ã€ŠImmortal of the Agesã€‹


 Chapter 001 - Creator Immortal

    <h4>Chapter 001 - Creator Immortal</h4>

    "Yun Xiao, your actions are inexcusable!" A furious roar swept through the imperial city, shaking the walls of the imperial pce. "As the Lord of this nation, how can you collude with demons to harm your people?!"

    The owner of the voice was a young man in a sword robe. Beneath his feet, a sword wrapped in an immortal aura cut through the air as he flew over the capital''s expanse. "Fear not, citizens! An Immortal has arrived! I will save you and exact justice on your behalf!"

    At that, countless citizens wept and knelt, theirmentations filling the air. For the imperial capital had beenpletely overrun with serpents. They bit and attacked themon folk, inflicting their venom on countless unfortunate souls. Many died on the spot, the ground flowing with their blood and their corpses littering the streets.

    "A Sword Immortal?" Amidst the writhing mass of snakes was a youth in a white robe adorned with dragons, battling a particrly fearsome serpent demon. He was none other than the young monarch of Cloud Nation, Yun Xiao. On this very day, he was to crown his Empress.

    But the day that should have been filled with joy and celebration started off with a series of strange events. First, the Prime Minister''s daughter Jiang Yue mysteriously disappeared. Then, millions of venomous snakes surged out from the waterways throughout the imperial capital and started attacking themon folk, including a particrly malevolent century-old snake demon.

    Yun Xiao immediately led his imperial guards into battle against the snake demon and its brood. But just as victory seemed certain, the arrival of this so-called Sword Immortalplicated matters.

    "He''s wrong," Yun Xiao cried out. "Did he seriously just say that I''m behind this mess? That I''ve been working together with this demon to harm my own people!?" Feeling deeply wronged, his eyes shed with a mixture of confusion and defiance.

    A sudden sh of sword rays streaked down from the heavens. The cold, biting gleam pierced directly into the snake demon''s forehead, instantly obliterating it into a mist of blood and gore. The stter coated Yun Xiao in a shower of the creature''s ichor.

    "Damn, that was intense!" Yun Xiao muttered, awed by the sheer power he''d just witnessed. And he wasn''t alone in his astonishment. The officials and citizens of Cloud Nation looked on with a mixture of fear and reverence.

    "The snake demon''s gone! W-we''re saved! We''re saved!" "The Immortal''s power is amazing!"

    "Long live our saviour!

    ...

    A ripple of gratitude spread among the saved citizens, many of whom dropped to their knees in fervent thanks.

    Suddenly, a booming voice echoed. "Yun Xiao!"

    Before Yun Xiao could register what was happening, the Sword Immortal appeared right above him. The Sword Immortal''s brow was furrowed in cold disdain, and the aura from his sword swirled domineeringly. Just the gust from his de left bloody gashes on Yun Xiao.

    "You rule this nation and yet harbor monsters that harm your own people. You will answer for this!" The Sword Immortal''s piercing gaze was unwavering as he addressed Yun Xiao.

    "What the...?" Yun Xiao started, but was quickly interrupted by a chorus of voices.

    "He raised that snake demon? Our Emperor?"

    "If the Sword Immortal saw it, it must be true!"

    "I can''t believe it... How can he betray us like this...!?"

    ...

    Shocked murmurs rippled through the crowd.

    From the depths of the pce, Cloud Nation''s Prime Minister Jiang Shang emerged, fury evident on his face. Pointing at Yun Xiao, he roared, "Yun Xiao, you absolute fool! The people look up to you as their Lord, yet you''re so blind and reckless, endangering countless lives!"

    He copsed to his knees, tears streaming down his face. "My former Emperor! My guidance has failed, allowing the Young Lord to stray andmit such grave mistakes. This mess is my sin as well!"

    At once, all the me appeared to be pinned on Yun Xiao. Each usation struck at his heart one after the other like heavy blows. "Sword Immortal!" He gritted his teeth and shouted. "Grant me a moment to defend my honor! I''ve had nothing to do with this snake demon..."

    Before he could finish, the Sword Immortal interrupted him with a cold sneer. "Silence! My perception spans the heavens. Your sins areid bare for all to see. No more excuses. Today, I shall serve justice in the name of the heavens and send you to hell!"

    Yun Xiao staggered back, disbelief and fury evident in his bloodshot eyes. "Perception spans the heavens? That might fool themon folk, but you''re just another Sword Cultivator! I bet this whole mess with the snake demon was your doing all along! We''ve never even met before, so why the hell are you setting me up!? Your sect would have you locked up if they found out!"

    Themon folk saw these sword wielding cultivators as Immortals, blindly trusting and worshiping them. But Yun Xiao wasn''t easily fooled. He knew these <i>Immortals</i> were nothing more than wannabes ying god.

    "Yun Xiao, shut it!" an official bellowed.

    "You''ve gone mad! Speaking like that about the Immortal?" another shouted.

    "This is thest straw. He''s gonna get us all cursed," a woman cried from the crowd.

    ...

    The collective anger from the onlookers grew louder, their disdain for Yun Xiao palpable.

    The Sword Cultivator saw the turmoil andnded right in front of Yun Xiao, his eyes filled with mockery. "Hear that?" he said with a chuckle. "For bugs like you, I might as well be an Immortal! Ye Guying, that''s my name! Remember it or don''t. Doesn''t matter. For today you''ll be dying at my hands!" Without another word, his eyes narrowed and he jabbed a sword-like finger at Yun Xiao, aiming straight for his forehead. He was really going to kill Yun Xiao.

    "Wait!" A woman''s voice pierced the tension. The crowd''s gaze shifted to a stunning woman with fair skin, moving elegantly toward them. It was Jiang Yue, the prime minister''s daughter. She was supposed to be crowned Empress this day, but she had disappeared at dawn.

    "Lil Yue! Stay back!" Yun Xiao''s voice wavered, concern evident. They had grown up together. Studied and trained together. Thest thing he wanted was for her to be entangled in this mess. Today, a cultivator intended to end his life. What could a mere mortal like Jiang Yue possibly do?

    But to Yun Xiao''s shock, Jiang Yue breezed past him and stood by Ye Guying''s side. They obviously knew each other.

    "Y-you two?" Yun Xiao''s voice faltered.

    "Yun Xiao, I didn''te here for you," Jiang Yue''s voice held an icy detachment. "In fact, today''s little assassination attempt? That was my idea."

    "You want me dead?" Yun Xiao felt like he had been struck by lightning.

    "Yes."

    "But why?" His eyes zed, a mix of anger and disbelief. He had always been kind to the Jiang family and especially to her.

    "Because of this." Jiang Yue raised her hand, showcasing a shimmering silver sword, about three inches long, formed of pure energy. As the sword hovered above her palm, it emitted a chilling aura. Its presence caused the temperature around the imperial pce to plummet and the onlookers to shiver.

    "Sword Soul!" Yun Xiao''s eyes widened.

    Jiang Yue smirked, "Impressive. You know of it. Yes, I''ve awakened the Ice Moon Sword Soul in the Comet grade!"

    Yun Xiao had heard of this innate Sword Soul before, even yearned for it. Cultivators not only cultivated the magic power within their Dantians but also their Sword Souls, creating a dual-power structure. The Dantian was the source of power, and the Sword Soul was the weapon to channel it through!

    Amon saying in this world was that the awakening of a Sword Soul would open up a myriad of roads! Naturally, this meant Jiang Yue''s future prospects were boundless!

    Entranced by her own Ice Moon Sword Soul, Jiang Yue said, "Soon, Brother Ye will introduce me to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. I''ll rise above as an Immortal, while you''ll remain a mere mortal. It''s only natural that our paths will diverge. That includes our engagement.

    "In the future,moners like you shall prostrate themselves before me with reverence!" she added with a hint of arrogance. Her gaze at Ye Guying held dreams of a grand future.

    "Are you out of your mind?" Yun Xiao spat, his anger palpable. "Fine, you have the talent, go cultivate. I don¡¯t need you. But why drag so many innocent people into your scheme?"

    A tragedy had befallen the people of Cloud Nation. Countless lives had been imed by the treacherous snakes, and Yun Xiao, as their ruler, felt each death as an arrow through his own heart.

    "There was a reason for it," Jiang Yue began, pointing towards a distant figure, Prime Minister Jiang Shang. "Brother Ye here tells me that those born into imperial families receive preferential treatment when they enter the sects. So, I thought it¡¯d be a good idea to have my father be the ruler of the Cloud Nation. That way, not only would I have you out of my way, but I''ll also have your name and legacy dragged through the mud!

    "Out with the old, and in with the new! What better excuse for a change in dynasties?" she added with a cold smirk. Her father Jiang Shang would seize the throne to be Emperor. And she? She would be the princess. A princess would be quite popr in a sect. But a married Empress? That would not be the case. Another reason why Yun Xiao had to go.

    She wasn''t concerned about her exchange with Yun Xiao being overheard by others. After all, Ye Guying was a disciple from a powerful sect and had his ways of ensuring their conversation remained private.

    "To bring down a mere mortal Emperor like you? Child''s y for a cultivator," Jiang Yue said, her voice dripping with arrogance. She continued, "From this day forth, thend under your feet will be known as the Jiang Nation, protected by the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Your Yun family¡¯s 500-year reign ends here. Now, ournd will thrive under my protection. Just ept your fate."

    Jiang Yue folded her arms, her demeanor even colder. "Even before I awakened this Sword Soul, ever since we were children, I already knew I was destined for greater! Now that I''ve stepped onto the path of bing an Immortal, I¡¯m far above and beyond the likes of you!"

    Yun Xiao''sugh was bitter, tinged with rage. "Under your protection? You, an Immortal? You lot, with all your petty lies and evil schemes, dare to call yourselves that? Hahahaha!"

    Ye Guying scoffed. "Why are we even entertaining the thoughts of a mere mortal on the subject of Immortals?"

    "Fine, enough talk. Brother Ye, end him." Jiang Yue said, her patience wearing thin.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes zed with defiance. "Even if I never be Immortal in this life, you two are nothing more than scum who abuse their power and harm innocent lives. You might have your ways now, but the path you''re on? It¡¯ll be your undoing. Mark my words. You''ll meet your own miserable deaths one day! My only regret is not being the one to bring you both down in honor of the Cloud Nation''s people."

    "Silence!" Ye Guying snapped, his face twisting in anger. "You''re but a speck in the grand scheme of things, yet you speak of the path of Immortals? A mortal like you knows nothing about cultivation or the taboos!"

    "Even a fleeting insect can traverse vast oceans and skies. Why can''t I, a man, understand the ways of the Immortal?" Yun Xiao smirked boldly in defiance.

    Ye Guyingughed scornfully, "Then enlighten me. What does it mean to be Immortal?"

    Holding his sword, Yun Xiao stood firm atop the remains of the snake demon, his gaze fiery, and his spirit unyielding. "To give life for the people, to have a heart aligned with the world. That is what it means to be an Immortal!"

    Yun Xiao knew he was no match for Ye Guying. But in that moment, with sword in hand and determination in his heart, he stepped over the corpses of the serpents and lunged toward Ye Guying, shouting, "To vanquish demons, to bless humanity, to protect the ways of Heaven, that is the essence of Immortality!"

    The atmosphere grew tense as Yun Xiao¡¯s sword rays billowed forth like roaring waves, drawing gasps from onlookers.

    Ye Guying, amused by the audacity of this mortal before him, retorted, "Let me show you what it truly means to be Immortal. With one strike, I''ll end you. That''s what it means to be an Immortal." With but a flick of his finger, his Sword Soul pierced through Yun Xiao''s forehead. The once fiery and defiant ruler came to an abrupt halt, his stance frozen in the final act of defiance. Even as the lifeblood drained from his wound, Yun Xiao''s eyes remained fixed on the duo, an eternal testament to his undying spirit. The fury in his eyes burned like a curse that wouldn''t fade with time.

    "Did you fancy yourself the hero? Thinking you''d alwayse out on top? Thinking the world didn''t see your worth ''cause you were young?" Ye Guying chuckled. Yet after death, there was something in Yun Xiao''s gaze that Ye Guying couldn''t face. After the confrontation, he and Jiang Yue departed the scene.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Times changed in the Cloud Nation. Jiang Shang ascended to the throne, leaving Yun Xiao''s name and legacy tarnished in the annals of history.

    What''s an Immortal anyway? And what''s this so-called path to it? After that fatal thrust through his head, Yun Xiao grappled with these questions over and over. They say when you die, the soul sticks around. And Yun Xiao wasn''t about to just let go. He began the martial path at six, opened his meridians by eight. And by twelve, everyone was calling him the Cloud Nation''s prodigy. At fifteen, nobody could touch him. But his world was so small, limited. Because Ye Guying hailed from a higher realm, Yun Xiao''s hard work and dreams were all rendered insignificant.

    "If I got another shot at this, I''d go all in, trying to reach that Immortal level." Yun Xiao mused. When death took him, weirdly, his determination amped up, whisking his soul through the cosmos. "Where the heck am I going?"

    His fragmented soul seemed to drift in a void, the world shrinking in his view. Suddenly, he saw an astonishing sight. Thend where he lived for sixteen years looked from afar like an endless graveyard. There, a massive tombstone, surrounded by an Immortal mist, stood like a pir holding up the sky and grounding the earth. And beneath this gigantic cemetery was an ancient, colossal bronze coffin. As it floated in empty space, it appeared to be propping up thend above, casting a malevolent aura which overflowed into the void like a shimmering green sea.

    "Is this what happens when you die? Some sort of trippy dream?" Yun Xiao thought, feeling more than a little freaked out. Caught up in his thoughts, he almost missed that he was being yanked underground, a terrifying force pulling him into that very ancient bronze coffin.

    A deafening roar filled his ears, and as he entered the coffin, a majestic voice from eons past resonated, "This coffin holds the sky and grounds the underworld, refining countless souls throughout the ages. It swallows the highest realms and gives birth to a myriad of worlds, where only one path to the Creator Immortal is cultivated!"

 Chapter 002 - Ancient Bronze Coffin!

    <h4>Chapter 002 - Ancient Bronze Coffin!</h4>

    ¡°Is this the Creator Immortal?¡± Yun Xiao found himself gasping, his spirit dragged into the confines of the coffin. Surrounding him was an inky, eerie fog, reminiscent of the underworld.

    "Good god! It''s freaking massive!" He eximed, unable to contain his surprise. Before himy a colossal human-like corpse, its enormity almost beyondprehension. The corpse''s eyes were as deep as the underworld itself, its mouth gaping like the River of Oblivion. Its hair snaked around like ancient dragons, and its body resembled a range of towering mountains.

    "What divine being rests here?" But before Yun Xiao could fathom an answer, a maic force emanated from the body, dragging his spirit inside. A deep hum resonated, and for a split moment, he felt alive again.

    "I''ve been resurrected using this corpse!" Opening his eyes, Yun Xiao felt as though the world had shrunk beneath this vast immortal body. But then realization struck him.

    "It''s... it''s just skin!" He stammered, utterly baffled. Inside, he found no bones, no blood, no organs¡ªjust an empty void. The only thing filling the colossal skin was a thick, demonic fog, swirling with ancient, grotesque insects, venomous snakes, and ghostly apparitions. They roamed freely, biting and shrieking in eerie harmony, sending chills down Yun Xiao''s spine.

    "Did these pests consume this Immortal''s body, leaving only the skin?" Yun Xiao wondered. "Damn! What''s the point of a resurrection like this?" As if responding to his thoughts, the skin of the Immortal trembled, and shimmering runes arose, covering the surface like a legion of celestial soldiers charging across a battlefield.

    Amidst the blur, Yun Xiao heard timeless cries. "Creator Immortal, the tyrant! The Six Ancestral Gods sacrificed the three thousand immortal realms and ignited the blood of countless beings to imprison him in Kunlun''s Inferno!"

    While more shouts followed, Yun Xiao''s ears rang so intensely that he could hardly make them out. Still, he could sense a deep-rooted anger, one that originated from the depths of the Immortal. "I bear the coffin, gave life to Heaven and Earth, created the Six Paths, and birthed mankind! But on the day of my grand achievement, these vermin dare devour me?"

    Lastly, a cold, disdainfulughter echoed, "The day the Divine Pir vanishes will be the day of the Creator Immortal¡¯s revival! You lowly beings of the Six Realms, doom awaits you." As the voice faded, the Immortal''s skin erupted in blinding luminescence, illuminating the entire bronze coffin.

    "My body... it''s shrinking!" Yun Xiao murmured, sensing the giant skin copsing and retracting around him. Blinding radiance filled his vision! From the endless form of the Immortal, a sphere of light no more than eight feet in diameter solidified, and a hum echoed through the void.

    From within this luminescence, a new body emerged, strikingly simr to Yun Xiao''s previous form. His skin was smooth and jade-like, facial features sharp and pronounced, eyes reminiscent of a bright moon, and hair cascading like a waterfall. He was unmistakably more handsome than before.

    "Hahaha! I live again! Yun Xiao is back!" The vast expanse of the Immortal''s skin had condensed into flesh, bone, blood, and organs. It was small, yetplete. ncing at his pristine hands and feet, the slender fingers, the whiteplexion... he suddenly panicked, quickly reaching down to check.

    "Oh good, I''m still a man down there! And more so than before," Yun Xiao sighed in relief, beginning to acquaint himself with his renewed form. "My Dantian... The energy, it''s gone?" He had perfected his martial arts in his old body. This new body, though, felt like a wless, uncut gem. "I might have to start training from scratch, but at least I''m alive..."

    Suddenly, an overwhelming aura of terror washed over Yun Xiao. "What is that?" His eyes widened in horror. Ten colossal objects stood side by side, as far as his eyes could see. "Coffins within the coffin?" Sure enough, these imposing ancient structures were ten nested coffins. Each one, vast like andscape, bore distinct colors. The closest to Yun Xiao was a pale one with two profound characters etched on it.

    ¡ªBury the Heavens!

    These characters seemed to be written in blue blood, each stroke representing a vast river for Yun Xiao.

    A deafening roar followed. Then, the next moment, the pale coffin with ''Bury the Heavens'' inscribed on it trembled and exploded right before his eyes, obliterating everything. A tidal wave of blue light swallowed Yun Xiao in an instant. Once the coffin disintegrated, a cerulean coloured lotus flower bloomed from its remnants, staining his vision.

    "Such a massive flower," Yun Xiao whispered, heart pounding in his chest. With a resonant hum, the lotus ascended, and Yun Xiao felt his spirit being pulled along with it, rushing out of the ancient bronze coffin and soaring over endlessnds. Suddenly, rity greeted his eyes.

    In a momentary daze, Yun Xiao felt he stood before the monolithic gravestone that supported the continent he lived in. Surrounded by an ethereal mist, it seemed to hold up the heavens and pin down the earth. Before his eyes, the cerulean lotus crashed into the gravestone, painting it in the same otherworldly blue. The lotus and the gravestone became one, transforming into a colossal azure sword that reached out to the heavens and anchored the underworld.

    A hum resonated. Suddenly, Yun Xiao found himself back in his body, disoriented and dizzy. Looking down, a brilliant blue light enveloped him. This pristine body seemed to undergo a mysterious transformation.

    "What is this..." From his outstretched palm, a cerulean de of light, about three inches long, materialized. "I have a Sword Soul!" On closer inspection, he saw a tiny cerulean lotus bud encapsted within this Sword Soul.

    "Could the blue lotus from that smaller coffin and the massive gravestone outside be connected to this Sword Soul?" His mind nked, trying to piece together the unimaginable events. He pondered on the remaining nine coffins inside the primordial bronze sarcophagus. "What mysteries lie within them?"

    The mere presence of the second, a majestic purple coffin exuding an ancient chilling aura, incited a primordial dread within him. It bore the name ''Prison Warden''.

    Rumbles echoed. And as Yun Xiao''s gaze lingered on it, the coffin seemed to react, vibrating with a resonance that evoked the image of a monstrous ancient beast, its attention unwaveringly fixed on him.

    "What? Are you going to be my Sword Soul too?" With all the peculiarities he''d witnessed today, Yun Xiao''s fear had seemingly faded.

    Humming resonated. The purple coffin seemed to understand his words and was visibly displeased. <i>BOOM! </i>Suddenly, it lunged at him. Given its enormity, it was akin to ten thousand mountains colliding with a mosquito.

    "Ugh, damn..." Yun Xiao, upon impact, felt the world spinning and lost consciousness. Hisst thought before the darkness consumed him was contemtion. "Did I really reincarnate through the body of the Immortal, or is all of this just an absurd dream conjured at the moment of my soul''s dispersion?"

    In this dreamlike state, Yun Xiao saw a world formed of graves, an ancient bronze coffin, the Creator Immortal, a cerulean lotus, a titanic gravestone, and ten mysterious smaller coffins... Whispering echoes surrounded him. Time felt irrelevant.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao awakened! In the pitch-ck darkness, his gaze was arrested by a sky freckled with countless twinkling stars. "Could this be... the realm of the Cloud Nation? Near the Imperial Capital?"

    Indeed, the grandeur of the Imperial Capital of Cloud Nation loomed close by.

    "By all that''s good and mighty... I''ve truly been reborn." Peering into a nearby reflective pond, Yun Xiao was met with the image of his renewed self. "My talent in cultivation too... It''s increased by more than tenfold!"

    Yun Xiao marveled, "And just the strength of my flesh and bone rivals the might I possessed at the peak of my martial prowess." He gave a sturdy tree, more than a foot in diameter, a solid punch, and lo and behold, it toppled. "But the true marvel... I now possess a Sword Soul."

    With a focus of intent, a luminous blue Sword Soul materialized from his fingertips. "Jiang Yue''s Ice Moon Sword Soul is at the Comet grade. So, what grade would mine be?"

    A sudden realization struck Yun Xiao, and his gaze darted to the north. "The Divine Pir... It vanished?"

    In the heart of the Divine Continent, the vastnd where Yun Xiao grew up, stood a majestic pir that was fabled to connect to endless celestial realms above and theherworld below. A foundation of countless worldly realms, this pir had remained an enigma since time immemorial. Despite many brave souls seeking its pinnacle, none returned.

    This colossal pir, visible from every corner of thend due to its sheer size, had now disappeared. Yun Xiao had barely roused from his slumber when he heard rmed cries echoing from the Imperial Capital.

    "It seems everyone is abuzz about the missing pir! That monumental pir... It must''ve been the very gravestone I witnessed!" Yun Xiao mused. "So, the blue lotus from the smaller coffin and the Divine Pir... did the two truly form my Sword Soul?"

    The thought shook Yun Xiao to his core. "It couldn¡¯t be. The power of such a Sword Soul would be immense, wouldn¡¯t it?" For the time being, he didn¡¯t perceive the exaggerated might of his Sword Soul. It looked fairlymonce. After all, the potency of a Sword Soulrgely depended on one¡¯s intrinsic energy.

    Yun Xiao''s Dantian felt utterly empty. And he remembered within the Sword Soul, the blue lotus was but a budding flower in its nascent state. "Since you came from the Bury the Heavens coffin, I''ll call you the <i>Heaven Burial Sword Soul</i>!"

    He stood still, a deep determination glinting in his eyes. With the Sword Soul, he could continue his journey of cultivation. "But who brought me back to the Cloud Nation?"

    A sensation drew Yun Xiao''s gaze downward, where he found a small, ck bronze brick. He picked it up and examined it closely, trying to discern its significance.

    "Well, ain''t this something! The ancient bronze coffin''s gone and shrunk to the size of a trinket?" Yun Xiao mused. "If this here''s the outeryer, does that mean the nine coffins inside are even tinier? I bet my return to the Cloud Nation has something to do with this tiny artifact.

    "And to think that with this coffin gone, the whole Divine Continent didn''t crumble to dust... What a mystery, that is." Not one to dawdle, Yun Xiao stashed the bronze brick in his pocket, thinking, "This brick''s got some heft. Makes a fine weapon, I''d wager." He failed to notice the two ghostly eyes on the lid of the coffin, which seemed to flicker ever so briefly.

    "Phew!" After a long, contemtive stare into the night, peace finally found a home in Yun Xiao''s heart. But peace was soon reced by memories of bitter betrayal. "Ye Guying, Jiang Yue... mark my words. I''vee back to settle the score," His eyes grew frosty as he gazed at the pce. "So, you two skedaddled back to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, leaving the Jiang Family to rob me of my nation?"

    That night, atop the city walls, Yun Xiao watched the imperial pce aglow with lights and merriment. After producing an Immortal and seizing the throne, the Jiang Family were clearly over the moon.

    "Celebrating the birth of their own Jiang Nation, while the blood of countless innocents still stains thend," Yun Xiao''s eyes zed with the fire of vengeance deep-rooted in his lineage. "Jiang Shang, you''ve gone from being an advisor to the emperor to sitting on the throne. Comfortable, are you?"

    Gripping his Sword Soul, Yun Xiao stormed the imperial pce. Inside, the entire Jiang Family was reveling in their newfound power. Thirty three people in total, all chatting and feasting.

    ¡°News about the pir disappearing got folks talkin'', ain''t it?"

    "Hahaha! Let them talk! Got nothing to do with us! We''re royalty now!"

    "Still, it sounds like an omen. Good or bad, I''m not sure..."

    ....

    Evidently, the disappearance of the Divine Pir was also the main topic of discussion.

    Amidst rounds of spirits, a rosy-cheeked Jiang Shang, d in royal garb, dered, "From today, our reign is unchallenged. With my daughter ascending to the heavens, all neighboring realms will bow down. We can expand our territory!"

    "Aye, what the Yun Dynasty couldn''t achieve, we''ll aplish! Our names will be sung for generations," Jiang Yue''s uncle added.

    "Amusing, ain''t it? The previous emperor wed just once, had but a single son, and then they up and left this world, leaving only Yun Xiao. That''s practically inviting extinction," Jiang Shang pped his thigh andughed.

    "All hail the Emperor!" The crowd roared inughter.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The mirth was abruptly interrupted by a figure in white, who leapt over the courtyard wall.

    "Who goes there!?" Theughter of the Jiang family came to a chilling halt.

    "Guards!" Jiang Yang, brother to Jiang Yue, abruptly rose, unsheathing his sword.

    "Assassin!" Chaos erupted within the courtyard.

    Yet, thepany of Jiang Shang remainedposed, their faces unchanged, stillughing.

    "Which of the Yun''s old guard is this?"

    "Who''d be foolish enough toe at a time like this?" "Guess we let a few bugs get away?"

    ...

    As their jests flowed, Yun Xiao was already before them. The courtyard guards, though, were nowhere in sight. Only then did they sense something amiss. The guards outside had fallen. However, they didn''t panic. After all, the Jiang Family held a proud lineage of martial artists. Jiang Shang himself ranked second in Yun Nation, surpassed only by Yun Xiao.

    "Jiang Yang! Seize the traitor!" Jiang Shangmanded, his face cold.

    "Let''s not kill him outright. Learn of his identity, then execute his entire family!" Jiang Yue''s mother said coldly. It was a move meant to strike fear into the heart of the nation.

    "Yes!" Jiang Yang sneered at the intruder. "Isn''t life good? Why seek death? I''ll grant you three moves..." Before he could finish, a blur of white was upon him. Yun Xiao made his move. With a swift blow, much like lightning, he struck Jiang Yang''s ribs.

    <i>CRUNCH!</i> Jiang Yang''s ribcage caved in, piercing his organs.

    "Ah!" His eyes bulged, blood spewing from his lips, copsing at Yun Xiao''s feet. "You ambushed me! How despicable..." His life ended there, at the pinnacle of his sess, his eyes filled with disbelief.

    Yun Xiao barely nced at him before seizing his long sword. "Who''s next to join him in death?" His eyes swept across the Jiang Family. A chillingugh from him made everyone present stand in fear.

    "My son!" The newly risen crown prince was gone in a sh. Jiang Shang and his wife''s eyes zed with fury. A celebratory banquet turned bloodbath.

    "Kill him!" In a fit of rage, Jiang Shang smashed his wine cup onto the floor.

    The Jiang Family always revered martial arts. Everyone, men and women, drew their weapons, surrounding Yun Xiao. Some readied to strike, while others shouted for the imperial guards.

    "A family of thirty-three? How quaint." Yun Xiao sneered, plunging into the crowd. His sword danced, a white phantom of death. Blood sprayed the air. His de spared none. Even Jiang Huai, once the great general of Yun Nation, bore a hole in his throat. With their renowned general felled by a single de, panic ensued, and it was only then true fear settled in.

    "Retreat!" With widened eyes, Jiang Shang challenged Yun Xiao, "Who are you? Don''t you know my daughter, Jiang Yue? She''s an Immortal from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect! If she learns of this, you''re dead ten times over!"

    "I know. I came for her family."

 Chapter 003 - On a Warpath to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect

    <h4>Chapter 003 - On a Warpath to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect</h4>

    "Run!" Jiang Shang, in a desperate panic, didn''t wait for his guards. He turned and fled with a mighty bellow. Screams echoed. The young and old of the Jiang Family, once lords anddies, now scuttled like frightened rabbits. Where they once danced on the graves of themon folk, now they scrambled in terror, wailing in despair.

    But no matter how fast they tried to escape, Yun Xiao''s ghostly de always found its mark. <i>Swish, swish!</i> With every thrust of his de, another of the Jiangs met their doom.

    "Brother! My son!" Jiang Shang turned back just in time to see the end of his dreams. His envisioned Jiang Dynasty reduced to mere remnants in mere moments. Bodies sprawled everywhere.

    In the heat of the moment, Jiang Shang cried, "Hold him off! I''ll find my daughter!" But without thinking twice, he shoved his wife into the path of the oing Yun Xiao. He hadn''t taken two steps before he saw his wife''s severed headnd in front of him. The horror of it left him pale and gasping.

    Jiang Shang fell to his knees, pleading, "Spare me! I''ll offer up all the wealth of the Jiang Nation!" But mercy was not on the menu that day. A swift sh left him incapacitated, wailing in agony.

    Yun Xiao seized him by the throat, lifting the former Prime Minister dressed in royal robes as if he were a mere child. The sheer terror in Jiang Shang''s eyes was palpable when they locked gazes.

    "Jiang Shang," Yun Xiao smirked, "Your daughter has a Sword Soul, does she? Well, look at this." From Yun Xiao''s right hand manifested a shimmering de of ethereal energy.

    "A Sword Soul! You''re one of those geniuses! A Sword Immortal!" Jiang Shang cried out, eyes swollen with tears, "Why? Why are you doing this? What did my family ever do to you?"

    Yun Xiao simply chuckled. Pointing to his face, he smirked, "Jiang Shang, you''ve forgotten me already? You''re wearing my robes, after all."

    Recognition dawned on Jiang Shang. The horror was palpable, akin to witnessing a nightmaree to life. "Yun Xiao! It''s you!" Blood oozed from his every orifice, his tongue quivering as he spoke.

    "You know what? I think I''ll test the might of my Sword Soul on you," Yun Xiao said. Holding his ethereal de that shimmered a ghostly blue, he pierced it just half an inch into Jiang Shang''s flesh. A sizzling sound was heard. To his fascination, the flesh at Jiang Shang''s neck vaporized into a bloody mist, being sucked into the de, leaving a deep festering wound.

    "Interesting... Heaven Burial looks pretty unassuming with its greenish glow. But it''s quite the deadly thing. It exists to drain the very essence of life. Be it beast or tree, all wither before its might," Yun Xiao said, recalling tales simr to the fabled Divine Pir.

    "Yun Xiao! It doesn''t matter if you''ve been reborn. With my daughter''s Sword Soul, she''ll destroy you again!" Jiang Shang cried out, his voice filled with agony and dread, reminiscent of a soul being dragged into the darkest depths of the underworld.

    "Destroy me?" Yun Xiao leaned close, whispering coldly, "After I''m finished with you, I''ll head to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect and gift them the same fate as yours." With a swift motion, Heaven Burial pierced through Jiang Shang''s throat.

    "Aagggh!" Jiang Shang wailed hisst, and his body disintegrated into a dark mist, being devoured by Yun Xiao''s de until there was nothing left. And so, the Jiang lineage was extinguished.

    "Cloud Nation. My nation..." Yun Xiao murmured from atop the citadel walls. He gazed at the city that stood for half a millennium. Today, he had eradicated the Jiangs, but he had no intention of staying. "Thisnd, now under the protection of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, should offer peace to its people even in the absence of the Jiangs.

    "To those who once called me the bane of Yun for disrespecting the spirits, know that it''s not your fault. A ruler must take responsibility for the ignorance of his subjects.

    "But remember," Yun Xiao solemnly dered, "Soon, I will return with the heads of Jiang Yue and Ye Guying. And on that day, you''ll understand that I had nothing to do with nurturing that serpent demon!

    "I''ll never back down! I''ll deliver death to the scum who deserve it. And no innocents will evere in harm''s way!" With that, he descended from the walls and vanished towards the north.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Three monthster, amidst the vast sky, Yun Xiao arrived at the grand gates of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. "So, this is the Immortal Sect, loftily standing above the mortal realm like the heavens."

    A distant shout reached his ears, "To ascend the Heavenly Path is to join the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. All neers line up."

    Ascending the Heavenly Path!

    Yun Xiao, having gathered information on his journey, knew that the path was a challenging trial. Only those gifted and powerful enough would be able to climb it and be epted as a disciple of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. As he ventured further, something caught his attention. Among the crowd of those being tested, he thought he saw a familiar figure¡ªJiang Yue.

    "She''s here trying for the Heavenly Path too?" With a sarcastic grin, Yun Xiao observed, "Hoping to astound everyone on the Heavenly Path with that Comet grade Sword Soul of yours? Dreaming of entering the Azure Spirit Sword Sect with your head held high?"

    In the midst of it all, Yun Xiao had changed his appearance, a secret he harbored. Both of them, just like Jiang Shang, would only recognize his true identity moments before their own demise. Jiang Yue remained oblivious to the fact that her very nightmare was standing right beside her.

    "Listen up!" Ahead of Yun Xiao, a woman dressed in red gracefully took her stand. Her skin was fair, her face rosy like peach blossoms. She moved with a grace thatmanded attention. Even though she radiated an air of elegance, she looked icy cold, particrly intimidating. "The test is simple and fair. The first ten to ascend the Heavenly Path will be inducted into the Azure Spirit Sword Sect and experience the freedom of the skies," she dered with chilling detachment. "The rest can leave."

    As she spoke, she swept her gaze over the crowd. Hundreds of the realm''s so-called martial prodigies dared not meet her icy stare. "This generation is one in a century''s luck!" she continued.

    "Why do you say so, Elder Yao?" A youth asked. Dressed in golden robes and adorned with a plethora of jewels, his appearance clearly pointed towards nobility.

    At the sight of him, the stern face of the beautiful woman softened into a gentle smile. "Because, the top three who ascend will be rewarded handsomely! The third ce gets a hundred-year-old demon bone. Second ce, a two hundred-year-old demon bone. And the first..." She paused for dramatic effect, a hint of envy shing in her eyes. Then, she raised her voice and said, "will be rewarded with a five-hundred-year-old demon bone!"

    The crowd erupted in excitement at her revtion.

    "Wasn''t it said before that only the first would get a reward, and even then, it was just a hundred-year-old demon bone?" Whispers spread like wildfire among the eager young hopefuls.

    The allure of the five-hundred-year-old demon bone was undeniably strong, being worth dozens of times that of a hundred-year-old demon bone. Why the sudden increase in the reward?

    "Five hundred years... Are we talking about the bones of a Demon King here?" Yun Xiao, taken aback by the revtion, felt an undeniable allure himself. "It''s said that demons spend their lives absorbing spiritual energy to forge their bones. Sword Immortals who can meld these demon bones into their Sword Souls can produce Sword Aura."

    The grade of a Sword Soul, like Jiang Yue''s Ice Moon Sword Soul, determined the Sword Soul''s bloodline, an aspect nearly immutable. But the Sword Aura of a Sword Soul could be enhanced by refining demon bones!

    The greater theyers of Sword Aura, the tougher and fiercer the Sword Soul bes. For Sword Cultivators, their spirit resided in their bodies, but their souly within their swords. If the Sword Soul shattered, the person''s soul would disperse, essentially rendering them half-dead. This was why theyers of Sword Aura were of paramount importance.

    "A lower-grade Sword Soul, if it possesses enoughyers of Sword Aura, might just shatter a higher-grade Sword Soul with feweryers," murmured Yun Xiao. He was unsure about the origins and functionality of his own Heaven Burial Sword Soul. "Maybe, in this Sword Cultivator sect, I might just find the key to understanding it."

    This was his motive to approach Azure Spirit.

    "Silence! The Heavenly Path opens in a quarter hour!" The crowd''s animated chatter continued until Elder Yao''s frosty gaze swept over them, silencing the excited whispers instantly. The palpable tension made many a heart race.

    The path to cultivation, the five-hundred-year-old demon bone... their futures, their fates, ally right beneath their feet. Who would ascend to the heavens, and who would plunge into the abyss?

    After making the announcement, Elder Yao, with a graceful twist of her waist, turned and entered a maple grove. From the crowd, two figures followed her¡ªthe youth who had previously asked a question and Jiang Yue.

    Jiang Yue looked striking, donning a snow-white robe embroidered with images of mist and clouds. Her hair was neatly tied up, adding a touch of elegance to her appearance. Over thest three months, her skills had improved exponentially, hinting at the guidance of a great master to prepare her for the Heavenly Path.

    The trio had barely walked a few steps when they noticed a man standing under a maple tree ahead of them. With raven-ck hair and stark white eyebrows, he stood with an air of indifference. It was Ye Guying.

    "Swordking," greeted Elder Yao. Her usually icy demeanor melted away, reced by a warm, beautiful smile upon seeing him.

    Turning to face them, Ye Guying said, "Thank you for making the arrangements for the demon bone, Elder Yao."

    "It''s an honor to be of service to the Swordking," she replied, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

    Ye Guying, ustomed to such ttery, merely nodded in acknowledgment.

    "By the way..." Elder Yao asked with a sycophantic tone, "Would you prefer your younger brother to im the top position, or this youngdy?"

    "Her, first ce," Ye GuYing responded, pointing towards Jiang Yue.

    Elder Yao''s eyes widened in disbelief. The young boy, known as Ye Guao, was Ye Guying''s own younger brother. Born with a Meteor grade Sword Soul, he began his cultivation at the age of ten and had broken through the Mortal Martial Realm by thirteen.

    It was baffling to Elder Yao that Ye Guying, despite personally offering the coveted five-hundred-year-old demon bone as a reward, would not prioritize his own brother but instead an unfamiliar young girl.

    "Her name is Jiang Yue, born with a Comet grade Sword Soul," Ye Guying stated, his usually stern gaze softening slightly as he looked at Jiang Yue.

    Jiang Yue met his gaze, her eyes lowered modestly, cheeks faintly blushing.

    Elder Yao looked at Jiang Yue in astonishment, her red lips quivering, words failing her. A Comet grade Sword Soul!

    For a mortal to naturally possess a Sword Soul was already a rarity in itself. Most among the hundred participants possessed Sword Souls that weren''t rare enough to be graded, but they were still eligible to embark on the path of cultivation.

    Someone like Ye Guao, with his Meteor grade Sword Soul, was considered a rare talent with boundless potential. But a higher-ranked Comet grade? Elder Yao could only describe it with one term. A gift from the heavens!

    "Miss Jiang, your potential is boundless, truly enviable," she remarked. Previously, she''d been indifferent towards Jiang Yue, but now, her eyes were warm with admiration.

    "In the days toe, I''ll need your guidance, Elder Yao," Jiang Yue replied courteously.

    Mountains, clouds, mastering the heavens with the sword¡ªthis was the Immortal path she dreamt of. Today was her most significant day, the culmination of three months of rigorous training under Ye Guying''s guidance. Today, she aimed to astonish the world.

    "I will do everything in my power to secure first ce, Senior Brother Ye," she promised.

    Clearly, her exceptional talents had given her a hint of pride. Having initiated her path with a Comet grade Sword Soul, these three months had allowed her to surpass all expectations.

    "For you, my brother gave up a five-hundred-year-old demon bone to the sect. He truly favors you," the young boy, Ye Guao,mented with a hint of jealousy.

    "Silence," Ye Guying shot him a sharp nce.

    Ye Guao immediately recoiled.

    "I am deeply grateful for your generosity, Senior Brother Ye," Jiang Yue said, her eyes brimming with gratitude. She understood that the demon bone was initially a gift for Ye Guying from the sect. However, he couldn''t simply hand it over; it had to be offered as a reward for the Heavenly Path trial.

    If she managed to secure the demon bone and im the glory of the first position, it would be a double win for her. With her pure royal lineage, she was well-poised for sess. As for Elder Yao, she was but a safety.

    "I''ll settle for second, if she gets first. Elder Yao, I don''t need your favor," Ye Guao dered defiantly, living up to his name''s meaning. Proud and aloof.

    "Don''t get too ahead of yourself. There are eighteen others who have opened a Dragon Spring stage like you. If you embarrass me, never set foot in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect again," Ye Guying warned sternly.

    "I understand," Ye Guao responded, clenching his fists, even more determined.

    The Dragon Spring Realm marked the beginning of one''s cultivation journey. Ye Guao had his brother''s guidance, breaking through to this stage at the age of thirteen. However, Jiang Yue had also achieved this stage in three months thanks to the resources bestowed to her by Ye Guying.

    As the conversation unfolded, it was almost time for the trial to begin.

    "Swordking, are you nning to venture into the Sea of Swords to inherit the Azure Kite?" Elder Yao asked, her voice quivering as she looked up at him.

    "Yes," Ye Guying nodded, his eyes stormy with a longing he''d harbored for two decades.

    "If you seed, all sword cultivators in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect will look up to you with pride," Elder Yao dered, breathing deeply, her eyes filled with reverence and admiration.

    The Swordking crowned at just twenty! To the disciples of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Ye Guying was regarded with god-like reverence. And now, he was poised to challenge the vast Sea of Swords, pushing the boundaries of possibility. Yao Qingqian found herself with no option but to show him respect.

    "Prepare for the Heavenly Path trial." She led both Jiang Yue and Ye Guao back into the crowd.

    By the time the group rejoined their party, over a hundred young cultivators were already assembled, prepared for the trial ahead. They all knew of Ye Guao''s influential connections and treated him with a mix of respect and apprehension. No one dared to approach or provoke him.

    On returning, Jiang Yue stood aloof, her gaze cold and indifferent. To her, none of these so-called martial prodigies were worth her attention. Then, suddenly, she noticed a young man in white standing behind her. "Can there truly be someone so extraordinarily handsome in this world?" A rare flutter stirred in Jiang Yue''s heart.

    The youth''s presence was maic. Although he was in a corner, his radiance made the others seem dull byparison. d in white, he didn''t look like an ordinary being but rather a celestial from ancient tales.

    Compelled by an inexplicable impulse, Jiang Yue approached him and couldn''t help but ask, "What is your name?"

 Chapter 004 - Seeds of Creation!

    <h4>Chapter 004 - Seeds of Creation!</h4>

    "Me? I''m Yun Xiao," the young man replied, his gaze frosty as he met her eyes.

    "Xiao... as in the word for leisurely? Is that the meaning of your name?" Jiang Xue asked, a hint of jestcing her voice. There was something about the name that made her feel like she''d just swallowed a bug.

    "Spot on, that''s exactly the case," Yun Xiao responded with a nod. Figures. Names might be many, but faces? Not as much. After resurrecting using the Immortal''s remains and changing bodies, she couldn''t recognize him anymore.

    "...It¡¯s a nice name, I guess." A bit disheartened, Jiang Xue returned to Ye Guao''s side.

    "Got a little crush on him?" Ye Guao shot a nce at Yun Xiao.

    "Don''t be ridiculous!" Jiang Xue retorted, her voice cold.

    "I don¡¯t get your taste. He seems all sh and no substance. He''s not even a tenth as good-looking as my brother!" Ye Guao sneered.

    "Just because I asked about him doesn¡¯t mean you always have topare him or anyone else with your brother," Jiang Xue retorted exasperatedly.

    "Hey, I know you''re fond of my brother. Rx. I''m just joking." Ye Guao shrugged, but as his eyes settled back on Yun Xiao, he silently thought, <i>No kidding though, he really is handsome. </i>He noticed that almost all the young women present were stealing nces at Yun Xiao.

    Such beauty, it was said, was only to be found in the heavens. How often did the mortal realm get to witness it? In this world, only the most breathtaking of beauties usually garnered such attention. Yun Xiao was an exception. It couldn''t be helped. He had the appearance blessed by fate. A beauty that transcended gender.

    "He probably can''t even take a punch. Just wait until he faces me. I''ll unleash my Golden Star Sword Soul and show him what true strength feels like!" Ye Guao murmured with a smirk.

    At that moment, Elder Yao announced, "The Heavenly Path Trial begins!" Hundreds of eager young individuals, bursting with energy, rushed forward to take on the challenge. Without another word, Jiang Xue sped away.

    Yun Xiao looked up. Above, the path was shrouded in dark mist and heavy tree shadows¡ªan excellent battlefield. "Jiang Yue, your family members are all waving at you from the pits of the underworld!." A glint of malicious intent shed in his eyes as he pursued her into the forest. Soon, enveloping mists surrounded him.

    As Yun Xiao was about to chase after Jiang Xue, suddenly... A strange sensation throbbed in his chest, as if something was moving inside. "What the hell is that?" he jolted. All he remembered having on him was therge bronze brick resembling a coffin lid. Where on earth did this lively creaturee from? And it felt... fuzzy?

    Before he could even process what was going on, a gruff, coarse, and raspy voice emerged from his chest, "Agoo-goo! Creator! Baby''s thirsty! Gimme milk!"

    <i>Creator? Milk? It wants milk? </i>Panicking, Yun Xiao hastily reached into his robes. His hand grabbed onto something soft and pliable, pulling it out. "Huhhh???" To his astonishment, it was a small creature! Covered in silky ck fur, it looked neither like a cat nor a dog. Two tiny horns protruded from its head, and a pair of brilliant blue eyes shone like the starry night sky.

    "What the hell are you?" Yun Xiao eximed, gripping the creature by its nape.

    "I''m your father!" the tiny ck creature retorted defiantly, its limbs iling and eyes ring at Yun Xiao. Its voice was high-pitched and childlike, but its words were nothing short of audacious.

    "That can''t be..." Yun Xiao distinctly recalled the cry for milk being in a gruff, raspy voice. Yet, this creature was so... endearing. Then it hit him. The ancient bronze coffin from his chest appeared to be missing.

    "Are you that bronze coffin?" Yun Xiao asked, incredulous.

    "Your sister''s a coffin!" the creature retorted, before lowering its head toward its chest, yelling, "Red Moon,e out!"

    "Red Moon?" Yun Xiao questioned, peering at its chest. What he witnessed next was utterly terrifying. <i>Rip! </i>The creature''s chest abruptly split open, revealing a massive maw filled with razor-sharp teeth. Within its fur, a pair of blood-red eyes glowered. "Agoo! And I''m your second father!" From the gaping mouth shot out a long, spiky tongue.

    "Holy shit!" Yun Xiao stood there, frozen in disbelief. This was the source of that raspy voice! One beast, two faces? One on its head. Another on its chest? And the one on its head, with those deep blue eyes and cute voice, was referring to itself as the elder? A crimson maw, with eyes burning like moltenva, in the center of the chest of such a small creature, and it referred to itself as a baby?

    "What in zes?!" Yun Xiao eximed. Before he could gather his wits, the beast''s scarlet eyes gleamed ominously, lunging at him with an eager shout, "So hungry! Milk!"

    "Back off!" Yun Xiao retorted, pushing it away. "I''m a man. I ain¡¯t got milk!" Sure, jokes aside, even for a man, wouldn¡¯t that gaping mouth gnawing at his chest lead to a bloody mess?

    "So, it''s called Red Moon And you?" Yun Xiao red at the creature''s head.

    "Blue Star!" The face atop the creature''s head replied, eyes gleaming like a serene blue gxy. No doubt, the name Blue Star came from those deep blue eyes. The monstrous mouth on its chest, shaped like a crescent blood moon, was probably why the second head was called Red Moon.

    "Boiling it down... these two consciousnesses share one body?" Yun Xiao realized with a spark of insight. In essence, they were essentially a two-headed beast.

    "So, you''re the coffin lid, and it''s the body?" Yun Xiao was still convinced that this creature was linked to that bronze coffin.

    "Didn¡¯t expect you to have a shred of wit about you," Blue Star smirked.

    <i>Quite the cheeky creature. </i>Yun Xiao was speechless. But there was another thought in his mind. He could hardly believe that the massive ancient bronze coffin had be this little ck creature.

    "You called me Creator? Why?" Yun Xiao asked, brow furrowed in confusion.

    "Creator means the Creator Immortal... which means you," Blue Star''''s deep blue eyes examined him thoroughly.

    "Yes, Creator!" Red Moon interjected, seemingly disappointed from not finding milk and now busying itself with gnawing on some roots.

    "What¡¯s the Creator Immortal?" Yun Xiao asked?

    "The one who feeds the baby milk," Red Moon piped up eagerly.

    "Will you quit interrupting!" Blue Star, with a petite paw, pped at the bloodshot eye on its own chest.

    "You hit me? I¡¯ll bite you!" Red Moon protested, its voice dripping with affront.

    The two, sharing the same body, began to quarrel and scuffle before Yun Xiao, moving as though they wereing apart at the seams, akin to a spirit split in twain...

    "Good grief! Give me a break and stop your squabbling!" Yun Xiao groaned, his hand covering his face in exasperation.

    The little dark creature halted, as though recalling an important matter.

    "Creator,e! We have to find the Seed of Creation," Blue Star announced.

    "Seed of Creation?" Yun Xiao replied, indicating his unfamiliarity with the term.

    "When you resurrected, did you forget all of your past life¡¯s memories?" Blue Star questioned, its blue eyes narrowing.

    "I''ve forgotten." Yun Xiao admitted.

    Yun Xiao was clear on one thing. He had not reincarnated in the conventional sense. No. A mere mortal like him had undergone a process he could barely fathom, using an ancient, enigmatic Immortal corpse to revive his soul.

    "Fine! Let me keep things brief then," Blue Star dered. "In your previous life, you were betrayed by six despicable beings," he said with gritted teeth.

    "The Six Ancestral Gods?" Yun Xiao recalled the earth-shaking promations when he had borrowed the Immortal corpse to return to life. Was it about the Creator Immortal? The tales of unbridled tyranny?

    "Exactly! These six viins, recognizing you were exhausted after creating the world and had entered a deep slumber, thrust you into the Kunlun Purgatory. They subjected you to the relentless fires of the purgatory, refining your very blood, bones, flesh, core, and soul into a Rain of Creation, sprinkling it over countless Immortal domains and mortal realms!

    "Then, these six bathed in the Rain of Creation, essentially... consuming your essence," Blue Star''s eyes seemed to smolder.

    "What the...? The fate of the Creator Immortal really sounds tragic!" Yun Xiaomented, a hint of disbelief in his voice.

    "Are you dense?" Blue Star stared at him incredulously.

    "Creator, you are the Creator Immortal. You are the tragic one..." Red Moon grinned, revealing its menacing maw, as it burst intoughter.

    Yun Xiao was momentarily dumbstruck. He wanted to rify that he had only borrowed the Immortal''s body to reincarnate...

    "Listen, what I''m about to say next is crucial!" Blue Star said, fixing Yun Xiao with a piercing gaze.

    "Go on," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "You must reconstruct the Creator Immortal and strike back at the Kunlun Purgatory!"

    "With just this flesh and skin, can I really do it?" Yun Xiao pondered, his heart pounding at the thought. After touching on this topic, his determination surged. He yearned to not only survive but thrive.

    "Absolutely! You just need to seek out the Seeds of Creation and reim your Dao Body," Blue Star said coldly.

    "Seeds of Creation?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The essence of the Creator Immortal, which was torched in the Kunlun Purgatory for eons, transformed into the endless Rain of Creation throughout the Dao Realm. Those beings who absorbed the Rain and awakened various gifts of bones, blood, flesh, soul, and core are the Seeds of Creation.

    "These Seed basically also took part in the dismemberment of the Creator Immortal along with the Six Ancestral Gods," Blue Star said with evident disdain.

    The Creator Immortal, torched for a billion years?

    "That''s savage!" Even the beings of the mortal realm, just by being caught in the rain, benefitted from this?

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao made the connection. In the vastnd of the Divine Continent, legends spoke of the Immortal Rain. It was said that countless individuals had been fortunate enough to be caught in this divine rain, awakening marvelous gifts. Some even transformed overnight from nobodies to prodigies.

    "So, these lucky ones are the Seeds of Creation." It became evident how formidable the Creator Immortal in his prime must have been. Unable to contain his curiosity, Yun Xiao asked, "If I reim the gifts of these Seeds of Creation, can I gradually restore my being?"

    "Yes! The Six Ancestral Gods, who consumed most of your essence, are the most potent Seeds of Creation," Blue Star''s eyes narrowed. "However, given your current weakened state, you should start with the mortal realm''s Seeds of Creation."

    "How many Seeds of Creation are there?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "So many! They''re everywhere! That Ye Guao we saw earlier, he''s a Seed of Creation!" Blue Star answered. "His Dantian glows golden, allowing him to harness even more potent Dragon Spring magic. This makes his magical power stronger than any cultivator of his level... That''s because he has inherited the Creator Immortal''s Dantian, a Seed of Creation."

    Bones, blood, soul, flesh, and core. Here, the core referred to the vital points and dantian, the ces which nurtured life energy and magic. There were also Creation Bones, Creation Blood, and so on.

    "Ye Guao is a Seed of Creation?" Yun Xiao eximed in surprise.

    "Not just him. His elder brother, Ye Guying, has two energy structures within his Dantian. That''s a Twin-Dantian. His magic is twice as powerful as any other cultivator at his level. His Seed of Creation talent is far superior to his younger brother''s!" Blue Star said. "Creator, if you wish to be the Creator Immortal again, you must start with the Dantian. These brothers are key to your rise.

    "Don''t tter yourself. Even though you were once the Creator Immortal, now, you''re nothing more than the lowest level of a cripple in the whole Dao Realm!"

    Essentially, he was nothing more than an Immortal in name only!

    Listening to Blue Star, Yun Xiao''s eyes burned with passion. A Golden Dantian? A Twin Dantian? Were all these Seed of Creation talents derived from the Rain of Creation that had been falling across countless realms and eons? The end of these Seeds of Creation? The Six Ancestral Gods! To be the Creator Immortal again, one would have to trample over all of them...

    "Ye Guying?" A deep chill shed in Yun Xiao''s eyes. The concept of the Six Ancestral Gods was too vague for him. But mention Ye Guying, and he was filled with rage.

    "Do you understand?" Blue Star looked at him expectantly.

    "I do." Yun Xiao nodded. "Someone once tried to teach me the ways of the Immortals. I came to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect just to behead him. So my desire to be powerful is much stronger than you think! But there''s one thing I need to rify."

    "Speak," Blue Star said, lifting his head.

    "My name is Yun Xiao, not Creator." He stared deeply into Blue Star''s eyes. He was just a lucky individual who was inexplicably brought back to life using the body of a dead Immortal.

    "It doesn''t matter," Blue Star grinned. "If I say you are, then you are."

    "..." Yun Xiao didn''t know how to respond. There was a moment of silence.

    "Creator!" Blue Star suddenly shouted, his eyes trembling.

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "After millions of years, the world has changed so much. Things and people have changed... I... I''ve missed you." Tears welled up in Blue Star''s crystalline eyes.

    "Me too!" Red Moon wailed, but continued to munch on rocks with its big mouth.

    A smile crept onto Yun Xiao''s face. For some reason, even though it was their first meeting, he felt a genuine connection. Just as he was about to say something profound, Red Moon suddenly became excited. "There''s milk ahead!" it shouted.

    "What?"

    "It smells divine!" Red Moon''s eyes gleamed.

    Yun Xiao heard it too. There was definitely somemotion. He swiftly moved through a silent maple forest, with leaves littering the ground in the deep autumn. Up ahead, a woman in blue robes knelt amidst the fallen leaves, trembling. Her pants were torn, revealing a deep sword wound on her jade-like leg that bled profusely.

    Standing in front of her was a young man in a golden robe. The golden-robed youth looked yful and smug.

    "Ye Guao, please spare me!" the woman pleaded in despair.

    "Let you go? Would a wolf let go of a rabbit? Ye Guao grinned nastily before pouncing forward.

    "No, don''t! This is the Heavenly Path!" the woman cried out in fear. She was already covered in bloody wounds, the pain seeping into her bones. So, there was nothing she could do to fight back against this ferocious beast.

 Chapter 005 - Sword Soul Unleashed! Victory or Death!

    <h4>Chapter 005 - Sword Soul Unleashed! Victory or Death!</h4>

    Ye Guao caught the chin of the young maiden, his lips quirked in amusement and a hint of mischief on his face. "You better not move, or I''ll kill you on the spot!"

    The girl panicked, clutching at her chest protectively. "Azure Spirit is a ce for Immortals, not your yground!" she spat back, teeth gritted in anger.

    Ye Guao burst intoughter, the sound echoing around them. Suddenly, he pped her. The girl fell to the ground with a thud, blood trickling from the corner of her mouth, barely conscious.

    "When my brother bes the youngest Sect Master in the history of Azure Spirit, this ce will be mine!" Ye Guao dered.

    Just as he was about to continue having his way with the girl, a cold voice cut through the forest. "Let her go."

    "Who!?" Ye Guao cried out in shock. He spun around to look at the source of the voice.

    Suddenly, a youth in white appeared before him. Standing amidst a flurry of maple leaves, his long hair billowed like the waves, his face handsome and regal, his eyes as vast as the cosmos.

    "Oh, well if it isn''t the pretty boy?" Ye Guao began with a mocking chuckle. He''d originally been on edge, but he rxed after seeing who it was. "Beat it! You''re ruining my fun!" he said coldly.

    "Please don''t leave!" Save me!" the young maiden cried out. She pulled on her clothes, covering her snow white body as she looked at the youth in white pleadingly.

    "Alright. Don''t worry." Yun Xiao nodded. He calmly walked toward Ye Guao, surrounded by swirling leaves, each bearing the mark of a sword''s cut.

    Ye Guaoughed so hard he doubled over, "You, a mongrel without even the power of the Dragon Spring, dare bark at me?" He had already reached the Dragon Spring Realm, his cultivation path official, the golden power within him churning like a storm.

    "He''s not even in the Dragon Spring Realm?" the girl despaired, looking at Yun Xiao.

    "So be it! I''ll teach you just how cruel the path of an Immortal can be! Prepare to pay with your own blood!" Ye Guao grinned. <i>ng! </i>In his right hand, a golden Sword Soul stretched out from his palm. The moment the Sword Soul was released, the surrounding air surged with the energy of a thousand swords. A rare Meteor grade Gold Star Sword Soul!

    On this Gold Star Sword Soul, there was a denseyer of golden energy surrounding the de. This was the Sword Soul''s protective aurayer, which increased the hardness of the Sword Soul.

    Ye Guao''s Sword Soul had ayer of Sword Aura! With the power of the Dragon Spring Realm, he was undoubtedly a bonafide Sword Cultivator. This was a realm Yun Xiao had never reached.

    "Weakling, have you ever witnessed the Sword Transformation of a Sword Soul?" Ye Guao sneered. As he chuckled, the three-inch Gold Star Sword Soul, powered by his magic power, suddenly became shrouded in a cloud of mist and began to stretch!

    The three-inch Sword Soul transformed into a three-foot golden longsword. This was the Sword Soul Transformation! After attaining a Dragon Spring and harnessing the magic power within, a Sword Soul could manifest in three forms.

    Flying Sword - The smallest, it could fly thousands of miles to kill from a distance.

    Palm Sword - Three feet in length and held in the hand for closebat.

    Sovereign Sword - Thergest, it could be ridden and fly, transcending the heavens and earth.

    At this moment, Ye Guao had transformed his Sword Soul into the Palm Sword form, ready for battle.

    Yun Xiao''s three-inch blue Sword Soul couldn''t transform and was only a tenth of the length of the Gold Star Sword Soul. How could they bepared?

    "Want to y the hero saving the damsel in distress? Fine! I''ll lop off your lips, cut off your tongue, and give you a VIP seat to the greatest show!" Ye Guao licked his lips, looking back at the girl with a sinister expression.

    <i>Whoosh! </i>Suddenly, Yun Xiao blurred into motion and charged forward.<i> </i>In the hand of his white silhouette, a three-inch blue de shot out with murderous intent!

    "You dare to make the first move?!" Ye Guao cried out. Enraged, he tried to block with his sword! Gold and blue, onerge and one small, the two Sword Souls met in the midst of the swirling maple leaves, their tips colliding.

    <i>Ding! </i>A piercing noise erupted.

    "Ah!" Ye Guao''s expression contorted in agony. He screamed, stumbling and copsing to the ground, his right hand bursting open, blood spraying out! Clearly, his once indestructible Gold Star Sword Soul now bore several blue cracks. Streams of blue mist flowed into the cracks, causing the Gold Star Sword Soul to emit fracturing sounds.

    <i>Sputter! </i>Overwhelmed by the shock, Ye Guao coughed up blood onto his Sword Soul. Astonishingly, the blue cracks absorbed the blood.

    "My Sword Soul... it''s shattered!" He couldn¡¯t believe what had transpired. It felt surreal, like a dream. But the searing pain that coursed through his bones, the vessel of his Sword Soul, convinced him otherwise. It was no dream.

    A Sword Cultivator''s essence resided within his being, and his soul, in his de. Without this harmony, how could one cast a sword from afar to y a man?

    The cracks Ye Guao now bore weren¡¯t limited to his Sword Soul. They had permeated his very soul. A fragmented soul would render a man feeble and lost. There was an age-old adage. When the Sword Soul shatters, man stands at death''s door.

    ¡°It can¡¯t be...¡± Ye Guao murmured in disbelief. Raising his head, he saw a youth in white, gripping an unassuming three-inch azure de, gazing at him with an unreadable expression.

    ¡°Ye Guao,¡± Yun Xiao began, a smirk ying on his lips, "it seems your Sword Soul isn¡¯t as formidable as you thought."

    "Y-you..." Ye Guao, upon seeing the fractured state of his once mighty golden de, felt as though his very soul was being ripped apart.

    "H-he''s so strong..." the young girl looked at Yun Xiao in utter shock.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s voice dripped with chilling resolve as he continued, ¡°In our path, once a Sword Soul is drawn, it¡¯s a fight to the death. either you triumph, or you perish. Regrettably for you, today was my victory.¡±

    Sword Cultivators! Among all cultivators in the world, they were the most fierce. True daredevils! While others battled with mere weapons, these swordsmen wagered their very lives.

    The cold weight of Yun Xiao''s words twisted Ye Guao''s visage with pain. "You dare harm my Sword Soul? Know this! My brother is Ye Guying, the crowned Swordking of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect! The sect¡¯s prodigy and its future leader!"

    "Ye Guying? I know him," Yun Xiao remarked, the faintest smirk forming. Gripping Ye Guao''s hair, he yanked him up, causing the injured man to cry out in pain, blood staining the ground.

    Ye Guao stammered, "You know him and still you darey a hand on me?"

    "The very one I intend to ughter is his younger brother!" Yun Xiao smirked. An instantter, he swung his de. A muffled sound resonated as Heaven Burial, with a precision that even Yun Xiao hadn''t fully anticipated, sliced clean through Ye Guao''s neck.

    With an expression of utter disbelief, Ye Guao''s head detached, leaving his lifeless body copsing to the ground, blood painting the ground. His head remained in Yun Xiao''s firm grasp.

    "My brother is the Swordking of Azure Spirit..." As the abyss of death encroached upon him, terror washed over Ye Guao like a tidal wave. His once-promising journey as a cultivator had met a grim end. He died with his eyes wide open, unable to find peace.

    "Ah, you killed him...!" the young girl cried out, her face paling in fright like a startled deer.

    "The food thief died! It''s baby''s time to move!" Red Moon cried out excitedly, his gaze fixed on the young maiden the whole time.

    Yun Xiao didn''t bat an eyelid, pushing the little creature back into his robe. He approached the girl and softly asked, "Are you okay?"

    "I-I''m fine..." the girl replied, still trembling as she gazed at Ye Guao''s corpse. "Why did you kill him?"

    "It was either us or him. If I didn''t kill him there, he''d have made sure we''d meet with even more miserable ends once we entered the Azure Spirit Sword Sect," Yun Xiao said.

    "But he''s the little brother of the Swordking!" the young girl said, a conflicted look on her face.

    "Well... if you don''t say anything, and I don''t say anything, who would find out?" Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "I see... Okay!" the girl nodded, pursing her lips.

    "Also, I just saved you. Don''t I at least deserve a thanks?" Yun Xiao asked with a soft smile.

    "Ah!" Realization dawned on the girl. She squeezed out a small smile and said, "Thank you!"

    "I''ll take care of the corpse first." Yun Xiao said.

    "A-alright!" the girl nodded.

    Yun Xiao grabbed Ye Guao''s corpse and dragged it deeper into the forest. Before long, he disappeared from the girl''s sight.

    Afterwards, the girl''s face twisted with scorn. "You''re the one who killed him. Not me! Why should I keep your secret and get myself involved too!" She gritted her teeth, enduring the pain from her wounds. Then, she headed for the entrance of the Heavenly Path. "If I don''t report this soon, I''ll be seen as an aplice too...

    "Save me! Save me! Someone killed the Swordking''s little brother!" the young girl cried as she neared the entrance.

    "What are you shouting for?" A cold voice rang out behind her.

    The girl was shocked at the appearance of the white-robed youth. "Y-you followed me...?"

    "Did you think I wouldn''t? If I''d let you go like an idiot, I''d be dead meat for sure." Yun Xiao coldly looked at her. "I saved you. Yet, you decide to sell me out because you''re afraid of getting implicated too?"

    "P-please! Give me one more chance! I promise I''ll keep my mouth shut!" the girl begged, dropping to her knees.

    "The world isn''t so forgiving. You''ve already had your chance," Yun Xiao said apathetically. <i>Whoosh! </i> He shed her throat with a decisive strike. Blood sprayed the air as the girl copsed lifelessly on the forest floor, her eyes wide open.

    "I hope in your next life, you choose to act more wisely," Yun Xiao said. He turned around and slipped back into the forest.

    "Milk! My milk! Creator, you killed my milk! I''ll get you for this!" Red Moon''s voice trailed off.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    A long whileter, Yun Xiao tossed Ye Guao''s head into a nearby tree. He grabbed the corpse by the legs and dragged it along behind him.

    "Right!" Blue Star said, ncing at Ye Guao''s remains. "Earlier, during your duel, I noticed your Sword Soul seemed to... devour his."

    "That''s right." Yun Xiao confirmed, nodding.

    Blue Star, fixing a piercing gaze on Ye Guao''s corpse, mused, "The Sword Soul''s in the bones. Give it a try."

    "Alright." Yun Xiao summoned Heaven Burial into his palm. With a swift motion, the azure de pierced Ye Guao''s palm.

    Suddenly, a fading golden Sword Soul appeared, being absorbed by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. At the de''s core, the bud-shaped blue lotus quivered slightly. Within moments, the once radiant golden Sword Soul disintegrated into a misty fog, being fully consumed by Yun Xiao''s de.

    "Good Lord!" Yun Xiao eximed, eyes wide in shock. His Sword Soul had just eaten another''s. In an instant, the Gold Star Sword Soul was no more. The gold hadpletely vanished.

    Yun Xiao felt an enhancement in the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. Its aura of death seemed more concentrated. And on its surface, a faint blue sword gleam appeared.

    "A Sword Aura?" Yun Xiao murmured, awestruck.

    Other Sword Souls required the refinement of demonic bones to possibly birth a Sword Aura, often demanding centuries-old demons. Yet Yun Xiao''s de could simply seize another''s aura.

    Who really stood at the top of this food chain?

    "Only a Sword Soul birthed from the Heaven Burial Coffin and the Dao Source of the Divine Pir could achieve this!" Blue Star said, his eyes shimmering with excitement.

    "Dao what now?" Yun Xiao inquired, puzzled.

    "The Divine Pir is the Dao Source of the Dao Realm," Blue Star exined. "Put simply, this boundless world you inhabit, known as a Dao Realm, sprung forth from this source."

    "Are you suggesting that the Divine Pir is essentially the embryo of an expansive world?" Yun Xiao said.

    "Exactly," Blue Star affirmed with a nod. "Besides this Dao Realm you''ve established, there remain ten Dao Sources in the vast chaos. Kunlun Purgatory and the Divine Pir are but two of those ten."

    Yun Xiao''s eyes widened, genuine surprise coloring his features. "Ten Dao Sources? That''s quite a number. Why then did the Divine Pir merge with the Heaven Burial Coffin to form my Sword Soul?"

    Blue Star sighed with a hint of regret, "That was a mystery you were deciphering in your past life. Sadly, just as you gathered all ten Primordial Coffins, cing them within Red Moon and me, you slumbered due to the toll of creation."

    Yun Xiao mused aloud, "The ten Primordial Coffins... They must be the coffins within that ancient bronze coffin." He felt a shiver down his spine as a thought struck him, "So, every Primordial Coffin and every Dao Source could potentially merge and be harnessed by me?"

    Blue Star simply nodded, leaving Yun Xiao awestruck. He muttered to himself, "No wonder my Sword Soulcks the might of the Divine Pir. It''s still an embryo, needing to mature. One day, it might possess the power of an entire world. With all the coffins in hand, I onlyck nine Dao Sources. And if the Divine Pir gave rise to the Sword Soul, I wonder what wonders the Dao Source could yield. More Sword Souls, or something even more unimaginable?"

    Blue Star''s eyes sparkled with anticipation, "With just one Heaven Burial Sword Soul, acting as the embryo of the world, you could potentially rival the entire Dao Realm."

    Yun Xiao, his heart racing with excitement, eximed, "Astounding!"

    "After a Seed of Creation dies, their inherent gifts swiftly dissipate. Quickly seize his Golden Dantian, and you''ll be able to amass a Dragon Spring, harness magical power, and incorporate it into your Sword Soul. You''ll then officially be a Sword Cultivator," Blue Star reminded.

    This was the first step! Yun Xiao recalled his understanding of the stages before reaching the Dragon Spring realm. This all encapsted within the Mortal Martial Realm.

    The Mortal Martial Realm was segmented into five distinct stages: Spirit Sensing, Flesh Forging, Blood Ignition, Bone Refining, and finally, Origin Opening. Yun Xiao had previously reached the pinnacle of Origin Opening before his demise.

    Origin Opening referred to opening the Dantian, marking the birth of their life essence, which served as the foundation for cultivation.

    Once the Dantian was open, and if one possessed the right techniques, they could then absorb the spiritual energy around them, transforming their vital essence into magical power¡ªa process often referred to as Dantian birthing the Dragon Spring.

    The Dragon Spring was essentially a spring shaped like a dragon, created from an inexhaustible source of magical energy. Each Cultivator''s Dragon Spring was unique, dictated by their individual paths and techniques. Some had the Azure Dragon, others a zing Dragon... With the dragon residing within their Dantian, their Immortal Path truly began.

    In essence, the Dragon Spring Realm marked the beginning to the path of cultivation. Once one entered the Dragon Spring Realm, they became akin to a submerged dragon, ever hopeful of soaring to the heavens.

    In the three months before he arrived at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Yun Xiao had broken through all five stages of the Mortal Martial Realm with his newfound body, returning to Origin Opening.

    Armed with his new body and Sword Soul, it was this potentbination that had given him the edge over Ye Guao.

    "Until now, with Red Moon and me dormant, youcked the method to congregate a Dragon Spring. That''s why you couldn''t truly be a cultivator," Blue Star continued, snapping Yun Xiao out of his reverie.

    Now, the path to the Dragon Springy tantalizingly at his feet.

    A while into their trek, Blue Star eximed, "Stop, this is a good spot!"

    Yun Xiao looked around as Blue Star squeezed out from his embrace, looking bothical and endearing. The valley they stood in was deep and surrounded by a dense forest, a world untouched by civilization.

    "What now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Watch and learn," Blue Star replied with a chilling grin. No sooner had the words left its mouth than the small ck creature leaped out.

    <i>BOOM! </i>A shocking scene unfolded. Uponnding, a fog-like aura erupted from its ck fur. The creature began to expand rapidly, and with a humming noise, it transformed into a massive bronze coffin.

    The coffin stood eight feet tall and spanned several yards in length. From a distance, it might be mistaken for a square-shaped cabin.

    <i>KLANG! </i>With the sound of metal grinding, the coffin''s lid began to open on its own.

    "Enter. It''s safer within the coffin," a pair of deep blue eyes manifested on the lid, fixing their gaze on Yun Xiao.

    Just as those words were spoken, another pair of blood-red eyes appeared on the body of the coffin below. They opened to reveal a gaping maw and boisterously said, "Creator,e in quick! There''s no poop in baby''s belly!"

    The two truly were a unique piece of work!

    "You don''t need to tell me that!" Yun Xiao cried out, clearly bbergasted. Without further hesitation, he stepped inside the coffin. As soon as he did, the lid with Blue Star''s essence mmed shut with a resounding ng.

    Inside the coffin was an eerie silence, a foreboding atmosphere enveloping him. Catching a glimpse out of the corner of his eye, Yun Xiao noticed the other nine small bronze coffins. They had simrly shrunk in size and were now ced in a corner.

    "What are you waiting for? Start integrating the Seed of Creation," the haunting eyes of Blue Star reappeared on the lid.

    "How do I go about it?" Yun Xiao questioned, setting Ye Guao aside.

    "How would I know? Do I look like the Creator Immortal to you?" Blue Star retorted with a smirk.

    "..." Yun Xiao rolled his eyes.

 Chapter 006 - Yun Xiao, Who Will Meet You at the Summit?

    <h4>Chapter 006 - Yun Xiao, Who Will Meet You at the Summit?</h4>

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but silentlyment, "All I am is a mere mortal, brought back from the dead. How do I go about this?" He was left to figure it out on his own. He closed his eyes, reaching out with his hand, cing his palm against Ye Guao''s abdomen. "Seed of Creation, the Golden Dantian."

    This bestowed Dantian gift was a single droplet of the Rain of Creation that had descended from the heavens, absorbed by Ye Guao. It came from the Creator Immortal, who had been refined for countless eons!

    "Is this a part of what once belonged to my Creator Immortal body?" Yun Xiao remarked with a quizzical expression. Soon after, he sensed the presence of the Rain of Creation. It had already melded into Ye Guao''s Dantian, manifesting as a golden mist. "Come forth!" After Ye Guao''s demise, his life force had crumbled, and all was fading away.

    Sure enough, that Droplet of Creation was drawn by Yun Xiao''s beckoning, reassembling and flying towards him. A hissing sound resonated. It was as if Ye Guao had met death once again. His rigid corpse convulsed violently. As the Rain of Creation left his body, blood flowed from every pore. His body shriveled,pletely devoid of any semnce of life.

    A deep humming sound vibrated through the air. The Droplet of Creation fused into Yun Xiao''s body, momentarily appearing atop his Dantian. The droplet dispersed into mist, blending into his Dantian like veins of blood. A golden aura began to rise.

    "It feels amazing!" Yun Xiao eximed, eyes gleaming. He distinctly felt that his body, parched like drought-strickennd, had just experienced a refreshing downpour. As the droplet integrated into his Dantian and vital essence, surges of immense vigor pulsated through every blood vessel and bone. He had seeded in obtaining the Golden Dantian!

    "Though it''s the most basic Seed of Creation, it''ll still set you on your journey from humble beginnings," Blue Star uttered in a raspy voice.

    "Such a profound transformation from the most basic Seed of Creation?" Yun Xiao queried in astonishment.

    "Enough talk!" Blue Star''s eyes vanished from the coffin lid, reced by four vast, awe-inspiring characters that seemed to depict the primordial chaos and the birth of the universe.

    "Primordial Void Technique? What is this?" Yun Xiao felt as though he wasn''t merely observing four characters but was beholding the grand expanse of the cosmos, myriad mists rising, endless turbid auras sinking, with the sun and moon birthed amidst it, and the tumult of wind, thunder, and lightning.

    "Your Dao Technique," Blue Star replied tersely.

    "Dao Technique? By practicing it, will I cultivate a Dragon Spring in my Dantian, transform my vital essence into magic power, and officially embark on the path of cultivation?" Yun Xiao eagerly asked..

    Blue Star chuckled mercilessly, "That''s hrious."

    "What do you mean?"

    "You have the foundational technique to navigate through chaos and derive Dao Realms, yet you''re preupied with merely forming a Dragon Spring in your Dantian?" Blue Starughed heartily.

    Yun Xiao was left speechless. Using the Creator Immortal''s world-shaping technique to form a Dragon Spring? He admitted it was a bit narrow-minded.

    After a bout ofughter, Blue Star mused, ¡°Truthfully, the Primordial Void Technique is renowned, but not within thend of the Divine Continent. It¡¯s famous high above the heavens.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Yun Xiao responded nonchntly.

    ¡°It''s the premier Dao Cultivation Method, the hallmark of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor. Many believe them to be the progenitor of the Immortal Dao, all because this ancient god derived the Primordial Void Technique for myriad paths for mortals to be Immortals and transmitted it across the Dao Realms.¡± Blue Star¡¯s voice held a chilling reverence when speaking of this entity.

    ¡°Is the Primordial Immortal Ancestor one of the Six Ancestral Gods?¡± Yun Xiao queried, furrowing his brow.

    ¡°Indeed. They''re the sole progenitor of the human race among the Six Ancestral Gods. They''re credited with founding the cultivation system for human Immortals. Even the Dragon Spring realm you''re currently cultivating is the beginning of the ascension path they established.¡± Blue Starughed scornfully, expressing utter disdain.

    ¡°I presume... whether it''s the Primordial Void Technique or the human Immortal cultivation system, the true creator was the Creator Immortal?¡± Yun Xiao hypothesized, narrowing his eyes.

    ¡°Of course! Apart from having milk, how can that Primordial Immortal Ancestor evenpare to Creator?¡± Red Moon interjected vehemently, quite disgruntled, licking its lips afterward.

    Upon hearing this, Yun Xiao could only surmise that the Creator Immortal was truly formidable. Regrettably, he had vanished without a trace! Those Six Ancestral Gods not only seized everything from him but also robbed him of the merit of creating the world and passing on the Dao.

    ¡°Creator!¡± Blue Star eximed fervently, ¡°Once you reim the Seeds of Creation gifts like blood, flesh, and bone, you''ll be able to unlock all systems of the Six Ancestral Gods!¡±

    ¡°It''s not just the Primordial Void Technique?¡± Yun Xiao questioned.

    ¡°Of course not, you are the source of myriad paths! The Primordial Void Technique refines only the Dantian. There''s still the blood, bone, flesh, and soul!¡± Blue Star dered.

    ¡°I understand.¡± Yun Xiao nodded.

    ¡°Whether you cultivate the Primordial Void Technique or anything else, if you get a chance to ascend to the pinnacle again, you''ll undoubtedly surpass the Six Ancestral Gods!¡± Blue Star assured.

    ¡°Are you certain?¡± Yun Xiao probed.

    "Of course! Speaking of the Primordial Void Technique, you''re cultivating the Yang Void, while the Primordial Immortal Ancestor practiced the Yin Void. The Yang Void is above, the Yin Void below. When Yang Void reachespletion, the Yin Void will be your furnace!" Blue Star exined.

    "No way..." Yun Xiao recalled what Red Moon had mentioned earlier and smirked, "You mean to say, the Primordial Immortal Ancestor... is a woman?"

    "Exactly. A warm-blooded woman!" Both Blue Star and Red Moon chimed in unison.

    Yun Xiao was taken aback. "I, a mere mortal, am expected to use the progenitor of the human Immortal Dao as my furnace?" Imagining such a scene sent shivers down his spine. He whispered to himself, "Let''s not get ahead of ourselves with grand ambitions. Stay grounded and focus on cultivating the Dragon Spring."

    Primordial Void Technique! In Yun Xiao''s vision, it was represented by only these four characters.

    "Let me lead you onto the Dao." Blue Star decisively announced.

    From the coffin lid, the four characters resembling the chaos of the universe dropped and entered Yun Xiao''s body, transforming into tumultuous waves, crashing into his Dantian.

    A gentle hum resounded. Even though it was just the beginning, Yun Xiao could sense that this Dao Technique initiated a genesis transformation within his Golden Dantian. The dawn of chaos! The inception of all life. A strand of primordial energy transformed into magical power, producing a dragon-shaped spring in the center of his Dantian.

    "This is the Dragon Spring!" A vast amount of spiritual energy surged into Yun Xiao''s body from the ancient bronze coffin. It seemed this ancient bronze coffin had the ability to gather spiritual energy.

    "It looks like from now on, I''ll need to practice lying inside this coffin," Yun Xiao mused.

    Blue Star and Red Moon, they were not only partners but also a mobile cultivation base! It was said that cultivators, due to their constitution and Dao Technique, would cultivate different kinds of Dragon Springs. For instance, Ye Guao cultivated a Golden Dragon, and its magical power was iparably fierce.

    Although Yun Xiao had seized that same Golden Dantian, he practiced the Primordial Void Technique and birthed an ethereal, mysterious Dragon Spring. It resided within his Dantian, swallowing clouds and exhaling mist, its majestic energy soaring.

    "What kind of dragon is this?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s a Primordial Void Dragon." Blue Star praised.

    Yun Xiao was shocked, "This dragon... sounds peculiar. It''s not rted to some kind of kidney disease, right?"

    "Your mother''s a kidney disease!" Blue Star was left speechless, "The Primordial Void Dragon signifies infinite possibilities! Coupled with your Golden Dantian. At the very least, even though you''re currently at the early stage of the Dragon Spring Realm, your magical power surpasses those in the same realm by more than just a step!"

    "Really?" Yun Xiao''s heart warmed up. The Dragon Spring Realm! Simr to the Mortal Martial Realm, it was divided into five sub-stages. Early, Mid, Late, Perfect, and Establishment. The first four were self-exnatory, whereas the fifth sub-stage, Establishment, signified transcending perfection to firmly establish oneself in the realm.

    Reaching the Establishment stage of the Dragon Spring Realm was much harder than the previous four stages. To determine which stage of the Dragon Spring Realm one was in was easy. Based on the Dragon Spring in the Dantian, one w signified the Early, two ws for Mid, three for Late, four for Perfect, and five for Establishment!

    Yun Xiao, who had just entered the Dragon Spring Realm, with his one-w Primordial Void Dragon Spring, was at the Early stage of the realm.

    "With magical power and a Sword Soul, from this moment on, I am a true sword cultivator." This had once been Yun Xiao''s dream.

    "Starting off is merely the beginning. Ye Guao''s Golden Dantian only has limited use and serves merely as a transitional phase. His older brother''s Twin Dantians is a truly effective Seed of Creation. If you manage to acquire it, only then can you genuinely cultivate the formal mantra of the Primordial Void Technique." Blue Star''s expression was a mask of sternness. "Your current Dantian isn''t robust enough to handle potent techniques."

    "So this profound technique I''m currently practicing isn''t even the final version? That implies that the other systems Creator Immortal devised require the Seed of Creation to unlock," mused Yun Xiao. "My journey seems endless, the present realities constraining. The road ahead will be long and fraught with challenges!

    "Ye Guying..." Yun Xiao muttered. "Forget about the Seed of Creation. From the day of the duel at the imperial Capital, it''s be a matter of life and death!

    "By the way, do you two still have any fighting capabilities left?" Yun Xiao asked curiously.

    These entities originated from the ancient bronze coffin. A boundless entity.

    "Reviving you and getting you back to Cloud Nation took a heavy toll. It''s irreversible. We''re almost drained, almost like we''ve been reborn ourselves," Blue Star exined nonchntly. No wonder they had slumbered for three months before waking.

    "Still..." Blue Star grinned. "It''s not like anything''s changed. While you pave the path ahead, we''ve always got your back during critical moments."

    "That reliable?" Yun Xiao pondered inwardly.

    "Of course! For a brother, I''d even take a stab in my kidneys!" Blue Star dered with a booming voice.

    "And I''d take two stabs in my stomach!" Red Moon chimed in fervently. Always there to cover him! It meant entrusting his very life to them.

    "Damn impressive!" Yun Xiao gave them a big thumbs-up. "To have you both by my side in this new life, I promise I''ll have your backs first!" In this world, he no longer had any family. Their sudden presence warmed Yun Xiao''s once frozen heart.

    <i>Whoosh! </i>Under Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul, Ye Guao''s body was reduced to ashes.

    The moment Yun Xiao emerged from the bronze coffin, the massive structure asrge as a house once more transformed into a small ck creature, jumping into Yun Xiao''s embrace.

    "Holy crap! Watch the bite!" Yun Xiao''s face turned a shade of purple in shock.

    "Heh, my bad," Red Moon admitted with a sheepish grin, revealing its massive jaws.

    Yun Xiao was speechless. The creature was akin to a burly man wearing a pink bra! ncing up at the sky, he remarked, "Lost a bit of time there. Need to make haste.

    "My Heaven Burial Sword Soul might be of terrifying quality, but it''s still in its infancy, like a newborn sword. There''s a possibility it could be destroyed. So, it''s crucial to enhance its Sword Aura." Yun Xiao looked towards the mountain''s peak. "And that five-century-old demon bone... if I miss this opportunity, it might be challenging to obtain again."

    Yun Xiao transformed into a white silhouette, darting into the dense forest.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Jiang Yue in her pristine white sword robe stood alone high up on the Heavenly Path. She felt a sudden unease and nced back. The forest behind her whispered with a chilling wind, as if a malevolent demon was slowly approaching. A frosty look filled her eyes.

    "Senior Brother Ye personally provided the five-hundred-year-old demon bone for this trial as a gift for me. If I falter now, it will surely leave a terrible impression on him," Jiang Yue mused. "Furthermore... he mentioned that an important person will be observing my performance on the Sword Inheritance tform today. This could be my golden opportunity to soar!"

    Her gaze turned upwards to the peak. Below the Heavenly Path, there was a man named Yun Xiao. His name reminded her of a departed soul with the same name. Thinking of that lost soul from her hometown, she frowned slightly.

    "Yun Xiao, who do you think you''ll be meeting atop the summit?" Jiang Yue whispered coldly. "You, a mere mortal, are only fit to look up from beneath a mountain of bones, while I ascend to the pinnacle of immortality!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above the clouds stood the Sword Inheritance tform! On the tform were eight stone seats. Seven of them were upied by the elders of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. These seven stone seats had inscriptions denoting the Sword Peaks. For instance, Elder Yao Qingqian''s seat bore the inscription First Sword.

    In addition to these seven, there was another, more massive stone seat in the center. However, no one upied that most central seat. From a distance, one could clearly discern two powerful characters carved into the backrest of this seat¡ªSword Pavilion. The Azure Spirit Sword Sect was structured with one Sword Pavilion and seven Sword Peaks.

    "Elder Yao, is everything in order?" a middle-aged Sword Cultivator asked. Dressed in a blue robe with a beard that split into two ends, his keen eyes frequently drifted to the tantalizing slit of Yao Qingqian''s dress. His name was Wu Yu, one of the elders of the Third Sword Peak.

    "Why does it concern you?" Yao Qingqian retorted. Her graceful figure emphasized by her high-slit dress allowed glimpses of her fair legs, exuding an elusive charm amidst the gentle breeze.

    "After all, this is an arrangement by Swordking Ye. We shouldn''t take it lightly," Elder Wu replied with a sheepish grin.

    Casting a nce at the other elders who seemed engrossed in the view below, Elder Yao whispered, "The main event is on the Stone Path."

    From their vantage point atop the Sword Inheritance tform, they had a clear view of a rocky path below. This path was the final segment of the Heavenly Path. Those who could pass through the Stone Path could enter the revered Azure Spirit. No disciples had yet to set foot on this path. But once someone did, the elders would undoubtedly notice.

    "Did you nt some tricks on the Stone Path?" Elder Wu inquired in a hushed tone.

    "Not exactly tricks. The Stone Path has always been the final test, where disciples face off against demons," Yao Qingqian replied with a cold, yful smile. "I''ve unleashed a two-century-old Blood Demon there. Any disciple other than Jiang Yue and Ye Guao who dares to step up, shall meet their doom."

    "A two-century-old Blood Demon!" Wu Yu eximed in shock, taking a wary nce at the other elders, "The Stone Path usually hosts demons with only a century''s worth of cultivation. A two-century-old, especially a vicious creature like a Blood Demon... Aren''t you afraid the other elders might suspect something?"

    "What''s there to suspect?" Yao Qingqian shot back, rolling her eyes, "When ites to Swordking Ye''s affairs, who would dare to interfere?"

    "I suppose you''re right," Wu Yu replied, rubbing his neck in embarrassment.

    "In cultivation, are we truly pursuing the Dao? Or perhaps, it''s the intricate tapestry of human emotions and worldly affairs, understand?" Yao Qingqian uttered with a soft huff, her hands gracefully folded atop herp, exuding a serene allure.

    "Indeed!" Elder Wu nced briefly at the Stone Path, jesting, "Let''s see if any unlucky souls have dared to step onto it first."

    "There likely aren''t any. Ye Guao, at just thirteen, is already remarkable. As for that Jiang Yue... she''s a true prodigy. She might very well be the next Swordking Ye!" Yao Qingqian''s brows betrayed a hint of envy as she spoke of the young girl. She was envious of her innate talent and her youth.

    "The next Swordking Ye?" Elder Wu felt his heart skip a beat.

    "Yes! Within merely three months under Swordking Ye''s tutge, she advanced from the Mortal Martial Realm to the Dragon Spring Realm, reaching the Mid stage with two ws on her Dragon Spring. Moreover, Swordking Ye probably gifted her numerous demon bones in private. Her Sword Soul should already harbor threeyers of Sword Aura," Yao Qingqian praised.

    "Gifting her demon bones, and potentially awarding her the honor of being first on the Heavenly Path with that five-century-old demon bone? Swordking Ye must truly favor her," Elder Wu remarked, then whispered, "Elder Yao, any insider info on what quality Jiang Yue''s Sword Soul is within the Comet grade?"

    The majority of Sword Souls were deemed mediocre. But once they reached the Meteor or Comet grade, they were further categorized as Lower, Mid, or Upper. The difference between Lower Comet and Upper Comet was vast.

    If Jiang Yue''s Ice Moon Sword Soul was of Lower Comet grade, it would only be considered top-tier within Azure Spirit. But if it was Upper Comet grade, then she''d be the absolute pinnacle of Azure Spirit.

    "I don''t have the eyes of the Sword Inheritance Stone. How would I know?" Yao Qingqian replied in irritation. She shot him a re, "Once we select the ten new disciples, we can test them all on the Sword Inheritance Stone. Won''t we then know the exact quality of her Sword Soul?"

    "Right, right!" Elder Wu nodded hurriedly, pecking like a hen. "I''ve heard Swordking Ye intends to venture to the Sea of Swords to inherit the Azure Kite?"

    "It''ll soon be the talk of the entire Azure Spirit," Yao Qingqian murmured, her heart racing at the thought of the young man.

    "By that ount, he''s surpassed the dead from the Sword Pavilion," Elder Wumented, casting a peculiar nce towards the empty greenstone chair in the middle.

    "Let''s not bring up those who have passed," Yao Qingqian retorted, rolling her eyes in exasperation.

    Just as her words came to an end, an elder cried out. "There''s a disciple entering the Stone Path!"

    The previously disinterested seven elders suddenly perked up. Once ten disciples had passed the demon ying challenge and reached the end, the Heavenly Path Trial would conclude.

    "It seems to be a charming young girl." an elder observed keenly.

    "Isn''t that the Ice Moon Sword Soul? Its cold frost is surely of the Comet grade! But is it Lower, Mid, or Upper-grade?"

    "Usually, they''re of the Lower-grade."

    "Even the Lower-grade is considered a prodigy! What a talent!"

    Hearing the murmurs, Yao Qingqian looked down at the Stone Path and chuckled softly.

    "Jiang Yue?" Elder Wu''s eyes brightened.

    "Mhm, it''s her. Currently in the lead," Yao Qingqian nodded.

    "She truly is remarkable. Seems like your Blood Demon won''t be needed after all," remarked Elder Wu.

    "It''s to be expected." Yao Qingqian shrugged.

    For a moment, all seven elders fixed their gazes on the Stone Path.

    "Jiang Yue..." Higher up on the Heavenly Path, Yun Xiao had just passed through a turbulent and stormy section. At a nce, he saw a figure ahead, a young woman who had taken the lead and stepped onto the Stone Path.

    "The Stone Path is the final challenge. Rumor has it that it''s guarded by demons, specially caught by the Azure Spirit Sword Sect to test and hone a disciple''s courage. These demons are said to be the most oppressive and brutal," Yun Xiao mused, a storm swirling in his eyes as he pursued the fading white silhouette.

    Though Yun Xiao''s breakthrough to the Dragon Spring Realm dyed him slightly, he''d managed to make up for lost time, now surpassing all other disciples. Ahead, there stood none but Jiang Yue.

    As Yun Xiao approached the stone pathway, the shing ofbat echoed forth.

    Yun Xiao leapt forward, ascending the pathway in a single bound. Before himy a stairway, crafted from massive boulders. These steps, as though designed for giants, had a drop of over ten feet between each.

    No sooner had Yun Xiao alighted on the first step did he lift his gaze to witness a spectacle. A young woman wielding a frosty-blue Sword Soul, shing with a monstrous beast that had lived a century.

    A serpent demon! Its upper body resembled that of a human, while its lower half slithered like a snake. Half-human in form and boasting over a century''s worth of cultivation, it exuded a menacing aura, wreathed in a sinister mist. It was palpably stronger than the serpent demon Yun Xiao had faced in the Cloud Nation''s Imperial Capital.

    Even more shocking, though, was Jiang Yue''s performance. Yun Xiao had always remembered her for being less skilled inbat, but she now unveiled a ferocious icy demeanor. With every swing of her Ice Moon Sword Soul, chilling winds howled, and frost permeated the air.

    <i>Thwack! </i>In a decisive stroke, Jiang beheaded the serpent demon.

    "If I were still at the Mortal Martial Realm without awakening my Dragon Spring, she''d beat me for sure," Yun Xiao mused. It appeared she''d also pushed herself to astonishing limits in these past three months.

    "Stop!" Yun Xiao, with a piercing cold gaze, pursued.

    "You?" Jiang Yue turned to face him. Amidst the crimson-ck bewitching mist, a strikingly handsome youth was looking up at her from below the path, eyes storming as he settled his gaze on her. His charm made her heart flutter. Yet, his name itself was repugnant to her.

    JIang Yue parted her lips slightly, looking unenthused. "Did you just tell me to stop?"

    "Is there anyone else here? Of course, I meant you. I noticed your rapport with Elder Yao earlier. I just want to know... Did they guarantee you the first spot?" Yun Xiao''s lips curved upwards, teasingly.

    "You..." On hearing this, Jiang Yue''s delicate brows began to furrow. His words felt like a de, piercing the heart of her pride.

    "Make your move. I will only draw my sword once," Jiang Yue proimed. Instead of continuing her ascent, anger shing in her eyes, she descended from the high ground.

    Yun Xiao, upon hearing her, smirked inwardly. In the past, she had always portrayed herself as docile and frail before him. It all turned out to be an act! And she appeared to be truly good at acting!

    Sadly, Jiang Yue couldn''t have possibly dreamt that Yun Xiao had returned from the dead and annihted her entire Jiang Family.

 Chapter 007 - First Place

    <h4>Chapter 007 - First ce</h4>

    "Does anyone here recognize this young man?" asked a stout elder with broad shoulders, seated in the stone seat of the Seventh Sword Peak of the Sword Inheritance tform. His name was Elder Yu, known as Yu Xuanzhou.

    "I''m not familiar with him, but he''s got good looks," Yao Qingqian remarked with a nonchnt smile, seemingly unimpressed.

    "Just a regr face," Elder Yu chuckled.

    The rest of the elders were speechless. <i>Is he blind!? In what world was that just a regr face?</i>

    <i>Ding! </i>Back on the Sword Stage, Yun Xiao manifested his azure Sword Soul into a three-foot-long de for the first time, its gleaming edges dancing in his grasp.

    "That Sword Soul of yours..." Jiang Yue nced at it and shook her head.

    "And?" Yun Xiao prodded.

    "It''s not even worth half my sword inparison," Jiang Yue replied with a disdainful smirk. Her icy-blue Sword Soul radiated threeyers of frosty Sword Aura. It was fierce and cold, its design far more impressive than Yun Xiao''s fledgling Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "Half your sword?" There Yun Xiao stood, facing the girl who shined like cold light, a piercing azure glint in his eyes. <i>Whoosh! </i>All at once, he struck with his de! In his white attire, holding his azure sword, he took a step mid-air. Sure, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul was a bitcklusterpared to the Ice Moon Sword Soul in terms of Sword Aura. But its nature, oozing death and stealing life force...? Well, that gave Yun Xiao a solid upper hand, overshadowing Jiang Yue entirely.

    <i>When I was out on the battlefield, shing down enemies at the age of twelve, you were probably stitchin¡¯ up daisies in the Prime Minister¡¯s manor. Now tell me, what exactly are you gonna bring to this dance? </i>Yun Xiao mused. <i>Whoosh!</i> Like a sh of lightning in white, his de advanced, aiming right for Jiang Yue''s lovely visage. Heaven Burial was overwhelming. It was as if the weight of the whole world were pressing down on her!

    While Jiang Yue was still conjuring up whatever sword spell she learned from Ye Guying, Yun Xiao''s de had already drawn a scratch across her cheek. Swift, urate, ruthless! With just one stroke, he dominated! The tip of his sword threateningly pointed at Jiang Yue¡¯s throat.

    "Good heavens, that¡¯s fast!" Jiang Yue''s eyes widened, her heart gave a start. In that split second, she saw a real desperado before her! In her surprise, she reacted instinctively, choosing not to face Yun Xiao head on. The once aloof and regal Jiang Yue quickly moved to parry with her Ice Moon Sword Soul.

    <i>ng, ng, ng!</i> Swords shed, sparks flew! The shrill sound made Jiang Yue wince in difort. Azure sword rays zipped by, turning a strand of Jiang Yue''s hair instantly to ash.

    "You''re pushing your luck!" Eyes wide, Jiang Yue narrowly dodged the attack, a torrent of stifled fury bubbling within her. It was hard to swallow the fact that she''d been startled so easily. But as she spat out those words, a dark shadow lunged at her.

    <i>Crack! </i>With a crisp sound, a scream escaped her lips as her body soared backward, crashing onto the stone steps behind. She tumbled at least eight times, her hair in disarray, dress smeared with dirt. When she finally scrambled to her feet, anger and shock etched on her face, a vivid red handprint marred her left cheek.

    It was Yun Xiao''s doing. The impact had skewed her once pretty face, likely fracturing her brow, with blood steadily oozing from her wounds. Having missed her with his sword, Yun Xiao decided to follow up with a hearty p, aiming to wreck her lofty, aloof facade.

    "Where''s your counter, eh?" Yun Xiao sneered. With a leap, he descended the stone steps, the deadly aura of his Heaven Burial in hand. The gleam in his eyes mirrored the de''s intensity as he charged at Jiang Yue again.

    Jiang Yue, still recovering, felt the searing pain on her face. "You¡ª" Before she could finish, she met Yun Xiao''s gaze. Those eyes, cold and detached, seemed to be assessing humanity from a lofty position.

    "Draw your sword!" But before Jiang Yue could react, a kicknded on her chest, sending her flying backward. Her head collided hard with a rock. Stars danced before her eyes, the world spinning. Blood matted her hair and painnced through her from every direction. Could she even manage to draw her sword? She feltpletely overwhelmed.

    "Is this all the famed prodigy has?" Yun Xiao''s voice dripped with disdain, like a reaper approaching his prey. Jiang Yue''s pride shattered in that moment. She couldn''t find her voice. Every attempt at a scream choked in her throat as she stumbled back, terror evident in her eyes.

    "Help... help..." Her voice was barely audible, her desperate gaze fixed on the tform in the distance.

    The spectacle had already caused an uproar among the spectators.

    "Damn, that kid''s a natural!" Elder Yu eximed.

    Elder Wu''s face paled, quickly addressing Yao Qingqian, "His murderous intent... It''s particrly dangerous for someone like Jiang Yue, gifted, but inexperienced."

    "Don''t even say it!" Yao Qingqian''s rage bubbled beneath the surface. She had effortlessly gained the favor of Swordking Ye, and now this upstart threatened her carefullyid ns. "If Jiang Yue and Ye Guao don''t secure the top spots, how will I ever face him?"

    The sound of the p still echoed in her ears. When she looked at Jiang Yue, her face swollen and red, it made her own face ache in sympathy. <i>BANG! </i>Blinded by fury, Yao Qingqian pped the stone chair she sat on. The entire arena trembled under her might. The heads of the elders whipped around to stare at her.

    "What are you gawking at?" Yao Qingqian snapped. The council was baffled, but Elder Wu understood the source of her wrath. The atmosphere shifted ominously.

    Yun Xiao, sensing the change, lifted his gaze and met the scrutinizing stares of the Azure Spirit elders perched at the end of the Heavenly Path. Among them, Yao Qingqian''s eyes were cold as an ice cavern, clearly issuing a silent threat.

    "You trying to intimidate me?" Yun Xiao, ignoring her clear warning, lunged at Jiang Yue, hand raised to deliver another blow. Then, a chilling, sinister aura enveloped him from behind. He felt as though a sea of blood threatened to engulf him. "What in the heavens...?"

    Turning, Yun Xiao was met with a fog of blood. The thick metallic scent filled the air as the mist congealed, forming a grotesque creature of tainted blood. This monstrosity, with multiple arms, sharp ws, and a head resembling a bat, bore bloodthirsty eyes.

    "A blood demon?!" It was a creature Yun Xiao only knew from tales, the embodiment of countless souls lost in battle. ces where these demons roamed were akin to living hells. He recalled a town in Cloud Nation that was once gued by such a creature. When he had arrived there, all 8,000 inhabitants were drained of every drop of blood.

    "The Azure Spirit Sword Sect uses these heartless creatures to test disciples instead of burning their bodies and refining their souls?" For the first time, Yun Xiao doubted the integrity of this esteemed sect. The blood demon, lured by Yun Xiao''s scent, raised a gust of demon wind and charged, shrieking.

    "Blood demon!" Gasps of disbelief resonated from the observation tform.

    "It''s Elder Yao''s doing," Jiang Yue realized, her eyes finding the woman responsible. Quickly regaining herposure, she thought, "Never mind that. I''ll im the top spot first."

    In pursuit of a five-hundred-year-old demon bone, Jiang Yue no longer cared for her pride. Swiftly she ascended the stairway, sprinting towards the end of the Heavenly Path. The sting on her face served as a bitter reminder of her humiliation.

    "That''s at least a two-century-old blood demon. Elder Yao''s skills are legendary," Jiang Yue''s gaze turned cold. Behind her, a storm of demonic winds and blood raged. "He''s a goner. In three breaths, he''ll be nothing but a husk."

    As Jiang Yue hastened her steps, the exit of the path seemed tantalizingly close.

    "One!"

    Suddenly, she heard the icy voice of the young man. What was he counting? Hisst moments? Roars and shes resonated from behind, with the demonic blood almost reaching her, sending chills down her spine.

    "Two!"

    Just as Jiang Yue was certain of his demise, his voice rang out again, sharp and piercing, like a de grazing her ear.

    "What the devil are you counting?" Infuriated, Jiang Yue whipped around. Her eyes widened in shock. Before her stood the young swordsman in white, brandishing a radiant azure de. Crackling resonated as the blood demon screeched in terror under his de. With one swing, multiple arms of the demon were severed, blood spewing forth. Another swing, and the demon was bisected, its blood showering down like rain.

    And at this very moment, it was precisely when Yun Xiao had counted to two. Merely two breaths had passed. The demon was vanquished. Drenched in blood, the young man in white holding the azure de turned his gaze to Jiang Yue.

    "Such strength?" Overwhelmed, Jiang Yue''s knees buckled, and her voice faded. With a scream filled with abject fear, her only instinct was to flee. She was only five steps from the end of the Heavenly Path. Yet, those five steps felt like an eternal journey. Standing before this stairway, once full of confidence and disdain for the world, she had never imagined that thesest steps would be fraught with such peril.

    ''Three!"

    In that moment, a nightmarish voice sounded behind her. Jiang Yue''s strength failed her entirely. With a forceful thud, a blownded on her back. She stumbled, falling face-first onto the ground in a most undignified manner. Of thest five steps, she slid for four while on the ground. Her face, arms, and legs scraped against the stone, leaving startling bloody marks in their wake. Blood smeared her features from every orifice.

    "Damn!" The impact left JIang Yue disoriented, hair wild as a madwoman''s, chest heaving. Blood sprayed from her mouth,nding on the final step of the heavenly path. What had stepped on her back? She knew. It was Yun Xiao''s boot!

    Yun Xiao had called out the third count, rushed forward, stepping over Jiang Yue''s back, the back of her head, and her fingers to ascend the Heavenly Path. He was the first to reach the Sword Inheritance tform.

    "My demon bone relic is gone," Jiang Yue mumbled, bloodied and bruised, her face pressed into the dirt. Tears streamed down her face, her entire being consumed by humiliation. Was this the triumphant ascent she had longed for? It was a sight too pitiable!

    <i>Jiang Yue</i>, Yun Xiao mused coldly without looking back. <i>The day Ye Guying dies, I''ll bring both of your treacherous heads back to Cloud Nation and hang them in the imperial city as a tribute to my people.</i>

    Yun Xiao strode ahead. <i>Think I''d give you an easy death? Dream on! </i>He owed the people justice. While she might be easy to kill, Ye Guying... was a challenge. In his heart, he never considered this heartless woman a worthy adversary on his Immortal Path. She was worthless. She didn''t deserve it.

    "Yun Xiao, you''ve got some balls!" a shout rang out. From the Sword Inheritance tform, seven pairs of intense eyes now bore into him, with Yao Qingqian''s gaze seeming to pierce through Yun Xiao.

    Red Moon blinked in confusion, whispering to Blue Star, "Balls? Why''s she talking about his balls?"

    "Not his actual balls! It''s just a saying! She meant his <i>nerve</i>!" Blue Star corrected, rolling his eyes.

 Chapter 008 - Three Days (1)

    <h4>Chapter 008 - Three Days (1)</h4>

    Yun Xiao looked toward the source of the voice. Standing before him was the woman in the red dress, Yao Qingqian. She had already descended from her stone seat on the First Sword Peak. Her eyes flickered with a depth of indifference and a swirling anger.

    Though Yun Xiao had seen many beauties in the mortal realm, he had never encountered such a cold and elegant female cultivator before. Compared to ordinary people, an aura of immense power surrounded her, giving her an air of natural grace and distinction.

    "Bowing to the esteemed elders," Yun Xiao chose to disregard Yao Qingqian''s fury, offering a salute to the seven elders. The elders surveyed him from head to toe, a hint of admiration hidden in their gazes. What a polite young man!

    "Yun Xiao, do you recognize your wrongdoing?" Yao Qingqian''s chest heaved with rage, her intent to kill evident.

    "I do not." Yun Xiao stood unwavering on the Sword Inheritance tform.

    "You have acted with cruelty upon the Heavenly Path, harming others. Such a disposition is unfit for the righteous path of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect," she thundered, her immense power bearing down on him like a surging ocean, aiming to intimidate.

    "Elder Yao, as far as I know, every journey on the Heavenly Path has a mortality rate of ten percent, mostly resulting from disciples ying each other. I haven''t even killed a dog. How am I cruel by nature?" Yun Xiao replied calmly.

    "How dare you talk back to me?" Murderous intent gleamed even more prominently in Yao Qingqian''s icy eyes.

    "I''m merely stating facts," Yun Xiao''s voice grew colder, "I fail to see why Elder Yao targets me, unless... perhaps you''ve chosen a favorite already?" He pointed to Jiang Yue, who was struggling to rise from the ground, her face smeared with blood. Yun Xiao chuckled, "Surely, it''s not this sort of candidate?"

    "You''re asking for death!" Yao Qingqian seethed, her emotions turbulent.

    But just as tension reached its peak, the portly Elder Yu from the Seventh Sword Peak intervened, positioning himself between Yun Xiao and Yao Qingqian.

    "Alright, alright, let''s keep it civil here, no need to make a scene," Elder Yu interjected, patting Yun Xiao on the shoulder with a hearty chuckle. "Lad, you have the looks, but you also have the gall."

    "I''ve dreamt of joining the Azure Spirit Sword Sect for years," Yun Xiao stated earnestly, "I''m just standing up for what I believe is right."

    Elder Yu shook his head, "Look at you getting all worked up! The beautiful Yao was merely jesting. You really need to lighten up."

    "Yu Xuanzhou," Yao Qingqian shot him a frosty re, "I was not joking!"

    Elder Yu''s jovial expression froze. "Then why on earth...? After all his trials and tribtions to get here, you want him to leave? Is this Jiang Yue a distant rtive of yours?"

    The other elders exchanged uneasy nces, all but the stern-faced Elder Wu Yu of the Third Sword Peak, who stood unwaveringly by Yao Qingqian''s side.

    "Yu Xuanzhou, perhaps if you spoke a little less, you might live a tad longer," Yao Qingqian huffed.

    "Yes, you''ve one more mouth than me, which makes you the glibber one," Elder Yu murmured under his breath, ensuring Yao Qingqian couldn''t hear him.

    Yao Qingqian shot onest re at the assembly, seemingly giving up on her vendetta against Yun Xiao. She quickly helped Jiang Yue up, taking out a jade bottle and pouring out several pill-like substances, white as ivory. She administered some to Jiang Yue and applied the rest externally. Up close, the injured girl looked like she had been mauled, each gash resembling a bloody centipede.

    Yao Qingqian was livid. "If it weren''t for the fact that it would get out, I would''ve chopped up that brat here and now!" she gritted her teeth. But face was everything, or else she would''ve been more ruthless.

    "Elder Yao, it was myck of skill," Jiang Yue said dejectedly.

    "Whatck of skill? Don''t overthink it. He just has morebat experience," Yao Qingqian consoled her. "In the path of cultivation, given enough time, anyone can acquire experience, and it''s hardly worth much. Talent, my dear, determines how far one can go."

    "Indeed! I''ve only truly explored the way of the Immortals for three months. I haven''t had muchbat experience before," Jiang Yuemented.

    "It''s alright," Yao Qingqian assured, pointing gently toward a distinct spot. "Look over there" Following the direction of her gesture, Jiang Yue''s gazended beyond the eight stone chairs where a tform rose. On that tform rested arge, rounded stone, bearing the engraving of the Taiji, the symbol of yin and yang. A ck fish on the left and its white counterpart on the right.

    "That there''s the Sword Inheritance Stone," Yao Qingqian informed with a hint of pride.

    "I''ve heard Brother Ye mention it. Does it test the quality of one''s Sword Soul?" Jiang Yue asked, her eyes glinting with curiosity.

    "Indeed! He reckons your Ice Moon Sword Soul might be of the Upper Comet grade. Do you grasp the weight of that?" Yao Qingqian asked, her eyes bright with admiration.

    Jiang Yue shook her head, "I confess, I don''t."

    "That stone tests to its very limits," Yao Qingqian began, leaning in with intensity. "Which means, my dear, that you''re among the top talents of Azure Spirit. Should you make that stone shine a deep orange hue, its brilliance will illuminate the mountains, drawing the eyes of our entire sect. Why, you''d no longer need to strive for the top in the Heavenly Path, as you''d dazzle them all by just being the prodigy you are, and enter the Azure Spirit with unparalleled fame!"

    A flush of determination, missing until now, raced back into Jiang Yue''s previously dimmed eyes. "Splendid!"

    "And should Elder Yu learn of your Upper Comet grade, he''d regret his earlier words so deep, he''d feel it in his very bones," Yao Qingqian added with a sly smirk.

    "He presumed I was of a lower grade?" Jiang Yue nced disdainfully at Elder Yu.

    Yao Qingqian took her hand, her tone bing serious, "What you must understand, dear sister, is that today''s defeat to a rogue is but a trifle. He''s not of your world. You''re destined for greatness in Azure Spirit, while he remains a mere nobody. Don''t let one setback cloud your heart."

    A tearful Jiang Yue whispered, "Thank you, Elder Yao."

    "Please, just call me Sister Yao," Yao Qingqian replied softly. She secretly hoped this bond would serve as a damper to Ye Guying''s anger.

    "Yes, Sister Yao." Jiang Yue''s eyes, full of expectation, darted towards the Sword Inheritance Stone. "When do I get to take the test?"

    "Patience," Yao Qingqian replied, her gaze coldly passing over Yun Xiao. "Once the ten new disciples are finalized, you''ll all be tested. Then, this reckless, short-lived wretch will realize how insignificant he ispared to you."

    Jiang Yue nodded. She found herself anticipating Yun Xiao''s reaction. For some reason, she desperately wanted to overshadow this young man, and it wasn''t just because of his earlier ruthlessness. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that his name was also Yun Xiao...

    About half an hourter, the ten new disciples were finalized.

    "Where''s Ye Guao?" Yao Qingqian genuinely hadn''t expected that the braggart wouldn''t even make it to the Stone Path. "He''s nowhere near his brother." Resigned, Yao Qingqian started by distributing the rewards for the Heavenly Path. Then she led the ten new disciples to the Sword Inheritance Stone.

    "First ce, Yun Xiao." The moment Yao Qingqian presented the five-century-old demonic bone, her face twitched. It was sealed inside a cloth bag, but the fierce demonic aura seeped out, filling the air.

    Yun Xiao took it, opening the bag to inspect its contents. Withiny a dark purple bone, covered in blood-red patterns, emanating an overwhelming aura of malevolence. "Five hundred years, this is a Demon King''s bone," he remarked with appreciation. And the Demon King, it was known, was a significant menace in the mortal world.

    In the heart of the Divine Continent, at the famed Azure Spirit Sword Sect, a potent demonic bone capable of vanquishing millionsy in the hands of Yun Xiao. Such a treasure in the hands of a novice was nothing short of a waste, or so many believed.

    Jiang Yue''s heart, already fragile, tore a little more at the sight. Still, she took sce in the fact that Yao Qingqian was preparing the group for the test upon the mighty Sword Inheritance Stone. Her time was approaching.

    Ten fresh disciples gathered beneath the massive stone. "This..." Yao Qingqian said, her voice chilly as winter''s first frost, "is the Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone. Do you see the two <i>fish eyes</i> on it?"

    "Sure do," a disciple called back.

    "Those are the sword cavities of the stone," Yao Qingqian continued. "Pair up, and each duo will ce their Sword Souls into the ck and white cavities. The stone will harness the yin-yang forces of heaven and earth, channeling it into both Sword Souls. Depending on the quality of your Sword Soul, the stone will show different colors."

    It was apetition, a tug of war between the forces of yin and yang. A single test would reveal the strengths of two souls.

    Both the ck fish and white fish would change colors. If there was a considerable gap in talent between the two, the mental pressure on the lesser talented was intense.

    "Alright," a disciple murmured, anxiety evident in his voice. In fact, many of them were in the same boat. There was only one Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone in the whole of Azure Spirit. So, none of them knew the quality of their Sword Souls.

    Yao Qingqian continued, "For Meteor grade Sword Souls, there are three tiers¡ªlight red, red, and deep red. For Comet grade, there are also three¡ªlight orange, orange, and deep orange."

    Perhaps with the intent to humble Yun Xiao, Yao Qingqian paired him with Jiang Yue. She wanted the stone to glow deep orange for Jiang Yue, indicating Upper quality, not just light orange.

    The testing began. As expected, the initial groups disyed Meteor grade Sword Souls, with the stone glowing various shades of red. The most talented among them had their Sword Soul shine a brilliant deep red, drawing praises from the elders.

    The moment came for Yun Xiao and Jiang Yue. "Yun Xiao," Jiang Yue said, her voice as cold as winter''s edge. "Today''s humiliation will be returned tenfold."

    "Do you think you''re up to it?" Yun Xiao sneered in response, his contempt palpable.

    "Enough!" Yao Qingqian interrupted, anticipation gleaming in her eyes. "Yun Xiao, Jiang Yue, step forward."

    The duo took their positions, with all eyes upon them. The desire for unparalleled excellence burned in Jiang Yue''s eyes. Compared to the Heavenly Path, this stone was her real chance at proving herself.

    "Summon your Sword Souls," Yao Qingqian directed, her gaze lingering coldly on Yun Xiao before softening slightly towards Jiang Yue.

    From their palms, their Sword Souls soared. Jiang Yue''s Sword Soul, radiant like an icy moon, rotated with threeyers of Sword Aura. It gleamed coldly, the sword''s keen cry piercing the air. A soul of unparalleled quality.

    Yun Xiao''s, on the other hand, was a faint shade of blue, rotating with just a singleyer. It looked extremely ordinary! To any keen observer, the disparity between their Sword Souls was palpable. It was akin toparing a modest vige hut to a grand castle.

    "The Divine Pir..." Yao Qingqian turned gracefully towards the distance, her posture solemn. She murmured a chant under her breath, "Oh revered Sword Ancestor, today your disciples Jiang Yue and Yun Xiao are here before the Sword Inheritance Stone, seeking entry into the Azure Spirit Sword Sect." This ritual not only measured the quality of their Sword Souls but also marked their formal initiation.

    "The Divine Pir...?" Yun Xiao''s eyes danced with a curious glint. He had heard that all Sword Cultivators in thend paid their respects to this very pir. Legend held that the pir was where Sword Souls originated, often referred to as the Sword Ancestor. Its majestic form resembled a sword piercing the heavens, bing an emblem of faith for Sword Cultivators everywhere.

    Though the Divine Pir had vanished, Yao Qingqian performed the ceremony undeterred.

    "You''re facing the wrong direction," Yun Xiao remarked, a hint of amusement in his voice, watching her elegant retreating figure.

    "What did you say?" Jiang Yue shot him a fleeting nce.

    "I said, my Sword Soul is the Divine Pir of the Divine Continent," Yun Xiao replied with a light chuckle.

    Jiang Yue shook her head, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "I guess you drank too much seawater from the Eastern Sea."

    At this, Yao Qingqian turned back and instructed, "Jiang Yue, Yun Xiao, ce your Sword Souls into the cavities of the Sword Inheritance Stone!"

    Without hesitation, Jiang Yue advanced and gently ced her Sword Soul into the ck fish cavity of the stone. Yun Xiao, on the other hand, chose the white fish. The ck and white fish, reminiscent of the Yin and Yang, activated their force, drawing in the energies of the world, focusing it upon the Sword Souls. A challenge was set. Which Sword would reign supreme?

    "Can this Sword Inheritance Stone handle my Heaven Burial Sword Soul?" Yun Xiao mused. A resonating hum vibrated through the air as the world''s Yin and Yang energies began to envelop and unravel Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "It has to be deep orange!" Yao Qingqian whispered, leaning over expectantly, her gaze fixed on the ck fish part of the stone.

    "Is it almost done?" Yun Xiao noted the slight disturbance in his Sword Soul and quickly turned his attention. Suddenly, a tremor passed through the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. The energies encasing it retracted in rm, scuttling back to the stone, leaving behind a trail of blue mist that swiftly fused with the Sword Inheritance Stone.

    "Did something go wrong?" Panic shed across Yun Xiao''s face. Upon the blue mist''s entrance, the Sword Inheritance Stone began to shudder violently.

    "What''s happening?!" Yao Qingqian eximed, rm evident in her voice.

 Chapter 009 - Three Days (2)

    <h4>Chapter 009 - Three Days (2)</h4>

    The effect was contagious. Jiang Yue''s side too felt the repercussions. The entire stone, both the ck and white fish, was consumed in a tempestuous surge of blue mist.

    A mournful wail erupted from the Sword Inheritance Stone, transitioning from a subdued ck and white to a torrential outpour of blue mist. An overwhelming aura of impending doom swept over Yun Xiao, Jiang Yue, and Yao Qingqian, pressing down on them like an insurmountable weight.

    A wave of force expelled them backward, feet scraping the ground as they tried to find their bnce. Before Yao Qingqian could stabilize herself, her eyes widened in horror as the Sword Inheritance Stone developed wide cracks, fracturing from within.

    "It''s copsing!" The elders around them eximed. And then, with a deafening explosion, the Sword Inheritance Stone disintegrated, not even leaving behind any debris. All that remained was a cloud of dust. The impact of this explosion caused not only the Sword Inheritance tform but also the very earth to tremble violently. The sound was so loud that it reverberated across the Azure Spirit Mountains, causing leaves from the forest of the Heavenly Path to scatter in the wind.

    "The Sword Inheritance Stone... It''s destroyed!" The elders rubbed their eyes in disbelief.

    "This is a catastrophe!" Elder Yu''s forehead glistened with sweat, his voice shaky.

    "Throughout the history of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, the Sword Inheritance Stone has never shattered. Do you know what this implies?" The elders turned their stunned gazes towards Yun Xiao and Jiang Yue.

    "It means someone''s Sword Soul might surpass the Comet grade!"

    But what did surpassing the Comet grade mean?

    "Today is truly an eye-opener," the elders gasped, the weight of realization making it hard to breathe.

    "Have I been exposed?" Yun Xiao sighed. Holding talent was like being pregnant; it couldn''t be hidden. From the expressions of the elders, he could gauge the magnitude of the situation.

    Suddenly, the skies roared, clouds tumbled, and the air was filled with the echoing sound of swords. Looking up, Yun Xiao spotted over a dozen enormous swords breaking through the wind, piercing the clouds, and approaching rapidly. The aura emanating from them was overwhelming, reminiscent of thousands of swords slicing through the heavens. Near the Sword Inheritance tform, trees and rocks were mysteriously marked with shes as if touched by an invisible sword.

    "Woah! Who''s that?" Yun Xiao wondered. Almost immediately, brilliant sword rays descended from the sky, embedding themselves into the tform.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed, realizing that these neers were powerful beyond measure. They had to be from the higher echelons of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    Among them, one figure stood out. A middle-aged man, tall and aloof, with long eyebrows extending to his temples, a sharp nose, and an aura resembling that of a wandering eagle. His eyes seemed to hold an entire sea of swords.

    The elders instantly bowed. "Greetings, Sword Venerable!"

    Including Elder Yu, all of them bowed their heads in reverence. A few even took a step back, beads of sweat appearing on their foreheads.

    "Sword Venerable?" Yun Xiao mused. He was undeniably a big shot in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    But it wasn''t just the Sword Venerable. The young men and women following him were also exceptional. Dressed in sword robes, exuding an extraordinary aura, deep cultivation, and surrounded by swirling sword energy, they represented the elite young sword cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. In every regard, new disciples like Yun Xiao were dwarfed inparison.

    "The shattering of the Sword Inheritance Stone has even drawn the attention of the Sword Venerable from the First Peak..." a disciple murmured in hushed amazement.

    "The Sword Venerable of the First Peak?" Yun Xiao mused. "Ye Guying is titled Swordking of the First Peak. He must have some significant connection with this Sword Venerable."

    Sure enough, Yao Qingqian stepped forward to greet him, her face painted with reverence. "Qingqian pays her respects to the Sword Venerable."

    The Sword Venerable didn''t spare her a nce. His eyes, sharp and keen like those of a hawk, swept over the crowd and locked onto one individual¡ªnot Yun Xiao, but Jiang Yue beside him.

    "Come here," the Sword Venerable''s voice rang out, sounding like steel scraping against steel, inducing an involuntary shiver in those who heard.

    "Yes, Sword Venerable." A tremor ran through Jiang Yue as she dutifully approached him.

    "Kneel," the Sword Venerablemanded, his gaze unwavering.

    Without hesitation, Jiang Yue sank to her knees, sweat glistening on her palms.

    "Your name," his voice echoed from above.

    "Jiang Yue."

    "Lift your head."

    Jiang Yue hesitated, her gaze only reaching his chest, unwilling to meet his eyes directly. But to her surprise, the Sword Venerable bent down slightly, a small smile ying on his lips, and his piercing gaze softened.

    "Jiang Yue, would you be willing to be my direct disciple?"

    Overwhelmed with tion, Jiang Yue realized that this was the <i>important figure</i> her Senior Brother Ye had mentioned to her. He wasn''t present on the Sword Inheritance tform, but he had been observing the Sword Inheritance Stone!

    "To have the Sword Venerable as my guide on the path of an Immortal is the greatest fortune of my three lives," Jiang Yue eximed, bowing her head in deep reverence.

    "Very well! From this day, you are my thirteenth disciple. I shall guide you to soar through the skies!" the Sword Venerable dered, satisfaction evident in his demeanor.

    Several awe-inspiring young men and women behind the Sword Venerable looked at Jiang Yue with amazement in their eyes. "Greetings, little junior sister."

    "Jiang Yue offers her greetings to all senior brothers and sisters." Jiang Yue gazed at them with admiration, seeing them as beings like Ye Guying, soaring through the heavens and beyond the mundane. She could see her future self among them. Her destiny had irrevocably changed.

    "Jiang Yue," said the Sword Venerable, his mood buoyant. From his hand appeared a small blue jade vial. Even though it was tiny, it felt as if it contained an entire vast ocean. When shaken, the sound of waves could be heard. "This is the Divine Sea Pill, my gift to you as you begin your journey."

    The appearance of this item caused the seven elders'' eyes to widen in shock. Even the young Sword Cultivators behind the Sword Venerable paused for a moment, their eyes gleaming with intense envy.

    "A Divine Sea Pill!" Elder Yu eximed, his eyes wide as saucers. "Such generosity from the Sword Venerable, gifting such a treasure upon their first meeting."

    "This pill is worth at least ten times that of the five-hundred-year-old demonic bone!"

    "Ten times? Are you joking? There''s only one Divine Sea Pill in the entire Azure Spirit Sword Sect! This is a coveted item that allows a novice at the Dragon Spring stage to rapidly ascend to the ''Divine Sea Realm''!"

    The elders started murmuring amongst themselves.

    Such a weing gift was like a thunderbolt out of the blue. It was said that the Dragon Spring Realm was the only stage where one could rely on a pill to achieve rapid breakthroughs.

    "Thank you, Master! I will certainly not let you down and will swiftly expand my Dragon Spring and step into the Divine Sea Realm!" Jiang Yue''s heart raced, barely suppressing her overwhelming joy. A single Divine Sea Pill was enough to sweep away all her frustrations and suffocations from today!

    Her obedient demeanor and reverent tone left Yun Xiao deeply impressed. At the very least, he wouldn''t kneel and bow as she did. Still, he was a bit perplexed. "It was me who shattered the Sword Inheritance Stone. So, why did the Sword Venerable take her as a disciple and grant her the divine pill as soon as he arrived?"

    All envious eyes were on Jiang Yue!

    "Lil Yue, let me see your Sword Soul," the Sword Venerable smiled.

    Jiang Yue presented her Sword Soul.

    "Sword Venerable, it''s this Ice Moon Sword Soul that exceeded the limits of the Sword Inheritance Stone and caused its explosion!" Yao Qingqian, standing behind the Swordmaster, eximed with admiration in her tone.

    "Hmm." The Sword Venerable nodded, caressing the sword. Ayer of frost formed on his fingers. A hint of confusion shed in his eyes. But it dissipated quickly. He remarked, "In history, the highest grade of the Ice Moon Sword Soul was Upper Comet grade. I truly didn''t expect that there would be an Ice Moon Sword Spirit in this world that surpasses that quality."

    "Could it be Moon grade? In the history of Azure Spirit, we''ve never had a Moon grade Sword Soul prodigy!" Yao Qingqian was astounded. In her mind, she added, <i>Not even Ye Guying possesses a Moon grade!</i>

    "It might be even more than that." The Sword Venerable''s statement left Yao Qingqian stunned.

    "Our Azure Spirit''s stone is a Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone. Logically speaking, even if her Sword Soul was of the Moon grade, it shouldn''t have been shattered," the Sword Venerablemented, gazing intently at the Ice Moon Sword Soul.

    "Could it be... grade?" Yao Qingqian uttered, nearly breathless. It all made sense to her now. This was why the Sword Venerable took Jiang Yue as his disciple and granted her the Divine Sea Pill, a treasure yearned for by all his disciples, on their very first meeting! A talent of the Comet grade was one touched by the heavens. But if one reached the grade, they''d step into the realm of legends.

    A hint of a smile yed on the Sword Venerable''s lips at the mention of grade.

    "With the Sword Inheritance Stone destroyed, I must request a Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone from the Sea of Swords. Whether Lil Yue''s Sword Soul is of Moon or grade, the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone will reveal it all," the Sword Venerable mused, affectionately ruffling Jiang Yue''s hair. She reveled in his touch.

    "How long until then?" Yao Qingqian''s anticipation was palpable. She was eager to see the luminance of the Ice Moon Sword Soul illuminate the heavens.

    "In three days, during the Seven Swords Conve, It should arrive by then," the Sword Venerable replied nonchntly.

    "Why not unveil it on the day of the Seven Swords Conve''s final battle? The entire Azure Spirit Sword Sect will witness the birth of the first genius to surpass the Comet grade," Yao Qingqian proposed.

    The next Swordking Ye? In her heart, Yao Qingqian believed that even Ye Guying might one day seek Jiang Yue''s favor.

    Moon grade, grade¡ªsuch concepts were iprehensible!

    The unveiling of the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone would send shockwaves through the nations.

    "Yao Qingqian, you have a knack for suspense and setting the mood," the Sword Venerable teased with a sidelong nce.

    "Jiang Yue is your direct disciple, Master. Her triumphs reflect on you," Yao Qingqian retorted yfully with a coquettish smile.

    "Very well! We''ll test Lil Yue''s Sword Soul on the day of the Seven Swords Conve," he dered, hisughter deep and hearty.

    "All of Azure Spirit will witness my ascent?" Overwhelmed with emotion, Jiang Yue felt as if her spirit might take flight.

    The Seven Swords Conve! That was a grand spectacle of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect that evenmon mortals heard tales of. And it was only in three days! Could it be that she, a mere daughter of a Prime Minister, had a Sword Soul beyond the esteemed Comet grade?

    "What the hell...?!" When it finally dawned on Yun Xiao, he was a touch bbergasted. Did his shattering of the Sword Stone inadvertently catapult Jiang Yue to stardom?

    "Hold on a minute," Yun Xiao turned to Elder Yu beside him, "We both had our Sword Souls measured, so why am I being treated like a ghost?"

    Elder Yu, already drenched in sweat from Jiang Yue''s revtion, tried to regain someposure. "Show me your Sword Soul," he rasped, hand outstretched.

    Yun Xiao presented his Sword Soul cautiously, "Careful there, wouldn¡¯t want it to cut you." This Heaven Burial Sword Soul was harmless enough when held, but a slight cut could corrode flesh and blood.

    Elder Yu barely gave it a second nce before waving Yun Xiao off dismissively.

    "Well?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Nothing special," Elder Yu shrugged nonchntly.

    "What''s that supposed to mean?" Yun Xiao said.

    Elder Yu, massaging his forehead in exasperation, responded, "Isn''t this just a Green Lotus Sword Soul? It''s amon, low rarity Meteor grade Sword Soul. Over at my Seventh Sword Peak, I reckon I''ve got close to a hundred Sword Cultivators with the very same one."

    Yun Xiao was rendered speechless. Green Lotus Sword Soul? Almost a hundred of them? That was indeed prettymonce. No wonder no one paid any mind. Just by its appearance, it surely paled inparison to the frosty majesty of the Ice Moon Sword Soul.

    "Three days until the Seven Swords Conve!" Elder Yu said, his voice tinged with awe, not paying Yun Xiao any mind. He gazed at the young woman with a mixture of reverence and wonder. "Once tested with the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, whether she embodies the grace of the Moon or the terrifying might of the, she''ll etch her name into the annals of Azure Spirit''s history!"

    Yun Xiao pondered in the shadows. "Maybe they can test me again during the event?" He wondered if the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone could withstand the intensity of his Sword Soul. After all, as long as he wasn¡¯t juxtaposed with Jiang Yue, she would reveal her true mediocrity. By then, all these overconfident folks would be the joke of the town. Especially the ever-so-lofty Jiang Yue.

    "The higher she soars now," Yun Xiao mused, a smirk ying on his lips, "the harder she''ll crash in three days." He was unfazed by the day''s events. Besides, the Sword Venerable and Ye Guying were peas in a pod. Thankfully, Jiang Yue took the heat today, or else he''d have had a bone to pick with them.

    "There''s just one issue," Blue Star whispered from his embrace. "Because of you, she now possesses an additional Divine Sea Pill."

    "A crow can gobble up countless phoenix pills, but it''ll always remain a crow." Yun Xiao chuckled. Then he said with a confident smile, "No matter how high she flies, a single swing of my de will bring her plummeting down."

 Chapter 010 - Skin Him Alive!

    <h4>Chapter 010 - Skin Him Alive!</h4>

    After epting Jiang Yue as a new disciple and bestowing her with a Divine Sea Pill, the Sword Venerable and his entourage seemed to have urgent matters to attend to and took their leave. The Sword Cultivators soared into the sky, leaving behind a trail of light. Left in their wake was a disciple of the Sword Venerable named Wang Feng. He was tasked with escorting Jiang Yue to the First Sword Peak and helping her adjust to the lifestyle of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    "Twelfth Brother, wait up a moment for me," Jiang Yue called out to a young man in an orange sword robe.

    The youth, graceful as a dandy, radiated warmth. He smiled and nodded at Jiang Yue, his eyes filled with admiration.

    Without missing a beat, Jiang Yue strode forward, her movements like the sweep of frost, and stopped before Yun Xiao. "Regretting your choice?" she asked, chin lifted with an air of indifference.

    "Regret? Never imagined your Sword Soul to be this terrifying. It''s like watching a young calf learn swordsmanship¡ªutterly astonishing," Yun Xiao replied with a grin and a thumbs-up.

    "Crude!" Jiang Yue shot back, her teeth clenched. "You might not fear me now, but for the insult you gave, I promise... a tenfold return."

    "And how will that be?" Yun Xiao sneered inwardly.

    "Figure out a way to participate in the Seven Swords Conve. Unlike you, I''ll y fair and square. I won''t resort to cheap tactics to take you down," Jiang Yue dered proudly.

    "The Seven Swords Conve, another stage for you to steal the spotlight?" Yun Xiao teased.

    A vein popped up on her forehead. Jiang Yue presented him with a smile that didn''t quite reach her eyes and shot back, "Sparrows might chirp, but they''ll never understand the song of the swan." She then turned around and said no more. In her eyes, this white-robed youth was but a minor blemish on her path of cultivation. Once she soared higher, he would be easily wiped away.

    As Jiang Yue spoke with Yun Xiao, the disciple named Wang Feng was having a whispered conversation with Yao Qingqian. "Sister Yao, what''s the history between those two?" he asked, squinting at Yun Xiao.

    "That young man stole Jiang Yue''s top spot in the Heavenly Path and injured her," Yao Qingqian replied with a cold huff and smirk.

    "Really?" A sharp gleam danced in Wang Feng''s eyes. "He''s quite rough for his looks!"

    "These arrogant upstarts are a dime a dozen in the mortal world," Yao Qingqian said with disdain.

    "Very true," Wang Feng''s eyes lit up. "Speaking of which, I''ve been practicing a new technique called the Skin Peeling Art. It allows precise control of the Sword Soul to strip off the entire human skin, just like skinning a frog... And I''ve beenmenting that I couldn''t find a <i>frog</i>."

    "Will the person die once their skin''s peeled?" Yao Qingqian asked, her interest piqued.

    "Of course not! They''ll still be hopping around, wailing in agony," Wang Feng replied with a gleeful chuckle.

    "Oh?" Yao Qingqian giggled, "What a waste for the boy, he has such good-looking skin. To think he''de to Azure Spirit without first learning about the path of Immortals."

    "For every Immortal made, ten thousand bones wither! The unskilled ones? A single mistake, and they perish," Wang Feng added with a menacing grin. He knew these rules all too well. But neers often didn''t. Underestimating the Azure Spirit Sword Sect right from the start? A misstep could result in a horrific end.

    "Sister Yao, once he picks a Sword Peak, let me know. I''ll pay him a little night time visit for some <i>frog-catching</i>''" Wang Feng said, his sunny smile in stark contrast to his words.

    "Keep it down, will you?" Yao Qingqian scolded lightly.

    "Of course. Consider it a wee gift for our little junior sister," Wang Feng promised.

    But as Yao Qingqian heard this, her smile faded. Seeing Jiang Yue approaching, she whispered, "Just a heads-up, Jiang Yue was brought back by Swordking Ye."

    "Him?" Wang Feng''s face changed instantly, a trace of fear evident in his eyes. "Didn''t he already have a partner? He''s really that greedy?"

    "Just keep that in mind," Yao Qingqian cautioned.

    "Fine!" Wang Feng''s mood sank, his eyes growing even colder.

    However, the moment Wang Feng reunited with Jiang Yue, he instantly transformed back into that sunny young man. Together, they soared away, flying on their swords through the clouds, resembling a pair of ethereal lovebirds.

    Of course, Jiang Yue wasn''t adept at sword flying yet. So, it was Wang Feng who held her slim waist, letting her stand on his Sword Soul, as they soared together through the sky. Indeed, it was as if they were flying straight to the heavens.

    With Wang Feng''s departure, the remaining new disciples of Azure Spirit heaved a sigh of relief. The oppressive aura from a disciple of Wang Feng''s stature was truly overwhelming for these neers.

    "You nine, each of you choose a Sword Peak," Yao Qingqian said, one hand on her waist. Pointing to a young man in the crowd, shemanded, "Lin Yan, you can go to the First Sword Peak. The rest of you, don''t even think about it."

    The young man she chose was the third on the Heavenly Path and possessed an Upper Meteor grade Sword Soul. From her proud words, it was clear that the First Sword Peak was a ce where every disciple wanted to be, holding the privilege of priority choice. The other Sword Peaks were probably roughly equal to each other in status.

    After Yao Qingqian finished speaking, the rest of the new disciples quickly chose their future affiliations. All but Yun Xiao. When Yun Xiao looked at the seven elders, they coughed awkwardly and gazed up at the sky.

    "Yun Xiao, I want to discuss something with you," Elder Yu stepped forward, taking Yun Xiao by the arm and leading him to the edge of the Sword Inheritance tform.

    "Please speak, Elder Yu." Yun Xiao had a decent impression of this Seventh Sword Peak elder.

    "What do you think of me, old Yu?" Elder Yu asked him seriously.

    "Elder Yu is fair and just," Yun Xiao replied.

    "When you first arrived and Yao Qingqian targeted you, I spoke up for you, right?" It seemed that this was what Elder Yu wanted to hear.

    Yun Xiao was momentarily taken aback before slowly nodding in agreement. "In light of that favor, help me out with something," Elder Yu said.

    "Tell me."

    "Don''t choose my Seventh Sword Peak," Elder Yu gritted his teeth.

    He was about to borate when Yun Xiao simply responded, "Alright."

    Elder Yu shot Yun Xiao with a conflicted look. "Young man, I''m truly sorry. I appreciate you, truly. Even if Jiang Yue had a Mid Comet grade Sword Soul, I would''ve had your back. But the thing is..." The thing was, she exceeded the Comet grade. She shattered the Sword Inheritance Stone, breaking Azure Spirit Sword Sect''s long-standing record.

    Yun Xiao chuckled softly, "There''s no need, Elder Yu. It''s human nature."

    Elder Yu sighed deeply. "I can''t bring a cmity to the Seventh Sword Peak. Do you understand me?"

    "I do." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Thank you," Elder Yu bowed slightly.

    "It''s nothing," Yun Xiao replied. A cmity? To linger on the topic would be pointless. As Elder Yu turned around, expecting to see the other Sword Peak Elders standing by, he found them gone, save for him and Yao Qingqian. They had slipped away, fearing Yun Xiao might choose them.

    "What the--?" Elder Yu was bbergasted.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh. <i>Cultivators, though they fight against destiny, can be even more selfish and pragmatic than ordinary folk. </i>He gazed up at the cloud shrouded peaks of the sect with a wistful look on his face. <i>I once had an illusion about the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. I thought cultivators were these saintly figures, traveling across the world, ridding it of monsters. I thought Ye Guying was an anomaly, a rotten apple. Turns out, here, he''s just run of the mill.</i>

    Even so, Yun Xiao was determined to join the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. After all, he didn¡¯te here to champion justice. He came to kill and to hone his killing skills.

    <i>The issue is, with the Seventh Sword Peak off-limits and the other peaks having bolted, who do I choose?</i> Yun Xiao''s gaze inevitablynded on the central, most majestic of the eight stone chairs. The Sword Pavilion! Today, no one from the Sword Pavilion was present.

    <i>The Azure Spirit Sword Sect has one Sword Pavilion and seven Sword Peaks. The Sword Pavilion should be the most powerful lineage, right?</i> Yun Xiao recalled. During his reign over the Cloud Nation, he was quite fond of gathering information about the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. But sadly, hecked a Sword Soul. So, he asked, "Elder Yu, why is there no one from the Sword Pavilion?"

    "The Sword Pavilion?" Elder Yu seemed taken aback by the question. "There aren''t many left alive in the Sword Pavilion."

    "Not alive? They died?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "You want to choose the Sword Pavilion?" Elder Yu inquired anxiously. With the other elders having skedaddled, and Yun Xiao still umitted, the old man feared an unforeseen twist.

    "I choose the Sword Pavilion," Yun Xiao dered.

    Upon hearing this, both Elder Yu and Yao Qingqian visibly rxed. Neither voiced it, but both seemingly wished for Yun Xiao to pick the Sword Pavilion.

    "I''ve heard that the Sword Pavilion is the foremost lineage of Azure Spirit," Yun Xiao remarked, eyeing the stone chair, its surface scarred with marks, emanating an aura of a sharp sword.

    "Three years ago, an incident in the Sword Pavilion shocked thousands of nations. You haven''t heard?" Elder Yu asked.

    Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "You''ll find out once you¡¯re there," Elder Yu replied, his lips pressed tightly.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded.

    Elder Yu gave Yun Xiao''s shoulder a light pat, hesitated for a moment, and finally said, "Once you be a disciple of the Sword Pavilion and enter the mountain... Start by paying respects at the graves."

    "Graves?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    "Yes. They''re all gone," a trace of sorrow shed in Elder Yu''s eyes.

    "Gone?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Yes," Elder Yu replied.

    Yun Xiao''s curiosity was piqued. What kind of ce was he getting into? Why was Elder Yu being so cryptic?

    "Can you find your way to the Sword Pavilion on your own?" Elder Yu asked.

    Yun Xiao understood. Given today¡¯s peculiar situation, the amount Elder Yu had already shared was more than generous.

    "No problem," Yun Xiao replied, sensing Elder Yu¡¯s urgency. The old man probably wanted to apologize to Yao Qingqian.

    "Onest question. What is the Seven Swords Conve?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "In simple terms, it¡¯s where Sword Cultivatorspete for resources, vying for dominance in Azure Spirit. The Sword Venerable giving Jiang Xue the Divine Sea Pill? It¡¯s all to ensure her meteoric rise during the Seven Swords Conve, cementing the First Sword Peak¡¯s unrivaled position," Elder Yu replied. He sighed. "With such a pill, who could possibly rival such a favored daughter of the heavens?"

    Elder Yu cast onest nce at him, "Lad, be realistic. Your one defeat over her in this lifetime? Consider it a blessing of three lifetimes."

    Yun Xiao burst intoughter.

    "Goodbye, Elder Yu." He gave a respectful bow, and then, without hesitation, leaped off the Sword Inheritance tform, heading toward the Azure Spirit Mountains, leaving a trail of dust in his wake. Before long, he vanished into the sea of trees, not once looking back.

    Yao Qingqian lightly rolled her eyes, her voice dripping with irony. "Off he goes to the Sword Pavilion, like a moth to a me."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    A few hourster, Yun Xiao managed to navigate the sprawling, magnificent expanse of the Azure Spirit Mountains. And after making some inquiries, he finally arrived at the base of the Sword Pavilion.

    The Sword Pavilion stood tall on Azure Spirit''s main peak, a ce of unique significance within the sect. The mountain before him was like a gargantuan de, piercing the sky. The trees that crowned it were straight and tall as pines, their postures reminiscent of upright swords, exuding an aura of righteousness.

    "This truly befits a main peak, impressive," Yun Xiao murmured, as he made his way through the trees, beginning his ascent. Taking a deep breath, he felt a rush of immense spiritual energy flood his being. The Dragon Spring in his Dantian churned, invigorating and refreshing his senses.

    "Such a blessednd, brimming with boundless spiritual energy. Cultivation here would surely yield twice the results with half the effort," Yun Xiao mused. It was iparably better than the mundane world.

    By dusk, Yun Xiao reached the summit. Looking ahead, through a thick mist of white clouds, he saw elegant pavilions that seemed to float in the air, much like the heavenly pces described in mortal tales. That was the renowned Sword Pavilion!

    "Almost there," Yun Xiao murmured to himself as he followed a pathway made of bluish stone steps. The refreshing breeze, delicate clouds, the fresh scent of forest flora, the crisp chirping of birds, and the mist that wetted his long hair and white robes made him feel right at home. It was peaceful, profound, and ethereal¡ªprecisely the ambiance he dreamt of in his younger days when he envisioned the path of an Immortal.

    "But the journey..." Yun Xiao sighed. "It''s far bloodier and more ferocious than I ever imagined." He shook his head, determination in his eyes. ¡°I am but a lone traveler, free of attachments. I''ve stared death in the face. If someone opposes me, I''ll y one to gain another. Why should I fear?"

    After having tasted death once, Yun Xiao no longer yearned for the mortal realm. "For the rest of my life, all I seek is enlightenment, all I desire is exhration!" To him, Jiang Yue, the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, the Divine Sea Pill... all of it felt as fragile as paper, ready to be pierced at any moment. His white robes fluttered, casting a shadow over the green mountains.

    "What''s that?" Yun Xiao suddenly paused, his gaze sharp. Before him, on a barren plot, stood seven graves. Mounds of earth, grave markers, and ceremonial offerings wereid out in a line. Atop each mound was a sword sheath. Inside each sheath, it seemed as though a demonic spirit was imprisoned. Ferocious faces emerged, snarling at Yun Xiao.

    Looking closer, the inscriptions on the grave markers caught his attention. A mncholy and majestic atmosphere emanated from those words, resonating deeply within him. Each marker was inscribed with blood, every stroke depicting profound sorrow.

    From left to right they read:

    "Beloved disciple, Grave of Qin Qingcheng."

    "Beloved disciple, Grave of Li Qingwei."

    "Beloved disciple, Grave of Du Qinghai."

    ...

    "Beloved disciple, Grave of Cai Qingyun."

    There were seven graves in total. Seven beloved disciples whose first names started with Qing. The same <i>Qing </i>that represented <i>Azure</i> in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Each of the grave markers had inscriptions deeply etched, symbolizing the forty-nine strokes of pain and sorrow.

    Every stroke was a testament to the unimaginable grief and fury of the one who had written them. In those blood-red characters, Yun Xiao felt as though he saw a vision of an elder with white hair bidding farewell to seven youths with raven-ck hair.

    <i>To join the Sword Pavilion, one must first pay respects at the graves, </i>Yun Xiao<i> </i>recalled the words of Elder Yu. He stepped forward, paying homage to each grave. He noticed that the wine cups in front of the graves were full. Clearly, there were still those who came regrly to pay their respects.

    "Who are you?" Anguid voice echoed from behind him.

    Turning around, Yun Xiao saw a man in a yellow sword robe. His hair was unkempt, looking like a bird¡¯s nest, and his beard was messy. His gaze was somewhat dull and he seemed disheveled. The man was munching on a juicy chicken leg, dripping its grease onto his beard.

    Inside Yun Xiao''s robes, the little ck creature started to stir, its stomach rumbling audibly. ¡°I am a new disciple of the Sword Pavilion, my name is Yun Xiao,¡± he replied respectfully.

    "New disciple?" The man excitedly bit into his chicken leg, "Finally! After three years, the Sword Pavilion wees a new disciple. Such joyous news!" The man with a big grin sidled up to Yun Xiao. His greasy hand pped Yun Xiao on the shoulder, "Wow, look at you! So handsome! From today onwards, you''ll be the fresh grass of the Sword Pavilion."

    Staring at the grease stain on his robe, Yun Xiao chuckled. It seemed that the Azure Spirit Sword Sect still had its fair share of interesting characters.

    ¡°May I ask for your name, Uncle?¡± Yun Xiao inquired politely.

    ¡°How old are you?¡± The man inquired, pushing his bangs out of the way.

    ¡°Sixteen,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°What?! I''m only a year older than you! Still, I''m your Martial Uncle! So, you should call me Chicken Feather Uncle!¡± he blurted out.

    <i>Chicken Feather...? Bush, snatch hair, pubes...? </i>Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow. Then, he presented him with a polite smile and replied dutifully, "... Yes, Chicken Feather Uncle."

    "Nonono, wait! I got it wrong!" The man shouted, waving his chicken leg aggressively. "I meant, you should call me Bro, not Uncle!"

    Realizing the misunderstanding, Yun Xiao quickly corrected himself, "I apologize for the oversight. Greetings, Chicken Feather Bro..."

    The man almost choked on his food, pointing to himself indignantly, "I am NOT named Chicken Feather! It''s just a nickname. Got it?"

    Yun Xiao was taken aback. ¡°Oh, I see. May I know your actual name, senior brother?¡± he asked with a smile.

    Puffing out his chest proudly, the man responded, ¡°My surname is Cai, but you can call me Maomao.¡±

    Yun Xiao was left speechless. <i>Cai Maomao as in... Bushy Patch...? That''s basically the same as Chicken Feather!</i>

    ¡°Yun Xiao, from now on, you¡¯re under Brother Cai¡¯s protection,¡± Cai Maomao dered, wrapping an arm around Yun Xiao, "It¡¯s been so lonely. Three years without seeing a new face in the Sword Pavilion!¡±

    Both of them, with their unique personalities, seemed set for a memorable journey in the Sword Pavilion.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Given that it''s gettingte and Sister Zhao never shows up at night..." Cai Maomao trailed off, pondering. "Here''s the n. You can bunk with me tonight, and I''ll introduce you to her tomorrow. Once you get your disciple token and your name added to the Sword Sect''s records, you''ll officially be part of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect for the rest of your life."

    "Sister Zhao?"

    "Yes." Cai Maomao nced warily around them before leaning in to whisper, "You''re new here, and as your senior, let me pass on the number one rule of survival in the Sword Sect."

    "Survival rule? What is it?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Never, ever get on Sister Zhao''s bad side!"

    "Got it," Yun Xiao replied, noting the reverence in his words. He couldn''t help but think that Sister Zhao was probably another cultivator like Ye Guying, the haughty, aloof type. Such people were usually a drag.

    "Come on! Since I''m in a good mood today, I''ll treat you to a hot meal! You''ll love my meat! It''s roast chicken!."

    "Your meat, huh...? I''m assuming that means the meat you''ve cooked. Guess I''m having roast cock tonight," Yun Xiao said, trying to suppress a chuckle.

    Cai Maomaoughed heartily. "You''re something else, Yun Xiao! But I like your style."

    Yun Xiao could only shake his head in amusement.

    As night enveloped the surroundings, the silence was profound. For the first time in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Yun Xiao felt a hint of warmth.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Ye Guao?" Yao Qingqian, lifting the cloth, let out a horrified scream at the sight of the bloody mess in front of her. Any ordinary severed head that wouldn''t have made her scream like this. It was Ye Guao! The younger brother of the legendary Swordking Ye, found dead on the Heavenly Path. Who would bear the responsibility for this?

    Her heart raced. "Who did this?" Yao Qingqian demanded coldly.

    "No idea," someone replied.

    "What? Listen up!" Her face contorted with rage. "Close off all routes! Everyone who took part in this year''s Heavenly Path Trial is not to leave! Except those who''ve already be disciples of Azure Spirit. All others will be detained in the Sword Prison immediately!"

    Sword cultivators from the First Peak moved swiftly to carry out her orders.

    "Get me some ice blocks," Yao Qingqian ordered.

    "Why do you need ice blocks?" someone asked, puzzled.

    "To preserve Ye Guao''s remains. When the Swordking returns from the Sea of Swords, he''ll expect to see the corpse." Yao Qingqian sighed, weariness evident on her face. Though Jiang Yue had ascended, the death of Ye Guying''s own brother cast a heavy shadow on her heart. She dreaded imagining the rage Ye Guying would unleash on his return. "No matter who did this, I will find them. If not, the Swordking will never forgive me."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the First Sword Peak. The night deepened. The Azure Spirit Sword Sect by day was like a fairnd, bathed in ethereal light. But when night fell, shadowy figures roamed freely.

    Inside a finely decorated hall. Sword Venerable disciple Wang Feng stretched his limbs and turned to face the nine disciples from the First Sword Peak. "On nights as dark and windy as this, it''s perfect for a bit of mischief. Let''s vent some anger on behalf of our junior sister, Jiang Yue," he said, his voice cold.

    "Did Elder Yao send a message?"

    "Which Sword Peak was brave enough to take in that unlucky fellow?"

    "Haha, they really picked up a time bomb!"

    ...

    The groupughed curiously.

    "The Sword Pavilion," Wang Feng said, chuckling as he touched his nose.

    Hearing this, the others couldn''t help but burst intoughter.

    "I heard he managed to get his hands on the five-hundred-year-old demon bone. You know, the one Jiang Yue was meant to get?" Wang Feng said, his eyes filled with greed. It was clear the demon bone was his actual objective.

 Chapter 011 - Butchering Chickens! (1)

    <h4>Chapter 011 - Butchering Chickens! (1)</h4>

    In the heart of the Sword Pavilion, night had settled, leaving only thepany of a few solitarymps. One suchmp illuminated the humble wooden room of Yun Xiao and his Senior Brother Cai.

    "Here, try some of this chicken I''ve prepared!" Cai Maomao said, after what seemed like hours in the kitchen. He ced a tantalizing dish on the table.

    After inspecting the dish with his chopsticks, Yun Xiao remarked, "Tastes pretty good. But isn''t this frog?"

    Cai Maomao, scratching his head, replied with a grin, "Well, the actual chicken... I had it for lunch."

    Yun Xiao was speechless. This senior brother of his was really something else. The two were just about to dig in when they both froze in shock. Their meal had vanished!

    "M-my food? Where''d it go?" Cai Maomao cried out.

    <i>Oh, no he didn''t! </i>Realization dawned on Yun Xiao. He quickly reached into hisp, finding nothing, and then turned to see a small, dark creature gulping down their dinner. In mere moments, the creature''s razor sharp mouth had devoured a meal meant for two, and its belly rounded in satisfaction.

    Cai Maomao was livid. "What kind of little demon is this? Prepare for my sword!"

    But before he could act, Yun Xiao hurriedly stepped in, cradling the creature protectively. "Uh, Senior Brother Cai, this is my... pet cat?"

    Cai Maomao stared incredulously. "Your cat has horns and a giant mouth on its chest?"

    Yun Xiao sheepishly responded, "He''s a mixed breed. Tragic background."

    Cai Mao stared at him, speechless before shaking his head.

    The two both sighed. What kind of cross-species romance could produce such an offspring? With their dinner gone, they settled for some front porch chit-chat. Yun Xiao decided to ask about the graves, though he could already guess the rough answer.

    "About the seven graves by the entrance... They are?" Yun Xiao asked..

    "The Seven Sons of the Sword Pavilion," Cai Maomao replied, a sorrowful smile on his lips. "Once, they were the pride and glory of our sect. Before Ye Guying''s time, they were the most formidable generation we ever had. The seventh son, Cai Qingyun, was my brother."

    "I''m sorry for your loss," Yun Xiao murmured.

    Cai Maomao sighed. "I wanted to wee you properly today, but... the chicken, or rather frog, is gone."

    "As long as it fills someone''s belly, it''s fine." Yun Xiao grinned, trying to lift the mood. "Thanks for the effort." Life was full of strangers and fleeting encounters. But a gesture from the heart meant the world.

    "Don''t mention it. I used to cook for eight. Now it''s just me. Eating alone is quite dull," the seniormented.

    "Then maybe cook for more from now on," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "What do you mean?" Cai Maomao blinked, puzzled.

    "Well, this lil'' fe eats enough for seven," Yun Xiao replied with a smile, petting the little ck creature in his embrace.

    Red Moon grinned wide, shing a maw that would make a shark envious. He gave a goofy, toothy smile towards Cai Maomao.

    Cai Maomao''s face froze, "Oh f- Don''t eat me too!!" His wail echoed, but the night swallowed it quickly.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Late into the night, Yun Xiao ventured outside to the pitch-ck hill behind the Sword Pavilion hut. From his embrace, a small creature with eyes like haunting blue mes peeked out.

    "Hand over whatever junk you''ve got from Ye Guao," Blue Star said.

    Yun Xiao first tossed aside some of the inexplicable items, such as a woman''s bra and underwear. Honestly, he wondered why on earth a thirteen-year-old would have such things. Finally, he was left with thirty glowing Spirit Stones. These minerals, nurtured by spiritual energy for years, enhanced cultivation and elerated the absorption of spiritual energy.

    "Here they are," Yun Xiao said. He''d barely uttered the words when the little ck creature sprang from his embrace and lunged for the stones. <i>Snap! </i>To his disbelief, the creature gobbled up all thirty stones. "You ate them? All of them?" He gasped, fully aware that any ordinary cultivator could potentially explode from ingesting so many, or at least cause major indigestion.

    "If it''s not milk, it''s all just filler," Red Moon said solemnly, suggesting that the faux roast chicken they had earlier was also just mere filler.

    Before Yun Xiao could interrogate the creature about its odd diet, something remarkable urred. A rush of formidable spiritual energy surged from the creature''s belly. The creature seemed to catch fire from within, its fur revealing throbbing veins.

    "Is it...refining them?" Yun Xiao murmured. The refinement didn''t take long. As the creature''s fiery glow dimmed, something unexpected happened. Blue Star, from atop the creature''s head, clutched its throat, looking nauseous.

    "Got a bun in the oven?" Yun Xiao teased. To his astonishment, Blue Star regurgitated a bead, crimson as blood, glowing with a subtle light. Though small, it seemed to brim with immense power.

    "What is this?" Yun Xiao picked up the bead, intrigued.

    "It''s a Heavenly Dao Sarira," Blue Star answered, still looking queasy.

    "What does it do?"

    "It''s equivalent to your worldly pills and elixirs. Think of it as a Divine Sea Pill," Blue Star replied, managing between coughs.

    Yun Xiao, a bit taken aback, pieced it together, "So, Red Moon eats thirty Spirit Stones, refines them into this Heavenly Dao Sarira, you spit it out, and I''m supposed to consume it and cultivate?"

    "Yep! Also, one correction. We both share the same belly. So, we both helped refine it for you, not just Red Moon," Blue Star retorted, ring at him.

    Red Moon interjected with a grin, "Hey, it''s got ourbined drool on it. Consider yourself lucky."

    Yun Xiao could only sigh, bbergasted. Then, he shook his head vigorously. "Dammit! I refuse! There''s no way I''m eating your spit!"

    "If I''m not mistaken, this Heavenly Dao Sarira can elevate you to the Mid Dragon Spring Realm tonight," Blue Star said with an exaggerated roll of his eyes.

    "What?" Yun Xiao''s eyes widened at them. "And there''s only one of them? Are you guys holding out on me?"

    "..." Blue Star and Red Moon stared at him, speechless. What a 180 in attitude!

    "Creator, if you''re really turned off by eating something Blue Star spat out, I could, you know, make an effort and pull it out from another hole," Red Moon said with a mischievous grin.

    "Buzz off!" Yun Xiao clenched the Heavenly Dao Sarira and gave it a sniff. "Why does this Heavenly Dao Sarira smell like roasted frog?"

    "It''s not only the Spirit Stones. It''s made up of anything we eat," Blue Star exined.

    Yun Xiao was bbergasted. <i>So this includes the tree roots and rocks you guys were munching on earlier in the day too...? </i>The ancient bronze coffin truly was extraordinary.

    With a deafening boom, Blue Star and Red Moon transformed into the massive bronze coffin once again. Then under the cover of the night, Yun Xiao snuck inside. Ascending to immortality... cultivating within a coffin! In this world, he was truly one of a kind.

    Sitting cross-legged inside the coffin, Yun Xiao hesitated for a moment, then tossed the frog-vored Heavenly Dao Sarira into his mouth. The thought of it passing through three mouths made his stomach churn. And the idea that he might need to consume these regrly made his heart even heavier. Luckily, the potency of the Heavenly Dao Sarira was immediately apparent..

    "It really is like a legendary elixir!" Yun Xiao mused, amazed. Thinking about it, this little ck creature was basically a mobile alchemy furnace too. Everything could be turned into a Heavenly Dao Sarira!

    Its medicinal effectsbined with Yun Xiao''s Creator Immortal physique meshed incredibly well. The Dragon Spring Realm was simply a process of increasing one''s magical power. The difficulty wasn''t too high, and both pills and the Heavenly Dao Sarira had decent effects.

    However, the cost of producing a pill was undoubtedly many times more expensive than that of the Heavenly Dao Sarira.

    Yun Xiao could vividly feel the overpowering medicinal power from the Heavenly Dao Sarira flowing through every limb.

    "Primordial Void Technique!" Even a basic understanding of this technique was enough to fully absorb this Heavenly Dao Sarira into his Primordial Void Dragon Spring. The ethereal dragon within his Dantian swelled considerably from all the magical energy, sprouting another w.

    "Mid stage of the Dragon Spring Realm, two ws!" Yun Xiao eximed. "Senior Brother Cai is in the Late stage with a three-wed Dragon Spring. But when you add up the quality of my Sword Soul and Primordial Void Dragon Spring... I should be stronger." He had just broken through to the Dragon Spring Realm earlier in the day. Now,ter on in the night, he had reached the Mid stage! The progress was visibly staggering!

    Yun Xiao didn''t stop. Inside the coffin, he pulled out the five-hundred-year-old demon bone.

    "Too bad that Blood Demon was a tainted demon, or else I would''ve had two demon bones..." Yun Xiao muttered. Tainted demons were demons born out of resentment. Without a proper corporeal form, they didn''t have a demon bone. So, they were less valuable than demon beasts. However, the demon bone in his hand exuded a fierce aura, unmistakably from a worldly Demon King!

    "Now, how do I refine a demon bone with my Sword Soul?" Yun Xiao mused. Rumor had it that a Sword Soul could tear into these bones and absorb the monster marrow. Some Sword Souls were of such poor quality that they couldn''t even scratch the surface, much less absorb the marrow. And even if they did manage to make a dent, they could be overwhelmed and, in a disastrous oue, shatterpletely.

    Yun Xiao, however, had no such concerns. ¡°This Sword Soul might look ordinary, but it¡¯s perfect for me.¡± It baffled him how others could overlook a Sword Soul, especially one crafted from the fusion of the Divine Pir and the Heaven Burial Coffin. With a determined grip, he pressed the tip of his Sword Soul against the monster bone.

    <i>Ding! </i>The bone quivered as if a fierce beast fought for freedom, and a vicious scream echoed into Yun Xiao''s soul. Tearing into the bone, Heaven Burial began to absorb streams of bloody marrow. As it did, more and moreyers of light formed around the Sword Soul. ¡°Twoyers... three... five!¡±

    A five-hundred-year-old demon bone had amplified Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul''s Sword Aura to fiveyers, twoyers higher than either Jiang Yue or Cai Maomao. ¡°Among the disciples, this number ofyers should be one of the highest.¡±

    The number of Sword Aurayers was also important to Heaven Burial. Once the Sword Soul had theseyers, it would grow sturdier, fiercer and more deadly. ¡°Mid Dragon Spring Realm and a fiveyer Sword Aura!¡± Yun Xiao mused, pleased with his progress.

    ¡°That said, Heaven Burial''s most terrifying attribute is still its ability to consume other Sword Souls!¡± Yun Xiao''s eyes gleamed. He was about to focus up and stabilize his power when Blue Star blurted out, ¡°Your Senior Brother Cai is in danger!¡±

    Yun Xiao stood up, his eyes shing with fury. ¡°What''s going on? Who''s attacking us?¡±

    ¡°From what I can hear, they''re from the First Sword Peak,¡± Blue Star replied. Apparently, he had pretty keen ears.

    ¡°Is that so...¡± Yun Xiao said. His killing intent ring up, he vanished into the darkness and rushed back to the hut.

 Chapter 012 - Butchering Chickens! (2)

    <h4>Chapter 012 - Butchering Chickens! (2)</h4>

    In a dim courtyard, a few candles flickered weakly. Sword rays whistled, leaving deep scars on walls and rooftops.

    <i>THUD!</i> Cai Maomao crashed to the ground, fresh bloody cuts on his legs. Two brilliant Sword Souls crossed at his throat.

    ¡°Get your ass over here!¡± Two burly Sword Cultivators shoved him in front of a young man in an orange robe. The boy was none other than the twelfth disciple of the Sword Venerable¡ªWang Feng!

    Surrounded by the smirks of ten disciples from the First Sword Peak, the courtyard seemed more like a prison than a refuge. Their faces were carved with condescension, like cats toying with a particrly slow mouse.

    Cai Maomao, fueled by a fire of indignation, snapped, "Let me rify for the umpteenth time, there''s no newbie called Yun Xiao in my Sword Pavilion!"

    "Really now?" <i>Thwap! </i>Wang Feng pped Cai Maomao hard enough to leave a bloody imprint on his face. "What about now? Is there a newbie called Yun Xiao here now?"

    "Even if you kill me, the answer stays the same!" Cai Maomao red fiercely at Wang Feng. "You''ve be quite audacious. Remember, the Sword Pavilion belongs to the main branch of Azure Spirit. You''ve no business acting so brash here."

    The surrounding disciples erupted inughter at his words.

    "Azure Spirit''s main branch?" One disciple sneered. "You mean the one that''s almost extinct?"

    "My dear friend, times have changed!" Wang Feng said, chuckling as he cruelly gripped Cai Maomao''s hair. "Still intent on protecting him?"

    Cai Maomao gritted his teeth, remaining silent. Wang Feng''s cold gaze turned to a young man beside him. "Lin Yan! Chop off his hand. I''d love to see him practice swordsmanship after that."

    Lin Yan was a fresh recruit, third in the Heavenly Path Trial today and was chosen by Yao Qingqian for the First Sword Peak.

    "You wouldn''t dare!" Cai Maomao paled.

    "In your Sword Pavilion, dead men don''t even get burials. Why would we be afraid of chopping off a hand?" Wang Fengughed maliciously.

    Injured and outnumbered, Cai Maomao couldn''t break free in spite of his best efforts. The two holding him down, Wang Hu and Wang Qing, were Wang Feng''s rtives from the mortal realm. Both were formidable Cultivators in the Late Dragon Spring Realm, with strength that rivaled his own.

    "Wang Feng!" Cai Maomao''s voice broke, desperate and raging.

    Wang Feng smirked. "Lin Yan!"

    "R-right!" Lin Yan''s voice trembled slightly, his face tense. It was his first day, after all.

    "Show them the ruthlessness of the First Sword Peak! Remember, we are the standard now." Wang Feng''s voice was chillingly instructive.

    "You guys are the disgrace of Azure Spirit, just demons in human form!" Cai Maomao spat back.

    Ignoring him, Lin Yan steeled himself. As a new disciple of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, he couldn''t afford not to listen. Furthermore, entering Wang Feng¡¯s circle was extremely important. This was his initiation.

    <i>HUM! </i>Lin Yan''s hands shimmered, and a Scarlet Sword Soul emerged, transforming into a Palm Sword in his grip. He eyed Cai Maomao''s hand, pinned down and vulnerable. With gritted teeth, he raised his de.

    But in that tense moment, the half-open door of the courtyard burst open with a resounding crash. A young man in pristine white robes stepped in, his face the picture of serenity.

    "I''m here. Release him." Yun Xiao''s eyes briefly darted over to Cai Maomao, scanning his face and limbs. A glint of frosty determination shed in his gaze.

    "Halt!" Wang Feng, catching sight of the neer, swiftly signaled Lin Yan to hold his de. He and his cohorts exchanged amused nces. Shrugging, Wang Fengmented, "Look, the frog''s arrived."

    "Frog? What are you on about?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "I''m talking about my patented Sword Soul Skin Peeling Art''," Wang Feng replied with a mocking grin, sizing up Yun Xiao from head to toe. "You''ve got some nice skin, pretty boy. Pity about the soul inside. Perfect, I''ll just peel you a new one."

    "Skin Peeling?" Yun Xiao chuckled. "All I''ve got is skin."

    "You get my drift?" Wang Feng ridiculed.

    "Got it, loud and clear," Yun Xiao confirmed.

    "You''re not afraid?" Wang Feng seemed taken aback.

    "Yun Xiao, get out of here! They''re ruthless, they''re after you!" Cai Maomao warned, his voice dripping with desperation.

    Yun Xiao spared him another nce. He hadn''t expected that their bond, formed over a simple meal, would be so profound.

    "Senior Brother Cai, isn''t anyone in charge here?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "This is an isted peak," Cai Maomao replied, his face ashen.

    "Gotcha," Yun Xiao nodded, understanding dawning on him. But he didn''t budge.

    Wang Feng, hearing their conversation, was on the verge ofughter. His patience was wearing thin. "Lin Yan, didn''t you say that during the Heavenly Path Trial, you were the strongest, just unlucky?" He motioned toward Yun Xiao. "Here, have some fun with this little frog."

    "Thank you, Senior Brother Wang!" Lin Yan''s eyes sparkled with anticipation. He possessed an Upper Meteor grade Sword Soul while Yun Xiao''s <i>Green Lotus Sword Soul</i> was only Lower Meteor grade. During the distribution of rewards, Lin Yan had indeed coveted Yun Xiao''s five-hundred-year-old demon bone.

    With a metallic ng, Lin Yan gripped his Scarlet Sword Soul and advanced toward Yun Xiao. "Yun Xiao," he sneered, "Your first ce in the Heavenly Path Trial means noth¡ª"

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao disappeared into a white blur, and a streak of azure light shot forward.

    "What the¡ª?" Lin Yan eximed. And then, a soft thud rang out. He hadn''t even lifted his head when a streak of azure light pierced through his brow. A sword through the head!

    The azure de flew out the other end and lodged itself into a stone pir. The sound of it vibrated ominously. Lin Yan''s eyes rolled back, a look of shock cemented in hisst moments, before he copsed lifelessly.

    With a sudden whirl, Heaven Burial flew back into Yun Xiao''s grip. "That''s the best the Heavenly Path has to offer?" he remarked, ncing at Wang Feng and shaking his head.

    The courtyard fell eerily silent. Everyone seemed rooted to the spot, their faces reflecting a myriad of emotions.

    "You dare to kill a disciple of the First Sword Peak?" Wang Hu, who had Cai Maomao in custody, stated in disbelief.

    "In front of us, no less?" Wang Qing, standing nearby, added, his voice filled with shock.

    "Yep, just like ughtering a chicken," Yun Xiao responded nonchntly.

    "You!" Wang Feng''s initial shock quickly transformed into seething rage. The reason? He noticed that Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul radiated with fiveyers of Sword Aura, indicating that he had fully assimted the demon bone¡ªa demon bone that was five hundred years old. It usually took a Dragon Spring Realm cultivator at least five days to refine such a treasure. Yet, Yun Xiao had managed to do it in just a few hours?

    "No way... D-did you really just...?" Cai Maomao was also dumbfounded. The situation was already looking pretty bad for the two of them. So, why did Yun Xiao have to escte it even more and kill someone? Now, they were screwed for sure. The sight of Lin Yan, his lifeblood seeping into the earthen floor, only raised tensions even more.

    "You dare to kill one of my people?" Wang Feng''s eyes zed with fury as he red at Yun Xiao. "Choose now! Kneel and ept your fate, or shall I personally send you to your doom?" Before the words fully left his mouth, a white silhouette darted past him.

    "What the¡ª?" Wang Feng turned to see Yun Xiao, already lunging at Wang Hu and Wang Qing.

    "Enough talk. Bro Cai!" Yun Xiaomanded, his eyes sharp as des.

    "I understand! Let''s do this!" Cai Maomao roared, summoning his own Sword Soul and seizing the moment to spring into action.

    "You two are dead meat!" Both Wang Hu and Wang Qing were at the Late Dragon Spring Realm, one realm higher than Yun Xiao. Their Sword Souls emanated threeyers of Sword Aura. Wang Hu''s Sword Soul in particr was quite thick, resembling a greatsword.

    <i>ng! </i>Wang Hu''s Sword Soul had originally been pressing down on Cai Maomao''s neck. But with Yun Xiao''s swift and lethal attack, he had no choice but to defend himself.

    Yun Xiao loosed another strike of his de. He had honed his skills on the battlefield, mastering the art of killing. He was fast, precise, and ruthless.

    "A Lower Meteor-grade Sword Soul?" Wang Hu sneered. His own Sword Soul was Upper Meteor-grade, augmented with threeyers of Sword Aura. It was as sturdy as ck iron! With confidence, he met the attack head-on. <i>ng! </i>A sh of azure shed with his Sword Soul. Then, the piercing screech of de against de reverberated in the air, sending sparks flying.

    "Think you can match my Sword Soul? You''re noth¡ª?" Wang Hu''s taunt halted abruptly, his expression freezing in shock. <i>Crack... Boom! </i>His Sword Soul shattered in an instant, its splintering fragments illuminating the courtyard like a brilliant fireworks disy. The explosion sent his big figure crashing into the wall.

    With his Sword Soul broken, his soul was obliterated. Wang Hu''s eyes rolled back, his body convulsed, and froth escaped his lips. For a Sword Cultivator, this fate was worse than death. Not only would he be rendered useless, but also mindless. The way of the sword is a perilous path indeed.

    "Wang Hu!" Wang Feng''s entourage let out a collective gasp. He had been Wang Feng''s top warrior. Whose Sword Soul could be so powerful that it could instantly shatter an opponent''s duringbat?

    "This guy is no joke!" Wang Feng was finally starting to grasp the gravity of the situation. But it was toote. Yun Xiao moved with the ferocity of a storm. Once he decided to kill, he did so without hesitation.

    Standing tall and solitary like a lone peak, after obliterating Wang Hu''s Sword Soul, Yun Xiao swiftly turned his attention to Wang Qing, who was already engaged in battle with Cai Maomao.

    "Huh?" Wang Qing was caught off-guard. After catching a glimpse of Wang Hu being sent flying from the corner of his eye, he saw Yun Xiao spin around and transform his Palm Sword into a Flying Sword. With a swift motion, the young man in white released the de, sending it hurtling through the air. A sh of azure followed.

    "Bro Feng! Save me!" Wang Qing''s desperate cry barely left his lips when Cai Maomao pinned down his Sword Soul with sheer ferocity. He was trapped, unable to escape the onught.

    "No!" Wang Qing''s eyes widened in terror. But before he could react further, a brilliant azure light shed before him. <i>Thud!</i> The blue light pierced straight through his chest, leaving a bloody hole the width of three inches right where his heart should be.

    Staggering backward, Wang Qing managed only three steps. His eyes were fixed on Yun Xiao, wide in disbelief and brimming with sheer terror. He fell backward, blood pooling around him, painting the ground a gruesome shade of crimson.

    "Wang Qing!" Wang Feng''s eyes turned bloodshot. Another person had died, just like that. He never imagined that Yun Xiao would take out three people so quickly. By the time he returned to his senses and moved to intercept Yun Xiao, the lethal Flying Sword had already struck its target.

    Wang Qing was no more. Yet, Wang Feng''s attack only left a scratch on Yun Xiao''s arm.

    "Hah!" Yun Xiao barely spared the fresh wound a nce. He transformed his Sword Soul back into a Palm Sword and coolly turned to face Wang Feng. His gaze was cold and indifferent, piercing right through his opponent like he was looking at a bug.

    The six other members of Wang Feng''s entourage quickly hid behind him. Their eyes trembled as they looked at Yun Xiao, hardly daring to breathe. Wang Hu and Wang Qing were stronger than any of them. Yet both had been killed in a single strike! They could hardly be med for being scared!

    Many people who liked to act tough were actually cowards in reality. When faced with a real opponent, their legs trembled, betraying their fear.

    "Junior Brother Yun..." Cai Maomao murmured, walking over to Yun Xiao''s side. As he stared at this seemingly harmless young man before him, his mind buzzed with all sorts of thoughts, words escaping him. The three bodies on the ground sent shivers down his spine. The conflict had long escted past the point of reconciliation.

    "Wang Feng is the twelfth disciple of the Sword Venerable. He joined the Azure Spirit Sword Sect just two months ago. Since then, he''s already advanced two stages and reached the Perfect Dragon Spring Realm, meaning his dragon has four ws," Cai Maomao exined, gnashing his teeth. That was two levels above Yun Xiao!

    Yun Xiao observed that Wang Feng also had a fiveyer Sword Aura. On top of that, Wang Feng''s Sword Soul was also Lower Comet grade! It was precisely because of this that he was epted as a disciple of the Sword Venerable!

    Within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, the status of the Sword Venerable''s disciple wasparable to that of an elder.

    "Maybe we should..." Cai Maomao''s heart raced, contemting the idea of escaping with Yun Xiao. But with their hands stained in blood, where could they possibly run to? Before he could finish his thought, Wang Feng spoke in a chilling tone, "Yun Xiao, you''ve taken the lives of three top disciples from the First Sword Peak... Your worthless life can''t even begin to repay the debt!"

    "Huh, is that right? I only killed three. Round it down, and it''s like I killed none," Yun Xiao quipped.

    "Making jokes even now. You really are something else! No matter what you say, three people still died at your hands tonight!" Wang Feng shouted in anger.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, "Fine then. I''ll kill a few more to make it a round number." How many did he mean by round? Ten, of course! He nned to wipe every singlest one of them out, including Wang Feng.

    "Wait, let''s n¡ª." Cai Maomao cried out. He reached out but only managed to grab onto the young man''s sleeve for a brief moment before it slipped away. He couldn''t stop Yun Xiao.

    "You frog... Do you truly not understand what it means to be the Sword Venerable''s disciple?" Wang Feng asked, his face contorted in rage. As he brandished his Comet grade Desert Sand Sword Soul, the courtyard was instantly filled with a swirling sandstorm. The power of his Sword Soul could actually control and utilize sand in battle!

    The two seemed poised for a deadly confrontation when suddenly... A bone-chilling voice sounded from behind Yun Xiao. "It seems I''ve found the killer of Swordking Ye''s little brother."

    "Who?" Cai Maomao felt his spine tingle. Whipping around, he spotted a stunning woman in a red dress, inspecting the corpse of Lin Yan. The gaping wound on his forehead was disintegrating, turning into a sinister ck smoke.

    "The same type of Sword Soul inflicted decay was found on Ye Guao''s wound as well!" With a thud, the woman in red dropped Lin Yan''s body. <i>Boom!</i> Her overwhelming power, a testament to her Divine Sea Realm strength, bore down on Yun Xiao. Her intent to kill was palpable. Her icy eyes, reminiscent of a frozen wastnd, were locked onto him..

    "Earlier today at the Sword Inheritance tform, when you said you hadn''t even killed a dog... It was that very specifically phrased statement that made me suspicious of you." She was Yao Qingqian, Elder Yao!

    Wang Feng had learned of Yun Xiao''s whereabouts from her. And she had followed him. Though, she never expected to witness such a scene. Now, she narrowed her eyes and tilted her chin up slightly, studying the young man in white with an unyielding coldness. "Did you know Yun Xiao? Those who keep secrets and try to act clever on the Immortal Path, thinking they can deceive people... they all meet with very gruesome ends...!"

 Chapter 013 - Who Said You Could Leave?

    <h4>Chapter 013 - Who Said You Could Leave?</h4>

    Everything wasid bare! The situation was dire! Yao Qingqian''s face, cold as an icy ocean, had already condemned Yun Xiao to death.

    "Yun Xiao," Cai Maomao spun around, his eyes wide in shock, "You killed Ye Guying''s younger brother...?" He couldn''t believe it. Why did the first disciple the Sword Pavilion weed in three whole years have to be a guy like him? "You... you''re insane!"

    "Senior Brother Cai, the consequences of my actions are mine alone." Yun Xiao''s eyes remained calm, his voice unwavering. "I''ll deal with this! So, go!"

    "Senior Brother, huh...? And yet you..." Cai Maomao began, his expression shifting dramatically. He red at Yun Xiao. "Y-you''re insane. Absolutely out of your mind. I''m out. I want nothing to do with this! Clean up your own mess. Don''t drag me into it!" With that, he gave a courteous bow to Yao Qingqian and turned to leave.

    "Halt!" Yao Qingqian''s voice echoed with a chilling smirk.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>With a single palm strike, a surge of power, vast like an ocean, erupted from her body. It transformed into a wave of force that viciously mmed into Cai Maomao''s back. This was the power of the Divine Sea Realm! The energy within someone at the Divine Sea Realm was as vast as an ocean, its might easily shaking the heavens and earth. Its force rolled back like a reversed river, something far beyond what the Dragon Spring Realm could match.

    <i>SPLUTTER! </i>Cai Maomao spat out a mouthful of dark blood, his face turning ghostly white, stumbling a few steps.

    Yun Xiao rushed to support him. As the clotted blood from Cai Maomao''s mouth dripped onto Yun Xiao''s white robes, a hint of red began to seethe within Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    "Heh heh..." Yao Qingqian smirked, herughter dripping with condescension. "Do you take me for a fool? Did you think I wouldn''t see you were trying to get help?" With her power as a senior, she had sent Cai Maomao reeling with just one palm strike. Thed could hardly stand!

    "Let me tell you something! Yun Xiao hasmitted a grave sin. Even if you managed to summon Zhao Xuanran''s father, this young man would still meet his end under Swordking Ye''s fury!" Yao Qingqian shrugged, rolling her eyes, her expression a blend of seduction and mockery. She was powerful. She was an elder. She had been cultivating for thirty years! So, here, her word wasw.

    "Yun Xiao!" Yao Qingqian raised an eyebrow, looking at him.

    Yun Xiao was using his Dragon Spring Realm power to stabilize Cai Maomao''s internal injuries while fixing his gaze on Yao Qingqian, this female elder, who had been dismissive of him even during the Heavenly Path Trial!!

    "Do you know who Ye Guying is?" Yao Qingqian asked coldly.

    "I''m more than aware." Yun Xiao replied.

    "Then why did you kill Ye Guao?" Yao Qingqian''s voice wasced with anger.

    "When I decide to kill someone, I don''t need a reason," Yun Xiao stated.

    "You!" Yao Qingqian was at a loss for words, staring at him in disbelief. "Have you lost your mind? Ye Guying is the future pir of Azure Spirit! And you dare kill his own brother?"

    "Elder Yao," Wang Feng sneered. "He''s just a fool, clueless about the terrifying figure he''s offended!"

    Yun Xiao didn''t spare Wang Feng a nce. Instead, he smiled at Yao Qingqian and said, "Elder Yao, as you mentioned, that''s the future. And who can really predict the future?" His wordsbined with that cold chuckle left Yao Qingqian and Wang Feng momentarily stunned.

    "I think I get it now," Yao Qingqian said with a sigh, shaking her head as she looked at Yun Xiao. "My luck must be terrible to have run into an imbecile like you." A naive fool who had no concept of the wider world had actually managed to kill Ye Guao... At least they''d found the perpetrator. Otherwise, she truly wouldn¡¯t know how to face Ye Guying.

    "That''s enough. I don''t want to waste more words with you. Come with me to the Sword Prison. We''ll wait for Swordking Ye to return from the Sea of Swords to deal with you," Yao Qingqian dered. She really wasn''t interested in deciphering the thought process of a simpleton. Every additional word was a waste of breath!

    "Move!" Yao Qingqian snapped, her gaze icy as she looked at Yun Xiao.

    "Hold on." Wang Feng suddenly stepped forward.

    "What is it?" Yao Qingqian''s gaze softened a bit. After all, Wang Feng was a disciple of the Sword Venerable, blessed with a Comet grade talent and a future that could surpass even hers.

    "Elder Yao, he killed two of my nsmen. I want a bit of retribution first," Wang Feng said with utmost seriousness.

    "You want to call dibs before Swordking Ye?" Yao Qingqian raised an eyebrow.

    Wang Feng gritted his teeth. "How about this? I''ll take both his arms as an exnation to my n."

    Yao Qingqian thought for a moment, then waved her hand dismissively. "Fine, fine. Just be quick about it." She was well and truly fed up.

    Yun Xiao, that greenhorn of the purest strain, had first stepped on Jiang Yue''s toes and then went ahead to y Ye Guao. Such antics made all the favors Elder Yao expected from Swordking Ye evaporate into thin air, leaving everything in a royal mess.

    "Elder Yao, try to take a breather," Wang Feng said with a cating smile. But, the very second he turned to face Yun Xiao, his amiable demeanor morphed. His eyes darkened, brimming with ferocity. <i>HUM! </i>He manifested his Lower Comet grade Sword Soul! With fiveyers of Sword Aura, the desert-like Sword Soul transformed into a Palm Sword grasped firmly in his grip.

    Wang Feng''s magic power melded with the power of his Sword Soul, the sandstorm around him swirling into a roaring tornado of sword energy. The Perfect Dragon Spring Realm was undoubtedly powerful! Amidst this storm, his cold and biting voice cut through, "Yun Xiao!"

    <i>KLINK KLINK KLINK! </i>Wang Feng controlled his Sword Soul with his unique technique. The Sword Soul had three forms¡ªFlying Sword, Palm Sword, and Sovereign Sword, each with their own corresponding use. Of the three forms, the Palm Sword was a closebat technique. The technique Wang Feng now used was passed down to him from the Sword Venerable¡ªthe Sandstorm Sword. This sword techniquebined with his Desert Sand Sword Soul was a match made in heaven.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Wang Feng charged at Yun Xiao with the Sandstorm Sword Technique, a powerful tempest of sand swirling around him. In the sand, there were swords. In the swords, there was sand! Just one move and it was clear that even if this disciple of the Sword Venerable had only been training for two months, his skills had already surpassed those of the likes of Wang Hu, Wang Qi, and Cai Maomao by quite a bit!

    "You think you''re fit for the path of Immortals with the aptitude of a pig or a dog?" Wang Feng couldn''t help but burst intoughter. "Seriously? Who raised this fellow without a lick ofmon sense? Don''t you know the rules of this ce? Azure Spirit isn''t some sacrednd! This is where the prodigies shine and where the weak are ughtered like livestock!"

    With a firm resolve, Wang Feng thrusted his sword forward. <i>BOOM! </i>A sandstorm surged forth, hurtling towards Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao, not one to be easily intimidated, narrowed his eyes. In an instant, he became a blur, darting straight into the heart of the swirling storm. the harsh sands tearing at his white robes. One sh Sword Art! This was the secret technique of his Yun Family¡ªa legacy that spanned centuries. It might not be as advanced as Azure Spirit''s sword techniques, but it was honed over time and delivered with just one formidable sh. Man and sword, charging forth without hesitation.

    Yun Xiao ignored the sandstorm around him and lunged at Wang Feng, his sword thrust bearing an overwhelming spirit. His de vibrated intensely, imbued with the energy of the heavens. By this day, it had been drenched in enough blood to unleash an intense murderous intent. A suffocating aura of doom hung heavily, casting a shadow over Wang Feng.

    "What the...?" Wang Feng was taken aback. The youth before him seemed to transform, no longer just a boy in white, but a manifestation of sheer terror. His eyes widened in disbelief. His Desert Sand Sword Soul, still aiming for Yun Xiao, faltered in its technique. Amidst the swirling sands, a sh of cold, blue light emerged. With a piercing sound, it grazed past Wang Feng''s Sword Soul, embedding itself deep into his shoulder de.

    "Argh!" Wang Feng screamed in agony, his eyes bulging.

    "You wanted to take my arms, Wang Feng?" Yun Xiao retorted, swinging his sword. Heaven Burial spun, its sharp radiance carving a full circle around Wang Feng''s right arm. With a stter, Wang Feng''s arm was severed, the blood melding with the sandstorm and staining Yao Qingqian.

    "One down, one to go!" Without missing a beat, Yun Xiao shed again. And just like that, Wang Feng''s other arm thudded to the ground.

    "You...!" Wang Feng cried out in sheer horror, his face pale as a ghost, his bulging eyes nearly popping out of their sockets. In his eyes, tears mingled with blood, gushing out like twin rivers of anguish. "My arms! My Sword Soul! My path as an Immortal... Oh God!" His screams echoed with pain that could rend one''s heart, mouth gaping wide, eyes bulging like those of a surprised frog. His face contorted, almost to the point of tearing apart.

    "That''s it? That''s all you got as a disciple of the Sword Venerable?" Yun Xiao taunted, standing right before him, looking down with eyes dripping with sarcasm. He shook his head, the very image of disdain. "Wang Feng, apart from a talent for useless chatter, I really don''t see where your genius lies.

    "You think you''re well-versed in themon sense of Azure Spirit? Then answer me, how did you meet your end?" Yun Xiao pressed him.

    "I''m not dead... yet..." Wang Feng''s voice trembled. <i>SLASH! </i>No sooner had the words left his lips than his head was sent flying,ing to rest before the shocked spectators.

    "How about now, Wang Feng?" Yun Xiao called out, a smirk on his face, "If you''re still not dead, give me a sign."

    Cai Maomao was dumbstruck. A head on the ground, and still asking? <i>THUD! </i>The decapitated body of Wang Feng copsed. The head lying near a bystander''s feet, its tongue lolling out like azy frog, certainly wasn''t in any position to answer Yun Xiao''s rhetorical question. The twelfth disciple of the Sword Venerable! A prodigy of the highest caliber! And here he was... disarmed, decapitated, done for.

    The onlookers were utterly shell-shocked. "Brother Wang!" The remaining six disciples of the First Sword Peak cried out, their faces pallid, huddling together. They had always followed Wang Feng''s lead. "Elder Yao...!" Their desperate eyes turned to Yao Qingqian.

    Blood from Wang Feng stained Yao Qingqian''s captivating face. To be honest, even she was taken aback. This young man had shown prowess simr to Wang Hu and the others earlier in the day. And now, under the moonlight, he had in Wang Feng, a disciple of the Sword Venerable? Efficiently. Brutally. Right in front of her. She was an elder, for heaven''s sake! And Yun Xiao was but a mere prisoner. Where did he get such audacity?

    "Yun Xiao!" Yao Qingqian shouted. "You''ve truly wrought monumental disaster this time. First, the brother of Swordking Ye, and now a disciple of the Sword Venerable. Your hands are drenched in their blood. The entire Sword Pavilion must pay for your sins!"

    Yao Qingqian was really sly. In her mind, Yun Xiao was just a nobody with zero influence. Even if she killed him ten times over, it still wouldn''t make up for Ye Guao''s death. But now, a disciple of the Sword Venerable had met his end at this very ce. It was the perfect excuse for the First Sword Peak to purge the Sword Pavilion! By escting the conflict to this magnitude, she ensured that any me she had in Ye Guao''s death would bepletely overshadowed.

    "I''ll call for Zhao Xuanran and that blind old man! The rest of you, go inform the Sword Venerable!" Yao Qingqianmanded, her voice was cold as winter''s touch.

    "Yes!" The six disciples were only too eager to leave.

    Chuckling darkly, Yao Qingqian turned to summon Zhao Xuanran.

    "Just wait a moment!" Yun Xiao''s cold voice rang out from behind.

    "What more do you wish to bber about, you fool?" Yao Qingqian spat coldly, turning to face him.

    "Who said you could leave? Today, none of you are going to escape here alive," Yun Xiao dered. He lunged at Yao Qingqian, his Sword Soul leading the way. As he approached, he swiftly reached into his robes and produced a dark brick which he hurled at her.

    "Have you lost your mind?" Yao Qingqian sneered, not even considering the brick as a threat. But in the blink of an eye, the brick exploded into a massive creature, resembling a fusion of a fierce tiger and a majestic lion, and it crashed into her. <i>SPLAT SPLAT! </i>Blood spurted from her mouth as she was sent flying. The beast''s sharp ws tore through her, leaving gory holes. She was soaked in her own blood.

    With a deafening crash, she hit the ground, lying amidst a pool of her own blood, her once rosy lips now pale. Her ribs? Cleanly broken. All of them. She writhed in pain, eyes wide in terror, finally seeing her attacker. The beast was armored in scales reminiscent of a divine dragon, its head crowned with razor-sharp horns, and its eyes a haunting shade of blue, vast like the starry night sky. But the most terrifying feature was its wide mouth, filled with hundreds of dagger-like teeth and a thorny tongue.

    "Taotie... a Taotie!" Yao Qingqian murmured with herst breath, fearcing her voice as she struggled to move away. But she couldn''t. Her injuries were too severe. She was immobilized in her own pool of blood.

    "Taotie? You still wish to insult us, even on your deathbed?" Blue Star roared furiously.

    "Insult? What insult?" Yao Qingqian shuddered in fear. The dreaded Taotie of folklore was an insult to this beast? "Yun... Y-yun Xiao..." A feeling like her soul was being torn apart gripped her very being. Finally, she understood. This young man was not dense, naive, or careless. He simply had no fear.

    Even as Yao Qingqian identified him today as Ye Guao''s murderer, he had never once shown fear. Now, the tables had turned, and fear consumed her. For a person of her stature, an elder from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, to be so deeply terrorized by a mere novice... she felt her spirit shatter.

    "Please..." Yao Qingqian whimpered, looking at him.

    There stood Yun Xiao, right next to the beast. He nced at her coldly, his eyes icy and indifferent. He paid no heed to her pleas. Instead, he set his sights on the six disciples from the First Sword Peak who were fleeing in horror. These remaining six were all around the Mid Dragon Spring Realm, with only two ws on their Dragon Springs.

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>Under the dim light of the night, an azure streak raced through the woods, piercing through the hearts of the fleeing disciples. <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>One by one, they fell to the ground, their bodies growing cold with death.

    "Yun Xiao!" Thest of the disciples, seeing his ninepanions dead, didn''t dare flee any longer. He knelt before Yun Xiao, tears streaming, pleading, "I have family, both old and young to care for. You are a Sword Cultivator, not a murderer. I haven''t done anything wrong. Please don''t kill me! If you kill me, you''d be acting without honor! You won''t walk the path of Immortals!"

    "Fine! So just because you have a family, you can impose your morality on me? And me, an orphan, should just damn well ept my fate?" Yun Xiao roared, eyes zing. <i>SLASH! </i>As the words left his mouth, the disciple''s head rolled.

    "If eradicating all of you makes me dishonorable, then what''s the point of cultivation? If the path of an Immortal doesn''t allow for vengeance, then I''ll carve my own path!" Yun Xiao''s angry voice echoed through the vast, dark forest. Apart from Cai Maomao, who stood petrified, no one could answer.

    "Elder Yao, it''s your turn." Yun Xiao held his luminous azure Sword Soul as he came walking out of the trees, his white robes stained with crimson splotches reminiscent of cherry blossoms. The night wind tousled his hair. He arrived next to Yao Qingqian, looking down indifferently at her.

    "Senior Brother Cai," Yun Xiao said, lips curling into a soft smirk. "Please step back. I wish to speak with her."

    "Right... Okay!" With a shudder, Cai Maomao retreated to the courtyard.

    Yun Xiao crouched down, his wless features mirrored in Yao Qingqian''s blood-filled eyes. "Yun... Y-yun Xiao," she pleaded.

    Yun Xiao felt the grip of her desperate hand on his own. Her hand was as delicate and white as jade, but her strength was waning. He lightly wrinkled his brow, shaking it off. Looking into her terror-stricken eyes, he smiled gently. "Still, thank you."

    "For what...?" Tears streamed down Yao Qingqian''s face as her body quaked in sheer terror.

    "Thanks for showing me the path of an Immortal." Yun Xiao grinned. If not for the blood sttered across his face, you might even call his smile sunny.

    "I... I was wrong. I was blind! I should''ve recognized your great talents!" Yao Qingqian stuttered in fear.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, shrinking his Sword Soul back down and holding it up in front of her. "Green Lotus Sword Soul, huh? Do you think this is a mediocre Low Meteor grade Sword Soul now?"

    "No... N-no," Yao Qingqian replied, somewhat at a loss.

    "It was this very sword that shattered the Sword Inheritance Stone, yet you all insisted it was Jiang Yue''s doing. Now, she''s floating so high. If she falls during the Seven Swords Conve in two days and dies, that''s on you, Elder Yao," Yun Xiao remarked with a cheeky grin.

    Fifteen minutes earlier, Yao Qingqian would have thought Yun Xiao was mad. But now... She felt her heart pounding so hard it might burst from her chest. She cried out, "Yun... Yun Xiao, you''re the most terrifying person I''ve ever met. You''re the true genius, surpassing Moon or grade!" It had finally all clicked for her. And a deeper terror, vast and endless like the open sea, threatened to engulf her.

    Feeling charitable, Yun Xiao whispered, "Here''s another secret for you. Ye Guying and Jiang Yue once schemed to kill a mortal emperor. That was me. I''ve returned from the dead, taken a new body, all to settle scores."

    "Ah." Yao Qingqian was practically bug-eyed, her eyes shaking as if ready to pop out of their sockets. So, he knew Jiang Yue. He knew Ye Guying. It all made sense now¡ªwhy he killed Ye Guao, why he tormented Jiang Yue. If Elder Yao hadn''t been at the Sword Inheritance tform, would he have gone further and killed Jiang Yue too? The realizations made Yao Qingqian even more desperate. The more secrets you knew, the more likely you were to end up dead.

    Sure enough, Yun Xiao yfully pped her once-beautiful face with his Sword Soul,menting, "Sadly, you won''t be around to witness the thrilling finale when I face them."

    "Yun Xiao!" Yao Qingqian choked back sobs, her face a picture of despair.

    "Yes?" Yun Xiao asked..

    "Don''t kill me! I''m a woman!" Yao Qingqin pleaded weakly.

    "A woman?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "I''m beautiful too!" Yao Qingqian eximed, frantic.

    "And?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "I have an... exceptional tongue," Yao Qingqian hinted seductively, lips parting slightly.

    "Exceptional tongue? You mean, like you trained in some kind of iron tongue technique?" Yun Xiao remarked. Then, in one fluid motion, he drove his sword through her, anchoring her to the earth beneath.

    "AGH! Ah...?" Yao Qingqian''s eyes bulged, her neck tilting at an odd angle as she met her end.

    Internally, relief washed over Yun Xiao. Had he not reacted so quickly, and she weaponized that very tongue, he might have been in a precarious situation "Not that exceptional, it seems. It couldn''t even stop my sword," he quipped a hint of amusement in his voice.

 Chapter 014 - Shes Prettier than Yao Qingqian!

    <h4>Chapter 014 - She''s Prettier than Yao Qingqian!</h4>

    The ce was eerily silent. Yun Xiao rose hastily, eyes darting around in search. Where was that ck-scaled beast from just moments ago?

    "Hey hey, watch it! You''re stepping on me!" The feeble voice of Blue Star rose from beneath his foot.

    "Huh?" Yun Xiao moved his foot immediately, squatting down. From the dirt, he pinched out a tiny tail. "No wonder my foot felt weirdly soft..." With that, he pulled out what seemed to be a creature covered in ck fuzz. Blue Star, quiteically, looked like a ttened cartoon¡ªeyes wide, tongue lolling out. Beside him, Red Moon fainted with stars circling its head.

    "You guys okay?" Yun Xiao asked, holding the fuzzy tail and giving it a gentle shake.

    "Easy, easy! I''m feeling dizzy," Blue Star grumbled, pointing urgently at a woman nearby. "Quick, check if she has any Spirit Stones..."

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao reached into the woman''s embrace, pulling out a pouch shimmering with a faint light. It felt full. "A Pouch of Holding?" Yun Xiao had heard tales of such pouches in the mundane world, a treasure that only the top cultivators possessed. It was said that the wealth inside could rival that of the entire Cloud Nation. He loosened the colorful drawstring and peeked inside. Sure enough, the space within the pouch was filled with an Immortal Aura. "There''s quite a lot here!" Apart from some feminine clothes and daily necessities, there were countless Spirit Stones.

    "How many?" Blue Star sniffed, obviously sensing something.

    "Thousands!" Yun Xiao eximed in surprise. With a Pouch of Holding and thousands of Spirit Stones, this woman must''ve been incredibly wealthy. Ye Guao only had thirty Spirit Stones, after all!

    "How did she get so many?" Blue Star''s eyes sparkled.

    "She might be the mistress of the Sword Venerable," Yun Xiao spected.

    "Well, then move quickly... I don''t want to hibernate for another three months!" Blue Star''s urgency was palpable.

    Yun Xiao stretched his hand into the pouch, grabbing arge handful of Spirit Stones and moving them towards Blue Star''s mouth.

    "What are you doing?" Blue Star red.

    "Feeding you?" Yun Xiao replied cheekily.

    "Feed your sister! Look down here," Blue Star pointed to a gaping mouth on his chest, "This is where you feed me. I use the one on my face to talk!"

    "You''ve got to be joking. You have a specific job for each mouth?" Yun Xiao snorted but didn¡¯t waste any more time. If they fell into hibernation for three months, it would be quite a hassle. He worried about how to feed the unconscious Red Moon, but as he brought the Spirit Stones closer, its eyes lit up, and its massive mouth swung open...

    "Yikes!" Yun Xiao''s hand was nearly bitten off by the voracious creature. "Hey, slow down there!" he eximed.

    Red Moon consumed the Spirit Stones like they were peanuts, Yun Xiao feeding it handful by handful. Suddenly, a crunch echoed. He''d identally fed it ady''s shoe and some lingerie, which Red Moon consumed without hesitation. Cold sweat dripped from his brow.

    After around a thousand or so Spirit Stones, the once-dim blue eyes of Blue Star began to regain their luster.

    "Feeling better?" Yun Xiao asked, genuinely concerned.

    "Good thing this woman had enough Spirit Stones, or else I''d have been drained entirely," Blue Star remarked with a slight smirk.

    "So, with all these Spirit Stones, you''ll be fully recharged?" Yun Xiao continued to feed him.

    "More or less," Blue Star replied.

    "Which means you can back me up once more." Yun Xiao grinned.

    "Seriously? You''re exploiting childbor here!" Blue Star shot him an usatory nce. "Just be cautious. We need a long recovery. Plus, it''s not like every victim will have this many Spirit Stones."

    "Understood." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "And another thing," Blue Star interjected. "Our form earlier might be mistaken for a Taotie."

    "Taotie? Is it another beast with a face on its chest?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "More or less! It''s a kind of ancient demon beast. If seen, it would cause a panic and might bring serious consequences. So, it''s probably not the best idea if we fight in public," Blue Star exined gravely.

    "Got it," Yun Xiao smirked, pinching Blue Star''s face yfully. "Rx, buddy. I''ve got it all figured out." This path they were on, crucially depended on him. While Blue Star and Red Moon could support him, he shouldn''t solely rely on their strength.

    "Quit pinching me like I''m some cutesy animal! I''m an ancient demon beast!" Blue Star protested, teeth bared.

    "Yeah, yeah," Yun Xiao teased, continuing to pinch, making Blue Star''s protests sound like cute squeaks.

    Blue Star simply shot him a withering re.

    Suddenly, a trembling gaze caught their attention. Under the dim candlelight, Cai Maomao stood at the courtyard entrance, nervously scratching his head.

    "Senior Brother Cai," Yun Xiao offered a shadowy smile in the darkness, "You handle the blood. I''ll handle the bodies, okay?"

    Cai Maomao quickly nodded. "Alright."

    Without another word, Yun Xiao began binding the eleven bodies together, preparing to depart. But just as he was about to leave, Cai Maomao''s trembling voice called out, "Junior Brother!!"

    Yun Xiao turned back, "Yes?"

    Cai Maomao bit his lip, hesitating for a moment, "Never mind..." Whatever words he held back remained a mystery, lingering in the silent night.

    Yun Xiao turned to Cai Maomao and asked a question outright, ¡°Senior Brother Cai, let me ask you something.¡±

    ¡°Go ahead,¡± Cai Maomao replied.

    ¡°Considering we just met, why did you go to such lengths to protect me?¡± Yun Xiao stared intently at him.

    Cai Maomao paused, a little caught off guard. He offered a sheepish grin, replying with some difort, ¡°Well, it''s been a while since the Sword Pavilion had a new disciple. I imagined everyone would be eager to meet you tomorrow. As your Senior Brother, how could I let them bully you? That would be quite the blow to my pride...¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± Yun Xiao interjected, seemingly satisfied with the answer.

    Taking a deep breath, Cai Maomao mustered his courage, finally voicing his lingering thoughts, ¡°Yun Xiao... I heard you''re an orphan. I just wanted to let you know, once you¡¯re in the Sword Pavilion, we¡¯re all family.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Is that so?¡± Yun Xiao chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡±

    Hesitantly, Cai Maomao ventured, ¡°And if you ever felt... theck of a father figure, I could... you know...¡±

    ¡°...Scram!¡± Yun Xiao swiftly turned his back. He didn¡¯t drag the bodies far. All that mattered was that Cai Maomao couldn¡¯t witness the scene that was about to unfold. Again, he summoned the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. His eyes, normally filled with warmth and mischief, now appeared cold and indifferent.

    ¡°Wang Hu¡¯s Sword Soul was shattered by me. Ten remain.¡± Yun Xiao methodically impaled their bones with his Sword Soul, absorbing each one in turn. These souls seemed to descend into an abyss, for the Heaven Burial Sword Soul was an abyss. An azure, thriving abyss at that.

    Among them, the Sword Souls of Wang Feng and Yao Qingqian stood out. Wang Feng''s was Low Comet grade with fiveyers of Sword Aura. Among the disciples in the sect, this was fairly above average! Yao Qingqian''s Sword Soul was High Meteor grade, but possessed eightyers of Sword Aura. Despite the lower rarity, due to the denser Sword Aura, Yao Qingqian''s sword was more potent than Wang Feng¡¯s. This illustrated the importance of Sword Aura.

    But all these nuances mattered little now. The Heaven Burial Sword Soul consumed all ten of them. Their death essence, transformed into the purest of energies, merged with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. In the end, four moreyers of Sword Aura solidified onto Yun Xiao''s sword.

    ¡°A total of nineyers of Sword Aura!¡± Yun Xiao had started with none before embarking on the Heavenly Path. Now, he boasted nine.

    ¡°The moreyers of Sword Aura, the harder it is to umte more,¡± Yun Xiao mused. ¡°So, these ten only added fouryers. It''s understandable.¡± Subsequently, he looted all the Spirit Stones from their bodies.

    Yun Xiao tallied the stones, "Two hundred in total!" Compared to what Yao Qingqian had, it was merely a tenth. This further confirmed that Yao Qingqian was indeed a little heiress of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Sadly for Yun Xiao, her treasures had been devoured by the little ck beast to replenish its energy.

    "These two hundred Spirit Stones, can they be transformed into a Heavenly Dao Sarira?" Yun Xiao asked, turning to hispanions.

    "Absolutely!" Red Moon''s eyes sparkled at the proposal.

    "Don''t you dare skim off the top and hog them all to yourself," Yun Xiao warned.

    Red Moon grinned, revealing a row of sharp teeth. "Don''t worry, I''ll produce a Heavenly Dao Sarira with the essence of...a shoe. Heehee!"

    Yun Xiao rolled his eyes. "Fantastic." He then made onest sweep of the area, murmuring, "Time for a send-off." With a swish of his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, all the traces of the Sword Venerable disciples and Yao Qingqian vanished into smoky wisps, blending back into the universe. Whatever remained that Yun Xiao couldn''t manage was casually discarded into the swirling river below. It was as if they had never been at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. No trace of them was left.

    Just as Yun Xiao prepared to leave, an eerie sensation tingled down his spine. <i>WHOOSH! </i>He spun around. In the woods behind him stood a woman, staring intently at him. Her eyes were bloodshot.

    "Huh...?" Yun Xiao felt a shiver run down his back. If Jiang Yue knew his real identity, she''d probably be looking at him the same way. But as it turned out, he had misread the situation. The woman remained motionless.

    <i>BURP! </i>Suddenly, she let out a drunk hup.

    Yun Xiao''s eyebrows shot up. He slowly approached her, and upon a closer look, he almostughed out loud. She wasn¡¯t possessed or menacing. She was just drunk. Her face wasn''t bloodshot. It was flushed from intoxication.

    Yun Xiao took a moment to size her up. The woman had a tall and slender figure, draped in a form-fitting ck gown that entuated her curves. Her snow-white legs peeked out from under the hem, looking enticingly alluring. Add to that her almond eyes, red lips, and oval face; she was naturally seductive.

    "She''s even more beautiful than Yao Qingqian," Yun Xiao thought. In fact, she was far more beautiful than Yao Qingqian.

    Yao Qingqian, though stunning, had a hint of gaudiness about her, trying too hard to exude an icy elegance, and she was a tad on the older side. But this woman? She was in the prime of her youth. Her raven-ck hair shimmered like moonlit waves, her vast eyes twinkled like distant stars, and her delicate eyshes fluttered like ark''s wingtips. She held an innocence, reminiscent of fresh pear blossoms after a spring rain.

    She looked like a fairy-tale heroine from the Immortal world, her ethereal charm transcending the mundane. Yet, there was one oddity. She''d been drinking. And not just a sip or two, but enough to paint her cheeks the hue of ripe peaches and to veil her gaze with a seductive mist. The corners of her lips lifted in a yful, slightly mischievous grin, and her slender figure wobbled endearingly.

    However, all Yun Xiao could think about was, did she see him disposing of the bodies? He approached her. The rich aroma of wine mingled with her intoxicating fragrance, filling the sultry autumn night.

    "You..." Yun Xiao began.

    But she simply giggled, her eyes narrowing into crescent moons. "Shush," she whispered, cing a delicate finger against her lips. "Take me home." And with those words, she swayed and copsed into Yun Xiao''s arms, pointing weakly in one direction before her energy seemed to vanish. She soon fell into a peaceful slumber.

    Yun Xiao nced in the direction she''d indicated. Atop a distant hill, a solitary dimntern burned. He sighed, resigning himself. <i>Well, I guess I''m taking her home.</i>

    "Milk..." Red Moon''s excited voice was promptly cut off when Blue Star covered its eyes with arge paw. "Careful, we might be walking into the lion''s den!" Blue Star warned.

    "Do I look like a sheep to you?" Red Moon scoffed.

    "I wasn''t talking about you!" Blue Star retorted, exasperated.

    "Then who are you talking about?" Two pairs of eyes simultaneously shot upwards to Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao rolled his eyes. "Both of you, absolute nipoops!"

 Chapter 015 - Osmanthus Tree, Daughters Red

    <h4>Chapter 015 - Osmanthus Tree, Daughter''s Red</h4>

    The night was seductive. A white silhouette darted through the silent woods, holding a woman in a ck dress across his arms. In the depth of the night, her face was as delicate as peach petals, and her breath was fragrant. Clearly intoxicated, her soft handszily draped around the young man''s neck. Her slender waist was supple and her figure alluring, creating an enchanting tableau.

    But then, a huge, gaping maw was on the verge of ruining this serene moment. "Creator, can I peek under her clothes? What if she''s nursing? Come on, please...?!"

    Yun Xiao felt like he was about to lose it. "Shut up! Not so loud! She''s just drunk, not dead!" He whispered frantically, feeling beads of sweat forming on his skin. "What have I gotten myself into?"

    "Creator, I get it! You want to keep her all to yourself!" Red Moon pouted, its crimson eyes shimmering, seemingly on the verge of tears.

    Yun Xiao just sighed deeply. Amidst the gentle night breeze, he nced down. Thedy in his arms was enchantingly beautiful. Her hair flowed like willows in the wind, her face flushed, and her half-closed eyes looked up alluringly. With a mumbled whisper, she clung tighter to Yun Xiao, her nails digging into his neck.

    "Senior Brother... Senior Sister..." she murmured dreamily, her voice filled with dread. "Don''t go to the Northern Wastnds... Don''t go..." Tears filled the corners of her eyes, and she looked tortured as if trapped in a nightmare. "Father! Don''t leave me alone!" she cried out, "Dark Abyss Mountain... Bluedrop g! When... when will you alle home?"

    Listening to her, Yun Xiao realized she was speaking of past wounds, of tragedies buried deep within her heart. Before long, they arrived at her home. Looking up, he saw a wooden que that read, <i>Little Cloud Residence</i>. He kicked open the courtyard door and headed towards the room illuminated by candlelight.

    The courtyard was elegantly designed, with numerous nts and a pond to the south where several koi fish swam. To the north stood an osmanthus tree with whitenterns hanging from its branches, casting ovepping shadows on the stone table beneath. The room, in contrast, was simple, with a meditation cushion, a carved wooden bed, and the rest was filled with books.

    Moving softly, Yun Xiao gently ced the woman on the bed. He was about to turn and leave when a husky yet soft voice rang out from behind, "Care for a drink?" He stopped in his tracks. The woman had already sat up, rubbing her temples as she squinted towards Yun Xiao. The flickering candlelight bestowed a crystalline sheen to her face.

    "I only partake in fine wine," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "There''s Daughter''s Red stashed under the osmanthus tree in the northern part of the yard. Fancy a taste?" she suggested. Staggering slightly, she began to make her way towards the door.

    "Daughter''s Red?" Yun Xiao asked, recognizing the term. Wasn''t that typically reserved for weddings, the father of the bride having specially aged the brew for at least a decade tomemorate the giving away of his daughter? It was quite the delicacy.

    "Turns out, I''ve no use for it anymore. Why let it go to waste?" She smiled, her face flushed from the lingering effects of the alcohol. When she grinned, her eyes crinkled like crescent moons, portraying a yful innocence.

    "How long has it been aged?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "A number of years," she vaguely replied, avoiding disclosing her age. Daughter''s Red was traditionally buried upon a girl''s birth.

    Yun Xiao admitted, having been deprived of wine for three months, his cravings were peaking. Yes, he had a soft spot for liquor. Without further ado, he headed to the north of the yard, and beneath the osmanthus tree, he used his palms to excavate a hidden cache. As the dust settled, numerous exquisite wine jugs were revealed, their rich aroma wafting forth.

    "All this?" Yun Xiao looked back at her, impressed.

    "My father said I had a grand destiny, so he buried extra," she exined. She gracefully approached and took a seat on a stone stool, resting against the square stone table, eyes fixed on Yun Xiao.

    "Bring them all out," she ordered.

    Using his cultivation techniques, Yun Xiao summoned all the jugs of Daughter''s Red to the stone table, creating a hearty pile. He took a seat across from her.

    "Drink up, no need to stand on ceremony," she beckoned. Grinning, she shakily grabbed a jug, uncorked it, and began pouring the amber liquid down her throat. Some of the wine dribbled down her delicate neck, leaving a glistening trail.

    "Cheers." Yun Xiao nodded, maintaining a formal posture and avoiding direct eye contact with her. He looked out towards the Azure Spirit Mountains in the night, taking generous swigs of his drink.

    Both opted for silence, letting the wine fill the gaps in their conversation. They were, after all, strangers. With their sentiments drowned in wine, what more was there to say?

    As Yun Xiao lost himself in the vast expanse of the night, the woman sipped thoughtfully, pondering the myriad experiences life had offered her. Though they sat across from each other, it felt like worlds separated them.

    The wine was divine! Aged to perfection underground for years. One jug... Two jugs... Ten jugs... She was not stingy, and so Yun Xiao indulged without restraint. The stone table was dampened by spilled wine, and the wine jugs on it steadily emptied.

    Flushed with drink, Yun Xiao''s face had gained a ruddy tint, a wild glint dancing in his eyes and a burning passion in his chest. That was his spirit! "The people I killed. You saw it, didn''t you?" After finishing another jug, he lifted a questioning brow towards the alluring woman who seemed barely held up by the stone table.

    She responded with a sillyugh. A mouthful of wine trickled down her lips. In this seemingly ungraceful act, she appeared authentic, and there was a certain charm about it. "In the world''s many affairs, everything can be resolved with a drink," she remarked, passing him another jug of wine.

    "Cheers!" she eximed, her actions bold but her voice gentle.

    "Down it goes." As the wine took hold, Yun Xiao began to open up more. "You''ve already been drunk once. Maybe go easy this time?" he advised.

    "I''m not drunk!" she replied, her voice yful and teasing. She pped the table and challenged, "Are you chickening out, looking for excuses now?"

    "Bullshit!" Yun Xiao thumped his chest proudly, boasting, "Back in the day, at just twelve years old, I drank soldiers under the table! That spirit of mine earned me the title of Invincible Young Hero!"

    "I wasn''t there. I don''t believe it!" she giggled.

    "You don''t need to. Women, all so short-sighted and cold! What would they know about a good drink?" he shot back, gesturing animatedly.

    "You look down on women? Scoundrel, think you can outdrink me?"

    "Who''s afraid of you? Bring it on!"

    "I''ll drink you under the table!"

    Yun Xiao''s head buzzed, his belly felt like it held moltenva, and the world spun around him. In that moment, all he could see clearly was her flushed face and the whitenterns hanging from the sweet osmanthus tree.

    "I can''t lose!" That was him, everpetitive. Once his fighting spirit rose, he never backed down, not even in death. Wine could muddle the senses! But it also had the power to unleash everything buried deep within, erupting like a volcano. The vast Azure Spiritndscape and the silent night only amplified his profound sense of loneliness.

    His parents had left him too early. At twelve years old! At that tender age, he wore the imperial robes and sat on the throne. He had no one by his side to help, guide, or mentor him. Everyone considered him a mere puppet. But with his determination and strength, in a mere span of four years, he carved out a path fit for an Emperor. At twelve years old, he dominated the Cloud Nation! Unwavering to the ancestors! Steadfast to the people! And most of all... true to his parents!

    However, a loneliness persisted deep within Yun Xiao''s heart. In this vast world, he felt isted, as if there was an invisible wall between him and everyone else. He tried to let down his guard with Jiang Yue, to tear down that wall. But just as he made a little progress, she stabbed him in the back with her Sword Soul.

    Yun Xiao thought death would be his end. But fate had other ns in mind for him... the ghostly realm, reincarnation, and avenging his own death by annihting the entire Jiang Family. Driven by a burning vengeance in his heart, he made his way to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Now, with an unstoppable drive and ambition for the future, no one could block his path to greatness.

    However, the loneliness in his heart wasn¡¯t something that could be dispelled just by ying a few foes. Only the fiery burn of strong liquor could sear it away. And Yun Xiao loved his drink. Tonight, the mellow warmth of this vintage had thawed his cold loneliness, transforming him into a passionate being, letting him revel in its intense embrace.

    "Ha... ha..." At some point, Yun Xiao found himself sitting on the stone table, leaning close to the bewitching woman. She swung her jade-like legs back and forth, humming a tune, her face flushed from the drink, and looking incredibly alluring. His vision was blurry, his nose filled with the aroma of wine and the intoxicating scent of the beauty before him. All he could see were her captivating drunken antics and her enchanting, inebriated smile, resembling a bewitching blossom.

    Only one jug of wine remained. As Yun Xiao and the woman jostled for it, their hands sped together. <i>KLANG! </i>The wine pot crashed to the ground. Their eyes met, locked in a fiery gaze. Her eyes, they seemed like a raging sea of passion, burning intensely, challenging Yun Xiao. Their touching fingertips felt like a bridge of flickering mes.

    "Are you up for it?" she teased, a yful challenge evident in her intoxicated gaze.

    "Bring it on!" Yun Xiao replied, his eyes a fierce shade of red.

    "Then let''s go!" she said, pulling him closer.

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao eximed, sweeping her into his arms.

    "Wait, what''s going on here?" Blue Star and Red Moon asked in unison, puzzled.

    Before they could get their bearings, Yun Xiao grabbed them and flung them tens of feet away. They crashed into a crevice between tworge rocks, almost getting squashed.

    They were bbergasted.

    "What in the world is happening?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the courtyard, shadows of the osmanthus trees swayed. The stone table quivered, and the fish in the pond were startled. Everything seemed anew.

    "Lil Blue, what in the heavens are they doing?" Red Moon looked perplexed.

    "Mating!" Blue Star rolled its eyes dramatically. "What did you think? That every creature in this realm hopped out of rocks?"

    "I don''t understand," Red Moon said, looking even more confused.

    "Numbskull, you don¡¯t need to." Blue Star suddenly burst intoughter. "But now, I get it!"

    "You get what exactly?" Red Moon retorted, clearly irked.

    "Creator and Yun Xiao, they''re not the same," Blue Star said solemnly.

    "What''s so different about them?" Red Moon inquired.

    "Creator isn''t exactly alive. He''s more of a principle. He has no humanity, only divinity. Yun Xiao, on the other hand, is human and full of emotions!"

    "With this rebirth of his, he will surely craft a unique Creator Immortal!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Dawn slowly began to creep over the horizon. Yun Xiao''s head throbbed, a painful reminder of the previous night''s indulgence. He shook his head to clear the fog and tried to focus. In front of him, a woman stood, her back to him, her figure outlined by the shadows of the trees. Memories ofst night''s escapade flooded back. At the time, it felt natural, but now he realized, it was just the alcohol ying tricks on his senses. What''s done was done. His eyes shifted to the stone table where vibrant red, reminiscent of peonies, caught his attention.

    "Was that... your first time?" He hadn''t expected it. Otherwise, he would have shown some restraint. She didn¡¯t turn, so he couldn¡¯t see her expression.

    "Aren''t you the same...?" Her voice sounded carefree, not that much of a surprise given she''d been the proactive one.

    Yun Xiao, slightly embarrassed, admitted, "In the mortal world, I was an Emperor. When I reached the right age, the pce arranged my... initiation."

    She remained silent.

    "But it was never heartfelt," Yun Xiao added.

    "Was this time any different?" she asked coolly.

    "I don¡¯t even know your name," Yun Xiao replied.

    She pointed towards the gate of the courtyard and dered, "What happened is water under the bridge. No need to dwell on it. Now, leave."

    "Alright, until we meet again," Yun Xiao said, nodding.

    With that, he turned to descend the mountain. Along the way, he reached into a crevice, plucking a small, dark creature.

    "You''re just going to leave like this?" Blue Star asked, his voice echoing with a hint of yfulness.

    "In the vast journey to immortality, if our fates are intertwined, we''ll meet again," Yun Xiao responded.

    A chuckle escaped Blue Star. "The Creator Immortal was like an innocent child born from chaos, devoid of desires and wants. Yun Xiao, on the other hand, is a lone traveler in the mortal world, embodying all aspects of human vice, especially lust!"

    "You could''ve stopped at <i>human vice</i>, you know. Why''d you have to tack on the <i>lust</i>?" Yun Xiao shot back, a hint of exasperation in his voice.

    Before he could continue, Red Moon interrupted, "Enough of that! Where''s my milk?"

    Yun Xiao''s expression was one of utter disbelief. "Good heavens, can you stop being such a dimwit for once? How about this? When I descend the mountain, I''ll catch you a cow, alright? Please, for the love of all things sacred, stop embarrassing yourself in front of thedies. Got it?"

    Red Moon''s brows knitted in genuine confusion. "Why is a female cow not embarrassing, but a human female is?" It couldn''t understand the intricacies of human nature, or the need for tact.

    Yun Xiao sighed heavily. "It''s called a woman, not a human female.''"

    "Fine, then catch me a woman cow," Red Moon retorted cheekily.

    Yun Xiao simply stared, dumbfounded.

    Upon returning home¡ªwell, to Cai Maomao''s home, to be precise¡ªBlue Star casually regurgitated a few deep-red Heavenly Dao Sarira beads.

    "For the Dragon Spring Realm, you just need to harness your energy. Eat up! They have a... shall we say, feminine taste," Blue Star cackled.

    "Down the hatch, then," Yun Xiao murmured, thinking it''d help sober him up. Seating himself amidst the verdant forest, he began to draw in the spiritual energy surrounding him. His Dantian pulsed, melding with the Heavenly Dao Sariras as he channeled the Primordial Void Technique, summoning a profound power.

    "You should focus on iming Ye Guying''s Twin Dantians soon," Blue Star sighed, breaking the meditative silence. "Your current mortal form is... a tad frail."

    "Frail? I battled until dawn!" Yun Xiao retorted defensively.

    "And you don''t think that''s a sign of weakness?" Blue Star scoffed.

    Suddenly, an epiphany struck Yun Xiao. With a mischievous grin, he lifted Blue Star by the scruff of the neck, peering at it closely. Bursting intoughter, he eximed, "Ah! You don''t have a... certain something!"

    Both Blue Star and Red Moon were silent, faces unreadable. "We just don''t have a defined gender yet," Blue Star finally countered, a bit defensively.

    "Watch, I''ll grow one!" Red Moon piped in. "No, make it ten! One on my head, back, and even my mouth!"

    Yun Xiao was in stitches, hisughter echoing throughout the forest. Inside his Dantian, the formless dragon absorbed the Heavenly Dao Sariras and spiritual energy, growing rapidly. He had reached the Late Dragon Spring Realm. The formless dragon now bore three ws and seemed to be growing everrger.

    In that moment, Yun Xiao''s cultivation equaled Cai Maomao''s. Yet, when it came to rawbat prowess, he might have already been on par with a five-wed cultivator at the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm.

    "However, I''ve heard that the pinnacle of each major realm, the Establishment stage, is always a cut above the previous four stages," he mused. So whether he could challenge the pinnacle of the Dragon Spring Realm was still an open question. It was, after all, the strongest stage beneath the Divine Sea Realm.

    "The Seven Swords Conve is just days away," Yun Xiao murmured, eyes sharpening. "I must find a way to grow stronger to face the Divine Sea Realm challengers." Suddenly, he rose to his feet, his aura robust and ever-growing.

    "Junior Brother Yun!" As Yun Xiao returned, Cai Maomao appeared flustered, his hair a messy sprawl.

    "What happened?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "You were gone all night! I thought you might''ve fallen into a ditch while disposing of bodies or something," Cai Maomao admitted, exhaling deeply.

    Then, sniffing Yun Xiao, his eyes widened. "Where''d you get the wine? I didn''t see you bring any to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect."

    "Never mind that, Senior Brother Cai. Weren''t you taking me to the Sword Pavilion today?" Yun Xiao quickly diverted.

    "Right! Everyone''s waiting for you! Let''s go," Cai Maomao smacked his forehead, hurriedly saying.

    "Alright, lead the way," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Before leaving, Cai Maomao leaned in, conspiratorially whispering, "One more thing you should know."

    "What?"

    "Senior Sister Zhao might be there," Cai Maomao said, lowering his voice further.

    "Oh? She''s the current head of the Sword Pavilion?"

    "Yes! But be careful," he cautioned. "She''s as beautiful as her name suggests, but you must watch your words around her. She''s dangerous. Our brothers have often suffered under her hand."

    "Her name represents her looks?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    Cai Maomao looked around, lowering his voice to a near whisper, "Her name is Zhao Xuanran."

    "That sounds rather masculine. Does it mean she looks like a man?" Yun Xiao blinked.

    "Are you dense? It''s an idiom! A four word idiom that starts with her name," Cai Maomao replied exasperatedly.

    "Xuanran? Great big, big... b-bazong¡ª" Yun Xiao nearly bit his tongue trying to process it. "What the hell! Lewd!" It reminded him of the night before. Back then, his vision was blurred, and he thought he saw two whitenterns swaying in front of him. Later, he realized they were notnterns at all.

 Chapter 016 - Sword Pavilion Disbanded!

    <h4>Chapter 016 - Sword Pavilion Disbanded!</h4>

    The Grand Hall was the most solemn ce in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. The sprawling edifice stood magnificent against the horizon, its exterior za expansive and imposing. However, what struck Yun Xiao the most was the signboard hanging atop the entrance¡ªa que of azure and gold. Inscribed upon it were four powerful characters, each stroke resembling the edge of a de.

    "Evesting Noble Spirit...!" Yun Xiao whispered as he read them. To be honest, the towering hall in front of him, with green mountains and floating clouds, and the distant sound of ethereal music... This was the very image of the Immortal''s world he''d dreamt of in his childhood. And now, that dream was realized.

    Yun Xiao and Cai Maomao stood before the Grand Hall. As the sun broke the dawn, sending a golden haze across the foggynd, about ten or so people were waiting for them outside the hall.

    "So many people?" Yun Xiao murmured.

    Cai Maomao chuckled awkwardly, "Not many! This is all that remains of our Sword Pavilion." Each of the Seven Peaks house thousands of Sword Cultivators. Compared to that, the main branch of Azure Spirit was now noticeably diminished.

    "Here he is! The newest member of our Sword Pavilion, Yun Xiao!" Cai Maomao enthusiastically introduced. Among them, the one he seemed to respect the most was an elderly man in grey. With a full head of white hair, the old man was called Grandpa Qin by Cai Maomao. Grandpa Qin''s eyes were cloudy, clearly blind, but his face wore a smile.

    In addition to Grandpa Qin, three elders¡ªtwo men and one woman, all middle-aged Sword Cultivators¡ªwere introduced as Elder Zhou, Elder Zheng, and Elder Wang. There were also some disciples around Yun Xiao''s age.

    Cai Maomao pointed at a beautiful woman in a green robe, "Junior Brother Yun, this is Sister Qin Tong, Grandpa Qin''s granddaughter. She''s also... well, my future partner in the Dao... The others are all single!"

    "Who said I''m your Dao Partner, you shameless buffoon?" Qin Tong retorted, chasing after Cai Maomao and giving him a yful smack.

    Everyone was used to their antics andughed at their disy.

    "Junior Brother Yun''s looks are simply divine!" Luo Jiang, another disciple, remarked with admiration.

    "To be frank... It''s enough to make this brother''s heart race," Luo Hai added with a chuckle.

    A few female disciples were also quietly sizing Yun Xiao up, whispering among themselves.

    "So handsome."

    "Never thought a man could look so ethereal."

    "If someone in this world could truly be an Immortal, he should definitely possess such stunning features."

    ...

    It was undeniable. Even Yun Xiao felt that his appearance, a gift from the Creator Immortal, was simply exceptional when he looked in the mirror. Familiarity on the path to immortality needed no prior acquaintance. After some light-hearted conversations, Yun Xiao quickly blended in.

    "You''re all just focusing on the superficial. Not only is my junior''s face striking, but his talents are also unparalleled!" Cai Maomao boasted, slinging an arm around Yun Xiao''s shoulders.

    "Really?" The ever-smiling Grandpa Qin inquired, "Yun Xiao, have you tested your Sword Soul on the Heavenly Path? What grade was it?"

    Yun Xiao replied with a hint of embarrassment, "Grandpa Qin, the Sword Inheritance Stone exploded."

    The gathering fell silent for a moment.

    "I get it," Elder Zhoumented, "Yun Xiao and that prodigious talent from the First Sword Peak, Jiang Yue, must have tested their Sword Souls at the same time." When mentioning Jiang Yue, respect was evident in his eyes. "For the first time in the history of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, there''s been a talent whose Sword Soul shattered the stone," he mused.

    Although this incident had been the talk of the town the night before, the mere mention of it still sent shivers down everyone''s spine.

    "That''s nothing! My buddy Yun Xiao here was first on the Heavenly Path, even surpassing Jiang Yue, and got himself a five-century-old demon bone as a reward!" Cai Maomao eximed with a smirk.

    "Seriously?" The members of the Sword Pavilion looked surprised. The buzz about Jiang Yue had overshadowed Yun Xiao''s achievement, so they weren''t aware of it.

    Grandpa Qin chuckled, "It seems Yun Xiao is quite talented!"

    "Indeed!" Qin Tong nodded in agreement.

    "If anyone dares call Junior Brother Yun just a pretty face, they''ll have to deal with me," Cai Maomao dered with a hint of humor.

    "In this lifetime, just defeating a super Comet grade talent like Jiang Yue is already an achievement to be proud of!" a young girl in a purple dress named Zhou Zi remarked with admiration.

    Grandpa Qin, ever curious, asked, "Yun Xiao, would you be willing to show everyone your Sword Soul?"

    A Sword Cultivator''s prowess could be gauged by revealing their Sword Soul.

    "Sure!" Opening his palm, a three-foot-long azure Sword Soul gently spun, emanating a powerful aura.

    "Is that... a Green Lotus Sword Soul?" a disciple murmured.

    The type of Sword Soul was rtivelymon. In terms of quality, Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul was ranked at the lower end in the sect. He anticipated some disappointed faces. But to his surprise, they responded with admiration. "Impressive! Truly impressive!"

    "Yun Xiao, you''ve just started, but you''ve already attained nineyers of Sword Aura. That''s even higher than the three elders here!"

    "It seems, besides acquiring that five-century-old demon bone, you''ve also been doing your duty of ying demons and killing many creatures!"

    Grandpa Qin might have been blind, but he could sense energies. He had a fairly good idea of what was happening. "Indeed, it''s a nineyer Sword Aura! This aura... it''s so powerful."

    "My Sword Soul might be of a higher grade than Junior Brother Yun''s, but I only have a threeyer Sword Aura. His Sword Soul''s power is much greater than mine," Qin Tong remarked, genuinely surprised.

    "Exactly!" Grandpa Qin nodded approvingly, addressing Yun Xiao with a weighty tone, "Young man, the grade of the Sword Soul doesn''t matter. Who said one with a low grade Sword Soul can''t dominate? The grade is the constraint given by the heavens, but the Sword Aura is our pathway to the skies! Never be disheartened!"

    "I understand," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Indeed! With a nineyer Sword Aura, he can even rival those with Comet grade Sword Souls," Elder Zheng said, the only female Sword Cultivator among the elders.

    "Excellent! Truly excellent! Our Sword Pavilion has gained another prodigious Sword Cultivator!" Grandpa Qin eximed with delight. He produced a dark green badge, a token of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect''s discipleship, and handed it solemnly to Yun Xiao.

    "Yun Xiao..." Grandpa Qin dered with gravity, "Carve your name onto this badge. From now on, the Sword Pavilion will be your backbone. We are your guides on the path to immortality, and the other disciples will be your brothers and sisters. We share our honor and our challenges."

    "Yes, sir." Yun Xiao received the badge with both hands, a hint of pride shining in his eyes.

    "Once an Azure Spirit disciple, always an Azure Spirit disciple!" Grandpa Qin dered, his voice husky, every word heavy with a lifetime of memories.

    On the front of the dark green badge was engraved the word <i>Sword Pavilion</i>. With the Sword Soul in hand, Yun Xiao delicately inscribed his name onto the badge''s ck back. From that moment, he was the Sword Pavilion''s very own Yun Xiao. As the final stroke settled, the younger disciples around him broke into cheerful grins.

    "It''s been three years since we''ve had a new disciple in the Sword Sect!"

    "Our Junior Brother Yun is the most handsome in Azure Spirit. No doubt about that, right?" Cai Maomao chimed in, beaming.

    "Why the hell does his handsomeness matter to you?" Qin Tong snapped with a yful roll of her eyes.

    Grandpa Qin let out a heartyugh. Then, turning to the three elders, he asked, "What about the initiation gifts?"

    "I''ll start," said Elder Zhou, stepping forward, his gaze full of emotion and intent. After a brief hesitation, he took out a jade vial from his robe. "The Sword Pavilion has seen hard times these past three years, and my pockets aren''t as full as they once were. But I gift to you this single Dragon Spring Pill. May you always walk alongside your sword, soar beyond the clouds, and live as free as your name suggests." With that, he handed the jade vial to Yun Xiao.

    "Dragon Spring Pill!" The other disciples exchanged envious nces upon hearing this.

    Elder Zhou watched Yun Xiao''s reaction and teased, "What''s the matter? Is it beneath you?"

    "No," Yun Xiao responded, holding the vial closely, "I just don''t feel worthy." The Dragon Spring Pill, while not as potent as the Divine Sea Pill, was a rare pill that would boost the energy of those in the Dragon Spring Realm. For ordinary elders like Elder Zhou, it was a significant gift.

    "No worries," Elder Zhou said, patting Yun Xiao''s shoulder. "The first lesson for a man cultivating the path of Iimmortality is to be straightforward, no dilly-dallying."

    "You trying to say female Cultivators are all talk?" Elder Zheng quipped, stepping forward. She handed Yun Xiao another jade vial, her eyebrows raised defiantly, "Here''s another Dragon Spring Pill. Refuse it, and it means you''re looking down on women!"

    Yun Xiao was at a loss for words.

    Thest elder, a chubby man named Wang, also handed Yun Xiao a Dragon Spring Pill,ughing heartily, "Young man, you truly are a looker!"

    Grandpa Qin, not wanting to be outdone, pulled out an evenrger vial and tossed it to Yun Xiao. "Catch! Three inside."

    A total of six Dragon Spring Pills! Theyy heavy in Yun Xiao''s hands, their weight symbolic of the hopes and expectations of the sect. Facing the benevolent gaze of the elders, he found himself speechless.

    "You are our first disciple in three years," Grandpa Qin began softly, "a beacon of hope for all of us. So, don''t feel burdened.

    "We of the Sword Pavilion, we''ve watched our traditions fade," he continued, his voice heavy with emotion. "You understand that pain, don''t you?"

    "But what about them?" Yun Xiao asked, turning to look at his newfound senior brothers and sisters. He knew they hadn''t received such care. Their envious nces gave it all away.

    "Junior Brother Yun." Qin Tong nced around at the group and then continued, "You''re our junior. As your senior brothers and sisters, we only wish the best for you. It''s just the natural order of things!"

    "That''s right!"

    "ept them!"

    "If you don''t, I''ll dly take a couple!" Cai Maomao said, his eyes nearly bleeding with envy.

    "Shut it!" Qin Tong smothered his mouth.

    "Mmm... Murdering your husband!" Cai Maomao protested.

    Laughter once again rippled throughout the hall.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze settled on the genuinely jovial group and the noble-hearted elders. He suddenly felt that being ced in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect by the seven great Sword Peaks was quite the stroke of luck. "It seems the path of cultivation isn''t as brutal as they say. The true brutalityes from people," he mused, "And every person is unique."

    With that, Yun Xiao graciously epted the six Dragon Spring Pills. His heart, like those six pills, found its home amidst the green mountains and blue waters.

    "Dear elders, Yun Xiao''s initiation to the Immortal Path rests in your hands," Grandpa Qin said, turning to the three elders..

    "I excel in the Flying Sword. I can guide him in that art," Elder Zheng remarked with a gentle smile.

    "My specialty is the Palm Sword, perfect for closebat," Elder Zhou said.

    "And as for the art of soaring the skies on the Sovereign Sword, leave that to good old me!" Elder Wang chuckled, his belly jiggling.

    Upon seeing Elder Wang''s hefty figure and thinking about him soaring in the sky, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but cough a little. A rather impolite image of a flying pig danced at the back of his mind.

    "Still, this is great!" Yun Xiao began, "I might have a Sword Soul, but I''ve never trained in Flying Swords, Palm Swords, or the Sovereign Sword. These skills are pivotal, whether it''s manipting a flying sword, using the Palm Sword for closebat, or wandering the world on a Sovereign Sword."

    These were lessons the Azure Spirit Sword Sect could bestow upon him. Red Moon and Blue Star, from that ancient bronze coffin, only contained pinnacle Dao techniques without these foundationalbat arts. In other words, these three elders were invaluable mentors in his Immortal journey.

    "Thank you Grandpa Qin. Thank you three elders," Yun Xiao expressed his gratitude, his heart burning with fervor.

    "When can you start your sword training?" Elder Zhou asked straight out.

    "Anytime!" Yun Xiao replied.

    "Elder Zhou, for now, Yun Xiao is staying with me," Cai Maomao dered proudly.

    "Fine, then every morning, bring him to me for Palm Sword training," Elder Zhou instructed.

    "In the afternoon, he can practice his Sovereign Sword with me," Elder Wang added.

    "And when night falls, it''s the perfect time for Flying Sword attacks. Bring Yun Xiao to me then," Elder Zheng said.

    Their dedication was palpable. They were eager to set Yun Xiao on his cultivation path.

    This was the Grand Hall!

    Yun Xiao cast his eyes once more upon the inscription on the que that read <i>Evesting Noble Spirit</i>. "I''ve always heard that the Sword Pavilion embodies the spirit of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect," he murmured to himself. Today, he felt the weight of that legacy. A majestic spirit that lived on forever! Surrounded by mountains with birds soaring above, ethereal clouds, clear springs, and swords thatmanded respect from all directions, he loved it here.

    However, the peaceful atmosphere was suddenly shattered. <i>Whoosh! Whoosh! </i>A group of Sword Cultivators arrived, flying on their swords. They darted low, their Sword Souls sweeping through the dense forests of the Pavilion, causing birds and beasts to scatter in rm and leaves to sever from branches. Their arrival was the height of rudeness.

    <i>ng! ng! </i>More than twenty figures descended in front of the magnificent hall, raising a cloud of dust, heading straight towards the gathered members of the pavilion, expressions mocking.

    "They''re from the Eight Swords Assembly..." Elder Zhou''s face shifted slightly.

    "What do they want?" Grandpa Qin''s expression was frosty.

    "If I had to guess," Elder Zheng''s voice wasced with fiery anger, "thesepdogs of the First Sword Venerable are here to force our pavilion to disband and banish us from the Azure Spirit."

    "All on the ount of the Eight Swords Conve?" Elder Wang clenched his fists, his voice filled with determination, "If they dare to dismantle the pavilion, I''ll stake my life against theirs!"

    Eight Swords Assembly? Yun Xiao was unfamiliar with this faction. Moreover, wasn''t it the Seven Swords Conve? He took a step back, standing beside Grandpa Qin, alongside his fellow disciples.

    "Zhou Zi, go fetch Sister Zhao," Elder Zheng whispered to a young woman in purple robes.

    "Yes." Zhou Zi left quietly.

    By now, the group of over twenty people had boldly approached the front of the hall. The man leading them was a middle-aged figure in a bright red sword robe. With a long beard and eyes that seemed ame, his breath was like a steel whip, his movements exuding an imposing air.

    "That''s the Third Sword Venerable, Wu Wu," Cai Maomao whispered with distaste into Yun Xiao''s ear.

    The Third Sword Venerable? Yun Xiao knew that the Azure Spirit had seven sword peaks, and the leader of each peak was a Sword Venerable.

    "Elder Wu?" Yun Xiao didn''t recognize the Third Sword Venerable, but he did recognize the man standing next to him. The man had a coarse appearance, none other than Elder Wu Yu of the Third Sword Peak, who had previously been close to Yao Qingqing on the Sword Inheritance tform.

    Besides the Third Sword Venerable and Elder Wu Yu, most of the others were also elders, their ages all over 35 years old. Each had a deep, piercing gaze, all wearing unsettling smiles.

    "Blind Qin," the Third Sword Venerable smirked, his voice dripping with sarcasm, "It''s been a while. Never expected you to still be around, flourishing in your old age?" His very first words sent a ripple of anger through the members of the Sword Pavilion.

    Grandpa Qin stroked his long beard, the corners of his lips lifting in amusement. "Naturally, I''ve umted good karma all my life, so it''s only fair that I live this long. On the other hand, Wu Wu, with all the bad deeds under your belt, I reckon you''d have to reincarnate a few times just to catch up."

    The Third Sword Venerable chuckled, hisughter hearty and infectious. "You always did have a sense of humor." However, a fleeting fiery malevolence shed in his eyes, not escaping Yun Xiao''s keen observation.

    "Wu Yu, hand over the roster," the Third Sword Venerable beckoned.

    "Yes, Sword Venerable!" Elder Wu Yu promptly retrieved a bamboo scroll and passed it forward.

    Grandpa Qin, addressing the Third Sword Venerable, chimed in. "Wu Wu! Have you lost your ability to count? It''s the Eight Swords Conve in Azure Spirit, not seven!"

    On hearing this, Yun Xiao whispered to Cai Maomao beside him, "Eight Swords Conve? What''s the difference?"

    "There''s never been a Seven Swords Conve," Cai Maomao hissed through gritted teeth. "They''re deliberately mocking us."

    There was no need for further exnation. Yun Xiao understood the insinuation.

    At this point, the Third Sword Venerable said with a cheeky grin, "Fine, fine. Eight it is. Just give us the names for the tournament, and we''ll be on our way. We won''t even take a single thread from here." His tone dripping with sarcasm, several of Yun Xiao''s fellow disciples nearby bristled with anger.

    Elder Zhou stepped forward, reaching out for the roster. Yet, just as he was about to grasp it, the Third Sword Venerable snatched it away, leaving Elder Zhou clutching at thin air.

    Elder Zhou frowned, "What''s the meaning of this?"

    The Third Sword Venerable smirked, "I just thought... given the Azure Spirit Sword Sect''s spirit, shouldn''t all eligible disciples participate in the challenge?"

    Elder Wu Yu burst intoughter, adding fuel to the fire. "Exactly! After all, the disciples here, all added up, barely make a handful of misfits. Just a few strokes of the pen, and I can fill it out for Elder Zhou."

    The atmosphere was electric, and the tension palpable. The yful jabs and jests were not lost on anyone present.

    Elder Zhou huffed, a fierce determination burning in his eyes. "Alright, then, you do it! Everyone in the pavilion will fight!" Beneath his robe, his fingernails nearly dug into his flesh, such was the force of his anger.

    Elder Wu, with a smirk, epted the roster. But just as he was about to make a mark, he feigned shock, his eyebrows raised dramatically. "Good heavens, what a disaster!"

    "What could possibly have shocked you so?" The Third Sword Venerable teased, a mocking glint in his eyes.

    Elder Wu sighed dramatically, ying his role. "Oh, this is quite the pickle."

    The other members from the Eight Swords Assembly leaned in, curiosity piqued. "What is it, Elder Wu?"

    With a face full of mock pity, Elder Wumented, "Upon my calctions, it seems that Zhao Xuanran is twenty-two this year. She''s overage and can''t participate in the Eight Swords Conve. Without her, the Sword Pavilion won''t have its Top Sword!"

    A ripple of feigned shock spread. "No Top Sword? ording to the Azure Spirit Laws, they can''t participate without one!"

    "To think, the prestigious main branch of Azure Spirit, doesn¡¯t even have a chance to be the underdog in the Eight Swords Conve!"

    The expressions of the Eight Sword Assembly members were a mix of faux pity and poorly-hidden glee.

    The Third Sword Venerable yed along, looking shocked. "Elder Wu, you better not be spouting nonsense. How pathetic would a sword lineage have to be to not even participate in the Eight Sword Conve? Is the Azure Spirit''s long-standing tournament going to go from the Eight Swords Conve to the Seven Swords Conve instead?"

    Elder Wu, tapping into his inner drama king, put on a mournful face. "Not being able to participate is a minor issue, but ording to the Azure Spirit Laws, there''s something even more heartbreaking!"

    "Heartbreaking?" The Third Sword Venerable feigned surprise, pping Wu on the shoulder. "Do enlighten our sword brethren here about this heartbreak."

    Elder Wu cleared his throat, taking on a somber tone. "When the eight sword factions united under the banner of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, we set down the eight Azure Spirit Laws. Law number eight states..." His voice dropped, letting the suspense hang in the air. "Should any branch be so weak that they can''t even partake in the Eight Swords Conve, they must dissolve immediately and leave the domain of Azure Spirit!"

 Chapter 017 - No Need for Thanks, Im a Kind Person!

    <h4>Chapter 017 - No Need for Thanks, I''m a Kind Person!</h4>

    The words of Elder Wu hung in the air, leaving a silence that swallowed the surroundings like a ravenous beast.

    "WHAAAT?!" The Third Sword Venerable was visibly shaken, his voice a mixture of disbelief and outrage. His hands found their way to Elder Wu''s robes, clutching them tightly. "Say that one more time, will you?" he thundered, his face a canvas of shock and anger.

    Elder Wu didn''t shrink back, instead, he pounded his chest for emphasis. "The Sword Pavilion has to disband! All these people will have to pack up and vacate this paradise of lush mountains and clear waters! This... this is the main branch of Azure Spirit that has won the championship in the Eight Swords Conve for a hundred consecutive years. What a piss-poor situation!"

    "You idiot!" The Third Sword Venerable pped him on the forehead, correcting him fiercely, "Don''t call them piss-poor! This is a tragedy!"

    "Right, right, my mistake," Elder Wu amended hastily, smirking with a sinister grace as he addressed the crowd from the Sword Pavilion. "But the part about the Pavilion disbanding is true."

    "It truly breaks my heart!" The Third Sword Venerable said, his voice dripping with mock sorrow. "After they tuck their tails and run, shall I burn three sticks of incense on this mountain as tribute?" Unable to contain himself any longer, he burst intoughter, a cacophony that echoed ominously in the silent surroundings.

    "To mourn the youth that the Sword Pavilion will inevitably lose?" he added, hisughter ringing out again, this time joined by the amused chuckles of other members of the Eight Swords Assembly.

    In stark contrast, the members of the Sword Pavilion stood frostily, their faces reflecting the icy bitterness within their hearts. They were being humiliated, yet the current frailty of their branch was an undeniable reality, and the Azure Spirit Laws were irond. Even as the jeers andughs pierced their hearts like des, what could they possibly do against this harsh reality?

    "It''s all your fault!" Qin Tong burst out, her eyes zing with suppressed anger. "It''s because you and those despicable fools from the First Sword Peak colluded with the demons in the Northern Wastnd! You caused the death of the seven prodigies of the Sword Pavilion and forced the Sect Master to shatter his sword. Our downfall is your doing, you power-hungry, heartless beings! You are the disgrace of Azure Spirit!"

    "Shut your mouth!" Elder Wu snapped back, his face contorted with anger. "You can ingest whatever nonsense you want, but watch your words! ndering a Sword Venerable and an elder like this, do you want to end up in the Sword Prison?"

    "Lil Tong!" A stern voice called out, halting her tirade. Grandpa Qin had spoken. Despite her immense anger and resentment, Qin Tong knew arguing with these people would yield nothing. Their shamelessness knew no bounds. How could they possibly fight back?

    "Don''t worry too much, Junior Sister Qin." Just then, a burly young man stepped forward from beside the Third Sword Venerable, his features sharp and upright.

    "Wu Jianyang!" Qin Tong red at him, her voice cold as ice.

    With a slight smile that held a trace of arrogance, Wu Jianyang said, "I understand your worry is solely about being expelled from the Azure Spirit. But rest assured, after the Sword Pavilion disbands, you can join me at the Third Sword Peak. Be my Dao Partner, and in a few years, we can even pay your grandfather a final tribute together."

    "Like hell she will! Go fuck yourself!" Cai Maomao couldn''t hold back anymore, his roar echoing in the area. "You should think about giving your own father a proper send-off first!" He couldn''t believe the audacity of Wu Jianyang, trying to snatch Qin Tong right in front of him, and with no sincerity at that! His words about paying a final tribute were clearly taunts, nothing more.

    As Cai Maomao''s words fell, Wu Jianyang turned his gaze on him, a slow, mocking smile unfolding on his face. "You''re the brother of the Seventh Prodigy of the Sword Pavilion, Cai Qingyun, aren''t you?"

    "That''s right," Cai Maomao responded defiantly. "The same one who knocked your teeth out all over the ce three years ago!"

    Wu Jianyang shrugged nonchntly, his face creasing into a smile that resembled the sinister curl of a cruel weapon. ¡°He really was something, wasn¡¯t he? A pity he didn¡¯tst long,¡± he remarked with an oily sneer, his voice dripping with faux pity. ¡°To show my utmost respect, I filled his grave-side cup with urine when I ascended the mountain earlier.¡±

    ¡°Wu Jianyang!!¡± A visceral rage tore through Cai Maomao, igniting his blood and ring in his eyes¡ªa tant desecration of the dead was an unforgivable sin. His brother, Cai Qingyun, had always been his role model, his pir of strength even in death. And now, this contemptuous scoundrel had defiled his memory. Even if the Sword Pavilion had fallen to rock bottom, his brother was a true hero, a figure who was revered as a beacon of valor in the eyes of the people across the thousand nations, a warrior who hadid down his life in battle against demonic creatures.

    Cai Maomao couldn''t contain his fury any longer. ¡°You have gone too far!¡± he thundered, his voice echoing like a thunderp amidst the tension-drenched atmosphere. This was the son of the Third Sword Venerable? His very being oozed nothing but shamelessness and deceit, embodying the nefarious spirit that seemed to gue the members of the Third Sword Peak, from top to bottom. They hade here today specifically to show off their superiority and insult the members of the Sword Pavilion mercilessly.

    ¡°Hold your horses,¡± the Third Sword Venerable chimed in with a smug chuckle, seemingly enjoying the distress that was coursing through the members of the Sword Pavilion. His tone was thick with condescension as he ryed a message from the First Sword Venerable. ¡°He wanted me to tell you all not to panic. If you pledge your loyalty to the First Sword Peak, bringing along the Sword Arts and Daoist Spells of the Sword Pavilion, he''ll generously offer you a ce in their ranks. After all, you are all just part of Zhao Xuanran''s dowry, aren''t you?¡±

    Wu Yu, the unscrupulous elder, chimed in with glee, ¡°Don¡¯t fret. Truly, don¡¯t. Just change your affiliations, shake off the old, and you¡¯ll still be a proud Sword Cultivator of Azure Spirit!¡± His voice echoed with mocking cheerfulness before his face turned sinister. He gazed at the que adorned on the mighty gate and spat a glob of thick saliva onto the words <i>Evesting Noble Spirit</i> with disdain, a gesture symbolizing the humiliation of an ancient legacy.

    A sharp crack reverberated through the space as the que quivered under the disgrace, an insult that echoed through centuries of honor and glory.

    Grandpa Qin¡¯s face twisted grotesquely, his aged eyes filled with bloodshot strands of anguish and wrath. In a surge of bitter fury, he pushed away his beloved granddaughter Qin Tong, charging towards the Third Sword Venerable with clenched fists, ready to fight for the honor of the Sword Pavilion.

    However, his advance halted abruptly as a calming hand reached out to restrain him. The familiar face caused the furious elder to freeze in his tracks.

    ¡°Yun Xiao?¡± To everyone¡¯s surprise, it was the newly initiated Yun Xiao who had stepped forward, his demeanor an oasis of calm amidst the tempest of rage and resentment swirling around them. Although he was new and had not yet fully plunged into the intricacies of the sect¡¯s deep-seated grievances, he still had a pressing question that needed to be addressed.

    ¡°After hearing so much, I¡¯m left wondering,¡± Yun Xiao began, his voice clear and steady amidst the turmoil. ¡°Isn¡¯t it true that if we have a Top Sword to lead our disciples in the Eight Swords Conve, the Sword Pavilion doesn¡¯t need to disband?¡±

    "Right...!" A collective sigh, heavy with the weight of sorrow and disappointment, swept through the gathered crowd as they nodded. The once vibrant ce, teeming with talented individuals, was now left barren, a shell of its former glory, drained and deserted after that cataclysmic event that left no one standing. A bleak realization settled amongst them, a dream shattered, leaving nothing but fragments of a once mighty legacy.

    "What does it take to be the Top Sword?" Yun Xiao asked earnestly.

    "Usually, you need to have reached the Divine Sea Realm, and be under twenty-one years of age! But ording to the rules, reaching the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm is enough!" Grandpa Qin gritted his teeth as he ryed the requirements.

    Yun Xiao let out a subtle sigh of relief upon hearing this. After an intense half-day standoff, it seemed the solution might be within reach. Taking a step back, he pointed to himself with a grin, stating, "Well, in that case, I''m up for the task!"

    "You? Do what?" Grandpa Qin froze, his eyes bulging in disbelief.

    "I''ll volunteer to be Top Sword. I''m at the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm," Yun Xiao said with a yful gleam in his eye. He had just joined the Sword Pavilion and finally found his ce. He wasn''t about to let all his efforts go to waste with the dissolution of the ce.

    The promation hung in the air, leaving the elders and disciples of the Sword Pavilion gazing at Yun Xiao,pletely baffled.

    "Damn! How did I overlook this!" Cai Maomao smacked his head, tears of excitement threatening to escape. He stood beside Yun Xiao, pointing at him emphatically, "I vouch for him, everyone! He''s more than capable!"

    In the heat of the moment, Yun Xiao had slipped his mind. This young man who had managed to y Wang Feng with just three strikes, and then kill Elder Yao¡ªhow could he not qualify as Top Sword?

    "Yun Xiao, you''ve really reached the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm?" Grandpa Qin finally recollected, his memory stirred.

    In reality, Yun Xiao was at the Late Dragon Spring Realm. But no one could gauge the extent of his powers. After all, strength in battle was the true yardstick. A flicker of new hope ignited in the eyes of the Sword Pavilion members. But it was swiftly extinguished by the uproariousughter from Elder Wu Yu across the way.

    "He is in the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm?" Wu Yu could barely contain hisughter.

    "What''s so funny, Elder Wu?" Wu Jianyang joined in, shrugging his shoulders with a mischievous smile.

    "I mentioned to you yesterday, a greenhorn snagged the top spot in the Heavenly Path from the unparalleled prodigy of the First Sword Peak and got sent to the Sword Pavilion... well, that would be our young genius right here," Elder Wu continued, hisughter hardly suppressed.

    "Ha!" Wu Jianyang couldn''t help but burst intoughter, "Birds of a feather!"

    It seemed utterly ridiculous to them that someone who had just climbed the Heavenly Path yesterday could have advanced to the Mid stage of the Dragon Spring Realm today, let alone the Establishment stage.

    Hearing this, the Third Sword Venerable couldn''t be bothered to toy with them anymore. His demeanor turned frosty as he waved dismissively, "Enough with this futile struggle. I''ve ryed the message from the First Sword Venerable. The choice is yours to make. But heed this advice. Thews of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect were established by our ancestors. Don''t presume I''m merely paying lip service. The consensus was reached yesterday when all seven Sword Venerables gathered. If you can''t participate in the Eight Swords Conve, the Sword Pavilion will be disbanded immediately!"

    "Are you deaf?" Grandpa Qin gripped Yun Xiao''s arm fiercely, "The Sword Pavilion has a disciple willing to take up the mantle of Top Sword!"

    "Are you serious?" The Third Sword Venerable''s voice oozed menace.

    "Deadly serious!"

    "Very well!" The Third Sword Venerable sneered, "The Eight Swords Assembly was specifically established to oversee the Eight Swords Conve. As its vice-chairman, I have the authority to test the capabilities of the Sword Pavilion''s prospective Top Sword. My son, Wu Jianyang, a member of the assembly, is conveniently at the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm as well!"

    Yun Xiao looked directly at the Third Sword Venerable for the first time, his gaze unyielding. ¡°Are you saying that if I defeat him, I can lead my fellow disciples, representing the Sword Pavilion, to participate in the Eight Swords Conve?¡± he asked, a steel thread of determination in his voice.

    "Defeat?" The Third Sword Venerable barely held back augh that threatened to burst from him. This was his son, after all, painstakingly raised and groomed, possessing a Comet grade Sword Soul. The very idea of him being defeated seemedughable. Although he managed to keep a straight face, those standing behind him including Wu Yu and Wu Jianyang, along with other members of the Eight Sword Assembly, failed to contain their amusement.

    Yun Xiao remained undeterred. ¡°Venerable, a simple yes or no will suffice,¡± he stated, his tone verging on impertinence.

    The Third Sword Venerable froze, stunned by the audacity of this Sword Pavilion disciple. Did this youngster realize who he was talking to? He was the Third Sword Venerable!

    "Father, Elder Wu already mentioned, he''s a rare species in the Azure Spirit, a <i>blockhead</i>. You''re generous and forgiving, please bear with him and don''t lose your temper," Wu Jianyang said, barely able to conceal his snickers.

    "Preposterous!" the Third Sword Venerable eximed, shaking his head vehemently. His gaze shifted to Elder Wu, seeking confirmation.

    Wu Yu, patting his chest confidently, dered, "He''s at most the Late Dragon Spring Realm. If he can withstand a single strike from Wu Jianyang, I''ll offer my head to the Venerable as a chamber pot."

    With a solemn nod, the Third Sword Venerable turned back to Yun Xiao. "You don''t have to defeat my son. Just hold your ground against one of his strikes, and the Sword Pavilion will be spared dissolution."

    "Thank you, Venerable," Yun Xiao said before leaping to an open space nearby. He turned his piercing gaze towards Wu Jianyang.

    ¡°Heh heh..." Wu Jianyang continued to shake his head, hisughter ringing out, mocking and superior.

    Both individuals assumed their positions, the ground between them a silent witness to the impending confrontation.

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun...¡± Qin Tong and the others were visibly anxious, their palms sweaty and hearts pounding in their chests.

    "It''s fine, really! Trust in Junior Brother Yun!" Cai Maomao seized the opportunity to grasp Qin Tong''s hand tighter.

    Overwhelmed by the tension of the moment, Qin Tong didn''t resist. Feeling the softness of her hand, Cai Maomao''s tears flowed freely as he murmured silently, ¡°Junior Brother Yun, if you win today, your senior brother will treat you to a grand roast chicken dinner tonight!¡±

    On the open ground, a cold, fierce light flickered in Yun Xiao''s eyes. "Senior Brother Wu, shall we begin?" he asked, his voice slicing through the tense silence.

    ¡°Shush!¡± Wu Jianyang raised a finger to his lips, his derisiveugh echoing eerily in the open space. ¡°You think you have the right to call me senior brother?¡± Before his words could fully dissipate, a whooshing sound filled the air. A white figure burst forward, charging towards him like a bullet.

    <i>HUM! </i>The figure''s hand swiftly brandished a vibrant azure Sword Soul that erupted with an uncontrolled, chaotic energy, creating a cascade of densely packed sword rays that pierced through the air with a shrieking howl, akin to a fierce storm announcing its presence.

    "Hmm?" Wu Jianyang''s brows furrowed, a hint of seriousness seeping into his previously mocking demeanor. He retaliated by drawing a fiery red Sword Soul from his own reserves, sending it shing towards the advancing figure.

    <i>CLASH!</i> In a blink, azure and crimson swords shed, sparking a fierce eruption of fiery embers. At the moment when the Sword Souls intertwined, the once sneering visage of Wu Jianyang twisted in horror. For in that ferocious exchange of des, his Comet grade Sword Soul emitted a crisp cracking sound, revealing a ghastly azure crevice that looked somewhat like a vein of blood. When the sword soul cracked, the soul trembled.

    "Nineyer Sword Aura!" Wu Jianyang shrieked, his voice mingled with agony and disbelief. Despite having a slight edge in magical power, his Sword Soul seemed as fragile as a wooden de against an iron sword, being flung away by Yun Xiao''s fierce strike.

    A shock of pain erupted from the tiger''s mouth of Wu Jianyang, his facade of superiority shattered in an instant. Swift as a tempest, Yun Xiao spun around, his sword sweeping across Wu Jianyang''s face in a fierce arc.

    A gruesome sh! As Wu Jianyang cried out, his mouth was cleaved open, doubling in size and transforming into a grotesque, gaping maw. Splinters of teeth and pieces of his tongue flew about chaotically, evidence of the horrific injury inflicted.

    <i>BOOM! </i>With a final, powerful kick, Yun Xiao targeted the space between Wu Jianyang''s legs. A thunderous explosion echoed! <i>Crack! </i>The area became grotesquely deformed, and Wu Jianyang''s face bloated to a horrific purple hue.

    "Ugh-wah!" Wu Jianyang managed, spewing a mouthful of dark blood before being sent flying, ultimately crashing and dangling from a pine tree.

    Facing the pitiful sight, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle beneath the tree. His voice resonated with a biting humor as he dered, "Wu Jianyang, you can''t even block a casual strike from me. Truly, the term senior brother is wasted on a pathetic waste like you."

    Wu Jianyang seemed on the brink of copse, his eyes nearly popping out of their sockets, his body engorged and veins bulging angrily. Despite his furious ils, he could only emit choked, soundless cries.

    Yun Xiao had widened his arrogant mouth, literally, making it easier for him to spout his nonsense everywhere.

    "No need to thank me. I''m just a good guy doing a favor," Yun Xiao taunted, before returning to the midst of the Sword Pavilion members. Facing the elders, he remarked in a casual yet undeniably heroic tone, "A fair duel, won through sheer skill. No issues, right?"

    The members of Sword Pavilion stood frozen, their faces a canvas of shock and exhration. After a prolonged moment of silence, a wave of euphoria swept over them.

    "No! Issues! At! All!" Laughter broke out, a sound filled with mirth and a touch of madness.

    It had been three years. Three long years since they felt this exhrated, especially in the face of those despised individuals.

    "Wu Jianyang, how does it feel to be a castrated chicken now?" Cai Maomao couldn''t contain himself, hugging Yun Xiao tightly, hisughter ringing loud and joyous. If it weren''t for the crowd, he would have nted a big, resounding kiss on Yun Xiao''s face without a second thought.

    Today, the dark clouds that had lingered for so long were finally dispersed, reced by clear, jubnt skies. As they all turned to look at the Third Sword Venerable, they saw the bulky figure standing there, his eyes just now turning a frightening shade of red, as if he was just catching up to the shocking turn of events. The arena was charged with an electrifying tension, a prelude to the storm that was yet toe.

    In the adjacent area, Elder Wu Yu stood as if struck dumb, a visage ofplete disbelief. "No, no, no, no..." The phrase, echoed four times as if one denial couldn''t contain his dismay, almost catapulted tears from his eyes. In this moment, his basic reaction was to add fuel to the already raging inferno.

    "How dare you, Yun Xiao!" Elder Wu Yu thundered, the veins in his neck bulging with the force of his anger. "Using this test as a pretext, you''ve brutally attacked the Third Sword Venerable''s son. You havemitted a capital offense!"

    The roar barely left his lips when suddenly, a streak of darkness zoomed in from nowhere in particr, an ominous omen in the form of a ck flying sword. Before anyone could make sense of the surreal scenario, it stood menacingly before Wu Yu, as if announcing the arrival of the grim reaper.

    "No!" Elder Wu Yu screamed, the sound a symphony of dread and despair. A heart-wrenching squelch resonated as the dark de found its home, not impaling, but gruesomely decapitating him. With a grotesque artistry, it managed to uproot his head right from the shoulders, leaving a gory spectacle in its wake.

    <i>THUD THUD! </i>Blood shot out in gory jets, painting the ground a vivid shade of crimson horror.

    <i>CRASH! </i>The macabre sword, with its gruesome trophy impaled, pinned itself to the que bearing the inscription <i>Evesting Noble Spirit</i>, exactly on the spot where Elder Wu Yu had spat out a gob of phlegm just moments before. The ck blood dripped ominously, creating a macabre waterfall that cascaded down the que.

    Elder Wu Yu''s eyes, now devoid of life, stared out, refusing to close even in death, as if using the world of his brutal end.

    An eerie silence enveloped the gathering, a hushed witness to the violent spectacle.

    "Uh," Cai Maomao broke the stunned silence. In a heartbeat, he stood at attention, then turned to Yun Xiao and said in a conspiratorial whisper, "Stand up straight; Senior Sister Zhao ising..."

 Chapter 018 - Return of a Heros Spirit (1)

    <h4>Chapter 018 - Return of a Hero''s Spirit (1)</h4>

    The atmosphere in the Sword Pavilion was charged with an electric fury. The Third Sword Venerable''s eyes were fierce and brimming with rage, a rage that seemed to channel the power of an expansive ocean. This immense force erupted from him, causing the people in the vicinity to stumble backward, their faces a pale shade of terror.

    The situation was akin to receiving two fierce ps to the face, one from the left and another from the right. His son, disgraced. His elder, murdered. The tempest of his anger turned into a turbulent whirlpool, seeking retribution. He whirled around, the vitriol clear in his eyes.

    Standing amidst the swirling gusts was a woman dressed in a ck gown, her head lowered. Her delicate and elegant fingers were holding a ck Sword Soul, which she was cleaning with a ck silk scarf, removing the blood that stained its surface. Her posture was resolute, an ind of calm in the raging storm, seemingly oblivious to the Third Sword Venerable''s furious gaze as she moved past him, her sights set on the gathering crowd at the Sword Pavilion. Her towering and slender figure was entuated by a long ink-ck dress, her hair flowed like a waterfall of darkness, and her ears were adorned with a pair of sword-shaped earrings. A vision of grace and fiercenessbined.

    Yun Xiao could only afford to nce at her briefly, the intoxicating memories of the previous night flooding back¡ªa dusky evening, an enchantingdy amidst the glow of whitenterns, and the silhouette of a graceful figure under the moonlit tree. Trouble was brewing, that was clear. He felt a wave of darkness engulf his vision. Despite his anticipation of her arrival, seeing her stand before him made his scalp prickle with unease. Every bone in his body seemed to be knotted, a tangled mess of nerves and fear. No position feltfortable, and his heart raced erratically.

    Fortunately, it seemed she hadn''t spared him even a fleeting nce from the corner of her eye. Turning her attention to the sign of the grand hall, her voice rang out, icy as the frost that seemed to form in her eyes, "Cai Maomao."

    Cai Maomao hastened forward, dropping to one knee in deference, "I am here at yourmand, Senior Sister Zhao!"

    "Clean this beast''s blood from the de."

    "...Yes!" Cai Maomao nodded, his face a mask of determination.

    But the Third Sword Venerable was having none of it. Ignored and dismissed, his anger festered and bloomed, smoke practically billowing from his eyes. His voice thundered, the words squeezed out between gritted teeth, "My son may have lost fair and square, I can ept that. But you, a mere disciple, have taken thew into your own hands and killed an elder of the Third Sword Peak without any justification, viting the sacredws of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect!"

    His voice echoed with a booming resonance, shaking the tiles on the roofs, causing the stone pirs to tremble and dust to scatter. The members of the Sword Assembly rallied behind him, their eyes icy as they fixed their gaze upon the woman in the ck gown.

    She furrowed her brows slightly, a hint of irritation seeping through, "Really now, since when is killing a dog considered a crime?"

    The Third Sword Venerable''s beard quivered wildly, his face a canvas of rage, "You dare to argue back? I will report this to the Sword Venerable Hall, and you shall be dealt with collectively!"

    "Fine, bring it on," she replied, her icy eyes flickering with contempt. "Though my father''s Sword Soul is fractured, it still possesses the power to kill. So, between you and Ye Tiance, who wants to die first?"

    "You!" The Third Sword Venerable choked on his fury, his pointed finger shaking violently as he directed it towards her, his gaze darting beyond her to focus on the grand hall that loomed behind her figure.

    Deep within the hall, an ominous shadow loomed, making the Third Sword Venerable break into a sudden sweat on his forehead.

    "Good, very good indeed!" the Third Sword Venerable bellowed, his gaze briefly shifting towards his wailing son, his whole being seemed to simmer with suppressed rage. A fiery volcano ready to erupt, yet forced to hold back.

    "Zhao Xuanran..." the Third Sword Venerable began, his voice morphing suddenly into a sinister chuckle. "Yes, you have the protection of someone at death''s doorstep, but the other disciples of the Sword Pavilion, they are not so fortunate."

    "nning to y dirty, are you?" Grandpa Qin retorted with fiery eyes.

    "y dirty? Does our Third Sword Peak need to resort to such tactics?" The Third Sword Venerable shrugged mockingly, a sardonic smile painting his face. "Just wait, during the Eight Swords Conve where life and death are not restrained, your Sword Pavilion disciples had a chance of survival in the past years, all thanks to our generous hearts. But now..."

    He paused, letting the dark insinuation hang heavy in the air like a thundercloud ready to storm. "Think about it, what will be of the main branch of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect without any disciples? Even if it doesn''t disband this year, what about the next?"

    The message was clear. A vendetta had been dered. He wanted the disciples of the Sword Pavilion dead. Dead in the most tant and righteous manner possible. Dead in two days.

    "The tide has turned, still clinging desperately to a lost cause, are you? Haha, let''s go!" With a wave of his hand, the members of the Eight Sword Assembly obediently followed, leaving with a corpse and a person reduced to a state worse than death. Though their departure was filled with arrogant swagger, it bore a sting of disgrace.

    Especially with what happened to Wu Jianyang. Seeing his son with a bloodied mouth and a fate worse than castration, the Third Sword Venerable had a mind to annihte Yun Xiao right there. As he turned to leave, the voice of the woman in the ck skirt echoed from behind him.

    "Yun Xiao,e with me." Zhao Xuanran turned, her piercing cold eyes fixing on the young man in white in the corner.

    Yun Xiao subtly lowered his gaze, which unintentionally settled somewhere below her waist. <i>Ah. </i>That seemed rather impolite. So, he shifted his gaze slightly upward. Which turned out to be even more inappropriate... "Senior Sister Zhao, where are we going?" he asked, inhaling deeply to steady his racing heart.

    "To ept a master," the woman in the ck gown replied, walking past him, a familiar fragrance wafting in her wake, carrying notes ofst night''s wine.

    "To ept a master?" At these words, the Third Sword Venerable halted in his tracks, his body whipping around to lock a fierce gaze onto the woman in ck, his voice filled with incredulity. "Have you lost your mind?"

    "I am epting a disciple on behalf of my father, what''s it to you?" Zhao Xuanran replied, her voice echoing with an assertive ring.

    "Your father is the head of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect! The Sect Master''s eptance of a disciple is not to be taken lightly!" he retorted, his voice deep and resonant.

    "Hmph." Zhao Xuanran looked towards the depths of the Grand Hall, her eyes trembling slightly as she said, "Father, today Yun Xiao stands here, ready to shoulder the responsibilities of the sword''s tip, seeking a path of survival for the Sword Pavilion. If you wish to take him as a disciple, please ring the Grand Bell!"

    As her words faded, a streak of azure light burst forth from within the hall, striking arge azure bell positioned at the front of the hall. With a mighty ng, the Grand Bell reverberated throughout the surroundings, piercing the tranquil morning air with an announcement of solemnity.

    ¡°You may take your leave now,¡± Zhao Xuanran said, addressing the Third Sword Venerable with undisguised contempt.

    ¡°The Ninth Son of the Sword Pavilion? Haha, would he be the shortest-lived among them then, surviving only two or maybe three days?¡± The Third Sword Venerable strained a smile, forcing down the anger that surged within him and opted for a mocking tone instead. However, his taunts fell on deaf ears. No one in the Sword Pavilion spared him any attention.

    Without another word, Zhao Xuanran turned and stepped into the hall. Behind her, Cai Maomao nudged Yun Xiao, who seemed momentarily lost in thoughts. ¡°What are you standing there for, an invitation? Get moving!¡± he urged, pushing him gently.

    Coming back to his senses, Yun Xiao moved forward, stepping into the hall that held an imposing figure within its confines.

    Upon entering, Yun Xiao raised his head, his eyes solemn as they met those of the individual seated before him. The figure was a middle-aged man garbed in azure robes, an embodiment of grace and celestial allure. His slender build and handsome face were entuated by his bound ck hair and eyes that sparkled like the stars. A long beard adorned his chin, granting him an air of a true Immortal, one that had transcended the mortal realm.

    Seated serenely on a cushion, the man seemed to be caught in a peculiar state. Yun Xiao could feel a fragile and feeble energy emanating from him, a stark contrast to the formidable presence he once held. His eyes were open, but the pupils were horrifyingly split, betraying a grimace of pain that seemed almost too palpable, a terrible mixture of slumber and agony.

    ¡°Is he the Sect Master of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, the father of Senior Sister Zhao, and also the head of the Sword Pavilion?¡± Yun Xiao mused, recalling the widespread fame that preceded this person, a true Sword Immortal whose reputation had echoed far and wide even in the Cloud Nation. Yet, how had hee to embody this living death?

    ¡°Has his Sword Soul shattered?¡± Yun Xiao wondered, a terrifying realization for any Sword Cultivator. When the Sword Soul broke, the soul shattered as well, bringing an end to the person''s cultivation journey. This seemed to be the tragic fate that had befallen this renowned figure, leaving him in a state of living death.

    As Yun Xiao pondered, a soft yet indifferent voice rang beside his ear, breaking his train of thought. ¡°A Sword Cultivator need not kneel to the living. A mere acknowledgment suffices. You may leave now.¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡± Yun Xiao responded, turning to leave.

    But after a mere two steps, he halted, unable to carry himself away without expressing the torrent of emotions that surged within him. Turning back, he addressed the seemingly lifeless figure with a firm vow, ¡°I am Yun Xiao, and in this lifetime, I vow to uphold the honor of the Sword Pavilion.¡±

    The azure-robed man remained silent, his beard fluttering slightly, a silent witness to Yun Xiao¡¯s solemn vow.

    The woman in the ck gown watched him, her gaze intense and piercing. ¡°Why take such a vow?¡± she inquired, her voice echoing in the silent hall.

    Yun Xiao nodded, his resolve unyielding as he exined, ¡°For sixteen years I wandered in search of the path of immortality, yet found no mentor to guide me. Today... I have finally found my ce.¡± His voice echoed with sincerity and an unmistakable hint of newfound purpose, ringing through the hall with the weight of an unbreakable promise.

    Under the shadow of twilight, the woman in the ck gown broke her silence and said in a voice that hinted at the frosty evening air, "During the Eight Swords Conve, our Sword Pavilion will have you included, making eight disciples altogether. Meanwhile, the other seven Sword Peaks will each deploy a hundred and twenty individuals, many of whom have already reached the Divine Sea Realm. You disabled Wu Jianyang and offended Jiang Yue. So, you might find the journey perilous, even with the title of the Sect Leader''s Disciple.¡±

    Unruffled, Yun Xiao responded, ¡°If death is my fate, I hope you will recover my remains, Senior Sister Zhao.¡±

    ¡°No regrets?¡± she pressed, her voice echoing in the quiet evening air.

    ¡°A gentleman¡¯s word is his bond,¡± Yun Xiao proimed, his gaze meeting hers for the first time, a spark of fierce determination lighting up his eyes.

    Zhao Xuanran regarded him quietly, her eyes zed with a frosty sheen that barely concealed the fiery resolve beneath. After a long, silent standoff, she turned and departed, disappearing amidst the forest shadows like a brisk, cold breeze.

    Meanwhile, Blue Star poked its head out from Yun Xiao''s embrace and curiously queried, ¡°Why didn''t you guys pair up again?¡±

    ¡°... Shut up!¡± An exasperated Yun Xiao retorted, hastily stuffing the little ck creature back into his robe.

    From outside, Cai Maomao''s ecstatic voice could be heard, ¡°Junior Brother Yun is remarkable! A disciple of the Sect Leader, no less!¡±

    Rushing over, Qin Tong interjected, ¡°Cai Maomao, prepare the hotpot for tonight.¡±

    ¡°Deal,e to my ce! I guarantee to fill your bellies till they burst!¡± The atmosphere turned jovial, theirughter echoing through the mountainousndscape.

    The night promised to be sleepless, with questions swirling in Yun Xiao''s mind like a relentless storm. As darkness draped the sky, the young Sword Cultivators of the Sword Pavilion congregated at Cai Maomao''s lonely peak. The scene was alive with flickering candlelight, robust liquor, a sizzling hotpot, and a group of spirited young Cultivators, their youthful faces illuminated by the roaring mes.

    Before they began their feast, the youngdy Zhou Zi hesitated, ¡°Should I invite Senior Sister Zhao?¡±

    With a nervous nce, Cai Maomao turned to Yun Xiao, ¡°What do you think?¡± It was clear he feared the senior sister''s reprimand.

    ¡°I¡¯ll stay out of it,¡± Yun Xiao casually remarked, stirring a ripple of awkwardughter among the group.

    After a thoughtful pause, Qin Tong suggested, ¡°Senior Sister Zhao has always led the team as the Top Sword. Why not invite her to impart some wisdom to Junior Brother Yun?¡±

    Luo Jiang nodded in agreement, ¡°Sounds good to me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll go ask her then.¡± Standing up, Zhou Zi summoned her sword and zoomed off, disappearing into the forest in a blink.

    Not long after, she returned with a pout, ¡°Senior Sister Zhao declined.¡±

    The group exchanged puzzled nces. Given the gravity of the Eight Swords Conve¡ªa gateway to a battlefield where life and death danced in a delicate bnce¡ªit seemed only fitting that she bid them farewell and good luck. Yet, she chose to remain absent, an enigma in the chilly night. Why hadn''t shee?

    "Ever since the incident three years ago, Senior Sister Zhao has not been fond of lively gatherings..." Qin Tong let out a soft sigh, a gentle wind carrying away the mncholy that threaded her voice.

    "No worries!" Cai Maomao boasted, puffing out his chest. "I''ve also participated in the Eight Swords Conve twice. I can definitely lead the way for Junior Brother Yun!"

    Qin Tong cast him a disparaging nce, retorting, "You surrendered as soon as you stepped onto the dueling tform. What are you going to lead, a flock of chickens?"

    Cai Maomao could only respond with a sheepish grin, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. But soon, his jovial nature bubbled back up, "Enough of this banter. Let''s drown this bowl of wine, and then taste the exquisite culinary skills of yours truly! In this vast world, nothing beats a hotpot!"

    Beforeing to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Yun Xiao could never have imagined that Cultivators, people who tread on the path of bing Immortals, indulged in such worldly pleasures as hotpot and coarse wine.

    "The path of immortality is quite the bustling marketce, isn''t it?" Yun Xiao mused aloud. Where were the lofty mountains and flowing rivers, the soaring through the skies with a sword underfoot he had envisioned?

    This journey to immortality was indeed a journey undertaken bymon folk, a journey intertwined with hatred, resentment, and vengeance, but also filled with valor, passion, camaraderie, and the warmest of bonds.

    "This journey... it''s like the spicy red oil that floats up to the top of the hotpot," Yun Xiao philosophized, his eyes gleaming in the firelight, "It not only scalds the tongue but also the heart."

    "To deep connections!" someone shouted, lifting their bowl high.

    "To bonds that run deeper than a bottomless bowl of wine!" another echoed.

    Eight bowls clinked together, a sound as melodious as bells chiming in harmony. The wine sshed onto the fiery stove, creating a roar of mes that danced vigorously, mirroring the fervor in their young hearts.

    Everyone tilted their heads back, letting the burning liquid slide down their throats. The moment was pierced by a sudden scream that ripped through the night.

    "Where''s my hotpot?" Cai Maomao was at a loss, his eyes widened in disbelief. The hot pot was gone.

    ".....!" Yun Xiao patted his chest only to realize that the little ck creature was also missing.

    Eight pairs of chopsticks hung motionless in the air.

 Chapter 019 - Return of a Heros Spirit (2)

    <h4>Chapter 019 - Return of a Hero''s Spirit (2)</h4>

    Deep into the night, eight young Sword Cultivators sat side by side on a cliff of a solitary peak, letting the cool night breeze caress their faces. The night was graced by a shy moon and sparse stars, while crows flew south in the distance. Before them, the mountains and rivers bore the ink-like darkness, and thousands of trees seemed like specters in the gloom.

    Yun Xiao sat at a corner, his eyes tranquil yet deep as an ocean. His side profile, illuminated by the moonlight, depicted a celestial being gracing the earthly realm, with features carved from the finest jade and eyes reflecting the vast cosmic sea.

    "It''s a good thing that Junior Brother Yun became a disciple under the Sect Master''s wing," Qin Tong said, her gaze lingering on Yun Xiao.

    "What use is this status?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It grants you a position higher than the disciples of Sword Venerables and even the elders. They must show you respect in public gatherings," Qin Tong exined.

    "What aboutpared to a Sword Venerable or a Swordking?" Yun Xiao probed further, the moonlight casting a gentle glow on his face.

    "Of course, it''s a little lower," Qin Tong replied.

    Yun Xiao grasped the gravity of his new position. His elevation within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect was nothing short of meteoric. Within a day of arriving, he had be the most esteemed disciple in the sect. Without the acimed title of Swordking, Ye Guying would find himself surpassed by Yun Xiao''s current stature. Jiang Yue, a student of the Sword Venerable, couldn''t hold a candle to him now.

    "So, the disciples of the Sect Master are the main disciples of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. How many are there now?" Yun Xiao asked, a hint of curiosity in his tone.

    A slight hesitation weighed on Qin Tong''s features as she bit her lower lip softly before answering, "Nine in total." Her voice carried a mix of reverence and sorrow, like an ode to the fallen heroes.

    Cai Maomao chimed in, albeit a little slurred from intoxication, "Only you and Senior Sister Zhao are still alive..." He leaned heavily onto Qin Tong''s shoulder, his demeanor a stark contrast to the solemnity of the conversation.

    These cherished individuals, known collectively as the Sword Pavilion Seven, held the prestigious rank of the Sect Master''s disciples.

    Qin Tong tried to maintain her serious fa?ade, addressing Yun Xiao formally, "As a disciple of the Sect Master, only the Sect Master has the authority to punish you, should you transgress."

    Yun Xiao nodded knowingly, an almost cheeky grin spreading on his face, "So, no punishment then."

    Everyone knew the Sect Master was in a deep slumber, a stasis that left the sect without its guiding force.

    "Exactly. As long as you don''t meet your end in a life-or-death duel you''re virtually untouchable," Qin Tong affirmed, her tone carrying an unspoken weight of expectation and belief.

    The conversation turned somber as they discussed the viciouspetitiveness and internal strife within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Yun Xiao listened attentively, piecing together theplex dynamics of the ce he now called home. With a quizzical furrow of his brows, he voiced his confusion, "Isn''t Azure Spirit one unified sect? Why is the internalpetition so fierce?"

    Qin Tong shook her head, sadness tinting her normally bright eyes. She recounted the turbulent history of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, a ce that wasn''t always unified but born from the fiercepetition of eight rival factions of Sword Cultivators. When a surge of spiritual energy transformed their forest into a haven, a brutal fight for control ensued, staining thend with blood and vengeance. Unable to dominate individually, they united, forming a precarious alliance governed by the Laws of Azure Spirit. This uneasy coalition still bore the scars of its violent birth, fostering both unity and enmity between different factions.

    Yun Xiao absorbed this narrative, understanding now why the Third Sword Venerable was so intent on dismantling the Sword Pavilion, a faction holding the most covetednd within the sect. The night around them seemed to darken, mirroring theplex and sometimes brutal history of their sect. A newfound understanding settled within him, a blend of sadness and determination to navigate the turbulent waters thaty ahead. No wonder the Seventh Sword Peak didn''t dare to take him in. Crossing Jiang Yue and the First Sword Peak meant a lot of people would end up dead. This wasn''t child''s y!

    But Yun Xiao had another nagging question. "What happened to my master?" he asked, turning his gaze to the group of seven young Sword Cultivators standing before him. The moment the question hung in the chilling night air, the gentle autumn breeze seemingly turned bitter and colder.

    "Do you know, Junior Brother Yun, that to the south of the Azure Spirit Mountains lies the realm of the thousand mortal nations?" Qin Tong inquired, her voice echoing in the cold air.

    "I do!" Yun Xiao affirmed, as he himself hailed from the southern regions.

    "And what about the north?"

    "The Northern Wastnds!" Yun Xiao replied without a second thought.

    "What exists in the Northern Wastnds?"

    "Endless vicious demons," Yun Xiao solemnly stated.

    "Our very first duty as members of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect is to forge a Great Wall with our flesh and blood, to obliterate the southward-advancing demons, safeguarding the peace and security of themon folks!" Qin Tong proimed, her fervent passion ignited, a fiery light flickering in her eyes.

    "I know!" This was Yun Xiao''s initial impression of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. The guardian Sword Immortals of the north!

    "This has also been the long-standing creed of our Sword Pavilion," Qin Tong added, gritting her teeth.

    "And then?"

    "Someone abandoned our mission!" A boundless anger emerged in Qin Tong''s eyes.

    The others were also filled with a simmering rage, fanned into furious mes.

    "What happened?"

    "Three years ago, during an expedition to the north to exterminate demons led by the First Sword Peak, someone escaped back to the Azure Spirit. They reported that Ye Guying along with other genius Sword Cultivators¡ªa total of over thirty people¡ªwere trapped by a group of demons at the Dark Abyss Mountain in the Northern Wastnds. The First Sword Venerable wept and pleaded with the Sect Master and the Sword Pavilion Seven to rescue them urgently!"

    "So, they went..." Yun Xiao muttered. The name Ye Guying echoed in the air once again. A blistering crimson fire surged within him, scalding and relentless.

    "Yes, they went!"

    "But after arriving at the Dark Abyss Mountain, there was no sign of Ye Guying, let alone any of the other genius Sword Cultivators. Only an army of thirty thousand demons awaited them, having set a trap to ensnare them!" As Qin Tong spoke, veins bulged angrily on her graceful neck.

    "Only eight of them ventured into the sea of demons, fighting fiercely for a day and a night. The Sword Pavilion Seven exhausted their strengths until they could no more. Only the Sect Master survived, bearing a shattered sword, but also..." Tears burst forth like a breached dam as she reached this part of the tale. "The eldest brother of the seven Qin Qingcheng, was my father!"

    The mere recollection of that man brought immense pain that surged like a torrent in Qin Tong''s heart.

    "The seven of them were the strongest generation in the history of the Sword Pavilion, ying the highest number of demons. During their time in Azure Spirit, the Sword Pavilion reigned supreme year after year, overshadowing even Ye Guying. Each one of them possessed Upper Comet grade Sword Souls, capable of holding their own ground even against a Sword Venerable!

    "The Sword Pavilion Seven were legendary figures, a mythical era in the Azure Spirit!

    "In that battle, despite their deaths, they left twenty thousand demon corpses on the Dark Abyss Mountain...

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun!¡± Tears clouded Qin Tong''s eyes as she looked at him, a myriad of emotions swirling within her. ¡°Do you think they were fools? How could they have fallen into such a trap?¡±

    Yun Xiao remained silent, the weight of the moment bearing heavily on him, before slowly shaking his head. In his time at the capital of Cloud Nation, he had witnessed the cruelty of serpent demons tormenting the people. Back then, he couldn''t have fathomed that the noble Sword Cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect would stoop to such disgraceful depths.

    Qin Tong, with tear-streaked face, pressed on, her voice brimming with a fiery mix of sadness and anger. ¡°For centuries, despite the infighting within Azure Spirit, we never once strayed from our sacred duty of ying demons and vanquishing evil. Everyone knew that if the Azure Spirit Sword Sect crumbled, a horde of demons would swarm the south, enving or ughtering us all. Throughout our history, no one has evermitted acts so disgraceful, so vile!

    ¡°And yet Ye Tiance, the Sword Venerable of the First Sword Peak, and Ye Guying, they did just that!¡± Qin Tong cried. Had they danced with the demons without fearing their retribution? This was a question only they could answer. Why did the serpent demons of the Cloud Nation listen to Ye Guying¡¯smands?

    ¡°What was their ultimate exnation?¡± Yun Xiao asked, biting his lip, the taste of anger and injustice mingling on his tongue.

    ¡°They simply named a small hill <i>Dark Abyss Mountain</i> and imed that the Sect Master had simply misunderstood, tragically leading them to the wrong location,¡± Qin Tong said, her voice trembling between sobs andughter at the absurdity of the lie.

    Yun Xiao found himself disillusioned. He had thought the world wasplex, but stepping onto the path of cultivation had opened his eyes to new depths of shamelessness.

    ¡°For centuries, despite the internal struggles, the Sword Pavilion and the Seven Sword Peaks followed a fundamental rule. In the face of demonic threats, we must stand united!¡± Qin Tong dered, her voice ringing with the force of her conviction. ¡°Ye Tiance became the first despicable being to break our ancestral teachings, and one day, he will pay the price!¡±

    Overwhelmed by grief and anger, Cai Maomao sobered up. He clutched Yun Xiao¡¯s hand, weeping openly. ¡°Junior Brother Yun, their bodies may have perished, but their souls were absorbed into the Bluedrop g by the demonic forces of the Northern Wastnds. They cannot find peace, even in death!

    ¡°The g still stands on Dark Abyss Mountain, a tool for the Northern Demon Emperor to torment their souls, a symbol of our sect''s disgrace!

    ¡°For three years, I¡¯ve harbored this hatred, furious at my own powerlessness. I despise my inability to annihte those beasts at the First Sword Peak, to ascend Dark Abyss Mountain and eradicate the demons, to bring my brothers home. Oh, how I hate...¡± Cai Maomao gritted his teeth. The agony of hatred and the bitterness of alcohol churned like a tumultuous sea within him.

    The bravery of the Sword Pavilion Seven was legendary. But now, even in death, they couldn''t find peace. Yun Xiao, who had faced death once, knew the anguish of a soul in torment. For three years, the seven were trapped in the Bluedrop g on Dark Abyss Mountain. He could imagine the suffering. To think that these dignified Sword Cultivators had been reduced to mere toys, their souls ensnared within a g, was a humiliation beyond measure. Where was the honor of the Azure Spirit? It seemed few cared anymore.

    ¡°After that day, Ye Tiance and Ye Guying no longer hid their wolfish ambitions,¡± Qin Tong murmured, the darkness of betrayal etched deeply into her words. Before, they must have yed the part of moral and upright leaders. But now, it was clear that with the fall of the Sword Pavilion''s stalwarts, the First Sword Peak was quick to kick them while they were down, revealing their true, despicable colors. Threats, bribes, bloodsucking!

    And so, the Sword Pavilion was sucked dry. Three years went by and only eight young souls remained, stalwart defenders of this sacred ce.

    ¡°This time, at the Eight Swords Conve, we can perish, but the Sword Pavilion must endure!¡± Cai Maomao dered, rising to his feet with a newfound determination, his gaze fixated towards the north, where death seemed a weingpanion.

    ¡°Why?¡± Yun Xiao asked, his voice a beacon of calm amidst the impending storm.

    ¡°I¡¯m scared!¡± Cai Maomao confessed, an honesty as raw as a fresh wound.

    ¡°Scared of what?¡±

    ¡°Scared that even if my brother¡¯s soul returns, he won''t find his way home.¡± Tears streamed down Cai Maomao''s face, a waterfall of grief and fear cascading unbridled. That''s why the Sword Pavilion needed a Top Sword. Yun Xiao must not die! Their seven pairs of eyes turned in unison towards Yun Xiao, a silent vow echoing in the tense air.

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun, rest easy. The day after tomorrow, at the Eight Swords Conve, even if we have toy down our lives, we will protect you!¡±

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath, absorbing the weight of the burden ced upon him. ¡°You¡¯re thinking too small,¡± he suddenly uttered, words heavy yet untamed.

    ¡°What?¡± Cai Maomao froze, unable to grasp his meaning.

    ¡°To live a life, what is the point of seeking safety?¡± Yun Xiao looked towards the north, his eyes harboring a storm of resolve. ¡°Just wait. The day after tomorrow, your Junior Brother Yun will make you all soar!¡±

 Chapter 020 - Swallow Tail Flash, Azure Lightning Crane, Leisurely Wander! (1)

    <h4>Chapter 020 - Swallow Tail sh, Azure Lightning Crane, Leisurely Wander! (1)</h4>

    Mountains stretched out in a seamless chain, amidst which clouds flowed like a boundless sea, harboring secrets and legends as old as time itself.

    At the heart of this magnificent scenery, the First Sword Peak soared into the heavens, standing tall like a gargantuan sword piercing through the sky, a testament to its unparalleled de''s sharpness.

    With a cacophony akin to a dragon''s roar, over a hundred figures whisked across the sky, cleaving the looming clouds and heading towards a pce nestled amidst the clouds near the First Sword Peak¡ªthe abode of young Sword Cultivators of the revered Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    Their robes fluttered wildly in the wind, their emblems¡ªa swirling, dancing <i>one</i>¡ªstitched with utmost grandeur on their backs, signifying their proud origin from the First Sword Peak. These young individuals, with flowing hair and eyes glittering with an unruly, fierce light, radiated confidence, their smiles both suave and self-assured. They moved gracefully across the sky, evoking awe and admiration from onlookers.

    Beneath their steady feet were Sword Souls, each one extending over six feet in length and at least as wide as a palm, offering stability as they traversed through the skies. A masterful representation of the Sovereign Sword form, a pinnacle of sword cultivation, where the sword and the cultivator merged into one.

    <i>Zing! </i>As they approached a celestial pce amidst the clouds, they effortlessly retracted their Sword Souls, shrinking them to a mere three inches before they returned to their masters'' palms. The young Sword Cultivators descended gracefully, their hands behind their backs, disying a demeanor that could only be described as dashing.

    "Junior Sister Jiang!" A group of leading cultivators, both dignified and handsome, shouted with weing smiles towards the pce amidst the clouds.

    <i>Boom! </i>Before the echoes of their greeting could fade, the pce resonated with a thunderous sound, releasing a surge of overwhelming energy that scattered the surrounding clouds, revealing an awe-inspiring sight that held them all in rapt attention.

    Startled, everyone''s eyes widened in shock.

    "Our little sister has broken through to the Divine Sea Realm!"

    "She surged past five stages in one go!"

    Their faces were painted with thick hues of admiration as they beheld the marvel unfolding before them.

    "Oh, the Divine Sea Realm! There are still a few among us brothers who haven''t reached it yet!" A young man adorned in cloud-patterned robes eximed.

    "It''s truly deserving of the sole Divine Sea Pill avable in the entire Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Such avish initiation gift!" Another young woman in a blue skirt remarked, her eyes twinkling with amazement.

    The Divine Sea Pill, an absolute treasure for cultivators in the Dragon Spring Realm. It expanded the Dragon Spring, allowing one to bypass years, even decades of arduous cultivation, reaching the Divine Sea Realm in a single day.

    Someone sighed deeply, "Only those in the Dragon Spring Realm, who have amassed sufficient spiritual energy, can withstand such a rapid ascent in cultivation stages. Attempting this in the Divine Sea Realm could lead to instability."

    "It''s a top-tier Comet grade pill, after all! What could possibly surpass that?" another chimed in. In the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, whether it was pills, Sword Souls, Sword Techniques or Daoist Spells, anythingbeled top-tier Comet grade was regarded as the epitome of excellence.

    Even the most talented disciples of the First Sword Venerable would find themselves fortunate to possess a low-tier Comet grade pill during their initiation.

    "The strongest sword talent truly deserves this unprecedented grand initiation ceremony," the young man in cloud-patterned robes remarked, a hint of envycing his words.

    "I''m already anticipating the terrifying prowess Junior Sister Jiang will disy at thepetition..." Thedy in the blue skirt chuckled, her smile a blooming flower amidst the celestial scenery.

    At that moment, the pce doors swung open, revealing a young woman dressed in a white sword robe. Her long hair was tied back in a simple yet elegant style, and her demeanor was calm and aloof, akin to the misty clouds that adorned the sky.

    With eyes deep as the ocean, harboring whirlpools of profound thoughts and wisdom, she stepped forward, an aura of unparalleled grandeur emanating from her. A single Divine Sea Pill had given her wings to soar to celestial heights, heralding the advent of a new legend within the ranks of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    "Congrattions on reaching the Divine Sea Realm, Junior Sister Jiang!"

    A crowd of more than a hundred Sword Cultivators spoke in unison, showering Jiang Yue with a regard that suddenly filled her with a sensation of standing tall, surveying all that was beneath her. This was the path of the Immortals she had dreamed of. She had done it once more.

    "Thank you, senior brothers and sisters," Jiang Yue replied, her lips pursed in a slight smile. Though her response was courteous, a newfound aloofness lingered in her demeanor, as if she had ascended to a higher ne of existence.

    A group of seven familiar faces, all premier disciples of the Sword Venerable, gathered around her.

    "Who are they?" Jiang Yue asked, gesturing towards therge group of individuals.

    "They are the strongest disciples, meticulously selected from the First Sword Peak. Including us and you, there are a total of one hundred and twenty Sword Cultivators!" a youth d in a cloud-patterned robe dered, his words tinged with a sense of pride.

    "They are here for the Seven Swords Conve?" Jiang Yue asked, her tone tinged with indifference.

    "Sister Jiang, there has been an official change. The tournament this year is actually the Eight Swords Conve," the cloud-robed youth said with an awkward smile.

    "Eight swords? Is there an Eighth Sword Peak?" Jiang Yue asked, her brows furrowed in confusion.

    "No, but there is a Sword Pavilion," a woman in a blue skirt chimed in, a mocking smile ying at her lips, eyes sparkling with a hint of derision.

    "The Sword Pavilion, what''s its purpose?" Jiang Yue asked, her tone carrying a hint of superiority that had developed over the past few days, fueled by the ttering remarks and reverence she had received even from her senior brothers and sisters.

    "A dying branch of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect," the youth in the cloud robe exined.

    "I see. Is it a ce to nurtureborers, sword ves, and the like?" Jiang Yue ventured, a spark of realization igniting in her mind. In her mortal days, her enthusiasm for the path of cultivation hadn''t matched Yun Xiao''s, leaving her with limited knowledge about the intricacies of the Azure Spirit lineage.

    "Pretty much," the group of disciples responded, theirughter echoing harmoniously.

    "Speaking of which..." the woman in the blue skirt said, leaning closer to Jiang Yue and speaking in hushed tones, "That fool who stole your five-hundred-year-old demon bone is at the Sword Pavilion. I heard he became the Top Sword there, which granted them the qualifications to participate in the tournament."

    "The Top Sword of the Sword Pavilion is just a chief amongborers, right?" Jiang Yue''s expression turned icy as she recalled the young man.

    "He''s said to be at the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm," the cloud-robed youth remarked nonchntly.

    "The Establishment Dragon Spring Realm? You mean, he concealed his true power during the Heavenly Path Trial?" Jiang Yue asked, her eyebrows arching in surprise.

    "Exactly," the youth affirmed, his tone growing colder. "But fear not, Sister Jiang. The gap between the Establishment Dragon Spring and the Divine Sea is vast, as different as a small spring is from a vast ocean!"

    "Fine. If there''s a chance to face him..." Jiang Yue said with a chilly smile, her voice trailing off. She didn''t want to utter harsh words. Yet, in her heart, she understood clearly that for someone of her Comet grade caliber, the only stain on her life needed to be wiped clean. She feared Yun Xiao might not participate in the Eight Swords Conve, denying her the chance to publically redeem her previous disgrace.

    "Rest assured, Junior Sister. That Sword Pavilion is nothing but a collection of misfits. With over a hundred Sword Cultivators from our First Sword Peak, and the robust support from the Third and Sixth Sword Peaks, adding up to two hundred and forty staunch allies, the Sword Pavilion is merely a starter course for us. Our true aim isn''t just to defend our championship but to dominate utterly and rule supreme!" the cloud-robed youth dered passionately.

    "That''s enough, no need to emphasize so much. It''s as if I care deeply about it," Jiang Yue said, waving her hand dismissively.

    "Indeed!" The youth chuckled, his demeanor more submissive than what one would expect from a senior brother, especially in the presence of the Azure Spirit''s newly minted superstar, Jiang Yue.

    Jiang Yue nced over the crowd. "By the way, where is Twelfth Senior Brother Wang Feng?" she asked.

    "He''s also among thepetitors, probably preparing for the battle. He should return before themencement tomorrow," the youth replied.

    "What about Sister Yao? She said she woulde to see me, but there has been no news?" Jiang Yue said, her toneced with a hint of puzzlement.

    "I''ve heard that Swordking Ye''s younger brother met his end on the Heavenly Path. She must be busy investigating to provide an exnation to Swordking Ye, right?" The woman in the blue skirt exined with tender concern.

    "Ye Guao?" Jiang Yue''s voice carried a hint of surprise. Only after her arrival at the First Sword Peak did she learn of the child''s unfortunate demise on the Heavenly Path.. "The perpetrator hasn''t been found yet?"

    "It seems not," came a reluctant reply.

    "Oh." Jiang Yue cast her gaze towards the fogced horizon, thoughts drifting towards Ye Guying, her eyes a mix of anticipation and bitterness. "During the Eight Swords Conve, will Senior Brother Ye return to witness my performance?" She bit her crimson lip, a slight grievance flickering in her eyes.

    "Senior Brother Ye is currently at the Sea of Swords, carving history for Azure Spirit. Even the death of his brother hasn''t brought him back..." The young man in the cloud robe paused, interrupted by the blue skirt maiden hastily reassuring, "Rest assured, Junior Sister Jiang. Swordking Ye is thinking of you. Perhaps he will soon retrieve the Azure Kite and rush back to witness your splendid performance at the crucial moment."

    "Yes, yes," the young man in cloud robe chimed in with a smile that carried a note of agreement.

    "Really?" Jiang Yue wasn''t entirely appeased.

    "Err..." A brief moment of awkwardness spread among the brothers and sisters, leaving them at a loss for words.

    "I heard that Senior Brother Ye has a Dao Partner?" Jiang Yue suddenly dropped a bombshell, her gaze sweeping across the group, carrying a swirling undertow of emotions.

    "This..." A shared look of bewilderment passed among the group.

    The woman in the blue skirt gave a dryugh before rushing to rify, "Don''t worry, Junior Sister Jiang. It was just a mere engagement promise, nothing formal. Moreover... it''s already ended."

    "Is that so?" Jiang Yue pursed her lips, her gaze settling on the blue skirt woman. "I meant no offense. I just think that a person as lofty as Senior Brother Ye wouldn''t suit the ordinary riffraff."

    "Exactly!" Laughter rippled through the group.

    Jiang Yue, with her status in the Divine Sea Realm, exerted a certain pressure on them, making their presence feel somewhat overpowering. The girl blessed by the heavens, who wouldn''t tread carefully around her? Her future seemed even more promising than Ye Guying''s.

    "Junior Sister Jiang, I heard that the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone has arrived. Would you like to test it first to have a better sense of what''s toe?" the young man in the cloud robe ventured, attempting to lighten the atmosphere.

    "Will it cause a bigmotion?" Jiang Yue asked nonchntly.

    "With your Sword Soul, it''s bound to shake the Azure Spirit again, illuminating the world with its brilliance," he eximed with genuine admiration.

    "Oh?" Jiang Yue shot him a yful nce. "Test it now, and what suspense will be left for the Eight Sword Conve tomorrow?"

    The young man in the cloud robe was momentarily stunned, realization dawning upon him. It seemed this woman knew even better how to y her cards right!

    "I''ve heard that Master has invited strong Cultivators from various paths. There''s even a bigwig from the Sea of Swords attending the Eight Swords Conve. Imagine the spectacle when you ascend the First Sword Peak once again and test your Sword Soul with the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone at that time..."

    The collective imagination of the group buzzed with excitement.

    All they could feel was envy, nothing but envy!

 Chapter 021 - Swallow Tail Flash, Azure Lightning Crane, Leisurely Wander! (2)

    <h4>Chapter 021 - Swallow Tail sh, Azure Lightning Crane, Leisurely Wander! (2)</h4>

    At the Sword Pavilion, in a valley shrouded in the deep night, a spectacle unfolded inside a pitch-ck coffin.

    "You two are pretty nifty! Acting as a pet one moment, a pill furnace the next, and even transforming into a private cultivation chamber!" Yun Xiao eximed, brimming with admiration. It was like having a mobile home at his disposal!

    "Just don''t bring your Senior Sister Zhao in here for your nightly activities, alright?" Blue Star remarked, rolling its eyes dramatically.

    Yun Xiao was rendered speechless, his cheek tingling with a hint of embarrassment. In the quietude of the night, he finally unveiled the six Dragon Spring Pills he had kept hidden.

    These were six Lower Comet grade pills, hefty and dense in his palm. These wee gifts might not be on par with the Divine Sea Pill, but they embodied the benevolence and care of the elders at the Sword Pavilion. Positioning himself in a meditative pose, Yun Xiao fetched one of the Dragon Spring Pills, ready to ingest it andmence his cultivation.

    "What are you up to?" Blue Star asked, a hint of suspicion coloring its voice.

    "Popping pills, of course!" Yun Xiao replied with an air of nonchnce.

    "Pop your sister!" With a thunderous bang, the ancient bronze coffin ejected Yun Xiao, transforming into a small beast. With quick reflexes, it snatched the jade bottle from Yun Xiao''s hand, greedily gulping down the Dragon Spring Pill along with the bottle.

    "What on earth are you doing?" Yun Xiao froze, staring wide-eyed at the scene unfolding before him.

    "Just giving it a little upgrade for you!" Red Moon murmured, chomping noisily on the pilfered items.

    "What? Upgrading? Fine, upgrade it is!" Yun Xiao remarked. In no time, the six Dragon Spring Pills transformed into numerous rice-grain-sized Heavenly Dao Sariras, which materialized in his hand.

    Yun Xiao held one close to his nose, giving it a tentative sniff. "It smells like hotpot..." he remarked, perplexed and slightly amused. What was even more astonishing was the fact that Red Moon had managed to consume everything, soup and pot included! Goodness, even the iron pot!

    Yun Xiao scrutinized the Heavenly Dao Sariras in his hand, a flurry of thoughts running through his mind. Suddenly, he voiced a concern that had been nagging at him, "Hold on, won''t my cultivation be unstable if I keep advancing by popping these pills?"

    "This isn''t advancing, it''s recovering! Essentially, you are the Creator Immortal. You were just emptied and weakened," Blue Star replied, his face twisting in disdain.

    "Recovering?"

    "Yeah, so far, you''ve only restored a fraction of your original power, not even close to risking instability," Blue Star said with a dismissive snort.

    "But, shouldn''t I be having some kind of insights or epiphanies to form the conditions for a breakthrough? You know, pondering on some principles or understanding the mysteries of the Dao?" Yun Xiao asked, his face marred with confusion.

    That seemed to trigger Blue Star into a frenzy. "Insights? Epiphanies? You''re pondering if one plus one equals what now? You''re the Creator Immortal, not a pig!"

    "... So, I don''t need to meditate on anyws or mysteries to achieve a breakthrough?" Yun Xiao asked, still not fully convinced.

    "That''s a matter for higher Immortals! For now, just drink more milk and learn to crawl first!" Blue Star dered, on the verge of a meltdown.

    "Milk? Where?" Red Moon chimed in, perking up instantly upon hearing the mention of milk.

    "Fine then, I won''t hold back!" Yun Xiao said, a mischievous grin spreading across his face, ready to embrace whatever bizarre journey this cultivation process was about to take him on.

    Feast time! The Heavenly Dao Sariras, even more suited for Yun Xiao than the Dragon Spring Pills, rushed into his Dantian after being processed. The medicinal potency coursed through every limb and bone, erupting into a hotpot vored whirlwind that swept through the ancient bronze coffin.

    "Perfect Dragon Spring Realm!" Within Yun Xiao''s Dantian, amidst a misty ambiance, the Primordial Void Dragon Spring expanded, giving birth to four formidable ws, bing even more vast and magnificent. Together with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, their distinction from other Dragon Springs and Sword Souls slowly emerged with his enhancement, revealing a more terrifying potential.

    "So it seems, my future cultivation isn''t about breaking through barriers, but... restoration!" This marked the divergence between Yun Xiao and other cultivators. He was simply reiming what belonged to the Creator Immortal. The recurrent Rains of Creation, spawning countless Seeds of Creation geniuses, were the key.

    "Blue Star mentioned that Ye Guao''s Golden Dantian is the most rudimentary, yet it indeed expanded my own Dantian, amplifying my magic power by over thirty percentpared to other Sword Cultivators of the same realm."

    And as for Ye Guying¡¯s Twin Dantian, it was rumored that it could even spawn two Dragon Springs in the Dragon Spring Realm, a defiance of the heavens!

    "Yet another stage of a realm <i>restored</i>!" Yun Xiao stood up, his vigor renewed. In essence, the concept of <i>stages</i> and <i>realms</i> was all a creation of the Creator Immortal.

    "I''ll learn swordsmanship from the three elders in a bit," Yun Xiao mused. "Before the Eight Swords Conve, I wonder if I''ll be able to get a basic mastery of the techniques they teach me..."

    No sooner had Yun Xiao voiced this thought than Blue Star intervened, "Just tell them to teach you their strongest techniques!"

    "The strongest? In just one day? Isn''t that setting my sights too high?" Yun Xiao asked, skepticism coloring his words.

    "For fuck sakes...!" Blue Star replied, pping its little paw over its face. "Brother...! My brother in the Heavenly Dao...! You''re the freaking Creator Immortal! Expand your horizons!"

    "Alright, alright. I''m expanding. No need to get so snippity," Yun Xiao quipped back, rolling his eyes.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The next day, all Yun Xiao could say was that Blue Star had not deceived him. It was indeed simple. He was tempted to proim himself as the true prodigy blessed by the heavens, but knew that Blue Star would surely deem the term <i>heavenly prodigy </i>a grave insult. For he was the Creator Immortal! Merely hollowed out, nothing more. Even stripped to the bone, he was beyondparison with any so-called heavenly prodigy.

    In one day! Yun Xiao mastered the three sword techniques swiftly, leaving the three elders utterly dumbfounded.

    The three techniques were the following¡ª

    The Flying Sword Technique, Swallow Tail sh!

    The Palm Sword Technique, Azure Lightning Crane!

    The Sovereign Sword Technique, Leisurely Wander!

    Among them, Swallow Tail sh was taught by Elder Zheng. A Mid Comet grade ultimate sword technique, it was her signature move and a highly renowned technique within the Sword Pavilion lineage. The moment this Flying Sword was unsheathed, it would flicker like a swallow''s tail, taking lives in a sh! Within the arty dozens of techniques for controlling the sword, culminating in a Sword Soul that maneuvered as gracefully and unpredictably as a flying swallow, capable of making turns, transforming, returning, and creating resonances with ease. With a flicker of the Swallow Tail, it would return stained in blood!

    When Yun Xiao was choosing a Flying Sword Technique, his eyes settled on Swallow Tail sh immediately. Elder Zheng shook her head vehemently, "This is the mostplex Flying Sword Technique in the Sword Pavilion. Imagining the Flying Sword as a swallow''s tail, split in two at its end, one needs to study the flight of swallows for three years to glean some insight. It is extremely unsuitable for beginners! Moreover, it''s a Mid Comet grade sword technique. Not many Sword Cultivators under the age of thirty can master it."

    "What if I could learn it in one night?" Yun Xiao asked, an impish grin ying across his face.

    "Hahaha..." Elder Zheng''s face blossomed into a flower ofughter, skepticism radiating from her. But three hourster, herughter had turned into tears. "Monster, get out!" she cried, her pride thoroughly trampled upon. Little did she know that Yun Xiao had simrly devastated the other two elders during the day.

    Earlier in the morning, Yun Xiao had directly requested to learn the infamous Palm Sword Technique from the Sword Pavilion, Azure Lightning Crane. Rumor had it that, when perfected, it held the destructive power equivalent to a Upper Comet grade sword technique, a technique practiced by the Sword Venerables, individuals of almost legendary prowess.

    Despite its elegant name, the Azure Lightning Crane was a ruthless killing technique, each stroke ferocious. The sword moved like lightning, traversing the heavens and the earth, its de diving down at prey like a flying crane, piercing souls with a single stroke. It portrayed a vivid picture of white robes, a blue sword, and serpents of electricity.

    As Yun Xiao practiced, he quickly realized the significant difference between this Immortal sword technique and the mundane ones. The former harnessed the utmost of a cultivator''s magic power and the Sword Soul, refining it to its pinnacle.

    "So that''s why the First Sword Venerable is trying to disband the Sword Pavilion..." Yun Xiao mused. After practicing Swallow Tail sh and Azure Lightning Crane, he realized why the First Sword Venerable wanted to steal the Sword Pavilion''s legacy for the First Sword Peak. The techniques of the Sword Pavilion were indeed powerful, tempting to any observer.

    But to be frank, at the moment, the Flying Sword Technique and the Palm Sword Technique seemed more useful. Yet, what Yun Xiao craved most was the Sovereign Sword Technique. Ever since he had learned Sword Soul transformations, he had been incredibly envious of other Sword Cultivators who could soar across the sky, traversing thousands of miles with ease.

    Sword riding! This was the first impression themon folk had of a Sword Immortal. It was exceedingly exhrating. Only when one soared into the sky could they gaze upon the vast expanses, the mountains and rivers, and experience the grandeur of the world!

    Though Elder Wang was portly, his Sovereign Sword Technique Leisurely Wander was rather renowned.

    "Yun Xiao, do you think that sword riding is merely a means of transportation, or even escape? No, no, no! Don''t ever think that. I''ll have you know, the Sovereign Sword Technique is the core of the three sword techniques! Its ultimate goal is to unify man and sword, bing the strongest move of a Sword Cultivator!" Elder Wang dered proudly.

    "How can one achieve this unity of man and sword?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Well... I don''t quite know yet," Elder Wang admitted sheepishly.

    "So it''s basically for getting around or making a quick getaway, isn''t it?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Nonsense, it''s also very handy for carrying a cup of tea, no?" Elder Wang coughed defensively. Sure enough, soaring into the sky with the sword, with clothes fluttering in the wind¡ªit was a sight to behold and a skill to aspire for!

    Yun Xiao could barely contain hisughter. "A bit dramatic, aren''t you?"

    Elder Wang shook his head solemnly, dropping the yful tone. "Jokes aside, let me tell you something serious. The pinnacle Sword Cultivators can change their Sword Soul into three different forms more than ten times within a fleeting moment. Riding the Sovereign Sword for a charge, maneuvering with the Flying Sword to pierce through the enemy, and engaging in closebat with the Palm Sword in hand... all of these actions can practically ur simultaneously in a very short span of time. Do you know what the most critical role of the Sovereign Sword in this situation is?" Elder Wang asked.

    "Positioning?" Yun Xiao guessed, the hint of a smile still ying on his face.

    "...Exactly!" Elder Wang eximed. With that revtion, no one could possibly underestimate Sovereign Sword Techniques anymore.

    Without further ado, Yun Xiao embarked on learning Leisurely Wander. His verdict on this Sovereign Sword Technique was¡ª "I''m like a fish in water!" he eximed. Master control of the Sovereign Sword, and you could even dodge a Flying Sword! For the first time, he transformed the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to stretch over six feet long and a palm wide. He soared through the sky, controlling his sword with an expertise that made him seem one with the winds that swept past him, his white robe billowing like a proud g. Mountains and rivers passed beneath him like mere footnotes in his grand journey.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao''s heart surged with exhration. "The path of the Immortals...!" This was the Immortal journey he had dreamt of! Brutally unforgiving, yet... "In one''s life, if one could soar above the clouds even for a moment, chase the sun and behold the heavens, even death would be a worthy trade," he mused, a poetic fervor igniting his spirit. Yun Xiao was emotionally stirred, a tidal wave of excitement and realization crashing within him. The little ck beast barely popped its head out from his chest when the fierce wind almost blew its fur away.

    Behind him, Elder Wang was eating his dust, yelling frantically, "You brat! Be careful! My goodness, mind the bends, the bends! Damn it, drifting already on your first sword riding lesson?"

    Elder Wang was nearly having a heart attack worrying. It had to be said, the Sovereign Sword drained considerably more magic powerpared to the Flying Sword and Palm Sword.

    Not long after, Yun Xiao felt a staggering depletion in his energy, slowing down gradually. Suddenly, an elegant courtyard appeared below them. Fish ponds, osmanthus trees... It was the Little Cloud Residence!

    Yun Xiao hastily <i>braked</i> his sword, performing a graceful spin in the air, his white robe fluttering magnificently as hended¡ªa sight to behold.

    In the courtyard, a woman in a ck gown sat at a stone table, nonchntly sipping her wine with one leg cocked over the other. The divine nectar trickled down, spilling on her fair skin, glinting with a crystalline shine under the sunlight. Yet, her wild posture, coupled with the stone table...

    Yun Xiao''s mind suddenly ignited with a feverish heat.

    After gulping down thest of her wine, the woman in the ck gown sensed his intense gaze.

    "WHAT!?" Zhao Xuanran immediately spat out a mouthful of wine in surprise, hastily jumping off the stone table to straighten her disheveled dress. "Scram!" she huffed, shooting Yun Xiao a re that could have ignited a patch of dry grass.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but grin, his smile as infectious as a melody hummed on a bright morning. "Senior sister, got any more wine there?" he asked, extending a hand in a yful request.

    Just then, Elder Wang swooped in like a hawk zeroing in on its prey,nding a hearty p atop Yun Xiao''s head. It was a wallop that echoed with the stern love that only a mentor could muster.

    "Thinking of indulging in wine while riding your sword? That''s basically drunk driving,d! Be careful or I might just confiscate your sword!" Elder Wang admonished, a yful grin dancing on his lips, perfectly mingling reprimand with camaraderie.

    Yun Xiao could only offer a sheepish silence in return.

    Havingid down thew, Elder Wang scratched his head awkwardly before addressing thedy in the ck gown, "No harm done, you carry on with your drink. This youngster has a battle to face tomorrow, so I need to continue whipping him into shape!"

    Zhao Xuanran pursed her crimson lips, her gaze drifting back to Yun Xiao, as if sizing up a resilient tree that refused to bow to the fiercest wind. "Try not to die tomorrow, alright?" Her voice was soft, yet carried a weight that bore into his soul.

    Yun Xiao, with the sparkle of mischief dancing in his eyes, quipped, "If I manage to stay alive, will there be wine to celebrate?"

    A pause hung in the air, a suspended moment where dreams and dares mingled, before she nodded solemnly. "Yes." Her affirmation was not just a promise of wine, but a beacon of hope, a flicker of light in the looming darkness.

 Chapter 022 - Survive Until my Brother Returns! (1)

    <h4>Chapter 022 - Survive Until my Brother Returns! (1)</h4>

    The next day dawned in the blink of an eye, unveiling the heart of the Azure Spirit Mountains where a peak shaped like a colossal cauldron stood proudly, bearing the name Conve Mountain.

    This mountain was devoid of flora, its rocky surface a warm, earthy hue. Its summit boasted a vast, t terrain that housed hundreds of sword dueling tforms, each marked by scars of innumerable sword fights. Throughout the centuries, countless Sword Cultivators from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect had gathered here to challenge one another, their shes often determining not just victory or defeat, but life or death.

    As morning broke, the world awoke to the golden embrace of the rising sun. The tranquil morning was suddenly shattered by a resounding boom. A massive stone of azure, crimson, white, and dark green hues streaked across the sky like a beacon, its vibrant luminescence outshining the morning sun. With a deafening crash, itnded squarely on the Conve Mountain, sending tremors that shook the vegetation in the surrounding mountains and sent the wildlife scattering in all directions.

    The stone settled firmly onto the ground, its brilliance intensifying. It seemed to be constructed from four differently shaped rocks merged into one, with a hollow center that emitted a dense fog of intertwining colors. Within this swirling fog, ethereal figures of an Azure Dragon, ck Tortoise, Vermillion Bird, and White Tiger emerged, their roars and cries resonating through the very foundations of the mountain.

    "The Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone!" The elders and disciples helping prepare for the Eight Swords Conve cried out in amazement.

    Adjacent to this majestic stone, a high tform was divided into eight sections, each adorned with luxurious seats of honor, now upied by the esteemed figures of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Undoubtedly, the star of today''s event was the First Sword Venerable, Ye Tiance, a man who seemed to carry an aura of ruthlessness, with his hawk-like nose and sharp eyebrows. Even Wu Wu, the formidable Third Sword Venerable, seemed to diminish in his presence, a testimony to who held the reins of power within the sect.

    Despite Ye Tiance''s daunting presence, he exhibited reverence towards an elder seated at the central position on the tform. This man sat with a formidable grace, golden locks cascading down like a lion descending a hill. Although age had etched lines on his face, it could not conceal the regal authority emanated by him.

    "Elder Fan, I thank you once again for gracing Azure Spirit with your presence amidst your busy schedule! "

    "Thank you, Elder Fan, for bringing the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone!"

    Echoes of gratitude resonated, with everyone avoiding direct eye contact with the elder, their hearts filled with immense reverence. This was because Elder Fan hailed from the Sea of Swords a sanctified ground for true Sword Cultivators, a ce where most could only dream of reaching.

    "Elder Fan, rest assured, it''s going to be the Moon grade at the very least," Ye Tiance said solemnly.

    "That will suffice," Elder Fan nodded coldly. "I have made this journey to Azure Spirit on Ye Guying''s ount." The implicit meaning of his words hung heavy in the air¡ªy<i>ou better not waste my time.</i>

    "Ah... Elder Fan, might I inquire on the progress of Guying''s retrieval of the Azure Kite?" Ye Tiance couldn''t resist leveraging this opportunity to fortify his bond with the revered elder.

    A hint of a smile blossomed on Elder Fan''s previously stoic face. "About ny percent, I''d say," he said, his voice carrying a note of admiration. "That youngster possesses a Twin Dantian, enabling him to wield twice the magic power of his peers within the same realm. He is capable of defeating those beyond his level!

    "A Sword Cultivator, even with a lower grade Sword Soul, can rely on Sword Aura or even their Sword Rings topensate. But to possess such a heavenly gift as a Twin Dantian, that is exceedingly rare. With this talent, his future in the vast Sea of Swords is bound to be remarkable!" Elder Fan gave a knowing nod, a twinkle of amusement lighting his eyes. "Ye Tiance, you have guided him well."

    With a genuine smile dancing on his lips, Ye Tiance responded, "I am honored by your words, Elder Fan."

    "Very well! I look forward to witnessing the prowess of the disciples of the Azure Spirit and seeing miracles unfold before us," Elder Fan dered with a twinkle in his eye that mirrored his grin.

    "Congrattions Elder Fan! Congrattions First Sword Venerable!" The exmations filled the central tform, where not only the revered Elder Fan held the highest seat, but also gathered were numerous distinguished guests from all directions, notable figures in their own right.

    Among them was the Chief Steward of the Spirit Treasure Pavilion, Qian Kun, colloquially known as Qian the Plump. There was also the Master of East Arcane Ind, Chen Yihai. Additionally, a veiled woman of high status was present, rumored to be a Rogue Cultivator. She was personally invited by Ye Tiance, known as Moon Fairy. Though her true features remained hidden, her ethereal presence and exquisite figure were impossible to ignore.

    Besides these three, over a dozen other esteemed guests graced the asion, all giving Ye Tiance a great amount of respect. With him present, the other Sword Venerables from various peaks merely stood by with nods and obliging smiles, letting him take center stage.

    "Brother Ye, let''s get this started!" Qian Kun eximed, his face beaming with anticipation.

    "I''ve heard tales of the burgeoning talents in Azure Spirit, and I''ve been eager to see for myself..." Chen Yihai trailed off, his smirk carrying an undertone of disdain as he caressed the armrest of his seat, upon which the words <i>Sword Pavilion</i> was etched. An intriguing twist, considering the central tform had always been the domain of the Sword Pavilion, yet now it was reduced to a guest area?

    At this moment, Ye Tiance faced forward, his voice booming like thunder rolling across the heavens, "Thepetition is about tomence, let the Eight Swords make their entrance!" With a resonant ng that echoed like a heavenly bell, the skies responded. Clouds swirled and roiled, filling with the whistles of sword energy sweeping through.

    Humming vibrated through the air, as seven formations of Sword Cultivators broke through the clouds from seven different directions. Within the mists, young Sword Cultivators soared, riding upon massive Sword Souls that spanned six feet, traversing the clouds with a majestic splendor that evoked awe.

    Each formationprised one hundred and twenty Sword Cultivators, a spectacle of varying Sword Souls churning different elemental forces¡ªwind, thunder, frost, rain, and snow mingled, shaking the heavens with their disy of might.

    In the eyes of mere mortals, they were the embodiment of Sword Immortals. All in all, eight hundred and forty individuals took to the sky, a grand disy of power that did ample justice to the prestige of the First Sword Venerable.

    Witnessing the grandeur, the guests including Qian Kun and Chen Yihai showered praises ceaselessly, all except Elder Fan who merely twitched his lips, withholding hisments, an enigma as always.

    The vibrant youth of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect soared towards Conve Mountain on their Sovereign Swords, congregating harmoniously before the grand tform.

    Before Ye Tiance could utter a word, they were already well-rehearsed, gracefully kneeling halfway towards the stage, their voices unified in a resonant greeting, "Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators greet Elder Fan!"

    "Rise," Elder Fan gestured with a wave of his hand, showing a semnce of satisfaction. A smile rippled across Ye Tiance''s face, witnessing their impable respect and decorum.

    "Which one of you is Jiang Yue?" Elder Fan inquired, his gaze sweeping across the gathering.

    "Her." Ye Tiance pointed towards a young woman amidst the forefront. She stood as a bloom amidst clouds, surrounded by a group of other Sword Venerable disciples, her very being blossoming radiantly.

    With a confident smile gracing her face, she met Elder Fan''s gaze, holding her ground without any trace of submission or arrogance. "Impressive," Elder Fanmented, a smile finding its way into his narrowed eyes.

    "I hope Elder Fan will be pleasantly surprised," Ye Tiance grinned, his voice rising in deration, "Let the Sword Debate begin!"

    The Sword Debate, the Eight Swords Conve, and the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone¡ªthey were all set for the series of events to unfold. The anticipation built up like a crescendo, brimming to the point of take-off.

    "We''re still waiting on people," Wu Wu murmured quietly at Ye Tiance''s side, a note of urgency in his tone.

    "Didn''t they forfeit their chance?" Ye Tiance''s gaze turned icy, almost instantly.

    "They''re here." Wu Wu pointed in a particr direction, his face regaining itsposure.

    Sure enough, a group of over ten individuals made their appearance, led by a striking young woman in a ck gown. Though young, her demeanor showcased formidable spirit, spearheading her group straight towards the grand tform!

    Ye Tiance and Wu Wu exchanged a mutual nce. The two were joined by the Sixth Sword Venerable, Yao Manxue, in intercepting the neers. Yao Manxue was a woman in icy blue robes. She bore a demeanor as cold as a winter storm and also happened to be the older sister of Yao Qingqian.

    "Halt right there!" The trio positioned themselves firmly before the Sword Pavilion crowd, an authoritativemand resonating in the mountain air.

    "Zhao Xuanran, curb your audacity at once!" Wu Wu roared, his eyes fixed firmly on the young woman in ck.

    "Audacity, you say?" Zhao Xuanran''s eyes glinted with an icy resolve. "You dare use me of audacity when you allow outsiders to upy the esteemed seat of the Azure Spirit Sect Master, trampling on the dignity of our forefathers?!"

    "Would you kindly shut your mouth!" Ye Tiance shot her a dismissive nce, his irritation evident in his icy tone.

    "Oh, what could a little brat possiblyprehend? This is Elder Fan from the Sea of Swords, mind you. Even if your father could stand tall today, he would have to bow in reverence, understand?" Yao Manxue taunted with a mockingughter echoing through the mountain.

    "Had he been able to stand, the first thing he would have done is sever the shameless heads of you three contemptibleckeys!" Zhao Xuanran''s fists clenched tightly, her nails digging into her flesh, a fiery rage reflected in her bloodshot eyes.

    How could they let an outsider upy the revered seat of the Sect Master? To witness over eight hundred disciples bowing down in submission! Was this the true reflection of the steely resolve that the Azure Spirit Sword Sect boasted?

    Faced with the smug expressions of the trio before them, the people of the Sword Pavilion felt a raging fire kindle within them. This was an outright humiliation!

    All the elders of the Seven Sword Peaks upied their own distinguished seats. However, all the honored seats in the Sword Pavilion were given away to guests. The Conve Mountain itself had seats reserved for guests, right across the high tform. Since when did guests overstep their boundaries to assume the central tform?

    The ceremony of the Eight Swords Conve was an ancient tradition, known for its dignity. While the swords varied in strength, they were all deemed equal. But today, these three intended to reduce the Sword Pavilion to mere guests!

    "The Sect Master remains unconscious, and the Sword Venerables hold authority. This decision is the collective agreement of the Seven Sword Venerables. Any who dare disrupt... shall be executed!" Ye Tiance dered. With a flourish, he turned away, his robes billowing behind him, his departure abrupt and defiant.

    Wu Wu shot the Sword Pavilion crowd a fierce re and sneered, "Remember what transpired a few days ago? You can still disband the Sword Pavilion and withdraw from thepetition. Once it starts, your fates are no longer in your hands!" With that, he and the smirking Yao Manxue left with swaggering steps.

    "Xuanran, my dear!" Grandpa Qin urgently grabbed the young woman in the ck gown. His eyes were pale, his expression pleading. "Given today''s circumstances, we have no choice but to bow our heads! If we endure this humiliation now, it ensures the Sword Pavilion''s survival for at least another year..."

    All the resentment, hatred, and anger seemed doused by those chilling words. The members of the Sword Pavilion were backed into a corner, forced to swallow their pride. If they could retaliate without consequence, who wouldn''t want to?

    But thinking of the eight young disciples behind them, their courage andmitment, it was clear any retaliation would cost them dearly. These young souls, despite knowing the risks, chose to stand here, ensuring the continuation of the Sword Pavilion and preserving a path home for the departed. Why harm them further?

    Zhao Xuanran''s clenched fists slowly loosened. "Alright," she whispered, touching her lips and lowering her gaze. Her eyes, once fiery, now looked clouded. Subconsciously, she reached for her waist, searching for theforting presence of a sk, but today she had no drink. Thinking of drinks made her think of someone.

    She nced back at the crowd and found a young man in white looking directly at her. Their eyes met, and he offered her a warm, calming smile, like a ray of sunshine piercing the gloom. In this chaotic world, even the sacrednds of Azure Spirit faced corruption. Yet, this young man stood out like a pure lotus in the mud, untainted.

    Unknown to Zhao Xuanran, members from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks had also set their sights on this young man in white.

    "Is that the greenhorn from the Sword Pavilion?" a disciple whispered.

    "I''ve heard he even forced his way into bing the Sect Master''s Disciple. What a joke! A disciple with just a Low Meteor grade Sword Soul?" another scoffed.

    "Whoever faces himter, wipe him out. Got it?"

    "Thinking of supporting the teetering edifice of the Sword Pavilion? Better check if you''re sturdy enough to withstand a blow!" anotherughed mockingly.

    "Hahahaha!" The disciples roared inughter.

    "I''ve heard he snatched the top spot on the Heavenly Path Trial from the peerless immortal genius of the First Sword Peak. It''d be best to personally hand him over to Jiang Yue for execution," a disciple suggested, punctuating the words with a snicker that rang ominously through the still air.

    Meanwhile, the atmosphere on the other Sword Peaks¡ªSecond, Fourth, Fifth, and Seventh¡ªwas rtively more subdued, tinged with a sense of resigned detachment, as if they were shying away from any aspirations or desires.

    "The Eight Swords Conve is starting immediately!"

    Upon hearing these words, the hearts of all the disciples attending the Eight Swords Conve throbbed wildly, a symphony of heightened anticipation and exhration. The intense and exciting battle was on the brink of unfolding.

    Over at the Sword Pavilion, Grandpa Qin was impartingst-minute words of caution to the eight participating disciples.

    "Did you grasp my words? Once you step onto the sword dueling tform, no matter who you face, withdraw immediately," Grandpa Qin informed with gravity that hung heavily in the air. To withdraw was to surrender.

    "Yes," Cai Maomao, Qin Tong, and others voiced in unison, though their agreement was tinged with bitterness, the taste of unfulfilled ambition.

    "My children..." the elderly man''s voice wavered, heavy with the weight of tragedy, "We''ve lost too many young ones vying for the honor of the Sword Pavilion in thest two Eight Swords Conves over these three years. You eight are all that''s left. I can''t bear to see the elderly outlive the young any longer..."

    To participate meant that the Sword Pavilion could sustain its existence for another year. But whether they fought or not, they were destined to finish at the bottom. Was it really worth sacrificing lives for? Surrendering at the outset, at least, presented a chance for survival.

    Grandpa Qin turned a stern eye towards Yun Xiao, "Especially you, Yun Xiao. Are you listening?"

    Looking at the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, Yun Xiao appeared to be lost in his thoughts.

    "Yun Xiao?" Grandpa Qin reiterated, a hint of sternness surfacing in his tone.

    "Ah! Yes, yes, I got it," Yun Xiao replied hurriedly, a sudden re of determination igniting in his eyes. "I''ll seize victory on every front."

    "What? I told you to surrender the moment you step onto the tform!" Grandpa Qin Qin eximed, his eyes widening in disbelief.

    "No worries, I''ll surrender in every round," Yun Xiao assured confidently.

    "Every round?" Cai Maomao chimed in with a sweat-beaded brow, "Junior Brother Yun, you can only surrender once."

    "Oh, I see!" Yun Xiao eximed, a nod signaling his supposed understanding.

    "No, it seems you don''t quite grasp the rules?" Cai Maomao remarked, a hint of worrycing his voice.

    "I spent all of yesterday practicing my swordsmanship. I didn''t have time to familiarize myself with the rules." Yun Xiao shrugged nonchntly.

    "No need for a deep understanding, just surrender and you''ll be fine," Grandpa Qin continued to nag, the worry etched across his face a testimony to the tumultuous times the Sword Pavilion faced.

 Chapter 023 - Survive Until my Brother Returns! (2)

    <h4>Chapter 023 - Survive Until my Brother Returns! (2)</h4>

    As the Eight Swords Conve was about tomence, Yun Xiao pulled Cai Maomao aside to inquire, "How does this battle work?"

    Cai Maomao exined, "The Eight Swords Conve consists of two phases. The first is the Sword Debate and the second is the Grand Conve itself!"

    "What is the Sword Debate?" Yun Xiao asked, a frown of confusion marring his forehead.

    "The Sword Debate is a series of one-on-one battles where individuals fight for honor and rewards. More than eight hundred Sword Cultivators will pair off, facing each other on over four hundred sword dueling tforms," Cai Maomao elucidated.

    "So, it''s continuous one-on-one battles until a champion emerges? That seems like it would take a while," Yun Xiao remarked, scratching his head in perplexity. He had heard that the Sword Debate would onlyst half an hour.

    "Absolutely not!" Cai Maomao shook his head, a trace of amusement flickering in his eyes. "The Sword Debate is timed to half an hour. Within this timeframe, if you defeat your opponent, you can immediately ascend to another tform where a battle has concluded and continue fighting. The faster you overpower your adversaries, the quicker you canmence the next battle. When the half-hour mark arrives, rankings will be determined based on the number of Sword Points umted."

    "Sword Points?"

    "Yes. Sword Points will be distributed shortly. Defeating an opponent allows you to acquire their Sword Points," Cai Maomao confirmed.

    "Does everyone start with the same amount of Sword Points?" Yun Xiao asked, curiosity piqued.

    "Of course not. The stronger individuals start with more Sword Points. Those in the Late Dragon Spring Realm get one Sword Point, those at Perfect Dragon Spring Realm get two, those in the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm get three, and those in the Divine Sea Realm get five," Cai Maomao exined.

    The sun bore down as Yun Xiao scratched his head, the itch of curiosity prickling at him. "So, I start with three Sword Points, right?" he ventured, his gaze sharp and calcting. Even though he was at the Perfect Dragon Spring Realm, he was known as an Establishment Dragon Spring Realm disciple, one who had defeated Wu Jianyang.

    Cai Maomao gave him a look that was part amusement and part exasperation. ¡°No, you, my friend, start with a grand total of ten Sword Points.¡±

    Yun Xiao blinked, the corners of his lips twitching upwards, ¡°And why is that?¡±

    Cai Maomao exined, ¡°Because you are the Top Sword, the very face of the Sword Pavilion. It''s supposed to be an incentive to challenge strong opponents. Anyone who defeats you gets an extra reward.¡±

    Yun Xiao leaned back, absorbing this new information, a slow grin spreading across his face. "So, in other words, I start off with higher initial Sword Points than others, and as long as I don''t lose, these ten points are mine to keep, contributing to my final ranking?"

    Cai Maomao nodded vigorously. "Exactly!" Inyman''s terms, it was a race against time. Half an hour to carve a path of victory and seize the coveted title of Champion of the Sword Debate.

    Eyes gleaming with an insatiable curiosity, Yun Xiao leaned in closer, his voice tinged with the spirit ofpetition, "What''s in it for the Champion of the Sword Debate? I mean, what''s the prize?¡±

    "Well, there are heaps of rewards starting from the top hundred, including¡ª" Cai Maomao began.

    Yun Xiao, however, raised a hand to stop him, his expression turning serious, "Just tell me the prize for first ce. That''s all that matters." His words sliced through the air, a clear indicator of his resolve to aim for nothing but the top.

    Cai Maomao paused, the smile fading as he nced at Yun Xiao. Thetter''s stern face showed no signs of jest. Swallowing, he whispered, almost hesitatingly, "But Grandpa Qin asked you to surrender..."

    Yun Xiao''s eyebrows twitched upwards in a defiant arc. "Spit it out."

    The tension hung heavily in the air before Cai Maomao finally spoke, his voice cracking with excitement, "The skull of a Thousand-Year-Old Demon Emperor and twenty Dragon Spring Pills!" He couldn''t help but be a little excited.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, his face splitting into a grin that matched Cai Maomao''s. "Adding fuel to the fire, aren''t they?"

    "Yeah..." Cai Maomao''s grin faded into a bitter smile, unable to deny the tant bribery at y here.

    Yun Xiao knew exactly what a Thousand-Year-Old Demon Emperor represented. There was only one in the Northern Wastnds, and rumor had it that three years ago, it led tens of thousands of demons that forced the Sect Master of the Azure Spirit to shatter his sword in ast-ditch attack, asserting its reign as the monarch amongst demons, a being with a thousand years of cultivation. The first ce trophy might not belong to the current Demon Emperor, but possibly to one of its ancestors.

    Cai Maomao shrugged, a hint of pride in his voice. "This is the finestmunal treasure that Azure Spirit currently possesses, even more precious than the Divine Sea Pill."

    Understanding dawned on Yun Xiao as he nodded, his determination only fueling the fire within him. This wasn''t just a personal artifact, but a gem that belonged to the entire Azure Spirit Sword Sect. A stake of such grandeur?

    Who was it meant for? The realization struck him like a bolt of lightning. This was a game of immense stakes, a gamble with the legacy of Azure Spirit on the line!

    Cai Maomao sighed, his voice echoing with an odd mix of anticipation and mncholy, "The Eight Swords Conve, today we fight for treasure, tomorrow for honor!"

    Battling in the Sword Debate was for personal glory. Joining the Grand Conve, however, was for the honor of the Sword Peaks and Sword Pavilion!

    "How do you take part in the Grand Conve?" Yun Xiao asked casually, as though discussing the weather.

    "It''s a team battle." Cai Maomao stuck his tongue out, a hint of fear tingeing his voice.

    "A teamposed of...?"

    "One branch against another!" Cai Maomao eximed, a note of dread ringing through his words.

    Yun Xiao paused, his gaze drifting from the Sword Pavilion to the other Sword Peaks. His voice dripped with disbelief as he asked, "Eight people... against a hundred and twenty?"

    "Nope," Cai Maomao shook his head firmly.

    Yun Xiao sighed in relief.

    "It''s just you, alone, fighting against the top hundred and twenty disciples from a Sword Peak," Cai Maomao added, his voice carrying a morbid kind of humor.

    "Damn it! Why?" Yun Xiao questioned, his face reflecting his incredulity.

    "Because the rest of us seven, well, we chose to save our skin rather than fight in the Sword Debate. So, there''s no way we''re showing up for the Grand Conve. The Sword Debate at least offers a chance for some semnce of dignity, but the Grand Conve is just a one-way ticket to oblivion. If we survive the Sword Debate, the Sword Pavilion stands strong, and we needn''t show up tomorrow," Cai Maomao exined, his voice a mix of regret and resignation.

    "Alright," Yun Xiao clenched his teeth, determination ring in his eyes. "You mentioned the Grand Conve is a battle for honor. What kind of honor are we talking about?"

    "The ranking of the Sword Peaks. It dictates the distribution of resources among the branches of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect for the uing year. The higher the rank, the greater the priority in acquiring essential cultivation resources like pills, demon bones, armor, sword techniques, and daoist spells. So, in essence, it''s still a fight for oneself," Cai Maomao said, a hint of sadness creeping into his tone.

    "Is there anything else?"

    "There''s something far more important!" Cai Maomao''s eyes ignited with fervor.

    "What is it?"

    "The Azure Spirit Cauldron."

    "What''s that?"

    "Look, over there!"

    Following the direction of Cai Maomao''s pointing finger, Yun Xiao''s gazended on a massive azure cauldron stationed near the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone. Positioned at the heart of Conve Mountain, the cauldron emanated an air of ancient weightiness,manding reverence from all who beheld it.

    "What''s so special about it? What does it do?" Yun Xiao asked, his curiosity piqued.

    "It''s the first sacred relic of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, a supreme magic weapon! It has the power to gather spiritual energy. Whichever Sword Peak possesses it will have spiritual energy several times richer than others!" Cai Maomao exined, his voice tinged with envy.

    "So it rotates annually? Whichever Sword Peak stands victorious in the Grand Conve ims it for the year?" Yun Xiao narrowed his eyes, pieces of the puzzle starting to fall into ce in his mind.

    "Yes!" Cai Maomao sighed heavily, shaking his head as he continued, "I told you before that the Azure Spirit Sword Sect is an alliance of eight powerful factions, right? Initially, this cauldron was the personal property of our Sword Pavilion, onlyter did it be a shared treasure of the entire sect. For a hundred years, before three years ago, it stood before the Grand Hall.

    "And for thest three years, it''s belonged to the First Sword Peak. From this, you can guess the reason behind Ye Tiance and his group''s wolfish ambitions," he finished, a bitterness seeping through his words.

    "I understand now," Yun Xiao nodded, a storm brewing in his eyes, ready to unleash its fury at the opportune moment.

    "Junior Brother Yun, I advise you to try your luck in the Sword Debate, it might aid in your cultivation. But for the Grand Conve, I''d rmend not participating," Cai Maomao said, gritting his teeth.

    "Why?"

    "Last year, Senior Sister Zhao topped the Sword Debate but wasn''t satisfied. She joined the Conve."

    "And lost?"

    "Against a hundred and twenty Sword Cultivators, even a genius with heaven-defying abilities stands no chance," Cai Maomao took a deep breath, his smile filled with bitterness. "Moreover, the Grand Conve follows a knockout system with pairs. The initial battle pairs the first against the eighth. If we join, our first battle would be against the strongest, the First Sword Peak."

    "Was she injured?" Yun Xiao asked, his eyes drifting to the woman in the ck gown up ahead.

    "Yes, she took half a year to recover and is still gued by lingering wounds," Cai Maomao said, his voice filled with sympathy and regret.

    Yun Xiao was acutely aware of the deep sword wounds that adorned Zhao Xuanran''s body. It was a brutal testament to battles fought, a constetion of scars that told stories of valor and pain. He couldn''t recall ever seeing a woman bearing such a history on her skin, scars that whispered tales of countless sword fights. It left him with a blend of awe and concern, unsure if he should admire her resilience or worry for her wellbeing.

    Out of nowhere, Cai Maomao eximed, "They''re distributing Sword Points!"

    Sword Points, ethereal manifestations of a cultivator''s prowess, hovered around an individual like fireflies dancing in the night sky. As Cai Maomao spoke, a single point settled beside him, a modest representation of his skill. Meanwhile, ten luminous points circled Yun Xiao, a testament to his formidable abilities. It was a dance of light that heralded themencement of the Eight Swords Conve, a contest of swordsmanship where reputations were forged and shattered.

    With his newly acquired points, Yun Xiao also received his initial dueling tform assignment for the Sword Debate. "I''m Number 003. What about you?" Yun Xiao asked, a flicker of enthusiasm lighting up his eyes.

    "Number 205," Cai Maomao replied, chest puffed out in a mixture of pride and defiance.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, "That''s quite a distance from me. Remember, don''t hesitate to forfeit if you must."

    His concern was genuine; the gap in their tform numbers made it impossible to aid Cai Maomao if things went awry. But Cai Maomao rolled his eyes dramatically, showcasing a mboyant fearlessness. "Do you really think I need a reminder to value my own life? Those rascals will certainly try to provoke me, to taunt and humiliate me into fighting them. But, I intend to survive!" His bold words belied the sadness that suddenly swelled in his eyes, a raw emotion that spoke volumes. It wasn''t death he feared, but the prospect of leaving his brother alone in a world fraught with peril.

    Suddenly, a wave of murmurs rolled through the crowd gathered on Conve Mountain, drawing their attention.

    "Jiang Yue, with thirty Sword Points?" someone eximed, disbelief weaving through their words.

    "She''s not even the Top Sword, how did she receive such a high initial value? This isn''t fair, is it?"

    "The decision was unanimous among the Seven Sword Venerables," someone else chimed in, attempting to bring a semnce of reason to the escting whispers.

    "The higher the Sword Points, the greater the risk and reward. Defeating her is equivalent to triumphing over thirty Late Dragon Spring Realm opponents!"

    "But who would dare? Azure Spirit only has one foolhardy novice in the Sword Pavilion!"

    "Well, true."

    "Let''s notpare ourselves to Jiang Yue, she''s a freakish genius."

    Within the buzzing crowd, Jiang Yue stood as a beacon of brilliance and raw talent, an empress among prodigies. A halo of thirty twinkling points encircled her, each shining brightly, drawing envious stares from every corner of Conve Mountain.

    "With my heavenly talent, who dares to challenge me?" Jiang Yue dered, her eyes frosty yet alight with confidence. A smile graced her face, a beautiful blend of pride and anticipation for the battles thaty ahead.

    "The Sword Debate begins! All participants, ascend to your dueling tforms!" Ye Tiance''s booming voice echoed through the mountains, tinged with eager anticipation.

    Everyone had been assigned a starting dueling tform number. Yun Xiao was set for tform number three. With the defeat of the first opponent, the challengers could then move freely to engage others, seizing their Sword Points, in a brutal contest that wouldn''t cease until the half-hour mark.

    The rules were as fierce as they came, a pure embodiment of brutality, sparking a fervent fervor that surged through the gathered masses like a tidal wave of heated blood.

    There came the sound of boots on wood, an orchestrated drumroll as over eight hundred contestants scaled more than four hundred dueling tforms that stood scattered in the grand arena. Cai Maomao found himself at a considerable distance from Yun Xiao, having to half-run and half-jog to find his designated spot before leaping onto it with a mixture of determination and dread.

    But before he could even catch his breath, a frigid gaze locked onto him, a sensation akin to plunging into an icy abyss enveloping him.

    "You belong to the Sword Pavilion, don''t you?" The voice, as cold as the frozenkes in winter, belonged to a woman who made her deductions from the sword robe that adorned Cai Maomao.

    With great difficulty, Cai Maomao lifted his head to meet her eyes. A young woman stood before him, adorned with twinkling points of light dancing around her and exuding a frosty aura that seemed to swirl and cascade in all directions.

    "Jiang Yue?!" Cai Maomao''s entire frame quaked at the realization.

    But before he could muster another thought, Ye Tiancai, the presiding figure at the event, announced the beginning of the grand duel. Panic surged through Cai Maomao, quick as lightning, forcing him to step back with hands raised in surrender.

    "I surrender! I forfeit!" he yelled, his voice echoing across the arena. This deration would mean Jiang Yue acquired his Sword Points and had the freedom to challenge a different opponent.

    A sigh of relief escaped him as he retreated, but this ephemeral peace was shattered as Jiang Yue''s eyes turned colder still, a frosty abyss in her gaze.

    "Dogs of the Sword Pavilion must die!" Jiang Yue hissed, unsheathing her weapon.

    A metallic ring echoed throughout the arena as a Sword Soul with the ferocity of the Divine Sea Realm shot forth, morphing into a Flying Sword targeting him.

    "You''re breaking the..." Cai Maomao started, his face a canvas of hues between fear and anger. He had surrendered; she shouldn''t have attacked.

    But anger could do little against the Sword Soul that was now aimed at his throat, a clear intention to kill hanging in the air. In a desperate bid for survival, Cai Maomao summoned every ounce of strength to dodge the attack.

    With a grotesque sound, the frosty Sword Soul grazed past his shoulder, leaving a trail of blood that painted the sky a gruesome red.

    Cai Maomao let out a scream, a wail of pure agony as he tumbled down from the dueling tform. His right arm hung grotesquely, almost severed and gushing a river of blood. The icy power of the Sword Soul seeped into his wound, freezing and nearly rendering the entire arm useless.

    Fire ignited in Cai Maomao''s eyes as he red at Jiang Yue, spitting out words fueled by pure rage and humiliation. "I forfeited, yet you dare to break the rules and attack me!"

    "The rules prohibit killing people, not ughtering dogs," Jiang Yue retorted, her icy smile cutting deeper than any sword. She flew off the dueling tform, her vengeful trajectory clear as she approached the fallen Cai Maomao with murderous intent.

    Cai Maomao, a figure carved from desperation and fear, scanned his surroundings. The elders, supposed pirs of justice and order, stood arms crossed and gazes lifted towards the heavens, seeming to be entranced by the ethereal patterns of the clouds rather than attending to the carnage unfolding below.

    "Y-you all!" Cai Maomao cried out, his face drained of all color, resembling dampened earth after a ruthless storm. A dreadful premonition wed at him. His life thread was fraying rapidly, threatening to snap at any moment. Desperation wed at his voice, a somber note amidst the chaos, "Brother..."

    It was a pitiful and heartbreaking sound, tinged with the despair of knowing that he might not survive to see his brother return. Tears mingled with snot, painting lines of anguish across his grimy face. A mosaic of despair crafted with the most bitter of mediums.

    Meanwhile, not too far away, at the bustling third sword dueling tform, an urgent cry sliced through the din. Blue Star eximed, sounding rm bells that reverberated ominously in Yun Xiao''s chest, "Your Senior Brother Cai is up against Jiang Yue. She intends to kill him!"

    In that fleeting moment, Yun Xiao''s eyes ignited with a blood-red fury that could scorch the heavens. Though he had carried the mantle of Sect Master''s disciple with stoic calm, the camaraderie and warmth Cai Maomao brought into his life melted the icy barricades around his heart.

    Friendship, a beacon in the darkness of solitude, was now under threat. Friendship was not to be trampled upon, not while Yun Xiao drew breath. How many true friends does one find in a lifetime?

    With a fiery resolve burning in his eyes, Yun Xiao felt a murderous intent boiling within him, fierce enough to sear the heavens themselves. Just then, a scornful voice pierced through his bubbling wrath, a taunt that added fuel to the raging inferno within him.

    ''Yun Xiao, mark my words. I''ll crush you this time!" Wu Jianyang stood defiantly opposite him, filled with the kind of arrogance that only stemmed from the privilege of lineage. The son of the Third Sword Venerable, a blight upon Yun Xiao''s path. Fresh from a pampering recoveryden with a fortune of pills, he was back with a vengeance, ready to squash Yun Xiao beneath his boot in a shameful disy of power.

    "Just watch. You''re dead!" His snideughter, filled with wicked mirth, echoed ominously. Aughter that boasted of victory before the battle had even begun, aughter that grated on Yun Xiao''s nerves, igniting a primal fury within him.

    But as the nefariousughter still echoed in the air, a streak of azure light shed past. In a heartbeat,ughter morphed into a grotesque silence, as Wu Jianyang''s head exploded into a spray of blood and gore, a grisly flower blooming amidst the carnage, his lifeless body crumpling to the ground in a dance of death, blood sttering like a morbid rain.

    "Jiang Yue!" In the ensuing silence, a roar thundered across the dueling tforms, a tempest of rage and vengeance birthed from Yun Xiao''s throat. And with an elemental fury coursing through him, he rose upon his Sovereign Sword, soaring across the Conve Mountain in a single bound.

 Chapter 024 - Sword Shattering Vows

    <h4>Chapter 024 - Sword Shattering Vows</h4>

    Sovereign Sword Technique¡ªLeisurely Wander! Like a silver ghost flitting beside a streak of azure light, Yun Xiao darted and danced through the sky, reminiscent of fish navigating through the depths of an ancient sea. He whizzed past various duel tforms, leaving a trail of astonishment in their wake. A gust of fierce wind arose wherever he went!

    "What in the heavens?"

    "Who is that!"

    "Oh no, my toup¨¦e!"

    ...

    Many people gasped in shock. Who in the world was riding their sword across the Conve Mountain? <i>HUM! </i>The shrill cry of sword whistled through air, sounding like steel needles grazing past their ears, causing many to furrow their brows in difort.

    Azure light flitted like a shadow! The Leisurely Wander technique unfolded gracefully, akin to a swordfish plunging into the sea and slicing through towering waves!

    On the western side of Conve Mountain, Cai Maomao felt a surge of fear envelop him, he turned and ran, shouting hysterically, "Murder! This is against the rules, murder!" He felt a stabbing pain in his shoulder, and blood gushed out wildly!

    "Someone, save me..." Chills ran down Cai Maomao''s spine. Death was looming just behind him, his legs were giving out. <i>CRASH! </i>Just as he braced himself for the inevitable, a jarring collision echoed from behind him, sounding like a violent sh between two iron pirs.

    The tremendous surge of magical power from the collision struck Cai Maomao square in the back, sending him flying and rolling several times on the ground.

    "I... I''m not dead!" Though battered and disheveled, Cai Maomao deduced from his experience that someone hade to his rescue. The noise just now, it was the sound of two Sword Souls shing! Which meant, if not for the timely intervention of that sword, Jiang Yue''s Sword Soul would have pierced right through his heart!

    "Who...?" Overwhelmed with emotion, tears flowed from Cai Maomao''s eyes. He turned around to see a figure in white mming onto the ground with a thud, standing protectively before him!

    <i>VROOM! </i>Suddenly, from the sky descended an azure Sword Soul,nding gracefully into the palm of the neer. The Sword Soul spun like a cyclone of death, emanating a piercing screech that sounded like a primordial beast that devoured death itself, hinting that this was no ordinary sword, but something far more ancient and savage!

    "Junior Brother Yun! You have my utmost gratitude!" Cai Maomao cried, his tears flowing unreservedly. Crossing the entire Conve Mountain to save him? This was straight out of a heroic rescue story! "If... if I were a woman, I would devote myself to you tonight!" he sobbed.

    "Don''t repay kindness with enmity!" Yun Xiao quipped back, shooting him a nce that contained a mixture of amusement and relief. "Hurry up and get your wounds treated quickly!" Cai Maomao''s wounds were bone deep, a ghastly melodyposed by Jiang Yue. His arm hung precariously, threatening to severpletely if more time ticked by without intervention.

    "For heaven''s sake, don''t engage with her! She''s the one person in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect you don''t want to mess with..." Cai Maomao''s voice was tinged with a desperate urgency, his eyes meeting Yun Xiao''s with a raw plea. However, the fiery look in Yun Xiao''s eyes heralded nothing but trouble. It was the same searing gaze that had witnessed the demise of Wang Feng and Yao Qingqian under the moonlit night.

    "Off-limits, you say? Watch me invite the storm!" Yun Xiao retorted, spinning around with defiant courage.

    Across from him stood a young woman adorned in a robe embroidered with cloud patterns, a sword maven with eyes cold as the winter''s frost, bearing down upon him with a contempt that seemed celestial. Perched upon the dueling tform, she exhibited a disdain akin to an Immortal scrutinizing mere mortals from her heavenly abode.

    "Yun Xiao, I warned you three days ago, I will return that day''s humiliation tenfold!" Her voice was as icy as a cier, her finger pointing usingly at Yun Xiao. "Even if you had chosen to hide, after ughtering him, I would have sought you out specifically!"

    Determined to cleanse her honor and wash away the lone stain on her pristine reputation, she perceived herself as a celestial maiden soaring the skies. Yet, the youth before her, despite his breathtaking appearance that held the crowds'' attention, irked her profoundly, whether it was his reputation, disposition, or conduct.

    As her words hung in the frosty air, a resounding thud echoed. Yun Xiao, the young man in white, had boldly ascended the dueling tform, eliciting a sarcastic shake of the head from Jiang Yue.

    "Do you really fancy yourself my equal, just because you''ve wormed your way into bing the Sect Master''s Disciple? Dreaming of shing swords with me along the path of Immortals eternally?" She scoffed, her eyes filled with derision. "Wake up, Yun Xiao! Your one-time victory has exhausted a lifetime of fortune!"

    Her icy contempt red, "I hope you realize, on this dueling tform, life and death are inconsequential. Even your new status won''t protect you from my Ice Moon Sword Soul!"

    Their confrontation drew the gazes of many, setting tongues wagging and heads turning. At the high tform Zhang Jian, the Sword Venerable of the Seventh Sword Peak, conversed with one of his elders Yu Xuanzhoo.

    "So that''s Yun Xiao?" Zhang Jian eyed Yu Xuanzhou critically, his voice tinged with usation.

    "Yes," Yu Xuanzhou nodded, a flush of shame coloring his cheeks.

    "Did you notice Jiang Yue''s formidable presence?" Zhang Jian ground out, his teeth clenching audibly.

    "I did. A true prodigy destined to rise. Not even the gods can halt her ascent now," Yu Xuanzhou replied, his face a mask of bitterness.

    "What possessed you to shield Yun Xiao at that time?" Zhang Jian''s anger surged like a tidal wave.

    "I had no idea she harbored such terrifying potential!" Yu Xuanzhou defended hastily, "But rest assured, I have already apologized to Yao Qingqian and have decisively severed ties with Yun Xiao!"

    "Next time, open your eyes wider, will you?" Zhang Jian spat out, his disdain palpable.

    "Yes, yes, yes..." Yu Xuanzhou agreed, his face twisted in distress.

    Back on the sword dueling tform, a resonant sound of steel sang through the air.

    Jiang Yue had transformed her Ice Moon Sword Soul into a three-foot-long azure ice sword, ready in her grip for battle.

    "Yun Xiao, what''s the matter? Cat got your tongue?" The disdain in Jiang Yue''s voice was palpable as she taunted him, her voice echoing across the duel tform.

    "By now, you should''ve heard that I''ve reached the Divine Sea Realm, and that I''ve solidified my seventhyer of Sword Aura! I bet the news has got you shaking in your boots and regretting your choices now, hasn''t it?" Her taunts escted, her voice reaching a fever pitch as her words cascaded down upon Yun Xiao, a torrent of icy disdain.

    With a wicked grin that could send shivers down anyone''s spine, she issued her ultimatum, "I''ll give you a chance, if you kneel, kowtow to me, and dere to the crowd that you, the Sect Master''s disciple, are nothing but a dog, I might spare you."

    As more disciples from the First Sword Peak gathered, Jiang Yue''s arrogance soared to new heights, fuelled by the attention she was receiving from the elders on the high tform. Reveling in the newfound information about the conflicts between the First Sword Peak and the Sword Pavilion, her cruelty blossomed unabated.

    "So, forcing the dignified Sect Master''s Disciple to kneel before me will indeed make all disciples of the First Sword Peak prostrate themselves in admiration, won''t it?" Her eyes glinted with sadistic pleasure as she envisioned her triumph.

    Whispers andughter erupted amongst the assembled crowd, consisting of disciples from various peaks, their words tinged with mockery and contempt for Yun Xiao. "Has he lost his voice?" someone joked, as another added fuel to the fire, "Check if he''s wet himself, hahaha..."

    Jiang Yue, no longer able to contain herself, lifted her Ice Moon Sword Soul, its Seven-Layer Sword Aura pointing menacingly at Yun Xiao. A chill descended on the dueling tform, the temperature dropping sharply as the sword emitted an icy mist that enveloped Yun Xiao, frosting his long hair and white robes.

    "Kneel! Or die!" Jiang Yuemanded, the malice in her voice unmistakable. She waited, a mocking smile dancing on her frosty face, expecting Yun Xiao to surrender and kowtow in submission.

    But, at that moment, the young man dressed in white before her chuckled, a hint of a smirk ying on his lips. "Seems like a crow feasting on a phoenix pill really is something, huh?" His voice cut through the chilly air, the amusement evident in his tone.

    Jiang Yue''s heart skipped a beat, her face contorting in a mix of rage and surprise. How dare he still dare to fight back? "Yun Xiao, you don''t even deserve to look up to my future," she spat out, her fury boiling over.

    As she stared at the defiant figure before her, a sudden realization struck her. The parallels between Yun Xiao and the young emperor who had once faced Ye Guying were too uncanny. The resemnce shook her to her core, her internal fortress crumbling under the pressure.

    "You deserve to die!" Jiang Yue''s voice was a mix of panic and rage. Despite knowing that the dead could note back, the eerie resemnce drove her into a frenzy, stirring a whirlpool of emotions, including a hint of fear.

    "No, I am in the Divine Sea Realm! I am among the elite disciples of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect!" she reminded herself, gritting her teeth. Determination reced fear, her eyes shining with a cold, stormy fury as she gripped her Ice Moon Sword Soul tightly, ready tounch herself at Yun Xiao.

    With a roar that echoed like thunder, Jiang Yue''s magic power surged, showcasing her might that now rivaled even that of Yao Qingqian! She initiated her offensive, unleashing her cial Sword Art, an imposing technique where sword rays flowed like icy rivers, cascading with an overpowering momentum that threatened to engulf Yun Xiao.

    With a de in hand, Yun Xiao retaliated with a ferocious thrust!

    "A nineyer Sword Aura?" Jiang Yue discerned the details, her pupils contracting subtly. Had the Sword Pavilion really gone to such lengths to forge a Low Meteor grade Sword Soul?

    In the world of Sword Cultivators, skirmishes were decided in mere moments. Was Jiang Yue strong? Yes, indeed! Her prowess was undeniable! However, in Yun Xiao''s eyes, no matter how powerful her magic power or Sword Soul was, it amounted to nothing more than a trifle.

    In the center of the sword dueling tform, the young man d in white tapped his foot, suddenly elerating with immense speed. Utilizing his Palm Sword Technique, he executed the Azure Lightning Crane!

    Jiang Yue had honed her cial Sword Art for three months, while Yun Xiao had mastered the initial strike of the Azure Lightning Crane in merely half an hour. And yet, the moment his de surged forth, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul erupted with a fric surge of azure electricity, melding with the nineyer Sword Aura to forge a heavenly crane in flight! This strike was as swift as lightning descending from the heavens!

    The cial Sword Art was merely a Lower Meteor grade technique, while the Azure Lightning Crane was Mid Comet grade. The gap between them was simply immense.

    When Yun Xiao unleashed his strike, the ferocious azure currents instantly overwhelmed Jiang Yue''s icy streams, resembling a thunderous lion pouncing upon a helpless rabbit.

    "Ah!!" Jiang Yue''s Sword Soul trembled in her grip, the structure of her cial Sword Art crumbling in an instant. A shock resonated in her heart as her eyes widened in disbelief. In her eyes, Yun Xiao transformed into a force as monumental as the heavens and the earth. The azure lightning sword rays acted as the judge of life and death, the awe-inspiring might piercing through her arrogance once more.

    It was the arrogance she had painstakingly built, breaking through the five stages of the Dragon Spring Realm into the Divine Sea Realm, all shattering in an instant! Much like thest time, it was identical! She was so frightened that she lost even the courage to counter with her de! She realized that if she chose to retaliate, death might be her fate!

    <i>THUD! </i>Herplexion turned ghastly, a shriek escaped her as she, a peerless celestial genius, retreated in utter disarray. Under the oppressive sword intent, tears streamed from her eyes as she stumbled and crawled away frantically.

    <i>KLANG! </i>The azure Sword Soul grazed past the Ice Moon Sword Soul for the second time, creating a shower of sparks in its wake.

    Streaks of azure light entwined with the Ice Moon Sword Soul, causing it to screech and quiver vehemently. Multiple sword rays whisked past Jiang Yue''s neck and body, leaving over a dozen wounds and causing blood to spray out wildly in a ghastly dance.

    "No!" She cried, not even having regained her bnce, letting out a scream of utter desperation. Before her, a fist ballooned in size, threatening to eclipse the sun in her panicked sight. Within a heartbeat, it collided ruthlessly with her face.

    <i>CRASH! </i>Jiang Yue''s face became a canvas of sttering blood, her body flying away like a kite whose strings had been severed with a vicious snip. She crashed onto the ground, a grotesque mask of gore was all that was left of her once delicate face. Her nose was smashed into her facial bones, teeth shattered, several falling as useless remnants of what once was a pristine smile. Her heart shattered, crumbling in a way that seemed irreparable.

    She was a beauty, wasn''t she? A heavenly prodigy on the verge of soaring to unparalleled heights? But here she was, dumbstruck. Her head buzzed, a cacophony of disbelief and shame echoing within. The prospective Immortal, who stood at the pinnacle of existence, had fled in fear of a sword and was now disfigured by a punch. A spectacle witnessed by all!

    The disciples from the nearby Sword Peaks had a front-row seat to this horrifying drama, observing every gruesome detail with unflinching rity. If the previous disgrace on the Heavenly Path was a minor embarrassment seen by a few, this was a lifelong shame, an indelible mark on her brilliant future.

    Even if she ascended to immortality in the future, this dark history of being punched in her pretty face and reduced to tears in front of an audience would be a tale even dogs would shake their heads at.

    "Yun Xiao!" Jiang Yue screamed, her voice tearing through the sky like a rending fabric, a blend of fury and humiliation. She screeched, struggling to get up. "Why... why the face of all ces?"

    "Alright, not the face then." With a nonchnt swagger, Yun Xiao approached, his fist finding a new target in her abdomen.

    "Ah!" Jiang Yue instantly curled up like a shrimp thrown onto a hot pan, her face turning an unnatural shade of purple, her mouth foaming. A pitiful cry of agony escaped her as she copsed to the ground, her finger trembling as it pointed at Yun Xiao, her eyes finally giving birth to an endless fear.

    The young man in white nced at his fist, then back at her, his gaze filled with utter contempt. "Not bad at putting on airs. But can you even fight?" Yun Xiao remarked, his voice a cold and mocking sneer.

    Jiang Yue nearly choked on her rage. Yes, she couldn''t fight physically. But she was a talented Immortal of the ages! "I will have my revenge! Just wait one month, I¡ª"

    <i>THWACK! </i>Before she could finish, Yun Xiao''s footnded on her mouth, silencing her bitter vow. "In a month, grass will be growing on your grave!" he quipped, his voice carrying an air of undeniable finality.

    Yun Xiao eyed her with an icy detachment, his arm wielding the Sword Soul with amanding grace. With swift yet deliberate strokes, he shed across Jiang Yue''s legs, each de biting deep, exposing the cruel white of bone amidst the angry flesh.

    "AH! AH¡ª" Jiang Yue''s cries were agonized, tearing through the silence like shattering ss. A cold sweat broke across her trembling body, wracked by convulsions of pain.

    With a contemptuous flick of his wrist, Yun Xiao ripped open her garments and yanked her up only to cast her down before him, forcing her to her knees in a degrading disy of dominance. "You seem to have a fondness for making people kneel, don''t you? Fine!" he spat with venomous triumph. "Now it''s your turn to kneel before me! If you dare move, I''ll carve you piece by piece!"

    Despair engulfed Jiang Yue, drowning her in a tidal wave of hopelessness. "Someone save me!" she howled, her voice breaking into a hysterical sob. But before she could even finish her desperate plea, a chill caressed her tongue, stopping her words in their tracks. The azure Sword Soul hovered dangerously at the tip of her tongue, a grim reminder of the razor-thin line between life and death.

    "I''m...I''m really going to die," Jiang Yue realized, the sickening realization settling like a cold stone in her stomach. The bone-chilling fear spread like wildfire within her, paralyzing her until her very guts felt like they were twisted in knots. Silenced, she remained kneeling, a pathetic, trembling mess before Yun Xiao, hardly daring to breathe, lest she invoked further wrath.

    All around, the Conve Mountain echoed with a haunting silence, a testament to the chilling scene unfolding before them. It wasn''t that no one wanted to save Jiang Yue, but from the very outset, Yun Xiao had her life precariously bnced on the edge of his sword.

    The once proimed peerless beauty with heavenly talents now faced a gruesome end, a loss so devastating that not even theplete annihtion of Yun Xiao and the entire Sword Pavilion could ever hope topensate. The crowd was rooted to the spot, their faces pale masks of shock.

    In the midst of this eerie silence, Yun Xiao suddenly turned, his piercing gaze sweeping over the gathering of disciples from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks. "Wish to save her, do you?" he taunted with a cold, derisive smile. "Here''s your chance. Step right up, one by one."

    His strategy was clear as day. By holding Jiang Yue hostage, he intended to lure her fellow disciples into his trap, rapidly umting Sword Points in the process.

    "Hurry up!" Yun Xiao called out arrogantly, an audacious grin splitting his face. "I''ve umted over forty Sword Points, temporarily securing the top position. Isn''t anyone itching to contest my lead in this duel?"

    The crowd of disciples bristled with indignation, their anger boiling over at his audacious taunts.

    "He''s too arrogant!"

    "He has a death wish!"

    "I''ll go first!"

    ...

    A disciple from the First Sword Peak stepped forward defiantly, his body adorned with three Sword Points, indicating his standing in the Late Dragon Spring Realm.

    "Yun Xiao, I am¡ª" <i>THWACK! </i>His promation was abruptly cut short as a sword pierced through his forehead, a gruesome eruption of blood marking the abrupt end of his bravado. <i>THUD! </i>His body hit the ground, legs twitching in a grotesque dance of death, his life snuffed out in a single, merciless stroke.

    With a casual flick of his hand, Yun Xiao summoned the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which trembled violently and exuded a menacing glow in his grasp. He raised an eyebrow, sweeping a disdainful nce over the crowd before he chuckled coldly, his voice ringing out like the crisp sound of breaking ice. "That was just the first! Who''s next to die?"

    "Me!" Before the word was fully out from the crowd below, a burst of blood erupted from the speaker''s mouth. <i>SPLAT! </i>Blood sttered violently across the stage. Dead. Another body crumpled to the ground with a dull thud.

    "I''d advise you all..." Yun Xiao sneered, turning back around, his voice echoing with a menace that froze the crowd to their core. "If you haven''t even reached the Divine Sea Realm, then don''t fucking dare to speak in my presence!"

    <i>THUD! </i>With brutal force, Yun Xiao''s foot found Jiang Yue''s face, grinding it into the ground. Jiang Yue didn''t dare resist, her pitiful sobs echoed through the mountain, as her dignity scattered like dust in the wind.

    "What kind of genius are you? Dead geniuses don''t count, understand?" Yun Xiao taunted, staring down at her cruelly.

    "I¡ªI understand, Brother Yun Xiao..." Jiang Yue wept miserably, the pinnacle of humiliation evident in her tear-stricken face. Once the goddess of the First Sword Peak, adored and revered by everyone, now was trampled upon by Yun Xiao, like she was nothing more than a swine.

    "Junior Sister Jiang!" The disciples from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks were engulfed in a fury too immense to contain. Among them, several Sword Venerable disciples who had reached the Divine Sea Realm, along with the Top Swords of various Sword Peaks, gathered, their eyes zing with uncontained wrath.

    "Yun Xiao, if you can walk away alive today, we''ll shatter our swords and kill ourselves!" Many of Ye Tiance''s disciples stepped forward. Their vow reverberated in the air, echoing the sentiment of the numerous disciples present, a mix of anger and anticipation crackling in the atmosphere.

    Only three days ago... Yun Xiao had stood on the Sword Inheritance tform, beneath the scrutinizing gaze of these very geniuses, these Sword Cultivators who had then deemed him unworthy of even a nce.

    But now... They all unsheathed their Sword Souls, showcasing their robust magic power that shook the heavens and filled the air with an overwhelming murderous intent. Yun Xiao had not only trampled on their revered goddess of the First Sword Peak, but he was also now challenging them, mocking their dignity and inciting their wrath.

    <i>CRACK CRACK! </i>Jiang Yue''s face split under Yun Xiao''s relentless trampling. Yun Xiao then turned his eyes to the group of self-righteous Sword Venerable disciples and Top Swords.

    "What are you all staring at? Come up here and meet your death! A bunch of worthless trash!" Yun Xiao taunted, his voice echoing ominously across the mountain.

    The disciples red back at him, their teeth grinding in anger, their rage roaring like a wildfire.

    "Destroy him!"

    "Tear him to pieces!!" "Save our Goddess!"

    ...

    And so, the Sword Debate truly began. <i>BOOM! </i>The entire Conve Mountain erupted into mes, setting the stage for an unprecedented battle never before seen in the history of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

 Chapter 025 - No One Escapes Death, Why Not Send Your Disciples on Their Way Early (1)

    <h4>Chapter 025 - No One Escapes Death, Why Not Send Your Disciples on Their Way Early (1)</h4>

    On the elevated tform, a whirlwind of chaos and uproar seemed to manifest in the wake of Yun Xiao''s startling victory over Jiang Yue. The elders of the various prominent Sword Peaks present could hardly believe what unfolded before their eyes, and their united exmations seemed to resonate with the undying echoes of the mountains themselves.

    "No way!"

    "A Dragon Spring Realm defeating a Divine Sea Realm?"

    "Are... are my eyes deceiving me?"

    ...

    The very notion was inconceivable, and none had ever imagined witnessing Jiang Yue''s defeat¡ªnot like this, not so swiftly, and certainly not so utterly! She had been reduced to nothing more than a fledgling chick, being cruelly toyed with in the hands of the white-robed young man, Yun Xiao. The sheer disparity of their power left her utterly defenseless, a mere ything in the face of his might.

    Ye Tiance, whose temperament bore both the sagacity of an oak and the raging force of a river, was the first to react. pping his armrest vehemently, he rose to his feet, his countenance a tempest of swirling emotions.

    "Brother Ye, I shall handle this!" the burly Third Sword Venerable Wu Wu bellowed, his voice echoing like a thunderp amidst the tumultuous murmurs. A fire ignited within him, so fierce it seemed to emanate from his very being. He had been unaware of his son''s situation until just now¡ªcaught unaware amidst the chaotic unfolding of events. A messenger had approached him just as Jiang Yue faced her humiliating defeat, delivering the shocking news of his son, Wu Jianyang, meeting a brutal end at the hands of Yun Xiao.

    A ferocious anger surged within him, a double-edged sword that threatened to consume his very core. Wu Wu''s immense cultivation power threatened to explode, to spiral uncontrobly within his very veins. His face contorted with a rage so vivid, it bore the grotesque visage of a demon, marred further by its gruesome and twisted form.

    Guests were present, including the venerable Elder Fan. Ye Tiance shot a nce at the esteemed guest from the Sea of Swords, gritting his teeth fiercely. As the host, taking matters into his own hands would certainly bring disgrace, a loss of face that would be talked about in hushed tones, whispered behind hidden doors.

    "You handle it, eliminate the threat immediately!" Ye Tiance instructed, the humiliation burning brightly on his countenance, akin to a venomous insect skittering across his face.

    The Sixth Sword Venerable, Yao Manxue, furrowed her brows, a stern reminder echoing through the disarray, "Wu Wu, don''t be foolish, ensure Jiang Yue''s safety first!"

    A cynicalugh resonated amidst the chaos, as if mocking the gravity of the situation. Indeed, Wu Wu might have been hot-headed, but his fury now bore a chilling edge, a determined resolve that promised vengeance.

    With a thunderous roar, he led a group of elders from the Third Sword Peak, temporarily excusing themselves, and advanced towards the sword dueling tforms from the side. Although there were many elders present to maintain order during these duels, they now found themselves hesitant to act, their movements paralyzed by the precarious situation Jiang Yue found herself in.

    Her life was too precious to risk. It fell on the formidable Wu Wu to restore order, to exact punishment for the transgressions that had unfolded. His fiery arrival seemed to engulf the arena, a zing behemoth descending with a fury that promised retribution.

    "You insolent whelp! Daring to kill my son and humiliate Jiang Yue! It seems you have no intention of leaving this ce alive!" Wu Wu''s words, seething with anger, reverberated through the surroundings, an open deration of war against Yun Xiao.

    Wu Wu cared little for rules or decorum at this point. His descent on the battlefield sent a group of young Sword Cultivators flying, his imposing figure reminiscent of a fearsome beast ame, his eyes burning with a fiery intensity as he fixed his gaze on Yun Xiao.

    From his stance, his intentions were crystal clear. He was prepared to unleash his Flying Sword, to carry out a judgment most brutal, without further discourse.

    "The Third Sword Venerable has arrived!" The crowd erupted in murmurs, the atmosphere tinged with a palpable sense of impending doom and anticipation.

    "Yun Xiao is done for!" This was the chilling consensus. The onlookers hadn''t fathomed that a Sword Venerable would intervene in the duels, much less with intentions to kill a disciple. Such an event was unprecedented, leaving everyone in awe and fear.

    Just when the audience resigned to witnessing a bloodbath, several figures darted across, forming a solid barrier before the approaching throng from the Third Sword Peak. Leading this unexpected intervention was a young woman, an ethereal presence amid the chaos. Dressed in a flowing ck gown, her skin was pale as the moon, her hair cascading like a waterfall, and her eyes mirrored the luminosity of a moonlit night. An audible gasp of recognition fluttered through the crowd, "It''s Senior Sister Zhao from the Sword Pavilion!" followed closely by, "Last year''s champion of the Conve!"

    Behind her, the resilient remnants of the Sword Pavilion''s elders gathered, apanied by Grandpa Qin. Their steadfast stance was a testament to their determination to protect their sect''s honor.

    A furious Wu Wu, the Third Sword Venerable, shot venomous res at Zhao Xuanran, the tension escting as the oppressive force of his rank bore down on her. With fiery eyes, he bellowed, "Get lost!"

    Standing her ground, Zhao Xuanran retorted, her voice as cold as ice, "The one who should leave is you, Wu Wu."

    The confrontation escted as Wu Wu advanced, his imposing figure exuding a natural air of dominance, further fueled by his rage. "How dare a junior like you disrespect your elders? Are you not afraid of being punished by the sect rules?"

    Withposure that starkly contrasted with Wu Wu''s livid state, Zhao Xuanran revealed her trump card, "I''m also the acting head of the Sword Pavilion." Her piercing gaze locked onto him, "Moreover, the Eight Swords Conve is in session. As a Sword Venerable, you brazenly intrude on this sacred dueling ground. What are you nning?"

    Caught off guard, Wu Wu found himself momentarily lost for words, his rage momentarily fizzling under her calm scrutiny.

    Zhao Xuanran seized the opportunity to press on, her wordsced with an edge that left no room for rebuttal, "We have esteemed guests here today. If your Third Sword Peak wants to disgrace the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, you''ll have to get through me first. Wu Wu, take your people and leave this ce before you make an even greater fool of yourself!"

    Ignoring hermand, Wu Wu brandished a token, his voice raising in anger, "I am a Vice Chairman of the Eight Swords Assembly, in charge of enforcing the rules at the entire Conve! There''s been a vition today, and if you try to stop me, you''ll be arrested as well!"

    Undeterred, Zhao Xuanran calmly inquired, "Then tell me, how has Yun Xiao vited any rules?"

    Wu Wu''sposure crumbled, and in his anger, he blurted out the true source of his rage, "He killed my son!"

    A mockingughter escaped Zhao Xuanran''s lips, but it soon turned into a fierce retort, her eyes tinged with threads of blood from the intensity of her anger, "In these past two years, haven''t enough of our Sword Pavilion disciples died on this dueling ground? Are you saying your people are allowed to kill but not to be killed?"

    "Didn''t you once say, <i>worthless people deserve to die</i>?" In a savage twist, Grandpa Qin threw Wu Wu''s past words back at him. "Your son was worthless; dying on this duel ground is his honor." The sharp counterattack left Wu Wu seething, a plume of smoke nearly visible from his ears.

    Cold and unyielding, Zhao Xuanran added fuel to the fire, "If you can''t handle a loss, then don''t step onto the dueling ground."

    Wu Wu knew he had met his match. His son''s death was a self-inflicted wound, a repercussion of the bitterness that had simmered between their groups for three years, a bitterness that now threatened to boil over into an all-out war.

    With desperation setting in, Wu Wu found a new angle of attack, his finger pointed usingly at the kneeling young woman on the stage, his voice harsh as he dered, "Jiang Yue has already been defeated, her sword taken away, but this Yun Xiao still threatens her life, a clear vition of the rules! He must be punished!"

    But Zhao Xuanran was ready, her response swift and pointed, "Isn''t it a greater vition for Jiang Yue to chase down and kill someone off the stage after they surrendered?"

    Wu Wu felt the pressure of Zhao Xuanran''s piercing gaze, a gaze that refused to waver even under the oppressive presence of a Sword Venerable. ncing over at Jiang Yue, he knew any chance of her winning the Sword Debate now had evaporated like smoke. Wanting to settle this situation quickly, he gritted his teeth and said, "Yes. Jiang Yue vited the rules first But she''s already been defeated, and your disciple from the Sword Pavilion is out of danger now! Now, the main priority should be dealing with Yun Xiao''s vition of the rules and letting the Sword Debate carry on normally!"

    Zhao Xuanran, however, was relentless, "So, how do you n to deal with it? Shouldn''t Jiang Yue be punished more severely for her actions?"

    With cold dismissal, Wu Wu responded, "That is none of your concern!"

    "How can you use me of showing favoritism and acting against thew when we have an esteemed guest present?" Zhao Xuanran''s voice cut through the tension like a cold de, her eyes brimming with an unyielding and solemn resolve.

    Wu Wu''s patience frayed to its breaking point, the veins on his neck pulsating prominently. "He broke the rules! I intend to enforce thew. Step aside, or face the consequences with him!" he threatened, his voice reaching a crescendo of frustration.

    Undeterred, Zhao Xuanran maintained her ground, her stance unwavering amidst the swirling gusts. "He challenged someone fair and square on the dueling tform. No rules have been broken," she retorted.

    "There is still someone on the dueling tform!" Wu Wu roared.

    Zhao Xuanran shot back, "That''s her choice to stay there, what does it have to do with my Junior Brother Yun? Why don''t you tell her to get lost yourself?"

    "Y-you...!" Flustered and infuriated, Wu Wu nced upward. There she was, Jiang Yue, her legs soaked in blood, unable to move, let alone descend from the tform on her own ord. A realization struck him, and with a surge of determination, he dered, "Then I shall bring her down myself!"

    His focus shifted, prioritizing the preservation of the unparalleled genius thaty injured on the stage. Before his resolve could transition into action, a cold and stern voice rang out, stopping him in his tracks.

    "Stay where you are!" Zhao Xuanran warned, positioning herself defiantly before him once more, her eyes emanating a grave warning. "If you dare step onto that dueling tform, I won''t hesitate to suspect that you''re settling a personal vendetta under the guise of public duty."

    Wu Wu''sugh was a blend of scorn and disbelief. "Quite the silver tongue you have there," he sneered, unwilling to entertain her words any longer.

    With a dismissive gesture, he aimed to bypass her, to soar into the sky and make his way to the dueling tform. But before he could ascend, a sternmand resonated from behind him. "I told you to stay put!"

    A sense of impending doom washed over him, a cold and murderous energy locking onto him, chilling him to the bone. Panic seized him as he grounded himself hurriedly, spinning around to face the source of the ominous feeling.

    There stood Zhao Xuanran, her countenance icy as she regarded him with a steely gaze. Nestled within her palm was a miniature sword, a mere two inches in length, resembling bone more than metal. It radiated an energy both simr and vastly different from a Sword Soul, a sensation that sent shivers down Wu Wu''s spine.

    "A Sword Heart!" he eximed, the color draining from his face as he staggered back, a cold sweat breaking across his brow.

 Chapter 026 - No One Escapes Death, Why Not Send Your Disciples on Their Way Early (2)

    <h4>Chapter 026 - No One Escapes Death, Why Not Send Your Disciples on Their Way Early (2)</h4>

    The surrounding spectators were stunned, a collective gasp rising from the crowd. The younger individuals amongst them wore expressions of confusion, unfamiliar with the concept of a Sword Heart.

    An older spectator lent his voice to the conversation, enlightening everyone on the enigmatic term. "The so-called Sword Heart is formed when a Sword Cultivator, at the brink of death, extracts the bone harboring their Sword Soul to condense a Sword Heart. It harbors thest killing intent of the Sword Cultivator, a one-time shield typically used to safeguard their descendants."

    This revtion incited a flurry of questions and remarks, an audible murmur spreading through the assembly as they grappled with the gruesome and painful nature of the process, and its ultimate purpose.

    In the simplest of terms, the Sword Heart embodied the fervent wish of an elder to shield their younger generations, even if it meant enduring agonizing pain, a testament to their zing love andmitment to their kin''s wellbeing.

    In this dramatic moment, the item that appeared in Zhao Xuanran''s hand was indeed a Sword Heart, a potent symbol of familial devotion and sacrifice.

    A desperate and sweaty Wu Wu stammered, "Whose Sword Heart is that?"

    Zhao Xuanran''s hands trembled ever so slightly as she gripped the piece of legacy her grandfather had bequeathed upon her¡ªa Sword Heart forged from his very bone marrow, a final act of supreme sacrifice and love. Her voice, tinged with a cocktail of emotions¡ªdefiance, pride, and a hint of sorrow¡ªrang clear, "It belonged to my grandfather."

    As the words escaped her lips, a ripple of shock spread through the audience. The usually imperturbable Wu Wu stepped back, his face losing color at the revtion. Whispers erupted amongst the crowd, a buzz of wonder, concern, and calcting assessments filled the air.

    "The previous Sect Master actually extracted his bone to create a Sword Heart!"

    "Could it potentially y the Third Sword Venerable?"

    "But, it might have lost its potency over time..."

    "But clearly, the Third Sword Venerable isn''t willing to take that bet!"

    Indeed, Wu Wu''s bravado seemed to have evaporated at the mention of Zhao Xuanran''s grandfather, a figure clearly steeped in formidable reputation. Frankly, being stonewalled by her to this point was already a humiliating affair.

    Gathering his wits about him, Wu Wu proposed a solution, clearly attempting to salvage some dignity, "Fine! I won''t go up myself. I''ll just call someone else to retrieve Jiang Yue. That should be eptable, right?"

    Zhao Xuanran''s eyes held a cial chill, a firm resolve emanating from her slender frame. She wasn''t about to let Wu Wu off easily. "No deal. I don''t care who it is, anyone who steps up will be suspected of harboring vendettas against my Junior Brother Yun. This Sword Heart won''t hesitate to annihte you, Wu Wu!"

    Wu Wu could feel his patience fraying at the edges. He was at a loss, cornered and outmaneuvered. He raised his voice, a desperate bid to regain some semnce of control, "Then what do you propose?"

    Her solution was straightforward, tinged with the very essence of her audacious spirit. "Simple. Let the duel continue. Yun Xiao will hold his ground. Whoever defeats him gets to retrieve Jiang Yue from the stage. What say you, Wu Wu? Are the disciples from your First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks nothing but a bunch of weaklings? Last year, not a single person among you waspetent enough, and I easily clinched first ce stepping over your feeble attempts. Have you lost even the courage to fight a fair battle this year?" Her eyes sparkled with deep contempt, her words ringing with a disdain so profound it stirred a wave of anger among at least half the audience present on Conve Mountain.

    Driven to a corner, Wu Wu''s pride ignited a me of resentment and determination. His roar echoed across the mountain, a rallying cry to his disciples. "Fine! Let the Sword Debate resume! Win, and earn the right to save Jiang Yue."

    Turning to Zhao Xuanran, his voice held a warning, a final attempt to assert authority, "I hope Yun Xiao knows better than to harm Jiang Yue any further. If he dares, no one will be able to save him!"

    Zhao Xuanran threw a look towards the stage, her gaze meeting Yun Xiao''s, a youth in white who had remained silent and stoic throughout the heated exchange. The moment was fleeting, a silent exchange of trust and resolve before Yun Xiao shifted his focus onto the hundreds of young Sword Cultivators arrayed before him.

    His voice,ced with an audacity that even outshone Zhao Xuanran, echoed through the gathering, "Two weaklings already met their end. Who''s volunteering to be the third?"

    In that moment, his brash promation painted a vivid canvas of youthful arrogance and bravado, a stark contrast to his mere three days tenure at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Yet, there he stood, a lone warrior wielding his sword with an arrogance that overshadowed even the most illustrious figures, ready to defy the world.

    At the high tform on the other side, a turbulent wave of discontent surged. The face of the First Sword Venerable, Ye Tiance, had already darkened to the hue of a stormy sea, his visage a canvas of brewing discontent. Others exchanged incredulous nces, not having expected such a fiasco to unfold during the Conve. The Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, and Yu Xuanzhou shook their heads in dismay.

    "This Yun Xiao is an absolute trouble ma! Fortunately, I didn''t let this harbinger of bad luck enter the Seventh Sword Peak!" Yu Xuanzhou hastily remarked to Zhang Jian.

    "No worries, he and the Sword Pavilion are a perfect match. Both are teetering at the edge of a cliff!" Zhang Jianmented, his words carrying a hint of dark humor.

    "Do you think the Third Sword Venerable will let this pass? With his temperament, being humiliated in broad daylight, he definitely won''t let it rest by night, right?" Yu Xuanzhou questioned, his voice tinged with concern.

    "Hmm, I once identally witnessed his connections with assassins from outside the sect, scheming and taking down quite a few people within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. This is something the Sword Pavilion is unaware of..." Zhang Jian''s voice trailed off, the gravity of his statement hanging in the air like a dark cloud.

    "I hope that Yun Xiao meets his end soon! That way no one would know I spoke up for him at the Sword Inheritance tform," Yu Xuanzhou murmured, regret apparent in his tone. He felt as if his intestines had turned green from remorse.

    The entire high tform buzzed with whispers and spection.

    "Could this brash youngster from the Dragon Spring Realm actually possess a Dantian talent simr to Ye Guying?" Qian Kun, the Chief Steward of the Spirit Treasure Pavilion, wondered aloud, his voice tinged with curiosity.

    "He seems extremely confident!" The Sword Venerable of the Second Sword Peak, Shangguan Yu, hastily discussed in low tones with the elders around her.

    At that moment, all eyes turned towards the dueling tform that had captured everyone''s attention. Finally, someone stepped forward. The dy wasn''t due to ack of volunteers. On the contrary, many were mbering to face Yun Xiao, their faces flushed in the heatedpetition to be chosen.

    In the end, it was a woman dressed in blue, another personal disciple of the First Sword Venerable, who <i>won</i> the opportunity to seek redemption for the First Sword Peak.

    "Senior Sister Nine, save me!" Jiang Yue burst into tears as soon as she saw the woman in blue making her appearance, her tears flowing freely now. The tears trailed over her battered face, the salt stinging her wounds causing her to grimace in pain. She was a pitiable sight.

    "Don''t worry, Junior Sister. Yourck ofbat experience, being a neer to the Divine Sea Realm, has just given him an advantage," the woman in blue reassured her, her words heavily implying that Yun Xiao, being in the Dragon Spring Realm, was ultimately inferior. Her eyes filled with cold fury as she stepped forward, her gaze fixed firmly on Yun Xiao.

    <i>HUM!</i> The Sword Soul in her hand surged, a torrent of magic power emanating from her as she shouted, "Greenhorn! Standing before you is the Ninth Disciple of the First Sword Venerable, Lan Xiao! My father is the Pce Master of the Sword Arts Pce of the First Sword Peak, and my mother is the Tower Master of the Fortune Tower of the First Sword Peak. There are eighteen of us in the First Sword Peak at the Divine Sea Rea¡ª" Her boast was cut off abruptly as the young man in white lifted his head sharply.

    "Eighteen?" A murderous intent erupted in his eyes. The azure Sword Soul in his hand instantly morphed into a Flying Sword, its nineyer Sword Aura preceding its harsh edge.

    <i>SCREECH! </i>The Flying Sword in his hand shot out explosively, soaring into the sky like a swift swallow, tracing a curvaceous arc in the blink of an eye, slicing through the air with an ear-piercing whistle.

    "Heh!" Lan Xiao scoffed, her Sword Soul also transforming into a Flying Sword, ready to kill. Her smirk held a dark promise, her confidence unshaken despite the unfolding drama. Yet, in the next heartbeat, her eyes bulged in utter disbelief, releasing a heart-wrenching scream that seemed to pierce the heavens.

    "Swallow Tail sh!?" Lan Xiao paled. A disciple who had entered the Azure Spirit Sword Sect three days ago had mastered the notorious Flying Sword Technique, Swallow Tail sh! With just a flicker, it was lethal¡ªa Mid Comet grade sword technique! She couldn''t even begin to track its trajectory!

    <i>PIERCE! </i>Before Lan Xiao could muster another shout, a bloodied hole appeared at her throat, as if a swallow had soared through, leaving devastation in its wake. "Ugh, ugh, ugh..." She stood there, eyes widened in terror, clutching her bloody throat. With stumbling steps, she staggered, eventually tumbling off the dueling tform.

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao didn''t spare her a nce, effortlessly catching the blood-stained Sword Soul in mid-air. A smirk curled at the corners of his lips as he coolly remarked, "Let me correct you, from this moment forth, your First Sword Peak is down to seventeen Divine Sea Realm disciples."

    Without missing a beat, Yun Xiao''s gaze swept across the audience, amanding presence emanating from him, "Next!"

    As those words reverberated like a storm through the crowd, Jiang Yue''s trembling hands instinctively flew to her throat. Although the Flying Sword hadn''t sealed her windpipe, it felt as though an ice spike had prated it, leaving her struggling for breath.

    "Swallow Tail sh? Truly magnificent! And soplex... I don''t think any disciple at the Dragon Spring Realm has ever mastered it before!" Qian Kun uttered, his eyes nearly popping out of their sockets.

    "This disciple couldn''t have just joined the Azure Spirit. He must have been nurtured secretly by the Sword Pavilion for quite some time," Shangguan Yu spected.

    "He might be a sword prodigy. A shame he didn''te to my Spirit Treasure Pavilion!" Qian Kun added, his eyes filled with envy. But the sight of the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone made him heave a sigh of disappointment. Jiang Yue, despite hercklusterbat abilities, possessed god-tier potential that promised a limitless future...

    "Yun! Xiao!" Back on the dueling tform, Yun Xiao didn''t need to provoke anyone further. The nextpetitor swiftly made their entrance.

    A young man garbed in cloud-patterned robes stepped up, his long hair fluttering gracefully in the wind, and his slender figure denoting a handsome visage. However, whenpared to Yun Xiao, who seemed to bear the grace of the Creator Immortal, he appeared somewhat dim,cking any significant luster.

    "The Seventh Disciple of the First Sword Venerable, Yun Tianyi!" A member of the Azure Spirit nobility, his profound background instantly incited fervent cheers from the crowd, his appearance sparking a wave of fanatic hollering.

    "Seventh Senior Brother!" Jiang Yue eximed, tears mingling with snot, her joy uncontainable, oblivious to her disheveled state.

    "Junior Sister Jiang!" Yun Tianyi nced at her battered appearance, his face instantly darkening with rage. His anger was palpable, fixing his icy gaze on Yun Xiao without hesitation.

    <i>HUM! </i>A Sword Soul materialized in his hand, morphing into a three-foot Palm Sword. The zing white longsword boasted sevenyers of Sword Aura, transforming into white electric serpents coiling around it, emitting crackling sounds that echoed ominously. The presence of the Sword Soul stirred the surrounding air, causing massive electric serpents to surge and swirl ominously around him.

    "Mid Comet grade Sword Soul! Lightning Cloud Sword Soul!" A murmur rippled through the crowd as the power hierarchy within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect came into sharp focus. Yun Tianyi wielded a Sword Soul that was second only to the likes of Ye Guying and Zhao Xuanran¡ªan indication of his formidable strength, which exceeded even that of noted Sword Venerable disciples like Lan Xiao and Wang Feng.

    "Senior Brother Yun, cut him down!" a voice shouted from the crowd, setting the stage for the inevitable sh.

    With a steel gaze that could freeze water, Yun Tianyi gripped his electrifying Lightning Cloud Sword Soul, his words cold as he faced Yun Xiao, "You don''t deserve the surname Yun!"

    And with that, the arena erupted into a frenzied storm of swirling energies and shing des. Yun Tianyi moved with the explosive power of a thunderbolt, charging towards Yun Xiao with a furious onught that echoed the roar of thunder and shing lightning. It was the iconic sh Thunder Sword Technique, a low tier Comet grade sword technique but executed with such mastery that it seemed unstoppable.

    Undeterred, Yun Xiao smirked, a mirthless smile that held a universe of disdain. "I don''t deserve the surname Yun, you say?" he remarked, his voice echoing ominously in the charged atmosphere.

    In a swift movement that belied the immense power behind it, Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword transformed into a Palm Sword. It was encased in nineyers of Sword Aura, swirling like a tempest of death around the azure de.

    <i>Azure Lightning Crane! </i>Yun Xiao initiated the first move¡ªThe Mayfly. Indeed, this move mirrored the ephemeral life of a mayfly, a life that sparkled briefly before being extinguished, a poetic testament to his view of the cultivators'' self-portrait when he was still a mortal.

    With a buzzing sound that resembled the desperate flutters of a mayfly, the azure sword lunged forward, azure lightning shing through the air, embodying a spirit unafraid of death, charging with a momentum that brooked no retreat.

    The sword dueling tform echoed with the shing of swords, a symphony of metal singing the songs of war and valor. Yun Tianyi had moved first, but Yun Xiao fought with an even fiercer resolve, his de lighting up with an even higher level of mystery and sharpness. The attack was so powerful that it overpowered Yun Tianyi''s sword in an instant.

    "What?!" Yun Tianyi eximed, his confidence shattering as his sword met Yun Xiao''s. He attempted to utilize the higher grade of his Sword Soul to shatter Yun Xiao''s, a desperate attempt to turn the tide of the battle. "Come on, break!" He hoped to seize victory, but Yun Xiao was not to be underestimated.

    In a whirl of white robes and shing des, Yun Xiao retaliated with a sweeping stroke, his sword colliding with the Lightning Cloud Sword Soul. A deafening sh echoed, the azure lightning meeting white thunder, producing a screeching sound that echoed far and wide.

    Then, with an explosive crash that reverberated across the Conve Mountain, Yun Tianyi''s face morphed into a mask of horror. His Lightning Cloud Sword Soul exploded into shards, which shot towards him, piercing his face and body.

    "Aah¡ª!" Yun Tianyi screamed, his soul seemingly shattering under the dual pain of soul and flesh. His screams of agony pierced the charged atmosphere as he fell to his knees, a bloody mess with a vacant look in his eyes.

    "The Yun Family has no ce for trash like you, understand?" Yun Xiao roared, his voice thundering across the arena, leaving an impression that wouldst a lifetime.

    Yun Tianyi could only respond with a gurgle as ck blood poured from his mouth, his breathing in ragged gasps, his gaze losing focus, the light of life slowly fading away.

    <i>THUD! </i>Yun Xiao sent the figure sprawling with a powerful kick, a human projectile crashing into the surrounding crowd and causing a frantic dispersal.

    "Next! Chop, chop!" Yun Xiao called out, barely sparing a nce at the Sword Points on his body. Just a measly five points for defeating a Divine Sea Realm opponent. Now, his tally was well over fifty¡ªan unbeatable record, yet who would ever say no to more?

    "Are there no Top Swords brave enough to face me?" Yun Xiao taunted, his gaze sweeping over the disciples from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks who stood rooted to the spot, ovee by his overpowering aura. With a unified step backward, they couldn''t conceal their hesitation.

    In their hearts, they had always looked down on Yun Xiao, dismissing him as nothing more than an experienced warrior rather than a true genius. Yet here he was, cutting down their so-called prodigies with the same ease as ughtering chickens.

    For thest three years, the Sword Pavilion disciples had be aughingstock, a synonym for ridicule. Any random disciple from a Sword Peak felt a sense of superiority in front of them. But now, Yun Xiao''s sword had shattered their pride into a thousand pieces, leaving them scrambling to recover their bruised egos.

    "Someone, get up there!"

    "Don''t let him carry on with this arrogance..."

    "He might be powerful now, but give it a few years and he''ll be left in the dust! He dares to offend Jiang Yue and the First Sword Peak like this, not even the Sect Master could save him if he were to return!"

    The disciples, especially those from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks, were furious yet impotent, their anger fueled by their inability to stop him.

    "I''ll do it!" A young man in a violet robe stepped forward, ascending the dueling tform.

    "The Top Sword from the sixth peak, Yao Zijin!"

    "The son of the Sixth Sword Venerable, Yao Manxue!"

    <i>HUM! </i>As Yao Zijin stepped onto the stage, he revealed his Sword Soul with a flourish, Mid Comet grade as well, but with a more powerful Sword Aura¡ªeightyers in total. Though still oneyer shy of matching Yun Xiao''s, it was already higher than most of the elders present.

    "Yao Zijin is currently the top genius of the Sixth Sword Peak!"

    On his ascent, Yao Manxue on the high tform gasped, suddenly standing. Unlike Wu Wu, who had several offspring and could tolerate the loss of one, Yao Zijin was her only son.

    "Will he be alright..." Yao Manxue cast an anxious look towards the First Sword Venerable, Ye Tiance.

    "It''s fine, it''s fine," Ye Tiance assured her with a calm face, "Zijin has mastered a Mid Comet grade sword technique, I''ve been training him for over five years now!"

    To be honest, having witnessed Yun Xiao''s ferocious might, Yao Manxue couldn''t shake off the fear that something untoward might befall her son, even if it were just a minor sword wound. It would still break her heart. Who wouldn''t be frightened by a fugitive on a killing spree? Yun Xiao was clearly intoxicated with his rampage.

    ¡°That Wu Wu is nothing but a waste of space!¡± Yao Manxue muttered under her breath, resentment dripping from her words as the third Sword Venerable was absent.

    Had Wu Wu been capable of handling Yun Xiao directly, wouldn''t all of this have been avoided? This conundrum was equally vexing for Ye Tiance. The root of the issuey in his ambitious endeavor to skyrocket Jiang Yue''s fame to unprecedented heights, resulting in an overflow of prominent guests on this day.

    These were all individuals with significant reputation and influence. Otherwise, even with the resistance from the Sword Pavilion disciples, and despite the humiliation inflicted upon the First Sword Peak, Ye Tiance would have taken some action after losing two of his disciples, instead of being forced to maintain a calm facade in front of Elder Fan. It was absolutely infuriating!

    ¡°The Sword Debate is nearing its end. If Zijin manages to defeat him, he might at least secure the one-thousand-year-old demon bone,¡± Ye Tiance finally spoke, his voice tinged with a desperate gamble.

    At his words, Yao Manxue felt she had no choice but to bet it all on this one fight, which now drew the undivided attention of the masses. Even the normally indifferent disciples from the Second, Fourth, and Fifth Sword Peaks gathered together, whispering among themselves, discussing Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul and his natural talent for swordsmanship.

    Moreover, many guests disyed curious expressions on their faces, particrly the enigmatic Moon Fairy, who observed the unfolding drama with utmost seriousness.

    Meanwhile, on the dueling tform, several elders from the Sword Pavilion stood as stern as sharp des, watching Wu Wu. Then there were others, like Qin Tong and her group, who ignored the intense atmosphere and cheered wholeheartedly for Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun, you''re invincible!¡± Qin Tong eximed, her eyes glistening with tears of fervor.

    ¡°Who dares to say our Sword Pavilion no longer harbors heroes?¡± Cai Maomao shouted with all his might, having just dressed his wounds. The strain aggravated his injuries, causing him to grimace in pain, yet his spirit remained unyielding.

    In that moment, Yun Xiao¡¯s momentum and poprity soared to unprecedented heights, cementing his status as a figure of renown. Whispers circled among the disciples of the Second, Fourth, and Fifth Sword Peaks, doubting if Yao Zijin could truly overpower the young man d in white.

    ¡°Yun Xiao.¡± On the dueling stage, the alluringly handsome Yao Zijin lifted his sharp brows slightly and sneered, ¡°I''m genuinely curious. Standing here today, acting like a desperate fugitive, aren''t you afraid of death?¡±

    In a mocking tone, Yun Xiao retorted, ¡°Let me ask you, as I ughter the chickens of the First Sword Peak here, you willingly offer up your neck, aren''t you afraid of death?¡±

    Yao Zijin burst intoughter, his head shaking in amusement. ¡°Three years! It has been three years, and yet, I have never encountered a Sword Pavilion disciple as arrogant as you!¡±

    ¡°Then make the most of your time and feast your eyes while you still draw breath,¡± Yun Xiao retorted, his words echoing with a chilling premonition: Your death is imminent.

    At his response, Yao Zijin''s face morphed instantly into a mask of icy coldness. ¡°You truly believe you¡¯re invincible, huh?¡± He scoffed, disdain painting his features. ¡°In the path of cultivation, what matters is your background, your power. Leaning on the crumbling Sword Pavilion, with the foolish actions you¡¯ve taken today, you¡¯ve earned a death sentence ten thousand times over!¡±

    ¡°Ten thousand times? Once will suffice for you!¡± Before Yao Zijin could even finish, Yun Xiaounched into action without a word of warning, his sword shing through the air with a resounding ng! A sh of white, followed by a burst of azure light racing forth! The Flying Sword cleaved through the raging winds with a sound so shrill, it could pierce one''s soul.

    "Just going straight for the kill, huh?" Yao Zijin''s anger surged like a raging firestorm. Yun Xiao''s unyielding attitude was nothing less than a tant provocation, an affront he could not tolerate.

    "Violet Moon!" From his hand emerged the formidable Violet Moon Sword Soul, boasting eightyers of Sword Aura. Resembling a violet crescent moon, it was a de that bore more semnce to a scythe than a sword. The sword exuded a surging cold, nefarious energy, its dark aura sweeping across the dueling tform in an overwhelming wave.

    "Swallow Tail sh again!" Yao Zijin''s eyes twitched at the sight, but he quickly regainedposure. After all, he came prepared. <i>One Draw sh! </i>With a furious bellow, he gripped the sword with both hands and lunged forward. His keen eyes, sharpened throughyers of magical waves, locked onto the approaching azure Flying Sword.

    "Break!" He controlled a Mid Comet grade Sword Soul. A Palm Sword was also much sturdierpared to a Flying Sword. In his mind, there was no reason this <i>Green Lotus Sword Soul</i> wouldn''t shatter on impact! His sh was swift, precise, and ruthless, its trajectory viciously fast, showcasing his stature as the Top Sword of the Sixth Sword Peak.!

    <i>KLANG! </i>With a sh of violet light, sparks flew in the air.

    "It hit!" The Palm Sword cleaved the Flying Sword! On the side of the Sixth Sword Peak, many erupted in cheers.

    But in the next instant, their joy turned into shock as they witnessed Yao Zijin''s hands trembling uncontrobly, nearly losing his grip on the sword. Although he had managed to hit the azure Swallow Tail sh, the impact sent him flying, nearly falling off the sword dueling tform. His palms were ripped open, blood spilling profusely from the wounds.

    "What the hell?! This shouldn''t be possible...!" Yao Zijin''s face twisted in shock. Just as he scrambled on the ground, a sensation of impending doom enveloped him. He sprang up frantically! Turning around, he saw Yun Xiao retracting his Flying Sword, rapidly closing the distance between them with an expression of cold indifference.

    Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword transformed into a three-foot long azure de, lunging towards him with lethal intent. It was the Azure Lightning Crane again! Swift! Violent! zing with electric shes! Piercing through with a murderous edge!

    "Die!" Yao Zijin screamed, brandishing his sword for a counterattack. But he was too slow!

    Yun Xiao executed a rapid assault with his Palm Sword. The sequence of attacks flowed smoothly and ferociously, with two continuous stabs. The second, an Azure Lightning Crane thrust, resembled a current of electricity, suddenly reaching Yao Zijin''s face in a heartbeat.

    Yao Zijin''s counterattack met only air. At that moment, his pupils dted in sheer terror, his breath seizing in his throat! Even with his rapid evasion, Yun Xiao managed to follow up with another sword strike, grazing past one of his legs. With a grotesque splurt, the leg was severed, spurting blood in a horrific disy, cascading outside the dueling tform.

    "AGHH!" Yao Zijin fell to the ground, screaming in agony. He clutched his severed leg, his eyes almost popping out of their sockets from the pain, his body convulsing in spasms. In the next blink, Yun Xiao gripped the front of Yao Zijin''s robes, hoisting him up to eye level.

    "So, Yao Zijin." His eyes sparkled with a defiant and arrogant glint. "You say Ick a background and power, huh?" He brought Yao Zijin''s terrified face closer to his, the electrifying energy between them buzzing with an intensity that echoed across the arena.

    "Listen closely," Yun Xiao growled, his voice reverberating with a ferociousness that left no room for doubt. "I am my own background! Alone, I am a force to be reckoned with!" After experiencing death once and resurrecting, he vowed to embody fierceness in this life. Life and death seemed trivial to him. On this journey, any opposition would meet death. For every kill, a victory.

    The weight of his words bore into Yao Zijin, leaving him paralyzed with fear under the demonic gaze of the young man in white robes before him. His bravado shattered, Yao Zijin trembled violently, his voice hoarse from screaming. "Mother, save me... save me...!" His cries were a pitiful symphony of pain and fear, causing a chilling unease to ripple through the crowd.

    The disciples of the Sixth Sword Peak, who were just moments ago cheering for their prodigious Top Sword, now closed their mouths, their lips dry and their necks retracting, overwhelmed by the disy of raw power and dominance.

    "Yun Xiao!!" A formidable woman suddenly appeared on the dueling tform, her presence as overwhelming as a tidal wave. A hum resonated throughout the space as her immense magic power cascaded towards Yun Xiao like a tsunami, ready to engulf him. It was Yao Manxue, the Sixth Sword Venerable, her face contorted in fury and eyebrows furrowed upside down, exhibiting an unimaginable wrath.

    Her son¡¯s minor injuries had been hard for her to bear, but now that he had lost a leg and was being held up like a mere chick in Yun Xiao''s grip, her anger knew no bounds.

 Chapter 027 - No One Escapes Death, Why Not Send Your Disciples on Their Way Early (3)

    <h4>Chapter 027 - No One Escapes Death, Why Not Send Your Disciples on Their Way Early (3)</h4>

    Yao Manxue''s magic power bore down on Yun Xiao, her fiery eyes ring at him as she snarled, each word seething through gritted teeth, "I give you three breaths of time. If you do not release him, I swear I will tear you to pieces!" Her deration sent a shockwave through the crowd. A Vice Chairman of the Eighth Sword Assembly threatening a disciple was no small matter. Who wouldn''t be afraid?

    Cai Maomao uttered in a trembling voice, "Junior Brother Yun, perhaps we should release him?" He knew well that Yun Xiao''s killing spree had already incited a deadly feud with the First Sword Peak. And now Yao Zijin, representing the entire Sixth Sword Peak, bore the brunt of his wrath. Yao Manxue''s intervention was noughing matter.

    "Tear me to pieces?" Yun Xiao echoed, his voice tinged with a dark amusement, showing no sign of backing down from the ferocious Sword Venerable before him. In a moment that seized the attention of the gathered crowd, he suddenly broke into a heartyugh. His amusement was fleeting, though, as his eyes turned to ice a momentter.

    With a flick of his wrist, the sword swung. <i>SWISH SWISH! </i>Yun Xiao unleashed two rapid shes, cleanly severing both of Yao Zijin''s ears. ¡°Well, I suppose I''ll start by cutting your son to pieces!¡± he dered, his voice ringing with a dark sort of mirth that sent shivers down the spines of those who heard it.

    Yao Zijin, both hands clutching his bloody stumps where ears used to be, wailed even louder. The crowd watched, their breaths caught in their throats, all eyes riveted on Yun Xiao.

    To the side, the Third Sword Venerable, Wu Wu, with a frosty expression and a savage tone, admonished, ¡°Zhao Xuanran, Blind Qin, control your man! You know full well how Yao Zijin is to Yao Manxue!¡±

    ¡°And what of it?¡± Yun Xiao interrupted, his voice dripping with disdain. ¡°No matter how important he is, does he get an extra life?¡± With these words, his fist connected solidly with Yao Zijin''s chest. <i>THUMP! </i>A gout of dark blood sprayed from Yao Zijin''s mouth.

    ¡°If you dare to touch him again, I swear, not even the Sword Pavilion backing you will spare you from annihtion!¡± Yao Manxue threatened, her lips nearly bitten through in her fury.

    ¡°Oh, touch him again, you say?¡± Yun Xiao chuckled at the threat, the sound echoing ominously across the arena. <i>SLASH! </i>He swung his sword fiercely. Yao Manxue trembled, her eyes nearly bursting from her skull as she witnessed a head falling andnding before her.

    ¡°There, I did it. What are you going to do about it?¡± Yun Xiao taunted, his voice echoing with a dangerous edge. With a careless flick of his foot, he sent Yao Zijin''s lifeless body flying before cocking his head and offering Yao Manxue a mocking smile.

    ¡°Bastard!¡± Yao Manxue screamed, tears of blood streaming from her eyes.

    ¡°Oh, so now you know what it feels like to lose someone close to you?¡± Yun Xiao remarked with a chilling smile. If he hadn''t acted today, Cai Maomao would have met a grim fate. Over the past few years, the Sword Pavilion had lost many young lives.

    ¡°I don''t want to argue about right or wrong, nor am I interested in moralistic nonsense,¡± Yun Xiao said, his voice resonating with grim resolve. ¡°Killing on this dueling tform is a rule you established. I''m simply ying by your rules. You kill one of mine, I kill one of yours. That''s how the world works, understand?¡±

    ¡°You''re as good as dead!¡± Yao Manxue screamed, her appearance nothing short of demonic, bloodshot eyes filled with rage. Her intent to kill Yun Xiao was clear, but she found her way barred by a woman in a ck gown, holding a sword with a determined grip.

    ¡°Move aside!¡± Yao Manxue snarled.

    ¡°When your disciples killed those from my Sword Pavilion, why didn''t you step aside?¡± Zhao Xuanran retorted with a coldugh.

    ¡°Shut up! Zhao Xuanran, do you realize the magnitude of what you''ve done today? You''re harboring a troublemaker, leading your entire lineage to destruction!¡± Yao Manxue yelled, her voice filled with unchecked fury.

    ¡°Oh, getting angry, are we?¡± Zhao Xuanran taunted with a smirk.

    ¡°You''re courting death!¡± Yao Manxue''s eyes were aze with blood and fire.

    ¡°Who in this world has ever escaped death? In the Sword Pavilion, none of us fear it. Today, my Junior Brother Yun only fought ording to the rules of the Eight Swords Conve. If you wish to throw a tantrum, we of the Sword Pavilion will apany you till the end. Do you really think the mighty main branch of Azure Spirit fears your Sixth Sword Peak?¡± Zhao Xuanran dered, a chilling mist flickering in her eyes.

    "That''s exactly right!" Grandpa Qin''s voice resonated across the venue. "Our Sword Pavilion disciple, Yun Xiao, has been abiding by the rules, fighting fair and square. Who do you think you are to intimidate us?"

    "You people!" The furious roar was all that Yao Manxue could manage before she spat out blood in rage. As she lifted her head, the appalling scene of Yun Xiao holding Jiang Yue by her hair, dragging her forward unfurled before her eyes.

    "How about this for a move?" Yun Xiao taunted with a sardonic grin, gesturing with his sword towards Jiang Yue''s head, his gaze fixed intently on Yao Manxue.

    Yao Manxue, the dignified Sword Venerable of the Sixth Sword Peak, felt herself nearly splitting apart with rage, blood threatening to spill from every facial orifice, as she was taunted by this young man.

    Suddenly, a profound ng resounded across the Conve Mountain, echoing from the Azure Spirit Cauldron. The unexpected sound startled everyone present, their hearts pounding with the dread that another Sword Soul had shattered. Yet they quickly realized that the sound was too resonant to be a Sword Soul explosion. The half-hour mark for the Conve had arrived.

    "The Sword Debate... is over?" A ripple of shock spread through the crowd, disbelief painting their faces. The intense half-hour had flown by in a flurry of breathtaking events. No one had expected time to pass so quickly!

    From the moment Wu Jianyang met his end to Yao Zijin''s mournful death, the participants from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks were utterly bbergasted.

    The booming sound from the giant cauldron caused Yun Xiao to pause momentarily. Then, with a nonchnt shrug and a grin that held a tinge of mockery, he addressed Yao Manxue, "Apologies, but the Sword Debate has concluded. Here I stand, triumphantly on the sword dueling tform, with your son''s head under my foot, iming the championship of this year''s Sword Debate. ording to the Azure Spirit Laws, what authority do you, the Sixth Sword Venerable, have to execute me?"

    The crowd fell into an eerie silence, the weight of Yun Xiao''s words hanging heavy in the air.

    "The thousand-year demon bone and the twenty Dragon Spring Pills were supposed to be for Jiang Yue..."

    "I heard on the Heavenly Path, the five-hundred-year-old demon bone that Ye Guying had meant to give Jiang Yue was also snatched by this guy..."

    "This Yun Xiao is really fierce!"

    Yun Xiao didn''t just luck out. He earned his victory with genuine skill, stepping over the corpses of the First and Sixth Sword Peaks'' disciples, securing more than sixty Sword Points, a good forty points ahead of the runner-up.

    He led by a wide margin, seizing first ce in the Sword Debate!

    "Damn! In terms of prestige,bat, or even in the war of words, Yun Xiao and Senior Sister Zhaopletely dominated those three Sword Peaks!"

    "It''s aplete loss of face..."

    "If I were Yao Manxue, I would die of embarrassment right on the spot!"

    "I wonder what expression the First Sword Venerable is wearing right now... must be quite a sight..."

    The crowd buzzed with animated discussions. Thepetition between the seven major Sword Peaks of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect was notpletely dominated by the First Sword Peak. Conflicting interests and disputes weremon among them.

    With the rise of the First Sword Peak over these past three years, many harbored their resentment, reluctant to voice their anger. Yet now, as the peak''s prestige faltered, those who had suppressed their fury seized the opportunity to ridicule with gusto. Aplete turnaround had unfolded. In just half an hour, Yun Xiao had etched an indelible impression across the entire Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    A naive youngster? Sorry, but what they were dealing with was a deadly figure draped in white¡ªa ruthless yet charismatic force to be reckoned with. This form of charisma naturally drew people in, especially during his violent killings. Numerous female disciples of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect were spellbound, their hearts pounding wildly at his divine visage.

    It was simple, really! While the world was teeming with beauties, there was only one Creator Immortal in millions of years. Even if only a shred of his skin remained, it was the epitome of perfection in the human world.

    Before him, the likes of Wu Wu and Yao Manxue¡ªdespite being stronger elders¡ªfound themselves utterly dwarfed in presence.

    "After all, Yun Xiao hasn''t really broken any rules!" someone remarked.

    "Stepping on Jiang Yue and killing her senior brothers and sisters might seem disrespectful, but the Sword Pavilion has endured too much humiliation over the years..."

    It was precisely because of this, coupled with the fact that Yun Xiao held Jiang Yue''s life in his hands, that despite Yao Manxue''s raging fury that brought her to the brink of a breakdown, she found herself powerless amidst the gathered crowd and the watchful eyes of the guests.

    "Esteemed Sword Venerables, you both are members of the Eight Swords Assembly, aren''t you?" Yun Xiao looked down, a yful smile ying on his lips. The Eight Swords Assembly, a temporary organization constituted to oversee the Conve, had essentially be his yground.

    Ye Tiance headed the assembly, supported by three Vice Chairmen¡ªWu Wu, Yao Manxue, and Ye Guying. In Ye Guying''s absence, the responsibilities fell squarely on Wu Wu and Yao Manxue''s shoulders.

    Holding onto Jiang Yue''s hair, Yun Xiao grinned. "My Junior Sister Jiang just mentioned to me that she''s quite eager to know today''s champion of the Sword Debate. Could you both announce it loudly for her?

    "Make sure to raise your voice a bit. She''s having trouble hearingtely, might not catch it otherwise," he added with a smirk, giving Jiang Yue''s hair a slight tug, causing her to whimper in pain.

    Jiang Yue feared death immensely. Up till now, she remained a peerless talent, and her death would mean a significant loss. "Spit it out already!" she snapped at Wu Wu and Yao Manxue, her temper ring.

    Wu Wu and Yao Manxue exchanged a look.

    "With Zhao Xuanran possessing a Sword Heart and the Sword Pavilion''s Zhao Jianxing still having a killing power left, sooner orter, both will be annihted. There''s no need to..." Wu Wu voiced his apprehensions, wary of escting the matter before the gathered guests.

    "Enough, make the announcement!" Yao Manxue couldn''t bring herself to lower her gaze, for doing so would force her to witness her son''s despondent, unwilling death stare. Tears streamed unbridled from her eyes, a silent river of sorrow etched across a face that had seen too much tragedy.

    Meanwhile, Wu Wu gritted his teeth so hard they could''ve turned to dust. The sense of humiliation choked him, stealing away his ability to breathe freely, let alone voice his discontent.

    The two of them bore witness to the merciless ughter of their offspring¡ªone at the dawn of this nefarious saga, and the other at its dreadful climax. Standing helpless amidst the ring irony of their predicament was a cruelty that surpassed all others.

    Mustering every ounce of dignity left in him, Wu Wu projected his voice as loud as he could, announcing the deration that singed his very soul. "This year''s champion of the Sword Debate is... the Sword Pavilion''s Yun Xiao!" After the words fled from his mouth, a surge of anger threatened to rupture his chest, a ballooning storm of fury desperate to find release.

    Wu Wu and Yao Manxue''s increasing rage, however, only served to intensify Yun Xiao''s exhration. It was the essence of a delightful vendetta, a straightforward, primalw governing their world. <i>You kill mine, and I kill yours! </i>It was as straightforward as that!

    The proceedings were far from over though. Yun Xiao held Jiang Yue firmly with one hand while extending the other towards Wu Wu, his voice booming across the grounds with a cocky bravado. "I''ve heard that this year''s Sword Debate prize is the skull of a thousand-year-old Demon Emperor, isn''t that so? Hand it over, if you please!"

 Chapter 028 - Dream of the Azure Spirit Cauldron!

    <h4>Chapter 028 - Dream of the Azure Spirit Cauldron!</h4>

    In a venomous re, Wu Wu bore into Yun Xiao, the biting coldness of his fury palpable. "The rewards of the Eight Swords Conve will be distributed together, after the conclusion of the event¡ªtomorrow!" he growled, his voice ringing with a kind of restrained fury that threatened to spill over at any moment.

    The Sword Debate was the event of today, but tomorrow was the Grand Conve¡ªa team battle of monumental significance. It was the event that would dictate the resources allocated to a sword lineage, including the all-important Azure Spirit Cauldron. The possession of this cauldron would not only attract a vibrant crowd to the Sword Pavilion but also revitalize it, ushering in a new era of growth and prosperity. It was the catalyst that could bring back those who had abandoned the Pavilion, having lost hope over thest two years.

    Yun Xiao furrowed his brows at Wu Wu''s announcement. "Can''t it be handed over today?" he questioned, a glint of impatience in his eyes.

    "Nonsense! Absolutely not!" Wu Wu replied, his voice thick with anger.

    It was indeed unfortunate. Yun Xiao had harbored hopes of acquiring the thousand-year-old demon bone and Dragon Spring Pills today, further bolstering his strength for tomorrow''s challenges¡ªperhaps even pushing his limits to new heights. Time was of the essence, and there were still several top disciples he hadn''t faced, including the Top Swords of the First and Third Sword Peaks, who were undoubtedly stronger than Yao Zijin. He hadn''t fully enjoyed the thrill of the battle, but rules were rules, and the prizes were to be awarded tomorrow.

    With a cold,manding tone, Wu Wu said, "Yun Xiao, release her."

    Expecting further argument from Yun Xiao, the crowd was taken aback when heplied readily. Turning to Jiang Yue, whose face he held firmly in his grasp, he asked, "Do you have anything to say?"

    Jiang Yue shook her head vigorously, fear dancing wildly in her evasive eyes. "N-no..."

    "Do you know why you''re still alive today?" Yun Xiao continued, his voice echoing with an eerie resonance.

    She shook her head again, her inner voice screaming that she was spared because she faced an unparalleled Immortal genius¡ªa figure so monumental that opposing him meant certain death. But fear choked her, the words dying in her throat, reced by an apprehensive silence that feared retribution.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, a sound tinged with a dark amusement. "I bet you''re thinking that in not too long, I''ll be nothing more than dust in your eyes."

    "No, I wouldn''t dare..." Jiang Yue''s voice trembled, the tears welling up once again as she faced the raw, unbridled power that was Yun Xiao.

    He shrugged nonchntly. "No matter, preserve that mindset of yours, continue to drift in your delusions." With a flick of his wrist, he flung her from the dueling tform, her figure tumbling gracelessly down the steps.

    In his heart, a coldughter echoed ominously. "During tomorrow''s Sword Soul assessment, you''ll be no better than a dog, living only till the day I ughter Ye Guying." Yun Xiao reveled in the thought of watching her continue to y the fool, anticipating the day her lofty illusions would shatter, revealing the cruel reality.

    "If you don''t die a tragic death, having experienced the harshest cruelties of the human realm, then my resurrection would have been meaningless!" He mused to himself, his only worry being that Ye Guying''s return would be dyed, rendering Jiang Yue''s head rotten and unfit for offering to his people in the Cloud Nation.

    After all, making two trips back just to make an offering was simply too repugnant, even for him, considering his three-month journey to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    "Master!" The moment Jiang Yue escaped Yun Xiao''s grasp, a tidal wave of suppressed fury erupted within her, engulfing her heart in a roaring torrent of rage and indignation. She ran off to see the First Sword Venerable!

    Yun Xiao spared her no more than a passing nce, his interest already waning as he made his way towards the group of Sword Pavilion members..

    "Halt!" Wu Wumanded once more, his voice echoing across the dueling ground.

    Yun Xiao paused, an eerie calm settled over him. "Yes, Sword Venerable?" he asked nonchntly.

    "Prepare yourself for tomorrow''s Grand Conve. The Azure Spirit Cauldron originally belonged to the Sword Pavilion. Reiming it could restore your Sword Pavilion''s former glory, enticing many to return..." Wu Wu said insipidly, not even bothering to hide his real intentions.

    A cold, dismissive voice cut through Wu Wu''s words. It was Zhao Xuanran from the sidelines, her disdain palpable. "You''re getting ahead of yourself. The Sword Pavilion has no intention of participating in the Grand Conve this year."

    Wu Wu scoffed, the sound echoing like a sharp knife across a grinding stone. "Oh, and why''s that? Afraid of repeatingst year''s miserable defeat? Where''s the backbone that the Sword Pavilion was once known for, Zhao Xuanran?"

    Zhao Xuanran''s response was tinged with biting sarcasm, "Oh, it''s simple, really. Why don''t you try taking on a hundred and twentypetitors by yourself?"

    Grandpa Qin hurriedly pulled Yun Xiao aside. His voice was a quiet, urgent whisper in Yun Xiao''s ear. "Know when to quit, young one. Don''t fall into their trap."

    The Grand Conve, a tournament of the eight sword factions, loomed ominously over them. Yun Xiao nced over his shoulder, where Cai Maomao and only six others stood. The grim reality hung heavily in the air. They were painfully outnumbered, a ring truth that needed no verbal acknowledgment.

    "Given today''s events, should you choose to participate in the Grand Conve, you''ll be targeted by the First Sword Peak right from the outset. They''ve been dreaming of your downfall. Should you meet your end, even the first-ce prize from today''s duel would go to the second-ce, Ye Tianyuan" Grandpa Qin warned.

    A puzzled furrow appeared on Yun Xiao''s brow. "Who is this Ye Tianyuan?"

    "He is the biological son of Ye Tiance and also his fifth disciple, leading the First Sword Peak this year. A formidable adversary, already in the Mid Divine Sea Realm. He carved a path of victory on the other side of the Conve Mountain today," Grandpa Qin exined, his voice heavy with caution.

    A moment of understanding shed in Yun Xiao''s eyes, followed by a firm nod. "Got it!"

    Grandpa Qin turned his gaze towards the colossal azure cauldron stationed at the center of the arena. The sorrow in his eyes was almost tangible as he let out a deep, burdened sigh. It was more than just an artifact. It was a symbol of the Sword Pavilion''s century-old glory, holding countless tales within its enigmatic depths.

    Sadly, that source of pride had been seized, a gaping wound in the honor of the Sword Pavilion. The cauldron was a beacon of youthful zest, ambitions, and dreams, a part of Grandpa Qin''s very soul, a fragment of what was once an era of brilliance. Yet, now it stood there, unreachable, a constant reminder of their shame and humiliation.

    "Child, surviving and growing stronger is what truly matters. You bear no obligation to carry the weight of Sword Pavilion''s past or future. Focus on your path forward," Grandpa Qin said, his voice tinged with an enduring warmth and wisdom.

    Yun Xiao nodded solemnly. "As you say, Grandpa Qin."

    A sudden voice chimed in, stirring them from their somber reflections. It was Zhao Xuanran, dering, "Time to return home."

    Yun Xiao lifted his eyes, settling them on a woman dressed in a flowing ck gown. Under the gentle caress of the sun, her eyes seemed to have softened considerably, transforming into pools of tenderpassion.

    "Senior Sister Zhao?"

    "Mhm?"

    "Do you have any wine?"

    "Huh?" Zhao Xuanran stared at him, stunned. Then, a thick vein popped on her forehead. Like hell she was going to answer that in public!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After the folks from the Sword Pavilion departed, Wu Wu and Yao Manxue exchanged frosty nces, the coldness in their eyes colliding viciously.

    "Since they won''t be participating in the Grand Conve tomorrow, if they manage to lie low for just one day, the thousand-year-old demon bone might actually end up in the hands of that wretch." Yao Manxue''s voice was as cold as a winter storm, bearing an eerie echo that lingered.

    "We can''t let him see tomorrow then," Wu Wu retorted with a sinister smile that seemed to chill the surrounding air.

    "You have a way?" Yao Manxue raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued amidst the chilly conversation.

    "I know a Demonic Cultivator, a top-notch assassin who leaves no trace. As long as they''re paid, they''ll get the job done." Wu Wu''s eyes flickered with murderous intent, the dark glint reflecting his savage n.

    "Where?"

    "Right in Azure Spirit."

    "Can it be arranged for tonight?"

    "Yes, it can!"

    "Good! I''ll go seek approval from the First Sword Venerable."

    Yao Manxue only took a few steps before she paused, a gruesome sight catching her eye¡ªthe lifeless body of her son. Her eyes red with a vicious murderous intent as she turned back to add, "Make it clear to your contact that if the target doesn''t meet a sufficiently gruesome end, they won''t see a penny!"

    "Obviously," Wu Wu replied with a snarl, his expression painting a vivid picture of cruelty.

    Looking at the Sword Pavilion members soar away on their Sovereign Swords, a heavy silence enveloped the spectators on the high tform, a silence filled with shock and apprehension that seemed to hang in the air.

    Yu Xuanzhou, a stout and burly figure, remained silent for a long moment, his face a study inplex emotions. Finally, he let out a sigh, a mixture of frustration and disappointment.

    "That young fellow really doesn''t know the extent of his own mortality, huh!" He shook his head repeatedly, his perplexity clear in his expression. "And those people from the Sword Pavilion! Wouldn''t it be better to keep a low profile and beg for mercy to save their own lives? I just don''t understand!"

    The Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, shot him a fierce re, berating, "Idiot! You better hurry and gather some gifts, then go apologize to Yao Qingqian a few more times!"

    "Yes, yes..." Yu Xuanzhou felt even more regret, his face a mask of despair.

    "Make sure to distance yourself from that youngster as much as possible. If the First Sword Venerable suspects that we have any connection with the Sword Pavilion, do you have any idea how many of our disciples might meet their end tomorrow?" Zhang Jian ranted, his voice rising in anger and anxiety.

    "Yes, yes! I''ll go rify things with Yao Qingqian right away," Yu Xuanzhou nodded fervently, looking much like a chastened chicken. His heart was sinking, a mess of sadness and regret.

    On another side, Qian Kun, the Chief Steward of the Spirit Treasure Pavilion, rose to his feet, approaching the Second Sword Venerable, Shangguan Yu, with a smile that hid a hint of cunning. "Dear Yu, this evening my Spirit Treasure Pavilion is setting up a betting event at the Sword Cloud Walk on the rankings for tomorrow''s Grand Conve. Do remember to have your disciplese and support the event."

    "Do you always stir the pot every year?" Shangguan Yu retorted, her face disying a youthful vigor despite being past her fifties.

    "That''s what you call fanning the mes to add fuel to the fire. The bigger the fire, the bigger the business!" Qian Kun winked, leaning closer to Shangguan Yu and whispering, "Due to your rtionship with Zhao Jianxing, will you be looking out for the elderly and young ones at the Sword Pavilion?"

    Caught off guard, Shangguan Yu shot him a re, warning tersely, "Just shut up."

    Qian Kun gave an awkward smile, hastily changing his approach. "I understand, the First Sword Peak already has a significant advantage in numbers, not to mention the prodigious talents like Jiang Yue who has surpassed the Comet grade, and Swordking Ye who caused a sensation in the Sea of Swords. It won''t be long before they absorb the other Sword Peaks."

    Shangguan Yu remained silent, a portrait of dignity amidst the swirling undercurrents of intrigue and conspiracy.

    Qian Kun chuckled mischievously, a twinkle of mirth in his eyes as he shrugged his shoulders nonchntly. "The Sword Pavilion might have been stronger back in the day, but they never took such measures, heh heh! Anyway, we at the Spirit Treasure Pavilion certainly don''t want to see a unified Azure Spirit Sword Sect monopolize everything. Otherwise, we wouldn''t be able to fish out even a tiny bit of benefits."

    Shangguan Yu, who stood beside him, interjected with an icy tone, "If Ye Tiance hears you talking like this, don''t even think about leaving Azure Spirit alive."

    He waved her concern away with a cheeky grin, "Oh, he won''t hear of it, dear Yu. You''re too righteous and virtuous!" His gaze shifted towards the direction of the Sword Pavilion, a trace of mncholy painting his features. "Come to think of it, although that Zhao Jianxing is stubborn, obstinate, and has a bad temper, representing the epitome of a straightforward man... I still prefer him!" With a wistful sigh, Qian Kun turned away, his figure receding slowly, hands sped behind his back, leaving a trail of thoughtfulness in his wake.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Atop the First Sword Peak, Jiang Yue awoke with a start, her face a canvas of ghastly pallor. Lingering pains graced her legs, abdomen, and scalp, remnants of a horrific nightmare that haunted her rest. Hurriedly, she fetched a bronze mirror, inspecting her visage with frantic eyes.

    To her relief, her once copsed nose seemed to have regained its structure, leaving only a few sword scars marring her delicate features, preserving her beauty, albeit just barely.

    "Don''t worry, Junior Sister," a man beside her bed spoke withforting assurance, his silver robe gleaming under the soft light. His hair, resembling strands of liquid silver, bestowed upon him an aura of noble coldness. "These are merely superficial wounds. With my father''s Jade Face Pill, you''ll recover in no time."

    "Fifth Senior Brother..." Jiang Yue could hardly contain the tears threatening to spill at the sight of him. Yet, her attention quickly diverted to another figure standing not far off, the First Sword Venerable, a man known for his stern demeanor.

    "Master!" Struggling to her feet, Jiang Yue bowed deeply, her voice barely above a whisper,den with regret. "I have disgraced you today." Her heart raced, fear wing at her as she anticipated a storm of rage, especially in the presence of a guest as esteemed as Elder Fan.

    But to her surprise, Ye Tiance turned around, his face surprisingly gentle. He approached and helped her up, his voice as soft as a summer breeze, "Are you feeling better?"

    "Yes, much better," she hastily replied.

    "Tianyuan, help Lil Yue back to her bed," the Sword Venerable ordered.

    "Yes!" Ye Tianyuanplied, guiding Jiang Yue gently back to her resting ce.

    Jiang Yue couldn''t sit still, her mind swirling with the day''s events. "Master, that person clearly was in the Dragon Spring Realm, how could he possibly fight at the level of the Divine Sea Realm?"

    "It''s quite normal," the Sword Venerable responded calmly.

    "Normal?"

    "Yes, observing his swordsmanship, one could tell that it isn''t something acquired in a few days. The Sword Pavilion must have been secretly nurturing him for years."

    "But his Sword Soul..."

    "Nineyers of Sword Aura, indeed quite astonishing. Even the weakest Sword Soul, with a powerful Sword Aura, possesses immense destructive power. Coupled with his experience as a seasoned warrior forged by the Sword Pavilion, rising from mountains of corpses, hisbat style is extremely ruthless and his sword skills formidable. Your senior brothers and sisters, despite being in the Divine Sea Realm, were caught off guard." The First Sword Venerable sighed slightly, his eyes reflecting a firm resolution. "It seems I must intensify your training in life-and-death battles. Realms are realms,bat isbat, they are two different matters."

    The conversation enlightened Jiang Yue, allowing her to realize why her Ice Moon Sword Soul couldn''t overpower his. It was the sheeryers of Sword Aura and superior swordsmanship that were the culprits.

    A flicker of resentment sparked in her eyes. On this day, she found a peculiar resemnce between him and another person¡ªYun Xiao. It was an unsettling observation, one that drenched her in a sudden pool of unease.

    <i>No, it couldn''t be!</i> Jiang Yue swiftly dismissed the thought. <i>How could that Yun Xiao be this terrifying?</i>

    The Sword Venerable couldn''t contain a sardonic smile, the cold moonlight glinting off his indifferent demeanor. "I just didn''t expect the Sword Pavilion to have amassed such a trove of demon bones. In just a few days, they''ve constructed a nineyer Sword Aura."

    Ye Tiance clenched his teeth, a bitter undertone coloring his voice. "The five hundred-year-old demon bone must have been the key."

    "Master, not only is he the champion of the Sword Debate now, but he''s also won the thousand-year-old demon bone..." Jiang Yue said on the verge of tears, overwhelmed by her humiliation.

    The loss of the five-hundred-year-old demon bone was disgraceful enough. Now, the coveted thousand-year-old demon bone was stolen right from under her nose. Anyone else would have died of rage by now.

    "Don''t worry, Junior Sister. Their numbers at the Sword Pavilion are scant. I will help you exact revenge at tomorrow''s Grand Conve. Once I retrieve the demon bone, I will personally hand them to you," Ye Tianyuan assured, his eyes burning with fierce determination.

    "He''s attending the Grand Conve?" Jiang Yue couldn''t quite fathom the thought.

    "This brash young man thinks highly of himself, dismissing others as beneath him. There''s a good chance he''ll show up," Ye Tianyuan spected.

    "But even if he intends to, Zhao Xuanran will not permit it," the Sword Venerable interjected.

    "Then what do we do, Father?" Ye Tianyuan clenched his teeth, his voice filled with venom. "We cannot let a thousand-year-old demon bone go to waste in the hands of a worthless person!" It was an affront, a p to the faces of those who revered ancient treasures, to see it being desecrated by someone he considered a mere thug. It was a wound to his pride, a sight too pitiful to bear.

    The Sword Venerable brought a calm to the rising storm, his voice resonating with a seasoned pragmatism that settled over them like a warm cloak in the chilling night. "You need not interfere any further. Wu Wu will handle it. That youngster won''t make it to tomorrow''s award ceremony."

    Understanding dawned on Ye Tianyuan and Jiang Yue, their eyes illuminating with a shared realization. Assassination¡ªit was the only logical conclusion.

    "That greenhorn has no inkling of the deep waters he was wading into. Does he truly believe a single Sword Heart and a dying Zhao Jianxing would suffice to protect him?" Ye Tianyuan shook his head.

    "He might be protected momentarily, but surely not for a lifetime. Everyone has moments of vulnerability, don''t they?" Jiang Yue chimed in, feeling a tad safer now, the situation appearing almostughable in hindsight.

    With a deep breath that seemed to cleanse the anguish from her soul, her gaze turned somber, her voice echoing the deep-seated desire for vengeance thaty within her. "I only regret not being able to behead him personally, to avenge our Seventh Senior Brother and Ninth Senior Sister."

    "Lil Yue, there''s no need to harbor such thoughts,'' the Sword Venerable said.

    "Please enlighten me, Master," Jiang Yue requested, bowing slightly.

    He spoke with the serenity of a still pond, untouched by the troubles of the world. "I know you suffered humiliation today, but in the grand scheme of the Immortal Path, this is nothing. The journey to ascension is fraught with powerful adversaries. Who can remain undefeated forever? So, there''s no need to cling to the past. As cultivators, we must keep our Dao Hearts steadfast, focusing solely on the path ahead."

    "How can one grow without conquering their inner demons?" Jiang Yue asked. His words resonated with her, but confusion still marred her understanding.

    With a gentle smile that held the warmth of aforting embrace, the Sword Venerable spoke, "Those who have passed will eventually be forgotten. Even your Senior Brother Ye was once oppressed by the seven prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, unable to catch a breath. And now? He''s soared to new heights, leaving the corpses of the Sword Pavilion Seven as nothing but a joke. Even I was once trampled underfoot by Sect Master Zhao Jianxing. But now, he can only watch helplessly as I dismantle his Sword Pavilion and ughter his disciples. So, the one whoughsst,ughs the best. When you truly attain an unparalleled mastery, you''ll realize that those past demons were nothing but a joke."

    As the Sword Venerable''s words settled, a fire reignited in Jiang Yue, a me of resolve and newfound determination. Her spirit was aze once more, the darkness that clouded her vision dissipating like morning mist before the rising sun.

    "I understand now, thank you, master!" A genuine smile blossomed on her face, a reflection of the enlightenment that now bathed her soul. She had found her rity.

    "He''s nothing more than a fly doomed to perish tonight!" Jiang Yue proimed defiantly. "Why should I even wait to defeat him myself? Just like the Sword Pavilion Seven, no matter how remarkable they were, once life deserted them, they were cast into oblivion, weren''t they?

    "My ultimate journey is toward the Sea of Swords! I should not be felled by someone of his ilk!" She avowed, her spirit radiating with an unmistakable vigor that danced within the dimly lit pavilion, painting shadows that seemed to cheer her on in a spirited ballet.

    Jiang Yue''s newfound resolve spurred her forward, and she asked, "Master, is Elder Fan still at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect?"

    "Indeed, he is. The real spectacle is tomorrow''s Grand Conve," the Sword Venerable replied.

    With her teeth gritted in anticipation, Jiang Yue asked, "Can I test my Sword Soul now? I am getting a little impatient."

    The Sword Venerable patted her shoulder gently, his chuckle warm and hearty, yet infused with wisdom. "See? You''re still feeling suppressed, hence the haste to prove yourself."

    Jiang Yue looked up, puzzled, "What do you mean, Master?"

    "As it has already been announced that the Sword Soul testing will take ce tomorrow, it''s best not to alter the n," the Sword Venerable said.

    "But what''s the difference?" Jiang Yue inquired, a hint of confusion coloring her features.

    "Today, you''re perceived as being in a weaker position. I understand your eagerness to salvage your pride through the strength of your Sword Soul. However, people will still say, despite your remarkable talent, didn''t you still lose to Yun Xiao?" The Sword Venerable outlined.

    "And what about tomorrow?"

    "Tomorrow, allow your Fifth Senior Brother and the other disciples of my First Sword Peak to dominate the Grand Conve, reiming our towering prestige, intimidating all the heroes gathered there. At that time, you can seize the momentum to soar even higher, creating a greater sensation!" the Sword Venerable exined.

    "I understand, Master!" Jiang Yue''s gaze shifted outward, where the canvas of the night sky was unfurling, stars twinkling like watchful eyes, bearing witness to her fiery resolve.

    "Tomorrow, news of Yun Xiao''s demise will reach us. Hisplete annihtion will allow me to fully reverse the tides, bing an unstoppable force!" Her eyes shimmered with an electrifying luminescence, portraying a vivid tapestry of her deepest desires and aspirations¡ªthe moment she would shake the Azure Spirit Sword Sect with her results on the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone!

    "Tomorrow, I will ascend, stepping over his corpse, thriving amidst adversity!" As she clenched her fists, her demeanor bore a peculiar mix of fierceness and adorable determination, like a young tigress preparing to stake her im in the untamed wilderness.

    "Ha ha!" Both the Sword Venerable and Ye Tianyuan couldn''t help but join in her infectiousughter, the sound mingling with the nocturnal symphony, as if the night itself was echoing their heartyughter

 Chapter 029 - Why Cultivate If Youre Afraid of Death?

    <h4>Chapter 029 - Why Cultivate If You''re Afraid of Death?</h4>

    At the Sword Pavilion, under the canvas of a night sky sprinkled with a smattering of stars, a small gathering unfolded.

    ¡°Cheers!¡± There were flickering bonfires, jugs of coarse wine, and faces beaming withughter. Who could say that the path of immortals was a solitary one? Right here and now, there was camaraderie, the warmth of a fire, a world bustling with life, and hearts filled with sincerity.

    "Here''s to you, Junior Brother Yun!"

    "Cheers to you! I''ve never respected anyone in this life as much as I respect you!"

    "Junior Brother Yun, you were so cool back there! Doing whatever you wanted in front of them!"

    ...

    A man with a face as handsome as a finely crafted jewel sat amidst the group. His eyes held the depth of an ocean filled with stars, and his hair cascaded down like a waterfall. Though his white robe bore stains of blood, the corner of his lips curled up in a slightly inebriated smile. Yun Xiao, with his intoxicated gaze that carried a hint of casual elegance and a manner that wasrgely leisurely, seemed like an ethereal being who had gracefully descended into the mundane world.

    No one would have guessed that this seemingly untarnished young man, only a few hours earlier, had been atop the Conve Mountain, where he fought fiercely, leaving corpses and blood in his wake, even forcing a Sword Venerable to vomit blood.

    Yun Xiao was the picturesque depiction of a Sword Immortal. With a sword in one hand and wine in the other, he soared into the sky, wandering freely in the mundane world.

    "Having a sword and wine makes this worldly existence not so dull after all," Yun Xiao mused, his face flushed from the alcohol. He leaned against a tree, humming a tune, embodying the spirit of carefree abandon. Dressed in a white robe and armed with an azure sword, this youthful figure seemed ready to traverse the heavens without perishing like a mere mortal.

    "Our Junior Brother Yun is a candid figure on the path of immortality, wielding his sword to make a name at the Conve, who in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect would dare not to acknowledge him?" Cai Maomao eximed boisterously, bolstered by the wine, elevating Yun Xiao to the heavens with his praises.

    "Maomao, there''s no need for the bootlicking! Everyone can see clearly for themselves."

    "It''s been three years, and never have we felt as ted as we do today!"

    "After witnessing Junior Brother Yun''s battle today, even if I were to die now, it would be worth it!"

    ...

    Their admiration for Yun Xiao was palpable, expressed with each bowl of coarse wine they downed.

    "Junior Brother Yun, let me toast you again!"

    "Come, let''s drink!"

    "Let''s celebrate the victory!"

    ...

    With a smile, the slightly drunken Yun Xiao epted all toasts without refusal.

    "What a forthright fellow!"

    "Though Junior Brother Yun is handsome, he''s truly a man of substance!"

    "Seriously, who describes someone like that?"

    "Ha ha..."

    ...

    The banter andughter continued until the wine ran dry, and they all gathered around Yun Xiao.

    "Junior Brother Yun, are you afraid of death?" Cai Maomao asked, his face serious for a moment.

    "Why cultivate if you fear death? Might as well go home and farm!" Yun Xiao responded, a drunkenugh escaping him.

    "Junior Brother Yun, do you have anyone you''re holding onto in this world?" Qin Tong asked, probing gently.

    "No, not anymore, haha..." Yun Xiao''sughter faltered and he paused, a sobering thought dawning upon him amidst the jovial atmosphere. Yes, it was gone. Theforting bonds of family ceased to exist after his parents departed this world. The vast human realm, now a silent, terrifying abyss of solitude.

    But then, Cai Maomao chimed in, thumping his chest with a reassuring grin, "No worries! If you don''t mind, you can always be concerned about your Senior Brother Cai. At the very least, I¡¯ll cover your meals!"

    A faint smile broke through Yun Xiao''s mncholy demeanor. "Alright, I¡¯ll think about you when I have some time to spare."

    Cai Maomao continued, a yful yet sentimental tone in his voice, "And don''t forget about Senior Sister Zhao. Today, she protected you like a hen shielding her chicks!"

    Qin Tong shot him an irritated nce, snapping, "Who are you calling a hen?"

    At the mention of Zhao Xuanran, Yun Xiao''s head seemed to sway, his consciousness teetering between the realms of sobriety and intoxication. Slowly, he pushed himself to his feet, his gaze sweeping across the surroundings until it settled upon a figure bathed in moonlight at the edge of a cliff¡ªa woman dressed in a ck gown, her silhouette a captivating vision amidst the dreamy glow of the moon. She had always been there, just a silent observer amidst the revelry.

    "Go on!" Qin Tong urged, giving Yun Xiao a gentle nudge.

    With a nod, Yun Xiao made his way over, his steps slightly unsteady. He sat down beside the woman, their shoulders almost touching. As he turned to look at her, the moonlight bestowed a gentle luminescence upon her serene face, her eyes deep and tranquil, reminiscent of the unfathomable sea.

    "Why not join us for a drink, Senior Sister?" he asked, the cool night breeze gradually sobering him up.

    Zhao Xuanran didn''t respond verbally. Instead, she reached into a small Pouch of Holding she had taken out, her delicate hands soon re-emerging with a petite sword made of dark bone.

    "For you," she uttered, handing the sword to Yun Xiao.

    "A Sword Heart?" he stuttered, momentarily stunned.

    She nodded silently, her gaze fixed on the forest stretched out before them, a gesture of affirmation apanying her stoic demeanor.

    "But this was left to you by your grandfather," he protested, shaking his head.

    "Just take it," she insisted.

    Yun Xiao hesitated, sensing the immense weight of responsibility that came with the object. This was a legacy, a treasure imbued with the affection and protection of previous generations¡ªnot something to be bestowed lightly.

    "It''s been with me for sixteen years, I¡¯ve cherished it enough. It''s time for it to serve its purpose," she said, her voice tinged with a certain mncholy.

    "Sixteen years?" he echoed, a look of bewilderment clouding his features.

    "Yes, if my grandfather had been reincarnated right after his death, he would be about your age now," she reflected, a trace of wistfulness in her tone.

    Yun Xiao hurriedly rified, "Don''t get any wrong ideas; I''m not your grandfather reincarnated."

    Her eyebrows arched gracefully at hisment, a yful pout forming as she turned to face him. Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle at her mock-anger, scratching his head sheepishly. "Just a joke to lighten the mood!"

    She rolled her eyes at him, a gesture which, coupled with her feigned annoyance, had an inexplicable charm that captivated him.

    She then stood up, her eyes locked onto his as she solemnly urged, "Take it, it¡¯s nearing its expiration date. Remember, surviving is more important than anything else."

    "What about you?" he asked, a tinge of concern flickering in his eyes.

    "I have a father still!" Zhao Xuanran dered, a flicker of resolve illuminating her eyes in the moonlit night.

    "Will he recover?" Yun Xiao asked, his voice tinged with a vulnerability that was seldom revealed.

    "He will! My father once told me, he would not dare to enter the cycle of reincarnation as long as the culprits remain alive," Zhao Xuanran said, her voice brimming with an unyielding spirit.

    "Alright," Yun Xiao nodded, touched by her determination.

    "Promise me you won''t attend the Grand Conve tomorrow," Zhao Xuanran urged, her eyes sternly fixed on him, leaving no room for negotiations.

    Yun Xiao remained silent, absorbing the gravity of her plea. After a moment, he rose, gravitating towards the darkness that seemed to call out to him.

    "Where are you going?" Zhao Xuanran called after him, a hint of anxiety woven into her words.

    "To cultivate," he replied simply.

    "If you step out of my sight tonight, you might not survive," she warned, her lips pressed into a tight line, bracing herself for the worst.

    Without turning back, Yun Xiao lifted the Sword Heart in his hand and swayed it yfully, a grin stretching across his face. "With the protection of your grandfather embedded in this, I won''t meet my end so easily."

    Hisughter echoed in the night, vibrant and full of youthful exuberance, before he disappeared into the shroud of darkness. But the moment he was out of sight, his jovial facade fell away, reced by a visage of cold determination and ruthlessness that could freeze one''s soul.

    The sounds of his swift steps harmonized with the night, and from his bosom, a small ck creature emerged, its nose twitching and eyes ring ominously.

    "We are getting closer," Blue Star stated, its voice icy as a winter''s night.

    "Who is it?" Yun Xiao asked, his voice deep and resonant, a stark contrast to the cheerful boy from moments ago. Sobriety had fully reimed him.

    "It''s not a cultivator from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect," Blue Star informed, the tone indicating an unexpected twist in their plot.

    "No?" Yun Xiao paused, a ripple of confusion passing through him. He had ventured out alone, refusing to alert Zhao Xuanran and the elders, intending to seize the culprit''s Sword Soul for himself. But it wasn''t a member of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect tracking him?

    "This Sword Heart would be wasted if not used against a Sword Cultivator," Yun Xiao said, halting in his tracks. He nced back, realizing the distance he had covered. There was no turning back now.

    "We have a solution," Blue Star proposed, a malicious grin echoing in its voice.

    "Speak."

    "We lure them into the coffin, weaken them through refinement, then you can deliver the killing blow!" Blue Star suggested, a hint of savagerycing its voice.

    "Agreed!" Yun Xiao''s trust in them was absolute. Arriving at a secluded area shrouded in darkness, the little ck beast leapt forward, transforming into a massive ck bronze coffin tucked in a corner.

    Yun Xiao circled back, his skin prickling with apprehension during his brief absence.

    "The personing is an expert assassin!" So far, Yun Xiao hadn''t caught sight of the individual, relying solely on Blue Star''s keen senses to track the elusive presence.

    <i>BOOM!</i> Without further hesitation, acting as though unaware of the impending danger, Yun Xiao opened the bronze coffin and stepped in, leaving an entrance beckoning enticingly. In the forest of the Sword Pavilion, the sudden appearance of a mysterious bronze coffin would pique the curiosity of any confident passerby, luring them to unveil the secrets thaty within.

    A humming vibration echoed ominously, its tone echoing through the thick metal of the bronze coffin as Yun Xiao stepped inside. Almost instantaneously, a miasma of ck mist swelled, shrouding everything within in an ink-like darkness.

    But in the next heartbeat, a shadow trailed swiftly behind him¡ªa figure cloaked in ck. Yun Xiao finally caught sight of the infiltrator, although the figure seemed unaware of his presence.

    <i>CRASH! </i>As the intruder made their entry, Blue Star mmed the coffin lid shut with formidable force. In the blink of an eye, the interior of the bronze coffin plunged into a churning sea of darkness, engulfing the neer in a storm of ck fog.

    "What?" The intruder''s startled cry echoed, the realization of their peril dawningte. They tried to fend off the engulfing darkness, but it seeped through every pore, staining their exposed skin with its malevolent hue¡ªa sinister omen of the mist''s ominous power, presumably linked to the digestion capabilities of Blue Star and Red Moon.

    "Attack!" Blue Starmanded, his voice ringing clear amidst the chaos.

    Following themand, a radiant Sword Soul, imbued with azure hues, erupted within the confined space. <i>Swallow Tail sh!</i> It moved with a flicker of unmatched speed, leaving the cloaked figure no chance to react.

    <i>KLANG! </i>A futile attempt to block the strike ended in horror as the Sword Soul pierced through their chest, spewing blood in its wake.

    "Argh!" A scream of agony echoed, resonating with the sounds of a body copsing to the ground, eyes shaking violently in disbelief and pain.

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>Without a moment''s respite, Yun Xiao unleashed a relentless barrage of attacks, the Flying Sword piercing the figure repeatedly. Within mere moments, their bones were severed, leaving the figure a broken heap on the ground, immobilized and drowning in their own pool of blood.

    How utterly pathetic! The victim probably never imagined that their invasion of the bronze coffin would lead to such a swift and brutal demise. Even Yun Xiao hadn''t expected thebined capabilities of Blue Star and Red Moon to be this devastating, albeit a tactic with limited applications, especially under the scrutinizing eyes of a public audience.

    "Please, don''t kill me!" The figure pleaded, struggling painfully, leaving a trail of blood as they moved.

    "A woman?" Yun Xiao approached, curiosity piqued. Using his Sword Soul, he lifted the veil that obscured her face.

    Indeed, it was a woman¡ªa gracefully slender woman dressed in tight-fitting ck attire, her beauty seemingly untouched by her treacherous profession.

    With a cold, steely gaze, Yun Xiao pressed the sword soul to her throat, his voice echoing with unyielding authority. "Who sent you to kill me?"

    Gritting her teeth, she bargained desperately, "If I reveal him, will you spare my life? I''m merely a hired hand, with no personal vendetta against you."

    With the simplicity of a seasoned negotiator and the cold resolve of a stone, Yun Xiao responded, "Agreed."

    A hint of relief flickered in the eyes of the woman dressed in ck, who promptly disclosed, "The one who paid for your life is the Third Sword Venerable, Wu Wu."

    "Understood." Yun Xiao nodded, and in a fluid motion, his Sword Soul pierced through the woman''s throat, a dance of death executed with chilling efficiency.

    "You... You promised..." The woman''s eyes widened in shock and betrayal, her face a canvas of disbelief and despair as she gazed at him.

    "Yeah, I did. So what?" Yun Xiao replied, his voice as cold as the de he wielded.

    The woman could offer no response, her life rapidly ebbing away. Momentster, she copsed limply onto Yun Xiao''s sword, her body gradually dissipating into a thick smog.

    "Not a Sword Cultivator, no Sword Soul to harvest," Yun Xiao muttered, tapping her skeletal remains with his Sword Soul. His investigation yielded nothing, fueling his mounting frustration. He hastily searched through her attire, his anger boiling over when he found her possessionscking.

    "Not even a single item of value on her!" His temper red even more, noting the absence of any Spirit Stones, and consequently, any Heavenly Dao Sariras. He couldn''t help but begrudgingly admire the assassins'' code. To steal wealth but never allow one''s own wealth to be stolen!

    No Sword Soul meant no increase in his Sword Aurayers, and without a night''s cultivation, his realm wouldn''t improve. What was he to do the next day?

    "There''s worse news..." Blue Star chimed in suddenly, its voice weak and fading.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Unable to maintain its form, the bronze coffin spat Yun Xiao out, morphing into a t brick in the process. On its surface, a pair ofckluster eyes blinked back, one set blue, the other red.

    "What happened?" Yun Xiao asked, baffled.

    "Do I have to spell it out for you? We''re drained!" Blue Star spat, its irritation seeping through.

    "So easily?" Yun Xiao couldn''t hide his disbelief.

    "What did you expect, maintaining this form is no easy feat!" Blue Star snapped back.

    "Wahhh, I''m so hungry! I feel like I''m going to starve!" Red Moon wailed pitifully.

    Yun Xiao could only sigh, his ns for a counterattack and a swift escape dashed to bits. Not only had he gained nothing, but he''d also lost his little protector in the process. "At least I didn''t use the Sword Heart, or the loss would have been monumental," he ground out through clenched teeth.

    He wanted to sit down and cultivate, to at least salvage something from this disaster, but his rising anger prevented any form of concentration. The more he thought about it, the angrier he became.

    "Damn it all! As if sending someone to assassinate me wasn''t enough, they couldn''t even send a Sword Cultivator, and not a dime on her!" His words echoed bitterly in the emptiness, his simmering fury a stark contrast to the serene night that surrounded them.

    Incensed, utterly insufferable! In a sudden surge of fury, Yun Xiao sprang to his feet, yanking out the Sword Heart given to him by Zhao Xuanran.

    "What in the world are you nning to do?" Blue Star inquired, an edge of worry in his voice.

    "I can''t stomach this indignity!" Yun Xiao eximed, his face flushed with anger.

    Blue Star was taken aback for a second before he remarked, somewhat incredulously, "My man, you''ve already killed the assassin. What are you still angry about?"

    Yun Xiao red, his voice simmering with unrestrained fury. "That woman didn''t even have a strand of hair on her worth looting! What''s the difference between having killed her and not?"

    Blue Star didn''t have a response, its face a mask of bewilderment.

    "No, this won''t stand!" Yun Xiao dered, his gaze steely. "I''ve been taken advantage of. If I don''t spill some blood tonight, I won''t be able to concentrate on my cultivation!"

    His fierce eyes fell on the Sword Heart resting in his palm. A wicked grin stretched across his face as he mused, "Who said this thing is only good for saving one''s skin?"

    The object in his hand was not just any ordinary item. It was a Sword Heart, a lethal weapon passed down from Zhao Xuanran''s ancestor, capable of delivering a fatal blow.

    Holding the Sword Heart in one hand and the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in the other, an idea suddenly shed through Yun Xiao''s mind. He brought the Sword Heart closer to the Sword Soul. Instantly, thick tendrils of blue mist erupted from the Sword Soul, reaching towards the Sword Heart like seeking tentacles, causing thetter to tremor as if on the verge of disintegration.

    "What is this...?" Yun Xiao gasped, his eyes widening in shock, a wild glint of realization taking over.

    "I can''t take this anymore!" He yelled out, throwing caution to the wind. His white robes fluttered as he disappeared into the dark forest, leaving nothing but a trail of dust in his wake.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Meanwhile, atop the Third Sword Peaky the Red Molten Pavilion, thevish residence of the Third Sword Venerable, Wu Wu. Situated at the very summit of the main peak, the mansion was adorned with numerous fiery rednterns that cast a warm, illuminating glow in every corner. At its entrance stood two golden lions, each towering at ten feet tall, exuding an aura of dominance and grandeur. Besides these, the pavilion boasted countless pirs and towers, adorned with precious gems and spiritual stones, rivaling even the splendor of a mortal emperor''s pce.

    At this very moment, inside the Red Molten Pavilion, over a dozen individuals gathered for a discussion. The Third Sword Venerable presided at the head of the table, nked by others on both sides. A jade tformy before each individual,den with an array of fine wines and delicacies, resembling a grand banquet in a golden pce.

    Amongst the attendees were Wu Wu''s wife and siblings, along with a host of offspring, including the notable Wu Jianxiong, who was ted to participate in the Grand Conve. Along with Ye Tianyuan, the two were the only disciples who had achieved the Mid Divine Sea Realm in the uing battle!

    Today, the atmosphere within the Red Molten Pavilion was rather somber due to the untimely demise of Wu Wu''s younger son, Wu Jianyang. The tension in the room was palpable, a silent testament to the gravity of the situation at hand.

    "It''s over!" Wu Wu suddenly proimed, his voice slicing through the stifling atmosphere of the room.

    All eyes pivoted towards him, an anticipatory hush falling over them.

    With an icy re, he continued, "At this very moment, that Yun Xiao is meeting a slow and painful death. This news should bring peace to Lil Yang in the afterlife. We need not worry any longer. Let''s all look ahead, shall we?"

    "Even so, I''d give anything to watch Yun Xiao die a horrific death with my own eyes!" Wu Jianxiong interjected with a cruel smile, the venom in his voice palpable.

    Wu Wu''s wife chimed in, her voiceden with spite, "I feel we owe it to Lil Yang to at leastnd another blow, to make sure the job is done right."

    Wu Wu''s voice hardened, "The Azure Spirit Sword Sect has distinguished guests at the moment. We must exercise restraint. A murder is eptable, but we must avoid causing a scene at all costs."

    One of Wu Wu''s younger sons spoke up, a gleeful cruelty dancing in his eyes, "Dad, once the guests have left, can we kill a few more of those Sword Pavilion weaklings?"

    "Getting rid of the Sword Pavilion sooner rather thanter would surely secure us a piece of the blessednds," another chimed in with a grin, clearly enjoying the thought.

    The conversation spiraled into a fever pitch of ruthless ambitions and grievances, each person seemingly more eager than thest to spill blood and secure power. Wu Wu finally lifted his head, addressing his most prized son, Wu Jianxiong, "Our immediate priority should be to secure the second ce in the uing Grand Conve, further establishing the prominence of our Third Sword Peak."

    "Yes, father!" Wu Jianxiong responded, his eyes brimming with unyielding confidence.

    "To the Wu Family, cheers!" Wu Wu raised his cup high.

    "Cheers!" echoed the crowd, rising to their feet in a toast of unity and resolve. They downed their drinks, a collective smirk of cold satisfaction ying across their faces.

    But at that very moment, a young man adorned in white appeared at the doorway, his presence ghostly and unsettling. He took in the gilded magnificence of the Red Molten Pavilion, the feastid out before these conspirators. His fury burgeoned, fuelled by the ring disparity between the opulence before him and the justice he sought.

    "Are you all done with your drinks?" The young man gritted through clenched teeth, anger radiating from him in palpable waves. His voice carried a simmering rage, a stark contrast to the cold, calcting cruelty disyed by the upants of the room.

 Chapter 030 - In This Life, I Wont Tolerate Any Humiliation!

    <h4>Chapter 030 - In This Life, I Won''t Tolerate Any Humiliation!</h4>

    Fury surged within Yun Xiao, a tempestuous inferno that threatened to engulf everything in its vicinity. They had the audacity to indulge in a sumptuous feast, while he, the unsuspecting prey, was supposed to be meeting his tragic end in some forsaken hut within the Sword Pavilion!

    The opulence that festooned every inch of the Red Molten Pavilion¡ªa sickening contrast to his humble abode¡ªonly fueled the fire burning in him.

    "Yun Xiao!" The name reverberated within the pavilion''s walls, leaving the members of the Wu Family almost unable to trust their own eyes. Wasn''t he supposed to be their prey, suffering in agony at this very moment? How had the rabbit stumbled into the wolf''s den?

    Even Wu Wu, the distinguished Third Sword Venerable, could not contain his disbelief, rubbing his eyes vigorously as if expecting the scene before him to change.

    "It really is him!" Wu Jianxiong eximed, his cup of wine crashing onto the floor in his shock, a broken testament to the unbelievable turn of events. His disbelief wasn''t rooted in fear, but in the sheer audacity of Yun Xiao¡¯s presence. How had Yun Xiao managed to evade assassination, let alone have the gall to stand before them at the heart of the Third Sword Peak?

    "Check outside, see if there are others with him." Wu Wumanded, his face darkening, as he kicked the exquisite jade table before him aside, advancing towards Yun Xiao with a menacing stride.

    "Yes, sir!" A few of the Wu Family''s Sword Cultivators bypassed Yun Xiao to carry out the order. Even if Yun Xiao was alone, they could still trap him within the pavilion.

    "No one''s there!" Wu Jianxiong reported, his voice tinged with shock.

    "Only him? Alone?" Wu Wu paused, before his stern face broke into augh, a sound that was soon echoed by theughter of his family.

    "Oh, Yun Xiao, did youe to our Third Sword Peak intending to engage in a verbal battle with us all by your lonesome?" Wu Wu managed to sputter between fits ofughter, shaking his head in sheer disbelief. He tried to find the words to describe this audacious young man, but found himself at a loss.

    "Father, this little rabbit practically delivered himself to our doorstep on this dark and windy night. I say we have ourselves some fun with him for half the night!" Wu Jianxiong remarked with a wicked grin.

    "First, let''s chop off his hands and feet to prevent him from escaping using a Sovereign Sword," Wu Wu''s wife suggested coldly.

    At this, Yun Xiao''s anger soared to new heights, his voice echoing ominously through the pavilion, "You intend to mutte me?" he red at them, his eyes a raging storm.

    "What else did you expect? A reasoned discussion? Fool, this is a sect of the Immortal Path, where blood is amon sight, not some vige brawl!" Wu Jianxiong retorted, taking over for his mother.

    "A ce of bloodshed, you say? Then let''s add some more to the mix!" Yun Xiao dered, his eyes shing with a fierce storm of thunderous anger and electric wrath.

    The Wu Family continued their sinisterughter, unaware of the gathering storm before them.

    Suddenly, from within his robes, Yun Xiao drew a small, dark sword, a harbinger of the tempest that was about to unleash.

    "Sword Heart!!" A sudden promation echoed menacingly in the room, sending an involuntary twitch through Wu Wu''s eyelids. Theughter that had been bubbling among his family ceased abruptly, leaving in its wake faces that were an eerie canvas of shock and disbelief. The revtion was staggering. Zhao Xuanran had entrusted her lifeline, the precious Sword Heart, to this young greenhorn, Yun Xiao. A chill trickled down their spines as they recalled that this seemingly na?ve youth harbored a propensity for ruthless ughter.

    "Yun Xiao! Control yourself!" Wu Wu bellowed, desperately trying to rein in the escting tension. "That Sword Heart of yours can only harm one person. And mark my words, the rest of us will retaliate without mercy, tearing you to shreds!"

    "No need to take it to this extreme, Yun Xiao. Using the Sword Heart means breaking all bonds, putting everyone close to Zhao Xuanran in grave danger," Wu Jianxiong tried to reason, his voice tinged with a hint of fear.

    "Who the hell said anything about exchanging lives with you idiots?" Yun Xiao shot back, a sinister smirk ying on his lips.

    <i>HUM! </i>With a resonant sound that reverberated ominously, another formidable force materialized beside Yun Xiao. His Heaven Burial Sword Soul, aplementary entity to the Sword Heart he already wielded. Now armed with both the Sword Heart and his Sword Soul, he had turned into an embodiment of impending doom, a sight that was unsettling enough to make Wu Wu take a step back, his face etched with lines of deep concern.

    "Think you can escape?" Yun Xiao''s coldughter pierced through the tense atmosphere. Without another word, he thrust the Heaven Burial Sword Soul onto the ck Sword Heart nestled in his left hand. A symphony of crackling and buzzing ensued as the dormant power of the Sword Heart, a culmination of a Sect Master''s lifelong swordsmanship, erupted fervently.

    A terrifying wave of murderous intent, metamorphosed into a ck tidal wave, engulfed the entire Red Molten Pavilion.

    But contrary to everyone''s expectations, the Sword Heart didn''t go on a killing spree as anticipated. Instead, it began to hum, its dark sword intentions and rays transforming into a torrential river, flowing eagerly into the waiting Sword Soul. The normally serene azure Sword Soul now resembled a living entity that had just received a tremendous boost of power, vibrating intensely as it absorbed the newfound energy.

    Humming and resonating, the Sword Soul exhibited a surreal disy of might. The merging streams of ck energy spiraled around it, morphing it into a powerful twister that was both awe-inspiring and terrifying. The innate deathly power of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul burst forth, dominating the opulent hall of the Red Molten Pavilion, turning it into a gruesome representation of the underworld where death pervaded every corner. Even the core of the Sword Soul, which bore a resemnce to a cerulean lotus bud, seemed to bloom, revealing intricate patterns of mountains, rivers, celestial bodies, and foliage, illuminating a world within itself.

    In the midst of the chaos, Yun Xiao, the young man dressed in pristine white, held the merged Sword Soul and Sword Heart, a fusion more potent than the sum of its parts. His heart swelled with unexpected joy as he realized the exponential increase in destructive power.

    "I never imagined that Heaven Burial could assimte the Sword Heart, unleashing a force far surpassing the original capabilities of the Sword Heart!" he eximed, his face reflecting the ecstasy of a formidable discovery.

    He could feel it¡ªan unparalleled surge in power coursing through him, turning him into a being far removed from an ordinary Cultivator, more akin to a demon devouring heavens and earths with unbridled power.

    Turning to Wu Wu''s wife, his eyes now a ghastly swirling pool of ck and azure, he sneered with demonic glee, "You wanted to sever my limbs, did you?" His piercing gaze, now resembling that of a ferocious demon, fixed itself onto Wu Wu''s trembling wife, promising retribution of the most horrific kind.

    "There might be some misunderstanding..." The woman''s face had already turned several shades paler, a clear indication of the dread taking over her.

    <i>BOOM! </i>A vortex of azure and ck, reminiscent of a tempestuous dragon, erupted directly from Yun Xiao''s hand. In that moment, the air grew thick with the scent of impending death, sending a few of the Wu family''s younger generation hurtling through the air to collide violently with the walls.

    It was the Sword Heart fueling the fury of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul! With just a casual flick of his wrist, the Sword Soul charged towards the woman, seemingly possessed by an ancient bloodlust.

    "Wu Wu, save me!!" The woman screamed in terror.

    <i>HUM! </i>The cyclonic maelstrom of azure and ck swept over her in an instant. <i>SPLATTER! </i>Flesh and blood were consumed by the frenzied Sword Soul, leaving nothing but a skeleton that crashed noisily onto the ground.

    "Aaaahh¡ª!" Wu Wu and Wu Jianxiong, their eyes nearly popping out of their sockets, witnessed the horrifying scene unfold before them. An acute fear surged within them, akin to a volcanic eruption of moltenva piercing straight through their hearts.

    Was this really the power of a Sword Soul? It was more like a relentless harbinger of death! This evolved form of the Sword Heart held much more than a mere capacity for a single kill.

    "You all plotted to assassinate me, didn''t you?" Yun Xiao''s eyes, now enshrouded in a mist of azure and ck, scanned over them, a furious ze of anger and killing intent billowing within. He remained steadfast in his conviction: whoever sought to kill him, would meet their demise first.

    "Run, now!" The courage of the Wu Family members shattered into pieces. The fusion of the Sword Heart and Sword Soul under Yun Xiao''s control surpassed theirprehension, leaving them in a state ofplete dismay.

    Over a dozen of them took to the air with their Sovereign Swords in a chaotic scramble, dispersing in a desperate attempt to escape.

    "There''s no point in running. You''re all going to die!" Yun Xiao let out a savageugh,manding the terrifyingly fast azure and ck cyclone with an air of ruthless control.

    <i>ROAR! </i>One by one, the faces of the Wu Family members turned ashen, their screams of agony echoing as they were inexorably swallowed by the storm.

    With a swift motion, living beings were instantly reduced to skeletons. And not just any skeletons¡ªckened ones, with every ounce of marrow seemingly drained from their bones.

    "Jiantao! Jianliao! Jianxiao..." Wu Wu cried out in anguish, calling the names that would now only be echoes from a distant past.

    "Which is faster, the calling of names or my de?" With a wave of his hand, Yun Xiao directed the cyclone towards Wu Jianxiong, leaving him trembling and teary-eyed, thest standing figure in the midst of a field of death, a testament to the massacre that had unfolded within the blink of an eye.

    "No!" Wu Jianxiong was fervently anticipating the day when he would dazzle the spectators in the Grand Conve, leading a battalion of one hundred and twenty disciples from the Third Sword Peak.

    But fate had other ns. No amount of wailing could halt the storm that approached him, a force as relentless and unforgiving as the grim reaper. Wu Jianxiong''s struggle was futile, his limbs iling in a frantic dance of desperation. Hellfire seemed to consume him, reducing his flesh to ash under the brutal embrace of the twister. His cries of agony echoed eerily as the vortex engulfed him, leaving nothing but a skeletal remnant, kneeling in destion. His skull bore hollowed eye sockets, portals to a soul consumed by the deepest horror.

    The Wu Family was decimated, leaving only Wu Wu behind, whose cries of anguish couldn''t outpace the speed of Yun Xiao''s onught.

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao turned his attention towards him.

    Wu Wu, the revered Third Sword Venerable. A man who once held a position amongst the heavens within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. A man who stood just below Ye Tiance, overseeing thousands. Now, he stood there, eyes ame with rage, chest heaving violently, a ming Sword Soul clenched tightly in his grip. His face was a twisted canvas of fury, an inferno zing in his eyes.

    "If I knew the power of this Sword Heart was so immense, I would have in Ye Tiance directly," Yun Xiao remarked with a frosty, sardonic grin. But of course, it was merely a cavalier remark. The assembly at Ye Tiance''s gathering far surpassed the conditions for murder he found at the Third Sword Peak.

    "You will meet a death most gruesome!" Wu Wu roared, mes of anger bursting from his chest.

    "It is your entire Wu Family who will meet that fate!" Yun Xiao chuckled. Engulfed by the swirling tempest, he remained untouched by its deadly force, a testament to his control over it. Even Wu Wu''s earlier attempt to eliminate him with his Flying Sword had been thwarted by this maelstrom of darkness.

    "Wu Wu, I saved you forst to grant you the privilege of experiencing the despair of watching your friends and family perish one by one," Yun Xiao proimed, holding the dark azure Sword Soul that seemed forged in the fires of hell, advancing on Wu Wu with determined strides.

    "Insolent child!" Wu Wu retorted, never imagining this greenhorn would bring such catastrophe upon him. "He must have a limit... Once the power of the Sword Heart is depleted..." he thought, his eyes hardening in resolve as he prepared to fight.

    The Sword Soul in his hand was Mid Comet grade, boasting neenyers of Sword Aura, a formidable power even amongst the Sword Venerables, ranking in the top three.

    "Die!" With a roar that echoed like a primal beast, he lunged at Yun Xiao, an inferno personified, Palm Sword at the ready.

    "Ha!" Yun Xiao let out a derisiveugh, grasping the dark azure Sword Soul. "Go!" He unleashed the full force of the Sword Heart! Both bone and heart, the Sword Heart acted as a protective treasure containing the very essence of the original owner''s cultivation.

    Yun Xiao could feel it vividly, thest ember of rage that a senior of the Sword Pavilion had imbued within this Sword Heart. A me that refused to extinguish, a me that did not need instructions to re up.

    As Yun Xiao swung his Sword Soul, the Sword Heart ignited everything in its path, forging ahead unabashedly. Using the Heaven Burial Sword Soul as a vessel, it transformed into a ferocious maelstrom of azure and ck whirlwinds.

    <i>BOOM! </i>In the fleeting moment when the dark cyclone swallowed Wu Wu, Yun Xiao seemed to witness the silhouette of an old man.

    "Ha ha ha..." Heughed heartily as he unleashed hell, tapping into the terrifying potential of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to its fullest extent. He orchestrated a symphony of death and destruction that reverberated far beyond the realms of normalcy, engulfing Wu Wu''s Sword Soul and very being in a tempest of obliteration.

    <i>A Thousand Swords Piercing the Heart!</i>

    <i>Hum!</i> With the roaring storm sweeping across, Wu Wu''s fiery sea hadn''t even had the chance to rise before being ruthlessly suppressed. The brawny Sword Cultivator screamed in agony, reduced to nothing but a skeleton in a blink of an eye. The passing of Heaven Burial left nothing but bones in its wake.

    <i>THUD! </i>Wu Wu''s screamsted but a mere moment before his skeletal remains toppled with a dull crash, bowing before Yun Xiao. The majestic Third Sword Venerable met his end in this dark night preceding the Grand Conve. A death filled with fear, humiliation, and a refusal to close his eyes in peace. But of course, with his eyeballs incinerated, closing his eyes was not an option.

    Wu Wu''s demise, coupled with the scattered bones littering the ground, seemed to have alleviated half of Yun Xiao''s rage. Yes, only half of it. "If killing bears no fruit, it''s as good as a pointless ughter!"

    <i>HUM! </i>The power of the Sword Heartpletely dissipated. With a clear sound, Heaven Burial also returned to Yun Xiao''s hand. Shedding its former terrifying demeanor, it now resembled a vibrant, harmless leaf radiating positive energy. The once luminescent azure lotus bud within now seemed to have lost its glow.

    "The Sword Heart''s power has been exhausted; it has returned to its normal state," Yun Xiao murmured, contemting the limited usage of this overpowering technique. Yet, he also glimpsed the infinite possibilities held within this Sword Soul.

    The Divine Pir and a World Embryo, this was the monstrous power of Heaven Burial. How could a mere mortal fathom it?

    "It''s a shame these Sword Hearts can''t be mass-produced, they harbor ancestral love that is beyondprehension..." Yun Xiao mused, a hint of regretcing his words. Otherwise, with an ample supply of them, he would wreak havoc without restraint.

    "So, the fundamental way to enhance my Sword Soul has to still be through the Sword Aura!" His gaze drifted upwards, a distant expression coloring his features.

    "You send assassins to kill me, disturb my cultivation, and then refuse topensate me, eh?" Yun Xiao stated more than asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. He had decided to settle this debt personally. First order of business, absorbing the Sword Souls!

    The reason the remains of the Wu Family hadn''t been annihted was the existence of the Sword Souls within their bones. Yun Xiao employed Heaven Burial to breach their skeletal remains one by one, ingesting the soon-to-disintegrate Sword Souls en masse.

    Heaven Burial resembled a greedy behemoth, feasting eagerly, assimting the Sword Souls one after another, starting from Wu Jianxiong''s elevenyer Sword Soul, to Wu Wu''s neenyer Sword Soul. The entire Wu Family had been consumedpletely, their deathsid bare for all to witness.

    Once finished, Yun Xiao counted carefully, "Fifteenyer Sword Aura, not bad." This method of absorbing Sword Souls would definitely filter out impurities. So, reaching fifteenyers of Sword Aura was more than satisfactory.

    In the whole Azure Spirit Sword Sect, only Ye Guying and Zhao Xuanran surpassed fifteenyers of Sword Aura among the disciples. Yet, in a mere few days, Yun Xiao had managed to catch up.

    "At least there''s some gain." Still, Yun Xiao was far from appeased, his countenance clouded with dissatisfaction. Because of the Wu Family, his little ck beast was now at death''s door, a sight that pained him immensely. His anger red anew, intolerable and uncontainable.

    "In this lifetime, how can I tolerate any form of humiliation?" Yun Xiao eximed, his voice echoing fiercely in the chamber. So he began to loot the Red Molten Pavilion unabashedly. The Pouches of Holding carried by Wu Wu and his ilk alone contained tens of thousands of Spirit Stones.

    "Eat up!" Yun Xiaomanded the little creature. "They drained your strength, don''t hold back." Half-asleep, the little being gobbled thousands of Spirit Stones, finally regaining its vitality and transforming back into the little ck beast.

    "I''m back in full force!" Blue Star stretchednguidly. Before it could gather its wits, Red Moon had already taken control, scouring the ground for more nourishment. The delicacies tributed by various mortal nations were still partially avable, offering a feast of rare vors and aromas.

    "Gurgle, gurgle!" The little ck beast''s stomach seemed like a bottomless pit, devouring everything from the delicious dishes to the jade table, and even the precious gems and spirit crystals embedded in the walls and ceiling, all imbued with spiritual energy, were ingested without reservation.

    "Right! We traveled a great distance to kill them, exhausting our minds and increasing our kill count for nothing. Indulging in a little feast isn''t too much, is it?" Yun Xiao chimed in, not remaining idle, assisting in the thorough piging of the entire Red Molten Pavilion.

    In the dim light of night, a scene of audacious plunder unfolded, twinkled with an audacious sense of whimsy and grandeur. The once resplendent mansion now stood stripped of its golden splendor, reduced to mere rocks and timber, a shadow of its former grandeur.

    "Let''s skedaddle!" Yun Xiao dered with mboyance, apanied by his equally notorious beastlypanion. The two swaggered towards the exit, ready to shake the dust from their feet and be done with the ce.

    As they approached the entrance, Yun Xiao''s gaze fell upon the pair of golden lions that adorned the gate. Even under the moonlit sky, they shone with an impressive and intimidating gleam. "If only these were perched atop the royal pce of Cloud Nation, imagine the grandeur they would add!" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but muse aloud, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

    His mood soured as he recalled the indignity he had faced earlier. "Blue Star, Red Moon! I was in the middle of my cultivation, earnestly preparing for tomorrow''s Grand Conve, and yet I''ve been rudely dragged here, tainting my luck. Gobbling up these golden lions isn''t too much, is it?" The humor in his tone could not fully mask the underlying bitterness. The attempt on his life had left a deep imprint, provoking his anger and resentment.

    Blue Star chuckled mischievously, aligning perfectly with Yun Xiao''s rebellious spirit. "Not at all. In fact, I''d say bringing down the entire mountain wouldn''t be crossing the line!" It admired Yun Xiao immensely for his audacity and pluck.

    "Go dimwit, eat up!" Blue Star ordered, finding joy in the unfolding chaos. Before Yun Xiao could even make a move to lift the golden lions, Red Moon swooped in, gnawing on one with gusto.

    Yun Xiao was left stunned and somewhat at a loss, witnessing the beast devouring what could have been a magnificent treasure. "I... I didn''t mean literally!" he eximed, the situation quickly spiraling into absurdity. In the blink of an eye, the formidable golden lions were now sporting gaping holes in their chests, their once mighty appearance severelypromised.

    "Go ahead, finish your meal. But afterwards, craft some Heavenly Dao Sariras with a golden lion vor for me," Yun Xiao instructed with a resigned sigh, anticipating a sizable addition to his collection of Heavenly Dao Sariras that night.

    Feeling a twinge of satisfaction, Yun Xiao stretched leisurely, his mood slightly improved. "It''s a fair trade for the assassination attempt on my life, I suppose," he mumbled to himself, feeling a little less aggrieved.

    "Let''s move," Yun Xiao dered, resuming his bold stride away from the ce. But, not more than a few stepster, he halted abruptly.

    "What now?" inquired Blue Star, a hint of exasperation in its voice.

    "That bastard babbled nonsense about me all day, tarnishing my reputation. I haven''t settled this score yet!" Yun Xiao said, recalling all the grievances he had with the Third Sword Venerable.

    Blue Star rolled its eyes dramatically, "My brother in the Heavenly Dao, you''ve already robbed him blind, ughtered his entire family, and devoured his treasures too. What more do you want?"

    "It''s not enough! My Dao Heart won''t be at peace unless I settle this!" Yun Xiao proimed, his face showing stern determination. Without further ado, he turned back, setting several points of the Red Molten Pavilion aze with fierce mes. Under the crisp autumn sky, the mes slowly rose, engulfing the entire pavilion, a fierce ze that lit up the night sky conspicuously.

    A symphony of copsing structures rang through the night, as pirs, screens, courtyards, and tassels were consumed by the fire, a spectacle of destruction and untamed fury under the moonlit sky.

    Watching as the fire engulfed everything before him, Yun Xiao finally felt a wave of satisfaction wash over him. The cataclysm that unfolded here would undeniably send shockwaves through the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, adding fuel to the anticipatory ze that was the uing Grand Conve.

    But who could possibly suspect that Yun Xiao was the mastermind behind this act of chaos and arson? It seemed no one had a vivid enough imagination to fathom such a scenario. Normally, even a person with the strongest Sword Heart could at best kill a single adversary, not annihte an entire family.

    Blue Star piped up, its voice tinged with a mischievous lilt. "Well, you''ve plundered and burned your way through. You''re just missing one thing toplete the tyrant''s handbook. Feeling better now?"

    "What thing?" Yun Xiao asked, raising an eyebrow in curiosity.

    "You know, ying the tyrant, murder, pige, ra¡ª" Blue Star replied, tiptoeing around the euphemism with a sarcastic grin on his face.

    "Nope, no way! There''s some lines you don''t cross, especially as a cultivator." Yun Xiao''s face scrunched up in pure refusal.

    <i>But annihting whole families and robbing people blind is fine...? </i>Blue Star and Red Moon exchanged a nce, an awkward silence settling between them.

    As the inferno continued its dance of destruction, nearing them with each passing second, Yun Xiao spun on his heels, disappearing into the cover of darkness.

    "They areing." No sooner had he reached the foot of the mountain than he looked up to see numerous sword rays soaring towards the burning pavilion. The Third Sword Peak was plunged into utter chaos, a cacophony of noise erupting from the panic-stricken crowd.

    The reflection of the raging mes flickered in Yun Xiao''s eyes, steeling his resolve with every heartbeat., "Whoever seeks to kill me, I shall obliterate. This is my vengeance, my satisfaction. This is my path as an Immortal!

    "Anyone who disagrees can hold their tongues!" With a resolute nod to himself, Yun Xiao dered, "Let''s go! Time to head back home and find Senior Sister Zhao for a well-deserved drink to toast to the second half of thepetition."

 Chapter 031 - Swords, Blood, Fleeting Life!

    <h4>Chapter 031 - Swords, Blood, Fleeting Life!</h4>

    At the Third Sword Peak, mes reached sky high, heralding a night of autumnal carnage that caught the attention of every Sword Cultivator for miles. The sky was marred with plumes of thick smoke, stretching far and wide, a visual testament to the forest that was now engulfed in the fierce ze. This was the night sandwiched between the Sword Debate and the Grand Conve, a night that was expected to be vibrant given the explosive events of the daytime contest.

    However, the fire that ravaged the Red Molten Pavilion had spiked the fervor to unforeseen levels, bing the hot topic among all members of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    When Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue arrived at the scene, the disciples and elders from the Third Sword Peak had managed to put out the raging fire. But the vibrant Red Molten Pavilion had been reduced to nothing but charred earth, leaving the thousands gathered around it wearing expressions of puzzlement and shock.

    "Where is Wu Wu?" Ye Tiance bellowed, his eyes as cold as steel, addressing a crowd of elders and disciples gathered at the base of the peak.

    The crowd responded with a chorus of uncertainty, "We have no idea, Sword Venerable!"

    "After the fire started at the Red Molten Pavilion, we searched everywhere for him, but to no avail," another disciple added.

    An elder chimed in, bringing a grim note to the proceedings, "Before the fire, the entire family of the Sword Venerable were supposed to be in the Pavilion. We were waiting for them to join us, to mobilize the final preparations for tomorrow''s Grand Conve."

    "The entire family was inside the Red Molten Pavilion?" Yao Manxue¡¯s eyebrows knitted together tightly. She exchanged a nce with Ye Tiance, both sensing a foreboding undertow pulling at the edges of their consciousness.

    "Search for them, now!" Ye Tiance ordered. At hismand, hundreds of Sword Cultivators scoured the charred remnants, leaving no stone unturned. Soon, one of them reported, "Sword Venerable, there''s no one here!"

    "What about the bodies?" Ye Tiance shouted, his voice echoing ominously.

    "There are none."

    "No one?" Ye Tiance exhaled slightly, his voice softening, "If there were casualties, even the fierce fire would have left behind some bones."

    Then, Yao Manxue voiced the question hanging heavily in the night air, her voice tinged with disbelief, "Where could the entire Wu Family have gone? Their home has been reduced to ashes, yet there''s no sign of them?"

    "We continue the search, scour all of Azure Spirit!" Ye Tiancemanded, his voice resounding like thunder in the night sky.

    "Yes, Sword Venerable!"

    And just like that, thousands of Sword Cultivators took to the sky, their Sword Souls painting brilliant strokes of color across the dark canvas of the night sky. The news spread like wildfire, reaching every corner of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. A frantic search for the entire Wu Family was underway.

    "Something is amiss here," Ye Tiance muttered, his hawk-like eyes scanning the ruins meticulously. "At the entrance of Wu Wu''s residence stood a pair of golden lions, and inside, numerous invaluable items. All of which were impervious to fire. Yet now, everything is gone, plundered clean." His face contorted with rage as he spoke.

    Yao Manxue''s voice shook as she pieced together the implications, "Their home is burnt, looted. Over a dozen members of the family, all missing. And considering they were likely all in the Red Molten Pavilion before the incident... are you suggesting they might have met a tragic end, even though no bodies have been found?"

    Ye Tiance''s eyes swirled with a cold fury that seemed to freeze the very air around them. "If in half an hour, we find no trace of Wu Wu and his family, it''s almost certain someone annihted them, erasing every trace down to their bones."

    "Father! Who could have done this?" Ye Tianyuan, the Top Sword of the First Sword Peak, voiced the question on everyone''s minds, his face a mask of shock and anger.

    Ye Tiance frowned deeply, offering no answer.

    Adding anotheryer to the unfolding mystery, Yao Manxue said with chilling calmness, "My younger sister, Qingqian, has also been missing for several days, with no leads on her whereabouts."

    "There''s also my Twelfth Junior Brother, Wang Feng. He didn''t even participate in the Sword Debate today..." Ye Tianyuan''s eyes quivered, an unsettling feeling creeping over him.

    They all turned their gaze towards Ye Tiance.

    "If Wu Wu and his family really met with disaster, it implies there''s a power lurking in the shadows, opposing us," Ye Tiance stated, his voice carrying a hint of deep contemtion.

    "Could it possibly be the work of a single individual...?" Ye Tianyuan interjected, his voice edged with a cold tremble.

    "It could be, but if it''s a single person who managed to annihte Wu Wu and his family without drawing any attention, their strength might surpass even mine..." Ye Tiance paused before shaking his head, more inclined to believe in the involvement of an entire faction.

    "Issue the order. Ignite the Azure Spirit Cauldron me and alert all the Sword Cultivators!" Ye Tiancemanded the group behind him.

    "Yes, Sword Venerable!" Immediately, a group dispersed to carry out the order.

    The Azure Spirit Cauldron me! This was a signal for full sect alert, ready for battle at any moment. The moment the me zed, an azure fire soared into the sky, visible throughout the sect.

    "Our only enemy is the Sword Pavilion!" Ye Tiance''s eyes flickered with a cold light as he looked towards the direction of the main peak of Azure Spirit.

    "You mean to say, the Sword Pavilion has reinforcements?" Yao Manxue asked.

    "That''s the strange part! If the Sword Pavilion had top-notch allies, they would have gone all out against us three years ago, why wait until now?" Ye Tiance furrowed his brows deeply.

    "Exactly! Zhao Jianxing is a loner and stubborn,cking social grace and finesse, barely having any friends," Yao Manxue added with a sarcastic smile. If it wasn''t so, they wouldn''t dare to manipte and toy with the Sword Pavilion as they were doing.

    Everyone waited around the Red Molten Pavilion for a while. But there was still no news about Wu Wu and his family..

    "It''s almost certain, their family has perished," Ye Tiance said, his eyes simmering with an intense murderous intent as he surveyed the ruins.

    Yao Manxue''s expression mirrored his, bing increasingly stern.

    "Manxue, Elder Fan must already be aware of this incident. You should go and reassure him," Ye Tiance suggested.

    "Alright."

    "Subtly inquire about his stance, and try to ascertain whether we might have had a misunderstanding with someone," Ye Tiance added. He was a cautious man, meticulously distinguishing friend from foe, never intending to provoke someone they couldn''t afford to antagonize.

    "Understood." Compared to the burly Wu Wu, Yao Manxue, being a woman, naturally needed to be more diplomatic and so enjoyed a deeper trust from Ye Tiance.

    "What about you?" Yao Manxue asked, turning her gaze back to Ye Tiance.

    "Tonight, Wu Wu arranged for a Demonic Cultivator to kill the Sword Pavilion''s disciple, Yun Xiao, but ended up having him and his family face annihtion instead... I''m going to the Sword Pavilion to take a look," Ye Tiance dered, his voice cold and stern.

    "You suspect it might involve Yun Xiao?" Yao Manxue narrowed her eyes in inquiry.

    A thought flickered in Ye Tiance''s mind as he turned to his son, Ye Tianyuan, asking, "Did Wang Feng and Yao Qingqian have any interactions with Yun Xiao?"

    "Sister Yao was overseeing the Heavenly Path Trial. After you took in Junior Sister Jiang that day, it was Junior Brother Wang Feng that apanied her and gave her a tour of Azure Spirit..." Ye Tianyuan shared.

    "Is that so?" Ye Tiance''s gaze turned even colder.

    "I''ll first go to Elder Fan, then find Jiang Yue to get a clear picture," Yao Manxue said, preparing to leave.

    "With Ye Guying on our side, Elder Fan will undoubtedly align with us. If he doesn''t know anything, there''s no need to probe too deeply," Ye Tiance advised.

    "Got it!" Yao Manxue nodded. They couldn''t afford to irritate their esteemed guest, could they?

    "I just received news that the Sea of Swords has shown great interest in Ye Guying, holding him in high regard," Ye Tiance remarked, his eyes burning fiercely. Receiving this good news before the bad had managed to keep his spirits from plunging too deep into dismay.

    "Do you believe something unforeseen has cropped up?" Yao Manxue''s eyes began to gleam with an unexpected sparkle.

    "Mhm, let''s wish him good luck! His future... it''s beyond imagination." With a wave of his hand, dismissing any further discussion, Ye Tiance melded into the cloak of night, leaving the scene with an air of gravity.

    One by one, the others also retreated, each engulfed by the dark embrace of the night, leaving the upants of the Third Sword Peak to manage the affairs thaty ahead.

    Before long, Ye Tiance arrived at the Sword Pavilion. He sheathed his Sword Soul and soared through the night sky, his figure darting gracefully over the dimly lit forest below. As he approached his destination, the distant chatter andughter of young voices reached his ears, creating a harmonious symphony that danced with the whispers of the night wind.

    With eagle-like sharpness, his eyes pierced through the darkness, casting a gaze upon the jovial scene unfolding before him. In front of the grand edifice, a group of young people were engaged in song and dance, theirughter resounding like melodious tunes under the moonlit sky. At the center of it all, a youth dressed in immacte white robes was surrounded, his face flushed from the spirited festivities and copious amount of wine.

    Further in, at the entrance of the Grand Hall, several elders of the Sword Pavilion sat under the canopy of the night sky, watching over the younger generation with protective smiles. Yet inside the Pavilion, there lingered a presence that made Ye Tiance hesitant, even fearful to approach; a forbidding shadow that seemed to hold a fierce power within its grasp.

    Everything seemed so... normal. As if the solemnity that had descended upon Azure Spirit earlier that night had nothing to do with the merry-makers before him.

    Standing there, hands sped behind his back, Ye Tiance remained motionless, absorbing the scene for a good quarter of an hour. His fingers twitched, giving rise to res of sword rays several times, yet each time, he managed to forcefully suppress the urge that threatened to overtake him.

    Finally, with a cold and somewhat morbid chuckle, he turned on his heel and retreated into the shadows from whence he came.

    "He''s gone," Blue Star squeaked from Yun Xiao''s arms, who held it in his embrace..

    "Heh," Yun Xiao replied with a cool yet knowing smile, his face bathed in the moon''s glow. He knew that suspicions would naturally gravitate towards him. But did it matter? Ye Tiancecked the imagination to conceive that Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul could amplify the power of Sword Heart twofold, capable of exterminating a whole n.

    The Divine Pir, the Dao Source, the World Embryo¡ªthese concepts were far beyond Ye Tiance''s grasp, weren''t they?

    As the night progressed, the gathering finally sumbed to the luby of the moon, leaving them in slumber''s embrace. Except for a young woman in a ck gown, who sat quietly at the cliff''s edge, her demeanor much more subduedpared to the others. She had not touched a drop of wine that night.

    For her and the elders, this night was fraught with unseen dangers.. Even as the Third Sword Peak became engulfed in mes, and the Azure Spirit Cauldron me was ignited, they refrained from joining the spectacle.

    "Junior Brother Yun." Suddenly, a voice called out to him. Yun Xiao opened his eyes to find a graceful figure standing before him in the dim moonlight.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, what brings you here?" Yun Xiao asked, rising to his feet and brushing off the dust that clung to his robes.

    "We''re out of wine," the woman said, her voice carrying a hint of humor, tinged with the underlying seriousness of the night''s events. Under the gentle embrace of the moonlight, her skin appeared softer and fairer than the driven snow, her long, glossy hair cascading like a waterfall in the tranquil night. Unintentionally, a few strands brushed against Yun Xiao''s face, tickling him slightly.

    "Eh?" Yun Xiao shook his head, gaining some semnce of sobriety.

    "Go buy some more," thedy in the ck gown said.

    "Alright," Yun Xiao nodded. He stepped forward, matching his pace with hers. Senior Sister Zhao was tall and beautifully proportioned, with a figure that was rightfully admired.

    "Drinking so much, can you still fly with your sword?" Zhao Xuanran asked, her beautiful eyes gazing at him with a cool intensity.

    "Elder Wang once said, ''Flying with a sword while drunk brings momentary joy, but tomorrow you might end up buried in a disorderly grave,''" Yun Xiao replied with a drunken grin.

    "..." Zhao Xuanran didn''t know how to retort, bbergasted by the young man''s carefree reply. Taking a deep breath, she transformed her ck Sword Soul into a Sovereign Sword that floated just beneath her. The sword mirrored her¡ªdark like a ck flower, mysterious, coldly beautiful, and tranquil, yet with a power simmering within it akin to a fierce fire burning in her heart.

    With a graceful leap, shended on the sword, and turned to wink at Yun Xiao, inviting him, "Come on."

    "Yes." Yun Xiao stepped onto the sword, his movements slightly unsteady, maintaining a half-step distance from Zhao Xuanran.

    "Before even taking off, you''re already unstable. If we were to fly now, you''d probably fall to your death tonight," Zhao Xuanran remarked calmly, her eyes focused on the path ahead.

    "Seems like it, hehe." Yun Xiao belched, a silly smile spreading across his face.

    "Hold on to something!" shemanded sternly.

    "Where?" Yun Xiao asked, raising an eyebrow at her.

    "My waist," she said, unabashed.

    "R-really?" Yun Xiao reached out, cing his hand around her slender waist. Her softness and the delicate contour of her waist reminded him of a water snake, supple and graceful... For a moment, Yun Xiao felt a rush of blood to his head, as memories of a simr embrace from another night flooded back.

    "I''m only letting youe with me because the Sword Heart is with you, and I don''t want to die," Zhao Xuanran said, her voice wavering slightly as she nced down at Yun Xiao''s hand on her waist.

    "No need to exin, I understand," Yun Xiao said, his eyes squinting in a teasing smile.

    "What do you understand?" she questioned.

    "That I''m younger and more handsome," he replied cheekily.

    "..." Zhao Xuanran nced at him, a nerve popping on her forehead. <i>VROOM! </i>The sword lifted off, soaring into the sky. A gust of wind rushed towards them, filling Yun Xiao''s mouth and nearly blowing him off the sword. Thankfully, his grip was firm enough.

    The night air was icy, its cold tendrils caressing their faces sharply, gradually bringing Yun Xiao to full sobriety. He stood dutifully on the ck Sword Soul, apanying Zhao Xuanran as they rode the wind.

    Looking out across thendscape, under the veil of night, the distant mountains and rivers resembled an enormous mass of ghostly figures moving stealthily. As they soared skywards on the Sovereign Sword, the vista beneath them transformed dramatically. The majestic Immortal pavilions and the serpentine rivers seemed to have shrunk to mere models in a disy. The piercing cold winds raced past them like mischievous spirits, leaving an icy touch on everything it encountered. A deafening silence enveloped thend and sky; a kind of cold that prated deep into the bones, leaving a chilling hush in its wake.

    Yet, amidst this biting cold, a warm current flowed from the willowy waist under Yun Xiao''s hand, granting him a sliver of warmth and connection. The night wind frolicked with her long hair, brushing it against Yun Xiao''s face, neck, and chest. The sweet fragrance of her hair invaded his senses, igniting a flicker of warmth within him. Her garments fluttered gracefully in the night sky, resembling dancing sprites captivating him under the moon''s tender glow.

    "Is this... the path of Immortals?" Yun Xiao found himself muttering, a peculiar moistness clinging to his eyes, leaving his mind somewhat hollow and echoing. A whirlpool of memories, filled with swords, wine, and blood, seemed to twine together in a mncholy dance.

    The world felt vast and deste, yet the warmth seeping from the strands of her hair held aforting heat, making his heart flutter in a sweet, uneven rhythm. A tangible hint of the warmth found on the perilous path of cultivation. The path to immortality was fraught with deceit, battles, and bloodshed, yet also held moments of deep camaraderie and unwavering loyalty unto death.

    In this lifetime, to find someone willing to sail against the biting wind under the sprawling night sky, sharing the bond of a single sword, was a moment to cherish. Words were unnecessary, for the beauty of this moment would be etched in his heart, lingering for a lo¡ª

    "Is this what the Immortal Path is about? Seems like nothing more than a primal urge to me," Blue Star muttered in a philosophical tone.

    "It''s merely a reproductive shackle that Creator has bestowed on living beings to increase their poption. And look, it''se back to bite him in the ass now!" Red Moon chimed in, nodding sagely at Blue Star''s words.

    "Plus, it''s not his own ass that he''s thinking about right now," Blue Star remarked with a click of its tongue, insinuating something rather inappropriate.

    "I... I can''t even...!" Yun Xiao felt his patience rapidly dwindling. He could hardly hold back an expletive. Such a perfect atmosphere, utterly ruined! Their ceaseless banter had shattered the serene and slightly romantic ambiance he felt was developing between him and Zhao Xuanran. He waspletely speechless.

    The most infuriating part was that the little two-headed beast was engaged in this self-conversation with such grave seriousness, as if discussing the deepest philosophies of life! Just like that, his mojo was ruined and any desire to spice up the mood was thrown to the wind. So, the journey continued on in silence.

    Soon, the destination came into view, nestled between the mountains of Azure Spirit. The valley below was aglow with myriad lights, resembling a dazzling pearl set amidst the mountainous canvas.

    "This is the Sword Cloud Walk," Zhao Xuanran remarked, breaking the silence. The bustling ce was a haven for the Sword Cultivators of Azure Spirit, a marketce to trade and acquire various cultivation resources. It housed many shops, including the famed Spirit Treasure Pavilion, making it the vibrant heart of the Azure Spiritmunity.

    They had arrived to buy wine, the primary motive of their journey, and as the bustling activity of the Sword Cloud Walk enveloped them, Yun Xiao''s intoxication seemed to dissipate, reced by a renewed sense of rity.

    Peering below, Yun Xiao remarked, "There are quite a lot of people here, Senior Sister Zhao."

    Zhao Xuanran''s eyes remained fixed ahead as she responded, a hint of nervous tension discernible in her voice, "Tomorrow is the Grand Conve, and the Spirit Treasure Pavilion has set up a betting ring, making it even livelier."

    As two began their descent, the biting cold of the night seemed to relent, giving way to a more tolerable chill. Zhao Xuanran''s voice, now slightly hoarse, rang out, "Junior Brother Yun, do you wish to return on my sword?"

    A grin spread across Yun Xiao''s face as he answered without hesitation, "Yes!"

    "Then keep your grubby hands still and stop wandering up!" Zhao Xuanran reprimanded sternly, her face blushing a vibrant hue.

    Caught in the act, Yun Xiao could only muster an awkward silence, a sheepish grin stered on his face.

 Chapter 032 - A Life Ended With One Sword Strike

    <h4>Chapter 032 - A Life Ended With One Sword Strike</h4>

    Inside Sword Cloud Walk, the melodic buzz of conversation swirled amidst the fragrance of fine wine emanating from a corner tavern. The shelves were generously adorned with an array of exquisite liquors, their aroma permeating the very air and igniting the senses.

    "Yun Xiao, your pick." Zhao Xuanran''s luminous eyes twinkled like the morning stars as she stood aside, gracefully gesturing towards the array of choices before them.

    With a casual ease, Yun Xiao requested, "Innkeeper, give me some Daughter''s Red, please."

    <i>SMACK! </i>Before he knew it, a swift tapnded on his forehead. Grimacing, he looked up to find Zhao Xuanran bathed in the soft glow of a white jadentern. Her lips, lightly bitten, adorned a slightly flushed face that radiated a mischievous charm.

    "Lad, no one sells that here," the innkeeper chimed in with a grin that danced across his robust face, a face that bore the markings of many tales spun in the bosom of this vibrant world.

    Brushing off the innkeeper''sments with a wave of her hand, Zhao Xuanran chimed in, "Never mind his nonsense, bring us thirty jars of Monkey Wine instead."

    "At your service!" The bustling tavern was brimming with patrons, yet the innkeeper personally attended to Zhao Xuanran, a testament to her regr patronage.

    Zhao Xuanran retrieved her Pouch of Holding, a quaint little bag embroidered with delicate flowers of her own making, radiating a certain youthful charm. Despite its petite appearance, the pouch swallowed all thirty jars without a hint of bulging.

    Just as they were about to depart, the innkeeper called out, halting Zhao Xuanran in her tracks. "Lil Ran, a moment?"

    She turned back, curiosity alight in her eyes. "Yes?"

    "I''m really sorry about Ye Tiance, his cozying up to the Sea of Swords and scheming to snatch power in Azure Spirit. Your Aunt Yu couldn''t stop them," the innkeeper said,den with a deep and genuine regret.

    With a graceful nod, she assured, "It''s alright. It''s the thought that counts."

    "You take care," the innkeeper said, to which she responded with a gentle affirmation.

    Turning towards Yun Xiao, the innkeeper let out a sigh. "Fortunately, the Sword Pavilion has produced a brave youngd like him. Protect him well, and for at least the next six years, the Sword Pavilion will stand strong."

    The innkeeper then raised his thumb in a gesture of admiration towards Yun Xiao, his voice reverberating with sincerity, "A young hero with an extraordinary demeanor. Your performance today was remarkable. Even we, the disciples of the Second Sword Peak, hold great respect for you!"

    With a modest smile gracing his face, Yun Xiao responded, "Thank you."

    Gazing at Yun Xiao with envious eyes, the innkeeper eximed, "With twenty Dragon Spring Pills and a thousand-year-old demon bone in your possession, the sky''s the limit for you!" This statement stood as a beacon of hope amidst a society reluctantly bowing to authoritative power, hinting that not all had surrendered their spirit to the iron-fisted decree led by Ye Tiance and his followers.

    A sudden uproar from within the grand hall of Sword Cloud Walk interrupted their conversation. "The Spirit Treasure Pavilion lottery has started!" The hall transformed into a buzzing hive of excitement as numerous disciples jostled forward in eager anticipation.

    "ce your bets, everyone!"

    Yun Xiao nced towards the source of themotion, spotting a big bellied man enveloped in a gleaming aura of wealth and opulence. He stood aloft on a tform, twiddling his petite beard between his fingers, a grand smile spread across his face, revealing none other than Qian Kun, the Chief Steward of the Spirit Treasure Pavilion.

    "Betting?" Yun Xiao murmured, slightly confused. This seemed to be a favored pastime among the ordinary popce. Did cultivators engage in this as well? And on an even grander scale?

    "What''s the betting about?" Yun Xiao inquired nonchntly, his curiosity piqued amidst the vibrant chaos unraveling before him.

    "The Spirit Treasure Pavilion runs many different operations. But the simplest and most popr are the oues of matches. For example, something like who''lle out on top between the Sword Pavilion and First Sword Peak in the Sword Debate. Anyone can add to the pool of the side they think will win. The stake can be anything, Spirit Stones, pills, treasures, and more. When the results are unveiled, the winning divides up the losing pool ording to the proportion of the bets," Zhao Xuanran exined, a tinge of anger in her voice.

    Her ire stemmed from the fact that even though the betting had justmenced, scores of Sword Cultivators were already fervently pouring Spirit Stones, pills, and various hard currencies into the First Sword Peak''s pool, leaving the Sword Pavilion''s pool deserted. This stark contrast reflected the grim reality of their current situation¡ªa harsh reversal of their status from three years ago.

    "I don''t understand," Yun Xiao interjected, brow furrowed in confusion. "Given these rules, if no one is cing bets in our Sword Pavilion''s pool, what is there for those betting on the First Sword Peak to gain?"

    Zhao Xuanran sighed. "That fatass at the Spirit Treasure Pavilion baited the pool by cing some valuables in the Sword Pavilion''s pool to start."

    "Really?" Yun Xiao stepped forward to inspect, and to his surprise, found a substantial number of Spirit Stones already in the Sword Pavilion''s pool. "But Senior Zhao Xuanran, if we aren''t participating in the Grand Conve, isn''t adding to our pool the same as giving them away for free?"

    Zhao Xuanran shook her head. "During the payout, the Spirit Treasure Pavilion will take a certain percentage from all the pools. Besides, they''ve devised over a dozen gambling methods that ensure they won''t incur losses."

    Yun Xiao paused, then muttered with a begrudging nod, "True, the house never loses. The Spirit Treasure Pavilion wouldn''t have orchestrated this gamble without a foolproof strategy to guarantee their profits." He then added with a more thoughtful expression, "The betting between our Sword Pavilion and the First Sword Peak also serves as a public announcement of sorts. The freebie demonstrates the Spirit Treasure Pavilion''s sincerity, making betters even more enthusiastic."

    In simpler terms, it was akin to offering a sweetener to stir up the excitement. No matter who it was, they would be enticed to throw something into the First Sword Peak''s pool for good luck, despite the small gains to be had from the baited pool.

    The sheer volume of assets already in the First Sword Peak''s pool was testament to the strategy''s effectiveness, with over 100,000 Spirit Stones umted, dwarfing the other pools. The Spirit Treasure Pavilion disciple in charge of registrations was nearly smoking from the ears, buried under the chaotic rush of transactions. Making money, it seemed, wasn''t as easy as it looked.

    "Damn fatass..." Yun Xiao muttered, patting his pockets for something to wager. Sadly, all the valuable items he had scavenged from the Third Sword Venerable had been gobbled up by the small ck creature he harbored, who was still in the middle of digesting its feast.

    "Let''s head home," Zhao Xuanran suggested, her demeanor ice-cold. This betting charade was nothing short of a humiliating spectacle for them, and the further they stayed, the more it grated on their nerves.

    However, as luck would have it, at their most vexed moment, they attracted unwanted attention, like flies to rotting meat.

    "Zhao Xuanran?" a taunting voice echoed from behind them.

    Yun Xiao and Zhao Xuanran spun around, finding themselves face to face with a group of young men and women radiating an aura of grandeur, their features sharp and attractive. Leading the group was a hawk-nosed individual with piercing eyes and a sinister gaze, bearing a striking resemnce to the First Sword Venerable, Ye Tiance. It was none other than his son and fifth disciple, Ye Tianyuan.

    Surrounding Ye Tianyuan were his fellow First Sword Venerable disciples¡ªthe sixth, eighth, tenth, and eleventh¡ªXia Huai, Tao Liang, Xu Qian, and Qi Yuxuan. In the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, these five wielded renowned reputations as prodigious Sword Cultivators, each possessing a Sword Soul of at least Comet grade.

    Furthermore, for tomorrow''s Grand Conve, these five would be the leading force of the First Sword Peak. Had Yun Tianyi and Lan Xiao not met their ends, the First Sword Peak would be even more formidable. And the man responsible for their demise? None other than Yun Xiao.

    So, when enemies met, the atmosphere was thick with tension and red-hot animosity.

    The audacity of Yun Xiao, who was supposed to face a gruesome fate this very night, to strut so boldly into the bustling Sword Cloud Walk was almost beyond belief. The Sword Venerable disciples'' eyes flickered with murderous intent.

    If not for the presence of Zhao Xuanran, regardless of Yun Xiao''s superior status as the Sect Master''s disciple, they would''ve leaped into action.

    Upon recognizing this group, Zhao Xuanran barely spared them a nce.

    "Halt!" Ye Tianyuan''s voice was as piercing as a shard of ice. "Zhao Xuanran, do you remember the Sword Sealing Formation from a year ago?" he taunted. The Sword Venerable disciples around him snickered, their faces dripping with mockery. But to their astonishment, before the words fully left his lips, a ck flying sword surged towards them!

    <i>CLINK! </i>The ck Sword Soul came to an abrupt halt just above Ye Tianyuan''s lips. A chilling wind ruffled his hair, and the palpable intent to kill climbed down his spine, chilling him to the bone. Had the sword moved just a hair''s breadth further, he would have been a goner. At that perilous moment, Ye Tianyuan was paralyzed, frozen to the spot. Fury mixed with humiliation boiled within him.

    "How dare you!" Emerging from the group was a middle-aged man d in a ck robe. He swiftly pulled Ye Tianyuan and the others behind him, cing himself as a protective barrier. With a face contorted in rage, he bellowed at the woman in the ck gown before him. "Zhao Xuanran! How dare you raise a hand against the core members of my First Sword Peak in front of everyone? They are the linchpins for tomorrow''s Grand Conve! Are you looking to vite the Azure Spirit Laws and face the collective wrath of the Seven Sword Venerables?"

    It had been his idea for Ye Tianyuan and the others to provoke Zhao Xuanran and Yun Xiao, using words as weapons, hoping to pressure Yun Xiao into joining the Grand Conve. He hadn''t anticipated that Zhao Xuanran''s retaliation would be so swift and nearly fatal.

    Everyone around was visibly shaken, cold sweat trickling down their spines.

    "Ye Tianzhao?" Zhao Xuanran''s brows furrowed as she looked at the man in the ck robe. Just hearing the name, one could tell he was closely rted to the First Sword Venerable.

    "Jumping straight to murder over a few words? Do you think Azure Spirit is your personal yground?" Ye Tianzhao boomed, his voice echoing across the hall, intentionally drawing attention.

    Yun Xiao caught on quickly. This man wanted to make a scene, attract a crowd, and then shame, goad, and mock him, pressuring a greenhorn like him into repeating Zhao Xuanran''s past of facing a horde of opponents alone.

    True enough, the cultivators who hade to ce their bets were now turning their heads, their attention captured.

    Under the gaze of countless eyes, Zhao Xuanran stepped in front of Yun Xiao, mirroring what Cai Maomao had described as a hen protecting its chick. The feeling of safety was palpable, but so was the feeling of scrutiny.

    "The First Sword Peak bunch has the gall to show their faces again," someone muttered, barely suppressing their disdain.

    "Do they actually find pride in the fact that over a hundred of them managed to beat Zhao Xuanranst year? It''s embarrassing if you ask me."

    "Bringing up the Sword Sealing Formation again... what shamelessness."

    The gathering crowd wasn''t exactly painting the picture Ye Tianzhao had envisioned. Still, it did nothing to deter their ns of pressuring Zhao Xuanran.

    <i>Insult Zhao Xuanran, provoke Yun Xiao!</i> Ye Tianzhao had orchestrated it all meticulously, a sinister grin etched on his face as he prepared to strike verbally.

    But fate had different ns! Zhao Xuanran, with her characteristic icy demeanor, interrupted, "Ye Tianzhao, you just mentioned they''re participating in tomorrow''s Grand Conve, and so shouldn''t be killed, correct?"

    "Of course you aren''t allowed to kill them! What kind of nonsense question is that? The Azure Spirit Sword Sect has its own rules. You b¡ª" Before Ye Tianzhao could finish his mocking statement, a deadly shadow abruptly silenced him, darting straight to his mouth. In an instant, a ck Flying Sword prated through his mouth and emerged from the back of his head, bringing a horrifying mix of crimson and white matter with it.

    He hit the ground, rigid and lifeless, without even a final twitch. A sickening stillness pervaded the area, every pair of eyes fixed on Zhao Xuanran as she coolly retrieved her dark Sword Soul, her voice echoing ominously in the hushed surroundings, "Well, he can die in their stead!"

    It was only after her deration that a ghastly rush of ck blood began to pour from both ends of the sword''s exit wound, painting a grotesque scene that left the crowd paralyzed with shock.

    "Third Uncle!" Ye Tianyuan''s face turned ashen, his voice barely more than a strangled cry. Fear rooted him to the spot, his trembling figure withdrawing three steps into the crowd, unable to take his eyes off Zhao Xuanran.

    "You''ve reached the Establishment Divine Sea Realm!" he eximed in disbelief.

    Whispers and gasps erupted within the crowd, all eyes fixed on the young woman in ck, awe, and fear reflecting in their gazes.

    "At twenty-two, she''s surpassed the older generation, even overtaking her seven senior brothers and sisters," murmured a disciple, referencing the esteemed disciples of the Sword Pavilion.

    Of the Sword Pavilion Seven, she was the eighth, Yun Xiao the ninth. And clearly, none had expected that Zhao Xuanran, after lying low for a year, had ascended to such an astonishing level of cultivation. The bitterness from her defeatst year had forged her into a formidable force.

    "Pity she can''t participate this year. Otherwise, a hundred and twenty of the First Sword Peak disciples wouldn''t stand a chance against her!"

    "Breaking through to the Establishment Divine Sea Realm isn''t as easy as reaching the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm..."

    "That Ye Tianzhao deserved his fate, taunting Zhao Xuanran aboutst year''s Sword Sealing Formation on the eve of the Grand Conve."

    "His smug, petty demeanor was trulyughable."

    The piercing discussions swirling around them fuelled both fear and rage in the remaining disciples of the First Sword Venerable, their faces contorting with an ugly blend of emotions.

    However, fear outweighed the anger. Even Ye Tianzhao, their protector, had been eliminated with a single stroke of the sword. Now, as they gazed at the woman in the ck gown, their hearts couldn''t stop trembling violently.

    "You murdered an elder of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Zhao Xuanran! ording to the rules of our sect, you should be executed!" Ye Tianyuan, with teeth gritted, managed to maintain his stance, showing a semnce of courage.

    "Oh, really? You n to execute me?" Zhao Xuanran''s gaze was as cold and unforgiving as a winter wastnd.

    "You¡ª" Ye Tianyuan was at a loss for words.

    Everyone knew the truth behind the incident three years ago, deep down in their hearts.

    <i>If the First Sword Venerable''s power wasn''t so immense, there would be more than just Ye Tianzhao on Senior Sister Zhao''s kill list! </i>The murmurs echoed in the hearts of the crowd, even though no one dared to voice it out loud.

    "My father will hear about this soon!" Ye Tianyuan stuttered, his voice quaking.

    "Well, he knows where to find me. I''d hate to waste the dwindling lifespan of this Sword Heart I hold," Zhao Xuanran retorted, her voice tinged with an icy mockery.

    "You...!" Ye Tianyuan wanted to curse, to let loose the torrent of anger bubbling within him, but the look in the eyes of the woman before him instilled a fear of death that silenced him.

    "What a waste of space!" Zhao Xuanran''s contemptuous remark felt like a p across Ye Tianyuan''s face, an unbearable insult. Ironically, their group who had initially intended to humiliate her were now the ones being shamed, their reputations in tatters.

    Ye Tianyuan cast a nce around and noticed several people shaking their heads at him, disdain apparent in their eyes. As the son of the first Sword Venerable, he had never endured such treatment before. However, dare he retaliate? No, he didn''t dare! The chilling realization of Ye Tianzhao''s death made him swallow any words that threatened to spill, his throat feeling icy.

    <i>Dammit! What''s the point of the Azure Spirit Laws? They''re nothing but a sheet of nk paper! </i>With this thought, he could only re fiercely at Yun Xiao. "If you don''t show up at Conve Mountain tomorrow, then all the people who have died in Sword Pavilion in thest three years would have died in vain!" With a cold smile, he turned to leave, followed by his junior brothers and sisters.

    His departure might have been full of bravado, but it only incited a wave ofughter from the crowd.

    "What a disgrace!"

    "I can''t stopughing."

    "He had a mouthful of insults ready to throw at Senior Sister Zhao yet before he could even open his mouth, he was silenced by a single strike from her."

    "I must say, our Senior Sister Zhao is as fiery as ever!"

    ...

    Most of thesements came from disciples of the Second and Fourth Sword Peaks.

    With Ye Tianyuan''s ignominious exit, themotion finally came to an end.

    "What a thrilling night. First, the disappearance of the entire family of the Third Sword Venerable, and now, the Chief Law Enforcer of the First Sword Peak being killed by a disciple of the Sect Master..."

    "It''s a pity, though. There''s no suspense for the Grand Conve tomorrow. The Azure Spirit Cauldron will continue to favor the First Sword Peak."

    Despite the exhration of the moment, the crowd couldn''t help but feel a sense of resignation towards the future.

    "Let''s go home," Zhao Xuanran turned to Yun Xiao and said softly. In contrast to her previous aloof demeanor, she now exuded a gentleness that felt like a warm spring breeze, caressing the soul.

    "Senior Sister Zhao," Yun Xiao pursed his lips, his eyes locking onto hers.

    "What is it?" she asked, her voice tender yet filled with an unspoken strength.

    "What''s the Sword Sealing Formation?" Yun Xiao asked, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes.

    Zhao Xuanran hesitated before finally admitting, her teeth gritted with a sort of resentment that seemed to seep deep into her bones, "It''s nothing special, really. Just a way to seal off the battlefield on Conve Mountain. No matter how the fight turns out, the elders are forbidden to intervene."

    Understanding dawned on Yun Xiao. Justst year, she had faced a grueling battle within that very formation, pitted against a staggering one hundred and twenty disciples from the First Sword Peak. The odds had been horribly against her and, unsurprisingly, she''d been defeated. He knew all too well the extent of the injuries she''d sustained, a testament to a vicious and unfair fight.

    "It''s utterly disgraceful of them! One hundred and twenty of them against a single woman, and they have the gall to use it to insult you," Yun Xiao''s eyes shed dangerously, a storm brewing within them.

    Zhao Xuanran''s gaze, however, held an abyssal depth, a mingling of profound understanding and grim eptance. "Let''s not dwell on it. In the cutthroat world of the Immortals, only victory matters. Whether you lose or die, it''s all deserved."

    Their eyes met, sharing a heavy silenceden with mutual understanding. Yun Xiao could feel the weight of her words, and bit his lip in a gesture of frustrated agreement.

    "Right," he murmured.

    Suddenly, his gaze shifted towards the direction of the Sword Pavilion betting pool. "Do you have any Spirit Stones?" he asked, an impish twinkle appearing in his eyes.

    She raised an eyebrow, a small smile ying on her lips. "What do you want to buy? I''ll get it for you."

    "I was thinking of borrowing some," Yun Xiao replied, attempting to sound nonchnt.

    "You don''t need to borrow. Just tell me how much you need, I''ll give it to you," she offered generously.

    His face lit up with a grin that was a tad too mischievous. "In that case, how about 100,000?"

    Her eyes widened and she gave him a bbergasted stare before scoffing, "Why don''t you just go rob someone at this rate?" The number was preposterous, even as a joke. A hundred thousand Spirit Stones wasn''t something to be asked for lightly.

    Feeling slightly sheepish, Yun Xiao backtracked, "Maybe borrowing is better after all. How much do you have?"

    "You..." Zhao Xuanran rolled her eyes. Why were all her junior brothers such little gremlins? She sighed and fished out a delicately embroidered Pouch of Holding. After a quick inventory, she said, "After buying the wine, I have a total of 6,969 Spirit Stones left."

    Both of them paused for a moment, the coincidence of the number striking them both. Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle, "Nice!"

    "It''s really just a coincidence, god dammit!" Zhao Xuanran said, a vein popping on her forehead.

    Yun Xiao blinked in surprise, "Should girls be cursing like that?"

    Zhao Xuanran''s face turned stern and she pinched his cheek hard, her voice firm, "Are you looking down on girls? And for your information, I am a woman, not a girl!"

    Yun Xiao could only offer a sheepish smile in response, the pinch leaving a lingering sting.

    Seizing the moment, Yun Xiao snatched the Pouch of Holding from her hands, his grin returning in full force. "I''ll be borrowing this, okay?" And before she could react, he turned and sprinted towards the Sword Pavilion''s betting pool.

    "Hey, what the hell are you doing?" Zhao Xuanran shouted, a sudden sense of foreboding settling in her stomach as she watched him dash away. "Wait up!" she yelled, chasing after him with a mix of amusement and exasperation coloring her face, unable to shake off the uneasy feeling that Yun Xiao was about to stir up some serious trouble.

    "What on earth is Yun Xiao up to?"

    "Holy smokes!"

    "Wow, flirting in public already."

    ...

    The crowd erupted in chaos in an instant, their voices blending into a symphony of disbelief and awe.

    They stood rooted to the spot, a collective gasp hanging in the air, their eyes wide as saucers as they watched Yun Xiao approach the Sword Pavilion''s betting pool. With the swagger of a seasoned gambler, he started shoveling out Spirit Stones from the Pouch of Holding, a handful at a time, and casually tossing them into the pool like a man sowing seeds in a field.

    "Just so we''re clear, these belong to Zhao Xuanran. She''s wagering a grand total of 6,969 Spirit Stones on the Sword Pavilion!" Yun Xiao announced to the spectators, his voice carrying across the space with unapologetic rity.

    "Yun Xiao!" Zhao Xuanran felt as if she''d been struck by lightning, a paralysis of disbelief seizing her in its icy grip. "My booze money! Ah! You...you cutthroat scoundrel, I''ll chop you into pieces, you little shit!" She seemed to have lost all sense ofposure, her face a canvas of rage and betrayal. In a sh, a figure of grace and furyunched towards Yun Xiao.

    "Hold on, hold on!" A rotund figure burst forth, positioning himself valiantly before Zhao Xuanran, his voice a booming promation of justice, "Miss Zhao, please adhere to the rules of our Spirit Treasure Pavilion! A deal is a deal, no take-backs!"

    As his words echoed in the space, Yun Xiao had already emptied the pouch of itsst Spirit Stone. He peeked inside for a good moment, ensuring that besides the alcohol, it was now as empty as a politician''s promises. Then, turning towards Zhao Xuanran with a grin that radiated innocence and youthful charm, he greeted her fiery gaze.

    "Aaah!" Zhao Xuanran''s eyes seemed to spit mes as she pursued Yun Xiao, her resolve forged in the fires of indignation.

    "Crap!" Without missing a beat, Yun Xiao summoned his Sovereign Sword and soared towards the Sword Pavilion, his flight as graceful as it was frantic.

    "You little fiend, taste my sword!" Zhao Xuanran was hot on his trail, her determination echoing in her battle cry.

    The onlookers, a crowd that had grown to epass a thousand individuals, were left dumbfounded by the unfolding drama, their faces a mosaic of shock and amusement.

    Three breathster...

    "What are you all gawking at? Hurry up and im a share of Senior Sister Zhao''s secret stash!"

    "Senior Sister Zhao''s Spirit Stones surely carry her fragrance, a true collector''s item!"

    "Brothers, let''s make it rain! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!"

    In the blink of an eye, the betting pool at the First Sword Peak was overflowing, a mountain of Spirit Stones emerging, a testament to spontaneous wealth distribution.

    "Everyone, let''s give a big thanks to Yun Xiao!"

    "Junior Brother Yun is such a good man."

    "A good man, may you have a lifetime of peace!"

 Chapter 033 - Primordial Birth of Heaven and Earth, Divine Sea Steadies the Vast Lands! (1)

    <h4>Chapter 033 - Primordial Birth of Heaven and Earth, Divine Sea Steadies the Vast Lands! (1)</h4>

    Upon an ancient sea, waves surged,yered upon each other like the lines on an elder''s face, witnessed by none but the beings inhabiting its depths. Above the tumultuous sea fluttered a bird, created entirely out of sword rays. Its wings beat with a resonant force that made the sea roll and countless sword shadows to whiz by, orchestrating a symphony of the wild and the untamed.

    Amidst the roaring storm stood a figure, a beacon of stoicism and resolve. Dressed in a ck and white robe, Ye Guying stood with his hands behind his back. His eyes bore the resolve of steel, unflinching in the face of the bird conjured from sword rays.

    Behind this ethereal bird, amidst the surging clouds and mist, stood an enigmatic sword-shaped tower, shrouded in a mystifying fog. Resounding from the tower was an imposing voice that shook thends for thousands of miles.

    "Ye Guying, just one step left!" the voice rang, echoing through the sky like a thunderp, shaking Ye Guying from his trance.

    He turned his head, and his eyes met the burning gazes of tens of thousands of individuals standing behind him. This wasn''t a gathering of ordinary folk. They were Sword Cultivators, standing with their Sovereign Swords, ready to follow wherever Ye Guying led.

    "Yes!" A deep conviction surged within Ye Guying, brimming in his eyes, illuminating his very being. Taking a deep breath that seemed to draw in the collective anticipation of the masses, he propelled himself towards the bird amidst uproarious cheers, unyielding and undeterred.

    "Ye Guying!" someone called out, halting him mid-flight.

    "What is it?" Ye Guying asked, turning to face the older man who had spoken.

    With a respectful countenance, the elderly figure approached, whispering, "There''s a message from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. It''s regarding yesterday''s Sword Debate."

    "Go on," Ye Guying said, a calm sea amidst the swirling tempest of events.

    The older figure leaned in, whispering a few words into Ye Guying''s ear.

    "What''s his name?" Ye Guying asked, a flicker of urgency breaking through his calm demeanor.

    In hushed tones, the older man uttered two words.

    Ye Guying''s eyes narrowed, a hint of surprise flickering in the depths of his icy gaze. "Yun Xiao?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Sword Pavilion, within an ancient bronze coffin. Yun Xiao was seated amidst nine Primordial Coffins, a meditative figure bathed in an otherworldly light.

    "These golden lion vored Heavenly Dao Sariras are quite tough, aren''t they?" Yun Xiao muttered, his voice tinged with a yful note of frustration. He had been refining them with the Primordial Void Technique for a long time before finally being able to tap into their medicinal effects.

    His haul of Heavenly Dao Sariras this time around was quite good.

    "I''d have even more Spirit Stones if those two didn''t need so much to recover," Yun Xiao mused, reflecting on the treasures he had looted from Wu Wu, which was close to 50,000 Spirit Stones.

    That assassin had been stronger than Yao Qingqian, forcing Blue Star and Red Moon to push themselves past their limits again, causing them to need even more Spirit Stones to recover this time around.

    However, the leftovers after being transformed into Heavenly Dao Sariras were still enough to grant Yun Xiao a decent power boost, allowing his Dragon Spring to sprout a new w, finally possessing five in total.

    Within his Dantian, the Primordial Void Dragon Spring roiled, its power more majestic and vast. He had finally broken through to the Establishment Dragon Spring Realm.

    "I must say, this ancient bronze coffin and the coffin soul beasts, along with their Heavenly Dao Sarira, seem custom-made for the revival of the Creator Immortal!" Yun Xiao remarked.

    With a resolute stance, Yun Xiao rose to his feet, summoning a tide of magic power that swelled with fervent vitality around him. ¡°I''ve recovered another cultivation stage!¡± To others, this process was known as a breakthrough, but he referred to it as a recovery. A genuine rebirth, so to speak!

    ¡°Obviously, this is but a reincarnation through a mortal shell, the soul of an ordinary man acting as a surrogate for the resurrection of the Creator Immortal...¡± Yun Xiao mused with a sense of humor.

    Yun Xiao looked up, directing his question to the blue glow that emanated from the lid of the ancient coffin, known as Blue Star. ¡°Now that the establishment of my foundation isplete, I should be ready to attempt to transform my Dragon Spring into a Divine Sea, right?¡±

    Blue Star remained silent, yet, in the cosmic dance of the early universe depicted on the coffin lid, nebulous characters began to glitter, descending from the heavens to imprint themselves on Yun Xiao¡¯s forehead.

    Yun Xiao''s entire being shivered with the imparted knowledge, his consciousness plunging deep into the Dantian within him. At its core, the five-wed Primordial Void Dragon was nowplete, poised on the brink of a transformative evolution.

    ¡°The Primordial Void births the Heavens and the Earth. The Divine Sea steadies the vastnds,¡± Yun Xiao whispered, as if reciting an ancient scripture, the ten mist-shrouded characters imprinting themselves onto the Primordial Void Dragon which let out a reverberating roar before soaring within his Dantian.

    A deep hum resonated throughout the space, the ancient bronze coffin functioning like the Azure Spirit Cauldron, drawing in the spiritual energy of the cosmos within its confines.

    The Primordial Void Dragon opened its maw wide, engulfing the surging waves of energy with a voracious appetite. A symphony of harmonious vibrations filled the space, as the massive influx of energy caused its body to swell and expand exponentially.

    ¡°From a single point to a vast expanse, so forms the Divine Sea!¡± Yun Xiao eximed, his voice echoing like a sage bestowing wisdom on the world. The Dragon Spring was the singr point, and the Divine Sea, the expanse.

    The transition from Dragon Spring Realm to Divine Sea Realm was basically a process of increasing your own magic power. Despite its seeming simplicity, where even Jiang Yue could break through to it in only three days, the application of the Primordial Void Technique presented its own unique challenge. What Yun Xiao sought to forge was nothing less than a Primordial Void Sea.

    ¡°This Primordial Void Sea is akin to a nascent world birthed amidst chaos, encapsting all elemental forces of the universe¡ªwind, rain, thunder, fire, and myriad Daos both grand and subtle, all converging within it,¡± Yun Xiao mused, his voice carrying the profound depth of his vision.

    Through his previous battles, Yun Xiao hade to understand that the magic power of other people often bore specific attributes. For example, Wang Feng, one of the twelve disciples of the First Sword Venerable, possessed a Desert Sand Sword Soul, his magic power mainly embodying the heavy and oppressive nature of sand and earth.

    In stark contrast, the magic Yun Xiao cultivated through the Primordial Void Technique epassed a vast spectrum of elements, mirroring the Primordial Immortal Ancestor, the forebearer of all Dao in the human realm.

    ¡°In simple terms, the Primordial Void Technique cultivates life!¡± Yun Xiao said, the words epassing life itself, the myriad Daos, and the world¡ªit signified birth.

    ¡°However, my Heaven Burial Sword Soul embodies the ultimate power of death, representing destruction, annihtion, and ughter!¡± Yun Xiao mused. His magic power cultivated life, while his Sword Soul harbored death.

    ¡°The harmonious, evenplementary, coexistence of life and death within me is quite miraculous, isn''t it?¡± Yun Xiao said with a hint of amusement, as he discerned themonality between these seemingly opposing forces.

    Thatmonality was the world itself! The Primordial Void Technique fostered the creation of worlds.

    Simrly, the Divine Pir, the Dao Source, and the World Embryo¡ªeven if they represented worlds of death, they were but fledgling incarnations.

    ¡°Maybe a perfect world epasses both life and death?¡± Yun Xiao pondered, a flicker of revtion sparking within him.

    In the wake of his mysterious rebirth, Yun Xiao found that he had attained a kind of lucidity that pierced through the very marrow of his soul. Answers to questions that once evaded him now flowed easily, forming clear streams ofprehension that epassed the nuances of swordsmanship and theplexities of the Primordial Void Technique he was practicing.

    It seemed as though a gentle mist shrouded the path ahead, but Yun Xiao could peer through it effortlessly, unraveling the intricacies of both the Dao and sword techniques, seizing their very essence with newfound rity.

    "With my refined insights, I might just be the epitome of a perfect, all-rounded prodigy," Yun Xiao said, a smug grin etched itself across his face.

    "Ye Guying, your time of imparting wisdom will soon be at an end. I will show you the true essence of an Immortal!" His voice rang out, resolute andced with a fierce challenge. He would not be an Immortal who wielded the lives of the innocent frivolously, nor unjustly condemned a mere mortal emperor. No, he was on the path to bing the one and only Creator Immortal of ancient times.

    Humming resonated throughout him, a crescendo of vibrational energy emanating from his Dantian, where the five-wed Primordial Void Dragon had absorbed an immense amount of spiritual energy, swelling to an unprecedented size. It was akin to the rapid growth of a fetus, ready to embrace the world in all its glory, turning Yun Xiao''s abdomen into a burgeoning mound, mimicking the stages of pregnancy.

    Blue Star erupted intoughter, its voice echoing with joyous rumbles, "Looking at your belly, you''re at least eight months in, aren''t you? Much more than the mere bloating others experience when they break through to the Divine Sea Realm!"

    Red Moon chimed in with an exhrating mirth that seemed to shake the very foundations of the coffin they were housed in, "Oh oh! I can''t wait until you start nursing!"

    Yun Xiao brushed theirments aside with a leisurely wave, unconcerned with their teasing. His burgeoning belly was a testament to the monumental magic power housed within, magic power that vastly surpassed that of others. It was this very magic power that allowed him to defy the heavens and defeat adversaries like Yun Tianyi and Yao Zijin.

    "At this moment, the Primordial Void Dragon is but a gaseous entity, an expansive, nebulous force. I must condense it, transform it into a vast ocean of energy to establish the Divine Sea," Yun Xiao murmured, eyes narrowing in concentration, inhaling deeply as if drawing upon the essence of the cosmos itself.

    With a powerful exertion of will, Yun Xiao guided the pulsating symbols of the Primordial Void Technique, attempting to reign in the near uncontroble force that the dragon had be, as if seeking to anchor it between heaven and earth.

    "Dragon Spring transforming into the Divine Sea!"

    A thunderous roar echoed as the transition reached its climax, and Yun Xiao''s abdomen quickly deted, returning to its original state. But within him, a qualitative change urred, as the Primordial Void Dragon transformed into a torrential river, establishing a profound Divine Sea!

    Yun Xiao had attained the Divine Sea Realm. His life attribute magic power surged like tumultuous waves, seemingly simple yet embracing aplexity that mirrored the nature of the color white¡ªin at first nce, yet epassing a spectrum of countless hues.

    "One Divine Sea represents the Early Divine Sea Realm!" Yun Xia''s newfound power surged mightily, a vast increase that heralded the initial stages of the Divine Sea Realm, a realm divided into five smaller stages¡ªEarly, Mid, Late, Perfect, and Establishment.

    For reference, Ye Tianyuan was at the Mid Divine Sea Realm, one stage above Yao Qingqian. Meanwhile, Yun Xiao had heard from him today that Zhao Xuanran was in the Establishment Divine Sea Realm.

    "In other words, Senior Sister Zhao has five Divine Seas!." Yun Xiao mused. Within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, possessing the might to y a Chief Law Enforcement Elder with a single sword stroke already spoke volumes of the stage''s immense power.

    But how did you go from one Divine Sea to five? It was quite straightforward! You simply created a second Dragon Spring within your Dantian, nurtured it all the way from one w to five, and performed the Dragon Spring into Divine Sea transformation all over again.

    "Basically, reaching the Mid Divine Sea Realm means cultivating through the Dragon Spring Realm twice. And Senior Sister Zhao... she''s done this five times!" Yun Xiao said thoughtfully. The path of cultivation started off with the formation of a Dragon Spring. Each sessive Dragon Spring was bound to be increasingly arduous..

    Looking down, apart from the first Divine Sea, Yun Xiao could see a new one-w Dragon Spring had begun to form within his Dantian!

    "Although I''m only in the Early Divine Sea Realm, the magic power forged through the Primordial Void Technique, coupled with the increased capacity from my Golden Dantian, should make me considerably stronger than others at the same stage, like Yao Qingqian," Yun Xiao muttered. He realized that his magic power inbination with his Sword Soul was the dual foundation for his superiority over his peers.

    "You''re looking pretty smug, aren''t you?" Blue Star remarked, its gaze bearing a mix of incredulity and amusement.

    "Why not?" Yun Xiao shot back with a shrug. "I mean, I''m stronger than most at my level, right?"

    Blue Star chuckled. "Oh man you crack me up. Sure, Ye Guao''s Golden Dantian gives you a bit more juice, but the Primordial Void Technique? That''s a whole other level. We''re talking a potential power boost of hundreds of thousands times, easily!"

    "Hundreds of thousands?" Yun Xiao stuttered.

    "Minimum. To be honest, bumping it up a billion times would hardly be a stretch." Blue Star retorted nonchntly, a smirk dancing on its lips.

    "A billion times the normal... at the Early Divine Sea Realm?" Yun Xiao continued, his mind reeling from the staggering figures being thrown at him.

    "Exactly."

    "And why''s the jump so huge?" Yun Xiao prodded, curiosity piqued.

    Blue Star rolled its eyes dramatically before exining, "Simple, this is a technique from your previous life, a method of creation, too grandiose to be utilized for something as simple as foundation building. "

    "So, I''m only scratching the surface because I''m basically ying dress-up with the Creator Immortal''s leftovers?" Yun Xiao said, a spark of understanding lighting up in his eyes.

    "Yup. Your current body is too weak. That''s why you''re only able to tap into an infinitesimal fraction of the Primordial Void Technique''s power. With Ye Guying''s Dantian, you might double or triple your power" Blue Star conjectured, an amused glint in his eyes at Yun Xiao''s slow realization.

    "I see..." Yun Xiao muttered, the gravity of his newfound understanding weighing heavily upon him. The Creator Immortal was truly a terrifying existence. It was beyond Yun Xiao''s capacity to even fathom the profound connection between this entity and the Six Ancestral Gods that spanned eons.

    All he was¡ªa mere mortal, striving to survive on the treacherous path of immortality, seeking to live passionately and avenge wrongs. "I must reim the Seed of Creation!" His goal remained steadfast and unchangeable.

    With his purpose renewed, Yun Xiao summoned his power in the Divine Sea Realm, his hands weaving the air as the Heaven Burial Sword Soul materialized. "With fifteenyers of Sword Aura at the Early Divine Sea Realm, my magic breathes life, and my sword takes it away." His eyes zed with unspoken vows and deep-seated resolve as he peered out of the ancient bronze coffin.

    "It''s dawn," he said, a cold fire burning in his gaze. "The Grand Conve starts today. Jiang Yue, your three-day stint as an Immortal prodigy ends now. Rise and shine."

 Chapter 034 - Primordial Birth of Heaven and Earth, Divine Sea Steadies the Vast Lands! (2)

    <h4>Chapter 034 - Primordial Birth of Heaven and Earth, Divine Sea Steadies the Vast Lands! (2)</h4>

    At the break of dawn in Sword Pavilion, the fierce red sun leaped from the eastern sea, casting its glow over the mountains of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, a promise of life reverberating throughout all creation. The bones thaty barren in the night had already turned to duste morning.

    In the Grand Hall bathed in the early rays, a scream erupted.

    "Grandpa Qin! Senior Sister Zhao!" Cai Maomao and the other disciples'' faces transformed into canvases of panic, anxiety written in bold strokes across them.

    "What''s the panic?" Grandpa Qin''s heart stuttered, his voiceced with a rising urgency.

    "Junior Brother Yun...! He''s disappeared!"

    "What?" Grandpa Qin and the three elders''plexions took on a hue resembling damp soil, a silent testament to their sinking hearts.

    Turning around, they beheld a woman in a ck gown exiting the Grand Hall with a serene face. Before they could fullyprehend the gravity of the news, Zhao Xuanran calmly proimed, "He''s gone to the Grand Conve."

    "Why didn''t you stop him?" Grandpa Qin and the others suddenly felt a heaviness that seemed to suck away all hope, their voices shaking with unspoken fears. In the Sword Pavilion, only one had ventured into battle.

    "I couldn''t restrain him," Zhao Xuanran said, her voice echoing in the somber atmosphere as she bypassed them, moving towards the forest beyond. She paused, her eyes quivering slightly as she turned back to face them, "Let''s go."

    "For what purpose?"

    "To protect him!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the foot of Conve Mountain, the morning was buzzing with eager anticipation. The rankings from the Grand Conve determined the resource allocation for the eight branches of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect for theing year, a matter of utmost significance for every individual.

    Propelled by the enthusiastic betting at the Spirit Treasure Pavilion, virtually all the Sword Cultivators of Azure Spirit had congregated at the mountain, awaiting the announcement of the oues with bated breath.

    "Following the Grand Conve, there remains one paramount event!"

    "That is¡ª"

    "To reveal, under the collective gaze of thousands, the Sword Soul grade of that peerless Immortal prodigy, which will shake the very foundation of ournd and bring unprecedented fame to Azure Spirit!"

    That was the moment everyone was fervently awaiting.

    "The First Sword Peak might have faced some setbacks yesterday, but their power today is undeniable, seemingly unstoppable."

    "Indeed, no one from the Sword Pavilion has participated in the Grand Conve, leaving them unrepresented."

    "Honestly, if it weren''t for Swordking Ye deeming the Eight Swords Conve beneath him, the Sword Pavilion''s Yun Xiao wouldn''t even have had a chance to reach the top!"

    Ye Guying! His journey was destined to traverse the vast Sea of Swords. For such a figure to partake in a battle between disciples would be nothing short of a degradation of his stature.

    Whispers carried on the gentle breeze were thick with surprise and admiration. "I didn''t anticipate Jiang Yue disying such courage," a disciple remarked, a tone of grudging respect in their voice. "After the setback she faced yesterday, with injuries yet to heal, she''s here at the Grand Conve."

    Amidst a huddle of stern-faced and valiant disciples at the pinnacle of the First Sword Peak, a young girl draped in a snow-white robe was seen standing defiantly. Her face was partially obscured by a veil, hiding her yet-to-heal wounds. But the glint in her visible eyes revealed an unbroken spirit, glowing with fierce pride and confidence.

    "She possesses the essence of a true Immortal, not a defeated coward," another disciple murmured, nodding appreciatively. "These small hurdles seem insignificant to her."

    "After yesterday''s defeat, I doubt that will ever happen again. She''ll only continue growing exponentially stronger, leaving Yun Xiao in the dust."

    Many in the crowd could only sigh in resignation. The majority of them could empathize with Yun Xiao, as they were in the same mundane category, feeling a sense of powerlessness when faced with Jiang Yue¡¯s prodigious talents.

    "What''s the significance of defeating her twice?" An elder chimed in, an insightful gleam in his eyes. "Life is full of ups and downs, don''t underestimate the rise of a young phoenix. Soon, she may soar high, leaving her past adversaries far below."

    As the pre-battle discussions buzzed with fervent anticipation, seven formations of Sword Cultivators stood impressively before the massive assembly, representing the true elite among countless individuals across the mundane nations.

    Particrly noticeable was the First Sword Peak, enveloped in a solemn atmosphere. It was spearheaded by genius Sword Cultivators¡ª Jiang Yue, Ye Tianyuan, Xia Huai, Tao Liang, Xu Qian, and Qi Yuxuan, each surrounded by swirling sword rays and bearing grave expressions. A battalion of one hundred and twenty Sword Cultivators stood ready, appearing as if a congregation of Sword Immortals had descended upon the mortal realm.

    In the wake of yesterday''s losses, including the death of Yun Tianyi and the others, new disciples had stepped forth to fill the gaps, ready to engage in the imminent battle. The Third Sword Peak, although slightly diminished in power due to the disappearance of core disciples like Wu Jianxiong, still held a formidable presence.

    The square buzzed with gossip. Everyone had something to say about Jiang Yue and the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone. There were also talks about the strange events of the night before. The Third Sword Venerable and his family had vanished without a trace, a mystery that still hung heavy in the air. As if that wasn''t enough,ter that same night, Ye Tianzhao, the Chief Law Enforcement Elder, met his demise. Rumor had it he had crossed Zhao Xuanran and paid for it¡ªa single sword strike had sealed his fate.

    "Ifst night hadn''t been so chaotic, the First Sword Venerable, mourning the loss of his little brother, would have certainly retaliated!" a disciple spected.

    "After the Conve, the Sword Venerable will definitely settle scores," another agreed, nodding gravely.

    "The conflict between the Sword Pavilion and the First Sword Peak has escted to a dangerous level. A battle of life and death is inevitable."

    "I suspect that in the future, those from the Sword Pavilion will not venture out openly. I wonder if the Sword Venerable has the courage to storm the Pavilion and enact a massacre?"

    The crowd nodded, the possibility hanging heavily in the air. Everyone knew the Azure Spirit Sword Sect was merely a coalition of Sword Cultivators; there was no camaraderie or fraternity between the different Sword Peaks.

    "The head of the Sword Pavilion initially united everyone to y demons, fostering unprecedented unity among the various Sword Peaks," someone reminisced with a sigh.

    "Unfortunately, the incident three years ago marked a point of no return for Azure Spirit."

    A tangible sense of regret pervaded the crowd, a collectivement for what could no longer be changed.

    Just then, a cry pierced through the murmurings, jolting everyone to attention. "The people from the Sword Pavilion have arrived!"

    A flurry of reactions followed this announcement, with many disying a mix of shock and pity on their faces.

    "At this stage, even if they havee to witness the battle, returning might not be an option, right?"

    "Why insist oning? Ah..."

    Under theplex gazes of numerous Sword Cultivators, figures like Zhao Xuanran, Grandpa Qin, and a few other Sword Pavilion disciplesnded on Conve Mountain.

    The fervent discussions on the mountain ceased abruptly, reced by an engulfing silence that settled upon the vast summit, where, for a moment, not a single sound could be heard.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>At that very moment, a golden stream of sword rays burst forth from the elevated tform, darting directly towards thedy in the ck gown with a murderous intent.

    The sword rays tore through the sky, emitting a piercing sound, disying more than twentyyers of Sword Aura, a force to be reckoned with. As it soared, the ears of all the Sword Cultivators in the area throbbed in pain, as if unable to bear its fierce momentum.

    "Be careful!" Grandpa Qin shouted, his voiceced with a fear that seemed to pierce through his very soul.

    Faced with this lethal threat, thedy''s delicate eyebrows knitted in determination. A ck sword soul materialized abruptly in her hand, transforming into a Palm Sword. Her hands moved with the swiftness of thunder, gripping the sword tightly and shing ferociously with all her might.

    <i>KLANG! </i>With a resonating sound that seemed to shake the heavens, the golden sword rays were sent flying away. Zhao Xuanran stumbled back several steps, her beautiful hands trembling violently. A trickle of blood escaped from her red lips, a testament to the fierceness of the attack.

    "So powerful!" This scene allowed many anxious spectators to finally exhale a breath they didn''t know they were holding.

    Zhao Xuanran had survived!

    The crowd from the Sword Pavilion had just arrived. Who dared to attempt murder on Zhao Xuanran right in front of the entire sect and the guests without uttering a single word?

    People''s eyes followed the trajectory of the attack, fixating on the elevated tform.

    There, a man with sword-like eyebrows and a hawkish nose stood, casually holding the returning golden Sword Soul between his fingers. His eagle-like gaze scrutinized Zhao Xuanran from a superior position, a position that echoed his formidable power. It was none other than the First Sword Venerable, Ye Tiance.

    "You actually have reached the Establishment Divine Sea Realm, not bad," Ye Tiance remarked, his eyebrows raising slightly in a mock praise, a smile pulling at the corners of his mouth.

    Zhao Xuanran gave him a cold, piercing look. She knew very well that if she hadn''t reached this level of cultivation, she would have already met her death, perhaps without even a chance to utilize her Sword Heart. Although the Sword Heart wasn''t on her, others weren''t aware of this fact.

    "Do you have a death wish?" Zhao Xuanran''s voice rang out, as cold as ice.

    In terms of status, her position as the acting head of the Sword Pavilion was no lesser than the First Sword Venerable.

    At her icy rebuke, Ye Tiance chuckled amusedly, replying, "You tter me with your concern. Unlike you, the favored daughter of the Sect Master, I don''t have the luxury to kill innocents indiscriminately."

    With those words, he turned and greeted the guests seated in the middle of the high tform with a gracious bow and a charming smile, making a mockery of the heated situation.

    "Such sweet words you have there! Had Xuanran not managed to block that attack, she would have been dead!" Elder Wang said, gritting his teeth in anger.

    "Has he not in enough of our Sword Pavilion members over the years?" Elder Zhou added, his anger surging like a tidal wave.

    It was clear to all the onlookers that, once the Eight Swords Conve ended and the guests left, a fierce battle that may not end without death was inevitable between the two parties.

    "Are you alright?" Grandpa Qin asked, his voice trembling with concern.

    "I''m fine," Zhao Xuanran replied, wiping away the blood from the corner of her mouth. However, upon seeing her hands covered in blood, with fissures appearing between her fingers, she gritted her teeth. Reality had demonstrated that she was no match for Ye Tiance.

    "He sure knows how to make an entrance," Grandpa Qin said, his voice heavy with resentment.

    "It''s alright now, let''s find Junior Brother Yun," Zhao Xuanran said, sweeping her gaze across the gathering.

    "He didn''te?" Cai Maomao asked with a hint of joy, thinking that they might be able to leave now. The further they were from Zhao Jianxing, the lesser the restraint Ye Tiance would have.

    "He''s here. But since the Grand Conve hasn''t started, showing himself early might get him killed," Zhao Xuanran exined.

    If Ye Tiance didn''t hesitate to attack her in public, what would stop him from doing the same to Yun Xiao?

    With furrowed brows and mncholy settling over her wizened features, Elder Zheng remarked, a shadow cast in her eyes, "It seems we''ve missed our chance to stop thed."

    A sorrowful grimace marred Qin Grandpa''s face as hemented, "It can''t be helped. He''s young and has a strong sense of justice. Still, there was no need to risk his life like this!" His utterance hung heavily in the air, echoed only by a collective sigh that followed.

    Up on the elevated stage, Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue exchange nces.

    Yao Manxue, her voice chilly as the winter wind, remarked, "Fortunately, Ye Guying and Jiang Yue appeared. Otherwise, in just a few years, Zhao Xuanran would turn into the next Zhao Jianxing. Then, we''d have no way of suppressing her."

    With his eyes drifting towards an empty seat in the direction of the Third Sword Peak, Ye Tiance mused,, "What do you think? Do you think she killed Wu Wu?"

    Yao Manxue shook her head decisively, a frown etched upon her features, "Even with her reaching the Establishment Divine Sea Realm, it seems highly improbable!"

    Ye Tiance, his tone as cold as a winter''s night, conjectured, "When I made a move against her just now, she didn''t utilize the Sword Heart immediately. Maybe it''s already been used?"

    With a sinister gleam in her eye, Yao Manxue proposed, "In that case, should we prevent them from leaving the Conve Mountain once the Conve concludes?"

    Gazing towards the Sword Pavilion, Ye Tiance schemed, "We''ll have to see what Jiang Yue does. If she manages to win over Elder Fan, and with his support, Zhao Jianxing''s death is assured. Once he''s taken care of, figures like Shangguan Yu and Zhang Jian will surely bow to us, bringing unity to Azure Spirit."

    With their attention riveted on Jiang Yue, they acknowledged her pivotal role in harnessing Elder Fan''s power in the unfolding scheme.

    A fierce resolve sparkled in Ye Tiance''s eyes as he dered, "Go announce the start of the Grand Conve!"

    Yao Manxue reminded him hesitantly, "The appointed time has not yet arrived..."

    Wearing a smile that promised swift resolutions, Ye Tiance asserted, "The sooner it starts, the sooner it ends. A quick victory will help us solidify control over the Azure Spirit Cauldron and set the stage for a united front!" This ambition fuelled his directive to his disciples: not only to win but to secure a victory so dazzling that it would send shockwaves through all the sword lineages.

    Turning towards Yao Manxue, he shared his grand vision, "Once this is achieved, I''ll assume the position of Sect Master and you''ll be the Deputy. From here on, the Azure Spirit Sword Sect will no longer be a coalition but ruled solely by us."

    "Yes!" Her eyes aze with fervor, Yao Manxue nodded vigorously, envisioning her enhanced authority and power in the newly structured leadership where she stood as the prime Deputy Sect Master.

    Embracing the limelight as she stepped forward, Yao Manxue was a vision of grace and unmatched allure, her announcement setting hearts aflutter amongst the crowd gathered.

    "I hereby dere themencement of the Grand Conve!"

 Chapter 035 - Primordial Birth of Heaven and Earth, Divine Sea Steadies the Vast Lands! (3)

    <h4>Chapter 035 - Primordial Birth of Heaven and Earth, Divine Sea Steadies the Vast Lands! (3)</h4>

    A wave of anticipation surged through the gathered masses, each participating disciple''s heartbeat thundering in their chests.

    Yao Manxue''s gaze swept across the crowd before settling on the one hundred and twenty talented individuals of the First Sword Peak.

    "The first round of battles will seest year''s Eight Swords Conve champions facing the eighth-ce contenders. Representatives from the First Sword Peak and the Sword Pavilion, please make your way to the battlefield for the Grand Conve!"

    Her deration echoed ominously, a stark reminder of the sh that had once been the pinnacle of the Eight Swords Conve three years ago, now seemingly reduced to a farcical spectacle. Regardless, traditions held strong, and the ceremonial duel had to proceed.

    Urging his fellow disciples with a flourish, Ye Tianyuan cast aside the gloom that had clouded his spirit the night before, exuding an energetic vibe and a predatory desire for battle, mirroring the grandeur of the First Sword Venerable.

    "Junior Sister Jiang, after you!"

    "Yes!" Jiang Yue replied.

    Ye Tianyuan and Jiang Yue, together with one hundred and twenty disciples from the First Sword Peak, descended onto the battlefield with a synchrony that bespoke of power and grace.

    Young Sword Cultivators, effulgent and gant, stood together. Dressed in billowing robes that danced with the gentle breeze, they radiated a sharp aura that intertwined and pulsated like the beating heart of the earth. Adorning their backs was the embroidered character <i>One¡ª</i>a bold statement proiming their superiority over all others.

    "Present and ounted for, one hundred and twenty disciples of the First Sword Peak!" Ye Tianyuan announced with vigor, his voice reverberating across the mountains, a testament to their valiant spirit and soaring ambitions.

    Grandiose! Heroic! An embodiment of dreams and envy, they stood there as luminous as the noonday sun, the quintessence of the First Sword Peak''s splendor.

    Then, Yao Manxue''s voice sliced through the charged atmosphere like a de, her words tinged with a scorn that was as palpable as it was visible in her disdainful nce towards Zhao Xuanran, "Disciples of the Sword Pavilion, you have twenty breaths to enter the battlefield, or automatically be disqualified!"

    A sudden hush enveloped the gathering, an oppressive silence that echoed louder than any words.

    "Over the past three years, the Sword Pavilion''s ranks have dwindled, leaving only Senior Sister Zhao topetest year."

    "And this year, there''s no one!"

    Within the seven Sword Peaks, many had once been disciples of the Sword Pavilion. Yet now, they stood on the Conve Mountain, fighting for other Sword Peaks. Remaining in the Sword Pavilion seemed a path leading nowhere, a cruel and harsh reality that left many sighing in resignation, helpless but toment the passage of time.

    At this moment, the only sounds to be heard were the cold, aloofughter from the disciples of the First Sword Peak, interspersed with the asional sighs of regret.

    Yet, just when the reality seemed to settle, the heavens split open, giving way to a streak of azure light that descended from the sky!

    Yun Xiao arrived, riding his sword!

    <i>HUM! </i>Dressed in flowing white robes, he descended gracefully, a solitary figure apanied by his sword, stirring up a tempest as hended before the one hundred and twenty proud disciples of the First Sword Peak. With the might of the Divine Sea Realm, he transformed the battlefield into a maelstrom of flying sands and pebbles.

    As all eyes widened in shock, the young man in white danced in the wind, his long hair fluttering like a banner of defiance. His eyes shone with the brilliance of the brightest stars, his face mirrored the celestial grace, and his presence exuded the ethereal beauty of clouds drifting in the highest heavens.

    "The Sword Pavilion enters the fray! Expected, one person. Present, one person!" Yun Xiao announced, his voice booming like a dragon''s roar, echoing through the Conve Mountain, resonating in every individual''s very soul.

    "So cool!" From among the First Sword Peak''s ranks, a young girl couldn''t contain herself. Her eyes twinkled with stars as she yelled from the depths of her being.

    <i>SWOOSH! </i>Heads turned towards her in unison. Feeling the piercing gazes, she hurriedly stammered an exnation, her voice tinged with fear, "Err... I-I meant Senior Brother Ye Tianyuan..." Before she could finish her statement, the Conve Mountain erupted into a tumultuous uproar.

    "Holy smokes!"

    "Damn, this guy''s truly a divine beauty!"

    With godly looks apanied by an equally godly entrance, even many of the men present found their hearts stirred, swept up in the undeniable charisma that seemed to resonate with everyone who beheld the sight. It was a scene that captured hearts, transcending barriers, uniting them all in awe and admiration.

    "In terms of looks alone, this young man single-handedly overshadows those one hundred and twenty from across the field."

    Though appearance often held little merit on the path of immortality, the striking visual impact it could asionally offer was, indeed, soul-stirring. Yet, even more astounding was Yun Xiao''s valor.

    Announcing himself as the sole participant, Yun Xiao exhibited a mettle akin to one willing to face countless adversaries alone, dwarfing the prowess of the one hundred and twenty elite Sword Cultivators of the First Sword Peak with his mere presence and a single sword.

    The whole venue quaked with excitement! A year ago, Zhao Xuanran had done the same, her bravery earning the respect of many. To die defending one''s dignity sounded simple, yet who could truly achieve it?

    People had assumed that no one from the Sword Pavilion would dare to risk death like this again. Yet at this moment, the young man in white stood tall with an even grander demeanor, effortlessly suppressing the formidable cultivators of the First Sword Peak. His face radiated confidence, as if hemanded an unseen army of thousands behind him.

    "Did he realize the thousand-year-old demon bone was too good for him and decide to hand-deliver it to Tianyuan instead?" Yao Manxue couldn''t help butugh after a brief moment of shock.

    Yao Manxue nced back to find Ye Tiance sharing her astonishment, before he broke into a grin, remarking, "Interesting."

    "Indeed, a thousand-year-old demon bone is quite a valuable item." Yao Manxue nodded.

    "Yeah, now that the meat is delivered to our doorstep, we won''t let it slip away," Ye Tiance''s cold eyes flickered menacingly.

    At this point, every Sword Cultivator on Conve Mountain was still marveling at Yun Xiao''s bravery.

    The buzz of conversation grew louder. Though everyone knew he was headed for a tragic end, defending the honor of the Sword Pavilion like a moth to a me, his courage and determination had already won the admiration of many Sword Cultivators.

    Ye Tiance observed all this, a growing irritation festering within him. What he despised the most were the unyielding spirits within the Sword Pavilion. First, it was Zhao Jianxing and the seven prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, followed by Zhao Xuanran, and now, this young and seemingly naive Yun Xiao. Though he was smiling, his anger was palpable.

    "Begin!" Ye Tiance moved to the rear of the stage, where a stone pir stood.

    <i>BANG!!</i> With a forceful strike, he smacked the stone pir. As the pir sunk, the entire Conve Mountain began to tremor.

    <i>HUM! </i>Suddenly, intricate sword patterns appeared on the battlefield, intertwining and forming a semi-spherical array that encapsted thebat zone.

    Yun Xiao and the one hundred and twenty prideful disciples of the First Sword Peak found themselves trapped within.

    "The Sword Sealing Formation!" The crowd gasped in shock. With the formation in effect, no one outside could intervene in the battlefield. As for who had activated it, everyone''s eyes turned unanimously towards the stage. There stood Ye Tiance, a smug grin on his face, hands held behind his back in a rxed manner, the picture of cruel amusement etched onto his features.

    "But that''s not right, is it? The Sword Sealing Formation can only be initiated with the agreement from both sides, and the Sword Pavilion hasn''t consented!" a spectator cried out, the raw frustration in his voice echoing in the space, a stark contrast to the sneers of those who supported the formation''s activation.

    "Exactly! How could the First Sword Venerable take such unteral action...?" another chimed in, their voice carrying the collective disbelief of many who gathered there. All gazes converged on the members of the Sword Pavilion, finding them as stunned as the rest.

    Ye Tiance! What do you think you''re doing?" Grandpa Qin thundered, the veins on his temples throbbing ominously.

    Ye Tiance merely leaned in, his smile widening with faux innocence. "Doing what? Wasn''t it your request to activate the Sword Sealing Formation?" he asked, his voice dripping with mockery.

    Grandpa Qin''s face turned a furious shade of red, contrasting vividly with his white hair. "You''re talking nonsense! We said no such thing!" he retorted, the anger bubbling within him threatening to explode.

    The crowd seemed to be caught in a whirlpool of lies and deceit as Ye Tiance cast a sly nce at them, fueling the mes further. "Oh, that can''t be right. I clearly heard you request it. Could it be that I misheard?" he asked, an infuriating grin still ying on his face. "After all, it seems many here heard the Sword Pavilion request the formation''s activation, didn''t they?"

    "You''re right! I also heard that blind fool requesting the Sword Sealing Formation be activated," Yao Manxue said, a cruelugh ying on her lips.

    "Nope, I heard it too!"

    "That blind old fart''s already gone senile. I clearly heard him."

    In an instant, many people from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks started chiming in.

    "Those from the Sword Pavilion, stop stirring up trouble. I heard it too." the Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, added fuel to the fire with his indifferent agreement.

    Grandpa Qin''s face alternated between shades of purple and white, and with a choked sound of sheer outrage, he spat out a mouthful of blood.

    "Grandpa Qin!" Qin Tong and the other younger disciples around him panicked, their faces reflecting their mounting fear and frustration.

    Amid the chaos, Cai Maomao''s eyes filled with tears as he turned to Zhao Xuanran. "Senior Sister Zhao, what do we do now? Yun Xiao is trapped inside!" he cried, his voice tinged with desperation. It was a repeat ofst year. Except this time, the First Sword Peak was even more shameless.

    "It''s fine..." Zhao Xuanran stood, frozen, her eyes fixed on the spectacle inside the formation where the fate of the brave Yun Xiao hung in the bnce. Within the barrier, the young man in white seemed momentarily stunned before his gaze met Zhao Xuanran''s. A smile blossomed on his face, a radiant grin that seemed utterly harmless.

    But Yun Xiao wasn''t the only one smiling. The one hundred and twenty arrogantly confident prodigies from the First Sword Peak were also smiling, theirughter echoing ominously within the sealed arena. Their mirth was unbridled, a wild disy of hubris and cruelty.

    "Yun Xiao, do you know? On this very dayst year, your Senior Sister Zhao met her defeat right here inside this Sword Sealing Formation. Each one of usnded a blow on her, she was covered in blood, her sword robe stained entirely in red..." Ye Tianyuan spoke with a sinister chuckle that echoed ominously around them.

    "I remember too, I even struck her twice, hehe..." The Sword Venerable''s sixth disciple, Xia Huai, shrugged with a sly grin.

    "She was too arrogant, daring to fight one hundred and twenty of us all by herself. If it weren''t for our Sword Venerable''s order to spare the Sect Master''s daughter, she wouldn''t even know how many times she would have died, you get me?"

    "And you, Yun Xiao, are not the son of the Sect Master!"

    "So, I''m afraid your pretty skin is about to be peeled off, hahaha..."

    But amid the hyena-likeughter and the waves of cruelty, one figure remained silent. Jiang Yue alone refrained from joining in the disgraceful disy, her face a portrait of solemnity in a sea of gloating smiles. Her gaze, cold and detached, settled upon Yun Xiao, as if dissecting him from the throng with surgical precision.

    With a resonant sound that sliced through the mounting cacophony, she unsheathed her Ice Moon Sword Soul, a de that gleamed with a chilling luster under the open sky. Pointing it towards Yun Xiao, the depths of her eyes flickered with a murderous intent so profound, it seemed to darken the surroundings momentarily. In her mind, Yun Xiao was but a stain on her grand journey of cultivation, a blemish that marred her otherwise immacte path to immortality.

    Behind Yun Xiao stood the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, an emblem of glory and ascension. She envisioned herself stepping over his lifeless body, an act that would symbolize her meteoric rise, her transcendence, free from the haunting specter of past failures. A perfectunchpad to the stars, purged of nightmarish memories, cleansed in the most ruthless manner possible.

    She refused to allow Yun Xiao, the young man who had cast a shadow over her brightest moments not once, but twice, to breathe even a moment longer. He was a specter, a recurring nightmare that needed to be extinguished without mercy.

    And so, her voice cut through the raucous crowd, a rion call that resonated with the weight of her hatred, the vehemence of her anger, echoing like a death knell in the charged atmosphere. The vow that escaped her lips promised not just death but a bounty for it, a contract sealed in blood and vengeance.

    "Whoever kills him will receive one hundred Divine Sea Pills from me, Jiang Yue, within the next five years!" she proimed, her voice ringing out, a harsh contrast to the roaringughter that filled the air moments before.

 Chapter 036 - One Swordstroke, One Kill! White Robes Stained in Blood! (1)

    <h4>Chapter 036 - One Swordstroke, One Kill! White Robes Stained in Blood! (1)</h4>

    "A hundred Divine Sea pills!" At the utterance of these words, a shockwave reverberated throughout the crowd. Within the entirety of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, only a solitary Divine Sea pill had been gifted to Jiang Yue. Now, she brazenly proimed that within five years, she would reward the killer with a hundred of these esteemed pills. Anyone else uttering these words would have been dismissed as a braggart, but not when it came from Jiang Yue. No one doubted her.

    Outside the Sword Sealing Formation, thousands of Sword Cultivators engaged in heated discussions, their faces filled with envy and awe.

    Inside the sealing formation, all of the disciples from the First Sword Peak turned in unison to gaze at the girl, who stood there as cold as frost, their eyes ame with fervent admiration.

    "Junior Sister Jiang..." Even Ye Tianyuan felt a burning sensation stirring within his heart at that moment. A hundred Divine Sea pills¡ªsuch a bold and grand gesture was made without hesitation.

    "Is this the confidence exhibited by an unparalleled immortal genius who surpasses the Comet grade?"

    "I really want to know... just what grade is her Sword Soul at?"

    The prodigies of the First Sword Peak felt a tempest raging within their hearts. Jiang Yue''s words ignited the fires of ughter instantly.

    Outside, the crowd shouted at the top of their lungs. Inside, a murderous aura surged.

    <i>SWOOSH! </i>One hundred and twenty pairs of eyes were fixed on the young man dressed in white, burning with an intensity akin to raging mes. Madness had enveloped them all!

    <i>BOOM </i>In that split second, a hundred and twenty Sword Souls of varying attributes and colors burst forth, filling the Sword Sealing Formation with a dazzling disy of sword rays.

    "Kill!!" A hundred and twenty against one. Not a single one of them doubted that Yun Xiao would perish. Their only concern was who would be the next lucky individual to obtain a hundred Divine Sea pills in the blink of an eye.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>All hundred and twenty of them, save for the smirking Jiang Yue, rushed towards Yun Xiao, eager to seize the glory for themselves.

    Jiang Yue retreated into the back of the group, standing aloft like a deity amidst the clouds, her contemptuousughter scrutinizing Yun Xiao. Her confidence in her own influence soared to unprecedented heights.

    Was this the Immortal Path of a peerless genius? It was absolutely exhrating! She couldn''t help but burst intoughter. "Farewell, Yun Xiao! You really are an ordinary yet overconfident one! Truly absurd!"

    As Jiang Yueughed, she suddenly noticed the young man''s gaze piercing through the throng of people, stabbing into her eyes. A surge of piercing pain assaulted her pupils!

    Jiang Yue was taken aback, a storm raging within her at the audacity disyed by Yun Xiao. Even at the brink of death, he had the gall to look at her with that gaze, one that regarded her as nothing more than a pathetic, lowly worm.

    "Why does he look at me like that? Just like thest two times?" She raged inwardly, feeling a ridicule that seemed to transcend time, emanating from his unwavering eyes.

    ¡°Kill him! Kill him now!¡± Jiang Yue screamed, her voice echoing like a tempest across the Conve Mountain, fueling the wildfire that threatened to consume Yun Xiao.

    The Azure Spirit Sword Sect was a furnace of fury, a roaring sea of voices from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks joined hers, resonating with vengeance, crashing against Yun Xiao like a cataclysmic wave. It was a deluge of murderous intent, a tide threatening to engulf him whole.

    But Yun Xiao stood firm, an unyielding figure amidst the storm, his spirit as immovable as the mountains that surrounded them. His eyes glowed with a fierce and cold sword light, a harbinger of the storm that was about to erupt from within him.

    <i>Three months ago, standing before you pretentious Sword Immortals I could only brace myself for death! </i>Yun Xiao steeled his resolve, a will honed through experiencing death and rebirth. <i>But today, even if the heavens were to unleash all manner of Immortals and demons, none shall halt my advance!</i>

    Back facing the elders and fellow disciples of the Sword Pavilion, Yun Xiao squared up against the one hundred and twenty Sword Cultivators before him. His figure became a living sword, piercing into the very soil of the vast mountain range, a manifestation of a spirit that could shake the heavens themselves.

    With a flourish, a brilliant azure de manifested from his palm, a harbinger of death that carried the wails of the damned, swirling in an endless loop of destruction, the fifteenyers of Sword Aura resembling theyers of hell that awaited the damned.

    Dressed in white, wielding an azure sword, the fearless young man transformed into a grim reaper. His Flying Sword shot through the air, performing a waltz of death, a symphony of destruction that sought to im the lives of those who stood against him.

    "Die!" Standing opposite of Yun Xiao, the disciples of the First Sword Peak roared. A chaotic symphony of anger and vengeance surged forth like a tidal wave, Sword Souls materializing and charging towards him with fatal intent.

    The air was thick with the scent of death, an orchestra of Flying Swords whizzing through the air, seeking to im Yun Xiao''s life.

    But Yun Xiao was a storm unto himself, a cataclysm that refused to be restrained. With a furious roar, he unleashed his full might, his Sword Soul resonating with the heavens as he charged forward, his sword singing a song of death and destruction.

    ¡°I''m not going to die. You all are!¡± His voice was a thunderp, a pronouncement of doom as he wielded the power of the Divine Sea Realm, unleashing a sword technique that threatened to rend the heavens asunder.

    <i>Swallow Tail sh!</i>

    Fast, ruthless, precise¡ªthese were the principles that governed the path of the Flying Sword, and speed was the foremost among them. With a flick of his wrist, the azure de took to the skies, disappearing into space as if it had be one with the elements.

    But within the Sword Sealing Formation, a piercing sound heralded the arrival of doom, a sh of azure light that brought death in its wake.

    <i>THUD...! THUD...! THUD...! </i>The air was thick with the scent of blood, a crimson tide that painted the ground with the life essence of the fallen. Eighteen prodigies of the First Sword Peak fell, their lives snuffed out in an instant, their bodies pierced through, hearts shattered under the relentless assault of the azure de.

    Eighteen bodies hurtled backward, a gruesome disy of the power that Yun Xiao wielded, a testament to his resolve, a gruesome tableau painted on the canvas of the Sword Sealing Formation.

    <i>HUM! </i>The azure Flying Sword left a trail of blood in its wake, halting abruptly at the tip of a young woman''s nose.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The tempestuous aura of the sword danced across her face, carving hundreds of dense bloody lines in its wake. Her veil shredded instantaneously into fragments. The woman was none other than Jiang Yue!

    "Ah..." She staggered back, eyes widened in horror, her body convulsing. She couldn''t utter a sound, so great was her fear. Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul had pierced through the hearts of eighteen people right before her, only to halt at her nose.

    What did this signify? Anyone could see the ring implication¡ªhad Yun Xiao intended to kill her, she would have been dead already.

    "Yu-Yun Xiao..." Her twitching eyes managed to dart past the hanging azure Sword Soul to meet the gaze of the young man opposite her. A debilitating fear surged from her feet, engulfing her whole being like a tide of icy dread that froze her mind.

    <i>THUD! </i>She copsed to the ground, scrambling backward, her face a canvas of sheer terror. A single stroke, eighteen lives taken. The sheer lethal potency left her stunned once again.

    Ye Tianyuan and the others were also rooted to the spot, their assault paused in this terrifying moment. Each felt as though they had been doused with cold water, unable to resist looking down at their own chests, hearts pounding wildly.

    "Fifteenyers of Sword Aura!" Ye Tianyuan finally recognized it as the Sword Soul returned to Yun Xiao''s grasp. A scream escaped him, his face twisting in disbelief. Even as the son of the First Sword Venerable, he had only achieved elevenyers of Sword Aura. "How is this possible?!"

    On the high tform, nearly ny percent of the elders stood, their eyes fixated on the scene before them, unable to mask their shock.

    "It truly is fifteenyers..."

    The entire venue erupted in turmoil.

    Last night at the Sword Cloud Walk, Yun Xiao had only briefly revealed his Sword Soul while using a Sovereign Sword Technique, a state in which theyers of Sword Aura were not distinctly visible.

    This was the first public disy since the killing of Wu Wu!

    "Where the hell did the Sword Pavilion find so many demon bones to boost his Sword Aura to fifteenyers at thest minute?" Yao Manxue frowned deeply, casting a cold nce towards Zhao Xuanran andpany.

    "Zhao Jianxing''s been a vegetable for three years, and they still have that many in reserve?" Ye Tiance''s eyelids twitched uncontrobly, betraying his shock and disbelief.

    "Why not give the resources to Zhao Xuanran, instead of offering them to this ordinary disciple with a Meteor grade Sword Soul?" Yao Manxue shook her head in disbelief.

    "It doesn''t make any sense! Moreover, did thisd manage to break through from the Dragon Spring Realm to the Divine Sea Realm justst night?" Ye Tiance''s eyes turned even colder.

    "No worries! Our youngsters were just a bit careless just now, failing to spread out and form a circle to trap him... Tianyuan and the others won''t be so careless now!" Yao Manxue said through gritted teeth.

    Would Yun Xiao have been able to kill so many of them if they hadn''t bunched up together?

    "This young fellow is somewhat odd. Otherwise, the decrepit lot at the Sword Pavilion wouldn''t pool all their resources on him!" Ye Tiance looked towards the people of the Sword Pavilion, his intent to kill more evident than before.

    Yet what he didn''t know was that everyone on the Sword Pavilion''s side was utterly confused.

    "Yun Xiao''s Sword Aura was just nineyers yesterday..." Everyone turned their gaze towards Zhao Xuanran.

    "Stop doubting, just believe in him!" Zhao Xuanran said, her eyes fixed intently on the Sword Sealing Formation inside, unfazed by any distractions. Under her sleeves, her fists clenched tightly, and her eyes began to fill with a surge of blood vessels.

    A battle against a hundred and twenty in the Sword Sealing Formation¡ªhow could she forget such an experience? The young man in white, he was seeking to wash away her previous shame!

    Everyone expected to see Yun Xiao die today. Yet, his astonishing sword y instantly ramped up the tense atmosphere on the Conve Mountain! Almost everyone was dumbstruck, their eyes glued to the white figure in the middle of the melee.

    "Spread out, encircle him!" Ye Tianyuan finally snapped back to reality, barking out an order with a ferocious yell.

    They all knew that the young man before them was no longer amb waiting for ughter.

    "To take down this desperate criminal, I''m afraid we might have to sacrifice some!" Xia Huai shouted.

    "Everyone, give it your all! Otherwise, the loss of our brothers will be in vain!" Tao Liang yelled loudly.

    "Spread out and kill him with your flying swords!" Qi Yuxuan ordered sternly.

    Armed with a hundred Flying Swords, who needed to engage in closebat? With arger number of Sword Cultivators, they held a significant advantage, capable of killing from a distance with their Flying Swords!

    <i>BUZZ BUZZ! </i>In a sh, the remaining hundred Sword Cultivators spread out, surrounding Yun Xiao, their eyes filled with murderous intent and renewed confidence.

    "Junior Sister Jiang, hide behind me!" Ye Tianyuan shouted.

    "Yes, Fifth Senior Brother..." Jiang Yue, no longer pretending, hurriedly scrambled behind Ye Tianyuan, secretly wishing for Yun Xiao''s swift demise. She was thoroughly terrified!

    "Form a sword array with the Flying Swords!" Ye Tianyuan, guarding Jiang Yue, yelled again. Hundreds of prodigies were already prepared.

    "Together, attack!" At Ye Tianyuan''smand, under the control of these prodigious Sword Cultivators, a hundred Flying Swords formed an array, like a colorful torrential downpour of sword ray, attacking Yun Xiao from all directions!

    Such concentrated firepower could potentially even turn someone at the Late Divine Sea Realm into a sieve.

    Last year, Zhao Xuanran was defeated with the same tactic. She was continually worn down from a distance, no one daring to engage her in closebat. Now, the familiar scene yed out once again. Gasps shook the Conve Mountain. Yet again, most people felt that Yun Xiao was doomed.

    Jiang Yue was no exception. However, her gaze brimming with murderous intent once again met Yun Xiao''s eyes. There it was again, that same look of fearlessness and mocking disdain. A pang of realization struck her heart.

    <i>VROOM! </i>What Jiang Yue witnessed was nothing short of astonishing. The young man in white flicked his wrist nonchntly, transforming the azure Flying Sword into a six-foot long, palm-wide Sovereign Sword. With a casual leap, he stepped onto his ride.

    Then, a streak of azure sped through the air. Yun Xiao maneuvered his Sovereign Sword with an unmatched ease! <i>KLANG KLANG KLANG! </i>Hundreds of Flying Swords darted viciously towards him. But the youth in white seemed like a fish weaving through a of cyan and white, leisurely drifting through the dense rain of swords.

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>The swords managed to pierce through his white robes but miraculously missed his skin entirely!

    <i>Sovereign Sword Technique¡ªLeisurely Wander!</i>

    Yun Xiao gilded amidst a forest of swords, not a single one touching him! He wasn''t just a man anymore, but a fish in the ocean, swimming freely and cheerfully without any constraint, the epitome of freedom and joy!

    "Holy shit!" A collective gasp echoed from the spectators at the Conve Mountain.

    "What the hell is this?"

    "Dodging Flying Swords with a Sovereign Sword? Is that Leisurely Wander, the Mid Comet grade Sovereign Sword Technique?"

    "I''m freaking impressed!"

    "What the-?"

    "How can someone master the Sovereign Sword to this extent?"

    It was akin to dodging arrows while riding a horse-drawn carriage, utterly extravagant.

    "Old Wang!" Grandpa Qin turned to the chubby Elder Wang with a question on his face.

    "I won''t lie to you, thatd learned everything in just half a day. He drained me dry; I simply couldn''t keep up..." Elder Wang confessed, his face flushed with embarrassment.

    "What?" Elder Zhou looked awkward, "I thought I was the only one who got scammed by him."

    "Me too!" Elder Zheng shamefully hung her head.

    As the three exchanged nces, they realized they all had simr embarrassing encounters with this prodigy.

 Chapter 037 - One Swordstroke, One Kill! White Robes Stained in Blood! (2)

    <h4>Chapter 037 - One Swordstroke, One Kill! White Robes Stained in Blood! (2)</h4>

    "Thisd is truly a swordsmanship genius!" Grandpa Qin eximed, a trace of madness dancing in his excited eyes. His words barely faded when the Conve Mountain once more erupted with shouts of awe, shifting from shock to exmation. It was all because Yun Xiao, who was masterfully controlling the Sovereign Sword, uttered a single phrase¡ª

    "Have you had enough? Is it my turn now?"

    <i>VROOM! </i>Executing Leisurely Wander, Yun Xiao dodged hundreds of sword strikes, bing one with his sword. In a sh, he appeared before a woman. This was the tenth disciple of the First Sword Venerable, Qi Yuxuan!

    "Return, Flying Sword!" Qi Yuxuan''s face changed drastically as she hurriedly recalled her Flying Swords, her cultivation at the Early Divine Sea Realm apparent in her control. But, it was toote!

    Yun Xiao reached her, and in the moment he stepped off the Sovereign Sword the Sword Soul reverted to a Palm Sword, transforming into a three-foot azure de, which he held firmly in his grip.

    With a soft thud, a white shadow darted by, a severed head soared through the air. Another disciple of the First Sword Venerable met their demise.

    "Tenth Junior Sister!!" Ye Tianyuan and the others bellowed, their eyes nearly bursting from their sockets.

    "Yun Xiao!!" Their rage seemed to engulf the heavens, as theyunched forward once again, Flying Swords shooting at Yun Xiao, while some employed Palm Swords in their relentless pursuit.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s Swallow Tail sh could scatter and nullify the assaults. But his Leisurely Wander technique became the real nightmare haunting the prided disciples of the First Sword Peak.

    Yun Xiao at this moment surpassed even Zhao Xuanran from a year ago, harboring greater strength and a wider array of techniques, his Sword Aura and Sword Soul manifested even more fiercely.

    "Getting angry now, are we? Sorry, but I''ve just begun my killing spree!" Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes harbored a ruthless determination, showing no signs of retreat. Instead, he turned his riding sword around to dive back into the fray.

    His Leisurely Wander allowed him to transition fluidly to using a Flying Sword. The white-d figure darted by, releasing the Swallow Tail sh from his Flying Sword.

    <i>THUD! </i>Tao Liang, the sixth disciple of the First Sword Venerable, had his forehead pierced as he dropped dead.

    "Three Swords as One!"

    "He''s executing it so perfectly in battle! Not even many Sword Venerables can achieve this, can they?"

    "What kind of monster is he?"

    The unity of the three Sword Soul forms! This was the seamless transition and use of the Flying sword, Palm Sword, and Sovereign Sword; a swift, fierce, and precise disy at every step, unrivaled in uracy.

    Yun Xiao, a mere sixteen-year-old disciple, was showcasing a level of swordsmanship talent that was akin to a visual feast for the spectators!

    "He¡¯s massacring them!" Azure streaks and white shadows! A single figure was dancing and shing amidst a group of over a hundred First Sword Peak disciples. Yun Xiao could y a person with a single stroke of his sword! Yet, the hundred people and their hundred swords couldn¡¯t touch a hair on him.

    Even Ye Tianyuan, the only one at the Mid Divine Sea Realm who had been chasing him all this time, was eating dust, forced to watch as Yun Xiao mercilessly ughtered his fellow disciples in the First Sword Peak..

    "Xu Qian!" Ye Tianyuan cried out.

    Another disciple of the First Sword Venerable met their end during the sh, her Sword Soul shattered by a single strike from Yun Xiao. <i>THUD! </i>She coughed up blood, her soul scattering. She had just copsed to her knees when a hole appeared in her throat. A death even more abrupt! Another disciple of the First Sword Venerable lost.

    "Fifth Senior Brother!" Now only Ye Tianyuan, Xia Huai, and Jiang Yue, the three Sword Venerable disciples remained. Xia Huai was clearly petrified. He was at the Early Divine Sea Realm, the same as Jiang Yue.

    "Come, let''s join forces!" Ye Tianyuan''s heart was pounding furiously in his chest.

    "Yes!" Xia Huai shouted, desperation fueling his sprint towards Ye Tianyuan. Before another breath could be taken, a sword streaked by with a sickening sound. Xia Huai''s head flew off,nding at Ye Tianyuan''s feet, while his body continued its forward momentum for a few more tragic steps before copsing.

    "Sixth Junior Brother!" Ye Tianyuan roared, his eyes aze with a rage that seemed capable of igniting the heavens themselves.

    "Sixth Senior Brother..." Jiang Yue murmured, her voice tinged with disbelief and sorrow. Another individual she revered had been ughtered by Yun Xiao, as helpless as amb at the altar.

    Jiang Yue''s mind buzzed, her thoughts nk, as she stared at the decapitated head before her. From this point on, all of the First Sword Venerable''s disciples between the fifth, Ye Tianyuan, and the thirteenth, Jiang Yue, had met their end at the hands of Yun Xiao.

    Wang Feng was the first. Yun Tianyi and Lan Xiao were the second group. Today, four more had been added to the grim tally.

    Each had possessed a Comet grade Sword Soul, each a top-tier talent within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Such individuals were rare in other Sword Peaks, yet Ye Tiance had thirteen personally mentored disciples of this caliber.

    "How has Yun Xiao be so strong?" the Second Sword Venerable, Shangguan Yu, eximed, unable to contain her astonishment, her heart pounding wildly.

    "Did Ye Tiance really unleash the Sword Sealing Formation only to shoot himself in the foot?" Qian Kun of the Sword Treasure Pavilion remarked, his face a picture of shock and disbelief.

    "Junior Brother Yun!" The disciples of the Sword Pavilion, already frenzied, were shouting at the top of their lungs outside the Sword Sealing Formation, their cheers filled with a mixture of exhration and desperation. The elders behind them had tears streaming down their faces, letting out years of pent-up frustrations and regrets. Even Zhao Xuanran, standing amongst them, had tears twinkling in her eyes.

    "Yun Xiao is doomed!" the Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, dered pping his seat, his face pale.

    "Indeed, he single-handedly killed six Sword Venerable disciples! Once the Sword Sealing Formation is broken, the First Sword Venerable will surely take his life," Yu Xuanzhou quickly agreed, nodding fervently.

    "He won''t need to wait for the formation to break. Yun Xiao can''t keep this up forever. Riding the Sovereign Sword is draining his power fast. Soon, he''ll be torn to shreds by a barrage of des!" Zhang Jian asserted coldly, visibly irritated that Yun Xiao''s reckless ughter was making a mockery of his recent pledge of loyalty to Ye Tiance.

    "That''s true, with Ye Tianyuan still standing and over ny others with him," Yu Xuanzhou nodded in agreement, though he seemed to be finding Yun Xiao''s defiance increasingly baffling. Still, he maintained, "Reality''s cruelty will soon set in. There are some people we simply cannot afford to offend."

    "The people in the Sword Pavilion are celebrating now, but once Yun Xiao falls, their years of effort will be in vain. Their cries of despair will be the ugliest sight," Zhang Jian sneered.

    Within a fleeting moment, the high tform showcased the myriad faces of humanity¡ªfrom hope to despair, from arrogance to fear. Yet, Yun Xiao paid no heed to their judgments.

    In his eyes, there were only swords and blood, only the pursuit of his fervent desires. Amidst the scrutinizing gaze of the masses, he spun around fiercely, his figure poised upon the azure Sovereign Sword. His white robes fluttered wildly, and his long hair danced in the wind. His eyes, reminiscent of the dazzling cosmic seas, swept across the group that had dwindled to less than a hundred.

    Of the people left, only Ye Tianyuan and Jiang Yue were at the Divine Sea Realm, the majority being in the Late Dragon Spring Realm, and a few at the Perfect or Establishment stage. Clutching their Sword Souls tightly, they stared back at Yun Xiao with a mix of fury and terror.

    "He''s been riding the Sovereign Sword for too long. His power must be nearly depleted!" Ye Tianyuan shouted, his voice echoing with a cold fury.

    "A single person''s strength is always limited. Now he''s nothing but a dimmingntern running on fumes," Jiang Yue added, her voice grim but resolute.

    "Don''t be intimidated by his bluster!" Ye Tianyuan yelled. Amid mutual encouragement, the prideful disciples from the First Sword Peak of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect showed signs of renewed vigor.

    "We have numbers on our side. We can wear him down..." Jiang Xue muttered fiercely under her breath.

    The sight of Yun Xiao''s slightly dimmed Sword Soul stirred a rising tide of brutality in them, reigniting their murderous intent. Edges gleamed anew, the symphony of sword resonances filling the air. With cold, determined eyes and firm grips on their Sword Souls, they inched closer to him, step by unfaltering step.

    The audience atop the Conve Mountain was a sea of bated breaths and racing hearts, their gazes locked onto the youth in white robes. As his Divine Sea Realm power depleted, how would he retaliate?

    The young man, his gaze as indifferent as the highest heavens,nded gracefully. His Sword Soul transformed into a de of azure, three feet in length. He stood defiantly, his sword horizontally poised against nearly a hundred Sword Cultivators.

    "I have one principle," Yun Xiao dered, his voice echoing with a chilling resolve. "Anyone who seeks to kill me, I won''t consider morals, cause and effect, good or evil. I will kill them first."

    With that, Yun Xiao pointed his three-foot azure de towards the crowd of Sword Cultivators. "I advise you all, one step forward, and you enter hell!"

    The words sent a tremor through the surrounding Sword Sealing Formation. The killing intent and conviction rolling off him in waves overshadowed the prideful disciples from the First Sword Peak once again. A lone figure, with a sword to match, his spirit shook the heavens. His white robe fluttered wildly, his azure sword demonic in its presence.

    "He''s definitely out of magic power. He''s just bluffing!"

    "Think about the hundred Divine Sea Pills...!"

    In the eyes of the advancing Sword Cultivators, greed and murderous intent danced wildly. Yun Xiao wasn''t a living being to them but a corpse, a treasure trove of a hundred Divine Sea Pills. Swords in hand, they moved forward. One step. Two steps. Ten steps.

    "Yun Xiao, you''ve got it wrong. It''s not a matter of you sparing us, but us not wanting to spare you!" Ye Tianyuan sneered.

    "Excellent! If there is a next time, I won''t waste a word!"

    With that, Yun Xiao produced five dark-red beads from his bosom. Aside from him, no one knew what these were¡ªa deliberate move on his part. Since the beginning, his audacious decision to fight against a hundred and twenty people wasn''t a reckless impulse. It was a course of action forged from an utter certainty deep within him.

    Yun Xiao believed, without a shadow of doubt, he would prevail in this battle. He ced the Heavenly Dao Sariras into his mouth, feeling the magic power of his Divine Sea swell robustly once more! <i>BOOM! </i>His Sword Soul erupted, emanating a dazzle that rivaled the sun''s brilliance.

    "What the¡ª!" Ye Tianyuan was momentarily blinded, unable to open his eyes amidst the intense re.

    "Kill him!" Oblivious to the actual threat Yun Xiao posed, the brash young elites from the First Sword Peak charged at him anew, wielding Flying Swords and Palm Swords with reckless determination.

    Within the cerulean ze, the resonant voice of the young man echoed throughout the Sword Sealing Formation.

    "I am a wanderer of the mortal world."

    "Traversing through the worldly chaos with a sk of wine at my side!"

    "With my three-foot azure de in hand."

    "I y all who dare to hinder my path!"

    Azure light infiltrated dreams, White shadows flickered uncertainly, Swords swept across mercilessly, Blood sprayed into the heavens. It was nothing more than... a festival of murder. Within the Sword Sealing Formation, cries of anguish filled with despair, regret, and fear abruptly ceased.

    <i>THUD...! THUD...! THUD...! </i>One by one, mutted corpses mmed against the Sword Sealing Formation, staining the luminous shield a gruesome hue of blood. There was no sign of depleted magic power, only a massacre resembling divine judgement, orchestrated by a butcher in the guise of an Immortal.

    "You imed that a year ago, not a single ce on my Senior Sister Zhao''s gown was without a bloodstain?" Yun Xiao remarked, his eyes gleaming ferociously. "Today, my white robes are also soaking red with blood...

    "¡ªHowever, not a single drop of that blood belongs to me!" Yun Xiao roared. As the voice of the young man, mingled with the sounds of weeping and wailing, reverberated through the Sword Sealing Formation, every individual on the Conve Mountain felt as though a sword had cleaved their minds.

    Even the elders, witnessing this scene, felt a chilling sensation crawling across their scalps. From the Sword Pavilion, a lone hero emerged. Yet, that single person drove a hundred and twenty geniuses of the First Sword Peak into a frantic retreat, their cries echoing like lost spirits in the wind.

    His presence, his prowess¡ªit sent shivers down the spines of those who bore witness. An eerie silence settled over the stunned crowd, a silence so profound it mirrored death itself.

    The Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, and his elder Yu Xuanzhou, among others, had their mouths agape, wide enough to harbor an egg.

    The members of the Sword Pavilion clenched their fists tightly, their eyes reddened with tears streaming down uncontrobly. Even the bystanders found their visions blurred at this moment.

    Yun Xiao''s deration had unleashed all the raging inferno harbored within his heart and ignited those of others. Anyone could see for whom he battled for, for whom his fury burned!

    Amidst the azure streaks and sword shadows, Yun Xiao fought a relentless battle, leaving countless corpses in his wake, but his sword heart remained invincible and unextinguished!

    "Stop!!" Finally, someone couldn''t bear it any longer. Finally, fear settled in! Finally, hearts bled! Roars of rage echoed from the high tform. The elders leading the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks, spearheaded by Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue, dashed towards the Sword Sealing Formation.

    <i>HUM! </i>Hundreds of flying swords soared, mming onto the Sword Sealing Formation.

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM!</i> The formation trembled mightily, yet remained unbroken. Inside, the young man continued his ughter.

    <i>KLANG!! </i>Ye Tiance personally brandished his sword, fury zing in his eyes, hacking down upon the formation. But instead, the formation reflected the assault, sending him flying!

    The others were in a state of frantic urgency, trying to break the formation but finding themselves even more disgracefully retreating than Ye Tiance. Their faces were distorted with rage!

    These were a hundred and twenty of the strongest disciples from the First Sword Peak! If this group perished, the First Sword Peak would suffer a crippling blow, the magnitude of the loss unimaginable.

    "Ha ha ha..." From the Sword Pavilion''s side, Grandpa Qin''sughter rang out, piercing and mocking. "A year ago, the one desperately trying to break this formation was me, Old Blind Qin! And today, it seems the shoe is on the other foot, huh? How wonderful the cycle of fate is, who can escape the judgment of the heavens?"

    "The funniest part is that the Sword Sealing Formation was personally activated by a certain someone earlier." Zhao Xuanran chimed in with a cold sneer.

    Hearing this, a vein seemed ready to burst on Ye Tiance''s face. Inside him, a volcano threatened to erupt.

    "Senior Sister Zhao is right..."

    "The First Sword Venerable here has really shot himself in the foot."

    "He''s really lost face this time! Tsk, tsk!"

    ...

    Surrounding them, whispers and murmurs of suchments filled the air. Sardonic nces pierced Ye Tiance''s heart like swords! The grandiose manner with which he had set up the Sword Sealing Formation earlier now seemed a monumental joke.

    "Sword Venerable Ye!" Qian Kun, the chubby figure from the Spirit Treasure Pavilion, appeared before Ye Tiance at some point. With a grave tone, he dered aloud in front of everyone, "You must not act rashly! The oue of this Grand Conve battle affects the bets ced at my Spirit Treasure Pavilion. Fairness and justice are the primary principles! Our reputation is the foundation of Spirit Treasure Pavilion and also the face of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect! You must not act impulsively, reducing the Eight Swords Conve to aughingstock in the eyes of all our esteemed guests following the Immortal Dao!"

    "Yes, exactly! I ced bets too! Oh no... I bet on the First Sword Peak!"

    "Dang it! Just yesterday, that Yun Xiao, dumped a bunch of Senior Sister Zhao''s Spirit Stones in the Sword Pavilion''s betting pool! I thought he was giving out gifts!"

    "Shameless brat! You..."

    ...

    In the gathering throng, debates red and voices shed, echoing like the chaotic melody of a misdirected orchestra.

    ¡°Not to worry! Fair y, that''s the heart of it all, isn''t it? I believe the Chief Steward of the Spirit Treasure Pavilion has a point!¡± a voice piped up, carrying a subtle undertone of mockery. ¡°If the dignified Azure Spirit starts ying dirty, who would want to be friends with us, eh?¡±

    Each word pierced like a dagger, twisting in Ye Tiance''s heart. The criticism was relentless, leaving no room for counterargument. Even if he could dismantle the Sword Sealing Formation, Ye Tiance would find himself facing a sea of using fingers, potentially severing ties with the influential Spirit Treasure Pavilion. Moreover, Qian Kun, the speaker, was a distinguished guest whom he himself had invited.

    A sudden realization dawned on Ye Tiance amidst the storm of verbal assaults. "Elder Fan is still here!" he eximed, his voice edged with desperation. A tremor ran through him as he hastily instructed Yao Manxue, "Quick, find Elder Fan and put in a good word for us."

    "Understood!" Yao Manxue hurried off, her heart pounding like a frenzied drumbeat. But as she nced back, she noted the devastating scene within the formation¡ªa sea of lifeless bodies, the breath of life almost entirely extinguished from the area.

    "The First Sword Peak it''s nearly annihted," she murmured, a haze of disbelief clouding her mind. She knew, deep down, that Ye Tiance was on the verge of an explosive outburst.

    "Yun Xiao, if you cease this madness now, there might still be a chance for the Sword Pavilion to survive!" Ye Tiance yelled, his voice a frigid tempest echoing beyond the confines of the formation.

    "Cease?" A boisterousughter erupted from within, the sound mocking and cruel.

    <i>THUD! </i>Ye Tiance''s eyes widened in horror as the mangled and dying body of his son, Ye Tianyuan, was hurled before him, a gruesome sight marking the boundary that separated them.

    "Father..." Tianyuan''s face bore an expression of sheer terror, his eyes dimming as he slowly sank to the ground, life fleeting from his once vibrant self.

    A grim tableau unfolded before Ye Tiance. Inside the formation, a young man garbed in blood-soaked robes dragged a terrified girl by the hair, her face a canvas of fear and desperation.

    "Ah, Sword Venerable Ye," Yun Xiao taunted with an eerie calmness that sent shivers down the spines of the onlookers. He dragged the girl closer, her whimpers piercing the tense silence. "Your First Sword Peak''s geniuses seem tock a certain... resilience, don''t you think? How about we add another three hundred more to the party?"

 Chapter 038 - Who Can Block My Ascent to the Heavens?

    <h4>Chapter 038 - Who Can Block My Ascent to the Heavens?</h4>

    <i>BANG! </i>Yun Xiao loosened his grip, and Jiang Yue once again knelt before him, a pathetic image of her former self. Once a peerless beauty in the world of Immortals, now she was a pitiful sight. Her hair resembling a bird''s nest, her sword robe covered in filth and blood, and her face marred by bloody scratches. Every part of her¡ªeyshes, fingers, lips¡ªwere twitching uncontrobly. Her eyes, filled with terror at the sight of Yun Xiao, quivered violently. Her entire being seemed to have lost its spirit, surrendering to the dread that enveloped her.

    This was the third time. Each time she managed to rise, thinking she could crush this ordinary boy, she was cut down again, each fall worse than thest. This time, it was the worst. In a pile of corpses, she wailed pitifully. Before hery her fellow disciples, over a hundred proud talents of the First Sword Peak, crying out in pain and dying at her feet.

    Each sh of Yun Xiao''s sword seemed like a strike on Jiang Yue herself. His gaze never left her as he killed, making the Sword Sealing Formation her own personal nightmare. Despite her master, Ye Tiance, being just yards away, she felt as if she was trapped in the path of the underworld.

    "Yun... Yun..." Jiang Yue tried to utter his name, but it was as if a scalding stone stuck in her throat, making it impossible for her to say even his name.

    <i>THUD!! </i>She crawled on the ground, her head battered and bloodied. Tears mixed with blood blurred her vision, and her trembling hands pressed against the cold ground. Her long hair, soaked with the blood of her peers, trailed across the ground.

    "Spare me, please!" She cried out, her voice quaking, her face as pale as a sheet of paper.

    "Afraid of death, are we?" An azure Sword Soul extended and gently lifted Jiang Yue''s chin, forcing her to raise her head. The sword tip, emanating a fearsome energy, was pressed against her delicate throat.

    "Yes, I''m afraid..." She nodded, trembling violently, tears flowing freely as she was forced to look up.

    Above her, Yun Xiao looked down with a devilish grin, his divine face now resembling that of a devil to Jiang Yue.

    A teasing glint was in his eyes, and he said in a mocking tone, "Look at you, once a peerless Immortal genius, now begging for your life on your knees in front of me. How do you n to erase this stain on your reputation, especially with so many witnesses?"

    "Yun Xiao, if you spare me, I swear, once I be an Immortal, I will give you thousands¡ªno, tens of thousands of Divine Sea Pills! I won''t ever oppose you again, please, I''m begging you, spare me!" Jiang Yue sobbed.

    "Oh, offering me Divine Sea Pills when you be an Immortal?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh. He retracted his Sword Soul and gripped Jiang Yue''s neck, lifting her effortlessly to face him.

    "Jiang Yue..." He stared at her coldly, his words squeezing through clenched teeth, "It seems your path to bing an Immortal isn''t going so smoothly, do you know why?"

    "What?" Jiang Yue''s soul seemed to have left her body, her pupils dting in fear.

    "Because you''re as blind as a bat!" With that, Yun Xiao flicked his wrist twice, releasing two beams of sword light that pierced through Jiang Yue''s eyes.

    "Aaahhh!" Jiang Yue screamed in agony, clutching her bleeding eyes with both hands. "My eyes!" Her screams echoed through the Conve Mountain, sending shivers down the spine of every person present, many feeling a phantom sting in their own eyes from her heart-wrenching cries.

    "My heavens, this is brutal..." In the eyes of the onlookers, the woman hailed as the future goddess of the Immortal Path seemed no different than a small fox at this moment, caught in Yun Xiao''s grip, struggling fiercely in mid-air.

    At that precise moment, outside the Sword Sealing Formation, a sea of Sword Cultivators had gathered, a tapestry of emotions disying across their faces¡ªanger, shock, and a blend of murderous intent and admiration seared onto the man at the center of it all, Yun Xiao. And yet, he stood fearless.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Suddenly, a gigantic streak of sword rays soared from the tform, its blinding light piercing the sky.

    <i>BANG! </i>The Sword Sealing Formation shattered with an echoing ng.

    "Elder Fan has made his move!" a disciple eximed, as the Sword Cultivators from the First Sword Peak who had waited for this moment for too long murmured in agreement.

    "A guest was moved to intervene, I bet Yao Manxue has really worn out her lips persuading!" another disciple remarked.

    "It''s the Azure Spirit''s Eight Swords Conve, after all... how did ite to this, needing outsiders to interfere?" an eldermented.

    With the breaking of the Sword Sealing Formation, the atmosphere at the Conve Mountain took a sudden turn from a deathly silence to a sobering readiness for battle. Outside the battlefield, a substantial number of Sword Cultivators from the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks loomed like towering mountains, their magic power suppressing Yun Xiao and the others from the Sword Pavilion. They had waited far too long for the formation to break.

    The boiling murderous intent had already engulfed Ye Tiance as he saw his son being killed and Jiang Yue blinded. "Annihte him!" he ordered coldly, as the Sword Cultivators behind him unsheathed their swords unanimously, ready to drag the whole of the Conve Mountain into a messy battle.

    "Ye Tiance, what are you doing?" All of a sudden, arge group of Sword Cultivators descended. Leading them was a woman dressed in a blue sword robe, her long hair neatly tied back¡ªit was the Second Sword Venerable, Shangguan Yu!

    The group following her was not any less in number than Ye Tiance''s, primarilyprising members from the Second, Fourth, and Fifth Sword Peaks. It was clear that a significant portion of Azure Spirit had been dragged into this conflict.

    Shangguan Yu swept her gaze over the bloody battlefield before fixing her eyes on Ye Tiance. She bellowed, "Tell me, as the head of this year''s Eight Swords Assembly, you are responsible for ensuring the fairness and openness of the Eight Swords Conve. First, you unterally activated the Sword Sealing Formation, and now you bring people to interfere with the Grand Conve. What are you nning? Where is the honor of Azure Spirit?" With this stern query, her righteous fury weighed heavily upon the Sword Cultivators opposite her.

    "Yes, what is this nonsense?"

    "With guests from the Sea of Swords, Spirit Treasure Pavilion, and East Arcane Ind still present, this is uneptable!"

    "Can the First Sword Peak not afford to lose?"

    Behind Shangguan Yu, many chimed in, further fueling the fiery res from Ye Tiance and his group.

    "Shangguan Yu, what are you scheming? We''ve lost a hundred and twenty top disciples. I even lost half my personal disciples, and Wu Wu and his entire family are still missing. Do you think this is your chance now that our First Sword Peak has been significantly weakened? Ye Tiance said with a chilling tone.

    "I don''t understand what you''re saying. Azure Spirit is a coalition of the eight sword lineages, not anyone''s personal possession! What I''m trying to defend here are the hundreds of years of traditions, rules, and spirit of our ancestors!!" Shangguan Yu responded coldly.

    "Well said!"

    "In past duels and Conves, it was the fairness and justice that made all eight sword lineages ept the results willingly! What is happening now? Only your disciples are allowed to win, only your side can kill, but as soon as your people get killed, the elders personally step in? How shameless!" Zhao Xuanran sneered, adding coldughter to the tense atmosphere.

    "Heh heh heh..." At these words, Ye Tiance let out a chillyugh that carried the faintest trace of amusement.

    "Not bad! Quite interesting indeed." He raised his head, sweeping his gaze over Shangguan Yu and Zhao Xuanran, before finally settling it on Yun Xiao.

    "You all misunderstand. As the head of the Eight Sword Assembly, would I really lead the breach of the Azure Spirit Laws?" Ye Tiance said, his smile rxed and a little mocking.

    "And why, may I ask, are you all standing here with such aggressive postures?" Shangguan Yu responded, her voice icy and stern.

    "I came down to announce that, in the first round of the Grand Conve between the First Sword Peak and the Sword Pavilion, we of the First Sword Peak hereby surrender. The Sword Pavilion wins and advances to the next round!" Ye Tiance dered, gritting out each word through clenched teeth, a mocking smile adorning his face, though everyone could practically feel the storm of fury brewing within him.

    "And whates next?" Shangguan Yu asked, her pupils narrowing.

    Ye Tiance''s eyes suddenly hardened, a fierce killing intent swirling around him as he said, "The battle has concluded, the victor determined. If anyone dares to harm my disciples from the First Sword Peak now, to hurt those under my guidance, it would be a deration of war. And we of the First Sword Peak will fight them to the bitter end!"

    The gathered crowd nodded in understanding. Ye Tiance had chosen to swallow his pride, to admit defeat in order to protect Jiang Yue.

    "He''s well aware of his advantages, banking on Swordking Ye and Jiang Yue."

    "As long as these two are around, the First Sword Peak will never lose, and the Sword Pavilion will never win!"

    "Showing that he can bend without breaking, the First Sword Venerable still has some backbone."

    "But remember, the Sixth Sword Venerable threatened Yun Xiao to protect his son once before, and was executed by Yun Xiao right then and there."

    "This..."

    Thinking of Yun Xiao''s temperament, the crowd suddenly grew anxious. If he chose to kill now, it would create an immense problem.

    "If Yun Xiao dares to kill, it would put the Second Sword Venerable, Shangguan Yu, in an extremely awkward position, leaving her without a justification to step in."

    "Oh no, look at that kid''s expression. He''s going to act impulsively again!"

    In an instant, all eyes converged on Yun Xiao, hearts pounding in their chests as the elders in the group felt a surge of anxiety.

    "Yun Xiao..." Shangguan Yu turned around, her eyelids twitching violently.

    "Junior Brother Yun..." Zhao Xuanran bit her lip and shook her head.

    They were at a disadvantage now. If they gave Ye Tiance the moral high ground, he would undoubtedly show no mercy.

    "Yun Xiao, please give me a chance! I meant what I said about the thousand Divine Sea Pills. I''ll keep my word!" Jiang Yue sobbed, clinging to Yun Xiao''s legs and pleading fervently. What about the image of an aloof Immortal genius? It had long been trampled under Yun Xiao''s feet!

    Considering Yao Zijin''s previous case, even Ye Tiance didn''t dare to threaten Yun Xiao now, fearing that a flick of his sword might send Jiang Yue''s head flying towards him. Amon youth, wielding a Meteor grade Sword Soul, now held the whole of Azure Spirit in a state of heart-pounding suspense.

    "Haha." In this intensely strained atmosphere, Yun Xiao suddenly burst intoughter. "You guys really have a sense of humor. The peerless genius hasn''t even tested her Sword Soul yet, how could I bear to kill her? It''s all a misunderstanding, just a misunderstanding."

    As Yun Xiao spoke, he grabbed Jiang Yue by the cor as if holding a small chicken, and threw her towards Ye Tiance! The crowd held their breaths in unison, their hearts hammering in their chests.

    <i>Bang! </i>At the very moment Ye Tiance caught Jiang Yue, a collective sigh of relief echoed throughout the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    "I... I..." When Jiang Yue found herself embraced by her master, the tight knot in her heart finally loosened.

    "Wahhhhh!" Tears of a narrow escape from death mixed with the blood in her eyes, streaming down her face freely. It hurt even more, but at least she was alive.

    "It''s alright now, it''s alright!" Ye Tiance exhaled deeply,fort enveloping his words. "Lil Yue, let your master see your eyes."

    "Uh-huh!" Jiang Yue nodded vigorously, her movements hastened by anxiety. Several elders gathered around, forming a protective shield around her. It was apparent that they would not dare to let Yun Xiao, this dangerous character,y eyes on Jiang Yue again.

    "Master, will I... will I still be able to see?" Jiang Yue asked, anxiety threading her voice.

    "Your eyeballs are intact, you should be able to! The Sea of Swords certainly possess the mystical elixirs that can heal you," Ye Tiance reassured.

    A wave of relief washed over Jiang Yue as she heard this, her lingering fears dissipating atst. It was finally over! Her path to bing an Immortal, her prodigious talents, remained intact.

    But as her tension eased, her face contorted in anguish. Kneeling, begging, blinding... these scenes pierced through her proud heart like a sharp sword, leaving her already tormented spirit bleeding even more profusely.

    "Master!" Jiang Yue gripped Ye Tiance''s arm tightly.

    "What is it?" Ye Tiance asked, a note of sympathy in his voice.

    "I want to measure my Sword Soul! Now! Immediately! Right away!" Jiang Yue dered loudly, her hysterical voice drawing the attention of everyone present, including Yun Xiao.

    "Alright, I will take you there," Ye Tiance said, inhaling deeply topose himself.

    "Master, after the Sword Soul assessment, you must request more resources for me from the Sea of Swords. I will ascend to greatness in one fell swoop! I will personally annihte everyone in the Sword Pavilion. I will carve Yun Xiao up with a thousand shes!" Jiang Yue dered ferociously, not caring about the stares she was attracting.

    Everyone paused, startled by her sudden change in tone.

    "Didn''t she just say she would bow down to Yun Xiao for the rest of her life and even promised to send him tens of thousands of Divine Sea Pills?" Cai Maomao asked in disbelief.

    "She changes her tune faster than flipping a page!" Qin Tongmented, speechless.

    As more whispers and murmurs erupted around her, Jiang Yue''s internal conflict intensified, tearing her apart. "Yun Xiao!" She shouted at the top of her lungs, not knowing in which direction the young man stood.

    "What do you want to say?" A cold, youthful voice responded.

    A sinister smile spread across Jiang Yue''s face. "From the Sword Inheritance tform to the Eight Swords Conve, you failed to kill me three times, only daring to ughter those by my side. I know you are actually afraid of me deep down! Afraid of my Sword Soul talent that surpasses the Comet grade, afraid of my master and Senior Brother Ye who will make you suffer endlessly. Listen well, today will be thest time. Soon, you will regret not having the courage to kill me today!"

    Yun Xiaoughed, his voice carrying a mocking tone. "Not this nonsense again, you clucking hen. I''ve grown tired of hearing it."

    "In this lifetime, I vow to torment you to death!" Suppressing the raging fury in her heart, Jiang Yue felt like she was on the verge of spewing blood. From the Sword Inheritance Stage to the Eight Swords Conve, it had only been three or four days! Why was it so difficult to wait?

    "Master, take me to measure my Sword Soul. This time, I must astonish everyone!" Jiang Yue roared, her voice reverberating like thunder in the open air.

    "Alright!" Ye Tiance looked at his disciple, her pitiable state tugging at his heartstrings. "Thisd possessesyers of Sword Aura that reach up to the heavens and a talent in swordsmanship that is unparalleled. That''s the source of his current superiorbat abilities. However, all of this is nothing! When ites to cultivating, the final frontier is the grade of the Sword Soul. That is the greatest gift bestowed by the heavens upon a prodigy! Your strength is not for now, but for the future!"

    With Ye Tiance''s encouraging words, Jiang Yue''s spirit ignited, a fierce fire zing in her heart.

    "Yun Xiao, what''s the use of your current strength? My peerless Sword Soul is the capital to cleave a path to bing an Immortal!"

    "A person nurtured secretly by the Sword Pavilion for years, relying on everything the Pavilion has to offer, utilizing demon bones and pills as short-term investments, what do you have topete with me in the long run, you scoundrel?"

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM!! </i>As Jiang Yue advanced towards the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone like an empress of the Immortal path, every individual in Azure Spirit Sword Sect felt their hearts race uncontrobly!

    Ye Tiance was no exception. His eyes turned a vivid red, deeply affected by the intense atmosphere.

    He had never witnessed a Sword Soul measurement that transcended the Comet grade in his lifetime.

    "The potential of this youngdy... not even the heavens and earth can obstruct her!" On the high tform, Yao Manxue clenched her hands tightly, unable to sit still, her eyes fixated on the progressing figure.

    Only Elder Fan remained different from the rest! He pondered deeply, his eyes carrying a profound depth to them. "The Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone is for measuring two people''s Sword Souls at the same time, right? Who was measuring alongside Jiang Yue at the time?" he asked Yao Manxue.

    "I''m not sure. No one mentioned it, probably just a nameless rookie," Yao Manxue smiled cheekily. "Don''t worry, Elder Fan. My little sister judged this on the spot. She''s meticulous and would not make such a basic mistake."

    "Where is your sister?" Elder Fan asked.

    "Uh..." Yao Manxue froze.

    "Let''s start the measurement first!" Elder Fan uttered before sealing his lips, falling into silence.

    Far away, Zhao Xuanran nced at the young man in white beside her, a sh of unusual light in her beautiful eyes, her lips parting slightly. Not many people were aware of who had measured their Sword Soul alongside Jiang Yue. But everyone in the Sword Pavilion knew!

    "Junior Brother Yun seems to be quite anticipating it, so... are we going to have a good show to watch?" Zhao Xuanran asked herself, her voice tinged with curiosity.

 Chapter 039 - Sword Inheritance Stone Shattered, An Immortal of the Ages...?

    <h4>Chapter 039 - Sword Inheritance Stone Shattered, An Immortal of the Ages...?</h4>

    The testing of the Sword Soul! Jiang Yue was once again the center of universal attention.

    Ye Tiance supported his beloved disciple, guiding her to stand before the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone.

    "This Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone needs to be driven by the forces of Yin and Yang. So, it requires thebined strength of two individuals. But this Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone can automatically absorb the power of the Four Symbols of Heaven and Earth into the Sword Soul, a single person is sufficient!" Yu Xuanzhou stood on the high tform, reminiscing about the event that had unfolded a few days prior, flooded with emotions.

    "So you witnessed Jiang Yue shattering the Sword Inheritance Stone with your own eyes?" the Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, inquired with a cold smirk.

    "Naturally." Yu Xuanzhou nodded affirmatively.

    "Any insights?" Zhang Jian asked, a sarcastic grinced his face.

    "The journey of cultivation, it seems, is fundamentally dictated by innate talent! Those with unrivaled talent, even if they lose several times, have the chance to reim their victories one day." Yu Xuanzhou nced at Yun Xiao and shook his head in a sigh, "On the other hand, those with lesser talent, no matter the effort exerted or the astonishing swordsmanship they disy, no matter how many demon bones they consume, they still find themselves relegated to being mere backdrops at this moment!"

    "Profound!" Zhang Jian apuded mockingly.

    "A first in a thousand years, shattering the Sword Inheritance Stone, even amon man has to admit defeat!" Yu Xuanzhou remarked with augh.

    "It''s starting!" As Zhang Jian''s words echoed, Jiang Yue leaned one hand on the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, and with the other, she summoned her Ice Moon Sword Soul. Upon its emergence, a veil of frost and snow engulfed the Sword Inheritance Stone, as if intending to bury it within an icy world.

    "Whoa!" Witnessing this scene, the crowd erupted in amazement, fixating on the Sword Soul with eyes filled with envy and admiration.

    "A peerless prodigy, destined to stand at the pinnacle, no matter how many times she falls!"

    "Don''t underestimate a girl in poverty..." Words of such admiration were clearer than ever to Jiang Yue, who had lost her sight.

    <i>THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! </i>Her heart pounded furiously. From the moment she left the Cloud Nation, myriad images constantly shed through her mind, showcasing the grandeur of her path to immortality as a massive tapestry unfolding before her.

    The Heavenly Path, the Sword Debate, the Grand Conve! Three stains of disgraceful blood, like fresh spills, tarnished the tapestry of her Immortal journey. The ghastly sight filled with a fury that threatened to engulf the heavens!

    "Lil Yue, test your Sword Soul! Show the world this unmatched pride and let it be known in the annals of the Azure Spirit history!" Ye Tiance''s voice reverberated like a mighty bell echoing in her ears.

    <i>THUMP THUMP THUMP! </i>The heartbeat of the masses seemed to amalgamate into a powerful drumbeat, bearing down on Jiang Yue. Her spirit and indignation erupted like a volcano from within her.

    "Yun Xiao! Open your eyes and witness clearly! I will rise above as an Immortal, while you''ll remain a mere mortal! It''s only natural that our paths will diverge!" Jiang Yue dered fiercely, burning with a desire to prove her own self-worth. "In the future,moners like you shall prostrate themselves before me with reverence!"

    Jiang Yue could never have dreamed that she would utter these same words to another Yun Xiao. In the past, after speaking these words, she had ordered Ye Guying to y that mortal with a single sword strike. But today, she was ready to ascend to immortality!

    Though Jiang Yue was now blind, she could still precisely target the sword cavities within the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone. At that moment, she realized she had waited for an eternity. She had rehearsed for several days, vividly imagining herself ascending to the clouds when the time finally came.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>The Ice Moon Sword Soul plunged into the cavity!

    "It''s begun!" A rxed smile radiated from Jiang Yue''s face. She already felt the energy of the Four Symbols¡ªAzure Dragon, Vermillion Bird, ck Tortoise, and White Tiger¡ªwrapping around her Sword Soul.

    <i>THUMP THUMP THUMP! </i>Her heart raced wildly, anticipating the thunderous apuse that was about toe.

    "The spotlight... it''s on..." Indeed, countless voices chimed in, transforming the entire Conve Mountain into a furnace of exhration, seemingly ready to ignite and burst into roaring mes.

    Jiang Yue released her grip! She spread her arms wide, facing the sky, a smile unfurling on her lips. <i>It''s time for the cheers</i>, she thought. She braced herself for a tidal wave of adoration! Moon or? She was anxious to find out!

    "Let the cheers ring out!" She tensed every muscle in her body. A moment passed. Then another.

    <i>Why isn''t there any sound...?</i>

    <i>Does the Sword Soul test usually take this long...?</i>

    Another moment went by. And yet another.

    <i>Why aren''t there any cheers?</i>

    In the blink of an eye, six breaths had psed. Suddenly, Jiang Yue''s heart turned icy cold. She couldn''t see! The profound silence felt like an army of ghosts advancing towards her in the darkness.

    "Master, are the results not out yet?" Jiang Yue quivered inwardly, attempting to lighten the mood with a jest to Ye Tiance beside her.

    "Test it again!" Ye Tiance''s voice seemed like a severed kite, drifting further and further away.

    "Test it again? Did I ce it in the wrong spot? I''m so silly! Hehe..." Jiang Yue stuck her tongue out yfully, once again grasping the Ice Moon Sword Soul. But her hand, the one holding the sword, was trembling. Trembling wildly! It could even be described as convulsing!

    <i>CLATTER CLATTER CLATTER! </i>The sword chamber wasrge, but try as she might, Jiang Yue couldn''t find the courage to ce her Sword Soul into the sanctum. Her face, once brimming with dreams and anticipation, was now a ghastly white canvas of despair.

    Out of nowhere, a hand, firm and somewhat brusque, mped onto hers, yanking her forward with little ceremony. The Ice Moon Sword Soul finally found its way back into the sword chamber, summoning the elemental powers of heaven and earth once again.

    "I... I want to... make a name..." Jiang Yue''s heart hammered wildly, her lush lips quivering with an amalgam of fear and hope.

    The world held its breath with her, five excruciating moments ticking by, leaving nothing but an oppressive silence in their wake. She could contain herself no longer as tears, thick and crimson, cascaded down, a tragic waterfall staining her baster cheeks.

    Blind and bewildered, she felt as though an unyielding darkness engulfed her, spirits in the billions swooping down to swallow her whole.

    "Master... if... if I only achieve a lower Moon ranking, it''s... it''s not the end of the world, right? I can still strive to be better," her voice trembled, forcing a smile that looked more like a grimace.

    "Test it again!!!" A voice, primal and racked with agony, exploded beside her, piercing the silence like a de through flesh. It was her master''s voice, so distorted by raw anger, frustration, desperation, and brutality that it hardly seemed human.

    Why was he acting so distraught, so out of character? This was the man who maintained an icy demeanor even when his little brother, Ye Tianzhao, was killed, even when his son Ye Tianyuan fell in battle. Why was he throwing a hysterical fit in front of a crowd, as if his honor had been stripped and trampled upon mercilessly?

    <i>Why? </i>Before she could fathom an answer, she found herself roughly dragged once more, her hand almost entirely engulfed by the sanctum.

    "Master... Master..." The words barely escaped Jiang Yue as she clung to the man''s robes, her breathing in shallow, desperate gasps, as though she were drowning in an endless abyss, the insurmountable pressure stifling every attempt to breathe.

    "What is the quality of my Sword Soul?" she sobbed, tears flowing unbidden now. A cry, deste and raw, escaped her, echoing through the solemn air. All she wished for was a glimpse, a mere moment to witness the truth. Yet, it felt like fate conspired against her, a cruel puppeteer hiding the truth just beyond her reach, feeding her nothing but a relentless diet of anxiety and terror.

    With a sudden, ruthless force, she was torn away from the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, the cold ground greeting her with a harsh p. A sob, lost and hollow, echoed through the once sacred ground, the sound of dreams shattering into a million irretrievable pieces.

    Jiang Yue could feel it, the man who had violently taken hold of her was tearing at his own seams, perhaps even more frayed than she was. But why? An eerie silence enveloped the surroundings.

    It wasn''t until she crumpled to the ground that a buzzing hum broke through, stirring a tempestuous uproar among the crowd. But this was no celebration; it was a chorus of disbelief echoing through the crowd.

    From every direction, voices thundered, unyielding in their harsh verdict¡ª"Lower Comet grade!"

    Those words struck her like a quartet of swords, each piercing through her head, throat, heart, and chest right there on the spot.

    A Lower Comet grade Sword Soul! Not even Mid, let alone High! A rank even with Wang Feng, just a notch above Cai Maomao, yet falling short whenpared to Yao Zijin or Ye Tianyuan.

    "I...I must have heard wrong..." Jiang Yue whispered, a tremulous note in her voice as she tried to lift herself from the ground.

    "Lower Comet grade!" The crowd''s fervent repetition of the damning judgment knocked her down once more, each syble bearing down on her like a relentless wave.

    Each person enunciated those words with a force that seemed almost savage. A Lower Comet grade might have been amendable aplishment under different circumstances. It was indeed a mark of a talent on the path of the sword, a promising future beckoning as a disciple of the Sword Venerable.

    But not here, not now! It didn''t merit Jiang Yue''s current standing, high above the clouds. It didn''t warrant the Divine Sea Pill, nor the sacrifice of a hundred and neen senior disciples. It certainly wasn''t worthy of a figure like Elder Fan personally delivering a Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone from the Sea of Swords, and even dying the reveal to him specifically for <i>greater impact</i>''.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD!! </i>Those shocked exmations struck her relentlessly, pinning her to the ground, bloodied and battered.

    "No! This can''t be! I...I shattered the Sword Inheritance Stone! How could I be Lower Comet grade? I''m a peerless immortal prodigy!" Jiang Yue railed, scrambling to her feet and screaming at the crowd in destion. s, she could see no one.

    Countless Sword Cultivators gazed at her now crumbling, despairing figure, falling into a heavy silence, sighing in collective disdain.

    As Jiang Yue''s halo faded, she plummeted from her pedestal high above the heavens, crashing heavily to the mortal ground, her face marred and bleeding. She had transformed from a revered Immortal prodigy into the butt of a cruel joke at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    Would this event be recorded in the annals of history? Indeed, as a joke cruel enough to etch into the scrolls of time.

    Those sighs reverberating through the crowd, mirrored the profound scorn the Sword Cultivators held for her recent actions, a scathing judgment that bore no appeal.

    "Master!" Jiang Yue could sense his aura around her. Crying and howling, she scrabbled and rolled over to where Ye Tiance stood, clutching desperately at the hem of his sword robe.

    "Get lost!" With a fierce kick, Ye Tiance sent her flying a few meters away.

    "Ugh..." Jiang Yue crashed to the ground, a cloak of dirt adorning her, she gasped in the biting air.

    "Is this... the path of an Immortal...?" Shey face down, kissing the cold earth, a stream of blood escaping her lips. Around her, the crowd jeered non-stop. That kick from Ye Tiance hadnded squarely on her abdomen, nearly ruining her Dantian, a pain that lingered, a cruel reminder of her fall from grace.

    Jiang Yue remained blinded, unable to see, and in this pitch-ck world, the weight of despair bore down on her even more fiercely. She curled up on the muddy ground, resembling a boiled shrimp, as tears mingled with blood streamed unchecked.

    She knew everyone remained silent, a captive audience to her miserable state... And this scene would be etched in their memories for a lifetime. A Comet grade Sword Soul of the lowest quality!

    Had the Sword Inheritance Stone not shattered, Jiang Yue could have been a respected disciple of a Sword Venerable, soaring freely through the skies. But now! Being thrown up and then mmed back down, everything had changed.

    She had cost Ye Tiance decades of prestige, utterly destroyed with a single act of rage. His uncontroble fury revealed a mind as twisted and torn as Jiang Yue''s.

    Jiang Yue had descended into despair. "Senior Brother Ye, Senior Brother Ye, save me, please save me..." With a raspy voice, she called out that name, her throat stinging from the onught of grit and sand.

    Sadly, the person she called was not in Azure Spirit. Even if he had been there, would he have rescued her from this mire now? She was just Lower Comet grade, another mere Wang Feng!

    She couldn''t even reach the expected Upper Comet grade that Ye Guying anticipated.

    "The Sword Soul that shattered the Sword Inheritance Stone..." As Jiang Yue wallowed in her despair, reminiscing about that fateful day, Suddenly, the image of the young man in white, who had measured his Sword Soul with her, crashed into her mind.

    "Uh?" An overwhelming surge of emotion led to Jiang Yue spitting out another mouthful of blood.

    "Yun... Yun Xiao!" Her wretched scream shifted the entire focus of those present on the Conve Mountain towards the blood-robed youth. This included all the Sword Cultivators on the First Sword Peak whose faces were ashen. And a furiously blushing, almost liver-colored, Ye Tiance! With a sudden turn, they fixed their gaze piercingly upon Yun Xiao, their hearts suddenly thrown into a tumultuous sea of shock and bewilderment.

    In the midst of the Sword Pavilion''s members... Yun Xiao observed Jiang Yue¡¯s self-imposed destruction, his gaze steady and undisturbed, embodying the truth of his earlier words. As the saying goes, "Pride goeth before destruction!"

    The higher one soared, the harder the fall. And Jiang Yue''s descent this time was far more tragic than even Yun Xiao had anticipated, especially given her pathetic Lower Comet grade Sword Soul.

    <i>Tragic? No, this is nothing but the repayment of a debt you owe me. You and Ye Guying still have a hefty debt to repay for the deaths of countless citizens of the Cloud Nation. </i>Yun Xiao''s heart was as cold as an icy wastnd.

    Would he sympathize with her just because she had met a tragic end? Then who would spare a thought for him, who was killed with a single sword stroke? Or the countlessmoners who had been bitten to death by the venomous serpants?

    Was it really tragic? Yun Xiao felt that it was far from enough. The real truth was yet toe.

    "I¡¯ve got it!" Suddenly, a burly middle-aged man atop the tform bellowed. Without hesitation, he leaped down, rushing towards Yun Xiao. It was Yu Xuanzhou, from the Seventh Sword Peak.

    "Yun Xiao, do you remember me? I spoke up for you during the Sword Soul assessment at the Sword Inheritance tform!" Yu Xuanzhou said, scratching his head and grinning sheepishly.

    "I remember," Yun Xiao nodded.

    But he also remembered how Yu Xuanzhou had advised him against choosing the Seventh Sword Peak, and the disgusting look on Yu Xuanzhou¡¯s face as he stood beside the Seventh Sword Venerable who had supported Ye Tiance in activating the Sword Sealing Formation.

    "Good that you remember." Yu Xuanzhou walked beside Yun Xiao, pped him on the shoulder, and then addressed the crowd, "Jiang Yue only possesses a Lower Comet grade Sword Soul, but somehow shattered the Rank Two Stone Sword Inheritance Stone. I''m sure you all find that perplexing, right? As one of the elders who oversaw the Heavenly Path Trial that day, allow me to unveil the truth to you all!"

    "The truth?" For a moment, every eye was set aze, intently focused on Yun Xiao, hearts pounding wildly anew.

    "Yes, the truth is¡ª" Yu Xuanzhou pointed towards Yun Xiao, his eyes filled with admiration, "The one who stood beside Jiang Yue at the Sword Inheritance Stone that day was none other than Yun Xiao!"

    "What?!" The Conve Mountain echoed with shock.

    Yun Xiao had continuously dominated in the Sword Debate and the Grand Conve, earning the awe and respect of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. His only perceived w was the supposedly poor quality of his Sword Soul. But now, Yu Xuanzhou''s deration left everyone breathless...

    "Haven''t any of you ever doubted it? While Yun Xiao is indeed amazingly talented in swordsmanship and possesses a powerful Sword Aura, it would be impossible for him to be so formidable with just a Lower Meteor grade Sword Soul, right?

    "That''s why I''m one hundred percent certain that the one who shattered the Sword Inheritance Stone, the true prodigious talent, is none other than Yun Xiao, a disciple of the Sword Pavilion standing right here beside me!

    "As for the validity of my im, why don''t we have my brother Yun Xiao test his Sword Soul and reveal the truth?" Yu Xuanzhou¡¯s voice boomed, reverberating like a p of thunder, stirring the hearts of the silent audience, electrifying the previously somber atmosphere.

    Sword Aura, talent in swordsmanship, and now potentially a supreme Sword Soul? This was the hallmark of a perfect sword prodigy!

    "After all, someone indeed shattered the Sword Inheritance Stone, right?" Yu Xuanzhou thundered, his voice echoing throughout the hushed vicinity, leaving a lingering resonance that promised the revtion of a stunning truth. "So, once he takes the test, all the suspense will be lifted..."

    The Sword Cultivators, with parched lips and rigid expressions, watched the young man stained in blood, their hearts surging like tumultuous seas.

    "Yun Xiao, I must apologize for my behavior that day. I truly didn''t recognize the greatness before me. Your Sword Soul is certainly not an ordinary one!" Yu Xuanzhou turned around, his eyes twinkling with excitement, a heartyugh escaping him.

    "Oh, is that so?" the corner of Yun Xiao''s mouth curved upwards. Despite the smile gracing his face, there was an icy coldness lurking in the depths of his gaze. But to have this sort of man rushing over to grovel at his feet, it clearly illustrated that he had sessfully subdued Ye Tiance and his entourage.

    "Yun Xiao, step onto the Sword Inheritance Stone!" Yu Xuanzhou urged. Many people echoed the sentiment, their voices tinged with fervor.

    "Silence!" Ye Tiance stood defiantly before the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, his eyes brimming with murderous intent as he fixed them sternly on Yun Xiao. "This Sword Inheritance Stone was brought here by Elder Fan from the Sea of Swords, and is not open for testing by themon riff-raff!"

    "Scared, are we? You''re just afraid that my Junior Brother Yun''s Sword Soul will be too high, drawing the attention of the powerful figures from the Sea of Swords!" Zhao Xuanran''s voice pierced through the air, cold and merciless, stripping away at Ye Tiance''s fa?ade.

    Ye Tiance''splexion turned an ugly shade of pale green. The cultivators from the First Sword Peak gathered firmly beside the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, making it abundantly clear that they had no intention of allowing Yun Xiao to proceed.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Just then, a figure with a powerful presence, a golden-haired elder, descended amidst the gathered crowd. <i>BUZZ!</i> His aura forced everyone to involuntarily take a step or two back. It was none other than Elder Fan!

    The crowd remembered vividly that Elder Fan had broken the Sword Sealing Formation with a single stroke, showcasing unparalleled strength as he rescued Jiang Yue. Now, he was making his move for the first time, but what was his intention?

    "He couldn''t possibly be nning to assist Ye Tiance in eliminating Yun Xiao, could he..." A chill ran down the spines of many.

    The Conve Mountain once again plunged into eerie silence.

    "Elder Fan!" Ye Tiance greeted with a bow, uttering respectfully, "Ye Guying¡ª" Before he could finish, Elder Fan raised a hand to halt him, then turned towards Yun Xiao.

    With a sudden warm smile gracing his face, Elder Fan spoke, "Yun Xiao, my young friend., Would you be interested in letting this old man personally guide you in testing your Sword Soul?"

    Upon hearing this proposal, both Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue felt as if they had been struck by thunder, their faces mirroring the shock that reverberated in their hearts.

 Chapter 040 - Ye Guyings Two Letters (1)

    <h4>Chapter 040 - Ye Guying''s Two Letters (1)</h4>

    <i>SPUTTER! </i>Jiang Yue, who had been led away by the elders, suddenly spewed a mouthful of coagted blood upon hearing Elder Fan''s words. The whispers spread like wildfire, intertwining with hushedughter.

    "Even Elder Fan has personally stepped in!"

    "That heavyweight from the Sea of Swords was actually invited by Ye Tiance. The irony of this situation is just too rich."

    "Look at Ye Tiance''s face, it''s like he''s swallowed a fly."

    ...

    The crowd couldn''t help but keep their giggles at bay.

    "Just what kind of grade does Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul have?" Their shock soon morphed into avid curiosity, their gazes transfixed on the youth in question.

    "With Elder Fan leading personally, it is indeed a moment of glory for Azure Spirit!" For a moment, even Yun Xiao''s blood-stained robe seemed to radiate with an exceptional glow.

    The elder''s golden eyebrows twitched slightly as he regarded Yun Xiao. "How about it, Yun Xiao, my young friend?"

    "Elder Fan, the Grand Conve isn''t over yet, and I still intend to fight for the championship. Could we possibly resume this after the Conve?" Yun Xiao''s words caught the crowd off guard.

    Realization dawned upon them. "Oh right, the Conve has just begun!"

    "I thought the battle between the Sword Pavilion and the First Sword Peak was the final showdown."

    "The ownership of the Azure Spirit Cauldron hasn''t been decided yet!"

    Hearing this, Elder Fan grinned, chiding himself warmly, "Thanks for reminding me. I was too eager to witness your talent and forgot about the event at hand. How embarrassing! In that case, let''s continue with the Conve first."

    "Thank you for understanding, Elder Fan." Yun Xiao replied calmly.

    Despite his calm demeanor, everyone knew the battle was practically over. Yun Xiao had single-handedly decimated the strongest First Sword Peak, leaving no doubt about the oue of the ownership of the Azure Spirit Cauldron, or about Yun Xiao''s immense talent.

    He had already shaken the Azure Spirit Sword Sect to its core! Jiang Yue was ruined, and Ye Tiance had lost face. Testing the Sword Soul further was simply gilding the lily, no longer of any real significance.

    "The Grand Conve continues!" Yao Manxue, her face a patchwork of green and purple hues, could do nothing but carry on with the arrangements.

    Elder Fan returned to the viewing tform, his demeanor leaving no room for negotiation.

    "Elder Fan, about Ye Guying..." Ye Tiance began, attempting to approach.

    "Until Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul is revealed, don''t speak in my presence." Elder Fan cut him off, his cold gaze settling on Ye Tiance for a moment before dismissing him entirely.

    "Yes..." Ye Tiance bowed his head, a storm brewing in his eyes.

    The battle of the Grand Conve resumed once more!

    Each Sword Peak still had to fight for their ranking. This should have been a passionate, grand event, with hundreds of swords soaring through the sky. However, Yun Xiao''s overpowering presence had eclipsed the excitement, rendering the subsequent battles somewhat nd.

    In the next stage, the Sword Pavilion faced the Sixth Sword Peak. But the entire team from the Sixth Sword Peak surrendered, over a hundred people conceding to a single individual. This scene was indeed unprecedented in the history of the Azure Spirit.

    Once again, a wave of cheers erupted for Yun Xiao, the lone figure who had rewritten history and stolen the show.

    In a corner, where the dust met the despair, Jiang Yue was abandoned, her sight stolen by the blindness that now consumed her. The joyous cheers echoing around her pierced through her heart like a thousand swords, bringing with them a sorrow as profound as the oceans. At this devastating moment, she yearned for the release of death.

    Tears cascaded like rivers as she ced the tip of her icy moon sword soul at her heart, whispering a name, a prayer, a farewell¡ª"Brother Ye..." Yet as time trickled on, she found herself unable to muster the courage to plunge into the abyss.

    Out of nowhere, a mysterious hand reached out, enveloping hers with a grip as gentle as the moonlight. The fragrance that apanied this gesture was intoxicating, seeping into Jiang Yue''s bones with a heady, floral melody that was unparalleled. Even Jiang Yue, a woman herself, found herself losing track of time and ce in this entrancing aroma.

    "Who are you?" she asked, her voice trembling like leaves under a gusty wind.

    The tender hand traced a path along her arm, eventuallying to rest on her face, its touch as soft as a cloud drifting across the sky. "Your name is Jiang Yue, and I am Moon Fairy. We walk the same path," the stranger replied, her voice melodious and sweet, like the caress of a spring breeze on blooming flowers.

    Moon Fairy? The enigmatic woman, cloaked in veils, who had been invited as a distinguished guest by her master. Recollection dawned on Jiang Yue. This was a woman who had always been secluded in a corner, a silent enigma whose identity seemed known only to Ye Tiance. Despite being a woman herself, Jiang Yue couldn''t help but be captivated by Moon Fairy''s mesmerizing power.

    "Jiang Yue, I can sense the resentment brewing in you. It''s beautiful, like a deadly flower in full bloom," Moon Fairy whispered, her voice drifting like a melody in a dream, tinged with an allure that was both sinister and enchanting.

    Jiang Yue felt like she was floating amidst a pink mist, theughter of Moon Fairy echoing around her like chimes in the wind. Her anger seemed to be magnifying under this strange influence, and a fire of wrath began to simmer within her.

    "Meet me in the Misty Valley tonight. I can heal your eyes," Moon Fairy murmured, her voice a gentle stroke across Jiang Yue''s soul.

    "No, no, I don''t know you," Jiang Yue replied, shaking her head vehemently. "My master will heal me."

    Moon Fairy''sugh turned sardonic, her voice enveloping Jiang Yue like a warm yet deceitful breeze. "He won''t. Your presence now is a stain, a disgrace to him. Ye Tiance wants you gone, can''t you see?"

    As Moon Fairy''s seductive voice woven tales of betrayal and abandonment, a tangle of confusion, anger, and despair tightened around Jiang Yue''s heart. The cruel words wed at her, dragging her further into a pit of turmoil and dark desires. In her mind''s eye, she saw herself standing above Yun Xiao, the young man who had always overshadowed her, his eyes filled with desperation and longing for her. It was a twisted vision, filled with the sweet scent of revenge and power.

    For a moment, lost in the tantalizing tales spun by Moon Fairy, Jiang Yue allowed herself to be swept away by the intoxicating aroma and the fantasies of dominance and adoration. But as the vision grew darker, a spark of resistance flickered within her, a tiny ember of her former self striving to break free from the engulfing darkness.

    But was it already toote? Thebyrinthine paths of vengeance and lust were converging, and Jiang Yue found herself standing at the crossroads, her soul teetering dangerously on the brink of oblivion.

    ¡°Men! I want all men to grovel before me!¡± Jiang Yue shrieked, her face contorting in a grotesque show of rage and yearning, the vehemence of her whisper almost as jarring as a scream.

    "Well, then you shoulde find me tonight." The woman''s words lingered, a giggling retreat that grew fainter with each passing moment, leaving Jiang Yue in a cloud of mystifying, intoxicating fragrance.

    Stuck in her little corner of the world, it took a considerable amount of time before Jiang Yue could shake off the stupor that enveloped her, her expression morphing into one of confusion. ¡°Just now... did someonee by?¡± she mumbled, the tip of her nose still tingling with a lingering scent¡ªa fragrant aroma that soothed her soul.

    But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t recall who it was. Only a location remained, etched into her memory.

    ¡°Misty Valley...¡± As she murmured these words, almost like a sacred mantra, the Conve Mountain erupted in euphoria, voices reverberating through the valleys and peaks.

    ¡°Congrattions to the Sword Pavilion, who have reimed the top spot of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect after a gap of three years!¡±

    ¡°The prodigious Yun Xiao stood alone, his sword in hand, sweeping across the seven grand sword peaks with an unbeatable stance, carving a new legendary chapter for Azure Spirit!¡±

    The echoes of the Grand Conve came to an end amidst the frenzied roars. The Sword Pavilion stood victorious, the pecking order of the previous championspletely upturned, with the once dominating peaks failing to secure even a spot in the top three.

    And so, the Sword Pavilion clinched first ce, followed by the Second Sword Peak in second, and the Fifth Sword Peak in third. This new ranking would dictate the distribution of Azure Spirit''smon resources for theing year¡ªincluding precious Spirit Stone Mines, magical herbs, and demon bones. But above all, the coveted Azure Spirit Cauldron was the prize to behold.

    ¡°Honored ancestors of the Sword Pavilion, our disciple Yun Xiao has finally avenged our past humiliations and reimed the Azure Spirit Cauldron!¡± Grandpa Qin fell to his knees, directing his tear-stricken face towards the direction of the Sword Pavilion, his heart a tumultuous sea of emotion.

    Among the throng of people, Yun Xiao turned his gaze towards the members of the Sword Pavilion. A woman in a ck gown, with skin as white as porcin, stood there, her eyes slightly reddened. Although she was normally reserved, the tempest inside her was clearly visible in her expressive eyes.

    ¡°Senior Sister Zhao, do we have any more wine?¡± Yun Xiao asked, his youthful face smeared with blood, yet bearing an innocent smile that seemed almost out of ce.

    ¡°Tonight, we''ll buy plenty,¡± Zhao Xuanran replied, her rare smile blooming like a radiant flower under the sun.

    ¡°Yes, you are about to be rich,¡± Yun Xiao joked, hisughter ringing pure and unburdened. With 6,969 Spirit Stones at his disposal, wasn''t he capable of squandering a small fortune of 300,000? Regardless, that chubby fellow would surelyugh himself silly. His bet of 1,000 Spirit Stones had managed to multiply into tens of thousands.

    As the Grand Conve concluded and the dust settled, the oue was clear as day. Yun Xiao''s formidable strength had already captured the hearts of the people, leaving an indelible mark on all who witnessed his prowess. Everyone knew of his extraordinary talent. But just how extraordinary was it?

    "Yun Xiao, ascend to the Sword Inheritance Stone!" Suddenly, thousands of Sword Cultivators shouted in unison, a scene unprecedented in history.

    "Yun Xiao, the genius, please grace us with a demonstration!" Yu Xuanzhou chimed in, his eyes brimming with reverence.

    Yun Xiao raised his head. An elder with golden hair akin to a majestic lion already stood beside the Sword Inheritance Stone that bore the weight of the world, smiling benignly at Yun Xiao with his hands sped behind him.

    <i>THUMP THUMP THUMP! </i>The heartbeat of the crowd reverberated. In unison, they cleared a path to the Sword Inheritance Stone for Yun Xiao.

    "Is this the path to soaring heights?" Yun Xiao''s eyes sharpened. He had no intention of ying coy. A genius is a genius! Why should he fear a test of the Sword Soul? Living a life with vitality was what mattered most! Hesitation only shortened one''s spirit, how could one carve out a path to the heavens with such a demeanor?

    Without another word, Yun Xiao stepped forward, transcendent in spirit amidst the watchful eyes of the masses, crossing the crowd towards that radiant ce.

    "Heroes emerge from youth! With such courage, you are destined to be a dragon amongst the cultivators!" Elder Fan proimed, extending a hand towards him. "My name is Fan Jing, and I am willing to be your guide on the path of cultivation!"

    The crowd erupted in cheers, while Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue at a distance looked increasingly displeased, as if they were dressing others in wedding garments. Their trembling hands were barely concealed beneath their sleeves.

    Yun Xiao turned towards Elder Fan. "Along this path of cultivation, opportunists really are a dime a dozen," he sneered inwardly. Great power beckoned submission! No need for further words. To wield power to bully others was simply exhrating!

    <i>THUD THUD THUD!! </i>In a few strides, Yun Xiao stood before the Sword Inheritance Stone. "A test of the Sword Soul. If the grade is high enough, I can also use power to dominate others, suppressing all opposition!"

    No need to personally stem the tide; just revealing his background would make people kneel and tremble, wasn''t that exhrating? All he needed was to grasp the essence of this concept.

    "Come now!" Elder Fan chuckled, stroking his beard. "Come!"

    Yun Xiao approached him. The moment he unleashed the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, the whole ce fell into a hushed silence, thousands of eyes fixed on him. At the promation of Elder Fan, the fervent anticipation of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect soared to heights untold.

    ¡°Behold, a genius graces our world, let us witness his measure here!¡± Elder Fan dered, his voice echoing across the hushed mountaintop of Conve Peak. But then, like a bolt of lightning tearing through a tranquil sky, a thunderous cry disrupted the calm.

 Chapter 041 - Ye Guyings Two Letters (2)

    <h4>Chapter 041 - Ye Guying''s Two Letters (2)</h4>

    "News from the Sea of Swords!" a voice boomed, resonating across Conve Mountain, abruptly halting Yun Xiao''s momentum. Everyone''s brows furrowed in unison as they turned to see the source of the interruption.

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>Four streaks of sword rays descended from the sky, ignoring the palpable tension in the air andnding directly amidst the thick crowd.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The spectators parted, leaving a cleared area beside Yun Xiao. With a series of loud thuds, four figures touched down steadily.

    Yun Xiao turned to see the arrivals: leading them was a woman d in purple battle armor, a fierce yet beautiful vision with her long hair tied back, a pronounced aquiline nose, and a figure thatbined grace with undeniable strength. A wild, untamed essence surrounded her, making her an alluring force to be reckoned with. She was but a few years older than Yun Xiao, a wild mare of the Azure Spirit, known for both her audacity and her allure.

    ¡°Ziyan!¡± Ye Tiance stepped forward, addressing her with a grave tone.

    ¡°Father, what''s going on here?¡± Ye Ziyan swept her cold gaze over the gathering, sensing that something was amiss.

    Yun Xiao pieced it together quickly. This was Ye Tiance''s eldest daughter and also his first disciple, a young woman renowned for her fiery spirit and penchant for besting men inbat. Her influence within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect was only surpassed by Ye Guying and Zhao Xuanran.

    Her entourage consisted of Ye Tiance''s second, third, and fourth disciples, rounding out the group of his direct disciples, whose numbers had tragically dwindled.

    ¡°They brought news from the Sea of Swords?¡± the crowd murmured, their curiosity piqued.

    Elder Fan¡¯s face contorted with displeasure at the interruption. ¡°Step aside, all of you,¡± he ordered, a hint of annoyance in his voice.

    Ye Ziyan raised an eyebrow defiantly. ¡°Elder Fan, Ye Guying has practically turned the Sea of Swords upside down this time!¡± she proimed.

    ¡°Upside down?¡± Elder Fan scoffed with a coldugh. ¡°No matter the case, they better not disrupt the birth of a-grade Sword Soul!¡± His stern reprimand hung in the air for a moment before his eyes softened, admiration returning as he looked towards Yun Xiao.

    Ye Tiance exchanged a quick, stern nce with his daughter before turning to Elder Fan, his voice tinged with urgency. ¡°Elder Fan, please hear Ziyan out.¡±

    "I have three things to say!" Ye Ziyan dered with a grin that promised havoc. "I guarantee that after Elder Fan hears them, he will dash back to the Sea of Swords, bursting with pride to be acquainted with Swordking Ye."

    Elder Fan froze momentarily, then raised an eyebrow in skepticism. Could she really be that confident? "Speak," he urged coolly.

    Ye Ziyan turned a sweeping gaze upon the crowd, her eyes dancing with an unruly fervor. "First," she announced, voice echoing through the mountains, "Swordking Ye smashed the record in the Sea of Swords, inheriting the Rank 10 Azure Kite, undergoing an evolution of his Sword Soul right on the spot, ascending to Mid grade!"

    The news detonated through Conve Mountain, inciting a frenzy of gasps and exmations.

    "A Rank 10 Azure Kite?"

    "He actually underwent a Sword Soul evolution?"

    "A Mid grade Sword Soul? That''s esteemed even in the Sea of Swords!"

    The crowd erupted into chatter, their faces a mix of shock and awe, their eyes riveted on Ye Ziyan as she continued.

    "Yes! Ye Guying has lived up to our expectations!" Ye Tiance eximed with unrestrained joy, pping his hands in admiration. The pir of his faith had once again proven his worth, never disappointing him. Soaring within the ranks of the Sea of Swords was iparable to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect! And this was just the first piece of news!

    "Next!" Elder Fan was visibly shaken, taking a step towards Ye Ziyan, his back now to Yun Xiao.

    Ye Ziyan couldn''t contain her smile, a wild charm radiating from her as she breathed in deeply. Then, with a voice both booming and piercing, she roared with zealous fervor, "The reason why Swordking Ye could inherit the Rank 10 Azure Kite is because his true Dantian talent awakened! After evaluations, the Sea of Swords acknowledged his grade Dao Seed Talent! His Twin Dantian reportedly awakened its bloodline, morphing into the Nine Dragons Dantian, not only amplifying his power manifold but also skyrocketing his realm!"

    The crowd erupted once again, their cries shaking Conve Mountain to its very core.

    "A Dao Seed Talent? And it''s at the grade again?"

    "The Nine Dragons Dantian!!"

    Faces turned crimson with excitement, breaths caught in a thousand throats, hanging onto every word.

    "Excellent! Excellent! Excellent!" Ye Tiance bellowed,ughing heartily with tears of pride welling in his eyes, his face a beacon of radiant joy. "I told you all, Guying''s Dantian is his most terrifying talent on the path of immortality! Compared to Sword Soul talent, Dao Seed Talent is the true mark of a genius!"

    Elder Fan couldn''t hold back a grin, pping appreciatively and taking another step towards Ye Tiance. "Indeed, I have said before that Ye Guying is truly one of a kind, which is why I sent him to the Sea of Swords. His hard work has paid off, awakening the true bloodline of his Dantian."

    The crowd was now utterly spellbound, hanging on their every word, minds buzzing and throats choked with emotion, unable to utter a single word. Even Yun Xiao looked a bit stunned.

    "Blue Star, what''s going on?" he whispered, his brow furrowed in confusion.

    "You''ve struck gold," Blue Star replied sinctly.

    "How so?" Yun Xiao asked, still not quite grasping the gravity of the situation.

    "He''s absorbed far more from the Rain of Creation than I imagined! After pushing himself to the limits, he''s managed to tap into his full potential!" Blue Star remarked, brimming with anticipation. Essentially a Dao Seed Talent was a Seed of Creation!

    Yun Xiao hadn''t anticipated that cultivators had even managed to categorize the Seed of Creation into different grades. Previously, Ye Guying harbored a Seed of Creation of the Comet grade. But now, it skipped the Moon grade and directly evolved to grade!

    The unsealing of his Dantian talent allowed him to inherit the Rank 10 Azure Kite, triggering a progression even in his Sword Soul. Evolution of the Sword Soul was a considerably rare phenomenon. For most, the rank of their Sword Soul remained stagnant throughout their lifetime.

    "Is the Nine Dragons Dantian considered powerful?" Yun Xiao furrowed his brows, an air of skepticism enveloping him.

    "In the mortal realm, this is already an exceptional Seed of Creation. If you kill him and take the essence, your Primordial Void Technique can split into nine separate Primordial Voids!" Blue Star dered, his voice tinged with a ruthless undertone.

    "So, we''re striking it rich, huh?" Yun Xiao asked, almost speechless.

    "No shit!"

    "But he has be mightier, and his momentum is escting," Yun Xiao noted, sensing his own influence waning rapidly, being suppressed by the surging tide of awe and reverence directed towards the First Sword Peak, which was reiming its prominence as the paramount force in the Azure Spirit Sword.

    "People are once again regarding the First Sword Peak with reverence!"

    "What a load of crap!" Blue Star scoffed disdainfully.

    "Creator, if we devour him, it would save us a lot of effort!" Red Moon chimed in, gritting its teeth with an intense fervor.

    "I guess so!" Yun Xiao nodded in agreement.

    "You consume the Dantian, and I get the... milk! You''re not hogging it all this time!" Red Moon dered fiercely, its eyes ring ominously.

    "Ye Guying is a man, you know!" Yun Xiao eximed, covering his face with his hand in exasperation. Nevertheless, he had seen the bigger picture. His gaze intensified. The stronger Ye Guying became, the greater the harvest they would reap.

    "Ziyan, what''s the third thing you have to announce?" Elder Fan inquired with a smile, although his voice quavered slightly.

    All chatter ceased once again, every person holding their breath in suspense. The first two revtions had been earth-shattering; the third was bound to be monumental.

    Ye Ziyan reveled in the undivided attention from the crowd. Although the awe wasn''t directed at her, the exhration was palpable. She grinned at Elder Fan.

    Elder Fan gasped slightly, urging, "Please, go on."

    Ye Ziyan offered a yful smile, sweeping her gaze over the crowd before dramatically drawing out her announcement, "The Forbidden Tower opened its celestial gate for Swordking Ye on the spot! From now on, he is a member of the Forbidden Tower!"

    The atmosphere around Conve Mountain resonated with a deep humming, reverberating thrice.

    "The Forbidden Tower! The celestial gate has opened!!!"

    Many were left dumbstruck, their voices caught in their throats, unable to articte their astonishment.

    The Forbidden Tower! Upon hearing this, the faces of the individuals from Sword Pavilion turned ashen, a chilling realization setting in.

    Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue froze, unable to believe what echoed in their ears.

    "Ziyan, the Forbidden Tower?" Ye Tiance''s voice trembled as he asked.

    "Yes! The Forbidden Tower!" Ye Ziyan emphasized, pausing between the words.

    "The Forbidden Tower?!" Yao Manxue shrieked, her lips quivering. "If he only trains there for ten days, he''d surpass the prime Zhao Jianxing, right?"

    "Yes!!" Ye Tiance took a deep breath before erupting into wildughter.

    "Ha ha ha!"

    Many Sword Cultivators from the First, Third, and Sixth Peaks joined in the heartyughter. Elder Fan found himself enveloped in an awkward atmosphere, but he chimed in withughter nheless.

    "Well done, well done! Truly worthy of being the disciple I introduced to the Sea of Swords! Exceptional indeed! The glory of Azure Spirit for generations toe belongs to Ye Guying!" Elder Fan raised his voice, making sure everyone heard his promation.

    At this moment, the momentum of the Sword Pavilion plummeted, leaving Ye Tiance and the first peak basking in their renewed glory.

    In the crowd, Yu Xuanzhou''s face changed drastically. He hurriedly moved towards Ye Tiance, joining in theughter. "Swordking Ye is truly a dragon among men!"

    "Nonsense! Anyone who can stir up the Sea of Swords and enter the Forbidden Tower for cultivation is no ordinary figure!" The Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, chuckled.

    "Some people must be scared to death now," Yu Xuanzhou sneered, ncing at Yun Xiao. "As the saying goes, it''s still uncertain who will have thestugh, only the one whoughsst enjoys the bestugh!"

    Yun Xiao watched the performance of this stout and wide-waisted elder with calmness. The speed of this man''s change of face vividly illustrated the true nature of reality. Utterly ruthless!

    Ye Ziyan''s three sentences had unleashed an undercurrent, stirring violently in everyone''s hearts. Images of the ck-haired, white-browed young Sword Cultivator surged in people''s minds¡ªYe Guying, cold and decisive!

    "Swordking Ye is terrifying indeed..." Yu Xuanzhou gave a thumbs up, "I suggest we appoint Swordking Ye as the Sect Master! This position would give him more face in the Forbidden Tower!"

    The current Sect Master of Azure Spirit was still around, but no one countered Yu Xuanzhou''s disgraceful suggestion for the moment. Three announcements had suppressed the grand momentum. An eerie silence enveloped the entire ce.

    "Elder Fan!" Ye Tiance stepped forward, slinging an arm around Elder Fan''s shoulder, grinning, "Didn''t you say I couldn''t speak before Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul was assessed?"

    "It was just a joke! We are brothers, don''t take it to heart," Elder Fan responded with a sheepish smile.

    "Oh really?" Ye Tianceughed before suddenly pping Elder Fan on the head, "Look at my memory, Elder Fan still has to assess the Sword Pavilion genius''s Sword Soul! How could I have dyed it? If this angers the genius, I really fear he might kill me with a single sword strike, ha ha!"

    For a moment, many peopleughed, releasing the tension that had built up, as they found relief in the jovial banter. So, theughter now grew even more unrestrained, spreading across faces like wildfire on a prairie.

    "Come now, Elder Fan, why not have him tested? Maybe he''ll even shatter the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone? That would signify a Sword Soul that surpasses the level! He might even outshine Ye Guying, don''t you think?" Ye Tiance said, hisughter bubbling through his words, echoing grandly across the Sword Pavilion.

    A collective hum of anticipation rippled through the crowd, all eyes turning as one to Yun Xiao, who stood amidst them, a beacon of calm in a sea of bubbling excitement. After all, Blue Star had said he hit the jackpot, which supposedly meant a shortcut in his cultivation journey. So what was there to fret about?

    "Yun Xiao, show them!" Grandpa Qin''s voice crackled with rekindled rage, ringing out clearly amidst the mor.

    "Show them!" echoed the crowd, their spirits alight with fiery curiosity and barely contained resentment.

    "Compare with Ye Guying!" Cai Maomao bellow, fueling the growing fire of expectation.

    "Compare with what now? What makes him think he''s even in the same league as Senior Brother Ye?" A quivering feminine voice suddenly pierced through themotion, drawing everyone''s attention to Jiang Yue, whose face radiated admiration and longing for the individual bearing the surname Ye.

    For a brief moment, time seemed to freeze, all eyes once again turning to Yun Xiao. To test, or not to test? Through it all, Yun Xiao''s demeanor hadn''t faltered. His grip on the Heaven Burial Sword Soul tightened.

    "I just want to find out, what kind of Sword Inheritance Stone can withstand your sharpness?" He drew his sword! But at that very moment, the unforeseen urred. With a swift, sweeping motion, Elder Fan struck.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Like a leaf caught in a wild gust, Yun Xiao was swept off the Sword Inheritance Stone.

    In a blink, Elder Fan upied the spot where Yun Xiao had stood moments before, hurriedly stowing the massive Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone into a Pouch of Holding.

    An awkward hush descended upon the gathering, a stark contrast to the heated frenzy moments before. Even the usually vocal birds seemed to have lost their voices.

    Yun Xiao looked up, a wordless expression painting his features. What in the world?

    With a wave of impatience, Elder Fan addressed the crowd, "Everyone, I must inform you that the Sword Inheritance Stone was merely a borrowed item. Unfortunately, the borrowing period has expired, and it''s not suitable to use it any longer."

    The crowd offered no response, a palpable hush hanging heavily in the air.

    <i>Thud! </i>Without further ado, Elder Fan returned to Ye Tiance''s side, whispering conspiratorially, "As long as Yun XIao remains untested, there''s no certainty. No one can confirm whether the Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone shattering was its own fault, right?"

    "Absolutely! It must have been due to the deteriorating condition of our Azure Spirit''s Sword Inheritance Stone over the years!" Ye Tiance replied, a hearty chuckle escaping him.

    "Given that, I hope you can put in a good word for me with Ye Guying about... the earlier incidents," Elder Fan said, a trace of worry lining his face.

    "Rest easy, Elder Fan. As far as I''m concerned, nothing happened just now!" Ye Tiance reassured, hisughter a booming echo that cut through the lingering tension.

    "Hahaha!" Finally able to breathe a sigh of relief, Elder Fan joined in theughter.

    And so, Yun Xiao''s second attempt at evaluating his Sword Soul came to an abrupt end. He was speechless. Utterly speechless.

    "If anyone dares to ask me to test a Sword Soul again, I swear I''ll shove it right down their throat!" Yun Xiao fumed, a promise echoed in the swirling energies around him.

    While Ye Guying became the sensation of the Sea of Swords, not a shred of anger emanated from him.

    But Elder Fan withdrawing the Sword Inheritance Stone to prevent Yun Xiao from gaining fame... now that ticked him off. It left a bitter taste in his mouth, a sense of being yed like a fool. Yun Xiao gritted his teeth, his re sweeping across the assembly like a de seeking vengeance.

    "Just you wait!" At that moment, the Conve concluded. Yun Xiao and the Sword Pavilion had acquired the results they desired. Yet, a greater shadow began to loom ominously over them.

    It was clear to all. Once Ye Guying returned from his cultivation retreat in the Forbidden Tower, a thorough cleansing of the Azure Spirit would surely ensue. The Sword Pavilion, the Second Sword Peak... their fate seemed almost predictable.

    Elder Fan didn''t even dare to let Yun Xiao undertake the Sword Soul test. Who then would dare to defy the one hailed as the Swordking of the Forbidden Tower in the Sea of Swords?

    "The Sword Pavilion, victorious today and yesterday, yet doomed for the future."

    "How many days can they keep hold of the reimed Azure Spirit Cauldron?"

    "When Ye Guying returns, not even the Eight Swords Conve will remain for the Azure Spirit Sword Sect..."

    "The seven prodigies of the Sword Pavilion... amount to nothing!"

    Sighs and expressions of regret filled the air. A generation brimming with geniuses, yet only the strongest could truly make everyone kneel. At this juncture, many could only shake their heads in pity as they looked at Yun Xiao.

    "Why have Xiao, if you have Guying?"

    "Yun Xiao, born in an unfortunate time..."

    Amidst thementations of the crowd, amanding and icy female voice cut through.

    "Are you Yun Xiao?"

    All eyes turned to the speaker¡ªYe Ziyan. Yun Xiao was tall, but this Ye Ziyan stood nearly eye-to-eye with him.

    "What do you want?" Yun Xiao questioned, his gaze meeting hers without falter.

    Ye Ziyan flung a piece of paper towards him, stating, "Ye Guying sent you a message."

    Catching it deftly, Yun Xiao unfolded it to reveal just two words.

    "Cloud Nation!" The message, as cryptic as it was, held a gravity that seemed to pull all the surrounding noise and unrest into a silent vortex, leaving a tension that buzzed like a plucked string, resonating with unanswered questions and foreboding intrigue.

    Yun Xiao''s pupils contracted sharply. <i>Ye Guying! </i>He must have surmised a connection between him and the emperor of the mundane world in Cloud Nation, judging from Yun Xiao''s name and his actions towards Jiang Yue.

    "Why did he leave these two characters?" Blue Star wondered aloud, confusion knitting his brows.

    "It''s a warning. He''s cautioning me not to abandon the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, lest he forces themon folk of Cloud Nation to apany me in death," Yun Xiao stated, a simmering fury building within him as he crumpled the note. "However, he''s assuming too much!"

    Yun Xiao harbored no ns of fleeing. Instead, he awaited the moment Ye Guying would perfect his transcendent techniques and return, only to meet his demise.

    A delicateugh pierced the heavy atmosphere as Ye Ziyan suddenly spoke, "Zhao Xuanran, there is a message for you as well." She yfully tossed over another note, her voice taking on a teasing lilt. "Your wedding from three years ago was interrupted by a sudden misfortune. Yet, the Swordking hasn''t forgotten you. What kind of virtues did you umte in your past life to have such a manpletely smitten over you?"

    The mention of the wedding caught Yun Xiao off guard, his attention pivoting sharply towards Zhao Xuanran. She caught the flimsy paper, her eyes harboring nothing but murderous intent. Stretching his neck, Yun Xiao peeked at the note in her hands.

    It read, "My dear Xuanran, I will return in ten days, perfected. I hope to share a drink of Daughter''s Red wine with you under the osmanthus tree."

    <i>Daughter''s Red? </i>Yun Xiao''s gaze sought Zhao Xuanran, finding her momentarily stunned before she subconsciously met his eyes. A beat of silence followed, the air thick with unspoken words before Zhao Xuanran turned her head away.

    "Cough, cough." Yun Xiao murmured under his breath, a yful twinkle in his eyes, "By the time you, Ye Guying, return, Senior Sister Zhao''s wine jug would''ve grown mold."

    Wouldn''t Ye Guying spit blood on the spot if he returned only to find out about all these developments? This scenario promised to be more exhrating than Jiang Yue''s Sword Soul testing¡ªit was downright hrious!

    "I''d have drunk myself under the table by then, and you''re still holding onto hope?" Zhao Xuanran snorted, her words tinged with a bitterness that held a trace of mirth.

 Chapter 042 - Eat Up! Then, were going on a rampage!

    <h4>Chapter 042 - Eat Up! Then, we''re going on a rampage!</h4>

    After delivering her message, Ye Ziyan returned to the side of Ye Tiance, Elder Fan, and the others with a chilling smile. "Father, we shouldn''t touch them for now," she said casually.

    "Why? Yun Xiao destroyed the foundation of our First Sword Peak and killed many of your fellow disciples!" Ye Tiance''s voice was dark.

    "The Swordking will personally handle it," Ye Ziyan replied, a hint of reverence in her eyes. She was, of course, referring to Ye Guying.

    "Do you think he''ll scare them off before he even gets back?" Ye Tiance asked.

    "Do you think Zhao Xuanran would run?" Ye Ziyan countered.

    "No," Ye Tiance admitted, nodding. "They''re all waiting to die with the Sword Pavilion."

    "Then what''s there to worry about?" Ye Ziyan said, smirking.

    "Do you think Yun Xiao would run?" Ye Tiance asked coldly.

    "Swordking Ye said once the brat reads the letter, he won''t go anywhere," Ye Ziyan said, smirking again.

    "Understood," Ye Tiance said, finally reassured. "We''ll just wait for his return. Ten days is nothing."

    Yao Manxue chimed in, her voice light, "To be honest, with Zhao Jianxing and the existence of that Sword Heart, if we rush them, we might take losses. They''re already on borrowed time. It''s best left to Swordking Ye."

    "Exactly," Ye Ziyan nodded in agreement.

    "One more thing," Ye Tiance started.

    "What is it?"

    "Is Guying really interested in Zhao Xuanran?" Ye Tiance asked, shaking his head. "Given his rise, there must be countless noblewomen vying for his attention."

    Ye Ziyan chuckled, "Men, they always remember the beauties they once admired. But once they get bored, they move on."

    "Fine, let''s let these dogs live a little longer," Ye Tiance said coldly. He leaned in, whispering something to both Yao Manxue and Ye Ziyan.

    Elder Fan, who had been standing nearby the entire time, felt awkward as nobody bothered to include him in the conversation.

    "Sounds like a n!" Ye Ziyan eximed, a gleam in her eyes.

    Ye Tiance took a step forward and beckoned, "Zhang Jian, Wu Yi,e here!"

    Zhang Jian, the Seventh Sword Venerable, had been waiting for a while. As for Wu Yi, he was a stocky middle-aged man in a dark-red sword robe, the Chief Law Enforcement Elder of the Third Sword Peak, currently acting as the Third Sword Venerable. Also summoned was Yu Xuanzhou of the Seventh Sword Peak.

    "Zhang Jian, would you like to serve Swordking Ye?" Ye Tiance asked, his tone icy.

    "It would be an honor for the entire Seventh Sword Peak!" Zhang Jian replied, nearly groveling. Had they been alone, he might have even knelt.

    "Good. I''ll give you a chance," Ye Tiance whispered to them.

    "I assure you, we''ve got this!" Yu Xuanzhou said, puffing out his chest with confidence.

    "I heard you spoke up for Yun Xiao at the Sword Inheritance tform?" Ye Tiance asked, an odd expression on his face.

    "Yes," Yu Xuanzhou replied, sweating bullets.

    "We''ll see how you do then," Ye Tiance said coldly.

    "Don''t worry, Sword Venerable!" Yu Xuanzhou assured. Looking up, they noticed the group from the Sword Pavilion was already at the Azure Spirit Cauldron, guarding it closely.

    "Let them hold onto the Cauldron for ten days. When Guying returns, it''ll be just perfect to fill with their blood," Ye Tiance said with a sinister tone.

    The atmosphere atop Conve Mountain was colder than a winter¡¯s chill, tense enough to strangle.

    ¡°Time to distribute the rewards of the Sword Debate, Ye Tiance,¡± the Second Sword Venerable, Shangguan Yu, cooly said. She''d chosen to support the Sword Pavilion, and even with the news about Ye Guying returning, she wasn''t as fickle as those from the Seventh Sword Peak.

    ¡°Ah, is it that time already?¡± Ye Tiance, stroking his long beard, his gaze sharp as an eagle¡¯s, responded.

    Hearing this, the audience''s hearts raced. Clearly, the future for Azure Spirit would be a fight to the death. Would anyone still abide by the Eight Laws of Azure Spirit? The rewards for Sword Debate were undeniablyvish.

    Under the watchful eyes of many, Ye Tiance stepped forward and proimed in a deep voice, ¡°The Sword Debate and Grand Conve have sessfully concluded!¡± He nced towards the Azure Spirit Cauldron, saying casually, ¡°The home of the Azure Spirit Cauldron is no mystery. Congrattions to the Sword Pavilion!¡±

    Everyone breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this. Following that, as the head of the Eight Swords Assembly, Ye Tiance began to distribute rewards to the top ten participants. Apart from those who met their demise today, the rest were ranked by their Sword Points from that day.

    One by one, Ye Tiance handed out the rewards. Then, the moment of utmost tension arrived. First ce in the Sword Debate! A thousand-year-old demon bone, twenty Dragon Spring Pills! Of course, the most eye-catching prize was the demon bone, which was the skull of a Demon Emperor!

    These rewards were prepared in a separate Pouch of Holding, now in Ye Tiance''s hands. Holding the pouch, he smiled, ncing from it to Yun Xiao, his expression teasing. ¡°Who, do you reckon, won first ce this year in the debate?¡± He surveyed the crowd.

    The crowd remained silent, heads bowed. ¡°Is it not our very own Top Sword of the Sword Pavilion, Yun Xiao? Any objections?¡± Cai Maomao blurted out. His voice, like thunder on a clear day, startled many.

    Seeing this, the crowd could only shake their heads. Challenging without skills was a fool''s errand, wasn¡¯t it?

    ¡°Oh, well if it isn''t the little brother of one of the demon-ying heroes?¡± Ye Tiance asked Cai Maomao, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

    ¡°You!¡± Recalling an incident from three years ago, the members of Sword Pavilion were naturally livid.

    ¡°Any other objections?¡± Ye Tiance asked, sweeping his gaze around.

    ¡°Well... I have something to say. Not sure if it''s appropriate, though.¡± Suddenly, a deep voice rang out. The crowd turned to see Yu Xuanzhou from the Seventh Sword Peak speaking.

    ¡°Elder Yu, speak your mind,¡± Ye Tiance urged.

    ¡°Firstly, let me rify. A few days ago, when Yun Xiao ranked first on the Heavenly Path, I admired him. I even spoke highly of him. A few elders can vouch for that. So, I don¡¯t mind offending anyone. I just want to state a fair point,¡± Yu Xuanzhou said, pursing his lips.

    ¡°Go on,¡± Ye Tiance urged.

    ¡°If I speak out of turn, please forgive me. I am merely stating my perspective on fairness regarding this matter,¡± Yu Xuanzhou began, taking a moment to scan the crowd.

    ¡°Enough with the dilly-dallying!¡± Ye Tiance snapped.

    ¡°Alright then. What I wanted to say is¡ª¡± Yu Xuanzhou looked at Yun Xiao, sighed, and then dered, ¡°During the Sword Debate, Yun Xiao in fact broke the rules!¡±

    "How did he break the rules?" Ye Tiance asked.

    "Well, first he defeated Wu Jianyang, and that''s fine. Then he took down Jiang Yue, no problems there. But the issue arose when he killed two people afterward. One of them had barely uttered a word from the sidelines before he was in by Yun Xiao! By our rules, that''s a sneak attack. It''s a breach of the fairness that the dueling tform represents! Meaning, from that moment on, Yun Xiao should have been expelled from the Eight Swords Conve and had his sword points taken away!" Yu Xuanzhou dered, teeth gritted.

    Murmurs of surprise rippled through the crowd.

    Yu Xuanzhou quickly added, bowing slightly, "I''m just trying to speak a word of justice for the deceased. If I''ve unintentionally offended anyone, I hope for your understanding."

    Ye Tiance chuckled, rolling his eyes. "So, everyone got that? Some are ruthless and unjust, hiding behind their talent to murder the innocent! Even Elder Yu, who once aided him, can''t stand to watch such behavior. The saying goes... those on the righteous path have many allies, while those astray find few. So, I ask all of you: who dares to stand up now and im with a hand on their heart that Yun Xiao truly deserves to be the champion of the Sword Debate?"

    With a fierce gleam in his eyes, Ye Tiance''s voice thundered across the gathering, challenging everyone present.

    "You all shouldn''t be afraid! The Azure Spirit Sword Sect stands for righteousness. We won''t let this so-called prodigy intimidate us into saying something against our better judgment," Yao Manxue coldly interjected.

    Who would dare speak up after such a statement? Yet, the figure that truly held the awe of the Conve Mountain was Ye Guying.

    "In that case," Ye Tiance dered, cutting off any further debate, "the title of this year''s Sword Debate Champion will remain vacant. The prize returns to the sect."

    "My thousand-year-old demon bone, just like that, gone?" Yun Xiao eximed, eyes wide in disbelief. He''d even secretly been happy after hearing about Ye Guying''s advancement. But then he''d end up getting stonewalled at thest second out during the testing of his Sword Soul! And now the prize he was so close to obtaining slipped right through his fingers! This felt far worse than any assassination attempt by Wu Wu and his family.

    Yun Xiao felt like he would explode from irritation right on the spot! So furious he wanted to kill someone. He nced towards Yu Xuanzhou then towards Ye Tiance. "That slimy back-stabbing, son of a bitch!" he muttered under his breath.

    "Did you just cuss?" Zhao Xuanran frowned.

    "I''m so pissed off!" Yun Xiao shot her a re. What he didn''t expect, was for something even more infuriating to happen.

    Then, Yu Xuanzhou stood up again! He faced the crowd, and earnestly said, "Ladies and gentlemen, Azure Spirit is clearly divided at this moment. For the record, I do not side with anyone. I just wish to speak some in sense!"

    "Then cut the crap and spit it out already!" Zhang Jian said.

    "That''s like this! I heard that the First Sword Venerable''s disciples, Ye Ziyan, Hua Luo, Wei Ziyi, and Wang Xun, made great achievements in ying demons this time in the Northern Wastnds! Despite Azure Spirit''s current decline, their performance was truly inspiring! So, I suggest giving them substantial rewards to encourage future generations." Yu Xuanzhou said sincerely.

    "So, how should we reward them?" Ye Tiance raised an eyebrow and smiled.

    "Since the first reward of the Sword Debate is still vacant, why not give it to them?" Yu Xuanzhou suggested with a knowing smile.

    "Fine then! If Elder Yu, a paragon of justice, insists, how could I let these loyal heroes be disappointed?" Ye Tiance tossed the Pouch of Holding in his hand to Ye Ziyan.

    "Announce the decree! For the merit of ying demons, Ye Ziyan is rewarded with a thousand-year-old demon bone! Hua Luo, Wei Ziyi, and Wang Xun, receive ten Dragon Spring Pills each!" Ye Tiance''s gaze was solemn as he dered loudly. The reward for the Sword Debate only included twenty Dragon Spring Pills. So, it appeared the missing would be taken from the Sect''s coffers.

    As soon as this was announced, it stirred up an uproar! Many people watched them, furious yet struggling not to voice it.

    "The First Sword Venerable is truly fair! Next time your daughter kills a rabbit when she steps out, I reckon you''ll have to reward her with a Divine Sea Pill, eh?" Cai Maomao just couldn''t hold back, uttering a snide remark with a scornful chuckle.

    The moment the words were spoken, a wave of murmurs rippled through the crowd.

    Many looked on, seething with anger but too hesitant to speak.

    "How dare you!" From the First, Third, and Sixth Sword Peaks, numerous figures rose in unison, shouting in fury. But from the Sword Pavilion, there were only a handful. The Second Sword Peak, despite having some notable figures like Shangguan Yu still present, found their elders and disciples silenced in the face of Ye Guying''s overwhelming presence.

    Suddenly, the air atop Conve Mountain grew thick with eerie energy. Everyone''s gaze turned to find Ye Ziyan unveiling an ancient demonic bone. It was a skull, etched with mystic runes. As the skull was revealed, unsettling illusions and a chilling wind enveloped Conve Mountain. People recoiled in horror, taking steps back.

    "Your name''s Yun Xiao, right?" Ye Ziyan licked her red lips, saying flirtatiously, "You''re quite the looker."

    Yun Xiao fixed a cold stare at the demonic skull in her hand.

    <i>HUM!! </i>With a yfulugh, Ye Ziyan summoned a golden Sword Soul, piercing it into the skull. As the skull cracked, marrow flowed towards her Sword Soul.

    "Oh, this feels incredible!" she teased, eyebrows raised, a mocking grin aimed at Yun Xiao.

    "Feeling good, Senior Sister Ye?" Yun Xiao inquired abruptly.

    "Absolutely delightful," she chuckled.

    "I''d like to feel that too," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Oh, really?" Just as Ye Ziyan finishedughing, the demon bone shattered in her hand. All the marrow had been absorbed into her Sword Soul. Not fully transformed into sword energy, but it was hers now.

    "Sorry, I''ve had my fun," she cooed sweetly.

    "That''s alright. I''ll have mine next time!" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Next time?" Ye Ziyanughed heartily. "This thousand-year-old bone is gone. What next time are you dreaming of?" She knew Yun Xiao must be fuming inside. But with the tides turned in her favor, what could he possibly do?

    "It''s done. Disperse," Ye Ziyanmanded, swaying her hips as she left.

    "Elder Ye, it''s gettingte..." Elder Fan began.

    "Goodbye," was all Ye Tiance replied, cutting him off.

    "Fine." With that, he turned on his heels, teeth gritted, and strode away.

    "Let''s go," Zhao Xuanran said.

    "To where?" Yun Xiao looked back, inquiringly.

    "Home."

    At the very least, the Azure Spirit Cauldron had returned home.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Sword Pavilion, just outside the Grand Hall.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The Azure Spirit Cauldron sat majestically at the entrance. As it settled, a man in a blue robe inside the hall had a sh of light streak across his eyes. A tear slipped down, shimmering in its descent.

    "Today, I thank the four of you." Zhao Xuanran stood outside, expressing her gratitude to the group before her.

    The four individuals were¡ª

    The Chief Steward of the Spirit Treasure Pavilion Hall, Qian Kun.

    The Second Sword Venerable, Shangguan Yu.

    The Fourth Sword Venerable, Chen Dong.

    The Fifth Sword Venerable, Li Chenlong.

    All of them were middle-aged Sword Cultivators.

    Of them, both Chen Dong and Li Chenlong were men.

    "No need," Shangguan Yu inhaled deeply, her gaze settled on the woman in a ck gown. "Shall we go?"

    "The Sword Pavilion might be in ruins, but we won''t flee like criminals," Zhao Xuanran spoke calmly.

    "But we can''t lead our disciples to their doom..." Chen Dong sighed, lowering his head.

    "Which is why I''m grateful. Please, be on your way," Zhao Xuanran replied. In tough times, words often fell short. Facing great peril, it''s only human to seek an escape. Having helped, they''d already shown their loyalty.

    "Take care." Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, and Li Chenlong paused for a moment, then turned to leave.

    "Farewell." Just as Qian Kun was about to head off, someone tugged at the cor of his robe, yanking him back.

    "Ugh!" He choked back a retch and red at Zhao. "What''s the big idea?"

    "Hand it over," Zhao Xuanran demanded, extending her hand.

    "What are you on about?"

    "I did the math. 328,612 Spirit Stones in total. If you''re short even by one, don''t think of leaving the Sword Pavilion," she red.

    "Come on! You''ve even counted down to the single digits?!" Qian Kun grimaced.

    "Hand. It. Over," Sister Zhao raised her voice.

    "All right." Qian Kun grumbled, counting begrudgingly.

    "You penny-pincher," Zhao Xuanran teased. "You''ve made a fortune, yet you put on this sour face?"

    "You earn the big bucks while I scrape up the crumbs. How can I not be envious?" Qian Kun said with a pitiful look. It took him ages to count out therge number of Spirit Stones. In the end, he handed over a dozen Pouches of Holding to Zhao Xuanran.

    "Got any wine?" she inquired.

    "Will it reduce my debt?" he replied with hopeful eyes.

    "No."

    "Robber!" He bemoaned, parting with a significant portion of his prized liquor collection.

    Before departing, he took a deep breath. "Why not bring your father and seek refuge in my Spirit Treasure Pavilion?"

    Zhao Xuanran shot him a surprised look. "You''ve grown a backbone," she remarked.

    "So?"

    "Until fate reunites us." Her voice was soft and faint.

    "Take care."

    In the end, only Zhao Xuanran and Yun Xiao remained.

    She turned around to see the young man, freshly cleaned. Sunlight beamed on his face, making him seem like a wless jade. Zhao Xuanran tucked away one of the Pouches of Holding in her gown, and the rest she ced into Yun Xiao''s hands.

    "That one contained 6,969 Spirit Stones. It''s the capital I lent you. I''m taking it back; the rest is yours."

    "Oh, wow!" Yun Xiao''s eyes lit up, collecting the dozen or so Pouches of Holding. Over 320,000! He was on cloud nine.

    "Thank you, Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao eximed. He hadn''t expected such generosity. She only reimed her original amount, leaving the rest to him.

    "Hey!" Zhao Xuanran''s brow furrowed suddenly.

    "What''s up?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I was just being polite. Shouldn''t you show a bit of humility in return?" she bit her lip in annoyance.

    "Humility?" Yun Xiao was perplexed.

    "Yes, humility!" she stressed the word.

    "I''m sorry, Senior Sister Zhao. My bad!" His face flushed with genuine remorse.

    "All is forgiven," she replied nonchntly, extending her delicate hand towards him.

    "You can trust me, Senior Sister Zhao! I''m an honorable guy," Yun Xiao dered with a solemn look, opening one of the Pouches of Holding. He counted out five Spirit Stones with a pained expression and handed them over.

    "What''s this about?" Zhao Xuanran blinked in surprise.

    Yun Xiao grinned, "Don''t be too touched. it''s what''s due."

    "Touched? What''s the meaning of giving me five Spirit Stones?" she asked, genuinely puzzled.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, "Yesterday, I borrowed 6,969 Spirit Stones from you. By the worldly interest rate of 0.015%, the daily interest on 10,000 is five. By that math, I owed you three, but I''m quite the generous fellow, so I''ve thrown in an extra two for good measure."

    Zhao Xuanran was gobsmacked. She red at him, her chest heaving in outrage. "Agh! I can''t tell if you''re a yboy or a blockhead. You insufferable brat, get lost!" In her anger, there was an adorable quality.

    "Yes ma''am!" Yun Xiao retreated, scurrying off.

    "Don''t leave the Sword Pavilion. it''s dangerous outside! I also better not catch you with other girls!" she shouted after him.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao''s voice faded as he distanced himself.

    "Damn it!" Zhao Xuanran clenched her fists, itching to give someone a good thrashing. Turning around, she found Qin Tong standing behind her, staring nkly.

    "What do you want?" she snapped.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, what''s this about Yun Xiao being a yboy and being with other girls...?"

    "???"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Over 320,000 Spirit Stones!" Yun Xiao, amidst the woods, gazed fervently at the Pouches of Holding in front of him. He took out the little ck creature from his chest and ced it directly onto the pile of Spirit Stones.

    His eyes were bloodshot. He was infuriated! His thousand-year-old demon bone had been refined just like that. The whole ordeal had turned him into a miserly hoarder!

    He was even angrier than before he had in the Third Sword Venerable. "Eat! Once you''re done, I''m going on a rampage!"

 Chapter 043 - Drinks Without Me? Thats a Paddlin (1)

    <h4>Chapter 043 - Drinks Without Me? That''s a Paddlin'' (1)</h4>

    Sword Cloud Walk! Today, it buzzed with activity. During the Eight Swords Conve, more than a hundred disciples from the First Sword Peak lost their lives, including Ye Tiance¡¯s son, Ye Tianyuan. But tonight, there was a celebratory feast in the most luxurious private room on the top floor of Sword Cloud Walk.

    The belle of this ball was none other than the first disciple of the First Sword Peak, Ye Tiance¡¯s eldest daughter¡ªYe Ziyan!

    Ye Tiance¡¯s other three disciples, Hua Luo, Wei Ziyi, and Wang Xun, were naturally present. And the honored guests? There were two¡ªWu Yi, the current acting head of the Third Sword Peak; and Yao Lie, the Chief Law Enforcer of the Sixth Sword Peak. Many from the Seventh Sword Peak also attended, with Yu Xuanzhou among them.

    ¡°Elder Yu, today¡¯s sess was in part due to you. A toast to you!¡± Ye Ziyan, a little tipsy, hoisted a foot onto her chair, disying a fiery attitude with flushed cheeks.

    Yu Xuanzhou, a stout man, discreetly ogled at Ye Ziyan¡¯s slim waist, swallowing hard. Hastily lifting his cup, he responded, ¡°To contribute to the first disciple''s glory is an honor for me. Bottoms up!¡± And with that, he chugged his drink down in one go, gulping audibly.

    Laughter erupted. ¡°Elder Yu truly is a man of fairness!¡±

    ¡°Just a bit of fun!¡± Yu Xuanzhou wiped a stray drop from his lip, chuckling sheepishly.

    ¡°You should¡¯ve seen it¡ªthe color Yun Xiao turned!¡± Wu Yi scoffed. Previously a Chief Law Enforcement Elder himself, Wu Yi''s status was on par with Ye Tianzhao and Yao Lie. But Ye Tianzhao? He''d met his end outside the Sword Cloud Walk justst night.

    In Azure Spirit, the position of Chief Law Enforcement Elder in a Sword Peak was second only to the Sword Venerable. They had great authority and were potential sessors to the title of Sword Venerable.

    ¡°If Wu Wu remains missing, Wu Yi will undoubtedly be the official Third Sword Venerable.¡±

    ¡°Let them fume. They¡¯re now like turtles trapped in a jar. They won¡¯t dare leave the Sword Pavilion. All that''s left is for Swordking Ye''s return. He''ll subdue the beauty, and sh the snakes!¡± Yao Lie, eyes ame, remarked coldly. Being the Chief Law Enforcement Elder of the Sixth Sword Peak, he was the little brother of Yao Manxue and elder brother to Yao Qingqian. His words hung in the air, and sardonic smiles spread across the faces of those present.

    Despite the Sword Pavilion reaping the most rewards from the Eight Swords Conve, why was the Pavilion quiet tonight while they celebrated and strengthened their alliances here? All because of the might of Swordking Ye, whose prowess echoed across the Sea of Swords!

    ¡°With him here, Azure Spirit will be unified in no more than ten days! To that, cheers!¡± Yao Lie eximed.

    ¡°Cheers!¡±

    Ye Ziyan, ever the energetic one, leaped onto the table,ughing heartily with her drink in hand. ¡°Those with us will prosper, those against us will perish!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    The room filled with uproariousughter, the atmosphere reaching its zenith. But just as their sses were about to clink¡ªBANG! The door to the room was kicked open.

    ¡°Who''s this blind buffoon?¡± Wang Xun, Ye Tiance¡¯s fourth disciple, turned sharply, his piercing eyes scanning the entrance. Standing there was a young man in white, his gaze dripping with blood.

    Behind the young man, hundreds had already gathered. They didn''t daree too close, instead pointing and whispering from a distance, gossiping among themselves.

    "Yun Xiao??" Those at the banquet thought their eyes deceived them. Ye Ziyan even rubbed her eyes in disbelief. But, upon a second look, it was indeed Yun Xiao! Dressed in pristine white, wielding an azure sword. His ethereal beauty and unparalleled grace made him unmistakably unique.

    "How do you have the nerve?" Wang Xun managed a disbelieving chuckle after his initial shock.

    Everyone thought Yun Xiao would just wait for his end in the Sword Pavilion. Why would he dare step out? And not just step out, bute alone to the liveliest ce in Azure Spirit Sword Sect: the Sword Cloud Walk?

    "Enjoying your drinks, are we?" Yun Xiao''s voice broke the tension as he confidently approached them. The sharp de in his hand scraped the wooden floor, leaving behind a trail of decay, emanating a curl of green smoke.

    "You all just keep drinking; I got this!" Wang Xun, in a haze of alcohol and brashness, stood up. With a fierce glint in his eyes, he unleashed his Late Divine Sea Realm power, a vast ocean of force that enveloped the entire hall, bearing down on Yun Xiao. Being Ye Tiance''s fourth disciple, Wang Xun was naturally a bit stronger than Ye Tianyuan.

    Ye Tiance''s other two disciples, Hua Luo and Wei Ziyi, also stepped forward. Being of the younger generation at the table, they were seated closest to the entrance, as mere drinkingpanions.

    "Both of you, just keep drinking. I can handle him myself!" Wang Xun roared, a Sword Soul forming in the palm of his hand. With a swift move, like a fierce tiger pouncing, he lunged at Yun Xiao.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Yun Xiao, with icy detachment, quickened his pace. He became a sh of white as he dodged the attacks!

    "So fast!" Wang Xun let out a low growl, shing his sword horizontally. But in the blink of an eye, that sh of white was right in front of him. A gleam of azure shed with Wang Xun''s sword soul.

    <i>KLANG! </i>Wang Xun''s sword soul shattered. The azure sword ray sped forward like a bolt of lightning, swiping across Wang Xun''s face. <i>Crack! </i>Wang Xun froze. Half of his head was cleanly sliced off. The severed half of his head spun andnded in the center of the banquet table, spinning like a dish on disy.

    <i>THUD! </i>Wang Xun''s body crumpled to the ground.

    The young man in white, unblemished by a single drop of blood, stared around with bloodshot eyes. He scoffed, "Having a drink without inviting me?" He seemed enraged. But was it just because they didn''t invite him for a drink? Everyone knew that couldn''t be the only reason. He was angry about the thousand year old demon bone.

    Eyes darted to the macabre <i>dish</i> on the table, then back to Yun Xiao.

    "Ugh!" Many in the room, their stomachs filled with the evening''s delicacies, couldn''t hold back and vomited.

    Bending down, Yun Xiao pulled out Wang Xun''s Pouch of Holding and peeked inside. "Ah, the ten Dragon Spring Pills are still here!" He remarked, "He borrowed them and I charged him five hundred Spirit Stones as interest. Fair, right?" With that, he pocketed the pouch.

    "And as for the rest of you, it''s time to settle your debts, with interest!" His piercing gaze settled on Hua Luo and Wei Ziyi, the second and third disciples of the First Sword Venerable.

    Both in their mid-twenties, they wielded Mid Comet grade Sword Souls and had followed Ye Tiance for over a decade, gaining renown on the battlefield. Hua Luo, tall and handsome, wore an imposing demeanor, while Wei Ziyi was smaller in stature, his eyes gleaming with intelligence.

    Before they could react, Yun Xiao lunged, elerating with ferocity!

    <i>Swallow Tail sh!</i>

    Just as Wei Ziyi unsheathed his sword, a piercing sound rang out as blood sttered everywhere. The sheer force threw his body against the wall, painting it a gruesome red.

    "Yun Xiao, you...!" Hua Luo''s voice trailed, his body chilled.

    "Your turn," Yun Xiao said coldly, catching his returning Sword Soul. Without hesitation, his de moved again. The azure de, swift as a lightning crane, circled Hua Luo''s sword and stabbed straight into his mouth, emerging from the back of his head. Hua Luo''s eyes bulged, his body trembled, and then... nothing. He fell dead on the floor.

    Outside the elegant room, hundreds of Sword Cultivators trembled in fear, unable to utter a sound. Earlier that day, on Yu Xuanzhou''s suggestion, Yun Xiao''s award for being the top contender in the Sword Debate had been revoked.

    And now, mere hours into the night, he had brazenly killed three in front of a gathering of elders, collecting a hefty interest for his troubles. What kind of fiend was he? And why was he so powerful? The hundreds of Sword Cultivators outside were utterly dumbfounded.

    Ye Ziyan, Yao Lie, Wu Yi, Yu Xuanzhou, and the others watched in shock as three of the First Sword Venerable¡¯s disciples were mercilessly ughtered. Their minds were in chaos. What was happening? Of the thirteen disciples of Ye Tian Ce, only the first and thest remained in just a few days.

    "Yun Xiao!" Ye Ziyan''s eyes were zing with rage. She drew her Sword Soul and pointed it straight at him. "Do you really think that just because the Swordking mentioned you, you have ten days of immunity from death?"

    During the day, she had relished in shaming Yun Xiao, believing he was headed towards a dead end. She could have never dreamed that he would audaciouslye to the most bustling part of town andmit murder in broad daylight!

    "Isn''t that the case?" Yun Xiao quipped, picking up a jug of wine, only to find it empty. His anger intensified. "Damn, all out of wine. You guys sure can eat," he remarked sarcastically, his cold gaze sliding over the bellies of all present.

    "Fine, you have immunity from death! But some tortures are worse than death," Ye Ziyan snarled, her foot smashing the feast on the table, unleashing her Perfect Divine Sea Realm power, obliterating everything between her and Yun Xiao.

    "Oh? I''d like to see you try," Yun Xiao taunted, brandishing his sword.

    "As you wish!" Ye Ziyan''s eyes seemed to emit smoke. <i>Hum! </i>Her Sword Soul materialized, instantly morphing into a palm-sized sword. The Mid Comet grade Sword Soul was named Violet Hawk and was adorned with intricate feather patterns, shimmering in radiant hues. Seventeenyers of golden Sword Aura gleamed coldly from it, apanied by a blinding violet luster.

    Her Sword Aura was twoyers higher than Yun Xiao¡¯s! Moreover, she hadn''t fully integrated the thousand-year-old demon bone yet, its potent essence still lingering within her Sword Soul.

    Coupled with the four Divine Seas of the Perfect Divine Sea Realm, this first disciple of the First Sword Peak might even surpass thebat power of typicalw enforcement elders. She was almost on par with Zhao Xuanran. Today, Ye Ziyan was the protagonist.

    "A genius? Do you have the lifespan to mature?" she sneered, leaping forward, channeling the power of the Perfect Divine Sea Realm. Holding the Violet Hawk Sword Soul, she soared like a hawk, charging towards Yun Xiao.

    <i>Comet grade Sword Technique, Golden Spiral!</i>

    The swirling shadows of the Violet Hawk Sword Soul danced with seventeen fierceyers of sword rays. The sword''s silhouette spun fervently, casting an illusion of multiple violet blossoms descending upon Yun Xiao''s head. A single strike meant certain death.

    "She''s formidable!" Outsiders watching gasped in unison. Even Wu Yi, Yao Lie, and Yu Xuanzhou, upon witnessing this, found their anxieties eased.

    Someone had already informed Ye Tiance!

    "That young fool dared to step out of the Sword Pavilion today? Well, he won''t be returning!" Yu Xuanzhou remarked with a sardonicugh.

    No sooner had his words faded than Yun Xiao''s piercing gaze met Ye Ziyan.

    "You think you''re strong?" Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed. He made his move. When still, he was a serene mountain. When in motion, he unleashed the force of an earth-shattering quake!

    <i>KLANG! </i>His azure Sword Soul trembled, sweeping through the sky. Amidst its friction, multiple sword rays collided, erupting into an array of dense azure thunderbolts. Another tremor rocked the sword.

    A whirlwind wrapped around its de. From his Dantian, the power of the Primordial Void Technique meshed with the lifeforce, colliding with the deathly aura of the Sword Soul. Instead of countering each other, life and death fused, unleashing a terrifying destructive power.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>He moved like a storm of azure lightning, sword piercing through.

    <i>Azure Lightning Crane¡ªSecond form, Dragonfly!</i>

    Sure enough, while the first form mirrored the mayfly, the second emted the dragonfly.

    As the sword thrust forward, it skimmed the surface, causing ripples. It struck with a mesmerizing allure, capturing the essence of all creation.

    Yun Xiao''s strike was blistering in its speed, and fierce to the extreme. Embodying a fearless heart, his sword knew no regret. It only sought to annihte, charging forward unyieldingly. His lightning-infused de zipped forward, creating a deafening roar. The onlookers instinctively covered their ears.

    Ye Ziyan''s expression shifted dramatically. Her violet de descended with grand strokes.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The azure storm of electricity entwined with her Sword Soul like a venomous serpent, rapidly slithering toward her body.

    "What?!" Ye Ziyan cried out in horror.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao appeared right before her. <i>CRACK! </i>His Heaven Burial Sword Soul pierced through her armor, striking her chest thrice. Each strike prated, but none were fatal.

    "You truly are formidable, aren''t you? I struck thrice, yet you couldn''t even block a single blow?" Yun Xiao mocked.

    "Ah¡ª" Ye Ziyan''s face contorted in pain as she screamed. Blood gushed from her chest, only to be instantly absorbed by Yun Xiao''s azure Sword Soul.

    "Yun Xiao!" In her terror, she glimpsed the cold, disdainful eyes of the young man in white before her. Her heart crumbled, fear spreading like venom within her soul. She was defeated! Had Yun Xiao not shown mercy, she would''ve been dead by now!

    In that heart-stopping moment, her brain, heart, and hands were all trembling. Tears streamed down from her eyes, and her legs quaked so violently that she was on the brink of wetting herself. Well that, and she had drunk a bit too much!

    "Darn...it! You''ve gone and spilled all the milk!" Red Moon sobbed into Yun Xiao''s arms, "You''ve ruined everything!"

 Chapter 044 - Drinks Without Me? Thats a Paddlin (2)

    <h4>Chapter 044 - Drinks Without Me? That''s a Paddlin'' (2)</h4>

    "Yun Xiao, if you darey a finger on Ye Ziyan, you''ll live a life where even death will be a luxury!" Yao Lie roared.

    "Release her!" Wu Yi thundered.

    Both were Chief Law Enforcement Elders at the Perfect Divine Sea Realm, each boasting the power of four Divine Seas. Theirbined might was even more formidable than Ye Ziyan''s.

    Additionally, there were several other elders, all at the Late Divine Sea Realm. The only one who didn¡¯t dare to act, hiding behind the group, was Yu Xuanzhou. His legs were quaking.

    With Wu Yi and Yao Lie leading the charge, seven or eight elders encircled Yun Xiao with their swords drawn.

    "He''s in trouble!"

    "He should run..."

    Many of the Sword Cultivators outside grew anxious for Yun Xiao.

    "A life worse than death?" Yun Xiao chuckled even colder. In the Grand Conve, he had single-handedly defeated a hundred and twenty adversaries. Did they really think he''d be intimidated by this?

    "Release Ye Ziyan!" Amidst his anger, Yao Lie summoned his Sword Soul, a radiant violet de emitting sixteenyers of Sword Aura..

    On the other side, Wu Yi, being the second most powerful of the Third Sword Peak, had an even stronger Sword Aura¡ªseventeen to be precise. He brandished his fiery Sword Soul with an astonishing vigor.

    "Release her?" Yun Xiao stepped on Ye Ziyan''s face, pulling his azure Sword Soul out of her, then swiftly shed, breaking both her leg bones.

    "Aaahh!" Ye Ziyan screamed once more, curling up, her face ghostly pale.

    "Quiet down!" Yun Xiao motioned, and in an instant, Ye Ziyan''s tongue was pinned to her upper jaw by a ray of sword light, her mouth dripping with blood.

    "Mmm mmm..." Ye Ziyan waspletely devastated, her eyes trembling with horror, her only recourse being to cry in pain. Just that morning, she was acting haughty in front of Yun Xiao.

    "Yun Xiao!!!"

    "You brat, release her!"

    The assembly of elders stared, gritting their teeth. They had nned to threaten him a bit longer! But to their shock, Yun Xiao had released Ye Ziyan! He actually charged at the elders! <i>Whoosh! </i>A white figure lunged before them.

    "You bunch of dogs, having a drink without me?" Yun Xiao''s voice thundered with anger.

    Yao Lie and Wu Yi exchanged nces, moving in from both sides, while the other elders summoned their flying swords to encircle and press down on Yun Xiao. For a moment, danger seemed everywhere for him.

    "Trying to kill me, eh?" Yun Xiao sneered.

    <i>Sovereign Sword, Leisurely Wander!</i>

    Gracefully, he spun around, stepping onto his azure sword and shot out of the Sword Cloud Walk! <i>BOOM! </i>The rooftop of Sword Cloud Walk exploded!

    "Think you can escape? Dream on!" Wu Yi and Yao Lie roared, chasing after him with their Sovereign Swords.. <i>CRASH! </i>Tiles from the Sword Cloud Walk''s roof rained down.

    "Who said I''m running?" A nightmarish voice suddenly echoed around them.

    Yao Lie and Wu Yi''s eyes widened. Amid the falling debris and dust, a sudden burst of azure light descended upon them! A sudden counterattack on horseback? No, this was on a sword! Had all the elders underestimated his thirst for battle?

    Run? Yun Xiao, who had traveled from far just to vent, couldn''t possibly think of fleeing! Not only did he not flee, he swung his sword amidst the rain of debris, attacking more fiercely than anyone!

    <i>Azure Lightning Crane¡ªThird move, Azure Bird!</i>

    From a mayfly, to a dragonfly, to a genuine bird! His sword thrust downwards, its radiant glow weaving into a soaring bird, immediately overshadowing the heads of the two Chief Law Enforcement Elders, Yao Lie and Wu Yi! That move was absolutely dazzling! Storms raged and azure lightning streaked across!

    "Watch out!" Yao Lie and Wu Yi were shocked to their core, hastily transforming their Sovereign Swords into Palm Swords.. But they weren''t as fast as Yun Xiao!

    Yun Xiao''s mastery of all three Sword Soul forms was an unparalleled show of dominance, unmatched in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Such a disy was the epitome of a supreme swordsman''s talent.

    All had underestimated him. As they prepared to ride their swords to chase him down, who would''ve expected Yun Xiao to swiftly retract his Sovereign Sword and counter-attack? Like an azure bird diving down with ws outreached, he was ready to ughter!

    A flurry of sword rays pierced straight through the two Chief Law Enforcement Elders, splitting them clean in two.

    "No!" Their heads split open in a gruesome spray as cries of horror filled the air!

    <i>BANG! </i>Their lifeless bodies crumbled, crashing into a cloud of dust and debris. They hit the ground, blood sttering everywhere.

    Yun Xiao descended, his foot resting atop one of the corpses. "Is this all your Chief Law Enforcement Elders can do?" he said, not able to keep the note of disappointment out of his voice.

    The entire field was in an uproar! Everyone''s eyes bulged, their hearts trembling!

    "Yun Xiao, he''s even able to kill the Chief Law Enforcement Elders?"

    "Not even half a day has passed, how has he be so terrifyingly strong?!"

    Shaking, the crowd stared at the white-robedd, who like the very reaper, descended upon them in his wind-whipped robes. He hadn''t stopped his onught!

    <i>Swallow Tail sh!</i>

    The Flying Sword shot forward!

    "Lord Yun Xiao, please spare us!"

    "We bear you no grudge!"

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Those remaining Elders who kneeled, hoping to plead for mercy, barely opened their mouths before the azure Flying Sword pierced through them! A mighty sh and a burst of blood sprayed into the air! Already it was toote for any reprisal as they tried to stagger to their feet.

    The Swallow Tail sh passed through flesh and bone, yet the Sword Soul did not stain a drop. Everyst bit had been absorbed! Those Elders who had been proudly dictating earlier all met their end.

    "Those who dare drink in the Azure Spirit without inviting me deserve only death, understand?" Yun Xiao roared, clenching the Sword Soul that had returned to him, standing against a row of corpses.

    Before the kneeling dead, he was met with silence. Dead. All dead. How could they understand when they were dead? More urately, they''d died kneeling! A group of elders brought to their knees and killed by a disciple.

    Watching this unthinkable act, hundreds of Sword Cultivators outside nearly popped their eyes out of their sockets!

    "Yun Xiao, killed all of the First Sword Venerable''s personal disciples!"

    "He killed all these elders too!"

    Their hearts throbbed wildly. What sort of monster was he? Just days ago, he''d arrived at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect andpleted his journey on the Heavenly Path. What a tumultuous journey he had over a few days!

    "No! Ye Ziyan is not dead yet."

    "Furthermore, isn''t there still one elder left?"

    Yu Xuanzhou, shivering with cold sweat and stealthily preparing to make a hasty escape, suddenly felt the temperature drop further.

    "Elder Yu." Yun Xiao called out.

    At hearing his name from behind, he trembled, almost scared out of his skin.

    "Yun Xiao!" Yu Xuanzhou turned around, kneeling with a plop, tears streaming down his face as he wailed, "Please, in consideration of my good words for you at the Sword Inheritance tform, spare my worthless life!"

    Yun Xiao stood among the corpses, a smile on his face as he watched him.

    The silence was terrifying, making Yu Xuanzhou panic even more!

    <i>BAM BAM BAM! </i>He kowtowed, mming his forehead into the floor. "I''m a pig! I''m a dog! I am blind to have not recognized your greatness! Compared to you, Ye Guying is utter trash! If you spare my life today, I will serve you faithfully in the future, is it a deal?" Saying this, he held his hands together, face full of tears as he pleaded to Yun Xiao.

    "Stand up." Yun Xiao finally spoke, walking towards him.

    "Yes, yes, yes..." Yu Xuanzhou was secretly relieved, believing he''d escaped certain death. However, in the next second... A three-foot azure de suddenly cleaved down on his head.

    Yu Xuanzhou stood up, frozen in ce. Then, he was cut in two! His body flew out in two different directions! Only his pitiful soul remained, howling in front of Yun Xiao.

    "Elder Yu, why not say some fair words again?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    His soul dissipated, only able to weep, unable to voice any justice ever again!

    "You enjoyed jumping from one side to another, so I split you in two. Now, you don''t need to struggle. Each half of your body can stand on one side!"

    Upon hearing these words, Yu Xuanzhou''s residual soul wept to death!

    Having spoken, Yun Xiao walked straight through the bisected body of Yu Xuanzhou. His path led him to Ye Ziyan, her face deathly pale, convulsing violently.

    "Yun... Yun Xiao... We''re in the Sword Cloud Walk, a public ce, not a dueling ground nor an arena! Killing so many people here means you¡¯ll face a trial from the entire sect, even Zhao Jianxing can¡¯t save you!" Ye Ziyan''s voice shook as she crab-walked backward, leaving behind a trail of blood.

    "Senior Sister Ye." Ignoring her plea entirely, Yun Xiao stood high above her, his cold smirk taking in her despair. He said, "I wonder, how did it feel to leech off my demon bone during the day?"

    "No! No! I... I was wrong..." Ye Ziyan scrambled backward in panic, her eyes wide with terror, legs iling aimlessly.

    "A thousand-year-old demon bone! You must have enjoyed yourself. I find myself envious," Yun Xiao reached out, grabbing her leg, giving a wide smirk, "But now, it''s my turn!"

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Every single Sword Cultivator in the Sword Cloud Walk watched in horror as Yun Xiao forcefully dragged Ye Ziyan into the inner chambers. Her shrill, terrified screams echoed across the halls, her desperate struggle struck every onlooker to the core.

    "What... What is he going to do..."

 Chapter 045 - A Disciples Lack of Virtue is the Fault of the Teacher!

    <h4>Chapter 045 - A Disciple''s Lack of Virtue is the Fault of the Teacher!</h4>

    With a m, Yun Xiao closed the door and dropped the blood-drenched Ye Ziyan onto the floor. Dressed in violet armor, her figure was curvaceous and seductive, like a snake in its tantalizing allure. Even her blood-soaked state could not dampen her charm. ¡°What are you going to do?¡± she cried in agony, scrabbling backwards on her hands and heels in fear.

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao drew his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, transforming it into a three-foot-long azure de in his hands. He stepped towards her with a predatory look, his eyes filled with amusement. ¡°Didn''t I already tell you? It''s for the thrill,¡± his lips curled up in a smug smile.

    ¡°Fine, I give in...¡± Ye Ziyan said bitterly, as she started to shed her armor. Something bounced out distractingly as she did so. With her eyes shut tight, her voice trembled, ¡°Come on then!¡±

    ¡°Ye Ziyan, you''re rather optimistic,¡± Yun Xiao replied with a cold smirk.

    ¡°What?¡± Ye Ziyan''s eyes flew open in confusion. Hadn''t he said it was for the thrill?

    ¡°You''re not a bad looking woman, but I''m a literal god among men. I''m way above your league. Don''t think I''ll take pity on you just because you''re on death''s door¡± he said with a mocking smile.

    ¡°You¡ª!¡± Anger shed in Ye Ziyan''s eyes, but she was at a loss for aeback. If Yun Xiao did decide to take advantage of her, it would be a win for her. ¡°And what if... The thousand-year-old demon bone has already been absorbed by my Sword Soul!¡± she said, a trace of fear creeping into her voice.

    ¡°Didn''t you say something just now? Something about some tortures being worse than death? It so happens I have something like that in mind,¡± Yun Xiao towered over her, his eyes shing ominously.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, please spare me...¡± Ye Ziyan sobbed as she continued to fling off her armor, ¡°I can serve you, be your ve...¡±

    ¡°Not interested,¡± he dismissed the idea. Swift as a falcon, his de moved, severing the tendons in her arms and legs in session, leaving her utterly paralyzed.

    "Ah¡ª" Ye Ziyan screamed in torment.

    Every Sword Cultivator outside heard it clearly.

    <i>Stab! </i>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul plunged into Ye Ziyan¡¯s back, piercing straight into her spine.

    "Ah! Ah! Ah¡ª!" She let out shattering screams of agony as her eyes rolled back, her whole body convulsing violently.

    "Do you get it yet? This... this is what I call thrill!¡± Yun Xiao said leisurely by her side.

    ¡°Sword Soul! Sword Soul...¡± Ye Ziyan¡¯s voice tore through the air, her face contorted, her eyes threatened to split apart.

    Yun Xiao was extracting her Sword Soul, prying it from her Sword Bone. She was still alive! This was like marrow being drawn from bone. The piercing screams from their chamber drifted out to the Sword Cultivators outside, leaving their faces stark white.

    Just how agonizing, how painful it must be for her to wail like this?

    ¡°You refined my demon bone right in front of me and embarrassed me publicly. Didn''t you know I¡¯m petty?¡± Yun Xiao mocked. Even Blue Star had said it. Yun Xiao, a mere mortal, was consumed by greed, wrath, and foolishness. Greed represented desire, wrath symbolized anger, and foolishness denoted an obsession! He certainly was not the Creator Immortal!

    ¡°Your Sword Soul... it can devour another Sword Soul...¡± Ye Ziyan''s face was etched with despair. How could she escape death when she had inadvertently stumbled upon such a terrifying secret?

    ¡°Yes, indeed. I¡¯ve absorbed fifteen Sword Souls so far, all of them from killing Yao Qingqian and the Third Sword Venerable''s entire family!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s grin was full of malicious glee.

    ¡°You!¡± The revtion hit Ye Ziyan like a sledgehammer, ¡°Just you wait, when Swordking Ye returns, he will never let you reincarnate!¡±

    ¡°Him?¡± Yun Xiao''s eyebrows shot up in amusement, sneering, ¡°Isn''t he supposed to be in the Forbidden Tower for ten days? By the time he returns, the First Sword Peak will be filled with graves!¡±

    Shock painted itself across Ye Ziyan¡¯s face.

    Ten days! Yun Xiao had toppled the Azure Spirit Sword Sect in a matter of days. What could he aplish in ten?

    Ye Guying was still expecting to share a toast of Daughter''s Red with Senior Sister Zhao? When he returned, Yun Xiao would make him vomit blood on the spot!

    ¡°No! You lot, who colluded with demons, ughtered the loyal and innocent, and despisedmon people, do not deserve a burial. When he returns, I¡¯ll greet him with a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood on the First Sword Peak!¡± Having finished his speech, Yun Xiao yanked the Heaven Burial Sword Soul out of her Sword Bone with a sharp jingle.

    Ye Ziyan''s Sword Soul, along with the remaining marrow from the demon bone, was all absorbed into Heaven Burial!

    ¡°Uh...¡± The light faded from Ye Ziyan¡¯s eyes as she slipped closer to death.

    With a swift swing, Yun Xiao''s sword ran her through. With a hollow thud, Ye Ziyan¡¯s eyes widened, copsing to the ground with a gaze that hadn¡¯t managed to close in death.

    "From this moment on, I¡¯ll take my time ying with your First Sword Peak!¡± Yun Xiao stood up, his face a mask of ruthless determination. He retracted his Sword Soul. He burst through the doors. Every single one of the hundreds of Sword Cultivators outside stepped back in shock, their faces pale with fear.

    ¡°Sorry for the interruption,¡± Yun Xiao apologized with a bow, his lips curled into a chilling smile.

    ¡°No! It''s no problem...¡± The crowd nodded in agreement, feigning smiles.

    ¡°In that case, please continue. I will take my leave.¡± With that said, he leaped onto his Sovereign Sword and shot up into the sky, bursting through the roof of the Sword Cloud Walk and disappearing into the ck of night.

    After he left, the crowd stood rooted in shock. Their eyes shifted to look at the room. Therey Ye Ziyan, sprawled on the floor dead! As their gaze drifted downwards, their faces paled in fright.

    ¡°Uh!¡± Everyone froze. Seeing the brutal aftermath and recalling Ye Ziyan¡¯s heart-wrenching screams, they all nced at each other. Finally, someone came to a conclusion! ¡°Junior Brother Yun is quick and fierce."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    It didn¡¯t take long for the news about what had happened at the Sword Cloud Walk to spread like wildfire among the Azure Spirit Mountains. Following the Eight Swords Conve, the Sect Master''s disciple, Yun Xiao, had publicly murdered several people¡ªmultiple victims!

    And the ones who had fallen were not just any people. They included elders from the First, Third, Sixth, and Seventh Sword Peaks; the Chief Law Enforcers Wu Yi and Yao Lie¡ªwith Wu Yi having briefly served as the stand-in Sword Venerable at one point; and Ye Ziyan, the first disciple of the First Sword Peak! All of them were dead!

    "He finally dragged Ye Ziyan into a private chamber... and sullied her!¡±

    The Sword Cloud Walk was the liveliest ce in the Azure Spirit. Word about the incident sparked a sensation and secret uproar among the people. Momentster, the three Sword Venerables¡ªYe Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian¡ªgathered at the Sword Cloud Walk.

    ¡°Venerable, our condolences!¡± A group of elders and students from the First Sword Peak greeted their arrival with resentment and sorrow.

    ¡°Move aside!¡± Ye Tiance''s face contorted with anguish. He pushed through the crowd and peered into the room. Inside, he saw a white cloth that concealed a body. With a trembling hand, He barely lifted a corner of the cloth to reveal the sight underneath. His daughter, dead, her eyes wide open with her clothes in disarray...

    <i>THUMP! </i>An overwhelming rush of loss surged up within Ye Tiance. He dropped the cloth and stumbled back into Yao Manxue.

    ¡°So ruthless! Unbelievable!¡± Yao Manxue muttered, almost biting through her lip. She cast a nervous look at Ye Tiance. She was stunned too. Ye Tiance, had thirteen personal disciples¡ªamong them, one son and one daughter. Now, it seemed that Wang Feng was probably dead as well, killed by Yun Xiao.

    ¡°So, it seems all of his lifetime''s work is left with Jiang Yue...¡± The worrisome fact was, Jiang Yue was not a peerlessly talented Immortal anymore. She was merely a Low Comet grade! Just an average genius. This was tantamount to annihting Ye Tiance''s legacy!

    Ye Tiance¡¯s heavy panting reverberated in the room, his zing eyes shing with wrath, his face turning an unsettling shade of purple.

    ¡°Old Yu!¡± The Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, had made a round inside the room, and finally found the corpse of Yu Xuanzhou.

    A chill ran up his spine and rushed to the crown of his head! The scene in front of them infuriated all three Sword Venerables so much that they saw red! There wasn''t a moment to lose.

    ¡°Get someone! Inform Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, and Li Chenlong toe to Sword Cloud Walk immediately. We''ll hold a Council of Sword Venerables!¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s roar shook the entirety of Sword Cloud Walk.

    Upon hearing thismand, everyone knew what was toe. There was no need to wait for Ye Guying to return after ten days! The grudge between the Sword Pavilion and the First Sword Peak, a grudge three years in the making, might possibly be avenged tonight!

    Council of Sword Venerables! With the Sect Master unconscious, the Council of Sword Venerables now held all authority in deciding matters within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    It wasn''t long before representatives from the seven Sword Peaks gathered at the Sword Cloud Walk. The atmosphere was intense and grim. Apart from the Third Sword Peak, Sword Venerables were present from the other six Peaks. Given that all of the top-notch individuals from the Third Sword Peak had been killed, the Achievements Elder Liu Xuan was temporarily holding power.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At a round table within the Sword Cloud Walk, Liu Xuan and the six Sword Venerables were seated at the seven positions around the table, each one backed by more than fifty elders. The First Sword Venerable, Ye Tiance, naturally took the leader¡¯s seat! The grand hall in which they gathered was adjacent to the bloody site of Yun Xiao¡¯s recent rampage. All attending the meeting had passed through the crime scene and seen for themselves the grisly deaths of Wu Yi, Yao Lie, Ye Ziyan, and others.

    ¡°Since the formation of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, never has such a heinous atrocity urred!¡± Ye Tiance mmed his hand on the table, his thunderous voice making the entire Sword Cloud Walk tremble. His words were intense, and his face held a deep frown.

    After his deration, his eyes raked over the room. Yao Manxue, who had lost her younger brother Yao Lie, was pale with outrage, her eyebrows knitted together and her beautiful eyes shed with a killing intent. Zhang Jian and Liu Xuan were grinding their teeth! The Fourth Sword Venerable Chen Dong and the Fifth Sword Venerable Li Chenlong sitting stoically with crossed arms. The Second Sword Venerable, Shangguan Yu, maintained an expressionless face!

    ¡°Yesterday! Zhao Xuanran murdered the Chief Law Enforcement Elder of the First Sword Peak for no logical reason. Tonight, Yun Xiao was even crueler, ruthlessly massacring people and even stooping to animalistic behavior, desecrating my daughter in public! These two disciples of the Sect Master have bewless, openly challenging the rules of the Azure Spirit Sect!¡± Every word Ye Tiance spat out wasced with hatred.

    He originally thought there was no need to risk his safety. Ten dayster, Ye Guying would return to settle matters with the Sword Pavilion. But on this very night, Yun Xiao had already massacred those that had angered him the day earlier. This was truly seeking revenge without dy! When it came to this, if Ye Tiance still didn''t make a move, he might as well quit the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    ¡°While duels and trials bybat have always been fixtures of our tradition, and deaths are usually excused. Still, these two disciples of the Sect Master, using their elevated status, have murdered openly at the Sword Cloud Walk twice. If this behavior is not severely punished, it will undoubtedly dishearten all Sword Cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sect!

    "If thews of the Azure Spirit Sect are merely an empty gesture, then how can the Sword Cultivators alliance preserve its trust among the people? If these two do not die, the Azure Spirit Sect will be no more!" Yao Manxue dered, her eyes filled with bloodlust.

    "They must be killed to quell the anger of the Azure Spirit Sect!¡± Zhang Jian mmed the table, affirming.

    "If the treacherous are not exterminated, how can there be justice?¡± Liu Xuan shook his head in disappointment.

    The many outside Sword Cultivators who heard this exchanged nces, murmuring quietly, ¡°This is your business, wemon folks are not angrier...¡±

    "Shangguan Yu!" Ye Tiance suddenly snapped, furrowing his brow at the woman across from him and gritting out each word. "This severe incident is shaking at the hundreds of years of foundation of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. What do you think?"

    Shangguan Yu remained silent. What could she say? Should she openly say that it was Ye Tiance who, three years ago, conspired with the demons, caused the death of the seven prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, and forced the Sect Master to break his Sword Soul, ruining the Azure Spirit Sect? im that he was now ying the victim and biting back? Without solid evidence, if these words were spoken, it would only provide Ye Tiance with a reason to kill her first.

    "Chen Dong! Li Chenlong, what about you two?" Ye Tiance nced coldly at the other two middle-aged swordsmen.

    ¡°As former disciples of the Sword Pavilion and younger brothers of Zhao Jianxing, it¡¯s natural for you two to speak for the murderous demon, isn''t it? Haha. However, don¡¯t you forget, you now represent the Fourth and Fifth Sword Peaks, respectively. Would the elders and disciples under you like to see you sheltering criminals?¡± Yao Manxueughed sarcastically.

    "Ye Tiance!" Shangguan Yu suddenly spoke, "Go ahead and state your proposal." ording to the rules of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, the statuses of the seven Sword Venerables were equal, so Shangguan Yu said proposal instead of decision.

    "Yun Xiao must be executed!" Ye Tiance dered coldly.

    ¡°Swordking Ye wants to deal with him personally,¡± Shangguan Yu retorted.

    ¡°Then we¡¯ll just capture him first, chop off his hands and feet, and toss him into the Sword Prison to prevent him from killing again!" Frankly speaking, Ye Tiance was really a bit afraid. His disciples had all been wiped out!

    "What about Zhao Xuanran? I heard that Ye Guying is still fond of her." Shangguan Yu spoke casually.

    ¡°...Then we¡¯ll just detain her first, to prevent her from running away,¡± Ye Tiance grudgingly spat out.

    "So, you can''t kill either of these two right now. So what''s your aim in convening this Council of Sword Venerables and causing this majormotion?" Shangguan Yu red coldly at him.

    On hearing this, Ye Tiance''s face hardened. The entire Sword Cloud Walk fell into immediate silence and deathly stillness. Everyone was looking at him!

    "Hehe..." Suddenly, he let out a coldugh. "Our Sect Master of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Zhao Jianxing, is universally recognized as the embodiment of Azure Spirit''s ethos, a saintly swordsman of his generation, right?" Ye Tiance swept his eyes over the crowd.

    "He is known as the model of swordsmanship," Yao Manxue sarcastically threw in.

    ¡±What a joke!" Zhang Jian scoffed. "A saint who raised a daughter who murders people on the street for no reason, who trained a beast that¡¯s capable of all sorts of evil deeds?"

    "If the disciplecks virtue, it''s the tutor''s fault!" Liu Xuan stated indignantly.

    Shangguan Yu understood. With Ye Guying around, the fates of Zhao Xuanran and Yun Xiao have already been sealed.

    Ye Tiance was just trying to make use of this opportunity! His target was directed at Sect Master Zhao Jianxing! Of course, Zhao Jianxing had his Sword Soul smashed and was at the end of his road, and would eventually die. But even after his death, his reputation would still stand! Ye Tiance was trying to tarnish the Sect Master''s name.

    "With the Sect Master himself at the helm of the Azure Spirit, his own disciples cause public disgrace. Is this what is called a prestigious sect that ughter demons? Is this what is called evesting righteousness?" Ye Tiance shook his head in remorse.

    "Everyone!" Zhang Jian rose to his feet, his voice grave. "Zhao Jianxing has bred such rebellious disciples. Hecks virtue and righteousness and tarnishes the reputation of the Azure Spirit Sect. His behavior is unbing of the role of the Sect Master. I propose that from today onwards, his position as the Sect Master be abolished!"

    The room burst into noisy chatter at his words. Someone had mentioned this during the daytime, but thement was taken as a joke. However, mentioning it during the Council of Sword Venerables implied a seriousness to the proposal.

    Depose the Sect Master? Throughout Azure Spirit history, there had never been a Sect Master who was deposed! Every Sect Master in each generation had aplished great feats in battle. Zhao Jianxing was one of the standout figures among them!

    "Since he took up the position of Sect Master, he repelled the Demon Waves of the Northern Wastnds seven times as a single person, ying hundreds of thousands of demons and protecting the safety of a thousand countries in the mortal world! And you say we can simply depose him?" Shangguan Yu stood up suddenly, her eyes red. She ced her hands on the round table, her veins popping with anger.

    Seven times! Every single time was a fierce battle! During those seven times, she was always right beside him. She could still remember every drop of blood he shed. Three years ago, his Sword Soul was shattered. Despite his condition, he was still conscious and had never requested to be relieved from his position!

    <i>Why? </i>Naturally, because he was striving tenaciously for survival under desperate circumstances. He was wrestling his way back to the boulevard of righteousness, for the sake of leading Azure Spirit Sect once again.

    Now the so-called deposition by these people was to dethrone the Sect Master, which was the biggest insult to a demon-ying swordsman!

 Chapter 046 - Ye Family Sect Dazzling the Heavens!

    <h4>Chapter 046 - Ye Family Sect Dazzling the Heavens!</h4>

    "Shangguan Yu, I admit Zhao Jianxing has merits toward Azure Spirit and thousands of nations, but can a saint not make mistakes? Can they let their disciples do evil? Now Zhao Jianxing does not have the virtue or ability to match his position. He is better off dead than alive, why should he upy the position of Sect Master?" Liu Xuan scoffed.

    "You shut up! You wolf-hearted, dog-lunged thing!" Shangguan Yu roared, rage flooding her veins.

    "The first rule of Azure Spirit is that the head of the Sword Pavilion is the Sect Master! Even if the Sect Master is to be reced, it should be Zhao Xuanran," Fourth Sword Venerable, Chen Dong, suddenly interrupted.

    Back in the day, the Sword Pavilion was the strongest among the eight great sword cultivation forces. Only by uniting could the other seven restrain it. At that time, the Eight Laws of Azure Spirit were established, naturally securing the central position of the Sword Pavilion!

    "What joke is this? One unworthy person is reced by another? What will Azure Spirit be then? A den of thieves?" Yao Manxue scornfully said.

    "The Sword Pavilion is about to dissolve, who else can be the Sect Master? It''s been hundreds of years. The Azure Spirit Laws should be changed!" Zhang Jian said. Their words, eachplementing the other, made their goal increasingly clear.

    "The Seventh Sword Venerable is right!" Ye Tiance, with his sharp eagle eyes, said solemnly, "Every era has its rules! Today the era has changed, and new rules should guide the righteous path of Azure Spirit."

    "That''s right!"

    "I, from the Third Sword Peak, agree!"

    "So do we!"

    "May I ask the First Sword Venerable, who do you think should be the new Sect Master?" Zhang Jian asked with a sycophantic smile.

    "Of course, it''s Ye Guying, who fought for the utmost glory of our Azure Spirit!" Ye Tiance said without hesitation. Before Ye Guying''s status skyrocketed in the Sea of Swords, he''d also thought of bing the Sect Master himself. But now that was no longer necessary.

    ording to the Azure Spirit Laws, the Sect Master had to be the Master of the Sword Pavilion. Thew would be overturned sooner orter. However, to silence all the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators, they still needed a seemingly legitimate banner. Tonight, trampling on the lifelong reputation of Zhao Jianxing was the perfect opportunity!

    "The name of Swordking Ye shakes the Sea of Swords! He is the glory of Azure Spirit!" Zhang Jian eximed.

    "Who among the past Masters of the Sword Pavilion could enter the Forbidden Tower?" Liu Xuan sneered with disdain.

    "He is destined to lead Azure Spirit into a new era, reorganize the spirit of Azure Spirit, and eradicate the evil of the Sword Pavilion!" Yao Manxue coldly made the final judgment.

    Outside, many Sword Cultivators, listening to their fierce quarrel, were all stunned. Who was upright? Who was cunning and deceitful, yet bit back, reversing ck and white, and ndering others? In fact, the truth had already burst out, clear in people''s hearts. It could only be said that the existence of Ye Guying really gave these people unbridled courage!

    "Close the door!" Ye Tiance suddenly said.

    "I will." Yao Manxue stood up, walked to the door, and said to the surrounding sword cultivators, "Move back!"

    "Yes..." People could only move back, their hearts filled with mixed emotions.

    As soon as the hall door closed, Ye Tiance''s face immediately turned cold. "Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, Li Chenlong!" He coldly looked at these three people and said, "The words just now were for outsiders. The words next are for you!"

    The three across red, their mouths sealed in silence.

    "Listen up!" Ye Tiance''s hawk-like eyes scanned over them. "I do not need your approval tonight. This is myst warning. If any of you fail to cooperate, when Ye Guying returns, you will have no ce to rest your corpse!

    "Starting now, anyone who brings up the Azure Spirit Law, off with their heads!"

    "In the future Azure Spirit Sword Sect, there will be no Sword Pavilion, no numbered Sword Peaks. This will be Ye Guying¡¯s sect alone, his word is thew.

    "Anyone in the way will die! Understand?" His words hung in the air, filling the hall with a deathlike silence. This was the harsh reality.

    "Hahaha..." Shangguan Yu suddenlyughed.

    "What are youughing at?" Ye Tiance''s voice was sinister.

    "I''mughing at your bogus bravado, at your desperate attempts to nder Zhao Jianxing, afraid that his honor would influence the hearts of the people!¡± Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes held nothing but disdain. Not disdain for their strength. But for their character! What a bunch of petty men! A band of moral clowns!

    "Fine! Your words have just bought you a death sentence in ten days!" Ye Tiance¡¯s fists clenched, eyes twisted with rage.

    "Scoundrels will get their dues! Associating with you disgraces my sword!" Shangguan Yu spat a contemptuous nce at him and stormed out of the hall.

    "She chooses death, what about you?" Ye Tiance sneered at Chen Dong and Li Chenlong.

    The two exchanged a nce, ready to stand and leave.

    ¡°Sword Venerables!" But a group of elders from the Fourth and Fifth Sword Peaks came forward, holding them back, shaking their heads at them.

    "See? This is the will of the people!" Ye Tianceughed with a snort. "Fine, even if you join us, when Azure Spirit is rebuilt, you two won''t be missed!"

    The situation was set! Chen Dong and Li Chenlong, facing the desperate, pleading faces of the elders behind them, could only close their eyes and sigh deeply. They had to bend against the overwhelming force! They were not representing themselves, but their entire Sword Peak.

    "Brother Ye!" Yao Manxue''s eyes filled with cold intent again, ¡°What''s the next step?¡±

    ¡°We must continue to discredit Zhao Jianxing, then announce Swordking Ye''s ascension!¡± Zhang Jian dered.

    Ye Tianceughed, ¡°We will tarnish him thoroughly, ensure Zhao Jianxing will never rise again even in death!¡±

    "Please borate!" Liu Xuan respectfully said.

    Ye Tiance''s face was filled with malice. "First, tear down the Grand Hall, the symbol of their hypocritical righteousness!"

    "Second, spill a hundred cauldrons of filthy blood, corpses, and demon feces from the sky over the Sword Pavilion, turning the Sword Pavilion mountains into demon mountains!"

    "Third, dig up the graves of the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion!"

    These three sentences left the Sword Venerables and elders present with buzzing minds.

    "You!" Chen Dong, filled with rage, was about to stand up when a group of elders from the Fourth Sword Peak urgently held him down, nearly begging him to stay silent.

    "The desecration of the Grand Hall! Demon mountains! And now grave-digging! Brilliant, truly brilliant!" Zhang Jian, the sycophant, immediately apuded in ttery.

    "Zhao Jianxing''sck of morals and direction is clear. If he still holds onto his lifetime of fame, it would be too ironic. It''s only right to dig up their so-called integrity. I believe all the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators will understand!" Yao Manxueughed.

    "That Zhao Jianxing is actually awake. Won¡¯t he die of anger at these three blows?" Zhang Jianughed yfully.

    "I reckon there''s an eighty percent chance he will die on the spot from a soul split!¡± Ye Tiance''s lips curled upward. He knew Zhao Jianxing too well. Saying eighty percent was conservative!

    "A tarnished reputation, death from anger, that would indeed be a joke for the ages." Yao Manxue shook her head in mockment.

    "This is exactly the time for Ye Guying to rightfully overshadow the generations of Sword Pavilion¡¯s Sect Masters with his power!¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s eyes swirled with light.

    ¡°What about Yun Xiao?¡± Liu Xuan asked.

    ¡°This kid is definitely hiding. It¡¯s pointless to chase him. Once the Sword Pavilion is humiliated, he will appear,¡± Ye Tiance said coldly.

    ¡°Right!¡±

    ¡°Then to prevent Zhao Jianxing from trying to do anything in desperation, we don¡¯t need to show up, remote operation will do,¡± Ye Tiance dered.

    "Very good!" Zhang Jian and Liu Xuan, both were a bit afraid of being ''bitten by a desperate dog''!

    Zhao Jianxing only had the power to kill! And anyone could carry out these three humiliating acts! By this point, they couldn''t wait any longer.

    ¡°Immediately gather all the elders of Azure Spirit. Assemble at Sword Cloud Walk! Prepare to go to the Sword Pavilion to convict Zhao Jianxing!¡± Ye Tiance announced loudly.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Yao Manxue and others nodded.

    ¡°Whoever doesn¡¯te, will be out of Azure Spirit¡¯s future,¡± Ye Tiance nced at Chen Dong and Li Chenlong.

    ¡°Don''t worry, Sword Venerable, the elders from the fourth and fifth sword peaks will alle!¡± Many elders hurriedly answered on behalf of Chen Dong and Li Chenlong.

    ¡°Zhang Jian, you are in charge of preparing a hundred cauldrons of filthy blood, corpses, and demon feces! I want the Sword Pavilion to stink for ten years, so the more, the better!¡± Ye Tiance ordered.

    ¡°That might take an hour!¡± Zhang Jian said.

    ¡°No problem, we have plenty of time, we¡¯ll wait for you here at Sword Cloud Walk,¡± Ye Tianceughed heartily.

    ¡°No problem! Guaranteed to be fresh!¡± Zhang Jian grinned.

    ¡°Alright!¡± Ye Tiance took a deep breath, looking out at the Azure Spirit mountains. His heart was bold and spirited, ready to burst forth.

    ¡°Send the order down, disciples of the seven great Sword Peaks, prepare to wait for the signal, shine your Sword Souls in the night sky, and form a name in the sky to wee the arrival of a new era!¡± Ye Tiance proimed loudly.

    ¡°Whose name?¡±

    ¡°Ye Guying!¡±

    In a corner, a little ck beast, picking up tworge chicken legs from the table, stuffed them in its mouth! With a whoosh, it disappeared.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the pinnacle of the First Sword Peak!

    News of the events at Sword Cloud Walk, along with the Sword Venerable¡¯s promation, had already swept through the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    ¡°All disciples,e to the Ye family ancestral shrine!¡±

    Atop the highest peak of the First Sword Peak, there stood a majestic golden hall. Inside the golden hall, ancestral spirit ques filled the space, each one crafted from Spirit Stones, radiating flowing light. This was the Ye Family ancestral shrine on the First Sword Peak!

    The history of the First Sword Peak was long, being a force on the Sword Dao even before joining the Azure Spirit Sword Sect and passing through many generations. And a significant part of the spirit ques in this ancestral shrine were from ancestors who were Sword Cultivators before joining the Azure Spirit.

    Now, in front of the ancestral shrine, nearly a thousand Sword Cultivators had been summoned by an iron order. Hearing of tonight''s grand event, many Sword Cultivators are excited, their eyes wild with anticipation.

    During the day, their strongest one hundred and twenty disciples had been in by Yun Xiao alone, truly frustrating! And at night, hearing that their first disciple, Ye Ziyan, was first sullied then killed, they were even more angered to the point of vomiting blood.

    But thankfully, Ye Tiance was furiously enraged!

    The time to take revenge hade.

    ¡°Ancestors of the Ye Family above!¡± At the front of the crowd, a white-haired, hawk-nosed old man led everyone in kneeling. He was none other than Ye Tiance''s father, the previous First Sword Venerable, Ye Xuanying.

    Yes, he was still alive, and had only vacated his position. In this First Sword Peak, he still held great prestige, deemed honorable and respected. Behind Ye Xuanying was Ye Tiance¡¯s wife from the Fan Family, along with ny-nine members of the Ye Family!

    As for Ye Guying, even though he also carried the surname Ye, he was not born of the Ye Family of the First Sword Peak. However, he was brought into the Azure Spirit by Ye Xuanying from a young age, actually considering him an adopted son, a peer to Ye Tiance!

    Regardless of Ye Tiance or Ye Guying, this white-haired, hawk-nosed old man was a guide on the path of cultivation. At this moment, Ye Xuanying is stirred with emotion, his eyes crimson.

    ¡°Tiance! Guying! The two of you have realized the dream of my lifetime, and even more have mended the regret of the generations of Ye Ancestors!¡± Grandsons and granddaughters, dead. But exchanged for a clear and proper chance for session of power.

    New heirs could be birthed. After all, the Ye Family wasrge. But this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the one chance to rightfully shred the Laws of Azure Spirit, without the risk of getting a knife in the back.

    There was no choice. The Sword Pavilion were strict on themselves and others. It was too hard to find a loophole!

    "The desecration of the Grand Hall, demon mountain, grave digging, and a stench that won''t go away for ten years! From now on, this Azure Spirit blessednd will exclusively belong to the Ye Family!" Ye Xuanying¡¯s eyes were feverish as he looked towards the ancestral shrine in front of him. There, each token seemed to shine with a proud light.

    So what if Ye Guying was an adopted son? It didn''t matter! With his talent, he would ultimately dominate a side in the Sea of Swords! Once Ye Guying withdrew, the Azure Spirit would eventually be passed down in his Ye Family for hundreds, thousands of generations!

    "Once Guying ascends, I will ensure our ancestors are honored as the spirited bones of Azure Spirit!

    "I will list the spirit ques of our ancestors in the Hall of Heroes!" Ye Xuanyingughed heartily.

    "Father, the Hall of Heroes in the Sword Pavilion is full of Sword Pavilion¡¯s ancestors." Ye Tiance¡¯s wife, Fan Shi, coldly chuckled.

    "Then tear down their Hall of Heroes, from now on our Ye Family''s ancestral shrine will be the Azure Spirit''s Hall of Heroes!" Ye Xuanyingughed.

    "Haha!" Hearing these words, many First Sword Peak disciples began tough.

    Tonight¡¯s event, those above the Divine Sea Realm had basically all followed Ye Tiance out. The remaining disciples below the Dragon Spring Realm, all gathered here.

    "Prepare your Sword Souls, wait for the signal. Thousands of Sword Souls will shine and ascend, and our First Sword Peak will shine the character ''Ye'' in the sky!" Ye Xuanying proimed proudly, his face flushed with excitement.

    This was the eternal glory of the Ye Family!

    The Sixth Sword Peak was in charge of the character ''Gu.''

    The Third and Seventh Sword Peaks together would create the character ''Ying.''

    Three characters ascended, illuminating Azure Spirit''s blessednd, forever shining in the human world, honoring the ancestors!

    "The light of the Sword Soul can probably be seen by thousands of nations!"

    From now on, bing a giant star, leaving a good name for centuries, creating a generational tale! This was the elegance of a Sword Cultivator!

    Ye Xuanying was already anticipating that moment¡¯s arrival.

    "Old Sword Venerable, rest assured!"

    "We will definitely make the Ye Family shine throughout the heavens!"

    One by one, the First Sword Peak disciples were already holding their breaths in anticipation.

    "Bow again to the ancestors!" Ye Xuanying said excitedly.

    Thousands of people bowed together, then someone looked up, seemingly seeing a figure in white on the ancestral shrine.

    "Who is so disrespectful to stand on the ancestral shrine?" Someone immediately eximed.

    For a moment, everyone looked up in shock towards the golden hall above! In the dark night, a youth descended like a god, where he tread, tiles and rubble flew about!

    "Yun Xiao!" Cries of shock pierced the night sky!

    Among these fearful gazes, Yun Xiaonded alone in front of the ancestral shrine, a pair of eyes cold as the moon, facing thousands of people before him.

    "In the Cloud Nation! Ye Guying deceived the people, making me infamous for thousands of years, forcing an illegitimate change of dynasty!

    "And now here, you still want to nder the Sword Pavilion, changing the Azure Spirit Sword Sect¡¯s dynasty!" Yun Xiao suddenly looked up, his eyes shing with a deep killing intent. "The Jiang Family''s thirty-three mouths have been wiped out by me! And you will be exterminated too!"

 Chapter 047 - Why fear? We outnumber him one thousand to one!

    <h4>Chapter 047 - Why fear? We outnumber him one thousand to one!</h4>

    Almost all the Divine Sea Realm disciples of the First Sword Peak had left for the Sword Cloud Walk! Of the people still gathered at the Ye Ancestral Temple, only two from the Divine Sea Realm remained, Ye Xuanying and Ye Tiance''s wife, Fan Shi.

    Given she had the surname ''Fan'', she was almost certainly rted to the Elder Fan of the Sea of Swords.

    ¡°Father, this young man just slew Ye Ziyan and Wu Yi. Clearly, he has formidable strength. Him daring to intrude on the First Sword Peak surely means he has some backing!¡± she whispered into Ye Xuanying¡¯s ear.

    ¡°Go inform Tiance. I will lead the others to cripple him! How could a single powerful Sword Cultivator block a thousand swords?¡± Ye Xuanying''s gaze was grim.

    As Yun Xiao''s power surged dramatically, they had no time for doubt. This young man had already killed his way to their presence, standing alone, yet bearing the pressure of a thousand!

    ¡°Yes, Father, please be careful!¡± Fan Shi advised.

    ¡°I''ve battled eighty years, ying countless demons and men, why would I fear a young whelp?¡± Ye Xuanying scoffed with a sinister smile.

    With her father-inw''s assurance, Fan Shi nodded and discreetly retreated into the crowd, stealthily soaring on her Sovereign Sword into the mountain forest.

    Eyes cold and focused, Ye Xuanying stared at the white-d young man. This was the youth who had murdered his grandchildren and one hundred and twenty of the top disciples of the First Sword Peak. And now he dared to ascend it? A disgrace beyond words!

    ¡°For eighty years, I¡¯ve traversed the world, and you, a small beast, dare treat me like a soft persimmon?¡± Ye Xuanying roared. Despite his age and the waning of his vitality, his Establishment Divine Sea Realm power and the twentyyers of Sword Aura on his Sword Soul still remained.

    ¡°Even in age, a treasure sword never grows old!¡± Many Dragon Spring Realm disciples all coldly stared at Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Cripple him!¡± The descendants of the Ye Family, all behind Ye Xuanying, yelled with venom in their eyes.

    <i>HUM! </i>In Ye Xuanying¡¯s hand appeared a Sword Soul, the Diamond Sword Soul. It was an Upper Comet grade Sword Soul with a twentyyer Sword Aura! In terms of quality, it ranked at the top of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, and it was the highest quality the Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone could measure!

    In Ye Xuanying¡¯s hand, the Diamond Sword Soul transformed into a three-foot Palm Sword, radiating the properties of diamond, like a shining golden sword, its twentyyers of Sword Aura gleaming sharply. In terms of hardness and sharpness, his Sword Soul was unrivaled. Even other Sword Souls with a thicker Sword Aura wouldn''t necessarily match it!

    ¡°For my entire life, I¡¯ve cut iron like mud, sliced mountains and seas. The souls that have perished under this sword are more than you¡¯ve ever seen!¡± Ye Xuanying pressed down his hand, signaling his family and disciples to retreat, ready to showcase his past valor once again.

    ¡°The Old Sword Venerable is powerful and dominant!¡±

    ¡°Yun Xiao, within three swords, you will surely be killed!¡±

    Seeing this, the disciples of the First Sword Peak and the members of the Ye Family all shouted in unison, their angry voices shaking the heavens. Their morale swelled and soared, pressing down on Yun Xiao..

    Ye Xuanying brandished his sword, stepping forward with hawk-like eyes capturing all, a rolling murderous intent moved towards Yun Xiao.

    ¡°With Ye Tiance and his Divine Sea Realmpdogs gone, you still dare to act arrogantly?¡± Yun Xiao chuckled with a cold smile. "Tonight, I''ll rob his house bare, leaving not even the crumbs!"

    Ye Tiance dared to host a Sword Venerable meeting, summoning the Divine Sea Realm experts from the entire sect to humiliate Sword Pavilion? Where did he get such balls? Did Ye Tiance truly think Yun Xiao would wait obediently within the Sword Pavilion for this ridicule? His greed, anger, and foolishness could bear many things, but not this insult!

    "Ye Xuanying, the father of Ye Tiance and the foster father of Ye Guying?" Yun Xiao''s ck eyes narrowed, fixing on this despicable old man clinging to his years.

    Ye Xuanying grinned with a menacing smile. "Kneel and kowtow, you little beast, and perhaps¡ª"

    "Kowtow?" Before the old man could finish, Yun Xiao suddenly lunged at him. He stretched out his hand, and an azure Sword Soul materialized in his palm. It appeared ordinary, but it was enveloped in an aura of death. Upon its emergence, it cloaked the world in a realm of death. A twenty-twoyer Sword Aura wrapped around it like the depths of hell. The tormented souls of Ye Ziyan, Wu Wu, and Yao Qingqian were trapped within, their anguished faces periodically emerging amidst screams.

    "Twenty-twoyer Sword Aura!" A sudden uproar rippled through the crowd. Over a thousand people instantly changed color. During the day, Yun Xiao only had fifteenyers. How did the number increase once again? The thousand-year demon bone had been absorbed by Ye Ziyan!

    Ye Xuanying, in his lifetime, had only forged twentyyers of Sword Aura. Within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, twenty-twoyers already ranked among the top three, surpassing even Ye Guying before he went to the Sword Sea, second only to Zhao Jianxing and Ye Tiance.

    "Where did you get the demon bone?" Ye Xuanying''s heart trembled.

    "How about you guess?" Yun Xiao''s white shadow elerates, flickering in the night, his killing sword thrusting out.

    <i>Azure Lightning Crane¡ªThe third move, Azure Bird!</i>

    A sword strike was unleashed as twenty-twoyers of Sword Aura weaved into an azure lightning bird, its chaotic sword energy rushing forth, its killing intent unstoppable!

    "Hmph!" Ye Xuanying grasped his Upper Comet grade Diamond Sword Soul. With one sword strike, golden sword rays shone in the night sky.

    "Is that all?" Yun Xiao¡¯s attack suddenly changed. Amidst his dancing white clothes, the Sword Soul pierced out, the Azure Lightning Crane brushing against the side of the Diamond Sword Soul.

    <i>ng! </i>The Sword Souls collided with a screeching sound. Then, a loud crack rang out. As the sharp azure sword tip slid past, arge crack appeared on the twentyyer Diamond Sword Soul!

    "Ah!" Ye Xuanying''s once-stern face crumpled, immediately contorting in unbearable pain. His body spasmed, agonized by the sword stroke that sent shockwaves through every bone.

    <i>Boom boom boom! </i>Repelled by Yun Xiao''s sword, Ye Xuanying''s palm throbbed, his bright red life blood sttered on his ruptured fist.

    <i>Hum! </i>Yun Xiao¡¯s countenance grew colder. In his hand, the Palm Sword shrunk into a Flying Sword in the blink of an eye. And then, with lethal momentum, it was thrust forward.

    Ye Xuanying, still staggering in retreat, suddenly saw a burst of azure light headed his way. "No!" In a desperate attempt, he swung his sword to defend, but it was toote. The Swallow Tail sh suddenly pierced through his abdomen, emerging from his lower back with a vicious onught.

    "My Dantian!!" Ye Xuanying''splexion turned ashen white as he convulsed, his body smashing into the dirt. Magic power resembling a squall flowed out from his abdomen, forming an energy wave that sent more than a dozen of his kinsmen flying. His body, once full of vitality, now resembled a deted balloon, rolling in the dirt.

    <i>Sputter sputter sputter! </i>Thest vestiges of his Establishment Divine Sea Realm power dispersed into the surrounding world. His Dantian ruptured, decades of painstaking cultivation returned to the world in a few breaths'' time. His lifelong dedication was annihted by a single sword!

    "Ye Xuanying, you''ve traversed the world for eighty years, is this all you''ve got?" Yun Xiao appeared before him, stomping his foot into Ye Xuanying''s dantian, hollowing out his belly.

    "Agghh!" Ye Xuanying screamed, his eyes nearly bursting with rage. His once youthful countenance now looked two decades older.

    "You couldn''t take even one of my swords, yet you had the gall to im you could take me down in three?" Yun Xiao taunted with a smirk.

    "Y-you..." Ye Xuanying''s heart quivered with shame.

    "Had your old life not still held some use, my sword earlier would have aimed for that wretched face of yours!" Yun Xiao finished, pping him across the face.

    <i>Smack!</i> Ye Xuanying''s face swelled, his teeth flew, and his eyeballs nearly popped out.

    "Are you going to keep shouting?"

    <i>SMACK!</i>

    "Go on, keep shouting."

    <i>SMACK SMACK SMACK!</i>

    A series of ps left the father of Ye Tiance and Ye Guying, swollen and pig-headed at Yun Xiao''s mercy. Stripped of his cultivation, he was left to sit in painful despair, wailing in anguish!

    "You''ve aged well, your cultivation isn¡¯t too shabby. Sadly, your Sword Soul is too weak!" Yun Xiao''s chuckling voice echoed like a nightmare in his ears.

    Upon hearing this, Ye Xuanying spat out a mouthful of dark blood. His Upper Comet grade Sword Soul had a twentyyer Sword Aura! How could one of the mightiest Sword Soul of Azure Spirit be considered weak? However, the truth was undeniable. As they shed, his Sword Soul was fractured, damaging his soul which gave Yun Xiao the advantage.

    "But why? Just what realm are you in?" Desperation and fear surged in Ye Xuanying''s heart. Why was this young man different every day? He had only been in Azure Spirit for a few days and had already wasted him, the number one Sword Venerable of the previous generation!

    "Wanna know?" Yun Xiao arched an eyebrow.

    "Speak!"

    "When your son dies, I''ll tell you!" Yun Xiao dered. After finishing his words, he once again trampled Ye Xuanying underfoot. He pressed hard. "I''ll let you know exactly what realm I''m in?"

    Yun Xiao had received over 320,000 Spirit Stones! How many Heavenly Dao Sarira did that make? He didn''t know, since Blue Star and Red Moon were still producing them! He was still far from reaching his limit! His soul was that of a mortal, but his body belonged to the Creator Immortal. To advance in the Divine Sea Realm, the magic power needed was several times that of the Dragon Spring Realm, requiring several re-cultivations of the Dragon Spring Realm. But 320,000 Spirit Stones were indeed a sect-level fortune!

    Yun Xiao had only broken through one stage for now, reaching the Mid Divine Sea Realm! With his Primordial Void Technique, taking down Ye Ziyan at the Perfect Divine Sea Realm was not a big deal. And now, after absorbing the thousand-year demon bone and possessing twenty-twoyers of Sword Aura, it wasn''t a big problem to take down this old Sword Venerable, who had one foot in the coffin.

    Yun Xiao sneered inwardly, then turned to the nearly one hundred members of the Ye Family andughed, "How about it? Watching me trample your ancestor like this. Are you Ye Family Sword Cultivators all just a bunch of useless cowards?"

    The Ye Family disciples were already outraged, and Yun Xiao¡¯s words ignited that storm of anger even more!

    "Come on, kill me! Weren¡¯t you very arrogant just now? Weren¡¯t you going to destroy the Sword Pavilion and seize the position of the Sect Master? Can you really do that while being so useless? Aren''t you disgracing your own ancestors like this?

    "Or is it the fact..." Yun Xiao continued, "that your Ye ancestors are all just as useless and cowardly as you lot? Only daring to hide in the back and shoot arrows from afar? And you still want to enter the Hall of Heroes?"

    <i>Hum! </i>Yun Xiao sent out his Flying Sword with a flick of his hand. Then, with a loud crashing sound, his sword pierced through each spirit que, turning all the ques of the Ye Family ancestors to dust. "So this is the mighty Ye Family? I¡¯ve pierced your ancestors'' spirit ques, howe there¡¯s no reaction?

    "Yet, all you cowards still have the face to think about digging the graves of my seven senior brothers and sisters?"

    Yun Xiao had heard the whole conversation in the Sword Venerable meeting at Sword Cloud Walk! Each word, loud and clear, leaving himpletely enraged!

    Now, he was trampling on Ye Tiance''s father and destroying the spirit ques of their ancestors.

    Ye Tiance nned to disgrace the Sword Pavilion? Then, Yun Xiao''s had no qualms about arriving at the First Sword Peak and humiliating him to death first. This was his favorite way of settling scores. "You want to kill me? I''ll kill you first! You want to humiliate me, I will humiliate you a hundredfold!"

    "Yun Xiao!" A group of Ye Family members in the Dragon Spring Realm roared in fury. Even a portion of the disciples from the First Sword Peak were enraged!

    "Those who wish to annihte me, step forward. Those willing to give Sword Pavilion a fair judgment, stay where you are. I promise I won''t treat you unfairly!" Yun Xiao said. The young man in white held his azure sword, his eyes filled with pride as his gaze swept over a thousand men.

    "Our Ye Family ancestors are disgraced. This humiliation cannot stand!"

    "We outnumber him a thousand to one! He''s just one man with one sword! What can he do?"

    "Attack!"

    The Ye Family, filled with righteous indignation, rallied everyone, leading the charge. However, they overestimated their family''s unity and underestimated Yun Xiao¡¯s intimidating presence!

    As they all drew their swords, within the First Sword Peak, only about three hundred stepped forward to attack Yun Xiao. The majority chose to stay where they were, gritting their teeth.

    Among them, many were coerced from the Sword Pavilion, who had wept and grieved for it three years prior, only to bow to the present reality. During the day, with the return of Azure Spirit Cauldron, and Yun Xiao¡¯s emergence, they were all prepared to return to the Sword Pavilion. Who knew that Ye Guying would oppress everything, once again suppressing their spirits?

    And now, with Ye Tiance twisting the truth, trying to tarnish the loyal bones of the Azure Spirit''s Sect Master and unearthing the graves of the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, who wouldn¡¯t be distressed? Yet in their weakness, helplessness, and sorrow, there was still a bottom line in the heart of every Sword Cultivator!

    For most people on First Sword Peak, their limit was that they would not raise their swords against Yun Xiao in his righteous struggle. In these mountains of Azure Spirit, many had no say and could only go with the flow. But they had hearts, and they had fervor! They would eventually stand out!

    When Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze swept over and found that the majority were silently supporting him, he was moved! "This world is not as despicable as I imagined!"

    Many loyal and righteous people simply didn¡¯t have the chance to speak out! For Yun Xiao, this scene gave him the greatest significance to fight today!

    "Thank you all!" Yun Xiao bowed. Then suddenly, his gaze turned cold, a killing intent erupted, sweeping towards another group! There were about four hundred disciples, all in the Dragon Spring Realm! Nearly a hundred were from the Ye family, and they all charged at Yun Xiao!

    "Ye Tiance! Once you ascend the Sword Pavilion, I''ve got a grand surprise waiting for you!" With a sweep of his sword, d in ethereal white like a demon unleashed, Yun Xiao plunged into the crowd. Those desiring his death met their own demise instead. His sword moved in sweeping arcs, heads soaring through the air.

    "Where is he?"

    "I can''t see him!"

    Earlier in the day, Yun Xiao''s mastery of Leisurely Wander was enough to wreak havoc among the First Sword Peak''s hundred and twenty top disciples! Now that he was shrouded under the cover of night, all these people were simply stepping into a meat grinder!

    A white shadow flickered, amidst mountains of corpses and rivers of blood. One by one, people around them fell, and they couldn¡¯t even see where Yun Xiao was! Fear finally gripped them. They broke.

    "Run!"

    "Ahh!"

    "Save me!"

    ...

    With the Swallow Tail sh technique directing his Flying Sword, each strike pierced a heart.

    "Think you can escape? All four hundred of you, where could you possibly go?" Yun Xiao said coldly. His sword cut across the sky, radiating an azure light. Each person who attempted to escape on their Sovereign Swords suddenly spurted blood from their chests and bellies, their eyes wide and filled with despair as they fell from the sky, their heads bursting upon impact. Before the ancestral temple of the Ye Family, a hell on earth emerged.

    "Ye Tiance isn''t here. Where''s all your bravado now? Come on, fight me! Cowards! Die for me!" Yun Xiao shouted. Four hundred in the Dragon Spring Realm, how long could theyst under his twenty-twoyer Heaven burial Sword Soul? To him, they were all tofu!

    "My noble Ye Family, my First Sword Peak, ah..." Ye Xuanying, seeing all this, spat blood thrice in a row, his every hope turned to ashes.

    "Ancestor! Ancestor..." One by one, the Ye Family members, their faces pallid, cried out in agony, their bodies drenched in blood, clutching their Dantians. Sure enough, they weren¡¯t dead! But their plight was worse than death. Their Dantians were shattered, holes gaping, their magical powers lost, reduced to mere mortals. All of them, crippled!

    For Cultivators, falling from such heights indeed brought more grief and agony than direct death. The key was that when others were crippled, it was just one. But Yun Xiao, with one move, crippled an entire family!

    "Is this... the noble Ye Family?" At that moment, standing before the hundred crippled individuals, Yun Xiao¡¯sugh pierced at their hearts like a sword.

    Amidst their sorrow and anger, the Ye Family all broke into tears. Yun Xiao had killed the others but spared them. They knew he was surely preparing an even more terrifying fate, waiting for them.

 Chapter 048 - Tonight, I Only Seek Death!

    <h4>Chapter 048 - Tonight, I Only Seek Death!</h4>

    Yun Xiao hoisted Ye Xuanying to his feet, prying open the old man''s bleary eyes. "Take a good look at yourself!" he dered with a triumphant smirk. "Congrattions! Every Dantian in the Ye Family is shattered. All utterly useless now!"

    "Y-you fiend...!" Tears flowed like rivers down Ye Xuanying''s aged cheeks.

    ¡°You know the saying, don''t you? Don¡¯t underestimate the youth. Also, from all the stories I''ve read in my childhood, a shattered Dantian is just the first step for all supreme experts to rise. From today on, your entire Ye Family can strut around and p faces. Aren''t you happy?" Yun Xiaoughed again.

    With a pained gasp, Ye Xuanying spat out even more blood.

    Everything was over. What was Ye Tiance''s whole scheme for? The ndering of Zhao Jianxing, the usurping of power at the First Sword Peak? It was all for the sake of unifying the Azure Spirit Sword Sect under the Ye Family for generations!!

    And now? Ye Tiance was still waiting for the arrival of the filthy blood, defiled corpses, and demon feces from Zhang Jian! But here was Yun Xiao, having ruined the Ye Family''s future generations. What was left to pass down now? Nothing but feathers!

    ¡°Yun Xiao, my son knows of your whereabouts. You are undoubtedly dead!¡± Ye Xuanying roared with desperate fury.

    ¡°Oh, really? Then who is that?¡± Yun Xiao pointed into the distance. With a loud thump, a headless corpse flew from the dark forest,nding before Ye Xuanying¡¯s eyes. A fearsome beast''s shadow shed and vanished within the dark canopy.

    Stunned, Ye Xuanying lowered his gaze and spat another mouthful of blood. It was his daughter-inw, Fan Shi, Ye Tiance¡¯s wife. She had gone to report the situation. Now, she was headless.

    All those who supported the Ye Family were now dead. The remaining First Sword Peak Sword Cultivators, unable to move forward, took several steps back, watching Yun Xiao with wide eyes and open mouths. Ye Tiance had no idea his family had been devastated by Yun Xiao.

    Ye Xuanying''s mind buzzed. What on earth was this young man nning next?

    ¡°Anyone here got chains? Lend them to me!¡± Yun Xiao called to the remaining First Sword Peak disciples. The crowd, stunned and terrified, retreated.

    "Fear not. I¡¯m clear about debts and gratitude. A favor of a drop of water will be repaid tenfold, a spark of enmity avenged a hundredfold!¡± Yun Xiao announced solemnly.

    The crowd exchanged nces.

    ¡°I have! I''ll lend it to you!¡±

    ¡°Me too!¡±

    "I''ve got some as well!"

    ...

    Chainsnded one by one in Yun Xiao¡¯s hands. Then, he linked them all together. "Thanks. I hope that one day, I can travel the world with all of you, no more infighting, with the swords of Sword Cultivators only pointing at demons!¡±

    After saying this, Yun Xiao turned and used the chains to bind the wailing members of the Ye Family together, wrapping the chains around their necks.

    ¡°Dare you take us captive?¡± Ye Xuanying''s heart thudded with dread.

    ¡°I dare capture your ancestors too!¡±

    Striding into their ancestral hall, Yun Xiao tore down a curtain from above and, with a fierce flick, enveloped all the spirit ques of the Ye Family, bundling them up and tying them to the chain as well!

    ¡°What on earth do you want to do?¡± Ye Xuanying''s voice trembled with despair.

    ¡°Taking them to meet their unworthy descendants,¡± Yun Xiao said indifferently.

    Ye Xuanying fell silent. A premonition crept over him. His son, Ye Tiance, was going to spit blood next! All the Ye Family Divine Sea Realm Sword Cultivators around him were going to spit blood!

    Finally, Yun Xiao approached the crowd at the First Sword Peak again.

    ¡°Everyone, do me a favor. If one day I can y the demons and return justice to the Sword Pavilion, I will be immensely grateful to you all!¡± he said.

    ¡°Please, speak!¡± someone responded.

    Yun Xiao whispered a few words in the crowd. On hearing his words, they all wore peculiar expressions.

    ¡°Rest assured! Anyway, they won¡¯t know who released them!¡± someone said.

    ¡°Thank you!¡±

    Yun Xiao bowed his hands to them.

    <i>BUZZ </i>With one hand dragging a bundle of the Ye Family ancestral spirit que and the other pulling a chain of Ye Family members, he took to the sky on his Sovereign Sword. The hundred <i>useless</i> Ye Family members were dragged into the air, howling in terror, leaving behind a group of Sword Cultivators, exchanging nces.

    ¡°After today¡¯s events, I think Yun Xiao may not be inferior to Sword King Ye! Who will win this contest is still uncertain, everyone, be cautious where you stand!¡± someone reminded.

    ¡°Right!¡±

    ¡°We actually have a preference...¡±

    Just, they dared not say more.

    Who was the true sword cultivator, full of heroic bravery and valour? People¡¯s hearts shed with a white shadow.

    Who colluded with demons, distorting right and wrong, framing the loyal and good? People''s hearts also had a count.

    ¡°Three years!¡±

    ¡°All of Azure Spirit really owes the Sword Pavilion justice!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Sword Cloud Walk! Apart from the Second Sword Peak, elders and some top disciples from the other six major Sword Peaks, all in the Divine Sea Realm, gathered here. Over a thousand people!

    In fact, even from the Second Sword Peak, many snuck over to join the grand event. This was the great army of Sword Cultivators from Azure Spirit!

    Should northern demons descend, their first duty as Divine Sea Sword Cultivators was to forge a great wall with their Sword Souls, guarding the mortal world¡¯s thousands of nations!

    However, today their task was... to throw filth at the Sword Pavilion and the Sect Master!

    A group of Sword Cultivators stood in the cold sky, murderous aura chilling the air. Among the crowd, Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue stood as if bathed in glorious light, their faces full of divine power. Under the support of the strong, they stood on the side of justice, their beings filled with righteousness! In contrast, Chen Dong and Li Chenlong, two Sword Venerables, were pushed to the edges, their resentment swallowed down.

    ¡°The world is cold, and the petty are in power, leaving themon folk to suffer!¡± Chen Dong sighed, eyes filled with destion.

    ¡°Ye Guying is talented. What a shame Ye Xuanying crafted him a selfish character, seeking only the strength of the Immortal Dao, severing worldly connections!¡± Li Chenlong, eyes filled with confusion, turned to look at Chen Dong. ¡°Brother Chen, what, do you say, is the true meaning of cultivation? Is it to be an Immortal at the expense of countless lives, with the world''s cmities none of our concern? Or is it to wield a sword to soar, securing heaven and protecting the Dao?¡±

    ¡°I know not! Some adhere to the former, holding themselves in high regard, using any means, yet often they live well. Some follow thetter, their conscience clear, yet meet a fate of shattered swords and ruined bodies, soon to face total defeat and infamy!¡± Chen Dong, looking towards the Sword Pavilion, was filled with regret.

    ¡°Heaven''s Dao is unfair! Who will wield justice?¡± Li Chenlong exhaled a breath. In his mind¡¯s eye, an image of a young man in white appeared.

    ¡°Today I thought Yun Xiao was thest banner of Azure Spirit, but I did not expect Ye Guying to still overshadow him! Now Yun Xiao has caused a great disaster...¡± Li Chenlong''s voice was hoarse.

    "I¡¯m filled with guilt, not leaving with the backbone like Sister Yu! I¡¯ve failed Senior Brother, failed the Master, and failed this sword!" The eyes of Chen Dong were filled with destion.

    They were from the Sword Pavilion! As the Fourth and Fifth Sword Venerables, they watched as thousands threatened to trample the Sword Pavilion, helpless to intervene.

    "Has it been two hours?" Chen Dong asked.

    "Yes! Has Zhang Jian arrived yet?" Li Chenlong looked around.

    It didn''t take this long for the six great Sword Peaks to gather the elders! The reason they waited two hours in the Sword Cloud Walk was certainly for the filth that would defile the Sword Pavilion for a decade, a stain impossible to cleanse!

    "Apologies for the wait!" Just as the thousands of Divine Sea Sword Cultivators were growing impatient, the Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, finally arrived. He jogged over,ing to a halt before Ye Tiance, a smile stered across his face.

    "Why sote? Everyone''s been anxiously waiting," Ye Tiance says with some irritation.

    For some unknown reason, waiting had left him uneasy, as though he¡¯d missed out on some big event.

    "Can''t help it. I was short on time, and we didn''t have enough on hand. I had to ughter some more small demons," Zhang Jian said with an embarrassed smile.

    "Are they fresh?" Yao Manxue asked.

    "Yes!" Zhang Jian grinned widely.

    "Fresh is better!" Yao Manxue noded.

    "Bring them here to check," Ye Tiance ordered.

    At Zhang Jian''s call, numerous elders from the Seventh Sword Peak arrived, each holding a gigantic cauldron, all sealed shut!

    <i>Boom boom boom! </i>Over a hundred cauldrons are ced before everyone''s eyes!

    Ye Tiance raised an eyebrow, "Open one and let¡¯s see."

    "No problem." Zhang Jian personally opens a cauldron. The instant it¡¯s opened, a flood of stench violently surges out, sweeping across the Sword Cloud Walk in a blink.

    "It stinks!" One by one, the Sword Cultivators frowned, their long sleeves covering their noses, retreating a few steps unwillingly.

    "This is too disgusting," Yao Manxue hurriedly formed a shield with her powers, fearing the foul air would taint her.

    "It''s not just the smell!" From within the cauldron, waves of ck and red smoke spread out, turning into ck demonic miasma, apanied by the chilling sounds of ghosts howling and wolves wailing, making everyone¡¯s scalp tingle. Looking into the cauldron, it was filled with polluted blood, demon corpses, bones, and souls.

    "It''s mainly made of polluted demons, they are the dirtiest, their resentment the strongest. Years after their death, their wicked souls remain, potentially bing demons again!"

    "There are over a hundred and thirty cauldrons. If poured on the Sword Pavilion, it should cover all the spiritual energy there. By then, the underground dragon veins might move, likely shifting towards other Sword Peaks!" Zhang Jian''s eyes were filled with anticipation.

    "Not bad!" Hearing this, Ye Tiance finally smiled.

    "These two hours were not wasted," Yao Manxue also said with a charming smile.

    "With this, the Sword Pavilion will stink for more than a decade!" Liu Xuanughs.

    "Haha!"

    "Sword Venerable, in that case, there¡¯s no need to move our First Sword Peak ancestral spirit ques to the Hall of Heroes. We can build our own Hall of Heroes!" a Ye Family member from the First Sword Peak suggested.

    "Right! The ancestors of Sword Pavilion, to actually raise a beast like Yun Xiao, how could they rest in peace in the so-called Hall of Heroes? Later, let¡¯s directly pour this filthy blood and corpses on the Hall of Heroes" Another Ye Family member expectedly said.

    "Before that, let¡¯s demolish their Hall of Heroes. There are quite a few spirit crystal-forged ques, beams, steps, and stone pirs inside. Let''s move them all to our Hall of Heroes to honor our Ye Family ancestors!¡±

    ¡°Our Ye Family ancestral¡¯ spirit ques must shine brightly!¡±

    Upon hearing this, Ye Tianceughed, "My father, on the other side, must have already notified the ancestors."

    ¡°We, the disciples of the Sixth Sword Peak, are also ready to disy our Sword Souls to the sky," Yao Manxue said.

    "Starting tonight, the Sword Pavilion will be a foul and stinking deadnd!" Zhang Jian dered.

    ¡°Zhao Jianxing is unjust and unvirtuous, and should be infamously remembered for eternity!" Liu Xuan announced.

    Two hours! Everyone couldn¡¯t wait any longer.

    "Demolish the Grand Hall, peel off the Hall of Heroes, dig up the graves of the Seven Prodigies, and sprinkle down the filthy demon blood!¡±

    "Depose the Sect Master, raise a new Venerable!¡±

    ¡°Let the name Ye Guying shine in the Azure Spirit night sky, renowned across a thousand earthly nations!¡±

    Ye Tiance looked in the direction of Sword Pavilion, his gaze intense. ¡°My Ye Family''s Sword Cultivators will unify Azure Spirit for thousands of generations in this move!¡±

    These words stirred their hearts. Ye Guying hadn¡¯t returned yet, Zhao Jianxing hadn¡¯t died yet, so he held steady, not in a hurry to shout it out.

    "Guying will sooner orter dominate the Sea of Swords. Azure Spirit is ultimately just his backing, these matters here will naturally be managed by me... It seems I need to have more children with my lovely Fan while I¡¯m still young!¡± Thinking of this, Ye Tiance¡¯s ambition surged, already boundless.

    "Depart!" With a whoosh, thousands of Divine Sea Sword Cultivators soared majestically into the sky! The target was the Sword Pavilion!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Night fell on the Sword Pavilion!

    "I''m sorry!" With these words, Shangguan Yu, dressed in a cool blue robe, bowed her head in apology, her eyes dim with sorrow. Before hery the vast Grand Hall! Within the hall, a shadow sat in silence, eyes wide open, unmoving. He had never closed his eyes. For he couldn''t bear to..

    Shangguan Yu knew he must have heard everything she said.

    Within the deste hall, an aura of stern death hung. His azure robes fluttered without wind, a few strands of white hair at his temples danced like swords, surging with sharp edges. In those shattered eyes, a trace of boundless rage shed. And hatred. Hatred for himself, for being unable to stand, to y the viins!

    "Father..." Beside Shangguan Yu stands a woman in a ck gown. Under the moonlight, her skin was as cold and white as snow, her delicate figure casting a beautiful silhouette. Yet now, her face was veiled with a deep shadow of sorrow and anger, like two immense dragons, surging in the depths of her eyes.

    Beside her, Grandpa Qin, three elders, and disciples from the Sword Pavilion, were all present! Each face was pale, their hearts filled with intense fury and overwhelming grief.

    "Junior Brother Yun¡ª" Cai Maomao''s voice was hoarse.

    "Do not me him!" the woman in the ck gown suddenly shouts, cutting off Cai Maomao''s words.

    Cai Maomao shook his head. How could he me him? Brother Yun, to vent his anger, had killed Ye Ziyan, Wu Yi, Yao Lie, Yu Xuanzhou... What a ruthless person!

    "But now, as the Sword Pavilion is trapped, where is he who has caused this?" Shangguan Yu gritted her teeth, ¡°It is because he could not keep his calm that those viins found an opportunity to tarnish Jianxing''s lifetime reputation!"

    ¡°I said, do not me him!¡± Zhao Xuanran grits her teeth as well.

    "Lil Ran..." Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes are red, "I just think it¡¯s not worth it for your father! Such an upright person should not have fallen like this! The ancestors of the Sword Pavilion should not be trampled upon!"

    ¡°I know, I know it all,¡± Zhao Xuanran¡¯s eyes were equally red.

    ¡°Then tell me, what should we do?¡± Shangguan Yu asked.

    Zhao Xuanran closes her eyes, sighs, and says, "I want to let him go, never to return again!"

    "He¡¯s a genius. If he manages to find enlightenment one day, I hope he''ll return to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect and restore my father''s honor..." Zhao Xuanran said, her voice trailed off, lost in bittersweet hope.

    "And what of you?" Shangguan Yu asked, her voice steeped in worry.

    "I..." Zhao Xuanran cast her gaze toward the Sword Cloud Walk, moistening her lips before a carefree smile bloomed on her face. "Tonight, I seek only death."

    Seeking only death! All who dared to step into the Sword Pavilion would face her de! Despite her tender age, she alone bore the burden of the Sword Pavilion''sst shreds of dignity.

    "I am willing to die!" Grandpa Qin stepped forward. Although his eyes were blind, his face was filled with resolved determination.

    "I''m ready to die!"

    "Count me in!"

    Zhou, Zheng, Wang¡ªthe remaining three elders of the Sword Pavilion¡ªall stepped forward. They had held their ground till this day, knowing this moment was inevitable. What did they have to fear about death?

    "Our only regret tonight is that there might not be enough enemies to y in honor of our fallenrades," Grandpa Qin eximed with unwavering passion.

    "What about us..." Cai Maomao spoke with a dreadful tone.

    "I plead to the Second Sword Venerable, please ensure these children have a chance at life," Grandpa Qin immediately sank to his knees.

    "No!" Shangguan Yu swiftly intervened.

    "Grandpa, I don''t want to live either. There''s no joy in this world! I wish to join my father in the underworld," Qin Tong whimpered. Her father, Qin Qingcheng, was the eldest disciple of the Sword Pavilion.

    "Your father''s soul resides on the Bluedrop g over the Dark Abyss Mountain. Even if you died, you can''t join him," Grandpa Qin replied, his voice quivering as tears streamed down his face.

    The strength in Cai Maomao''s heart crumbled. All he ever wanted was to wait for his brother toe home...

    "Please, take them away," Zhao Xuanran implored Shangguan Yu. "If you get a chance, tell Junior Brother Yun...¡± Her words hung in the silence withoutpletion.

    "Tell him what?" Shangguan Yu prodded.

    "Nothing," Zhao Xuanran replied with a bitter smile and a shake of her head, "He''s a lone traveler in this world. He owes no one."

    "Said who?" A youthful voice rang out from nowhere.

    A young man, his white clothing stained with fresh blood, sauntered out of the inky darkness of the woods, his gaze locked on thedy in ck. He enunciated each word carefully, saying, "Senior Sister Zhao, Junior Brother Yun owes you a... <i>joyous asion</i> for celebration."

    "Shut up!" Zhao Xuanran blurted out, feeling a prickling sensation on her scalp.

    "Yes, ma¡¯am!" Yun Xiao obediently nodded.

    "Why did youe back? You should hurry on." Zhao Xuanran voice was gruff, but her tightly clenched fists hidden in her sleeves betrayed her true feelings.

    "I came back to give Senior Sister Zhao a grand gift!" Yun Xiao looked up, his eyes sparkling like a constetion.

    "What kind of gift..." Zhao Xuanran trailed off.

    Before Yun Xiao could spill the beans, the horizon behind him was aze with the shes of a thousand Sword Souls illuminating the night sky, their furious power approaching!

 Chapter 049 - These Are All Your Ancestors, Right?

    <h4>Chapter 049 - These Are All Your Ancestors, Right?</h4>

    "They''reing!" Shangguan Yu''s brows knitted together in concern.

    "Lil Ran, they carry corruption with them. We cannot let them near the Grand Hall, let alone the Hall of Heroes!" Grandpa Qin dered angrily. The Hall of Heroes, situated behind the Grand Hall, held the ancestral ques of the Sword Pavilion''s past generations.

    "Aunt Yu, I leave the disciples of the Sword Pavilion in your care." Senior Sister Zhao''s beautiful eyes were filled with the resolution of death. She looked back at the boy in white, her tone fierce, but her heart soft, "You must go with her!"

    The boy pursed his lips and finally nodded with a small smile. He had agreed!

    A sigh of relief eased Zhao Xuanran''s tense heart. With this settled, she had no more concerns. Her ck gown fluttered as she rose on her Sovereign Sword. Her heart held but a single resolve! Even in her feminine form, she would defend the Sword Pavilion to the death!

    <i>Hum! Hum! </i>Thest four elders of the Sword Pavilion, filled with rage, also ascended on their swords, hurtling toward the thousand Divine Sea Realm Sword Cultivators, like moths to me!

    "Sword Venerable, will Senior Sister Zhao, my grandfather, and the others... die?" Qin Tong¡¯s tears fell like rain, her voice filled with destion.

    After a moment of silence, Shangguan Yu said, ¡°Yes.¡± She did not want to deceive these young ones. They would die! They were destined to die!

    Tonight, just like that day in the Cloud Nation, the enemy sought a changing of the dynasty. Not only did they want the Sword Pavilion destroyed, but they also wished to tarnish its name. Perhaps because of Ye Guying, Zhao Xuanran would not be killed, but who could prevent her death to make a statement?

    "They will die to block those corrupt bastards at the base of the Sword Pavilion mountain, to prevent them from desecrating graves, destroying the Grand Hall, and dishonoring our ancestors...¡± Cai Maomao''s eyes were red as blood. He couldn¡¯t bear it anymore!

    ¡°No! After three years, as a man of honor, how can I skulk and steal life?¡± Saying this, he gritted his teeth and looked around, ¡°Where is Junior Brother Yun?!¡±

    <i>Whoosh! </i>Everyone turned their heads. The white figure beside them had vanished.

    ¡°It¡¯s bad!¡± Shangguan Yu¡¯s face changed. Yun Xiao was thest hope of the Sword Pavilion. Zhao Xuanran had ced all her hopes on him, not ming his impulsiveness today. If even this hope was extinguished tonight, her and the four elders¡¯ death would be meaningless!

    ¡°Zhao Jianxing!¡± Shangguan Yu¡¯s heart thumped wildly. With tear-filled eyes, she nced towards the Grand Hall. "You must protect them..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Before the foot of the Sword Pavilion mountain, five resolute rays of sword light cut through the air, forcing the halt of the approaching thousand Divine Sea Sword Cultivators. With two booming thuds, thousands of powerful sword masters elegantlynded on the ground. Their eyes cold and mocking, they gaze upon the five figures before them.

    A young woman in a ck gown, a blind old man, and three steadfast elders¡ªthis unlikely quintet dares to confront a thousand-strong army of sword cultivators?

    ¡°The Sword Venerables are conducting business. All unrted persons, clear out!¡± the Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, swept a cold look over the five. His voice was loud, but he was a coward hiding behind the many.

    Others like Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue also maintained a safe distance. They valued their lives too much, fearing the final strike of Zhao Jianxing. They opted to manipte the situation from afar, hoping to vex Zhao Jianxing to death from a distance. Wouldn¡¯t that be perfect?

    However, they did not expect Zhao Xuanran and herpanions to block them so far from the Grand Hall.

    ¡°Ignorant and foolish!¡± Ye Tiance, with his hands behind his back, coldly watches the woman in the ck dress, chuckling in disdain.

    ¡°She probably thinks Ye Guying still cares for her, and so her life is precious?¡± Yao Manxue sneered, thinking she understood women the best.

    ¡°What should we do?¡± Zhang Jian and Liu Xuan urgently asked Ye Tiance.

    ¡°Then let''s make the announcement here!¡± Ye Tiance deres, waving his hand grandly.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Although the faces of the arriving thousand Divine Sea Sword Cultivators varied, they answered in unison. Among them, quite a few were once disciples of the Sword Pavilion. Thousands faced the Sword Pavilion, their expressions solemn.

    ¡°Make the announcement!¡± Ye Tiancemanded, his gaze stern, looking towards the far away Grand Hall where the candles flickered. In unison, their voices shook the night sky, resonating throughout the Azure Spirit mountains.

    ¡°Zhao Jianxing, Sect Master of Azure Spirit, is immoral and hical, instigating his direct disciples Zhao Xuanran and Yun Xiao to murder in the streets, taint, and loot. Thousands have witnessed this. The evidence is irrefutable!¡±

    ¡°To cleanse the Azure Spirit Laws and rectify the reputation of all Sword Cultivators, us Sword Venerables collectively decided to remove Zhao Jianxing from the position of Sect Master. Starting today, Swordking Ye Guying will assume the role, and the First Sword Peak will rece the Sword Pavilion, establishing the Azure Spirit orthodoxy!¡±

    Waves of voice spread, a sound of righteousness trembling the countless trees of the mountains. A familiar scene¡ªdefaming for eternity, distorting ck and white, a change of dynasty.

    This chant of thousands would spread throughout Azure Spirit, reaching the thousand mundane realms. Ordinary disciples and people of thousands of countries, knowing little about the events in Azure Spirit, would ept this as the final judgment, the legacy of the Sword Pavilion tarnished for centuries. Much like how within the Cloud Nation, Yun Xiao was still bearing the me for nurturing demons that killed tens of thousands.

    Before the thousand-strong crowd, Zhao Xuanran heard this, and immense rage surged in her eyes, reminiscent of the day Yun Xiao was wrongly killed. Words were pointless at this point.

    A Sword Soul morphed into a ck Palm Sword in her hand. She grasped it, and twentyyers of ck Sword Aura whirled around it like a raven bird, emitting piercing cries. The power of her Divine Sea and the Sword Soul merged in her Dantian, the rage of soul and spirit uniting as one!

    The noble Zhao Family of Azure Spirit. For generations, they had been righteous Immortals of the sword. At twenty-two, Zhao Xuanran reached the Establishment Divine Sea Realm, standing on equal footing to Wu Wu, Yao Manxue, and other Sword Venerables. She was a worthy sessor to her valiant forebears.

    Under the night breeze, she held her sword, standing before the mountain base of the Sword Pavilion, facing the thousand Sword Cultivators. Although she remained silent, the sharp edge of her de and the fierce determination in her eyes broadcasted a clear message to the thousand there: Here stood the noble Zhao Family of Azure Spirit! It¡¯s either you die, or I perish!

    ¡°Heh heh.¡± Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and others coldlyughed. However strong the mantis arm, can it really stop the chariot?

    ¡°Hear mymand!¡± Pointing towards the Sword Pavilion with a stern face, Ye Tiance dered, ¡°Zhao Jianxing is a failure in education, a disgrace to his name! The ancestors of the Sword Pavilion have handed down nothing but cmity. They are unworthy of being called heroes''! The Sword Venerables have decided. Tear down the Grand Hall and obliterate the Hall of Heroes!¡±

    ¡°Our Seventh Sword Peak is willing to execute this order!¡± Zhang Jian hurriedly dered.

    ¡°Good!¡± Ye Tianceughed.

    ¡°I propose establishing the ancestral temple of the First Sword Peak as the new Hall of Heroes! Using the ancestral spirit ques of the First Sword Peak to represent the spirit and bone of Azure Spirit!¡± Yao Manxue suggested with a raised eyebrow.

    ¡°Agreed!¡± Many nodded their heads.

    Chen Dong and Li Chenlong, ostracized and pushed to the side, saw this group''s shameless audacity with anger in their eyes. Most of all, they felt helpless! They had been marginalized!

    ¡°Begin!¡± Ye Tiance could not wait to establish his glory anymore.

    ¡°Lil Xue, you lead the people to suppress Zhao Xuanran!¡± Ye Tiance arranged.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Though they all were in the Divine Sea Realm, Yao Manxue''s side from the Sixth Sword Peak sent out more than thirty Sword Cultivators, marching towards Zhao Xuanran to suppress her. This allowed Zhang Jian¡¯s men to pass over the crowd of in the Sword Pavilion and head straight to the Grand Hall!

    <i>Whoosh whoosh! </i>A total of a hundred Sword Cultivators abruptly moved! The shame of the ages cast its shadow!

    ¡°Father!¡± Zhao Xuanran did not look back. She felt her father¡¯s gaze as she gripped her sword and moved forward! A storm of blood and wind was about to ensue! <i>Whoosh whoosh whoosh! </i>Suddenly, not far from the two sides, a sudden ze roared towards the sky. <i>Boom!</i>

    ¡°What is that?¡± Everyone was startled, their gaze shifted towards that direction. Atop the mountain peak, the Azure Spirit Cauldron grandly appeared! Indeed, this was the first treasure of Azure Spirit, snatched back by Yun Xiao himself!

    There it stood at the peak, steadfast and immovable. Above it, fierce blue mes zed ardently, sending forth waves of scorching heat.

    ¡°The Azure Spirit Cauldron''s fire has been ignited!¡± ording to legends, this zing hot ze could reduce anything to ashes, even the toughest of steel.

    ¡°Who?¡± Eyes of many darted to the cauldron. A youth in white, bearing arge white bundle, stood at the cauldron''s edge, his expression cold.

    ¡°Yun Xiao?!¡± Upon recognizing him, the Sword Cultivators of the Sixth and Seventh Sword Peaks, who had just moved into action, halted in their tracks.

    Yun Xiao had appeared! And he was even closer to Ye Tiance and his followers. Was he suicidal?

    The fury within Ye Tiance, due to his daughter¡¯s murder and disgrace, had not yet dissipated. He was insane to show himself here! One of Ye Tiance¡¯s goals today was to force him out and vent his anger!

    ¡°This young man is truly brazen, unable to hide his presence even before the humiliation begins!¡± Yao Manxue uttered a coldugh.

    ¡°I will capture him!¡± Zhang Jian volunteered, eager to show his courage. His people from the Seventh Sword Peak were the ones assigned to dismantle the Grand Hall, and naturally, he would not dare to go, leaving him with idle hands.

    Only the three Sword Venerables could firmly suppress Yun Xiao, who had killed Ye Ziyan, who was at the Perfect Divine Sea Realm.

    ¡°Go!¡± Ye Tiancemanded, fire swirling in his eyes. He did not dare act today, keeping a safe distance, only on the alert for the light from the Grand Hall. He had feared that person for a lifetime!

    ¡°Yes!¡± With a sinisterugh, Zhang Jian darted towards Yun Xiao!

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun...!¡± Zhao Xuanran¡¯s eyes, filled with the intent to kill, warmed at the sight of the young man in white. Still, thest thing she wanted was for him to appear. She understood his heart the best! Even in the face of this cmity, how could someone like him abandon her and leave?

    ¡°Zhao Xuanran, you cannot save him!¡± Yao Manxue moved again, leading over thirty elders and disciples to encircle her and attack.

    All these three things happened at the same time.

    Almost all the Sword Cultivators were watching Yun Xiao! He''d carried out a massacre in the day during the Grand Conve! Then, he carried out another ughter in the night at the Sword Cloud Walk! And after all that killing, he still dared to show his face? What sort of bravado did this disciple of the Sword Pavilion have?

    ¡°Yun Xiao, for me, the Seventh Sword Venerable, to personally deal with you, a mere sixteen-year-old disciple, you should feel quite honored!¡± Zhang Jian sneered with malicious delight.

    ¡°Honored? Sort of like this thing here?¡± With an outstretched hand, Yun Xiao fished into arge white bag beside him and pulled out a spirit que! Yes, he did it! On his return to the farthest First Sword Peak, Yun Xiao conveniently raided the ancestral temples of the Sixth and Seventh Sword Peaks too. After all, it was on the way! The only difference was that the people from these two peaks were not gathered in front of the ancestral temple, so with few people there, he finished the job quickly.

    ¡°Zhang He, a ninth generation ancestor, huh...? So, which generation ancestor is he to you?¡± Yun Xiao asked, shaking the spirit que.

    ¡°T-that''s my grandfather!¡± Zhang Jian abruptly stopped, his face instantly turning the color of a pig''s liver. How did his grandfather¡¯s spirit que end up in Yun Xiao''s hands?

    ¡°What?¡± The Seventh Sword Peak¡¯s Divine Sea Realm Sword Cultivators, who were on their way to the Grand Hall and Hall of Heroes, suddenly braked their Sovereign Swords,'' looking somewhat baffled.

    ¡°Your grandfather, huh? Birthing such an unworthy descendant like you, he must be vomiting blood in his grave!¡± Yun Xiaoughed.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, give the spirit que to me!¡± Zhang Jian yelled menacingly.

    ¡°Give it to you? Sure!¡± As Yun Xiao extended his hand, intending to toss the que to Zhang Jian, suddenly, it slipped from his grasp, falling into the Azure Spirit Cauldron fire.

    <i>CRACKLE CRACKLE CRACKLE! </i>The Azure Spirit Cauldron fire instantly turned the spirit que to ashes.

    ¡°Oops, my hand trembled and your grandfather got burned.¡± Yun Xiao shrugged and raised an eyebrow, his expression yful.

    ¡°You!¡± Fire spurted from Zhang Jian''s eyes.

    ¡°You, a dignified Sect Master''s Disciple, dare to insult the ancestors of my Seventh Sword Peak?¡± Many from the Seventh Sword Peak coldly shouted in anger.

    ¡°Wasn¡¯t it you who first wanted to demolish my Sword Pavilion¡¯s Grand Hall and obliterate our Hall of Heroes?¡± Yun Xiao''s gaze turned three degrees colder. Those who insulted others would always be insulted themselves!

    ¡°You''re really asking for it...!¡± Zhang Jian was furiously indignant.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be in a rush.¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s hand dove back into therge white bag. This time, he pulled out seven or eight spirit ques.

    ¡°Zhang Xiao, Zhang Yunfeng, Zhang Muyue... all your ancestors, right?¡± Yun Xiao smiled.

    ¡°My second uncle! My great grandfather! My great grandmother...¡± Zhang Jian felt as if he was struck by lightning.

    ¡°Yun Xiao!¡± Many Zhang Family Sword Cultivators from the Seventh Sword Peak abandoned their initial n, their rage burning like boundless mes as they surrounded him.

    <i>CRACKLE CRACKLE CRACKLE! </i>With a flick of Yun Xiao¡¯s wrist, those spirit ques fell into the Azure Soul Cauldron fire again, instantly reduced to ashes.

    ¡°So many people. Scared me, did you? It was you all who burned your ancestors'' spirit ques, don¡¯t me me!¡± Yun Xiao said nonchntly.

    ¡°Y-you!¡± Zhang Jian was so angry that his eyes rolled back. The ancestors'' spirit ques!

    After the ancestors passed away, a strand of their residual souls was attached to these spirit ques, receiving the incense and offerings from the descendants. Now, all of them were gone, burned to nothingness! A great disgrace! A betrayal to the ancestors!

    The most crucial part was that the Azure Soul Cauldron fire was generally used for incinerating demons and monsters! Could it mean Yun Xiao was burning their ancestors as if they were such abominations?

    Witnessing this, the Zhang Family Sword Cultivators from the Seventh Sword Peak felt their faces tear and their hearts bleed internally. They had hoped their ancestors could grace the brand-new Hall of Heroes on the First Sword Peak. Now, they were indeed unworthy descendants!

    "Yun Xiao, how dare youmit such an atrocious act?" Yao Manxue''s voice was as cold as frost.

    "Hand over all the spirit ques!" Ye Tiance demanded coldly.

    "Easy there! Don¡¯t fret! You¡¯re from the First and Sixth Sword Peaks, right? Let me look for yours too!¡± As Yun Xiao spoke, he reached in again. For a moment, his hands were full of the spirit ques of the Ye and Yao ancestors.

    "Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, which of these unworthy ancestors are yours?¡± Yun Xiaoughed coldly.

    As soon as they were revealed, with a flick of his hand, all were dropped again!

    "Ooooooh..." On those spirits ques, wisps of souls that had received offerings wailed as they burned in the Azure Soul Cauldron''s mes.

    "Insolent cur!¡± Both Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue felt a surge of blood rush to their heads in anger!

 Chapter 050 - Youth in White Filled With Greed, Wrath, and Foolishness

    <h4>Chapter 050 - Youth in White Filled With Greed, Wrath, and Foolishness</h4>

    Ancestral spirit ques! A whole bundle of ancestral spirit ques!

    "Did Yun Xiao really clean out the ancestral temples of the three Sword Venerables?" many people blurted out, their eyes wide and mouths agape. These were the three great noble families of Azure Spirit!

    ¡°The guts on thisd, truly unparalleled!¡±

    Having in Ye Ziyan and others, and while Ye Tiance was summoning the Sword Cultivators, he decisively went to the ancestral temples of the three great Sword Peaks?

    ¡°Hrious, the three Sword Venerables want to demolish others'' ancestral temples, only to have their own raided first...¡±

    Even though over a thousand people came under pressure, not all were of the same mind. Seeing the three Sword Venerables so infuriated they could spit blood, many took it as a spectacle.

    With them being held up, the Sword Pavilion temporarily avoided humiliation!

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun...¡± Zhao Xuanran looked toward the white-robed youth by the Azure Spirit Cauldron''s fire. At this moment, he seemed like a world-conquering hero, bringing hope to the Sword Pavilion amidst despair!

    A stroke of pure white was deeply etched in Zhao Xuanran¡¯s bright and beautiful eyes. ¡°Let¡¯s go over!¡± She reacted quickly, leading the four elders directly toward Yun Xiao.

    Shangguan Yu, Li Chenlong, and Chen Dong exchange nces.

    ¡°Ye Tiance and the others might have just shot themselves in the foot!¡±

    ¡°Still wanting to use the First Sword Peak ancestral temple as a new Hall of Heroes?¡±

    ¡°Maybe by threatening with these spirit ques, the Sword Pavilion can avoid disaster today!¡±

    They too quietly moved closer to Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Yun Xiao!¡± Ye Tiance''s chest was in turmoil. His eyes shed a deep chill, ¡°You lowly, unqualified creature!¡±

    ¡°Takes one to know one, learned from the best,¡± Yun Xiao retorts, thoroughly opening the white bundle in front of everyone, indeed filled with spirit ques. All three ancestral temples were all here!

    Ye Tiance and the others couldn''t help but re, their eyebrows raised in anger.

    The Azure Spirit Cauldron''s mes zed intensely, Ye Tiance''s eyelids shook, as if the ancestral spirits held in Yun Xiao¡¯s hand were all cursing him. Yao Manxue and Zhang Jian were also grinding their teeth in anger!

    ¡°What do you intend?¡± Ye Tiance, as if caught in a trap, found it hard to move.

    ¡°Simple, don¡¯t demolish the Grand Hall and the Hall of Heroes. Also, take your people and scram!¡± Yun Xiao said, his gaze cold andughing.

    ¡°Thus, you¡¯ll return our ancestors¡¯ spirit ques?¡± Fire flowed in Ye Tiance''s eyes.

    ¡°Can do!¡± Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, no! These people can¡¯t be trusted...¡± Grandpa Qin hurriedly warned. There was no need to y the saint now that Yun Xiao had their weakness.

    Hearing this, Shangguan Yu, Li Chenlong, and the others get nervous, hoping Zhao Xuanran could persuade Yun Xiao.

    Thedy in the ck gown frowned her elegant eyebrows! She also didn''t understand why Yun Xiao was being so naive.

    Ye Tiance immediately said coldly, ¡°Fine! No problem, I promise publicly, you return our family''s ancestral spirit ques, and I won¡¯t personally demolish the Grand Hall and Hall of Heroes!¡± However, he never mentioned the graves of the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, and he certainly didn''t mention not drowning the Sword Pavilion in filthy blood, defiled corpses, and demon feces!

    Zhao Xuanran''s face tightened, her heart pounding against her chest in anxiety.

    "Junior Brother Yun, don¡¯t..." She barely opened her mouth when, to her utter shock, Yun Xiao suddenly broke into a brightughter.

    ¡°Fine! You''ve already given your word. So, don''t go back on it!¡±

    ¡°Great!¡± Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian allughed. But for the others in the Sword Pavilion and the three Sword Venerables like Shangguan Yu, darkness seemed to fall before their eyes.

    "Come take it!" Yun Xiao said, his face as innocent as amb.

    "This foolish kid." Senior Sister Zhao''s eyebrows shot up, ready to snatch the ancestral spirit ques herself.

    But in that moment, Yun Xiao let go of the bag in his hand! With a rustling sound, the entire white bundle dropped, plunging into the Azure Spirit Cauldron''s fire.

    A hum echoed as the blue ze swallowed the cloth, scattering countless ancestral souls from the three families. In a short time, they sizzled and popped in the intense heat, their residual souls wailing in agony as thick smoke belched and soared, their spirits obliterated beneath the offering of incense!

    ¡°Oops!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s face shifted slightly. ¡°I¡¯ve been killing pigs and dogs too muchtely, my hand''s been twitchy. I guess I identally burned all your ancestors, not my fault, right?¡±

    <i>CRACKLE CRACKLE CRACKLE! </i>The ze from the Azure Spirit Cauldron tripled in an instant, casting Yun Xiao''s white robes in a haunting green glow. Amidst the mes, a cold smile curled on his lips. Even Zhao Xuanran and the others were stunned.

    ¡°Aah! No!" Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, Zhang Jian, and others from the three great families, witnessing this scene, bulged their eyes, their blood and qi rebelling, and mes practically spewed from their eyes! Just a moment ago, they were stillughing at Yun Xiao¡¯s foolishness! Well, who''s the fool now? Did Yun Xiao truly bargain with them? At this moment, everyone understood, Yun Xiao was just toying with them!

    ¡°Still want to dismantle Grand Hall? Still want to level the Hall of Heroes?¡± Yun Xiao coldlyughed.

    ¡°You!!!¡± Ye Tiance and the others¡¯ faces turned an ashen hue. Pointing at Yun Xiao, their anger surged through the roof, watching in horror as the ancestral spirits ques and spirits were reduced to nothing but ashes.

    ¡°There¡¯s karma in this world. Want to do evil? Taste the fruits of evil first!¡± Yun Xiao dered. He didn''t want to be the viin! But he could certainly be more vinous than anyone!

    ¡°You will undoubtedly die for this insult on the ancestors of my Ye Family!¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s eyes were nearly popping out of their sockets. Just a moment ago, he was dreaming of enshrining his ancestors in the Hall of Heroes! This had turned him into a monumentalughingstock. Yao Manxue and Zhang Jian were no exception either!

    "Yun Xiao, you are brave, reckless, and impulsive. Have you considered that once these spirit ques are burned, you''ll have no more cards left to y?" Yao Manxue raged, her voice unnatural, eerie, like a demoness.

    Ye Tiance''s eyes were bloodshot, and he had reached the height of his tolerance. "Liu Xuan! Go and dig up the graves of the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion this instant! For the Sword Pavilion to nurture such a sinner like Yun Xiao, his seniors are all guilty as well! Grind their bones to dust!"

    Even now, Ye Tiance fancied driving Zhao Jianxing into an early grave out of sheer vexation. This was, after all, the primary aim of his visit. So he wouldn''t feel any remorse stooping lower to achieve it.

    Their responses had given rise to the exact fears harbored by the members of the Sword Pavilion. Retribution was thrilling but what would follow it?

    "Kill them all!" Yao Manxue instantly ordered, her voice ice-cold. Her Yao Family were also bristling with fury, their eyes cold and ruthless, pressing forward once again.

    "Are you all losing patience?" Just when the tension was about to peak, Yun Xiao brandished a chain in his hand. With a swift yank, he pulled a figure from the woods underneath the Azure Spirit Cauldron.

    "Hoh? I wonder who could this be?" Yun Xiao said sarcastically. In his hand dangled the lifeless body of a man!

    "Liu Chen!" Yao Manxue twisted her face in agony, her eyes ming red.

    "Is this your man? A handsome one indeed, too bad his head''s missing." Saying so, Yun Xiao nonchntly flung the body into the Azure Spirit Cauldron.

    <i>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </i>The mesmerizing azure me instantly reduced the body to ashes, as if the souls of a thousand demons lurking underneath greedily devoured it.

    Yun Xiao had killed this man when passing by the Yao Family ancestral temple. The man had tried to alert others upon sighting him.

    "At least, my senior brothers and sisters have graves and mourners while your man died a clean death. Not even ashes were left behind. Don''t even think about exhuming anything!" Yun Xiao taunted.

    "Y-you...!" Yao Manxue stumbled three steps backward, her organs writhing inside her as if they were torn to shreds. Liu Xuan, who was about to go digging graves, froze in pure fear. He worried if in the next moment Yun Xiao would yank his woman out of nowhere!

    "Attack him!" Ye Tiance couldn''t take it any longer.

    "Sword Venerable Ye, are you losing your patience too? Please, I beg you not to!" Yun Xiao turned his gaze sharply at Ye Tiance. This unanticipated move sent chills up Ye Tiance''s spine, causing his body to shiver involuntarily. And sure enough! Yun Xiao had another chain in his hand.

    <i>Whoosh! </i>He yanked out another headless body from the woods below.

    "Venerable Ye, is this your woman? Not bad looking, except she''s headless." Yun Xiao swung the chain in mid-air, toying with the lifeless body.

    "My dear Fan!" The color drained from Ye Tiance''s face as waves of excruciating pain tore through his guts. His daughter and son were dead. He had dreams of having more children. But now, even his wife was gone!

    "I''d forgotten to mention," Yun Xiao began casually, "On the day I arrived at Azure Spirit, Yao Qingqian was in such a hurry to kill me, I just had to burn her too." A collective gasp followed his revtion.

    Everyone knew Yao Qingqian was Ye Tiance''s mistress! In that moment, he had lost his wife and his lover both.

    "No!" Ye Tiance roared in despair, but it did nothing to stop Yun Xiao, who tossed another lifeless woman into the mes of the Azure Spirit Cauldron.

    <i>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </i>The mesmerizing azure color of the me engulfed the body, reducing it to ashes.

    <i>SPUTTER!! </i>Ye Tiance clutched his chest, a stream of ckened blood seeping from his lips.

    "Lastly, I would like to inform you thatst night, the Third Sword Venerable, Wu Wu, tried to stop me from acquiring the thousand-year-old demon bone. He dispatched a demonic cultivator to assassinate me. Isn''t that insulting? It nearly killed me with anger. In return, I ughtered his entire family of ten-plus members." After delivering his dramatic revtion, Yun Xiao casually pped his hands.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The Sword Cultivators present felt as if they were struck by lightning. This incident had already stirred chaos in Azure Spirit. Everyone had their guesses brewing, Elder Fan too was under suspicion. But none had suspected Yun Xiao! How did he manage that?

    That said, this was no longer important. Every cultivator present, no matter their allegiance, gazed at Yun Xiao with fear-filled eyes.

    It was widely known that the quality of Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul was exceptionally high, possibly rivaling Ye Guying''s grade Sword Soul. His natural talent for swordsmanship was also unparalleled. But at this moment, what people found most terrifying were his other characteristics¡ªhis ruthlessness, his cold detachment, his greed, anger, and foolishness, and his propensity for revenge.

    This seemingly innocent and clear-eyed young man was capable of triggering an ocean of blood and a mountain of corpses. The First Sword Venerable wanted to push Zhao Jianxing to his death? Not under Yun Xiao''s watch!

    But Yun Xiao''s trump cards¡ªthe spirit ques, the corpses, and the revtions of Yao Qingqian and Wu Wu''s deaths had turned Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian into bloodshot walking zombies due to rage.

    Decimating their peace was a delight, but now Yun Xiao had burned even the bodies. He had no cards left to suppress Ye Tiance''s vengeful heart. This thought sent Shangguan Yu''s heart racing.

    Visibly, Ye Tiance had lost his sanity out of sheer rage!

    "What are you waiting for?" He red at Yao Manxue, Zhang Jian, and Liu Xuan.

    "Wash the Grand Hall in blood! Grind them to dust! Also..." Ye Tiance suddenly turned to face the hundreds of Sword Cultivators manipting the enormous cauldrons of demon feces and filthy blood, "Disciples trained by Zhao Jianxing have the audacity to kill even a Sword Venerable, and exterminate a family. If such atrocities are not punished, how can Azure Spirit im to uphold righteousness? Hear mymand! All of you, together... bury the Sword Pavilion under a flood of shit!"

    His three-pronged attack was all set to proceed!

    "Yes!" Those who acted were direct disciples of the three Sword Venerables. So, they obeyed without hesitation.

    On Ye Tiance''smand, Yao Manxue, Zhang Jian, Liu Xuan, and the wielders of the cauldrons moved in unison! Once again, the members of the Sword Pavilion fell into a panic.

    At this moment, everyone''s eyes unconsciously fell on Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun, what should we do?¡± Zhao Xuanran''s beautiful eyes quivered, her hands clenched tight. Always the leader, now in dire straits, she relied on this young man in white.

    ¡°Fear not, Senior Sister Zhao, I have a n!¡± Yun Xiao said his voice filled with immense resolve. His words brought a sudden tremble to Zhao Xuanran''s heart and moistened her eyes. This was the assurance she was waiting for. Despite her reddened eyes, her heart found unmatched calmness.

    "Wait a moment!¡± Faced with Ye Tiance¡¯s ferocious and desperate forces, Yun Xiao turned and dropped down, vanishing into the forest behind.

    ¡°Where is he going?¡± Zhang Jian''s eyes chilled as he immediately pursued! His Sword Cultivators from the Seventh Sword Peak charged toward the Grand Hall, their loyalty unyielding.

    Yao Manxue led her group, striking again towards Zhao Xuanran!

    Liu Xuan went to dig up the graves!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM!! </i>One by one, huge cauldrons filled with filthy blood, defiled corpses, and demon feces were lifted off the ground, dragged by those Sword Cultivators towards the sky above the Sword Pavilion!

    ¡°Zhao Jianxing, you just wait! I''ll drive you to an early grave!¡± Ye Tiance frowned, retreating to the furthest distance. He knew that before Zhao Jianxing died, the person he most wanted to kill would be him.

    Unfortunately, his eyes fixed forward, he didn''t see from afar behind him, someone wasing on a Sovereign Sword, reporting that the ancestral temple of the First Sword Peak had been raided by Yun Xiao.

    It couldn''t be helped. Yun Xiao''s speed far surpassed the Dragon Spring Realm! Even if he stopped by the Sixth Sword Peak and the Seventh Sword Peak, he would still return much earlier.

    ¡°It''s over!¡± Cai Maomao''s face turns bleak, ¡°Why did Junior Brother Yun waste the advantage just for a moment of satisfaction?¡± He also didn''t understand!

    Just at this bewildered moment, a burst of azure light suddenly rose into the sky, blocking the path of the massive cauldron army! White clothes, azure sword, it was Yun Xiao again!

    ¡°You young brat, you dare to block the way?¡± Zhang Jian caught up, about to snicker. Suddenly, he saw Yun Xiao soaring on his Sovereign Sword, with a long chain of dark things beneath his feet! Dragging from the sky, down to the ground!

    "W-what is that...? Zhang Jian focused his eyes for a better look! At the top there was an old man, his tongue severed, Dantian destroyed, covered in blood, his face pale as he wailed towards Zhang Jian.

    ¡°My father? Crippled!¡± Like being struck by lightning, Zhang Jian immediately spewed blood, his riding on the Sovereign Sword bing unstable, and he crashed into a tree.

    Sure enough, his eyes weren''t deceiving him. When Yun Xiao passed the Seventh Sword Peak, he incidentally crippled Zhang Jian''s father, the previous Seventh Sword Venerable.

    ¡°What?¡± Hearing themotion, Yao Manxue looked in that direction.

    ¡°Father, Mother!¡± Yao Manxue''s vision cked out as rage and blood rushed to her heart. She spewed three mouthfuls of blood and copsed to the ground. Below Zhang Jian''s father were her own parents! Tongues severed, and Dantians destroyed! Both were hanging in the sky, necks bound, tongues drooping, mouths foaming, nearly half-dead!

    And finally, there was Ye Tiance! His whole body trembled violently. He lifted his head, his eyeballs nearly popping out. His noble Ye Family, nearly a hundred members in total, all hung in the air in chains!

    ¡°All crippled...¡± Ye Tiance, overwhelmed by anger and blood rushing to his heart, felt a sickly sweetness in his throat, a mouthful of ck blood suddenly spurting out!

 Chapter 051 - Sword Pavilion Destroyed Within Three Days!

    <h4>Chapter 051 - Sword Pavilion Destroyed Within Three Days!</h4>

    A chain of Ye Family members was dangled from the heavens by Yun Xiao, whomanded his Sovereign Sword with supreme control. Every tongue severed! Every Dantian destroyed!

    Each face was a horrific mask of despair, their expressions filled with panic and struggle. When their eyes fell upon Ye Tiance and the other Sword Venerables, tears flooded down. They wailed and bemoaned their fate, their arms pointing towards Yun Xiao, their eyes revealing a thick venom of hatred.

    A chain of people was swaying in the sky!

    Every Sword Cultivator who looked up was dumbstruck, a chill crawling up their spine. "The entire Ye Family has been crippled!"

    For a moment, gasps of shock echoed through the air. People stared with strange expressions. They saw the three great Sword Venerables and their kin in the Divine Sea Realm, who were at their most arrogant and fierce moment, all struck down as if they''d been hit by lightning, their blood boiling in reverse, their faces a mask of agony and anger!

    "They came here all riled up, nning to humiliate the Sword Pavilion, to humiliate the Sect Master."

    "And yet Yun Xiao has annihted them all, how will they shame others now?"

    "Now, the First Sword Venerable is not only unable to shame others, but he''s also bleeding from every orifice..." On the side of the Sword Pavilion and others, faces were flooded with ecstatic joy.

    They were even more astounded by Yun Xiao''s decisiveness and ruthlessness.

    "I knew it! How could he be so foolish? Clearly holding the trump card and yet pretending to burn it?"

    "This little guy is truly devious."

    A woman in a ck gown bit her red lips, her eyes filled with a yful anger, truly at a loss whether tough or cry. Yun Xiao''s y left her heart flipping,pletely overturned.

    "Nobody move!" Yun Xiao flung the chain of people aside. Whether it was those who were demolishing the Grand Hall, those desecrating the graves, or those carrying the cauldrons, none dared to move!

    They were all dumbstruck, staring at Ye Tiance!

    Blood surged backwards from Ye Tiance¡¯s eyes, ears, mouth, and nose, showing his immense internal rage. "Yun Xiao!" These two words, he bit even harder, even more viciously! This was his most furious moment.

    However, it was also the moment he felt the most constrained, left in helpless rage. Everyone else was stupefied!

    ¡°Ye Tiance, may I ask, if all the males of a family are crippled, how can the noble Ye Family continue for a hundred generations? Do they need to borrow seed?¡± Yun Xiao asked with a cold, sardonicugh.

    ¡°You¡¯re so ruthless!¡± Only then did Ye Tiance see that, including his father, every Ye Family member below their Dantian was still bleeding.

    <i>Gurgle! </i>Another mouthful of ck blood surged to his mouth, bitter and thick, yet he forcibly swallowed it down, not daring to spit it out. If things keep up like this, he really would drop dead from rage even quicker than Zhao Jianxing!

    ¡°All crippled?¡±

    ¡°This kid... is truly ruthless! Absolutely ruthless!¡±

    ¡°In these three years, the lost souls of the Sword Pavilion can truly rest now upon seeing this!¡± Many hearts sighed in silence. Borrow seed? A good number of people broke intoughter. Needing to borrow seed, could they still be considered the noble Ye Family?

    In the crowd, those remaining Divine Sea Realm Sword Cultivators from the Ye Family gathered around Ye Tiance, their eyes filled with rage.

    "I swear I''ll kill him!"

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>In an instant, several Flying Swords, regardless of the death or life of their family, shot towards Yun Xiao.

    ¡°A sneak attack?¡± Yun Xiao coldly chuckled. His Sovereign Sword transformed into a Palm Sword. With a sudden sh, the twenty-twoyer Sword Aura erupted!

    <i>KLANG KLANG KLANG! </i>In the blink of an eye, a total of eight Flying Swords were shattered by a single stroke, exploding in midair.

    After destroying these Flying Swords, Yun Xiao nonchntly turned his sword back into a Sovereign Sword, stepping on it and continuing to drag the useless Ye Family members without dropping them.

    On the contrary, those who tried to ambush him had their Sword Souls shattered. Their bodies broke apart, eyes rolled back, mouths foamed, and they fell to the ground convulsing!

    These eight Divine Sea Realm Ye Family members were no different from the dead now!

    ¡°So strong!¡± the crowd eximed.

    ¡°How did this kid''s cultivation soar this much in a single day? What did he eat!?¡±

    ¡°His Sword Soul still hasn''t been tested yet, right? Do we know what quality it is?¡±

    ¡°But the quality of the Sword Soul and someone''s cultivation aren¡¯t directly rted!¡±

    Many hearts were filled with doubts.

    ¡°You little bastard! I''ll make your death more miserable than you can ever imagine!¡± Ye Tiance''s face became even more ferocious, seeing eight of his Divine Sea Realm kinsmen''s Sword Souls shattered on the spot.

    ¡°You¡¯re getting impatient again, are you? It¡¯s not over yet!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s words made hundreds of Sword Cultivators¡¯ hearts drop.

    More toe? They almost wanted to cry!

    ¡°Did I hear that you want the name of Ye Guying to shine in the night sky, illuminating the thousands of mundane nations?¡± Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, smirking coldly.

    ¡°You?¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s eyelids twitched.

    ¡°Look behind.¡± Yun Xiao pointed behind the mountain. At this moment, the Sword Souls from the First, Third, Sixth, and Seventh Sword Peaks rose into the sky!

    For a moment, the dim Azure Spirit sky was brilliantly illuminated. Multicolored sword rays shone across the firmament, like a cluster of stars shining, visible to even some mundane nations! The sword rays spelt on the name, ''Ye Guying!''

    In Ye Tiance¡¯s meticulous design, this was supposed to be a time of united celebration, a moment when his grand schemes would reach their fruition. Yet, there he stood, submerged in humiliation, choked with rage.

    "The shining of the Sword Soul at this very moment is pure irony!"

    "It¡¯s utterly disgraceful!"

    Many Sword Cultivators couldn''t help but voice their embarrassment. Indeed, it was a profound shame.

    "Wait, look!¡± Everyone raised their heads, and the characters shining across the firmament were not "Ye Guying''.

    It was actually ''Despicable Dog Ye Guying!''

    The words ''Despicable Dog Ye'' emanated from the direction of the First Sword Peak. Although somewhat dim, they were clearly visible to all, frommoners to cultivators.

    "Despicable Dog!"

    "This isn¡¯t glory for the ancestors, it''s an immense disgrace...¡±

    The words lingered, hovering brilliantly in the sky, refusing to disperse.

    "It''s the disciples from the First Sword Peak who did this!"

    Many faces met with shared shock.

    ¡°Ye Tiance''s heart must be shattering again!"

    Their eyes turned to him. As expected, a dark shadow veiled his face, fists clenched tight, blue veins threading his entire body.

    He was so furious he could die! What he found most intolerable was this scene had unveiled a bitter truth. Not everyone in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect bowed to his Ye Family! Even his First Sword Peak harbored many who would secretly uphold justice. The moment he fell, he would surely be shed to death in chaos!

    "Ye Tiance, you delve in treacherous schemes, colluding with demons to destroy the loyal, transgressing the moral boundaries of humanity! You aren¡¯t even fit to be a Sword Cultivator, let alone a leader!"

    "You think with the prosperity and tyranny of your Ye Family, you can control everything? The Azure Spirit Sword Sect has always defended humanity, its mission engraved in the hearts of people. Everything you see confirms this. A singr evil like you cannot suppress the path of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect!¡±

    "Here''s a word for you. Those who act unjustly will destroy themselves!¡±

    Zhao Xuanran stood in the night breeze, her long gown billowing, her vibrant voice, paired with the light of the Sword Souls from the disciples of the First Sword Peak, pierced the night, deafening to all.

    With her words, even the thousands of Divine Sea Realm Sword Cultivators lowered their heads in shame.

    "For three years, must we again bow our heads to such despicable people for the sake of survival, to aid tyranny?"

    "As Sword Cultivators, are we so powerless, faced with such a great humiliation?"

    They trembled internally, their eyes filled with despair. Ye Guying was not alone! Behind him now stood the most terrifying power from the Sea of Swords¡ªthe Forbidden Tower!

    The Forbidden Tower, a name whispered with dread, where mere mortals dared not tread. Though scant in number, each inhabitant was a dragon among swords, the epitome of talent and strength in the Sea of Swords. Most found their abode within this imposing tower.

    In Yun Xiao''s grasp, Ye Xuanying, the foster father of Ye Guying, quivered.

    How could this be? Their hearts boiled this fateful night, yet the suffocating shadow of defeat loomed unbowed.

    "Yun Xiao!" Ye Tiance, witnessing the unraveling scene, was driven to derangedughter by his fury. "Fine! You''ve proven your ruthlessness tonight. A young hero, aiding the Sword Pavilion and Zhao Jianxing, thwarting the tide of chaos! You are incredible!"

    Today''s expedition ended in failure. They would have to wait for Ye Guying.

    With a wave of his hand, Ye Tiance, his heart ravaged, his face a palette of purples and blues from suppressed rage, called a retreat. ¡°Leave!¡±

    He beckoned the throng of Sword Cultivators.

    ¡°Stop, who said you could leave?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s voice cut through the air, cold as frost.

    ¡°What more do you want?¡± Ye Tiance snarled, turning back in irritation.

    Yun Xiao, with a chillingugh, pointed to the massive cauldrons. ¡°The Seventh Sword Venerable spent two full hours preparing these vile things. To just drag them away would be such a waste, don¡¯t you think?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Zhang Jian, mocked and infuriated, gnashed his teeth.

    ¡°I mean for you to divide these items into four and pour them on the ancestral temples of your First, Third, Sixth, and Seventh Sword Peaks! If the younger generationmits evil, the ancestors are to me, as you have said!¡±

    Even Zhao Xuanran felt her legs go numb at Yun Xiao¡¯s audacious promation.

    ¡°Insolence!¡± The faces of Ye Tiance, Liu Xuan, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian twisted in rage as they red at Yun Xiao.

    "I¡¯m insolent?" Yun Xiao scoffed. "The insolent ones are you despicable beings who tarnish your ancestors!¡±

    ¡°Yun Xiao, don¡¯t push your luck!¡± Zhang Jian roared.

    "You''re Zhang Jian, right?¡± Yun Xiao nced at him. Swiftly seizing Zhang Jian¡¯s father, a sword swept through the air, decapitating the elder. With a coldugh, he kicked the head towards Zhang Jian. ¡°Your incessant babbling led to your father¡¯s death. Apologize to him quickly!¡±

    A collective gasp sliced through the crowd.

    ¡°Father!¡± Zhang Jian caught the severed head, the eyes still wide in shock. Spewing blood, his hands trembled as he clutched his father¡¯s lifeless head.

    ¡°How dare you!¡± Yao Manxue¡¯s face crumbled at the scene.

    ¡°You too have a lot to say, huh?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s cold gaze swept over her. With another swift motion, two more heads flew toward Yao Manxue.

    ¡°Father! Mother!¡± Catching a head in each hand, Yao Manxue staggered back, her eyes filled with blood, her form frozen in shock.

    ¡°My God.¡± Zhao Xuanran stared dumbfounded at Yun Xiao. The effortless killings left her stunned.

    ¡°A ruthless one, indeed!¡±

    ¡°A ruthless one is needed to deal with these despicable beings!¡±

    The crowd was abuzz withmotion, their voices a blend of awe and terror.

    ¡°These vile things were prepared by those three Sword Venerables, and they¡¯ve truly hit the pinnacle of wickedness! Junior Brother Yun, these disgusting things should be poured onto their ancestors¡¯ heads!¡± Cai Maomao''s eyes zed red as he shouted excitedly.

    At the fall of his words, Yun Xiao quivered fiercely, his hand holding almost a hundred members of the Ye Family. They all screamed in horror, weeping bitterly, their souls scattered as they stared at Ye Tiance.

    ¡°To pour or not to pour?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s patience was wearing thin. ¡°I¡¯ve no patience! Every extra word you utter, I¡¯ll kill one more! Let¡¯s see how many words your illustrious Ye Family can endure?¡±

    Swinging the people strung together, waste flew, screams filled the air. Among them was Ye Xuanying, the father of Ye Tiance and Ye Guying. He was now in Yun Xiao''s grasp.

    Pour or not? Ye Tiance¡¯s face turned utterly ck.

    ¡°Not speaking, eh?" With a sweep of his sword, several more bodies from the Ye Family flew towards Ye Tiance.

    The remaining people, including Ye Xuanying, all yelled towards Ye Tiance, begging, ¡°Pour it! Hurry, pour it! If not, there will really be no one left in the Ye Family!¡±

    In that moment, it felt like thousands of swords pierced Ye Tiance''s heart. His face turned ck as death, his body tinted purple, a quivering voice choked with blood urged, ¡°Pour!¡±

    With this exmation, he could no longer hold back a violent retch, spewing mouthfuls of ck blood. The moment the word left his lips, a wave of murmurs spread.

    ¡°Well, this is good. Zhao Jianxing didn¡¯t die from anger, but Ye Tiance cracked.¡±

    ¡°Not just Ye Tiance, even his ancestors beneath the ninth spring would be shamed!¡±

    The thousand Divine Sea Realm Sword Cultivators present looked from Ye Tiance to the young man in white, their hearts undergoing a tumultuous change.

    ¡°Ye Tiance, consider yourself knowledgeable. I won¡¯t torment you anymore. Once you¡¯ve poured it, I¡¯ll let your Ye Family go,¡± Yun Xiaoughed.

    ¡°You better keep your word!¡± Ye Tiance said.

    ¡°Of course! What are you standing there for, then? Move! Pour!¡± Riding his Sovereign Sword, Yun Xiao pressed down further, looking towards the Seventh Sword Venerable, ¡°We¡¯ll start with your, Zhang Jian¡¯s Seventh Sword Peak!¡±

    ¡°You insolent cur!¡± Zhang Jian, pointing at him, was trembling, his teeth nearly shattering.

    Yun Xiao lifted another member of the Ye Family, his sword pointing at their heart.

    ¡°Move!¡± Ye Tiance red at Zhang Jian.

    ¡°...Yes!¡± Zhang Jian¡¯s vision darkened, his heart dripping blood.

    Just as Ye Tiance had humiliated himself, hadn¡¯t he done the same? All these disgusting things were enthusiastically collected by him over two hours! Their own actions were digging their grave!

    <i>Hum! </i>At this moment, the thousand Divine Sea Realm Sword Cultivators could only be driven out of the Sword Pavilion by Yun Xiao, heading towards the Seventh Sword Peak.

    "Senior Zhao Sister, I''m off to enjoy the show, care to join?" Standing in the night breeze, Yun Xiao smilingly said to the woman in a ck skirt.

    "Hmm!" Under the moonlight, Zhao Xuanran paused, then quickly nodded, her beautiful eyes filled with warmth. She was about to witness it with her own eyes! She was about to have her vengeance sated!

    "Let''s watch together." Grandpa Qin said with a heartyugh, his eyes also filled with warm tears.

    "Grandpa, you can¡¯t even see." Qin Tong said.

    "Even if I can''t see, hearing the wails of those lowlives will be delightful!" Grandpa Qin proimed.

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao was herding a group of people!

    They followed Yun Xiao! The Sword Cultivators once again took to the skies, and in no time arrived in front of the ancestral temple on the Seventh Sword Peak.

    This ancestral temple only worshiped Zhang Jian¡¯s family, not the entire Seventh Sword Peak, so most of the elders of the Seventh Sword Peak felt it was okay.

    "No, no, no! Yun Xiao, let''s discuss this." By this point, Zhang Jian''s voice carried a hint of a crying tone. The dignified Seventh Sword Venerable was almost kneeling to Yun Xiao.

    However, Yun Xiao directly wrapped the chains around each of the Ye Family members'' necks, ready to strangle the entire family if anyone dared to move!

    Who would dare to move?

    "You reap what you sow, who else to me? I don''t harm people intentionally, but if you try to start messing with me, don''t be surprised when I pay it back tenfold!" After saying this, Yun Xiao''s cold eyes swept over the group of cauldron bearers.

    "Pour!"

    "No! Please no..." Zhang Jian, with his head knocking on the ground, protected the ancestral temple. The uglier his triumphantugh was earlier, the more tragic his situation now.

    ¡°Pour it on his head!¡± Yun Xiaomanded, stretching out a hand. All the Ye Family¡¯s eyes rolled back as they cried out in agony.

    ¡°Pour!¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s voice was miserable.

    <i>Crash! </i>The giant cauldron lids opened, and dozens of disgusting objects fell from the sky like a waterfall, instantly swallowing the peak with filth, blood, and demon feces. The stench instantly filled the air.

    ¡°Ah¡ª!¡± Zhang Jian, covered in filth, copsed on the ground. "M-my ancestors!" He got up to see the once resplendent pce now ckened and stinking. He immediately burst into howls of despair!

    "Hurry up, next!" Yun Xiao coldly ordered. Now it was the turn of the Sixth Sword Peak!

    "Lil Xue, we must endure today. We can¡¯t wait for Guying. Within three days, I will find someone, ensuring the Sword Pavilion will never recover!¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s vicious voice sounded like a demon.

    "It must be someone who can deal with Yun Xiao! Every single one in the Sword Pavilion will die horribly!"

    Yao Manxue¡¯s face almost rotted away today. Her husband had been killed, her parents as well, along with her brother and sister. When the filthy objects were dumped onto her family¡¯s ancestral temple, her insides decayed as well. Although she didn¡¯t cry out loud, the repression and anger within her were no less than that of Zhang Jian.

    Then came the First Sword Peak!

    Yun Xiao had wreaked havoc here before.

    Ye Tiance came over to see the ground before the ancestral temple littered with corpses¡ªall supporters of his and his family, all murdered again. The power of the First Sword Peak plummeted once more. After this massacre, those who remained were the ordinary Sword Cultivators who hardly supported Ye Tiance.

    <i>Ssh! </i>Thirty cauldrons of filthy blood, corpses, and demon excrement fell. The Ye Family''s ancestral temple was drowned in filth. They brought it upon themselves! Whoever humiliates others will be humiliated!

    Ye Tiance thought he could bear it. Yet, when the temple that should have been the new Hall of Heroes now stank to the heavens, bing and of filth, he couldn''t hold on any longer.

    "Ah!" Ye Tiance fell to his knees. "Ancestors above, Tiance is guilty. Within three days, if I do not destroy the Sword Pavilion and cripple Yun Xiao, I will present my head to you!" Kneeling in the muck, covered in filthy blood, he growled inwardly.

    "Yun Xiao! It¡¯s your turn to release the people!" Ye Tiance looked back at him coldly.

    "Release them? Did I say I would release them?" Yun Xiao turned to ask Zhao Xuanran.

    "I certainly didn¡¯t hear anything," Zhao Xuanran said with a wry smile. This scene, how simr was it to the time when Ye Tiance secretly opened the sword-sealing formation?

    Yun Xiao loved to treat others with their own methods! He looked towards Ye Tiance, and coldly smiled, "You are too naive. I have all these people, and wherever I go, whether I eat, sleep, cultivate, or flirt, they will apany me. You dare to touch a single hair of the Sword Pavilion, and I will make sure your entire Ye Family dies!"

 Chapter 052 - In This World, Only I Love You

    <h4>Chapter 052 - In This World, Only I Love You</h4>

    At these words, a collective gasp cut through the crowd, as though the chill night air had been drawn into every chest.

    The youth stood with a white robe flowing about him, an ethereal beauty marked on his countenance, as if a celestial being had graced the earth. But his temperament? It sure had character!

    Ye Tiance knew it all too well. The Eight Swords Conve, a forum for fierce dueling and intense debate. Just two days in, and he felt like this youth had already torn him to shreds from the inside out.

    ¡°Heh heh heh...¡± Ye Tiance clenched his fists, a wild and frenziedugh echoing through the night.

    "Yup, you senile old fart. Laugh your ass off!" Yun Xiao cursed. Expecting him to release someone? They must be dreaming a dream as grand as the ages!

    "There''s the Third Sword Peak still. Hurry up and pour, don¡¯t dy my return to the Sword Pavilion for moon viewing." Yun Xiao finished with a raised eyebrow and a smile to Ye Tiance, "I''m even dragging your dad along for my moon viewing. Generous, right?"

    Grinding his teeth, Ye Tiance chose silence. Elsewhere, Elder Liu Xuan of the Third Sword Peak had hoped they could evade this cmity. s, evasion was but a fleeting dream.

    "Elder Liu, rest assured, this filth will not tarnish your ancestors. Even though Wu Wu and his family are wiped out, I still have to send them some gifts on the road to the underworld!" Yun Xiao said with a grin.

    Upon hearing this, the crowd was stunned.

    "Pour pour pour!!" Now, all Liu Xuan wished for was a swift end to this matter, a chance to seek a solution. And so, therge crowd turned towards the final, Third Sword Peak. But this time, the direct followers of Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian stayed at the First Sword Peak and did not follow.

    "Bearing this great humiliation, they won''t wait for Ye Guying to return. They must be pondering some sick schemes," Zhao Xuanran said, riding a Sovereign Sword beside Yun Xiao against the night wind.

    "I know." Yun Xiao turned back, a cold light shing in his eyes. "Senior Sister Zhao, it''s not over yet!"

    "It¡¯s not over..." Zhao Xuanran¡¯s eyes solidified on the youth, her chest filled with turbulent waves. It¡¯s not over yet? Just after saying this, they reached the Third Sword Peak.

    <i>SPLASH!</i> The final dumping of waste was sent as a farewell gift for Wu Wu on the road to the underworld.

    ¡°His ancestors will surely reward him for receiving this generous gift!" Yun Xiao finallyughed, a pure and sunnyugh.

    "Pfft!" Zhao Xuanran stifled augh in amusement. At times he seemed cool and distant, other times mischievous like a child. Appearing indifferent, yet harboring a hatred for evil. Was he a graceful Sword Immortal wandering between heaven and earth or a heroic figure in the mundane world?

    In Zhao Xuanran¡¯s eyes, these two images perfectly ovepped in Yun Xiao. Or perhaps, the Creator Immortal and the mortal Yun Xiao perfectly merged into one.

    "Elder Liu!" After all the filth had been poured out, Yun Xiao''s voice suddenly rang out, calling that Liu Xuan.

    "What do you want?" Liu Xuan, taken aback, suddenly realized he was surrounded only by a little over a hundred Third Sword Peak elders, and none were standing by his side.

    This was normal. He was a temporary recement, unlike Wu Wu and Wu Yi, who had the backing of arge family. Now that the Third Sword Peak was in shambles, his authority was minimal, and he was merely seen as Ye Tiance''sckey.

    "What realm are you in, Elder Liu?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "I have reached the Perfect Divine Sea Realm, possessing four Divine Seas!" Liu Xuan dered through gritted teeth. Indeed, he was somewhat lesserpared to the three Sword Venerables. They, at the very least, had reached the Establishment Divine Sea Realm with five Divine Seas!

    "Perfect Divine Sea Realm?" Yun Xiao''s eyebrows lifted. He abruptly handed the chains in his hands to Zhao Xuanran and transformed into a white shadow, abruptly lunging at Liu Xuan.

    "Guards!" Liu Xuan roared. Just after his roar, he froze. No one came. All the Sword Cultivators from the Third Sword Peak, seeing Yun Xiao¡¯s move, had deliberately stepped aside.

    "Why?" Liu Xuan didn¡¯t understand.

    "Ye Tiance doesn''t have the people''s heart at the First Sword Peak. Do you think, as his dog, you couldmand here at the Third Sword Peak?"

    Yun Xiao¡¯s words sent shudders through Liu Xuan¡¯s heart. He panicked. All the humiliations of tonight, in truth, had nothing to do with him, so he hadn¡¯t felt the gut-wrenching agony like the three Sword Venerables. But, would Yun Xiao let go of someone involved in the desecration of graves?

    Yun Xiao wouldn''t spare anyone guilty! With a swift strike, he unleashed the Azure Lightning Crane! His Sword Soul was enveloped in the power of the Primordial Void Technique, and twenty-twoyers of fierce Sword Aura emanated from it. Even though he was only in the Mid Divine Sea Realm with only two Divine Seas, he surpassed Liu Xuan in magic power, Sword Soul, Sword Aura, and swordsmanship!

    Who could save Liu Xuan now?

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Blue electric snakes illuminated the night sky, instantly swooping onto Liu Xuan.

    Liu Xuan, furious, lifted his sword. "You will die under Ye Guying''s sword!"

    <i>KLANG KLANG KLANG! </i>His sword skills were not bad. He exchanged three strikes with Yun Xiao, quite adeptly. However, after three strikes, his Sword Soul immediately shattered, and Yun Xiao''s azure sword pierced through.

    <i>SPLATTER!</i> In a fluttering of white robes, a sword thrust through the throat.

    "Ugh..." Liu Xuan¡¯s eyes bulged as he slumped to the ground, lifeless. The elders of the Third Peak of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect shrunk back, their faces horrified as they stared wide-eyed at Yun Xiao.

    "Good evening, everyone!" Yun Xiao bowed politely and sheathed his sword.

    "Yes, yes," the elders stammered, a mix of emotions in their eyes.

    "I hope the next one to stand from Third Sword Peak will not be anotherpdog of Ye Tiance," Yun Xiao dered. He returned to the side of the woman in ck and took the chains from her hands. From this moment on, all four peaks stank horribly. Yet, in the Sword Pavilion, under the sparse starlight, a pure and clear north wind blew.

    In front of the ancestral temple, the three Sword Venerables were torn with grief. Inside the Grand Hall, a smile appeared on the lips of a man in azure robes. All of this was Yun Xiao''s doing.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, our revelry was cut shortst night. Surely tonight, we can make up for it?" Yun Xiao whispered with a lightugh. Under the moonlight, Zhao Xuanran''s long hair brushed her cheek, a sudden flush painting her face red.

    "There¡¯s something I haven¡¯t asked you yet, Junior Brother Yun," she bit her lip lightly, a teasing look in her eyes.

    "Go ahead..." Yun Xiao suddenly had a bad premonition.

    "What¡¯s the deal with Ye Ziyan?" When Zhao Xuanran said this name, her words were like calm water hiding a turbulent undercurrent.

    "Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao looked at her, asking, ¡°If a phoenix was in front of you under the moon, would you look at a chicken instead?¡±

    Zhao Xuanran was slightly stunned, then a smile curled on her lips. With this phrase, he had hit the nail on the head. The atmosphere was set.

    ¡°No!¡± Cai Maomao suddenly cut in between them, his eyes wide. ¡°Why do I feel like you two are hiding something from me?¡±

    ¡°Cai Maomao, you big fool! Can''t you read the mood!? Your blockheadedness is truly higher than the Divine Pir!¡± Qin Tong quickly dragged him away, her face red with embarrassment.

    ¡°Is there drama?¡± Chen Dong and Li Chenlong looked at each other, frozen.

    ¡°There is drama,¡± Shangguan Yu affirmed.

    ¡°And Ye Guying...¡±

    The three suddenly felt that when that guy returned, it would surely be a bloodbath. As for Jiang Yue, she had long been forgotten.

    "Junior Brother Yun," in the chilly night wind, Zhao Xuanran looked towards the direction of the First Peak, "After tonight¡¯s defeat, Ye Tiance will not let things rest..."

    ¡°After tonight, do they have the luxury of waiting nine days for Ye Guying to return?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Hmm!¡± Aside from them, anyone who heard this name had deep worry in their eyes. Yun Xiao, however, was calmly self-assured.

    ¡°By the time hees back, the yellow flowers will have wilted!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a realm of darkness and confinement, a door stood as the lone sentinel against the oppressive ck. Its surface writhed with ck snake-like runes, numbering in the tens of thousands, emitting a bizarre, cold light as they twisted and squirmed. Before this foreboding entrance, a young man d in ck robes stood resolute. His eyes, as dark as the abyss, were alight with excitement and anticipation as he beheld the door.

    "Enter this door, and in ten days, I''ll ascend the heavens and earth! How many cultivators dream of such an opportunity?" he murmured, a wild glint growing in his eyes.

    He could hardly believe his fortune. Lowering his gaze to the Dantian within himself, where it seemed nine golden divine dragons resided, their roars sent waves of powerful energy throughout his being. This awakened Nine Dragons Dantian had catapulted him to heights within the boundless Sea of Swords.

    Thoughts of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Sword Pavilion, and Yun Xiao rushed to his mind, and an odd light swirled in his eyes. A hurried message from Fan Jing had spoken of ad¡¯s Sword Soul potentially being at the grade. This same youth had left Jiang Yue in a miserable state.

    Amusement danced in his eyes. "Upon my return in ten days, I must see what lies beneath your skin," Ye Guying whispered with impatience coloring his words.

    His journeyy in the boundless Sea of Swords, but his heart remained tethered to the Azure Spirit, where Zhao Xuanran resided.

    "Zhao Xuanran, after seeing the arrogant daughters of noble families in the Sea of Swords, I¡¯ve found you possess more vor. Is this the mischief of a first love that went unacquired?" he mused with a chuckle.

    Three years prior, a chance to marry her had slipped through his fingers due to a major n. No regrets dwelt within Ye Guying, for without the destruction of the Sword Pavilion, his present self would not exist.

    "Upon my return, I will no longer be the adopted son of the Ye family, but a genius of the Forbidden Tower within the Sea of Swords. Surely then, a proud and indifferentdy like you should lower your haughty head to me?"

    His eyes burned with desire as they fixed upon the dark door before him, a lifelong dream almost within grasp. His lowly status as an adopted son and her lofty position as a Sect Master¡¯s daughter fueled his ambition. The yearnings of childhood were not so easily forgotten.

    The day had finally arrived!

    "Time to break the door and celebrate," he said, his voiceced with mirth as he moved toward the door.

    "My foster father has been kind to me. He¡¯s growing old. Before I return, I will obtain an Origin Pill for him. It could at least prolong his life for ten more years!"

    The future looked bright, and Ye Guying eagerly awaited his return.

    With a determined nce and gritted teeth, he stepped into the ck door...

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Amidst the mountains of Azure Spirit, therey a rarely traversed area known as the Misty Valley. Though the Azure Spirit was abuzz that night, an exceptional silence nketed the valley. Thick mists obscured vision, cries of ghosts and howls of wolves filled the air, and dark shadows loomed menacingly, making it a fearsome ce that ordinary Sword Cultivators dared not approach at night.

    And yet, at that moment, a girl, clothes tattered, eyes stained with blood, and body marred with wounds, stumbled into the valley, her steps clumsy and faltering.

    "Senior Brother Ye, where are you? Please save me!" Her cries echoed, filled with boundless sorrow. No one had spoken to her since she came down from the Conve Mountain today. Like a forsaken child, she was shunned, her previous glory forgotten. Just a day ago, she was the celebrated genius of the Immortal Path, the center of everyone¡¯s admiration. How quickly the warmth of the world could turn cold!

    No one offered her pills to heal her wounds. Noforting words or ttery graced her ears. People who once sought herpany now avoided her gaze, whispering and jeering as she passed by.

    "This woman, she really put on a show just two days ago!"

    "Yun Xiao unmasked her with just one blow."

    "Lower Comet grade? Ha, hrious!"

    Their words, like sharp swords, pierced her through and through, leaving her soul riddled with wounds.

    In her despair, she saw nothing. The world around her was draped in darkness, filled with the whispers of unseen spirits. Though she walked through a forest, it felt as if countless soft, furry creatures brushed against her, their touch a brief respite from her agony.

    "Senior Brother Ye, is that you?" Jiang Yue asked, her eyes opening wide. "They all are so cruel to me. You said you would take me soaring on the Immortal Path. You are a million times stronger than Yun Xiao, you will surelye to save me..."

    Jiang Yue, teary and deste, mbered through the woods, her delicate skin marred by rocks and branches, her face bruised and bloody. Yet in her agony, she felt no pain. Soft fur caressed her wounds and eyes, and amidst her ck despair, a soft pink light appeared.

    "Senior Brother Ye!" Like a madwoman, she stumbled and rolled towards the light, her tears mingling with her blood as they cascaded down her face.

    "Come,e..." A voice, soft as silk and sweet as honey, echoed in her ears, a luring whisper promising love and adoration from the world''s men as a balm to her shattered spirit.

    "Moon Fairy..." Kneeling amidst the forest''s embrace, Jiang Yue reached out, her eyes zed with longing.

    Under the enchanting moonlight, a beautiful pink fox emerged from the mist, its fur absorbing the lunar glow and emitting a lustrous pearl-like sheen. It turned, revealing a human-like beguiling smile, a spectral beauty bathed in moonlight, herughter echoing like a haunting luby.

    The world melted away as the fox transformed into a breathtaking woman, her allure a mix of youthful innocence and deep, dark desire. Her bare feet gently touched the ground before Jiang Yue, herughter strange and ethereal.

    "My dear Jiang Yue... In this world, only I love you." As she spoke, she tore open Jiang Yue''s face, revealing flesh, bone, and marrow. She transformed into a pink mist, seeping into the opened wound. Amid the tumult of night, despair, and enchantment, a new entity was birthed in the embrace of the moon''s tender glow.

 Chapter 053 - First Sword of Azure Spirit!

    <h4>Chapter 053 - First Sword of Azure Spirit!</h4>

    Bathed in the glow of moonlight, a mist of pink hues all flowed into Jiang Yue''s body. For a moment, the many wounds on her skin and face began to heal, even the traces of blood were absorbed back. Two chilling rays of pinkish-white light shot from her eyes, making her appearance in the dense forest exceptionally eerie.

    "Hehe..." She hooked up the corners of her mouth slightly, her voice both sad and cold.

    "Moon Fairy!" Suddenly, a deep and stern shout echoed. A man with a grim face and eyes like a hawk stepped into the forest, instantly locking onto the fog-enshrouded Jiang Yue.

    "Ma... Master, save me." Jiang Yue''s eyes were somewhat nk as she trembled, stretching her hand forward, her expression agonized, as if drowning in a sea of suffering. Upon seeing Ye Tiance, she struggled, wanting to move towards him.

    However, Ye Tiance frowned at her, retreating a few steps backward! That kind of respectful yet distant look sent her plummeting into hell. In her despair, her face twisted, tears swelling in her eyes. But following that, the same cold light flowed from her eyes as she slightly hooked up her lips, looking at Ye Tiance with a charming smile.

    "Moon Fairy, she is my disciple!" Ye Tiance stared at her, gritting his teeth.

    "Do you care about her?" <i>Jiang Yue</i> asked with a tenderugh.

    Ye Tiance fell silent.

    "All your direct disciples are dead, it doesn''t make a difference with this one." Jiang Yue lowered her head, looking at her own body and softlyughed, "Young people are really good, with robust vitality and strong resentment, they are the best for demon puppetry."

    "Don¡¯t be too arrogant, Moon Fairy, times have changed." Ye Tiance said in a deep voice.

    "Hehe..." Jiang Yue slowly floated to Ye Tiance¡¯s side, a refreshing, captivating fragrance emanated from her. Even without looking, one would feel dizzy in her presence, as though surrounded by a myriad of enchanting birds.

    Ye Tiance gritted his teeth, decisively closing his eyes.

    ¡°Are you trying to scare me with Ye Guying?¡± Jiang Yue whispered in his ear, a haze of pink-white mist spreading towards Ye Tiance.

    "Just a reminder." Ye Tiance¡¯s voice was icy cold.

    "Do I need it? Thanks to you all, if the deeds I''ve done across the thousand mortal nations are leaked, his reputation in the Sea of Swords will also be tarnished." Jiang Yue shrugged, ¡°Those are many souls of infants fallen into the demon''s mouth...¡±

    ¡°You!¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s eyebrows shot up.

    ¡°We are both on the same path, mutual benefit. You use my n¡¯s Demon Core as a Sword Ring, and I don¡¯t mind, why do you have to put on an act in front of me?¡± Jiang Yue softlyughed, ¡°The path to bing an Immortal is about seizing the creation of heaven and earth. Humans can be Human Immortals, demons can be Demon Immortals, different paths lead to the same goal, why the pretense of virtue?¡±

    Ye Tiance fell silent, while Jiang Yue extended her jade-like hand, gently patting his chest, saying, ¡°Rest assured and tell Ye Guying. Although I am a demon, I never betray friends. He can safely cultivate the great Dao with me, but if he wants to destroy me and clear his name... I have ways to make him lose both name and fame!¡±

    ¡°Given his current status, he probably can¡¯t withstand your threats.¡± Ye Tiance coldly said.

    ¡°This isn¡¯t a threat, but showing weakness.¡± Jiang Yue''s smile was strange, ¡°I heard tonight, your ancestor was doused in filth?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I want to talk about.¡± Ye Tiance stared at her, killing intent emerging in his eyes, ¡°My ancestor was insulted, I can''t wait ten days. There are too many strange things about Yun Xiao, even in ten days, I fear changes will ur, letting him bring out a method to break the situation.¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t wait even ten days? It seems this young man really scared you.¡± Jiang Yue sneered.

    ¡°Don¡¯t say you''re not interested, such a young and vigorous beauty is not exactly your favorite? If you do not want to get close to him, why upy the body of my disciple?¡± Ye Tiance coldly smiled at her.

    Jiang Yue rolled her eyes at him, filled with yful annoyance.

    Ye Tiance had seen right through her!

    "Fine, I¡¯ll let <i>them</i>e." In Jiang Yue¡¯s eyes, desire surged.

    "<i>Them</i>?!" Ye Tiance gritted his teeth. "Azure Spirit is the realm of righteousness!"

    "Do you consider yourself a man of righteousness?" Jiang Yue sneered.

    Ye Tiance was taken aback! After a moment, he said, "Alright! Yun Xiao controls my family. Your kind excels in beguiling and bewildering, the first step is to save them. As long as my people are rescued, do as you please afterward. Just ensure two things... first, Yun Xiao must not die, and second, Zhao Xuanran must remain unharmed!"

    "Unharmed?" Jiang Yue chuckled, "Ye Guying really is infatuated, still concerned?"

    "Mind your own business," Ye Tiance said.

    "Fine." Jiang Yue gazed towards the direction of Sword Pavilion, her eyes filled with desire. "That young man¡¯s Dantian seems to possess a Dao Seed Talent.¡±

    ¡°A Dao Seed Talent? Like you and Guying?¡± Ye Tiance was slightly startled.

    "The same kind, but far more inferior," Jiang Yue gentlyughed. ¡°But through the contour of his pants, his unique talent is visible! Stout as an ox or tiger, robust as a dragon or elephant! A true giant among men!¡±

    ''..." Ye Tiance was at a loss for words.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Sword Pavilion, Grand Hall!

    "Elder Brother."

    "Sect Master."

    Chen Dong, Li Chenlong, and Shangguan Yu, the three Sword Venerables, solemnly bowed.

    ¡°Tonight''s incident was earth-shaking. The Sword Pavilion should have fallen into the abyss, our ancestors shamed. Fortunately, disciple Yun Xiao used his wit to avenge our humiliation," Shangguan Yu finished, ncing at the young man standing in white by the doorway.

    The young man, calm and natural, looked ethereal. It was hard to believe that beneath that divine countenance,y a brave and resolute desperado with a fiery temper.

    The discrepancy between character and appearance was too great. Yet the three Sword Venerables could not deny, such a man held more charm, for he was a genuine mortal swordsman, with a sword and rage in his chest, plunged into the mortal world, greedy, wrathful, and foolish! Not some heavenly Immortal detached from the world.

    "Yun Xiao is not weaker than Ye Guying." Shangguan Yu¡¯s tone was serious, addressing the man sitting in azure robes in front of her.

    The man in azure robes rxed his face, a slight smile on his lips.

    Seeing him this way, Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes reddened slightly.

    "Elder Brother! Chen Dong is ashamed!"

    "So am I!"

    Chen Dong and Li Chenlong knelt before the man with a thud.

    "Uncle Chen, Uncle Li, get up...." Zhao Xuanran hurriedly helped them up, saying, ¡°He has never med you.¡±

    ¡°This is it!¡± Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes zed. ¡°Both of you, rather than holding guilt, should return to your Sword Peaks, admit the truth of three years ago, and expose Ye Tiance¡¯s ugliness to the world!¡±

    Before, it was secretly transmitted, but no one dared to speak publicly... The truth about who was at fault for the tragedy at Dark Abyss Mountain and the Bluedrop g? The Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, still shamed, unable to return home!

    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Chen Dong and Li Chenlong hesitated no more. They rose, determination painting their every movement, and left.

    "Xuanran." At the doorway, Shangguan Yu turned back, addressing Zhao Xuanran, ¡°Protect Yun Xiao well. With him, the Sword Pavilion will never fall!¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Zhao Xuanran gazed at the young man in white, nodding deeply.

    ¡°You may pass on to him the First Sword of Azure Spirit,¡± Shangguan Yu said.

    ¡°Mhm!¡± Zhao Xuanran nodded yet again.

    Only then did the three Sword Venerables depart.

    "The First Sword of Azure Spirit? Is it a sword technique?" Yun Xiao''s heart fluttered as he turned to thedy in a ck gown before him.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Zhao Xuanran confirmed.

    ¡°How high a level of technique is this?¡±

    ¡°Moon grade!¡±

    "Wow." Yun Xiao had heard tales. Within the entire Azure Spirit Sword Sect, only one sword technique had reached the Moon grade, originating from the Sword Pavilion itself. This technique, passed down for hundreds of years, was practiced by consecutive Sect Masters and their disciples, ying countless demons and achieving myriad merits. Ye Tiance had also coveted this sword technique!

    ¡°Rest for today. You are tired. Refill your spirit, and early tomorrow I will teach you,¡± Zhao Xuanran advised.

    ¡°I am not tired, robust as a dragon or tiger, still able to enjoy more,¡± Yun Xiao countered.

    ¡°Rest!¡± Zhao Xuanran red at him.

    ¡°Yes...!¡± With Zhao Xuanran turning fierce, surely there would be no more Daughter''s Red for him.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze shifted to the man in azure robes, asking, ¡°Senior Sister Zhao, is there something in this world that can restore someone''s Sword Soul?¡±

    ¡°The Sea of Swords might have it.¡± Sister Zhao paused slightly, then inquired, ¡°Do you wish to contend for it?¡±

    ¡°I do!¡± Yun Xiao dered.

    ¡°Pardon my bluntness. Although you share a master-disciple title, he has never guided you. You owe him nothing. All that you have done today, he is already immensely grateful for.¡± Zhao Xuanran gently shook her head.

    Yun Xiao grinned. ¡°In my life, I act only on my desires. I do what I want and avoid what I don¡¯t, never questioning the reason.¡± He spoke with such unburdened freedom!

    ¡°Besides, aren¡¯t you passing on the First Sword of Azure Spirit to me tomorrow? With the Sect Master unavable, you, my senior sister, stand in his stead. Your teaching is also a grace,¡± Yun Xiao noted.

    Zhao Xuanran looked at him for a long while in silence. "Ye Tiance is in the Origin Core Realm!" she suddenly said.

    Dragon Spring, Divine Sea, Origin Core¡ªsuch were the realms of cultivation in this world. In other worlds, the counterparts might be Qi Condensation, Foundation Establishment, and Core Formation.

    "Is he very strong?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    ¡°Stronger than me, stronger than the other Sword Venerables!¡± Zhao Xuanran slightly bowed her head.

    ¡°Anything else?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°He has twenty-fouryers of Sword Aura, an Upper Comet grade Sword Soul, and a Sword Ring!¡± Zhao Xuanran exined.

    ¡°Sword Ring? What is that?¡± Yun Xiao was confused.

 Chapter 054 - White Robes Gifted by a Beauty

    <h4>Chapter 054 - White Robes Gifted by a Beauty</h4>

    "In this world, great demons with a millennium of cultivation can form a Demon Core, equivalent to an Origin Core," Zhao Xuanran began, her voice a murmur amidst the whispering winds. "y the demon, seize its core, and embed it within the Sword Soul to form a ring-shaped aura, known as the Sword Ring."

    "The Sword Ring enhances the Sword Soul''s lethality and imbues it with demon magic''" she continued.

    "Demon magic?" Yun Xiao blinked in confusion, his brow furrowing like a plowed field.

    "For example, the current Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds is a fox, adept in illusionary demon magic. If you y it and seize its thousand-year-old Demon Core, embedding it into your Sword Soul, your sword will carry a hint of illusionary attributes when it strikes, as ifyering demon magic upon each thrust," Zhao Xuanran exined, her words flowing like a gentle stream.

    "So besides the Sword Soul grade and Sword Aura, the Sword Ring is the third factor determining the Sword Soul¡¯s killing power?" Yun Xiao''s eyes lit up with understanding, like stars breaking through the clouded night sky.

    "Exactly! The power of the Sword Ring firstly depends on the Demon Core''s cultivation years and secondly on the number of Sword Rings. And the number of Sword Rings that can be socketed is innate, also rted to the grade of the Sword Soul," Zhao Xuanran borated, her words painting a vivid picture before Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    "How so?"

    "Sword Souls at the Comet grade or below can only be embedded with one Demon Core, forming one Sword Ring. Apparently, Moon and grade Sword Souls can be embedded with two Demon Cores, forming two Sword Rings and carrying two kinds of demon magic," Zhao Xuanranid out, her voice steady and reassuring.

    "And once a Demon Core is embedded, it cannot be changed for a lifetime?" Yun Xiao asked with a child¡¯s curiosity.

    "No, a Demon Core can be taken out and reced with a better, stronger one at any time," Zhao Xuanran patiently exined.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded. He still had no idea about the grade of his Heaven Burial Sword Soul. It seemed to grow as he absorbed demon bones and Sword Souls, continuously evolving like a tree reaching for the heavens.

    "Ye Guying''s Upper Comet grade Sword Soul evolved into a Mid grade Sword Soul because of the Rank Ten Azure Kite, showing that the evolution and enhancement of the Sword Soul, although rare, is still possible," Yun Xiao mused aloud.

    "While Ye Guying¡¯s Sword Soul evolved once, mine is different. My Sword Soul is not just increasing in Sword Aura. Its grade should be continuously improving!¡± Yun Xiao mused.

    Sword Aura could be seen, but the grade was something intangible.

    "If I get my hands on some Demon Cores in the future, I wonder how many can be embedded to form Sword Rings?" Yun Xiao wondered.

    Demon bones and Demon Cores! Back when Yun Xiao was the mortal emperor of the Cloud Nation, what he despised the most was demons! Viins could be executed, but crafty demons were difficult to extinguish. They blended into society, devoured living infants and bewitched the masses, bringing about untold cmities.

    The Immortals did nothing about this! Even if they tried, their hands were tied anyway. Having witnessed the misery of countless citizens, even now as a Sword Cultivator, beyond the mundane world, the impotent hatred still simmered in Yun Xiao''s chest like a never-ending ze. A straightforward man like him carried the unwarranted me of harboring demons that harmed the people, a stain that still sullied his ancestors¡¯ name, a shame unscrubbed.

    How could Yun Xiao not burn with a fierce fire, yearning to bring those two heads back to Cloud Nation to ount for the tragic deaths of its citizens? How could he forsake his Yun ancestors who founded the country?

    Yun Xiao was a mortal! His thoughts were simple. Demons, and those who consorted with them, would all die!

    "Senior Sister Zhao, do you know why I am willing to fight for the Sword Pavilion?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked earnestly, his voice echoing like a resonant bell in the silence.

    "Why? Tell me," Zhao Xuanran said softly.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze turned decisively towards the man in azure robes, "He''s why. A man like him who''s forged ahead in the same path as me.... He''s someone I''m willing to die alongside!" A man who''d in tens of thousands of demons and returned with a shattered sword!

    Yun Xiao admired the Sect Master! A lord was open and upright, while the petty were always filled with anxiety! In life, one should not seek endless wealth, but a clear conscience!

    Yun Xiao''s resolve set a fierce fire in Zhao Xuanran''s eyes, zing in her heart.

    "Mhm!" She nodded gently and said, "I see, go rest."

    "So that''s it! I thought Creator was just desperate to get into her panties again!!" Red Moon whispered sneakily.

    "Nonono, that is his real purpose. The words he said were all to crush the prey''s inner defenses. To sow seeds, you must first break the defenses! Understand?" Blue Star said seriously.

    "Wow, that''s pretty high level!" Red Moon admired.

    Yun Xiao was left baffled and speechless by the little ck creature''s exchange with itself. Then he shook his head. "Forget it. I''ll rest first, then practice the sword tomorrow!"

    A gentle breeze caressed the bright moon. The radiant moonlight bathed the great river. Among the Sword Pavilion¡¯s mountains and rivers, the first hints of cloud and mist were born, filled with an upright and stern aura.

    The Azure Spirit Cauldron stood firmly in front of the Grand Hall, absorbing the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, taking the divine light of the sun and the moon, and forging the Sword Pavilion into an immortalndscape, with green mountains and clear waters, pure and natural.

    On the contrary, the First, Third, Sixth, and Seventh Sword Peaks were surrounded by a foul stench, drowned in filth, with evil smells enveloping them! A night of dark tides surged!

    That night, news of Yun Xiao brutally suppressing the three great Sword Venerables spread throughout Azure Spirit, shaking people''s hearts. Others secretly spread the truth from three years ago! For a time, everyone examined their hearts.

    ¡°The sword is straight and upright, it would rather break than bend!¡±

    "We Sword Cultivators control the heavens with a three-foot sword, how can we bow our heads to treachery, kneeling for glory and wealth?"

    "Azure Spirit is a Sword Tomb, not a Demon Lair!"

    In this vast world, who would stand for justice?

    Yun Xiao slept. In his dream, he returned to the Cloud Nation, standing atop the pce walls, gazing upon the earthly realm where demons roamed free. "If I don¡¯t y the evil across thends in this life, I might as well scatter my soul and spirit!" Having been given a second life, he intended to overturn the heavens! Otherwise, it''s a life lived in vain!

    The next day he woke up, morning mist condensed into droplets, enveloping his body. A burst of delicate fragrance surrounded him. Yun Xiao opened his eyes, and a woman in a ck gown, her skin as white as snow, sat beside him. Her long hair fluttered in the wind, lightly brushing the world.

    Yun Xiao awoke to see a hand extending a white robe toward him. "Your clothes are stained with too much blood. Change into this," she said with a soft insistence.

    "Ah." epting the garment, Yun Xiao noticed its softness and the lingering fragrance it held.

    "Junior Brother Yun, this was personally made by Senior Sister Zhao, who spent the entire night on it!" Qin Tong called from a distance, her face filled with mischief.

    "Go away!" Zhao Xuanran scolded, her face stern.

    "Made personally?" Yun Xiao felt the fabric, sensing an unusual warmth in it. Even in the mortal imperial pce, no one had ever crafted clothing just for him.

    "Those who cultivate the sword maintain pure hearts and few desires. We don¡¯t have much, and the material isn''t of high quality. Please bear with it," Zhao Xuanran said, humble in her offering.

    But inside, Yun Xiao wondered why Ye Tiance and the others wore such luxurious clothes, glittering with pearls and gems. Still, he had never imagined that in this lifetime, someone would make clothes just for him. Every stitch carried warmth. The world indeed had its beauties!

    "Do you like it?" Zhao Xuanran asked, her gaze distant, her voice indifferent yet expectant. Silence fell, and no answer came. Turning, she was surprised to see the young man already unting the white robe in front of others.

    "This little rascal..." Augh escaped her lips. Did he like it? The beaming smile on Yun Xiao''s face told her everything.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, does it look good?" The youth stood before her, turning in circles, a grin lighting his face.

    "You¡¯re young and handsome. Even the simplest clothes appear like robes of gold and jade on you," Zhao Xuanran praised.

    Recalling his own words on the way to the Sword Cloud Walk, Yun Xiao said seriously, "Then I¡¯ll change back!"

    "Why change?" Zhao Xuanran asked, an eyebrow raised in question.

    "I want to keep it," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Wear it! No hiding it away," Zhao Xuanran said, a mix ofughter and tears in her voice.

    "I fight every day. What if it gets torn or stained with blood?" Yun Xiao, unwilling to let harme to the robe, protested.

    "I¡¯ll make you a new one!" Without a second thought, Zhao Xuanran answered.

    "Really?" Yun Xiao''s eyes brightened.

    "Of course," Zhao Xuanran affirmed.

    "That¡¯s exactly what I was waiting to hear!" Yun Xiaoughed.

    Zhao Xuanran only sighed. This child really knew how to wear one down!

    The Creator Immortal? No! Yun Xiao was but a young man who had lost his parents early, ruling and pacifying the world alone. Any affection from the human world was precious to him. So indeed, he cherished this white robe beyond measure. In his eyes, no treasure of heaven and earth could match its worth. He was as happy as a child. Of course, being only sixteen, his youthful vigor was at its peak.

    "Cultivate the sword," Zhao Xuanran said, pulling out a thick, ancient blue-covered book. This was the First Sword of Azure Spirit.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, does it include techniques for the Flying Sword, Palm Sword, and Sovereign Sword?" Yun Xiao leaned in to ask.

    "Hmm." Zhao Xuanran nodded, flipping open the first page. "I will take you through the overview, the chants, and the key points, then demonstrate for you."

    "Thank you, Senior Sister Zhao," Yun Xiao said.

    Zhao Xuanran sat on the edge of a cliff, and Yun Xiao leaned beside her like a pair of studious siblings.

    "What does it say here?" Yun Xiao''s gaze fell upon the page, seeing numerous different handwritings left there.

    "These are the names of those who have mastered this sword technique, left on this sword manual," Zhao Xuanran exined.

    "What interesting names!" Yun Xiaoughed. Written on the page were names like ''Qing Cheng the Wise,'' ''Zhao Yuan the Handsome,'' and ''Beautiful as a flower, Qingzi.'' They didn''t just leave names, they even added titles!

    "If you can master it, you can also leave your name there," Zhao Xuanran said.

    "Then I thought about what to leave!" Yun Xiao dered.

    "What will it be?" Zhao Xuanran curiously asked.

    "I won''t tell you. What if I fail to learn it?" Yun Xiao said seriously.

    "Of course, this is a Moon grade sword technique. It''s quite difficult. Look, a total of fifty-two pages," Zhao Xuanran earnestly said.

    "Then you have learned it, right?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Of course, otherwise how could I teach you?" Zhao Xuanran replied.

    "But, why don''t I see your name?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Are you silly? I''m the youngest, of course, I''m thest one," Zhao Xuanran said.

    "Thest?"

    Yun Xiao looked down.

    "Snowchild? That''s you?" Yun Xiao asked with a strange expression.

    "Yeah, I was born on a day when a lot of snow fell on Azure Spirit, so Snowchild is my nickname," Zhao Xuanran said.

    "Ah this!" Yun Xiao''s face grew more peculiar.

    "What''s with that expression?" Zhao Xuanran asked, confused.

    "Senior Senior Zhao, did you write this yourself... "Milky White Snowchild?" Yun Xiao uttered these words, his teeth trembling.

    "Is there a problem? Back then, I got pretty tanned from all the sword training I did every day. So, I made a wish to have my skin be white again," Zhao Xuanran said, dead serious.

    "Uhh..." Yun Xiao¡¯s expression was still weird.

    "What are you thinking?" Zhao Xuanran asked, exasperated.

    "Cough, cough!" Yun Xiao coughed, nced at her again, his gaze moving down, fixed on that streak of snow-white skin. He slowly said: "Well you know, a lot of things are milky white..."

 Chapter 055 - Ten-Step Scale

    <h4>Chapter 055 - Ten-Step Scale</h4>

    "What else is white...?" Zhao Xuanran grabbed the sword manual, fixing her eyes on her own signature! "S-snow white... Ah!" Realization struck, her mind exploded in an uproar. <i>SMACK SMACK SMACK! </i>Flushed with embarrassment and anger, she first used the sword manual to hit Yun Xiao on the head three times, then she tried to tear off the page with her name on it.

    In the breeze, this beauty in a ck gown blushed, biting her red lips, her eyes ring at Yun Xiao, both infuriated to turbulent degrees and embarrassed to the point of doubting her life. The nickname under her jade finger, its meaning could never be the same again!

    Thinking of she had left of such a misleading name as her legacy, she was speechless to the point of shivering down her spine.

    "Don''t tear it!" Yun Xiao, quick-eyed and nimble-handed, snatched the sword manual away.

    "Yun Xiao, give it to me!" She bit her lip and called the young man¡¯s full name for the first time.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, this is ancestral heritage, you can¡¯t tear it," Yun Xiao said with utmost seriousness.

    "Give it here!" She red.

    "If you don''t tear it, I''ll give it back to you." Yun Xiao put the sword manual behind him.

    "You... you¡¯re killing me with anger!" Zhao Xuanran stared at the white-clothed young man, feeling somewhat helpless. He was so stubborn!

    "Are you going to tear it...?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Fine fine fine, I won''t tear it! Agh, you''re so annoying!" Zhao Xuanran, a bit angry, swayed her jade legs and sat on the cliff. Sure enough, even her annoyed look was somewhat cute.

    "Rest assured, apart from me, no one will think nonsensically." Yun Xiao sat beside her, speaking earnestly.

    "Give it here," Zhao Xuanran pouted.

    Yun Xiao could only give the sword manual back to her. As he handed over the book, he couldn¡¯t help but take another nce down, uncontrobly saying, "Truly worthy of the name!"

    <i>SMACK SMACK SMACK! </i>Zhao Xuanran took the sword manual and immediately smacked it on his head three times.

    From a distance, Cai Maomao was shocked, secretly saying, "I didn''t expect that even a handsome man like Junior Brother Yun would also get beaten like us! It must be because his aptitude is dull, disappointing Senior Sister Zhao!"

    Fortunately, Zhao Xuanran no longer cared about the nickname matter. She immediately turned to the next page, her tone serious, beginning to introduce Yun Xiao to this First Sword of Azure Spirit.

    "Be serious! Look at the manual!" Zhao Xuanran said.

    "Yes!" Only then did Yun Xiao move his gaze to the sword manual. Sure enough, the First Sword of Azure Spirit, a Moon-grade sword manual, quickly captured his gaze!

    Flying Sword Technique, Ten-Step Scale.

    Palm Sword Technique, Azure Dragon Squall.

    Sovereign Sword Technique, Azure Sky Will.

    ¡°The sword techniques of the Immortal Dao... Even the names are so elegant, transcendent!¡± Yun Xiao read the sword manual, mesmerized. To him at least, they sounded a lot cooler than other sword and movement techniques.

    Flying Sword, Swallow Tail sh, Ten-Step Scale.

    Palm Sword, Azure Lightning Crane, Azure Dragon Squall.

    Sovereign Sword, Leisurely Wander, Azure Sky Will!"

    "Senior Sister Zhao, what is the Ten-Step Scale?¡± Yun Xiao decided to start his learning with the Flying Sword Technique first. The Flying Sword was utilized for instant death from afar!

    In an attempt to erase the embarrassment from her mind, Zhao Xuanran hummed softly, beginning her exnation, ¡°Ever skipped stones on water?¡±

    ¡°I have. I am unmatched at it.¡± Yun Xiao proimed.

    ¡°Ten-Step Scale is like making the Sword Soul skip on air. As the sword enters the void, each turn and resonance with the air creates a fish-scale-like glow and the sound of a sword hum. Each turn allows the Sword Soul to instantly reposition, using the air''s spiritual energy to gain momentum and increase killing power,¡± Zhao Xuanran exined.

    ¡°One turn is one step, and ten steps mean the Flying Sword elerates, transforms, and strengthens ten times, making it the Ten-Step Scale?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Correct!¡± Zhao Xuanran affirmed, ¡°As the saying goes, ten steps of the sword and seas split and mountains crumble. It describes the Ten-Step Scale! If you can make the sword hum ten times, one sword releases like ten flying fish, each strike explodes with power, killing in a blink of an eye!¡±

    ¡°I understand!¡± Yun Xiao nodded. Ten-Step Scale, a sword technique for killing! Just this description alone told him it was more powerful than Swallow Tail sh.

    ¡°Palm Sword Technique, Azure Dragon Squall,¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze moved downwards on the sword manual.

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun, what is the attribute of your Sword Soul?¡± Zhao Xuanran asked.

    ¡°Does it matter?¡± Yun Xiao questioned.

    ¡°It does. If you possess the attribute of thunder, practicing Azure Lightning Crane will be more powerful. If you have the storm attribute, Azure Dragon Squall will be stronger for you,¡± Zhao Xuanran exined. In other words, Azure Dragon Squall was based on the storm.

    ¡°My Sword Soul probably has some wind attribute,¡± Yun Xiao noted.

    ¡°Good!¡± Zhao Xuanran nodded, ¡°In Azure Dragon Squall, the sword is like a storm, striking like a dragon, grandly opening and closing, embodying the energy of Azure Spirit''s Sword Pavilion. It has three forms¡ªAsk the Heart, Ask the Heaven, and Ask the Dao.¡±

    ¡°In the three questions of the human world, the Sword Heart is clear, bearing no grudge against the world,¡± Yun Xiao recited a line from the sword manual.

    ¡°Lastly, the Sovereign Sword Technique, Azure Sky Will,¡± Zhao Xuanran announced.

    ¡°What¡¯s special about it?¡±

    ¡°The intention of a Sword Cultivator, aiming at the azure sky! You practice Leisurely Wander, ying among humans, not caring about the worldly dust. But if you practice Azure Sky Will, you inherently possess the aura to reach the heavens. A man''s ambition is in all directions, aiming at the azure sky, advancing fearlessly, the sword pointing at all evil!¡± Zhao Xuanran''s voice rose passionately.

    ¡°Alright, Azure Sky Will! Soar through the clouds, ambition in the azure sky!¡± Yun Xiao felt it. Ten-Step Scale! Azure Dragon Squall! Azure Sky Will! These three sword techniques perfectly matched his current state of mind. Not leisurely wandering, but aiming at the grand expanse! He now possessed these three Moon-grade sword techniques! Even Ye Tiance could not practice such sword techniques!

    ¡°Let me exin the details to you first, then lead you in sword practice.¡± Zhao Xuanran was quite serious as she continued to turn the pages.

    ¡°Hmm.¡± Yun Xiao nced at her profile and nodded. A gentle breeze blew, bringing with it a subtle, captivating fragrance, as strands of long hair teased and enticed.

    He sank deep into the path of the sword, immersing himself in the state of a genius Sword Cultivator. On the first day, he did not touch his sword. First, he listened, then he watched, slowly umting the rhythm of the sword within his heart as he listened, and practicing them in his mind as he watched.

    Under the sun and the moonlight, before Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes, the woman in ck, Zhao Xuanran, first unleashed the Ten-Step Scale with her Flying Sword, then performed the fierce Azure Dragon Squall with her Palm Sword. The former was a deadly machine, thetter, grand and bold! With her sword''s momentum soaring in a fearless advance... It was utterly delightful!

    In the evening breeze, Zhao Xuanran flew through the heavens and earth on her Sovereign Sword. Yun Xiao stood on her sword, his hand holding her slender waist, listening to her exin the secrets of the Sovereign Sword. The ck sword howled, shooting up to the clouds, flying beyond the cloud''s edge, embracing the azure sky and the moon in absolute splendor.

    As night deepened, the two descended from their swords, returning before the Grand Hall. Yun Xiao''s mind was filled with shadows of swords and beautiful figures, along with the nickname in the sword manual.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, thank you for your hard work." Yun Xiao bowed with a look full of respect. She indeed had worked hard, exining and demonstrating for him the entire day.

    "Not at all," Zhao Xuanran said softly, "Take the sword manual and study it more tonight."

    "No need, I have already learned it all," Yun Xiao suddenly smiled.

    "What?" Zhao Xuanran was stunned! "Stop with the jokes, it''s boring. You haven¡¯t even unsheathed your sword," Zhao Xuanran said.

    Yun Xiao turned and pointed to a blue stone on the opposite mountain, asking, ¡°How many steps can you reach with Ten-Step Scale?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve only practiced for a year, so seven steps,¡± Zhao Xuanran said.

    ¡°Is that very powerful?¡± Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s stronger than my senior brothers and sisters. My father at my age could only reach three steps,¡± Zhao Xuanran said, appearing quite satisfied with herself.

    ¡°Can your Flying Sword hit that blue stone?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    Zhao Xuanran nced in that direction and shook her head, ¡°No, it¡¯s too far.¡±

    ¡°I can!¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°You?¡± Zhao Xuanran looked at him, ¡°At this distance, unless you can do ten steps, you won¡¯t reach it. I know you have high talent, start practicing tomorrow, and perhaps in ten days, you can master it.¡± Ten days! She herself dared not even think of it.

    ¡°What if I can?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Impossible!¡± Zhao Xuanran stated confidently.

    ¡°I¡¯m a man, having a little more range is normal,¡± Yun Xiao said with a lightugh.

    Zhao Xuanran was struck speechless. If it had been a greasy man saying this in front of her, it would certainly be disgusting. But this boy had a divine appearance, so even his crude words seemed ethereal and otherworldly. Astonishing!

    ¡°If you can shatter that blue stone, tonight I will...¡± Zhao Xuanran gritted her teeth.

    ¡°What will you do tonight?¡± Yun Xiao looked at her pretty face under the moonlight.

    ¡°What do you think?¡± Zhao Xuanran lowered her head, her cute face flushed, her gaze blurred.

    There was a chance! Yun Xiao was energized.

    ¡°But what if you fail?¡± Before Yun Xiao could think more, Zhao Xuanran looked up at him, a bit cunning in her eyes.

    ¡°You decide the punishment!¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°320,000 Spirit Stones, all returned to me!¡± Zhao Xuanran said, sticking out her tongue.

    This time it was Yun Xiao''s turn to be struck speechless. He did not expect her to still remember this money!

    ¡°Greedy woman!¡± Yun Xiao despised in his heart. ¡°If Blue Star and Red Moon had bowels, these Spirit Stones would''ve already be feces...¡±

    Despite this, he still smiled and said, ¡°Okay, the bet is set.¡±

    ¡°Pinky promise!¡± Zhao Xuanran stretched out her hand.

    ¡°Okay!¡±

    "Breaking promises is for curs!" Zhao Xuanran warned.

    ¡°You said it.¡± Yun Xiao reached out, Heaven Burial appeared in his hand, held between his fingers as his twenty-twoyer Sword Aura surged.

    ¡°Quick, look!¡± A few Sword Pavilion disciples were also drawn over.

    They were thrilled. But if they knew the content of the bet between Yun Xiao and Zhao Xuanran, they¡¯d probably be even more excited.

    ¡°Watch closely!¡± Yun Xiao''s demeanor fell heavy. As his eyes fixed on that blue stone, his gaze turned cold. In his view, the blue stone transformed into a ghostly figure, and an intent to kill actually sprouted in his eyes! This sudden murderous air made everyone blink! Killing intent was present! So was the force of the sword!

    His straightforward intention to kill even a stone highlighted Yun Xiao¡¯s heavy murderous aura. He suddenly closed his eyes! ¡°Ten-Step Scale?¡±

    Skipping stones, sword spin, shimmering fish scales, sword hum, sword trajectory... Vivid images scrolled in his mind. It was true that Yun Xiao had never taken out his sword this whole time. But by listening to the mysteriousws behind the technique and watching Zhao Xuanran practice, he had already executed it thousands of times in his mind.

    ¡°Perhaps, this is what they call talent!¡± Yun Xiao muttered. This was true talent! Not a Dao Seed Talent, nor the quality of someone''s Sword Soul. But something innately within his spirit. Although he closed his eyes, the blue stone did not disappear but became the only thing in his world!

    Himself, his sword, and the blue stone! In the world, only these three things remained!

    <i>Ten-Step Scale!</i>

    His sword intent locked onto the blue stone in an instant! The Flying Sword in his hand shot out instantaneously.

    <i>Pop, pop, pop!</i> The azure Flying Sword sped through the air, continuously exploding, each time sshing out a shimmer of fish scales, as if several water flowers bloomed in the air! It was incredibly fast! In just a moment, ten hums of the sword rang out!

    <i>BANG! </i>The blue stone on the mountain instantly exploded! <i>BANG BANG BANG! </i>Beyond the blue stone, severalrge trees at a farther distance fell down in response!

    ¡°Return!¡± Yun Xiao elegantly withdrew his hand, a blue light shed back instantly, turning into a cerulean lotus Sword Soul, spinning in his hand like a ferocious beast made out of azure light.

    The crowd gathered in the Sword Pavilion fell dead silent.

    ¡°Ten sounds! Is that the Ten-Step Scale?!¡± Cai Maomao, with wide eyes, sat down on the ground. His mind felt as cooked as a roasted chicken. During the day, he had thought Yun Xiao was too stupid and got beaten for it!

    ¡°Didn''t Junior Brother Yun only start looking at the sword manual today?¡± Qin Tong was dumbfounded.

    "Is he still even human...?" The gazes of the crowd first fell on Yun Xiao, then unanimously turned to Zhao Xuanran! The person in question herself was rigid, her eyes wide open, as if she had been frozen in ce.

 Chapter 056 - One Breath, a Thousand Miles Along the Wind

    <h4>Chapter 056 - One Breath, a Thousand Miles Along the Wind</h4>

    Yun Xiao had wlessly executed the Ten-Step Scale after merely listening and watching for a day. The first time he unsheathed his sword, it rang out ten times!

    Zhao Xuanran was stunned. Everything happening at this moment made her doubt the year of arduous cultivation she had endured. The most infuriating part was, after the youth sheathed his sword, he even blew a breath on the Sword Soul, then turned around revealing a harmless smile, saying to everyone, ¡°Seems like a Moon grade sword technique isn''t that difficult.¡±

    ¡°You!¡± Zhao Xuanran felt like he was calling her dumb.

    ¡°Want me to teach you tonight? You know, I can show you some extra length...¡± Yun Xiao said with a lightugh.

    ¡°Oh?! Oh ho?¡± Cai Maomao seeing this, started to howl and stir things up.

    Zhao Xuanran red at him for a long while, and then unexpectedly turned and left.

    ¡°Hey? Are you going back on your word? What did you just promise me?¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°Nothing.¡± Zhao Xuanran retorted angrily.

    Sure enough, she went back on her word. Yun Xiao knew she would, so he was just joking.

    ¡°What did she promise?¡± a group of Sword Pavilion disciples asked in unison.

    ¡°Uh!¡± Yun Xiao mumbled. It wasn''t convenient to say! ¡°Senior Sister Zhao, wait.¡± He chased after her.

    ¡°What?¡± Zhao Xuanran turned around, pretending to be fierce.

    ¡°The sword manual, give it to me.¡± Yun Xiao extended his hand, ¡°I¡¯ve learned the First Sword of Azure Spirit, I want to leave my name.¡±

    ¡°Oh!¡± She took out the sword manual from her bosom and handed it to Yun Xiao. Having just walked two steps, she turned back to re at Yun Xiao, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t write nonsense!¡±

    Before her words fell, she found Yun Xiao had already written something! ¡°What did you write?¡± she asked curiously as she moved closer.

    ¡°Here.¡± Yun Xiao showed her. Written on it was... <i>Yun Xiao, who loves to drink his Senior Sister''s Daughter Red.</i>

    ¡°You little...!¡± Zhao Xuanran was furious. <i>SMACK SMACK SMACK! </i>She picked up the sword manual, and hit Yun Xiao on the head three times. After hitting him, she threw the sword manual at his chest and left with graceful steps.

    ¡°Ah, ah! I get it!¡± Yun Xiao, watching the direction Zhao Xuanran left, muttered to himself, ¡°Hitting me three times is code fore over when the clock strikes three at night!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    ¡°Ugh!¡± In the dense forest, Blue Star clutched its abdomen, squatted on the ground and once again began hurling. One by one, dark red Heavenly Dao Sariras bounced out of its mouth, piling into a small mountain before Yun Xiao.

    "Ah! I''m dead tired! I finally vomited them all out!¡± The little ck beast copsed on the ground, belly bared, a face of utter exhaustion painted upon it.

    "Wow, there was still that much left...?" Yun Xiao''s sword-like eyebrows twitched. Sure enough, 320,000 Spirit Stones was no small amount. It had taken the coffin soul beast this long to finally refine them all.

    Earlier, Yun Xiao had relied on the initial batch of refined Heavenly Dao Sariras to transform his second Dragon Spring into a Divine Sea and reach the Mid Divine Sea Realm. This was enough of a power boost to allow him to overpower Ye Ziyan and Liu Xuan, who were both in the Perfect Divine Sea Realm! As for how he beat Ye Xuanying, who was at the Establishment Divine Sea Realm and three stages above him... the biggest factor was that the former Sword Venerable''sbat power had waned considerably with age..

    ¡°You''ve refined everyst one, right?¡± Yun Xiao asked, scooping up the Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    ¡°Everyst one!¡± Blue Star said.

    "How are you two feeling? Yun Xiao asked. He knew a considerable portion of the 320,000 Spirit Stones had been absorbed by them.

    ¡°Not bad, we''ve probably recovered to about the Mid Divine Sea Realm. Handling some small fry for you shouldn''t be a problem. But if we push past our limits and battle those above the Establishment Divine Sea Realm, we¡¯ll fall back down.¡± Blue Star exined.

    "Got it!¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    The little ck beast and Yun Xiao were different. It had two kinds ofbat power. One was the basebat power. The second was explosive power. For instance, when it killed Yao Qingqian, that was unleashing explosive power. Using it meant its base power would drop. But if it stuck to just using its base power, then nothing would happen. The little ck beast had used its base power to kill Fan Shi.

    Despite using its explosive power twice in the past week, thanks to the ample amount of Spirit Stones that Yun Xiao had brought back, Blue Star and Red Moon''s base power was still on the rise.

    "But once those two engage in battle, they have to transform into that ferocious ck-scaled beast. They must y the opponent. So, I shouldn''t use them unless absolutely necessary," Yun Xiao muttered.

    Failure to kill would brew great trouble! Although they held no demonic aura and would never take human form, if someone forciblybeled them as demons, like Ye Tiance would, wouldn¡¯t that cause a huge stir?

    "Letting them serve as a pill refining furnace and portable cultivation room is the safest choice!¡± Yun Xiao decided, believing he should be the one handling all thebat.

    Holding the Heavenly Dao Sariras, Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes zed. ¡°I wonder, can these Heavenly Dao Sariras allow me to enter the Late Divine Sea Realm and possess Three Divine Seas?¡±

    ¡°Why not give it a shot?¡± Blue Star chuckled.

    ¡°Is it appropriate to break through so quickly?¡± Yun Xiao questioned.

    ¡°Quick, your sister! If you can¡¯t, let me be the Creator Immortal," Blue Star blustered.

    Yun Xiao knew it would certainly say this was the start of the path of immortality, the phase of umting magic power, where quick rises in cultivation was possible, and reaching the heavens and understanding the Dao were still far off.

    ¡°All right!¡± Yun Xiao dered, resolute and ready for whatevery ahead. He made no further ado.

    ¡°Once you reach the Establishment Divine Sea Realm, you might find forming an Origin Core a little tough. In the initial stages of this immortal journey, only major transitions through realms like Dragon Spring to Divine Sea will be a small hup. Once you actually enter the realm. early, middle,te stages, whatever, just charge ahead without fear,¡± Blue Star said, rolling its eyes in the air.

    Now that was what you called a monumental rebirth!

    ¡°To be reborn and not make strides by leaps and bounds, to stillboriously cultivate, just shows how useless you were in your previous life as a mortal!¡± Blue Star said with disdain.

    ¡°What Great Emperor, Immortal Emperor, Sword God rebirth or reincarnation canpare with the Creator Immortal?¡± Red Moon mored, continuing its search for stones to gnaw on.

    Yun Xiao was struck speechless by the spiel. All he could say was, having these two things was truly delightful! Heavenly Dao Sariras! Perhaps this thing was also designed by the Creator Immortal. It really did help Yun Xiao¡¯s early realm breakthroughs.

    "Ye Guying has entered the Forbidden Tower. I wonder who''ll be faster in their power-ups. Me or him?" Yun Xiao muttered. He didn¡¯t know much about the Forbidden Tower. ¡°Rumors say he only needs ten days to be stronger than the Sect Master. That alone says a lot about the average cultivation level in the Forbidden Tower. I heard it also has the effect of top-level pills!¡±

    Tonight passed, and only eight days were left!

    Yun Xiao really wasn¡¯t sure if he could catch up with Ye Guying and achieve his revenge. ¡°These 320,000 Spirit Stones are a windfall. Now, even if I borrow from the Sword Pavilion elders, and the Second, Fourth, and Fifth Sword Venerables, it probably wouldn''t even amount to 150,000 Spirit Stones.

    ¡°It''s said that the Azure Spirit''s treasure vault contains millions of Spirit Stones. But that''smunal wealth, saved up by the sect''s ancestors over several hundred years!¡±

    Azure Spirit had a limited amount of Spirit Stones. However, Yun Xiao¡¯s need for Spirit Stones was only growing like a bottomless pit. Blue Star and Red Moon also desperately required a vast amount of Spirit Stones to regain their strength.

    "Ah, why do I feel broke as hell." Yun Xiao sighed. A sum of 320,000 Spirit Stones was enough to rival a small sect, and in a sh, it was gone. Yet, good fortune smiled upon him. When thest batch of Heavenly Dao Sariras slid down his throat, employing the Primordial Void Technique, he smoothly cultivated the Third Divine Sea in his Dantian.

    "I¡¯ve reached the Late Divine Sea Realm!" Yun Xiao proimed. With power equal to an ordinary Sword Venerable, twenty-twoyers of Sword Aura, and mastery of Moon-grade sword techniques, all achieved in a mere day, he felt hisbat power skyrocket once again.

    "Hahaha! I''m on top of the world. Is this what it feels like to be a genius?" Yun Xiao mused. Even the soul of his mortal self found it hard to swallow this terrifying new reality.

    ¡°You¡¯re too weak! As a reincarnation of the Creator Immortal, please don¡¯t embarrass yourself. If I were you, I¡¯d have ascended to the heavens in three days,¡± Blue Star disdainfully uttered, rolling its eyes.

    Yun Xiao, stifling a chuckle, whispered, "Yeah, yeah, whatever..." Regaining hisposure, he stood tall. ¡°In just six days within the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, I¡¯ve gone from a Dragon Spring Realm novice to a powerhouse, standing among the top three of the entire sect!¡±

    A breakthrough every day! In six days, he tore through the ranks like a hot knife through butter. Were it not for Ye Guying¡¯s miraculous power-up in the Sea of Swords, Yun Xiao would have destroyed Ye Tiance with the help of Elder Fan on the day of the Grand Conve.

    No matter what Blue Star said, Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit soared unbridled.

    "Will you choose a different path?" Blue Star suddenly asked.

    ¡°What path?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°The path of evesting caution. Shying away from problems, refusing to save people, failing to take revenge, always choosing the safest option, agreeing to everything just to be an Immortal?¡± Blue Star probed calmly.

    ¡°If my sword can¡¯t kill, and vent my emotions freely, why live again? I might as well be dead!¡± Yun Xiao coldly dered.

    ¡°Rightly said! A Sword Cultivator refines energy. And a human breathes emotion! Hold onto this vital breath, and you¡¯ll carve a thousand miles with the wind of delight. Lose it, and I fear you¡¯ll never be the Creator Immortal,¡± Blue Star uttered with intense eyes.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°You¡¯ve changed, losing the heart of a pure being borne of primordial chaos; gaining greed, wrath, and foolishness; and gaining worldly emotions. Your path is different. You cannot return to your innocent self or the previous Creator Immortal. You can only be Yun Xiao, swift to love and avenge, to be reforged anew as the Creator Immortal,¡± Blue Star said meaningfully.

    "Greed, wrath, foolishness? Isn''t it supposed to include lust? Why not add lust?¡± Red Moon interjected, confused.

    <i>SMACK!</i> Blue Star pped it, snapping, ¡°I¡¯m sparing him some dignity, alright?!¡±

    ¡°Waa, bullying the honest!¡± Red Moon covered its face, crying.

    Yun Xiao watched them, a sudden deep breath signifying understanding. ¡°I get it!¡±

    ¡°What do you get?¡± Blue Star asked satisfactorily, eager to hear him reiterate.

    ncing at the sky, Yun Xiao solemnly dered, ¡°It''s the dead of night! Senior Sister Zhao is waiting for me to join her for a drink!¡± And with that understanding and a light chuckle, he rose to his feet, looking forward to embracing that streak of snow white yet again.

 Chapter 057 - Demons Invade Azure Spirit!

    <h4>Chapter 057 - Demons Invade Azure Spirit!</h4>

    At 3 o''clock past midnight when the darkness of the night was thickest, Yun Xiao returned to the familiar grounds of the Little Cloud Residence, which was close to the Grand Hall and within the defensive formations of the Sword Pavilion.

    The pond fish, the stone table, the osmanthus tree with its jadenterns, all were as they had been. And there too, still in his heart, was the rosy-cheeked image of pale-skinned beauty! A single candle flickered within a house ahead, its windowttice revealing a charming silhouette.

    <i>She''s there waiting for me! </i>Yun Xiao thought. The youth in white approached the door and gently knocked. "Senior Sister Zhao, I''m here."

    Inside, the delicate figure trembled, pots ttered to the floor, followed by a soft voice, flustered, "Why are you here sote at night?"

    "Ah? Isn''t that what you meant when you kept hitting me in the head with the sword manual earlier today? Three times meanse at 3 o''clock, right!" Yun Xiao replied with a yful smirk.

    Zhao Xuanran was speechless. <i>BANG! </i>She threw open the door, her eyes ring at Yun Xiao, "Stop talking nonsense and hurry back to the Grand Hall."

    "Oh, are you getting cold feet now?" Yun Xiao arched an eyebrow.

    "Cold my ass!" Zhao Xuanran said through gritted teeth.

    "Oh, it''s cold? Does it need some warming?" Yun Xiaoughed.

    Realizing his insinuations, her cheeks flushed red as a ripe peach. With another bang, she shut the door, ignoring him. But who would have thought, Yun Xiao creaked the door open and followed her inside. The boudoir was simply and elegantly furnished with only a wooden bed and a writing desk. On the bedy the white cloth intended for Yun Xiao¡¯s garment, and the desk was piled with books.

    "Get out!" Zhao Xuanran was angry now.

    "What are you writing?" Yun Xiao, ignoring her words, approached her desk. The ink on the table was still wet, and the paper was filled with graceful characters.

    Seeing him unwilling to leave, Zhao Xuanran rolled her eyes and sat beside her desk, continuing to write and said, "Writing a letter."

    "To whom?" Yun Xiao asked from behind her.

    "None of your business!" she nced at him, clearly annoyed.

    Yun Xiao smiled, pointing at the paper, "I saw, my name is on this letter."

    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, she said, "Fine, I was going to ask for your consent anyway. Let me exin now."

    "I¡¯m all ears," Yun Xiao said, pulling up a stool and sitting in front of her knees.

    "This letter will be sent to the Sea of Swords." she said.

    "Sea of Swords? Do you know someone there?" he asked.

    "Yes!"

    "Who?"

    Pursing her lips, her expression turned cold as she uttered two words: "My mother."

    "Mother?" Yun Xiao was taken aback. He had never heard about Zhao Xuanran''s mother and assumed she was no longer around. Could it be she was in the Sea of Swords?

    "Does our mother have a high status in the Sea of a Swords?" Yun Xiao inquired, genuine curiosity coating his words.

    "What do you mean <i>our</i> mother..." Zhao Xuanran, her brows knitting together. She reached for a book, threatening to bop him. "Be serious, no cheekiness allowed!"

    "Alright," Yun Xiao noddedpliantly.

    Yet, when Zhao Xuanran spoke of this woman, her expression twisted strangely. Was it unfamiliarity? Resentment?

    "My mother belongs to Sword Heaven in the Sea of Swords," she said, her gaze drifting to the window, uttering the words with a calmness that barely veiled the tumult beneath.

    "Sword Heaven? A power within the Sea of Swords?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "Mhm. Before the Sword Pavilion pledged allegiance to Azure Spirit, it was somewhat a branch of Sword Heaven. Later on, it dered its independence but still maintained a close rtionship with Sword Heaven," Zhao Xuanran exined, her voice steady but something fluttered in her eyes.

    "Is Sword Heaven stronger, or is the Forbidden Tower mightier?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Naturally, the Forbidden Tower, firstly because it has profound backing, and secondly because it''s an organization of absolute geniuses and talents. Although they''re few in number, all are at the pinnacle of the Sea of Swords," she dered, a hint of heaviness in her tone.

    "Hmm!" Yun Xiao pondered for a moment before voicing his confusion, "Sword Heaven is supposed to be the Sword Pavilion''s backing. The Pavilion has been in trouble for three years. So, why hasn''t Sword Heaven intervened?"

    "Each generation of Sect Master from the Sword Pavilion, in their youth, would cultivate deeply within Sword Heaven. But my father... he was cast out by Sword Heaven!" Zhao Xuanran revealed with a helpless sigh.

    "A castaway? But why?" Yun Xiao quizzed, his eyes wide with bewilderment.

    "Because of my mother." As she spoke of the woman, Zhao Xuanran''s eyes danced with a subtle struggle.

    "It can¡¯t be some clich¨¦d tale of a gant young man and a nobledy, can it?" Yun Xiao asked quietly, nearly whispering.

    "No!" Zhao Xuanran''s eyes locked onto his, a potent intensity within them.

    "Then why?" Yun Xiao persisted.

    "She never loved my father, not for a single moment. The Sea of Swords is a sacrednd for swordsmanship. They were from different worlds, separated by status," Zhao Xuanran uttered, her voice a soft murmur tinged with mncholy.

    "Then why do you exist?" Yun Xiao questioned gently.

    Zhao Xuanran lowered her head, looking at him with a depth that stirred the air between them, "A mistake, borne from a drunken night."

    Yun Xiao was speechless. His first instinct was to console her, but no words left his mouth as she continued.

    "Wine truly isn¡¯t a good thing!" Zhao Xuanran murmured after a pause.

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao nodded emphatically.

    "You should drink less in the future."

    "Can you drink less?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I can¡¯t."

    "Then neither can I."

    "..."

    Silence unfolded like a gentle shroud, encasing them.

    After what felt like an eternity, Zhao Xuanran closed her eyes, exhaled a soft sigh, and whispered, "Actually, I understand her. She could have married a prodigy from Sword Heaven. A single drunken night ruined her life."

    Unexpectedly, Yun Xiao¡¯s wild guess hit right on the mark.

    "So why did she give birth to you?" Yun Xiao, still enshrouded in perplexity, asked.

    "She feared that the abortion medicine would affect the purity of her Sword Soul. By giving birth to me, at the very least, she would still have a future in swordsmanship," Zhao Xuanran exined, her voice barely above a whisper.

    "...So, because of this, Master was expelled from Sword Heaven," Yun Xiao realized, piecing the puzzle together.

    "People of Sword Heaven care deeply about face, especially my maternal grandfather. And since none of this was my father¡¯s fault, there was nothing they could do. Otherwise, he¡¯d have been long dead," Zhao Xuanran concluded, her lips pressed into a thin line.

    "And you?" Yun Xiao queried gently.

    Zhao Xuanran''s eyes, dimly lit by a soft sadness, confessed, "She despises me too. Right upon my birth, I was cast aside to Azure Spirit."

    "Have you ever seen her?" Yun Xiao whispered, exploring the shadows of her past.

    "How could she see me, filled with such bitter hatred?" Her eyes cascaded mncholy, while a surrendering sigh spoke volumes more. "My Junior Brother Yun, it''s aughable tale¡ªbeing birthed because she desired the purity of her Sword Soul, yet being cursed daily, loathed with every breath she took while bearing me. Absurd, isn¡¯t it?"

    "Not in the slightest." Yun Xiao shook his head, struggling to find words that could possibly weave aforting embrace.

    "Hmm." Zhao Xuanran exhaled a weary breath, trying to dispel the shadows with her sigh. "Enough. It¡¯s meaningless to dwell upon."

    Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze gently fell upon the letter lying inconspicuously before them. "But the letter you''re writing to her..."

    "Due to the Grand Wastnd Pact, she won¡¯t concern herself with the survival or demise of the Sword Pavilion, nor will she care for the lives of her daughter and former lover. However, she and Sword Heaven behind her may find a grade Sword Soul intriguing," she reasoned, her eyes, intense yet forlorn, locking with Yun Xiao¡¯s.

    She hesitated before asking, "Junior Brother Yun, would you mind if I report to Sword Heaven about your shattering the Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone?"

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao assured, "Whatever you do, I do not mind."

    "This will catapult you into the limelight! It may bring attention, resources, and protection, but equally, it could summon fatal threats," Zhao Xuanran warned seriously.

    Yun Xiao, undeterred, responded coldly, "Life and death are but threads of the same string! What is there to fear?"

    Zhao Xuanran, a subtle smile disbanding the mncholy between her brows, admired, "That''s the kind of bravery I admire!"

    His spirit, bright and untamed, seemed to dissipate the sadness that lingered in her eyes.

    "I''m still not good enough. I''m only third in the sect," Yun Xiao retorted.

    And there, Zhao Xuanran lingered... speechless.

    Yun Xiao''s mind reached rity, pondering for a moment before inquiring further, "What do you mean by the Grand Wastnd Pact that you mentioned earlier?"

    "It''s a ceasefire agreement signed between the Forbidden Tower and the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord!" Zhao Xuanran proimed with a grave voice.

    "Grand Wastnd Demon Lord?"

    "He is a thousand-year-old demon, a generation''s demon lord, ruling the Grand Wastnd, embodying sin itself!" Zhao Xuanran paused, "The Northern Wastnds are merely the closest region of the Grand Wastnd to the mundane thousand nations."

    "And the content of the pact?" Yun Xiao leaned in slightly.

    "Humanity and demons, each holding their territory, the Sea of Swords and the Grand Wastnd, shall not vite each other''s sovereignty!" Zhao Xuanran dered.

    "Why do Azure Spirit and the Northern Wastnds still fight then?" Yun Xiao was puzzled.

    "In the eyes of the Sea of Swords and the entire Grand Wastnd, these minor conflicts are negligible, allowed to exist without either party interfering," Zhao Xuanran said, teeth clenched.

    "So, that¡¯s why Ye Tiance behaves so recklessly!" Understanding dawned upon Yun Xiao.

    Zhao Jianxing was an abandoned disciple of Sword Heaven, and the Sea of Swords certainly wouldn¡¯t seek justice for him. There may be countless people eagerly awaiting his misfortune.

    "The pact brought a so-called era of peace, but actually, the beings in the frontiers suffer the most!" Zhao Xuanran looked at Yun Xiao, "You''ve just stepped onto the path of immortality. You''re still hot-blooded and passionate. So, you don¡¯t know that to many cultivators, the lives ofmon people and all beings are utterly insignificant!

    "Junior Brother Yun, as the saying goes, the Heavenly Dao is indifferent, and cultivation is about seizing the creation of Heaven and Earth! Demons are powerful and brutal. Who wants to wrestle with them in a life-or-death struggle? So, cultivators stand aloof, seeking the Dao, pursuing ascension, and pursuing detachment from the mortal world. Under that Grand Wastnd Pact, many dark and tragic human incidents have been ignored by the Sea of Swords with one eye open and the other closed..."

    Scoundrels rising to power! Demons wreaking havoc! Zhao Xuanran¡¯s emotions surged, her eyes slightly reddened, anger bubbling within her heart.

    "Since my father and seven senior brothers and sisters met their misfortune, the thousand nations of the mortal world seem calm on the surface. However, every night, powerful demons often devour living humans, and the people cannot live in peace! Now, the malicious demons sneaking into the human world and causing chaos are more than a hundred times as many as three years ago...

    "The world is vast, where sunlight shines there''s peace, but you have no idea how many people in the shadows, in the dead of night, and in corners are being bled, eaten, soul-swallowed, entire families tragically perishing. I''ve been writing to Sword Heaven for three years about this, but the Sea of Swords... they simply don¡¯t care!

    "They think that as long as they have the Grand Wastnd Pact in hand, they can exin themselves to the world, im boundless merit, immerse themselves in the path of cultivation,prehend the Heavenly Dao, and achieve ascension! They don''t have to fight desperately against demons! Little do they realize that those brutal demons are insatiable viins; if you yield an inch, they¡¯ll take a mile!

    "The rise and fall of the world, every individual has a duty! When the powerful shirk their responsibilities, who will uphold justice in this world? We cultivators, fearing death, selfishly seek blessings, focus solely on our own salvation, what kind of sword are we truly cultivating? Are such people worthy of bing Immortals?" Zhao Xuanran calmed her emotions after a moment, then softly said to him, "I''m sorry, I lost myposure."

    "You''re beautiful!" Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "What?"

    "I mean, at this moment, you are very beautiful." Yun Xiao''s eyes zed with intensity.

    "Stop it!" Zhao Xuanran gave him a disgruntled look, then carefully folded the letter, holding it in her hand, whispering, "I hope it won''t be casually thrown into the sea."

    Sword Heaven! A sword piercing the skies? After hearing all this, Yun Xiao felt indifferent. But then, a thought struck him. "Does Sword Heaven possess something that can repair Master¡¯s Sword Soul?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes, but they would absolutely not give it," Zhao Xuanran said, disheartened.

    "If they won¡¯t give it, can it be stolen?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Zhao Xuanran paused, then, after a long while, she nodded and said, "It can be!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the First Sword Peak, in the depth of a moonless night, the heavens shrouded by dark clouds, a surge of ck mist enveloped from the north, casting a shadow over Azure Spirit like a mammoth beast of obscurity. An eerie silence permeated the area, making the immortal sect seem more like an underworld. Chilling winds rustled through the forest, emitting ghastly howls as if spectral beings roamed the night sky.

    Atop a ck mountain, the once bustling Sword Venerable mansion was now swallowed by darkness, devoid of life. The pallid, bitter winds hustled about, causing the meticulously crafted wooden doors to creak ominously.

    On the highest hall above, three figures stood. The one in the center was tall and erect, cold eyes beneath a hawkish nose, draped in a stern sword robe, his expression as dark and deep as a still pond. Beside him stood two others. A beautiful woman in a vibrant red sword robe, her figure gracefully slender, and another, a short, sleazy man with shining eyes.

    It was Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian!

    They stared forward, seemingly in anticipation of something.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Suddenly, the sky conjured a bewitching wind, and a pink enchanting figure descended from above, releasing a dreamlike chain of giggles, and floated before their eyes.

    A charming young girl, her long hair wafting, eyes radiating a pink glow, her smile a tad sinister.

    ¡°Jiang Yue...¡± Upon seeing her, Yao Manxue and Zhang Jian instinctively stepped back, their faces revealing a hint of reverence as they slightly bowed their heads.

    ¡°My true self hasn¡¯te to Azure Spirit. I''ve just borrowed a mortal shell, and yet two Sword Venerables are scared?¡± <i>Jiang Yue</i> giggled, her voice soft and sweet, tingling to the bone.

    ¡°She indeed deserves to be the Northern Wastnds Demon Emperor! Even from Dark Abyss Mountain, she can control a mortal shell,¡± Yao Manxue praised, inhaling deeply.

    If any other Azure Spirit Sword Cultivator were to hear this, their eyes would surely pop.

    The Azure Spirit¡¯s generations-long foe, the Northern Wastnds Demon Emperor, brazenly appeared at the First Sword Peak, holding a secret meeting with the three Sword Venerables?

    ¡°Merely a parlor trick, not worth mentioning,¡± Jiang Yue, her enchanting pink eyes gazing at Ye Tiance, softly spoke. ¡°Tonight, I assist you, consider it a favor to Ye Guying.¡±

    ¡°I will convey your sincerity to him.¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s spirit focused, ¡°My demand is, you must save my Ye Family, with as few casualties as possible!¡±

    ¡°A small matter.¡± Jiang Yue¡¯s faint voiceughed, somewhat chilling.

    ¡°My father, Ye Xuanying, must remain unharmed. He is Guying¡¯s guide, and Guying values loyalty and wishes to repay his adoptive father¡¯s kindness.¡± Ye Tiance reminded solemnly.

    ¡°Easy!¡± Jiang Yue proimed.

    ¡°Are you aware of Yun Xiao? Thisd is desperate and capable of anything.¡± Ye Tiance warned.

    ¡°Do you know me? I¡¯m also capable of anything.¡± Jiang Yue giggled charmingly, a seductiveness emanating from such youth.

    ¡°Fine!¡± Ye Tiance nodded, ¡°Save them first. After that, as agreed, you can absorb Yun Xiao¡¯s vital energy, but do not kill him. Preferably, cut out his tongue, disable his Dantian, and smash his... <i>root</i>!¡±

    He intended to return unto Yun Xiao what he had done to his family''s men.

    ¡°Apart from him and Zhao Xuanran, kill all the rest from the Sword Pavilion. Zhao Jianxing must die!¡± Ye Tiance said maliciously.

    ¡°Zhao Jianxing?¡± Speaking of him, Jiang Yue¡¯s expression also ushered in a shade of cruelty, ¡°Three years ago, I let him escape. Tonight, I''ll visit hisir and skin him alive!¡±

    In the battle at Dark Abyss Mountain, twenty thousand demons perished!

    ¡°After killing him, I''ll bring his soul back to Dark Abyss Mountain. I''ll let him reunite with his disciples, and forever hang in the demon cave, consuming the spit of my demon children and grandchildren!¡± She, too, harbored hatred!

    ¡°Deal!¡± Ye Tiance extended a hand, ¡°Here¡¯s to our second cooperation being a pleasant one!¡±

    "Delightful," Jiang Yue winked, her smile bewitching and mysterious.

    Suddenly, Ye Tiance spoke again. "I have a question for you."

    "Shoot."

    "Using my disciple¡¯s body to speak. Is she still alive?" Ye Tiance inquired, a trace of urgency lining his words.

    "You care for her?" Jiang Yue teased with a smirk.

    Ye Tiance remained silent.

    "Oh, she''s definitely not dead," Jiang Yue chuckled darkly. "Moreover, every word we exchange, every facial expression of yours. She hears and sees it all, loud and clear."

    "I do care for her!" Ye Tiance admitted.

    "No need to lock the stable door after the horse is stolen. Once I¡¯m done using this body and casually discard it, shecks the power to retaliate against you. Why would you care about her feelings?" Jiang Yue remarked, a strange look flickering across her face.

    "Is that so?" A sigh of relief escaped Ye Tiance. "Then consider the question unasked!"

    "Hehehe..." Jiang Yue''sughter grew wilder, while in the depths of her pink eyes, another soul shattered once more.

    After a moment ofughter, she suddenly turned north, squinting, and announced, "They''reing!"

    "They are?"

    All three Sword Venerables trembled, their gazes darting to the north.

    There, the clouds were dense, as if a host of spirits were traversing the night. Amidst the shadows of the forest, arge, dark shape seemed to loom, its poisonous fog spreading outward, melting trees along the way into ck water, corrupting thend with a stench of decay.

    Moreover, a white fog surged, enveloping like a colossal cocoon.

    Then, in the dim tree shadows, six crimson eyes appeared, locking with Ye Tiance¡¯s gaze, promising untold dread.

    "Them?!" Ye Tiance trembled throughout.

    "Quite a surprise, hm?" Jiang Yue arched an eyebrow in inquiry.

    "Absolutely. A tremendous one at that!" Ye Tiance nodded, his smile growing ever colder and more reckless.

    "With them around, there¡¯s no suspense left!" Zhang Jian eximed in admiration.

    "Moreover, with your demon magic, dear Demon Emperor, the Sword Pavilion will surely be history tonight," Yao Manxue spoke to Jiang Yue.

    "And what about you all?" she queried.

    Ye Tiance, surely, couldn''t team up with them in broad daylight.

    Besides, he feared Zhao Jianxing''s final blow!

    "As soon as the fighting begins, the demonic energy will pervade. If the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators are rmed ande over, we''ll find a reason to stop them," Ye Tiance spoke softly. He had a n in mind.

    "Ye Tiance, you truly are a downright scheming viin, aren¡¯t you?" Jiang Yue remarked.

    "You jest. On this path to immortality, there are only victors and the dead, no distinction between gentlemen and scoundrels! If I win, my name will echo throughout the ages!" Ye Tiance dered.

    "Insightful!" Jiang Yue murmured darkly: "On this path to bing an Immortal, where exists any distinction between humans and demons? We are all but pitiful creatures under the Heavenly Dao, struggling for a path of survival!"

    Human and demon locked eyes and once again, theyughed.

    Without uttering another word, Jiang Yue soared away, vanishing into the dark abyss in an instant. In the distant shadows, red eyes, and white fog converged into the abyss as she merged with it.

    "What?" Ye Tiance suddenly frowned, focusing on that shadow.

    "This Serpent Demon has unexpectedly broken through and be a Demon Emperor. So, it''s now much stronger than the Demon Kings who¡¯ve lived for eight hundred years..." He sucked in a sharp breath, somewhat apprehensive.

    "The Serpent Demon has broken through?" Yao Manxue and Zhang Jian shuddered, somewhat breathless.

    Ye Tiance gazed towards the Ye Family ancestral hall, now engulfed in a foul stench, his eyes roiling with murderous intent.

    "Nearly half of the Northern Wastnds Demon Kings have gathered, plus Moon Fairy¡¯s avatar and that thousand-year-old Serpent Demon. If the Sword Pavilion doesn¡¯t perish tonight, I will offer my head to my ancestors!"

 Chapter 058 - Sword Cultivators Do Not Fear Death!

    <h4>Chapter 058 - Sword Cultivators Do Not Fear Death!</h4>

    Ink-ck was the night over the Sword Pavilion. Yun Xiao and Zhao Xuanran, together, returned to the Grand Hall. In front of the hall, members of the Ye Family, chained and hunched, remained tethered to the Azure Spirit Cauldron, under the wary gaze of three elder swordsmen from the Sword Pavilion.

    These captives, tongues severed yet obstinate, stared at Yun Xiao with a defiance that scraped against mortality itself! Especially Ye Xuanying, his eyes aze with a ferocity unbridled!

    His gaze whispered malevolence to Yun Xiao, asserting that even in his demise, with Ye Tiance and Ye Guying around, the Ye lineage would persist, while the Sword Pavilion was doomed to crumble into a pitiful tale, infamous through eternity!

    "You dare to re at me?" Yun Xiao, nonchnt, extended a finger. Two verdant sword rays pierced Ye Xuanying¡¯s eyes, which burst promptly.

    Ye Xuanying, muffling his cries, retracted his neck and, with a scramble and a roll, sought refuge amid the crowd.

    "Who else?" Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes, cold and disinterested, swept over the Ye Family members, who just moments before had dared to meet his gaze. Now, all whimpered, their heads bowed low.

    "Elder Wang, yourbor is appreciated," Zhao Xuanran handed a letter to the rotund, shorter elder.

    "This might be ourst hope for the Sword Pavilion," Elder Zhou sighed at the side.

    "Don¡¯t worry. Even if I must grovel and throw tantrums, this letter will reach Sword Heaven!" Elder Wang dered through gritted teeth. Those who stayed behind at the Sword Pavilion, naturally, wouldn¡¯t sit and wait for doom. With these captives, they could hold on for a few more days!

    "Old Wang, just introduce Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul talent to the people of Sword Heaven, and keep mum about our grudges with the Ye Family. If Sword Heaven fears Ye Guying¡¯s talent and the Forbidden Tower, they might not send help," Elder Zheng said somberly.

    "That shouldn''t happen! Sword Heaven, after all, is a sacred ce of swordsmanship, famed for its integrity..." Elder Wang countered.

    "In these times, nothing is certain." Elder Zheng sighed.

    "Fine! Then, I must take my leave, take care, everyone!" Elder Wang cusped his hands and bowed before departing.

    "Take care!" Yun Xiao responded.

    Against the night sky, Elder Wang rode his sword low, leaving Azure Spirit like a smooth-swimming fish, wavering into the distance. All watched him depart!

    "If it were not an absolute necessity, your father would never wish for us to seek help from Sword Heaven," Grandpa Qinmented, shaking his head at the entrance.

    "Seek help? It¡¯s merely a rmendation of a talent to them. If they treat Yun Xiao well, will he not reciprocate in the future?" Zhao Xuanran responded, her tone light.

    "True!" Grandpa Qin nodded.

    Next, they waited. Zhao Xuanran entered the Grand Hall, joining a gathering of Sword Pavilion disciples.

    "Thank you, elders, for your hard work. I¡¯ll take over the watch," Yun Xiao, who had practiced swordy today, thanked them for initially guarding the prisoners.

    "Stay safe! Ye Tiance will not let matters rest. He will surely seek a rescue n," Elder Zhou warned.

    "Worry not," Yun Xiao smiled, for he was now even mightier than the two elders.

    A gentle night breeze caressed the scene! Yun Xiao sat atop the Azure Spirit Cauldron while others sought shelter within the Grand Hall, where safety was somewhat more assured.

    "So close!" Even after Red Moon consumed those thirty Dragon Spring Pills, it still wasn¡¯t enough to catapult Yun Xiao into the Perfect Divine Sea Realm. "To establish the fourth Divine Sea, even more magic power is needed."

    In short, Yun Xiao waspletely broke. The earlier windfall of 320,000 Spirit Stones was all but a memory, spent to thest stone.

    "Right!" Blue Star, with a chilly sneer, proposed, ¡°Instead of sitting here awaiting doom, why not take the initiative? Hand the prisoners to Zhao Xuanran and, firstly, go y Yao Manxue and Zhang Jian, those two Sword Venerables!¡±

    ¡°They already know about Wu Wu''s fate. So, they''ll absolutely be on guard and won''t leave Ye Tiance¡¯s side,¡± Yun Xiao responded coldly. Otherwise, he would have set out to kill them long ago!

    In a blink, it was 4 o''clock at night. Yun Xiao seized the moment to practice the First Sword of Azure Spirit atop the Azure Spirit Cauldron.

    ¡°As for magic power, my Primordial Void Technique isparable to the Establishment Divine Sea Realm. Regarding the quality of my Sword Soul, I''m certainly stronger than Ye Tiance, and I''m just a smidge away in Sword Aura and Sword Ring! In terms of swordsmanship, I surpass him!¡± Yun Xiao''s eyes radiated an intense, frosty light.

    The murderous intent in his heart escted incessantly!

    ¡°For every inch they push me, I''ll retaliate tenfold! Simply ruining his family and disgracing his ancestral temple isn¡¯t enough...¡± Yun Xiao nced at the expansive Grand Hall, then toward the seven distant graves. How to settle this score?

    Under the nocturnal wind, he practiced his sword again and again. Simultaneously, his eyes swept the horizon. That night, dark clouds loomed overhead!

    From the darkness ahead, waves of ck fog surged toward the Sword Pavilion, the wind whistling with eerie, spectral overtones. Among the forest, it seemed like something unusual was stirring, a malignant aura gradually sprawling towards the Sword Pavilion.

    "Hm?" Yun Xiao sensed something was awry. ¡°Demonic energy?!¡± He had encountered demons before! During his reign as Emperor, he loathed demons to the bone.

    Themon folks suffered, their blood staining the rivers, all due to incessant demonic cmities! This deep-seated hatred, even in a new life, red explosively in a sh when the demonic fog obscured his vision, unleashing a torrent of murderous intent!

    The fog cascaded towards the Azure Spirit Cauldron!

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Suddenly, a delicate snowy figure darted out from the forest, frantic, rushing towards Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, there are demons in Azure Spirit, save me quickly...¡± Her eyes, aglow with a pink luminescence, were filled with crystalline tears, woefully enchanting. Her dress hung loose and disheveled.

    ¡°Jiang Yue?¡± Yun Xiao was slightly taken aback. How did shee here all alone? ¡°You just said there are demons in Azure Spirit?!¡± While there had always been demons in Azure Spirit, they were imprisoned and executed! Not like now, with the demonic energy in the surroundings skyrocketing!

    ¡°Save me!¡± Jiang Yue, her eyes clouded and dreamy, had already reached Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Yun Xiao, without looking at her, focused on the dark fog ahead, prepared to draw his sword and engage.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, how can you bear to...¡± the soft, whimpering voice of Jiang Yue emanated from beside him.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Only then did Yun Xiao realize something was amiss with her! Just as he turned around, a surge of pink mist abruptly enveloped his face. A beguiling fragrance of enchantment!

    In Yun Xiao''s eyes, Jiang Yue shimmered with a pinkish glow, something about her features seeming to shift, especially those eyes, shy yet obsessively charming, irresistibly enchanting.

    ¡°This isn''t Jiang Yue!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s face altered, ¡°She''s possessed by a fox demon!¡± By the time he realized the issue, it was already a tadte!

    Jiang Yue was nearby, the bewitching mist emanating from her delicate frame, was undeniably a method of the fox demon. Assaulting the heart, bewildering the soul! The most terrifying aspect of demons was their magic. Countless demonic magics, endlessly harmful!

    "Yun Xiao, why must we live our lives in constant strife and battle? Isn¡¯t it more beautiful to let love overflow under the moon and among the flowers?¡± Jiang Yue whispered with a delicate giggle, ribbons of red silk emanated from her, twining towards Yun Xiao, who already enshrouded in the pinkish demonic mist, found his eyes tinted in pink, momentarily standing there, befuddled and motionless.

    ¡°Hehe...¡± Soft, coquettishughter echoed around him! Simultaneously, a wave of white mist suddenly burst from the forest! Within the mist, a giant white cloth eerily streaked through the woods as though alive! It was distinctly a white cloth, yet it resembled a chillingly stark, massive white maw!

    <i>GULP! </i>It soared above the Grand Hall, opening wide and swallowing the almost hundred members of the Ye Family whole!

    After engulfing the screaming Ye Family members, the cloth formed a giant white cocoon. Like the stomach of some creature, it charged into the forest with its human cargo, toppling numerous green pines before making its departure!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the Sword Pavilion, Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian anxiously waited.

    ¡°The Veil Demon is here!¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s eyes brightened, gazing towards the direction of the Sword Pavilion. Where his gazended, a white giant cocoon, like a squirming worm, scraped across thend and forest, edging closer.

    ¡°This Veil Demon has been cultivating for eight hundred years. It¡¯s stronger than me!¡± Yao Manxue spoke, her voice somewhat hoarse, eyes reflecting a certain reverence.

    ¡°A funeral veil absorbing grudges and turning into a demon, the Northern Wastnds has only this one!¡± Zhang Jian remarked with a sigh.

    Simr to Blood Demons, the Veil Demon also belonged to the tainted demon category,cking a demonic bone but possessing even more bizarre demonic magics!

    The Veil Demon, birthed from wrapping corpses, favored entombing people within itself, smothering them alive.

    ¡°Zhang Jian! You can call for help now!¡± Ye Tiance, his eyes brilliantly alight, was awash with killing intent.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Zhang Jian hurriedly departed.

    <i>HUM! </i>The white giant cocoon had now reached Ye Tiance! It opened wide, regurgitating each of the Ye Family members right back beside him!

    ¡°Hehe!¡± The Veil Demon contracted its body, astonishingly transforming into a pallid-skinned youth right before Ye Tiance!

    It sneered at Ye Tiance, stating, ¡°How embarrassing for you. Such a dignified Origin Core Realm Sword Cultivator, and yet a mere child has brought such humiliation upon your family.¡±

    Faced with the mockery, Ye Tiance could only ept it!

    ¡°Father!¡± He helped up his father, Ye Xuanying, only to see his father''s eyes, mouth, Dantian, and abdomen all stained with blood, a man already mostly ruined, and instantly rage surged through him.

    Blood seeped from the eye sockets of Ye Tiance¡¯s family members, mirroring the hatred that steeped in their veins.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, Sword Pavilion!¡± Ye Tiance spat every word with venom, directing his wrath towards the direction of the Sword Pavilion. ¡°Today, my family members are saved, and you have lost your leverage. I swear to immerse you in the deepest abyss of mortal torment!¡±

    Turning to the ghostly pale youth beside him, he inquired, ¡°May I ask, Veil Demon King, where are Moon Fairy and the others?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s entranced the child. The other Demon Kings, in ordance with our pact, will assist you in obliterating the Sword Pavilion. By now, most of those Sword Pavilion folks have probably met their demise.¡± The Veil Demon King smirked, eyebrows low and mischievous.

    ¡°Just like that?¡± Ye Tiance was momentarily stunned.

    ¡°What else? A skin-and-bones Sword Pavilion overturning the heavens? Impossible, no?¡± The Veil Demon scoffed, shoulders shrugging, a teasing lilt in his voice as he gazed at Ye Tiance.

    ¡°Splendid!¡± A surge of exhration rushed through Ye Tiance. ¡°Please inform Moon Fairy that, after she has drained Yun Xiao to a mere husk, I wish to deal with him personally. I must sever his tongue, disable his Dantian, gouge his eyes, and annihte his lineage!¡±

    ¡°Enough with your prattling,¡± the Veil Demon, turning away, inquired, ¡°Apart from him and Zhao Xuanran, all others are to be killed?¡±

    ¡°A bunch of old, frail, and infirm! They¡¯ve deserved death for a long time now. Dispose of them as you wish!¡± Ye Tiance replied with a chilling smile.

    ¡°Although weak, they are still of the Sword Pavilion, and their ancestors, who have ughtered my kinsmen by the thousands, after death, shall have their souls confined to Dark Abyss Mountain and the Bluedrop g, eternally tormented, forever disgraced!¡± With a ferocious grin, the Veil Demon evaporated into a white mist, vanishing into the thickets.

    ¡°Not the Bluedrop g again!¡± Yao Manxue¡¯splexion paled.

    ¡°What¡¯s there to fear? This is what happens when one opposes me! We have Ye Guying, and these demons and devils have been terrified into aiding us!¡± Ye Tiance chuckled darkly.

    ¡°It¡¯s over,¡± Yao Manxue gazed towards the Sword Pavilion.

    ¡°Yes, it should have ended long ago!¡± Ye Tiance surveyed his kinsfolk, his heart dripping with a torrential internal bleeding.

    At this moment, the Seventh Sword Venerable, Zhang Jian, had gathered all core Sword Cultivators who had followed the trio. Over three hundred souls! All at the Divine Sea Realm!

    These individuals, with hearts steeled, stood firmly beside Ye Tiance! They knew of the presence aiding them this evening. The Northern Wastnds demons! So, under such circumstances, continuing to support Ye Tiance disyed a grotesquely twisted Sword Dao in their hearts.

    ¡°Such dense demonic aura...¡± As these Sword Cultivators gathered, ncing towards the skies above the Sword Pavilion, their brows knitted ever so slightly. That ce was where the righteous path of the Azure Spirit resided! Where the souls of Azure Spirit ancestors returned! And it was the forbidden death ground for all manners of demons and ghosts!

    Yet now, a colossal, monstrous cloud, like a gaping maw drenched in blood, devoured it whole, swaggering insouciantly,ing and going as it pleased! Who paved the way for them? Naturally, it was the First Sword Venerable, Ye Tiance!

    ¡°Someone¡¯sing!¡± Not much time had passed before Sword Cultivators from all directions soared towards them on their Sovereign Swords.

    ¡°Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, Li Chenlong! They¡¯re all there!¡± Zhang Jian pointed.

    ¡°Stop them!¡± Ye Tiancemanded with a cold smirk.

    With three hundred elite Sword Cultivators, they ascended on their Sovereign Swords, positioning themselves before the Sword Pavilion, barricading the path of Shangguan Yu and the other Sword Venerables!

    ¡°What is this madness?¡± Shangguan Yu was frantic, entirely unprepared for these obstructers.

    ¡°Sword Venerable Ye, demons have invaded Azure Spirit, attacking the Sword Pavilion! We should stand united in the face of amon enemy!¡± Li Chenlong bellowed.

    "Stay your hands, all of you, lest we fall into a sinister trap!" Ye Tiance warned with a solemn tone.

    "What do you mean?" Shangguan Yu coldly inquired.

    "As we all know, Azure Spirit is forbidden to demons. How could they be so bold without someone leading them astray?" Ye Tiance dered, his voice robust and piercing through the gathering tumult.

    More and more Sword Cultivators, arriving astride their Sovereign Swords, swelled the already tense congregation.

    Ye Tiance blocked them all! Sweeping his gaze across the crowd, he pointed toward the Sword Pavilion, stating, "In my view, these demons were brought here by the Sword Pavilion! They collude with the demons, faking conflict while actually setting a trap. Should we charge headlong, we may well be utterly ensnared!"

    Upon hearing this, Shangguan Yu and others nearly choked on their own indignation.

    "You distort truth and virtue, shifting the me! Do you even have a shred of dignity left in your lifelong existence?" Shangguan Yu spat back furiously.

    "What do you mean?" Ye Tiance¡¯s eyes simmered with a lethal seriousness as he gazed at her. "A mere Divine Sea Realm cultivator speaks too much. Believe it or not, I can silence you with a single stroke of my sword."

    With a subtle flick of his finger, a murderous aura menacingly unveiled itself.

    "For a sacred ce of a sect, demons run rampant, a shame that will haunt Azure Spirit for millennia!" Shangguan Yu uttered sorrowfully.

    ¡°Too talkative, aren''t you?¡± Ye Tiance¡¯s sword unsheathed in an instant! Fortunately, at that moment, several dozen Sword Cultivators interposed themselves between him and Shangguan Yu.

    "Sword Venerable Ye, quell your anger!" No matter how sorrowful and outraged one¡¯s heart might be, after Zhao Jianxing was injured, Azure Spirit had only Ye Tiance, a Origin Core Realm cultivator, who had long overshadowed everyone else.

    "I will make myself clear! Today, I forbid everyone from entering the Sword Pavilion not because I want to be oppressive, but to prevent you from blindly walking into a trap and meeting your demise! Whoever wishes to perish, I shall send them on their way first to spare them from dying at the hands of these demons and tarnishing the name of our Azure Spirit!" Ye Tiance bellowed, his voice reverberating throughout.

    "Is it clear now? The Sword Pavilion is in cahoots with the demons, scheming to harm us all. They are the true disgrace of the Azure Spirit!" Yao Manxue coldlyughed.

    Before them, everyone seethed with agitation. Quite a few, upon witnessing the salvation of the Ye Family, could piece together the entirety of the events. Had Ye Tiance been capable of rescuing his family earlier, why would he have swallowed such indignity until now?

    Shangguan Yu stared at the multitude with eyes brimming with sorrow and wrath.

    "Three years ago! Ye Tiance colluded with demons, caused the Sect Master¡¯s sword to shatter, and the tragic death of the seven prodigies! Today, he leads demons into the Azure Spirit and seeks to annihte the Sword Pavilion utterly! Are we merely to stand by and watch as such a despicable, immoral, and lowly person does as he pleases?!"

    "Wait for more people before shouting out!" Chen Dong spoke in a hushed, firm voice.

    Indeed! They had arrived too hastily. Many Sword Cultivators from the seven major Sword Peaks were still en route. With their presentpany of just over a hundred, still fewer than Ye Tiance¡¯s trusted associates, how were they to fight? It was undoubtedly a suicide mission!

    "This Ye Tiance has openly coborated with demons, bringing them into the Azure Spirit to harm people! With his arrogance reaching such heights, I refuse to believe that many will continue to support him!"

    "Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators have never bowed to demons!"

    "For three years, Azure Spirit has owed the Sword Pavilion justice! If we do not stand forth today, your swords will be forever shamed!"

    "How can we, the illustrious Sword Cultivators of Azure Spirit, be oppressed by such a petty man?!!!"

    "Do you remember the vow you made in front of the Sword Ancestor in your youth? Why does one cultivate the sword? To y demons, punish the wicked, and protect the way for all beings..."

    The truth was known, crystal clear. And yet, a viin could still turn ck into white!

    "Summon the men!" Li Chenlong bellowed.

    Indeed, they feared death! They feared being in by Ye Tiance! However, when their bottom line was ruthlessly trampled once again, when their faith was stepped on and humiliated, even those who cherished their lives couldn''t control the surging rage within their hearts. What was the bottom line for the Azure Spirit?

    "Thisnd has been defended with the blood and souls of our ancestors. How could we allow demonic beings to trample upon our heads and kill our people!" The roar of the Sword Cultivators could be heard from afar. More and more people converged. These faces, bathed in blood and resolve, took Ye Tiance somewhat aback.

    "Really not afraid to die, huh? Even now, you can''t see the reality, insisting on opposing me, is that it?" Ye Tiance, his face cold and indifferent, pointed his sword skywards, "I''ll say it once more, anyone who wants to cross my sword, leave your head behind!"

    He thought he could frighten them, but instead was met with eyes bubbling with fervent blood and spirit.

    "The head can stay, but the sword, it must go through!"

    "Forward!"

    Under the night sky, everyone raised their swords!

    "Ye Tiance, I am not afraid to die! For I was born a human! Standing from the standpoint of a human, I shall not share the sky with demonic cmities!"

    "Whoever conspires with demons shall be the mortal enemy of Azure Spirit!" Shangguan Yu¡¯s voice was stern, his eyes aze.

    "In the span of a hundred years of human life, why should we Sword Cultivators fear death!"

    "Charge!"

 Chapter 059 - Junior Brother Yun, Lets Meet Again in the Next Life

    <h4>Chapter 059 - Junior Brother Yun, Let''s Meet Again in the Next Life</h4>

    The ear-shattering killing intent even permeated the tranquil Sword Pavilion! Right before Yun Xiao''s eyes, the woman, whose appearance had be blurry, breathed a fragrance as delicate as orchids, her shadow encircled enchantingly.

    It seemed like many were calling out to him! But amidst the chaos, he could only hear the woman¡¯s murmuring in his ears, her words gentle and sweet, dreamy and illusionary, as soft as down feathers brushing against his senses.

    ¡°Romantic softness of love, it is the ultimate bliss in the mortal world. Why ascend to the Heavenly Dao and guard a lonely life?¡± Her tender, coquettish voice, strand by strand, seeped into Yun Xiao¡¯s ears, dragging him into an abyss from which he struggled to escape.

    ¡°We can''t let it go on like this, can we?¡± Blue Star suddenly interjected.

    ¡°T-then, may I suddenly strike, sneak a bite perhaps?¡± Red Moon drooped its tongue, its eyes gleaming with excitement as it peeked out.

    ¡°You want to try?¡± Blue Star quirked an eyebrow, a yful smirk adorning its features.

    ¡°Then I shall not be polite!¡± Red Moon dered.

    ¡°Go ahead, you little trash eater!¡± Blue Star derided.

    ¡°Hmph! I''ll finish it in one mouthful!¡± Unable to resist being goaded, Red Moon, with quick eyes and nimble mouth, sprang from Yun Xiao¡¯s embrace just as the woman leaned in, baring its massive maw to deliver a potent bite.

    ¡°What the heck! There''s nothing!¡± With a mouth full of blood, Red Moon, its face masked with disappointment, retracted back.

    ¡°You feel stupid now, don¡¯t you? Hahaha!¡± Blue Star erupted intoughter.

    Apanying its mirth was a woman¡¯s agonized scream.

    ¡°What?¡± A sudden piercing pain in his head forced Yun Xiao to stagger back several steps. Before his eyes, a woman screamed in pain, clutching her blood-soaked body. It was Jiang Yue!

    Yun Xiao was momentarily dazed, but memories rapidly reyed in his mind. The pervasive demonic aura, Jiang Yue¡¯s appearance, possession by a demon...

    ¡°What bit me?!¡± Jiang Yue, her eyes aze with a pink light, red furiously at Yun Xiao.

    A demon lurked within her! Moreover, there were more than one of these creatures in their vicinity. The Sword Pavilion was in danger!

    Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes suddenly red a bloody red!

    ¡°Damn it all! Even demons dare to infiltrate my Azure Spirit Sword Sect? Damn!!¡± Profanities spilled from his lips, anger coursing through his veins, as his Sword Soul ferociously rocketed out, aimed directly between Jiang Yue¡¯s brows!

    In this moment, even considering bringing her head back to the Cloud Nation was an afterthought! A soul-piercing strike!

    Jiang Yue¡¯s eyes widened, the pink light within them flickering out as a pink smoke violently split her head open, attempting to flee.

    ¡°Trying to escape?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s Flying Sword pivoted in mid-air, soaring past Jiang Yue, and instantly piercing through the pink smoke. A shrill, fox-like scream echoed from the dissipating vapor!

    ¡°Yun Xiao, dare to y my avatar, and my true form will make death a luxury you cannot afford!¡± The pink mist coalesced into a beautiful rosy vixen, a gaping hole in its chest courtesy of Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul.

    ¡°Moon Fairy...!¡± Jiang Yue''s voice, brimming with a woefulment, pierced through the unsettling silence as she copsed to the ground. Tears cascaded down her cheeks, mingling despair with dread.

    ¡°That''s Moon Fairy? The guest invited by Ye Tiance?¡± A cold smirk danced across Yun Xiao¡¯s lips.

    Seizing an opportune moment, the rosy vixen transformed back into a cloud of pink mist, attempting to flee. But Yun Xiao, relentless, pursued and shed it down with a single stroke of his sword.

    ¡°This avatar of yours... it''s nothing much, eh?¡± Yun Xiao nonchntly seized its throat, his sword shing repeatedly. <i>Swish! Swish! </i>The vixen''s tail and limbs scattered in all directions.

    The creature, eyes aze with an unyielding spirit, hissed venomously, ¡°Destroying my avatar ensures your doom!¡±

    ¡°You first!¡± Unwavering, Yun Xiao pressed the fox to the ground. His sword descended repeatedly, chopping with the routine ease of one dicing vegetables. After dozens of strikes, the creature was reduced to a mere pulp.

    ¡°I, my true form will...¡± The vixen¡¯s promation was cruelly cut short, meeting its demise within Yun Xiao¡¯s firm grip.

    Apparently, while its charming illusion technique was decent, its unique form had weak magic power. Once the charm failed, it was nothing but meat on Yun Xiao¡¯s chopping block. There wasn''t even time for a proper scream.

    Jiang Yue, pallid and stricken, witnessed the brutal scene before her.

    ¡°Jiang Yue, who would''ve thought you, a useless nobody, would even have the merit to partake here? You sure can hop around. Couldn¡¯t you just wait obediently for Ye Guying¡¯s demise?¡± Yun Xiao nced sideways only to realize that the members of the Ye Family had been abducted. This had to be Ye Tiance colluding with the demons!

    ¡°I was possessed...¡± Jiang Yue, a portrait of misery and despair, barely mustered a whisper, finding life more punishing than death itself.

    ¡°Even though you were possessed, it¡¯s clear you were quite eager to see me perish, no?¡± Yun Xiao was on the brink of extinguishing her life when¡ª

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun!¡± Battles roared at the entrance of the Grand Hall. Zhao Xuanran, the two elders, and Grandpa Qin, were bathed in their own blood, engaged in fiercebat.

    ¡°So many demons? Some bewitching, some rescuing, and some killing?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s heart thundered, enkindling a fiery rage that bellowed within. Moon Fairy! She¡¯d been in the Azure Spirit all along!

    Even now, with sounds of sword fighting echoing from outside the Sword Pavilion, Yun Xiao did not need to ponder; Ye Tiance was blocking thoseing to assist. ¡°Does he wish for these demons to annihte my Sword Pavilion?¡±

    Those folks were undoubtedly reveling, sneering in malicious delight, awaiting the Sword Pavilion¡¯splete destruction. Little did Ye Tiance know, Moon Fairy¡¯s avatar had been obliterated by Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Ye Tiance, your end will not be a pleasant one!¡± Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Yun Xiao surged forward, directing his fury towards the battle at Grand Hall.

    ¡°Yun Xiao! Hurry!¡± Qin Tong''s voice quivered in desperate urgency.

    ¡°These three wolf demons are all eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings! They''re as strong as Sword Venerables in the Establishment Divine Sea Realm!¡± Cai Maomao spoke, his voice shaking like leaves in a violent wind.

    Three Sword Venerables! With the enchantment of Moon Fairy and the murderous assault of the three Demon Kings each at the Sword Venerable level, Ye Tiance was brimming with unabashed confidence, certain of his impending victory!

    However, in his wildest dreams, he couldn¡¯t fathom that nestled within Yun Xiao''s arms lurked a coffin soul beast.

    ¡°Eight hundred-year-old Demon Kings...¡± As Yun Xiao dashed, his eyes, cold as a winter river, scanned the unfolding chaos.

    These three Demon Kings had revealed their true forms! Three towering grey-white wolves stood, their fur sharp and menacing, eyes a malevolent crimson, ws and fangs honed razor-sharp. They were enshrouded in a malevolent aura, each seeming to be swathed in a ghastly mist of death!

    Zhao Xuanran could only manage one! With Elder Wang gone to send a message and only three elders left to face these eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings, dangers reared and snapped at every turn!

    Grandpa Qin, once a swordsman of the Establishment Divine Sea Realm, now enfeebled by age and blinded, had drastically reducedbat abilities. The other two elders, each at the Perfect Divine Sea Realm, could only join forces in a precarious holdout. And yet, within a mere moment, they were all scratched and gashed, wounds deep enough to carve into bone!

    With disaster looming and the Sword Pavilion disciples panicking, Zhao Xuanran¡¯s face mirrored her inner turmoil, her fury barely contained.

    ¡°You think you can ascend to heaven all by yourself, but the reality is, you can''t save anyone! Only Senior Brother Ye is the chosen one...¡± Jiang Yue¡¯s eyes, though dim and vacant, still perceived the impending cmity enveloping the Sword Pavilion. When her hope wilted into despair, only Ye Guying remained a steadfast pir in her heart.

    ¡°Yun Xiao!¡± Zhao Xuanran, wielding her ck longsword, bellowed sharply.

    <i>Whoosh! </i>She hurtled towards the foe facing Grandpa Qin, leaving her own back exposed, entrusting it to Yun Xiao!

    Grandpa Qin was already pinned to the ground by a fearsome wolf, she had no choice but to assist! However, in doing so, she ced herself in peril!

    ¡°A mere child, daring to battle me, and even turning your back to this sovereign?¡± The first Wolf King sneered menacingly, chasing after Zhao Xuanran, a foul, bloody wind assaulting her form. In her mind, she could only think of one thing. She''d save all the people she could first. Then, she''d leave the rest to fate! She''d leave it to Yun Xiao!

    ¡°Senior Sister Zhao!¡± Witnessing this scene, a furious fire zed within Yun Xiao, murder bubbling in his veins. A mere mongrel dared to assault Zhao Xuanran?

    ¡°Perish!!!¡± Yun Xiao, transforming into a streak of white, charged forward, his Sword Soul materializing into a Flying Sword, shooting forth!

    <i>Ten-Step Scale! </i>The azure Flying Sword detonated in mid-air ten times in session, each explosion louder and quicker than thest! In the end, it spun into a cyclonic tempest, resembling azure fish scales, and mmed into the Wolf King from the side!

    It was Azure Spirit''s number one Flying Sword! A Moon grade sword technique!

    ¡°Insig...¡± The Wolf King, intending tough malevolently and dismiss Yun Xiao, found his expression violently shifting just at the utterance of the word, his face a canvas of terror and disbelief!

    <i>Whoosh! </i>A turbulent azure storm plunged into the beast''s eyes, instantly piercing through its skull from behind. The gory mixture of red and white matter scattered in all directions.

    <i>Boom! </i>The residual force of the Flying Sword caused the beast king¡¯s entire head to burst open. Its body flew backwards, crashing violently into the outer wall of Grand Hall. The impact was so violent it left the wall sttered with demon blood, trembling the entirety of the hall. A Demon King of eight hundred years was felled in a single sword blow!

    "Junior Brother Yun..." Cai Maomao, Qin Tong, and others stared with their eyes wide open, their hearts pounding with shock.

    Zhao Xuanran didn''t even have to look back. She had entrusted her life to Yun Xiao while battling fearlessly. Racing towards Grandpa Qin, she released her Azure Dragon Squall sword technique, repelling another beast king and rescuing Grandpa Qin from the jaws of death.

    "Can Yun Xiao be this powerful?" Grandfather Qin eximed, sobbing with relief.

    The battle was not over yet!

    "You insignificant demons think you can ughter us in our Azure Spirit Sword Sect?" Yun Xiao challenged, "I haven''t even set about exterminating you from your Northern Wastnds yet!"

    With such arrogance, how could the demons endure it?

    Yun Xiao stretched out his hand to retrieve his Heaven Burial Sword Soul. The moment he set foot on the ground, the floor fractured beneath him. <i>BUZZ! </i>Swinging his sword like a roaring dragon, Yun Xiao charged at the second Wolf King.

    This demon had already injured two of the elders, leaving them wounded and bloody. The Sword Pavilion was already struggling, and these three elders could have retreated to other Sword Peaks. Yet, they chose to stay and fight. How could he let them die with regret?

    "This kid!" That Wolf King shrieked in horror, roaring, "Serpent Emperor, why aren''t you making a move?" Before its words even fell, Yun Xiao was right before its eyes! Wearing a white robe and wielding an azure sword, Yun Xiao was a dragon unleashed. His sword sted out, the aura like a roaring azure dragon!

    Azure Dragon Squall! His first sword technique, Ask the Heart, was a piercing strike, like a dragon biting a fierce wolf!

    The Wolf King growled, swiping its ws at Yun Xiao! His ws were half a foot in length, sharp as a knife and imbued with thunderous power. Moreover, they enveloped a gray me, sweeping towards Yun Xiao!

    <i>KLANG! </i>Yun Xiao''s powerful strike pierced through the beast''s ferocious ws and with a push of his sword handle, the wolf king''s jaw was impaled!

    <i>BAM!</i> With a swift kick to the beast king''s lower jaw, he sent the creature spinning mid-air. When it crashed to the ground, its eyes were wide open as it drew itsst breath in despair. Yun Xiao''s strength had left it in utter hopelessness.

    "One more to go!" The youth didn¡¯t hesitate. He gripped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, ready to continue his onught when an rmed cry of "Demon Emperor!" came from Grandpa Qin¡¯s direction.

    These words threw the Sword Pavilion into turmoil!

    "A second Emperor from the Northern Wastnds?" Elder Zhou cried with a voice as cold as ice.

    "Watch out!" Elder Zheng shouted in dismay.

    "What?" Yun Xiao asked, his heart leapt. Moon Fairy''s original form was the Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds. Another thousand-year-old Demon Emperor appearing, and evening to Azure Spirit in person was stronger than the avatar of Moon Fairy. It might be even stronger than Ye Tiance in the Origin Core Realm!

    It was a true Demon Emperor!

    Yun Xiao quickly turned. In front of Grand Hall, a dense ck fog had devoured the courtyard. From the shadowy obscurity, a hideously dark serpent darted out from the forest, its rancid aura engulfing the Sword Pavilion.

    It appeared too suddenly! Zhao Xuanran, who was still battling thest wolf Demon King, was totally unprepared for the appearance of a stronger Demon Emperor.

    <i>BOOM! </i>This giant jet-ck serpent spewed out a cloud of demon fog that engulfed Zhao Xuanran, then with a swift headbutt, sent her crashing onto the ground!

    "Ahhh!" Zhao Xuanran was covered in blood! She tried to struggle to her feet, but her body was racked with unbearable pain¡ªher muscles torn, her bones broken¡ªan impossible effort.

    The colossal ck serpent then caught her in its massive jaws, raising its head, bearing a scornful smirk at Yun Xiao! The fairdy in the serpent''s jaws! This horrific sight caused every onlooker in the Sword Pavilion to bristle with rage.

    "Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao cried, his eyes immediately red crimson. This was the woman who had sewn clothes for him all night long...

    The serpent demon smirked, the beautiful woman covered in blood¡ªa dreadful sight!

    In the vicinity, those conniving with the demons, Ye Tiance, and Yao Manxue were still distorting the narrative. They enjoyed keeping their opposition threatened and felt a pride taken from an inted sense of achievement.

    "Foolish lot, unable to understand the ways of the world, willing to throw away your lives in the name of misguided righteousness! How could you possibly stand a chance against me?" Ye Tiance shouted. As the Origin Core Realm expert, he was unrivaled, casting a shadow over all. "After tonight, Azure Spirit will be free of the Sword Pavilion''s vermin. I will be the world¡¯s unchallenged hero, the rightful leader!"

    In this world where demons ran rampant and viins trod upon those beneath them, the loyal had their bodies buried under the green hills, without a path to return. Was this the path of Immortality?

    What merit was there in traversing this Heavenly Dao if one could not wield their sword and fight through? Even if given a chance to live again, would it bear any significance?

    A surge of wrathful blood stormed through Yun Xiao¡¯s veins, momentarily clouding his mind and painting his world a stark crimson.

    ¡°Release her, and let your fate entwine with mine!¡± His voice, both a plea and a challenge, trembled as much as the hand clutching his sword.

    A serpent demon, its face masked with scorn, met his challenge with a derisive, unrestrained chuckle. ¡°You, a mere mortal worm, briefly fluttering from birth to death, deem yourself worthy to cross des with me?¡±

    With a single bite from the demon, Zhao Xuanran''splexion turned a haunting pallor. <i>SPLUTTER! </i>A gush of dark blood surged from her mouth, her life force dissipating like a wisp of white smoke.

    Gazing at the stunned Yun Xiao, her eyes dimmed, whispering softly, ¡°Junior Brother Yun, it seems our next drink will have to wait until the next life.¡±

 Chapter 060 - All of You, Die!

    <h4>Chapter 060 - All of You, Die!</h4>

    Shall we drink together in the next life? No! What Yun Xiao fought for was this very life! What significance would the next life hold?

    "I want you dead¡ª!" Like a tempest, Yun Xiao, brandishing his sword, charged toward the thousand-year-old Demon Emperor. This creature, akin to the perilous beast of the Origin Core Realm, was now a menace that only Ye Tiance of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect couldbat!

    Without the hostages from the Ye Family, facing these two formidable beings was inevitably a dead end! However, was there anyone in this world who cared for Zhao Xuanran more than Yun Xiao?

    As Yun Xiao moved, another sword, even swifter than him, exploded from the Grand Hall, bursting forth like an enraged azure dragon from its den, surging from the side, biting precisely at the vital part of the serpent demon!

    <i>PSHT! </i>The sinisterly smiling serpent demon immediately spurted blood, letting out a horrendous scream, fiercely thrown flying! A basin-sized bloody hole ruptured through its serpentine body, demon blood sttered, the sword was embedded deep into its bones!

    "Zhao Jianxing!!" The thousand-year-old serpent, screeching maliciously, managed to wriggle and rise. Despite being soaked in its own blood, its thick skin and rugged flesh miraculously sustained life. Yet, even if it didn¡¯t die, it was severely injured!

    Indeed, Zhao Jianxing had acted! How could he allow his own daughter to suffer in front of this Grand Hall? In pain, the serpent demon spat out the dark silhouette. Yun Xiao, a flickering white shadow, immediately embraced her in his arms.

    "Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes turned scarlet, his voice trembling.

    "It¡¯s okay... just a bump, the demon''s poison has entered my body, but it won¡¯t kill me," Zhao Xuanran, also with teary reddened eyes, assured him. In the next moment, her expression shifted, looking toward the direction of the Grand Hall! "My father!"

    Yun Xiao¡¯s body also jolted. "Just now, did Master use that deadly force?" If he did... Zhao Xuanrannded on the ground, disregarding her injuries, her eyes filled with anxiety as she rushed into the Grand Hall.

    "My dear Xuanran! It¡¯s okay, your father didn¡¯t use his full strength, there¡¯s still hope!" Grandpa Qin¡¯s words, if anything, allowed the tightly-wound nerves of these two young individuals to finally loosen a bit. There was still hope! As long as there was hope, there was possibility! Yun Xiao''s heart also just rxed a tiny bit.

    However, an overwhelming fury immediately surged into his heart, setting his entire being aze!

    "Zhao Jianxing has fallen into the trap and is dead. Let Ye Tiance deal with what¡¯s left! We¡¯re leaving!" The thousand-year-old serpent demon, still in pain, immediately spoke to the only remaining wolf Demon King.

    Sure enough, the creature had targeted Zhao Xuanran, all to force Zhao Jianxing to release his final kill!

    Being the roughest and toughest creature of the Northern Wastnds, it could surely withstand it! It did not believe that Zhao Jianxing, having shattered his sword three years prior, could muster another Sword Soul strike tonight and survive!

    Today''s mission hadn''t gone smoothly. The Moon Fairy had wasted an avatar, and two eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings had died!

    "At least we saved the Ye Family members, giving Ye Guying some peace," it thought.

    Considering Zhao Jianxing was undoubtedly doomed, and this Serpent Emperor was bleeding profusely, there indeed was no need to linger.

    "Go!" Thest Wolf King, already frightened to its core by Yun Xiao, hastened its escape. How had this youngster be so strong? Wary, it turned, aiming to disappear into the forest. However, in that moment, sword sounds echoed from behind¡ªten times!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Scales glittered, and a frigid, murderous sword aura whirled forward!

    "What?" The Wolf King spun around, only to see that the youth in white was, astoundingly, chasing them¡ªhim and his sword alone! In an instant, his Sword Soul was upon the Wolf King!

    "Did I say you could leave?!" Yun Xiao¡¯s face was a dark storm.

    <i>Ten-Step Scale!</i>

    With ten explosive sounds from the Flying Sword, a sh of light, and the head of thest Demon King¡ªequivalent to an ordinary Sword Venerable¡ªburst open!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>It toppled dead on the escape path, its body catapulting thirty feet forward, spraying blood along the way, and toppling several green pines.

    "Serpent demon, your death shall be here too!!" Yun Xiao pursued into the forest, his white figure a sh, intercepting the thousand-year-old Serpent Emperor! <i>Hum! </i>He held aloft his three-foot long azure sword, his hair whipping about, and his eyes surged with sword light!

    "Heh heh heh!" The thousand-year-old serpent demon sneered. "You''re simply too naive. Do you think I withdrew because I feared you, a mere child? I could consume ten of your kind every day!"

    The Serpent Emperor had already formed its core! Its demonic power surged, like endless poisonous fog. Wherever the ck mist passed, the surrounding forest quickly withered into ck water, even melting rocks!

    <i>Whoosh! </i>Before the serpent demon could finish speaking, Yun Xiao fearlessly charged toward it! Forward without retreat! Life or death hanging in the bnce! Not a hint of hesitation!

    "You¡ª!" The thousand-year serpent demon flew into a furious rage. It had traversed the Northern Wastnds, and when had it ever been so provoked by a youth?

    "Fine! I shall assist Ye Tiance once more!" A sudden expulsion of dark demonic mist, thick and rolling like a sinister torrent, lunged toward Yun Xiao!

    With a shift of his form, Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul morphed once again into a Flying Sword.

    <i>Ten-Step Scale! </i>He struck out with his sword once more!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Ten sonic booms of the sword, skimming across the ck fog like stones across water, zoomed, aiming to pierce into the sight of the thousand-year-old serpent demon!

    ¡°Hehe!¡± With eyes closed, the serpent demon lifted its sharp, ck horn to meet the attack, while its tail, like a long whip, furiouslyshed towards Yun Xiao!

    <i>BAM! </i>Such mighty force in the tail, every tree in its path was cleanly bisected! Confidence swelled within it. Unexpectedly, at that very instant, the azure Flying Sword detonated with an eleventh resounding ring!

    ¡°What?!¡± The serpent demon cried out in astonishment.

    Who said the climax of the Ten-Step Scale was merely ten sword sounds? If we¡¯re skipping stones, why set a limit? With the qualifications of a Creator Immortal, Yun Xiao propelled the Ten-Step Scale to new heights!

    <i>BOOM! </i>With a final flick, like a fish flipping its tail, the azure sword swiftly circled around the demon¡¯s horn, in a sh plunging into the gory wound! This was the very wound Zhao Jianxing had created!

    The serpent demon was caughtpletely off guard!

    Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul surged in, whirling and shing, instantly severing the thousand-year-old serpent demon¡¯s heart! Two generations, the sword ryed! What Zhao Jianxing couldn¡¯t cut, Yun Xiao could!

    <i>SPUTTER!</i> The Heaven Burial Sword Soul stabbed into its heart, puncturing the cardiac walls, voraciously consuming the serpent demon¡¯s blood.

    <i>SPUTTER SPUTTER SPUTTER! </i>Copious amounts of serpent blood erupted like a fountain from its wound!

    ¡°Impossible...¡± The serpent demon howled in agony, its expression a grotesque mask of pain! Its choice to retreat was precisely because this wound was a vulnerability! It had never imagined, this youngster¡¯s swordsmanship was many folds more profound than Zhao JIanxing''s, even breaking Azure Spirit''s history, turning the Ten-Step Scale into eleven steps!

    It was familiar with the Ten-Step Scale! Precisely because of this familiarity, it was caught by surprise!

    "HISSS!" The serpent demon wailed, mobilizing all its demonic energy, aiming to lock down Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul, while enduring the pain tounch another attack on Yun Xiao¡¯s body! As long as this man died, the Sword Soul would naturally dissipate!

    ¡°You think you can suppress my Sword Soul?¡± Yun Xiao nimbly dodged the sweeping serpent tail, abruptly swooping to strike the other side of its wound with a punch!

    The thousand-year-old serpent demon screeched once again, its heart continuing to violently bleed out! Its ck blood dyed half the mountain crimson! Its serpentine body visibly copsed inward, highlighting its massive blood loss!

    ¡°Your Sword Soul... it consumes blood! And has deathly powers! It corrodes my flesh...¡± The thousand-year-old serpent demon, wide-eyed and disbelieving, stared at Yun Xiao. ¡°This is not a Green Lotus Sword Soul at all!¡±

 Chapter 061 - Im the Creator Immortal, What Are You?

    <h4>Chapter 061 - I''m the Creator Immortal, What Are You?</h4>

    If it were an ordinary Green Lotus Sword Soul, would the Serpent Emperor fail to suppress it? Of course not! The Sword Soul plunged into its heart, like it had been thrust into a realm of the dead. Heaven Burial drew blood and corroded at the same time, and how on earth could that be suppressed?

    The Serpent Emperor bled explosively, hemorrhaging profusely and losing its demonic power!

    "Only realizing it now, are we? Toote!" Yun Xiao taunted. He seized the opportunity as the Serpent Emperor started to weaken to m its head into the ground, delivering several relentless punches¡ªone after another!

    <i>BAM BAM BAM! </i>Its serpentine eyes burst. Screams of agony echoed around them. <i>BUZZ! </i>Swift as lightning, Yun Xiao moved behind it, hoisted its tail, and swung it up high, pummeling it onto the ground repeatedly.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>He directed all the Serpent Emperor''s spattering blood towards its heart, while he kept smashing it onto the ground. This gruesome spectacle was a horrendous sight to behold.

    "You vile beast, you dare harm my Senior Sister Zhao?" Yun Xiao bellowed, punching and smashing, relentless in his onught. During his violent onught, the Serpent Emperor''s spine broke, bone splinters piercing out from its flesh!

    "You insolent human! Are you aware of my secret identity?" the Serpent Emperor spat out in a ferocious tone. Its spine was barely holding up when Yun Xiao suddenly grasped his Flying Sword, transforming it into a three-foot-long Palm Sword, without even looking up, he thrust it directly towards the wound.

    "I am the foster son of the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord!" Upon hearing this deration, the onlookers from the Sword Pavilion were shocked, the faces of the two observing elders changed!

    The Grand Wastnd Demon Lord! That entity not even the Forbidden Tower would dare to cross!

    "Foster son?" Upon hearing this, Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul plunged deeper into the Serpent Emperor''s body, piercing its spine. "Even if you are his blood-son, if you dare harm the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, I will make sure you are wiped from existence!"

    The Serpent Emperor was stunned. Immediately, the pain that shot through its demon bones surpassed all previous agony ten-fold. Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul was biting into its demon bones voraciously. For demons, this torturous experience was the ultimate nightmare.

    "Ah!" the Serpent Emperor convulsed in the throes of pain. Its screeching screams reverberated in the night, sending chills down the spectators'' spines.

    "You will..."

    "Did I say you could speak?" Yun Xiao interjected and with force, plunged his Sword Soul even deeper. The Serpent Emperor''s speech turned into incoherent whimpers.

    "Spare... spare me!" Finally, fear had overtaken the Serpent Emperor. But it was already toote.

    "Spare you? Good joke! I hear you''ve achieved the Demon Core Realm, right?" Yun Xiao snarled.

    "No, No!" The Serpent Emperor shook violently, whimpering and almost sobbing.

    Yet Yun Xiao had already drained the demon of its marrow!

    "Don''t die just yet... If your death isn''t gruesome enough, I''d be doing my Senior Sister Zhao a disservice!" Who could you have crossed paths with, out of all people, but those dear to Yun Xiao? Who made his white clothes? Who stoked the mes of his youthful passion?

    Yun Xiao showed no mercy. He stepped on the serpent''s abdomen, his sword plunged deep into it. As he drew his sword down, the serpent demon that once thought itself invincible was instantly gutted!

    The Serpent Emperor screamed out its despair.

    "Demon Core!" Yun Xiao cried out, his Sword Soul scooping out a ck bead from the Serpent Emperor''s abdomen, a bead emanating dense, demonic energy. It was norger than a soybean, but the energy it contained was overwhelming.

    "My... my core..." The Serpent Emperor''s despairing scream grew weaker. Its recently formed Demonic Core was gone, and its life was fast fading. Yun Xiao swiftly severed its spine, his foot firmly nted on top of the monster.

    "Who''s the mortal? Who lives from dawn to dusk?" Yun Xiao taunted. "Now, it¡¯s you that¡¯s dead and I''m still alive! I carry the grace of the Creator Immortal. What are you?"

    A whirring flurry of ten shes from Yun Xiao''s sword, and the Serpent Emperor''s skin was yed and flesh split open.

    "Ah!" With itsst gasp carrying fear of the young man, the Serpent Emperor sumbed to death. A thousand-year-old demon fell at the hands of a sixteen-year-old boy. It couldn''t believe its own fate.

    "Yun Xiao..." Beside the scene, Jiang Yue was terrified out of her wits. Just a moment ago, she¡¯d been secretly praying for Yun Xiao¡¯s death. Yet, the boy turned out to be a living nightmare, making her crumble in fear. However, Yun Xiao had long grown indifferent to her feelings. He even started to find her repulsive.

    At first, Yun Xiao had nned to take her head back to Cloud Nation, but now it seemed more and more pointless. The once-acimed genius had be an unmistakablyughable clown after her downfall.

    He turned his attention to the people from Sword Pavilion. He had no rtives apart from his sect members. To him, his Senior Sister Zhao, senior brothers, the elders and even his mute Master were like family.

    With the Serpent Emperor in, Yun Xiao lifted his gaze. At the entrance of Grand Hall, a woman in a ck gown leaned against a pir, her eyes moist with tears, a smile of delight underscored by sadness glistened as she looked at him. Words weren''t needed. Everything he needed to know was spelled out in her gaze.

    <i>SQUELCH SQUELCH SQUELCH! </i>The fiery passion within Yun Xiao was still not entirely cooled. He turned and skinned the colossal serpent entirely, presenting a ghastly sight.

    "Yun Xiao is the true heaven-defying genius! Who else can strike eleven times with the Ten-Step Scale and make it echo through the ages?" Grandpa Qin eximed, his words inspiring everyone present with greater hope.

    "Indeed!"

    "He hasn''t even measured his Sword Soul yet. Who knows how powerful it is?" Cai Maomao, his ardent supporter, was fired up.

    The members of the Sword Pavilion were all reinvigorated.

    "Junior Brother Yun, there are still three demon bones," a woman in a ck gown softly pointed at the three wolf carcasses in the crowd. "Develop your Sword Aura first, then your Sword Ring."

    Composed, Zhao Xuanran was already thinking of Yun Xiao''s next steps. The night''s battle was not over yet. Vengeance still simmered in their hearts.

    "How is our Master?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I''ll exinter," Zhao Xuanran, her voice trembling slightly.

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao nodded and quickly absorbed the demon bones from the three eight-hundred-year-old Demon King carcasses.

    While they were not as powerful as the thousand-year-old Demon Emperor, they still allowed Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul to develop two moreyers of Sword Aura!

    "Twenty-nineyers of Sword Aura, five more than Ye Tiance and two more than our Master during his peak! This ranks among the revered in the history of Azure Spirit!"

    At present, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul not only had a terrifying quality but its Sword Aura was significantly superior to that of others! It looked exceedingly ferocious, its deadly power almost uncontroble, affecting its environment!

    "Imbed the Demon Core into the Sword Soul to form the Sword Ring!" Zhao Xuanran instructed.

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao held the ck Demon Core!

    Everyone in Sword Pavilion drew closer, eagerly watching the scene unfold. At this moment, only the Sect Master and Ye Tiance possessed a Sword Ring, so the others were intensely curious.

    <i>BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ! </i>As the ck Demon Core neared Heaven Burial, it seemed to dissolve, transforming into a ck ring that coiled around the azure Sword Soul¡ªthe development of a Sword Ring, a millennium Sword Ring!

    This Sword Ring came with both demon powers and demon magic and released ck fog continuously around the Sword Soul''s surface, fusing and merging with the Sword Aura.

    The Serpent Emperor''s demon magic, akin to a death force, contained substantial toxicity and corrosion.

    "This way, the Sword Ring doesn''t just add demon magic and power but enhances the Sword Soul and better conceals the death attribute of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul! The observers will mistakenly presume it originates from the Sword Ring!" Yun Xiao mused, who had realized the killing potential of his weapon had grown manifold since integrating the Sword Ring.

    "Perfect! The First Sword of Azure Spirit coupled with the most potent Sword Soul! Yun Xiao, you''re second to none!" Grandpa Qin apuded, infused with great enthusiasm.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, it''s time to discuss his condition," Yun Xiao took a deep breath.

    "Come with me." Zhao Xuanran led Yun Xiao into the Grand Hall. The man in the azure robes who had been sitting cross-legged inside had copsed. Hey motionless, his eyes closed, his face pale, and his breath faint. He was not dead¡ª but his condition could hardly be considered good.

    "His Sword Soul was initially half broken, but now it¡¯s three-quarters gone, barely stabilized by the remaining magic power." The gloom in Zhao Xuanran''s eyes expanded as her voice trembled with pain and anger.

    "Could the items from Sword Heaven save him?" Yun Xiao asked through gritted teeth.

    "Yes!" Zhao Xuanran asserted.

    "Leave it to me!¡± Yun Xiao demanded, his gaze burning into her.

    "Yes..." Zhao Xuanran''s eyes welled up with tears as she choked, "But he can probably only hold on for a month more."

    "A month? Noted!" Yun Xiao said firmly.

    Suddenly, Zhao Xuanran took a softer tone, ¡°Junior Brother Yun, there is an understanding between you two.¡±

    "Yes! That''s why he didn''t exert his full strength today, he left some for me to finish!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    Indeed, that was the unspoken agreement between men! Had Zhao Jianxing given his all, he might have died at that moment, not leaving a month left for healing. He had faith in Yun Xiao and also gave himself a fighting chance.

    Yun Xiao did not let him down! They were master and disciple but had never spoken in words until now. Yet, it was enough. With a fellow traveler in life, even death could be willingly epted!

    The Sword Pavilion quieted down. However, outside, the noises were escting. There was a civil war in Azure Spirit!

    "Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao suddenly looked up at her.

    "Go!" She understood him.

    "Today, I will give Azure Spirit an answer!" After his statement, Yun Xiao turned abruptly and stormed out of Grand Hall, disappearing into the bushes. And he dragged along with him, the corpse of the thousand-year-old Serpent Emperor!

    "Father''s in your hands now, I''m following him," Zhao Xuanran turned back to Grandpa Qin and the others.

    "Are you sure you''re not injured?" Elder Zheng asked, showing concern.

    "I''m not going to die!" Having said that, she chased the white figure disappearing at the entrance of Grand Hall.

    "Where are they going?" Qin Tong asked with a trembling voice.

    "To cull those who betrayed the sect!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the Sword Pavilion, the shing of swords echoed to the high heavens! Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian led three hundred Sword Cultivators, wielding their swords in midair, their eyes cold as ice, as they charged towards the outraged crowd.

    ¡°With my power reaching the heavens, who dares to defy me?!¡± Ye Tiance roared, armed with a dark golden Sword Soul spiraled with a golden Sword Ring, apanied by twenty-fouryers of golden Sword Aura. It was the most resplendent sword in the midnight sky.

    ¡°Are you the one?¡± His cold sneer echoed as his eyes locked onto an old man standing before him.

    ¡°Ye Tiance, you¡¯re despicable! As a cultivator, you conduct yourself shamefully. May you meet a dreadful end!¡± the elder¡¯s eyes zed with anger.

    ¡°Shut up!¡± Ye Tiance vanished momentarily and reappeared with a sh perfect enough to decapitate the elder. He held the severed head aloft, his severe voice reverberated through the battlefield, ¡°See this? This is the fate of anyone who defies the Ye Family!¡±

    ¡°With the presence of Sword Venerable Ye, anyone who dares to challenge us is signing their death warrant!¡± Zhang Jian ttered while swinging his sword.

    ¡°Still unsure who¡¯s the strongest in Azure Spirit?¡± Yao Manxue¡¯s sweet voice rang out,ced with a chilling mockery, as her sword swept wide.

    Sure enough, nobody could contend with Ye Tiance! He killed whoever he saw! And, his three hundred Sword Cultivators who had been assembled from the start outnumbered the rest! He was in a dominating position, using strength to oppress the weak and taking advantage through numbers!

    "y them! Annihte all!" The Ye Family, led by Ye Xuanying, despite having their tongues removed, found the sight remarkably thrilling. Their furious grunts could barely be deciphered into words, but <i>annihte</i> was distinctively audible. Everyone echoed the same sentiment! Although deprived of their tongues, their eyes burned with intense uproar, staring at Ye Tiance, their smiles filled with wicked satisfaction!

 Chapter 062 - The Sect Master Has Passed, Only His Heroic Spirit Remains Amongst the Living

    <h4>Chapter 062 - The Sect Master Has Passed, Only His Heroic Spirit Remains Amongst the Living</h4>

    "A bunch of trash like you think you can save the miscreants of the Sword Pavilion?" Ye Tiance, having worked off his frustration on those inundated with excrement in the ancestral hall, killed with rising exhration.

    "The folk of the Sword Pavilion colluded with demons, setting a trap to harm us loyal Azure Spirit members. Right now, perhaps they are being backstabbed by those very demons. They¡¯ve forged their own doom; they deserve no living quarter!

    "And you bunch of durds think to save them? Try saving yourselves first!" Hisughter, thunderous and unrestrained, echoed into the night.

    Yao Manxue, Zhang Jian, and three hundred Sword Cultivators followed with a chorus of mockingughter.

    "Just look at your impotent fury!" Yao Manxue shook her head, clucking her tongue.

    "Kneel before Sword Venerable Ye now, and you might have a chance to survive, otherwise... hehe!" Zhang Jian threatened, his eyes wide with scorn.

    In front of them, Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, Li Chenlong, and others wore expressions of fiery rage, their eyes gleaming with teeth gritted! Humiliation! Powerlessness! Ye Tiance had yed a timely trick!

    Shangguan Yu and her diminished forces hadn¡¯t stormed forward, and had instead lost several members!

    Even Shangguan Yu and two other Sword Venerables at the Establishment Divine Sea Realm were held back by several at the peak of the same realm, unable to break through for the moment!

    "Even if you break through, what of it? The Moon Fairy''s avatar, a thousand-year-old serpent Demon Emperor, and the three wolf Demon Kings... they''ve likely cleaned out those Sword Pavilion wastes by now!" Ye Tiance chuckled inwardly, his heart basking in delight.

    Thinking of Yun Xiao''s spirit utterly shattered brought him boundless joy!

    "After I sever the pathetic bones of this bunch, I''ll y you, Yun Xiao, stripping your tongue, pulling your tendons, peeling your skin!" Then, imagining Zhao Jianxing inevitably meeting his demise, he felt even more refreshed!

    "You bested me my whole life, but with just two minor schemes, I have you underfoot. Admit defeat, huh, Zhao Jianxing, the great hero?" A torrent of exhration surged through Ye Tiance.

    "Shangguan Yu!" His hawk-like eyes swept over, fixing on the blue-robed woman who opposed him.

    "The cripple you admired is dead. You wanted to share a nest with him, didn¡¯t you? I''ll grant your wish!" With a brutal snicker, Ye Tiance, wielding his Upper Comet grade Golden Plume Sword Soul, swung with his Origin Core Realm magic power, scattering the crowd as thousands of sword rays pointed directly at Shangguan Yu.

    "Despicable viin!" Seeing the sounds of battle and cries from the Sword Pavilion, Shangguan Yu felt her heart fill with an even greater sorrow and anger!

    Now, Ye Tiance wanted to use her as a means to intimidate Azure Spirit! Even if she was a realm beneath him, she still gripped a blue Sword Soul and charged, her eyes filled with the resolve to meet death! She had never feared death!

    But she feared that after her death, there would be no one to cleave the heavens and earth with a sword, to break the demons and evil spirits, to give themon people peace!

    "Demons run rampant, viins prevail, we Sword Cultivators have shamed the heavens and earth, shamed humanity!" Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes were crimson! In front of her, swords and blood flew.

    Scoundrelsughed wickedly! Who could stand up? Her heart drowning in sorrow, she could only sh swords with Ye Tiance with a backbone forged from her sword¡¯s spirit!

    "Hehe!" Ye Tiance thrust out his sword, soaring through the night sky like a golden eagle, shining in golden brilliance, his vast Origin Core Realm magic power erupting majestically, forming a coercive pressure that mmed down on Shangguan Yu!

    Even before the man arrived, his magic power proimed dominance, suppressing another Sword Venerable! This was the prowess of the Origin Core Realm! In front of this golden eagle, Shangguan Yu simply couldn''t resist!

    The golden light pierced through with a sword, imperiously sweeping aside Shangguan Yu¡¯s Sword Soul, pointed directly at her throat. One sword, lethal!

    "Ye Tiance, your doom is ordained by the heavens!" Shangguan Yu, fearless in the face of death, abandoned her defense, stabbing toward Ye Tiance, hoping to exchange lives.

    "You think you¡¯re worthy topare sword speed with me?" Ye Tiance''s innerughter grew even colder. What do you count for? You want to exchange lives with me? He was straightforward, the sword shed golden light!

    How many sword cultivators watched this scene, their eyes nearly bursting from their sockets? But they could only watch in outrage!

    "The second Sword Venerable, dies!"

    Just in this moment of despair¡ª

    A streak of azure light shot through! Sword sounds rang out ten times! Directly stabbing towards Ye Tiance''s head! This sword, breaking through the sky, its sound alone stabbed at everyone¡¯s eardrums, causing them to cease their battles, one and all! Within the azure light, ck smoke was winding around!

    "What?" Ye Tiance''s sinister smile froze on his face, his expression changing dramatically. He hurriedly withdrew his sword, turning around to sh!

    <i>KLANG! </i>His Golden Plume Sword Soul swift as thunder, immediately struck the azure light, sparks flying in all directions, sparing his life by a hair''s breadth! Still, Ye Tiance¡¯s arm went numb, the webs between his fingers splitting open! What kind of unbending sword was this?

    Shock reverberated in Ye Tiance¡¯s heart! In his astonishment, he forgot about Shangguan Yu! She was still fighting him to the death!

    "Huh?" Ye Tiance¡¯s spirit jolted in sudden rm, he dodged hastily, but still fell a step behind.

    <i>SPUTTER! </i>Shangguan Yu''s sword punctured his shoulder de.

    <i>BAM! </i>Wincing in pain, Ye Tiance forcibly expelled her with a savage kick. His hand, stained in the blood that generously flowed from his shoulder, trembled. Fortunately, he evaded swiftly, or else that sword would have skewered his throat.

    "Ten resonances from the sword... Who performed the Ten-Step Scale?!" Ye Tiance bellowed, fury painting his visage as he red toward his rear. Who was it? Who sent that flying sword from the direction of the Sword Pavilion?

    Cultivators, halted by curiosity, cast their gazes unanimously in the anticipated direction. Even Yao Manxue and Zhang Jian paused, astonished. Amidst the collective stare, a youth, swathed in white, bolted from the dark, a sword in hand, and eyes aze with sword rays, riveting the crowd.

    ¡°It¡¯s Yun Xiao! He¡¯s alive!¡± Eyes of Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, and Li Chenlong widened, an unexpected joy surfacing in their eyes.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Just as the youth appeared, another hand emerged from the misty darkness, dragging out a serpent and violently smashing it before the crowd.

    ¡°This is the ck Horn Serpent Demon from the Northern Wastnds!¡± Chen Dong trembled. He had battled this creature and knew its might.

    ¡°Its form has transformed... it has be a thousand-year-old Demon Emperor!¡± Li Chenlong eximed in horror.

    ¡°But it''s dead!¡± Tears streamed down Shangguan Yu¡¯s face, gazing mournfully towards the Sword Pavilion, ¡°Elder Brother Sect Master!¡±

    Chen Dong and Li Chenlong, too, howled in grief, directing their eyes toward the Pavilion.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Cultivators, tears streaking down, knelt towards the Sword Pavilion in a heartfeltment, ¡°Sect Master, for eternity!¡±

    The man had departed. Only his valiant spirit lingered amongst them. Had it not been for the Sect Master¡¯s ferocious final strike, how could this Demon Emperor have perished within Azure Spirit? Ye Tiance, gazing towards the Pavilion, inhaled a sharp, cold breath. A semnce of gratitude shimmered within, thankful that it hadn¡¯t been him to incite thetter.

    ¡°Zhao Jianxing, you truly had guts!¡± Through gritted teeth and withstanding the searing pain in his shoulder, he snarled sardonically.

    ¡°He managed to annihte this sturdy, millennium serpent demon with hisst strike?¡± Even Yao Manxue was rendered speechless with astonishment.

    ¡°No matter! He¡¯s dead; the killing spree canmence!¡± Zhang Jian, regainingposure, cackled sinisterly. His words had barely settled when suddenly, a streak of azure light surged forth.

    ¡°Ah, yes, that was the Ten-Step Scale just now...¡± It dawned on Zhang Jian, just a moment toote. Ten-Step Scale! It seemed like Yun Xiao¡¯s doing? He had no time to react. In that instant, the rampaging azure light struck his shoulder.

    <i>Splurt! "GAGH!" </i>A horrid scream escaped Zhang Jian. His arm flew away, blood spattering across the scene.

    "My hand... Yun Xiao!!" His face was as pale as death, eyes quivering with an indomitable rage that seemed to engulf the heavens.

    "You think your Sword Pavilion, stripped of Zhao Jianxing, can still contend with Swordking Ye?" Zhang Jian roared, though astonishment belied his snarl. How was this kid unleashing the Ten-Step Scale? How many years had the Sword Pavilion been nurturing him in secret?

    Scarcely had the cry left Zhang Jian¡¯s lips than his world bleached white.

    "No...!" He jerked his head upward. The boy in white loomed above, a three-foot azure de plunging down at him!

    "Ahh!" With a heart-wrenching scream, another arm was severed, flung away into oblivion. Zhang Jian twitched, frozen in ce, before his face contorted into a grotesque mask, his scream twisting through the night.

    "You really are despicable," Yun Xiao''s voice sliced through the night, his sword puncturing Zhang Jian¡¯s tongue, reducing the seventh Sword Venerable''s howls to incoherent gargles.

    "You enjoy brown-nosing, do you?

    "In a moment, I''ll stuff Ye Tiance''s flesh into your mouth. I''ll let you tter to your heart''s content!"

    <i>THUD THUD! </i>Two more strikes, and Zhang Jian''s legs were airborne, leaving just his torso, mming down before Yun Xiao.

    "Ugh! Ugh!" Twitching in agony, eyes rolling back, froth at his mouth, terror finally wed its way into his gaze.

    "You cultivated a body of magic power, yet not for the people, not for the Dao, but solely to curry favor. What use have you for this Dantian?"

    Yun Xiao''s cold voice quivered through the night. With another thrust, his de prated Zhang Jian¡¯s abdomen.

    "Ahh¡ª" Curled like a cooked shrimp, Dantian rupturing, his magical power surged out wildly, billowing Yun Xiao¡¯s white robe and ck hair, rendering his crimson eyes even more haunting.

    "The seventh Sword Venerable... is crippled!" Every onlooker''s eyelids twitched uncontrobly. Wasn¡¯t this fate worse than death?

    "Still want to jump around, do you?

    "Still have a nasty tongue?

    "Continue your boot-licking, won¡¯t you?"

    Three sessive shouts from Yun Xiao resonated through the nocturnal abyss. Meanwhile, all Zhang Jian could do was weep, eyes pleading towards Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue.

    His silent entreaty screamed, ''Why aren¡¯t you saving me?''

    But the problem was, how could they? He hadn¡¯t managed to parry even a single stroke! Moreover, after a moment of deathly silence, explosive gasps erupted.

    "A twenty-nineyer Sword Aura?!"

    "A ck Sword Ring, too?!"

    A collective gasp swept through the throng.

    What was with the Sword Aura? And the Sword Ring? As the crowd¡¯s heart quivered between each heartbeat, their gaze shifted to the thousand-year-old serpent demon, and understanding dawned upon them.

    ¡°The Sect Master killed the demon to save his disciple, sacrificed himself for the Azure Spirit, yet left us a Yun Xiao!¡± someone eximed.

    ¡°What are we waiting for?¡±

    Up above, people like Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, and Li Chenlong exchanged nces. All the respect they had held for Zhao Jianxing morphed into fervent passion at that moment.

    ¡°Laughable! What¡¯s the use of a dense Sword Aura? What¡¯s the use of having a Sword Ring? Does he have an Origin Core too?¡± Yao Manxue coldly interjected. Her words galvanized the morale of the three hundred Sword Cultivators, who still ced their faith in Ye Tiance¡¯s camp.

    It was theirst stand! From this moment on, if they chose to stand beside Ye Tiance, Yun Xiao would not give them another chance!

    <i>THUD! </i>He stepped on the blood-spitting Zhang Jian, his indifferent gaze sweeping toward Ye Tiance and Yao Manxue.

    ¡°Ye Tiance, don¡¯t be in a hurry. You¡¯re next!¡± Yun Xiao said with a savage grin.

    ¡°Talking in your sleep, are you?¡± Ye Tiance retorted, his voice dripping with chill.

    ¡°He means he wants to take me down first,¡± Yao Manxue scoffed with a smirk.

    She and Ye Tiance stood together. Did he n to kill her first? As if Ye Tiance didn¡¯t exist?

    ¡°Ignorance fuels your arrogance,¡± Ye Tiance dered, his sword horizontal, stepping forward to confront Yun Xiao, his Golden Plume Sword Soul held ahead. He wasn¡¯t about to indulge Yun Xiao. With Zhao Jianxing dead, what threat did this mere boy pose? Eliminate him, and all would end!

    ¡°Zhang Jian, be at ease. Whatever you¡¯ve suffered, I¡¯ll repay him double!¡± As Ye Tiance spoke, his Origin Core magic power erupted, his entire body shimmering with golden light, a mighty ruler reincarnated, his sword morphing into a formidable eagle, its sharp edge aimed at Yun Xiao.

    And behind him, Yao Manxue stood amidst the three hundred Sword Cultivators, arms folded across her chest, triumphant and self-satisfied!

 Chapter 063 - One Sword Splits the Throat, Ten Thousand Swords Pierce the Heart! (1)

    <h4>Chapter 063 - One Sword Splits the Throat, Ten Thousand Swords Pierce the Heart! (1)</h4>

    ¡°Do you think I can''t finish you off?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s head snapped up with sudden intensity. He barely spared Ye Tiance, who was in the midst of performing his world-dominating suppression, a nce. His crimson eyes locked with relentless intent on Yao Manxue.

    With a hum, his body shimmered, and in the blink of an eye, he was gone! His azure Sword Soul transformed into a six-foot-long Sovereign Sword, suspended mid-air.

    Leaping onto his sword, Yun Xiao sted off, his body morphed into a rushing azure dragon, unstoppable and awe-inspiring. The scene was a fusion of power and grace that left onlookers breathless.

    ¡°Azure Sky Will!¡± The crowd eximed in shock once more. The fastest and the mightiest of Azure Spirit''s Sovereign Sword Techniques! Its name symbolized an indomitable spirit that aimed to sweep the heavens and tten the clouds, unmatched in gantry.

    This Sovereign Sword Technique mirrored Yun Xiao''s current state of mind perfectly. <i>You think I can''t kill you? Think again! </i>And with a sudden eleration, he sped past Ye Tiance. He was so fast, that his figure became a blur, uncatchable by the naked eye, cutting through the army of three hundred Sword Cultivators!

    Yun Xiao plunged into the crowd. His Sovereign Sword instantly morphed into a Palm Sword. With a swift, sure thrust, he plunged the azure de forward.

    ¡°Azure Dragon Squall!¡± Again, the spectators cried out in shock. The sword, much like an azure dragon on the prowl, was swift and fierce.

    Yao Manxue, who had stood smugly off to the side, suddenly found her world tilting. She was so taken aback by the lightning-fast attack that her mind nked, and in a panic, she deflected with her own sword!

    She couldn''t believe that Yun Xiao disregarded Ye Tiance. Even more unbelievable was the fact that he, using Azure Sky Will, couldunch an attack from the front! But even more unexpected was this Azure Dragon Squall...

    ¡°No!¡± she cried out. Her own sword was sent flying, nearly shattered by the force of the impact. A sickening squelch resonated in the air. Yun Xiao¡¯s sword had pierced through her abdomen, severing her Dantian!

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Yao Manxue looked down in horror, her abdomen wrapped in tendrils of ck smoke while her blood and flesh transformed to a thick, inky liquid. This was the terrifying power of the Sword Ring!

    ¡°M-my Dantian! My magic power! My path to Immortality...¡± Yao Manxue spluttered between gushes of blood.

    Beside her, Yun Xiao swiftly withdrew his sword, and the magic power burst forth from the wound in her abdomen, causing it to swell momentarily like that of a frog.

    In her desperation, Yao Manxue locked gazes once again with Yun Xiao, his icy stare only amplified her gnawing fear.

    Yao Manxue, awash in a cascade of anguish and defeat, seethed under the lethal stance of Yun Xiao. Her voice trembled, a futile mix of desperation and defiance.

    "Yun Xiao, with Ye Tiance and three hundred Sword Cultivators here, y-your death is guaranteed!"

    Her voice hardly phased him, "Even with ten thousand at your side, I¡¯ll y you a hundred times over!" His sword, an ethereal stream of silver, danced through the air with lethal precision.

    "No, please..." Yao Manxue''s plea hung unfinished in the air, a sorrowful melody caught amidst the symphony of impending demise. She almost knelt, but in the next heartbeat, her limbs were soaring separately away from her frame.

    A beauty, now a gruesome spectacle.

    "Yun Xiao, you¡¯ll meet a bitter end... ah!" Her cries, a harrowing dirge, echoed through the silence that followed. Then, a soft thud rang out.

    "Silence!" With an effortless motion, Yun Xiao severed her tongue.

    "Do you think I¡¯ll not meet a good end, Yao Manxue? Did you ponder why I didn¡¯t y you outright, opting instead for a macabre show?" He snorted, scorn coloring his voice, "No, no! Today, I will ensure you all¡ªcohorts of demons¡ªmeet an end even more abominable than theirs!"

    Hearing the youthful yet chilling vow, Yao Manxue crumbled entirely, a broken husk of despair. Fear, stark and resonant, reced the defiance in her eyes as they desperately sought Ye Tiance, her only strand of hope against a dreadful demise.

    Ye Tiance, upon witnessing the cruel eradication of his twopetent subordinates, especially Yao Manxue, ignited into a tempest of rage! Yun Xiao debilitated his beloved mistress, Manxue, under his very gaze, subjecting him to an unparalleled dishonor, a myriad of metaphorical ps crashing upon his visage.

    His face, darkening and swelling, became a map of fury. Yun Xiao was treading upon his dignity while massacring his people. Yet, he remained the undoubted paramount of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect!

    Anguish and wrath bubbled within Ye Tiance, who hadn''t anticipated that such a shift in the situation could have arisen from the emergence of this youth.

    Where was Moon Fairy? Where were the other demons? Confusion muddled his thoughts, but at that moment, he had but one choice. And that was to strangle this prodigiously talented disciple of the Sword Pavilion in the cradle!

    Forget ten days; he could not grant this monstrosity even one more day! A day too much and Ye Tiance feared that even Ye Guying might fall under his sword.

    ¡°We can still dispose of him now! All righteous warriors of the true path, follow me to execute this demon-spawn nurtured by malevolent beings!¡± With a furious swipe, Ye Tiance unsheathed his sword.

    ¡°Kill!¡± The three hundred Sword Cultivators, having always steadfastly shared his path, still believed wholeheartedly in this master of the Origin Core Realm¡¯s ability to control the battlefield.

    ¡°Kill!¡± How would Shangguan Yu and the others allow Yun Xiao to be besieged? At that moment, they all thundered with rage, electric with vehement fury! Fervor for Yun Xiao! Anguish for the Sect Master! Remorse for the righteous Azure Spirit! Only through ughter, can they honor the swords in their hands!

    ¡°y!¡± Yun Xiao''s sessive ughters of two Sword Venerables once again shook Azure Spirit. In just this short time, even more people had gathered. They''d witnessed all of Ye Tiance''s shamelessness and even with Ye Guying suppressing them, they couldn''t suppress the people¡¯s hearts!

    Help was plentiful for the just, scarce for the unjust! More and more Sword Cultivators entered the battlefield, shing to the death with Ye Tiance¡¯s followers! Chaos erupted once more! A thousand swords flew, blood sttered! And there, in the epicenter of the battlefield, under the gaze of countless eyes, the young man in blood-stained white sprang into action!

    <i>HUM! </i>Without hesitating, Yun Xiao in the Late Divine Sea Realm struck toward the Sword Venerable in the Origin Core Realm!

    ¡°Yun Xiao, without magic power to support you, what use is a denser Sword Aura, and more exquisite swordy?¡± Ye Tiance sneered venomously. Saying this, however, with a swing of his sword, he realized a de had pierced his shoulder de, impeding a third of his fighting power!

    ¡°I, even wounded, will easily deal with you!¡± Ye Tiance channeled his magic power, holding his sword with both hands. The magic power swirled around him like a golden storm!

    His Golden Plume Sword Soul, likeyers of feathers covering it, and a circr Sword Ring encircling the Sword Soul, gave his Sword Aura a bewitching method of emitting blinding golden light!

    ¡°Die!¡± He deployed his Upper Comet grade Palm Sword Technique, Thousand Feathers Goldjade Sword, aiming it straight at Yun Xiao. The Sword Aura howled, and onlookers dared not approach. His might bolstered the confidence of the three hundred Sword Cultivators exponentially!

    <i>BUZZ! </i>In the face of such divine power, Yun Xiao abruptly moved. His right hand erupted with an azure light, and a Flying Sword was fiercely hurled! The sword shot into the emptiness, creating sessive explosions!

    ¡°Ten-Step Scale again? You think I''m not familiar with it?¡± This was a Flying Sword technique that Ye Tiance had studied his entire life! He knew it all too well! Every sword explosion, every sh of scale light, every rotation, he knew it through and through! He scoffed, slicing again with his sword!

    His Palm Sword was even fiercer. As long as it hit its target, it could cut down the Flying Sword! As for if it missed... well, fortune favored the bold!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>The Ten-Step Scale¡¯s azure light exploded ten times in the night sky, arriving before Ye Tiance.

    ¡°At such a young age, with the sword sounding ten times, this talent in sword technique is unparalleled even in the Sea of Swords!" In this, Ye Tiance respected Yun Xiao! Ten sword sounds were too terrifying.

    "One! Two!" Ye Tiance, with ears keen, silently counted as the sounds emanated through the space. When the eighth sound pierced the air, his sword was thrust forward, the Golden Plume Sword Soul fiercely cleaving through the space!

    "Shatter!" Although the Flying Sword was fierce, it was delicate, wasn''t it? His eyes erupted with golden light, anticipating the first sh to break the Flying Sword, then to ughter Yun Xiao! His confidence was boundless, but his sword sliced through only air!

    That azure Flying Sword, like a nimble fish, took a sudden twist under his de, suddenly ringing out again! <i>KLANG! </i>The azure Flying Sword whirled back unexpectedly, skimming past Ye Tiance''s Golden Plume Sword Soul, and powerfully rocketed towards his throat!

    "Eleven steps, impossible!!!" He had studied the Ten-Step Scale for a lifetime! Eighteen years ago, in his duel with Zhao Jianxing, even three steps of Zhao Jianxing¡¯s Ten-Step Scale couldn''t be stopped! He had researched it for a lifetime! How could the sword ring out eleven times?! His mind went nk in an instant!

    The azure Flying Sword, grazing his Golden Plume Sword Soul, was like a swordfish suddenly darting out from under the water, sending sparks flying!

    <i>PUFF!</i> Ye Tiance felt a chill in his throat! Moving as fast as he could to evade, he was still swept by the sword''s tip, his throat and windpipe slit open on the spot!

    "Aghh!" His eyes bulged, blood spurting violently from his throat! A sword slit open his throat! He was stupefied, dumbfounded! What in the world kind of technique was this?!

    Eleven steps! In this heart-stopping moment, he rapidly took numerous pills and elixirs from his Pouch of Holding; half applied externally, and the other half stuffed directly down his sliced throat. At that moment, his hands trembled immensely, many Spirit Stones from the Pouch of Holding scattering all over the ground!

    "No, no, no!" Ye Tiance screamed! After applying the pills and elixirs, his wounds quickly began to heal and improve. But, too much time had been lost! In that instant, he suddenly saw that white figure with an azure sword, already bearing down upon him!

    The malicious glint in the young man¡¯s eyes, at this moment, made Ye Tiance feel as if he''d plummeted into hell!

    <i>Azure Dragon Squall! Second Move¡ªAsk the Heavens!</i>

    This sword, with its wrathful dragon emerging, possessed an aura that shook the heavens!

    The azure flying dragon, tainted with a Sword Ring of ck poisonous mist, roared furiously. The energy of Primordial Void Technique and the deathly sword aura of the Sword Soul mixed together in a dual blend! Life and death, the might of a single sword, stunned the entire field!

    "I am in the Origin Core Realm!" Ye Tiance bellowed, though his voice leaked through the wind. The severe pain in his throat and shoulder de rendered his Golden Plume Sword Soul somewhat unstable. Even though he managed to unleash a grandmaster sword intent with a hastily executed strike, it failed to fend off Yun Xiao¡¯s azure dragon sword.

    White robes fluttering, a sword cleaved like a dragon!!

    <i>KLANG! </i>The Sword Souls collided head-on, an eye-piercing light illuminating the night sky, followed by a sharp, tremendous noise.

    <i>CRACK CRACK CRACK! </i>Ye Tiance retreated three steps, cracks manifesting on the golden Sword Soul in his hands! A stream of azure-ck mist prated his Sword Soul, infiltrating his sword bone along the soul and viciously coursed toward his entire body through the Sword Ring.

    "My Sword Soul!" Ye Tiance''splexion turned ghastly pale! His throat continued to bleed, shoulder de throbbing in agony, and as the poisonous mist entered, his scalp tingled, and a chill cascaded down his spine.

 Chapter 064 - One Sword Splits the Throat, Ten Thousand Swords Pierce the Heart! (2)

    <h4>Chapter 064 - One Sword Splits the Throat, Ten Thousand Swords Pierce the Heart! (2)</h4>

    "The Origin Core Realm, is this all it is?" The icy voice of the young man seemed like a ferocious wind pping against his face. Ye Tiance hastily lifted his head, only to see an azure sword light already thrusting towards his abdomen.

    "Ten-Step Scale again!" In that instant, tears surged from Ye Tiance''s eyes. He knew that he couldn¡¯t block this sword anymore! This white-robed young man, merely sixteen, had already shattered him! With the explosive noise of the Ten-Step Scale, sword after sword spiraled!

    <i>PSSHT! </i>A stream of azure light sted through Ye Tiance''s Dantian! An Origin Core was thrust out by the sword tip of the Flying Sword, directly exploding behind Ye Tiance!

    <i>BOOM! </i>The Origin Core burst, causing the forests of the Azure Spirit Mountain to tremble! With a miserable scream, Ye Tiance, back drenched in stagnated blood, was blown towards Yun Xiao.

    "No! No!" Veins bulging, Ye Tiance¡¯s eyeballs nearly popped out! Reaching a hand to his abdomen, he felt an empty void. Completely powerless, he was in agony, worse off than a mortal! "My Origin Core!"

    Gone! Utterly obliterated! Ye Tiance felt as though thousands of swords pierced his heart! He''d felt stifled before, but never as desperate as he was at this moment. With the Origin Core shattered, there was no path to immortality, no future left!

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>He was blown away by his own Origin Core right in front of Yun Xiao!

    <i>THUMP! </i>The young man casually seized his neck, and, like nailing a wooden stake, mmed him into the ground with a thud!

    Ye Tiance copsed to his knees.

    Yun Xiaopelled him to kneel before the mountainous expanse of the Sword Pavilion! To bow to the seven prodigies of the Sword Pavilion! To submit to Zhao Xuanran!

    <i>SWOOSH SWOOSH! </i>With a sweep of two swords, Ye Tiance¡¯s arms flew off, his face morphing into the color of a pig''s liver!

    ¡°Aghh!¡± A gush of ck blood erupted from his mouth.

    ¡°Bow your head!¡± As the dark blood hit the ground, Yun Xiao grasped his head, smashing it into the pooling liquid, forcefully making him kowtow. <i>BANG BANG!</i> His head was smashed against the muddy bloodied earth.

    Ye Tiance¡¯s head cracked, nose shattered, his face punctured with countless holes from the jagged rocks!

    ¡°Sword Venerable Ye, thought you were quite the powerhouse, did you? Well, how about now?¡± Yun Xiao ground his foot into Ye Tiance¡¯s head, burying it in the muck!

    Ye Tiance whimpered and convulsed! The once mighty tyrant, now squirmed and wailed beneath Yun Xiao¡¯s foot like a beaten cur!

    ¡°Weren¡¯t you proiming the orthodoxy of the Azure Spirit? Where¡¯s your backbone now? Stand tall and show me, why don¡¯t you?!¡±

    Twitching, Ye Tiance stammered in desperation, ¡°Yun Xiao! Let¡¯s talk, we can talk this through!¡±

    ¡°To hell with talk!¡± Yun Xiao stomped hard. Ye Tiance¡¯s ribs snapped with a crisp sound, his howls of pain permeating the air, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you threatening me with Ye Guying now? Speak, why don¡¯t you?¡±

    Blood kept pouring from Ye Tiance, his eyes dimming with impending doom.

    ¡°Oh, I remember now, he¡¯s got at least eight more days of seclusion, doesn¡¯t he? How hrious, you, so high and mighty, yet, crumbling under my feet within two days!¡±

    Yun Xiao stomped again!

    ¡°I told you, by the time Ye Guying returns to Azure Spirit, your Ye Family will be nothing but mountains of corpses and rivers of blood! Just ten days of seclusion, and look at you now!¡±

    For Yun Xiao, that was more than enough!

    ¡°Your family is great, isn¡¯t it? Your followers are numerous, right? Fine! Kneel there nicely for me, and watch as I obliterate everyst one of these blind fools around you!¡±

    Standing atop Ye Tiance¡¯s head, he suddenly looked up.

    <i>SWOOSH! </i>Three hundred Sword Cultivators simultaneously stepped back! With eyes wide in horror and souls practically leaping from their bodies, they stared, breathless, at this white-robed devil before them! He really was a devil!

    But this young man, with his celestial countenance, even in this moment, resembled an immortal descended from the heavens to enact a massacre! Though covered in blood, an ethereal air enveloped him, making it difficult to associate him with brutality!

    From the moment the sword pierced Ye Tiance''s throat, the Sword Cultivators'' spirits fractured, shattering into irreparable shards of disbelief and despair. Their eyes, once alight with purpose and strength, zed over in stark astonishment. Their souls, scattered to the wind!

    Particrly after Yun Xiao''s diatribe, a speech of seemingly unwavering conviction. They had considered Ye Guying''s position, for sure, firm in their stance. But here was the conundrum¡ª

    Eight days still stood between them and Ye Guying''s arrival. Eight days that lingered like an eternity, seemingly longer than eight years. When their eyes, fraught with confusion and fear, met Yun Xiao''s, now a maelstrom of sword-like piercing intensity, dread sank its ws deep into their being.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Knees began to hit the ground. From the first surrender, others tumbled after, kneeling in an anxious, desperate cascade before Yun Xiao. In a mere heartbeat, three hundred people, all were prostrate.

    "Yun Xiao, we pledge to honor you as the new Sect Master of Azure Spirit, to lead the Sword Pavilion, to again be the rightful leader of Azure Spirit!¡± Their voices melded into one, foreheads beaded with sweat.

    Six days! A youth, who had appeared at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect just six days prior, had managed to grind the strongest of Azure Spirit under his heel, leading the dpidated Sword Pavilion and single-handedly ughtering a Demon Emperor and Sword Venerables, forcing three hundred Sword Cultivators of the Divine Sea Realm to their knees!

    Who would not quake inwardly at such a tale? As they knelt, despair burrowed into the hearts of Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian, corroding all hope.

    "It''s over! It''s all over!" Zhang Jian wailed inwardly. Indeed, their hearts still harbored thoughts of Ye Guying! But Ye Guying couldn¡¯te to the rescue! They were ruined! Surviving these eight days was an impossibility! In that moment, the three Sword Venerables smelt the spectral whiff of the gates of hell.

    "Yun Xiao, grant us a chance! Let us fight for Azure Spirit alongside you!"

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Three hundred Sword Cultivators, bowing their heads!

    Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, Li Chenlong, and the thousands of Sword Cultivators gathered around, at that moment, all eyes were locked onto Yun Xiao. Their eyes were already flooded with awe and shock. This, of course, included Zhao Xuanran, standing in the distance!

    In the night wind, the beauty in the dark gown leaned against a tree, barely maintaining her stance.

    All one could see were her reddened eyes and the shimmering hot tears within them... In her eyes, her Junior Brother Yun was a wanderer of the mortal realm, a youth of passion, fearlessness, vitality, and one who ferociously cleaved injustice!

    He was unparalleled in talent! He was also driven by greed, wrath, and obsession, a mind both broad and exacting, delighting in love and vengeance! So, when these three hundred Sword Cultivators begged for mercy, what would he do? All eyes, in unison, turned toward him.

    "Grant them mercy. Have them y demons to atone..." a soft voice suggested.

    "Indeed! No one is without faults except the sage!"

    A collective sigh floated through the air.

    The three hundred Sword Cultivators exchanged nces, hope flickering in their eyes, and they lifted their heads to gaze at Yun Xiao. However, In the eyes of the youth in white, there resided nothing but profound cruelty.

    A chillingugh suddenly escaped his lips. "You three hundred sought personal gains, betraying conscience and morality! Once you cross a line, countless more will follow!"

    "Do you dare say that when Ye Guying returns, you won''t be his dogs again, turning your swords on your brothers and sisters of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect?"

    With these words, a shudder ran through the Sword Cultivators.

    One of them proimed loudly, "Rest assured! We will correct our mistakes and not err again!"

    "Do you take me for a three-year-old?" Yun Xiao swiftly drew his Sword Soul, pointing it at them and dered vehemently, "In this world, many mistakes can be forgiven, many have a chance to rectify their wrongs. But as a human, conspiring with demons is something I do not have the authority to forgive on behalf of those innocents harmed by the demons!

    "This is an unforgivable sin. Your deaths would not be pitied!"

    "Yun Xiao, you phrase it nobly, but all you desire is to monopolize Azure Spirit and eliminate dissent!" Someone stood, using with sorrowful anger.

    No sooner had the words fallen an azure de pierced through his mouth. With a wet thud, he flew out of the crowd, dead by the time he hit the ground.

    "I will wipe them all out. Any objections?!" Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze swept over the thousand Sword Cultivators, including Shangguan Yu.

    "y them!!" Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, Li Chenlong, and others drew their Sword Souls, leading the enraged Sword Cultivators into immediate action. Not a hint of hesitation was present! Right and wrong twisted, but everyone knew in their hearts what was clear, and moral condemnation alone could not blur the lines.

    Justice resided in the hearts of the people! Persisting in injustice would bring about one''s own demise!

    The Sword Cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect finally rose, defending the dignity of this sacred demon-yingnd! Against those who lost their original hearts, they wielded their final killing sword!

    Yun Xiao, holding the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, plunged into the crowd! With every rise and fall of his hand, a sword took a life! The three hundred Sword Cultivators, their momentum gone, encircled, found no way to escape! Regret and fear washed over them. But what use were these emotions now?

    When Ye Tiance brought demons into the sacrednd of Azure Spirit, and they still firmly stood by him, flipping right and wrong, even scoffing at the killing of Azure Spirit Sword Sect''s cultivators, it constituted an irreconcble vengeance!

    "When you descend into the underworld, ask your ancestors whether your deeds today bring honor to your family or eternal shame to your forebears!

    "Ask them for what cause they died, and why you basked in self-satisfaction!"

    Yun Xiao, once a mortal, once a ruler of a nation, harbored a vehement hatred towards demons! One bloody demon, feasting on themon folk, leaving a city littered with desated corpses, creating a real-life horror story! Those haunting images, he''d carry them for life, etched permanently in the canvas of his memory.

    "You all practice cultivation, not to shield the weak, not to uphold justice, but to grapple for power, to act in sheer self-interest. Tell me, how in hell is that called being an Immortal?!" He addressed them, the same as he had once addressed Ye Guying.

    This was the embodiment of Yun Xiao¡¯s deep-seated rage! He died for it! Once dead, defying the heavens to be reborn, returning to the mortal realm, he aimed to use this Creator Immortal body and his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, to seek out an answer!

    Having been humble, having been ordinary, he knew the struggles of the world! With the powerful acting unjustly and the universe acting ruthlessly, who would stand and speak for the people? What did it mean to be an Immortal, anyway?

    All Yun Xiao knew was, every being his sword struck down was no Immortal, they were merely the lucky ones bestowed with the talent of sword cultivation!

    Lowly beings, all of them! His sword, it showed not a shred of mercy. If he could eradicate them directly, he''d not hold back even half a strike! Dressed in white, wielding his azure sword, his path was painted with rivers of blood!

    Regret? It was toote for that! Therey Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, Zhang Jian, discarded together, eyes vacant, watching as Yun Xiao severed all they had! A host of surviving members of the Ye Family wailed in disarray! They knew, their survival merely presaged a more gruesome demise toe!

    When Yun Xiao first appeared, Ye Tiance''s entire family was still bellowing in defiance. Unable to voice a cry, all werepelled to shout a singr word¡ªkill! And now, they could only weep!

    In the end, three hundred Sword Cultivators were all reduced to lifeless bodies! Those who remained were, for the most part, the true Swords of Azure Spirit! In the final moments, this offered Yun Xiao a constion!

    The Azure Spirit, it endured! With them, everything persisted! They rallied around Yun Xiao, eyes aze with fervent red, gazing at the youth who carved a bloody path before them.

    Victory was theirs! It was exhrating! But... Shangguan Yu, gazing towards the Sword Pavilion, couldn¡¯t stave off the pain in her heart.

    "It''s a pity, Elder Brother Zhao will never see all this!" She spoke, a intive note coloring her words.

    "Aunt Yu, my father isn''t dead," Zhao Xuanran softly uttered.

    "What?"

    The entire assembly stood agape.

    "But the thousand-year-old Demon Emperor..."

    "Junior Brother Yun Xiao killed it," the woman in the ck gown turned toward him.

    <i>HUM! </i>The crowd erupted into uproar, gazes frozen upon Yun Xiao. Realization finally dawned. No wonder he could ovee Ye Tiance!

    Even if Ye Tiance had been injured, he wasn''t an easy opponent... Countless Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators felt a surge of emotion, sweeping through them like a torrent. The Sect Master wasn¡¯t dead!

    "Oh, fortunate! So fortunate! The Sword Pavilion Seven can rest in peace in the afterlife!" Tears welled up in Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes.

    On the other hand, hearing that Yun Xiao had in the thousand-year-old serpent Demon Emperor, Ye Tiance spilled another mouthful of blood, his gazepletely dimming. He¡¯d utterly lost this battle. He¡¯d underestimated Yun Xiao and the Ten-Step Scale! How would Yun Xiao deal with them?

    The young man suddenly turned around, his gaze chilling as itnded on Ye Tiance and the three Sword Venerables, as well as the entire Ye Family!

    "Chain them all up for me!" he ordered sharply. "I will use their lives to wee my senior brothers and sisters home!"

    With Yun Xiao¡¯s words, the whole scene boiled over! Dark Abyss Mountain, the Bluedrop g! An eternal sorrow in the hearts of the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators!

    ¡°It¡¯s hard to calm down!!¡±

    The Sword Pavilion Seven, who had in twenty thousand demons and spirits! Dying in a foreignnd! Their souls unable to find their way home! On the Bluedrop g, when would the insulted loyal souls rest in peace? When would the pain of the Azure Spirit be relieved?

    "After executing the traitors, we will march north to y demons, to decide life and death with the Northern Wastnd Demon Emperor, and lead the souls home...!"

    At that moment, a fiery passion burnt in the hearts of all the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators!

    They¡¯d waited for this day for far too long!

    "Creator!" Just as they had tied up Ye Tiance and the others, Blue Star suddenly yelled sharply in his arms.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    "Another one, a corpse-wrapping veil demon, is sneaking towards Grand Hall! Quick, go back!" Blue Star shouted.

    The Grand Hall! Zhao Jianxing was still there!

 Chapter 065 - Moon Fairy, Seed of Creation

    <h4>Chapter 065 - Moon Fairy, Seed of Creation</h4>

    Impudent demon! Daring to approach at this juncture? Yun Xiao erupted with ferocious resolve, wielding his Sovereign Sword, Azure Sky Will, transforming into a beam of cerulean light that shattered the night sky, the sword''s whistle reverberating through the abyss of darkness.

    "Follow him!"

    "Drag Ye Tiance along too!"

    The Sword Cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect ascended on their Sovereign Swords, chains dragging along three Sword Venerables and members of the Ye Family, rising through the air!

    Followers of Yun Xiao, nearly two thousand and still multiplying, surged forth.

    Beneath the moonlight of the Sword Pavilion, Yun Xiao slew the millennium-old snake demon, and furthermore incapacitated three great Sword Venerables. This battle aplishment, earth-shattering and soul-stirring, naturally began to sweep through Azure Spirit, bing the hot topic amongst all.

    "Three years! The treacherous demon, finally tasting retribution, is indeed satisfying!"

    A truth known to all! Three years, no one dared to speak. And now, with Ye Tiance trodden underfoot, thousands of Sword Cultivators within Azure Spirit could finally hold their heads high. No longer stifling their existence!

    "Ye Guying has made a name throughout the Sea of Swords, ascending into the Forbidden Tower!"

    "But will Yun Xiao be any weaker than him?"

    The Azure Spirit Sword Sect, in exterminating evil, was more akin to excising a malignant tumor. Even if weakness was imminent in the short term, without destruction, there could be no establishment!

    "This is the Azure Spirit of yesteryears!"

    It was back! Everything has returned.

    "Protect the Sect Master!" Thousands of Sword Cultivators bellowed in infuriated roars, following Yun Xiao to ughter back into the Sword Pavilion. Though the people had not yet arrived, their momentum was immense. Thousands voiced their righteous indignation, boldly and uprightly, causing the evil spirits to naturally retreat!

    That demon had not anticipated Ye Tiance to be defeated so quickly! Even less did it expect to be sniffed out by Blue Star. As it quietly pounced towards the vast hall, an old blind man and two elders drew their swords to counter, with a streak of azure light tearing through the sky from afar!

    Just a blink, and that overwhelming killing intent had locked onto the demon!

    "Flee!" The demon, having failed to strike down the Grand Hall, had panic throbbing in its heart. This chunk of grey-white, malodorous veil revealed its original form, darting into the mountain forest.

    "You''vee twice, yet think you can escape alive?"

    A surge of a chilling voice enveloped it!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>The sound of a sonic boom echoed ten times! This was a sound that could frighten even a dying Ye Tiance into bing a jumping corpse.

    <i>Ten-Step Scale!</i>

    Flying Swords assaulted! The swords shed ten times, like a fish breaking the water''s surface, with each twist, the scale¡¯s light shimmered! In the night sky, ten blossoms of water sshed open.

    "Ah, Ah, Ah!" The veil demon shrieked, its voice a grating cacophony. It had wrapped itself around countless corpses, and its voice¡ªa meld of male and female timbres, was a piercing testament of vengeful anger.

    <i>RIP! </i>In its frenzied escape, a Flying Sword, aze with ck smoke, streaked through the sky, tearing through its grey-white fabric, splitting the veil demon in two.<i> </i>

    "Scoundrel!" Surprisingly, each half of the veil demon fled separately. It seemed that tainted demons, vengeful spirits, were even more bizarre and mysterious in their ways than beast demons! However, a fundamental truth held firm!

    Yun Xiao''s sword pinned one piece of white cloth, rushing forward, he stomped on another with his legs!

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>The distant piece of cloth was shredded into pieces by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul! The piece under his foot, however, was controlled by Yun Xiao!

    "Think you can escape?" Yun Xiao''s Sword Ring of dark fog surged towards the demon, as its form rapidly decayed into a putrid ck liquid.

    "Your name is Yun Xiao, isn''t it?" A pale, ghastly face emerged from the specter, ring malevolently at him.

    "What of it?" Yun Xiao replied, icy cold.

    "The ninth son of the Sword Pavilion? I killed your senior brother, Cai Qingyun, I wrapped him up, ate his flesh. Thed, he didn''t utter a sound, haha..." The veil demonughed hideously.

    "..." Yun Xiao fixed a deathly stare at it.

    "Boy, what can you do by killing me? Aren¡¯t the souls of your seven senior brothers and sisters still hanging on my Dark Abyss Mountain in the Northern Wastnds? If you¡¯re brave, go and save them! Azure Spirit is your territory, what''s the use of being arrogant here? If you¡¯re capable, go to the Bluedrop g, and listen to the Seven Prodigies of your Sword Pavilion wailing day and night, huh?" The veil demonughed unrestrainedly.

    "You''re trying to lure me to the Northern Wastnds?" Yun Xiao''s voice was a frosty whisper.

    "Do you dare?" The veil demon sneered.

    "You have a spirit too, don''t you?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "What are you getting at?" The veil demon''s voice was a chilly hiss.

    Yun Xiao, lifting his head to address Shangguan Yu and others who had pursued him, asked, "Who can imprison it?"

    "I can!" Li Chenlong stepped forward, producing a gourd, presumably an item of immortal path.

    Without another word, Yun Xiao shattered the veil demon, and allowed Li Chenlong to step forward, capturing its spirit!

    "Yun Xiao, what will you do?" The veil demon screeched.

    "As you wish, to your Northern Wastnds!" Yun Xiao smirked.

    "Hahahaha!" The veil demon didn¡¯t add more words, butughed wildly and contemptuously. Even Zhao Jianxing and the Sword Pavilion Seven had met their demise on Dark Abyss Mountain! Yet, a mere child like you dared to go to the Northern Wastnd, hoping to bring back your Azure Spirit heroes?

    All of these words, it kept to itself, never uttering them aloud. For fear that if spoken, Yun Xiao might lose his nerve!

    Azure Spirit prevented the demons from heading south! However, the Northern Wastnd was also a forbiddennd for Sword Cultivators.

    Why did the Northern Wastnds Demon Emperor imprison the souls of the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion? It was a sheer act of humiliation, set up as a trap to lure out heroes, only to y them!

    This scheme, time-tested, was foolproof. The veil demon chuckled, ensnared within Li Chenlong''s gourd.

    ¡°Also take the remaining souls of the Serpent Emperor and the three Wolf Kings,¡± Yun Xiao directed.

    ¡°Understood!¡± Although Li Chenlong held the title of Sword Venerable, from this moment on, his eyes resolved, obediently following Yun Xiao¡¯s orchestrations.

    Meanwhile, another Sword Venerable, Chen Dong, was dragging Ye Tiance and others, forcing these defeated figures to kneel before the magnificent Sword Pavilion¡¯s Grand Hall.

    ¡°Master!!¡± A heart-wrenching scream pierced the silent tension.

    Ye Tiance, eyes trembling, looked toward the source, only to see Jiang Yue copsed on the ground, a picture of despair, disbelief written in her eyes. She was already pitiful enough! But Ye Tiance, he was a hundred times more miserable! In her heart, he was the strongest in the Azure Spirit, a being she respected immensely.

    Upon the Sword Inheritance tform, she had received a Divine Sea Pill, was even epted as a disciple by the First Sword Venerable¡ªwasn¡¯t that a splendid moment? Who could remember that was merely six days ago?

    In just six days, the god in her heart was toppled from his pedestal! And he was more miserable than her.

    <i>Who did this? </i>Jiang Yue, teeth chattering, sought the youth who was being respectfully surrounded by the sect''s Sword Cultivators! She had already noticed that everyone admired him immensely, treating him with utmost reverence. The culprit who crippled Ye Tiance was ringly obvious...

    ¡°That evening, during the Sword Debate, Master told me whoeverughsst,ughs best... Now, is there a <ist </i>anymore?¡± Despair enveloped Jiang Yue''s heart! Her master, after all, wouldn¡¯t see thest!

    ¡°Jiang Yue.¡± Suddenly, a calm voice emerged from behind.

    Jiang Yue shuddered violently, spinning around. She didn¡¯t even realize when the youth hade to stand behind her, gazing at her with such indifferent eyes.

    ¡°Yun Xiao...¡± Jiang Yue¡¯s delicate body quivered, her voice breaking, her knees buckling to kneel.

    ¡°I initially intended to let you linger for a few more days, but now, you sicken me,¡± Yun Xiao dered.

    ¡°Wh-what do you mean?¡± Jiang Yue trembled.

    ¡°You¡¯re so utterly useless, your pathetic state nauseates me; tormenting you brings me no joy,¡± Yun Xiao uttered dispassionately.

    ¡°No, no!¡± Just as Jiang Yue tried to cling to his legs, pleading, Yun Xiao extended a finger.

    <i>POOF! </i>Jiang Yue''s Dantian shattered.

    "Ah!!" Her scream ripped through the air, copsing to the ground, limbs twitching madly, eyes vacant and disoriented.

    "I... have no future..." She was, through and through, finished.

    "From the very start, you and Ye Tiance were birds of a feather," Yun Xiao dered, "You must atone for those you''ve wronged, your fate must be the same as his!"

    Having spoken, Yun Xiao gestured to Chen Dong, instructing, "Uncle Master Chen, bind her as well! Tie her next to Ye Tiance!"

    "Understood!" Chen Dong nodded, showing no mercy.

    "Yun Xiao..." Jiang Yue felt as though her heart might shatter.

    "I must atone for those I''ve wronged? Who have I harmed, what on earth are you talking about?" She wailed at Yun Xiao.

    But Yun Xiao turned away, never to look at her again. Just as he''d said, she was no longer worthy of his attention.

    Before the Grand Hall, Yun Xiao, eyes aze, looked towards the tranquil, azure figure lying within. "Master, wait for me!" Having spoken, he resolutely turned, approaching Shangguan Yu and the others.

    "The treasure vault of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, it requires more than five keys from the Sword Pavilion and the seven Sword Peaks to open, right?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    The treasure vault! This was where the Azure Spirit Sword Sect stored its public resources. Prizes such as the thousand-year-old demon bone, Dragon Spring Pills from the Eight Swords Conve were all taken from here. It also stored the sect''s wealth umted over the years!

    In Yun Xiao¡¯s possession was a massive quantity of personal wealth belonging to individuals like Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian!

    It was certainly a lot, but Yun Xiao still wanted more!

    "Yes." Shangguan Yu, Chen Dong, and Li Chenlong all nodded.

    "The keys of Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and Zhang Jian are all in my hands, you all..." Yun Xiao looked towards the three Sword Venerables.

    "Open it!" The three dered in unison.

    "Everyone, I don¡¯t intend to monopolize the wealth of Azure Spirit but rather..." Just as Yun Xiao began, a ck silhouette behind him suddenly spoke, "Junior Brother Yun, there''s no need to exin. Everyone believes in you!"

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao nodded, turning towards Zhao Xuanran, vowing, "Then I vow I will never owe Azure Spirit anything in this lifetime!"

    "Don¡¯t speak like that." Zhao Xuanran, her eyes gentle, responded. "You are a part of Azure Spirit, we build each other up, where does the question of owinge from? Just remember one thing, with a man like you, even death would be worthwhile!"

    "Well said!" Li Chenlong eximed.

    "Yes..." Shangguan Yu gazed into the grandeur of the Grand Hall, her heart awash with a tumultuous sea of emotions.

    "It''s worth it!" she dered.

    Yun Xiao, standing before a throng of Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators, each pair of eyes ame with fervent anticipation, felt a fire roaring within his chest. Without hesitation, he announced, "Grant me three days!"

    He needed three days to open the treasure vault!

    "And after three days, what will happen?" Zhao Xuanran asked.

    Yun Xiao drew a deep breath. "We will wee the Sword Pavilion Seven back home!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Three days passed in the blink of an eye. On this day, nearly all of the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators, those beyond the Dragon Spring Realm at least, gathered at the Sword Pavilion.

    There were three thousand people in total! Their eyes surged with sword light, and within their chests, a zing fire rolled. Cai Maomao and Qin Tong were amongst them.

    The Northern Wastnds! They would go! They had to go!

    "If I can''t bring my brother home, what meaning is there in my continued existence?" Cai Maomao, standing amidst the crowd, gazed feverishly at the white-robed youth approaching. He held a jug of wine in his hand! Every Azure Spirit Sword Cultivator held a cup of wine in theirs!

    "To the Sword Pavilion Seven!" Yun Xiao lifted his jug.

    "To them!" Three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators raised their cups!

    <i>SPLASH! </i>The strong liquor seeped into the earth, their passionate blood sizzling in their hearts.

    "My seven senior brothers and sisters, I''ve never had the chance to drink with you in this life..." Yun Xiao murmured, casting his gaze over the Grand Hall, then at the seven graves far off in the distance. "If there''s a next life, I wish to be your elder brother, protecting your peace throughout your lives!"

    Having said this, Yun Xiao set down his jug, turning and weaving through the crowd. Before himy Jiang Yue, Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, and others, faces pallid, desperately clinging to life, along with the entire Ye Family.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s chilling, murderous gaze sent the hundred-odd people scooting back, a cacophony of sobs and wails erupting. Even Ye Tiance, his eagle eyes and beard, trembled violently. What was this youth intending to do?

    "Blue Star, you said that Moon Fairy is likely a Seed of Creation, right?" Yun Xiao whispered low.

    "A mere Demon Core Realm demon, how could she project herself thousands of miles away? Definitely a Seed of Creation! ording to their ssification system, this Dao Seed Talent can be considered Moon grade." Blue Star spoke with a curl of its lip.

    A Moon grade Seed of Creation!

    Ye Guao''s Golden Dantian, at best, might be considered a Meteor grade Seed of Creation. For the now-fragile Yun Xiao, the Moon grade Seed of Creation was indeed of paramount importance!

    And so, he violently yanked the chains binding Ye Tiance, Jiang Yue, and the others, dragging this string of panicked people upright!

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Swiftly turning on his heel, he pointed his sword toward the Northern Wastnds, ascending into the heavens on his Sovereign Sword!

    "Those unafraid of death, follow me into battle!!!"

 Chapter 066 - Lin Chen, the Sword Princeling

    <h4>Chapter 066 - Lin Chen, the Sword Princeling</h4>

    The Sea of Swords, an immortal ind sitting amongst the clouds. Endless white clouds gathered to form an expansive sea, and from afar, it seemed as if myriad swords hovered above the clouds. Beneath the roiling mists, pces and pavilions emitted radiant colors, akin to heavenly immortal courts.

    To the mortals below, the Sea of Swords was the legendary heaven. Heavenly Immortals, who could fly and tunnel through the earth, possessing a heavenly eye and ears that could hear all, who yed demons and protected the Dao... Of course, all of that was a total lie. These Immortals were too busy trying toprehend the heavens. They hardly cared about the life and death of mortals.

    To the east of the Sea of Swords stood a sword-shaped tower, as straight as a mountain peak, with aura currents surging around it, exuding an immense and upright aura that pierced the heavens.

    The sword-shaped tower, known as Sword Heaven, had a long history in the Sea of Swords. Before the Forbidden Tower was established, it was the orthodox of swordsmanship for over a thousand years, with a profound foundation.

    Now, outside the bustling Sword Heaven, a portly middle-aged man in a yellow robe knelt at the entrance.

    Under the scorching sun,rge beads of sweat dotted his face and hisplexion was slightly pale, perhaps from kneeling too long. His hands and legs were also somewhat trembling. Outside Sword Heaven, where crowds ebbed and flowed, his behavior naturally drew the attention of many sanctified Sword Cultivators.

    Those who could cultivate in Sword Heaven were swordsmanship geniuses selected from all over thend, with a Sword Soul of at least Mid Comet grade as the threshold to Sword Heaven!

    Even a talent like Jiang Yue, who could be a Sword Venerable''s disciple in Azure Spirit, was still not enough for Sword Heaven!

    An Immortal ind in the clouds, abundant with spiritual energy, could hardly bepared with the cave heaven and blessednd formed by the earthly veins of Azure Spirit, could it?

    So, all cultivators in the Sea of Swords were ustomed to practicing above the clouds, like standing at the pinnacle of all living beings, ustomed to standing high and looking down upon others.

    Then, a young man stepped out of Sword Heaven¡¯s entrance! The youth stood upright, eyes as dark as stars, garbed in a dust-free white robe, his aura captivating! What caught the eye was the five-foot sword scabbard he carried on his back, cast from ck iron, with surging sword intent and seemingly very heavy.

    People cultivated Sword Souls, they didn''t need a sword scabbard! So, the sword-bearing youth was somewhat unusual.

    However, this person clearly had a reputation. So, others showed respect, made way for him, and regarded him with admiration. Moreover, no one was curious about what was in his sword scabbard, evidently knowing a bit of the inside story.

    As soon as the sword-bearing youth exited Sword Heaven, his eyes narrowed and he noticed the kneeling portly man!

    ¡°Who kneels before Sword Heaven? What is this?¡± the sword-bearing youth asked a woman beside him.

    ¡°Replying to the Sword Princeling... Apparently, he''s an elder from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect''s Sword Pavilion, who came to see the Great Sword Venerable Ning Yan. He has been kneeling for three days!¡± the woman responded.

    ¡°He wants to see Aunt Ning?¡± the youth¡¯s face was impassive.

    ¡°Yes! He also said that Azure Spirit Sword Pavilion has produced a young man who may have a grade Sword Soul and has shattered their Sword Inheritance Stone.¡± The woman shook her head andughed.

    ¡°Breaking the Sword Inheritance Stone makes you grade? Has their Sword Inheritance Stone be tofu dregs after all these years?¡± The corner of the youth¡¯s mouth lifted slightly.

    ¡°These frogs at the bottom of the well are indeed somewhat amusing.¡± The woman chuckled.

    ¡°It''s really corrupting public morals!¡± The youth with the sword strapped to his back advanced toward Elder Wang, a chilling light shing in his eyes.

    Elder Wang had been kneeling for quite some time, enough to make the world spin before his eyes.

    He sighed internally, "These Sword Heaven folks are truly detached from the mundane world, haughty and disrespectful. Three days on my knees, and no one pays me any mind, s!"

    Just then, an iron boot stepped heavily onto the back of his hand.

    "Heavy!" Elder Wang''s palm immediately turned purple and blue, his face twitching with pain. Whose boot could be so unforgiving? More so, who would step on a person? He lifted his head, intending to argue.

    <i>SHING! </i>At that moment, a cold white Sword Soul pointed precisely at his throat!

    Instantly, a chill sweat soaked Elder Wang, his face turning a deathly pale. He couldn¡¯t clearly see how manyyers of Sword Aura was on that Sword Soul, only feeling an ice-cold sensation seeping into his bones. However, he clearly saw two circling Sword Rings wrapped around it.

    Two Sword Rings! Having two Sword Rings indicated that this person''s Sword Soul had surpassed the Comet grade! It was Moon or even grade!

    "Elder Wang pays his respect to Sword Princeling Lin Chen!" Recognizing the sword and the person, Elder Wang hastily spoke out.

    "Scram." The youth with the sword said coldly, gazing down with profound indifference in his eyes.

    "Yes!" Elder Wang¡¯s voice trembled.

    ¡°Next time I see you kneeling here, your head stays but your body goes tumbling down into the Sea of Swords.¡± The youth continued.

    ¡°Yes! This lowly one will remember!¡± The light dimmed in Elder Wang¡¯s eyes. He knew, having encountered this Sword Princeling all hope was utterly lost! Only at this moment did the youth lift his iron boot.

    Elder Wang lowered his head to see his chubby hand now a mangled, bloody mess. "Sigh..." With a face of destion, he rose. Holding tight to the letter in his hand, he prepared to leave amidst a sea of peculiar gazes.

    Then, a crisp, cold female voice chimed in.

    "Lil Chen!" A woman called out.

    "I pay my respects to Aunt Ning." Lin Chen responded.

    ¡°Aunt Ning? Ning Yan?¡± Elder Wang stealthily turned back, just in time to see a woman emerge from the imposing doors of Sword Heaven!

    She wore a long, ck and red dress that swept the ground, her hair done up high, and her face stately andposed. Although she was a woman of mature years, her excellent upkeep and graceful demeanor were captivating.

    ¡°She resembles Lil Ran...¡± Elder Wang thought silently to himself. Finally, he saw her in person! But regrettably, he dared not speak more, nor even dare to look longer.

    Unexpectedly, the woman named Ning Yan turned to look at Elder Wang, her voice calm, ¡°He wanted to see me, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Aunt Ning.¡± Lin Chen answered, neither humble nor arrogant.

    ¡°How did you step on his hand?¡± Ning Yan looked at the youth.

    The sword-toting young man paused briefly, dering, "Sword Heaven is not some mundane government office, but a sacrednd of the swordsmanship path. How can one kneel at its gates to seek favors? Such acts tarnish its demeanor, so I punished him! If I''ve made an offense, I hope Aunt Ning understands."

    At this, Elder Wang felt a pang of surprise. "I hadn¡¯t expected the mother of Lil Ran to speak up for me," he thought, "Perhaps, with time, her hatred has ebbed somewhat!"

    While he mulled this over, Ning Yan, the dignified woman known to him, approached, her sacred and pure aura slightly overwhelming him. Feeling somewhat unclean in her presence, his bow deepened involuntarily.

    "You¡¯ve misunderstood, Lil Chen," Ning Yan said suddenly to the young man.

    Misunderstood? What did she mean? Elder Wang felt another jolt of confusion.

    "Are you Zhao Jianxing¡¯s man?" Ning Yan''s voice, now cold and detached, lingered before him.

    "Yes!" Elder Wang replied, tension straining his voice.

    <i>SLAP! </i>Suddenly, a sharp p struck across Elder Wang''s face. He cried out in pain, tumbling to the ground with five crimson finger marks now embellishing his cheek.

    "Go back and make it clear to him. If he dares to send anyone here again, I''ll personally go to Azure Spirit and obliterate him!" Ning Yan spoke icily.

    "...Yes!" Elder Wang closed his eyes, a bitter sadness welling within. Oh, the despair! How many years has it been, her daughter has grown up, yet why such unyielding ruthlessness still? Inebriation led to mishaps, but surely, Zhao Jianxing wasn¡¯t solely to me.

    Elder Wang wanted to mention that the letter was written by Zhao Xuanran, that the Sect Master had shattered his sword, his life hanging in bnce... But he thought better of it. Another word, and he feared for his life.

    This woman would surely kill him without hesitation. He felt that murderous aura.

    After delivering her p, Ning Yan pulled out a silk handkerchief, wiped her hand, cast a disgusted nce at Elder Wang, and then said to the young man with the sword, ¡°What I meant was, you hit him too lightly.¡±

    "Yes, Aunt Ning!" The young man offered a faint, mirthless smile.

    Witnessing this, Elder Wang dared not linger. He bowed, muttered a farewell, and with dimmed eyes, turned to leave. He hadn¡¯t taken more than a few steps when someone approached him.

    "Elder Wang!" The neer was a middle-aged man with a beard.

    It was the innkeeper from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect''s Cloud Pavilion!

    "Elder Shangguan Jia of the Second Sword Peak?" Elder Wang blinked in surprise.

    "Yes! My sister sent me to find you. After you left, a major incident urred in Azure Spirit!" Shangguan Jia, visibly excited, announced.

    "What happened?"

    "That Yun Xiao, only sixteen and having spent just six days in total in Azure Spirit, guess what happened?" Shangguan Jia, carried away by his enthusiasm, seemed oblivious to the eyes of the bystanders.

    "Speak!" Elder Wang urgentlymanded.

    "The night you left," Shangguan Jia began, a robustughter warming his words, "he first slew the avatar of the Northern Wilderness Demon Emperor, Moon Fairy. Then he butchered a thousand-year-old serpent demon and, without missing a beat, crippled Zhang Jian, Yao Manxue, and Ye Tiance¡ªall three Sword Venerables!"

    "He''s just sixteen! With just the power of the Divine Sea Realm, he crippled someone in the Origin Core Realm. And believe it or not, he performed eleven steps with the Ten-Step Scale!" Shangguan Jia couldn¡¯t stifle hisughter, it was just too audacious and splendid a tale to hold back.

    "Truly?" Elder Wang tried his best to suppress the excitement surging in his heart, but his voice betrayed a trace of his emotion, rising slightly higher than he''d intended.

    What had brought him to the Sea of Swords? Was it not a plea for help? Now, with Ye Tiance down, was there still a need to plead?

    Admittedly, Ye Guying was strong, but he was now alone and isted. At the very least, they were safe for the time being.

    In this moment, all of Elder Wang¡¯s frustrations and suppressions found release, and even his half-flushed face cracked into a smile.

    "Eh, your hand, your face, how did they get injured?" Shangguan Jia paused, a perplexity dimming his mirth.

    No sooner had his words fallen than a beautiful woman in a ck dress shed into existence among them.

    "Sixteen years old? Six days? Origin Core? Eleven steps on the Ten-Step Scale?" The ck-dressed woman questioned in session, her eyes, cold as ice, fixed on Shangguan Jia.

    "Yes!" Shangguan Jia bowed his head in shock, his mind calcting the extent of Elder Wang¡¯s injuries.

    "If a single word you¡¯ve spoken is false, you will die. Do you understand?" The ck-dressed woman spoke coldly.

    "Absolutely true!" Speaking of Yun Xiao, Shangguan Jia still possessed a sliver of confidence.

    "Whom does that disciple study under?" The woman pressed, her gaze unyielding.

    "The Sect Master of Azure Spirit, Zhao Jian..."

    "That¡¯s enough," she pursed her lips, turning to Elder Wang with an extended hand, "Give me the letter."

    "Yes!!" Elder Wang''s palm trembled, his face alight with ecstatic relief.

    The ck-dressed woman took the letter, her brow furrowing as she scanned it, "Is this a letter from Zhao Jianxing? The handwriting is clearly that of a woman!"

    Elder Wang paused, stunned. Indeed, she hadn¡¯t read a single letter sent over these years.

    "Sword Venerable, this letter was written by Xuanran," Elder Wang humbly informed.

    "Xuanran, who is that?" The woman inquired, an icy chill lining her words.

    A lump formed in Elder Wang''s throat, an inexplicable sorrow welling in his heart. He mourned for that young girl. With tears mingling in his voice, he uttered, "Great Sword Venerable, that girl... she¡¯s already twenty-two years old now..."

 Chapter 067 - With My Arrival in the Northern Wastelands, No Demons Shall Survive!

    <h4>Chapter 067 - With My Arrival in the Northern Wastnds, No Demons Shall Survive!</h4>

    In the very heart of the boundless Sea of Swords, a lofty tower, formidable and solemn, pierced the heavens, its omnipresence cascading a shroud of awe and dread across thends. This was no ordinary edifice, but the Forbidden Tower, a name whispered with reverence and fear.

    One day, a golden haired elder, a countenance of humility painted across his face, approached the formidable structure.

    A dark-robed figure barred his path, brows arching ever so slightly, eyes ice-cold and piercing. "Who dares approach the sacred Forbidden Tower?" the guard demanded.

    "My name is Fan Jing, of the Fan Famiy. I bear urgent news for the tower," the elder hastily replied, none other than Elder Fan himself.

    Ever since the Conve, Elder Fan hastily returned to the Sea of Swords and loitered around the Forbidden Tower.

    "You again?" Impatience fluttered across the dark-robed figure¡¯s face. "Ye Guying has secluded himself for ten days to absorb the sword dao legacy of the Forbidden Tower. He cannot be disturbed. Can you not wait until he emerges?"

    Fan Jing¡¯s voice held a delicate edge of desperation. "Brother Chen, I indeed intended to return in ten days, but cmity has struck the family of the prodigy, Ye Guying. It''s quite the crisis!"

    The robed man hesitated, interjecting with confusion. "Has something happened to the family of the Heaven Chosen, Ye Guying? Isn¡¯t he of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect? Aren¡¯t his adoptive father and brother temporarily in charge?"

    Indeed, the term <i>Heaven Chosen</i> signified a figure of unparalleled talent and stature within the Forbidden Tower.

    "Yes, but a viin has arisen within the Azure Spirit, one most formidable!" Fan Jing continued. "From what I¡¯ve heard, he¡¯s disabled Ye Guying''s adoptive father and brother, usurping control of Azure Spirit! If we don¡¯t apprehend the malefactor before Ye Guying exits seclusion, he may well vanish into the ether!"

    Fan Jing deliberately omitted the fact that Yun Xiao was also a prodigy. There was no need to delve into discussions of the Sword Inheritance Stone that hadn¡¯t been tested, was there? Moreover, Yun Xiao¡¯s talents held no value to the Forbidden Tower. The Tower would never admit two mortal enemies, especially when Ye Guying, already in possession of two grade talents, was peerless.

    The ck-robed figure pondered momentarily, then offered, ¡°Holy Son Chu has good rtions with Ye Guying and has been eager to forge a stronger alliance. I¡¯ll take you to see him.¡±

    Fan Jing¡¯s eyes sparked at the mention of Holy Son Chu. "Thank you, Brother Chen!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Meanwhile, in the Northern Wastnds, a region belonging to the Grand Wastnd, it neighbored the mortal realms.

    This area, separated from the thousand mortal nations by endless mountain ranges, was guarded by the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, which blocked the pathway of the demonic hordes moving south. While formidable demons and Demon Kings could traverse through the boundless mountains, the numerously vast and yet weakly fledgling demons, who could barely morph into human forms, and were essentially on par with the mortal warriors, could not cross the many high peaks.

    This forsakennd, rife with destion and resentment, birthed foul air from the earth and polluted waters from its rivers. Resentment blossomed forth, countless souls lingering, and the day was perpetually shadowed by a dark, ominous aura, turning vegetation demonic.

    For millennia, this realm unknowingly spawned myriad demons, who cannibalized and devoured each other like nourishing poisonous insects. Presently, the Northern Wastnds harbored over a hundred thousand demons, all congregated under the banner of the Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds.

    Despite the Demon Emperor''s true form being a mere fox, its ability to subdue a host of fearsome beasts and foul demons and ascend to power evidenced its terrifying capabilities.

    Three years prior, Zhao Jianxing, the Sect Master of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, along with the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, waged a fierce battle against the hordes of demons, ughtering twenty thousand and sending shockwaves through the thousand mortal nations.

    Mortal gratitude, extolling the descent of a Sword Immortal to rescue the suffering masses¡ªhow little they knew of the shattered sword of the hero, subjected to humiliation?

    Three days prior, a battle at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect had gone unknown to mortals.

    But today, that youth in white, wielding an azure sword, leading three thousand Sword Cultivators, pointed his de towards the Northern Wastnds. He unflinchingly marched towards the demon''s den. In this moment, the act spread like a storm through the world of mortals.

    A generation¡¯s Sword Immortal from the Zhao family, bravely met his end!

    Another emerged, a Sword Immortal from the Yun family, a youngd merelying of age, headed to the north to meet death in the wastnds!

    The shock was even greater!

    Sooner orter, the name Yun Xiao would return to the Cloud Nation... truly worthy of the Yun Family''s heroic lineage!

    Upon hearing that three thousand Sword Cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect headed north to decide a life-and-death struggle with the demons, the entirety of the Northern Wastnds became even more dark and solemn, with a turbulent tide of demons surging!

    Atop Dark Abyss Mountain, a demon fog shot into the sky, like a fox face eclipsing the heavens, eerily malevolent!

    ¡°The emperor summons us!¡±

    Seeing this, the Northern Wastnd¡¯s assorted demons rushed towards Dark Abyss Mountain to assemble!

    In an instant, demons gathered, a tide of evil creatures surged below that fox-like visage, each one with crimson eyes and fanatic expressions! Where they passed, vegetation perished, demonic aura lingered!

    Dark Abyss Mountain was the ce where the Sword Pavilion Seven met their bitter end!

    It was also a ce where the grievances of Azure Spirit''s Sword Cultivatorsy unsettled! Three years, lost souls lingered, a humiliation repeated a myriad of times! Who would dare to go there?

    Now, learning that the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators were heading north to stake life and death, the Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds assembled at Dark Abyss Mountain. It was obviously intending to kill and demoralize, trampling on the very ce where the Sword Pavilion''s Seven Prodigies had met their tragic fate, mocking the three thousand swords of Azure Spirit!

    Who didn¡¯t know of its wicked intentions? On this day, a hundred thousand demons crawled all over Dark Abyss Mountain!

    ¡°Three years ago, this mountain buried the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion!¡±

    ¡°Today, this mountain will bury three thousand Sword Cultivators!¡±

    ¡°From now on, Dark Abyss Mountain will be the grave of Sword Cultivators!¡±

    A deration, chilling and ferocious, echoed like gusts of cold wind through Dark Abyss Mountain!

    Those hundred thousand demons, whether they possessed spiritual intelligence or not, under such demonic words, each roared brutally, their howls shaking the heavens!

    Blood Demons, veil demons, trickster demons, bone demons... countless tainted demons!

    Wolf demons, fox demons, spiders, poisonous insects, and other beasts transformed into demons turned the thousand-mile distance blood-red.

    <i>OOOOH! OOOOH! </i>On the highest peak of Dark Abyss Mountain, a blue g wailed in the wind amidst the encirclement of demons. Seven faces on it stared southwards, their gaze enough to shatter one¡¯s courage!

    Three years! With demons rampant and viins prevailing in perpetual darkness, where was the road home...?

    Looking down, countless fierce demons nestled between these mountains and ravines, some beastly, some half-human, and hundreds of years-old Demon Kings capable of takingpletely human forms.

    Each one of them, with a gruesome face, looked to the south. Corpses still dripping blood from their maws, they howled as the miasma in the air ran wild.

    A streak of pink light materialized beneath the blue g, gazing at the frenzied eyes of a hundred thousand demons. The light transformed into a woman of breathtaking beauty, her skin as white as porcin, so delicate it seemed a mere breath could shatter it. Alluring and seductive, she bore a charisma in every frown and smile, each a lethal temptation. Her form, enveloped in a flirtatious pink mist, and three elongated fox tails further tickling the heartstrings of those who beheld her.

    "Our Empress!" A hundred thousand demons, frantic and wild, especially the male creatures of lesser spiritual wisdom, were helplessly ensnared by her charm. The Empress of the Northern Wastnds! This bewitching creature bestowed upon herself a captivating name, Moon Fairy.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>At that moment, ten humanoid figures emerged from the horde, kneeling before the Moon Fairy. Although humanoid, their faces were fearsome and monstrous, with lingering traces of their demonic origins¡ªdepicting them as green-faced and fanged would be an understatement. Their anthropomorphic forms paled inparison to the Moon Fairy.

    These ten were Demon Kings, each eight hundred years of age, all possessing power that could rival the Sword Venerables of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect!

    Green Fox King, White Vulture King, Spider Queen... each of them frequently ventured south into the mortal nations, inflicting untold ughter and horror. Every single one of them could send the mortal world quaking in fear, rendering ces they visited uninhabitable. Especially in thest three years!

    Without Zhao Jianxing and the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, who could possibly block them?

    Even relying on Shangguan Yu, Li Chenlong, and Chen Dong wasn¡¯t enough; they simply couldn¡¯t kill fast enough. These demons, adept at lurking, escaping, and killing invisibly, now listened to reports of the Moon Fairy¡¯s avatar being in, the Serpent Emperor killed, and for the first time in hundreds of years, three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators assembled to march north for a decisive battle. Naturally, these ten eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings gathered, each more brutal than thest.

    "Greetings, my Empress!" They half-knelt, looking up at the enchanting Moon Fairy, their eyes awash with a surging blood-red light.

    "Three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators, enough for a feast for our little ones!" The Green Fox King grinned malevolently.

    "After devouring these three thousand cultivators, it''s perfect to head south to Azure Spirit, consume that sword sect entirely! We¡¯ll nt our Northern Wastnds g atop the Sword Pavilion''s Grand Hall!" the White Vulture King dered, coldly.

    "Since the establishment of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, it''s always been us attacking them to the south! Even the formidable Zhao Jianxing and the Sword Pavilion Seven didn¡¯t daree north to seek death. This provocation gives us an excuse to ignore the Grand Wastnd Pact and give these wastes a severe lesson!" the Spider Queen sneered maliciously.

    "Once we take Azure Spirit, even our little ones can freely go south and have a good feast!"

    "Then, those thousand mortal nations will be our breeding ground, haha..."

    The remaining Demon Kings spoke in turn, faces twisted into ferocious smiles.

    "A mere mortal, blood rushing to his head, dares toe and sacrifice lives?"

    "The Serpent Emperor was the adopted son of the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord. That kid named Yun Xiao killed the Serpent Emperor and even dares toe and seek death? Conveniently, we can give the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord an exnation," the Spider Queen said, with a chilling tone.

    "I''ve heard from a friend in Azure Spirit before, this kid is pretty brash. Didn¡¯t expect him to be this reckless!" The Green Fox King looked towards the south, a pair of green eyes shing with a dreadfully cold demon light.

    A horde of a hundred thousand demons knelt, a menacing aura surging like a tempest under the sky.

    Moon Fairy, a figure enchanting and ethereal, lifted her gaze to the Bluedrop g, a sly smile ying at her lips.

    ¡°Oh, he aims to lead the souls back to the Sword Pavilion...¡± she murmured softly.

    "Deluded folly!" scoffed the demon horde, an icyughter punctuating the dense air.

    Tenderness dripping from her every syble, the Moon Fairy delicately extracted the Bluedrop g, locking eyes with the spirits within, a mocking glint dancing in her gaze.

    ¡°Since they desire to let these so-called loyal souls return home, I think... I disagree!¡± She dered, turning towards the monstrous congregation, her voice a lilting jest.

    ¡°Come now, my darlings, one drop of filthy blood each. Drip it upon this Bluedrop g, stain the souls of these seven human heroes with our <i>filth</i>, and let these self-righteous humans experience, firsthand, what it¡¯s like to have their souls reek as we do!¡± Herughter, soft and bewitching, echoed amidst the snarls of the demonic army.

    ¡°Tainted blood?¡± The hundred thousand demons erupted into cruel, mirthfulughter upon hearing her words.

    ¡°Exactly! Let the seven of them carry the stain of our blood in their souls through every reincarnation, no matter how many times they¡¯re reborn!¡±

    ¡°To ughter twenty thousand of our brothers and not suffer for at least nine lifetimes... it simply doesn¡¯t add up, does it?¡±

    ¡°Under the deluge of the blood of a hundred thousand demons, even if their souls can reincarnate, perhaps in the next life they can''t even be pigs or dogs, only ephemeral mayflies, forever pinned to the book of life and death!¡± Demons stepped forward, each more sinister than thest.

    The Green Fox King was the first, belonging to the fox tribe and kin to the Moon Fairy, his status was naturally a notch above the rest. He squeezed a drop of blood¡ªsteeped in sin¡ªfrom his body.

    ¡°The Sword Pavilion Seven? Merely seven waste of spaces!¡± His sinisterugh froze just as he was about to let the blood drop.

    A hundred thousand demons watched, a chorus of mockingughter filling the air.

    Just at that moment, a howl of sword aura thundered from the southern horizon, and azure sword aura shook the heavens!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>The sound of three thousand Sovereign Swords piercing the sky was like the grinding of iron, sounding beside the ears of a hundred thousand demons.

    Countless minor demons rolled on the ground, wailing!

    ¡°So soon?¡± The Green Fox King, momentarily stunned, identally dropped the sinister blood onto the earth. Instantly, even the soil turned a dull grey, losing all semnce of life.

    Upon the Bluedrop g, the seven souls quivered! They had arrived! Finally, they were here! Three years! Who didn''t wish to return home? The Bluedrop g vibrated violently!

    The hundred thousand demons turned their icy gazes skywards, buzzing with trepidation.

    <i>KLANG KLANG! </i>Above the cloudyer, suddenly, three thousand sword riders plunged down! They faced death unflinchingly, their murderous aura shattering the heavens!

    Leading them was a man in white with an azure sword. He rode across the sky, dragging behind him a hundred-odd incapacitated Ye Family members, his white robe fluttering, and a tidal wave of murderous intent flooding from him!

    A moment of such stature was truly unparalleled across the ages!

    "Yun Xiao!" Upon seeing this, fury erupted in Moon Fairy¡¯s chest. Her avatar had been minced into gore by him!

    "You shall die without a ce for burial!!" Moon Fairy roared, her face nearly splitting, morphing from a beauty into a sharp-fanged, snarling fox face.

    <i>BOOM! </i>In reply to Moon Fairy, a string of people crashed down from the sky! Ye Tiance, Jiang Yue, Yao Manxue, and the rest screamed as they plummeted,nding squarely amidst the hundred thousand demons, right before Moon Fairy''s eyes!

    <i>SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT! </i>Their heads burst upon impact, muscles and bones entirely snapped, each on the brink of death. They couldn¡¯t even muster screams, only offering dim, hollow gazes at the surrounding legion of demons.

    "Moon Fairy... save me." Jiang Yue, teetering on the brink, beheld the demon sovereign before her, trembling arm outstretched, pleading.

    However, Moon Fairy didn¡¯t even nce at her! What value could a Low Comet grade talent like her hold? None at all!

    Ye Tiance, her, Yao Manxue¡ªthese people who had once befriended the demons, nowy, battered and broken, hurled into the midst of the demon tide by Yun Xiao!

    The miserable state of Ye Tiance and his kinsmen seemed like a dire warning!

    The hundred thousand demon horde stared nkly at this former overlord of Azure Spirit, now so pitifully brought low. For a moment, a chilling air rose within their hearts.

    <i>SHING SHING! </i>Above the boundless sky, sword aura surged.

    The youth, radiant and peerless, hovered on his Sovereign Sword, extending a finger and dering, ¡°I¡¯vee to the Northern Wastnds, and not a single demon shall live!¡±

 Chapter 068 - Yun Xiao vs 100,000 Dark Abyss Mountain Demons!

    <h4>Chapter 068 - Yun Xiao vs 100,000 Dark Abyss Mountain Demons!</h4>

    ¡°Not a single demon shall live?¡± Atop a ridge to the west of Dark Abyss Mountain, a beautiful woman in a ck dress stood, her presence boldly asserted against the tempest. As her garments danced violently in the wind, her eyes locked onto the surging tide of a hundred thousand demons ahead, and a chilling aura billowed around her.

    ¡°A mere boy, regardless of his talent, is worthless without sufficient intellect. He''s destined to die sooner orter. There''s absolutely no merit in cultivating him.¡± With those words, the woman in the ck dress turned away, ready to depart.

    ¡°Great Sword Venerable Ning!¡± Elder Wang and Shangguan Jia hastily blocked her path.

    ¡°Great Sword Venerable, please grant him one more nce! Once the battle begins, Yun Xiao is sure to catch your discerning eye,¡± Elder Wang implored urgently.

    ¡°What battle? You three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators merely need to guard the gate to the thousand mortal nations. Why venture into this demon nest? Could it be that you''re all just tired of living?¡± The woman sneered disdainfully. ¡°And don¡¯t tell me this is youthful fervor. The brave without strategy meet their demise sooner. It¡¯s a path of pure idiocy, utterly uninteresting!¡± Ning Yang''s brows furrowed as she gazed at the two men before her. These two, one pudgy and the other uncouth, stood in stark contrast to her own exquisite and noble demeanor.

    ¡°Move aside.¡± Her words were soft, yet those familiar with her knew well that if these inferior men persisted in their annoyance, her patience would wear thin. She felt this was a fruitless journey! Moreover, a fruitless journey spent with two low-quality males. She was utterly speechless!

    Elder Wang and Shangguan Jia exchanged nces.

    ¡°Yes, Great Sword Venerable.¡± They could only bow their heads, sigh, and cease their obstructions.

    ¡°Yun Xiao once represented the Sword Pavilion in the Conve, single-handedly ying one hundred and twenty opponents!¡± Shangguan Jia murmured softly.

    "Tsk..." The woman in ck chuckled softly, an air of disdain about her. Her delicate frame merged with the wind, and in a blink, she departed with regality.

    ¡°All this way, to put on airs and then just leave? Really!¡± Shangguan Jia eximed, helpless.

    ¡°True to form for a woman who birthed Xuanran and tossed her to the Azure Spirit, unseen for twenty-two years!¡± Elder Wang grumbled with resentment. But, they were powerless! They couldn¡¯t keep her here.

    ¡°Forget it, let¡¯s believe in Yun Xiao!¡± Shangguan Jia said.

    ¡°Yes! I trust him. We won¡¯t beg anyone! We¡¯ll rely on ourselves!¡± Elder Wang, gazing towards those three thousand Sword Cultivators, already felt his blood boiling.

    ¡°The two of us should join in!¡± The two gazed towards the blue g at Dark Abyss Mountain. With clenched teeth and eyes ame with vengeance, they mounted their Sovereign Swords to lend their support.

    ¡°I really don¡¯t want to tell Xuanran that after her mother came, she didn¡¯t even spare her a nce...¡± Elder Wang looked towards Zhao Xuanran, sighing inwardly.

    They entered the fray!

    ¡°Why are the two of you here?¡± Li Chenlong asked loudly.

    Elder Wang gritted his teeth and ryed the previous events.

    The crowd fell into a deep, resounding silence upon hearing the tale.

    ¡°She was here?¡± A woman¡¯s voice quivered ever so slightly.

    Peering into the distance, Zhao Xuanran wore a nk expression as she gazed westward, where only emptiness met her eyes.

    ¡°There''s no need, Xuanran,¡± Elder Wang spoke with a heaviness hanging in his words.

    ¡°I know!¡± Her brows dipped low, a flicker of hatred shimmering in her eyes. She abruptly lifted her head, fixing her gaze on the swarming horde of a hundred thousand demons, dering coldly, ¡°I came today to y demons, and I need nothing from her.¡± As her voice fell, a hand gently patted her shoulder.

    Turning, Zhao Xuanran met the eyes of Yun Xiao. The Northern Wastnds were perpetually shrouded in darkness, yet upon the youth seemed to shine a light, illuminating the three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators. He was their beacon in that moment!

    ¡°She missed a thrilling show, and that¡¯s her loss,¡± Yun Xiao said, his words steeped in unquenchable conviction.

    ¡°Mhm!¡± Zhao Xuanran gazed at him tenderly. ¡°Junior Brother Yun, your senior sister will apany you!¡±

    ¡°Good!¡± He nodded. Abruptly, he swung around. At that moment, the vicious intentions of a hundred thousand demons roared mightily, and countless brutal killing intents coalesced into wave after wave of demon fog, rolling toward their legion of sword cultivators!

    ¡°Moon Fairy and those ten Demon Kings, along with several thousand shape-shifting demons, have all disappeared,¡± Yun Xiao furrowed his brow.

    ¡°It¡¯s their tactic!¡± Zhao Xuanran dered bitterly.

    ¡°Tactic?¡±

    ¡°Yes! The Northern Wastnds is and of resentful spirits, where any being can transform into a demon. What itcks least are lesser demons! Three years ago, the Northern Wastnds Demon Emperor exploited the lives of twenty thousand lesser demons to exhaust my father and seven senior brothers and sisters of their magic powers before making a move on them!¡± Blood-red vengeance surged in Zhao Xuanran¡¯s beautiful eyes.

    Right here at Dark Abyss Mountain! Tens of thousands of demons, besieging eight people! A pain that pierced the heart of the Sword Pavilion!

    ¡°Demons are unlike humans. Humans fear death, but lesser demons, devoid of spiritual wisdom, are easily manipted...¡± Chen Dong spoke in a grave tone.

    ¡°Moon Fairy and those Demon Kings are now lurking deep within Dark Abyss Mountain, waiting for us to be exhausted from the killing before they pounce!¡±

    A hundred thousand lesser demons! Even with three thousand Sword Cultivators, the ughter would be lengthy! This so-called tactic was despicable yet effective! It was the demon wave tactic of the demons of the Northern Wastnds!

    Mortal Sword Cultivators were few and far between. But the demons of the Northern Wastnds were inexhaustible! Precisely because of this, even the people from the Sea of Swords would think thating to this demon nest to fight was folly!

    Gazing upon the boundless one hundred thousand demons, even the hot-blooded and vengeance-filled three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators felt a sense of helplessness creeping into their hearts.

    It was simply too many! When would the killing end? Humans weren''t made of steel, and their magical power was finite. Who could survive, cutting through all the way?

    Moon Fairy was a sly and deceitful fox demon! She had no sense of morality whatsoever!

    ¡°Kill!¡± Above Dark Abyss Mountain, demon fog churned, shrouding those hundred thousand demons, seeping into their beings. A hundred thousand demons, eyes aze with a blood-red hue, went berserk!

    Under the icy, disdainfulmand of Moon Fairy, a cacophony of one hundred thousand demons erupted¡ªhowls, roars, shrieks and wails¡ªas they surged toward the three thousand Sword Cultivators.

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM!</i>! The earth quaked, the sky darkened, and even the sun and moon were devoid of light. Mists of malevolent demons, blood of the vicious, poisonous airs, and ghostly winds overwhelmed thend.

    Each tiny demon, utilizing every limb, bared teeth in a gruesome grin, void of any fear of death. Their eyes glimmered with nothing but greed, hunger, and brutality.

    The terrifying sight threw a bucket of cold water over the three thousand Sword Cultivators from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Even those with unwavering beliefs, like Cai Maomao and Qin Tong, found their hands trembling on their swords amidst the earth-shattering chaos.

    Yet, in front of them, a solitary white silhouette stood, steadying hearts and resolve alike. Yun Xiao faced forward, his eyes the epitome of tranquility.

    "Ride your swords into the sky!" he suddenlymanded.

    "Ride our swords?"

    Hearts tightened among them, but they did as bid without hesitation.

    <i>VROOM VROOM VROOM! </i>One after another, the Sword Cultivators from Azure Spirit propelled themselves into the clouds on their flying swords.

    Once airborne, they all exhaled in collective relief. Of the hundred thousand demons below, only a little over a thousand could fly.

    Three years prior... Zhao Jianxing and the Sword Pavilion Seven couldn''t escape by flying, as Moon Fairy had summoned all the flying demons in the Northern Wastnds to kill them, most of whom perished in the attempt.

    With their predecessors paving the path, the situation for these three thousand sessors in the Northern Wastnds had markedly improved.

    "With our swords, these hundred thousand demons can''t touch us!" Tears streamed wildly down Cai Maomao¡¯s cheeks. It was his brother. ¡°They eradicated the demons that could fly...¡±

    Oh, how gant they had been on that day. With their memories burning bright, fiery determination kindled within the three thousand Sword Cultivators.

    "But if we use our Sword Souls to fly, we can¡¯t use them to kill the demons, can we?"

    How then, would the life-and-death battle transpire?

    And besides, flying on swords consumed magic power!

    "Wait, someone isn¡¯t flying!" Upon these words, a hubbub erupted amongst the three thousand Sword Cultivators.

    Looking down, they saw, standing resolutely before the hundred thousand demons, a lone white figure.

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun!¡± Even Zhao Xuanran hadn¡¯t expected him to stand alone, wielding a single sword, blocking a horde of one hundred thousand demons.

    ¡°What courage does this take?!¡± Li Chenlong eximed, his heart pounding in his chest.

    ¡°Xuanran, just how far has he cultivated these three days?¡± Chen Dong asked, his voice shaking.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know...¡± Zhao Xuanran gazed nkly at the white silhouette, her heart a tempest of emotions. All she knew was that when the treasure vault had opened, he had shut himself inside. Three dayster, the doors of the vault opened again!

    When he emerged, Zhao Xuanran took a peek inside. The Azure Spirit Sword Sect''s Treasure Vault was empty!

    The youth scratched his head at the moment, sheepishly grinning, ¡°Senior Sister Zhao, rest assured, the interest will still be calcted at 0.015%!¡± He would pay it back!

    Zhao Xuanran didn¡¯t know why he¡¯d taken the foundation amassed by the Azure Spirit over hundreds of years! Anyway, she had promised to keep it secret! And she¡¯d also agreed that no matter what he did today, she would cooperate, absolutely forbidding acting on whim.

    "Quick, aid Yun Xiao!" Many people, perceiving the situation, were startled and hurriedly shouted.

    "No need!" Zhao Xuanran yelled, promptly blocking the other Sword Cultivators.

    Everyone simultaneously turned towards her, their eyes filled with bewilderment. "Senior Sister Zhao..."

    "Let him take the lead! When he gives the order, it won¡¯t bete for us to go up!" Zhao Xuanran decisively said.

    "Yes!" Three thousand Sword Cultivators nodded.

    One person, one sword, first to kill a round? Their eyes were aze, intensely watching that white-clothed youth! Their passion exploded!

    "A hundred thousand little demons, no more than a hundred thousand mortal warriors, dare to harm my Junior Brother Yun?" Cai Maomao roared angrily.

    "Kill!" In the unified outcry, the youth had already swung the sword in his hand, a man like an Immortal amidst the swords! The three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators rode to the heavens! He alone battled a hundred thousand demons of the Dark Abyss Mountain!

    Up ahead, gloomy winds howled, and dark clouds veiled the moon! Those faces of malice and brutality, some entirely beastly, some half-human, half-beast, and some defiled into demons!

    Yun Xiao, in his flowing white robes, stood with a sword horizontally in ce! Creator Immortal, a generation''s divine visage! Such a scene was enough to be engraved in the memories of all present for a lifetime!

    White robes, an azure sword, a hundred thousand demons! Who in the world did not know Yun Xiao?

    "Come!" Yun Xiao stamped on the ground, suddenly rushing out! The earth of the Dark Abyss Mountain shattered thunderously! The white robe was like a demon! The azure sword in hand shot out in an instant!

    <i>Swallow Tail sh!</i>

    This soaring first sword, in an instant, pierced through eight thousand feet! Within eight thousand feet, there were rocks, soil, demons! No matter what it was, it was instantly prated by the Flying Sword!

    Boulders exploded, blood and remnants ascended to the heavens!

    With one strike, a bloody path straight through the Dark Abyss Mountain was carved!

    "So powerful!!" Witnessing this, the eyes of the three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators burned with awe, their hearts pounded in their chests. What realm was he in, after all? Everyone wanted to know, yet no one did!

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Terrifyingly, when the Flying Sword returned to his hand, it hadn¡¯t been stained with a single drop of blood! Everything had been absorbed by Heaven Burial!

    That Flying Sword whirled like a storm in his hand, twenty-nineyers of Sword Aura manifested as twenty-nine azure dragons, a ck Sword Ring circling like something demonic!

    "It''s not merely a Sword Soul; it''s a nightmare that devours life!¡± Cai Maomao eximed, shocked. Three thousand of them watched, eyes wide, as Yun Xiaounched his Flying Sword time and again!

    One sword! Yet another! Each sword strike carved an eight-thousand-foot path of blood! Wherever the Flying Sword passed, demons exploded into blood, bones disintegrated, and rivers of blood flowed! Thousands of them fell in battle!

    What was terrifying was that, up until now, the hundred thousand demons hadn¡¯t even reached Yun Xiao!

 Chapter 069 - Time To Send You On Your Way!

    <h4>Chapter 069 - Time To Send You On Your Way!</h4>

    In a western ridge of the mountains, a bewitching woman in a ck dress, stirred by themotion, departed, only to return. Her delicate body quivered when her eyes absorbed the unfolding scene, and she found herself somewhat dazed. Recalling her words just moments ago, a wash of embarrassment brushed over her.

    ¡°This young man does indeed possessmendablebat power! But hisck of intellect is also a stark reality! Going on like this, he will eventually be drained dry! Then, waiting for death will be his only option!

    ¡°However, he truly is quite handsome. Amongst the young talents of the Sea of Swords, not a single one canpare to even a tenth of his appearance. But the low intellect, that¡¯s really the unfortunate stroke of the pen!¡±

    Looks, for a cultivator, weren''t much of a utility. However, intelligence was invaluable! So, she was rendered somewhat speechless. How could such a fatal w exist?

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>In her view, those densely packed one hundred thousand demons on Dark Abyss Mountain, in merely a brief moment, were split into ten bloody paths!

    If it were one hundred thousand people, they would have been scared senseless by now. But these lesser demons wouldn¡¯t be; they were already governed by brutality, having no concept of what fear was!

    ¡°Surround him! Pile atop him!¡± In the chilling and ghastly voice of Moon Fairy, a noticeable hint of apprehension seeped through. Clearly, this scene also delivered quite a shock to her!

    Under her enveloping demonic fog, the remaining over ny thousand demons finally reached Yun Xiao, almost forming a flesh mound, instantaneously piling into a demon mountain atop him! All were fangs and ws, a symphony of ghosts howling and wolves crying! The other ferocious demons pounced, transforming the mountain of demons into a demon tornado!

    ¡°Yun Xiao!¡± Three thousand Sword Cultivators had yet to hear Yun Xiao¡¯s order for the decisive battle, and upon seeing this, their hearts leaped wildly, boundlessly anxious.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>In the next moment, from within the demon mountain, azure light, like an angry dragon, rampaged and ughtered ruthlessly! Each stroke of the sword unleashed a hundred-foot azure dragon!

    One sword stroke reaped a thousand lives! One sword stroke obliterated the demons into mists of blood!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Within the demon mountain, the young man in white danced with his sword, swings broad and open, his de slicing in all directions, sweeping across the heavens!

    One after another, fierce demons pounced! Countless demon corpses, demon blood, and demon bones sttered out! The earth roared, ten thousand demons howled. ws and severed arms flew together, blood and filth melded as one!

    Yun Xiao waspletely focused! With each stroke of his sword, hundreds up to a thousand ferocious demons died.

    Three years ago, when Zhao Jianxing and the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion slew the demons, the scene was simr, yet none were as shocking as Yun Xiao with a sword alone!

    Yun Xiao had the support of three thousand Sword Cultivators, but he didn''t need or want their help. In the eyes of onlookers, his actions might scream arrogance, a manifestation of individual heroism. However, he knew it was the optimal choice.

    "Continue!" Moon Fairy''s chilling voice echoed, reverberating in the ears of the demon horde. She harbored no pity for the lives of the lesser demons! Each sword stroke Yun Xiao unleashed, in her eyes, was a mere hastening of his own demise. Hadn¡¯t this same scene unfolded three years ago?

    ¡°All Sword Cultivators are the same... They really never learn, hehe...¡± Moon Fairy sneered, her scorn permeating through Dark Abyss Mountain.

    Under the Bluedrop g, individuals like Ye Tiance and Jiang Yue, despite their dire straits, still found the time to mock Yun Xiao, who was seemingly digging his own grave.

    Back on the mountain to the west, thedy in the ck dress sighed and shook her head in dismay.

    Only the three thousand Sword Cultivators, gritting their teeth as they wielded their swords, continued to await Yun Xiao¡¯s killmand.

    Amidst the demon swarm, the young man carried on his wild shing. With a boundless protective magical force surrounding him, how could these petty demons draw close?

    Up until now, he hadn¡¯t sustained the slightest injury! With every stroke of his sword, mountains of corpses and oceans of blood emerged. With every strike, blood sttered across the horizon.

    At least ten thousand demons met a gruesome end on the spot, their bodies shattered into countless pieces, and yet his zeal for battle remained unbridled.

    ¡°Just a few days ago, I fought against one hundred and twenty Sword Cultivators alone, without fatigue!¡±

    ¡°Today, with the support of the entire Azure Spirit treasure vault, do you think a mere hundred thousand demons can exhaust me?¡± Yun Xiao chuckled coldly. Clutching a Heavenly Dao Sarira, he fed it into his mouth. The magical power he had just expended was instantly replenished, returning him to a state of full potency.

    This thing was just that phenomenal! Even with the gentlest medicines like the Divine Sea Pill and Dragon Spring Pill, one would need to sit and refine them to potentially replenish their energy.

    The Heavenly Dao Sarira melted as soon as it touched his tongue! This was the critical factor in the resurrection prepared by the Creator Immortal, perfectly aligning with his Primordial Void Technique.

    ¡°Come on! Come at me! Let¡¯s see, in the end, whether you¡¯ll exhaust me, or I¡¯ll exhaust you!¡± Yun Xiao was actually afraid these lesser demons might scatter away in fear. It was far more efficient to obliterate them all at once! When would there be a better opportunity than now?

    ¡°Master! Senior brothers! Senior sisters! You have already in twenty thousand flying demons! I¡¯ll handle the remaining scum!¡±

    Flying demons could cross over the mountains, posing a direct threat to the thousand mortal nations.

    Why was it said that Zhao Jianxing and the Sword Pavilion Seven had immeasurable merit?

    Even when their swords shattered, even facing death, they, in the final moment, eradicated a grave threat to the mortal nations!

    From the perspective of the rulers of the mortal nations, Yun Xiao firmly concluded, ¡°This act, its merit shall be extolled for a thousand years!¡±

    With predecessors setting such an example, a sessor like him naturally pursued the path with fervent passion, following the footsteps of his master and senior fellow disciples.

    ¡°Today, I will use the blood of a hundred thousand demons to pay tribute to the seven heroic spirits!¡± He gazed towards the Bluedrop g atop the high peak, anger aze.

    "y! y! y!" He plunged into the horde of demons, slicing through them as though they were melons under his de, he and his sword cleaved through time and again!

    "Continue!" Moon Fairy hadn¡¯t witnessed his moment of exhaustion, yet she insisted on wearing him down! Little did she know, in this world there existed such a thing as the Heavenly Dao Sarira!

    She persisted! And so did Yun Xiao! The remaining demons, under her beguilement andmand, not only refrained from retreating but grew more frenzied with each death, purely exhausting Yun Xiao¡¯s magical power with their lives!

    Three thousand Sword Cultivators, by now, felt their scalps tingle with horror!

    The woman on the western mountain ridge, speechless to the core, murmured. "Has this fool''s magic power not been exhausted yet? How can hest so long?" She wanted to ask someone if this foolish boy had always been... so enduring? How massive must his Dantian be?!

    The entire Northern Wastnds waited for Yun Xiao to be drained! Yet, he showed no sign of weakness!

    "Had it been someone else, their Sword Soul would''ve shattered by now..." A shade of peculiarity surfaced in the eyes of thedy in the ck dress for the first time. "But there are still eighty thousand demons! How many tens of thousands more can you withstand?"

    At present, he alone had already ughtered twenty thousand demons!

    "In the Sea of Swords, even within the Forbidden Tower, who under sixteen could achieve this?"

    This wasn¡¯t even a question of strength, but one of endurance!

    "Twenty thousand!" Zhao Xuanran took a deep breath, her eyes stained red.

    "Wait a bit more, he¡¯s fine!" Chen Dong croaked with a hoarse voice.

    "If only that woman could see this! If she took Yun Xiao to Sword Heaven, he''d have the status to oppose Ye Guying, and a chance to save the Sect Master!" Elder Wang sighed.

    Ye Guying would emerge from seclusion in another five days! When he returned to Azure Spirit, seeing the Ye Family in ruins, there was bound to be a battle with Yun Xiao!

    "Don''t mention her!" Zhao Xuanran suddenly interjected.

    Understanding the pain in her heart, Elder Wang hastily shifted the topic, eximing, "Look at Yun Xiao, he¡¯s gone berserk in his killing!"

    Indeed! He had be a berserker! A white silhouette climbed onto Dark Abyss Mountain!

    Beneath his feet, mountains of corpses and seas of blood. Everywhere he looked, not a speck ofnd wasn¡¯t stained in a morbid red! Green mountains transformed into blood and corpse mountains!

    "He has in thirty thousand demons!"

    "A single man has surpassed the ancestors..."

    "Such glorious merit is enough to be recorded in history, shaking the mortal thousand nations, and written into the annals of history!"

    "Let the generations toe sing the tale of a young Sword Immortal, named Yun Xiao, who alone swept across thirty thousand malevolent demons with his sword!"

    But asserting the number thirty thousand seemed premature. Yes, for Yun Xiao was still ying demons left and right!

    ¡°Senior Sister Zhao, how can he endure for so long?¡± Cai Maomao questioned with a bewildered air.

    ¡°How should I know?¡± Zhao Xuanran¡¯s cheeks flushed a subtle pink as she hastily shook her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s strange, isn¡¯t it? Doesn¡¯t everyone¡¯s magic power have a limit?¡± Cai Maomao persisted in confusion.

    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re talking about magic power...¡± Zhao Xuanran mumbled absentmindedly.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>All the surrounding elders and fellow disciples gazed at her, agape.

    ¡°What are you all looking at me for? Look at him! Isn¡¯t he so handsome and cool?¡± Zhao Xuanran snapped back, her eyes wide.

    ¡°Yes, yes, yes...!¡± The crowd muttered, exchanging nces.

    <i>COUGH COUGH COUGH! </i>A chorus of deliberate coughs rang through the group. This was but a small interlude! From start to finish, everyone¡¯s gaze never strayed from Yun Xiao. They were entranced!

    In the blink of an eye, it was forty thousand! Nearly half of the lesser demons had already be fragments beneath the white-robed young man! The mountain of corpses grew ever higher! Dark Abyss Mountain turned an ever-deeper shade of red!

    ¡°He must be nearing his limit; keep killing!¡± Moon Fairy insisted, her mindset teetering on the edge. But, after already throwing forty thousand into the fray, what else could be done? Keep piling them on! Bury him!

    ¡°He¡¯s still killing?¡± The ck-dressed beauty atop the western mountain felt her eyes going numb from watching. ¡°It¡¯s a good thing those two men left!¡± Otherwise, she would''ve felt her face heat up in humiliation. ¡°Anyway, there¡¯s no way he can keep this up!¡±

    But then, it was fifty thousand, sixty thousand, and then seventy thousand!

    ¡°Damn it!¡± The ck-dressed beauty didn¡¯t want to watch anymore. ¡°This guy definitely has something wrong with him! Without some serious issues, there¡¯s no way he could do this!¡±

    Though she cursed and ranted, her extremity of speech emanated from inner turmoil. For she was repeatedlying back to check! She''d continuously said Yun Xiao was an idiot with no intelligence! But now, as the young man stood unscathed, a sweeping embarrassment flooded her. Thankfully, there was no one else around to witness this.

    With only thirty thousand lesser demons remaining, surrounded by an endless sea of bodies, Moon Fairy''s confidence finally began to falter, just a smidge. "Dammit! Why won''t he just drop dead?!"

    As far as the eye could see, this was no longer Dark Abyss Mountain! This was a demon burial ground! An expanse stained with the blood of the fallen, where seventy thousandy defeated!

    And there, the youth in white, with his azure sword... still slew onward! His arm must have been aching, surely! Later on, he simply took a seat, dispatching the demons solely with his Flying Sword. After all, their numbers had significantly dwindled.

    Witnessing this scene, the initial fervent blood of those three thousand Sword Cultivators, always at the ready, cooled. They hadn¡¯t done a thing! Yun Xiao had in them all single-handedly. Fervor was reced with speechlessness! Speechless amidst the shock!

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun is freaking epic!¡± Cai Maomao found himself at a loss for words to describe this almost god-like being!

    A lone swordsman slicing through seventy thousand demons! And still continuing! Not only did he persist, from this moment on, he surged towards the demon nest of Dark Abyss Mountain! There resided the truly ferocious demons of the Northern Wastnds! Thousands of them, having assumed a human form! They were at least equivalent to thete Late Dragon Spring Realm, none of them easily extinguishable! They were the confidants of Moon Fairy! Inside the demon nest!

    ¡°My Empress...¡± Thousands of fierce demons looked toward Moon Fairy, ¡°Seventy thousand lesser demons have fallen. Shall we continue?¡± The issue was that they still hadn¡¯t found Yun Xiao¡¯s limit!

    Moon Fairy took a deep breath, a chilling intent to kill flooding her eyes. ¡°Enough of this. Let''s decide life and death!¡± This opponent was much more troublesome than she had imagined!

    ¡°Yes!¡± They could finally act. Watching the lesser demons get ughtered, this group of fierce demons had long had their anger simmering. They were not like the unintelligent lesser demons!

    These fierce demons were real malevolence unleashed! Those thousands of fierce demons, in this moment, crawled from their den, countless scarlet eyes fixing upon the youth in white.

    <i>HUM! </i>The youth in white sharply lifted his head! In that moment, seeing that group of Demon Kings and Emperor, myriad rays of sword light surged within his eyes!

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Treading upon a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood, with the three-foot azure de in his hand, he violently pointed towards the heavens!

    "Your time hase!" Yun Xiao''s words barely fell when sword lights howled above, three thousand shadows of Azure Spirit Swords shattered the heavenly clouds, piercing down!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>A total of three thousand Sword Cultivators precipitouslynded behind Yun Xiao, following this youth in white, every one of them with eyes sternly murderous, swords pointing at the horde of demons!

 Chapter 070 - One Sword Exterminates All!

    <h4>Chapter 070 - One Sword Exterminates All!</h4>

    Yun Xiao stood atop a hill of seventy thousand demon corpses, his azure demon-ying sword tightly gripped in his hand! Behind him were three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators. Up ahead were seven unyielding souls on a path from which there was no return! Dark clouds shrouded the moon, and a mncholy wind whispered through.

    Thousands ofrge demons, fierce demons, and Demon Kings crawled across mountain walls, peaked tops, and rivers, letting out mournful and brutal howls, with thick, venomous drool continuously dripping from their maws.

    The Demon Emperor Moon Fairy, amidst the horde, emanated a chilling aura, enshrouded in a mist of demonic energy. This was the eerie silence before the ultimate battle!

    ¡°y!¡± With a roar from Yun Xiao, akin to a thunderbolt upon nd, a storm bathed in a bloody red hue spiraled towards the cluster of demons! Riding his Sovereign Sword with Azure Sky Will, he thrust his de into the midst of the demonic swarm!

    Behind him, Zhao Xuanran, Chen Dong, Li Chenlong, Elder Wang, and other Sword Cultivators¡ªexcept for Shangguan Yu, who was still caring for Zhao Jianxing at the Azure Spirit¡ªunsheathed their swords and charged towards the Northern Wastnds demons!

    Hatreds born of life and death, ally beneath the sword! Facing these ferocious, blood-thirsty demons, only ughter could vent their hatred, vindicate their swords, and clear their conscience to themon folk! This was the unyielding spirit of the sword path!

    After three years, they had finally broken free from the shadowy, overpowering hand of petty men and carved out a sword of righteousness and bravery! Each person, their minds aze with fury!

    ¡°Brother! Brother! I''m not afraid of demons anymore, can you see me? I''m here to bring you home, Brother!¡± Once, under his brother¡¯s protection, Cai Maomao was timid and weak, but these three years had subjected him to numerous humiliations, yet he always steadfastly remained in the Sword Pavilion!

    Today, he wanted that departed soul to witness him! In his eyes, there was only that Bluedrop g! All Sword Cultivators focused on that g, ying their way toward it. Three thousand individuals, following a single white silhouette!

    With three thousand Sword Souls, they directly zed a bloody path of corpses to the peak of Dark Abyss Mountain!

    ¡°Yun Xiao must be utterly exhausted by now, nothing more than a spent force, merely being propped up by sheer willpower!¡± Moon Fairy¡¯s demonic eyes iced over, pointing towards that white silhouette, ¡°Whoever kills him can rece the Serpent Emperor and be the second Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds!¡±

    These words were precisely for those ten eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings!

    ¡°He''s nothing more than a brat!¡±

    ¡°Even if he were Zhao Jianxing from three years ago, after killing seventy thousand demons, he¡¯d also be nearly depleted to death.¡±

    ¡°The second Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnd...¡±

    The Green Fox King, White Vulture King, Spider Queen, and others exchanged a rapid nce, greed surfacing in their eyes.

    <i>BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ! </i>Instantly revealing their true forms, the ten eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings transformed into various beastly and tainted demons, breaking through the demonic crowd, and charging directly towards Yun Xiao!

    Such a change immediately shocked the entire field!

    Ten Demon Kings, besieging an exhausted Yun Xiao?

    ¡°Hehehe...¡± Moon Fairy¡¯s gaze was eerie as it settled on Yun Xiao, ¡°Did you think this was a mortal nation''s battle, where soldiers first duel?¡±

    Demons were selfish! Even if all its underlings were to perish, as long as they could pile atop Yun Xiao''s dead body, it would be worth the sacrifice!

    Moon Fairy''s cunning eyes slid past Yun Xiao,nding upon a woman in a ck gown behind him.

    ¡°This woman means so much to you,¡± Moon Fairy sneered. ¡°Capturing her is akin to having your life in my grasp, no?¡±

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The words had barely left its lips when it, still shrouded in a sinister smile, turned into a wisp of white mist, quietly sliding over the mountains of corpses and seas of blood beneath its feet, heading stealthily towards the woman in the ck gown.

    Foxes were, after all, cunning creatures. Who would engage in a blood-boiling duel with you? Even if Moon Fairy didn''t fear Yun Xiao, it wouldn''t willingly ce itself in danger! That was its way!

    A lethal shadow loomed, increasingly encroaching upon the woman in the ck gown. But with her heart and eyes fixed on the Bluedrop g atop the Dark Abyss Mountain, she remained oblivious to the peril inching closer. The battlefield was too loud, too chaotic, corpses and blood flying everywhere.

    But before this, the ten eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings remaining in the Northern Wastnds had already surrounded Yun Xiao! Each of them held the battle power of an ordinary Azure Spirit Sword Venerable!

    Yun Xiao was essentially facing ten Sword Venerables alone! With a cool nce, he surveyed all of them. There was a green, chilling demon fox, a white vulture pping its wings in the sky, an ugly spider that had grown the upper body of a woman, and a blood demon engulfed in a mist of blood... All of them aimed to be the second Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds!

    Looking at Yun Xiao, this young and seemingly delicious youth, these ten Demon Kings all licked their lips, their thick saliva dripping noisily, and a chilly wind surged from their bodies!

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Without uttering a single word, the ten Demon Kings screamed and charged towards Yun Xiao, scrambling over each other.

    ¡°He''s done for!¡± The Great Sword Venerable from Sword Heaven, Ning Yan, resolutely predicted from the western mountain ridge. At this moment, she noticed the white mist of Moon Fairy quietly sneaking towards a woman in a ck gown amidst the battlefield.

    Ning Yan''s eyebrows knitted together, but she huffed coldly, turning her head away, unwilling to watch any longer. ¡°It''s over.¡±

    A young man¡¯s fiery blood? Romantic young love? Heart-wrenching passion? To her, it was nothing but an innocent joke!

    ¡°All together now?¡± Within the surging demon mist, Yun Xiao¡¯s cold eyes swept over the ten Demon Kings, his gaze swirling with countless sword lights, as profound killing intent stirred.

    Facing the pouncing eight-hundred-year-old vicious demons, Yun Xiao''s mouth curled up slightly with a chilling smirk: "After chopping vegetables for so long, I can finally stretch my muscles a bit."

    If anyone else had heard this, they would have undoubtedly been dumbfounded! He just killed seventy thousand and hadn¡¯t warmed up yet? Within the demon wind, his white robe fluttered, yet he stood as immovable as a mountain!

    <i>Whoosh! </i>Suddenly, his sword struck out!

    <i>Ten-Step Scale!</i>

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>The azure de reverberated through the open air with ten sessive, escting strikes, rapidly morphing into a veritable storm of steel that descended on the eyes of the Green Fox King!

    "Huh?" The Green Fox King halted, dumbfounded. In that fraction of a moment, the azure sword plunged into its eye. <i>BANG! </i>Its head detonated on the spot! The corpse, momentum still carrying it forward, tumbled to Yun Xiao¡¯s feet.

    The Green Fox King was vanquished! But was that the end? No, having pierced through its skull, the azure Flying Sword made a deft turn, spiraling into the vast skies above. The White Vulture King shrieked, pping its wings in a vain attempt to dodge.

    ¡°Think you can escape?¡± The sword darted through the air!

    <i>THUNK! </i>The White Vulture King''s head was severed, spiraling away! In just a blink of an eye, two eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings met their gruesome ends without a shred of resistance, not even making it within a stone¡¯s throw of Yun Xiao before copsing at his feet!

    But, was that the end? Still no!

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>A scene of pure terror unfolded!

    Yun Xiao unleashed another sword strike! <i>Ten-Step Scale!</i> A stream of azure sword light flickered in ten sessive bursts, zipping across the bodies of the ten Demon Kings surrounding him! Its speed pushed to its utmost limit!

    In an instant, the battlefield erupted with ten sessive explosions! With each explosion, a head burst apart! Finally, that azure light saturated with demon blood returned to Yun Xiao¡¯s fingertip.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>The bodies of the ten eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings all crashed at his feet!

    One sword ughtered them all! This sight shook the battlefield, trembling the very hearts of onlookers!

    It acted as an aerial p in the face, flying onto the western mountain ridge, resonating with a smack upon Ning Yan¡¯s face! She stood there, stupefied. Her gaze flickered involuntarily around her! Thankfully, no one was nearby! Otherwise, she couldn''t even imagine the embarrassment. A sigh slipped from her lips!

    ¡°Yun Xiao!¡± Just as rxation began to seep into her, a torrential roar from thousands on the battlefield gave her another good startle! That name, it hammered onto her, strike after strike. It seemed to question her, was this the spirit of youthful vigor? Was itughable? Those who idle with cynical words, they were theughable ones!

    The Dark Abyss Mountain erupted with fervor!

    ¡°With a sword, he slew seventy thousand demons, and with a single strike, decimated ten Demon Kings! Who in this world canpare, huh?¡± Elder Wang bellowed, his tears cascading unabashedly down his face. He had endured humiliation in Sword Heaven! Now, all the emotions he''d held back burst forth unrestrained. ¡°I truly wish that upturned-nose woman could witness this with her own eyes!¡±

    Yun Xiao¡¯s sword, dispatching enemies with each swing, instantly elevated the morale of three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators to an unparalleled peak! Their blood boiled, frenzy took them! Conversely, the morale of the Northern Wastnds demons was undoubtedly trampled underfoot and ruthlessly crushed!

    These great demons and Demon Kings, all of them were sentient; they might be stronger, yes, but they couldn¡¯t face death with the same disregard as their lesser brethren! They panicked! Their hearts, finally, quivered! ¡°The issue is, where is our Demon Emperor?¡±

    The new leader of Azure Spirit was shing through a hundred thousand demons! Where was the Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds? It was ambushing Zhao Xuanran!

    ¡°What?¡± Moon Fairy was still on the way! When it swung around, witnessing ten Demon Kings failing to hold even for an instant, its expression darkenedpletely!

    ¡°Just what realm is this kid in?!¡± It trembled inwardly. Even more disturbing for it was, after that young man finished off the ten Demon Kings, his head snapped up! Those eyes of his, as vast as a sea of swords, somehow pierced through the masses of demons, urately locking onto its mist of demonic aura!

    Two mighty monarchs, on this battlefield, their eyes met!

    Yun Xiao''s contained fury that could shake the heavens! Meanwhile, there was a deep furrow in Moon Fairy''s brow

    ¡°You, you still dare to target my Senior Sister Zhao?!" Yun Xiao roared. That night three days ago, the image of Zhao Xuanran caught in the mouth of that Serpent Emperor surged into his heart again.

    The blood rushed to his head! Harming the one he loved was something he absolutely could not forgive. Yet, the demons were trying this for a second time!

    Yun Xiao radiated a tempest of sword aura. Merely the oscition of his magic power pulverized hundreds of lesser demons into dust!

    <i>Azure Sky Will!</i>

    Solitarily wielding his sword, Yun Xiao bolted like a cerulean storm, instantly soaring over the heads of thousands of lesser demons

    <i>POP POP POP!</i> En route, the heads of countless lesser demons exploded in a symphony of gore! Another bloody path was carved! And this time, it led straight to Moon Fairy.

    Moon Fairy didn''t stand a chance to get anywhere near Zhao Xuanran.

    Yun Xiao was too swift! He was swift in demon-ying, and swift in confronting Moon Fairy!

    "You dare underestimate me?" Moon Fairy was also enraged. She was the sovereign of the Northern Wastnds! She was adept at employing deceit, but that did not imply an inability to fight! She simply delighted in malevolently using schemes!

    <i>HUM! </i>That white mist fiercely materialized into a three-tailed demon fox! Cloaked in pure white with sharp fangs and ws as piercing as Sword Souls, its three snowy tails swayed ominously through the pinkish-white demonic mist, enveloping its vicinity in a dense fog, making it impossible to see even one¡¯s own hand before them.

    Those three thousand Sword Cultivators were still ughtering the remaining demons! If it did not stabilize the situation soon, the Northern Wastnds would be thoroughly doomed!

    "Yun Xiao!" Moon Fairy screeched, its celestial demonic fog swooping towards him!

    Yun Xiao, wielding his sword with Azure Sky Will, dove headfirst into that demonic mist! Nothing could be seen. Yet, his eyes held no trace of fear! His white robes fluttering, he forcefullynded, transforming the Sword Soul into a three-foot-long azure de in his hand, instantly shing toward the left!

    <i>KLANG! </i>That sh collided with Moon Fairy''s w!

    Moon Fairy let out a pained shriek as its w shattered, the ck poison fog, originating from the thousand-year-old Serpent Emperor, already coiling around it!

    This young man was terrifyingly strong!

    Demons were proficient in demon magic, and Moon Fairy¡¯s magic was this bewitching world of demonic fog, where it could ughter whomever it wished within its domain!

    Why could Yun Xiao, upon entering, pinpoint its location so precisely?

    After the sword struck Moon Fairy, he even directly locked onto it, brandishing his sword and assaulting it once more! "Moon Fairy, your end is nigh."

 Chapter 071 - Future Unrivaled Demon!

    <h4>Chapter 071 - Future Unrivaled Demon!</h4>

    "My end is nigh ?" Moon Fairy scrambled to her feet, her fox eyes ring at him with a fierce malice, "This is my domain, who do you think you are?"

    "Still talking tough?" Yun Xiao, with a cold smirk, suddenly appeared before Moon Fairy, lunging forward with a stab!

    <i>Azure Dragon Squall!</i>

    His sword called to the heavens, an azure dragon burst forth, sword like a tempest, twenty-nineyers of Sword Aura howling, aiming at the three-tailed demon fox!

    Within this enchanting demon magic, Yun Xiao truly couldn¡¯t see it! However, Blue Star and Red Moon could smell its scent and ryed its position to Yun Xiao.

    The aura of this sword, its violence, reminded Moon Fairy of Zhao Jianxing from three years ago!

    Three years earlier, Moon Fairy, leading more than a dozen eight-hundred-year-old Demon Kings, had besieged the exhausted Zhao Jianxing! And now, she faced a prime Yun Xiao all alone!

    All dreams and illusions scattered at this moment! Only this sword bore the true essence of life and death!

    "You, a mere illusion demon, what right do you have to cross swords with me, a Sword Cultivator?" Yun Xiaoughingly dered in a chilly voice, Azure Dragon Squall, unstoppable! "Northern Wastnds Demon Emperor, is this all you''ve got?"

    <i>KLANG KLANG KLANG! </i>Moon Fairy, with ws and tail, continuously parried Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul. Even though her demon magic was ineffective, her magic power was still considerably vast, barely suppressing Yun Xiao¡¯s onught!

    Just as Moon Fairy exhaled slightly, she saw the youth in front of her suddenly swing his sword again!

    This sword, with a force like thunder and aweinspiring might, seemed like an angered dragon of the azure heavens taking form, the sword like a tornado, opening its maw to bite down on the three-tailed fox demon!

    "An insignificant fox demon dares to resist a dragon?" This imperious promation, carried with it the rigid righteousness of Yun Xiao¡¯s heart as a Sword Cultivator!

    It was disdainful! It was also overbearing! More so, it was a notion permeating through, belief reaching to the heavens!

    A mere fox dares to wreak havoc? The aura of this sword burst forth, in willpower alone crushing Moon Fairy, causing her, the three-tailed demon fox, to plunge into an abyss of fear in her instinct, as though drowning!

    "No, no, no!" She screamed in a pitiful voice.

    In the next instant, Yun Xiao''s sword fiercely struck her forehead! With a loud bang, her head was smashed into the ground, shaking the earth and mountains.

    <i>SPLURT! </i>She spat out a mouthful of demon blood, her eyes seeing stars, head spinning!

    "Yun Xiao, let¡¯s talk this through!" By the time she hastily uttered these words, Yun Xiao was already stepping on her head.

    "I have no words to exchange with you!" Yun Xiao dered. Only hatred, only vengeance suffused him, not just for the revenge of the Sword Pavilion Seven but also the resentment of the thousand mortal nations!

    <i>BAM BAM BAM! </i>His fists, one after another, hammered upon the demon fox''s head, sttering blood.

    In the white mystical fog, the screams of this once-proud Northern Wastnds Demon Emperor echoed abruptly through Dark Abyss Mountain.

    "Yun Xiao has won!" Tears of tion flowed freely from the three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators. He had vanquished the nightmare of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect and even shattered the disaster that had haunted the thousand mortal nations, leaving them trembling at mere whispers of it.

    "y all demons in the Northern Wastnds! Wipe out these abominations, Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators!!¡± Courage, killing intent, and a thousand years'' worth of vengeance exploded forth.

    "Our Empress has been defeated..."

    "All the Demon Kings are dead!"

    "The Northern Wastnds are finished!"

    The remaining demons, save for a few foolhardy lesser ones, all crumbled. Without a second word, they scampered away, tails between their legs, leaving their backs vulnerable to the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators.

    ¡°None shall escape, you chaotic demons!¡± Zhao Xuanran, Chen Dong, and Li Chenlong, leading the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators, chased and ughtered them by Sovereign Swords, forcing those panicking demons toward the peak of Dark Abyss Mountain, herding them toward Ye Tiance, Jiang Yue, and others under the Bluedrop g..

    In that moment, the loyal souls wept atop the Bluedrop g. They became a banner themselves!

    Three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators rushed forward, trampling upon the bones of thest group of demons to reunite with them. And then, to bring them home!

    Who would have thought that there woulde a day when they would tread upon the corpses and bloodied grounds of the Northern Wastnd''s demons, to meet under the Bluedrop g?

    With petty characters assuming power and demons obscuring the heavens, how could it be possible? Yet today, a mere sixteen-year-old in white robes led them, carving out a path through a sky-blue sea of blood!

    A scene that even, Ning Yan, the beautiful woman in the ck dress on the western mountain ridge beheld. She had be wise, no longer speaking out. She silently observed everything.

    When the mournful howls of Moon Fairy reached her, and those three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators, under Zhao Xuanran''s leadership, ughtered their way to the peak of Dark Abyss Mountain, she had to admit that today''s happenings in the Northern Wastnds were indeed spectacr!

    It was something to be sung about, a tale soaked with valor and pain.

    "Alright," Ning Yan conceded with a silent exhale, "I admit it... I wish to take this boy to Sword Heaven, to see just how far he can forge his path."

    Was he of low intelligence? She dared not utter such words again. After all, her face still harbored the heat of embarrassment even in this moment. Her only hesitation now was the words she''d spilled in front of those two elders. How would she manage to maintain a visage of innocence, as if she had said nothing at all, when she went to meet the youth in a while?

    A headache! An utter, throbbing headache!

    "And her!" Her eyes, cold and unyielding, locked onto a woman, a mirror of herself. "If not for this youth, you''d nevery eyes on me in this lifetime!" She couldn¡¯t forgive. Her life shouldn''t have unfolded this way. The existence of this girl was destiny''s cruel joke upon her!

    "What is this youth doing, not killing the fox demon outright?" the woman furrowed her brow.

    Amidst the bewildering white fog, Yun Xiao descended from the blood-stained white fox. He nced down at his chest and said, "The timing is about right, I leave the rest to you."

    "No problem, watch your daddy perform!" A small ck beast, with a milky, infantile voice, spoke the most arrogant words and pounced in front of the Moon Fairy.

    "This is..." The Moon Fairy, on herst breath and amidst terror, recoiled.

    <i>RIIP! </i>The little ck beast¡¯s chest violently burst open to reveal a massive, gaping maw. From it, a crimson tongue, riddled with barbs, abruptly thrust into the fox demon¡¯s head, burrowing into its brain.

    "No! No!" The Moon Fairy''s shriek was harrowing, yet Yun Xiao held her fast, negating any struggle.

    Soon, a wailing soul mist was rolled back by Red Moon¡¯s tongue. With a swift gulp, Moon Fairy¡¯s desperate cries came to a sudden end. What remained before Yun Xiao was the soulless corpse of a three-tailed fox demon.

    "Creator, you¡¯ve struck it rich!" Blue Star, his azure eyes wide, stared at the demon corpse before him, a cascade of emotions pouring forth.

    "How have I struck it rich this time?" Yun Xiao inquired. It was the reminders from these two that spared Yun Xiao from ying the Moon Fairy with a single sword strike. Certainly, he had reserved an even more miserable fate for her soul!

    "This happens to be a rare Split Body Seed!" Blue Star dered with a modicum of excitement.

    "Split Body Seed? Didn¡¯t you say this was a Moon grade Seed of Creation? What''s so special about this?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "It''s Seed of Creation for body-doubling, a kind of fleshly talent Seed of Creation! It fundamentally has no rank! While this talent doesn¡¯t amplify the Dantian, flesh, or skeleton, it''s quite useful," Blue Star said with a mischievous grin.

    "What¡¯s it good for?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "After you refine this Seed of Creation, there''s no need to absorb it into your body. You can split off a small part of your soul to control this body, making it your double!" Blue Star exined.

    "A double?" Yun Xiao, puzzled, inquired further, "So, the double is my own body?"

    "Yes, and controlling it will be like using your other hand!" Blue Star answered seriously.

    Yun Xiao froze, pondering internally, "I''ve already borrowed a corpse for my rebirth once, seizing the body meant for the Creator Immortal''s reincarnation. And now I need to split off a small portion of my soul and upy another body?"

    One person, two bodies?

    "So, if I die, can I continue living with this fox demon¡¯s body?" Yun Xiao asked curiously.

    "No way! Your main soul is in the Creator Immortal¡¯s body. If that dies, your small soul will also perish. But if the small soul dies, it¡¯s no skin off your nose," Blue Star borated.

    Yun Xiao understood! The main body was the main body. The double was the double. Their statuses were different!

    "The problem is, besides the Seed of Creation for body-doubling, this fox demon¡¯s body doesn''t have any other talents, does it?" Yun Xiao pointed out. What use was it?

    "You could use this fox demon''s body to cultivate another Ancestral God''s demonic techniques. Furthermore, the demon and human Immortals are different; they achieve sanctification through their physical bodies. As long as you have that demonic technique, even this three-tailed fox demon could cultivate to be a supremely powerful saint! The speed of improvement might not be worse than your main body! Besides, you could also transfer a portion of a Seed of Creation to it in the future," Blue Star proposed.

    "Use a demon as a double?" Yun Xiao didn¡¯t mind this; it was merely a tool after all! With this double, it would even be easier to infiltrate demon society and do many things his main body couldn¡¯t. Even y a little undercover game.

    What Yun Xiao cared about was something else! He immediately shook his head vehemently, waving his hands in refusal, "No, I absolutely cannot refine it as a double."

    "Why?" Blue Star was stunned.

    Yun Xiao looked down, his eyes trembling as he nced at the three-tailed demon fox, "This is a female demon... female! I can¡¯t be a woman, not even as a double..."

    Imagine a demon transforming into a human form. If he looked down and saw... breasts? Yun Xiao shivered at the mere thought of that image. A staunchly straight man of his generation, he couldn¡¯t ept such a scenario.

    "Yun Xiao, have you gone mad? This way, you could drink your own demon milk! Hurry up and refine it; I¡¯m getting thirsty just thinking about it!" Red Moon extended a w, wrapping it around his thigh, already prepared to throw a tantrum!

    Yun Xiao was speechless. Then he shook his head. He absolutely refused! "A true man standing in this world can''t resolve his physiological needs himself. No! Absolutely not! Not even in death!"

    Red Moon was dumbfounded! Physiological needs? It just wanted to drink demon milk. it hadn''t thought that Yun Xiao had already thought a step further!

    "Good heavens!" Blue Star suddenly squawked in shock.

    Yun Xiao cast a nce its way, only to witness the little ck beast lifting the hind leg of the three-tailed demon fox with its petite arm, peeking underneath with what could only be described as immense curiosity!

    Once its inspection concluded, it gazed at Yun Xiao, eyes wide with an excitable gleam, and shrieked, "Creator, it¡¯s a male!"

    "What?! Impossible!" Yun Xiao felt as though he had been struck by lightning. He had been bewitched by this fox spirit. How could it possibly be male? He leaned in immediately for a closer inspection.

    "Holy mother of the Heavenly Dao!" Yun Xiao was bbergasted. Damn it! It truly was a male fox!

    "Is this for real!?" Yun Xiao¡¯s mind buzzed noisily. He recalled the humanoid form of the Moon Fairy just a moment ago... long hair cascading like a waterfall, skin of the softest white, graceful and enchanting demeanor, a smile as delicate and intoxicating as blooming flowers, eyes gleaming with tantalizing nces, and a voice like silky sweet msses... It was quite the beguiling creature!

    "But... from what I recall, it did seem to be quite...t up front, indeed..." Then, another thought urred to Yun Xiao.

    This Moon Fairy also had a body double, birthed from the special characteristic of having the Split Body Seed. However, to beguile Yun Xiao and devour his yang energy, it had to utilize Jiang Yue''s body instead. If it were a female all along, why not do the deed itself?

    "Uh!" Yun Xiao stood there, dumbfounded. "So... that humanoid fox spirit just now... was truly a male..."

    If it were female, how beautiful it would be! But if it were male, capable of driving a whole slew of male lesser demons into frenzy, Yun Xiao could only say this demon magic was way too incredible! "This is utterly amazing!"

    Moon Fairy? A male! Yun Xiao was speechless! Absolutely speechless! A male fox! ¡°It¡¯s so darn wild!¡±

    This was demonic, truly demonic.

    Yun Xiao, with an expression of righteous indignation, appeared ethereal and detached, while the humanoid form of this fox spirit hovered somewhere between masculine and feminine, mysteriously frigid...

    "What''s your excuse now? It''s a male fox! Are you gonna refine it or not? The body is gonna start rotting if you wait any longer!" Blue Star bellowed.

    "Fine, I''ll do it!" Yun Xiao gritted his teeth. An additional body, an avatar, meant an additional method, an additional strategy, an additional way to kill! This was the means of the Creator Immortal!

    Blue Star''s chosen method of handling the situation guaranteed maximal gain. Why wouldn''t he refine the body? Of course he''d do it! He''d do it until it waspletely his!

    "Hah... I guess pleasing myself won''t be a solo task anymore..." He felt a pang of regret.

 Chapter 072 - Forever Inseparable!

    <h4>Chapter 072 - Forever Inseparable!</h4>

    Three thousand Sword Cultivators from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect were still sweeping through the hordes of demons! These Northern Wastnds demons, having lost their Demon Emperor and Demon Kings, were outright in through and through. No demon could withstand the aura of Azure Spirit at this moment!

    Even a Sword Cultivator like Cai Maomao, in the Late Dragon Spring Realm, holding the Sword Soul and fueled by a single breath within his chest, could y until drenched in demon blood!

    The remaining thirty thousand untransformed, unintelligent lesser demons, still ferociously lingering, were met by the now blood-frenzied Sword Cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, reducing even the most numerous of demons to severed corpses, their blood painting the green mountains!

    For themon folk across the thousand nations of the mundane world, these Northern Wastnds hordes of demons were nightmarish creatures. But they were almost entirely annihted in this battle!

    "y all demons, exterminate thempletely!" Within these resonant and gut-wrenching derations, the Sword Cultivators, unaware of fatigue and disregarding injuries, harbored but one obsession! That was to kill! To kill one more demon was to save one more part of the popce! How many opportunities to exterminate demons does one get in a lifetime?

    Without Yun Xiao, who could wield a sword in the Northern Wastnds and set down this magnificent merit that would be passed down through the ages? Kill! Kill until they were unable to kill any longer! Kill until not a single living demon remained on Dark Abyss Mountain!

    "Split Body Seed, sess..." Amidst the mountains of corpses and seas of blood, Yun Xiao abruptly opened his eyes! To be precise, he opened all four of his eyes! He now possessed two perspectives.

    From one perspective, he saw a blood-stained, white-clothed, handsome young Sword Immortal! For the first time, Yun Xiao, at such a close distance, saw this skin of the Creator Immortal so clearly. Indeed, he was ravishingly handsome.

    Through the other perspective, his main one, appeared a delicate and charming, sinisterly pinkish white figure, possessing a head of silky silver-white long hair, an exquisite face, a tender body, and a pair of eyes like vortexes, full of mystifying fog. Behind it, three pinkish white fox tails gently swayed... This was a fox demon! This was also Yun Xiao!

    Looking at this demon transformed into human form from such a close distance, Yun Xiao still felt a tingling sensation on his scalp. "Is this a male fox?"

    Had Blue Star not pried to take a look, Yun Xiao would not have believed to his death that such a sweet, likable, and enchanting creature was concealing such a big secret...

    "Try controlling this split body!" Blue Star suggested.

    This feeling, Yun Xiao found somewhat familiar! It was like when he had first received the Creator Immortal''s body. He was experienced, and fairly skilled. The first step in controlling the body! First of all, he reached down to feel.

    "After transforming into a human shape, it''s still male, and moreover, not small..." He had to admit, he was impressed! "This is also my clone!

    "Henceforth, my original self will be Yun Xiao, and my clone, Moon Fairy!" Yun Xiao still needed to use this identity of Moon Fairy. "With the Creator Immortal''s demon magic, the name of Moon Fairy too will echo throughout the demon world!"

    Yun Xiao was quite thrilled. A life with dual perspectives. He felt a bit mentally fatigued, as toggling between views was strenuous, but there was a primary and a secondary, and he would get used to it eventually.

    "Transform!" <i>HUM! </i>A pinkish-white demonic mist permeated the area. The enigmatic Moon Fairy, in a swift shift, morphed into a three-tailed demon fox, basking amidst the fog, its three fluffy tails loftily lifted, gazing upon Yun Xiao, the original Creator Immortal!

    "The body of a beast, requiring to move on all fours, is too hard to adapt to; I¡¯d better get ustomed to a human form first!"

    Otherwise, a fox demon suddenly standing upright and walking with a straight spine would seem quite bizarre.

    Moon Fairy shifted once again, reverting to human form! He was charmingly cold, his silver hair dreamlike, andpared to Yun Xiao''s original form, they seemed quitepatible.

    "It''s a pity there isn''t a demoness!" Red Moon, drooling,nguished, uninspired and nd.

    Yun Xiao rolled his eyes. With the body of Moon Fairy, he attempted to gently move his delicate lips, slowly stating, "I... am Moon Fairy, the Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds, not dead..."

    Yun Xiao could only say, apart from a slightly softer and feminine voice, this clone seemed quite alright!

    At this point, Red Moon extended its tongue, coiling around the fox spirit. The fox spirit, seeing its own body somehow animated, immediately burst into sorrowful wails.

    "Stop your weeping, with Creator here, your name as Moon Fairy is destined to be renowned across thends. The demons you couldn¡¯t court before, Creator will court for you!" Blue Star cackled.

    "Yes! Why didn¡¯t I think of it? By following Creator, I can devour both humans and demons alike!" Red Moon became spirited.

    "Shut up!" Yun Xiao red at them, tucking them into his embrace. Then, he and Moon Fairy locked eyes, engaging in a profound gaze. In essence, he was looking at himself.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Moon Fairy abruptly transformed into a white mist, sweeping into the mountains of corpses and seas of blood, quietly departing from the battlefield towards the Grand Wastnd!

    All three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators believed that Yun Xiao would surely eradicate this Demon Emperor. So. nobody realized he hadn¡¯t died! Not only had he not perished, but he had also been reborn.

    "This secret, no one must speak of it," Yun Xiao muttered to himself. "To y a demon, first be one! If I do not enter hell, who will?" Regardless of whether he was the Creator Immortal or a three-tailed fox demon, his essence would forever be the youthful Emperor of the Cloud Nation!

    "Conduct of a demon, upright character of a man!"

    From the moment Yun Xiao took down Moon Fairy, birthing a split body, the Northern Wastnds War was dered over!

    In that spell of time when he gave birth to a second body, Zhao Xuanran, nked by the three thousand Sword Cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, had carved a path of vengeance all the way to the Bluedrop g, where she met with Ye Tiance and Jiang Yue, who had been discarded there!

    In that instant, the Demon Kings fell to retribution! Great demons and ferocious demons were in without mercy! The blood of a hundred thousand demons stained Dark Abyss Mountain red!

    The dark clouds in the sky dispersed, and the Northern Wastnds weed the dawn. The zing sun illuminated the rivers and mountains, and the corpses shone brilliantly in the gleaming light.

    "We... We¡¯ve won!" A cheer shattered the resentment that had been suppressed for three long years.

    On Dark Abyss Mountain, the eyes of the three thousand blood-stained Sword Cultivators burned with fierce mes, their emotions surging like tidal waves, swords pointed to the heavens!

    ¡°Azure Spirit advances, northward we counter-attack, carving through everything in our path!"

    ¡°Such aplishments will surely bring peace to our ancestors below..."

    From then on, the Northern Wastnds were extinguished! From then on, Azure Spirit shook the heavens!

    "The name of Yun Xiao shall be extolled across a thousand mortal nations, hailed as a genius Sword Immortal of his generation, meritorious for centuries, bringing honor to his ancestors!" Chen Dong dered excitedly.

    Azure Spirit protected the thousand mortal nations!

    "For three years, demons have wreaked havoc in the mortal world, tarnishing the once-respected name of Azure Spirit. But today, this battle will wash away our previous disgrace and elevate the prestige of the human race!" In Li Chenlong¡¯s red eyes, too, hot tears rolled.

    While they had not lent a hand in the killing of the small beings, today they had put themselves on the line, ying thousands of demons with their swords, finally doing justice to the Sword Souls in their hands!

    In that moment, all the Sword Cultivators cast their eyes toward the g fluttering in the wind! There were also seven loyal souls!

    "Wee the Sword Pavilion Seven. Their souls will return to Azure Spirit!"

    For a moment, all eyes fell upon the woman in the blood-stained ck gown. The Sect Master had fallen unconscious! She was the eldest sister of the Sword Pavilion and the junior martial sister of these seven loyal souls.

    Her slender figure stood beneath the Bluedrop g, her eyes already reddened, tears raining down like a summer storm. She slowly knelt, bowing her head three times, tears falling upon the barren soil of the Northern Wastnds. "Senior brothers, senior sisters, I''vee to take you home..."

    It was a simple sentence. Yet everyone knew how long they had waited to hear these words, how much effort they had invested, and how much oppression they had endured.

    "Please enter the Soul Tomb!" Zhao Xuanran rose, lifting a half-foot-long wooden block in her hand, filled with inscriptions, resembling a small coffin. Above the Bluedrop g, the seven ethereal souls looked down, their eyes deep and filled with boundless joy.

    They were liberated! They were consoled! They could enter the cycle of reincarnation and rest in peace! One by one, they detached from the Bluedrop g, entered the Soul Tomb, and embarked on the road home!

    "Brother!" Cai MaoMao couldn¡¯t hold back anymore, sitting on the ground and wailing.

    "Daddy, it''s time to go home!" Qin Tong dered, her fists clenched and tears soaking her garment.

    With cautious reverence, Zhao Xuanran gently put away the Soul Tomb. Atst, the hearts of the three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators could find peace!

    Yet, Ye Tiance, Jiang Yue, Yao Manxue, and others, standing beneath the Bluedrop g, witnessed the unfolding scene, their faces already drained of color. Regardless of whether they had arms amputated or not, they squirmed and huddled together, eyes brimming with panic!

    For someone like Ye Tiance, as his Dantian shattered, teetering on the brink of death, excrement mingled with his stench, his eyes bulging. He fared no better than the rest!

    Jiang Yue was even more pitiable. She was filthy, her face vacant, her mind seemingly torn asunder. What would be of them?

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Suddenly, a figure d in white appeared before their eyes, like a nightmare made flesh.

    "Yun... Yun Xiao..." Over a hundred people, hearts quivering wildly, scrambled to their feet, bowing and kowtowing frantically, if they were able. Unfortunately, most found their tongues severed and pleas for mercy went unspoken, granting Yun Xiao a measure of peace amidst their silent despair.

    "Spare us! We too are of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect!" Ye Tiance whimpered, his words barely coherent. All around, sobbing prevailed!

    "Ye Tiance, only now you know fear?" Yun Xiao chuckled dryly.

    "Three years ago, when you colluded with demons to scheme against your peers, where was your fear then?

    "Three days ago, when you led demons into Azure Spirit, ughtering your kin, where was your fear?"

    Yun Xiao, his demeanor frigid, stepped towards him. "Now I am also afraid. I fear your deaths will not be gruesome enough to apologize to the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion! To say sorry to the ancestors of Azure Spirit! To beg pardon from the citizens of the thousand nations in the mortal world who trusted you!"

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>He severed the chains, grasping Ye Tiance¡¯s neck, hoisting him aloft!

    "UGH UGH!!" Ye Tiance iled wildly, his eyes dim and desperate, his body convulsing.

    Step by step, Yun Xiao dragged him to the Bluedrop g.

    "Confine the souls of those Demon Kings into the Bluedrop g first!" Yun Xiaomanded.

    "Yes!" Li Chenlong approached, trapping all the Demon King souls within, while Yun Xiao pressed the soul of Moon Fairy inside.

    The Bluedrop g fluttered wildly, sinister winds swirling! Countless demons suffered and wailed within.

    "Ye Tiance, you enjoy thepany of demons, yes? I¡¯ll let you all have enough fun together!" Yun Xiao sneered, cold as ice.

    "No! No!" Ye Tiance trembled violently, tears streaming down his face.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>With a fierce motion, Yun Xiao flung him into the air!

    Ye Tiance screamed, plummeting downward. Yun Xiao''s sword thrust forward like a dragon!

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Ye Tiance was cleaved into eight parts!

    "Ah!" Witnessing the scene, the group of Ye Family prisoners shuddered in unison. Dismembered into eight pieces, how could one not perish?

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao, employing his Sword Soul, ensnared the wailing soul of Ye Tiance, gently coaxing it into the Bluedrop g with a mere touch.

    Human souls, demon souls, all entwined together! Demons howled; human souls wept in sorrow. This, indeed, was a bloody debt repaid in kind.

    ¡°You think this is enough?¡± Yun Xiao beheld the scene, yet his words plunged the remaining prisoners into deeper despair.

    ¡°My senior brothers and sisters have suffered for three years!

    ¡°You all, at least, shall suffer for thirty years, until your souls are entirely extinguished!

    ¡°Andstly...¡± Yun Xiao elevated his voice. ¡°I shall take this Bluedrop g back to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, nt it within the Azure Spirit Cauldron, and let the mes of the Azure Spirit Cauldron burn your souls day and night!

    ¡°Damn it, I¡¯ll grant you this favor, let you burn together with the demons, and ensure you never part for all eternity!¡±

    Upon these words, the soul of Ye Tiance wept to the heavens and earth in utter despair. Meanwhile, Jiang Yue, Yao Manxue, Ye Xuanying, Zhang Jian, and the entirety of the Ye Family crumpled to the ground in paralysis.

 Chapter 073 - Testing My Sword Soul Again?

    <h4>Chapter 073 - Testing My Sword Soul Again? </h4>

    Trapped within the Bluedrop g alongside demons, the situation was already grim enough. How long could itst? If Ye Tiance, Yao Manxue, Zhang Jian, and the others were to be brought back to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, they would truly reverse honor their ancestors in the most dishonorable way. Even if their forebears were to reincarnate, they would likely shroud themselves in shame for the disgraceful descendants they begat!

    But the most terrifying aspect was the eternal soul-burning me of the Azure Spirit Cauldron! With the Bluedrop g present, their souls wouldn¡¯t perish in the fire, but they would burn, enduring an eternity of torment!

    Paralyzed! Utterly paralyzed! Regret and fear only dawned upon them now!

    ¡°Forgive us...¡± they cried with their wretched tongues.

    ¡°I¡¯ve no authority to forgive you. Ask those whom you''ve killed. Why not ask themon folk of the mortal realm''s thousand nations?¡± Yun Xiao responded.

    Second to face his fate was Ye Xuanying!

    ¡°Old man, your illustrious Ye family will perpetuate for eternity within the Bluedrop g!¡± Yun Xiao dered, his voiceced with a chilling sneer.

    ¡°Ah!¡± The old man cried out, wailing the name, ¡°Ye Guying.¡±

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>With each rise and fall of Yun Xiao¡¯s sword, he sent the old man to his demise. Soul into the banner! Repayment in double!

    The third to face doom was Yao Manxue!

    ¡°Ah! Ah! Ah!¡± The beauty, a Sword Venerable, devoid of limbs, lost all semnce of dignity. Once haughty, now a pitiful sight to behold! In her frantic, desperate screaming, she died.

    Then came Zhang Jian, followed by each member of the Ye family. Yun Xiao spared not a single one.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, you involve innocent kin; you are not a righteous Sword Cultivator. You are a murderous demon!¡± Thest of the Ye Family screamed, his voice steeped in misery and his tongue decayed.

    "Who ever said I was a righteous Sword Cultivator? I am a murderous demon, so what? Can vile people not be killed? You¡¯re a family of scoundrels, each one of you revels in entrapping others and takes pride in colluding with demons; your deaths are nothing short of deserved!

    "As I live on this earth, why should I endure the affronts of you lowlifes? You vile beings even dare to condemn me with morality, do you deem yourself worthy?¡±

    None would escape! All perpetrators went into the Bluedrop g! All of them fell into agonized wailing! In the end, only one person remained¡ªJiang Yue!

    As Yun Xiao held her by the neck, suspending her in mid-air, the young girl¡¯s face turned ghostly pale, sobbing miserably.

    ¡°I was wrong...¡± She mustered herst bit of strength to utter.

    ¡°And where, do you believe, you went wrong?¡± Yun Xiao gazed with a frigid look upon the girl who was once destined to be his empress.

    That day, everything had changed. Fate had mocked him, converting those who should have been his closest allies into enemies. They sought his life, shamed his name, razed his nation¡ªdestroyed everything he held dear! If not for his resurrection, how many lifetimes would it take to quell such overwhelming fury?

    Jiang Yue did not understand all of this. Shemented with sorrow, "I shouldn¡¯t have opposed you. You are a devil, and I cannot defeat you." Her words came through trembling lips, her frame shaking with every utterance.

    "No, Jiang Yue, that is not where you erred," Yun Xiao responded, his voice a biting cold.

    "What... is it then?" Jiang Yue, perplexed, barely mustered the words.

    "Your mistakey in forging your meteoric rise into Azure Spirit, crafted with the lives of the tens of thousands of my Cloud Nation''s citizens," Yun Xiao¡¯s words seeped venomously through gritted teeth.

    In that instant, Jiang Yue¡¯s eyes bulged in horror, her body trembling violently. Her mouth agape, her face nearly tearing apart with a grotesque mix of realization and dread, she screamed, "Yun Xiao! Yun Xiao! It really is you..." Her heart exploded and shattered within her.

    Three months ago, the image of a youth, standing in deathly white, finally merged with the demon before her in the present. The Heavenly Path, Sword Debate, and the Grand Conve... all the hatred the youth held against her and Ye Guying¡ªshe finally understood it all.

    The hatred from the Sword Pavilion hadeter. Driving Yun Xiao to ughter her and the First Sword Peak was a blood debt from Cloud Nation, known to none!

    Jiang Yue had no idea how he came back to life... but she crumbled, thoroughly and utterly. As she gazed into the youth''s icy eyes, her own eyes, dim and hazy, nearly burst from their sockets. Her scalp tingled, her spine chilled, and her entire body trembled with horror.

    "Ah! Ah! Ah!" Her wails, agonizing and filled with dread, resonated as fear enveloped her. "Yun Xiao, give me a chance. I still love you; I still admire you!" She sobbed, somehow forming the words.

    <i>THRUST! </i>The very instant after she spoke, an azure sword from Yun Xiao pierced through her face. Amidst the spray of crimson, her screaming came to an abrupt end.

    "Joking, are you? Do you think you''re worthy?" Yun Xiao, staring into her face, issued a cold, forest-likeugh, "I wanted you to die alongside Ye Guying. But you''re really too lowly, persistently parading before me. Apologies, but Ick the patience!"

    And so, the sardonic tragedy intertwined with love, betrayal, and revenge spun forward, fraying as swiftly as it wove.

    "I''m not only going to kill you," Yun Xiao pronounced coldly, his eyes a void of emotion, "but I''ll also make you share the same fate as Ye Tiance. Your soul will burn in the Azure Spirit Cauldron¡¯s fire for a century, intertwined with the spirits of demons!

    "Jiang Yue! Do you understand now? This damnation is called the Immortal Path!" With a sinister tearing sound, Yun Xiao, after delivering his words, extracted her soul, pressing it into the Bluedrop g.

    ¡°Uh-huh, Senior Brother Ye...¡± Jiang Yue''s cries of despair were piercing, yet even at this point, she still had thoughts of Ye Guying, who would emerge from seclusion in five days. Did she truly feel regret? Clearly, she did not.

    "Don''t worry, Ye Guying will end up even more miserable than you!" Yun Xiao dered. After uttering the words, he sheathed his Sword Soul, grasped the Bluedrop g, and waved it; a hundred souls within it howled woefully.

    The killing was over! The anger was vented! If it weren''t for the fact that Ye Tiance''s Sword Soul and Sword Aura were already inferior to his, Yun Xiao would undoubtedly find a ce to suck out his marrow. However, his golden Sword Ring was taken by Yun Xiao, embedded into his own Sword Soul.

    Indeed, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul could bear two Sword Rings!

    "Ye Tiance''s Demon Core on his sword has been there too long. It''s practically bird food now," Yun Xiao observed the golden and ck, thousand-year-old Sword Rings on his Sword Soul, his eyes shing with sword rays.

    The three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators wore looks of sheer satisfaction, gazing at the wailing lost souls within the Bluedrop g.

    "Ye Tiance has finally be inseparable from the demons, intertwined through lifetimes!"

    "Ha ha!"

    "Those who walk the path of immorality will inevitably be condemned by the heavens. Vengeance is not forgotten. It''s merely biding its time!"

    "Our Junior Brother Yun, he himself is the very retribution!"

    What a sheer delight! If they weren¡¯t all riding their Sovereign Swords back to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, they¡¯d likely have broken out the drinks.

    "Behind Dark Abyss Mountain, there should be numerous demon caves and treasures!" Zhao Xuanran suddenly spoke up, her beautiful eyes slightly luminous.

    Upon hearing this, everyone cheered!

    Indeed, demons plundered and looted, burning and killing as they went, seizing treasures wherever they could find them. They too needed Spirit Stones, pills and heaven and earth treasures for cultivation!

    ¡°They¡¯re wealthier than Azure Spirit!¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go clean them out.¡±

    In an instant, the three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators dashed away.

    "True to form, my Senior Sister Zhao, thinking of treasures at the first opportunity..." Yun Xiao cheerfullymented.

    "Are you implying that I''m greedy?" Zhao Xuanran fixed him with a stern gaze, still remembering the matter of the 320,000 Spirit Stones. He gave her an interest of five Spirit Stones! It infuriated her!

    "Uh! I was wrong. That''s called being thrifty and housekeeping," Yun Xiao said, attempting to remedy his previous remark.

    ¡°Why don''t you marry such a virtuous senior sister then?¡± A mischievous voice, belonging to Cai Maomao, sliced through the lingering tension.

    ¡°Step aside!¡± Zhao Xuanran shot him a stern nce, maintaining an outward calm. Yet, a soft blush swept over her cheeks, a delicate shade that suggested a drunkenness of sorts and betrayed her tranquility.

    The surroundings reeked of death, mountains of corpses, rivers of blood, an olfactory onught. But amidst it all, the senior sister remained a beacon of beauty and fragrance. It wasn¡¯t the wine that intoxicated but the person. Their eyes locked in a long, steady gaze amidst the chaos, holding a conversation silent yet potent.

    ¡°These demons sure were loaded!¡± someone eximed, breaking the silent exchange.

    ¡°Just the Spirit Stones alone are close to two million!¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s clean them out.¡±

    Soon enough, good news fluttered back to them.

    Two million? Yun Xiao¡¯s sword-like eyebrows twitched in intrigue.

    ¡°The treasure vault''s wealth is the cornerstone that the Azure Spirit Sword Sect was built on, and all Sword Cultivators have a stake in it. I have to pay it back first!¡± His voice carried a weight, reflecting the solemn oath within. ¡°The demons of the Northern Wastnds may be eradicated, but numerous demons have infiltrated the mortal nations. I alone can''t deal with those concealed in the mortal realm and must depend on them!¡±

    So, despite his dire need for Spirit Stones, he could not afford to be selfish.

    Azure Spirit hadn¡¯t formally entered the mortal realm to y demons in three years. It was a matter urgent, imperatively hanging over their heads, and it had to be done! After paying back the treasure vault, he presumed some would remain for misceneous use.

    ¡°We¡¯re rich,¡± Yun Xiao muttered, a transient pleasure twinkling in his eyes. Poverty-stricken to affluent overnight, what a thrilling feeling! However, he also understood his need for Spirit Stones would only multiply in the adventures toe.

    ¡°Everyone, let''s head home!¡± Swiftly, the Sword Cultivators rallied together. To escort the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion home!

    Though the Northern Wastnds were distant, with their Sovereign Swords, the Sword Cultivators traversed speedily! ying through the Northern Wastnds and returning to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect could be done in just a day!

    ¡°Would Ye Guying, in his ten days of secluded cultivation, have foreseen me obliterating his First Sword Peak in two days and ughtering the Northern Wastnds in another?¡±

    Three days in-between were actually the lengthiest part due to the cultivation!

    Ten days of secluded cultivation?

    Toote, the opportunity had withered!

    Grandeur surged in Yun Xiao¡¯s heart as they were about to ride their swords back.

    Suddenly, a graceful woman, adorned in a rich ck dress, wafted down from the lofty clouds,nding gently before the three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators. She hailed from Sword Heaven in the Sea of Swords, her demeanor far too outstanding for mere Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators topare. In her gaze resided a natural-born pride.

    Upon seeing her, Yun Xiao paused for a brief moment. A woman who bore uncanny resemnce to Zhao Xuanran!

    "I wondered how Senior Sister Zhao''s life was so unpredictable, and her figure so tantalizingly hot... it''s all in the blood," Yun Xiao muttered. Turning his head, he saw Zhao Xuanran stiffen next to him, her eyes welling with vengeful blood. She was finding it very hard not to hate!

    And the most vexing part was, the ck-dressed beauty gave Zhao Xuanran not even a passing nce uponnding.

    ¡°Great Sword Venerable!" Elder Wang, Shangguan Jia, and others hastily led the crowd in paying respects to this prominent figure from Sword Heaven.

    "We are honored to meet the Great Sword Venerable Ning!" Chen Dong, Li Chenglong and others, leading the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators, bowed to her, their eyes heavy with a touch of reverence. Because in their hearts, the presence of Sword Heaven was as awe-inspiring and majestic as an immortal from a heavenly pce!

    Ning Yan, however, brushed her hand, not even sparing them a nce. Elder Wang and Shangguan Jia were conspicuously invisible to her. Her gaze rested solely on Yun Xiao!

    Drawn in by his up-close charm, she admired the young man in white for his handsome features, his eyes as vast as gxies, and the rarity of his world-beating looks, as if he were a heavenly immortal!

    "Yun Xiao!" Ning Yan''s eyebrows arched slightly, "I''d like to take you to the Sea of Swords, to further your cultivation in Sword Heaven!" Regardless of how haughty this woman was, when she made this offer, the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators couldn''t help but rejoice for Yun Xiao.

    Ye Guying had the Forbidden Tower as his backing! Just by being in Azure Spirit, how could theypete with the Forbidden Tower? Even a random Sword Cultivator from the Forbidden Tower could sweep Azure Spiritpletely!

    Backed by no power, it would be tough! In the Sea of Swords, only Sword Heaven could barely hold its own against the Forbidden Tower, and this was Yun Xiao''s opportunity!

    Yun Xiao remained unperturbed! He hadn''t expected this woman toe back around, again. He was not a ditherer. Indeed, it was absurd not to take advantage of what was in hand to use or borrow! However, he was concerned about Zhao Xuanran''s feelings. So, to go or not to go?

    "Yun Xiao, after arriving at Sword Heaven, I will arrange a Sword Soul test for you!" Ning Yan added, seeing his silence, "If your Sword Soul truly carries a heroic spirit, it will shake all of Sword Heaven, and your reputation will echo throughout the Sea of Swords!"

 Chapter 074 - Holy Son Chu!

    <h4>Chapter 074 - Holy Son Chu!</h4>

    "Shake all of Sword Heaven? How?" Yun Xiao asked.

    The graceful woman in the ck dress chuckled lightly, radiating an assured confidence. "With my reputation as the Great Sword Venerable Venerable Ning Yan, I guarantee you''ll soar!"

    A collective thrill of surprise buzzed amongst the crowd at her words. For such a figure to make such a guarantee of sess revealed that Yun Xiao¡¯s performance had indeed captivated her.

    "In this way, Yun Xiao has a mountain to lean on in Sword Heaven, and a big one at that!" Elder Wang felt a surge of joy within.

    "Could it be that the Great Sword Venerable Ning is showing extra concern for Junior Brother Yun due to the Sect Master?" Cai Maomao whispered jubntly to those nearby.

    "Shut your mouth!" Qin Tong leaped in fright. In reality, if it wasn''t for the Sect Master, Ning Yan might have already aided Yun Xiao in ying the demons of the Northern Wastnds! All eyes turned to Yun Xiao.

    Pressing his lips together, Yun Xiao turned his gaze toward Zhao Xuanran.

    Zhao Xuanran seemed considerably calmer. No longer perturbed by the woman, she gently took Yun Xiao''s hand, her red lips parting slightly, "Junior Brother Yun, you must go."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao gripped her hand in return, tightly.

    "My father needs a Sword Tempering Pill within the next twenty days. Or else..." Zhao Xuanran did not lower her voice; she intentionally let the woman hear.

    "Heh." Ning Yan turned her head away, scoffing coldly, "A Sword Tempering Pill? That''ll be in your dreams."

    "Anything else, Senior Sister Zhao?" Yun Xiao looked at her tenderly.

    "Tell everyone that you are Zhao Jianxing''s disciple!" When Zhao Xuanranspoke, she looked at Ning Yan. Her eyes were sharp, her aura imposing, showing no fear of the woman. It indicated that she''de to terms with things, no longer caring. Indeed, after twenty-two years of holding out hope, she''d been thoroughly disillusioned.

    "Hah." Ning Yan snickered, shrugging her shoulders, almost bursting intoughter.

    Yun Xiao witnessed all this, his eyes adopting a three-degree chill. <i>Sword Heaven?</i> In his heart, there was only the Azure Spirit Sword Sect and the Sword Pavilion!

    However, he still decided to go to Sword Heaven immediately. It wasn''t for fame or glory, but rather for the sake of the Sect Master and his Senior Sister Zhao''s vindication! And there was also one more important reason!

    <i>Who said I could only wait for Ye Guying to kill his way back at Azure Spirit? </i>Yun Xiao mused, a cunning glint in his eye. <i>There are still five days left, enough for me to block him at the Sea of Swords!</i>

    Although a battle was inevitable sooner orter, the dynamics were utterly different. The first option was waiting passively! The second was piercing the heavens with a single sword, fearless of gods and demons!

    "Great Sword Venerable, I''ll head to Sword Heaven early tomorrow," Yun Xiao stated inly.

    "Fine!" Ning Yan was somewhat disgruntled. What she wanted was to take Yun Xiao back this instant. If he went tomorrow, it meant she would have to return alone and empty-handed. She hade to fetch him personally!

    Although Ning Yan was irked, she restrained her irritation given Yun Xiao''s talents!

    It was only when departure lingered on the horizon did she arch an eyebrow towards Zhao Xuanran, speaking with anguid grace: ¡°Yun Xiao, the Sea of Swords is rife with beauties from noble swordsmanship families. They''re born privileged, and possess a charm that can sink fishes and tumble swans. With your talents, you''d naturally be encircled by a cluster of fragrances. Why must your gaze be limited to a country bumpkin?¡±

    ¡°A country bumpkin, am I? Then what does that make you, an old brothel keeper? Aren¡¯t you insulting yourself by insulting me?¡± Zhao Xuanran snapped back without a moment¡¯s hesitation.

    ¡°You!¡± Ning Yan was enraged. Twenty-two years and not a glimpse! She didn''t even know her own daughter''s name! Yet with just one sentence, she came to know exactly what kind of personality she had.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, your Sword Soul will be tested tomorrow!¡± With that, Ning Yan spoke no more to Zhao Xuanran, intending to turn and leave.

    ¡°Farewell, Great Sword Venerable...¡± The members of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect spoke withplex expressions. They didn¡¯t like Ning Yan either! But s, Sword Heaven only weed her.

    Just as the crowd''s collective sigh hung in the air, change rolled in like a tempest! From within the clouds above, the whistling of a Sovereign Sword fiercely resounded! That Sovereign Sword whipped up a stormy cloud vortex, its aggression palpable!

    ¡°Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son Chu descends upon the mortal realm! Lesser beings, hasten to pay your respects!¡± A robust and authoritative roar trembled through Dark Abyss Mountain, whipping up waves upon the blood sea.

    <i>KLANG KLANG! </i>Two mighty sword rays tore through the clouds, piercing the earth!

    <i>HUM! </i>Those sword rays morphed into two silhouettes, standing atop the highest peak of Dark Abyss Mountain, their intense eyes casting downward, sweeping over the members of Azure Spirit. The aura was startling!

    ¡°Elder Fan?¡± Yun Xiao immediately recognized him!

    This golden-haired elder with a lion-like mane now appeared in front of the crowd. His eyes were solemn as he respectfully stood behind a figure. The announcement just now hade from him. Apanying Elder Fan was a youth in splendid attire!

    With hands sped behind his back, the slender and tall youth''s eyes gleamed and exuded an astonishing poise.

    ¡°Forbidden Tower, Holy Son Chu!¡± Upon hearing those words, the folks of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect collectively inhaled sharply, faces paling, heads bowing, not daring to meet the gaze of the youth!

    ¡°A person from the Forbidden Tower?¡± Yun Xiao noted everyone¡¯s reverence, understanding that this Holy Son Chu was no ordinary character. ¡°He must be a genius Sword Cultivator from the Sea of Swords,¡± he mused silently, observing him.

    ¡°Are you all not going to pay your respects?¡± Elder Fan once again bellowed, his eyes sweeping over the crowd.

    ¡°We greet Holy Son Chu...¡± The crowd hastily spoke.

    Elder Fan¡¯s status was enough to sit as Sect Master of Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Yet, he was still reverent in front of Holy Son Chu. So, one could only imagine the amount of pressure the crowd from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect felt from the presence of this youth.

    For now, the three thousand Sword Cultivators could only bow their heads once more! Today, they were demon-ying heroes. But s, against the illustrious Sea of Swords¡ªa sanctuary of swordsmanship, paralleling the entirety of the Grand Wastnd¡ªresistance was futile.

    Satisfied only when the heads of the people from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect bowed, the lion-maned Elder Fan and the impably dressed Holy Son Chu surveyed the scene, peculiar expressions ying upon their faces as their gazes flitted across the demon corpses strewn about. Their eyes lingered momentarily on Ning Yan, though no greetings were exchanged.

    ¡°Who did this? Step forward!¡± The young man invish attire, Holy Son Chu,manded, his gaze stern and somewhat intimidating as it swept across the members of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    The Sword Cultivators of Azure Spirit were momentarily baffled, struggling toprehend his implication.

    ¡°Holy Son Chu is asking who amongst you was ying demons in the Northern Wastnds?!¡± Elder Fan stepped forward, his fierce eyes fixating upon Yun Xiao. He was inwardly astounded by Yun Xiao¡¯s actions but did not reveal his astonishment. For now, Yun Xiao was his focus.

    ¡°I did. What of it?¡± Yun Xiao stepped forward, his expression stoic.

    ¡°Heh!¡± Holy Son Chu''s icy gaze locked onto him. Turning to Elder Fan, he directed, ¡°Kill him, and send his head to the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± Elder Fan bowed slightly in acquiescence.

    The faces of the Azure Spirit members turned pale, a collective expression of perplexity upon them.

    ¡°Stop!¡± Chen Dong and Li Chenlong stepped forward urgently. ¡°Holy Son Chu, this cannot be!¡±

    However, Elder Fan paid them no heed, bearing down on Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Junior Brother Yun has carried out a meritorious service by ying the demon. What crime has hemitted?¡± Zhao Xuanran''s eyes gleamed with hatred towards Elder Fan and Holy Son Chu behind him.

    Holy Son Chu shook his head, a cold smirk gracing his features. ¡°His mistake lies in his ignorance.¡±

    ¡°And how am I ignorant?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze chilled.

    ¡°The Forbidden Tower and the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord have signed the Grand Wastnd Pact! Sword Cultivators and demons shall not vite each other! This very pact has granted peace to the mortal world for decades! And you, driven by reckless bravery, dared to cross boundaries and y demons! When the Demon Lord, having suffered such a great loss, is inevitably enraged, and if he deres war by tearing up the pact, you, then, will be an eternal sinner! Tell me, how are you not in the wrong?¡± Holy Son Chu''s eyes glinted with disdain as he spoke with a chilling sneer.

    ¡°Decades of peace? Open your eyes and take a look at the thousand mortal nations, where is the peace of these decades? Can you speak with a straight face?¡± Yun Xiaoughed.

    Such audacity! How could one be so shameless?

    ¡°Yun Xiao, your actions are inexcusable! You dare to contradict Holy Son Chu?! You''re really asking to be killed!¡± Elder Fan roared, his voice reverberating, leaving everyone¡¯s ears ringing.

    "My actions are inexcusable? I''m asking to be killed?" Yun Xiao smirked. How familiar those words sounded! He recalled they were the first words spoken by Ye Guying upon appearing in the Cloud Nation''s imperial capital. Indeed, it was quite fitting for the Forbidden Tower that had taken in Ye Guying. The two were birds of a feather!

    ¡°Elder Fan, you seem to be acting like a mad, yapping dog, jumping up and down,¡± Yun Xiao retorted with a cold chuckle.

    Everyone looked on. Elder Fan, with his golden mane, ring eyes, and flustered demeanor, did indeed resemble an enraged canine.

    ¡°You still have the audacity to spew insolence when death is at your door, do you?!¡± Elder Fan¡¯s face twisted grotesquely. He was not Ye Tiance! Once, during the Eight Swords Conve, his single stroke had the power to break through the Sword Sealing Formation!

    At that moment, Elder Fan unleashed his Sword Soul with a sudden fervor. The Sword Soul transformed into a palm sword, over twice as broad as a conventional one. A dense array of thirtyyers of Sword Aura cascaded along its form, emanating a rich, golden gleam, somewhat reminiscent of a majestic lion''s steely needle-like fur. A lion''s head motif adorned the sword''s hilt, its malevolent glow momentarily apparent.

    This was the Golden Lion Sword Soul!

    Atop it lingered a Sword Ring, akin to lion''s teeth, exhaling a golden mist. The demon magic coexisted harmoniously with the Sword Soul, clearly demonstrating formidable power.

    "Yun Xiao has defied the inviblews of the Forbidden Tower; death is inevitable! Under themand of the Holy Son Chu, I shall behead him. Whosoever dares obstruct, shall share his fate!" Elder Fan bellowed, his voice a leonine roar, resonating across the vicinity, shaking the ears of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect disciples with a continuous hum.

    "What a joke. You have this much power as a Sword Cultivator. But instead of going out to y demons with it, you decide to y the demon yer?" Yun Xiao mocked, the gleam in his eye growing even sharper.

    "When I was ughtering demons, your father was but a mere twinkle in his ancestors'' eyes!" Elder Fan scoffed. sping the hefty Golden Lion Sword Soul with both hands, he vehemently pressed towards Yun Xiao!

    With at least the power of the Mid Origin Core Realm erupting from him, a golden energy wave swept across, forcibly repelling the people around Yun Xiao. Then, the sword swung down towards Yun Xiao''s head with unrelenting force!

    <i>HUM! </i>In that heart-stopping moment, a sleek, ck silhouette abruptly materialized before Yun Xiao. It was none other than Ning Yan, the Great Sword Venerable!

    "Fan Jing, do you assume my absence?" Ning Yan''s voice was cold as ice.

    Upon seeing her, Elder Fan could only retract his sword, remaining grounded.

    Scratching his head and grinning sheepishly, Elder Fan remarked, "Apologies, I genuinely didn''t notice Great Sword Venerable Ning!" Quick to anger, quicker to calm, he was unmistakably a sly one.

    "However," Elder Fan, backed by robust support, spoke with a rather defiant tone, "I''m in the middle of capturing the sinner who vited the Grand Wastnd Pact under the Holy Son Chu¡¯s orders. May I inquire why the Great Sword Venerable obstructs me?"

    "Don''t spin tales. The disputes between Azure Spirit and the Northern Wastnds are not within the scope of the Grand Wastnd Pact!" Ning Yan stated, gazing coldly towards the Holy Son Chu. "Holy Son Chu, I, Ning Yan of Sword Heaven, have taken a liking to this Yun Xiao!"

    Holy Son Chu and Elder Fan paused upon hearing this. And then, they burst into simultaneousughter. Aughter so hearty, so unrestrained! It caused Ning Yan''s slender eyebrows to furrow tightly.

    "What''s so amusing?!" Her voice was like a chilling frost.

    Holy Son Chu lightly chuckled, "Great Sword Venerable Ning, after such a prolonged thirst, could it be that you''ve taken a fancy to this pretty boy?"

 Chapter 075 - Three Year Promise!

    <h4>Chapter 075 - Three Year Promise!</h4>

    Once Holy Son Chu spoke, turmoil bloomed in the hearts of those from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. ¡°How audacious these Forbidden Tower folks are, daring to utter such impudent words!¡± Their thoughts rippled with silent umbrage.

    ¡°You Chu Family whelp!¡± Ning Yan¡¯s face instantly turned three shades colder, ¡°Spout nonsense again, and even if Xiao He protects you, I''ll sever that insolent tongue of yours!¡±

    With these words, a vast and overwhelming magic power surged from her, forcing both Holy Son Chu and Elder Fan to step back, chests feeling as if they were being crushed by a mountain, breath caught in their throats.

    ¡°Oh, how amusing, Great Sword Venerable Ning,¡± Holy Son Chu quirked an eyebrow, a sardonic smirk ying across his face, ¡°A senior bullying a junior?¡±

    ¡°Begone!¡± Ning Yan''s voice sliced through the air, cold and unyielding.

    ¡°Heh heh...¡± Holy Son Chu chuckled darkly, eyes concealed a depth of malicious coldness.

    ¡°Holy Son Chu, it seems Great Sword Venerable Ning is unaware of the horrifying existence thisd has offended, eh?¡± Elder Fan whispered into his ear.

    ¡°Heh heh.¡± A continued chuckle from Holy Son Chu.

    ¡°With her here, today¡¯s n to butcher Yun Xiao is foiled,¡± Elder Fan whispered.

    ¡°Ning Yan? Merely a Great Sword Venerable, daring to suppress me with magic power?¡± A venomous glint flickered through Holy Son Chu¡¯s eyes, ¡°Fine! Let her bring this little beast back to Sword Heaven, and make a thorough fool of herself!¡±

    ¡°s, we arrived toote to save the family of Ye Tiance,¡± Elder Fanmented.

    ¡°Just being here was enough,¡± Holy Son Chu remarked indifferently.

    ¡°Wise words from the Holy Son.¡± Elder Fan offered aplimentary smile.

    Their whispers ceased, and Holy Son Chu sharply lifted his head, eyes gleaming as he stared at Ning Yan and Yun Xiao.

    He suddenly apuded,ughing heartily, ¡°Excellent! Splendid! Congrattions to Great Sword Venerable Ning for bringing back a prodigy to Sword Heaven. Perhaps when he achieves great things, he might help Sword Heaven topple the Forbidden Tower? You will be hailed as a hero of Sword Heaven!¡±

    ¡°Heh heh...¡± Elder Fan alsoughed, his expression mocking, reveling in the unsaid.

    ¡°At the very least, he is not inferior to you!¡± Ning Yan retorted, a hint of defiance in her voice.

    ¡°Inferior to me? Fine! I''ll give him three years, let¡¯s see if he can catch up to me.¡± Holy Son Chu chuckled, ¡°Shall we establish a three-year promise, to give him a chance to p my face?¡±

    ¡°Holy Son Chu, do not underestimate a young pauper,¡± Elder Fan quipped cheerily.

    ¡°Is such a measly life worth it?¡± Holy Son Chu, having finishedughing, nced contemptuously at Yun Xiao and shrugged his shoulders. They were simply waiting for Ning Yan to escort someone back to Sword Heaven to make a fool of herself!

    No more sarcasm was exchanged, and the two turned to leave.

    ¡°Holy Son Chu!¡± At this moment, the perpetually silent Yun Xiao suddenly shouted.

    ¡°What is it?¡± Holy Son Chu turned back, eyes chillingly regarding him.

    ¡°You think you can just walk away after passing wind?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    Upon these words, Ning Yan paused, taken aback! This was the Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son! He was on the brink of leaving; why stir the pot now?

    The folks from Azure Spirit were equally startled, their hearts skipping a beat.

    Holy Son Chu''s mood immediately soured. A vein popped on his forehead and his face darkened.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, you really won''t cry until you see your own coffin! Today, someone spared your miserable life, yet you don¡¯t cherish it, instead seeking your own demise, is that it?¡± Elder Fan¡¯s tiger-like eyes red, taking a step forward, his Mid Origin Core Realm power imposingly suppressing Yun Xiao.

    Simultaneously, his grave voice addressed Ning Yan, ¡°Great Sword Venerable Ning, this child, relying on your protection, dares to disrespect even the Forbidden Tower¡¯s Saint. How utterly brainless? Do you still admire him?¡±

    The underlying message was clear. This man was bound to spell major trouble!

    "Yun Xiao, shut your mouth!" Ning Yan turned and red at him.

    "Kneel and apologize to Holy Son Chu! Otherwise, you''ll be leaving without a pair of legs today!" Elder Fan shouted. They were about to leave! And now they''d been insulted like this? Yun Xiao was begging to be killed!

    After Elder Fan spoke, his power cascaded out once more, materializing into a formidable lion, vaulting over Ning Yan and bearing down on Yun Xiao.

    "Do it!" Ning Yan coldly instructed Yun Xiao. Of course, she had no wish to bring back a headstrong young man who wouldn''t be disciplined!

    What was Holy Son Chu''s status? As a Great Sword Venerable, she could suppress him a little, but this youth was utterly out of line. If not disciplined today, then when?

    "Do it?" Yun Xiao nced at her, a delicate icy sheen in his gaze. <i>HUM! </i>Suddenly, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul appeared in his hand! Two Sword Rings! Twenty-nineyers of Sword Aura! With the appearance of this sword, the power of death surged.

    Yun Xiao abruptly turned towards Elder Fan. "You didn''t let me test my Sword Soul the other time, didn''t you?" His voice was a chilling slice through bone.

    "Heh heh!" Elder Fanughed. Even at a time like this, he was still talking about the events of the Eight Swords Conve? "Yun Xiao, as long as I''m here, you are doomed to never be a prodigy!" he dered.

    "Oh, thank you for that!" After Yun Xiao spoke, the Sword Soul in his hand suddenly transformed into a Flying Sword and burst forth! The gleaming azure Flying Sword, astonishingly, sought to y Elder Fan!

    "You?!" Elder Fan was shocked. What was happening? He was forcing this kid to kneel! He hadn¡¯t even made his move, and this kid had drawn his sword against him first? Holy Son Chu of the Forbidden Tower was standing right beside him!

    "Ten-Step Scale?" Ning Yan''s eyelids twitched. This was a secret technique of the Sword Pavilion. And naturally, Sword Heaven possessed it too.

    "You could have lived until tomorrow, but you¡¯re insistent on dying today?" Elder Fan roared. He suddenly drew out his Golden Lion Sword Soul. Gripping it with both hands, his eyes locked on the azure Flying Sword, and he shed mightily! Ten-Step Scale was a technique with a formidable reputation. He was familiar with it, aware of the method to counteract it!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM...! </i>The azure sword rays detonated in ten sessive explosions, sparking ten scale-like ripples in the air, spiraling murderously towards Elder Fan in a blink!

    "Hah!" Elder Fan snorted coldly, and on the count of the eighth sound, the Golden Lion Sword Soul swept across. "Shatter, sword!" His confidence brimmed! He was seemingly poised to strike the azure Flying Sword, moments away from a critical hit.

    <i>BOOM BOOM!! </i>However, that azure Flying Sword spiraled twice like a darting fish right before his eyes!

    "What?!" Elder Fan¡¯s eyes bulged, hisplexion taking a drastic, pallid turn. <i>THWACK! </i>After spiraling, the azure sword impaled his chest, puncturing through his torso.

    <i>PUFF! </i>A stter of blood illuminated Elder Fan¡¯s chest. With a pain-wrought scream, his face twisted into a visage of agony, his whole body flung backward by the might of the flying sword.

    "Twelve-Step Scale?" Ning Yan was thoroughly stunned, her eyshes quivering wildly. For a moment, she became utterly engrossed in the swordy technique, forgetting to intervene.

    ¡°Hm?¡± Holy Son Chu almost got knocked over by Elder Fan. He, admittedly, was not acquainted with the Ten-Step Scale. "This Fan Jing is truly useless!" He gritted his teeth. In punishing a dog, one should be mindful of its owner!

    "Today, if I don¡¯t annihte you, vile servant, my title as Holy Son is yours for the taking!" Just as rage was surging in the Holy Son Chu, in that instant, a white shadow whisked past him.

    Yun Xiao moved to kill!

    ¡°Presumptuous child!¡± Elder Fan roared, suppressing the excruciating pain in his chest, and sprang up vigorously.

    Yun Xiao, with an impassive demeanor, had already in his way to his front.

    <i>Azure Dragon Squall! Second Move, Ask the Heavens!</i>

    A sword resembling an enraged dragon! The white robe unleashed a violent tempest with his azure sword, assailing Elder Fan like a tornado. Yun Xiao shed fiercely!

    <i>KLANG! </i>Just as Elder Fan managed to stand, the colossal force transmitted through Yun Xiao''s sword sent the elder''s Sword Soul flying.

    ¡°No!¡± Elder Fan''s face paled, his eyelids twitching wildly, his mind a nk te. The young man in white, looming before him, delivered the next sword strike swiftly, ruthlessly, and urately.

    <i>SPLAT! </i>The azure sword instantaneously perforated Elder Fan¡¯s Dantian! His Origin Core was pierced by the sword tip, exploding spectacrly, obliterating the elder''s back into a grotesque mesh of blood and flesh.

    "Uh!" Elder Fan''s eyes, wide as a frightened frog''s, ckened onto Yun Xiao¡¯s sword, while a cascade of ck blood gushed from his mouth. He was now incapacitated!

    Yet his mind had not caught up, there remained a dazed perplexity. Holy Son Chu was right there, wasn''t he?! Even Ning Yan pressured Yun Xiao! Shouldn¡¯t thisd be trembling, kneeling? His confidence was shattered. How did it happen? A quick session of blows, and his sixty years of dedicated cultivation was rendered useless?

    Elder Fan, his body aze with piercing pain, stared nkly ahead, his eyes filled with disoriented torment.

    With a soft sinister squelch, Yun Xiao''s one hand gripped Elder Fan''s neck, holding him aloft while the other firmly gripped Heaven Burial. "Elder Fan, you wouldn''t let me test my Sword Soul, would you?" He leaned in, his expression as cold as frost.

    "Yun Xiao, we can talk this through!" Elder Fan shuddered, a looming cloud of dread casting shadows upon him.

    <i>PUFF!! </i>Yun Xiao¡¯s sword punctured through Elder Fan''s chest, impaling him.

    "You took away the Sword Inheritance Stone, so I must use your body for the test instead, Elder Fan," Yun Xiao uttered, a chilling smile ying across his face.

    "No! Please!" Elder Fan pleaded, his voice a pained wail.

    <i>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </i>Eighteen sessive stabs thundered into his chest! Elder Fan''s chest resembled a ho''s nest, wholly perforated.

    "Elder Fan, could you identify the rank of my Sword Soul for me?" Yun Xiao coldly quipped, withdrawing his sword only to thrust it into Elder Fan''s mouth.

    "Holy... Son... Chu..." With a violent shudder, and eyes dimming to a muted despair, Elder Fan''s body went limp.

    "In your next life, don''t obstruct my Sword Soul testing!" Yun Xiao said before tossing the corpse away.

    <i>THUD! </i>The bloody, mutted corpsended before Holy Son Chu, who instinctively recoiled three steps backward. Everything had transpired in a mere heartbeat. By the time Holy Son Chu could process the situation and react, Elder Fan was thoroughly killed.

    "Yun! Xiao!" Holy Son Chu gazed down on the Elder Fan''s corpse, fists clenched tightly, and as his head lifted, his eyes unveiled an abyss of murderous intent and fury. He was going to kill this youth before his eyes! As the Holy Son of the Forbidden Tower, this was the first time he''d faced such disrespect!

    "You really won''t understand the meaning of death until I teach you it personally, huh?" Holy Son Chu snarled maliciously.

    "Oh, but I do. Just take a look at his chest," Yun Xiao gestured nonchntly towards the elder.

    Holy Son Chu nced down once more, his eyes widening in abhorrence.

    Eighteen stabs marked the elder, the resultant holes conveniently forming the character for <i>death!</i>

    "Insolence!" Holy Son Chu''s eyes became a sprawling canvas of crimson. "Ning Yan!" His voice, alight with a fierce inferno, swung towards the ck-skirted beauty.

    Ning Yan was stunned. "Yun Xiao, kneel and apologize to Holy Son Chu now!" Ning Yan scolded, her voice a shattering decree in the silence.

    "No need! That opportunity is lost!" Holy Son Chu kicked aside the corpse of Elder Fan and fixed his gaze on Yun Xiao. "You mere mortal cultivator, daring to defy the might of a Holy Son. I dere now, anyone who dares to save you today will see their entire lineage extinguished once I ascend!" His words, venomous and final, were aimed at Ning Yan.

    "Great Sword Venerable Ning, please give Yun Xiao a chance!" Chen Dong, his heart quivering, hastily knelt before Ning Yan.

    "Please, Great Sword Venerable, grant Yun Xiao an opportunity!"

    In an instant, all three thousand Sword Cultivators of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, except Zhao Xuanran, astonishingly knelt halfway in a collective plea.

    Ning Yan, her heart ame with anger, coldly uttered, "What chance? What use is there in bringing a disobedient man to Sword Heaven? He brought this upon himself; I cannot interfere!"

    Upon hearing this, despair swallowed the crowd whole.

    "Everyone, stand down!" Suddenly, a serene voice rang out.

    The crowd from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect lifted their heads to see Yun Xiao''s burning gaze looking back at them.

    "Like I said, stand down!" Yun Xiao repeated.

    With a synchronized rustle, everyone promptly rose.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao cast another nce at Ning Yan. Then, he turned and strode towards Holy Son Chu.

 Chapter 076 - One Sword Shrouds the Heavens!

    <h4>Chapter 076 - One Sword Shrouds the Heavens!</h4>

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao''s eyes shed an icy glint, and the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand transformed into a three-foot azure de, pointing sharply towards Holy Son Chu.

    "You dare point your sword at me?" Holy Son Chu''s face darkened immeasurably. With a stretch of his hand, a dazzling Sword Soul abruptly appeared! Astonishingly, it was a dual-colored Sword Soul, with violet on the left and crimson on the right! The left part was engulfed in a sinister, rolling wind, while the right part zed with intense fire!

    Yun Xiao was witnessing such a Sword Soul for the first time. Atop the Sword Soul were clearly two Sword Rings, one violet and one crimson, embodying both me and icy enchantments!

    This was unmistakably a genuine Sword Soul above the Comet grade! Whether it was Moon or grade, Yun Xiao did not know. Nor did he have any interest in knowing! In fact, he would''ve been a little disappointed if the Holy Son of the Forbidden Tower didn''t at least have this bit of skill.

    "Point it at you? I''ll do a lot more than that" Yun Xiao let out a cold chuckle. <i>WHOOSH! </i>With a sudden stomp, the white robed youth soared, daringly sending a sword strike towards Holy Son Chu! That azure sword resembling a coiled dragon threatened to swallow him whole!

    As the sword emerged, the crowd waspletely shocked. "How dare you! On death¡¯s doorstep, and yet you still dare to challenge me?" Holy Son Chu¡¯s eyes were stern, his teeth gritted.

    <i>HUM! </i>Holy Son Chu gripped his violet-crimson Sword Soul, his sword pointing at Yun Xiao, a murderous aura catapulting from his eyes. "y!" With a fierce shout, wind sprung beneath his feet, his robe tumultuously rolling, magical power bursting forth!

    "The might of a Holy Son, and yet an insignificant mortal like you dares to contend with me?" Holy Son Chu scoffed.

    "A Holy Son? More like a spoiled son?" Yun Xiaoughed. Not ying demons, but killing those who did? This was called a Holy Son? A sh of icy light in his eyes, the three-foot azure de in his hand violently erupted forth.

    <i>Azure Dragon Squall! The Third Move, Ask the Dao!</i>

    This was the strongest sword of the Azure Dragon Squall, one''s heart asking the dao! The strongest strike!

    Shouldn''t a Holy Son showpassion to the people? Why was he showing off and unting his power instead? These were the questions Yun Xiao wanted to ask, to seek rity!

    Yun Xiao''s sword and the fiery will within him fused together. As his sword intent and thought reached a deeperprehension, the momentum behind his sword increased exponentially!

    Yun Xiao had once elevated the Ten-Step Scale to new heights, a frightening achievement to outsiders. However, wasn''t this Palm Sword Technique, Azure Dragon Squall, in his hand also exceeding levels and soaring to new heights?

    A sword like a dragon burst forth. The sword energy resembled an azure tempest shaped like a dragon. This one sword strike kicked up a sky full of dust, erupting with a deafening roar, as it charged straight toward Holy Son Chu!

    "You dare unt your petty tricks in front of the Forbidden Tower?" Holy Son Chu sneered. His dual coloured Sword Soul thrust forward, conjuring whirlpools of both water and fire, akin to twin behemoths enveloping Yun Xiao.

    Sure enough, the Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son did have some skills up his sleeve!

    "Petty tricks? It''s still enough to obliterate you!" Yun Xiao''s sword technique morphed once again, the Azure Dragon Squall splitting into three, ferociously biting towards Holy Son Chu.

    Two of the dragon squalls immediately tore through Holy Son Chu¡¯s sword technique, and the final dragon squall pierced menacingly towards Holy Son Chu¡¯s face!

    "Damn it!!!" Holy Son Chu¡¯s world went dark, his body erupting in goosebumps; he rolled hastily on the spot.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Yun Xiao¡¯s sword whizzed past, merely inches from his head!

    <i>RIP! </i>Blood sprayed the air as one of Holy Son Chu''s ears was sliced off courtesy of Yun Xiao¡¯s sword tip!

    "Ah!!" Holy Son Chu rolled onto the ground, half his face awash with blood, his whole body smeared with filth. His ear had been severed by Yun Xiao! The sharp pain on his face confirmed that all of this was too real!

    <i>BAM! </i>Yun Xiao''s leg violently connected with Holy Son Chu''s abdomen, eliciting a scream, as he crumpled to the ground, curling like a cooked shrimp.

    "I was defeated?" His face contorted, a buzzing filling his head. The mighty Holy Son Chu had been defeated!

    "Holy Son Chu, you really know how to put on a show. You¡¯re merely at the Mid Origin Core Realm. And here I thought you were at the Establishment Origin Core Realm!" Yun Xiao stood firm, plucking a bloodied ear from his sword tip. "Is this the ear of the Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son? Pretty weak. It can''t even take a little sh, can it?"

    <i>SPUTTER! </i>Holy Son Chu spat out a mouthful of blood. He''d never suffered such humiliation and disgrace before! It was! unbearable!

    "Look at you, you even gave me three years, and set a three-year promise?" Yun Xiao''s expression was mocking. "Are you worthy? You can¡¯t even beat me now, yet you have the face to talk about three yearster?"

    Holy Son Chu felt a sweetness in his throat, the regurgitated blood assaulting his heart again.

    The onlookers were collectively taken aback.

    "Junior Brother Yun, did he just beat the Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son?" Cai Maomao was bbergasted.

    "He''s too awesome!" Qin Tong couldn''t help but exim.

    "That was too satisfying!" the crowd muttered internally.

    Although how the consequences would unfold was uncertain, who wished to be oppressed by this scoundrel? Not even for a day! All eyes turned to Ning Yan.

    This ck-dressed beauty stood with her lips slightly parted, her expression somewhat stunned. "A prodigy of Azure Spirit, defeating the Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son of the same age, even before cultivating in my Sword Heaven?"

    What did this suggest? It was as clear as day! Yun Xiao''s talent surpassed that of the Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son!

    "I just tried to force him to kneel in front of Holy Son Chu... What was I thinking?" Ning Yan''s expression wilted with embarrassment. Heat crept up her back, surely many from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect were snickering at her!

    "Yun Xiao, you are doomed!" Holy Son Chu sprang up, his eyes flooded with malicious intent.

    "Me, doomed?" Yun Xiao snorted coldly. He abruptly moved, his sword intent surged again, ying forth!

    "You?!" Holy Son Chu, struck by his murderous aura and momentum, froze. He understood. Thisd truly dared to kill him!

    A shudder traveled through Holy Son Chu''s core, turning to flee while shouting, "Ning Yan, won¡¯t you save me?!" His words barely escaped when Yun Xiao''s Ten-Step Scale sword technique, a lethal Flying Sword, lunged towards the back of Holy Son Chu''s head!

    "AAHHH! NOI" Sensing the sword behind him, Holy Son Chu turned pale as a ghost and wet his pants in a panic.

    <i>KLANG! </i>Fortunately, at that moment, a ck flying sword soared through the air, parrying Yun Xiao''s deathly strike!

    Ning Yan had acted! Had she hesitated, Holy Son Chu¡¯s head would have been burst open!

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>She blinked in front of Holy Son Chu, shielding him and bellowed, "Yun Xiao, Imand you to stop!" She red at Yun Xiao, her expression stern.

    Meanwhile, Holy Son Chu, letting out a panicky yelp, copsed, then hurriedly scrambled up, hiding behind Ning Yan, his body quaking uncontrobly!

    The spectators from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect couldn''t help butugh. This was the Forbidden Tower¡¯s Holy Son? He''d arrived with such authority, acting domineering as he looked down upon all. Now, he was getting toyed with by Yun Xiao. This Holy Son was nothing more than a cowering pig!

    "Yun Xiao, don''t you forget the name Chu Yan. I swear I''ll have you torn to a thousand pieces in five days!" Holy Son Chu snarled. He''d suddenly regrown a backbone after receiving Ning Yan''s protection.

    "What? You''re still talking?" Yun Xiao sent forth his Flying Sword! This time, Ning Yan did not block the Twelve-Step Scale.

    <i>PUFF! </i>The Flying Sword lunged forth, returning with yet another ear from Holy Son Chu!

    "Keep talking, Holy Son Chu?" Yun Xiao grinned.

    "AHHH!!" Clutching his mouth, Holy Son Chu dared not utter another word!

    "Yun Xiao, if you truly kill him, you¡¯ll stir up a colossal cmity!" Ning Yan spoke, her chest heaving with indignation. Even after she had intervened, thisd still dared to strike fiercely? He hadn¡¯t even regarded her with importance!

    "So what if I kill him? What''ll happen then?" Yun Xiao sheathed his Flying Sword, his face a tranquil mask.

    "The entire Forbidden Tower will hunt you! You might escape, but can your family, your loved ones?" Ning Yan was lost for words.

    "My apologies, I have no family, no ties. Naturally, I y whom I wish!" Yun Xiao responded evenly.

    Ning Yan was visibly irate. No family, really? "What about your sect! Don¡¯t you fear they¡¯ll be dragged into your mess?" She turned around, gesturing towards the members of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect.

    "My sect?" Yun Xiao paused for a moment.

    "In this life, without power, without a backing, often you have no choice but to bow your head! Do you understand now?" Ning Yan scoffed.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao chuckled, "Oh, Great Sword Venerable Ning, you worry too much. After ughtering the Northern Wastnds'' demons, we Sword Cultivators from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect are departing today to hunt demons across the thousand mortal nations. Who has time to bother with the Forbidden Tower?"

    "Can they hunt demons forever?" Ning Yan retorted with a coldugh.

    "Why not ask how long the Forbidden Tower canst under my hand instead!" Yun Xiao countered.

    Not allowed to kill Holy Son Chu? With his three-foot-long azure de, there was no one in this world beyond Yun Xiao''s reach!

    If it weren¡¯t for Ning Yan stubbornly shielding him, he would have obliterated Holy Son Chu right there and then. Such was his unyielding spirit.

    In this second life as the Creator Immortal, how could he tolerate such insolence?

    "And you dare to utter such arrogance against the entire Forbidden Tower?" Ning Yan was utterly speechless. She realized, she and thisd simply could notmunicate.

    "Holy Son Chu, I''ll take you back to the Forbidden Tower," Ning Yan dered.

    "Yes! Please quickly!" Holy Son Chu hurriedly agreed. He didn''t dare to mount his Sovereign Sword, fearing Yun Xiao might strike him down with a single de.

    "Great Sword Venerable Ning!" Yun Xiao watched their retreating figures, "So will you still test my Sword Soul at Sword Heaven tomorrow?"

    Ning Yan paused, gritting her teeth, and uttered a single word. "Yes!"

    With that, she shielded Holy Son Chu and took to the skies.

    "Fine." Yun Xiao gave a chilling smile. He disliked Ning Yan. As for Sword Heaven, he''d reserve his judgment since he hadn''t visited yet.

    Nevertheless, now that the demons of the Northern Wastnds were annihted, all of Azure Spirit''s Sword Cultivators would fulfill their duty by diving into the mortal realm to save themon folk...

    Yun Xiao also had a vital mission! He was determined to keep Zhao Jianxing alive! He had to confront Ye Guying, who would emerge from seclusion in five days! For that, he had to go to the Sea of Swords; he had to go to Sword Heaven! He was going to test his Sword Soul tomorrow!

    "There''s no way everyone in Sword Heaven is like Ning Yan, right? I refuse to believe everyone there is as blind as she is!" Yun Xiao muttered. If that were the case, he''d rather just stay in Azure Spirit.

    "Yun Xiao..." The three thousand Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators gazed at him, their eyes a mix of heaviness andplexity.

    "Everyone, rx a bit! As long as I have my sword, there''s nothing I fear in the world!." Yun Xiao suddenly smiled, a radiant, sunlit grin lighting up his face. At that moment, the gloomy clouds of the Northern Wastnds finally scattered entirely, allowing a long-absent light to gently caress the blighted world below.

    Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul, clutched tightly in hand, shimmered gloriously under the newly emerging sunlight, emanating a power that pulsated through every observer''s heart.

    "We believe in you, Yun Xiao!" A chorus arose, fierce and hopeful, "Let those pretentious fools at the Sea of Swords witness what a true Sword Immortal is!"

    The spirits of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect were set alight, anticipation fervent in their eyes, hearts aze with an unspoken, collective longing.

    Among the crowd, Zhao Xuanran¡¯s ck gown swayed subtly in the wind, its tranquil flow reflecting a faint, ghostly luminescence under the scrutinizing gaze of the sunlight. Beneath the serene exterior, a passionate fervor brewed silently.

    "If only Father knew of the good news here... He would surely be overjoyed..." Her thoughts, a bittersweet concoction, kindled a warmth that welled in the hearts of those around her.

    ¡°May the Sect Master be rewarded for his kindness!¡± All eyes converged upon Yun Xiao. He had be the solitary beacon of hope for Zhao Jianxing''s safe return.

    ¡°Yun Xiao will surely retrieve the Sword Tempering Pill!¡± Elder Wang dered with unwavering conviction.

    In just one day, the Northern Wastnds had been pierced through with lethal resolve. And in five days¡¯ time, the Sea of Swords would surely be eclipsed by a veil of swords.

    With a whistling sound that seemed to slice through the very heavens, three thousand Sword Cultivators from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect soared, riding their swords and tearing through the clouds.

    "Homebound!"

 Chapter 077 - If You Ride a Tiger, Its Hard to Get Off!

    <h4>Chapter 077 - If You Ride a Tiger, It''s Hard to Get Off!</h4>

    The Sea of Swords, the Forbidden Tower. A ck tower pierced the clouds, its body adorned with various runes, emanating a chilling and solemn aura that kept ordinary folk at a respectable distance. Surrounding the dark tower, numerous pce courtyards and pavilionsy scattered.

    "Yun Xiao!" Holy Son Chu, gritted through those words, fists tightly clenched, eyes brimming with malice, as he marched forward, head bowed. A strip of white cloth was bound around his head, swathing the bloody holes that were once his ears. Even after half a day, the pain from the wounds twisted his features.

    "Chu Yan." Ahead, a middle-aged man in a ck robe stood outside a hall, waving toward the Holy Son, "Where have you been? Come here at once!"

    "Master Xiao...!" Holy Son Chu¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Subconsciously adjusting the bandage on his head, he then advanced toward the ck-robed man.

    Xiao He did not scrutinize him closely, instead turning and entering the hall while remarking, "That girl Lin Lin from Sword Heaven was looking for you. She¡¯s been waiting quite a while."

    "Lin Lin?" Holy Son Chu''s expression tightened abruptly upon hearing the name.

    "Brother Chu!" Hardly setting foot in the courtyard, a charming young girl dressed in a short, goose-yellow skirt dashed over. Delightfully cute with cherry lips, a sculpted nose, bright eyes, and radiant teeth, she was utterly captivating.

    The moment Holy Son Chu returned, she naturally took his hand,ining, "You promised to go to the painting exhibition with me today. How could you stand me up? Ugh! I¡¯m mad!"

    Her words broke off suddenly, and with a soft "Eh," her lovely face tensed slightly. "Brother Chu, why is your head wrapped in a bandage? Are you hurt?"

    "Chu Yan, you''re bleeding?" Master Xiao He, too, noticed. From his perspective, he could faintly see blood seeping through the bandage.

    Holy Son Chu offered an awkward smile, shaking his head in dismissal. "It¡¯s nothing, just a minor injury!"

    "It looks like your ear is hurt?" Lin Lin frowned slightly, her face painted with concern.

    "It''s fine, it''s fine... they¡¯re still there!" Holy Son Chu replied through gritted teeth, but uttering those words felt like bleeding inwardly. How could he admit in front of this girl that admired him that his ears were gone? Wouldn¡¯t his majestic Holy Son image copse instantly? A man without ears, what elegance and gantry could he talk about?

    "Chu Yan, who did you fight with?" Xiao He¡¯s gaze cooled.

    "Yeah, Brother Chu, who dared to cross you? We¡¯ll mobilize the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven to hunt him down together!" Lin Lin, hands curled into small fists, spoke with a hint of fury.

    "This..." Holy Son Chu found himself in a quandary.

    Xiao He''s gaze grew colder, his voice grave. "Who daresy a hand on my prot¨¦g¨¦, Chu Yan? Just name them, and I''ll extinguish them! If they have a protector, I''ll destroy them too!"

    "No need!" Holy Son Chu offered a sheepish smile, saying, "He''s just a waste. If Ning Yan weren''t shielding him, I would''ve ughtered him already!"

    "Ning Yan?" Xiao He frowned, puzzled. "Does that woman have a sick mind, daring to oppose you?"

    "Auntie Ning?" Lin Lin¡¯s eyes shed a sliver of disgust. "Who is she protecting?"

    Both stared solemnly at Holy Son Chu as he clenched his teeth for a lengthy moment.

    "Is he someone from my Sword Heaven, Brother Chu? Tell me quickly, I''ll punish him for you!" Lin Lin, holding onto Chu Yan¡¯s hand, pouted.

    Finding himself between a rock and a hard ce, Holy Son Chu, stiffening his resolve, began with a coldugh, "It¡¯s a young man from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, named Yun Xiao. He once shattered the Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone with his Sword Soul, hailed as a prodigy that defies the heavens. Ning Yan has taken a liking to him and wants to bring him back to Sword Heaven."

    "He''s already in Sword Heaven? I¡¯ll go ughter him now!" Lin Lin spoke fiercely.

    "No need." Holy Son Chu chuckled, saying, "He¡¯s merely waste. I¡¯ve taught him a lesson, nearly crippled him."

    "Your injuries..." Lin Lin gazed at him, her heart aching visibly.

    "This cheekyd has quite the audacity. I let my guard down for just a moment, and hended a sneaky strike," Holy Son Chu spoke, his voice a low rumble.

    "How disgraceful! Attacking sneakily because hecks genuine strength?" Lin Lin¡¯s eyes shed disdainfully, "Auntie Ning is such a wicked woman, and the so-called genius she''s taken a liking to has a character as lowly as hers! It seems like this supposed genius is to my Brother Chu as a mouse is to a true dragon."

    "Absolutely! Once I made my move, this alleged prodigy couldn¡¯t even handle a single strike of mine. Heh," Holy Son Chu smirked, although hisughter hitched when a twinge of pain flickered through his ear. The emptiness there was both literal and throbbing.

    "He couldn¡¯t handle even one strike?" Xiao He shook his head, addressing Holy Son Chu, "You must''ve practiced the Dao incorrectly in your early stages, falling somewhat short of the other Forbidden Tower geniuses. If this person can''t even handle a single sword strike from you, he indeed is not worth mentioning."

    "It seems Aunt Ning has picked up trash and is treating it like a treasure," Lin Linughed in disbelief. She knew it. That woman was simply a disgrace! A disgrace in story and action alike!

    "Heh," Holy Son Chu continued to chuckle, fists tightly clenched, his gaze unwavering upon Lin Lin. "Lin¡¯er, if not for Ning Yan''s favor, I''d have in such a despicable man with a single stroke... However, your Sword Heaven has always been a ce of purity and nobility, detesting defilement. I worry this rat droppings, sheltered by Ning Yan, will tarnish your parents¡¯ reputation."

    "Brother Chu, worry not!" Lin Lin huffed coldly. "I will return now and speak to my parents, ensuring this person is expelled, forbidden even half a step into my Sword Heaven!"

    Upon finishing, seeing the bandage on Holy Son Chu''s head, recalling that despicable person daring to ambush the Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son, she clenched her teeth in anger, adding, "No, I¡¯ll have my father execute him directly, preventing him from harming others in the future!"

    "Forget it, just prevent him from entering Sword Heaven. If I see him again without anyone to protect him, I¡¯ll effortlessly execute him," Holy Son Chu responded.

    "No! A mere Azure Spirit Sword Cultivator is hardly worth the Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son taking action twice, right?" Lin Lin held Holy Son Chu''s hand, her voice gentle and sweet: "Brother Chu, let me share your burden this time, alright?"

    "Alright then!" Holy Son Chu indulged her with a doting smile.

    "Yun Xiao, you think you¡¯ve arrived in Sword Heaven, about to soar to new heights? Sorry, I¡¯ve dug your pitfall... The moment you die, and after I ughter the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, who would know I was once defeated by you? Would Ning Yan dare speak? Even if she did, who would believe her?" Holy Son Chu coldly sneered in his heart.

    The journey back from the Northern Wastnds was a continuous internal torment.

    His reputation, his prestige, how could it crumble so easily?

    The illustrious Forbidden Tower''s Holy Son, obliterated by an Azure Spirit Sword Cultivator!

    If the word spread, the entire Forbidden Tower would be shamed!

    "When you are dead, dispersed like smoke in the wind, who will care about your dry bones as I ascend through the heavens?" Holy Son Chu¡¯s eyes harbored a chilling darkness.

    "Brother Chu, I''m going back right now!" Her words lingered as her elegant, light-yellow silhouette vanished from Holy Son Chu¡¯s sight.

    "Chu Yan," Xiao He spoke solemnly after Lin Lin left, "Did you say, Azure Spirit Sword Sect?"

    "Yes," Holy Son Chu nodded.

    "Isn¡¯t that the sect of Ye Guying, the peerless genius?" Xiao He asked, puzzled.

    "Yes, Master Xiao!" Beads of sweat formed on Holy Son Chu¡¯s forehead.

    "Within Ye Guying''s sect, are there other talents? Even if they barely qualify, why hasn¡¯t he introduced them to the Forbidden Tower?" Xiao He queried curiously.

    Seeing that he couldn''t hide it, Holy Son Chu ryed the information Elder Fan had shared with him.

    "He exterminated Ye Guying''s Family?" Xiao He uttered in shock.

    "Yes! By the time I arrived, it was already toote! Even now, the souls of Ye Guying¡¯s elder brother and father remain in the Bluedrop g," Holy Son Chu ground his teeth.

    "This is significant! Ye Tiance is so crucial to the Forbidden Tower! I¡¯ve heard he is a man of deep loyalty!" Xiao He''s voice sharpened.

    "Yes! Hence, I am considering reporting this to the Tower Lord," Holy Son Chu spoke coldly.

    "Why would Ning Yan dare to bring people into Sword Heaven, knowing the animosity between Ye Guying and Yun Xiao?" Xiao He inquired, an eyebrow cocked in curiosity.

    A sly, cold chuckle slipped from Holy Son Chu¡¯s lips. "Clearly, she''s oblivious. I purposefully kept her in the dark, sending her to make a fool of herself in Sword Heaven!"

    This wasn¡¯t merely a matter of disgrace. Xiao He intoned, his voice slicing through the still air like a dagger, "This could bring about her own demise!"

    "Yes! All part of the n!" The light of murderous intent flickered in Holy Son Chu''s eyes. With Ning Yan dead, no one would speak of the disgrace.

    The folks of Sea of Swords held no trust for the words of an Azure Spirit Sword Cultivator.

    "I daresay, the Tower Lord regards Ye Guying as even more precious than his own life! We must report this promptly!" Urgency bled through Xiao He¡¯s voice.

    "Indeed!"

    The pair hastened toward the Forbidden Tower.

    "You mentioned Yun Xiao shattered the Rank Two Sword Inheritance Stone?" Xiao He queried as they trotted.

    Holy Son Chu snorted, nonchnt. "I could break it too, hardly noteworthy! With Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower allied in fury, he''s as good as dead. Does the rank of his Sword Soul even matter?"

    "Well, yes!" Xiao He scoffed, "Unless he also manages to blow up the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Sword Stone!"

    "And if he does?" Holy Son Chu paused, puzzled.

    "Well, I wouldn''t know, for throughout the history of the Sea of Swords, no Star grade Sword Soul has ever arisen!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Azure Spirit, Sword Pavilion. As dusk draped its gentle shroud over thend, three thousand Sword Cultivators returned, an illustrious homing that beckoned jubnt cheers and a spectacle that hadn¡¯t graced these grounds in a millennium!

    There, amidst the throng, a young man in white became faith personified to the onlooking multitude.

    Ultimately, tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators gathered in front of the graves of the Seven Prodigies of the Sword Pavilion, raising their swords, pouring out libations, and paying heartfelt respects.

    "May your souls finally find peace and rejoin the cycle of reincarnation," they whispered, a collective murmur that danced with the wind.

    "Senior brothers and sisters... if fate allows, may we meet again in the next life," Zhao Xuanran, kneeling before the graves, tears jeweling her eyes, whispered her farewell.

    Seven serene spirits, faces painted with tranquil smiles, dissipated into the ethereal embrace of the mountains and rivers of Azure Spirit...

    "Brother!" Cai Maomao, after chasing for what seemed an eternity, copsed to the ground, his tears falling like relentless rain.

    Death was immutable. Except for Yun Xiao.

    After the sacrificial toasting, Zhao Xuanran stood, her eyes, gleaming with unwavering resolve, swept across the tens of thousands of Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators.

    "For three years, Azure Spirit has failed the people of the thousand mortal nations. When mortals are in distress, it is our unshirkable duty as Sword Cultivators to lend aid. Henceforth, in ordance with the will of our predecessors, I decide to utilize the full strength of Azure Spirit, leaving no one behind, to enter the mortal realm and eradicate demons!" Her sword lifted, pointed to the heavens with determination gleaming in her eyes.

    "We will not return to Azure Spirit until the demons are annihted!"

    Tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators, swords raised, united in resolve, shared a singr creed. Entering the mortal realm to eliminate demons, they could not wait a moment longer! This, this was the true spirit of Azure Spirit! A moment of undeniable righteousness enveloped them!

    "Junior Brother Yun! Take care..." The woman in the ck gown soared upwards on her Sovereign Sword, her figure dancing in the wind, her skirt and long hair twirling in tandem. Her luminous skin and bright eyes shone equally under the moonlight, and her delicate form seemed a dream in the lunar glow. The fluttering strands of her hair brushed past her cheeks, prompting Yun Xiao to involuntarily savor the lingering fragrance they left behind.

    The path of immortality was vast and surreal like a dream. Yet Zhao Xuanran was so achingly real! Her strong liquor, her gentleness, her delicate scent...

    "Take care!" A trace of a smile lingered perpetually at the corner of Yun Xiao''s mouth, immortalized in that moment.

 Chapter 078 - Wait For Me To Wipe Out the Forbidden Tower!

    <h4>Chapter 078 - Wait For Me To Wipe Out the Forbidden Tower!</h4>

    With Zhao Xuanran having departed, the mountains of Azure Spirit seemed especially deste that night. Yun Xiao, with his sword beneath him, stood atop these lonely peaks, his white robes dancing gracefully in the gentle breeze.

    "The world still holds its integrity!" Yun Xiao proimed, his voice echoing into the vast emptiness. "So, even when unupied, the spirits of Azure Spirit caress the hills tonight, emanating unabated purity and openness."

    Yet, merely three days prior, Azure Spirit, despite its liveliness, was shrouded by malevolence, its nighttime woods haunted by spectral shadows, ominously sinister.

    "Azure Spirit is better devoid of people; the mortal world will be better off!¡± A radiant twinkle filled Yun Xiao''s eyes, reminiscent of a starry gxy, as he recalled the carefree and forthrightdy, a smile gently animating his features.

    ¡°Senior Sister Zhao, go on and be a Sword Immortal who ventures the mortal realm to y demons! The Sea of Swords, and the Sect Master... I shall look after them all!¡±

    <i>VROOM! </i>A lone azure silhouette in the night sky, he soared across the celestial vault of Azure Spirit, the embodiment of both solitude and effortless elegance. A little ck beast perched on his shoulder, itsrge mouth dangling a scarlet tongue, swinging in the mid-air, emitted an odd sound.

    "Ugh!" Its deep blue eyes trembled and, clutching its mouth, it unleashed a torrent within its belly. Again, it regurgitated arge pile of Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    ¡°I''ve been waiting half an eternity for you!¡± Yun Xiao said,ughing, as he stretched out a hand to catch them. Thereafter, he descended on his sword,nding in the courtyard of Zhao Xuanran''s quaint Little Cloud Residence.

    Without Zhao Xuanran, this little abode felt vast and empty. The stone table, pond fish, and osmanthus tree still remained!

    The small ck beast, its face etched with urgency, squatted down, puking ceaselessly onto the ground, amassing a small mountain of Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    ¡°You had this much left?¡± Yun Xiao eximed, his eyes sparkling with astonishment.

    Yun Xiao had obtained 2,000,000 Spirit Stones from the spoils of the Northern Wastnds expedition. He had given Zhao Xuanran 1,500,000 Spirit Stones to repay the sect, keeping 500,000 for himself. On the return journey to the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Yun Xiao fed all the stones to Red Moon.

    ¡°Red Moon hasn¡¯t even finished digesting the 1,000,000 Spirit Stones from the treasure vaultst time! Darn it, I¡¯m dead beat,¡± Blue Star, supporting its waist, wore an expression of utter exhaustion.

    ¡°What are you tired for? It''s the baby doing all the digesting!¡± Red Moon protested loudly.

    ¡°Do I not exert energy when I vomit? Push me, and I''ll switch to defecation. I can ensure it¡¯ll be quite the long-distance affair!¡± Blue Star cursed and ranted.

    Yun Xiao scooped up the Heavenly Dao Sariras, cing them on the stone table.

    ¡°Uh.¡± Suddenly recalling the all-night battle he and Zhao Xuanran had on this table, consuming these pills here didn¡¯t seem quite right!

    ¡°We can try condensing an Origin Core tonight!¡± Yun Xiao said to the little ck beast.

    ¡°It¡¯s worth a shot!¡± Blue Star replied.

    In the battle of the Northern Wastnds, even the folks of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect were unaware of Yun Xiao¡¯s realm! Since he was attempting to condense an Origin Core now, preparing to enter the Origin Core Realm... it indicated that he was currently in the Establishment Divine Sea Realm!

    Yun Xiao was at the same cultivation level as Zhao Xuanran, possessing five Divine Seas!

    During the duel with Ye Tiance, Yun Xiao was still in the Late Divine Sea Realm. Within those three days, the million Spirit Stones from the treasure vault allowed him to break through two stages. Using two Dragon Springs, he produced two more Divine Seas, advancing to the Establishment Divine Sea Realm. As a result, he could defeat both Elder Fan and Holy Son Chu, who were at the Mid Origin Core Realm.

    Holy Son Chu, with his higher Sword Soul talent, was undoubtedly slightly stronger than Elder Fan.

    ¡°Any realm, once it has reached the Establishment stage, the very peak stage, signifies that it¡¯s possible to assail the next major realm in the immortal Dao!¡±

    The Establishment Stage was a small transformation!

    Breaking through a major realm was the major transformation!

    "Origin Core Realm!¡± The magic power of the five Divine Seas almostpletely filled Yun Xiao''s Dantian, leaving no room for further generation of magic power. To break through, he needed topress the power of the Divine Seas into an Origin Core

    "Demons and monsters form cores in much the same way, though they use demonic power to create a Demon Core!" Yun Xiao mused.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The little ck beast transformed into an ancient bronze coffin, standing amid the courtyard of the Little Cloud Residence. The coffin was old and showed signs of countless epochs, with many mottled marks adorning it.

    Without a word, Yun Xiao, holding the Heavenly Dao Sariras, entered the bronze coffin!

    Inside, the darkness enveloped him, and nine coffins within the coffin quietlyy to one side. One, engraved with the words ''Prison Warden'', exuded a heavy malignant aurately, subtly influencing Yun Xiao¡¯s mentality during his cultivation.

    "The Heaven Burial Primordial Coffin and the Divine Pir merged into my Sword Soul! What will the Prison Warden Primordial Coffinbine with, and what will it be? Will it be a Sword Soul, or something else? Will it definitely serve me?" Yun Xiao yearned to know, as after all, the power of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul was formidable, fundamental to his currentbat capability.

    "Daydreaming, you little trash. You still haven¡¯t birthed a Origin Core, thoroughly shaming the Creator Immortal!" Blue Star scoffed.

    Upon its words, the cultivation method for the Origin Core Realm swiftly appeared within the Primordial Void Technique. Character after character seemed to be born from chaos, and the coffin lid, at this moment, appeared to be the origin of the world, the initial of life¡¯s power.

    "Compress the Primordial Void Sea into a Primordial Void Core! The core bes a singrity, birthing worlds and all beings!" Yun Xiao silently recited, harnessing the power of the five Divine Seas with the Primordial Void Technique. "This process is a bit like making dumplings. First, roll up the t sea, wrap a dumpling with fiveyers of dough, wait for the dumpling to take shape, then continuouslypress it, continuously infusing the power of the Heavenly Dao Sariras, prompting the magic power to condense into an Origin Core!"

    <i>HUM! </i>Let the dumpling-making begin!

    Using the Primordial Void Technique, Yun Xiao rolled up the five Divine Seas, wrapping them up in the center of his Dantian, and pressed them into a spherical ¡®dough¡¯ of magic power. This dough quivered thunderously, its ocean-like magic power conjuring storms upon it!

    Piece by piece, the Heavenly Dao Sariras transformed into a magic power spring, crashing into the Dantian like a waterfall, infusing into the magic power sphere, continuing topress it, pushing it to its limits!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Yun Xiao''s body kicked up a whirlwind of magic power, forming a storm within the bronze coffin, his white robe and long hair dancing wildly, yet the ninne Primordial Coffins remained unswervingly still.

    "Compress!" Yun Xiao urged, deploying the Primordial Void Technique.

    Just as the massive sphere of magic power nearly burst his Dantian, he began to suppress it, madly condensing. The five Divine Seas resisted like a ferocious, unyielding beast.

    "Primordial Void Core, form!" Despite the resistance, Yun Xiao encountered no difficulty. With ease, he found the knack, steadily squeezing the five Divine Seas smaller and smaller like a seasoned craftsman, until finallypressing it into a genuine, solid core!

    An Origin Core norger than a grain of rice. Yet it contained magical power far surpassing that of the five Divine Seas!

    "The breakthrough of a major realm essentially raises a cultivator¡¯s upper limit!¡± Yun Xiao adjusted his power, stabilizing the Primordial Void Core.

    ¡°Early Origin Core Realm! Oneyer Origin Core!¡± Inside Yun Xiao''s Dantian, a pure white core hovered, akin to a singrity born from chaos.

    "The Origin Core Realm also consists of five stages. To enter the Mid Origin Core Realm, I have to cultivate five Divine Seas again! However, the Divine Seas won''t form a new Origin Core. Instead, they''ll bepressed into the original Origin Core, allowing it to continue to grow bigger!"

    It was evident that, the further one advanced on the path of Immortal cultivation, the greater the amount of magic power required.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s Origin Core epassed everything, not only containing the myriad Dao but also elements such as wind, fire, water, earth, thunder, wood, and more. It possessed all the properties of heaven and earth!

    "That¡¯s why whatever attribute of daoist spells and swordsmanship I learn, I can perfectly unleash its power."

    Azure Lightning Crane, Azure Dragon Squall! Thunder, storm, all were easily within his control!

    ¡°I really am a perfect genius, without a single weakness!¡± Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help but sigh. Simply through possession, he had gained the Creator Immortal''s reincarnated body, and it was just too cool.

    ¡°Not a single damn weakness? You struggled just to condense this crappy Origin Core in your Dantian! Hurry up and seize that Nine Dragons Dantian, or I''m afraid your Dantian won''t withstand the Primordial Void and will directly burst!¡± Blue Star retorted, eyes rolling back.

    Yun Xiao was struck speechless once more. He had no way to retort. Every time he felt his breakthrough speed was already astounding, Blue Star would give him a sucker punch, making him feel genuinely trashy.

    "Off to the Sea of Swords!" Yun Xiao stood up, a cold light shing in his eyes. "After ten days of seclusion in the Forbidden Tower, with his Nine Dragons Dantian, I wonder what realm Ye Guying will break through in one go?"

    Once tonight passed, there were four more days until Ye Guying would emerge from seclusion.

    "Jiang Yue is dead. Your turn is next!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Before his departure, Yun Xiao made onest visit to the Spirit Pavilion''s Grand Hall.

    "Master." Yun Xiao stood inside the central chamber, eyes solemn. Before himy a middle-aged man in an azure robe, tranquilly reposing, his face peaceful. His hands folded across his abdomen, his skin pallid, breath feeble.

    "Aunt Yu, if I speak, can he hear me?" Yun Xiao turned to ask a blue-robed woman beside him.

    "He can," Shangguan Yu spoke softly, "Since you returned from the Northern Wastnds, bringing back the souls of the Sword Pavilion Seven, hisplexion has improved significantly, and it seems a smile has formed on his face."

    She had been keeping vigil here for three days.

    "Yun Xiao, with you and Lil Ran around, his life''s grand vengeance has been fulfilled. Now that the Azure Spirit Sword Sect is back on the right path, he will be content and certainly will hang on," Shanguan Yu said.

    "Good!" Yun Xiao''s eyes held unwavering resolve. "Aunt Yu, the people of the Forbidden Tower will resort to any means. I beg you to take him away with you!"

    "Alright! I''ll carry him to the thousand mortal nations and travel through the mortal world. If we encounter demons, we can still assist Lil Ran." Shangguan Yu gently smiled, clearly finding the impending journey to be a pleasant prospect.

    However, her gaze dimmed quickly, and a note of sorrow entered her voice. "In this way, should he ultimately depart this mortal coil, he could rest in peace if he passes away in the mundane world that he has protected."

    "Aunt Yu!" Yun Xiao''s eyes warmed, "Saying this... it¡¯s like you don¡¯t trust me."

    "I apologize." A semnce of guilt showed Shangguan Yu. She looked at Yun Xiao, conviction finally shining through her eyes again. "It''s my mistake! Yun Xiao, I believe in you! You are the peerless hero bestowed upon the mortal world by the heavens above, a specialist in exterminating evil and crooked ways! With you here, no one is afraid!"

    Yun Xiao offered a gentle smile. He knew he was not some peerless hero, nor did he wish to be a moral guardian. He was just a monarch of a mortal nation who sought to retaliate when wronged, and who also desired to restore the Creator Immortal.

    "Aunt Yu, have the Azure Spirit Hall and the Bluedrop g been dealt with?" Yun Xiao finally asked.

    "Yes, they are forever burning in a deste ce where no one can save them," Shangguan Yu, feeling a bit of a headacheing on at the memory, asked, "Yun Xiao, the Azure Spirit Cauldron is after all the will of the Azure Spirit. When can it be ced back in front of the Grand Hall in a fair and square manner? When can those Sword Cultivators who went to exterminate demons return to Azure Spirit to rest their feet?"

    With fierce determination, Yun Xiao¡¯s Sovereign Sword surged into the sky, his eyes aze. "When I¡¯ve destroyed the Forbidden Tower!" With that deration, he vanished into the night sky of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, speeding toward the direction of the Sea of Swords!

    A sword that dominated the heavens! Who could stand in its way?

 Chapter 079 - Just Kill Him!

    <h4>Chapter 079 - Just Kill Him!</h4>

    In the floating ind of the Sea of Swords loomed the sword-shaped tower of Sword Heaven. Within the tower stood a modest thatched cottage, a stark contrast to the opulent building it was nestled inside.

    A woman, d in a gentle swirl of dark silk, lingered before the thatched cottage.

    "Brother Feng," she nced upwards, "I''ve told you all there is to know about the young man, Yun Xiao. What are your thoughts, hm?"

    A gruff, hoarse voice echoed from within the dwelling, "Let''s see the results of the Sword Soul test first, shall we?"

    A subtle sparkle flickered in Ning Yan¡¯s eyes, her nod obedient, as she contemted to herself. No matter the circumstances, after Yun Xiao''s falling out with Holy Son Chu, her Brother Feng¡¯s willingness to test his Sword Soul was, in its own way, an approval.

    Softly, sweetly, she replied, "I''ll get everything in ce then, Brother Feng."

    "Make it quick I don¡¯t want Xiao Yu getting the wrong idea," the headache palpable in the man''s strained voice.

    With a minor pout, she twisted elegantly on her heel and departed, her silhouette an undting shadow against the stark backdrop. Unexpectedly, her exit from the courtyard became a confrontation; two figures emerged, approaching her.

    One was a strikingdy in a resplendent red gown, hair finely twisted upwards, her presence a blend of masculine fortitude and feminine elegance, her eyes gleaming sharply beneath furrowed brows. Beside her, a youthful maiden named Lin Lin, adorned in a sunny yellow skirt, emerged from the Forbidden Tower, her hand tenderly enveloped by the older woman.

    Upon seeing Ning Yan, a cold smirk briefly danced across Lin Lin¡¯s visage, a subtle scorn in her youthful eyes.

    Ning Yan greeted hesitantly, "Sister Xiao."

    "You¡¯re seeking him again? Forgotten how ourst meeting went, have you?" The older woman''s voice was a forceful gust, her regality emanating a silent, yet suffocating aura, causing the atmosphere to tense perceptibly.

    Ning Yan, with a flutter of her eyshes and a yful roll of her eyes, countered, ¡°When urgent matters regarding Sword Heaven must reach the Sword Lord, do I truly require approval from his wife¡ªnotably one emerging from the Forbidden Tower?¡±

    A cynicalugh escaped the older woman, challenging Ning Yan further. ¡°Well then, do share. What¡¯s so pressing? If your words are unconvincing, I¡¯ll presume you''re simply back to shamelessly chase a married man.¡±

    Ning Yan, poised with crossed arms and a veil of serene resolve, addressed the woman before her, ¡°I¡¯ve found a Sword Soul prodigy and introduced him to Brother Feng... the Sword Lord.¡±

    The woman, swathed in ptial attire, perked an eyebrow, curiosity dancing in her eyes, "Oh? How promising is he?"

    Lin Lin, standing adjacent, released a quiet, sardonicugh, her eyes reflecting concealed knowledge, undoubtedly, the secrets whispered by Holy Son Chu.

    Ning Yan lifted her chin, her cold eyes locking with the woman¡¯s, ¡°Untested. But he shattered a Rank Two Sword Stone. I predict him at the grade. Perhaps, not falling short of your son, Lin Chen.¡±

    The woman''s gentleugh, rich with subtle condescension, floated between them,  grade? Quite impressive. From whence does this talent hail?¡±

    "Umm..." Ning Yan hesitated, her expression wary.

    Unwilling to relent, the woman pressed, her voice crisp and frosty, ¡°No words? Is he from some sinister path? Let me remind you, Ning Yan, regardless of talent, those with nefarious ambitions won¡¯t set foot in Sword Heaven!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect! His beginnings may be humble, but his path is righteous,¡± Ning Yan bit back through clenched teeth.

    ¡°Azure Spirit?¡± The woman¡¯sughter was a punctuated, mocking chortle. She leveled a pointed stare at Ning Yan, ¡°Under the tutge of Zhao Jianxing, perhaps? The man who bartered your chastity for a jug of wine? To whom you gave a daughter?¡±

    Ning Yan''s eyes smoldered with restrained fury, her voice a withheld tempest.

    The woman didn¡¯t flinch,unching another barbed attack, ¡°A Sword Soul prodigy from the modest Azure Spirit? Are you so eager to present your gifts to him that your own dignity is forgotten?¡±

    ¡°The boy will be here soon. You¡¯re wee to observe at the Jade Sun Tower!¡± At that moment, Ning Yan harbored a fervent wish that Yun Xiao would thoroughly dismantle the woman¡¯s smug certainty. Without another word, she bypassed the two, an aura of icy defiance in her wake.

    Lin Lin sneered, discarding her restraint, ¡°One who cannot withstand a single strike from my Brother Chu hardly deserves the title of prodigy. Howughable.¡±

    ¡°Brazen woman! Bringing someone to test their Sword Soul? She¡¯s deluded,¡± The woman remarked with icy disdain.

    Lin Lin¡¯s voice quivered with urgency, ¡°Mother! Let him be tested. If he doesn¡¯te, how will I avenge Brother Chu? My brother and the others have already agreed to assist me!¡±

    With a nod, the woman in regal pce attire affirmed, "Of course, we''ll test him." Her eyes, cold and contemptuous, tracked Ning Yan''s retreat. ¡°And ideally, this treacherous woman will hoist herself by her own petard, and skedaddle out of Sword Heaven.¡±

    ¡°Her so-called genius? I reckon Brother Chu nearly shattered his Sword Soul by now. grade? It¡¯sughable!¡± Lin Lin attempted to suppress her mirth with little sess.

    ¡°Alright, I''m going to find your father. You, go to the Jade Sun Tower first,¡± the noblewoman directed, her voice trailing slightly with faint, veiled annoyance.

    Lin Lin furrowed her brow slightly, a flicker of unease in her eyes. ¡°Mom, Dad wouldn¡¯t side with that... woman, would he?¡±

    Ning Yan was no delicate blossom, and the pce-attired woman conveyed as much with a derisive snort. ¡°He didn¡¯t want her when they were young and vibrant. Why on earth would he want her now?¡±

    Lin Lin''s expression lightened, her words dipped in youthful admiration. ¡°True! Dad always listens to you, Mom. You two are the epitome of marital bliss!¡±

    ¡°If that old coot even dares to converse with Ning Yan, I¡¯ll ensure he¡¯s set straight.¡± With finality in her words, thedy stepped into the thatched hut, leaving an unspoken threat hanging in the air.

    yfully, Lin Lin stuck her tongue out to the empty space her mother had upied before quickly darting away. Not long after, a cacophony of thatches tumbling from the hut¡¯s roof and a chorus of merciful pleas created a peculiar symphony.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Jade Sun Tower.

    When Ning Yan, her heart a fluttering bird within her chest, reached the top of the tower, she paused, taking in the bustling scene before her. ¡°Such a gathering...¡±

    Madame Xiao, swathed in her distinguished pce attire, sat at a prime position, leisurely sipping tea and exchanging light-hearted banters with those around her. Lin Lin, her charming daughter, was snuggled cozily by her side, a picture of petite loveliness.

    A coterie of young men took their ces quietly on the other side. Their silence was profound and sharp, each exuding an aura as stoic and formidable as unsheathed swords. Among them was the youth with the sword on his back, Lin Chen, his posture disciplined, eyes fixated beneath the tower.

    Jade Sun Tower, prominently located at the entrance to Sword Heaven, overlooked an open square. There, three Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stones were disyed, a public arena where each individual entering or exiting Sword Heaven could test their Sword Soul at will.

    A crowd of over a hundred influential figures converged, each carrying a notable reputation that weighed upon the atmosphere. Amongst them were Madame Xiao, several illustrious <i>Sword Princelings</i> numerous Great Sword Venerablesparable with Ning Yan, and other elder dignitaries of Sword Heaven. Their presence, an undeniable force within the realm.

    Ning Yan pondered, her eyes frosting slightly, "I only spoke to Brother Feng about the Sword Soul test. How did word spread to gather such a crowd?" Her gaze hardened. "It must be Xiao Yu''s doing, that devious woman.¡±

    "Ning Yan''s arrived!"

    Faces adorned with cordial smiles greeted her.

    "Sister Ning,e, sit here," Madame Xiao¡¯s face radiated a warmth, a smile spanning from cheek to cheek, gesturing towards a seat beside her.

    Though internally brewing a storm of curses against the woman, Ning Yan, on the outside, wove a facade of deep sisterly affection. She chatted,ughed, and seated herself, maintaining appearances amongst the gathered.

    ¡°You know, bringing such a rare talent to light and not telling us earlier!¡±

    ¡°If this old fellow hadn¡¯t conveniently returned, wouldn¡¯t I have missed all this excitement?¡±

    The chatter among the Great Sword Venerables was hearty and vibrant.

    Madame Xiao began, "You¡¯re certain thed has at least a grade Sword Soul? That''s monumental!"

    Ning Yan offered a slight, nonchnt shrug. "Certainly not certain. We¡¯ll just have to let the test results speak for themselves, won¡¯t we?"

    ¡°Oh, such humility!¡±

    ¡°With your keen eye, today you will surely create a monumental achievement for Sword Heaven!¡±

    Adtions fluttered through the crowd.

    However, the harmonious atmosphere was shed by an untimely and brash young voice.

    ¡°Great Sword Venerable Ning is parading a <i>genius</i> who got thrashed by Holy Son Chu of the Forbidden Tower, and we''re calling this a monumental achievement?¡±

    All eyes swung towards the speaker. Lin Lin, a youth in a cheeky miniskirt.

    Laughter, hearty and free, spilled into the gathering, with even Lin Chen, the Sword Princeling, breaking from his cool expression as he stiffled a chuckle.

    "Erm..." The elders shared a nce, a subtle exchange amidst a blossoming awkwardness.

    They had already pricked their ears to the younger generation¡¯s gossip, absorbing the scandalous tales of Yun Xiao''s <ibat history</i>. However, wisdom and courtesy dictated a silent understanding rather than voicing such topics, especially when it might ce Ning Yan, the Great Sword Venerable, in a difiting light.

    Amidst the ruckus from Sword Heaven''s younger crowd, Ning Yan''s visage twisted curiously.

    "Holy Son Chu?" Her voice barely masked her bewilderment. She hadn¡¯t misheard, had she? Who was the one who got thrashed?

    Understanding dawned on Ning Yan as she recalled Lin Lin''s romantic link with Holy Son Chu, fostered by the ever-matching hands of her mother. A crispugh escaped her, too, edging into the room with a slightly mocking tone.

    "Holy Son Chu, that little punk... How shameless can you get?" Ning Yan thought cooly to herself. "He''s dug himself into a hole with this lie. If he doesn''t kill Yun Xiao, there''ll be no stopping the truth froming out." She shifted swiftly, addressing the crowd with a polished, diplomatic air. "Friends, my acquaintance with the young man is merely a fleeting one; recognizing a semnce of talent, I offered him a chance. His future? That remains firmly in his own hands!"

    Mildughter and awkward smiles traipsed through the onlookers.

    "Realizing your nose is dripping when it¡¯s already reached your mouth, it¡¯s a bitte to wipe, isn¡¯t it? Let her face the music!" Lin Lin mischievously pulled a face at her mother, barely masking her schadenfreude.

    "Youngdies should mind their words to be found charming," Madame Xiao chided gently.

    "Yes, Mother." Lin Lin, detecting an undercurrent of awkwardness, stealthily whispered into her mother''s ear, "Theoretically speaking,bat skill and Sword Soul talent aren¡¯t inherently linked, so Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul might still be of a notable level, right?"

    "Mhm," Madame Xiao nodded faintly, "Given the decayed state of the Rank Two Sword Stone, having it shattered suggests a reasonable probability of a Moon grade, yes."

    Lin Lin, with eyebrows raised slightly in a mischief-bred curiosity, tossed a casual question into the otherwise cid room. "If he ranks at the Moon grade, what then?"

    Madame Xiao¡¯sughter, sharp and cold, sliced through the apparent camaraderie between mother and daughter. "Sword Heaven teems with Moon grade Sword Souls. No sense tangling with Holy Son Chu over one."

    "I¡¯ll send him straight to Brother Chu after the Sword Soul test!" Lin Lin''s voice rippled with a youthful, devil-may-care excitement.

    "Indeed, I''ll permit it," Madame Xiao responded, her voice the very embodiment of sinct authority.

    Lin Lin, allowing audacity to spark another query, asked, "And, should he be of the grade, would Sword Heaven shield him?"

    In a moment barren of hesitation, Madam Xiao¡¯s words lunged forward, predatory and stark. "Shield him? Not a chance. A grade menace would be extinguished immediately. No use allowing such a pestilence to strain the harmony between Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower."

    Lin Lin, still for a breath, faced a sudden and unwee understanding. Her mother, a person bred from the shadows of the Forbidden Tower, harbored ambitions for her to wed Holy Son Chu. Not a mote of conflict could be permitted between the two powerhouses, lest her mother¡¯s disdain be wrathfully known.

    "So," Lin Lin''s thoughts whispered, a secret, cruel delight burgeoning within her, "whatever the test unveils, this pitiable creature¡¯s destiny is sealed... in death."

    A promation severed her dark musing: "Yun Xiao has arrived!"

    "Has he?" Ning Yan¡¯s heart flitted erratically like a caged bird against its prison.

    Swiftly, a palpable gravity descended upon the Jade Sun Tower. The youthful chatter of Sword Heaven¡¯s juniors wilted, reced by a frosty, expectant gaze downward.

    Within Madame Xiao''s eyes, a lethal gleam flickered, her lips curving into a scarcely perceptible, malevolent grin. "Have him brought to the Jade Sun Tower," she dered, her voice a subtle, terrifying promise of forting tempests.

 Chapter 080 - Sword Heavens Young Prince!

    <h4>Chapter 080 - Sword Heaven''s Young Prince!</h4>

    Lin Lin stood under the unyielding gaze of the Sword Heaven''s entrance, a disdainful smirk tugged at the corners of her mouth. Her eyes, sharp and inquisitive, never faltered from their focused watch. She smirked to herself, "Surely, those Sword Cultivators from Azure Spirit, running around baking in the sun all day hunting demons, must look like country bumpkins."

    In a moment, a youth, sheathed in flowing white robes, eased into the collective sight of all present. It wasn¡¯t merely an entrance; it was the subtle grace of an Immortal drifting above earthly dust. His brows, arched and solid like unsheathed swords, crowned eyes that twinkled with the rity of celestial bodies. Elegance dripped from his slender fingers and cascaded down his long, waterfall-like hair. He seemed less born of a human womb and more crafted by artisan gods from the purest jade.

    "Good heavens!" Lin Lin, entrapped in unexpected awe, whispered to herself. "Who knew somebody so beautiful could exist in this world...?"

    Madame Xiao, ady whoseugh often flirted with scorn, had been resting in her regr, chilled demeanor. But upon witnessing the youth, something quivered in the icyndscapes of her heart, a warm flicker reminiscent of her own vibrant youth of eighteen summers. "Perhaps," she conceded internally, "there''s a reason for Ning Yan¡¯s relentless affection. This brat''s beauty is something else... And he fits just my tastes too!"

    Criticism could, with enough creativity, shroud anything in darkness. Yet, his appearance, resplendent and faultless, was a beacon that defied smearing. The once slightly mocking air, with the youth¡¯s entrancing entrance, found itself subdued, cing even Lin Lin¡¯s yful tongue in a cage of speechless reverence.

    She had forever held that Brother Chu possessed a handsome face. But now, with such a divineparison, he seemed regrettably, simply mortal.

    "Disciple Yun Xiao, I stand before Sword Heaven to test my Sword Soul!" The youth¡¯s voice danced through the air, neither trembling in humility nor crackling with arrogance.

    With determined, swift steps, he glided beneath the Jade Sun Tower. Before him, like silent sentinels of destiny, stood the three Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stones.

    "Proceed," Madame Xiao, her armzily aloft, gestured with a delicate sway of her hand.

    Mother and daughter, their voices a secretive murmur, exchanged words like covert conspirators. "Mom, he is undeniably handsome," Lin Lin¡¯s voice was barely a breath.

    "In the path of cultivation, Lin Lin, aesthetics are the least consequential, especially for men," Madame Xiao¡¯s voice was a cool breeze. "Unless he intends to mize his visage, to whom does it matter?" She had navigated through the seas of infatuations long ago.

    "Indeed! It is the essence within that is pivotal," Lin Lin mused softly, Brother Chu¡¯s heroic visage silently cavorting through her thoughts.

    Below the Jade Sun Tower, Ning Yan, her presence ever a subtle storm, had already alighted, positioning herself before one of the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stones.

    "Yun Xiao,e," her hand extended, a gentle summoning amidst the tension.

    Upon his entrance into Sword Heaven, Yun Xiao felt a peculiar shift in the atmosphere. The gazes from atop the Jade Sun Tower showered upon him with a frigid indifference, as if Immortals, perched upon celestial clouds, were scrutinizing him, awaiting his follies. Madame Xiao, Lin Chen, Lin Lin, and the other Great Sword Venerables...

    They possessed formidable skills, that was clear. But why did animosityce their eyes when they gazed upon him? Yun Xiao pondered this as he quietly stepped beside Ning Yan.

    "It has already be the whispered scandal of Sword Heaven that you shed with Holy Son Chu yesterday and found yourself bested by a single stroke!" Ning Yan¡¯s voice was a yful, yet slightly biting, melody.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao blinked, "Now, isn¡¯t that unabashedly bold?"

    "Three men can make a tiger, Yun Xiao. Once the rumors cascade from enough lips, they solidify into epted truth, rendering your protests futile." Ning Yan¡¯s eyebrow arched, a yful dare residing in her eyes. "Show them what you¡¯re made of! Aim for the stars, perhaps, the grade!"

    "And what if I end up at the Moon grade?" Yun Xiao¡¯s voice was a gentle stream, untroubled and soft.

    Ning Yan¡¯s furrowed brow, like the folding of delicate silk, provided him with a silent, yet eloquently unspoken answer. Moon grade? Then, Yun Xiao had better make himself scarce and scram! What else would be the result?

    "This Sword Heaven is slightly disheartening," Yun Xiao¡¯s thoughts quietly brooded. "I thought Sword Venerable Ning was sufficiently distasteful, yet it seems the eyes from atop this Jade Sun Tower contain not a mote of benevolence." His spirit darkened ever so slightly.

    Was he really so easily bested by a mere stroke from Holy Son Chu? A soft chuckle punctuated the air.

    "Yun Xiao, reveal your Sword Soul, and all shall be clear!" Ning Yan dered, sidestepping gracefully, her eyes, bright and intense, lingered on the young man¡¯s slender fingers.

    What unfolded next, the color disclosed by the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, would shape her ensuing actions¡ªto either draw nearer to Yun Xiao or to retract herself entirely.

    Yellow signified the Moon grade. Green indicated the grade. To Ning Yan, these were worlds apart; one terrestrial, the other celestial.

    <i>SWOOSH SWOOSH! </i>Numerous piercing gazes from atop the Jade Sun Tower converged on Yun Xiao, shrouded in an icy disdain.

    "Heh," a light, confident chuckle slipped from Yun Xiao. His confidence, braided with the assurance of assets in hand, bloomed into a boundless, fearless aura. The drifting rumors? A mere whisper against the anthem of his determined path.

    Extending a hand, an azure Sword Soul sprouted within his palm, the dual Sword Rings upon it silently professing at least a Moon grade status.

    "This Sword Soul, it''s somewhat mediocre in form," the Great Sword Venerables and Sword Heaven elders atop the Jade Sun Tower murmured, their words rippling through hushed, secretive conversations.

    "Go!" With a touch of restrained anxiety whispering through her voice, Ning Yan was tethered beside Yun Xiao.

    A single nce from Yun Xiao towards her, and he stepped forward, gently cradling the Sword Soul within his grasp.

    "The Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone?" This time, not a single soul could intercede. His sword heart, upright and unyielding, mirrored his every action. A straightforward thrust, and the Sword Soul plunged into the sword cavity.

    <i>HUM! </i>Instantaneously, the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone devoured the surrounding celestial energies, enveloping the Sword Soul, like four divine beasts encircling a revered entity.

    Many eyes from atop the Jade Sun Tower congealed into an anticipative stare, awaiting a spectacle at Ning Yan''s expense.

    "Here ites!" Yun Xiao¡¯s hand tensed. As celestial energies seeped into his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, endeavoring to coax its inner power out and stimte a color change in the Sword Inheritance Stone, Yun Xiao¡¯s brow lifted subtly.

    "Again, really?" Scarcely had his words fallen when the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, akin to a beast provoked, retaliated. A surge of azure mist erupted, voraciously devouring the celestial energy and violently thrashing back into the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone.

    <i>CRACK CRACK CRACK! </i>In a blink, the Stone shrieked four deste cries, as myriad cracks,den with a deadly force, cataclysmically cascaded across it.

    Swiftly, Yun Xiao retracted the Sword Soul and withdrew. Beside him, Ning Yan remained, motionless, stunned into a silent immobility.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone detonated, not into fragments, but into a thorough disintegration, transforming into a dust, a smoke, permeating the Jade Sun Tower and infiltrating the entirety of Sword Heaven.

    "It looks like wherever I wander in this lifetime, explosions are destined to follow!" Yun Xiao¡¯s voice simmered with a weary jest.

    Moon grade, yellow? grade, green? Apologies, but before his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, neither color was urate, surrendering their vibrancy, and only an explosion held dominion.

    That said, this scene was hardly out of Yun Xiao¡¯s expectations.

    "The Sea of Swords is revered as mightier than the Azure Spirit,¡± he mused with a weighted pause, casting a thoughtful gaze upon the spectators, ¡°In its entire history, it''s said the highest record Sword Soul was Upper grade. In over a thousand years, no Sword Cultivator has ever broken this record. But now...."

    He offered a lingering look toward Ning Yan, who was, unfortunately, nketed by an ash-like residue, her beauty veiled by a curious coat of gray.

    "No, this can''t be right!" Ning Yan, attempting to maintain a modicum ofposure, hastily wiped at her face, her words tumbling out in a flurry, ¡°The Sword Inheritance Stone must be malfunctioning!¡± Her eyes, a tempest of emotions, met Yun Xiao¡¯s, yet for a moment words abandoned her.

    Atop the esteemed Jade Sun Tower, gasps and murmurings rippled through the assembly.

    Yun Xiao, peering upward, witnessed over a hundred souls deserting their seats, their forms rigid against the railings, faces a tableau of horror as they stared into the ashen void. Twitching facial muscles betrayed their flounderingposure.

    ¡°What... what is this?¡± Lin Lin¡¯s voice, fragile as spun ss, quivered as she clutched Madame Xiao¡¯s arm.

    ¡°It means nothing!¡± Madame Xiao¡¯s voice cut through the tension, pointedly addressing Yun Xiao, ¡°Do it again!¡±

    ¡°Again?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s internal sneer never reached his visage as his eyes scanned the two remaining Rank Sword Inheritance Stones. They shifted between the incredulous Sword Heaven attendees and Ning Yan, cloaked in her powdery attire. ¡°Are you certain?¡±

    ¡°Do it!¡± Ning Yan¡¯s voice, steadier than before, held a trace of concealed ecstasy. Her perception of Yun Xiao transformed subtly, him bing a beacon of youth, talent, and wless perfection in her eyes.

    ¡°Then let¡¯s proceed,¡± Yun Xiao, ever pragmatic, approached the next Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone, plunging the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into its depths.

    <i>BOOM! </i>A second eruption! The dust within the Jade Sun Tower intensified, the resultant st resonating through the very foundations of Sword Heaven and its towering structures.

    More denizens of Sword Heaven roused, and even beyond its streets, the sonic tumult from this sanctuary of swordsmanship echoed.

    In short, it was an uproar!

    ¡°Shall we proceed with further testing?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s voice, casual yet imposing, addressed the silenced assembly in the Jade Sun Tower, his hands nonchntly folded behind his back.

    An all-epassing stillness cradled the scene.

    Madame Xiao¡¯s eyes, wide as copper bells, echoed a silent roar within her mind. Her grasp deformed the once-immacte copper railing. "A Star grade Sword Soul!"

    Her adjacent counterparts, the Great Sword Venerables, and Sword Heaven elders, voices marinating in astonishment, harmonized in a collective outcry.

    ¡°To shatter the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stone is to attain the Star grade?¡± Lin Lin¡¯s world darkened at the edges, her gaze fixated on the white-robed youth, her cheeks heating up.

    "Meteor, Comet, Moon,... Star!¡± The sword-bearing youth, Lin Chen, was visibly shaken, his pupils contracting. What did this embody? Every gaze, as if tethered by a silentmand, converged on Madame Xiao.

    ¡°We need no further tests!¡± Teeth clenched and face an ashen specter, Madame Xiao dered.

    With a touch both tender and solemn, the Rank Four Sword Inheritance Stones, scarce in number and exorbitant in cost, diminished by two under the fledgling light of day. Yun Xiao, with an unassumingly neutral expression, had managed to obliterate a fortune equivalent to two earthly sects before the morning dew could kiss the ground of Sword Heaven.

    Just three of those precious stones had stood there, sentinels with centuries of lore whispering through their forms, having gauged the Sword Souls of enumerable hopefuls and silently apuded the spiraling ascents of generational talents. And now, the tangible emblems of Sword Heaven¡¯s symbolic strength were reduced by two-thirds.

    Madame Xiao, her eyes flickering an amalgam of anger and apprehension, declined to gamble thest remaining treasure.

    No further tests meant the finality of a judgment upon Yun Xiao¡¯s sword soul.

    ¡°Yun Xiao!¡± The voice of a woman, aze with a kind of fric joy, emanated from behind him.

    Yun Xiao turned, eyes meeting with Ning Yan''s, which were ignited with potent excitement, her gaze searing into his being.

    ¡°You''ve carved history into the Sea of Swords,¡± she announced with a voice thick with pride, cutting through the tense air. ¡°You are the first-ever wielder of a Star grade Sword Soul. You have made me, your Aunt Ning, so damn proud!¡±

    <i>Aunt Ning? </i>Yun Xiao¡¯s brows knitted slightly, a delicate confusion casting shadows across his features. Had familiarity blossomed so fervently between them? ¡°If you weren¡¯t Senior Sister Zhao¡¯s mother, a p might be making its way across your face about now,¡± he thought quietly to himself.

    Unable to restrain herself, Ning Yan lunged forward, sping Yun Xiao¡¯s arms tightly. ¡°From this moment, I am your shield, your safeguard on the path to glory, until your power overshadows mine!¡±

    Silence was all Yun Xiao offered in return. It¡¯s curious, he mused silently, how remarkably practical women could be. Back amidst the icy scorn of the Northern Wastnds, she had paraded indifference and mockery before him. Now, post Sword Soul examination, a transformation into warm esteem was starkly apparent.

    Observers might well be duped into perceiving a deep, unspoken bond between them.

    "Mother, this is preposterous! We cannot allow him entry into our Sword Heaven..." Lin Lin, witnessing the spectacle, blurted with barely concealed anxiety.

    Madame Xiao cast a nce below, spying the Great Sword Venerables and Sword Heaven elders, their expressions now painted with fierce eagerness and festivity, preparing to descend to heap their congrattions upon Ning Yan.

    ¡°That vile bitch has discovered a gem and now bathes in newfound glory,¡± Madame Xiao fumed internally.

    A Star grade Sword Soul! It rendered her dumbstruck! Such a sword, it had skewered the very pinnacle of what was thought possible in the Sea of Swords!

    Not so long ago, Ye Guying, a supernaturally gifted talent emerging from the Forbidden Tower, had only reached the Mid grade even after his Sword Soul evolved!

    Now, having unearthed such a prodigy, would Ning Yan not unabashedly sing her own praises to Brother Feng at every waking moment? Madame Xiao¡¯s heart raced, panic skirting its edges.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, approach. I grant you the disciple token of Sword Heaven,¡± Madame Xiao''s voice, surprisingly gentle and warm, brought an uncharacteristic smile to her face.

    However, Lin Lin, peering covertly, noticed her mother¡¯s hands, veiled behind her back, metamorphosing into a Flying Sword!

    ¡°My mother, with her ruthlessness, ns to murder Yun Xiao before his formal induction!¡± Lin Lin¡¯s heart quaked. ¡°Indeed, a woman from the Forbidden Tower, decisive in her lethality!¡±

    Who could have predicted that Madame Xiao would stoop to murder in such a shocking moment?

    ¡°It should be alright! My father, the Sword Lord of Sword Heaven, will have the final say, and he listens only to my mother. In Sword Heaven, her word isw,¡± Lin Lin thought, steadying her tumultuous heart.

    With a cold gaze, she glowered at Yun Xiao, a chill whispering through her internal monologue. ¡°Despite your Sword Soul, you failed to parry even a single stroke from my Brother Chu. Yourcking in other aspects deres your unworthiness. Death would be apt.¡±

    ¡°Today, an astonishing heaven defying talent rises in Sword Heaven!¡±

    ¡°Wonderful! A toast to you, Great Sword Venerable Ning, and to Madame Xiao!¡±

    While the populous of Sword Heaven, their number exceeding a hundred, bathed in the warmth of festivity, none discerned the swift, decisive spark of murderous resolve veiling the depths of Madame Xiao''s eyes. Her sleeve concealed a Flying Sword, ensnared by a spiral of potent magic, tightly drawn like a primed longbow.

    A mere inch closer, Yun Xiao, and a thrust was destined through your heart!

    ¡°You cheap slut, Ning Yan. You think you can challenge me, Xiao Yu, in terms of deviousness?¡± Madame Xiao chuckled within her own thoughts.

    When the topic of the disciple token of Sword Heaven was broached, Yun Xiao proceeded without hesitation.

    But then, a delicately firm hand sped Yun Xiao¡¯s shoulder. It belonged to Ning Yan, her smile was a frigid cauldron of arrogance and victory as she locked eyes with Madame Xiao.

    ¡°Stay away,¡± she ordered him, and her voice, an austere whisper, curled towards Madame Xiao, ¡°This woman would dance on your grave given half a chance.¡±

    ¡°Ning Yan! Mind your venomous words!¡± Bitterness welled within Madame Xiao, nearly drenching her in its virulent spill. Her de, mere moments prior, had almost been unbridled. Strike, then justify. It was her customary dance.

    However, having entwined in a perpetual duel with her, how could Ning Yan notprehend her nuances?

    ¡°Sister Xiao, have you miid a memory perhaps?¡± Ning Yan, enfolding Yun Xiao protectively behind her, arches an eyebrow, a sardonic grin painting her features.

    No words spilled from Madame Xiao. Her gaze, however, darkened, its lethal chill barely veiled.

    A ripple of apprehension whispered through the spectators.

    This involved a Sword Soul of the lofty Star grade! Did Madame Xiao truly intend to...?

    Jaws hung; tongues tethered!

    ¡°My friends!¡± Ning Yan¡¯s voice, authoritative yet melodious, carved through the tension, ¡°Does anyone remember a certain decree from the ancestors of Sword Heaven?¡±

    A collective shiver palpitated through the crowd.

    ¡°Indeed, there seems to be something!¡±

    While many found themselves ensnared in the cobwebs of memory, Ning Yan, with eyes gleaming and affixed on Yun Xiao, heralded in a voice that embraced both delight and solemnity¡ª

    ¡°Our ancestors decreed... should a Sword Soul of Star grade arise, they shall bear the mantle of Sword Heaven¡¯s Young Sword Lord, poised above all but one within Sword Heaven!¡±

    Her words sent tremors cascading through the entirety of the gathering.

    ¡°The Young Sword Lord!¡±

    ¡°Indeed! Such a rule is carved in the stone of Sword Heaven!¡±

    ¡°This youth, he soars into the heavens, unbridled!¡±

    A myriad of awe-stricken, envious gazes, a veritable sea of emotion, converged upon Yun Xiao in that heartbeat.

    ¡°Young Sword Lord?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s brows betrayed a whisper of befuddlement.

    ¡°Correct! Young Sword Lord! Heir to the throne of Sword Heaven, the sessor to its Sword Lord!¡± Ning Yan¡¯s words, delivered through a gently bitten lip, dripped with intentional resonance.

    ¡°An heir? A prince?¡±

    This status, this identity, was not alien to Yun Xiao. Once, he had climbed from prince to sovereign of the Cloud Nation!

    While Sword Heaven and Azure Spirit differed¡ªthe former, an integrated, paramount sect, thetter, a coalition of Sword Cultivators¡ªthe authority of Sword Heaven''s Sword Lord was undisputedly absolute.

    Correspondingly, the stature of a Young Sword Lord would invariably tower above even the Sect Master¡¯s disciple.

    ¡°Have I truly ascended, in standing and stature, to the heavens in a mere breath?¡±

    Yun Xiao, recently enshrouded in the tendrils of a seemingly whimsical destiny, stood dumbfounded. His newly bestowed title had elevated him to a status beneath only one, yet above countless others¡ªa rank unequivocally surpassing the Great Sword Venerables, and even, starkly, Madame Xiao.

    Madame Xiao, though devoid of actual clout within Sword Heaven, acted with authority on behalf of her spouse, the Sword Lord. Her power was one of reflection, not origin. Yun Xiao¡¯s astonishment intertwined subtly with a delicate shroud of delight.

    He mumbled to himself, a rough whisper dusting across his lips, ¡°So, does this mean the Sword-Tempering Pill will soon find its way into my hands?¡±

    To him, that matter was paramount. His gaze, sharp and probing, skittered toward Madame Xiao, a woman who had, just moments prior, almost effortlessly decided to erase him from existence. When the words <i>Young Sword Lord</i> wafted through the air, he witnessed the silent shattering of her visage, her eyes morphing into concealed stormy seas of rage.

    Lin Lin lingered in a stupor of disbelief while several formidable Sword Princelings collectively expressed their dissent with lowered brows, icy res, and clenched fists. An outsider had, inconceivably, vaulted above them in a heartbeat. Who could bear such an insult?

    Lin Chen internally scoffed, ¡°He can¡¯t even bear a single strike from Holy Son Chu. Yet, he''s suddenly second only to the Sword Lord?¡± But these were silent grievances.

    ¡°I must inform the Sword Lord!¡±

    The tumultuous revtion maized an ever-growing audience, and Sword Heaven was pervaded by a resonating shockwave of collective bewilderment.

    Ning Yan, witnessing the scene, directed a soft, victorious smirk towards Madame Xiao, the air around her shimmering with the sweet scent of momentary triumph.

    In that instant, a ruthless, unyielding announcement cascaded from outside the gates of Sword Heaven.

    ¡°The Forbidden Tower Death Decree has been issued! Sword Heaven, heed themand!¡±

 Chapter 081 - Public Declaration of War!

    <h4>Chapter 081 - Public Deration of War!</h4>

    A hushed silence fell over the room as the words Forbidden Tower Death Decree pierced through the air, an ominous deration that wed at every ear, twisting faces into masks of wary apprehension. Even Madame Xiao and Ning Yan found their expressions betraying a hint of concern.

    A collective gasp was the crowd¡¯s singr, unnerved response.

    ¡°The Forbidden Tower, huh?¡± Yun Xiao remarked..

    Within the vast Sea of Swords, countless forces vied for dominance. However, none cast a shadow quite as imposing as the Forbidden Tower¡ªits rule, unchallenged and absolute.

    Suddenly, a thunderous bang resounded as the formidable gates of Sword Heaven swung open. A man, cloaked in a ck robe, emerged, taking deliberate strides within, greeted by Sword Heaven¡¯s disciples with an honor that seemed paradoxically servile.

    ¡°Xiao He.¡± Ning Yan¡¯s eyebrows knitted together, tracing a delicate frown across her visage.

    Here stood Xiao He, the entrusted guardian of Holy Son Chu, a protector whose only mission was to ensure the unhampered blossoming of his ward.

    At that moment, a chilly resolve flickered in his eyes, an icy stare that unerringly found Yun Xiao amidst the sea of faces. In a heartbeat, his awe-inducing magic power surged forth, washing over the gathering, and pressed down upon Yun Xiao with the weight of an unseen ocean.

    "Xiao He?" Madame Xiao''s face shifted from its earlier ebony stoicism to a shade tinged with a semnce of vitality upon setting eyes on him. She raised her hand slightly, her voice a mere murmur, yet it cut through the silence assertively. "The Forbidden Tower Death Decree, was that you who announced it?¡±

    ¡°Yes, the Forbidden Tower Death Decree!¡± Xiao He, his gaze austere, sweeping across the assemge, articted with a weighty solemnity, ¡°It¡¯s the inaugural Death Decree issued by the Forbidden Tower since the establishment of the Grand Wastnd Pact!¡±

    A palpable shiver of unease rippled through those gathered, their hearts ensnared by atling sense of doom.

    Because before Xiao He had crossed the threshold, he had proimed, ''Sword Heaven receives the decree!''

    Did this not imply an unnerving link between the decree and Sword Heaven?

    Madame Xiao¡¯s lips curled into an eerie, almost spectral half-smile. ¡°Lil He, would you kindly borate on this Forbidden Tower Death Decree for us?¡±

    ¡°Certainly, sister.¡± Xiao He unveiled a ck scroll, his eyes morphing into a frigid, lethal stare.

    "Exorcize demons, guard the earthly realm, the Forbidden Towermands!" he dered. With a sudden lift of his head, his gaze, fierce and unyielding, locked onto Yun Xiao. He shouted, ¡°Yun Xiao, disciple of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, you¡¯ve selfishly defied the Grand Wastnd Pact, ying a staggering hundred thousand demons in the Northern Wastnds and sparking a cataclysmic war between humans and demons. The Grand Wastnd Demon Lord, enraged by your recklessness, pledges to sweep through the world, condemning eighty million souls to sate the Northern Wastnds demon kin!"

    An uproarious mor cascaded through the assembly.

    "That''s a pile of bull! The Northern Wastnds and Azure Spirit sh daily without such consequences!" Ning Yan countered, her voice quivering with indignation.

    "The Grand Wastnd Demon Lord, furious?" Yun Xiao, for a moment, entertained the thought ofughter.

    His other self, Moon Fairy, had already visited the Grand Wastnd and encountered that ostentatious Demon Lord. That Lord, presiding over millions of demons and sustaining thousands of offspring, scarcely registered the skirmish in the Northern Wastnds as worthy of attention!

    Yet, Yun Xiaoprehended the underlying message: if you seek to condemn, you will always find cause. Wasn''t that precisely what Ye Guying had orchestrated? Why was the Forbidden Tower now fixated upon him?

    It was evidently nothing to do with the demons of the Northern Wastnds, but rather because Yun Xiao had eradicated Ye Guying¡¯s kin!

    "The Forbidden Tower Death Decree hasn¡¯t been fully announced, Ning Yan, be silent!" Madame Xiao red at Ning Yan, a mocking smile creeping ever more visibly onto her lips.

    Her family resided within the Forbidden Tower. Currently, with the Sword Lord of Sword Heaven relinquishing his responsibilities, and her managing all. Sword Heaven, having entwined its fate with the Forbidden Tower through numerous marriages, was essentially bing an extension of the Forbidden Tower itself!

    "Challenge me? Beyond your hefty jadenterns, what else can you leverage?" Madame Xiao internally scoffed.

    "Be still!" Xiao He coughed, clearing his throat. His tone intensifying and his eyes, maliciously fixated on Yun Xiao, continued, "To safeguard the earthly realm and rescue eighty million beings, the Forbidden Tower must uphold the duty of the Heavenly Dao! So, the Forbidden Tower issues a Death Decree, the judgements are as follows¡ª

    "Firstly, Yun Xiao must answer for his crimes with his death! His head shall be delivered to the Grand Wastnd to quench the mes of war, ensuring the safety of our people! Secondly, should any formidable entity shield Yun Xiao, they shall stand as mortal enemies to the Forbidden Tower. Every member of the Forbidden Tower will vow to eradicate their lineage, ceasing only at death! Thirdly, should any power provide him sanctuary, they effectively dere war upon the Forbidden Tower! Every member of the Forbidden Tower will march into battle, obliterating them with a thousand swords, sparing not a single life!!"

    In the shadow of Sword Heaven''s Jade Sun Tower, a profound stillness enveloped the gathering following the promation. The three stern decrees, likened to a trio of massive swords, invisibly suspended above the assemge from Sword Heaven, seemed especially poised over Ning Yan.

    Xiao He, having concluded the announcement, stored away the ck scroll. His eyes, emboldened with a malevolent pleasure, leisurely swept across his Sword Heaven counterparts. He drawled, ¡°My fellow Sword Heavenrades, understand all of that, did we?¡±

    ¡°Quit your prattling,¡± Madame Xiao scoffed with a curl of her lip, casting a mocking nce towards Ning Yan. ¡°It''s all there, in ck and white, as clear as day.¡±

    Recoiling, Ning Yan''splexion shifted to an ashen hue, as if a thunderbolt had scalded her very soul. To protect a rebel meant the demise of a n. To shield a rebellious faction signaled the obliteration of a sect. A public deration of war against the Forbidden Tower? Who, in their right mind, would dare?

    ¡°All present, listen well!¡± Madame Xiao¡¯s voice sliced through the silence like a de through silk. ¡°A talent, no matter how transcendent,mitting acts that harm the masses, has surely sown seeds of an unpardonable crime! Although we, Sword Heaven, do cherish talent, we simply cannot abide by those on a demonic path!¡± Her features contorted into a specter of venomous resolve. ¡°The Forbidden Tower, through negotiation and reconciliation with the Grand Wastnd demons, showers boundless blessings upon humanity! Such an epoch-defining act of virtue shall not be sullied by a single, wayward child! Given his sins, of an unforgivable nature, his death shall serve as salvation for the many!¡±

    One by one, the dignified Sword Venerables and elders of Sword Heaven bowed their heads, a sea of stooped spines and solemnity.

    ¡°Xiao He! Xiao He!¡± Ning Yan¡¯s voice quivered, her features warped by anxiety as she took quick, short steps towards him. ¡°Offer us something more, won''t you? What could possibly incense the Forbidden Tower to such an extent?¡±

    No matter how she pondered, it simply didn¡¯t add up. It certainly wasn¡¯t an issue with the demons of the Northern Wastnds; that was merely a facade.

    As for Holy Son Chu? He was, after all, just a connection, his talentspared to the other prodigies of the Forbidden Tower, hardly noteworthy. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t bestow upon him the specific title of ¡®Holy Son¡¯.

    Ning Yan, disheveled and distressed, stood amidst the formidable, secretive walls of Sword Heaven, her heart wrestling with a perplexing quagmire. Should they shelter Yun Xiao now, it was, in essence, flinging a gauntlet at the formidable Forbidden Tower. The very thought swept tremors through the tranquil Sea of Swords, awakening a cacophony of whispered tensions and ndestine affairs. But the thread pulling at the why of it all remained elusive.

    Xiao He, with a mirthless grin, dismissed her with a nonchnt shove. "You always y the sage, don''t you? Do some digging of your own!"

    Her eyes, locked onto his retreating back, gleaned an underbelly of secrets yet unearthed. What could it be? At this juncture, the knot of the matter seemed to lose its sharp edge.

    "Ning Yan," Madame Xiao drawled, her voice steeped in a condescending chill, "do you wish to continue as his shield?"

    Ning Yan''s eyes flickered with undeniable fear as she stumbled back, her voice barely above a whisper. "No... I can¡¯t. I may mourn the loss of talent, but not to the extent of shielding one whom the heavens and the earthly despise." Her face, a canvas of anguish, was close to crumbling into tears.

    Protection was a now distant dream. The Forbidden Tower, with its myriad of piercing swords, had openly dered a war of eradication upon Yun Xiao''s entire lineage! Her protection was but a paper shield against a tempest.

    Should she even dare to express regret for the talent lost, Madame Xiao need not wait for the Forbidden Tower to act; her Sword Heaven¡¯s might would, without qualm, extinguish Ning Yan¡¯s existence and none of its members would object.

    ¡°Any other noble soul wish to protect the boy?!¡± The cold, sharp gaze of Xiao He scoured the assembly, his voice echoing in the immense hall, hanging like an unsheathed de over their necks.

    A collective shudder raced through the elders of Sword Heaven, a symphony of retreating steps, lowered heads, and sealed lips, all steering clear of the invisible gue that the question seemed to carry.

    "He''s mere mortal filth. He should perish!"

    "Better to be rid of such a malevolent talent now!"

    Faces of once-allies contorted into swift, steely masks, exhibiting a masterss of unspoken treachery.

    Pushed to the rear of the crowd, Ning Yan stood, body slick with a cold dread, as the fortress-like walls of Sword Heaven enveloped them all, standing tall yet seemingly closing in.

    Beneath the towering edifice of the Jade Sun Tower, a solitary figure in undting white robes, Yun Xiao, found himself staged upon an impromptu and yet intimate theater of animosity.

    To his left, Xiao He offered a brutal death, eyes filled with predatory gleam and a face twisted into a malicious snarl, one reminiscent of an eagle, indignant and rapt upon its prey.

    To his right, a quivering congregation of Sword Heaven¡¯s cultivators, shepherded by the icy Madame Xiao, found their tongues benumbed, silenced by haunting words of kill orders and derations from the Forbidden Tower.

    Yun Xiao, while expectant of the domineering bile of the Forbidden Tower, beheld Sword Heaven¡¯sportment that day with a certain disillusioned awe.

    ¡°Is this the lineage that aspires to the pedestal of the Sword Pavilion?¡± Deep-seated disdain pooled in Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes.

    When the pressure of the First Sword Peak had ominously loomed, elders and disciples from the Sword Pavilion, unyielding, huddled protectively around him.

    Here, within the boundless Sea of Swords, at the mere threat from the Forbidden Tower, the affiliates of Sword Heaven scattered, each seeking to distance themselves more than thest.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, you ought to surrender! There are some people you can''t afford to offend!¡± Xiao He dered, his voice a spectral blend of mockery and venom. The audience presumed he invoked the name of Holy Son Chu.

    ¡°Can¡¯t offend? You¡¯re referring to Ye Guying, no doubt!¡± Unexpectedly, amid such desperation, the young man in white unleashed a smile, one both light and ephemeral as a drifting cloud.

    He addressed Xiao He, affirming, ¡°Yes, exactly! I annihted Ye Guying¡¯s foster father, big brother, and over a hundred of his family! Their souls, now tethered to the Bluedrop g, have been caressed by the fires of the Azure Spirit Cauldron a millionfold! Their agonizingments? Quite exhrating to hear!¡±

    The words seeped into the crowd, jolting the hundreds gathered with their nefarious revtion. The Forbidden Tower was avenging Ye Guying! This was the undeniable truth.

    ¡°Yun Xiao extinguished Ye Guying¡¯s family?¡± The figures of Sword Heaven found their scalps tingling, a chill meandering down their spines.

    It was no wonder that the Forbidden Tower convulsed with such fury!

    ¡°The ones in yesterday were kin to Ye Guying?¡± Ning Yan, lost in stupor, recalled her attention to Yun Xiao throughout that day.

    With her knowledge of Yun Xiao''s history with the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Ning Yan didn''t stitch together the stories of these two individuals. Her contempt for the Azure Spirit was deep-rooted and corrosive; understanding was not on her agenda.

    Yun Xiao, enshrouded by an imminent dark omen, felt an usatory fury emanating from Xiao He, who dered, ¡°Yun Xiao, your actions imperil millions. Spare us the ther.¡±

    He acted with decisive lethality, unleashing his Sword Soul, and the lethal intent mirrored in his eyes was a tempest awaiting release. He dered Yun Xiao a sinner of epochs and demanded atonement.

    He wielded his weapon with a calcted swiftness, initiating a conflict that none from Sword Heaven dared join. Instead, they retreated a step, a collective, unnerving backward dance.

    In that suspended moment, a frost kindled in Yun Xiao''s eyes. ¡°Can we make it out of this?" he asked the small, ebony beast nestled in his robes.

    ¡°We sure can,¡± it confirmed with vicious assurance, Red Moon¡¯s eyes aze.

    ¡°Creator,¡± Blue Star¡¯s voice snarled with a wild defiance, ¡°We promised to have your back, in every scenario. You crash through; we manage the rest!¡±

    Red Moon grinned, a fierce show of pointed teeth. ¡°Worst case, we catch some long needed rest!¡±

    Their collective rage was an inferno, barely contained beneath their seemingly innocent exteriors. And why not? Their assurance stripped the peril from Yun Xiao''s path. He harbored not a fraction of fear in this treacherous human realm. For who would dare im he was devoid of family in this life? They were his kin, hispatriots!

    He feared not the advance into Sword Heaven, nor the deadly predicament he was embroiled in. His sole dread; that the killing wouldn¡¯t be gratifying enough!

    Xiao He''s de surged, a haunting array of shadowy swords encircling Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Even the handsomest face,¡± Madame Xiao whispered to her daughter with a macabre gentleness, ¡°ends up a skeleton.¡±

    Yun Xiao, seemingly engulfed by the ferocious sword aura, appeared to walk a singr path to doom in the eyes of the Sword Heaven onlookers.

    Then, unexpectedly, Yun Xiao slid a hand into his garment! His eyes coalesced into pointed lethality, a killing intent burgeoning within.

    ¡°Who dares defy me in my Sword Heaven?!!¡± As Yun Xiao poised to release the dark beast, a cataclysmic thunder roared from nowhere, shuddering through the very foundations of the Jade Sun Tower! Tiles cascaded downward in disarray!

    A grey-robed silhouette appeared before Yun Xiao, an inscrutable guardian.

    ¡°He¡¯s quick!¡± Yun Xiao noted, a flicker of shock darting through him.

    The grey-robed figure conjured a storm with a mere wave, swiftly extending a hand to halt Xiao He¡¯s progression.

    <i>SMACK! </i>A p collided with Xiao He¡¯s visage.

    ¡°What?¡± Xiao He, not glimpsing his adversary, felt as though he''d collided with a mountain. Blood and teeth expelled violently from his mouth, as he, with shattered teeth, spiraled backward, cascading against the grand doors of Sword Heaven after an ungainly thirty-yard flight!

    <i>THUMP! </i>Another arterial spray marred the ground as his facial bones splintered, blood seeping from every orifice, his face a swollen, grotesque canvas of purple-ck anguish.

    The brutality of that single p was horrifically palpable, lingering in the stunned silence that followed.

 Chapter 082 - Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng

    <h4>Chapter 082 - Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng</h4>

    Xiao He''s face buckled in astonishment, his eyes momentarily contemting a desperate escape from their sockets. He was, after all, a man of the Forbidden Tower, a harbinger of execution orders. Who in their right mind would darey a hand on him?

    But the cry that came left no room for such wondering. "I won''t shoot the messenger. So, you can keep your life and scram!" The voice, robust and imperious, wove a tempest that struck Xiao He¡¯s form, repelling him with unforgiving force.

    <i>BAM! </i>He tumbled, a second spray of blood painting the air, his form spiraling beyond the grand entrance of Sword Heaven, just as gracefully as a discarded doll.

    A cascade of eyes, as if bound by an invisible tether, allnded on one¡ªa man in gray robes.

    Yun Xiao blinked at the spectacle, threads of bewilderment embroidering his expression. His gaze affixed itself upon a figure¡ªa robust back adorned with chaotic white hair, a man of bare feet and simple garments, cradling a jug of wine as voluminous as a pot.

    <i>GULP GULP!</i> The man drank, viscous liquid spilling down his chin, anointing him in an impromptu baptism. He turned around, the wine navigating paths into his mouth and down his neck with equal measure.

    That face¡ªa middle-aged man of grey-white beard, eyes misted yet harboring an indomitable aura swirling within¡ªpresented a perplexing picture.

    ¡°The Sword Lord?¡±

    Exmations were draped in shock, echoing amidst the abode of Sword Heaven. Yun Xiao¡¯s voice barely a whisper, ¡°Sword Lord of Sword Heaven?¡±

    Was this not the man whose wife, Xiao Yu, alongside the Forbidden Tower, had audaciously sentenced Yun Xiao to death? And here he stood, in defiance of the Forbidden Tower Death Decree, nonchntly flinging Xiao He from the lofty gates of Sword Heaven.

    ¡°What does this mean?¡±

    "Lin Qingfeng? Have you gone mad?" Xiao Yu''s visage was a tight tapestry of rage and disbelief, her voice a thin, venomous hiss. "Did the Forbidden Tower Death Decree escape your ears?"

    <i>SMACK! </i>Her words hadn''t fully dissipated when the grey-robed figure materialized before her, a p etching a stark imprint upon Xiao Yu¡¯s cheek.

    <i>THUD! </i>She copsed, her mind a cacophony of hums and echoes, face aze with both heat and swelling.

    "Woman, what do you actually know,?" His voice was cold, measured, as he nonchntly lifted the jug for another mouthful.

    The assembly of Sword Heaven gawked, visibly staggered, more so than after that first p. After all, wasn¡¯t the Sword Lord supposed to be so utterly whipped by his wife...? Swift, urate, ruthless¡ªthat p spoke volumes.

    "Mother!" Lin Lin, her thoughts reeling, stared, blinking through disbelief.

    The youth with the sword on his back, Lin Chen, hastily moved to cradle his mother, dark clouds billowing in his eyes.

    "Lin Qingfeng... How dashing,¡± Ning Yan murmured, her heart fluttering in thrilled approval, ¡°serving justice one p at a time."

    "Lin Qingfeng!" Xiao Yu¡¯s voice was a mix of aggrieved, enraged sobs. "What is this nonsense? Assaulting Xiao He, striking me; do you intend to wage war on the Forbidden Tower for this so-called prodigy? You''re seeking death, but not everyone in Sword Heaven shares that desire!¡±

    ¡°Dad! There must be some mistake, this man only has a high-grade Sword Soul, he can¡¯t even handle one strike from my Brother Chu. Having only Sword Soul talent means, at best, that his Sword Soul is somewhat strong. It cannotpare to Dao Seed Talent, can it?¡± Lin Lin spoke, tears streaming down her cheeks, an epitome of wronged innocence.

    ¡°Sword Lord, this...¡± The other Great Sword Venerables and elders of Sword Heaven were also rather befuddled. Peace had reigned over the Sea of Swords for quite a time. A deration of war? Factional warfare? Such thoughts had scarcely crossed the minds of many.

    Everyone was baffled, gazing perplexedly at the grey-robed Sword Lord.

    The tipsy man, grey-robed and white-haired, beckoned to Yun Xiao, staggered over to him, and casually slung an arm around his shoulder.

    <i>BURP! </i>A bout of drunken belching ensued. ¡°To issue a Forbidden Tower Death Decree and swagger about within my Sword Heaven¡ªdo you mean to piss all over my face?¡±

    <i>BANG! </i>The Sword Lord furiously smashed his wine jug on the ground, scattering fine liquor in every direction, its fragrance permeating the air. ¡°Damn it! You¡¯re itching for a fight, huh? Fine! I''ve held back enough! Let¡¯sy all the cards on the table! If it¡¯s war you want, it¡¯s war you¡¯ll get. I, too, fancy bing number one in the Sea of Swords!¡±

    Silence, stark and absolute, pervaded the scene following the Sword Lord¡¯s words.

    The minds of those from Sword Heaven went numb...

    Their Sword Lord had been hands-off for many years, engrossed in his cultivation.

    In recent years, the rtionship between Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower had peaked, enjoying a sort of honeymoon period. Merely through alliances by marriage alone, they''d forged ties at least a dozen times... and now to speak of war?

    ¡°Sword Lord, are you certain?¡± Xiao He, his face a mottled shade of blue and purple, scrambled up, teeth clenched tight. ¡°I admit, our deration of the Forbidden Tower Death Decree was perhaps a bit abrupt, but this was done considering the rtionship between the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven, to prevent Sword Heaven from being destroyed over a mere criminal, shattering a century of peace in the Sea of Swords...¡±

    ¡°Out!¡± The Sword Lord, not waiting for him to finish, pped him again. This p, condensed from profound energy, traversed dozens of feet in an instant, crashing into Xiao He.

    <i>THUMP! </i>Xiao He flew backward, spewing blood and rolling several times upon the ground.

    ¡°Fine! Fine!¡± wing back to his feet, Xiao He cast a ferocious re at the folks of Sword Heaven, spinning on his heel to leave post-haste.

    Many scions of the Sea of Swords'' noble houses had gathered at the entrance of Sword Heaven. Seeing Xiao He essentially booted out, necks craned, faces a tableau of peculiar expressions, a hushed buzz of discussion arose amongst them.

    The Forbidden Tower dered war!

    Sword Heaven epted the challenge!

    This was the most stirring event in the Sea of Swords, concerning everyone.

    If they truly entered into a state of war, the Sea of Swords would be a battlefield; who could iste themselves from the chaos?

    By this point, every faction and individual within the Sea of Swords was interconnected through countless ties!

    <i>BAM! </i>The grand doors of Sword Heaven closed, a somber and murderous atmosphere unfurling within.

    The Sword Lord abruptly turned, gazing at the several hundred Sword Cultivators of Sword Heaven before him, his expression solemn, voice resonating with authority: ¡°Send the order down! From this day forth, Sword Heaven shall prepare for war with all we have!¡±

    The Sword Cultivators before him were mentally nk.

    ¡°Did you hear me?¡± The Sword Lord bellowed in a stern tone.

    A whisper drifted through the assembly of Sword Heaven, each member''s face a mosaic of bafflement and peculiar resignation. The vibrant confluence of emotions flickered through their eyes, hurried confirmations issuing forth.

    An elder, his voice a delicate tremble, spoke cautiously. "Sword Lord, might we deliberate for a moment..."

    "Deliberate?" the Sword Lord''s voice was a tempest barely held at bay. "To grovel before the Forbidden Tower? Does our Sword Heavenck even the right to recruit talents with that Tower looming over us? What a spectacle! Wielding the Grand Wastnd Pact so brazenly, presuming we''re all durds! If word spreads, what face do I, Lin Qingfeng, have left?" Hepleted his tirade with a ferocious re at the elder.

    A sea of uneasy silence flooded the gathering.

    Lin Chen, the young man bearing a sword upon his back, found his patience waning, his voice a raspy whisper. "Father, perhaps you should moderate your drinking."

    This wasn¡¯t merely a question of dignity. Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower moved together in a delicate dance of shared fortunes and synchronous defeat, collectively shepherding the Sea of Swords. Though the Tower could be domineering in its actions, at its root, it still regarded them as kin. Furthermore, he thought of his mother, of his little sister...

    "Silence!" The Sword Lord interrupted, his hand pressing down, and Lin Chen was on his knees, his kneecaps colliding sharply with the ground.

    "Father," Lin Chen¡¯s voice was steel, yet his visage revealed the tempest within, veins surfacing on his neck, eyes aze with an undting malice.

    "Lin Lin." The Sword Lord¡¯s palm, ever heavy, remained on Lin Chen. His eyes, cold, shifted toward the young girl, daintily attired in a light yellow skirt, a stern directive forting. "From this day forth, you''ll have no dealings with Chu Yan. Should I witness it, your legs will be shattered on the spot."

    "Father, please!" Lin Lin¡¯s voice quivered, eyes brimming.

    "Or shall I break them now?" He remained unyielding.

    Desperation painted Lin Lin¡¯s features, tear-streaked and forlorn, as she clung to the elegantly dressed woman adjacent to her. "Mother, lend me your voice."

    "It won''t make a difference!" His re, now focused on Madame Xiao, was ice incarnate. "You married into my Sword Heaven; our cause should be your cause. Should you extend an arm outward again, our vows shall be severed!"

    "...Alright then!" Ning Yan, having listened silently beside them, concealed her inner mirth with a semnce of serenity.

    Divorce! A murmur washed over the assembly, a tide of disbelief and wonder.

    In every agape mouth and widened eye that fixed upon the Sword Lord, there flickered a newfound, albeit perplexed, admiration.

    Memories, sharp and vivid, recalled a Sword Lord once effortlessly led by the ear by Madame Xiao, his formidable wife, in a most unceremonious retreat to their domicile. Today, he exuded an unexpected grit.

    ¡°Lin Qingfeng, this isn¡¯t over!¡± Madame Xiao, eyes crimson with restrained tears and me, delivered her threat with venom. In an abrupt whirl, she sought to abscond, intending to drag Lin Lin alongside her.

    ¡°Lin Lin stays. You go home, think about your actions,¡± the Sword Lord uttered, his voice a grave, immovable object.

    ¡°You¡¯ve surely lost your mind!¡± Outrage simmered in Madame Xiao¡¯s voice as she relented her grip, fearing another humiliating strike before the crowd.

    ¡°Xiao Yu shall not leave Sword Heaven, not a single step! If she does, she¡¯s not to return!¡± The promation from the Sword Lord followed the retreating silhouette of his wife.

    Madame Xiao, pausing mid-stride, curled her hands into tight fists. Her visage contorted with rage; it was as though jets of fire might burst from every orifice of her being.

    The spectators multiplied, yet all were rendered mute and motionless, like a flock of wooden fowl.

    Silent gazes bounced between the Sword Lord and Yun Xiao, unvoiced words hanging heavily in the air.

    ¡°Yun Xiao,¡± The Sword Lord turned, a genuine, fatherly smile lighting his features. ¡°Would you consider bing my pupil?¡±

    ¡°I already have a respected master in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Honorable Sword Lord,¡± Yun Xiao replied with unwavering directness.

    ¡°Ah? Who might this wise soul be to guide such a talent as you?¡± the Sword Lord asked, a lightness to his tone.

    ¡°Zhao Jianxing is my master,¡± announced Yun Xiao.

    The name acted as a stone cast upon the tranquil pond of the audience, sending ripples of astonished murmurs throughout.

    A synchronized shifting of eyes focused upon Ning Yan, eliciting collective nods and enlightened ¡°ah¡¯s¡± from the crowd.

    Now the puzzle pieces fell neatly into ce. Zhao Jianxing! A man simultaneously held in envy and contempt by the masses. Who would have imagined, after two decades and some, his name would resurface in Sword Heaven, especially in such an illustrious manner?

    Ning Yan¡¯s expression darkened. With barely controlledposure, she spoke, ¡°The Sword Lord¡¯s offer to make you his disciple is a blessing of three lifetimes! The Azure Spirit...it can no longer amodate your caliber...¡±

    ¡°Hold your peace! To quote an old saying, ¡®A day as your teacher is like being your parent forever.¡¯ Yun Xiao, now the Young Sword Lord of Sword Heaven, and thus my heir, needs not the formalities of student and mentor. We, as Sword Cultivators, need only a shared path and belief to fight shoulder to shoulder against the world!¡± Eyes twinkling, the Sword Lord regarded Yun Xiao. ¡°Am I correct?¡±

    ¡°Profound insight, Sword Lord!¡± Yun Xiao replied with sincerity.

    ¡°Henceforth, you are the Young Sword Lord of Sword Heaven,mitted to our cause in this lifetime. Do you ept?¡± The Sword Lord extended a hand, his eyes shimmering with sincerity and unspoken promises.

    Yun Xiao, the hint of a smile teasing the corner of his mouth, met the Sword Lord¡¯s gaze, ¡°It is my honor.¡±

    ¡°Well said!¡± The Sword Lord¡¯sugh was warm and hearty.

    Yet, the other dwellers of Sword Heaven found their forebodings deepening.

    Their eyes met one another¡¯s in silentmunication, hearts steeped in an unspeakable bitterness.

    Proiming war against the Forbidden Tower?

    Numerous among them had kin andpanions within the Forbidden Tower. The entirety of the Sea of Swords was knitted tightly withplex threads of n andpanionship.

    ¡°Sword Lord,¡± Yun Xiao inhaled slightly, ¡°Might I request something?¡±

    ¡°Speak,¡± the Sword Lord granted, his voice a robust and encouraging baritone.

    Yun Xiao lifted his gaze, an ardent light burning within. ¡°I ask for a Sword Tempering Pill!¡±

 Chapter 083 - Sword Homage Ceremony!

    <h4>Chapter 083 - Sword Homage Ceremony!</h4>

    The Sword Lord paused, his stoic face betraying a flicker of astonishment.

    A nervous tension gripped the Sword Heaven crowd, a mix of disbelief and indignation painting their expressions.

    ¡°I¡¯m asking for the Sword Tempering Pill not out of whim,¡± Yun Xiao began, pausing for emphasis with each word, his voice a resonant and unwavering beam in the tense silence, ¡°My master, Zhao Jianxing, dispatched twenty thousand demons, his de shattering only at the bitter end! He expended himself for the people of the thousand mortal nations, willingly greeting death¡¯s cold embrace. I, as his pupil, desire his continued existence.¡±

    Silence. A heavy, saturated silence engulfed the space, consuming every stray whisper.

    They knew of Zhao Jianxing, of course. His tales meandered through countless conversations. Yet, none ever contemted extending aid, for Zhao Jianxing was the outcast of Sword Heaven¡ªan enigma of solitude and stubbornness, amoner blissfully ignorant of societal norms.

    Everyone deemed him dead already. And yet, here was his disciple, demanding, pleading.

    ¡°You march in here, demanding a Sword Tempering Pill¡ªwhat exactly do you take us for, brat?¡± Lin Chen¡¯s words sliced through the silence, his eyes, afire with an inherited wrath, locked unyieldingly onto Yun Xiao. A violent specter of his mother¡¯s bleeding visage seemed to cascade onto Yun Xiao, crystallizing into an armor of vengeance.

    ¡°Lin Chen, do you also desire the Pill?¡± the Sword Lord asked.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Lin Chen nodded.

    ¡°Can you defeat the Nine Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower?¡± the Sword Lord pressed.

    Lin Chen hesitated, the seconds stretching between them. He hung his head, teeth clenched on a bitter truth. ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± the Sword Lord turned his gaze, surveying both young men, ¡°Lin Chen, Yun Xiao¡ªwhichever of you defeats the Nine Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower first shall earn the Sword Tempering Pill.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Sword Lord,¡± Yun Xiao spoke first. He knew the journey wouldn¡¯t be gentle, but at least a pathy before him. He sought no handouts. A path to strive upon was all he needed. Despite the pressing time, his resolve flickered not.

    ¡°The Forbidden Tower Death Decree, huh?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s heart held a frigid determination. Upon the issuance of this lethal decree, it was a war of annihtion between him and the Forbidden Tower, conditions or no conditions.

    Meanwhile, Lin Chen¡¯s cold gaze lingered on Yun Xiao, ¡°You can''t even best the weakest, Holy Son Chu. What¡¯s fueling this absurd confidence that you can defeat the Forbidden Tower¡¯s prodigies? Sword Soul talent and your advancement in cultivation are unrted! How long can your master wait, decades?¡±

    ¡°Worry about yourself, not me,¡± Yun Xiao responded, voice even, emotion drained.

    Lin Chen and Lin Lin¡ªthe son-daughter duo of the Sword Lord¡ªwatched. The Sword Lord had granted Yun Xiao a semnce of favor today. He knew of their discontent but entanglement was a fruitless endeavor. It wasn''t worth it.

    ¡°Fine then!¡± Lin Chen¡¯s voice rang out, cold as steel against stone.

    ¡°You are both hot-blooded young men, and a bit ofpetition is natural. But do remember, you are all disciples of Sword Heaven, potential pirs of our legacy. Your des may cross for practice, but your lethal intents should converge against external threats!¡± The Sword Lord¡¯s voice held an aged wisdom, an echoed caution from countless yesterdays.

    Yun Xiao nodded, concurring silently.

    Lin Chen offered no words, merely silence.

    The Sword Lord¡¯s hand met Yun Xiao¡¯s shoulder with a gentle firmness, ¡°Prepare yourself tonight. Tomorrow, you will participate in Sword Heaven¡¯s Sword Homage Ceremony.¡±

    ¡°What is the Sword Homage Ceremony, Sword Lord?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°The Sword Homage is a practice of paying respects to the ancestors of Sword Heaven at the Ancestral Sword Hall, introducing yourself to our forebears. As the Young Sword Lord, you must ept challenges from your Sword Heaven peers. Demonstrate your might to our ancestors. Anyone up to three years your senior is eligible to challenge you. How old are you now?¡± the Sword Lord inquired.

    ¡°Sixteen,¡± Yun Xiao responded.

    A collective sneer from Lin Chen and several Sword Princelings sliced through the hushed air at the utterance of that number.

    ¡°Therefore, all Sword Heaven youths under neen may challenge the Young Sword Lord tomorrow!¡± the Sword Lord proimed.

    ¡°Father! With hisbat skills, won¡¯t he lose every single match? This has to be the weakest Young Sword Lord in history, right?¡± Lin Lin¡¯s voice in a tone of faux concern.

    With the help of Madame Xiao, word had swiftly permeated through Sword Heaven. The new Young Sword Lord had fallen beneath a single stroke from Holy Son Chu, considered the weakest among the Forbidden Tower''s Nine Heaven Chosen.

    Yun Xiao, positioned in a role that symbolized formidable power, was expected to be the strongest. And yet, his strength foundered against an adversary perceived to be the weakest. It tasted like a cruel, cosmic joke, vorful and wild.

    "What happens if I win or lose?" Yun Xiao asked. Ye Guying was due to emerge from seclusion in four days. So, the uing Sword Homage ceremony shouldn''t affect his ns.

    ¡°Let me exin further!¡± Ning Yan burst forth, propelling herself into the limelight. Her stance by Yun Xiao was close, conspicuously so, as if terrified the world might miss their camaraderie.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, in your position as Young Sword Lord, you¡¯re presumed to be unbeaten at the Sword Homage Ceremony. Only such an oue garners the recognition of our ancestors and officially delivers to you the cultivation resources befitting the Young Sword Lord title,¡± Ning Yan offered, her voice a gentle cascade of exnation.

    ¡°And if I''m defeated?¡± Yun Xiao probed.

    Ning Yan''s gentle smile flickered like candlelight, ¡°Then you''ll receive the same cultivation resources as all the other Sword Princelings in Sword Heaven. Until the same ceremony next year, that is.¡± A pause. ¡°Nheless, in external dealings, your title, Young Sword Lord, remains intact.¡±

    Yun Xiao desired resources, not empty titles. ¡°So, in every year''s Sword Homage Ceremony, I''ll have to win every challenge to hold my position and convince all my doubters?¡±

    ¡°You dream sweetly. But fail three years in a row, and your Young Sword Lord title will be but a distant memory, perhaps you won''t even be qualified to be a Sword Princeling,¡± Lin Lin chimed in with a pert note.

    ¡°Three years?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s understanding blossomed, yet it did so amidst a garden of formidable, icy stares from the assorted Sword Princelings.

    Lin Lin, a burgeoning beauty of just fourteen, couldn¡¯t veil her scathing scorn, whereas the others allowed frosty expressions to telegraph a unified message, his path would not be smoothed by their hands.

    ¡°Won¡¯t you ask about the resource disparities between the Young Sword Lord and Sword Princelings, Yun Xiao?¡± Ning Yan remarked.

    ¡°Then, would Great Sword Venerable Ning care to enlighten me?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Call me Aunt Ning,¡± she insisted, her face assuming a veneer of mock sternness.

    ¡°... Aunt Ning it is, then.¡±

    No title, however, would sweeten his evident distaste.

    ¡°As a Sword Princeling, you¡¯ll be blessed with 300,000 Spirit Stones, and be qualified to challenge the Rank Three Azure Kites and onwards. But should you hold the title of Young Sword Lord,¡± Ning Yan''s eyes glistened with untamed yearning, ¡°you,''ll receive 1,000,000 Spirit Stones, ten Heavenly Origin Pills, and a direct qualification to challenge the Rank Ten Azure Kite.¡±

    Yun Xiao paused, digesting the opulence of the potential reward, "1,000,000 Spirit Stones? Ten Heavenly Origin Pills? Rank Ten Azure Kite?¡± It was quite luxurious. A disciple, unexpectedly showered with a sect¡¯s fortune!

    Regarding the Azure Kites, wasn¡¯t this Ye Guying¡¯s avenue to ascension? Even fools would discern its sublime value!

    ¡°Am I allowed to immediately challenge the Azure Kite after the ceremony?¡± Yun Xiao asked, his tone subdued yet flecked with anticipation.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Ning Yan, her fingers teasing Yun Xiao¡¯s face in a yful pinch, chuckled warmly. ¡°That''s why the ceremony is pivotal. A victory is imperative, understand?¡±

    After she pinched Yun Xiao''s cheeks, she couldn''t help but sigh, ¡°Such softness!¡± Had she been two decades younger, this youth would have be her pursuit, no doubt. Leaving all aside... just his divine visage, an everyday spectacle, would be an evesting delight to behold.

    Ning Yan, a woman of considered contemtion, found herself in a peculiar emotional quagmire. Her daughter, it appeared, had somewhat ensnared this young man, Yun Xiao. This connection bore future ramifications, entwining with the fortunes and misfortunes of the Zhao Jianxing father-daughter duo.

    ¡°Nope, can¡¯t ept it,¡± she muttered through clenched teeth.

    The mere whisper of <i>Rank Ten Azure Kite</i> sent ripples of longing through the Sword Princelings present. Steeped in nobility and nurtured under the watchful skies of Sword Heaven, none of them held the sway to manipte their path, directly challenging the Rank Ten Azure Kite. It was Ye Guying, who, beginning from the Rank One Azure Kite, carved a bloody path straight through to the Rank Ten Azure Kite, that garnered genuine admiration.

    Should Yun Xiao navigate the treacherous path of the Sword Homage Ceremony, he might circumvent the trials, allowing him to challenge the Rank Ten Azure Kite directly..

    A position coveted by all, two scant spots were up for grabs across the various sword ns within the Sea of Swords. One was tethered to the Forbidden Tower, the other to Sword Heaven.

    The Sword Princelings stewed with jealousy. The concept of an outsider, a mere stranger, standing upon their lofty perches evoked a seething resentment amongst them.

    ¡°Enough,¡± the Sword Lordughed, addressing Yun Xiao and Lin Chen with a wave of his hand. ¡°You young folks, all birds of a simr feather, should flock together! Lin Chen, consider yourself the elder brother amongst peers. Look after Yun Xiao, will you?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, sure, Father.¡± Lin Chen nodded without hesitation.

    The Sword Lord¡¯s eyes slid toward Lin Lin, who was dressed in a short, goose-yellow skirt, her pristine legs unabashedly on disy. ¡°Lin Lin, Yun Xiao will be your guest in the Wind Listening Pavilion for the time being. Guide him through the intricacies of Sword Heaven, see to his daily living, yes?¡±

    Her expressive face crumbled like a cookie underfoot. ¡°Huh??¡±

    Internal me found a target in Yun Xiao.

    Live together? That was ptable, perhaps. But to cater to his every need?

    Was this not simply throwing her to the wolves?

    The elders among them, each a bastion of age and wisdom, visibly twitched at the words, understanding dawning in their eyes. The Sword Lord was severing ties with Holy Son Chu, aiming to intertwine the fates of Yun Xiao and Lin Lin, cultivating potential affection. The potential union between the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven had long been a topic set alight in recent times.

    Was the Sword Lord truly looking to dismantle this from its roots, through his daughter no less? Risking a total fallout with the Forbidden Tower? For one prodigy, was it truly worth it? Heads bowed, silence consumed them, inner worlds capsized.

    ¡°Everyone, the Sword Heaven Meeting is convened,¡± the Sword Lord dered, his sleeves dancing with his motion towards the Jade Sun Tower.

    A meeting to discuss matters most grave. Opposition against the Forbidden Towery on the table, and all knew an arrow loosed couldn''t be reimed.

    ¡°Understood.¡± One after another, the elders and powerhouses of Sword Heaven ascended towards the Jade Sun Tower, casting contemtive, sigh-tinged nces at Yun Xiao as they passed.

    In the rustling of robes, a murmuredment wove through the air. ¡°His Sword Soul may ascend high, but to mature, won¡¯t it require over a decade? Will Sword Heaven persevere till then?¡±

    The air swirled with a palpable tension as eyes shifted among the assembly, whispers threading through the space, an ambient murmur amidst the majestic splendor of the Sword Heaven. Yun Xiao stood, an inscrutable expression painted across his visage, absorbing the muffled discontents uttered by those around him.

    ¡°I¡¯ve always known the Sword Lord has been stifling his discontent these past years, but this move...¡± an elder of Sword Heaven whispered with a weary tremble, his eyes reflecting pools of encroaching despair. ¡°It''s far too perilous, drawing us all to the cusp of the abyss.¡±

    ¡°But what alternative is there? He is our Sword Lord!¡±

    ¡°If we talk of fast-tracked ascension, Ye Guying from the Forbidden Tower, though slightlygging behind Yun Xiao in Sword Soul talent, holds the Nine Dragons Dantian¡ªa Dao Seed Talent. It can hasten the elevation of realms, propelling him even further! Surely he¡¯s a better fit for our Sword Heaven?¡±

    Hopelessness permeated the room, a thick, foggy despair that clung to every word and lingered in every pause. The harsh reality of their situation rested heavily upon each shoulder present.

    ¡°To alter our fate, there¡¯s but one way now,¡± the voice seemed to emanate from every shadow, every corner of the room, as the assembly¡¯s eyes stealthily pivoted towards Yun Xiao, veiling their lethal intentions beneathyers of feigned indifference.

    Above, more elders ascended the Jade Sun Tower, silently observing, contemting.

    The Sword Princelings, with eyes as sharp as the weapons they mastered, cast a frigid nce toward Yun Xiao before departing, their strides emanating an air of defiant pride.

    Including Yun Xiao? The notion scarcely merited consideration.

    Yet, Yun Xiao, indifferent, found a chill of amusement tickling his spine. He spoke to no one, musing with a mocking smile, ¡°Aside from the 1,000,000 Spirit Stones, ten Heavenly Origin Pills, and the Rank Ten Azure Kite, Sword Heaven is worth nothing to me.¡±

    Everywhere else, excluding the venerated Sword Lord of Sword Heaven, paled inparison to the enchanting allure of the Sword Pavilion.

    ¡°Country yokel, brace yourself for tomorrow''s Sword Homage Ceremony,¡± Lin Lin huffed, a smug curl to her lip as she sashayed past him, ¡°My brothers will show no mercy, and mind you, they¡¯re not the least bit inferior to Brother Chu!¡± Not a shred of hospitality emanated from her, no intention to guide Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Wait,¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s voice cut through the chill. His hand sped her nape as she attempted to pass, lifting her with an unsettling calm.

    ¡°What?!¡± Lin Lin¡¯s eyes zed, her voice a mix of defiance and surprise.

    ¡°Your father instructed you to guide me to your Wind Listening Pavilion. I intend to stay there,¡± he responded coolly.

    Lin Lin snarled, ¡°Dream on!¡± That boudoir was her sanctuary, untouched even by Holy Son Chu.

    ¡°Remember, I am a Young Sword Lord. Should you resist, I won''t hesitate to exact punishment,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°Would you dare?¡± she spat, crimson anger shing in her eyes.

    A crisp p echoed, Yun Xiao¡¯s palm meeting her cheek.

    ¡°Waaah!¡± Stunned, Lin Lin crumpled, clutching her reddened face, tears cascading like a shattered dam, her sobs a tempest amidst the tension-wrought atmosphere.

 Chapter 084 - Those Who Misbehave Get Smacked!

    <h4>Chapter 084 - Those Who Misbehave Get Smacked!</h4>

    With an air of nonchnt curiosity, the Sword Lord¡¯s voice rang from above the Jade Sun Tower. ¡°What¡¯s going on down there?¡± His neck craned forward, inspecting the peculiar situation beneath him.

    ¡°Sword Lord, she¡¯s refusing to escort me to the Wind Listening Pavilion. Now she''s putting on the waterworks," Yun Xiao replied calmly.

    Without missing a beat, the Sword Lord answered back, ¡°Give her a good smack if she misbehaves!¡± Dismissive yet oddly jovial, he returned to whatever madness had prior enraptured him. ¡°Remember Sword Heaven! Never have we bowed beneath others, generation upon generation, never bing subservient to anyone¡¯s behind¡ªnor to their excrement!¡±

    A lethargic chorus of agreement came from the wearied folk of Sword Heaven, all while Lin Lin teetered, internally imploding at her father¡¯s utterance. Smack her?

    With a frosty, muted demand, Yun Xiao decreed, ¡°Lead.¡±

    Lin Lin, her spirit subdued and somewhat humbled by an admittance of attractiveness, surrendered, ¡°You... Hmph!¡± Admittedly, his handsome features were a formidable part of the equation. Had it been another person who dared p her, a tempest would have ensued from her, the once-proud small princess of Sword Heaven. This time, her tempest was tamed.

    ¡°Let¡¯s hope your abilities are as robust as that mood of yours!¡± Lin Lin mustered, her words sharply cold.

    From within Yun Xiao¡¯s arms, an incongruent, milky voice piped up, ¡°All is robust!¡±

    Lin Lin halted, perplexed. ¡°What was that?¡±

    ¡°Ventriloquism,¡± Yun Xiao deadpanned, solidly patting the back of her head with a resonant p, ¡°Move!¡±

    Again struck, Lin Lin¡¯s mental state quivered on the brink of eruption. ¡°Brother Chu, please,e rescue me! This man, handsome facade aside, embodies revulsion in every other respect!¡±

    As the words slid from her, her eyes involuntarily lingered on Yun Xiao¡¯s chiseled side profile.

    She sighed, mncholycing her breath, ¡°Ah, if only Brother Chu was this handsome..¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Wind Listening Paviliony bathed in serenity, nestled amidst a vibrant garden sea, where a myriad of blooms congregated. Lotus blossoms graced a tranquil pond at its heart, a petite pavilion sat on its gentle surface, nked by dual, tasteful towers aglow with an ancient charm.

    Indeed, it trumped Cai Maomao¡¯s squalid chicken coop by leagues!

    Yun Xiao, meandering through, couldn¡¯t stave off an exmation, ¡°Living with a girl does have its merits!¡±

    With Cai Maomao, his nocturnal repose was confined to a coffin.

    ¡°East Tower¡¯s yours. Don¡¯t dare set foot in my West Tower,¡± Lin Linmanded, ushering Yun Xiao toward his quarters.

    ¡°Even if you pleaded, I wouldn¡¯t visit,¡± he retorted, desiring merely a ce to rest. After all. he had a coffin to ce, and he couldn''t just leave it anywhere. So, he required solitude, undisturbed and adequately dignified. Lin Lin¡¯s Wind Listening Pavilion was perfectly suited!

    Unlike the vibrant Azure Spirit Mountains, the Sea of Swords was an ethereal sky city with scarcely a scrap of forest, where every inch ofnd was worth its weight in gold.

    Upon entering, Yun Xiao, dismissing Lin Lin, sequestered himself within the East Tower¡ªher training sanctuary. Spacious and sealed adequately, it perfectly amodated the ancient bronze coffin.

    ¡°Let¡¯s settle first. Tomorrow, we attend the Sword Homage Ceremony and challenge the Azure Kites. Before Ye Guying emerges from seclusion, I have to make full use of these four days,¡± Yun Xiao resolved, his gaze fixedly intense.

    ¡°A peculiar day, wasn¡¯t it?¡± A minuscule ck creature slinked from his embrace, eyebrows arched in a sardonic half-smile.

    "Yeah, I definitely didn''t expect the testing of my Sword Soul to lead to this. But thankfully my trump card still remains hidden," Yun Xiao acknowledged.

    Blue Star and Red Moon, the little ck creature were his silent weapons, his trump card.

    "What¡¯s churning in that head of yours?" Blue Star asked curiously.

    "Desire for monster milk is what''s churning," Red Moon repliedzily, on the cusp of falling asleep.

    A crisp smack resonated through the air as Blue Star delivered a p, eximing, "Not you, fool! I meant Creator!"

    Yun Xiao, unblinking, dered, "No need to overthink. When soldiers approach, we fight; when floods rise, we build. Taking the title of Young Sword Lord first, seizing all benefits... once I grow stronger, every scheme, every deceit, and maniption¡ª they all be nothing but fleeting illusions."

    Blue Star chuckled, mischief twinkling in his eyes, "Exactly! Devour their wealth first. If they treat you well, repay them. If not... well, do not."

    "I do hope they show their unpleasant side," Yun Xiao mused, an impish grin flickering momentarily.

    He¡¯d returned a staggering 1,500,000 Spirit Stones to Zhao Xuanran from the spoils reaped from the Northern Wastnds. It was a painful exchange, a back-and-forth pull of two impossibly frugal beings.

    "Senior Sister Zhao is fearsome. I¡¯d rather not encounter such a penny pincher again," he sighed, a yfulness lingering beneath his words, "Those 1,500,000 Spirit Stones still sting."

    Pausing, a thought fluttered into his consciousness, "Right. I forgot to ask Lin Lin about what time the Sword Homage Ceremony starts tomorrow." He turned to hispanions, "Would you two kindly check what she¡¯s up to?"

    "Why not go yourself?" Blue Star lobbed back, an eyebrow raised sardonically.

    "Seems improper, doesn¡¯t it?" Yun Xiao responded, lightly.

    "Barging into Little Cloud Residence wasn¡¯t exactly proper either," Blue Star countered, with a smidge of contempt.

    "Just go!"

    Grabbing their neck, Yun Xiao propelled the little ck beast out.

    Before long, they returned.

    "She¡¯s in the middle of her cultivation. The door''s open for you," Blue Star reported, a trace of casual indifference in his voice.

    "Fair enough." Yun Xiao rose, sauntering to the western pavilion. The door, slightly ajar, conceded under his gentle push, and he announced, "Lin Lin, I need to speak with you."

    <i>SPLASH! </i>Lin Lin surged upwards from her bath.

    Yun Xiao was speechless, realizing he''d been tricked.

    A sharp shriek, pregnant with embarrassment and indignation, sliced through the tranquil air of Wind Listening Pavilion.

    The youngdy, blossoming in her youthful allure, alternatively covered top, then bottom, cheeks ame, eyes shing with ferocious defiance.

    "Why not just sit down?" Yun Xiao suggested, a cool indifference to his voice.

    <i>PLOP! </i>Then, as if light struck dark, Lin Lin remembered her tub.

    "Out, you rogue!!" As tears fell down her cheeks, shemented her fate. She, who had only held hands with Brother Chu, nowid bare before this rascal.

    "When is the Sword Homage Ceremony tomorrow?" Yun Xiao, unperturbed, pressed.

    "Seven in the morning!" Lin Lin, grabbing adle,unched it towards him.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao withdrew, closing the door, his parting words floating back, "A budding lotus reveals but its tips. What need is there to conceal?"

    Lin Lin reeled from the parting words. She looked down at her chest, then broke out into even louder sobs.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s hand, strong and determined,manded the door shut with a resonant crash, his palm then theatrically grasping at the unsympathetic emptiness before him.

    ¡°Senior Sister Zhao,¡± he sighed, looking at a space only he could perceive, ¡°You really are forever a goddess in my heart.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, what a let down. There''s nothing there!¡± Red Moon chimed in.

    "Mhmphh haha!" Blue Star stifled augh.

    ¡°I¡¯ll strangle you, you little liar!¡± Yun Xiao threatened, but without venom, turning their tail into a makeshift handle as he retreated back to the East Tower.

    Sealing the door, he prepared for cultivation. The ancient bronze coffin opened once again, absorbing the world¡¯s spiritual energy for Yun Xiao.

    ¡°The Sea of Swords floats above the heavens, absorbing the essence of the sun and moon. This world¡¯s spiritual energy mixed with the power of celestial bodies; it''s far superior to the Azure Spirit, truly a treasurednd!¡± Yun Xiao pondered.

    Precisely for this reason, the Sea of Swords was able to systematically spawn so many sects and noble families, creating a Sword Cultivator¡¯s metropolis withplicated intertwined influences!

    Within this city, Yun Xiao found the ancient bronze coffin to be strikingly more efficient.

    Even without consuming the Heavenly Dao Sariras, simply absorbing the spiritual energy using the Primordial Void Technique would allow Yun Xiao''s Dragon Springs and Divine Seas to grow much more rapidly than in Azure Spirit.

    An hourter, Yun Xiao suddenly halted his cultivation, his expression peculiar, his eyes somewhat lost.

    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± A pair of deep blue eyes, reminiscent of the starry night sky, materialized on the coffin lid.

    ¡°News from Moon Fairy in the Grand Wastnd,¡± Yun Xiao said, his head lowered, his expression odd.

    ¡°That''s good fortune, is it not? Now that you''re in the Grand Wastnd, the path to sanctifying your body double can officiallymence!¡± Blue Star¡¯s words tumbled out, marked by a sardonic cheeriness.

    ¡°Hmm. Damn...¡± His nod was almost constory, interrupted by a stifled grunt, his expression a mix of perplexity and reluctant amusement.

    ¡°Why such an indignant sound?¡± Blue Star inquired, an eyebrow invisibly arching.

    ¡°Phew...¡± A long exhale preceded his words, ¡°The Grand Wastnd Demon Lord¡¯s daughter, she has... an interest in me. Things nearly caught aze, metaphorically, of course.¡±

    ¡°Ohhh!¡± Blue Star and Red Moon found their immaterial eyes widening in tandem.

    ¡°Creator, quick, switch our view! This, I have to see!¡± Blue Star urged, a keenness palpable in his ethereal voice.

    ¡°Demon milk! The authentic kind!¡± Red Moon bellowed, an odd lustre in its voice.

    ¡°Switch it yourself!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s retort was blunt, yet colored with a mocking humor.

    How could he possibly switch it?

    His body double, Moon Fairy, resided in the Grand Wastnd.

    ¡°I fancy it''s more vibrant there. I request to follow the double!¡± Blue Star¡¯s utterance was spirited, a peculiar enthusiasm bubbling beneath.

    ¡°Demmons! There must be a big boobed cow demon, fixing her eyes on our Creator¡± Red Moon¡¯s voice, painted with an insatiable excitement, echoed through the pavilion.

    "..." Yun Xiao remained silent, at a loss what to say. ¡°It is true though, the society of the demons, it''s more... raw,pared to the Sea of Swords, where hearts hide behind fortified walls.¡±

    When life was primitive, passions naturally red brighter. For instance, the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord¡¯s daughter was incandescently so.

    ¡°Sigh! Life with Creator''s original body is so boring! I still haven''t tasted a single exciting drop of milk yet!¡± Life for Red Moon seemed deste and unlit.

    ¡°Shut up. We have the Sword Homage Ceremony to prepare for tomorrow..

    "I''m curious to see what these revered talents of Sword Heaven have to offer," Yun Xiao mused, a chill light flickering in his eyes. "They really believe I couldn''t even withstand a single swordstroke from Holy Son Chu? What a joke."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Meanwhile, at Sword Heaven, within the Mundane Pavilion, resided Lin Chen, the Sword Lord''s eldest son.

    In the deep of night, three young, gifted Sword Cultivators from Sword Heaven lingered in the Pavilion. Alongside the youth carrying a sword on his back, Lin Chen, they sipped drinks under the moonlit pavilion.

    Yet, the atmosphere was heavilyced with unspoken tension.

    d in unstained white robes, Lin Chen sat at the head of the group, gently caressing a white Sword Soul, his fingers tracing its essence. The intertwining of murderous intent and sword light gleamed in his eyes.

    "You three Sword Princelings, none older than neen, carry the dignity of Sword Heaven upon your shoulders," Lin Chen''s voice was a solemn murmur.

    "Yes, Brother Chen," the three bowed their heads slightly.

    Directly opposite Lin Chen sat a boy in in clothes named Ning Bei.

    "Brother Chen, I don¡¯t quite understand your father," Ning Bei said, usually cold and sparing with words, yet now his eyes zed with an uncharacteristic fire, hinting at words unspoken.

    "No one in the entire Sea of Swords knows what he intends, not just you," Lin Chen responded, his expression cool.

    "The events of today have shaken the Sea of Swords. It''s be public knowledge. Everyone across the Sea of Swords is discussing how our Sword Lord is willing to wage war against the Forbidden Tower, all for a Star grade Sword Soul talent," a woman in orange sighed.

    "Brother Chen, are we in Sword Heaven really going to engage in a life-or-death battle with the Forbidden Tower? We don¡¯t have deep-rooted hatred with them, so why escte matters to this level? Yun Xiao acts ruthlessly, capitalizing on his high-quality Sword Soul, daring even to execute the family of Ye Guying. I can¡¯tprehend why we would protect such a troublemaker!" Another young man in yellow spoke with palpable frustration.

    "Rest assured, there will be no war," Lin Chen stated calmly.

    "Wasn''t today already on the brink of battle?" Ning Bei asked.

    "Although my father is the strongest in Sword Heaven, he cannot control everything. During today''s meeting in Sword Heaven, a few of our elders strongly voiced their opposition, leading to quite the heated argument. After the meeting, those elders went directly to the Forbidden Tower to exin the situation," Lin Chen said, his voice low. "From what I can see, if my father continues down this path, he will be isted."

    "No one in Sword Heaven truly wishes to fight for him."

 Chapter 085 - Why Shouldnt We Kill Him?

    <h4>Chapter 085 - Why Shouldn''t We Kill Him?</h4>

    "You''re not listening to your old man anymore? Sounds about right to me!" Ning Bei''s eyes grew cold as ice. "For the past century, the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven have stood side by side, jointly overseeing the Sea of Swords. We''ve been as thick as thieves. How could such a steadfast rtionship crumble just because of the whims of the Sword Lord?"

    "Very true!" Lin Chen chimed in. "My mother hails from the Xiao Family of the Forbidden Tower, my sister''s been sweet on Holy Son Chu for ages, and I''m set to marry Xiao Xing''er. Do you think these bonds could be severed just because my dad says so? He must''ve had one too many drinks today!"

    "Granted, the Forbidden Tower can be overbearing at times, often overshadowing us of the Sword Heaven," a young woman in orange robes whispered. "But they''ve earned their stripes."

    "Well, Yun Xiao offended Ye Guying first and then came to our Sword Heaven to test his Sword Soul. We could''ve simply handed him over to the Forbidden Tower and washed our hands off the matter," a young man in yellow robes interjected.

    It was just human nature!

    They''d been living in harmony in the Sea of Swords. Then out of the blue, someone showed up, forcing them to cross swords with their friends and brothers from the Forbidden Tower and evenpete for cultivation resources. Who''d want that?

    "As it stands, within Sword Heaven, only my father and Ning Yan stand up for Yun Xiao. Beyond them, everyone wishes the kid would just drop dead," Lin Chen voiced the ugly truth.

    "Had your father not shown up, thed would probably be dead by now," Ning Bei remarked with a cold smirk.

    "True," Lin Chen agreed.

    "My aunt''s been off her rocker, trying to get on your dad''s good side by opposing all of Sword Heaven? What''s she thinking?" Ning Bei shook his head in disbelief. He and Ning Yan, in truth, both hailed from the Ning Family. The Nings were the second most powerful family in Sword Heaven, only outdone by the Lins¡ªboth apex families of the Sea of Swords.

    In reality, most of these Sword Princelings came from such prestigious lineages. The likes of Ye Guying, who wed his way up from obscurity, were rare in the annals of the Sea of Swords.

    "What does the Ning Family make of Ning Yan''s actions?" Lin Chen inquired.

    "They all think she''s lost her marbles," Ning Bei replied with a cold chuckle.

    "Heh, the moment Yun Xiao bites the dust, your Aunt Ning will turn tail faster than a summer storm," Lin Chen mused. "Wouldn''t surprise me if she''s kneeling before my mother by then."

    "I''d bet on it," Ning Bei replied.

    "You think someone might assassinate Yun Xiao?" the young man in the yellow robes mused.

    "Not likely," Lin Chen retorted with a chilly undertone. "Our elders have already paid a visit to the Forbidden Tower to apologize and exin. They''re holding back on their end. For now, they''re probably eager to see if any of you have the guts to finish him off during tomorrow''s Sword Homage Ceremony."

    The eyes of the young man in yellow sparkled. "Could we?"

    "Sparring among Sword Cultivators isn''t a gentle affair. A slip of the de, and one could find it through their throat. If the chance arises, why not take it?" Ning Bei''s tone turned icy.

    "Well then, Ning Bei, Sister Qian, rest easy. Let me handle tomorrow. One swipe and I''ll send him to the afterlife, ending this Sea of Swords farce," the young man in yellowughed.

    Lin Chen grinned, "Xiaolong, you''d be the Sea of Swords'' hero then."

    "Our brothers and sisters are the true heroes. I''d just be basking in their glory," the youth replied modestly.

    "Are you sure you can handle it?" Ning Bei questioned the young man.

    "During thest martial contest, I sparred with Holy Son Chu and bested him slightly. If Lin Lin says he''s inferior to Holy Son Chu, how could he withstand my de?" the youth replied coolly.

    "That''s the spirit!" Ning Bei nodded in approval. "However, given the caliber of your Sword Soul, try not to sh directly. Go for a swift kill with your Flying Sword."

    "Understood," the young man in yellow robes responded, determination evident in his eyes.

    Lin Chen sighed deeply. "Why doesn''t my father get it? No matter how elite your Sword Soul is, it''s just a tough de. Without advancing in realm or power, what''s the point? I can''t help but envy Ye Guying''s Dao Seed Talent."

    "He truly is unparalleled. With Ye Guying on their side, the Forbidden Tower is set to stand unchallenged for millennia," the young woman in orange robesmented, clearly feeling the pressure.

    "Forget about Ye Guying for a moment. Holy Son Chu''s dual-element Sword Soul, and his potential inheritance of the Azure Kite, promises him an immeasurable future," Ning Bei nced at the youth in yellow. "You might be stronger than Holy Son Chu now, but who knows about the future? Had he not misstepped in his early cultivation, he might be..."

    "On par with me, I''d wager," Lin Chen interjected.

    Ning Bei shot a wary nce at the sword case strapped to Lin Chen¡¯s back. "You don''t think there''s any chance?"

    Lin Chen paused, his face shadowed with unease. "Oh, there''s a chance."

    Their shoulders tightened, and the room seemed to shrink, the air grown thick with unspoken concerns.

    "This generation at the Forbidden Tower," Lin Chen began, tapping a finger on the table, "they''re a formidable bunch. And beyond Ye Guying, there''s another¡ªjust as monstrous, mind you¡ªwho''s also earned the Tower Heart inheritance."

    The mood felt like a storm cloud had settled overhead.

    Lin Chen rose, stretching out the tension. "Enough gloom. We''ll reconvene tomorrow. Take care of that Azure Spirit cultivator, and I''ll treat you all to a day at the Spirit Treasure Walk."

    Mention of the famous Spirit Treasure Walk perked them up, a silver lining.

    Lin Xiaolong, the youth in yellow robes, swaggered forward, his confidence back. "Leave it to me. We don¡¯t need the whole cavalry."

    Ning Bei smirked, trying to cut through the weight of the earlier talk. "Lin Chen, by Azure Spirit cultivator, which kind did you mean?"

    "Of course, not a Sword Cultivator. The only thing a weakling like Yun Xiao deserves to cultivate is dogshit!" Xiaolong quipped with a wink.

    Their sharedughter was a brief balm for their worries.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Dawn found Yun Xiao outside the imposing facade of the Ancestral Sword Hall, a structure as ck as midnight.

    "Is this Sword Homage Ceremony a secret affair?" Yun Xiao quizzed, turning to the girl in the soft yellow dress, Lin Lin, who trailed behind.

    "Yes," she said, curtly, crossing her arms defensively.

    Yun Xiao eyed the entrance, then smirked, "Well, I''m going in. You can leave."

    "No," Lin Lin retorted coldly, "I''ll stay right here, waiting to see if you stride out as confidently as you stride in."

    Yun Xiao¡¯s lips curled into a dismissive sneer. Along the way, countless eyes from Sword Heaven had assessed him, few, if any, friendly.

    Shaking off the negativity, he mused, "To me, this isn¡¯t just the Ancestral Sword Hall. It¡¯s 1,000,000 Spirit Stones, Ten Heavenly Origin Pills, and the Rank 10 Azure Kite..."

    The drunken drawl of the Sword Lord drifted out. "Enter!"

    Taking a deep breath, Yun Xiao stepped through. The courtyard was spacious, bisected by a prominent dueling tform, nked by elevated tforms. On the left sat Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng, his white mane flowing, while beside him, the captivating Ning Yan poured wine. She looked less confident than the previous day, probably weighed down by politics and expectations.

    "Let''s get this show on the road!" The Sword Lord bellowed, motioning Yun Xiao forward for the ceremonial rites.

    After the initial rites, Yun Xiao''s gaze drifted to the elevated tform on the right. Several chairs, clearly reserved for the elders of Sword Heaven, sat there. Yet, to his surprise, none of these esteemed figures were in attendance for today''s ceremony.

    "Those challenging the Young Sword Lord, step forward!" Ning Yan, poised beside the Sword Lord, announced in a delicate voice.

    No sooner had her words settled than three young, stern-faced Sword Cultivators, emanating powerful auras, entered from the side. Yun Xiao recognized them from the previous day at the Jade Sun Tower. By the looks of it, each seemed more formidable than Holy Son Chu of the Forbidden Tower.

    "There are five young Sword Princelings in total. Two are on the stronger side, but both are more than four years my senior," Yun Xiao mused.

    They couldn''t participate in today''s ceremony. To vie for the title of Young Sword Lord, you had to best those no more than three years your senior. Any more, and it wouldn''t be fair y.

    "Who''s first?" Yun Xiao stepped decisively onto the duel tform at the courtyard''s center.

    "Me!" A young man in yellow robes, his eyes burning with intensity, stepped forward. Hidden within his fervent gaze was a subtle glint of malice.

    With a flourish, he summoned a yellow Sword Soul, morphing it into a Flying Sword. Two distinct Sword Rings encircled it. The magic within the rings was clearly rted to mes, making his Sword Soul ze like a torch. Moreover, thirty-threeyers of Sword Aura, even higher than Yun Xiao''s, were visible.

    "No wonder he''s one of Sword Heaven''s Sword Princelings. Even the youngest and weakest among them seems stronger than Ye Tiance and Elder Fan," Yun Xiao thought.

    With the Sword Lord watching, Yun Xiao decided to be polite. "May I know your name, Senior Brother?"

    "No more talk. Draw your sword!" The young man in yellow robes snapped.

    "You want me to go first?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Obviously! If I attacked first, would you even get a chance?" The youth retorted coldly, his grip firm on his Flying Sword, ready to counter the moment Yun Xiao made his move.

    The yellow-robed youth stood tall, swelling with pride. He believed, perhaps naively, that since he held an edge over the famed Holy Son Chu, a single strike would suffice to deal with Yun Xiao.

    "All right then!" Yun Xiao muttered, his eyes narrowing. With a swift, flowing motion, he sent his azure Sword Soul spiraling forward. The sword danced, its shimmer resembling the glistening scales of a fish, and aimed unerringly at the youth.

    "Ten-Step Scale? I can do it too!" the youth quipped inwardly.

    There was a unique satisfaction in besting someone with their own trick. He readied his de, poised to unleash a counter. But mid-move, Yun Xiao¡¯s sword took a turn for the unpredictable. The signature ten sounds of the Ten-Step Scale became twelve.

    Before he could react, the azure de shed past his face, and everything darkened momentarily.

    The very next instant, that same de hovered innocently back in Yun Xiao''s grasp, spinning with a yful energy.

    "What the hell...?" the youth stammered.

    The Ten-Step Scale was a move he thought he''d mastered, yet something had gone amiss. Had his eyes deceived him?

    "You call that a tickle?" He taunted, readying another assault.

    "Enough!" A booming voice intervened. It was the reprimand of the Sword Lord.

    "But sir¡ª" The young man''s protests faltered as he felt a peculiar sting on his face. "Brother Bei, Sister Qian?" He nced at hispanions, finding their faces twitching with shock.

    "What? What''s on my face?" In a fit of anxiety, he whipped out a bronze mirror.

    The sight left him bbergasted. There, carved by the precise tip of a sword, were three characters that danced across his face.

    Each stinging mark spelled out the message¡ª''Next One Up!'' The markings spanned from his left cheek to his forehead and then onto his right cheek. The strokes were masterful, the message clear. The room was thick with a mix of tension and utter astonishment.

 Chapter 086 - Brother Feng, Calm Down!

    <h4>Chapter 086 - Brother Feng, Calm Down!</h4>

    The young man in yellow staggered back, his eyes wide with disbelief. "He used the Ten-Step Scale technique and instantly carved these words onto my face?"

    This little disy painted a clear picture.

    If Yun Xiao''s intent had been lethal, that young man would''ve been on the other side of eternity eleven times over. Each word, an artist''s stroke, was meticulously etched onto his face.

    The youth''s skin crawled. "This can''t be right..." he whispered, voice quivering. Not being killed was one thing, but being branded? It was like wearing a badge of shame.

    "You wanted to give me the first swing, didn''t you? Seems you''re not much of a challenge after all," Yun Xiao quipped, fingers casually dancing around his Sword Soul.

    The youth''s face turned a shade redder. "Off with you!" the Sword Lord boomed, sending thed tumbling off the tform in a most undignified manner.

    Ning Yan, eyes sparkling with admiration, chimed in, "Yun Xiao isn''t just skilled with the Sword Soul, Brother Feng. His talent with the de is unparalleled. Perhaps he''s worthy of Sword Heaven''s exclusive Star grade technique?" It was clear Yun Xiao had impressed her.

    The Sword Lord, his face flushed from either wine or excitement, nodded in agreement. With a dismissive wave to anotherpetitor, he announced, "Murong Qian, spare yourself the humiliation. Ning Bei, it''s your turn. Show him the power of the Late Origin Core Realm."

    Murong Qian, a delicate figure in orange, swiftly nodded, anxiety evident.

    The humbled young man in yellow, his face still marked with the words <i>Next One Up</i>, approached Ning Bei and Murong Qian. "Didn¡¯t Lin Lin im this kid folded at a single strike from Holy Son Chu?"

    Both Ning Bei and Murong Qian exchanged uneasy nces. The blood-red inscription seemed like it was mocking them too.

    "We''ve been had by Lin Lin," Murong Qian murmured.

    "Or maybe Holy Son Chu hoodwinked her?" Ning Bei mused.

    The young man in the yellow robes scratched his head. "Rumors are already swirling around the Sea of Swords about the Young Sword Lord''s... well, less than ster fighting skills."

    "No problem, I have a n!" With a deep breath, Ning Bei ascended the tform, standing taller than Yun Xiao. He was at the Late Origin Core Realm, two stages higher than his opponent!

    "If Brother Bei defeats him," the young man in yellow robes whispered to Murong Qian, "no one will ever know what the kid''s truly made of."

    Murong Qian nodded, her voice tinged with expectation, "Right, his fifteen minutes of fame will boil down to not being able to withstand a single blow from Holy Son Chu."

    Their gaze locked, a silent pact formed.

    Suddenly, Ning Bei lunged, de in hand. He hailed from the esteemed Ning Family lineage, which technically made him Zhao Xuanran''s distant cousin.

    "That¡¯s Ning Bei, my nephew. Go easy on him," Ning Yan advised Yun Xiao.

    "Alright," Yun Xiao agreed.

    Ning Bei, hearing this, snapped, "Mind your own business!"

    That entric aunt, eyes wild with desperation, was actually trying to intercede for him? Did he even need her help?

    With a fierce determination, he unsheathed a gray Sword Soul, shaping it into a Palm Sword. Thirty-sixyers of Sword Aura swirled around him, making him look like a storm made flesh, as he bore down on Yun Xiao.

    His Sword Soul, with its two dark Sword Rings, mirrored Yun Xiao''s, both surrounded by an aura that felt as cold as death itself. As his sword sliced the air, a chilling wind roared in its wake.

    He employed the Moon grade technique known as Dark Cloud Eclipse. Its power sprawled out like dark clouds covering the moon, casting a shadow upon Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao, however, was unfazed. In his billowing white robes, he appeared as the embodiment of a celestial dragon. His sword, resonating with power, surged forward, aimed straight at Ning Bei.

    Why would an azure dragon, a symbol of righteousness, fear mere shadows?

    Yun Xiao''s strike, the Azure Dragon Squall, was a symphony of harmony between man and sword. His heart was open, and his stance fearless. His de moved with an intensity that was palpable.

    To those with a trained eye, Yun Xiao''s skill was undeniable. The Sword Lord and Ning Yan, for instance, watched with unveiled admiration.

    Ning Bei, though filled with raw aggression,cked the rity of purpose. In his mind, only one statement held true, evil would never triumph over good! And his opponent was an undeniable cmity to his beloved Sword Heaven!

    In an instant, Yun Xiao¡¯s sword, embodying the wrath of the azure dragon, sliced through the darkness. The de¡¯s tip paused just a hair''s breadth between Ning Bei¡¯s eyes.

    Ning Bei froze, eyes wide, a bead of blood slowly tracing a path down his face. He''de a hair''s width from meeting his maker. A cold shiver ran down his spine as he remained still, his Palm Sword dropped with a thud.

    "Thanks for the duel, Senior Brother," Yun Xiao said, sheathing his sword with a bow. Trivial concerns like how his opponent''s feelings didn''t matter to him. His thoughts were on the promised rewards of the 1,000,000 Spirit Stones, the Ten Heavenly Origin Pills, and the Rank 10 Azure Kite.

    Suddenly, apuse echoed. The source? The jovial Sword Lord. "You truly live up to the reputation of a Star grade Sword Soul! Your mastery in the Ten-Step Scale and Azure Dragon Squall is even greater than mine. If you''re not a genius, I don''t know who is!"

    Smiling modestly, Yun Xiao replied, "I have much to learn, Sword Lord. Your praise is too kind."

    However, Ning Bei, shadows of humiliation lurking in his eyes, disagreed silently. He and the young man in yellow robes had been handily defeated.

    Looking up, he saw Yun Xiao''s back, the young man immersed in light-hearted conversation with the Sword Lord of Sword Heaven.

    "Why should my family bleed for someone who''s driving Sword Heaven to its doom?" Ning Bei brooded. "Who gave you the right to plunge the Sea of Swords into chaos?"

    Ning Bei was far from convinced. His resolve was irond. "If you die, all troubles end," he muttered. Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, he thrust forth his de. A ghostly gray Flying Sword, reminiscent of a fatal specter, targeted youth''s unguarded back.

    Murong Qian and the young man in yellow robes caught their breaths, hearts thumping. "This is it," they whispered to themselves, feeling the weight of the moment.

    But Yun Xiao, ever vignt, sensed the sinister edge of the iing assault. He frowned. A surprise attack after the duel? He didn¡¯t even nce back. His azure Flying Sword met the oing de with defiant grace.

    The impact sent Ning Bei''s gray sword veering off course, narrowly missing Yun Xiao and bearing straight for the Sword Lord.

    The Sword Lord, with the air of a man swatting away a bothersome fly, effortlessly repelled the de skyward.

    Almost simultaneously, Yun Xiao''s azure sword, having dealt with the gray adversary, found its mark in Ning Bei''s thigh.

    "Aargh!" Ning Bei cried, his face ashen. Overwhelmed by the pain, he crumpled, unexpectedly kneeling behind Yun Xiao.

    The sting of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul bit deep into his leg.

    "What in zes is this pain?" Ning Bei howled, his body now sprawled on the ground. He mistakenly med Yun Xiao''s ck Sword Ring.

    Yun Xiao finally turned, sheathing his de. He looked down at the fallen warrior with cool disdain.

    "Senior Brother Ning," Yun Xiao said with a cold smirk, "today you didn¡¯t just lose in swordy, but in honor as well."

    This stung Ning Bei even more than the de. But before he could retort, a hand smacked him, forcing his face to kiss the dirt. It was the Sword Lord, always a fan of theatrics.

    "Brother Feng, hold on! Think of our family ties," Ning Yan interjected, grabbing the Sword Lord''s arm in a bid to temper his fury.

    "If not for your family''s sake, both Yun Xiao and I would''ve sent you to the grave... twice!" the Sword Lord grumbled, casting a disdainful nce at Ning Bei.

    "...Understood," Ning Bei murmured, blood pooling around him.

    "You wear the title of the Sword Princeling of Sword Heaven, yet you sneak attack like a cornered rat? Henceforth, your title is forfeit, and your resources will mirror that of a mere initiate," the Sword Lord proimed.

    "Yes, Sword Lord!" Ning Bei responded, realizing the depth of his folly.

    "Brother Feng, please reconsider! My brother will hate me forever," Ning Yan implored.

    "Your brother is as soft as morning porridge. In the grand halls of Sword Heaven, only you, I, and," he nodded towards Yun Xiao, "thisd stand with spine. Three men in a world that sorely needs them!"

    "Brother Feng, I''m quite certainly a woman," Ning Yan replied, somewhat exasperated.

    "Don''t sweat the small stuff!" The Sword Lord chuckled and belched, the effects of his drink apparent.

    Ning Yan''s anxiety resurfaced, "What''s to be of Ning Bei?"

    "He''ll start at the bottom, like anymon disciple. After some introspection, we might revisit the topic," the Sword Lord said, a touch of dry humor in his voice. "If your brother has qualms, remind him. Isn''t a cowardly ambush after a loss the height of dishonor?"

    Ning Yan sighed, her forehead creasing with worry. "Fine," she responded. She¡¯d hoped to ask Yun Xiao to intercede and say something, but the currents of the situation pulled stronger.

    Murong Qian and the young man in yellow robes, thinking to interject on Ning Bei''s behalf, barely opened their mouths when the Sword Lord''s sharp gaze silenced them.

    "You two had a hand in this farce as well," he began. "All three of you will kneel in this Ancestral Sword Hall. Reflect on your actions. No visitors. No exceptions."

    "And how long?" Ning Yan asked.

    "Pinky swear, a hundred years, no take-backs!" The Sword Lord burped.

    "No, no, I mean how long are they going to be reflecting?" Nin Yan asked, anxiety in her voice.

    The Sword Lord stroked his beard, pondering. "Oh, I reckon a month ought to do it."

    Murong Qian and the young man in yellow gulped audibly. A month on their knees? Their cultivation would be hindered, not to mention the agony their legs would endure.

    "If I say you''ll kneel, then you''ll kneel," the Sword Lord said firmly.

    "Yes!" Reluctantly, the three headed to the Ancestral Sword Hall to kneel, gazes a mixture of resentment and regret.

    Turning to Yun Xiao, the Sword Lord handed him a pouch. "Here''s your bounty! A cool 1,000,000 Spirit Stones and ten Heavenly Origin Pills. Also, you can challenge the Rank 10 Azure Kite now. Ning Yan will show you the way."

    When Ning Bei and the other two heard the Sword Lord''s words, they felt their entire worlds were crumbling apart as resentment and despair stewed in their hearts. They despised Yun Xiao, but there was nothing they could do to him. There was nothing more maddening than this!

    Yun Xiao, his earlier ire forgotten, smirked at his windfall. The ambush had been a jolt, but this? This felt like winning the jackpot.

    "Much appreciated, Sword Lord. I''ll head out now," he announced, already plotting his next moves.

    Ning Yan, always the peacekeeper, followed him out, leaving the trio in their forced meditation.

    Outside, a restless Lin Lin waited. Catching sight of Yun Xiao, she smirked. "Back so soon?"

    "Expected me to be gone longer?" Yun Xiao responded, raising an eyebrow.

    She gave a fake gasp of surprise. "Just didn''t think you''d be so... speedy."

    With a casual nonchnce, Yun Xiao shot back, "Well, some of us don''t dilly-dally."

    Her smirk turned sneering. "For a fellow who chases fleeting pleasures, a swift loss seems par for the course."

    Yun Xiao, without missing a beat, smacked her in the back of the head and retorted, "You really are a dumbass," and continued on, leaving Lin Lin in a cloud of her own indignation.

 Chapter 087 - War of Immortals!

    <h4>Chapter 087 - War of Immortals!</h4>

    In the Forbidden Tower, there was a spiral staircase, reminiscent of a dragon coiled in deep slumber, its stony scales ascending into the unknown. Two shadows emerged against the backdrop of the ascending stairs, finally standing victorious at the pinnacle. Dressed in garments of royal violet and midnight ck, they were Holy Son Chu and his ever-loyal guardian, Xiao He.

    Xiao He, ever the observant one, remarked, "You still nursing that wound with those bandages? It was just a scratch, was it not?" He threw a sidelong nce at Holy Son Chu, his tone dripping with humor, "Those bandages don''t look good on you."

    Holy Son Chu shot him a wry smile. "I figure I''ll remove them when the wound is fully healed," he replied, yet beneath those eyes hid a storm of emotions, a mix of haunting sadness and simmering rage. "I heard the Sword Lord is stirring up a storm?"

    "He really lucked out this time," Xiao He chuckled, his frosty demeanor contrasting with his words. "Had those old-timers from Sword Heaven note running with their tails between their legs to apologize, their precious little sanctuary would be dust by now."

    Laughing, Xiao He winced as his fingers brushed an angry bruise on his cheek.

    Holy Son Chu, with a conspiratorial tone, whispered, "Word is, those elders from Sword Heaven are now in cahoots with us?"

    Xiao He shrugged nonchntly, "Or so they say. The Tower Lord is giving Lin Qingfeng one more shot, what with him being married to Xiao Yu and all. But if he messes this up, his Sword Heaven? Well, it''ll be under new management."

    Holy Son Chu snickered, "We should''ve just absorbed into our Forbidden Tower a long time ago. Would''ve saved a whole lot of trouble."

    "Hush, now," Xiao He warned with a smirk, wagging a finger. "Thoughts like that, especially the details about our little arrangement, are best kept hidden."

    "Rx, Master. I know when to hold my tongue," Holy Son Chu nodded, mischief twinkling in his eyes. "You think, with Lin Qingfeng as his sole bodyguard, Yun Xiao''s days are numbered?"

    "If he manages to dodge the dagger today during that Sword Homage Ceremony, he''ll be dancing with death every day after," Xiao He said, a grin revealing his white teeth. "Picking a fight with our Forbidden Tower? One word from us, and every wannabe assassin in the Sea of Swords will be lining up for a shot."

    Holy Son Chu shook his head, amusement evident. "Poor brat thinks he''s got the whole Sea of Swords behind him. Doesn''t he realize it¡¯s practically our backyard now? You go and kill a prince, then expect to y divide and conquer with us? Good luck with that."

    "He''s quite the naive one," Xiao He said, a hint of amusement in his tone.

    Rubbing the space where his ear once was, Holy Son Chu inquired, "How long do you give him, Master Xiao?"

    "Three days, tops," Xiao He replied, his voice chilly. "If he¡¯s still breathing after that, I''ll see to it he isn''t."

    "With your skills," Holy Son Chu mused, "ending his life would be like swatting a fly." A grin formed on his face as he inwardly thought, "If he kicks the bucket soon, it¡¯s like my loss never happened."

    Yet, how he¡¯d exin the absence of his ears in the days toe was a puzzle he hadn¡¯t solved. It was quite the predicament.

    Without warning, they stood before a mammoth, shadowy door. Muffled sounds, like the distant growls of some slumbering beast, echoed from its depths.

    "Ye Guying!" Holy Son Chu peeked through a slender crack, his eyes widening in horror. "The Tower Heart inheritance is something else," he whispered. "Can you imagine his prowess three days from now? Might he..."

    "He''ll outshine even me," Xiao He interjected, eyes gleaming with respect.

    "That Dao Seed Talent of his," Holy Son Chu confessed, a touch of envy in his voice, "makes me feel like I should hand over my Holy Son title on a silver tter."

    Laughing heartily, Xiao He pped Holy Son Chu¡¯s back. "Word has it, the Tower Lord''s nning on dubbing him the Young Tower Lord once he emerges. Unlike our Holy Son, that title''s got some weight behind it. Just a step below the Tower Lord, yet miles above the rest in the Sea of Swords. What¡¯s a mere Sword Lord of Sword Heaven inparison?"

    "''Young Tower Lord'', huh?" Holy Son Chu smirked. "Sounds just about right for him."

    "It''s no exaggeration," Xiao He continued. "Ye Guying is like a diamond in the rough. He initially only had a Comet grade Sword Soul, but he¡¯s endured and thrived against the Rank 10 Azure Kite with his Nine Dragons Dantian. Boasting both Dao Seed and Sword Soul talents? Thed¡¯s in a league of his own."

    "I can''t believe that Yun Xiao waltzed straight into Sword Heaven. He actually thinks he''s got some glittering treasure with that Star grade Sword Soul of his that outshines Ye Guying''s double gifts?" Holy Son Chu remarked, an eyebrow arched in amusement.

    "Facing the entire Sea of Swords with no friends or heavy hitters in his corner? He''s amb waiting for the ughter," Xiao He responded, pausing to chuckle before continuing. "Gifted but brainless. A lethalbination of ignorance."

    Holy Son Chu let out a heartyugh.

    "Ah, Tower Heart legacy! Over the past three centuries, only two people, including Ye Guying, have unlocked those legendary doors," Xiao He said, gazing longingly at the towering ck door.

    Holy Chu, suddenly curious, asked, "What about the other one, the... shall we say, monster? What¡¯s she up to?"

    "You''re speaking of the Holy Maiden?" Xiao He paused, choosing his words carefully. "Rumor has it she''s prepping for some big showdown."

    "Showdown? Which showdown?" Chu pressed, a hint of frustration evident.

    "You''re out of the loop on this one?" Xiao He shot him a bemused nce.

    Holy Son Chu scratched his head, "Clearly, I missed the news."

    "Well, allow me to exin. The Sea of Swords received three golden tickets to the Heavenly Realm," Xiao He exined, a twinkle in his eyes. "Our Tower Lord handed one over to the Sword Heaven folks, probably for that Lin Chen. And for our side, It''ll probably be Ye Guying and the Holy Maiden taking those spots."

    Holy Son Chu let out a low whistle, "The Heavenly Realm!" His voice was a mix of awe and envy. "They''re preparing for that, could it be...?"

    "You guessed it! The grand War of Immortals''!" Xiao He said, grinning from ear to ear. "All the big shots and bright sparks will be there, vying for the top spot. Just being in that lineup, win or lose, it¡¯ll be a story for generations toe. Every participant will be a legend."

    Holy Son Chu stared into the distance, a dreamy look on his face. "The Heavenly Realm... That¡¯s the dream, isn''t it? It''s everyone''s entire purpose for cultivating! A chance to ascend to the Heavenly Realm and attain immortality!"

    And now here was a shortcut to do exactly that!

    Even if one couldn''t aplish a single thing up there, to just catch a glimpse of the Heavenly Realm''s wonders would be a lifetime''s honor.

    Holy Son Chu sighed deeply, his eyes filled with regret. "It''s a pity, I won''t have that chance. If I hadn¡¯t made those early cultivation missteps, maybe..."

    "You''re giving yourself too much credit," Xiao He interjected, "With Ye Guying and the Holy Maiden on the scene, you wouldn''t stand a chance, no matter how you trained."

    "Fair point," Holy Son Chu conceded with a slight smirk, not the least offended.

    "The War of Immortals will likely be dominated by those possessing both Dao Seed and Sword Soul talents. Considering how vast the world is, imagine the sheer caliber of prodigies that battle will draw!" Xiao He eximed. "Especially those with the Dao Seed talent. I¡¯ve heard there are countless."

    Holy Chu shrugged, "I guess I can''tpete with that."

    "Don''t be disheartened," Xiao He said, pping him on the back, "Your potential ranks among the best in the Sea of Swords. I bet you''ll achieve more than that Young Sword Lord from Sword Heaven. Dominating just one corner of the world can be just as fulfilling. The Heavenly Realm? It¡¯s not for mere mortals. No need to set yourself up for disappointment."

    "I get it," Chu replied with a nod.

    Xiao He chuckled, "Speaking of the War of Immortals, I heard a juicy little tidbit. Not sure how true it is, though."

    "Oh? Do tell," Holy Son Chu said, leaning in, intrigued.

    "Ever heard of the Empress of Divine Dawn?" Xiao He asked.

    Holy Son Chu''s eyes lit up with respect, "Of course! The undisputed Empress of the Heavenly Realm. She whomands all horizons, the ultimate sovereign. The most beautiful woman in all existence, a true deity!"

    Listing all her titles, Holy Son Chu almost lost count. Eagerly, he asked, "So, does this rumor involve the Empress of Divine Dawn?"

    "It does," Xiao He replied, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

    "Out with it!" Holy Son Chu urged.

    "I heard," Xiao He began dramatically, "that the Empress has decreed, whichever man emerges triumphant in the War of Immortals will be granted a ce in the Heavenly Pce... as her consort." Xiao He''s words carried a weight, hinting at the magnitude of such an honor.

    The mere thought of bing the Consort to the Empress nearly toppled Holy Son Chu. He leaned against a weathered stone pir, catching his breath. His eyes danced with mischief. "So, if I follow you right, nabbing that title meansying im to beauty, boundless wealth, the heart of the Immortal realm, and the heavens themselves? Sounds like you''d be hitting the heavenly jackpot!"

    "Indeed," Xiao He replied, amusement dancing in his eyes. "I can only picture the realm''s best and brightest, tripping over their robes and throwing caution to the winds, all vying for that prized position."

    Holy Son Chu chuckled, "The Empress surely knows how to stir the pot. Speaking of which, when do our contenders set off for this grand spectacle?"

    "The moment Ye Guying emerges from his retreat, they''ll be on their way," Xiao He said, a hint of excitement in his voice.

    Holy Son Chu exhaled slowly, "Time''s ticking for me then."

    Seeing his downcast expression, Xiao He attempted a joke, "Ever wonder why there''s that peculiar age cut-off of twenty-two for the War of Immortals?"

    Holy Son Chu grinned, "To give the Empress a chance at some young romance?"

    A good-natured p met Chu''s head from Xiao He. "You goose! Did you forget? The Empress is a mere fifteen! A bud, barely bloomed."

    Holy Son Chu blinked, taken aback. "Fifteen? Good heavens."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Meanwhile, in the towering spires of Sword Heaven''s Jade Sun Tower.

    Yun Xiao, with Ning Yan leading the way, stepped in. Lin Lin wasn''t far behind. They were there for a purpose. With the challenge for the Azure Kite''s legacy looming, Ning Yan was set to unveil the results of the Sword Homage Ceremony.

    As Yun Xiao entered, he instantly became the epicenter of dozens of intense gazes.

    "He lived to see another day?" Murmurs swirled, a mix of astonishment and veiled hostility.

    From his elevated perch, a dashing middle-aged sword master, Ning Que, looked on, nursing a cup of tea. "Ning Yan, enlighten us. How did our young friend fare in the initiation?"

    Lin Lin, unable to resist, chimed in, pointing at Yun Xiao, "Predictably, he got thrashed. No surprises there."

 Chapter 088 - A Path of Corpses

    <h4>Chapter 088 - A Path of Corpses</h4>

    "He lost?" Ning Que and his colleagues stared, blinking in a synchronized blend of disbelief and confirmation. Defeat had not taken them aback, no. Rather, it was Yun Xiao''s stubborn insistence on living that left them gobsmacked.

    Lin Chen, the sword carrying youth leaning by the window in the secluded nook of the Jade Sun Tower, spoke to Ning Jing, the green-ddy beside him, tenderly and with a modicum of subdued shock in his voice. "Your brother messed it up," he stated, an eyebrow arched upward in contemtion.

    Ning Jing, soft features slightly illuminated by the filtered light that crept through the worn curtains, whispered back, ¡°With the Sword Lord and Aunt Ning around, killing him wasn¡¯t going to be easy, anyhow."

    "Fine, I''ll do it myself!" He twitched, beginning to rise, an indignant retort poised on his lips, but she quicklyid a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Let¡¯s not rush. There are enough vultures circling him without you joining the fray. Besides, your father wouldn¡¯t be pleased with your... direct approach."

    Lin Chen expelled a short, frustrated breath. "Seeing him flit about daily is like a persistent gnat at a summer feast."

    Ning Jing rubbed her temples, attempting to stave off the budding headache. "It''s only been two days... And honestly, despite the atrocities he¡¯smitted, the boy doesn¡¯t look... entirely malevolent. And consider your father¡¯s perspective¡ªSword Heaven traditionally has the right to ept any disciples we wish. Those Forbidden Tower folks... their respect for us dwindles by the day."

    His eyes narrowed into icy slits. "What are you implying?"

    She lowered her gaze, her voice soft, resigned. "Apologies. I spoke out of turn. I simply do not wish to witness estrangement between you and your father."

    "Ning Jing! He may look benign, but that devil tore Ye Guying''s family to pieces and torched their souls!" Lin Chen¡¯s voice was a harsh whisper, his eyes aze with a potent mix of fear and anger.

    "Mhm." She drew a slow, deliberate breath and chose silence.

    Their whispers echoed faintly against the walls as, across the room, Ning Que and his cohort of Great Sword Venerables and elders scrutinized Yun Xiao with veiled menace.

    "Who did he lose to? Lin Xiaolong?" Ning Que asked, nonchntly lobbing the question toward his sister, Ning Yan, his shoulders offering an indifferent shrug.

    Lin Lin, her voice dripping with sarcasm and barely contained glee, interjected, "Clearly!" Her eyes gleamed with unholy satisfaction upon seeing Yun Xiao''s disgrace.

    Ning Yan''s eyes snapped towards the girl, her voice a sternsh, "Enough, Lin Lin! You''ve been poisoned by Holy Son Chu¡¯s charisma, haven''t you? Go home. Your intellect is sorely in need of nourishment."

    "Aunt Ning, how could you..." Lin Lin¡¯s eyes flickered with startled indignation.

    "All that''s good about him is his Sword Soul. His cultivation is mediocre at best. So, what are you scolding Lin Lin for?" Ning Que said, putting down his cup as he nced at Ning Yan.

    With a disdainful nce at them all, Ning Yan spoke, ¡°I¡¯ve no patience for this drivel. I was present during his battle with Holy Son Chu. The one undone by a sword strike was Holy Son Chu, not him.¡±

    A pause stretched through the room, palpable and thick.

    Ning Que released a dismissive chuckle. "Sister, surely, you wouldn¡¯t concoct such tales merely to validate your discernment?"

    Ning Yan remained silent, stoic against the skeptically arching brows around her.

    Lin Chen¡¯s voice, cool and distant, emanated from his shadowy corner, "So, you suggest Holy Son Chu, after his defeat, perverted the oue to save face?"

    "Do you believe me?" Ning Yan countered.

    "I believe in Holy Son Chu." Lin Chen¡¯s reply hung heavy in the dim light of the room.

    Ning Yan scanned the assembled faces, reading the disbelief etched into their expressions.

    Loyalty was a peculiar beast; it molded their beliefs, reshaping them to stand steadfastly with their chosen ally.

    Lin Lin almost chuckled, "Why would Holy Son Chu resort to such depravity? The truly vile one is surely the one who''d spy on others whilst they bathe, no?"

    Exasperated, Ning Yan waved a dismissive hand. "Enough. Yun Xiao, we depart."

    But Ning Que rose, his voice a deliberate calm, "Wait. Where is Lil Bei?"

    "He vited the rules. All three were punished by the Sword Lord, condemned to kneel in homage at the Ancestor Sword Hall for a month," Ning Yan pronounced with an air of impartiality, her words wafting through the room like a dispassionate breeze.

    Lin Lin, agog, stiffened into a sort of paralytic disbelief. She had been so thoroughly engrossed in the spectacle at Jade Sun Tower, relishing the sight of Yun Xiao stumbling through one mishap after another, that the trio had slipped entirely from her mind.

    Ning Que''s voice turned cial. "And how, pray tell, did Lil Bei contravene the rules?"

    "Brother Bei''s got a spine too sturdy for his own good, no doubt. Wouldn¡¯t soften his stance and so angered my father," Lin Lin articted with a self-assuredness that bordered onical.

    Yun Xiao merely remained silent, internally tipping his hat to the girl¡¯s wildly inventive imagination.

    "You can stand all this?" Blue Star''s eyes bulged as he sputtered out the words.

    "I bloody well need to get the Rank 10 Azure Kite in my grasp first," Yun Xiao murmured, scarcely audible.

    If he had let his sword find its mark upon the girl''s skull, the Azure Kite would certainly have slipped beyond his reach. A few more hours of this torment, that he could endure. He refused to drag this ordeal into the morrow. With 1,000,000 Spirit Stones and ten Heavenly Origin Pills now nestled safely in his possession, only the Rank 10 Azure Kite remained out of reach.

    "The Sword Lord, he really..." When one¡¯s own offspring harbor suspicions, what hope remains tomand the faith of others? While lips remained tightly sealed, the epithet <i>doddering fool </i>was virtually emzoned across every countenance.

    "Because my son refuses to go easy, he forces my son to kneel for an entire month?" Ning Que¡¯s palm met the table with a thunderous p.

    "Indeed! The Sword Lord has even stripped your son of his Sword Princeling title. Can you stomach that?" Ning Yan''s voice was thick with venom, a cold smirk ying across her face. She was incensed too, so she hardly cared to exin the situation.

    Ning Que''s gaze red with a tumultuous fury. "Ning Bei is no longer a Sword Princeling?"

    A collective inhale filled the Jade Sun Tower as individuals rose, one after the other.

    Lin Chen''s rage seared hotter than most. That youth was his sworn brother, bound by blood not shared but chosen! "Father, you¡¯re terminally ill of the mind," he silently cursed.

    "Ning Yan!" Ning Que, ame with his own anger, boomed, "Persist in this foolishness, and I shall seek Father this instant. We shall observe how he sees fit to discipline you!"

    Ning Yan''s father, a pir within Sword Heaven, had witnessed epochs pass.

    Ning Yan, her voice an arctic wind, replied, "As you wish. I intend to escort Yun Xiao to im the Rank 10 Azure Kite."

    "The Sword Lord seemingly bestowed the title of Young Sword Lord upon Yun Xiao through sheer force," someone whispered, their voice a tremulous murmur.

    "Such injustice!"

    Eyes, aze with indignation, converged upon Yun Xiao.

    The room became a cauldron of barely-contained fury.

    In many hands, Sword Souls began to manifest, flickering into existence with a spectral glow.

    "Ning Yan, you¡¯ve coursed through life, erring significantly but twice. First, when you drank with that uncouth Zhao Jianxing, and second, when you chose to shield this wretched cur! This one¡¯s the disciple of Zhao Jianxing, isn¡¯t he? I perceive your destiny is to fall, one way or another, to the name Zhao Jianxing!" Ning Que''s voice was a low, furious growl.

    "Go to hell!" Ning Yan was a storm, fury and offense shing in a tumultuous tempest within her. She was utterly, unabashedly livid. For a brief moment prior, anxiety had flickered within her. Her eyes kindled with a me of a ferocious, blood-red hue.

    Zhao Jianxing. He, used once more as a weapon to disgrace her, was a name she had endured enough.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, we¡¯re leaving,¡± she stated, a tremble of unyielding spirit lingering in her voice.

    Every ounce of her lifelong resentment shifted onto Yun Xiao. Only by watching this child audaciously trample upon the pride of the very people before them, she reasoned, could she escape the shackles of their scorn.

    Swiftly, she spun around, her fingerstching onto Yun Xiao¡¯s arm, pressing with an intensity that spoke volumes of her despair.

    ¡°It''s outrageous. He doesn''t deserve the 1,000,000 Spirit Stones, nor the ten Heavenly Origin Pills, and certainly not the Rank 10 Azure Kite!¡± someone said in righteous indignation..

    ¡°Injustice! Ning Bei is wronged!¡± erupted another cry, as the interior of Sword Heaven boiled with a simmering mixture of anger and resentment, all now more tumultuous.

    ¡°We¡¯re heading to the Sea of Swords as well,¡± Ning Que abruptly dered.

    ¡°What for?¡± Lin Chen queried with a brow arched curiously.

    ¡°Everyone wants Yun Xiao gone for the peace in the Sea of Swords. And Ning Yan thinks she can take him out of Sword Heaven? I wouldn''t be surprised if he was killed on the way there.¡± Ning Que cast a sidelong nce towards Ning Jing, ¡°Plus, our dear Ning Jing is also going to challenge the Rank Six Azure Kite today.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s contingent on how gruesomely he meets his end...¡± Lin Chen''s voice trailed, his thoughts meandering to the recollection of his father¡¯s hand striking his mother¡¯s face.

    After witnessing such a scene, he¡¯d pledged an unwavering vow. Not until Yun Xiao¡¯s demise would he permit himself the title of a man.

    This young man in white robes had barged into the Sea of Swords, his mere presence distorting the peaceful tides into a surging tempest.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    ¡°That¡¯s thed! Yun Xiao!¡±

    ¡°A Sword Soul of Star grade!¡±

    The Sea of Swords, with its meticulous array of streets and towers reminiscent of a celestial sword city, buzzed with Sword Cultivators.

    As Ning Yan and Yun Xiao traversed through the streets, they became the epicenter of a vast, enveloping sea of spectators.

    <i>KLANG! </i>Every ten steps Yun Xiao took, a Flying Sword lunged at his forehead, eager to im his life.

    ¡°Opposing the Forbidden Tower equals death!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just trying to conduct decent business here. Who wants internal strife in the Sea of Swords?¡± a voice cried from the throng.

    Yun Xiao, confronting these Flying Swords, exhibited not an ounce of mercy, extracting his Sword Soul, and slicing through the air with ferocious might.

    The Flying Swords, now a cascade of fractured metal, fell to the ground.

    ¡°Aghhh!!!¡± A slew of assants, those hidden within the concealed recesses of the crowd, copsed, eyes vacant and wide, as they crumbled, howling in anguish.

    ¡°You seem to be quite the recipient of ire,¡± Blue Star chortled, his eyes gleaming with sly amusement.

    ¡°It''s mere opportunism. If I stood stronger than Ye Guying, mightier than the Forbidden Tower, I¡¯d be the saint of this Sea of Swords,¡± Yun Xiao uttered calmly. His demeanor, unclouded andposed, remained untouched by the chaos around him.

    ¡°That''s true enough! Genuine souls, harboring true justice in their hearts, wouldn¡¯t be in a rush to obliterate you here and now. Those acting are simply vying for some favor from the Forbidden Tower and Ye Guying,¡± Blue Star reflected before sighing, ¡°This world, crafted by the Creator Immortal, it¡¯s a perplexing concoction of beings and narratives. Bet the Creator didn¡¯t foresee this entanglement.¡±

    Yun Xiao offered a gentle, unassuming smile, a soft curve of lips that belied the tumultuous Sea of Swords he navigated. "One grows ustomed," he remarked with an air of nonchnce, his de dancing through an ocean of adversaries.

    His knowledge of the human heart, gleaned from an existence marred and moulded by the mortal world, became hispass amidst the tempest. Every step, a challenge; every sword, a testament¡ªthe colossal presence of the Sea of Swords left no room for hesitation. His solution was found not in avoidance, but in facing the tumult head-on.

    "Let the swords fly a while longer," Yun Xiao dered, his voice a tranquil sea amidst the storm, just before his own sword cleaved through an airborne adversary, shattering a lethal projectile aimed for his skull. A distant scream told the tale of a foe felled, a testament to his unyielding advance.

    Walking a path, simultaneously sowing and reaping death, his actions bore witness to a ruthlessness born of necessity, a murderer forged by circumstance.

    Ning Yan, pausing to look back at the young man, her eyes a mirror of both bewilderment and faint reflection, inquired, ¡°Do you not fear this spectacle?¡±

    "Life and death are decreed by fate. What is there to fear?" His eyes, aze with an indomitable spirit that rolled and billowed like infinite, undting clouds, betrayed not a single trace of dread. He moved forward, an unstoppable force.

    With a mischievous twist, Ning Yan candidly ventured, "Ah, you must be quite charming! Have you and my daughter be... involved?¡±

    Caught off-guard, Yun Xiao nearly choked, the imposing aura he¡¯d so carefully cultivated shattered by her unexpected query.

    Understanding painted her features in colorful strokes. Ning Yan, a traveler of life¡¯s myriad paths, discerned his answer in the delicate hue that kissed his cheeks. With a knowing, almost wistful shake of her head, she prodded, ¡°My daughter has a fine figure, doesn¡¯t she? And her skills? How do they fare?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s choose a different topic,¡± Yun Xiao, earnestly fixing his gaze ahead, sought to divert the conversation. ¡°By the way, what exactly is the Azure Kite that you speak of?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know, yet you seek to challenge it?¡± Ning Yan stared, momentarily stunned.

    ¡°Was it not you who directed me there?¡± Responding, Yun Xiao shattered another Flying Sword, the death of its controller an unseen footnote in his path.

    Ning Yan could only meet his actions with silence.

    She had drawn her lips into a thin line before turning her focus towards Yun Xiao, imparting the lore of the mystic entity. "The Azure Kite, it¡¯s a divine being, sent from what they call the Heavenly Realm. It¡¯s a gift from the Immortal Empire to our Sea of Swords," she started, her voice carrying a trace of reverence. "Nobody really knows what it''s made of or what its essence is. All we know is, it has two main effects. First, it''s supposed to make your Sword Soul evolve. Second, it acts like a demon bone. It boosts theyers of your Sword Aura."

    "The Heavenly Realm, what''s that?" Yun Xiao asked, immediately after his sword found yet another victim.

    Ning Yan, with an amused twinkle, pointed a dainty finger skyward. "Up there!"

    "Like, where the Immortals reside?" Yun Xiao blinked in thought, dispatching yet another soul on his relentless path.

    She shrugged, a subtle smirk curling. "Perhaps? All I know, it¡¯s a ce that scares the living daylight out of folks. Rumor has it that it''s crawling with Dao Seed Talents."

    Yun Xiao made a nomittal noise, exchanging a ndestine, excited nce with the Blue Star nestled in his arms.

    Ning Yan continued with an aura of casual storytelling, "There are four different ranks to the Azure Kite¡ªOne, Three, Six, and Ten!"

    "And here I thought there were ten ranks!" Yun Xiao interjected.

    She didn''t lose stride, "Each rank of the Azure Kite offers a unique enhancement to the Sword Soul. The average person has to start from Rank One, absorbing its power bit by bit until he can move up. But you, a Young Sword Lord, can directly challenge Rank 10!" Here she paused, leaning in slightly, her voice a murmur of sincere counsel, "But, Rank 10 isn¡¯t a cakewalk. I''d suggest starting from three, give your Sword Soul time to adapt."

    He shrouded three more Flying Swords in destructive force, toppling three more lives, before posing, "How tough is Rank 10?"

    "Well, let me paint you a picture," she said, clearing her throat slightly for dramatic effect. "Since the Azure Kites descended from the Heavenly Realm, only five of the Rank 10 ones have made an appearance. Across a sea of endless years, only Ye Guying has managed to inherit one. The other four? Still out there, waiting."

    Silence drenched Yun Xiao, a brief homage to those before him who¡¯d failed.

    Ning Yan softly added, "You, with a Star grade Sword Soul¡ªthe first in the Sea of Swords'' storied history¡ªmight just have a fighting chance against a Rank 10 Azure Kite. Maybe even absorb one. But, and it''s a big but, if you fail, your Sword Soul¡¯s gonna pay a hefty price. So, maybe ease into it? Start at three."

    "Mhm." Yun Xiao offered a singr grunt of acknowledgment. He didn''t need to worry about what rank to start at. What mattered was how many Azure Kites he could absorb, how much his Sword Soul could evolve, and how many moreyers of Sword Aura he could add!

    As the conversation dimmed into contemtive silence, Yun Xiao lifted his gaze. The Azure Kite Sea sprawled before them, endless and enigmatic.

    Behind him, a solemn path, painted with the stillness of the fallen.

 Chapter 089 - Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower

    <h4>Chapter 089 - Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower</h4>

    In the distance, a mystical ocean of fog unfolded its alluring veil. Within its nebulous embrace, the concealed trill of bird calls¡ªa sonorous melody crafted by the keening of sword energy¡ªsliced through the air, their dissonant symphony creating a peculiar, ear-pricking charm.

    This was the realm of the Azure Kite Sea, a ce where all the ethereal Azure Kites, descended from the Heavenly Realm, convened.

    Numerous architectural wonders encircled the Azure Kite Sea. An amalgamation of taverns, inns, and a myriad of shops birthed a circr thoroughfare, christened the Azure Kite Street within the illustrious Sea of Swords. It was a domain coveted by earthly Sword Cultivators, yet a haven inessible due to its extravagant opulence.

    The Sea of Swords, resplendent with its manifold treasures, came with a price tag far too steep for the ordinary cultivator from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. They, stepping into this vibrant cosmos, mirrored country folks wandering into a bustling metropolis. To themon citizenry, cultivators from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect were guardians, earthly and steadfast, whereas the beings inhabiting the Sea of Swords were genuine celestials, lofty and untouchable, aloof from worldly trifles.

    Each pce and pavilion on Azure Kite Street bore witness to the allure within the Azure Kite Sea, offering unhindered views of its enigmatic depths. Therefore, whenever its gates creaked open, the adjacent inns and taverns burgeoned with life and cheer. Guests, sprawled leisurely upon cushy beds, would sip mellow wine and nibble on enticing morsels, eyes aglow with delight at the spectacle ofpeting young geniuses from every conceivable corner of the Sea of Swords. It was, indeed, a sight for sore eyes.

    When Yun Xiao made his entrance, the threshold of the Azure Kite Sea was already bustling with eager souls.

    "Just a bit longer. The Azure Kite Sea will be opening up soon," Ning Yan murmured. Her journey thus far, though personally unmarred by the assault of Flying Swords, bore the weight of each strike as she upheld her role as Yun Xiao''s protector, every blow a strike on her silent resolve.

    "Mmm!" Yun Xiao¡¯s nonchnce was imprable. He cast his eyes in the distance, peering into the azure depths of the sea, where the peculiar birds glided gracefully above the cloud-kissed waves.

    These ethereal beings seemed forged from an enigmatic concoction of sword energy and demon bone, bodies inscribed with ancient runes. Lifeless, yet their soaring and diving amidst the heavens emanated a spirited vitality.

    "So, these are the Rank One Azure Kites, huh?" Yun Xiao mused aloud, a hint of impatience fraying his words. "Wonder how those Rank Three ones in the second ring, the Rank Six ones in the third, and those four mighty Rank 10 ones in the center will be?" The powerhouses of the Sea of Swords hadn¡¯t made a move against him yet, and thus, his window, with credentials of the Creator Immortal, to wildly plunder, was agape.

    Yun Xiao, under the gaze of myriad eyes, felt each look prick at his skin, as tangible as the thrust of a de. The onlookers, perched in the thoroughfare, shrouded inns, and bustling taverns that enclosed the Sea of Swords, hardly shrouded their animosity.

    His eyes flicked beyond the misty abyss of the sea, locking onto a shadowy silhouette in the distance¡ªthe Forbidden Tower. It lingered there, a specter in the fog, brooding and unattainable.

    Close, yet worlds away.

    ¡°He really dared to show his face here, huh? A mocking affront to the Death Decree!¡± a hushed whisper slithered through the gathering.

    ¡°Guess he believes the Sword Lord of Sword Heaven will shield him? Death wish, if you ask me...¡±

    These low murmurs, venomous and insidious, crept into his ears, each word a stinging ant.

    "Wow! You''re still not dead?" Then, a scoff, brittle and cold, wafted from behind him. Without turning, Yun Xiao recognized the voice¡ªLin Lin¡¯s icy disdain.

    In the moments that followed, a party from Sword Heaven strolled forth. Among them, Ning Que, the head of the Ning Family; Lin Chen, a young man with a sword slung over his back, the strongest of the Sword Princelings; Ning Jing; and that taunting girl, Lin Lin. Also in tow, various Great Sword Venerables and a handful of elders from Sword Heaven.

    Aside from Lin Lin, who seemed to relish her snide remarks, the others maintained a chilling detachment in their gaze.

    ¡°You folks just follow wherever the trouble is, huh?¡± Ning Yan quipped, her eyes performing an exaggerated roll.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tter yourself, Auntie,¡± Ning Jing retorted, her demeanor a gentle counter to her words. She was, after all, the most tranquil and understated of the Sword Princelings. ¡°I¡¯m just here to challenge the Rank Six Azure Kite.¡±

    ¡°Why bother engaging with this lunatic?¡± her father, Ning Que, scowled at her. ¡°Secure the Rank Six Azure Kite today, and you¡¯re onto the Establishment Origin Core Realm. Your aunt here might not even be your match then!¡±

    Ning Jing pursed her lips, silence enveloping her response. In truth, the rtionship she''d harbored with her Aunt Ning Yan had always radiated warmth, especially in her youth, when Ning Yan had showered her with affection.

    ¡°Think you can handle it?¡± Lin Chen asked, a brief nce punctuating his question.

    Ning Jing, eyebrows furrowed slightly, whispered vehemently to herself, teeth nearly grazing her bottom lip. "Last time, I missed it by just a hair and let that Rank Six Azure Kite slip away. But this time... it''s mine!"

    Beside her, Lin Lin exhaled dramatically, grasping Ning Jing''s hand and tugging slightly for emphasis. "What a pitiful bunch they''ve sent after him," she sighed, her voice a mix of irritation and resigned amusement. "Can''t believe not a single one of them could take him down. Now he¡¯s off to embarrass himself at the Azure Kite Sea." Her pouty demeanor lifted momentarily as she added, "Good thing we have you, Sister Jing. As long as you''re with us, Sword Heaven will pull through with something from the Azure Kite Sea, at least."

    Ning Jing shook her head, kindness dancing in her eyes amidst the firm resolve. "Lin Lin, it¡¯s not that simple. Hisbat power might beckluster, but his Sword Soul¡¯s grade is sky-high. The Azure Kite''s adaptability isrgely tied to the Sword Soul. So, believe it or not, he might even snag himself a Rank 10 Azure Kite today!"

    Lin Lin¡¯s nose crinkled in mild frustration, "For heaven¡¯s sake, that Rank 10 Azure Kite better be earmarked for Brother Chu. He¡¯s got a dual-element Sword Soul, after all.¡±

    A boisterousugh¡ªconfident, clear, and utterly nonchnt¡ªinterrupted their exchange, catching the attention of everyone present.

    In synchronized chaos, the crowd pulled away, forming a path.

    The collective heart of the gathering sank as they identified the neers: members of the formidable Fan Family, personalities from the Forbidden Tower, and the notable Xiao Xing''er from the Xiao Family. Unspoken sentiments flitted between the assembled, a collective understanding that the situation was teetering on a knife''s edge.

    The current rapport between the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven mirrored a kindling, ready to ignite into full-fledged war at the slightest provocation.

    Would they sh right here, right now?

    Yun Xiao cast an unobtrusive nce towards the approaching ensemble, about a hundred strong. They bore a discernible trait, akin to the namesake of the power they belonged to¡ªcold, authoritarian, and altogether indifferent to those below them.

    Leading them was a robust, middle-aged man. Golden curls cascaded down his back, and his singr, scrutinizing eye left an unshakeable impression. Memories of Elder Fan flickered through Yun Xiao¡¯s mind, but this individual, in the prime of his life, was an entity of boundless energy. He moved with a leonine grace, each step a statement of regality, suppressing the entirety of the field with his mere presence.

    "The Fan Family Head!" Murmurs punctuated the tense atmosphere, barely audible yet resonating like a hushed promation.

    Beyond Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower, genuine power in the vast Sea of Swords was wielded by the Sword Cultivator Families. Not like the Ye Family of Azure Spirit, but authentic ancient lineages in the Sea of Swords, tracing their history through countless generations!

    Together, these families shaped the destiny of the Sea of Swords, pivotal forces bncing the sprawling, martial tides. Their allegiances, fraught and fluid, danced upon the edges of ancient des and timeless loyalty.

    In the sumptuous expanse, beyond the acimed leader of the Fan Family, two youths carved out a particr curiosity among the onlookers.

    To the left of the Fan Patriarch stood a young man, whose stature soared a good two heads above his contemporaries. His white-golden sword robe, opulent and regal, belied an underlying ferocity akin to that of a contained beast.

    Conversely, to the right, a young woman in a sumptuous red and ck gown stood, her demeanor a contrast of icy aloofness and sultry allure. Her eyes, rich almonds, enchanted the surrounding gazes, each motion delicately bnced between gentle charm and unbridled strength.

    ¡°These two, they¡¯re Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower,¡± Ning Yan whispered to Yun Xiao, a prudent warning underpinning her soft voice. "Their prowess inbat far outstrips that of Holy Son Chu."

    ¡°Like Ning Jing?¡± Yun Xiao asked, his eyebrows lifting subtly in intrigue.

    Indeed, they''d reached the Perfect Origin Core Realm, akin to cultivating the Divine Sea Realm four times over, while Yun Xiao himself had only achieved such a feat once.

    ¡°Yes. Among the Forbidden Tower¡¯s Heaven Chosen, they stand tall,¡± Ning Yan affirmed with measured indifference. ¡°Thedy, Xiao Xing''er, is betrothed to Lin Chen, niece to Xiao Yu. The gentleman, Fan Jian, son of the Fan Patriarch, heir to the revered Fan Family.¡±

    Yun Xiao mused, ¡°The Fan Family, progeny of Fan Jing? Can a descendent from the Sea of Swords nobility be a Heaven Chosen in the Forbidden Tower?¡± It appeared Ye Tiance''s wife belonged to this family, likely from a lesser branch.

    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Ning Yan responded, an air of academia about her. ¡°Our Ning Family too was once part of that noble lineage, prior to being seamlessly absorbed by Sword Heaven. The Fan family teeters on the brink of entering the Forbidden Tower.¡±

    Curiosityced Yun Xiao¡¯s voice, ¡°Why didn¡¯t Elder Fan dispatch Fan Jian to the Northern Wastnds then?¡±

    Ning Yan smirked, ¡°Fan Jian exited his seclusion just today. His ascent to the Perfect Origin Core Realm is a recent triumph.¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡±

    Unexpectedly, amid their deration of war, the ostensibly conflicted forces of Sword Heaven and Forbidden Tower greeted one another as oldrades reunited.

    Ning Que, Lin Chen, and their cohort bypassed Yun Xiao and Ning Yan, adopting warmly receptive mien as they approached their once adversaries.

    ¡°Patriarch Fan, it¡¯s been an eternity,¡± Ning Que¡¯s voice warmed the air.

    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you, Patriarch Ning,¡± Fan Patriarch responded, his voice genuine, as they embraced, smiles unstinting.

    A public disy of unity unfolded as Lin Chen and Xiao Xing''er, within everyone¡¯s purview, tenderly joined hands.

    ¡°Jing¡¯er, shall we visit the Spirit Treasure Walk for a drink tonight, if we both seed in obtaining a Rank Six Azure Kite today?¡± Fan Jian asked, his brutish facade crumbling into soft warmth.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get through the challenge first,¡± Ning Jing deflected, her eyes averting ever so slightly.

    Fan Jian nodded. ¡°Agreed. Here¡¯s to hoping we both find sess.¡± His eyes lingered on the woman before him, ¡°You promised me a chance if I reached the Perfect Origin Core Realm...¡±

    ¡°The challenge, first,¡± Ning Jing persisted.

    He nodded, his eyes scanning the Azure Kite Sea, confidence undeterred.

    Lin Lin''s voice cut through, ¡°Brother Chu didn¡¯t make it?¡±

    ¡°He''s been odd ofte,¡± Fan Jian chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Lin Lin, I¡¯ll tell him you missed him when we return.¡±

    She grinned, ¡°Actually, tell him I want to punch him.¡± Although her father forbade their meetings, an incidental encounter in a public ce couldn¡¯t be avoided, could it?

    Yun Xiao, as he observed this rendezvous of seemingly well-matched couples, felt an involuntary shock roll through him. ¡°Damn. I¡¯ve wandered into a den of thieves,¡± he whispered, his voice barely audible.

    Sword Heaven and Forbidden Tower¡ªan alliance formed through matrimonial convenance. Yun Xiao¡¯s arrival and the deration of war between these two forces brewed a tempest of hidden resentment.

    "Even though the two are apparently in a state of war, these guys are acting chummy in public. It''s basically a p to the Sword Lord''s face, and one of the people doing the pping is his own son!" Yun Xiao mused. He nced at Lin Chen being openly affectionate with his fianc¨¦e, Xiao Xing''er. These people were clearly expressing their discontent with Lin Qingfeng through their actions!

    The elders who¡¯d refrained from attending the Sword Homage Ceremony, and the present behavior of Ning Que, were undoubtedly traversing the path of rebellion.

    As for the younger generation, Ning Bei and the other two kneeling at the Ancestral Sword Hall harbored nightly visions of killing Yun Xiao.

    It was a dire situation indeed.

    Ning Yan''s eyes smoldered, a tempest of frustration and fury. ¡°That Lin Chen, I can''t believe him!¡± she spat in disbelief. ¡°He''s really going to disrespect his own father like that? Brother Feng must be fuming!¡±

    And then, Fan Jian and Xiao Xing''er, the Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower,id their gaze upon Yun Xiao, their eyes reflecting pools of dark intentions.

    ¡°He''s thinking about challenging the Azure Kite?¡± Fan Jian¡¯s voice dipped, a cavern of hidden animosity opening within his words.

    Lin Lin, with an icy calmness enveloping her voice, shared, ¡°My dad made sure Ning Bei went easy on him. So, he''s basically getting the Rank 10 Azure Kite for free.¡±

    Xiao Xing''er¡¯s eyes executed anguid roll, ¡°Along the way, nobody thought to carve him up a little?¡±

    Lin Chen offered a matter-of-fact retort, ¡°Quite a few tried. But Ning Yan¡¯s guarding him, and no strong-enough contender stepped forth.¡±

    Lin Chen would have leapt at the chance to strike, if not for the invisible chains of paternal fear. For none from the Sword Heaven dared move a muscle, a collective, unspoken agreement hanging heavy in the air.

    Fan Jian dered, ¡°What a useless bunch. Looks like we from the Forbidden Tower have to dirty our own hands.¡±

    ¡°See if there¡¯s a chance inside the Azure Kite Sea! We''re all here right now. If you act and we don¡¯t intervene, I fear my dad might unleash his fury upon us,¡± Lin Chen cautioned, ncing at his sister Lin Lin.

    ¡°Alright. We act within the Azure Kite Sea,¡± Xiao Xing''er tenderly replied.

    Fan Jian, confident, assured his aplices, ¡°Our primary objective is the Rank Six Azure Kite. Hisbat ability doesn¡¯t even surpass Chu Yan''s. It¡¯ll be a mere flick of the wrist!¡±

    Ning Jing nodded, a certain weariness shadowing her eyes as she looked toward Ning Yan, ¡°Auntie... sigh!¡± She was utterly bewildered! How did family matters get to this point?

    ¡°The Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Tower!¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s actually here!¡±

    The Azure Kite Street, once abuzz with muted conversations and veiled threats, burst into a cacophony of whispers and exmations, as the audience found a new focus for their spection and awe.

 Chapter 090 - Top Tier Seed of Creation!

    <h4>Chapter 090 - Top Tier Seed of Creation!</h4>

    "The Holy Maiden advances to the Spirit Treasure Walk!"

    Sword Cultivators parted ways, etching a pathway through their midst, their eyes reflecting a silent reverence that danced with curious excitement. The Spirit Treasure Walk, stoic and regal, pierced the sky as the zenith of Azure Kite Street. It wasn¡¯t merely a building; it was the pulse of the vibrant heart of the Sea of Swords, the cornerstone of the Spirit Treasure Walk¡¯s might.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s heart fluttered, a quivering leaf in the gentle breeze, at the utterance of "Forbidden Tower¡¯s Holy Maiden". Instinctually, his gaze waltzed toward the direction of the murmur.

    Beneath a crowd of watchful eyes, a young girl draped in a snow-white dress emerged.

    "So, so white," Yun Xiao whispered to himself.

    The girl¡¯s attire was a vision of unsullied purity; even the pearls that adorned it glimmered a pristine white. Below the elegant skirt, her tender neck, soft skin, and yful legs shone, possessing the gentle glow of high-quality jade.

    A waterfall of raven hair offered a mesmerizing contrast amidst the dazzling white, enchanting the onlookers with an unspoken enchantment. However, her face remained a secret.

    A mask clung to it¡ªa white tiger mask. It was pallid, adorned with sulking ck stripes, exuding an aura of solitude intertwined withtent brutality. Beneath, her eyes, shrouded by a mischievous mist, concealed her emotions and intentions, rendering her gaze an inscrutable enigma.

    "Curious, isn¡¯t it?" Yun Xiao mused, feeling an intriguing dichotomy pulsing from her.

    Her aura, form, and physique whispered of delicate vitality and charming grace akin to a celestial maiden, yet the mask told a different story¡ªone of formidable, lurking danger!

    A mere nce stirred an uneasy thrill in the hearts of those who dared look.

    "Hmm?" Blue Star nestled in Yun Xiao¡¯s arms vibrated, its eyes flickering with a peculiar excitement as it sped his flesh, "We¡¯re onto something big again!"

    "Hey, easy there!" Yun Xiao cast a scolding gaze downward, "How do you figure we''ve hit the jackpot this time?"

    "A Seed of Creation, a super high quality one!" The Blue Star announced theatrically.

    "And she¡¯s a maternal one, at that!" Red Moon chimed in, scarcely containing its exhration.

    "Seed of Creation? What grade?" Yun Xiao¡¯s voice wavered between curiosity and caution, his eyes deepening into a well of intense thought. The existence of another Seed of Creation within the Sea of Swords was beyond his calctions.

    "Not too sure, but definitely no less potent than Ye Guying''s," Blue Star postted.

    "Not less than the Nine Dragons Dantian?" A tremor danced through Yun Xiao¡¯s voice.

    The Nine Dragons Dantian, responsible for sculpting Ye Guying into a legend of the Sea of Swords, was nothing to scoff at.

    "That would indeed be quite a score," he pondered.

    "Hold on, something isn¡¯t right!" Blue Star¡¯s voice hushed, an uneasy furrow marring its brow.

    "What seems out of ce to you?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "Her power, it¡¯s been sealed! That¡¯s muddling my perception of the details of her Seed of Creation. In her essence, she is mighty!" Blue Star revealed, concern knitting its brows.

    "Strong?" Yun Xiao paused, "How strong are we talking?"

    "Out of our depth. Way out," Blue Star spat, disgruntled.

    Yun Xiao recollected that even after the Sword Soul test in the Sword Heaven, they hadn¡¯t imed to be out of their depth.

    "Her power¡¯s been considerably sealed. If it was an external sealing, that''s one thing; her typicalbat power isn¡¯t particrly horrific. But if she¡¯s sealed herself, watch out. She¡¯s a ticking time bomb," Blue Star warned, teeth gritted.

    "Got it. As long as she isn¡¯t after me, she doesn¡¯t bother me." Yun Xiao nodded, somewhat nonchntly.

    After all, who said the Seed of Creation was a must-have? The greatest Seeds were those of the Six Ancestral Gods, and they had taken the lion''s share!

    While Yun Xiao and the little ck beastmunicated telepathically, the girl in white, cloaked in a tapestry of admiration, had already made her way into the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    "Lost in thought, are we?" Ning Yan, yful and gentle, tapped Yun Xiao¡¯s shoulder, her voice dancing with a teasing lilt.

    Yun Xiao''s words drifted softly into the quiet, ¡°Not really.¡±

    Ning Yan, cheeks round with a teasing grin,ughed gently. ¡°You know, no one''s actually seen her face. She might not even be pretty.¡±

    A nod from Yun Xiao, as casual as the breeze, yet his brows knitted a fleeting trace of confusion. "Strange, why is there such a gap between the Holy Son and the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Tower?¡±

    Ning Yan, with a ndestine allure, leaned closer, her whisper mingling with a subtle, enchanting scent that belied the two decades distancing her from youth.

    "I''ll tell you a secret. Holy Son Chu is rumored to be the illegitimate son of the Tower Lord of the Forbidden Tower. His present father, the Chu Family patriarch, is nothing special¡ªa leader wearing someone else''s hat, rising in the Sea of Swords!" Ning Yan confided, her face an odd mixture of mischief and mystery.

    Yun Xiao¡¯sugh, unrestrained and warm, scattered into the air. The character of Holy Son Chu took on new, delightfully warped dimensions in his mind. An illegitimate son. A secret kept from polite society. Was his Holy Son title a salve for such wounds?

    ¡°You''ve squashed this Holy Son of the Forbidden Tower under your boot. You don''t need to worry about his tall tales. The more people he deceives, the grimmer his downfall will be. But that girl named Chen Xi, you should be cautious of her!¡± Ning Yan''s voice carried a note of genuine concern, a mother hen clucking a warning.

    ¡°Chen Xi?¡± Yun Xiao mused aloud, eyes wandering toward the Spirit Treasure Walk. Was that her name?

    ¡°Yep! Rumor has it, she¡¯s only fifteen but shrouded in a mystery as thick as morning fog. Apart from the Tower Lord, not a soul knows where she came from. Quiet as a church mouse, normally, yet she stirred the Tower Heart legacy and they say she¡¯s sharp and ruthless in her dealings!¡± Ning Yan imparted, eyes glittering with the telling of the tale.

    ¡°Ruthless?¡± Yun Xiao cocked an eyebrow; a discrepancy in his understanding apparent.

    ¡°Wanna know what makes her astonishing?¡± Ning Yan queried.

    ¡°No clue.¡±

    ¡°The Tower Lord had a blood son, once the top prodigy of the Forbidden Tower. He threw a disrespectful word her way, and she chopped him down right in front of the Tower Lord, retaining her holy title all the while,¡± Ning Yan shared, her voice dropping into a hushed solemnity.

    ¡°A tricky one,¡± Yun Xiao acknowledged, nodding in silent appreciation of the revtion.

    ¡°But, silver lining, she might not necessarily stand against you on the Forbidden Tower''s ns,¡± Ning Yan spoke, softer now.

    ¡°Fair.¡± Yun Xiao nodded.

    Then, pointing ahead with an urgent yet graceful gesture, she dered, ¡°The Azure Kite Sea¡¯s open!¡±

    Finishing her words, she gazed at Yun Xiao with eyes that shimmered like stars in the night, "Stay safe!"

    ¡°Don¡¯t you go caring too much, it¡¯ll muddle my healthy disdain for you,¡± Yun Xiao responded, the corner of his lip teasing upward.

    ¡°You''re overthinking, Yun Xiao. I¡¯m just looking to use you a tad, garner a smidge more attention from my Brother Feng,¡± Ning Yan retorted, breezy as a dandelion in the wind.

    ¡°No notions of making amends for twenty-two years of neglect?¡± Yun Xiao asked, a spark of mischief in his eyes.

    ¡°Out of the question!¡± she bit back, the words steely and final.

    ¡°Pushing forty, you¡¯re aging, might be time to take a step back,¡± he joked lightly, ¡°Apologize to my Senior Sister Zhao, perhaps make good on these twenty-two years, and maybe I¡¯d find you slightly less insufferable.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the one aging!¡± Ning Yan spat, fluster rippling through her.

    Without another nce her way, Yun Xiao turned, striding purposefully toward the Azure Kite Sea, leading the charge. His bold advance spoke louder than words, a silent rebuke to the prodigies and Heaven Chosen of Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower.

    ¡°I¡¯m really old, am I? Heavens, no, only thirty-eight...¡± Ning Yan whispered, her hand unconsciously caressing her cheek.

    Fifteen, sixteen, ah, how quickly the sands of time slipped through our fingers.

    In a world where youth had taken the stage, Ning Yan found her mind wandering toward Zhao Xuanran.

    "She¡¯s twenty-two and him just sixteen?" she mused aloud, brows knitted together in amused contemtion. ¡°Well, ain¡¯t this a curious case of the old cow and tender grass! They say a woman older by three clings to gold, but oh, she''s hauling two sturdy bricks.¡±

    The propriety of those metaphorical gold bricks remained a mystery...

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Spirit Treasure Walk pierced the heavens, its pinnacle hosting the esteemed Divine Dawn Pavillion. This exclusive enve opened its opulent doors only to the cr¨¨me de cr¨¨me of the Sea of Swords, an homage to the supreme Empress of Divine Dawn, reigning unchallenged in the Heavenly Realm.

    A panorama of the Azure Kite Sea spread beneath it, a spectacle of mists, vibrant birds, and ethereal beauty generously offered to its privileged spectators.

    Within the serene Divine Dawn Pavilion, an expansive balcony protruded, gifting the room with an unfiltered view of the oceanic ballet below. There, a girl, pale and delicate as white jade, lounged amidst cascading ck locks, her gaze absorbed by the enchanting chaos of the sea¡¯s clouds and azure avians.

    "Pomelo" she whispered, fingers light upon her white tiger mask, voice as sweet as summer honeb, a gentle touch causing the mask to morph and stir, bing a petite, ck-striped white tiger nestlingfortably into her arms.

    Through the swirling white mist shrouding her face, the merest hint of exquisite beauty bled through.

    Pomelo, the diminutive tigress,zily stretched, snuggling closer, a soft hum of contentment purring from her.

    Gently caressing Pomelo''s fur, the girl¡¯s mist-wreathed eyes stayed locked on the horizon.

    ¡°Lil Xi, you struck it rich,¡± Pomelo announced abruptly.

    ¡°Oh?¡± The girl¡¯s response dripped with sweetness yet tinged with an isting cold,

    ¡°Yang Void, that¡¯s the one?¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Across the Azure Kite Sea, a collective breath was held.

    Yun Xiao soared, his sword carving through clouds in the shadow of the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    Along Azure Kite Street, Sword Cultivators in their tens of thousands congregated in every tavern and inn, sipping on delicate teas and hearty ales, eyes enchanted by the vivacious scene before them.

    Representatives from Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower arrived, respectfully positioning themselves a level below the ethereal Divine Dawn Pavilion. Dignitaries like Ning Que, Lin Chen, and Patriarch Fan tactfully maintained their distance, cautious not to disturb the sanctuary of the Forbidden Tower¡¯s Holy Maiden.

    Even Lin Lin, the cherished princess of Sword Heaven, respectfully averted her gaze upon meeting Chen Xi, an unspoken reverence hanging in the air.

    Lin Chen, locking eyes with a distant, white-robed figure in the sea below, conversed quietly with Patriarch Fan.

    ¡°You, Ye Guying, and Chen Xi are off to the Heavenly Realm in about ten days, isn''t that right?¡± Patriarch Fan asked with a smile.

    Lin Chen¡¯s response was firm, a subtle urgency in his eyes. ¡°Yes. And before we leave, I hope that man meets his end and the Sea of Swords remains unharmed.¡±

    Patriarch Fan offered aforting chuckle, ¡°Worry not, my young friend. Even if he escapes fate today, when Ye Guying emerges in three days, his doom is certain. You bear the honor of the Sea of Swords to battle; we shan¡¯t allow any fear to linger in your wake.¡±

    "Right right!" Ning Que, a grin on his face, nodded in agreement.

    "Among us three, I fear I''m the one trailing behind!" Lin Chen cast a backward nce at his own sword sheath, an admission drawn forth with a measure of resignation.

    "You''ve already surpassed the elders of Sword Heaven," Ning Que offered quietly, his voice a gentle caress amidst the thrumming winds. "It¡¯s just that those two Heaven Chosen in the Forbidden Tower... they¡¯ve always been somewhat unnerving."

    "Lin Chen, you''ve always been a talented kid." Patriarch Fan nodded. "At the very least, you possess a wisdom that eludes your father."

    Lin Chen blinked, caught between interpreting the remark as a slypliment towards him or a subtle affront to his father. But then, the murmurings throughout the Sea of Swords had long branded his father a madman, so perhaps, rity wasn¡¯t particrly crucial in that moment.

    "He doesn¡¯t have what it takes, does he?" Lin Lin¡¯s sneer cut through the atmosphere, her finger pointing usingly toward a white-clothed youth standing precariously on the water''s edge, pausing at the Rank Three Azure Kite instead of advancing courageously into the tumultuous sea.

    Within the walls of Clear Dust Pavilion, a collective disapproving shake of the head swept through those gathered, an unspoken agreement swirling in the air.

    "I told him to start there, the damn fool," Ning Yan muttered under her breath, her eyes flickering with concealed frustration yet a modicum of understanding.

    She held an objective perspective, recognizing that while Yun Xiao might not have matched Ye Guying''s dazzling prowess or the raw power of Chen Xi, he was by no means as mediocre as Lin Lin ndered.

    "Who among us in Sword Heaven can make the Ten-Step Scale resonate twelve times, and carve words on a Sword Princeling¡¯s face in the Mid Origin Core Realm?" Ning Yan mused. There was something about Yun Xiao, atent power, perhaps, that persuaded her to back him.

    "If he manages to seize a Rank Ten Azure Kite today, the pressure on Brother Feng might just lessen. Plenty in Sword Heaven may be forced to reassess Yun Xiao¡¯s worth," she whispered a prayer into the winds, her eyes mirroring the hopes of the many who dared not voice their desires.

    Despite her struggles with Zhao Jianxing and Zhao Xuanran, Yun Xiao''s triumphs against Fan Jing and his suppression of Chu Yan thawed the ice of her disdain. Admiration began to flower where resentment once took root.

    So there she stood, the only genuine well-wisher in a sea of concealed daggers, silently beckoning for Yun Xiao''s rise amid the ethereal cries of the Azure Kites.

    "The Rank Three Azure Kite! It has begun..."

    Within the mysterious depths of the Azure Kite Sea, Yun Xiao lifted his eyes, confronting a cerulean bird suspended before him, its wings an impressive three-feet span.

    "Sword energy, demon bone, and runes... is this a demon bone crafted through alchemy?" Yun Xiao noted quietly, the eerie demonic aura wafting from the Azure Kite rendering it seemingly sentient and unyieldingly fixated upon him¡ªor more precisely, upon the Heaven Burial Sword Soul nestled in his hand.

    "To absorb an Azure Kite requires subduing it with the sword, fully enveloping it within the de. Even a mere tenth left outside could enable its escape, the process of which could harm the Sword Soul, and damage the soul," the instructions from Ning Yan echoed within his consciousness.

    Yun Xiao, despite always finding her slightly distasteful, felt a grudging respect bloom in his chest upon finding others even more so upon entering the Sea of Swords.

    "In the entire Azure Kite Sea, about ten thousand Rank One Azure Kites linger," his thoughts continued, recalling Ning Yan''s words, "Even a Rank One Azure Kite is no easy task to absorb."

    When the Azure Kites descended, there were thirty thousand Rank One Azure Kites, and after all these years, ten thousand remained. Evidently, most Sword Cultivators in the Sea of Swords were unable to handle even a Rank One Azure Kite.

    ¡°Rank Three Azure Kites are even fewer, now only around a hundred remaining. Ning Jing, Fan Jian, Xiao Xing''er, and other Sword Princelings and Heaven Chosen have absorbed Rank Three Azure Kites so far.¡±

    ¡°Rank Six Azure Kites are down to thirty! On the side of Sword Heaven, only Lin Chen has sessfully challenged one.¡±

    Adding the four Rank Ten Azure Kites, that''s all that remains in the Azure Kite Sea.

    Meanwhile, the young Sword Cultivators who entered alongside Yun Xiao, numbering a few hundred, were mostly challenging Rank One Azure Kites.

    Only a handful dared to confront a Rank Three Azure Kite!

    ¡°Ning Yan said that it took Ning Jing a full day and night to absorb a Rank Three Azure Kite?¡±

    The genuine challenge and prolonged duration of the task provided ample entertainment for the patrons of the restaurants and teahouses on Azure Kite Street. As they sipped their wine and engaged in lively chats, their eyes asionally nced toward the ongoing spectacle.

    Yun Xiao suddenly fixated his eyes upon a Rank Three Azure Kite before him.

    The shadow of a pensive thought furrowed Yun Xiao¡¯s brow. ¡°Just how long will it take to refine you?¡± he mused.

    As his Heaven Burial Sword Soul unsheathed, it thrust directly through the kite''s open beak, navigating sharply into its belly. The bird¡¯s body convulsed, a thick, eerie smoke permeating from its trembling feathers.

    A resonant hum permeated the air as the kite screeched, its wings beating frenziedly against the unseen terror. The desperate p of its wings painted a tragic disy, yet it was in vain.

    A hiss sliced through the atmosphere, and the Rank Three Azure Kite disintegrated into a somber blue shadow, abruptly devoured by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    It all transpired in a mere heartbeat.

    Yun Xiao himself blinked, almost missing the moment where the kite with its modest three-foot wingspan, was engulfed by the lotus at the center of his Sword Soul.

    The lotus stirred slightly, its metaphorical lips smacking with a veiled dissatisfaction. It hungered for more.

    "Uhh." Yun Xiao nced at the remaining Rank Three Azure Kites. Now there were fewer than a hundred left. His eyes twinkled with an almost gleeful darkness as he grinned. ¡°No reason to hold back, yeah?¡±

    "Pleasantries? Hell no! They all want you dead, right? Then consume all the resources of their descendants!" Blue Star cackled with a viinous glee that resonated with unbridled malevolence.

    Yun Xiao merely nodded, a gleam of resolve flickering within his gaze. ¡°A feast it is, then.¡±

    From that moment, a tangible silence enveloped the entirety of the Sea of Swords. Upon Azure Kite Street, amidst the legions of Sword Cultivators, a silence so profound reigned, as if the entire world held its breath in the wake of the impending feast...

 Chapter 091 - You Read People Well

    <h4>Chapter 091 - You Read People Well</h4>

    "Am I seeing things?" Ning Yan muttered. She was perched alone in a cozy, secluded corner. Her delicate cheek gracefully rested against her palm, as she peered out of the window. A calm wash of the Azure Kite Sea filled her vision before it was pierced by a sudden, unexpected fright.

    A bird, an Azure Kite of the third rank, fluttered before being swallowed up, as if charmed into the Sword Soul of the gentle white-d youth with an almost mischievous ease.

    "I''ve been stressed, but I didn''t think it''d cost me my sight," she mused, bitterness knitting her brow ever so slightly. Yet, the ambiance of the ce curiously mirrored her solitude; an eerie, undisturbed quiet held the air.

    Swiveling her gaze, she scanned faces¡ªNing Que, Patriarch Fan, Lin Chen, and several others¡ªall frozen, wine cups hovering mid-lift, as if time itself yed a jest upon them. Their eyes were locked, unblinking, on the youth basking in the cloudy sea, faces not just stoic but statuesque.

    ¡°Brother, did he... did he just cheat again?" Lin Lin whispered, a haze of confusion over her.

    Lin Chen''s voice scraped through his throat, "It''s impossible to cheat in the Azure Kite Sea."

    The ghost of a begrudging respect shadowed Ning Que¡¯s voice, "That Star grade Sword Soul of his... it''s truly something else."

    Lin Chen shook his head, a sigh deting him, "If he manages to snag a Rank 10 Azure Kite today, Father will sing his praises and elevate him to Ye Guying¡¯s stature."

    Lin Lin, her lips pursed in a mock pout, whimsically uttered a prayer, "Seems like the heavens above and earth below blesses Yun Xiao, who somehow bumbles into sess."

    The taverns of Azure Kite Street, after that brief hush, erupted into a cacophony of life, a myriad of voices chiming in excitement and disbelief, each patron¡¯s gaze hooked on the serene figure of the white-clothed youth.

    "He might not match the Sword Princelings or the Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower in battle," a murmured approval whispered through the room, "but the sheer terror invoked by his Sword Soul''s grade can''t be ignored!"

    "Aye, but the foundation¡¯s the realm!" another countered, "The Sword Soul just gives it a little nudge."

    "With acking realm, he''ll only be shattering the Flying Swords of mere footnotes in history..."

    Yun Xiao, without uttering a word, had captured the stage, sidelining Fan Jian, Xiao Xing''er, Ning Jing, and their ilk with his understated spectacle.

    "He''s making for the central region!"

    "Challenging the Rank 10 Azure Kite directly?!"

    Ripples of disbelief wafted through the azure kite street, a collective held breath hanging in the air.

    Sure enough, as Yun Xiao realized he could effortlessly secure a Rank Three Azure Kite, why would he tarry? Resources in the Sea of Swords? Naturally, they had to be seized at once!

    "If you¡¯re going to grab, grab the finest!" Yun Xiao smirked. And so, the Rank 10 Azure Kite became his target, and toward the profound depths of the Azure Kite Sea, he propelled his Sovereign Sword.

    "Only one Rank Three Azure Kite, and I reached thirty-threeyers of Sword Aura!"

    As for the Azure Kite''s secondary effect¡ªenhancing the Sword Soul grade¡ªYun Xiao felt a mildness in its effect. The Heaven Burial Sword Soul was a world embryo. So, though the effects of absorbing the Rank Three Azure Kite were minimal, it was still there. It was just that the improvement couldn¡¯t be ssified within worldly grades!

    Nevertheless, Heaven Burial assuredly grew stronger and fiercer!

    "The Sea of Swords¡¯ best Sword Inheritance Stone is only Rank Four. So, there''s no way to actually properly test my Sword Soul. I''d just end up blowing another Sword Inheritance Stone up again."

    So, the outsiders were merely privy to witness the augmentation of Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Aurayers.

    Soon enough, Yun Xiao had infiltrated the central region of the Azure Kite Sea.

    "Damn it, he slipped through!" Fan Jian, emerging from behind, his eyes seething with lethal intentions, grumbled. Upon entering the Azure Kite Sea, a sea of clouds enveloped everything, and by the time he located Yun Xiao, it was toote.

    "That scoundrel from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect sure is good at running," Xiao Xing''er murmured, her gaze an undisturbed, icy pond, even as they all stood enveloped in a mystic fog, obscuring more than the view from those outside it.

    "Let¡¯s focus on the Rank Six Azure Kite first, shall we? That¡¯s the true test for us," Ning Jing suggested gently from behind, her voice threading through the quiet.

    "Hey, are you trying to defend him or something?" Xiao Xing''er raised an eyebrow, a subtle edge to her voice.

    Ning Jing merely pressed her lips together, choosing silence as her ally, and turned towards a Rank Six Azure Kite without furtherment.

    "Enough of this! If things go sideways, Ye Guying can handle it in three days when he emerges. This is, after all, a significant vendetta," Fan Jian interjected, his shoulders lifting in a careless shrug.

    "I just fear he won¡¯t survive three days. Maybe he''ll perish at the hands of some insignificant thugs. An indistinct death like that is unsatisfying," Xiao Xing''er observed.

    With that, they shifted their focus, and their challenge against the Rank Six Azure Kites began.

    From their standpoint, enshrouded in the fog, sharp cries of azure birds filled the space, the shouting from Azure Kite Street just barely audible.

    "Rank 10 Azure Kite!" Deep within the fog, Yun Xiao''s eyes lifted, locking onto the massive avian form, crafted entirely of swirling, azure sword energy.

    Its wings, spanning a mighty ten feet, fluttered ominously. The feathers, a lethal dance of sword energy, encased a core of azure liquid¡ªa vile mix of demon bone marrow and unidentified entities. Runes crawled across the avian form, injecting it with a fearsome aura.

    "Five Rank 10 Azure Kites have descended so far, and Ye Guying has absorbed only one?"

    It spoke to the colossal challenge of absorbing and inheriting the power of the Rank 10 Azure Kite.

    Yet, Yun Xiao, armed with his Rank Three Azure Kite experience and fortified by a mountainous faith, didn¡¯t afford this Rank 10 Azure Kite a second thought.

    "Open wide now!" As he approached the bird, he ruthlessly thrust his azure sword into its beak, before the eyes of the countless onlookers.

    The Rank 10 Azure Kite, its eyes ame with wild ferocity, screamed a shrill cry, wings convulsing, and sent mighty sword energy cascading, dispelling the surrounding fog with a tremendous uproar. It was an audacious show of resistance against Yun Xiao.

    "Come to me!" With an impassive face, Yun Xiao¡¯s sword prated further, channeling the Sword Soul¡¯s power into the kite¡¯s core.

    A deep hum resonated! A drastic change crossed the Rank 10 Azure Kite¡¯s expression'' its fierce cries twisting into screams, wings beating frenziedly, inducing a far mightier current!

    "Thinking of escaping? Not on my watch!" Yun Xiao distinctly sensed that before his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, all Azure Kites were equal! It was simply a question ofrger or smaller prey. A Rank 10 Azure Kite, a sizeable feast, was doubtlessly more fulfilling.

    A dreadful spectacle unfolded!

    The Rank 10 Azure Kite shrieked and wrestled, but the Heaven Burial Sword Soul forcefully drew it in, consuming it whole. Its gleaming sword energy, marrow, and runes were almost instantly absorbed into Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul!

    Just like that, a Rank 10 Azure Kite vanished in the blink of an eye! When the young man leisurely retracted his Sword Soul, Azure Kite Street virtually detonated.

    <i>RUMBLE RUMBLE! </i>A collective gasp surged as tens of thousands of people rose from their feet!

    For a brief second, it was impossible to discern their cries. All that was visible were wide eyes, practically bulging from their sockets, suspended in the open air, perilously close to plummeting.

    "Ten! Ten..." Numerous folks stuttered, their tongues seemingly tied in knots, mouths scalding, able only to voice this singr digit, the remainder of their thought tragically abandoned.

    In an instant, an uproarious crash sounded as countless cups and teacups plummeted to their doom upon tables and floor alike. Each collision punctuated the collective gasp that shuddered through the room.

    "Ah! He did it! The Rank 10 Azure Kite, in a sh!" cried a voice, teetering on the brink of madness and disbelief.

    With a single stroke, Yun Xiao did not merely pierce the formidable Rank 10 Azure Kite, he had skewered the very fabric of their understanding of the world.

    A hushed whisper emerged from the crowd, "It ain¡¯t just that he downed the Azure Kite. It''s that it happened in a heartbeat."

    "Ye Guying battled for an eternity inparison!"

    Generations of Sword Cultivators from the Sea of Swords, be theyuded Heaven Chosen, Holy Sons, or Sword Princelings, had faced the Rank 10 Azure Kite, writhing in struggles time and time again, only to embrace failure in the end.

    The minds of thousands buzzed, a hive of disbelief and wonder.

    "Yun Xiao!" Ning Yan leapt upright, fingers white as they clenched the window ledge, her excitement almost physically tearing it away. "Have you ever seen anything so miraculous?"

    Twisting around, a radiant grin unfolded across her features, meeting the eyes of the entire table behind her, where every individual stood, wiping disbelief from their eyes as they directed solemn salutes towards Yun Xiao.

    Veins threaded through the whites of each pair of eyes.

    ¡°Did he cheat? This was a Rank 10 Azure Kite...¡± Lin Lin¡¯s voice trailed into the air, absent and perplexed.

    s, no ear lent itself to her mumbles. The potent significance of Yun Xiao''s feat sunk in, rendering her words insignificant.

    ¡°A Star grade Sword Soul is this fearsome, is it?¡± Ning Que uttered, his voice a trembling leaf in a timid breeze.

    ¡°This man, after bing an adversary of the Forbidden Tower, cannot be allowed to roam free, to grow,¡± Patriarch Fan dered, his voice a graveled whisper.

    Ning Que''s eyes lingered on his sister.

    Ning Yan chuckled, pointing to her own eyes, yfully inquiring, "Were your eyes open for that, brother?"

    ¡°Hmph.¡± The wine cup in Ning Que¡¯s grasp crumbled under the pressure. ¡°The Sword Lord will find a way to defend Yun Xiao, as always.¡±

    The task of extinguishing the boy''s life had ratcheted up a notch in difficulty.

    ¡°The ones who wish him dead, their resolve will now be unshakeable. How¡¯s he to live through these three days?¡± Lin Chen¡¯s words escaped in a chilled, solitary mumble.

    ¡°The moment he steps out of the Azure Kite Sea, the assassins will multiply,¡± Lin Lin sneered, ice etching her words.

    Lin Chen grunted, ¡°With the inheritance nowplete, he should be the first to emerge.¡±

    ¡°Brother, did you see how manyyers of Sword Aura he has now?¡± Lin Lin, envy coiling in her words, whispered, ¡°Such a waste, a Rank 10 Azure Kite on a person marked for death...¡±

    It was ament that echoed into the hearts of those present.

    ¡°Fifty-fiveyers of Sword Aura!¡± And then, as though the heavens themselves resonated with the feat, a booming promation thundered through Azure Kite Street.

    ¡°He¡¯s almost matched our father!¡± Lin Chen and Lin Lin¡¯s eyes locked, jealousy festering within. The legitimate prodigies of the Sea of Swords, and yet their Sword Aurayers were leagues from fifty!

    ¡°This ranking is enough to im a spot within the top five of the entire Sea of Swords!¡± The gathered masses teetered on the brink of pandemonium.

    During this peaceful epoch between the Sea of Swords and the Grand Wastnds, due to restrictions from the Grand Wastnds Pact and a scarcity of demon bones, the Sword Aurayers within the Sea of Swords were marginally lower than during the tumultuous periods of yesteryear.

    ¡°A sixteen-year-old, buoyed by a Rank 10 Azure Kite, has catapulted his Sword Aurayers directly into the top five of the Sea of Swords!¡±

    The collective sentiment wove envy and awe into a palpable tapestry.

    ¡°Understand this, each incrementalyer of Sword Aura, especially at these heights, is a monumental task that only bes progressively more daunting!¡±

    From thirty-three, he skyrocketed to fifty-five!

    ¡°This Rank 10 Azure Kite, was it really that efficacious? What an incredible nourishing entity!¡± Yun Xiao, gazing upon the horrifying Sword Soul within his grasp, his eyes flickered with an extraordinary light.

    Blue Star¡¯s eyes shimmered, light dancing within them. ¡°So?¡±

    A chuckle escaped from Yun Xiao''s lips. ¡°There¡¯s a flock of over twenty thousand souls outside. They believe I''vepleted the inheritance, and expect me to scamper back to Sword Heaven to save my own neck!¡±

    ¡°Creator, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re thinking of dining on thest three Rank 10 Azure Kites, are you?¡± A sly, teasing grin spread across Blue Star¡¯s face.

    Yun Xiao shook his head, a mix of amused and mock indignation in his voice. ¡°Can you believe this? Doubting my virtue? These creatures are amonwealth of the Sea of Swords, a boon for the progeny of our kind. If I devour them, future generations will see not one more Rank 10 Azure Kite!¡±

    ¡°Finish thest three and your Sword Aura would skyrocket, crowning you number one across the Sea of Swords!¡± Blue Star¡¯s smirk bore a yfully malevolent edge. ¡°You¡¯re exactly that kind of person, I wager.¡±

    For a moment, Yun Xiao stalled, then, with a sly, conceding grin, he admitted, ¡°You read people well.¡±

    Blue Star could only offer a vacant stare in response.

    And with that, Yun Xiao, undeterred, resumed his striding.

    ¡°He¡¯s emerging!¡± A collective murmur swept through the bustling crowd of Azure Kite Street.

    Unexpectedly, Yun Xiao diverted not outward, but veered left, a move unforeseen.

    ¡°What is he up tp?¡± Tens of thousands palpitated in concert, eyes glued unblinkingly upon Yun Xiao.

    Suddenly, another Rank 10 Azure Kite materialized before him!

    The creature, strikingly anthropomorphic, upon recognizing Yun Xiao, pivoted, wings pping frantically in attempted escape. Its squawks of despair seemingly cried, ¡°Stay away!¡±

    ¡°Running, are we?¡± With deft swiftness, Yun Xiao charged, alighting upon the back of the Rank 10 Azure Kite, and thrust his sword through it!

    A chilling wail, born of sheer terror, sliced through the heavens from the Kite.

    ¡°Ah! My Rank 10 Azure Kite!¡± On Azure Kite Street, a sea of individuals stood agape, their hearts bleeding unspoken grief, as though witnessing Yun Xiao absconding with their beloved.

    And just like that, another Rank 10 Azure Kite ceased to be.

 Chapter 092 - Where Creator Marches, Not a Blade of Grass Grows!

    <h4>Chapter 092 - Where Creator Marches, Not a de of Grass Grows!</h4>

    "He actually consumed two Rank 10 Azure Kites!" The disbelief permeated through the crowd, hovering amidst the exasperated yells that shed with the tranquil mist of the Sea of Swords. "He eradicated two future prodigies!"

    Along the Azure Kite Street, throats scorched with anger unleashed thunderous roars, tonsils trembling amidst vehement outbursts.

    "Only two?" Yun Xiao chuckled beneath his breath, smirking amidst the fervor of the enraged crowd. Their irate yells pierced through the air, reaching him even in the deepest abyss of the Sea of Swords, marking the chaos he''d invoked.

    Swiftness was key! Promptly, he found himself atop a third Rank 10 Azure Kite, his sword gleaming, thrusting forward¡ªa potent, swift stab!

    The collective "Ahhhhh!" echoed as if Yun Xiao¡¯s sword had impaled the masses themselves, their anguished screams intertwining with the Azure Kite''s final cry, a symphony that made the clouds above the sea quiver.

    The third Rank 10 Azure Kite was rapidly absorbed into his sword.

    A sea of despondent voices washed over the scene. "Just one Rank 10 Azure Kite left! The Sea of Swords is devoid of hope now..."

    With fierce pursuit, Yun Xiao tracked down the final Rank 10 Azure Kite, his sword dancing through the air once more.

    "Sorry, folks, but it¡¯s gone now!" Yun Xiaoughed, an unrestrained mirth mingling with an air of nonchnt malice.

    As his voice melted into the thick air, thest Rank 10 Azure Kite screamed its demise, swallowed whole by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    Dissatisfaction bubbled within Yun Xiao! Within the confines of the Sea of Swords, aside from Ye Guying and Holy Son Chu, he hadn¡¯t really wronged anyone. Why did they stand against him? Why were Flying Swords, devoid of mercy, assailing him at every step? Although others hadn¡¯t outright bared their swords, their eyes couldn''t have been more frigid?

    "I might have upset the Forbidden Tower, but what¡¯s that to you? Why this rush to kiss ass?" His words, an open challenge, hovered defiantly amidst the tumultuous sea.

    A preemptive strike in the Sea of Swords?

    Merely a smokescreen! He understood, scrutinizing the crowd of Sword Heaven folks. "Would they trulymence war with the Forbidden Tower just for me?" It was transparent¡ªthey only cared all about their own gain!

    So. absorbing all four Rank 10 Azure Kites before this multitude, Yun Xiao''s heart swelled with triumphant pleasure! Witnessing the despair that enveloped the faces of countless spectators, his satisfaction burgeoned further.

    "Kissing ass to the Forbidden Tower, are we? Fine! I''ve plundered what was meant for your descendants!" Yun Xiao smirked.

    Now, the central region of the Azure Kite Seay barren and forsaken.

    Yun Xiao, casting his eyes downward, proimed, "Eightyyers of Sword Aura! Standing supreme atop the Sea of Swords!"

    The quality of his Heaven Burial Sword Soul was superior, emanating a formidable eightyyers of azure Sword Aura, sharp and fearsomely robust. To the masses, Yun Xiao was likened to a child, albeit wielding arge, frighteningly sharp cleaver.

    "From this moment forward," Yun Xiao dered with a chillingly calm smile, "whoever dares to cross swords with me, wees death!"

    His eightyyers of Sword Aura whirled through Azure Kite Avenue like a fierce storm, repeatedly caressing the realm with a deadly embrace.

    The crowd stood, petrified in stupefied silence!

    Aloft the Spirit Treasure Walk, notables such as Ning Que, Patriarch Fan, and the Lin sibling duo were stricken, their faces ckened in defeat, an unnerving stillness entombing their luxurious chambers, hands beneath sleeves still trembling in unrestrained fury.

    "What a freak!" Ning Yan finally exhaled, her words lost amidst the haunting silence.

    The ruckus along Azure Kite Street was nothing shy of an uproar, stemming from the aftermath of a most unusual feast. Yun Xiao, refining four Rank 10 Azure Kites in a heartbeat. When Ye Guying had once secured a single one of these mythical creatures, the Sea of Swords had been alight with celebrations, drenched in euphoria. But now, with Yun Xiao''s daring consumption, it bathed instead in a cascading waterfall of tears. No longer would young talents of the Sea of Swords slumber sweetly with dreams of Rank 10 Azure Kites.

    A voice lingered over the stirred crowd, an audible whisper barely cutting through the disconcerted murmurs. "If he walks out of that Azure Kite Sea now and someone kills him, isn''t that still a huge loss for us anyway?¡±

    Another chimed in, tinged with reluctant awe, "That Sword Aura of his... it''s soared over even the Forbidden Tower Lord by a solid twentyyers...¡±

    A palpable, stifling silence nketed the gathering, the hearts of many silently traversing a peculiar transformation. Yun Xiao, in their eyes, had morphed into a walking treasury¡ªvaluable yet dangerously vtile. He aroused irritation just by being, yet snuffing him out would be an act marred by regret.

    Lin Lin''s eyes spilled over, her voice scarcely above a whisper, quivering with grief. "Isn¡¯t there some way, any way, to make him cough those Azure Kites back up?¡±

    Lin Chen¡¯s eyes, wild with a feral glow, shot back, ¡°They¡¯re gone, Lin Lin!¡± His dreams, tightly wound around those Rank 10 Azure Kites for years on end, nowy shattered, dissipated into nothingness. Whirling around, his intention to plunge into the ensuing chaos was stark.

    Lin Chen, his voice a gritty whisper, resolve emanating from every word, confided, "He vited the sanctity of the Azure Kites. Rather than have him butchered by a disorderly, nameless mob, I shall obliterate him myself, to salvage the honor of Sword Heaven!¡±

    Ning Que''s grip tightened on his arm, his voice firm yet veiled with understanding, ¡°No, Lin Chen. Your father, his wrath would be unbridled. You are his son; you cannot p his face in disgrace.¡±

    Lin Chen, desperate, urged, ¡°Uncle Ning, let me go. He¡¯s emerging from the Azure Kite Sea this very moment!¡±

    But Ning Yan, a gentle smile gracing her features, calmly corrected, ¡°No, no, Lin Chen. He hasn¡¯t yet emerged.¡± A leisurely finger pointed towards the perplexing scene.

    Lin Chen, along with everyone else, stood frozen, an array of stunned faces painting the scene. Why hadn¡¯t he emerged yet? What, in the realms of heaven and earth, was the boy up to?

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In an entirely different turmoil, within the Rank Six Azure Kite zone, Fan Jian was on the verge of his own historical moment.

    ¡°It¡¯s nearly a sess!¡± he growled, a ferocious joy seeping through his words, every beat of his heart throbbing with unbridled exhration. Ny-nine percent!

    That Rank Six Azure Kite was almostpletely enveloped by his Sword Soul, leaving just a fragment of a tail feather flirting outside its dominion.

    Fan Jian, his voice a vibrant timbre of anticipation and restrained excitement, mused, ¡°Ah, with this Rank Six Azure Kite in hand, my Sword Soul might very well evolve into Mid grade! Coupled with this breakthrough to the Perfect Origin Core Realm, Ning Que will surely agree towards the union of Ning Jing and myself!¡±

    His heart roared with tion as he thought of it. He had lingered in this waiting, for what felt an eternity! ¡°Today, today shall mark my ascension!¡± He clenched his Sword Soul, eyes shutting in concentration, attuning himself to the Azure Kite within, ready to meld it thoroughly with his being. And then, it happened!

    ¡°Ah? Wait, what? WHAT! Why is this kite wandering off outwardly?¡± Fan Jian stood, a statue painted with perplexed shock. His eyes snapped open, a shimmer of shock scintiting in their depths.

    There, a youth, shrouded in pallid robes, stood with a tranquil smile caressing his visage, his gaze affixed on Fan Jian. Thetter¡¯s eyes,den with disbelief and confusion, traveled downward only to stiffen upon witnessing the Sword Soul¡ªa tangible extension of one''s martial spirit¡ªtenderly, almost mockingly, perched upon a lone feather of the formidable Azure Kite.

    Fan Jian blinked, his mind teetering on the verge of iprehension.

    ¡°What in the¡ª?¡±

    How dare Yun Xiao stand before him, unabashed and poised for mischief? What was his game?

    "Thanks, Dumbass! Dumb Fan? Fantard? I really like the ring of that!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s voice, amused and taunting, pierced the tense air.

    ¡°What the f¡ª!¡± Fan Jian¡¯s eyes flickered, refocusing with abrupt urgency. To his horror, the Rank Six Azure Kite, which had been almost entirely assimted, was smoothly extracted by Yun Xiao¡¯s azure Sword Soul.

    Even the Rank Six Azure Kite paused, taken aback, before a mncholy cry escaped it, and it was engulfed by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    ¡°Ah?¡± Fan Jian barely eked out, his voice a mere wisp of breath, as the surreal scene pummeled his understanding of reality.

    ¡°My Azure Kite... where?¡± His voice, a tremulous whisper, quivered as he gazed, eyes vacant yet edged with burgeoning madness, at his now barren sword.

    ¡°Too bad, so sad. I ate it.¡± Yun Xiao''s words dripped with sardonic sorrow.

    ¡°You¡ª¡± Rage, twisted and acidic, surged within Fan Jian, his veins pulsating with repressed fury.

    With a casual chuckle, Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul swayed and then, with an exhrating sh, it swept through the stagnant air¡ª

    <i>KLANG!</i>

    ¡°Oh, Gods! The pain!¡± A searing agony engulfed Fan Jian as his Sword Soul, now marred with intertwining fractures, shuddered violently.

    ¡°My Sword Soul!¡± His mind descended into a vacuous abyss, barely registering Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul, shrouded with its densely woven, lethal Sword Aura. Even with insufficient magic power, the mere graze of such Sword Aura against his own Sword Soul would spell his doom.

    ¡°AHH!¡± Screaming, Fan Jian plummeted through the epassing mist, his anguished wails swallowed by the dark waters into which he cascaded.

    The Azure Kite was no more, and his Sword Soul was shattered. Submerged in the abyssal depths, Fan Jian, eyes seething with a frenzied rage, writhed amidst impotent fury.

    ¡°Here¡¯s hoping your Forbidden Tower stocks Sword Tempering Pills, hm?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s voice, now a distant echo, seemed almost an afterthought as his attention was usurped by another Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower: Xiao Xing''er, the betrothed of Lin Chen.

    Simr to Xiao Yu, she seemed a pir of grace and magnanimity but beneath that veneer lurked a snide and haughty specter, ever-present and ever-poised to strike. Her Rank Six Azure Kite too was almost ny percent assimted.

    When the woman¡¯s eyes fell upon Yun Xiao, an unwavering, icy resolve crystallized in her gaze. ¡°Listen here,¡± she dered, her words slicing through the air like a winter chill, ¡°interfering with someone¡¯s absorption of the Azure Kite breaches the sternws of the Forbidden Tower. The penalty is death!¡±

    Yun Xiao chuckled, his demeanor unfazed and eerily serene. ¡°Are you touched in the head? A Death Decree from the Forbidden Tower already hangs over me. Do you think yourws scare me?¡±

    A pause hitched Xiao Xing''er''s breath, suspended in a brief trance of incredulity. Indeed, everyone feared the iron rules of the Forbidden Tower. Everyone but Yun Xiao.

    ¡°You¡ª!¡± Xiao Xing''er cried out.

    But before the words fully left her mouth, Yun Xiao, hisugh cool and disdainful, mocked, ¡°Seeking to inherit the Azure Kite, are we? Wishful thinking!¡± He extended his Sword Soul, piercing the remaining external segment of the Rank Six Azure Kite.

    ¡°What on earth¡ª¡± Xiao Xing''er¡¯s eyes, wide in baffled disbelief, tracked her nearly-secured Rank Six Azure Kite as Yun Xiao ruthlessly yanked it from her, absorbing it whole.

    A ng echoed through the space as Yun Xiao, with a sleek, reverse sh, struck her sword. Xiao Xing''er, pallid and emitting a spray of blood, copsed into the water with a ssh, swallowing mouthfuls of the liquid in her stupefaction.

    ¡°Xing''er!¡± Lin Chen, atop the Spirit Treasure Walk, felt the bloody threads in his eyes expand threefold.

    ¡°Sister Xing''er...¡± Lin Lin, retreating three steps, missed her chair and crumpled to the ground, her heart enshrouded in despair.

    ¡°This is madness!¡± Patriach Fan, hurling his cup with a vehement motion, his eyes sparking with golden ire,manded, ¡°To the entrance of the Azure Kite Sea!¡±

    With the clouds above cascading a potent drama, who possessed the leisure to bear witness? His son''s fate was veiled in obscurity!

    ¡°That weakling trash with his low cultivation... He''s taking advantage of the Sword Aurayers he gained from absorbing the Azure Kites to ambush others! How despicable...!" Lin Lin, her voice serrated with fury, couldn¡¯t fathom the existence of such a viin.

    Just as her words wilted in the charged air, shrieks of rm erupted from Azure Kite Street.

    ¡°What¡¯s he doing?¡±

    Chaos ensued!

    ¡°Only thirty Rank Six Azure Kites remain. Does he intend to consume them all?¡±

    Terrified screams punctured the tense atmosphere.

    ¡°My Rank Six Azure Kite?¡± Lin Lin felt thunderstruck, her future endeavors hanging by a thread. Scrambling to her feet, she gazed, wide-eyed, as Yun Xiao careened through the Azure Kite Sea, one sword stroke per Rank Six Azure Kite, a gluttonous beast in human form, his avarice touching zeniths!

    He spared not a single one. This was a maelstrom of greed, wrath, and foolishness! In the shell of the Creator Immortal, there resided the wrathful spirit of a mortal emperor.

    If a semnce of fairness lingered in the Sea of Swords, Yun Xiao might have harbored restraint.

    Everyone was discontented?

    ¡°Let¡¯s make it utterly so!¡±

    Even Ning Yan, witnessing this spectacle, was rendered ck-jawed. ¡°Yun Xiao, don¡¯t!¡±

    s, her plea sailed into the void, forever out of Yun Xiao¡¯s reach.

    Ning Yan wasn''t worried about Yun Xiao''s safety, despite the absence of the Sword Lord, who undoubtedly lingered nearby. Her concern was tethered to those Rank Six Azure Kites. If Yun Xiao devoured them all, what hope remained for her descendants?

    Wait a moment. "I only have one heir, and she''s in Azure Spirit..." A flicker of apathy crossed her thoughts. "Damn, this has nothing to do with me."

    Yun Xiao continued to devour. Each sh, each exquisite creature, dissolved into nothingness by Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword. The tragic demise of the Rank Six Azure Kites invoked a mncholy that overshadowed the elusive Rank 10 Azure Kites; because the dreams of many a man were tethered to the tangible, not the unattainable. He swallowed their dreams, each one gliding smoothly down his voracious maw.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, heaven will not share its sky with you!¡± One man bellowed, hands outstretched, desperation etching lines across his face.

    ¡°Ah, for mercy¡¯s sake! Leave just one,¡± pleaded another, his voice a ragged whisper woven with a string of despondency.

    Yun Xiao, relentless, left none of their dreams intact, save for one kite that fluttered perilously on Ning Jing¡¯s sword, ny-five percent of its essence already consumed.

    Her eyes, having witnessed the decimation of hopes, beheld Yun Xiao with a surrendering despair as he turned his eyes on her prize.

    "s...¡± Ning Jing exhaled, her voice a quiet resignation.

    "You''re a good sort," Yun Xiao remarked, ¡°silent, offering me fairness.¡± And then, oddly, he drifted past her, veering toward the Rank Three Azure Kites.

    Ning Jing lingered, frozen in puzzled relief.

    "I''ve nyyers of Sword Aura," Yun Xiao mused aloud. "My sword is unmatched in hardness and sharpness now. Shall we stop absorbing, perhaps?"

    "If you absorbed them all, you might crack a hundred," Blue Star chuckled, a wicked glint flickering across his eyes. ¡°Why stop now?¡±

    Yun Xiao''s gaze lifted. The entrance to the Azure Kite Sea swarmed with furious Sword Cultivators, restrained only by a formidable array set by the Heavenly Realm. Absent this celestial intervention, Yun Xiao¡¯s fate would have been sealed, his form dissected by a thousand swords.

    "Come, Yun Xiao! Meet your demise!¡± The voices echoed, anger billowing in their wake.

    ¡°A waste! A heavenly waste!¡± Another voice cried,menting the devoured divine creatures.

    The Azure Kites, gifts of the Heavenly Realm, were indeed celestial.

    Upon witnessing the wrathful standstill, Yun Xiao''s lips curved into a frosty, sardonic smile. ¡°Well then, don¡¯t fault me for whates next!¡±

    He stepped lightly upon the surface of the sea, sword propelling him into the Rank Three Azure Kites, those that numbered just under a hundred.

    Yun Xiao absorbed them with a harrowing efficiency, his power draining each heavenly being, one by one, as he traversed through them.

    "Yun Xiao!" Patriarch Fan, surrounded by individuals from the Forbidden Tower, bellowed from beyond the barrier, a ferocious timbre in his voice. "Defile the Azure Kites further, and you will perish without a grave to mark your passing!"

    ¡°Ah! Such scrumptious birds!¡± Yun Xiao called, a yful malignancy in his voice. "Fancy a bite? Oh, toote, ha!"

    The outside erupted in chaos.

    The Sword Cultivators, fury incarnate, unleashed their sword souls upon the array, repulsed with violent rebounds, blood painting their forms in defeat.

    Yun Xiao, with his poised defiance, drew the ire of the masses in the Sea of Swords. Lin Chen and Ning Que, along with a cadre of Sword Heaven¡¯s Sword Cultivators, warned in an icy tone, ¡°Yun Xiao, the Azure Kites are a divine gift from the heavens to the myriad generations of the Sea of Swords! By seizing the fortune meant for the descendants of the Sea of Swords, your transgressions are unforgivable! Not even the Sword Lord can shield you from retribution!¡±

    But Yun Xiao, garbed in his unblemished white robes,ughed off their fury. ¡°Wrong! The heavens never dered that these Azure Kites couldn¡¯t be inherited by a single person, did they? Can I not match ten thousand generations of the Sea of Swords¡¯ progeny alone?¡± In the face of tens of thousands of enraged, frustrated gazes, he absorbed all of the Rank Three Azure Kites entirely, unabashed and audacious in his mockery.

    Screams of agony pierced through the Sea of Swords. Every individual felt as though their insides were being torn apart.

    ¡°There are no more high rank Azure Kites in the Sea of Swords! Future prodigies will neverpare to those of the present!¡± Wails of despair filled the air.

    Rank Three Azure Kites and above were considered high rank¡ªa privilege only for the gifted. The Rank One Azure Kites, albeit numbering ten thousand or so and being a top-tiermoner''s asset, now seemed a pettyfort.

    It was a day of collective mourning for all the Sword Cultivators as they gazed, stunned and bloodshot, at the young man in white.

    Lin Lin pped herself, anguish painted on her face. ¡°I''ve just absorbed a Rank One Azure Kite, and haven¡¯t even started on a Rank Three Azure Kite! Now there¡¯s nothing left...¡± Even though she¡¯d mocked repeatedly, in reality, this young man had driven her to the brink.

    ¡°Yun Xiao,e forth and meet your death!¡± The roar of tens of thousands filled the air.

    Yun Xiao retorted, "Already angered? Don¡¯t rush; there¡¯s more toe!¡±

    A collective shiver ran down the spines of the tens of thousands present. More? What else did he intend to do? And then, realization dawned upon them.

    ¡°NO!!!¡± In the instant when countless screams erupted, Yun Xiao¡¯s Flying Sword aimed at thest ten thousand Rank One Azure Kites. Upon his approach, these azure birds, as if meeting the harbinger of death, screeched and scattered in frantic escape.

    ¡°Damn it! If you dare allow Creator to enter, from today forth, there will be no more Azure Kite Sea in this world!¡± Blue Star cackled wildly.

    ¡°When Creator marches, not a single de of grass shall grow!¡± Red Moon eximed in exhration.

 Chapter 093 - One Suppressing Ten Thousand!

    <h4>Chapter 093 - One Suppressing Ten Thousand!</h4>

    In an instant, the air quivered with a faint, fleeting symphony of whistles. The azure Flying Sword, in a delicate and decisive dance, navigated through flocks of sword energy birds. Each spectral creature, modestly adorned with a wingspan of a mere foot, flutterednguorously through the heavens, bearing a humble resemnce to anymonce bird. Yet, as Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul intersected their forms, they disintegrated, relinquishing their essence to the void between heaven and earth.

    A subtle, sustained hum lingered where the sword carved through the atmosphere, signaling the end of the Azure Kites.

    As the ten thousand onlookers bore witness, a collective shudder rippled through the crowd. Their expressions morphed into masks of disbelief as the azure sword twirled and darted through the clouds, shearing through the flock of Azure Kites with an effortless cruelty.

    "No¡ª!"

    "The Azure Kites... descendants of the Sea of Swords'' various powers..."

    Their eradication was thorough, leaving naught but a ghost of what had once been.

    The crowd, eyes aze with rage and disbelief, observed the youth in white. His gentle smile resembled a devil''s mask as he devoured Azure Kite after Azure Kite with a terrifying efficacy. These entities, for the most part unattainable by the younger generation of the Sea of Swords, were swallowed up one by one.

    Some eyes dripped rage made manifest, others spilled forth tears, and more than a few souls wept openly amidst the carnage.

    "Stop, please!"

    "We beg you, spare just a few to remember them by!"

    Yun Xiao''s visage remained unblemished by emotion, inscrutable amidst the chaos of their pleas.

    "Leave any behind?" Yun Xiao''s voice slid into the silence.

    It was not a question, but a condemnation.

    ¡°Not a chance. Not a single Azure Kite will be spared,¡± he dered.

    In the blink of an eye, rage twisted into silence, then wilted into reluctant tears, as the Azure Kite Sea¡ªonce a spectacle of mystery and allure¡ªwas relegated to the annals of history.

    When Yun Xiao¡¯s sword tore an almost-formed Azure Kite from the Sword Soul of a Divine Sea Realm disciple from the Forbidden Tower, the vast cloudscape was barren, void of the spectral avian grace that once danced there. An utter emptiness reigned.

    "We''ve pierced the threshold of three digits," Yun Xiao observed, eyes caressing the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand, a lethal elegance emanating from its form, and atst, a satisfied smile stered his features. "One-hundredyer Sword Aura. How does that stand?¡±

    "Middling," Blue Star observed dryly.

    Yun Xiao sighed in annoyance and exasperation. How was that middling! Sixtyyers was revered as the pinnacle in the Sea of Swords. In two days, he ascended rapidly, gorging on Azure Kites, and shattered the hundred barrier with his Sword Aura.

    As for the ten thousand people outside, their stoic, shell-shocked expressions sang a different tune. This was far, far from <i>middling</i>.

    ¡°Still, even now, influenced by Holy Son Chu¡¯s stupid lies, they likely see me as a mere fluke with sword treasures in hand.¡± After Yun Xiao''s entrance to the Sea of Swords, his only demonstration of power had been the recent Sword Homage Ceremony, which was held in private, with Ning Bei and the rest of the trio still kneeling in front of the Ancestral Sword Hall.

    ¡°Holy Son Chu, your vain attempt to save face unwittingly became my boon. My gratitude is sincere.¡±

    ¡°Why are you thanking him?¡± Blue Star asked, puzzlement threading his words.

    ¡°If he hadn¡¯t spread the lie about how I couldn''t take a single sword stroke from him, would these ten thousand people dare to scorn like this? How else could I consume this Azure Kite Sea without a shred of guilt?¡± Yun Xiao offered a sly grin.

    ¡°If they hadn''t scorned you, would you have practiced restraint?¡± Blue Star replied, rolling its eyes.

    ¡°Well, not particrly. What needs to be devoured will be devoured,¡± Yun Xiao concluded.

    ¡°Then, what difference does it make?¡± Blue Star replied.

    In the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Sword Soul talent was hailed as the zenith of potential. Yet here, amidst the Sea of Swords, even a Star grade Sword Soul grade paled inparison to the allure of Ye Guying¡¯s Nine Dragons Dantian.

    Yun Xiao chuckled. ¡°So, having only the Sword Soul talent andcking the Dao Seed Talent means I can¡¯t outpace Ye Guying?¡± If anyone from Azure Spirit were still present here, the tales of Yun Xiao pulverizing an entire sect in six days would have drifted into their ears. Sadly, all of the Azure Spirit Sword Cultivators had descended to the mortal realm, hunting demons.

    Blue Star''s forehead creased slightly. ¡°So, how do you n to stroll out of this pickle?¡±

    Yun Xiao, ncing upwards, witnessed the ten thousand people unleashing their Sword Souls just beyond the gentle embrace of the Azure Kite Sea. The ten thousand Flying Swords twirled and howled, a symphony of impending doom, all directed singrly towards him, awaiting his step from the tranquil sea.

    Their hearts bled for bygone legacies, whispers now lost to eternity.

    ¡°Easy there,¡± Yun Xiao whispered, serenity emanating from him. Rising upon his Sovereign Sword, man and sword moved harmoniously towards the entrance of the Azure Kite Sea.

    Metallic songs of des shed and nged, an unsettling choir emanating from ten thousand Flying Swords.

    This was the Sea of Swords.

    Countless sword, targeting one man.

    Fear? Not a trace fluttered within Yun Xiao. Adorned in white, his hair a wild cascade, he faced the ten thousand pair of malevolent, blood-red eyes, bing an embodiment of fearless defiance amidst suppression.

    ¡°From today forward, you¡¯re the notorious sinner of the Sea of Swords, stealing blessings from generations toe. Your actions are inexcusable, and you deserve a thousand deaths!¡± Lin Chen directed his pale Sword Soul towards Yun Xiao.

    As the son of the Sword Lord of Sword Heaven, Lin Chen¡¯s words were potent, indirectly indicating to the masses that even the Sword Lord¡¯s progeny disdained Yun Xiao. Clearly, Sword Heaven harbored but one crazed protector for Yun Xiao!

    ¡°My actions are inexcusable? Deserve death? Not this whole bit again! People never learn.¡± Yun Xiao stood nonchntly, hands sped behind him, voluntarily propelling his Sovereign Sword out of the Azure Kite Sea, eyes unwavering, sword cutting through the clouds.

    ¡°Meet your end!¡± Lin Chen¡¯s voice cut through the tension, resolute.

    As his words faded, an uprising of over ten thousand Flying Swords surged, a rain of malevolent metal intending to grind Yun Xiao into oblivion.

    Yun Xiao simply stood, immovable.

    ¡°Who dares touch the heir to my Sword Heaven?!¡± Out of serene nothingness, an uproar erupted, and a figure with flowing white hair materialized before Yun Xiao, sweeping across with a white Sword Soul that enveloped fifty-nineyers of Sword Aura.

    <i>HUM! </i>A pallid crescent of sword energy swept out, generating a tempest of sword-energized wind, suppressing all within its trajectory.

    The world detonated around Yun Xiao; towers crumbling, earth splitting, swords recoiling, men retreating, bodies scattering.

    ¡°This is the might of one sword!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s pupils constricted.

    ¡°Sword Lord!¡± Recognizing the white-haired Sword Cultivator, the folks of Sword Heaven stammered in reverence.

    ¡°Father...¡± Lin Chen and Lin Lin stared at the Sword Lord, their eyes dimming and hearts sinking with paternal disappointment.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you father me! I¡¯ve no children who sabotage from within!¡± The Sword Lord, fury personified, roared. ¡°The mighty Sword Cultivators of Sword Heaven, conspiring against one of their own, wagging tails at external foes! You¡¯ve utterly disgraced the spirit of our Sword Heaven ancestors!¡± With his booming reprimand, Lin Chen and Lin Lin were shattered, while those like Ning Que behind them wore masks of grim eptance.

    A wave of astonishment rippled through the expansive crowd under the boundless Sea of Swords.

    Lin Qingfeng, the Sword Lord, cast a piercing nce across the tens thousand Sword Cultivators gathered. His voice, sharp and resonant, sliced through the murmurs, addressing the assembled masses. "Yun Xiao, the Young Sword Lord of Sword Heaven, obtained all the Azure Kites fairly and squarely!" he announced. "He carved history into the annals of the Sea of Swords and is owed even more reverence than Ye Guying. And you dare belittle him because his cultivation isn¡¯t esteemed enough, treating him like ripe fruit ready to burst? Where¡¯s your sense of justice?¡±

    Mutterings flitted through the crowd, though no voice dared challenge him aloud.

    In hushed tones, they whispered among themselves. "Our fury stems from this kid devouring the Rank Ten Azure Kites and then consuming even the Rank One Azure Kites reserved for future generations!"

    But with the Sword Lord''s voice enveloping them like a tangible entity, they remained spellbound, rebuttals dying unborn on their lips.

    Lin Qingfeng, mighty in stature and spirit, lifted his sword, its aura an extension of his very being, and proimed with a bellow. "Let my words echo here and now¡ªI, Lin Qingfeng, vow to shield Yun Xiao until he reigns as the Sea of Swords'' top Sword Cultivator throughout eternity! Should you dissent, wage war upon my Sword Heaven! Unleash the might of your ns against our hallowed ground! Is your collective bullying here supposed to suggest that Sword Heaven is devoid of defenders?!¡±

    His bold promation, powerful and crystal clear, subdued every ounce of dissent present. The potent tide of sword energy washed over them all, momentarily silencing the tens of thousands on Azure Kite Street, including Patriarch Fan.

    "Brother Feng, that was magnificent!" Ning Yan¡¯s heart quivered inside her, unabashed admiration dancing in her eyes. This, indeed, was a man of Sword Heaven!

    With a smirk and gleaming eyes, the Sword Lord drawled, "Majestic Sword Cultivatorscking the guts for a singr duel, what skill is there in overpowering a lone adversary with a swarm of swords?¡± He took a generous swig of his wine, face flushing a dark rouge, his steps faltering just slightly.

    Swiveling, he pped Yun Xiao on the shoulder, vibrant enthusiasm coloring his words. "Boy, showcase your Sword Soul to me!"

    "...Alright." Yun Xiao extended his hand, and as the Heaven Burial Sword Soul appeared, its hundredyer Sword Aura immediately instilled a sharp pain in the eyes of the crowd.

    "Bravo! Splendid! Shattering one-hundredyers, you''ve uplifted the Sea of Swords'' record by thirty-eightyers! Without precedent, and assuredly without sessor! A hundredyer Sword Aura¡ªthat¡¯s a heavenly sword¡¯s gift! Unseen in our world and perhaps even capable of astonishing the Heavenly Realm''s Immortals above!" The Sword Lord, his gaze deep yet somehow unfocused, stared at Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul, continuously heaping praises upon it.

    "It''s only so-so," Yun Xiao replied, a sly grin caressing his lips. He''d known all along that the Sword Lord had been lingering nearby.

    A heartyugh echoed from the Sword Lord as he gazed first at Yun Xiao, then at Ning Yan, sighing with a kind of poignant nostalgia. "Ah! Across the vast heavens, only you two truly understand me. Come, let us go home!"

    "Brother Feng, don¡¯t carry sorrow in your heart. They are merely intimidated by the might of the Forbidden Tower and unwilling to untangle themselves from the affectionate snare of various alliances. They can onlypromise, step by step. When they witness Yun Xiao''s true, world-shaking talent someday, they will all return to your side," Ning Yan whispered, her words a gentle caress of constion.

    "If only that could be," the Sword Lord, ncing at his children who were so lost to his own struggles, sighed heavily into the silent expanse around them.

    "Let¡¯s go!" With a singr swing of his sword, he cleaved a path through the crowd, leading Yun Xiao and Ning Yan with an ostentatious swagger back towards Sword Heaven. Silencey in their wake, none daring to provoke.

    The Sea of Swords was awash with dark, surging currents.

    After the Sword Lord and Yun Xiao departed, tens of thousands of eyes, trembling, stared at the now deste Azure Kite Sea in a collective stupor.

    A realization, profound and unsettling, dawned upon them.

    "Even if Yun Xiao dies ten thousand times, the loss of the Azure Kite Sea for hundreds of generations... it can never be reversed!"

    The catastrophic news had already unfolded.

    For a moment, countless sighed in resignation, and among them, the people of the Forbidden Tower harbored undoubtedly the fiercest anger.

    Once the allotted time of the Azure Kite Sea ended and the heads of families like Patriarch Fan entered the empty sea, retrieving Fan Jian and Xiao Xing''er, they saw these two Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower, because of the ambush, nearly half of their Sword Souls were shattered, their human souls wounded, and their consciousness somewhat muddled. The people of the Forbidden Tower were seething in unabated fury.

    "Someone! Summon the leaders of the Ten Great Families of the Sea of Swords! Regarding the desecration of the Azure Kite Sea, we shall all go together to the Forbidden Tower to meet with the Tower Lord!" Patriarch Fan, his face a fearsome snarl, his tongue bloody,manded.

    The Ten Great Families! Excluding the Fan Family, which was almost considered part of the Forbidden Tower, the other nine major families were also not insignificant!

    Originally neutral between Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower, now, with the incident at the Azure Kite Sea, their interests werepromised and they were bound to support the Forbidden Tower in seeking justice for their descendants for thousands of generations.

    In truth, even Sword Heaven was theoretically on the side of Forbidden Tower and Ye Guying!

    Amongst the crowd, Ning Que found his daughter, Ning Jing.

    "My dear Ning Jing, are you alright?" Ning Que asked, his voice heavy with concern.

    "Father, I sessfully inherited the Rank Six Azure Kite, and my Sword Aura advanced by fouryers," Ning Jing responded in a bit of a daze.

    "Why didn¡¯t he shatter your hopes as well?" Ning Que stood stunned.

    "I don¡¯t know... perhaps, because the Sword Lord treated him too well, he didn¡¯t want to make things difficult for the Sword Lord?" Ning Jing replied, biting her lip.

    "The Sword Lord is blindly obstinate!" Ning Que red.

    "I think he just wants to ensure Sword Heaven¡¯s independence. It feels like if Madame Xiao continues this way, Sword Heaven will really be a vassal of Forbidden Tower," Ning Jing murmured, head bowed.

    "Who doesn¡¯t understand this reasoning? But, is there any harm in it? There isn¡¯t! None of the benefits we should have will be reduced! Only if the Sea of Swords unifies can we hope to suppress the Grand Wastnd! Do you understand? This is about the overall situation of the human race, not a struggle for individual power! Internal strife will only consume us. Only through marriage alliances, sharing blood, and mutual support can the Sea of Swords truly rise to power and protect themon people... All of you are just short-sighted!" Ning Que sighed, "Today the Azure Kite Sea is gone, and if our descendants in the Sea of Swords cannot hold on and are destroyed by the Grand Wastnd, the deaths of billions ofmon people in the future will be on the heads of the Sword Lord and Yun Xiao!"

    Ning Jing was stunned. "Really, both sides think they¡¯re right, who should I believe?"

    Mass marriage alliances! Two families bing one! There truly was no issue of who was superior or inferior¡ªthey were all inws, harmoniously united.

    "To be honest, I really don''t understand Lin Qingfeng! After the incident with your aunt and Zhao Jianxing, Lin Qingfeng actively pursued Xiao Yu, and after bing the Sword Lord, he married her with all due propriety. He was the one who opened the precedent for these alliances, and it was Xiao Yu who began arranging them for all of you! He not only didn¡¯t oppose it all along, but also encouraged you to interact with the Heaven Chosen of Forbidden Tower, didn''t he?" Ning Que was practically at his wit''s end, "Howe when Yun Xiao arrives, hepletely changes? If he really felt oppressed by Forbidden Tower, why didn¡¯t he make a peep these past twenty years?"

    Lin Chen, Lin Lin, and Ning Jing, the three young individuals, furrowed their brows deeply after hearing this.

    The pondering was palpable, like a cloud, heavy and omnipresent. Sword Heaven¡¯s unyielding integrity¡ªwhat sort of thing was that? It sure as hell didn''t exist before!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Upon their return, the Sword Lord, Yun Xiao, and Ning Yan were met not with the customary respectful bows of the courtyard, but rather, an ominous cluster of five venerable ancestors, each shrouded by a piercing, cold re, akin to the first frosts of winter nipping eagerly at autumn¡¯s heels.

    ¡°Well, well, esteemed ancestors, to what do we owe this frosty reception? Perhaps a spot of wine to warm those chilly bones?¡± the Sword Lord offered with a chuckle.

    ¡°Lin Qingfeng!¡± an ancestor, swathed in regal purple, stepped forth, his finger usingly directed, ¡°Your reckless folly! For mere personal desires, you¡¯ve tossed the grand ns of the Sea of Swords into tempest seas! You are a sinner amongst mankind!¡±

    ¡°And what, pray tell, does this grand n entail? Kowtowing to the Forbidden Tower is it, Ancestor Murong?¡± Lin Qingfeng fired back with a scoff,pletely unshaken.

    ¡°You dare speak such drivel! You dine and wine daily with the Tower Lord, yet we see no kneeling from you, do we?¡± another ancestor in grey robes chimed in.

    ¡°That, dear ancestor, is because he has yet to swallow my Sword Heaven whole! Let¡¯s see if Ye Guying rises, and whether he swallows or spits!¡± The Sword Lord sneered.

    ¡°Lin Qingfeng!¡± the ancestor in the red robe snapped, eyes ame with a mixture of anger and disdain.

    ¡°Speak, Second Uncle,¡± Lin Qingfeng said.

    ¡°From this day forth, we five decree your position as Sword Lord null and void. You shall not represent Sword Heaven! You are the Sea of Swords¡¯ transgressor, inviting a devouring pestilence, ravaging the roots of our future!¡± The red-robed ancestor''s trembling finger pointed, usations veiled not only in his words but also within the quiver of his voice.

    <i>SMACK! </i>As swift as a striking serpent, Lin Qingfeng¡¯s form blurred and reappeared, his hand smartly connecting with the ancestor¡¯s cheek. Reeling, the red-robed ancestor somersaulted backward, his world spinning into a disoriented dance.

    ¡°Second Uncle, perhaps your perpetual kneeling has rendered your legs impotent? Rest then, and take a break from your baseless usations and pointless decrees! Who do you think you are, to revoke my position as Sword Lord?¡± The Sword Lord spat.

    ¡°Lin Qingfeng! Your actions scream of insolence and rebellion! To raise your hand against an elder!¡± a ck-robed ancestor admonished, words nearly choking on his own fury.

    <i>SMACK! </i>Again, the Sword Lord¡¯s palm made swift acquaintance with the ancestor''s cheek, scolding, ¡°Ancestor Ning, perhaps silence would serve you well!¡±

    ¡°Father...¡± Ning Yan, with eyes wide and heart pounding, hurried to the fallen ancestor, hands gently helping him upright. Peering down, a silent gasp escaped her lips. Amidst the dirty three lustrous golden teeth, defeated soldiers upon an unexpected battlefield.

 Chapter 094 - Seven to Three Odds

    <h4>Chapter 094 - Seven to Three Odds</h4>

    "Let go of me you shameless woman!" Ancestor Ning''s veins bulged at his temples, his fury a tangible thing in the air as his rended on Ning Yan. A scandal, that''s what she was. It was widely known that she had been the one to usher Yun Xiao back to these grounds. "You... you''re at fault for the destruction of the Azure Kite Sea too!" His voice shook with rage, yet Ning Yan offered nothing but silence in return.

    The Sword Lord, uninterested in the burgeoning drama, interjected coldly, ¡°Anyone else have grievances to voice? I¡¯ve not yet had my fill of this petty bickering. Come, bring yourints to the fore!¡±

    The ancestors sealed their lips, locking away any further objections within them.

    ¡°Let¡¯s proceed!¡± With a nonchnt air, the Sword Lord, nked by Ning Yan and Yun Xiao, sauntered into the Sword Heaven, his every stepnguid yet purposeful, utterly unaffected by the stunned onlookers.

    ¡°Lin Qingfeng, your position of Sword Lord is but a hollow title,¡± the ancestor in red robes hissed through clenched teeth, blood lingering on his lips. ¡°No one in Sword Heaven stands with you! What worth does your reign hold? When the Forbidden Tower Lord leads the Ten Great Families here to exact their vengeance, will anyone stand in your defense?¡±

    Before the echoes of his defiance could fade, the Sword Lord reappeared before the red-robed ancestor.

    The ancestor recoiled, eyes wide with a mixture of defiance and dread. ¡°What more do you want?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve still got a bone to pick, Second Uncle?¡± Without warning, the Sword Lord¡¯s hand flicked forward, sending the ancestor tumbling to the ground, a stream of blood trickling from his nose.

    The crowd, hundreds of Sword Heaven¡¯s residents, could only watch, eyes reddening but tongues held, anger simmering beneath a forced calm.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the entrance to the Wind Listening Pavilion, a seemingly casual conversation unfolded.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, take these vials of Sword Heart Spring,¡± The Sword Lord said, extending three jade vials with an easy grace.

    ¡°Sword Heart Spring? What might that be?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s voice held a note of curiosity.

    ¡°An expired Sword Heart, no longer lethal. Ground down and refined with herbs into a liquid. It has the power to nurture a Sword Soul. Yours surged quite substantially today; I worry it might have caused some foundational damage. Let the Sword Heart Springs rejuvenate your Sword Soul and nourish your physical sword bone,¡± the Sword Lord exined, a chuckle vibrating deep in his throat.

    ¡°Got it. That Sword Aura did burrow into the bone; left my flesh aching quite a bit,¡± Yun Xiao, epting the vials, offered a nod of gratitude, ¡°Thank you, Sword Lord.¡±

    ¡°No need for thanks between fellow men on the path of the sword.¡± A gentle pat on Yun Xiao''s shoulder apanied the Sword Lord''s sigh, ¡°So many in this world, yet so few true confidantes. It''s a weary thing, indeed.¡±

    Yun Xiao, holding the vials of Sword Heart Spring, reassured with a gentle smile, ¡°One true ally is sufficient. Fear not, Sword Lord. Your gamble on me will not be in vain. Sword Heaven will have a future, and so shall our people.¡±

    Heartyughter spilled from the Sword Lord, mingling with another swig of his wine.

    ¡°Tell me, Sword Lord, whose Sword Heart was used for this?¡± asked Yun Xiao, slightly curious. He understood that only those with great daring could leave a Sword Heart behind as they faced death.

    ¡°My father¡¯s!¡± the Sword Lord replied.

    ¡°Admirable!¡± Yun Xiao eximed.

    ¡°Eh, it¡¯s adequate, a tradition of Sword Heaven. When it''s my turn, I¡¯ll endure the pain and leave one for the descendants. Gives them something to remember, though it need not necessarily be used,¡± the Sword Lord exined casually.

    Yun Xiao, gazing at the Sword Heart Spring in his hand, noticed its power had indeed ebbed away, leaving only its medicinal properties.

    ¡°Three vials, to be used over three days; you can use the first today,¡± the Sword Lord said, his voice carrying a paternal undertone.

    ¡°Three days? That''s precisely when Ye Guying will emerge from his seclusion,¡± noted Yun Xiao, his voice barely above a whisper.

    ¡°No matter, I¡¯ll guard you. You have ample time to spar leisurely with him,¡± the Sword Lord dered, a grandiose air about him.

    Spar leisurely, indeed.

    A gentle smile brushed Yun Xiao¡¯s lips, a quiet serenity nestling in the curve of his restraint.

    The Sword Lord, a man who whispered wisdom through the echoes of a sharp wind, spoke with earnest. ¡°Yun Xiao, your Sword Soul, your instinct with the sword, they defy the heavens themselves. Yet, your Dao Seed Talent and your cultivation,cks behind. So, train at your own pace, my boy. Your potential is lofty, and impatience casts a shadow upon such heights.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Yun Xiao nodded withposed humility.

    With a practiced ease, the Sword Lord unveiled a parchment, its pages worn yet imbued with an ageless dignity. ¡°This is a Star grade sword technique, gifted through the millennia by Sword Heaven itself. Peruse it tonight, and tomorrow, we delve into its depths together.¡±

    A flicker of recollection danced in Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes at the mention of the Star grade technique, memories of the Sword Lord¡¯s single stroke, which swept aside myriad des in cascading defeat.

    This technique, which soared majestically above the Azure Dragon Squall, boasted an undeniable potency, the sheer thickness of the sword manual dwarfing that of the First Sword of Azure Spirit fivefold!

    Upon epting it, Yun Xiao marveled at the unexpected weight in his grasp.

    ¡°Stay in the Wind Listening Pavilion. Stifle your wandering and immerse yourself in the sword,¡± counseled the Sword Lord, lifting his wine sk, eyebrow quirked whimsically. ¡°Fancy a sip?¡±

    ¡°No more wine for me. The sword beckons!¡± Yun Xiao chuckled.

    With a mirthful twinkle, the Sword Lord admonished, ¡°Ensure you absorb the Sword Heart Spring,d. Its healing properties wane with time.¡±

    ¡°Will do!¡± Yun Xiao cast a nce at the Sword Heart Spring. ¡°Tell me, Sword Lord, safeguarding me... Does it burden you?¡±

    ¡°Oh, the weight is quite formidable!¡± the Sword Lord conceded with a light-heartedness that belied the sincerity of his words.

    ¡°Can you bear it?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Bear it I must, for the sake of Sword Heaven¡¯s tomorrow... No more words for now, I take my leave!¡± the Sword Lord replied. After speaking, he called out Ning Yan and departed.

    Yun Xiao retreated into the embrace of the Wind Listening Pavilion, navigating toward the eastern chamber, where settled and centered, he opened the vial of Sword Heart Spring.

    A small, shadowy creature sprang from his embrace, nosing curiously at the vials.

    ¡°Ugh!¡± Blue Star gagged, disdain warping his voice. ¡°It stinks.¡±

    ¡°It''s just the Sword Soul absorbing it, not us. We¡¯re fine,¡± Yun Xiao, with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in hand, leaned forward, seeking reassurance from his darkpanion. ¡°It''s useful, isn''t it?¡±

    ¡°Oh, it is. You¡¯ll feel somewhat eased. Your Sword Aura¡¯s so potent now, even your bones tremble beneath its might,¡± Blue Star offered.

    ¡°So, I can absorb it!¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°But,¡± a mischievous gleam lit Blue Star¡¯s eyes, ¡°it harbors tiny insects.¡±

    ¡°Insects?¡± A single brow of Yun Xiao arched in intrigue.

    ¡°Gu,¡± Blue Star revealed with a sly chuckle.

    Yun Xiao, after a measured nce at the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, asked, ¡°Will it affect us?¡±

    ¡°Not at all,¡±ughed Blue Star.

    ¡°Then what¡¯s the worry?¡± Yun Xiao, a casual shrug rippling through him, plunged the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into the vial, absorbing the Sword Heart Spring with a satisfied exhale.

    ¡°Ahhh, relief!¡± Genuine pleasure warmed his words.

    Indeed, this was something splendid. Yun Xiao, with a swift disregard for caution, opened two more jade bottles, absorbing their contents without preamble.

    ¡°Weren¡¯t you supposed to absorb it over three days?¡± Blue Star questioned, amusement coloring his words.

    ¡°When I act, I prefer the path of efficiency. I¡¯m not partial to stages,¡± Yun Xiao replied with cool ease.

    ¡°Then, why did you battle ten separate times under the osmanthus tree that night, each skirmish a varied dance?¡± Blue Star queried with a feigned disdain.

    "..." Yun Xiao, a re etching into his expression, snapped, ¡°That was the wine¡¯s doing!¡±

    "Who are you kidding? That little bit of wine, you two were sober after the second round, pretending for the other eight!" Blue Star, merciless in its reveal, mocked openly.

    "Was Senior Sister Zhao sober in thetter part of the night too?" Yun Xiao froze, his cheeks blossoming into a subtle red.

    "No shit! Both of you were wide awake and going at it like rabbits!" Blue Star dipped its head, letting loose a raucous cackle. "Still, even though you guys split it into ten rounds, looks like you hit the mark on the first go."

    Silence settled on Yun Xiao like a cumbersome coat.

    Abruptly, he seized Blue Star, shaking it with fervor. "Change of subject! Cough up the goods now!¡±

    Guttural heaves emanated from Blue Star, and Heavenly Dao Sariras scattered like jewels upon the ground. Yun Xiao, whose coffers had seen a consistent surge, ensured their bellies were perennially amidst a state of refining, theirbor uninterrupted.

    In short, Yun Xiao was in no short supply of Heavenly Dao Sariras!

    ¡°My breakthrough speed hinges on how fast the resources rolls in. They''re all assuming my progress is slow? Jokes on them, but that''s where I shine!¡± Hisugh, cool and sardonic, slithered through the air.

    Half an hourter, he shouted. ¡°I¡¯m in the Mid Origin Core Realm now!¡±

    Within his Dantian, the Primordial Void Core expanded, burgeoning to twice its size. The Golden Dantian trembled, struggling to contain the explosively increasing power, even for just a moment.

    ¡°A hundredyers of Sword Aura!¡±

    Apanied by the unprecedented boost to his Sword Soul in the Azure Kite Sea, curiosity wound itself tightly around Yun Xiao. Just how much had hisbat power improved?

    ¡°Though the Mid Origin Core Realm is modest, this Sword Soul will ensure whoever dares to draw a sword against me will meet their shattering demise!¡± Yun Xiao dered.

    Though Yun Xiao wasgging in cultivation, his Sword Soul was peerless. It was practically a divine weapon, a single strike meant certain demise!

    ¡°The Sword Soul resides in the sword bone. The Sword Soul and Sword Aura loom high, the sword bone simrly sharp. My flesh, bathed in magic power, struggles to keep up. Lucky for me, there¡¯s the vials of Sword Heart Spring!¡±

    It was a temporary alleviation for Yun Xiao.

    ¡°However, the Nine Dragons Dantian, the Seed of Creation Talent... I''m going to have to face Ye Guying soon!¡± A sudden spark flickered within Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes, as he sprung upright.

    Extracting his Pouch of Holding, he counted, softly muttering, ¡°About 200,000 Spirit Stones remaining.¡±

    ¡°Spirit Stones!¡± Red Moon mouth gaped wide, in eager anticipation of a feast.

    ¡°Dream on.¡± Yun Xiao pressed its maw shut, an image of a woman, clothed in ck, dancing into his thoughts, ¡°Though the Sea of Swords presented its fair share of noble beauties in recent days, Senior Sister Zhao... she''s still the most beautiful of all!¡±

    It was no wonder Ye Guying lingered on her so.

    ¡°What are you nning with those Spirit Stones?¡± Red Moon asked, an incredulous gaze affixed on Yun Xiao.

    ¡°She crafted me a white robe. Next time we meet, I n to give her something. Gazing down at his white robe, Yun Xiao''s eyes softened into a tender gleam, ¡°I heard that the Spirit Treasure Walk in the Sea of Swords has plenty of different wares. I¡¯m thinking of purchasing a treasure armor for Senior Sister Zhao. The Immortal Dao is a treacherous one; perhaps it¡¯ll grant her a moment''s sce on her demon-ying ventures.¡±¡±

    A sum of 200,000 Spirit Stones was a sizable fortune, one certainly capable of procuring a respectable piece of treasure armor.

    ¡°You¡¯ve just eradicated the lineage of this Sea of Swords, and now you intend to wander into the Spirit Treasure Walk?¡± Blue Star cackled.

    ¡°Of course! Since when did fear ever stop me?!¡± Yun Xiao stood, his gaze firm towards the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, pronouncing, ¡°Though a thousand swords may seek to impede my path, they shall not quench my resolve to purchase a gift for Senior Sister Zhao! I long to see her smile when we next converse. Heh heh...¡±

    ¡°You know, she is merely mortal, and your paths shall inevitably diverge,¡± Blue Star remarked somberly.

    ¡°Hold your tongue!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s re silenced it instantly.

    Blue Star stared, somewhat astonished. It was his first glimpse of the Creator Immortal being displeased due to his words. But rather than being annoyed, he chuckled, "Is this the new Creator Immortal? Intriguing..."

    ¡°Hell, you¡¯re annoying!¡± Yun Xiao scolded, scooping Blue Star into an affectionate grasp. He ambled toward the door, navigated through the dwelling, andnded at the West Tower of the Wind Listening Pavillion. A gentle rapping followed. ¡°Lin Lin, open up!¡±

    "Who¡¯s that?" queried a voice, fragile and startled, from within.

    "Who else?" Yun Xiao murmured, rolling his eyes.

    A resounding bang punctuated Lin Lin fiercely swinging the door open. Her eyes, alive with indignation, drilled into Yun Xiao. ¡°My father''s risking war with the whole Sea of Swords for you. And this is how you speak?¡±

    Yun Xiao waived away her words, his demeanor as steady as stone. "Take me to the Spirit Treasure Walk."

    ¡°Spirit Treasure Walk? It''s on Azure Kite Street, as in as the nose on your face,¡± she retorted, a brow arching skeptically.

    He nodded solemnly. "I know, but I''m buying ady some clothes. You¡¯d know best, being a woman and all. Help me choose a style."

    Lin Lin chuckled, a note of ice present in the sound. "If you think I¡¯m going to fall for some ill-thought ruse of affection, think again. You¡¯ll say the clothes are for me, won¡¯t you?¡±

    Yun Xiao replied with silence, punctuated by a stern p to Lin Lin¡¯s cheek. "Would you stop fantasizing, Lin Lin? You two aren''t even remotely the same size!"

    And with that, a third p reverberated through the space.

    Lin Lin¡¯s anger erupted, an inferno building in her eyes. Yet, after a pause, she steeled herself and hissed, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll take you!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Meanwhile, the Forbidden Tower loomed, a pulsing heart of hushed whispers and grave exchanges, resonating an aura of grim determination.

    ¡°Finally I''ve broken through to the Late Origin Core Realm!¡± Holy Son Chu¡¯s deration, swathed in a veil of subdued joy, filtered through as he exited the cultivation room, two figures awaiting him outside.

    Xiao He, his protector, and another¡ªa green-robed man in his fourties, donning a goatee and a somewhat lecherous air¡ªreceived him.

    ¡°My brilliant son, you¡¯ve advanced?¡± The green-robed man¡¯s eyes shimmered, a barely-contained excitement infusing his words.

    ¡°Father,¡± Holy Son Chu¡¯s response was an emotionless murmur. He casually repelled the advancing man, approaching Xiao He instead. ¡°Master Xiao, Yun Xiao still breathes, doesn¡¯t he? I intend to rectify that.¡±

    ¡°Your hands won¡¯t be needed,¡± Xiao He¡¯s reply was an icy whisper.

    Holy Son Chu paused, eyes narrowed. "What do you mean?¡±

    Patriarch Chu hurried forward, unfolding the recent happenings at the Azure Kite Sea, rting every detail to Holy Son Chu. The Holy Son absorbed the narrative, a numbing shock permeating his being.

    ¡°The Azure Kite Sea... is no more?¡± He hadn¡¯t even challenged the Rank Six Azure Kite!

    A solid half-hour passed, a time during which Holy Son Chu wrestled with a tempest of anguish and eptance.

    ¡°Fortunately, Yun Xiaocks a Dao Seed Talent and his cultivation is slightly beneath the Sword Princelings and Heaven Chosen. Not like Ye Guying, who possesses no discernable weak points!¡± Patriarch Chu consoled his son, ¡°Child, your swordy far surpassed his, even more so now. A mere half-stroke could obliterate him.¡±

    ¡°One hundredyers of Sword Aura?¡± Holy Son Chu''s voice wavered, a shadow crossing his visage.

    ¡°No matter!¡± Patriarch Chu assured. ¡°Without the cultivation to back it up, a sturdy Sword Soul is of no use. Avoid shing swords with him, and a single, vigorous strike to his head shall suffice for his demise.¡± After speaking, he nced appeasingly towards Xiao He, ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, Master Xiao?¡±

    "Seven to three odds, I say! Chu Yan at seven, Yun Xiao at three. As long as one avoids shing Sword Souls, it''s an easy kill," Xiao He analyzed, nodding solemnly.

    Yet, panic bubbled within Holy Son Chu. He recognized that Xiao He''s analysis still rested upon his own prior assertion¡ªthat Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t even parry a single one of his strikes! Everyone ced their belief in him. What was he to do?

    ¡°This man must die swiftly, or my cover¡¯s blown and I¡¯ll lose it all!¡± Holy Son Chu found himself riding a tiger, difficult to dismount.

    ¡°My son! I knew you''d break through today, so I''ve already set up a celebratory feast at the Spirit Treasure Walk. I''ve invited Patriarch Fan, Ning Que from the Ning family, and other noteworthy figures, of course, including your Master Xiao and his daughter Xiao Xing''er, to butter you up a bit,¡± Patriarch Chu said, beaming.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say Fan Jian and Xiao Xing''er had their Sword Souls cracked today?¡± Holy Son Chu asked.

    ¡°The Tower Lord personally used two Sword Tempering Pills to assist them in their recovery. It was fortunate that the damage wasn¡¯t severe,¡± Patriarch Chu''s expression darkened, ¡°That Yun Xiao actually ambushed them while they were absorbing the Azure Kite; his conduct is simply disgraceful, nothing like you my son!¡±

    Before he could finish, Chu Yan snapped, ¡°Would you shut it already!¡±

    ¡°Go, rx a bit. It¡¯s a good opportunity to chat with Ning Que,¡± Xiao He stated icily, ¡°I''ve heard that the Sword Lord went back and gave all five elders a good thrashing. There¡¯s now universal dissatisfaction over in Sword Heaven; this might be a good time to probe Ning Que¡¯s stance.¡±

    ¡°Is Lin Lin going?¡± Holy Son Chu asked.

    ¡°She fears the Sword Lord, of course, she dares note,¡± Xiao He replied.

    Even with some unease coiling within him, since Yun Xiao had already stirred up such trouble, what more was there to fear? And so, Holy Son Chu steeled himself, dering firmly, ¡°Let¡¯s go! Let''s all celebrate together!¡±

 Chapter 095 - Take Him Down with One Sword Stroke!

    <h4>Chapter 095 - Take Him Down with One Sword Stroke!</h4>

    Azure Kite Street buzzed with activity, yet beneath the livelymerce loomed an aura of calcted menace.

    Yun Xiao, with a mix of calm and curiosity, found himself stationed before a quaint shop within the Spirit Treasure Walk. The sign overhead squawked its proprietor''s philosophy: "Madam Qian¡¯s¡ªFreshly Baked! No Stale Pills Here."

    Inside, Madam Qian, a woman of a certain age yet untamed vigor perched on a stool behind the counter. Her legs were nonchntly crossed, a pipe, teetering between her lips, billowedzy clouds of smoke. She regarded Yun Xiao with an amused, undting stare, the essence of unvoiced questions swirling in the opulent air around them.

    ¡°All this is primo stuff!" she bellowed, ¡°Soft, lightweight, breathable. Ideal for a youngdy to discreetly armor herself. Heck, each piece will even ward off Sword Souls from the Establishment Origin Core Realm!¡±

    ¡°And if the armor fails?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s fingers danced over a piece of delicate armor, internally marveling at theplexity hidden within its seemingly fragile form.

    "Well, if it fails, I guess it fails! Maybe we''ll hold a feast! I¡¯ll snag a seat at the kiddos'' table.¡± A yful grin unfurled across Madam Qian¡¯s visage.

    ¡°You¡¯re a crafty one, huh? Charging me 200,000 Spirit Stones for this?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s eyebrow arched upward, his voice twinged with amused incredulity.

    ¡°Look, you get what you shell out for. That¡¯s our golden motto here in Spirit Treasure Walk,¡± Madam Qian replied, not missing a beat.

    A mental wrestle concluded within Yun Xiao, and for the sake of his Senior Sister Zhao¡¯s happiness, his wallet would mourn its losses today.

    ¡°Lin Lin, lend me your expertise, will you? What would a girl like?¡± His eyes flitted toward the younger woman nearby, revealing his utter ineptitude in such matters.

    Beside him, the young girl in a goose-yellow skirt paused momentarily, her demeanor frosty. When Yun Xiao spoke to her, she subconsciously nced behind. There lingered thousands of ruthless, malicious gazes.

    ¡°So many people want to kill him, and yet here he is, buying magic treasure armor, haggling with the shop owner?¡± Lin Lin couldn¡¯tprehend his actions, silently muttering, ¡°Where does his couragee from? We snuck into Spirit Treasure Walk so discreetly. My father won¡¯t even have time to rescue us if these people attack!¡±

    The atmosphere was frigidly tense.

    ¡°Choose one!¡± Yun Xiao urged.

    Lin Lin coldly regarded him. Purchasing a piece of treasure armor for 200,000 Spirit Stones was indeed avish act. She felt a pang of envy, but remembering that the funds came from Sword Heaven, she soured again.

    ¡°This one!¡± She chose a yellow piece, side-eyeing the surroundings where many influential individuals seemed to be alerting their respective family''s powerhouses.

    ¡°That won¡¯t do,¡± Yun Xiao, after inspecting the piece, shook his head.

    ¡°Why not? This is the prettiest piece here,¡± Madam Qian questioned, baffled.

    ¡°Got something a bit... looser?¡± Yun Xiao probed.

    ¡°Is thedy you¡¯re gifting rather... plump?¡± Initially, Madam Qian thought the gift was for Lin Lin.

    ¡°Not quite. Her waist is as slender as this girl''s,¡± Yun Xiao pointed at Lin Lin, ¡°It¡¯s just the upper part that might need to be a bit... more amodating!¡±

    ¡°What exactly is the size, dear brother?¡± Madam Qian grinned mischievously.

    Yun Xiao gestured toward a white jadentern overhead, ¡°Somewhere in that ballpark...¡±

    ¡°Understood!¡± Eyes alight withmercial lust, Madam Qian whispered, ¡°Wait here.¡±

    It wasn¡¯t long before she unveiled a ck piece of magic armor,bining generous top coverage with a sinuously tapered waist, as fragile as silk and, crucially, avable as a set. ck stockings, two pairs, hung nonchntly to the side.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s heart yed an erratic dance upon one nce, imagining the ethereal picture of Zhao Xuanran donning such exquisite armor and leg guards.

    ¡°How do you find this piece?¡± Madam Qian, her eyes a yful squint, inquired.

    ¡°Passable! If the price is right, it''s a deal,¡± Yun Xiaomented, unperturbed.

    ¡°Young man, you¡¯re truly blessed,¡± Madam Qian signed with a shake of her head.

    Blessed? What in the heavens was she jabbering about? It was an enigma to Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Let¡¯s cease the games and speak of price, shall we?¡± he interjected.

    ¡°500,000 Spirit Stones,¡± Madam Qian, a crooked grin enting her features, embarked upon a lively spiel, ¡°This, my young friend, is the cr¨¨me de cr¨¨me of our Spirit Treasure Walk¡¯s armory, nearing a tool of magic, tailored for the eminent female cultivators, ensuring unparalleled protection...¡±

    Yun Xiao paused momentarily, then, with a courteous bow, made to exit. ¡°Too expensive. I''m taking my leave!¡±

    An armor set with a price tag rivaling the coveted Azure Spirit Cauldron! The audacity! Poverty''s cold grasp clenched him.

    ¡°Wait wait wait! The price, my dear boy, is negotiable,¡± Madam Qian, her voiceced with urgency, called after him.

    ¡°I''ve only got 200,000 Spirit Stones,¡± he dered stoically.

    Madam Qian drew a heavy puff from her pipe, ncing between the ck armor in her hand and Lin Lin, then spoke, ¡°With this paltry sum, you could only afford a smaller Dao Companion!¡±

    "..." Yun Xiao could offer no reply.

    ¡°Have you all had enough?¡± Lin Lin was aze with anger, she red at Yun Xiao, ¡°What toad dares to dream of feasting on swan?¡±

    ¡°My dear, if I may be so bold! Amongst you, it is this young gentleman who most resembles the swan,¡± Madam Qian retorted, a chuckle rippling through her words.

    ¡°Madam Qian!¡± Lin Lin cast her a frosty nce, ¡°This matter has nothing to do with your Spirit Treasure Walk. Mind your sarcasm!¡±

    Madam Qian chortled, ¡°Child, I have walnuts here. Care to purchase some to boost your brain?¡± Daring to mock the daughter of the Sword Lord, one could tell she possessed a certain audacity.

    Furthermore, the front of her shop was now teeming with people, all of whom eyed Yun Xiao with no good intent, yet she dared to converse andugh heartily with him. Where would she be without some leverage?

    ¡°You!¡± Lin Lin was about to unleash a string of choice words when a procession emerged from within the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    ¡°Brother Chu!¡± Her eyes alighted upon a youth shrouded in violet robes. Instantly, her fury dissipated, reced by an elixir of joy and sweetness as she dashed towards him.

    A single day¡¯s absence had rendered three autumns¡¯ longing.

    ¡°Lin Lin.¡± Holy Son Chu, gently cradling her hand, soothed, ¡°Fear not! With your Brother Chu here, he dares not harm you.¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± Lin Lin nodded vigorously, clutching him tighter at the memory of being visually ravished by the unworthy Yun Xiao. Noticing the persistent bandage crowning Holy Son Chu¡¯s head, her voice caressed with concern, ¡°Brother Chu, are your ears still not healed?¡±

    ¡°It has,¡± Holy Son Chu reassured. ¡°I merely forgot to remove the bandage amidst my breakthrough. It¡¯s be somewhat dirty. I¡¯ll have to wash it out on my return.¡±

    ¡°I will wash it for you,¡± Lin Lin whispered, a gentle crimson tinting her cheeks. Reunited with her beloved, her father¡¯s admonitions were cast to the winds.

    ¡°Mhm!¡± A cough escaped Holy Son Chu. Suddenly elevating his gaze, his piercing eyes locked with the solitary white-d youth, now encircled. ¡°Yun Xiao!¡± A name that grated even in his dreams.

    ¡°Holy Son Chu?¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s eyebrow quirked subtly, his gaze drifting past him to those who followed.

    A motley gathering indeed! There were people like Xiao He, Patriarch Fan, and Ning Que. The younger lot included Fan Jian, Xiao Xing''er, Ning Jing, and several others. There were also quite a few unfamiliar faces, all dressed simrly to Holy Son Chu, likely members of his family.

    ¡°Choosing the road through heaven, but hell-bent on barging into hell instead, eh?¡± Holy Son Chu¡¯s eyes twisted into a malicious re at Yun Xiao. He had trained with mad fervor these past few days, breaking into the Late Origin Core Realm, his heart filled with a single, obsessive thought¡ªto have the man before him shed a thousand times over.

    "Yun Xiao! With the powerful from the Chu, Xiao, Ning, and Fan Families of the Sea of Swords all gathered, and thousands of Sword Cultivators surrounding you, how do you expect to survive this night?" Lin Lin clutched Holy Son Chu¡¯s arm, her eyes shimmering with rage. ¡°Brother Chu, this useless guy has run amuck during your seclusion, even daring to let Ning Yan im that you couldn''t take a single sword strike! He¡¯s tried to smear your name! Show him the might of the Forbidden Tower¡¯s Holy Son Chu, here in front of this grand assembly!¡±

    "Chu Yan, my son, strike! He''s defiled the Azure Kite Sea and must be executed by your hand, the Holy Son!" The green-robed man, Patriarch Chu, called out.

    ¡°Kill him!¡± Beside Chu Yan, a seductively enchanting woman spoke in a cold voice. This was Li Xian''er, Holy Son Chu¡¯s mother, a woman renowned for her beauty across the Sea of Swords.

    ¡°This little beast, sheltering under the Sword Lord¡¯s protection, shows no respect for anyone! If he doesn¡¯t die, where will the face of a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators of the Sea of Swords go?¡± Chu Yun, the elder brother of Holy Son Chu, called out.

    "Little Bro! Strike him down with one sword! This honor is yours!"

    Chu Feng, Chu Yu, and others spoke one after another. They were Holy Son Chu¡¯s big brothers and sisters. Though they weren''t Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower, they were still top disciples at the Origin Core Realm. They were all stronger than Ye Tiance.

    "Holy Son Chu! Purge the wicked with a single strike!" The eyes of thousands of Sword Cultivators were aze, all focused on the violet-robed youth. Their blood boiled with fervor.

    Feeling the gaze of Lin Lin, then his Chu Family, and finally the thousands of Sword Cultivators, a trace of panic flickered through Holy Son Chu¡¯s eyes. ¡°This Yun Xiao... he hasn¡¯t truly drawn his sword in public yet, has he...¡±

    Otherwise, the scene would be different.

    ¡°Given thebat power he showed in the Northern Wastnds, I should be able to defeat him, to wipe away my previous shame, after breaking through a stage. But the problem is his Sword Aura is too high now. There¡¯s a huge risk...¡±

    As this thought flitted through his mind, Holy Son Chu coughed slightly, his gaze shifting to Yun Xiao with an icy chill. "Tonight, my family, friends, and I are feasting, a moment of celebration. I don''t want to kill you, lest I dirty my hands! Do the deed yourself!"

    "Eh?" Lin Lin blinked, startled. "With his thick skin, how could he possibly end himself? Brother Chu, just throw a casual strike, it won¡¯t dirty your hands.¡±

    ¡°It will dirty my Sword Soul!¡± Holy Son Chu ground out through clenched teeth.

    ¡°I¡¯ll help you clean it...¡±

    Holy Son Chu''s heart was in turmoil.

    Just at this moment, a handnded on his shoulder, causing Holy Son Chu to jolt. Turning his head, it was his protector Xiao He.

    ¡°This little beast has drained the Azure Kite Sea clean. Although his cultivation is lower, it¡¯s best you geniuses don¡¯t confront him, to avoid unexpected mishaps,¡± Xiao He said, his gaze indifferent as he looked at Yun Xiao.

    Relief washed over Holy Son Chu, though anxiety still pricked at him. "Master Xiao, please end Yun Xiao with one sword stroke!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re Xiao He, right? Chu Yan¡¯s protector? Ensuring his growth?¡± Yun Xiao, observing the performance of Holy Son Chu with a slight smile, suddenly let his gaze grow cold, locking onto Xiao He.

    ¡°What of it?¡± Xiao He stood with his hands sped behind him, his mighty power swirling around him like a dragon, seeming to scrutinize Yun Xiao from among the clouds.

    "What realm are you in?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Establishment Origin Core Realm!" Lin Lin interjected disdainfully, eyeing Yun Xiao. "Your ignorance of even this exins your fearlessness, your audacity to prance about tonight, doesn¡¯t it?"

    "Oh, Establishment Origin Core Realm?" A subtle smile edged Yun Xiao''s lips.

    "Yes! A realm that should make you tremble! Though your Sword Soul has high quality, in this lifetime, you might never cultivate to such a lofty realm!" Lin Lin scoffed.

    "Feeling desperate?" Holy Son Chuughed, leisurely stepping back behind Xiao He.

    "Trembling? Desperate?" In Yun Xiao''s eyes, a lethal intent suddenly erupted. What a farce! Although he''d only been in the Sea of Swords for two days, he''d genuinely had enough! The incessant babble of not being able to withstand a single sword stroke echoed throughout the Sea of Swords, yet he¡¯d had no opportunity to publicly take action. He could bear it no longer!

    This was precisely the moment when everyone thought Yun Xiao would be toyed to death by this group of powerful family cultivators!

    People shook their heads and scoffed coldly.

    In that instant, Yun Xiao''s hands suddenly wielded the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, bursting with over a hundredyers of Sword Aura!

 Chapter 096 - Kill Yourself, Save Your Whole Family! (1)

    <h4>Chapter 096 - Kill Yourself, Save Your Whole Family! (1)</h4>

    The Sword Soul burst forth, its frigid aura unspooling like a cold tempest, consuming the entirety of the environment.

    Azure Kite Street, in a mere moment, spiraled into a hell, the very epitome of destion and demise.

    ¡°A protector, eh?¡± Yun Xiao, once rooted in ce, transformed into a white streak, surging headlong into the fray.

    ¡°You think you can sneak up on Holy Son Chu, huh?¡± Xiao He, shrouded in his dark robe, shielded Holy Son Chu with a stern furrow of his brow, a deep-blue Sword Soul hurtling from his grasp.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t spare a nce at his Sword Aura. When he slew, he didn''t measure his opponent''s Sword Aurayers; he knew none possessed more than his own.

    To Xiao He, Yun Xiao''s sword birthed an azure, furious dragon, its roars echoing as it daringly sped towards him.

    ¡°He¡¯sing for me?¡± Xiao Heughed, a quiet, incredulous chuckle echoing amidst the chaos. This brazen audacity... He who stood mightier than numerous Great Sword Venerables in Sword Heaven!

    Xiao He anchored himself, a deep-blue Palm Sword poised in one hand. Defending with one, and with the other, he unleashed a grade sword technique.

    ¡°Shadows of the Sky-Bound Crane!¡± The deep-blue Sword Soul birthed a sword sea, releasing a shadow, which, like a tumultuous wave, cascaded forward. This strike, akin to a boundless ocean, swallowed dragons in a solitary swoop.

    ¡°Master Xiao, what power!¡± Holy Son Chu and Lin Lin, among others, secretly rejoiced. A powerful Sword Aura meant nothing without the cultivation to back it up! With Xiao He personally taking action, Yun Xiao would be reduced to dust in no time!

    Observing the rolling sea before him, Yun Xiao''s eyes sharpened. ¡°Beneath its vastness, itcks finesse; a sword with gaps dares to im to be grade?¡± His coldugh cut through, the Azure Dragon Squall in his hand altering its trajectory, striking forth three dragons with a singr sword stroke. The dragons on either side gnawed at the sea of sword energy, the central sword, akin to a dragon bursting forth, ferociously pierced through.

    ¡°Little worm... WHAT?!¡± Xiao He¡¯s once cid face transformed in the sh''s immediate aftermath, his expression plummeting into stark horror.

    Yun Xiao''s two nking azure dragons, with a sweeping, majestic sword technique, forcefully dispersed Xiao He¡¯s sword intention. That central sword, moreover, struck with a bamboo-splitting momentum, a brilliantly delicate and lethal stroke.

    ¡°His power is nearing mine!¡± Xiao He cried out, his soul violently shuddering. A cold sweat instantly washed over his forehead.

    If Yun Xiao could not even endure a single blow from Chu Yan, it would ce him at the Early Origin Core Realm, the first transformation of the Origin Core. But the pressure of the power Xiao He presently felt surged beyond the Perfect Origin Core Realm, nearly catching up to the Establishment Origin Core Realm!

    ¡°It isn''t just his power. His swordy is stronger than mine!¡± Xiao He gritted his teeth.

    This was a truly fatal revtion!

    With a chorus of shing, when Yun Xiao¡¯s roaring dragon sword zoomed towards Xiao He¡¯s chest, he had no choice but to parry with his own!

    A stark ng resonated as the azure Sword Soul sharply collided against the side of the deep-blue Sword Soul. Blinding sparks erupted momentarily, an excruciating screech ringing out in the air. A thousand present involuntarily shielded their ears in shared agony.

    ¡°NOOOO!¡± Xiao He¡¯s eyes violently ruptured, a wail of sheer torment tearing from him. In his veryst moments, the man swung his head around, fierce indignation burning in his eyes, to re at Holy Son Chu. "You... you did this to me! You lying little...!"

    Were it not for Holy Son Chu''s insistence that Yun Xiao posed as much threat as a paper tiger, he wouldn''t have let his guard down. Sadly, the life of a Sword Cultivator was much like a high-stakes dance on the edge of a de¡ªone misstep, one false move, and it was curtains.

    With an explosive sound that resonated like a thunderp, their Sword Souls collided. Yet, Xiao He''s deep-blue Sword Soul faltered and shattered almost instantly, spreading out like shrapnel and scarring his own physique.

    Try as Xiao He might, no sword fragments, no matter how valiantly, could turn away Yun Xiao''s unforgiving attack. Yun Xiao''s sword passed through the man''s chest like a hot knife through butter. Not a single crimson drop of life fell from his body as the azure Sword Soul acted like a leech, absorbing it all.

    Before a gasp or wailed protest could be shed by any spectator, Yun Xiao ruthlessly pulled his trusty sword free.

    Xiao He''s body went as limp as a rag doll and crumpled at Yun Xiao''s feet. His soul escaping in wisps to the ether, the gaping hole in his chest marking the undeniable signature of mortality.

    Even in the veil of death that drew close, he dredged up thest of his strength, shaky hand outstretched towards Yun Xiao, voice a rasp, "Your... one... sword..." His eyes, once bright, were now pools of primal horror.

    "Well, aren''t you a mighty Dao Protector? Thought you could outmatch me? Couldn''t even take a single sword stroke, could you?" Among a sea of stunned faces, Yun Xiao smirked. The joke was on them. Without wasted breath, he thrust his sword forward, impaling the lifeless man several times over until his own name, <i>Yun Xiao</i>, emerged in vivid crimson on the man''s body¡ªa cruel mockery.

    "Agh...!" Xiao He trembled violently before his eyes rolled over and he breathed hisst.

    "A top swordsman of the Forbidden Tower, eh? Able to match sword swings with Great Sword Venerable? That''s what they told me. What a joke!" After muttering those words, colder than a winter''s day, Yun Xiao neatly severed the head with a single, decisive stroke.

    With a flick of his wrist, he tossed the lifeless head towards a stunned maiden adorned in a yellow skirt. The headnded in her unprepared arms, staining her with blood.

    The maiden, Lin Lin, was a statue of mute horror, her hands trembling as she held the decapitated trophy. She didn''t even summon the strength to hurl the macabre object away...

    She looked on with shocked, wide eyes at the young man before her, while tremors ran wild through her body. Looking down at the severed head, she found his face frozen in an eternal grimace, his tongue lolling out grotesquely.

    "Lin Lin, your precious Holy Son Chu is really something else, eh? His own Dao Protector couldn''t even take a single sword stroke from me. And I can''t even take a single sword stroke from him. That must mean he must be far superior to even the Forbidden Tower Lord, huh?" Yun Xiao mocked.

    "Ahhhhh!" Only then did the horrifying reality hit Lin Lin. Letting out a cry she vaguely registered as her own, she hurled the detached head away and turned an using gaze on Holy Son Chu.

    The air thickened as every eye in the vicinity fixed on him. The unsettling and bitter outcry of betrayal that echoed onest time from Xiao He, "You... you did this to me!", reverberated like a desperate cry of the damned, leaving a deep impression on all who bore it witness.

    "I...I..." Holy Son Chu''s eyes quaked in terror. He stumbled backward, fear washing over his face. He was speechless.

    "There''s no need for chatter. Kill him!" Suddenly, Patriarch Fan surged forward, his sword aimed at Yun Xiao!

    A powerhouse in the same league as Xiao He! However, his attack bore the weight of his full strength. There was not an ounce of condescension. Another Great Sword Venerable level expert at the Establishment Origin Core Realm!

    Patriarch Fan was a towering figure. The Palm Sword in his hand measured a staggering four feet, a giant golden de. His sword came shing down like a lion pouncing on its prey. The attack was ruthless, vicious, and brutal!

    <i>KLANG KLANG! </i>Unfazed, Yun Xiao continued his march towards Holy Son Chu! He didn''t even spare a nce at Patriarch Fan. His Sword Soul transformed into a Flying Sword, shooting out with ferocious speed.

    "Ten-Step Scale?" Patriarch Fan recognized it immediately. "You''re using a mere Low Moon grade Flying Sword Technique against me?"

    As his words echoed, the Ten-Step Scale exploded a total of thirteen times. The final three explosions were so brilliantly executed they were like divine strokes, catapulting the destructive capabilities of the Flying Sword technique from Moon to grade.

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Three consecutive sts, quick as phantom reflections, weaved through Patriarch Fan''s offensive, one sword striking deep into his shoulder de.

    "Ah!" Patriarch Fan screamed miserably. An arm, apanied by a chunk of his shoulder, detached from his body and flew through the air.

    Yun Xiao suddenly emerged before him, catching his azure Flying Sword. The sword elongated into a three-feet-long blue edge with a hundredyers of Sword Aura swirling around it.

    "You''re three stages above me, do you think I can''t kill you?" Yun Xiao sneered internally. "My Sword Aura is sixtyyers higher than yours!"

    In the Sea of Swords, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul was a truly exceptional super sword of its own. In terms of the sword alone, no one could rival it; no one dared to.

    Yun Xiao struck again! The azure Sword Soul cut through the air and, like cutting tofu, it severed Patriarch Fan''s other arm. <i>THUD! </i>Another arm was lost.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>With yet another sh from Yun Xiao, the Sword Soul cut again, just as with tofu, severing both of Patriarch Fan''s legs in the process.

    <i>THUD! </i>Patriarch Fannded with a cry ripping out from the depth of his soul, his blood sttering across the ground. "Stop!!"

    <i>STAB! </i>Just as he finished pleading, a Flying Sword fell from the sky, piercing his throat ruthlessly, nailing him to the spot.

    "Just another weakling, unable to even withstand half a sword stroke from Holy Son Chu!" Yun Xiao flicked his fingers, the azure Flying Sword returning to his hand, spinning in ce.

    The robust body of Patriarch Fan slumped lifelessly.

    "Dad!" Both Fan Jian and Xiao Xing''er, eyes bleeding with anguish, knelt down hard. The look on their faces was beyond deste, their souls quaking.

    The father-daughter duo, Ning Que and Ning Jing, stumbled back several steps, almost falling on their faces, tongue-tied with shock and awe.

    The myriad Sword Cultivators watched on, rooted in ce, their throats burning, bloodshot eyes filled with bewilderment as they stared at the young man in white robes.

    Holy Son Chu, eyes stretched to a bewildering wideness, found himself without voice, his knees copsing into the muddy, well-trodden earth before Yun Xiao. The moment lingered in the damp air, suspended between disbelief and the harsh tang of pending humiliation.

    "Brother Chu..." Lin Lin, her heart a fluttering mess, sank down next to him, hands caked with dirt as she propelled herself backwards, the streams of tears carving trails through the grime on her cheeks.

    "Holy Son Chu, tell me. Back in the Northern Wastnds, I couldn''t even take a single swordstroke from you, is that right?" Yun Xiao said, with an air of leisure that betrayed the scene''s tension, stepped forward. His smile sweet yetced with insidious charm, regarded the kneeling youth before him.

    "Y-yes.. Yes. I... I..." Holy Son Chu managed only a choked stammer, his violet robe darkening with an unspoken shame as sweat and stench mingled openly. Lin Lin, close enough to discern the unpleasantbination, could only bear witness, her own words lost in a sea of emotion.

    ¡°He¡¯s soiled himself, Lin Lin. But even now, I wager you find his filth has a certain... sweetness?¡± Yun Xiao tilted his head, casting his mocking gaze towards her. The vibrant air of the street stumbled into an uneasy quiet. And Lin Lin trembled, unable to form words as her body seized up.

    Yun Xiao, his sword now drawn, gently coaxed the bandage from Holy Son Chu''s head. Holy Son Chu''s hollow cheeks, once concealed, now provided a gory spectacle to the onlookers.

    ¡°Oh dear, Holy Son Chu,¡± Yun Xiao began, his voice dripping with a yful venom. ¡°Whatever happened to your ears during your trip to the Northern Wastnds? Surely I didn''t chop them off? After all, I was hardly a match for a single stroke of your sword!¡±

 Chapter 097 - Kill Yourself, Save Your Whole Family! (2)

    <h4>Chapter 097 - Kill Yourself, Save Your Whole Family! (2)</h4>

    Taking credit that wasn''t true to deceive others and oneself. That was the favored trick of Jiang Yue.

    ¡°Such games... they tend to end poorly, wouldn¡¯t you agree?¡± Yun Xiao mused, his Sword Soul lightly caressing Holy Son Chu¡¯s cheek. ¡°Now, Holy Son Chu, considering the substantial dent you¡¯ve put in my reputation these past days, what shall be mypensation?¡±

    The raw truth revealed itself. If Yun Xiao hadn¡¯t proven himself, he might have indeed fallen victim to Holy Son Chu''s insidious ploy.

    As the Sword Cultivators amidst the crowd gawked, lost for words, the scene unfurled in vicious irony. The humiliation of Holy Son Chu, Yun Xiao¡¯s profound cultivation, and his fierce swordsmanship wereid bare for all to see.

    The infamy surrounding Yun Xiao had reached a crescendo, shaking the foundations of public perception. His back-to-back ying of two being at the Establishment Origin Core Realm had already validated all there was to prove.

    In the crowd, Fan Jian and Xiao Xing''er, Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower, had already stealthily retreated into the shadows, their eyes sharing an unspoken conversation.

    ¡°We need to get out of here.¡±

    ¡°Find help!¡±

    Their thoughts, simultaneously born from mutual dread, turned to fleeing. Slipping into the Spirit Treasure Walk, they aimed to vanish through a rear window.

    ¡°Aiming to flee, are we?¡±

    Fan Jian, on the brink of propelling himself with his Sovereign Sword, froze as a chilling voice invaded the space behind him.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, we can talk through this, right? We¡¯ve no quarrel¡ª¡± His words were cut short, an azure Flying Sword silencing his plea as it pierced through his mouth.

    Swift, decisive, and exact, Fan Jian fell from the rear window, his bulky form a lifeless mass upon the cold ground below.

    As the crowd disseminated in startled awe, staring at Fan Jian''s corpse, their limbs trembled in fear.

    Sword Princeling Ning Jing, witnessing Fan Jian''s demise, held tightly to her father Ning Que, startling him with her grip.

    ¡°I killed your father, and you say we have no quarrel? You must have a screw loose in your head.¡± Yun Xiao''s coldughter resonated in the tense air. Suddenly, he sent his azure Flying Sword soaring into the dimming night sky.

    <i>STAB! </i>High above, a certain figure attempting to flee away on a Sovereign Sword was abruptly pierced through the back by a sword!

    <i>THUD! </i>She plummeted from the heavens, crashnding in a bloody, unrecognizable heap on the ground. This was Xiao Xing¡¯er, the fianc¨¦e of the Sword Lord''s son, Lin Chen!

    "Sister-inw..." Lin Lin, upon witnessing the horrific state of Xiao Xing''er, released an agonized wail, her breathing hitched with overwhelming sorrow. Another one lost!

    "Are these the Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower? Not even worth killing! What a waste of two Sword Tempering Pills," Yun Xiao dered nonchntly, wiping out the two as effortlessly as snuffing out ants.

    His ease and ruthlessness etched a deep, unforgettable impression upon the Sword Cultivators of the Sea of Swords. Did they perceive him as an easy target? Sadly for them, he was the sharpest of thorns!

    "Ah! Ah...!" Holy Son Chu, eyes bulging psyche shattering as he wailed. He gazed at the two Heaven Chosen. They had always been stronger than him, but they fell like dust at Yun Xiao¡¯s hands.

    As for Holy Son Chu''s family... Patriarch Chu, Li Xian''er, Chu Yun, Chu Feng, Chu Yu, witnessing the gruesome fates of Fan Jian and Xiao Xing''er, where could they possibly flee? Their expressions were ashen, huddling together, they all knelt before Yun Xiao.

    "Young Sword Lord! We were blind, not recognizing that you are the foremost genius of the Sea of Swords! Please, Young Sword Lord, spare us!" Patriarch Chu, tears and snot flowing unbridled, knocked his forehead to the ground in plea.

    "Please spare us, Young Sword Lord!" Li Xian''er, leading her children, also kowtowed. A woman, once famed for her beauty across the Sea of Swords, now trembled, her eyes constantly darting afar, silently pleading for a savior.

    "No need for such theatrics. Surely, you''re all thinking that once your Forbidden Tower experts arrive, they''ll disassemble me, right?" Yun Xiao inquired coolly.

    "No, no, no! We sincerely admit our wrongdoing!" Patriarch Chu begged, presenting a Pouch of Holding, ¡°Young Sword Lord, here are 2,000,000 Spirit Stones, the entirety of my Chu Family¡¯s wealth, offered to you as reparation!"

    A sum of 2,000,000 Spirit Stones! The crowd inhaled sharply, their bodies trembling for this was no small sum.

    Patriarch Chu offered the Spirit Stones, having observed Yun Xiao murder Fan Jian and Xiao He, then effortlessly loot their possessions.

    "2,000,000 Spirit Stones, huh?" Yun Xiao eyed Patriarch Chu, "If I kill you, the Spirit Stones would still be mine. Basically, this is already my money! Patriarch Chu, how can you use my money to purchase your life?"

    "W-what...?" Patriarch Chu¡¯s body recoiled as if struck by lightning!

    "Holy Son Chu!" Yun Xiao, turning toward Chu Yan, offered a frigid smile, "You just suggested Imit suicide, did you not?"

    "I dare not! I dare not!" Holy Son Chu sobbed and kowtowed.

    "Today, only one of you has to die to protect your entire family. How about it?" Yun Xiao suddenly proposed.

    "What?" Holy Son Chu stared nkly.

    "I have no desire to dirty my sword with your death today. If you take your own life, I will spare your family," Yun Xiao stated indifferently.

    A chill ran down the spines of the onlookers! This youth in white, in spite of his celestial looks, harbored a vengefulness that left souls trembling!

    Indeed, Yun Xiao put on this disy for them all! He desired the entire Sea of Swords to understand the consequences of crossing him. Any affront, no matter how minor, would be repaid manifold!

    "Bow one head to spare a hundred swords!" The phrase held a grim weight in the air.

    "I should kill myself? To save my family?" Holy Son Chu''s response was as explosive as a strike of five thunderbolts. His face ripped apart with horror, tears streaming unchecked.

    "Exactly! Youmit suicide!" Yun Xiao answered without a trace of doubt.

    "No, no..." Holy Son Chu whimpered, pounding his head on the floor with panicden force. "Young Sword Lord, please, spare me! Treat me as a dog if you must! I''ll serve you!"

    Yun Xiao didn''t hesitate. He dragged Chu Yu, the sister of the Holy Son, and lobbed her on the ground before him. A swift thrust of his sword, and it was over. Chu Yu''s life ended with a morbid scream and shaking limbs.

    "Holy Son Chu! Stop buying time. Your death to save your family. Kill yourself!" Yun Xiao''smand was frosty and severe.

    "Chu Yan!" The pleas came pouring out. Patriarch Chu, Li Xian''er, Chu Feng, and Chu Yun each whimpered in desperation.

    "My son, for the sake of your parents and siblings, please, take your own life!" Patriarch Chu sobbed uncontrobly.

    "Son, I gave birth to you and raised you. Please, spare your mother''s life," Li Xian''er pleaded.

    Chu Yun chimed in, "Little Brother, we''ve always favored you, given you everything you wanted. You''re bound to die today anyway, why not end it and give your older brother a chance to live?!"

    "It''s you who offended the Young Sword Lord; we had no part in it. Kill yourself, Chu Yan!" Chu Feng''s eyes were a bloodshot crimson. They all were practically begging.

    ''Y-you... you all! Holy Son Chu muttered. Each desperate plea was as if a sword was pierced right through his heart. He feltpletely shattered.

    "Son, you''re already a dead man! But we all still have a life!" Patriarch Chu pleaded desperately. "Kill yourself! Spare your family and wipe away your sins!"

    "Wasting time again, huh?" Yun Xiao uttered before firing his Flying Sword, nailing Chu Feng to the wall of the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    "Ahhhh!" The whole Chu Family was sent into chaos.

    "Chu Yan, just kill yourself!"

    Upon hearing that, Holy Son Chu copsed onto the floor. He held the Sword Soul in his hands but couldn''t muster the courage to plunge it into his own heart.

    "Father! Mother! Brother!" Holy Son Chu''s grief echoed through the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    "Brother Chu..." Lin Lin, Holy Son Chu''s apparent lover, couldn''t bear it anymore. She had cried herself nearly blind.

    Without uttering another word, Yun Xiao stood, aiming his Flying Sword every five breaths to im yet another life. Chu Yun, dead. Li Xianer, dead!

    Seeing Holy Son Chu still didn''t dare to kill himself after the final five breaths, Yun Xiao put an end to Patriarch Chu too.

    "Just one death, you could''ve saved them all. You''re such a filial son!" Yun Xiao delivered a cold remark. And with one swift movement, he stabbed his Sword Soul right through Holy Son Chu''s Dantian, disabling him.

    "Do you want to die, Holy Son Chu? Sorry, but I won''t let you!" Yun Xiao taunted, "I want you to exist in the Sea of Swords for everyone to see and remember you for your lying mouth."

    Who between the two of them couldn''t take a single sword stroke? The question no longer needed to be asked.

    Holy Son Chuy on the ground. He could barely string two thoughts together. "I''m... I''m alive..." He muttered bitterly. There was a certain darkness in his gaze when he finally turned towards Lin Lin by his side. "Lin Lin, out of everyone in this world, I only have you left now..."

    These words sent Lin Lin into a series of broken sobs, unable to tolerate it any longer. Her wail echoed through the still air, and with a clumsy hustle that involved more rolling than running, she bulldozed her way through the crowd, leaving in her wake a vision of utter disarray. It was over!

    Yun Xiao scanned the surroundings. Thousands of Sword Cultivators stared nkly at him, their fingers quivering concealed within their sleeves, their eyes forever etching into memory the image of this white-robed youth and his current greed, wrath, and foolishness.

    "Well then..." Yun Xiao scooped up the Spirit Stones of the fallen, tucking them all into his Pouch of Holding. A sum of over 5,000,000 Spirit Stones!

    "Ladies and gentlemen," Yun Xiao dered. "Sometimes hearing is doubting, while seeing is believing! Next time, I hope you¡¯ll observe before drawing your conclusions!" He trusted they grasped his meaning.

    "Young Sword Lord is remarkable!" For a moment, hundreds subconsciously cupsed their hands and bowed in response.

    After this night, the Sea of Swords would naturally not lean entirely toward Ye Guying!

    "Kindness and forbearance can¡¯t snatch respect on the path to immortality!" Yun Xiao uttered firmly. "Only strength and means can genuinely make one surrender!"

    When it was time to act, act! From the gazes of these people, Yun Xiao knew that he''d subdued the Sea of Swords!

    After the day, he''d swallowed the Azure Kite Sea, and thousands screamed for his death! Why? In the end, it was still because they thought his Sword Soul was strong, but his cultivation was weak!

    Now, a new consensus had formed...

    "Let the sword fly a bit longer!"

    "The sword just came out. Why preemptively decide who loses and who wins?"

    As Yun Xiao spoke, he turned to Ning Que, saying, "Right, Patriarch Ning?"

    Ning Que, bracing himself against therge door of the Spirit Treasure Walk to stand firmly, spoke with a raspy, trembling voice, "Correct! My sister... she really does have a good eye!"

    "So, does Sword Heaven think highly of me now?" Yun Xiao asked, a hint of nonchnce in his voice.

    "Yes!" Ning Que gritted his teeth to respond.

    "But I think nothing of Sword Heaven." Yun Xiao cracked a grin.

    "..." Ning Que froze, silent for a long time.

    At this moment, the white-robed youth turned back, returning to the shop of Madam Qian!

    Madam Qian, puffing on her pipe and propping up her legs over each other, had been squinting and smiling from start to finish, watching the youth''s every move with the might of a tiger.

    Without a word, Yun Xiao counted out 500,000 Spirit Stones from his Pouch of Holding and ced them before Madam Qian, then softly smiled, "Shopkeeper, I''ll take thatrge-size Dao Companion magic treasure armor!"

    "Hehe, young man, you sure have good taste! Gifting this, won¡¯t yourdy be so moved she''d just about make a puddle!?" Madam Qian hastily set down her pipe, with a whoosh she epted the 500,000 Spirit Stones..

    "Yup, Senior Sister Zhao should be happy with this!" Yun Xiao nodded with a smile.

    "Do you know what I mean by making a puddle, boy?" Madam Qian raised an eyebrow, a yful smile dancing on her lips.

    "..." Yun Xiao was struck speechless.

    "Here, it''s all packed!" Madam Qian handed the armor to Yun Xiao with a beaming smile, leaning closer to whisper in his ear, "I have a little brother named Qian Kun, he mentioned you and your deeds at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect to me! Breaking through a sect in six days? To us, you¡¯re somewhat of a deity. Funny how they all pamper Ye Guying like a precious gem."

    "Qian Kun? The Chief Steward of the Spirit Treasure Pavilion?" Yun Xiao knew that the Spirit Treasure Pavilion was the Spirit Treasure Walk''s branch in the mortal world.

    "Yes!" Madam Qian pinched Yun Xiao''s face, sighed at how tender it was, then spoke, "Little brother, if Sword Heaven doesn¡¯t treat you well,e find your sister anytime, I¡¯ll have your back!"

    "With just your Spirit Treasure Walk, you talk big, huh?" Yun Xiao quirked an eyebrow.

    ¡°Oh, absolutely! Us merchants, we''ve all got a little muscle behind us. Imagine trying to run a business on the path to immortality without some backup. It would be pure phnthropy, wouldn¡¯t it?¡± Madam Qian dered with a charmed smile.

    ¡°And where might your muscle be flexing from?¡± Yun Xiao inquired with a teasing grin.

    In response, Madam Qian yfully pointed skyward, chuckling heartily.

    A sh of understanding sparked in Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes. After a moment''s contemtion, he erupted into cheerfulughter, ¡°Many thanks for the kind sentiment. I''ll keep it in mind. However, with the Sword Lord of Sword Heaven showing such favor and protection toward me, I must afford him some face!¡±

    ¡°Suit yourself! I won''t see you off then.¡± Madam Qian waved dismissively.

    ¡°Oh, by the way, do you have any Sword Tempering Pills here?¡± Yun Xiao asked before departing.

    ¡°We do!¡± Madam Qian replied.

    ¡°Are they free?¡± Yun Xiao teased.

    ¡°Free, your auntie!¡± Madam Qian jabbed a finger toward the que above. ¡°Our Spirit Treasure Walk''s pills are all freshly baked, no stale pills sold here!¡±

    ¡°How much then?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Two million apiece!¡±

    Yun Xiao hesitated, momentarily stunned. Then he sighed. "Ahh, sadly I''m from a humble home, I must decline!¡±

 Chapter 098 - Killing Before the Night Passes!

    <h4>Chapter 098 - Killing Before the Night Passes!</h4>

    Yun Xiao''s departure left Azure Kite Street simmering in unrest for a considerable time.

    ¡°Brother! Where''s Yun Xiao?¡± Ning Yan rushed over, her eyes darting across the sprawl of lifeless bodies, her eyelids twitching uncontrobly.

    ¡°Let''s talk back in Sword Heaven,¡± Ning Que spoke hurriedly, fearing the wrath of those from the Forbidden Tower might descend upon their Ning Family should they arrive. Retreat was the only option.

    Along the way, Ning Jing, her voice quivering, recounted the earlier incident to Ning Yan.

    ¡°Damn...¡± Ning Yan wore an oddly twisted expression after listening, murmuring to herself, ¡°That kid¡¯s got the face of an Immortal, but the heart of a murderous demon, huh?¡±

    ¡°Ning Yan, did you know Yun Xiao was this powerful?¡± Ning Que stared at her, teeth gritted in suppressed rage.

    ¡°I knew it, yeah!¡± Ning Yan responded nonchntly.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say something sooner?¡± Ning Que''s words simmered with contained anger.

    ¡°I told you at Jade Sun Tower, didn''t I? The problem is you didn¡¯t believe me! You only trusted Lin Lin¡¯s lovesick brain! So, who''s the fool here, you or me?¡± Ning Yan retorted, a cold smirk ying on her lips.

    Ning Que paused, harshly pping his own forehead in a mix of regret and realization.

    ¡°Who could have anticipated that Holy Son Chu, someone representing the Forbidden Tower, would, like a petty clown, twist truth and falsehood...¡± Ning Jing sighed, lowering her head in helpless resignation, ¡°He brought disgrace upon himself. His family dead, only he survived... Such humiliation; he won¡¯t be able to show his face in public for the rest of his life!¡±

    ¡°You two should count your blessings that you¡¯re my family. Otherwise, Yun Xiao definitely would have ughtered you both too!¡± Ning Yan puffed out her chest, her face brimming with a self-satisfied air, ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to my good name, understand?¡±

    ¡°You!¡± Ning Que¡¯s face alternated between shades of green and white, ultimately bowing his head in defeat, ¡°Fine, I concede!¡±

    ¡°Idiot!¡± Ning Yan chuckled.

    Ning Que, having been insulted, could only swallow his words. He had always considered himself quite intelligent, yet this time, he too had been duped by Holy Son Chu. Fortunately, his only loss was a blow to his pride, unlike Xiao He who, thanks to Holy Son Chu, had lost his life!

    "Brother, what''s running through that head of yours now?" Ning Yan asked, her gaze icy as it fixed on him.

    "You¡¯re something, I''ll give you that! This Yun Xiao, with his hundredyer Sword Aura and peerless swordsmanship, doesn''t only have a high cultivation but also remarkablebat power. I reckon he¡¯s qualified to sh with Lin Chen, Ye Guying, and Chen Xi!" Ning Que spoke and pursed his lips, adding, "However, unlike Lin Chen, he¡¯s now in deep trouble with the Forbidden Tower. To what extent the Forbidden Tower will go to kill him is momentarily unpredictable, and the present situation is somewhat chaotic!"

    "Is the Ning family still not backing Yun Xiao?" Ning Yan raised an eyebrow in inquiry.

    "Nope! But, we''re not opposing him either!" Ning Que dered.

    Before tonight, the Ning Family was decidedly opposed.

    "You''d best extract yourself from this situation quickly. Yun Xiao is stronger than you and doesn''t require your protection!" Ning Que looked at her earnestly, "My dear little sister, heed your brother''s words. Don¡¯t return to Sword Heaven. Swiftly retreat and avoid the brewing storm. Otherwise, should any shifts ur, being sandwiched between two forces, you will undoubtedly be the first to fall! After the incidents at Azure Kite Sea and Spirit Treasure Walk, the nature of things has fundamentally changed!"

    "I should leave? Brother, what exactly are you implying?" Ning Yan stood dumbstruck, for seldom did this big brother of hers show such concern as he did today.

    "I sense something amiss!" Ning Que said with a grave tone.

    "What''s amiss?" A puzzled Ning Yan asked.

    Ning Que patted her shoulder, his eyes deep and serious. "Just a word of caution, don¡¯t let Lin Qingfeng make a fool of you! Some people gave up on you thoroughly more than twenty years ago. Now that you''re not as young as you once were, can you still expect ate bloom? I don¡¯t buy it!"

    Tears sprang into Ning Yan''s eyes.

    "You damn well know you¡¯re the one past your prime!" Ning Que said, rolling his eyes.

    "I''m in the prime of my life, give me a man, and I can still bear ten children!" Ning Yan argued.

    "..." Ning Que was struck speechless.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Sword Heaven!

    Ancestral Sword Hall!

    In the veil of the somber night, three youthful figures knelt solemnly.

    Even as half a day had psed, the venomous hatred within their hearts refused to dissipate.

    "Why?! Our Ning Family has sacrificed so much for Sword Heaven, and the Sword Lord is going to abolish my position as a Sword Princeling, just for this outsider?" Ning Bei hung his head low, his eyes bleeding an infernal red, harboring a hatred so profound within his chest.

    "Don¡¯t worry, Brother Bei, Brother Chen will help us vent our anger!" Murong Qianforted softly.

    "That kid, within three days, he will be executed by a myriad of swords. I hope his corpse remains intact, so I might thrust onest sword through him to soothe the hatred in my heart!" Lin Xiaolong''s eyes manifested a horrific malice.

    The astounding incidents at the Azure Kite Sea and Spirit Treasure Tower swept across the Sea of Swords. Yet, these three were forgotten in this tranquil Ancestral Sword Hall, engulfed by the profound silence of the night.

    "Let¡¯s cultivate here! If I can break through one more stage, I¡¯ll kill him myself!" Murderous intent surged in Ning Bei¡¯s eyes.

    No sooner had his words fallen¡ª

    <i>SLASH! </i>A fierce azure sword ray suddenly surged forward!

    <i>THUD! </i>With a sh of the sword, Ning Bei, eyes widened, watched as his own head tumbled to the ground.

    "Brother Bei?!" Lin Xiaolong and Murong Qian, as though struck by lightning, felt their hearts fiercely tremble. Whipping around, they saw, at the entrance of the Ancestral Sword Hall, a young man in white standing silently.

    "Damn the trip back here was exhausting! Finally rushed back to send the three of you to theherworld!¡± Yun Xiao lifted his head, a chilling smile danced on his lips, ¡°Didn¡¯t wait overnight, did you?¡±

    ¡°You!¡± Murong Qian and Lin Xiaolong, souls seemingly ejected from their bodies, were petrified!

    <i>SLASH SLASH! </i>Before they could rise, before any cries could escape their throats, the azure sword rays shed across their necks! Another two heads toppled, lining up with Ning Bei¡¯s, all of them frozen in a perpetual state of terror, gazing at the Ancestral Sword Hall. Their eyes, unable to find peace even in death!

    Yun Xiao approached nonchntly, casually plucking a tree branch and staining it with their blood, scribbled two characters on the ground¡ªYun Xiao!

    ¡°Why leave your name? Eager for everyone to know you killed these three, are you?¡± Blue Star stared, puzzled.

    ¡°This,¡± Yun Xiao uttered, ¡°is called fishing.¡± With those words, he vaulted gracefully, vanishing into the depths of the night sky.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside a humble thatched cottage...

    Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng of Sword Heaven, his hair a cascade of white, tucked himself into a dim corner, his face ashen, andrge beads of sweat traversed his cheeks, pattering as they struck the floor.

    This location, isted from the other pces and towers of Sword Heaven, shielded his low, anguished cries from any eavesdroppers. Rarely did anyone visit this cottage on ordinary days! Nobody knew why, all these years, the Sword Lord chose to reside alone here, detaching himself from the affairs of Sword Heaven. Even the few who ventured this way were swiftly turned away...

    "Brother Feng!" A beautifully robed woman approached, urgency etching her features. Quickly, she bent down, perching beside him and took the Sword Lord¡¯s hand in hers. Her face revealed a tapestry of anguish, and tears fell like gentle raindrops, sshing softly upon the floor.

    This was Xiao Yu, Madame Xiao.

    "Is the bone poison acting up again?" Her voice was soft,den with sorrow.

    "It¡¯s nothing! Nothing..." The Sword Lord''s body convulsed as he gasped for air, extending his hand and pleading, "Wine! Bring me wine!"

    Madame Xiao handed him a wine pot. He snatched it, gulping down the contents fervently, not stopping until his body flushed red, white steam emanating from his pores. Finally, he exhaled a long breath.

    "It''s okay now, my love." The Sword Lord sat up, extending a hand to draw Xiao Yu to him, enveloping her in his embrace.

    "Brother Feng..." Xiao Yu¡¯s arms wound around him. Tears, relentless, continued their path downward. She wept, "It''s almost a decade, isn¡¯t it? Every time I witness your agony, it feels as though my heart is being torn asunder. Why must the heavens punish you, a man of such virtue, in this way? It¡¯s so unjust!"

    "Xiao Yu!" He pinched her cheek gently, eyes brimming with adoration, whispering, "Why speak of this now, when time is so precariously precious? After tonight, only two days remain! I only need to endure one more outbreak of the bone poison."

    "Mhm!" She nodded obediently. Her demeanor contrasted starkly with the authoritative, icy matriarch of Sword Heaven to outsiders, rendered almost unrecognizable. She embraced the Sword Lord, whispering softly, "Did you hear about tonight¡¯s incident at the Spirit Treasure Walk?"

    "I''ve just dealt with it," the Sword Lord responded, his gaze holding a peculiar light.

    "How''s it looking?" Xiao Yu asked, anxiety twisting her elegant features.

    "Well..." the Sword Lord, Lin Qingfeng, began with an air of bemusement. "It''s safe to say we''ve got ourselves quite the catch! He managed to shut those old fogies up all on his own, something I hadn¡¯t anticipated."

    "And the implications?" Her voice barely hovered above a whisper, tension evident.

    "Minimal impact," the Sword Lord reassured, pulling her tighter into his embrace. "After all, our littleb rat has tost three days. The day after tomorrow, once he takes the final dose, we can make our move. His current strength isn¡¯t near potent enough to spiral out of my control." Pausing, he nced out of the window at the brilliant moon, its glow casting shadows over the bustling Sea of Swords beyond. For a moment, he seemed lost in thought. "A decade of toiling with life and death, Xiao Yu, and in two days, finally, release."

    The tiny thatched room bore silent witness to their sorrow.

    "Your father¡¯s Sword Heart Spring, it can build a bridge ofpatibility between your body and theb rat''s sword bone. And the Heart Devouring Gu, it works subtly, like boiling a frog in warm water. It can, within three days, separate his sword bone from his flesh... He won¡¯t notice the process, will he?" Xiao Yu asked.

    "For the first two days, he won¡¯t feel a thing, and if he does, it¡¯ll only be on that final day. However, once the third day arrives, I can forcibly control him. No need to fear him shattering his sword in suicide," Lin Qingfeng mused.

    "That¡¯s a relief! To have such a rareb rat shatter his own sword in suicide would be such a waste," she nodded, wiping away a stray tear.

    "Exactly! Not a single mistake can be made! He must willingly submit to my charismatic personality! Trust me... This entire act as a <i>true</i> Sword Immortal is but for the two day of the Guying dormant!" As he spoke, a mischievous grin carved its way across Lin Qingfeng''s face, his voice a low rumble of amusement.

    "You¡¯re quite the actor. That p left me dumbfounded," Xiao Yu chuckled, yanking at his beard while casting him a yful scowl.

    "I apologize, my dear! You''ve endured much these few days," Lin Qingfeng spoke gently, stroking her hair. "I know it hasn¡¯t been easy."

    "You better know! I¡¯ve stood by you faithfully for twenty years, andtely, I¡¯ve even had to put up with that insufferable Ning Yan! Once this is over, you¡¯re ughtering her, I insist!" Xiao Yu¡¯s voice was a sweet venom.

    "Alright, alright!" Lin Qingfeng chuckled warmly, "Once I disable her, you can do the honors, how about it?"

    "Now that¡¯s more like it!" With a single nod, Xiao Yu¡¯s dark mood lifted slightly, her voice dripping with disdain, "A woman who bore a child for a rural peasant, and she dares hold her head so high? Who does she think would take a liking to her? Ridiculous!"

    "Xiao Yu, you¡¯ve sacrificed so much for me over the years, giving me children and standing by me. How could I ever shortchange you in this lifetime? To find a good partner in life is no easy feat!" His voice trembled with genuine emotion as he held her.

    "We¡¯re old husband and wife, no need for such talk," she replied, her gaze soft yet teasing, "Why not offer something a bit more tangible?"

    "Tangible?" His brow arched in yful inquiry.

    "Lin Qingfeng, p me," Xiao Yu suddenly requested.

    "Pardon?" he blinked in genuine surprise.

    Suddenly blushing, she whispered, "I¡¯ve suddenly discovered that a little suffering can be quite... exhrating."

    He coughed awkwardly.

    In the following moments, the tiny hut seemed to shake with amorous cries, the details respectfully left unspilled. Afterwards...

    Lin Qingfeng turned to his wife. He inhaled deeply, his gaze aze with an untamed fervor. "Once I switch to a youthful set of sword bones, that hundredyer Sword Aura will be mine."

 Chapter 099 - Sovereign Dragon Realm Genius!

    <h4>Chapter 099 - Sovereign Dragon Realm Genius!</h4>

    Sarcastically, Xiao Yu rolled her eyes, articting each word with a mix of exasperation and teasing, ¡°To secure the allegiance of the littleb rat, you bestowed upon him Sun Moon Divine Light, a sword technique exclusive to the Sword Lords. If the Star grade Sword Soul isn¡¯t yours, then whose could it be?¡±

    Frankly, Lin Qingfeng¡¯s disyed magnanimity over these few days almost convinced her. Almost. Only she, his wife, discerned the anomalies, the illogical patterns of his behavior.

    In his youthful days, Lin Qingfeng was candid, audacious, daring to challenge the heavens themselves. Battling the Forbidden Tower during those times would have made sense.

    But now... A Sword Lord who sought refuge in a humble thatched cottage due to a poisoned sword bone, who dared not show his face under the veil of night... How could it be possible? Even his own son was kept in the dark, to say nothing of others.

    ¡°Heh heh!¡± The Sword Lord suddenly chuckled.

    ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡± Xiao Yu asked, her own smile an amused inquiry.

    ¡°The Sun Moon Divine Light technique I granted him is but a fragment, unable to unleash its true power. It''s a sword technique in shape but not in substance, a mere show!¡± the Sword Lord dered.

    Xiao Yu sighed. ¡°Be a decent person, will you...? You¡¯re no longer young, yet you still indulge in these petty schemes. You¡¯re on the verge of usurping someone¡¯s Sword Bone and yet you still don¡¯t allow them a glimpse of a top-tier sword technique? Are you afraid he''ll master it in three days?¡±

    ¡°I am not afraid! But when I do things, I leave no room for errors!¡± the Sword Lord retorted calmly.

    ¡°Let¡¯s not kid ourselves, your acting was quite impressive! Now, throughout the Sea of Swords, you¡¯ve cultivated an image of a magnanimous lover of talent,¡± Xiao Yu said, her eyes rolling once more in wry amusement.

    ¡°Love my foot! I only love myself and my family. There¡¯s only so much energy in one''s life, why should I waste it on a stranger? If he helps me topple the Forbidden Tower, would Sword Heaven still bear the name Lin? Perhaps it will be renamed Yun!¡± the Sword Lord asserted.

    ¡°Outsiders will always remain outsiders! Only those bound by blood are family, our own people!¡± Xiao Yu said, ¡°This youngster could never dream that on the day of the Sword Soul test, there would be one final twist, could he?¡±

    Was the Sword Lord vehemently protecting the prodigy? No way! Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower were as thick as thieves! Xiao Yu, Lin Chen, Lin Lin, Xiao Xing''er, and Holy Son Chu... they were all family.

    ¡°You¡¯re right!¡± Suddenly, a deep voice pierced through from outside.

    ¡°Brother Tian?¡± The Sword Lord squinted into the darkness.

    Out there, in the ck of night, stood a silhouette, blending seamlessly with the nocturnal curtain, his entire being wrapped in enigma. His pitch-ck eyes, akin to dark ethereal mes in the enduring night, fiercely aze, with his majestic power swirling around him like a ck, furious dragon, seemingly able to shroud the night itself.

    ¡°Brother, you¡¯re here?¡± Xiao Yu¡¯s eyes sparkled with delight.

    ¡°I came to have a drink with Lil Feng.¡± The man in ck stated simply.

    ¡°I¡¯ll get the wine; you two chat!¡± Xiao Yu smiled radiantly.

    In the courtyard, two men sat opposite each other, one with ck hair, the other white.

    ¡°It''s been ten years. Congrattions, you¡¯re about to break free.¡± The man raised his cup.

    ¡°Brother Tian.¡± The Sword Lord lifted his own, ¡°A thousand drinks are too few when sworn sword brothers meet. Brother, this is for you!¡±

    ¡°To brotherhood!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Wind Listening Pavilion, Yun Xiao sat within the ancient bronze coffin.

    ¡°Late Origin Core Realm!¡± Yun Xiao eximed. He''d really hit the jackpot after robbing three of the Sea of Swords Great Noble Families dry and acquiring 5,000,000 Spirit Stones.

    After <i>bitterly</i> cultivating for two hours, he finally managed to meld another five Divine Seas into his Origin Core, enabling it to achieve the third cycle. Its size was now triple its original!

    However, Yun Xiao realized that as his realm elevated, the Spirit Stones and Heavenly Dao Sariras he needed multiplied!

    ¡°5,000,000 Spirit Stones may seem like a lot, but I really am a ck hole when ites to resources...¡±

    What seemed like sudden wealth, would still end in poverty within a few days!

    ¡°Is the path of immortal cultivation, which is just killing, plundering treasures, and breaking through... really that simple?¡± Yun Xiao mused with a faint smile.

    ¡°Trash, what are you trying toprehend this time?¡± Blue Star asked with disdain.

    ¡°I feel a bit uneasy!¡± Yun Xiao admitted awkwardly.

    ¡°In the early stages of cultivation, it¡¯s essentially the umtion of magic power. The Dragon Spring, Divine Sea, Origin Core, and even theter Sovereign Dragon Realm, it¡¯s all the same! Only when you progress further, gradually involving yourself with the Immortal Dao, Enlightenment, and Heavenly Laws will it be somewhat difficult. For now, you just keep soaring.¡± Blue Star snickered maliciously.

    "What happens if I advance too quickly and something goes wrong?" Yun Xiao asked. Truth be told, it was all happening a bit too rapidly for his liking, and he fancied tapping the brakes!

    "What happens? Well, nothing we can do, I guess... Red Moon and I will finish our banquet, split the baggage, and gallivant away, carefree as the wind!" Blue Star responded, hands perched confidently on its hips.

    "..." Yun Xiao''s mouth fell open at the crassness of the joke.

    This was his second day at the Sea of Swords! Just tonight alone, he had broken through two stages in session, even squeezing in a murderous spree and purchasing a magic treasure armor in between.

    "Life''s been quite the thrill, hasn''t it? Every day''s a spectacle. Is this the path of reincarnation set by the Creator Immortal?" Yun Xiao mused. He could only concede¡ªit was incredibly fast-paced!

    "Ah well, damn it all! I''ve died once before; death and I are old acquaintances now. Who cares about the rest? If gods stand in my way, I shall y them. If demons block my path, they too shall perish!" With those thoughts, Yun Xiao''s spirit soared, unshackled.

    "Wasn''t it touching when that old man fed you those little Gu bugs?" Blue Star chuckled, a cheeky grin adorning its features.

    "Deeply touching!" Yun Xiao responded with a chillyugh, picking up the ck sword manual before him. "Damn him to hell, after ying my part so well in this drama, after all this, at least give me aplete manual, no?"

    A mere nce was all it took to tell him that the manual was far from genuine, a mere prop. Practicing from it could well send him to an early grave!

    "How ruthless!" Ye Tiance, Lin Qingfeng¡ªeach had their own vor of vicious.

    Yun Xiao was gaining quite the education!

    "Still ogling that sham?" Blue Star scoffed.

    Yun Xiao burst into a sly smile, "I can fill in what''s missing, make it real! Perhaps even make it stronger!"

    "What, really...? You might actually be a genius!" Blue Star said, a little surprised.

    What was a genius? This was a true, unbeatable prodigy!

    Yun Xiao could flip a page in a single breath, his eyes flickering over the sword manual. In no time at all, he closed the manual.

    "Not filling in the nks?" Blue Star asked.

    "I''ve learned it."

    With a nonchnt toss from Yun Xiao, the sword manual disintegrated into fragments, cascading downward with a rustle.

    "You''ve learned a Star grade sword technique manual, after a single look?" Blue Star questioned, eyes bulging in disbelief.

    ¡°Indeed! Like you said, this is the rebirth of the Creator Immortal!¡± Yun Xiao spoke faintly, a boundless divine light erupting from his eyes.

    Blue Star and Red Moon exchanged stunned nces. "Our brother... is even more frightening than we imagined...¡±

    <i>KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK! </i>Suddenly, it appeared there was someone at the door.

    Yun Xiao stowed away the coffin and swung open the door.

    Under the moonlight, a young girl, dressed in a goose-yellow skirt, stood at the threshold. Her legs were well-rounded, skin as white as snow, eyes slightly reddened, a pitiful sight to behold.

    ¡°Out with it, if you have something to say.¡± Yun Xiao said, unimpressed.

    ¡°Over at Jade Sun Tower, everyone¡¯s talking about you!¡± Lin Lin lifted her head, her eyes trembling as they met his, lightly biting her red lip.

    ¡°What are they saying?¡± Yun Xiao inquired.

    ¡°They¡¯ve warmed up to you a bit, but they''re still unwilling to fight life and death against the Forbidden Tower for your sake. The Ning Ancestor proposed that our Sword Heaven negotiate with the Forbidden Tower, to see if there¡¯s a chance to protect you peacefully!¡± Lin Lin uttered through gritted teeth.

    ¡°Oh?¡± Yun Xiao was somewhat surprised. He hadn¡¯t expected that within Sword Heaven, while those at the top showed their fangs, those below were somewhat swayed by him, sheathing their swords. The Ning Family? Interesting!

    ¡°So? Why are you telling me this?¡± Yun Xiao asked her with a smile.

    ¡°I... I want to apologize to you!¡± Lin Lin confessed nervously.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°I was deceived by Brother Chu, and spoke many sarcastic words, but that wasn¡¯t my true intention. The more I think about it now, the more I feel that my father also has his difficulties...¡± Lin Lin admitted, her jaw tight.

    ¡°Your dad really is in a tight spot,¡± Yun Xiao chuckled.

    ¡°Hmm!¡± Lin Lin, tense, asked him, ¡°So, do you ept my apology?¡±

    ¡°Sure.¡± Yun Xiao responded.

    ¡°Just like that? Why?¡± Lin Lin asked, dumbfounded.

    ¡°Because to me, you¡¯re something that can either exist or not, why should I care about what you think?¡± Yun Xiao exined.

    Lin Lin froze. ¡°You don¡¯t like me? If you didn''t like me, why did you peep at me...¡± she stated resentfully, fingers pinched together.

    ¡°I like you?¡±

    <i>BAM!</i> Yun Xiao swiftly kicked her into the lotus pond, then shut the door. Peace atst!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The following day dawned, faint with the light of promise yet unfilled.

    "Lil Bei! Lil Qian! Lil Long!" At the entrance of the Ancestral Sword Hall, Lin Chen, the youthful swordsman with a sword strapped to his back, stood with eyes blood-red, gazing upon three severed heads on the ground.

    "Who did this?!" His voice was a gale, turning to those beside him.

    "Chen... Brother Chen..." Ning Jing¡¯s finger, trembling as a leaf in a breeze, pointed to two blood-red characters staining the earth.

    "Yun Xiao!" Lin Chen''s expression twisted, a manifestation of dark wrath, as he swiftly unbuckled the sheath from his back, plunged through the crowd, and sped towards Wind Listening Pavilion with murderous intent.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Jade Sun Tower, the top brass of Sword Heaven gathered, faces flushed in heated disagreement.

    "End him outright to quell the fury of the Sea of Swords! The demise of the Azure Kite Sea is enough to brand Sword Heaven with a century¡¯s worth of infamy on our ount!" the Lin Ancestor of Sword Heaven asserted. He was the second uncle of the Sword Lord and known to others as Second Uncle Lin.

    "Imbued with the power of a hundredyers of Sword Aura, and with battle prowess at Establishment Origin Core Realm, he''s but a step away from ascending to the Sovereign Dragon Realm just like Lin Chen, bing a prodigy admired even in the Heavenly Realm! As long as he¡¯s protected, Sword Heaven could stand shoulder to shoulder with the Forbidden Tower! We cannot kill him!" the Ning Ancestor said from the other side, his gold teeth back in ce, providing at least a veneer of confidence.

    "You old fogey! You sure as hell didn''t think like that yesterday!" Second Uncle Lin¡¯s eyes red, a tempest of anger surging within.

    "Second Uncle..." the Ning Ancestor began, casting a nce towards his son, Ning Que, "After the incident at Spirit Treasure Walk, I''ve turned it over in my mind, feeling that we should give this unparalleled genius a chance! While it''s true that Yun Xiao harbors enmity with the Forbidden Tower... we, the dignified Sword Heaven, surely cannot forsake him just because a disciple has personal grievances, right?"

    The Ning Ancestor added with a tactical pause, "What I propose is that we observe for a few days! Isn¡¯t Ye Guying harboring grudges against Yun Xiao? He will exit his seclusion the day after tomorrow; let them settle their scores, and we won''t have to take action ourselves. Preserving our wise leadership is paramount!"

    "Patience, esteemed colleagues, mere days are nothing to Sword Heaven. Let us watch and see how far Yun Xiao can truly go," Ning Que dered, having learned a lesson from the deception of Holy Son Chu, and choosing a path neither of support nor of trampling.

    "Who knows what devilry that Lin Qingfeng can conjure in these few days!" Second Uncle Lin heaved a sigh.

    "What else is left for him to do, engage in a life-and-death duel with the Forbidden Tower Lord, Xiao Changtian? In the end, the quarrels of the young should be settled by the young!" the Ning Ancestor stated, nonchntly.

    "Please, do not misunderstand, esteemed ones. Our Ning Family is not siding with Yun Xiao. Rather, we propose that since the Forbidden Tower has yet to press us, we need not hastily offer our talented disciple up on a tter. It would be quite the disgrace," Ning Que spoke earnestly.

    "Yet, you continually mention him as a talented disciple. Have you not already recognized him in your heart?" the Murong Ancestor, Murong Li, questioned coldly.

    "What else? Aside from Lin Chen, Ye Guying, and Chen Xi, who among these three prodigies could y Xiao He and Fan Tu? I am no match for him either!" Having witnessed events in the Spirit Treasure Walk firsthand, Ning Que¡¯s sentiments ran especially deep.

    "We''ll cross that bridge when wee to it," Murong Li lifted his teacup, sipping at it leisurely.

    At that moment, a woman in green robes crashed into the Jade Sun Tower atop her Sovereign Sword, sending tables and chairs flying.

    "Ning Jing, what''s gotten into you, acting so reckless?" The Ning Ancestor gazed sternly at his granddaughter.

    "Ning Bei, along with Murong Qian and Lin Xiaolong, they''ve been killed at the Ancestor Sword Hall!" Ning Jing cried out in a mournful tone.

 Chapter 100 - Killing With a Borrowed Knife

    <h4>Chapter 100 - Killing With a Borrowed Knife</h4>

    "What?!" Second Uncle Lin, Ancestor Ning, Ning Que, and Murong Li jolted to their feet, eyes wide with horror and disbelief! These three Sword Princelings were their descendants!

    The words struck them like a brutal bolt of lightning, smoke nearly billowing from their every orifice, particrly the older generation who were on the verge of heart attacks born from blood flowing in reverse.

    "Who did this?" For a moment, dozens of powerful beings from Sword Heaven, their faces contorted with rage, nearly in unison demanded an answer from Ning Jing. Every single one of them radiated a murderous aura that threatened to engulf the very heavens.

    Three Sword Princelings! Of the five in Sword Heaven, more than half were now abruptly taken away. Just moments ago, they werementing the overnight loss of three Heaven Chosen and two powerhouses in the Forbidden Tower!

    "I don''t know... but there were two blood characters left on the ground!" Ning Jing, turning to her father Ning Que, uttered shakily, "Yun Xiao!"

    "Murder with a signature? Such brazen audacity?" Second Uncle Lin grumbled, his anger threatening his very wellbeing.

    "He massacred in the Spirit Treasure Walkst night and returned to the Ancestor Sword Hall to kill again? Just because Lil Bei ambushed him this morning? Such unbridled malevolence..." Ancestor Ning¡¯s face twisted with unbridled rage, seething in every crease of his ancient face. He had been convinced by Ning Que the previous night, but everything that unfolded now, simply pped him in the face.

    "Everyone, calm down! It could also be a frame, pushing us to kill Yun Xiao! Let¡¯s find Yun Xiao first and rify the situation!" Ning Que spoke in a grave tone.

    "Dad, Brother Chen has already stormed towards Wind Listening Pavilion!" A frantic look painted Ning Jing¡¯s face, "You must hurry!"

    "Lin Chen?!"

    Everyone was well aware of Lin Chen¡¯s temperament! These younger brothers and sisters had cultivated alongside him; witnessing this spectacle, what further cmity might this foreshadow?

    "Ning Jing, you first help collect the bodies of your little brother and the other two... No matter who it is, your father will find them and avenge Ning Bei!" Ning Que''s eyes zed red with a mixture of agony and fury.

    With those words, thisrge group of Sword Heaven powerhouses mounted their Sovereign Swords, soaring toward the Wind Listening Pavilion with the wind whispering threats of vengeance beneath their feet.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Sword Heaven, the thatched cottage! The sun perched at three sticks'' height above the horizon!

    "They''ve been killed?" The Sword Lord was roused from his groggy slumber by Xiao Yu''s mor. He¡¯d overindulged the previous night!

    Others dared not approach this thatched cottage. Consequently, by the time the couple received the news, it was already somewhat stale.

    "With Lil Chen''s temperament, he''ll certainly duel that little whelp to the death! That boy possesses a hundredyer Sword Aura; I fear for his safety. Hurry, go!" Urgency colored Xiao Yu''s words.

    "Lil Chen is in trouble?" The Sword Lord shook his head, "Our son has a fiftyyer Sword Aura, plus two formidable Demon Cores. Whether it''s Thousand Waters Lure or Ghostly Inferno, both are demon magics of 5,000-year-old Demon Emperors, capable of protecting his Sword Soul! Coupled with his cultivation in the Sovereign Dragon Realm and his Upper grade swordsmanship... what I worry about is Yun Xiao getting into trouble!"

    "Neither can afford trouble! Any mishap for either would mean all previous efforts have gone to waste..." Xiao Yu spoke through gritted teeth.

    Just who was it, inserting a stick into their wheel spokes at this crucial moment, prompting this sh between the two prodigies?

    Both Sword Lord and Xiao Yu furrowed their brows!

    Even as they spoke, the pair had already mounted their Sovereign Swords, heading toward the Wind Listening Pavilion.

    "That Sun Moon Divine Light is an iplete scripture! It possesses only form without sword intent. I hope Yun Xiao doesn¡¯t utilize it recklessly, otherwise, his vulnerabilities will be exposed!" As the Sword Lord rode the wind and cleaved the waves, his eyebrows knit together tightly. "Who¡¯s causing this chaos? Who''s getting tired of living?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Wind Listening Pavilion!

    As dawn broke, the whooshing sounds of swords whisked through the air, reaching Yun Xiao¡¯s ears.

    ¡°Taking their sweet time, haven¡¯t they? Those three corpses must be nice and cool by now.¡± A cold smirk slithered across his face, eyes indifferent, as he vigorously stepped out of the east tower!

    Upon the courtyard and over the lotus pond, a youth with a sword on his back abruptly descended.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The pond trembled, spurting a grand disy of water as a dense sword energy swept across, shredding hundreds of withered lotuses into mere dust!

    With long hair fluttering wildly, the sword-bearing youth trod upon the water''s surface, his eyes swirling with turbulent sword energy, fixed fiercely upon Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Brother?¡± Lin Lin, startled, emerged to see Lin Chen, his eyes aze with a ravenous fury. Her heart skipped a beat, promptly inquiring, ¡°What¡¯s happened to you?¡±

    ¡°Die!¡± Lin Chen articted that single word and, wrapped in the majestic power of the Sovereign Dragon Realm, ferociously lunged toward Yun Xiao!

    In the Sovereign Dragon Realm, the Origin Core morphed into a divine dragon. However, this wasn¡¯t some illusionary Dragon Spring, but a true dragon with tangible form.

    Under the robust magic power of the Sovereign Dragon Realm, Lin Chen seemed entwined by a divine dragon of sacred, white light¡ªimperious, majestic, an unassable sovereign!

    ¡°Brother?¡± Lin Lin stood agape.

    ¡°Lin Chen!¡± At that moment, a dark figure interposed herself before Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Ning Yan?¡± Upon seeing her, Lin Chen¡¯s chest heaved, his fury and murderous intent intensifying.

    ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing? Yun Xiao is the Young Sword Lord! How dare you, without cause, assault your superior?¡± Ning Yan¡¯s eyes narrowed, her voice sternly projecting. All through the previous night, she contemted departing to avoid the impending storm, but in the end, she chose to stay. She came to Yun Xiao early this morning, intending to advise the boy to keep a low profile in the uing days, but upon arrival, she encountered Lin Chen¡¯s aggression.

    ¡°Without cause? Assaulting my superior?¡± Lin Chen, hearing these phrases, unleashed an even more frigid and eerie chuckle, ¡°Ning Yan, you¡¯ve caused multiple deaths!¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Ning Yan stood bewildered.

    ¡°As Lil Bei¡¯s aunt, you brought back a murderous devil, costing him, Lil Qian, and Lil Long their lives!¡± Lin Chen spoke, his voice venomous and fierce.

    "Brother Bei and the others?" Lin Lin''s voice quivered, "They''re dead? That can''t be..."

    "Lin Chen, are you joking?" Ning Yan''s scalp tingled with horror.

    "If you don¡¯t believe me, visit the Ancestral Sword Hall! Their blood, having flowed all night, has dried!" Lin Chen stared intently at Yun Xiao. "Ning Yan, you who have wrought disaster upon Sword Heaven and the Sea of Swords, if you don¡¯t step aside, if you continue to shield this criminal, I will kill even you!"

    "Do you have any evidence?" Ning Yan red, demanding an answer.

    "After the murder, the name Yun Xiao was left at the scene!"

    Ning Yan suddenly whipped her head toward Yun Xiao, sharply inquiring, "What''s going on?"

    Yun Xiao snickered coldly. "Isn''t it obvious? It¡¯s simply a case of killing by a borrowed knife."

    "Killing by a borrowed knife?" Ning Yan¡¯s eyelids twitched involuntarily.

    "There are too many in Sword Heaven who wish me dead, but always with someck of righteous cause, right? So, they pull this setup and framing trick, deceiving and inciting those without discernment into vengeful fury, thereby having me killed by another¡¯s hand," Yun Xiao exined indifferently.

    "Yun Xiao! If you have the courage to kill and leave your name, do you not have the courage to admit it?" Lin Chen growled lowly.

    "I know you wish me dead, if you want to fight, then let¡¯s fight, I will apany you to the end. Don¡¯t y these kinds of dirty tricks, it''s uninteresting!" Yun Xiao retorted, voice frigid.

    Having heard up to this point, Ning Yan had a guess in her mind!

    "Lin Chen, something is fishy about this matter. Don¡¯t act rashly. Wait until your father arrives and investigates it thoroughly! I believe he will bring justice to you and Lil Bei!" Ning Yan hastily implored.

    "You are Lil Bei¡¯s aunt, whom do you believe?" Lin Chen red at Ning Yan.

    "Judging the matter as it stands! In this matter, I believe Yun Xiao. His reputation in Sword Heaven has just begun to rise, there¡¯s no need for him to do this!" Ning Yan dered, gritting her teeth.

    "Brother, maybe we should investigate first?" Lin Lin also suggested.

    "Shut up!" Lin Chen growled softly, his eyes gazing at Yun Xiao, filled with surging sword energy.

    By this time, dozens of Sword Heaven¡¯s top brass had already arrived by Sovereign Swords from the Jade Sun Tower. Seeing that Lin Chen and Yun Xiao had not started fighting, they all exhaled in relief!

    Surrounded by the venerable ancestors of Sword Heaven, including Second Uncle Lin, Murong Li, and Ancestor Ning, along with Ning Que and several Great Sword Venerables, a tense atmosphere hummed through the air.

    Ning Que, attempting to inject a measure of calm into the gathering storm, spoke gently, "Lil Chen, we''ve discussed this matter and found it to be suspicious as well. Keep your cool for now, wait for your father''s arrival."

    Wait for his father? Lin Chen cast them all a frosty re. "My father treasures him like a jewel. Even if Yun Xiao were to massacre our entire Sword Heaven, would my father care? He doesn¡¯t give a shit about our well-being, only about keeping up appearances!"

    The ancestors exchanged helpless nces, finding no words to refute Lin Chen¡¯s bitter observation. They too had felt the sting of Lin Qingfeng''s p and harbored their own simmering resentment.

    Murong Li sighed heavily, his face etching regret. "Young Master Lin speaks the truth! Even if Yun Xiao retaliates maliciously, provocatively leaving his name at the scene, feigning ignorance now with no evidence against him, the Sword Lord would not punish him. It''s pitiful that the three will have died in vain!"

    Yun Xiao, his voice a chilling sneer, interjected, "Ancestor Murong, perhaps you¡¯re the killer? To target me, to force Sword Heaven to kowtow to the Forbidden Tower, you even murder your own granddaughter. How noble!"

    "Silence!" Murong Li retorted, blood boiling in instant rage.

    "Yun Xiao, you''re brave enough to kill people, but too afraid to admit it?" Lin Chen said fiercely.

    "If you insist that I did it, then fine I admit it! After all, you just want to find a reason to kill me. Does it matter whether or not I¡¯m the murderer? It doesn¡¯t. From the moment I entered Sword Heaven, you''ve wanted me dead. Is ying these pretentious games interesting to you?" Yun Xiao snarled back.

    Lin Chen, consumed by a red haze of anger, dered vehemently, "Yes, you''re right! I will annihte you! If I say it was you who killed them, then it was you who killed them! Now I will avenge my younger brothers and sister!!"

    His fury frothing and vision thoroughly reddened, Lin Chen¡¯s thoughts were crystal clear. This man, with his terrifyingly formidable talents, must not be allowed another day, another moment of cultivation. Every additional breath Yun Xiao took introduced another variable into the equation.

    Was he the murderer? Did it matter anymore?

    Lin Chen deemed it unimportant! As long as he had an excuse, the decision was made¡ªYun Xiao had to die!

    "Lin Chen, wait for your father! Yun Xiao doesn''t need to stain his hand with blood, especially when it''s being orchestrated by another''s hand!" Ning Yan urged, her heart thrummed anxiously, yet she stood, an unyielding barrier before Lin Chen''s wrath.

    "Scram, wretched woman! You are shameless!" Lin Chen, tempestuous, his garments fluttering in heated turmoil, propelled himself towards Yun Xiao, as his toes lightly kissed theke''s surface.

    Ning Yan, her expression steeped in horrified surprise, barely had time to gasp before Lin Chen, with a frenzied swing, brought his scabbard down upon her shoulder with a thunderous crash.

    <i>CRACK! </i>Ning Yan was violently hurled aside, her arm snapping with an audible, grisly break. She screamed, a sound swallowed by the walls she collided with, her head a blossoming red of mingling pain and blood.

    "Yun Xiao, flee..." she managed to gurgle through the blood cascading from her mouth, internal wounds weeping in silent agony. Ironically, her brother''s words echoed in her faltering mind. Failing to escape this maelstrom meant bloodshed was imminent.

    "Aunt Ning!" Yun Xiao spared her a poignant gaze. "Unless you repent to my Senior Sister Zhao, don¡¯t imagine you can vindicate yourself..."

    "..." Silence hung from Ning Yan, pained, pondering¡ªwas this really the thanks she got for taking a hit for him?

    "Be cautious!" In this dire moment, seeing Yun Xiao not taking to his heels, she could only warn, her heart whispering prayers for the Sword Lord, Lin QIngfeng, to arrive soon.

    "Lin Chen...!" A collective intake of breath held Sword Heaven in its grasping ws as Lin Chen, undeterred, poised to strike. Everyone, from Ancestor Ning to Ning Que, hesitated.

    "Let him kill if he''s so intent on it!"

    "The Sword Lord surely won¡¯t harshly punish his own son, right? Especially considering he¡¯s his sole heir, and a talent destined to surpass him at that."

    "With Yun Xiao''s demise, the Sea of Swords will be pacified!"

    Such were the thoughts that flitted, swift and dark, through the minds of the assembly.

    <i>KLANG! </i>In the aftermath of striking Ning Yan, Lin Chen, a manifestation of lethal intent, now stood before Yun Xiao. He regarded the youth draped in white, a chilling silence seeping into the air, before abruptly drawing a lustrous Sword Soul from his sheathe. "Let''s go!"

 Chapter 101 - Unjust Bullying!

    <h4>Chapter 101 - Unjust Bullying!</h4>

    A gentle hum filled the air. Lin Chen unsheathed the white Sword Soul, his sword sheath thudding against the ground, a faint azure light shimmering from within.

    Yun Xiao had heard of this¡ªthe Azure Kite Sword Sheath. It was a wondrous item from the Heavenly Realm, vastly valuable, equating to at least ten Azure Spirit Cauldrons. In the entire Sea of Swords, only one existed.

    It possessed the ability to nurture Sword Souls. A Sword Soul left within it for an extended period might experience a jump in its quality!

    Lin Chen was the brightest young individual in Sword Heaven, a true swordsmanship prodigy of the Sea of Swords, surpassing other Sword Princelings. His light attribute Holy Radiance Sword Soul was ranked Upper grade, making it one of the highest quality Sword Souls in the Sea of Swords. It even surpassed Ye Guying¡¯s Mid grade Sword Soul and was second only to Yun Xiao¡¯s Star grade Sword Soul!

    ¡°These Sword Rings... must contain Demon Cores of at least five thousand years old!¡±

    Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Rings, in contrast, merely contained thousand-year-old Demon Cores! He needed only a nce to realize how overpowering Lin Chen''s two Sword Rings were!

    One blue, one red, both brimming with colossal demonic power and chaotic demon magic. Under Lin Chen¡¯s will, one Sword Ring faintly transformed into a blue dragon coiling around the sword, while the other morphed into a two-headed me snake¡ªclearly the forms of those two five-thousand-year-old Demon Emperors!

    The power of the Sword Rings, while distinct from Sword Aura, was not to be underestimated!

    Lin Chen, with fiftyyers of Sword Aura, wasplemented by these two five-thousand-year Sword Rings.

    <i>HUM! </i>Harnessing the power of the Sovereign Dragon Realm and holding the Holy Radiance Sword Soul pointed towards Yun Xiao, the demon magic within the Sword Rings activated automatically. The blue Sword Ring turned into a surging tidal wave, wrapping around the Holy Radiance Sword Soul, while the red one ignited, enveloping Lin Chen entirely, transforming him into a deity of water and fire!

    ¡°Lin Chen, I presume the three Sword Princelings were killed by you, weren¡¯t they? You¡¯re really going all out to annihte me, huh?¡± Yun Xiao uttered with a frosty smirk.

    ¡°Sure, right. It was I who killed them!¡± Lin Chen said sarcastically, not bothering to entertain him any longer. The fury within him had already peaked. No sooner had his voice fallen than he whisked forth the Holy Radiance Sword Soul, shing it toward Yun Xiao with a tumultuous wave of might!

    ¡°Hold on, Yun Xiao, until Brother Feng arrives!¡± Ning Yan whispered a prayer within her heart. Just two days prior, she had been Yun Xiao¡¯s Dao Protector, yet now, as these two prodigies shed, to intervene would be to court death.

    <i>KLANG KLANG! </i>Lin Chen, harnessing the power of the Sovereign Dragon Realm, funneled his might into the Holy Radiance Sword Soul, inciting the Demon Cores to unleash their malevolent energy!

    He appeared abruptly before Yun Xiao, his sword poised to decapitate. When the Sword Soul shed down, a zing demonic magic assaulted Yun Xiao, and that Holy Radiance Sword Soul, as heavy as a coursing river, threatened to swallow him whole like a surging sea.

    ¡°Quite strong!¡± With a fierce, swift movement, Yun Xiao parried using the hundredyer Sword Aura of his Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    <i>BOOM! </i>When the two Sword Souls collided, a thunderous roar echoed, not the expected scraping!

    Lin Chen¡¯s strike sent Yun Xiao hurtling backward, his white-robed form mming into a wooden pir. The column splintered with a thunderous crash, causing several rooms of the East Tower to copse.

    ¡°His Sword Ring is forming a protective veil, shielding the surface of his Sword Soul and preventing my Sword Soul from shattering it?¡± A shiver ran through Yun Xiao¡¯s heart. A worthy opponent atst! Throughout his cultivation journey, a tempestuous path of frenzied ughter, even Ye Tiance had been rapidly dismantled by him!

    ¡°Lin Chen has been prepared all along!¡±

    ¡°That demon magic, Thousand Waters Lure actually nullified the sharpness of the hundredyer Sword Aura!¡±

    ¡°Lin Chen¡¯s magic power is somewhat more profound!¡±

    ¡°He''s afraid of Yun Xiao ascending to the Sovereign Dragon Realm. So, he''s taking the initiative to strike now. Could it be...¡±

    As thoughts raced through the crowd, a sudden tremor passed through their hearts, whispers echoing in hushed voices, ¡°Could it really be Lin Chen who killed Ning Bei and the others, using this as a pretext to exterminate Yun Xiao?¡±

    As their thoughts spiraled into chaos, Lin Chen, sword gleaming menacingly, unleashed a flurry of swift strikes! Having suppressed Yun Xiao with one sword stroke, empowered by his Sovereign Dragon Realm power and demon magic, he pressed toward Yun Xiao once more!

    <i>Upper grade Flying Sword technique¡ªHoly Light Assault, 18 shes!</i>

    Employing a light attribute Sword Soul, in tandem with this kind of light attribute Flying Sword technique, was a veritable weapon of murder!

    This technique, akin to Ten-Step Scale yet intensified manifold, was unleashed as Lin Chen extended his hand, the Flying Sword shing brilliantly eighteen times in mid-air, reaching the pinnacle of speed!

    ¡°You''re truly domineering.¡± Yun Xiao uttered with a cold chuckle, the azure Flying Sword in his hand jetting forth, daring to meet Lin Chen''s sword with sword!

    <i>Ten-Step Scale!</i>

    Fourteen resounding echoes pierced the air!

    Single-handedly, Yun Xiao had not only mastered this Flying Sword technique but also daringly modified it, pushing its limits even further!

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH!</i> The Ten-Step Scale howled, its hundredyer Sword Aura surging skyward with a shrill, piercing cry, colliding vehemently with the nearby Holy Radiance Sword Soul.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Yet another thunderous explosion ensued!

    The two swords, shing and shuddering against each other, unleashed a forceful wave of magic power, causing the water in the lotus pond to ssh and sprinkle in all directions.

    "Yun Xiao, his Sword Aura is mighty, his sword technique versatile!"

    "But Lin Chen has better Sword Rings and a strong cultivation base to back him! Moreover, his Upper grade Flying Sword technique far surpasses the Ten-Step Scale..."

    During this rapid, fierce sh of Flying Swords, everyone thought Yun Xiao would capitte. However, following the violent collision, the Holy Radiance Sword Soul, although it managed to deflect the azure Flying Sword, failed to strike Yun Xiao, instead plunging into the east tower!

    <i>CRASH CRASH CRASH! </i>Amidst the sweep of the Thousand Water Lure and Ghostly Inferno demon magics, the entire east tower of the Wind Listening Pavilion copsed on the spot, with the powerful shockwave further propelling Yun Xiao backward, leaving him a tad disheveled.

    A sight dusted with both defeat and defiance!

    "To withstand two strikes from Lin Chen, Yun Xiao''s natural talent is truly remarkable! He''s four years younger than Lin Chen!"

    Although suppressed, Yun Xiao''s resilience still stirred a wave of murmurs and exmations.

    Witnessing such ughter at the Spirit Treasure Walk, apart from Ning Que who had seen with his own eyes, it was a first for everyone else to witness Yun Xiao inbat!

    A fourteen-step Ten-Step Scale? This was heaven-defying!

    However, this did nothing to daunt Lin Chen, whose momentum burgeoned even more fiercely! Retrieving his Holy Radiance Sword Soul with a cold smirk, he transformed into a phantom once again, mercilessly lunging at Yun Xiao.

    "You have some skills! But that''s all! If not for the hundredyer Sword Aura, you''d be dead already!"

    Lin Chen''s words fell, his form advanced, Sword Aura menacing, and struck out with another sh!

    Once again, another Top grade sword technique!

    <i>Palm Sword technique¡ªHeavenly Light Chasing Star!</i>

    Aligning his light-attributed Sword Soul with his sword technique, as he brandished his sword, light gleamed and shifted with explosive speed, turning him into a dazzling sun, unbearably blinding.

    <i>First Form, Heavenly Descent!</i>

    Lin Chen''s sword shed downward, its tip plummeting like a falling star, pointed directly at Yun Xiao¡¯s crown.

    "Every sword of yours reeks of animosity. How much do you despise me?" Yun Xiao chuckled. He held the three-foot azure de, each stroke soared like an azure dragon reaching for the heavens, spawning five dragon heads that ferociously snapped at the falling meteor!

    "I don''t despise you, I merely find you repugnant! Do you really think your insignificant me can rival the heavens?" Lin Chen scoffed. As he drew more power from his cultivation base, his swordy grew even more brutal!

    <i>BOOM! </i>With his Thousand Waters Lure, Lin Chen was able to neutralize the sharpness of Yun Xiao''s hundredyer Sword Aura. He took advantage of his superior magic power to restrain Yun Xiao!

    <i>CRACK! </i>The very stone floor Yun Xiao stood on shattered!

    "Lowly Sword Cultivator of Azure Spirit, kneel before me!!" Lin Chen once again asserted his dominance. In his frenzied state, his demon magic and sword intent descended once more.

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao hastily brandished his sword to resist this crushing strike!

    Lin Chen¡¯s force weighed down like a giant mountain!

    Yun Xiao had no choice but to dodge, leaving Lin Chen''s sword to strike nothing but air, forcing Yun Xiao to recklessly avoid, nearly stumbling to the ground!

    "So Yun Xiao, this is all the skill you''ve got?" Lin Chen coldly jeered, a murderous intent shing across his face.

    He once again marshaled his magic power, unleashing his grade Palm Sword technique!

    <i>Heavenly Light Chasing Star! Second Form, Sun Sword!</i>

    The light of his sword splintered, transforming into a sun disc, which made Lin Chen shine brilliantly like the sun, his radiance spanning ten thousand feet.

    In contrast, Yun Xiao looked as inconspicuous as the grass under this divine glimmer!

    The oue was clear!

    The crowd bore witness to this and concluded. Lin Chen would be victorious, Yun Xiao was fated to die!

    "The Sword Lord is yet toe..."

    Everyone coldly watched Lin Chen''s fatal sword strike aiming for Yun Xiao¡ªthe sword intent was unstoppable!

    "Lin Chen! If you continue to force me, I will fight back!" Although Yun Xiao was at a disadvantage, his eyes still burned fiercely!

    "Fight back?" Lin Chen sneered before bursting outughing. His sword aim intensified towards Yun Xiao¡¯s throat, at the same time he barked, "Go ahead, show me your unfriendly side!"

    "I was showing mercy since you''re the Sword Lord''s son! Also, the Sword Lord granted me a profound favor, that''s why I''ve been lenient! Don''t push your luck!" Yun Xiao roared, his eyes smoldering with fury.

    As his words rang out, everyone, including Second Uncle Lin and Murong Li, burst intoughter. Was he flustered? Who would speak such words in this position? Howughably insolent!

    When Lin Chen heard this, he too broke into hystericalughter. "Please, go ahead, kill me! If I die, it''s my bad luck, it has nothing to do with my father!"

    Yun Xiao, enveloped in the radiant onught of swordy, had no choice but to retreat relentlessly.

    Lin Chen, transforming into a scorching sun descending, unleashed the explosive might of his Sun Sword. His sword, akin to a brilliant sun, cast a looming shadow over Yun Xiao¡¯s head, while two formidable demon magics¡ªthe Thousand Waters Lure and Ghostly Inferno¡ªunleashed tumultuous seas and booming explosions, respectively, their lethal intent locked unyieldingly upon Yun Xiao!

    ¡°Yun Xiao, an orphan like you dares to kick up a fuss in my Sword Heaven?¡± Lin Chen''s voice dripped with scorn. ¡°So what if I bully you because you are rootless, drifting duckweed?¡±

    Lin Chen¡¯s murderous intent pressed down with his sword.

    ¡°Die, you fly!¡± With a ferocious yell, his sword thrust toward Yun Xiao¡¯s skull, seeking to pierce through!!

    ¡°Fine! Everyone has seen it! You forced me, showing no reason, leaving me no way to live!¡± Despite the frustration visible on Yun Xiao¡¯s face, the corners of his mouth unexpectedly curled into a mocking smile.

    Enough ying. The time was ripe. These people were all waiting to watch him die!

    At the instant when Lin Chen''s killing blow was merely a breath away, Yun Xiao, with his fingers pinching the violently surging Heaven Burial Sword Soul, shockingly swung it out while at point-nk range!

    In that split second, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul unleashed a blinding, azure light!!

    <i>KLANG! </i>A piercing, crisp sound suddenly exploded!

    Everyone was struck with a severe ear pain, instinctively covering their ears in astonishment!

    And in the brief moment when they were clutching their ears, they astonishingly saw a dazzling azure light soaring out at a terrifying speed!

    The sttering azure beam, in the twinkling of an eye, significantly surpassed the speed of Lin Chen''s sword swing!

    <i>STAB! </i>An azure light abruptly prated Lin Chen''s forehead!

    <i>HUM! </i> That azure light directly shot through to the sky above!

    A testament to its speed, the clouds were pierced, leaving a gaping hole aloft!

    ¡°Sun Moon Divine Light, Rainbow Through The Sun!¡± Second Uncle Lin¡¯s throat nearly split, shouting these eight words that he¡¯d yearned for all his life with utmost astonishment!

    Sun Moon Divine Light was the supreme Star grade sword technique of Sword Heaven!

    It did not contain a Sovereign Sword technique, only the twin killing techniques of the Sun and Moon, and the <i>Sun</i> was the Star grade Flying Sword technique Rainbow Through the Sun!

    A sword that prated the sun! Such was its might!

    Unlike Ten-Step Scale, Rainbow Through the Sun stressed the utmost speed, the utmost ferocity. It was the fastest light, and even more, it had been the foremost murderous sword atop the Sea of Swords since ancient times!

    Second Uncle Lin¡¯s mind went nk! He saw it so clearly!

    ¡°This is a Flying Sword technique only the Sword Lord of Sword Heaven is qualified to cultivate!!¡± Second Uncle Lin quivered as he looked towards Yun Xiao.

    This white-robed young man, by now, had caught his azure Flying Sword, retreating three steps!

    ¡°Uh...¡± Then, Second Uncle Lin, following closely, realized another heart-wrenching matter! He swiftly turned to Lin Chen!

    Lin Chen, stood before Yun Xiao! He was frozen in ce, sword pointed at Yun Xiao, but himself unmoving! His eyes were wide open! And on his forehead, above those eyes, appeared a bloody hole... A bloody hole, from the brow, piercing through to the back of his head!

    In the next moment, a mix of red and white things slowly trickled from Lin Chen¡¯s brow and the back of his head. His eyes seemed to still be looking at Yun Xiao! However, soon, he stiffly fell backward with a ssh into the lotus pond. For a time, theke began to redden.

    Wind Listening Pavilion, at this moment, plummeted into a sheer silence!

    All eyes widened, gazing at the ripplingke surface, tongues trembling, yet words unspoken.

    After a long, long time, the crowd then shakily shifted their gazes towards that white-robed young man, eyes filled with blood vessels, whether out of awe or resentment, it was unknown.

    The young man spread his hands, saying, ¡°No choice, my hand was forced!¡±

 Chapter 102 - Whos the Real Fool?

    <h4>Chapter 102 - Who''s the Real Fool?</h4>

    Forced...? Yun Xiao was <i>forced </i>to unleash a Star grade sword technique, Sun and Moon Divine Light¡ªRainbow Through The Sun?

    Second Uncle Lin, Murong Li, Old Ning, Ning Que, and others stood like wooden stakes upon the ground.

    "Lin Chen... is dead..." Ning Yan''s tremulous, horrified exmation echoed, her pupils dting, her voice hoarse.

    "Brother!" Lin Lin unleashed a heart-wrenching scream, copsing in a heap on the ground, still unable to believe her own eyes.

    "Quick, retrieve him!" Second Uncle Lin shouted urgently, his expression agonizingly bleak.

    Lin Chen was the future of their Sword Heaven Lin Family. However, he was.dead. A sword through the head¡ªwhat else would be the result? Even if he was retrieved from the pond, it didn''t matter!

    Then, a heart-rending roar sailed through from the distance.

    "Lil Chen!" A white-haired figure crashed into the lotus pond, sshing water soaring, then with a buzzing noise, this white-haired person hoisted a pale-faced, dead-eyed corpse from the water!

    Until the end, Lin Chen was in disbelief. He died to the Sun Moon Divine Light!!

    "AHHH!!" The white-haired figure, holding Lin Chen, thudded to his knees upon the ground! His eyes were streaked with blood vessels, bloody tears surging out, teeth and lips quivering, his face painting a portrait of pain and despair.

    This white-haired figure was none other than Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng!

    It was evident; his heart was being torn apart!

    Subsequently, another figure arrived¡ªan elegantly-dressed beautifuldy. She was Madame Xiao. Seeing her only son transformed into a corpse, she seemed struck by thunder, a stream of ck blood spilling from her mouth, her eyes already crimson red!

    "Beast! I will grind your bones to dust!!" Madame Xiao fixated her gaze fiercely on Yun Xiao, pouncing toward him like a wild animal.

    "Stay calm!" Ning Yan, suppressing her intense pain, climbed to her feet, positioning herself before Madame Xiao, and shouting at the white-haired figure: "Brother Feng, Lin Chen pushed people too far! Everyone saw..."

    "Wretched slut, you can die too!" Xiao Yu, now apparently deranged, heeding no words, brandished her sword, intent on killing Yun Xiao.

    She was merely at the Establishment Origin Core Realm; she couldn''t harm Yun Xiao!

    For a moment, everyone''s eyes turned to Lin Qingfeng, their expressions peculiar to some degree.

    "Lin Qingfeng! The prodigy you mentored and protected has killed your only son with his own hands. Are you satisfied now?" Second Uncle Lin said, eyes filled with sorrow.

    "Enough!" Lin Qingfeng gentlyid down his son, stood up in a daze, and restrained Madame Xiao.

    "Sword Lord" Murong Li spoke with a face twisted in hate. "The ungrateful cur you''ve raised not onlycks gratitude but also spoilt by indulgence, killed our four Sword Princelings! If you do not deal with him, our Sword Heaven will turn into a den of wolves!"

    His words struck a chord, several of the Great Sword Venerables voicing their agreement.

    "Yun Xiao..." The Sword Lord lifted his head, gazing at the calm-faced youth in white before him.

    "Sword Lord!" Yun Xiao dered with a serious mien, "I apologize... but he truly left me no way out, and in the urgency of the moment, I had no other choice."

    "Exactly! Everyone suggested waiting for you, Brother Feng, to thoroughly investigate the murder at the Ancestral Sword Hall, but Lin Chen insisted on acting immediately! Yun Xiao had no choice but to fight back when forced!" Ning Yan, eyes filled with urgency, chimed in, "Brother Feng, Yun Xiao had no reason to go to the Ancestral Sword Hall unnecessarily; someone must be trying to kill him by using others!"

    Just moments ago, the final moments of the struggle between Lin Chen and Yun Xiao had indeed been witnessed by Lin Qingfeng and Xiao Yu from above! It was clear as day!

    It could be called pure coincidence if not for the fact that Yun Xiao had timed it perfectly.

    Taking a deep breath, Yun Xiao spoke solemnly: "I am grateful to the Sword Lord for valuing me. This kindness I cannot repay, and now, with this tragedy, my heart is filled with guilt! In the presence of everyone here, I can only vow to destroy the Forbidden Tower for Sword Heaven, to kill the Forbidden Tower Lord, Ye Guying, and the Ten Great Elders! To let Sword Heaven dominate the Sea of Swords! Only then can I find some peace in my heart..."

    "..." Lin Qingfeng''s lips didn''t move. Speechless! He nkly stared at the youth in white, at a loss for words. Vow to annihte the Forbidden Tower? In this moment, his face was a spectacle of emotions.

    Beside him, Xiao Yu regained some sanity, recalling the matter of the littleb rat, her face bing an even more spectacr disy of intertwined grief and fury.

    "You''re still not going to execute this cmity on the spot? Your son will have died for nothing!" Second Uncle Lin uttered with a trembling voice.

    "Silence!" Lin Qingfeng shot him a furious nce. "Attacking without seeking the truth, bullying based on one¡¯s power, yet being killed when their skills weren¡¯t up to par! Isn¡¯t that shameful enough?"

    Upon hearing this, people like Murong Li and Second Uncle Lin were left stunned.

    All they could do was stare at the Sword Lord and shake their heads in sorrow.

    "While what you said is true, it''s your son who is dead! In this life, Lin Chen, having a father like you, truly has rotten luck for eight lifetimes!" Second Uncle Lin sighed deeply.

    Hearing those words, Lin Qingfeng felt as though his heart was being pierced by a thousand swords! Who couldprehend his pain? But, he endured! Only two days remained. If he didn¡¯t endure now, all previous efforts would be wasted!

    Lin Qingfeng swallowed his fury, gritting his teeth. "There''s no exception, even for my son. Justice must prevail in all matters!"

    At the utterance of these words, the top brass of Sword Heaven cast their eyes toward the corpse of Lin Chen, their gazes awash with sorrow and pity. All of which, Yun Xiao watched keenly.

    What, after all, was his purpose in staging this melodramatic scene? He wished to observe the Sword Lord, whose heart was being invisibly shredded to pieces yet, within this tragedy, still maintained a facade, shielding Yun Xiao.

    "What a joke! What an idiot!" Yun Xiao silently sneered to himself. "Sword Lord, this is the path of the Immortal. If you wish to manipte others, be prepared to be manipted to death first!"

    An admirer of talent, a personification of conquest? If he was so fond of this theatrical performance, Yun Xiao would allow him to immerse fully in the act, even if his tears flowed through every scene.

    "Let''s disperse!" Figures like Second Uncle Lin and Murong Li, their spirits decimated, shook their heads and sighed, departing with a dismissive flick of their sleeves.

    Lin Qingfeng, abandoned by his allies, experienced a further fracturing of his internalndscape. Regrettably, he dared not voice his turmoil. Just two more days, the matter was too critical, he couldn¡¯t afford to take even the slightest risk. Even if he had to swallow his own shattered teeth, he would!

    Madame Xiao, not well-versed in the art of pretense, could only retreat first, sobbing while clutching her son.

    In a blink, only the Ning Family members remained within the Wind Listening Pavilion.

    "Ning Que! Investigate the deaths of Ning Bei and the other two! You must ferret out the individual sowing discord within Sword Heaven and subject them to a thousand cuts!" Lin Qingfeng spat out viciously. He harbored a hatred deeper than anyone for this instigator. Everything would havee to a splendid conclusion in just two more days if it wasn¡¯t for the loss of his son!

    "Sword Lord, if the culprit is of high status..." Ning Que began, a headache forming.

    "Handle them just the same!" The Sword Lord responded coldly. He knew that Ning Que suspected figures like Second Uncle Lin and Murong Li, intending to use Lin Chen¡¯s hand to kill Yun Xiao. However, those three Sword Princelings, they were their younger generation...

    "Yes!" Ning Que and Ancestor Ning could only nod.

    As they departed, Ning Que cast Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng a sidelong nce, remarking, "Yun Xiao even used Rainbow Through The Sun. You must have been secretly cultivating him for years, right? Truly, you didn¡¯t need to exploit Lil Yan''s hand to unveil this secret prodigy to us all!¡±

    The Sword Lord said nothing, simply waving his hand, bidding Ning Que leave.

    Once Ning Que had departed, the Sword Lord turned his prating gaze to Yun Xiao, inquiring, "Rainbow Through The Sun?"

    "Mmhm!" Yun Xiao nodded. "Pondered it all night yesterday, and atst, I had some insights."

    "One night? Atst?" The Sword Lord''s expression quirked, for this was a top-tier sword technique that had once taken him five years to barelyprehend!

    "But curiously..." Yun Xiao continued, "It seems like the sword technique is somewhat... iplete? So, I took the liberty to put in quite a bit of effort to patch it up, modify it a bit. What do you think, Sword Lord?" With that, Yun Xiao, cradling that azure Sword Soul, executed Rainbow Through The Sun several times.

    Whether by chance or design, every sword strike mirrored the one that had pierced Lin Chen''s skull¡ªas though he was killing him over and over again.

    "That''s expected. I provided you with a preliminary version. However, your innate talent is quite bright, deciphering theplete version on your own," the Sword Lord, hands sped behind his back,mented lightly. Yet those hands, hidden behind him, trembled uncontrobly.

    Crafting theplete Star grade sword technique based on a fragment in a single night, understanding it through and through, each strike lethal... what kind of monster was this?

    The Sword Lord''s worldview shattered.

    He could only mask the tumultuous waves within with a calm demeanor.

    "I had nned to instruct you in sword practice today. It seems there''s no need now," the Sword Lord pursed his lips.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded. "You must still be upied with dealing with your son¡¯s aftermath, right? I''ll practice on my own."

    "..." The Sword Lord had no reply. He spared Ning Yan a nce, his teeth gritted, and then he walked away.

    Only Ning Yan and Yun Xiao remained.

    Ning Yan gazed at him, lost.

    ¡°What is it? Do I have a pimple?¡± Yun Xiao asked with a gentle smile.

    ¡°No, no...¡± Ning Yan bowed her head.

    ¡°Heal your wounds,¡± Yun Xiao instructed.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Her head drooped even lower, her fingers trembling ever so slightly.

    ¡°You guessed, didn¡¯t you?¡± His gaze on her was cold and sharp.

    Ning Yan''s delicate body shivered, she feigned a clumsy smile. ¡°I don¡¯t know a damn thing! I¡¯ll apologize to my daughter in a few days. Please, don¡¯t kill me, okay?¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡± Yun Xiao turned to leave. But, ncing back, he saw the east tower had already copsed. The west tower would have to do!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In Sword Heaven, at the cemetery, there stood a tombstone, a lump of yellow earth with the name Lin Chen carved upon it, signaling an abrupt end.

    Two people stood in front of the grave¡ªLin Qingfeng and Xiao Yu.

    Xiao Yu¡¯s soul seemed to have wept itself away, her body slumped to the side, while the Sword Lord was scarcely faring better.

    In these few days shielding Yun Xiao, it seemed people had forgotten how thoroughly and earnestly he¡¯d nurtured Lin Chen in the past.

    He didn''t love his son? Of course not! It was all an act! His bloodshot eyes, dim gaze, his struggling, guilt-ridden, pained expression, it all spoke volumes.

    ¡°Lil Chen, your father will avenge you, making him die in the most tragic way! His sword bone will be stripped from his very being, his flesh and blood will be boiled and burned, his soul imprisoned, forever unable to reincarnate!¡± The Sword Lord bowed his head, veins bulging on his neck.

    Beside him, Xiao Yu was awash with tears, her cries as agonizing as ants crawling on one¡¯s heart.

    Muchter, the Sword Lord finally assisted his wife to stand.

    ¡°My dear, the two Sword Rings, the Demon Cores...¡± Xiao Yu queried. Once a person died, if the sword ring wasn''t taken, the Demon Core would dissipate soon after.

    ¡°Let them be! They are our gifts to him, something to cling to on the road to the Yellow Springs,¡± the Sword Lord spoke deeply.

    ¡°Mhm...¡± Xiao Yu nodded. Recalling the child¡¯s excitement upon receiving two precious five-thousand-year-old Demon Cores, her tears fell again like a dam bursting open.

    After the couple left, the cemetery fell into a solemn silence. Even amidst the dark, surging tides of the Sea of Swords, no one came to pay their respects.

    A little whileter... a young man dressed in white arrived!

 Chapter 103 - Soaring Through the Sky, Nine Dragons Shake an Era!

    <h4>Chapter 103 - Soaring Through the Sky, Nine Dragons Shake an Era!</h4>

    It was Yun Xiao himself! He bowed his head, eyes lingering over a gravestone and the yellow soil around it.

    "Can''t believe it. A life extinguished, and they bury two precious five-thousand-year-old Demon Cores just like that? What a waste!" Yun Xiao shook his head, his thoughts awash with wry amusement.

    These wealthy folks really did treat money like dirt!

    Yun Xiao approached the mound of earth, his Sword Soul transforming into a three-foot azure de. With a precise thrust, the Sword Soul prated the soil, slipped through the narrow crevices of the coffin, and impaled into Lin Chen¡¯s skeleton.

    One red and one blue Sword Ring were suddenly devoured by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, spiraling around it.

    <i>HUM! </i>Two Demon Cores rose, submerging themselves within the azure Sword Soul.

    Including Yun Xiao¡¯s original two Sword Rings, there were now four in total!

    A sword entwined with four Sword Rings!

    If anyone else were to witness this scene, screams of astonishment would undoubtedly erupt.

    "A Sword Soul capable of embedding four Sword Rings should be between the seventh and eighth level! And the Star grade is merely the fifth level!"

    The crux of the matter was that Yun Xiao still couldn¡¯t determine if four Sword Rings were indeed the current limit!

    "The strength of the Sword Ringsrgely depends on the quality of the Demon Cores. If the Demon Cores are subpar, having them in abundance is meaningless! These five-thousand-year-old Demon Cores, with their Thousand Waters Lure and Ghostly Inferno demon magics are immeasurably more potent than the thousand-year-old Serpent Emperor Demon Core and the one seized from Ye Tiance¡¯s Sword Soul!"

    Lin Chen had utilized the Thousand Waters Lure to neutralize the sharpness of Yun Xiao¡¯s hundredyer Sword Aura, avoiding a direct sh with Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul!

    Now, both the Thousand Waters Lure and Ghostly Inferno demon magics were Yun Xiao¡¯s tomand.

    "Compared to these two great demon magics, my original two Sword Rings are practically useless." Yun Xiao removed those two Sword Rings, his thoughts tracing a pragmatic path. "I¡¯ve already achieved a hundredyer Sword Aura. Revealing four more Sword Rings would attract countless greedy individuals like Lin Qingfeng. Best to keep a trick up my sleeve for a counter kill!"

    So, there it was, Yun Xiao, nked by the mournful ambiance of freshly turned earth and an unyielding gravestone. His Sword Soul bore only two Sword Rings, each iming a staggering antiquity of five thousand years.

    With a tilt ofpassion shaded by cunning, he transferred the two discarded Demon Cores from the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into the corpse of Lin Chen. ¡°Brother...¡± he whispered, the edge of mischief dancing in his eyes. ¡°May your road to the Yellow Springs be a touch less lonely with thepany of the thousand-year-old Serpent Emperor and Ye Tiance.¡±

    Yun Xiao withdrew his Sword Soul, tending to the earth that concealed the dead, and stood vigil in a momentary homage, pouring three cups of wine unto the grave of one Lin Chen.

    Once the ritual wasplete, he pivoted, his silhouette melding with the tranquil background. ¡°When the Sword Lord finally decides to confront me, he''ll be in for a little surprise,¡± Yun Xiao mused.

    Blue Star chuckled, a ripple in the otherwise solemn atmosphere. ¡°A mere nce at your Sword Soul, and he¡¯ll realize what you did to his son even after death.¡±

    Frowning, Yun Xiao dered, ¡°I''ve no love for those who deceive me, especially those who drape themselves in false virtue whilst harboring malice... So, Lin Qingfeng, your entire lineage deserved its end.¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the heart of the Sea of Swords, within the Forbidden Tower!

    At its zenith, where themonce dared not tread,y a secluded chamber, ensconced in shadows and forbidden mysteries.

    Behind the tightly sealed doors of the chamber, a world of darkness unfolded, where the so-called dark mist was in fact, spiritual energy, dense and potent.

    The spacious room was scant of all but a man, garbed in ck, seated upon the floor, his eyes sealed in meditative concentration. His seated form was centered within a ck magic formation.

    This formation, intertwined with the very essence of the Forbidden Tower, now birthed ny-nine dark tendrils. They sought him, embedding into his head, chest, and limbs, intertwining with his meridians. The boundless spiritual energy flooded into him, elerating his cultivation at a breakneck pace.

    In ten days within the heart of the tower, the Tower Heart legacy was imparted, and the man surged to the heavens!

    In the blink of a star¡¯s twinkle, the man went from the Establishment Divine Sea Realm to congealing an Origin Core. And a dayter, he gathered five more Divine Seas and added anotheryer to his Origin Core. A little over a weekter, his Origin Core had grown incredibly vast, teetering on the brink of a new realm!

    This was the Tower Heart inheritance, the stuff of dreams for every Sword Cultivator!

    In a mere eight days, he''d aplished what took others a lifetime!

    He''d reached a pinnacle, a height in the Sea of Swords, that nearly everyone would not attain in their entire lives!

    And what was more terrifying, within the Dantian of the man in ck, there wasn''t only one fiveyer Origin Core but nine!

    Others would have but one, yet he, with nine Origin Cores spiraling,manded a might unparalleled. Although each Origin Core was somewhat smaller than the same-realm Origin Core, theirbined number more than made up for this deficit!

    This was the Dao Seed Talent!

    Only the Nine Dragons Dantian could cultivate such an effect!

    ¡°Such a miracle of a Dao Seed Talent I possess, yet you all merely define it as grade? Hehe...¡± the man in ck chuckled lightly. Then, his expression molded into one of solemnity.

    ¡°The final sprint begins now!¡±

    <i>HUM HUM HUM! </i>The entire Forbidden Tower, voraciously absorbing a multitude of spiritual energy, constantly funneled it through that magic formation and dark tendrils, pouring it into his Dantian.

    Mountains of Spirit Stonesy beside him, totaling a sum of at least 5,000,000. Once the spiritual energy within these stones got absorbed, they would gradually turn into mere stones.

    His Dantian¡¯s might grew increasingly potent!

    Finally, in the next instant, those nine Origin Cores suddenly transformed into nine true dragons of magic power, roaming and roaring within his Dantian. That terrifying burst of magic power exploded forth, causing the entire Forbidden Tower to tremble vehemently, shocking at least hundreds of people.

    ¡°Ye Guying has entered the Sovereign Dragon Realm!¡±

    "But his aura, it''s considerably stronger than the typical Sovereign Dragon Realm, isn¡¯t it? Almostparable to a Sword Lord, or a Tower Lord perhaps!"

    "To ascend to the pinnacle of the Sea of Swords at only twenty? Terrifying..."

    Every soul within the Forbidden Tower stared towards its apex, a tempest of awe and fear swelling in their chests.

    "Only two days left! He¡¯s still pushing forward. Once he steps into the Mid Sovereign Dragon Realm, given the power of his Nine Dragons Dantian, he might genuinely join the ranks of the superpowers of the Sea of Swords, easily trampling the top prodigy of Sword Heaven, Lin Chen, beneath his feet!"

    "He shouldn¡¯t have any issues!"

    In the secret chamber, Ye Guying seemed enshrouded by nine dark dragons, their ferocity, chill, and aura of silent killing casting him as an emperor of Sword Cultivators in the dark, embodying ultimate ruthlessness.

    "If things go this way, I should be at the Mid Sovereign Dragon Realm when I leave the tower! At that point, even sweeping through those at the Late Sovereign Dragon Realm won¡¯t be an issue... With such power, I qualify to represent the Sword Realm and fight gloriously in the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm!"

    A slight smirk yed on Ye Guying¡¯s lips.

    "The durds of Azure Spirit probably think I''ll only barely surpass the prime of Zhao Jianxing with my ten-day inheritance from the Tower Heart. Those country-bumpkin cultivators truly are frogs at the bottom of a well. How could I bepared to a cripple like Zhao Jianxing?"

    Nine Dragons Dantian!

    Only he knew how terrifying this Dao Seed Talent was.

    "Father, Big Brother, two days from now, I will lead thirty thousand Sword Cultivators, descend upon Azure Spirit, and with a sword that pierces heaven and earth, exterminate that bug Yun Xiao!"

    This was practically the return of a war god!

    "And you, Zhao Xuanran, a low-born boy once pitied and scorned by your condescending gaze. In just ten days, I''ve transformed and soared like a dragon. I''ll ascend and be the emperor among swords in the Sea of Swords! When I stand before you, amidst the kneeling masses, it¡¯s about time your haughty head bows down, no?"

    The hardship of a life dedicated to cultivation, what was it for?

    Was it not for that very moment of sheer arrogance?

    "Although arrogance is deemed disgraceful, there''s no one more qualified to be arrogant than me!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Sea of Swords embraced the night. Another evening unfolded.

    Yun Xiao, lone and pensive, strolled through the streets of the Sea of Swords.

    By day, his audacious deed¡ªying Lin Chen unscathed¡ªhad sent shockwaves through the Sea of Swords. This feat mirrored the enigmatic Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Tower, Chen Xi, who annihted the Tower Lord''s son, yet emerged unharmed. They were deeds of a simr ilk.

    The Azure Kite Sea, the Spirit Treasure Walk, the ying of Lin Chen¡ªthree events that catapulted Yun Xiao to unparalleled prominence in the Sea of Swords, known by all and sundry. And all this, merely on his third day in this enigmatic ce.

    In three days, he had upended the world''s perceptions.

    "Why isn''t anyone trying to kill me now?" Yun Xiao mumbled, his expression shrouded in gloom as he wandered.

    On yesterday¡¯s journey to the Azure Kite Sea, every ten steps invited a sword, each thrust lethal. Today, however, devoid of Ning Yan''s protection and more visible to the passersby, all he encountered were tranquil gazes, and some even greeted him.

    "Young Sword Lord, good evening!"

    "Out for a stroll, are we?"

    "Young Sword Lord, my daughter''s skilled hands await. Care for a hair wash?"

    "..." Yun Xiao really was at a loss for words at this reversal in attitude.

    Suddenly, everyone had grown wise.

    "What''s wrong with you? Irritated because no one''s trying to assassinate you?" Blue Star scorned.

    "If they don''t try to kill me, how can I retaliate and rob their money? Brother, I''m strapped for cash!" Yun Xiao grumbled.

    Though he''d recently acquired over 5,000,000 Spirit Stones, after spending 500,000 on a gift and left with a seemingly hefty sum of 4,500,000, the little ck soul beast''s ever-expanding belly and increasing efficiency visibly diminished his coffers. The Heavenly Dao Sariras had indeed multiplied, but Yun Xiao¡¯s Dantian was like a bottomless pit¡ªevery enhancement in the Primordial Void Technique meant it absorbed even more.

    In a word, he was broke!

    Then, the Spirit Treasure Walk appeared before him.

    "Brother,e, I''ve got good news!" Madam Qian, puffing on her pipe, beckoned Yun Xiao from her shop.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao entered.

    "Heard you took down Lin Chen?" Madam Qian quizzed, her eyebrow arched.

    "My hand was forced!" Yun Xiao sighed, feigning distress.

    "The way of the sword, where might makes right, demands courage over timidity! If you win, if you live, you be the principle," Madam Qian cackled with a certain sly wisdom in her eyes.

    Yun Xiao inquired, extending a palm, "And your promising news would be?"

    Ah, a reward of sorts emerged from within the matron¡¯s bosom, a gleaming golden card. "With Lin Chen dead, I suspect your path leads to the Heavenly Realm, to partake in the grandeur of the War of Immortals. Should you venture there, surely you''ll cross paths with the backbone of my Spirit Treasure Walk!"

    "Backbone?" Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze dipped to the golden card.

    "Yes, the Spirit Treasure Pce, the wellspring from which all our earthly Spirit Treasure Walk draws," she handed the card over with a mysterious giggle. "With this, should you grace the Spirit Treasure Pce, substantial privileges await! How¡¯s that for goodwill, eh?"

    "Privileges?" Something stirred within Yun Xiao, and he hastily expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Sister!"

    Oh, the ttery caressed Madam Qian''s soul, and she sighed with exaggerated sentiment, "What a handsome one you are! With your looks in the Heavenly Realm, you could be the crown jewel of a floral house, and I wager the wealthy matrons would queue for a decade just for a chance to bask in your favor! Say, weren¡¯t you struggling? A tad less restraint, and I guarantee you wealth to rival nations, no, an entire realm!"

    <i>Am I being pimped right now...?</i> Yun Xiao''s jaw dropped, speechless.

    Was that even possible?

    Yun Xiao quietly made a mental note...

    "Spirit Treasure Pce? Not too shabby. I do favor wealthy factions! Preferably those that speak in coin, not emotions. Discussing feelings costs money!" Yun Xiao silently mused. After all, he''d learned his lesson from Zhao Xuanran!

    "This golden card?" Yun Xiao muttered. Flipping it over, his expression was almostically appalled. <i>WHAT!? </i>He nearly spat blood right then and there.

    "Heavenly magic treasure voucher, three Spirit Stones?" Yun Xiao gawked at Madam Qian.

    "Yes, that¡¯s right!"

    "This is your grand discount?" Yun Xiao questioned in disbelief.

    "Absolutely!"

    "And how much does a Heavenly magic treasure usually cost?"

    "A minimum of a hundred million Spirit Stones, I¡¯d wager!"

    "..." Yun Xiao was once again struck speechless. What a swindler!

    Gritting his teeth, Yun Xiao glowered at Madam Qian, "Couldn¡¯t you, while courting prodigies, simply gift money instead? I''m in need!"

    "Pah!" Madam Qian promptly shook her head, "You''re overthinking. Talking money hurts feelings, explicit pricing, fair to all ages!"

    Instantly, Yun Xiao¡¯s fondness for wealthy factions soured!

    "If you¡¯re reluctant, return the voucher to me," Madam Qian offered with a cheeky grin.

    "In your dreams!"

    Three Spirit Stones was still money!

    Pocketing the voucher, Yun Xiao pivoted to leave.

    But at that moment, a servant approached, conveying, "Young Sword Lord, the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Tower awaits you at the Divine Dawn Pavilion!"

 Chapter 104 - Little Primordial Immortal Ancestor

    <h4>Chapter 104 - Little Primordial Immortal Ancestor</h4>

    "Does she wish to see me?" Yun Xiao blinked, momentarily taken aback.

    The very individual possessing the super high grade Seed of Creation?

    "Go! Let me get a closer look at her, probe her secrets." A faint gleam sparked in Blue Star''s eyes.

    "Very well, I''ll meet her."

    With a solitary ascent, Yun Xiao found himself at the very top of the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    With but a single nce upon his arrival, he discerned the distinctive air enveloping the top floor¡ªdecadently adorned yet exuding an air of refinement, permeated with an ancient charm, brimming with immortal aura, where veils of white mist intertwined, as if one had stepped into a celestial pce amongst the clouds.

    Before himy the Divine Dawn Pavilion! The massive doors of the Divine Dawn Paviliony agape, within which wafted a subtle, refined sandalwood fragrance. Yun Xiao, opting against the formality of knocking, stepped within.

    Before him, an expansive balcony, protruding into the white mist of the Azure Kite Sea, presented itself. Atop it stood a silhouette, cloaked in dazzling white, resembling a celestial maiden adrift amidst the clouds, her back to Yun Xiao.

    Her silhouette was a dreamlike vision.

    Yun Xiao, robed in unblemished white, and she, draped in a snow-white pearl skirt, exuded an ethereal, solitary coldness, seemingly melding with the surrounding mist... at the very least, in temperament, they seemed a fitting pair.

    "Have you arrived?" At that moment, the maiden in the white skirt, sensing his movements, turned to face him.

    "I have." Yun Xiao had anticipated she¡¯d still be veiling herself with that white tiger mask. However, what turned to face him was a countenance of transcendent, celestial beauty!

    The maiden before him boasted a slender, delicately captivating form, with locks cascading like a waterfall. Her features were exquisitely delicate, her face reminiscent of blooming peach blossoms, pearls and jade seemed to form her visage, her skin as tenderly pale as snow, embodying a chilly jade-like beauty.

    Beneath the mist, her slender waist swayed gently, akin to willows caressing one¡¯s face. Her voice just now, was a soft, delicate melody, and now, as her enchanting eyes flicked towards him, those eyes were like an immortal pce above the clouds, mysterious and pure, irresistibly striking a chord within the observer!

    In a single word¡ªexquisite!

    In five¡ªa wless and fair beauty!

    Everything about her was just right, not too much nor too little, fulfilling all of Yun Xiao''s mortal imaginings of an Immortal.

    Fortunately, having recently admired his own reflection quite a bit, Yun Xiao managed to maintain a calm demeanor, even when confronted with such unexpected beauty. But Blue Star and Red Moon, his hiddenpanions, were beside themselves with excitement!

    ¡°That little white tiger, oh, how adorable!¡± Blue Star whispered, barely containing a squee.

    ¡°Think she''s got some demon milk?¡± Red Moon pondered aloud, peering around.

    ¡°You, the hell is wrong with you! It¡¯s still a cub!¡± Blue Star retorted, flustered.

    ¡°Bluey, we don''t have a pair, right?¡± Red Moon asked, puzzled.

    ¡°I¡¯ve secretly grown one!¡± Blue Star confided with a cheeky grin.

    Yun Xiao nearly passed out! Would it kill those two not to ruin the mood with their banter at least once?

    Despite the excited chatter inside, Yun Xiao¡¯s expression remained solemn and serene from start to finish.

    He locked eyes with the girl in the white dress, a calm exchange of silent mutual appraisal. She, too, took a few moments to observe him up close, gently caressing the little white tiger in her arms, and softly stated, ¡°I heard you slew Lin Chen.¡±

    Her voice, gentle and lilting, was like the melodious song of a warbling oriole.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Yun Xiao replied simply.

    ¡°This is for you.¡± The girl produced a piece of white jade from her embrace. The jade glided in a straight line towards Yun Xiao, disying her terrifyingly precise control over her magic power.

    ¡°What is this?¡± Yun Xiao caught the jade, inspecting the words War of Immortals engraved on its surface.

    ¡°A War Jade. With it, you can represent the Sword Realm in the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm,¡± she exined gently, leaning lightly against the railing, her gaze lost in the misty clouds over the Sea of Swords. A gentle breeze caressed her hair, painting a picture as if a banished Immortal had descended to the mortal realm.

    "Sword Realm?" Turning the War Jade over, Yun Xiao did indeed find the words Sword Realm inscribed upon it!

    ¡°In the Immortal Empire of the Heavenly Realm, the domain spanning the Sea of Swords, the Grand Wastnd, and the Thousand Mortal Nations are collectively known as the Sword Realm, renowned for producing Sword Cultivators,¡± the girl whispered softly.

    ¡°So, there are no Sword Cultivators elsewhere?¡± Yun Xiao inquired.

    ¡°There are, but not many.¡±

    ¡°Are you a Sword Cultivator?¡± he asked again.

    ¡°I am not,¡± she replied.

    ¡°Alright, I understand!¡± Yun Xiao pursed his lips, ¡°But why should I go to war?¡±

    "This is your only chance to ascend to the Heavenly Realm quickly. And in the Heavenly Realm, you can have anything you want," the girl in white exined.

    Indeed, Seeds of Creation like her were plenty in the Heavenly Realm!

    To resurrect the Creator Immortal, to soar on the Immortal Path, Yun Xun required a stepping stone!

    And the Heavenly Realm was the optimal stepping stone!

    "Will you go?" the girl in white asked.

    "I will," Yun Xiao was sinct, "When do we depart?"

    "In three days," she replied.

    Ye Guying would leave his closed-door cultivation two dayster. The timing posed no issues.

    "How many will go?" Yun Xiao pressed further.

    "Me, and those who survive," she stated evenly, her gaze unwavering.

    She seemed a person devoid of expression, perpetually cold and profound from beginning to end.

    Survivors? Clearly, she knew of Yun Xiao''s dispute with the Sea of Swords, but from the sound of it, she had no intention of intervening, which also evidenced that she was no ordinary being.

    "May I ask if Miss Chen Xi is an Immortal descending from the Heavenly Realm?" Yun Xiao, curling a slight smile, inquired.

    "A descending Immortal?" Her expression took a peculiar turn.

    "What is your status in the Heavenly Realm?" he pressed.

    "Immortal Empire, aristocratic family, legitimate daughter," she supplied three consecutive terms.

    "Whye to the Sea of Swords?" he looked into her eyes.

    She looked back. "You ask a lot of questions."

    "Before going to war, I should get to know my teammates a bit." Yun Xiao smiled.

    "If I said I''m avoiding a marriage proposal, would you believe me?" she asked.

    "It''s clich¨¦, but yes, I believe you!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "But I was lying to you!" Suddenly, she chuckled.

    Only then did Yun Xiao notice, she had two small dimples, which, when sheughed, added a yful mischief to her demeanor.

    Yun Xiao also allowed a smile, then bowed slightly, "In that case, thank you, Miss Chen Xi, for providing me an opportunity to make a name for myself on the battlefields of the Heavenly Realm!"

    "You''re wee! The lineage of Sword Cultivators needs a genius to stabilize the Immortal Empire. You hold great promise." Despite her young age, her tone carried themanding assurance of an Emperor orchestrating strategies behind veiled curtains.

    "I''ve nothing more to do here, so I''ll be taking my leave!" Yun Xiao dered.

    "See you in three days," the girl, her gaze lingering on him, whispered, "I hope it will be you whoes, not Ye Guying."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Because you are far more pleasant to look at than he is," she responded, a subtle mischief ying on her words.

    "..." Yun Xiao was at a loss for words.

    After Yun Xiao departed, the doors of the Divine Dawn Pavilion gently shut themselves.

    <i>BANG! </i>The moment the doors sealed, a soft, crimson blush swept across the fair-skinned girl''s visage.

    "The power of the Yang Void... trulyforting," she murmured.

    The small white tiger, stretching its petite, striped frame, nonchntly remarked, "How fortunate! You''re truly on the path to great wealth!"

    She cast it a sidelong nce beforenguidly reclining upon the vast bed, her gaze vacant and distant.

    Undeterred, the small white tiger pranced onto her chest, speaking with zealous animation. "Three times in total! The first time, you only need to grant him a tenth of your Yin Void magic power. The second time, give him a third. By nting seeds in such a manner, with your Yin Void power acting as a catalyst, the harmonization of Yin and Yang will cause his magic power to explosively inte, his realm soaring! By the third time, you shall reap the harvest!"

    "And how would I harvest?" she quietly asked, a ripple of unease crossing her features.

    "Of course," the little tiger announced, a flicker of cunning in its eyes, "by reiming all the magic power you dispatched to him, and then some. Let him surrender all his Yang Void power to you! So, merely through these three cycles of cultivation, you shall inevitably break through your shackles, making history in the Heavenly Realm!"

    "Oh!" With a muffled sound, the girl grabbed a pillow, smothering her own face with it.

    "Lil Xi, what is this? Shyness?" The white tiger shook its head, a bemused look in its eyes. "No need for it. This is simply a normal act of procreation! If you do not wish to conceive, you could always neuter him first! Yes, neutering is good! No fuss!"

    "Enough!" With a swift motion, she sent it flying with a smack.

    Landing with a tumbling roll, the small white tiger couldn''t contain its chuckles. "Tsk, tsk, wealth is on the horizon!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Creator!"

    While Yun Xiao was still descending the staircase, Blue Star couldn''t contain his enthusiasm. "What luck! You''re going to strike it rich!"

    "How so?" Yun Xiao inquired, his tone light and unassuming.

    "The method she cultivates is a derivative of the Primordial Void Technique, which has forged her Yin Void magic power. If you seize this opportunity and use the Seed of Creation as a cauldron, your Yang Void magic power can skyrocket, saving you a lot of initial effort! For you, this woman is a tiny Primordial Immortal Ancestor!" Blue Star chuckled nefariously.

    "Primordial Immortal Ancestor?" Yun Xiao was taken aback, having not anticipated the rapid fulfillment of their previous discussion.

    "Exactly!"

    Yun Xiao pondered for a moment, then spoke. "Let''s not be hasty! She''s probably stronger than me."

    "No shit! If she were to unseal her cultivation, she''d be tens of thousands of miles ahead of you. So, at this stage, you absolutely cannot force anything upon her!" Blue Star dered, his face smeared with disdain.

    "Force?" Yun Xiao''s vision darkened for a moment, "Exactly how does one cultivate using this so-called cauldron of yours?"

    "What do you think?" Blue Star raised an eyebrow, "Like you and your Senior Sister Zhao."

    Yun Xiao''s vision faltered again. "That.. doesn¡¯t seem appropriate, does it?"

    "Whether it¡¯s appropriate isn¡¯t for you to decide," Blue Star cackled wickedly.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Do you know why she''s taken such an interest in you?" Blue Star said with a sly grin.

    "Because of my handsome features?" Yun Xiao replied.

    "As if! It''s because that little white tiger surely thinks the Holy Maiden''s cultivation method is more profound than yours, considering you as her furnace!" Blue Star scoffed with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

    "Is she nning something against me?" Yun Xiao stood there, dumbstruck.

    "A hundred percent!" Blue Star asserted with certainty.

    "And how will she proceed?" Yun Xiao inquired, eyes shadowed with intrigue.

    "In three parts!" Blue Star dered.

    "Three?"

    "Exactly! Three parts, a cycle. First, she''ll infuse you with a tenth of her power! Allowing you to reap the benefits of a rapid rise in realm after the fusion of Yin and Yang Voids, umting a mass of magic power. Second, she¡¯ll infuse a third of her Yin Void power into you, causing a surge in your strength!" Blue Star¡¯s gaze was distant yet deep.

    "So many benefits? What about the third time?" Yun Xiao questioned, genuinely curious.

    "On the third time, you''ll turn the tables, seizing all her magic power, and your strength will skyrocket! All her meticulous ns will go down the drain! It¡¯ll be like lifting a rock only to drop it on her own feet! Hehehe!" Blue Star stood, hands on hips, triumphant.

    "Hysterical! Our Creator has new delicacies to savor!" Red Moon also cackled with unrestrained amusement.

    Yun Xiao was rendered speechless!

    Wasn¡¯t this just another Sword Lord?

    "Enough, both of you!" Yun Xiao, perpetually with an austere demeanor, fixed his gaze on Blue Star and asked earnestly, "After the third time, will she die?"

    "Nope, she''ll just be drained of her magic power! At fifteen, with such power, a few more years of cultivation and she¡¯ll be back. By then, you''ll be stronger and can force-harvest another round!" Blue Star was beside himself with excitement, feeling that a great deal of effort could be saved, and all the hard work in refining the Heavenly Dao Sariras for Yun Xiao was worthwhile.

    "So, you¡¯re in luck! Bumping into such a top-notch, little Primordial Immortal Ancestor is pure fortune!"

    "Forget it," Yun Xiao suddenly uttered, his voice barely above a whisper.

    "Why?" Blue Star and Red Moon were both bewildered.

    "She is the legitimate daughter of a noble family from the Heavenly Realm, not that strong, right? What can one-tenth of the Yin Void power do?" Yun Xiao mused, a serene air about him.

    "Don¡¯t listen to her nonsense, she is the Divine Dawn Empress!" Blue Star rolled its eyes dramatically, "Even a tenth of her Yin Void power could utterly destroy you!"

 Chapter 105 - Powerful Dragon Suppressing the Local Snake!

    <h4>Chapter 105 - Powerful Dragon Suppressing the Local Snake!</h4>

    ¡°The Empress of the Heavenly Realm?¡± Yun Xiao halted abruptly, his eyes wide as he gazed at Blue Star.

    "Indeed! To your current self, she could annihte you, a mere earthly cultivator, with a mere flick of her wrist! Why do you think I''d say whether you be rich isn¡¯t up to you?" Blue Star, clutching his robe, dered fervently, "Brother, this is a top-tier wealthy youngdy, descending personally to deliver fortune! You can get rich just lying there!"

    "She harbors improper intentions towards me, just like that Sword Lord!" Yun Xiao retorted coldly.

    "So what? Your magic power to her is as insignificant as a single hair from nine oxen. You¡¯ve only been cultivating for less than half a month. Even if it''s taken away, you can cultivate it back. That''s much kinder than that Sword Lord trying to snatch your sword bone, right? Trust me! This girl is a major benefactor for you!" Blue Star spoke with utmost seriousness. It had had enough of Yun Xiao¡¯s slow rise and sought a shortcut.

    "Unless she pens you up, shearing you round after round! Only then is she a bad woman!" Red Moon chimed in.

    Three times a cycle!

    Round after round?

    "With the Primordial Void Technique in y, by the third time, she''ll be crying!" Blue Star quipped, curling its lip. "Including that cute little tiger, she¡¯ll be weeping too!"

    "Three times?" Yun Xiao pondered thoughtfully. He could do it ten times a day. If this Dawn Divine Empress attempted it on her way to the Heavenly Realm, wouldn¡¯t she...

    "You''re overthinking. There will definitely be an interim period for you to absorb the Yin Void power and grow!" Blue Star burst into raucousughter. "However, once the first time starts, the second and third are inevitable! The first time she¡¯ll lose out, the second time as well, and just when she thinks the third time''s the charm... she loses everything!!! Hahaha!"

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless.

    After much consideration, he shook his head. "No, I refuse."

    "Why?" Blue Star was stumped.

    "As you two have said, I am the Creator Immortal reincarnated. My path of cultivation depends on myself, and you all are enough! I will not seize the magic power others have worked hard to cultivate! With this sword, I can carve out my own destiny!" Yun Xiao spoke earnestly.

    "Wait, what? When you were swiping Spirit Stones, you sure didn¡¯t have this attitude..." Blue Star gawked.

    "Spirit Stones are one thing, taking someone else''s cultivation is a whole nother!" Yun Xiao retorted through clenched teeth.

    "So, are we taking the Seeds of Creation or not?" Blue Star prodded.

    "Yes! We are! Of course we are!" Yun Xiao dered.

    Blue Star''s eyes lit up with understanding. "Ah, I get it. You just don''t want to engage in reproductive activities with her!"

    "Shut it!" Yun Xiao snapped, squeezing Blue Star''s throat.

    Blue Star, persistent and genuinely curious, managed, "I''m serious. The Divine Dawn Empress is both beautiful and powerful, but why does it seem you prefer a mortal woman? If you continue on this path, this boundless way of Immortal cultivation, there are countless talents, demons, Immortals, and beauties in all directions..."

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao inhaled deeply, standing atop the Spirit Treasure Walk, gazing towards the direction of Azure Spirit, and murmured, "Like you said, I am the Creator Immortal, and below the Heavens, all are mere mortals! With that being the case, what difference is there between mortal and immortal women in my eyes? If I favor someone, I never consider their status or lineage; no matter how high they are, they can never surpass me, the Creator Immortal!"

    "Holy moly, you¡¯ve really got the hang of using your Creator Immortal status," Blue Star eximed, eyes wide.

    "Ah, no need to hide it. To put it nicely, you¡¯re just smitten by the big whitenterns!" Red Moon chimed in with a spark of realization.

    "..." Yun Xiao never ceased to be amazed by the things that came out of this little ck creature''s mouth.

    "Just ignore Yun Xiao. When the timees and othernterns are suppressing him, he won''t be able to resist this miserable fate, might as well lie back and enjoy! Hehe..."

    Blue Star and Red Moon burst into a cacklingughter together.

    "Both of you must be somewhat sick," Yun Xiao remarked dryly.

    Blue Star cast a nce upward, then solemnly advised, "By the way, don''t expose her identity. If she''s chosen to hide it, she must have her reasons. If you blow her cover and she imprisons you in a fit of rage, how will you ever find peace on this long road of cultivation, being suppressed day in and day out?"

    "Get lost! In this life, I¡¯d rather die than submit!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    When Yun Xiao descended from the Divine Dawn Pavilion, a livelymotion seasoned the grand hall of the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    Numerous Sword Cultivators had encircled two individuals, their ears hungrily absorbing a discussion about a certain individual¡ªYe Guying!

    "My grandfather has spoken," a bald young man began, d in an earthy yellow sword robe, his nose arrogantly high and his expression fiercely defined. "The day after tomorrow, when he exits the tower through the Heavenly Gate, reaching the Mid Sovereign Dragon Realm will be no obstacle."

    "He possesses the Nine Dragons Dantian, his magic power significantly overpowering those at a simr cultivation stage. If he attains the Mid Sovereign Dragon Realm, might hisbat strength rival even those two?" The spectators stared, awe smeared across their faces.

    "At only twenty, Ye Guying has managed to stand alongside the Forbidden Tower Lord and Sword Lord. Who can predict the extent of his progress a decade from now?" A slender young man offered with a gentle chuckle. He and the bald youth were the focal point of the present crowd.

    "Could he sweep across the Heavenly Realm in a decade?"

    "Most likely bing a legend amongst Sword Cultivators for generations!"

    The gathered people in the Spirit Treasure Walk exchanged nces, hearts surging with various emotions.

    "A boy from a remote ce like Azure Spirit, astonishingly reaching such a level in a mere ten days within the Sea of Swords¡ªit¡¯s a rarity throughout the ages!"

    Recalling that there was another Sword Cultivator from Azure Spirit in Sword Heaven, they could only shake their heads in amazement. News of Lin Chen''s demise earlier in the day had already once again shaken the entire Sea of Swords!

    "And now, there''s a subtle sense of two prodigies from Azure Spirit contesting for supremacy within the Sea of Swords..."

    "Who do you think will live and who will die?"

    "Yun Xiao excels in Sword Aura and swordsmanship, while Ye Guying has a higher cultivation. Theirbat abilities are well-bnced and wless. At present, it seems like Ye Guying has a bit of an upper hand!"

    "But it''s hard to say. If today''s incident hadn''t happened, we wouldn¡¯t have expected Yun Xiao could kill Lin Chen!"

    "Let¡¯s wait and see."

    The people of the Sea of Swords did not take sides, their predictions fairly impartial.

    Within the crowd, upon hearing the words, the bald youth and the slender young man exchanged a cold, knowing smile. Although silent, their minds were surely set.

    "The moment Ye Guying exits seclusion, he''ll be at the pinnacle level of the Sea of Swords! And yet these people areparing Yun Xiao to him?" the bald youth scoffed.

    "Do they think Yun Xiao also has the Tower Heart''s legacy?" The slender youth sneered with a sinister look.

    Watching this, Yun Xiao asked Madam Qian beside him, "Who are these two?"

    "Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower, Yan Ding and Duanmu Ling! Even stronger than Xiao Xing''er," Madam Qian responded, a yful arch in her eyebrows. "Behind them, they each have elders in the Sovereign Dragon Realm¡ªall venerable ancestors of the Forbidden Tower."

    Yun Xiao knew that below the Tower Lord of the Forbidden Tower, there were ten Great Elders, all significant figures in the Sea of Swords, holding a status even higher than that of Xiao He and Patriarch Fan¡¯s family.

    To be a Great Elder of the Forbidden Tower, the sole condition was to be in the Sovereign Dragon Realm!

    The number of experts in the Sovereign Dragon Realm represented the power and influence of an organization.

    Though the number of Sword Cultivators in the Forbidden Tower couldn¡¯t hold a candle to Sword Heaven, they firmly held a superiority, all due to their strategy of concentrating resources on the prodigious and powerful. The Sovereign Dragon Realm Great Elders were the linchpin to the Forbidden Tower dominating the Sea of Swords!

    It was an organization focused on quality over quantity!

    By raising the bar and only cultivating the gifted and powerful, the Forbidden Tower rose to prominence amidst the Sea of Swords!

    "Those ten Sovereign Dragon Realm Great Elders hold quite the high status. They control the lifeblood of the Sea of Swords. Each has numerous mines, shops, and casinos under their sway, wealthy enough to rival sects," Madam Qian chuckled with a sly grin.

    "Are they your business rivals?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Merely local snakes! My Treasure Spirit Walk descends from the Heavenly Realm like a mighty dragon, effortlessly stifling them into breathlessness!" Madam Qian dered disdainfully.

    Despite her nonchnce, the unintentional speaker sparked intentional contemtion in Yun Xiao, and a n began to crystallize within his mind. A sinister smile fleetingly adorned his lips. Without uttering another word, he made his way towards those two prideful individuals of the Forbidden Tower.

    "Yun Xiao!" Several Sword Cultivators, awe percting within them upon spotting him, promptly rose from their seats, forming a path for him to tread.

    Yan Ding and Duanmu Ling, the two Forbidden Tower prodigies, abruptly stood, their eyes coldly affixing Yun Xiao.

    The atmosphere instantaneously shifted, bing sharply severe.

    "Yan Ding, Duanmu Ling," Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, arriving before them.

    "What do you want?" Yan Ding, face brimming with caution, asked with a deep voice.

    "At times like these, you dare to frivolously wander outside?" Yun Xiao¡¯s voice descended into a chill.

    "What do you mean? We, disciples of the Forbidden Tower, cannot step outside now?" Yan Ding clenched his fists, a fiery surge billowing within.

    The previous day, Yun Xiao had ughtered a horde from the Forbidden Tower here, and they were yet to settle the score!

    "That''s right! While I remain in the Sea of Swords for a single day, every one of you from the Forbidden Tower who steps out shall perish!" Yun Xiao spoke with an unperturbed expression.

    "You!" Yan Ding''s veins bulged visibly. Such audacity! The Forbidden Tower hadn¡¯t settled the score from yesterday because the Forbidden Tower Lord ordered them not to act recklessly.

    Who would have thought Yun Xiao would be so unrestrained, daring to threaten the entirety of the Forbidden Tower''s members, ordering them to stay put, all on his own?

    How could that be possible?

    The Forbidden Tower''s assets were scattered everywhere throughout the Sea of Swords!

    Just as Yan Ding was about to speak, Duanmu Ling at his side hastily restrained him, shooting him a look that conveyed, "Brother Yan, no harsh words!"

    Yan Ding''s entire being quivered, hastily stifling his burgeoning rage.

    Indeed, Yun Xiao was one who could even y Lin Chen.

    A fawning smile hurriedly painted itself across Duanmu Ling''s face, addressing Yun Xiao, "Young Sword Lord speaks the truth. We realize our mistake and will make ourselves scarce immediately. Is that eptable?"

    Yun Xiao chuckled. "Are the Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower truly so spineless?"

    "Yes, yes, yes! We''re indeed spineless. Please, calm your anger! A person of your stature surely won¡¯t bother with the likes of us!" Duanmu Ling responded, maintaining his smile.

    "..." Yun Xiao hardly expected this turn of events. Damn it! This wasn''t following the script! His animosity couldn''t even muster itself!

    "Young Sword Lord, we shall take our leave now. Please, enjoy your drink." Duanmu Ling, still wearing that sheepish smile, bowed and nodded, pulling Yan Ding backward with him in retreat.

    Yun Xiao watched as they fled from the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    The surrounding onlookers shared awkward, subdued chuckles.

    Those two Heaven Chosen from the Forbidden Tower nearly knelt; Yun Xiao wouldn¡¯t actually kill them, would he?

    As anticipated, Yun Xiao departed without uttering a word. He found himself once again before Madam Qian.

    "Do you have a map?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Of where?" Madam Qian asked, a yful smirk adorning her visage.

    "A map of the Sea of Swords, preferably one detailing whose house is where!" Yun Xiao responded.

    "I do!" Madam Qian produced a map, marking it on the spot for him.

    Yun Xiao, his brows slightly furrowed, noticed at least ten red circles drawn upon it!

    The residences of the Forbidden Tower¡¯s Ten Great Elders!

    "You''re truly ruthless," Yun Xiao said to Madam Qian.

    "What are you talking about? Your sister here is just lending a hand!" Madam Qian retorted, rolling her eyes in faux indignation.

    "Thank you!" Yun Xiao, pocketing the map, pivoted to leave.

    "Halt!" Madam Qian bellowed.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked, turning back.

    With a sly grin, Madam Qian dered, "That map will be one¡ª!"

    "That cheap?" Yun Xiao eximed in astonishment. His hand pped the counter, and in the next moment, he vanished into the night.

    "Hundred thousand Spirit Stones..." Madam Qian froze. A single Spirit Stone twirled before her eyes.

    "Damn it, paying one upfront, huh? Including interest, you now owe me 990,000 Spirit Stones!" Madam Qian muttered, her lips curling up.

 Chapter 106 - The Young Sword Lord Possesses the Qualities of a Heavenly Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 106 - The Young Sword Lord Possesses the Qualities of a Heavenly Emperor</h4>

    "Yun Xiao!" The youth emerged from the Spirit Treasure Walk, and barely stepping into the shadows, someone called out his name.

    "Elder Wang?" Yun Xiao swiftly melted into the darkness. As the two moved in silence, he guided Elder Wang to an even more secluded spot.

    "The Sea of Swords is rather perilous, what brings you to seek me here?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Your Senior Sister Zhao was worried about you," Elder Wang, pping a friendly hand onto his shoulder, confided with a hint of admiration. "She sent me to scout for information. And I tell you, I wouldn¡¯t have known if I hadn¡¯te¡ªwhat a shock it was to hear of your exploits! How many days have you been in the Sea of Swords? Truly like a young cow controlling a grand sword¡ªyou¡¯ve remarkably soared to impressive heights!"

    "..." Yun Xiao didn''t know how to respond. Still, he was concerned Zhao Xuanran might have encountered problems while descending to the mortal realm to exterminate demons! He hoped she was safe.

    "Oh, how is my master doing?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Your Aunt Yu says he¡¯s managing," Elder Wang replied. "Perhaps because his spirits are lifted, having something to look forward to, his willpower has strengthened too! Take your time, he can wait for you for ten days, even half a month!"

    "Oh? Then let¡¯s wait for the free Sword Tempering Pills!" Yun Xiao chuckled. That would save him 2,000,000 Spirit Stones.

    "There''s free ones?" Elder Wang''s face mirrored his curiosity.

    "Yes! Someone''s insisting on stuffing them into my pocket. We shouldn¡¯t be too polite as people, right?" Yun Xiao responded with a smile.

    "Oh!" Elder Wang, a bit perplexed but disying concern on his face, earnestly asked, "Yun Xiao, I just heard that Ye Guying ising out of seclusion the day after tomorrow. Hisbat power might beparable to the Sword Lord or the Tower Lord now!"

    "Even you¡¯ve heard about it?" Yun Xiao responded coolly.

    "The entire Sea of Swords is buzzing about it," Elder Wang gritted his teeth, "Do you have confidence? If not, you mighty low for a while. After all, we think you''re ten thousand times more remarkable than Ye Guying!"

    "Ha ha." Yun Xiao suddenlyughed, "Lay low? No, no. Isn¡¯t he only opening the Heavenly Gate toe out the day after tomorrow? I have already prepared a special surprise for him."

    "Special surprise?" Elder Wang paused, befuddled.

    "What¡¯s that?"

    "You¡¯ll know if youe to watch when the timees."

    After speaking, Yun Xiao waved goodbye and, clutching the map in his hand, his white robe vanished into the darkness, leaving behind a single sentence.

    "I''m off to prepare the package now, see youter!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Sea of Swords, in the courtyard of the Duanmu Manor, two elders were deeply engrossed in a game of chess.

    To the left sat a hunched-back old man, and to the right, an elderly gentleman with gleaming white eyebrows and a bald pate. They were both in the Sovereign Dragon Realm, Great Elders of the Forbidden Tower¡ªDuanmu Yao and Yan Guo. Their aura was profound, mystical energy coiling like dragons around them. Their eyes, sharply discerning, handled each chess piece as if gripping a ferocious beast, cing it on the board. The small chessboard resembled a battlefield, where the heavens and earth seemed to crumble amidst the ughter of war.

    Time meandered by.

    ¡°Brother Duanmu, your chess skills are extraordinary. I''m in awe,¡± Yan Guomended with a polite bow and a smile.

    ¡°Brother Yan, your strategy, though fresh from recent learning, is quite admirable indeed!¡± Duanmu Yaoughed heartily.

    ¡°Shall we conclude tonight¡¯s game?¡± Yan Guo asked.

    ¡°Hmm!¡± Duanmu Yao lifted his head. ¡°The moonlight is quite fine. Shall we have a few drinks first?¡±

    ¡°Agreed.¡± Yan Guo¡¯s face brightened with a rosy hue, for he indeed enjoyed a good tipple.

    Under the moon, the old friends sipped their wine, savoring the leisure and contentment of these smaller moments in life.

    ¡°After the substantial loss we suffered at the Spirit Treasure Walk yesterday, and the numerous insults to our dignity by Sword Heaven, the Tower Lord has yet to show any response. This is not right!¡± Yan Guo''s eyes held a distant depth as he broached the topic.

    ¡°What''s truly intolerable was the incident at Azure Kite Sea. That¡¯s something we of the Forbidden Tower simply cannot ept!¡± Duanmu Yao dered calmly.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Yan Guo gazed toward a distant, chilly tower. ¡°In two days, Ye Guying will emerge from seclusion, attaining thebat power equivalent to the Tower Lord. We shall endure silently for two more days!¡±

    ¡°After tonight, there''ll be one day left,¡± Duanmu Yao stated.

    ¡°It will pass in the blink of an eye,¡± Yan Guo said.

    ¡°Brother Yan, do you think that after Ye Guying eliminates that Yun Xiao, the Tower Lord will seize the opportunity to take down Sword Heaven and kill Lin Qingfeng?¡± inquired Duanmu Yao.

    ¡°I can¡¯t quite figure them out,¡± Yan Guo replied.

    ¡°How so?¡±

    ¡°For years, the rtionship between the Tower Lord and his brother-inw seemed ordinary on the surface, but I believe it must be quite good behind closed doors, right? They¡¯ve consented to several unions among the younger generation recently. Lin Qingfeng suddenly making such a move... it''s too peculiar,¡± Yan Guo shared.

    ¡°I don¡¯t quite understand the Sword Lord! After staying secluded and simple for over a decade, he''s bound to have some entricities!¡± Duanmu Yao turned towards Yan Guo and suddenly spoke with solemnity, ¡°There¡¯s something I¡¯m not sure whether I should mention.¡±

    ¡°Speak, Brother, we have a rtionship forged in life and death,¡± Yan Guo reassured.

    ¡°The Tower Lord increasingly disregards us, making all decisions unterally, lofty and distant, leaving us to guess!¡± Duanmu Yao sighed.

    ¡°I¡¯ve also sensed it,¡± Yan Guo murmured, his gaze deep and far-reaching, ¡°Is it because, over these years, the growth of our family¡¯s power has squeezed the Xiao Family¡¯s financial space?¡±

    ¡°It seems so!¡± Duanmu Yao asserted.

    "There''s no helping it; we can''t just not make money, can we? We''re all one big family here, all waiting for our share of demon bones, Spirit Stones, and treasure armors!" Yan Guo spoke with a light indifference.

    "True! But no matter what, we''re backed by the Forbidden Tower, sharing its benefits! Once Ye Guying deals with Yun Xiao, he will participate in the War of Immortals. With his talents, he''s bound to capture the attention of the Heavenly Realm¡¯s mighty beings and forces; I doubt he''ll return. If the Tower Lord wants to suppress the Sea of Swords, we''ll still be of great use," Duanmu Yao added unassumingly.

    Usefulness meant not getting kicked to the curb!

    "Returning to the previous topic, with Lin Qingfeng making such a fuss, will the Tower Lord kill his brother-inw?" Yan Guo asked.

    "We can only wait and see!" Duanmu Yao shed a cold smile, "But whether he kills him or not, this time, he is sure to subdue Sword Heaven!"

    "When the news of Ye Guying achieving the Sovereign Dragon Realm in eight days reaches Sword Heaven, those ancient ancestors and Great Sword Venerables will probably lose sleep, hehe..." Yan Guo¡¯s sinister chuckle lingered.

    Just as the echo of his voice faded, two young men entered.

    "Grandfather!" Both bowed in greeting.

    It was Duanmu Ling and Yan Ding, the two Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower.

    They had just returned from the Spirit Treasure Walk!

    "What''s the matter?" Seeing their gloomy expressions, Duanmu Yao inquired.

    "We encountered Yun Xiao at the Spirit Treasure Walk!" Yan Ding, clenching his teeth, mes seemingly flickering in his eyes, narrated the encounter.

    After listening, Duanmu Yao nodded, "You responded well. The path of cultivation is filled with countless strong individuals. Avoid verbal disputes, bow your head when you should; living is of utmost importance!"

    "Otherwise, you¡¯ll meet the same fate as Fan Jian and Xiao Xing''er." Yan Guo added, his voice grave.

    "Grandfather, but I still feel suffocated!" Duanmu Ling, fists clenched, eyes fierce, confessed.

    "In two days, Yun Xiao and Sword Heaven will surely pay the price," Duanmu Yao assured.

    "In this cultivation journey, not every enemy must be confronted by you personally. You have your ns, your elders, and the invincible Forbidden Tower as your backing. You can flexibly respond and bully others by relying on our power, understand?" Yan Ding imparted with earnest gravity.

    "We understand!" Hearing this, the young men felt slightly better, momentarily forgetting the day¡¯s humiliation.

    Just then, a middle-aged Sword Cultivator hurriedly entered to report!

    "Elders, Yun Xiao is here, challenging us outside our Duanmu Manor!"

    "Challenging? How many with him? Any powerful beings from Sword Heaven present?" Duanmu Yao asked sternly.

    "None! Just him alone!"

    "He darese to the residence of the Forbidden Tower''s Great Elders alone?" Duanmu Yao and Yan Guo exchanged a nce.

    "How is he challenging us?" Yan Guo asked with a dark tone.

    "He said, he said¡ª-" The middle-aged sword cultivator¡¯s face twisted with indignant fury, his words momentarily stifled by his own rage.

    ¡°Speak!¡± demanded one of the elders.

    ¡°Yun Xiao shouted for all 170 members of the Duanmu Manor to get the hell out here and face him!¡± the man eventually spat out, anger and disbelief saturating each word.

    ¡°What utter nonsense!¡± Both Yan Guo and Duanmu Yao''s faces darkened simultaneously.

    Teeth gritted, the middle-aged man continued, ¡°He demands we promptly exit our abode to meet our demise, iming he¡¯ll eradicate us on behalf of Sword Heaven! Several who confronted him have already fallen to his sword, their heads now crushed beneath his feet!¡±

    ¡°To hell with him!¡± Yan Ding couldn¡¯t hold back a growl. ¡°Grandfather, he¡¯s just one man, daring to threaten all of Forbidden Tower into staying indoors¡ªwe¡¯ve been patient! And now he dares toe here, alone, and attack us! Does he truly believe that Forbidden Tower won''t exterminate him? Even if Ye Guying wanted to kill him personally, can¡¯t we disable him first?¡±

    ¡°If we allow him to continue his raucous ruckus outside our Duanmu Manor without responding, where does that leave the face of the Forbidden Tower? The Sword Cultivators throughout the Sea of Swords will dieughing at us!¡± Duanmu Ling was simrly unable to bear it any longer.

    ¡°Grandfather! Yun Xiao doesn¡¯t know you¡¯re here. The two of you are Sovereign Dragon Realm Sword Cultivators, seasoned and proficient inbat with numerous kills under your belts. You could join forces and deal with him, then directly deliver him to Ye Guying¡¯s doorstep!¡± Yan Ding''s eyes were bloodshot as he spoke to Yan Guo.

    To not only restrict their movements but also audaciously challenge them at their own doorstep, this was an egregious affront! And crucially, it was done by just one man!

    The two young men fixed hopeful eyes upon their elders.

    However, Duanmu Yao¡¯s next words were like a basin of cold water dousing their heads!

    ¡°If he has such courage, he must be confident in his own strength! I predict that he¡¯s even stronger than the one he killed during the day, Lin Chen. If so, should Brother Yan and I act rashly, we''ll most likely meet our demise!¡± Duanmu Yao dered.

    ¡°Is that even possible?¡± Duanmu Ling was momentarily stupefied. It seemed that his grandfather was indeed more patient than him.

    ¡°You, go and send a message! Notify the Tower Lord and the other elders, have theme here quickly!¡± Yan Guo ordered the middle-aged man.

    ¡°Yes!¡± The sword cultivator hurried off to make the arrangements.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go meet this Sword Heaven prodigy,¡± Duanmu Yao and Yan Guo exchanged nces.

    By the time the two Sovereign Dragon Realm Great Elders arrived outside the manor, a crowd of Duanmu Sword Cultivators had already gathered at the entrance. Their eyes roiling tempests of murderous intent, they stared at the young man in white outside their gates.

    Beneath the young man¡¯s foot, several severed heads were cruelly trampled! All the fallen belonged to the Duanmu Manor! One was even the younger brother of Duanmu Ling!

    ¡°Oh? There¡¯s another Great Elder here as well? Might I inquire as to your name?¡± Yun Xiao cast his gaze toward the bald, white-eyebrowed old man.

    ¡°Yan Guo,¡± the Great Elder responded curtly.

    "I see!" Yun Xiao''s gaze swept over them coldly. "The Forbidden Tower has dered war on Sword Heaven! As a member of Sword Heaven, I share no sky with the Forbidden Tower! Today, I¡¯vee to Duanmu Mansion to conduct a blood sacrifice..."

    His promation was cut short by Duanmu Yao, who interrupted with a chuckle, announcing loudly, "I was wondering who it could be, turns out it¡¯s the talented Young Sword Lord from Sword Heaven. I''ve long heard of the Young Sword Lord¡¯s emperor-like qualities; seeing you today indeed proves you''re extraordinary."

    Yan Guo also joined in with a smirk, "Today, with the Young Sword Lord gracing us, Duanmu Mansion is illuminated with glory! Young Sword Lord, pleasee inside!"

    "..." Yun Xiao stared at them, incredulous. <i>Those two scoundrels, always ying out of turn. Ruining my Dao heart!</i>

    With a nonchnt kick, Yun Xiao sent the head of Duanmu Yao¡¯s grandson rolling to his feet, asking, "Are you sure you want to entertain me?"

    Unfazed, Duanmu Yao stepped on the head with no change in his expression, awkwardly smiling, "Having the honor to host the Young Sword Lord is my pleasure!"

    "Alright, then entertain away. Bring out all the finest food and drink!" Yun Xiao replied with a faint smile.

    "What are you all standing there for? Show your respect!" Duanmu Yao bellowed at those nearby.

    "Yes..." Yan Ding, Duanmu Ling, the two Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower, along with a host of Duanmu Sword Cultivators, suppressed their inner fury. Bowing their heads, they forced smiles onto their faces, greeting, "Wee Young Sword Lord!"

    "Your politeness honors me, brothers," Yun Xiao responded, entering Duanmu Manor at their invitation.

    <i>BANG! </i>The grand doors of Duanmu Manor closed tightly. The gathered Duanmu family members stood, thoughts lingering on the severed heads outside. They suppressed their murderous intentions with all their might.

    "Nobody move! Wait for others!" Duanmu Ling took a deep breath, speaking to the others with a face turning from purple to blue.

    Before his words fully settled, his grandfather''s voice rang out, "Lil Ling, Lil Ding,e in and pour the wine!"

    "Yes!" Upon entering the guest hall, Duanmu Ling and Yan Ding saw Yun Xiao seated prominently at the head of the room, while their grandfathers, respected elders of the Forbidden Tower, waited below.

    Their faces twisted yet still, they managed to maintain smiles, pouring a full cup for Yun Xiao.

    "Young Sword Lord! Please!" Duanmu Ling said.

    Yun Xiao gave them a cursory nce, "A full cup, are you implying you want me to leave?"

    "I was wrong!" Duanmu Ling hastily swapped for a different cup, pouring again.

    Yun Xiao abruptly stood, pping Duanmu Ling atop his head. Duanmu Ling cried out in pain, copsing to his knees!

    "Where are your manners? Don''t you know how to kneel while offering a drink?" Yun Xiao said.

    "You!" Rage boiled in Duanmu Ling''s heart, but seeing his grandfather shaking his head, he swallowed it down, forcing a smile, "Young Sword Lord, my apologies, please drink."

    "That¡¯s more like it." Yun Xiao then turned to Yan Ding.

    Yan Ding took a deep breath, also kneeling down.

    "Young Sword Lord, these young ones aren¡¯t ready for the stage. How about the two of us elders keep youpany until we''re all thoroughly intoxicated?" Duanmu Yao asked with a smile.

    "Get lost. Who wants to drink with an old thing like you?" Yun Xiao threw the wine pot at Duanmu Yao¡¯s face, jeering, "Not an ounce of perception. Hurry up and arrange some girls for me! Don¡¯t bring any old hags either!"

 Chapter 107 - Whos your Heavenly Daddy?

    <h4>Chapter 107 - Who''s your Heavenly Daddy?</h4>

    "You!" Duanmu Yao was livid. Yet he held his temper in check. Such audacity could onlye from a ce of confidence. His aged face bore a red imprint, but he dutifully set to work.

    "He can tolerate that?" Yun Xiao mused with a disdainful chuckle.

    Suddenly, he rose, nonchntly picking up a square iron te from the table. With a swift motion, he smashed it over Yan Ding''s head.

    "Ahh!" Yan Ding shrieked. His head split open, blood gushing out. Yun Xiao, with one swift kick to Yan Ding''s face, sent him flying out into the guest hall, blood pooling beneath him.

    Hearing his grandson''s agonized cries, Yan Guo gritted his teeth. "Young Sword Lord, we''ve treated you with respect. Why this unprovoked violence?"

    "I don''t like baldies," Yun Xiao stated inly.

    Yan Guo was taken aback. He himself was bald.

    Seeing Yun Xiao''s gaze shift to Duanmu Ling, Duanmu Yao quickly grabbed his grandson by the cor and threw him out of the way. He then smiled at Yun Xiao, saying, "Young Sword Lord, perhaps just us two old bones should keep youpany."

    "Young Sword Lord, you must stay tonight. We''ll drink with you at a leisurely pace," Yan Guo''s expression suddenly twisted menacingly.

    "Growing a backbone all of a sudden?" Yun Xiao nced outside. "Expectingpany?"

    No sooner had he spoken than three figures entered¡ªa man in violet robes, an elder in gray, and an old woman.

    "Xiao Yuan! Chen Xiao! Sun Lingyu!" Upon seeing them, the murderous intent in Yan Guo''s eyes red uncontrobly. Five Great Elders from the Forbidden Tower, all of whom were in the Sovereign Dragon Realm.

    They had arrived swiftly. They nodded and bowed, managing to restrain Yun Xiao and preventing further casualties.

    Among them, the man named Xiao Yuan in the violet robes was famous In his youth, he was a strong contender for the tower''s leadership. Before Ye Guying emerged from seclusion, he was the second strongest in the Forbidden Tower and the third in the Sea of Swords.

    As they entered, their icy res locked onto Yun Xiao.

    Along the way, word of Yun Xiao''s audacious behavior had reached them. And seeing Yan Ding''s bloodied and bruised, they became even more outraged by how far Yun Xiao was taking things.

    "Let''s get him now!" Duanmu Yao dered, his voice dripping with malevolence.

    Though he was the calmest among them, he was, paradoxically, also the most enraged.

    <i>KLANG KLANG! </i>Five Great Elders of the Sovereign Dragon Realm abruptly drew their Sword Souls! Each of their Sword Auras was at least forty-fiveyers thick, and they each wielded two Sword Rings!

    Each one was enveloped by a dragon-shaped magic aura, their presence heavy and powerful, as if true dragons had descended upon the world. For a moment, the weight of theirbined might seemed to overshadow the entire guest hall.

    <i>BOOM! </i>With a swift move, Duanmu Yao and Yan Guo mmed the guest hall doors shut. Those doors, crafted from thick steel, shut out the world beyond.

    <i>BANG BANG BANG! </i>From every direction, all the window shutters fell into ce, emphasizing that this guest hall had been turned into a veritable trap!

    "He''s trapped inside! He''s as good as dead!" Duanmu Ling, picking himself up, felt all his pent-up frustrations transform into murderous intent.

    "Kill him!" Yan Ding, despite being in extreme pain, managed to growl out his directive.

    "Kill!" All of Duanmu''s household, none willing to depart, congregated outside the guest hall, eagerly awaiting the news of Yun Xiao''s demise so they could erupt into jubtion.

    "Even if he doesn''t die today, he''ll be crippled!"

    "Cut off everything on him that doesn''t concern his life!"

    How dare someone threaten everyone in the Forbidden Tower? How dare someone surround the elder''s residence? How could they possibly tolerate this?

    Never before had the Great Elders of the Forbidden Tower encountered such brazen provocation. And they wouldn''t stand for it now.

    Inside the guest hall, they spread out swiftly, encircling Yun Xiao.

    Without a word, the five, in their years of camaraderie, made their move. They couldn''t afford any dy, for if the Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng arrived, all their efforts would be in vain.

    <i>ROAR! </i>Five swords flew, like five mighty dragons, from different directions, lunging directly at Yun Xiao, as if aiming to bite his head off.

    "Even Lin Qingfeng wouldn''t dare to provoke us in our own house. How could you?" Duanmu Yao thought, a sinister expression on his face, leading the charge.

    From his hand, a deep-yellow Sword Soul unfurled, causing the ground to shake. Massive rocks and swirling sands gathered, aiming to engulf Yun Xiao!

    This was abination of the Sword Soul''s property and demon magic!

    Surrounded by a palpable intent to kill, Yun Xiao''s eyes turned icy cold. His raven-ck hair danced wildly, and his white robe fluttered. An azure sword shot forth from his grip. Red and blue Sword Rings, each with a history of five thousand years, adorned the sword. They channeled two overpowering enchantments¡ªthe Thousand Waters Lure and the Ghostly Inferno¡ªboth fearsome and eye-catching.

    Coupled with a hundredyers of Sword Aura, the sword in Yun Xiao''s grasp utterly overshadowed the Great Elders. The oldest among them only boasted Sword Rings around three thousand years old.

    "You slew the Sword Lord''s son, yet the Sword Lord gifted you his son''s Sword Rings?" Xiao Yuan, the middle-aged man in violet robes, nearly choked on his disbelief. "Are you sure you''re not Lin Qingfeng''s illegitimate son?"

    He found the situationpletely absurd!

    "Are the Sword Rings the reason you dare run rampant in my domain?" Duanmu Yao thought, a n forming. Good thing he''d been suspicious! Now that he''d seen Yun Xiao''s full hand, he felt a strange certainty. He attacked with renewed ferocity. With a tumultuous roar, a sword stirred up a sandstorm, its tip piercing straight for Yun Xiao''s heart.

    But as the sword neared, Yun Xiao, with a glint of murderous intent, locked eyes on Duanmu Yao. He roared, "Duanmu Yao, by the Sword Lord''s decree, I''m here for your treacherous life!"

    His shout resonated, making the entire hall quake. Those outside heard every word.

    The moment Yun Xiao spoke, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul morphed into a Flying Sword. A Flying Sword with two five-thousand-year-old rings!

    With a resonant twang, the intertwined red and blue of the verdant Flying Sword burst forth from his hand, bing a radiant streak of light, hurtling at Duanmu Yao with terrifying speed.

    <i>Sun Moon Divine Light, Rainbow Through The Heavens!</i>

    Sun and moon in its wake, the sword''s brilliance could pierce the heavens¡ªthe swiftest, fiercest strike of the Sea of Swords, bathed in the attribute of light.

    A sh of the de, piercing the night!

    With a shrill scream, the sword was upon Duanmu Yao in the blink of an eye.

    "So fast!" Duanmu Yao''s face drained of color as he frantically altered his sword stance, shing in defense.

    His Palm Sword was swift, striking the beam of light in a split second.

    "I''ve blocked it!" Relief washed over Duanmu Yao. But in the next heartbeat, his face contorted in horror, his eyes spasming.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The moment his Palm Sword met Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword, it shattered. Unrelenting, Yun Xiao''s sword continued its deadly trajectory, impaling Duanmu Yao and mming him against the barred window.

    A deafening ng echoed through the room. In an instant, the iron bars glowed crimson with blood.

    "Ugh..." Duanmu Yao''s eyes bulged as he slid down the bloody bars, drawing his final breath. Wisps of blue fog encircled his chest where signs of burning mes, icy frost, and rotting flesh coexisted¡ªthe devastatingbined effects of the Sword Soul and Sword Rings.

    Duanmu Yao was dead. Just like that.

    The swiftness of the heaven piercing rainbow startled everyone, sending the remaining four Great Elders'' hearts into an erratic flutter.

    "Duanmu!" Yan Guo cried out at the sight of Duanmu Yao''s lifeless body, rage clouding his vision.

    Xiao Yuan, on the other hand, nced nervously at the iron door. "Did we lock it too soon?"

    For a moment, all four Great Elders set their sights on Yun Xiao, their guard up.

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao retrieved his Flying Sword and looked at Duanmu Yao''s corpse. He couldn''t help but chuckle, "You thought you could predict my strength. Unfortunately, I''m always a step ahead."

    Thinking that just five of them could trap him? Yun Xiao fixed his burning gaze on the remaining four and bellowed, "You Forbidden Tower vermin! For years you''ve oppressed the Sea of Swords, exploiting our Sword Heaven disciples and stealing our resources. Today, I stand firm, inheriting my ancestors'' will and the essence of Sword Heaven. We can no longer share the same sky!"

    Xiao Yuan and his crew were taken aback.

    "Dear Sword Lord, I regret mistakenly killing your son. Tonight, I''ll take up the mantle of his sword''s spirit and in his stead, use the heads of the Forbidden Tower Great Elders to repay the kindness you''ve shown me!"

    Yun Xiao''s passion surged like boiling blood, his eyes zing with fury. Without hesitation, he charged at his four adversaries.

    "Yun Xiao!" Yan Guo growled, but the young man''s speed was astonishing. Despite not having reached the Sovereign Dragon Realm, his overwhelming magic power was nearly iprehensible.

    "Together!" Another Great Elder, the grey-robed Chen Xiao, lunged from the side, joining forces with Yan Guo to corner Yun Xiao.

    <i>KLANG KLANG! </i>Meanwhile, Xiao Yuan and the old woman unleashed their Flying Swords from behind. They weren''t taking any chances. Even so, Yun Xiao''s speed was nothing short of terrifying. But even quicker than him was his sword.

    With one swift stroke, the young man in white¡¯s Palm Sword transformed into a crescent moon, sweeping across the battlefield.

    ¡°Sun Moon Divine Light, Gentle Breeze Bright Moon!¡±

    Yan Guo was utterly taken aback.

    Sun Moon Divine Light consisted of three sword techniques¡ªone Flying Sword, and two Palm Swords. The Flying Sword represented the sun; the Palm Sword, the moon. Gentle Breeze Bright Moon was one of the Palm Sword techniques.

    A blend of light and wind, this Star grade technique was once showcased by the Sword Lord over the Sea of Swords...

    Now, Yun Xiao, a mere sixteen-year-old, had mastered a sword technique that usually required over a decade to perfect. Yan Guo''s mind screamed, "If he isn¡¯t Lin Qingfeng¡¯s secret offspring, then who is?"

    No wonder he was brought back by Ning Yan. No wonder she was so protective of him. Maybe he was even birthed by Ning Yan herself!

    Such thoughts rapidly fluttered through the minds of the Forbidden Tower¡¯s four Great Elders. But just as swiftly, Yun Xiao¡¯s prowess yanked them back to the grim reality.

    The Gentle Breeze Bright Moon was as swift as lightning. Amidst the storm, Yun Xiao lunged at Yan Guo and Chen Xiao. His sword, luminous as the moon, shed horizontally.

    <i>KLANG KLANG! </i>Two resounding Sword Rings echoed. Yan Guo and Chen Xiao felt a stinging pain in their hands, their swordy suppressed, their eyes widened in terror.

    ¡°So powerful!¡± By the time they realized this, Yun Xiao''s sword had already swept past their necks.

    <i>THUD THUD! </i>Two heads, eyes still wide in shock, crashed against the iron door, causing another powerful tremor.

    ¡°How''s the battle going?¡± The people outside the hall were utterly baffled, unable to see the oue. All they sensed was the fiercebat within.

    "Can a young man like Yun Xiao really stand up to five Sovereign Dragon Realm Great Elders?" The crowd felt a chill run down their spines.

    ¡°It should be over soon! Once the door opens, Yun Xiao is doomed!¡± Duanmu Ling proimed fiercely.

    At this moment, Yun Xiao, having just in two, spun around with a sword swift as a tempest, pinpointing a Sword Soul heading straight for him and delivering a decisive sh.

    With a resounding crash, the Flying Sword shattered instantly!

    Such was the awe-inspiring might of five-thousand-year-old Sword Rings, coupled with a hundredyer Sword Aura!

    After the destruction of her sword, the old woman''s spirit dispersed. Froth oozed from her lips as she copsed, spasming on the ground, practically on death''s doorstep.

    However, these Great Elders were far from defenseless. As Yun Xiao deftly took down three of them, a sudden sh of a violet Flying Sword struck him in the chest, mming him into the iron bars.

    <i>BOOM! </i>For a moment, stars shimmered before his eyes.

    ¡°The kid''s toast!¡± Xiao Yuan eximed, sweat pouring from his brow, his heart racing.

    Atst, he''s gone! He knew all too well that if that Flying Sword hadn''t finished Yun Xiao, he''d be next on the hit list.

    Sure, the Sword Lord and Forbidden Tower Lord might be more intimidating, but they wouldn''t resort to such bloody measures.

    With this strike, there was no turning back in this factional war.

    And that''s precisely why Xiao Yuan feared Yun Xiao. He was a young, impulsive force of nature, leaving a trail of bodies in his wake. The real terrory in these fierce, wild souls, devoid of any worldly considerations.

    ¡°Phew!¡± Xiao Yuan heaved a sigh, stretching out his hand to call back his Flying Sword.

    Yet, the sword remained embedded!

    ¡°Stuck in the bone, perhaps?¡± Xiao Yuan murmured, peering closely.

    The young man in white suddenly lifted his head, a smirk ying on his lips. ¡°What a pity!¡±

    Cold terror crept over Xiao Yuan. ¡°It can''t be!¡± By all ounts, a sword to the chest was a death sentence!

    Trembling, Xiao Yuan''s gaze fixed on Yun Xiao¡¯s chest. There, a tiny ck beast emerged, its mouth gaping wide and blood-red.

    At that moment, the creature spat out Xiao Yuan''s violet Sword Soul, followed by several of its sharp fangs!

    ¡°My teeth! Ahhh that really hurt. You better kill him for me!¡± Red Moon wailed.

    "W-what!?" Xiao Yuan muttered in fear, a cold chill washing over him as he tried to retreat.

    "See you in the next life!" Yun Xiao stepped closer, delivering another sword strike. Swift and as luminous as the moon. Xiao Yuan desperately pulled back his Sword Soul, transforming it into a Palm Sword to deflect the attack. Still, he couldn''t withstand the second strike. Yun Xiao''s Sword Ring''s storm effortlessly severed his head.

    "Ahh!" Xiao Yuan''s agonizing scream resonated, casting an air of confusion over the onlookers outside.

    Suddenly, the guest hall fell silent.

    "Yun Xiao must have been executed!" Duanmu Ling dered with rising hope. Yet, just as his words settled, the doors were shed open.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Amidst the dancing dust, a young man in white emerged, holding five heads.

    <i>THUD! </i>The scene stunned over a hundred bystanders, paralyzing them like lightning-struck trees.

    "Grandpa..." Duanmu Ling and Yan Ding stood frozen, unable to move.

    The entire Duanmu Manor was eerily silent.

    With a cold re, Yun Xiao surveyed his surroundings, causing the paralyzed crowd to scream, "Run!"

    But with just a single step forward and a sweeping motion of his sword, rays of moonlight shot forth.

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>Heads soared, as if propelled by a single stroke.

    "Time to collect!" Yun Xiao remarked, scooping up the loot. He amassed over 13,000,000 Spirit Stones, countless heavenly pills, armors, daoist spells, and sword techniques.

    "These five Great Elders from the Forbidden Tower were wealthy beyond measure," Yun Xiao mused. "Today, they left in haste, bringing but a fraction of their fortune. Their real wealth lies in their holdings in the Sea of Swords."

    Satisfied with his haul, Yun Xiao decided to forgo thebor-intensive task of iming the properties. "Not a bad day," he grinned.

    With his Sword Soul, he etched three lines on the door.

    ¡¸<i>Though alone, I, Yun Xiao, dare challenge the Forbidden Tower''s mightiest.</i>

    <i>Disagree? Come to Sword Heaven. Our ten thousand Sword Cultivators await you.</i>¡¹

    <strong><i>P.S.</i></strong><i> Who''s your Heavenly daddy?</i>¡¹

    With that, Yun Xiao, holding five heads, eagerly rode his Sovereign Sword towards Sword Heaven, eximing, "Master, I''ve made a name for Sword Heaven!"

 Chapter 108 - Heart Shocking Surprise

    <h4>Chapter 108 - Heart Shocking Surprise</h4>

    <i>DONG! </i>A sonorous bell toll echoed through the night sky of Sword Heaven, rousing tens of thousands of meditating and resting Sword Cultivators.

    <i>DONG DONG DONG DONG! </i>The bell rang ceaselessly, each peal louder and more urgent than thest. It was as though it heralded death itself!

    "Who rang the Jade Sun Bell?"

    "I don''t know! Hurry to the Jade Sun Tower!"

    Every Sword Cultivator in Sword Heaven knew that when the Jade Sun Bell tolled, it signaled an emergency. All Sword Cultivators were to prepare for battle against a threat that concerned the whole of Sword Heaven or even higher!

    Of course, anyone without the proper authority who rang the bell as a prank would face severe punishment. This was no joking matter!

    "We might truly go to war with the Forbidden Tower!"

    Most of the Sword Cultivators in Sword Heaven weren''t entirely privy to the political games between their faction and the Forbidden Tower. They could only specte based on recent events. The ringing of the Jade Sun Bell now struck a sensitive chord in all their hearts!

    <i>DONG DONG DONG! </i>The bell''s tolls reached the farthest corners of the Sea of Swords. Even though it was the dead of night, lights illuminated one pce after another across the sea. Sword Cultivators opened their windows, their faces etched with confusion, all turning towards the direction of Sword Heaven.

    The Sea of Swords was in utter chaos!

    Inside Sword Heaven, countless Sword Cultivators went on high alert. Donning their magic treasure armors, they mounted their Sovereign Swords and converged on the Jade Sun Tower.

    In just a brief moment, hundreds had already gathered at the base of the tower.

    "Who rang the Jade Sun Bell?" Second Uncle Lin and Murong Li, among other top brass of Sword Heaven, arrived. Leading a group, they ascended to the top floor of the Jade Sun Tower, their gazes intensely searching the horizon.

    Beneath the dim moonlight, they spotted a young man in in white robes. His attire was simple, but he exuded an aura that made him seem otherworldly, as if he stood high above the clouds.

    "Yun Xiao, do you realize the implications of ringing the Jade Sun Bell?" Second Uncle Lin''s eyes shed with anger as he stared him down.

    "You truly act recklessly, going against all norms!" Murong Li chided.

    News of Ye Guying reaching the Mid Sovereign Dragon Realm had spread, putting every member of Sword Heaven on edge. Both ancestors were already under immense pressure and were understandably irritated.

    So what if you, Yun Xiao, defied the heavens? Ye Guying was already on par with a Sword Lord!

    Yun Xiao cast them a cool nce, replying, "Rest assured, both of you. As the Young Sword Lord, I know my responsibilities."

    "If you dared to fool all of Sword Heaven without cause, even as the Young Sword Lord, you''d be stripped of your status and cultivation!" Murong Li, with his aged face contorted in fury, pointed usingly at Yun Xiao.

    By this time, Ancestor Ning, Ning Que, Ning Yan, and other members of the Ning family had also arrived.

    They all looked at Yun Xiao with puzzled expressions but held their tongues.

    "As soon as the Sword Lord arrives, I promise to unveil a grand surprise to everyone present!" Yun Xiao dered, a glint of excitement lighting up his eyes, as he addressed the gathering with a confident smile.

    "A grand surprise?"

    The assembly of ancestors, Great Sword Venerables, Sword Heaven''s senior members, and the steadily growing throng of disciples exchanged baffled nces, curiosity bubbling within.

    What could possibly be this grand surprise?

    "Alright, let''s see what tricks you still have up your sleeve!" Second Uncle Lin remarked.

    "He might''ve been so spooked by the news of Ye Guying that he''s lost his marbles," Murong Li sneered, his voice dripping with contempt.

    "Let''s just wait for the Sword Lord!"

    After Lin Chen''s death, morale in Sword Heaven had been shattered. With the recent news of Ye Guying, their spirits had suffered yet another blow. Hopes were dim as none saw Yun Xiao possessing any means to counter Ye Guying''s might.

    "Why hasn''t the Sword Lord arrived yet?"

    "The Jade Sun Bell has already been rung!"

    "All of Sword Heaven''s cultivators have gathered!"

    In the crowd, even Lin Lin was present. All that was missing were the Sword Lord and his spouse, Xiao Yu.

    Surveying the scene before Jade Sun Tower, tens of thousands of Sword Heaven''s cultivators had assembled. Every single one of them, possessing at least a Moon grade Sword Soul, exuded immense power, their eyes gleaming with determination.

    "They''re here!" Finally, under the collective gaze of the masses, the white-haired Sword Lord and Madame Xiao arrived,nding gracefully atop Jade Sun Tower. The Sword Lord appeared noticeably pale, with beads of sweat on his forehead, hinting at a certain weakness.

    Over the past decade, few had seen the Sword Lord at night, unaware of his nightly agonizing pain, brought on by a lingering mdy.

    "Who dared to ring the Jade Sun Bell?" Madame Xiao demanded, her face a mask of annoyance.

    How could they disturb them during such a critical time?

    "Sword Lord!" From the crowd, a young man dressed in white stepped forward, his eyes shining with fervor. "It was I who rang the Jade Sun Bell!"

    "Why?" The Sword Lord, recognizing him, regained hisposure, his veins pulsating on the backs of his hands, which he held behind him.

    "For the great deed I''ve done for Sword Heaven!" Yun Xiao proimed passionately, ensuring everyone heard.

    "A great deed?" The Sword Lord raised an eyebrow in surprise.

    Faces like Second Uncle Lin, Xiao Yu, Ancestor Ning, Murong Li, and others exchanged puzzled looks, their brows furrowing in suspicion.

    Everyone''s eyes were drawn to Yun Xiao as he announced, "Gather round and take a gander!"

    With a dramatic flourish, he stepped into the shadows and pulled out a bloodstained bundle, holding it high for all to see.

    "What''s in there?" Sword Lord''s heart skipped a beat.

    "The biggest, most fantastic surprise!" Yun Xiao dered, hisughter ringing out. Without further ado, he unfurled the bundle for all to witness.

    Five heads rolled out! One of the younger ck-haired heads even came to rest at the feet of the Sword Lord and his wife, Xiao Yu.

    "Xiao Yuan?!" The eyes of both Sword Lord and Madame Xiao bulged in shock.

    Xiao Yuan! The leader of the Ten Great Elders of the Forbidden Tower! In his younger days, he had been a rival of the Sword Lord and had once wooed Xiao Yu... And now, his severed heady at their feet.

    The couple gasped, their breaths sharp with disbelief.

    As they looked up, four more heads came into view¡ªDuanmu Yao, Chen Xiao, Yan Guo...

    Recognizing the faces of these five, every individual atop the tower felt chills run down their spine, their scalps tingling with unease.

    "HAHAHA!" Amid the palpable silence, the young man''s boisterousughter seemed almost jarring. "Yes! You got it! I slew five of the Great Elders of the Forbidden Tower, took their heads, and annihted every soul in the Duanmu Manor!"

    Yun Xiao turned to address the crowd with a mischievous grin, "My fellow Sword Heaven kin, surprised? Or perhaps... shocked?"

    In a unified motion, almost ten thousand Sword Cultivators looked up, their faces nk as they beheld the exuberant young man in white.

    "What''s trulyughable," Yun Xiao continued with a scoff, "is that these five thought they could ambush me. I drew my sword, embodying the pride and spirit of Sword Heaven, and with a swing for each, sent them howling into the abyss!"

    "Everyone!" Yun Xiao announced, head tilted quizzically. "Aren''t you going to say something? Speak up! I get it. We of Sword Heaven have been oppressed by the Great Elders of Forbidden Tower for so long. Now that we can finally exact our revenge, you''re all so overwhelmed with excitement you''re speechless?"

    Silence hung heavily over Sword Heaven and the Jade Sun Tower.

    The figures above wore stiff expressions; those below exchanged anxious nces.

    "Sword Lord!" Yun Xiao suddenly shouted, approaching the white-haired leader with fervor in his eyes. "On the day my Sword Soul was measured, you dered publicly your ambition¡ªto be the foremost of Sea of Swords! That promation resonated deeply with me. You went against the majority to protect me, and in that moment of gratitude, I swore to myself that I would help the Sword Lord achieve this grand goal."

    The Sword Lord said nothing, his face unreadable.

    "That day, when Forbidden Tower issued a death decree on me, you shielded me from certain death," Yun Xiao continued, passion zing in his eyes. "To me, you''re more than a mentor. You''re like a father."

    The Sword Lord''s silence continued.

    "You enjoy drama, don''t you?" Yun Xiao smirked inwardly. "Fine! Let''s y it out."

    He took a deep breath, his hands clenched. "This morning, I had a disagreement with Lin Chen. Although it was an idental death, my guilt weighs heavily on me. The pain of Lin Chen''s death feels like being scorched by fierce mes. I can''t forgive myself. I feel I''ve betrayed Sword Heaven''s trust in me. Moreover, I''ve heard that Ye Guying will soon be an invincible force. My presence here is like pushing my benefactors to the edge of a precipice. Hence, tonight, to repay my debts, I decided to make this daring move."

    With that, Yun Xiao abruptly picked up the five severed heads and walked to the railing of Jade Sun Tower, ensuring that every Sword Cultivator had a clear view.

    A fierce determination emanated from him. Once the mortal Emperor of a nation, he was an adept maniptor of public sentiment.

    Waving the heads vigorously, Yun Xiao roared for all to hear, "Why has the Forbidden Tower always been powerful? Because they have many Sovereign Dragon Realm Great Elders! Now, having taken out five of their Great Elders, I''ve effectively crippled their tower''s might. From this moment on, we, the Sword Cultivators of Sword Heaven, outnumber these curs of Forbidden Tower ten to one! We even have as many powerful fighters as they do! So, I ask all of you. Who now truly stands as the number one in Sea of Swords?"

    The murmurs rose like the hum of a hive, filling the air with electricity.

    As Yun Xiao''s words settled, the faces of countless Sword Cultivators zed over, lost in thought, before they began whispering among themselves.

    "With the fall of five Sovereign Dragon Realm Great Elders, our power seems almost matched."

    "Considering our numbers are tenfold, it feels like we might have the edge over the Forbidden Tower."

    "Those from the Forbidden Tower, always looking down their noses at us... so arrogant..."

    As the buzz of discussion swelled, Yun Xiao suddenly turned, his fingers curled around the hair of those five severed heads. He addressed the top brass of Sword Heaven¡ªthe Sword Lord, Madame Xiao, Second Uncle Lin, Murong Li, and Ancestor Ning, eximing with infectious excitement, "From now on, within the Sea of Swords, there''s only one power to reckon with¡ªus, Sword Heaven!"

    Faces turned to look at Yun Xiao''s grim trophy, each one a tableau of shock and awe.

    "Sword Lord, we''ve gathered. Give themand," Yun Xiao urged, anticipation glinting in his eyes.

    "Themand for what?" The Sword Lord questioned.

    "Why, a call to battle, of course! After our move, the Forbidden Tower will undoubtedly rally. They wille for us tonight. War is inevitable," Yun Xiao said, his eyes shing with the promise of battle.

    "To war..." The voices of Second Uncle Lin and Murong Li wavered with trepidation.

    "Yes, to war! By now, surely no one''s still clinging to blind hope? With these Great Elders'' heads taken by us, do you really think they''ll let it slide?" Yun Xiao said seriously.

    Second Uncle Lin and Murong Li exchanged nces, a clear retort hovering on their lips. You''re the one who took those heads! What do you mean, <i>taken by us</i>?

    Yun Xiao continued, drawing a deep breath. "More crucially, the day after tomorrow, Ye Guying will emerge. To be blunt, I''m no match for him. If the war begins then, we''re doomed. Tonight is our final chance! Even if the Forbidden Tower doesn''t strike, we need to make our move. It''s ourst day to bring down the Forbidden Tower!"

    "First, we take out the Tower Lord Xiao Changtian. Then, we forcefully drag out the secluded Ye Guying and end him! Destroy his Tower Heart legacy! From that moment on, the Sea of Swords will be ours for the taking!"

    Having said that, Yun Xiao turned and dumped the five heads before the Sword Lord, voicing his rallying cry, "Sword Lord, let me assist you in achieving your dream of reigning over the Sea of Swords tonight! We Sword Cultivators shouldn''t hesitate to engage in battle!"

    The Sword Lord''s eyes darted between the heads and Yun Xiao, his lips parted, but before a single word could escape, an urgent voice pierced through the mor.

    "Sword Lord, over a thousand Sword Cultivators from the Forbidden Tower are approaching!"

    "The Tower Lord Xiao Changtian... he''s here!"

 Chapter 109 - If You Want a War, Thats What Ill Give You!

    <h4>Chapter 109 - If You Want a War, That''s What I''ll Give You!</h4>

    The Sea of Swords was shaken to its core!

    "Word has it that the Young Sword Lord of Sword Heaven slew five Great Elders of the Forbidden Tower, wiping out the entire Duanmu Family!"

    "Not a soul has ever dared toy a hand on even one Great Elder since the Forbidden Tower imed dominance!"

    "What''sing next?"

    "I''ve received intel. The entire Forbidden Tower is incensed. Their entire sword force has rallied and is on its way to Sword Heaven!"

    "An internal war is brewing in the Sea of Swords!"

    Within moments, swarms of Sword Cultivators from various powers and noble families set out for Sword Heaven. To watch the spectacle! To witness history! And perhaps to pick up a straggler or two.

    The news swept over the floating sword city like a tempest, setting the city aze with anticipation.

    Outside Sword Heaven, tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators poured out, forming a defensive line. Some were solemn; others had eyes filled with confusion.

    <i>HUM! </i>Suddenly, a thousand sharp swords tore through the dark clouds, falling like meteors andnding right before Sword Heaven!

    A tremendous killing intent swept towards them!

    Emerging from this onught were a thousand figures in ck and red robes from the Forbidden Tower, eyes cold with murderous rage.

    The Forbidden Tower, due to its practice of inducting only the most talented Sword Cultivators, naturally developed an arrogant and domineering demeanor.

    In territories under the Forbidden Tower''s control, they were thew, operating without restraint. How could they tolerate someone killing five of their Sovereign Dragon Realm Great Elders, decimating their foundation?

    <i>HUM! </i>As theynded, the ground quaked. The vast army of Sword Heaven''s Cultivators instinctively took a step back.

    A chilling, furious, and overwhelming atmosphere enveloped the scene.

    The intimidating gaze of the thousand Forbidden Tower Sword Cultivators heavily pressed down on the tens of thousands from Sword Heaven.

    At the forefront stood the Tower Lord of the Forbidden Tower and the remaining five Sovereign Dragon Realm Great Elders.

    The Tower Lord of the Forbidden Tower, draped in ck robes and shrouded in a dark mist, radiated a terrifying presence.

    "Tower Lord, shall we obliterate Sword Heaven, or shall we demand they hand over Yun Xiao?" A delicate woman in ck robes coldly inquired.

    She was known as Xiao Qiang, a Great Elder from a different branch of the Xiao Family. Moreover, she was the sister of Xiao Yuan. Their family boasted two elders, making their influence in the Sea of Swords significant.

    "Patience," the Tower Lord responded coolly.

    In that moment, from the crowd of Sword Heaven, Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng and Madame Xiao stepped forward, their expressions solemn. "Tower Lord Xiao," Lin Qingfeng addressed, "Might we step aside for a word?"

    "Step aside?" Xiao Qiang scoffed with augh.

    "Granted," the Tower Lord surprisingly agreed on the spot.

    Xiao Qiang paused, her eyes flicking with a hint of irritation, but before she could utter another word, the Tower Lord turned to the irate members of the Forbidden Tower. "Everyone, calm down! The Sword Lord and I will have a private chat. Regardless of the oue, you will have a resolution today."

    With the Tower Lord''s assurance, the enraged crowd reluctantly restrained themselves.

    "Please, Tower Lord," Lin Qingfeng motioned.

    Together, Lin Qingfeng and Madame Xiao escorted the Tower Lord to the Jade Sun Tower. Outside, the thousands from the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven stood face-to-face, a tension filling the air.

    "Lil Feng!" At the top of the Jade Sun Tower, the Tower Lord suddenly spun around, his eyes ring fiercely. "Five Great Elders! How do you exin that?!"

    "Big Brother!" Xiao Yu rushed forward, her eyes brimming with tears. "Calm down, hear us out!"

    Lin Qingfeng took a deep breath. "The thing is, Yun Xiao is a lunatic. Repaying my kindness and facing pressure from Ye Guying, he took matters into his own hands."

    He looked earnestly at the Tower Lord. "Brother, after all these years, you know who I am. If I ever harbored intentions against the Forbidden Tower, may heaven and earth strike me down."

    "It wasn¡¯t our idea!" Xiao Yu pleaded, her voiceced with desperation.

    The Tower Lord sighed deeply. "I trust you. But what''s the use? The Forbidden Tower isn''t just mine. They''re humiliated! How am I to cate them now?"

    He locked eyes with Lin Qingfeng, gritting his teeth. "Tonight, I must take Yun Xiao to the Forbidden Tower for justice. It''s the only way to appease the masses."

    "Big Brother, just wait one more day!" Xiao Yu begged. "By this time tomorrow, we can extract the sword bone!"

    The Tower Lord fell silent.

    <i>THUD! </i>Madam Xiao suddenly knelt before him, tears streaming down. "Please, help us once more. Without the sword bone transnt, he won''t live long. You''ve seen what he''s been through these past ten years! I¡¯ve lost my son. If you make me a widow, how am I supposed to live? I''d rather be dead!"

    She bowed her head repeatedly against the floor, crying out, "Give him a chance! You''re the Tower Lord. You can hold them off for a day. Just find a reason!"

    "It''s not about finding a reason," the Tower Lord murmured. After a moment of reflection, he sharply looked up. "Lil Feng, is there a chance you''ve been exposed?"

    "Exposed?" Lin Qingfeng frowned. "I don¡¯t think so. The Heart Eroding Bone poison is from the Heavenly Realm, there''s no record of it in the lower realms."

    "He killed your son and genuinely feels remorse? He genuinely wants to fight for you?" The Tower Lord had heard of the evening¡¯s details from Xiao Yu. With a sudden m on the table, he dered, "I''d bet there''s a ny-nine percent chance you''ve been exposed! He¡¯s ying you!"

    "How could it be?" Xiao Yu shook her head in disbelief. "He''s only sixteen, a mere peasant from the backwoods of Azure Spirit! How would he have such discernment? Besides, Brother Feng has been nothing but thorough with him. Not a single w from beginning to end."

    "You two are so desperate for his sword bone that it''s clouding your judgment!" the Tower Lord snapped.

    "Brother Tian..." the Sword Lord took a deep breath, "You said there''s a ny-nine percent chance, but what about that remaining one percent?"

    "You''re willing to risk it all on that one percent?" The Tower Lord red at him.

    "If you were in my shoes, tormented for a decade, you''d bet on even a one-in-ten-thousand chance! Only a Sword Soul of Star Grade or higher can undergo the bone exchange! Tell me, in the limited time I have left, where will I find another Yun Xiao?" the Sword Lord''s voice trembled.

    The Tower Lord fell silent.

    "Brother! Even if he''s found out, so what? It''s just one day! Maybe he only knows we intend to harm him, but not about the bone exchange. Heck, maybe he''s fully aware and still wouldn''t dare to destroy his sword and end it all! So, please... wait just one more day! From now on, we won''t let him step foot out of Sword Heaven," Xiao Yu pleaded.

    All this drama, all to prevent Yun Xiao from destroying his sword before the sword bone could be extracted. That was also a high stakes gamble, but... Lin Qingfeng, the Sword Lord, wasn''t willing to risk even the slightest mistake.

    "Brother Tian, I''m only forty, yet my hair has turned white. I''ve even wagered my own son in this gamble. I can''t lose this time!" Finally, with a soft thud, the Sword Lord too, knelt.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside Sword Heaven, tension ran high. Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven. The Sword Cultivators from both sides stood opposite each other, like oil and water.

    The cultivators from the Forbidden Tower red fiercely, eyes full of challenge. They steadily advanced, shrinking the space avable for the Sword Heaven cultivators, backing them into a corner.

    "Where is Yun Xiao?" Xiao Qiang, seeing no response from the Jade Sun Tower for what seemed like an eternity, felt her anger bubble up. She stepped forward, the memory of her decapitated brother, Xiao Yuan, screaming in her mind.

    "Barbecuing over here! Fancy a bite, Great Elder Xiao?" A nonchnt chuckle echoed from the crowd of Sword Heaven.

    The scent of something burning wafted over.

    The Sword Heaven crowd parted in two, revealing a path.

    What Xiao Qiang and the other Forbidden Tower cultivators saw made their eyes nearly pop out of their sockets. A young man in white robes had lined up five heads, roasting them over an open me. And right there, in the center, was Xiao Qiang''s younger brother, Xiao Yuan!

    "Ah!"

    "You audacious brat!"

    Such a brazen provocation!

    The thousand-strong from the Forbidden Tower were already boiling with rage, forcibly suppressed by their Tower Lord. But now, as their leader negotiated, Yun Xiao had stomped on their pride and dignity, and ground it into the dirt.

    "You''re asking for death!" Xiao Qiang''s eyes zed red.

    Who could remain sane seeing their sibling roasted like that?

    "Kill him!!" With a horrifying shriek and a twisted face, she drew her Sword Soul and lunged at Yun Xiao. Behind her, countless Sword Cultivators from the Forbidden Tower, driven mad by anger, drew their des.

    "Youe to Sword Heaven''s doorstep and cry murder? Think we of Sword Heaven are pushovers?" Yun Xiao stood up, charging at Xiao Qiang with ferocity. "You want war? Sword Heaven will give you war!"

    Their two forms collided with explosive force, a storm of energy erupting between the two factions.

    A sh of cold light darted across Yun Xiao''s eyes. Without a word, he summoned the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which boasted two gleaming Sword Rings.

    <i>Sun Moon Divine Light, Rainbow Through the Sun!</i>

    Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword burst forth, creating a tempest of water and fire. Like a brilliantet piercing the night sky, it dashed towards Xiao Qiang in a mere blink.

    "Five-thousand-year old Sword Rings!" Xiao Qiang''s face paled. She swung her de in desperation.

    The tragic end of Duanmu Yao was relived in that fleeting moment as the Sword Cultivators shed.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Her Sword Soul shattered against the might of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which swiftly reached her neck, severing her head from her body.

    Xiao Qiang met her end between the two warring factions.

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao, with cold calction, held Xiao Qiang''s head in one hand and stepped on her corpse with his foot. Facing the thousand from the Forbidden Tower, he spat disdainfully. "The Forbidden Tower? The so-called fearless? You''re just a pack of dogs, begging on your knees after I kill you! I''ve taken out another of your Great Elders. Dare to challenge me now?" With that, Yun Xiaoughed coldly.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The Sword Cultivators of the Forbidden Tower erupted in fury.

    What happened to peace talks with the Tower Lord?

    When someone boldly pped them across the face, all talk was forgotten.

    "Kill him!"

    "Destroy Sword Heaven!"

    The crazed will of a mob is like a potent poison, consuming reason in the blink of an eye. When everyone around you drew their sword, not a soul could resist joining the frenzy.

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>A shimmering downpour of over a thousand Flying Swords pierced the night, like a rainstorm of steel, hurtling towards Yun Xiao alone.

    "A thousand against one? You think Sword Heaven is undefended?"

    With a ferocious roar, Yun Xiao suddenly turned, charging straight into the thick of the Sword Heaven crowd.

    "Strike!"

    The barrage of Flying Swords relentlessly pursued him. An arrow drawn had to be let loose!

    "You Forbidden Tower folks push things too far!" Yun Xiao, swift as a ghostly shadow, darted into the dense throng in a sh.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>In the ensuing chaos, the Forbidden Tower''s swords couldn''t be aimed true. With Yun Xiao''s deft dodges, at least a hundred Sword Heaven''s people were pierced and fell where they stood.

    Blood flowed like rivers at the gates of Sword Heaven.

    Things had taken a dire turn...

 Chapter 110 - Beneath the Heavens and Earth, Sword Heaven Reigns Supreme!

    <h4>Chapter 110 - Beneath the Heavens and Earth, Sword Heaven Reigns Supreme!</h4>

    Yun Xiao turned around, his eyes zing with fury. His anger was monumental. With his Heaven Burial Sword Soul held high, he roared at the Sword Cultivators from the Forbidden Tower, "How dare you ughter hundreds of my Sword Heaven brethren?!"

    The Sword Heaven assembly gasped. The sight of hundreds of their own dead was heart-wrenching.

    "What does it matter if we killed a few nobodies?" A Sword Cultivator from the Forbidden Tower retorted, his own anger rivaling Yun Xiao''s. Instead of retreating, he charged, "Tonight, unless you all are trampled underfoot, you won''t recognize who truly rules the Sea of Swords!"

    Those words boomed like thunder, shaking every Sword Heaven disciple to their core.

    Yun Xiao stepped forward, pointing defiantly at the Forbidden Tower, rallying his fellows, "We Sword Cultivators are born free. Can we forever bow to others, endure their trampling, suffer their insults? Today, we tten the Forbidden Tower, and for our valiant fallen, we dare to challenge the heavens! Attack!"

    Just as he finished, the furious Forbidden Tower Sword Cultivator lunged like a wild tiger into the ranks of Sword Heaven, striking down all in his path.

    The entire assembly of Sword Heaven erupted.

    "Stop, halt the fight!" One of the Ancestors of Sword Heaven, Murong Li, screamed, his face contorted in anguish. But amid the chaos, his pleas went unheeded.

    "Yun Xiao!" Murong Li stormed up to him, eyes aze, "Did you incite this conflict on purpose? What''s your agenda?"

    "What conflict? I''m just giving our Sword Lord a leg up, pushing Sword Heaven to be number one in the Sea of Swords!" Yun Xiao retorted with a spark in his eye.

    Murong Li''s eyes bulged as they fixed on Yun Xiao''s sword, spotting the two Sword Rings. "Those are Lin Chen''s Sword Rings! How did they end up on your sword?" he thundered.

    "No need for theatrics! Obviously, they were bestowed upon me by the Sword Lord!" With the entire crowd as witness, Yun Xiao brandished the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which held both the Thousands Waters Lure Sword Ring and the Ghostly Inferno Sword Ring. With fiery determination, he proimed, "I owe a debt to Lin Chen! The Sword Lord wants me to fulfill Lin Chen''s legacy with these Sword Rings and topple the Forbidden Tower!"

    "The Sword Lord gave him the five-thousand-year-old Sword Rings!"

    "I told you guys, Yun Xiao is the Sword Lord''s very own son!"

    "He must''ve been conceived with Ning Yan!"

    Everyone knew Lin Chen was sired by Xiao Yu, who hailed from the Forbidden Tower, making him a power to be reckoned with in Sword Heaven. Given that Yun Xiao had also wiped out potential allies like Holy Son Chu and Xiao Xing''er, the crowd was struck with realization¡ªthe Sword Lord was ying the long game.

    "What is the Sword Lord diverting the Tower Lord''s attention for?"

    Seeing the Forbidden Tower Sword Cultivators wreak havoc, killing indiscriminately and targeting Yun Xiao, the tens of thousands from Sword Heaven, their vision clouded with rage, couldn''t take it any longer, especially after spotting those two Sword Rings on Yun Xiao''s sword.

    "Attack!"

    "Show them the might of Sword Heaven!"

    "We''re in the tens of thousands; what''s there to fear?"

    "Fight! Fight today! Kill their thousands! y the Tower Lord! Then storm the Forbidden Tower and drag out Ye Guying to face our collective wrath!"

    "From the heavens above to the earth below, only Sword Heaven stands supreme!"

    Yun Xiao surveyed the scene, and the killing had truly begun. Heughed. "Damn, this warms my heart!"

    However, from the Forbidden Tower''s thousand, at least three hundred Sword Cultivators had their eyes locked on him, directing their Flying Swords in a ferocious assault on his position.

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>Hundreds of Flying Swords rained down like a violent storm, leaving a trail of blood and bodies in their wake.

    "Kill Yun Xiao! Destroy Sword Heaven!"

    The hate-filled voices of the Forbidden Tower Sword Cultivators resonated like an ear-piercing sword song.

    "Heh." Yun Xiao retreated deep into the crowd of Sword Heaven supporters.

    There, in the midst of the crowd, he spotted a young girl in a goose-yellow skirt. It was Lin Lin! She looked dumbstruck, watching in disbelief as two factions that once treated each other like brothers were now engaged in a bloody battle.

    "Lin Lin, my love! get out of here!" Yun Xiao suddenly bellowed, charging towards her.

    "<i>My love</i>? What!?" Lin Lin thought she had misheard. Why would he call out to her like that, especially in front of such a vast crowd?

    The young man in white broke through the throng, getting closer and closer.

    "Yun Xiao..." Suddenly, Lin Lin caught a glimpse of his cold, icy stare. Fear prickled at her scalp, and she quickly tried to retreat. But it was toote.

    Yun Xiao, trailed by hundreds of Flying Swords, appeared right before her. "Run!" As his voice trailed off, a Forbidden Tower Flying Sword pierced through Lin Lin''s body.

    Blood sttered in the air!

    <i>THUD! </i>Lin Lin was thrown back,nding heavily on the ground, her face pale, her chest covered in blood.

    "Yun... Yun Xiao, why..." Her vision blurred, and she reached out with trembling hands, trying to grasp the young man before her.

    "If I weren''t strong enough, your family would''ve yed me to death long ago. So you ask why?" Yun Xiao scoffed, leaned over, and with a sharp twist, snapped her neck.

    "Y-you..." Lin Lin''s eyes widened in shock, forever frozen in fear as the light disappeared from her eyes.

    In the blink of an eye, Yun Xiao cradled her lifeless form, his eyes zing with fury. He let out a heart-wrenching roar toward the Forbidden Tower''s Sword Cultivators, "Dogs of the Forbidden Tower! You''ve in the one I cherished. Our enmity is now boundless!"

    A chill ran down the spines of countless Sword Heaven Sword Cultivators.

    Their faces drained of color. They nced to see the once vibrant young woman now limp in Yun Xiao''s embrace, a flower wilted too soon.

    "The daughter of the Sword Lord... in by those from the Forbidden Tower!"

    "They''re too audacious! Too brazen! Absolutely domineering!"

    Initially, some from Sword Heaven hesitated to draw their swords. But witnessing this, their suppressed anger surged, filling their minds with rage.

    "Why are you all just standing there? Fight!"

    "Do we just stand here and await our doom?"

    With swords drawn and emotions ring, who could remain impartial?

    The death of the young woman galvanized every Sword Heaven Sword Cultivator into the fray, quickly outnumbering their foes ten to one.

    They soon realized that the Forbidden Tower''s numbers weren''t as vast and in this chaotic melee, they weren''t invincible.

    Flying Swords were everywhere!

    Even the mightiest could be taken unaware, a sword unexpectedly piercing them from behind.

    "Tonight, we wipe the Forbidden Tower off the face of the Sea of Swords! Tomorrow, Sword Heaven shall reign supreme!" Leading the charge, Yun Xiao didn''t hold back. He carved a path through the crowd of Forbidden Towerbatants, each strike exacting revenge for the fallendy.

    Amid the screams and shes, the transformation from a boisterous gathering to a bloodbath took only moments. Yun Xiao''s swift actions turned this conflict between two once-brotherly forces into a horrific scene of carnage.

    "Time to leave!" Blue Star urged Yun Xiao.

    Without another word, Yun Xiao knew. The Sword Lord and Tower Lord must''ve heard the outsidemotion.

    "Let''s call it a day." Surveying the devastation around him, bodies littered the ground from both the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven. The losses in such a short time were staggering. Tens of thousands of spectators were left speechless.

    Whizzing through the chaos, Yun Xiao deftly maneuvered into the throng. Suddenly, he spotted Ning Yan. She didn''t engage in the battle but stared at Yun Xiao, her eyes tinged with an added touch of fear.

    "I''d advise you to leave now, or your end will be grisly," Yun Xiao coldly dropped the warning.

    "Oh!" Ning Yan''s face paled, promptly reacting. She darted into the shadows, escaping the nightmare that unfolded.

    Yun Xiao skillfully maneuvered his Sovereign Sword just above the ground, darting away from the battlefield with a swift grace. With a flourish of his white sleeves, he disappeared into the shadows. Behind himy a gruesome scene¡ªbodies scattered everywhere, the ground saturated with blood.

    As the adage went, ten steps, one kill; traveling miles without leaving a trace. Once the deed was done, depart in silence, keeping both achievements and fame concealed.

    "Halt!" No sooner had Yun Xiao left the battlefield than two furious voices erupted from within Sword Heaven. In the blink of an eye, both the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord stepped out. The devastation they witnessed before them nearly took their breath away.

    "All Forbidden Tower Sword Cultivators, cease!" the Tower Lord roared, bringing a semnce of order to the chaos.

    "And Sword Heaven, halt as well!" The Sword Lord scanned the devastation below. Corpses from both sidesy scattered. An icy chill gripped his heart. They had merely engaged in a brief private discussion atop the Jade Sun Tower. How had everything escted so quickly?

    At theirmanding shouts, the blood-thirstybatants gradually simmered down.

    <i>HUM! </i>The Sword Lord, Tower Lord, and Madame Xiao swiftly moved to the center of the two factions. The sight of the dead almost tore their faces apart with anguish. Their hearts bled.

    "What happened?" The Tower Lord''s anger was palpable as he turned to his Forbidden Tower Sword Cultivators

    A middle-aged man in blue stepped forward, his voice quivering with rage. "Tower Lord! That brat from Sword Heaven provoked us first. He desecrated the heads of Xiao Yuan and the other four Great Elders. And then he killed Xiao Qiang, inciting this conflict. We couldn''t stand for it..."

    The faces of the Tower Lord, Sword Lord, and Madame Xiao darkened like a stormy sky.

    On Sword Heaven''s side, Ancestor Ning stepped forward, his voice filled with grief. "Sword Lord! It''s these Forbidden Tower folks. If they only targeted Yun Xiao, then so be it! But then took out their frustrations on others. They even..."

    "They even did what?" The Sword Lord''s heart raced, dreading the answer.

    "Those Forbidden Tower bastards even assassinated Lin Lin with a Flying Sword!" Ancestor Ning said with a tremor in his voice.

    "What?!" The revtion struck the Sword Lord and Madame Xiao like a sledgehammer. Their hearts filled with pain.

    The Tower Lord''s eyes narrowed, "Where''s Yun Xiao?"

    "He seems to have escaped amidst the chaos," a Great Elder from the Forbidden Tower named He Shujian replied.

    Meanwhile, when the Sword Lord and Madame Xiao discovered Lin Lin''s lifeless, fear-frozen body, they fell to their knees, their grief echoing in a heart-wrenching wail.

    First they lost a son! Now, a daughter!

    The crowd watched this tragic scene, a tingling sensation crawling up their scalps. They were unaware of the matter of the sword bone, so even now, they were oblivious that Yun Xiao was just toying with the Sword Lord.

    "Sword Lord! This isn''t our fault! It''s the Forbidden Tower! While you were negotiating, they struck us down ruthlessly! They killed your daughter!" Ning Que took a deep breath, his gaze fiery as he addressed the tower''s master, "We had the upper hand. Perhaps we should..."

    "Silence!" Madame Xiao barked, her eyes a zing red.

    Beside her, Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng cast a cold re at Ning Que, a murderous intent lurking in his eyes.

    Caught off guard, Ning Que stammered, "Sword Lord, you gifted those two five-thousand-year-old Sword Rings to Yun Xiao. You''ve always protected him. Wasn''t he fighting for you?"

    The recent battle had proven that Sword Heaven had be even stronger.

    "Exactly! This is our moment to strike down the Forbidden Tower! If Ye Guying emerges..." Ancestor Ning voiced anxiously.

    While father and son were considering pledging their allegiance to the Sword Lord and Yun Xiao, the mere mention of the five-thousand-year-old Sword Rings shattered the already wounded hearts of the Sword Lord and Madame Xiao.

    <i>THUD! </i>Both copsed, blood spilling from their mouths.

    "Huh?" Ancestor Ning and Ning Que were stunned. What on earth was happening?

    The five-thousand-year-old Sword Rings had been stolen by Yun Xiao from Lin Chen''s grave... What did that imply?

    The one percent chance the Sword Lord had gambled on was now gone!

    In that moment, the couple fully realized that ever since the murder of the three Sword Princelings in the Ancestral Sword Hall, they had been yed by Yun Xiao all along.

    This perfectly coincided with the time the Sword Lord gave Yun Xiao the Sword Heart Spring and the Heart Eroding Bone poison.

    "Reporting to the Tower Lord, we of the Forbidden Tower have suffered 391 deaths, 181 severely wounded, and the rest have minor injuries..."

    The Forbidden Tower''s casualty report was in. More than half were casualties!

    "Reporting to the Sword Lord, Sword Heaven has suffered 2,535 dead and 872 severely wounded..."

    Upon hearing this, the Sword Lord spat another mouthful of blood.

 Chapter 111 - The Deposed Emperor of a Certain Small Nation

    <h4>Chapter 111 - The Deposed Emperor of a Certain Small Nation</h4>

    Half an hourter, the Tower Lord of the Forbidden Tower and the Sword Lord of Sword Heaven jointly issued the first decree in the Sea of Swords!

    ¡¸<i>Rebel Yun Xiao recklessly ignited conflict between Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower, killing the innocent in cold blood! From this day forth, he is stripped of his title as the Young Sword Lord of Sword Heaven and dered an enemy of the entire Sea of Swords. The one who captures or kills him will be awarded 10,000,000 Spirit Stones. Anyone reporting his whereabouts will receive 1,000,000 Spirit Stones!</i>¡¹

    This decree sent shockwaves throughout the Sea of Swords.

    The initial conflict between the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven was already the talk of the town. Just when people were specting if the battles would continue, they were stunned by Yun Xiao''s punishment!

    "Yun Xiao killed six Great Elders of the Forbidden Tower. Of course the Forbidden Tower would be furious... but Sword Heaven holds the upper hand right now. Why would they throw Yun Xiao under the bus to appease the Forbidden Tower?"

    "I can''t figure it out! Could this be a strategic move by the Sword Lord?"

    "A strategic move for what? Ye Guying will be out soon! When that happens, do you think the Forbidden Tower will swallow their anger?"

    "I''m lost!"

    And they weren''t the only ones. Even those from Sword Heaven were stumped.

    Everyone knew the Sword Lord held deep affection for Yun Xiao. Why the sudden change of heart?

    Many felt the same way, their spirits ignited by Yun Xiao''s fiery resolve, ready to take on the Forbidden Tower and challenge the very heavens!

    Now, what was all this about?

    The entire Sea of Swords was abuzz, with countless theories and spections.

    Meanwhile, atop the Jade Sun Tower in Sword Heaven, it took the Sword Lord, the Tower Lord, and Madame Xiao a full half hour to finally regain theirposure.

    Below the Jade Sun Tower, the Sword Cultivators of both Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower, who had just been in fiercebat, were now coexisting in an uneasy truce. But those not privy to the details still eyed each other warily.

    "The matter of the sword bone must not be leaked." The Sword Lord sighed deeply. So, he couldn''t exin his actions to others. From the beginning, only the three of them knew, and it had to stay that way.

    "He yed you like a fiddle. Do you still have hope now?" The Tower Lord coldly questioned, hands behind his back.

    "The Sword Heart Spring is gone, but we still have the Heart Eroding Bone Poison. If we can capture him, we can risk using it! But the sess rate would be less than fifty percent," the Sword Lord replied gravely.

    Before, with thebination of the Sword Heart Spring and the Heart-Eating Bone Poison, there was a guaranteed sess rate of silently extracting the bone in three days.

    "At this point, we can only take the gamble," Madame Xiao uttered shakily.

    "We must capture him," the Sword Lord dered, eyes icy, filled with surging hatred.

    "My son, my daughter, the five-thousand-year-old Sword Rings... I have made immense sacrifices to Sword Heaven!" The Sword Lord gritted his teeth. Each revtion felt like a sword, one after the other, stabbing into his heart. His heart, it seemed, was now riddled with wounds.

    "I checked. Besides his connections with the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, the only other contact he had in the Sea of Swords was with the Spirit Treasure Walk," the Forbidden Tower Lord said with a shadowed gaze.

    "Do you think we can capture that Qian woman to force Yun Xiao out?" Madame Xiao spat bitterly.

    "That''s out of the question! Firstly, this woman has a significant background. Secondly, she possesses a Sword Heart which holds tremendous power!" the Sword Lord interjected quickly.

    "A Sword Heart from the Heavenly Realm?" Madame Xiao''s eyes shed with intrigue.

    "Yes." The Forbidden Tower Lord nodded, "However, I''ve already set up a perimeter around Spirit Treasure Walk. If Yun Xiao dares to approach, we''ll be alerted."

    "Why would he go to the Spirit Treasure Walk?" Madame Xiao furrowed her brows.

    "Because of the Sword Tempering Pill. Currently, in the Sea of Swords, only you, me, and Spirit Treasure Walk have ess to it," the Forbidden Tower Lord said with an icy stare. "I''ve just received word that his master, Zhao Jianxing''s Sword Soul, is already three-quarters shattered. Without the Sword Tempering Pill, he won''t survive long."

    "Then we should just go straight to the Spirit Treasure Walk andy in wait! We don''t need many people this time. Only the elite," Madame Xiao hissed.

    Last time, the abundance of their force led to the chaos that allowed Yun Xiao to escape.

    "Spirit Treasure Walk is one method, but I have another strategy." The Forbidden Tower Lord smirked.

    "Brother Tian, do tell," the Sword Lord urged.

    "I heard those backwater Sword Cultivators of Azure Spirit ventured into the thousand mortal nations to y demons. We can deploy some forces to capture some demons and unleash them there. If we''re lucky, perhaps we might snag a big fish. Yun Xiao''s rtionship with Azure Spirit''s people is said to be close. That''s his weakness!" the Tower Lord said with a sly smile.

    "Unleash demons into the mortal realm?" The Sword Lord frowned. "Wouldn''t that bring massive cmity to the mortals?"

    "So?" The Tower Lord looked at him. "Mortals live brief, inconsequential lives, bound from birth to death. Do their lives have any real significance?"

    Madame Xiao scowled and pped the Sword Lord on the shoulder. "Are you out of your mind? At this juncture, is it your life or the lives of thousands of mortals that matter more?"

    "To me, Lil Feng''s life matters the most!" The Tower Lord replied earnestly.

    The Sword Lord sighed deeply, finally nodding. "Sword Heaven can provide more people. I''ll send five hundred to aid your operations."

    "That''s more like it!" The Tower Lord sat next to him, resting his hand on the Sword Lord''s shoulder. "Why should we cultivators concern ourselves with mortal suffering? While mortals bathe in blood in the world below, immortals seek longevity in the mountains. After all, everyone has their fate, riches and prosperity are predestined, and frankly, it''s none of my business!"

    With that, he chuckled and continued, "From the moment we established the Grand Wastnd Pact, humans and demons in the Sword Realm ceased their wars. By that measure, our contributions have been monumental. So what if a few mortal lives are lost? Who would dare to criticize us?

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the mortal realm stood a city. With its red bricks and green tiles, the aging walls contrasted against its bustling streets, brimming with life.

    A woman in a ck gown and a wide-brimmed hat strolled through the streets. Tall and gracefully slender, she exuded an exceptional aura. Even in her simple attire, she drew many admiring gazes.

    Entering a teahouse, she ordered a pot of clear tea and took a seat by a street-facing window, watching the world go by.

    "Junior Brother Yun mentioned that while riding a sword in the mortal world, I shouldn''t drink alcohol..." She had a longing for a drink, but remembering the reminder from the young man in white robes, a smile crept onto her face. Taking a sip from her tea, her crimson lips delicately met the cup''s rim, encapsting a taste of life.

    As she surveyed the busy streets, she saw the townsfolk''s beaming faces, the carefreeughter of children ying, and the merchants and soldiers, each engrossed in their own lives.

    Such was the mortal world.

    "Excuse me," she inquired gently, addressing the idle innkeeper, "Is this ce the Cloud Nation or Jiang Nation?"

    The innkeeper, an elderly man with white hair, responded with a kind smile, "It''s hard to say."

    "Why is that?" Her curiosity was piqued.

    There weren''t many patrons in the teahouse, so the shopkeeper, having a free moment, sighed, "It used to be Cloud Nation. The Yun Family had ruled for five hundred years. Everything was peaceful until a few months ago..."

    "Oh?" She sipped her tea, waiting for him to continue.

    "That sixteen-year-old prince, Yun Xiao, made the grave mistake of harboring demons, causing the death of tens of thousands. Thankfully, an Immortal by the name of Ye happened to pass by. He vanquished the naive ruler and took away the prime minister''s daughter, who was supposed to be the Empress. They left to cultivate immortality!" The innkeeper shook his head with a heavy sigh, a hint of regret in his eyes.

    "And the prime minister''s daughter, what was her name?" She arched her brows.

    Looking around to ensure they were alone, the innkeeper whispered into her ear, "Her name is Jiang Yue. But don''t utter it carelessly. Nowadays, she''s ranked among the Immortals, a celestial being in the heavenly pce."

    "Really? She''s achieved such a status?" The woman in the ck gown suppressed a chuckle, her heart releasing a quiet sigh.

    Yun Xiao had once mentioned his homnd, Cloud Nation.

    The young monarch, Jiang Yue, and that immortal with the surname Ye...

    With these clues, everything began to make sense.

    She continued to inquire about the tale of the day Immortal Ye descended, and after listening, her eyes glistened with unshed tears.

    "Do you believe he''s a bad person?" she softly asked the innkeeper, the hem of her ck gown brushing the floor.

    "Ah, it''s hard to say! Thatd became an Emperor at twelve and never once let his people down. But the judgment came from the Immortals above. They have divine sight. Could they be wrong?" The innkeeper sighed.

    "Do Immortals never make mistakes?" The grip on her tea cup tightened. "What if it wasn''t an Immortal, but just a slightly more powerful cultivator?"

    "Hush! Be careful with your words!" the innkeeper eximed, rmed. "Our ancestors always said, those who can ride the sword and fly, they''re all Immortals, descending to banish demons!"

    "I see..." She observed the innkeeper, then turned her gaze to the bustling street outside, remaining silent.

    "Youngdy, earlier you asked if this ce is Jiang Nation or Cloud Nation. You''re not from around here?" The innkeeper inquired.

    "No," she shook her head lightly, "So, which is it?"

    "Let''s say Cloud Nation," the innkeeper replied after a moment''s hesitation.

    "Why?"

    The innkeeper scratched his head, chuckling awkwardly, "Well, after Jiang Yue ascended to immortality, the dynasty changed. The entire Jiang Family vanished overnight. With the Jiang Family gone, how could there be a Jiang Nation? Now, it''s governed by the once loyal general of the Yun Family, General Yun Hai. Life''s been peaceful."

    "I see." She smiled faintly, then suddenly seemed to recall something. "Innkeeper, have you heard about a Sword Immortal from the Northern Wastnds who single-handedly vanquished a hundred thousand demons?"

    "Of course! The tale''s famous!" The innkeeper''s eyes sparkled with excitement.

    "Do you know the Sword Immortal''s name?" she pressed.

    "Indeed!" The innkeeper chuckled, "Coincidentally, he shares the same name as our young and misguided monarch."

    "How amusing," she replied, sipping her tea. "I''d love to hear more about this young monarch. Would that be alright?"

    "Of course! I have plenty of free time. Ask away!" The innkeeper grinned.

    "How many concubines did he have when he was the monarch?" she probed.

    The innkeeper blinked, not expecting such a gossipy question. "He was still a child and had no concubines, just a group of pce maidens to attend to him."

    Thedy tensed, "How many?"

    "With imperial blood, at least a hundred beautiful maidens, I''d guess?" the innkeeper said with a hint of envy.

    Thedy paused and muttered under her breath, "So young, yet so frivolous."

    Their conversation meandered through various tales of the young monarch.

    Gazing out of the window, she finally asked, "So before Immortal Ye''s arrival, he was a noble, brave boy, dedicated to his country and people, right?"

    "Absolutely," the innkeeper sighed. "Who knew he would lose his way?"

    "He didn''t," she retorted with a fiery intensity. "It''s this world that has lost its way."

    The innkeeper remained silent.

    "He''lle back home," she stated.

    "Who?" The innkeeper was puzzled.

    "The young misguided monarch."

    "Hmm." The innkeeper shook his head with a bitter smile. "Perhaps in his next life."

    As dusk settled, it was the hour when demons roamed.

    Thedy in the ck gown seemed about to say something else when suddenly, a woman in yellow robes rushed in, eximing, "Senior Sister Zhao! A five-hundred-year-old blood demon has been spotted in the north. Hurry!"

    "A five-hundred-year-old blood demon? How can such a powerful demon still exist?" Thedy''s eyebrows shot up.

    "Quick, many vigers have already perished," the woman in yellow robes cried, her eyes reddened.

    With a buzzing sound, thedy in the ck gown darted out of the window, mounted her sword, and transformed into a streak of ck, shooting towards the north.

    "An Immortal!" the innkeeper eximed, copsing to the ground in awe.

    As the streak of sword light passed, the people knelt in reverence.

 Chapter 112 - Will of Divine Desolation

    <h4>Chapter 112 - Will of Divine Destion</h4>

    In the Grand Wastnd, the dark and ominous Yin Mountains stretched endlessly, as chilling winds sliced through them. Atop one of these grim mountains littered with bones stood a figure!

    With waist-length hair as white as snow, this individual possessed strikingly delicate features, an enigmatic face, and thin, blood-red lips. For a moment, it was hard to determine their gender.

    They wore a flowing robe that swirled around them, their bare feet stepping lightly on the skulls beneath. Their eerie and captivating eyes fixated on the lonely moon above. Behind them, three snow-white fox tails fluttered.

    "Moon Fairy!" An unexpectedly warm, soft voice broke the eerie silence.

    The silver-haired figure turned, spotting a misty white fog rising from the base of the mountain. Within moments, the fog solidified, revealing a young woman. Her skin was pale as fresh snow, her body slender and graceful. Her face held a yful allure, her waist was as flexible as a serpent''s, truly a beauty to behold.

    "Ling''er." Moon Fairy''s lips twitched upwards, his gaze intensifying, "What''s the news?"

    Pouting in a charming fashion, Ling''er replied, "My father watches too closely. I failed!"

    "Failed? Oh." Moon Fairy''s expression cooled, and he began to turn away.

    "Wait!" Ling''er reached out, grabbing his arm. With a mischievous giggle, she said, "Just pulling your leg! I got it."

    "Show me." Moon Fairy cast a fleeting nce at her, secretly thinking, <i>Nicenterns, extra points for that slender waist...</i>

    Sheplied, producing a ck jade box from her possession. Snake patterns writhed on the box''s surface, creating an eerie appearance. A zing aura emanated from within, pushing away the cold gloom and bringing heat to the haunted mountain.

    Both Moon Fairy and Ling''er soon broke into a gentle sweat. The young woman''s face flushed, giving her a uniquely charming appearance.

    "I had to sneak this out." Ling''er carefully ced the jade box in his hand. "Once you''re done, we need to return it. If my father finds out, he''ll kill me!"

    "And giving it to me outright wasn''t an option?" Moon Fairy mused.

    "That''s out of the question! It''s my father''s most treasured possession." Ling''er pouted.

    "I''ll head back to my cave to cultivate then," Moon Fairy said.

    "I''ll stand guard at the entrance for you." Ling''er nodded enthusiastically.

    "Good girl." Moon Fairy pinched her cheek affectionately, "If my cultivation seeds, I''ll reward youter, my little danger noodle."

    "Hey!" Ling''er shot him a sultry nce, "How can you call me a noodle?"

    Moon Fairy chuckled, his face revealing a yful smirk. Without another word, he disappeared into a nearby cave in the mountain.

    Once inside, Moon Fairy eagerly ced the jade box on a boulder.

    "Blue Star! Hurry, we''ve got the Deste Essence!" He shouted into the void, looking every bit the madman.

    Though no one replied, he appeared to be deep in listening. Soon, a smile of relief formed on his lips. "Good, I''ve got it. Just the initial stage, should be easy enough." He then sat cross-legged, his long silvery hair cascading down, and his enchanting eyes fixed on the jade box before him.

    "This is the Star grade Deste Essence, known as the Bone Phosphor me. It''s the only one in the entire Sword Realm and has been passed down through several generations of Demon Lords..."

    It was an absolute treasure!

    "Demons refine their flesh with the hope of reaching the ultimate state, the Immortal Demon. And this Deste Essence birthed by the Grand Wastnd are crucial for refining the body. Without this Star grade Bone Phosphor me, the Grand Wastnd wouldn''t have produced so many age-old Demon Lords!" Moon Fairy chuckled, his cold eyes gleaming. "Too bad, from today onward, it''ll be gone."

    Taking a deep breath, Moon Fairy opened the jade box.

    <i>HUM! </i>Inside, a zing white me burned fiercely, illuminating the dim cave like daylight and causing the temperature to soar. The moss on the walls withered and charred instantly, transforming the cave into a furnace.

    "Worthy of a Star grade Deste Essence!"

    Blue Star had mentioned that this was a unique variant of spiritual energy, possessing myriad properties like wind, fire, water, earth, and thunder. It filled the entire realm. Cultivators use it to craft magical tools or aid in pill refinement, while demons used it directly to forge their physical bodies...

    "All Deste Essence share onemon characteristic, a tremendous amount of stored energy. For instance, sessive Demon Lords used this Bone Phosphor me to refine their bodies by immersing themselves in it, letting the me scorch their flesh, refining themselves as if they were the main ingredient of a pill." Moon Fairy cast a nce outside the cave.

    Ling''er, the girl outside, was the beloved daughter of the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord. He''d recently been using the Bone Phosphor me to refine her body. How else could she have sneaked it out for him?

    Moon Fairy''s icy eyes settled back on the Bone Phosphor me. His gaze became distant and ethereal, murmuring, "Among the Six Ancestral Gods, there''s an ancient Demon God named Divine Destion."

    Both Blue Star and Red Moon were the soul beasts of the ancient bronze coffin, brothers to the Creator Immortal, not mere pets. However, this Divine Destion Demon God was a gatekeeper raised by the Creator Immortal...

    All this was shared by Blue Star moments ago.

    "The Creator Immortal founded the path for demons to ascend, gifting this Demon God with the Will of Divine Destion. But like the Primordial Void Technique, what diverged to create thousands of demon paths was merely the Lesser Divine Destion. The one recorded within the soul beast is the Greater Divine Destion."

    Will of Divine Destion! Primordial Void Technique! The former for fleshly refinement, thetter for qi cultivation!

    Whether for demon cultivators or human cultivators, both paths led to the heavens. The origin of all these paths was none other than the Creator Immortal!

    "Using the Will of Divine Destion with the power of the Star grade Deste Essence can refine the Bone Phosphor me directly into one''s flesh, enhancing one''s power exponentially!" This technique was the genesis of all demon arts. And yet, the Bone Phosphor me was nothing more than a mundane me.

    "Blue Star, with this body double of mine practicing the Will of Divine Destion to its utmost, can it be integrated back into my main self?" Moon Fairy seemed to be musing to himself.

    After a moment, he chuckled, saying, "Ah, I see! So, whatever my double cultivates can be instantly merged back into my true form, bolstering my strength and giving me the Divine Destion Physique? So, it''s like multitasking¡ªrunning two versions of me, the big and the small, training them simultaneously.

    "It''s perhaps more fitting for me to cultivate this using a demon form. Otherwise, if folks mistake my true self for a demon, it''d be quite the blunder!" If need be, he could merge or separate his two selves at any time.

    "Damn, that''s awesome! The genius of the Creator Immortal never fails to amaze me!

    "Well, let''s get started then!" Moon Fairy''s eyes locked onto the Bone Phosphor me.

    "While the Primordial Void Techniquees with the Heavenly Dao Sarira, allowing for instant elevation, this Will of Divine Destion requires the absorption of Deste Essence and promises intense agony." Moon Fairy furrowed his brows for a moment but soon rxed. "It''s just a body double. If it gets wrecked, I''ll chuck it. Sure, it''ll hurt a bit, but I can endure it."

    With that in mind, Moon Fairy began reciting the incantations of the Will of Divine Destion..

    A hum echoed through the fiery cave. Moon Fairy, stripped down, was enveloped in a white ethereal mist. Suddenly, he transformed into a snowy three-tailed fox. Even though the fox was male, it had an alluring charm inherent to its species, a gift that Moon Fairy had used quite conveniently to procure the Deste Essence.

    Now, the fox expertlynded on all fours, squinting at the Bone Phosphor me. Within its eyes, two pale whirlpools emerged, reminiscent of the dawn of the universe. As the Will of Divine Destion took effect, this seemingly average fox underwent a profound transformation, its very essence mirroring the vast expanse of the universe.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Without further ado, the fox gulped down the Deste Essence revered by generations of demon lords.

    "Ugh..." Instantly, the fox curled up in agony. Its body trembled violently, bloodshot eyes reflecting its torment. zing white mes surged, incinerating its fur to ashes in a sh!

    This wasn''t cultivation; it was more like a grisly self-immtion!

    The Deste Essence was the me used in alchemical concoctions and infusing swords. Even the most formidable of demons, with their resilient bodies, dared only to touch it externally. And here was a mere Demon Emperor, daring to consume it with his flesh and blood?

    In this realm, any demon audacious enough to devour the Deste Essence was effectively signing their own death warrant. The sole oue was to be incinerated to ash.

    "Damn, that hurts!" Moon Fairy groaned. Every inch of him was ame. Bones, intestines, heart, and flesh, all seemed to be roasting on a spit. The agony was beyond human endurance.

    For a moment, Moon Fairy contemted giving up. But then he recalled what he''d said earlier. He repeated to himself, "It''s just a body double. I can endure it!"

    And endure he did, until the scorching fire of the Deste Essence reached his Demon Core. The true transformation of the Will of Divine Destion began here.

    "The cultivation system of demons differs from that of human immortals. Although the third realm for both is the core, the fourth realm diverges distinctly."

    "While the way of human Immortals transforms the core into a dragon, the way of the demons is far more ruthless, shattering the core into the body, fusing demonic power and flesh as one. Instead of gathering in the Dantian, the stronger the body, the greater the demonic power.

    "So, the fourth realm for demons is called the Sovereign Physique Realm."

    The Sovereign Physique Realm and the Sovereign Dragon Realm wereparable in strength, but different in method and expertise.

    "Now, let''s see if this ultimate treasure of the Grand Wastnd, the Star grade Deste Essence, can elevate my Demon Core quickly, shatter it in one step to enter the Sovereign Physique Realm, and forge the initial stage of the Divine Destion Physique."

    The Will of Divine Destion formed an abyss-like maw on his Demon Core, biting the Deste Essence me and drawing it atop.

    <i>HUM! </i>The two kept merging, and Moon Fairy''s Demon Core expanded. Finally, in a moment of crescendo, the core shattered, its demonic power surging throughout, filling every sinew, tissue, and bone. The three-tailed demon fox''s body emitted crackling sounds, signaling the inception of the Divine Destion Physique...

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>The demon fox was suddenly enshrouded in even more ferocious white mes. However, unlike before, its flesh wasn''t charred but reborn. Under the zing inferno, strands of gleaming silver fur regrew, and it transformed back into a beautiful fox.

    Subsequently, it morphed into its human form.

    Moon Fairy''s waist-length silver hair billowed out like a majestic curtain. When he opened his eyes, they had transformed to a piercing silver, with twin orbs of pale, intense mes dancing within. Silver luminescent patterns, reminiscent of otherworldly tongues of Bone Phosphor mes, coursed over his entire body. Even his features sharpened, adopting an otherworldly, enchanting allure...

    "It''s done." A sly smile crept upon Moon Fairy''s lips. "Onto the second path!"

    He rose gracefully, and although his frame appeared slender, a power surged from within him, reminiscent of ancient, formidable beasts. His demonic power now seemed to meld seamlessly with his very flesh.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>White mist spiraled around him, and within this mist, numerous illusions took on a more tangible form.

    "Even my demon magic has improved!" Moon Fairy mused. The transformation was, indeed, profound. "Worthy of the Will of Divine Destion, worthy of the Divine Destion Demon God, worthy of the Creator Immortal!"

    Unlike his main body and the Primordial Void Technique, the Will of Divine Destion focused on refining the physique. There was no Dantian restriction; he simply needed to continually fortify his body through the wastnd''s influence.

    Though this approach was somewhat limiting in the types of techniques avable, its initial growth stages were undoubtedly simpler.

    "Most importantly, I can transfer the Divine Deste Physique to my main body at any time," Moon Fairy muttered. This was crucial. The Creator Immortal was, after all, unified.

    "With over 18,000,000 Spirit Stones supporting my main body, after meditating for a single day, I''ve already broken through two stages, reaching the Establishment Origin Core Realm! Mybat power seems to be nearing the peak of the Sea of Swords. I wonder, if my main body were to duel with this body double, who would win?" Moon Fairy mused curiously.

    "My current Divine Destion Physique''s demon magic might be stronger, but it probably can''t withstand my main body''s hundredyer Sword Aura and Sword Soul." At this thought, Moon Fairy chuckled, murmuring to himself, "It''s sort of like having my left hand fighting the right. There''s likely no clear answer."

    Confronting oneself? How would that even work? Punching yourself in the face?

    With a deep exhale, Moon Fairy adjusted his posture and slowly raised his gaze to the endless demon mountains beyond his cavern dwelling.

    "The Grand Wastnd Pact?" He chuckled to himself. Slipping into a roomy robe, his silvery hair, luminous as moonbeams, cascaded down his back. Barefoot, he made his way toward the entrance of his cavern.

    The world outside was deep in the throes of midnight.

    A lithe young girl, snake-like in her flexibility, was dozing against a rock by the cavern''s entrance.

    "Ling''er," Moon Fairy called out gently.

    Stirring with a murmur, the girl, Ling''er, lifted her drowsy head. Catching sight of him, her eyes lit up. "You seem... different somehow."

    "Different how?" His gaze was icy as he watched her.

    "Even more handsome! Did you use one of your demon magic on me again?" she teased with yful, flirty eyes. Standing, she moved closer, her face flushed. "I stole the Bone Phosphor me for you. You said you''d reward me..."

    "Come inside," he beckoned, taking her hand and leading her back into the cave. Ling''er''s heart raced in response.

    Inside the cavern, Moon Fairy turned and pulled her into an embrace. With a blush painting her cheeks, Ling''er whispered, "You know, I''ve decided. If my father still refuses, I''ll elope with you!"

    "Why does he refuse?" he asked, his tone chilly.

    "He says snakes and foxes don''t mix; we''re not of the same kind. So annoying!" she pouted.

    "He has a point," Moon Fairy murmured, bending down so that their faces were barely an inch apart. His hands found her waist. "Ling''er, do you truly care for me?"

    "I do! You''re so much more handsome than those crude brutes, and you''re funny... and a little bad," Ling''er confessed with a shy smile.

    "Is that so?" His voice dropped an octave. "Well, tonight, let''s see just how <i>bad</i> I can be."

 Chapter 113 - A Woman Surnamed Zhao

    <h4>Chapter 113 - A Woman Surnamed Zhao</h4>

    "Ling''er..." Moon Fairy called out and tenderly pressed his lips to hers..

    Ling''er shyly reciprocated. The atmosphere was thick with passion. Suddenly, Moon Fairy whispered in her ear, "You''re such a kind-hearted girl."

    "Of course! I wouldn''t even harm an ant," Ling''er murmured dreamily.

    "Have you ever consumed a human?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "I have, especially infants. Their tiny cries are quite delightful," she hummed softly. Before she could say more, fangs suddenly sprouted from Moon Fairy''s mouth, plunging into her delicate neck!

    "Ah, what are you doing?!" With a sharp cry, Ling''er tried to shove him away, but his ws pierced her flesh, holding her firmly.

    In moments, she was drenched in her own blood. A chilling phosphorescent me zed on Moon Fairy''s body, swiftly transferring to Ling''er, charring her smooth skin. Trapped and unable to escape, her desperate screams filled the air.

    "No! No!" Suddenly, Ling''er''s form expanded, morphing into a shimmering white serpent.

    Moon Fairy transformed too, revealing his true form as a three-tailed fox demon. His ws dug deep into the serpent''s flesh, and his teeth tore a chunk from her body.

    "W-why...?" The white serpent''s eyes shimmered with despair.

    Silent, Moon Fairy mped his jaws shut and unleashed a torrent of white mes into her mouth, incinerating her from the inside. The serpent''s body ignited, and with a heart-wrenching scream, she crumbled to ashes.

    "I loved you..." The ghostly wail of the serpent persisted. She had risked her father''s wrath to steal something precious for him, and he had repaid her with betrayal?

    Moon Fairy gazed at her, uttering coldly, "I am sworn to destroy all demons."

    The white serpent, in utter disbelief, retorted, "Aren''t you a demon yourself...?" As thisst thought hung in the air, her soul disappeared like a wisp of smoke.

    He gazed at the demon mountain before him and murmured, "The Creator Immortal is the source of all things, epassing man, demon, and everything in between. But I am Yun Xiao, merely a man! A mortal who returned from the dead!"

    Every time he told the Blue Star and the Red Moon he wasn''t the Creator Immortal, that he wasn''t their Creator, the two remained unmoved. But Yun Xiao had never forgotten himself. He wasn''t some nebulous child of chaos but a young Emperor from the Cloud Nation who had been brought back to life.

    That fact was immutable.

    "To y a demon, one must be a demon first!" Moon Fairy lowered his head and from the white snake, pulled out a white jade token.

    "A War of Immortals jade token?" He chuckled, "Well then, one man, two identities. Why not join the War of Immortals as both people? That doesn''t sound too bad."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Sea of Swords, Sword Heaven, Murong Manor. The Murong Family was the third greatest household in Sword Heaven, only surpassed by the Lin and Ning Families!

    Murong Li, a powerhouse in the Early Sovereign Dragon Realm, was a revered Ancestor of Sword Heaven. On this deep night, about twenty members of the Murong Family were engaged in a courtyard discussion. At the head of it all was Murong Li himself.

    "Father, I''ve tallied it. We of the Murong Family have sent fifty-one members to the mortal realm to deal with demons. Most are young disciples," the Great Sword Venerable, Murong Yi, said.

    "Out of the five hundred from Sword Heaven, more than a tenthe from our family. We''ve given our all," Murong Li remarked, stroking his long beard.

    "Once the bait''s in the water, we''ll just wait for the fish to bite," Great Sword Venerable Murong Kang said with a cold smirk.

    Both of these Great Sword Venerables were sons of Murong Li.

    "We''ll use the small fish to catch a big one. How brilliant! I hope our descendants can make a name for the Sea of Swords and make that rogue wish he were dead!" Murong Li eximed with a ferocious tone.

    "Father." Murong Kang raised an eyebrow, "So, are you implying the Sword Lord had intentions for Yun Xiao, but thed sensed it and outyed him?"

    "Exactly! That boy is ruthless!" Murong Li said, icily.

    "I always thought it strange. With the Sword Lord and Madame Xiao being so devoted and arranging so many marriages, why would he suddenly go mad? Now it all makes sense," Murong Kang mused.

    The gravity of the situation was palpable in the air. "By now, we might still be clueless about the Sword Lord''s true intentions," Murong Yi stated with a frosty demeanor. "But that doesn''t matter. What''s important is that Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower need to unite. We have to eradicate this rebel! If he remains alive, it''s a disgrace to the entire Sea of Swords."

    The audacity! The sheer audacity of one youngd to y around with two mighty Sword Cultivator factions!

    "The most heart-wrenching part is the Azure Kite Sea," someonemented. Thinking about it was like pouring salt on an old wound¡ªthe legacy of generations lost.

    "The Sword Cultivators of Azure Spirit, those hillbillies, they can''t hide forever." Murong Li chuckled sinisterly. "With those weaklings by Yun Xiao''s side, his death is inevitable. The only question is how he''ll meet his end. Dawn approaches, and by sunrise, Ye Guying will emerge. Yun Xiao will have nowhere to run."

    "Sunrise? That means less than three hours remain!" Murong Kang chuckled with gleeful anticipation, already savoring the uing spectacle.

    A cruelughter erupted among the twenty members of the Murong Family, chilling to the very bone. But in an unexpected twist, a streak of azure light shot directly into Murong Kang''s mouth!

    <i>SPUTTER! </i>Murong Kang leaned back, his eyes rolling white, a twisted smile on his face. Blood and other viscera trickled down from the back of his head...

    "Kang!" Murong Li''sughter froze instantly, his face pale as he gazed upon his son''s grotesque end.

    Before anyone could react, the azure light darted around the room like a water skipper. Starting from Murong Kang on Murong Li''s left, to Murong Yi on his right.

    <i>HUM! </i>Suddenly, an azure Sword Soul radiating with a hundredyers of Sword Aura materialized right before Murong Li''s eyes.

    <i>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </i>All the members of the Murong Family at the table mirrored Murong Kang, their heads thrown back, blood dripping, frozen in time.

    "Yun... Yun... Yun Xiao..." Murong Li''s voice trembled as he stumbled to his feet, wailing in terror. He copsed to his knees, "You''ve got it all wrong! I was just about to support your im to be the new Sword Lord!" he cried out in desperation. But it was toote. With a sudden burst, his head exploded.

    In an instant, the grand Murong Manor was cloaked in a deathly silence.

    <i>HUM! </i>The azure Flying Sword soared away, leaving no trace behind. From the beginning to the end, no one had seen its master.

    Not long after, Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng, Madame Xiao, and a host of Sword Heaven''s Sword Cultivators arrived.

    Pushing open the courtyard door, they were immediately confronted with the grim tableau of the Murong Family''s deathly feast.

    Apart from Murong Li whose head was all over the walls, the remaining individualsy in with their heads cocked up in the air, their blood pooling beneath the table like a meandering stream.

    Those who saw it gasped in shock!

    "Yun Xiao is still within Sword Heaven!" Cries of rm rang out. People''s faces drained of color, huddling together in fear.

    The Sword Lord stood in the front, his eyes a fierce red, his hands beneath his sleeves trembling with anger. "Dammit!"

    Just then, another man, his face ashen with panic, rushed over, tumbling as he went. "Sword Lord," he cried, "something''s happened to Second Uncle Lin''s family too!"

    "Second Uncle Lin? What''s happened?" the Sword Lord asked.

    The man nced at the ghastly scene before them and murmured, "The same... all dead!"

    Hearing this, everyone present turned even paler.

    "Dear, with his prowess lurking and striking down folks, what are we to do?" Madame Xiao quivered.

    "We''ll look to the thousand mortal nations," the Sword Lord said, his voice grave and face contorted. "To avoid further assassinations, sound the Jade Sun Bell. Gather all Sword Heaven Sword Cultivators at the Jade Sun Tower!"

    "Understood!" As they made their way to Jade Sun Tower and struck the massive bell, about eight thousand of the remaining Sword Heaven Sword Cultivators congregated, their expressions varied¡ªsome nervous, some frowning, others looking down.

    "The Ning Family is here too!"

    "After both Ancestor Murong and Second Uncle Lin were killed, they remain unscathed, huh..." Ancestor Ning, Ning Que and others stood at a distance, their faces pale, remaining silent.

    "Have they found that traitor Ning Yan?"

    "No!"

    After gathering everyone, the Sword Lord sat atop the Jade Sun Tower, clutching a tea cup, remaining silent. So, the Sword Heaven folks began to murmur amongst themselves.

    By now, night had deepened.

    "Had there been no mishap, I would have already swapped my sword bone and been born anew," the Sword Lordmented, shaking his head, his eyes dim.

    "Dear, you''re a good man. The heavens will protect you! Even if the odds are low, you''ll surely seed!" Madame Xiao said, holding his hand, her eyes filled with tears.

    "Let''s find the culprit first," the Sword Lord whispered, closing his eyes.

    In the midst of the tense atmosphere, a figure in ck robes descended on a Sovereign Sword. As hended, he burst with enthusiasm, "Sword Lord! There''s great news!"

    "Speak!" The Sword Lord''s eyes snapped open, fixing an intense stare upon the neer.

    "It''s about the Heaven Chosen from the Forbidden Tower, Xiao Xue''er. In the thousand mortal nations, she''s hooked a big fish! A woman by the name of Zhao, rumored to be Yun Xiao''s senior sister!" The man in ck practically vibrated with excitement.

    "His senior sister? Surnamed Zhao?" The Sword Lord shot up, his grip tightening so fiercely that the teacup in his hand shattered.

    "Yes!"

    "Is she at the Forbidden Tower?"

    "They''re riding on a sword, so it''s a tad slow, but they should arrive soon." The ck-robed Sword Cultivator grinned. "This is a huge catch!"

    "Excellent! Very excellent!" A gleam of anticipation shed across the Sword Lord''s eyes. Striding forward, he stood at the railing of the Jade Sun Tower, addressing the eight thousand people below, "Those who wish to crush Yun Xiao and restore the honor of the Sea of Swords, step forward! Join me at the Forbidden Tower!"

    "Yes!" A collective shout of agreement echoed. About four thousand individuals stepped forward, ready for the mission.

    The remaining cultivators exchanged uneasy nces, murmuring among themselves, "With the Sword Lord, Tower Lord, and the soon-to-emerge Ye Guying, they won''t need us..."

    With such a tempting bait and the formidable strength of Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower, capturing a youngd was as easy as pie. Why call everyone? The reason was clear. The Sword Lord simply wanted everyone to witness the grim fate that awaited those who opposed him and Xiao Changtian.

    A lesson for all. A mistake that mustn''t be repeated.

    "Out of the great Sword Heaven, we only have 4,322 brave souls?" The Sword Lord chuckled coldly,unching into the skies on his Sovereign Sword.

    A buzzing sound filled the air as over four thousand Sword Heaven cultivators soared, their spirits ame, following their leader.

    Those left behind, numbering just under four thousand stood in stunned silence.

    Among the crowd, Ancestor Ning heaved a heavy sigh. "For Lil Bei''s death, we too hold Yun Xiao responsible. However, Xiao Changtian and Lin Qingfeng''s actions, capturing Yun Xiao''s friends and family and unleashing demons upon the thousand mortal nations are measures we the Ning Family cannot condone even in death."

 Chapter 114 - The Darkest Night!

    <h4>Chapter 114 - The Darkest Night!</h4>

    By the Sea of Swords, atop the highest floor of the Spirit Treasure Walk, news had spread like wildfire among the Sword Cultivators of Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower. Rumors of a bountiful hunt in the mortal realm had them scrambling towards the Forbidden Tower.

    Tales of the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord''s doings across the thousand mortal nations whispered in hushed tones throughout thend.

    Though the deep hours of the night reigned and nature stood still, the bustling voices of Azure Kite Street shattered the silence.

    Outside of Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower, nearly thirty thousand ordinary Sword Cultivators roamed the Sea of Swords. Their skill levelgged behind those of Sword Heaven and were roughly on par with the three thousand from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect who headed north to y demons. Affiliated with various powers and families, they normally operated under the leadership of Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower.

    Now, many frowned upon the actions of Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower''s foray into the mortal realm.

    "Utterly distasteful!"

    "The Tower Lord, a signatory of the Grand Wastnd Pact, is hailed in mortal tales as a virtuous deity. How could he resort to such measures?"

    "Ah! I do hold a grudge against Yun Xiao because of the Azure Kite Sea, but this move by the Tower Lord is regrettable."

    For a while, the Sea of Swords echoed with discontent in the dead of night.

    "I''ve heard that the captive is none other than Yun Xiao''s Senior Sister Zhao! Both Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower have set an borate trap, amassing over five thousand Sword Cultivators, all above the Late Divine Sea Realm. Five hundred of them are even in the Origin Core Realm! If Yun Xiao dares to step in, he''s surely doomed."

    "How can a single man defy five thousand swords?"

    "I''ve heard tales of Yun Xiao ughtering a hundred thousand demons in the Northern Wastnds. But those were mere lesser demons, not even matching up to the Dragon Spring Realm, akin to ordinary mortal warriors. But those five thousand from the Forbidden Tower? They''re the elites of the Sea of Swords!"

    Each one of the five thousand Late Divine Sea Realm or above Sword Cultivators had at least a Moon grade Sword Soul. Five hundred in the Origin Core Realm were even stronger than Ye Tiance.

    It was an inescapable trap!

    In Azure Spirit, only about a thousand people reached the Divine Sea Realm. Meanwhile, those who reached the Late Divine Sea Realm or higher numbered less than one hundred. The three thousand who went to the Northern Wastnds to y demons were in the Late Dragon Spring Realm or above.

    "Such a formation, even if ten Sword Lords and Tower Lords joined forces, they might not break it!"

    This wasn''t about strength anymore. The thousand-year-old foundation from Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower was fully showcased in the cultivation and Sword Souls of this five-thousand-strong force. Five thousand swords attacking from the sky to kill one was more terrifying than facing 5,000 five-hundred-year-old Demon Kings!

    "The Sword Lord and Tower Lord are both in the Late Sovereign Dragon Realm! This young man, should he go on this journey, it''s as if he''s taking on twelve of them by himself!" Being surrounded by Sword Cultivators was fatal. One wrong move and even a lower level Flying Sword could pierce through you. A rain of ten thousand swords was inevitable.

    "Pity for that Zhao Xuanran," a voice chimed in. "Heard she''s the daughter of Sword Heaven''s banished disciple, Zhao Jianxing. She ventured into the mortal realm to y demons with such fiery passion, only to be betrayed by her own kind in the Forbidden Tower. A mere pawn in the Sea of Swords'' power y."

    "After the Grand Wastnd Pact, swords have been sheathed in the Sea of Swords for too long!" An elder eximed. "Thirty thousand Sword Cultivators with no swords to forge, no demons to y. Their Sword Aura stagnates, their realms hard to advance. Some are getting restless."

    "Yun Xiao is here!" A shout broke the conversation.

    Just as many gathered in Azure Kite Street, a young man in white appeared, heading towards the Spirit Treasure Walk.

    "Report his whereabouts and get 1,000,000 Spirit Stones!" Some recalled. But no one moved. There were too many witnesses. The reward wouldn''t split well. Moreover, recalling today''s rumors, a realization dawned on them. Yun Xiao entering the Sea of Swords was like amb walking into a tiger''s den...

    Rumors whispered that the Sword Lord nned an assassination, but Yun Xiao caught wind of it. The Forbidden Tower even issued a death decree against him.

    The two behemoths of the Sea of Swords, one openly hostile and the other covertly so. This young man, amidst them, yed them against each other. Rumor had it that he managed to destroy nearly half the battle strength of both Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower the previous night!

    The tale spread like wildfire, and in just one day, many''s perception of himpletely changed.

    "Schemes, conspiracies, and theatrics can win over people''s hearts for a time, but what remains through the ages is an unwavering spirit and undaunted courage!" someonemented.

    "Still, I despise Yun Xiao! For what he did to my Azure Kite!" another retorted.

    These mixed emotions meant that when the thirty thousand Sword Cultivators saw Yun Xiao daring to show himself, they neither praised him nor called for his capture. They just silently watched him, their hearts filled with a myriad of emotions.

    In a way, this was their way of granting Yun Xiao some semnce of fairness.

    "Yun Xiao!" Around the corner of the street, ady in a ck dress suddenly appeared. Her face was pale, her hair disheveled, and her eyes slightly reddened.

    "Aunt Ning, you haven''t left?" Yun Xiao''s voice was bone-chilling, as if emerging from an icy abyss.

    Ning Yan stared at him, speechless. While he stood seemingly calm, his eyes swirled with a storm of sword energy. An intense aura of sword rays surrounded him, warning everyone to keep their distance. This was the most murderous intent Ning Yan had ever seen emanating from him.

    "Save her," Ning Yan said shakily.

    "Do you care about her?" Yun Xiao shot back, his gaze piercing.

    "I... I don''t know," Ning Yan replied, her face ashen.

    "Is it because Lin Qingfeng yed you for a fool that you''ve finally realized who truly stands by you at this age?" Yun Xiao said, shaking his head. "Ning Yan, your life is truly a tragedy."

    "I made a mistake. Just stop talking! Can you give me a chance to make it right? Just save her. She''s innocent!" Tears streamed down Ning Yan''s face.

    "Do I need you to tell me that?" Yun Xiao said, looking down at her. "If you''re sincere, then use your status to help spread a piece of news for me."

    Before Yun Xiao could even specify what the news was, Ning Yan hurriedly agreed, "I promise!"

    "The reason the Sword Lord protects me is that he wants to extract my sword bone and imnt it into himself, helping him rejuvenate," Yun Xiao said with a cold smirk.

    "Is that true?" Ning Yan was taken aback, as if she had been struck by lightning.

    Everyone had heard about the Sword Lord''s intent to harm Yun Xiao but didn''t know the reason. The truth was even more brutal and bloodthirsty than they had imagined.

    "So, the Sword Lord wants his hundredyer Sword Aura and Star grade Sword Soul..."

    "To rob someone of their Sword Soul, how utterly vile!"

    "No wonder Yun Xiao targeted Lin Chen, causing Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower to sh. Right when he arrived at the Sea of Swords, these two powers were conspiring to split his life apart!"

    Before Ning Yan could say more, many bystanders had already overheard, gasping in shock.

    "Alright! I''ll make sure the world knows of Lin Qingfeng''s evil deeds," Ning Yan dered, clenching her fists. Her once-admiring view of the Sword Lord came crashing down. She looked up at Yun Xiao, her eyes burning with newfound respect. "With this, the world should understand you."

    "Whether the world understands me or not isn''t what matters. What''s important is that not only will I make Xiao Changtian and Lin Qingfeng meet their ends, but I''ll also tarnish their reputations!" Yun Xiao dered, his voice ringing with conviction.

    And that,dies and gentlemen, was karma in action. Two cowardly schemers, and they thought they could take the moral high ground?

    Having said his piece, Yun Xiao brushed past Ning Yan, heading straight into the Spirit Treasure Walk. Though he was alone, his presence felt like a storm from the underworld entering the premises. For a moment, the hundreds within went silent.

    "I need something that can make someone die a very painful death," Yun Xiao said to thedy behind the counter.

    "Gruesome?" Madam Qian''s eyes twinkled with mischief. "How about the Heart-Eating Gu?"

    "That''ll do," Yun Xiao replied with a nod.

    Madam Qian scurried into a secret chamber. After a bit, she emerged, presenting a jade vial. "This is enough for one person. Over three days, it''ll gnaw through bones, then flesh, while countless bugs devour the heart."

    "Great. How much?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "200,000 Spirit Stones," she stated.

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao produced 2,000,000 Spirit Stones. "Give me enough for ten."

    "nning to make ten people suffer, are we?" Madam Qian arched an eyebrow.

    "No. All for one. I''m not the waiting type," he responded.

    "Enough for ten people, but all for one? That''s a fate worse than death," Madam Qian drew a sharp breath. Her gaze softened with a touch of pity. "The captured girl... she''s the one you bought the armor for, right? Judging by the speed of the Sovereign Sword, she''ll soon be in the Forbidden Tower."

    Yun Xiao remained silent, taking the Heart-Eating Gu and turned to leave.

    "Hold on!" Madam Qian halted him.

    "Yes?" He turned back, his eyes as unfathomable as the abyss.

    "You''re walking into a trap. That''s five thousand Sword Cultivators at the Late Divine Sea Realm or higher. Five hundred of them are in the Origin Core Realm or higher, including the Sword Lord and Tower Lord who are both at the Late Sovereign Dragon Realm! And let''s not forget Ye Guying who''s soon to emerge. This is a death trap," she warned earnestly.

    "And if I don''t go, would you respect me?" Yun Xiao countered.

    "Not in the slightest," she dered.

    "Then your point being?"

    "I see potential!" She stared intently at him, fire in her eyes. "I''ve been around for decades, seen all sorts, but in just one nce, I knew you''re a soaring dragon. It''d be a shame for someone so young to perish in this godforsaken pond."

    "So what''s the catch?" Yun Xiao asked, raising an eyebrow.

    "Just take this," Madam Qian tossed him a ck box.

    He caught it deftly. "And what might this be?"

    "A Sword Heart..." she said with a smirk of pride, "straight from the heavens themselves. To be quite frank, this little thing''s worth more than my entire shop."

    "A Sword Heart from the Heavenly Realm..." Yun Xiao''s mind drifted back to the day he''d taken out the Wu Family. This was the exact nourishment the Heaven Burial Sword Soul needed.

    "How much?" He asked, ncing skeptically at the ck box. If a mere map from Madam Qian cost a fortune, this Sword Heart was surely beyond his reach.

    "On the house," she replied with a sly grin.

    "For free?" Yun Xiao gawked.

    "Consider it a goodwill gesture. On behalf of the Heavenly Realm''s Spirit Treasure Pce," Madam Qian chuckled heartily.

    "Smart move!" Yun Xiao said with an appreciative nod, "From today onward, I owe a favor to the Spirit Treasure Pce. If ever you find yourselves in a jam, just remember, I owe you one." He paused, then asked, "Want it in writing?"

    "Your word''s good enough," she replied, grinning from ear to ear. She might''ve taken a hit today, but in her mind, it was an investment. After all, she knew the value of a good bet.

    "If you strike when they least expect it, use the Sword Heart to eliminate either the Sword Lord or the Tower Lord. Heck, wipe ''em both out if you can. The rest will scatter like flies," she advised.

    Everyone knew that Yun Xiao was walking into a trap. And the biggest threat was that army of five thousand elite Sword Cultivators.

    "I''ve epted your Sword Heart," Yun Xiao said, his eyes prating deeply into hers. "How I use it, though, is my business."

    And with a whoosh, he was out the door, riding his sword high into the skies.

    "He''s really headed for the Forbidden Tower!"

    "Good heavens!"

    Down on Azure Kite Street, Sword Cultivators exchanged worried nces.

    "Come on! This is history in the making!"

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>Tens of thousands set out. Among them were Elder Wang and Ning Yan.

    That night, the Sea of Swords experienced its darkest hours.

 Chapter 115 - One Sword Shattering Ten Thousand!

    <h4>Chapter 115 - One Sword Shattering Ten Thousand!</h4>

    Forbidden Tower, a towering ck edifice, reaching straight into the clouds, stood with imposing dignity. It loomed like a tyrant ruling over all creation.

    Beneath the Forbidden Tower was a space encircled by ebony walls, named the Forbidden Arena. This was the training and sparring grounds for the Sword Cultivators of the Tower, its floorid with dark bricks.

    Everywhere the eye met, there was ck! Overpowering, indifferent, and above discussion.

    By now, it was well past midnight, with no light in the sky. The torches atop the Forbidden Tower burned fiercely, illuminating the Forbidden Arena. Their mes danced wildly, creating a solemn atmosphere.

    A total of five thousand elite Sword Cultivators gathered in this arena!

    With their backs to the Forbidden Tower, they fixed their cold gazes on the arena''s grand entrance. Their stares were like that of five thousand soaring eagles, poised high in the sky, waiting for prey to fall into their trap.

    Among them, those wearing ck and red robes were from the Forbidden Tower, each one a genius and powerhouse!

    Those donned in blue and green robes were from Sword Heaven, and though this was the Forbidden Tower, the folks from Sword Heaven outnumbered the rest.

    Despite the two factions having shed to near death the previous night, they appeared tonight as if they were the closest of kin. The cultivators from the Forbidden Tower seemed hardly bothered by the Sword Heaven cultivators overshadowing them.

    Put simply, it was a case of marital spats resolving themselves by bedtime. Though, the fights did get rather brutal...

    <i>BOOM! </i>Suddenly, the entire Forbidden Tower shook violently. Overwhelming waves of spiritual energy pressed down from the tower''s pinnacle, causing the whole Forbidden Arena to tremble.

    "It''s Ye Guying!"

    "Such a powerful presence..."

    The five thousand Sword Cultivators visibly shuddered. After a moment of awe, they broke into smiles.

    "Truly deserving of the Dao Seed Talent!"

    "I bet he''s going to emerge ahead of schedule, huh?"

    "Once he steps out, we can surely see him defeat Yun Xiao. Let''s gift him an extra sword thrust as a wee present!"

    At those words, the crowd erupted inughter. However, the thought that Ye Guying was still unaware of his family''s demise added a touch of awkwardness to the mood.

    "We''re just waiting for Ye Guying to ascend to the Heavenly Realm and bring glory to our Sword Realm!"

    "The way of the sword always produces champions!"

    The Forbidden Tower crowd boasted superior numbers and with the Dao Seed Talent leading the charge, they were itching to wipe away the humiliation they suffered. To think a mere youth made them theughing stock, sending their reputations plummeting to rock bottom.

    Among the throng, the figure cloaked in ck, the Tower Lord, and the white-haired Sword Lord stood out, radiating cold authority. Everyone was waiting!

    "It''s time!"

    "Flying all the way from that distant mortal realm with an entire team on their Sovereign Swords must have taken quite a toll!"

    Yun Xiao, unskilled in riding the Sovereign Sword back then, had taken three grueling months to cover this distance.

    <i>HUM! </i>A ray of sword light materialized mysteriously from above,ing to a sudden halt before the Tower Lord, Sword Lord, and others. At its helm stood a young maiden in a blue skirt.

    Xiao Xue''er, one of the few remaining Heaven Chosen of the Forbidden Tower and little sister to Xiao Xing''er, beamed with pride.

    "Xue''er, you''ve done us proud!" Madame Xiao, overwhelmed with emotion, stepped forward to embrace the blue-skirted girl.

    "Yes, I was lucky to stumble upon this little wretch."

    In Xiao Xue''er''s hand was a bup sack. Before the eager eyes of thousands, she tore the sack open, revealing a woman in a ck gown, bound in icy chains, her body marred with bloody wounds and a sh across her face.

    <i>SPLASH! </i>A bucket of cold water sshed onto the bound woman, the sting from her wounds jolting her awake. As her eyes adjusted, they widened at the sight of over five thousand elite Sword Cultivators, at least five hundred of whom clearly outmatched her.

    Where was she? The imposing and stern Forbidden Tower offered a clear answer. Clever as she was, she pieced it all together in an instant.

    Facing the indifferent faces of the Sword Lord, Tower Lord, Madame Xiao, Xiao Xue''er, and others, she showed no fear, her cold eyes mocking. "A band of top-tier Sword Cultivators in their floating sanctuary, rather than saving the world, you deploy in such force to capture a mere Azure Spirit Sword Sect member like me? To threaten a junior? Do you posers really think you deserve to be called Sword Immortals?"

    With that, she shut her eyes firmly. Delicate in appearance, her spirit was indomitable. An image of a young man in white shed in her mind... <i>Junior Brother Yun, take care. Until our paths cross again.</i>

    Zhao Xuanran would never allow herself to be the hindrance in Yun Xiao''s journey to greatness. This life''s bond was cherished, and if fate dictated an untimely end, she was at peace.

    She felt a deep contentment in her heart, wishing only to fulfill her purpose.

    The Northern Wastnds was now no more, her long-held grudges erased. Aside from matters of her father, she had no other lingering attachments. And as long as she didn''t be a liability, what difficulty could a mere Sword Tempering Pill pose?

    "It''s such a pity that I couldn''t witness him ascend to the heavens..." At this thought, a twinge of regret seeped in. But it didn''t waver her resolution. Her gaze intensified in an instant, her heart set on a singr intention. To end her life and shatter her own sword.

    In a mere sh, a dark Sword Soul emerged in her hand. Magic power roared into it, sword marks surged, and her soul seemed to disperse.

    The Tower Lord, Sword Lord, and Madame Xiao, among others, were caughtpletely off guard.

    Who could have predicted that the moment this hostage opened her eyes, her first impulse would be to end her own life? Just how deeply did she care about that young man to make such a final decision?

    With a thunderous rumble, the Sword Lord and Tower Lord exerted their full might to suppress her.

    "Of course, she''s Ning Yan''s wretched offspring! Just as lowly!" At a mere glimpse of the woman in the ck dress, rage contorted Madame Xiao''s face. A Sword Soul abruptly appeared in her hand as she sneered, shing towards the woman. "Thinking of ending your life with that shattered sword? How about I sever your limbs, cripple your Dantian, and let a few lowly demons defile you daily? Let''s see if Yun Xiaoes running then."

    She wanted tough. Did she think suicide would be effective? It might work on others, but not on that sixteen-year-old brimming with youthful vigor and naivety. If she died here, Yun Xiao would only be drawn even closer. That''s why Madame Xiao wasn''t afraid of her dying.

    Before the woman in ck could shatter her sword, Madame Xiao aimed to sh her arm first. Five thousand people looked on, their faces impassive. Just then, a shrill, piercing scream resounded through the Forbidden Arena.

    <i>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </i>A beam of azure light shot in from outside the gate, instantly piercing the skulls of several Sword Cultivators in its path. Wherever the azure light passed, heads exploded!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Blood rained as sword rays shimmered brightly!

    "Huh?" Madame XIao''s skin crawled as she swung her sword, sensing a sudden sense of danger. A shiver ran down her spine, and she spun around just in time to see a blood red dragon made out of sword energy lunging towards her!

    "No!" The rmed cries of the Sword Lord and Tower Lord echoed in her ears.

    "He''s already here?" Madame Xiao''s heart nearly shattered from the shock! The Flying Sword, bristling with fury beyondprehension, ran through her. In an instant, her arms, skull, body, and thighs were pulverized into a bloody powder!

    <i>BOOM! </i>Her entire form exploded into a mist of blood, not even letting out a scream as it sttered into thousands of fragments onto the Sword Lord and Tower Lord, dyeing their ck and white robes crimson with blood!

    The Sword Lord reached out and grasped his robe, feeling the sticky softness under his hand. He looked down to see half of a zing red eyeball... Yes, only half! The other half had exploded. These remains... they were all Madame Xiao¡¯s! A living person, blown to smithereens in an instance!

    This sight was like a sledgehammer to the heads of the five thousand elite Sword Cultivators!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>The azure Flying Sword¡¯s momentum remained undiminished as it plunged into the Forbidden Tower, piercing through dozens of walls. The copse of the walls made the entire Forbidden Tower teeter dangerously amid a cloud of dust.

    This only showed how powerful this single Flying Sword was.

    "Sun Moon Divine Light, Rainbow Through the Sun!!¡± the Tower Lord''s face was smeared with blood. This was the most violent and terrifying Rainbow Through the Sun he had ever seen! Truly unstoppable, killing whoever came into its path!

    "My dear Xiao Yu..." The Sword Lord clutching the half eyeball in his hand, his heart seemed to cease beating, and his face contorted into a grimace of extreme pain!

    "Madame Xiao!¡± Five thousand elite Sword Cultivators from Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower watched the entrance of the Forbidden Arena with parched throats!

    <i>BOOM! </i>The two massive ck gates were kicked open with one powerful leg. The heavy iron door panels crashed into the crowd, instantly crushing dozens into pulp!

    Outside the gate, a youth d in white, wielding a single sword, strode in.

    Both the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord, along with five thousand Sword Cultivators, recoiled in shock. Murderous intent surged like a tempest in their eyes, crimson veins pulsating with rage.

    <i>HUM HUM! </i>All five thousand drew their Sword Souls, their overwhelming Sword Aura forming a dark cloud of des, bearing down on Yun Xiao.

    Within the crowd, only thedy in the ck gown slightly trembled. Amidst her resolute gaze emerged a hint of warmth... He hade! She trusted him! Only by doing so would she do justice to his bravery at this moment.

    "If such a youth is called a foolish ruler, then he''s quite the marvelous fool, isn''t he?" Zhao Xuanran mused, her eyes misting over. In this world, no one understood him better than she did. After all, she had been to the Cloud Nation and heard his tales. In this dark battleground, she was the sole light in Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    Yun Xiao scanned the area below the dark tower, where five thousand Sword Souls gleamed with varied radiance. They lit up the night sky but sent a chill to the heart.

    "Yun! Xiao!" The Sword Lord and the Tower Lord spat out the two sybles, teeth grinding in fury.

    "Shhh..." Yun Xiao raised a finger to his lips and whispered, "Save it. The dead don''t get lines."

 Chapter 116 - 5,000 is Hardly a Challenge!

    <h4>Chapter 116 - 5,000 is Hardly a Challenge!</h4>

    The dead didn''t get lines, did they?

    ¡°Whoever''s sword ims his dog life will be rewarded 10,000,000 Spirit Stones!¡± After the extermination of an entire family, the Sword Lord sure was straightforward! His chilling promation sent the hearts of five thousand elite Sword Cultivators racing, their eyes bloodshot with greed.

    A sum of 10,000,000 Spirit Stones! Such wealth could enrich them for ten generations! Especially those from Sword Heaven. They hade to the Forbidden Tower precisely for these Spirit Stones.

    "Why don''t the Sword Lord or the Tower Lord kill him themselves?"

    "Nonsense! Yun Xiao is so dangerous. With five thousand swords, we can reduce him to bits in an instant. Why should they risk it personally?"

    The Sword Lord and the Tower Lord weren''t isted figures. They were leaders of great powers. Even in their utmost fury, they''d act with reason, choosing the safest methods.

    And so, numerous Sword Cultivators from the Sea of Swords who hade to witness this historical event arrived just in time to see those five thousand, each looking as frenzied as the next, eyes bloodthirsty, faces twisted with rage, all charging at Yun Xiao.

    People died for riches, birds perished for food. Could five thousand top-notch Sword Cultivators be afraid of a mere greenhorn?

    "Watch out!" Many shouted in rm.

    Both sides had a deep-seated hatred. No words were wasted when they met, only shing swords!

    <i>HUM HUM! </i>The rear formation of these Sword Cultivators, all at the Late Divine Sea Realm or higher, channeled their magic power to control their Sword Souls. In an instant, they disyed thousands of Flying Sword techniques.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Those dazzling Flying Swords tore through the air, turning into a dense downpour of Sword Aura, all converging on the flesh and blood form of Yun Xiao.

    The savagery of this sword formation made even the most hardened spectator nch.

    However, the youth in white, the focus of tens of thousands of eyes, still had that age-old indifference on his face. He suddenly recalled the azure Sword Soul he''d just unleashed.

    A tempest surged, and to the shock of all, the sword in his hand was now enveloped by a tornado-like storm of deep blue and ck! This tempest howled and whirled, extending hundreds of meters, turning walls and tiles it touched into dust.

    <i>ROAR! </i>Yun Xiao seemed to wield a hundred-meter-long azure and ck dragon!

    "How has his Sword Soul be even stronger?"

    "It feels a bit terrifying..."

    Many ordinary Sword Cultivators who were neither from Sword Heaven nor the Forbidden Tower just arrived and were immediately startled by the scene before them.

    "What the heck?" From a hidden spot, Madam Qian stared at Yun Xiao''s sword and eximed, "How does that Sword Soul have the power of a Sword Heart?"

    She had hoped Yun Xiao would use the Sword Heart to surprise attack the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord to dominate the scene. Yet, it looked like the boy had yed his trump card right at the beginning.

    "Aren''t you showing your hand a little too early, kid...?" Madam Qian was utterly baffled. "There''s no chance he''ll defeat the Sword Lord and Tower Lord now..."

    In the blink of an eye, those five thousand frenzied Flying Swords approached Yun Xiao from all directions, attacking from all sorts of unpredictable angles.

    A murderous intent burst forth from Yun Xiao''s eyes! <i>WHOOSH! </i>Gripping that hundred-meter-long dark azure dragon, he swept his sword forward!

    <i>BOOM! </i>The dragon cleaved through the heavens. A fierce dark azure storm raged forth, heading straight for the opponents. The Heavenly Realm Sword Heart,bined with the divine power of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, formed a storm of sword energy that instantly collided with those shining Flying Swords.

    <i>KLANG! </i>The dark azure storm, like a venomous dragon, coiled around and shattered Sword Souls, directly breaking through their defensiveyers. Those Sword Souls emitted sharp, agonizing cries. They sounded like the screams of human souls! Next, at least a thousand Sword Souls exploded on the spot!

    "AHHHH!" Over a thousand elite Sword Cultivators from Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower spat out foam, their eyes rolled back, and they convulsed as they fell. A shattered Sword Soul meant a dispersed human soul, indistinguishable from death!

    Before those fallen could scream, the dark azure storm consumed them, instantly incinerating their flesh. Only their contorted skeletons remained, their eye sockets hollow, dead in the Forbidden Arena. Although void of flesh, one could still hear their souls emitting regretful and fearful cries just before they disintegrated.

    "Yun Xiao''s single sh killed a thousand men!" The tens of thousands of spectators outside the Forbidden Tower were stunned for a moment before their tongues trembled, letting out deafening cries! They widened their eyes, their hearts pounding uncontrobly. Just looking at that young man in white sent shivers down their spines!

    Imagine the terror of the remaining four thousand elite Sword Cultivators. They witnessed theirrades perish in an instant, and even now, their Sword Souls were being devoured by the dark azure storm!

    "What kind of power is this..." Everyone except Madam Qian, who had given Yun Xiao his Sword Heart, hadn''t witnessed him draw the Sword Heart into the Sword Soul. It was hard to imagine the Sword Heart could be used this way!

    They all looked up, their faces painted with disbelief and awe at Yun Xiao. Some of the Sword Cultivators from Sword Heaven already felt the urge to back down.

    "I''m out!" In a mere instant, numerous voices shouted out, preparing to flee on their Sovereign Swords from this chaotic maelstrom.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes, swirling with the dark azure tempest, fixed on this group. "You''vee all this way, pointed your swords, and now you wish to leave unscathed?" How preposterous! The lengths they went to capture him, even resorting to loosing demons into the thousand mortal nations, was utterly disgraceful and unscrupulous.

    With just one nce at the wounds on Zhao Xuanran''s body and face, Yun Xiao''s eyes turned devilish. She had almostmitted suicide by shattering her sword!

    "How could I quell this anger without vengeance?" Yun Xiao spat. Did he only resent the Sword Lord, Tower Lord, and Ye Guying? No! He detested every single individual in the Forbidden Arena who had drawn their swords against him.

    "I came to the Forbidden Tower not intending to let a single fly leave alive..." Yun Xiao dered. The young man in white, now enveloped in the dark azure storm, looked like a fierce devil straight out of hell. After decimating a thousand with a single sword stroke, in the next breath, he transformed into a streak of azure light, ferociously plunging into the crowd.

    This was precisely the most terrifying moment for the remaining four thousand Sword Cultivators. With the rise of his sword, even a Moon grade technique like the Azure Dragon Squall summoned a massive hundred-meter azure dragon, apanied by the dark azure tempest, brutally tearing through the crowd!

    <i>BOOM! </i>Everywhere the Azure Dragon Squall swept, flesh and blood were incinerated instantly, leaving only skeletal remains that ttered to the ground.

    It was reminiscent of the scene at Wu Wu''s Red Molten Pavilion, only this time the battlefield was multiplied in scale, and the enemies were countless times stronger. Yet, Yun Xiao was even mightier! He was like a true dragon amidst a pack of wolves. With every sword swing, hundreds perished.

    "Only five thousand came? How could that be enough for me to y!"

    Thunderous roars echoed! d in white with an azure glow, Yun Xiao''s figure dashed about. His sword unleashed a dark azure dragon tempest. Wherever the sword energy swept through, it left behind shattered bodies, dry bones, and rain of blood.

    "DIe!" Yun Xiao''s eyes swirled with stormy intent, his sword shing like lightning. Before the crowd could scatter, they faced the devastating onught of both the Sword Heart and the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, dying en masse. All of this happened in a sh!

    Swift, precise, and ruthless, a recipe for wholesale ughter.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>All the<i> </i>elite Sword Cultivators who tried to flee with their backs to Yun Xiao found swords piercing them from behind, reduced to charred bones mid-flight.

    At least several hundred took to the air, attempting to escape on their Sovereign Swords.

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword transformed into an azure dragon, spiraling in the sky as it elerated explosively mid-air, as if it were a stone skipping over the water''s surface.

    <i>Ten-Step Scale!</i>

    With just one aerial sh, hundreds of heads went flying. In an instant, the decapitated heads soared outside the Forbidden Arena, while the bodies plummeted to the ground, turning into squashed pulp upon impact.

    "AHHHH!!" Seeing this, the remainingbatants were paralyzed with fear, their faces ghostly pale.

    "How can he be so strong?"

    "Not even ten Tower Lords possess this kind of killing power!"

    They had no clue about what had transpired with Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul. But that was now irrelevant. In mere moments, he had reduced the five thousand elite Sword Cultivators to a mere thousand.

    "Kneel!" Yun Xiao bellowed.

    "Yes!" Thest thousand, in their panic, hurriedly knelt, their voices trembling with terror, "P-please... Please spare us!"

    "You''re thanking me prematurely! I''m just making sure you all die in a neat row!" Yun Xiao, his white robes fluttering, suddenlynded before them.

    Gazing at these fearful Sword Cultivators from Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower, whose very souls seemed shattered with terror, he didn''t hesitate for an instant. With a swift grip, his long sword whooshed and shed.

    <i>Sun Moon Divine Light, Gentle Breeze Bright Moon!</i>

    The Sword Lord''s legendary sword technique, once wielded beyond the Azure Kite Sea, emerged again!

    But this time, Yun Xiao''s sh surged with a dark azure tempest of sword energy, even mightier and more ruthless than before. An azure crescent sword beam arced toward the kneeling heads.

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Over a thousand heads took flight with just a single sweep! These heads rained down on the Forbidden Tower like a fierce storm, causing echoing thuds. Blood sttered across its entirety. Inside, the once-promising geniuses, in their final push, were probably having a rather unsettling moment.

    In Yun Xiao''s vision, a multitude of headless bodies bled profusely, remaining on their knees, unmoving. Indeed, their end hade prematurely. "Anyone I decide to kill shouldn''t dream of living!"

    So with that swing, Yun Xiao poured every ounce of the Sword Heart''s power to achieve such explosive devastation. The concluding tempest collided with the Forbidden Tower, sending the dark structure into wild tremors.

    From that moment, all five thousand elite Sword Cultivators from Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower met their end in less than twenty breaths.

    Factoring inst night''s losses, Sword Heaven''s numbers dwindled by two-thirds. As for the renowned Forbidden Tower, of the original thousand geniuses and powerhouses, fewer than five remained!

    Leveling the Forbidden Tower wasn''t just wishful thinking anymore. It had actually happened! Yet, Yun Xiao wasn''t representing Sword Heaven any longer. He stood for himself and his sword alone!

 Chapter 117 - Two Swords in Perfect Harmony!

    <h4>Chapter 117 - Two Swords in Perfect Harmony!</h4>

    At that moment, the tempestuous azure storm on the Heaven Burial Sword Soul suddenly dissipated. All returned to silence.

    Yet, the Forbidden Arena, littered with skeletal remains and the kneeling, headless bodies of thousands, was a sight that the tens of thousands of onlookers would never forget!

    Inside the Forbidden Tower arena, an eerie quiet reigned. Outside, not a peep could be heard. Every eye was fixed on the young man in white. With hearts racing, many recoiled a few steps, their faces gone pale as sheets. Their prior dealings with him in the Sea of Swords hadn''t endeared him to them. Yet now, they were scared, truly awed.

    Yun Xiao saw the tens of thousands of anxious eyes and said, ¡°That fear is just right! You all should fear me!¡± Respect mightst a moment. Fear, however, couldst a lifetime.

    ¡°Remember this scene. Anyone who dares harm myrades from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect will meet this fate!¡±

    The path of a cultivator wasn''t one of charity.

    When Yun Xiao cast his gaze outside, it felt as if the hearts of tens of thousands simultaneously stopped, their faces turning to offer him a nervous, awkward smile. Cold sweat drenched the backs of the multitudes.

    ¡°Rightfully so, the Forbidden Tower issued a kill order on Yun Xiao to protect Ye Guying. Everyone was after him, and so he razed the tower. Makes sense to me!¡±

    ¡°The Sword Lord, seeking his sword bone, betrayed Yun Xiao''s trust. Then those four thousand Sword Heaven Sword Cultivators, discarding all sense of righteousness, sought Yun Xiao''s life. They got what they deserved!¡±

    Without Yun Xiao uttering a word, these masses raised a banner of justice on his behalf. He was now the righteous avenger. However, had he been torn apart by wild swords today, within mere moments, he would have been painted as a reckless youth, challenging authority with the audacity of an ant.

    Such was reality. The strong, the victors, dictated the narrative. To silence others, one had to pierce their tongue with a sword.

    With Yun Xiao''s strike, it felt as if he had stabbed into the throats of these tens of thousands, each feeling the taste of fresh blood in their mouths. Folks like Madam Qian, Ning Yan, Elder Wang, and others were genuinely ted. Others, including a group from the Ning Family and the newly arrived Sword Heaven cultivators, just stood there, feeling a cold chill at their necks...

    Had they made the wrong choice half an hour ago, their heads would now be rolling on the ground. The Forbidden Arena was littered with mountains of corpses and rivers of blood.

    "The thing is..." someone whispered, "the divine power in Yun Xiao''s sword seems to have vanished..."

    "Had he used that power against the Sword Lord or the Tower Lord just now, those two would already be pushing daisies. Those five thousand Sword Cultivators wouldn''t even need to fight; they''d likely run in terror."

    "Why would he go to the extreme of ughtering five thousand men? It''s like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut."

    Even in their reverence for Yun Xiao, folks were baffled.

    The Sword Lord and the Tower Lord were just as puzzled.

    When Yun Xiao went on his rampant killing spree, their faces drained of color. Only realizing that the dark azure storm around Yun Xiao was weakening did they not flee. But now, everything seemed to have returned to some semnce of normalcy. The only problem? Nearly all of their supporters were dead.

    The Sword Lord and Tower Lord exchanged a deep look.

    "Ye Guying might need some more time," the Tower Lord remarked, looking up at the sky which hinted at theing of dawn. "Lil Feng, it seems we''re back to our younger days, fighting side by side, ready to stake it all."

    "Let''s do it," the Sword Lord responded, his voice raspy, his eyes bloodthirsty. The jovial, carefree man who loved a good drink was nowhere to be seen.

    "It''s fine, it''s fine..." Xiao Xue''er, the only one left by their side, said in a feeble voice. "In terms of rawbat strength, Yun Xiao is no match for you two! Kill him, and I''ll go after that Zhao¡ª"

    Before she could finish, a streak of sword light shed. <i>THUD! </i>Her headnded in the Tower Lord''s hands.

    In the distance, a young man gripped his Flying Sword, pointing its tip at the Sword Lord and Tower Lord, his gaze defiant. "You two so-called mighty leaders of the Sea of Swords, dare you face me together in death?"

    The Tower Lord''s hands trembled, staring at Xiao Xue''er''s head. With her death, the thousand-year legacy of the Forbidden Tower boiled down to just him and Ye Guying. His heart wasn''t just bleeding. It was gushing. This was an undying enmity, a towering hatred.

    "Has Yun Xiao be too cocky? If you really count raw strength, both the Sword Lord and Tower Lord are in the Late Sovereign Dragon Realm. Rumor has it they both possess nine-thousand-year-old Sword Rings. They rose to power by ughtering their way to the top. Facing them one on one is already challenging, but taking on both? That''s a tad too overconfident," Ancestor Ningmented shakily.

    "Enough with the talking, or I fear we''ll have egg on our faces again!" Ning Que snapped at his father.

    "..." Ancestor Ning merely sighed and said no more. Even if doubt gnawed at him, he, too, was wary of the embarrassment of being proven wrong.

    "If Yun Xiao prevails..." Ancestor Ning''s voice was ragged, "we''ll bow to him immediately and arrange for Lil Yan to wed into the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. From then on, in the Sea of Swords, only our Ning Family will stand as the supreme household."

    "But that hinges on whether Zhao Jianxing even wants Lil Yan," Ning Que interjected, "They barely know each other!"

    "It''s fine! They have... a child." Ancestor Ning cast an appreciative nce at thedy in the ck gown. "My granddaughter, a result of our distinguished lineage. Just look at her! Had she grown up in Sword Heaven, she wouldn''t just be limited to the Establishment Divine Sea Realm. She''d be a Sword Princeling at the very least."

    Ning Que, clearly exasperated, pointed out, "You do realize this girl''s life is still in danger, right...?!" As the words left his mouth, a mischievous little ck beast appeared from seemingly nowhere, sneakily snapping the chains holding the woman in the ck gown.

    Ning Que''s heart leapt into his throat. "Father, Lil Yan! To the rescue!" hemanded.

    Without hesitation, Ning Yan and Ancestor Ning darted towards the Forbidden Tower''s shadow, taking advantage of the momentary distraction of the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord who were preupied with Yun Xiao.

    Just as the two powerful lords took a step forward, the Ning Trio intercepted them.

    "My daughter...!" Ning Yan cried, rushing forward, tears glistening. She embraced thedy, who showed a sh of annoyance at seeing her but understood the urgency of the moment.

    The trio swiftly whisked her away, under the very noses of the distracted lords.

    "Ning Family!" The Sword Lord spun around, fury evident in his gaze. "You dare to oppose me? Once this whelp is taken care of, I''ll settle the score with your entire household!"

    Ning Yan shot back, dripping with scorn, "Lin Qingfeng, you''re nothing but a decaying, poisoned old fool. You can''t even protect your own family and you have the nerve to threaten us? How long do you even have left to live?"

    "You..." Stung by the words, the Sword Lord''s face darkened, a storm brewing in his eyes. Overwhelmed by murderous intent, he and the Tower Lord knew one thing. They had to kill Yun Xiao or their reputation and legacies would be forever tarnished, reduced to mere jest.

    By killing Yun Xiao, the two at least had a chance to take back control of the situation. There was no turning back now!

    Fortunately, Yun Xiao might have seeded in his rescue, but he showed no intention of leaving. The moment he ensured his beloved Zhao Xuanran was safe, the boulder in his heart settled. From then on, all he saw when he looked at the Sword Lord and Tower Lord, amid the power fluctuations from the top floor of the Forbidden Tower, were targets for his de!

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>Yun Xiao advanced, stepping over the bodies of Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower''s fallen, marching towards the two true powerhouses of the Sea of Swords.

    The wisest course would''ve been to wipe them out with the Sword Heart, but Yun Xiao wasn¡¯t about wisdom today!

    It wasn¡¯t merely because he intended to finish off five thousand souls; it was the indomitable belief in his heart that guided him. Throughout his journey, aside from his battle with Lin Chen, he¡¯d met no worthy adversary...

    The Rebirth of the Creator Immortal spanned a mere fourteen days! From the very start, cutting through the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, piercing the Sea of Swords, he¡¯d ended up right beneath this Forbidden Tower! With no influential background, not born with a silver spoon or a powerful lineage, no mentors, and no fancy connections, he still rose against the odds, unbeaten at every turn. This was true invincibility!

    Now, these two long-standing overlords finally posed a challenge. And what a challenge it was! The pressure was immense, and Yun Xiao craved a straightforward, no-nonsense fight. d in white, sword in hand, and standing atop countless foes, he¡¯d finally earned this battle.

    Fortunately, the Sword Lord and Tower Lord didn¡¯t disappoint. When the battle was back on an even keel, the two, driven by boundless fury and grudges, showed no hint of fear or distortion in their intentions.

    <i>HUM HUM! </i>Their gaze was cold as ice, and standing side by side, they unleashed their swords in near unison, nketing Yun Xiao with a torrent of sword energy and murderous intent.

    The Sword Lord¡¯s sword, much like Lin Chen¡¯s, was a pristine white Upper grade Holy Radiance Sword Soul, adorned with fifty-nineyers of Sword Aura. The Tower Lord''s Sword Soul, on the other hand, was a spectacle of violet and crimson. Violet lightning rolled around it, while crimson mes scorched its surface¡ªa rare dual-element Thunder me Sword Soul with sixtyyers of Sword Aura.

    Before the emergence of two monstrous talents, Yun Xiao and Ye Guying, their Sword Auras were hailed as the top two in the Sea of Swords! Even more terrifying than their Sword Auras were the Sword Rings adorning their des.

    Each had two. Four in total, all forged from nine-thousand-year-old demons. These ancient demons, now in the Sovereign Body Realm, no longer possessed their Demon Cores. Instead, their entire bodies were refined and crystallized into Blood Crystals, forming the so-called Blood Crystal Sword Rings. A Blood Crystal, born of an entire demon''s flesh and essence, naturally boasted greater power than a mere Demon Core.

    Each man had two nine-thousand year-old Blood Crystal Sword Rings. This was the arsenal of the two mightiest beings in the Sea of Swords, surpassing talents like Lin Chen and Great Elders like Xiao Yuan.

    These two lords, while seemingly adversaries, were in fact long-time friends. The Sword Lord''s Sword Rings wielded the power of wind and water, invoking the demon magic Heavenly Tempest and Earthly Ocean Surge. On the other hand, the Tower Lord''s Sword Ringsmanded fire and lightning, known as White Abyssal me and Violet Lightning Seal.

    Their swords danced, bringing forth elemental chaos. One sword churned the seas and whipped up storms, while the other brought forth roaring thunder and searing mes.

    These four Sword Rings, while not as potent as Yun Xiao''s earlier dark azure storm, were several times more formidable than his Thousand Waters Lure and Ghostly Inferno.

    <i>BOOM BOOM! </i>With the Sword Lord on the left and the Tower Lord on the right, they encircled Yun Xiao.

    "To think that two such powerhouses would team up against a youngster!"

    "We''re witnessing history here..."

    What defined a peerless prodigy? This was it. While the world outside buzzed with chatter, the threebatants within this Forbidden Arena only had eyes for the dance of swords, their gazes burning red.

    "Attack!" With the Sword Lord''s sword cutting through like a raging storm and the Tower Lord''s like a hellfire of lightning, their synchronized strikes and unparalleled teamwork lunged forward in a deadly assault!

 Chapter 118 - Whoever Blocks, Dies!

    <h4>Chapter 118 - Whoever Blocks, Dies!</h4>

    "These Sword Rings are formidable!" At first nce, Yun Xiao was captivated. They were far mightier than the five-thousand-year-old Sword Rings on his Sword Soul.

    The wind-attribute Heavenly Tempest was like the storm of a Sword Heart, a swirling tempest of azure and ck. It coiled around the Sword Lord, both him and his sword, like an angry storm dragon. Wherever the sword light touched, rocks and stone were torn apart by the storm!

    Simr to an enhanced Thousand Waters Lure, the Earthly Ocean Surge coated the surface of the Sword Lord''s Holy Radiance Sword Soul, like a sea dragon coiled around the sword.

    The Sword Lord''s sword, which should have been wary of Yun Xiao''s hundredyer Sword Aura, was now suppressing him with the weighty aura of the vast sea,bined with his deep magical power from the Late Sovereign Dragon Realm.

    On the other side, the Tower Lord''s Violet Lightning Seal and White Abyssal me were even more ferocious. Thunder and me enveloped his body, with the Sword Soul and Dantian serving as dual catalysts, emitting booming explosions of thunder and me!

    Both men, each with their sword, obscured half of the Forbidden Arena, leaving the onlookers terrified.

    "These two Sea of Swords overlords may have questionable characters, but theirbat prowess is undeniably formidable!" an onlooker murmured, giving voice to the shared sentiment of the crowd.

    The pair''s eyes were piercingly cold and stern. When they struck, they didn''t utter a word. Any taunts would just break their concentration! These two weren''t underestimating their opponent, nor would they challenge Yun Xiao one by one, giving him a chance to defeat them individually.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Just as the Sword Lord''s sword lunged toward Yun Xiao''s head, the Tower Lord''s Thunder me Sword Soul had already targeted his waist. The two swords united, embodying elements of water, fire, wind, and thunder.

    Yun Xiao was all too familiar with the Sword Lord''s Palm Sword technique. It was Sun Moon Divine Light, Gentle Breeze Bright Moon!

    Meanwhile, the Tower Lord''s sword transformed into a fire blossom, emitting popping ripples of sword energy! This was the Forbidden Tower''s Star grade sword technique¡ªForbidden Sword, Extreme Inferno!

    Whether it was Gentle Breeze Bright Moon or Extreme Inferno, in Yun Xiao''s eyes, they weren''t overlyplex. However, with the enhancement of those four mighty Sword Rings, thebination of sword techniques and demon magics introduced a slew of unpredictabilities.

    The two swords, harmonized with the elements of water, fire, wind, and thunder, saw their killing power skyrocket!

    "Not bad!" Yun Xiao remarked, his eyes lighting up in excitement. It finally felt life-threatening!

    In that brief instant, the sword techniques of these two overlords yed out in slow motion before Yun Xiao''s eyes. This was a facet of his unparalleled sword talent!

    Under siege, Yun Xiao reacted in an instant. Sun Moon Divine Light? He knew it better than the Sword Lord himself!

    Yun Xiao abruptly shifted to the side. While his feet stuck to the ground, his body bent like a snake, nimbly avoiding the Sword Lord''s Gentle Breeze Bright Moon, The crescent-shaped sword beam shed forward, hitting the ck wall behind. The wall suddenly exploded, resonating with a deafening roar!

    Yet, the most deadly was the Tower Lord''s strike! Yun Xiao''s eyes turned icy. He swiftly retaliated with a sh. Employing the same Gentle Breeze Bright Moon technique, it might not have been as showy in his hands as the Sword Lord''s. Yet, because of the ferocious Sword Aura and the directness of his sword intent, it seemed faster and fiercer!

    <i>KLANG! </i>The Gentle Breeze Bright Moon shed with the Extreme Inferno! <i>HUM! </i>Their Sword Auras, magic power, and Sword Rings collided!

    In a sh, the Tower Lord unleashed a torrent of overwhelming power onto Yun Xiao. The White Abyssal me Sword Ring from his Thunder me Sword Soul came crashing down, scorching Yun Xiao in its wake.

    Yun Xiao had no choice but to hastily retreat. "That demon magic is something else," he muttered, a hint of admiration in his voice. With a single strike, the skin of his hand cracked, and his clothes were in disarray, a testament to the strength of the demon magic.

    However, the Tower Lord, as unyielding as a mountain, now bore a deep frown. He nced at his hand, the Thunder me Sword Soul gently vibrating, revealing some tiny yet ominous cracks. Though minor, they foretold impending peril.

    "Brother Tian, you don''t have water-attribute demon magic. Don''tpete in swordy!" the Sword Lord warned coldly. Almost in the next breath, he was once again in front of Yun Xiao. His Holy Radiance Sword Soul bore the vastness of the sea, capable of withstanding Yun Xiao''s myriadyers of Sword Aura.

    "Mhmm!" The Tower Lord''s eyes zed fiercely, an intense, fiery rage burning within. His face twisted with fury, and in a blink, his Palm Sword transformed into a Flying Sword. Heunched it, aiming directly for Yun Xiao''s eyes, perfectlyplementing the Sword Lord''s assault.

    <i>Flying Sword Technique, Thunderbolt sh!</i>

    This Flying Sword was the embodiment of lightning, incredibly swift in its assault. As it soared, thunder raged all around. The air exploded where it passed, and countless electric serpents coiled around the sword, a sight that left many in awe.

    "Yun Xiao, watch out!" A chorus of gasps erupted from the crowd, leaving one to wonder if they truly stood by Yun Xiao.

    "To think two seniors would gang up on a youngd! Don''t you feel ashamed? If you have any honor, face him one-on-one!" Ancestor Ning shouted, his voice filled with concern.

    "Indeed!" came the echoing agreement.

    "Shameless!"

    Many voices echoed that sentiment, but it was clear their cries fell on deaf ears. The Sword Lord and Tower Lord, having tasted Yun Xiao''s prowess, were even more determined tounch an unrelenting joint attack.

    Death loomed yet again.

    The Sword Lord''s sword, which once summoned the tempestuous seas, now drew upon the might of the heavens, radiating an almost blinding brilliance.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>That dazzling light transformed, producing illusions so convincing that one sword seemed to multiply into ten¡ªeach one lethal. This move was nothing short of exquisite, a disy of unrivaled skill.

    It was the mightiest Palm Sword Technique of Sun Moon Divine Light¡ªMirage of the Moon''s Reflection!

    Among the Sun Moon Divine Light techniques, be it the Flying Sword or the Twin Palm swords, this second technique, Mirage of the Moon''s Reflection, was surely more intricate than Gentle Breeze Bright Moon, a technique specifically designed for deadly one-on-onebat.

    A sword became an illusion, one sword became ten!

    Coupled with the Thunderbolt sh, they were hurtling toward Yun Xiao!

    Two sword techniques, both spelling doom.

    "I know this move too!" In the face of such peril, Yun Xiao chuckled, his voice resonating in every direction. With a swift move, he drew his sword, and his technique was eerily simr to the Sword Lord''s.

    However, while their swordy might be identical, the intent behind them was worlds apart! The Sword Lord''s sword, which split into ten, was artistic and unpredictable, akin to the fleeting reflection of the moon on water.

    Yun Xiao, on the other hand, gave his sword a flick, and as it lunged forward, it astonishingly split into twenty! His version of Mirage of the Moon''s Reflection felt more like a chaotic sword storm.

    Stripping away the pretense, he added ten more lethal intentions!

    "This Mirage... it''s not like mine!" The Sword Lord''s eyes widened in disbelief, a storm of shock raging within his heart. The sword seemed the same, yet Yun Xiao had subtly altered its essence. Terrifyingly, once changed, its lethality became even more chilling!

    In the sh of an eye, those twenty swords, like a furious dragon made of sword energy, bit down on the Sword Lord''s ten derivative strikes from his Holy Radiance Sword Soul. With an unstoppable force, they drove the Sword Lord back!

    <i>THUD THUD THUD! </i>The Sword Lord''s body bore several bone-deep gashes, his clothing stained even more with blood. Meanwhile, his Heavenly Tempest and Earthly Ocean Surge inflicted numerous wounds on Yun Xiao, albeit much shallower ones.

    "Brother Tian!" With another powerful sword thrust suppressing him, a trembling Sword Lord could only retreat, sword in tow.

    Just then, a bolt of lightning in the form of a Flying Sword whizzed past the Sword Lord''s ear, aiming straight for Yun Xiao''s eyes! It looked like a sure headshot!

    <i>Flying Sword Technique, Thunderbolt sh!</i>

    A collective gasp echoed through the crowd!

    Yun Xiao''s vision was engulfed in lightning! Without hesitation, following the rhythm of Mirage of the Moon''s Reflection swordy, he gripped his sword with both hands and shed!

    <i>KLANG! </i>His sword moved as fast as light, striking the Thunder me Sword Soul and deflecting it ever so slightly!

    <i>PUFF! </i>In the world of sword cultivation, killing happened in a blink. Every sword thrust, potentially lethal in a heartbeat. It wasn''t some epic saga that spanned three hundred rounds!

    Although Yun Xiao had managed to deflect the violet-crimson Flying Sword at thest moment, it still grazed his shoulder, tearing a chunk of flesh.

    A humming sound rang out! The eerie force of the White Abyssal me and the Violet Lightning Seal instantly enveloped Yun Xiao, scorching half his body to a charred hue. Especially on his shoulder, where dark blood oozed.

    Yun Xiao was hurt! This was perhaps the first time he''d been wounded since his ascent to the heavens. Thebined might of the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord was evident!

    "Yun Xiao!" The onlookers were beside themselves with fear, their hearts lodged in their throats.

    Zhao Xuanran and Ning Yan, mother and daughter, held hands in their shared anxiety, their palms slick with sweat.

    That heart-stopping moment, when the sword neared its mark, felt as though time itself had halted. The formidable prowess of these three made everyone''s skin crawl.

    "We got him!" The Sword Lord''s eyes gleamed with triumph. But just then, a pained cry from the Tower Lord made him whirl around in rm.

    "Brother Tian?" The Sword Lord snapped his gaze back, only to see the Tower Lord gripping his Sword Soul, which quivered and showed even more cracks than before, emitting a peculiar blue smoke.

    Simultaneously, there seemed to be cracks forming in the Tower Lord''s very eyes.

    It was clear that when the Flying Sword had been struck, the Tower Lord had suffered the grave injury!

    "Almost had me there!" A voice, cool as winter, rang out in front of the Sword Lord.

    The Sword Lord, burning with anger, looked up to see Yun Xiao barely ncing at the wound on his shoulder. "My turn to take the lead," he dered.

    In a sh, the air grew thick with menace. Until now, the adversary had been the aggressor, with Yun Xiao on the defensive. But now, wounded, the roles were reversed.

    "No worries! I''ve got a Sword Tempering Pill," the Tower Lord said with a heavy frown. But he clenched his teeth, turned his Flying Sword back into a Palm Sword, and stood shoulder to shoulder with the Sword Lord. "Hey, remember the days of old, when we cast life and death aside?"

    The Sword Lord, tears glistening with blood, replied, "To die by your side would be my honor. I''d have no regrets"

    At this point, all their past cares seemed insignificant.

    "All the same," the Tower Lord said, then continued with a fierce growl, "But it''s not our time to die. That privilege belongs to this scoundrel."

    With that, he stepped in front of the Sword Lord.

    <i>Forbidden Sword, Nine Heavens Thunderde!</i>

    A deafening roar of thunder apanied his move. Seeing this, the Sword Lord swiftly followed up with Mirage of the Moon''s Reflection. The two acted swiftly, unleashing their most potent moves.

    But Yun Xiao had already made his move. The young man in white, charging forward, mustered all his strength. He brandished his sword, the hundredyer Sword Aura shining brilliantly..

    <i>Sun Moon Divine Light, Rainbow Through the Sun!</i>

    It wasn''t just a Flying Sword strike. It was a deration of his unstoppable momentum at that very moment.

    Swift! urate! Ruthless! With a single stroke, his sword pierced the sun, its energy shooting towards the heavens!

    <i>In my rebirth, I stepped onto the path of immortality with the qualifications of the Creator Immortal. I vowed to grasp the heavens in a thought and y any who dared block my way! </i>Yun Xiao silently dered.

    Who else possessed such vast and boundless spirit? His intentions, his courage, that surge of righteous indignation in his chest, growing ever more potent! A man''s life but a single breath!

    This breath of rage held resentment, injustice, and a determination not to seek cause and effect but to shatter everything with a single sword stroke, fearless even of gods and spirits!

    Under such determination, the Rainbow Through the Sun derived from an iplete sword manual, had ascended to a level even the Sword Lord couldn''t fathom.

    "So fast..." The faces of the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord paled!

    Xiao Changtian drew his sword once more, intertwining with lightning and fire. Its swift momentum, in that sh of lightning and flicker of fire, stillnded on Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword!

    "He hit it again!" A shiver ran through the crowd.

    However, on the very next instant, there was a crisp crack from Xiao Changtian''s dual-element Sword Soul, and it shattered abruptly!

    "What?" Amidst the stunned gazes of the masses, a sh of azure shot forth, unstoppable as a bamboo spear, and lodged directly into Xiao Changtian''s left eye!

 Chapter 119 - Dignity Only Exists on the Edge of a Sword!

    <h4>Chapter 119 - Dignity Only Exists on the Edge of a Sword!</h4>

    <i>HUM! </i>A sharp, jarring ring echoed as the azure Sword Soul once again punctured its way through countless walls of the Forbidden Tower, hurtling diagonally upward.

    <i>RIP! </i>It burst through the heavens, puncturing a gaping hole right through the fluffy clouds!

    <i>THUD! </i>Xiao Changtian, rushing forward, came to an abrupt halt. His head exploded, showering Lin Qingfeng in gore!

    <i>BOOM! </i>Xiao Changtian''s lifeless body slumped to its knees right before Yun Xiao, motionless. Blood cascaded in torrents.

    "Uh..." Lin Qingfeng''s eyes bulged in horror. He slowly sank to the ground, trembling eyes fixated on Xiao Changtian. His mouth gaped, tongue curling, but no words came out. Only tears, tinged with blood, flowed freely.

    Outside the Forbidden Arena, tens of thousands stood as statues, staring in stunned silence at this once paramount champion of the Forbidden Tower now sprawled before Yun Xiao. His soul had already departed for the great beyond.

    A deafening silence prevailed.

    This prolonged quietude lingered just before dawn, as the horizon faintly glowed a deep shade of red. The sun was about to rise, marking the end of this blood-soaked, interminable night. The atmosphere was palpable.

    Tens of thousands of quivering gazes turned to the young man in white, their minds nk, searching for words of praise but finding none. Because this youth didn''t just inspire awe; he evoked fear and reverence. Their legs felt like jelly, and they clung to their neighbors for support, lest they''d drop to their knees on instinct.

    "Sword Lord." After what felt like an eternity, the youth spoke first.

    "No more words," the Sword Lord replied, taking a deep breath. "Victors are crowned; losers condemned. Fate has yed a cruel joke on me. I thought I was dealing with a mereb rat, only to discover a monstrous freak."

    He suddenly erupted inughter. A hearty, boisterousugh! Pulling a massive jug of wine from his small Pouch of Holding, he smiled and made a toast, "Safe travels, Brother Tian!"

    He first poured half for Xiao Changtian and gulped down the rest with a resounding slurp. Whatever he couldn''t swallow, he doused over his head, neck, and body.

    The Sword Lord cast a nce back at the Forbidden Tower. "Think you can handle Ye Guying?" he asked.

    "Wait a tad longer on your journey to the underworld, and you''ll soon discover who apanies you there," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Touche!" The Sword Lord gave him a thumbs-up and moved beside Xiao Changtian. Taking a seat, with a casual swipe of his sword, he decapitated himself. Enough of this! Having been tormented for a decade, he was fed up. Knowing that no matter how the fight progressed, death was the ultimate oue, he chose an honorable exit.

    <i>THUD! </i>The Sword Lord''s body crumpled.

    Two dominant figures of the Sea of Swords perished right before Yun Xiao''s eyes. Behind themy thousands of headless Sword Cultivators, a gruesomendscape marred by spilled blood.

    Such a sight was truly hair-raising.

    "Just ten days ago, Sword Heaven and Forbidden Tower were thriving, with Ye Guying''s First Sword Peak on the verge of uniting the Azure Spirit Sword Sect."

    "Yet today, all have perished.

    The young man in white robes, dripping with murderous intent, made his way to the so-called Sword Immortal of Cloud Nation.

    Ye Guying was about to unlock the heavenly gate. A surprise attack was already in the works...

    Yun Xiao, standing amidst a mountain of corpses and rivers of blood, slowly turned around. Outside the Forbidden Arena, tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators, eyes wide in terror, gazed at him.

    Just then, both Ancestor Ning and Ning Que exchanged nces and knelt before Yun Xiao.

    "Sword Heaven, kneel!" Ancestor Ning bellowed. The remaining four thousand Sword Cultivators went pale, hurriedly kneeling, prostrating themselves before Yun Xiao. Shortly after, the rest of the Sea of Swords'' Sword Cultivators looked at each other. With reverence and submission in their hearts, they too knelt before Yun Xiao.

    Before Yun Xiao could even utter a word, tens of thousands knelt. Such a sight was bound for the annals of the Sea of Swords'' history. For neither the Sword Lord nor the Tower Lord had evermanded such awe.

    "I present myself before the Lord of the Sword Realm!" Ancestor Ning was a sharp one. He had seen the light! With the ties between Ning Yan and Zhao Xuanran, he knew the Ning Family would be spared. Since their safety was secured, he wholly dismissed the death of Ning Bei and devoted himself to Yun Xiao.

    Lord of the Sword Realm! It was a title he conjured in his mind. A title so grand that even the Grand Wastnds Demon Lord would be insignificant in its presence! It was audacious! Certainly, the demons would not be pleased.

    Yet, amusingly, the tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators earnestly and genuinely cried out the title. "Lord of the Sword Realm!" For a moment, their resounding cries reverberated throughout the Forbidden Tower.

    One could only wonder if the person about to emerge from within the tower felt anything amiss. Ten days of seclusion, and then the return of the war god to Azure Spirit Sword Sect? Howughable.

    In the wave of popr acim, Yun Xiao''s face remained impassive. He had seen through it all. Power spoke for itself! "Dignity exists on the edge of my sword, and the truth within the range of my Flying Sword! After conquering the Sword Realm, I am undeniably its dominant force!"

    He took a light breath, a smirk ying on his lips. "Gentlemen, you might be jumping the gun. My fated rival hasn''t made his grand entrance or shocked the world yet. Who''s to say the Lord of the Sword Realm isn''t surnamed Ye?"

    Upon hearing this, Ning Que solemnly replied, "Fated rival? Is Ye Guying even worthy?"

    Ancestor Ning added, "Indeed! We know the strength of both the Sword Lord and Tower Lord. Yet you, at a mere age of sixteen, defeated both. How awe-inspiring! Ye Guying might be impressive, butpared to you? Merely a speck."

    The facts spoke for themselves.

    Conquering the Azure Kite Sea, toying with the Sword Lord, ughtering five thousand with a single stroke, and finally vanquishing the two overlords of the Sea of Swords! Could Ye Guying evenpare? They, in fact, knew little because Yun Xiao''s essence was far more terrifying than they realized.

    "Victory is still undecided. Let me keep a low profile for a bit longer," Yun Xiao said, looking up at the Forbidden Tower, a cold smirk on his lips.

    "Ye Guying truly isn''t up to par."

    "Upon reflection, not even close."

    "He thought ten days of seclusion would let him skyrocket to the heavens? I can''t wait to see the clown''s face when the doors swing open," the crowd jeered, tickled pink at the thought.

    Yun Xiao remained silent, but his disdainful gaze spoke volumes. <i>A rival predestined by fate? </i>he thought. <i>Is there anyone in this world truly worthy of being my rival?</i>

    Off in the distance, atop a towering structure, stood a girl draped in a white dress, her form shrouded in mist, like a dream just out of reach. "The descended Divine Dawn Empress?" Yun Xiao mused. She was intriguing. He had anticipated her silent observation, but he also knew she wouldn''t interfere. From her lofty vantage point among the clouds, she was merely appraising him.

    "Time for a little surprise," Yun Xiao muttered with an internal chuckle, approaching the bodies of Xiao Changtian and Lin Qingfeng. First, he removed the two five-thousand-year-old Sword Rings. "Senior Sister Zhao is nearing the Origin Core Realm. She''ll make good use of these rings."

    With a swift motion, his de pierced the two fallen lords. Four Blood Crystal Sword Rings transferred from their sword bones to Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul. As for the Sword Aura, their mere sixtyyers were not enough to enhance Yun Xiao''s prowess.

    Water, fire, wind, lightning! Four nine-thousand-year-old Sword Rings¡ªHeavenly Tempest, White Abyssal me, Violet Lightning Seal, and Earthly Ocean Surge! These four majestic Sword Rings orbited Yun Xiao''s azure Sword Soul. The sight when he lifted his sword was breathtaking.

    When the tens of thousands of people saw the four Sword Rings, their hearts started pounding uncontrobly. "He''s not human... he''s a deity!" they murmured in awe.

    In that instant, both Ancestor Ning and Ning Que transformed into devout believers. "He wields four Sword Rings! A legend from the Heavenly Realm''s Big Dipper Emperor¡ªGxy grade!"

    With a series of explosive thuds, the masses were shaken. To the ordinary folks, the Sea of Swords was as mystical as the heavens themselves. The Sea of Swords hailed Yun Xiao as an Immortal!

    "A true immortal graces our world!" The entire Sea of Swords erupted in astonishment. At that moment, atop a mountain of corpses and rivers of blood, Yun Xiao stood, appearing as if a genuine Immortal had descended. The masses bowed in reverence.

    On a distant tower, the eyes behind the mask of the girl in white trembled sharply. Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t discern her expression, but predictably, she was spellbound.

    "It seems these four Sword Rings will make the ruler of the Heavenly Realm value me even more," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Weren''t you going to y it cool and lie low?" Blue Star, with a smirk, asked.

    "Why bother? I have you guys as backup," Yun Xiao grinned.

    "Darn it!" Blue Star and Red Moon exchanged a wide-eyed look.

    "Don''t tell me you can''t handle it," Yun Xiao teased.

    "We originally couldn''t, but since you swallowed all the treasures of Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower, we''re good to go," Blue Star cackled.

    Yun Xiaoughed. He knew the capabilities of these two mischiefs. And truth be told, he was now swimming in riches. Sword Tempering Pills? Check. Heavenly Origin Pills? Double-check. Every store and mine controlled by the Forbidden Tower and Sword Heaven filled his coffers. With so much wealth, their ns took flight. With theirbined strengths, what was there to fear?

    But killing was always an option.

    "However, whether I can im all the wealth of the Sea of Swords depends on this final battle," Yun Xiao mused, ncing once again at the Forbidden Tower.

    "Damn so-called destined nemesis! It''s not just an insult to Creator, but it belittles us too!" Blue Star howled inughter.

    At that moment, Zhao Xuanran approached Yun Xiao. The morning sun cast its golden glow upon her. Although her ck gown bore bloodstains and her face showed traces of dirt, nothing could diminish her inherent beauty. Even amidst the grandeur of the Sea of Swords, she stood out¡ªpristine and elegant, her fair skin gleaming, her stature both graceful and curvaceous.

    She was nothing like the ethereal Chen Xi, who seemed to drift above worldly concerns. She possessed the warmth of the mortal coil, the same love for wine as Yun Xiao. Candid and free-spirited, her simplicity and rity were refreshing. In Yun Xiao''s eyes, she was never some unreachable fairy, but a genuine soul of this world, just like him.

    Even now, as Yun Xiao took on an almost divine appearance, women like her, to him, felt more real. Holding her close, he could feel the burning passion of her heart. That night they rode on a sword together, the scent of her hair became the most intoxicating aroma he had ever known.

    When Yun Xiao first stepped onto the path of the Immortals, it was her gentle affection that paved the way. If not for her, his journey from Azure Spirit Sword Sect to Sea of Swords might have only been painted in the red of bloodshed, devoid of warmth.

    Now, as the morning sun broke through, casting its brilliant glow, they stood in the Forbidden Tower''s arena, amidst fallen foes. Both their white and ck robes stained in blood, yet they shared a tender smile, eyes locked without a need for words, warmth radiating in their hearts.

    "With all this romantic tension, don''t tell me you''re going to go at it like rabbits right now?" Blue Star suddenly quipped.

    "..." Yun Xiao rolled his eyes in speechlessness.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Suddenly, the Forbidden Tower quaked. Everyone jumped, then looked up with a mix of surprise and amusement, eyes trained on the top of the tower. "The genius of the Forbidden Tower has emerged, ascending in a single leap!"

    Normally, people would have been moring over talents, power, status, followers, showing off, women, and so forth. But now, tens of thousands remained on their knees, gazing up at the young man in white, barely suppressing theirughter.

 Chapter 120 - What is an Immortal?

    <h4>Chapter 120 - What is an Immortal?</h4>

    Inside the Forbidden Tower!

    "Mid Sovereign Dragon Realm." In a thick haze of ck mist, a young man dressed in ck robes saw his energy swirling around him like a ck dragon, moving throughout his body, letting out intermittent roars reminiscent of a dragon''s call.

    Within his Dantian, nine dragons soared among the clouds and mists, absorbing and emitting magic power, officially transitioning to a new realm.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The sound of surging energy was loud, but it couldn''t drown out the incessant noise from outside.

    "Who''s making such a racket outside the Forbidden Tower?" Ye Guying chuckled lightly as he spoke. "It seems the Tower Lord has gone to some lengths to wee my emergence. Truly worthy of being the king of the Sea of Swords. What an eye for talent and grand vision!"

    He took a deep breath, thinking of the grand scene outside. Despite his usual calm demeanor, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of anticipation.

    "Just over ten days ago, when I came to the Sea of Swords, I was just an overlooked mountainous Sword Cultivator from Azure Spirit. But today, I rise above all, topping the power ranks of the Sea of Swords and soon to soar across the Heavenly Realm, restoring the honor of Sword Cultivators!"

    From obscurity to prominence, how could he not be exhrated?

    Having experienced the luxury and respect of the Sea of Swords, he had so many bottled-up feelings that needed an outlet.

    "After ten days of relentless cultivation, absorbing the Tower Heart legacy, the day has finallye for me to dominate the Sea of Swords..." Ye Guying slowly closed his eyes, listening to the deafening cheers outside, his smile growing broader. "Foster Father! Elder Brother! Are you outside to witness this moment for the Ye Family?"

    Ye Guying''s eyes snapped open, and he abruptly stood, staring at the dark heavenly gate. "And you, Zhao Xuanran! Ever since I entered Azure Spirit, I''ve held you in high regard, only to be met with your indifference and arrogance. You always looked down upon my humble origins, didn''t you? Now that I reign supreme in the Sea of Swords, towering over all in the Sword Realm, does your proud heart quiver in fear? I truly hope you''re out there, witnessing my rise today..."

    Inside the Forbidden Tower, he had known that the woman wouldn''t show. She wasn''t the sort to fawn over someone just because of their strength.

    "She may note, but that''s alright. I''ll descend upon Azure Spirit with countless Sword Cultivators from the Sea of Swords, bringing the Sword Pavilion to its knees!" He couldn''t help but chuckle, recalling a rumor from ten days prior.

    "Yun Xiao? Who''s that supposed to be?" Ye Guying chuckled. Ghosts and demons be damned, he''d vanquish them with a single swipe of his sword. Two decades of enduring ridicule and relentless cultivation, and today was his day.

    <i>BOOM! </i>With a determined stride, Ye Guying caused the obsidian gates to shudder open. As they did, gasps of astonishment echoed, indicating the audience awaiting him outside.

    The world''s spiritual energy rushed in, causing his long hair to flutter dramatically. He strode out, every step filled with the confidence of a sovereign of swords, lord of all he surveyed.

    Before himy his domain, the Sea of Swords. The first sight to greet him were thousands of Sword Cultivators, bowing low before the arena of the Forbidden Tower. None dared to meet his gaze.

    He couldn''t help but let out a soft chuckle. "When I ventured to the Azure Kite Sea, these very same arrogant folks sneered and mocked me. Now, they tremble in my presence. Oh, how the tables have turned!"

    His heart raced, the sensation akin to soaring above the clouds. Years of suppression and silent endurance exploded forth like a volcanic eruption.

    "Amongst the vast Sea of Swords, many are formidable. Yet, under my solitary sword that pierces the heavens, thousands bow. Who dares contend?"

    He marched forward, challenging, "Where is the Tower Lord, the Sword Lord, the Ten Great Elders, the Ancestors of Sword Heaven, and the Ten Great Families?" In a breathtaking disy of authority, Ye Guying''s hawkish eyes scanned the vast arena, taking everything in.

    "I..." Just as he was about to deliver his rehearsed speech, the gruesome sight of bodies piled up in the arena hit him like a sledgehammer. It was as if a blood-soaked sword pierced right through his vision and drilled into his head.

    He paused, slightly taken aback, shook his head instinctively, and looked again.

    The ground was drenched in blood, rivers formed by the flowing crimson. A grotesque sight met Ye Guying''s eyes¡ªthousands of headless bodies kneeling. The most striking was the sight of Sword Lord Lin Qingfeng and Tower Lord Xiao Changtian, two overlords of the Sea of Swords, whom Ye Guying once revered as gods among men. They were now mere headless corpses.

    Their attire, coupled with the fading aura of the Sovereign Dragon Realm, unmistakably identified them.

    "What the fuck, did I meditate so long that I''ve gone mad?" Ye Guying chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. He closed his eyes, rubbed his temples, and took another look. The same scene of blood and death.

    The Forbidden Tower held over a thousand elite Sword Cultivators, yet the number of bodies below seemed to match that count. His eyes bulged, bloodshot and filled with horror.

    "This can''t be!" His heart raced. Staring in shock at the bodies of the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord, Ye Guying couldn''t fathom how these titans had be corpses. It had been only ten days!

    "No!" He descended from the sky, crashing down beside the corpses. Only then did he notice two figures, one dressed in ck and the other in white, standing starkly amidst the carnage.

    The woman in ck? Zhao Xuanran, the sect leader''s daughter whom he''d admired in his youth. He''d never imagined seeing her in such circumstances on what was supposed to be his triumphant day.

    And the young man in white? Merely a nce filled Ye Guying with an inexplicable envy.

    "Such a wless man exists in this world?" His gaze locked onto the young man, his heart thumping inexplicably.

    Months ago, he had stood amidst a simr scene with Yun Xiao. Back then, the woman was Jiang Yue, standing by Ye Guying''s side. But today, it was Zhao Xuanran.

    As Ye Guyingnded, Zhao instinctively clung to Yun Xiao''s arm, leaning against him. The two of them, a striking pair, seemed brimming with affection. A familiar tableau. A shocking reversal.

    "Who are you?" Ye Guying steadied himself, giving the young man in white a cold, appraising look.

    Yun Xiao stared him down, but there wasn''t a hint of that frenzied, bloodthirsty enmity one might expect. Sure, there was anger, but it was subtle. What dominated those eyes was a supreme indifference and a hint of disdain.

    Did Yun Xiao despise him? Absolutely. But it took him just over ten days, journeying from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, to transform that fiery revenge into an intent to subdue and dominate.

    "Who am I?" Yun Xiao''s voice dropped, dark and serious. "Ye Guying, have you forgotten?"

    "What did I forget?" Ye Guying''s mind scrambled.

    "What does it mean to be an Immortal?" With a raised eyebrow and eyes cold as the ancient ciers, Yun Xiao spoke. Each word boomed like distant thunder. "To y you with a single sword strike, that''s what it means to be an Immortal!"

    Ye Guying paused, processing what he''d just heard. The next moment, it hit him like a thunderbolt. His eyes widened in shock, and he stumbled back three steps, nearly tripping over a corpse behind him! He remembered. More than three months ago, in the realm of mortals, he had taken away a prodigious young swordswoman and wrongfully killed a mortal emperor.

    "With one strike, I''ll end you. That''s what it means to be an Immortal." That very line was what Ye Guying had boasted before taking a life. He had engaged in what now seemed like aughable debate with that mortal emperor over the true meaning of being an Immortal. Back then, it didn''t matter to him. Even ten days ago, it barely registered. Just a hint of confusion.

    "That lowly mortal?" Ye Guying''s spine chilled at the sudden realization.

    "That''s right! A mere mortal whom you killed with a single strike, tarnishing his name for eternity. Having wiped out your entire Ye Family in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, thening to the Sea of Swords and killing everyone who sheltered you, I''vee to settle the score, Ye Guying..." Yun Xiao lifted his head, his eyes zing with rage and fire.

    "Y-you''re saying what now...?" Ye Guying stuttered. The idea of a mere mortal, resurrecting from the dead, was already beyond imagination! He had been in seclusion for just ten days! In that time, this mortal had annihted his family, his power, his very foundation?!

    Ye Guying looked on in horror! Indeed! The venerable power, Sword Heaven, lost half its members. The Forbidden Tower, the dominating force of the Sea of Swords, waspletely wiped out. Both the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord, dead on their knees!

    Who was capable of such a feat? Zhao Xuanran surely didn''t have the power. In this Forbidden Arena, only Yun Xiao remained.

    "You killed my entire Ye Family? My foster father, my elder brother?" Ye Guying''s eyes turned blood-red in an instant.

    "Yes, and I''ve captured the souls of over a hundred of your kin, trapping them in the Bluedrop g. Right now, they''re being continuously burned in the Azure Spirit Cauldron, day and night. Quite the devoted son, aren''t you?" Yun Xiao remarked.

    <i>THUD! </i>Blood surged to Ye Guying''s head in rage.

    Memories of Ye Xuanying, Ye Tiance, and the entirety of the Ye Family shed before him. All the warmth and love they shared, now gone forever! With his entire family gone, who was left to witness his meteoric rise?

    The deaths of the Sword Lord and Tower Lord had unfolded right before Ye Guying''s eyes. It was an agonizing reality he couldn''t deny.

    ¡°Lord of the Sword Realm! Execute Ye Guying and restore the honor of the Sea of Swords!¡±

    ¡°Yes! This man colluded with the traitors of Azure Spirit Sword Sect, betrayed the sect master, and deserves death!¡±

    After a brief exchange regarding the affairs of the Azure Spirit, figures like Ancestor Ning and Ning Que spread the word. The news ignited tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators, their collective shouts shaking the heavens.

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>These promations hit Ye Guying like a trio of sucker punches, straight to the heart. In astonishment, he looked up at the vast crowd of Sword Cultivators. The realization hit him like a ton of bricks. "They''re not kneeling to me... but to him?"

    Lord of the Sword Realm? This title even overrode that of the mighty Grand Wastnds Demon Lord. Just how much did they revere Yun Xiao?

    Recalling his entrance through the heavenly gate, when he''d mistakenly thought they were all kneeling to him, Ye Guying was overwhelmed with embarrassment, feeling his heart constrict.

    He''d left his seclusion with dreams of beautiful women, power, prestige, glory, and the chance to bring honor to his family''s name.

    Now, the woman he desired was in Yun Xiao''s embrace. Power and prestige had evaporated, and the glory had transformed into shame. Tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators now followed Yun Xiao. As for bringing honor to his ancestors... well, what honor was there when all of them were dead?

    His dreams were shattered by someone he once thoughtlessly murdered. Ye Guying felt as if he had plunged straight into hell, his heart torn apart. The shocking blow left him feeling as if a thousand swords had pierced his heart.

    At this moment, the only thing that could restore his dignity and flip his fate was the sword in his hands. To a Sword Cultivator, all the power and prestige in the world were but illusions. The Sword Soul and magic power, those were the essence of their existence. With a sword in hand, there was no true defeat. Ye Guying''s eyes, now filled with murderous intent, remained locked onto Yun Xiao.

 Chapter 121 - Im the Primordial Creator Immortal!

    <h4>Chapter 121 - I''m the Primordial Creator Immortal!</h4>

    "Yun Xiao," Ye Guying took a deep breath, his voice dripping with disbelief and a hint of envy, "I have no earthly idea what kind of dumb luck you stumbled upon to find yourself in this position. And I don''t particrly care how many shadowy allies helped you challenge Sword Heaven and the Forbidden Tower. But if you''re so hell-bent on treating me as your archenemy and have chased me this far, then I say... let''s fucking dance...!"

    With the sword in his hand and the power of the Nine Dragons Dantian flowing within him, he felt invincible. It was this very confidence, this audacity, that defined Ye Guying.

    "Thanks to my Nine Dragons Dantian, I soared to the skies after absorbing the power of a Rank 10 Azure Kite from the Sea of Swords. What can a mere mortal like you possibly have that matches my arsenal?" He gloated, his voice filled with pride.

    Just ten days prior, his Sword Aura had already made him the unparalleled master of the Sea of Swords. He was the man of the hour, the talk of the town. His Dantian and his sword skills were unparalleled.

    With a metallic twang, Ye Guying released his Sword Soul, a golden de manifesting atop his palm, enveloped in a whirl of aura. His gaze fixed coldly on Yun Xiao, brimming with arrogance, "Sixty-sixyers of Sword Aura, unmatched across the Sea of Swords. What could you possibly have topare, huh?"

    The Rank 10 Azure Kite was the crowning jewel of his achievements, the source of his pride.

    Ye Guying was a man of unwavering conviction. However, what he hadn''t anticipated was the ripples ofughter echoing through the sea of Sword Cultivators in response to his boast.

    "Ha! The unrivaled master of the Sea of Swords?" Laughter rang out, impossible to suppress.

    The mirth was palpable.

    "Ye Guying..." Zhao Xuanran chuckled, one who knew Yun Xiao all too well and shared a mutual grudge against him, "In the end, aren''t you the real insignificant mortal here?"

    "What now...?" Ye Guying''s face twisted, his pride wounded by the sea of jeers. Seeing this haughty woman still looking at him with such disdain inmed his indignation.

    "Didn''t you send us two warning letters?" Yun Xiao hugged Zhao Xuanran tighter, a smirk ying on his lips. "Sorry, but on my first day at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, I guzzled down all the vintage wine saved for Senior Sister Zhao''s wedding. It was downright delicious. It kept me sipping all night!"

    "You scoundrel!" Zhao Xuanran, unprepared for her so-called junior brother to spill the beans so publicly, blushed a deep shade of wine-red.

    Of course, Ye Guying caught the implication. Over these ten days, he had been obsessing over Zhao Xuanran. He thought those two letters would serve as a deterrent, but now they were being turned into a joke?

    Even the steadiest of men, ridiculed to this degree, would see red. Everything he aspired for during these soaring days had been stealthily snatched away by Yun Xiao.

    "Merely a mortal..." Ye Guying''s anger surged, clouding his judgment.

    "Your Sword Soul," Yun Xiao''sughter vanished, his tone icy, "doesn''t even have a Sword Ring, does it?"

    Even without a physical altercation, the Sword Immortal Ye was already shattered, more so than Yun Xiao had been during his days in the Cloud Nation''s imperial capital¡ªprobably tenfold.

    Enough was enough. This game was losing its vor.

    "Sword Ring?" The mere mention of it deepened Ye Guying''s resentment. Before entering the Forbidden Tower, he was at the Divine Sea Realm and naturally didn''t possess a Sword Ring.

    The Tower Lord had promised him that upon his exit, he would be gifted two six-thousand-year-old Demon Cores. He was eager for them. But when he came out, the Tower Lord was headless. Where were those Demon Cores?

    "Even without a Sword Ring, my sixty-sixyers of Sword Aura can rival any in the heavens! With my Nine Dragons Dantian powering me, I can vanquish..." Ye Guying''s voice trailed off mid-sentence.

    In that heart-stopping moment, his eyes bulged so much they seemed poised to pop from their sockets. Every fiber of his being trembled; his face contorted in shock. He had seen it.

    In Yun Xiao''s hand, a Sword Soul emerged. That azure Sword Soul was enveloped by a hundredyers of Sword Aura.

    Surrounding it, the elements of water, fire, wind, and thunder, each represented by a nine-thousand-year-old Blood Crystal Sword Ring, twined around the Sword Soul like four majestic dragons, their presence overwhelming.

    Any discerning eye could tell the difference in their Sword Souls with just a nce. While Yun Xiao''s soared in the heavens, Ye Guying''sy trampled on the earth.

    "Is the luster of a mere grain of rice attempting to rival the radiance of the moon?" Ancestor Ning scoffed coldly.

    Laughter erupted once again.

    "Ye Guying, Yun Xiao has devoured the entire Azure Kite Sea. What''s the worth of your one Rank 10 Azure Kite?"

    "He took the Sword Lord and Tower Lord''s Sword Rings! You don''t even have a single Sword Ring, yet you dare to boast?"

    Each biting remark pierced Ye Guying''s once-imprable pride, wounding his very soul, leaving it ragged and torn. His trembling eyes, wide with shock, remained fixated on Yun Xiao''s formidable Sword Soul.

    "Four Sword Rings! That''s a Gxy grade Sword Soul, the legendary Big Dipper Sword Emperor!" In that moment, Ye Guying''s heart, spirit, desires, and pride utterly crumbled. He was crushed.

    Aside from his Nine Dragons Dantian, he''d been crushed in every single other aspect? Who was the mere insect And who, the Sword Immortal?

    When Ye Guying looked up again, he saw Yun Xiao, the youth in white, seemingly as if he stood atop the very heavens, looking down on him with a gaze so indifferent it could freeze fire.

    It was this very gaze that catapulted Ye Guying back to that fateful day in the Cloud Nation''s imperial capital. Only this time, he was the mortal, and Yun Xiao, the true Immortal. Not just any Immortal, but the legendary Creator Immortal.

    "Ye Guying," Yun Xiao''s voice resonated. "Tell me, what defines an Immortal?"

    Echoing back to that day in the Cloud Nation, Yun Xiao held his Sword Soul with an air of supreme confidence, overshadowing Ye Guying''s every move. At this moment, Ye Guyingcked even a shred of the undying spirit that once defined Yun Xiao.

    Faced with the question, Ye Guying''s eyes darted away. His face contorted, his grip on the Sword Soul wavered, and he unconsciously took a step back, at aplete loss for words.

    "To... give life for the people, to have a heart aligned with the world... that is what it means to be an immortal," Ye Guying''s voice trembled, converting his Sword Soul to a Palm Sword, his hands clenched tightly as he continued to retreat.

    "And what else?" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled. Amidst the roaring cheers of tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators, he took steps towards Ye Guying, each one akin to stomping on thetter''s very heart, grinding it over and over.

    "To vanquish demons, to bless humanity, to... to ensure the safety and uphold the way of the heavens," Ye Guying finally uttered, looking at Yun Xiao with gritted teeth. "Yun Xiao! Your Dao has conquered me. I willingly submit to you, ready to serve you henceforth."

    He wasn''t foolish. Even without a battle, he knew that if they were to sh, his fate was sealed.

    "Hahaha!" With a sudden burst ofughter that bordered on maniacal, Yun Xiao red fiercely at Ye Guying. "No!" he bellowed, voice resonating with newfound rity, "From the moment I marched from the Azure Spirit Sword Sect to the Forbidden Tower, I had an epiphany! You might be right. With a single stroke of my sword, I could bring the heavens and earth to their knees, make every living being prostrate before me in awe. That''s what makes an unrivaled Creator Immortal!"

    Without another word, the Flying Sword in Yun Xiao''s hand lunged violently forward. It wasn¡¯t Rainbow Through the Sun. Instead, it was the Ten Step Scale of Azure Spirit!

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Sixteen ringing sounds echoed. Legends spoke of the young Emperor of the Yun Nation who perished at sixteen, executed by a lofty Immortal for harboring demons andmitting heinous deeds. His name was tainted for eternity. And now, these sixteen resonating sword strikes embodied Yun Xiao''s most profound technique of his mortal life. Beyond the animosity, they held the boundless spirit and righteousness in Yun Xiao''s heart.

    Three long months! From veneration to death, roles reversed. The Heaven Burial Sword Soul, like a radiant bird, produced sixteen beams of light, attacking Ye Guying in the blink of an eye.

    Ye Guying attempted to rise to the heavens, only his Sword Aura and Dantian keeping pace. Yun Xiao had already surpassed him by leaps and bounds in terms of swordsmanship. Confronted with the sixteen-step Ten Step Scale, terror consumed Ye Guying, leading him to sh wildly. Yet, not a single strike hit its mark!

    The storm of nine-thousand-year Sword Rings suppressed his powers in an instant.

    <i>SLASH SLASH SLASH! </i>Blue shes zipped past, slicing through his hands and legs.

    "Ah!!!" Ye Guying screamed in sheer agony. Both hands, all three legs, severed cleanly from his body. Those limbs soared into the air, finally embedding themselves onto the Forbidden Tower.

    His body, now reduced to just a head and torso, plummeted into a pool of blood¡ªa truly gruesome sight. It was a defeat by a single sword stroke, reminiscent of that fateful day in the Cloud Nation. But today, the roles were reversed.

    Once, Ye Guying had dominated Yun Xiao. But now, Yun Xiao wouldn''t even respect himself if he let Ye Guyingnd a single hit.

    "Who''s the mere mortal now? And who''s the true Immortal?" Even without striking, Yun Xiao knew the answer in his heart. Was Ye Guying considered almighty? His Sword Ring, non-existent. His techniques, garbage. His swordy, equally pathetic! When they truly shed, Ye Guying was inferior even to the Sword Lord.

    "Ye Guying, with your paltry Seed of Creation, you dare to call yourself my destined rival?"

    As Blue Star and Red Moon once said, Yun Xiao was the reincarnated Creator Immortal. A thousand Ye Guyings couldn''t block his path.

    Within the pool of blood, Yun Xiao stepped on Ye Guying''s head, prying open his mouth with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "WHY...? AGGHHH! WHY DIDN''T YOU FINISH ME OFF IN ONE STROKE?" Ye Guying, his face twisted in agony and now at rock bottom, wailed at Yun Xiao.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao, pulling out a bottle and sneering indifferently, retorted, "Even though I look down upon you, I always repay my debts. You jeopardized the lives of my Cloud Nation''s people. Did you think I''d let you off easily?"

    The moment he ground Ye Guying underfoot, the overwhelming righteousness in Yun Xiao''s heart met no resistance and exploded forth.

    Ye Guying might not have been his destiny, but he was definitely Yun Xiao''s inner demon. Now, with this demon shattered as easily as one might crush an insect, who in this vast universe could stand against his sword?

    His voice filled with terror, Ye Guying eximed, "W-What is that...?" His eyes trembled as they fixed on the jade bottle in Yun Xiao''s hand.

    "A delightful little present," Yun Xiao replied with a smirk. Without another word, he poured the Heart-Eating Gu, enough for ten people, straight into Ye Guying''s mouth. He then patted him on the cheek nonchntly, "You best hang in there. I n to drag you back to my homnd, so you can apologize to my people."

    The death of countless citizens, the disgrace brought upon the Yun''s ancestors! Yun Xiao vowed to parade this once haughty sword riding <i>Immortal</i> in front of everyone, to clear the name of the mortal Emperor and atone for all past sins.

    Seeing Yun Xiao effortlessly disable Ye Guying with a single sword strike, the tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators present were thoroughly convinced.

    "True Immortal above the clouds, the Sword Emperor of our age!" Led by the Ning Family, they prostrated themselves, their foreheads dripping with sweat, voices hoarse from shouting. Fear within their hearts crawled like venomous insects.

    The name Yun Xiao resonated across the Sword Realm. This was the true domination of the Sea of Swords by a lone individual.

    Apart from the Sword Heart gifted by the Spirit Treasure Walk, Yun Xiao stood alone, effortlessly navigating between the two major overlords and overturning the Sea of Swords on his own.

    "With a flip of his hand, hemands the clouds, with another, he brings forth the rain. A single sword that reigns supreme. Who canpare?" Ning Que, who had lost his son, had no choice but to push past his grief and rally behind Yun Xiao. That was the power of influence.

    Despite their initial misguided alignment, the Ning Family had, through a shred of conscience, shifted their allegiance to Yun Xiao, proving that those who read the winds of change were indeed the wisest.

    Now, with Yun Xiao triumphant and stepping on Ye Guying, he turned to Ning Yan and said, "From today, all the possessions of the deceased belong to me. You''ll be in charge of collecting and organizing them."

    "...Yes!" Ning Yan could never have imagined a day when she would be ordered around by Yun Xiao. But even more surprising was how willingly she epted it.

    "What''s the future of the Sea of Swords? Me. No more Sword Heaven, no more Forbidden Tower! Any objections?" Yun Xiao''s icy gaze swept over the crowd.

    "To the Lord of the Sword Realm, we pledge our allegiance!" Tens of thousands cried out in unison, trembling.

    Yun Xiao said no more. He grasped Ye Guying by the neck and hoisted him aloft. By then, Ye Guying''s face was a sickly pale, foam dripped from his lips, and it felt like a million insects crawled beneath his skin. The worst torture imaginable had only just begun.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, will youe home with me?" Yun Xiao asked the jade-like beauty beside him.

    "Of course..." Zhao Xuanran was eager to witness the vindication of the so-called little despot.

    Just then, Yun Xiao sensed the delicate fragrance of an approaching presence. Lifting his gaze, he saw a young girl in a white dress wearing a white tiger mask, as if she had emerged from the mists, standing before him.

    "Leave for the Heavenly Realm tomorrow. Join the battle and carry the weight of all Sword Cultivators." The girl''s voice was soft and tender.

    "Got it." Yun Xiao nodded. The path of the Seeds of Creation was the journey of his life, and Ye Guying''s Nine Dragons Dantian was the most crucial starting point.

    The girl in the white dress looked deeply into his eyes and said, "Once you''ve finished with worldly matters, find me in the Divine Dawn Pavilion tonight. There''s something crucial we need to address before heading to the Heavenly Realm."

    "..." Yun Xiao was momentarily at a loss for words.

    Blue Star lit up with excitement. "Can''t hold back any longer! It''s the first time!"

    Red Moon was ecstatic. "Wonderful! Tonight, he''ll get to taste a new delight!"

 Chapter 122 - Vindication at Last!

    <h4>Chapter 122 - Vindication at Last!</h4>

    In the thousand mortal nations, there was the Cloud Nation and within it, the Imperial Capital. The Autumn Festival was in full swing. The streets, buzzing with excitement, were considerably more alive than on ordinary days. The locals whispered excitedly amongst themselves.

    "Just two days ago, a three-hundred-year-old Blood Demon appeared in Mobei City. Hundreds fell victim to its bloodlust, drained until not a drop of blood remained."

    "Thank goodness for that Immortal woman who descended from the heavens and took care of that demon. If she hadn¡¯t, I dread to think that tens of thousands in the city would¡¯ve perished.¡±

    "Such troubling times we live in, with demons roaming freely."

    Even with the Blood Demon vanquished, a palpable unease hung in the air. Who knew where the next demon might spring from, bringing misery to the innocent?

    ¡°I heard that after that Immortal woman defeated the demon, she got into a skirmish with another Immortal."

    "Mortal minds like ours can hardly fathom the affairs of the divine."

    ¡°The Autumn Festival is the time to honor the souls we¡¯ve lost. Let¡¯s head to the Heaven Martial Gate!¡±

    The Heaven Martial Gate, the grand entrance to the pce and the very ce where Yun Xiao once met his tragic end.

    Within a tower overlooking the massive gate, three figures convened. Two of them, standing tall, were Zhao Xuanran and Shangguan Yu.

    Before them sat a middle-aged man in azure robes, his legs crossed in meditation. The powerful energy of the Origin Core Realm coursed through him, manifesting as thick clouds enveloping his body. As moments passed, a flush of vitality returned to his pallid face, his life force growing stronger by the second.

    Suddenly, he extended his hand, revealing his palm. From its center emanated a dark Sword Soul, which was once marred with numerous cracks. Now, these fissures began to mend, as if they were wounds slowly healing.

    "Almost there!" Shangguan Yu''s voice quivered, tears threatening to spill from her eyes.

    Both she and Zhao Xuanran understood the immense struggle the man before them had endured over the past three years. Surviving on sheer willpower, he had persisted until now.

    How much suffering had he borne, simply to live and answer to the people?

    Zhao Xuanran bit her lip, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. She nced back at the young man in white robes. He stood facing away from them, looking out over the city walls at his nation and his people. The wind ruffled his long hair, casting him in a serene light.

    "Yun Xiao, my father awakens," Zhao Xuanran softly called.

    Turning around, Yun Xiao covered the distance to the man in azure in two swift strides. Just as he approached, the man opened his eyes.

    "Master," Yun Xiao rushed to his side, joining Zhao Xuanran in supporting him, one on each side.

    The azure-robed man took a deep breath. "Alive!" His eyes, brimming with a myriad of emotions, eventually settled into an appreciative gaze on Yun Xiao. "Child, I heard everything you''ve done. In this lifetime, being blessed with a disciple like you... it makes me wonder what great deeds I aplished in my past life to deserve this."

    "Being part of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect is my... culinary delight... no, I mean, my good fortune." The mood, so thick and intense, was suddenly cut by Yun Xiao''s humorous gaffe. A result of the incessant brainwashing he''d undergone. Thankfully, the other two didn''t catch his slip!

    "Even without direct teachings, your integrity and character have guided my path and aligned my intentions. I owe you a debt of gratitude," Yun Xiao hastily added. After speaking, he nced at Zhao Xuanran, seeing her eyes shimmer with tears and joy.

    "Integrity without power is just mediocrity! Fortunately, you stepped in and set things right, restoring honor to our Sword Realm," Zhao Jianxing said, grasping Yun Xiao''s hands, his gaze intense. "While my teachings are limited and I cannot gift you the vast techniques of the Immortal Dao, I do have some influence in the thousand mortal nations. Today, I''ll officially recognize your status!"

    With that, he stepped forward, yanking Ye Guying from a corner and, with his Sovereign Sword, soared into the heavens!

    Following Zhao Jianxing''s lead, Shangguan Yu too propelled herself into the sky on her sword.

    The two swords whizzed together, ascending above the royal pce. The dragged-along Ye Guying was a pitiful sight¡ªlimbless, pallid, riddled with wormholes. His spirit had been crying out for who knows how long. Now, his eyes were lifeless, barely holding onto a thread of life.

    It was the Autumn Festival, the liveliest day in the imperial capital of Cloud Nation!

    The very moment the two Sword Cultivators pierced the clouds and descended above the pce, the entire city erupted in excitement.

    "Two immortals!"

    "Quick, kneel and worship!"

    Suddenly, throngs of citizens rushed towards the pce. Overwhelmed with devotion, they fell to their knees, forming an unstoppable tide.

    The age-old tradition across countless nations was clear. In times of suffering caused by demons, honor those who wield their swords against such evils!

    Before long, virtually the whole city gathered inside and outside the pce, an ocean of people everywhere. The citizens knelt in reverence, and even General Yun Hai, the temporary ruler of the pce, emerged with his officials, prostrating themselves.

    "The Immortals have graced Cloud Nation! We, humble folk, pay our respects to the two revered beings!"

    Just a nce at the ages of Zhao Jianxing and Shangguan Yu was enough to recognize them as elite Sword Cultivators.

    Warmth and fervor filled the citizens'' hearts!

    "Please, everyone, rise!" Zhao Jianxing''s voice boomed from the vast heavens.

    The pce''s denizens blinked in disbelief.

    "Rise, all of you?" They thought they''d misheard.

    They didn''t dare defy.

    "Stand up!" Zhao Jianxing''s voice rose inmand.

    "At once!" In unison, the people of the city scrambled to their feet, some gazing up at the two on their Sovereign Swords with an expression of awe, their hearts filled with reverence.

    "My good people, my name is Zhao Jianxing, Sect Leader of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect," Zhao Jianxing introduced himself.

    The city buzzed with murmurs. "Sword Immortal Zhao!"

    Even in the remote Cloud Nation, the legend of Zhao Jianxing echoed like a thunderp. Tales of his exploits had transformed into myths, spreading across the thousand mortal nations.

    For the masses, he was the divine leader, a beacon of hope.

    "Sword Immortal Zhao gracing Cloud Nation is the greatest blessing of our lifetimes!" The emotions overwhelmed General Yun Hai, and he struggled not to kneel again.

    A chorus of voices rose in jubtion.

    "Silence, please!" Zhao Jianxing''s voice rang out, sharp as the sh of swords. "I havee to Cloud Nation today with an important announcement."

    The murmurs ceased. Important news? The crowd''s emotions ran high as they dared to nce towards the sky.

    And then, Zhao Jianxing held up Ye Guying for all to see. His long, disheveled hair, his robes stained with blood, and he was still under the agony of a myriad of bugs gnawing at his heart!

    "Do any of you recognize this man?" Zhao Jianxing inquired.

    The gathered crowd stared, trying to ce the familiar face of the young man.

    Suddenly, a cry of recognition rang out across the city.

    "That''s Sword Immortal Ye!" The deration came thundering from General Yun Hai.

    "Sword Immortal Ye?" At the mention of this name, the imperial capital buzzed with incredulity.

    In all of Cloud Nation, who hadn''t heard tales of Sword Immortal Ye? He''d descended from the skies one day, ying serpent demons and toppling the little tyrant Emperor, restoring peace and order to the realm.

    "How did Sword Immortal Ye meet such a grim fate, even losing his limbs?"

    The citizens felt as though they''d been struck by lightning. They stood agog, tongues tied, words failing them.

    "You all recognize him? Perfect!" Zhao Jianxing''s eyes darted across the crowd, his voice dripping gravity. "Now, everyone, listen closely to what I have to say."

    "Yes!" came the trembling acknowledgment from the popce.

    Taking a deep breath, Zhao Jianxing red at Ye Guying and announced loudly, "This man is Ye Guying, a disciple of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Over three months ago, he conspired with serpent demons to install Jiang Yue''s family on Cloud Nation''s throne, bringing catastrophe upon the people and framing the young Emperor Yun Xiao. Hemitted unforgivable sins! Such actions disgrace the reputation of Sword Cultivators and betray the trust of themon folk. He deserves nothing less than death! The entirety of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect has decided to mete out the harshest punishment to this traitor. Jiang Yue, who shared in his crimes, has already been executed. Her tortured soul will burn for thirty years before finding release."

    The weight of his words hung heavily over the city, echoing like thunder. When the rumbling ceased, a hush descended upon the capital thatsted for what felt like an eternity.

    This revtion was beyond anything the city''s residents could have ever imagined.

    Many among them had personally witnessed the Sword Immortal''s descent mere months prior, watching as he eliminated the serpent demons, overthrew the unjust ruler, and altered the course of history. But now, with Sword Immortal Zhao''s promation, who could doubt?

    There Sword Immortal Ye was, writhing pitifully, wailing in Sword Immortal Zhao''s grasp.

    "Sword Immortal Ye, colluding with serpent demons and framing His Majesty..."

    At that moment, memories of the young man who''d died standing filled their minds. In an instant, the entire city''s hearts trembled, tears streaming down countless faces.

    General Yun Hai''s face flushed crimson. He fell to his knees, his head thudding against the ground in anguished kowtows. With a tormented howl, he proimed, "Let the heavens bear witness! The Yun Family has always been upright and honorable. Generation after generation, we''ve been loyal and just! Immortals bear witness, our young Emperor Yun Xiao has never let his people down, nor dishonored our ancestors!"

    Hearing these heart-wrenching words, the people felt as if they''d been gut-punched. Tears drenched their garments, and words failed them. Just moments ago, they had branded that young man with the title, Little Tyrant.

    But now, they realized he''d risked his youth for the nation, ying demons and monsters with an iron resolve. He''d been framed by Jiang Yue and Sword Immortal Ye and met his end on that perilous path. What a grave injustice! Condemned and reviled by the masses, what profound sorrow did he bear?

    "We''ve wronged a just Emperor," they whispered.

    Though they had once stood tall, in that moment, they knelt again. This time, however, they weren''t bowing to any Immortal. They faced the pce, the ce where Yun Xiao had met his demise.

    "We were blinded and misled by those traitors. You''re not at fault. We failed in our duties," Zhao Jianxing dered. He hadn''t witnessed the injustice firsthand but could feel the weight of that day''s resentment. Now, at longst, the injustice had beenid bare. In the hearts of Cloud Nation''s people, that young man was finally bathed in the light of vindication.

    Zhao Jianxing looked down, and there, on the walls of the Heaven Martial Gate, stood Yun Xiao, d in white, silently witnessing everything. He hadn''t revealed himself or told the citizens he was still alive. Perhaps, in his mind, the young Emperor was already gone. From now on, he''d be a Sword Cultivator with aspirations that reached the heavens.

    How long had he waited for this moment? Even if his reputation was tarnished and he faced utter defeat, he could bear it. But what about the generations of humiliation of disgrace to his Yun Family ancestors? That was uneptable!

    Standing amidst the gusts, a hint of red rimmed his eyes. Waves of emotions, vast and tumultuous as an ocean, surged within him. Yet, at the corner of his lips, a faint smile yed¡ªa reflection of his newfound peace.

    "Junior Brother Yun." Beside him stood a woman in a ck gown, looking radiant. She reached out and held Yun Xiao''s hand tightly, bringing a warmth that felt so uniquely human amidst the cool breeze.

    "Senior Sister Zhao," Yun Xiao responded, gripping her hand with equal intensity. Gazing deeply into her eyes, he whispered, "Having you by my side at this moment means the world."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Although the Immortal had departed, a stillness hung over the Cloud Nation.

    "Transport His Majesty''s sacred body to the Yun Family''s ancestral tomb!" Yun Hai, usually a stoic man, had his eyes red and swollen from tears. Inside the tomb, he personally interred Yun Xiao. The body, having been left unattended for over three months, was feared to be in a state of decay.

    Upon finishing the rites, Yun Hai, apanied by the old retainers of the Yun Family, bowed deeply three times, then knelt and knocked their heads to the ground nine times. Tears streamed down like rain, mourning the unjust fate of the young Emperor.

    "Justice has been served, but he''s gone. How can our hearts ever find peace?" Sighing deeply, Yun Hai walked into the burial chamber. At its center stood a lone golden coffin, its silence profound and resonating.

    "Everyone out. I''d like a moment with him," he ordered. Once alone, he sat by the golden coffin, and no longer able to hold back, his sobs filled the chamber.

    Suddenly, footsteps echoed from outside.

 Chapter 123 - Mortal Scaling the Heavens!

    <h4>Chapter 123 - Mortal Scaling the Heavens!</h4>

    "Didn''t I tell you all to get out?" Yun Hai thundered.

    "Old Hai." A young voice, filled with yful mischief, rang out right in front of him. Yun Hai froze, his gaze slowly lifting in stunned wonder. Before him stood a young man in white robes, radiant as the morning star and eyes deep as the cosmos, looking every bit the deity.

    "You called me what?" Yun Hai muttered, his voice barely more than a whisper.

    "Old Hai, for someone as burly as you, you sure can''t hold your liquor," the youth said with a grin, recalling a familiar joke between them.

    In that very moment, a tremor shook Yun Hai. His eyes widened, tears gushing forth. "Your Majesty?!" He dropped to his knees with a thud. "You''ve returned from the afterlife, but why the change in appearance?"

    "Afterlife?" The youthzily took a seat beside Yun Hai, giving him a yful tap on the head. He then produced two sks of wine, passing one to Yun Hai.

    "Life''s trials are plenty, why not get drunk a bit?" the young man suggested.

    "Drunk..." Yun Hai''s hand trembled as he epted the sk, their fingers briefly touching. tion surged in his eyes, "Your Majesty, you''re alive! Truly alive!"

    "Shush," Yun Xiao raised his sk, "All of life''s troubles can be drowned with a good drink."

    "Drink! I''ll drink!" Yun Hai may have been a lightweight, but now, he couldn''t tear his eyes away from Yun Xiao, eagerly gulping down the wine.

    "From now on, the Cloud Nation is yours to govern. If you falter, if the people suffer, I''ll have you answer to militaryw. Understood?" Yun Xiao dered, fixing his gaze on Yun Hai.

    "Fear not, Your Majesty! I shall guard this nation with my life!" Yun Hai dered, his face flushed from the alcohol.

    "You carry the bloodline of the Yun Family. In the future, when you ascend to the throne, may it pass on for generations toe," Yun Xiao continued.

    "Y-yes! Yes! Yes!" Yun Hai''s tears mingled with the wine as they streamed down his face. "And what about you, Your Majesty?"

    "I''ve been reborn as an Immortal, busy trying to poke holes in the sky!" Yun Xiao quipped with a chuckle.

    "Ha! What a twist of fate! Good deeds do get rewarded!" Drowning his emotions in wine, Yun Hai could barely take another gulp before he keeled over.

    "Consider it all a dream," Yun Xiao softly said, giving Yun Hai''s rosy ear a gentle pinch. "The Cloud Nation is now yours, old pal."

    Yun Xiao rose to his feet and began to step away, but after a few paces, he abruptly stopped. His gaze intense, he approached a golden coffin and, with trembling hands, pushed open its lid.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>His pupils contracted sharply. The coffin was empty.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Azure Spirit Sword Sect and the Sword Pavilion, the Azure Spirit Cauldron''s mes zed high while mournful souls wailed upon the Blue Drop g. Regret? Toote now.

    At that moment, Ning Yan came from the Sea of Swords, handing a Pouch of Holding¡ªas big as a hill¡ªto Yun Xiao.

    "180,000,000 Spirit Stones, 8,000 Heavenly Origin pills, various armors, daoist spells, and sword techniques. This includes the Star grade Forbidden Sword technique from the Forbidden Tower. Please verify," Ning Yan said reverently, offering everything with both hands.

    Without counting, Yun Xiao casually tucked the pouch into his robes. "While I''m in the Heavenly Realm, the Sea of Swords will be overseen by your Ning Family. Protect the Azure Spirit. If anything goes wrong, your family will answer for it."

    "Understood!" Ning Yan nodded, her face pale. She realized that with Sword Heaven and Forbidden Tower in ruins, in the absence of tigers in the mountains, her Ning Family could y king. Essentially, they profited, all thanks to Azure Spirit''s influence.

    "Yun Xiao," she began cautiously, "there''s something else you should know."

    "Go on."

    "Now that both the Sword Lord and the Tower Lord are dead, the treaty signed by Xiao Changtian is null and void. If you head to the Heavenly Realm, I fear the demons of the Grand Wastnd will seize the chance to wreak havoc in the Sword Realm," she stated gravely.

    "I''ll handle it. Your family needn''t worry," Yun Xiao replied nonchntly.

    "Not worry?" Ning Yan bit her lip, "Rumor has it there''s a fearsome young fox demon out there. If he allies with the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord..."

    Yun Xiao paid her no heed. Three figures emerged from the Grand Hall¡ªZhao Jianxing, Zhao Xuanran, and Shangguan Yu.

    Ning Yan''s eyes lifted slowly, resting on them. It had been twenty-two years since shestid eyes on Zhao Jianxing. And now, to reunite under such circumstances... Their gazes met, a tremor in their hearts. They were no longer the impetuous youth of yore.

    She remembered her father''s and brother''s admonitions. With the Sword Lord gone, what she had pursued doggedly for two decades had evaporated like a mirage. Now, her own flesh and blood stood before her. With Yun Xiao bridging the gap, she had prepared herself for this moment.

    "Jianxing..." Ning Yan''s voice quivered as she uttered the unfamiliar name.

    "You should leave," Zhao Jianxing responded sinctly.

    "Pardon?" Ning Yan blinked in confusion.

    "Azure Spirit doesn''t wee you," Zhao Xuanran stated, tugging at Shangguan Yu''s sleeve. True, Shangguan Yu might not have possessed Ning Yan''s radiant beauty, but she had waited faithfully for Zhao Jianxing for all those twenty-two years.

    "Oh," Ning Yan forced a smile, her eyes flicking to Shangguan Yu, but her heart shattered into a million pieces. With Yun Xiao''s entrance, all her past glories seemed like jokes in hindsight. Even Zhao Jianxing, the man she once scorned, didn''t seem to be as enamored with her as she''d believed. It was just a fleeting infatuation.

    "Xuanran..." Yet, seeing her in the flesh, that innate bond, thicker than water, stirred unfamiliar emotions in Ning Yan, making her heart waver.

    "I won''t see you off," Zhao Xuanran dered. For twenty-two years, she hadn''t even known her own name. How could she forgive that? The idea of a reunion was unbearable. A joyful family of three? That ship had sailed.

    "I''m sorry. I failed you," Ning Yan whispered, her figure receding into the distance, steeped in mncholy.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Beneath the Azure Spirit Cauldron, Yun Xiao forcibly dragged Ye Guying''s face towards the Bluedrop g. "See that? Your entire family, hundreds strong, including Jiang Yue, are all right here," he said with a cold smirk.

    The bones within Ye Guying''s sword-arm had long been stripped away. Now, the Heart-Eating Gu feasted on his organs. Were he not at death''s door, his screams would''ve been hauntingly loud. He didn''t even have the right to scream! Endless torment, agony so profound, death would''ve been a sweet release.

    Within the Bluedrop g, the tormented souls of Ye Tiance, Jiang Yue, and others, upon seeing the even more wretched state of Ye Guying, wailed and howled beneath the cauldron''s fiery ze.

    "Jiang Yue, take a good look. This is your beloved Senior Brother Ye," Yun Xiao taunted, gripping Ye Guying''s throat and hoisting him up.

    Inside the g, the spirit of the young girl crumbled to dust.

    "Please... end it... quickly," Ye Guying begged, using thest of his strength.

    "You have the audacity to ask?" Yun Xiao chuckled. "Three months ago, you gave me a swift end, but today, I won''t grant you the same luxury."

    Not just that, Yun Xiao had something special prepared.

    "Ye Guying, your biggest pride was your Nine Dragons Dantian, wasn''t it?" Yun Xiao sneered.

    "You..." Ye Guying''s eyes widened in horror.

    "Here''s a little surprise for you." Yun Xiao reached in, tearing through Ye Guying''s flesh and grasping his Dantian.

    The scream that followed was deafening.

    Ye Guying''s agony surged through every part of him, producing a cry so pained, it could make the stars weep.

    "My Nine Dragons Dantian..."

    Golden shadows of dragons, illuminated and ethereal, flooded into Yun Xiao''s body, merging with his Dantian. They triggered an intense shift in the magic power of Yun Xiao''s Primordial Void Technique.

    "Now it''s mine." Yun Xiao''s voice stretched out with pleasure. "You brothers are truly my lucky stars. Your younger brother''s Golden Dantian set me on the path of cultivation, while your Nine Dragons Dantian... it''ll shoot me straight to the title of the top Immortal in the heavens!"

    As the Nine Dragons Dantian settled into its new form, Yun Xiao felt that by nightfall, he would ascend to the Sovereign Dragon Realm, sprouting nine true dragons of magic power, just like Ye Guying.

    "You managed to snatch the Dao Seed Talent..." Ye Guying''s body and soul once again tore apart, and this was the most excruciating of all. A gut-wrenching fear consumed him. Yun Xiao''s terrifying abilities felt godlike, grinding him to less than dust.

    "How did a mere mortal like you achieve all this?" Ye Guying''s voice trembled with terror.

    Tossing him to the ground, Yun Xiao pressed his foot against Ye Guying''s head, grinding it into the dirt. His eyes shimmered as if he was the embodiment of a true Immortal. Gazing down disdainfully, he coldly remarked, "Ye Guying, you don''t deserve to know."

    Without another nce, Yun Xiao turned to Zhao Jianxing standing before the Grand Hall and instructed, "Master, once he sumbs to the Heart-Eating Gu, imprison his soul in the Bluedrop g. Let him reunite with his family."

    "Of course!" Zhao Jianxing nodded, his eyes filled with vengeance. How could he forget the revenge owed to the Seven Prodigies of Sword Pavilion?

    "Here''s some Spirit Stones, Heavenly Origin Pills, Divine Sea Pills, along with several treasures,bat techniques, demon bones, and some business contracts from the Sea of Swords." Yun Xiao handed over several Pouches of Holding.

    These resources could bolster the might of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. They were talented sword cultivators, only evercking resources.

    "30,000,000 Spirit Stones..." Zhao Jianxing''s eyes bulged in shock. He''d never seen such wealth in his entire life. Add to it the other treasures inside, and he was left utterly dumbstruck.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, "If it''s not enough, I might just have to raid the Heavenly Realm to get more."

    "It''s more than enough!" Zhao Jianxing hastily collected the offerings. Watching his swift moves, Yun Xiao realized where his Senior Sister Zhao had learned her craft. Talk about not being shy!

    "I''ve assigned a demon-ying mission to the Sea of Swords. Starting today, tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators from there will aid the Azure Spirit Sword Sect in purging the mundane world of demons. We won''t stop until not a single demon roams the thousand mortal nations," Yun Xiao dered.

    Zhao Jianxing nodded, "It''s a noble cause." He then furrowed his brows, "But what about the Grand Wastnd Demon Lord? What will we do about him?"

    "He''s nearing his end," Yun Xiao simply stated.

    "What?" Zhao Jianxing gaped.

    "It''s nothing," Yun Xiao replied with a sly smile, "All I''m saying is, starting today, without the Grand Wastnd Pact, I alone will suppress the demons of the Sword Realm. Who would dare defy us?"

    "Alright..." Zhao Jianxing stared at the young man, lost in a sea of emotions. After a moment, he suddenly inquired, "Are you taking Lil Ran with you to the Sword Realm?"

    Yun Xiao gazed towards the Little Cloud Residence and whispered, "I''ll go find her."

    Zhao Jianxing nodded, then with a hint of warning added, "Before you leave, remember not to drink with her!"

    "Damn!" Just as Yun Xiao was about to mount his Sovereign Sword, he almost tumbled off. ncing back, he found Zhao Jianxing maintaining a straight face as if he''d made no jest.

    Yun Xiao''s embarrassment faded. With a hum, he took to the skies, soaring high above the Azure Spirit Horizon. The horizon''s twilight painted a vivid scarlet, reminiscent of a night that intoxicated the soul, lingering in memory long after.

    Dusk had settled. The time for the meeting at the Divine Dawn Pavilion in the Spirit Treasure Walk was swiftly approaching.

    Yun Xiao cast his gaze across the vast expanse of the heavens and the endless earthly realm. The sky was awash in the breathtaking hues of the sunset, with streaks of brilliant red stretching for miles.

    Beneath that canopy of colors, a quaint courtyard glowed warmly, the cozy lights of earthly life beckoning him. The scent of food wafted through the air, mingled with the unmistakable aroma of wine and, of course, the intoxicating fragrance of a beautiful woman.

    The Little Cloud Residence! Osmanthus trees, fish swimming in the pond, wine on the table, jadenterns flickering. And the warm, gentle soul of the mortal world. Always there. Forever present.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Sea of Swords, Spirit Treasure Walk, and the Divine Dawn Pavilion.

    Under the twilight, mists from the Azure Kite Sea settled, enveloping the Divine Dawn Pavilion, transforming it into a realm of enchantment.

    On a mist-swathed balcony stood a wooden bathtub, sizable enough for two. The tub brimmed with a luminous white liquid, its surface strewn with pink petals.

    Ripples disturbed the calm of the bath, revealing the soft, porcin back of a young woman. She rested her delicate arms on the edge of the tub, her deep eyes lost in the sea of white mist, a rosy haze casting a gentle veil over her face. She waited, in serene anticipation.

 Chapter 124 - How Can One Become an Immortal Without Severing Ties to the Mundane?

    <h4>Chapter 124 - How Can One Be an Immortal Without Severing Ties to the Mundane?</h4>

    "Senior Sister Zhao." Yun Xiao''s Sovereign Sword arched downward, the sword''s tip spun, and in a graceful swirl of his white robes, hended with an easy elegance. Beneath the osmanthus tree in the courtyard, a woman in a ck gown sat leisurely, bathed in moonlight, quietly awaiting his arrival.

    On the nearby stone table, a freshly made white robey folded alongside several jugs of rich wine...

    Upon Yun Xiao''s arrival, she stood, her steps graceful as a lotus flower, she approached him. Her eyes lowered to the stains on his white robe and whispered, "Change into this. I made a new one for you."

    "Mmm!" Yun Xiao nodded, chuckling, "With all the fighting, my white robes get bloody too easily. Perhaps I should switch to ck."

    "That won''t do. Pure white suits you best," Zhao Xuanran said, her beautiful eyes meeting his. In her eyes, no matter how fierce Yun Xiao became, he was always an unblemished, brave young man.

    "Change in your room," Zhao Xuanran advised.

    "I can change right here!" Yun Xiao dered, about to tear off his robe.

    "Absolutely not!" She red at him.

    Reluctantly, Yun Xiao retreated to his room, donning another white robe made by his senior sister. Gazing at his reflection, he couldn''t help but exim, "Damn, I look invincible in this!"

    "Even cows would lose their minds over such beauty," Blue Star remarked with a sigh.

    "Woman cows!" Red Moon corrected.

    Stepping out of his dwelling, sure enough, the gleam in Zhao Xuanran''s eyes brightened.

    The courtyard was awash in moonlight,nterns casting their warm glow. The young man seemed to step right out of a painting, merging with the world around him.

    "Care for a drink?" Zhao Xuanran asked, crossing her legs, sitting atop the stone table. Illuminated by thentern''s radiant light, her face was faintly flushed, her figure enveloped as if by a dreamy mist.

    "Cheers! Let''s drink until our sorrows are forgotten," Yun Xiao dered, taking a seat next to Zhao Xuanran at the stone table.

    Behind them stood the jugs of wine, and in front sprawled the misty mountains and rivers of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. The enchanting moonlight painted a serenendscape, untouched by time.

    With the gentle breeze and the moon overhead, the scene was punctuated by a beautiful woman and a passionate young man.

    "If you''re leaving, sip lightly," Zhao Xuanran cautioned. Turning, she fetched two jugs, cing one in Yun Xiao''s hand. She gave a yful wink, teasing, "Remember, flying on your sword drunk might feel great tonight, but you''ll regret it when you crash into a random grave tomorrow."

    With that, she raised her jug, her eyes fixed on him, "A toast, Yun Xiao, for all you''ve done."

    "A toast for me?" he asked, arching an eyebrow.

    "For your feats against the demons and evil petty men, and for your resolve to clear your name in this life," she replied with a soft smile, her eyes narrowing into crescents. Who said older sisters couldn''t be adorable? At this moment, with her carefree demeanor, she was the embodiment of charm. Herughter and voice radiated a warmth that could melt the coldest of hearts.

    "Then I''ll toast to you too!"

    Their jugs clinked. Yun Xiao lifted his drink and downed it in one go.

    The potent drink immediately went to his head, setting his mind aze. He turned to gaze at the woman beside him, bathed in moonlight, her beauty unreal in her dark dress. "Senior Sister Zhao, I want to take you to the Heavenly Realm. Wherever I go, I want you with me."

    "That''s not possible," she replied, setting down her jug and looking at him earnestly.

    "Not possible?" Yun Xiao hadn''t expected such a decisive refusal. A hint of sadness appeared in his eyes. "In this vast world, I''m alone, save for you..."

    "Shush." She silenced him with a gentle touch to his lips. "Worry not," she whispered, "you have an indomitable spirit. Your unique aura will attract many sincere people. You won''t be alone on your journey."

    "Why won''t youe with me?" Yun Xiao wasn''t thinking of the future; he was lost in the present.

    Zhao Xuanran was taken aback by Yun Xiao''s fervor, pausing momentarily. She tenderly grasped Yun Xiao''s hand, holding his gaze for what seemed like an eternity. Then, with a hint of mncholy, she whispered, "You have your path to the Heavenly Realm, and I have my moonlit wine. Your future isn''t bound to this realm, while I''m but a fleeting insect in this worldly dust. Why pine for me?"

    Yun Xiao faltered. Mortal, Immortal, Creator Immortal... was he truly just a mortal or was he the Creator Immortal? For the first time, he felt torn.

    "Yun Xiao," she began, her voice soft and gentle, "as cultivators, our hearts transcend the worldly, our thoughts aim for the vast heavens, and our intent aligns with the cosmic will. Why be anchored by worldly concerns? If fate wills it, our paths will cross again. You have heavenly ambitions; don''t get ensnared by mere earthly sentiments." Her soft-spoken words flowed like a refreshing spring, pouring into Yun Xiao''s soul.

    Mortals often found it hard to escape the snare of emotions. But did a Creator Immortal even know what emotion was? Yun Xiao, lost in his thoughts, stared at the radiant beauty before him.

    "Go," she said, adjusting his cor and yfully pinching his face. "That holy maiden awaits you at the Divine Dawn Pavilion. Don''t keep a smitten heart waiting."

    With a deep sigh, Yun Xiao replied, "I wish to stay here with you a bit longer."

    "How long?" she inquired.

    "Until dawn," he responded.

    She shook her head, "She''s expecting you tonight..."

    Before she could finish, Yun Xiao handed her a sk of wine, shing a smile, "Drink?"

    "Yun Xiao," she began, her tone more stern, her patience waning, "I don''t want to belittle myself, but we must face reality. You are so far out of my reach, like a figure atop the clouds, beyond my grasp..."

    Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, a crimson hue painting her cheeks. "Will you listen to me for once?" she quivered. "Our time together, though brief, was beautiful. Clinging further will only hinder your path of cultivation. With your aspirations aiming sky-high, how can you allow worldly desires to trap you? Without severing ties with the mundane, how can one ascend to immortality?"

    "Without severing ties with the mundane, how can one ascend to immortality?" The words reverberated in Yun Xiao''s mind like a thunderp.

    "To be an Immortal, one must cut off worldly desires, detach their heart from the world, focus solely on the path, and be indifferent to everything else?" Heat surged in Yun Xiao''s throat. He gripped the wine jug tightly, staring at the teary-eyed woman under the moonlight. In that moment, he felt a coldness enveloping the world.

    Mountains, rivers, the heavens¡ªall seemed to lose their warmth. The world transformed into a ce of indifference, cruelty, and heartlessness. Only the silhouette of the woman in the ck gown, with her tears shimmering in the moonlight, appeared like a zing fire, scorching his heart.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t contain himself. Rage consumed him. At that very moment, he realized he could never be one of those lofty, detached Immortals. He was born in this mundane world, and for sixteen years, every memory, every warmth, was gifted to him by it. If he severed his ties now, where would his true self be?

    If he solely pursued immortality, could he still feel outrage for injustices or anger for the hardships ofmon people? At the end of this path of cultivation, was he destined to be a heartless machine, devoid of emotions and passions, whose only purpose was to mindlessly swing his sword?

    "What then would be the point of living another lifetime?" Fire zed in Yun Xiao''s eyes. He uncorked the jug and downed its fiery contents in one go. Face flushed, he looked fiercely at the teary-eyed woman and roared, "Tell me! Who decreed that to be an Immortal, one must sever ties with the world and forsake love? Was it the edict of the Heavenly Court or the decree of the Supreme Immortal?"

    Zhao Xuanran looked startled, her hand tightening around Yun Xiao''s. Words escaped her.

    "If this is what it means to be an Immortal, maybe I don''t want it!" Yun Xiao eximed, a storm of emotions roiling in his chest.

    "But without bing Immortal, how will you be powerful? How will you defend yourself?" Zhao Xuanran asked, lost.

    "Who said without achieving this so-called immortality, one can''t be strong? Who sets these rules? Who dares dictate how I should live? I''ll cultivate this path to immortality my way. I''ll decide who I kill and spare! Who''s to say that because I have emotions and desires, I''m any less than the real Creator Immortal reborn? I may be a mere mortal with great fortune, but I''m also full of desires and ws! If I can''t ascend to immortality without severing my worldly ties, I''ll tear down that path and forge my own! Anyone who tries to stop me will meet their end!"

    In the heat of his passion, Yun Xiao grabbed Zhao Xuanran''s shoulders. His normally handsome face, reminiscent of the Creator Immortal, twisted into one of fierce determination, projecting his beliefs onto her.

    Zhao Xuanran was dumbfounded. Who was this man? Although his words might seem naive,ughable, and ignorant to any top-tier cultivator, she believed him. Those fiery eyes, that unyielding gaze, and his vast determination were like a massive sword piercing the heavens.

    He refused to be indifferent! He wouldn''t suppress his anger or his hatred, he didn''t want to be selfish, and he certainly didn''t want to use the path of immortality as an excuse to lose his humanity, bing an aloof showoff.

    "Alright, alright," Zhao Xuanran said, flustered. "Just stay with me for one more night. You promised to meet that holy maiden tomorrow. After standing her up, you owe her an apology."

    "Shut up!" Yun Xiao snapped, gripping her shoulders tighter. "Who does she think she is, ordering me around?"

    Zhao Xuanran yfully scolded, "You said it yourself. She''s a big shot from the Heavenly Realm and can help you greatly in the uing War of Immortals. If she takes a liking to you, you could rise to power with her support. Such a divine maiden guiding you is a rare opportunity..."

    "Divine maiden? Mortal maiden?" Yun Xiao''s temper red even hotter. He suddenly pinned Zhao Xuanran to a stone table, his gaze lowering, and said angrily, "I just like mynterns big! Is that so wrong?"

    "What do you mean by...nterns?" Zhao Xuanran''s mind went nk.

    Zhao Xuanran stared, dumbfounded, as Yun Xiao thrust a piece of armor at her. "I bought this protective armor for you. Put it on for me!" he demanded.

    "..." Zhao Xuanran didn''t manage a single word.

    "Creator, you shameless cur!" Blue Star and Red Moon, mischief in their eyes, poked their heads out, anticipating a spectacle. Suddenly, a hand reached out, gripping them both. With a forceful fling, they found themselves wedged into a rock crevice, utterly ttened.

    They squinted towards the distant cloud dwelling. "Well, that was a tad brutal," Blue Starmented, tongue-in-cheek.

    Red Moon sighed, "Well, he''s angry now. It goes to show, in all the vastness of heaven and earth, nothing is as vast as our appetite. Creator, we truly are kindred spirits!"

    Blue Star scoffed, "Kindred my foot! Your appetites arepletely different."

    "What? How can our appetites be different?" Red Moon asked, genuinely puzzled.

    "You''ll understand when you''re older," Blue Star replied, smugly.

    "What? We share the same body. If you''ve grown up, doesn¡¯t that mean I have too?" Red Moon''s gears ground to a halt.

    Blue Star took a deep breath, its deep blue eyes gleaming with amusement. "Forget it," he chuckled, "This is interesting. Really interesting!"

    "What''s so darn interesting?" Red Moon blinked in confusion.

    "Creator now has a mortal heart¡ªone that''s fiery, temperamental, and teeming with desires and emotions! He used to be like an innocent child amidst chaos, powerful yet easily fooled. But to break the cycle, one has to first join it. With this new array of passions, a new path to immortality beckons!" Blue Star dered with zeal.

    "You missed the word lust''," Red Moon hastily added.

    Blue Star nced in the direction Yun Xiao had gone, coughing slightly. "Indeed, I did. And, to be precise, it should be at the very forefront."

 Chapter 125 - You Do the Killing, I Make the Money

    <h4>Chapter 125 - You Do the Killing, I Make the Money</h4>

    The Sea of Swords, Spirit Treasure Walk... Dawn was gently breaking, and the sun began its ascent. Mist swirled around the Divine Dawn Pavilion. On a white jade bed, a young maiden''s dress spread out like a bouquet of fresh flowers, covering the entire bed. She looked like a gleaming pearl set at the heart of the blossoms.

    "You''re upset!" The little white tiger said, positioning itself on the girl''s chest. Truth be told, before the tiger''s eyes, that chest looked quite delicate yet unmistakably vast... like the open ins of the thousand mortal nations.

    "I''m not," her eyes were deep, reminiscent of the shifting clouds and fog.

    "You definitely are," the white tiger responded, shaking its head.

    "I said, I¡¯m NOT!" With a sharp raise of her eyebrow, the entire Azure Kite Street shook violently! <i>CRASH! </i>In an instant, all the surrounding buildings except for the Spirit Treasure Walk copsed. Azure Kite Street was reduced to rubble.

    Many Sword Cultivators emerged, covered in dust and utterly dumbfounded. Who did this? No one knew!

    "If someone caused this, they''re frighteningly powerful!" Many whispered in shock, their hearts uneasy for a long time.

    Inside the Divine Dawn Pavilion, the young maiden stood up. With a gesture, the white tiger transformed into a mask that attached itself to her face.

    "This person''s audacious! They deserve punishment!" The white tiger mask surprisingly spoke.

    The maiden in the white dress shook her head. "I was too impulsive."

    "Eh, he sure doesn''t know what he''s missing out on," the white tiger mask quipped.

    The maiden held onto the pavilion''s railing, lost in thought for a while.

    "There''s no rush. On our journey to the Heavenly Realm, opportunities will arise," the white tiger mask tried to assure her.

    The maiden''s gaze grew colder. "Forget it, it''s not worth it."

    "No way! This is a big opportunity! Please!!" the mask pleaded.

    "We''ll see," she replied dismissively.

    "If you think forcing him isn''t sweet, why not be Dao Companions? After all, you have the identity of the Chen n. When the timees, if he willingly bes your man, it wouldn¡¯t be forceful, right?" the mask suggested cheekily.

    "Dao Companions? Why would he agree?" she questioned.

    "Because he''s powerless and insignificant. And the Chen n is a powerhouse in the Heavenly Realm! Give him a chance, and he''lle running," the mask insisted.

    "Hmm." She didn''t say much more, her beautiful eyes ncing at the bathtub next to her, growing more irritated with every passing moment.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Sovereign Dragon Realm." Yun Xiao stood atop a cliff, dawn''s light casting fragmented shadows upon him. Reinvigorated by the morning''s embrace, he stood amongst the clouds, drawing the essence of heaven and earth, absorbing the divine light of the sun and moon, and swallowed handfuls of Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    Within his renewed Dantian, the Origin Core that had stabilized his realm exploded with umted magic power. It shattered into nine fragments, transforming into nine Primordial Void True Dragons!

    That night, he consumed tens of thousands of Heavenly Dao Sariras alone!

    The nine white dragons roamed within Yun Xiao''s Dantian, releasing deafening roars that resonated in every direction.

    "With the attainment of the Sovereign Dragon Realm,bined with my hundredyers of Sword Aura and four nine-thousand-year-old Sword Rings, my strength is iparable to what it once was," he mused.

    "I''ve conquered the Azure Spirit Sword Sect and Sea of Swords in only half a month. Now, with countless Spirit Stones and treasures in hand, all that''s left is to ascend to the Heavenly Realm!" Overflowing with ambition, Yun Xiao turned his gaze to the humble abode below.

    In the courtyard, a woman in a ck gown leaned against an osmanthus tree, her legs trembling slightly.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, I promise I''ll return soon," Yun Xiao called.

    "No... Take your time, I could use a longer rest," she responded, seemingly overwhelmed by the young powerhouse before her.

    Yun Xiao grinned, then, mounting his Sovereign Sword, he floated amongst the clouds and asked, "Will you wait for me?"

    Softly, she replied, "If you don''te back, I''ll wait for you for three lifetimes."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the easternmost point of the Sea of Swords, there stood a pier atop this floating ind.. Now, the sun finally rose from the eastern sea, its zing glory illuminating the Sea of Swords, painting the sword city in a hue of gold.

    A girl in a white dress stood there. The sun''s rays highlighted her wless skin, making it shine with a divine glow, an eternal brilliance unparalleled in the world.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>An azure sword streaked by, and Yun Xiaonded behind her.

    "You''ve been waiting," Yun Xiao stepped forward to stand beside her. ncing her way, he noticed she wore the white tiger mask, giving her an unapproachable air.

    "Why didn''t youest night?" she asked gently, her tone soft.

    "I ate something off. Stomach troubles. Threw up all night," Yun Xiao said with a deadpan face.

    "..." the girl blinked, at a loss for words.

    Blue Star scratched its head, taken aback. "ssic mortal moves!"

    Red Moon chuckled. "Good one!"

    "Miss Chen, did you have something crucial to discuss with me?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "No longer," she replied. Gazing ahead into the heavens, she pointed, "The celestial ship from the Heavenly Realm will be here shortly. Those boarding for the War of Immortal include geniuses from every corner of the Immortal Empire and scions of heavenly noble families. Prepare yourself."

    Yun Xiao shrugged, "No preparation needed. When I draw my sword, I kill."

    Just as his words settled, the celestial ship that Chen Xi mentioned arrived.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>An immense white vessel descended from the sky, appearing majestically before their eyes. Marvelous runic patterns adorned its hull, with sixteen shimmering wings of light. A single p could stir tempests in the clouds, making even the Sea of Swords quiver.

    "Warriors of the Sword Realm, board now!" a youthful, resonant voice echoed from the ship.

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao and Chen Xi soared,nding gracefully upon the celestial vessel.

    The moment they set foot, dozens of intense gazes weighed upon them.

    "Quite the lineup," Yun Xiao realized instantly that every being on this ship was a cultivator of the Sovereign Dragon Realm or higher¡ªno weaklings in sight.

    Standing before them were ten young individuals draped in alternating ck and white robes. They exuded a profound aura, and although their garments were simplistic, the shining patterns on them were undoubtedly top-tier protective talismans.

    In contrast, Yun Xiao''s in white outfit looked worlds apart. It was a difference as stark as day and night¡ªss distinctions, evident in the very fabric they wore.

    Apart from these ten, there were others in unique attire, disying distinct demeanors. While they were engrossed in their tasks, they now lifted their heads, ncing briefly at Yun Xiao and Chen Xi, their eyes filled with scrutiny.

    It was clear as day. They were allpetitors, and the spirit of rivalry was evident. A certainparison and striving to outdo one another was only natural upon meeting.

    "State your names," instructed one of the ten robed youths, distinguished by his striking white eyebrows. He emanated a schrly presence, an aura of both wisdom and grandeur.

    From beneath the folds of her white dress, the girl replied, "From the Forbidden Tower in Sword Realm, I''m Chen Xi."

    Hearing herply, Yun Xiao said, "I''m Yun Xiao, a disciple from Sword Heaven."

    "That''s not right." The white-eyebrowed youth consulted a list in his hand and remarked, "The list here states a Lin Chen from Sword Heaven."

    "I killed Lin Chen and am taking his ce. Is that permissible?" Yun Xiao responded.

    A hint of amusement crept onto the faces of the white-eyebrowed young man and hispanions. "Very well. You may participate," he said, a yful edge to his voice.

    Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, "You''re allowing that?"

    "Indeed. Killing to take someone''s ce is the rule of the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm," the schr-like youth exined.

    "I see. My gratitude," Yun Xiao said with a nod, thinking to himself: The folks from the Heavenly Realm sure are a friendly lot.

    "However," the youth with the white eyebrows added with a sly grin, "the participation list can''t be altered. Henceforth, you''ll have to go by the name Lin Chen."

    He was about to leave when Yun Xiao queried, "A name change?"

    "Yes." He chuckled. "The name Lin Chen has the air of someone feigning weakness to deceive others. It''s more straightforward than your original name."

    "That won''t do!" Before Yun Xiao could voice his opinion, Chen Xi suddenly interjected.

    The cluster of young men and women halted. With a swift pivot, their nces turned icy as they zeroed in on Chen Xi.

    "He shouldn''t be fighting for glory in the Heavenly Realm under a dead man''s name," Chen Xi said with unwavering conviction.

    The youth with the white brows stared at her, taken aback. Then he turned to Yun Xiao, asking with an air of sarcasm, "Has yourdypanion recentlye down with this audacity, or has she been this way for some time?"

    Yun Xiao merely gazed back, not uttering a word.

    Growing impatient, the white-browed youth addressed two of his cohorts, "Crush the hearts and lungs of these two from the Sword Realm and toss them to the dogs."

    Yet, at this threat, Yun Xiao grinned cheekily, "Over a mere name change, you folks get so upset you''re ready to kill? My, what saints you are!"

    It felt like charity was being thrown their way.

    At first, he''d thought this lot was quite agreeable. Turns out, they were simply wolves in sheep''s clothing. Ruffle their feathers just a tad, and they''d fly off the handle.

    The onlookers aboard the celestial ship exchanged incredulous looks. "The Grand Temple of the Immortal Realm personally came to pick them up. Thed broke the rules by fighting on someone else''s behalf. They only asked him to change his name. Why stir up unnecessary trouble?"

    "Three of the Grand Temple''s students surpass the Sovereign Dragon Realm. They''re the cream of the heavenly crop!"

    When someone extends an olive branch, why snap it?

    At that moment, a man and a woman from the Grand Temple, their magic powers swirling around them, lunged menacingly at Yun Xiao and Chen Xi.

    "If they touch me, that''s one thing," Yun Xiao thought, "But don''t they recognize the Empress of the Heavenly Realm?"

    Sure enough, a terrifying surge of magic power emanated from Chen Xi. With a steely gaze, she gently exhaled a breath infused with Immortal energy, mming it right into the two assants!

    The soft hum of power filled the air.

    The two students from the Grand Temple froze, and before anyone could react, their bodies crumbled like sand castles, disintegrating into two heaps of decayed yellow dirt. And just like that, they were gone.

    "Impressive." Yun Xiao mused, looking nonplussed. He had known all along; if anyone vexed Chen Xi, they were in for it. "You just don''t poke a tiger''s rear," he thought, "especially not if that tiger is, in reality, a ferocious tigress."

    "You dare kill students of the Grand Temple?" The white-browed young man gritted his teeth, raising a glowing red stone high above him. It illuminated the heavens with a brilliance that made even the bravest souls wince.

    The remaining eight in ck and white robes shifted nervously, clustering together, their eyes fixated on Chen Xi with a mix of awe and dread.

    From Chen Xi''s eyes emanated an endless storm of lightning and fire. She looked down at them as if gazing from a cloud. "You think that the Sky Shining Stone is your trump card?" she remarked with a hint of amusement.

    "Yes!" The white-browed youth responded with bravado. "In the Grand Temple, if you can''t win, call for backup!"

    No sooner had the words left his lips than Chen Xi flicked her finger.

    The very air hummed with power again. A streak of dark red me ignited right through the white-browed youth''s chest, spreading instantly to the other eight, consuming them in its fiery rage.

    "Who is this demoness?!" they screamed, their agonized cries cutting through the silence before they disintegrated into ck sand, gone without a trace.

    The cultivators from various Immortal territories who had witnessed this gory scene could only shrink back, their mouths firmly shut, eyes widened in shock.

    "If you''ve killed all the crewmen, who''s going to steer this celestial ship?" Yun Xiao inquired, his voice betraying a hint of amusement.

    He hadn''t nned to kill them over a disagreement, but it seemed Chen Xi had a bone to pick with the Grand Temple. Was it because she didn''t want him to change his name? An excuse, surely. Perhaps, he mused, she''s still upset about what happenedst night.

    Needless to say, she was powerful. Unimaginably so. And he had heard that this was just a fraction of her true strength, without even tapping into her Divine Dawn Empress powers.

    "I can steer," Chen Xi replied nonchntly, stepping over the ash of the fallen and heading into the interior of the celestial ship. "The families and elders behind these students will soon descend upon us.

    "Let theme. We''ll just kill them," she added, gripping the ship''s helm, her gaze fixed on the horizon, "It''s been ages since I had a good ughter."

    "How wonderful!" Yun Xiao chuckled, swiftly looting the undamaged Pouches of Holding from the ten Grand Temple students. With an unflinching face, he pocketed their treasures. "You do the killing; I make the profit."

 Chapter 126 - One Billion Sword Scars

    <h4>Chapter 126 - One Billion Sword Scars</h4>

    The Sky Shining Stone illuminated the sky as a shadow loomed over the entirety of the celestial ship.

    Genius disciples from the various territories and realms below the Immortal Empire were understandably fearful of the impending wrath of the Grand Temple. Consequently, they kept a respectful distance from Yun Xiao and Chen Xi.

    With Chen Xi at the helm, the celestial ship soared skywards!

    Yun Xiao, on the other hand, stood by the ship''s edge, gazing out over the boundless sea of clouds.

    At that moment, a burly youth with striking violet eyes approached Yun Xiao. His wild, curly hair seemed to dance with a vitality of its own, and his imposing presence felt like a mountain. The magic power he radiated was thick, nearly tangible, and carried a strong oppressive sensation.

    "Sword Cultivator?" the youth asked in a deep, raspy voice.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Stray Dog," the youth said, extending a massive hand towards Yun Xiao.

    "Stray Dog?" Yun Xiao paused, slightly puzzled.

    "It''s my name!" The burly youth, used to such confusion, chuckled, "It''s a reference to an old saying¡ª''The universe is indifferent, treating everything as stray dogs.'' You can just call me Dog Bro if you''d like."

    "Dog Bro?" Yun Xiao quirked an eyebrow, "You know, I''ve just angered some powerful entities in the Heavenly Realm. Associating with me might bring you bad luck."

    "No worries!" The youth grinned confidently, "I''ve got powerful backers. I''m golden!"

    "Must be nice," Yun Xiaomented. He then pulled out a sk of wine, offering, "Name''s Yun Xiao. How about we toast to a new friendship?"

    "Oh no," the youth hurriedly declined, shaking his head, "I can''t hold my liquor. Not even a sip."

    Yun Xiao blinked. "...Seriously?"

    "Would you prefer some goji berry tea instead? It''s good for health and soothes the soul," Stray Dog offered with a sheepish smile.

    "You drink your tea, I''ll stick with my wine," Yun Xiao said, chuckling. A figure as formidable as a dragon, yet concerned about his health?

    And so, the two leaned against the ship''s rail, enjoying their respective beverages while taking in the sea of clouds.

    "Hey, buddy, let''s see that Sword Soul of yours," Stray Dog blurted out, ever the straightforward one.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Just curious. I''ve seen a lot in my time, but never a Sword Cultivator," Stray Dog admitted.

    "Sure thing." Without hesitation, Yun Xiao took a swig from his sk with one hand, while with the other, he summoned his Sword Soul¡ªradiant with four Sword Rings and a hundredyers of Sword Aura.

    "Damn!" With just that one word, Stray Dog precisely conveyed his feelings of having his world turned upside down.

    "Not too shabby, huh?" Yun Xiao sheathed his Sword Soul, a faint smile on his lips.

    "A monarch among men, an emperor among swords! No wonder you''re so cocky!" Stray Dog raised his tea cup. "In ce of wine, I toast with tea¡ªto you!"

    <i>KLANK! </i>Their cups met in a brief toast.

    "Who would''ve thought that in this era, such a prodigious Sword Cultivator could emerge. It''s impressive," Stray Dog remarked with a hint of nostalgia.

    "Is it that rare?" Yun Xiao asked, curious. From their conversations, it sounded like the lineage of Sword Cultivators wasn''t particrly dominant.

    Yet, he knew that the entire potential of Sword Cultivators was channeled into lethality. They were the fiercest desperados¡ªstrong in offense but weaker in defense. Still, they were formidable, right? Surely, stronger than other Cultivators of the same realm?

    "Exceptionally rare! Among the ny-nine territories of the Heavenly Realm''s Immortal Empire, even those with the talent for Sword Soul often dare not pursue the way of the sword. Your courage to be a Sword Cultivator is itself admirable!" Stray Dog said, his gaze intense. "My old man used to say, always be wary of everyone, but if youe across a Sword Cultivator, there''s a good chance they''re worth getting close to."

    "Why wouldn''t someone with a Sword Soul cultivate it?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "You''re a Sword Cultivator and you don''t even know the basics?" Stray Dog looked puzzled.

    "In my realm, all are Sword Cultivators. Having a Sword Soul means you''re a cut above the rest," Yun Xiao exined.

    Upon hearing that, Stray Dog was dumbfounded for a moment.

    "I thought you were extraordinarily brave, but turns out you just didn''t know the risks," he said, shaking his head with amusement.

    "Care to borate?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "It''s simple, because of the demons," Stray Dog began.

    "What do you mean?" Yun Xiao was lost.

    "What fuels the growth of your Sword Aura?" Stray Dog asked.

    "Demon bones!"

    "What''s embedded on your sword?"

    "Sword Rings!"

    "And where do the Sword Ringse from?"

    "I refine the flesh and blood of demons to condense Blood Crystal Sword Rings," Yun Xiao stated.

    "Using bones for aura, and flesh for rings, skinning and ying... don''t you think the demons despise you?" Stray Dog chuckled.

    "They do!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "But demons don''t despise other cultivators quite as much," Stray Dog added.

    "So, they have it out for Sword Cultivators?" Yun Xiao quirked an eyebrow.

    "You think? Just imagine," the scruffy fellow, whom folks just called Stray Dog, began, "your kin''s flesh refined, hung upon a de, whipped daily. How''d you feel? Every demon in thisnd bears a vendetta against Sword Cultivators so deep, it tears at their very souls. An enmity that spans generations."

    "If they didn''t harm or eat humans, they wouldn''t face retribution," Yun Xiao replied coolly. "Regardless of their grudges, they deserve their fate."

    "Stubbornness!" Stray Dog sighed faintly. "It''s that very stubbornness that led to the decline of Sword Cultivators. Now, none stand tall among them."

    "Decline?" Yun Xiao mused. He had always believed that the world teemed with Sword Cultivators, thinking of them as just another type of cultivator. It seemed he was mistaken.

    "Once, they were a force to be reckoned with, shining brightly under the sun. Their realm echoed throughout the Immortal Empire, considered the mightiest of territories. But, s, that''s ancient history," Stray Dog remarked, gazing at the sky.

    "I''ve never heard of it. Nor does the Sea of Swords mention anything. Seems like it truly was ages ago," Yun Xiao said, shaking his head with a chuckle. The mightiest territory of the Immortal Empire? Not a soul in the entire Sword Realm knew this piece of history.

    "And then?" Yun Xiao asked, a calmness in his eyes.

    "Then, the Demon Continent descended," Stray Dog said.

    "The Demon Continent?" Yun Xiao turned to him.

    "You''ve not heard of the Demon Continent?" Stray Dog felt, thisd had been quite sheltered.

    "I haven''t."

    "The Demon Continent, a vast expanse ofnd, its origins unknown, appeared above the Divine Continent, hidden amidst the heavenly clouds. Unlike the Divine Continent, this realm teems with demons. From that day, their influence surged. The once dwindling demons of the Divine Continent grew in power, expanding like never before... And to this day, the Demon Continent looms overhead like a haunting nightmare," Stray Dog exined, looking towards the endless horizon.

    "So then..." Yun Xiao murmured, already anticipating the next chapter of the tale.

    Those demonic rulers of the Demon Continent once dered, ¡°Humans and demons can coexist, but Sword Cultivators must die,¡± Straw Dog recounted.

    Yun Xiao''s voice rasped slightly, ¡°So, they meant that the Demon Continent would permit non-aggression between humans and demons, under the condition that all Sword Cultivators are eradicated?¡±

    To make such a brazen promation showed that Demon Continent was more formidable than the Divine Continent.

    ¡°More or less,¡± Straw Dog began, ¡°though it''s more intricate than that. After the Demon Continent descended, it waged wars against the great Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent for thousands of years. That era was the Divine Continent''s darkest, marked by devastation. The eventual oue? Humans were defeated, suffering severe casualties. It was against this backdrop that the Heavenly Demon Emperor announced that while humans and demons can live, Sword Cultivators must perish. So...¡± He cast a somewhat regretful nce at Yun Xiao.

    ¡°The Sword Cultivators were forsaken,¡± Yun Xiao murmured, his lips quivering with suppressed emotion. This might be ancient history, but the injustice of it still stung. How many lives were lost in that devastating defeat?

    ¡°Forsaken? That''s a rather mild way of putting it,¡± Straw Dog remarked, cing a heavy hand on Yun Xiao''s shoulder. ¡°From what I''ve gathered, the Sword Cultivators were betrayed. Does that rile you up, my friend?¡±

    ¡°A bit,¡± Yun Xiao admitted.

    ¡°Just a bit?¡± Straw Dog huffed. ¡°From my findings, the once-illustrious Sword Realm, where almost everyone was a Sword Cultivator, and was the Divine Continent''s pride, was almostpletely annihted after that war. The scant poption of Sword Cultivators now is mostly because the survivors and their descendants migrated there after the war. I''ve done my research. In that battle, nearly a billion people from the Sword Realm perished.¡±

    ¡°A billion?¡± Yun Xiao clenched his fists tightly on the ship''s railing.

    ¡°Yes. By conservative estimates, about a billion descendants of the Sword Realm were sold to the demons... These heroes ensured peace between the Divine Continent and Demon Continent for countless generations. When you reach the Heavenly Realm, you¡¯ll see a monument dedicated to the Sword Dao. It''s marked with a billion sword scars. Each represents a life lost during that conflict.¡±

    ¡°Heroes?¡± Yun Xiao scoffed bitterly. ¡°More like they were coerced into heroism.¡± He had always believed that the sinister affairs between the Forbidden Tower and the Grand Wastnd were exceptions, anomalies in history. He never imagined that such events had age-old origins and were, in fact, historically recurrent urrences. Sacrificing a few for the sake ofsting peace.

    "Who am I supposed to ask if you ask me?" Seeing the bloodshot in Yun Xiao''s eyes, Stray Dog patted him lightly on the shoulder, sighing. "Don''t dwell on it. It''s ancient history now. Who knows how many years have passed? Those who died back then have probably been reincarnated countless times. In the Heavenly Realm, even the Sword Dao Monument is considered an old relic. Most of the younger generations aren''t moved by it anymore."

    "Indeed, time has been kind," Yun Xiao murmured, looking down.

    "At the end of the day, the root of all troubles is weakness! If the humans of the Divine Continent prevailed and wiped out the demons, would we have a situation like this today where demons run amok?" Stray Dog gave another hearty pat on Yun Xiao''s shoulder. "I despise those demons as much as you do, wishing the whole Demon Continent would just vanish. But we need to face reality. They''re stronger than us. Even in the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm, if they decide to send their talented demons, we can''t utter a word."

    "Right! When the enemy is strong, the best strategy is to sacrifice a few and beg for mercy," Yun Xiao said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

    "You sound just like a Sword Cultivator!" Stray Dog chuckled. "Just like what my old man used to say about you folks. You''re a bunch who never gives up, who fights to the end. No bigger picture in sight, just relentlessbat."

    "True, people like that are easily manipted by the cunning. Sent to die as cannon fodder, and thenmemorated with a grand monument. Not to honor the dead, but to cover up one''s own guilt," Yun Xiao remarked.

    Stray Dog was silent for a while. "You don''t need to immerse yourself in that ancient story. And after so many years, countless leaders havee and gone. Those who made decisions back then have likely undergone numerous reincarnations. Why should the descendants bear the grudges and mistakes of their ancestors?" He gave a wry smile, adding, "As descendants, all we can do is cherish the hard-won peace we have now."

 Chapter 127 - The Divine Pillar Became a Sword, What does the Demon Continent Become?

    <h4>Chapter 127 - The Divine Pir Became a Sword, What does the Demon Continent Be?</h4>

    "Is that what you think, then?" Yun Xiao looked up at him.

    "Ha! I must admit, it''s a bit awkward for me to say, and it''s a little unfair to the billion sword scars on the Sword Dao monument," Stray Dog said with a peculiar expression. "But it''s what our people have been saying for generations. I''ve heard it so much that I''ve be quite conditioned to it."

    Stray Dog hadn''t expected that Yun Xiao, a Sword Cultivator, would be unaware of this piece of history. But on second thought, the Sword Realm had experienced an annihtion in the past. Now, with new inhabitants settling in thisnd, past animosities had long been washed away by the rains into the vast sea. What was the point of dredging up history?

    Therefore, those higher up must have suppressed tales of these old events. And just like that, the resentment of a billion fallen heroes faded away, leaving nothing behind.

    Yun Xiao was silent for what felt like an eternity. Finally, he said to Stray Dog, "Thanks."

    "Just sharing what I know. No need for thanks," Stray Dog replied after a pause. "Let the past be the past. We need to focus on the present. Remember what I told you earlier? The War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm is approaching, and demonic prodigies will take the stage. Our Divine Dawn Empress''s marriage decree will undoubtedly draw the most terrifying of demons to the fray."

    "Though humans and demons can''t produce offspring, think about it," Stray Dog continued. "She''s a fifteen-year-old human prodigy and the Empress of our empire. If a demon were to legitimately marry her, wouldn''t that be like trampling over our pride? And we''d have to kneel and humbly call that demon our Emperor Consort. If you were a demon, wouldn''t that feel amazing? So, I''ve heard the entire Demon Continent is in a frenzy."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed. He shot a nce at Chen Xi, who was steering their vessel. <i>She''s not a Sword Cultivator, yet she''s joining the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm, under the title of the Forbidden Tower''s holy maiden from the Sword Realm?</i>

    The Divine Dawn Empress herself was joining the battle! What could her aim be?

    "Why the Divine Dawn Empress would make such an oundish decision, we may never understand. But mark my words, this uing War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm will be the fiercest sh of talents in the histories of both the Divine Continent and Demon Continent!" Stray Dog raised an eyebrow. "Given this backdrop, just ponder a moment: how sensitive will your participation be, as a Gxy grade Sword Cultivator talent from the Sword Realm?"

    "Had you only been some Lin Chen, your appearance would''ve stirred little more than a ripple. You''d go up there, the demons might have augh, wax nostalgic for a moment, and move on. But... you are the first Sword Emperor since the Sword Realm''s extinction!"

    Stray Dog took a deep breath, looking intently at Yun Xiao. "Look, I''ve read my fair share of history, and I''ve got a soft spot for Sword Cultivators. The Sword Realm and our Martial Realm share the same fiery spirit. That''s why I''ve taken it upon myself toe up andy out the stakes for you. After weighing all the facts, my sincere advice? Turn around, go home, bide your time, and for goodness'' sake, don''t march off to the Heavenly Realm to meet your doom!"

    "Heh," Yun Xiao chuckled, shrugging. "Once the bow is drawn, there''s no turning back the arrow."

    "I knew it!" Stray Dog pped his forehead. "What was I thinking, trying to get a Sword Cultivator hotshot like you to hold his temper? Impossible! If you backed down now, where would your fiery spirit be? A tempered Sword Cultivator might as well have a limp de!"

    "Regardless, I appreciate the sentiment," Yun Xiao said, genuine gratitude shining in his eyes. Were it not for Stray Dog''s advice, his urge to join the War of Immortals might not have intensified to such a degree. He hadn''t made a move, yet his sword already hummed in anticipation.

    "Onest thing, Dog Bro," Yun Xiao inquired. "Are there any other Sword Cultivators in the Heavenly Realm?"

    "There are whispers of three lineages," Stray Dog replied. "Descendants of the ancient Sword Realm. Survivors who have kept the spark of Sword Cultivation alive. But they keep a low profile, rarely making waves."

    Three lineages of Sword Cultivators?

    Yun Xiao mentally bookmarked that piece of information. Just then, a voice, tinged with urgency, rang out.

    "Creator!"

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao looked down.

    "There''s a Primordial Coffin trembling!" Blue Star dered.

    After the emergence of the Heaven Burial Primordial Coffin, they still had nine of these Primordial Coffins left inside them, the most mysterious objects discovered before the fall of the Creator Immortal.

    "Which one?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Prison Warden!"

    Yun Xiao remembered¡ªit was a violet coffin, filled with an intensely ominous aura.

    "Why''s it shaking?" Yun Xiao pondered aloud.

    "The only reason would be its proximity to a Dao Source!" Blue Star eximed excitedly.

    "Like the Dao Source of the Divine Pir in the Divine Continent?" A tremor rippled through Yun Xiao''s heart. He knew well the colossal nature of the Divine Pir.

    "Brother!" At that moment, from a short distance, Stray Dog approached, pointing beyond the clouds, saying gravely, "Look there!"

    Following his gaze, Yun Xiao saw through the mist a vast expanse of ck and violet terrain. It was distant, but even from afar, one could feel the overpowering, eerie, and malevolent energy emanating from it.

    "What is that?" Yun Xiao squinted.

    An endlessnd of violet darkness?

    "That, my friend, is the Demon Continent! A sudden and vast territory! It casts a shadow over the Divine Continent!" Stray Dog grumbled with a hint of animosity.

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao lowered his gaze and inquired of the little ck creature in his arms, "Demon Continent, is it the Dao Source?"

    "Absolutely!" Blue Star confirmed.

    "Could it possibly merge with the Prison Warden Coffin, bing something akin to my Heaven Burial Sword Soul?" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled with anticipation.

    "Again, absolutely!" Blue Star confirmed once more.

    "Then I''ll just go to the Demon Continent and absorb it, sending all the demons plummeting to their deaths," Yun Xiao said coldly.

    "That won''t work," Blue Star retorted.

    "Why not?"

    "Firstly, stronger demons wouldn''t die from a fall. Without theirnd, most of them wouldnd in the Divine Continent, infringing upon human territories," Blue Star exined.

    Yun Xiao pondered. Raining demons from the sky... What would be of themon folk?

    "Secondly, the Prison Warden Coffin is just beginning to shake. I need to study how to unlock it. It''s incredibly enigmatic, even your past self previously couldn''t decipher it," Blue Star added.

    "So, what should I do to get this ?" Yun Xiao asked.

    With a dismissive smirk, Blue Star quipped, "Patience, my friend. There''s always a way."

    "Ah, always in a rush. You never change, do you?" Red Moon sneered.

    "And you aren''t?" Yun Xiao shot back, an eyebrow raised. "Still thirsting for that demon milk?"

    Red Moon huffed, "I''ve been with you all this time and not a single drop! You promised!"

    "One more word, and by the end, you won''t get even a sip," Yun Xiao warned.

    Red Moon''s eyes widened, resembling two swirling red saucers. For a moment, it looked like it had been hit by a bolt from the blue.

    Yun Xiao then turned to Stray Dog to get a clearer picture of the Immortal Empire. The so-called Heavenly Realm was a unique world apart from the present one, often referred to as a pocket universe. Inside, spiritual energy was so dense, it felt almost liquid. It flowed with an even more potent aura, the aura of Immortals. The resources for cultivators in this realm were iparably richer than anywhere else.

    The Heavenly Realm was essentially the capital of the Immortal Empire, and the Divine Dawn Empress was its ruler and the Empress of the Immortal Empire. The most influential ns and factions of cultivators made the Heavenly Realm their training ground.

    Beyond the Heavenly Realm, there were ny-nine territories on the vastnds of the Divine Continent, including the Sword Realm and the Martial Realm. These territories were akin to provinces of the Immortal Empire, while those in the Heavenly Realm often referred to them as the lower realms.

    An empire of cultivators, where everyone followed the path, was ruled from the Heavenly Realm. The Grand Temple Academy was a ce for the next generation of cultivators. Apart from that, there were ten other powerful organizations, such as the Six Immortal Divisions, the Ancestral Temple, and the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. All functioned under themand of the Immortal Empire.

    And atop this vast structure sat one supreme figure¡ªthe Divine Dawn Empress.

    For Yun Xiao, this was where his destiny converged. With his newfound understanding, passion ignited within him. Ahead of their celestial ship, a magnificent golden sphere appeared, vast and looming outside the boundaries of their world.

    "That... is the Heavenly Realm!" He barely got a look before streaks of alternating ck and white divine lights roared towards them.

    <i>HUM HUM HUM!</i> In an instant, overwhelming magic power halted the celestial ship, anchoring it like a ship caught in the mire.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The ship trembled. Powerful figures descended from the heavens,nding atop the vessel. Their overwhelming energy felt like countless mountains pressing down, suffocating everyone below.

    Lifting his gaze, Yun Xiao realized that these figures... they were all elders! Many appeared ancient, their presence undeniable.

    Each of them bore a distinct characteristic¡ªa profound depth of knowledge, the aura of seasoned educators, brimming with vast wisdom, possessing unparalleled talents... A pride typical of schrs, concealed deep within their chests. The Grand Temple! The premier academy of the Heavenly Realm in the Immortal Empire.

    "So many daoists of the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm..." someone murmured.

    "This is bad!" another eximed.

    More than a dozen participants from various realms turned pale, hastily distancing themselves, all the while attempting to exin to the daoists of the Grand Temple.

    "It was these two from the Sword Realm. They killed the Grand Temple''s designated guides!"

    Suddenly, the gazes of the numerous daoists converged on Yun Xiao and Chen Xi.

    "Sword Realm?" some wondered, a touch of unfamiliarity in their voice.

    Of the ny-nine territories of the Immortal Empire, the Sword Realm might not be the least regarded, but it was certainly close.

    "Is that teacher Chen Xuan?" someone whispered.

    "For someone of his stature to personally attend... It speaks to the gravity of the matter."

    "Of course it''s grave. Students from the Heavenly Realm''s Grand Temple went to the mortal world as a sign of respect. And what happened? They were killed!"

    "In a mortal country, this would be akin to offing the Emperor''s personal envoy without a second thought."

    In such a situation, those daring enough to approach Yun Xiao and Chen Xi surely had powerful backers.

    However, even under these circumstances, the man called Stray Dog turned to Yun Xiao and said, "Bro, I''m out of my depth here. Standing our ground might bring big trouble for my old man back home."

    His concern wasn¡¯t about the people before him, but rather the intricate web of powerful families and factions they represented from the Heavenly Realm, a vast ocean of power in the Immortal Empire.

    "It''s fine," Yun Xiao nced at Chen Xi, "This doesn''t concern me. I''m just here to pick up the scraps..."

    Stray Dog, dumbfounded, muttered, "Isn''t this the mess you stirred up?" For a beauty like her to stand up for you, and you won''t stand beside her in life and death? While Stray Dog couldn¡¯t see Chen Xi''s face, his gut told him that with her demeanor, she couldn''t be anything short of stunning.

    At that moment, the foremost daoist, named Chen Xuan, took a step forward. Surprisingly, he gave a respectful bow to Yun Xiao and Chen Xi, saying, "I am Chen Xuan. Greetings to the two prodigies."

 Chapter 128 - God of the Nine Heavens, Resplendent in Celestial Might!

    <h4>Chapter 128 - God of the Nine Heavens, Resplendent in Celestial Might!</h4>

    "Greetings?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    Chen Xuan continued his salutation, his eyes shing gold as he inquired, "Exactly! Might I ask the esteemed identities of your households?"

    Yun Xiao understood. These Grand Temple teachers weren''t here for pleasantries; it was courtesy first, conflictter.

    In the ways of the Immortals, one gauged the background before making a move.

    No matter how powerful one was, no one wanted to mistakenly kill and invite undue trouble. The Immortal Dao was no different from the Jianghu, and those from the Jianghu were crafty indeed.

    Yun Xiao''s parents were mere mortals, so he had no answer to that!

    Chen Xi''s chilling gaze met the assembly of Grand Temple teachers. "Chen Xuan, a year has passed, and now you don''t even recognize my father? The Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, does that not give you a pause?"

    Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army?

    On hearing this, the expressions of the gathered prodigies changed to a mix of awe and respect. "No wonder she''s so arrogant! Such an illustrious lineage..."

    As Chen Xi''s words faded, theplexions of several Grand Temple teachers took a drastic shift.

    "The Sorceress of the Chen n, is that you?" Chen Xuan''s eyes widened in surprise and anger. "After being expelled from the Chen n and vanishing for a year, you went to the mortal realm?"

    "Indeed. And?" Chen Xi smirked subtly.

    "You dare return to the Heavenly Realm?" Chen Xuan spoke with a heavy voice, while the elderly daoist beside him dispersed, encircling thedy in the white robe.

    "The Heavenly Realm is my home. Why wouldn''t I return?" Chen Xiughed softly, "Not only am I returning, but I also intend to participate in the War of Immortals. Impressed?"

    Chen Xuan''s face grew colder. He exchanged nces with the others before fixing a stern gaze on Chen Xi, dering icily, "Since you''ve been expelled from the Chen n, don''t think you can use your father''s reputation to intimidate the Grand Temple. You''re now nothing more than a piece of driftwood, and you dared to harm our students? It seems a year''s absence hasn''t made you reflect on your wrongs, but rather intensified them. So be it, the Grand Temple will act on behalf of the Chen n, and in the stead of your father, to punish you. We''ll escort you back for discipline. If you resist, any consequence is on you."

    "Again with this act?" Chen Xi''s eyes red with a fiery intensity, the mask resembling a white tiger emanating a chilling aura. "If you wish to kill, just say it. Why hide behind a facade and disgrace yourselves?"

    "Silence!" Chen Xuan''s gaze turned icy, and he shouted with a raised hand, "Summon the Mystic Azure Scroll''!"

    "The Mystic Azure Scroll?" Hearing these words, every prodigy in the vicinity raised an eyebrow in rm. This thing, well, it was a force to be reckoned with.

    "Oh, Chen Xi thinks her fancy title will protect her? Adorable," someone remarked.

    "These Grand Temple teachers aren''t fooled so easily!"

    And as they all watched with a mix of awe and dread, a grand tapestry soared from Chen Xuan''s hands, unfurling above Chen Xi''s head. Its depictedndscapes, rivers, and mountains seemed to materialize, exerting a force akin to a world''s weight.

    <i>HUM! </i>The several teachers of the Grand Temple activated their Wind Fire Tribtion Realm magic power, channeling it into the Mystic Azure Scroll.

    <i>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </i>Yun Xiao suddenly felt the weight of a hundred thousand mountains pressing down upon him. His skin threatened to rip apart, and freshcerations appeared.

    "You want to trap her, fine! But why include me?" Yun Xiao''s eyes shed, his frustration evident.

    From the moment they boarded the celestial ship, other than scavenging some loot, he''drgely stayed out of the spotlight. But now? These teachers didn¡¯t seem to care who he was; in their eyes, he was as good as dead.

    "Once the Mystic Azure Scroll is out, if those two aren''t dead, I''ll forsake myst name!" a red-robed maiden from one of the Immortal Empire''s territories remarked with a smirk. But no sooner had she finishedughing, her head burst open, her lifeless body dropping coldly to the ground.

    Chen Xi nced her way, deadpanning, "Better reincarnate quickly, then. Maybe choose a new surname next time." Without hesitation, she gently pulled Yun Xiao behind her. With her seemingly delicate frame, she seemed to bear the weight of the universe on her shoulders.

    <i>HUM! </i>A massive surge of magic power erupted from within her.

    "This girl... she''s a bit too fierce!" Yun Xiao said, feeling the pressure lift off him. Clearly, she was taking on the full brunt of the attack from dozens of Grand Temple teachers.

    "All these so-called enlightened schrs have be a nest of traitors to the Immortal Empire. If the heavens won''t strike you down, I will," Chen Xi dered, her eyes intense and alight behind her mask. From them, countless violet lightning snakes sprang forth, electrifying her entire being.

    The gentle maiden in the white dress was now a fierce, thundering force of nature.

    "By the Nine Heavens, with celestial might, summon the Supreme Arcane Thunder. Execute!" Her red lips whispered themand. As she formed a seal with her slender fingers, tens of thousands of lightning snakes danced wildly over her delicate skin.

    "It''s the Extreme Thunder daoist spell!" Gasps of shock echoed through the heavens.

    At that moment, the girl in the white dress resembled a massive ball of lightning, with thousands of electric snakes zipping around her. The skies darkened, nketed by ominous clouds, casting the world into sudden darkness. The light of day was stolen, reced by a fierce disy of lightning.

    The expressions of the dozens of Grand Temple teachers changed dramatically. They gazed at Chen Xi in disbelief, shouting, "Wait, let''s talk this out!"

    <i>BOOM! </i>Before their words even finished, a thick, violet lightning bolt, the size of a water barrel, descended from the darkened sky. In a split second, the bolt pierced through the Mystic Azure Scroll, reducing it to dust, then striking the very heads of those teachers.

    The world seemed to hum with electric tension.

    The astonished faces of those teachers vanished into thin air, pulverized and scattered between heaven and earth. The Grand Temple teachers, in the blink of an eye, met their end. An eerie silence prevailed.

    As the dark clouds dissipated, and the electric snakes vanished, the girl in the white dress floated gracefully, reminiscent of a celestial blossom.

    On the celestial ship, the gathered prodigies, all lowered their heads, retreating to the furthest corner, too intimidated to utter a word.

    With just one daoist spell, Chen Xi had brought all to heel. The might of this young woman was truly awe-inspiring.

    "Damn," Yun Xiao murmured, still reeling from the scene. Looking down at Blue Star, he asked, "What kind of incredible skill was that?"

    "It''s a daoist spell," Blue Star replied earnestly.

    "Daoist spell? Like demon magic or sword techniques?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    "Oh,e on! True cultivation is about practicing daoist spells. What you''ve been dabbling in with your sword techniques is just a derivative of the Sword Dao. The only advantage is its potency in individual attacks. The peak of cultivation lies in mastering true daoist spells!" Blue Star responded with a hint of disdain.

    "Ah, now I get it!" Yun Xiao eximed, realization dawning on him. In Cloud Nation, most records of Immortals pertained to Sword Immortals, a peculiarity of their region.

    He surmised that elsewhere, the image of an Immortal was more like Chen Xi, invoking vast powers with a mere thought, aided by celestial thunder, leaving a trail of awe in their wake.

    "Sword techniques, daoist spells... none is strictly superior to the other. Daoist spells are akin to demon magic, and you canplement them with Sword Rings. Regardless of the technique, the ultimate goal is to defeat enemies. For Sword Cultivators, the best techniques are the deadly sword skills. inly put, Sword Cultivators focus on enhancing their attack, even though they may becking in defense. Traditional cultivators, on the other hand, learn a myriad of daoist spells, like moving mountains or summoning rain. They''re adept in runes, alchemy, and formation techniques, ensuring a bnced approach in offense, defense, and speed," Blue Star borated.

    "I see," Yun Xiao responded, nodding deeply.

    "What exactly did you get?"

    Yun Xiao narrowed his eyes, gazing at the nape of Chen Xi''s neck. "The best defense is a good offense," he mused. "If I strike down the enemy first, I won''t need to defend."

    "What about the runes, alchemy, enchantments, and formations?" Blue Star asked.

    "Why juggle all those side gigs? Isn''t it a waste of time? Crafting a pill can take days, even months. Killing only takes an instant for me. I''ll wait for others to finish their crafting, then take their treasures," Yun Xiao quipped.

    Blue Star, clearly amused, replied, "Well, aren''t you something!"

    Yun Xiao shifted his attention to the fallen enemies. "Hold on, there are items dropped!" he eximed. Approaching Chen Xi, he asked, "If you''re not going to pick them up, can I?"

    "Most items from the Grand Temple are specially marked. If you use them, they might bring disaster upon you," Chen Xi warned calmly.

    "I hope the next wave of enemies brings more treasures, then," Yun Xiao remarked. He quickly gathered up the dropped items. Without looking closely, he could tell he''d just made another fortune.

    Blue Star, not missing a beat, said, "See, if you follow her, you''ll get rich!"

    Chen Xi, watching Yun Xiao''s deft and audacious maneuvers, chuckled behind her icy facade. "You''re quite the character. You have the appearance of an ethereal being, yet you act like amoner from the marketce, seeking treasures from those you''ve defeated. Don''t you have any bigger aspirations?"

    "Do aspirations pay?" Yun Xiao retorted, grinning.

    "No, they don''t," Chen Xi replied.

    "So, what''s the point of them?" Yun Xiaoughed.

    "You really are a contradiction, aren''t you?" Chen Xi mused. "You look gentle, yet your actions are fierce."

    "And you? Delicate in appearance, yet so violent when provoked," Yun Xiao shot back.

    "Am I that violent?" Chen Xi pouted. "Alright, I''ll tone it down a bit."

    "No need," Yun Xiao said with a wry smile. "You be violent, I''ll get rich."

    As the conversation trailed off, Chen Xi steered the celestial ship, pushing forward towards the golden Heavenly Realm. It was said that this celestial ship was the key to traverse the barriers between worlds, a crucial warship of the Immortal Empire.

    Suddenly, Stray Dog, the burly youth with violet eyes, sidled up to Yun Xiao. "Bro," he whispered, "Forgive my bluntness, but have you been... kept?"

    "Kept?" Yun Xiao blinked in confusion.

    "You know, a sugar mama situation?" Stray Dog inquired, his face a mask of curiosity. "I mean no offense, just praising your looks. Honestly, with your appearance, you could be a top courtesan in the Heavenly Realm. You''d never have to leave the bed."

    Yun Xiao was taken aback. Was he really that good-looking? Pulling out a mirror, he studied his reflection. "Well, you''re right. I might never leave the bed."

    "So, are you kept?" Stray Dog asked, a hint of envy in his eyes.

    "Do you know her?" Yun Xiao whispered, not bothering to entertain the question.

    "Of course, she''s quite famous," Stray Dog replied.

    "Tell me more," Yun Xiao urged.

    "The Chen n is an ancient and powerful family in the Heavenly Realm, with prodigious individuals in every generation. They hold significant influence in all major institutions of the Immortal Empire. And her father? He''s the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army in the Immortal Empire¡ªa real big shot in the Heavenly Realm."

 Chapter 129 - Marry Me Today!

    <h4>Chapter 129 - Marry Me Today!</h4>

    The mere mention of her drew a hint of reverence from Stray Dog.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao nced downward, exchanging a look with Blue Star.

    Did she possess an identity beyond that of the Divine Dawn Empress? A sorceress of the Chen n? But why? Why would a supreme Empress hide, acting and waging wars under the guise of an heiress from an Immortal Empire''s prominent family?

    One thing was clear. Her identity as the Divine Dawn Empress was a closely guarded secret, and that part of her power was sealed away. Other than Yun Xiao and herself, few probably knew.

    Whether she was the sorceress of the Chen n or the holy maiden of the Forbidden Tower, she was only Chen Xi. After all, if the Grand Temple teachers had recognized her as the Divine Dawn Empress, would they have dared to act?

    This mystery was likely intertwined with the Emperor selection method of the Immortal Empire.

    "Go on," Yun Xiao said to Stray Dog..

    "Go on? That''s all there is! Chen n''s heiress, just that one identity," Stray Dog replied.

    "No juicy gossip? Like why she was banished from the Chen n a year ago?" Yun Xiao inquired. He wasn''t interested in gossip per se, but he was intrigued about why the Divine Dawn Empress would participate in the War of Immortals under another identity. From what he gathered, she was banished from the Chen n and descended to the lower realm to be the holy maiden of the Forbidden Tower.

    "I''m not too sure, but I heard she offended someone terrifying," Stray Dog replied.

    "Who did she offend that not even her father could protect her?" Yun Xiao asked nonchntly.

    "The royal family, Ye Xingchen," Stray Dog hesitated.

    "The royals? Another Ye?"

    "Can''t help it. The Ye Royal Family has been producing talents since ancient times," Stray Dog remarked nostalgically. "I heard that Ye Xingchen was once a lonely prince. His family might have declined, but he himself is quite impressive¡ªexceptionally talented at a young age."

    "Is that all?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    Stray Dog shook his head, taking a deep breath with a peculiar expression, "Then one day, his Dantian lost all its magic power. He suddenly fell into a deep abyss, experiencing the coldness of the world and the fickleness of human nature..."

    Blue Star gasped.

    "And then?" Yun Xiao asked, his face equally puzzled.

    "He was abandoned and his engagement canceled!!" Stray Dog eximed.

    "Damn!" Red Moon eximed, eyes bulging.

    "Who called it off?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "That one." Stray Dog pointed. Chen Xi was piloting a celestial ship, preparing to crash into the Heavenly Realm.

    Whispering into Yun Xiao''s ear with a gossipden face, Stray Dog said, "Word has it, she went personally to annul the engagement. The entire Ye Royal Family lost face. Since then, the two ns have been at loggerheads, bitter enemies to this day."

    "Go on," Yun Xiao prompted, already having an inkling.

    "The very night she broke off the engagement, Ye Xingchen''s magic power returned. He resumed his path as a cultivator, rising against all odds. He made waves in the Grand Temple, defeating higher-ranked opponents left and right, showing off and putting naysayers in their ce. Now, he''s the Grand Temple''s most prodigious disciple and the future hope of the Ye Royal Family. He''s the chosen representative of the human race in this very War of Immortals!" Stray Dog marveled.

    "So, why was she expelled from her n a year ago?" Yun Xiao''s gaze drifted to Chen Xi.

    "That day, during the Grand Temple''s most significant talent battle, Ye Xingchen made aeback and defeated her resoundingly. In the process, he showcased terrifying skills that could suppress an entire n. On the spot, he dered that anyone protecting Chen Xi would be his lifelong enemy. The decision in her n wasn''t just up to her father. Given the circumstances, they felt she needed some reflection. Especially since she had missed out on aligning with such a prodigious talent." Stray Dog chuckled mischievously. "Of course, this reflection might just be the outsider''s perspective. Now, it seems her expulsion was more of a protective measure. Otherwise, under Ye Xingchen''s shining reputation, she would have faced disdain and ridicule wherever she went over the past year."

    Yun Xiao remained silent, processing the revtions. His speechlessness wasn''t due to the absurdity of the situation, but the realization that not only was the identity Chen Xi real, but it was also deeply intertwined with so much history and causality. It seemed the entire Heavenly Realm recognized her as Chen Xi.

    "Blue Star, are you sure she''s the Divine Dawn Empress?" Hearing this tale, even Yun Xiao was having doubts.

    "Believe, my heavenly brother, and you''ll attain the Immortal Dao. My eyes are razor-sharp!" Blue Star asserted confidently.

    "Alright then!" This secret would now be Yun Xiao''s burden alone.

    "The War of Immortals is about to begin. The Heavenly Realm is in turmoil, and everything''s a mess!" Stray Dog, leaning on Yun Xiao''s shoulder, whispered, "Bro, got a ce to stay?"

    "Not yet," Yun Xiao replied.

    "No? Aren''t you going back to her n with her?" Stray Dog asked.

    Instead of answering, Yun Xiao inquired, "Where are you headed, Dog Bro?"

    Stray Dog pulled out a golden card from his pocket, unting it in front of Yun Xiao, "I''m off to the Spirit Treasure Pce, visiting an old friend of my family."

    "Hold on!" Yun Xiao snatched the card, studying it closely. It read¡ªHeavenly Spirit Treasure Pce Voucher!

    "...What''s this?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "An invitation to the Spirit Treasure Pce!" Stray Dog proudly dered, waving the golden card. "It''s Gold Rank, top of the line! With this, I''ll be treated like royalty and protected within the pce."

    Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, "Isn''t it just a voucher? Because, you know, I have one too."

    "Ah, that''s just a disguise to fool any snoopers." Stray Dog chuckled, a sly grin stretching across his face.

    Yun Xiao just stared, unamused.

    "If you don''t fancy sticking with her," Stray Dog winked, "you cane with me. With this invite, we''ll live the good life."

    With a smirk, Yun Xiao reached into his robes and pulled out a simr golden card. "Fancy that, seems like fate."

    Stray Dog''s eyes widened, a smirk forming, "Seems like we were destined to team up, eh?"

    "Keep your ttery to yourself. I''m not going to the Spirit Treasure Pce," Yun Xiao said, having made up his mind long before.

    "Why not? The Spirit Treasure Pce is a breath of fresh air in the Heavenly Realm. With their backing, you''d be shielded from a lot of troubles. In this world, having a powerful backing is even more important than one''s own strength," Stray Dog advised earnestly.

    Yun Xiao chuckled. "The Spirit Treasure Pce is a bit too... stingy for my tastes. I prefer ces with deeper pockets."

    Stray Dog gave him a yful, suggestive smile, "You''re prioritizing material gains over friends, aren''t you?"

    The decision wasn''t made on a whim. Yun Xiao had thought long and hard.

    Firstly, he was trouble with a capital T. His candid demeanor would no doubt ruffle some feathers. Being indebted to the Spirit Treasure Pce and mingling there could probably invite trouble for them.

    If he was to repay a debt, keeping it in mind was sufficient.

    Secondly, he had some inklings about the Divine Dawn Empress''s motives for participating in the uing conflict. If his hunch was right, it meant they were on the same page. And without a doubt, she would be the most formidable protection he could hope for in the Heavenly Realm.

    Yun Xiao had a keen intuition. Her return was, undoubtedly, to storm the heavens. Judging by the spoils of thest two confrontations, it was clear to Yun Xiao that he was on the brink of unimaginable wealth.

    "With the coffin soul beasts by my side," he mused, "my path to ascendancy is directly tied to riches and resources."

    Between the allure of the Divine Dawn Empress and the Spirit Treasure Pce of the Heavenly Realm, it was evident which path held more promise.

    ¡°It¡¯s like catching a fast train!¡± Blue Star chuckled.

    ¡°If we''re lucky, maybe some dual cultivation will skyrocket our powers,¡± the sly glint in Red Moon''s eyes suggested.

    The burly youth with violet eyes, seeing Yun Xiao''s determination, cautioned in a hushed tone, ¡°She''s disappeared for a year and her return implies trouble. Being her ally, you¡¯re bound to face countless unforeseen challenges and threats. Be vignt and keep the me of the Sword Cultivators alive.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for the advice, Dog Bro,¡± Yun Xiao replied, bowing slightly in gratitude.

    ¡°Think nothing of it!¡± Stray Dog brewed some tea, tossing in a handful of goji berries. ¡°Cheers, my friend!¡± They clinked their cups together in farewell.

    Just then, the celestial ship burst into a dazzling golden world. As Yun Xiao stood at the helm, he felt as if he were plunging straight into the sun. The world''s barriers shattered and through the kaleidoscope of lights and shadows, a vast tapestry of the Heavenly Realm unfolded before him.

    Endless swirling mists greeted his sight, thick and enveloping. Through the dense fog, golden pces with glinting runes stood majestically, their splendor seemingly infinite. It was a realm that made the Sea of Swords look minuscule inparison.

    ¡°So, this is the Heavenly Realm that mortals dream of...¡± Yun Xiao whispered, awestruck.

    He inhaled deeply, and the air felt like nectar, invigorating his entire being. Every fiber of his body tingled with a newfound energy. ¡°What a marvelous ce!¡±

    But with wondrous cese formidable foes. The vastness of the Heavenly Realm, with its gravity, solemnity, and majesty, silenced him. He dared not even breathe too loudly in the face of such grandeur.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The celestial ship touched down, and Chen Xi gracefully descended.

    "Shall we?" Her gaze, masked by a white tiger face, turned to Yun Xiao.

    "Let''s." As Yun Xiaonded beside her, the pair¡ªone in a white robe, the other in a white dress¡ªlooked like a match made in heaven. Even their very aura was uncannily simr.

    This suggested that Chen Xi was remarkably like him, unlike Zhao Xuanran. But Zhao Xuanran, with her contrasting nature to Yun Xiao, had a certain appeal thatplemented him perfectly.

    "That guy''s got guts!" Stray Dog chuckled, shaking his head with a mixture of amusement and admiration, before heading off in the opposite direction.

    The others swiftly dispersed, fearing they''d get caught in any confrontation between Chen Xi and the Grand Temple.

    Along the way, Yun Xiao, soaking in the sights, spotted magnificent immortal towers floating amidst the clouds. Rivers flowed in the skies, vibrant fires danced on the ground, and countless ''Immortals'' in shimmering, jewel-adorned clothes smiled and glided by, a sight to behold.

    This was the capital of the Immortal Empire, the Heavenly Realm!

    Ny-nine territories held up the splendor of the Heavenly Realm. Take Stray Dog, for instance, from the Martial Realm¡ªdefinitely a notch above the Sword Realm.

    Yun Xiao and Chen Xi traveled side by side, wordlessly. The Heavenly Realm was veiled in mist andcked the earthly hustle and bustle.

    Soon, clusters of radiant white pces appeared before Yun Xiao. nking the grand entrance were two dragon-wrapped pirs, atop which hung an imposing que engraved with dancing dragons and fluttering phoenixes.

    "Chen Heavenly Mansion!"

    They''d reached her home. The moment her silhouette appeared before the mansion, the white-armored guards instantly recognized her.

    "The sinner!" Their expressions changed, and after that shout, one darted inside to alert the others.

    <i>HUM! </i>The entire Chen Heavenly Mansion seemed to vibrate subtly, the atmosphere immediately turning tense and explosive. Clearly, she wasn''t wee.

    But Chen Xi seemed unbothered. She suddenly turned to Yun Xiao, her eyes a spectacle¡ªleft one thundering, the right ame.

    In a sh, storms of thunder and fire spiraled around Yun Xiao.

    "What''s this about?" Yun Xiao queried, a hint of annoyance creasing his brow.

    Chen Xi''s gaze burned into his, her cherry lips parting slightly, "Marry me. Today."

    "..." Yun Xiao''s eyes went wide, not expecting this answer at all.

 Chapter 130 - Nine Steps to Heaven, Cosmic Pagoda!

    <h4>Chapter 130 - Nine Steps to Heaven, Cosmic Pagoda!</h4>

    In the heart of a misty expanse,den with an ambience of ethereal grace, the chiming of bells rang out, echoing a vast and profound aura.

    Hidden within a veil of white fog stood pces and pavilions, exuding an air of elegance, simplicity, and righteous aura. Every five steps revealed a new building, every ten unveiled a pavilion. Hanging within these structures were paintings and scrolls, while dignified schrs and artists, brimming with an Immortal aura, ambled through the corridors and courtyards. With every stride, they covered a distance of thirty feet, their robes fluttering behind them.

    The courtyards showcased rocks, artificial mountains, and ponds, all radiating an air of deep knowledge and wisdom.

    This ce was none other than the Grand Temple, a revered and exalted location within the Heavenly Realm. It was the cradle of culture and knowledge for the Immortal Empire.

    Young members of various noble families came here to learn the arts of cultivation and governance. Between the ages of ten and twenty, almost all influential schrs and warriors of the Immortal Empire would train at the Grand Temple, ensuring they walk a righteous path in both deed and spirit.

    The strength of the Immortal Empire was rooted in its traditions and education. The Grand Temple was not only its sacrednd of legacy but also a battlefield where the youth of noble families proved their mettle.

    Those who distinguished themselves at the Grand Temple were bound to be pirs of the Immortal Empire, taking their rightful ces in the Six Immortal Divisions, Ancestral Temple, Great Dao Pavilion, and the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, etc., shining bright for their homnd.

    Now, the Heavenly Realm''s War of Immortals hosted by the Grand Temple was imminent. The entire temple, from the teachers to the students, was abuzz, preparing for the influx ofpetitors.

    However, within the vast temple grounds, one courtyard stood out, a haven of peace amid the hustle and bustle, like a serene stream.

    Within this courtyard was a fish pond. Next to it, a reclining chair swayed gently. A young man in whitey on it. His eyes sparkled like stars, his face was radiant, and he had a handsome, carefree demeanor.

    A straw dangled from his lips. He rested his hands behind his head, gazing into the distance, lost in thought. Suddenly, he reached out a hand. A radiant, nine-tiered pagoda materialized on his palm, its brilliance so dazzling that the space around it seemed to warp, clearly an artifact not of this mundane realm.

    "Grandpa Pagoda, you there?" The young man shouted abruptly at the shining pagoda.

    "Dammit!" From atop the pagoda, an elderly figure in gray robes materialized, looking peeved. "How many times must I tell you? I was in deep slumber! Deep! Quit bothering me!"

    Amid the ambient sounds, the young man in white, who exuded a casual confidence, let out a chuckle. "Sleeping? You were probably daydreaming some inappropriate dreams, weren''t you?" he teased with a grin.

    "Get lost!" the old man in the gray robe retorted.

    Chuckling, the youth spat out the piece of straw he was idly chewing on and said, "Enough joking. Here''s the good news. I''ve fully integrated the stars of the firstyer of the Cosmic Pagoda into my being. Now, assist me in unlocking the secondyer''s Martial Star. I''m ready tomence the second phase of the Nine Heavens Star Technique."

    "That quickly?" The old man in the robe was taken aback. He thought to himself, "This kid is even more formidable than his parents anticipated. If he can cultivate the Nine Heavens Star Technique to the secondyer, reaching unity with the heavens is a genuine possibility."

    "Enough talk, open it." The youth''s eyes sparkled as he held the ster tower in his hands.

    "Lil Chen!" The old man whispered, his voice heavy with concern. "Consider this carefully. Once I release the secondyer''s Cosmic Pagoda, it will immediately drain your magic power, rendering you a cripple again. With the uing Heavenly Realm''s War of Immortals being of utmost importance to you, aren''t you afraid of setbacks?"

    "Rx," the youth stretched leisurely and replied with a carefree smile. "The Cosmic Pagoda''s ability to alter time has improved. Inside, I have all the time I need for cultivation. As for the War of Immortals, I''ll justy low for a bit, making sure I don''t miss the final showdown. The journey doesn''t matter; all I need is the silent awe at the very end."

    The old man in the robe shook his head in amusement. "Last time, when the Cosmic Pagoda manifested, you hit rock bottom and even got your engagement called off. Now, once you plunge into the abyss again, those demons and monsters you once trounced will probablye out to mock you."

    "Heh. If they think they haven''t been pped hard enough, then they haven''t seen anything yet." The youth smirked. "After absorbing the second Cosmic Star, I''ll just im I''ve lost my mind to demonization."

    "You have an unyielding spirit that thrives in adversity. Your parents would be proud." The old man looked fondly at the youth. "After this ordeal and once you''ve assimted the Cosmic Pagoda, your Nine Heavens Star Technique will progress further. By then, you might even rival the Divine Dawn Empress. Like you, she''s undoubtedly a prodigy."

    Speaking of the Divine Dawn Empress, a yful gleam appeared in the youth''s eyes. "Yes, she''s quite intriguing," he remarked,ughing lightly. "Certainly more so than that short-sighted marshal''s daughter from the Chen n."

    "She''s already bruised and battered thanks to you." The old manughed softly. "The Chen n, at least, were wise enough to recognize your potential. Theybeled her a sinner and distanced themselves from her. Otherwise, they would''ve lost at least half their members this year. Your decisive and ruthless nature is something they''ve witnessed and are rightfully wary of."

    "I heard her old man''s still pretty stubborn. When I''ve merged with the second Cosmic Star, the first thing I''m gonna do is twist off the head of that arrogant Nine Heavens Immortal Army Supreme Marshal..." The youth in white dered, a nonchnt glint in his eyes.

    He vividly remembered the day of the broken engagement, the face of that man. Although he''d already crushed Chen Xi underfoot, this was far from over.

    "By the way, Grandpa Pagoda." The youth turned to the old man in gray robes, "Once I''ve cultivated the Nine Heavens Star Technique to the second level, you''ll finally tell me who my real parents are, right?"

    "Ahem!" The old man in gray robes hastily shook his head. "They''re just ordinary folk."

    "Ordinary folk that can pierce through a pocket universe with a single finger?" The youth retorted. "Rest assured, even if I knew, I won''t get all high and mighty."

    "And why would you? Get arrogant and you''ll be dead before you know it," the old man shot back, eyes ring.

    "Why''s that?" The youth''s eyes narrowed coldly.

    The old man sighed deeply, staring at the youth for a moment before finally saying, "All I can tell you is they''re in peril. They''re being hunted down, on the run, with no time for you."

    "Hunted?" Coldness shed in the youth''s eyes.

    "Yes. You''re theirst hope. Stay here, grow strong, and I''ll be with you every step of the way, helping you turn the Nine Heavens Stars and tread the heavens in nine steps."

    "Is that so..." A fire ignited in the youth''s eyes. "When can I join them on their battlefield?"

    "When you''ve cultivated the Nine Heavens Star Technique to the sixth level," the old man replied.

    "Alright, noted." The youth pursed his lips, looking into the distance. "Divine Dawn Empress? Interesting..."

    Just then, a young girl burst in with news.

    "Senior Brother Ye!!" The girl panted, somewhat displeased.

    "What''s up?" The youth, known as Ye Xingchen, put away his Cosmic Pagoda and stood up.

    The girl pouted, disdain evident. "I heard Chen Xi''s back!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Chen Heavenly Mansion, within its vast confines stood the grand hall known as the Chen n Soul Hall. Inside, the hall sprawled with expanses of white jade floor, surrounded by thousands of seats.

    At this moment, the atmosphere inside the Chen n Soul Hall was solemn, an oppressive silence reigning supreme.

    Yun Xiao stood by the entrance, his gaze stretching ahead. On the vast white jade floor, a young woman in a white dress, her face obscured by a white tiger mask, stood alone. She was the solitary focal point of countless eyes upon her.

    High above, at the very front of the hall, sat fifteen elevated thrones. To their left and right were two rows of a hundred white jade seats, with thousands more filling the rest of the space. Most of these seats were upied. All were of the Chen n from the Heavenly Realm.

    Despite his distance, Yun Xiao could distinctly sense that the cultivation level of these beings from the Heavenly Realm far surpassed those of the Sword Realm. Wherever his eyes roamed, among the thousands from the Chen n, elders and young ones alike, none seemed ordinary.

    Any of them, if ced in the Sword Realm, would undoubtedly be considered top-tier geniuses and mighty warriors.

    Imagine the immense pressure from thebined magic power of these thousands pressing down on a single person¡ªthe weight borne by Chen Xi was almost unimaginable. Yet, through it all, not a single strand of her long hair fluttered.

    A resonating hum filled the air.

    The figure seated in the middle of the highest row of thrones slowly opened his mouth. Even before he spoke, the air vibrated, sending shockwaves rippling toward Yun Xiao.

    This man, d in golden armor, was tall and imposing. He wore a golden helmet, his eyes gleaming like that of a golden panther. The armor over his chest was engraved with the image of a fierce, golden, droopy-eyed tiger.

    The Chen n was a breed of fierce warriors, every one of them fierce as tigers and leopards. Their blood seemed to run hot with ferocity, a trait carved into their very beings. So, it was no wonder that in the Heavenly Realm, the Chen n frequently produced top-ranking generals of unparalleled valor.

    "Chen Xi," the imposing man in golden armor said, looking down at her with a powerful intensity.

    "Uncle," Chen Xi replied, casting a fleeting nce at him before her gaze settled on the vacant throne beside him. "Where''s my father?"

    "Demons from the Demon Continent are amassing in great numbers. Your father is currently deploying the Nine Heavens Immortal Army and setting up defensive formations," the man in gold informed her.

    "Oh. Well, then, get someone to notify him. Tell him toe back," Chen Xi ordered.

    The golden-armored man remained silent.

    "Enough!" Suddenly, next to the golden-armored man, an elder with a long beard, d in dark green battle armor designed for Immortals, mmed his hand on the table. He red fiercely at Chen Xi. "Banishing you from the n was meant to offer you a way to survive! Now, at the cusp of the War of Immortals, an incredibly sensitive period, what on earth brought you back? And you expect your father to abandon his duties in such a crucial moment? Do you think the demon invasion is child''s y?"

    His words set the hall abuzz, and many from the Chen n whispered among themselves, casting sidelong nces at Chen Xi.

    "The old n King and Ye Xingchen''s grandfather were the best of friends, which led to their betrothal. They were a match made in heaven, but s, Chen Xi couldn''t see his worth. She''s been a disaster," one whispered.

    "Justst year, she embarrassed us all. I thought she''d have learned her lesson by now, but she''s still as reckless as ever. Killing a few students from the Grand Temple was bad enough, but she even killed dozens of teachers! How will we ever exin this to the Grand Temple? And what about our n''s students studying there?" another hissed.

    "She''s just returned from the mortal realm. She probably has no idea how powerful Ye Xingchen has be in the year since shest faced him. Even some of the most esteemed elders in the Heavenly Realm aren''t a match for him. Rumor has it he''s close to rivaling the Divine Dawn Empress in talent," another remarked.

    "The Empress stands alone, but behind Ye Xingchen is the entire Ye Royal Family. They have ruled the Heavenly Realm for longer than anyone," yet another voice chimed in.

    "She''s so short-sighted," someone concluded with a sigh.

 Chapter 131 - The Disgraceful Actions of the Disgraced!

    <h4>Chapter 131 - The Disgraceful Actions of the Disgraced!</h4>

    The tumult in the Chen n Soul Hall reached a fevered pitch, but a bellow from the man in golden armor at the center silenced the mor. "Quiet!" The shout rang out with the power of a tiger''s roar, making the very ground tremble in response. The noisy gossip instantly hushed, though grumbles of annoyance still danced in their minds.

    "Chen Xi." The man in golden armor waved dismissively. "Your timing is off. Once the War of Immortals concludes, return. I''ll discuss matters with your father and find you a ce."

    "You''re mistaken. I''ve returned at the perfect moment." Chen Xi replied calmly, "I intend to participate in the War of Immortals." This promation sent a ripple ofughter through the hall.

    The man d in green armor chuckled, saying, "Dream on. You were banished from the Chen n in name. How can you represent us now? Wishing to embarrass us again? Over my dead body!"

    "And ours!" Suddenly, everyone echoed in agreement.

    Amid the rising tide of opposition, Chen Xi gracefully produced an War of Immortals jade token. "I''ve joined the Forbidden Tower of the Sword Realm. I''m a formal disciple. I will represent the Sword Realm in the war. What business is it of yours?"

    The boisterous voices of the Chen n slowly faded. They exchanged uneasy nces.

    "That''s still uneptable!" The man in green armor persisted, icy eyes fixed on Chen Xi. "You bear the Chen surname and our blood. If you show up at the Heavenly Realm''s War of Immortals, any shame you bring is on the Chen n! Chen Xi, quit struggling. As long as Ye Xingchen exists, you''ll never hold your head high. ept your fate!"

    The moment his words fell, Chen Xi''s gaze snapped to him, her eyes zing with fury.

    She took a step forward, her white dress swirling like a storm. A surge of magic power erupted around her, manifesting as a fierce tiger-shaped tempest of lightning and fire, which crashed into the man in green armor!

    With a deafening roar, the man d in green armor was caught off guard. His face paled in an instant, and as he began to harness his magic power, it was instantly suppressed.

    The tempest of lightning and fire struck him squarely, causing him to spit out a stream of dark blood. He was blown backward, crashing into a wall, where he slumped down like an overcooked shrimp!

    "Fifth Uncle, you''re as useless as theye," Chen Xi remarked with a raised brow and a cold, amused smile. "You can''t even withstand a junior''s magic attack. Do you really think you have a voice here?"

    "Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm?" The green-armored man struggled to his feet, his eyes bulging as he stared at Chen Xi. He spat out another mouthful of blood. The words sent a hush over the hall, and the many gathered faces turned a shade paler. They knew to keep their mouths shut.

    "Enough," the man in golden armor mused, eyeing Chen Xi thoughtfully. "I''ll inform your father and grant you permission to partake in the War of Immortals¡ªbut under the Forbidden Tower''s name."

    "I never intended to bring honor to the Chen n anyway," Chen Xi replied nonchntly.

    "Very well... The Dawn Pavilion remains yours. Since you''re back, you might as well settle in," the golden-armored man sighed.

    While murmurs arose from the crowd, they held their tongues. A young cultivator of the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm was indeed an invaluable asset. Were it not for her feud with Ye Xingchen, she would be wholeheartedly supported by the entire n.

    "One more thing," Chen Xi interjected suddenly.

    "Speak," the golden-armored man responded.

    "I expect my father to be prompt. By sunset today, I''ll be getting married!" she announced.

    "Married?" A collective gasp rippled through the crowd.

    What on earth was she up to now?

    "We have about three hours. Should be enough time to send out invitations across the Heavenly Realm, don''t you think? My father is the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. You decide the scale and prestige of the wedding," she said, casually tearing a red cloth from the wall and holding it like a bridal veil. "As long as I have this, I''m good."

    A stupefied silence followed, with everyone casting puzzled nces at the peculiar young woman.

    "Stop this nonsense," the man in golden armor grumbled.

    "I''m not joking," Chen Xi responded defiantly, her eyes zing. "In this house, my father''s word isw. If he doesn''t object, you all best get on with it!"

    "And who, pray tell, are you marrying?" the golden-armored man asked seriously.

    Chen Xi turned and pointed at a handsome young man in white at the entrance.

    Yun Xiao sighed internally, realizing there was no escaping this predicament. What on earth was her intention? He felt there must''ve been some deeper thought behind her actions.

    Amidst the gazes of the crowd, Yun Xiao stated, "I object to this marriage."

    "Your objection means nothing," Chen Xi retorted, "Once you enter the Chen n, there''s no leaving."

    Before Yun Xiao could add anything more, Chen Xi approached him, confidently taking his hand and introduced to the gathering, "Ladies and gentlemen, meet my soon-to-be husband, Yun Xiao. He hails from the Sword Realm and is a Sword Cultivator."

    "A cultivator from the lower realms?" The man in the golden armor took another deep breath, his voice dipping low.

    "Yes."

    "And his cultivation level?"

    "He''s in the Early Sovereign Dragon Realm."

    The crowd fell silent.

    "She''s acting up again."

    "So willful!"

    "She''s been this bratty and disrespectful since she was a child. It''s no wonder she faced such disgrace a year ago."

    "Has she really gone unchecked all this time?"

    The countless members of the Chen n exchanged looks of shared dismay. Their hands were tied. The princess of the n was spoiled beyond measure. And now, she had probably gone and poked the sky with her antics. A year apart and not a shred of remorse, instead, she''d be even more reckless!

    "Remember," Chen Xi warned, "the ceremony is at dusk! If you miss the auspicious time, I''ll hold the ceremony right outside the Chen n''s main gates."

    With that, she briskly walked away, hand in hand with Yun Xiao.

    The Ancestral Temple of the Chen n remained silent for a long time. Finally, the crowd couldn''t contain their whispers any longer.

    "Now that she has reached the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, she might have gained power, but why such a disgraceful attitude?"

    "Do you think she''s just trying to humiliate herself?"

    "Exactly! Once upon a time, she was betrothed to a genius, a match of equals in both talent and beauty. But she, blind to his worth, rejected and insulted him. And now? She brings back some nobody from the lower realms and wants to marry him?"

    What a scene the Chen n made, thought the heavens themselves might split withughter.

    "What would Ye Xingchen think of this spectacle? The Grand Temple? And the Ye Royal Family?" voices whispered.

    "They''llugh, of course!"

    "She''s brought this upon herself!"

    "Ah, to think of our noble n King, the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, and yet he fathered such a shameless daughter...!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Chen Heavenly Mansion, the Dawn Pavilion, the size of ady''s chamber there rivaled Yun Xiao''s entire royal pce in the Cloud Nation. Expansive courtyards with mountains, waters, trees, and flowers.

    A maiden in white stood motionless by theke, while Yun Xiao leaned casually in the gazebo.

    "Aren''t you going to exin?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "No need. I''ve requisitioned you," Chen Xi replied, not turning her gaze from the calm waters.

    "Requisitioned?" A realization struck Yun Xiao, strengthening his suspicion that she must be the Divine Dawn Empress. Who else would use such a word so casually?

    "I can promise you two things," Chen Xi began, "First, as long as I''m around, you won''t die. Second, whatever resources you desire, they''ll be yours."

    "And why should I believe you?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I don''t care if you do or don''t," she retorted. Well, then! She''s got spirit!

    "Bro, stand up to her!" Blue Star whispered.

    In a moment of high tension, Red Moon eximed, "Force her into the nurturing phase!"

    "Quiet down." Yun Xiao cleared his throat, turning to Chen Xi and dered, "Let''s get one thing straight. I may sell my talents, but not myself. Once our deal is done, I''ll divorce you."

    Chen Xi hesitated for a moment, then turned to re at him, "What if I don''t want to?"

    Yun Xiao was left speechless.

    Just then, he felt a sudden warmth behind him.

    Whipping around, he found himself face to face with a man. Dressed in pristine white Immortal armor, the man resembled a pale, massive tiger. Yun Xiao had no idea when he had approached.

    "Dad!" Chen Xi eximed.

    The man in white armor nced at her, his voice gentle yet imposing, "My dear daughter, are you sure you want to go through with this?"

    "I am," Chen Xi affirmed.

    The man''s eyes, burning like two fierce suns, shifted to Yun Xiao, making him feel as if he were standing in the middle of a zing furnace.

    "Show me your Sword Soul," the man demanded.

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao raised his hand, releasing the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, aiming it straight for the man.

    The man simply reached out, catching the de with his fingers.

    A sizzling sound filled the air, and smoke rose from his fingertips.

    "eptable," he remarked, giving Yun Xiao a prating look. He then addressed Chen Xi, "Get dressed up. Tonight, I''ll send out invitations far and wide, hosting the grandest wedding ceremony for you."

 Chapter 132 - Missing the Forest for the Trees

    <h4>Chapter 132 - Missing the Forest for the Trees</h4>

    At the Chen n Soul Hall, from every corner of the Heavenly Realm, more of the n hurriedly returned, their expressions grave, congregating in this ce. Over two thousand top cultivators, dense with magic power, engaged in animated discussion. Some had even heatedly turned white-faced from disagreement. The whole hall was abuzz.

    Just then, a robust man d in white tiger armor stepped in from the outside!

    "n King..." For a moment, all voices fell silent. The hall descended into an eerie stillness, every gaze fixed upon the man in white armor, emotions swirling in their eyes.

    Walking to the foremost position, the man in white armor turned and seated himself, spreading his arms onto the armrests, exuding an overwhelming presence, authoritative without anger.

    "Second Brother!" The man in green battle armor, the very one Chen Xi had recently suppressed, known as Chen Mo, gritted his teeth.

    "Speak," the man in white armormanded in a deep voice.

    "For Chen Xi to have remained dormant for a year and then break through to the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, I am both surprised and genuinely pleased for her," Chen Mo voiced, with thousands of Chen n members watching him intently.

    "And?" the man in white armor queried.

    "Everyone knows that you banished her from the Chen n a year ago merely to protect her. Now, it''s evident that your good intentions weren¡¯t in vain!" Chen Mo continued.

    "Can you skip the pleasantries?" The man in white armor shot him a frosty nce.

    "Yes... Second Brother! Our Chen n does not fear the Grand Temple, let alone the Ancestral Temple or the Ye Royal Family. We also aren''t intimidated by Ye Xingchen! Given Chen Xi''s achievements today, we all believe there¡¯s no issue in taking her back and nurturing her further. She''s one of the Chen n, and for her, even if it means offending Ye Xingchen and the many great forces behind him, so what?" Chen Mo dered passionately.

    "You''ve taken all the good lines, little brother," the man in white armor remarked coolly. "My daughter returns after a year''s rest, achieving the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. Do I need your approval to protect her?"

    "Brother..." Chen Mo began awkwardly.

    "Brother," interrupted the golden-armored man, Chen Zhao, the eldest of their generation. "Our little brother is just trying to say what we''re all thinking. We''re family. We won''t be so cowardly as to shy away from protecting our own just because of some menacing foes."

    "Menacing foes?" The man in the white armor chuckled coldly. "Well, they are formidable. Seems like half the Heavenly Realm has gathered around this Ye brat, supporting his challenge to the authority of the Divine Dawn Empress!"

    At this statement, the expressions of the thousands present subtly shifted.

    "Mind your words. Walls have ears. We wouldn''t want those old schrs from the Grand Temple making a fuss," Chen Zhao whispered cautiously.

    "A true man fears no gossip," the man in white armor retorted coldly.

    No one dared to counter. This white-armored figure was the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, holding immense military power. His reputation in the Immortal Army was hard-earned over countless years.

    ncing at Chen Zhao and Chen Mo and then sweeping his gaze over all the n members, he proimed, "You all seem to think that with Ye Xingchen shining brightly and my dear daughter just returning to marry some mortal Sword Cultivator, we''re practically begging to be humiliated. Plus, a girl banished from our nes back in just a year and ns a grand wedding. This act challenges not only that Ye brat but also the Grand Temple, the Ye Royal Family, and the Ancestral Temple, right?"

    The n members collectively inhaled, bowing their heads slightly in silence.

    "Please, rein her in. Now that she''s home, she should keep a low profile, unlike before, to avoid furtherplications. She''s smart. With focus and dedication, she''ll surely match you one day!" Chen Zhao''s voice rose slightly, echoing the sentiment of the entire n.

    "Indeed..."

    "Holding a wedding now is rather embarrassing."

    <i>BUZZ! </i>While they whispered amongst themselves, the man in the white armor abruptly stood up. The atmosphere in the temple vibrated with a humming resonance, an invisible force pressing down on everyone.

    For a moment, the room fell silent, every eye fixed on the man in white armor, whose face was fierce as a tiger.

    "No more wasted words," he dered. "The invitations are ready, and they''ve been sent to all the major forces, Immortals, and factions in the Heavenly Realm. The wedding will take ce at the appointed time. Everyone, get to work!"

    With that, the man in white armor turned and strode towards the exit.

    "Brother!" Chen Zhao rose to his feet, his voice a heavy call, eyes burning as he stared at the retreating figure.

    The white-armored man paused, turning back with an icy re. "Big Brother," he said coldly, "I am the n King. I call the shots here. Understood?"

    "I understand." Chen Zhao sank back into his chair, resting against its back, eyes closing.

    A collective sigh wafted through the room as heads bowed. They all knew the n King was nearly wless in his rule, save for one Achilles heel, his overindulgence towards his daughter. Had he not learned from the disaster a year ago? The invites were sent; there was no turning back now.

    "Tonight, just like a year ago, our n will be theughingstock of the Heavenly Realm," Chen Mo mumbled, sinking into his chair with a defeated expression.

    "Why aim for a mere de of grass when there are brilliant stars in the sky?" murmured some of the older n members. "A de of grass will always be just that, while even the brightest star has its moments of dimness."

    "It''s like staring at a leaf and missing the entire sky," another sighed.

    The older generation recalled the once-close rtionship with the Ye Royal Family. And now? All because of a marriage contract.

    Yet as they stewed in confusion and disappointment, an unexpected interruption came.

    A woman d in orange armor burst into the hall, shouting, "Brothers! Explosive news!"

    Her name was Chen Lin, Chen Xi''s third aunt.

    "What is it?" the man in white armor demanded, the crowd''s confused eyes upon her.

    With a peculiar expression, Chen Lin announced, "Ye Xingchen... he''s been defeated again!"

    "What do you mean?" Chen Zhao, eyes wide in surprise, looked at Chen Lin for rity.

    The news from the Grand Temple was unexpected.

    "They''re saying he practiced a unique cultivation method, which led him astray," Chen Lin shared.

    The room was thick with disbelief. This old story again?

    Chen Mo chuckled. "Sister, does he honestly believe he''ll fool anyone this time?" As Chen Xi''s fifth uncle, Chen Mo had mocked Ye Xingchen the most the first time this tale spun around. He''d been humiliated then, but clearly he''d learned his lesson.

    "He¡¯s probably hoping to fool some demons during the War of Immortals," someone remarked.

    "Well, demons haven''t fallen for that one yet," another whispered, causing a ripple of stifledughter.

    "No, you''re all mistaken," Chen Lin insisted, her tone grave. "I just returned from the academy at the Grand Temple. There''s a big ruckus there. It might be true. Members of the Ye Royal Family, the Ancestral Temple, and powerhouses of the Grand Temple have all tried to help. They say his Dantian has plummeted to the Late Origin Core Realm."

    "Late Origin Core Realm?" There were sideways nces all around. Almost everyone present was beyond that level.

    "Exactly. One''s Dantian doesn''t lie," Chen Lin said, locking eyes with the man in white armor. "Brother, the most crucial bit, his Immortal Meridians are broken! He can''t even fly. Many have seen it with their own eyes."

    His meridians broken? The man in white armor finally seemed shaken.

    "All of them, absolutely certain," Chen Lin stressed.

    "Really broken?" Chen Zhao stood up.

    "If that¡¯s the case," Chen Mo muttered, his heartbeat elerating. Without a doubt, he wished nothing good upon Ye Xingchen.

    The atmosphere shifted, bing electric with tension.

    "Let''s not act rashly," Chen Zhao coughed, breaking the spell. "Let¡¯s gather more information, and observe."

    Chen Mo, though eager, recalled the humiliation of the previous year. "Yes, yes, we need to be careful."

    "Little brother, use your connections. Get a clearer picture," Chen Zhao ordered.

    The man in white armor nodded, remaining quiet.

    "Are we still holding Chen Xi''s wedding?" Chen Lin asked.

    "With his Immortal Meridians broken, he¡¯s worth less than a mere de of grass in the mortal realm," Chen Mo muttered.

    Chen Lin shot him a re. Seeing the man in white armor silent, she knew... the wedding would proceed.

    "Did you send an invitation to Ye Xingchen?" Chen Lin whispered.

    "All sent," the man in white armor replied.

    "He dares toe? Our n will make sure he can enter, but never leave!" Chen Mo said through gritted teeth.

    "Calm down! Don''t let a little sweetness get to your head or you''ll fly too high and fall," Chen Lin admonished.

    "Yes, yes," Chen Mo murmured, deted.

    Chen Mo took a deep breath, turning to the man in the white armor. "Second Brother, I''ll admit, Chen Xi can be quite the handful, but she''s still my niece. I genuinely hope Ye Xingchen faces a fall he can''t rise from. Can you understand that?"

    The man in white armor nced over, dryly retorting, "You''re a good man, if only you weren''t born with a mouth."

    Chen Mo''s face fell nk, lost for words.

    "Little Brother," Chen Lin interjected, "Remember the old saying. Silence is golden."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Within the Grand Temple, there was an elegantly simple courtyard.

    Inside a room, nestled in the nkets, a stunningly beautiful young womany wrapped in Ye Xingchen''s embrace. With a yful glint in her eyes, she traced circles on his chest with her finger, teasingly saying, "You never let me rest. What if I be pregnant because of these long sessions?"

    Chuckling, Ye Xingchen replied, "Our bloodlines are different. It won''t be that easy."

    "Different? Are you saying you''re not human?" She feigned indignation.

    "I descend from ancient Immortal deities," he replied with a lightugh.

    She giggled behind her hand, "If I hadn''t held back just now, you would''ve be an ancestor to those deities."

    Ye Xingchen paused, a yful grin forming, "Mu Lingyi, where did you learn to talk like this?"

    Blushing, she retorted, "Who else? From you, the big bad wolf!"

    The two teased and yed, theirughter filling the room in a scene that left much to the imagination. As their energy waned, the woman settled down.

    In a soft voice, she asked, "Honestly, can you still rise against all odds?"

    Ye Xingchen hesitated, his once bright eyes dimming. "I''m afraid I might''ve truly met my downfall this time," he admitted.

 Chapter 133 - Two-Person Crystal Coffin

    <h4>Chapter 133 - Two-Person Crystal Coffin</h4>

    "Really? You don''t think there''s any way ofing back?" The stunning young woman hesitated, her smile fading, a tinge of red forming in her eyes.

    "Sadly." Ye Xingchen sighed. "It''s beyond my control. My technique had too many uncertainties. In my rush to win the Heavenly Realm''s War of Immortals, I pushed too hard."

    "There''s no way to fix it?" she asked, taking his hand.

    "My Immortal Meridians are severed. Even the gods can''t reverse it. From now on, I''ll just be a humble figure at the Origin Core Realm, finding progress hard." Ye Xingchen looked at her with remorse. "My love, I''m sorry. I never thought I''d plunge into the abyss again."

    "Hubby..." She gripped his hand, tears spilling freely. "Don''t speak like that. I love the person you are. I chose you, and I''ll stand by you, through thick and thin. If you''re strong, we''ll ascend to immortality together. If you''re weak, I will protect you all my life. With me around, no one can belittle you!"

    "Really? I''m deeply moved." Ye Xingchen drew her into his embrace.

    "Huh?" Her eyes widened with suspicion. "Are you tricking me?"

    "Why do you say that?" he asked.

    "Weren''t you in pain? Your hands seem rather mischievous," she remarked.

    "Oh! Emotional pain doesn''t deter the wandering hand!" Ye Xingchen chuckled.

    "Typical..." she paused, pinching his cheek, "You scared me, you rascal!"

    They whispered sweet nothings for a while, then Ye Xingchen said, "Lingyi, you''re the kindest woman in the world. During my hardest times, you were by my side. Now that I''ve fallen again, you still remain steadfast. I will never let you down in this life."

    "Stop it, that''s all in the past," she replied, blushing.

    "I need to say it! Though myst name is Ye, I was a nobody, only an adopted child to the Ye Royal Family. Your father and grandfather govern the Grand Temple. Your status is even higher than Chen Xi''s. She''s blind to my worth, but you saw my potential. You chose me when I was at my lowest. Remember our passionate kiss in front of the ancestral statue The expressions on the faces of the Chen n members? Priceless..." Ye Xingchen said with a lightugh. He had been abandoned by his former fianc¨¦e, butnded a bigger fish!

    "You can talk all you want, but keep your hands to yourself!" The enchanting maiden''s face turned crimson, and she lowered her gaze.

    Just then, a voice outside called for Mu Lingyi.

    "I''ll be right back." She hastily dressed and stepped outside, engaging in a brief conversation. Upon returning, she carefully closed the door, her expression peculiar.

    "Did you hear? Chen Xi returned to the Chen n," she asked.

    In the room, Ye Xingchen, now donned in a white robe, replied nonchntly, "Yes."

    "And you didn''t mention it?"

    "Why bring up a fly I''ve already swatted? If not for her father''s protection, she would''ve been reborn ages ago," Ye Xingchen stated indifferently.

    "Hmm," she said, approaching him. "But I''ve heard she''s advanced to the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm in just a year, even surpassing me."

    "The peak of the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm?" Ye Xingchen seemed momentarily taken aback, thenughed, "Interesting. Looks like she got lucky, not once but twice."

    "Are you worried?" she asked with genuine concern.

    "Heh." Ye Xingchen nced down at a star pagoda mark on his palm, "It''ll all be settled in a few days anyway."

    "Really? Then what do you make of this?" She reached out, presenting a red invitation.

    "What''s this?" After a nce, Ye Xingchen''s face mirrored her earlier perplexity, "What''s she ying at? Returning just to unt her wedding?"

    "Don''t you get it?" she remarked, a hint of annoyance creeping into her voice. "She probably heard about your setback and couldn''t wait to rub it in. She''s clearly not over the humiliation fromst year."

    "She''s up to her old tricks?" Ye Xingchen said, a mixture of amusement and disbelief evident in his voice.

    After a moment, he shook his head, his gaze turning icy, "I''d love for the Chen n to make another move. With the Empress absent, it''s the perfect time to root them out."

    "Do you know who her groom is?" she asked.

    "Yun Xiao?" Ye Xingchen nced at the invitation. "Never heard of him."

    "I heard he''s a Sword Cultivator!" she chimed.

    "A Sword Cultivator?" Ye Xingchen''s eyes lit up, "One of the disciples of those three beautiful sisters?"

    "No!" she pouted, "A Sword Cultivator from the lower realm, in the Early Sovereign Dragon Realm. Three stages above you."

    "Three stages above me?" Ye Xingchen''s gaze grew icy. "That brainless woman really timed this to irk me, didn''t she? She knows I can take on adversaries three stages above mine!"

    "Today, your cultivation plummeted to the Origin Core Realm. And she''s marrying some random mortal Sword Cultivator with great fanfare. It''s just to mock you, suggesting you''re less than a nobody from the mortal realm," the ravishing young woman remarked, sounding quite peeved. "Ever since Chen Xi was young, she''s been arrogant. To get under your skin, she''s even willing to sacrifice her reputation."

    As they spoke, someone approached from outside.

    "It''s my parents. Let''s go greet them," the young woman announced, and both of them headed out.

    Outside, a man and a woman stood waiting. The man, wearing schrly robes with a tall headdress, possessed jade-like features, a long beard, and piercing eyes. The woman wore a long blue dress, her chin slightly pointed, radiating an icy allure. Both emanated a powerful aura.

    "Uncle Tianshi! Aunt Qingli," Ye Xingchen greeted them with full formality.

    "Xingchen, do you think you can restore your cultivation?" The man, known as Mu Tianshi, inquired.

    "I believe I can, but it might take a few years," Ye Xingchen replied, his gaze dropping. "About my marriage with Lingyi, it''s not going to be called off, is it?"

    Mu Tianshi chuckled lightly, "What do you take me for? I''m not like those opportunists of the Chen n."

    The beautiful woman, Ye Qingli, reassured him warmly, "Don''t worry. You have inherited the royal bloodline of our Ye Royal Family. You''re a person of great determination. We know you''ll rise again from these setbacks. We, along with Lingyi, will wait for that day you''re back on top."

    "I promise, I won''t let everyone down," Ye Xingchen dered passionately.

    "Father, Mother, have you heard about Chen Xi''s wedding?" the dazzling youngdy interjected.

    "We have," Mu Tianshi replied with a hint of annoyance. "Those Chen n jesters are at it again, looking to make a spectacle."

    "Clearly, she''s trying to mock and provoke you," Ye Qingli added coldly.

    "It''s obvious, even by the wedding invitation they sent," the young woman bit her lip in irritation.

    "Just ignore them," Ye Qingli advised, looking at Ye Xingchen. "With your current state, focus on your recovery."

    "Right now, rumors might spread throughout the Heavenly Realm about your setback. But stay strong and don''t fall for their schemes," Mu Tianshi cautioned.

    Ye Xingchenughed softly, his eyes brimming with determination. "I must attend this wedding," he suddenly dered.

    "Why, Xingchen? They''ll surely use this opportunity to humiliate you," the ravishing young woman warned anxiously.

    A faint smirk yed on Ye Xingchen''s lips. "In our path of cultivation, it''s all about staying true to our principles. It''s about settling scores. If I don''t even have the courage to face their setup and allow them to trample over me, then where''s my resolve in this path?"

    Mu Tianshi chuckled. "It seems Xingchen has his ns allid out. We shouldn''t worry then."

    "Rx, you don''t have to worry," Ye Xingchen replied calmly. He then gently grasped the hand of the stunning girl beside him. "Lingyi, apany me to the Ghost Market in the West."

    "Why there?" the girl asked.

    "We''re attending a wedding, aren''t we? Shouldn''t we bring a gift?" Ye Xingchen answered with a smirk. "I''m thinking of crafting a two-person crystal coffin! Just in time for the ceremony, I''ll deliver it to the Chen Heavenly Mansion."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a particr courtyard in the Chen Heavenly Mansion, as Yun Xiao entered, a man in white armor sat leisurely in a pavilion and beckoned, "Son-inw,e over."

    Such a natural call made Yun Xiao feel as if he were being set up for a trap by father and daughter.

    Besides the white-armored man, there were two others in the pavilion. One of them took Yun Xiao by surprise. It was Stray Dog! The other, a middle-aged man in a violet robe, wore the attire of a cultured daoist. Clutching a feather fan and sporting a small beard, he looked the very image of a wise and serene Immortal.

    "This is Master Zhao Xuanjian of the Great Dao Pavilion, also a guest of the Spirit Treasure Pce, and one of the few Gxy grade Alchemy Masters'' in the Heavenly Realm. Just call him Uncle Zhao," the white-armored man introduced.

    Hearing the introduction, Yun Xiao realized Zhao Xuanjian''s significance. He had connections with both the Great Dao Pavilion and the Spirit Treasure Pce, not to mention his stature as a supreme alchemy master¡ªa true big shot.

    Having just entered the Chen Heavenly Mansion, Yun Xiao was introduced to a heavyweight of the Heavenly Realm and was told to address him so informally, making things immediately clear.

    "As for this martial genius, I believe you two have already crossed paths," the white-armored man added.

    "Indeed! Yun Xiao and I both had vouchers to the Spirit Treasure Pce. But this fellow here, choosing love over friendship, left me behind," Stray Dog joked, raising an eyebrow teasingly at Yun Xiao.

    "An honor to meet you, Uncle Zhao," Yun Xiao greeted with a respectful bow. Ah, another Zhao¡ªa surname he held in high regard.

    "My young friend, show me your Sword Soul," Zhao Xuanjian stroked his beard, eager to see. "Give your old uncle a treat for the eyes."

    "Hold on." The man in the white armor interjected, eyes on Zhao Xuanjian. "When all the guests arrive, we¡¯ll showcase it."

    "Really?" Zhao Xuanjian shot him a re. "After all these years of friendship, no special privileges for me?"

    "None," the man in white armor replied sinctly.

    "Ah, I get it. You finally married off that wild daughter of yours. Now you¡¯re high and mighty, looking down on me!" Zhao Xuanjian chortled.

    "Wild daughter? At least she''s better than your effeminate son," the white-armored man shot back, a smirk on his face. Even in their age, they bickered like children. True signs of a deep bond.

    "Hmph! Who''s in the mood to argue with you, old man?" Zhao Xuanjian huffed. Turning to Yun Xiao, he sighed, "I heard about you from Qian Qianqian a couple of days ago and wanted toe down to meet you. But that old coot yed his charms and got to you first. How vexing!"

    After a pause, he whispered to Yun Xiao, "If the Chen Heavenly Mansion ever treats you wrong, you can always seek me out at the Spirit Treasure Pce." He specifically mentioned the pce and not the Great Dao Pavilion, because thetter was an honorary title bestowed by the Empress, not a true position of power.

    "Qian Qianqian? <i>Money Moneymoney?</i>" Yun Xiao pondered. Anyone would guess that this was the notorious Madam Qian with her money-obsessed name.

    "Zhao Xuanjian, are you here to congratte or to poach?" The white-armored man raised an eyebrow.

    "I call it winning people over with kindness." Zhao Xuanjian grinned. "Speaking of which... Did you send invitations to those three beauties? Although they keep to themselves, the child is a Sword Emperor!"

    "Invitations were sent," the white-armored man responded simply.

    "Do you think they¡¯lle?" Zhao Xuanjian inquired with a raised brow, a twinkle in his eye. Not many in the Heavenly Realm knew of the matter of Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul.

    "Given their enmity with the Ye Royal Family, they''ll likely avoid it if Ye Qingli and Mu Tianshi are attending," the white-armored man spected.

    "If they do show up, things will surely get lively," Zhao Xuanjian remarked.

    The white-armored man just chuckled.

    "Onest question," Zhao Xuanjian gazed intently at him. "Do you think Ye Xingchen is, well, actually crippled?"

    "Whether he is or not doesn''t matter," the white-armored man replied, his gaze shifting to Yun Xiao. "What I do know is, those who show off too much often meet their end by that very pride."

    With that, he stood up, giving Zhao Xuanjian a tug. "Come on, let¡¯s greet the guests!"

 Chapter 134 - Time for the Celebration

    <h4>Chapter 134 - Time for the Celebration</h4>

    At the heart of the Chen Heavenly Mansion, within the Dawn Pavilion, a delicate window framed a certain scene¡ªa beauty, in the midst of her makeup routine.

    Yun Xiao stood behind, watching her d in scarlet, a bit dazed.

    Her white tiger mask had been removed. Her hair cascaded like a waterfall, and those captivating eyes gazed deeply into a bronze mirror, shrouded in a mystic haze. At this moment, she bore no disguise, exuding the will of an Empress of the Immortal Empire.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao folded the white attire gifted by Zhao Xuanran and carefully ced it into his Pouch of Holding. He, too, donned a red ensemble.

    "Can I skip wearing this hat?" Yun Xiao fiddled with it, visibly frustrated.

    "Wear it," Chen Xi replied, rising and moving towards him. Up close, her red gown trailed the ground, her lips med, and her eyesmanded¡ªher presence was formidable!

    Against her stunning appearance and demeanor, only the current Yun Xiao could hold his ground. Thed, with a touch of grooming, looked as charming as a prince; starry eyes, sword-like brows, and a posture as straight as a de, his fingers long and dreamlike.

    Chen Xi, with her long gown trailing, approached him, reaching out to help him with his groom''s crown. Though silent, her actions radiated a domineering grace.

    "This get-up feels ufortable all over; I''ll wear it for just an hour," Yun Xiao dered. Apparently, he still preferred his Senior Sister Zhao''s white robes¡ªunrestrained, rxed, without bindings.

    "As you wish," Chen Xi replied, ncing outside where lights sparkled and drums resonated, bustling with excitement. She pursed her lips. "The hour is nearing, and the guests are almost all here."

    "Indeed, but before the ceremony, I have two questions," Yun Xiao stated earnestly.

    "Speak," Chen Xi responded, her cold eyes fixed on him.

    "First question. What''s the dowry? Is it payable now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Dowry?" Chen Xi paused, bemused, "Money-mad much? There''s no dowry!"

    "No dowry? What kind of woman are you!" Yun Xiao scoffed.

    Chen Xi was speechless.

    "No dowry is fine," Yun Xiao peered outside, "I can vaguely hear that many have brought gifts. I demand half of them!"

    "Keep dreaming, they''re for my father!" Chen Xi retorted.

    "Damn!" Yun Xiao eximed, ready to tear off his groom''s attire. "I won''t wed. Go marry a dog for all I care!"

    "Wait!" Chen Xi bit her lip, eyeing him for a long moment beforepromising, "Rest assured, I''ll pay you afterward."

    "After the wedding ceremony?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    "After the wedding night..." Chen Xi replied.

    "What...?" Yun Xiao blurted in a daze. Eventually, he broke the silence that had lingered longer than wee. "After the wedding night...?" he repeated, incredulity in in his voice.

    Chen Xi responded with a sly smirk, "Exactly."

    For a fleeting moment, he was lost for words. "Are you pulling my leg?"

    "What did you expect?" Chen Xi replied with a mock exasperation. "Did you think I was in a rush to marry you because of some grand scheme?"

    The thought had, indeed, crossed Yun Xiao¡¯s mind. Perhaps the wedding was merely a ruse, a clever diversion leading to chaos and bloodshed.

    "No schemes," she assured.

    His skepticism evident, Yun Xiao questioned further, "Then why marry me?"

    She met his eyes, her gaze unwavering, "If we don¡¯t get married, how do we spend the wedding night? Do you think that¡¯d be appropriate?"

    He was struck dumb, and his face turned an amusing shade of red. Slipping outside, he whispered to his little confidantes, "Blue Star, Red Moon, you need to keep an eye on this Divine Dawn Empress. I have a feeling I need to make an escape."

    The bbergasted Blue Star responded, "Why?"

    "I must protect my innocence," Yun Xiao whispered, as if revealing a state secret.

    Red Moon snorted withughter. "Your innocence? It reincarnated ages ago!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Meanwhile, the grandeur of the Chen Heavenly Mansion was on full disy. The central hall, the most solemn and exquisite ce in the entire mansion, opened its doors only for the grandest of asions. The Chen n, a major family in the Heavenly Realm, had their roots deep in the fabric of the Immortal Empire. Their influence and alliances spanned generations.

    Despite the sudden and odd nature of the wedding announcement, figures of power from across the Heavenly Realm arrived promptly, bearing gifts of great value. Exquisite gifts piled up, from elixirs and artifacts to precious minerals, arcane techniques, and ancient scrolls, attesting to the Chen n¡¯s lofty status.

    In a mere three hours, the hall swelled with ten thousand guests. Immersed in an aura of celestial energy, they resembled the very definition of immortals, radiating an otherworldly wisdom.

    Distinguished officials from the Six Immortal Divisions, royalty from the Ancestral Temple, generals from the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, and heads of various major alliances in the Heavenly Realm¡ªall were present. Their sheer number and the aura of power they exuded signaled the importance of this union.

    It wasn¡¯t just any wedding; it was <i>the</i> wedding of the Immortal Empire. The astounding part? It was all organized in just three hours. One could only imagine the influence of the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    The glittering array of gifts showcased the might of the Chen n. In the Heavenly Realm of the Immortal Empire, when it came to family heritage, only the Ye Royal Family could outshine the Chen n.

    And now, as the hour approached, the central hall of the Chen Heavenly Mansion buzzed with excitement.

    Clusters of guests huddled, their expressions a mix of curiosity and amusement. The topic of choice? The gossip that was as spicy as the food.

    "After Ye Xingchen''s fall from grace, Chen Xi returned to the Heavenly Realm with the prowess of the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm and hurriedly arranged her wedding. She''s looking to step on Ye Xingchen, the Grand Temple, and the Ye Royal Family," one guest whispered.

    "Rumor has it the groom is just a Sword Cultivator from the lower realms, in the Early Sovereign Dragon Realm. If Ye Xingchen dares to show up tonight, oh, what a show that''ll be!" another chimed in.

    In short, everyone smelled drama and rushed to grab a front-row seat.

    "The rupture of his Immortal Meridians! If the Ye prodigy falls, the humiliation would scorch deeper than before," someone mused.

    Another scoffed, "The Chen n is truly savage. They plucked someone from the lower realm just to mock Ye Xingchen. Is this their way of proving that breaking off the engagement was the right choice?"

    The murmur of opinions spread like wildfire, seemingly uncontroble. Though hushed, the words were daggers, piercing hearts and stirring trouble.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the head of the central hall sat the day''s honored guests. The eldest brother of the Chen n, Chen Zhao, and his fifth brother, Chen Mo, yed host.

    Given the unusual circumstances of the day, many of the Immortal Empire''s bigwigs simply sat in contemtive silence.

    After some time, a dashing middle-aged man, dressed in luxurious robes, took his seat, guided by members of the Chen n.

    "Minister of Rites, wee," Chen Zhao greeted as he rose from his seat.

    The Minister of Rites was one of the six leaders of the Six Immortal Divisions. He was in charge of the Ministry of Rites, which oversaw the empire''s rituals. The Immortal Empire prided itself on tradition and etiquette. This Minister, Han Jingli, was a top figure in the empire. In terms of power and position, he was just a notch below the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    "Magistrate Chen, you honor me with your courtesy," Han Jingli said as he took his seat. With a perfectly poised smile and impable manners, he made one feel as if caressed by a spring breeze.

    Chen Zhao, the eldest in his family, currently represented the Chen n at the Ancestral Temple, holding the position of Magistrate. The Ancestral Temple was an entity separate from the Immortal Empire''s authority. It symbolized the interests of the Immortal Empire''s major ancient ns. Presently, the Ancestral Temple was dominated by the Ye Royal Family, with dozens of other ns within its ranks.

    These ns formed a crucialponent of the Immortal Empire. The Ancestral Temple had always been the left hand and the right arm of the Immortal Emperor... until the Divine Dawn Empress ascended the throne.

    After settling in, Han Jingli gave Chen Zhao a knowing look andmented, "Magistrate Chen, after tonight, your Chen n is set to rise."

    Chen Zhao replied calmly, "Minister Han jests."

    "No," Han Jingli raised an eyebrow slightly, "With Ye Xingchen out of the picture and the Empress suppressing the Ye Royal Family, I believe their days of glory are numbered."

    Chen Zhao''s brow twitched, his voice low, "Master Han, be careful with your words."

    Han Jingli chuckled softly, sipping his tea, his tone dripping with sarcasm, "In the Heavenly Realm''s Ancestral Temple, which n would be the foremost? I''d say, it''s yours, the Chen."

    "No, no, it should be your Han n. With the numerous prodigies from your family and three spots on the Grand Temple''s list, who are we topete?" Chen Zhao replied coolly.

    "Magistrate Chen, having three spots means nothing if not on top. One hand of your Chen Xi surpasses all three," Han Jingli remarked, eyes narrowing, "With Ye Xingchen now a non-issue, Chen Xi is destined for the pinnacle."

    "You seem more talkative than usual today, Master Han," Chen Lin interjected from the side.

    "Is that so?" Han Jingli replied with a radiant smile, "I''m simply rejoicing for your Chen n."

    Han Jingli, a renowned handsome man of the Immortal Empire, always wore a standardized smile. Yet, for some inexplicable reason, every member of the Chen n felt an overwhelming urge to punch him right in that too-perfect face.

    Meanwhile, the auspicious hour was rapidly approaching.

    A hush fell over the hall as Han Jingli gazed towards the inner chamber of the Chen Heavenly Mansion, where the bride and groom were about to make their appearance. "I''m quite curious," he mused with a glint in his eye, "about this new groom whom the Chen n holds in such high regard."

    The mere mention of Yun Xiao caused a contemtive silence between Chen Zhao and Chen Mo.

    "I heard he''s a Sword Cultivator from the lower realm, at the Early Sovereign Dragon Realm," an attendant of Han Jingli remarked, an odd expression on his face.

    "Oh?" Han Jingli responded with a theatrical gasp. "A hidden gem, I suppose? Perhaps his Sword Soul is in the Upper Neb grade?"

    Thisment only deepened the perplexed looks around him.

    Chen Zhao gently curled his hand around the armrest of his chair. "Master Han, would you care for some tea?" he offered, his voice dripping with unsaid implications.

    The tension in Chen n''s central hall was palpable.

    As the auspicious time drew near, all eyes turned towards the grand entrance of the Chen Heavenly Mansion.

    "No representatives from the Grand Temple or the Ye Royal Family?" someone whispered.

    "And the three Sword Cultivation lineages are conspicuously absent."

    Such absences dimmed the spirits of those who''de hoping for a spectacle. "Guess we''ll just have to settle for gawking at the Chen n''s son-inw," someone sighed.

    At that moment, a man in white armor strode into the hall, taking his seat of honor amid a chorus of greetings.

    "The moment is upon us!" the Master of Ceremonies announced.

    In the side chamber, Chen Xi draped the red veil over her own head and took Yun Xiao''s hand. "What''s your father''s name?" he suddenly asked.

    "Chen Xiao," she replied with a soft smile.

    "That sounds like our future son''s name," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Yep, he''ll take after his mother''s surname. Speaks to my status, after all." Chen Xi chuckled.

    "Wait... Let''s talk this out." Yun Xiao hurriedly replied.

    Unbeknownst to them, the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army in the main hall was utterly bemused by the couple''s casual chatter.

    As they stepped out, all eyes were on Yun Xiao. Whispers rippled through the crowd.

    "This... this is the groom?"

    "I get it now. Chen Xi, that sly fox, she''s all about good looks!"

    "I initially thought she''d marry any old schmuck from the mortal realm just to spite Ye Xingchen. But look at them! A match made in heaven¡ªbeauty and the beau!"

 Chapter 135 - Give this Man Another Oscar!

    <h4>Chapter 135 - Give this Man Another Oscar!</h4>

    As Yun Xiao entered, the reactions of the men were varied, but the eyes of many of the women sparkled with intrigue. The women leaned closer, whispering among themselves.

    "To be honest, he''s even more handsome than the Minister of Rites was in his youth."

    "Absolutely!"

    So many shared this sentiment that even Han Jingli, who might have overheard, couldn''t bring himself to be mad.

    He cast Yun Xiao a look and silently conceded, "This new son-inw of the Chen n is indeed as handsome as a willow in the wind, a genuine talent. Perhaps one day he could be rmended to my division, serving as the face of the Immortal Empire." Han Jingli remarked inly.

    Chen Lin chuckled, "On Yun Xiao''s behalf, I thank Minister Han for his appreciation. However, now that he''s part of the Chen n, I believe my elder brother would prefer him to hone his skills in the Nine Heavens Immortal Army."

    "That''s true. Especially since he possesses a Upper Neb grade Sword Soul," Han Jingli said with a smile that didn''t quite reach his eyes.

    Upon hearing this, Chen Zhao nearly choked with indignation.

    Within the Ancestral Temple, the Han n was seen as subservient to the Ye Royal Family, always charging forward on their behalf, naturally making them enemies with the Chen n. To constantly praise Yun Xiao as having a Upper Neb grade Sword Soul was purely to irritate them. Of course, he didn''t believe Yun Xiao possessed any kind of talent.

    By then, Yun Xiao and Chen Xi were standing before the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, Chen Xiao.

    The crowd from the Immortal Empire buzzed with discussion, casting odd nces at Yun Xiao.

    The Master of Ceremonies was preparing to make an announcement when Chen Xiao suddenly fixed his gaze on Yun Xiao, his voice deep and resonant, "Son-inw! Show our honored guests your Sword Soul!"

    The room fell into immediate silence.

    Even the Minister of Rites, Han Jingli, paused, setting down his tea cup, his expression turning frosty.

    "What''s big brother up to?" Chen Mo asked, puzzled.

    Chen Zhao and Chen Lin both wore expressions of mild confusion. Wasn''t this the auspicious moment for the wedding ceremony? Showcasing his Sword Soul now?

    In an instant, the attention of the thousands present honed in on the scene.

    "Yes." With a slight nod, Yun Xiao turned to face the esteemed figures of the Heavenly Realm and the Immortal Empire. He concentrated, and from his palm, an azure Sword Soul shot into the sky!

    The Sword Soul pulsated with a dense swirl of azure Sword Aura. Surrounding it were the four elemental Sword Rings of water, fire, wind, and thunder, winding around the sword like dragons. Waves, raging fire, storms, and thunder¡ªthese four mystical manifestations generated a chilling and solemn aura, captivating everyone present.

    "A hundredyer Sword Aura?"

    "Four Sword Rings?!"

    The hundredyer Sword Aura was not the main attraction, that wasmon for those descended from the Heavenly Realm. But those Four Sword Rings, that was the showstopper.

    "Gxy grade! A genuine Sword Emperor!"

    Even in the Immortal Empire''s Heavenly Realm, voices of astonishment rose in waves upon seeing this Gxy grade Sword Soul.

    Thousands of eyes stayed transfixed on the Heaven Burial Sword Soul for a good while. Then, the way they looked at Yun Xiaopletely transformed.

    Chen Xiao didn''t intend for his son-inw to hold back. As soon as he stepped onto the scene, out came the sword. And with that sword''s appearance, the entire audience tightened up!

    "I always said the Chen n wasn''t one for child''s y," someone murmured.

    "Our bad. We were short-sighted," another conceded.

    Among the throng of ten thousand, awkward nces and sheepish smiles were exchanged. But of all present, none wore difort more inly than Han Jingli.

    "Gxy grade?" Han Jingli fixed his gaze on the disy, his expression freezing over.

    "Ah, our esteemed Minister Han," Chen Lin remarked after a beat, a sly grin ying on her lips. "With his heavenly foresight, he precisely anticipated the caliber of our new inw''s Sword Soul."

    Chen Mo rubbed his eyes for a better look, thenughed heartily. "You weren''t far off, Minister Han! Impressive."

    Chen Zhao added in a voice dripping with amusement, "It''s only Gxy grade. Hardly noteworthy. Certainly not worth the attention of Minister Han''s discerning gaze."

    It wasn''t just Han Jingli who was stunned¡ªeven the three of them felt the weight of the revtion. Internally, they criticized Chen Xiao for not briefing them, but seeing Han Jingli''s feignedposure? Oh, it was satisfying.

    Upper Neb grade? As if! A Sword Emperor was on apletely different ne of existence!

    Han Jingli maintained his silence for a while before his face cracked into a strained smile. "This young man is the first Sword Emperor since the fall of the ancient Sword Realm," he said with a touch of grudging respect. "Congrattions to the Chen n! With such shifts in fortune, you''re well on your way to bing the foremost n in the Heavenly Realm."

    Murmurs rippled through the vast assembly of guests.

    "The future pir of the Ye Royal Family has once again faltered, while the Chen n boasts two rising stars?"

    "The tides are turning."

    "Just a year ago, who would''ve thought there''d be a twist in the tale, with Ye Xingchen stepping over Chen Xi in revenge?"

    The emergence of the Sword Emperor, coupled with the return of the young woman at the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, cast a contemtive shadow over the crowd.

    "Hosting the wedding right now, and inducting the Immortal Empire''s top Sword Cultivator into their ranks? The Supreme Marshal''s move is sheer genius!" onemented.

    In a heartbeat, Yun Xiao, having just entered the fray, instantly became the talk of the Heavenly Realm.

    "It''s time for the ceremony!" Chen Xi observed the guests, whose admiration was palpable, and felt a surge of satisfaction. Yun Xiao''s disy had earned him immense respect, turning public opinion on its head.

    "Yes." The master of ceremonies grin stered across his face, stood to one side and proimed, "Ladies and gentlemen, we present the bride and groom. Now, for the first b¡ª"

    <i>CRASH! </i>The master of ceremonies was interrupted as a blue-glowing, heavy object suddenly crashed behind Yun Xiao and Chen Xi.

    "What the...?"

    Eyes turned, and the crowd audibly gasped.

    It was a giant crystal coffin,rge enough to fit two people!

    "Who dares to be so audacious?!"

    Tens of thousands felt their hearts skip a beat. This was, after all, the Chen n''s grand wedding, an asion of immense celebration. For someone to throw a double-sized coffin and disrupt the ceremony was an unparalleled act of humiliation.

    "Congrattions to the Chen n! A humble student of the Grand Temple''s academy, Ye Xingchen, is here to send his best wishes. As a gift, one luxurious double-sized crystal coffin!" As a clear, melodious voice rang out, a young man in white, eyes serene, stepped into the spotlight. With all eyes on him, he gracefully strode down the red carpet, exuding an air of supreme confidence.

    At that moment, a familiar scene cast a shadow over the hearts of thousands. Him again! This monstrosity had an uncanny talent for crashing the party at the most inconvenient times. The crowd first nced at him, then at the double-sized crystal coffin he''d brought. Their thoughts were unanimous: That''s some serious gall!

    Absolutely audacious! The Chen n was a venerable house in the Heavenly Realm. Among the guests were dignitaries from the Immortal Empire. And here he was, not just interrupting the wedding ceremony but also bringing in a damn coffin?

    The young man, face full of feigned blessings, turned to Yun Xiao and Chen Xi, and said sincerely, "I present this coffin as my gift, wishing the happy couple a life and death together. May you live as beautiful immortals and die as inseparable spirits. Hand in hand for lifetimes, never to part!"

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>The moment those words left his lips, every member of the Chen n shot to their feet. Their eyes zed with fury, faces twisted in anger, and fists clenched, all aimed at the audacious youth in white.

    At this moment, Mu Tianshi, Ye Qingli, and a stunning young woman in a short light-blue dress, walked up behind the youth in white.

    Even with Chen Xi''s face veiled in red, this breathtaking woman became the center of attention. She delicately held onto the arm of the youth, representing the Grand Temple''s staunch support for Ye Xingchen even in adverse times.

    A hushed silence fell upon the hall. This wedding had been more than just interrupted; it felt like someone had thrown mud on it.

    "Ye Xingchen!" Chen Mo''s eyes seared with fury, "You''ve crossed the line!"

    "You''ve truly misunderstood," the youth in white replied with a light smile. "I''m merely offering my sincere blessings. Chen Xi has finally met someone worthy of her. I heard he''s a Sword Emperor? Definitely a lot cooler than me."

    With that, he wrapped his arm around Mu Lingyi''s waist, intending to take his seat

    "Halt!" Suddenly, a twisted, suppressed shout echoed.

    All eyes turned, and there stood Yun Xiao, his face contorted in anger, stepping towards the youth in white. He sneered, "Ye Xingchen, I know of the feud between you and my beloved Chen Xi. A year ago, you already humiliated her. Whye back to harass her again today?"

    Ye Xingchen chuckled lightly, "My dear friend, you misunderstand. This crystal coffin is quite pricey. They say every groom deserves a fine coffin, and this one¡¯s perfectly tailored for you."

    "Shut up!" Yun Xiao''s fists clenched, his brows furrowing in rage. "Your Immortal Meridians are severed. You''re nothing but a wastrel. Yet, you dare humiliate the Chen Heavenly Mansion, all because the Grand Temple shelters you?"

    Holding the hand of the delicate Mu Lingyi, Ye Xingchen shrugged with a cheeky grin, "Yes, I do. What of it?"

    He was here to crash the party, after all.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao snarled, a twisted smile forming, "You slight me, insult my wife, and tarnish my n''s reputation. Do you think I, a man of honor, would let a waste like you walk over me?"

    "You truly live up to the title of Sword Emperor. Impressive! I''m scared!" Ye Xingchen responded, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

    At this, Mu Tianshi interjected, "Xingchen, the gift has been given. There''s no need to linger. Let''s go."

    "Hubby, don''t waste your breath on these fair-weathered fools," Mu Lingyi whispered.

    "Let''s leave," Ye Qingli softly said to the youth in white. "Maintain your dignity today. They can''t hold you here with us around."

    "Ye Xingchen!" Yun Xiao, cutting off Ye Qingli''sforting words, pointed at the youth and dered, "Today is a day of joy for me, and I won''t have this central hall tainted by your foul presence. In one month, I challenge you to a duel. If you lose, kneel and bow before the Chen Heavenly Mansion for three days."

    "One month?" Ye Xingchen replied nonchntly, "Sure. And if you lose?"

    "I''ll shatter my sword and perish," Yun Xiao coldly stated, "Do you have the guts to ept?"

    "Alright, then. One month it is," Ye Xingchen nodded in agreement.

    So quick to agree?

    "Yun Xiao, don''t wait a month! He''s just been defeated today. Don''t give him the chance!" Chen Mo urgently advised.

    "Oh, alright." Yun Xiao nodded in understanding, swiftly changing his challenge. "No! You''ve insulted me today; today we settle it! As the top disciple of the Grand Temple, do you dare ept my challenge?"

    Both Mu Tianshi and Ye Qingli were frowning in concern, but at that moment, Ye Xing Chen unexpectedly let go of the hand of the stunning youngdy beside him.

    "Why not today?" Ye Xingchen said nonchntly.

    "Then let''s do it now!" Yun Xiao said with a chilling sneer.

    "Where shall we duel?" Ye Xingchen arched an eyebrow.

    "Right here! After I finish you off, I''ll toss you into that coffin and send you on your way," Yun Xiao huffed.

    "Very well," Ye Xingchen sighed resignedly.

    Hearing this exchange, the tens of thousands of guests in attendance blinked in surprise.

    "On the day of the wedding, a duel over a coffin... As Chen Xi''s betrothed, Yun Xiao can''t let Ye Xingchen''s insult slide. Not if he wants to hold his head high ever again!"

    "But the thing is, I can''t believe Ye Xingchen actually agreed! His Immortal Meridians are severed, what''s he relying on?"

    "Does Ye Xingchen still think he''s still at the top of the Grand Temple''s Dragon Ranking? Does he even know what the Sword Emperor means?"

    "No matter how you see it, Yun Xiao is right to press for an immediate duel! It''s clear that Ye Xingchen''s foundational cultivation is at its weakest today!"

    With things having escted to this point, how could the situation be defused without blood being shed?

    From the beginning, both Chen Xiao and his daughter Chen Xi remained silent.

    And all the powerful beings from the Immortal Empire? They simply watched the drama unfold, maintaining their own silence.

    Finally, Chen Xiao simply said, "Fight!"

 Chapter 136 - You Have a Sword? No! I HAVE a Sword!

    <h4>Chapter 136 - You Have a Sword? No! I HAVE a Sword!</h4>

    The moment Chen Xiao spoke, the atmosphere in the Chen n''s grand hall turned scalding and somber.

    Ye Xingchen and Yun Xiao! One represented the Grand Temple and the Ye Royal Family; the other stood for the Chen n and the Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    A year ago, Chen Xi had been brutally defeated, allowing Ye Xingchen to rise, sweeping through the Immortal Empire with resolute force. Now, with the wedding turned into an insult, their rtionship was like oil and water.

    Inside the central hall, thousands of guests, sensing the brewing conflict, voluntarily vacated their seats, allowing space for the potential duel. In the center, two young men stood face to face¡ªone in fiery red, seething with anger, the other in serene white.

    "Xingchen," began an old man in gray robes, speaking from a mark on Ye Xingchen''s hand. "From what I gather, Chen Xi''s marriage to that Sword Immortal of the Gxy grade wasn''t really intended to insult you, contrary to the rumors."

    Ye Xingchen cast a nce at Chen Xi, replying nonchntly, "She called off our wedding. She thinks she can marry someone else in this lifetime? I won''t kill her, but for every man she chooses, I''ll kill them instead. So, what if I''m petty? I am Ye Xingchen, after all!"

    The old man in gray robes chuckled in exasperation. "You truly are your father''s son. The number of people who''ve regretted crossing paths with your family... they must''ve umted lifetimes of bad karma."

    "And what kind of man is my father?" Ye Xingchen''s eyes brimmed with reverence at the memory. His life''s mission was to protect his family.

    "Someone who''d obliterate whole worlds over a slight," the gray-robed man reminisced, rubbing his temples as if the mere memory induced a headache.

    "Exactly! Insult me a little, and I''ll annihte generations of your lineage. That''s acting from the heart," Ye Xingchen dered passionately. "Once I fully absorb the power of this Cosmic Star, not even a fly from the Chen n will survive. Dared to call off our wedding? Will her death not be a fitting tribute to my unparalleled destiny?"

    "Your fervor truly surpasses even your father''s," the gray-robed old man remarked, torn betweenughter and tears.

    Ye Xingchen''s gaze sharpened, whispering, "Old man, just how powerful is a Gxy grade Sword Immortal?"

    "You''re scared?" the old man teased with a sly grin.

    "I''ve always let my enemies underestimate me, but I never underestimate others," Ye Xingchen said coolly.

    "That''s a good habit!" The old man, known as Grandpa Pagoda, nced at Yun Xiao, chuckling. "Given your background and resources, the Gxy grade is... well, rather ordinary for you. Once you''ve absorbed two Cosmic Stars, you''ll be able to reforge your meridians into the Nine Heavens Star Meridians. Your realm may have declined, but your ability to ovee challenges has risen once more. Just keep his Sword Soul at bay."

    "I understand," Ye Xingchen nodded seriously.

    "That fellow''s so superficial. It''s clear he''s not up to par. Just a random cat or dog," Grandpa Pagodaughed.

    "Mm-hmm!" Ye Xingchen joined in with a smile.

    Across from him, Yun Xiao was also whispering with Blue Star.

    "Why''s he still talking with that old lingering spirit?" Yun Xiao was getting impatient. Everyone was watching, after all.

    "It''s fine, let him chat," Blue Star grinned. "After all, you''re about to strike it rich!"

    It was a Seed of Creation! An Immortal Meridians type!

    "When the fight starts, you should hold back a bit. I want to gauge his strength," Blue Star whispered secretly.

    "Don''t hold back one bit? Got it!" Yun Xiao maintained his ''furious'' demeanor. <i>HUM! </i>With a single step forward, the gstones beneath him shattered, sending shards flying toward Ye Xingchen.

    "Do we have a sword sealing formation?" Yun Xiao gritted his teeth and asked.

    "What''s a sword sealing formation?" Chen Mo nearby asked, puzzled.

    "It''s a formation that seals an area, so that no one from the outside can interfere, even if someone is about to be killed." Yun Xiao exined.

    "Sealed area? A duel to the death?" Chen Mo''s eyes widened in surprise. "Thisd''s got a fire in his belly and guts to match!"

    Yun Xiao red coldly at Ye Xingchen. "I''ve changed my mind. I challenge you to a duel to the death under the sealed battlefield. Do you dare?"

    "No more forcing me to kneel for three days?" Ye Xingchen asked with a wry smile.

    "You, a worthless wretch, wouldn''t be worth watching even on your knees. Once I kill you, I''ll still be getting married," Yun Xiao said with a snarl.

    "Alright then," Ye Xingchen replied nonchntly.

    "Well, aren''t you brave? Fitting for the once top student of the Grand Temple," Yun Xiao said with a face full of disdain.

    Chen Mo sneered. "Mu Tianshi, Ye Qingli, any objections?"

    The couple exchanged nces with Ye Xingchen.

    "Mom, Dad, trust my hubby. These lowlifes just don''t learn their lessons," Mu Lingyi said, visibly annoyed by Yun Xiao''s arrogance.

    "Seal it!" Mu Tianshi dered, his eyes sharp. He agreed to the duel.

    The crowd gasped, realizing that blood was going to be spilled.

    "Reduced to nothing, and yet he stilles to my Chen Heavenly Mansion seeking death?" Chen Mo said resentfully, ncing at Ye Xingchen.

    Chen Mo promptly activated a sealing formation, trapping the furious Yun Xiao and Ye Xingchen within a domedbat zone.

    "This won''t interfere with the wedding ceremonyter." Chen Mo chuckled sinisterly.

    "Unless there''s no groom left," Ye Qingli quipped.

    "My soon-to-be nephew is a Sword Emperor! This crippled boy will soon know the harsh realities!" Chen Mo scoffed.

    As the sealing formation, buzzing with raw energy, locked the two young men inside, the crowd held their breath and watched in silence.

    "Fight!" The crowd''s roar pierced the air.

    Inside the sealed arena, the tension had hit a peak. Yun Xiao''s face contorted with anger. Across from him, Ye Xingchen''s expression was the very picture of calm. The odds seemed clear.

    "Make your move." Ye Xingchen murmured with a smirk. His eyes slightly widened, a faint luminescence dancing within their depths. His once-fractured Immortal Meridians now sparkled, connecting like stars in a constetion.

    "You''re so pathetic I doubt you could even handle a single stroke of my sword!" Yun Xiao taunted, channeling his inner Holy Son Chu. Holding the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, a tempestuous concoction of water, fire, wind, and thunder erupted around him, turning the arena into a tumultuous storm.

    Ye Xingchen simply smiled. Inside his Dantian, a dazzling, starry core burst forth with an energy that not only surpassed the Late Origin Core Realm but even reached the power levels of the Late Sovereign Dragon Realm. This potency, however, remained locked within him, undetectable to outsiders.

    "Yun Xiao really is something else!"

    "Ye Xingchen, relying only on his Origin Core Realm power, doesn''t stand a chance..."

    Eyebrows twitched in anticipation. From an outsider''s perspective, it was hard to fathom any strategy Ye Xingchen might deploy.

    "Nephew-inw, finish him with a single strike!" Chen Mo bellowed, confidence oozing from every word.

    "Don''t you worry, Uncle Five!" In Yun Xiao''s grip, the Sword Soul transformed into a Flying Sword, its aura fierce, radiating an enchanting and overwhelming might of a Sword Cultivator that captivated the audience.

    "Ye Xingchen! I''ll grant you the chance to strike first!" Yun Xiao sneered menacingly.

    "I insist, you first. As a show of respect to a true Sword Immortal like you, I''ll also use my treasured magic sword," Ye Xingchen replied with a gentle chuckle, caressing the weapon sheathed on his waist.

    "Oh, you have a sword too? Alright then!" Yun Xiao said. Like Blue Star said, he wouldn''t hold back!

    Without a moment''s hesitation, Yun Xiao channeled all his magic power into the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. Inside his Dantian, the nine primordial void dragons roared in unison. His magic power, although at the Early Sovereign Dragon Realm, rivaled that of someone at the Establishment Sovereign Dragon Realm. The might of the nine dragons converged onto the Sword Soul, where the forces of life and death violently shed.

    With a deafening roar, Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword lunged forward.

    <i>Sun Moon Divine Light, Rainbow Through the Sun!</i>

    This was, without doubt, the most potent sword strike Yun Xiao had ever unleashed.

    <i>KLANG! </i>A blinding sh of white light burst forth and zipped through the air, the sound of its flight echoing throughout the area. But light traveled faster than sound.

    "Oh...?" Just as Ye Xingchen prepared to draw his own sword and counter, the bright sh blinded him momentarily.

    It was in that split second, when he reached up and touched his forehead, that he felt the warm blood gushing out. The back of his head was bleeding too. Pierced straight through by a sword!

    It happened so swiftly.

    "Huh?" As darkness began to cloud Ye Xingchen''s vision and the world spun around him, an excruciating pain shot through his brain.

    "Grandpa Pagoda, this isn''t how the script is supposed to go..." Ye Xingchen muttered hisst breath. In the final moment before his consciousness faded, he saw the groom¡ªwho had always appeared enraged and thoughtless¡ªstaring back at him with an ancient and suffocating indifference.

    <i>HUM! </i>Yun Xiao caught the azure Sword Soul in mid-air. "There can only be one!"

    With a swift movement, Yun Xiao appeared right in front of the young man in white, and with a fierce thrust, his de pierced straight through Ye Xingchen''s heart.

    With a sickening squelch, the azure longsword pierced through Ye Xingchen''s Dantian once again.

    <i>SLASH SLASH SLASH! </i>In a gruesome flourish, Yun Xiao delivered five sessive strikes, severing Ye Xingchen''s head and limbs. His now six-part bodyy motionless in a pool of his own blood. His eyes, wide with shock, stared up at the sky. In theirst moments, they betrayed a hint of confusion.

    And that so-called mindless groom, Yun Xiao, nted his foot on Ye Xingchen''s face, spitting disdainfully into his mouth. "After all that buildup, I thought you''d put up more of a fight. Where''s the hidden trump card, the reverse face-pping? Is that all you''ve got?" he sneered.

    The scene unfolded faster than lightning, too swift for many to even grasp. Such was the way of Sword Cultivators¡ªswift, brutal, and final. With Yun Xiao''s skills towering over Ye Xingchen''s by three stages, how could they be of the same caliber?

    The first to break the stunned silence, oddly enough, was Chen Mo.

    "Wow. This is the first time I haven''t put my own foot in my mouth...!" Chen Mo muttered in a daze. Then, he lightly coughed and turned to the crowd. With his hands on his hip and a smug smile on his face, he crowed, "See! What did I tell you all! A mere weakling dares to challenge my family''s honor? My nephew-inw has surely shown him the harsh reality. What a waste! There wasn¡¯t even a hint of suspense."

    Gazing once more at Ye Xingchen''s mutted remains, he burst intoughter. "The foresight of Young Master Ye was impable! Preparing a spacious coffin in advance, knowing he''d be sliced into pieces. At least he''ll travel to theherworld in style."

    In the central hall of the Chen n, only Chen Mo''s voice echoed. Every other individual seemed frozen, too stunned to move.

    Many had believed that Ye Xingchen, daring to challenge openly, might have an ace up his sleeve. But he was dispatched...just like that. This was, after all, one of the most buzzed-about figures in the Heavenly Realm''s Immortal Empire over the past year. The treasured prodigy of the Ye Imperial Family and the Grand Temple...

    "Darn it!" Han Jingli, the head of the Ministry of Rites, who had never once uttered a curse in his life, suddenly crushed the teacup in his hand.

    "Damn!" Chen Zhao and Chen Lin exchanged nces, both equally unnerved. They hadn''t known what to expect before the fight, and the oue had them both on edge. And just as another member of the audience seemed about to swear... among the gathered thousands, they stood frozen, statues in a tableau.

    Every eye, every face turned toward three figures¡ªMu Tianshi, Ye Qingli, and the breathtakingly beautiful young woman, Mu Lingyi.

    While the crowd resembled wooden dummies, these three looked worse off: they were pale and twisted, resembling three corpses anchored to the earth, shivering from head to toe.

    "Xingchen..." Mu Lingyi''s eyes blinked repeatedly.

    The hand that had been yfully wandering just moments ago was now lifelessly severed. His once sweet and persuasive lips had turned a ghastly ck. Those passionate, lively eyes, now seemed like the eyes of a dead fish, staring and unblinking.

    "Ugh!" A tremor ran through Mu Lingyi''s innards, and a stream of dark blood seeped from the corner of her mouth.

    "The beacon of hope for the Grand Temple and the Ye Royal Family has just fizzled out?"

    Whispers like these were sharper than a thousand des thrust into their hearts.

    "A mere nobody daring to insult my Chen n? Like an egg trying to break a rock. If not him, who should die?" Yun Xiao continued his morbid charade, thinking, <i>This Seed of Creation, the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, is indeed remarkable...</i>

    Today, he was putting on a performance. Had he not yed the fool, ying into Ye Xingchen''s theatricality, how else could he have struck at the most opportune moment? But then, a foreboding chill washed over him.

    A figure, cloaked in gray, suddenly appeared, wailing toward the heavens. "Immortal Emperor Hao Yang! Your son is gone!"

 Chapter 137 - Cosmic Immortals

    <h4>Chapter 137 - Cosmic Immortals</h4>

    "Immortal Emperor Hao Yang? Who the heck is that?" Yun Xiao asked, genuinely baffled.

    "Damn it!" Blue Star eximed, frustration evident on his face. "Didn''t I tell you to hold back for a moment so I could figure him out? How did you just... off him with one stroke?"

    "Well, yeah, I heard. I didn''t hold back," Yun Xiao admitted, facepalming in embarrassment.

    "..." Blue Star just stared, bbergasted. He looked as if he wanted to scratch Yun Xiao right across the chest in sheer exasperation. "Dying from showing off isn''t exactly an unusual urrence, you know. So what if he''s dead?"

    But Yun Xiao had not just killed him. He was after the Seed of Creation. Just a moment ago, Blue Star had mentioned that this Ye Xingchen''s Seed of Creation was even above that of Ye Guxing. How could Yun Xiao resist?

    "It''s not the show-offs that scare me," Blue Star interjected. "It''s the show-offs with powerful backers! In this day and age, which young master doesn''t have people he can call upon? If they can summon an Immortal Emperor, they must have some real skills."

    "Why the fear?" Red Moonughed. "If the Immortal Emperores, we just transform into a big coffin and make our escape with Creator."

    "Oh? We can do that?" Yun Xiao''s eyes lit up. "So, if we can''t die, that means I can keep wreaking havoc, right? No need to hold back then."

    Red Moon grinned, revealing a menacing set of teeth. "Don''t you worry. While your first daddy might be timid, your second daddy has got your back! Immortal Emperor? Just a tiny sugar bean. In the past, they were just snacks for us. Crunchy and delightful!"

    Blue Star simply stared, torn betweenughter and disbelief. He''d hoped for some level-headedness, but both Yun Xiao and Red Moon seemed intent on charging headfirst into trouble.

    "Look! There they are!" Blue Star pointed upwards.

    "So soon?" Yun Xiao mused, having thought that backup would take decades to arrive. In just the span of ten breaths, they''d reached the battlefield? Did they tear a hole through the void, stepping out in a single stride?

    At that moment, the entire Heavenly Realm, filled with its endless mists and Immortal energy, its countless pces and pavilions, fell into an eerie silence. Time seemed to freeze. Every being, every object, even the wind itself, ceased to move!

    An aura, terrifying beyond words, pressed down upon Yun Xiao. His thoughts were halted, as if suspended in time, and he felt deprived of even the right to think.

    Around him, Chen Xi, Mu Tianshi, Ye Qingli, Han Jingli, and many others stared nkly, motionless.

    Even the blood in Ye Xingchen''s veins stood still.

    Only a smoky gray figure with a twisted face and an expression of deep indifference stood before Yun Xiao. In a quivering voice, it dered, "You''vemitted the greatest blunder in all of existence. Brace yourself for eternal retribution..." It was clear; the figure was deeply shaken.

    Yun Xiao could only observe and listen, his thoughts paralyzed.

    "A Cosmic Immortal! Reddy, prepare to retreat!" Blue Star''s voice held an unprecedented seriousness.

    <i>Cosmic Immortal? </i>Yun Xiao felt he had caught a glimpse of something. The sky of the Heavenly Realm was but a barrier to this pocket universe. And now, beyond the sky, two colossal figures overshadowed everything else, seemingly freezing time and space in the Heavenly Realm.

    The entirety of the Heavenly Realm felt like a toy in the hands of these two figures. The impact of this sight was second only to the memory of Yun Xiao''s soul returning to the ancient bronze coffin.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Yun Xiao watched, transfixed, as the sky of the Heavenly Realm trembled.

    Suddenly, a pair of radiant golden hands reached out, grasping the barrier of the Heavenly Realm''s world. With a tug, they tore a rift in the sky¡ªa chasm stretching for tens of thousands of miles!

    The heavens were ripped asunder by bare hands! What once was a pristine sky now split in two, with mists from both inside and outside the Heavenly Realm converging. The tear in the sky resembled a gruesome wound, horrifying to behold.

    From that moment, the entire Heavenly Realm shook. The ground cracked, and countless pces crumbled.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Those colossal hands continued their grim work, widening the rift and tearing a gaping hole in the firmament of the Heavenly Realm.

    Suddenly, a massive golden face peered through! This face resembled a vast, rolling sea of golden moltenva. Its eyes zed like twin suns, its contorted features appearing as if mountain ranges of fire had been squeezed from them. Like chasms, its nostrils expelled two torrents of heat that swept down like divine dragons, sending the temperature of the entire Heavenly Realm soaring. Every being was rooted to the spot, drenched in a mixture of sweat from both heat and fear.

    "Damn..." Awe was the only thing Yun Xiao could muster. Was this the force backing Ye Xingchen? A being capable of wiping out worlds with a mere wave of its hand?

    Yun Xiao had once seen the corpse of the Creator Immortal. Even that memory couldn''t prepare him for this upheaval. And as for everyone else¡ªthey were utterly paralyzed by shock.

    But what truly left him ck-jawed was the silver face looming behind the golden one¡ªa woman''s face! And this was just the view from within the Heavenly Realm!

    From the vantage of the Divine Continent, one could see, far above the heavenly clouds, two towering colossi. They stood as if legends from tales of gods who sculpted the world. Their radiant forms outshone the sun a thousand-fold. In a mere instant, the verdant greens of the continent below began to wither.

    "Two Cosmic Immortals''!" Blue Star uttered, almost lost for words.

    "The Sr Immortal Emperor, the Lunar Immortal Empress..." The grey figure atop the Cosmic Pagoda wailed, sinking to his knees. "I feared invoking karma and getting discovered by that being. I didn''t dare to use the pagoda''s power to its fullest and made an oversight in my haste. I am at fault!"

    Never in his wildest dreams did he think that he''d be outwitted by a mortal Sword Cultivator from the lower realms. All the other times he''d unted his powers had gone off without a hitch, and he''d growncent. But this time, the script had dramatically changed.

    Sword Cultivators¡ªthey killed too swiftly!

    At that very moment, two eyes, zing like twin suns in the firmament, fixed their gaze on Yun Xiao and the dismembered remains of Ye Xingchen beneath him.

    "It''s another fated sword bearer!" The golden face, eclipsing the sky, erupted into mes, its eyes burning with fury. "I condemn you to a hundred lifetimes of torment, never to be redeemed..." The voice thundered, echoing in Yun Xiao''s ears like roaring thunder.

    Meanwhile, beneath Yun Xiao''s feet, the remains of Ye Xingchen began to reassemble.

    "Resurrection?" Yun Xiao mused in shock.

    Was this the power of an Immortal Emperor¡ªto defy death and bestow endless suffering?

    "Alright, alright! Let''s relocate and start over. After all, you''ve only been cultivating for a couple weeks!" Blue Star''s voice, filled with a mischievous undercurrent, whispered into Yun Xiao''s ear. He clearly wasn''t afraid or worried.

    All Yun Xiao could think was, "What an eye-opener!" He, a mere mortal, understood the concept of having powerful connections, but he had never seen connections of this magnitude before!

    Ripping through the void, with a mere thought one could obliterate an entire realm. Such overwhelming might, eclipsing the sun and controlling fates, resurrecting the dead and dictating countless tribtions.

    "Well, if we''re starting from scratch after killing them all, so be it!" Yun Xiao dered boldly. "I''ve borrowed the power of the Creator Immortal for my rebirth. Do you two Immortal Emperors really think you scare me? Just wait."

    With allies like Blue Star and Red Moon, what was there to fear?

    While Yun Xiao might not have had influential connections, his embodiment of the Creator Immortal was the ultimate trump card in this realm!

    Kill the junior, thene for the senior? If one could touch the heavens, what was there to fear?

    Suddenly, the terrifying power of the Sr Immortal Emperor surged towards Yun Xiao. He wasn''t just intent on annihting Yun Xiao, but also to brand him with a mark of reincarnation, condemning him to a hundred lifetimes of misery.

    Now, that was a show of true power!

    "Let''s make our move!" With that, the forms of Blue Star and Red Moon began to morph into an ancient bronze coffin.

    However, at this climactic moment of immense pressure, Blue Star''s eyes sparkled mischievously. He chuckled, "No need to flee now!"

    "Why?" Red Moon inquired.

    "Just look above!" Blue Starughed heartily, clutching his belly. "It''s hrious! Those two Immortal Emperors are being chased down. With their son dead, they rushed here in haste to revive him and in doing so, revealed their hand."

    "The one chasing them is here?" Red Moon''s eyes, as red as a blood moon, darted upwards in curiosity.

    Yun Xiao was also looking. Suddenly, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which he hadn''t put away, began to vibrate intensely.

    "That''s¡ª" Yun Xiao squinted, his eyes narrowing to a mere slit. From beyond the tear in the sky, from the very expanse of the endless heavens above, a primal sword cry suddenly echoed through the ages.

    In a heartbeat, a gargantuan sword, spanning the vast sky, plunged from the heavens, aiming straight down with ferocious intent.

    "Supreme Azure!" The faces of the two towering giants beyond the Heavenly Realm changed dramatically, their visages cracking wide open.

    "You two wanted prisoners of the Immortal Court dare to interfere with karma and destiny? Do you take me for a dead man, sitting still and doing nothing?"

    <i>BOOM! </i>Along with this enraged voice, the great azure sword fell in a sh, splitting in two, piercing the heads of both the Sr Immortal Emperor and the Lunar Immortal Empress.

    "No! We wish..." the golden molten giant face began in horror.

    "Wish your granny! Die, you wretches!" The voice, seething with fury, echoed from the azure sword.

    <i>HUM! </i>The immense Immortal bodies of the two Immortal Emperors vanished on the spot. Countless achievements and powers of theirs were annihted under this sword strike, dissipating in despair like smoke in the wind.

    Their crumbling colossal forms transformed into boundless spiritual and Immortal energies, pouring into the Heavenly Realm and the Divine Continent.

    For a time, the natural forces in various ces surged tenfold. Spiritual veins and dragon veins formed beneath the earth. Ordinary nts absorbed the spiritual energy and rapidly transformed into elixirs and spiritual herbs. An intense downpour of Immortal essence showered the realm...

    Shadows of the giants vanished entirely from the tear in the heavens. Even the recently reformed body of Ye Xingchen beneath Yun Xiao''s feet once again crumbled apart.

    High above the horizon, a colossal sword, vast as the very heavens themselves, remained suspended in the azure, casting an eternal glow upon the world.

    Upon this magnificent sword, Yun Xiao noticed an incredibly dense surging Sword Auraposed of over a billionyers, forming an ocean of sword energy. The sword seemed to be wrapped with tens of thousands of dragon-like Sword Rings...

    "Is that the Sword Soul?" Yun Xiao was utterly gobsmacked. Without a wielder, the sword transcended infinite barriers and slew the two Immortal Emperors? Even he felt numb from the spectacle, let alone the other denizens of the Heavenly Realm... The worldview of everyone present was turned upside down!

    The gray-robed figure beside Yun Xiao sat dazed on the ground, murmuring, "In the grand scheme of things, just a miniscule interference with karma and destiny, and the two were executed from across worlds..." He, along with the two Immortal Emperors, had gravely underestimated their pursuer''s terror.

    "It''s you!" The gray figure suddenly red at Yun Xiao, his face contorted in rage, "You''ve ruined everything!"

    A nine-tiered Cosmic Pagoda materialized, its immense presence bearing down on Yun Xiao. Death loomed once more.

    "Hmm? It seems like I''m being treated like thin air these days. Stay your hand, old servant," a voice that shook the very earth and heavens boomed.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>In a sh, a shadowy sword silhouette shot into the Cosmic Pagoda, instantly turning the gray-robed figure into a puff of gray mist.

    "Good stuff!" Red Moon promptly emerged, opening wide and swallowing the gray mist.

    "What was that?" Yun Xiao finally reacted.

    "A portable grandpa! Tastes amazing!" Red Moon replied, savoring the taste.

    "After we''re done eating, the nine-tiered pagoda is ours," Blue Star whispered.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled upon hearing this.

    At that moment, the shadowy sword that shattered the gray figure coalesced into a small ck sword before Yun Xiao.

    "Lad, by forcing those sinning Immortals to reveal themselves, you''ve done a great service. I grant you a strand of sword intent. If fate wills it,e to the Supreme Azure Star Emperor Immortal Court and seek me."

    With those words, the little swordnded in Yun Xiao''s hand, and the mammoth sword in the heavens vanished. Afterwards, the rift in the Heavenly Realm''s sky began to mend, and everyone''s vision blurred, seemingly forgetting all they had just witnessed.

    What sorcery was this?

    "Wait a minute!" Yun Xiao gripped the little sword, shouting at the sky, "What do you want me to find you for? Just take me with you!"

 Chapter 138 - Killing and Avenging the Heart!

    <h4>Chapter 138 - Killing and Avenging the Heart!</h4>

    As Yun Xiao''s words fell, the sky-piercing might of the sword dissipated entirely, melting into the fabric of the world.

    "Damn, he really left without me," Yun Xiao muttered, clearly at a loss. Had he caught that express ride, wouldn''t he have saved a ton of effort? Now, everything returned to normalcy, as if the colossal sword in the sky and the towering giants had never appeared.

    Surveying the Heavenly Realm, the rupturednd was mending itself, and crumbled pce towers were rising as if time were flowing backward, with the tears in the sky healing perfectly.

    "If these didn''t heal, wouldn''t all the spiritual energy of the Heavenly Realm dissipate?" Yun Xiao asked the little ck creature in his arms.

    "No duh! Ever seen a punctured ball inte?" Blue Star replied, his voice whiny and irritable.

    "Well, then, this being is quite benevolent." Yun Xiao reached out, grasping the small ck sword left for him. "He called this a strand of sword intent. What''s it for?" It felt like a small iron dagger, tangible and slightly rigid.

    Blue Star caught the strand of sword intent with his little paw and ced it in Red Moon''s mouth. With a snap of its sharp teeth, Red Moon cried out, "That''s hard!"

    "You can''t use it now. Just keep it. When you''re ready to unlock the Sword Dao''s divine intent, it mighte in handy," Blue Star said dismissively, tossing the strand of sword intent back to Yun Xiao.

    "So, this big shot gave me something I can''t even use?" Yun Xiao said, slightly frustrated.

    "Well, if you could use it now, wouldn''t that mean it''s junk? Where''s he supposed to find junk to give you?" Blue Star chuckled.

    "Well, when you put it that way..."

    After this mind-boggling turn of events, Yun Xiao fully grasped the vastness of this boundless world.

    "The Creator Immortal created the Dao Realm! Now, the Dao Realm, with the teachings from the Six Ancestral Gods, has birthed countless worlds and stars. The Divine and Demon Continent are part of it, with the Heavenly Realm being the core of the Divine Continent, its very sky!"

    The Divine Pir of the Divine Continent and Demon Continent, these two unique entities, represented the very sources of the Dao Realm. They were mere world embryos, yet with potential to evolve into vast cosmoses as limitless as the Dao Realm itself.

    At that moment, they were mere inception points.

    Surprisingly, that very Divine Pir of the Divine Continent had merged with the Heaven Burial Primordial Coffin and became Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul.

    Having witnessed the Cosmic Immortals and a Sword Soul with over a billionyers of Sword Aura, Yun Xiao''s conviction in achieving the ultimate enlightenment grew even more intense. A profound breath surged within him, ascending to the high heavens.

    ¡°However,¡± Yun Xiao mused, ¡°while one gazes at the stars, it''s equally vital to stay grounded and tread the earth beneath.¡± ncing around, he noted the once-confused looks in the eyes of the people within the Chen Heavenly Mansion dissipating. Their consciousness was returning.

    "Time''s ticking!" he thought.

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao once again harnessed Ye Xingchen¡¯s remains, extracting the Seed of Creation from his Immortal meridians.

    Streams of starlight flowed into Yun Xiao, connecting with his Nine Dragons Dantian and integrating within his meridians.

    "The Creator Immortal transformed into the Rain of Creation, sprinkling across the Dao Realm, giving birth to bone, flesh, blood, core, and other types of Seed of Creation talents. Among them, the core talent refers to the Dantian, meridians, acupoints, and so on directly linked to the containment and channeling of magic power. This Nine Heavens Star Meridians is one such core talent!" Yun Xiao recounted.

    With the addition of the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, the speed and volume at which Yun Xiao''s Dantian magic power coursed through his body would increase dramatically, making hisbative prowess even more lethal. So, within two days, he had acquired both the Nine Dragons Dantian and the Nine Heavens Star Meridians!

    "Now that you have the Nine Heavens Star Meridians," Blue Starmented with a smirk, "the path to break through the Sovereign Dragon Realm and enter the Immortal Meridian Realm has been paved for you."

    "Immortal Meridian Realm? Is that the next level after the Sovereign Dragon Realm?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Exactly! When the Dantian magic power of the Sovereign Dragon is perfected, one must develop the Immortal Meridians, circting the magic power throughout the body, allowing one to fly through the maniption of air. For most cultivators, ascending to the sky with Immortal Meridians is a hallmark phase. When that Ye Xingchen''s Immortal Meridians became useless, he was basically crippled since he couldn''t fly," Blue Star exined with a chuckle.

    "No wonder Chen Mo got pped around so much and still had the guts to mock him," Yun Xiao paused, digesting. "So, before reaching the Immortal Meridian Realm, only Sword Cultivators can ride their swords through the skies?"

    "That''s right. A small perk for the sword-wielders," Blue Star responded dismissively. "However, whether it''s channeling magic power to fly or riding a sword, neither method is suitable forbat in the skies. They''re just handy for getting around."

    "When can I battle in the air and burrow underground?" Yun Xiao asked with a touch of anticipation.

    "Slow down, snail! You''ve got a long way to crawl," Blue Star said with disdain.

    Yun Xiao''s face turned nk. It seemed that no matter how fast he progressed, mockery was inescapable.

    "Is the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm the next level after the Immortal Meridian Realm?" He couldn''t help but nce at Chen Xi.

    He remembered she wore a red veil, obscuring her expressions, eyes, and any hint of the chaos within them. In her identity as Chen Xi, she was at the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. As for her other identity, the Divine Dawn Empress, that remained a mystery.

    "After opening your Immortal Meridians, your magic power approaches perfection. Next, you''ll have to face the fivefold tribtions of wind and fire to temper your body and power. Survive, and endless opportunities await. Fail, and the soul is scattered to the winds," Blue Star exined indirectly, answering Yun Xiao''s earlier question.

    Dragon Spring, Divine Sea, Origin Core, Sovereign Dragon, Immortal Meridian, Wind Fire Tribtion.

    "So, with me at the Early Sovereign Dragon Realm, I''m basicallygging behind Chen Xi by two realms and four stages?" Yun Xiao mused. And that wasn''t even considering the gap between him and the Divine Dawn Empress. Though Yun Xiao''s actualbat power could rival those at the pinnacle of the Sovereign Dragon Realm, the distance from her still seemed vast.

    "And what did you expect?" Blue Star quipped. "That Ye Xingchen you just killed? Probably the weakest opponent in the Heavenly Realm, if I''m being generous."

    Late Origin Core Realm? Even in the Sea of Swords, there were plenty of individuals under twenty years old at that level of cultivation!

    "With Ye Xingchen gone, Chen Xi should now be the top dog in the Heavenly Realm. If this is the standard for being number one, it makes sense," Yun Xiao remarked. Being in the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm meant you were already among the elite in the Heavenly Realm. She was way ahead of the Chen n''s, Chen Mo!

    Chen Xi had already survived five Wind Fire Tribtions! And that was exactly why folks like Chen Zhao and Chen Mo immediately changed their tune on the spot, wanting to save her.

    "From now on, she''s the one I''m setting my sights on!" Yun Xiao dered. "If she and Ye Xingchen were of the same caliber at their prime, then those demonic geniuses from the Demon Continent should be even more formidable!"

    The War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm wasn''t far off.

    Yun Xiao''s determination red, a fire igniting in his heart.

    Just then, from Ye Xingchen''s corpse, two stars¡ªone ck and one white¡ªascended. With a sh, they retreated to the Cosmic Pagoda.

    "What''s that?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    "Those are two Cosmic Stars, returning to the Cosmic Pagoda," Blue Star remarked casually. With a swift movement, it captured the Cosmic Pagoda. "I''ve taken control of this little toy. It''s ours now."

    "Sweet!" Red Moon chimed in with a grin.

    "So this is what they call a rich kid''s training device? Nice piece of kit!" Yun Xiao eximed.

    "Nice? It''s just some overhyped junk," Blue Star retorted with disdain.

    Yun Xiao gave him a nk stare. He wanted to learn more about this Cosmic Pagoda, but the surrounding individuals started to make their moves.

    "I''ll study this for a bit. We''ll chat once the coast is clear," Blue Star stated, pulling the Cosmic Pagoda back into Yun Xiao''s embrace. With a flicker, it vanished inside the pagoda.

    "You guys always snatch treasures this easily?" Yun Xiao inquired, recalling how Red Moon devoured the old man in one gulp.

    "Of course! I''ve been around the block, and I''m the granddaddy of all magical items," Blue Star proimed proudly.

    "Same here!" Red Moon boasted.

    As their conversation concluded, the world around them normalized. Every being in the Heavenly Realm crawled out of the chaos, returning to reality.

    "Uh..."

    Holding their heads as if struck by a sudden headache, many groaned in pain.

    "What just happened?"

    "My head''s splitting!"

    "What on earth was that..."

    Their dazed eyes darted towards the sealing formation of the daoist magic. There, a groom in a red robe stood. With a long sword, he was prodding pieces of a dismembered corpse into a luxurious double crystal coffin.

    <i>SLAM! </i>The coffin''s lid closed. With a swift kick from Yun Xiao, the crystal coffin slid towards Mu Tianshi, Ye Qingli, and the ravishing youngdy. Blood sttered across the hall again.

    "Always make the best out of what you''ve got," Yun Xiao remarked, a stark difference from the thoughtless viin he had just pretended to be. His eyes were cold, his demeanor elegant and dashing, and his presence ethereal, as if a true Immortal. He looked at Mu Lingyi and the others, "Although Chen Xi and I have favorable fates and our wedding isn''t cursed by death, we can''t let a corpse mar this festive moment for our guests, can we? So, let''s get rid of it quickly." His chilling words felt like a stab in the heart.

    Many were left with a cold feeling, the scene and his words pulling them back to reality. They remembered. Yun Xiao had in Ye Xingchen with a single sword strike.

    <i>BANG! </i>The gliding crystal coffin crashed into the kneeling Mu Lingyi. Transparent as it was, a dead face with unblinking eyes rolled to the front, meeting her gaze.

    "Brother Xingchen!" Mu Lingyi let out a heart-wrenching scream, tears pouring like a river.

    When her gaze shifted from the coffin to Yun Xiao, her eyes were filled with blood-red rage.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Standing up with eyes aze and tears streaming, a vast wave of magic power emanated from her, pressing down on Yun Xiao.

    "Die..." She growled. With a hum, the magic power swirled into a storm, concentrating at her fingertips. An artifact, shaped like a disc, materialized in her hand.

    "Another genius of the Heavenly Realm at the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm?" Yun Xiao could clearly feel that this woman was far stronger than Ye Xingchen had been. This was what the famed disciples of the Heavenly Realm''s Grand Temple were capable of!

    In a heartbeat, Yun Xiao''s red robes seemed on the verge of igniting. He felt an immense pressure, but it only fueled his resolve.

    Yun Xiao didn''t fear strong opponents; he dreaded theck of them. What was the thrill in ughtering chickens?

    However, it was clear that today wouldn''t grant Mu Lingyi the chance to cross swords with him.

    Sure enough, before the members of the Chen n could make a move, Mu Tianshi urgently reached out, pulling his daughter back.

    ¡°Father...¡± Mu Lingyi''s face was etched with despair and destion.

    Mu Tianshi''s eyes were bloodshot, filled with murderous intent. But he could only shake his head at his daughter.

    "The act of sending a coffin as a wedding gift was an insult. Initiatingbat and wishing for a life-or-death duel, only to be in with one strike... We are not in the right," Mu Tianshi''s voice trembled.

    "It''s more than just not being in the right. It''s downrightughable!" Chen Mo burst outughing, "The grand prodigy of the Ye Royal Family, boasting and bragging all the way, and meeting such an end. Aren''t our friends from all over the Heavenly Realm going tough for decades?"

    "Ha-ha!" The members of the Chen n, who had been oppressed for a year, erupted intoughter at this moment. They had previously med Chen Xi and looked down on Yun Xiao. But the reveal of Chen Xi at the pinnacle of the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, the reveal of Yun Xiao as a Sword Emperor, and the one-strike kill were like hammers hitting them in the face. They were dumbstruck.

    Led by Chen Mo, the fifth uncle of Chen Xi, the cohesion among the Chen n was unparalleled. They gathered around Yun Xiao and Chen Xi, heads held high,ughing heartily.

    Eachugh was like a poisoned dagger stabbing into the hearts of Mu Lingyi and her parents. And the details of this event, when spread, would cause endless shame for years toe for every member of the Ye Royal Family and the central forces of the Grand Temple.

    Losing wasn''t the worst part. Provoking without reason and being killed with a single strike? That was disgraceful beyond words! Theughter of the Chen n and the peculiar expressions of their fellow Heavenly Realm inhabitants pierced Mu Lingyi''s heart, leaving deep wounds. This wasn''t momentary pain. It was eternal shame.

    "Yun Xiao!" Mu Lingyi looked at him with unwavering determination. "As per the Immortal Empire''s rules, any individual under twenty years of age from the Heavenly Realm who reaches the Sovereign Dragon Realm must enroll in the Grand Temple."

    "And?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    "I''ll be waiting for you at the Grand Temple for your studies. There are over a thousand arenas of life and death there," Mu Lingyi said with veiled threats.

 Chapter 139 - Aunts Influence!

    <h4>Chapter 139 - Aunt''s Influence!</h4>

    "You''re threatening me?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes," Mu Lingyi replied with downcast eyes, grief still evident in her gaze.

    "Did he have many followers?" Yun Xiao asked again.

    "Indeed!" Mu Lingyi growled.

    "Must be a motley crew of nobodies then. Why else would they follow a nobody like him? And that includes you, being attracted to trash. What does that make you, a buzzing fly?" Yun Xiao quipped.

    "YOU¡ª" Mu Lingyi, fuming, was at a loss for words.

    "Victory belongs to the victor, and the defeated should retreat. You lost. If you want humiliation, I won''t pamper you," Yun Xiao continued, his tone now cold and detached, a stark contrast to his previous provocative demeanor.

    "Just you wait!" Mu Lingyi''s eyes filled with tears of blood. Mu Tianshi and Ye Qingli gave Yun Xiao a deep nce before departing, the former responsible for carrying the coffin and thetter pulling their daughter away.

    "What? You''re actually going to use that crystal coffin? Hahaha!" Chen Mo mocked, breaking into unbridledughter.

    Mu Tianshi''s face darkened, but he remained silent. What else could he do? Expose the corpse and take it away? A burial was necessary. The two of them, though appearing calm, were boiling with rage and sorrow inside. They had to bear the brunt of shame, heads low, walking away amidst the curious eyes of the crowd.

    "Go to the Grand Temple, I''m heading to the Ancestral Temple!" Ye Qingli said, her voice quivering with emotion.

    "Father, Mother! Today''s shame and grudges... we must avenge them," Mu Lingyi said, ncing onest time at the dismembered body, memories of the past cutting deep like a de.

    "Don''t worry," Mu Tianshi replied, taking a deep breath. "Before the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm, Chen Xiao used this despicable tactic¡ªusing an expendable Sword Cultivator from the Sovereign Dragon Realm to get rid of humanity''s top genius... History will prove that their n is the greatest sinner of our race."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the central hall of the Chen n, the air grew tense. Bloodstains were quickly cleaned, ensuring no interruption in the auspicious proceedings.

    Yun Xiao approached Chen Xi, leaning in and whispered, "I exacted some revenge on your behalf, didn''t I?"

    "Yes, you did," Chen Xi replied in a gentle voice, her thoughts inscrutable.

    "We didn''t exactly agree on that," Yun Xiao noted with a smirk.

    "So?"

    Yun Xiao paused dramatically, "Well, that''ll cost extra!"

    "..." Chen Xi just gave him a look, unsure of how to respond.

    Their <i>intimate</i> exchange didn''t go unnoticed. The guests now eyed the couple differently, whispers swirling through the crowd.

    Seated next to Chen Lin, the third eldest of the Chen n, was a figure from the Great Dao Pavilion¡ªZhao Xuanjian. He watched Yun Xiao with interest, turning to Chen Lin, "Hey, that kid ying the fool to lure the opponent into his game... Was this a trap set by you elders knowing Ye Xingchen''s temperament or..."

    Chen Lin interrupted, "He''s only been in the Heavenly Realm for a few hours. How could we have set up a trap?"

    Zhao Xuanjian grinned, admiration sparkling in his eyes, "Oh? Then, thisd is something else. Quite clever."

    "Indeed, he possesses an exceptional intellect," Chen Lin admitted with a faint smile. "The only drawback is his Sword Cultivator talent mainly lies in his Sword Soul. His progression might be slower. At his current Sovereign Dragon Realm cultivation, he can''t shine for our race in the War of Immortals."

    Chen Mo interjected with heartyughter, "My dear sister, if Yun Xiao manages to eliminate Ye Xingchen, that''s more than enough! Let Chen Xi handle the War of Immortals." He paused, still caught up in the jubnce of the moment. "For once, I got to enjoy mocking someone without it backfiring."

    Zhao Xuanjian chuckled at the mention of progression, a sly look in his eyes. "Sixteen and already at the Sovereign Dragon Realm. Most think he''s trained for a decade. Little do they know, it''s only been half a month."

    An audible sigh pierced through the chatter. It was Han Jingli, a notable figure in the realm.

    "What concerns you, Minister Han?" Zhao Xuanjian teased.

    Han Jingli replied, gravely, "You all might be happy, but without Ye Xingchen in the uing War of Immortals, our younger generation is in peril."

    Zhao Xuanjian smirked, "What if Yun Xiao and Chen Xi take the lead?"

    Han Jingli, a tad sarcastically, said, "Chen Xi, perhaps. But expecting this young Sword Cultivator to carry the weight? He''ll be crushed."

    "Minister Han, there''s one thing where I beg to differ from you," Zhao Xuanjian dered.

    "And what might that be?"

    Zhao Xuanjian replied, "I always avoid mocking others. That way, no one gets to make a fool out of me. Keeps my dignity intact."

    Han Jingli, visibly annoyed, shot back, "Are you implying I lost my dignity today?"

    "From the moment the Gxy grade Sword Soul appeared, didn''t you?" Zhao Xuanjian ruthlessly pointed out.

    Silence from Han Jingli. The implication was clear. He felt humiliated already. That said, wherever the head led, the ass would follow. He was the Ye Royal Family''s loyalpdog. So, how could he possibly have a favorable view of Yun Xiao.

    "So be it..." Han Jingli shook his head with a sigh. Then, he looked back at Yun Xiao and said in a mocking tone, "Wisdom is a strength. But on the path of cultivation, real power is what counts. Even the renowned Sword Emperor has limitations. And this Yun Xiao? He''s a lowly mortal whose family aren''t even qualified to attend his own wedding. Yet, you all treat him as a treasure?"

    Indeed, the only figure seated at the front of the wedding hall, the ce where the bride and groom normally paid respects to their parents, was Chen Xiao. Yun Xiao waspletely alone. It was clear he waspletely reliant on the Chen n and had no influence of his own!

    By the time Han Jingli finished speaking, the hall seemed to regain itsposure as the wedding resumed. But just as the ceremony was about to progress, a soft and seductive voice echoed from the sky, "Who said he has no family qualified to be here?"

    The crowd looked up. From the heavens, a burst of pink light descended.

    A collective murmur arose, "A Sword Cultivator?"

    With one nce, Yun Xiao spotted her¡ªa woman gliding atop a six-foot pink Sovereign Sword! She gracefully stowed her sword mid-air, drifting down to stand before him. As eyes met her, many in the crowd blinked in admiration.

    She was a vision in pink, her tall and curvaceous formplemented by her figure-hugging dress. Long wavy hair cascaded down her back, her eyshes were enviably long, and her face was enchantingly beautiful. One could argue she was a rare beauty among beauties.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze slid slightly downward, noting how her dress seemed barely able to contain its upant.

    "It''s the type of melons that Creator likes the most!" Red Moon eximed with excitement.

    "Shit, keep it down, will you?" Yun Xiao retorted, feeling a headacheing on. This woman''s figure was as striking as that of Zhao Xuanran!

    However, while Zhao Xuanran exuded a holy aura, this woman was naturally seductive, capturing hearts with her misty, flirtatious eyes and inviting lips. She appeared slightly more mature than Zhao Xuanran, like a ripe peach, and, crucially, she was a Sword Cultivator!

    "Su Lianlian?" As she approached, whispers of her name echoed around the hall, suggesting she was a renowned figure. Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, the woman named Su Lianlian gracefully approached Yun Xiao.

    "The Heavenly Realm has three sword lineages. I''m the head of one of them. From now on, consider yourself under my protection. Sound good?" She asked, smiling softly as she gazed deeply into Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    "I''ve been waiting for you," Yun Xiao replied with a slight smile.

    "Oh, is that so?" She responded with a coquettish grin, extending a delicate hand to adjust Yun Xiao''s cor. Her tender fingers brushed unintentionally against his neck and face, sending a tingling sensation through him.

    "Then let them know," she whispered with a smirk, "I''m your aunt."

    With a coy smile, Su Lianlian brushed Yun Xiao''s face and, before anyone realized, had taken a seat next to Chen Xiao.

    There was a collective gasp from the crowd.

    "Why are you all staring? Get on with it," Su Lianlian said to Chen Xiao in her melodious voice.

    "Poaching right out in the open? You''re quite daring." Chen Xiao red at her.

    "What do you mean by poaching? Anyone who cultivates the sword is mine. If anything, you''re the one doing the stealing. I didn''t even ask for a dowry. You should be thanking me," she retorted.

    "..." Chen Xiao was at a loss for words. After a moment, he then turned to the guests and announced, "That''s right, she is my son-inw''s aunt. From now on, my family and the Three Great Sword Tombs are inws. Pay your respects."

    The guests were shell-shocked.

    "The Three Great Sword Tombs have always remained neutral in the affairs of the Heavenly Realm. And now they''ve chosen to side with the Sword Emperor?"

    "This means they''re joining the Chen n!"

    "Yes, and the Supreme Marshal epted their allegiance right away."

    Such a union was previously unthinkable! And Yun Xiao was at the center of it all.

    "Su Lianlian must''ve been here the whole time. After seeing Yun Xiao take down Ye Xingchen, she must''ve thought it was the perfect time to reveal herself," someone whispered.

    "The Supreme Marshal is gutsy, epting their support so openly," another guest added.

    Not everyone would dare to ept the allegiance of the Sword Cultivators. Everything made sense, considering their shared interest against the demons. And just like that, a brief exchange altered the politicalndscape of the Heavenly Realm!

    Yun Xiao, out of the blue, gained an aunt. And it seemed he''d soon have two more aunts watching over him, given Su Lianlian was the youngest leader of the Three Great Sword Tombs. With their backing, they might not be as powerful as the Chen n, but his position would certainly be a lot more stable.

    This small interlude had sent ripples through the hearts of those present. Despite the ceremony not yet starting, the events of the prelude were enough to shake the entire Heavenly Realm. Compared to that, the wedding itself was a mere formality.

    Chen Xi, with a red veil over her head, was inscrutable to Yun Xiao. What followed was a blur of traditional rituals¡ªbowing to the heavens, then to the elders of the bride and groom, and finally to each other as husband and wife. They were then ushered into the bridal chamber.

    Then came the feast! Chen Xi retreated to her room first, leaving the Supreme Marshal to guide Yun Xiao in a ceremonial round of toasts to the mighty figures of the Heavenly Realm.

    In a mere half an hour, Yun Xiao had met more luminaries than most would dream of in a lifetime. His eloquent speech won him the praises of many of the Supreme Marshal¡¯s peers.

    "Congrattions, Supreme Marshal. Your son-inw is a gem. Handsome, brilliant, and so talented, especially his cultivation." Han Jingli said sarcastically as he offered a toast. It was evident he couldn''t help onest dig. With Mu Tianshi and Ye Qingli gone, he was basically alone in enemy territory, putting him in an awkward position.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, strive hard and perhaps one day you''ll earn the approval of Minister Han." Chen Xiao chuckled with a casual smile, parrying Han Jingli''s verbal stab effortlessly.

    Beside them, Su Lianlian whispered, "Supreme Marshal, your patience and tolerance sure is amazing. To be so polite even to a buffoon."

    "Just a jester in the court," Chen Xiao remarked, moving onto the next toast.

    As night fell and the banquet neared its end, Yun Xiao was feeling the effects of the wine, his handsome face flushed.

    Suddenly, a gentle breeze carried a familiar scent, and a handnded on his shoulder. Turning, he found himself face-to-face with his newly-minted younger aunt. Her cheeks were rosy from the wine, and with her hands on his shoulders, she cooed, "Come visit the Three Great Sword Tombs tomorrow. Your older aunts are eager to meet you."

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded, finding his new aunt''s boldness a bit overwhelming.

    With a mischievous glint in her eye, Su Lianlian caressed his face again, whispering suggestively, "Take it easy in the bridal chamber tonight. Save some energy for tomorrow''s sword trials."

    His face turned a shade redder. "Energy... Right, got it!"

 Chapter 140: The Heavens Have Laws, All Beings Have Destined Fates

    Chapter 140: The Heavens Have Laws, All Beings Have Destined Fates

    Deep into the night, Yun Xiao was on his way to the Dawn Pavilion when he finally had a moment to pull out the Cosmic Pagoda. "Have you figured it out?" he asked Blue Star.

    "Long ago." A small ck creature popped out from his embrace, its two deep blue eyes shimmering faintly.

    "Tell me." Yun Xiao held the Cosmic Pagoda up, its light shining on his face, illuminating his eyes, making his tipsy expression gleam.

    "It''s an ancient Immortal artifact. It contains nine Cosmic Stars andes with the Nine Heavens Star Technique. With each level of the pagoda advanced, one Cosmic Star is activated. Once all nine stars are aligned, one can be a peak Cosmic Immortal. They can traverse realms with just their physical body, annihte wastnds with a mere wave, stand tall touching the heavens, sweep across gxies with just a thought, live as long as the heavens, and possess a destiny as eternal as the sun and moon. It''s considered a top-tier Immortal technique to enhance one''s physical strength!" Blue Star casually remarked.

    "Fantastic!" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled. "When can I start cultivating?"

    At the moment, he only practiced the Primordial Void Technique and felt that his physical body was slightly weakerpared to his body double, Moon Fairy, who practiced the Will of Divine Destion.

    "You must be yanking my tail!" Blue Star sneered.

    "Don''t even think about it!" Red Moon chimed in.

    Yun Xiao blinked in surprise. "Such a gem, why wouldn''t I cultivate it?"

    "A gem?" Blue Star rolled his eyes, unreservedly retorting, "It''s trash!"

    "Trash?"

    To cultivate it and be a peak Cosmic Immortal... and it was junk?

    "Yes! It will lower your potential, like cow dung. Once it gets into your system, you''re done for!" Blue Star chuckled.

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless. This analogy was quite the mood killer. But soon, he had an idea. "If I can''t use it, I can give it to my Senior Sister Zhao!" Having spoken, he turned to leave.

    "My heavenly brother, it''s your wedding night!" Blue Star grabbed at his robes.

    "I''ll return to itter." Yun Xiao shifted from a walk to a sprint.

    "Damn it!" Blue Star''s eyes widened. "Coward! You''re backing out at thest moment, your resolve isn''t straight!"

    The Divine Dawn Empress was waiting in their bridal chamber. Was he really thinking of visiting the mortal realm to gift something to Zhao Xuanran? That''d drive anyone up the wall!

    Blue Star, with his gut feeling, knew Yun Xiao was avoiding consummating the marriage with the Empress.

    "My resolve is straight! But I choose its direction." In a sh, Yun Xiao slipped out of the Chen Heavenly Mansion, darting through the midnight Heavenly Realm.

    "Halt!" Blue Star, clutching his robes, fumed. "Idiot! By just sharing the night with her, you''d gain a tenth of her magic power, enough to firmly establish yourself in the Heavenly Realm! Why would you pass on such an opportunity? Don¡¯t tell me you have someplex. You certainly didn¡¯t hold back when you were an Emperor in the mortal world..."

    "Ever since she met you, she''s had her eyes on you," Red Moon chimed in, grinning from ear to ear. "Like I said, you can''t escape her, no matter where you go!"

    Yun Xiao paused, taking a deep breath, his gaze calm. "I''m not running. I just need more time to think it through."

    "Think what through?" Blue Star was perplexed. "Is this the time to let your main head control your actions?"

    The damn opportunity was right in front of him, and he was pondering?

    With utmost sincerity, Yun Xiao said, "From our time together today, she seems... decent. Most crucially, she ns to participate in the War of Immortals under the identity of Chen Xi. Clearly, it''s a strategic move to surprise and capture all the prodigies in the Demon Continent."

    And that''s why she made the identity of Chen Xi believable, so no one would suspect she was the Divine Dawn Empress.

    "And your point? How does that rte to your wedding night?" Blue Star was impatient. With every day Yun Xiao didn''t progress, Blue Star grew anxious.

    "Starting the dual cultivation of the Primordial Void Technique means there¡¯s no turning back. She and I are on the same path, and she¡¯s been decent to me¡­" Yun Xiao exined.

    Blue Star chuckled, "Sure, you''re both on the same path. But the moment she makes the first move, she isn''t being nice anymore. She has ulterior motives."

    "I''m aware," Yun Xiao replied, gazing towards the direction of the Grand Temple. "That''s why I''m giving her onest chance tonight. If she understands my intentions and chooses to rein herself in, we can berades. But if she remains headstrong, then no more Mr. Nice Guy."

    "Fine," Blue Star rolled his eyes. "Being the Creator Immortal, you sure make thingsplicated. If it were up to me, any male in sight¡ªdead; any female¡ªwell, push them down."

    "I drink from the bosom of demons," Red Moon chimed in.

    Yun Xiao just stared, speechless. He was a human. They weren''t.

    Blue Star, eyes twinkling mischievously, remarked, "You know, you don''t have to drain all her magic power on your third attempt. Leave her with about seventy to eighty percent. It won''t hinder her from protecting the human race."

    "You''re not tricking me?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Do I look like the kind to trick my own brother?" Blue Star retorted with feigned dignity.

    "Reddy, is he lying to me?" Yun Xiao''s piercing gaze settled on Red Moon.

    "Nope!" Red Moon responded quickly, wagging his tongue.

    "Tell the truth. I''ll take you to a cow right now," Yun Xiao threatened.

    "He''s lying!" Red Moon''s eyes lit up.

    Blue Star was left speechless, "You traitor! So easily tempted..."

    Yun Xiaoughed. "Gotcha! I was lying too."

    "No cow?" Red Moon looked devastated, his fiery eyes spinning, "You deceitful man, I''ll bite your d¡ª"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Skyview Crossing, it was the Heavenly Realm''s gateway to the various territories of the Immortal Empire. Several divine vessels of various sizes were anchored here, operated by the Spirit Treasure Pce. For a fee, one could hitch a ride.

    "Uncle, how much to charter this boat for a day?" Yun Xiao pointed at the smallest of the divine vessels, which was an open-top and roughly ten meters long.

    "50 million Spirit Stones!" the simply dressed elderly boatman replied with a sincere face.

    "50 million Spirit Stones? I only have 500,000 Spirit Stones on me," Yun Xiao tested.

    "That''ll do. Please board," the boatman''s eyes sparkled.

    Yun Xiao was speechless. Either he was amazing at haggling, or he was still being scammed.

    After his morning haul on the divine vessel, Yun Xiao''s cache of Spirit Stones had grown to a hefty 500 million. He had over a thousand Sovereign Dragon Pills and Immortal Meridian Pills, not to mention dozens of Wind Fire Tribtion Pills, which were handy when crossing tribtions. He had be modestly wealthy, hardly caring about a mere 50 million Spirit Stones.

    Had it not been for the fact that after reaching the Sovereign Dragon Realm, the efficacy of pills diminished and he had to wait for the Heavenly Dao Sariras, Yun Xiao would have made a rapid breakthrough by now.

    "It''s ironic," he mused. "A round trip to the Heavenly Realm costs half of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect''s entire wealth. It just goes to show how out of reach the Heavenly Realm is for them."

    Once onboard, Yun Xiao began to meditate.

    "The old vessel''s about to depart. It''s a tad windy; best hold on tight," the in-clothed old man chuckled, revealing a mouthful of yellowed teeth.

    And sure enough! As the divine vessel lifted, a fierce gust of wind surged. Yun Xiao''s long hair and clothes fluttered wildly, making him appear rather disheveled. He couldn''t help butment, "Open-top, always adds a bit of thrill."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    It waste at night in Azure Spirit. A young man in white, deftly maneuvering his azure Sovereign Sword, came to a sudden halt and gracefully looped around. He cast a nce over the mountains of Azure Spirit. It was evident that even this region''s spiritual energy had surged more than tenfold, surpassing even the levels of the Sea of Swords.

    Clearly, the whole mortal realm would benefit from this. With the Divine Continent below, this surge in spiritual energy would be much higher than in the Demon Continent.

    Today, after the wedding, all the talk in the Heavenly Realm was either about Ye Xingchen''s demise or the surge of Immortal energy. Yet, they had all forgotten about that towering giant and the vast sword in the sky.

    "I wonder what Senior Sister Zhao is doing?" Yun Xiao mused. Landing in the courtyard of Little Cloud Residence, he peeked inside. A slender silhouette was visible through the mist.

    With a soft chuckle, the young man gently pushed the door open. Inside, mist hung in the air. A pristine figure, freshly emerged from the tub, stood with water cascading down her curvaceous form. Only one phrase could describe her¡ªabsolutely radiant!

    She had sensed his approach. Wrapped in a bath towel, her wet hair clinging to her, she looked slightly dazed. Her pretty face flushed, she murmured, "Junior Brother Yun, your timing is... off."

    "No! My timing," he replied with a heated look, "is perfect."

    "..." Zhao Xuanran gawked, speechless at his attitude.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The night''s allure was irresistible. The gentle whisper of the wind and the perfect circle of the moon yed their silent roles in the theater of nature. Atop the precipice of the Sword Pavilion, Zhao Xuanran donned a ck gown, swinging her legs over the edge while humming a delicate tune.

    Beside her, Yun Xiaoy, his head cushioned upon her smooth thighs. With tenderness in her eyes, Zhao Xuanran''s fingers danced gracefully through Yun Xiao''s hair. The scene painted an image of serene beauty and calm.

    As Yun Xiao reclined, gazing at the quiet clouds and the distant moon, his heart rate decelerated, melting into the ambience. The path of the Immortal was treacherous and brimming with betrayal, deception, and political intrigue. Yet, in this moment, with the tranquility of Azure Spirit and nestled in Zhao Xuanran''s embrace, all was gentle and peaceful. Thoughts abandoned him, reced by an indescribablefort.

    Neither of them spoke. Words seemed unnecessary. He remembered the Sea of Swords, the Heavenly Realm, the majestic Cosmic Immortals, the colossal sword that spanned the sky, and the War of Immortals. All so cold. So distant.

    Though Ye Guying had met his end, Yun Xiao''s heart harbored a simmering rage. That single resurrection had imprinted hatred into his very being, perhaps a gift¡ªor curse¡ªfrom the Creator Immortal.

    Driven by this, Yun Xiao''s relentless march towards carnage never ceased. Dominated by an ambition to climb, he aspired to reach the very peak of the boundless universe, curious about the vistas awaiting him. He never dreamt of idle contentment, no matter the allure of moments like this.

    The day in the Cloud Nation when Yun Xiao met his end, he was utterly powerless, falling victim to a single blow from Ye Guying''s sword. From that moment, he recognized a grim reality. In this vast, unfathomablyrge world of the Immortals, where hierarchy reigned supreme, if you weren''t strong, you were fragile. And fragility meant you were easily shattered like ss.

    Life was manageable if you never ran into those high-and-mighty <em>Immortals</em>. But, the second you did, all moments of quiet and tenderness were nothing but illusory dreams.

    The overwhelming resentment that flooded him as his soul soared to the heavens upon his death was a feeling Yun Xiao never wanted to experience again. So, every single moment, he yearned to take his destiny into his own hands.

    He needed to be ruthless. With a single sword stroke, he wanted to cleave the skies open and vanquish the injustices seething in his heart. This burning rage, he vowed, would never diminish. He had a mortal heart, once bitten by a snake, forever wary of its hiss.

    And Zhao Xuanran? Well, she had a heart just like his. That''s why he needed her. It wasn''t just a mere collision of souls; it was a balm for the spirit. When she embraced Yun Xiao, her fingertips gently tracing the contours of his face and neck, he was drawn to the warmth of her heart, a sce for his icy core.

    An hour passed, then two. Resting his head on her jade-like thighs, he watched the ever-changing patterns of the clouds in the night sky. Time seemed to stand still.

    Zhao Xuanran leaned closer, her lips brushing his ear, whispering, "Junior Brother Yun, a man must embark on his journey and not growcent withfort."

    "You''re squishing me," Yun Xiao forced out a slightly muffled reply.

    "You''re quite the rascal," Zhao Xuanran said, her gaze falling upon Yun Xiao''s clothing. She bit her red lip before remarking, "Look at you, ascending to the Heavenly Realm for just a day, and you''ve already yed groom."

    Caught up in the rush of the return, Yun Xiao had forgotten to change.

    "I came to see you during my wedding night, and yet you''re the one acting jealous?" Yun Xiao replied with a smirk.

    "I am not the least bit jealous," Zhao Xuanran replied with an air of indifference.

    "And why''s that?"

    "Because you''re a grand Immortal. Jealousy''s a luxury I can''t afford." Zhao Xuanran chuckled softly, adding, "Besides, in all my life, the only things I''ve ever loved are you and wine. What''s this jealousy you speak of?"

    "Well, aren''t I honored! To think I rank up there with wine," Yun Xiao remarked.

    Zhao Xuanran, ever the clever and free spirit, gentlyid her finger on Yun Xiao''s face and murmured, "You should head back soon. Wouldn''t want to upset <em>the bride</em>."

    By her emphasis on the word bride, Yun Xiao knew exactly who she referred to.

    "She''ll manage," Yun Xiao said, sitting up straighter. He stretchednguidly, then reached into his robe to produce the Cosmic Pagoda.

    "What''s this?" Zhao Xuanran asked, slightly taken aback.

    The starlight reflected off her face, making her appear even more enchanting.

    "It''s a grand treasure," Yun Xiao said, handing it to her. "One that can elevate you to the status of a great Immortal."

    "Compared to your friends in the Heavenly Realm, I''mcking in potential. Why give it to me? Seems a waste," Zhao Xuanran remarked, shaking her head.

    "Oh, it''s just some rubbish I couldn''t use, so I thought I''d pass it on to you. If you don''t want it, I''ll give it to Cai Maomao," Yun Xiao retorted, rising to his feet.

    "Give it to him?" Zhao Xuanran eximed in rm. "Then again, maybe I''ll take it!"

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle.

    Blue Star and Red Moon consumed that old grandpa within the Cosmic Pagoda, then spat out a small, multicolored pill. This was a reformed soul tool,cking its own consciousness, but it would aid Zhao Xuanran in her cultivation.

    With Yun Xiao''s help, she merged this pill with her soul, and from that moment, the Cosmic Pagoda was hers!

    "Are you sure this is junk?" Zhao Xuanran asked, a hint of bewilderment in her voice.

    "Trust me, it''s pure garbage. Just a regr cultivation tool for the overprivileged," Yun Xiao replied nonchntly.

    "Alright then!" Zhao Xuanran tried to sound enlightened, but deep down she still grappled with the idea that she''d been given trash.

    "I''ll show you the basics of the Nine Heavens Star Technique," Yun Xiao said, taking her hand and guiding her. Soon, seemingly with a master''s touch, he led her to harness and absorb the cosmic starlight.

    "If she absorbs the first Cosmic Star, will her magic power drop?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not at all! That old man was useless, but with the Heavenly Dao Sariras, she''ll be just fine," Blue Star assured confidently.

    "That''s awesome! Amazing as always!"

    Yun Xiao thought this would go smoothly. However, he soon faced a challenge.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, why are you so clumsy? The channeling starts from this meridian point, why did you go off track?" he said, pointing at a specific location and ring at Zhao Xuanran

    "I can''t control it," she replied with a pout, resembling a junior sister more than a senior sister.

    "Start over!"

    "Okay..."

    Yun Xiao initially believed the beginning was the hardest part. Yet, as they proceeded, he felt like tearing his hair out with every step she stumbled on.

    "Why are you this inept? Don''t you have all that sharp intuition?

    "Focus here! Push the energy here!

    "Zhao Xuanran, are you blockheaded or what?"

    It seemed as if a top student had met his match in the form of the ultimate underachiever. Yun Xiao was on the brink of madness.

    "You wanted to make a mortal ascend, didn''t you? Feeling foolish now?" Blue Star mocked.

    "Shut up! Even if she''s as dumb as a rock, I''ll polish her into a gem!" Yun Xiao retorted fiercely.

    No spiritual roots, no path to cultivation? Born average and destined to remain so? Yun Xiao wouldn''t ept such fate.

    "Every being has its destiny. She''s probably fated for a mere blink of existence while you seek eternity," Blue Star mused.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes reddened, veins bulging. "Who decided that?"

    "The Creator Immortal," Blue Star replied.

    "Well, isn''t that me? From today, I''m changing that rule!" Yun Xiao dered.

    "..." Blue Star just stared, speechless.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    <strong>You better be grateful I didn''t add cutesy anime eyes, hair and a big set of melons to Patrick too...</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 141: One Sword Piercing the Divine Dawn!

    Chapter 141: One Sword Piercing the Divine Dawn!

    Yun Xiao was a force that couldn''t be deterred. Clearly, Zhao Xuanran had acquired the Cosmic Pagoda, but her destined fate as a mortal, her potential paled inparison to the earlier candidate, Ye Xingchen.

    Yet, Yun Xiao was a stubborn fellow! When he set his mind to something, he didn''t believe in limitations. He had the heart of an ordinary man! Tell him ordinary folk couldn''t do something, and he''d turn a deaf ear.

    So, with unwavering focus, he patiently guided Zhao Xuanran, helping her harness the energy of the first Cosmic Star. He had a plethora of pills at his disposal¡ªHeavenly Origin Pills, Sovereign Dragon Pills, and Immortal Meridian Pills¡ªall to ensure her smooth advancement.

    Zhao Xuanran watched his every move, gratitude evident in her eyes.

    "Junior Brother Yun, life is fleeting. In another decade, I''ll age," she whispered softly.

    "Quiet!" Yun Xiao shot her a fierce re.

    "Life and death are fated."

    "I''ll be the judge of that!" He yfully pped her on the head. "Stop talking nonsense. Let me guide you."

    "Yes..."

    When he got fierce, she became meek.

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    Blue Star watched the entire scene, utterly amazed.

    "This nanny-style cultivation! Yun Xiao is mad!" Blue Star mused.

    "Is that a good or bad thing?" Red Moon inquired.

    "I think... it''s good?" Blue Star''s gaze was profound. "His humanity is intense. Such fervor is intriguing! I''m eager to see what wonders will emerge when it shes with the talents of the Creator Immortal."

    "At this rate, the result will be a child, followed by nurturing!" Red Moon chimed in..

    And so, they chatted and bantered, observing Yun Xiao as one would a tutor instructing a child.

    "Damn, he actually did it?" Blue Star looked on, incredulous, as a sweaty Yun Xiao emerged victorious from hisborious task. Zhao Xuanran had mastered the first level of the Nine Heavens Star Technique, without lifting a finger!

    Of the myriad intricate steps involved, Yun Xiao had meticulously overseen each one for her. Boosted by the Heavenly Origin Pills, she even reached the Establishment Origin Core Realm. With her newly enhanced physique, her path to cultivation was bound to be swift.

    Beneath the shroud of night, Yun Xiao finally took a moment to really look at the woman before him. The pale luminescence of starlight began to gently caress Zhao Xuanran''s already porcin skin, transforming her very essence. She seemed to shimmer, her beauty bing almost ethereal¡ªsimultaneously bewitching and, oddly enough,ically adorable.

    "Junior Brother Yun, does this... does this mean I''ve seeded?" Zhao Xuanran asked, sounding as though she''d stepped into an entirely different version of herself.

    "Seeded? Psh, you''re just getting started," Yun Xiao replied with a smirk.

    "But... how will I continue to cultivate? It''s all soplicated," Zhao Xuanranmented, looking genuinely puzzled.

    "Don''t you worry about that," Yun Xiao said, wiping sweat from his brow. "I''ll figure out theter stages. For now, the first Cosmic Star is enough for you to undergo a profound transformation."

    She stood up, twirling before him, her form illuminated by the moonlight like a dazzling constetion brought to life. Her skirt fluttered as she danced. "Do you think I''m beautiful?" she asked hesitantly. She wondered if, having surely encountered many celestial beauties from the Heavenly Realm, Yun Xiao''s standards were now impossibly high.

    "You''re beautiful, alright," he admitted, "but so incredibly daft."

    She responded with a yful, knowing smile. "Men seem to like their women a little clueless, don''t they?"

    This observation caught Yun Xiao off guard. Staring at her, her blend of beauty and silliness strangely enticing, he realized she had a point.

    Blue Star interjected, a hint of admiration in its voice, "She sees right through everything. No wonder she''s caught his attention."

    "It helps that Yun Xiao is so transparent!" Red Moon quipped.

    "..." Blue Star rolled its eyes.

    Suddenly, Zhao Xuanran began manipting the Cosmic Pagoda, erging it until it stood as tall as a small cottage.

    "If ever youe across foes too powerful, dive into this pagoda. And whatever you do, don''t show off outside," Yun Xiao cautioned her.

    She nodded, still slightly dazed. After entering the tower for a brief moment, she emerged with wide eyes, eximing, "Yun Xiao! Time inside the pagoda... it flows differently, faster!"

    "Really?" His eyes sparkled with intrigue. Turning to Blue Star, he asked, "Could this be useful in refining the Heavenly Dao Sariras, perhaps increasing its efficiency?"

    Blue Star, however, shook its head. "There are different grades to time maniption. This pagoda''s grade isn''t sufficient for us."

    Red Moon chimed in, "Only the worthless need shortcuts in cultivation. Talent like yours isn''t bound by mere time."

    "Enough with the ttery." Hearing that, Yun Xiao relinquished the Cosmic Pagoda. Then, he said to Zhao Xuanran "You might want to cultivate inside a bit more. It''ll help you progress faster."

    "I don¡¯t want it either," Zhao Xuanran said firmly.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao looked perplexed.

    "Women age rapidly by thirty. I only have eight years left. By the time I grow old, you won''t even be twenty." The thought alone caused Zhao Xuanran considerable distress.

    Yun Xiao, lost for words, grabbed Zhao Xuanran''s shoulders, reassuringly shaking them. "Don''t worry, as long as I''m here, you''ll live forever young!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Heavenly Realm, in the Dawn Pavilion of the Chen Heavenly Mansion, all was silent. A red dressy draped over the edge of the bed. A figure on the bedy motionless with a vacant expression.

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    "Hold on! Don''t panic," a small white tiger said with evident worry. "I''ll use my heavenly eye to see where he''s gone." A white glow appeared, revealing a man and a woman within the mist.

    "Uhhh, Chen Xi..." the little white tiger''s eyes trembled, "Your red bridal veil hasn¡¯t been removed, but it''s turned cuckquean green!" As its words fell, a flurry of electric snakes sparked violently in the room.

    "Calm down!" The little tiger''s words were interrupted as a white lightning storm swept through.

    The figure on the bed was nowhere to be seen! All that remained was a charred red bridal veil, drifting downward.

    The little white tiger let out a heavy sigh. "Twice in a row! This boy''s arrogance because of his favoritism has led to disaster!" It peered into the distance. Endless thunderbolts roiled on the Heavenly Realm''s barrier!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Heavenly Realm trembled! Many were jolted awake.

    "Who dared to breach the Heavenly Realm''s barrier with their mortal body?"

    A collective gasp echoed. Everyone was astounded.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    A soft hum echoed, as a petite divine vessel lifted into the air above Azure Spirit. Yun Xiao stood at the bow, his gaze lost in the undting mountains of Azure Spirit under the cloak of night. Suddenly, the sky overhead trembled with a deafening roar, transforming the inky ckness of night into a startling, radiant day. Startled, Yun Xiao snapped his head upwards.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Dark clouds converged, and countless white serpents of lightning danced in the heavens. A terrifying of thunder swallowed the vast expanse. Everywhere he looked, all had turned a blinding white.

    At the heart of this celestial web of thunder, a woman in a red dress descended. Her hair, free-flowing, resembled white electric dragons dispersing. Lightning raced across her gown and her fair skin. Her eyes, though, were the most captivating, as if they held entire storms within, shining with a light as blinding as the full moon.

    "The Goddess of Thunder!" Within Azure Spirit, countless Sword Cultivators awoke, gazing upwards to witness the mythical deity from legends. With reverence and terror, they fell to their knees. The sight was utterly awe-inspiring.

    "Divine Dawn Empress!" the elderly man in in robes aboard the ship cried, dropping to his knees. With a mere point of her finger, she flung the old boatman away, sending him flying away until he was a distant twinkle in the horizon.

    Having dealt with the old man, the lightning-wreathed woman in red descended, her gaze icy cold as she looked down upon Yun Xiao. Her eyes, seas of thunder, were filled with boundless fury.

    "Was all this really necessary?" Yun Xiao, standing on the now motionless ship, let his once-rxed face harden with cold determination.

    At his words, the woman''s brow furrowed in displeasure. With a wave of her hand, thousands of lightning bolts, like electric dragons, struck down.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>All around the Azure Mountains, spanning hundreds of miles, forests, rivers, and wildlife were obliterated under this celestial onught. The very ground trembled and sank, plummeting over ten feet! From above, all that remained of the once majestic mountains beneath the ship was a small patch of green, the only sign of life in the destion.

    The multitude of Sword Cultivators stood in stunned silence, gaping at the charred, smoky wastnd surrounding them. An entire mountain range, gone with a mere gesture.

    Havingid waste to the mountains, the girl in the red dress entwined in electric serpents fixed her gaze on Yun Xiao. Her voice boomed like thunder, "Do you believe I won''t kill her?"

    The moment she uttered those words, any vestige of goodwill Yun Xiao had for her vanished.

    <em>HUM! </em>With a sh of lightning, she appeared right in front of him, a mere six inches separating them. Her white electric serpents coalesced, forming a prison of lightning around Yun Xiao.

    Directly in front of Yun Xiao''s eyes zed her fiery gaze, awash with torrents of electric light. How could such a being merely exist at the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm?

    "Yun Xiao," she whispered, her voice a thunderp in his ear, "I''ve treated you too kindly. Did you think I was easy to toy with?"

    <em>BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ! </em>The electric serpents coursed over Yun Xiao''s body, causing his flesh to rupture, trails of blood appearing. His face was dewed with minute beads of blood.

    "I''ve never toyed with you," Yun Xiao retorted, his voice chilling, "I only gave you a chance. A chance you wasted.."

    "What nonsense are you spewing? You''re even joking at a time like this?" The girl in the red dress scoffed.

    "You''ll see," Yun Xiao whispered, extending the Heaven Burial Sword Soul towards her, stopping just short of her skin. With a swift motion, he shed downwards. <em>RIP! </em>Her red dress sailed into the sky, revealing her electrified and perfect form.

    "Damn!" Blue Star eximed, but before it could say more, he was snatched and flung sky-high, eventually crashing into a rock.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Looking up, it saw a majestic ship soaring across the stormy skies, its magnificence unparalleled. "This isn¡¯t a honeymoon suite anymore, it¡¯s an entire honeymoon realm" Blue Star remarked, awestruck.

    Back on the ship, surrounded by swirling electric serpents, Yun Xiao stared down the girl in the red dress, his spirit soaring. "You''re formidable, but on this battlefield, you''ll kneel before me."

    "I don''t think so," she retorted, though she was clearly out of her depth.

    "Hehe. If you don''t beg for mercy today, I''ll take your surname!" Yun Xiao sneered.

    "You want my name? Next, do you want me to call you daddy?" she fired back.

    "Exactly!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Dawn broke. The ship approached the Heavenly Realm. In a corner, a trembling girl clung to a white tiger, whispering, "Pomelo, I don¡¯t want a second or a third time."

    "Why? It went smoothly, didn''t it?" the little white tiger asked, puzzled.

    "I lost all dignity," she replied, staring nkly at the young man meditating at the prow.

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    The tiger nodded thoughtfully, "You screamed morest night than in your entire life."

    ''..." The girl remained silent.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 142: Who Will Seek Justice For Us?

    Chapter 142: Who Will Seek Justice For Us?

    Dawn broke, painting the world in hues of gold! The early morning sun glistened upon Yun Xiao, making his raven hair dance like a rebellious ck me. A radiant glow yed on his features.

    Behind him, a fair-skinned maiden had swapped her attire for a shimmering white short dress. With bent knees, she perched on the divine vessel, her deep-set eyes fixated on the young man, as she nibbled her lip.

    ¡°Whew!¡± After a while, Yun Xiao took a deep, centering breath. With a satisfied grin, he eximed, "Three stages shattered in one go. I soared straight from the Early to the Perfect Sovereign Dragon Realm!"

    Inside his Nine Dragons Dantian, his magic power swelled several times over, each expansion apanied by the roaring chant of true dragons, sending tremors through Yun Xiao''s entire being.

    "That''s just one-tenth of the Yin Void''s magic power!" Blue Star remarked, clearly pleased.

    "Just one-tenth? And it''s this potent?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow in surprise.

    "Potent? You''ve barely begun absorbing it. The next couple of days are set for explosive growth. I reckon you won''t even need the Heavenly Dao Sariras to step into the Immortal Meridian Realm." Blue Star chuckled mischievously.

    This was precisely the rush behind Blue Star''s urgency for Yun Xiao to taste the divine essence. Yun Xiao had truly hitched a ride on the express train.

    Now, at the Perfect Sovereign Dragon Realm, he could, at least, hold his own amongst the prodigies of the Heavenly Realm.

    "The results are impressive," Yun Xiao mused, his mind drifting to the previous night''s encounter with the haughty Divine Dawn Empress. Her melodious whining and coy twists... definitely a night to remember.

    "I wanted to give you a chance, but since you insisted oning forth to face my sword, well, you can''t me me." With that thought, Yun Xiao stood up and turned around.

    Before him, the girl in the white dress still had eyes that roared like thunderstorms, imperious and dominant. But a faint blush painted her porcin cheeks, betraying her innermost feelings. She was truly breathtaking! Her beauty differed drastically from that of Zhao Xuanran. It was loftier, ethereal, reminiscent of Yun Xiao himself. And she was so pale! Pale with a hint of rosy hue.

    Through Yun Xiao''s eyes, she seemed like a little white tiger¡ªfierce, yes, but adorably fierce. The kind that could intimidate anyone... except him. With that, he took a few steps forward, closing the distance between them. While her expression remained icy, she inadvertently leaned back a bit.

    "How curious," Yun Xiao whispered, gazing deeply into her eyes.

    "What''s so curious?" Chen Xi retorted coldly.

    "I wonder why, after our intimate night, I advanced in my cultivation so rapidly?" Yun Xiao feigned ignorance, his face a mask of pure puzzlement. His theatrics were on full disy again!

    Chen Xi bit her lip, ring at him. "Our cultivation methods aligned, creating a harmonious Yin-Yang bnce."

    "Oh? So, did you also make some gains? How many stages did you break through?" Yun Xiao asked, his curiosity piqued.

    Chen Xi remained silent for a moment, internally cursing. I lost a tenth of my magic power! Despite the fact, she calmly responded, "Indeed! I gained quite a bit..."

    "Really? Are you well-rested then?" There was a predatory gleam in Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    "What do you mean?" Chen Xi instinctively crossed her arms, her gaze wary.

    "Since it''s beneficial for both of us, why not continue our... practices a few more times before the War of Immortals starts in a few days?" Yun Xiao leaned closer, "I''m ready now."

    "No way!" Chen Xi eximed quickly.

    "Why not? Perhaps you''re bing bashful?" Yun Xiao teased.

    "..." Chen Xi hung her head, fists clenched tightly.

    "It appears, I''ve bested you," Yun Xiao mused, a hint of mischief in his voice.

    "You''ll pay for this!" Chen Xi retorted angrily.

    There had to be intervals between their cultivation sessions, otherwise all the effort would be for naught. So, no matter how frustrated, she had to endure his taunts for now.

    Seeing he''d ruffled her feathers enough, Yun Xiao decided to back off. Taking a seat beside her, he shifted topics. "Why were you so powerful yesterday?"

    "That''s the typical strength of the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm," she replied nonchntly.

    "That realm sounds quite formidable!" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, "If a Sword Emperor and the prospective son-inw of the Chen n like me were to join the War of Immortals, I''d be doomed, wouldn''t I?"

    "You don''t have to participate. I gave you the token just to get you on my side," Chen Xi admitted inly.

    "So, I''m basically your kept man now?" Yun Xiao said with a chuckle.

    "Isn''t that the truth?" Chen Xi responded, a hint of amusement in her voice.

    Yun Xiaoughed, rendered speechless for a moment. He gazed at the young woman beside him and asked, "Are you still upset?" He was referring to Zhao Xuanran.

    "I''m not angry," Chen Xi replied calmly.

    "Good. If destiny ties me with Senior Sister Zhao again, you''ll have to bear the title of the interloper. Just remember, you can''t harm her," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "Try venturing to the lower realms again, and see what happens," Chen Xi shot back, her gaze icy.

    Yun Xiao was at a loss for words. He didn''t quite understand the woman''s jealousy. After all, what was there to be jealous about when there weren''t any real emotions involved? So, he didn''t feel like discussing it further.

    At that moment, their divine vessel entered the Heavenly Realm, docking at the Skyview Crossing.

    "I''m heading to the Three Great Sword Tombs," Yun Xiao announced, stepping off the ship.

    "Wait!" Chen Xi suddenly called out.

    "What is it?"

    "Carry me home." She looked down, her face a mix of frustration and embarrassment.

    Yun Xiao grinned. He knew why. Simply put? Her legs were a bit wobbly.

    "Alright, I''ll walk you back," he conceded. Cradling the maiden in the white dress, they strolled towards the Chen Heavenly Mansion. The streets of the Heavenly Realm were bustling, the spiritual energy thick in the air, making it easy for anyone to recognize them.

    "Look at that! Are they celebrating their wedding out in the open?"

    "Young people sure know how to have fun."

    With a great battle looming, the concentration of spiritual energy had increased. Given the turbulent undercurrents and countless hidden dangers in the Heavenly Realm, many watchful eyes from the shadows sized up the young couple.

    "Yun Xiao!" Chen Xi murmured, nestling closer as they neared Chen Heavenly Mansion.

    "What''s up?" he replied.

    "The Three Great Sword Tombs isn''t a simple ce. Don''t you dare die on me," she warned.

    "Thanks for the heads-up," he responded.

    "One more thing!" Chen Xi turned to face him.

    "Go on."

    "That mortal woman isn''t my concern. But in the Heavenly Realm, you''re my official spouse. If you cause any scandal and disgrace the Chen n, I won''t let you off easily," she said coldly.

    "What do you take me for?" Yun Xiao said with a wry smile.

    "A creature controlled by his baser instincts," Chen Xi retorted, locking eyes with him.

    "You''ve really misunderstood me." Yun Xiao sighed.

    "Like I care!" Chen Xi said, stepping down from Yun Xiao''s embrace and approaching the entrance of her residence. She nced back, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Once you return from the Three Great Sword Tombs, I''ll take you to the Grand Temple for registration."

    Killing Ye Xingchen and then waltzing into the Grand Temple? Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow. "Isn''t that like walking into a lion''s den?"

    Chen Xi shot him a confident look. "With me around, what''s there to fear? I intend to top the Dragon Ranking, and you''reing with me."

    "Impressive." Yun Xiao chuckled, nodding in acknowledgment.

    She shot him a yful re before leaning against the wall and walking away.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the Chen Heavenly Mansion, Yun Xiao was prepping himself for the journey to the Three Great Sword Tomb when one of Chen''s guards hurriedly approached, "Young master, someone from the Sword Tombs is here for you, waiting inside."

    His interest piqued, Yun Xiao entered, taking a few swift steps to the guest hall. As he stepped into the courtyard, he saw two figures in the pavilion.

    The first was an elderly man, with hazy eyes and a posture hunched by time. His wrinkled, ashy skin stretched over fragile bones, crowned by white, thinning hair. Yet, his spirit seemed unyielding.

    Beside him, a young man stood dressed in a dark red sword robe. Tall and poised, with piercing eyes and a prominent nose, he gently supported the older man, both pairs of eyes now fixed on Yun Xiao.

    "This is the esteemed ancestor from the Three Great Sword Tomb, Old Man Sun," the guard introduced.

    Yun Xiao bowed slightly. "I am honored to meet Old Man Sun."

    "Nangong Xu," the young man said calmly, introducing himself.

    Yun Xiao nodded in acknowledgment. This Nangong Xu had an aura of depth, his magic power clearly that of a top-tier Sword Cultivator from the Heavenly Realm.

    Old Man Sun''s age was evident, but Yun Xiao found it difficult to gauge his true strength.

    "My boy!" Old Man Sun eximed, his voice tinged with a familiar warmth. He approached Yun Xiao, taking his hands in an enthusiastic grip. "Come with me, back home!"

    "Home?" Yun Xiao mused, nodding slowly. "Alright."

    And so, the trio left the Chen Heavenly Mansion.

    Throughout the journey, Old Man Sun''s eyes shone brightly whenever he looked at Yun Xiao, frequently engaging in amiable chatter. In contrast, Nangong Xu remained silent, his thoughts his own.

    One thing caught Yun Xiao''s attention¡ªa peculiar amber ne around Old Man Sun''s neck. Twelve amber beads in total, and within each bead? It looked like a single strand of hair.

    "Why aren''t you riding on your sword?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "My boy! Haven''t you heard? Today marks the beginning of the War of Immortals. Starting first thing at dawn, flying on swords is prohibited in the Heavenly Realm," Old Man Sun exined with a sigh.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "In theing days, demons from the Demon Continent will continuously enter the Heavenly Realm. If they see our Sword Auras and Sword Rings, it might incite many conflicts. To avoid unnecessary confrontations, we must tread lightly," Old Man Sun replied, with a bit of sheepishness.

    "So, outsiderse to our turf, and we''re the ones who can''t use our swords?" Yun Xiao''s tone turned icy.

    "Such is the way! Our Sword Cultivators'' influence has waned; we must heed the Immortal Empire''s orders. Take it easy; it adds years to your life! Look at me, I hardly ever grumble and have lived to ny-nine," Old Man Sun boasted with a grin.

    "Hmm." Yun Xiao nced at the elderly man. His face, when he smiled, was full of wrinkles¡ªwarm and approachable, a gentle old soul. Yun Xiao didn''t press further and continued walking alongside them.

    The Heavenly Realm was shrouded in a mystical mist. The streets were bustling at daybreak, and pairs of eyes¡ªeach unique¡ªsized up Yun Xiao from the shadows.

    "Old Man Sun, are you taking him to pay respects at the Sword Dao Monument?" someone asked as they passed by.

    "Yes, indeed!" Old Man Sun, always pleasant, greeted everyone with a smile and responded to every question.

    "Don''t bother. With the demons arriving today, there might be some ruckus at the monument," the passerby remarked casually.

    "In that case, we''ll offer our respects quickly and leave, making space for them," Old Man Sun replied with a touch of anxiety.

    "That''s more like it! This is a critical time. You Sword Cultivators should keep a low profile and avoid trouble, got it?" the pot-bellied passerby advised.

    "Don''t you worry! I''ll remind our group once we return," Old Man Sun replied, his eyes twinkling merrily.

    Yun Xiao nced at the pot-bellied man. He was only at the Sovereign Dragon Realm level, hardly a significant figure. Why was Old Man Sun so polite? But noticing that Nangong Xu remained silent, Yun Xiao refrained from questioning further.

    Throughout their journey, several individuals continued to offer unsolicited advice, and to each, Old Man Sun responded with graciousness.

    "Old Man Sun sure has a heart of gold," Yun Xiao mused to himself.

    It wasn''t a typical trait for a Sword Cultivator. As he strolled through the bustling streets of the Heavenly Realm, a sudden inspiration seized him. Looking up, he discerned a colossal sword, piercing the heavens, its silhouette emerging from the thick white mist ahead.

    "That must be the Sword Dao Monument.." Yun Xiao surmised. This very monument was engraved with sword scars from the Sword Souls of a billion Sword Cultivators from the ancient Sword Realm, who had all perished defending the Divine Continent.

    But as the saying went, time had a way of eroding even the heaviest burdens of history. As it marched on, the present reaped the sorrows of the past, and it became harder for the future to be touched by it.

    Once Yun Xiao''s gaze locked onto the monument, he couldn''t tear it away. He became oblivious to the market, the passersby, the shops. There was only a deep reverence, held closely to his heart.

    The closer he got, the more the divine mist dissipated, revealing the weathered and ancient monument even clearer to him. Ten more miles and he could discern the crisscrossing sword scars upon it. Time had worn down many of them, but the anguish and fury of the moment they were engraved remained eternal upon the monument.

    Yun Xiao felt it deeply. All things had a spirit. The emotions left behind by a single individual were fleeting. But the collective grief and resentment of a billion souls, concentrated on this Sword Dao Monument, was enough to transform it into a monument drenched in spiritual sorrow. Were it not for the righteous energy guiding it, it might very well have turned into a stone demon!

    Yun Xiao felt as if a gong had sounded directly in his ears after just a few lingering nces.

    The essence of the Sword Dao surged into his mind, unveiling a scene that was both gruesome and grand, like a scroll of history slowly unrolling before him. There were men, swords, demons, bodies strewn everywhere, rivers of blood, and sky-piercing screams.

    Soft, sorrowful whimpers echoed in Yun Xiao''s ears, as if thementations of a billion souls whispered endlessly, refusing to fade.

    Suddenly, a sharp smack to his head broke his trance. "Enough gawking, my boy," Old Man Sun said, his voice tinged with gravitas.

    "Strange..." Yun Xiao murmured, the prior feelings of outrage slowly fading, but a lingering destion clung to his heart.

    "It''s not strange," a raspy voice interjected. "Resentment from a man mightst years. But the resentment of a billion? That''s eternal. How canter generations not feel anger?" The speaker was Nangong Xu.

    Another smack. This time, Old Man Sun pped Nangong Xu''s head, muttering, "Anger, schmanger. Resentment, schmesentment. Talk less, cultivate more. Draw your sword less, stay alive more."

    "Yes..." Nangong Xu looked momentarily conflicted before lowering his gaze.

    "There are three Sword Tombs behind this monument," Old Man Sun chuckled, "We''ve all gathered today to wee you."

    "Thank you," Yun Xiao replied.

    The massive monument cast arge shadow. As Yun Xiao walked within it, he felt trapped in a never-ending gloom. Looking down, he saw countless faded faces silently observing him, their eyes brimming with sorrow.

    "You died, but were reborn because of the grace of an Immortal. But what about us¡­? As we curse the heavens and resent the earth, who will stand up for us?"

    "What?" Yun Xiao halted, gazing at the tear-streaked faces under the shadow of the Sword Dao Monument. Words failed him. For a brief moment, he looked up to see blood seeping from the countless sword scars on the monument. It pooled into a vast sea, engulfing himpletely.

    "Who will seek justice for us?" Bloody hands reached out, grabbing Yun Xiao, and he struggled to breathe amidst the overwhelming weight of their despair.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 143: Demonic Aura!

    Chapter 143: Demonic Aura!

    <em>SMACK! </em>

    "Wake up, my boy!" Old Man Sun''s hand came down again, scattering the endless sea of blood that filled Yun Xiao''s vision.

    For a moment, Yun Xiao''s eyes were bloodshot, and he panted heavily, staring nkly at the aged man with weathered eyes standing before him.

    "Stop staring and close your eyes!" Old Man Sun ordered gravely.

    "Yes..." Taking a deep breath, Yun Xiao slowly shut his eyes, the blood-red haze in his mind gradually fading.

    "The Sword Dao Monument holds the resentment of a billion souls. With your Gxy grade Sword Soul, you''re naturally more susceptible to its corruption! You must keep your heart steady. Don''t act rashly," Old Man Sun''s voice,den with concern and wisdom, echoed in his ears.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded firmly. He continued forward. After what felt like an eternity, he whispered to the little ck creature hidden in his robe, "Blue Star, what happened there?"

    "The truth is, you''re a human Sword Cultivator. Your stances, representing the humans and the Sword Cultivators, with their resentment, grievances, and indignation, are all magnified in your heart," Blue Star remarked impassively.

    "Is that a good or bad thing?" asked Yun Xiao.

    "I don''t know. It depends on your heart! If you want to rage, then rage. If you want to hate, then hate. Do as your heart desires!" replied Blue Star.

    "I am human!" Yun Xiao dered defiantly.

    "Then act like one," Blue Star said.

    "Ah, the Dao is soplex. I just want to drink some demon milk as soon as possible," Red Moon remarked with a shake of its head, clearly not getting the gist.

    Yun Xiao slowly opened his eyes, gazing at his slender fingers, his determination growing. "I am human! I am Yun Xiao! I was born in the Sword Realm, in the Cloud Nation!" He repeated this, grounding himself.

    Gazing again at the Sword Dao Monument, blood vessels sprawled across Yun Xiao''s eyes. "One day, I will let you all rest in peace!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Bypassing the Sword Dao Monument, Yun Xiao trod across a deste, uninhabited wastnd. From the depths of the mist ahead, three grand sword gates loomed. Each gate was constructed from three massive stone swords. Engraved atop the gates were distinct characters¡ªHoly, Demon, and Heart.

    The three Sword Cultivator lineages¡ªHoly Sword Tomb, Demon Sword Tomb, and Heart Sword Tomb. Three distinct schools of thought. His aunt, Su Lianlian, was the Tomb Master of the Heart Sword Tomb.

    Although these three Sword Tombs had always maintained a low profile, today their entrances buzzed with unparalleled excitement.

    Gazing ahead, Yun Xiao spotted a staggering hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, arranged in three formations, standing solemnly before the tombs. What a grand show of force!

    As Yun Xiao approached, a hundred thousand pairs of eyes suddenly fixed on him. It was as if a hundred thousand sharp swords, a torrential sea of sword energy, swept toward him. Their presence wasmanding but not malicious.

    "There sure are a lot of formidable Sword Cultivators," Yun Xiao mused, a tad surprised. He had assumed the ce would be more deste, not realizing it''d be this thriving. Perhaps this was the result of years of discretion andying low.

    Not only were they powerful, but their conviction was also profoundly unwavering. Sword light surged in everyone''s eyes. Though they remained silent, their gazes said it all.

    Yun Xiao didn''t detect any particrly hostile looks. Mostly, they were scrutinizing him. This was expected; many didn''t know Yun Xiao, only that he had in Ye Xingchen.

    "Everyone, I''ve escorted the Sword Emperor," Old Man Sun dered with a heartyugh.

    "Many thanks, Old Man Sun!" echoed a hundred thousand voices in unison, their words dripping with respect.

    Old Man Sun gazed briefly over the massive crowd, saying in earnest, "Once Yun Xiao has been weed, you should all hurry back. It''s a sensitive time for us. We can''t be seen gathered for too long."

    "Old Man Sun, please step aside for a moment."

    Yun Xiao''s ears perked up at the familiar voice. He turned to see the origin¡ªa graceful woman in a pink dress standing near the Heart Sword Tomb. It was his aunt, Su Lianlian.

    She winked at Yun Xiao, quipping, "Same old rules. Sword Cultivators get straight to the point. Yun Xiao, show everyone your Sword Soul. Among these hundred thousand, some still doubt the birth of a Sword Emperor."

    "Alright." With a nod, Yun Xiao unsheathed his Sword Soul, and it pierced the sky. A profound silence enveloped the hundred thousand onlookers. In mere moments, many gazes shifted from scrutiny to admiration.

    "Wee!" they chimed in unison. Simple as that.

    Whispers filled the air. Su Lianlian, Yun Xiao''s yful aunt, sauntered over, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Your other aunt had to step out. You''ll meet the eldest today."

    Everyone knew about the faux aunt-nephew rtionship from the public affirmation during the Nine Heavens Immortal Army''s grand wedding. Fake or not, in the Heavenly Realm, it was now gospel.

    The heads of the The Three Great Sword Tombs were all women¡ªa curious coincidence given that in the Sword Realm, both Azure Spirit and the Sea of Swords, the most powerful Sword Cultivators were men. Observing this assembly, women made up half the poption. Clearly, they harbored no gender bias¡ªwomen held their own, standing tall.

    Yun Xiao soon met his eldest aunt¡ªa dignified woman in a white sword robe. At first nce, she exuded grace and poise. But a closer look revealed resolute eyes, a window into her poetic soul. She led the most significant sword lineage in the Heavenly Realm, hardly the mark of a delicate flower.

    "Holy Sword Tomb Master, Nangong Xi," Su Lianlian introduced with a radiant smile.

    Yun Xiao greeted her calmly, "I''m honored to meet you, First Aunt."

    Nangong Xi nodded gently. "Impressive." Whether she praised Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul or his striking features remained a mystery.

    "Absolutely charming!" Su Lianlian said, clearly pleased.

    Though Nangong Xi appeared to be of the same age as the Supreme Marshal of the Chen n, her radiantplexion bore no signs of aging. She exuded an aura of purity, clearly a seasoned elder with profound inner strength.

    While the two conversed, a vivacious girl dressed in orange snuck up beside Nangong Xu, eyes dancing with mischief.

    "He hails from our ancestralnd of Sword Cultivators, not raised in the Heavenly Realm. To integrate him, we must show sincerity," Nangong Xu replied.

    "But what if he gets all high and mighty?" she pouted.

    "That''s on him. We only need to do our part," he responded.

    "Alright then!" The girl in orange nodded, then teased, "One thing''s for sure; he''s got something over you."

    "What''s that?" Nangong Xu blinked in surprise.

    "He''s more handsome!" She chuckled.

    Nangong Xu could only sigh. "..."

    "Too bad he''s already spoken for," she added with a smirk.

    As they chatted, Nangong Xi and Su Lianlian introduced Yun Xiao to numerous elite and powerful Sword Cultivators from the three tombs. Yun Xiao, reserved andposed, quickly meshed with the crowd. The Sword Cultivators were relieved to find him neither arrogant nor condescending. Talent was admirable, but a haughty talented person? Quite a handful.

    It felt as though the Sword Cultivators of the Heavenly Realm stood on a precipice.

    After the initial introductions, Nangong Xi stood before the masses, smiling warmly. "From today, Yun Xiao is a part of our Three Great Sword Tombs!"

    "Yes!" The hundred-thousand Sword Cultivators said in unison.

    "Following our rules, with his Gxy grade Sword Soul, he''s admitted as a top-tier prodigy! The three Tomb Masters have decided unanimously¡ªwe grant him five Rank Twenty Azure Kites!" Nangong Xi announced.

    "Azure Kites? Rank Twenty?" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled with curiosity.

    "You have a hundredyer Sword Soul. That means you''ve absorbed Azure Kites before, right? Those Azure Kites in the Sword Realm are our gifts to the lower realm," Nangong Xi said.

    "Oh, so that''s how it is!" Yun Xiao''s eyes lit up with realization. Those Azure Kites were no strangers to him. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he hurriedly said, "Thank you, Tomb Masters and fellow Sword Cultivators!"

    Upon Nangong Xi''s deration, murmurs rippled through the crowd.

    "Five Rank Twenty Azure Kites?" The girl in the orange dress looked envious. Turning to the boy beside her, she remarked, "Hey, isn''t your aunt being overly generous? Even you''ve only absorbed four of them till now. With how hard it''s be to obtain demon bones, there are barely any Rank Twenty Azure Kites left!"

    Nangong Xu replied calmly, "It was a collective decision by the Tomb Masters. Obeying orders is a Sword Cultivator''s duty."

    The girl in orange pouted. "Well, being gifted them is one thing. Whether he can absorb them is another. His Sword Soul might be of a high grade, but if he''s only in the Sovereign Dragon Realm, absorption won''t be easy."

    "Su Yuan. Let''s mind our own business instead of others." Nangong Xu turned to look at Nangong Xi and Su Lianlian, "The three Tomb Masters have faced life-and-death challenges to secure a path for our Sword Tombs. It''s tough. We, the younger generation, have two tasks. First, trust their decisions. Second, shine in the War of Immortals. Beyond that, it''s none of our concern."

    Su Yuan yfully stuck out her tongue. "I get it. Grandpa always says, with our declining Sword Cultivation power, we should help and support each other, not fight or be jealous."

    "That''s right," Nangong Xu''s gaze was intense. "In the face of demonic threats since the ancient Sword Realm''s fall, we''ve survived by fighting side by side. Trust those you stand with."

    The girl in orange nodded earnestly, clearly chastised.

    Suddenly, a cry rang out, "The Rank Twenty Azure Kites are here!"

    Under Su Lianlian''smand, five azure birds, wings spanning twenty feet and radiating powerful sword energy, sped towards them,nding right before Yun Xiao.

    "We''ll arrange a residence for you. Later, these Azure Kites will be ced in your courtyard for long-term absorption," Nangong Xi said, smiling at Yun Xiao.

    "Long-term absorption?" Yun Xiao stared intently at the kites, his eyes zing with anticipation. He hadn''t expected such a delightful surprise upon his arrival! "Unless I''m mistaken," he mused, "the potency of these five Rank Twenty Azure Kites surpasses that of the entire flock back in the Azure Kite Sea."

    As the density of Yun Xiao''s Sword Aura grew, the more difficult it was for him to augment it. Perhaps another Azure Kite Sea would only increase the number ofyers by thirty.

    "Thank you!" Yun Xiao said, bowing to those who believed in him without reservation.

    "You''re wee." Su Lianlian winked, her eyes yful. "Stay near Third Auntie''s ce. If you happen to quarrel with that posh wife of yours, you''re always wee toe back here." With that, she motioned for Yun Xiao to follow.

    "Hold on just a moment." Without hesitation, in front of the crowd, Yun Xiao summoned the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, directing it at one of the Azure Kites.

    "What''s he up to?" the crowd wondered, puzzled by the sudden move. Surely, he wasn''t trying to refine a Rank Twenty Azure Kite in a day?

    Their thoughts barely had time to form when Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul plunged into the Azure Kite''s beak. The massive blue kite froze, then let out a horrifying scream, engulfed by the Sword Soul. The whole act? Merely a matter of moments.

    "What the...?" The girl in orange stood dumbfounded.

    Including the two Tomb Masters, a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators widened their eyes, frozen in shock.

    Then, in the span of a few breaths, they watched as Yun Xiao absorbed all five Rank Twenty Azure Kites.

    "One hundred and eightyyers of Sword Aura!" Yun Xiao gazed at the swirling azure Sword Aura around his Sword Soul, satisfaction glowing in his eyes. It was so incredibly potent. Feeling a burst of euphoria, he looked around and noticed the entrance of the Sword Tombs had gone eerily silent. A sea of a hundred thousand faces stared nkly back at him.

    "What kind of monster are you?" Su Lianlian muttered, her face a picture of confusion.

    A collective gasp went through the crowd. Eyes met, some filled with excitement, others with disbelief.

    "Bravo!" Old Man Sun, with tears brimming in his eyes, apuded, "Fantastic! If we can just hang on, someday, we Sword Cultivators will also produce a powerhouse to reckon with!"

    "Yes!"

    A powerhouse! They needed a titan among them. And as if on cue, as his words barely faded, dark clouds suddenly shrouded the sky. An oppressive demonic aura ominously blotted out the sun.

    A collective shiver ran down the crowd''s spine. Everyone hastily looked up to see dozens of shadows, shrouded in that haunting demonic mist, perched atop the Sword Monument, their eerieughter echoing through the air.

    <em>HISS¡­! </em>Streams of muddy brown liquid began to trickle down the monument, flowing through the sword scars, creating a chilling scene right before their eyes.

 Chapter 144: Come Kill Me Quickly!

    Chapter 144: Come Kill Me Quickly!

    What was that muddy brown, amber liquid? Pungent and rank! Everyone knew exactly what it was!

    "Demons!" The faces of the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators grew icy, their eyes emanating a chilling sword light.

    "They dare defile the Sword Dao Monument again¡­!" Muffled growls echoed among the crowd.

    A horde of demons had entered the human territory, audaciously urinating on the very wounds of the human race!

    All arrogance stemmed from a disparity in strength. Seeing this, Yun Xiao realized that over the years, in the confrontations between humans and these demons, the Immortal Empire must have been at a disadvantage, otherwise, why would these demons be so brazen?

    When Yun Xiao firstid eyes on the Sword Dao Monument, the grievances of billions of souls weighed heavily on his heart. Now these demons dared to desecrate this monument, how could he bear it?

    "A few dozen Sovereign Physique Realm demons amount to nothing in the Demon Continent!" Yun Xiao''s eyes darkened with a killing intent as he looked at the throng of Sword Cultivators, "The Sword Dao Monument represents the wishes of our ancestors. Why haven''t they acted against this humiliation?"

    A hundred thousand Sword Cultivators! Even if only a hundred Flying Swords were to attack, these audacious demons would be minced meat! Yet, he saw that the Sword Cultivators, their eyes red and fists clenched, stood still.

    "What''s going on?" Yun Xiao was taken aback. This was the entrance to the Three Great Sword Tombs! Wasn''t the Dao Sword Monument their faith?

    "Help me!" From atop the monument came the desperate shrieks of a woman! A group of filthy, excited, dark-furred monkeys were hopping around, their flushed faces grasping a human woman. Their sharp ws clung to her head, arms, and legs, hissing and screeching amongst themselves, ceaselessly quarreling.

    The woman''s clothes were torn, her body covered in blood, especially her lower body, which was gruesomely mangled. These dark-furred monkeys, with their reddened, filthy organs dripping with blood, had clearly vited her. What had they done? The look of pain and despair in the woman''s eyes told the tale.

    Yun Xiao''s mind went nk with rage. Just as he summoned his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, he heard a tearing sound. The woman was brutally torn into pieces by the group of monkeys. Her blood and innards streamed down the Sword Dao Monument, painting a horrifying trail of crimson.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze hardened, teeth clenched. He was too far away to help. The woman''s shriek as she was torn apart echoed like a nightmare in his mind.

    Chattering ensued as the dark-furred monkey demons, having shredded their prey, tumbled in a raucous pile off the sacred monument, acting as if the world revolved around their misdeeds.

    "Look at this beauty over here!"

    "So fair! Love it! Love it!"

    Their lecherous eyes fixated on Nangong Xi and Su Lianlian among other female Sword Cultivators. The creatures, their obscene parts reddening in excitement, mbered and rushed toward them.

    "These brazen creatures are courting death." Yun Xiao''s eyes were shot with blood. With a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators present, including many from the powerful Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, weren¡¯t these demons just asking to be in?

    "Halt!" Nangong Xu stood forward, a low roar from him sending a storm of sword energy, which enveloped and halted the monkey demons in their tracks. Yet, he didn¡¯t kill them.

    Seeing this, Yun Xiao''s brow furrowed deeper. Given Nangong Xu''s strength, couldn''t he have obliterated them with a single strike? Their audacity had humiliated both women and ancestors alike!

    "Sword Cultivator? Mighty indeed! Come on, kill me then," thergest of the monkey demons sneered, darting up to Nangong Xu, shoving its neck towards him. "Right here, chop it!"

    The foul stench and repulsive aura of the creature washed over Nangong Xu. The creature''s ckened saliva sprayed onto his face. Rage thundered in his eyes. The veins in his hands bulged, his palm alight with radiant sword energy.

    "Nangong Xu!" At that moment, Old Man Sun, face etched with worry, quickly grabbed the young man in the red robe, pulling him back.

    "The Dao Sword Monument!" Blood tears welled in Nangong Xu''s eyes as he stared intensely at Old Man Sun.

    "I know! I know!" Old Man Sun''s voice was choked with emotion. "If you strike now, our lineage will be utterly destroyed¡­"

    Nangong Xu''s lips nearly bled from how hard he bit them.

    Laughter echoed. The monkey demons, mere creatures of the Sovereign Physique Realm, chortled and embraced each other, rolling about,pletely embodying the crude nature of beasts.

    "Well, aren''t we the timid ones?"

    "Are these Sword Cultivators? More like Scaredy Cultivators."

    "I wonder if they still have their family jewels. If not, we can lend a hand. After all, we''re all primates here. Hehe..."

    Thergest of the dark-furred monkey demons dashed towards Yun Xiao with a mocking smile, pointing at its own neck. "You seem pretty miffed. Come on, give it a shot right here!"

    Before it could even finish its taunt, a fierce de of azure energy shed straight through its neck.

    "Huh?" The demon''s head hung suspended in the air for a moment, dumbfounded.

    Then, it watched as the white-robed youth grabbed its head, his sword piercing it dozens of times in rapid session, turning the monkey''s head into a cascading rain of fragments.

    But that wasn''t all! The youth then stomped on the beheaded corpse, unleashing a storm of shes, transforming the monkey''s body into a pulpy mess of reeking flesh¡ªall in a mere blink of an eye.

    The other yful monkey demons froze in shock.

    The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators behind were equally stunned.

    Nangong Xu took a deep breath.

    Old Master Sun looked bewildered.

    Nangong Xi and Su Lianlian exchanged nces, their faces shadowed by deep concern.

    "We demons from the Demon Continent are honored guests of the Immortal Empire," the monkey demons asserted, their jesting tone now reced with a creepy smirk. "How dare you kill an esteemed guest?"

    Nangong Xi nced at Old Master Sun before stepping forward, addressing the group of monkey demons with a stern voice. "Your Demon Saint had an agreement with the Immortal Empire. You promised not to harm anyone upon entering ournds. You broke that agreement first!"

    Themotion caused by the Sword Dao Monument had already garnered attention from various cultivators. They stood at a distance, wearing expressions that ranged from bewilderment to rm.

    "Well, isn''t this something?" A whimsical voice sliced through the atmosphere. All eyes turned, and emerging from the mists was a youth with dusk-red skin. He sported golden pupils and upright hair that resembled ming torches, with sparks dancing amidst the strands.

    "Golden Eyed Fire Ape!" Many Sword Cultivators instantly identified the creature''s true form, and their faces paled.

    "Young Demon Saint! You must stand up for us!" A group of dark-furred monkey demons clustered around the golden-eyed youth, wailing mournfully, ying the role of the injured party to perfection.

    Before the golden-eyed youth could respond, Old Man Sun interjected, "Don''t get entangled with him. Everyone, retreat to the Sword Tombs immediately!"

    "Yes, sir!" It was evident from the unified response that this old manmanded deep respect amongst the Three Great Sword Tombs..

    "Retreat to the Sword Tombs?" The golden-eyed youth sneered menacingly. "How delightful! We primates, to put it mildly, are a vindictive lot. Today, you Sword Cultivators vited the Immortal Empire''s decree, wantonly killing my innocent kin. I could make a big fuss by reporting it, but¡­ why bother?"

    Pausing for effect, he directed his words to the group of monkey demons, "Little ones, these humans killed our brethren. In your sorrow, why not each of you pick a human woman and...express your grief atop this Sword Dao Monument? That''s not too much to ask, right?"

    "Young Demon Saint, not too much at all!"

    "Right! Our grief demands fierce venting! I suggest we each choose two!"

    "No, no, I want three!"

    "It was their provocation first! If we''re not allowed to vent, we''ll report it and make sure they pay dearly!"

    The dark-furred monkey demons hopped and skipped in delight.

    "Return," Old Man Sun murmured, slowly closing his eyes and fading toward the direction of the Sword Tombs.

    A hundred thousand Sword Cultivators bowed their heads, grinding their teeth to hold back waves of fury, and silently turned around.

    Seeing this, the monkey demonsughed even harder.

    "Is this the legacy of a billion Sword Cultivators?"

    "Those swords don''t look too straight to me!"

    "Come on, let''s grab some folks!"

    They jeered and made merry, while the Sword Cultivators kept their heads bowed, moving away.

    "Halt!" Yun Xiao couldn''t believe what he was seeing. His eyes zing with fire, he addressed the retreating Sword Cultivators, "What in zes are you doing?"

    They looked back at him, lost for words.

    "Yun Xiao, stay your temper. When these pests cause a ruckus, the Immortal Empire will send someone. Our status as Sword Cultivators is delicate; if we fight, they''ll find fault and finish us off," Old Man Sun said, his voice heavy with sorrow.

    "Who''sing? Where are they?" Yun Xiao turned back to see the monkey demons about to snatch some folks. No one wasing to handle the situation!

    Many onlookers merely gazed, while several women fled in panic.

    "We Sword Cultivators walk on a de''s edge. One wrong move and it''s doom. You''re young, Yun Xiao. You don''t understand the undercurrents of the Immortal Empire. If we always took the forefront, we would''ve been extinct ages ago!" Old Man Sun, trembling slightly, took a deep breath and dered, "Return to the Sword Tombs. From now on, without pressing matters, none shall leave."

    "Oh?" The golden-eyed youth overheard thetter part. He nced at the Sword Dao Monument and chuckled. "So, this is the famed Sword Dao Monument? Quite imposing. Makes a good pissing post."

    He then raised his arm and shouted, "Lads! Call ten thousand of our monkey brethren! Let them... relieve themselves on these sword scars of the Monument! To honor our unjustly fallen monkey brother''s spirit in the heavens!"

    A band of dark-furred monkey demons jumped around with glee, their teeth bared in wild celebration. They weren''t fools. Deep down, they understood that their young leader, the Young Demon Saint, wouldn''t dare trample on the dignity of the Sword Cultivators or mock their beliefs without the backing of a powerful senior.

    As the Divine Dawn Empress''s spousal selection unfolded, and the demons pressed forward, who would stay still?

    "Old Man Sun..." Nangong Xu''s eyes welled with blood as he looked at the old man.

    Old Sun''s face contorted in agony. After a brief nce at the Sword Dao Monument, he said, in a voice that seemed to crack, "Let''s go!"

    Those words felt like a dagger in the hearts of the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators. The monkey demons could insult women, and there would be repercussions. But when they insulted the Sword''s Dao Monument, who would stand up for the dignity of the countless fallen Sword Cultivators?

    Watching the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, clearly burning with rage yet turning their backs to the monument, Yun Xiao felt as if he would grind his teeth to dust. He quickly positioned himself before the massive group, "Why?" He demanded, his eyes fixed on Old Man Sun, now recognizing him as the most influential among them.

    "Why..." Old Man Sun''s voice wavered. "That Young Demon Saint might be young, but he hails from a powerful demonic lineage. His fathermands a legion of demons."

    "And?" Yun Xiao''s voice was cold as ice.

    "If we take the bait and engage him, we''ll be dancing to their tune," Old Man Sun replied, looking deeply into Yun Xiao''s eyes. "While humans and demons can coexist, Sword Cultivators are marked for death. If we mindlessly rush into every trap, we''d have been wiped out ages ago."

    "So, in essence, we''re weak," Yun Xiao concluded.

    "Yes! The weak get bullied, trampled, humiliated! Any resistance leads to certain death!" As Old Man Sun spoke, he touched an amber ne around his neck, tears glistening in his eyes.

    "Yun Xiao, there''s more to our struggle than just the demons. There are those within the Immortal Empire who would abandon us and seek peace with the demons. Demons might be cruel, but the human heart can be far more treacherous." Nangong Xu broke his long silence with these somber words.

    There was a time when humans and demons waged a colossal war. The blood of a billion Sword Cultivators was spilled on the Sword Dao Monument, each fighting valiantly. But what did that victory cost? What was the point of ying demons? Behind them, the city gates slowly closed.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 145: Breaking Ties, Leaving a Wake of Blood!

    Chapter 145: Breaking Ties, Leaving a Wake of Blood!

    "People me us, the Sword Cultivators, saying we provoked the demons with our Sword Souls, leading to the suffering of countless beings. But they''ve got it all wrong! It''s the demons that tormented our people, and it just so happens that us Sword Cultivators possess the means to counter them. We''re fueled by passion, yet the Immortal Empire surrendered before we even began. How do you expect us to fight? Generations of our lineage have dwindled to just a few," Su Lianlian with a heavy sigh.

    One more bout of anger, one more engagement, and it would all be over. Yun Xiao was seething! But after hearing her words, what he felt was profound sorrow. He didn''t me them. After countless traumas, they''d simply made a sound, responsible decision.

    Nangong Xu, Su Yuan... These young souls, weren''t they burning with the same rage as him? But what could they achieve by ying these demons? Did they think the hundreds of millions of demons in the Demon Continent were mere vegetarians? That they, holding the upper hand, would willingly take a loss?

    In the end, it was always the games of the high powers that determined fate. The ones below? Mere cannon fodder. And these hundred thousand Sword Cultivators? Just pawns, ready to be sacrificed at any moment. What could they do?

    Yun Xiao knew all this! He wasn''t naive. He understood that for the underdogs, enduring hardship was their only chance. If theyshed out in anger at every slight, they''d have been wiped out generations ago! So, what could he do?

    Yun Xiao lifted his head. That young demon with the golden eyes, the Young Demon Saint, was still taunting them.

    A smug grin was stered on its face. While it didn''t seem to recognize Yun Xiao, it certainly saw him as a point of vulnerability. Its barbed words were intended for him and him alone!

    "Yun Xiao, let''s head back to the Sword Tombs," Su Lianlian softly said, trying to take his hand.

    But in a swift motion, Yun Xiao yanked his hand away. He shot Su Lianlian a frosty nce.

    Su Lianlian froze, taken aback.

    "Everyone!" Yun Xiao stood before the hundred thousand gathered.

    Many Heavenly Realm cultivators turned their gaze upon him.

    The young man spoke solemnly to the crowd, "Just now, thanks to your kindness, I''ve officially joined the ranks of the Three Great Sword Tombs. I''m now one of you."

    Pausing for a moment, Yun Xiao bowed deeply to Old Man Sun, Nangong Xi, and Su Lianlian, then dered, "However, our paths aren''t the same. From this moment on, I''ve decided to forsake the Three Great Sword Tombs! I shall be known as the renegade, never to step inside again in this lifetime!"

    The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators stood there, dumbstruck.

    Stepping forward, Yun Xiao continued in a booming voice, "From now on, whatever I do, whomever I y, it has nothing to do with any of you! Yes, I practice the way of the sword, but my allegiance is to Chen Heavenly Mansion, and I am the son-inw of the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army!"

    Old Man Sun, Nangong Xi, and Su Lianlian''s eyes quivered at his words.

    But Yun Xiao wasn''t done. His icy gaze swept over the Sword Cultivators, concluding with a cold smirk, "A bunch of cowards, you''re not worthy of me, nor of the swords you hold! Don''t even think of associating with me from now on. You just don''t measure up!"

    With that, he strode with purpose toward the Sword Dao Monument.

    "Out of my way!" he sneered at the Sword Cultivators. The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators silently made way for this defiant figure.

    "How could he say such hurtful things!" Su Yuanmented from the depths of her heart.

    ¡°To outsiders¡­¡± Nangong Xu fixed his eyes on Yun Xiao. In that moment, his heart raced uncontrobly, the image of the white-robed figure forging ahead etched deep into his soul.

    ¡°Outsiders?¡± Su Yuan trembled, turning to gaze, dumbfounded, at the young man.

    Indeed, be it the demons or the onlooking cultivators from the Heavenly Realm, everyone heard it crystal clear. He was the son-inw of the Chen n! His actions had nothing to do with the Sword Cultivators...

    "To the Sword Tombs!" Old Man Sun roared in outrage, leading a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, teeth gritted, back home.

    In the crowd, the pace of the white-robed youth changed from walking to running, and in the end, he suddenly soared into the sky on his Sovereign Sword! The Immortal Empire had decreed that from that day, Sword Cultivators were not to ride on their swords! But he not only rode his sword, he shot forward like a streak of azure and white light, heading straight towards the horde of demons!

    Was it one man against the tide, or a hundred thousand? The juxtaposition in that split second was something those hundred thousand would remember for a lifetime.

    "Don''t look back!" Old Man Sunmanded again.

    "Yes...!"

    They couldn''t watch, but they could hear!

    "The son-inw of the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army?" The golden eyed young man''s yful expression turned cold.

    A group of dark-furred monkey demons gathered around him, baring their teeth with sneers.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Yun Xiao suddenlynded before them, the Sword Soul in his hand morphing into a Flying Sword. On that sword, four Sword Rings shone brilliantly, and the 180yers of Sword Aura dazzled.

    Seeing the Sword Rings, the golden eyed youth''s eyes slowly widened, mes stirring within.

    "Tear him apart!" The golden eyed youth coldly waved his hand.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The group of ck-haired monkey demons had long wanted to annihte Yun Xiao. Dare to cut down their kin? A horde of demon monkeys screeched piercingly, charging forward on both hands and feet!

    Yun Xiao stepped forward, his back to the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, and with one swing of his sword, the winds roared and thunder rolled.

    <em>Forbidden Sword, Thunder sh!</em>

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>With his Perfect Sovereign Dragon Realm cultivation,bined with the zing 180yers of Sword Aura, his Flying Sword transformed into a thundering lightning de, sweeping towards the ferocious Sovereign Physique Realm demon monkeys.

    A sh of lightning, followed by a gruesome explosion of flesh!

    <em>SPLATTER SPLATTER SPLATTER! </em>In just a heartbeat, dozens of demon monkeys met their doom beneath that Flying Sword, bursting into a mist of blood and gore, their death cries echoing the horror of the scene.

    <em>SPLASH SPLASH SPLASH! </em>Blood mists and chunks of flesh rained down, sttering all over the golden eyed youth, staining his head, his body.

    "Sovereign Dragon Realm? This powerful?" The faces of the Immortal Empire''s cultivators mirrored their shock. So, this is the famed Sword Emperor?

    "He''s got some moves..." The golden eyed youth sneered, his features contorting grotesquely. In an instant, he transformed from a boy to a towering red-me primate. Muscles bulged beneath his fur that was sharp as needles, and those gold eyes zed with fury.

    <em>BOOM BOOM! </em>A formidable surge of demonic energy pulsed within him, the sinuous cords of his demonic veins visibly writhing beneath the skin, akin to serpents slithering within.

    "Mid Demon Meridian Realm! Top quality meridians too!"

    "He could probably take on those in the Late Immortal Meridian Realm. Isn''t the Supreme Marshal''s son-inw marching to his doom?" Anxiety crept into the hearts of the cultivators.

    <em>THUD! </em>The golden eyed youth donned ayer of ck battle armor, mes of eerie blue burning from within.

    "Wild Armor!" Gasps of shock echoed.

    The fabled Wild Armor was forged by infusing raw Deste Essence into the armor itself. Worn as both protection and a tool for honing one''s body, it was a treasure only the elite demonic beings possessed.

    With the Destion Armor amplifying his prowess, the Young Demon Saint''s eyes held even more disdain. His immense demonic energy spewed forth, forming waves of crimson mist, surging towards Yun Xiao.

    "Sword Cultivator, your life is as fragile as paper! What can you possibly pit against me?" The Young Demon Saint''s face twisted in malice.

    Yun Xiao remained silent. A torrent of sword energy surged in his eyes. Beneath the Sword Dao Monument, a blood-stained shadow cloaked him, making his eyes glint menacingly in the dark. With a fierce charge, he lunged at the Young Demon Saint.

    The Heaven Burial Sword Soul transformed into a three-foot-long azure sword, its four demon magics swirling, unleashing a path of destruction paved by the elements of water, fire, wind, and thunder.

    <em>Forbidden Sword, Nine Heavens Thunderde!</em>

    Whatever attribute Yun Xiao needed, he possessed! The Nine Heavens Thunderde was blindingly fast. In a sh, the white-d figure was upon the Young Demon Saint, his de radiating with intense brightness.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Young Demon Saint''s golden eyes furrowed, and from them shot twin pirs of me, targeting Yun Xiao directly. It was the demon magic¡ªGolden Pupil Ghost Fire!

    Almost simultaneously, the Young Demon Saint lunged with overwhelming force. His fists powered forward, unleashing waves of demonic energy, pressing down with a suppressive aura. This sudden disy of might drew gasps from all around.

    "Die!" The Young Demon Saint, his vitality surging, roared.

    <em>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </em>But in the next instant, Yun Xiao''s lightning sword tore through the Ghost Fire. Its form transformed, shifting from a de of lightning to one of radiant light.

    <em>Sun Moon Divine Light, Gentle Breeze Bright Moon!</em>

    With a swift and fierce sweep, the azure de danced at a bizarre angle, shing just inches from the Young Demon Saint''s face.

    <em>CRACK! </em>A piercing sound echoed as the sword grazed past the Young Demon Saint''s mouth, flinging half a tongue and several beastly teeth into the air, blood spattering everywhere.

    The Young Demon Saint''s wild punch missed Yun Xiao entirely,nding on the ground and leaving a scorched trench in its wake.

    "ARGGH!" With a cry of pain, the Young Demon Saint copsed, writhing on the ground. His flesh, though resilient against most weapons, stood no chance against the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, imbued with the power of a 180yers of Sword Aura.

    "Did he really just...?"

    "Amazing!"

    "He''s actually beating the Young Demon Saint!!"

    ¡­

    A chorus of gasps arose from the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, many turning their heads in disbelief. At that instant, everyone watched, eyes wide with disbelief, as the young man in white robes, with his exquisite swordsmanship, overwhelmed the Young Demon Saint with a single stroke.

    Blood poured from the Young Demon Saint''s mouth.

    "Sovereign Dragon Realm? Is it this powerful?" Gasps rippled through the crowd, their gazes shifting, newfound respect evident as they looked at the young man in white.

    But Yun Xiao didn''t rest on hisurels for even a moment. His eyes zing with a bloody hue, he seemed possessed as he surged towards the Young Demon Saint again.

    "Enough!" the Young Demon Saint roared. With half his tongue missing, his voice had changed, shaky and filled with anger.

    "Enough? You don''t get to decide that!" Yun Xiao shed before him, his azure sword morphing in hand.

    "No!" Old Man Sun and the others cried out in rm. This was the son of the Demon Saint!

    "You dare kill me?" With eyes spitting fire, the Young Demon Saint erupted. His Golden Pupil Ghost Fire shot towards Yun Xiao, his fist morphing into a w, shing at him.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The youth cut through the Ghost Fire with his Sword Soul, reaching the Young Demon Saint again in the blink of an eye.

    "Hah, do you think I''d be doing this if I didn''t dare to kill you?" Yun Xiao sneered, his voice colder than a winter''s night. From his hand, one sword multiplied into over twenty, forming a of des. They wrapped around the Young Demon Saint''s arm. The razor-sharp tip punctured beneath his armpit, piercing straight into his lungs.

    The Young Demon Saint threw his head back, his eyes flooding with blood, his body shaking uncontrobly. "Stop! I give up!" he groaned, pain evident in every syble. Turning to Yun Xiao, he growled, "Don''t be rash. If I die, it''s going to be a big problem."

    "Oh?" In a fluid motion, Yun Xiao pulled out his sword. <em>STAB! </em>He thrusted his sword forward again. <em>STAB STAB Stab! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul continued to plunge into the Young Demon Saint''s mouth and burst out the back of his head. A mixture of red and white sprayed out.

    The Young Demon Saint''s eyes rolled back, his gaze full of despair and regret as he slumped to the ground, lifeless, defeated by the young man in white. His eyes remained open in death!

    Yun Xiao yanked out the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, and with a heavy thud, the Young Demon Saint dropped to his knees right in front of him. Was it over? Far from it!

    Gripping the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, Yun Xiao shed once, twice, turning the kneeling Golden Eyed me Ape into a pile of mush. Then, before the stunned crowd, he thrust the Sword Soul into the demon''s bones, siphoning off its marrow.

    And to finish? He pulled out a cloth bag from his Pouch of Holding, gathering up the battered remains. What on earth was he nning? It was clear as day! He intended to refine the demon''s flesh and blood into a Blood Crystal Sword Ring, to hang upon his sword.

    With that taken care of, Yun Xiao dusted off his hands. His white robes were drenched in blood, making him appear even more cold and detached. With a flourish, he effortlessly hefted up the bag of mangled remains and headed toward the direction of the Chen Heavenly Mansion, not looking back once.

    As for the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, many turned their heads to watch him, their eyes raining tears.

    The surrounding spectators from the Immortal Empire, watching his receding figure, sighed. "Trouble''s brewing..."

 Chapter 146: Humanitys Supreme Sword

    Chapter 146: Humanity''s Supreme Sword

    "Hold on!" Yun Xiao had barely taken a few steps when a rosy apparition swiftly caught up to him. Turning around, he found Su Lianlian already by his side, a delicate fragrance wafting toward him.

    Her eyes, rimmed with red, sparkled with mischief as she whispered, "Off the record, am I still considered your aunt?"

    Yun Xiao pondered for a moment. "If given the chance, would you wield your sword against the demons?"

    "Absolutely," Su Lianlian said, biting her lip. "In my youth, I was quite the firebrand. But over the years, I''ve seen things, lost people dear to me..."

    "I get it," Yun Xiao replied, nodding. When one stood alone, they feared nothing and no one. Yet the more you cared about others, the more you were constrained, the more reservations you''d have.

    "Then..." Su Lianlian began, her eyes locked onto Yun Xiao''s.

    "It''s fine," Yun Xiao nodded. "I hope one day we can stand side by side."

    "Thank you," Su Lianlian said, her eyes shimmering anew. She leaned in, whispering, "I''ve noticed you have quite the knack for swordsmanship. Even the basic Star grade techniques you wield with such finesse."

    "And your point is?" Yun Xiao replied, a yful eyebrow raised, admiring her enchanting face up close.

    "On the Sword Dao Monument, there''s an inscription of a Gxy grade sword technique, left behind by our ancestors," Su Lianlian exined, her gaze fixed on the Monument with a gleam in her eyes.

    "A Gxy grade sword technique?" Yun Xiao felt a surge of excitement. Being a Sword Cultivator, he needed better sword techniques. The stronger ones were only avable from the Three Great Sword Tombs.

    He had thought he''d have to wheedle them out of Su Lianlian privately, but here she was, offering up the cream of the crop on a silver tter!

    "Yes, and it''s Upper Gxy grade," Su Lianlian added, her voice heated. "It''s humanity''s supreme sword left behind by our ancient predecessors. After the ancient war, no one could master it."

    "Really?" The more challenging it sounded, the more Yun Xiao''s interest was piqued.

    "I''ve been trying to decipher it for years without much luck," she confessed. "Rumor has it, only those with the Sword Soul of a Sword Emperor can grasp its essence. But give it a shot when you can. If it doesn''t pan out, there are other sword techniques of varying grades within the Three Great Sword Tombs. Take your pick."

    The fact Yun Xiao was allowed to take his pick hinted at how deeply moved and impressed she along with the other hundred thousand Sword Cultivators had been by Yun Xiao''s recent actions.

    Breaking ties? Yun Xiao was just trying to protect them, after all... The thought that a sixteen-year-old boy was shielding all of them brought a blush of shame to many a face.

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao wasn''t one to dawdle. He gazed at the Sword Dao monument, asking, "Where''s the sword technique hidden?"

    "It''s within the sword scars; you''ll need to discern it for yourself," Su Lianlian replied, emphasizing that outsiders wouldn''tprehend, and even if they did, theycked the Sword Soul.

    "What''s it called?" Yun Xiao asked, his eyes aze with curiosity.

    "The Constetion ying Sword," Su Lianlian answered. Taking a deep breath that entuated her silhouette, she continued, "It epasses Flying Sword, Palm Sword, and Sovereign Sword techniques, culminating in seven swords named after the seven grades of the Sword Soul."

    "Understood," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "The radiant aura of these seven swords is the most formidable in the Heavenly Realm, especially feared by demons specializing in physical prowess. These swords once instilled terror in the demons of the Demon Continent. It''s this sword technique that led the demons to persecute us fervently. They were afraid, and their fear made us want to master the technique more. Sadly, no Sword Emperor has been born until now," Su Lianlian said, her head slightly bowed.

    "So these seven swords represent... conviction?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    "Yes! The hopes and convictions of all of us," Su Lianlian affirmed.

    "Good, just wait and see!" With that, Yun Xiao turned, dragging the corpse of the Young Demon Saint, and in a blink, he was gone. The Sword Dao Monument remained in ce, awaiting his return whenever he pleased. But he needed to refine this corpse before it began to rot.

    Watching Yun Xiao''s departing figure, Old Man Sun, Nangong Xi, Su Lianlian, and others exchanged nces.

    "We must be worthy of him," Old Man Sun, clutching an amber ne around his neck, his eyes reflecting a life lived.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Chen Heavenly Mansion, Yun Xiao returned, dragging something dripping with fresh blood.

    "Young Master, what is that?" a Chen n guard asked, pinching his nose.

    "Just a beast. nning to roast it with some wine. Care to join?" Yun Xiao asked with a smirk.

    "Thank you for the honor, Young Master!" The guard chuckled, "Considering you''re freshly wedded, I wouldn''t dare intrude on your sweet moments with the youngdy."

    "Perhaps another time." With that, Yun Xiao soon returned to the Dawn Pavilion. He wandered through the gardens, past rock formations and ponds, to their bridal chamber. As he looked up, lightning shed inside the room, producing thunderous roars as thousands of electric snakes darted about.

    "That fiercedy sure is wild!" Yun Xiao eximed.

    "She was a maiden yesterday, and today you''re calling her ady" Blue Star teased with a chuckle.

    Red Moon had another lightbulb moment. "A day can make quite the difference."

    Yun Xiao, not bothering to entertain the banter, strode forward, pushing open the door and stepping in.

    Inside, a young woman in a white dress sat on a cushion, surrounded by thick white lightning, resembling a cocoon of electric fury.

    "Didn''t anyone teach you to knock?" She snapped open her eyes, casting a bolt of electricity towards Yun Xiao.

    "Do I need to knock to enter my own bedroom?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    Chen Xi gave him a cold stare for a few moments before gathering up the serpents of lightning, halting her cultivation. The power she wielded didn¡¯t so much as harm a single candle in the room, showcasing her impressive control.

    "What is that?" She frowned, looking at the bloodied bundle outside.

    "A demon''s corpse," Yun Xiao replied nonchntly. "Do you know how to forge a Blood Crystal Sword Ring? Make one for me."

    "I don¡¯t!" Chen Xi red at him. "Don¡¯t go around the Heavenly Realm killing demons, dragging trouble to my n. These creatures are vengeful. Kill one youngster, and a horde of elderse calling."

    "Alright, I¡¯ll be more discreet next time." Pointing at the bloody package, Yun Xiao asked, "So, what do we do with this? We can''t just leave it lying around."

    Chen Xi remained silent for a moment, then took out an exquisite Pouch of Holding. From within, she pulled a dark tome and tossed it to Yun Xiao. "Learn it, forge it yourself," she said dismissively.

    "Soul Ignition Art?" Yun Xiao caught the ck book, flipping a few pages back. "Is this the method to refine the Blood Crystal Sword Ring? It¡¯s from the Daoist Spell Compendium, right?"

    "Yes, it¡¯s a daoist spell." Chen Xi settled back on her cushion, legs gracefully parted, her back straight, as she closed her eyes to meditate.

    "Can a Sword Cultivator learn a daoist spell?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes! At its core, daoist spells are methods to harness and release the power of heaven and earth. Not only can Sword Cultivators learn it, but even demons have simr techniques. However¡ª"

    Chen Xi gave him a brief nce and then continued, "A cultivator''s focus is limited. You''ve dedicated yourself to the sword; you''re set in your ways. Combining the two disciplines, they''re as different as night and day. Trying to juggle both, it''s like biting off more than you can chew. History tells us that those who''ve aimed for dual mastery in both often end up mastering neither."

    "I get it," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "But this Soul Ignition Art is an exception. This kind of utility spell isn''t meant forbat. It doesn''t change your fighting style. Many Sword Cultivators dabble in a few of these," Chen Xi added.

    "Understood. Thanks for the insight," Yun Xiao responded, then made his way out.

    The Soul Ignition Art spanned eight pages, with mantras and diagrams detailing how to channel magic power through the body. For every step Yun Xiao took, he flipped a page. By the eighth step, he pped the ck book shut and tossed it casually in front of Chen Xi.

    Chen Xi gave him an exasperated look. "You practice it! Why do you always expect me to do everything? What are you, a big baby?"

    Yun Xiao chuckled, then opened the bloody package. With a twist of his palm, a me shaped like a primordial dragon engulfed the pile of flesh. The carcass of the Young Demon Saint trapped in the dragon''s me began to sizzle, popping and crackling as it was being refined.

    Chen Xi merely sighed, feeling as if her very spirit was being eroded by his antics. "You knew how to do it all along, didn''t you? Why the charade?"

    "Think what you will," Yun Xiao replied nonchntly.

    A storm seemed to brew in Chen Xi''s eyes, and she bit her lip. "Did you just learn it now?"

    "It doesn''t matter," he responded.

    At that moment, the demon corpse had been steadily refined and shrunken. The pitiful remnants of the Young Demon Saint''s soul were screaming within.

    "You insolent mortal! Your entire race will perish, just wait... Ahhhhh!" Amidst its shrieks, it was turning into a Blood Crystal Sword Ring¡ªa fate seen by demons as the most humiliating and wretched.

    Furthermore, Yun Xiao had absorbed its demon bone and marrow, propelling his Sword Soul to 181yers.

    Chen Xi, her eyes fixed on the shrinking blood corpse, suddenly stood up and frowned at Yun Xiao. "A Golden Eyed me Ape?"

    "You''re quite knowledgeable," Yun Xiao said with a sly smile. "Indeed! I''ve certainly given the Heavenly Chen Mansion some face. It was a Golden Eyed me Ape, and even a Young Demon Saint at that!"

    "..." Chen Xi''s face remained expressionless.

    "To keep those demons in check, I dered the name of the Chen Heavenly Mansion right then and there. They ran off, scared witless," Yun Xiao continued.

    "..." Again, silence from Chen Xi. She red at the screaming Young Demon Saint within the mes, then back at Yun Xiao, her teeth clenched.

    "Your husband''s looking pretty pleased with himself. Why do you seem so upset?" Yun Xiao asked, genuinely puzzled.

    "This is the son of the Demon Saint! It''s a precarious time, and your actions could ce our n in the eye of the storm!" Chen Xi shot back. "And you dare to turn it into a Blood Crystal Sword Ring? Do you really want to incite a massive battle between the Nine Heavens Immortal Army and the Demon Continent, leading to countless casualties?"

    "Whoa, is it that bad?" Yun Xiao feigned shock, then gazed deeply into Chen Xi''s eyes, "Darling, back me up here."

    Chen Xi remained silent.

    "You''ve taken advantage of me; you''ve got to take responsibility now," Yun Xiao added.

    Again, silence from Chen Xi.

    "Besides, you haven''t paid for yesterday." Yun Xiao eyed the Pouch of Holding in her arms.

    Chen Xi was utterly at a loss for words.

    At that moment, the Blood Crystal Sword Ring was finally refined. Yun Xiao held it up to the sunlight, and it shimmered brilliantly. Inside the crystal, the tormented soul of an ape screamed.

    "So, considering the fuss this thing has made, I should probably just toss it, right?" Yun Xiao quipped, ncing at her.

    Chen Xi was about to lose her cool. She rolled her eyes in exasperation. "You''ve already made the damn thing. Just put it on and don''t waste it!"

    "Got it." From her reaction, Yun Xiao could tell she''d cover for him. Even if Chen Xi couldn¡¯t, the Divine Dawn Empress surely would.

    So, Yun Xiao summoned the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. Upon it revolved four Sword Rings of water, fire, wind, and thunder, each with a history of nine thousand years, brimming with demon magic.

    Yun Xiao then casually slid the Blood Crystal Sword Ring onto it.

    <em>HUM! </em>The five Sword Rings circted around the Sword Soul.

    "..." Yun Xiao froze, and so did Chen Xi.

    "My bad." With an unfazed expression, Yun Xiao removed the four elemental Sword Rings. He mused, "With this twenty-thousand-year-old Sword Ring, the other four just seem... mediocre. Might as well sideline them."

    Those four rings had served their <em>purpose</em> for barely three days. A twenty-thousand-year-old Sword Ring!

    In the Sword Realm, the mightiest demon was referred to as a ten-thousand-year-old Demon Lord. Yet, in truth, this exalted demon likely hadn''t lived for ten thousand years. By the same token, Moon Fairy, hailed as a thousand-year-old Demon Emperor, was far from reaching a thousand years in age. In fact, he was astonishingly young, which was why he could participate in the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm.

    This practice of defining a demon''s power by its age began in the mortal world, where the inherent potential of demons was quite limited, leading to tales like a demon maturing every hundred years. However, truly elite bloodlines could surpass the mightiest demons of the Sword Realm within just a few decades of cultivation.

    In ces like the Heavenly Realm or the Immortal Empire, demons and Immortals were typically identified by their realms. For instance, the Sword Ring that Yun Xiao refined from the Young Demon Saint, would be called a twenty-thousand-year-old Sword Ring in the mortal world, but in the Heavenly Realm, it''d typically be termed a Demon Meridian Sword Ring, signifying its origin from a demon of the Demon Meridian Realm. The earlier four nine-thousand-year-old Sword Rings were termed Sovereign Physique Sword Rings.

    While thetter naming mightck the mboyance of the millennia-themedbels, it had the virtue of uracy. "With limited perspectives," Yun Xiao mused, "even a mere shadow could be revered as an Immortal. It''s hardly surprising for a Sovereign Physique Realm demon to be dubbed a ten-thousand-year-old Demon Lord."

    Mortals had a habit of attributing the unexined to divine intervention and filling gaps with exaggerated tales. But none of that mattered now. What was paramount was that the son of the Demon Saint was now hanging on Yun Xiao''s sword.

    "Did you just embed five Sword Rings into your Sword Soul¡­?" Chen Xi finally broke her silence, looking intently at him.

    "Nah, you were probably just seeing things¡­" Yun Xiao replied.

    The two exchanged silent nces.

    "Have you rested enough?" Yun Xiao''s gaze slid from her face, drifting downwards.

    The power of the Yin Void! Breaking through three stages in one go, and there was still room to spare. The second time, he would receive a third of her magic power, and by the third, he''d be given it all!

    Since the Divine Dawn Empress had forced his hand, Yun Xiao had no ns of holding back. With three roundspleted, he would be at the top of the world. As for her? Well, she had to start over. Though, that wouldn''t be a big issue since Yun Xiao would protect the Heavenly Realm in her stead.

    "No way!" Chen Xi, typically so aloof, wouldn''t entertain any discussion. With a swift motion, she shoved Yun Xiao out and mmed the door with a resounding bang.

    Just as Yun Xiao opened his mouth to speak, an overwhelming and sinister force, dark and malevolent, surged throughout the Chen Heavenly Mansion! Lifting his gaze, he witnessed a vast shadowy demon cloud rolling in from the west, blotting out the sun as it bore down on the mansion.

    Daylight was quickly consumed, and the entire Chen Heavenly Mansion was submerged in darkness and a malevolent mist. The ferocious demonic energy intertwined with a low rumble, creating a storm of evil that hovered ominously overhead.

    The eerie wail of ghostly winds filled the air.

    "Yun Xiao! Come out!" A sharp, brutal screech pierced the fog, causing many of the Chen n to clutch their ears in pain.

    "They''re quicker than I thought." Yun Xiao murmured, his eyes cold.

    "All thanks to your handiwork!" Chen Xi flung open the door, shooting him a re. "You darned troublemaker!"

    "..." Yun Xiao had no reply. He watched Chen Xi head out, slipping into the crowd and following the flow of people outside the Chen Heavenly Mansion.

    The demonic cloud ahead rumbled with deadly intent. Its dark energy was already enveloping the people. Resting just above the ground, one could discern tens of thousands of demons. Their ferocious-looking faces and sharp teeth glinted menacingly, mainly resembling ferocious apes. With eyes full of rage, they hopped and jumped about, scratching their heads and baring their fangs.

    But these weren''t mindless lesser demons. Each was a powerful demon at the Demon Core Realm, equivalent to a Demon Emperor of the Northern Wastnds. Among them, numerous stronger beings pulsed with a formidable demonic energy at the Demon Meridian Realm or higher, their chilling presence concentrated in the middle of the crowd.

    From the dense fog emerged a pair of golden, fiery eyes. Enormous in size, the mes within them churned ferociously. Its shadow cast an oppressive and terrifying aura. Unmistakably, this was the father of the Young Demon Saint!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 147: Were Not Afraid of Death!

    Chapter 147: We''re Not Afraid of Death!

    "You''re here Ape Saint! My apologies for not greeting you sooner!" The eldest brother of the Chen n, Chen Zhao, stepped forward with a weing smile, representing the Chen Heavenly Mansion.

    However, he had barely taken two steps when a red-haired brute, twice his height, suddenly appeared before him! The man had eyes as big as bells, arms thicker than most men''s legs, a fierce blue face with sharp fangs, nostrils puffing smoke, and an aggressive re. And that was his human form!

    <em>WHAM! </em>As soon as the red-haired brute appeared, he pped Chen Zhao square on the head.

    "You!" Chen Zhao greeted him with a smile, utterly bewildered as to why this general of the Ape Saint would suddenly strike. In desperation, he used his magic power to deflect the blow. But caught off-guard, he couldn''t withstand the brute''s enormous strength.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The force sent Chen Zhao flying, crashing into the crowd. His arms were bruised, and with a sweet taste in his throat, he spat out ck blood. Without a word, the attacker had pped the weing Chen Zhao. The wildness and arrogance of this demon was evident.

    "Ghost Face Baboon!" Picking himself up, Chen Zhao red at the red-haired giant. "I treated you as a guest, yet you harm me. What is the meaning of this?" Thousands of the Chen n shared his outrage, feeling as if they''d all been pped in the face.

    "What do I mean?" The red-haired brute sneered, "One of the sons of our Ape Saint was killed by your people! We''vee for justice!"

    "What?" The members of the Chen n exchanged nces, all turning their attention to the golden eyes amidst the demonic cloud. They all knew that this presence was far more terrifying than the red-haired brute.

    "Give us the murderer in three breaths'' time or else..." Before the brute could finish, the sky was suddenly lit with brilliant white light.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A thick white bolt of lightning struck the red-haired giant squarely on his head. Electric currents swirled around him instantly.

    <em>CRACKLE CRACKLE CRACKLE! </em>The giant convulsed and screamed, frothing at the mouth and copsing to his knees. His red hair exploded into ck, and bloody gashes appeared all over his body.

    "Who?!" The red-haired giant''s injuries were worse than Chen Zhao''s. His face contorted in pain, and he looked up angrily.

    At that moment, a man in white armor, surrounded by rolling thunder, descended from the heavens,nding beside Chen Zhao. The white tiger emblem on his chest te looked fierce, and his eyes, shimmering with lightning, radiated an indomitable spirit.

    "Supreme Marshal!"

    "n King!"

    The Chen n and the divisions of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army all felt a shadow lift from their faces upon recognizing the neer.

    "Chen Xiao, you''ve got some nerve!" the Ghost Face Baboon bellowed, trying to rise, only to be pushed back by the barrage of white lightning. With a heavy thud, his knees met the ground.

    "Ape Saint!" He looked desperately toward those golden eyes for aid.

    By this point, the gold fiery eyes locked with the Supreme Marshal''s electric gaze, tension crackling in the air like a storm about to break. With a thundering sh, the mood turned deadly serious.

    Seeing this unfold, Yun Xiao felt a slightfort. The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators were cornered, fighting a losing battle, but this Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army... was impressively dominant.

    With a simple gesture, the Supreme Marshal pinned the red-haired giant to the ground. The horde of demons and demons erupted in anger.

    Yet, the Supreme Marshal, with an unwavering calm, addressed the Ape Saint with a smile, "My old friend, this redhead doesn¡¯t have the best manners. Assaulting my brother upon arrival. Doesn''t he know of the bond we share, forged in the fires of life and death?¡±

    "Life and death brothers?" The red-haired giant was bbergasted. What bond was he talking about?

    ncing back, he saw the Ape Saint''s golden eyes narrow just slightly, then in a tranquil tone, he replied, "He was indeed impolite. Thank you for the discipline, my friend."

    "It''s nothing," The Supreme Marshal replied with a bow and a grin. "Having traveled from afar, we''ve unfortunately been remiss in our greetings. It¡¯s been too long since ourst meeting. We''ve prepared some wine in your honor. Please,e in."

    "Today, I won¡¯t trouble you with hospitality. The Grand Temple has already prepared a feast, and I''ve epted their invitation," the Ape Saint replied. His voice lowered, "However, there is a matter that brought me here. I seek justice for something done by your people."

    "Oh? Do tell," the Supreme Marshal replied with a polite smile.

    "Just moments ago, at the foot of the Sword Dao Monument, my son was brutally killed by someone from the Chen n." The Ape Saint¡¯s voice remained eerily calm, like a still pond. The horde of monkey demons beside him leapt and screeched, baring their teeth in fury.

    "Is that so?" The Supreme Marshal''s eyelid twitched slightly.

    "Many witnessed it, even your own cultivators can attest," the Ape Saint dered.

    "Who did it?" the Supreme Marshal inquired.

    "It was me." Yun Xiao stepped forward.

    Chen Zhao, Chen Mo, and others felt a chill run down their spines.

    "Young master?" A few of the Chen n guards recalled the <em>beast</em> Yun Xiao had brought back, and their vision darkened momentarily.

    "You killed the son of the Ape Saint?" The Supreme Marshal''s face took on a grave expression.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Chen Xiao!" The Ape Saint''s eyes red, mes settling on Yun Xiao. "Is this your son-inw?"

    "Indeed." The Supreme Marshal acknowledged.

    With a chilling smile, the Ape Saint turned to the Supreme Marshal. "You and I share a bond that transcends life and death, yet you allow your son-inw to assassinate my son? Do you intend to break the truce and ignite a war between our races?" His words sent the horde of demons into a frenzied roar, their cries intensifying.

    "No!" Yun Xiao''s eyes burned fiercely. "Killing your son was my personal decision! It had nothing to do with my father-inw!"

    "A personal decision?" The Ape Saint''s voice grew colder.

    "Yes!"

    "I''ve heard you''re a Sword Cultivator. Did the Three Great Sword Tombs set you up to this?" The Ape Saint''s voice erupted, thundering in Yun Xiao''s ears.

    "What a joke! Those worthless sword lineages influencing me?" Yun Xiao responded without a hint of fear, "I killed your son for one reason alone: he deserved it. That''s all there is to it."

    "All because he defiled the sacred monument of you Sword Cultivator?" The Ape Saint demanded. His words were traps, set to lure Yun Xiao deeper into controversy. His son was gone, and now it was about finding a way to exact revenge a hundredfold. Killing Yun Xiao wouldn''t even begin to quench the depth of his fury.

    Facing the Ape Saint''s deafening roar, Yun Xiao''s eyes sharpened, shaking his head, "What does the Sword Dao Monument have to do with me?"

    "You''re a Sword Cultivator. How is it not rted to you?" The Ape Saint pressed menacingly.

    "I cultivate both the Dao and the sword. But my primary focus? It''s the Dao. For me, the path of the Sword Cultivator is just a fancy way for show-offs. I pursued it just for good luck," Yun Xiao stated, his piercing gaze shifting to the horde of demon monkeys. "I killed the Young Demon Saint because he took the lead in viting the peace treaty between our two races. He brazenly led a band of hairy monkey demons in the Heavenly Realm to shame and ughter our human women! Tell me, Ape Saint, was his behavior correct? Can every demon from the Demon Continente to the Heavenly Realm and act like this?"

    Trying to shift the me onto the Sword Cultivators? Nice try. But Yun Xiao wouldn''t allow it!

    "As a member of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, it''s my duty to maintain order in the Heavenly Realm!" Yun Xiao looked at the Supreme Marshal and loudly asked, "Father-in-Law, was I wrong in my actions?"

    "You were!" The Supreme Marshal seized Yun Xiao by the neck, shaking him fiercely. "Next time youe across someone dishonoring our women, you should call me, so we can kill them together!"

    "..." Yun Xiao was struck speechless.

    An icy silence followed. Even the previously rowdy demons grew quiet. Yet, a greater fury brewed within them.

    "Ape Saint!" The Supreme Marshal''s face was grave. "The War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm prioritizes friendship overpetition. I regret what has transpired, but understand that the Nine Heavens Immortal Army has the duty to maintain order. And my son-inw is the Gxy Division Supreme Commander. With such a lofty position, he is obligated to act in the face of injustice. ording to militaryw, I cannot punish him. I hope you can consider the good rtions between our races, restrain your people, and allow us both to save face. Fair enough?"

    "When did the young master be the Gxy Division Supreme Commander?" one guard whispered.

    "Obviously, he was just appointed!" another murmured back.

    By this point, it was clear to everyone that the Supreme Marshal was magnifying a small mistake made by the Young Demon Saint to fiercely protect Yun Xiao! The Ape Saint demanded a heavy price¡ªthe entire Chen n and a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators. Yet, the Supreme Marshal wasn¡¯t willing to offer even his son-inw. The message was clear as day.

    The myriad of demons present red with dark expressions, their eyes filled with tears of blood, gritting their teeth, rage burning in their hearts.

    "Lord, let''s annihte them," the burly ape with fiery red hair whispered, his eyes aze as he looked to the Ape Saint.

    However, the Ape Saint didn''t react. After gazing coolly at the Supreme Marshal for a moment, he chuckled, saying, "You know, I''ve got plenty of offspring."

    The surrounding demons blinked in surprise.

    "Brother Chen," The Ape Saint nodded. "I understand your position. Let''s put this matter to rest."

    "Thank you! You truly are a brother to me," the Supreme Marshal replied with a smile.

    "My Monkey n and your Chen n have always been like siblings," the Ape Saint said with a faint smile. "I''ll propose to the Grand Temple Sage to have our prodigies face each other more in the War of Immortals. We can deepen the bond between our two ns."

    "Wonderful!" the Supreme Marshal eximed.

    "Until then." With a wave of his hand, the Ape Saint took to the skies of the Heavenly Realm, leading his horde of demons, enveloped in a mystical cloud.

    Meanwhile, the Supreme Marshal¡¯s expression turned icy as he dered to the crowd, "It¡¯s decreed. All members of the Chen n are to withdraw from the War of Immortals!"

    The announcement left thousands in shock. Many from the Chen n had prepared for years, hoping to distinguish themselves in the War of Immortals.

    "Silence!" The Supreme Marshal¡¯s voice boomed, "You all should understand the reason."

    "But, n King, we aren''t afraid of death!" a young man dered passionately.

    "Not fearing death doesn''t mean we should march willingly to it." The Supreme Marshal nced at his daughter, Chen Xi. "Rest assured, someone will stand up for our n and seek the highest glory."

    "Brother, didn''t you just say we''re all abstaining from the fight?" Chen Mo asked, puzzled.

    "Are you thick in the head? Lil Xi represents the Sword Realm!" Chen Zhao snapped.

    "Oh! Right," Chen Mo nodded.

    "Big Brother, are you okay?" The Supreme Marshal asked with concern.

    "I''m fine!" Chen Zhao gritted his teeth, "That red-haired beast has no sense of martial honor. If he did, I would''ve given him a good thrashing!"

    Laughter rippled through the group.

    From the side, Yun Xiao chuckled as well. "Although Chen Xi can be domineering and has questionable intentions towards me, I must admit, her family is a resilient bunch," he mused internally.

    Turning to Chen Xi, he remarked, "That Ape Saint sure knows how to make an exit. He knows his son was refined into my Sword Ring, yet he didn''t bat an eye? Doesn''t he want to seize the moral high ground and challenge me?"

    "All this tells us is that he knows that today, even if he threw a fit, he wouldn¡¯t get much in return. It''s clear he''ll be nning a much grander retaliation. That scoundrel!" Chen Xi''s frustration was evident. It was like she wanted to throttle him.

    "It''s okay," Yun Xiao said earnestly. "From here on out, I will join you in seeking glory for our n. Our brothers can ce their dreams upon my shoulders."

    "..." Chen Xi just stared. She was a mighty Empress, and she''d never felt this level of exasperation. "Come on, let''s head to the Grand Temple," she said, grabbing Yun Xiao''s arm.

    "They''re holding a secret meeting between the human and demon elites at the Grand Temple now. You want to crash it?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "With me there, what''s there to fear?" Chen Xi responded confidently.

    "I''m just worried your legs might give out."

    "???"

 Chapter 148: Primordial Bell!

    Chapter 148: Primordial Bell!

    On a secluded street just outside the rear courtyard of the Chen Heavenly Mansion, something unexpected happened. From the direction of the mansion, a heavy piece of armor was flung out! It crashed onto the cobblestone ground with a resounding ng. The armor radiated the power of Destion and from its crevices, a dark golden me spilled out, scorching arge crater into the street.

    Before long, a silver-haired figure approached from around the corner. This individual had an enchanting face, long, delicate fingers, and shimmering hair. So androgynous was their appearance that one couldn''t immediately discern their gender. The silver-haired person stood before the armor and remarked with a sigh of contentment, "Neb grade Deste Essence... truly invigorating."

    With slender fingers, he produced a jade box, drawing the lingering mes into it until the armor lost its vibrant glow. Once done, he shed a bewitching smile¡ªa smile so captivating that it would make anyone''s heart race.

    "Dear Moon, what are you doing over there? Come on!" Seductive voices called out from the other end of the street. A group of alluring fox-eared women stood in the glow, giggling and waving towards the silver-haired figure.

    Enveloped in a misty haze, their silhouettes were striking, and their yful smiles were utterly bewitching. Any man from the Heavenly Realm whoid eyes on them would feel an undeniable pull of desire.

    The silver-haired figure, eyes gleaming with a silver light and three fox tails gently swaying behind, gazed at the group of enchanting women and called out, "Sisters, wait for me."

    In a sh, he drifted over, and with a swift movement, embraced two of thedies by their waists. The melodiousughter of the women echoed, weaving a spell that ensnared all who heard.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Heavenly Realm''s Grand Temple, there was a modest study. Four walls enclosed it, with bookshelves on three, each crammed with volumes. Thest wall, however, bore a ck and white yin and yang diagram. Even though it was just a picture, the yin and yang fish on it seemed to rotate gently, capturing anyone''s gaze.

    Seated on a worn-out meditation cushion was an old man, distinguished by his white hair and the wrinkles that spoke of centuries. Dressed in a patched robe, he exuded a simple, rustic charm.

    Hearing footsteps from outside, the old man''s ears twitched, and he slowly opened his eyes. One eye was blind, a milky white, making a stark contrast with the other. In a way, his two-toned gaze mirrored the yin yang diagram behind him.

    A knock echoed. "Father, it''s me."

    "Come in," the old man answered, his voice dry and ancient.

    The door creaked open, revealing a schrly-looking figure named Mu Tianshi. He stepped forward and bowed deeply.

    "Have our guests been received?" the old man asked.

    "Yes." Mu Tianshi nodded.

    "And?"

    "The first few Demon Saints who arrived seem content." Mu Tianshi paused before continuing, "However, the Ape Saint is disgruntled. He wishes that in the War of Immortals, the members of hi Monkey n be grouped with those from the Chen n."

    "Is it a wish or a demand?" the old man asked.

    "Demand!" Mu Tianshi murmured, his head slightly tilted downwards.

    "Then, grant him it," the old man said.

    "Wouldn''t the Divine Dawn Empress have objections? The Supreme Marshal is, after all, her prized general," Mu Tianshi remarked.

    "She enticed the demons with the spousal selection. It''s been a year now since anyone has seen her. Who knows if she''s even interested in sorting out this mess anymore?" The old man looked distant, contemting. "Besides, wasn''t this whole fiasco started by the Chen n''s son-inw? They bit off more than they could chew. Whose fault is that?"

    "I heard the Chen n contemtes withdrawing," Mu Tianshi mused.

    The old man chuckled. "So, the mighty second strongest n of the Heavenly Realm wants to back out of the War of Immortals? They can prepare for a lifetime of being branded cowards." The old man''s face broke into a grin, "These soldiers, they just don''t have the backbone of us learned folks."

    "Backbone?" Mu Tianshi paused, pursing his lips. "Reminds me of Sword Saint Sun."

    "I heard today he found himself humbled by a few minor demons?" The old man''s eyebrows raised, amusement evident on his face.

    "Exactly. The same fierce warrior who once, in a fit of rage, ventured into the Demon Continent and slew eight of their Demon Saints. Now, his reputation is in tatters," Mu Tianshi reflected, a hint of sorrow in his eyes.

    "Just a hothead!" The old man''s cheek twitched, disdain shing in his eyes, "In this day and age, he still grapples with demons? His whole family, all twelve of them, met a tragic end. That''s the price of going against the tide."

    "All those Sword Cultivators are now basically useless," Mu Tianshimented, his gaze turning frosty. "But that son-inw from the lower realms, he''s still causing a ruckus. When will he pay for Xingchen''s vengeance? Our Lil Yi remains inconsble..."

    "Just a kid, not even in the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. As brittle as chalk," the old man noted with a smirk, "He has to register at the Grand Temple, doesn''t he?"

    "Yes, he does," Mu Tianshi nodded.

    "To register, there''s abat test. Don''t we have some rather <em>capable</em> demon exchange students at the Grand Temple? They''ve been studying our knowledge for a while. Perhaps they could test this Chen n''s son-inw," the old man suggested, a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

    "Demon exchange students?" Mu Tianshi thought of the few who enjoyed the best of what the Grand Temple had to offer but were never quite content and often stirred up trouble. A smirk slowly formed on his lips. "Indeed, they are apt for the task... But using demons for the entrance test of humanity''s sacred cultural ground, won''t that draw objections?"

    "What''s there to object?" The old man chuckled. "Our demon exchange students from the Grand Temple are rtable, simple-hearted, and innately kind. The best kind of folk!"

    "That''s right... even if they''re barbarians from the Demon Continent, after they''ve learned our Immortal Empire''s teachings, they''ve gained the airs of true schrs. I was overthinking it," Mu Tianshi admitted, breaking intoughter.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Cloaked in white, two figures traversed the mist-shrouded Heavenly Realm, their appearance a breathtaking blend of beauty and charm.

    "Look at the Heavenly Realm and the vastnds of the Immortal Empire. The spiritual energy and Immortal aura are thriving. The demons of the Demon Continent must be envious, right?" Yun Xiao mused aloud.

    "Envious?" Chen Xi replied with an icy smile, "These uncivilized brutes don''t have a shred of envy in their eyes."

    "Then what do they possess?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "Greed," Chen Xi asserted.

    A chill settled in Yun Xiao''s heart. It appeared that the immense sword in the sky that annihted two Cosmic Immortals had injected yet another element of unpredictability into the situation.

    "The Grand Temple approaches," Chen Xi abruptly noted.

    Yun Xiao raised his eyes and saw a majestic yet understated gate ahead. Atop it hung a signboard, inscribed with the words, <em>Boundless Righteousness</em>.

    "Boundless Righteousness..." Yun Xiao found it somewhat familiar. Compared to the signboard at the Sword Pavilion, this one oozed at least ten times more grandeur. Upon closer inspection, the inscription was made of densely packed spirit crystals. They likely shimmered brilliantly at night.

    It was boundless righteousness, funded by affluence! The aura from the spirit crystals would dissipate over time. To maintain its grandeur, the signboard would need frequent replenishment.

    Upon seeing this, Blue Star and Red Moon''s eyes practically gleamed with greed. Thankfully, their appetites had been sated recently; otherwise, they might have been tempted to devour the signboard there and then.

    "Let''s go in," Chen Xi said, striding forward. Her white dress swayed, and her long hair danced in the wind. Her presence felt like one person could dominate a crowd, exuding an overwhelming charisma.

    Yun Xiao followed closely, finding sce in her protective aura.

    "They''ve arrived." At the entrance of the Grand Temple Academy, a few young men dressed in schrs attire, with white crowns adorning their heads, nced at the approaching duo with cold eyes. Without hesitation, they turned and went inside to report their arrival.

    The Grand Temple wasn''t just an academy in the Immortal Empire; it was a hub of education and governance. Here, not only could one cultivate daoist spells, but they could also learn the principles of ruling and literature. By the age of ten, almost every child from an Immortal family had secured a spot in the Grand Temple. Chen Xi, too, had been a member from a young age.

    Strictly speaking, the Grand Temple wasn''t a powerhouse in its own right. It functioned as an educational legacy under the Immortal Empire''s rule. Its primary purpose? Nurturing talent for the Empire. All its resources¡ªbe it cultivation methods, daoist spells, magic treasures, spirit mines, or formation diagrams¡ªwere regarded as the Empire''s assets, not personal property.

    Of course, where there were people, there was politics. Power and familial influences inevitably seeped in. For instance, over the past few centuries, the Mu Family had been consistently securing the Grand Temple''s highest position!

    Moreover, the current head of the Grand Temple hailed from the older generation of the Mu Family. Many of the Temple''s key figures¡ªteachers, schrs, and core students¡ªbelonged to the Mu Family.

    Familial ties ran deep and tangled throughout the Immortal Empire.

    When the Divine Dawn Empress made her unprecedented debut, she swiftly rose to be the supreme leader within a few years. Yet, the Ye Royal Family¡ªa powerhouse in the Immortal Empire¡ªhad long upied countless crucial positions and maintained significant influence. They even had the audacity to act against the Empress in secret.

    Before the Divine Dawn Empress''s reign, the Ye Royal Family had inherited control over the Immortal Empire for generations.

    As Yun Xiao set foot in the Grand Temple, he voiced a lingering question, "Chen Xi, one thing has always puzzled me. How did the Divine Dawn Empress ascend to her position? To which n does she belong?"

    "You''re married now, and you''re still curious about other women?" Chen Xi responded with a hint of jest.

    "She''s an Empress! Does she even count as just another woman?" Yun Xiao retorted, shaking his head.

    "What do you mean by that?" Chen Xi stared at him, raising an eyebrow.

    "I mean she''s transcended gender in my eyes. She stands as an invible, divine entity," Yun Xiao replied earnestly.

    Chen Xi found some amusement in his words. With a smirk, she answered his initial question, "She''s an enigma, born of mystery. No n ims her, and no one has truly seen her face. The reason she could suppress the Ye Royal Family and rise to power? She made history by striking the Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell nine times! ording to ancient rules of the Immortal Empire, this act is the sign of a naturally born Emperor''s arrival,pelling the Ye Royal Family to abdicate."

    "The Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell? Where is it?" Yun Xiao inquired, a peculiar expression crossing his face upon hearing the word <em>primordial</em>.

    "Of course, in her hands, it''s the very thing the demons of the Demon Continent fear the most! And she''s only fifteen. No wonder the demons are panicking. They''re afraid! Afraid of annihtion!" Chen Xi remarked with a cold chuckle.

    Yun Xiao pieced everything together. He gave Chen Xi an extra nce, musing, "Truly a remarkable youngdy." It turned out her genuine identity was indeed the daughter of the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. Yet, she bore the weight of humiliation, concealed her prodigious talents, and ascended to the throne under the pseudonym Divine Dawn Empress.

    The reason for her actions was crystal clear. She was still young,cking the strength to overthrow the Demon Continent. The power dynamics of the Heavenly Realm were intricate, especially with the Ye Royal Family losing their hereditary throne. How could they possibly ept it?

    She needed the shroud of mystery tomand awe, to make them fear the force behind her.

    If it became known that her only backing was the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, all the oppositions and conflicts would be transparent. That revtion would undeniably push her family, the Chen n, into the eye of the storm.

    The deterrent power of a mysterious and fearsome Divine Dawn Empress was far greater than that of a prodigious talent from the Chen n. With these dual identities, she could achieve much. Like orchestrating the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm and ying the role of a cunning fox in the guise of Chen Xi...

    In Yun Xiao''s eyes, she was not just a formidable force but also a woman of grandeur who knew when to hide and when to strike. He was absolutely sure there was another person in the Heavenly Realm who knew everything, besides him. And that person was probably her father. The very father of the Divine Dawn Empress!

    "So that''s why the Supreme Marshal spoils his daughter without bounds," he mused. This father-daughter duo was truly something else.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 149: Brother, Your Death Was Really Tragic!

    Chapter 149: Brother, Your Death Was Really Tragic!

    "Interesting," Yun Xiao mused with a smile. The Heavenly Realm''s politicalndscape was infinitely more intricate than the Sea of Swords.

    The Demon Continent, the Ancestral Temple, the Grand Temple Academy, the Six Immortal Divisions, the Great Dao Pavilion, the Ye Royal family, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, the Chen n, the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators of the Three Great Sword Tombs, and the Spirit Treasure Pce¡­ Countless individuals, all eyeing the benefits thaty before them.

    Indeed, this War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm was shaping up to be quite the spectacle. Including themselves, the so-called couple, who, at that moment, were walking deeper into the fray, each harboring their own intentions, speaking little.

    "Wee back." Upon hearing she had reached the Establishment stage of the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, numerous students from the Grand Temple approached to greet her.

    These students hailed from dozens of Heavenly Realm families, and most of their parents held official posts within the Immortal Empire. Unlike the mortal sects, the Grand Temple was an educational institution of the Immortal Empire. Students here addressed each other as upperssmen or underssmen, much like in the Cloud Nation.

    In the Cloud Nation, there were also academies for the offspring of officials. While they taught the ways of literature, they also taught martial arts and held contests for both literary and martial prowess. However, in scale and prestige, they could hardly match the Grand Temple of the Immortal Empire.

    Recent gossip had it that Ye Xingchen met his end in a rather embarrassing manner, struck down by Chen Xi''s newlywed husband. Chen Xi''s previous humiliation from a broken engagement a year ago had now evaporated, her reputation soaring once again. Within the Grand Temple, few dared to act rashly in front of her. Aside from the Mu and Ye Families, scarcely anyone would.

    "The Grand Temple is quite the ce. It''s a melting pot of the younger generation, making it a microcosm of the Immortal Empire itself."

    "The likes of the Ye, Mu, and Han ns represent the established powers of the Immortal Empire, naturally wielding greater influence. But a direct descendant of the Chen n isn''t someone ordinary second-generations can mess with!" For this reason, when Yun Xiao entered, he didn''t face the typical disdain one might expect in such settings.

    Everyone knew the tale of the young man in white who''d somehow managed to off the top student of the Grand Temple''s Dragon Ranking. Their expressions varied from amused to bewildered.

    As fate would have it, Yun Xiao and Chen Xi happened to stroll by a rather magnificent spot.

    "Hold on a second." Yun Xiao, utterly captivated, couldn''t help but halt.

    "What''s the matter?" Chen Xi, ever the impatient one, prodded, "Let''s not dilly-dally. I n to top the Dragon Ranking by day''s end."

    "What''s that?" Yun Xiao inquired, pointing ahead. Before himy ake, its surface shimmering like a mirror. Theke was filled with a pure white liquid, emitting an aroma reminiscent of fresh milk¡­ which was precisely why Red Moon had sunk its teeth into his flesh, preventing his departure.

    Upon glimpsing the milky substance, Chen Xi''s thoughts darted to the double bathtub she had prepared in the Divine Dawn Pavilion. Livid, she pinched Yun Xiao''s arm fiercely, eximing, "This is for standing me up!"

    Yun Xiao, wincing from the pain, looked perplexed. What did theke have to do with him breaking a date?

    "Seems there''s people in theke?" Yun Xiao observed earnestly.

    Seeing him so invested, Chen Xi momentarily set aside her grievances, saying, "That''s the Noble Dao Sea."

    "Noble?" Yun Xiao responded with an eyebrow raised in amusement. More lofty ideals about chivalry and honor? The Grand Temple sure had a knack for setting moral high grounds.

    On closer inspection, Yun Xiao noticed tiny, radiant specks floating in the milky waters, looking simr to jade slips, lending the Noble Dao Sea a magnificent and profound aura.

    Faintly visible at theke''s bed was a pentagram formation. Its light converged with the pristine waters, adding a hint of dreamy allure to the already mesmerizingke.

    "What are those jade slips?" Yun Xiao''s curiosity was piqued.

    "Why must you question everything like a toddler?" Chen Xi huffed, clearly exasperated.

    "If you''d simply answer without the sass, I''d speak less," Yun Xiao retorted.

    Giving him a withering look, Chen Xi sighed. "They are daoist spells, passed down from our ancestors. Sealed within the jade slips, they are avable only to the destined."

    "Destined, you say? Well, I believe I am," Yun Xiao grinned, having witnessed Chen Xi''s spells, his intrigue with daoist spells had only intensified.

    Pausing a moment, he said, "Bear with me a moment. I want to try my luck."

    Chen Xi shook her head, "You can''t."

    "Why? There are a dozen folks in there," Yun Xiao pointed out.

    "Only those ranked within the top hundred on the Dragon Ranking may enter the Noble Dao Sea. And most of them are at least at the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm," she rified.

    Disappointed, Yun Xiao sighed, "Guess I''ll return tomorrow."

    "Tomorrow? You''re in the Sovereign Dragon Realm now!" she eximed, knowing he could challenge higher realms. She had, after all, <em>nourished</em> him.

    Surveying the Noble Dao Sea with a look of longing, Yun Xiao appeared thirsty for... something. But it wasn''t thirst. Red Moon had threatened him to the point where he couldn''t take a single step without fearing for his flesh!

    "Oh, fine!" Chen Xi relented. "Didn''t you loot some of the treasures of Chen Xuan and the other teachers of the Grand Temple? There''s another way you can enter the Noble Dao Sea now."

    "How?" Hope sprang in Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    She gestured to a small hut beside theke. "There''s a teacher there. Pay a fee, and you can experience theke for fifteen minutes."

    "How much?" he inquired.

    "A hundred million Spirit Stones," Chen Xi revealed.

    "Good grief, that''s highway robbery! I''lle back tomorrow," Yun Xiao muttered, taking a step, but suddenly, his face turned ashen.

    "What happened?" Chen Xi asked, rmed.

    "Upset stomach¡­ I threw up all night," Yun Xiao exined, clutching his belly.

    "You!" Chen Xi''s face turned a shade of scarlet, and in a fit of fury, she reached for a nearby stone stool, poised to hurl it at Yun Xiao''s head. That man was infuriating!

    But, in the end, she held back. After all, a crowd had formed, eagerly watching their exchange. People always gathered inrge numbers beside the Noble Dao Sea, including youngsters from the Mu, Ye, and Han ns. Some were young kids, gawking at Yun Xiao, while others were Chen Xi''s rivals from the Dragon Ranking.

    "What''s the pinnacle of daoist spells in there?" Yun Xiao asked, still clutching his stomach.

    "The Elemental Scripture," she responded tersely, not in the mood for chit-chat.

    "Elemental Scripture? Is that the name of a spell?"

    "Yes! In the Grand Temple, spells are given poetic names, demonstrating a schr''s refinement. Understand?" Chen Xi chuckled.

    "And the spell you used earlier, what was that?"

    "The Big Bang Spell. Impressed?" Chen Xi replied, lifting her chin ever so slightly.

    "Well,pared to the Elemental Scripture, it sounds a bit... rustic," Yun Xiao said, cracking a grin. "What''s the level of the Elemental Scripture?"

    "Gxy grade," Chen Xi replied, narrowing her eyes, "Why? You interested? That spell represents the orthodoxy of the Grand Temple. To master it, one not only needs exceptional skill but also profound understanding in literary arts. Every aplished practitioner has been a literary giant, a sage of poetry."

    "So, what? I''ve got to recite a couple of poems to unlock it?" Yun Xiao quipped.

    "Exactly."

    "Whatever, I''ll give it a go." Yun Xiao chose it because he didn''t want to waste the one hundred million Spirit Stones. He had no choice. Red Moon had driven him to this point. Today, he needed to spend money to avert a catastrophe.

    "Are you really going to waste that much money?" Chen Xi questioned.

    "We''re practically married, and you''re still mocking me like everyone else? Maybe wish me good fortune instead," Yun Xiao retorted.

    Chen Xi chuckled softly, a twinkle in her eyes.

    Yun Xiao sighed and made his way toward the small hut.

    Some of their conversation was overheard by the students of the Grand Temple. So, before he even approached the hut, an excited voice shouted, "Daoist Chen Miao! Herees a big spender!"

    Yun Xiao just stared, taken aback for a moment. He arrived at the entrance of the small hut to find arge vat ced right outside. And behind that vat stood a stern-faced woman, her gaze icy.

    "Do you know who I am?" the woman questioned, her cold stare never leaving Yun Xiao.

    "Not a clue," Yun Xiao replied, puzzled by her sudden hostility.

    "Chen Xuan was my brother!" she dered with a venomous tone.

    "Oh! Now I remember." Yun Xiao pointed at Chen Xi. "She''s the one who killed your brother, not me. Don''t take it out on me. I was just dragged into this marriage against my will."

    The woman, now identified as Daoist Chen Miao, just stared nkly.

    Then, she noticed Yun Xiao pulling out several Pouches of Holding.

    "That''s my brother''s Pouch of Holding!" Chen Miao''s eyes zed with fury.

    "Nonsense! My wife gave those to me," Yun Xiao retorted, dropping the pouches into the vat. "Count them if you want. I''m going for a dip."

    Chen Miao shot Chen Xi a cold re. She held back any further outburst, simply picking up the Pouch of Holding and muttering, tears glistening, "Brother, your death was truly tragic¡­!"

    "He really spent a hundred million Spirit Stones!"

    "Damn, marrying into a rich family sure has its perks!"

    "That''s dirty money, earned by selling one''s body!"

    Witnessing the scene, the schrs of the Grand Temple couldn''t help but swear, envy evident on their faces.

    "A hundred million Spirit Stones for just fifteen minutes in the Noble Dao Sea? What kind of daft move is that?"

    "Stop being sour. Rich folks like him perceive money differently than poor schrs like you."

    The Noble Dao Sea became the hot topic of the moment.

    Yun Xiao had barely turned when he found himself facing a young man dressed in blue. Thed clutched a folded fan in one hand, and his eyes held the chill of an icy abyss. Under that gaze, it felt as though a frostyyer settled over Yun Xiao''s skin.

    "Mu Shuofeng, back off," Chen Xi warned. In response, concentrated bolts of white lightning curled around the face of the youth in blue.

    Despite the deeper chill in those icy eyes, the youth in blue robes stepped back. "Yun Xiao," he said coldly, "I know the foul game you''re up to."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow in his direction.

    "My sister is on the brink of absorbing the profound mysteries of the Elemental Scripuret! You recklessly spent a hundred million Spirit Stones to descend and disturb her, right?" A murderous glint shed in the young man''s eyes.

    "Your sister?" Yun Xiao''s gaze trailed to the deepest part of the Noble Dao Sea. There, a breathtakingly beautiful young woman sat at the center of theke, enveloped in a mist of icy blue. It was Mu Lingyi.

    "I''ll have you know¡­" The face of the youth in blue robes contorted with malice. "The Grand Temple dictates that anyone who disrupts another''s criticalprehension within the Noble Dao Sea will face the severest of punishments. They''ll be cklisted, forbidden from ever joining the Immortal Empire."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao chuckled lightly, "I must thank you. I hadn¡¯t noticed your sister until your warnings. Now, deeply touched by your threats, I''m even more inclined to ensure she leaves empty-handed."

 Chapter 150: Lowlife Scum!

    Chapter 150: Lowlife Scum!

    A hundred million Spirit Stones for a mere fifteen-minute experience! Such affairs of fools parting with their wealth were always the talk of the town among the wise.

    By the time Yun Xiao stood by theke''s edge, hundreds of students from the Grand Temple had already gathered, whispering amongst themselves with peculiar nces.

    "Jump in!" Red Moon urged, its eyes wide, its barbed tongue hanging out, wriggling impatiently within Yun Xiao''s embrace.

    "Even a monkey wouldn''t be as anxious as you," Yun Xiao replied, wiping sweat from his brow. With a swish of his white robe, he gracefully leapt into the waters of the Noble Dao Sea. The pristine water reached his chest, just the right depth to set Red Moon''s mind at ease.

    "Let''s feast!" Red Moon eximed, diving in with a gulp. And then¡ª"Blech!" In an instant, its face turned a shade of purple, expelling the water it had inhaled, its body convulsing.

    "What is this? It''s revolting! Disgusting!" Red Moon''s face scrunched up,pletely distraught.

    None of this surprised Yun Xiao. "I told you," he remarked with disdain. "This is clearly the bathwater of countless generations of Grand Temple students. Yet you didn¡¯t believe me. What a waste of my precious Spirit Stones!"

    "Wah!" Red Moon wailed.

    "Poor thing. So starved it''s gone mad, seeing everything as food," Blue Star cackled.

    "Deceived by these scoundrels! I''ll eat everyone in this damn temple!" Red Moon raged.

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    "Yes, we must," Yun Xiaoforted. He then focused on a gleaming jade slip floating in the clear waters. "Having spent the money, might as well figure out what it''s about."

    He reached out, taking the jade slip between his slender fingers. Eyes closed, he murmured, "A Lower Star grade daoist spell?" It was at the same grade as Sun Moon Divine Light.

    "What do you think?" Blue Star inquired.

    After merely holding the jade slip for a moment, Yun Xiao released it with a chuckle, "Not bad. It''s a little interesting."

    "..." Blue Star remained silent.

    Yun Xiao then wandered around the Noble Dao Sea, feeling any jade slips he came across. Every time he touched one, his fingers radiated with magic power, merging with the jade slip. Delicate characters emerged from the jade slip, reflecting against his vibrant energy.

    But always, just for a fleeting moment! A single jade slip, and Yun Xiao only held onto it for a mere moment before moving onto the next.

    Within the heart of the Noble Dao Sea, the top hundred disciples in the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, ranked on the Dragon Ranking, usually clutched a single script, lost in deep contemtion. Their reflection sessions typically spanned many days, even weeks.

    ¡°What¡¯s he up to?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s just sampling, right? Getting a feel for it, not really diving deep. Even a Lower Star grade daoist spell can''t be grasped in a mere fifteen minutes.¡±

    ¡°Aha!¡±

    To the disciples of the Grand Temple, Yun Xiao''s actions seemed pretty standard. Boring, even.

    ¡°The esteemed Sword Emperor, spending a whopping hundred million Spirit Stones for a brief jaunt? Not even daring to challenge the daoist spell?¡± Mu Shuofeng grew more convinced that Yun Xiao was just there to stir the pot.

    As Mu Shuofeng predicted, Yun Xiao¡¯s pace of casual browsing quickened. Later on, he even grabbed several jade slips at once, barely touching them before releasing. There were a few times he audaciously reached for jade slips held by others, causing many upperssmen of the Grand Temple to frown, casting icy res his way.

    And so, he inched closer and closer to the center of the Noble Dao Sea. Naturally, this was where all the daoist spells were of a superior ss!

    At the very center was Mu Lingyi, surrounded by a mist, beads of sweat on her forehead, tightly holding onto an icy-blue jade slip. Half of the allotted fifteen minutes had already slipped by.

    ¡°This young fellow''s practically sampled every spell in the Noble Dao Sea, hasn¡¯t he?¡±

    ¡°Only the Elemental Scripture remains!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s truly taken the term sampling to a whole new level.¡±

    Students of the Grand Temple were caught betweenughter and disbelief.

    ¡°If he doesn''t have a few billion Spirit Stones in his pocket, he wouldn¡¯t be wasting money like this.¡±

    Envy was all they felt. Pure envy.

    However, at this moment, led by Mu Shuofeng, a group of students grew tense, for Yun Xiao now stood before Mu Lingyi!

    ¡°If he makes any suspicious moves, Daoist Chen Miao, eliminate him on the spot!¡± Mu Shuofeng''s eyes darkened with foreboding.

    ¡°Eliminate?¡± Chen Miaodao nced at Chen Xi, thinking, "Please don''t send me on a suicide mission."

    She offered a sheepish grin, ¡°I can''t eliminate him, but I¡¯ll dly join you in condemning him.¡±

    ¡°You, a venerable Daoist, are afraid of a mere student, Chen Xi?¡± Mu Shuofeng''s face turned a shade of angry purple.

    Daoist Chen Miao, nervously turtling her neck, said, ¡°My brother wasn''t afraid either. Then, he ended up meeting his maker.¡± She then whispered to Mu Shuofeng, ¡°Young Master, perhaps it''s best if you call your father for this one.¡±

    ¡°Useless!¡± Mu Shuofeng snapped, his voice cold as winter. ¡°What do we even keep you here for? Just prepare yourself to be tossed out of the Grand Temple!¡±

    Daoist Chen Miao seemed to swallow a bunch of sour grapes, speechless.

    Meanwhile, amidst their bickering, Yun Xiao had already explored the four jade slips from the metal, wood, fire, and earth series of the Elemental Scripture. These four took a tad longer to experience¡ªabout two breaths'' time. He''d even raised an eyebrow during the process.

    Only one spell remained, resting securely in Mu Lingyi''s delicate hands.

    Yun Xiao looked up, his gaze meeting a bewitching scene. Amidst the enveloping mist, a breathtaking young woman stood, eyes closed. Dew-like droplets covered her, and the dampness clung to her sheer dress, highlighting her wless skin, presenting a tantalizing glimpse of her form.

    Blue Star remarked, clearly impressed, "Quite the beauty, isn''t she? Shame she picked the wrong hero to align with."

    Hearts of the onlooking Grand Temple students seemed to leap into their throats.

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    ¡°Would he dare disrupt her?¡± one whispered.

    ¡°If he does, it''s beyond contemptible! We cultivators should act nobly and with integrity. Engaging in such disgraceful acts isn''t our way!¡±

    Everyone''s eyes were fixed on Yun Xiao, who stood emotionless, just three feet away from Mu Lingyi. And then, just as they feared, he reached out to her¡­ A collective gasp echoed.

    ¡°Stop!¡± Mu Shuofeng''s eyes zed with fury.

    ¡°That''s low, even for him!¡±

    ¡°Unable to cultivate on his own, he seeks to hinder others? Such an act is a taboo! How could someone so petty be allowed in our Grand Temple''s sacred ground?¡±

    But then, all criticisms halted. <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao''s fingers touched the slip, and instantly, streams of water-light spiraled out of Mu Lingyi, flowing like a dragon along Yun Xiao''s arm, enveloping him.

    ¡°Wha...?!¡± Mu Lingyi''s face turned ghostly pale. Opening her eyes suddenly, she saw the handsome young man in white standing before her.

    ¡°Mu Lingyi, I''vee to enroll in the Grand Temple. Hope I didn¡¯t keep you waiting,¡± Yun Xiao said with a slight smile.

    She nced at the water mist surrounding him, then back at the jade slip in her hand. A sudden force propelled from her mouth, and she spat out a mouthful of blood. Recoiling several steps backward, she appeared as though she''d been pulled from deep waters, gasping and choking on its remnants.

    "Is that all you''ve got? You''re breaking already?" Yun Xiao taunted.

    "You despicable fiend!" Old grudges and fresh anger welled up inside her, and tears streamed down Mu Lingyi''s face.

    Harnessing the power of her Wind Fire Tribtion Realm cultivation, she instantly summoned a roaring water dragon that broke through the calm seas, lunging directly at Yun Xiao''s face¡ªa kill move in a heartbeat.

    "Amusing." With a cold smirk, Yun Xiao''s fingers danced, summoning a cial mist which coalesced into a frosty shield before him. Upon that shield, the symbol for water, consisting of intertwining dragons, red menacingly at Mu Lingyi.

    <em>CRASH! </em>The waters erupted, sending tidal sprays to the heavens. Out of the chaos emerged a silhouette, gracefully alighting next to Chen Xi, the moisture on his clothes and hair evaporating instantly, leaving him refreshed.

    All of this happened in a mere instant. Everyone saw Mu Lingyi''s enraged assault... yet, Yun Xiao survived?

    "Sister! He ruined your enlightenment! Why did you hold back? You could''ve destroyed him then and there!" Mu Shuofeng eximed in disbelief.

    Drifting ashore from the water, Mu Lingyi stared icily at Yun Xiao, her mind in turmoil. "Was that... a Water Mist Shield?" The surrounding students of the Grand Temple, awed by the monstrous tidal wave, had missed the details. But she saw it.

    Despite catching only a fleeting glimpse, the water symbol made of intertwining dragons on the Water Mist Shield was all too familiar. Had it not been for that shield, her enraged attack would have obliterated Yun Xiao¡ªso, where was the mercy?

    "It''s impossible! He''s never been to the Grand Temple before. How could he know the Elemental Scripture? Moreover, his spell was nothingpared to my father''s or grandfather''s Water Mist Shield¡ªitcked that earth-shattering aura..." As this realization settled in, Mu Lingyi''s heart began to steady, but her fury persisted.

    "Yun Xiao..." Past grievances and fresh animosity weighed heavy on her heart. "You, with your underhanded ways, dared to interrupt my enlightenment. Such actions vite the rules of the Grand Temple! I will report you to the Discipline Hall for punishment!" Mu Lingyi dered coldly.

    "Exactly!"

    "If we let this slide, anyone green with envy could just do the same in the future!"

    "Despicable!"

    A chorus of angry voices from over a hundred Grand Temple students echoed in agreement, fingers pointing usingly at Yun Xiao.

    "That lowlife! How could he possibly possess the noble demeanor of a Grand Temple schr?" Mu Shuofeng sneered, his eyes dripping with disdain.

    "Are you lot out of your minds?" Chen Xi, standing by Yun Xiao''s side, looked coldly at the mob. "He hasn''t even officially enrolled yet. He''s not bound by the Grand Temple''s rules. On what grounds would you punish him?"

    Mu Lingyi and the others were suddenly at a loss for words.

    "Well, once he''s enrolled, he won''t escape punishment!" Mu Shuofeng shot back.

    "In that case, he simply won''t enroll," Chen Xi retorted. She was clearly standing her ground to protect her husband.

    "All the better! Such a lowly scoundrel doesn''t deserve the sacred grounds of the Grand Temple!" Mu Shuofeng''s voice dripped with disgust as he red at Yun Xiao. "We can''t let this one rotten apple spoil the bunch!"

    "Right!" the crowd chanted in agreement.

    "Shuofeng..." Mu Lingyi''s face contorted with internal conflict. Leaning into her brother''s ear, she whispered, "Let it go. Father has already set a trap, waiting for him to fall into it."

    "There''s a n from the higher-ups?" Mu Shuofeng''s steps faltered.

    "Exactly." She nodded.

    "Fine then..." Mu Shuofeng''s face darkened. Without another word, he turned and left.

    "Are you still considering joining the Grand Temple?" Chen Xi asked Yun Xiao, a yful arch to her brow.

    "What''s in it for me if I do?" Yun Xiao pondered.

    "The spells, secrets, and treasures of the Grand Temple aren''t the exclusive property of the Mu Family. They belong to the Immortal Empire. With you enrolling in the Grand Temple, you can rightfully im your share," Chen Xi exined.

    "Well, in that case, I''m in!" Yun Xiao nodded. The n remained unchanged.

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    "But," Chen Xi said with a hint of frost, "the fact that those siblings suddenly backed off implies a catch in the uing test."

    "A catch?" Yun Xiao chuckled softly, his voice serene. "Then we''ll simply level the ying field."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 151: You Know, Im Something of a Daoist Master Myself...

    Chapter 151: You Know, I''m Something of a Daoist Master Myself...

    In the blink of an eye, Yun Xiao had squandered a whopping a hundred million Spirit Stones just to interrupt Mu Lingyi''s enlightenment, sending ripples through the entire Grand Temple academy.

    Such behavior in the upright Grand Temple was tantamount to an act of utmost pettiness, one that gods and men alike would abhor! Any honorable schr would surely hold him in contempt.

    "Such an affront to the Grand Temple''s honor, a disgrace to our ancestors!" was themon sentiment.

    Ironically, just fifteen minutester, Yun Xiao found himself inside the Lessar Temple Hall, taking his first step as a new student. The very first ritual required him to pay respects to the statues of the Grand Temple''s Luminaries of Literature.

    Before him stood statues of schrs, with scrolls in hand and an aura of Immortal grace about them. They were the literary giants of the Immortal Empire, those who set the moralpass for generations, teaching the ways of self-cultivation, family harmony, governance, and peace. They were paragons of virtue, the gold standard of the Grand Temple! They were revered by countless generations.

    As for these venerable figures, Yun Xiao, unfamiliar with their legacies, withheld judgment. He simply bowed as tradition dictated, fulfilling the ceremonial rites.

    Up ahead, the ce was packed!

    "This might just be the most lively enrollment in the history of the Grand Temple," Chen Xi remarked with a sarcastic grin. It wouldn''t have been this crowded. But the scandal of Yun Xiao''s interference in the Noble Dao Sea had ruffled quite a few feathers among the upright.

    Everywhere Yun Xiao looked, students of the Grand Temple, adorned in their schrly robes and tall hats, stood with their hands behind their backs, their expressions aloof and haughty as they scrutinized the newly arrived Yun Xiao and Chen Xi.

    And above all, seated in the center with an air of righteousness, was the Grand Temple''s dean, Mu Tianshi. To his left and right stood his children, Mu Lingyi and Mu Shuofeng. Below him, dozens of schrs took their seats¡ªhalf bearing the surname Mu and the other half, Ye.

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    It seemed the sacred ground of this Immortal Empire''s heritage was quickly bing a family business.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t care less. He was here to seize treasures. The tighter the owners held onto their precious assets, the more thrilled he became. But one particr sight rubbed Yun Xiao the wrong way¡ªso much so that it ruffled his usually tranquil feathers!

    Upon stepping into the Lesser Temple Hall, the first figure he locked eyes on wasn''t the dean, Mu Tianshi. Instead, it was a distinguished figure seated next to him.

    On that eminent seat sat a woman with golden pupils. Her hair curled elegantly, her nose sharp and pronounced. Although she was dressed in schrly robes, she arrogantly propped up one leg over the other, creating an incongruous image.

    A faint golden me enveloped her. This wasn''t a human! This was a demon! A demon seated on an honored throne in the sacred human literary hall, receiving bows from honorable schrs?

    "Who is this?" Yun Xiao whispered to Chen Xi. What he really wanted to ask was, "What does your Divine Dawn Empress think of this?"

    "That''s the Ape Saint''s younger sister. The Grand Temple''s honorary foreign schr and the demon envoy from the Demon Continent to the Immortal Empire''s Grand Temple," Chen Xi replied casually, stacking titles like they were pancakes.

    "I see," Yun Xiao muttered.

    "She''s been mingling in the Immortal Empire for years, adopting local customs. Even gave herself a human name," Chen Xi added.

    "And what might that be?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Li Shishi."

    "That name sounds familiar," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Merely a monkey trying to y sophisticated," Chen Xi snickered. Apart from the matter of the Yin and Yang Void, at least when it came to their views on demons, the two were cut from the same cloth.

    Upon entering the Lesser Temple Hall and disregarding the standard bows to the schrs, their whispered conversations and apparent disregard for others quickly brewed a storm of displeasure.

    A couple of schrs from the Mu and Ye ns shook their heads disapprovingly, "A wild woman and a brute from the lower realm, the two, trulyck proper etiquette!"

    Mu Tianshi, however, took it all in stride. Smiling, he said, ¡°Yun Xiao, to enter the Grand Temple, there''s a test. Are you ready?¡± His words, carefully avoiding mentioning his dead son-inw and the incident of his daughter''s enlightenment being interrupted, betrayed an ulterior motive.

    ¡°Ready as I¡¯ll ever be!¡± Yun Xiao dered loudly. ¡°But I have a question. Since ancient times, humans have always been the ones to train monkeys, not the other way around. Why is it that here in the Grand Temple, humans perform for the amusement of the monkeys?¡±

    The entire hall fell into stunned silence. All eyes were on Yun Xiao, including Chen Xi, whose face said it all, "Did he just say that?"

    The only oneughing was the golden eyed Li Shishi. She replied, "Young man, this is the Immortal Empire, and of etiquette and culture. The idea is, if you want to cultivate, first learn culture. Only by embracing diversity can we truly prosper. We demons admire the Immortal Empire''s etiquette and have sent representatives like me to learn. After all, in this vast universe, all beings are equal."

    Mu Tianshi nodded, smiling at Yun Xiao. "In these peaceful times, we should set aside our prejudices and coexist."

    Yun Xiao pped, giving Mu Tianshi a thumbs up. ¡°Just yesterday, a group of dark-furred monkey demons tore a human woman to shreds. Is this the cultural enlightenment you speak of? Perhaps we should send more of our women to your demon brethren for some... hands-on training.¡±

    Mu Tianshi¡¯s face froze, but Li Shishi chuckled. ¡°You''re too harsh, Yun Xiao. Such deeds were the doings of a few wicked ones. As they say, in a big forest, you''ll find all sorts of birds. However, those responsible have been punished. Rest assured.¡±

    "Aye, one of them looked just like you, a golden-furred monkey. His end was... rather gruesome." Yun Xiao casually remarked, summoning his Sword Soul. Within its Blood Crystal Sword Ring, a Golden Eyed me Ape screamed in anguish.

    "Behold!" Yun Xiao unted, rotating the Sword Soul for all to see. "This is the fate of those who wreak havoc in our Immortal Empire." He turned to Li Shishi with a cheeky grin. "Daoist Li, seeing this foolish creature that tarnished your reputation meet such an end, are you pleased?"

    <em>THUD! </em>Li Shishi finally snapped shut, her palm resting heavily on the armrest.

    In a split second, Mu Tianshi restrained her hand, signaling her with a slight shake of his head.

    "Ha." It wasn''tmon for a monkey like Li Shishi to endure such provocations, but her tenure in the Grand Temple had taught her patience. She chuckled softly. "I''m satisfied. Let the trial begin."

    In that final moment, she turned her face away, and in an instant, her delicately powdered visage grotesquely contorted into a sharp-toothed monkey face, her eyes zing as if harboring the fires of hell.

    "Who will test him, the greatest Sword Cultivator the Immortal Empire has ever seen?" Mu Tianshi inquired nonchntly.

    The honorable members of the Grand Temple, having witnessed the chilling exchange, understood one thing clearly. This wasn''t just a trial; it was a battle of wills, all dressed up as an admission test.

    Originally, they''de looking down upon Yun Xiao. But after that exchange, they found themselves begrudgingly impressed.

    "Such audacity..." The crowd exchanged nces, retracting their initial thought of him as despicable. And then their heart rates picked up!

    "I''ll test Young Master Yun."

    "I want in as well!"

    At that moment, figures adorned in schr''s attire walked into the arena. Four of them in total. To the left stood a towering, burly youth with fiery red short hair. His eyes were as big as brass bells, his face peppered with moles. Remarkably, his arms, long and stout, even outmatched Yun Xiao''s waist in girth!

    Next to him was anky youngster, pallid as a sheet. His eyes were a dark shade of red, and a pair of pointed fangs peeked from the corners of his mouth. He had a rather sinister look about him.

    The third was a woman, enchantingly graceful with strikingly narrow, bewitching eyes, which resembled those of a fly.

    And thest one on the right was a tall and skinny fellow, with skin as dark as night and a face as wooden and expressionless as a nk.

    Yun Xiao, upon seeing them, burst intoughter. "Now what''s with the funny outfits, my dear upperssmen? Why do you all look so weird and... dog-like? Ah, you''re from the exotic ns, aren''t you?"

    The redhead seemed of the same species as that brawny redhead who made a ruckus in the Chen Heavenly Mansion¡ªprobably his offspring! The remaining three unmistakably resembled a Blood Demon, a Demon Spider, and a Darkwood Treant. It was truly a motley crew.

    "Yun Xiao, less chatter, more action," Mu Tianshi admonished.

    "Fine, but I have one condition," Yun Xiao responded.

    "You have no right to set conditions during a Grand Temple assessment!" Mu Lingyi snapped coldly.

    "My request is simple." Yun Xiao nced at the four upperssmen and chuckled, "Given the amusing lot you''ve sent, could we maybe have a few more of these oddities?"

    The four Grand Temple disciples bristled in indignation.

    "You''re awfully arrogant. They''re all in the Perfect Demon Meridian Realm" Mu Shuofeng pointed out icily.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao''s gaze fixed on him. "You there, why don''t you join them? Let''s make it a nice round five."

    "Me?" Mu Shuofeng faltered.

    "Don''t have the guts?" Yun Xiao teased with a grin.

    "I fear you won''t be enough to satisfy my thirst for victory." Mu Shuofeng sneered. Without waiting for his father''s approval, he leapt down,nding amidst the four demon students.

    "Ah, the five of you do make quite the picture together¡ªlike peas in a sinister pod," Yun Xiao remarked with mock admiration.

    "Sharp-tongued and petty, you''re no gentleman," Mu Shuofeng scoffed in disdain.

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    "Begin!" Mu Tianshi dered with a hint of amusement, seemingly not wanting to waste another second.

    Yet, just then, Yun Xiao raised his hand. "Wait."

    Mu Tianshi raised an eyebrow. "What now?"

    "Just give me a moment. I need to contemte my strategy," Yun Xiao requested.

    Laughter rippled through the crowd. "I thought he was formidable, but perhaps he''s just all bark and no bite?"

    "He''s stalling. What good is an extra moment going to do?"

    Amidst the sea of incredulous stares, Yun Xiao calmly sat down cross-legged beside Chen Xi.

    "What in the Heavenly Realm are you doing?" Even Chen Xi felt a bit embarrassed.

    "I''m a tad low on magic power," Yun Xiao exined nonchntly.

    "And...?"

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A surge of magic power emanated from Yun Xiao. He opened his eyes slowly, "I thought I might as well break through."

    He''d reached the Establishment Sovereign Dragon Realm!

    Chen Xi was speechless. "Did you just... casually break through like you''re eating a snack?"

    "Don''t be so surprised," Yun Xiao stood, giving her a smoldering look. "That was just the aftereffect ofst night. You were so... energizing. When''s round two?"

    "Watch your mouth in public!" Chen Xi''s face flushed a light shade of pink.

    "We''ll discuss itter."

    The timing of reaching the Establishment Sovereign Dragon Realm couldn''t have been better. Although Yun Xiao had asked for a moment, it felt like mere seconds. His eyes, once filled with mischief, turned cold. He stepped forward, facing the group. "Alright, test me."

    "You make the first move," Mu Shuofeng said confidently, his magic power swirling around him as he fixed Yun Xiao with a stormy gaze.

    From the sidelines, the four didn''t underestimate their opponent. They had already started to transform, preparing to unleash their lethal forms at any moment.

    "I won''t draw my sword today," Yun Xiao suddenly dered.

    "No sword? Then what do you have to offer?" Mu Shuofeng sneered.

    "You know, I''m something of a daoist master myself," Yun Xiao said, calm as still water.

    The crowd was rendered speechless.

    "Don''t believe me?" Yun Xiao nced around challengingly.

    "Attack!" Mu Shuofeng couldn''t contain himself any longer. He felt as if Yun Xiao was deliberately mimicking the way his brother-inw, Ye Xingchen, spoke. Was this a veiled insult?

    At Mu Shuofeng''smand, the red-haired youth transformed into a Ghost Face Baboon wreathed in ghostly mes. Beside him stood a Blood Demon shrouded in a fog of blood, a ck Man Faced Demon Spider, and a Darkwood Treant.

    "Storm,e forth!" With a flick of his folding fan, Mu Shuofeng summoned a tempest that roared toward Yun Xiao.

    In an instant, threats loomed from all sides. Clearly, these prodigious talents in the Immortal and Demon Meridian Realm weren''t holding back one bit. It was an all-out assault.

    But Yun Xiao smirked, "Thinking I spent a hundred million Spirit Stones just to meddle with Mu Lingyi in the Noble Dao Sea?" His eyes zed with a fierce red fire. Inside his Nine Dragons Dantian, the power of the Establishment Sovereign Dragon Realm surged forth, erupting with zing speed.

    "Elemental Scripture, Fire God''s Wrath!" His magic power morphed into fiery serpents that wrapped around him, culminating at his fingertips, channeling the intense fire of heaven and earth.

    Suddenly, a zing pentagram appeared beneath everyone''s feet. With a whoosh, it emitted countless mes.

    "Seal!" Bathed in fire, Yun Xiao pressed down with his palm. Above the fiery pentagram, a vast sea of heaven and earth fire converged, forming a massive fireball, within which roared a hundred dragons.

    "WHAT!?" The Grand Temple echoed with gasps of astonishment.

    Yun Xiao paid no heed, his eyes fixated on the four approaching beasts, murder in his gaze. "Monkeys mimicking man, what a joke!" With a resonant shout, he sent the Fire God''s Wrath hurtling down, splitting into four to target each of the demon students.

    The ominous hum filled the air. The four demons were immediately engulfed by raging mes, their screams echoing as they were reduced to ashes.

    "What kind of magic is this..." Their minds shattered in shock and horror as they perished. They had studied for years and had never witnessed such terrifying power. After all, Mu Tianshi had never demonstrated this to them before.

    This was the Gxy grade daoist spell, revered in the Grand Temple, a sorcery spell of the dao and the pinnacle of the innate five elements!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>With the Fire God''s Wrath, the four demon students were annihted. The destruction was so fierce that Yun Xiao couldn''t even harness their essence. They simply vanished.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>With a wave of his hand, the roaring inferno within the Lesser Temple Hall was absorbed in an instant, all of its magic power returning to his palm. Before him, only Mu Shuofeng remained, standing frozen like a statue, eyes bulging and drenched in sweat.

    Silence once again consumed the Lesser Temple Hall.

    The distinguished members of the Grand Temple exchanged nces.

    "Is... is that the Elemental Scripture?"

    "It seems... it seems so."

    "Uh, has he practiced this before?"

    "He couldn''t possibly have just picked it up in fifteen minutes, right?"

    Their voices were barely above a whisper.

    A hundred million Spirit Stone, all to mess with Mu Lingyi?

    Mu Lingyi''s face was a mask of confusion, recalling Yun Xiao''s Water Mist Shield conjured in the blink of an eye over the Noble Dao Sea. She was dumbfounded.

    Not just her, even Chen Xi was struck with astonishment. A haze of bewilderment fogged her thoughts. "What kind of freak of nature are you?" she murmured, staring at the back of the young man in white. Closing the distance between them, she seized Yun Xiao''s arm, her voice hushed and urgent. "Don''t tell me you learned all of the spells from the Noble Dao Sea in just those fifteen minutes? There are hundreds!"

    "Nonsense. I learned all those long ago. Mu Tianshi... he''s my illegitimate son¡ªoh wait, I got that backward." Yun Xiao replied with a wry smile.

    "..." Chen Xi was rendered speechless to make gags even at a time like this.

    High on the tform, Li Shishi shot a furious re at Mu Tianshi. "Are you ying games with me?"

    "It''s impossible!" Mu Tianshi was truly the most astonished of all. He knew better than anyone that Yun Xiao couldn''t have been exposed to the Elemental Scripture before. All in the span of fifteen minutes? His mind raced with disbelief.

    "I''ll exinter." With that, Mu Tianshi looked down to his son, "Shuofeng,e up here!"

    "Yes... Father." Mu Shuofeng, already having lost his fighting spirit, was petrified. The prowess of the Gxy grade Elemental Scripture! Even if executed with the weakest magic power, it was not something someone in the Immortal Meridian Realm could counteract.

    "At least, thisd respects our Mu n," Mu Shuofeng mused, relief washing over him. "He only dared to y the demons, not me." With that, he decided to make a swift exit.

    However, just as Mu Shoufeng took his first step, thousands of ck wooden tendrils surged from the ground beneath, piercing and ensnaring him like countless swords.

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    "ARGH¡­!" His eyes bulged, then literally popped out of their sockets. He stared in shock at the sight before him, the vision of his father now dotted with more holes than man, as darkness overtook his gaze.

    Behind him, Yun Xiao casually dusted off his hands, smiling at Mu Tianshi. "I guess that concludes the admission test, right?" he called out cheerfully. "Tell me, Mu Tianshi, do my crude methods deserve a ce in the grand and righteous Grand Temple?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 152: Genius Schmenius, Kill Him First!

    Chapter 152: Genius Schmenius, Kill Him First!

    Elemental Scripture! This was the very foundation of the Grand Temple''s faith and its cornerstone.

    Using this spell, Yun Xiao first slew the exchange student from the Demon Continent, then annihted Mu Tianshi''s son. Yet, afterwards, he humblybeled the spell as crude and asked if this qualified him a ce in the Grand Temple! Each word was like a dagger to the heart!

    After obliterating a man and four demons, Yun Xiao still dared to taunt?

    "He''s audacious, but he''s a goner for sure now!" Many Grand Temple students started seeing Yun Xiao in a new light. Apart from shock and astonishment, they also couldn''t help but be anxious for him.

    That was because the so-called schrly faction controlled by the Mu n and Ye Royal Family was no charitable institution. Beneath those elegant robesy deadly weapons!

    <em>BOOM! </em>In a split second, several magic treasures surrounded Yun Xiao. Pearls, seals, cauldrons, and stones¡ªall for attack and suppression! Dozens of spells whistled from above, around, and below, with elements of wind, fire, earth, water, thunder, frost, and ice, leaving spectators dazzled! The daoists present didn''t waste words¡ªthey acted!

    "To think that hiding behind the Grand Temple''s entrance examination as a pretext for murder means he won''t be directly annihted? Naive!"

    "Genius scheminus, kill him first! Talkter!"

    "He killed Mu Tianshi''s son!"

    After Ye Xingchen was defeated in a duel to the death, Mu Tianshi was powerless. But now, seeing his beloved son killed right under his nose, he let out a heart-wrenching cry. His eyes split with fury as he pointed a finger. A beam of white light shot towards Yun Xiao''s forehead, piercing through the void!

    "Die!"

    All deadly spells!

    "Huh?" This was somewhat unexpected for Yun Xiao. "I thought you folks would pretend to be righteous and keep holding back," he remarked with a smirk. Facing this overwhelming onught, he didn''t even blink. And why would he? With the Divine Dawn Empress by his side and an ace up his sleeve, wasn''t an attack on him an attack on Chen Xi too?

    These countless spells and magic treasures were indiscriminate!

    As the killing intent approached in a sh, countless Grand Temple students cried out in rm. But in that fleeting moment, white thunder dragons surged around Yun Xiao and Chen Xi, intertwining to form a sphere of lightning dragons, encapsting the duo within!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>A barrage of magic treasures struck the lightning sphere. They either exploded on impact or were deflected, with several of the daoists spitting up blood. All the other spells were swallowed whole by the lightning.

    The beam of white light from Mu Tianshi managed to shatter the protective sphere, but it exhausted all his magic power in the process. Amidst the aftershock, Yun Xiao and Chen Xi were jolted backward. The handsome young man and the beautiful woman''s hair and robes danced wildly in the aftermath.

    Chen Xi reached out, embracing Yun Xiao by the waist. With fierce assertiveness, she asked, "You alright?"

    "Totally." Yun Xiao coughed, prying away her hand, trying to salvage his dignity.

    The crowd was in a state of disbelief. A dozen daoists, including Mu Tianshi, tried to assassinate Yun Xiao, only for theirbined might to be effortlessly negated by one person''s daoist spell. Who could possibly possess such power?

    All eyes turned to the entrance, filled with anticipation and apprehension.

    Three figures strode into the hall, the clink of their boots resonating with authority. At their lead was a man in white tiger armor, imposing and emanating a domineering aura. It was none other than the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, Chen Xiao.

    To his left was a man in a violet robe, exuding an air of wisdom. He was the honored guest of the Spirit Treasure Pce and Great Dao Pavilion Master, Zhao Xuanjan.

    On Chen Xiao''s right was a woman in deep blue official robes, her long hair neatly tied up. Her eyes, cold and sharp, matched the intensity of the two men beside her. Yun Xiao had been introduced to her at the wedding. This was Qi Lan, a Minister of one of the Six Immortal Divisions. The only woman in such a position and renowned for her extraordinary talents.

    Qi Lan was the Minister of War. She oversaw the recruitment, logistics, resources, and so on of the Immortal Empire''s army. She was essentially the woman behind the Supreme Marshal. Not in a romantic sense, of course. Though, her presence indicated a close rtionship with Chen n.

    Given the status of these three, each of them deserved as much respect as Mu Tianshi. The students quickly bowed, saying, "We greet the Supreme Marshal, Master Zhao, and Madam Qi."

    Protocol dictated that Mu Tianshi and his entourage should step down to wee these guests. But they didn''t. It was clear; the two groups were like oil and water.

    The lightning shield surrounding Yun Xiao and Chen Xi hadn''t, in fact,e from Chen Xi herself¡ªit was the doing of the Supreme Marshal! This meant one thing. The Supreme Marshal and Mu Tianshi had already shed.

    <em>THUD! </em>The Supreme Marshal, with his imposing presence, stepped between his daughter and son-inw. His heavy iron boots crushed the azure tiles of the Grand Temple, causing tremors that reached the highest seats.

    As the ground cracked beneath them, the daoists of the Grand Temple had no choice but to leap to their feet, their seats of honor pulverized in an instant.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Both Mu Tianshi and Li Shishi''s prestigious seats were shattered into fine powder. Landing gracefully, they shot cold res in the direction of the intruder.

    ¡°Supreme Marshal, you sure know how to make an entrance!" Li Shishi proimed with disdain. "Breaking into the sacred Grand Temple, disrespecting our ancestors, and unting your power with such disregard! You''re nothing short of a menace."

    The Supreme Marshal nonchntly spat on the ground and sneered, ¡°Why should you care, monkey butt? This Grand Temple seems to have more demons than dieties, more posers than actual schrs" His words were, ironically, apt.

    ¡°Chen Xiao!¡± Mu Tianshi growled, veins pulsating at his fingertips. "As the Immortal Empire''s Supreme Marshal, you''ve abandoned all propriety and wreaked havoc. I shall report your actions to the Empress."

    "Go ahead. All you ever do is whine. If you''re so righteous, why note down and face me now?" the Supreme Marshal jeered.

    Taking a deep breath, Mu Tianshi retorted, "This is a ce of sanctity, where those of us with education and purity reside. We cannot stoop to the brutish level of a barbarian like you."

    "Really? Even after your son''s death, you still stand here spouting nonsense?" The Supreme Marshal pped sarcastically. After a heartyugh, his expression turned icy. "So, you schrs and posers up in your high temple look down upon us, the soldiers who shed blood and risk our lives for the Immortal Empire?"

    "Watch your tongue! My issue is with you and only you," Mu Tianshi shot back coldly, then turned to Yun Xiao. "And you! Killing people openly during the Grand Temple''s entrance examination? You''ve broken thews of the Immortal Empire!"

    "I didn''t kill any people, did I?" Yun Xiao blinked, genuinely puzzled. "Does a demon count as a person?"

    "There was indeed a human among the dead," Chen Xi confirmed.

    "What?" Yun Xiao''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "I must''ve misjudged. But can you me me? If you hang around with demons, you''re bound to reek of their miasma. From afar, I thought it was just another demon!"

    The Supreme Marshal''s brazenments were one thing. But these two young ones acting all innocent and ying dumb after a murder had the Mu n and Ye Royal Family members seething in silent rage.

    "Mu Tianshi!" The Supreme Marshal''s eyes narrowed, a frosty smile forming on his lips. "You sent five Perfect Demon Meridian Realm demons during a simple entrance examination to try and kill my son-inw, hoping to avenge your own son-inw''s death. Everyone can see right through your devious plots. If you''ve now bitten off more than you can chew, that''s on you. It''s karma, and you can''t escape it."

    Mu Tianshi''s face twisted, his eyes bloodshot with fury.

    As for Mu Lingyi, shey beside her brother''s hole-riddled body, a figure of pure sorrow.

    Mu Tianshi exchanged nces with Li Shishi.

    "Are you about to tell my n to watch our backs during the War of Immortals? That the winds in the Heavenly Realm are strong and we might just get blown away?" The Supreme Marshal chuckled darkly, then, gesturing grandly, announced, "I came today to formally notify you all. As of today, my Chen n withdraws from the Grand Temple Academy and the War of Immortals."

    The whole room was abuzz.

    "Supreme Marshal¡­" Mu Tianshi began coldly, "Training in the Grand Temple is a tradition of the Immortal Empire. Are you openly opposing the Divine Dawn Empress? Is your n nning a rebellion?"

    "Rebellion, my foot!" The Supreme Marshalughed scornfully. "This Grand Temple of the Immortal Empire has be nothing but a private property for your Mu n and Ye Royal Family. You''ve pocketed all the resources and wealth under the guise of tradition. You feed yourselves and give mere crumbs to ns like mine. You leave nothing for the other hopefuls, ensuring your own offspring rise to prominence. And you dare call this a sacred ce?"

    Pointing at the corpse of Mu Tianshi''s son, the Supreme Marshal chuckled. "That spoiled pig of a son you fattened up? He''s not evenparable to the mortal I picked for a son-inw. Tell me, what value does the Grand Temple hold? From the age of ten, members of my n will train in my Nine Heavens Immortal Army, ying demons and evil in the lower realms. It''s far more honorable than your petty politics and pointless poetry debates."

    The moment those words left his lips, the face of Mu Tianshi turned a deep shade of ck¡ª so ck, one might''ve thought he''d been dipped in ink.

    There were certain truths that, when left unsaid, everyone could maintain a semnce of dignity. But when aired in front of arge audience, well, they tended to make things¡­ awkward.

    Many of the students at the Grand Temple were not of the Mu n or Ye Royal Family. These students, backed by the fortunes and aspirations of their families, had paid heavily for the privilege to study at the academy, hoping to someday stand out amongst their peers. Despite their best efforts, though, opportunities seemed scarce for them within its hallowed halls.

    On the other hand, students of the Mu n, Ye Royal Family, and even the Han n seemingly soared to great heights with ease, creating a yawning gap between them and their peers. Once, the general consensus had been envy, attributing their sess to the resources of their powerful families. But now, if the Supreme Marshal''s words were anything to go by, it seemed that the treasures of the Immortal Empire¡¯s treasury meant for all young cultivators were being monopolized by a select few. And it appeared that even the foreign demon exchange students lived lives of luxury...

    Whispers filled the air as everyone exchanged nces, their faces painted with confusion and frustration.

    In the midst of the stifling silence, Mu Tianshi, his face void of emotion, stated, "Supreme Marshal, it seems you are desperately trying to sully the name of the Grand Temple with baseless usations. Your actions today are clear for all to see. With the War of Immortals looming, you seek to divide and disrupt the unity of the Immortal Empire for your own personal gain. Such actions are criminal... The Grand Temple will report this! Go back to your Chen Heavenly Mansion and await the edict from the Divine Dawn Empress."

    "And what if the Empress does not issue one?" the Supreme Marshal retorted with a cold smirk.

    "The Chen n is a major family of the Heavenly Realm, and your actions are subject to the oversight of the Ancestral Temple. They too have the right to judge you. Without evidence, it simply proves you seek to tarnish the reputation of the Grand Temple and eliminate any opposition. Prepare yourself for a cell."

    The Supreme Marshal let out a sarcasticugh. "The Ancestral Temple? Aren¡¯t they also surnamed Ye? Their future star, Ye Xingchen, met his end at my Chen Heavenly Mansion, emerging only to beid in a coffin. Do you really think they don''t want me dead? Tsk tsk tsk..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 153: Master, Ill be Your Kindred Spirit

    Chapter 153: Master, I''ll be Your Kindred Spirit

    The students of the Grand Temple exchanged puzzled and awkward nces upon hearing the Supreme Marshal''s words, their whispers growing into a buzzing discourse. The chatter swelled as more and more joined the conversation.

    Most students felt slighted! So, they found it hard not to believe what the Supreme Marshal had said. The Nine Heavens Immortal Army, the legion of countless cultivators, was indeed the sword of the Heavenly Realm!

    This Supreme Marshal was not only renowned for his might but also for his prestige, earning the unwavering loyalty of the entire army.

    "Mu Tianshi," Li Shishi whispered, "when schrs meet soldiers, words fail. Further discussion is pointless. It''s time to show them out."

    "Hmm..." Mu Tianshi''s gaze lingered on his son''s lifeless body, a sight that tore his heart apart. "Chen Xiao,..." he murmured, "He must have anticipated my trap during the assessment. He waited outside, ready to seize any advantage. He has such faith in his son-inw."

    Mu Tianshi''s eyes were filled with a chilling malice. Twice! Twice, it had been Yun Xiao who''d foiled his ns! He''d built this high-stakes game built around the Grand Temple''s entrance examination, where the fate of the younger generation determined the confidence and mindset of the higher-ups. And he''d lost itpletely, with his hubris costing him his son this time.

    Mu Tianshi''s patience had snapped. Regardless of his bravado, the news of this would surely tarnish the Grand Temple''s reputation for the next century... undoubtedly affecting their profits.

    "Supreme Marshal¡­" Mu Tianshi said with a cold edge, "From today, the sacred ground of the Grand Temple no longer wees a nderous brute like you. Goodbye!" He pointed towards the exit, his voice hardening, "Effective immediately, all members of the Chen n will have their enrollments in the Grand Temple revoked, forever!"

    "Oh?" The Supreme Marshal chuckled, "The enrollment of my Chen n members into the Grand Temple is a decree of the Immortal Empire. I might leave, but you don''t have the authority to revoke it, understand?"

    "As long as I''m in the Grand Temple, none of your barbaric Chen n members will set foot in here!" Mu Tianshi dered coolly.

    "Well, it''s simple." The Supreme Marshal chuckled. "Once you''re dead and they find a new dean, my people can stroll right in, can''t they?"

    Mu Tianshu''s face turned even icier at thement.

    "Something''s up," Li Shishi whispered. "He seems ready for a confrontation. Is there any point to this?"

    "I''m not sure. He''s always been unpredictable... but this insult won''t be forgotten easily. It feels like my insides are tearing apart," Mu Tianshi gritted out. The man before them, adorned in white tiger armor, didn''t strike anyone as a mere brute.

    Just then, Chen Xi, standing next to him, suddenly interjected, "Father, you can have the others withdraw if you want, but I''m staying."

    "Why won''t you leave? Are you defying me?" the Supreme Marshal shot back, eyes ring.

    "No!" Chen Xi lifted her chin defiantly, looking at Mu Tianshi. "I''ve said that once I returned to the Heavenly Realm, I was going to top the Dragon Ranking. I''ll trample over everyone who mocked me a year ago. How can I do that if you pull me out of the Grand Temple?"

    "Fine." The Supreme Marshal nodded in resignation. "You and Yun Xiao can keep your positions. The rest will withdraw."

    "Father, I want to head to the Star Schr tform now and issue a challenge on the Dragon Ranking!" Chen Xi''s cold eyes shifted to Mu Lingyi, dering confidently, "All you top ten prodigies on the list, be ready for my challenge!"

    When one wave subsided, another arose! After the son-inw''s brawl, now the daughter was stepping up!

    The students of the Grand Temple were buzzing with excitement, many shouting, "Fight!"

    "This is going to be a great show!"

    After the heated exchange between the Supreme Marshal and Mu Tianshi, with tensions boiling, and after the blow Mu Tianshi had taken, he''d surely want some redemption, right?

    However, ording to the rules of the Dragon Ranking, whether to fight or not wasn''t up to him. If someone issued a challenge and the person who was challenged refused, that person would be dropped from the ranking, surrendering their rank to the challenger. And worst of all? They''d be aughingstock for life!

    "Dean!" Chen Xi said with a feigned respect. "I''ve always been a good student at the Grand Temple, never once breaking its rules. Surely, you wouldn''t expel me for no reason? If it''s because you''re sore with my father and want to vent your anger on me, I can just sever our father-daughter ties. Honestly, I''ve been annoyed with him for a long time now."

    The Supreme Marshal raised an eyebrow, looking as if he''d been pped with filial ingratitude.

    Mu Tianshi stayed silent, lost in thought.

    "Since Mu Tianshi seems to acknowledge my legitimacy," Chen Xi smirked, "I''ll head to the Star Schr tform now." With that, she took Yun Xiao''s hand and left gracefully in her flowing white dress.

    "Let''s go watch the show my <em>former</em> daughter is about to put on," the Supreme Marshal said with a sly grin, turning to Zhao Xuanjian and Qi Lan.

    "My heart goes out to you, brother," Zhao Xuanjian consoled, patting the Supreme Marshal''s shoulder. "Losing a daughter like that. If you ever feel theck of family, I can always pretend to be your dad..."

    "Buzz off..."

    After their departure, the atmosphere in the Lesser Temple Hall grew more peculiar. One by one, the students of the Grand Temple gave Mu Tianshi a customary salute before respectfully stepping back. Once outside the hall, the young group couldn''t hold back any longer and rushed toward the Star Schr tform.

    "Mu Tianshi?" Li Shishi raised an eyebrow at him.

    "He only has three people with him!" Mu Tianshi directed his gaze to the golden-eyed woman. "Call your older brother. I''ll summon the Ye Royal Family and Han n."

    "It''s about time," Li Shishi scoffed. "We shouldn''t waste time reasoning with such brutish monkeys like him."

    Mu Tianshi blinked, taken aback. The illustrious Marshal of the Immortal Empire had just been called a brutish monkey by a monkey! The irony was not lost on him. After a moment''s thought, he added, "And summon Lady Hua Lian too."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Grand Temple, within the Pavilion of Etiquette, sat a residence whose splendor was unmatched. The scene looked as though it had been plucked from an exquisite painting. The aroma of blooming flowers pervaded the air, while soft murmurs of flowing water filled the silence.

    The courtyard was nketed in a mystical fog that yed hide and seek with ake, miniature mountains, and a vi.

    Within the vi, a plush chaise lounge was ced. As the fog danced around it, one could see anguid woman reclining. She was draped in a dress adorned with cherry blossoms, its neckline daringly low, revealing her ivory shoulders. Her armsy elegantly, her wless skin pressing together to form alluring contours. Her hair, tinted with a soft pink hue against its silvery white strands, sprawled on the lounge like cascading silver blossoms,plementing her jade skin. Through the haze, her eyes looked dreamy, her lips were a soft shade of pink, and every nce seemed like a silent plea, as if she had a myriad of tales to share.

    She was breathtakingly beautiful. Her beauty was unlike any seen in the mortal world or among the nobility of the Heavenly Realm. She exuded an enchanting allure, yet retained an air of purity. She was like a pot of floral wine, with a gentle fragrance yet a potent taste. Her slender fingers, graceful figure, and elongated legs concealed an allure that tugged at one''s heartstrings. Yet, her face was so tender it evoked a deep sense of pity and protection. Shey there, basking in the afternoon sun, humming a ditty from the mortal realm.

    But then, a moment was interrupted. A silver-haired individual with moonlit eyes approached her, barefooted, careful not to gaze directly at her overwhelming grace.

    "My dear Moon," she beckoned softly, her lustrous eyes fixed on the silver-haired figure. "Come closer."

    "Yes, Master," the silver-haired youth replied, moving closer. Their gaze now met the face of this enchanting woman.

    At that moment, six pink fox tails emerged from behind her, gently caressing the face of the silver-haired youth. In a soft whisper, she asked, "Oh? Have you made another breakthrough?"

    "Yes," Moon Fairy replied, trying not to flinch from the tingling sensation on his face.

    "How wonderful," the enchanting woman said, stretching out her porcin arms. "Come here."

    "Of course..." Moon Fairy leaned in, allowing the woman to pull him into her embrace, his face enveloped in her intoxicating fragrance.

    Elsewhere, Blue Star and Red Moon were fussing about wanting to follow the body double. Yun Xiao gave them a yful pinch and then turned his attention back to the pair of foxes.

    The beautiful woman held Moon Fairy, her six pink fox tails winding around him. Yet, she didn''t say a word.

    "Master, what are you thinking about?" Moon Fairy whispered, listening to the slow beat of her heart.

    "The human world is such a delightful ce," she murmured dreamily.

    "What''s so great about it?" Moon Fairy asked.

    The beautiful woman traced a finger gently down his cheek, her gaze lost in the babbling brook of the courtyard. "Humans have profound loves and fleeting passions. They cherish moments under falling petals and by meandering streams. They share drinks by the river,ment lost loves,pose songs about the river''s tales, and bask in countlessntern lights."

    "Human hearts areplex. What''s good about that?" Moon Fairy shook his head.

    "It''s precisely theirplexity that gives rise to such deep emotions and close bonds," she said, her gaze distant. "Look at the bustling world. Everyone, from themon man to the soldier, has a story. They have families, fulfill their life''s purposes. They create literature, art, and history that stand the test of time. Festivals light up the world..."

    "Isn''t that also true in the Demon Continent?" Moon Fairy felt a haze cloud his vision.

    "How could it be?" The beautiful woman sighed softly. "Humans have humanity, while demons act on base instincts. In the world of demons, there''s only desire, hunger, battle, and plunder. The Demon Continent doesn''t have cities, onlyirs."

    "Master, it''s okay," Moon Fairy reassured her softly. "Whether human or demon, the path for both leads to bing Immortals. If one bes a True Immortal, the human world''s glories and the demon world''s chaos are but fleeting dreams. If a world for Demon Immortals exists, surely it must be a ce of peace? After all, a demon that achieves Immortality would surely have risen above its primal desires, embracing its immortal nature."

    She looked down at him, a gentle smile ying on her lips. "You''re quite the idealist, aren''t you?"

    "Why do you say that?" Moon Fairy inquired.

    "The Heavenly Dao is fleeting, the path to immortality distant and illusory. In the history of the Divine Continent and the Demon Continent, everyone ims to be an Immortal. Yet, no one truly is. Where does the path to true immortality lie? Who truly knows? Be it the human world or demon world, we''re all just living beings scuttling at the bottom, seeking enlightenment," the woman said, her voice tinged with self-mockery. "If we''re all adrift, it''s far more pleasurable to be a human in this bustling world than a demon."

    "You wish you were human?" Moon Fairy asked curiously.

    The beautiful woman offered a mncholic smile. "In this life, I started as a fox. After a life of diligent cultivation, I took on a human form. But while I may look human, my heart remains that of a fox. Standing here, in this world of humans, many fear me. How can I find a truepanion to share my life''s journey? I''ve wandered alone, always searching, yet never finding."

    Hearing this, Moon Fairy remained silent for a long while. Finally, a gleam in his eyes, he softly spoke, "If you wish for a kindred spirit, I volunteer."

    The beautiful woman looked taken aback, gently pinching his cheek. "My dear Moon Fairy, you''re a demon. You don''t understand humans."

    Moon Fairy offered a slight smile. "But I do, Master."

    As the words left his mouth, a voice from outside interrupted, "Lady Hua Lian, Mu Tianshi wishes to see you."

 Chapter 154: Claim the Top Spot, Marry Divine Dawn!

    Chapter 154: im the Top Spot, Marry Divine Dawn!

    At the Grand Temple, atop the Star Schr tform, this was a battle tform forged from Neb grade spirit ore, spanning ten thousand feet in both length and width. It was impervious to both physical and magic attacks.

    For thousands of years, countless prodigies dueled here. Some shed blood and tears, while others rose to the heavens in a single step. Their tales, weathered by sun and rain, were washed away, lost in the river of time.

    Generations of the Immortal Empire''s pirs had, in their youth, risen like stars on this very tform.

    Around the Star Schr tform, there were tens of thousands of seats. Now, they were filled with numerous students of the Grand Temple, sitting solemnly. They were people of etiquette, respectful in this formal setting, whispering among themselves but not daring to raise their voices.

    Their hushed conversations, of course, revolved around the recent sh in the Lesser Temple Hall. And the juicy scandal revealed by the Supreme Marshal. Suspicion-filled and indignant gazes from the students were cast upwards to the sky above the tform.

    Floating there was a massive orb, several thousand feet in diameter. This was the Schr Temple! Its exterior was engraved with myriad runes, along with portraits of past sages. It hung in the sky, watching over theter generations.

    Whenever there was a duel on the Star Schr tform, the upper echelons of the Grand Temple and major figures of the Immortal Empire would watch and supervise from within this Schr Temple. Their bird''s eye view, authoritative and imposing, added even more pressure on the dueling students, testing their mental fortitude.

    Now, Mu Tianshi and his entourage took their seats within the Schr Temple ahead of the others. Beside him, in the quietest spot, apart from Mu Lingyi, there were two others.

    One was his wife, Ye Qingli from the Ye Royal Family. Freshly grieving the loss of her beloved son, her eyes were bloodshot and filled with murderous intent. She was enveloped in a cloud of despair.

    The other was a young man in a golden robe. With a long face, prominent nose, and thin lips, he radiated an aura reminiscent of an angry dragon.

    This young man was named Ye Shengyin, a direct descendant of the Ye Royal Family. His father was the current n leader of the Ye Royal Family and also the Temple Master of the Ancestral Temple.

    Years ago, before the Divine Dawn Empress ascended to the heavens, his father Ye Qingtian held the title of Emperor of the Immortal Empire, and Ye Shengyin was the crown prince. Now, he could only be seen as a pretender to the throne.

    "Shengyin!" Ye Qingli, suppressing her grief, looked intensely at the young man in gold. "The Imperial Seal, can you truly control it?"

    Justst night I mastered it. Originally, I was saving it as my trump card for the War of Immortals. But today... for the sake of avenging Shuofeng and Xingchen, I''ll bring it out,¡± Ye Shengyin said, his gaze fixed intently on the two white figures below the Grand Temple.

    With the death of Ye Xingchen, everyone on the Dragon Ranking had advanced a rank. Now, the most glorious name at the top was none other than Ye Shengyin!

    ¡°Auntie, my condolences,¡± Ye Shengyin whispered, noting the depth of grief in Ye Qingli''s eyes. His urge to kill only intensified. Ye Xingchen was his sworn brother, and it was by this bond he called Ye Qingli his aunt. Only her, Mu Tianshi, and Mu Lingyi were genuine family.

    ¡°Use it!¡± Mu Tianshi''s face was an icy mask, still stung by the humiliation he''d suffered earlier. ¡°The War of Immortals willmence in a few days. With a Gxy grade treasure like the Imperial Seal at your disposal, your opponents won¡¯t have time to prepare.¡±

    ¡°Rest assured, uncle,¡± Ye Shengyin nodded.

    ¡°Your father spared no expense to help you control the Imperial Seal. He wanted you to overpower all those human and demon prodigies, to emerge as the victor of the War of Immortals, and to marry the Divine Dawn Empress. This battle with Chen Xi is inevitable. Sooner orter. Think of today as a warm-up,¡± Mu Tianshi said coolly.

    ¡°Now, in our Heavenly Realm''s Immortal Empire, it''s just you and her at the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. Defeating her would surely boost our Ye Royal Family''s prestige,¡± Ye Qingli chimed in.

    A fight was imminent, and both Mu Tianshi and Ye Qingli wanted revenge for their son, wanting to embarrass their enemies on the spot.

    ¡°Marry the Divine Dawn Empress¡­¡± The thought of defeating Chen Xi didn¡¯t excite Ye Shengyin much. He had only one true rival before: the meteorically rising Ye Xingchen, his sworn brother. Ye Xingchen had trailed behind him for years, only to surpass him recently and topple him from the top rank. As for Chen Xi... well, he''d bested her at least ten times since childhood.

    He knew her all too well. Chen Xi''s only aplishment since her return was defeating a few novice and mid-level cultivators. Hardly noteworthy. But winning the War of Immortals, marrying the Divine Dawn Empress, producing heirs, and restoring the Ye Royal Family''s dominance was his true ambition.

    ¡°With Shengyin''s abilities, even without the Imperial Seal, defeating Chen Xi should be easy, right?¡± Mu Lingyi asked softly. She knew just how formidable her cousin was¡ªborn to be a crown prince, limitless potential, unparalleled lineage, endless resources, and an unmatched work ethic.

    ¡°Lingyi,¡± Ye Shengyin shook his head. ¡°Defeating her is easy, but to obliterate her in a sh in front of the Supreme Marshal, I''ll need the Imperial Seal. She¡¯s too confident, so she probably has some trick up her sleeve. We can¡¯t be careless and give her any chance of escape. Otherwise, our reputation in the Grand Temple will never recover.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Mu Lingyi nodded obediently.

    Ye Shengyin sighed. ¡°It''s heartbreaking that a kind soul like Lingyi has lost two important people in her life. Just what kind of monsters are those two from the Chen Heavenly Mansion to be so heartless? And Shuofeng, who never did anything wrong in his life, was taken from us just like that. If they think life is so cheap, they can''t me me for showing no mercy today!¡±

    Upon hearing those words, tears silently fell from Mu Lingyi''s eyes. She seemed to have conveniently forgotten about Ye Xingchen''s grim wedding gift, the arranged life-or-death duel, and how her father conspiring with demons had led to her brother''s death.

    "Evil roams unchecked in these times," Mu Tianshi said with a sigh. "The righteous are hard-pressed to stand against it."

    At that moment, the doors of the Grand Temple swung open, and a dense mist rolled in.

    "Ah, our friends from the Demon Continent have arrived." Mu Tianshi quickly rose from his seat to greet the esteemed guests.

    A group of demons, transformed into human forms, swaggered into the Grand Temple of the Immortal Empire. Leading them was a burly man with golden eyes. Though he was well-muscled and brimming with vitality, he donned a loose and elegant white robe, paired with golden-rimmed sses. The lenses of these sses shimmered with runes, clearly an artifact of the human race.

    Li Shishi stood beside him, indicating the importance of this golden eyed man. Of course, he was the Ape Saint! Though he was a figure of reverence, he wasn''t the most eye-catching.

    Beside the Ape Saint, amidst the white fog, walked a woman dressed in a cherry blossom dress. She seemed like a figure straight out of a painting: graceful, with a face full of gentle allure, eyes that seemed to weep and plead, so enchantingly beautiful. This fairy-like delicate beauty captured everyone''s gaze.

    Even Mu Lingyi, a human beauty herself, was momentarily stunned upon seeing the woman and blurted out, "She''s so beautiful..."

    "Ape Saint, Fox Saint, please, have a seat," Mu Tianshi said, keeping his eyes straight, ever the professional.

    The golden-eyed man chuckled softly, "Mu Tianshi, thisdy prefers not to be called Fox Saint."

    Mu Tianshi smiled apologetically, "My mistake, Lady Hua Lian."

    "I''ve troubled you, Dean," she replied in a voice as soft as velvet brushing against one''s ear, sending tingles down their spines. Everyone who heard her felt a pleasant shiver.

    "It''s really no bother," Mu Tianshi replied with a gentle smile. He then nced behind the Ape Saint and noticed more than twenty youths. Each one seemed formidable, with a brooding look and d in Destion Armor, constantly training their physiques. They all looked terrifying.

    Mu Tianshi couldn''t help but admire the efficiency at which the demons produced such formidable talents. <em>They breed ''em strong, don''t they?</em> he inwardly remarked.

    "Ape Saint, who are these individuals?" Mu Tianshi asked.

    "A bunch of unruly youngsters. They''ve heard of a heated sh between top talents from the human race and wanted to learn," the Ape Saint with a chuckle.

    Musingly, Mu Tianshi replied, "You''re being too modest! Every generation in the Demon Continent produces prodigies, something the Immortal Empire can''t quite match."

    The Ape Saint smiled faintly, countering, "And you''re being even more modest. Just the emergence of one Divine Dawn Empress from the human race could overshadow a million of our prodigies. If anyone should be envious, it''s us."

    At that, Mu Tianshi was at a loss for words, especially since he didn''t wish the Divine Dawn Empress to be too strong. His gaze wandered over to thedy with the cherry blossom dress, noticing a silver-haired individual standing behind her. Their delicate features were intriguingly androgynous, and even he found it hard to discern their gender. The Ape Saint brought over twenty progeny, yet she only brought this one person?

    "Lady Hua Lian, may I inquire about this young...dy?" Ye Qingli asked out of curiosity.

    Lady Hua Lian shook her head, murmuring, "He is my disciple, not a youngdy."

    "Not ady?!" Both Ye Qingli and Mu Lingyi eximed in surprise.

    After a brief pause, Ye Qinglimented with a smile, "I''ve heard of your fondness for peace and quiet. This young one must be incredibly talented to have caught your eye."

    Lady Hua Lian looked back at the silver-haired youth, nodding gracefully. "His name is Moon Fairy. Though not of pure bloodline, he... is a Primeval Demon."

    "Primeval Demon?!" The revtion made Ye Qingli and others draw in a sharp breath. Their perception of Moon Fairy shifted immediately.

    "Congrattions!" Mu Tianshi said, paying his respects.

    "While he has potential, his future still depends on personal fortune and fate. His journey is still long," Lady Hua Lian said, admiration clear in her gaze. Here, she was an oddity, seemingly uninterested in the ongoing events or the sh of talents.

    However, even the Ape Saint seemed to be hearing about this Primeval Demon for the first time. He squinted slightly, adjusting his golden spectacles, but remained silent.

    At that moment, Han Jingli from the Ministry of Rites entered the Schr Temple, bringing three young individuals. The Dragon Ranking was a matter of face and prestige among the various factions of the Immortal Empire. While the Mu n and Ye Royal Family at most held two spots in the top ten, the Han n held three, truly a matter of family pride! Strong youth meant a strong faction!

    With these three prodigies, the Han n''s prominence in the Immortal Empire was secured. Born into the Han lineage, all three possessed exceptional poise, humility, and grace. Masters of music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, they were also paragons of poetry, schrship, and etiquette, rightfully called the Three Hans.

    Each was a student of renown from the Grand Temple!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    Heya folks,

    JL here, reporting from the tail end of a flu battlefront. Yep, I was knocked off my feet by the flu and spent the better part of the week horizontal, but I''m back on my feet now, at a solid 90%!

    With winter''s frosty grip tightening, here''s a friendly PSA¡ªbundle up and mask up when you''re out and about! Trust me, the flu is no walk in the park. High fever, chills that no amount ofyering could fend off, and fever dreams that were more nightmare than dream. My flu experience? A solid 0/10, would not rmend.

    And the worst part? I know exactly who to thank for my unexpected flu vacation. Picture this. A week ago, I''m on my way to the supermarket, innocently passing a group of chatty seniors. There''s this one guy in the middle of a coughing marathon, just letting it rip without so much as an elbow in sight.

    Unluckily for me, the group of seniors just happened to separate as I was walking by, and that old man was walking in my direction. So, every few seconds, I''d hear a <strong>"COUGH COUGH COUGH" </strong>behind me. My man seemed intent on sharing whatever misery was ailing him with the rest of the world.

    So, I''m immediately on edge. I sped up, ducked and weaved through several street corners, thinking I''d given him the slip. But as fate would have it, just as I browsing through the meat aisle in the supermarket, I hear a familiar <strong>"COUGH COUGH COUGH" </strong>echo behind me.

    If this were a zombie apocalypse and he was patient zero, I''d be the first to go. But hey, it was just the flu (Thankfully???). And you know what my biggest regret was that day? <strong>NOT WEARING A FREAKING MASK! </strong>So, let my suffering be a cautionary tale to you guys. Be careful and mask up, when you go outside!

    Also, I''ve got a lot of catching up to do while I work on your Christmas present. (???)? ??????

    JL, over and out (and still not 100% zombie, yet...)

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 155: Magic Treasures Out, Attack Together!

    Chapter 155: Magic Treasures Out, Attack Together!

    Outside, the Star Schr tform buzzed with excitement. Over ten thousand officials, elites, and descendants of the Immortal Empire gathered, sitting in clusters and murmuring among themselves, their whispers reminiscent of swarms of flies.

    Within the crowd, the Supreme Marshal, Zhao Xuanjian, and Qi Lan found their seats, making themselvesfortable. They hadn''t nned on going to the Schr Temple, and neither had Mu Tianshi shown any interest in inviting them. Both parties were unapologetically brazen.

    Standing beside Yun Xiao was a youngdy in a short white dress. Her petite frame radiated celestial beauty, and her porcin skin seemed to glow from within, outshining anyone else in its pristine whiteness.

    After a long silence, Yun Xiao suddenly asked, "With the War of Immortals approaching, why are you so keen on topping the Dragon Ranking first, fighting within our ranks and revealing our cards to outsiders?" Her move wasn''t part of anyone''s n. It favored the demons, not humans.

    "Being at the top of the Dragon Ranking means I can be a seeded participant in the War of Immortals. I can avoid the group battle and directly im an arena in theter stages to ept challenges from all sides," Chen Xi exined.

    "So, only the demons would challenge you, I presume?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Correct." Chen Xi replied coolly. "This way, when I begin to y, I can do it more efficiently."

    "And if you diminish the strength of the human race today, will it matter?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    "Not at all. The very essence of the War of Immortals is to determine humanity''s top Immortal. Who cares about the second best? As long as I end up on top, the journey there is inconsequential." Chen Xi nced at him.

    Yun Xiao nodded and then looked at the Schr Temple, mulling over some intel he had received from his body double. "The issue is, aren''t there too many demons participating?"

    "Yes! Almost all of the prodigies from the Demon Continent are here in the Heavenly Realm." Chen Xi''s eyes turned frosty. "There are 108 Demon Saints in the Demon Continent. Each one, like the Ape Saint, has dozens of descendants. Their inherited bloodlines guarantee a sess rate that far surpasses us humans. In this War of Immortals, over five thousand demon prodigies have reached the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm!"

    "Over five thousand?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow. "The allure of the Divine Dawn Empress is something else."

    "Yes. She represents the pride of the human race; who wouldn''t want to conquer that?" Chen Xi smirked, her lips curling into a light, yfulugh.

    "I''ve heard that other Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent will also send their qualified cultivators over?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Their intentions are no different from the demons," Chen Xi replied with a faint frown.

    "You''ve got quite thepetition then," Yun Xiao paused. "Plus, within our Immortal Empire''s 99 territories, aren''t there some exceptional individuals who also want the title of humanity''s top Immortal?"

    Like that Stray Dog fellow, he was incredibly strong! The Martial Cultivators of the Martial Realm were a peculiar lot. Just like the demons, they practiced the art of forging the physique.

    "To reach the peak, one must trample over every obstacle in the path. No men, spirits, or demons will ever deter my unwavering resolve!" As Chen Xi uttered these words, her eyes swirled with a tempest of lightning and fire. The inherent disdain and dominance in her very bones, impossible to hide.

    "Remarkable!" Yun Xiao gave her a thumbs-up.

    "It''s alright," Chen Xi said modestly.

    "So remarkable it makes me wonder how the same person could only whine and moan on that divine vesselst night." Yun Xiao teased with a chuckle.

    "You¡­! Impudent! You dare mock me!" Clearly, a nerve had been struck. As she recalled the incident, her face flushed with embarrassment, and she jabbed Yun Xiao''s waist with a jolt of electricity.

    Reeling from the sudden pain, Yun Xiao shot her a look. "Just you wait. Next time, I''ll make sure it''s a memory you''ll never forget in a lifetime!"

    "Who''s scared of who?" Chen Xi retorted with a coldugh.

    "All I hear is talk.."

    "Hmph!" Chen Xi turned around.

    Seeing Chen Xi gritting her teeth like that, Yun Xiao mused to himself. In the end, the title of Divine Dawn Empress was only a front. At heart, she was still the fifteen-year-old girl from the Chen Heavenly Mansion. Surely, she couldn''t be that mature. But, true to her nature, she was a force to be reckoned with¡ªdecisive and bold, the type to act without hesitation, with zero tolerance for nonsense.

    The innumerable descendants of the 108 Demon Saints of the Demon Continents, the genius cultivators from the other major Immortal Empires, and even the unique individuals from their own realms, all aimed to top the War of Immortals. Yet, before that, she still challenged the Dragon Ranking. What did she aim to do?

    The answer was straightforward. To venture out, first eliminate the traitors within. To attack outsiders, ensure stability within. The descendants of Ye, Mu, and Han might seem likerades of the Immortal Empire, allies in battle, but they would surely stab her in the back when it mattered most.

    "She ns to take down her own people first. Then, in the War of Immortals, she''ll ascend alone, defeating all formidable opponents."

    The spousal selection of the Divine Dawn Empress was the perfect bait. Enemies abounded in the heavens, but one woman was enough!

    "Damn, brother!" Blue Star muttered, "Every person and demon in the world wants to snatch your bride."

    "At least we have his Senior Sister Zhao as backup. If one is taken, we still have another." Red Moon sighed in relief.

    "Not just that! His body double still has that lonely master waiting for him," Blue Star snickered.

    "That''s a win then!" Red Moon''s eyes gleamed.

    "The War of Immortals is upon us, and I''m still at the Establishment Sovereign Dragon Realm! These 5,000 demons from the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm have set their sights on me. I can''t fend off even one. And you''re here cracking jokes? Where''s your conscience? Where''s the Heavenly Dao Sariras?" Yun Xiao eximed, frustration evident. Could he let Chen Xi bear all this pressure alone? Clearly not.

    "Rush what?" Blue Star snapped, "Tonight, we''ll open your Immortal Meridians."

    "That sounds better."

    After reiming the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, all Yun Xiao needed was to unlock the Immortal Meridian Realm. Then, the next five minor stages would be a piece of cake. He just had to wait for the Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    "181yers of Sword Aura! Hundreds of daoist spells! And Humanity''s Supreme Sword on the Sword Dao Monument..." Yun Xiao murmured. The path to greatnessy just ahead. Such was the unmatched Creator Immortal!

    "Today, in this prelude to the War of Immortals, let''s see the caliber of these top-tier talents from both the Immortal Empire and the Demon Continent." Yun Xiao mused. He could obliterate Mu Shuofeng in an instant with his Gxy grade daoist spell. Yet, facing the top ten of the Dragon Ranking, who were at least at the Perfect Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, his magic power seemed a tad insufficient.

    The most exquisite daoist spells also needed the support of substantial magic power. Although Yun Xiao''s arsenal of spells and Sword Aura were impable, his cultivation was toocking.

    "Seems like everyone''s here," the Supreme Marshal remarked, his eyes lowered as he addressed Chen Xi.

    "Yeah." The young woman, d in a pristine white dress, suddenly stood up. Amidst the gazes of the crowd, she confidently stepped onto the Star Schr tform. At fifteen years old, her aura was immense.

    "Is she about to issue a challenge?"

    "I wonder who she''ll challenge first."

    "Probably Han Zhihua, ranked ninth on the Dragon Ranking. Both Han Zhihua and Mu Lingyi have defeated her before."

    "Actually, hasn''t almost everyone in the top ten of the Dragon Ranking defeated her?"

    "She''s been knocked down so many times, but keeps getting back up."

    "I was surprised to hear that, after her year-long disappearance, she''d reached the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. On the Dragon Ranking, only Ye Shengyin is at that level; the rest are at the Perfect stage."

    "With her audacious acts at the Lesser Temple Hall, and the waves she''s caused, let''s see if her skills match her audacity."

    The Chen n prodigy, defeated by the Dragon Ranking''s top ten a year prior! Among the younger generation, only Yun Xiao had seen her descend from the heavens, lightning streaking across the sky.

    "She''s issued the challenge!".

    Everyone focused on the board. With the challenge issued, a name on the Dragon Ranking began to shine.

    "Uh? She''s challenging the tenth-ranked? Didn''t dare to challenge her fated rival, Han Zhihua, directly?" The crowd chuckled, thinking her all bark and no bite.

    Yet, in the very next moment, the name of Han Zhihua, ranked ninth, also lit up.

    "What''s she ying at? Challenging two at once?"

    The spectators blinked in surprise.

    In the Schr Temple, those who''d been snickering fell silent. But that wasn''t the end. One after another, names on the Dragon Ranking started to light up, from bottom to top. Until the very end, the name at the top of the ranking, Ye Shengyin, shimmered into view. The entire top ten on the Dragon Ranking was highlighted.

    "She''s issued ten challenges all at once!"

    "What on earth is she thinking?"

    People exchanged bemused nces, gazing at the aloof girl in the white dress.

    A silence fell over the surroundings.

    With a tilt of her head towards the Schr Temple, her voice resounded like thunder on a clear day. "I''ll take on all ten of you at once! Come up!"

    "..." Everyone was speechless.

    "If I die, I me no one. Put it in writing!" she added.

    The silence deepened.

    After a prolonged pause, the voice of Mu Tianshi echoed from the Temple Hall. "Supreme Marshal, is this your doing?"

    The man in the white tiger-armor waved his hand dismissively. "Don''t ask me. She already severed our father-daughter rtionship. Ask her." From his tone, the answer was clear. There was no need to ask.

    "Has Chen Xi be too arrogant?"

    "The Three Hans, Mu Lingyi, Ye Shengyin¡­ they''re all esteemed individuals with great cultivation. Would they even ept such a challenge? It''s outright insulting."

    Many heads nodded and whispered in agreement.

    <em>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </em>From the Schr Temple, five figures descended swiftly. Following that, a luminous barrier rose from the stage. A sealing formation was set up in a sh.

    "The challenge has been issued, there''s no turning back now! Begin!" Mu Tianshi said in a cold, indifferent tone.

    Tens of thousands of students from the Grand Temple, along with numerous officials from the Immortal Empire, stared dumbfounded at the five figures within the sealed formation.

    "Five against one?"

    Everyone assumed these prodigies would decline such a humiliating challenge. Did they have no pride? Were they really all ganging up on one girl? With the sealing formation activated and Mu Tianshi''s announcement, it was clear that the matter was settled.

    "Things just got real..."

    Everyone exchanged looks,pletely bbergasted. What a twist! Ye Shengyin, Mu Lingyi, Han Yingshi, Han Wenshu, Han Zhihua... they were all here!

    Before the young woman in the white dress stood a row of Dragon Ranking prodigies! A young man in a golden robe, a breathtakingly beautiful young woman. And the three from the Han n¡ªtwo handsome young men and a striking woman. In their eyes, there was nothing but deadly intent, indifference, and hatred. It was an unmasked will to kill!

    Looking at the five of them, Chen Xi didn''t waver. She tilted her chin slightly and inquired, "Why only five? Where are the other five?"

    From the Schr Temple above, five voices quickly echoed down.

    "I, Chen Yi, forfeit."

    "I forfeit as well."

    "I''m conceding too."

    ¡­

    In total, five people forfeited! This meant that Chen Xi had effectively defeated them. Clearly, these five didn''t harbor significant grudges against Chen Xi. They suspected her unpredictable behavior hinted at some trap. Even if it meant admitting defeat, they dared not engage.

    As for Ye Shengyin and the others, forfeiting was never an option. With the deaths of Ye Xingchen and Mu Shuofeng, the animosity between the two sides already reached the skies. And now, with the Chen n pressing into the Grand Temple, effectively stepping on their faces in provocation, if they forfeited, it would be like handing Chen Xi the top spot on the Dragon Ranking on a silver tter.

    If Chen Xi was bluffing, it would be a grand joke.

    "Chen Xi, do you really think ying the paper tiger can scare everyone?" Han Zhihua, with her delicate and coquettish face, looked disdainfully at her once-defeated opponent.

    "She only imed to be in the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. Has anyone actually seen her in action? After all, the Chen n itself spread that rumor. A year ago, she was barely ranked thirtieth on the Dragon Ranking," Han Wenshu remarked dismissively.

    "So?" Han Yingshi turned to Ye Shengyin. The implication was clear¡ªlet their little sister, Han Zhihua, handle it alone. Ganging up would be just too disgraceful!

    Ye Shengyin locked eyes with Chen Xi, and suddenly bellowed, "Draw your magic treasures and attack together!"

 Chapter 156: Ascending to a Saint, Blood Splattering Everywhere!,

    Chapter 156: Ascending to a Saint, Blood Sttering Everywhere!,

    Attack together! The three prodigies of the Han n felt it beneath their dignity. But, it was themand of Ye Shengyin! From a young age, they had looked up to this former crown prince of the Immortal Empire, and would undoubtedly heed his every order.

    "Yes!" With the addition of Mu Lingyi, the first, third, fifth, seventh, and ninth on the Dragon Ranking were all present. All five acted without a hint of hesitation. Their Dantians pulsed with magic power, coursing through their meridians, enveloping them in a radiant shield of power!

    Already impressive in demeanor, their rising power now made them appear even more celestial, drawing soft gasps from thousands of Grand Temple students!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>One by one, magical treasures were conjured from their hands, sending shockwaves throughout the assembly, drawing gasps of awe.

    "Water Lily Bell!"

    "And the Wind Forest Pen, Earth Catastrophe Book, and the Mystic Azure Scroll!" In Mu Lingyi¡¯s hand, she clutched a bell shaped like a white lily. Han Yingshi wielded the Wind Forest Pen, his brushstrokes as grand as a legendary schr. Han Wenshu casually tossed the Earth Catastrophe Book onto the Star Schr tform, summoning the power of the earth. And Han Zhihua unveiled the Mystic Azure Scroll..

    This scroll, depicting the mountains andnds in great detail and gravitas, was strikingly simr to the one Yun Xiao had seen before. All these were Neb grade magic treasures, worth several hundred million Spirit Stones!!

    The Grand Temple disciples had seen these magic treasures before, so their surprise was muted. But what truly sent ripples through the crowd was the golden, dragon-shaped seal in Ye Shengyin''s hand!

    The dragon-shaped seal levitated, expanding several-fold in size, transforming into a golden mountain adorned with intricate glyphs. An echoing dragon¡¯s roar emanated from it, its might instantaneously suppressing the whole venue.

    "Imperial Seal!" A chorus of awed whispers rippled through the Star Schr tform.

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    This was a Gxy grade artifact and once a symbol of the Ye Royal Family¡¯s authority. Had it not been for the current Divine Dawn Empress¡¯s reluctance to use it, it would no longer belong to the Ye Royal Family.

    Most importantly, this emblem of power, known throughout the Heavenly Realm for its ancient lineage, had previously been the exclusive treasure of the Azure Sky Emperor. Now, it had appeared in the hands of the younger generation for perhaps the very first time.

    With the unveiling of the Imperial Seal, Ye Shengyin''s aura surged, resembling a young emperor of the Immortal Empire, overshadowing all the lesser beings present.

    "Chen Xi has overreached. This is bad!" In a heart-stopping moment, all eyes turned anxiously toward the girl in the white dress at the eye of the storm.

    "Attack!" With a single, coldmand from Ye Shengyin, the Imperial Seal soared through the air, intent on crushing Chen Xi.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Simultaneously, from different directions, the magic treasures of Mu Lingyi and the Han n''s three prodigies hurtled toward the girl in the white dress.

    Mu Lingyi wielded her Water Lily Bell, its crystalline chimes designed to fracture one''s spirit. Waves of luminous water morphed into countless lily ripples, crashing toward Chen Xi in rhythm with the bell. Elsewhere, the Wind Forest Pen sketched a Rainwood Wind Crane in mid-air. The Earth Catastrophe Book opened like two mighty mountains aiming to crush Chen Xi between them. The vast Mystic Azure Scroll unfurled, winding like a colossal serpent!

    Chen Xi was surrounded, seemingly doomed from the start. The audience erupted in a fresh wave of gasps and murmurs. Many couldn¡¯t bear to watch a beauty so fair face such peril.

    Only Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled with anticipation. Sure enough, facing this deadly onught, the girl in the white dress simply smiled icily. With an effortless grace, she spread her arms, revealing two formidable magic treasures.

    "Holy smokes!" Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes nearly popped out of his sockets at the sight of Chen Xi¡¯s magic treasures. In her delicate left hand, she held a battle-axe wrapped in lightning, while her right grasped a hammer enveloped in mes.

    Both the axe and the hammer were colossal, their handles alone were four feet long and thick. Her petite hands could barely grip them, and their vast heads seemed too weighty and cumbersome for someone of her frame. Such a stark contrast! A dainty maiden with a lightning-infused axe in one hand and a ming hammer in the other left Yun Xiao utterly speechless.

    "Yes!" The Supreme Marshal roared withughter and pped heartily. This was his prot¨¦g¨¦, a chip off the old block. He couldn''t have been prouder.

    The Molten Sun Hammer and the Thunderstrike Axe had made their entrance!

    The moment Chen Xi brandished her two formidable artifacts, it was clear they were on par with the Water Lily Bell but fell short of the Imperial Seal. Yet, in her grasp, they seemed to emanate a raw, unparalleled power.

    Faced with impending doom, Chen Xi remained unfazed, one eye crackling with lightning and the other raing with fire. A soft hum echoed from her red lips as they parted, chanting silently with a cold, fierce glint in her eyes. Thunder roiled around her delicate frame, her magic power dramatically transforming into three ferocious thunder tigers that curled around her head and arms.

    The three tigers roared in unison, manifesting the Chen n''s Thunder Tiger Tribtion Cloak¡ªa Neb grade daoist spell known for its defensive prowess and closebat prowess.

    As the Thunder Tiger Tribtion Cloak formed, the three impending attacks¡ªfrom the Wind Forest Pen, the Earth Catastrophe Book, and the Mystic Azure Map¡ªwere met by her three thunderous tigers. With a fierce crunch and a subsequent electric sizzle, the trio of magic treasures from the Han prodigies were sted away by the storm of electricity.

    With an icy lift of her head, Chen Xi locked eyes with the oing Water Lily Bell from Mu Lingyi. Emitting a resonant hum, she exhaled, spewing forth a zing dragon of fire which, with unmatched fury, tore through the illusions of the lily and lunged directly at Mu Lingyi, who recoiled in surprise, conjuring a misty veil to retreat.

    That instant, Chen Xi breaking through the four magic treasures with her two daoist spells astounded the audience.

    "Hot damn!!" Yun Xiao muttered, his heart skipping a beat, watching her lips and tongue spit fire like it was the most natural thing in the world.

    But the greatest threat loomed overhead¡ªthe descending Imperial Seal. The mammoth artifact, as heavy as a golden mountain, boomed ominously as it bore down on her. Its weight, equivalent to thousands of pounds, threatened to crush her into pulp.

    With a smirk, Chen Xi deftly spun her hammer and axe, igniting a storm of thunder and fire that she drove directly into the looming Imperial Seal. <em>BOOM! </em>The explosion was deafening. Thunderstorms raged and fires soared as the Imperial Seal was forcefully repelled.

    The spectacle left the tens of thousands of Grand Temple students in absolute awe.

    "Damn that girl is fierce!" countless male students eximed, their hearts racing with excitement. Exposed to delicate, tender-hearted maidens all the time, the sight of someone fierce and assertive was like a breath of fresh air.

    And the jaw-dropper? Chen Xi faced five adversaries, escaped a brush with death, and sent the Imperial Seal flying! The swing of her hammer and the sh of her axe felt as if they''d struck the hearts of thousands.

    The expressions of Ye Shengyin and the other four shifted slightly.

    ¡°She truly reached the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm!¡± Han Yingshi muttered, dumbfounded.

    ¡°In just one year, how did she be this powerful?¡± Han Zhihua shook her head in disbelief, biting her lip, struggling toe to terms with this reality. Beaten by someone they had once vanquished, and so magnificently at that?

    The five furrowed their brows, fixing a deadlier gaze upon Chen Xi.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Chen Xi''s immortal meridians pulsed, clutching her Molten Sun Hammer and Thunderstrike Axe, she unexpectedly leaped into the air.

    ¡°Is this all it takes to ruffle your feathers?¡± To mask the might of the Divine Dawn Empress, Chen Xi had yed the role of a loser, leading these cocky lot to grow arrogant. Now, it was showtime. No more pretenses.

    The girl in the white dress, with a sweeping dominance and a smirk, summoned a surge of energy, forming a protective shield of thunder and fire around her, extending it to her hammer and axe.

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    <em>BOOM! </em>Power erupted, soaring, and at that moment, she appeared supremely divine.

    ¡°This isn¡¯t magic power, this is... sacred power.¡± Tens of thousands in that split second widened their eyes, their faces revealing disbelief for the first time.

    ¡°She¡¯s ascended to the Saint Realm!¡±

    ¡°She''s transcended the tribtion and be a Saint!¡±

    The Star Schr tform was abuzz with murmurs.

    Up there in the Schr Temple, the elders of the Grand Temple, the bigshots from the Immortal Empire, prodigies of the Demon Continent, and their Saints all rose from their seats.

    ¡°Shit shit shit!¡± The expressions of Mu Tianshi, Ye Qingli, and Han Jingli went as pale as ghosts!

    On the dueling stage, Ye Shengyin''s expression was even uglier!

    ¡°What the¡­¡± Mu Lingyi was once again taken aback.

    And the Han n''s three prodigies? They stood there, stiff as logs.

    Breaking through the five stages of the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, Chen Xi achieved the status of Human Saint! What did that mean? It was a realm that belonged to the likes of the Supreme Marshal, Mu Tianshi, and other pinnacle figures from the Immortal Empire and Demon Continent.

    A Saint was a realm that reached the heavens!

    Even Ye Xingchen hadn''t reached this realm!

    This status was the dream of the five of them. For this, Ye Shengyin had been in secluded cultivation for two years, still without a clue!

    "How could a loser like her, who''s always been under our feet, step into the Saint Realm before us?"

    As a Saint, she surpassed Ye Shengyin by one stage and the others by two! And this was aplete domination of realms! In that moment, their confidence shattered, and the tide of the battle turned.

    The girl in the white dress, who had seemed like a helpless rabbit, now roared like a tiger amidst thunder and mes!

    <em>BOOM BOOM! </em>Sacred power raged around Chen Xi. <em>WHOOSH! </em>She spun her Molten Sun Hammer and Thunderstrike Axe, and in a sh, she turned into a streak of lightning, appearing right in front of Han Zhihua!

    A loser? Chen Xi''s cold gaze settled on the proud Han girl. With a fiery swing, she smashed her with the zing Molten Sun Hammer.

    <em>BOOM! </em>It was like a tiger made of mes, instantly destroying the Mystic Azure Scroll.!

    "No!!" Han Zhihua screamed in horror. The hammer smashed into the girl''s terrified face.

    <em>SPLAT! </em>With a fiery strike, Chen Xi reduced the beauty of the Han n to a puddle of gore!

    "Oh god! Oooh, thats¡­ ugh!" Seeing this, Yun Xiao instinctively squeezed his legs together. That was brutal!

    With Han Zhihua''s demise, tens of thousands of Grand Temple students took a step back, and from that moment on, they looked at Chen Xi only with reverence.

    But this was just the beginning!

    "Sister!!" The agonized cries of Han Yingshi and Han Wenshu echoed, their hairs standing on end!

    "What''s all themotion? You two are up next!" Chen Xi swung both her Molten Sun Hammer and Thunderstrike Axe with gusto, turning them into a lightning tiger and a fiery tiger respectively. They charged forth, their paws pounding the ground, steamrolling over the Wind Forest Pen and the Earth Catastrophe Book, and crashing directly into the chests of Han Yingshi and Han Wenshu.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Han Yingshi''s chest caved in, blood erupting as he mmed against the barrier of the sealing formation, akin to a mosquito squashed against a. Blood sttered everywhere.

    Han Wenshu, on the other hand, met the brunt of the Thunderstrike Axe and was cleaved in two, his blood painting the scene.

    From that moment on, the Han n''s three prodigies, their bright future without the protection of their elders, met an end as fragile as swatting three flies.

    The tragic sight nearly scared the wits out of tens of thousands of refined and well-mannered students of the Grand Temple. Deaths had urred on this tform before, but rarely this brutal.

    From within the Schr Temple above, a heart-wrenching scream echoed. Minister Han Jingli, upon witnessing this scene, slumped into his seat, nearly sliding off. His powdered face suddenly etched with fresh wrinkles, his eyes filled with bloodshot veins.

    <em>SPUTTER SPUTTER SPUTTER! </em>He spat out three mouthfuls of dark blood, his legs wobbled, unable to stand.

    Seeing Han Jingli''s heart-wrenching state, no one dared mock him. Everyone knew how much he had invested in nurturing these three prodigies. All for what? The rise of the Han n!

    But, prodigies, before bing strong, were indeed fragile. Those who desired and acted on their greed, who willingly stepped into the battlefield, had to be prepared to face retaliation.

    At that moment, the world seemed to darken for Han Jingli...

    Suddenly, as he fell, two figures abruptly stood up. It was none other than Mu Tianshi and Ye Qingli. Their faces twisted in rage.

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    "Halt! Stop the match!!" The two parents roared with an authority only the elite of the Grand Temple and the Ye Royal Family possessed, charging out like madmen.

    Humorously, for the sake of looking dignified, they''d chosen elevated seats, and given the limited size of the Schr Temple''s door and the crowd rushing out, it would take time to reach the stage. So, the Supreme Marshal and his group, looking to interfere, had a much easier time of it...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 157: Forfeiting Still Means Death!

    Chapter 157: Forfeiting Still Means Death!

    "The Dragon Rank challenge has begun. How can it be stopped now?" The Supreme Marshal chuckled coldly, suddenly soaring into the sky! With a sweeping gesture, a vast of thunderous lightning shot up, sealing the entrance of the Schr Temple. Instantly, the door was sealed shut. Those trying to offer assistance were effectively barred!

    "Hrious! Calling so many for support, all because they''re afraid you''ll go mad if your daughter dies. And yet they posture and pretend to be high and mighty, watching the battle. Isn''t this just asking for trouble?" Zhao Xuanjian couldn''t help butugh. Then, summoning a violet mist, heid the secondyer of sealing magic on the Schr Temple''s door!

    Without hesitation, Qi Lan formed a hand sign, conjuring a barrier as vast as the sea, wrapping the entire Schr Temple!

    The Schr Temple, with its ancient formations and depictions of past sages floating and illuminating the Grand Temple, was the symbol of faith in the Heavenly Realm!

    Of course, people like Mu Tianshi couldn''t just break out of the Schr Temple. Even if they wanted to, it might not be possible. For a moment, this ce of honor became their prison! Their only option was to break the door!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Dozens of daoist spells and magic treasures sted at the threeyers of barriers outside the Schr Temple! They were numerous and powerful, and of course, they could break through, but it would take some time! Especially since the likes of Ape Saint and Lady Hua Lian hadn''t even made their move yet¡­ The question was, would Chen Xi give them that time?

    As soon as Mu Tianshi rose, Chen Xi had set her sights on Mu Lingyi, sending serpents of electricity from the sky to attack her!

    "Chen Xi! Stop it! We forfeit!" Mu Lingyi''s face turned pale as she retreated, deploying her own spells in defense.

    "Forfeit or not, you''re still dead!" Chen Xi''s voice boomed like thunder. Her eyes, aze with fire and lightning, and her face wrapped in electric threads showed no emotion.

    "You are heartlessly cruel! If we die, who will fight for the Immortal Empire? This internal strife will be our downfall!" Ye Shengyin roared, summoning the Imperial Seal to aid him! The seal shed with Chen Xi''s Molten Sun Hammer!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Although Chen Xi managed to send Ye Shengyin flying, several cracks appeared on her Molten Sun Hammer, revealing the formidable strength of the Gxy grade treasure!

    "Internal strife will bring down the Empire? You overestimate yourselves. I alone am enough to fight for the Immortal Empire!" With this brazen deration, the girl in the white dress again sent shockwaves through the crowd.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Though her Molten Sun Hammer had been damaged, Chen Xi didn¡¯t stop. Sheunched herself toward Mu Lingyi.

    In terror, Mu Lingyi summoned her magic power, unleashing a Gxy grade daoist spell, Thousand Birds and Spearfish. Thousands of birds and fish, like a barrage of arrows in the sky, sted toward Chen Xi!

    "You prattle on about the dangers of internal strife, but when I set a trap, you¡¯re all too eager to jump in and kill me. Looks like the moral high ground belongs to your Mu n!" Chen Xiughed coldly. Her Thunderstrike Axe cleaved down, decimating the barrage of birds and fish in its path.

    "You evil little girl! Stop!" Mu Tianshi and Ye Qingli had just emerged from the Schr Temple, their voices shaking with fury.

    "Stop? Over my dead body!" With a swing of her axe, Chen Xi decapitated Mu Lingyi. The beauty''s eyes widened in shock, her life snuffed out in an instant.

    "NO!" In just one day, both their son and daughter had died before their eyes. Both Mu Tianshi and Ye Qingli spat out mouthfuls of blood. The couple wailed in anguish, their grief echoing across the field.

    A hushed silence fell over the audience. The countless students of the Grand Temple had never seen the usually revered and knowledgeable Grand Temple Dean so out of sorts.

    Everyone knew that with Mu Lingyi''s death, the direct bloodline of the Mu n of the Grand Temple had suffered a significant blow. But of course, the battle was not over. Despite their grief and rage, Mu Tianshi and the other teachers rushed down, trying to break the sealing formation and rescue Ye Shengyin.

    However, this sealing formation was designed to keep the Supreme Marshal at bay, so naturally, it was of a high grade.

    Booms echoed as various magic treasures and daoist spells rained down on the barrier. Inside the formation, Chen Xi, abandoning her shattered Molten Sun Hammer and holding only her Thunderstrike Axe, turned her attention to Ye Shengyin.

    Seeing so many people rushing to his aid, Ye Shengyin''s confidence soared. He chanted a set of sybles and made a hand seal.

    <em>Daoist Spell, Profound Heaven Barrier! </em>

    A golden shield enveloped him, shimmering with a protective glow

    Then Ye Shengyin took out a small book and chanted again.

    <em>Daoist Spell, Azure Sky Fire Dragon! </em>

    From the pages emerged a fierce, crimson dragon, entwining itself around Ye Shengyin, eyes filled with fury fixed on Chen Xi.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Catching the Imperial Seal, enveloped by two formidable defensive spells, Ye Shengyin retreated a step, his frosty eyes still locked on Chen Xi. He shouted with fervor, "Your brutality and callousness towards your own race have angered many! Your father''s indulgence makes himplicit in your crimes. Your Chen n''s transgressions today will surely draw the wrath of the Immortal Empire!"

    Chen Xi chuckled coldly, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Do you truly think your Ye Family still holds royal stature? That you''re still the crown prince of the Immortal Empire? You presume to judge the sins of my Chen n?"

    While Chen Xiughed, a storm of rage brewed inside her. Dragging her Thunderstrike Axe, she sent a shower of sparks skittering across the tform. Simultaneously, her other hand formed a seal, releasing a flurry of thunderous serpents from her fingers.

    <em>Daoist Spell, Ultimate Thunder!</em>

    Dark clouds amassed overhead as a massive white lightning bolt crashed down.

    "Shengyin, hold on!" Ye Qingli screamed, seeing the impending doom.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The fearsome bolt struck the Azure Sky Fire Dragon, pulverizing it instantly, and then sent shockwaves through the Profound Heaven Barrier. Crackling and booming echoed. Ye Shengyin''s face paled, and he was forced to his knees.

    "Imperial Seal!" With both hands, Ye Shengyin raised the seal, channeling its immense power to resist the onught.

    Chen Xi sneered. "Fool, just because you were given a shiny toy, you really think you can stop me?" With both hands gripping the Thunderstrike Axe, she brought it down with all her might.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The axe struck the Imperial Seal. Its de exploded instantly. The Neb grade treasure worth several hundred million Spirit Stones was destroyed just like that. However, the immense force from her hands still bore down on the Imperial Seal, causing the thunder to resonate.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The Imperial Seal was crushed beneath her power.

    <em>SNAP SNAP! </em>Both of Ye Shengyin''s legs shattered in an instant. "No!" His face twisted in agony as the bones in both his hands shattered, no longer able to support the weight of the Imperial Seal.

    <em>BAM! </em>Chen Xi''s delicate hand tapped the seal. It descended like a mountain, crashing atop Ye Shengyin''s head.

    "AHHH¡­!" With a heart-wrenching scream, Ye Shengyin was ttened into a bloody pulp.

    <em>THUD! </em>The Imperial Seal, now stained with the blood of the former crown prince of the Immortal Empire, stamped the emblem of the Ye Royal Family onto the Star Schr tform.

    Chen Xi''s white dress danced in the breeze as she gracefully descended. With every eye frozen on her, she gently pped her hands, her soft voice tinged with amusement. "An imperial stamp on the tform, sealed with blood. Seems quite fitting for the lot of you." She giggled.

    The entire Star Schr tform fell silent. You could hear a pin drop. Each student, hair standing on end, sat perfectly still, each more obedient than thest, afraid that this fearsome little girl might nce their way.

    "This... this... this!" Many were trembling, unable to articte their shock. Defeating and ying was one thing. But raw, brutal force and dominance, that truly struck fear into their hearts!

    Outside the barrier, the powerful members of the Ye Royal Family and Mu n, who had metaphorically shot themselves in the foot, watched in horror as Ye Shengyin was crushed to death by his family''s own ancestral seal. Their already taut nerves snapped.

    Mu Tianshi, Ye Qingli, and others felt as if they were struck by lightning, floating like kites with broken strings.

    <em>CRACK! </em>The barrier finally shattered. And in that split second, a bolt of lightning wrapped around Chen Xi, yanking her out. The one who intervened was none other than the Supreme Marshal. He bowed to Mu Tianshi and the others, a stern expression on his face. "The prodigies of your three ns are indeed formidable. My daughter nearly lost, fighting five of them at once."

    "She even lost two Neb grade treasures!" Zhao Xuanjianmented.

    Gazing around, Qi Lan solemnly remarked, "At least no one''s hurt."

    The students of the Grand Temple stared nkly, their lips sealed.

    The Supreme Marshal, with a yful smirk, nudged, "Mu Tianshi, why so quiet? We agreed on a fair duel, right? You folks went ahead and broke the sealing formation, fine. But surely you''re not thinking of refusing to ept the results?"

    The representatives of the Ye Royal Family, Mu n, and Han n grimaced, fists clenched tight.

    "No words, then? How candid!" The Supreme Marshalughed. "Thanks to the Grand Temple. When you have a moment, could you kindly ce my daughter''s name at the top of the Dragon Ranking? We''ll be preparing a celebration. Farewell for now."

    With a heartyugh, the Supreme Marshal grabbed his daughter with one hand and Yun Xiao with the other. In a sh of thunder, they soared skyward, vanishing in the blink of an eye. No one moved to stop them. No one dared to.

    Mu Tianshi had gathered everyone, hoping that after Chen Xi''s defeat, they could restrain a raging Supreme Marshal. But now, it was his Ye Royal Family, Mu n, and Han n whose children were killed in fairbat. Their moral high ground lost, and they weren''t one for confrontations. So, all they could do was re venomously as the Supreme Marshal and his group departed triumphantly.

    "SCRAM!" Mu Tianshi suddenly roared, veins popping on his neck.

    The tens of thousands of Grand Temple students hesitated for a moment. Realizing the gravity of the situation, they scurried away like a swarm of bees, leaving behind only the senior members of the Ye Royal Family, Mu n, and Han n and a few demons who hade to enjoy the show.

    Silence. Absolute stillness. Itsted until Han Jingli copsed to the ground, his cries of sorrow echoing. And boy, they were truly heartrending.

    About fifteen minutester, two figures descended from the heavens,nding on the tform. One of them, an old man, was the Grand Temple Sage. He was Mu Tianshi''s father, the previous dean of the Grand Temple, and one of the most revered figures in the Immortal Empire. He had already received the news. With a heavy heart, the old man knelt, bowing deeply, tears streaming from his eyes.

    The age-old adage came to life. The elderly sending off the young. Except this time, he was sending off more than one. Such sorrow was palpable, almost tangible in its intensity. The onlookers remained silent, their words stuck in their throats, hearts heavy.

    Apanying the old man was a middle-aged man draped in a golden dragon robe. His gaze settled on the stained Imperial Seal, once a symbol of imperial session, now smeared with gore. Despite the gruesome scene, his long beard remained still, and his visage was unchanged.

    "Your Majesty!" Ye Qingli knelt softly before him, tears streaming.

    "Those lost will not return," the golden-robed man whispered.

    "Your Highness!" The old man turned, kneeling before the man, his face a canvas of bloodied tears.

    "We shouldn''t use titles recklessly," the golden-robed man advised.

    "Understood!" The old man dabbed away his tears with a swift brush of his sleeve, then inquired, "Shall the n continue?"

    "Indeed." The man nodded, lifting the Imperial Seal and, with a mere flicker of power, cleared it of the bloody remnants. He tucked it away.

    "What n?" Han Jingli blinked in confusion.

    "I''ll exin," Mu Tianshi rallied, his face a grim mask as he approached Han Jingli. "Our Immortal Empire now faces an immature ruler, with wicked beingsmanding our armies and sowing chaos throughout the Heavenly Realm!"

    "And what do you propose?" Han Jingli realized that with this question, his n would be officially drawn into this tangled web.

    Mu Tianshi''s gaze was resolute. He dered, "If the corrupt cannot be contained, we are duty-bound by the heavens to purge them from the ruler''s side!"

    "To cleanse the ruler''s side!" Han Jingli eximed, casting a resentful nce in the direction of the Supreme Marshal''s departure.

    Meanwhile, Ye Qingli snapped out of her grief, asking, "Brother, weren''t you and the Grand Temple Sage supposed to greet the Peacock? Where is he?"

    The eyes of the golden-robed man turned cold as he responded, "He never showed up."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 158: In a World of Suffering, May We Find Eternal Joy!

    Chapter 158: In a World of Suffering, May We Find Eternal Joy!

    Within the Martial Realm of the Immortal Empire was the nation of Fan. As dusk cloaked the capital city, traders and soldiers who had busied themselves all day began to pack up, eager to return home.

    At home, loving wives had readied delicious meals, and children awaited their fathers'' return, hoping for small gifts. Thousands of lights illuminated the city, casting a peaceful glow that painted a tranquil picture of contentment.

    Life here was simple¡ªwork, family, respect for the elders, and raising children. While humble, there was a quiet beauty in this life ofpanionship, children and grandchildren around one''s knees. It was a life filled with little joys.

    But even such serene lives could burst like delicate bubbles.

    Inside a modest teahouse, a girl in in clothes leaned on the windowsill, watching the bustling crowd below. With a pout, shemented, "Grandpa, I miss Stray Dog!"

    The teahouse owner, a robust old man with snow-white hair but a face flush with vitality, chuckled. "Miss him? Thed''s only been gone a few days!" He popped a few goji berries into his tea.

    "I don''t care. I want to go to the Heavenly Realm too," the girl protested.

    "Nonsense! It''s chaos up there. Easy to get in, not so easy to get out. Our Martial Realm is far more peaceful," the old man advised with heartfelt sincerity.

    "Peaceful?" The girl rolled her bright eyes, scheming about sneaking into the Heavenly Realm. Resting her chin on her hands, she gazed up at the sky.

    "Huh?" She noticed that, at some point, a fan-shaped shadow had appeared overhead, obscuring a third of the sky. The shadow seemed to pulse, as if something within it was growing.

    "What''s that?" The citizens of the capital, winding down from their day, looked up, equally puzzled by the quivering shadow. Strangely, after merely a few nces at it, a profound sadness welled up within them. It felt as if some great tragedy had befallen them, a pain so intense it made eyes tear up involuntarily.

    The city was awash in a sea of anguish, even though nothing had ostensibly transpired. Inside the teahouse, the burly old man, who was just steeping his tea, suddenly paused. A look of horror crossed his face.

    "Peacock!" He roared low, ready to spring into action. But from the fan-shaped shadow overhead, a streak of ck light abruptly shot down.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>With a piercing sound, the ck ray tore through the air.

    <em>THUD! </em>The beam, quick as a sh, darted into the teahouse, striking the old man square in the chest. It pierced his heart and pinned him to the floor. <em>DING DING DING!</em> Several more ck beams followed, nailing the old man''s head, torso, spine, hands, and legs. As they shimmered, their true form became apparent: they were ck feathers!

    "Monster..." With eyes wide in shock and filled with rage and sorrow, the old man stared at the shadow in the sky. With every ounce of his strength, he struggled, ck blood pouring from his wounds.

    <em>HUM! </em>Suddenly, the ck feathers ignited, and in a blink, the old man was engulfed. mes roared, and in moments, the entire teahouse was aze, a fire that threatened to consume the sky.

    "Run..." With immense effort, the old man cried out onest time to the girl in in clothes. Blood-tinged tears of defiance welled in his eyes. Then, he fell silent forever.

    "Grandpa!" The girl, wide-eyed and utterly horrified, watched the chaos unfold. She copsed to the floor, limp. Her grandfather was gone¡­ Her mind went nk, and after the initial shock, her eyes filled with sheer terror.

    "Monster! Demon..." Panicking, she scrambled to her feet and rolled out of the teahouse, narrowly escaping the engulfing ck mes.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The teahouse was reduced to ash. Trembling from head to toe, the girl numbly looked up at the menacing shadow in the sky. By then, the fan-shaped shadow nketed half the sky, achieving an almost mythical eclipse.

    It was early evening, and yet half of the heavens darkenedpletely. The sky churned with a misty obsidian, akin to a vast ck ocean.

    The girl''s heart ached with profound sorrow. Yet, to her astonishment, townsfolk from every corner of the city emerged from their homes. Each of them, with hands lifted towards the sky, appeared to be embracing the heavens themselves. Tears streamed unchecked down their faces, their pain palpable.

    "In this world of suffering, may we find eternal joy..." Over a million voices whispered in unison. Their eyes, fixed on the sky, seemed to find a singr hope amidst the sea of despair¡ªlike spotting the sun of faith amidst encroaching darkness.

    "No! No!" The girl in in clothes clutched a three-year-old boy beside her. Normally, he could barely string two words together. But now, with his hands raised and tears streaming, hemented, "Only in eternal joy can our souls find release and understand the cosmic way..."

    "What eternal joy? What cosmic way? Lil Fan,e with me!" She cried, pulling his hand.

    Yet, with a strength that seemed inexplicable, the boy wrenched his hand free. His gaze bore into hers, and with a mocking tone, he dered, "Life is fleeting, every being has its destiny, every path has its cosmic rule. I follow the celestial decree in my cultivation. What right have you to obstruct?"

    She felt as if she''d been struck by lightning, copsing and shaking uncontrobly on the ground.

    "Naive girl, look to the heavens," the toddler said with a chilling smile. Lifting her head numbly, she saw the city''s sky nketed entirely by the dark expanse above. With a resonating hum, the city lights were snuffed out, plunging the world into boundless darkness.

    "My¡­ my eyes!" The girl whispered, her gaze still fixed skyward. Suddenly, on this curtain of darkness, a myriad of cold eyes materialized¡ªone after another¡ªuntil ny-nine pairs stared down. They seemed like the eyes of the gods or whirlpools of a crimson sea, hauntingly watching over the city. The sight was eerily unsettling.

    "In this world of suffering, may I find eternal joy," the toddler murmured, and from his eyes emerged a wisp of white mist. It took his form, hands outstretched as if embracing something. Tears streamed down as it began to float upwards into the sky.

    "His soul..." she whispered. As the in-clothed girl murmured those words, the young boy''s body went limp, copsing into her embrace. His eyes, wide with a distant look, stopped fluttering.

    <em>THUD THUD! </em>On the streets of the city, over a million citizens fell lifelessly, as if they''d fallen asleep with their eyes open, not moving an inch. Wisps of white mist, filled with fervent belief, drifted towards the dark sky and, eventually, entered those ny-nine crimson eyes.

    By nightfall, an eerie silence nketed the city, now eerily still and deste.

    "Grandpa, I''m scared..." The in-clothed girl wept, witnessing the unfolding scene. Yet her body automatically stood up and she murmured, "In the sea of human suffering, I seek eternal joy..."

    As she finished, a wisp of white mist emerged from her eyes, floating like a bubble towards the sky. The city beneath her shrank. The looming crimson eye grew closer. Her gaze vacant, she joined a million other souls, plunging into those eyes.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>All she saw was a vivid red. A vast sea of blood stretched before her, each drop forming the vastness. Her soulnded on this sea, tinted red and slowly solidifying into a droplet of blood, bing a tiny part of this vast ocean.

    A million souls, just a mere droplet in the sea. And within these eyes,y ny-nine vast oceans of blood¡­ All was silent. Bodies littered the streets of the city, casting it into perpetual stillness. Only rats scurried about, looking bewildered at the ruins around them.

    After what seemed like an eternity, the dark sky began to clear. In the vast expanse of the night, a ck peacock soared, its long tail shimmering with a cold crimson gleam.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the bustling streets of the Immortal Empire, within the Heavenly Realm, lights twinkled andughter echoed. Before the War of Immortals, the streets shrouded in mystical fog hummed with life, though an eerie chill lurked.

    There were unexpected visitors¡ªsome out in the open, some concealed in shadows. Their cold eyes surveyed pedestrians, storefronts, and wares.

    "My dear Moon." On a lively stretch, a delicate woman stood out. Draped in a cherry blossom gown and with a veil covering her face, her pristine feet touched the cobblestones of the Heavenly Realm, remaining spotless.

    Stopping leisurely outside a quaint shop, she extended her dainty hand, picking up two jade hairpins. ncing towards a silver-haired youth beside her, she inquired with a yful tone, "Which one looks better?"

    "Neither," the young man, Moon Fairy, replied coolly.

    "Oh?" Lady Hua Lian pouted. She quite fancied them.

    "They shine because of you," Moon Fairy said, a light chuckle escaping his lips.

    With a yful smirk, Lady Hua Lian ced the hairpins in Moon Fairy''s hand. "Then, put them on me."

    "Mm." Standing before her, as he ced the pins, their eyes locked.

    "Do they look good?" With the pins in her hair, Lady Hua Lian twirled in front of him, radiant as a blooming flower.

    "They''re the icing on the cake; you''re already breathtaking," Moon Fairyplimented.

    "You sure have a silver tongue," she teased, winking.

    Gazing at the vibrant street, a sigh escaped her lips. "The human world is beautiful. Once, I was a fox, sneaking peeks at this bustling world from a corner..."

    "But today, you have it all," Moon Fairy remarked.

    Lady Hua Lian shook her head softly. As he was about to speak again, she ced a finger on his lips, silencing him. "Let''s stroll a bit more."

    Moon Fairy thought, <em>You''ve had me strolling half the night already! </em>But for his <em>beloved</em>, he''d y the gantpanion. "Of course," he nodded. Bathed in soft light, the pair¡ªtwo ethereal figures¡ªstrolled the streets, a dreamy spectacle to behold.

    Yet, no one dared approach them! Shopkeepers didn''t even dare to charge them because everyone recognized them as demons, walking brazenly in the Heavenly Realm. They were the esteemed guests of the Immortal Empire.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Later that evening, in a high-rise tavern within the Heavenly Realm, in a tastefully appointed room, Lady Hua Lian leaned by the window. Bright lights of the world below filled her gaze.

    "Such are the fireworks of the human world," Lady Hua Lian mused, a touch of mncholy coloring her voice.

    Moon Fairy stood nearby, bathed in the ambient light, his silence enveloping him. "After wandering all night, are you not content?" he asked.

    Sighing softly, Lady Hua Lian replied, "To suddenly possess what one knows can never truly be owned is like leaving an echo to the sorrowful wind."

    "Do you wish for the entire human world?" Moon Fairy''s tone was even.

    "I don''t, but someone does. Someone desires its destruction..." Lady Hua Lian murmured sorrowfully.

    "Who?" Fangs peeked out from Moon Fairy''s lips, suggesting danger.

    Lady Hua Lian shook her head, signaling him to refrain from further inquiries. Suddenly, a chill raced down her spine. Startled, she turned.

    In the shadowy corner of the room stood a towering figure.

    "Eternal Joy!" Lady Hua Lian trembled, her radiant face paling, and she slowly knelt before the shadow.

    The shadow took a step forward. It belonged to a middle-aged man with pale skin and raven-ck hair¡ªhauntingly handsome, his ruby-red eyes shimmering eerily in the dark. He took a seat by the window, his chilling gaze scanning the bustling world below. Deep within those eyes seemed to echo the cries of countless souls.

    Throughout, Moon Fairy remained motionless, while Hua Lian knelt even lower.

    "My dear Lian¡­" The man gently tapped the table and whispered, "Pour the tea."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 159: Slaying Demons in the Night!

    Chapter 159: ying Demons in the Night!

    Within the Dawn Pavilion of the Chen Heavenly Mansion, Yun Xiao had retreated into the guesthouse.

    "You didn''t bow and he still spared you?" Blue Star asked anxiously.

    "Yup, he didn''t do a thing." Yun Xiao replied with an icy stare. "He simply sipped his tea and gazed at thendscape outside."

    "That Peacock''s got some nerve, huh?" Blue Star quipped with a smirk.

    "He''s really strong," Yun Xiao admitted. His body double Moon Fairy had been immobilized, unable to lift even a finger.

    "With 108 Demon Saints, the Demon Continent really does have a lot of strong demons, It''s overwhelming!" Yun Xiao could feel the immense pressure bearing down on Chen Xi. She had to stand against these demons, and back in the Immortal Empire, there were treacherous factions like the Ye Royal Family and the Grand Temple waiting to stab her in the back. Thest thing she wanted was enemies on all fronts.

    Suddenly, Blue Star gagged, spewing forth a dark crystal bead.

    "What''s this?" Yun Xiao queried, catching it.

    "A higher quality Heaven Dao Sarira! With your advanced cultivation and the Nine Dragons Dantian, the magic power you require for each advancement is enormous. The previous tiny pills are of no use now," Blue Star exined.

    "Why not keep barfing them out then?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "That''s it, just this one," Blue Star responded.

    "Seriously?" Yun Xiao gripped their neck, "That was over 400 Million Spirit Stones, along with a bunch of Sovereign Dragon Pills and Immortal Meridian Pills! You''ve devoured them all, and this is all you produce? How much did you siphon off on the side? Even a corrupt official wouldn¡¯t be as greedy as you!"

    "Cut the crap!" Blue Star shot back, rolling its eyes. "With so many powerful beings in the Heavenly Realm, many of whom could obliterate you in an instant, shouldn''t I learn from Ye Xingchen''s lesson and provide you with full-fledged protection, boosting your base power? As long as you''re alive, bing awesome is just a matter of time."

    "So, admit it! How much did you skim off the top?" Yun Xiao grumbled, still feeling the pinch.

    "Somewhere between seventy and eighty percent," Blue Star admitted with a mischievous grin.

    "So that''s eighty percent! Damn it!"

    Betting his entire fortune only to end up with a slightly superior Heavenly Dao Sarira? Yun Xiao did still possess a few Wind Fire Tribtion Pills. However, those were specifically for triggering and withstanding wind fire tribtion¡ªa special type of pill and not of much use at the moment.

    "You ought to be grateful," Blue Star scoffed. "This single ck relic is sufficient for you to open your Immortal Meridians."

    "Dammit! I''m broke and feeling vulnerable here!" Yun Xiao paused, gazing at the dark Heavenly Dao Sarira in his hand. "Are you certain just one will do?"

    "Of course. I''ve spewed more nonsense than you''ve ever heard. Trust me," Blue Star chuckled.

    Yun Xiao just sighed. A true hero fears not the sight of poverty. Without further ado, given his current low-ranking status in the Heavenly Realm and the associated pressures, he immediately swallowed the dark Heavenly Dao Sarira. Now, he was going to open his Immortal Meridians!

    "Typically, when one opens their Immortal Meridians, they use the magic power from their Dantian, pushing through their entire body in five stages, unblocking oneyer at each step. The magic power refines the meridians, transforming them into Immortal Meridians. This increases the capacity for magic power, allowing the Dantian and Immortal Meridians to operate in a cycle. This in turn lets them channel even more magic power."

    However, Yun Xiao had seized the Nine Heavens Star Meridians from Ye Xingchen. This unique Seed of Creation was akin to celestial rivers, connected directly to the Nine Dragons Dantian, surging throughout his body. It bypassed the need to craft regr Immortal Meridians, requiring only a push with magic power.

    As the dark Heavenly Dao Sarira dissolved, the primordial essence within began to circte.

    "This pill is potent!" Instantly, Yun Xiao recognized that the upgraded Heavenly Dao Sarira contained powerpressed to its extreme. As it entered his Dantian and transformed into primordial void dragons, its force erupted in a sh, filling up his Dantian before exerting pressure to burst out in all directions.

    "This upgraded Heavenly Dao Sarira is indeed perfect for opening my Immortal Meridians," Yun Xiao mused. With a sudden surge, the power of the dark bead sted into the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, instantly unlocking the early stage of the Immortal Meridian Realm.

    "I''ve entered the Early Immortal Meridian Realm!" Yun Xiao dered, suddenly standing upright. The dense magic power circted seamlessly between his Nine Dragons Dantian and the Nine Heavens Star Meridians.

    "Once the meridians are fully integrated, the speed and lethality of my Flying Sword should soar." After learning the essence of daoist spells, Yun Xiao hade to understand the distinctions between dao and sword techniques. While daoist spells boasted widespread attacks, diverse support, and a myriad of functionalities that often defied belief, it was even more potent when paired with a magic treasure. These top-notch treasures, once forged, could match the hardness of a Sword Soul.

    "However, the property of Sword Soul sword techniques are irreceable for three reasons: its instantaneous killing ability, closebat proficiency, and mobility while riding the sword!"

    Abination of daoist spells and sword techniques would undeniably yield superior results. With this realization, Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled with determination as he looked over in the direction of the Sword Dao Monument. "Now that I''ve got the Elemental Scripture, nextes Humanity''s Supreme Sword!"

    With Chen Xi engrossed in her private chambers cultivating, Yun Xiao, ever so stealthily, boarded his Sovereign Sword and flew off into the dark night, heading towards the Sword Dao Monument.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Under the cover of night, shadowy figures lurked. The endless mist of the Heavenly Realm limited the vision of its cultivators, allowing them to see only a short distance around them. In corners where light couldn''t reach, the darkness thrived.

    A woman in a long dress hurriedly moved through this gloom. Panic etched across her face, her screams and shouts went unheard, as though swallowed by the engulfing silence. A sinister shadow streaked overhead, cker than the night itself.

    "Help me...!" The woman''s cry barely escaped her lips when the shadow pounced. Its sharp talons gripped her shoulder des, and its furry wings enveloped her face, obscuring her vision and silencing her screams. A grotesque, dark bat stood before her.

    "Quiet now," it hissed with an unsettling, almost human grin. Dragging the bloodied woman, it retreated into the alley''s embracing shadows.

    The woman iled desperately, her fingers scraping bloody trails on the ground, yet not a sound passed her lips. Despair and agony washed over her.

    "There, there, my dear." The bat chuckled, baring its pointed fangs, ready to sink them into her pristine neck.

    "Hel..." The woman''s legs trembled.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Suddenly, a crimson sword emerged from the shadows, piercing straight through the bat''s head. Stunned, its gleam dulled. The bat''s lifeless body was swiftly removed from atop the woman.

    Gulping fresh air, her face pale and tear-streaked, the woman looked up, searching for her savior amidst the darkness. It took a moment for her to realize that she had been saved. When she turned back, the darkness behind her revealed nothing.

    "Wretched demons running wild! People can hardly make a living!" The woman cried bitterly, mbering to her feet and stumbling her way home.

    Several streets over, a slender figure d in ck, with a crimson sword in hand, pierced a bat''s corpse. She dug the de into its spine and absorbed its demon essence. Once done, she employed the Soul Ignition Art, turning the demon into a Blood Crystal and storing it in a Pouch of Holding.

    In the night, the mysterious woman, draped in tight-fitting ck clothes, moved gracefully, leaving neither a shadow nor trace. Her crimson sword left only death, with no blood to mark its path.

    Having stored away the Blood Crystal, an old, hunched figure appeared at the corner of the street. The woman approached him, whispering, "Sword Saint."

    "You Yue, how many have you dealt with?" The elderly figure, eyes reflecting a hint of red in the pitch-ck night, asked with a raspy voice.

    "1,003," You Yue replied. She hesitated for a moment, then asked, "And you, Sword Saint?"

    The old man''s eyes shed with a tinge of sadness, "Been at it all day. A little over 13,000."

    "That many?" You Yue paused, admiration evident in her eyes. "Truly worthy of a Sword Saint."

    The old man shook his head with a sigh. "It''s no honor. It only signifies that with the opening of the Heavenly Realm today, at least several million of these demons from the Demonic Continent have infiltrated this ce."

    "What is the Divine Dawn Empress nning?" You Yue knew that all these events were triggered by that unparalleled young girl.

    "We shouldn''t doubt her," the old man replied, looking down. "She''s only been in power for a few years. The state of humanity isn''t her doing... At the very least, she wants to change it. Just for that intent alone, ever since ancient times, who among those in power, like Ye Muhao, dared to confront the Demon Continent? To achieve greatness, pain is inevitable. In this world, is there ever a perfect solution? So, the only thing we can do is support her. In these forsaken, dark corners, we can at least alleviate some of the world''s pain."

    "Indeed." You Yue nodded.

    Together, they gazed upon the Heavenly Realm below, a world shrouded in darkness where spectral figures roamed freely.

    The old man gritted his teeth, fire burning in his eyes. "This so-called peace treaty? It''s nothing but the legal means of the mighty to oppress the weak. And if you dare defy it? Theybel you a warmonger, history''s greatest viin!" There was a deep resentment in the old man''s heart.

    "Ever since the ancient Sword Realm was obliterated, generation after generation has hidden behind this peace treaty, like frightened turtles. Little do they realize that our world has been riddled with scars and wounds. Yet, in the Heavenly Realm, prosperity reigns, where they dance with the demons as if brothers. It''s nothing short of mockery!" You Yue murmured.

    Such urrences weren''t just limited to the Sword Realm; they were rampant everywhere in the Divine Continent. The Heavenly Realm was the epitome of it all.

    "The people are suffering!" the old manmented, bowing his head.

    "But there''s hope in Divine Dawn... She will change all this," You Yue said, hope shimmering in her eyes.

    "Ah, not just her. There''s also that young man. Today, in the Grand Temple, he mastered the Elemental Scripture in mere moments. Have you heard?" the old man asked.

    "I have." You Yue nodded.

    "Shielded by the Supreme Marshal of the Chen Heavenly Mansion, thed''s undoubtedly faring better than us. I just hope the Marshal has the mettle to protect him," the old man remarked.

    "Yun Xiao, he''s a good boy." You Yue concurred with a nod.

    At this point, their eyes met.

    "Let''s press on." With that, the old man drifted into the darkness, leaving a trail of sword energy that danced devilishly behind him.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The fog was thick and ck as ink.

    "Damn! There are demons everywhere!" As Yun Xiao fought his way through, his Sword Aura increased by three wholeyers. Now it was at 184yers. One should know that for him, enhancing his Sword Aura wasn''t an easy task; ordinary demons barely made a dent.

    "I''m in a pretty remote part of the Heavenly Realm. Just how rampant are the demons in these parts?" No wonder, when he had first arrived in the Heavenly Realm, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army was gearing up for a fight. Were these really esteemed guests? More like bandits gatecrashing a party!

    "sted demons! If they''re this audacious in the Heavenly Realm, I can''t imagine how bad it is in the lower realms!"

    ces like the thousand mortal nations in the Sword Realm were ygrounds for these demons, where they wreaked havoc and tormented humans. What on earth had the human worlde to?

    "Here in the Heavenly Realm, it''s like the people are blind to the world below," Yun Xiao muttered. From here, the mortal world seemed like a very distant ce. Yet, it was a mere day''s journey aboard a divine vessel. "Is the distance truly vast, or do they simply choose to turn a blind eye?"

    With anger burning in his heart, Yun Xiao reached his destination for the night. Looking up, he saw the towering Sword Dao Monument. A billion sword scars crisscrossed its surface, each one dripping with fresh blood. They sparkled ominously in the night, like stars lost in a sea of darkness.

 Chapter 160: Protection of Three Aunts!

    Chapter 160: Protection of Three Aunts!

    In the Heavenly Realm, on a night steeped in eeriness, a malevolent wind ran rampant. Bathed in the intertwining glow ofnterns and the eerie mist, the Sword Dao Monument, resembling a giant drenched in blood, stood tall and imposing at the gates of the realm. Countless blood-streaked sword scars, silent and eternal, all pointed menacingly towards the Demon Continent.

    After breaking through to the Immortal Meridian Realm, Yun Xiao no longer needed a sword to fly. With the magic power coursing through his Immortal Meridians, he effortlessly hovered in the air.

    With his back to the Demon Continent and facing those countless sword scars, the tempest raged above, making his white robe and raven-ck hair dance wildly. His pitch-ck eyes radiated a chilling brilliance as they swept across the crimson scars.

    The nocturnal breeze brushed past his eyes, blood-red veins emerging within them. Memories surged, and a volcanic fury bubbled within him, scalding his very flesh, bones, and innards.

    The sorrow and destion he felt upon his first sight of the Sword Dao Monument now multiplied tenfold. It was as if the monument reached out with a billion hands, dragging him into an ocean of blood. Countless ancient faces appeared before him, silently watching. Despite the countless deaths, their eyes remained open, restless.

    "To master this sword, one must bear the vengeance of a billion ancestors and shoulder the immense resentment of countless fallen generations," Yun Xiao whispered. In the midst of the tempest, he exhaled deeply, a breath tainted with bitterness. A boundless rage had filled his heart, now burning every fiber of his being.

    "Facing formidable foes, willing to battle for the masses, yet they met their end through betrayal, sacrifice, and surrender."

    A timeless grudge that refused to fade! Their anger was so profound they''d forsaken the cycle of reincarnation. They lived on through the Sword Dao Monument. The resentment emanating from it was far more potent than the hatred Yun Xiao felt for his wrongful death. Every drop of blood, every gaze, they were all real and present.

    As the myriad sword scars began to shift and merge, forming sword shadows that danced upon the monument, it heralded the arrival of Humanity''s Supreme Sword. It also signified an unspoken pact between Yun Xiao and the souls bound to those sword scars.

    In the embrace of the night wind, Yun Xiao took another deep breath. "Inheriting the undying will of our predecessors, I wield this sword of life and death, striving for eternal peace in the mortal realm. I am not alone in my quest!" He was human. A mere mortal. Forever unchanged, forever remembered.

    <em>HUM! </em>Sword shadows surged and transformed on the monument, their auramanding, their killing intent vast and boundless.

    "Constetion ying Sword! Composed of seven deadly swords! These are swords of malevolence and ughter, forged by our ancient ancestors during their countless battles against demons and fiends! They are demon-ying swords, swords of extermination!"

    While Azure Spirit and the Sword Heaven''s sword techniques belonged to the same lineage, emphasizing righteousness, Humanity''s Supreme Swordbined unwavering justice with thoughts of ughter and vengeance. This sword truly encapsted the Sword Cultivator''s deadly nature, amplifying its destructive power to the extreme.

    "The best defense is a swift, precise, and ruthless offense! It''s a forward thrust, exterminating foes with an unwavering will to die!" Yun Xiao''s ascent to the Heavenly Realm had been bloody and fierce. His mindset resonated perfectly with the Constetion ying Sword.

    The reason the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators from the Three Great Sword Tombs couldn''t master this sword technique wasn''t just due to theircking Sword Souls, but also because they lived oppressed, unable to wield their swords openly.

    To draw their swords meant death. You couldn''t me them! Walking this deadly path, yet harboring unresolved hatred... they were certainly more desperate than Yun Xiao.

    "Seven swords in total!" Observing, Yun Xiao used his finger as a sword, piercing the night. "Flying Sword, Meteor Shower. Palm Sword, Comet sh. Sovereign Sword, Moon Fleeting¡­"

    The Constetion ying Swordprised two Flying Swords, two Sovereign Swords, and three Palm Swords!

    Indeed, even the Sovereign Swords were swords of ughter! The Sovereign Sword involved transforming one''s Sword Soul into a six-foot-long giant sword, standing atop it and controlling it with the feet rather than hands, a techniquebining both movement and skill. How could it not kill?

    These seven swords wereprehensive, and their destructive power was unmatched.

    Yun Xiao became entirely engrossed in the seven swords. Compared to the daoist spells, these seven swords resonated with his will and suited his interest. He learned with fervent enthusiasm, wildly unrestrained.

    "With the seven swords drenched in blood, driven by vengeance and fueled by anger, they can pierce the heavens and crack the earth!"

    Amidst the chaotic wind, at sixteen, he already looked like a god of swordsmanship. Momentster, with closed eyes, Yun Xiao gripped an azure Flying Sword between his slender fingers and flicked it backward.

    A single Flying Sword radiated ten streaks of light. It seemed as though ten swords were present, a blend of illusion and reality, swirling unpredictably. They swiftly darted forward, slicing through the night sky.

    <em>HUM! </em>In just a heartbeat, nine of the gleaming streaks dissipated, leaving behind only the ultimate sword, which halted between the eyes of a dark, shadowy figure.

    "Of the seven swords of the Constetion ying Sword, old texts mention that Meteor Shower produces seven rays of light, with only one being the genuine killer. Why does your Meteor Shower give birth to ten illusionary swords?" The shadowy figure, dressed in ck, hovered in the air, her voice echoing with bewilderment. As Yun Xiao hadunched his attack, she hadn''t flinched in the slightest.

    Turning amidst the breeze, Yun Xiao spotted a woman dressed in a tight ck outfit. Her long hair was tied back, her face veiled with ck cloth. Stters of demon blood stained her attire, and only her fierce, beastly eyes were visible.

    "Who are you?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Your second aunt, You Yue," the shadowy figure responded.

    Recognition dawned on Yun Xiao. Among the three Tomb Masters of the Three Great Sword Tombs, he had met only his eldest aunt Nangong Xi and his youngest aunt Su Lianlian.

    An ally! Yun Xiao then sheathed his Flying Sword, descending gracefully alongside the mysterious figure. His gaze lingered on You Yue''s alluring form.

    "What are you looking at?" You Yue shot him a mildly threatening nce.

    "You''ve got demon blood on you... Have you been ying demons?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    "Exactly," You Yue admitted, realizing she had perhaps misjudged him.

    Earlier, in broad daylight, when dozens of dark-furred monkey demons caused chaos, their entire group of Sword Cultivators had hesitated to act. Yun Xiao had been somewhat disappointed then. But now, realizing they hunted demons covertly by night, his heart swelled with pride. They were kindred spirits!

    "Is it tough?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "Challenging. Not a single error can be made! Every strike must be lethal, ensuring no living soul, be it man or demon, witnesses our Sword Soul," You Yue solemnly dered. Indeed, it was tough! But that was the life of a Sword Cultivator! Should they ever slip up, they''d be seen as instigators of conflict, even war criminals.

    ncing at the horizon, Yun Xiao''s eyes gleamed with passion. "There''s still time before dawn. I''ll join you in this demon hunt. A perfect chance to hone my swordsmanship."

    "But you haven''t answered me. Why can your Meteor Shower produce ten illusionary swords?" You Yue pressed.

    "Hush," Yun Xiao replied with a sly grin, "Some mysteries are best left unsolved."

    "You cheekyd. You really like to show off, huh?" You Yue rolled her eyes.

    "Showing off is a sign of confidence. That''s the only way I can get a great beauty like you to rely on me," Blue Star said, masterfully imitating Yun Xiao''s tone and pitch. Its impersonation was so lifelike, it even replicated his voice''s timbre.

    You Yue initially thought it was the words of Yun Xiao. She looked at him with surprise, "You''re just sixteen, do you dare even flirt with your aunt?"

    "I dare not only flirt with one, but three," Blue Star snickered yfully. No sooner had it finished speaking than two figures, one white and one pink,nded behind You Yue. The two figures were none other than the veiled Nangong Xi and Su Lianlian.

    "Damn!" Red Moon stole a nce from afar, excitedlymenting, "Six bignterns."

    "Very imposing!!" Blue Star praised,ughing triumphantly.

    Beneath the night sky, Su Lianlian had already heard You Yue''s words. She raised her beautiful brows, took a few steps towards Yun Xiao, and softly teased, "Well, well, did I hear right? You dare to flirt with your second aunt?"

    "He said he''s going to flirt with all three of us," You Yue dered.

    "Oh?" Su Lianlian reached out her jade-like finger, poking his chest, "That petite body of yours, can it withstand that?"

    "Three, I can even take on ten!!" Blue Star, feeling a sharp jab from the poke, shouted indignantly.

    "What kind of creature is this?" Su Lianlian jumped in surprise, and then swiftly plucked the small dark creature from Yun Xiao''s clothing.

    "It''s a pet cat," Yun Xiao informed her.

    "Wow!" Su Lianlian cradled Blue Star in her arms, her eyes immediately lighting up with excitement, "So cute!"

    "Hey!?" Blue Star was immediately on the defensive, baring its teeth angrily, "What nonsense? Let me go! I keep my distance from females!"

    "I don''t!" Red Moon didn''t dare to utter a word, but it thought secretly, squinting its eyes as it observed from the side.

    Su Lianlian, upon hearing this, felt her excitement intensifying. "You''re just too darn cute!" She grabbed Blue Star, and strutted off to show him to You Yue.

    "Serves you right for running your mouth!" Yun Xiao, seeing Blue Star''s pitiful struggle, nearly diedughing. Trying to mimic him, was he?

    "Yun Xiao." Now, only Nangong Xi stood by his side. She was a dignified andposed elder, probably about the same age as Ning Yan.

    "You''ve learned it?" Her gaze was warm with expectation.

    "Yep." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "How many swords?"

    "All of them."

    "..." Nangong Xi raised an eyebrow.

    "All of them?!" Su Lianlian and You Yue were so startled they let go of the little ck creature, who tumbled to the ground. He scrambled and rolled, darting back into Yun Xiao''s embrace in a sh.

    Yun Xiao almost doubled overughing. These two tough guys, so full of bravado, were suddenly as timid as mice in front of thedies! In a jiffy, the threedy Sword Cultivators circled him, eyes wide in disbelief.

    "You''re sure?" Su Lianlian inquired.

    "Positive!" Yun Xiao confirmed, speaking with conviction, "As our esteemed elders are out ying demons in the night with their swords, I wish to join your ranks and hone Humanity''s Supreme Sword with the blood of those demons."

    "Alright!" Nangong Xi immediately agreed. They all wanted to witness the grandeur of the Constetion ying Sword firsthand.

    "Sword Saint has already in 130,000. We can''tg behind. There''s no time to waste. Let''s move!" You Yue dered with urgency.

    "Yun Xiao, think you can keep up?" Su Lianlian batted her eyes, teasing, "If you can''t, aunty can carry you."

    "I can keep up." Yun Xiao quickly nodded.

    "Let''s go!"

    With those words, Nangong Xi''s white silhouette vanished into the darkness. Soon after, one shadow, then a pink light, followed suit.

    "With Third Aunt leading the charge, it''s gonna be a wild ride," Red Moon eximed excitedly.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH!</em> In the dimly lit alleys of the bustling Heavenly Realm markets, Flying Swords darted, crisscrossing for miles. Wherever Yun Xiao''s shadow passed, any lurking demons¡ªwhether they were actively in the middle of harming humans or not¡ªlost their heads.

    And then? Not a bone or corpse of those demons was wasted.

    Even if Yun Xiao himself couldn''t use them, he would collect and refine them into Blood Crystal sword rings, leaving them for other Sword Cultivators.

    It was a wild night of ughter. He moved through a sea of demons, blood never staining his garments. Despite being only at the Immortal Meridian Realm, Yun Xiao matched the killing efficiency of his three aunts, each at the Saint Realm. It was clear the level of his swordsmanship had reached a peak.

    "To say without exaggeration, Yun Xiao''s mastery of the sword can now bepared to that of Sword Saint Sun, who devoted his life to the sword," Nangong Xi remarked, her eyes following the fleeting white silhouette in the darkness.

    "Sadly, Old Man Sun never learned the Constetion ying Sword," Su Lianlian said softly.

    The three exchanged nces.

    "This is, without a doubt, the greatest sword prodigy since ancient times!" Intensity filled You Yue''s eyes.

    Without further words, the three continued to protect Yun Xiao from the left, right, and rear as he slew the demons. Their actions spoke volumes; they would guard this young man until the very end.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 161: Another Seed of Creation!

    Chapter 161: Another Seed of Creation!

    The Heaven Burial Sword Soul shed through the air, and in an instant, the demons vanished as if they had never been. Not even a drop of their wicked blood remained. That night, Yun Xiao had in ten thousand demons. Demons from the Sovereign Physique Realm, Demon Meridian Realm, and even a few in the Early Wind Fire Tribtion Realm.

    This was a feat of defeating opponents a full realm above him!! Though it was a surprise attack, it showcased his unparalleled ability to deliver lethal blows with his sword. His sess was underpinned by his Nine Dragons Dantian and the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, proving the significance of the Seed of Creation!

    In one night of chaotic ughter, Yu Xiao enhanced his Sword Soul to 200yers. While it was still not on par with his three beautiful aunts, among the younger generation, this number was unparalleled!

    Still, Yun Xiao was not satisfied. "This Sword Aura still isn''t good enough! If only I had the bone of a Demon Saint," hemented. In terms of Sword Rings, he was even more unsatisfied. Currently, he possessed only one Demon Meridian Sword Ring, which was almost like having none at all.

    "Seed of Creation!" Blue Star, nestled in his arms, suddenly blurted.

    Sensing something, Yun Xiao immediately looked up, and he saw a pristine white peacock soaring overhead. Its feathers shimmered and shone, radiant like a full moon streaking across the sky, casting down phosphorescent beams of white. With its elegant, long neck and graceful demeanor, the undting light from its tail feathers promised an ethereal beauty when fully fanned. Yet, it was a demon, and not just any demon, but one possessing a Seed of Creation!

    Yun Xiao''s eyes locked onto it immediately.

    "It''s the son of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor!" Nangong Xi appeared beside Yun Xiao, her eyes cold and ruthless.

    "Let''s give chase!" You Yue and Su Lianlian appeared simultaneously. Without a word, Su Lianlian wrapped an arm around Yun Xiao''s waist and sped through the streets of the Heavenly Realm. She was indeed faster than him, moving like a ghostly shadow.

    In the darkness, her eyes were intently fixed on the white peacock above, a deep murderous intent brewing within.

    "Eternal Joy Demon Emperor?" Yun Xiao turned to look at Su Lianlian''s profile.

    "With a reign of terror, he''s an unmatched demon from the Demon Continent¡ªa savage bastard that''s taken countless lives with a mere gaze!" Su Lianlian dered bitterly.

    "That monstrous peacock took the lives of the Sword Saint Sun''s family," You Yue uttered with a chilling voice.

    "To think that the offspring of such a demon could freely roam the Heavenly Realm of the Immortal Empire¡ªit''s truly ironic!" Nangong Xi''s voice was a mix of anger and sorrow.

    Yun Xiao had once glimpsed that ck peacock. He knew of its strength, but hadn''t realized its sheer brutality. No wonder Lady Hua Lian held it in such awe. "Is this the son of that ck peacock?" he wondered.

    A Seed of Creation! With the three women already locking onto the royal offspring, Yun Xiao''s killing intent surged.

    "Eldest Sister, Second Sister, can we strike it down with our Flying Swords now?" Su Lianlian asked, teeth gritted.

    "No! Sending our sword souls airborne will be too conspicuous. We wait for it tond and then see where it heads," Nangong Xi replied in a deep voice.

    They pursued relentlessly.

    "It''s headed towards the wild mountains of the Heavenly Realm. There shouldn''t be many people there," You Yuemented coldly. That was wee news.

    The night wind danced.

    "What sort of Seed of Creation is this?" Yun Xiao asked Blue Star.

    "It''s likely a fleshly talent. It can enhance your body double''s Divine Destion Physique," Blue Star paused. "Your body double doesn''t have any Seed of Creation talents yet. If it can assimte this, its ability to absorb Deste Essence should increase significantly."

    At this point in time, the Heavenly Realm was filled with Deste Essence. Opportunities were everywhere for Yun Xiao. Even if his body double Moon Fairy absorbed it, the Divine Destion Physique was still a part of Yun Xiao, and there was no real difference.

    Before long, both the white peacock in the sky and the pursuers on the ground had left the streets of the Heavenly Realm.

    Dark mountainsy ahead¡ªthe wastnds of the Heavenly Realm.

    No one, barely any demons, and a plethora of mountains and caves¡ªthat''s what the Demon Continent was known for. Those demons who visited the human realm did so to witness its luxuries, so they wouldn''t venture here without reason. And this gave Nangong Xi and her group the opportunity they needed.

    "It''s descending." A shared nce among them told that they had predicted where the white peacock wouldnd. They reached the spot ahead of time, concealing themselves amidst the dense vegetation. The Sword Souls in their hands had already transformed into Flying Swords.

    With a humming sound, the white peacock descended towards a hill overgrown with weeds. Just as Su Lianlian was about to strike, Nangong Xi suddenly held her back, whispering, "Wait! There''s someone else here."

    Yun Xiao caught sight of it too. Atop the wings of the white peacock, there were two figures seated! He''d been below the peacock this whole time, so he hadn''t noticed.

    "Two young girls?" Yun Xiao quickly made out their features. They were twins, with violet hair, looking even younger than Chen Xi. Both were strikingly beautiful, full of promise and grace, looking as fresh as morning dew.

    "Did he kidnap them to this deste ce?" As Yun Xiao''s intent to kill grew stronger, the white peacock, along with the two violet-haired girls, descended to the ground. In the process, the peacock transformed into a white-haired young man. Tall, with a face like fine porcin, a graceful demeanor, and an elegant presence¡ªin terms of appearance, he ranked just below Yun Xiao in the Heavenly Realm!

    The catch was, the two violet-haired girls clung to his arms, heads affectionately resting on his shoulders, looking utterly smitten.

    "Brother Kong Ming, it''s so dark here. I''m scared," the girl on the left said, her face blushing.

    "I''m not scared at all. With big brother around, there''s nothing to fear," the girl on the right yfully pouted.

    Their banter even had a hint of sibling rivalry. They were very much human, not demons.

    "Who are they?" Yun Xiao muttered in confusion. Being affectionate with a demon?

    "These girls aren''t of lowly status," You Yue deduced from their attire and demeanor.

    "I''ve figured out who they are." Nangong Xi remarked with a slight smirk. "They''re the fifth and sixth princesses of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, twins."

    Yun Xiao eximed, "Human princesses? Getting all cozy with the child of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor?"

    The temperatures in the gazes of both You Yue and Su Lianlian dropped a notch.

    "The Violet Sky Immortal Empire?" Yun Xiao pondered. He recognized it as one of the Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent. They''d dispatched numerous gifted cultivators to participate in the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm. To marry the Divine Dawn Empress was a tantalizing proposition for them. An Immortal Empire''s princess held a rank akin to what Ye Shengyin once had. Quite lofty indeed.

    After the Divine Dawn Empress took the throne, there were no others in the Heavenly Realm who held such a title.

    "What''s our empire called? Howe I''ve never heard it mentioned?" Yun Xiao asked, eyeing the trio of the demon and the two girls.

    "It''s now called the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire. It used to be the Azure Leaf Immortal Empire. It changed names just a few years ago, so it''s a touchy subject. Most avoid mentioning it to steer clear of the Ye Royal Family''s wrath. After all, they were the ones forced to abdicate by the Primordial Bell. Their power still remains substantial," Nangong Xi said, her eyes fixed on the two princesses. She whispered, "The old Azure Leaf and the Violet Sky Immortal Empires were once allies, united under the Azure-Violet Pact. Even now, the Ye Royal Family and the Violet Sky''s royal line share a robust rtionship."

    "Got it," Yun Xiao nodded. "The Divine Dawn Empire sounds way more imposing than Azure Leaf."

    In his mind, he sorted them simply¡ªenemies. It was highly likely that the prodigious cultivators of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire would fall under that category as well.

    "What are they up to?" Su Lianlian''s voice took on a peculiar tone.

    "Hm?" Yun Xiao turned his gaze back to the trio, only to blurt out, "What the hell!"

    That so-called Kong Ming heir was now teasing the two princesses, their clothing bing somewhat... looser.

    "No wonder they took all this trouble toe to this backwoods ce!" Su Lianlian eximed, eyes wide in disbelief.

    "Wait... what?" Yun Xiao stammered, "Humans and demons can... be intimate?"

    "Why not, when they take human form?" You Yue countered.

    Yun Xiao merely blinked, taking in the sight of the two princesses who looked like they were both resisting yet enjoying the attention. It was clear they weren''t under duress, but rather, quite taken by the situation.

    "Let''s just... get rid of them. This is ufortable to watch," Su Lianlian muttered, looking away.

    "We can''t." Nangong Xi suddenly spoke up.

    "Why not?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    Nangong Xi pointed towards a shadowy area behind the trio. "Those princesses are always guarded by the Sword Saint Yu Qian in the Violet Emperor''s service. He must be there."

    "Him?" Bringing up this individual, the three could only shake their heads. Never mind whether they could handle the Sword Saint. If they acted now and were discovered, it would cause majorplications.

    "Does the Violet Sky Immortal Empire have Sword Cultivators?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes, but not many. And they''re from a different lineage than ours. Serving the Violet Emperor, they have to spend fortunes buying the remains of ancient demons from the Demon Continent, and their Sword Souls are prohibited from having Sword Rings," Yuoyue remarked icily.

    The Three Great Sword Tombs, in fact, originated from the Sword Realm of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire.

    "Different paths mean different futures," Yun Xiao mused, nodding.

    ncing back, the scene had turned even more, let''s say, vibrant. Yun Xiao and hispanions, from their distant vantage point, couldn''t help but cringe.

    "Let''s go," he finally said, frustrated. They''d been tailing them for what felt like ages, only toe up empty-handed.

    "The demon prince and the Violet Sky Immortal Empire will both be at the War of Immortals... I''ll be waiting," Yun Xiao muttered, a hint of determination in his voice.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the marketce, Yun Xiao indulged in another brief spree of destruction. As dawn threatened, he reluctantly bid farewell to the three women.

    "Shall we meet tomorrow night?" Su Lianlian asked with a mischievous smile.

    "Absolutely," Yun Xiao replied, his spirits lifted by the exhrating night. The only downside? He didn¡¯t manage to obtain that elusive Seed of Creation. "Interestingly enough, after that son of his returned, the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor introduced him to my body double."

    Moon Fairy was even bonding with his son. The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor held Moon Fairy in high esteem. Both him and his son, much like Moon Fairy, were considered Primeval Demons, extraordinarily attuned to Deste Essence. But Moon Fairy was no ordinary Primeval Demon.

    "Peacock''s son invited my body double to tour the Spirit Treasure Pce after dawn¡­" Yun Xiao mused, contemting a fresh strategy.

    During their farewell, Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian broached the topic of Yun Xiao''s Sword Ring.

    Yun Xiao inquired, "Ladies, where might I find a top-notch Sword Ring in the Heavenly Realm these days?"

    "What do you consider top-notch?" Su Lianlian teased.

    "A Demon Saint''s?" Yun Xiao ventured hesitantly.

    Su Lianlianughed gently. "Who in the Heavenly Realm would dare to use a Demon Saint''s corpse as a Sword Ring? A death wish?"

    "Then?"

    "Even our Sword Tomb doesn''t possess such a Sword Ring," You Yue stated solemnly. Too risky! Even if they had one, they wouldn¡¯t dare unt it.

    "But," Su Lianlian whispered alluringly in Yun Xiao''s ear, "I know a ce where you might find one, if you¡¯re willing to pay the price."

    Yun Xiao took a moment to admire her. Though probably not even thirty, she exuded an elegance that made the two princesses seem like mere children inparison.

    "Where might this magical ce be?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Why, the all-epassing Spirit Treasure Pce!" Su Lianlian dered with a flourish.

    "Really now?" Yun Xiao mused. The very ce the Peacock¡¯s son and Moon Fairy were headed. With a grin full of schemes, he chuckled, "What a coincidence."

 Chapter 162: Youre a Real Fearless One, Arent You?

    Chapter 162: You''re a Real Fearless One, Aren''t You?

    The break of day sent a soft morning glow across the horizon. After bidding farewell to three beautifuldies, Yun Xiao slipped into the immortal mist, heading straight for a resplendent golden tower at the heart of the Heavenly Realm. That tower was none other than the Spirit Treasure Pce.

    Rumor had it that its master had spent a fortune to purchase this prime piece of goldennd from the Immortal Empire. From there, a bustling immortal marketce formed around the Spirit Treasure Pce, making it the most thriving ce in the Heavenly Realm!

    It was a district of dazzling lights and intoxicating delights, countless establishments beckoning mortals and spirits alike. Everyone seemed spellbound.

    "Is this truly a ce for Immortals to cultivate peacefully?" Yun Xiao mused to himself, shaking his head. To him, it bore a striking resemnce to the worldly nations, only the inhabitants here were mightier.

    Not far from the Spirit Treasure Pce stood the most revered site in the Heavenly Realm¡ªthe majestic Divine Dawn Pce! It used to be called the Azure Leaf Pce, formerly the home to the Ye Royal Family. Nobles frequented it, and countless courtdies and eunuchs once bustled about.

    But now, the Divine Dawn Pce had few permanent residents. All because the Divine Dawn Empress forbade entry! This young empress of the Immortal Empire exuded an air of enigma, making others tread carefully around her.

    Emerging from the shadows, Yun Xiao was about to approach the Spirit Treasure Pce when a slender figure in white suddenly shed before him, blocking his path. He looked up to see a youngdy in a short skirt, her jade-like legs on disy. Her long hair cascaded like a waterfall, and her gaze was icy cold.

    "Where were youst night?" Chen Xi''s figure shifted, and in the blink of an eye, she was right in front of him, an oppressive cold aura enveloping Yun Xiao.

    "I had a drink," Yun Xiao replied calmly.

    "I don''t smell alcohol on you. But I do catch the scent of three women," Chen Xi stared deep into his eyes, a thunderstorm swirling within hers...

    "You managed to sniff out all three scents? What are you, a little dog?" Yun Xiao teased.

    "A tigress, more like," Red Moon muttered under its breath.

    Chen Xi simply shot him a nce, neither angry nor amused. "Last night, a fair share of demons in the Heavenly Realm met their end. I assume you and the three Tomb Masters were behind it?"

    "Yes," Yun Xiao admitted without hesitation.

    Chen Xi stared at him incredulously. "You truly have a death wish, don''t you? The Ye, Mu, and Han ns all want your head, and demons lurk at every corner. Yet here you are, unting yourself without a care in the world." In this realm where the mighty ruled, a mere cultivator at the Immortal Meridian Realm was as fragile as paper.

    "Isn''t that because I have you watching my back?" Yun Xiao replied with a smirk.

    "I don''t have the time to keep tabs on you. I have my own matters," Chen Xi retorted, rolling her eyes at him. "Listen, head back to the Dawn Pavilion. Tomorrow marks the initiation ceremony for the War of Immortals. Don''t mess things up."

    "No." Yun Xiao shook his head firmly.

    "You''re defying me?" Chen Xi''s eyes red with irritation.

    "And who might you be? Should I really heed the words of a mere damsel? Where''s my pride in that?" Yun Xiao shot back.

    Chen Xi was momentarily speechless. She extended a hand, half tempted to drag this <em>brat</em> back by force but thought better of it. "Here," she suddenly handed him a Pouch of Holding.

    With reflexes as swift as lightning, Yun Xiao snatched the pouch.

    Chen Xi gawked at the audacity eximing, "You really have some nerve. At least show some restraint!"

    "Aren''t you the one who hasn''t settled her tab?" Yun Xiao opened the pouch, and a rich aroma of wine wafted out, instantly warming his heart. Inside were hundreds of wine sks! To him, this was more valuable than any rare treasure the realm could offer.

    "What kind of wine is this? It smells amazing," Yun Xiao remarked. To be honest, it smelled even better than the renowned Daughter''s Red. Clearly, it was crafted from some exquisite ingredients.

    "It''s a gift from my father," Chen Xi responded with a hint of a peculiar expression on her face.

    "What''s it called?" Unable to resist, Yun Xiao uncorked a bottle and took a hearty swig. His face flushed almost instantly, and a warm heat surged through him, making him feel as if he were burning from the inside. This wine had effects simr to a pill, boosting one''s magic power!

    "It''s brewed by my father, crafted with dozens of mystical herbs. It''ll help elevate your cultivation," Chen Xi murmured, her cheeks tinting a shade pinker.

    "Why does it taste slightly... meaty? What''s the main ingredient?" Yun Xiao took another sip, savoring the lingering taste. He absolutely loved it!

    "Stop asking. It''s annoying," Chen Xi huffed, turning to leave.

    "What''s with the secrecy? If you don''t tell me, it won''t sit right," Yun Xiao quipped, grabbing her arm to press for an answer.

    Losing patience, Chen Xi pped his hand away and gritted out two words, "Tiger''s¡­ rod."

    "Rod¡­?" Yun Xiao''s eyes widened in realization. No wonder it felt so invigorating. "You really dared to give me this? You''re truly bold!" He choked back augh.

    "My father wants a grandson. It''s none of my concern," she retorted. Not wanting to entertain his remarks any further, she vanished from Yun Xiao''s sight with a swift movement.

    "She''s embarrassed," Yun Xiao mused, peeking into the Pouch of Holding again. "Such treasure!" Daughter''s Red was as gentle as flowing water, whereas the Tiger''s Rod Wine was fierce and fiery.

    Both were absolutely splendid!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Divine Dawn Pce, nine shadows knelt beneath the grandeur of the Empress''s hall, each cloaked in a weighty aura of deference.

    With a resonating hum, a figure dressed in a golden-red dragon robe, its hem stretching ten yards behind, took her ce upon the Dragon Throne. Amidst the swirling mists, this silhouette bore a golden dragon crown. Embedded within it were nine dazzling gems, crackling like lightning, exuding an aura that demanded respect without needing to assert it.

    The nine shadows bent even lower. "Long live the Empress, long live, live forever!" Their voices rang out in unity, soaked in reverence.

    "Rise." Her voice, deep andmanding, echoed throughout the vast hall.

    "As youmand." All nine stood, but kept their heads bowed. Each wore a profound ck mask, hiding their faces, their very presence exuding overwhelming power.

    "Number Nine!" the Empress beckoned softly.

    "Your servant is here," the furthest shadow responded, stepping forward.

    "I''ve heard of a Sword Emperor emerging in the Heavenly Realm," the Empress remarked.

    "Yes! He is the son-inw of the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. At sixteen, he showcased astonishing talents at the Grand Temple. Rumor has it that within a mere fifteen minutes, he mastered the Fire God''s Wrath daoist spell of the Elemental Scripture!" The ninth shadow reported.

    "A Sword Emperor is a future pir of the Immortal Empire. Imand you to protect him personally," the Empress decreed.

    The shadow hesitated momentarily, "Your Majesty, although the young man is under the mentorship of the Chen Heavenly Mansion he is, after all, a Sword Cultivator..."

    "Hmm?" With a soft grunt from the Empress, the entire hall seemed to be set aze, with the roar of thunder echoing.

    "Yourmand is my will!" The ninth shadow hastily knelt.

    "I grant you a Thunder Crystal. If you encounter any situation you cannot handle, activate the crystal. I will personally intervene," the Empress dered.

    "Understood!" A subtle shift appeared in the eyes of the nine shadows. It was evident that the divine figure before them held this Sword Emperor youth in high regard. In the next instant, the ninth shadow took his leave, vanishing from the hall.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Ah, an esteemed guest!" The moment Yun Xiao stepped into the glistening tower of the Spirit Treasure Pce, nearly a hundred attendants at the entrance recognized him almost immediately.

    "Young Master Yun, right this way! Upstairs, please!"

    "Someone! Escort Young Master Yun to the VIP area!"

    A striking woman at the entrance shed a practiced and professional smile. Surrounded by a group of lively and captivating youngdies, they escorted Yun Xiao, treating him with the utmost courtesy.

    "They have no clue that his pockets are as empty as a beggar''s," Blue Star cackled.

    "Do you have to point it out?" Yun Xiao chuckled wryly.

    The capital of the Divine Dawn Empire was currently bustling with activity. Everywhere you looked within the Spirit Treasure Pce, there were throngs of people. Humans and demons mingled seamlessly, as though they were kin, creating an exceptionally lively atmosphere.

    Vibrant, and oh-so noisy! The air was filled with shouts and exmations. Those transformed demons resembled country bumpkins entering the city for the first time. Their eyes gleamed with curiosity and excitement, hopping around boisterously. Had there not been strict rules in ce for public areas, and countless powerful Immortals stationed throughout the Spirit Treasure Pce to oversee and maintain order, they would''ve definitely resorted to thievery and vandalism.

    "This one''s great!"

    "No, this one smells better!"

    "Really? They''re charging for this? Are they trying to swindle us honest demons?"

    Though the demons took on human forms, their innate wild tendencies couldn''t be entirely suppressed.

    A dog demon drooled incessantly while a monkey demon hung from the ceiling. For a moment, Yun Xiao felt as though he''d wandered into a zoo.

    "Brother! Have you finally seen the light?" A deep voice came from behind, apanied by a hefty p on Yun Xiao''s shoulder.

    Turning around, Yun Xiao found himself face to face with the violet-eyed youth known as Stray Dog.

    "Dog Bro?" Yun Xiao said with a light smile, "Watch your words. My father-inw asked me toe here and handle some business with Uncle Zhao."

    "Alright, I''ll take you to him!" Stray Dog was a straightforward fellow. He led Yun Xiao upwards, where the VIP areay. The items sold here were of high value, and the number of guests was limited, offering a much-weed peace from the hustle below.

    As Yun Xiao climbed, he nced around and mused, ¡°The Spirit Treasure Pce, which spans all the major Immortal Empires across thends, indeed sells almost everything¡ªexcept for demon bones and Sword Rings.¡± In truth, even demon bones and Sword Rings were usually sold openly; they''d just been a bit discreet recently.

    Soon enough, Stray Dog swung open the door to a plush chamber at the top of the tower, hollering, "Old Zhao, business is here!"

    From within, two startled cries echoed, followed shortly by two beauties who hurried out with flustered faces.

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless. It appeared the old alchemist was still spry for his age.

    Inside, they found Zhao Xuanjian, looking somewhat disheveled with his feet in a wooden tub. "I was just washing my feet," he said, trying to sound nonchnt.

    "Sure, we believe you," Stray Dog responded, nodding with exaggerated sincerity.

    Yun Xiao cut to the chase, greeting the older man with a slight bow, "Uncle Zhao, my father-inw sent me to request a little item from you."

    "Old Chen?" Zhao Xuanjan coughed, stroking his beard, "What would that be? Just name it, and I''ll happily gift it to you."

    "A Blood Crystal Sword Ring," Yun Xiao revealed.

    Zhao Xuanjian sprang to his feet, eyes wide. "Are you sure he sent you to buy that?"

    Yun Xiao chuckled modestly, "Why would I dare misuse the Supreme Marshal''s name, especially since I''ve just married into such prestige?"

    Zhao Xuanjian grudgingly admitted, "Fair point." He leaned in, whispering, "What grade of Blood Crystal Sword Ring do you want?"

    "My Chen Heavenly Mansion is a top-tier family in the Heavenly Realm, right? I need a Sword Ring worthy of my father-inw''s reputation," Yun Xiao dered.

    Zhao Xuanjian''s eyes widened in surprise, "You mean...?"

    "Do you have a Saint Sword Ring''?" Yun Xiao asked. In his possession, he had several Sword Rings containing Wind Fire Tribtion Realm demons. Their embedded magic was impressive, but they were freshly in, their souls still lingering. Disying such a recent kill would be akin to admitting he was the murderer from the previous night.

    Moreover, Yun Xiao had always lived by one rule. If he was to have something, it had to be the best. And why not? He had the means to afford it. A Saint Sword Ring was forged from the flesh and blood of demons in the Saint Demon Realm!

    "A Saint grade Sword Ring?!" Zhao Xuanjian and Stray Dog exchanged wide-eyed nces.

    "I mean, my father-inw is quite audacious," Yun Xiao said with a chuckle. "He just wants to give me a better chance of surviving the uing War of Immortals. Uncle Zhao, rest assured, even if I get this Saint Sword Ring, I''d only use it as ast resort, a trump card when my life is on the line."

    "I see," Zhao Xuanjian finally exhaled, "I must say, your father-inw is rather thoughtful."

    "So?" Yun Xiao looked at him expectantly.

    "I''ll find one for you. Not only are these Saint Sword Rings extremely rare, but no Sword Cultivator dares to use them openly. In this Heavenly Realm, probably only your father-inw knows I still have them in stock. Considering the deep bond I share with him, I can offer you a 5% discount. How does that sound?" Zhao Xuanjian proposed.

    "What¡­???" Yun Xiao''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Didn''t you just say you''d gift me what I wanted? And now it''s a discount? Besides, since you can''t sell it, why not just gift it to me anyway?"

    "Wow. You really have quite the appetite, don''t you?" Zhao Xuanjian responded, taken aback. "Just because it hasn''t sold yet doesn''t mean it won''t. It''s still a raremodity."

    "Bro," Stray Dog chimed in with a heartyugh, "Our Spirit Treasure Pce''s motto is, ''Blood brothers, clear ounts.''"

    "I''ve already had a taste of that in the Sword Realm!" Yun Xiao paused before continuing, "So, just one Sword Ring, right? Uncle Zhao, do you have a Sword Ring from the Peacock Demon n?"

    "Holy smokes, don''t spout nonsense!" Zhao Xuanjian''s face paled. "With the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor around, who would dare to keep a Sword Ring of the Peacock Demon n?"

    "Oh? What about the Blood Crystal Ring of a Fox Demon Saint?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "A Fox Demon Saint? I do have one," Zhao replied. "But the Fox n is skilled in illusions. In terms of destructive demon magic, it''s the weakest one I have. Are you sure you want the Fox n''s?"

    "Yes, I''m sure. I want the Fox n''s."

    "Alright, wait here." Zhao Xuanjian returned after a short while, cradling a ck jade box in his hands.

    When the box was opened, it revealed a menacing Blood Crystal. On its surface was the imprint of a blood-red six-tailed fox. Despite the apparent age of the crystal, its ominous aura was still palpable. The six-tailed fox seemed almost alive, baring its teeth and sneering at Yun Xiao.

    "This Saint Sword Ring has been around for a while. Its power might not rival the newer ones, but it''s leagues above the Wind Fire Tribtion Sword Rings," Zhao Xuanjian cautioned, adding with a hint of awe, "I must say, your father-inw has quite the guts."

    Yun Xiao chuckled, a hint of resignation in his eyes. "I tried to dissuade him, but he insisted Ie." Despite his words, his actions spoke louder. He quickly took the box, sneaking a peek at the price tag. His heart raced.

    "Pay up," Zhao Xuanjian stretched out his hand.

    "My father-inw mentioned we could payter," Yun Xiao replied, feigning seriousness.

    "On credit?" Zhao looked stunned. "The Spirit Treasure Pce doesn''t do credit!"

    "Really? He didn¡¯t mention that rule," Yun Xiao mused, adding, "No worries, he¡¯ll probablye pay personally."

    Stray Dog chimed in with a snort. "Come on, Old Zhao. The Chen n is loaded! Do you really think they''ll haggle over this pocket change? Think bigger."

    "That''s because you don¡¯t know the man! You have no idea how much he''s swindled from me over the years," Zhao Xuanjianmented, the thought of his past losses making his heart bleed.

    "Well, Uncle Zhao, I should get going. I''ll urge my father-inw toe pay promptly," Yun Xiao said, preparing to leave.

    "He better hurry!" Zhao Xuanjian shouted after him.

    "Will do!" And with that, Yun Xiao dashed down the stairs, his departure almost a blur.

    Zhao Xuanjian bit his lip, a feeling of being duped gnawing at him. He shot Stray Dog a re. "What are you looking at? Go fetch those two girls for me. My feet still need a proper wash!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    Heya folks,

    JL, your resident trantor-cum-food-connoisseur, her¡ªAnd <strong>HOLD IT!</strong> Before you guys even start typing what I think you''re typing in thements, it isn''t that <strong><em>CUM</em></strong>! Get your minds out of the gutter!

    As an ethnic Asian, I''m no stranger to weird food. I''ve eaten snake, hawk, turtle¡­ you name it! But tiger penis is something I''ve never tried. Like have you guys actually seen images of it? It looks so spiky¡­ and intimidating, like it could just jump out at any moment and suffocate me! But for you guys¡­ and <strong>SCIENCE</strong>, I would be willing to try it out. And I am also going back to China within the next year¡­ I mean, it can''t be that bad. It''s just another piece of meat, right?

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 163: Hand Over the Blood Crystal, Sever Your Arm

    Chapter 163: Hand Over the Blood Crystal, Sever Your Arm

    The Spirit Treasure Pce''s eighth floor had noticeably fewer guests than the lower floors. Those who made it here were essentially the big shots of the Immortal Empire.

    Yun Xiao and Stray Dog meandered for a bit before settling down at a tea break spot. Gazing down at the bustling courtyard below, one brother sipped wine, the other tea, both lost in profound reflection.

    Just then, from the corner of Yun Xiao''s eye, he caught sight of a peculiar group of people. A sly grin slowly crept upon his face. <em>WHOOSH! </em>He suddenly produced a ck jade box and set it on the table.

    "Damn!" Stray Dog eximed, his eyelid twitching. "Put that thing away! This floor''s crawling with top-tier demons!"

    "No worries, I''ve got a big ace up my sleeve." Yun Xiao replied nonchntly. With that, he summoned his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which boasted 200yers of Sword Aura. The sword now shone brightly; the Sword Ring of the Ape Saint''s son was now useless to him and was discarded.

    <em>CRACK! </em>Yun Xiao snapped the ck jade box open! A fierce, despairing demonic miasma instantly pervaded the entire eighth floor.

    "What the heck?!" Stray Dog was bbergasted. Had this kid gone mad?

    For a moment, the eyes of every guest and attendant on the eighth floor were riveted to the Blood Crystal Sword Ring.

    "A Saint Sword Ring, belonging to a Fox Demon Saint. Quite the find!" Yun Xiao murmured to himself, nonplussed. With a snap, he embedded the Saint Sword Ring into his Heaven Burial Sword Soul. <em>HUM! </em>The Blood Crystal transformed into a crimson Sword Ring, encircling the Sword Soul.

    <em>HISS! </em>The blood-red six-tailed fox emitted a ferocious shriek, as a demonic miasma formed by its magic engulfed the eighth floor of the Spirit Treasure Pce.

    "So powerful!" Yun Xiao eximed, his eyes shining with awe.

    For a moment, whispers filled the air.

    "Who is that?"

    "Seems like the son-inw of the Chen n? The Sword Emperor?"

    "Wait, is that a Saint Sword Ring?" one onlooker murmured, eyes wide.

    "What audacity!" another whispered.

    For a moment, many were agog, their jaws dropping.

    "This won''t end well," someone muttered, feeling a sense of foreboding.

    As those words lingered in the air, a man with silver hair abruptly appeared before Yun Xiao. His face was pale, and bloodshot eyes fixed intently on Yun Xiao, filled with fury.

    "What are you looking at?" Yun Xiao nonchntly remarked, retracting his Sword Soul.

    "That Blood Crystal... is it from my Fox n''s Demon Saint?" The silver-haired man''s voice trembled with rage as he clenched his fists.

    "So what if it is? Who are you to me?" Yun Xiao replied, eyebrow raised in challenge.

    "Brother," Stray Dog whispered urgently into Yun Xiao''s ear. "That''s Moon Fairy, the sole disciple of the Fox n''s revered Demon Saint, Lady Hua Lian. He''s one of those Primeval Demons with boundless prospects!" Panicking, he began looking for Zhao Xuanjian to intervene. By revealing the Blood Crystal in front of Moon Fairy, Yun Xiao had stirred a ho''s nest.

    "Hand over the Blood Crystal and sever an arm as your apology," Moon Fairy threatened, a dangerous glint in his eyes.

    "Moon," a voice echoed. A group appeared behind Moon Fairy, but one among them, a young man with pristine white hair, caught everyone''s attention. Tall, draped in an unblemished white robe, he resembled an elegant white peacock¡ªregal and aloof. Two violet-haired maidens apanied him, along with several talents from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire and ferocious demons from the Demon Continent. A cloaked figure, emanating a strong Sword Aura, stood not far from them.

    "Your Highness," Moon Fairy said, pointing coldly at Yun Xiao, "This man''s Sword Soul uses the relic of my Fox n''s Demon Saint as a Sword Ring."

    The young man was none other than the son of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor. The Peacock Prince looked over. "Who is he?" he inquired.

    "He''s the son-inw of the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, rumored to possess a Gxy grade Sword Soul."

    "Interesting," the Peacock Prince mused, narrowing his eyes.

    With a swift movement, Moon Fairy stood inches away from Yun Xiao, his face contorted with fury. "Hand over the relic of my Demon Saint ancestor. Sever an arm in penance, or face death!"

    Suddenly, Moon Fairy''s face morphed, revealing a fox-like visage with elongated sharp teeth.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, his gaze piercing. "Who do you think you are, barking orders at me? We''re in the Spirit Treasure Pce. Care to test your mettle here?"

    Everyone had already heard tales of Chen Xiao''s audacious son-inw, and, upon meeting him today, they confirmed the stories weren''t exaggerated in the slightest.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>With sudden vigor, Moon Fairy reached out, seizing Yun Xiao by the cor and head, and fiercely smashed him onto the table!

    <em>BANG! </em>Yun Xiao''s forehead met the hefty iron table, instantly splitting it. Blood smeared across his brow.

    He''s taken the first move!

    The crowd gasped in shock.

    "You!" With a swift motion, Yun Xiao swept Moon Fairy''s hands away using his sword, stepping back rapidly. Touching his wound, half his face was already stained in blood. Fury shed in his eyes, his face contorted in rage. "An uncivilized beast, you dare act wild in the sacred grounds of the Immortal Empire? Do you mistake this ce for your demonic homnd?"

    "Brother, calm down," Stray Dog hurriedly held him back.

    "Calm down? Him?!" Yun Xiao gripped his Sword Soul, pointing at Moon Fairy angrily, "Today, his head must fall by my hand!"

    The Saint Sword Ring on his Sword Soul shone even brighter, the blood-red six-tailed fox on it wailed hauntingly.

    "My ancestor!!" Moon Fairy''s eyes nearly split from rage. He roared, lunging at Yun Xiao, mouth wide, aiming for his head.

    <em>CRASH! </em>Stray Dog intervened, forcefully pulling the two apart. "Enough! Make another move, and the Spirit Treasure Pce won''t be kind!"

    "Stray Dog!" After suffering such humiliation, mes raged in Yun Xiao''s eyes. He stared down Moon Fairy, then turned to Stray Dog, "Doesn''t the Spirit Treasure Pce have a life-or-death arena? Fighting there wouldn''t be against the rules, right?"

    "Life-or-death arena?" Moon Fairy''s gaze grew even fiercer upon hearing this.

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul was almost pressed against Moon Fairy''s forehead. He smirked, "You want to take this Sword Ring, don''t you? I''ll give you a chance! To the life¨Cor-death Arena! If you win, I''ll return your ancestor''s pitiful remains!"

    Surrounding them, arge group of demons had gathered, their eyes ming with anger. The Peacock Prince''s eyes, too, seemed dark and demonic.

    "Let''s go now!" Tears of blood streamed from Moon Fairy''s eyes.

    "But what if you lose?" Yun Xiao chuckled coldly.

    "I have but one life, take it!" Moon Fairy replied.

    "Who would want the life of a lowly demon like you?" Yun Xiao pressed the Sword Ring close to Moon Fairy''s eyes, speaking coldly, "Money''s more like it!"

    "How much?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "This Sword Ring? It cost me ten thousand Saint Stones. If you want it, bet ten thousand of them," Yun Xiao dered.

    Saint Stones were not to be confused with Spirit Stones. They were a superior grade of spiritual ore. Each minuscule stone contained an amount of spiritual and immortal energy equivalent to tens of thousands of Spirit Stones. Especially beneficial for those beyond the Immortal Meridian Realm, itspact size and high purity made it more valuable than its lesser counterpart. No amount of Spirit Stones could purchase even one on the market. Ten thousand Saint Stones? That was equivalent to several hundred million Spirit Stones, maybe even upwards of a billion!

    Moon Fairy went silent at this, visibly thrown off. His pockets weren''t that deep. Looking around, he noticed several hundred guards from the Spirit Treasure Pce emerge, effectively cornering them, all the while shouting, "No fighting in the Spirit Treasure Pce! Break the rule, and pay dearly!"

    Seeing the backup, Yun Xiao smirked, "Just as I thought. An uncivilized beast who can''t even afford ten thousand Saint Stones. What are you doing here, trying to act bigger than your boots?"

    "You!!" Moon Fairy''s face contorted with rage, his fists clenched, veins bulging.

    <em>THUD! </em>Suddenly, beside Moon Fairy, the Peacock Prince threw down a Pouch of Holding. He red coldly at Yun Xiao before telling Moon Fairy, "Moon, I''ll front the ten thousand Saint Stones to help you im his life."

    "Your Highness¡­" Moon Fairy murmured, visibly moved.

    "It''s fine. Win, and the Saint Stones remain yours," the Peacock Prince replied.

    "Thank you!!" Moon Fairy whispered, thinking to himself, <em>It was worth getting chummy with himst night.</em>

    With the sudden introduction of ten thousand Saint Stones, everyone knew: a sh was inevitable. Not just a sh¡ªa bloodbath. The Supreme Marshal''s son-inw, the Sword Emperor, would face off against a genius demon of the Demon Continent.

    "Alright,e meet your end!" Yun Xiao, wiping the blood from his forehead, shed a fierce look, his eyes zing with sword energy. He leapt straight down from the eighth floor. The life-or-death arena, situated in the atrium of the Spirit Treasure Pce''s first floor, was always bustling. From there, battles could be watched from any floor.

    <em>WHOOSH WHOOSH! </em>In no time, spectators filled the balconies on each floor.

    This duel, agreed upon by both parties, had the Spirit Treasure Pce acting as the arbiter. With no elders present, this battle was entirely driven by the fiery zeal of youth.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiaonded in the very arena meant for battles of life and death, his silhouette contrasting against the vast expanse. Not far from him, Moon Fairy descended, backed by the formidable presence of the Peacock Prince, the princesses of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, and a host of other powerful individuals and demons. Their eyes? Brimming with murderous intent.

    "Activate the sealing formation!" Yun Xiao''s voice sliced through the air like a dagger.

    "Activate!" Moon Fairy agreed with a nod.

    Zhao Xuanjian had just finished washing his feet and walked into this chaos. Seeing the blood-red Sword Ring, he nearly fainted. "What''s going on here?" He turned to Stray Dog, confusion evident in his eyes.

    "Hey, don''t look at me. This guy and his wife, both are like short-fused powder kegs. I couldn''t hold him back!" Stray Dogmented with a pitiful tone.

    With that, the sealing formation activated and sealed the arena. The Spirit Treasure Pce, with its myriad floors, was soon surrounded by tens of thousands of spectators, their anticipation palpable.

    <em>HUM! </em>The moment the sealing formation was activated, without a single word, Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword charged out with ferocious speed. With 200yers of Sword Aura, backed by the Demon Saint''s magic, it was a force to be reckoned with.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The demon magic was unleashed, engulfing Moon Fairy with a crimson shroud, making him appear as though trapped in a bloody purgatory.

    "You''re going down!" Moon Fairy shrieked, his body morphing into a three-tailed fox as he lunged at Yun Xiao.

    Chuckling, Yun Xiao''s sword danced in the air, bursting repeatedly. With just an ordinary Ten-Step Scale, it detonated over twenty times, elevating its power to at least the Star grade.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>With a deafening sound, that sword, infused with the bloody purgatorial magic, struck the three-tailed fox squarely on its shoulder de.

    <em>THUD! </em>The de dug deep into the bone. The fox''s face contorted in shock.

    "He''s that strong?!" The Peacock Prince frowned.

    "He''s ying us, pretending to be weaker than he is, just to provoke Moon Fairy!" the Fifth Princess of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire muttered.

    The arena echoed with the sheer impact of that strike. Capitalizing on his advantage, Yun Xiao advanced relentlessly. His Flying Sword transformed into a Palm Sword, and with countless variations, pierced straight through Moon Fairy''s heart!

    Moon Fairy copsed, his demon blood gushing out like a river.

    <em>THUD! </em>Without a second thought, Yun Xiao stepped on him, repeatedly driving his sword through, painting the three-tailed fox a harrowing shade of red.

    "Just another uncivilized beast," Yun Xiao sneered, his voice dripping with arrogance. "Is this the level of a so-called genius Primeval Demon from the Demon Continent? Pathetic." But under his breath, he whispered to Blue Star, "Damn, that really hurt. I didn''t screw up, did I?"

    "Don''t worry," Blue Star replied with a smirk. "With your Divine Destion Physique, you won''t die."

    "Great, back to business then!" Yun Xiao suddenly mmed the three-tailed fox''s head into the ground, brutally kicking its face. "Why shouldn''t I use your ancestors as my Sword Ring? You lowly creaturese to our Immortal Empire in the Heavenly Realm, stirring up trouble. Do you think no one will stand up to you? You''re nothing!"

    <em>BANG BANG BANG! </em>He embedded the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into the fox''s tongue,ughing derisively. "See this? This is your ancestor, and I''ll keep it here forever. What can you do about it? Aside from rage impotently, that is."

    "A genius demon? Ha!" He insulted the fallen Moon Fairy over and over. And as Moon Fairyy in a pool of its own blood, every attempt at retaliation was met with even deeper humiliation.

    "That''s how you do it, Yun Xiao!" The human cultivators watching were ecstatic, giving sporadic apuse.

    In contrast, the talented demons of the Demon Continent looked as though they''d been pped. Their faces were so dark, they seemed ready to bleed.

    "All those Saint Stones gone to waste because of this useless Moon Fairy," the Sixth Princess of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire grumbled.

    "Silence!" The Peacock Prince shot her a fierce re.

    "I''m sorry, please don''t be mad, Brother Kong Ming," the Sixth Princess said, startled. She soon realized that not only had Moon Fairy been defeated, but Yun Xiao''s arrogance was also a p in the face to every demon present. Especially the Peacock Prince. Moon Fairy was with him, his man, and he had sponsored those Saint Stones. Every insult to Moon Fairy was also an insult to him.

    The crowd noticed the Peacock Prince''s eyes glowing with murderous intent, veins bulging on his neck, and a chilling aura emanating from him. <em>THUD! </em>The bloodied Moon Fairy, barely clinging to life, copsed at the Peacock Princer''s feet.

    "Your Highness," Moon Fairy whispered, its eyes dimming, "I''m sorry... I''ve shamed the Demon Continent."

    "Really now?" Yun Xiao bent down, plucking up a trove of ten thousand Saint Stones from the earth. He weighed them in his hand, casting a sardonic grin at Moon Fairy. "What''s this? Getting ahead of yourself? Think taking a human form makes you human? You''re just filthy vermin trying to act like you''re people." With a flourish, he turned on his heel, ready to make a graceful exit.

    "Hold it right there!" A voice, cold as a winter tide, anchored him in ce.

    Frost formed on Yun Xiao''s hair. He nced back to find the source of the chillingmand¡ªthe Peacock Prince himself.

    "Yun Xiao," he drawled, eyes squinted, hands sped behind him, fingers morphing into talons sharp as des. "I challenge you to a duel to the death."

    Beast on the ground, bird in the sky... Moon Fairy was the filthy vermin on the ground. So, who was the flying vermin in the sky?

    The crowd held their collective breath.

    Fortunately, Yun Xiao just chuckled. "Peacock Prince, do you take me for a fool? No thanks!" He resumed his departure.

    <em>THUD! </em>Something heavynded on the ground. Yun Xiao peered over his shoulder to find ten bags casually tossed down by the Peacock Prince. Each bag held ten thousand Saint Stones.

    The Peacock Prince''s voice dripped with malice, "All you have to do isst thirty breaths inside the sealing formation, and you win. Take them all. What do you say?"

    Yun Xiao hesitated, eyeing the glittering wealth, clearly tempted, but he managed to resist. "While the money is tempting, it''s useless if I''m not alive to spend it. I decline..."

    "Oh, really?" The Peacock Prince smirked and, with a flourish, began tossing out not just Saint Stones, but also the universal currency of the Demon Continent¡ªDeste Essence!

    Yun Xiao''s eyes widened, his breath catching.

    THUD! Finally, the Peacock Prince set down a chest with a solemn deration, "Gxy grade Deste Essence! Just endure for thirty breaths."

    Yun Xiao''s entire being shook with tension. He exchanged a nce with his body double, both sets of eyes sparkling with the same thought. Taking a deep breath, he clenched his teeth and said slowly, "Well, then¡­ I''d kindly ask you to be gentle with me..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 164: Multi-Talented Sword Immortal!

    Chapter 164: Multi-Talented Sword Immortal!

    "Yun Xiao has epted the challenge..." A hush enveloped the vast Spirit Treasure Pce, immediately followed by a cacophony of demonic roars that echoed throughout the hall. Their eyes glowed crimson, ws clenched, malevolent energy emanated from their throats, and they snarled and roared with gleaming teeth.

    "A bunch of demons pretending to be humans," Yun Xiao sneered inwardly. Using just a small trick with his body double had been enough to drive these beasts mad with fury. The Prince was surely angrier than the rest, but his lofty position and noble birth prevented him from screaming as the others did.

    "People die for riches! Looks like we''ve got a greedy one on the hook," the Fifth Princess remarked coldly.

    "Brother Kong Ming is a genius Primeval Demon of the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, having passed the first Wind Fire Tribtion. His magic power is infused with the power of the tribtion," the Sixth Princess said, eyes full of adoration as she gazed upon the solitary, majestic white peacock.

    "Survive for just thirty breaths and expect to be rich overnight? This son-inw must''ve gone mad from poverty..." Moon Fairy spat out blood, cursing resentfully.

    From that moment, the demons smirked while the humans gasped in rm.

    "Bro?" Stray Dog tugged at Yun Xiao''s arm and whispered, "Riches are enticing, but this isn''t child''s y."

    "Dog Bro, enough. I want to take this gamble! With this money, the possibilities are endless..." Yun Xiao gritted his teeth, eyes glued to the treasures before him.

    Upon hearing this, the crowd sighed softly.

    "This Sword Emperor may be talented, but he hails from the lower realms. It seems he can''t shake off his innate, inferior nature, being blinded by the allure of wealth."

    "It''s clear that Chen Xi is strict with him. He mustn''t have any spending money of his own."

    "Poor soul!"

    Watching Yun Xiao <em>struggle</em> and ultimately sumb to the lure of riches, heading toward the sealing formation, many murmured their thoughts.

    "Old Zhao?" Stray Dog asked Zhao Xuanjian with a furrowed brow.

    "It''s fine." Zhao Xuanjian was the only one who knew the terrifying rate at which Yun Xiao''s cultivation had soared in the lower realm! He understood better than anyone that while the kid might seem naive and easily swayed by greed, he was cunning deep down.

    As he spoke, the Peacock Prince transformed into a white shadow,nding abruptly in front of Yun Xiao, then coldlymanded Zhao Xuanjian, "Please activate the sealing formation, Mister Zhao."

    "Don''t..." Many didn''t wish for Yun Xiao to risk his life for riches and felt apprehensive.

    "Activate!" It was Yun Xiao who spoke, eyes burning with determination.

    "Very well!" Zhao Xuanjian gritted his teeth, personally activating the highest-level sealing formation. With a mournful expression, he turned to the audience and dered, "ce your bets, everyone! On behalf of the Spirit Treasure Pce, I''ll be the bookmaker. You have thirty breaths to lock in your bets. When the time''s up, the duel begins, and it toosts for thirty breaths!"

    Yun Xiao muttered under his breath, "Zhao Xuanjian, Madame Qian, Mr. Qian... they''re truly birds of a feather."

    With the sealing already in motion, the Peacock Prince calmed down. He watched indifferently as humans and demons ced their wagers. Simultaneously, he ordered the two younger princesses of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, "Use ten Heavenly Essence Pills to heal my brother, Moon Fairy."

    "Thank you, Your Highness," Moon Fairy replied, gratitude evident in his voice.

    The two princesses nodded. Approaching Moon Fairy, the Fifth Princess produced a jade vial, extracting ten pills, resembling white jade, and fed them one by one into Moon Fairy''s mouth.

    "That''s a top-tier Gxy-grade healing elixir. Brother Kong Ming is genuinely kind to you," the Sixth Princessmented, her lips curling up with jealousy.

    "Yes, I''m deeply ashamed," Moon Fairy murmured.

    "Truly, you''re really useless!" The Fifth Princess arched an eyebrow, chuckling, "Look at Brother Kong Ming. He''s a Primeval Demon just like you. But that money-hungry fool won''t evenst three breaths against him, let alone thirty."

    "The Peacock Prince''s prowess is unmatched... I pale inparison," Moon Fairy sighed.

    "Cheer up! You have potential. Today, Brother Kong Ming will avenge you. Show gratitude, alright?" the Fifth Princess instructed.

    "With my life, I swear loyalty to the Peacock Prince, pledging my eternal devotion and readiness to shed blood in his name!" Moon Fairy proimed, eyes burning with determination.

    "That''s more like it," the two princesses exchanged nces, thinking to themselves, Those ten Heavenly Essence Pills were well-spent.

    Meanwhile, the betting at the Spirit Treasure Pce concluded.

    Yun Xiao, appearing a tad sulky, remarked, "It''s a shame I''m trapped within the sealing formation. I couldn''t bet on myself winning."

    "You should know when to quit," Blue Star retorted disdainfully.

    Yun Xiao whispered, "I''m only at the Early Immortal Meridian Realm, while he''s at the Early Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. That''s a vast gap. Do I even stand a chance?"

    "Just give it your best shot. You''ll survive those thirty breaths," Blue Star assured. Having made a pretty penny recently, the duo wasn''t even afraid of the Divine Dawn Empress. A mere demon prince certainly couldn''t kill Yun Xiao.

    "Even so, I want to win!" Yun Xiao''s ambition and courage, fueled by his recent advancements in dao and sword techniques, and especially by his Nine Dragons Dantian and Nine Heavens Star Meridians, urged him on.

    "The legacy of the Creator Immortal!" he thought. "I hope he gives me a good fight!"

    In the grand duel at the Grand Temple against the likes of Mu Shuofeng and the four demons, it had been nothing more than child''s y for Yun Xiao. A mere exercise akin to slicing melons and chopping vegetables. But the man before him today? He was unquestionably a true adversary.

    Before the battle even began, a fierce gleam ignited in Yun Xiao''s eyes, a thirst forbat overtaking his heart.

    "Bets are ced, let the match begin!" Zhao Xuanjian dered. But he quickly added, "Peacock Prince, Yun Xiao didn''t kill Moon Fairy. So, I implore you to view this as a friendly match. After all, the bond between humans and demons has been longstanding¡­"

    His plea was met with a chorus of disdainful hisses from the demons. Did the Peacock Prince ce such a substantial bet merely for a friendly sparring session? Anyone with half a brain knew that he sought bloodshed. To not kill would be insufficient to quell the demons'' raging thirst for vengeance!

    The very moment Zhao Xuanjian''s wordsnded, the Peacock Prince lunged forward, ready to deal the killing blow.

    The clock began its countdown of thirty breaths.

    With an ear-piercing screech, the Peacock Prince transformed into a razor-sharp phantom sword, rocketing towards Yun Xiao. The shriek was so overpowering that at least eighty percent of those in the Spirit Treasure Pce clutched their ears in agony. One could only imagine the brutality Yun Xiao''s ears were enduring at the heart of that storm.

    In mere moments, blood trickled from Yun Xiao''s ears, rendering himpletely deaf.

    The world fell silent.

    "Impressive!" Yun Xiao''s eyes ignited with a battle-hardened re, the kind only seen in seasoned warriors.

    In a sh, the Peacock Prince''s feet morphed into sharp talons, tearing through the air and aiming for Yun Xiao''s throat and eyes. A move so simple, yet brutally effective. And he managed to look effortlessly graceful while at it. White robes billowing, silver hair dancing in the wind.

    "He''s so fast! So fierce!" Many humans witnessing the Peacock Prince''s prowess for the first time gasped in awe. His style, vastly different from their own, left them utterly spellbound.

    "Yun Xiao is doomed!" they murmured, faces pale.

    "Kill him!" The demons roared with glee.

    For a heartbeat, the world seemed to hold its breath.

    Amidst the rapid y of lights, Yun Xiao stood his ground, unfazed. Without unsheathing his Sword Soul, his fingers danced, and as he lifted his hand, mist gathered before his eyes, transforming into three enraged sea dragons.

    The dragons roiled, engulfing half of the sealing formation in its misty embrace. With a fearsome form, they surged, forming a formidable barrier and colliding with the oing Peacock Prince.

    "Elemental Scripture, Water Mist Shield!"

    Gasps echoed around.

    As graceful as the Peacock Prince appeared, Yun Xiao outdid him. With his pristine white robes billowing, and a calm gaze, he controlled the dragons as they soared skyward.

    With a thunderous crash, the trio of dragons sent the swift figure of the Peacock Prince hurtling back, crashing against the interior of the sealing formation.

    "What?!" The expressions of the spectating demons shifted.

    It was as though Yun Xiao had pped them across their faces in their moment of fury. The prowess of his Gxy grade daoist spell, a testament to the faith of the Grand Temple, was on full disy.

    And Yun Xiao wasn¡¯t done yet.

    As mist enveloped Yun Xiao, he raised his other hand, murmuring an incantation. Between his flying strands of hair, thousands of fiery sparks burst forth. In the union of fire and water, a zing orb, as fierce as the morning sun, hung in the air and descended upon the Peacock Prince, engulfing him instantly.

    The ground trembled with another explosive sound.

    "Elemental Scripture, Fire God''s Wrath!!"

    The cultivators present were stupefied. "Using the Elemental Scripture to this extent and he calls himself a Sword Cultivator?"

    The demons and cultivators from the Immortal Empire watched, their eyes wide in shock. It felt like they¡¯d been pped again, and they were visibly rattled.

    "I hope Brother Kong Ming is okay," the Sixth Princess murmured in a daze.

    Within a mere span of three breaths, not only had the Peacock Prince failed to overpower his opponent, he found himself on the losing end.

    <em>HUM! </em>Her words had scarcely left her lips when the zing fireball burst forth, and a massive white silhouette suddenly soared into the air. Amidst the shockwaves, a pair of wings, aze with white fire, unfurled grandly. In mere moments, its intense luminescence lit up half of the sealing formation.

    It was a peacock, radiant in its snowy hue and possessing an aura both chilling and incandescent.

    With eyes as narrow as slits, a beak sharp as any sword, wings that seemed to wield the might of great des, and talons of deadly precision, it was covered in feathers that looked like des of pure white.

    "Somewhat impressive." The Peacock Prince, now in his peacock form, squinted his eyes and uttered these words before giving his majestic body a sharp shake.

    <em>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </em>Hundreds of the de-like white feathers shot toward Yun Xiao like a torrential rain of flying swords, causing gasps and exmations of astonishment.

    This peacock was genuinely a force to be reckoned with! Yet Yun Xiao''s gaze remained icy. In this battle, he dropped any pretense, revealing an aura colder and more foreboding than even the white peacock.

    Sure, the Peacock Prince was quite the looker in both human and peacock forms, butpared to Yun Xiao''s divine countenance at that moment, he was outshone. The crowd of onlookers suddenly realized that this young man seemed different, more terrifying than ever before.

    Facing the oing storm of de-like feathers, Yun Xiao advanced. His eyes shed, and with a thrust of his palm, the ground trembled!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The floor of the battle arena exploded, bricks and stones shattering, sending a tide of dirt and rock surging forth. This wave of debris ensnared the sword-like feathers before crashing into the white peacock.

    The crowd was gobsmacked!

    This was the Mountain Upheaval daoist spell from the Elemental Scripture. To employ it to this extent meant Yun Xiao had mastered the entire Elemental Scripture! He really did have a lot of tricks up his sleeve!

    Yet, due to a slight shortfall in his magic power, Yun Xiao''s earth-shattering move managed to fend off the Peacock Prince''s barrage of feathers, but couldn''tpletely suppress the assault.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Peacock Prince, whose physical prowess was nothing short of mind-boggling, wriggled out of the earthen tidal wave in a mere heartbeat. With a deafening screech and a blinding sh, he closed the distance to Yun Xiao in an instant.

    Once transformed into a peacock, he not only became faster but more agile. His beak, ws, and wings were as deadly as Sword Souls, and his pristine white feathers were as protective as enchanted armor. This body was forged through countless challenges and tribtions.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The white peacock spiraled in the air, its beak piercing towards Yun Xiao''s eyes like a razor-sharp de.

    Yun Xiao swiftly drew his sword. The Sword Soul transformed into a three-foot-long azure Palm Sword. With the howling of 200yers of Sword Aura, a Saint Sword Ring enveloped the white peacock in a bloody inferno.

    <em>KLANG KLANG KLANG! </em>In that fleeting moment, Yun Xiao exchanged at least a dozen strikes with the peacock. Each blow was executed with ultimate speed and lethal force. Such was the versatility of Yun Xiao. The multi-talented Sword Immortal!

    Any other cultivator, caught off guard by this demon at such close quarters, would''ve easily been torn to shreds.

    "Man, he''s tough!" Yun Xiao grumbled. The peacock''s physique possessed mountain-like strength and was impervious to des.

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Xiao''s 200yers of Sword Aura, when shing the peacock''s wing, sparked and skidded off.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a forceful p of its wings, exuding power reminiscent of a charging dragon or elephant, the peacock sent Yun Xiao crashing into the walls of the sealing formation, his energy churning tumultuously.

    In the next instant, the Peacock Prince, with a cold glint in his eyes, lunged, wings outstretched like swords, aiming straight for Yun Xiao''s heart.

    The Peacock Prince fought with a raw, animalistic ferocity that was instinctual, sharp, and vicious. Its greatest strengthsy in the brute force and rigidness of its physique. But Yun Xiao could tell; this demon had a polished method of ughter all its own.

    When it truly unleashed its fury,bining its demon magic, it was on par with the most refined sword and daoist spells.

    <em>BOOM BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao summoned his Water Mist Shield again, repelling the white peacock''s lethal strike, and swiftly put distance between them. "What a thrilling fight!" he eximed, somewhat out of breath. Given the choice, he would''ve loved to spar a while longer.

    However, from below, the two princesses from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire cried out in unison, "Brother Kong Ming, only ten breaths left! Hurry!"

    The white peacock, hearing the call, soared into the sky. Its eyes, cold as ciers, fixed on Yun Xiao. In a chilling voice, it remarked, "You''re amendable opponent. What a pity you got greedy today."

    Its insinuation was clear. Had Yun Xiao not been lured by riches into this contest, he might''ve grown to be a formidable future threat to the creature.

    "He''s going for the kill!" Stray Dog''s heart raced.

    "Hang on for just ten more breaths, Yun Xiao!" Zhao Xuanjian''s heart pounded in his chest.

    With only ten breaths remaining, the demons grew frantic, their shrieks more fierce and desperate. "Spread your tail!" they chanted in eerie harmony.

    A peacock disying its tail feathers¡ªa sight of suffering for the mortal realm. It was the most fearsome ability of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor. And this white peacock, being its offspring, had clearly inherited such a sinister technique.

    <em>HUM! </em>White mes, even more turbulent than before, engulfed the white peacock. It seemed reborn from the mes. A shudder ran through its body, and its tail feathers stood erect.

    Another piercing screech erupted from its beak,pelling all to cover their ears. The scratchy friction sound emanating from itsrge tail feathers was almost ear-piercing, yet mesmerizing.

    When the feathers finally fanned out, pale eyes appeared upon them¡ªthirty-three in total. Each eye zed with white mes, and the wails of tormented souls echoed from within.

    At this moment, the cheers and screams of the demons reached an unprecedented crescendo.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 165: Kill! Kill! Kill!

    Chapter 165: Kill! Kill! Kill!

    The collective heart rate of the crowd skyrocketed!

    "A soul-based Ocr Technique!" Blue Star cried out in rm.

    "It has imprisoned so many souls..." Red Moon uttered through gritted teeth.

    "Oh?" At that moment, bloodshot rage filled Yun Xiao''s eyes! This was the true form of the malevolent demon! Cloaked in pure white, bathed in a dreamy radiance, and exuding a cold and lofty demeanor, especially its tail feathers, which, when unfurled, resembled a dazzling gxy, with its thirty-three eyes gleaming like white stars. Yet, these beautiful tail feathers were nothing short of a mortal hell.

    "This hatred, irreconcble!" Yun Xiao''s ears had not fully recovered, and all he could hear was a jumble of noises. However, this did not dampen the fury that zed within his chest.

    <em>HUM! </em>The Sword Soul transformed into a Flying Sword, clutched in his right hand, vibrating with immense force!

    Yun Xiao felt as though he was back in front of the Sword Dao Monument, facing the countless marks of enraged swords from ages past. Millennia of anger concentrated on the de in his hand!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the peacock unfurled its feathers, Yun Xiao raised his left hand, and from the ground beneath the white peacock, dozens of dark vines shot up.

    <em>CRACK CRACK CRACK! </em>They rose like steel whips, entangling themselves around the white peacock! It was Elemental Scripture, Frenzy nt! Though it wouldn''t kill the demon, it could imprison it.

    "y!" With all the rage of a thousand storms, all concentrated into one sword! After suppressing the Peacock Prince with his daoist spell, Yun Xiao ferociouslyunched his Flying Sword! This sword strike was faster than the peacock''s unfurling!

    This was Humanity''s Supreme Sword, the number one demon ying sword!

    "Constetion ying Sword, Meteor Shower!" With the release of the sword, a zing light cast ten illusions, the dazzling meteors illuminated the Spirit Treasure Pce, exuding a chilling murderous intent that took one''s breath away!

    "What!?" The white peacock, on the verge of fully disying its feathers, was suddenly ensnared by the massive growth of nts and was now incandescent with fury!

    "You!" A dazzling brilliance shed before his eyes, and the Meteor Shower was now like a shooting star plummeting towards him! In the blink of an eye, the meteor morphed into ten beams of light, each more rming than thest!

    The Peacock Prince''s expression shifted, hurriedly using its beak, wings, and ws to defend. Yet, it couldn''t block them all!

    "Die!" With Yun Xiao''s deep roar, the ultimate blue beam shot out, piercing straight into the white peacock''s eye.

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>The Flying Sword pierced through one of the white peacock''s eyes and exited the back of his head, trailed by a mixture of red and white. For a moment, time seemed to stand still.

    "Ughh..." Dizzied, the Peacock Prince gazed with its remaining eye at the young man in white. What it saw was the youth in white robes, catching that Flying Sword! With another thrust, he obliterated thest eye!

    Both eyes pierced through, darkness now enveloped everything. In thest fleeting moment, the Peacock Prince noticed the young man''s smile. That smirk told him that he''d been yed like a fiddle. From start to finish, he''d been dancing in the palm of someone else''s hand. As despair washed over the Peacock Prince, his life faded like wisps of blue smoke.

    "No..." With one final, feeble cry, the white peacock plummeted into the abyss of death. The proud, aloof white peacock''s mes vanished instantly, its luminosity dimmed. The feathers it unted lost their vitality, the eyes on them shutting tight. The trapped souls within them soared upward from each, entering the cycle of rebirth, seeking a new beginning...

    <em>THUD! </em>The majestic white peacock copsed softly to the ground.

    The young man in white stood triumphantly in front of the magnificent creature, one foot nonchntly resting on the fallen peacock''s head. He gazed down at the resplendent corpse, the corner of his mouth twisting into a smirk of disdain.

    "That''s all you''ve got, Peacock Prince?" His words were soft, but they held a biting edge, sharper than the shrillest shriek. Not only did they pierce the eardrums of the watching demons, but they also stabbed right into their very souls.

    Yun Xiao lifted his gaze and cast a sweeping look over the eerily silent Spirit Treasure Pce. With a dry chuckle, he remarked, "It seems the Peacock Prince got it wrong. Turns out the one who couldn''tst thirty breaths... was him."

    Then, as if to emphasize his disdain, Yun Xiao began to step on the peacock''s head. He stepped hard, left and right, up and down, back and forth. After a thorough trampling with one foot, he switched to the other. With a casual shrug, he mused aloud, "Demon flesh is quite tough, isn''t it? Seems even harder in death. Can''t even squash it t."

    The sight of the humiliated Peacock Prince,bined with the earlier killing blow, struck like twin swords into the hearts of the shocked onlookers.

    "The Peacock Prince... is dead..." The once raucous demons now stared, mouths agape and eyes trembling. All were struck dumb and numb. At their most arrogant, Yun Xiao had pped them down with a single sword move. Their confidence had utterly shattered, leaving them paralyzed in stunned silence.

    Yet, the most devastated seemed to be two human girls, princesses of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire. They looked as if they had been struck by lightning, their faces pale and contorted in grief. They copsed, their young features twisted in anguish.

    "Brother Kong Ming..." The one they had vied for and adored was now just a lifeless body, repeatedly stepped upon by Yun Xiao. And no one intervened. Their hearts bled.

    "Kill him! Kill him!" the two cried, turning to those around them.

    But their voices were drowned out by a heart-wrenching scream, "Peacock Prince!"

    Everyone''s eyes turned,nding on Moon Fairy. There he stood, in human form, a statue of stunned disbelief.

    Whispers rippled through the crowd, rife with pity. "What a shame! The person he had just sworn to follow for life, gone in the blink of an eye."

    <em>BAM! </em>With clenched fury, Moon Fairy''s fist collided with the sealing formation. "Back off, Yun Xiao! Step away from him!"

    "I just stepped on him. What of it?" Yun Xiao replied with a chuckle.

    "Open the sealing formation!" Moon Fairy roared at Zhao Xuanjian.

    "Don''t you dare," Yun Xiao retorted, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul gripped firmly in his hand, cold eyes trained on Moon Fairy.

    "Yun Xiao!" Moon Fairy bellowed, pointing usingly. "You have in and humiliated the beloved son of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor! Do you evenprehend the monumental mistake you''ve made? Once the Emperor''s fury is unleashed, your Divine Dawn Empire will be razed! Your end is sealed! And anyone foolish enough to shield you shares your fate!"

    At his revtion, a collective gasp swept the assembly. The horde of demons stirred, enraged.

    "As the son-inw of the Supreme Marshal, you have openly broken the peace between humans and demons! Your crimes are grievous! Both humans and demons shall see you judged!" The fifth princess of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, her eyes ame with rage, spoke on behalf of humanity.

    "Open the sealing formation and send this miscreant to the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor!" the sixth princess cried out.

    "Kill him! Kill! Kill!" The demon crowd''s roars grew more frenzied, faces twisted with fury.

    Clearly, the real storm brewed in the wake of the prince''s death...

    As the Violet Sky Immortal Empire and the assembly of demons pressed on with their threats, the human cultivators of the Spirit Treasure Pce found their pulses racing. Sure, the initial scene had been thrilling, but now? Uncertainty prevailed.

    Someone needed to alert the Chen Heavenly Mansion, and fast!

    "Enough with your nonsense!" Amid the mounting tension, Yun Xiao stood unyielding. A defiant smirk yed on his lips. "This was a duel. A life-and-death battlefield. The prince sought this fight, and I fairly defeated him. Where lies my fault? Do you use the name of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor to intimidate me because your Demon Continent can''t handle the loss? Or is it the Emperor himself who''s the sore loser? Making such a fuss here... How utterly disgraceful."

    Asserting moral high ground was key for Yun Xiao. Why else would he have gone to such lengths to stage this game?

    His words stopped the demons and the Violet Sky Immortal Empire representatives in their tracks. An honorable defeat left no room for their objections.

    "Moreover," Yun Xiao sneered at the two princesses, "you, as humans, and the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, as a human realm, should stand up for your people. When I y demons, what right do you have to protest?"

    Without waiting for the two princesses to respond, Yun Xiao deftly sliced off a tail feather from the white peacock, holding it up for all to see. With a theatrical flourish, he announced, "Can''t you folks see what''s in this? Human souls! One eye held so many souls; just imagine how many would be in thirty-three eyes! How many of our kind has this demon devoured? Can any of you even count that high?"

    His words struck like a gong, leaving the human crowd in stunned silence.

    "To the princesses," Yun Xiao boomed, his voice dripping with scorn, "You walk alongside this mass murderer, defend it, speak for this beast. I must ask¡­ does your Violet Sky Immortal Empire raise humans or demons?" His voice thundered, pushing the princesses back a step, their faces flushed, utterly lost for words.

    Everything that unfolded in the Spirit Treasure Pce was news that would ripple across both the Heavenly Realm and the Demon Continent. Every gesture, every word from Yun Xiao carried weight.

    "Sure, humans and demons have treaties and these are times of peace, but for the folks from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire to side with this demon, oblivious to their own people''s lives... It''s a sight that''s quite hard on the eyes," Yun Xiao remarked.

    The murmurs from the crowd made it clear they were on his side. "Such a shame," one sighed. "This man has fire in his belly," another whispered in awe.

    Regardless of the whispers, Yun Xiao knew he had won the approval of his kin. And that was all he needed.

    As the whispers grew, the princesses, sensing the mood, wisely chose silence over defense, their eyes welling up in suppressed frustration.

    But Moon Fairy, undeterred, kept banging on the sealing formation, ring at Yun Xiao. "No matter how eloquently you phrase it, your fate''s sealed! When our mighty demon forces descend, nobody will dare back you!"

    "We''ll see," Yun Xiao replied nonchntly, and with a smirk, he crushed the Peacock Prince''s head beneath his foot.

    "Yun Xiao! Having killed it was one thing, but to desecrate its body? You''ll never find redemption!" the Moon Fairy shrieked.

    The surrounding demons, with their murderous intentions clear, looked ready to break through the barrier, the very reason Zhao Xuanjian hadn''t dared to release it. Once it came down, Yun Xiao would surely be swallowed by their rage.

    "''Defile the body?''" Yun Xiao responded with an icy smirk, his eyes zing at Moon Fairy. "This Peacock Prince has murdered countless innocent souls of our kind. I step on it a few times and you''re all up in arms?"

    "How dare you!" The assembled demons roared in fury.

    "Daring? Ha! Let me show you what real audacity looks like."

    Without another word, Yun Xiao, under the watchful eyes of thousands of demons, plunged his sword into the belly of the Peacock Prince. The white peacock''s insides spilled out in a wet, grotesque heap.

    "He''s been dead for a while; everything''s gone soft," Yun Xiao quipped, driving his Sword Soul directly into the demon''s spine and audaciously draining its essence.

    There was an uproariousmotion in the Spirit Treasure Pce.

    "Insolent brat! Die! Die! Die!" The demons, driven to madness, pounded on the protective barrier, eyes practically popping out of their skulls.

    "Hold it!" Zhao Xuanjian, nked by the pce guards, swiftly surrounded the area. He stared at Yun Xiao, his beard twitching in disbelief. What was this young man thinking? Draining the essence of the child of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, right in front of everyone? This wasn''t just a p in the face to the Emperor; it was a challenge to the entire Demon Continent. If word of this spread, the Heavenly Realm would plunge into chaos.

    But Yun Xiao seemed unconcerned. In mere moments, he drained the demon dry. And yes, he reimed the Seed of Creation, intending to toss it to his body doubleter.

    "Oh? Upset, are we?" Yun Xiao turned to face the incensed demons, wearing a cold smirk. "We''re just getting started."

    As the horde stared at Yun Xiao''s brazen demeanor, an unsettling thought crossed their minds. He wouldn¡¯t¡­ But before they could process the idea, the Soul Ignition Art was unleashed upon the corpse. Crackling sounds echoed as the once mighty body began to crystallize, gradually bing a Blood Crystal under the searing force.

    With a snap, Yun Xiao hung the Blood Crystal on his Sword Soul, shaking his head disdainfully. "Just a mediocre Wind Fire Sword Ring. Compared to a Saint Sword Ring, it''s rather unimpressive!"

 Chapter 166: Come at Me!

    Chapter 166: Come at Me!

    Yun Xiao raised his three-foot-long azure sword. Enveloping the sword, a misty white soul mist formed a ring. Within it, a seemingly sacred but actually fierce white peacock spread its wings. It screamed piercingly, chilling the spines of countless humans!

    This poignant sight of the Peacock Prince, contrasting sharply with Yun Xiao''s cold, shallow smile, was a scene to behold.

    Devouring demon bones, forging the Sword Ring¡­ Yun Xiao''s sessive moves dumbfounded the horde of demons! In that moment, their eyes turned utterly blood-red. At least half of the demons, right there in the Spirit Treasure Pce, reverted to their true monstrous forms!

    "Despicable bastard, you shall not die a good death!"

    "Tear him apart!"

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Massive bodies of flesh and blood mmed against the sealing formation, their ws and fangs tearing wildly, roaring brutally. A mass of twisted demonic faces piled up before Yun Xiao''s eyes!

    "Stop, all of you!" Zhao Xuanjian led ten thousand guards of the Spirit Treasure Pce, their magical treasures raised, shouting in unison. "Fighting is forbidden outside the life-or-death arena!" At least on these humannds, their strength far surpassed the furiously irrational demons, giving them a stern reprimand.

    "Would you of the Spirit Treasure Pce dare to break the human-demon treaty, openly sheltering this criminal?" a few demons at the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm warned with a menacing tone.

    "Don''t just pbels on us! The ban on fighting in the Spirit Treasure Pce is our rule, which no one can break! If you want to fight, take it outside! And remember, if you damage our stuff, you''re paying for it!" Zhao Xuanjian dered sternly, his voice resounding.

    "Fine!" The demon crowd, hearing this, finally restrained their fury a bit.

    "Everybody calm down! The kid''s a goner," a voice bellowed.

    "Just keep him here, he''s just a turtle in a jar. The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor will take care of him. He''ll regret ever setting foot here!" another snarled.

    Yun Xiao chuckled. "How fascinating! Did your lot grow a brain overnight? Even picked up our human''s famous turtle-in-a-jar phrase, huh?" His words not only chafed the demons, but the humans of a more submissive inclination also felt a pang of difort.

    The two princesses of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, their eyes burning with indignation at the sight of the brutalized Peacock Prince, stepped forward.

    "Yun Xiao!" The fifth princess, with a finger thrust usingly at him, her face a canvas of grief, cried out, "You''re utterly selfish, acting without considering the consequences! You don''t possess the strength to change the dynamic between humans and demons. You''re just chasing a fleeting, thoughtless thrill. If the Demon Continent grows furious and deres war, you''ll be history''s viin, responsible for untold suffering."

    From his elevated position, Yun Xiao looked down at the princess. His gaze was one of indifference and profound dismissal. "Princess, it''s a time of peace now. If the mere flutter of a butterfly''s wing could trigger wars, our kind would''ve been extinct ages ago. Despite our weaker standing after the ancient wars, why do you think we''re still here? Because we have fighters who aren''t afraid to die. Demons tread cautiously, content with the status quo. This so-called peace was purchased with the lives of countless Sword Cultivators, not by you ying the gracious, appeasing diplomat. You think they''d wage a war every time a Peacock Prince or Demon Saint offspring falls in a duel? What do you think this is, a child''s game?"

    With his eyes now tainted with streaks of red, he continued, addressing the crowd from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, "As for causing the deaths of innocent people... Open your eyes and witness the hundreds of thousands killed by this Demon Prince. Their lives became the very feathers unting from his tail. When you all watched in amusement, did you ever care about their fates? Weren''t they innocent? Where were you holy maidens when they suffered? You call me mindless? Does bowing down like submissive dogs make you the smarter ones?

    "Do you even understand what this peace treaty is about? Demons ying humans? All good. Humans killing a demon? High crime! So, by your logic, kneeling to the demons is righteous, while seeking justice for our kind is a crime deserving death. Hrious..." Surrounded by a multitude of demons, Yun Xiao''sughter was chilling, but his heart surged with rage and sorrow. He sought justice for the people, hoping to ensure their safe passage into the next life. Yet, those of his own kind were stabbing him in the back.

    Is this what humans hade to? So utterly selfish?

    "These demons from the Demon Continent, savoring raw flesh and drinking blood, have been casting greedy eyes on our human world for ages. You think they''re phnthropists? That if you parade around with those silly grins on your faces trying to appease them, they''ll just spare you?

    "All you lot, living like pigs and dogs in this so-called era of peace, actually believe this momentary tranquility was earned by groveling and being servile? If it weren''t for the silent sacrifices of our ancestors, defending our borders with fierce determination, showing those demons our spirit and might, just how long do you think our world would stand?"

    Soldiers bled on the frontiers, defending our homnd. Losing heads and spilling blood. Dying, wrapped in their own horse''s skin. Meanwhile, the sons and daughters of great families indulged in the pleasures of the capital, savoring life''s joys. They criticized the very soldiers that protected them, using them of disturbing the peace, saying they should be condemned. Did they really think these demons had kind hearts and would genuinely abide by a peace treaty?

    "Even humans break their promises. How can you trust demons?" Yun Xiao once believed <em>peace</em> was possible. But the hundreds of thousands of souls on that Peacock Prince''s tail feathers¡­ What was the story there? All of the people, praising how beautiful it looked when it spread its tail, what was that about?

    Who would avenge the dead?! These weren''t heavenly elites who died but ordinary folks like Yun Xiao, toiling silently throughout their lives in the mortal realm. All the wars in this world that had yet to erupt, it wasn''t because they groveled and celebrated an era of peace. It''s simply because the other side still feared their sword.

    That was it! If you didn''t draw your sword, and instead approached with a goofy grin, even the most lowly demon would step on your face without hesitation.

    As Yun Xiao spoke these words, the eyes of many humans turned bloodshot. His words pierced their souls. Surely, there were still righteous men in the world.

    Zhao Xuanjian and Stray Dog exchanged nces. In their eyes, the white-d youth on the battlefield was no mindless brute. Each step he took was calcted, deliberate. His words that day revealed truths many denied.

    If he were to die tomorrow, he''d be remembered as a valiant youth of the human world. His spirit would inspire many. The culture of superficiality and frivolity that now gued the Immortal Empires had begun at the Grand Temple, influencing generation after generation.

    "Yun Xiao stands against the Peacock Prince, championing righteousness! If he can reforge the spirit of this generation, his merit will be boundless!" Zhao Xuanjian murmured.

    "There are traitors in the Grand Temple..." Stray Dog remarked with a cold chuckle.

    "Or they might just be spineless," Zhao Xuanjian retorted with a snicker.

    Undoubtedly, hearing these words was agonizing to the demons and especially the weak-willed humans who had submitted. More painful than losing their fathers.

    Indeed, the sixth princess of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire darkened in fury, gritting her teeth. "Shut your mouth, Yun Xiao! You twist facts, spewing lies. The demons have evolved; they''re far more civilized than you! Regardless... even if no war erupts, both you and the Chen n backing you are doomed!"

    "Oh? The Supreme Marshal defends our borders, ys demons, and protects our people. And now you set your <em>righteous</em> sights on him?" Yun Xiaoughed, smirking, "Here''s the thing, I''m but a mere son-inw of the Chen n, selling myself off without any power. Why would the Chen n back me?"

    Everyone was taken aback.

    Yun Xiao''s face suddenly turned cold. He swept his gaze over the demons, dering loudly, "Today, on this battlefield, I righteously slew the Peacock Prince! He treated our human lives like grass. So, I consumed his demon bones, refined his flesh, and will whip his corpse daily with my Sword Soul to vent my fury! Tell your Eternal Joy Demon Emperor that I stand for my own actions. If he feels his son was wronged, let hime for me. If he doesn''t dare, I''ll think even less of him!"

    The words that flowed from Yun Xiao''s lips left everyone, be they human or demon, stunned into silence.

    "What guts is this?" Yet, after uttering those words, he had effectively put the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor on the proverbial hot seat. No matter if the demon chose to act or not, he was now caught in a state of torment. To act would mean lowering himself.

    Yun Xiao held onto two undeniable truths. First, the Peacock Prince had met his end in a fair duel. And second, the Peacock Prince had trapped many human souls in his tail feathers. With these two facts, he positioned himself atop a pedestal of righteousness. Anyone who opposed him would feel their cheeks burn with embarrassment.

    In short, this was hardly a brash moment of foolish bravado. Everything was coldly calcted.

    But Yun Xiao wasn''t finished yet. In the arena, he pointed his sword menacingly at the gathered demons, his voice cold as the devil himself. "Tomorrow, the War of Immortals willmence. The day after, the actual war begins! This is our Immortal Empire''s battle of elites. What does your demon kind have to do with it? A bunch of uncivilized beasts dreaming of marrying our human empress?"

    "Listen closely," his sword swept across every demon present. "Here''s the deal. If this Eternal Joy Demon Emperor has even a shred of shame and doesn''te for my head within two days, I vow to y all your so-called genius demons, Young Demon Saints, and Demon Princes in the War of Immortals. I''ll drench our sacrednd with your blood as an offering to the spirits of our ancestors and fallen. I''ll sever the spine and legs of all yourckeys, forcing them to kneel and repent for a lifetime before the souls of our heroes.

    "I beseech all the Demon Emperors and Demon Saints to try and put an end to me, to offer a sliver of hope for your five thousand elite demons.

    "Lastly, a word for all you demons andckeys. I will bear the consequences of my actions alone. Just me and my sword, free and unburdened. If you wish to fight or slice,e at me!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 167: Give an Inch, Yun Xiao Takes a...

    Chapter 167: Give an Inch, Yun Xiao Takes a...

    Yun Xiao knew Chen Xi''s intentions. By using her identity, she attracted countless demons to the war. For what? Simply to eradicate the demons on a just and open stage. She was fearless, even in the face of starting a war, and she aimed for total annihtion.

    If she dared to plot this deep, what did Yun Xiao have to fear? Today, all he had aimed for was some wealth and a Saint Sword Ring. Although his subsequent actions were spontaneous, each step was calcted. Perfectly so. His derations were a prelude, setting the stage for Chen Xi''s uing maneuvers. Maybe at this moment, many would think he was just blindly spouting threats, but time, he believed, would reveal the truth.

    As expected, when Yun Xiao uttered those bold words, the demons actually hoped that the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor wouldn''t rush out to finish him off.

    "Blowing your own trumpet much?" a voice sneered. "Forget five thousand, any slightly older prodigy from my Demon Continent could tear you limb from limb!"

    "Yun Xiao, mark my words! The consequences of today''s actions will haunt your descendants for generations toe!"

    "Humans, just you wait!"

    The demons had never participated in the Heavenly Realm''s War of Immortals. But from that moment on, Yun Xiao had truly lit the fuse. Brave ones, step forward! Cowards, step back! You only live once, so why fear death? Why not embark on a thrilling adventure? A glorious death surely beats a life of mediocrity.

    "Wait for it!" The demons, tears of blood in their eyes, roared in fury, their voices filled with pure malice, as they withdrew in anger.

    "If many human prodigies die in the War of Immortals, it''s all on your head!" the fifth princess snapped.

    "No problem, just pin all their deaths on me!" Yun Xiao replied with a sly grin.

    The entire assembly at the Violet Sky Immortal Pce was left dumbfounded.

    "Magnificent! Truly touching!" Sword Saint Yu Qian of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, shrouded in a ck cloak, gave Yun Xiao a sarcastic thumbs-up.

    "I must ask, sir, do you practice the sword or simply wield a cucumber?" Yun Xiao replied nonchntly.

    "Ha! Even the Sword Saint Sun wouldn''t dare speak to me in such a manner," Sword Saint Yu Qian scoffed coldly.

    "Lighten up a little! I''m just showing concern for my fellow man. I was afraid you mistook yourself for a dog chewing on a cucumber?" Yun Xiao remarked with a hint of amusement.

    "Ha!" Sword Saint Yu Qian chuckled, shaking his head. "You''re a character."

    "Look, just get lost," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "You''ve be quite the prize, but your head''s too rich for my blood. Your fiery words might stir your own heart, but to me? You''re just a naive pup barking in the wind," Sword Saint Yu Qian said, adjusting his hat. A glint of sword-light shone ominously from his shadowed eyes. "Soon you''ll grasp just how cruel reality can be."

    "I do hope you stick around long enough for me to see that," Yun Xiao responded with a smirk.

    Sword Saint Yu Qian shot back a cold, mocking smile and turned away, making his exit and shielding the two human princesses as he left.

    In the end, the bustling Spirit Treasure Pce stood silent. Only a band of humans remained, casting speechless nces towards Yun Xiao. Their fervor was reced by the weight of reality, and deep worries clouded their gazes.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, my apologies for today''s unexpected events. The Spirit Treasure Pce will be closed for three hours and will reopen thereafter. We seek your understanding," Zhao Xuanjian apologized to the attendees.

    "Understood."

    "Mister Zhao, maybe it''s best to discuss the current situation with the young one."

    "In this age, being hot-blooded alone won''t cut it."

    The crowd sighed in unison.

    "I''m honored by your confidence, but I can''t control him," Zhao Xuanjian confessed, shaking his head.

    With onest mixed nce at Yun Xiao, they bid their goodbyes, and the pce emptied in a sh.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Fifteen minutester, Yun Xiao and Zhao Xuanjian stood face to face in an opulent room atop the pce, the atmosphere thick with tension. Stray Dog crouched to the side, barely daring to breathe.

    "Was this orchestrated by Old Chen?" Zhao Xuanjian inquired earnestly.

    "No! My actions had nothing to do with the Chen n," Yun Xiao asserted.

    "So, from the moment you asked me for that Saint Sword Ring, you nned to entice and kill the Peacock Prince? Your father-inw wasn''t involved?" Zhao Xuanjian stared, dumbfounded, at the audacious young man before him.

    "Exactly," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Have youpletely given up on this world?" Zhao asked, a hint of sadness in his voice.

    "I follow the Heavenly Dao. Men can die, but their spirit must never waver!" Yun Xiao dered.

    "The problem is... even if you just killed that Peacock Prince, your father-inw could protect you on the grounds of a duel to the death. But desecrating his corpse in public? You''ve pped the face of everyone promoting peace between humans and demons! No matter how eloquent you are, or how you cling to the excuse of avenging a wronged spirit, this changes the game for the higher-ups. It''s awkward for everyone." Zhao Xuanjian sighed. "Kid, when we''re the underdogs, we can''t give our enemies an inch or a reason to rally against us. The human race must fight only righteous battles. Otherwise, internal strife, deceivers, rampant traitors, and schemers are more than enough to drown us."

    "I know that! That''s why I said all of this was my personal choice! It has nothing to do with the Chen n or any of you. If trouble reallyes knocking, you can hand me over like those billion Sword Cultivators, offer a truce to the Demon Continent. I''m not afraid to die," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Don''t talk nonsense. Your father-inw and I aren''t from the Ye Royal Family." Zhao Xuanjian inhaled deeply, continuing, "The current issue is, if those demons decide to act shamelessly ande after you in the next few days, your father-inw will have a hard time justifying protecting you. How''s he supposed to stand against multiple Demon Emperors and 108 Saints on his own?"

    "It''s okay. To be frank, if you hand me over, it''ll solve the problem. I''ve humiliated their Demon Prince; I''d be satisfied even in death! But if I couldn''t insult him, living would be worse than dying," Yun Xiao countered.

    "Why couldn''t you have waited a few more years to humiliate him? You have so much potential!" Zhao Xuanjian eximed in exasperation.

    "A few years? I can''t even wait a day. If I hold a grudge but can''t act on it, what''s the point of a future?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    Zhao Xuanjian just stared, speechless.

    "Bro, you''re a true-blue Sword Cultivator," Stray Dog interjected with a grin, grinding his teeth, "At least to me, with that attitude, you could make it into the War of Immortals, right? ording to its rules, if someone dies, everyone has to ept it!"

    "Yes, indeed! Youngsters like you should just grow and thrive! Older folks like us should handle these matters... s," Zhao Xuanjian gazed at Yun Xiao, a pang of pity in his heart. He understood better than anyone the storm Yun Xiao would soon find himself in, caught between the might of both the Divine and Demon Continent. That was a force magnitudes beyondprehension.

    How would a mere young man in white robes survive, surrounded by countless powerful foes? How would he endure?

    "Uncle Zhao, all this talk doesn''t do much good. I''d prefer something more... tangible," Yun Xiao said, breaking into a smile.

    "What do you mean by that¡­?" Zhao Xuanjian asked with a jolt.

    "My father-inw once said..."

    Before Yun Xiao could finish, Zhao Xuanjian quickly interrupted, his eyes widening in rm. "You''d better keep that trap shut! Old Chen had a hard enough time raising a daughter. Don''t drag him deeper into this mess!"

    "Ahem." Yun Xiao grinned sheepishly, "Alright then, let me speak for myself. Uncle Zhao... how about handing over all the remaining Saint Sword Rings you have?"

    "Hand them over?!" Zhao Xuanjian stammered, bbergasted. "You''ve got some nerve! After ying the fool and snatching up all that loot from the Peacock Prince, you can''t scrounge up 30,000 Saint Stones?"

    "You have the audacity to say that? You ced secret bets on me, and the amount you won must have been astronomical!" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Nonsense! My Spirit Treasure Pce closed for over three hours today because of you! Today was supposed to be our best business day, and you''ve cost me a fortune! Not to mention, I still have to pay taxes to the Immortal Empire!" Zhao Xuanjian eximed, almost pained.

    "You think I''m a fool? The money you won from the bets is your personal wealth. The loss from the closure? That''s the Spirit Treasure Pce''s debt. Bottom line, you still profited," Yun Xiao ruthlessly pointed out.

    Zhao Xuanjian was dumbfounded. Stroking his beard, he finally shook his head, "There''s no such thing as a free lunch in this world. I can''t. It goes against my business principles."

    On hearing this, Yun Xiao unsheathed his Sword Soul, pointing at the Saint Realm Sword Ring on it. He smirked, "Well then, I''ll just head out to the main street and announce that you gifted me this Sword Ring. Naturally, everyone will assume that your Spirit Treasure Pce was behind the murder of the Peacock Prince. Sounds usible, right?"

    "..." Zhao Xuanjian''s eyes went wide.

 Chapter 168: Heavy Lies the Head That Bears the Crown

    Chapter 168: Heavy Lies the Head That Bears the Crown

    Zhao Xuanjian stared, bbergasted, at the young man in white. "You''re quite the looker, aloof and refined. So why does your soul seem so petty and quick to anger?" he remarked with disbelief.

    "Enough with the chitchat. Hand over the Saint Sword Rings," Yun Xiao quipped with a grin.

    "You''re robbing me!"

    "Call it what you will."

    Stray Dog burst intoughter, "Just ept it, Old Zhao!"

    "I''m afraid he''ll show off with a bunch of Saint Sword Rings!" Zhao Xuanjianmented, a grimace of worry on his face. What a brash move! How on earth did Chen Xi find such a character?

    And so, under Yun Xiao''s <em>encouragement</em>, Zhao Xuanjian reluctantly handed over the remaining three Saint Sword Rings from his inventory.

    "Judging by the Sword Rings alone, you now possess the greatest Sword Soul in all of history!"

    A Gxy grade Sword Soul adorned with four Saint Sword Rings!

    Yun Xiao already felt the terrifying demon magic from these Sword Rings. These magics amplified the Sword Soul''s destructive force, and they weren''t quite the same as the daoist spells he usually wielded. Regardless, they were ferociously powerful!

    "Daoist spells, Sword Rings, sword techniques¡­ I''ve mastered the best of the Heavenly Realm! Only my Sword Aura and cultivation can be improved!" Yun Xiao eximed. Both could be enhanced during the War of Immortals.

    Yun Xiao''s preparations for the War of Immortals were nearlyplete. Since arriving in the Heavenly Realm, from his marriage in the Chen Heavenly n, understanding the Sword Dao Monument, to his notable appearance in the Spirit Treasure Pce... all of it had transpired in just two or three days.

    The rise of the Creator Immortal was as swift as a bolt of lightning! It was merely twenty-something days since he had met Blue Star and Red Moon on his path to the heavens.

    And Zhao Xuanjian knew just how formidable Yun Xiao had been in the lower realms.

    "Uncle Zhao! The Heavenly Realm has many steady elders like you. What itcks is a reckless youth like me to shake things up! I''m willing to y this brainless role for humanity, and whatever the consequences, I''ll shoulder them!" Yun Xiao took a deep breath, confidence flooding his eyes.

    Zhao Xuanjian stared at the young man, emotions surging like waves within.

    "In this world, with you and our Empress, it''s truly a blessing for humanity," Zhao Xuanjian remarked with a touch of emotion.

    "I fear not the battles to death! I just hope that when I''m out there, spilling blood and fighting, there won''t be some so-called genius behind me, criticizing with cowardly intellect and bowing to the bigger picture. Evil techniques won''t deter me, but the ndering tongues of my own kind can truly pierce the heart..."

    Yun Xiao thought back to the days in the Cloud Nation. Back then, not a single soul believed in him. Yet, it was only because their perspectives were limited, blinded by the so-called Immortals. But here in the Heavenly Realm? Who had a narrow vision? Everyone was so darn clever. And because of their cleverness, they prioritized their own gains, ignoring the broader good of the realm. They¡¯d talk of high ideals one minute and then, shamelessly, stretch out their hands for gold the next. All while pretending to stand on some moral high ground, engaging in the lowest of deeds!

    Yun Xiao had long been firm in his conviction. "Having inherited the body and power of the Creator Immortal, the greatest transformation in eons, you expect me to hold back? I¡¯ve died once, for heaven''s sake! Now, seemingly Immortal, if I can''t live freely and fight fiercely, I might as well have stayed dead in Cloud Nation." He had traded a life for this destiny. What was wrong with being a bit reckless? Who said one had to endure insult and injury silently to be deemed smart?

    Yun Xiao and his soul beasts, one responsible for cultivation and wealth, the other for alchemy and support,plemented each other perfectly. Their bond? Deeper than brothers, reaching the skies. Yun Xiao''s fierce fights and bold actions earned cheers from Blue Star and Red Moon, praising his authenticity.

    The trio, inseparable, shared both life and death. If they had no objections, who dared raise a voice? Was intelligence measured in submission? Were brains only good for ttery?

    "Kill them all! Fight fiercely! You''re the Creator Immortal! The universe is your canvas. Who can you take down?" Blue Starughed.

    "We aren''t reborn as mere cats and dogs! Let''s not be so reserved!" Red Moon eximed.

    "Even though our support costs a pretty penny, possibly draining our pockets dry, money''s just a thing. We''ll earn it back," Blue Star cackled.

    "It¡¯s alright! Our boss is a money-making genius, sharper than a tack!" Red Moon added, already savoring the taste of the realm''s treasures. He wished Yun Xiao would hurry up and defeat more foes!

    After a period of silence, Zhao Xuanjian said, "Yun Xiao, I''ll escort you back to the Chen Heavenly Mansion. For the next two days, best keep your head low."

    "No problem." Yun Xiao nodded obediently this time.

    Together, they descended the stairs.

    "Uncle Zhao, do you reckon that Eternal Joy Demon Emperor might have me killed within these couple of days?" Yun Xiao inquired as they walked side by side.

    "There are three possibilities," Zhao Xuanjian responded.

    "Which three?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "Firstly, he might indeed try to kill you. It suggests that even among demons, a Demon Emperor would be ruthlessly vengeful. They''re brutes who can''t tolerate even the slightest offense. These demons might be powerful, but they''re not the sharpest tools in the shed," Zhao Xuanjian exined with utmost sincerity.

    Yun Xiao wiped a bead of sweat from his brow. "Feels like you''re throwing shade without naming names."

    "You caught that, huh?" Zhao Xuanjian replied with a hint of astonishment.

    Yun Xiao just gave him a look.

    Zhao Xuanjian chuckled and continued, "Secondly, he might not kill you. Instead, he''ll likely instruct those five thousand demon prodigies to torment you during the War of Immortals. This way, the Demon Continent could reim some pride. And the Demon Emperor avoids the criticism of bullying the weak. Quite the strategy."

    "That''s along the lines of what I figured," Yun Xiao remarked. "And the third possibility?"

    "Thirdly, he might still try to kill you within these couple of days. Heck, he might show up any moment now," Zhao Xuanjian said, his tone dropping to a chilling note.

    "Huh?" Yun Xiao looked baffled.

    "This third possibility implies the Demon Emperor knows of the first two and yet chooses to strike. It means he''s utterly fearless and holds the human race in contempt. He doesn''t care about human opinion or even fear our Divine Dawn Empress. He''s a beast, wild and fierce," Zhao Xuanjian said gravely.

    "Is there really any difference between the first and third then?" Yun Xiao asked, taken aback.

    "To reach the stature of a Demon Emperor, the first possibility is practically nonexistent," Zhao Xuanjian remarked, eyeing Yun Xiao deeply. He pped a reassuring hand on Yun Xiao''s shoulder. "Don''t worry. Our Divine Dawn Empress'' rise has sent tremors throughout the Demon Continent. Even a Demon Emperor wouldn''t act recklessly in the Heavenly Realm without just cause."

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao nodded in acknowledgment.

    "But if he truly intends to kill you." Zhao Xuanjian sighed. "Neither I nor your father-inw can protect you. In the eyes of such a being, you''re as fragile as a candle''s me, easily snuffed out with a mere breath."

    "Ah, well, I suppose I should count my blessings then," Yun Xiao remarked with a yful chuckle.

    Zhao Xuanjian, caught off guard by Yun Xiao''s carefree response, wore an expression of sheer bewilderment.

    Just then, the two of them stepped out of the Spirit Treasure Pce together.

    Outside the Spirit Treasure Pce, it was a veritable sea of humanity!

    Despite recent events, the ce still bustled with activity.

    "Yun Xiao has emerged!"

    All eyes turned to him in an instant.

    "Today, you''ve truly made a name for yourself in the Heavenly Realm," Zhao Xuanjian remarked, feeling a tad nostalgic. He clearly noticed the admiring gazes from the younger generation. It seemed that Yun Xiao had won over the majority of them.

    "Heroes have always been young at heart! Their fiery spirit is truly enviable," Zhao Xuanjian mused, recalling his own younger days alongside Old Chen, rising in the Heavenly Realm. Those were the days. Although he represented the Spirit Treasure Pce''s interests today and couldn''t openly support Yun Xiao, deep down, he admired the young man''s bravery.

    "Heavy lies the head that bears the crown." The fervent stares from the younger humans seemed to mold a crown of swords atop Yun Xiao''s head. There were, of course, still sneers and whispered jeers from a few corners¡ªthe inevitable chorus of naysayers¡ªbut they were the outliers, the dregs not worth mentioning.

    "The human race still has hope," Zhao Xuanjian said, warmth in his eyes. Every moment of perseverance over the years felt worth it. "I just hope this kid can survive."

    And as that hopeful thought crossed his mind¡­ Suddenly, an icy chill, cold enough to be lethal, surged through him. In an instant, the bright day was consumed by a frigid darkness.

    <em>HUM! </em>A massive, fan-shaped shadow cker than midnight engulfed a third of the sky. On that shadow, swirling mists of darkness writhed, emitting screams of agony. The once-bright Heavenly Realm seemed to plummet into the underworld.

    "What the..." Every human present, cloaked in that shadow, went pale, their brows dripping with cold sweat. They looked up, and oppressive dark clouds loomed, with demons dominating the scene! A chilling crimson light descended from those leaden clouds, targeting Yun Xiao directly, bathing him in a glow as though he''d been drenched in fresh blood. It felt like the world''s air supply had been cut off.

    For a split second, Yun Xiao felt like he was standing at the very gates of the underworld, with countless swords aimed at his back and a yawning abyss filled with wing spirits before him.

    Many, under the shadow, fell to the ground in terror, holding their breaths. Their throats felt like they''d been gripped by a blood-soaked w, and they were rendered speechless.

    "Eternal Joy..." Only a few chilling whispers, toxic as venom, rippled through the crowd.

    "The third possibility!" Zhao Xuanjian''s face drained of color. He quickly turned and clutched Yun Xiao, summoning a violet storm and dashing back towards the Spirit Treasure Pce. He''d said he wouldn¡¯t protect him, but in the end, he did. However, no one believed he could fend off the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor.

    <em>SCREECH! </em>A sharp, piercing sound echoed, causing many to clutch their bleeding ears. Above, within the shadow, a jet-ck beam momentarily tore through the space, resembling the most ferocious sword in the world, aimed straight at Yun Xiao''s forehead. A lethal strike!

    This made it clear that not all viins follow the usual script¡­ Two days? Eternal Joy had dominated for ages, but he wasn¡¯t going to wait. When that dark beam sounded, everyone knew Yun Xiao was doomed. Sorrow began to settle in. Was the enemy''s brazenness not proof that the mighty exterior of the Heavenly Realm hid a crumbling core, easily dominated by outsiders? Shadows of death spread across thend.

    Gazing at the dark silhouette blotting out the sky, the sheer murderous intent made it impossible for Yun Xiao to catch his breath. He felt a coldness seep into him, sensing the crushing dominance of a superior force. Yet, his face betrayed not a hint of fear.

    In the vast universe, what did Yun Xiao have to fear, even from the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, when he was the Creator Immortal reborn?

    "This time around, I probably won''t need to call upon Blue Star or Red Moon," Yun Xiao mused. Their assistance came with quite the hefty price tag. A penny saved was a penny earned!

    Chen Xi ascended to the throne of the Immortal Empire at the tender age of fifteen. Surely, she wasn''t just a pretty face. "She just needs the right opportunity to make her mark," Yun Xiao thought, "I''ll create one for her!"

    As the thought formed, a shadow, protective and familiar, emerged. Yun Xiao had sensed this presence long ago, someone even mightier than Zhao Xuanjian!

    Just as the deadly ck beam was about to strike, a green wine jug materialized out of thin air, blocking the menacing attack.

    <em>BAM! </em>A thunderous sh ensued, unleashing turbulent waves. Both Yun Xiao and Zhao Xuanjian were sent flying, but miraculously unharmed. In the aftermath, a tall, bald man in a tattered green robe appeared before Yun Xiao, sessfully thwarting the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''s assault.

    "Drunkard?" Zhao Xuanjian eximed, astounded.

    "Who''s he?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "A renowned cultivator from ournd, known to walk his path alone, unaffiliated with any power," Zhao Xuanjian replied, his voice tinged with confusion. "Why would he save you?"

    Drunkard''s surprise entrance stirred a buzz among the crowd. All eyes were fixed in admiration on this brave man who dared to challenge the might of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor.

    "He doesn''t belong to any faction?" Yun Xiao quipped, a grin spreading across his face. "I''ve got a hunch I know who he''s really here for."

    "It seems the Divine Dawn is rallying a formidable force," Yun Xiao mused, excitement bubbling up. "The bigger she dreams, the more coins I can pocket!

    "I knew she was up to something grand, but summoning a lone wolf like Jiutu to defy the likes of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor?" Yun Xiao shook his head in disbelief.

    With Drunkard now in y, Yun Xiao felt even more secure. He knew that if he acted with integrity, there would always be those willing to stand by his side.

    "Yun Xiao, as strong as Drunkard is, he''s no match for the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor. We need to leave!" Zhao Xuanjian urged.

    An uneasy tension hung in the air. With the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''s initial attack thwarted, his fury was bound to surge, and his wrath would be relentless.

    "Heh heh heh¡­" That icyughter wafted from the looming ck mist above, slithering like a sharp de over everyone''s heart. An even more potent intent to kill enveloped Yun Xiao and the Drunkard.

    "You two, prepare for hell." The voice of the Demon Emperor, chilling to the bone, echoed in their ears.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A shadow, vast and overwhelming, began to descend upon them. Dark winds swirled around Yun Xiao. Buildings crumbled, the ground cracked open, and screams filled the air. The central streets of the Heavenly Realm descended into chaos. A demon, brazenly flexing its might. What was to be done?

    With azy yawn and stretch, the Drunkard took a swig from his green sk and crushed a tiny ball of thunder in his hand. A streak of lightning shot straight to the sky. Suddenly, everything went still.

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao snapped his head towards the direction of the Divine Dawn Pce.

    A crimson bolt of lightning soared into the sky.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In an instant, countless blood-red lightning bolts erupted like furious dragons, forming a vast, sanguine web that nketed two-thirds of the sky.

    The roars of the blood-red lightning dragons shook the very foundations of the heavens. Their overwhelming aura overshadowed the Demon Emperor''s malevolence, turning the entire Heavenly Realm into a world of crimson thunder.

    And at the center of this sprawling web of red lightning, a resplendent woman draped in a golden-red dragon robe and adorned with a crown of nine pearls levitated above all. Her robe''s train billowed for hundreds of feet, surrounded by electric dragons, crackling with energy.

    Her eyes shone like two suns, and where she looked, lightning rumbled. With hair that seemed to cascade for miles, the regal empress parted her lips, her voice thundering like a barrage of storms. "Which wretched creature dares to run wild in MY Heavenly Realm?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 169: Long Live the Empress!

    Chapter 169: Long Live the Empress!

    "Our Empress!!" When crimson lightning obscured the sun, countless cultivators of the Heavenly Realm cried out, overwhelmed with emotion.

    Dark clouds pressed down, transforming instantly into blood-red bolts that dominated the world! This endless surge of scarlet lightning made the entire Heavenly Realm appear as an inmed eyeball, livid with rage.

    "Your Majesty!" Zhao Xuanjian''s anxious demeanor vanished, reced by a look of joy and relief. His faith in the Divine Dawn Empress was evident.

    Yun Xiao had once been a sovereign too! But the moment he first beheld Chen Xi descending in the grandeur of an Empress, he truly grasped that a mortal monarch and the Empress of the Immortal Empire were in entirely different leagues.

    Lightning roared across the Heavenly Realm, its bloody hues reaching for miles. The fluttering golden-red imperial robe, the dazzling nine-pearled crown, and those striking eyes shing like lightning and mes¡ªall exuded raw power and dominance.

    A single utterance, "Who dares?" paralleled Yun Xiao''s sentiments.

    At her words, a tremor coursed through everyone.

    "The Empress is furious!"

    "Does this mean¡­?"

    Just as anxiety permeated the air, the whole Heavenly Realm quaked!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>A zing array of lightning and fire suddenly emerged, sprawling across millions of miles, instantaneously dividing the spherical Heavenly Realm into two!

    Belowy the streets of the Heavenly Realm, majestic pces, and innumerable cultivators. Above were clouds, open sky, and both the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor and the Divine Dawn Empress.

    <em>HUM! </em>Manyyers of the lightning me array appeared, entirely separating the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor from the streets of the Heavenly Realm. Of course, it didn''t touch a single hair on Yun Xiao.

    "The Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array!" Another round of astounded shouts echoed, sweeping the capital of the Immortal Empire like a tempest.

    Born from the Primordial Bell, the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array was an ancient defensive formation, which only the current Divine Dawn Empress could activate.

    The tradition in the Immortal Empire, that ringing the Primordial Bell of the Heavenly Realm granted one the throne, was tied to the crucial strategic significance of this array. With this array at one''smand, the Heavenly Realm was invincible.

    "Has she truly activated it?" Yun Xiao''s eyes zed, "She''s truly seizing the moment to assert her dominance, isn''t she?" He wasn''t the only one thinking along those lines. Under the protection of this lightning-fire array, all cultivators of the Heavenly Realm felt their skin tingle with apprehension.

    <em>BOOM!</em> The moment the Primordial Array activated, a deafening roar echoed as the endless crimson thunderbolts charged violently towards the dark, crescent-shaped veil.

    "Divine Dawn! Are you serious?" A chilling ck peacock, bathed in dark smoke, stared intently at the approaching of crimson lightning with its blood-red eyes.

    <em>CRASH CRASH CRASH! </em>Before its words even settled, myriad thunder dragons of crimson hue plunged into the ck mist. The collision of blood-hued electricity and dark smoke produced explosive shocks of ck and red. The deafening thunderp swept across the Heavenly Realm!

    Standing beneath the turbulent matrix of lightning, the view was obscured. All one could see were electric serpents shing in the sky and the roars of thunder dragons shaking the heavens.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The endless crimson electrical suddenly condensed into a thunderous orb with a diameter of several hundred feet. It exploded instantly, reducing strands of ck mist to powder.

    "Ignorant girl! Try your insolence again!" The ck peacock screeched sharply. Transformed to its original form, its vast wings, which blocked out the sky, were unfurled, casting a ck me across the heavens.

    "It was you who was insolent first!" A thunderous roar once again shook the Heavenly Realm.

    <em>BOOM!</em> In the distance above, a figure in a flowing dragon robe pointed her finger. A thousand-foot-long bolt of thunder, entwined with burning blood fire, descended with a brilliance that illuminated the entire Heavenly Realm threefold.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Such a massive thunder strike shattered severalyers of the ck peacock''s dark magical mist and struck its back. Billions of crimson currents instantly flowed across the peacock, seeping into its flesh through the gaps in its feathers.

    <em>CRASH CRASH CRASH! </em>Blood exploded from the ck peacock, and where the thunderous mes passed, its flesh charred and burst. What was once an intact body now resembled charred coal, emitting thick, ck smoke, filling the air with the smell of burnt flesh.

    <em>HUM!</em> The massive bird''s body crashed from the sky,nding on the Primordial Array of the Heavenly Realm, causing continuous tremors and resounding booms. With the array activated, countless lightning mes surged again, heading straight for the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor.

    "You!" The ck peacock, its eyes emanating a malevolent, blood-red glow, could only soar up, escaping the range of the Primordial Array. Anyone could see it was wounded. And not just a minor wound. The key was, it had been constantly on the receiving end of blows.

    "Her Majesty is so powerful!"

    Under that spectacle, every cultivator in the Heavenly Realm lost their minds! It had been over a year since she''d taken action! Many recalled the days when she ascended the throne of the Immortal Empire, merely a little girl back then. And now? A radiant young maiden stood before them.

    That once little girl had defeated the former Emperor, Ye Qingtian, before the awestruck masses. The visual impact of that moment had set the world aze, driving countless cultivators mad with admiration.

    Everyone spected that after her year-long hiatus, she''d be even mightier. But who could''ve imagined she''d suppress even the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor with such dominance?

    From that moment, the hearts of countless cultivators ignited with renewed faith and confidence.

    "Long live the Empress!" In an instant, myriad people knelt in unison, fervor lighting their eyes, their spirits set aze with passion.

    "This is one of the five great Demon Emperors of the Demon Continent!" Zhao Xuanjian remarked, his beard quivering. Why would an outsider like Drunkard serve her? The answer became clear.

    "Blue Star, she''s still hiding some of her power, isn''t she?" Yun Xiao remarked, likely the only one unsurprised by all this. Upon their first meeting, Blue Star had mentioned this fearsome woman had sealed away a terrifying force. Today''s disy was, to him, rather expected. During their joint cultivation, Yun Xiao had glimpsed her incredible internal power and saw its depths clearly.

    "Yes," Blue Star nodded.

    "Looking at it now, she''s steadier than I am. If I had her capabilities, I''d have stormed the Demon Continent ages ago," Yun Xiao said.

    "Your path is different from hers. She''s an Empress, needing to oversee the bigger picture. You''re a lone wolf, your edge needs sharpening. Nurture that killing intent," Blue Star chuckled.

    Different paths, but... what a pairing!

    Different journeys, same destination.

    "The moment the War of Immortals kicks off and you two monsters enter, those prodigious demons can check in, but they won''t be checking out," Blue Star teased.

    The Demon Continent couldn''t handle the humiliation of a Demon Prince''s death? What tears would they shed during the War of Immortals?

    With the Divine Dawn Empress now taking action, it was a clear statement. Yun Xiao knew, under her lead, he could go all out.

    Exciting! Pure, unadulterated exhration! Unfortunately, some folks just loved being party poopers. Witnessing the joy of the human race was more painful to them than if someone had murdered their parents. And so entered new yers!

    <em>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </em>Suddenly, a flurry of figures stormed out from the Heavenly Realm''s protective barrier, positioning themselves defiantly in front of the Divine Dawn Empress.

    "Your Majesty, please halt!" A heart-wrenching cry interrupted the ongoing battle.

    The crowd was taken aback, eyes transfixed. Among the interlopers were dozens of Demon Saints, numerous high-ranking officials from the Immortal Empire, including the Minister of Rites Han Jingli, the Grand Temple Sage, and the previous emperor from the Ancestral Temple, Ye Qingtian...

    It appeared that the majority of the Immortal Empire''s influential figures had arrived!

    With these dignitaries forming a protective barrier, the Demon Saints fell in line before the sinister ck peacock. Taking a momentary breather, the ck peacock lifted its elongated neck, its eyes burning with resentment and fixed on the Divine Dawn Empress.

    It had been humiliated! Not only physically but also in its reputation! A young girl had beaten it senseless in front of a massive audience. Every demon in the Heavenly Realm was simultaneously furious and humiliated, their eyes burning crimson, teeth bared. How could this affront be resolved to the demons'' satisfaction?

    "Your Majesty!" the most respected and elderly Grand Temple Sage pleaded with a face full of distress. "Please, stop this! If this continues, we''re headed for a catastrophe!"

    "A catastrophe?" The young woman in the dragon robe floated in the air, surrounded by thunder, her face obscured.

    All that the crowd could sense was her overwhelming presence.

    "The Five Great Demon Emperors, the 108 Demon Saints, and the millions of demons from the Demon Continent will not let this go," the Grand Temple Sage whispered, casting a fearful nce at the ck peacock. His words sent a chill down the spines of many who knew the power of the demons. A hush descended upon the realm.

    Suddenly, the ck peacock let out a piercing, eerieugh, sending shivers down spines. "The Grand Temple Sage is exaggerating¡­" he said as mysterious mes healed its wounds at a visibly rapid rate.

    It looked up at the Divine Dawn Empress. "I''ve long admired your unparalleled talent. At just fifteen, you''re unmatched. I''ve yearned to discuss our arts. Today presented the perfect opportunity for a friendly exchange. As they say, seeing is believing. Divine Dawn Empress, you truly are the greatest prodigy the human race has ever seen."

    The crowd exchanged incredulous looks. Wasn''t it obvious that the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, aiming for unbridled dominance and seeking vengeance for its in son, had tried to stir the pot in the Heavenly Realm, only to get a thrashing from the Empress?

    The Grand Temple Sage, visibly flustered, eximed, "Of course, my oversight!" He quickly gave a respectful bow to the Divine Dawn Empress and the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor.

    People were left wondering, was the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor genuinely conceding? Not quite! He was merely saving face for the moment. Other Demon Emperors were soon to arrive, along with the entirety of the 108 Demon Saints. If he didn¡¯t speak up now, who could predict what this fiery fifteen-year-old would do next? The current humiliation, the current rage, the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor would remember it all.

    All eyes inevitably turned to the Divine Dawn Empress. Would she let it go after this disy of power? The entire Heavenly Realm was holding its breath.

    "Your Majesty..." The Grand Temple Sage looked at her with hope.

    "Indeed, it was a friendly spar," the Divine Dawn Empress replied with a smirk. But then, with a suddenugh and a twinkle in her eyes that resembled lightning, she said, "However, the mighty Eternal Joy Demon Emperor doesn''t seem so impressive."

    Hearing the first part of her statement, the Grand Temple Sage officials from the Immortal Empire sighed in relief. But thetter part contorted their faces. It was a public p in the face. Sharp and spicy!

    The Heavenly Realm was silent. Everyone exchanged nces, secretly relishing the moment. They had been oppressed by these demons for a lifetime; how satisfying was today''s retaliation! The only word to describe the feeling was exhrating!

    However, the Grand Temple Sage and Ye Qingtian, among others, couldn''t seem to enjoy it. They wore expressions of deep concern. Though Ye Qingtian remained silent, as the former Emperor, he was the true backbone of the group. His gaze was weighty throughout the event.

    After the deafening silence, the Grand Temple Sage sheepishly chuckled. "If that''s the case and the sparring is over, I shall resume hosting our demon guests."

    "Ensure they are treated well on my behalf," the Divine Dawn Empress instructed.

    "As you wish!" The Grand Temple Sage replied, then turned to the ck peacock, "Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, after you." All he wanted was to put an end to this chaos.

    The Divine Dawn Empress achieved her goal, significantly boosting the Empire''s morale. A collective sigh of relief echoed among the masses.

    "So, Yun Xiao remains unscathed!" Eyes locked onto the young man, disbelief evident in every gaze.

    "Could he have foreseen that the Empress would seize the moment to assert her dominance over the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, shielding him from harm?"

    "It¡¯s mere coincidence! He''s all brawn and no brains!" someone muttered under their breath, careful not to speak too loudly for fear of retribution.

    The united will of the Empire was undeniable and overwhelming.

    "This chapter concludes here. Next up, the War of Immortals," Yun Xiao resolved internally. However, even he couldn''t predict the sudden twist thaty ahead.

    "Halt!" A voice, filled with boundless rage, echoed in the distance. The cultivators on the Heavenly Realm''s streets were taken aback, all eyes darting to the source.

    A woman d in blue official robes, transformed into a beam of light, speeding downward. With eyes filled with tears and vengeance, she knelt before the Divine Dawn Empress. "Your Majesty, please uphold justice for the millions of souls!" The kneeling figure was the Minister of War Qi Lan.

    "What''s happened?" The Divine Dawn Empress''s voice was gravely low.

 Chapter 170: Eternal Joy, Eternal Rest!

    Chapter 170: Eternal Joy, Eternal Rest!

    Qi Lan looked up, her voice tinged with sorrow and anger. "Below in the Martial Realm, the capital of the Fan Nation was decimated overnight. Millions lost their souls!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The news hit like a sledgehammer to the heart.

    "What..." In front of the Spirit Treasure Pce, Stray Dog''s eyes rolled back. He stumbled backward, blood trickling from his eyes, and copsed.

    The Heavenly Realm¡¯s popce was deathly pale. An eerie silence enveloped all.

    "Who did this¡­?¡± With the Divine Dawn Empress''s three words, the heavens trembled.

    "Thousands witnessed a ck peacock soaring across the skyst night!" Qi Lan dered, her re fixed on the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor.

    "What?!" Countless gazes converged on the ck peacock.

    Deep down, everyone knew of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''s penchant for ughter. Especially during the era when the Ye Royal family ruled the Immortal Empire, he descended whenever he pleased without any forewarning.

    Ever since the Divine Dawn Empress had ascended the throne, she''d issued an imperial edict. No matter who sowed chaos in the lower realms, no matter how far away, she vowed to cut them down, ensuring their lineage faced retribution for millennia.

    After this decree, the realms indeed experienced an eerie tranquility, and the Demon Continent stayed dormant for several years. The Divine Dawn Empress'' benevolence was known to all.

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    Butst night''s incident seemed a carefully crafted provocation. To still consider them a bunch of kind, simple-hearted demon friends after this would surely make one''s ancestors turn in their graves!

    "A million souls!" Yun Xiao''s heart skipped a beat, his mind submerged in a tidal wave of rage.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In an instant, the sky above was filled with countless streaks of blood-red thunder, sweeping across the heavens.

    "Without evidence, d¡ª" a voice boomed, but before it could finish, they were sted away.

    A bolt of blood-red lightning streaked across the sky, sending both Immortal Empire officials and Demon Saints hurtling through the air.

    The young woman in the dragon robe materialized atop the ck peacock.

    "Divine Dawn, do you like this gift of a million souls?" The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor cawed with gleeful madness, pping its wings, preparing to flee.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Suddenly, a pale, tiger-striped bell descended from the heavens¡ªthe Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell.

    <em>DONG! </em>The tiger-striped bell, pulsating with the might of thunder, mmed onto the ck peacock with the weight of a million mountains.

    "You!" The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''s face twisted in agony. Its once proud countenance contorted as its wings broke and blood sprayed under the crushing force of the bell. But it wasn''t over. In a heartbeat, the bell pinned the ck peacock directly onto a matrix of lightning and mes.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The entire Heavenly Realm trembled.

    <em>CRACKLE CRACKLE CRACKLE! </em>The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''s body and head were trapped inside the bell, its dark feathers protruding outside. A myriad of thunderbolts and mes burned within the bell, roasting the peacock as if it were in a cauldron. This injury was far more severe than any before.

    "Divine Dawn! Beware of your recklessness!" the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor screeched, fighting ferociously. The Heavenly Realm''s Bell shivered under its power, showing signs of breaking, a testament to its strength.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Before its cries could subside, the young girl, robed in a garment resembling swirling thunderstorms, appeared behind it. Her magic summoned an arm made of blood-red lightning, over a hundred feet in length. A colossal hand that shadowed the skies!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Her eyes sparked with lightning, her face void of emotion. Swinging that arm, she opened her fingers and abruptly seized one of the ck peacock''s dark tail feathers.

    "Release me!" The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor trembled, its face paling.

    "Your Majesty, think thrice! There''s still time to reconsider!" the Grand Temple Sage shouted in despair.

    "Cease, or more will perish!" another voice, righteous and cold, boomed.

    Their pleas barely registered when furious shouts erupted from below.

    "Annihte this contemptible demon!"

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"

    These were the voices of the Immortal Empire!

    "Divine Dawn!" The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''s warning scream pierced the air as its wings battered the insides of the Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell.

    Amidst the watchful eyes, the young girl remained indifferent, god-like.

    <em>CRACKLE CRACKLE CRACKLE!</em>

    <em>SPUTTER!</em> With a swift pull, blood spurted everywhere!

    The blood-red lightning arm had forcefully yanked out a blood-streaked peacock feather!

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    After witnessing this, the Grand Temple Sage coughed up blood. There were coldughs, stunned silences, and exultant cheers from the crowd.

    "Ha... ha... ha..." In the throes of pain, the Eternal Joy Demon Emperorughed, a wild, unrestrainedughter. "Excellent! Perfect!"

    Perfect? The Divine Dawn Empress didn¡¯t stop. This time, her blood-red lightning arm gripped a handful of tail feathers.

    <em>SPUTTER SPUTTER SPUTTER! </em>Blood sprayed everywhere! One after another, feathers were ripped out! All ny-nine of them!

    The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, which had started off smirking, could only howl and scream by the end. Drenched in its own blood, its agonized state was a sight many would remember for a lifetime.

    This was one of the Five Great Demon Emperors of the Demon Continent! Yet here he was, pinned by a fifteen-year-old girl and plucked bare as a chicken!

    The officials from the Immortal Empire, including Grand Temple Sage, watched in horror. Their heads swam in a cold sweat, eyes bulging out of sockets,menting the heavens and cursing the earth. Their fingers trembled with shock.

    "It''s over! Utterly over!" The Grand Temple Sage''s vision blurred, almost fainting from the sight.

    <em>WHACK! </em>The final feather, blood-eyed and elegant, was ruthlessly plucked by the Divine Dawn Empress! From that moment on, the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor was leftpletely bald and bloodied.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The clock of the Heavenly Realm opened. A blood-red lightning arm reached inside, seizing the ck peacock''s elongated neck and forcibly dragging him out.

    By this point, the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor looked pitiful, burned to a crisp, eyes bloodshot, wings broken, and legs shattered. Pitiful? That was an understatement.

    "Heh heh heh..." Despite his dire state, the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor still managed a coldugh. "You''re impressive. But throughout history, humans are mostly cowards and wastes. Only you stand tall, a single girl. You can''t bear the weight of this world on your own. Ha ha ha..." he cackled maliciously.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Another titanic arm of thunder grasped the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''s neck. Between the two immense arms, the girl in the dragon robe, her blood-red hair dancing wildly, radiated with an aura of fierce thunder.

    "Whether I can bear it isn''t for you to decide. That''s for me to say!" With that, her eyes focused intently.

    "Your Majesty, no!" The Grand Temple Sage dropped to his knees in a panic, banging his head repeatedly on the ground, though it was unclear for whom.

    However, just as he knelt, the girl in the sky let out a fierce growl. Both thunderous arms tightened around the ck peacock''s neck.

    "Survival of the fittest! Only the strong shall thrive! We demons will never perish!" The ck peacock raised its head,ughing with frenzied fervor. But as itsst word echoed, the two thunderous arms pulled apart with a grotesque ripping sound.

    <em>RIIIP! </em>The head of the ck peacock was brutally torn off by those thunderous arms! Trachea, esophagus, and spine all came out, attached to the head, as it was ripped from the body. Blood sprayed everywhere, drenching the barriers of the Heavenly Realm. The sizzling sounds filled the air as the blood was scorched by lightning.

    The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''sughter was abruptly cut short.

    Above the heavens, the Divine Dawn Empress, with one thunderous arm holding the head and the other dragging its carcass, shone brilliantly, as if a true goddess had descended upon the Heavenly Realm.

    With an ear-splitting roar, the entire Heavenly Realm erupted into jubnt cheers.

    "Long live our Empress, forever and ever!"

    The tidal wave of voices, as overwhelming as a tsunami, echoed again and again throughout the realm. Below the formation of the Heavenly Realm, countless cultivators, faces flushed and eyes tearing up with passion, clenched their fists and shouted at the top of their lungs for the Divine Dawn Empress.

    It was a moment destined for the annals of human history. With just one hand, she tore apart the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor¡ªa feat so remarkable, it would leave an indelible mark on history.

    "A once-in-an-age divine maiden, unparalleled in her glory!"

    The fervent cries resonated through the markets of the Heavenly Realm. Millions of demons roared in fury, while countless humans cried tears of joy. Justice for the souls of a million wronged! If such a deep-seated grudge wasn''t avenged immediately, would the hatred dissipate in a few years, lost in the annals of time?

    "Little sister, old man..." Stray Dog knelt on the ground, looking up at those ny-nine feathers, upon which the souls were ascending towards reincarnation, his tears streaming down. Those tears, when paired with the deep-seated enmity against the demons, could only run deeper.

    And such suffering was merely the tip of the iceberg for the human race of thisnd since their defeat. How many more suffered in the unseen corners? Who could truly understand their pain?

    After this event, all humans in thend knew who their beacon against cmity was. They gazed at her for what felt like an eternity. Her silhouette etched into their hearts, never to be forgotten for as long as they lived.

    Then, as the formation of the Heavenly Realm opened, her graceful figure became even more apparent to all.

    "Our Empress!"

    The masses continued their fervent shouts.

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    "Yun Xiao." The Divine Dawn Empress, high above the heavens, suddenly lowered her head. Amid the vast crowd, she sought out a solitary white figure.

    With a casual release of her thunderous grip, a peacock''s severed head and a headless gigantic corpse plummeted from the sky,nding with a thud on the street right before Yun Xiao''s very eyes.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 171: Humans and Demons Can Coexist, But Divine Dawn Must Die!

    Chapter 171: Humans and Demons Can Coexist, But Divine Dawn Must Die!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The cobblestones on the main street burst apart, sttering with ck peacock blood! In that instant, a hushed silence fell upon the crowd. Eyes wide, they shifted their gaze between Yun Xiao and the Divine Dawn Empress, hearts pounding. "Could it be...?"

    The luminance of The Divine Dawn Empress'' eyes bathed Yun Xiao''s white robes. She asked, "Tell me, if people believe you''ve erred by openly consuming the bones and assimting the flesh of a Demon Prince, what should you do?"

    Yun Xiao lifted his head, his eyes ame, and dered, "I''d consume the demon bones of his father and his backers too! I''d forge their bodies into a Sword Ring to adorn my Sword Soul! I''dsh their corpses night and day to silence those petty gossipers!"

    This audacious promation made many a heart skip a beat. Upon hearing this, the twin princesses of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire plopped down, as if pped repeatedly. Their faces flushed, but their defiant eyes seemed to scream¡ªI don¡¯t care, he might be senseless, but I¡¯m the clever one!

    From the heavens, the Divine Dawn Empress nodded in approval. "Well said! This wretched corpse is yours to disgrace with your Sword Soul daily. May it appease the myriad departed souls and warn malevolent demons. As long as your Sword Soul exists, it will serve as a reminder to our demon friends. The people of the Divine Continent and the Immortal Empire are our line in the sand. Anyone crossing it will pay dearly." Her promation shook the Heavenly Realm to its core.

    Yun Xiao raised his sword to the sky, "May my Sword Soul shine as a beacon for generations! I pledge my life to safeguard the well-being of the Divine Continent!" Holding his sword, he saluted the souls, finally free, dispersing among the clouds from the ny-nine tail feathers.

    Once upon a time, like them, Yun Xiao''s soul had been wronged and had sought the heavens. He knew. They surely witnessed everything that transpired. Bringing sce to the departed was the most fundamental creed of a cultivator. Farewell.

    <em>THUD! </em>His sword plunged to the ground, the intent to kill, palpable.

    With a flourish, Yun Xiao ignored the myriad of onlookers. The young man, gripping his sword, stepped on the corpse of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor. Without uttering a word, he thrust the de deep into the demon''s marrow.

    "Stop!" From the Grand Temple, a host of officials from the Immortal Empire, led by Grand Temple Sage and Han Jingli, approached the Divine Dawn Empress with sorrowful faces.

    "Your Majesty," the Grand Temple Sage cried, tears streaming down, "By killing the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, you''ve vited the peace treaty between humans and demons. This grave mistake,bined with this young man''s desecration, might plunge our entire Divine Continent into irreversible doom!" The old man''s voice trembled with emotion.

    ¡°Vite the treaty?¡± the Divine Dawn Empress chuckled. She nced at the red-eyed Demon Saints from the Demon Continent and remarked, ¡°Let¡¯s not twist the truth here. The peace between humans and demons was a mutual agreement. Yet, this Eternal Joy Demon Emperor slinked into the lower realms and wreaked havoc on innocents. He''s the one who broke the peace! In ordance with the treaty, I executed him, removing a blight for our demon friends, and restored righteousness to the Demon Continent. So, where have I gone wrong?¡±

    ¡°The Empress is right! The fault lies with the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor!¡±

    Voices of outrage roared across the Heavenly Realm.

    Those furious Demon Saints, like the Ape Saint, were stunned into silence by the Empress''s words. What peace treaty? Before the Empress ascended, they ran amok in the lower realms with no consequences. Clearly, the interpretation of peace was in the hands of the powerful.

    ¡°Such parasites like the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor only bring shame to our vast demon friends. I will exin the matter to the other four Demon Emperors. Our peace is an unstoppable historical force, undeterred by such vermin,¡± the Divine Dawn Empress concluded, smiling at the Demon Saints. ¡°I assume esteemed beings like yourselves wouldn¡¯t associate with this kind of lowlife? Such a pest should¡¯ve been eliminated by both our races. My apologies for acting impulsively.¡±

    She then turned to Mu Tianshi, ¡°Aren¡¯t you arranging a feast at the Grand Temple tofort our demon guests?¡±

    Mu Tianshi looked down to find Yun Xiao had already absorbed the demon bones and was forming his Sword Ring.

    The crowd of demons remained silent. With the four great Demon Emperors absent, they had no choice.

    The Ape Saint, suppressing his towering rage, loudly said, ¡°Thank you, Divine Dawn Empress, for alleviating the concerns of our demon race. We have no way to repay you but promise to give our best in the War of Immortals, hoping to bring a smile to your face.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m eagerly looking forward to it,¡± the Divine Dawn Empress nodded.

    And so, Mu Tianshi led the high-ranking demons away.

    At that moment, a gleaming, fearsome ck Sword Ring materialized in Yun Xiao¡¯s hand. The lingering soul of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor was still present, fiercely howling in his grasp, a sight both ferocious and pitiful.

    Two Sword Rings now dangled on Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul. One, a Fox n Saint Sword Ring, and the other, a pristine Sword Ring from the Peacock Prince.

    ¡°Wishing to reunite with your son?¡± Yun Xiao sneered. Wishful thinking! He removed the Peacock Prince''s Sword Ring. He had long since served his use! He stored away the white Wind Fire Sword Ring, then took out the three other Saint Sword Rings he had collected earlier.

    <em>HUM HUM HUM! </em>In a session of swift movements, three additional Saint Sword Rings materialized around Yun Xiao''s sword. Before setting out, he had stripped them from his Sword Soul. But now that he was facing Demon Emperors, why would he bother with the pretenses? There was no need to hide his power any longer.

    He now boasted four Saint Sword Rings on his sword and one Demon Emperor Sword Ring clenched tightly in his hand. Then, with fervent determination, Yun Xiao infused the Demon Emperor''s Blood Crystal directly into his sword. The strongest and fiercest of all Blood Crystals erupted, forming a massive ck-med Sword Ring that enveloped Yun Xiao''s sword, causing the de''s dark mist to churn violently.

    Five Sword Rings in total! The Heavenly Realm was in an uproar once again. Following the Divine Dawn Empress''s disy, countless shocked eyes now shifted to Yun Xiao. Whispers and gasps swept through the crowd.

    "What grade would five Sword Rings ssify under?"

    "Is that still a Sword Emperor or something greater?"

    The buzzing continued.

    "What!" Sword Saint Yu Qian from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire looked as if his eyes might pop out of their sockets.

    "Uncle Yu! Surely, he and the Empress are headed for a dire end, right?" the fifth princess asked, her voice trembling.

    "Don''t fret," Sword Saint Yu Qian replied, "They most certainly are."

    The twin sisters exchanged a relieved nce, reassuring themselves of their superior insight.

    "250yers of Sword Aura..." However, Sword Saint Yu QIan''s eyes conveyed deep concern as he observed the scene.

    The various Demon Saints had departed, and for the moment, the Heavenly Realm seemed tranquil. But everyone knew that an even more explosive confrontation lurked on the horizon.

    All eyes were on the young man in white. With a Demon Emperor Sword Ring adorning his de, he had undoubtedly be the enemy of the entire demon race. His very presence was an affront and humiliation to every demon.

    "While he has certainly attracted a great deal of animosity from the demons," someone mused, "why did the Empress add fuel to the fire? Can he truly withstand the uing challenges in the Heavenly Realm''s War of Immortals?"

    <em>SNAP!</em> Just like that, every ounce of loathing from the Demon Continent had focused squarely on him and the Empress. Was it bravery or sheer folly to draw the ire of countless demons onto themselves?

    Everyone nced upward. The Divine Dawn Empress had already returned to her pce, and a retinue of Immortal Empire officials followed her like loyal ducklings. The Grand Temple Sage, including Ye Qingtian, wore dark expressions, clearly far from done.

    "Yun Xiao," Drunkard, the bald man in green robes, appeared before him, eyes twinkling with amusement.

    Yun Xiao bowed respectfully. "I must thank you, Uncle Drunk, for saving me earlier."

    The man chuckled heartily, "No need for formalities." He gestured with his hand, "Come, the Empress wants to see you privately in the pce."

    "Understood," Yun Xiao nodded. And so, they strolled through the streets of the Heavenly Realm. Despite the watchful eyes of the surrounding demons, they marched proudly towards the pce of the Divine Dawn Empress.

    Along the way, the Drunkard took a sip from his wine jug. With an introspective gaze, he remarked, "The days ahead won''t be peaceful."

    "Mhm," Yun Xiao agreed.

    "How do you feel?" The man inquired with a yful smirk.

    "About what?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Publicly executing the Demon Prince, absorbing the demon bones, and refining his flesh into a Blood Crystal," he borated.

    "Exhrating," Yun Xiao admitted.

    "Did you hear some of the jeers?" the Drunkard asked.

    "I did," Yun Xiao smirked, his eyes reflecting deep disdain.

    The Drunkard chuckled. "Good, because those voices will only grow louder. Not just against you but the Empress as well. Rumors will fly, enemies will twist words, and if I were to guess, you''ll soon be painted as a criminal in the annals of the Immortal Empire."

    "Because the historianse from the Grand Temple?" Yun Xiao inferred.

    "Exactly," the Drunkard spat with disdain, "They''ve long since chosen to side with the demons. Your actions, in their eyes, are an affront to their benefactors. These cowards are in cahoots with our enemies. To call them traitors would be kind."

    Yun Xiao remained silent, contemting the man''s words.

    The Drunkard heaved a deep sigh. "No surprises here, but you''re about to face criticism as vast as the skies themselves. They''ll im that by your cruelty towards the Demon Prince, you''re inciting demons tosh out and harm innocent folks. But they don''t grasp a fundamental truth. In this world, demons kill, consume flesh, and drink blood without needing a reason. It''s just their nature. Whether you''re cruel to them or not won''t change a thing. The only reason they''ve been behavingtely isn''t due to any harmony between humans and demons. It''s because they fear the Empress. When the Ye Royal Family ruled, those were the real dire days. These so-called schrs and holier-than-thou folks just conveniently chose to look the other way."

    Dignity wasn''t about a supposed friendship between humans and demons. It lied on the edge of a sword!

    "She''s only fifteen," Yun Xiao murmured, feeling a bit indulgent around her.

    "Exactly! Fifteen! The root of recent conflicts stems from this very fact," the Drunkard said, eyeing Yun Xiao. "Think about it. If she''s this formidable at fifteen, wouldn''t the Five Great Demon Emperors of the Demon Continent fear her? Who knows what she''ll be in a few years? Yun Xiao, do you know what rhetoric has been circting from the Grand Templetely?"

    "What?" Yun Xiao asked, clenching his teeth.

    "''Humans and demons can coexist, but Divine Dawn must die!''" the Drunkard said with a cold chuckle.

 Chapter 172: Empress of the Divine Dawn

    Chapter 172: Empress of the Divine Dawn

    "Humans and demons can coexist, but Divine Dawn must die?" Yun Xiao repeated, a bit dazed. The phrase sounded eerily familiar.

    "In ancient times, the phrase was ''Humans and demons can coexist, but Sword Cultivators must die,''" the Drunkard continued, shaking his head with a sad smile. "A bunch ofpassionate folks knelt before the demons and sent a billion Sword Cultivators straight to hell. From that day forth, they willingly relinquished their martial prowess, letting humanity undergo a millennium of humiliation, oppressed and ughtered in broad daylight. Those who surrendered were pleased; they lived like puppets in the Heavenly Realm, feasting and partying, while themon folks suffered endlessly.

    "And now, a fiery young Empress emerges, making the Demon Continent quake in fear, singlehandedly bing the backbone for the people of the Immortal Empire. And lo and behold, those holier-than-thou individuals responsible for the fall of the Sword Cultivators reappear. This time, they brainwash the young and the masses, portraying the Empress as a tyrant, a war criminal responsible for disrupting peace and causing immense suffering. They want to tear her apart and ensure she''s reviled for eternity."

    Hearing this, a surge of anger boiled within Yun Xiao. He too was a monarch! If such events were to truly transpire, how utterly heartbreaking? The politics of the Immortal Empire were far more intricate than those of the lower realms...

    Those illustrious families, conspiring with demons to drain the lifeblood of the masses, grew portly andcent. Their influence spread like tangled roots throughout the Heavenly Realm and beyond, within othernds of the Immortal Empire.

    The young prodigies of the Immortal Empire were all their descendants, spread to every nook and cranny of the Heavenly Realm. Against such awork, how could a young maiden, with only herbat skills, possibly stand?

    "No surprises there. I bet they''ve already started ndering the Empress within the pce walls," the Drunkard said with a cold smirk.

    Yun Xiao had seen the true colors of these people in the Grand Temple.

    "They''re only ridiculing you as naive and selfish for now, Yun Xiao. But when the real battle begins, while you face the enemy, they''ll be all too ready to stab you in the back! You need to watch out for knives in the shadows during the War of Immortals," the Drunkard warned.

    "I understand," Yun Xiao replied, taking a deep breath and nodding.

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    "They''re actually quite pitiable. They''ve been kneeling for so long, their knees have gone numb, and their spirits are broken. No matter what you do, they see it as a wrongdoing. If you don¡¯t kneel alongside them, they feel humiliated. You punish their demonic overlords, so naturally, they criticize and vilify you. At the slightest misstep, they''re ready to curse eighteen generations of your ancestors!" The Drunkard shook his head and sighed. "What''sughable is just how many of them there are."

    "Too many indeed..." Yun Xiao admitted, looking a bit worn out.

    "When you punished the Demon Prince, I was watching. To be honest, a truly conscientious person, seeing one of their own destroy a demon harming their fellow man, would be thrilled and touched. Even if they found it reckless, they''d still stand by your side, right?" the Drunkard mused.

    "Right." Yun Xiao nodded.

    Zhao Xuanjian was one such person. Though he felt it was ill-advised, in the end, he stood by Yun Xiao.

    "But some folks are different. Their immediate reaction is one of profound difort. They chastise your character and actions, eager to paint you as a selfish historical viin. They''d pin all the demons'' atrocities on you, wishing to see your reputation crumble. Why? Because their hearts have be corrupted, their knees softened from years of bowing. Such people act self-righteous and point fingers during peacetime but betray their own when the going gets tough. You can''t hide such human nature." The Drunkard sighed deeply.

    "I''m aware. Like those from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire. They don''t genuinely care about themon folk''s well-being. To them, the lives of the masses are merely pens with which they write death, their moral weapon. And such weapons never point at demons, only their own fellow man!"

    Killing a person? That was amateur hour. But with a moral weapon in hand? Well, now, that could smear a man''s name through the mud and back!

    Should Yun Xiao meet his end or suffer defeat, not only would they hurl insults at him, but they''d ensure their descendants sang the same vitriolic tune. All the while, they''d line their pockets with gains made off his misery.

    After hearing all this, one thing was clear; the world was a brutal ce. But a simple nce upwards revealed the pce, shimmering like a beacon of hope. The torchlight of humanity!

    "Her Majesty is still fending off those ruffians," the Drunkard said. "I''ll lead you to the side hall to wait."

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded, his gaze lingering on the majestic pce.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    A group had gathered in the grand pce hall!

    "Your Majesty!" The Grand Temple Sage''s face was purple with rage. He pointed an using finger at the young girl on the throne, his voice raw from shouting, "Even if you tarnish the reputation of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor to save face for the other demons, it''s just for show! With the ruthlessness of these demons, do you really think they''ll let it slide? What if they retaliate against themon folk? Have you lost your senses? For your own selfish desires, you''ve acted so recklessly. How many innocent lives will pay the price?"

    Being one of the oldest and most respected figures in the Immortal Empire, with disciples holding the reins of the empire''s very lifeline, his words held weight. And when he spoke up, other officials of the Empire chorused in agreement.

    The former Azure Sky Emperor stood to the side, his expression grave.

    "Go on," the Divine Dawn Empress said, sitting upright, her eyes closed in contemtion.

    ¡°The four Demon Emperors will be here soon!¡± the Grand Temple Sage eximed, his face as pale as death. ¡°Eternal Joy is merely the weakest of them. These four are terrifying, each more so than thest. You might have defeated Eternal Joy, but can you face all four of them?¡± he pleaded, desperation dripping from every word.

    "Your Highness! Though my words may sound harsh, I beseech you to heed them! I''ve already made contact with several other Emperors of the Immortal Empire. Their advice? To offer up Yun Xiao as a sacrifice at the gates of the Heavenly Realm to wee the Demon Emperors. To bow and apologize, then cede ten territories of our Immortal Empire. Only then might we maintain peace between our races. If not, when the vast armies from the Demon Continent march upon us, how many innocent souls will suffer the consequences?¡± Finishing his plea, the Grand Temple Sage, embodying the spirit ofpassion, sobbed uncontrobly.

    The Divine Dawn Empress chuckled, ¡°Ten territories? Such precise demands and an insatiable appetite. Did thise straight from the Demon Continent?¡±

    ¡°Your Majesty,¡± Ye Qingtian interjected, standing with respect, his voice grave. ¡°Where this information originates matters little. What''s crucial is that this might be our only hope to avert disaster. The delicate dance of power between humans and demons isn¡¯t child¡¯s y. If, in a moment of rashness, you decide to lose these territories, I will be silent. But I urge you to reflect deeply before acting."

    The Divine Dawn Empress burst intoughter. After her mirth subsided, she crossed her legs casually and raised an eyebrow towards Ye Qingtian, "I am but fifteen, and I do see this as a game. Tell them not only will I not give up anynd, but I also intend to host the War of Immortals. If they wish to participate, our Immortal prodigies await. If not, they can leave right now!"

    "You!" The Grand Temple Sage, hearing her rebellious words, trembled with fury. With the support of his seniority and backing from influential officials, he pointed an using finger at the Empress, "Foolish girl! Even now, you show no remorse for the chaos you''ve wrought?"

    The Empress simply smirked, ¡°And?¡±

    ¡°And? With your grave errors and stubborn pride, you will be vilified as the monarch responsible for the downfall of countless innocents! Relying solely on your power, acting unterally, you epitomize the tyrant devoid of virtue. You will be spurned by all! The prosperity built by our ancestors will crumble in your hands!¡±

    Having said his piece, the Grand Temple Sage knelt and wailed towards the pce''s exterior, crying out, "Great ancestors above! I¡¯ve devoted my life to nurturing bonds, hoping for a harmonious coexistence between the worlds of humans and demons. But this tyrannical Empress has deepened the rift, jeopardizing the Grand Temple''s millennia-old ns. I beg you, take back her Heavenly Realm formation, and save our cherished Immortal Empire!"

    Yet, amidst his heartfelt pleas, the Divine Dawn Empress couldn''t help but giggle. The absurdity of it all was simply too amusing.

    The atmosphere was thick with tension when Ye Qingtian spoke, his voice somber, ¡°Your Majesty, the Grand Temple Sage only spoke in the heat of the moment, thinking of themon folk. I beg you not to hold it against him.¡±

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    The Divine Dawn Empress, in her delicate voice, replied, ¡°You worry too much. Who would take offense at an impotent, raging old man''s words?¡±

    ¡°Indeed!¡± Ye Qingtian said earnestly, ¡°But the intentions of the Grand Temple are noble. They seek to end the strife between humans and demons. Your Majesty, you know as well as I do that these demons breed fast, and no matter how many we y, they¡¯ll always outnumber us. Hence, guiding them towards righteousness is the only way.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± The Empress''s eyes sharpened. ¡°What if I exterminate every single one in the Demon Continent? Leave none alive? How would they breed then?¡±

    Ye Qingtian hesitated, then responded with respect, ¡°The heavens value life. As Cultivators, we aim to ascend the path of Immortality. Should we really be ying the role of destroyers? Both humans and demons suffer in this world. Cultivators should act withpassion. Otherwise, we risk the wrath of the heavenly judgment.¡±

    ¡°Heavenly judgment? Sounds terrifying,¡± the Empress replied with a smirk.

    Ye Qingtian paused before asking, ¡°So, how do you decide, Your Majesty? It¡¯s just ten territories after all.¡±

    ¡°Hmm...¡± The Empress shrugged, then sat upright. ¡°Anyone who insists on ceding the ten territories, step forward!¡±

    As Ye Qingtian furrowed his brow, standing still, the Grand Temple Sage bravely stepped forward. ¡°I wish for peace among the people,¡± he dered, standing tall, emanating an air of righteousness.

    ¡°I stand for the people,¡± Han Jingli said, joining the Grand Temple Sage''s side. One after the other, officials from the Immortal Empire stood by them, supporting their cause. Half the room had now taken their side.

    ¡°Any more?¡± The Empress inquired.

    The remaining officials hesitated, eventually bowing their heads in submission.

    ¡°Good,¡± she acknowledged with a nod, then casually flicked her wrist.

    BOOM! A gigantic bell, the Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell, descended, encapsting the Grand Temple Sage and his supporters.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Han Jingli eximed. Suddenly, endless thunder and fire erupted within. From inside the bell, the air was filled with chilling screams and curses. The faces outside, including that of Ye Qingtian, were a masterss in astonishment.

    Complete and utter silence fell upon the area.

    The Divine Dawn Empress sat upright, her eyes closed, her fingers tapping rhythmically on the armrest of her throne. <em>TAP TAP TAP!</em> With every beat, the entire pce quaked.

    By the ny-ninth tap, she announced, ¡°The stew¡¯s ready. Who¡¯d like a taste of Saint Soup?¡±

    Opening the Heavenly Realm Bell, instead of people, there was only a heap of dark ashes. She turned her piercing gaze to Ye Qingtian, ¡°Lord Ye, as a representative of the Ancestral Temple, care to go first?¡±

    His face turned a shade darker than the ashes. He mustered a strainedugh, ¡°Thank you for your kind offer, Your Majesty. But, such a fine delicacy would be better suited for the likes of the Supreme Marshal, Zhao Xuanjian, and others. I shall take my leave.¡±

    With a bow, he backed away, his expression fierce but beads of sweat visible on his brow. As he exited the pce, he transformed into an azure tempest, disappearing into the distance. The remaining officials, their legs trembling, hastened their exit.

    From a side hall, Yun Xiao observed it all. The ash... it used to be the Grand Temple Sage, Minister Han Jingli, and the other officials.

    ¡°Summon Yun Xiao,¡± the Empress said, stowing away the bell. With a light puff, the dirt and grime of the pce were instantly expelled, leaving the space pristine.

    In no time, a young man in white approached, standing before her. The Empress, adorned in a golden-red dragon robe and a crown embellished with nine pearls, gazed down at him from her elevated throne. Suddenly, she stood, descending the steps, her long dress trailing behind. She passed by Yun Xiao, her face concealed by the hue of a blood-red storm, but he recognized the familiar, graceful figure.

    ¡°Today,¡± she began, stopping before the hall¡¯s entrance and gazing at the vastndscape of the Heavenly Realm. ¡°Both you and I have been called selfish and senseless.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Yun Xiao nodded.

    "After the War of Immortals, I will instigate a war between our two races. I will formally dere war on the Demon Continent!" the Divine Dawn Empress proimed.

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao nodded in response.

    Under the zing sun, the Empress slowly spread her arms, bathing in the morning light. All Yun Xiao saw was her majestic silhouette against the dawning sun.

    "Our people have suffered for far too long," she continued, her voice echoing with determination. "If we don''t fight this war, the next generation will have to. Someone must risk it all to secure a prosperous era for countless generations. If I perish without making a mark, the next era may not witness another like me. By then, any battle will result in dire loss. Now is the most opportune moment in our history. The demon race won''t give us a chance to grow. We must strike first, hard and decisive, to eliminate their lineage!" She tilted her head slightly, the sun''s brilliance battling with the thunderous glow on her face for dominance.

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao repeated, nodding his understanding.

    "In this war, I have no certainties. If our warriors and civilians must be sacrificed, I''m prepared to join them in death. I''ll bear the weight of history''s condemnation, even if it means being cursed for eternity. My hope is that this war eradicates the Demon Continent, restoring ournds and peace for countless eras. Some sacrifices are necessary for a longsting prosperity."

    "Yes!"

    Slowly, the Divine Dawn Empress turned to face the rising sun, its rays bestowing a golden glow upon her.

    "By Heaven''s decree, I was born. Although I''m but a woman, I''ll use every ounce of my strength for our people,ying down my life for the peace and prosperity of ournds. Even if it leads me to my demise, I will have no regrets. I wish to stand alongside the many who are willing toy down their lives, using our bodies to pave the path to prosperity for all. Any praise or me from history, I will shoulder alone.

    "Many lives will be sacrificed in this war. I won''t hog the credit, nor do I want our brave souls to wander aimlessly in the afterlife. So, when the war ends and if I''m still alive by some fluke, I''ll take my own life at the Sword Dao Monument as atonement, apanying our warriors on their journey to the afterlife..."

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    She paused, her gaze softening as she locked eyes with Yun Xiao.

    "Yun Xiao," she whispered, her lips parting to deliver her most pressing message. "I hope you will inherit my mission and protect our people after I''m gone."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 173: Cleanse the Throne! Preserve the Peace!

    Chapter 173: Cleanse the Throne! Preserve the Peace!

    In the Heavenly Realm, the streets buzzed. After a jaw-dropping battle, an air of deadly silence cloaked this tiny world within the mini-universe. It should''ve been the liveliest day in the Heavenly Realm, with cultivators from the Divine Continent, along with a good many demons from the Demon Continent congregating. As a result, inns, taverns, shops, both big and small, and entertainment districts began reopening.

    Though the mood was eerie, folks couldn''t help but chatter about the recent sh. Divine Dawn Empress, Eternal Joy, and Yun Xiao were the three names on everyone''s lips.

    Rumor had it that a horde of demons had been given strict orders to stay put, not to stir up any trouble. But their murderous intent was palpable. They hadn''t acted, but the deadly glint in their eyes made it seem as if they''d already killed a thousand times over.

    And so, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, along with the Heavenly Realm''s guards, had already been patrolling the city in groups.

    The Heavenly Realm''s guards were part of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army system,posed of retired soldiers from the Immortal Army. They usually had a quieter lifepared to the Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    The streets were peppered with soldiers d in white tiger armor!

    Clearly, preparations were underway in the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire. The entire Heavenly Realm was on alert, and you could see the tension in the cold eyes of the soldiers.

    Every demon roaming the streets had the ever-watchful eye of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army upon them. Their forces, it seemed, were vastly more than a mere hundred thousand sword cultivators.

    Just then, a decree from the pce once again shook the silent Heavenly Realm!

    "By royalmand, the Grand Temple Sage, the Minister of Rites Han Jingli, and twenty-three others have shown disrespect to the Empress in the Imperial Court. They ignored the ancient heavenly pact, proimed their desire to reinstate the Azure Leaf Immortal Empire, and attempted to seize the Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell. Theymitted the crimes of treason and insubordination! The Empress is furious and has sentenced these individuals to death. In consideration of their past services to the state, their nine generations of families are spared. May all in the Immortal Empire be warned, remain true to the Dao, and not be led astray!"

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The Nine Heavens Immortal Army broadcasted the royal decree, moving through the grand streets of the Heavenly Realm, ensuring all heard the news! They held vast banners aloft, upon which, in smudged gray-ck ink, the names of those twenty-three officials from the Immortal Empire were listed! At a nce, a staggering ny percent bore the names Ye, Mu, or Han. This spoke volumes about the deep-rooted power of the Immortal Empire''s elite.

    "The Grand Temple Sage betrayed the Empire?!"

    "All twenty-three of them are high officials..."

    Countless cultivators of the Heavenly Realm stared in stunned silence as the Nine Heavens Immortal Army passed by, their hearts churning with tumultuous emotion.

    ying the Demon Emperor and purging the human ministers!

    The actions of the Divine Dawn Empress of the Immortal Empire today were nothing short of terrifying. What on earth was she nning?

    "The Empress, a mere woman without a lineage or a foundation, ascended to the throne with the power of the Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell. Although she wields great power and might, beneath the lineages of the Ye, Mu, and Han, there are dozens of prominent families and ns. The aristocratic disciples and elites control over ny percent of the Empire''s vital positions! After executing so many prominent figures today, do you think the old Azure Leaf faction will take this sitting down?"

    Everyone knew that only three factions truly stood with the Divine Dawn Empress.

    Firstly, the military of the Immortal Empire, led by the Supreme Marshal and the Chen n.

    Secondly, the merchant groups of the Immortal Empire, with the Spirit Treasure Pce and variousrge merchant coalitions at the forefront, conducting business across several immortal empires.

    Lastly, the new stratum of the Heavenly Realm.

    This so-called new stratum referred to individuals who had not originated from the Heavenly Realm but had risen to its heights due to personal or generational efforts. For example, Qi Lan, the Minister of War who had ascended from the lower realms.

    These neers, regardless of their origins, could never truly prate the inner circles of the age-old elite families in the Heavenly Realm. Their career prospects were limited unless they had exceptional talent and literally fought their way to the top.

    For someone like Qi Lan, she would never have reached her position without the nod from the Divine Dawn Empress.

    "The folks from the Azure Leaf faction have been done dirty, and I''m sure as hell they aren''t going to let this slide!"

    Beyond military and trade, the Azure Leaf faction had their fingers in almost every pie of the Immortal Empire, dominating various sectors like governance, finance, and census. They controlled institutions aplenty, from the Grand Temple and Ancestral Temple to the Great Dao Pavilion and the Six Immortal Divisions.

    Before the War of Immortals, the Divine Dawn Empress had beheaded a Demon Emperor and directly torn ties with the long-established Azure Leaf faction. For a moment, many hearts quaked in their chests. Anyone with a hint of sensitivity could smell the deadly danger in the air.

    "As expected, the Azure Leaf faction will retaliate, and they''lle at it from every angle!"

    And sure enough, they did! Upon hearing of the Grand Temple Sage''s death, the entire Grand Temple seethed in fury. In no time, a wave of young prodigies from the Immortal Empire stormed out of the Grand Temple. Tens of thousands of them, mainly the cream of the crop from the elite families of the Heavenly Realm. They took to the streets, their faces flushed with anger, tears in their eyes, and righteousness fueling their shouts -

    "Cleanse the throne! Preserve the peace!"

    These six words, organized and deliberate, drowned out the royal decree, echoing in every corner of the Heavenly Realm, ringing in the ears of every cultivator.

    Leading this brigade of Grand Temple schrs was a group of prodigies from the Dragon Ranking of the Grand Temple. After the death of Ye Shengyin and others, many moved up the ranks on the list.

    Apart from Chen Xi who held the top spot, eighty-plus of the top one hundred were present. They led tens of thousands of the Immortal Empire''s young talents, symbolizing the empire''s future. And that future? Well, it was pretty much in the Azure Leaf faction''s pocket.

    At the helm was the son of the Prime Minister, named You Qingzhi, currently second on the Dragon Ranking, trailing only behind Chen Xi.

    The renowned You n, one of the oldest families in the Heavenly Realm, held a respectable seat in the Ancestral Temple. And here was You Qingzhi, dressed in celestial blue, his long hair tied in a simple knot. Tall and majestic, he exuded an ethereal grace that was often associated with immortals. But his eyes were bloodshot now, filled with fury. Behind him, tens of thousands of young prodigies from the Immortal Empire followed, their steps resolute and heavy.

    "Cleanse the throne! Preserve the peace!" Their young voices roared in unison.

    "My friends," You Qingzhi began, raising a hand for emphasis, "Our young Empress is but a child, easily swayed by treacherous advisors. These cunning fiends control the court, casting their dark shadows and disrupting our ancient order. They risk our brethren''s lives for their own wicked gains. Their hearts are dark and treacherous!

    "Generations of our Grand Temple Sages have served the Empire, giving their very lives for its glory. Yet now, when we offer nothing but loyal advice, we are silenced forever! With such evil running rampant, if we, the schrs, do not stand for justice and for the people, where then is our honor? Where is thew?"

    Tears flowed from You Qingzhi''s eyes, his voice thick with emotion. And then, with a swift movement, he knelt, bowing deeply to the crowd gathered. "I beseech you, all enlightened souls here, think of our Empire, join us, insignificant as we are, in demanding justice for our people. We must petition the removal of these treacherous viins! Only then can our young Empress truly awaken."

    "I implore you all, make this ultimate sacrifice for our homnd!"

    And with that, tens of thousands of prodigies from the Immortal Empire knelt alongside him.

    A whisper swept through the crowd, "Who''s this treacherous advisor he''s talking about?"

    "No brainer, it''s the Supreme Marshal of the Chen n, right? So... do we join them?"

    "Oh,e off it! Do you even know what these Grand Temple schrs are like? Think they''re our equals? After they''re done making a scene, they''ll return to their lives of luxury. If the Nine Heavens Immortal Army cracks down, we''ll be the first to go!"

    "Think we''re just some gullible fools, swayed by a few passionate words?"

    "Well, some are really moved..."

    The aim of these Immortal Empire prodigies had, indeed, been achieved. But not by many.

    A mere handful of followers trailed behind them, mostly friends they had made through their family''s influence and some of their household retainers.

    Their journey was one of outraged mor, all noise and show. The Nine Heavens Immortal Army had spotted them long ago. But¡ªand it was a big but¡ªthis raucous groupprised the prodigious talents who had consumed the resources of the Immortal Empire. Despite their youth, each of them was a formidable force. Holding aloft the banner of justice and having not yet caused any real disturbance, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army could only keep an eye on them, not daring to take any rash action. Any misstep, any excuse that suggested the army was eradicating the talented ones of the Immortal Empire, would only be fodder for these rabble-rousers to further stir the pot across the Heavenly Realm.

    And so, the uprising of these young members from the Grand Temple indeed drew the attention of cultivators throughout the Heavenly Realm.

    In no time, their ranks swelled to hundreds of thousands. They swept through the major streets of the Heavenly Realm, time and again listing the crimes of the supposed traitors. While they never named names, all signs pointed squarely at the Supreme Marshal of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    Yun Xiao, on his way back to his residence from the royal pce, witnessed this spectacle.

    "Priceless!" Blue Star eximed,ughing. "The Divine Dawn Empress took out their parents. Why aren''t they targeting her? Instead, they''re going after your unlucky father-inw. Are they dense?"

    Yun Xiao chuckled coldly, "Oh, they''re sharp. The Divine Dawn Empress has the endorsement of the Primordial Bell, giving her a legitimate standing. She has her reasons for eliminating any threats. Plus, she''s incredibly powerful on her own. They can''t take her on directly, so they aim for the Supreme Marshal. Their game is to discredit him, iste her, and weaken her base.

    "Once the charges against the Marshal solidify and she still defends him, she''ll be sshed with the same mud, losing public trust. If she even loses the support of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, she''ll truly be alone against the world."

    Blue Star remarked with a chuckle, "Why is the mortal realm so convoluted? Just wipe them all out and be done."

    "It''s a simple solution," Yun Xiao replied. "But it relies on overpowering strength. The Divine Dawn Empress doesn''t have that right now. And didn''t you notice? These <em>talents</em> are all from noble families. They im to be the future of the Immortal Empire. Killing them would cause a public uproar. After all, everyone''s gasping under the weight of the Demon Continent''s threat."

    He sighed. "Today, the so-called virtuous officials like those from the Grand Temple and Han Jingli are either too old or too ipetent. They see themselves as above it all, but when they talked too much, they gave the Divine Dawn Empress the chance she needed."

    But that didn''t mean that people like Ye Qingtian, the Prime Minister, and others from the original Azure Leaf Immortal Empire weren''t formidable. Ye Qingtian was also a renowned Emperor of his generation! Together, theirbined strength was indeed impressive. Moreover, they had the support of the Violet Emperor from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire.

    "In the end, your wife''s foundation in this Immortal Empire is just too shallow," Blue Star remarked.

    "No kidding! This Immortal Empire originally belonged to the Ye Royal Family, and she just bulldozed her way in. Her biggest deterrence now isn''t herbat power, but her mysterious background. Today, after she killed the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor and audaciously eliminated the Grand Temple Sage, I guess the other Demon Emperors and the various human Emperors will once again specte about the terrifying powerhouse behind her," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    Chen Xi took an audacious step without revealing her true identity as Empress.

    If the world knew she was the daughter of his top general, war might have ignited the moment she imed the throne.

    "You know, I don''t get it! Today, didn''t your wife disy impressivebat prowess? Why can''t these folks, like Ye Qingtian and the Grand Temple Sage, just band together with her, ally with all the major Immortal Empires, and jointly take down the Demon Continent? Everyone knows she''s formidable, yet they pretend to belittle her. Isn''t that dumber than me?" Red Moonined.

    "Haha, so you admit you''re dumb?" Blue Starughed heartily.

    "Do you even know the reason?" Red Moon retorted with a smirk.

    Blue Star pped Red Moon''s face, saying coldly, "You got it backward. They don''t belittle her. They''re actually quite afraid of her! If there were a real battle and the humans of the Divine Realm won, they would be terrified."

    "Why?" Red Moon looked utterly confused.

    "Because they fear retribution! Generations of them have been in cahoots with the demons, exploiting the human popce, acting as the butchers for the demons. They may look human, but they have the hearts of demons inside. If a war breaks out and the humans lose, they would celebrate, for they and their descendants would continue to live a luxurious life in the Heavenly Realm, leeching off the human realm.

    "But if the humans won... they''d be doomed! With the demons eradicated, these sanctimonious traitors would face an even grimmer fate. If I were Chen Xi, I''d wipe out their entire lineage, making sure not even a trace of them could resurge," Blue Star said coldly.

    "What if we secretly tricked them into believing there''d be no retribution after the war?" Red Moon suggested with a hint of mischief.

    "Idiot, would you believe that?" Blue Star red.

    "I would!" Red Moon affirmed seriously.

    "..." Blue Star stared agape. No wonder you''d ask something like that!

    "The thing is, these folks from the Azure Leaf faction, they''re not dumb. They know everything, even their own wrongdoings! But... they''ve been in bed with the demons for generations, forming a symbiotic rtionship based on mutual benefits. Their actions are driven by self-interest! Expecting them to fight for humanity is now impossible."

    As Yun Xiao looked at the indignant students of the Grand Temple, he could only sigh. Whether humans or demons survived, it was themon folk who suffered the most...

 Chapter 174: An Angry Impotent Crowd!

    Chapter 174: An Angry Impotent Crowd!

    Yun Xiao had barely spent a few days in the Heavenly Realm before he felt the need to quickly familiarize himself with the current situation of the Immortal Empire. His eyes cold, he remarked, "It''s not just the former Azure Leaf Immortal Empire that has this kind of culture. The Violet Sky Immortal Empire is even worse. It''s practically a puppet for the Demon Continent within the Immortal Empire. Rumor has it that demons can openly hold office there. Moreover, they send ordinary mortals straight to the Demon Continent for demons to feast upon. Ever heard the saying, ''Hell is empty and all the devils are here''? That¡¯s why."

    Red Moon''s eyes spun in confusion. "I don''t get it. Why betray your own kind? What¡¯s the advantage in that?"

    "The benefits? They''re countless! First off, your descendants can forever enjoy privileges by being bootlickers. Secondly, with the support of demons, the Violet Sky Immortal Empire has always been more prosperous than other Empires. One might even say it''s currently the top Immortal Empire in the Divine Continent.

    "The former Azure Leaf Immortal Empire also benefited. Apart from these two, the other four Empires refused to bow to the demons. While their people might live more peacefully, their elite ns don''t have it so easy."

    Back in ancient times, there weren''t as many Immortal Empires in the Divine Continent, and the Heavenly Realm was the sole capital. The Sword Realm back then was even vaster than it was now.

    But with the sands of time shifting, the Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent went through countless mergers and partitions. The Violet Sky and Azure Leaf Immortal Empires were rtively newer. Especially notable was the Azure Leaf Immortal Empire which was located in the mini-universe, with the Heavenly Realm, as its capital. This was quite an unparalleled advantage. After all, this ce was once the primary capital of ancient Immortal Empires!

    As for Violet Sky and other Empires, while they might not have a world like the mini-universe, their capitals still sat within the aura-rich havens of the Divine Continent. They were not short of powerful individuals either.

    "Especially the Violet Sky Immortal Empire. Though its citizens might be living on the edge, the geniuses emerging from its elite ns are astounding and the powerful are in abundance!"

    In the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, whether one was a powerful figure, an official, or just amoner¡­ it was all predetermined at birth. There were no tales of defying fate here!

    "If we could truly unite the powers of the six Immortal Empires and the Divine Dawn Empress, and wage war against the Demon Continent right now, could we win?" Red Moon asked.

    Yun Xiao shook his head, "That''s no longer a possibility. The enemy has already infiltrated from within, turning many of our people into humanoid demons."

    As if on cue, and much to Yun Xiao''s expectations, led by You Qingzhi, the geniuses from the Grand Temple, numbering over two hundred thousand, began rallying. Chanting slogans about cleansing the throne, it seemed they were about to stir things up! They all stood before the magnificent Spirit Treasure Pce!

    You Qingzhi, his eyes ame with righteous fury, pointed dramatically at the towering edifice and roared, "Zhao Xuanjian of the Spirit Treasure Pce, in cahoots with those treacherous ministers, sells wares at exorbitant prices! He profits off the people, robbing our Immortal Empire of its riches and stripping the denizens of the Heavenly Realm! How can such a lowly man amass wealth openly in our Empire? Where is our honor, if we don''t stop him?"

    His words ignited the passions of the two hundred thousand behind him, a sea of anger!

    "Exactly! The Spirit Treasure Pce''s prices are highway robbery!"

    "Their quality''s abysmal too! Nowhere near as good as the wares from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire!"

    "Profiteer! Sucking the lifeblood from the people!"

    "Take him down!"

    "Raid the ce! Whatever you grab is yours!"

    "Smash it all!!"

    In an instant, two hundred thousand zealous cultivators charged towards the Spirit Treasure Pce.

    Inside, the pce''s guests were paralyzed with shock.

    "Halt! If you dare breach the Spirit Treasure Pce, don''t me us for being inhospitable!" Thousands of the pce''s guards rallied at the entrance, looking out at the horde of two hundred thousand with ambitions wilder than wolves, their hearts quaking.

    Everywhere they looked, they saw the scions of the Immortal Empire''s elite. The very folks who, under normal circumstances, wouldn''t be caught dead doing anything remotely rowdy. Most of them were, in fact, VIP patrons of the Spirit Treasure Pce, big spenders who didn''t blink at dropping vast sums. And now they wereining about prices?

    As the massive crowd bore down, the guards could only brandish their magic treasures, readying for a fight.

    However, seeing the treasures brought out, the eyes of the Immortal Empire''s elite young ones sparkled even brighter, glinting with avarice!

    "We are the future of the Immortal Empire!" one youth shouted, fire in his eyes. "You sycophantkeys might as well massacre us all, make it easier to plunge our nation into chaos!"

    "Kill me! Come on, do it! Kill me!" another cried.

    Their faces were all full of fierce passion, their words dripping with fervor. But something was off¡ªit was as if every shout and protest had been choreographed in advance.

    The guards of the Spirit Treasure Pce stared, ck-jawed.

    They didn''t dare make a move. Even if they took down one, the opposition would seize the opportunity, and the narrative would spiral out of control.

    Fortunately, Zhao Xuanjian appeared at the pce entrance. His gaze was icy, unreadable as he assessed the agitated crowd. "Activate the Great Spirit Treasure Barrier!" he ordered in a calm voice.

    "Yes!" A group of middle-aged men scrambled. Soon, a shimmering golden shield enveloped the pce, protecting it from the outside world.

    Boom after boom echoed as two hundred thousand cultivators unleashed their magic and hurled their magic treasures at the barrier. The guests inside the pce paled at the onught.

    "Dammit! A bunch of rowdy brats!" Zhao Xuanjian cursed under his breath. He turned back to the pce interior, a forced smile on his face. "Ladies and gentlemen, nothing to worry about. Please continue with your delightful shopping."

    The guests exchanged bemused nces. Outside, the world seemed to being apart at the seams.

    "They''re just clowns, hiding behind their titles, causing trouble wherever they go," Zhao Xuanjian remarked to a young man with striking violet eyes by his side. "Let these whelps howl in anger for a bit. When their celestial forebears are punished by the Empress, it''s only natural for the pups to bark."

    "It turns my stomach," Stray Dog grumbled through gritted teeth. "Those very same folks had the audacity to send me an invitation to the neers'' wee party for the War of Immortals. Thankfully, I declined. That wee party was just a stage for those from the higher realms to unt their superiority over us cultivators from the lower realms."

    "Don''t fret," Zhao Xuanjian said gravely. "The War of Immortals is imminent, and thesepdogs are destined to fight for the demons. Luckily, your generation from the ny-nine lower realms has its fair share of prodigies. The Nine Heavens Immortal Army, the Chen n, and the Sword Cultivators have also scouted promising young talents. Coupled with prodigious righteous warriors from the other four Immortal Empires and Chen Xi at the helm, yourbat strength won''t be outshone by theirs or the demons. It will fall to your lot to hold the line for the mortal realm."

    "Huh? I heard the Supreme Marshal said the entire Chen n would abstain from the War of Immortals," Stray Dog remarked, perplexed.

    Zhao Xuanjian chuckled. "You trust his words as if they were gospel? The core descendants of the Chen n mostly hone their skills in the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, rarely returning to the Heavenly Realm. They''re simply toozy to get on the Dragon Rankings. Trust me, when pushes to shove, they''re a tenacious lot, much fiercer than these paper tigers."

    "Speaking of which, Old Zhao, your son can be a bit... delicate, don''t you think?" Stray Dog teased.

    Zhao Xuanjian nearly choked, "Watch it..."

    "They''re leaving!" Stray Dog noted, peering outside.

    "They just couldn''t stomach my Spirit Treasure Pce," Zhao Xuanjian sighed. "However, they might now vent on other shops and inns, hoping to goad the Nine Heavens Immortal Army into taking lethal action against them."

    "Well, they''d best choose their targets wisely or they might end up trashing their own properties, which would be quite theedic blunder," Stray Dog said with a smirk.

    "Although about eighty percent of the businesses in the Heavenly Realm belong to their families and sell products even pricier than mine, they''re sharp enough not to make that mistake," Zhao Xuanjian said with an icy smile. "Let them cause some economic losses. Consider it throwing a bone to the dogs. The real showdown during the War of Immortals will be the key."

    "When that timees, if they try their old tricks, they''ll meet a grisly end," Stray Dog vowed darkly.

    Zhao Xuanjian earnestly added, "Without Ye Xingchen and Ye Shengyin, they''re practically halved in strength. Even You Qingzhi, the son of the Prime Minister, is about on par with you. Yet, there are a few formidable prodigies in the Violet Sky Immortal Empire you should keep an eye on. Not to mention, there''s a slew of Saint Realm Demon Princes and Princesses in the Demon Continent, who are far more formidable than young demons like Kong Ming. If you cross paths with them, best leg it."

    After all, as the old saying goes, "Ack of patience can spoil great ns."

    The Nine Heavens Immortal Army had their orders and paid no mind to the so-called future talents of the Immortal Empires.

    Many shops and inns, having heard the rumors, wisely shut their doors early and secured their wares. A smashed storefront was one thing, but intact goods meant the loss wasn''t too severe.

    "These ruffians aren¡¯t making as big a ssh as they think," an observer mused. "These noble kids just don''t have the people''s hearts in the Heavenly Realm. The cultivators here aren¡¯t dimwits. They see right through their charades."

    After all, had the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm not been wildly fervent for the Divine Dawn Empress in broad daylight? Who could rally them with such hollow chants?

    This very reason bolstered Yun Xiao''s belief: the essence of humanity still thrived. There was hope.

    And so, a day of mindless smashing and violence ensued. Yet, because of the limited scale of these rioters, it all fizzled out as dusk approached.

    The calls for purifying the throne were just noise. Turning such words into action, given the current public sentiment, seemed unlikely. They had hoped to rally millions of cultivators and march on the imperial pce. But in the end? A motley crew was all they could muster.

    "At the heart of it all, when the Divine Dawn Empress executed the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor in broad daylight, her fame skyrocketed. She rallied an entire faction''s angry souls, effortlessly dissolving the sinister schemes of those malevolent spirits," someone remarked.

    The mor for purifying the throne indicated their ns had been long in the making. But the Divine Dawn Empress had acted first, effectively blocking their path.

    "So, in a way, I''m responsible for drawing all this animosity?" Yun Xiao said with a sly grin. Deep down, he felt reassured. All of today''s events signaled that they, indeed, had the people''s hearts. The masses were keen-eyed. They could distinguish friend from foe, human from dog. And with this rity, a fight to the end held true meaning.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Upon returning to his residence at the Chen Heavenly Mansion, Yun Xiao leaned against the mansion''s wall, extending a hand outside.

    From beyond the wall, a delicate, snow-white hand met his¡ªa silent intertwining of fingers. Ahem! That hand belonged to Moon Fairy.

    "This Seed of Creation grants a gift called Chalk Flesh Armor. Sounds a tad nauseating, I know, but it significantly strengthens hair and feathers. My Sword Soul couldn''t prate the Peacock Prince''s body,rgely because of this particr seed," he shared.

    "Once the body double receives this gift from the Seed of Creation, its physical defenses will multiply several times over!"

    With a wall between them, Yun Xiao grasped his own outstretched hand and transferred the Seed of Creation. Done!

    "Gosh, there''s a lot here," Yun Xiao remarked, tossing several items outwards.

    On the other side, Moon Fairy picked them up, delight evident in his movements. "With all these treasures, my body double will have a significant boost before joining the War of Immortals. I can infiltrate the enemy lines and cause quite the ruckus."

    With that thought, Yun Xiao turned towards the Dawn Pavilion. "Tomorrow marks themencement ceremony. 108 Demon Saints, various Demon Emperors, the Emperors of the five other Immortal Empires, and thousands of warriors will gather, making their grand appearance. I should use this time to strengthen myself further."

    Just as he took a few steps, a fragrant breeze wafted his way. Looking up, Yun Xiao was met with a sprightly young girl in a white skirt, her captivating eyes sizing him up. In a yful tone, she asked, "Heard someone had a private audience with the Empress today?"

    "Yes, and?" Yun Xiao responded, a slight smirk on his lips.

    "Who''s prettier? The Empress or me?" Chen Xi asked, biting her red lips.

    "She''s spicier than you," he teased.

    "???"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 175: Red Lotus and Eclipse

    Chapter 175: Red Lotus and Eclipse

    Evening had settled in. Within the Dawn Pavilion, the allure of night was undeniable.

    In a room bathed in sultry red, two figures sat at the edge of a bed, a silent tension stretching between them. By day, in the imperial pce, she had stood resplendent in dragon robes, lips as crimson as ripe berries, her presence broad andmanding. But here, in the Chen Heavenly Mansion, she donned a short white skirt, her legs pale and inviting, a delectable sweetness about her.

    "That night in the bridal chamber, when you chased me down to the lower realms, I sensed an immense power in you," Yun Xiao remarked, his eyes intensely fixated on her.

    "Merely an illusion," Chen Xi replied coolly, not meeting his gaze.

    "Is it?" Yun Xiao arched an eyebrow and chuckled. "Chen Xi, you wouldn''t happen to have any ties to the Empress, would you?"

    Her gaze frosted over instantly. "Keep your wild spections to yourself, and certainly keep them from others!" Her fingers clenched the intricately carved edge of the bed, a clear sign of her growing unease.

    "Just as I suspected!" Yun Xiao eximed, amusement evident in his eyes. "I''ve figured out your true identity!"

    "You!" Chen Xi''s posture shifted defensively, her eyes narrowing on Yun Xiao.

    "You''re the Empress''s disciple!" Yun Xiao announced, reaching out and pinching her flushed cheek yfully. "Am I right?"

    Chen Xi only red in response.

    "Don''t worry," Yun Xiao reassured, "Your secret''s safe with me."

    "Just keep it that way, especially before the War of Immortals," Chen Xi warned, exhaling a little.

    "Fine, but you have to do something for me," Yun Xiao bartered.

    "What?" Chen Xi frowned, suspecting he was up to no good.

    "Put in a good word for me with your master," he grinned.

    "Why would I do that?" She shot him a puzzled look.

    Yun Xiao leaned in and whispered, "Because I have a taste for the spicy."

    Chen Xi was momentarily dumbfounded. With a swift motion, she snatched up a jade pillow and aimed it squarely at Yun Xiao''s head. "You audacious fool! Daring to disrespect the Empress? Be careful or I''ll report you and have your entire lineage punished!"

    Yun Xiaoughed heartily. "Well, in that case, you''d be punishing your own family too."

    Chen Xi was fuming! She thought indignantly, ¡°After all those noble words I shared during the day, the only thing he took away was spicy!¡±

    It had been Zhao Xuanran who met Yun Xiao first. Given that Chen Xi stepped in and imed Yun Xiao for herself, she had no ce toment. But the current scenario made it feel as if she had led her own husband astray. How infuriating! In her exasperation, she ended up in a yful brawl with Yun Xiao right in their newlywed chamber.

    The room still carried the vibrant charm of their recent wedding. The soft glow of red candles illuminated the room, and the window sported a prominent <em>marriage</em> character, symbolizing double happiness. Strands of red streamers hung from the ceiling.

    Momentster, the two found their hair tangled and knotted together.

    Chen Xi still red at him. However, her anger seemed to have dissipated. The man before her was undeniably handsome, and after stealing a few more nces, she found her mood inexplicably lifting.

    "Today, a lot transpired," Chen Xi said, steering the conversation as she gazed at her dangling feet.

    "Indeed. They almost got rid of your father," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "A bunch of hypocritical curs," Chen Xi responded with a coldugh.

    "But thinking about it, even though you top the Dragon Ranking, the rest on the list are backstabbers. It must be tough," Yun Xiaomented, gazing at her profile.

    "Yes¡­" Chen Xi''s eyes carried a mncholy.

    "In this uing battle, you have to represent the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire, bearing the weight of the entire nation. You''ll be facing the likes of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire and those still loyal to the Azure Leaf faction, as well as Demon Princes and Princesses of the Saint Realm. It''s quite a burden for you alone," Yun Xiao noted.

    Chen Xi looked up wordlessly at him. Despite her fierce battles during the day, at night, she still felt the exhaustion. It wasn''t the strength of her enemies that she feared, but rather the treachery within.

    "Will you be there with me?" Chen Xi asked softly.

    "Of course. A man should lead the way," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Do you have any ulterior motives behind that statement?" she asked suspiciously.

    "¡­None," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Oh," Chen Xi inhaled slightly, her face tinged with sadness. "Honestly, everything else is bearable. But the torment of a million wronged souls is too much." No wonder she had been so somber, even uttering words of self-me and remorse.

    "Let¡¯s not talk about this. How about some wine?" Yun Xiao suddenly suggested, producing a bottle of the Tiger Rod Wine Chen Xi had gifted him.

    Chen Xi shook her head, "I don''t drink."

    "Alcohol can soothe a heavy heart and embolden the spirit," Yun Xiao said, his eyes warming. "A single swig before battle can grant the courage to defeat thousands."

    Convinced, Chen Xi grabbed the bottle from him.

    "This chaotic world brought us together, and even if our meeting was ill-fated, I''ll drink to your aspirations," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    She scoffed, "Who said anything about being ill-fated with you? I married you for your looks, not love." She popped open the bottle, took a daring sip, and immediately gasped, "So spicy!" Her cheeks flushed a vibrant shade of red, her tongue seemingly cloaked in a fragrant mist.

    Chuckling, Yun Xiao remarked, "You''re too green for this."

    Defiant, Chen Xi retorted, "Laugh all you want. Think this can beat me?"

    Stubborn as ever, she continued to down bottle after bottle under Yun Xiao''s yful encouragement. Eventually, her eyes zed over, a drunken haze clouding her vision.

    "Ready to rest?" Yun Xiao whispered into her ear.

    She nodded weakly, her voice a soft murmur.

    "Call me Big Brother," he teased, lifting her chin.

    She caught his hand, her eyes deep with affection and whispered, "Big Brother..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Deep into the night at the grand entrance of the Heavenly Realm stood two figures atop the Clearview tform. This was the main entrance to the Immortal Empire''s capital, nked by towering stone pirs that exuded grandeur and gravity.

    To the sides of the Clearview tform, undting mountain ranges stretched out. Trees of deep autumn hues painted the mountains with patches of golden yellow.

    One of the figures on the tform, d in a teal-gold robe with neatly tied hair and stern features, was Ye Qingtian. Beside him stood a strikingly handsome man in a purple-gold dragon robe with light purple flowing hair. This was the Violet Emperor from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire. To many, he was the most magnificent emperor.

    However, after the great battle with the Divine Dawn Empress, the title of the most magnificent emperor might''ve found a new owner in the hearts of the people.

    Once, they were hailed as the dual Emperors of humanity, the Violet and Azure Monarchs. Now, the Violet remained, but the Azure was gone. Despite that, these two towering figures stood side by side, hands behind their backs. It was clear in the Violet Emperor''s eyes that the man beside him was still a peer, a brother, a dearest friend.

    The night wind howled, biting cold, yet the duo remained, speaking in low tones for what seemed an eternity.

    Above, a full moon hung high, almost as if it sat atop the Heavenly Realm itself.

    Then, suddenly, a chunk of that moon disappeared!

    A chilling and brutal aura engulfed the Heavenly Realm, the very air freezing.

    "A lunar eclipse?" Ye Qingtian murmured.

    "He''s here," the Violet Emperor replied, eyes narrowing as he looked upward. The missing piece of the moon grewrger, a dark shadow expanding across it. In mere moments, the moon was swallowed whole.

    A hum filled the air. Darkness enveloped everything, making it impossible to see even one''s own hand. Only the lights from the Heavenly Realm behind them still shone.

    "He''s the youngest among the Five Great Demon Emperors and has much room to grow... he seems even more terrifying now," Ye Qingtian remarked, his face taut.

    "Yes," the Violet Emperor said, nodding gravely.

    "Do you and this demon have a history?" Ye Qingtian asked.

    "We''ve been fortunate to be acquaintances," the Violet Emperor said with a slight grin. But before his words could even settle, another change urred.

    Around the tform, the surrounding hills and valleys, which had been filled with withering nts, were now tainted with a blood-red hue. This coloration spread upwards, making the dried branches, leaves, and grasses seem engorged with blood. Even new blood-red leaves and flowers sprouted.

    The entirendscape, once a vision of verdant green, transformed into a sea of crimson. Countless ruby-red petals danced in the air, drifting above the tform. It was as though the world had ushered in springtime prematurely. But it was a bloody spring.

    On many of the parched grounds, devoid of water, sprouted blood-red lotuses. The flowers stood tall and eerie, their crimson petals shimmering with a dreamlike hue.

    A low hum filled the air. Suddenly, the blood-red lotus petals trembled and detached from their stems. Whipped by the wild winds, they soared into the sky, forming magnificent floral tornadoes. Countless fiery-red petals spiraled towards the Heavenly Realm.

    The scene was both enchanting and chilling.

    Then, in an abrupt convergence, the endless sea of petals merged into one mass in mid-air.

    With a resonant hum and amidst the whirl of petals, a dazzling blood-red lotus dress unfurled, spanning the horizon. Within the folds of the dress, a woman of breathtaking beauty, framed by a myriad of petals, descended from the heavens. Her blood-red eyes and cool, alluring lips gave her an otherworldly aura. Her tall and mature silhouette exuded an irresistible charm.

    As she graced thend with her presence, the trees, grass, and flowers on the mountains bloomed even more vibrantly, as if resurrected.

    "Red Lotus!" From the heavens above, the shadow that had previously swallowed the moon called out.

    Following that voice, the shadow transformed into a young man in ck robes with hair trailing to the ground. He descended gracefully,nding beside the woman in the blood-red dress. Only then did the moon emerge once again, bathing the Heavenly Realm in its silvery glow.

    Against this backdrop, the bloody spring on the mountains appeared even more fantastical, brighter, and eerie. Every nt seemed toe alive.

    "Lil Pup," the woman in the blood dress said tenderly, her eyes on the ck-robed youth, her voiceced with amusement. "I beat you here."

    "I don''t care. You took a shortcut. That''s cheating!" The young man pouted, yfully chiding, "Red Lotus, you''re the worst."

    Thedy in the crimson dress smiled gracefully, choosing not to respond.

    They both descended, stopping before the Violet Emperor and Ye Qingtian.

    "Wee, mighty Demon Emperors!" Violet Emperor and Ye Qingtian chorused in unison.

    "Heh." The young man in ck observed them coldly, a gaze so unsettling that the so-called human Emperors felt a chill creep up their spines.

    "Regarding the matter with Eternal Joy, the Divine Dawn Empress acted alone. On behalf of the Immortal Empire in the Heavenly Realm, I beg for your forgiveness," Ye Qingtian implored, bowing deeply, looking as though he might kneel at any moment.

    "No need," the youth in ck shrugged nonchntly. "Eternal Joy met his end foolishly, exposing the Divine Dawn Empress''s strength in the process. That''smendable."

    "Understood," Ye Qingtian sighed in relief, knowing full well the tension between Eternal Joy and the youth in ck before him. For now, that chapter seemed to have closed.

    Violet Emperor, eager to move on, asked, "What about the other two Demon Emperors?"

    "The Gu Emperor arrived in your Heavenly Realm earlier. Probably didn''t care to meet you. After all, he''s everywhere," the youth paused for effect before continuing, "As for Forbidden, he''s currently in the Endless Netherworld feasting on the souls of the resentful. He could arrive at any moment."

    "Oh..." Ye Qingtian and Violet Emperor exchanged nces, nodding silently. This meant three Demon Emperors had arrived, and the fourth was, essentially, on his way.

    "Don''t just nod," the youth in ck said coldly. "You''ve had time. What have you found out?"

    Violet Emperor hesitated, admitting, "This woman''s origins are elusive, as if she appeared out of thin air."

    Ye Qingtian interjected, "Rest assured, if she truly had a terrifying background, why would she linger in conflict with me? I believe she is likely alone and of humble origins."

    "Humble origins, and she''s reached such a level of cultivation at her age?" the youth scoffed.

    "Yes..." Ye Qingtian murmured, lowering his head.

    "If I find out you''ve withheld information, do you know the consequences?" The youth threatened.

    Ye Qingtian gritted his teeth, replying, "Rest assured, I dream of her demise."

    "Lil Pup, don''t me Lord Ye," the woman named Red Lotus in the red dress interjected softly.

    "Hmph," the youth sneered. He then produced a small, ck orb. From it emanated a torrential wave of resentment. The faces of countless vengeful spirits manifested on its surface.

    "What is that?" Violet Emperor inquired, eyes sparkling with curiosity.

    "Forbidden Fate fetched this little treasure from the Endless Netherworld..." the youth began.

 Chapter 176: Breaking Through Four Stages After a Nightly Session!

    Chapter 176: Breaking Through Four Stages After a Nightly Session!

    The boy in ck handed a dark sphere to Ye Qingtian and whispered into his ear. As he spoke, the pupils of his eyes eerily shifted from full moons to crescents.

    "The Sword Dao Monument?" Ye Qingtian''s eyes widened in shock, staring nkly at the ck-d youth.

    "Don''t you dare? Don''t you wish to remain the ruler of the Heavenly Realm? Don''t you want the Azure Leaf Immortal Empire to return to the human world?" the youth in ck sneered.

    "Are you joking, Moon Emperor? He dreams of reiming the throne every night," said the Violet Emperor with a smirk.

    Taking a deep breath, Ye Qingtian hesitated for a moment before nodding emphatically. "Alright, I''ll do it."

    "Delighted to work with you, hehe!" the boy in ckughed mischievously. He was wild, sinister, and intense. Such traits were linked both to his true nature and his youthful age.

    In contrast, the woman named Red Lotus, was undoubtedly more terrifying. Yet, she always wore a gentle smile as if basking in a bloody spring breeze.

    "May I ask where the young prince and princess are?" the Violet Emperor inquired expectantly.

    The boy in ck gestured behind him, announcing, "They''re here!"

    As his words echoed, shadowy figures emerged from the gloomy horizon. Eventually, over a dozen young men and women ascended to the Clearview tform. The enchanting mist at the gateway of the Heavenly Realm grew even denser.

    These individuals were shrouded in demonic and deathly auras. Although human in shape, they varied greatly, resembling insects, snakes, nts, birds, and beasts. Some even seemed to have taken shape from the very filth and resentment of the world.

    But they all had one thing inmon¡ªtheir youth. They were younger than the ck-d youth, but older than Kong Ming. Among them, two genuinely belonged to the human race.

    "Father," a young man and woman stepped forward from the horde of demons, approaching the Violet Emperor.

    The young man, tall and stately, shared the Violet Emperor''s violet hair and handsome features as if carved from the same mold.

    The girl, however, was astonishing. She appeared no older than eleven or twelve with the same violet hair, but her youthful face was marred by an eerie detail¡ªher eyescked pupils, a stark whiteness. This made her seem like a soulless corpse, standing listlessly.

    "Lil Qi!" After a prolonged absence, the eyes of the Violet Emperor lingered on the young girl for quite some time. Then, turning to the two Demon Emperors, he expressed, "I''m indebted to the Demon Continent for nurturing my two children."

    "No need for formalities," the woman in the red dress responded in a haunting tone. "Both children are exceptionally talented. In the War of Immortals, they can set the standard for the human race."

    "Especially Little Qi here," the youth in ck interjected, his eyes softening for the first time when looking at her, "Given a few more years, she might well be another Divine Dawn."

    Another Divine Dawn? The Violet Emperor felt a rush of pride but sensed the barb in thement. Hurriedly, he replied, "Bing a Divine Dawn is no small feat. She disrupted the peace between our races! While Little Qi can aspire to the might of the Divine Dawn, she mustn''t adopt her ways, tarnishing societal norms."

    After saying this, he gazed at the line of prodigious talents from the Demon Continent and sighed, "Thanks to the mentorship of all the brothers and sisters here, Little Qi achieved a significant breakthrough in the Endless Netherworld. I hope she will continue to learn from all of you."

    "There''s no need for such courtesies, Violet Emperor," the several chilling demon elites replied in unison.

    The youth in ck scanned the assembled young elites and smirked, "Your time in the Endless Netherworld has indeed honed your skills. Neither the Divine Dawn nor the Four Immortal Empires know of your progress. Use the War of Immortals to refine yourselves further."

    "Yes!" The top demon talents nodded in agreement, faces cold and resolute.

    "The only regret," the Violet Emperormented while stroking his beard, "is that very few are worthy of being their opponents in the War of Immortals."

    "Thrashing weaklings has its own charm," the prince beside him whispered.

    Upon hearing this, Ye Qingtian''s expression grewplicated, realizing that after the deaths of Ye Xingchen and Ye Shengyin, his lineage had no prodigy that could match the Demon Continent''s talents.

    The Violet Emperor then inquired in a hushed voice, "Did the Gu Emperor enter the Heavenly Realm early to uncover the Divine Dawn''s background?"

    The youth in ck chuckled, revealing his answer.

    Ye Qingtian remarked, "With the Gu Emperor in y, the Divine Dawn will find it hard to maintain her mysterious facade."

    Staring towards the direction of the Heavenly Realm, the youth in ck revealed a feral grin, "Regardless, Eternal Joy was our Demon Emperor, and we will avenge him! Not only that, but we''ll strike her twice! The War of Immortals is one blow, and the Sword Dao Monument is the other. We will shatter her from the inside and the outside, pinning herpletely to the pir of shame."

    Red Lotus added, "And with Forbidden Fate in the Endless Netherworld drawing in resentment, it''s the finishing blow... With these three strikes, the momentum of the human race can be dismantled!"

    "The human race is just a motley crew," the youth in ck sneered. "Break their spirit, and their souls will shatter. They''ll destroy each other without us lifting a finger."

    Both the Violet Emperor and Ye Qingtian could only offer awkward smiles.

    "Lords Violet and Ye, please don''t mind Xiao Tian''s wild words. Both of you have made unparalleled contributions to the human race," Red Lotus interjected with a gentle smile.

    "That''s right! Emissaries of peace, your virtues are boundless!" The youth in ck gave them a thumbs up, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Dawn broke. Today marked the inauguration of the War of Immortals. The four great Demon Emperors of the Demon Continent, 108 Saints, and the prodigious forces from the six Immortal Empires would all be in attendance.

    Once the primary battlefield was summoned, tens of thousands ofbatants would enter it. The true battle wouldmence at the stroke of midnight!

    Early in the morning, Yun Xiao slowly awoke in the bridal chamber. His head was hazy, and rity eluded him. Reaching out, the soft form that had been nestled in his arm was gone. Looking around, empty wine bottles littered the floor. She must''ve left first.

    "Ugh..." It came back to Yun Xiao. This time was different from thest. He had been more tender this time, a feeling of cherishing evident.

    "Man, her father''s wine is seriously potent." Yun Xiao surveyed the empty chamber, feeling a sudden void in his heart. Though his heart felt empty, a turbulent force raged within him, coursing through every fiber of his being.

    "I need to merge it quickly." This was a third of the Yin Void''s total power! It was overwhelmingly powerful!

    Yun Xiao activated the Primordial Void Technique, channeling the Yin Void power, integrating it into his Nine Dragons Dantian and the Nine Heavens Star Meridians.

    <em>POP POP POP POP! </em>In only fifteen minutes, a series of four explosive sounds reverberated. The increase in his magic power was staggeringly impressive!

    "Holy cow... she''s incredible, pushing me to such heights twice in a row!" Yun Xiao muttered. He had broken through four stages!

    The night had been nothing short of a miracle. "In a single evening, I surged from the Early Immortal Meridian Realm to the Establishment Immortal Meridian Realm! Does this mean I can even challenge the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm now?" It was utterly mad!

    "There''s still a third of that Yin Void power lingering inside me, unreleased," he pondered. "For now, all I can do is wait for the Wind Fire Tribtion to descend, only then can I tap into this reserve."

    The Wind Fire Tribtion, the first monumental challenge on the path to immortality, tested one''s mettle by forging their magic power into sacred power, elevating them beyond the mortal ne. This phase demanded patience, for the tribtion came naturally, one couldn''t hasten it.

    What''s more, he''d heard that not everyone faced the same intensity of tribtion. The more prodigious the talent, the more ruthless the tribtion. Ironically, those exceptional talents often had a higher mortality rate. This particr tribtion was also known as the Jealousy of the Heavens tribtion. Throughout history, many prodigies met their end facing these five tribtions.

    "While I haven''t faced the Wind Fire Tribtion yet, this four stage surge of power ensures I''ll be a force to be reckoned with in the War of Immortals," Yun Xiao mused, his eyes burning with fervor.

    In truth, he couldn''t fathom why Chen Xi chosest night of all times. It was a mere probe on his part, and he hadn''t expected her to be so¡­ receptive. Only one pivotal time remained.

    "Blue Star," Yun Xiao mused aloud, standing and ncing at the disheveled scene behind him, "when do you think she''ll choose for our third cultivation session?" He reminisced about the intoxicating allure of the previous night, a sly smile ying on his lips.

    "Well, I''ll be! They''re about to hand you the throne, and after those three times, they''re likely plotting to help you rise again in power. And yet, here you are, eyeing her magic power?" Blue Star eximed, eyes wide as saucers.

    "ssic bad boy behavior!" Red Moon dered, excitement painting its features. "Oh, how I love a scoundrel!"

    Sure, the Divine Dawn Empress had grand aspirations. She intended to drain Yun Xiao of his magic power to bolster her chances in a do-or-die battle. That was so like her. Having prepared to have him inherit the throne, she surely had ns to ensure Yun Xiao''s resurgence under her protection. But Yun Xiao? He never intended to let her have her way.

    "She might be powerful, but this battle, it''s my turn," Yun Xiao said, his gaze unwavering.

    "Oh? But your path to power will be much smoother than hers," Blue Star remarked, a hint of disdain in his voice.

    "That might be true, but I still n to... well, let''s just say I have my reasons," Yun Xiao coughed, sidestepping a direct answer.

    "Why?"

    Taking a deep breath, Yun Xiao began, "Can''t you see? She''s taken the weight of a million lost souls upon herself. She believes she instigated this war, and that she''ll be responsible for every casualty. There''s an old saying: ''A general''s sess is built on a mountain of bones.'' If the human race emerges victorious and she survives, she''ll be celebrated for eternity. But in her heart, she believes that iming such honor is a desecration to those who fell in battle. She''d rather join them in the afterlife and protect their souls. That''s the real tribtion she''s facing."

    It was a sentiment not many could understand.

    Yun Xiao wasn''t saying it was noble, but it made Chen Xi feel more human, more real. Or perhaps it was a dilemma she, as a woman, couldn''t shake.

    "So, you want to fight in her ce? If she doesn''t fight, she won''t gain any merit, and hence, no internal strife?" Blue Star said, realization dawning.

    "Sharp as always! Truly intuitive!" Red Moon eximed.

    "It''s called empathy," Yun Xiao corrected with a re.

    "Same difference," Red Moon mumbled. "But if you take her ce, wouldn''t that mean you''d get all the glory without any guilt?"

    "You just don''t get it," Blue Star chuckled. "At the end of the day, Our brother here is more enlightened than she is. His conviction and resources far surpass hers. He''s ready to do everything in his power to minimize the losses for humanity. This is a task a true man should shoulder."

    "Damn straight!" Red Moon eximed. "He''s the real deal!"

    As Yun Xiao chatted with the little beast, Chen Xi''s irate voice echoed from outside. "The War of Immortals is about to begin, and you''re still in bed? Get up, youzy ass!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 177: Arena Champion Battle, Cycle Battle, Grand Melee!

    Chapter 177: Arena Champion Battle, Cycle Battle, Grand Melee!

    The door swung open. The sun zed brilliantly in the sky. Sunlight danced on the fair skin of the young girl in a white dress, the rosy flush fromst night''s revelries still coloring her. Her face bloomed with a shade of delicate pink, like a flower kissed by dawn.

    The thrill from the night on the divine vessel, coupled with the tenderness of the previous night, left a vivid impression. Of the two, she found thetter more to her taste. So, even as she feigned aloofness, there was an unmistakable twinkle of delight in her eyes.

    "Come with me," Chen Xi pouted slightly and turned.

    "Where to?" Yun Xiao took two steps, walking beside her.

    Bathed in sunlight, they looked like figures straight out of a painting, reminiscent of a celestial couple.

    "To meet your two teammates," Chen Xi replied.

    "Teammates for the War of Immortals?" Yun Xiao deduced, "This must be for the round robin."

    Chen Xi nodded.

    Yun Xiao nced at her with a slight smile. "After our intense cultivation session yesterday, I had a significant breakthrough, advancing four stages. And you?"

    "I made quite the progress too!" She huffed in response, yfully resenting his bragging.

    "It''s peculiar. We both im victory. So, who lost?" Yun Xiao teased.

    "Your Senior Sister Zhao, of course!" Chen Xi chuckled.

    Yun Xiao just sighed. Though Chen Xi had lost a third of her magic power, possibly due to her affinity with the Yin Void, he felt that she seemed even stronger than before.

    "It seems like the Yin Void cultivation technique she practices is pretty authentic! Who knows? Maybe she really does have a link to the Primordial Immortal Ancestor. While it seems her sacred power has decreased, its purity has grown manyfold, and the Seed of Creation meridians within her, nurtured by you, has grown stronger. So, herbat abilities might not have waned at all," Blue Star mused. Clearly, this detail had taken it by surprise.

    "That''s reassuring," Yun Xiao responded. He had been concerned about her dwindlingbat prowess, especially from the second to the third time.

    "If she''s benefited this much from Yang Void, what would happen if that Primordial Immortal Ancestor fell under our brother''s de?" Red Moon whispered mischievously.

    "How should I know? When that goddess was presented to the Creator, he wouldn''t even spare her a nce. Now, she''s a Cosmic Immortal primogenitor, leagues beyond him. A match now seems impossible," Blue Starmented with a touch of regret.

    Yun Xiao resisted the urge to scold the two.

    "Oh, by the way," Chen Xi looked up seriously, "The War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realmsts two days. I need a favor from you the evening after. After the war concludes, don''t wander off."

    "Something important?" Yun Xiao''s eyes twinkled mischievously, his lips curling into a smirk. "Don''t tell me you, little tigress, are getting greedy again?"

    "And what if I am? Aren''t I rightfully wedded to you? Is it a crime for a wife to crave her husband''s attention?" Chen Xi retorted with a poker face.

    "Definitely not."

    So, it seemed she had chosen the evening after the War of Immortals for their third session. He wagered that it was the eve of her dering war on the Demon Continent. The most crucial step was iming the Yang Void! Yun Xiao discerned the determined glint in her eyes. She was preparing to devour him before going on a conquering rampage. Her confidence was astounding. And the way she eyed Yun Xiao resembled a predator eyeing its prey, a gaze dripping with aggressive intent.

    "Just you wait. I''ll make you cry," Yun Xiao thought smugly.

    Both harboring their own little secrets, they stepped out of the Dawn Pavilion.

    "Good day, Young Lady, and good fortune to Young Master!" As they strolled, the guards of the Chen Heavenly Mansion greeted them with evident respect in their eyes. Having defeated Ye Xingchen and executing the Peacock Prince, Yun Xiao had long since won their admiration. From such interactions, one could see just how solid Chen Xi''s identity was. The deeper her character''s story went, the farther she seemed from the Divine Dawn Empress.

    Before long, the duo entered a courtyard.

    "Brother Jin, Lil Tang," Chen Xi called into the distance, her face expressionless. "Yun Xiao''s here."

    A flurry ofmotion echoed from within. Soon, two young men emerged, arms draped over each other''s shoulders. One was in brown battle armor, with a square face, a broad physique, dark skin, and fiery eyes. On his forehead, the character <em>king</em> faintly marked his identity. Yun Xiao recognized him. It was Chen Jin, Chen Xi''s cousin and son of her uncle Chen Zhao. A regr in the training camps of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, he was being groomed by the Supreme Marshal as his sessor. His demeanor and steady gait hinted at a future great general.

    The other was a slender, pale-skinned youth in a light blue robe, with delicate features and a remarkably slim waist.

    "And who might this be?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "That''s Zhao Xiaotang, son of Uncle Zhao," Chen Xi rolled her eyes as she introduced him.

    Recognition dawned on Yun Xiao immediately. His reputation was indeed thunderous. He nced over, and boy, was that fellow mboyant...

    Moon Fairy was a man with feminine features but wasn''t exactly dainty. Instead, he had a bewitching, cold aura about him. But this Zhao Xiaotang, from his physique to his smile, gave off vibes that made a man''s scalp tingle!

    "Brother Yun Xiao!" As soon as Zhao Xiaotang spotted Yun Xiao, he let go of Chen Jin''s neck, his eyes sparkling as he lunged in for a hug.

    "Hold it right there!" Chen Xi interjected, putting out her arm. "Speak if you wish, but keep your distance from my husband."

    "Good grief, you tomboy, are you actually jealous of me?" Zhao Xiaotang eximed in surprise.

    "Tomboy..." Yun Xiao felt the room spin.

    As expected, before Zhao Xiaotang could finish his quip, he caught a fist to the chest and went flying.

    "Ouch!" Landing with a thud, he let out a pained groan. Scrambling up, he pointed a delicate finger at Chen Xi and dered in a high-pitched tone, "You brute! Just you wait, Yun Xiao will ditch you sooner orter!"

    "..." Yun Xiao stared, mouth agape.

    No wonder Zhao Xuanjian always seemed so downcast. If Yun Xiao had him for a son, he''d be a little troubled too. Still, the fact that they could joke around like this meant Chen Xi shared an exceptionally close bond with these two. They must have been ymates from childhood.

    "I don¡¯t have the energy for you." Chen Xi shot Zhao Xiaotang a withering look, then turned to the man in the brown armor, "Brother Jin, I''ll leave Yun Xiao in your care."

    "Understood," Chen Jin nodded. "He''s your husband, which makes him as good as my blood brother."

    "He''s our brother too!" Zhao Xiaotang chimed in, sizing Yun Xiao up from head to toe with a gleam in his eye. "Goodness, with such stunning looks, even I, at my prime, would need to dodge his splendor! Just how much good karma did this wildcat umte over her past lives to be lucky enough to tarnish such a radiant lotus?"

    "Zhao Xiaotang!" Unable to contain her rage any longer, Chen Xi lunged at him, pinning him down andnding punch after punch!

    The scene didn''t faze Chen Jin; he had seen such antics before. He beckoned Yun Xiao, and they settled side by side under the pavilion.

    "Brother Yun," began Chen Jin, "Come nightfall, when we enter the battlefield, we, you, me, and Xiaotang, should form a team, fighting together and bringing honor to our Divine Dawn Immortal Empire."

    "A team?" Yun Xiao knew this had something to do with the round robin rules, but his understanding was superficial. "Could you borate on the rules of the battle for me?"

    "She didn''t tell you?" Chen Jin seemed surprised.

    "She''s the beacon of her race, quite the busybody," Yun Xiao replied with a shake of his head.

    Chen Jin nodded, pausing before delving into the details. "The War of Immortals spans two days, and the kind of battlefield differs each day."

    "Two days?" Memories of the Eight Swords Conve shed in Yun Xiao''s mind. It was clear that such ancient dueling practices from the mortal world evolved from this Heavenly Realm''s War of Immortals.

    "Correct. Let''s talk about the first day. It''s divided into two distinct battlefields¡ªthe Cycle Battle and the Arena King Battle." He nced at Chen Xi and continued, "Let''s start with the Arena Champion Battle. The essence is that the six Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent each select a Champion. The Demon Continent, on the other hand, gets to have ten Champions. That makes sixteen Champions in total. Each of these sixteen Champions guards a respective arena, and any participant can challenge them for their position. For our Divine Dawn Empire, the top of the Dragon Ranking takes on the role."

    That exined Chen Xi''s challenge at the Grand Temple. An Arena Champion was akin to a seeded participant. Only one slot was avable for the entire Divine Dawn Immortal Empire. Given that Chen Xi was in the Saint Realm, it was evident that these sixteen Arena Champions were among the mightiest of thebatants, representing the glory of their respective nations. Moreover, the Demon Continent had ten slots, most likely filled by the sons and daughters of Demon Emperors. This meant their collective strength likely surpassed that of the six Immortal Empires'' top prodigies.

    "And the Cycle Battle?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Cycle Battle is quite a spectacle!" Chen Jin''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "All participants form squads of five. They then skirmish with other five-member squads. The quicker you take down your opponents, the faster you can move on. These shes truly test a team''s synergy and are always thrilling to watch."

    Yun Xiao, puzzled, asked, "So there''s the Arena Champion Battle on one hand and the Round Robin on the other. If they''re unrted, how does one determine the victor?"

    Chen Jin produced a white War of Immortals jade token and held it before Yun Xiao, saying, "Victory is determined by the number of these little trinkets one holds."

    "And how does that work?" Yun Xiao, curious, took a closer look, recognizing he had one of those jades himself.

    "For instance," Chen Jin began. "In the Cycle Battle, each participant must wear this jade. In a five-on-five showdown, if you defeat the opposition, you gain their jades. You then move on, collecting more jades with each victory."

    "That''s somewhat simr to the Sword Debate rules."

    "But," he continued, "how are the spoils divided within the squad?"

    "Amongst yourselves!" Chen Jin replied.

    "And if there are disputes?"

    Chen Jin grinned mischievously, "Then, sort it out within your ranks, even if it means stabbing a teammate in the back!"

    Yun Xiao''s eyes widened in disbelief. "That intense?"

    Chen Jin nodded. "The rules of the War of Immortals are incredibly lenient! While you can betray your team, once a squad is registered, no changes or additions can be made. Sure, you can take out a teammate, but afterwards? In the most extreme case, you could be facing a five-on-one situation."

    Lose or die, and you were out! Each participant started with just one War of Immortals Jade. Often, as the five-member squads engaged wave after wave of enemies, their numbers would dwindle. Yet, the number of jades each person gathered could vary greatly. Differences led to rankings. And rankings determined winners and losers.

    "And what about the Arena Champion Battle?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "The Arena Champion Battle is a lot simpler," Chen Jin began with an instructive tone. "The sixteen Champions will have their War of Immortal jade token upgraded to a golden one. A single golden War of Immortal jade token is worth a hundred white ones. Anyone feeling particrly gutsy can challenge a Champion with their white jade. But you only get one shot. Lose, and you hand over your white jade token and exit thepetition. Win, and you snatch the golden jade token, bing the Champion yourself."

    Yun Xiao got the gist. The Champion Arena Battle was about one-on-one duels, while the Cycle Battle was a team event with five participants each. At the heart of both contests was the War of Immortal Jade. Whether in the Arena Champion Battle or Cycle Battle, the victor would always im the loser''s jade. The Cycle Battle, with its many twists, promised quite the spectacle.

    "On the first day, each participant can only choose one battleground, whether it''s the Cycle Battle or the Arena Champion Battle. By the day''s end, many will be eliminated, leaving a preliminary ranking of the remaining fighters," Chen Jin exined.

    "But considering how strong all sixteen Champions are, would anyone actually choose to challenge them?" Yun Xiao pondered aloud.

    "Oh, they will. And not just a few," Chen Jin replied with a smirk.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "The ultimate goal of this War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm is to crown the top Immortal in the human world. That title is likely to be imed by one of these sixteen Champions. So, most challengers are either cannon fodder, gaining experience, or just seeking a moment in the limelight. Even if they''re certain to lose, many still crave the chance to face off against top-tier talent. Just getting a nod of recognition is worth it for some," Chen Jin paused, a glint in his eye. "Moreover, four of the Champions hail from the six Immortal Empires and are said to be below the Saint Realm. Plenty of demons are itching to take them down a peg or two, just for the sheer pleasure of humiliating them."

    "Ah, so given the intensepetition, some might employ a war of attrition, using sheer numbers to wear down the other prodigies on behalf of their faction''s top talent?" Yun Xiao arched an eyebrow inquisitively.

    In a world where differences dictated rankings, excitement was brewing.

    "For example, countless demons, each taking their turn to challenge Chen Xi!" Chen Jin paused, mulling over the thought. "Based on past experiences, for every three participants in the Arena Champion Battle, there are seven in the Cycle Battle. But with the addition of the five other Immortal Empires and the Demon Continent this time, who can really say?"

    In prior tournaments, the Champions hailed from the top ten on the Dragon Ranking. Yet, this War of Immortals was the grandest in recorded history, and naturally, there were nuances to consider.

    "So, the main goal on the first day in both these zones is to thin out the herd and wear down the fighters, with the real action reserved for the second day?" Yun Xiao inquired, eyes narrowing thoughtfully.

    Chen Jin nodded enthusiastically. "Exactly! On the second day, that''s where the real drama unfolds. All participants with their War of Immortals Jades will be thrown into a massive battlefield for an all-out melee. There won''t be any Champions, nor teams. Everyone will fight for their jade. By the end, whoever has the most will undeniably stand as humanity''s top Immortal."

    Yun Xiao turned his gaze to Chen Xi, his thoughts transparent. While she might dominate on day one, she couldn''t possibly defeat every top-tier demon. If she nned to make a mark, it would be during the grand melee on day two.

    "In past War of Immortals, which was an internal affair of our Divine Dawn Empire, factions stuck together during the melee. But now, with the inclusion of other Immortal Empires and the Demon Continent, I reckon it''ll be more like wars between nations, a brawl between humans and demons, right?" Yun Xiao surmised, an eyebrow raised inquisitively.

    Chen Jin grinned, "Exactly! It''s thrilling. All these prodigies, both human and demon, tossed into one cage, and in a set time, one emerges as the supreme. Every alliance, betrayal, and backstabbing will be there for all to see."

    So, the stage was set¡ª

    Day one ¨C Arena Champion Battle or Cycle Battle, pick one.

    Day two ¨C The Grand Melee.

    Who, after two days, would stand atop the heap, holding the greatest number of jades, crowned as the top Immortal? The world watched, breathless in anticipation.

    With a mischievous glint, Yun Xiao said, "In that case, any scoundrels or nefarious demons that Chen Xi might miss during the Cycle Battle on day one will be dealt with by yours truly."

    The first day, he and Chen Xi would take one battleground each. On the second day, would they stand side by side?

    Suddenly, voices echoed from outside. Chen Jin stood up, a bright smile on his face. "Ah, Yun Xiao, ourst two teammates have arrived."

 Chapter 178: Four Protecting One?

    Chapter 178: Four Protecting One?

    Yun Xiao stood up in anticipation. As expected, the first to enter was a youth with deep violet eyes. Stray Dog! Rumor had it that he was the mightiest cultivator within the ny-nine territories of the Immortal Empire''s lower realms, and what''s more, he was a rare Martial Cultivator!

    Following Stray Dog was a young man in a dark red sword robe.

    "Nangong Xu?" Yun Xiao recognized him instantly. He was the nephew of Yun Xiao''s maternal aunt, Nangong Xi, and had previously greeted Yun Xiao in thepany of Old Man Sun. A sword prodigy from the Heavenly Realm!

    "Yun Xiao," Nangong Xu said, a hint of warmth in his gaze, "I hadn''t expected to get the chance to fight by your side so soon." The moment Yun Xiao had confronted the demons in front of the Sword Dao Monument, Nangong Xu had already dreamt of joining him in battle.

    "Brother Nangong." Yun Xiao nodded in acknowledgment.

    And so, the party wasplete. Yun Xiao, Chen Jin, Zhao Xiaotang, Stray Dog, and Nangong Xu!

    Including Yun Xiao, the group represented the Chen n, Spirit Treasure Pce, the prodigies of the lower realms, and the Sword Cultivators of the Heavenly Realm, respectively! This lineup, it could be argued, was the most formidable assembly of talents within the Divine Dawn Empress''s forces, second only to the Azure Leaf faction.

    "Congrattions to all of you," Chen Xi said with a hint of envy. "Like-mindedrades are hard to find, and you''ve managed to gather five in no time." They were set to participate in the Cycle Battle, while she would embark solo, defending the honor of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire.

    "That''s not entirely urate," Chen Jin interjected, looking at Chen Xi. "Including you, we number six. You''re our linchpin. We, as your older brothers, are honored to fight alongside you!"

    "Alright, then we''ll regroup during the Grand Melee on the second day," Chen Xi nodded in agreement.

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    "With the five of us guarding you, anyone who approaches will meet their doom! With us around, you''re destined to be the top Immortal in the human world." Zhao Xiaotang chuckled.

    "Hmph! With someone like you?" Chen Xi shot him a disdainful look.

    The group erupted in light-heartedughter.

    Stray Dog, meeting Chen Jin and Nangong Xu for the first time, felt the camaraderie between the young men grow rapidly. With a grin, he asked, "What should we call our team of five?"

    Scanning the group, Zhao Xiaotang quickly suggested, "How about ''The Macho Men''? We''re all tough guys!"

    "Speak for yourself," Chen Xi teased, "You''re the exception."

    "Seriously?" Zhao Xiaotang struck a dramatic pose, rolling his eyes in jest. "So rude!"

    Yun Xiao managed to stifle a chuckle, but Blue Star nearly burst outughing.

    ncing at the sky, Chen Xi turned to the group. "In that case, Yun Xiao is in your hands. With those five attention-grabbing Sword Rings on his Sword Soul and his insistence on participating, I can''t talk him out of it. So, I''ll have to rely on you all to keep him safe."

    "Don''t fret," Chen Jin took a deep breath, "Last night, we consumed arge amount of Wind Fire Tribtion Pills, deliberately invoking the fifth Wind Fire Tribtion. It was risky, but we made it through. Now, with four of us at the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, we''ll ensure Yun Xiao''s safety."

    Yun Xiao paused, absorbing this revtion. They were going all out for the War of Immortals. To have summoned the Wind Fire Tribtion on purpose¡ªand all four of them taking that gamble¡ªit must''ve been a strategic move from the Supreme Marshal! The mere fact that they were standing there was testament to their sess.

    "Still," Stray Dog interjected, "Factions like Azure Leaf, Violet Sky, and the Demon Continent will likely have Perfect Wind Fire Tribtion Realm contenders make onest push too. So, we mustn''t underestimate our adversaries."

    "Sounds like this Cycle Battle won''t be a walk in the park, huh?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Absolutely not," Chen Jin''s gaze darkened. "And furthermore..."

    "What is it?" the group turned to him, curious.

    Chen Jin smirked coldly, borating, "Our first opponents in the Cycle Battle are handpicked by the Grand Temple. With our team of five being well-known, they''ll definitely arrange a formidable adversary for our first match. It''s their way of making a statement. As for whether we face the Azure Leaf, Violet Sky, or the Demons from the Demon Continent... that''s anyone''s guess."

    "Don''t fret," Chen Xi cast a knowing nce at Yun Xiao, "He won''t be our weak link."

    "Oh?" The group exchanged puzzled nces.

    Yun Xiao was still in the Immortal Meridian Realm, with his most impressive feat being yesterday''s defeat of an Early Wind Fire Tribtion opponent. Yet, Chen Xi seemed unusually confident in him.

    "We should get going."

    Without another word, Chen Xi strode forward, ready to step onto the battlefield.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Royal Banquet Hall, the most famous establishment in the Heavenly Realm. The son of the Prime Minister, You Qingzhi, sauntered into avishly adorned suite at the top floor.

    "You Qingzhi, have you got the list?" Two young men in the room stood to greet him. Known respectively as Xia Jing and Ling Chongxiao, they currently held the third and fourth positions on the Dragon Ranking.

    "I''ve got it," You Qingzhi nced around, inquiring, "Where are Chai Huachi and Mo Xuejin?"

    "Heaven Street again? They didn''t return afterst night''s escapade with the Demon Princes," Xia Jing chuckled.

    Game-ying debutantes by day, and now fawning over demon royalty? You Qingzhi scoffed. "Such eagerpdogs they''ve be."

    Xia Jing and Ling Zhongxiao exchanged a look of distaste.

    Chai Huachi and Mo Xuejin, the two women they spoke of, ranked fifth and sixth on the Dragon Ranking. When Chen Xi had issued her challenge, it was these five¡ªthree men and two women¡ªwho sensed the impending danger and wisely withdrew. So, they didn''t meet the same grim fate as Ye Shengyin and others on the battlefield.

    The You, Chai, Xia, Mo, and Ling ns were all noble families of the Heavenly Realm with millennia of lineage. They were age-old Immortal bureaucrats. In scale and stature, these ns were only slightly inferior to ns like Ye, Chen, Mu, and Han. And in this lofty echelon, You Qingzhi''s father, the Prime Minister, upied the highest rung. Parents of the other four, for their part, were basically the top officials of the Azure Leaf faction.

    "Never mind them, You. Show us the list," Ling Zhongxiao urged.

    "This list is quite the spectacle!" You Qingzhi remarked as he unfurled a scroll, a mysterious grin dancing on his face.

    "Oh?" The other two leaned in. As their eyes scanned the scroll, they burst into incredulousughter.

    "Our opponents are... Chen Jin, Zhao Xiaotang, Nangong Xu, Stray Dog, and Yun Xiao?"

    The three exchanged bemused nces.

    "So it''s... four bodyguards and a piglet?"

    "They''re really fielding him?"

    You Qingzhi smirked coldly, "The Azure Sky Emperor, Mu Tianshi, and my father invested heavily for us to reach the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. We have to prove our worth. And now? They want us to make a roaring entrance for our Immortal Empire, by ughtering that swine."

    "If that''s the case, does Chen Xi even need to defend the arena? She''ll be left guarding an empty house," Xia Jing sneered.

    "They might be pigs, but never underestimate a cornered hog," You Qingzhi warned in a serious tone. "I might not be familiar with this Stray Dog, but the other three could very well be at our level."

    "In a split second, we need to strike the first blow, tipping the scales in our favor with a numerical advantage," Ling Zhongxiao dered, his expression darkening with a hint of ruthlessness.

    "Agreed."

    As they strategized, the door swung open, revealing a striking figure¡ªa regal gentleman with long, lustrous violet hair, a face carved by the gods, and an imposing presence.

    "Your Highness!" You Qingzhi, Xia Jing, and Ling Zhongxiao greeted with broad smiles. "Please, take a seat."

    "Have you gotten the list?"

    The prince of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire seated himself at the head of the room. Before he even stretched out his hand, You Qingzhi, ever the opportunist, handed over the scroll.

    With a fleeting nce, the prince''s lips twitched into a slight smirk. "Looks like you have your work cut out for you right from the start?"

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    Chuckling, You Qingzhi replied, "Eliminating these five would not only avenge the Grand Temple''s past grievances but also rid our world of threats. As schrs, it''s our duty to step up."

    "Then I''ll eagerly await the results." As the prince continued scanning the list, his expression turned cold. "It seems my father has given the position of Arena Champion of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire to my little sister."

    Hearing this, Xia Jing began to speak, admiration evident in his voice. "The seventh princess, at just twelve, has reached the Saint Realm. She truly is..." Before he could continue, You Qingzhi nudged him discreetly, interrupting, "The participants in this Cycle Battle might be a ragtag bunch, but with Your Highness, a Saint, leading them, the standards have been elevated. This Cycle Battle might even overshadow the Arena Champion Battle in terms of hype."

    The prince smirked, ncing sideways at You Qingzhi and mused to himself, "When the tigers are away, the monkeys will y. With the absence of Ye Xingchen, the standards of the Azure Leaf Immortal Empire have dropped."

    What used to be an equal match now tilted in his favor. In this vastnd, among the human nations, the Violet Sky Immortal Empire reigned supreme. These were the perks of cozying up with the demons.

    Stretching leisurely, he said, "All right, bring them in."

    You Qingzhi, with a twinkle in his eye, responded and called out, "Ladies,e on in!"

    The room''s doors swung open, revealing a line of young women with fox tails and cat ears drifting in.

    The prince, casting just a nce, frowned, "Why demons?"

    Caught off guard, You Qingzhi tried to exin, "Your Highness, these are some of the most refined¡­"

    "Half a year in the Demon Continent almost made me puke!" The prince shot him a withering look. "Get another group." After a pause, he added, "Do we have any sword-wielding beauties like Nangong Xi, You Yue, or Su Lianlian?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On the Heavenly Street, a gentle rain pitter-pattered. Moon Fairy walked barefoot, holding a paper umbre, heading towards the Ascension Gate¡ªthe site of the War of Immortals. Beside him, Lady Hua Lian clung to his arm, holding up her dress, resting her head against his shoulder.

    "My little Moon," she whispered.

    "What is it, master?" Moon Fairy responded, his gaze fixed ahead.

    "Would you deceive me?" She looked up, her vibrant eyes searching his.

    He stopped, looked down at her, and softly asked, "Master, why would you say that?"

    "You''ve progressed too rapidly. In just a few days, you''ve reached the Mid Wind Fire Tribtion Realm... They''ll soon notice and study your unique gifts," she murmured eerily. The Will of Divine Destion was indeed a simpler approach. As long as he was provided with Deste Essence, he easily entered the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm.

    "I understand, but why would you think I''d deceive you?" Moon Fairy whispered.

    "Where did you put the Deste Essence I gave you and the rest that you acquired on your own?" Lady Hua Lian gazed at him, her eyes deep pools of mystery.

    Moon Fairy''s gaze remained unyielding. "Master," he murmured, "what if I told you... I consumed it all. Would you believe me?"

    Lady Hua Lian stared at him, momentarily lost for words. Eventually, she softly confessed, "I had already realized."

    "Why didn''t you expose me then?" His eyes held a slight chill as he looked at her.

    "You''re an odd demon," she replied, lifting her head to meet his gaze. "Your thoughts, they''re unlike any other of our kind."

    "Master," Moon Fairy grasped her hand, "you''re as peculiar as me. We''re birds of a feather. Only I understand you in this world."

    She gently nodded. "Mmm."

    "Promise to keep my secret, protect me as I grow. In return, I won''t let you down," he whispered in her ear.

    They locked eyes for a moment, but then she leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder. They continued their journey through the rain, like two foxes traversing a dream.

    After a while, Lady Hua Lian suddenly spoke up, "I have some more Saint Stones left. Let''s get you some more Deste Essence."

    Moon Fairy''s eyes lit up. "Thanks, sugar mama."

    "What?" She bit her lip yfully.

    "My apologies! I meant to say, thank you, Master."

    "You naughty thing," she said with a mix ofughter and tears.

    The rain began to intensify, setting the stage for a rain-soaked War of Immortals tonight. The rain would swiftly wash away the blood that would be spilled.

    Later, Moon Fairy and Lady Hua Lian emerged from a shop specializing in the sale of Deste Essence.

    An oppressive cold aura surged suddenly before them. Moon Fairy nced up to find a young woman in ck standing amid the curtain of rain. Her long hair cascaded down to her waist, her face pale, and two small canine teeth peeked out from the corners of her lips.

    "Lady Hua Lian," the ck-d young woman slightly lifted her gaze, coldly eyeing her.

    "Yes." Lady Hua Lian gave a slight bow and turned to Moon Fairy. "This is the younger sister of the Eclipse Demon Emperor, Tian Lu."

    Pointing at Moon Fairy, the girl in ck inquired, "I''ve heard this little fox is a Primeval Demon?"

    "Yes," Lady Hua Lian nodded.

    "I''m holding the fort tonight and need an attendant. He''ll do," Tian Lu ordered.

    Lady Hua Lian remained silent.

    "This Heavenly Realm is chaotic enough, Lady Hua Lian. My brother is quite displeased with your Fox n, understand?" Tian Lu remarked coldly.

    Stepping forward, Moon Fairy offered, "I''d be honored to serve."

    "Follow," Tian Lumanded, turning and stepping into the downpour. The savage rain wetted her hair, body, and clothing, entuating her delicate figure.

    "Master, I''ll return soon," Moon Fairy called back to Flower Enchantress.

    "Be careful not to offend her," Lady Hua Lian cautioned.

    Moon Fairy nodded, raising his paper umbre to follow Tian Lu. To his surprise, as the umbre neared, the rain around the young woman ceased.

    Tian Lu paused, shooting Moon Fairy a chilly nce. "There''s something odd about you."

    "What''s odd?"

    She smirked, "You don''t seem like a demon, rather more like a human."

    "How so?"

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    "Demons look at the opposite gender and first notice the waist and hips. You, however, look at their face first," she remarked.

    With a smile, Moon Fairy swished his fox tail. The tail marked him as a demon. No exnation needed. And so, the two of them, a man and a woman, strolled under the umbre, walking through the curtain of rain. Looking up, they saw that the primary battleground was already bustling with a sea of people.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 179: Let the Battle Begin!

    Chapter 179: Let the Battle Begin!

    A grand Ascension Gate towered before the pce of the Divine Dawn Empress. A gateway that guarded the fate of the nation! Majestic and dominant, it set the tone for the four corners of the realm.

    In front of this gatewayy an expanse of open ground, the very site of the War of Immortals. This was the most revered ce in the Immortal Empire, only opening its gates for solemn asions like today.

    The area surrounding the gateway was bustling with businesses. Inns, taverns, tea houses, and flower shops lined the streets, experiencing their most profitable day in history. They had been fully booked for days!

    Rooms and spectator seats were being sold for exorbitant prices. Without status or wealth, one didn''t even have the privilege of watching.

    Even though it was still afternoon and torrential rain was pouring, hundreds of thousands of spectators had already taken their seats!

    This was the liveliest day in the Heavenly Realm in millennia, all thanks to the Divine Dawn Empress''s spousal selection. Wealth was just one part of the grand gains from this event.

    At that moment, all eyes converged on the towering Ascension Gate. Erected around it were various towers and honored seats. A radiant barrier of magic power hovered above these structures, shielding them from the rain.

    "Both Demon Emperors, the five Immortal Empire Emperors, 108 Saints of the Demon n, officials from various Immortal Empires, have all taken their seats!" The peak powers and rulers of both the Divine Continent and Demon Continent were essentially all gathered together. A spectacle not seen in ten thousand years! How could the War of Immortals not be a sensation?

    <em>HUM! </em>When a figure in golden-red dragon robes appeared atop the highest seat of the gateway, the hundreds of thousands present saluted in unison, chanting together, "Long live our Empress!"

    Such a fervent and robust roar instantly shook the entirety of the Heavenly Realm!

    The demons from the Demon Continent and the guests from the other Immortal Empires felt a tingling down their spines.

    From this chant alone, it was clear. The Divine Dawn Empress''s reputation soared, casting a shadow over the entire nation with her might. Thinking they could easily overthrow her? Laughable!

    "Humans, such a fickle bunch!" a cunning demonmented. "They''ll lift you to the heavens when you''re in favor, but won''t hesitate to crush you underfoot when you''re not, each eager to add their weight. Let''s see how the Empress fares in the end," he snickered with disdain.

    There were many conflicting motives at the Ascension Gate, an undercurrent of tension bubbling below the surface. Yet, the Divine Dawn Empress remained unfazed.

    She stood proudly in her elevated position, her red lips parting slightly: "By the decree of the heavens, I''ve summoned the elite to gather for this battle, to determine the top Immortal!" Her voice resonated like thunder, shaking the Heavenly Realm, echoing with the sound of ps and rumbles.

    Then, she pointed her elegant finger towards the open ground before the Ascension Gate and dered, "Activate the War of Immortals battleground!" At hermand, a massive, perfectly square battlefield formation materialized in the open space.

    For a moment, blinding brilliance filled the sky! The entire battleground was divided into two sections. To the left, there were sixteen golden arenas, spaced apart. To the right, it resembled a checkerboard of ck and white squares. Though referred to as squares, each was more than three thousand feet in both length and width, spacious enough for dozens to duel within.

    On the left¡ªthe Arena Champion Battle!

    On the right¡ªthe Cycle Battle!

    To the left, countless challengers locked their eyes on the sixteen gleaming golden arena stages, itching to topple the prodigies and leap to immortal fame in a single bound. The bigger the grudge one drew and the more they endured, the more War of Immortal Jades they''d earn!

    To the right, teams of five fought in tandem, conquering one small square after another, expanding their battleground. The more consecutive victories one achieved, the richer in War of Immortal Jades they became!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The grandest battlefield in history unfurled in all its glory. This entirely enclosed and fair arena, with its vastness and prestige, elicited cheers from hundreds of thousands. The battle hadn¡¯t even begun, but just witnessing this magnificent battlefield set hearts ame!

    Such a ce of honor made even the Star Schr tform of the Grand Temple seem dim inparison.

    After the battlefield was set, the Divine Dawn Empress turned to her esteemed guests seated on either side, dering, "I''ve arranged the Immortal Banquet at the pce. Two Demon Emperors and Five Emperors, please attend."

    To her left were Red Lotus and Xiao Tian¡ªa radiant woman surrounded by blossoms, exuding allure, and a chilling young man with hair cascading to the ground. To her right was Emperor Violet, apanied by the Emperors of the other four Immortal Empires. Including the Divine Dawn Empress, these were the eight monarchs of both the Divine Continent and Demon Continent!

    The Feast of the Immortal Empire was an exclusive banquet for these seven rulers. Even Ye Qingtian wasn¡¯t worthy of an invite. This rified that during the Cycle Battle and Arena Champion Battle of the first day, neither the Divine Dawn Empress nor the seven rulers would be watching. Their true battleground for the day would be the high-stakes Feast of the Immortal Empire.

    The atmosphere vibrated with anticipation.

    Eight imposing figures broke through the curtain of rain, entering the pce of the Divine Dawn Empress under the reverent gazes of thousands. Their entrance brought a palpable sense of relief to the spectators, alleviating the tension they felt.

    Soon after, from the second tier of the Ascension Gate, a figure from the Heavenly Realm emerged to represent the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire. A middle-aged man in a regal blue robe stood tall, his long hair neatly pulled back, emanating authority and grace. This was Prime Minister You Fengya.

    In the Heavenly Realm, right beneath the Divine Dawn Empress, four paramount leaders held sway¡ªthe Head of the Ancestral Temple, Ye Qingtian; the Supreme Marshall of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, Chen Xiao; the Sage of the Grand Temple; and, of course, You Fengya. Their duties spanned ns, military affairs, legacies, and governance. The Grand Temple Sage, having been executed for his blunt advice, had been temporarily reced by his son, Mu Tianshi.

    While the Divine Dawn Empress hosted the Immortal Banquet, You Fengya, Ye Qingtian, Chen Xiao, and Mu Tianshi stayed behind to oversee the War of Immortals. And their presence alone was a powerful statement.

    To their left sat the 108 Demon Saints, their figures shrouded in a chilling mixture of dark and blood-red mists. These malevolent beings brought dread to the hearts of all human onlookers from the Heavenly Realm.

    On their right, the Immortal officials from the various states of the Divine Continent gathered. Those who could sit there, like Qi Lan, were of an elite caliber. In total, there were 150 of them. And everyone knew that these 150 wouldn''t stand a chance against the 108 Demon Saints on the other side.

    Then, You Fengya took center stage. He spoke in lofty rhetoric, showcasing the profound history of the Immortal Empire. He expressed warm wees to the guests from all directions. With eloquence and flourish, he spoke for half an hour, covering all the necessary pleasantries.

    The eloquence of the Immortal Empire''s Prime Minister was on full disy, and he certainly knew how tomand a room. But it wasn''t until the end of his speech that he spoke the words everyone had been breathlessly waiting for.

    "To all who will be battling: wear the War of Immortals Jade and enter either the Cycle Battle or the Arena Champion Battle in shifts! At midnight, the battle begins!"

    And midnight, everyone knew, technically meant the next day.

    A collective buzz surged through the audience at the announcement.

    "I heard the split between the Arena Champion Battle and the Cycle Battle is fifty-fifty!" one voice rang out.

    "That means five thousand will be cannon fodder in the Arena Champion Battle. How can those sixteen super-geniuses survive such odds?"

    "You''ve got it wrong! A real genius can''t be exhausted. To be the top Immortal and win the Empress''s hand, one must have the talent to stand against a thousand!" someone retorted.

    "As expected, one of those sixteen will surely emerge victorious!"

    "This Arena Champion Battle will be quite a spectacle," another chimed in.

    "Hold your horses, ce your bets! The entire Heavenly Realm''s gone mad with wagering!"

    Every betting house was in business, and there were many ways to bet on this War of Immortals. For instance, you could wager on how many consecutive victories Chen Xi would achieve, which team would have the highest streak, or how many humans would rank in the top ten... Rumor had it that there were hundreds of such betting options.

    But among them, the most thrilling and hottest bet was on the champion of the tournament. Who would ascend to the title of the number one Immortal in thend? The answer would be revealed in just two days.

    Each betting house set their odds based on their assessments of the contenders'' profiles, their estimatedbat capabilities, and even personal enmities. Business, after all, was strictly business. Everyone might have their favorites, but few would let that get in the way of potential profits.

    When you surveyed the odds across all the betting houses in the Heavenly Realm, a pattern emerged. The four contenders with the highest odds were all Demon Princes and Princesses from the Demon Continent. Among the humans, the one with the highest odds was the seventh princess of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire. Recent rumors of her achieving the Saint Realm were probably why she had climbed to fifth ce on the odds board. The better the odds, the better the chances of winning.

    Presently, Chen Xi sat at the thirteenth ce on the odds board, the lowest-ranked among those in the Saint Realm. The Violet Sky prince, though not a main contender, still ranked above her. Still, Chen Xi was better off than the Champions of the other four Immortal Empires. Being only in the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm and with a high likelihood of being toppled in the Arena Champion Battle, they all had odds ranking them below fiftieth ce.

    The very idea that a Champion and seeded participant had odds of eighty to one was downright humiliating.

    But that was how betting works. The odds reflected the most objective and cautious judgments of the public''s heart. While everyone in the Heavenly Realm dreamt of Chen Xi taking the crown, when it came to cing their bets, many slyly ced their money on the few with the higher odds from the Demon Continent. Sure, the return might be less, but the chance of winning was significantly higher. Even if the odds were just three to one, it was still a tidy profit.

    "At least if our race loses," many reasoned, "I''d still win some money."

    Everyone in the Heavenly Realm was cing bets, even throughout the lower realms. The Demon Continent, unfamiliar with suchplex economic behaviors, was utterly fascinated. Mimicking the humans, the demons, with their innate gambler spirits, ced heavy bets.

    Now, with tens of thousands ofpetitors ready for the first day''s battle, the betting would soon close. Why was the first battlefield activated at this time, but the actual battle scheduled for midnight? The answer¡ªbetting.

    Previous Wars of Immortals were internal affairs of the Heavenly Realm, but they still saw a lot of wagers. Most of the gambling dens in the Heavenly Realm were controlled by the elite ns of the Azure Leaf faction. For them, this was a golden opportunity.

    In a scandalous turn of events, there were even rumors of the Royal Ye Family rigging matches and conning the public of their hard-earned cash¡ªa stain on their reputation they could never wash away.

    But this time, the public wasn''t worried. Most trusted Spirit Treasure Pce, which had roots in the Immortal Empire and had the trust of the Divine Dawn Empress in the Heavenly Realm.

    And so, as the gambling dens of the Heavenly Realm saw frenzied betting, the tens of thousands of warriors readied themselves. Humans and demons squared off, their eyes filled with fierce determination.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Chen Jin and Nangong Xu were standing together in the crowd.

    "Why hasn''t Yun Xiao arrived yet?" Chen Jin asked, clenching a card with <em>#1</em> inscribed on it. This meant they''d be on battlefield number one and the first ones to fight in the Cycle Battle, providing a feast to the eyes of spectators.

    "He went back to the Spirit Treasure Pce with Stray Dog and Little Tang. They haven''t returned yet. I hope nothing''s wrong," Nangong Xu replied, a slight furrow in his brow.

    "They should be fine," Chen Jin tried to reassure, "I''ve heard the Empress arranged a personal protector for Yun Xiao."

    As he spoke, Chen Jin felt a cold shiver run down his spine. Turning around, he spotted You Qingzhi and his posse¡ªtwo men and two women¡ªstanding at a distance. They too were waving a card marked with <em>#1 </em>inscribed on it, shooting taunting grins their way.

    "Reading too many books can grease up one''s brains," Chen Jin muttered, choosing to ignore them. He never quite fit in with that lot, anyway.

    Night fell, and almost allpetitors had arrived, when Yun Xiao, Zhao Xiaotang, and Stray Dog finally strolled in, fashionablyte.

    "What took you?" Chen Jin inquired.

    Zhao Xiaotang hopped up, pointing at Yun Xiao, "Chen Jin, your brother-inw is absolutely mad!"

    "Quiet! Who''s the mad one here?" Chen Jin retorted, rolling his eyes.

    "He''s nuts, for real. He bet on himself to win the whole thing¡ª100,000 Saint Stones!" Zhao Xiaotang eximed, eyes wide in disbelief.

    "Damn! Saint Stones? Not Spirit Stones?" Chen Jin''s eyes nearly bulged out, his voice rising.

    "Indeed, 100,000 Saint Stones," Stray Dog confirmed with a resigned chuckle.

    "And the odds?" Nangong Xu asked, curiosity piqued.

    "One to a thousand!" Zhao Xiaotang shuddered, "That''s the highest our Spirit Treasure Pce offers. Given his skills and level, even one to ten thousand would''ve been fair game."

    "Is he the underdog in the betting pool then?" Chen Jin asked, a bit dazed.

    "Obviously!" Zhao Xiaotang chuckled, "Only a hundred people are listed in the betting odds. He''s only on the list because of his special status."

    "Did anyone else bet on him?" Nangong Xu probed.

    "Yes," Zhao Xiaotang replied with a mischievous grin, "Seeing him bet 100,000 Saint Stones, I thought he might be ying a trick. So I thought why not and followed with a bet of 10,000 Saint Stones."

    "I tossed in 5,000," Stray Dog added.

    Chen Jin and Nangong Xu shared a look of disbelief.

    "Speaking of which, do you guys want to ce a bet? I can arrange it for you," Zhao Xiaotang winked.

    Chen Jin looked at Yun Xiao, hesitating, "Look, brother, you know I''m a bit strapped for cash..."

    "Just do it," Yun Xiao replied with a smirk.

    Stunned, Chen Jin turned back to Zhao Xiao Tang, "Arrange it. I''m in for 10,000 Saint Stones."

    "I''ll put in 5,000," Nangong Xu added sheepishly.

    The camaraderie amongst the group was undeniable, even if they were skeptical deep down. After all, Yun Xiao was only in the Immortal Meridian Realm. Where did such confidencee from?

    Just as they mused, a hauntingly beautiful voice called out, "Betting on yourself to win?"

    Yun Xiao turned to find Chen Xi, d in an ethereal white gown, arms folded, ring at him.

    "Yes," he simply replied.

    "Do you even take me seriously?" she snapped, her eyes shining with challenge. She had just bet 50,000 Saint Stones on herself!

    "You''re always in my heart," Yun Xiao teased.

    "Ha!" Zhao Xiaotang burst intoughter, followed by Chen Jin. Thetter knew his younger cousin had always been a force to be reckoned with. Only Yun Xiao dared to flirt with her so audaciously.

    Chen Xi, flustered, pulled Yun Xiao aside, "You dare challenge me, you shameless ruffian?"

    Yun Xiao blinked, replying calmly, "You can always turn around and leave."

    Chen Xi''s confidence wavered. She was about to represent the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire in the contest. She couldn''t afford to lose her nerve now.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao reached out, pulling her close, whispering, "How about we make a personal bet between us?"

 Chapter 180: Cycle Battle, Start! (1)

    Chapter 180: Cycle Battle, Start! (1)

    "What are we betting on?" Chen Xi''s face turned a shade of pink. In such a grand setting, it was hardly appropriate for her to wriggle out.

    "How about whoever collects the most War of Immortals Jades by the end of the first day''s battle?" Yun Xiao proposed.

    Chen Xi chuckled, "Your breakthroughst night sent you flying high, didn''t it? Bragging in front of me now, are we?"

    "Enough chit-chat! Are you in or not?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "I start with 99 more War of Immortal Jades than you," Chen Xi remarked with an air of nonchnce.

    "No worries. Consider it a handicap," Yun Xiao replied confidently.

    "Have youe down with a fever?" Chen Xi said, yfully checking his forehead.

    "Are you in or not?"

    "Of course, I am! But mark my words; no teaming up with the other four to let you win!" Chen Xi warned.

    "With hundreds of thousands of eyes on us, I''d never cheat," Yun Xiao assured.

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    "What''s the stake?" Chen Xi inquired.

    "If I win, you have to promise me one thing," Yun Xiao said.

    "What might that be?" Chen Xi eyed him suspiciously, sensing mischief in the air.

    Grasping her hand and gazing deeply into her eyes, Yun Xiao whispered, "From this moment on, you don''t get to die unless I give you the nod."

    With that, he yfully pinched her cheek, and then, arm in arm with Stray Dog and Zhao Xiaotang, confidently strode into the War of Immortals.

    And Chen Xi? She remained, momentarily stunned.

    Afterward, the duo, radiant as sculpted jade, each headed to their designated section¡ªthe Arena Champion Battle and the Cycle Battle!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At tform number one Yun Xiao, alongside his fourpanions, stepped onto one of the square cells on the checkerboard battlefield.

    The square stretched three thousand feet in both length and width. Towering walls encircled them, reaching heights of over a thousand feet. Above them, a translucent formation sealed the ceiling, forbidding any escape by flight.

    In essence, five thousand prodigious talents participating in the Cycle Battle were now caged like birds in ornate boxes!

    "After entering, I can''t keep an eye on Chen Xi''s situation anymore... As if!" Yun Xiao mused internally. Over at the Arena Champion Battle, the Moon Fairy''s eyes remained sharp. Every movement on that side was within Yun Xiao''s knowledge. Now, it was a waiting game.

    While it seemed like they were waiting for midnight, in truth, they were awaiting the final bets from every corner. The entire Heavenly Realm lit up, a dazzling disy against the night. Tensions brewed beneath the surface. Hundreds of thousands held their breaths in anticipation.

    Stuck on the battle tform and with time on his hands, Yun Xiao decided to cultivate. He began to consume pills that would attract the Wind Fire Tribtion, hoping to harness its power.

    "Probably in the thick of the fight, that tribtion will descend upon me," Yun Xiao sensed.

    Meanwhile, Chen Jin and the rest were gearing up, their final push before the grand event. Their eyes fixed on the ck walls of the adjacent square. Beyond those walls were the elite talents of the Azure Leaf faction, ready for the showdown.

    Without a doubt, they had all reached the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. Even though the barriers remained intact, tension crackled between the two sides, like oil meeting water.

    Their battlefield was not just any stage¡ªit was the Heavenly Realm''s chosen showcase and the very focus of the Cycle Battle.

    The air was thick with anticipation.

    And then, the War of Immortals finally began.

    ¡°The Ascension Board!¡± A gleaming golden leaderboard appeared high in the sky. Though it held three hundred spots, only sixteen names were currently etched upon it, each followed by the number one hundred. It symbolized their golden War of Immortal Jades.

    Each name was preceded by a realm''s designation. Yun Xiao''s eyes scanned the entries,nding on¡ª

    "Divine Dawn Immortal Empire - Chen Xi: 100 pts"

    "Demon Continent - Tian Lu: 100 pts"

    "Only those with more than two War of Immortal jade tokens will be listed," Yun Xiao surmised. The leaderboard updated in real-time, so once his name made the cut, it would be apanied by which nation he represented¡ªDivine Dawn Immortal Empire.

    With the board''s appearance, the majority of the Heavenly Realm''s cultivators'' gazes converged on one name¡ªChen Xi.

    "Who''d have thought in our Immortal Empire, both our ruler and our top prodigy would be women?" a voice mused.

    No sooner had the words settled, than the entire War of Immortal battleground began to tremble.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Ascension Gate, You Fengya nced back, locking eyes with both Mu Tianshi and Ye Qingtian. Their gazes, intentional or not, slid over to the Supreme Marshal who stood near the railing, his presence chillingly distant.

    "Five against four. We ughter them like pigs! Strategy, tactics, trump cards¡ªall are in ce," Mu Tianshi dered, his face a mask of gloom.

    "That Yun Xiao only wants to fight a round, unt his Sword Soul in public, and humiliate the demons to boost morale. We must annihte him with thunderous might to prove our loyalty to the Demon Continent," You Fengya stated.

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    Had this not been the case, Mu Tianshi probably would have sent the Violet Sky Immortal Empire or the Demon Continent representatives to face Yun Xiao''s team. Put inly, they wanted to handle their dirtyundry themselves. Their reputation was at stake! As for the oue? It was all just a gamble.

    "It''s a shame," Ye Qingtian remarked somberly. "If Xingchen were still with us, with someone of his caliber, why would we fret about this?"

    Hearing this, You Fengya bristled with displeasure. The one leading the charge for their side now was his own son! With the battle about tomence, it wasn''t the time to reminisce about someone long gone, the grass grown over his grave.

    Swallowing his irritation, You Fengya stepped into the spotlight, his gaze piercingly fixed on his son. Midnight had arrived. With an imposing aura, he thundered, "On behalf of the Immortal Empire, I dere that the War of Immortals begins!"

    His promation echoed, setting the night aze. A cacophony of cheers erupted, the collective roar shaking the heavens and the earth. All bets were closed. The entire Heavenly Realm was wide awake, every eye focused on the first battlefield. The battleground rumbled and vibrated!

    On the Arena Champion tforms, the real challenges began, one after the other.

    Meanwhile, in the Cycle Battle area, the towering walls that separated the squares suddenly sank. What were once two separate squares now fused into one arena, as if two insects had been trapped together in a sealed room.

    "Look at the first square!" many voices cried out.

    Ny percent of the onlookers fixated their gaze on this ce. This wasrgely because the early bouts during the Arena Champion battle were rather one-sided, and there weren''t any evenly matched fights in the Cycle Battle yet. The spotlight of the opening round was solely on tform number one.

    At the heart of this spectacle was the proverbial pig protected by four guards.

    "Stay sharp! Protect Yun Xiao!" Chen Jin and the others were visibly on edge.

    With his military background, Chen Jin led with strict discipline. Stray Dog, the Martial Cultivator with a physique akin to a demon, stood towering by his side. Nangong Xu and Zhao Xiaotang positioned themselves on his left and right.

    Yun Xiao stood safeguarded in the rear-middle, heavily protected. Observing this formation, many whispered, "He really is the sacrificialmb..."

    Many were aware of Yun Xiao''s purpose for joining the battle. Rumor had it he aimed to publicly disy the Eternal Joy''s Sword Ring, to intimidate the Demon Continent and boost the morale and confidence of the human race. It was a critical move!

    Opposing him was the likes of You Qingzhi and his group, determined to prevent such a disy.

    The moment the walls lowered, the five students from the Grand Temple who had taken the lead in the protest days earlier, appeared before everyone. Radiating righteousness and wrapped in an aura of nobility, they had the demeanor of their elders.

    True representatives of the Grand Temple!

    "Yun Xiao! You shouldn''t have..." You Qingzhi, amplifying his voice, was about toy some moral usations, setting the stage for a lethal move. However, before he could finish, a sudden sh of white streaked from the opposite side.

    "Where did he go?" Even Chen Jin felt the swift blur of that white figure.

    Stunned, he whipped his head around. The figure they had been so ardently protecting, their <em>pig</em> had vanished from behind them.

    "Look there!" Zhao Xiaotang''s eyes widened, pointing ahead.

    Chen Jin, Stray Dog, and Nangong Xu looked up. There, floating above the heads of You Qingzhi''s group, was Yun Xiao.

    The youth in white robes waved his hand with a flourish.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The night sky erupted with five consecutive, thunderous explosions. Out of nowhere, five massive balls of fire formed, zing like five suns hanging simultaneously.

    With a downward push of his palm, those fiery orbs streaked across the sky, illuminating the heavens, before crashing down onto the unsuspecting quintet.

    "What the heck...?" A dazzling young woman named Chai Huachi went pale.

    "Elemental Scripture, Fire God''s Wrath!" You Qingzhi eximed in horror.

    The five of them acted quickly, hastily conjuring defensive daoist spells. But they were evidently too slow.

    Their spells had barely taken shape when the massive fireballs descended upon them, engulfing them entirely. A raging inferno spread out, and the five now charred figures were sent hurtling through the air.

    At the Ascension Gate, at least a dozen officials from various Immortal Empires shot to their feet.

    "Impossible!" Mu Tianshi''s eyes nearly popped out of his sockets. He growled, "Fire God''s Wrath, how can there be five of them?"

    Since the inception of the Grand Temple, there had always been just one! But now, there were five! Each one with a force several times mightier than when Yun Xiao had obliterated the demons in the Grand Temple. And all this in just a few days?

    The battle had barely started, and Mu Tianshi''s heart felt like it had been pummeled with rage, teetering on the brink of copse. Everyone knew Yun Xiao was a prodigious genius. But his prowess always seemed to be one step ahead of everyone''s wildest imaginations.

    Five Fire God''s Wraths, unleashed with such formidable force, rattled the entire battlefield in a single move.

    And then, Yun Xiaonded on the ground with a resounding thud! With a thunderous roar, the ground quaked mightily, and countless mounds of dirt and rock surged like a tidal wave!

    "Go!" The youth in white robes gestured sharply, and those mounds of dirt transformed instantly into golden sands, striking the five prodigies from the Grand Temple who were at the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. It was like molten metal being poured!

    "Ahh!" Chai Huachi was a moment toote with her defense, unable to escape the mad rush of golden sand. She was ensnared by the molten gold, turning her on the spot into a gilded statue.

    <!--

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    In her final moments, her face held nothing but sheer disbelief.

    What kind of monster was this?<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 181: Cycle Battle, Start! (2)

    Chapter 181: Cycle Battle, Start! (2)

    "Elemental Scripture, Golden World Domination..."

    The Grand Temple''s daoist spell, wielded by Yun Xiao, surpassed even that of their wise sages and ancestors!

    "Huachi!" At the Ascension Gate, an official from the Azure Leaf faction spat out blood in shock. She was the first to fall in the War of Immortals, unable to withstand the consecutive assaults of the Fire God''s Wraths and the Golden World Domination. The remaining four managed to escape the initial onught, jolting awake from the brutal start.

    "Regroup! Assist each other with your spells!" You Qingzhi shouted desperately, his once righteously indignant demeanor now tainted with palpable dread. The strategies they''d rehearsed before the battle were now utterly useless. Wasn''t this supposed to be a four-protect-one strategy? Damn it, it felt more like one-protect-four!

    Once the four Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm prodigies regrouped and caught their breath, they unleashed every technique, magic treasure, and shield they had, putting up amendable defense.

    Hovering in the air, the young man in white looked down with eyes cold as ice. <em>HUM! </em>His azure Sword Soul burst forth, whirling and howling in the center of his palm. The piercing sound it made reverberated across the battlefield.

    Five Sword Rings¡ªOne Emperor and Four Saints¡ªand 250yers of Sword Aura!

    With the unveiling of that Sword Soul, just as predicted, the humans throughout the Heavenly Realm, after witnessing the grim fate of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, erupted in fervent cheers. Their united spirit surged to an all-time high.

    A harmonious buzz sounded.

    Five demon magics wound themselves around the Sword Soul¡ª

    Dragon Saint, Roaring Cloud Dragon

    Fox Saint, Ghostly Blood Pool

    Thunder Saint, Pr Thunder Strike

    Eagle Saint, Skydome Tempest

    The cloud dragon, the mysterious blood pool, the violet-crimson electric serpents, and the raging storm wrapped themselves around the Sword Soul, immensely amplifying its destructive power.

    But the most terrifying of all was the death technique from the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor¡ªNight March of a Hundred Ghosts! It was a soul-based ocr technique. As the Sword Ring began its rotation, it seemed as though ny-nine bloody eyes materialized on Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul. Each eye harbored a malevolent spirit. It earned the moniker Night March of a Hundred Ghosts because the Demon Emperor himself was the hundredth specter. And it was just as apt for Yun Xiao; he was an embodiment of lethal force.

    It was arguably the most luxurious Sword Soul the Heavenly Realm had seen since the ancient wars between humans and demons.

    With the Sword Soul in y and the demon magics lighting up the horizon, the excitement nearly overwhelmed the onlookers. "Damn, that''s too cool!" one shouted. Good looks alone were ordinary. Butbining them with prowess? That was scene-stealing.

    From that moment, every young woman in the Heavenly Realm audience stood in unison.

    Under the glow of that Sword Soul, You Qingzhi and his other three schrly peers, who once fancied themselves as elegant and gifted, looked as insignificant as street rats.

    "Kill him!" You Qingzhi, masking his shame, roared with a twisted face.

    Yet, just as he spoke, and even before the Grand Temple''s young prodigies could mobilize their spells and magic treasures, a Flying Sword, infused with the five demon magics, had already shot down from the heavens.

    Admittedly, Yun Xiao still had room to grow in terms of cultivation. But his Sword Soul? It was a beast in its own league. What''s more, he practiced both swordsmanship and daoist spells. An explosivebination!

    As the Flying Sword soared, countless tendrils on the groundshed out, shattering the protective shields of You Qingzhi and hispatriots in a heartbeat.

    "It''s the Constetion ying Sword, Meteor Shower!"

    A sword, buried by the sands of time, was instantly recognized, sending shockwaves of amazement through the crowd. With a single stroke, the sword dazzled tenfold, reminiscent of falling stars. But which glint was real?

    You Qingzhi growled, sweeping with the Mountain Measuring Ruler, a Gxy grade magic treasure his father had lent him.

    <em>KLANG! </em>The Sword Soul collided with the artifact, sending sparks flying.

    "Argh!" You Qingzhi might have withstood the sword''s force, but when the bewitching power of the Night March of a Hundred Ghosts mingled with the fury of the four other demon magics crashed into him, it sent chills down his spine. The horror overcame him, and his anguished screams filled the air. This was the demon magic of a Demon Emperor. What clung to the de was the devilish power of an unrivaled being in the Demon Continent!

    Darkness enveloped You Qingzhi. As the Mountain Measuring Ruler trembled above, it crushed down on him, splitting his skull wide open.

    <em>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </em>Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword grazed the ruler, piercing through You Qingzhi''s chest, leaving a gaping wound.

    <em>THUD! </em>With eyes wide, You Qingzhi dropped to his knees, then fell face down. After a mere twitch, hey still.

    "Brother You!" The remaining three¡ªXia Jing, Ling Zhongxiao, and Mo Xuejin¡ªwere paralyzed with shock, their eyes nearly popping out of their sockets. They couldn''t fathom how someone at the Immortal Meridian Realm could wield such terrifying power. Just a day earlier, Yun Xiao had only faced off against Kong Ming, who was merely at the Early Wind Fire Tribtion Realm...

    "We surrender!"

    <em>THUD THUD THUD! </em>Without hesitation, the trio quickly presented their War of Immortal Jades. But in the next moment, Yun Xiao recalled his Flying Sword and transformed it into a three-foot de. He didn''t hesitate and lunged at them with murderous intent.

    <em>Constetion ying Sword! Palm Sword, Streaking Comet!</em>

    With a flourish of his de, Yun Xiao''s three-foot azure de transformed into a zinget. Its endless aura loomed ominously over the heads of the three surrendered fighters.

    "Wha¡ª?" Though they had ceased to fight, Yun Xiao unleashed his full might upon them. And so, with that single Streaking Comet, the three were swiftly and gruesomely reduced to dust, their remains scattering like confetti.

    All that remained were three War of Immortal Jades and six stunned arms floating in mid-air.

    And just like that, all five opponents met their demise.

    "As long as my sword is swift enough, your cries of surrender will never reach another''s ears!" Yun Xiao''s fury was palpable. Treacherous creatures that betrayed their own kind for demons? Surrender?

    While he despised the demons, he reserved a special brand of loathing for those akin to deceitful beings like Ye Tiance. Ye Tiance was but one man, limited in his schemes. However, these traitors and their lineage were the true masters of exploiting humanity throughout the ages. And to add insult to injury, they painted themselves as saintly figures, benevolent and moral.

    Using morality as their weapon, they ostracized others. Such hypocrisy was the most revolting. So, any talk of surrender?

    With a speed that betrayed his ferocity, Yun Xiao collected the three War of Immortal Jades and used his sword to scoop up the jade from You Qingzhi. He then skillfully extracted the jade embedded within the golden statue of Chai Huachi.

    In no time, his number of War of Immortal Jades reached six, propelling him to the seventeenth rank on the Ascension Board.

    Divine Dawn Immortal Empire - Yun Xiao: 6 pts!

    "That was... unexpected," came the murmurs.

    The entire duel was brief, but the spectacle it presented surpassed the audience''s wildest imaginations.

    Back on the Ascension tform, Ye Qingtian, You Fengya, and Mu Tianshi simultaneously sank into their seats. They exchanged nces, their eyes bloodshot. They had been cautious, estimating their odds at six to four in their favor. Now, they found themselves wholly on the losing end.

    Before any of them could utter a word, deafening cheers erupted throughout the Heavenly Realm. The name Yun Xiao resonated, echoing to the high heavens. The once revered Azure Leaf faction''s glory was utterly trampled beneath his feet.

    Who in their right mind would pine for the old dynasty?

    ¡°Was that a spectacle? Not sure, let¡¯s watch again.¡±

    No matter how many nces one took, the young man in white, brandishing his sword, continued to captivate the audience.

    With the might of a lone warrior, he overshadowed the splendor of the entire battlefield. Even the dazzling duels happening in the Arena Champion Battle section seemedckluster inparison.

    The roar persisted. Among those watching up close, Chen Jin and hispanions stood frozen, as if turned to wood.

    "What''re you all gawking at? Join me, or else risk leaving here empty-handed," Yun Xiao turned and remarked with a wry smile.

    "Dang, dang, dang..." Zhao Xiaotang burst into a string of curses, gripped Chen Jin andughed uproariously, "Jin, we might just hit the jackpot!"

    "Indeed..." Chen Jin, Stray Dog, and Nangong Xu found their eyes glowing with anticipation. Money, to them, wasn''t the primary goal. What they sought were honor, revenge, and justice. With Yun Xiao leading, they''d achieve it all. So, at that very moment, a fire was ignited in their eyes.

    "ording to the Cycle Battle rules, the quicker the victory, the faster the entry into the next battle! And the more War of Immortal Jades we can obtain!"

    The formation beneath their feet started shifting. A new opponent would soon arrive.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes turned frosty as he surveyed the changing formation, murderous intent surging. "Theoretically, if we fight fast enough, most teams in the Cycle Battle will have to face us!"

    So, that previous battle was just the beginning.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    To the left of the Ascension tform, sat 108 Demon Saints. One by one, they focused intently on Yun Xiao, eyes bloodshot.

    Each anguished wail from the Sword Rings was a stab at their very being. Bloody tears streamed down their faces. Their expressions grew increasingly grim. With a cold turn of their heads, they stared in the direction of the pce.

    "Man and demon can coexist, but Divine Dawn must perish!"

    As long as the Divine Dawn Empress was gone, Yun Xiao''s fate was inconsequential.

 Chapter 182: Twin Stars of the Heavenly Realm!

    Chapter 182: Twin Stars of the Heavenly Realm!

    BOOM BOOM BOOM! The name Yun Xiao thunderously echoed in the Arena Champion Battle. For a moment, countless challengers nced sideways, their gaze drawn to the adjacent Cycle Battle''s chessboard. Puzzlement danced in their eyes.

    "Is that triumphant shout because the boy''s dead?" someone wondered.

    "Could be!" A group of talents from the Demon Continent snickered, their grins wide and mischievous. Being in the midst of the chaos, they were blind to the truth.

    "Something''s off," one mused, "that cheer is too ecstatic, not like he''s dead..."

    They looked up and were dumbfounded. Yun Xiao had already appeared on the Ascendent Board. The murmurs traveled fast, "Did you hear? Yun Xiao single-handedly defeated the top five talents from the Dragon Ranking!"

    "What?!" Compared to the enclosed Cycle Battle, the Arena Champion Battle was an open book, news spreading like wildfire. In no time, both the sixteen Champions and the five thousand challengers were in the know.

    "One against five?" Chen Xi had just taken care of her first challenger. She peered at the chessboard battlefield, biting her red lips, determination glowing in her eyes.

    "Come on!" she urged the next challenger, her voice filled with impatience and spirit. Who wouldn''t want their name to resonate through the Heavenly Realm and both the Divine and Demon Continent?

    For a moment, all the Champions started epting challengers with even more fervor! On one of the golden arena stages, a young woman with waist-length hair, dressed in intricate ck, dispatched a human challenger with a single p, sending his head flying.

    Upon hearing Yun Xiao''s name, her brows furrowed coldly.

    "Little fox!" The young woman in ck turned. Beside her stage stood a silver-haired individual, androgynous in appearance, with three peculiar fox tails. He exuded an eerie and mysterious aura.

    Hearing her call, Moon Fairy, with a white wet cloth, gently wrapped it around her hand, meticulously wiping away the blood. Servant! That was his current job.

    "Human blood... it stinks," the young woman in ck remarked with disdain, eyeing a group of fiery-eyed human challengers around her, then said to Moon Fairy, "Clean it better."

    She was a stickler for cleanliness! Given the number of individuals she''d have to dispatch today, thest thing she wanted was to be drenched in blood by the day''s end.

    Moon Fairy, with his head lowered, meticulously cleaned between her jade-like fingers until they gleamed spotlessly.

    With a swift motion, the girl in ck withdrew her hand and cast Moon Fairy a fleeting nce. "You''re rather obedient," shemented, a teasing tone in her voice. "Serve me well, and you''ll be handsomely rewarded."

    Moon Fairy simply nodded with a subtle smile.

    Then, another brave¡ªor perhaps foolhardy¡ªhuman challenger stepped up. Murderous intent shed in the eyes of the young woman in ck.

    "You''d best not kill," Moon Fairy advised earnestly, "or you''ll find no one left willing to challenge you."

    "Do you think I need your advice? Stick to your tasks and hold your tongue!" she retorted with a re.

    Without challengers, her rank would plummet on the first day''s leaderboard, making the top spot elusive. She just wanted to have a bit of fun at the start!

    "Stick to my tasks?" Moon Fairy, gazing over at the other arenas, subtly melded into the crowd, disappearing from the girl''s side. Another challenger fell before the young woman in ck. This time, she''d been merciful.

    "Little fox!" She reached back, expecting the wet cloth. But it never came. Whirling around, she realized that Moon Fairy had vanished from sight!

    "Insolence!" she seethed, revealing a pair of sharp fangs. After giving him the privilege of serving her, he dared to wander?

    "What could you possibly achieve in this arena?" she mused aloud, a veiled threat in her voice. "Once outside, you''ll regret your little escapade."

    Irritated, the young woman in ck refocused and rejoined the brutal fray.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    With a hush, a silver-haired individual barefooted walked amidst the bustling crowd. A sickly yellow gust whirled around his fleshy frame. As the wind brushed past, his skin took on a decayed, yellow hue. Within his bones, a ghostly white me emerged. Wherever the mes danced, bones shattered, aged, and decayed.

    "Wind Fire Tribtion?" the crowd whispered. They looked on with eyes wide in astonishment at the silver-haired demon. To face the Wind Fire Tribtion during the War of Immortals was indeed an ill stroke of luck. Fortunately, this was the main battlefield wherebat was prohibited outside of the arena stages. So, none dared to intervene.

    But what truly struck awe into their hearts was the sight of this demon, casually strolling while undergoing this tribtion. Others would typically meditate, seal themselves off, and fight with all their might against such a cmity. But him? Walking?

    With a hum, his flesh gave birth to wind, and his bones to fire. The Wind Fire Tribtion was known to destroy one''s body. Those who sumbed would perish, but survivors would be reborn!

    Moon Fairy took ten steps in total. The intensity of the Wind Fire Tribtion grew fiercer with each step. By the fifth, he looked almost rotten to the core. But on the sixth step, from his decayed flesh and bones sprouted new, fresh ones, more fierce and raging from countless challenges faced before.

    The next five steps initiated another transformation of flesh. By the tenth step, he seemed wholly rejuvenated, radiant with vigor. With that, he had crossed the Wind Fire Tribtion! The demonic power within Moon Fairy''s flesh started to evolve towards the Saint Realm, having already reached the Late Wind Fire Tribtion.

    "Absorbing Deste Essence with the body double sure simplifies things," Moon Fairy mused.

    Especially that Gxy grade Deste Essence, Tri-Ghost me, gifted by the Peacock Prince. It had spread to every limb and corner of his body. Once he had absorbed it, with the protection of his Chak Flesh Armor, the Wind Fire Tribtion had immediately followed. Clearly, the Divine Destion Demon God was on the same pedestal as the Primordial Ancient Immortal.

    "Ten steps, one tribtion!" After Yun Xiao''s performance, a new wave of astonishment swept the first battlefield. The eyes of numerous humans and demons widened in surprise. The humans frowned. The demons looked pleased.

    "Where did this Fox n geniuse from?"

    "I need his information!"

    At the Ascension Gate, all 108 Demon Saints discussed heatedly with fierce glint in their eyes.

    "Moon Fairy? A Primeval Demon? Wasn''t he humiliated by Yun Xiao at the Spirit Treasure Pce? Wasn''t he just at the Demon Meridian Realm two days ago?"

    "The only direct disciple of Lady Hua Lian?"

    In no time, whispers about this new prodigy spread. Meanwhile, the silver-haired demon now stood before a golden arena stage.

    "I''m Moon Fairy representing the Demon Continent. At the Late Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, I challenge you to a duel!" Alongside other demons, he threw down his challenge.

    On the golden stage stood a tall, exquisitely beautiful woman from the human race, draped in orange. In her hand, she wielded a magical fan that stirred tempests. She had just dispatched a demon challenger.

    In the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire, Si Muyou stood out like a beacon.

    She was famed not only for her unparalleled beauty across the Heavenly Realm but also as the esteemed granddaughter of the Treasure Emperor of the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire. Now, she held the title as the Empire''s most prodigious talent, serving as the Champion for her nation.

    The Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire brimmed with a plethora of talents and riches, making it the proverbial cherry on the cake in the Demon Continent''s eyes.

    Si Muyou cast a casual nce at the leaderboard. In just a brief span, she found herself slipping to the lower half amongst the top sixteen prodigies.

    "You!" She pointed her delicate finger at one particr silver-haired demon among the challenging horde.

    But, who could me her? Moon Fairy, amidst all the demons, was like a sore thumb¡ªoddly captivating and undeniably conspicuous.

    "Much obliged for the opportunity, Miss Si," Moon Fairy gracefully stepped onto the golden stage, bowing in gratitude.

    "Why the charade? You demons dressing up and imitating human customs," Si Muyou remarked, her voice dripping with frost.

    Moon Fairy merely smiled and gestured for her to begin.

    Intrigued onlookers watched as this recent Wind Fire Tribtion survivor, a talent amongst demons, ascended the arena stage to challenge the top prodigy of the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire.

    The crowd erupted.

    "Go Moon Fairy! Go!"

    "Devour that little human girl!"

    "Rip her open, feast on her innards! Delicious!"

    The surroundings morphed into a cacophony of fangs bared and hungry maws snapping. Si Muyou''s brow furrowed further, her gaze growing even colder.

    "You seem rather popr," she noted, her voice dripping with sarcasm. She gripped her fan, shaped like a banana leaf, as storms whirled around her. With her Gxy grade magic treasure, the Gust Dazzle Fan, she appeared even more imposing than Ye Shengyin, who wielded the Imperial Seal.

    She might not have reached the Saint Realm, but who would dare challenge her without some prowess up their sleeves?

    "It''s just a smidgen of fame," Moon Fairy remarked softly.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>A tempestuous wind blew from her, making Moon Fairy''s silver hair dance in the breeze. Two beast w pendants shimmered beside his ears, and his three fox tails grew longer, brimming with the power of almost a hundred different Deste Essences¡ªmost gifts from his master Lady Hua Lian.

    But looking at Moon Fairy, Si Muyou''s eyes were only filled with disdain. With a more severe expression, she whispered, "Dressed in human elegance while you still have a demon''s heart, will it ever change?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Like a gust, she lunged forward, gripping her Gust Dazzle Fan and unleashed a mighty sweep! Using the Upper Neb grade daoist spell, Wind Sky Fire Refinement, she summoned a fiery tornado on her fan. In an instant, the entire golden stage was engulfed in a fiery storm.

    Her orange dress fluttered wildly as she swung her fan overhead, resembling a massive tempestuous mountain, aimed straight for Moon Fairy. It was evident her mastery over her magic treasure far surpassed that of Ye Shengyin.

    Under this firestorm, Moon Fairy, despite being in the Late Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, seemed as frail as duckweed in a whirlwind, seemingly ready to be obliterated at any moment.

    "Demon heart?" Moon Fairy shook his head, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes. He locked eyes with Si Muyou, and a mysterious white mist enveloped him, casting ethereal shadows as they danced like mes.

    <em>HUM! </em>In the blink of an eye, he transformed into a pristine white Three-Tailed Demon Fox, his silvery eyes piercing and uncanny.

    "Ah! Still just a petty fox..." Si Muyou sneered, her eyes brimming with disdain. The Gust Dazzle Fan she wielded conjured another Wind Sky Fire Refinement, hurling it towards the three-tailed fox.

    "Illusionary Realm." With a mere blink, Moon Fairy unleashed his demon technique, and the entire stage was immersed in a dense, otherworldly fog, as if it had been transported to another realm.

    While this illusion technique was a mere basic trick of the lesser fox demons, with thebination of the Divine Destion Physique and the Seed of Creation, it had evolved to its pinnacle. It was so potent that even without conscious thought, his bewitching charm naturally radiated outwards. This was why individuals like Lady Hua Lian and that girl in ck were subtly drawn to him, even without realizing it.

    With just a sway of her tail, Moon Fairy was the ultimate seductor.

    "Hmm?" As the bewitching fog enveloped her, Si Muyou trembled. Illusory lights danced before her, whispering sweet nothings, causing her animosity towards the fox to wane, leaving her in a daze as memories of the past flooded back.

    Instead of a fox, a charming gentleman with affectionate eyes stood before her.

    "Why suffer the sorrows of the mortal world? Run away with me, and we''ll roam free, basking in eternal bliss." Dreamlike voices flooded her ears, engulfing her soul. A heat enveloped her, and without realizing, her intent to kill, her will to fight, all evaporated.

    In her daze, she had no idea where she was or what she was doing. Her attack, the Wind Sky Fire Refinement, lost its force, aiming at nothing. Even the powerful Gust Dazzle Fan slowed to a stop.

    "Si Muyou! Don''t fall for the fox''s seduction!" Urgent shouts broke through her trance.

    Si Muyou''s eyes trembled as she snapped back to reality, her face turned pale as a ghost, and a chill ran down her spine.

    "Even against a fox, you seem to go weak in the knees, don''t you?" A haunting whisper teased her ear, filling her with shame. Whirling around, Si Muyou was met with the sight of the three-tailed fox, already close enough to touch. Its w swiped at her!

    A shield of wind, formed from her magic, sprang up in defense. However, to her surprise, the fox wielded a forceparable to that of a mammoth beast. With a surge of its immense power, the fox''s swipe shattered her shield, and the remaining force mmed into her.

    "AGGH!" Blood spurted from Si Muyou''s mouth, leaving scarlet streaks across her dress. She was thrown to the ground, tumbling several times beforeing to a stop.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 183: Great Merciful Tribulation

    Chapter 183: Great Merciful Tribtion

    A chorus of jeers from the demon horde filled the air, their excitement palpable.

    "You wretched beast, you''ve stained my honor!" Si Muyou pushed herself to her feet, her eyes now bloodshot with anger.

    Her entire life, she''d been a beacon of purity and grace. She couldn''t stomach the humiliation she''d just endured. Envisioning the disappointed faces of her fellow countrymen, the shame of a person bested by a beast, she felt an overwhelming urge to die with honor.

    With a thunderous roar, she ignored her grave injuries, whisking her Gust Dazzle Fan into action and charging at Moon Fairy like a cyclone of fire and rage. Though it looked like an ordinary fan, its edges were razor-sharp, making it as lethal as a battle axe.

    <em>SMASH SMASH SMASH! </em>Her Wind Fire Tribtion Realm cultivation gave her an edge on the battlefield. With a single swing, her fan shed at the forehead of the three-tailed fox.

    She aimed to cleave the contemptible creature in two. Yet, to her dismay, striking the fox felt like smashing another Gxy grade treasure. Sparks flew as the fox was sent hurtling backward, yet itnded gracefully. Only a single scratch marred its forehead.

    Staggering, Si Muyou spat a mouthful of dark blood, her once-pristine robes now drenched in crimson. Typically, an enchanting fox demon would have a vulnerable physique. Why then was this one so impossibly tough? Even in her weakened state, her Gust Dazzle Fan should have easily split the fox''s head open.

    A rift of disbelief tore through Si Muyou''s heart. She clenched her teeth, disregarding her injuries, and lunged at Moon Fairy once more, blood trailing in her wake.

    "Why do you resist? You''re already beaten," Moon Fairy''s voice was cold and indifferent.

    "This is the battlefield of my people. I bear the hopes of an entire nation. There''s no surrender, only death!" Si Muyou charged, leaving a trail of blood behind.

    Moon Fairy''s eyes narrowed. In a swift move, the three tails of the fox swept forward, snatching Si Muyou''s Gust Dazzle Fan and entangling her. Severely weakened from blood loss, she was at her limit.

    "My apologies, but as long as I''m here, you won''t die."

    Having said that, Moon Fairy swiftly gathered all the War of Immortal Jade tokens on her and with a swift flick, tossed them off the golden arena.

    Gazing at the young girl sprawled and bloodied on the ground, he murmured, "I''m sorry. I needed a grand victory against humanity..."

    A win to climb higher among the demonic ranks and gain more support! Si Muyou wouldn''t die. She''d just lost. "You might''ve won against her, but humanity will triumph! Just you wait..."

    The three-tailed demon fox, now alone on the tform, slowly transformed into a silver-haired human.

    Many human participants from the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire already surrounded Si Muyou, tending to her injuries. Moon Fairy had been careful with his strike, harming but not maiming.

    Yet, what couldn''t be denied was this. She was the first of the sixteen seeded prodigies to be defeated by a challenger!

    With his golden War of Immortals jade token and all the ones he had won previously in his grasp, Moon Fairy''s name shot up to the fifteenth position on the Ascension Board!

    Demon Continent - Moon Fairy: 111 pts!

    Though he was a demon from the Divine Continent, he was now representing the Demon Continent due to a switch in the War of Immortal Jades. And just like that, another spot in the top sixteen on the Ascension Board was imed by the Demon Continent.

    Toppling an Immortal prodigy was what the demons had hoped for from the start of this conflict. And now, Moon Fairy had be the first hero of the Demon Continent!

    "Moon Fairy!" This name, recing the earlier champion Yun Xiao, was now the talk of the Heavenly Realm!

    This sub realm currently housed tens of millions of demons, and just earlier, Yun Xiao''s disy of power with his Sword Rings was a p to the Demon Continent''s face, much to their collective frustration.

    Now, their time hade to roar and cheer! Some even transformed back to their demonic forms, howling in ecstasy. For a moment, the battlefield resembled a dance floor of wild, jubnt demons.

    Finally, it was the demons'' turn to revel in victory!

    "Our Demon Continent is a treasure trove of talent! Not just Emperors and Empresses, but even the most ordinary of beasts rise to power!"

    Numerous demons gazed fervently at Moon Fairy, chanting and cheering, echoing the same praises the humans had earlier sung for Yun Xiao. This felt like sweet revenge!

    "You lot celebrating a tad much, aren''t ya? Wasn''t this same Moon Fairy beaten to tears by Yun Xiao just days ago at the Spirit Treasure Pce?"

    "How hrious!"

    A few disgruntled human cultivators quipped.

    Witnessing the anguish of Si Muyou, their hearts ached.

    "So what if we''ve tasted defeat? Who can im they''ve never lost? In just two days, Moon Fairy has risen against the heavens. His future will surely surpass Yun Xiao''s!" the demons shouted with fury.

    "Yeah, right! Let''s see how they fare when they face each other!"

    For a moment, the entire Heavenly Realm was abuzz with debate.

    Humans and demons argued fiercely over these two <em>new prodigies</em>, their faces flushed with passion. Regardless of the debate, the morale of the Demon Continent was visibly lifted.

    With all eyes on them, Moon Fairy on the golden arena nced towards the direction of the Cycle Battle. He pointed defiantly, his face twisted with emotion, dering to the crowd, "Yun Xiao, you''d best stay alive till tomorrow! The disgrace at the Spirit Treasure Pce will be repaid tenfold!"

    Everyone knew that the Sword Ring from the revered fox ancestor still hung from Yun Xiao''s de. The implication was clear.

    "The rise of a human and demon star!"

    "If both of these prodigies survive the next two days, they''ll surely be fated adversaries..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On another golden arena stage, a young girl dressed in ck once again dominated an opponent who had reached the Perfect Wind Fire Tribtion Realm.

    "Boring, just trash!" She wiped the blood from her hands, her frustration evident. "If that little fox doesn''te back soon, I swear I''ll castrate him!"

    As the young girl in ck grumbled, a thunderous roar echoed from nearby. She paused, looking in the direction of the sound. On the neighboring stage, a silver-haired young man smiled at her, giving her a yful wave.

    The girl in ck blinked, thinking she''d seen wrong. She nced up at the Ascension Board...

    "Damn it!" After letting out an expletive, she gazed at Moon Fairy, a smirk forming on her lips. "This little fox is quite entertaining, isn''t he?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Ascension Gate, a bustling discussion ensued among the 108 saints. Many of them had gathered around Lady Hualian.

    "How did he soar to such heights?" Awe was evident in the eyes of the Ape Saint. Just days ago, he had witnessed Moon Fairy in action.

    "I''ve tested him. Hispatibility with the Deste Essence is indeed... exceptional," Lady Hualian whispered, surrounded by the assembly of Demon Saints.

    "To what extent?" came the envious queries.

    "Perhaps... on par with a Demon Emperor," Lady Hualian ventured.

    "By that logic, our Demon Continent might see another Demon Emperor in a few years," one of the Demon Saints mused, a passionate me burning in their hearts. Their envious gazes towards Lady Hualian intensified.

    "Congrattions, Lady Hualian. Kudos to the Fox n."

    "The Fox n has never birthed a Demon Emperor before. If you raise one, your merit will be boundless, Lady Hualian."

    Yet amidst the praise, Lady Hualian felt a flutter of anxiety. As expected, soon after, a voice whispered in her ear, "Lady Hualian, the Eclipse Demon Emperor wishes to see you."

    Rising gracefully, her cherry blossom dress trailing behind, Lady Hualian momentarily departed the Ascension Gate. After weaving through numerous streets, she entered a secluded pce.

    Inside the dimly lit hall, a raven-haired young man sat, his eyes as dark as the moonless night, looking down at Lady Hualian.

    "I greet you, Moon Emperor," Lady Hualian said, her voice trembling slightly as she knelt.

    "Give me a concise ount of this Primeval Demon, Moon Fairy. His past, nature, and encounters," the young man in ckmanded impassively.

    "Yes, Demon Emperor," Lady Hualian began, looking up slightly. "Moon Fairy was born in the Demon Continent, raised by me since he was young. He is resilient..."

    "Not your own child, I presume?" The Eclipse Demon Emperor''s cold smirk cut her off.

    Lady Hualian lowered her gaze, whispering, "No." She lied. If they believed Moon Fairy to be a foreign demon with humble origins, feeling no allegiance to the Demon Continent, he might not be trusted.

    Within the Fox n, only a handful of fox demons knew the origins of Moon Fairy. Before her arrival, she had already discreetly dealt with them. A mistrusted prodigy was always in peril. She was well-aware of the consequences if her deceit was unveiled... and it wouldn''t be pretty. Yet, she was willing to risk it.

    "Exceptional talent in this Primeval Demon, and a strong bond with you. Raised by you, his roots are pure. This Moon Fairy, he can be nurtured as a Demon Prince," a chilly female voice emanated from behind the ck-haired boy.

    There, a vibrant red lotus bloomed, deeply rooted in a man''s lifeless heart.

    "Thank you, Red Lotus Demon Empress," Lady Hualian said, only just realizing the presence of the other. She bowed even deeper, beads of cold sweat forming on her back.

    "After the grand tournament, bring him to see me," the ck-haired boy, with a faint arch of his brow, said nonchntly. "I shall... train him."

    "Yes, I thank the two Demon Emperors on behalf of my apprentice," Lady Hualian replied, lightly bowing three times.

    "You may not wish to bear offspring, hindering the Fox n''s lineage, but if you can raise a Demon Prince, your contributions shall outweigh your shorings," the Red Lotus Demon Empress remarked.

    "For the Demon Continent, I shall spare no sacrifice..." In the shadows, the woman with cherry blossom dress, hair cascading down like scattered petals, looked ethereal.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back on the first square in the Cycle Battle, another fight had started! Another team vanquished! Chen Jin and hisrades were on the brink of tears. The moment their formation activated, the four of them barely caught a glimpse of their adversaries before Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword wiped them out in one fell swoop!

    Several rounds of battles had ensued, and none of them had even imed a single opponent. Although dubbed a five-man squad battle, it felt as though they had merely shown up to spectate.

    Originally tasked with protecting one main yer, the onset saw Yun Xiao unting his skills wildly, granting the four of them the <em>privilege</em> of front-row seats to his prowess...

    Now, another wave of challengers was approaching!

    As Yun Xiao reveled in the thrill of the ughter, eager to tear through thepetition, a subtle change crossed his face.

    "Bluey, the wind fire tribtion you mentioned, where flesh gives birth to wind and bones ignite fire, and the tribtion emerges from within the body, is that right?" Yun Xiao inquired. Having already passed through three rounds of the wind fire tribtion using his body double, Moon Fairy, he figured he''d be familiar with it.

    "Right, why do you ask?" Blue Star stared in bewilderment.

    "I sense the arrival of my very first wind fire tribtion, but why isn''t there any wind or fire inside me?" Yun Xiao''s voice quivered slightly, revealing a hint of anxiety.

    "How can that be? Where did the wind fire tribtion go?" Blue Star eximed, dumbfounded.

    "Eh?" Yun Xiao felt something peculiar overhead. He instinctively looked up and muttered, "Oh hell!"

    Above, two immense, looming clouds spanned the sky, each stretching for miles. One was a swirling tempest, while the other zed with fierce mes.

    "What on earth is that?" Yun Xiao''s voice trembled.

    Blue Star squeezed out from his embrace and, upon gazing skyward, shuddered uncontrobly.

    "Good Lord!"

    "What''s going on?" Yun Xiao felt increasingly overwhelmed.

    "You''ve grown too freakishly fast. You''ve been targeted by the Dao Realm''s rules, hitting you with a Great <em>Merciful </em>Tribtion!" Blue Star exined.

    "Dao Realm''s rules? Have I been exposed?" Yun Xiao blinked in confusion.

    "Not exactly. More like it''s fool-proof detection."

    Yun Xiao sighed in relief. "Well, that''s a relief."

    "Relief? This is an Immortal ascension tribtion. It could blow the entire Heavenly Realm to smithereens! It''s lethal enough to end you a billion times over!" Blue Star snapped.

    Yun Xiao was left speechless.

    Red Moon wailed dramatically, "Talents often die young. s, he was just sixteen!"

 Chapter 184: Who Pissed Off the Heavens?

    Chapter 184: Who Pissed Off the Heavens?

    "What on earth is that?"

    In the midst of the War of Immortals, a massive storm of wind fire tribtion clouds had suddenly emerged in the heavens. The entire Heavenly Realm¡ªboth cultivators and demons¡ªwas utterly dumbstruck. It had been raining, but upon the appearance of this vast tribtion cloud, the dark sky was instantly vaporized and burnt away! A crushing pressure weighed down on every living being.

    In that moment, regardless of human or demon, streaks of wind and fire seemed to emanate from their flesh and bones, causing excruciating pain.

    "So, we''re all facing this tribtion together? If we win, we celebrate; if we lose, we shoulder it together?" Yun Xiao had never in his wildest dreams imagined that his first wind fire tribtion would look like this.

    To destroy the Heavenly Realm and obliterate himself countless times? Such thoughts were terrifying, and he was at aplete loss, his mortal soul drawing a nk.

    "Could it be that a mortal soul inhabiting the body of the Creator Immortal is destined to be a dream without conclusion?"

    If it were the Creator Immortal himself, could he withstand this inevitable great tribtion of rebirth?

    As Yun Xiao was lost in thought, the massive wind fire tribtion cloud continued to expand, transforming into a monstrous demon, voraciously absorbing the energy of the entire Heavenly Realm, and even drawing from the spiritual and immortal energy of both the Divine and Demon Continents.

    The release of the immortal energy from the deaths of the two great Cosmic Immortals only served to elerate the expansion of the tribtion cloud! Every cause would find its effect.

    "This is the rule of the Dao Realm. Under these fundamental rules, the birth of an ultimate creature that could disrupt bnce isn''t permitted. Only this way can the world continue to function..." Blue Star murmured under the immense pressure.

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    "Who, in their pompous, rigid, domineering, and malicious wisdom, created such rules?" Yun Xiao eximed indignantly.

    "That''d be you, my dear Creator," Red Moon replied, its face twisted but breaking into a grin.

    "Don''t you see? You dug a pit for yourself eons ago, and now... it''s time to bury yourself in it." Blue Star chuckled mischievously.

    "You''re just going to stand there and watch?" Yun Xiao was exasperated. Even at this moment, they were still cracking jokes?

    "For one lifetime, as brothers, how could I simply watch you die?" Blue Star dered with righteous fervor, pausing before adding, "At the very least, I''ll handle the shoveling."

    "I''ll be in charge of the gravestone!" Red Moon said, giddy with excitement.

    "Let''s bury some fine wine and tiger''s whisker liquor with him. Even in death, our brother should remain a yboy," Blue Star suggested.

    "Brilliant idea!"

    "..." Yun Xiao gawked at the two, speechless.

    While they conversed, the colossal cloud of tribtion had expanded to the point where it obscured the entirety of the Heavenly Realm. This cast the upper region of the miniature universe into a whirlwind of storms and roaring mes. Beneath such apocalyptic power, all living beings below oscited between confusion and outright panic.

    "What in the world...?"

    "Who pissed off the heavens? Whose sins are so vast? Is this cmity meant for me?"

    "Dad, Mom! My stomach''s on fire!"

    The entire Heavenly Realm descended into utter chaos.

    Countless humans and demons flooded the streets, staring in disbelief and bewilderment at the unfolding scene.

    At the Ascension Gate, the 108 Demon Saints and the officials from the Immortal Empires wore faces as pale as ghosts, staring up at the vast clouds of tribtion.

    "This... This is the legendary Ascension Tribtion! To endure it is to be a true Immortal! But ording to records, the tribtion cloud was only supposed to be a hundred feet wide..." An elderly human stood up, his eyes trembling with terror as he murmured.

    "Are we going to get caught up in this?" someone else quivered.

    "Do you have wind and fire on you?"

    "Yes!"

    "That''s the <em>prologue</em> to the Ascension Tribtion. If you possess wind and fire, the tribtion will strike you, annihting your organs and soul!"

    The moment this exnation was voiced, it spread like wildfire, sending every being in the Heavenly Realm into a panicked frenzy.

    Who cared about the War of Immortals now?

    For a time, the atmosphere was filled with collective wails of despair.

    Even the Demon Saints and officials of the Immortal Empires gathered together, their faces ashen, intending to pool their powers to resist this impending doom.

    In the Arena Champion Battle, a young girl in a white dress halted herbat, her face paling as she asked, "Pomelo, what''s happening?"

    A series of tiger stripes on her coalesced on her palm to form the face of a white tiger, which dumbfoundedly replied, "I''ve no idea! Who the hell did something to incur this heavenly wrath?"

    As they spoke, the entire Heavenly Realm began to tremble.

    Above in the sky, fierce winds roared like a hundred thousand dragons, while the mes surged like a million stampeding elephants, shing and exploding.

    Fire birthed from wind, and wind fueled the fire.

    As the powers of wind and fire intertwined, dragons and elephants entwined, causing an explosive ruckus that shook the heavens.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The terrifying roar reverberated in everyone''s ears, deafening all under the sky.

    <em>HUM! </em>Within Yun Xiao''s flesh, nine dragon-shaped gales sprouted wildly, as mes stomped through his bones like a stampede of fiery mammoths. This tumult of dragon winds and mammoth fires was a tribtion unto itself, and at the same time, the prime trigger for the great <em>merciful </em>tribtion unfolding above.

    To put it inly, Yun Xiao was the lightning rod in the making. Amidst this maelstrom of wind and fire, he was in disarray. He saw the cmity descending, about to refine and consume him!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Yun Xiao reached into his chest and pulled out a little ck beast.

    "What are you up to?" Blue Star demanded, eyes wide.

    Yun Xiao cast a heartfelt nce at them and said slowly, "Just securing our bottom line..."

    "We can''t withstand this!" Blue Star screeched.

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    "We have to withstand it!" Having said that, Yun Xiao swung his arm in a circle, flinging the little ck beast sky-high! The world was in a panic by then, no eyes on him anymore.

    "Darn it!" Blue Star thrashed about, fur dancing wildly.

    "I don''t wanna die, I haven''t had my share of demon milk..." Red Moonmented, tears streaming down on the spot.

    "After this, you''ll have your fill," Yun Xiao promised.

    "Really?" Red Moon''s eyes sparkled, its tongue lolled out in sudden delight, turning sobs to snickers, "Then I guess I can hang on for a bit!"

    "You''re so na?ve!" Blue Star rolled its eyes in disdain.

    Then they morphed into a streak of ck lightning soaring toward the heavens.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The cmitous tribtion had amassed its power, zeroing in on Yun Xiao''s position, with the divine might of thousands of wind and fire forces rallying together.

    A hundred thousand wind dragons roared, a million elephants thundered, the power to obliterate existence peaking in a sh!

    Seeing the little ck beast''s silhouette pierce the sky, Yun Xiao felt a sense of satisfaction.

    Ever since the arrival of the great merciful tribtion, these two had been cracking jokes. Yun Xiao knew then that they would solve the problem.

    "These creatures were left by the Creator Immortal himself, meant to aid in the revival of their creator. And this tribtion, being his work, must have been calcted long ago, right?"

    But could the Creator Immortal have anticipated that a mere mortal soul would take his ce in rebirth?

    Swallowed by the internal tribtion of wind and fire, dragons and infernos cascading over his face, only a pair of deep ck eyes remained, gazing steadfastly at the vault of heaven!

    "In this life, with brothers by my side, stability reigns supreme!" Yun Xiao caught a glimpse of the little coffin soul beast transforming and couldn''t help but feel a rush of emotion.

    "Can it endure this cmity without harm?" he wondered, his fists clenched, heart thundering in his chest so loudly that even the roaring mes and wind of the tribtion seemed to quiet for him.

    "There''s something beneath the tribtion clouds!"

    At the moment of utter despair, many people suddenly noticed a ck light swelling below the heaven-scourging clouds.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A tiny shadow suddenly unfurled into an ancient bronze coffin of boundless size, matching the colossal tribtion clouds in stature.

    Its surface was shrouded in billowing ck mist, severe and mysterious, with mottled copper rust marking the passage of eons.

    Of course, from below, it was hard to discern the entirety of this ancient relic; one could not even tell it was a coffin.

    What the people saw was a rectangr expanse of ckness, like a celestial curtain spread above their heads, shielding them from the onught of the apocalypse.

    In the chaos of continuous change, numbness settled in the hearts of all.

    Back in the Arena Champion Battle, a maiden in white caught sight of this endless coffin. In that instant, her eyes grew vacant as if her soul had departed, yet the corners of her mouth curled into a strange, twisted smile...

    Beneath the tribtion clouds, the coffin rumbled.

    "To hell with it, let''s go all out!" Blue Star roared with fury.

    "For grandma''s sake, let''s risk it all!" Red Moon bellowed back.

    "It''s mostly you risking; I''ll be the one to close the lid when it''s done!" Blue Star quipped.

    "What? What? What?" Red Moon''s face was a picture of confusion. As its words fell, the lid of the ancient bronze coffin burst open, revealing the abyss that once entombed the Creator Immortal.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Tens of thousands of tribtion clouds transformed into a storm of dragon winds and a stampede of colossal fiery mammoths, thundering down with a deafening crash. The tribtion had truly begun!

    "I''m in it now!" The coffin''s body met the deluge head-on, gaping as if a stretch of the firmament itself had turned into a ravenous maw.

    With a hum that promised to devour worlds, the primordial bronze coffin opened its massive jaws and roared a bite that would consume all. In an instant, the endless cmity of destruction was sucked into its abyssal maw!

    "Hot, hot, so sted hot!" Red Moon cried out in a howl that cut through time itself.

    "Eh? This has nothing to do with me!" Blue Star chuckled heartily, watching as the full force of the destructive cmity rushed into the coffin. Seizing the moment with quick wits and quicker hands, it mmed the lid shut.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM!</em> The lid sealed tight over the coffin with precision, but not withoutint.

    "The lid''s on, but¡ªah! Scorching!" Two blue eyes on the coffin twisted in agony.

    "Ah, my goodness!" Red Moon continued to screech. "Bluey, what now? I can''t eat it all. I''m about to burst!"

    "Let''s bust out of the Heavenly Realm first!" Blue Star cried out, making their great escape.

    And with that, the ancient coffin bulldozed through the dimensional barriers of the realm, disappearing from the sight of all celestial beings.

    Those who witnessed were stunned silent, their minds nk. The entire realmpsed into a hush as if a colossal hand had yanked their millions of souls by their necks, dragged them to the precipice of hellish cauldrons, then, in a teasing flip, flung them back to the mortal coil. Indeed, it was enough to baffle the most unshakeable soul.

    "Are you all alright out there?" Yun Xiao called into the void, but no answer came, thickening his anxiety.

    Outside the realm, Red Moon fumed and fuss, steam billowing, wailing like a bat out of hell, crashing through the smoke-filled nothingness in all directions.

    "Where do I even spit this out? My mouth''s blistering!" Red Moon bellowed.

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    "Hold steady, brother, we''re almost clear!" Blue Star cackled with mischief clearly afoot.

    Just then, a vast, shadowynd loomed ahead, a dark continent that stretched beneath the flight of the runaway coffin...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 185: Forbidden! Forbidden! Forbidden!

    Chapter 185: Forbidden! Forbidden! Forbidden!

    "Atst! Open the coffin! Fire the cannons! st away!" Blue Star eximed with exhration.

    Red Moon rolled his eyes. He''d been waiting for this moment. He didn''t even bother to look where they were. As the lid of the copper coffin swung open, he retched, spewing out the searing wind fire tribtion that had been simmering in his mouth!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>In an instant, hundreds of thousands of storm dragons and a million ming mammoths descended upon a dark continent!

    "Where are we?" Red Moon''s vision darkened. Why did it feel like there were so many living things ahead? It thought they were supposed to hold off until they reached a desertednd!

    "Demon Continent!" Blue Star chuckled.

    "Holy smokes!" Red Moon''s eyes bulged. "So much demon milk gone! It''s over, oh no!"

    Blue Star, sweating, said with a wry smile, "And here I thought you cared about the lives of the demons!"

    "They''re just little ants created by Creator, worthless without their milk!" Red Moon scoffed disdainfully. "But, won''t this damage the realm''s Source Point?"

    "Ruin it? As if the Source Point can be damaged by a mere wind fire tribtion," Blue Star said, looking around with a sinisterugh. "Of course, the demons on it are doomed!"

    As they were speaking, the Great Merciful Tribtion struck thend of the Demon Continent! The Demon Continent was undoubtedlyrger than the pocket universe of the Heavenly Realm and far less dense. Still, when the wind fire tsunami hit countless demon mountains and caves, it unleashed an apocalypse!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Mountains shattered, rivers evaporated, the earth split, and volcanoes erupted with moltenva! Billions of demons, in their confusion, were as fragile as paper, instantly pulverized by the Great Merciful Tribtion. Their screams were silenced before they could even emerge.

    <em>ROAR! </em>A hundred thousand storm dragons and a million stampeding me mammoths swept across the Demon Continent''s surface, turning any gathering of life into pools of blood and mountains of corpses.

    Those demons, who had developed intelligence and even a societal structure akin to humans, perished in droves. The destruction came swiftly and left just as quickly.

    The destructive force of the Great Merciful Tribtion plowed through the ruggednd of the Demon Continent, destroying a third of its demon mountains and caves, ughtering billions of demons, then vanished like smoke. Where it passed, only dusty mountains, smoky ruins, and roads of blood and corpses remained.

    In the swath of destruction wrought by the tribtion, few demons survived. From a high vantage point, a third of the Demon Continent had turned into a bloody hell.

    As Blue Star had said, it was the demons who perished. The devastating force of the tribtion couldn''t shake the very foundation of the Demon Continent; even as the surface cracked, the inner embryonic structure of the world remained intact.

    "I''ve done a great service for Creator!" Red Moon eximed excitedly. "Although I don''t hate demons, killing them is exhrating!"

    "Let it be. As long as Creator lives as a human, we''ll destroy whatever he hates," Blue Star cackled.

    "I feel kind of sleepy," Red Moon''s eyelids drooped.

    "I''m feeling it too," Blue Star''s eyes rolled back.

    "This time, I''m really drained..." Red Moon gasped.

    "More drained than Creator, after a night of drinking Daughter''s Red¡­!"

    As the two beasts muttered, the ancient copper coffin shrank continuously, tumbling as it did.

    "No worries, Creator bet 100,000 Saint Stones on us. We''ll make a killing..."

    Eventually, they plummeted back to the Heavenly Realm, transforming into a ck brick.

    <em>BAM! </em>Yun Xiao, still in a daze, took a hit from the brick on his forehead, dizzy. He quickly picked up the brick, which now appeared dull and lifeless, like all its vitality had been sapped.

    "Brothers..." Yun Xiao''s heart ached. "You died so tragically."

    "Dead? Your sister''s dead!" A blue eye popped out from the brick, furious. "Even if this realm perishes, your dad here won''t die!"

    "Your second dad''s the same."

    A blood-red eye strained open beneath.

    Yun Xiao, relieved, then felt a tingle in his scalp. "Where did you send that Great Merciful Tribtion?"

    "Too tired to talk. Wait for the news..." Blue Star said before closing its eye.

    "Creator, 100 million Saint Stones are on you!" Red Moon''s red eye disappeared.

    100 million Saint Stones? That was equal to 100,000 Saint Stones multiplied by 1,000! That amount was worth trillions of spiritual crystals¡ªa fortune not even the wealthiest families in the Heavenly Realm could boast.

    "They mean I must win the War of Immortals. Otherwise, not only will I not have the 100 million Saint Stones required to save them, but even the 100.000 Saint Stones for the initial bet will be lost."

    Gazing at the solid brick in his hands, Yun Xiao quickly tucked it into his embrace. He lifted his eyes to the heavens, thinking to himself, "Where did those two rascals unleash the Great Merciful Tribtion? Was it merciful enough?"

    Wait for the news? Where would the newse from? At that moment, the Heavenly Realm, like Yun Xiao''s heart, was eerily silent.

    Everyone was still bewildered, unaware of what had transpired, their eyes fixed on the sky.

    After a long, long time, the crowd began to realize that the mighty tribtion for bing an Immortal might not reappear.

    From then on, the people and demons in the Heavenly Realm burst into fervent discussions.

    This spection wasted quite some time!

    You Fengya stepped forward, his face an odd mixture of expressions, and announced, "It''s all clear now. Perhaps the heavens made a mistake but promptly fixed it. The War of Immortals continues!"

    This statement snapped everyone back to reality.

    The reality that the War of Immortals must go on!

    "The Great Merciful Tribtion is gone. Does this count as me passing the first wind fire tribtion ? There are four more tribtions to go. Surely, it won¡¯t be as devastating every time, right?" Yun Xiao thought about it and felt a headacheing on.

    He didn''t have the Divine Destion Physique of his body double. So even the initial tribtion trigger, consisting of nine storm dragons and bone-searing mammoth mes, was not something he could handle with ease.

    During this time, the wind fire tribtion incessantly scorched and battered his flesh and bones to an unbearable degree.

    "Thankfully, this tribtion trigger acts like a normal wind fire tribtion. Otherwise, I wouldn''t be able to temper my flesh and magic power, to officially step into the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm¡­"

    The Wind Fire Tribtion Realm was one of transformation! It was unimaginable to use the Great Merciful Tribtion to forge his fleshly body; he would probably be incinerated to dust...

    "Though it''s just the initial tribtion trigger, the nine storm dragons and the bone-searing mammoth mes are what people would normally face at the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm!!"

    Yun Xiao needed to concentrate fully to endure this tribtion. So, he said to Chen Jin and the others, who had juste to their senses, "Hey, I have to endure this tribtion first. Please hold the fort in the meantime!"

    As long as their opponents weren''t all in the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, the four of them should be fine!

    After defeating You Qing, they were already one of the strongest five teams in the Cycle Battle! The other four contenders, one from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire and three from the Demon Continent, presented a formidable challenge. Rumor had it that the Violet Sky Immortal Empire even had a Saint Realm participant

    "Rx, take your time crossing the tribtion!" Zhao Xiaotang''s eyes sparkled with opportunity.

    Finally, his chance hade! Up to now, he had only acquired three War of Immortal Jades, with the rest imed by Yun Xiao. Now, they could finally showcase their prowess while Yun Xiao was preupied with his tribtion.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao settled himself at the back, sitting cross-legged to confront the wind fire tribtion engulfing him, tempering his flesh, bones, and magic power.

    Meanwhile, Nangong Xu, Chen Jin, Stray Dog, and Zhao Xiaotang braced themselves for battle.

    <em>RUMBLE! </em>The first square reactivated its array, thrusting them back into stark reality. Their new adversaries soon materialized before Chen Jin and the others¡ªfive demonic shadows!

    "Such potent demonic aura!" Their expressions shifted at the sight.

    Amidst the swirling mists of miasma, those five sinister, enigmatic shadows appeared. They looked at Yun Xiao and hispanions without a trace of fear, only a cold, cruel sneer.

    These demons might not have known how Yun Xiao had defeated You Qing and the others, but his high ranking on the Ascension Board was visible to all. The actual fights in the Cycle Battle were rtively difficult to observepared to the Arena Champion Battle.

    "Did you four give all your War of Immortal Jades to him?" a gaunt man with green hair sneered.

    Chen Jin''s eyes narrowed as he stared at him. "Green Peacock, Hanging Corpse Pir, ck Vine, Giant Toothed Rat, Dead Frog..."

    They recognized this group of demons!

    "Apart from the ten Saint Realm participants in the Arena Champion Battle, they must be the Demon Continent''s strongest team!"

    For instance, the Green Peacock was none other than the elder brother of the Peacock Prince, Kong Ming!

    If Yun Xiao weren¡¯t undergoing his tribtion, Chen Jin and the rest of the team wouldn''t feel pressured. But now, not only did they have to fight, they also had to protect Yun Xiao. They couldn''t help but feel the weight of a mountain bearing down on them.

    "Brothers..."

    Chen Jin looked back at Stray Dog, Zhao Xiaotang, and Nangong Xu. All of their eyes aze with fervor.

    "For our human race! We fight until death!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above the Demon Continent, where the Great Merciful Tribtion had ceased, the void became exceptionally malleable. The world barrier was as thin as paper. Whirlpools began to form, and behind them, faint glimmers of sword light streaked across!

    Beneath this zone was a region nketed with countless mountains of corpses and seas of blood.

    "Forbidden! Forbidden! Forbidden!" The broken bodies of demons, those still possessing mouths, started to move, chanting a singr word. The entire bloody hell with numerous corpses wriggled like a mass of worms, converging towards a mountain dyed in blood. A closer look revealed it wasn''t a mountain of dirt but one of flesh and bones!

    <em>CLICK CLICK CLICK!</em> The fragmented skeletons connected piece by piece¡ªrib bones to skull bones, tail bones... It looked like a chaotic mess. Yet, it was eerily sinister. Chunks of flesh forcibly fused together, forming tentacle-like arms of mangled bodies, iling wildly!

    Suddenly, with a thunderous roar, the flesh mountain sprouted two legs of mangled corpses and stood upright!

    <em>HUM!</em> Hundreds of thousands of demonic eyes converged at the mountain''s peak, forming a massive, twistedpound eye! This eye was twisted, eerie, and blood-soaked!

    "Earthly grudges... endless earthly grudges... resentment... death... hehehehe..."

    Its gaze, piercing through clouds, locked onto the pocket universe of the Heavenly Realm.

    "The Demon Continent is and of suffering¡­ Never a home. The Divine Continent, with its surge of immortal aura, is the ideal haven. So, the dream of generations of demon races should finally reflect in reality¡­ Hehehehe..."

    Countless fragmented demon mouths came together, forming a vast, gaping maw,ughing while chanting a name. "Forbidden!"

 Chapter 186: Die for Yun Xiao!

    Chapter 186: Die for Yun Xiao!

    A dense stench of decay hung heavy in the air.

    The mountain of blood and flesh, a grotesque mass of corpses, trudged onward atop the blood-drenched Demon Continent. Wherever it passed, broken bones reconnected, torn flesh fused anew.

    The mangled remains of countless demons, their eyes, ears, mouths, and noses, swarmed upwards, morphing the monster into a ghastly sight with thousands of ears, nostrils, and a mouth bristling with countless sharp teeth. Even its blood-soaked tongue was a fusion of many, each onepping hungrily at the air.

    It was like a machine designed to cleanse the world of corpses, leaving not a trace behind as it moved.

    The anguished souls of countless demons screamed, roared, and wailed, their collective despair fueling a hellish aura that enveloped and propelled the mountain of flesh forward.

    With every step of its colossal legs, the ground quaked as if in the throes of a cataclysmic earthquake.

    "The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor!"

    A pitch-ck serpent slithered from the distance, drawing near the grisly mountain. Its voice, filled with sorrow, echoed, "Disaster has befallen our Demon Continent, countless souls lost in this cmity. The other three Demon Emperors and the 108 Demon Saints are still in the Heavenly Realm of the Divine Continent. Should we summon them back immediately?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The mountain of flesh halted its grim march, lowering its grotesque head to gaze at the tiny serpent in its sight. The amalgamation of countless demonic voices emerged from its gaping maw, "The disaster has already befallen us, their return is pointless. Just send them a message."

    "Yes!" The ck serpent nodded mournfully. "Shall we continue with our grand n as intended?"

    "Hee hee hee..." The mountain of flesh covered its face, letting out a sinister chuckle, "There''s been a change in ns."

    "How so?" the ck serpent asked anxiously. "Does this mean we halt our pursuit of the Divine Dawn Empress due to the sudden plight of the Demon Continent?"

    "No, no, no." The mountain''s myriad eyes fixed on the serpent, its cacophony of voices resounding, "The n for the Sword Dao Monument continues, but the other schemes... they need to be intensified!"

    "Intensified?"

    "Yes! Now that the tribtions of heaven have descended, and the wheel of fate crushes against the face of the Demon Continent, why should we, beings who have already suffered immense losses, fear further damage? As the first demon since the ancient wars, it''s time for me to change the way of life for the denizens of the Demon Continent..."

    "Demon Emperor!" The pitch-ck serpent prostrated, its eyes aze with dark fire, trembling with excitement. "Does this mean... not only must the Divine Dawn Empress perish, but humans and demons alike must be annihted? Even the dogs we''ve raised, are they to be ughtered as well?"

    "No, no, no!" The mountain of flesh, with its amalgamated voices, continued to chuckle coldly. "It''s eptable to keep a small portion as livestock... The civilization, culture, and social structure of the human race are fascinating, intriguing. Their architecture, urban nning, elegance, poetry, gourmet cuisine, romantic affairs... all worth learning from! So, we should keep some human breeding stock, to build a demon civilization in the Divine Continent, shouldn''t we?"

    "Yes! We, the righteous warriors of the Demon Continent, will die for the demon race and carve out a new world! With our blood, we shall forge an evesting golden age for our descendants!" dered the ck serpent.

    The Demon Continent, and of destion, contrasted sharply with the vast, fertilends of the Divine Continent.

    In recent years, the Divine Dawn Empress emerged in the Divine Continent. And wasn''t the Demon Continent, too, making history with the coexistence of five great Demon Emperors?

    "But..." The serpent, in its fervor, harbored a slight concern. "Now that the Demon Continent has suffered losses, wouldn''tunching such a grand n signify starting from a position of weakness? The Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent might have weak rulers, but they are replete with powerful individuals, cunning and elusive..."

    "To embark on a golden era, sacrifices are necessary! Previously, the people of our continent had an escape route, and so the indecision, the clinging tofort, the reluctance to suffer heavy casualties. But now, in this era of great cmity, with the Divine Continent''s rise and the surge in heavenly energy, if we don''t fight with our backs against the wall this generation, we''ll never have another chance! In such times, who can remain uninvolved?

    "Furthermore¡ª" At this, the mountain of flesh lowered its head, gazing at the serpent with a sinister smile. "Old Serpent, have you forgotten what kind of demon I am? The souls of those who perished in today''s cmity have not departed. They will fight alongside me, opening up a new world for generations toe...

    "Old Serpent, remember, having no way out isn''t a bad thing; it''s the opportunity of a millennium!"

    Atop the mountain of flesh, countless malevolent spiritsughed menacingly.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Cycle Battle in the Heavenly Realm, Yun Xiao sat cross-legged, his magic power surging around him, formingyers of water mist shields.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Unknown demon magic bombarded from all directions, crashing against the Water Mist Shield, yet they couldn''t breach Yun Xiao''s defenses.

    The stronger demon magic was already being intercepted by Chen Jin and the other four.

    Yun Xiao was on the brink of a breakthrough in his cultivation, while Chen Jin and the others were engaged in a life-or-death battle. Thankfully, Yun Xiao had his Water Mist Shield. Without it, his four teammates, fighting five enemies while protecting him, would have faced a daunting challenge.

    Amidst the swirling storms, thunderous roars, and demonic wails, Yun Xiao remained unflinchingly calm.

    His Primordial Void Technique operated wlessly. The Nine Dragons Dantian and the Nine Heavens Star Meridians throughout his body interconnected, his magic power surging like an enraged dragon.

    As the wind fire tribtion ravaged flesh and bone, the Primordial Void technique, the epitome of the power of life, revitalized his body. Magic power coursed through him, regenerating flesh and bone.

    Wind dragons and me mammoths merged into Yun Xiao''s Primordial Void Dragon magic power. With each integration, the force of the heavenly tribtions melded with his power, enhancing it, slowly forming a portion of sacred power, augmenting the depth and lethality of his attacks.

    Now, each strike he delivered was imbued with the power of wind fire tribtions, magnified fivefold.

    The Primordial Void technique, epassing all things, effortlessly absorbed the tribtion forces, integrating them into Yun Xiao''s being.

    "It''s done." Even in the Early Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, Yun Xiao''s magic power had reached a levelparable to the Perfect Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. Coupled with his superior daoist magic, swordsmanship, Sword Aura, and Sword Rings, these were the foundations of his soaringbat strength.

    This was how he could leap across an entire realm and vanquish his foes with overwhelming might.

    "Now, killing those in the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm will be as easy as ughtering chickens."

    At least, Yun Xiao, now in his prime, was even stronger than Chen Xi when she first topped the Dragon Ranking and disyed her Saint Realm prowess.

    "You guys..." Yun Xiao, having fully integrated the wind and fire tribtion, suddenly opened his eyes in the first instant.

    <em>BOOM!</em> Five great Water Mist Shields burst apart, transforming into countless waves sweeping outwards.

    "Yun Xiao!" Ahead, the four young human warriors turned back, their faces alight with surprise and joy at the sight of Yun Xiao. They finally breathed a sigh of relief!

    Yun Xiao''s gaze fell on them¡ªChen Jin, Zhao Xiaotang, Stray Dog, and Nangong Xu. Each of them was pale, their bodies covered in w marks and blood. Even their fingers were broken. The battle had been brutally fierce!

    The moment Yun Xiao seeded in his tribtion was also the deciding moment of the battle. Behind themy the corpses of five demonic prodigies!

    A Green Peacock with its head severed from its body. A Hanging Corpse Pir chopped into pieces. The shattered remains of ck Vine, Dead Frog, and Giant Toothed Rat¡­ The most powerful team of demonic prodigies in the Cycle Battle, annihted!

    The Divine Dawn Immortal Empire''s team, not the one fielded by the Grand Temple, had won! Not only that, but Chen Jin and the other three had won while also protecting Yun Xiao!

    As Yun Xiao emerged triumphant from his tribtion, cheers erupted from countless humans at this battlefield. But the cheers weren''t for Yun Xiao; they were for Chen Jin and the others!

    They represented Chen Heavenly Mansion, the Spirit Treasure Pce, a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, and the lower realms of the Divine Continent!

    Yun Xiao, though undergoing his tribtion, had been dividing his attention to watch over them. They had been fighting fiercely and ended up in dangerous situations many times. But their lives had never been at risk. So, he didn''t interrupt his cultivation to rescue them.

    Now, they basked in the fervent admiration of their people, realizing their own worth, bringing honor to their ancestors. Despite their injuries, radiant smiles broke across their faces. Having fought shoulder to shoulder through life and death, the four embraced,ughing heartily.

    ying demons! This had been their lifelong pursuit! As Yun Xiao transcended his tribtion, they held the fort.

    "Leader Chen Jin!"

    "Young Master Zhao!"

    "Big Brother Nangong!"

    "Brother Stray Dog of the Martial Realm!"

    The Nine Heavens Immortal Army, the Spirit Treasure Pce, a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, and the martial artist from the lower realms... they all cheered for these four!

    In the Heavenly Realm, their names resounded!

    The human race was frail and beleaguered, and demons ran rampant!

    The Arena Champion Battle had be the yground of the demons.

    In the Cycle Battle, with the Grand Temple''s forces decimated and only Yun Xiao and Chen Xi remaining for the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire, these four stood firm. They represented a new hope for the people, embodying the resilience of the empire''s diverse warriors.

    Even the other four great Immortal Empires, aside from Violet Sky, cheered for them.

    Compared to Chen Xi and Yun Xiao''s overwhelming victories, these four were more rtable¡ªordinary people facing daunting trials, fighting to the death, clinching victory in the jaws of peril, naturally more thrilling and heart-stopping!

    Witnessing this scene, Yun Xiao felt genuinely happy for them. So, he quickly stepped forward, joining their bloodstained embrace.

    "Look, we''re all topping the rankings now!" Zhao Xiaotang eximed excitedly.

    They had divided the War of Immortal jade tokens of the five demons they had defeated. These demons had already imed quite a few victories. They were all around the top twenties on the Ascension Board, each with over a hundred War of Immortal jade tokens.

    "Not bad, not bad," Yun Xiao said with a smile. "Too bad you can''t increase that count anymore!"

    "Damn!" They all understood his implication. He''d just ovee his tribtion, and they still wanted to snatch more victories?

    "Brothers, let''s take down this guy. Four against one!" Zhao Xiaotang yelled, but the movement aggravated his finger injury, causing him to wince in pain.

    "Ha ha." Even Nangong Xu, who was usually reserved,ughed at this moment.

    "I won''t lie to you. In my life of sword cultivation, this is the first time I''ve in demons under such scrutiny..." Nangong Xu''s hand, still gripping his sword, trembled, his eyes brimming with tears.

    "Once it begins, there will only be more toe!" Yun Xiao patted Nangong Xu on the shoulder, his eyes zing with intensity.

    "You''re right! It''s exhrating! I really do envy you," Nangong Xu replied.

    Yun Xiao gazed towards the direction of the Arena Champion Battle and said, "Well, now you''ve gotten to experience the feeling yourself!"

    The frustration of a Sword Cultivator unable to y demons must have been suffocating. A sword should rather break than bend!

    Under the watchful eyes of thousands, Nangong Xu gazed deeply at Yun Xiao. A hundred thousand Sword Cultivators watched the young man in the red robe. <em>WHOOSH! </em>He raised his sword. It was an Upper Neb grade Furnace Sword Soul with 180yers of Sword Aura, yet no Sword Rings.

    His Sword Soul zed like a furnace, fierce mes reaching ten feet high.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The fire of rage burned even higher.

    "Don''t¡ª" Many human faces changed, looking towards the young man in red.

    "From now on, I, Nangong Xu, will take responsibility for my own actions, my own life and death!" With these words, he approached the corpses of the demons, thrusting his sword down, his heart like a zing furnace.

    <em>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </em>Under the gaze of thousands, Nangong Xu absorbed the demonic bones and marrow into his sword.

    <em>Soul Ignition Art!</em>

    Though the Hanging Corpse Pircked demon bones, its demonized body could still be refined to form a Sword Ring.

    Nangong Xu created five Sword Rings, selecting three to adorn his sword.

    "I too renounce my allegiance to the Three Great Sword Tombs!" With fiery eyes, Nangong Xu dered this and then turned to the young man in white. "From this day forth, I live and die for Yun Xiao!"

    The crowd erupted into uproar, their eyes zing with fervor, their hearts unsettled for a long time.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 187: A Battle of the Apex, One Sword Clears the Field!

    Chapter 187: A Battle of the Apex, One Sword Clears the Field!

    Atop the Ascension Gate, Supreme Marshal Chen Xiao, d in white tiger armor, leaned against the railing, his eyes burning as he gazed at the few names on the Ascension Board.

    Chen Xi was in the top ten! And Yun Xiao was close to breaking into the top ten himself. The first day was just a preliminary ranking. It reflected the strength of the participants but wasn''t all that crucial.

    "Old Chen," Zhao Xuanjian, robed in violet, suddenly appeared beside him. Both men stood back to back, facing the Demon Saints and the officials from the various Immortal Empires.

    "What''s up?" the Supreme Marshal asked casually, eyes fixed ahead.

    "Your son-inw bet 100,000 Saint Stones on himself to win the championship!" Zhao Xuanjian said, his face a picture of disbelief.

    "Oh?" The Supreme Marshal''s gazended on the young man in white. "True to form for someone Chen Xi brought back. His growth is astounding. He alone could crush You Qing''s team, and now, after breaking through the Wind Fire Tribtion, he''s unstoppable."

    "Do you think he and Chen Xi have a shot at the top?" Zhao Xuanjian asked.

    "Wishful thinking is pointless. The answer will be revealed tomorrow," the Supreme Marshal replied, ncing at Zhao Xuanjian. "The stakes this time are so immense, exceeding the wealth of nations. It''s a grand gamble between the Divine and Demon Continents. Regardless, you, as the bookie, stand to gain!"

    "We''ll see. If the Demon Continent wins, the Spirit Treasure Pce won''t profit much," Zhao Xuanjian shook his head.

    The Supreme Marshal hummed in agreement, then whispered, "By the way, you didn''t let slip about my son-inw''s bet, did you?"

    "No leak! It''s all confidential. Otherwise, it would influence others'' bets and crash the market. A dark horse, suddenly backed by 100,000 Saint Stones, would surely draw followers," Zhao Xuanjian exined.

    "Good. Yun Xiao, and this Moon Fairy, they''re the variables once the war starts!" After a pause, the Supreme Marshal said to Zhao Xuanjian, "Once the bets are settled tomorrow, close up shop and shut down your Spirit Treasure Pce."

    "What''s happening?" Zhao Xuanjian asked, slightly startled.

    "The Empress has a n, and the armies are mobilizing. What do you think?" the Supreme Marshal''s eyes gleamed.

    "Oh!" Zhao Xuanjian looked at him deeply, then bowed. "Brother, I am at your service." Past their prime, the two men stood in the wind, locking eyes for a long moment.

    Not far from them, Ye Qingtian sat quietly, his gaze somber, the shadows flickering with firelight.

    The Grand Temple''s top students were decimated, the original top ten from the Dragon Ranking had all perished. This War of Immortals had nothing to do with his Azure Leaf faction anymore.

    Now, Ye Qingtian could only pray for the glory of the Demon Continent and the Violet Sky Immortal Empire. Ironically, he now hoped for the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire''s utter defeat, for Chen Xi and Yun Xiao''s team to perish.

    Suddenly, a broad hand rested on his shoulder.

    "Sit," Ye Qingtian said without turning around.

    A figure in purple materialized beside him, taking a seat. It was none other than the jade-faced monarch, the Violet Emperor.

    "Why not take your imperial seat prepared by the Divine Dawn? Aren¡¯t you going up there?" Ye Qingtian looked up towards the top of the Ascension Gateway. There, at the highest point, were eight imperial seats, now empty and forlorn.

    "I find nopanions there," the Violet Emperor said with a slight smile.

    Ye Qingtian chuckled.

    "How did your secret talks with those four go?" he asked in a low voice.

    "It''s hard to say," the Violet Emperor shook his head.

    "Catching so many significant rtives of the four Immortal Empires, just to make themply and not interfere recklessly. I''m guessing they won''t cry until they see the coffin?" Ye Qingtian''s gaze turned icy.

    "Not quite," the Violet Emperor chuckled coldly. "They''ve softened, even agreed to cooperate, nodding and bowing. But... I can''t tell if they''ll honor their word in the shadows."

    "As long as we strike swiftly and decisively, destroying Divine Dawn, they won''t even have the chance to betray," Ye Qingtian said indifferently. "Once Divine Dawn falls, they''ll lose their spine, especially that old fool from the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire. He''s old; it''s time for his son to take over. His ninth son isn''t bad, understands the bigger picture, suitable for the new emperor of Spirit Treasure."

    "That''s why tonight''s event at the Sword Dao Monument is crucial," the Violet Emperor nced towards the Divine Dawn Pce, sneering. "If done well, it could utterly tarnish Divine Dawn''s reputation in the Heavenly Realm. Even with her formidable power, if the world despises her, and she loses the people''s heart, with no one to shield her, her fall will be simple."

    "The Sword Dao Monument..." Ye Qingtian closed his eyes slowly, his voice deep. "Everything is arranged!"

    Beside him, You Fengya and Mu Tianshi nodded, clearly well-prepared.

    "The War of Immortals will distract everyone, perfect for our ns," Mu Tianshi said.

    "Then it''s settled," the Violet Emperor bowed to Ye Qingtian. "Brother, once Divine Dawn is disgraced, you can reim the imperial throne and restore the Azure Leaf Immortal Empire''s legitimacy! I''m happy for you, congrattions!"

    "May your good wordse true!" Ye Qingtian returned the bow, his eyes intense with ambition.

    He envied the Violet Emperor! Uniting the Violet Sky, allying with demons, leading the imperial family and great ns to new heights, and reigning supreme over the Divine Continent. With the support of the demons, even the Violet Emperor¡¯s descendants were dominating the Cycle Battle and Arena Champion Battle.

    Meanwhile, Ye Qingtian''s own offspring were shadows inparison.

    "In the Cycle Battle, the most glorious team is none other than the Violet Emperor''s valiant descendants!" You Fengya looked down. He saw the Violet Sky Crown Prince, who was in the Saint Realm, leading the second, third, fifth, and sixth princes and princesses on a rampage.

    Among them, the fifth and sixth princesses, being younger and less powerful, were just making up the numbers, essentially coasting to victory.

    It was the Crown Prince and the second and third princes who led the charge, advancing triumphantly.

    Unlike Yun Xiao''s team, this squad faced no formidable opponents; their luck was exceptionally good.

    "And that other team..." The Violet Emperor''s pupils narrowed as he looked at Yun Xiao and hispanions.

    "They''re quite strong, but apart from Yun Xiao, the other four are already injured and nearly out of the fight," Mu Tianshi said, his eyes aze with hatred.

    "With only Yun Xiao left, if they encounter the five princes and princesses of Violet Sky, it''s a sure path to defeat, a perfect way to elevate the prestige of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire," You Fengya said coldly.

    The Violet Emperor relished these words. After all, he was determined to have his Immortal Empire secure the title of humanity''s number one.

    Many officials of the Azure Leaf faction were also discussing animatedly.

    "Chen Xiao must have invested a lot in training his team. If they sh with Violet Sky, all his efforts will go down the drain." These words were spoken partly to please their <em>friends</em> from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire nearby.

    Just as they said this, the battlefield shifted.

    "Oh?" The Azure Leaf faction officials were startled, their feelingsplex now that the sh was actually happening.

    "The show begins," You Fengya dered.

    Ye Qingtian shot him a re.

    You Fengya quickly lowered his head and shut up.

    He knew that by hyping up Violet Sky, if something went wrong, it would be like sabotaging the Violet Emperor.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>RUMBLE! </em>The sh of the two strongest teams sent the atmosphere of the War of Immortals soaring to unprecedented heights!

    In the Arena Champion Battle, only Moon Fairy had defeated Simu You, while the prodigies of the other three Immortal Empires in the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion were still locked in fiercebat. As the challengers fell one by one, interest there waned.

    So now, the collision between the <em>Macho Men</em> of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire and the <em>Royal Roster</em> of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire became the apex battle of the first day of the War of Immortals!

    <em>RUMBLE RUMBLE RUMBLE! </em>As the walls of the immortal battlefield fell and the ten warriors met, the Heavenly Realm boiled over once more!

    The two mightiest human teams shed!

    "Divine Dawn! Yun Xiao!" Countless cultivators of the Heavenly Realm roared in frenzy.

    The scions of the Azure Leaf faction''s noble families took pride in the Grand Temple''s Dragon Ranking students, but themon folk preferred the Macho Men, taking pride in the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire.

    Their cries of Divine Dawn resonated as the name of the Immortal Empire!

    "Violet Sky! Crown Prince!" Inparison, the cheers for the Violet Sky Immortal Empire were somewhat weaker.

    After all, the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire was the host!

    "Violet Sky! Crown Prince!" Unexpectedly, in the next moment, tens of millions of demons joined the cultivators of Violet Sky, shouting in unison!

    The cries of both sides now stood in equal opposition!

    To the uninformed, it would seem Violet Sky was representing the demons.

    This earth-shattering chorus even left Yun Xiao a bit dazed. He had just ovee a tribtion. For there to be so much cheering, which popr team was he facing now?

    As the fog ahead dispersed, Yun Xiao and his blood-stainedpanions, including Chen Jin, looked ahead intently. The first to catch their eyes were two identical little princesses, with their long violet hair and charming features.

    "Weren''t those two with that Peacock Prince, Kong Ming? Weaklings like them are taking part in this battle?" Yun Xiao wondered.

    His confusion dissipated as his gaze fell on the other three youths. Two were at the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm,parable to Ye Shengyin, and one was at the Saint Realm!

    Zhao Xiaotang quickly informed Yun Xiao of their identities.

    "The Crown Prince? And the rest are princes and princesses?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Right. They''re basically Violet Sky''s future," Zhao Xiaotang replied.

    "Is the Violet Emperor doing charity work, sending them all so neatly?" Yun Xiao joked.

    "Judging from the massive cheering, they seem to think we''re inferior to them!" Chen Jin sneered.

    "Oh, is that so?" Yun Xiao nced forward, then said with a hint of disappointment, "You guys should rest."

    "..." His fourpanions were speechless. But with an exasperated sigh, they turned and retreated, sitting down cross-legged, taking out medicinal pills to share and heal their wounds. They had actually gone to rest!

    Yun Xiao, alone in his fluttering white robe, approached the roster of Violet Sky princes and princesses.

    Before him, the Violet Sky Crown Prince looked at Yun Xiao with a frivolous and intrigued gaze.

    "Big Brother, I told you, his rank on the Ascension Board is above yours only because those four sacrificed themselves to boost him up," the fifth princess said, her brows dancing with a hint of disdain.

    The Cycle Battle was a closed box, preventing the spread of news. So, not everyone had heard of Yun Xiao''s feat of defeating a whole team on his own.

    In their eyes, Yun Xiao''s prowess was still at the level when he fought Kong Ming.

    The sixth princess nced back at Chen Jin and the others, bloodied and battered, and rolled her eyes, "Still ying along with his charade, even in this state? What''s so special about this guy?"

    "Brother, just send this brainless brute to his demise."

    "His audacity to insult and kill a Demon Emperor''s son sealed his fate today. That''s the price of being brainless!"

    The two princesses sang in tune, their eyes gleaming with a smug light.

    The Crown Prince chuckled and then turned to the two princes, "I''ll take care of those four sick dogs. Which of you wants Yun Xiao''s head?"

    "Me!" both the second and third princes mored.

    Just then, a streak of azure sword light emerged. The technique was mysterious. Its essence was the Constetion ying Sword''s Meteor Shower, capable of conjuring ten starry sword shadows. But its behavior was like skimming stones on water! Ten starry sword shadows skimmed like stones, creating a series of explosive sounds!

    This was Meteor Showerbined with the Ten-Step Scale!

    Two vastly different sword techniques miraculously merged, striking out in an inconceivable manner.

    <em>HUM! </em>The Demon Emperor''s demon magic, Night March of a Hundred Ghosts, instantly shone in the eyes of the Violet Sky princes and princesses.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The azure sword light shed explosively.

    The two princesses were still smirking smugly.

    The two princes were still vying to take down Yun Xiao.

    <em>THUD THUD THUD THUD!</em> Four sounds echoed, and their heads neatly hit the ground!

    Blood sttered everywhere!

    Only the Saint Realm Crown Prince of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire remained! His smiling face suddenly froze, his breath growing heavier. Turning around, his eyes were bloodshot.

    Before him, the young man in white held his Sword Soul, looking at the Crown Prince with a slight smile. "I''m just clearing the area, why so breathless?"

 Chapter 188: Killing With a Sovereign Sword!

    Chapter 188: Killing With a Sovereign Sword!

    "Kill him!" The cultivators of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire and millions of demons roared in unison, causing the magical formation of the first square to tremble slightly.

    At the Ascension Gate, the Violet Emperor, who was still in a conversation with Ye Qingtian, suddenly froze. Bloodshot veins in his eyes snaked out like serpents, and his face sank into a dark gloom.

    The heirs he had painstakingly nurtured for over a decade had notsted even a moment. Four of them, gone in the blink of an eye, ascending to heaven!

    This was a scenario all too familiar to Ye Qingtian, Mu Tianshi, and You Fengya.

    They had stretched their imaginations to predict Yun Xiao''s potential, but all of them still failed to predict this oue. After all, Yun Xiao was a person of great destiny, capable of provoking the heavens to invoke a Great Merciful Tribtion for annihtion!

    Yun Xiao had once again out-predicted their predictions, piercing through their imaginations with a single sword thrust!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Clear the area?" The face of the Violet Sky Crown Prince twisted into a blood-red mask. These were his four younger brothers and sisters. He''d watched them grow up and fondly listened to them calling out to him for over a decade. Now, only their four clever heads remained.

    A torrent of rage, vengeance, and murderous intent erupted from the Crown Prince''s chest like a volcano, unleashing an unstoppable force!

    The Crown Prince was in the Saint Realm. Having endured five Wind Fire Tribtions, he had forged his magic power into sacred power. What was once an ethereal force had almost turned into a liquid violet stream, coursing through his Dantian and meridians, even spilling out over his skin. It surged through his face, hair, skin, and brocade robe, transforming the Crown Prince into a figure akin to a violet Immortal deity.

    In the lore of the Immortal Empires, reaching the Saint Realm was a monumental transformation for any cultivator!

    Once one attained sainthood, theirbat prowess skyrocketed, overwhelming anyone below the Saint Realm. This was precisely why Saints held such an esteemed status in the Divine and Demon Continents.

    Up until now, in the War of Immortals, the thirteen Saints and Demon Saints were all virtually invincible, with no equal in battle!

    Among the initial betting odds, the Crown Prince ranked twelfth, cing him above Chen Xi.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, in the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, is already this powerful. Can he possibly stand against a Saint?¡±

    Suddenly, this Cycle Battle''s mightiest duel captured the attention of nearly everyone around.

    Hundreds of other ongoing battles went unnoticed!

    With a resounding ng, the infuriated Crown Prince summoned a magic treasure without another word.

    This treasure, surrounded by a violet mist and iid with violet crystals, brimmed with the force of destion. Its surface was covered in runes, and it was clearly more powerful than the Imperial Seal or the Gust Dazzle Fan.

    It was at least Mid Gxy grade!

    To Yun Xiao''s surprise, the magic treasure was a sword! ¡°A sword can be a magic treasure too?¡± he asked Nangong Xu, turning back.

    ¡°To be precise, swords make up thergest proportion of magic treasures!¡± Nangong Xu exined, slightly embarrassed.

    ¡°That makes it rather awkward for us Sword Cultivators, huh?¡± Yun Xiao shook his head. He had thought swords were exclusive to Sword Cultivators.

    ¡°The Violet Qi Sword!¡± As the sword emerged, a wave of astonished murmurs rippled through the crowd.

    Clearly, the Crown Prince had not yet faced an opponent worthy of wielding this magic sword in his rampage.

    His eyes zed with a dense violet aura, his hand gripping the Violet Qi Sword tightly. mes danced upon the de as the Holy Essence collided with the magic sword, creating an unmatched aura that bore down upon his opponent.

    "Yun Xiao," the Crown Prince said, raising his sword. His eyes exuded an imperial majesty as the Violet Qi Sword shone like the sun at its zenith. His voice was deep and resonant, "I am the true Sword Cultivator!"

    Yun Xiao found this curious. He transformed his Sword Soul into a three-foot azure de, with 250yers of Sword Aura whistling densely around it. Five Sword Rings circled like a nightmare, and his white robes fluttered as he soared, his divine countenance adding to his striking appearance.

    "Oh, are you now? My apologies. How embarrassing, and here I thought I was a Sword Cultivator all along." Yun Xiao replied sarcastically. "How about you enlighten me?"

    "Hmph!" The Crown Prince snorted. "Firstly, I don¡¯t need to toil to enhance my Sword Aura or Sword Soul. With this magic treasure in hand, my sword can break countless Sword Souls!" He represented a faction that scorned the path of sword cultivation, not only seeking to kill Yun Xiao but also to shatter everything he took pride in.

    "Go on," Yun Xiao prompted.

    "Second, Sword Souls have innate limits, but magic treasures do not! We who cultivate swords are not constrained by talent. With enough money and backing, even a youth can possess a peerless magic sword, bing a king of the Sword Dao!"

    "Anything else?"

    "Third, magic swords can transform into Flying Swords, Palm Swords, and Sovereign Swords. Controlled by thought, they can y from several thousand meters away!"

    "Is that all?"

    "There''s a fourth!" The Crown Prince pointed his sword at Yun Xiao, dering loudly, "Even if my sword is destroyed, I can simply rece it! But if your sword is destroyed, it means your death!"

    After finishing, he sneered, "You fools, tempering your own bones, shing your bone against the supreme magic treasures of others. I call your cultivation system trash. Do you concede?"

    "Agreed!" No sooner had Yun Xiao spoken than his white figure shed and vanished from its original spot.

    <em>HUM! </em>He reappeared right in front of the Crown Prince, his three-foot azure de shimmering with starlight, shing downwards in the shape of a constetion.

    The Roaring Cloud Dragon, Ghostly Blood Pool, Pr Thunder Strike, and Skydome Tempest¡ªthese four demon magics merged within the Constetion ying Sword, intertwining water, blood, wind, thunder, and the murderous intent of a constetion!

    With a single sh, his sword streaked like aet!

    This strike, tracing the ever-changing path of a constetion, was unpredictable and full of artistic swordy, brimming with killing intent.

    One sword to cut open the heavens!

    "shing swords, is it?!" the Crown Prince sneered, a sinister smile on his face. His earlier mocking of Sword Cultivators had one purpose¡ªto provoke Yun Xiao into a head-on sword sh!

    Sword techniques? The Crown Prince knew them too! He was also a dual practitioner of the Sword Dao!

    Beneath the Constetion Sword''s Comet, the Crown Prince''s sacred power buzzed, channeling endless power into his Violet Qi Sword. The sword buzzed, radiating sword energy in every direction!

    <em>KLANG! </em>With a swift motion, he thrust the Violet Qi Sword forward, its countless runes glittering as they surged towards the tip, exploding in a dazzling violet light, like a violet sun illuminating the battlefield in an instant!

    <em>Violet Qi Sword Canon, Violet Sun Illumination!</em>

    A top-tier magic sword was naturally equipped with Gxy grade sword techniques!

    The Crown Prince believed he had the advantage. His eyes shone with a violet glow as his face twisted fiercely. He summoned a force even greater than that of Yun Xiao''s as his Violet Sun Illumination collided with Yun Xiao''s Streaking Comet!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The sh of swords emitted a shrill, piercing sound that made countless onlookers cover their ears!

    Sparks flew where the des met.

    The raw power of the Violet Qi Sword and its runes shed with the demon magic and Sword Aura of Yun Xiao''s sword, creating explosive sword shockwaves that rippled outwards!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With his lower cultivation, Yun Xiao was forced several steps back, the ground beneath him cracking and breaking apart. Even so, he remained agile, his white robe fluttering as he moved with a light, carefree grace.

    Although the Crown Prince held his ground, the demon magics of water, blood, wind, and thunder unleashed by Yun Xiao''s sword enveloped him. Numerous dense Sword Auras tore through his magic armor, leaving deep, deadly marks on his hands and face.

    Half of his body was soaked in blood!

    "He might be less powerful than me, but his Sword Rings and demon magic are brutally effective!" the Crown Prince thought, wiping the blood from his eyes, staring at Yun Xiao in disbelief.

    Had Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul shattered upon shing with the Violet Qi Sword? This was what the Crown Prince most wanted to know. But then, he was stunned at the scene before him.

    Far from being shattered, Yun Xiao''s sword grew in size until it transformed into a six-foot-long Sovereign Sword! Taller than a man and wider than a palm, floating horizontally in the air, it was a massive azure sword!

    When the Sword Aura and Sword Rings of this colossal azure sword emerged, the dazzling visual spectacle was simply breathtaking!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Just as the Crown Prince parried the demonic assault, Yun Xiao soared onto the six-foot Sovereign Sword, his feetnding firmly on the de, pointing its tip directly at the Crown Prince.

    "Trying to flee on a Sovereign Sword?!" the Crown Prince sneered, gripping his Violet Qi Sword and shattering the ground beneath him with a step, his sacred power swirling as he charged at Yun Xiao.

    <em>Sovereign Sword Technique, Fleeting Moon!</em>

    From a distance, Nangong Xu, sensing something, paused his healing to watch with eyes shining brightly.

    In that instant, Yun Xiao and the six-foot green Sovereign Sword vanished from their spot!

    The Heaven Burial Sword Soul, in that split second, exploded with a speed rivaling a Flying Sword, carrying Yun Xiao in an azure storm of stars. Like a colossal beast sweeping across the sky, he charged head-on towards the Crown Prince.

    The scene was akin to a horse charging into a person!

    <em>VROOM! </em>The azure storm of man and sword burst forth with deafening sonic booms. What appeared to be a straightforward charge on the Sovereign Sword was actually abination of the Constetion ying Sword''s Fleeting Moon and Ten-Step Scale!

    In a sh of light, the Crown Prince couldn''t see where Yun Xiao and his sword were anymore! What a joke! He''d spoken so much nonsense, only to be leftpletely helpless in the wake of Yun Xiao''s sword technique!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Crown Prince couldn''t see Yun Xiao, but suddenly, ny-nine bloodshot giant eyes appeared before him, nketing the sky. Each eye held a malevolent spirit, haunting his soul with their ghostly gazes!

    "AAAHH!" Blood clouded the Crown Prince''s eyes, and the sweat-inducing terror of death seized his soul.

    In this fatal moment, a chill ran down his spine. His mind nked as he swung his Violet Qi Sword wildly, shing forward in desperation with the techniques of the Violet Qi Sword Canon. Never had he felt his Violet Qi Sword so powerless, so alien in his hands!

    "No!" the Crown Prince cried out. As the Violet Qi Sword struck out, a massive azure sword tip suddenly pierced through the illusory soul-ensnaring technique, striking like lightning. It was like a charging cavalier, knocking the Violet Qi Sword aside.

    And atop this sword, a white-robed youth leaned forward, masterfully controlling the Sovereign Sword!

    <em>PUFF! </em>The tip of the six-foot giant azure sword pierced straight through the Crown Prince''s chest!

    <em>VROOM! </em>Yun Xiao, riding the six-foot Sovereign Sword, carried the Crown Prince forward, dragging a two-hundred-yard-long trail of blood!

    <em>BAM! </em>The tip of the giant azure sword prated the Prince¡¯s chest and spine, crashing into the wall of the first square, causing a thunderous rumble across the battlefield!

    "Ugh!" The Crown Prince dangled limply, impaled by the giant sword on the wall, his legs hanging as blood and visceral fragments cascaded down. "Yun Xiao..." His eyes nearly popped out in shock.

    And there, standing on the sword, the white-robed youth stood casually, his robes fluttering, looking as majestic as a deity.

    "Strike, a strike! Mowed dwon in a single sword strike!" Zhao Xiaotang shouted in awe, his eyes sparkling.

    "Not a sword strike! More like vehicr ughter!!" Chen Jin pped Zhao Xiaotang''s head in excitement, not realizing his own strength, almost sending him reeling.

    "So cool! A Sovereign Sword can kill? And that blow was so powerful too!" Stray Dog gazed in admiration, eyes wide with revtion.

    Almost everyone present was seeing for the first time that a Sovereign Sword could be used to kill so spectacrly!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 189: Topping the Ascension Board

    Chapter 189: Topping the Ascension Board

    The key was, Yun Xiao killed with such style and ferocity! The visual impact was like a cavalry charge crashing into infantry, sending them flying into the sky. People couldn''t help but feel a chill in their chests, as if the sword had struck them personally.

    "Wow, what a crash!! Did you see the speed of that Sovereign Sword?"

    "Go Yun Xiao!"

    "Divine Dawn reigns supreme!"

    Deafening cheers once again shook the Heavenly Realm. This was the loudest it had ever been!

    But in truth, the Crown Prince of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire wasn''tpletely dead yet. His eyes were dim, his face pale, and his hands trembled and twitched. He stared fixedly at the Violet Qi Sword lying on the ground.

    He was summoning the sword! He still hoped to turn the tide! Sadly, the Violet Qi Swordy motionless, as if dead.

    Meanwhile, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul piercing his chest was slowly dismembering him with its Sword Aura and demon magic!

    "Sword! Come to me, sword!" The Crown Prince coughed up ck blood, stretching his hand towards the Violet Qi Sword with all his might.

    "The sword doesn''t want toe," Yun Xiao said, stepping on the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and the Crown Prince''s head, looking down at him with an icy gaze. "To you, it''s just one of many swords in your life, disposable at any moment. But to it, weren''t you just one of its many masters? When you die, it will find a new master and continue its merry life. What does it have to do with you?"

    "No, no! I polish it every day, the Violet Qi Sword wouldn''t betray me..." The Crown Prince red at him furiously.

    "Even with polishing, it remains an external possession." Yun Xiao reached out, and the Violet Qi Sword flew into his hand, immediately wailing in submission to him.

    Holding the Violet Qi Sword, Yun Xiao patted the Crown Prince''s face and chuckled. "Your sword, at everyone''s disposal. You call this sword cultivation? At best, it''s just treasure refinement."

    "Yun Xiao, I have no words for my defeat in battle, but don''t you dare insult my swordsmanship!" The Crown Prince clutched the six-foot giant azure sword impaling him, his body dissolving into ck blood and thick smoke under the destruction of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "To defeat you, I used my feet to wield a sword, and you say I''m insulting your swordsmanship?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    These words shattered the Crown Prince''s heartpletely. It was as if he were dying twice, both in body and spirit¡ªquite the tragic end.

    What the Crown Prince had once taken pride in became a joke before the crowd. The tale of the Crown Prince of Violet Sky, humiliated by a sword wielder who used his feet to strike a deadly blow, would spread across the Divine Continent.

    "You!" The Crown Prince''s tears of blood streamed as he watched Yun Xiao y with the Violet Qi Sword he had polished daily, his heart breaking into pieces.

    Just then, the six-foot Sovereign Sword transformed into a Palm Sword, returning to Yun Xiao''s hand.

    The Crown Prince, bloody and torn, slid down the wall of the battle arena.

    "Don''t..." In the Crown Prince''s dim and despairing eyes, he saw Yun Xiao grasp the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in one hand and the Violet Qi Sword in the other. Then, Yun Xiao swung the Heaven Burial Sword Soul fiercely, striking the Violet Qi Sword!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The Violet Qi Sword wailed mournfully, shattering into two and ttering to the ground. And the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, like an abyss of death, devoured the soul essence of countless past masters of the Violet Qi Sword.

    With this scene, the Crown Prince vomited anotherrge mouthful of ck blood. He had slid to the ground, his body going limp, slowly kneeling before Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao nced at him. "In your next life, you might again resort to tricks, continue to be a Sword Cultivator wielding peerless swords. Even if you possess some ancient apocalyptic divine sword, against me, you won''t even have the time to unsheathe your precious de."

    <em>A bone for a sword, as long as the sword exists, so does life!</em>

    <em>Strengthen oneself, why depend on a sword?</em>

    <em>The person is the sword, and the sword is the person!</em>

    <em>Forge oneself into a supreme sword of the world, capable of piercing heavens and obliteratingnds, a thought to kill with the sword!</em>

    <em>Don''t wait for the sword to reach your throat, life approaching theherworld, to then seek an external sword!</em>

    <em>When a person dies, how can the sworde?</em>

    "Besides, my Sword Soul is the embryo of an infinite universe! You, with your external possessions, trying to outdo me?"

    "Y-you¡­" The light in the Crown Prince''''s eyes dimmed in utter despair and copse. His head and hands slowly drooped, kneeling dead before Yun Xiao.

    "Worthless trash!" Yun Xiao casually kicked the broken Violet Qi Sword towards the Crown Prince. "Such a sword, even in death, you can''t take to your grave."

    Having said that, he took over three hundred War of Immortals Jade tokens from the Crown Prince''s body.

    <em>HUM! </em>His rank on the Ascension Board instantly soared to fifth ce!

    This was the umtion of the War of Immortal Jade tokens from two of the strongest participants in the Cycle Battle.

    Yun Xiao then collected the War of Immortal Jade tokens from the remaining two princes and princesses of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, boosting his rank on the Ascension Board to fourth ce!

    Without the golden War of Immortals Jade tokens, he had forcefully made his way to the top among humans!

    In terms of efficiency, he had already won his wager with Chen Xi.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Ascension Gate, the Supreme Marshal turned, facing the group of human powerhouses behind him.

    "Well, if it isn''t the Violet Emperor?" the Supreme Marshal remarked in surprise.

    Before him, the Violet Emperor''s visage was as dark as still waters, his handsome face veiled in a deep bloodiness. He recalled the earth-shattering cheers from the first square and the sight of the Crown Prince''s shattered Violet Qi Sword and kneeling demise¡­ It was like a thousand swords piercing his heart, blood dripping profusely!

    As anticipated, the War of Immortals was a brutal struggle for life and death. Whether human, demon, or false demon, no mercy was shown. Beneath the Ascension Gate, rivers of blood had already formed! As it stood, the demons had lost. The false demons had suffered the most grievous defeat.

    "Congrattions to Marshal Chen on acquiring such a heaven-defying talent," the Violet Emperor spoke faintly, ncing at Yun Xiao. "With such a son-inw, your chances of ascending the throne are significant."

    "The Violet Emperor jokes. Even if my Empress ascends to immortality, with Master Ye in ce, it wouldn''t be my turn," the Supreme Marshal said with a smile, looking towards Ye Qingtian. "Besides, with the support of the Violet Emperor, you three are almost ready to clear the imperial side. How dare I?"

    "Child''s y, nothing for Marshal Chen to concern himself with," You Fengya added.

    "Indeed! With this mischievous child You Qing gone to heaven, I am indeed at ease." the Supreme Marshalughed. He was practically giddy with delight! With his daughter and son-inw wreaking havoc below, he stood firm against four adversaries, standing tall.

    And these four leaders of the false demons, amidst the agony of a thousand swords, had to contain their raging fury!

    The battle, which had begun at midnight, continued until dawn. Yet, the Cycle Battle and the Arena Champion Battle would persist until the afternoon!

    "I hear Marshal Chen has deployed the Nine Heavens Immortal Army to patrol the entire Heavenly Realm day and night?" the Violet Emperor remarked, ncing at the rising sun.

    "Can''t help it, our demon friends are too enthusiastic; worried they might get lost in the Heavenly Realm," the Supreme Marshal replied.

    "Oh? Marshal Chen is indeed considerate," the Violet Emperor said, his eyes like deep abysses, "Just that at night, when you can''t see your own hand in front of your face, please ensure the safety of your troops, Supreme Marshal. Wouldn''t want them falling into pits and all dying."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    With the death of the Crown Prince of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, Yun Xiao''s sword soared to the heavens!

    A single name shook both the Divine and Demon Continents. But this was just the beginning! Following that, Yun Xiao fully unleashed his power. Each time the wall for the next battle opened, Yun Xiao needed only a nce.

    If it was a demon, he eliminated them in an instant. If they were from the Violet Sky or Azure Leaf faction of the human race, they were also extinguished with a single sword strike. Others were defeated with ease.

    So, the efficiency of their five-person squad in switching opponents depended on how quickly the wall separating the two squares was removed.

    Just as Yun Xiao had said at the beginning, as long as he killed fast enough, most teams in the Cycle Battle would ultimately face him. He crushed them effortlessly!

    "Theter the teams encounter him, the more War of Immortals Jade tokens they have."

    So the rate at which Yun Xiao''s collection of War of Immortal Jade tokens grew also increased significantly.

    There were a total of five thousand War of Immortal Jade tokens in the Cycle Battle!

    His collection steadily grew, and by the afternoon, he had amassed three thousand tokens!

    "As long as you''re strong enough, the efficiency of the Cycle Battle even surpasses that of the Arena Champion Battle!"

    In the Arena Champion Battle, one waited for challengers one by one, the speed dependent on others.

    In the Cycle Battle, you only needed to defeat a batch of opponents, then switch to another, the speed depending on oneself.

    Yun Xiao''s swordy in ying enemies was astoundingly fast.

    "Sword Cultivators are all about speed!"

    "A master of the quick sword!"

    People were awestruck. Their understanding of Sword Cultivators was redefined!

    By the end of the first day of the War of Immortals, Yun Xiao had already reached the top of the Ascension Board, leading the second ce by over a thousand tokens!

    The second ce was Chen Xi! Using her human identity, she attracted many demon challengers, overtaking many talents from the Demon Continent along the way.

    First and second ce, for the time being, belonged to the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire.

    The initial rankings of the battle were beyond any betting house''s predictions.

    By the time anyone thought to bet on Yun Xiao, it was already toote.

    "I dere the first day of the War of Immortals concluded!"

    "Tonight at midnight, the Grand Melee begins,sting half an hour, to determine the top Immortal in the human world!" You Fengya announced.

    The Divine Dawn Immortal Empire''s momentum was soaring. But as the Prime Minister of Divine Dawn, his tone wasn''t very pleasant. Such an attitude only made it clearer to the people of the Heavenly Realm the true nature of these hypocritical Saints and Demon Continentpdogs!

    After the announcement, the Violet Emperor, Ye Qingtian, Mutianshi, and You Fengya left with cold expressions.

    Ye Qingtian nced towards the direction of the Sword Dao Monument, his eyes ghostly and sinister.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Hey." Just as Yun Xiao and his four teammates were leaving the first square, someone called out to him. Turning around, he saw a girl in a white dress standing in the twilight. Her dress was stained with some demon blood, but herplexion looked quite good, like a lotus rising unsoiled from the mud.

    "We''ll go ahead!" Chen Jin and the others quickly left upon seeing this. They were true brothers!

    Under the setting sun, this envied couple walked side by side towards home. On the Ascension Board, their names at the very front shone brightly together.

    "I won the bet today," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "So?" Chen Xi''s face was slightly lowered, her expression hidden, her voice calm.

    Yun Xiao smiled faintly, not answering her question but instead saying regretfully. "Things are getting a bit messy."

    "What do you mean?" Chen Xi nced at him.

    "Going on like this, I''m likely to be the top Immortal and marry the Divine Dawn Empress. You''re about to be heartbroken," Yun Xiao said.

    Chen Xi huffed, retorting, "You''re already married, and you have me as a wife. Stop daydreaming."

    "A daydream, huh? The War of the Immortals, the death of Eternal Joy, the wedding... everything so far has felt like one big daydream, hasn''t it?" Yun Xiao nodded with a thoughtful expression. Then, he turned to her with a teasing smile. "Speaking of the wedding, you never did pay me that dowry."

    "..." Chen Xi looked at him, stunned.

    "Hey, let''sy out all our cards on the table. I think it''s about time we both stop pretending." Yun Xiao suddenly stopped, his eyes burning as he looked at her.

    "What?" Chen Xi bit her lip, looking at him.

    "Aren''t you meeting me tomorrow night after the War of Immortals ends?" Yun Xiao took her hand, looking down with a slight smile. "If you wear the dragon robe and the crown, I might get a bit excited¡­"

 Chapter 190: As long as Yun Xiaos Protected, We Are Invincible

    Chapter 190: As long as Yun Xiao''s Protected, We Are Invincible

    Night fell. In the Ancestral Temple, within a vast and dark hall, shrouded in ck mist and heavy with demonic aura, sat 108 Demon Saints, solemn and heads bowed. Among them, some bared elongated fangs, their veins bulging in fierce agitation.

    Before them were three esteemed seats. On the left, a seductively dangerous woman wreathed in bloody blossoms; on the right, a young man with hair trailing to the floor.

    The central throne, however, was empty but for a swirling mist of green, within which lurked a worm, as thick as an arm, with a fist-sized, oily green eye.

    "This is the decree from the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor," an old man in a ck robe croaked, his voice raspy. "That''s all he sent." His words fell into a prolonged silence, the thick air of bloodlust swirling among the demon ranks. Sorrow, rage, and defiance brewed in their crimson eyes.

    "Disaster fell from the heavens, ravaging our kind. Such injustice! What a hard life we lead,"mented the green mist creature in an ancient, mournful voice. "s, our fleeting existence. Born into confusion,cking what others have by birthright, forsaken by the heavens, we cling to our carnal desires, struggling nine deaths for one life''s advancement, all for a mere foothold in this world. Why must the heavens be so cruel..."

    "A merciless heaven!"

    Even the Demon Saints mourned, hearts filled with bitterness and resentment.

    "We demons are born into hardship and cold. Our race struggles to awaken their intelligence. We start offcking in everything. Yet, we are still the envy of the heavens, receiving divine punishment. Where is justice in this world?

    "The humans are born in the fertilends of the Divine Continent. They''re blessed with ease, natural intelligence, and their path to enlightenment is smooth and untroubled. Suchckadaisical spirits, yet the heavens not only grant them endless immortal energy but also destroy our Demon Continent for them. Who can respect such a heaven?

    "Humans and demons, both are seekers on the path of enlightenment. Why elevate one and crush the other? The heavens betray us, and we shall not sit idly by. If the heavens are unjust, we shall defy them! If the gods are unrighteous, we shall destroy them!"

    The demons roared in fury, their anger burning like wildfire in their chests.

    The ck-d youth on the throne rose, his eyes a fierce red. "So be it! The extermination of the Divine Continent''s human race is a fate forced upon us by the heavens, not a sin of our demon kind! Why honor the heavens when they deceive us?"

    His cold gaze swept over the crowd, his voice icy with resolve. "Tell me, among you 108 Demon Saints, is there anyone who harbors sympathy for the enemy, spouting righteousness and morality? To annihte the human race and im the fertilends of the Divine Continent was our ancestors''mand. Since the ancient wars, we''ve dyed too long, and every mother of the Demon Continent bears this sin. Had we conquered the Divine Continent earlier, why would our kin suffer now?"

    "Right! We should have devoured the Divine Continent long ago!"

    One by one, the Demon Saints stood, their eyes alight with unified purpose. Any dissent at this point would be treasonous, punishable by death.

    "The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor has already begun mobilizing troops. Once assembled¡­" the old serpent demon said excitedly, "you can coordinate from within and remotely. Just capture the Heavenly Realm, y the Divine Dawn Empress, and the other four Immortal Empires, leaderless, will crumble in due time!"

    The Demon Continent, at its strongest since the ancient wars, was on the brink of something monumental. "Tonight, at the Sword Dao Monument event, the war between the Divine Continent and Demon Continent begins anew. Do we still need topete in the chaotic talent contest?" the Ape Saint asked, bowing to the three Demon Emperors.

    "We''ll decide after seeing the Sword Dao Monument," Lotus replied, then turned to the green mist creature beside her. "Gu Emperor, any final word on the Divine Dawn Empress''s background? It''s unrted to the Endless Netherworld, right?"

    The creature''s eyes flickered with a sinister light. "It''s certain she has no ties to the Endless Netherworld. And I''ve just found a lead that, if verified, will render her unthreatening."

    "Oh? How will you verify it?" asked the ck-haired youth, his voice chilling.

    "Simple," the green mist replied coolly. "Tonight, at the War of Immortals, a suspected Divine Dawn Empress''s double might enter. We''ll stir up trouble outside. If she rushes out, we''ll have our answer."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the pce of the Divine Dawn Empress, a regal figure in dragon robes sat majestically on the throne, surrounded by eight masked figures.

    "The crisis in the Demon Continent was an unforeseenplication," the Divine Dawn Empress spoke, her voice deep, with blood-colored thunder swirling across her face. Electric sparks flowed from her, dancing along the throne, carpet, and coiling around the dragon pirs, even entwining thenterns and candles, making the mes and electric serpents leap together.

    "This unexpected turn, coupled with the sudden surge in the Divine Continent''s spiritual energy, has undoubtedly pushed the demons to desperation. Their ambition to invade the Divine Continent will now unite them like never before, bolstering the resolve of the demon army dramatically," the second shadowy figure second, slightly stooped with age.

    "These developments are favorable but ill-timed," the Divine Dawn Empress mused, gazing at the darkened sky outside. "However, the ambitions of the Demon Continent are well-known. These changes only alter the timeline."

    Initially, it was the Divine Dawn Empress who steadily advanced the war, but now it seemed the demon army might strike first.

    "It will take at least a day or two for the Demon Continent to mobilize its forces, and we are already prepared for battle. The recent heavenly catastrophe reduced a third of the demon army''s strength, significantly narrowing the gap between our forces," the second figure added, looking up at the Divine Dawn Empress with determination. "The key to the war between the Divine Continent and Demon Continent lies in the duel between the Demon Emperors. Your Majesty, by ying Eternal Joy, you''ve eased the pressure, but facing four adversaries still..."

    "Leave it to me," the Divine Dawn Empress said calmly, her tone imbued with immense confidence, inspiring the eight masked figures with renewed belief and fervor.

    "All hail the Divine Dawn Empress!"

    Their eyes shone with intense admiration.

    "Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth," the Divine Dawn Empress addressed thest three figures, "along with Ninth, take the Thunder Essence and protect Yun Xiao. With you four guarding him, even if the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor attacks, your initial defense will ensure his safety."

    The eight shadows nodded, slightly taken aback by the order.

    Today, Yun Xiao ascended to the top of the Ascension Board, showcasing his exceptional talent.

    Though a year older than the Divine Dawn Empress, the people of the Divine Continent already viewed him as her sessor, the future Emperor of the human race. But he was just a young prodigy. In these critical times, hiding would suffice. Why the need for such extensive protection? Why was he so crucial to the Divine Dawn Empress? They didn''t understand.

    Seeing their confusion, the Divine Dawn Empress smiled faintly. "All you need to know is that as long as he survives till tomorrow, I am invincible."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Under the dim night sky, the decisive battle of the War of Immortals loomed, a quiet before the storm.

    This usually bustling night was subdued by the news of the crisis in the Demon Continent, leaving the citizens of the Heavenly Realm with a sense of foreboding, unusually silent. The streets were mostly patrolled by the disciplined ranks of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army and the Heavenly Realm''s guards.

    In this eerie, deep night, Moon Fairy and two women approached the solemn and fortified Ancestral Temple. Once a sacred site for Heavenly Realm''s ns, it was now a den for demons.

    The two women were Lady Hua Lian, silent and ghost-like, with a mncholic gaze and pale lips, and the ck-d, vivacious Tian Lu, now arm-in-arm with Moon Fairy, her youthful energy vibrant in every giggle and pout.

    "Little fox, let me see your ears!" Tian Lu yfully parted his silver hair, revealing a pink fox ear, her eyes lighting up. "Wow, pink! So cute!"

    Moon Fairy looked down and smiled. "Your little ck dog ears are pretty cute too."

    "Presumptuous!" the ck-d girl red at him, her canine teeth slightly bared, her tone fierce. "You are my servant. I may tease you, but you''re not to judge me."

    "Yes." Moon Fairy nodded obediently.

    "You defied me today, and I haven''t settled that with you yet! From now on, be good and do as I say. Understand?" she said, tugging at his ear with a hint of dominance.

    "Understood, Master," Moon Fairy replied calmly.

    "Hehe! Calling me ''master'' without being told first? Good! Good!" She continued, arm in arm with him. "Perform well at my brother''s ce. Your future hinges on this."

    "I''ll try." Moon Fairy nced at her profile. The small canine teeth, her bright, sparkling dark eyes, she did possess a lively charm. "She''s quite cute, pity she''s a dog," he mused to himself.

    "Do you like my Destion Armor?" Tian Lu twirled, her skirt whirling into ck mes, transforming her into a phoenix rising from the ashes.

    Destion Armor, a demon''s treasure, embedded with raw Deste Essence. It also served as clothes, making transforming between human and demon forms convenient. Indeed, it appeared demons had civilized, moving beyond beastly instincts.

    "Ordinary armor, but on you, it''s a masterpiece," Moon Fairyplimented.

    Lady Hua Lian, trailing behind, didn''t hear this, or she might have exploded with envy.

    "Really?" the girl blushed slightly at his words. "You have good taste! This is a high quality Destion Armor, imbued with seven top-tier elements, specially worn for ughtering humans in a few hours!"

    "Oh? Then I wish you triumphant sess, Master," Moon Fairy said, eyeing the armor enviously.

    As they spoke, a dark temple loomed ahead.

    The ck-d girl pulled Moon Fairy inside, then called out to a young man in ck robes seated above, "Brother, I''ve brought him! Use him as you wish, don''t be polite on my ount!"

    Moon Fairy''s face remained calm, but a cold tide surged in his eyes.

    "Moon Fairy, at your service, Eclipse Demon Emperor."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 191: The Fox and the Hound

    Chapter 191: The Fox and the Hound

    The Eclipse Demon Emperor was a Heavenly Hound rumored to be even stronger than the ck peacock, Eternal Joy Demon Emperor. Now, that very being was before Moon Fairy.

    Moon Fairy had never expected to be confronted by a youth¡ªat least, he appeared to be one.

    "You fool, kneel before my brother!" The girl in ck grabbed Moon Fairy''s shoulders and, with a surge of annoyance, forcefully pushed him down.

    "Haha, It''s fine. Stand up," Eclipse chuckled, descending from above. He said to the girl, "Don''t be so violent, or you''ll never find a husband."

    "Marry? Not a chance. Our n has you to carry on the lineage. I n to live freely until the end," the girl in ck retorted, pouting.

    "Live freely until the end?" Eclipse now stood in front of Moon Fairy, his dark eyes examining her, a slight smirk on his lips. "It seems you''ve taken a liking to flirting with other species."

    "Stupid brother! What are you saying?" She red at him, teeth clenched.

    Eclipse chuckled, patting Moon Fairy''s shoulder. "Foxes are still canines. So, they''re still under my dominion among the beast demons. You''re simr to dogs in size and structure. So, there''s no reason you two can''t mingle!"

    "Mingle?" The word made Tian Lu''s cheeks flush red. "Stop talking nonsense. He''s my servant!"

    "Alright, no more teasing," Eclipse said with an affectionate nce at his sister. His gaze then shifted back to Moon Fairy, growing more authoritative. "Punch me! Give it everything you''ve got!"

    "This..." Moon Fairy looked towards the girl in ck.

    "Do as you''re told!" the girlmanded.

    "Yes!" Moon Fairy nodded, clenched his fist, and with all his might, struck Eclipse''s chest. With a thunderous boom, his punchnded on Eclipse as though he were striking a steel wall. A recoiling force reverberated from Eclipse, jolting his entire body.

    <em>CRACK! SNAP! POP! </em> Moon Fairy''s frame crackled, blood seeping through his skin. A mouthful of clotted blood sprayed from his lips as he was hurled backward through the air.

    "Not bad!" In an instant, Eclipse grasped his cor, lifting him up. His voice was intense, "Lady Hua Lian is but a gentle demon,cking ambition, foresight, and the bigger picture. You were raised by her. If Imand you to y ten thousand to prove your loyalty, what would you do?"

    Wiping the blood from his mouth, Moon Fairy''s eyes zed as he looked at Eclipse. "Ten thousand? That''s not enough. I''ll kill a hundred thousand! The heavens are unjust to our demon kind, favoring humans as their darlings. They must pay for this sin! For my demon kin, I am willing to shed every drop of blood, to sacrifice my life!"

    "Good!" Eclipse chuckled, dropping him to the ground. With a gesture, a suit of armor, glowing with silver mes, appeared in his hand. "This is the Lunar me Armor, an Upper Gxy grade magic treasure, tempered with seven kinds of Deste Essence. I bestow it upon you. In return, you must strive a thousandfold to live up to the Demon Continent''s expectations."

    Moon Fairy took the Lunar me Armor into his grasp. As he held it in his hands, his breath quickened and his eyes sparkled with excitement, as if he were overwhelmed to speak.

    He nced back at Lady Hua Lian.

    Hua Lian knelt gracefully, her delicate body trembling and her voice filled with gratitude, "On behalf of my disciple, I thank the Demon Emperor, I thank our n!"

    Eclipse looked at her coldly, hands behind his back. "Although the Fox n is traditionally weak, it''s known for loyalty. Lady Hua Lian, you mightck prowess, but if you can raise another Emperor for our beasts, your name will be honored through the ages."

    "Yes¡­" Hua Lian and Moon Fairy exchanged a nce, her lips quivering, her head bowed in silence.

    "Enough," Eclipse waved dismissively. "I have important matters to attend to. You may leave. With the night full of changes, do not wander aimlessly."

    "Got it, nag!" The girl in ck was in high spirits. She huffed at Moon Fairy, "Lunar me Armor, lucky you, servant!"

    With a flick of her finger, she beckoned Moon Fairy and strode away.

    Moon Fairy followed the girl in ck out of the pce.

    As soon as they stepped outside, the girl blinked slyly and whispered, "Let''s go wander around. The Heavenly Realm is full of exciting ces."

    "But your brother said¡­"

    "Forget him. He''s always overreacting. If anything happens, I''ll protect you!" the girl in ck dered.

    Moon Fairy nced at the armor the girl wore, a mischievous smile curling up on his lips. "Alright, I know a fun ce. I''ll take you there."

    "Oh? It better be fun. If it''s not, you''re in big trouble!" the girl threatened yfully.

    Just then, he felt a gaze upon them. Turning, he saw Lady Hua Lian still standing there, his expression worried. "Maybe we shouldn¡¯t¡­"

    "Shut it," the girl in ck said coldly. "If you b, I''ll chop off your tail!"

    "She''s my master, the one who raised me," Moon Fairy said earnestly.

    "Fine," the girl in ck relented, rolling her eyes and softening slightly towards Lady Hua Lian. "Just keep quiet."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Deep within the dark pce, in a hidden underground chamber, a scene of gorey beauty unfolded.

    The chamber was shrouded in blood-red, with countless blood-red petals fluttering in the air. In the midst of the crimson fog, two blood-red lotuses bloomed¡ªonerge, one small.

    Below themy ny-nine human corpses. The roots of these two lotuses were embedded in the bodies, drawing sustenance from the flesh and blood, thriving with eerie vitality.

    The lotuses swayed rhythmically. Therger one enveloped the smaller, their petals touching tenderly, almost affectionately¡ªan unsettling disy of gentleness from such nts.

    In their dance, the myriad blood lotuses asionally faintly transformed into the silhouettes of two people, their voices echoing softly, lost in a haunting, intoxicating cadence.

    As the Eclipse Demon Emperor knocked from outside, the myriad blood lotuses transformed into two figures.

    One was the Red Lotus Demon Emperor, and the other, a young man with blood-red hair. He was tall, reaching only up to the neck of the lotus. His skin was pale, his frame slightly slender, and he bore an eerie beauty.

    "Mother, I''m leaving now," the blood-haired youth said obediently.

    "Go and have fun, but don''t leave the Ancestral Temple tonight," Red Lotus replied, gently caressing his head with a tender voice.

    "Yes." The youth turned and left. Upon opening the door, he politely greeted the Eclipse Demon Emperor.

    After he departed, Eclipse looked at Red Lotus, now dressed and devilishly poised, and remarked, "You two are truly fascinating."

    Red Lotus shot him a yful re. "Lil Tian, we''re spirits of nature, unbound by mortal ethics. In this chaotic world, we simply seek to survive."

    Eclipse couldn''t help but chuckle.

    "If you desire, I wouldn''t refuse," Red Lotus whispered with a softugh.

    Eclipse was taken aback, shaking his head vigorously.

    "Forget it. I may be a dog, but I''m not that reckless."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Little fox!" The girl in ck gazed at the deste mountain before her, turning to Moon Fairy in annoyance. "What is this ce? Why did you bring me here?"

    "Shush," Moon Fairy replied, his gaze gentle. "Don''t rush; we''re almost there."

    "Oh?" The girl red at her. "If I find out this isn''t fun, I''ll chop you to pieces!"

    "Don''t worry." Moon Fairy walked barefoot across the mountainous terrain, leading the way.

    In the wilderness, a fox and a hound, true to their natures, reverted to their primal forms and ran wild through the forest.

    Moon Fairy, in his fox form, was a vision of silver elegance, bathed in moonlight. The girl in ck transformed into a sleek, agile ck hound, her fur dark as night, with a blood-red crescent on her forehead. Her eyes were deep and chilling, a rare and exotic beast.

    Demons had their whims, especially dog demons, for whom yfulness was inherent.

    The genuine she-dog frolicked with the three-tailed demon fox, gradually losing their wariness amidst their y. Unexpectedly, the fox and the hound, matched in size and agility, appeared quite the pair in this magical, dreamlike dance.

    "Little fox, don''t run!" the hound cried out in a girl''s voice. "God damn! You sure can slip away!"

    Soon, the three-tailed demon fox stopped, transforming back into a silver-haired youth, while the heavenly hound halted abruptly, morphing into a slender girl in ck, crashing into each other''s arms. They both fell to the ground.

    Moon Fairy casually wrapped his arm around her slender waist, gazing into her eyes.

    "Let go!" The girl in ck showed her canine teeth, her re fierce, yet she made no move to escape.

    "I won''t," Moon Fairy said, looking around calmly. "Do you know where we are?"

    Her attention diverted, the girl looked around in confusion. "Where is this? Is this the <em>fun ce</em> you were talking about?"

    "Exactly." Moon Fairy leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Just a few days ago, the son of Eternal Joy and the two Violet Sky princesses yed right here on this rock beneath us..."

    The girl in ck froze, then flushed with both embarrassment and anger. "Little fox, you''ve got some nerve, even daring to tease me?"

    "Don''t you like me? If not, why do you treat me differently?" Moon Fairy''s eyes swirled, drawing her in. The vortex in his gaze, like an ocean, became even more mesmerizing in the wild, deste mountains under the open sky.

    In that fleeting moment, as the girl in ck''s eyes wavered and her breath quickened, Moon Fairy''s expression turned icy. His face morphed into that of a fox, and with a mouth dyed crimson, he bit fiercely into the tender neck of the girl in ck, mere inches away.

    Rip and tear! The sounds of flesh tearing and bones cracking filled the air. With a sharp snap, Moon Fairy bit off two-thirds of the girl''s neck. <em>THUD! </em>He struck her head with a swift blow of his paw.

    <em>THUMP THUMP THUMP! </em>The girl''s head rolled away, transforming into the head of a dog, her eyes wide open in death.

    "Ptui!" Moon Fairy pushed her body aside and spat out the blood and flesh from his mouth. Gazing at the dog''s head, he uttered coldly, "In my life, I yield to no one. Yet, you forced me to kneel to your brother?"

    With those words, he stripped the armor from the corpse and disappeared into the night, striding away.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Heavenly Realm stood the Eternal Joy Inn. This inn was specially built years ago when the former emperor, Ye Qingtian hosted the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor. Now, the inn remained, but the Demon Emperor was no more.

    The location of the Eternal Joy Inn was chosen with great care. On its highest floor was an elegant room, from which one could see all ten billion sword scars on the Sword Dao Monument.

    At this moment, Ye Qingtian, You Fengya, Mu Tianshi, and many other n heads from the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire''s Ancestral Temple stood on the top floor of the Eternal Joy Inn.

    With hands sped behind their backs, they gazed at the Sword Dao Monument ahead. Under the night sky, ten billion bloody marks shone with a sinister and solemn crimson light.

 Chapter 192: Kill!

    Chapter 192: Kill!

    In the Eternal Joy Inn, nobles and n leaders with lineages spanning thousands of generations from the Heavenly Realm gathered. Without exception, they were all of the Saint Realm, holding official positions in the Immortal Empire and controlling its political andmercial lifelines. Their ns were vast, with countless students under them.

    Among the six major Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent, those at the Saint Realm were numerous, but even more so in the Demon Continent. The 108 Demon Saints were the strongest among them, and to be counted among this elite, one had to be at the Late Saint Realm at least.

    The number of Saint Realm experts was one of the most important measures of a nation''s strength!

    Clearly, most of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire''s Saint Realm forces were predominantly controlled by the Azure Leaf faction, with their intertwined marriages forming a solidwork of rtionships over generations.

    Such a web was not easily broken. Names like Ye, Mu, Han, You, Chai, Mo, Xia, Ling, etc. were all respected ns of the Heavenly Realm.

    At this moment, the gazes of dozens of n Kings shifted from the Sword Dao Monument back to a man d in an azure-gold robe¡ªYe Qingtian! He stood in the wind, clutching a ck orb in his hand, and said grimly, "Hellish Wraith, you know what to do, don''t you?"

    A series of twisted faces emerged on the ck orb, emitting an excruciating wail.

    "It''s up to you now." Ye Qingtian turned around, locking his eyes on a distinguished-looking man amidst the crowd. It was the Prime Minister, You Fengya, holding a golden scroll, his eyes solemn.

    "Don''t worry, your family and n have been taken care of. With Divine Dawn plummeting into the abyss, they won''t have time to pursue you. Once she dies, you''ll be hailed as a hero of the human race!" Ye Qingtian dered

    "In the hearts of all peace lovers across the Divine and Demon Continents, Prime Minister You should rightly be heralded as a hero," a green mist worm whispered from a corner.

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    You Fengya, with solemn respect, bowed deeply. "With the Emperor and the Gu Emperor''s endorsement, I am willing to face death without fear!"

    "Godspeed, Prime Minister!" The courtiers bowed, their eyes filled with admiration.

    You Fengya, clutching the scroll, approached the window. Before him stood the eternal monument of heroes. His gaze was steadfast, a reflection of his unwavering resolve.

    "With Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao against us, and especially thetter, harboring the deep-seated grudges of a Sword Cultivator, our only path lies in an alliance with the demons for survival," Ye Qingtian said, patting You Fengya''s shoulder. "The fate of over a million nobles of the Heavenly Realm hinges on this very gamble!"

    "Yes! The interests of our noble ns must take precedence over all of humanity!" With these words, You Fengya exchanged a fierce, knowing nce with Ye Qingtian and descended the stairs, a man on a mission with a scroll in hand, heading towards the Sword Dao Monument.

    "Follow the Prime Minister!"

    "We, the schrs, swear to follow unto death!"

    Along the streets, the well-dressed students of the Grand Temple and offspring of the great ns emerged from shops and taverns, falling in line behind You Fengya. In a short time, a force of thousands had gathered.

    They were young, impassioned, carrying <em>ideals</em> and <em>righteousness</em> in their hearts. Their faces were determined, their steps bold, as if marching towards a final, fatal confrontation. Their schrly zeal was fierce, their presencemanding. Such a procession quickly drew the attention of many.

    "The Prime Minister and all the students of the Grand Temple?"

    "What are they nning to do..."

    Under the watchful eyes of thousands, You Fengya stood before the Sword Dao Monument. Their actions had already drawn the attention of the Three Great Sword Tombs.

    From these, Sword Cultivators began to emerge, among them Nangong Xi, Youyue, and Su Lianlian, their faces stern.

    "May I ask, Prime Minister..." Nangong Xi began, but was interrupted by a gleam in You Fengya''s eye.

    "By imperial decree, the Sword Tombs are to heed thismand!" You Fengya grasped the golden scroll firmly.

    At the mention of an imperial decree, tens of thousands of Grand Temple students knelt, followed by many confused onlookers.

    "We heed the decree!" Nangong Xi and the other Sword Cultivators knelt upon hearing it was the Emperor''smand.

    You Fengya stood alone, his eyes solemn, his voice filled with fervor as he proimed to the crowd, "By the mandate of heaven, the decree of Divine Dawn states¡­ Since ancient times, the lineage of Sword Cultivators has been known for its brutality andwlessness, inciting conflict between humans and demons, bringing suffering to the people. Their crimes have brought chaos to the world!

    "Considering the sufferings of the people and unwilling to let them endure more hardships, and in light of the numerous petitions from loyal subjects, it has been decided to abolish the lineage of Sword Cultivators, dissolve the Three Great Sword Tombs, and remove the Sword Dao Monument, to restore the moral climate of the Immortal Empire and set an example. This is decreed!"

    This imperial edict struck like a bolt from the blue. The onlooking Cultivators of the Heavenly Realm were stunned. With Yun Xiao and Chen Xi topping the Ascension Board, symbolizing the height of human momentum, why would the Empress choose this moment to <em>self-mutte</em>? To abolish the lineage of Sword Cultivators? To remove the Sword Dao Monument? Had they all gone mad?

    The Sword Dao Monument, even if no longer revered, stood as a monument to the heroes of ages past. To uproot it would be to deny millennia of history! Clearly, no Sword Cultivator would believe this.

    An aged, hunched figure rose among the crowd, his eyes cloudy yet streaked with blood.

    "You Fengya! How dare you falsify an imperial edict!" The old man''s voice trembled with rage.

    "Could it be... Falsifying an imperial decree is a crime punishable by the execution of the entire family!" The crowd exchanged nces, filled with terror. Whether it was the annihtion of Sword Cultivators, the uprooting of the Sword Dao Monument, or the fabrication of an imperial decree, all seemed unbelievable. Was it that the Divine Dawn Empress had gone mad or You Fengya himself?

    Behind You Fengya stood tens of thousands of Grand Temple students!

    "How audacious! A meremoner dares to nder the Prime Minister?"

    "Disrespecting an imperial decree is a crime implicating the nine familial ns!"

    Young people invish attire, brimming with righteousness, pointed at the old man and rebuked him.

    "The decree has been issued! Whoever defies it shall be punished more severely!" You Fengya''s voice was cold. He pointed at the Sword Dao Monument and dered, "Schrs of the Heavenly Realm, heed mymand! The Grand Temple, representing the true spirit and moral backbone of the Immortal Empire and the human race, has always been a beacon of our spiritual heritage. You young schrs are the future pirs of the Immortal Empire and our race''s backbone! Our Highnessmands you to use your fervent and righteous hearts to topple the nefarious Sword Dao Monument, to bravely step over the dregs of history, and to lead the people of the human race into a new era of light!"

    "Yes!" At these words, the Grand Temple students were invigorated as if infused with new life. Led by dozens of young daoists, their eyes bloodshot and magic power surging, tens of thousands marched with passionate hearts towards the Sword Dao Monument!

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    "Stop right there!" A force of a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators emerged from the Sword Tombs, led by the elderly man and three female Tomb Masters, blocking the path of the tens of thousands of Grand Temple students.

    They were furious, their eyes burning with rage as they stared down the noble youths before them, anger churning in their chests. The Sword Dao Monument, a symbol of evil? How dare they utter such words?

    "How can you distort the truth like this? A billion martyrs built a defensive line for the Heavenly Realm with their flesh and blood. How dare you tarnish and defile their memory!" Su Lianlian''s eyes were red with anger.

    "What martyrs? Our Highness has decreed they are sinners of the ages! This Sword Dao Monument has never been a monument but a testament to their crimes, a warning to future generations!" Mu Qingquan, a young daoist from the Grand Temple and the brother of Mu Tianshi, retorted loudly.

    "Yes!"

    "They incited wars and deserved death!"

    "If they were innocent, why would their vengeful spirits linger on this stone, wailing day and night, unable to enter reincarnation? They seek redemption from us, theter generations!"

    "We of the Grand Temple have civilized the barbarians, leading them to goodness. The Grand Temple Sage and daoists are the true heroes and martyrs, the ones who have poured their hearts and souls into the Immortal Empire!"

    The Grand Temple students spoke with conviction, steadily closing in on the space upied by the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators.

    "Well said!" From the midst of the Grand Temple students, a graceful woman stepped forward. It was none other than the Ape Saint''s sister, Li Shishi.

    "My Demon Continent brethren, simple and unpretentious, have fought against nature for a mere inch ofnd to stand upon. If not for the Sword Cultivators'' relentless persecution, why would there be endless wars? Even in the midst of suffering, the Demon Continent still sends us to learn and adopt civilized ways. Yet you Sword Cultivators remain unrepentant, cruel, and brutal. No wonder the true ruler of Divine Dawn and all the people of the Heavenly Realm and Divine Continent despise you!" Li Shishi raised her arm in a rallying cry, echoed by hundreds of Demon Continent exchange students amidst the Grand Temple students.

    "Tear down the monument, herald the golden age!"

    "Down! Down! Down!"

    Led by Mu Qingquan, Li Shishi, and other daoists, tens of thousands of Grand Temple students surged forward with overwhelming momentum.

    With a thunderous roar, they confronted the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, eyes zing with defiance.

    "Defy the imperial decree, and your entire family will be executed!"

    "We are the future of the Immortal Empire,mitted to the people, devoted to heaven and earth, forging a path of peace for all time. Who dares to stand in our way?"

    Young faces, pushing against the Sword Cultivators, forced their way forward with determined hands!

    The Sword Cultivators, their eyes bloodshot, were consumed by fury. They had endured too long, always retreating, always choosing prudence over action. But now, their palms trembled, their Sword Souls crying out in anguish.

    "Sword Saint Sun!" Mu Qingquan, merely in his twenties, a young man himself, stood before the stooped old Sword Saint Sun. Looking down at him with a scornfulugh, he said, "If you and your hundred thousand Sword Cultivators kneel and admit your guilt, you might yet live. But if you resist, think of the dreadful fate that awaits your family of twelve! Their suffering will be but a fraction of what awaits these Sword Cultivators!"

    "You falsify an imperial decree and threaten to destroy a sacred monument,mitting treason and betraying humanity!" The old man''s face twisted in rage, his eyes filled with blood, his frail body shaking with fury.

    "So what? As long as the Heavenly Realm continues its revelry, why should we care about hardships? Old man, it''s Divine Dawn who''s sinning, making the same mistake as this Sword Dao Monument. She''s the one who''s driven us to this! Who else is to me? There''s no perfect solution in this world. If we must choose between Divine Dawn and the Demon Continent, are we fools to not choose thetter? Do you really believe we wouldn''t be obliterated if Divine Dawn ascends? Believe me or not?" Mu Qingquan whispered venomously in the old man''s ear. As he spoke, his righteous aura dissipated, his eyes filled with demonic energy and malevolence.

    With a sudden thud, Mu Qingquan sneered, "I hear you''ve be quite the patient one now?" He shoved Sword Saint Sun, pushing the stooped old man into the muddy ground. Righteously, he proimed, "Sword Saint Sun! You massacred our Demon Continent brethren; you too are a historical criminal! A brute by nature! Today, we act as heaven''s agents, riling you up, aren¡¯t we? No matter, kill me! I, Mu Qingquan, am willing to die, but behind me stand thousands upon thousands of righteous human warriors!"

    Mu Qingquan leaped forward, grabbing the old man''s cor, shaking him vigorously. "Kill me, Sword Saint Sun! Swing your sinful Sword Soul, strike me down!"

    The Grand Temple students, witnessing this, their eyes red with fury, crowded the Sword Cultivators, pushing them to the ground, shouting, "Go on! ughter us! Kill all the Grand Temple students! Then you can deceive the public, dragging the Divine and Demon Continents into an abyss of endless cmity, just to increase your Sword Aura and Sword Rings! So you Sword Cultivators can profit from war!"

    "Kill me! If you don¡¯t, we will stand for the people, overturn this evil monument!"

    The tens of thousands of young people roared and screamed.

    "Sword Saint Sun!" The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, tears of blood streaming from their eyes, watched as the Grand Temple students approached the Sword Dao Monument. Their faces twisted in agony, Sword Souls materializing at their fingertips, piercing their own flesh.

    All Sword Cultivators looked at the old man, pushed into the mud by Mu Qingquan. He was too old. He had lost everything. All he wanted was to preserve these hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, to keep the lineage alive. But there were always those bent on annihtion¡­

    At that moment, his tears fell onto the dark yellow soil, his hands clutching a handful of earth from his homnd. He knew, once they fell, thisnd would no longer belong to them.

    "Stand up!" Mu Qingquan lifted the old man,ughing, "Afraid to strike, eh? Sensible! After this is over, Our Highness will grant you mercy, sending you to the Demon Continent as an ambassador for humanity! Hah¡ª!" But as heughed, his head suddenly fell to the ground, and theughter ceased abruptly.

    Time seemed to freeze. Countless eyes turned to witness Mu Qingquan''s head fall to the ground. They saw the stooped old man straighten his back, holding a tri-colored Sword Soul¡ªred, green, and blue¡ªin his hand, from which blood dripped profusely.

    Closing his eyes, the old man''s dry lips trembled as he uttered a single word, resounding with an ancient and sorrowful tone that echoed across the battlefield and pierced everyone''s ears.

    "Kill!" He had forgotten how long it had been since hest wielded his Sword Soul in public. Maybe it was that day. That day when, in a rage, he had stormed the Demon Continent, ying several Demon Saints and returning triumphantly with their heads. However, what awaited him was the Azure Sky Emperor of that era capturing his entire family of twelve, handing them over to the demons of the Demon Continent. From the elderly to a newborn infant, they were tortured to death.

    All that was left for him were twelve strands of hair¡­ He never got to see them onest time. From that day, he had been dead inside. He was afraid. Afraid that there would be no living soul left in the Sword Tombs. Afraid that the Sword Dao Monument would no longer be tended to, no longer revered by future generations.

    <!--

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    He lived a different life, subservient andpliant, even to themon man. Anyone could mock or insult him, and he would always respond with a smile, advising the young not to be rash. But did discarding one''s sword and living a life of obscurity ensure that others would leave you be?

    The moment he drew his sword and beheaded Mu Qingquan, the old man''s suppressed fury erupted like a volcano. The long-silent Sword Soul came to life, emitting a piercing shriek that trembled throughout the field!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 193: You Will Never Perish!

    Chapter 193: You Will Never Perish!

    With a single word, "Kill!" a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators'' eyes instantly turned crimson!

    <em>HUM! </em>In an instant, a hundred thousand Sword Souls charged forth! Once the swords were stained with the first drop of blood, there was no turning back. One after another, the Sword Cultivators, fueled by rage, faced the deceitful and treacherous students of the Grand Temple, swords in hand, charging into closebat!

    <em>THUD THUD THUD! </em>Heads started rolling. In close quarters, the Sword Cultivators had the upper hand! In just a moment, a myriad of swords shed out, Flying Swords shot through the air, and blood flowed freely!

    "Murder!"

    "These Sword Cultivators havemitted treason!"

    Tens of thousands of Grand Temple students, upon witnessing this, sneered in their hearts¡ªif they were still alive! They cried out in despair, turning to flee! Whether the Sword Cultivators resisted or not, it was all part of their n! Although many were beheaded in a short time, it was... eptable!

    From start to finish, Prime Minister You Fengya watched this scene with cold detachment. As soon as the Sword Cultivators made a move, he coldly dered, "A hundred thousand Sword Cultivators defying the imperial edict, ughtering the future pirs of the Immortal Empire, killing the innocent, their crimes are unforgivable!"

    Afterwards, You Fengya turned towards the darkness and dered, "Ancestral Temple Guards, suppress and annihte them!"

    That darkness happened to be the direction the Grand Temple students were fleeing. These young schrs had no real intention of fighting. Forced into action by the Sword Cultivators, they fled in panic! In the next instant, a formidable force of five hundred thousand heavily armored Ancestral Temple Guards appeared before their eyes!

    This was the private army of the Ancestral Temple,posed of young members from the noble ns of the Heavenly Realm, generally over twenty years old, with richbat experience, trained year-round, and organized in a systematic approach to warfare.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards found their banner and made their official appearance! Only at this moment, did an oppressive and tyrannical aura envelop the entire scene!

    "Execute the traitors. Topple the Sword Dao Monument!" Prime Minister You Fengya ordered on <em>behalf</em> of the Empire.

    "Execute!" Five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards, with stern gazes fixed on the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, roared in unison and charged to suppress them!

    The well-prepared scene left the onlookers dumbfounded.

    "What''s going on? Who''smitting treason?"

    Many were utterly confused. The Grand Temple students and the Ancestral Temple Guards, clearly factions of the Azure Leaf faction, were using the Divine Dawn Empress''s banner?

    "They use Her Majesty''s name to overthrow the Sword Dao Monument, thinking we''ll turn against the Empress? Do they take us for fools?"

    "Prime Minister You is courting death!"

    "No, this can''t be his personal act¡­"

    By this moment, the people had a rough idea.

    "Disaster! The Sword Cultivators are on the brink of extinction!"

    Just as they were about to act, more people arrived! Dozens of n Kings from the Ancestral Temple emerged from the Eternal Joy Inn!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Led by Ye Qingtian, the group arrived with a stern gaze.

    "What''s happening, Prime Minister You?" Ye Qingtian asked coldly.

    Prime Minister You Fengya exined the situation.

    "Defying the imperial edict, creating chaos against the sovereign, ughtering our kin, they deserve death!" Ye Qingtian dered coldly, his fiery eyes turning towards Sword Saint Sun. "Ancestral Temple Guards, follow mymand, purge the evil for our Empire!"

    "Yes!"

    "We of the Grand Temple, pledge to purge the evil!"

    "We of the Six Immortal Divisions, pledge to purge the evil!"

    "The Dao Pavilion joins in!"

    Mu Tianshi and others, representing the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire, pronounced judgment upon the Sword Cultivators! The situation was clear¡ªeither the Azure Leaf faction was openly rebelling, or the Divine Dawn Empress had actually issued an imperial decree against the Sword Cultivators!

    "Execute!" A host of Azure Leaf faction powerhouses descended from the sky!

    Ye Qingtian stood with his hands behind his back, a cold smile on his face as he watched Sword Saint Sun.

    Mu Tianshi, You Fengya, and Ye Qingli, radiating with sacred power, pressed down upon Nangong Xi, Youyue, and Su Lianlian.

    Over five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards and Grand Temple students tightly encircled the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators!

    Among them, tens of thousands of Grand Temple students, with the backing of the Ancestral Temple Guards, directly circled behind the Sword Dao Monument.

    "A monument of sin, unworthy of this world!" Li Shishi gazed at the billion deste, mottled sword marks and revealed a triumphant smile. "Topple it!"

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Tens of thousands of Grand Temple students, conjuring their magic power, unleashed tens of thousands of spells, bombarding the Sword Dao Monument!

    The Sword Dao Monument shuddered mightily, the ground cracking into a web of fissures.

    Upon the monument, ancient sword marks, enduring through the ages, impervious to wind and rain, now burst into dust under the relentless assault of countless spells.

    "Ooooh¡­! Ooooh¡­!" On the monument, ageless spirits, startled, let out piercing, bewildered wails. They collided in panic, staring nkly at those fervent young people of the Immortal Empire, their sorrow profound. Real tears of blood trickled down the stone, vanishing before they could touch the ground, erased by the spells ofter generations.

    "Hate! Resent! The most powerful demons in the world are always born from resentment! Including the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor, including you! You have a billion grievances, a timeless discontent, wronged by humankind! Betrayed by your own descendants! This sorrowful world is not worth your concern, not worth your protection!

    "Time has already changed you. You''ve watched over the Heavenly Realm for thousands of generations, yet your progeny have not granted you an ounce of justice. They''ve even branded you a curse! Sad, isn''t it? Pain? Anger! Hate? Only by bing a demon, only with overwhelming resentment, can you make those who wronged you pay the heaviest price!" Li Shishi stood beneath the trembling Sword Dao Monument, her fingers brushing it,ughing eerily.

    "Unending resentment turns into a demon! Why endure millennia for justice? This world will no longer grant you anything. Forget it, despair! Suffer! You can only hate them!"

    On the Sword Dao Monument, a billion sword marks quivered, tears of agony fell, and wails echoed through the heavens. It was the copse of years of steadfastness, the shattering of a persistent dream!

    "Be a demon, be a demon! You will be the most powerful demon in the world! You will be Immortal! You will make all who abandoned their faith pay..." Li Shishi''s chillingughter, mingled with the frenzied roars of the Grand Temple students, repeatedly struck the swaying Sword Dao Monument.

    The towering stone monument, like a living being, each attack it endured exploded a bloody pit, spilling streams of human blood.

    "Oooooh¡­! Ooooooooh¡­!" The entire Sword Dao Monument gradually became stained with blood. The remaining billion tormented souls and obsessions screamed in such excruciating pain that it made one''s scalp tingle, a despair that tore at the heart...

    "The Monument!!!" Sword Saint Sun, the three Tomb Masters, and a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, upon hearing this, felt their hearts bleed. They charged like a frenzied sword, desperate to break through the suppression of the five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards!

    Where their Sword Souls passed, countless corpses fell! A single explosive burst from a hundred thousand Sword Souls instantly decapitated tens of thousands of Ancestral Temple Guards!

    Such ferocious Sword Cultivators, at this moment, shook the hearts of all, even startling those Ancestral Temple Guards who thought they had the upper hand! But, their numbers were still too few!

    "Hold them back!" A thunderous roar shook the heavens and the earth, as dozens of tempest dragons, conjured by magic, crashed in front of Sword Saint Sun and the others, sting the frontline Sword Cultivators away!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Ye Qingtian, in his flowing robes,nded in front of Sword Saint Sun, sneering, "Old fool, still not willing to join your family in the afterlife, are you even human?"

    "Ye Qingtian!" Sword Saint Sun''s hair wild, eyes bloodshot, grasping his tri-colored Sword Soul, charged at him like a madman, "You only seek glory and riches for your Ye Royal Family, abandoning faith, forsaking souls! You will reap your evil deeds!"

    "Hahaha..." Ye Qingtianughed derisively, conjuring a dragon-shaped golden mace in his hand, charging towards Sword Saint Sun, "Brute courage, easily ignited, no wonder your entire family perished!"

    As soon as the words fell, the tri-colored sword brushed past the dragon-shaped golden mace in his hand, sparking a myriad of fireflies and leaving a bloody mark on his neck, nearly piercing his throat!

    "Why is this old ghost still so strong?" Ye Qingtian broke into a cold sweat, his anger rising. He then mustered his sacred power, shing his dragon-shaped golden mace against Sword Saint Sun''s sword.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Nangong Xi, Youyue, and Su Lianlian, battling alone against Mu Tianshi, You Fengya, and Ye Qingli, surprisingly held their own!

    The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, eyes red with rage, driven by their inner convictions, utterly disregarded life and death!

    "Kill!" Their repressed ferocity and fury erupted in that moment! Only then did the beings of the Heavenly Realm recall the ferocity and fierceness of the Sword Cultivators!

    A hundred thousand of them pushed back five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards! An old man and three women, alone against the powerhouses of the Heavenly Realm''s noble ns, standing against the entire Ancestral Temple! Where their swords passed, blood flowed!

    Ye Qingtian''s brows furrowed deeply! He had grossly underestimated the desperate resolve of these doomed fighters!

    "No time left!" Ye Qingtian retreated dozens of yards, parrying Sword Saint Sun''s sword, turning to shout angrily, "Li Shishi!"

    After shouting, he tossed a ck orb over. It was the Hell Wraith!

    Li Shishi caught the Hell Wraith, herughter growing even more joyous. "Your Majesty, leave it to your humble servant!" With that, she turned back to look at the Sword Dao Monument.

    <em>DRIP DRIP DRIP! </em>Dark red blood of resentment flowed down the monument.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Under the assault of tens of thousands of Grand Temple students, this monument of a billion heroic souls that had stood for ages at the gates of the Heavenly Realm, watching over countless generations, finally copsed under the twilight''s crushing weight!

    A billion faces, unwilling to enter the cycle of reincarnation, at this moment, shatteredpletely into blood. Each face bore the dissatisfaction of a thousand ages!

    Amidst the rising dust, Li Shishi patted the Hell Wraith, saying, "Good, from now on, you will guide these billion resentments. You will be the strongest demon. When you wreak havoc in the Heavenly Realm, remember to ce all the sins upon Divine Dawn''s head."

    "Oooh! OOOH!" Though the Hell Wraith made such sounds, its excitement was unmistakable.

    <em>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </em>Itpletely merged with the Sword Dao Monument, bing one with it!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Sword Dao Monument copsed entirely. At that moment, the world fell silent. All the fighting, bloodshed, and corpses seemed frozen in time. Only the hearts of the Sword Cultivators continued to shatter.

    "Oh, ooh¡­! OOOOH¡­!" From the fallen Sword Dao Monument, a blood-soaked demon emitted a piercing cry, slowly crawling out...

 Chapter 194: Heaven-Piercing Sword Intent, Slay All Filth and Evil! (1)

    Chapter 194: Heaven-Piercing Sword Intent, y All Filth and Evil! (1)

    "Divine Dawn! Divine Dawn!" Blood-red faces, twisted in rage and contorted in screams, climbed out of the Sword Dao Monument. Their shrill cries sent shivers through the gathered crowd.

    Blood fountains erupted, and a thick fog of blood enveloped the air. Suddenly, the billion grisly faces coalesced into a colossal sword, a thousand feet long and drenched in blood. This sword pulsated with a murderous aura, its killing intent surging like a tempest.

    Each face on the de continued its piercing screech, "Divine Dawn, give us justice!"

    These billion bloodied faces chanted the same six words, shaking the massive sword and shedding a dense blood mist that stained the bodies of the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators and five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards red.

    Here, at the edge of the Heavenly Realm, far from the Divine Dawn Pce, the countless eyes on the gargantuan bloody sword locked onto the direction of the pce, unleashing all their murderous intent. They sought to y the Divine Dawn Empress!

    This terrifying release of demon intent, like countless blood swords, pierced into everyone''s hearts.

    "Mission aplished!" Ye Qingtian''s eyes zed with a fierce joy. "To all the Ancestral Temple Guards and Grand Temple students, you are the heroes of this era! Imand you... retreat!"

    From You Fengya proiming the imperial decree to toppling the Sword Dao Monument, only a short time had passed. The sh with the Sword Cultivators was intense, yet it didn''t dy them. Everything was under Ye Qingtian''s control.

    At hismand, whether they were students or guards, all retreated swiftly, smiles on their faces.

    "A billion grievances, a supreme sword demon! Release your injustices and let the tens of millions in the Heavenly Realm be stained with your sword blood!" You Fengya gazed at the bloody sword, hisugh cold and distant. "You can y millions. Remember, attribute all sins to Divine Dawn!"

    They all could feel how horrifying the rampage of this bloody sword demon was under the lead of the Hell Wraith. After achieving their goal, they retreated withughter.

    When the Sword Dao Monument fell, so did the faith in the hearts of the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators. They stood, stunned, in the bloody shadow, gazing at the sword demon in the sky, its blood mist swirling wildly, their eyes red and vacant.

    "Our ancestors have be demons..."

    Was the resentment of a billion unfulfilled spirits too overwhelming?

    "Divine Dawn must die! Divine Dawn must die!" The giant bloody sword continued to draw the final vengeful spirits from the Sword Dao Monument. This fierce intent was bound to soon erupt in ughter.

    "Sword Saint Sun!" Nangong Xi''s eyes were bloodshot as she cried out in sorrow, "This was clearly a false imperial decree. How are they directing the resentment of our ancestors towards Her Majesty?"

    "These are only resentful remnants, not true souls, filled with nothing but hatred..." Sword Saint Sun trembled. "But to focus their hatred to such an extent, something unknown must be at y!"

    "What do we do?" Youyue asked coldly.

    "Stop it! Wait for Her Majesty!"

    With those words, Sword Saint Sun in his gray robes soared into the sky. Nangong Xi and the other strong Sword Cultivators gathered around him, using their bodies to block the path of the bloody sword demon.

    "We must not let it harm the people..."

    In this chaos, the popce was easily misled. Regardless of the truth, the sword demon, screaming Divine Dawn''s name and ughtering the innocent, would cause irreparable damage. The truth of the false imperial decree would be irrelevant. If the Divine Dawn Empress were ndered, the Azure Leaf faction would surely manipte public opinion to support Ye Qingtian''s ascent to power, reinstating the Azure Leaf Immortal Empire!

    The Azure Leaf faction''s influence was too vast!

    On many levels, they held the power to sow discourse.

    "Just half an hour ago, over ten million demons surrounded the Spirit Treasure Pce and the major casinos in the Heavenly Realm, causing chaos. They used the Immortal Empire of hiding Yun Xiao''s true strength and rigging the bets, demanding their money back. It was a massive disturbance, forcing the Nine Heavens Immortal Army to intervene. Her Majesty is likely dealing with that situation..." Su Lianlian spoke gravely.

    "This is a diversionary tactic! These people are truly connected by blood to the demons!"

    The Eternal Joy Demon Emperor was in, and the Demon Continent''s participation in the War of Immortals surely hid unpredictable tricks.

    "The grievances of our ancestors are being exploited. If mishandled, there will be millions of corpses! Hold the line!" As Sword Saint Sun spoke, the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators gripped their Sword Souls, hands trembling, eyes filled withplex emotions. They gazed at the twisted faces of their ancestors on the sword demon, hearts heavy with sorrow.

    <em>BOOM! </em>At that moment, the bloody sword demon fully materialized, its cries more mournful, its murderous intent more overwhelming. Behind the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, the previously observing crowd had already fled in terror, stumbling and dragging their families along.

    "Has Divine Dawn truly angered the ancestors of the Sword Cultivators?"

    They didn''t want to believe it. But why were these billion angry spirits targeting her? Many had seen with their own eyes that it was the Grand Temple students who had toppled the Sword Dao Monument. But for those who hadn''t witnessed it, whose words should they trust?

    If this continued, almost all the cultivators in the Heavenly Realm would only see the sword demon ughtering millions of innocent lives. By then, that would be the only evidence they saw with their own eyes!

    "Get out of the way!" the bloody sword demon roared. The eyes of a billion resentful spirits cast their gaze on the group of Sword Cultivators, filling the sky with blood.

    "Ancestors, please calm your anger! The one who desecrated the monument was Ye Qingtian, not Divine Dawn!" Sword Saint Sun shouted.

    Within the core of the bloody sword demon, a surge of ck mist roiled, and the voice of the Hell Wraith echoed like a chilling ghost. "Those who protect Divine Dawn, die too!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The bloody sword demon''s greatsword trembled, stirring up a sky full of blood mist, hurtling towards the Sword Cultivators!

    "Our ancestors!" A hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, their hearts filled with fear and sorrow, still raised their Sword Souls, attempting to block the bloody sword demon.

    "Have our ancestors be so resentful that even their own descendants are now their targets...?" Their hearts were filled with bleakness.

    Yet, behind themy the innocent civilians of the Heavenly Realm; they had no choice but to stand their ground, duty-bound.

    "Ancestors above, we, your descendants, have nothing but our humble lives. We only hope that our meager blood might awaken the righteous path in you!"

    "Sword Cultivators must wield their swords against treachery and evil, not be manipted to kill the innocent andmit eternal mistakes!" Sword Saint Sun, his gray robes billowing, eyes bloodshot, charged towards the blood-colored sword demon.

    "Our ancestors!" The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators soared, following the old man like moths to a me, for just a possibility. They believed in the sword! The sword was their connection to each other. It was also the resonance of hearts between ancestors and descendants!

    Sword Saint Sun had paid tribute to the Sword Dao Monument since his youth, now ny-three years, day and night, never straying. They were all believers in the Sword Dao!

    Their bodies, in front of this thousand-foot sword demon, were like mere specks, easily extinguished with a breath. Yet, their eyes zed with fervor! These fervent gazes and pure Sword Souls charged at the vicious sword demon!

    "Annihte these flies!" The Hell Wraith growled from within the bloody sword demon.

    The bloody sword demon''s greatsword hummed, locked on its target! But in that moment, the billion faces on it twisted. They saw the Sword Souls, saw their descendants, saw themselves as they once were!

    "No! No! No!" The bloody sword demon trembled, abruptly changing the direction of its de. In an instant, it brushed past the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, not harming a single descendant!

    "Our ancestors still have a conscience!" Sword Saint Sun paused, tears brimming in his eyes.

    "What''s happening? Where''s the Hell Wraith?" Ye Qingtian coldly turned to Li Shishi at his side.

    They were still watching from afar, amused.

    "Your Majesty, rest assured, those billion resentments still hold some obsessions. The bloody sword demon won''t harm its descendants, it just needs to ughter the innocents in the Heavenly Realm and severely damage Divine Dawn''s reputation!" Li Shishi exined.

    "Whether it''s a physical or reputational blow, either will be fatal to her!" You Fengyaughed coldly.

    From that moment, the group no longer hid their intentions. It was all out in the open! Nothing mattered anymore. So long as the bloody sword demon went on a ughter and harmed Divine Dawn, they could coborate with the demons to seize power!

    As the words fell, Mu Tianshi suddenly frowned. "Divine Dawn is here!"

    "So quick! She abandoned the Spirit Treasure Pce?" Ye Qingtian sneered.

    "No matter, she can''t do anything to this bloody sword demon. Instead, it will provoke its ferocity! As long as its resentment lives, it''s immortal!" Li Shishi said.

    "Hell Wraiths are indeed a treasure! Divine Dawn doesn''t belong to the Endless Netherworld. She has no idea such deadly things exist in this world!" Ye Qingli ridiculed.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As they observed the situation, a golden-red figure had already shed with the bloody sword demon!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 195: Heaven-Piercing Sword Intent, Slay All Filth and Evil! (2)

    Chapter 195: Heaven-Piercing Sword Intent, y All Filth and Evil! (2)

    "The Empress has arrived!" The tense cultivators of the Heavenly Realm breathed a sigh of relief. Above them, thunderous blood-colored lightning rumbled, obscuring the sky, forming a dense web of electricity, blocking the sword demon!

    Seeing this figure, the sword demon wentpletely mad!

    "Divine Dawn, give us justice!" A billion faces twisted again! From the sword''s body, blood-soaked arms stretched out, grasping at Divine Dawn, iling as if drowning!

    Divine Dawn''s face, wrapped in dense thunder, was unreadable.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In the next instant, the sword demon, like a supercharged Sword Soul, spun wildly, forming a blood storm thousands of feet wide. Blood mist converged into rain, pouring onto the streets and buildings, corroding blood pits!

    "DIVINE DAWN!" The sword demon screeched, lunging at Divine Dawn in the sky!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Bell appeared, shielding Divine Dawn!

    A deafening st rang out as the sword demon''s greatsword struck the Primordial Bell. A dazzling sh of light illuminated the sky as the bell shook violently, causing a piercing ring to echo throughout the Heavenly Realm.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The colossal bell crushed down upon Divine Dawn. One woman and one bell plummeted to the earth, ttening five entire streets of buildings to dust as the ground trembled and cracked open!

    Fortunately, the people of the Heavenly Realm had evacuated in time!

    This scene alone revealed the devastating power of the sword demon¡ªa resentment turned demon, at its strongest! Even Ye Qingtian and his entourage were shocked by the sight before bursting intoughter. The sword demon''s destructive power exceeded even their expectations!

    However, tension gripped the masses.

    "The Empress is being suppressed!"

    "This is bad¡­"

    The sword demon, shrouded in a blood mist, continued its shrieking assault, descending from the sky, its sword aimed at Divine Dawn!

    "Die..! Die! Depriving us of justice, ruining our foundation, killing our people, you deserve death!"

    Torrential blood rain swept across the Heavenly Realm, and the sword demon¡¯s curses against Divine Dawn echoed far and wide.

    "What exactly did the Empress do?"

    "I have a brother working in the Ministry of Rites who said she insisted on issuing an imperial decree, forcing the Prime Minister to topple the Sword Dao Monument!"

    "Why would she do that?"

    "No idea! All I know is that a billion Sword Cultivator ancestors were forced into bing demons. Once heroes of the human race, now demons, s! With the ancestors so full of hatred, she must have done something wrong! Otherwise, how could the spirits of a billion protectors be mistaken?"

    "Tragic! So tragic!"

    Public opinion was another battlefield! And in this battlefield, the Azure Leaf faction''s ughter of the people''s hearts was overwhelming and even more terrifying! Even those filled with doubts were rendered speechless in the face of inmed public anger.

    Undoubtedly, this was the most challenging moment for Divine Dawn since ascending to the throne. Only an hour away from the War of Immortals, and yet, an insurmountable chasmy before them.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The woman in the dragon robes pushed the Primordial Bell aside. She raised two colossal arms of lightning and fiercely grasped the bloody sword demon. With the body of a single woman, she stood in front of the prosperous Heavenly Realm!

    Sizzling fiercely, the sword demon vibrated wildly. Its body shed with the thunderous giant arms, sparking countless bolts of lightning and fire. A billion grotesque faces on the sword demon red at her, hurling endless curses and insults, pouring all their rage onto this lone woman.

    Yet she, Divine Dawn, stood silent, bearing it all.

    "Kill her!"

    "With her death, peace will reign!"

    Ye Qingtian, You Fengya, Li Shishi, and others watched with eager anticipation, hoping for a surprise victory tonight.

    Using the ancestors of others to y their descendants, it was delightful and thrilling!

    <em>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </em>The blood-red greatsword relentlessly breached the thunderous giant arms, inching closer to Divine Dawn''s flesh and blood.

    "The scourge of the Empire, the Divine Dawn Empress must die!" The students of the Grand Temple chanted andughed wildly.

    "Humans and demons may coexist, but Divine Dawn must die!" The chants of five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards echoed a familiar slogan from the past.

    In this world-shattering moment, a figure in white suddenly appeared before Divine Dawn!

    <em>KLANG! </em>His gaze calm, he extended an azure Sword Soul, intercepting the greatsword of the billion-faced sword demon¡­ This white figure emerged where he shouldn''t have been. Behind him, the dragon-robed girl, wrapped in blood-red thunder, trembled in her eyes.

    "Yun Xiao?!" Sword Saint Sun, Su Lianlian, and others were stunned.

    Ye Qingtian, Li Shishi, and the rest stiffened their faces, but soonughed. "Two for the price of one?"

    Perfect! They all had to die!

    "There''s something controlling it from the inside," Yun Xiao spoke softly to the woman behind him, not turning around.

    "What is it¡­" She was still in the dark.

    "Leave it to me!" After those three words, a fierce fire surged in Yun Xiao''s eyes, confronting the sword demon, its murderous intent overwhelming. No one believed he could solve this greatest dilemma in history.

    "Move aside! Move aside!" The faces on the blood-colored greatsword, seething with rage, red at Yun Xiao. The thousand-foot greatsword trembled in the presence of a three-foot azure de!

    "Ancestors!" Yun Xiao, looking at the struggling faces, suddenly released his Sword Soul and braced his chest against the massive, sharp tip of the sword!

    <em>POOF! </em>The sword demon burst into countless clouds of blood mist, yet its de began to retreat!

    "Move aside!!" The billion ancestors struggled. They spared those hundred thousand Sword Cultivators and would not harm Yun Xiao either.

    After all, he was the first sessor of the Constetion ying Sword since ancient times. That night when he studied the Sword Dao Monument, he''d already formed a deep bond with them. This bond transcended centuries of worship. Even as remnants and wronged spirits, they saw hope in Yun Xiao, considering him their future.

    "Kill him!" a mournful voice roared from the depths of the sword demon.

    However, when Yun Xiao extended his arms to embrace the sword''s tip, tears fell from those billion faces.

    "Look!" Yun Xiao''s eyes reddened as he held the massive sword demon in one arm and wielded Heaven Burial in the other.

    "Meteor, Comet, Moon..." His Sword Soul shifted through various sword stances.

    "Ancestors, there is a future, a legacy, with me!" Each strike from Yun Xiao''s sword bloomed like dazzling flowers in the night sky, shifting in radiant colors.

    <em>HUM! </em>He sheathed his Sword Soul and ced his palms on the faces, touching them, his voice deep and resonant.

    "Through thousands of generations, your will was not ground to dust, so why fear the encroachment of evil thoughts? Enduring the test of time, weathered by sun and rain, eternally unyielding, why dread the chaos sown by demons! The Sword Dao Monument is but a symbol to stand by; the rise and eternal prosperity of the Sword Dao is our true unending aspiration!" Yun Xiao''s eyes zed with a fiery passion!

    Above the heavens, Yun Xiao knelt before the sword demon, his voice rich and resonant, carrying the fury of ages, "I beseech the ancestors of the Sword Dao to see through the haze, to discern the vile demons, to protect the descendants of the Dao! I implore the ancestors to defy the heavens, to give us Sword Cultivators a chance! Guide us with your heavenly sword intent, to vanquish all filth and traitors!!"

    "Ooooh¡­!" The bloody sword demon trembled violently, the billion faces gradually finding release from their raging torment. Tears fell, and their deep, deste gazes rested upon this young man.

    Indeed! The billion spirits remembered. They had endured, waiting for this day, the day when their obsession for the revival of the Sword Cultivators would find its embodiment!

    This young man before them was the fulfillment of their dreams!

    "Kill him! Quickly!" Within the sword demon, the ck mist roiled and shrieked in desperation. However, no matter how it provoked, the sword demon remained as calm as still water.

    Even when Divine Dawn released her thunderous giant arms, it remained motionless.

    "Ancestors, pave the way!" Yun Xiao gripped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, his eyes bursting with divine radiance.

    <em>CRACK CRACK CRACK! </em>The ferocious sword demon suddenly split in two!

    Yun Xiao''s eyes turned cold as he spotted a swirl of ck mist at the core of the sword demon.

    <em>BAM! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul soared and instantly pierced the Hell Wraith.

    "Ugh..." The Hell Wraith struggled briefly before fading into nothingness.

    <em>HUM! </em>The bloody sword demonpletely dissipated, transforming into a blood-red vortex resembling celestial clouds, swirling around Yun Xiao. The faces softened and the murderous aura dissipated.

    In a short span, a cmitous disaster was averted, a sinister plot nipped in the bud!

    The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, their eyes aze, raised their arms in a victorious cheer.

    Sword Saint Sun, Nangong Xi, and others knelt on the ground, tears streaming down their faces.

    Far away, the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm, who had fled, turned back in shock, their worlds turned upside down.

    Even without knowing the full truth, they sensed safety.

    Was it Yun Xiao who single-handedly turned the tide? That was hard to say. Truthfully, it was the undying love of the billion ancestors for their descendants, even as vengeful spirits, that was the key...

    Only a group stood with faces twisted in disbelief.

    "How is this possible? How could he awaken those remnants? The Hell Wraith was in control!!" Li Shishi''s face contorted, revealing her true monkey-like visage.

    Ye Qingtian, You Fengya, Mutianshi, and others turned ashen.

    "Trouble now!" Dozens of Heavenly Realm noble families exchanged nces, each face uglier than thest.

 Chapter 196: Please Ancestors, Enter the Cycle of Reincarnation

    Chapter 196: Please Ancestors, Enter the Cycle of Reincarnation

    The sword demon had caused such amotion, yet not a single life was lost, and Divine Dawn remained unscathed. All attempts to manipte public opinion werepletely foiled.

    As long as the Divine Dawn Empress stood firm, her reputation would only soar higher... And now, the Azure Leaf faction''s false imperial decree had turned into grave sins, a handle for their opponents!

    The Grand Temple Sage had only murmured a few words, giving Divine Dawn the leverage to execute him outright!

    "Form up, retreat!" Ye Qingtian roared, sweeping his hand and addressing Li Shishi, "Summon the three Demon Emperors! And the Violet Emperor too!"

    "Think you can escape?!"

    Just then, a thunderous voice shook the heavens!

    Everyone was startled; it wasn''t Divine Dawn who spoke, but Yun Xiao in the sky!

    As Ye Qingtian turned to flee, he abruptly looked back. His gaze shed with Yun Xiao''s, his pupils shrinking. "Forging an imperial decree, toppling the Sword Dao Monument, insulting our ancestors, you shall face heaven''s wrath and karmic retribution!"

    Retribution had arrived!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The billion souls'' blood vortex swirling around Yun Xiao hadn''t dissipated! At that moment, he raised his Sword Soul to the sky, a sword that could cleave the heavens!

    "Ancestors, lend strength to my sword, to elevate the path of the sword, to grant eternal justice to all!" Yun Xiao roared.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>As his words echoed, the blood vortex transformed into a tidal wave of swords, pouring into the azure Sword Soul. An ocean converged into a single de! The fury of the sword demon earlier was now fully integrated into Heaven Burial!

    Faces of rage materialized upon the Sword Soul! But this time, they were no longer twisted or sorrowful, only burning with clear, righteous anger.

    "Blood for blood!" It was the aristocrats of the Heavenly Realm, like Ye, Mu, Han, and You ns who had sent these billion souls to their doom. Their descendants were still persecuting Sword Cultivators, controlling public opinion, distorting truth and lies. Even nearly causing these billion martyrs tomit a regrettable act! How could this be tolerated?

    The Sword Soul could absorb the power of Sword Hearts, bridging the gap between generations. It represented the wishes of the ancestors and the will of the Sword Dao!

    At that moment, the billion departed spirits from the Sword Dao Monument, now demonically empowered, poured into Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul. Their bridge, still, was the selfless and eternal love of ancestors for their descendants. And an immortal fury!

    A sea of blood entered the sword, igniting a billion mes of rage. Yun Xiao''s azure Sword Soul transformed for the first time into a crimson hue.

    <em>HUM! </em>The crimson even seeped into him, crawling up his arm, turning his fierce eyes and flowing hair blood-red. His white robe, now stained with the heavy scent of blood!

    In that instant, Yun Xiao was no longer himself; he was the reincarnation of a billion angry spirits, returning to the living world through his Sword Soul, seeking justice for themselves and all Sword Cultivators!

    They resonated deeply with Yun Xiao in one aspect¡ªthey, too, had died with towering grievances, their souls reaching the heavens. Perhaps this was why they couldn''t vanquish Yun Xiao!

    "What''s happening?"

    "Has Yun Xiao turned into a demon?"

    The tens of thousands of students from the Grand Temple, who hadughed heartily moments ago, were now fleeing in terror, nking the Ancestral Temple Guards.

    "No worries! Even if we''ve revealed our true colors, our Azure Leaf faction is deeply rooted, and the Demon Emperors will protect us!"

    "We are the future pirs of the Immortal Empire. Without us, the Empire would copse!"

    Even at this moment, these aristocratic scions still felt superior.

    They were already dreaming of aeback on the day of the final battle.

    Just then, the blood-drenched figure in the sky, with a sword of blood and eyes zing red, set his sights on the fleeing students of the Grand Temple¡ªthese self-proimed future pirs of the Immortal Empire!

    "Cultivators without a Dao heart. If the Immortal Empire continues to be governed by the likes of you, that would truly be a futureless path!" Yun Xiao, with the cold fury of a billion spirits, spoke out!

    <em>HUM! </em>His crimson Sword Soul suddenly transformed into a three-inch Flying Sword! And with a flick, the sword shot out!

    <em>Constetion ying Sword, Meteor Shower!</em>

    <em>BOOM! </em>The three-inch Flying Sword unleashed a three-hundred-yard storm in the sky!

    As the crimson sword shed, the heavens were cleaved with a scarlet wound! The sword energy storm descended like a billion swords transformed into furious dragons, swooping down upon the tens of thousands of Grand Temple students!

    ¡°Ah?¡± One after another, aristocratic youths bearing the surnames Ye, Mu, Han, and You turned in shock, only to be engulfed by the storm in an instant!

    <em>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </em>With one sweep of the sword, blood and flesh flew wildly! Limbs and heads, eyes wide with terror, were flung into the air, their blood spraying everywhere, swallowed by the crimson storm!

    <em>HUM! </em>As the Meteor Shower passed, the tens of thousands of Grand Temple students vanished, leaving behind ayer of blood, flesh, and bone dust on the ground. Countless jewels, jade, and Spirit Stones, released from their Pouches of Holding exploded into view.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The storm swept away the souls of the tens of thousands, locking them into the Sword Soul!

    Inside the Sword Soul, young faces screamed in agony and despair, their cries echoing like ghosts and wolves! They were annihted! The Immortal Empire had no future left!

    The Azure Leaf faction, with its lineage spanning thousands of generations, was extinguished in an instant!

    ¡°AHH!¡± Ye Qingtian, You Fengya, Mu Tianshi, and the others turned to witness this bloody scene, standing frozen, their insides shattering.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In the sky above, the blood-stained youth caught the Flying Sword. The tens of thousands of intact souls on the sword were surrounded by the billion departed, their wails piercing the heavens!

    ¡°You brat!¡± Ye Qingtian stopped, unleashing a heart-wrenching roar. Even Divine Dawn couldn''t achieve such a ughter!

    ¡°Lost your cool already?¡± Yun Xiao smirked coldly, his hand transforming the crimson Sword Soul into a six-foot Sovereign Sword! Stepping onto the sword, he executed Fleeting Moon, diving down with the sword!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The blood sword tore through the void, suddenly transforming into the thousand-foot greatsword! It whipped up a storm of bloody rain, crashing down like a meteor on the heads of the five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards!

    <em>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </em>Where the greatsword swept, a bloody storm, mes, and sword light ravaged through. Bodies intact one moment were sted into blood mist the next, their souls sucked away by the Sword Soul!

    The Sovereign Sword moved unpredictably, shing in and out seven times among the five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple guards. The rage of the billion departed spirits, timeless and relentless, rolled over these guards, ughtering them over and over again!

    This was a blood-drenched hell! Within this hell, Yun Xiao was the reaper! Those Ancestral Temple Guards, even if they wanted to scatter, had no time. They could only watch as the bloody sword engulfed them, their flesh withering, crumbling to death! Like a chariot''s wheel crushing ants!

    "Toppling the Sword Dao Monument, forcing a billion ancestors into a demon form, gathering over a millennia of resentment, these beasts have brought the stone down upon their own feet!"

    "Karmic retribution! Karmic retribution!"

    Divine Dawn stood unscathed, and with Yun Xiao''s intervention, the outrage of the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators tonight was ignited into a raging fire.

    The distant cultivators of the Heavenly Realm were utterly astounded!

    "The obsession of these billion Sword Cultivators is terrifying!"

    Everyone was retrospectively horrified. Everyone knew how frightening these billion grudges were, but previously, their ancestors had stood firm, never bing the very demons they loathed the most.

    "My God!" People were rigid with shock, watching as Yun Xiao, wielding the sword of a billion ancestors, in and out seven times, annihted the five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards!

    All dead! These guards were the core lineage of the Ancestral Temple, not part of the Heavenly Realm''s aristocratic families. Most were recent graduates from the Grand Temple, peers on the same path. With their death, and that of the Grand Temple students, the Azure Leaf faction was utterly wiped out!

    ¡°Ughh¡­!¡± Ye Qingtian, You Fengya, Mu Tianshi, Ye Qingli, and other Azure Leaf faction powerhouses, witnessing this bloody scene, slowly knelt, tears of blood streaming down their faces!

    Over half a million souls, all locked into the Sword Soul, unable to enter the cycle of reincarnation! Their faces were practically torn apart with humiliation! Endless agony etched sword scars across their visages.

    "Yun Xiao, die!" Mu Tianshi roared. Only Ye Qingli remained of his family; everyone else was dead. Driven to madness, he charged towards the blood-soaked youth!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>A Meteor Shower infused with the essence of the Ten-Step Scale flew towards him!

    Yun Xiao¡¯s swordy was unparalleled in the Heavenly Realm! When such a monster had sufficient killing power, the terrifying versatility of his swordy was fully unleashed.

    <em>SPLATTER! </em>Mu Tianshi only saw a sh of blood before his head soared through the air!

    <em>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </em>The blood-red Flying Sword whirled through the Azure Leaf faction''s powerhouses in an instant!

    With each sh of blood, dozens of n heads flew into the sky!

    <em>THUD THUD THUD! </em>Mu Tianshi, You Fengya, Ye Qingli, and the others'' eyes bulged in death, their heads neatly arranged before Ye Qingtian, all staring at him! The shocked faces were almost too much for Ye Qingtian''s heart to bear.

    "NO!" he roared, but as his voice rose, a blood shadow charged towards him.

    It was Yun Xiao! His Sword Soul still harbored thest vestige of ancestral power! <em>Constetion ying Sword, Streaking Comet!</em> That sword, slicing down, executed the trajectory of a constetion three times, its movements soplex that Ye Qingtian''s muscles twitched in confusion!

    Ye Qingtian couldn''tprehend the changes! <em>PUFF! </em>In that instant, the sword''s de cleaved into his head!

    "Demon Emperors! Violet Emperor!" Ye Qingtian, as if in a dream, cried out for these allies. In the next instant, he was cleaved in two, his blood and remains scattering in all directions!

    <em>RIP! </em>A crimson Sword Aura whirled away, shooting thousands of yards, its brutal aftermath shing the flourishing Eternal Joy Inn in half!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Even the Eternal Joy Inn, symbolizing the harmony of humans and demons, was split in twain, copsing with a thunderous crash!

    With this, the core powerhouses and geniuses of the Azure Leaf faction werepletely annihted! They died at the hands of Yun Xiao! And under the wrathful spirits of a billion Sword Cultivator ancestors!

    Justice arrivedte. But it arrived nheless...

    With that final strike, the Sword Soul returned to its azure color. The youth reverted to his white robe! He seemed to awaken from a great dream, utterly drained, copsing weakly amidst the pool of blood!

    And the billion spirits, with gentle gazes, shed their crimson hue, transforming into a white mist. They smiled at Yun Xiao, slowly drifting towards the heavens...

    "Ascend to reincarnation, our ancestors!" Yun Xiao''s forehead touched the blood-soaked ground, tears rolling down his cheeks.

    "Ancestors, enter the cycle of reincarnation!" The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators knelt, weeping profusely!

    The only way to let go of their resentment and be reborn was to repay that debt. To let them rest in peace.

    At that moment, a figure in a dragon robe appeared beside Yun Xiao. She proimed to the heavens and the earth¡­

    "Today, barring the Chen n¡­ the Ancestral Temple and Azure Leaf faction forged an imperial decree. Not only have they smeared my name, they''ve toppled the monument of our human heroes and forced our ancestors into demonic forms to ughter their descendants. Their sins are grievous and unforgivable! Themon people have been deceived. You have every right to be outraged. And I share in your fury!

    "Effective immediately, the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire abolishes the Ancestral Temple. I hereby decree the extermination of the Ye, Mu, Han, You, Mo, Ling, Chai, and Xia ns. Not a single one shall be spared!" With these words, she gazed into the distance.

    Behind the ruins of the Eternal Joy Inn stood four dark figures¡ªthe Gu Demon Emperor, Red Lotus Demon Emperor, Eclipse Demon Emperor, and Violet Emperor. They had watched Ye Qingtian meet his end.

    Facing them, Divine Dawn Empress dered withmanding authority, "From this moment, the gates of the Heavenly Realm will be temporarily sealed until every member of the above-mentioned ns is exterminated!"

    This decree of extermination was clearly meant for these outsiders to hear! Internal stability before dealing with external threats! After this deration, she turned to address the masses of the Heavenly Realm.

    "Furthermore, I have three imperial decrees to be enacted immediately!

    "First, rebuild the Sword Dao Monument at the gate of the Heavenly Realm and establish an altar. I dere today as Heroes Day. Every household in the Heavenly Realm must offer incense and honor their ancestors on this day each year.

    "Second, effective immediately, Sword Cultivation shall be the most revered path in the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire. Imand an empire-wide search for Sword Cultivator talents. Acknowledge the historic contributions of ancient Sword Cultivators to our race. Should anyone gather to distort history, they shall be executed!

    "Third, reestablish the order of the Heavenly Realm! I appoint Sword Saint Sun as the Prime Minister, and Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian as the heads of the Grand Temple, jointly managing the legacy of the Immortal Empire. Henceforth, the Grand Temple will lift its aristocratic restrictions. Talented individuals from all regions of the lower realms, if gifted, may also enter the Grand Temple for study!"

    These three imperial decrees were seismic in their impact!

    All who heard them were left reeling, their minds aze.

    In that moment, cries of approval were all that were needed!

    Without a doubt, these decrees, coupled with the abolition of the Ancestral Temple, were swift and decisive moves by Divine Dawn to thoroughly revolutionize the very foundations of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire!

    "Excising a tumor hurts, but it''s the only way we can survive, the only way to see tomorrow!

    "I refuse to believe that without the Azure Leaf faction aristocracy, our Divine Dawn Immortal Empire can''t produce outstanding talents!

    "Without them leeching off us, the talents of our Empire will emerge in greater numbers, with more opportunities and fairness!" Divine Dawn was clearly moved, adding these three statements after her decrees! And the effect was positive! More and moremon people, hearing these words, fell into a frenzy of celebration.

    "Even those of humble origin can enter the Grand Temple? We can be officials?"

    The Grand Temple was a ticket to glory!

    "Long live the Empress!"

    What transpired here resonated like seismic waves throughout the Heavenly Realm!

    Tens of millions were stirred!

    As the three imperial decrees from the Divine Dawn Empress in her dragon robe spread across the Heavenly Realm, the billion aggrieved souls formed into white clouds, finally finding release and dissipating.

    They knew that a desperate battle between humans and demonsy ahead. But in such a world, they now had confidence. Generations of grievances could finally rest in peace...

    Yun Xiao looked up, bidding farewell to the countless ancestors. This face-off would undoubtedly lead to greater conflicts.

    The Demon Emperor''sckeys were in, and the Heavenly Realm''s overt veneration of Sword Cultivators was a resounding p, mercilessly delivered to the faces of the Demon Continent.

    And it wasn''t over yet! Divine Dawn nced down at the despairing souls of the Azure Leaf faction powerhouses, Ancestral Temple Guards, and Grand Temple students in Yun Xiao''s sword.

    With a coldugh, shemanded the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, "I order you to construct a statue of a human body with a dog''s head within an hour, kneeling before the Sword Monument. Then lock these over half a million souls in it to burn eternally. When future generations worship the Sword Dao Monument, they must spit on it!"

    After saying this, she pursed her lips, adding one more line. "Anyone who dares not spit, I''ll p them myself, hmph!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 197: Humanitys Top Immortal! (1)

    Chapter 197: Humanity''s Top Immortal! (1)

    With a "Hmph", charming as it might be, the Divine Dawn Empress'' beauty was hidden beneath a shroud of blood-red lightning snakes. You couldn''t see her stunning face or her graceful figure. d in an imperial robe and crown, she exuded a beauty that was more felt than seen.

    "We obey the decree!" The hundred thousand Sword Cultivators knelt, their eyes zing red with fanaticism. For decades, they had honed their sword skills. But with no outlet for their fiery passion, their lives slipped away. Their swords remained sharp, yet their hearts rusted with sorrow.

    What a bitter fate it was, to be a sword without a cause! They couldn''t unsheathe their swords. But inside the Sword Tombs, they trained day and night, dreaming of this moment to serve their nation with fiery hearts.

    Decades of sword sharpening burst forth in divine brilliance today!

    Today, these hundred thousand Sword Cultivators overwhelmed five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards. An old man and three women faced the powerhouses of the Azure Leaf faction!

    Silent no more, their roar shook the heavens!

    From now on, the Sword Cultivators would serve as the Prime Minister of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire and the three deans of the Grand Temple Academy. The citizens of the Heavenly Realm all had high expectations!

    "They have finally found their life''s purpose," Yun Xiao thought, aware that this was the happiest moment for Sword Saint Sun and his three aunts. Seeing them tearful, his own eyes reddened slightly.

    Then, with a solemn stride, Yun Xiao walked into the blood-stained battlefield, dering, "I killed these people, so the treasures are mine. No one touch them!"

    "..." The crowd was speechless.

    They watched, dumbfounded, as Yun Xiao, under the watchful eyes of the Divine Dawn Empress, embarked on a gleeful treasure-hunting spree, starting with the wealthiest person¡ªYe Qingtian.

    Whether it was magic treasures, Saint Stones, or other cultivation resources, they were all sprawled out amidst the gore and blood! Along the rivers of blood,yers of dazzling Saint Stones shone, a sight so spectacr it was beyond words. Corpses danced with treasures. Blood and magic treasure vied for brilliance. This further proved a truth¡ªthe essence of the path of Immortals was to kill for treasure!

    "He sure doesn''t hold back, does he?"

    "He didn''t even ask the Empress for permission!"

    The people were torn betweenughter and tears.

    "It was the billion ancestors who killed them, but the credit, indeed, goes to Yun Xiao!"

    Everyone knew the dire straits they were in when the Sword Demon suppressed the Divine Dawn Empress. But Yun Xiao had managed to awaken the spirits of the wronged. Countless eyes saw him single-handedly sweep the battlefield, as elusive as a shadow.

    "Damn, is this guy reincarnated from a miser? I get the Saint Stones, but he''s not even letting go of a single Spirit Stone?"

    "Shoot! I was hoping to snag a few leftoverster!"

    "Let''s scatter, folks!"

    The crowd was dumbstruck.

    "Yun Xiao," the Divine Dawn Empress'' eyes, entwined in lightning, fixed on the young man, her gaze electric. "Did I ever say these treasures were yours? The possessions of these traitors are the Empire''s property..."

    Yun Xiao paused, then shook his head. "Impossible, the billion ancestors of our Sword Cultivators just said these are my rewards. If Your Majesty denies me, it''s oppression against our lineage. I''ll take this to the Sword Dao Monument for justice!"

    "..." The Divine Dawn Empress was speechless. After a long silence, she huffed and said slowly, "Fine, the possessions they carried are yours, but the treasuries, properties, and mines of the Azure Leaf faction belong to me!"

    "You''re the real skinflint..." Yun Xiao was stunned. Too naive! What the Divine Dawn Empress wanted was the real jackpot. He had been too hasty. As for the masses of the Heavenly Realm and the hundred thousand Sword Cultivators, they were seeing stars watching the two happily dividing the spoils.

    "I feel like Her Majesty and him are more suited for each other."

    "If Yun Xiao bes humanity''s top Immortal, that''d be really something."

    "Two maidens serving one man? Tsk, tsk..."

    The crowd was already dreaming up the details.

    At this moment, the Heavenly Realm was shaken by the deaths of the Azure Leaf faction''s bigshots and geniuses. Yet, the two at the eye of the storm were utterly calm.

    "After you''re done, return to Chen Heavenly Mansion immediately," the Divine Dawn Empressmanded sternly, her tone brooking no argument.

    "Are you busy with something else?" Yun Xiao asked softly.

    "Of course, I''m busy!" The Divine Dawn Empress¡¯ voice was icy. "You just killed the strong and the gifted, but the bulk of the Azure Leaf faction, entrenched in the Immortal Empire''s power structures, are the real challenge. Rooting them out and executing them will take time... And as expected, to save their skins, they''ll soon seek refuge with the demons."

    Yun Xiao understood this all too well.

    The ages of the Ancestral Temple Guards ranged from twenty to thirty. After these noble scions enjoyed the riches and resources of the Grand Temple and Ancestral Temple, they would ascend to the higher echelons of the Immortal Empire. They would gain true influence and power,manding the wind and rain.

    Why was the Divine Dawn Empress unaware of the dispatch of five hundred thousand Ancestral Temple Guards here? Simple. In terms of espionage, intelligence, and control over the Heavenly Realm, the Azure Leaf faction wielded even greater influence than her!

    The fact that the Divine Dawn Empress resorted to using the Nine Heavens Immortal Army for city patrols spoke volumes. In reality, she had very few resources at her disposal!

    In the capital of the Heavenly Realm, every passerby in the streets, every waiter in the inns, every matchmaker in the pleasure houses, could be a spy cultivated by the Azure Leaf faction... Such a method of control, subtle and pervasive, was the true mark of mastery.

    That''s why she had been so constrained before!

    Now that the higher-ups of the Azure Leaf faction were dead. Their future had been taken out in one fell swoop. It was like a body without a head, roots cut off, leaving only a cumbersome torso and limbs.

    Though bulky and unwieldy, given time, it could be consumed bit by bit!

    the Divine Dawn Empress was preparing for war with the Demon Continent. She had to thoroughly excise this cancer. She was truly busy every moment.

    Once the decree to eradicate entire families was issued, all the noble houses in the Heavenly Realm immediately began to resist, betraying their nation. As expected, battles had already erupted across the realm.

    "I must leave now," the Divine Dawn Empress said, turning to depart.

    "Wait," Yun Xiao called out, "Is your identity exposed now?"

    "If things have gone as expected, after today''s upheaval, it''s likely been revealed," the Divine Dawn Empress responded calmly.

    No wonder she seemed less concerned about hiding it!

    "Are you sure?"

    "Quite sure. When I killed Eternal Joy, and you were involved, the Demon Emperors probably began to have suspicions. Thistest interaction with you confirms it," the Divine Dawn Empress exined. Her implication was clear. Her dual identities, both having interacted with Yun Xiao, made it easy to connect the dots.

    Moon Fairy hadn''t yet prated the Demon continent''s decision-makingyer. Yun Xiao had been working hard to win over Lady Hua Lian, but on major issues, she remained tight-lipped.

    "This means the purpose behind the War of Immortals is now exposed, rendering it useless," Yun Xiao remarked, somewhat regretfully.

    "It can''t be helped," the Divine Dawn Empress looked at him, her voice soft, "ns can''t always keep up with changes, and you, indeed, are an unpredictable factor."

    "You don''t seem too upset?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Why should I be?" the Divine Dawn Empress smiled faintly. "Sure, my initial n of wiping out the young geniuses of the Demon Continent failed. But you helped me eradicate the Azure Leaf faction, solidifying my reign. In the long run, the gains are greater!"

    That made sense. It was like curing a major illness first!

    Taking care of a few symptoms solved nothing fundamental if you were chronically ill.

    "So, does this mean the War of Immortals won''t continue?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes." the Divine Dawn Empress nodded.

    "Hmm. Not necessarily." Yun Xiao grinned slyly. "I might have a way to force them back into the game."

    "Oh?" At his words, the Divine Dawn Empress¡¯ expectations rose.

 Chapter 198: Humanitys Top Immortal! (2)

    Chapter 198: Humanity''s Top Immortal! (2)

    In the dimness behind the wreckage of the Eternal Joy Inn, a throng of demons and a parade of spectral figures filled the air.

    The Violet Emperor and three Demon Emperors, their eyes cold and piercing, stared at the young man and woman in white atop the mountain of corpses and sea of blood.

    "Now it''s clear, her true identity is absolutely Chen Xi, the legitimate daughter of the Chen Heavenly Mansion!" The Gu Emperor, transformed into a short, plump man with dark green skin, had veins crawling under his skin like green worms.

    "An astonishingly talented marshal''s daughter, and she cleverly assumed another identity to ascend to the throne? Truly a remarkable person." Red Lotus gently stroked the bloody hair of a young boy in her arms, her voice ethereal.

    "She even added a twist to her original identity, like breaking off an engagement, to darken her own story! Such cunning, had it not been for meeting someone she fancied, we would have never dreamed that these two vastly different personas belonged to the same person!" Eclipse said, his face grim.

    "Mother, does this mean her true aim in hosting the War of Immortals was to annihte us, to end the Demon Continent''s future?" the young boy with bloody hair asked.

    "Yes," Red Lotus nodded tenderly.

    "Such a ruthless n! We haven''t even struck at her, and she dares to strike first?" Xiao Qi, the little girl beside the Violet Emperor, said chillingly.

    People called her the second Divine Dawn. But how could she like this title? Even though people imed she was the most talented human youth in the War of Immortals, she still remained in the Divine Dawn Empress'' shadow.

    Considering this, the children of the Emperors, human or demon, felt a twinge of fear. If the Divine Dawn Empress could kill the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, then no matter how proud they were, they didn''t have the guts to confront her.

    "What should we do? Abandon the battle?" the young boy with bloody hair asked.

    "Definitely abandon it," the Gu Emperor smirked coldly. "The issue with the Sword Dao Monument went awry, and the Divine Dawn Empress took the chance to seal the Heavenly Realm. On her turf, we can''t confront her."

    She was now at the zenith of her power, supported by the masses!

    "You all are the future of the Demon Continent, and not a single one of you can afford to falter. We''ve already suffered a setback; we certainly can''t dance to her tune and march to our doom. The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor is now far more powerful than before. We just need to consolidate our forces, avoid being devoured, and she will be the one to worry. By letting us into the Heavenly Realm, she should have been prepared to be attacked from both sides!" The Violet Emperor spoke with a conviction that subconsciously aligned him with the Demon Continent.

    "Knowing her scheme, we just need to endure. Besides, Forbidden Fate growing stronger has opened new avenues for us in the Endless Netherworld. Within a few days, we should be able to bring new surprises to the Demon Continent," Red Lotus said softly, pulling out a blood-stained finger and cing it in her son''s mouth.

    "Alright then."

    The various imperial children bowed their heads slightly. Their original goal ining to the Heavenly Realm was undoubtedly to crush the human talent and assert dominance over the Divine Continent.

    But things had gone awry. They lost their chance to perform before the battle even began! Reluctantly, most of them epted this.

    In a corner, a pale skeleton, its eye sockets burning with bone fire, spoke up.

    "Three Demon Emperors! Violet Emperor! I have something to say," the hoarse voice of the pale skeleton rasped.

    "What is it, Lil Bone? Speak," Eclipsemanded.

    "I''ve heard that once the War of Immortals battlefield is closed, reopening it from the inside is extremely difficult. Since Divine Dawn doesn''t know her identity has been uncovered by us, can we turn the tables? We hold her off inside while you create trouble outside. Reveal her identity, and use her wolfish ambitions as a pretext to eliminate her allies first! Especially her father, Chen Xiao. Capturing him could force Divine Dawn into a corner!" the pale skeleton suggested.

    "You make some sense, but if we act on the outside, sess is inevitable, yet¡ª" Eclipse nced at them and said, "You all will certainly perish! Not one of you will survive!"

    "Lil Bone, while this is indeed a grand opportunity, we must not be hasty. You are the gems of the Demon Continent, and as the likely victors, we shouldn''t risk everything," Red Lotus said softly.

    "Today''s biggest triumph is confirming Divine Dawn has no backing. That''s a major gain!" The Gu Emperor chuckled coldly.

    There was no more need to tread lightly!

    "Yes." The pale skeleton nodded, its ghostly fires flickering in its eye sockets.

    "However, having suffered such a setback, we must do something," Eclipse said with a cold smirk. He, Gu Emperor, Red Lotus, and the Violet Emperor exchanged nces, smirking knowingly.

    "Summon our people. Execute a third of the hostages from the other four great Immortal Empires'' royal families," Eclipse ordered with a wickedugh.

    They had indeed been tempted to gang up on the Divine Dawn Empress after Ye Qingtian''s death. But they had restrained themselves. Because beyond the Divine Dawn Empress, they had spotted another group. Unseen, but not unnoticed by demon eyes.

    "Just one sign of momentum from the Divine Dawn Empress, and those treacherous bones dare to have wandering thoughts. Killing a third of them will douse their spirits, let them cool down!"

    "The remaining two-thirds, we can kill slowly."

    With these words, the group of peak demon experts and geniuses turned and left the ruins of the Eternal Joy Inn, leading millions of demons to regroup and consolidate!

    They were about to formally announce to the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire that all talents from the Demon Continent and Violet Sky Immortal Empire would withdraw from the War of Immortals. But just then, another sensational piece of news rippled across thend.

    "Have you heard? In the great chaos, everyone from our Divine Continent, except for the Violet Sky Immortal Empire and Yun Xiao, has withdrawn from the battle!"

    "No way? Doesn''t this mean Yun Xiao has to face all the talents from Violet Sky and the Demon Continent alone? There are thousands of them!"

    "What''s going on? I heard Yun Xiao borrowed the power of a billion ancestors to defeat the Azure Leaf faction! Even if he''s above all the imperial sons and daughters in skill, can he really take on thousands single-handedly?"

    "Only the Empress could do that!"

    All the humans in the Heavenly Realm were dumbfounded. What kind of strategy was this?

    The Demon Continent and Violet Sky were even more bewildered. They were about to withdraw, only to find out their opponents had beaten them to it!

    As soon as the news reached them, the Gu Emperor sternly told the imperial children. "Forget it! We''re withdrawing too. All we need to do now is wait for Forbidden Fate to gather an army and press the attack. No matter how attractive the traps set by the other side are, we won''t bite!"

    "So, it''s just Yun Xiao participating in the grand melee..." the young boy with bloody hair murmured somberly.

    Everyone wore an incredibly odd expression. The most anticipated finale of the War of Immortals, fought by a single person, was bizarre beyond words. It was as if both the Divine and Demon Continents had collectively decided to crown Yun Xiao as the undisputed number one Immortal.

    "Three Demon Emperors!"

    Of the imperial children, a spine-chilling figure stepped forward. He was a gaunt, sallow young man, skin and bones, carrying a paper-mache woman on his back. The woman, heavily made up with immobile eyes, was eerily unsettling.

    For a moment, it was hard to tell who was the real demon¡ªthe young man or the paper woman?

    Such a peculiar demon suggested that, like Forbidden Fate, he was born from resentment. Simrly, Lil Bone was also a resentful spirit.

    In fact, among these imperial children, the three strongest were all born from resentment, topping the betting charts right from the start. All of them were disciples of the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor.

    Lil Bone ranked second, but this demon known as Ghost Marriage ranked first. He was the strongest young talent in both the Divine and Demon Continents, excluding the Divine Dawn Empress. His peculiar name, naturally, was tied to his resentment.

    "Speak!" The three Demon Emperors turned their attention to the paper woman on the young man''s back, as if she were the actual entity.

    Indeed, the paper woman''s expression twisted eerily. Meanwhile the young man beneath her spoke like a puppet, his voice dull. "In a battle of armies, it''s absurd to elevate Divine Dawn''s husband to glory. This damages the morale of our Demon Continent!"

    "So?" The Gu Emperor seemed quite polite to the paper woman.

    "The others might not fight, but I will! If I seed, I''ll kill Divine Dawn''s husband and take his ce, boosting our morale. If I fail, only I die, not harming the Demon Continent''s foundation," Ghost Marriage''s voice grew colder, as if someone was weeping inside him.

    "Enough!" The Gu Emperor swept his gaze around. "I know you''re all passionate, but we must follow our own rhythm in the Demon Continent! Just endure tonight, tomorrow belongs to us! You are all pirs of our future, we cannot afford to lose even one of you!"

    Hearing this, they could only lower their heads. Their hearts burned with unwillingness! But under the Gu Emperor''smand, they had to swallow their towering rage.

    An hourter, another sensational piece of news spread.

    "Violet Sky and the Demon Continent have decided to withdraw from the battle!"

    "Tonight at midnight, humanity''s top Immortal will be born..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 199: Worthy of the Sword!

    Chapter 199: Worthy of the Sword!

    In the Chen Heavenly Mansion, within a secret chamber beneath the ground of Dawn Pavilion''s annex, Yun Xiao stood awestruck. Before him, treasures piled up like mountains!

    To the left were pills and elixirs. Most of these were encased in jade bottles, still stained with blood. "Just these Neb grade Wind Fire Tribtion Pills number over a million. They''re easily worth hundreds of millions of Saint Stones!"

    To the righty Saint Stones, also blood-stained, their count reaching a staggering two hundred million. Piled together, they lit up the entire chamber like a crystal mountain, dazzling and magnificent. Even the blood mist swirling around couldn''t diminish their allure.

    Besides the pills and Saint Stones, the center was crammed with a plethora of magic treasures, armor, and cultivation resources of all sorts. You name it, it was there, from the bizarre to the wondrous, even the Imperial Seal, a Gxy grade national treasure, had found its way into Yun Xiao''s hands.

    "Richer than nations! I''ve struck gold!" His total assets were now at least four to five hundred million Saint Stones.

    "And with tomorrow''s end to the War of Immortals, I''ll rake in another hundred million from the Spirit Treasure Pce... What a thrill!"

    The ordeal of the Sword Dao Monument might have been rough, but the payoff was huge. Both Yun Xiao and the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire had made a killing. The spirits of their ancestors could finally rest.

    "I was nning to wait for the Spirit Treasure Pce''s reward to strengthen these two frail bodies. No need to wait now!"

    Once again, ns couldn''t keep up with the twists of fate.

    "It seems the very essence of the Creator Immortal lies in its ability to always surpass imagination..." Yun Xiao couldn''t help but reflect. He casually tossed the bronze brick into the Saint Stone mountain. The bronze brick clicked open automatically, and its coffin-like maw, dark as an abyss, began to devour!

    Humming and buzzing, the Saint Stones flowed like water, tumbling into the ancient bronze coffin with a crunching sound of being crushed.

    As Red Moon feasted, the coffin grew, soon transforming into a cultivation chamber!

    The eerie blue eyes on the coffin lid and the blood-red eyes on its body soon shone brighter than the sun itself, a testament to their nourishment.

    "Eat, eat, eat, eat!" Red Moon cried. With a wide-open maw, the blood-stained Saint Stones levitated, forming a torrent that poured inside, increasing in efficiency.

    "Thrilling! Absolutely thrilling!" Blue Star went from barely alive to bursting with life and vigor.

    They didn''t spare Yun Xiao a nce, their four eyes gleaming, fixated only on the Saint Stones.

    Yun Xiao felt a wave of relief seeing theme to life. He was about to offer some words of praise, but his expression quickly fell. "Damn it, stop!" he eximed. Their eating pace elerated, and in a wild turn, they flipped upside down, engulfing nearly two hundred million Saint Stones!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao, once richer than nations, was now as poor as a church mouse in an instant. "Gone?" He stared at the empty spot where the mountain of Saint Stones once stood, his face a picture of utter disarray.

    "You know nothing, boy. The emptier it is, the more it needs to be filled," Blue Star chuckled.

    "And what about me?" Yun Xiao shot back.

    "Turns out having a safety is more important. You keep training slowly; I''m taking off first!" Blue Star dered with an air of righteousness.

    "Eat, eat, eat!" Red Moon, frantic with hunger, gobbled even more wildly.

    <em>BOOM! </em>It then pounced on the nearby mountain of pills and elixirs! The abyss-like maw swallowed everything, pills and bottles alike, not sparing even a cap.

    "Don''t eat them all! I still need them to trigger the Wind Fire Tribtion!" Yun Xiao''s vision darkened.

    "Oh really?" Blue Star waved his hand grandly. "Dummy, leave some for our friend!"

    "How much?" Red Moon reluctantly spat out a Wind Fire Tribtion Pill. "Is one enough?"

    "Get out of here!" Yun Xiao rushed over, shoving the ancient bronze coffin aside. Underneath its bloodied maw, he managed to save about two hundred thousand Wind Fire Tribtion Pills. Out of a million, he only grabbed two hundred thousand!

    "My Primordial Void Technique needs to undergo the Wind Fire Tribtion to transform into sacred power. This process requires far more Wind Fire Tribtion Pills than usual... But two hundred thousand as a catalyst should suffice."

    Triggering tribtions with the pills, plus Blue Star and Red Moon''s power boost, made cultivating in the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm not so daunting for Yun Xiao. The only question was¡­ would the Great Merciful Tribtion stille?

    "Bluey and Reddy are much stronger now. It''s worth another shot!" Yun Xiao eximed. Whether easy or hard, he had to face it! "If the Great Merciful Tribtiones again, it''s like spending money to eradicate the Demon Continent! If not, it''s a breakthrough for me, increasing my own capital."

    The foundation of their trio, one man and two beasts, stilly with Yun Xiao. His strength was key.

    "Let''s do this!" After devouring all the Saint Stones and four-fifths of the pills, the ancient bronze coffin transformed into a little ck beast. Yun Xiao could clearly feel they seemed a bit fatter¡­ They had literally eaten themselves plump!

    Gluttonous, indeed. Seeing them in such a <em>prosperous</em> state, Yun Xiao knew he could once again indulge without a care. The money was earned through his own battles and conquests.

    "Sure, the rollercoaster from riches to rags is jarring, but spending money to save your skin is the best investment there is!" Yun Xiao mused. After all, only the living can grow.

    With a calm heart, still as an ancient well, he sat cross-legged in the secret chamber. In thest half-hour before the great chaos unfolded, he consumed arge number of Wind Fire Tribtion Pills, bracing himself for the second Wind Fire Tribtion.

    "Another Great Merciful Tribtion?" Yun Xiao wondered. The power of the pills coursed through his body, stirring his magic power, flesh, and bones.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze was fixed above the skies of the Chen Heavenly Mansion. After about twenty breaths, the night sky over the Heavenly Realm was serene. "Seems like the foolhardyws of the Dao realm have written me off as dead," he concluded. Though he couldn''t strike at the Demon Continent again, staying off the radar was ultimately a good thing.

    So, Yun Xiao settled in to face his tribtion. Even without the Great Merciful Tribtion, the second Wind Fire Tribtion he faced was at the utmost limit for mortals. To be honest, it was torturous!

    In the chamber, Yun Xiao was scorched and buffeted, teetering between life and death, emitting low howls of pain. This Wind Fire Tribtion made him, for the first time, truly understand the difficulty of the path of immortality. But it didn''tst long. Soon, he smoothly entered the Mid Wind Fire Tribtion Realm.

    "Do I still have time?" Calcting the distance to his ascension, Yun Xiao boldly consumed a second batch of Wind Fire Tribtion Pills, this time thirty thousand, twice as many as before.

    The even more formidable third Wind Fire Tribtion descended upon him.

    "Damn..." This round was even more brutal. Yun Xiao''s flesh and bones were incinerated and obliterated time and again, the cycle of aging and rejuvenation of his flesh was agonizing.

    Fortunately, the life-giving power of his Primordial Void Technique was terrifyingly potent, regenerating his flesh quickly, sparing him some of the pain. "The integration of the Yin Void power has indeed bnced things out," he thought. "Less ferocity, but more depth and stability."

    Thinking of the night''s sess in the War of Immortals, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but cough at the thought of absorbing the Yin Void power for the third time. "Time is running out, and my body can''t endure a fourth Wind Fire Tribtion..."

    And so, Yun Xiao, now in the Late Wind Fire Tribtion, suddenly stood up. He soared into the sky on his Sovereign Sword, heading straight for the Ascension Gate.

    "From a time when a Sword Cultivator couldn''t wield a sword, to now, with Sword Saint Sun as the Prime Minister, and my three aunties serving as the three deans of the Grand Temple, the Heavenly Realm has changed... all thanks to the sword!" Yun Xiao, bathed in the wind, looked coldly towards the first battlefield. "Demon Continent scum, some battles aren''t optional, heh..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Though the Ancestral Temple had been abolished, the mansion still stood, serving as the Demon Continent''s main base in the Heavenly Realm. Amidst the enveloping demon mist, a person with silver hair strode towards a dark house.

    "Keep searching! Dig three feet into the ground if you must, but find her!" Before Moon Fairy could enter, he heard the furious roar from inside.

    <em>BANG! </em>A hulking wolf demon was sent flying out, blood spraying, as it scurried away with its tail between its legs, evidence of the rage of the person inside.

    "Eclipse Demon Emperor..." Moon Fairy entered and bowed his head. The ck-d youth in front of him stood with his hands behind his back, his eyes blood red.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>He appeared in front of Moon Fairy, grabbing him by the cor. His face contorted into a fearsome visage, full of fangs and ferocity. "When was thest time you saw my sister?" the Eclipse Demon Emperor asked in a sinister tone.

    Moon Fairy thought for a moment, "When you bestowed the Lunar me Armor on me." After saying this, he nced behind him. Among the crowd of Demon Saints stood a fragile and charming woman¡ªLady Hua Lian.

    "After bidding her farewell, I went to cultivate with my master," Moon Fairy added.

    "Yes," Lady Hua Lian affirmed with a nod.

    <em>BANG! </em>The Eclipse Demon Emperor threw Moon Fairy to the ground, angrily using, "You are her servant, and you didn''t follow her?!"

    "She wouldn''t let me follow..." Moon Fairy''s gaze was distant, tinged with confusion. "What''s happened to her? Is she in trouble?"

    "She''s gone missing!" Eclipse Demon Emperor''s eyes were bloodshot with rage. "Disappearing at this critical moment, it''s bound to spell disaster!"

    "Trouble..." Scrambling to his feet, Moon Fairy''s face was etched with worry. "I''ll go find her!"

    "Get lost!" Eclipse Demon Emperor kicked him away in a fury, and with a fierce p, the dark mansion crumbled to the ground. "What are you waiting for? Everyone out and find her!"

    "Lil Tian," Red Lotus'' gentle voice rang out. "Sure, we must search, but we need to stick together. Divine Dawn is in the middle of eradicating Ye Qingtian''s remaining followers. Don''t let her seize the opportunity in the shadows."

    "It''s a pity Ye Qingtian''s informants are paralyzed. Otherwise, finding someone in this Heavenly Realm wouldn''t be difficult," the Gu Emperor remarked, shaking his head. To their experienced eyes, the disappearance of a key figure at such a time was more likely to be ominous than not.

    Many demon saints sighed softly. They all knew how dearly the Eclipse Demon Emperor cherished his sister.

    "If she''s harmed, I swear I''ll make millions in this Heavenly Realm pay with their lives for her!" With these fierce words, the dark-haired youth transformed into a whirlwind and charged out!

    "Hah." Moon Fairy also stood up. His eyes were bloodshot, his face contorted with anger and clenched fists. He immediately turned and followed Eclipse Demon Emperor.

    "Moon Fairy!" Lady Hua Lian called out softly, "Where are you going? It''s too dangerous outside."

    "Master..." His voice was a mix of rage and sobbing. "If she''s gone, my life has no meaning!" With that, he transformed into a tempest, brushing aside all attempts to stop him, and stormed out of the Ancestral Temple.

 Chapter 200: Sister of the Moon and Son of the Lotus, Whoever Looks at Either Dies!

    Chapter 200: Sister of the Moon and Son of the Lotus, Whoever Looks at Either Dies!

    Lady Hua Lian sighed deeply and chased after Moon Fairy. "Gentlemen, please excuse me for a moment."

    The crowd, witnessing this scene, felt a surge of frustration. The once-proud demon race, now cornered into defending themselves within the Ancestral Temple? Even the disappearance of a genius like Tian Lu left them huddled together, searching in vain.

    Had it not been for the Gu Emperor''s decision toy low for the night, would they, with their strength, have been subjected to such humiliation? Not just the young ones, even the 108 Demon Saints felt a fiery anger burning in their chests.

    Demons, with their beastly and fierce nature, killing was in their blood. Learning to hide and bide their time like humans was against their very nature, a challenging endeavor indeed.

    The stronger the demon, the greater their patience. Meanwhile, countless low and middle-tier demons inside the Spirit Treasure Pce were already restless, bumping into everything, their low howls revealing their wild nature.

    "Has Moon Fairy gained strength again?" a ghostly me asked, taking on a human form. This was the Burning Saint, one of the 108 Demon Saints, incredibly close to the Demon Emperor himself.

    "Perhaps the wind fire tribtion has solidified his cultivation," the Ape Saint suggested. As a beast demon, he was a general under the Eclipse Demon Emperor. The rise of Moon Fairy had also cast a favorable light on him, so he spoke of him with admiration.

    "Realm solidification?" The demons gasped in surprise at the mention.

    "It seems the beast lineage is about to produce a peerless genius."

    "Congrattions are in order!"

    "A fox with such talent is rare indeed!"

    "If Yun Xiao is the shining new star of humanity, then Moon Fairy can certainly be the new star of the Demon Continent!"

    Everyone nced at the Gu Emperor and sighed inwardly.

    "s, tonight, these two stars won''t have the chance to sh..."

    They could feel it. Even without the ancestral power of the one billion Sword Cultivators, Moon Fairy seemed much stronger than Yun Xiao had been a few hours earlier.

    "Moon Fairy and Tian Lu share a close bloodline. This little fox seems quite fond of Tian Lu. If nothing had happened to her, they would have been the talk of the Demon Continent," Ape Saint murmured quietly.

    "What a pity," the Burning Saint shook his head, his eyes zing with fire.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Lil Moon!" Lady Hua Lian caught up with Moon Fairy, grabbing his sleeve.

    "Master, what''s wrong?" Moon Fairy turned around, looking at the beautiful master he spent day and night with. His gaze was calm, a stark contrast to his earlier despair.

    "You lied again!" Lady Hua Lian looked at him somberly, her eyes filled withplexity.

    "I only lie to outsiders." Moon Fairy lowered his head slightly, gazing at her face. "But in front of you, I won''t utter a single falsehood."

    "Really?" Lady Hua Lian bit her lip. "Then tell me, do you like Tian Lu?"

    "Who would care for a stray dog?" Moon Fairy smiled.

    "Then why put on such an act?" Lady Hua Lian was puzzled.

    "Master¡­" Moon Fairy held her shoulders earnestly. "I can''t tell you now, but one day, I will confess everything."

    "When will that be?" Lady Hua Lian asked.

    Moon Fairy looked at the weather and said, "When the spring warms and the flowers bloom..."

    "Lil Moon!" Lady Hua Lian''s eyes were filled with sorrow, perhaps a hint of anger. She lowered her head, her eyes brimming with tears, and said with a worried voice, "I can see your ambition is great. What exactly do you want to do?"

    "Of course, to be the overlord of the Demon Continent! You know I have the capability. I can make our Fox n the true king of all demons, the most noble bloodline in both the divine and demon realms!" Moon Fairy''s eyes zed with passion.

    These words didn''t surprise Lady Hua Lian. She shook her head sadly and said, "Every rise and recement means countless weak ones be sacrifices. The survival path of humanity requires the bones of both races, and your rise will also mean stepping over numerous corpses. These struggles for power, in the end, are but cmities of the world... Can''t we just let it go?"

    "Not struggle?" Moon Fairy shook his head. "If we don''t struggle, what can we do?"

    Lady Hua Lian extended her hand, gently embracing him, her cheek against his chest, her eyes filled with tears. "The strife of the world has always existed. In an era of great turmoil, who can truly forge peace? It''s impossible... Our lives are short and powerless, with very little we can do. Wouldn''t it be better to leave this whirlpool of suffering with your master and live freely and at ease?

    "Just the two of us in this world, free from right and wrong, free from troubles, hand in hand witnessing the sunrise and sunset..."

    "Master, you are na?ve," Moon Fairy held her face, his gaze intense. "Thews of nature dictate survival of the fittest. You, as a pioneer for the Fox n, are the hope of our people. If even you flee, who will stand up for our n? We are born with our bloodlines and factions; these are the marks of our survival that none can escape.

    "There''s no such thing as carefree freedom in this world, only evasion, selfishness, and cowardice! Born into the Fox n, it is my destiny. As a man of honor, I cannot live just for my own freedom. Even the greatest freedom has its limits. Once faced with someone stronger, our very right to live is no longer in our hands!"

    Saying this, Moon Fairy let go of her face, gazed into the darkness ahead, and said through gritted teeth, "I, Yu¡ªMoon Fairy, born a fox, hereby swear never to kneel again in this life! Whoever forces me, may their entire family perish!" With that, he gave Lady Hua Lian a deep look and vanished into the darkness.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the streets of the Spirit Treasure Pce, groups of demons moved eerily through the deep night.

    The Nine Heavens Immortal Army, short on hands, could only keep a watchful eye on them.

    "Are these demons looking for someone?" Chen Jin stood at the grand entrance of the Spirit Treasure Pce, patrolling with a group of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    "Commander, they are calling for Tian Lu," someone reported.

    "The sister of the Eclipse Demon Emperor?" Zhao Xiaotang snickered coldly. "It reminds me of a popr saying in the Demon Continent."

    "Let''s hear it," Stray Dog, standing nearby, said with keen interest.

    "''Sister of the Moon, son of the Lotus, whoever looks at either dies,''" Zhao Xiaotang said with a grin.

    "The Moon refers to the Eclipse Demon Emperor, and the Lotus to Red Lotus. So, this is about Tian Lu and Xue Qi, two brutal geniuses of the Demon Continent, right? Whoever sees them dies?" Stray Dog asked.

    "Not exactly," Zhao Xiaotang shrugged. "It means they are the darling hearts of the two Demon Emperors, their absolute untouchables! Anyone who dares to nce at them risks the wrath of the Demon Emperors."

    "Got it. It''s an exaggeration, but it shows how much the Demon Emperors love their sister and son!" Stray Dog realized.

    "Beastly love, twisted and ludicrous," Chen Jin sneered.

    "At such a sensitive time, to mobilize such a force for a search reveals much," Nangong Xu said gravely.

    Just then, they spotted a group!

    "Ghost Marriage? White Bone Spirit? And there''s Angry Cauldron, Xue Qi... and even the seventh princess of Violet Sky." Zhao Xiaotang raised an eyebrow.

    "With all of them gathered, they''re probably looking for Tian Lu," Chen Jin surmised.

    There was a gaunt young man carrying a paper effigy of a woman, a skeletal figure, and a burly man with dark skin and fire patterns...

    This group included the top three in the initial betting odds for the War of Immortals. The son of the Red Lotus Demon Emperor, Xue Qi, ranked fourth.

    Seeing this group under the protection of the Demon Continent''s elite, their eyes burning with rage, Zhao Xiaotang had an idea. "I''ll tease them a bit."

    Despite his effeminate appearance, he was quite daring!

    "Hahaha, brothers, this is hrious!" Zhao Xiaotang suddenlyughed shrilly, bending over in glee to Chen Jin.

    "What''s so funny? Share with us," Stray Dog yed along.

    "I bet, the brothers from the Demon Continent are here for charity this time!" Zhao Xiaotang eximed.

    "How so, brother?" Chen Jin asked.

    "Just think about it. A few days ago, in our Spirit Treasure Pce''s betting pool, millions of demons bet all they had on the top five in the odds. They bet fiercely, but guess what? They withdrew from the fight! The entire Demon Continent''s geniuses graciously allowed our Yun Xiao to be the top Immortal. Isn''t that a pure loss? Haha!"

    Zhao Xiaotang''s expression was exaggerated, his voice irritatingly loud,ughing so hard that his voice carried far.

    "That''s impossible!" Stray Dog shook his head in mock disbelief. "I heard the Demon Continent and Violet Sky Immortal Empire''s withdrawal was fake news. Once the big battle starts, they might ambush and attack us! Think about it, those Demon Princes and Princesses of the Demon Continent are so proud, how could they be cowards? Wouldn''t that be like giving away all the Demon Continent''s money to us? Only our grandchildren would do something like that!"

    "I also think it''s impossible. I''ve seen those Demon Princes and Demon Princesses before; they strut around like they own the ce. How could they be too scared to fight, running away with their tails between their legs? Even my grandma isn''t that cowardly!" Chen Jin shook his head.

    The three of them sang in harmony! The passing imperial youths, already burning with anger inside, felt their faces tear with rage at these words.

    "Shut up!" the burly man with dark skin bellowed, his ck fury erupting towards Chen Jin and hispanions.

    <em>BOOM!</em> Chen Jin and his group managed to block the attack with their magic, but they were left disheveled, rolling away in retreat. Their faces changed drastically as they hastily fled back to the Spirit Treasure Pce.

    "He''s strong! Terrifyingly strong! Such a fearsome demon, yet he''s got less backbone than the droppings I pull!" Zhao Xiaotang eximed, clicking his tongue in amazement.

    "Zip it! They''re just pretending. They''re definitely going to join the battle! Even my grandma wouldn''t tolerate such humiliation," Chen Jin asserted confidently.

    "How old is your grandma?" Stray Dog inquired.

    "She''s passed away!" Chen Jin chuckled. "Honestly, if someone insulted her to this extent, she''d climb right out of her grave. I can''t believe that these Demon Princes and Princesses of the Demon Continent have less spine than ash. It''s unbelievable!"

    "Enough talk, let''s count our money!" Zhao Xiaotangughed.

    <em>BANG! </em>As they spoke, the doors of the Spirit Treasure Pce mmed shut.

    Outside, the group of imperial youths stared at the Spirit Treasure Pce, their hearts aze with fiery blood.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Finally, midnight arrived.

    Around the Ascension Gate, it was a sea of people, both humans and demons. The Demon Emperors, Demon Princes and Princess, and millions of demons were present as well.

    Even those who were not participating in the battle were personally invited by the Supreme Marshal, with all manners of pleasantries exchanged, toe and observe.

    Under the gaze of the masses, a young man in white descended from the sky, Sovereign Sword underfoot!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 201: Fragile Human World!

    Chapter 201: Fragile Human World!

    As Yun Xiaonded, a thunderous roar erupted around the entrance to the Ascension Gate. His name echoed through the Heavenly Realm. Despite the chaos, the fervor of the cultivators for the War of Immortals couldn''t be dampened.

    Nearly twenty million beings of the Heavenly Realm had gathered to witness the birth of humanity''s top Immortal! And there were plenty of demons too!

    These self-motivated demons from the Demon Continent had no organization, no discipline. Even under the emotional sway of their beastly nature, the Gu Emperor found it hard to keep them in check. Causing trouble was in their nature, but restraint? Hardly.

    "In such a spectacle, it seems Tian Lu is absent. Probably out of the picture," said the Gu Emperor from his lofty seat, surveying the sea of beings.

    To avoid conflicts, the spectator area was divided. On the left were millions of demons, the 108 Demon Saints, and the three Demon Emperors! On the right were the people from the Divine Continent, officials from the Immortal Empires, and the six Emperors of the Divine Continent!

    Ignoring the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, the sides were evenly matched. This precarious bnce in the Heavenly Realm, on the eve of a storm, created a delicate equilibrium. Though enemies, there was a superficial politeness.

    "Pity." Red Lotus nodded slightly, the blood in her eyes forming a lotus pattern. Her gaze shifted to the ck-d youth at the edge, the Eclipse Demon Emperor, with a hint of worry.

    His eyes, devoid of whites, were pitch-ck, signaling extreme danger, like a raging hound.

    "The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor has news. The Demon Continent''s army is ready, plus the surprise from the Endless Netherworld... We just need to stay calm until the Demon Continent''s army arrives," the Gu Emperor said, a subtle reminder to the impetuous Eclipse Demon Emperor. He knew this hot-headed pup often threw caution to the wind, losing sight of the bigger picture.

    Given the choice, the Gu Emperor would rather see those three resentful demons in trouble than anything happen to the sister of the moon and son of Red Lotus.

    "Just our current forces in the Heavenly Realm are a hard pill for Divine Dawn to swallow. When our main forces arrive, this human realm will crumble at the slightest touch!" The Gu Emperor, perched on his high seat, gripping the armrest, looked fierce. After his deration, his gaze shifted to the highest throne in the center. There sat a young girl in a dragon robe and a crown!

    "Her sitting there as Divine Dawn means she''s aware her identity is no secret anymore. No more Chen Xi charades. But why does she have such faith in Yun Xiao?" To let him rece her as Divine Dawn, facing off against Violet Sky and the Demon Continent? Did he really have the chops for it?

    The Gu Emperor didn''t mean to underestimate. He knew well enough that Divine Dawn''s provocation must have a rationale. That''s why he endured the jeers of the mob, insisting on not joining the fray.

    He didn''t even want to be here! But s, managing millions of savage, unruly demons was tricky. A slight provocation and they''d explode, swarming this ce early on.

    If the Gu Emperor didn''t show up to keep things under control, he feared a brawl would break out even before the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor arrived.

    "Demons and humans... there''s a difference in nature and behavior!"

    This was something the Gu Emperor couldn''t change. Though he had shed his primal demonic ways, excelling in lying low, most demons were still in their bloodthirsty bones! Not just the ordinary demons, but even the Demon Princes and Princesses!

    In this final hour, their temperaments were wildly unpredictable. Each of them harbored a volcano in their chest, their eyes a zing crimson, agitated by some unknown provocation.

    The code of conduct for demons, akin to that of Sword Cultivators, scarcelyprehended the concept of restraint.

    None of them feared death!

    Under such a premise, the Gu Emperor realized upon his arrival that the grand melee finale of the War of Immortals was a powder keg waiting to explode.

    "Forbidden Fate, you better hurry! If not, we might have to start the brawl ourselves! This battleground is in their human turf. Even if it''s a fight to the death, we won''t be at a loss!" Red Lotus said, eyeing the myriad human spectators.

    "Mhm." The Gu Emperor nodded gravely.

    Shadows loomed over the entire battlefield.

    At this moment, the Divine Dawn Empress turned to the three Demon Emperors, speaking solemnly, "I''ve heard of the cmity that befell the Demon Continent. We deeply mourn your loss. Please, my Demon Continent brethren, ept my condolences."

    "It''s appreciated," the Gu Emperor replied.

    The Divine Dawn Empress nodded, then continued, "As for the rebellion led by Ye Qingtian and You Fengya, it''s embarrassing that our esteemed guests had to witness such a farce. During a nation''s grand event, traitors emerge, harming the people. Thankfully, Yun Xiao upheld the will of our ancestors and quelled the rebellion. Without his efforts, this War of Immortals might not have been possible. My apologies."

    Nearby, an elder in an orange-yellow dragon robe, the Emperor of the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire, spoke up, "Your Majesty Divine Dawn, do not me yourself. Ye Qingtian''s fall was his own doing. His n''s demise is celebrated by the people of the Heavenly Realm, a scourge removed. I believe that after this ordeal, Divine Dawn''s realm will cut off a national cancer and usher in a new golden age!"

    "Thank you for your auspicious words," the Divine Dawn Empress replied, looking towards the three Demon Emperors, "In the future, We will need the support of both the Divine and Demon Continents to foster prosperity and growth!"

    "Indeed!" All the human and Demon Emperors nodded slightly. A seemingly harmonious scene, yet each person, each nation, harbored their own schemes.

    Though Ye Qingtian was a dog of the Demon Continent, officially a high official of the Heavenly Realm, his n''s downfall, now valueless, meant the Demon Continent had long since kicked him out of the game.

    And so, at this moment, there was a superficial harmony on the scene, as if the three Demon Emperors and six human sovereigns were the best of friends. It was like two sides of a war separated by a thin sheet of paper! Before it''s pierced, all seems peaceful.

    The Divine Dawn Empress didn''t mention a word about the Demon Continent''s withdrawal, showing no signs of provocation.

    Then, she stood up, recing You Fengya to personally oversee the grand melee! A so-called grand melee, yet there was only one person on the field... This was indeed a first in the history of the Heavenly Realm.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A massive, hemispherical golden and red formation rose up, marking the battlefield for the melee.

    "At the stroke of midnight, the War of Immortals battlefield will officially close. There''s still time to enter!" Leaving these intriguing words, the Divine Dawn Empress sat back down.

    <em>THUMP THUMP THUMP! </em>The crowd watched the lone figure in white standing on the battlefield. Even the humans were thinking, "Hurry! Why isn''t anyone else entering?"

    "No fight, and we already have our top Immortal? What''s there to watch?" Many humans had ced their bets on the Demon Princes and Princesses of the Demon Continent! In this world of high stakes, urgency was mounting.

    "At least three thousand people have the tokens to join the battle! Not one dares to enter?"

    "What if Yun Xiao is pulling a bluff? Wouldn''t that be a loss?"

    "Are the geniuses of the Divine and Demon Continents really that timid?"

    In reality, the public was mistaken. Anyone with a token, at that moment, struggled to resist the urge to fight for glory. But their elders had strictly forbidden it! So, these millions of expectant humans and demons could only watch Yun Xiao alone. Not just watch, but for a whole hour! It was frustratingly boring!

    "Go in!" Countless humans and demons began to shout.

    This scene made the Gu Emperor frown deeply, as he emphasized, "Don''t act rashly."

    "I, the resentful demon Angry Cauldron may die, but I will not be humiliated!" the resentful demon growled lowly. It was a bizarre thing, a magic treasure turned demon, steeped in the resentful spirits and anger of the countless corpses it had held.

    "If you speak out of turn again, you''ll be the first I silence!" the Gu Emperor coldly warned. But his words couldn''t quell the fury of the Demon Continent! Even Red Lotus and the Eclipse Demon Emperor remained silent.

    Just as the Gu Emperor finished speaking, a youthful voice echoed from the direction of the first battlefield.

    "All these people, and not one brave soul among you?"

    A chill ran through the crowd as they turned to look.

    Indeed, it was Yun Xiao speaking.

    "Is he not satisfied with being given the title of humanity''s top Immortal for now? Now, he dares to provoke us too?" The Gu Emperor''s eyes grew colder. "All the more reason not to fall for this trick!"

    "Boring!" Yun Xiao yawned. He suddenlyughed, then spun around to face the Eclipse Demon Emperor. "You know, I happened to step out today and found a dog''s head. Don''t know whose mongrel lost it. Anyone care to im it?"

    As he spoke, Yun Xiao produced a ck dog''s head, waving it in his hand. The dog''s head, with its dark fur and a blood-red crescent on its brow, had eyes wide in shock, dead and astonished.

    The appearance of this dog''s head turned the previously noisy surroundings dead silent in an instant. Humans and demons alike stared dumbfounded at the sight of the head.

    "Sister of the Moon, son of the lotus¡­ cross either and meet your end..." That moment, a phrase echoed in countless minds.

    <em>SWOOSH! </em>Millions of eyes simultaneously lifted to gaze at the Eclipse Demon Emperor atop the Ascension Gate.

    "Trouble''s brewing!!" Hearts pounded, and demons found it hard to breathe! They had searched long and hard, and now the sister of the Moon had finally appeared in such a dramatic fashion...

    <em>BOOM! </em>A surge of pitch-ck smoke suddenly billowed from the Ascension Gate! The smoke, ten yards thick and filled with ferocious bloody energy, was a sight to behold. With a roar that could rip the sky asunder, a beastly fury shook the Heavenly Realm! The pitch-ck smoke surged instantly towards the battlefield.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The battlefield shook violently, its golden-red dragons shimmering to life. The formation held firm, but the ground around it shattered into a web of cracks! Within the fog, a crimson beast''s face appeared, baring dagger-like fangs, snapping its jaws onto the formation!

    "Terrifying..." The humans, witnessing this, were struck with horror, scrambling backwards instinctively.

    "Kill him!" The pent-up rage of millions of demons ignited at the sight of that dog''s head. Baring their teeth and howling wildly, their fury quickly overshadowed the humans!

    It showed that while demons might be impulsive and violent, they had one advantage on the battlefield¡ªtheir fearlessness in the face of death, fighting ferociously!

    Humans, on the other hand, often overthought, prone to panic and fear.

    To kill Yun Xiao, the demons had to breach the battlefield first! But even the repeated assaults of the Eclipse Demon Emperor failed to rip through the formation, a testament to the ancient wisdom of the human race.

    "Divine Dawn!" The Gu Emperor and Red Lotus stood up abruptly, their green and blood-red demonic lights locking onto the source of the voice, their menacing aura sweeping in.

    "He killed a talent of our Demon Continent outside the battlefield and used her corpse to provoke us. How do you exin this?" From the Gu Emperor''s coarse pores, countless tiny green eyes emerged.

    "Divine Dawn, are you looking to shatter the peace between ournds, dering war on the Demon Continent, and be a historical viin of the world?" Red Lotus spoke, her voice cold and haunting.

 Chapter 202: Battle Between Two Stars!

    Chapter 202: Battle Between Two Stars!

    "Please, both of you, calm your fury. This is a misunderstanding," the Divine Dawn Empress pleaded with a face full of helplessness. "I apologize! This is entirely Yun Xiao''s doing. Thed has made a grave mistake, and I shall punish him severely!"

    "And what might this <em>severe punishment</em> be?" the Gu Emperor asked coldly.

    Before the gathered crowd, the Divine Dawn Empress dered, "Yun Xiao has acted recklessly, killing guests of our Immortal Empire without cause. Even if he has made contributions to the world, he cannot escape his crimes. Therefore, I have decided to strip him of his powers, confine him to the deep pce, and personally oversee his punishment. He shall not see another soul for the rest of his life!"

    "Then deal with him now!" the Gu Emperor demanded, wanting to see Yun Xiao''s powers stripped away with his own eyes. Once he''s powerless, he''s no threat! As for revenge, the Demon Continent could handle that themselves.

    Yun Xiao''s previous killing of Kong Ming was in the heat of battle, leaving the Demon Continent with no ground toin. But this time, they finally had the upper hand!

    "Gu Emperor, the War of Immortals battlefield has opened, and it will close only when the time is right! I will strip him of his powers then," the Divine Dawn Empress said.

    Even the patient Gu Emperor was struggling to hold his anger upon hearing this. Furious as he was, he still had to wait an hour to execute Yun Xiao? How was he supposed to endure this hour? Watching Yun Xiao kick around inside like a dog?

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Eclipse Demon Emperor tried onest time to break open the battlefield''s formation but failed!

    Inside the formation, Yun Xiao, holding a dog''s head in his hand, ignored the Divine Dawn Empress'' draining judgment. He scoffed at the Eclipse Demon Emperor, taunting, "What''s the matter, Eclipse Demon Emperor? Did you skip your meal? With such feeble strength, you can''t even tickle this formation!"

    Everyone present buzzed in their minds upon hearing this.

    The Divine Dawn Empress had abandoned him, yet he dared to mock the Demon Emperor? And the worst part was, he was holding someone''s head!

    The Eclipse Demon Emperor had never been so insulted in his life. If it had been an equal adversary, it wouldn''t have been so infuriating. But this boy was someone he could crush with a single w!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The entire battlefield was engulfed in ck smoke. With explosive sounds reverberating, the formation stood firm while the surroundingnd and buildings were obliterated!

    The spectating humans and demons had no choice but to retreat further back. The entire battlefield was shrouded in thick smoke, and ferocious beasts roared to the heavens.

    "Ha ha ha..." Yun Xiao''s coldughter rang piercingly amidst the demonic shrieks. Alone in the formation, he faced the ck heavenly hound. "An hour, you say? Then enjoy the show!"

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>He pulled the rest of the dog corpse out from his Pouch of Holding. Hearing how important the Eclipse''s sister was, he had personally gone corpse-picking. He tossed the dog corpse onto the ground and began setting up his tools¡ªa stove, ginger, scallions, garlic¡ªall neatly arranged.

    The sight left both humans and demons dumbfounded. What on earth was he nning?

    The young man in white rolled up his sleeves and smiled slightly. "An hour is just enough time to stew a pot of fragrant dog meat!"

    He nced at the Eclipse Demon Emperor and continued cheerfully, "It seems you''re in a hurry, so you can wait at the door. I''ll let you have the first taste. But I have a question. Do dogs eat dog bones?"

    This question exploded like a bomb!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Millions of demons had their minds blown, smoke practically billowing from their nostrils!

    The Eclipse Demon Emperor fell silent, his dense fog and shadowspletely enveloping the formation of the first battlefield. He said no more, focusing on one thing only¡ªbreaking the formation to exact revenge.

    "Yun Xiao, hold your tongue! Do not insult the esteemed guests of the Heavenly Realm!" the Divine Dawn Empressmanded authoritatively, redirecting all the demonic fury towards Yun Xiao.

    "You be quiet!" Yun Xiao red at her. "You talk of serving the nation and the people, yet you call these beasts honored guests? Have you forgotten the hatred of a million souls from the Divine Continent''s Martial Realm?"

    "What?" The crowd was even more baffled. Was he really talking back to the Empress?

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Just then, a silver figure suddenly burst into the first battlefield!

    "Who is that?" Both humans and demons strained their eyes to see.

    "Moon Fairy?" That silver figure had already transformed into a three-tailed fox demon!

    It dawned on everyone that since Midnight was not yet upon them, and considering the rules of the War of Immortals, those who were qualified for the grand melee still had a chance to enter. Although both sides had dered their withdrawal from the battle, the Divine Dawn Empress hadn''t removed their names from the list.

    The Eclipse Demon Emperor couldn''t force his way in with brute force, but Moon Fairy managed to slip through! This showcased the fairness, authority, and uracy of the battlefield''s formation, living up to its renowned reputation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>After barging in, the three-tailed fox demon''s eyes were blood-red, radiating murderous intent!

    Yun Xiao was in the midst of cooking when suddenly, a beastly shadow crashed towards him!

    <em>BOOM! </em>It was like being struck by a mountain. He spat out a mouthful of blood and flew back three hundred feet, crashing into the inner wall of the first battlefield, dazed and confused.

    "Who''s there?" Yun Xiao extended his hand, summoning a Water Mist Shield to block the raging three-tailed fox demon.

    <em>BANG1 </em>The fox demon transformed back into a silver-haired person, cradling the headless dog corpse. He knelt on the ground, tears streaming down like rain...

    "AHHH! MY LOVE¡­!" His demonic beauty and heart-wrenching sobs pulled at the heartstrings of the onlookers.

    A tragic love story between a fox and a hound seemed to unfold right before their eyes!

    "So it''s you, my defeated foe?" Yun Xiao said with a faint smile. "Why the tears? A fox longing for a dog, really?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Moon Fairy put down the dog corpse, and dozens of Deste Essence mes swirled around him. This disy of power was nearing that of the 108 Demon Saints. His blood-red eyes and overwhelming killing intent stirred the blood of the demons watching!

    "Moon Fairy is so strong!"

    "Quick, kill Yun Xiao!"

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>As Moon Fairy dashed forward, transforming back into the three-tailed fox demon, he spat out colorful mes, instantly quenching Yun Xiao''s fiveyer Water Mist Shield. His formidable physique once again broke through to confront Yun Xiao face to face!

    <em>KLANG </em>Sword and w collided, sparking thousands of fiery stars.

    <em>HUM! </em>Moon Fairy unleashed a hypnotic fox spell, and a burst of white mist suddenly engulfed Yun Xiao! Then, with a fierce flick of his tail, the fox''s tailshed onto Yun Xiao''s magic shield!

    With a loud explosion, Yun Xiao was sent flying again, crashing to the ground and rolling dozens of times. Not only was he covered in dust and grime, but the fox tail had also left bloody streaks across his body. He was not just in a sorry state but also seriously wounded.

    Yun Xiao got up, furious and humiliated. "You want a tragic love story, huh? I''ll give you one! You think a mere beast like you can vie for the title of humanity''s top Immortal against me?"

    In theirst encounter, Yun Xiao had brutally beaten Moon Fairy. This time, with more spectators, Moon Fairy was the one dominating! Seeing this, the frustrated demons finally found a release for their pent-up emotions, pounding their chests and roaring with excitement.

    "Yun Xiao is indeed strong, but Moon Fairy is stronger!"

    "What a pretense! I thought he had Divine Dawn''s abilities. Is this all he''s got?"

    "Such audacity! With just a bluff, he scared thousands of our Demon Continent''s talents from entering?"

    They had been suspicious at first, but when Moon Fairy exposed and broke through Yun Xiao''s facade, seeing the pot of stewed dog meat, their fury surged anew.

    "This kid''s bluff is exposed, and they still dare not enter the battlefield?"

    "Go help Moon Fairy, tear him apart!"

    Now, with Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy locked in a fierce battle, the demons were uncertain if Moon Fairy could secure a final victory.

    "Get in there! Midnight is almost upon us! Enter now, and you can be humanity''s top Immortal and Divine Dawn''s husband!"

    Excited and furious roars from the demons shook the Ascension Gate.

    "Seize the moment!" All demons turned their gaze toward the gate.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In a fit of rage, Angry Cauldron stepped forward and leaped into the Heavenly Gateway.

    "Stop!" the Gu Emperor''s eyes twitched.

    "To hell with stopping! If I die, so be it! I''m no coward!" Angry Cauldron bellowed, charging into the first battlefield. He had reached his breaking point! The opponent''s bluff was exposed, and yet, the restraint persisted? Daring to defy Gu Emperor himself was a clear sign that his limits had been repeatedly crossed!

    Madness ensued!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Starting with Angry Cauldron, the situation, once under the control of the Gu Emperor, spiraled wildly out of hand!

    "Gu Emperor, if thousands of us can''t beat one, then we deserve to die!" the paper doll woman dered solemnly before charging into the battlefield.

    The White Bone Spirit, Xue Qi, and all the other Demon Princes and Princesses joined the fray!

    "Father, I''m going too," the seventh princess of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire announced, following the Demon Continent''s talents as she leaped into the battle.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Thousands of participants, still holding War of Immortal jade tokens, driven by rage and racing against time, swarmed into the battlefield! There was no more holding back!

    At this point, not even the Gu Emperor could restrain these rampaging forces! Even if they couldn''t get close to Yun Xiao, just being there to witness the chaos was a thrill in itself!

    On the human side, due to the sudden turn of events and without orders from the Divine Dawn Empress, many talents with War of Immortals jade tokens missed their chance to join the battle!

    Time was of the essence!

    At least two thousand demon geniuses charged in!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As midnight arrived, the battlefield was sealed shut!

    A one-hour time limit! It was like a Gu breeding ground! Who would emerge as the Gu King? Many demons were left outside, faces filled with regret.

    Inside the battlefield, Yun Xiao stood up, covered in dust and grime, to face two thousand red-eyed talents from the Demon Continent. They sneered at Yun Xiao menacingly.

    Even if Yun Xiao was a fierce tiger, what fear did they have as two thousand hungry wolves? They were the future of the Demon Continent! Every direct lineage and bloodline of the demon races was represented here!

    Moon Fairynded before the two thousand talents, standing tall like a leader.

    "Hehehehe..." The two thousand Demon Continent geniuses looked at the dog corpse lying between them, theirughter growing more sinister by the second.

    One against two thousand? This scene sent a shiver down the spines of countless humans, stirring deep concerns in their hearts.

    "Did we overdo it...?" People''s hearts raced with anxiety for Yun Xiao.

    "As midnight arrives, the grand melee begins!" In this suffocating moment, the Divine Dawn Empress'' cold voice echoed across the battlefield. As her words fell, a ck light curtain suddenly enveloped the first battlefield.

    All anyone could see was a dark sphere! Inside, Yun Xiao and the two thousand demons werepletely obscured, even their sounds muffled.

    "Divine Dawn?" the Gu Emperor looked at her coldly.

    The Divine Dawn Empress, taken aback, exined, "An hour ago, I dered this grand melee as a ck Box Battle didn''t you know?"

    A ck Box Battle meant confining everyone in a space invisible from the outside, waiting for the time to end before opening it again. Like unveiling a mystery box! All for that moment of surprise!

    With the ck Box Battle initiated, even the Ascension Gate was temporarily closed.

    "A ck Box Battle?" the Gu Emperor remembered the announcement. But he had dered withdrawal from the battle, so he hadn''t paid much attention.

    Now, looking at Divine Dawn Empress and thinking back to everything that had transpired in thest hour, he stared at the dark, silent battlefield, sinking into deep worry. He had already guessed that the Divine Dawn Empress was Chen Xi! What else couldn''t he predict...?<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 203: Moon Fairy, What Are You Trying to Pull?

    Chapter 203: Moon Fairy, What Are You Trying to Pull?

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As the ck Box Battle kicked off, the entire War of Immortals battlefield was plunged into darkness. But in a jiffy, the eerie glow of the Destion Armor on those demons began to flicker, lighting up the battlefield with a kaleidoscope of colors, turning it into a sealed realm of every hue!

    Two thousand demons, each donned in demon armor for the convenience of constantly forging their flesh. These pieces of Destion Armor ranged from Star grade to Gxy grade, covering all bases.

    Take Moon Fairy, who had just shed with Yun Xiao. Whether in human form or as a three-tailed fox demon, his Destion Armor adapted to his shape, safeguarding his flesh and fending off magic power assaults! Some Destion Armor even shielded the entire body.

    Destion Armor infused with elements like water, fire, wind, thunder, frost, and ice surged on these two thousand demons. The glow they emitted, mixed with the blood-red eyes of the demons, turned the battlefield into a vicious and brutal scene straight out of a nightmare.

    The heavy breathing and growls of the demons encircled the young man in white like a nightmarish embrace.

    Their faces were grotesquely twisted, mostly resembling beastly visages with elongated hair, protruding fangs, and limbs transformed into sharp, treasure-like ws¡ªa testament to their lifelong dedication to body refinement!

    The ck Box Battle was a sealed battlefield, and the time limit was one hour!

    Yun Xiao''s bluff had been ''exposed'' by Moon Fairy. For these two thousand demons, the only mystery that remained was how they should toy with his life before finishing him off.

    Two thousand fierce beasts surrounding a piece of meat, there wasn''t enough to go around!

    In this most brutal moment, each demon wanted to be the first to strike. So, instinctively, their eyes turned to the three great resentment demons and Xue Qi, the son of the Red Lotus Demon Emperor. They were still not used to the rise of Moon Fairy.

    But before the demons could make their move, someone else beat them to the punch! From amidst the horde of demons, a young girl, merely twelve years old, stepped forward. Her eyes were vacant, her youthful face chillingly cold as if she''d crawled right out of theherworld, a little demon in the flesh.

    She was the seventh princess of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, the highest-ranked human in the betting odds, even surpassing Tian Lu.

    "Ghost Cultivator!" The demons recoiled in fear at the sight of her, their blood-red eyes flickering with dread. The seventh princess''s pale eyes zeroed in on Yun Xiao, her intent to kill rising like a tempest. Her five siblings had been wiped out by Yun Xiao in the Cycle Battle.

    "Though they were all good-for-nothings, it''s still not your ce to trample on my Violet Sky Immortal Empire! Yun Xiao, you don''t represent humankind!" Her voice was as cold as ice, her Late Saint Realm aura pulsing powerfully, surpassing even the Violet Sky Crown Prince by two whole stages!

    <em>HUM! </em>Her sacred power was a ghastly grey, a symbol of deathly power. This was the Ghost Dao as defined by the Divine Continent''s humankind, turning its practitioners into pariahs, hunted by all.

    Yet, as a princess of the top Immortal Empire, she brazenly practiced this forbidden art, proving that in the Divine Continent, there were no absolutews. Power trumped all.

    "Evil Dao, Forbidden Wraiths!" The Seventh Princess, ghastly as a wraith, was enveloped in a swirling grey mist. In that deathly fog, her pale eyes seemed to expand, growing asrge as fists, turning into veritable portals to hell.

    "Kikiki." Then, two pale, fiercely malevolent figures crawled out from those giant eyes, like ghostly spirits in white robes with flowing hair¡ªa sight so eerie that even the demons got the creeps!

    The entire battlefield was instantly shrouded in this sinister, baleful ghostly power. With this attack, the Seventh Princess wasn''t just fighting; she was contending for the title of humanity''s top Immortal!

    "Oooooh! OOOH!" As the two Forbidden Wraiths crawled out of her eyes, emitting mournful cries of ghostly anguish, they fixated on Yun Xiao.

    "Devour his soul first!" The Seventh Princess cackled ghoulishly, her child-like appearance creating and unsettling and disturbing contrast.

    In that instant, a sinisterly beautiful fox head materialized behind her. The silver fox opened its maw wide and chomped down ferociously! That bite enveloped the Seventh Princess''s giggling head. Herughter abruptly ceased, morphing into a scream of terror.

    The Seventh Princess tried to push the fox''s jaw open, her hands bulging with veins, but to no avail. In the silver fox''s eyes, there was nothing but profound indifference.

    <em>CRUCH! </em>With a fierce bite, the fox''s teeth pierced and tore off a head! Blood gushed like a fountain!

    <em>THUD! </em>The small, headless body stumbled, iling aimlessly, then copsed like a drunken mess, blood pouring onto the ground.

    <em>SPLAT! </em>The three-tailed fox demon spat out the blood-soaked head.

    "Why...?" The Seventh Princess managed to mouth those few words before the light faded from her eyes. She had died with open grievances!

    This sudden turn of events shocked the two thousand bloodthirsty demons, who stood agape, doused in a bucket of ice water, staring at the elegantly brutal three-tailed fox demon. Their gaze shifted to the tiny corpse, their faces nk with confusion.

    "Moon Fairy! What are you doing?!" Angry Cauldron, the dark-skinned, muscr demon, roared. His face was etched with cauldron patterns, his body taking on a metallic sheen.

    Moon Fairy sneered, disdainfully looking at the Seventh Princess''s body. "Taking revenge for Tian Lu. Our demon race can handle its own business! Who does she think she is to try and steal the spotlight? Does she even qualify? What''s her role here?"

    Indeed, the Seventh Princess was the only human who hade to kill Yun Xiao.

    At Moon Fairy''s words, the demons fell silent.

    "True, but the Violet Emperor is our Demon Continent''spdog. Having done this, how will we answer to him outside?" Bloody Wail, the son of the Red Lotus Demon Emperor, asked in an ethereal voice.

    "Right! This will push the Violet Emperor towards humankind!" Angry Cauldron added. He was already displeased with Moon Fairy.

    In the Demon Continent, the resentment demons reigned supreme!

    The lineage of beast demons was merely average, ranking below even the nt and Insect ns!

    The three great resentment demons had remained silent. So, how could Moon Fairy take it upon himself to kill an ally?

    "Angry Cauldron, do you even have a brain?" Moon Fairy scoffed. "Even if the Violet Emperor grovels to Divine Dawn, would they ept him? Once a dog, always tainted! His only options are to keep licking our boots or face death!"

    Continuing, Moon Fairy nced around at the other demons. "So, if we all keep quiet, it''ll be as if the Seventh Princess died at Yun Xiao''s hands. Anyone who bs is disregarding the Demon Continent''s interests and is a traitor. Got it?"

    The other demon was momentarily speechless.

    "Moon Fairy, you keep insulting dogs... Do you actually care about Tian Lu? Don''t you know the taboo of the beast n?" Ghost Marriage murmured from the crowd, leaving both Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy startled.

    This was typical human rhetoric, unexpectedly bizarre to the demons. Demons, unlike humans, had never known of traitors. The concept was too puzzling for them. Death was just death. Why fight for others? Ultimately, demons valued their lives lightly, indifferent to both death and glory.

    So even now, most demons still believed that Moon Fairy was simply vying to be the next ruler.

    "Heh, heh!" Ghost Marriage''s words left Moon Fairy speechless.

    Yun Xiao had been caught with his pants down! But so what? He just wanted to rack up more kills to ease the pressureter on. Suspicions be damned, it was time to fight!

    Before Moon Fairy could respond to Ghost Marriage, Yun Xiao initiated the attack.

    Group battle? This was Yun Xiao''s forte!

    As Moon Fairy and Angry Cauldron argued, Yun Xiao suddenly erupted. <em>HUM! </em>He stood on a six-foot Sovereign Sword, soaring into the sky above the battlefield!

    This was his mostvish day ever!

    Yun Xiao suddenly pulled out a handful of enhanced Heavenly Dao Sariras, stuffing the dark crystals into his mouth! These handy pills specially refined for the Creator Immortal transformed into sacred power by the Primordial Void Technique. Then, that power was immediately channeled through the Nine Heavens Star Meridians as he erupted with might!

    "Five Seeds of Creation here in total, and they''re all the fleshly body type. That means Moon Fairy can absorb them all!" Yun Xiao''s icy gaze swept across the battlefield. <em>BOOM! </em>His magic power surged. Though at the quality of the Saint Realm, its volume reached an unfathomable level,parable to the Late Saint Realm!

    <em>Elemental Scripture, Fire God''s Wrath!</em>

    Above in the sky, Yun Xiao thrust his hands forward, summoning waves of fire that roared skywards, forming eighteen crimson orbs of me! The battlefield seemed to have gained eighteen suns!

    The brilliance of the Fire God''s Wraths instantly overshadowed the glow of a thousand Destion Armor sets.

    "What''s this?" Lil Bone, the second resentment demon, cried out. His eyes flickering with ghostly fire, recognized the daoist spell. However, the Fire God''s Wrath was typically a single orb of fire, not eighteen!

    How could a cultivator''sprehension and execution in both sword techniques and daoist spells be so monstrous! Daoist spells, though weaker in singlebat, reigned supreme in battles involving many.

    Yun Xiao''s mastery of daoist spells made him an army unto himself!

    "I''ll send you to the eighteenyers of hell!" He didn''t give the demons or Moon Fairy a chance to argue, striking first, sowing chaos.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The eighteen fire orbs, like falling suns, erupted with deafening roars, hurtling towards the two thousand demons!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The orbs exploded, unleashing waves of crimson fire that rolled out like magma. Many demons couldn''t escape in time, crashing into each other, consumed by the furious mes, blown into bits, their remains charred and ckened!

    Eighteen massive explosions, mes reaching for the heavens!

    The demons roared and screamed, but the outside audience saw only flickers of light and heard not a sound.

    "This is draining!" Yun Xiao was pushing himself to the limits, the Fire God¡¯s Wrath taxing his magic power to its brink. Luckily, he had plenty of Heavenly Dao Sariras! Swiftly, he grabbed another handful of dark crystal beads and swallowed them. Then, exceeding his limits once again, he unleashed another daoist spell!

    Elemental Scripture, Mountain Upheaval!

    In Yun Xiao''s hands, the Grand Temple''s daoist spell was elevated to a level of righteousness and value it never knew before!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>As Yun Xiao executed his spell, invoking the Primordial Void Technique, the earth trembled fiercely. Waves of soil surged like angry seas, engulfing demons attempting to ascend to the skies to attack him, burying them in the ground!

    Then came the Golden World Domination and Frenzy nt, either sealing demons within unyielding gold, transforming them into gold statues, or entwining them in countless ck vines, violently tearing them to pieces.

    Even with the dispersed power of Yun Xiao''s widespread destructive spells, the demons below the Saint Realm struggled to escape unscathed.

    Of course, several demons, unaffected by the spells, closed in on Yun Xiao.

    "Kill him!"

    Yun Xiao''s attack was like a sledgehammer to the hearts of the demons.

    "How did we not see this terrifying battle prowess when he was fighting Moon Fairy alone?"

    Hundreds of demons in their true forms converged on Yun Xiao. Closebat was their forte! Before this, even more violent demon magics surged towards Yun Xiao.

    Facing this overwhelming counterattack, Yun Xiao, without even a nce, raised his hand.

    <em>WHOOSH WHOOSH WHOOSH! </em>Thirtyyers of Water Mist Shields enveloped him, impervious to pration. Ny water dragons swirled around him, devouring the demon magics and sting the demons away.

    "A monster?!" Many demons, having fought hundreds of battles, had never seen such an aberration in magic and swordy as Yun Xiao! He not only learned instantly but also unleashed destructive power that seemingly didn''t belong to the spells or techniques he wielded,pletely transforming their essence.

    "Fire, wind, water, earth, metal! Go,¡ªI mean Elemental Scripture, Unite!" Yun Xiao cried out. After repelling the demons, he swallowed another handful of Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>He felt like he was about to burst, his abdomen swelling like a frog, his handsome face puffing up. This indicated the immense magic power about to rupture his body! Thankfully, his Nine Dragons Dantian and Nine Heavens Star Meridians were resilient.

    "Run!" The demons, witnessing the amalgamation of five types of elements within this monstrous figure, fled in terror. Instinctual fear took over.

    "Elemental Scripture, Unite? What the fuck is that!?" The White Bone Spirit looked up, utterly baffled. It distinctly remembered that the Elemental Scripture had no such move!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 204: My Brothers, Kill!

    Chapter 204: My Brothers, Kill!

    "What the hell!?"

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Above the sky, the young man in white swelled up like a balloon, about to pop.

    "God damn!" someone eximed, "What''s his skin made out of! How has he not exploded yet?"

    A massive magic power sphere, over 300 meters across, erupted around him. Metal, wood, water, fire, and earth¡ªthe five elements shed with a thunderous roar at the heart of his being.

    Sparks flew from the golden mist, wood melded with the elements, water framed it all, the fire zed, and the earth added its weighty touch. No one, not even the ancient founders of the Grand Temple who conjured up the Elemental Scripture, could have foreseen such a terrifying transformation of their daoist spell. It was as if this one movepleted the whole scripture!

    "When did you cook up this trick? Never seen it before," Blue Star asked, eyes wide as saucers.

    "Just a spur-of-the-moment idea," Yun Xiao replied coolly.

    "..." Blue Star was speechless.

    As Yun Xiao channeled all his magic power into the elemental sphere, his swollen form finally shrank back to normal, still as handsome as ever. His eyes, deep as the heavens, nced at the demons below. With a casual flick of his finger, he set the sphere plummeting down.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The sphere crashed with such speed that it blotted out the sky with elemental power.

    "Run for the hills!" The talents of the Demon Continent felt the sphere''s terrifying might, their faces ghostly pale. They had no choice; this appeared to be Yun Xiao''s all-out attack. Without the haul from Ye Qingtian and the others, this battle would''ve been a real pickle.

    The demon talents wanted to flee, but where could they go in their own battlefield?

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The sphere hit the ground, the five elements bncing and then erupting in a cataclysmic explosion. The resulting wave of light instantly engulfed the entire battlefield.

    Even outside, the onlookers could hear the quake and see the brilliant shes.

    "What in zes is going on?" The spectators were going mad with curiosity, itching to see what was happening just beyond their sight.

    "Why''d they have to make it a ck Box Battle?" Everyone was in a state of panic!

    Thunderous booms resounded! The devastating onught reduced countless Demon Continent prodigies to mere carcasses, visible to the naked eye. It was so fierce that even fashioning them into Blood Crystal Sword Rings was a tough call.

    Fortunately, demon bones, usually the hardest and most intact, were spared.

    <em>PLOP PLOP PLOP! </em>One after another, these demon talents, in utter despair, plummeted into the abyss of theherworld. Wherever the elemental sphere wreaked havoc, mountains of corpses and seas of blood amassed.

    Yun Xiao''s aggressive opening onught had the two thousand demons bewildered and brains scrambled.

    Beneath the might of the elemental sphere, countless demons below the Demon Saint Realm perished. This efficiency in mowing down the ''small fry'' wasparable even to the Demon Emperor!

    Normally, even Demon Saints couldn''t achieve such a feat. The scene was utter chaos! Screams of agony, wails of sorrow, and roars of fury blended into a cacophony. In this moment of despair, something else plunged the demons into even deeper hopelessness.

    "What''s Moon Fairy doing?" The surviving demons looked in shock to see, amidst the fray, the three-tailed fox demon locked inbat with Angry Cauldron, one of the three great resentment demons!

    With Yun Xiao so formidable, they were still vying for dominance?

    "This fox demon''s a traitor! He lured us here!" Bloody Wail''s voice resonated among the demons, sending a chill down every spine.

    A human spy in the Demon Continent? Now, that was a rare sight!

    "This one man and one fox, do they think we''re easy pickings?" Lil Bone''s eyes zed with murderous fire.

    Yun Xiao''s recent magical outbursts had in thousands of Demon Continent talents, but those were mostly demons in the Mid or Late Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. The stronger demons, especially those in the Demon Saint Realm, were barely injured. Their fighting power was still fearsome.

    At this point, figuring out why Moon Fairy was a traitor was pointless.

    "Kill them!" the ghostly, chilling voice of Ghost Marriage echoed throughout.

    They still had ten Demon Princes and Princesses. At this moment, they split into two groups, each leading hundreds of demons¡ªone half to besiege Yun Xiao, and the other to besiege Moon Fairy!

    Ghost Marriage and Bloody Wail were targeting Yun Xiao!

    Lil Bone and Angry Cauldron were on Moon Fairy!

    The powerhouses were still in the game. But just as they got their bearings, an azure storm of Flying Swords descended from the sky!

    <em>Constetion ying Sword, Meteor Shower!</em>

    Its luminescence, infused with the essence of the Ten-Step Scale, rippled like a barracuda darting through the sea, changing directions hundreds of times. Each shift intensified its lethal force.

    <em>SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT! </em>In a blink, a hundred Wind Fire Tribtion demons had their eyes and brains burst open, copsing instantly!

    <em>KLANG! </em>Done with magic tricks, the white-robed youth grabbed his Heaven Burial Sword Soul. His robe fluttering, hended and red at the five Demon Princes and Princesses before him.

    Memories of the Sword Dao Monument''s enmity, years of oppression, and the suffering of countlessmon folk surged in Yun Xiao''s heart.

    A tidal wave of murderous intent gathered in his sword!

    <em>HUM HUM HUM! </em>On the three-foot azure sword, the Night March of a Hundred Ghosts demon magic of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor manifested as ny-nine eerie blood-red eyes, staring down these Demon Continent prodigies.

    The youth''s icy killing intent and courage to face a thousand enemies alone petrified these notoriously ferocious demons.

    "You and Moon Fairy killed Tian Lu, and you tricked us into this fight. Now you want to wipe out all our Demon Continent talents?" Ghost Marriage''s face was as expressionless as wood.

    "Correct!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "And why are you so confident?" Bloody Wail''s legs sprouted countless blood-colored roots, spreading across the battlefield.

    "My confidence?" Yun Xiao gazed at his sword, then at Moon Fairy. There, the three-tailed fox demon was still locked in battle with Angry Cauldron.

    Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy, a man and a fox, exchanged a nce and simultaneously dered, "Gifted by the heavens,manded by our ancestors, and wished by countless lives! To raise our human race and eradicate you demon ghosts, I, Yun Xiao, will not hesitate to die a thousand deaths!"

    Yun Xiao saying this was one thing, but Moon Fairy uttering the same words was like a mountain crushing the spirits of the demons.

    "What does this mean?" Blood Cry looked bewilderedly between Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy.

    One was human, the other a demon!

    But then, the paper effigy carried by Ghost Marriage underwent a startling transformation. Her usually still face suddenly twisted grotesquely. "Yun Xiao is Moon Fairy, and Moon Fairy is Yun Xiao!"

    These words, uttered with a chilling force, struck the gathered demons like thunder, shaking them to their cores.

    The rising stars of the Divine and Demon Continents, the same person?

    "Kong Ming was lured to his doom by his own act! We''ve been duped by one man!" Angry Cauldron realized, as if smacked by a revtion.

    "Wasn''t Moon Fairy raised by Lady Hua Lian?" Blood Wail''s voice trembled.

    "There''s only one exnation. Lady Hua Lian lied! Damn it!" Lil Bone growled.

    Even the Gu Emperor, with all his schemes, couldn''t have predicted such an extraordinary turn of events.

    One person ying two roles? Human or demon? Demon or human? Which was it? Though tales of possession were known, a single soul controlling both a human and a demon body was unheard of!

    "Forget it! If he''s not afraid to reveal himself, he must be sure we''ll all be dead within the hour!" Angry Cauldron''s face twisted grotesquely.

    All the demons shuddered! They couldn''t underestimate this monster anymore. He was a true monster! More monstrous than Divine Dawn!

    "Attack!!" The remaining talents of the Demon Continent roared, suppressing their shock for a desperate fight.

    Just as they cried out, Moon Fairy, ignoring the White Bone Spirit''s burning mes, lunged at Angry Cauldron!

    "You think to match me in strength?" Angry Cauldron sneered and morphed into his true form, a giant ck cauldron aze with dark fire. The cauldron''s eyes, red as blood, collided with the three-tailed fox demon!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Inside the cauldron, a massive ze of ck, deste fire roared to life!

    This was Angry Cauldron''s power, harnessing vast Deste Essence mes for his use, his body a reservoir of this untamed force!

    "Die!" With his iron-like body, Angry Cauldron mmed down onto Moon Fairy, pinning him to the ground, then spewed countless tongues of Deste Essence mes from the cauldron!

    "No matter what monster you are, under the mes, you''ll turn to ash!" Angry Cauldron''s attack halted the other demons, who could only wait as he attempted to incinerate Moon Fairy alive!

    The demons breathed a sigh of relief. But in the next instant, the blood-red eyes on Angry Cauldron trembled with unspeakable fear. A gaping maw appeared on the cauldron, emitting a scream of terror and agony!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The giant cauldron shook and struggled, but couldn''t move, as if glued to the ground.

    "What''s happening, Angry Cauldron?!" Lil Bone demanded with a snarl.

    "My Deste mes! It''s being devoured!" Angry Cauldron cried out in despair.

    "What?" The demons were stunned anew.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Angry Cauldron was flipped over, its once menacing form now dimmed. The next moment, a three-tailed fox demon, aze with endless fire, climbed out, standing atop the cauldron, gazing down at Lil Bone and the others with amanding air.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>As Angry Cauldron screamed hisst, his luminance faded, losing its mes. It became nothing more than a container. That so-called iron body was as fragile as tofu under Moon Fairy''s ws!

    <em>BANG! </em>Angry Cauldron, shattered and dead, perished in fear and confusion.

    "He can directly consume Deste mes..." For all the demons, this was a nightmaree to life! In an instant, the will to fight of the remaining Demon Continent prodigies chilled considerably!

    Moon Fairy, in both human and demon form, struck terror into their hearts! As a human, he was unparalleled in talent. As a demon, he was equally supreme. Such elegance and power shook the very souls of the demons.

    On the other side, Yun Xiao, in human form, wielded the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. Alone, with just his sword, he charged towards the hundreds of demon talents led by Ghost Marriage and Bloody Wail.

    "Brothers, let the ughter begin!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>From his embrace, Yun Xiao hurled a small ck beast.

    <em>HUM! </em>The beast, amidst swirling demon mist, transformed, growingrger with each crack and snap. An aura so deadly it sent shivers down every demon''s spine enveloped the battlefield.

    In the midst of the demonic maelstrom, the small ck beast morphed into a terrifying creature! Its body was covered in ck scales. Horns protruded from its head. Its eyes were a deep, mysterious blue. With strong limbs and sharp ws and teeth, it was like a perfect war machine.

    Most horrifyingly, it had a pair of crimson eyes on its chest and a gaping maw with teeth sharper and denser than a shark''s,plete with a barbed tongue!

    What kind of monster was this? The demons'' hearts twisted in fear!

    "Heh, heh, heh..." Yun Xiao, Moon Fairy, and the ck-scaled beast, like figures from a nightmare, plunged into the final battleground!

    Meanwhile, outside, millions of demons pondered in question.

    "Yun Xiao is just one person, how will our Demon Continent talents divide his body fairly?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 205: Battle Against the Heavens, Eternally Indestructible

    Chapter 205: Battle Against the Heavens, Eternally Indestructible

    "What the hell is that?" Bloody Wail caught a fleeting glimpse of the ck-scaled beast, his face turning a ghastly pale.

    "Itcks the aura of demons; not a demon, perhaps a different kind of beast," Ghost Marriage stated.

    No sooner had they spoken than Yun Xiao, along with a demon, and two beasts, plunged into the midst of the demon horde!

    In the distance, Moon Fairy, relying on his Chalk Flesh Armor enhanced by his Divine Destion Physique, resisted the demon magic and sharp ws with brute force. Like a true king of beasts, the three-tailed demon fox crushed tigers, leopards, and mammoth demons with a single swipe, creating a visually explosive impact!

    Though he appeared delicate, at his core, he was a berserker of flesh and blood,bined with his mind-bending demon magic, the contrast was at its peak.

    And the ck-scaled beast beside Yun Xiao? They were even simpler! It rampaged through, killing anything in its path!

    Having devoured the treasures from Ye Qingtian and his entourage, Red Moon and Blue Star secretly hoarded more for themselves, using them to recuperate. Now, they unleashed their restored base strength, sparingly using their Saint Stones, yet still capable of cutting a swathe through these Wind Fire Tribtion Realm demon geniuses!

    Demons carried riches too, and the ck-scaled beast was adept at plundering. With a bite, it would kill its prey, and with a precise flick of its tongue, it shattered the Pouch of Holding hidden in their crude armor, swallowing whatever odditiesy inside.

    In this manner, they grew stronger with every battle!

    Coupled with Yun Xiao''s relentless Flying Swords and endless daoist spells, they were truly three monsters!

    Witnessing this scene, the remaining Demon Princes and Princesses knew they had to step up to exhaust Yun Xiao with the talents of the Demon Continent!

    "This one''s loaded!" Blue Star''s azure eyes swept over the battlefield, locking onto the strongest resentment demon, Ghost Marriage, and charged through, shattering numerous demons along the way.

    Meanwhile, Moon Fairy was encircled by four Demon Princes and Princesses, led by Lil Bone, with over three hundred demon geniuses attacking from the outer ring!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The force of their demon magic shook the heavens, relentlessly breaking through Moon Fairy''s defenses and raining down upon him

    The White Bone Spirit surprisingly gathered the bones of the fallen demons around him, forming a gigantic demonic bone sphere with immense destructive power! He targeted Moon Fairy because, as a demon, he feared nothing except the Sword Soul of a Sword Cultivator!

    Yun Xiao wanted to swoop in and devour the White Bone Spirit, but he was surrounded by more than five hundred demon geniuses, even more than those around Moon Fairy!

    These demons were in a frenzy, their eyes bloodshot!

    They revealed their true forms¡ªinsects, snakes, birds, beasts, nts, and resentful spirits¡ªa bizarre assortment of creatures. Their myriad tactics were weird and wondrous, incessant and overwhelming, causing great trouble for Yun Xiao!

    He knew this battle wouldn''t be easy!

    "To ovee these unfathomable demon magics, there''s only one way¡ªcut through the chaos with a swift de, exterminating them with even greater speed!" Yun Xiao unleashed another elemental sphere, exploding all around and sting the attacking demons into bloody shreds. Then, gulping down a mouthful of enhanced Heavenly Dao Sariras, he stepped onto his Sovereign Sword and leaped into the air!

    <em>Constetion ying Sword, Fleeting Moon!</em>

    The art of the Sovereign Sword, man and sword as one!

    He transformed into a raging storm of sword energy, slicing through the demon horde. Where his Sword Aura and Sword Rings passed, more Wind Fire Tribtion Realm demons were ground into blood dust!

    <em>POP POP POP! </em>Yun Xiao''s Water Mist Shields were being continuously destroyed by stray attacks, the impact rocking him to the core.

    In terms of physical strength, Yun Xiao''s true body was actually weaker, so he had to rely on magic shields for protection and remain utterly focused!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As Yun Xiao led the charge with Fleeting Moon, his six-foot Sovereign Sword crushed through the masses like surfing on a sea of blood, leaving a trail of severed limbs and broken bodies!

    The final strike bent the sword! With a flick of its tip, the giant azure sword swung horizontally, its sharp edge slicing off a Demon Prince''s head as it turned!

    A headless monkey corpse spurted blood from its severed neck, gushing forth like a fountain.

    <em>PSHT PSHT PSHT! </em>In that instant, the ground beneath burst forth with countless blood-red vines!

    These vines were peculiar, resembling elongated lotus roots or segmented arms, numbering in the tens of thousands. With their blood-red poisonous thorns, they formed a sky full of bloody illusions,shing towards Yun Xiao.

    "Son of the Red Lotus?!" Yun Xiao dispelled the surrounding demon magics and cut down several sword demons rushing at him. The onught of these blood-red vines posed another lethal threat.

    This was Blood Wail''s demon magic, Blood Lotus Tomb, a lethal attack for any creature of flesh and blood. Once ensnared, one''s essence would be devouredpletely!

    Though young, Bloody Wail''s true form, a lotus hidden underground, bore countless skeletal heads.

    To themon folk, this demon was even more terrifying than the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor!

    While the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor merely sapped souls painlessly, the Blood Lotus gruesomely devoured its victims alive!

    Bloody Wail was ranked fourth on the betting odds! He was at the Late Demon Saint Realm! He wasparable to the average Demon Saint! He didn''t rank among the 108 Demon Saints simply because he was too young. In addition, he didn''t need such titles yet. His future was to be a Demon Emperor!

    This was precisely why the Demon Continent valued these Demon Princes and Princesses so highly. Along with the three great resentment demons, Tian Lu, and previously Moon Fairy¡­ the Demon Continent was guaranteed to have at least six Demon Emperors in the next generation!

    Although the Divine Continent boasted six human Emperors, only the Divine Dawn Empress and the Violet Emperor truly matched the Demon Emperors. The others weren''t much different from Ye Qingtian.

    Now, with Angry Cauldron and Tian Lu gone and Moon Fairy switching sides, the future of the Demon Continent was halved!

    "The other half starts with you!" Yun Xiao locked his gaze on Bloody Wail, gripping his three-foot azure de, plummeting from the sky like a! This was a sword technique descending from the heavens!

    It was the fourth sword of the Constetion ying Sword Fall!

    <em>HUM! </em>d in white, Yun Xiao soared, bing a pale sword-shaped celestial body at the moment of his strike! This sword illuminated the entire field in an instant, with over two hundredyers of Sword Aura creating a storm, entwining the four great demon magics of water, blood, wind, and thunder!

    Suddenly, ny-nine crimson eyes appeared in the sky!

    In the center of these ny-nine blood-soul eyes, Yun Xiao and his Heaven Burial Sword Soul became the final eye of the Night March of a Hundred Ghosts! This eye, formed from the Sword Aura storm, shone like a brilliant in the heavens, thunderously plummeting down!

    "Blood Wail, run!" Before many demons could even utter these three words, Yun Xiao''s sword beam had already pierced deep underground!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ground shattered thunderously, a maelstrom of sand and dust arose, engulfing the sky in smoke and debris!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Countless sword rays surged from the ground, chasing and shredding the blood-red vines into dust!

    Deep underground, a mboyant blood lotus exploded into a mist of blood. From its core, a twisted face emerged, snarling, "My death matters not! Your people of the Divine Continent will join me in the afterlife, bursting the paths to the underworld!"

    As its words fell, Yun Xiao''s Fall, descending from the heavens, struck the blood lotus! The sword beam burst forth, shattering the blood lotus into countless bloody petals, roots, and leaves!

    "Trying to escape?" Yun Xiao sheathed his sword and extended his hand, summoning countless phoenixes from his palm, soaring upwards!

    <em>HUM HUM HUM! </em>Each phoenix swooped down on a fragment of the blood lotus, incinerating every piece into nothingness!

    This was one of the Grand Temple''s top daoist spells, known as Thousand Mountain Phoenix!

    Bloody Wail''s cries echoed pitifully; no matter how strong, it was obliteratedpletely!

    With hundreds of daoist spells on hand, Yun Xiao''s arsenal was unrivaled in the Heavenly Realm.

    Having in Bloody Wail, hundreds of demons seized the chance to attack. But Yun Xiao stomped his foot, raising a wave of soil that buried him, blocking countless fatal strikes!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The next instant, Yun Xiao burst forth from another patch ofnd! He emerged right beside Moon Fairy!

    <em>RUMBLE! </em>Moon Fairy had just shattered a white bone behemoth, its remains crashing in front of Yun Xiao!

    The behemoth sneered, its shattered body reassembling, evidently growing evenrger!

    Just then, Yun Xiao struck from behind, his Flying Sword piercing through the gaps in the bones, hitting the heart-like core of the behemoth!

    That was the essence of the resentful bone!

    The Heaven Burial Sword Soul prated deep into the bone!

    The rank two resentment demon, Lil Bone, let out a heart-wrenching scream!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Moon Fairy, a blur of white, repelled the surrounding demons attacking the bone behemoth. Meanwhile, Yun Xiao plunged into the bone behemoth''s body, grasping the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and thrusting fiercely!

    "Ugh!" Lil Bone trembled, struggled, and wailed! For him, a Sword Cultivator was a living nightmare! And now, that nightmare had be reality. It was like the marrow of his bones were being sucked out!

    "Save... save..."

    <em>BOOM! </em>Lil Bone was pinned down under Yun Xiao''s foot, crumpling to the ground!

    And those demons around, with their bloodshot eyes, charged fiercely but met their demise under Moon Fairy''s ws, unable to even distract Yun Xiao!

    Lil Bone had gathered so many demonic bones, saving Yun Xiao the trouble. In a short time, each bone, once brimming with demonic energy, dimmed.

    Yun Xiao''s Sword Aura grew steadily! These bones from the Demon Continent''s geniuses, although fresh, were of high quality. Due to their lineage, they added a substantial amount to his Sword Aura.

    "Demon... Demon Continent... our race... battles against the heavens, eternally indestructible..." As Lil Bone murmured these words, the ghostly fire in his eyes finally dimmed.

    <em>CRASH! </em>The thousands of bones Lil Bone had gathered crumbled into dust.

    And amidst this cloud of dust, Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul''s aurayers surged to over four hundred! Its hardness now surpassed even Gxy grade magic treasures!

    "Bloody Wail and Lil Bone are dead too!"

    "Of the ten Demon Princes and Princesses, only Ghost Marriage remains..."

    The surviving talents of the Demon Continent saw this and felt their hearts nearly shatter, their demonic blood boiling over.

    In their eyes, looking at Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy, deep fear and despair had set in.

    But demons will be demons! Even in such terror, their inherent ferocity and indifference to death could not be suppressed. They still screamed and charged at Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy, their blood-red eyes filled with brutality and undying hatred.

    "Kill! Kill!" They had no other choice but to gamble on Yun Xiao exhausting his strength and dying! They couldn''t imagine the pain and despair the Demon Continent''s elders and strong ones would feel if they saw them ughtered when the battlefield opened!

    For them, the fear of Moon Fairy continuing to lurk in the Demon Continent was greater. Who knew what tricks Moon Fairy could still pull off?

    However, with Ghost Marriage being the only Demon Saint left alive, these remaining demons posed little threat to Yun Xiao, a monstrous warrior bolstered by Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    Even his Moon Fairy body double was getting tired!

    "It''s almost over!" Killing to this extent, even Yun Xiao had be numb! Undoubtedly, his physical exhaustion had reached its limit! The relentless fighting spirit of these Demon Continent geniuses also exerted a certain pressure on him!

    They were just too fearless in death! He could only numbly kill! Kill until his arms were weak! In the end, he was drenched in blood, even his hair was dyed crimson! Beneath him, not a single intact demon corpse remained!

    Looking around, the entire battlefield was a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Just then, the strongest resentment demon, Ghost Marriage, seemed to have fallen too.

    The ck-scaled beast didn''t fight it one-on-one; they too were besieged, so it took until now to finish off Ghost Marriage and hundreds of demons, greatly relieving Yun Xiao''s burden!

    "This thing sure had a heavy grudge!" Transforming back into a small ck beast, it returned to Yun Xiao''s embrace, stillining about Ghost Marriage.

    "I''m exhausted!" Red Moon said with its tongue lolling out.

    "Is itpletely dead?"

    Yun Xiao looked towards where Ghost Marriage had fallen, a little disappointed that he hadn''t personally fought this strongest talent of the Demon Continent. For some reason, he suddenly felt uneasy!

    "Hmm, not dead yet?" Blue Star was startled, joining Yun Xiao in scrutinizing the spot!

    It was certain, all two thousand demons were dead! Including the ones with strong vitality like Lil Bone, Bloody Wail, and Angry Cauldron, Yun Xiao had double-checked their deaths! But Ghost Marriage...

    <em>BANG! </em>Yun Xiao was startled to see the ''corpse'' move again!

    "Truly the strongest resentful demon, the future overlord of the Demon Continent!" Yun Xiao frowned. It seemed the biggest trouble of the day was yet to be resolved!

    Fortunately, there was still plenty of time! Under the watchful eyes of Yun Xiao, Moon Fairy, and the little ck beast, Ghost Marriage finally stood up.

    <em>BANG! </em>The paper woman moved. She unsped her arms from around the neck of the gaunt, pale young man and descended from his back.

    The moment she stood on the ground, the pale young man copsed rigidly, his eyes rolling back, skin turning violet, his body''s rich demonic aura dissipating!

    This young man was unmistakably a human! Previously concealed by the demonic aura, Yun Xiao hadpletely thought he was part of the demons. But now, only the eerie paper woman remained!

    She stood atop the mountain of corpses and sea of blood, slowly lifting her head, her hollow gaze hauntingly fixing on Yun Xiao.

    The scene was indescribably eerie. Her white paper eyes suddenly began to weep, emitting a soft, wailing cry. This cry, atst, sounded like a woman''s. Before, her voice was male, speaking through the young man''s corpse.

    "In love, if it endures through time, what does it matter if it''s day by day or night by night..." She wept and wailed to Yun Xiao. Her voice was soft and mournful, bringing tears to the listener''s eyes, weighing heavily on their hearts.

    Yun Xiao felt a strange sense of familiarity.

    "Show your true face," hemanded, gripping his three-foot azure de, his gaze stern and murderous.

    The paper woman trembled, her in paper face somehow conveying a heart-wrenching sorrow. She reached out a trembling finger, touching her own eyes, pushing into the sockets, tearing the paper figure apart!

    The broken face slowly opened its mouth, whispering, "Junior Brother Yun..."

 Chapter 206: A Girl Named Xiao Qian

    Chapter 206: A Girl Named Xiao Qian

    After her scream, the paper woman suddenly burst into tears, ripping her face open in a fit of despair! The tear in the white paper extended to her belly, revealing streaks of crimson beneath.

    <em>RIP! </em>The entire sheet of paper tore apart. Amidst a haze of red mist, a tearful woman emerged, dressed in a bride''s vibrant red, stepping out from the paper. Her gaze was haunting as she looked at Yun Xiao, her sighs filled with a deep, aching sorrow that could shatter hearts.

    "Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao''s eyes trembled, instantly reddening.

    "Big Lanterns Zhao?" Blue Star peeked out and quipped, "Zhao your sister! Thatdy''s figure is even more exaggerated than your fucking Senior Sister Zhao! This is clearly a figment of your wild imagination! Boy, the desires in the depths of your heart are truly boundless!"

    "Perhaps he''scking motherly love!" Red Moon chimed in smartly.

    Yun Xiao almost choked on his own blood! These two clowns hadpletely shattered the eerie atmosphere.

    However, this embarrassment indeed snapped Yun Xiao out of the enchantment. His eyes hardened, a murderous intent rising again, he said coldly, "You dare to pry into my mind, do you wish for a more miserable death?"

    It must be said, this vengeful spirit now looked almost indistinguishable from a human. But the aura of resentment and demonic energy was too intense!

    Dressed in dazzling red, her bare feet treaded a path stained with blood. Wherever she went, the souls of demons and monsters clung to her skirt, unable to disperse.

    Two thousand demonic souls adorned her dress with even more vivid colors, making her appearance all the more enchanting. Her red lips, graceful neck, and figure were captivating.

    But her demonic aura alone surpassed that of any Demon Prince or Princess! The resentment of two thousand dead demons had created her current form. Their fierce faces appeared on her dress, grinning wickedly at Yun Xiao.

    "In fact..." the woman spoke in Zhao Xuanran''s voice, her words floating softly, "I am a demon born in the Divine Continent."

    "So what?" Yun Xiao replied, his voice icy.

    "In my previous life, I was human, a woman." She lowered her head slightly, tears of blood welling in her eyes. It was a genuine sorrow. She''d been a real human woman! In death, her resentment transformed her into the most powerful demon genius of the Demon Continent.

    Yun Xiao fell silent.

    "Do you know about ghost marriages?" the woman asked, lifting her head to gaze at him tragically.

    "I do." Yun Xiao nodded slowly.

    "My parents took money and forced me to marry a dead man. I was just fifteen, buried alive with his corpse."

    She turned to look at the young man''s decaying body. In her eyes shed the despair and agony of her final moments¡ªburied alive, trapped in a closed space, with a corpse, waiting for death...

    Her parents had taken the money...

    "I died, but my hatred and resentment remained trapped in that coffin for hundreds, thousands of years. No one saved me, no one freed me. Until one day, the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor took me away." She lifted her head slightly, a flicker of color in her blood-soaked eyes.

    "So what?" Yun Xiao inhaled deeply, his voice echoing with conviction.

    "I, like you, consider myself a human at heart, but I loathe humanity! I despise them! This vast mortal world is the greatest demon of all! Guarding this so-called human race with your sword, do you have any idea how much darkness, brutality, and distortion lurks in their bones? Have you seen the mortal world? Do you know how many suffer the same fate as you did in death?

    "You always say demons are cruel, but they simply follow thew of the jungle. Tigers don''t eat their cubs, but humans, iming moral superiority,mit far worse deeds than any demon..."

    The woman approached Yun Xiao, her blood-red mist engulfing him.

    "Go on," Yun Xiao said, gazing steadily at her.

    Sobbing, the woman continued, "Take the Blood Lotus, for instance. Born to devour humans, it has consumed countless. Yet, in this mortal world, who doesn''t eat lotus roots? Why is it only permissible for humans to eat lotus, but not for the lotus to eat humans? Is there really a distinction between good and evil when all beingspete for survival? The Demon Emperors cage human souls, but don''t the nobles of the human world keep peacocks caged, treating them as ythings, delighting in their disy?"

    At this, she gently took Yun Xiao''s hand, her voice filled withment, "Yun Xiao, what''s the point of protecting such a treacherous humanity, such an ugly human race with your life? If you win, they''ll worship you, but if you lose, they''ll trample on you and curse you in history! But the Demon Continent will always honor the warrior. Even if we die here today, we''ll be eternal heroes of the Demon Continent!"

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao suddenly smiled, his gaze unwavering and cold, unshaken by the woman''s words.

    "The thing is, did I ever say demons are evil and humans are good?" Yun Xiao stared at her intensely. "Humans eating lotus, lotus eating humans, there''s nothing wrong with either! Our battle today, neither you nor I are wrong! Everyone and everything in this world has its own standpoint! The human race gave me life and identity, a bloodline imprint. That''s my standpoint. The Demon Continent gave you rebirth, that''s your standpoint. Fighting for our standpoints, there''s nothing wrong with that! Marking you as evil from the human perspective is also not wrong!"

    With these words, Yun Xiao released her hand, his voice icy. "You demons of the Demon Continent are powerful, warlike, and brave! I despise and hate you! But deep down, I respect you as adversaries! This respect doesn''t stop me from wishing for yourplete annihtion!"

    Imprinted on him were sixteen years of memories from the Cloud Nation. He was a sovereign, a protector of his people, and his hatred for demons wasn''t formed overnight!

    Everyone had their own memories that shaped them.

    Yun Xiao didn''t deny that humans wereplex creatures, and the world inevitably harbored many vile human criminals without a shred of decency. But in his sixteen years, what he''d witnessed more were the ordinary folks, those abiding by thew, yearning for a peaceful life.

    He acknowledged that those whomitted crimes should face death. But that hatred wouldn''t be redirected at others.

    The woman''s resentment was immense, hating all of humanity, fighting for demons, bing a demon herself... For her, this was all justified!

    It was also right for Yun Xiao to stand against her. She couldn''t make Yun Xiao abandon his beliefs.

    "From your perspective, eating humans is natural. From the human perspective, annihting your Demon Continent is equally justified. The truly despicable are those who abandon their own standpoint! Humans can eat lotus, lotus can eat humans, but humans shouldn''t aid the lotus in devouring their own kind!"

    That was why people like Ye Qingtian and Violet Emperor were so detestable.

    "I am human! My destiny is intertwined with humanity. My parents, my ancestors, were all human. I fight for humanity!

    "To be born human and then sympathize with demons, to justify their actions, is a betrayal worthy of death! Isn''t that dishonoring our ancestors?"

    If your ancestors were killed by demons, and still, you speak of understanding and respecting demons... Is that honoring your forebears? In chaotic times, sentimental fools were the first to be eliminated! They didn''t worry about dishonoring ancestors, for they had none. Before preaching about universal love, one should first look in the mirror and understand their true nature.

    "In the end, facts prove that there are more good people than evil in the human world, while the Demon Continent breeds mostly viins!"

    With humanity as his standpoint, ying demons was his duty! Those who, being human, sided with demons, ended up like Ye Qingtian, eventually kneeling before the Sword Dao Monument!

    Yun Xiao had only one belief in his heart! No matter what, as long as one sided with demons, human or not, he only cared about killing, not burying! There was no other way!

    The Cloud Nation might be small, but generation after generation of the Yun Family had served the country and its people. Even with his exceptional abilities, Yun Xiao dared not forget the teachings of his parents, and the legacy of his ancestors!

    From the Cloud Nation''s imperial capital to the battlefield of the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm, he fought only for his people!

    After saying all this, his gaze towards the woman, who took on the appearance of his beloved Zhao Xuanran, turned utterly cold and deadly!

    "Well said!" The woman cried andughed simultaneously, and suddenly, from inches away, she extended her hand, swirling up the resentment of a thousand demons, lunging at Yun Xiao''s face!

    Her fingernails, three inches long, were blood-red, sharp, and as lethal as swords. In a deadly close encounter with the demon, Yun Xiao faced the lethal ws poised to pierce his skull!

    Suddenly, behind Yun Xiao, the three-tailed demon fox transformed into a white mist and surged into his body. Two forces united! The Primordial Void Techniquebined with the Divine Destion Physique, unleashing immense bone and fleshly strength upon Yun Xiao!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The woman''s scarlet ws struck at Yun Xiao''s jaw but only sparked off him, barely prating his skin.

    "How can a human possess such a body..." The woman''s eyes widened in disbelief. With his martial and sword skills, wasn''t this the perfectbat form? The demonic power of the Divine Destion Physique and the magic power of the Primordial Void Technique melded wlessly, creating a dual-natured force!

    <em>SLASH! </em>Yun Xiao struck with his sword at close range!

    The woman''s ws had failed to kill him instantly, but the 400+yer Sword Aura from his Heaven Burial Sword Soul instantly pierced her throat!

    <em>HUM! </em>Yun Xiao flicked his wrist, and the Sword Aura transformed into a flower, shredding the woman into a bloody mist!

    At the tip of Yun Xiao''s sword sat the soul of a fifteen-year-old gaunt girl, crying in agony. This was the girl who had been buried alive. Her pain and sorrow were evident in her empty eyes.

    "What''s your name?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Xiao Qian," the gaunt girl said through her tears. Her eyes were empty, perhaps from shedding too many tears, leaving no eyes behind.

    "Be reincarnated. I wish you luck, to be born into a wealthy family with loving parents in your next life," Yun Xiao said hoarsely.

    "Mhm..." Xiao Qian wailed.

    "If I ever conquer the Demon Continent, I''ll ensure the Immortal Empires rectify the mortal world, strengthen thews of the Divine Continent, punish the evildoers harshly, and lessen such tragedies," Yun Xiao promised solemnly.

    "Thank you¡­" Xiao Qian finally stopped crying. She looked up at Yun Xiao, waved goodbye, and said, "From a human''s perspective, you are a good person."

    With that, her soul dissipated into nothingness...

    Yun Xiao''s sword hung in the air, not lowering for a long time.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 207: Divine Continents Number One Sword!

    Chapter 207: Divine Continent''s Number One Sword!

    "You''ve struck gold!" Red Moon hollered with excitement, shattering the tranquility of the battlefield.

    Yun Xiao, too, emerged from his musings on the mortal world and human nature. "True, humans have their ws, but that''s no reason for me to abandon my kin or twist my heart."

    If his home and people werecking, it was his responsibility to bring about change!

    "Bluey, will I eventually be someone else? A different kind of person?" Yun Xiao asked, his eyes deep with thought.

    "Someone else? What kind of person?" Blue Star said, cocking an eyebrow.

    "One without sorrow or joy, without love or hate, indifferent to everything, without boundaries, solely focused on rebuilding the Seed of Creation¡­" Yun Xiao replied calmly.

    "Isn''t that just like the old Creator? A creation machine, what''s the fun in that? Being human is much more interesting! At least we have passions and desires!" Blue Star said.

    "Right, right! A human with greed, wrath, foolishness, and lust¡ªespecially thatst one!" Red Moon grinned widely,ughing heartily.

    "Really? Did you find the old Creator boring when you were with him?" Yun Xiao asked with a peculiar expression.

    "It''s been too long; I''ve forgotten! I only remember he might not speak a word in a million years," Blue Star said, looking down, a touch of sadness in its voice.

    "That does sound pretty dull. If he were the protagonist, our story would have no dialogue," Yun Xiao chuckled, shaking his head.

    "He is you, and you are him. Everything changes, and so have you," Blue Star remarked thoughtfully.

    "Is that so?"

    They were certain, but Yun Xiao didn''t feel the same. He felt nothing of the Immortal of Creation, only memories from his sixteen years in the Cloud Nation.

    "Enough talk, let''s make a fortune first!" Yun Xiao stretched out his hands, and slowly, a body double emerged from him. That double was a silver fox! It gradually pulled itself out of Yun Xiao, condensing into a beautiful and cold young man!

    After cultivating the Divine Destion Physique, Moon Fairy''s appearance and aura kept improving as well. This eerie duplicate stood beside the real Yun Xiao, creating a perfectbination.

    Without a word, both the original and his body double started busying themselves.

    The original absorbed the demon bones, using the Soul Ignition Art to refine the remains of the demons into Blood Crystal Sword Rings. The double extracted the Deste Essence from their Wild Armors, devouring it all.

    This was surely Moon Fairy''s greatest moment of fortune! These two thousand talents from the Demon Continent nearly carried a third of the continent''s top grade Deste Essence with them.

    Wind, fire, water, earth, thunder, blood, light, darkness, ice, metal, wood¡ªevery imaginable attribute of Deste Essence was present, promising to forge the Moon Fairy''s Divine Destion Physique into the strongest of all, epassing every attribute.

    The foundation of the Divine Destion Physique was alreadyid by Moon Fairy.

    Moreover, the Demon Princes and Princesses like Bloody Wail possessed Dao Seed Talents bestowed by the Seed of Creation rain.

    Five kinds of fleshly talents all merged into Moon Fairy''s body. Each one was stronger than the Chalk Flesh Armor he''d gotten from the Peacock Prince. Now, his three-tailed fox form had undergone aplete transformation, bing the Demon Continent''s most elite bloodline!

    For example, the Dao Seed Talent of Bloody Wail, Blood Sacrifice Life Origin, provided enough vitality to regrow limbs. With the absorption of this fleshly talent, Moon Fairy was granted rapid regeneration self-healing abilities. Not only had he be tougher, but he''d also be much harder to kill!

    By now, the body double had surpassed the original in the number of Seeds of Creation absorbed.

    Yun Xiao wasn''t bothered by this. He''de to appreciate the convenience of fusing back together and bing one in the recent battle. A stronger Moon Fairy meant a stronger him.

    It didn''t matter that Yun Xiao''s original body wasn''t as tough. He had an arsenal of hundreds of all-epassing daoist spells, and with Blue Star and Red Moon by his side, survival was almost guaranteed.

    "You n to refine all two thousand demons into Blood Crystal Sword Rings?" Blue Star asked, eyes wide.

    "Of course. If I''ve already absorbed most of their bones, why waste the Sword Rings? War''sing, and I need to stock up for my fellow Sword Cultivators," Yun Xiao said, forging a Sword Ring with each step through the sea of corpses.

    "Tsk tsk, just imagine the look on the faces of those Demon Emperors and Demon Saints when this battlefield opens back up, and all they find are two thousand Blood Crystal Sword Rings. The shock!" Blue Star grinned in anticipation.

    The climax of the ck Box Battley in the moment the gates opened!

    Even the Divine Dawn Empress had ns to contain the chaos at that critical moment.

    Yun Xiao looked up at the pitch-ck sky of the battlefield and let out a coldugh.

    "Just waiting for the gates to open for a critical hit."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the battlefield, an hour of deathly silence had everyone, human and demon alike, itching with impatience and anxiety.

    Many guests from the Demon Continent and officials from the six Immortal Empire had long left their seats at the Ascension Gate.

    High above, the jade-faced Violet Emperor stood in the wind, his robe billowing majestically, embodying the grace of an Immortal.

    Behind him stood a man in a ck hat. He was Sword Saint Yu Qian of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, equal in renown to Sword Saint Sun and known as the Divine Continent''s Number One Sword for his youth and fame.

    Right now, the two men watched the motionless great ck sphere with enigmatic expressions.

    "For the past half hour, there''s been no movement. Seems the oue was decided long ago," the Violet Emperor spoke with an elegant voice.

    "Hested half an hour. That''s enough to get him into the human annals as a hero of the Divine Continent. Knowing the ways of the Heavenly Realm, they might even erect a monument in his honor," Sword Saint Yu Qian said coolly.

    "It''s impossible now." The Violet Emperor gazed into the distance, a slight smile curling at his lips. "In a few days, the Heavenly Realm will belong to the Demon Continent."

    "True. The Demon Emperors of the Demon Continent have long coveted this ce. And now, this strongest generation is about to realize their dream," Sword Saint Yu Qian said, a hint of schadenfreude in his voice.

    "Five Demon Emperors in one generation, even if one falls, the next will surely have at least six. Meanwhile, the Divine Continent struggles to produce even one true Emperor. How can wepare?" The Violet Emperor shook his head.

    "Thew of the jungle, the ultimate truth! Choosing the right side is the act of a wise lord. Although the Divine Continent will suffer, at least Violet Sky will survive." Sword Saint Yu Qian bowed to the Violet Emperor. "Your Majesty''s courage and wisdom will be remembered in the history of Violet Sky!"

    "Hmm." The Violet Emperor looked indifferently towards the Demon Continent guests. "Even for me, handling two thousand Demon Continent talents within an hour in the battlefield would be a challenge. These three Demon Emperors are being cautious."

    The Violet Emperor also knew Yun Xiao was formidable, constantly adjusting his expectations. But it was impossible for Yun Xiao to go against the heavens!

    "The stronger the demon, the more profound they are, unlike the others..."

    Sword Saint Yu Qian nced down. The millions of demons on the right had been shouting, roaring, and bellowing for nearly an hour, yet they continued, endlessly energetic.

    "Dismember! Dismember!"

    They were all excitedly awaiting the reveal of Yun Xiao''s demise!

    "You think, which of our princes will marry the beautiful Divine Dawn?

    "Hope thedies are sensible enough to let the men take the lead! I want to see Divine Dawn married into the Demon Continent!"

    They alternated their gaze between the Ascension Board and the dark sphere-like battlefield, restless and pacing in circles.

    On the left, the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm looked on with somber, heavy expressions.

    Millions of soldiers from the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, unnoticed until now, had appeared at the forefront of the crowd, silently setting up their formation. Meanwhile, the elderly, women, and children among the crowd had mostly retreated within the hour.

    The two sides, one on the left and the other on the right, were like oil and water¡ªpletely ipatible!

    On the Ascension tform, the Divine Dawn Empress and the Emperors of the other four Immortal Empires, along with various officials, bore grave expressions.

    Interestingly, the expressions of the three great Demon Emperors on the right were even graver! Especially the Gu Emperor whose countenance had turned as dark as storm clouds, ever since the battlefield fell silent half an hour ago.

    <em>THUMP THUMP THUMP!</em>

    As time neared its end, the heartbeats of millions quickened!

    Even the demons ceased their howling!

    It seemed as if all of the Heavenly Realm resonated only with the sound of beating hearts.

    "The War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm is about to conclude!" the Divine Dawn Empress announced majestically, sweeping across the realm and causing countless humans and demons to hold their breaths.

    The millions of demons, with bloodshot eyes wide and teeth bared, stared intently at the dark sphere in the center.

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!" they roared, unable to contain their frenzy.

    A countdown began.

    "Three!"

    "Two!"

    "One!"

    And in that instant, as time ran out, the dark hemisphere of the battlefield shattered into ck luminescence and dispersed.

    For a moment, millions of eyeballs nearly popped out of their sockets in anticipation!

    "Uh..." As the scene within the battlefield revealed itself, nearly everyone was stunned.

    The imagined mountains of corpses and seas of blood were nowhere to be found! The ground was churned up, a mess indeed... but there was virtually no blood or bodies!

    It was unsettlingly clean!

    Aside from the dirt, there were only two focal points left in the vast battlefield.

    The first was Yun Xiao, the youth who had died a million times over in the minds of the demons. He stood firmly on the battlefield, wielding an azure Sword Soul.

    Beneath this azure Sword Soul, knelt a silver-haired man, covered in blood. His body was riddled with no less than ny-nine gaping wounds, each piercing through him.

    His face was ashen, barely clinging to life, teetering on the brink of death. He was none other than Moon Fairy!

    And Yun Xiao, at this moment, had Moon Fairy underfoot, pressing the azure Sword Soul against the back of the Moon Fairy''s head.

    On this azure Sword Soul, it was clear to see, there were definitely more than five hundredyers of Sword Aura¡ªa number that made the beings of the Demon Continent shudder!

    Anyone who could forge 500yers of Sword Aura was a nightmare in the minds of demons, likely a caliber of Sword Cultivator only seen in the ancient eras!

    Then there was the second focal point! This point was a tant critical hit! Two thousand Blood Crystal Sword Rings, piled up into a small blood-red mountain, struck the eyes of the masses

    A demon soul was imprisoned within each Blood Crystal Sword Ring!

    Wailing souls like Lil Bone, Bloody Wail, Angry Cauldron, and others, still howled pitifully within. The cries of two thousand Demon Continent talents were naturally a dismal chorus echoing across the battlefield!

    Yun Xiao didn''t let them wail for too long. After all, such treasures only needed a brief disy! <em>BUZZ! </em>He reached out and pulled these Blood Crystal Sword Rings, which were being held in a-like magic treasure, into his Pouch of Holding and swiftly pocketed them!

    Seen and done¡ªthat was enough!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 208: Ill Reward You With a Dragon Robe!

    Chapter 208: I''ll Reward You With a Dragon Robe!

    Everything boiled down to two focal points that said it all! The mystery box was opened! The result, revealed!

    Yun Xiao, all alone and without the aid of a billion ancestral spirits, ughtered two thousand talents from the Demon Continent! Not only did he kill, but he also absorbed the essence of their demon bones to forge a Sword Ring!

    This was the most nightmarish scenario the demons could imagine, and it had just be a reality¡­ As this scene unfolded, millions of enraged demons crowded together, their eyes nearly splitting open, blood gushing from their gaze.

    Atop the Ascension Gate, the faces of the Violet Emperor and Sword Saint Yu Qian turned a deep shade of purple, their pupils trembling wildly, hands unconsciously crushing the metal railing in front of them!

    The two exchanged a nce, faces twisted, unable to utter a single word! They felt a chilling draft on their backs!

    "Although it''s not our talents who died..." Sword Saint Yu Qian''s mind went nk. Mid-sentence, he suddenly remembered something, his body trembling, his voice hoarse: "Your Majesty, didn''t the Seventh Princess go in there?"

    No sooner had he spoken, both Sword Saint Yu Qian and the Violet Emperor spotted a small, headless corpse in a corner of the pile of mud!

    The Seventh Princess, being human, had not been turned into a Sword Ring!

    Yun Xiao had burned the body of the young man that Ghost Marriage possessed, but he left hers behind! There shey, alone and deste! This was his greatest insult to the false demons! Even in death, they were shamed!

    The Violet Emperor had withstood the killing of his five children! But when the greatest hope of his Violet Sky Immortal Empire, the future of the entire nation,y dead before him, his heart utterly shattered, blood furiously spurting!

    The mighty Violet Emperor, in a moment, had blood-red eyes! His reaction showed the extent of the inner turmoil that was tearing apart the three Demon Emperors right now as well!

    This was a fatal blow! This moment forged a cruel truth. Even if the Demon Continent won today, they would lose their future! At the very least, they had lost their most promising generation! Such a devastating blow was like a thousand swords piercing the heart of every demon!

    In an instant, the eyes of everyone in the Demon Continent and the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, human and demon alike, turned blood-red, their breathing heavy!

    Across from them, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army soldiers had long been gripping their magic weapons.

    After a brief moment of stunned silence, the Heavenly Realm cultivators, who had worried for an hour, felt a wave of excitement wash over them. Their eyes aze, they stared intently at Yun Xiao, erupting in deafening cheers.

    "Yun Xiao! Yun Xiao! Yun Xiao!" The chants rolled like a tsunami through the Heavenly Realm, reaching even outside to the Divine Continent, shaking the very heavens!

    Everyone had gone mad! Everyone understood the significance of this moment!

    For countless years, oppressed by the Demon Continent, even the recent tragic deaths of the Azure Leaf faction couldn''t quell the hatred for the demons. Now, it was avenged! Kill the dog, and then leave its master childless!

    In two consecutive battles, Yun Xiao''s fame in the Divine Continent had almost surpassed that of the Divine Dawn Empress, who had in Eternal Joy! How did he do it? For themon people of the human race, that no longer mattered! What mattered was a resounding victory! A convincing triumph within the rules!

    This event, once spread, would surely ignite the fighting spirit of the entire Divine Continent, allowing all the oppressed humans to rise, weapons in hand, no longer afraid!

    This was the greatest significance of Yun Xiao''s life-or-death battle!

    There were far too many in the human race, crushed in spirit, too afraid to fight! The more they feared, the more the enemy would take advantage!

    Eternal Joy! The Sword Dao Monument! The War of Immortals! These three great victories solidified the unyielding spirit of the Divine Continent''s human race!

    Yun Xiao raised his sword to the sky, embodying all of humanity''s hopes.

    Back on the highest seat of the Ascension tform, the Divine Dawn Empress in her dragon robes finally rxed. She let out a long sigh, her eyes reddening slightly. After the victory with the Sword Dao Monument, she hadn''t wanted Yun Xiao to take risks, but he had persuaded her.

    Despite her calm facade, she was far from collected inside, even a bit panicky¡­ Thankfully, the oue was just as she had hoped! If not for the many eyes watching, she would have embraced him fiercely right then and there!

    "He has done everything. Now, it''s my turn," the Divine Dawn Empress muttered. With the Azure Leaf faction gone, the Violet Sky Immortal Empire and the Demon Continent suffered yet another generational setback!

    How could they just let this be? This turmoil was far from over; it was only going to escte!

    "What''s he going to do now?"

    While everyone was still digesting the victory, Yun Xiao collected all the Blood Crystal Sword Rings. In the next moment, he grasped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, aiming to decapitate Moon Fairy!

    "Is this fox worthy to stand with me? I spared him for half an hour just to show you Demon Continent fools what I can do!" Yun Xiao dered. Already cast as a brash young hero, he might as well y the part to the end! His threats were not empty; he meant to cut!

    Without going this far, Moon Fairy''s identity would be useless! If no one stopped him, he might as well destroy this body double himself. With a swing, his sword aimed right at the Moon Fairy''s neck!

    "Stop!" Countless voices of fury erupted, creating a storm of sound!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, a blood lotus vine burst from the ground, mming into Yun Xiao''s chest and sending him flying!

    Spitting blood, Yun Xiao hit the ground, rolling several times!

    In the next instant, the grievously injured Moon Fairy was pulled by the blood vine into the depths of the earth, escaping Yun Xiao''s fatal sh!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Almost simultaneously, Yun Xiao was entangled in a surge of blood-red lightning!

    <em>HUM! </em>A figure in dragon robes had already shielded him, standing protectively behind.

    All of this happened in the blink of an eye!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The three great Demon Emperors and the 108 Demon Saints rose to their feet, standing in front of the millions of demons.

    The atmosphere in the Heavenly Realm turned deadly in an instant! It was like fire meeting water!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The dying Moon Fairy was yanked out of the earth by the Red Lotus Demon Emperor.

    Lady Hua Lian, already in tears, clung to Moon Fairy, weeping in agony.

    "Master, I''m sorry..." Moon Fairy''s voice was like a broken string, his eyes dim and lifeless.

    Struggling, he looked towards the Eclipse Demon Emperor, his voice trembling, "Eclipse, let me die!"

    The Eclipse Demon Emperor, with blood-red eyes, was the most furious of all!

    He nced at Moon Fairy and Lady Hua Lian, his brow deeply furrowed.

    "You do deserve to die!" he said, preparing to strangle him!

    Luckily, the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus held him back, preventing Moon Fairy''s neck from being crushed.

    "We only have one prodigy left. Yet, you still want to kill him?" the Gu Emperor asked.

    "What else can appease my spirits?" Eclipse growled, ring at him.

    "First, exterminate Yun Xiao," the Gu Emperor said coldly.

    As they spoke, the Divine Dawn Empress'' furious voice echoed from the other side.

    "Yun Xiao, hand over those Blood Crystal Sword Rings!" the Divine Dawn Empressmanded, her gaze icy and authoritative.

    "I won''t!" Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "It''s not up to you!" With a wave of her hand, the Divine Dawn Empress subdued Yun Xiao with thunder, personally retrieving the Pouch of Holding.

    Then, with a voice filled with apology, she addressed the three Demon Emperors, "Esteemed Demon Emperors, the boy is unruly, having caused disgrace. I have failed in my supervision, for which I deeply apologize. These talents of the Demon Continent died in fair battle, honorably, and should not have met such an end... However, the deed is done, and all I can do is severely punish this boy and return the remains of the Demon Continent''s talents to you, hoping they can beid to rest in the Demon Continent..."

    She was quick to speak, framing the devastating loss of the Demon Continent as Yun Xiao''s sole doing, shifting all the me onto him. In such a perilous situation, standing alone before the three Demon Emperors, her calm tone boosted the confidence of countless humans.

    They all stood behind the Divine Dawn Empress, united in a will to fight to the death! Without the killing of the Azure Leaf faction, how could the Heavenly Realm have been so united? This support indeed put pressure on the Demon Continent!

    In contrast, the demons across could only seethe with rage!

    "Strict punishment?" the Gu Emperor said coldly. He was ranked second in the whole of the Demon Continent and the oldest among them. Despite his heart bleeding, knew well that mourning was futile and revenge was the key.

    "Then, I request Divine Dawn, as per the arrangement an hour ago, to publicly cripple Yun Xiao!" the Gu Emperor said ominously.

    "Cripple him!" Millions of demons red at Yun Xiao.

    The so-called fair death in battle meant acting ording to pre-set rules. Yun Xiao had killed Tian Lu, breaking the <em>friendship</em> with the demons, and so, being crippled also fell within the rules.

    The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor''s army had yet to arrive, and the Divine Dawn Empress hadn''t dered war. So, before aplete falling out, the rules still mattered.

    However, those from the Demon Continent didn''t actually believe the Divine Dawn Empress would publicly cripple Yun Xiao.

    At this point, there was no difference between that and aplete fallout.

    As expected, the Divine Dawn Empress looked at Yun Xiao helplessly, saying sorrowfully, "I never imagined that the one to be humanity''s top Immortal would be such a defiant brat! As per my promise, I will hold a wedding with him today at noon! To ensure he survives the ceremony, I''ve decided to postpone his punishment until after the vows, and I ask for the understanding of all guests!"

    After saying this, she added, "Rest assured, Emperors! His stubbornness deserves punishment, and I''m just following the rules. After the vows, I will personally cripple him, and you may witness it yourselves!"

    The reaction of the three Demon Emperors was as expected. They looked coldly at the Divine Dawn Empress and the beings of the Heavenly Realm behind her! Tens of millions of people! Each one capable of forming an army!

    This was the Heavenly Realm''s most fierce moment!

    The teeth of the Eclipse Demon Emperor sunk into the flesh of his lips, drawing blood!

    "I propose, on the day we conquer the Heavenly Realm, to transform the souls and flesh of these tens of millions here into a Blood Soul Pir, to rece the Sword Dao Monument and stand at the gates of the Heavenly Realm for ten thousand years. What do you think?" He turned his head, speaking in a low voice to the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus.

    "It''s far from enough," Red Lotus replied, her voice chillingly cold. Her heart was shattered, leaving only endless ughter in her thoughts.

    "Only a revenge a thousandfold can serve as a blood sacrifice for our children..." the Gu Emperor said gravely.

    By this point, the three of them had no desire to utter any more meaningless words here.

    Demons preferred to let actions speak.

    At that moment, the Divine Dawn Empress announced, "The remnants of the Azure Leaf faction''s treason have beenrgely eradicated. The gates of the Heavenly Realm are now reopened."

    Meaning, anyone who wanted to leave could do so at any time!

    After speaking, the Divine Dawn Empress suddenly grabbed Yun Xiao''s cor, her brows slightly raised.

    "What are you doing?" Yun Xiao whispered.

    "Getting married again!" the Divine Dawn Empress pouted nonchntly. "Considering your decent performance, I''ll reward you with a dragon robe!"

    Yun Xiao immediately brightened up.

    She intended to harness the momentum of the human race''s rising confidence to fully assimte the fruits of victory from this First War of Immortals!

    But just then, the Violet Emperor and Sword Saint Yu Qian, apanied by a host of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire''s powerhouses,nded between the Heavenly Realm''s people and the demons.

    The Violet Emperor nced at the Divine Dawn Empress and the three Demon Emperors and said ominously, "Regarding this War of Immortals and the ck Box Battle, there are still many suspicions. We believe that the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire must provide exnations to both the Divine and Demon Continents!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 209: Friends from the Endless Netherworld

    Chapter 209: Friends from the Endless Netherworld

    "Exnation?" In the court of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire, the eyes of the mighty from the Heavenly Realm turned cold and piercing.

    The Demon Continent didn''t seek any exnation, but it was the Violet Emperor who stepped forward. Not only did he step up, but he also addressed the guests from the Divine Continent on the Ascension Gate: "Treasure Emperor, Clear Emperor, Martial Emperor, Desert Emperor, please join me!"

    The Emperors of the other four great Immortal Empires reluctantly rose to their feet.

    Exchanging nces, they followed the Violet Emperor''s invitation, positioning themselves between the Divine Dawn Empress and the Demon Continent.

    With the four standing behind him, the Violet Emperor''s aura of righteousness intensified, embodying the stature of the foremost among Emperors.

    "What exnation do you want?" the Divine Dawn Empress'' gaze drilled into the Violet Emperor, her eyes sparking with electric intensity.

    The Violet Emperor, with a solemn look, turned to Yun Xiao and dered loudly: "This young man''s magic power is clearly not fully transformed into sacred power. Myself and the four human Emperors believe hecks the capacity for today''s ughter."

    The faces of the four human Emperors tightened. The Violet Emperor was obviously speaking for them without consent, but they did not deny it for now.

    "And?" the Divine Dawn Empress pressed.

    The Violet Emperor, fixing his stern gaze on the Divine Dawn Empress, proimed: "You orchestrated the War of Immortals, inviting guests from both the Divine and Demon Continents under the guise of marriage, setting up this grand melee. First, you coerced the other four Immortal Empires into withdrawing, leaving only Yun Xiao. Then, you used the death of Tian Lu to provoke our friends from the Demon Continent. The demise of these two thousand Demon Continent talents is on you, Divine Dawn, the mastermind!"

    Treasure Emperor hurriedly interjected, "Violet Emperor, you worry too much. My Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire withdrew because we had already taken a heavy toll in the Cycle Battle and Arena Champion Battle. Moreover, once Divine Dawn withdrew, we knew we couldn¡¯t contend with the Demon Continent''s talents. There was no coercion. Besides, Divine Dawn herself emphasized earlier that today¡¯s chaos was solely Yun Xiao''s doing and had nothing to do with her. This young man cannot represent the Heavenly Realm!"

    The Violet Emperor sneered. "Are you joking right now? This reeks of meddling and foul y! Do you really think deciding on the ck Box Battle just an hour before the War of Immortals continued was mere coincidence? It was clearly nned, a strategic move by a nation. Yet, you would have one youth be the scapegoat?"

    After this, the Violet Emperor turned his zing gaze back to the Divine Dawn Empress, his voice booming like a bell, "Guilty woman, don¡¯t think you can use one man¡¯s death to absolve your nation of its crimes!"

    The truth of the matter was crystal clear, so the demons didn''t want to fuss about it. But the Violet Emperor did! He aimed to represent humanity, pinning the me on the Divine Dawn Empress, thereby undermining the righteousness of her every move. By swaying public opinion, he sought to weaken the newly united fighting spirit of humanity.

    The term <em>guilty woman</em>id bare his intent.

    With that, the Violet Emperor raised his arm, sweeping his gaze over the millions of cultivators in the Heavenly Realm, his voice booming, "Fellow cultivators! Divine Dawn doesn''t speak for humanity! She plotted in secret, ughtering the talents of the Demon Continent, scheming to ignite a war between ournds, shattering the hard-won peace of ages! If she brings an unprecedented catastrophe upon humanity, the sin is hers alone! I urge my fellow humans, open your eyes, do not be led astray by this guilty woman, onto a path of no return, paved with corpses and blood!"

    "Get lost!"

    "Demon Continent''spdog, crawl back to your Violet Sky kennel!"

    "You dare to nder our Empress?"

    The cultivators of the Heavenly Realm and the thousands of demons were already at odds.

    The Violet Emperor''s ill-intentioned provocation was futile in thend of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire.

    The angry faces did not surprise the Violet Emperor. He wasn¡¯t aiming to sway the hearts of the Divine Dawn Empress'' people.

    He abruptly turned to the other four human Emperors, his voice icy, "The evil of Divine Dawn is a shared outrage for the five great Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent and our friends from the Demon Continent! Now, the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire has made a grave mistake. Don''t think of dragging the whole Divine Continent down with you! We hereby dere, on behalf of the Divine Continent, we will not hinder the Demon Continent from seeking justice against your Heavenly Realm!"

    With these words, thousands of demons roared in approval.

    "Divine Dawn Immortal Empire to ruin!"

    Clearly, the Violet Emperor was forcing the four great Immortal Empires to take a public stand.

    At that moment, all eyes turned to the four human Emperors! Their every word, about to be spread throughout the Divine Continent, would stir the hearts of the people.

    Public opinion in the human world was in the hands of powerful ns and families, closely allied with the rulers of the Immortal Empires, leaving themon folk seldom hearing the truth.

    As the Violet Emperor spoke, he extended three slender fingers, then, with a smile, he gently pressed down one, leaving two standing. The message was clear! Not publicly taking a side? Then two-thirds of your kin would descend to hell!

    The four human Emperors stood in the heart of the storm. They were silent! But silence was no solution; they had to take a stand. On one hand were the lives of the Divine Continent''s people, on the other, their own families. What to choose? The burden of rulership was indeed heavy!

    Just then, Yun Xiao broke the tense silence with a coldugh. Stepping forward, his eyes zing, he challenged. ¡°I¡¯d like to ask the Violet Emperor, on what grounds do you pin my solo act on the entire Divine Dawn Immortal Empire? Do you have any evidence to prove it?¡±

    The Violet Emperor remained silent, but Sword Saint Yu Qian chillingly retorted, ¡°The proof is visible to the naked eye! Does it still need evidence? You''re merely in the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. Sure, given your talents, it might be believable if you took down one opponent in the Late Demon Saint Realm. But who would believe you could y two thousand? If there were no foul y, why set up the ck Box Battle?"

    ¡°And how did I supposedly aplish this?¡± Yun Xiao asked, raising an eyebrow.

    ¡°Simple! The way of the Sword Cultivator may be in decline, unknown to many, but not to me,¡± Sword Saint Yu Qian said coldly, his gaze sweeping over Yun Xiao and the likes of Sword Saint Sun behind him. ¡°The most potent life-saving treasures in the world are the Sword Hearts of Sword Cultivators. With the Sword Hearts of three Sword Saints, you could very well achieve it!¡±

    "Exactly!" The Violet Emperor turned to Divine Dawn. "You''ve just promoted Sword Cultivators, and they provided Sword Hearts to Yun Xiao. Combined with the cover of the ck Box Battle... Divine Dawn, dare you say this isn''t your nation''s crime?"

    At this, many among the crowd, both human and demon, finally realized, recalling the existence of the Sword Heart! Indeed, a one-time tool for overpowering foes! Used exclusively by Sword Cultivators, it had slipped out of the mainstream''s attention.

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao actuallyughed. <em>These folks have a wild imagination, but sadly, they don''t understand the ways of the Creator Immortal. </em>Thinking this, he nced at Sword Saint Sun. If the Sword Hearts of the Three Great Sword Tombs were to be used, he would be the first to know.

    Sure enough, Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian stepped forward, each producing a Sword Heart from their Pouch of Holding.

    Sword Saint Sun said ndly, "The Sword Hearts of thest three generations of Sword Saints from our Sword Tombs are all here. Even the Sword Heart of a Sword Saint, especially the older ones, would have lost their power by now. In the entire Divine Continent, only our lineage and your Violet Sky Immortal Empire practice Sword Cultivation! All our Sword Hearts are ounted for. By your logic, I might suspect your Violet Sky Immortal Empire as the mastermind behind the deaths of those two thousand Demon Continent talents. Why don¡¯t you show your Sword Hearts to prove your innocence?"

    Sword Saint Yu Qian''s face turned ashen upon seeing these three Sword Hearts. He was so sure it was the Sword Souls! What else could it be? Indeed, there was nothing else. The two billion ancestral spirits of the Sword Dao Monument had long departed!

    And so, the Violet Sky Immortal Empire''s usation crumbled on its own.

    Just then, Yun Xiao suddenly raised his hand, sending a Flying Sword hurtling towards the Sword Saint Yu Qian!

    Sword Saint Yu Qian reacted instantly, parrying Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul! His Sword Aura was less than half that of Yun Xiao,cking even a Sword Ring!

    <em>KLANG! </em>His sword deflected Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul, but a tiny crack appeared on it!

    "Uh..." Sword Saint Yu Qian frowned deeply, stepping back.

    Seeing Yun Xiao overpower a Saint Realm powerhouse with a single sword strike, the crowd erupted in astonishment!

    "With this strike, I want to tell you two things," Yun Xiao dered, "First, I ughtered those Demon Continent fools fair and square with my own skills! Second, if you have a problem,e at me directly. What skill is there in smearing my wife?"

    Yun Xiao stylishly sheathed his sword, reaching out to grasp the Divine Dawn Empress¡¯ slender waist.

    "Get lost!" the Divine Dawn Empress shot Yun Xiao a re, then turned to the three Demon Emperors of the Demon Continent. "Rest assured, gentlemen. Once we''re married, I''ll make sure to punish this rebel severely. We can''t tolerate such a menace who jeopardizes the peace between the Divine and Demon Continents."

    The Violet Emperor and Sword Saint Yu Qian exchanged a chilling look, realizing their attempt to pin the me had failed miserably.

    The four Human Emperors seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.

    "Your Majesty Divine Dawn, please ensure this scoundrel receives harsh punishment!" Treasure Emperor said angrily, ring at Yun Xiao.

    "No problem!" the Divine Dawn Empress'' eyes gleamed dangerously.

    The demons, led by the three Demon Emperors, silently marched towards the Ancestral Temple, suppressing their raging fury, while the Violet Emperor coldly sneered and stormed off in a huff.

    As the human Emperors were leaving, a shadow approached them, whispering, "We''ve got leads. Your people are gathered in four locations within your Immortal Empires. The Drunkard is leading the operation."

    The human Emperors trembled, their eyes red with emotion.

    "A millennium''s work hinges on this moment."

    With that, the shadow vanished.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Ancestral Temple! This estate, second only to the Divine Dawn Empress'' pce, was now entirely upied by demons. The three Demon Emperors had to issue strict orders to contain the wrath of the other demons, locking them in as a defensive measure.

    The Three Demon Emperors had gathered in a deep, secluded chamber. Outside, the demons roared, rampaged, and caused an uproar. But inside, it was eerily quiet.

    Only the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus stood at the door, gazing at the fog-enshrouded Ancestral Temple.

    "Why didn''t Divine Dawn seize the opportunity to strike us when the battlefield opened? The Heavenly Realm''s fighting spirit was at its peak. She had the chance to hurt us first. Why didn''t she?" Red Lotus pondered.

    Times had changed. They were guests, far from home. Even with many peak powers, they were at a disadvantage against the fervent humanity of the Heavenly Realm. Powerful beings could influence the battle, but they didn''t determine everything.

    "It just means she''s also buying time, waiting for a better opportunity and trump card," the Gu Emperor said darkly.

    "Then let''s see who has the better timing and bigger trump card," Red Lotus whispered.

    "Our demon army numbers over a hundred million in size have already mobilized. By noon, we will strike the Heavenly Realm..." the Gu Emperor said grimly.

    Their initial reluctance to act had cost them dearly, pulled into the fray by Yun Xiao''s machinations. This lesson was painfully learned.

    Suddenly, Red Lotus rooted herself to the ground, her countless branches and leaves extending outwards. Closing her eyes for a moment, her blood-red pupils shimmered as she opened them, dering, "Prepare to wee some distinguished guests!"

    "Who?" asked Gu Emperor.

    "A few friends from the Endless Netherworld. They were toozy to follow the main army and have already arrived in the Heavenly Realm," Red Lotus exined.

    "What level are they?"

    "The kind that can cross the Heavenly Realm''s barrier without a divine vessel," Red Lotus said.

    The Heavenly Realm''s gate could only stop the ordinary.

    "Oh¡­" The Gu Emperor''s gaze turned profound. "It seems this recent strengthening has brought us quite a few new friends."

    "Indeed, the stronger the being, the more friends they have. Without real power, one cannot enter the circles of the Endless Netherworld." Red Lotus nodded, her cold smile lingering. "The friends of Forbidden Fate are our friends too. He asked us to make a list for these new allies to assassinate. We aim to eliminate all key figures in the Heavenly Realm before the arrival of our hundred million demon army, crippling Divine Dawn''s support."

    "A list?" Gu Emperor envisioned several figures.

    "Chen Xiao, Zhao Xuanjian, Qi Lan, Sword Saint Sun, Nangong Xi, You Yue... These are easy targets, not too challenging," the Gu Emperor said with a cold smirk.

    "The challenge lies with the Nine Divine Guards! Even that Drunkard ranks ninth, who knows the level of the other eight? And their identities are still hidden," Red Lotus said, her voice chilly.

    "These Nine Divine Guards were likely near the Ascension Gate earlier. I found some of their locations; they''re quite formidable." The Gu Emperor nodded.

    The Divine Dawn Empress, having set up the ck Box Battle, was prepared for the direct intervention of the three Demon Emperors. Those Nine Divine Guards, capable of restraining Demon Emperor-level powerhouses, were crucial.

    "It doesn''t matter who they are. As long as we find them, our new friends will take care of them," Red Lotus dered.

    "Indeed."

    Timing and trump cards! Everyone was waiting! Next, it was a matter of who would surprise whom.

    "Red Lotus, have you ever been to the Endless Netherworld? Is it as terrifying as the legends say?" the Gu Emperor asked softly.

 Chapter 210: Reborn as a Human in the Next Life

    Chapter 210: Reborn as a Human in the Next Life

    "Demons are demons. Devils are devils. That ce is the devildom¡ªa realm where even ghosts bow down!" Red Lotus'' eyes glowed red. "The gates of the Endless Netherworld have only been open a few years, and already they''ve shaken the Demon Continent to its core. What the future holds is anyone''s guess."

    "I''ve heard that during thest cmity, a new world portal was sted open right over the Demon Continent..." the Gu Emperor mused.

    "True! Old Snake went in to explore, but so far, not a peep. Let''s hope it''s not another endless underworld," Red Lotus murmured softly.

    "Thisnd of the Demon Continent, it''s tangled in too many fates!" The Gu Emperor shook his head.

    "Indeed..." Red Lotus straightened up, ready to greet their new friends, but after a quick look around, she asked, "Where''s Lil Tian?"

    "He must have gone to see Moon Fairy," the Gu Emperor replied.

    "Is there a problem?" Red Lotus asked.

    "We''ll see!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a dimly lit courtyard, deep in autumn, the ground was carpeted with crimson maple leaves.

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    Moon Fairy stood barefoot on a te stone, his gaze fixed on a woman in a pink dress with her long hair flowing loose, tears brimming in her eyes.

    "You''ve reached the Late Demon Saint Realm... You''ve absorbed all their Deste Essence," Lady Hua Lian said, her eyes filled with sorrow and her pretty face etched with worry.

    "Yes." Moon Fairy loosened his body, his bones cracking loudly¡ªa sensation of unprecedented strength. He was as strong as a mountain!

    "Why?" Lady Hua Lian''s tears fell as she shook her head, looking at Moon Fairy. "Why did you have to kill them?"

    "Master, I wish to be the Emperor of the Demon Continent. They were all my rivals!" Moon Fairy stepped forward, gripping her fragrant shoulders. Now, he was stronger than her,pletely dominating her aura.

    "But you''ve betrayed the Demon Continent!" Lady Hua Lian cried out in despair, her lips trembling.

    "Not at all! By consuming their Deste Essence, I''ve be more powerful, capable of doing more for the Demon Continent!" Moon Fairy locked eyes with her. "Master, if demons don''t act for themselves, they face divine destruction! Sacrificing them has made me stronger. My worth surpasses that of those two thousand demons!"

    "So, I can be sacrificed too, is that it?" Lady Hua Lian said, lowering her head.

    Moon Fairy paused, then said earnestly, "No, you''re different..."

    "There''s nothing different about me. Even if I don''t want war, I''m still a demon, and you, colluding with the humans, are a traitor! You should be silencing me by now..." Lady Hua Lian suddenly grasped his arm, her eyes fiery red as she stared at him, "Moon Fairy, you deceived me, toyed with me. I hid your origin, and now I''ve made a grave mistake. I can''t face the souls of the Demon Continent. Could you grant me a swift end?"

    Looking at the heartbroken beauty before him, Moon Fairy''s gaze wasplex as he slowly shook his head. "Master, can we pretend nothing happened? You don''t know anything."

    Lady Hua Lian grew even more distraught. "Then, should I continue to help you, gathering information on the demons for the Divine Continent, aiding in the destruction of my own kind? What do you take me for? Even as a fox, I can''t betray my kind..."

    Moon Fairy was stunned. He stared at the fox demon before him, speechless for a long time.

    "Lil Moon, you should go. The Eclipse Demon Emperor is not easily fooled. You''ve drawn Yun Xiao into battle twice and survived; he will eventuallye for you. Don''t be greedy; when the timees, it''ll be toote to run..." Lady Hua Lian''s tearful gaze met his.

    "I won''t leave." Moon Fairy shook his head.

    "If you don''t leave, I will tell him everything! We''ll seek redemption together!" Lady Hua Lian''s gaze hardened as she bit her lip.

    "Are you serious?" Moon Fairy suddenly grabbed her throat, pressing her against a stone.

    Lady Hua Lian''s face turned pale, tears streaming down as she stared nkly at Moon Fairy.

    "Kill me, then go..." she said dimly.

    Moon Fairy''s hands trembled with tension. But in the end, he let go, not ncing back at her as he turned and walked away.

    "Lil Moon," Lady Hua Lian called out.

    Moon Fairy turned coldly, seeing her pull a heart-shaped jade earring pendant from her bosom. The heart-shaped pendant was carved with a fox face.

    "I bought it in the market that day, for you." Lady Hua Lian wiped away her tears with her sleeve, her other hand shakily holding it out.

    "Why?" Moon Fairy stood still, not reaching out.

    "The human world is beautiful, and so is this. If demons take over, there won''t be such beautiful things anymore," Lady Hua Lian said softly.

    "Heh." Moon Fairy took the heart-shaped pendant, wore it on his left ear, and turned into a mist, vanishing before Lady Hua Lian''s eyes.

    "It will keep you safe..." Lady Hua Lian''s words trailed off, for the silver-haired youth had already vanished from sight. She leaned forlornly against the stone, her gaze vacant and lost.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Suddenly, a youth in ck appeared before her! His gaze immediately fell upon the w marks on Lady Hua Lian''s neck!

    "He fled that way!" Lady Hua Lian''s heart skipped a beat as she quickly pointed in the opposite direction.

    From the icy stare of the youth in ck, she knew he was suspicious of her.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>In an instant, the youth dashed off in the other direction!

    Meanwhile, Lady Hua Lian was drenched in cold sweat. She looked towards the direction Moon Fairy had left, slowly closing her eyes, whispering, "Till the next life, my sweet Moon."

    <em>BOOM! </em>Soon after, the youth in ck reappeared in the courtyard. As hended, the ground cracked open, sending stones hurtling towards Lady Hua Lian!

    <em>THUD THUD THUD! </em>She was covered in bloody wounds.

    The youth in ck extended his w, grabbing her throat, piercing it, as dark blood gushed forth.

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    "Lady Hua Lian, you''ve be the first traitor in the history of the Demon Continent. You''ve truly made history, disgracing the Fox n!" He sneered. The fact that he hadn''t caught anyone following the direction she pointed to said it all. Previously, he even thought she was just being used!

    At this moment, Lady Hua Lian''s dress soaked with blood, her whole body stained red.

    "I''m sorry." She stopped resisting, tears in her voice. "I''m willing to die to atone."

    "Your life as a lowly fox is worth nothing!" The youth in ck spat out a ck me, engulfing her in fierce fire!

    <em>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </em>Her long hair, dress, and flesh burned to ashes under the vicious ck fire. The ck inferno consumed everything, leaving only her face and eyes full of longing. "In the next life, if only I could be human, how wonderful that would be."

    <em>PUFF! </em>The fox vanished in smoke and mist.

    "Summon everyone! Inform the Demon Continent to detain all foxes, and after the war, execute them all! From now on, in both the Divine and Demon Continents, foxes are the lowliest creatures, free to be killed on sight!" the youth in ck dered fiercely.

    "No, you can''t do this!" Within the ck mes, a soul that should have dissipated upon hearing these words, miraculously coalesced again, refusing to depart!

    "Oh, you still have enough spite to form a ghost?" the youth in ck sneered coldly at the vengeful spirit. "Perfect. You can watch with your own eyes the enormity of the crime you''vemitted!"

    With those words, he strode away.

    Leaving behind the tormented and twisted spirit of the fox.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Hah..." Moon Fairy quietly left the Ancestral Temple, hidden in the shadows. He looked back at the ce shrouded in darkness, sighing softly, "If she denounces me in front of the Demon Emperor, she should be able to keep her own life, right?."

    Moon Fairy''s next meeting with his master would be as enemies. Regretting not enduring a little longer to gather some crucial information, he felt frustrated. Now, temporarily losing his utility beyond battle, he was considering retracting this body double.

    However, Moon Fairy walking on the road suddenly felt a sharp pain in his heart.

    "Why..." His eyes reddened slightly as he looked back at the Ancestral Temple.

    From there, the roars of millions of demons could be faintly heard, ''The Fox n has betrayed us, execute them all...''

    "No!" Blood surged in the Moon Fairy''s eyes. He turned back to the Ancestral Temple! A mist rolled into the courtyard!

    "Master..." He lifted his head, only to see ck ashes where once stood a beautiful woman, now no longer of this world.

    "Ah!" Moon Fairy felt as if struck by thunder.

    Yun Xiao, far away, also choked, struggling to breathe.

    "A fox! A demon! Why did I..." From the start to the end, he had only been using her! He loathed demons, and with that mindset, it was hard for him to truly recognize a demon as something more. But when that very demon died before his eyes, the tearing pain was undeniably real.

    In the courtyard, Moon Fairy stood dumbfounded before the ck smoke, eyes red-rimmed, his sharp teeth biting into his lower lip, a frenzy of murderous intent growing in his heart!

    "Eclipse Demon Emperor!" He looked beyond the courtyard, barely able to contain his urge to kill!

    "Lil Moon..." Suddenly, a soft call quenched the fiery rage in his heart. He turned around quickly. Before him, a wisp of a soul transformed into a woman with long, pale hair. Her face was tear-stained, looking at Moon Fairy.

    "Master!" Moon Fairy reached out. But she was just a spirit, ungraspable. Emptiness filled his hand!

    "I''m alright. Everyone meets their end someday. I''ve seen the sun and moon change, experienced the world''s splendor. My death is not to be pitied..." Lady Hua Lian said softly.

    But Moon Fairy couldn''t ept this reality!

    "Lil Moon, the fact that you came back shows that someone in this world loved me. That is the best answer I could have," Lady Hua Lian whispered again.

    Moon Fairy shook his head, his heart in turmoil.

    "But..." Lady Hua Lian looked outside, her voice filled with despair, "The Eclipse Demon Emperor will take his wrath out on my Fox n. My death is deserved, but my n is innocent. I beseech you, save them!"

    Her plea was earnest! This was her unyielding wish even in death!

    "This is my responsibility, don''t worry!" Moon Fairy searched himself, and finally remembered the heart-shaped earring on his ear.

    "Master, for now, stay in this jade stone!" Moon Fairy held up the earring, his hands trembling as he presented it to her.

    Lady Hua Lian gave a pained smile, "I''m already dead, what use is there to cling to these remnants?"

    "The fate of the Fox n hangs in the bnce, dare you die now?" Moon Fairy bit his lip.

    "...I dare not." Lady Hua Lian bowed her head, her refusal to die had turned her into a vengeful spirit. But she was weak, oh so weak! She needed a vessel!

    "Not daring to die, then stay here with me!" Moon Fairy took a deep breath. "Legends speak of a technique to resurrect the dead. Someday, I''ll rebuild a body for my master!"

    Lady Hua Lian was stunned, gazing at Moon Fairy as the tears of her spirit cascaded once more.

    "Master, the next life is too far away. I don''t seek the afterlife but cling to this one. Please allow me this!" Moon Fairy knelt. He wouldn''t kneel to the Demon Emperor, but now, he offered his knees in a plea to retain her! Each word he spoke would be a thread for Lady Hua Lian''s lingering spirit! Like Yun Xiao''s unyielding spirit after death!

    Lady Hua Lian''s lips trembled with tears, her eyes beginning to shine. "Alright..." She gently descended onto the heart-shaped earring.

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    From then on, the jade fox face on the earring seemed toe alive.

    "Damn it, why must a fox like you be so kind to me..." Moon Fairy gently caressed the earring, then stood up abruptly. Turning to look at the myriad demons outside the Ancestral Temple, his eyes brimmed with a raging desire for vengeance! "The Heavenly Hound devours the moon, but you, you will surely die!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 211: Destroy the Enemys Plans, Subdue the Enemys Spirits!

    Chapter 211: Destroy the Enemy''s ns, Subdue the Enemy''s Spirits!

    Moon Fairy, with an air of mystique, hung the heart-shaped jade earring on his left ear. The fox face carved into the jade shone with a supple light, casting an ethereal glow on his face, adding a touch of otherworldly allure.

    His silver-white eyes, cold and enigmatic, brimmed with a lethal intent. "They all think I''ll run away, but the most dangerous ce can be the safest," he mused, a smirk ying on his lips.

    Lowering his head, Moon Fairy gazed at his hands and feet, marveling at his Divine Destion Physique. "After refining the Deste Essences of two thousand talents from the Demon Continent, and reaching the Late Demon Saint Realm, this body double even surpasses my main body in strength. I must be among the top ten in the Demon Continent now!" he thought. Being in the top ten there likely meant a spot in the top five of the Divine Continent.

    Strength andbat prowess were the foundation of all endeavors!

    With a hum, Moon Fairy transformed into a wisp of white smoke and floated out of the courtyard.

    In the Ancestral Temple, where demons roamed and dark clouds of malevolent mist hung heavy, a silver fox shadow glided through the ck pces and pavilions. He looked coldly at the vicious demons, his eyes growing even colder.

    "These beasts, enduring today''s humiliation, must be confident in the Demon Continent''s uing vengeance," he whispered to himself.

    Patience came from confidence.

    "I didn''t expect the Great Merciful Tribtion to drive these demons so much into a corner," Moon Fairy reflected. Though this didn''t change the oue of the war, it had forced the Demon Continent to be on guard earlier than expected. He felt responsible for this unforeseen development and was determined to make amends.

    At least, having reduced the Demon Continent''s forces by a third, their hastily assembled army of 100 million couldn''t match the strength of the elites who had perished. "Apart from the 100 million-strong demon army and a pincer attack, what else are these beasts counting on?"

    ording to the Divine Continent''s intelligence, the Demon Continent''s forces consisted of five Demon Emperors, 108 Demon Saints, and an army of 100 million demons.

    "Eclipse and Red Lotus endured so much. With Bloody Wail and Tian Lu gone, they must have some ace up their sleeve," Moon Fairy mused. As he made his way through the Ancestral Temple like a ghost, he was thinking about what the demons were hiding alongside his original self.

    "The real trump cards are surely known only to the top-tier demons, and they''re dangerously powerful..."

    Yun Xiao was not overly concerned about his body double''s safety. Moon Fairy was an ordinary clone, made special only by the Will of Divine Destion. If it perished, he could simply create a new one when he came across another Split Body Seed. So, the body double could take greater risk!

    In a blink, Moon Fairy reached the deeper parts of the Ancestral Temple, the dwelling ce of the 108 Demon Saints. Lady Hua Lian also could have resided here, but her love for peace and quiet had led her to the remote fringes.

    Moon Fairy arrived at the entrance of a deep pce, surrounded by monkey demons of all shapes and sizes. Whether in human or beast form, they leaped and scampered through trees and rooftops, their incessant screeching and bare teeth an utter nuisance.

    "The Ape Saint, huh..." Moon Fairy chuckled softly, drifting into the pce. He moved like a specter among the monkeys, unseen and undetected. Before long, a courtyard appeared before him, marking the next stage of his daring journey.

    In the Ancestral Temple''s serene pavilion, a burly man with golden wire-rimmed sses was absorbed in a book titled "Treatise on Merits." Kneeling before him was a fiery-haired, robust warrior, exuding a mix of confusion and rage.

    "Why can''t our three Demon Emperors, along with the Violet Emperor, just gang up on Divine Dawn and snuff her out? With her gone, the human race of the Divine Continent would crumble like tofu!" the red-haired warrior eximed, his eyes burning with the resentment of the Demon Continent''s lost talents.

    "The Gu Emperor says that humans can''t be underestimated with their cunning tricks. Even a joint attack might not kill her. Plus, she''s got the Nine Heavens Immortal Army and a bunch of followers... The most crucial thing is, those four other Immortal Empires hold significant sway. The Demon Continent can only press them by waging an overwhelming war, so they dare not make a move," the Ape Saint replied, setting down his book, his voice heavy with wisdom.

    "Those four old geezers? Just Saints at the Establishment stage. They might not even be as strong as you, my king," the red-haired brute scoffed.

    "But they hold the human race''s ancestral treasures. Although not as powerful as the Primordial Bell of the Heavenly Realm, they can inflict serious damage when fully unleashed," the Ape Saint retorted, his gaze piercing. "You''re shortsighted. If humans were so weak, the Demon Continent would''ve ttened them after the ancient war long ago. Their daoist spells, numerous talents, and myriad strategies, along with their military and magic formations, surpass ours. We''ve suppressed the Divine Continent for years purely because they''re disunited, greedy for glory, prone to infighting, andck a moralpass!"

    The Ape Saint tapped his book "Treatise on Merits" and chuckled. "Humans have many geniuses who write effective things. The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting. Our Demon Emperors have been sowing discord in the Divine Continent for generations, and our foundations in the Six Immortal Empires will unleash the deadliest morale blow once war breaks out, discrediting everything the human soldiers stand for and shattering their will to fight. Even the mightiest army crumbles like that!"

    "I don''t get it! I just know to fight hard, kill anyone who crosses me! If someone messes with me, I take them down on the spot!" the red-haired brute confessed, clearly perplexed.

    "You''ll lose to humans because you don''t understand them. They''re geniuses of wisdom. Their intelligence makes them selfish, blinded by their own interests, trapped in their own schemes. You just need to know that while the Demon Emperors conquer the Heavenly Realm, we can''t let the other four Immortal Empires lift a finger," the Ape Saint exined.

    "Even though one''s downfall affects the other, those four old men''s kin are on our chopping block. Their Empires have been corroded by the likes of Ye Qingtian, riddled with holes. When noon arrives, even if these so-called human Emperors want to fight, their Prime Ministers and Supreme Marshals will hold them back!" Finishing his lesson, the Ape Saint sipped his earthly tea, savoring its endless delights.

    In the pavilion, the red-haired brute expressed his bafflement, "Isn''t that foolish? After we deal with the Heavenly Realm, won''t we just turn on them?"

    The Ape Saint chuckled coldly. "That''s true, but when everyone''s mired in the web we''ve spun over centuries, do you think it''s easy for them to pull away? Unless..."

    "Unless what?" the brute inquired.

    "Unless our Demon Continent goes solo against the Divine Dawn in the Heavenly Realm and loses. Only then will the morale and confidence of the Divine Continent''s people truly ignite," the Ape Saint analyzed with a prating gaze.

    Hearing this, the red-haired brute let out a resigned chuckle. "Then I''m relieved! Just our 100 million-strong demon army can single-handedly suppress the Six Immortal Empires. How could we not conquer the puny Heavenly Realm?"

    "It used to be easy, but now with the Primordial Array of the Heavenly Realm and the Nine Heavens Immortal Army bolstered by it, plus their military tactics, it''s hard to say without a real fight. The Heavenly Realm now is the Divine Continent''s strongest fortress. To conquer it is to pierce the heart of the human race, and that means winning the Divine Continent!" the Ape Saint said, his eyes reflecting profound understanding.

    "So, it alles down to this Divine Dawn! Without her, we''d have no problems," the red-haired brute scoffed.

    The Ape Saint shook his head, "Not exactly. Our Demon Continent has seen a surge in talent over the past two generations, reaching a peak since the ancient war. It was time to close in on the Divine Continent. But Divine Dawn, like a savior sent by the heavens for the human race, indeed foiled our grand n."

    It was such inconvenient timing! With Ye Qingtian''s line extinguished and the next generation of Demon Emperors gone, the Demon Continent was teetering on the edge!

    At this, the Ape Saint suddenly smiled. "Fortunately, the great catastrophe that destroyed a third of ournd also brought a glimmer of hope."

    "King, are you referring to the substantial strengthening of the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor?" The eyes of the red-haired brute lit up.

    "Even you know about it?" The Ape Saint raised an eyebrow.

    "Just heard a bit from the Burning Saint."

    "Keep it under wraps. It''s our ace in the hole for conquering the Heavenly Realm. No leaks," the Ape Saint instructed.

    "Don''t worry, our brothers are well aware!" The red-haired brute grinned menacingly. "Lucky for us, Lady Hua Lian died early, else that traitor would''ve heard all about it."

    In the pavilion, the Ape Saint was about to reveal a secret when he suddenly mped his mouth shut.

    "What else is there?" the red-haired brute asked curiously.

    "Nothing, just wait and see." The Ape Saint waved dismissively. "Now leave, I need to brush up on this ''Treatise on Merits'' by the humans. Quite an intriguing read!"

    "King, you''re using their knowledge to outwit them!" The red-haired brute chuckled.

    "Indeed, even you, a red-haired baboon, have be cultured after a few days in the Heavenly Realm. It''s indeed a fine ce," the Ape Saint replied with a smile.

    With pride, the red-haired brute thumped his chest, standing up, his eyes alight with anticipation for the impending war. He strode towards the door, but as he stepped out, his body suddenly froze!

    Whirling around, the red-haired brute saw a silver-haired youth standing there, his icy white eyes staring coldly at the brute.

    "Moon Fairy!" the red-haired brute eximed in shock. Before he could react, the silver-haired youth pped him on the forehead.

    <em>SPLATTER! </em>The red-haired brute''s head exploded, scattering monkey brains everywhere.

    <em>THUD! </em>His headless body, once brimming with excitement, stumbled and fell, reverting to its original red-haired baboon form.

    "Moon Fairy?" The Ape Saint leapt up, his fiery gaze sweeping over.

    <em>BANG! </em>The door burst into mes, and amid the engulfing fire, the silver-haired youth stood, bathed in golden fire, his cold eyes fixed on the Ape Saint, a chilling smirk on his lips.

    The first time they met, the Moon Fairy was just a nobody in his eyes. But now, he was like a spectral fox!

    "You daree here?" The Ape Saint''s muscles crackled, his powerful demonic aura swirling around him. Among the 108 Demon Saints, he ranked in the top five, the first among the beast demons.

    "Why shouldn''t I?" Moon Fairy said with a sinister smile.

    "Really asking for death, aren''t you?" The Ape Saint''s face darkened as he nced at the red-haired brute''s corpse.

    "Just you?" Moon Fairy raised an eyebrow. With those words, he transformed into a mist of white fog, drifting away from the Ancestral Temple!

    The Ape Saint''s thunderous roar shattered a wall as he pursued Moon Fairy. Themotion roused the monkey demons, who scurried to alert the Demon Emperors. But the chaos the Ape Saint wrought was far greater!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOON! </em>The Ape Saint bulldozed through everything in his path¡ªrock gardens, pavilions, even walls of bronze and iron exploded under his fury. His golden, fiery form, like a tempestuous sea, swept towards Moon Fairy''s fleeing white shadow. It was a chase between two top-tier demons!

    Explosions marked his path, and lesser demons were pulverized into blood dust!

    <em>HUM! </em>The Ape Saint transformed into his true form¡ªa golden furred giant ape, the epitome of physical perfection. Where he tread, the earth cracked, pces crumbled, and his golden mes left nothing but charred ruins.

    Moon Fairy, now a three-tailed fox, sped along the ground with astonishing swiftness, almost invisible in his rapid movement.

    "What''s that?!" Many demons didn''t even see what hit them before being incinerated.

    "Curse that fox bitch for taking in such a traitor like you, leading to her own demise!" the Ape Saint bellowed, his face contorted with rage.

    Moon Fairy didn''t bother to reply. He had already darted out of the Ancestral Temple, disappearing into the deep, deserted streets of the Heavenly Realm.

    "You can''t escape!" The Ape Saint''s relentless pursuit crushed everything in its path¡ªstreets, buildings, shops¡ªengulfed by his fierce golden fire.

    Luckily, the area around the Ancestral Temple was now deserted!

    ncing back, Moon Fairy saw the Ape Saint still in hot pursuit, with other Demon Saints emerging in the distance, but no Demon Emperors yet in sight.

    "Busy, are we? What could be so important?" Moon Fairy''s eyes glinted coldly. From the Ape Saint''s earlier hesitation, he deduced the Demon Emperors were preupied with something crucial, likely a disaster looming over the Heavenly Realm''s human race.

    "Let''s go for broke!" Moon Fairy gritted his teeth. If it meant sacrificing his body double, so be it! After a short distance, his three-tailed fox form suddenly whirled around,unching a counterattack straight at the Ape Saint!

 Chapter 212: I Only Want to Drink Blood!

    Chapter 212: I Only Want to Drink Blood!

    "You?!" The Ape Saint, in his wildest dreams, never imagined Moon Fairy would turn around and attempt to counterattack. In a battle among demons, it was a bloodthirsty and brutal affair, a fist to flesh brawl that was nothing short of a high-level animal fight, where every move was lethal!

    On the deserted streets of the Heavenly Realm, a three-tailed fox and a me ape shed in mid-air!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Their collision sparked dazzling fireworks! Blood sttered, and both fox and ape were sent flying!

    The Ape Saint was a Golden Eyed me Ape. Famed for his formidable physical strength, he now bore crimson wounds torn across his body!

    And across from him, the Three-Tailed Demon Fox had a bloody hole on the side of its face, a souvenir from the Ape Saint''s powerful strike. But what was terrifying was how quickly this wound swelled, absorbing the blood and healing back to normal. This was the Seed of Creation ability of Bloody Wail¡ªBlood Sacrifice Life Origin.

    "With the fleshly talents from six Seeds of Creation, plus my Late Demon Saint Realm cultivation with the Will of Divine Destion, I''m only two steps behind the Ape Saint. I''m not that much weaker than him!"

    This single encounter let Yun Xiao deeply feel the strength of his body double. Indeed, one person could suppress two thousand demons of the Demon Continent alone!

    "You''re that strong?" The Ape Saint''s eyes widened in disbelief, staring at Moon Fairy in a daze. "With such supreme talents, why would you serve the human race? Before long, you could rule as a Demon Emperor in the Demon Continent, or even be the king of both the Divine and Demon Continents!"

    Such might was beyond the Ape Saint''s imagination.

    In just a few days, Moon Fairy had gone from the Demon Meridian Realm to one of the top tenbatants of the Demon Continent. With such talent, didn''t he surpass ten Divine Dawns? The Ape Saint almost lost his will to fight. Even after what happened with Lady Hua Lian, he was utterly awed by this talent.

    "Who told you I serve the humans?" Moon Fairy got up, his fox face twisted fiercely as he red at the Ape Saint. "It''s just the Eclipse Demon Emperor, jealous of my talents, who framed me! He''s afraid I''ll take his title as the King of Beasts!"

    Moon Fairy took a deep breath and sneered. "Ape Saint, I lost in the War of Immortals, but I''ll win back my honor with my own strength. The Eclipse Demon Emperor killed my master, and I''ll avenge her with my own strength and extinguish him! This Divine Continent, I''ll conquer on my own!"

    "You haven''t betrayed us?" The Ape Saint, hearing this, had a mix of emotions in his eyes.

    "Betrayal? Have you lost your mind? With talents like mine, why on earth would I serve those worthless humans? Worthy of Divine Dawn? Please!" Moon Fairy sneered coldly. "The Eclipse Demon Emperor pinned the loss of the War of Immortals on me just to secure his throne. A ruler with such a narrow vision is a curse upon us beast demons. A dog remains a dog. His sister died, and what can he do besides barking? A total waste! Ape Saint, if you had any brains, you''d know where to stand in the future, right?"

    "..." The Ape Saint fell silent, utterly baffled. It was true. With such extraordinary talents, why would Moon Fairy betray them? It made no sense! As he pondered this mystery, Moon Fairy surviving two battles against Yun Xiao really did seem like mere coincidence.

    After all, Moon Fairy''s outrage at one of his ancestors being turned into a Sword Ring and his fondness for Tian Lu seemed¡­ well, normal. And at the end of the grand melee, it was clear to any sharp eye that Yun Xiao truly wanted to finish him off!

    "Let''s talk, Moon Fairy. I suggest we go to the Demon Emperors and have an open discussion. I believe the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor will give you justice," the Ape Saint said earnestly.

    "Discuss what? I want that dog dead! Can he execute that dog for me?" Moon Fairy scoffed.

    "This..."

    "If he can''t execute the dog, I''ll do it myself. There''s nothing to discuss! I just hope, after I kill that dog, you''ll lead our beast demons to support me," Moon Fairy said coldly, staring at him.

    The Ape Saint nced back, then nodded at Moon Fairy. "Alright!"

    "Why didn''t he chase me when I appeared at the Ancestral Temple again? What was he doing?" Moon Fairy asked, his voice icy.

    "This..." The Ape Saint''s face was a mask ofplicated emotions.

    "I just overheard your conversation with that red-haired baboon. What other ns does the Demon Continent have? I need to know!" Moon Fairy demanded, pressing the Ape Saint.

    The Ape Saint''s gaze burned fiercely as he looked at the Moon Fairy. "You won''t tell the humans?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Moon Fairy pped him across the face. With a loud crash, the Golden Eyed me Ape smashed through dozens of houses, creating a ravine!

    Moon Fairy stepped on his face, growling, "What do you take me for? These two defeats are a stain on my life! Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, I''ll kill them myself! Your words show you still underestimate me, Ape Saint."

    The Ape Saint''s face twisted, yet he dared not move. He knew well he couldn''t kill the Moon Fairy! Unable to kill him, and fearing his growing strength, he didn''t dare offend him.

    "How could I dare underestimate you? Your talent is clear as day..." the Ape Saint said, his voice filled with frustration.

    "Good that you understand." Moon Fairy stomped on him hard, pressing him into the earth, and said coldly, "Listen well, I have a short fuse! You''ve annoyed me now. If you try to y both sides between me and the Eclipse Demon Emperor, remember, when I rule the Demon Continent, your Monkey n will be the first I destroy! Believe it or not?"

    "..." The Ape Saint''s vision darkened at these words. He knew he was in deep trouble!

    Struggling, the Ape Saint looked into the distance and saw several Demon Saints approaching. And from the Ancestral Temple, a dark shadow was swirling towards them. Clearly, the Eclipse Demon Emperor was on his way!

    "The rise and fall of your n rests on your words," Moon Fairy sneered.

    "Yes!" The Ape Saint clenched his teeth. "The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor has made allies in the Endless Netherworld. They''re already here! All very powerful!"

    "What rank?" Moon Fairy asked coldly.

    "Emperor level!"

    "How many?"

    "Three have arrived so far! But I don''t know if there''ll be others," the Ape Saint replied.

    "What is this Endless Netherworld?" Moon Fairy had never heard of it!

    "It''s a world gate that opened recently in the Demon Continent. It''s terrifying inside! Forbidden Fate grew stronger and made these allies..."

    "So many changes these years!" As Moon Fairy spoke, a ball of fire approached rapidly. It was the top ranked Demon Saint, Burning Saint ¨C a resentment demon!

    "You''ve done well. Wee to the fold!" Moon Fairy gave the Ape Saint a cold nce, then suddenly transformed into a wisp of white mist and disappeared.

    The Ape Saint was drenched in cold sweat, heaving a sigh of relief. "Even if Moon Fairy truly is an ally of the human race, all I''ve revealed is about the friends from the Endless Netherworld. I didn''t mention their assassination ns, so it shouldn''t affect the Demon Continent''s operations..."

    Struggling to his feet, the Ape Saint watched Moon Fairy''s retreating figure. "Such a twisted soul, but then again, what sane demon would ever serve the humans?"

    Upon further contemtion, the Eclipse Demon Emperor''s campaign of eliminating potential dissidents seemed increasingly usible. After all, the charges against Moon Fairy were solely fabricated by him!

    Lady Hua Lian was executed, the Fox n judged without anyone knowing the details or having any evidence.

    "Is Moon Fairy really that terrifying?" When the Burning Saint arrived and saw the Ape Saint''s battered state, his face twisted in horror.

    "Terrifying indeed," the Ape Saint said, almost tongue-tied.

    "Such a meteoric rise in power, and they call him a traitor of the Demon Continent? He''s a future top Demon Emperor..." the Burning Saint said, wide-eyed in disbelief.

    "People can eat anything, but words must not be spoken carelessly, Brother," the Ape Saint cautioned with a deep frown. "This title of traitor was pinned on him by the Eclipse Demon Emperor himself, and the entire Fox n was decimated. It''s no small matter."

    "..." zing Saint paused, stunned.

    "Damn it, they''re pushing away a once-in-a-generation genius! The Demon Continent is alreadycking in such talents, how can they do this? No, I must speak with the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor. Even if Moon Fairy is a bit off, we need to win him back!" Burning Saint dered earnestly.

    "Oh!" The Ape Saint nodded, his mouth twitching, then with a face full of sorrow and anger, he went to meet the Eclipse Demon Emperor.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Spirit Treasure Pce was unusually quiet. Following the end of the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm, it was the day for redeeming bet winnings, but the excitement typical of such asions was missing.

    The reason? Yun Xiao''s unexpected victory as humanity''s top Immortal meant few had bet correctly.

    The Spirit Treasure Pce had made a fortune, swallowing the bets of those who guessed wrong. And with the unsettling atmosphere in the Heavenly Realm and rumors of the Demon Continent''s mobilization, few dared to venture out.

    In this lull, three shadowy figures emerged from a dark corner of a distant street. Two were shrouded in ck robes, blending with the darkness, their features indiscernible. The third, however, was a woman, towering in height.

    Taller than Chen Jin and Stray Dog, known for their robust stature, she might even surpass Yun Xiao by more than a head. d in a tight, short ck and red leather dress, her pale and impossibly long legs were a striking sight. Her figure was fiery and perfect, exuding an exotic allure.

    Her face bore a slightly prominent nose and thin red lips, with dark red, cold eyes. Her ck hair, like a waterfall, cascaded perfectly down her back, adding to her mysterious aura. The most notable feature was the two small horns at her temples, each marked with nine blood grooves, lending a yful yet seductive air to her exotic beauty.

    She was the epitome of temptation, like a thorny red rose, radiating beauty and danger¡ªa legendary wless body with perfect proportions. Young, fiery, and vibrant, it was clear the two figures behind her were either attendants or protectors.

    Upon arriving, their gaze immediately fell on the Spirit Treasure Pce. The woman''s red eyes flickered as she inquired, "Is this the ce?"

    "Yes, War Princess," an elderly man replied, handing her a list respectfully. "Our first target, Zhao Xuanjian, is here."

    "Who needs this worthless list?" With a flick of her slender finger, the paper turned to ash. She slightly opened her mouth, revealing a long, pink tongue, which she ran over her lips, chuckling lightly. "I seek only the young and delectable blood."

    Her tongue alone, just the part outside her mouth, was four inches long...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 213: A New Devilish Seed of Creation!

    Chapter 213: A New Devilish Seed of Creation!

    As the cold wind scattered, the woman known as the War Princess already stood at the gates of the Spirit Treasure Pce.

    "A formation?" Her dark red blood eyes swirled with a light of cold disdain, and the corners of her bright red lips curved slightly, showing some contempt. She extended her slender, fair fingers outwards. Her dark red nails gleamed like crystal ss. Each was over an inch long, sharply pointed at the ends, and seemed clearly capable of slicing through throats as easily as swords.

    <em>HUM! </em>Her nails pierced into the great formation of the Spirit Treasure Pce! A crimson power pulsed from her heart, rushing along her veins to her fingertips, turning into blood serpents that surged into the formation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The entire formation of the Spirit Treasure Pce trembled, shaking and cracking the ground and the towers with it. In an instant, countless blood serpents spread like poison throughout the formation, transforming it into a crimson blood formation.

    <em>HUM! </em>Starting from the War Princess''s palm, the formation cracked open, creating a gaping, blood-dripping hole, like a bleeding wound, dripping blood profusely.

    "A delightful day begins with a fresh, delectable breakfast," the War Princess said with a cold smile, striding through the broken formation into the Spirit Treasure Pce.

    As dawn broke in the Heavenly Realm, a somber night passed, weing the first light of day.

    <em>BANG! </em>Three figures entered the Spirit Treasure Pce! Their blood-red eyes swept over the scene! Inside, they saw a myriad of goods, brilliantly illuminated... but no one was there! Most of the treasures were still in ce, but the people were gone! Many things were in disarray, as if they had left in a hurry.

    "No one?" The War Princess frowned, a surge of blood rising in her.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The two figures behind her rushed deeper into the Spirit Treasure Pce, ascending several floors.

    Soon, they returned to the woman, whispering, "Reporting to the War Princess, not a soul in sight."

    "Heh heh..." Her delightful mood soured instantly.

    "These three demons dare y games with my pce?" The War Princess was seething with anger. This was a serious problem! She scanned the Spirit Treasure Pce; many treasures were still there, but they seemed to interest her not at all. Her long legs stamped down hard on the ground!

    <em>BOOM! </em>A force, apanied by a mist of blood, shot through the ground, forming a vast, blood-red that spread from the ground to the body of the tower.

    <em>CRACK! </em>This golden tower, standing tall in the Heavenly Realm for years, suddenly split open, revealing countless blood-red fissures, as if bleeding from within.

    "Let''s go!" With a dark expression, the War Princess turned to leave.

    The two shadows hurriedly followed. As they left the Spirit Treasure Pce, the golden tower exploded, turning into countless blood-stained stones raining down, kicking up dense clouds of blood mist!

    Many magic treasures and resources for cultivating the Dao were buried under the rubble. In an instant, the golden tower became history in the Heavenly Realm.

    <em>HUM! </em>The three figures didn''t look back as they vanished into the deste streets.

    Not long after they left, from the shadows of a distant street corner, emerged a silver-haired figure, indistinguishable as man or woman. It was Moon Fairy.

    "Do you say this is a Seed of Creation with a blood type talent?" Moon Fairy murmured to the air.

    After a while, seemingly receiving confirmation, his silver-white eyes brightened slightly. "The first blood type Seed of Creation! Its level surpasses even the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, capable of unlocking a third system of cultivation beyond human and demon... But, she seems quite strong!"

    There were five types of Seed of Creation talents¡ªblood, bone, flesh, core, and soul. Yun Xiao had only obtained flesh and core type so far, with blood, bone, and soul yet to be encountered.

    "Is this what devils are like?" Moon Fairy remarked, interest sparkling in his eyes.

    "Demons are demons, and devils are devils? The ultimate end of the Demon Dao is the Divine Destion Demon God. Meanwhile, the end of the Devil Dao is another Ancestral God? Humans cultivate the Dantian. Demons perfect their fleshly bodies. But devils... they cultivate blood! Their hearts and blood vessels are their source of power, possessing potent blood sacrifice power. This enhances their physical body and allows them to wield blood magic, manipte magic treasures in battle, achieving a bnce superior to both humans and demons?" Moon Fairy murmured to himself. If someone saw him talking to himself, they''d probably think he was mad. In fact, he was conversing with Blue Star.

    "It seems the devil race, though simr in appearance to humans, is indeed a distinct species. Humans and devils cannot reproduce together. They may look simr, but they''re not the same species..." Moon Fairy''s gaze was cold.

    Different races, different hearts!

    "But that doesn''t affect pairing up," Blue Star said to Yun Xiao in the Divine Dawn Pce.

    "Stop talking nonsense... She''s obviously much taller than my original body and body double." Moon Fairy shook his head.

    "What? Not into death by snu snu? Hehe." Blue Starughed.

    "With thentern in hand, the world is mine!" Red Moon''s eyes shone bright.

    "You two are definitely sick in the head!" Moon Fairy cursed at the air.

    The little ck beast might be rxed, but Yun Xiao was feeling the pressure.

    "The Demon Continent''s topbatants are already strong. Add the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor and these three to the mix, that makes three devils and four demons! What are we going to do?"

    "Don''t worry about it, you just absorb all of Divine Dawn''s power, and go on a rampage," Blue Star said in a carefree manner.

    Seeing its confidence, Yun Xiao rxed a bit. However, after thinking for a while, he still had some concerns and asked, "Bluey, our opponents are too fierce now. Will this all-or-nothing third dual cultivation session really work? Nothing will go wrong, right?"

    If Yun Xiao had known time was so short, he would have started the first cultivation session the day he met Chen Xi! From the moment he set foot in the Heavenly Realm and took care of Ye Xingchen, this journey kept throwing curveballs, leaving even the Divine Dawn Empress at a loss.

    Luckily, there was still time for that much-anticipated third dual cultivation session.

    "Any problems? My brother in the Heavenly Dao, are you doubting me?" Blue Star barked in anger.

    "No, no... Alright! It''s my turn to bear the brunt now!" Yun Xiao gritted his teeth.

    "Don''t worry, with your two dads here, you''ll definitely surpass the Empress, trample on bugs and dogs, and subdue the Devil Princess!" Blue Star stood with its hands on its hips, brimming with confidence.

    "Subdue what? A mere Seed of Creation devil dares to unt in front of me, thinking of drinking the blood of my human race? I''ll just ughter and devour it!" Moon Fairy looked in the direction where the War Princess had left, seething with killing intent.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back at the Ancestral Temple, inside a deep, dark chamber¡­.

    "War Princess, please calm your anger!" The Eclipse Demon Emperor was somewhat troubled, facing the seductive yet imposing devil sitting in the master''s seat. The three Demon Emperors stood awkwardly.

    "Why did you put together such a useless list? Not a single person was there. You made me take a fruitless trip," the woman said, sitting upright and looking down at the three Demon Emperors.

    Even seated, she towered over them. Her long, pale legs with a hint of red were crossed, dazzling to behold.

    "I didn''t expect the humans to be so cowardly, abandoning their treasures and fleeing," the Eclipse Demon Emperor exined.

    "You didn''t leak our ns, did you?" asked one of the ck-robed demons beside the War Princess, his voice aged and dry.

    The Eclipse Demon Emperor turned to look at the strongest Demon Saints like the Burning Saint and Ape Saint, shaking his head. "Impossible."

    "..." Hearing this, the Ape Saint''s expression didn''t change.

    "War Princess, rest assured. As per the agreement, once the Divine Continent falls, the Endless Netherworld can take the entire territory of the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire, its people to breed as blood ves. Fresh human blood will flow endlessly," the Gu Emperor said, smiling and bowing.

    "Not enough," the War Princess extended two fingers, ring at the group. "You deceived me, and I''m not pleased. I want two Empires!"

    "Two Empires?" The Eclipse Demon Emperor frowned.

    The other Demon Saints also looked grim.

    The Gu Emperor quickly said, "War Princess, that''s truly difficult for us. We can''t make that decision; it will depend on the will of Forbidden Fate."

    "You mean, it''s not possible?" the War Princess asked coldly.

    The Gu Emperor fell silent for a moment, then said, "If the Endless Netherworld could send a few more strong people, reducing our losses, then it''s not impossible... I heard from Forbidden Fate that the recent great catastrophe widened the entrance to Endless Netherworld, allowing stronger existences to pass through."

    "Heh," the War Princess scoffed with cold derision, "You demons are really useless, aren''t you? Four demons against one human, and yet you need to deploy an entire demon army against a mere girl? Stop fussing around. Just give me the location and three Empire''s worth ofnd, and I''ll go and y her myself. You can clean up after."

    "This..." The Gu Emperor, Red Lotus, and the Eclipse Demon Emperor exchanged nces. They hadn''t expected the new friends of the Forbidden Demon Emperor to be such an uncontroble force.

    From one Empire to three, her appetite was growing.

    Shaking his head, the Gu Emperor said, "War Princess, let''s stick to the original n! Divine Dawn is surely hiding in her pce, which is the core of the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array. Even with our numbers, a direct assault would be costly. If we lose one or two in the process, it''s not worth it. Especially you, War Princess, your well-being is priceless."

    "Right. Our demon army is almost at the gates of the Heavenly Realm. Once they break in, we''ll attack from outside, ughtering the Nine Heavens Immortal Army and the civilians. Divine Dawn won''t be able to hide forever," Red Lotus said softly.

    "You transformed beasts, having taken human form, seem to have picked up quite a bit of human nature, always weighing the pros and cons, wanting to win without loss? Heh. Boring!" With that, the War Princess stood up, dusted off her hips, and strode past the Eclipse Demon Emperor and Red Lotus, leaving without a backward nce.

    "You!"

    The War Princess'' clearly struck a nerve. Born with a natural disadvantage, demons prided themselves on their hard work and couldn''t stand such insults. Yet, in front of this new friend, they had to swallow their anger.

    After the War Princess left, the Gu Emperor''s gaze deepened with worry. "Seems like the expansion of the gateway to the Endless Netherworld isn''t necessarily a good thing."

    "Has Forbidden Fate mentioned it? Did he actively seek out these devils, or did theye looking for him?" Red Lotus asked in a low voice.

    The Demon Emperors and Demon Saints exchanged nces. Their expressions grew colder.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Leaving the meeting, the Burning Saint, transformed into a ball of me, pped the Ape Saint''s shoulder hard.

    "Are you alright?" the Burning Saint asked.

    The Ape Saint lifted his head and smiled. "Are you kidding me? Why wouldn''t I be alright?"

 Chapter 214: Divine Continents Pillar of Disgrace!

    Chapter 214: Divine Continent''s Pir of Disgrace!

    "Old Ape, I''m heading straight to see Forbidden Fate, to report about Moon Fairy. Youing?" Burning Saint paused for a moment. "I''ve thought it over. The Demon Continent can''t raise a new generation so quickly. Given the uing chaos, Moon Fairy''s too vital."

    "I won''t go," the Ape Saint said decisively.

    Burning Saint nced at him. "Right, you''re Eclipse''s top general. Can''t be undermining your own side."

    "Spirit Treasure Pce pulled out too fast. You didn''t tell Moon Fairy about our new friends did you?" the Ape Saint asked nonchntly.

    Burning Saint was taken aback, a bit irked. "You think Moon Fairy would betray the demons? Unnecessary worries!"

    "Right." The Ape Saint nodded.

    "I''m off." With that, the Burning Saint turned into a burst of me, shooting into the sky, vanishing in the blink of an eye.

    "Damn it!" Ape Saint cursed under his breath, adjusting his gold-rimmed sses, and returned to his temporary residence in the Ancestral Temple. Just as he opened the door, a silver-haired figure sat in the pavilion, head buried in Ape Saint''s "Treatise on Morality."

    "You dare show up?" Ape Saint red, his eyes zing with anger.

    "Superior strategy?" Moon Fairy closed the book, looking leisurely at the Ape Saint. "A monkey studying military tactics?"

    "And a fox-hearted fairy siding with humans!" The Ape Saint red coldly. "Moon Fairy, did you spill the beans to Divine Dawn about our new friends? What were you thinking?"

    "I did inform the humans, but I''m not wrong," Moon Fairy stood up, nonchnt.

    "You reveal our side''s trump card to the enemy before the battle, and you think you''re right?" The Ape Saint''s voice was icy.

    "Trump card?" Moon Fairy scoffed. "Are you sure it''s not inviting the wolf into the house?"

    The Ape Saint faltered, recalling the recent events in the underground pce, unable to respond immediately.

    "Which is stronger, the Endless Netherworld or the Demon Continent?" Moon Fairy inquired.

    "Clearly, the Endless Netherworld..." the Ape Saint replied.

    "So? The humans, Violet Emperor, and Ye Qingtian, sided with us demons for their own gain! Now, as fate turns, we demons ally with the devils of the Endless Netherworld for immediate benefits! Let me ask you, ording to the original n, after we conquer the Divine Continent, weren''t we supposed to betray the Violet Sky Immortal Empire?" Moon Fairy said gravely.

    "Yes..." the Ape Saint couldn''t refute.

    "So, are you sure the Endless Netherworld won''t betray us? The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind." Moon Fairy chuckled coldly.

    "The strength of the Endless Netherworld is a fact. As for the games between them and the Four Demon Emperors, that''s their business. Forbidden Fate has the guts, he must have a n. They''re just using the Endless Netherworld''s power. It''s not for you to worry about." Ape Saint gazed intensely at Moon Fairy. "But you, allying with humans, that''s a big problem!"

    "I just think thatpared to humans, the Endless Netherworld are a bigger threat! Better to join forces with the humans and kill these three devils first! When the snipe and the m grapple, kill the fisherman first! I''m the one truly considering the interests of the Demon Continent!" Moon Fairy said earnestly.

    After speaking, he gave the Ape Saint a cold look. "Watch, the Endless Netherworld will eventually cause trouble! Demons and devils, lumped together, can they be good? The weaker you are, the bigger their appetite!"

    "What do you suggest we do?" the Ape Saint asked.

    "This War Princess is surely a high-ranking figure in the Endless Netherworld. Capturing her could check their power!" Moon Fairy suggested.

    The Ape Saint looked at him silently for a long time, then sighed. "You''ve got some nerve!"

    "Don''t you find those devils repulsive?" Moon Fairy raised an eyebrow.

    The Ape Saint gritted his teeth. "Yes!"

    "Since the Demon Emperors don''t hold back, neither should we! Any vital information you have, tell me immediately, so I can prepare in advance," Moon Fairy said.

    "Why should I?" The Ape Saint shook his head.

    "If you don''t obey, when I grow stronger, I will annihte your entire family. After the Monkey n, I''ll exterminate all primates!" Moon Fairyughed.

    ".." The Ape Saint was speechless.

    "Besides, you''ve already snitched to me. If I let this slip, that dog will devour you for sure," Moon Fairy said.

    The Ape Saint remained silent, his mind racing.

    Before him, the silver-haired youth spoke fiercely, "I aim not only for human demise but also for the fall of the devils! Divine and Demon Continents shall belong only to us! For the future of our kind, I''m ready toy down my life!"

    With those words, Moon Fairy vanished from the courtyard, leaving the Ape Saint deeply unsettled.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Divine Dawn Pce, the Supreme Marshal, Sword Saint Sun, Zhao Xuanjian, Nangong Xi, and other high officials and mighty beings of the Heavenly Realm were all protected by the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array.

    "Why did Moon Fairy betray his kind and save my life?" Zhao Xuanjian rushed in, his face pale. He had narrowly escaped a disastrous fate.

    "My son-inw says that the fox was envied by the Eclipse Demon Emperor. He''s thinking big, realizing the devils are tough to handle, and wants to ally with us to defeat them first..." the Supreme Marshal shared a strange look on his face. He felt Moon Fairy was cruel and cunning, even among demons.

    "He''s as sharp as our son-inw, worthy of being a rising star of both continents." Zhao Xuanjian sighed. Regardless, Moon Fairy had saved his life.

    "What do you mean <em>our</em> son-inw?" The Supreme Marshal red at him. By now, almost everyone in the Divine Dawn Pce knew that Chen Xi was the Divine Dawn Empress. The news hadn''tpletely spread yet, but it left the lords and ministers stunned and buzzing.

    "Are the Demon Continent''s forces nearing the Heavenly Realm''s gate? Where are Yun Xiao and <em>our</em> daughter?" Zhao Xuanjian asked, unashamed.

    "They''re both intensively cultivating."

    It was a time of great turmoil. With three devils and four demons descending, the enemy''s forces were numerous, and the Heavenly Realm was isted and vulnerable¡ªtheir darkest hour!

    The Supreme Marshal was maintaining appearances, keeping the people and army calm, but inside, he was extremely anxious. Having fought the Demon Continent for years, he knew well the disadvantage they faced.

    On the battlefield, with terrain, morale, formations, and the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array, they could hold their own. But against the enemy''s pinnacle forces, they were vastly outmatched!

    If not for the Divine Dawn Empress'' assurance, the Supreme Marshal would have been out of his wits with worry! Even with foreknowledge of the arrival of the three devils, the Heavenly Realm''s top brass had no effective countermeasures.

    The Divine Dawn Empress and Yun Xiao were the Heavenly Realm''sst hope.

    The Divine Dawn Empress sat on the dragon throne, prepping for the third dual cultivation session, hastening the formation of her Yin Void to absorb Yun Xiao''s Yang Void power. The preparations were nearingpletion.

    Yun Xiao had already absorbed the Yin Void power from the first two sessions. He sat on the pce steps, consuming Wind Fire Tribtion pills, invoking a new Wind Fire Tribtion!

    Since returning from the Ascension Gate, Yun Xiao hadn''t wasted a moment. During this time, Moon Fairy was bustling about, while his main body remained still.

    "I need to break through as much as possible before the third time. The higher the foundation, the greater the benefits!" Yun Xiao muttered. His cultivation served as the base for the dual cultivation session; the closer he was to the Divine Dawn Empress, the better the effect.

    Under the influence of tens of thousands of Wind Fire Tribtion pills, the fourth and fifth Wind Fire Tribtions followed in quick session.

    This spectacle left the Supreme Marshal, Sword Saint Sun, and the others awestruck.

    "Drawing in the Wind Fire Tribtion like this, isn''t he afraid of burning to death..."

    They exchanged looks, concluding, "Monster!"

    Witnessing such monstrous cultivation, despite the immense pressure from the demons and devils, and the cries of despair throughout the Divine Continent, the Supreme Marshal and the others managed to remain calm inside.

    "How are the people?" the Supreme Marshal had steadied the army, but the mood of the Divine Continent''s popce wasn''t under his control.

    Qi Lan reported, "The Violet Emperor hasunched a propaganda campaign, using hisworks to spread the <em>warmonger </em>narrative across the Divine Continent. He''s iming the Divine Dawn Empress is young and foolish. Blinded by love, she''s harboring a criminal who deserves death, instigating the fury of the Demon Continent. He''s glorifying the demons and demonizing Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao¡­"

    "And the people''s reaction?" the Supreme Marshal asked gravely.

    "With limited sources of information, it''s hard for them not to believe the embellished stories. Now, resentment echoes across the Divine Continent. Aside from our own, the people and ns of the other five Immortal Empires, swayed by public opinion, seem lost. Even the other four human Emperors seem helpless. With the army and people confused, no one''s willing to fight for the Heavenly Realm..." Qi Lan''s voice was heavy.

    None of this surprised them. The Demon Continent''s years of influence in the human world had nurtured countless sympathizers. Once war broke out, a propaganda assault was expected.

    The greatest strategy was to destroy the opponent''s n! Attacking the hearts of the people, that was the first battlefield! It sounded absurd, but it was happening in every world.

    It was a mystery how the minds of people like the Violet Emperor worked. He openly admired the strength of the Demon Continent while degrading his own kind. He boasted about the might of others while delighting in trampling on the dignity of his own kinsmen.

    Perhaps the Violet Emperor thought that by betraying his own people, he could rise above and be a powerful demon himself.

    "Fortunately, the Demon Continent''s main attack is on our Heavenly Realm, and our cultivators see clearly, their fighting spirit unshaken," Qi Lan stated fiercely.

    "This situation, from the start, has been the Heavenly Realm alone against the entire Demon Continent. To have millions of Heavenly Realm cultivators on our side is already better than expected!" the Supreme Marshal spoke gravely.

    Did they have a choice? No, they didn''t! From the day the Divine Dawn Empress ascended, the Demon Continent had been preparing.

    The Heavenly Realm had seized the initiative with the War of Immortals, but that didn''t change the overall situation. Moreso, the changes brought about by the Great Merciful Tribtion was an ill omen for the Heavenly Realm.

    In short, all they had now was a Heavenly Realm willing to die for the Divine Dawn Empress! Standing alone against the Demon Continent, carving a path of survival for humanity, it was already a relief that they weren''t being stabbed in the back by the false demons and other five Immortal Empires.

    "If the Heavenly Realm falls, we''ll be nailed to the pir of shame in the Divine Continent''s history forever, branded as criminals of humanity," Qi Lan said, her usually steadfast eyes reddening.

    "It''s alright. To break humanity''s deadlock, we must bear all this. Which great leader didn''t drag along a bunch of dead weights and backstabbers as they fought to the death against the enemy? Choosing this path means we must shoulder it! If it weren¡¯t hard, why would the Divine Continent suffer for generations?" The Supreme Marshal''s eyes zed with an undaunted spirit, his heart free of fear, filled with resolve!

    "I just think that people like Violet Emperor and Ye Qingtian should meet a fate worse than death," Qi Lan said. She was, in fact, a bit scared. Not of battle or dying in it. But of dying and then being vilified by her own, buried in the depths of hell.

    Just when their hearts were at their darkest, the young man in white on the stairs ahead, with the thunderous sts of two consecutive Wind Fire Tribtions, brought a glimmer of hope.

    "Two breakthroughs, and he''s still in the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm..." Qi Lan was almost dumbfounded. Only then did she and the others realize that Yun Xiao had only been in the Late stage of the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm during the grand melee in the War of Immortals. Now, he was in the Establishment stage!

    "Doesn''t that mean he can fight on par with you and Sword Saint Sun?" Qi Lan asked the Supreme Marshal, stunned.

    The Supreme Marshal watched Yun Xiao with fiery eyes and chuckled. "I dare not fight him anymore! That would be seeking humiliation!"

    "I feel like he''s even more terrifying than our Empress," Qi Lan said in awe.

    "Drop the <em>feel like</em>," the Supreme Marshal gazed intensely at Yun Xiao. "If my daughter was the savior born to rescue our kind, then Yun Xiao is a monster that even the heavens and earth can''t contain! We should be thankful this monster is on our side!"

    The Supreme Marshal pped Qi Lan''s shoulder heartily. "With this in mind, why fear nder or public opinion storms? Following this young couple, we fight to the death! Haven''t we won every battle from Eternal Joy to the War of Immortals?"

    "You''re right!" Qi Lan nodded, then nced at the Supreme Marshal. "But don''t p so hard next time. If you cripple me, you''re responsible."

    "Cough, cough!" The Supreme Marshal shielded his eyes from the sun, "What a beautiful day!"

    "..." Qi Lan was speechless.

    Under the sunlight, Yun Xiao stretched his limbs, stabilizing his magic power after reaching the Establishment Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. Just one more breakthrough, and his magic power would fully transform into sacred power!

    "With this foundation for dual cultivation, the results can''t be bad, right?" Yun Xiao paused, then asked Blue Star, "How much longer does she need to prepare?"

    "About half an hour," Blue Star replied.

    "That''s plenty of time."

    This was the real chance to ascend to the heavens!

    Yun Xiao was somewhat excited.

    "At least now, I should be invincible under the Emperor level."

    Not just that, with his Sovereign Sword abilities, even Demon Emperors would struggle to kill him. How many days had it been since he arrived in the Heavenly Realm? Just four or five days. A major realm breakthrough each day, only his body double could barely keep up with him...

    "Senior Sister Zhao is probably still tipsy in Azure Spirit, while I''m here in the Heavenly Realm turning the world upside down." Yun Xiao couldn''t help but feel amused. With the Demon Continent''s army approaching, he wondered if Azure Spirit sensed anything,

    Next, Yun Xiao waited quietly for his dragon robe. But as the adage went, when the tree wants to stay still, the wind keeps blowing.

    Just as Yun Xiao wrapped up his solo cultivation session, a soldier from the Nine Heavens Immortal Army made a report. "Supreme Marshal, Sword Saint Yu Qian of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, with thousands of Violet Sky Sword Cultivators, is causing chaos at the Sword Dao Monument. They''ve killed many of our brothers and are trying to rescue the remnant souls of Ye Qingtian and the others!"

    "Dogsing to save dogs." Yun Xiao had tolerated this so-called number one sword of the Divine Continent for too long!

    "We can''t go; it might be a trap. There could be Demon Emperors lying in wait," Sword Saint Sun warned, his face stern.

    "The devils of the Endless Netherworld might be involved too," Nangong Xi added worriedly.

    The opponent was using the Sword Dao Monument again. And this time, with Sword Cultivators! What were they up to? Just as things were looking up on the dragon throne, these nuisances had to spoil the mood! They deserved nothing short of annihtion for running the happy moment of a new couple.

    "It''s not a trap; these Violet Sky Sword Cultivators are just buzzing flies!" Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "How do you know?" Sword Saint Sun asked, puzzled.

    "I have an inside man."

    "An inside man?" Everyone was slightly shocked. An inside man in the upper echelons of the Demon Continent?

    Before they could respond, Yun Xiao looked towards the Sword Dao Monument and coldly said, "Ye Qingtian has already knelt down; he won''t be allowed to stand again."

    "Yun Xiao, just wait half an hour. She asked you not to leave the pce," the Supreme Marshal said earnestly.

    Yun Xiao looked towards the pce, then suddenly rose on his Sovereign Sword. "She can''t control me yet!"

    <em>VROOM! </em>His speed on the sword was incredibly fast.

    Echoing in the air was a lingering promise! "I''ll be back in half an hour! tops!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 215: Killing the Fraudulent Number One Sword of the Divine Continent!

    Chapter 215: Killing the Fraudulent Number One Sword of the Divine Continent!

    Yun Xiao moved so swiftly that it left the Supreme Marshal, Sword Saint Sun, and the others a bit on edge.

    "The Nine Divine Guards are all off on their missions, what do we do now?" Su Lianlian asked, worry tinting her voice.

    The Divine Dawn Empress had just emphasized the gravity of the situation¡ªnot to let Yun Xiao out of sight.

    "No worries!" the Supreme Marshal said, his gaze deep and knowing, "He''s got his own rhythm. Let him shine!"

    "As long as it''s not a trap set by the demons or devils, it should be alright," Nangong Xi murmured, pursing her lips. "But Yun Xiao is alone, and Violet Sky boasts a thousand Sword Cultivators. I''ll shadow him discreetly, ready to back him up if needed."

    "Good! Stay safe, and use the Thunder Crystal formunication if necessary," Sword Saint Sun instructed, needing to stay behind to guard against a sudden attack on the Divine Dawn Pce.

    "I''m going too," You Yue announced.

    "This bunch from Violet Sky really gets on my nerves," Su Lianlian said, biting her lip, anger sparkling in her eyes. Clearly, she too intended to follow.

    "Yun Xiao can be impulsive. So, you three aunts keep an eye on him," the Supreme Marshal advised. He had faith in these three Tomb Masters.

    "Understood." Nangong Xi nodded, and the three women turned, their swords carrying them away. Unlike Yun Xiao''s shy departure, they flew low, weaving through the streets of the Heavenly Realm.

    Three aunties were on a covert mission, guarding from the shadows.

    "The sh between the two great sword lineages of the Divine Continent might reach its climax in half an hour," the Supreme Marshal said, watching them leave, his eyes shining.

    Sword Saint Sun''s eyes sparkled with sword energy as he dered, "The Sword Realm shall prevail!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Sword Dao Monument! Restored and re-erected, it stood tall before the gates of the Heavenly Realm. Looking towards the gates from this spot, one could see an ominous demon cloud gathering, filled with a billion snarls and growls, looming over the Heavenly Realm.

    It was an army of 100 million demons! Their demon fog was like an endless gaping maw, ready to devour the entire Heavenly Realm. And the Sword Dao Monument was their first target!

    Although the spirits of the billion ancestors had already entered the cycle of reincarnation, this monument remained significant for the Heavenly Realm, the Divine Continent, and humanity¡ªa symbol of spiritual faith.

    Now, a thousand Sword Cultivators in violet robes stood atop the monument, their clothes billowing, an aura of solemn might around them. They all grasped their shimmering Sword Souls, their des pointing defiantly at the sky!

    There stood Sword Saint Yu Qian, the so-called Number One Sword of the Divine Continent, a figure of unwavering resolve, his face stern and dignified. He had removed his hat, revealing a face with sharp,manding features, his entire being as sharp as the edge of a sword, exuding an air of righteousness.

    Before himy hundreds of battle-weary soldiers from the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. On one side stood elite Sword Cultivators, and on the other,mon soldiers, their strengths worlds apart. The soldiers didn''tst long against such odds, crumbling swiftly.

    Behind the two forces was the grotesque dog-headed human statue, imprisoning the spirits of over eight hundred thousand, their ghostly wails still piercing the air.

    Sword Saint Yu Qian, observing these young soldiers d in magic armor, pointed his sword! The longsword in his hand was the Upper Neb grade Violet Sun Sword Soul, burning like a violet sun with fierce mes.

    "Bunch of fools, blind to reality," Sword Saint Yu Qian scoffed with a cold smile. "Still so insistent on wasting your lives to cover for Divine Dawn''s folly? Is it worth it?"

    "Don''t listen to his nonsense! So what if he''s called the Number One Sword in the Divine Continent? He''s just anotherpdog of the demons!" Chen Mo bellowed. Bloodied and defiant, the fifth eldest of the Chen n red at Sword Saint Yu Qian. "Hold on, brothers, reinforcements wille! Trust in our Empress!"

    The few hundred soldiers of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, their youthful faces marred with blood, tightened their grip on their magic weapons. Confusion clouded their minds from the relentless battle.

    "Marshal Mo, are we really taking on the whole Demon Continent alone?"

    "People from Violet Sky say it''s our Empress who provoked this. The Demon Continent and the Five Immortal Empires are uniting against us, to root out a <em>cancer</em> in humanity..."

    "Did our Empress really err...?"

    Their courage wasn''t faltering, but with the Demon Continent''s army bearing down and Violet Sky''s Sword Cultivators mercilessly ughtering them, while the Divine Dawn Empress remained hidden in her pce, doubt began to seep in.

    In just a few hours, the morale built up from the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm had started to waver under the corrupting influence of demons and false demons.

    "Facing the Demon Continent alone is no concern; we do not fear death. But why are all Five Immortal Empires, our own kin, against us? Have we truly erred?" In this tumultuous Heavenly Realm, the young soldiers stood their ground, not out of fear, but confusion. Why did they stand alone? This wasn''t just their question; it was on everyone''s lips.

    "Nonsense!" Chen Mo''s eyes zed with fury. "Great deeds are never achieved by heeding deceitful whispers. Violet Sky and the demons are one and the same, traitors to humanity seeking glory. They deserve death. The other four Immortal Empires are being coerced by Violet Sky! All we can do is trust in Lil Xi... our Empress! She will step forward and clear the air for everyone!"

    "Yes...!" The resolve in the eyes of the hundreds of young soldiers from the Nine Heavens Immortal Army solidified once more.

    They hailed from the families of the Heavenly Realm, some even from the ny-nine territories of the lower realms, chasing dreams and glory, following Divine Dawn to join the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. Now, it seemed like the whole world was shaking their faith!

    "I, Chen Mo, may not be the most capable, unworthy of my Chen n heritage, but I''ve never once doubted my loyalty to humanity, to the Heavenly Realm, to my home!" Chen Mo roared, his voice nearly breaking.

    Standing before the gates of the Heavenly Realm, they looked back at theirnd, once a bustling world, now facing the onught of a hundred million demons, with traitors and demons dancing hand-in-hand!

    "How can we fall when our homes, our families, are right behind us?"

    It was this belief that steadied their hearts, corrupted by the storm of public opinion, holding firm in front of the Sword Dao Monument!

    "Who''s that man in green armor?" Sword Saint Yu Qian on the Stele coldly pointed at Chen Mo.

    "Your Excellency Sword Saint! We''ve identified him; he''s a big fish! He''s the fifth eldest of the Chen n, Chen Xiao''s brother!" a plump female Sword Cultivator in green robes respectfully reported.

    "Chop off his limbs, seal his wounds, and nail him to the Sword Dao Monument. Let him die slowly," Sword Saint Yu Qian ordered, pointing his sword at Chen Mo.

    "Yes!" The Violet Sky Sword Cultivators smirked.

    "Dispose of these Nine Heavens Immortal Army soldiers in the same way," Sword Saint Yu Qian added.

    "Sword Saint, is this really okay? Violet Sky hasn''t openly broken with the Heavenly Realm yet, has it?" the plump woman in green robes asked.

    The current conflict, on the surface, was between the Demon Continent and the Heavenly Realm, or even just between the Demon Continent and Yun Xiao! The Demon Continent''s army had mobilized, but they hadn''t formally dered war. They stillcked that banner!

    Unless the Divine Dawn Empress slew Yun Xiao in the afternoon, the war still wasn''t official. War banners were the heart of the humans and demons alike, shaping the fighting spirit of armies. A justified cause led to invincibility in battle!

    The Demon Continent had not officially dered open hostilities. Yet, the Sword Cultivators of Violet Sky, guests in the Heavenly Realm, were openly ughtering the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. It was like the eunuchs being more anxious than the Emperor. A line was being crossed!

    So, the female Sword Cultivator spoke up.

    "Divine Dawn''s stubbornness and her use of Yun Xiao to spark a war between the continents mark her as a war criminal of the ages! Her crimes are too numerous to record, undeniable and known to all. The Nine Heavens Immortal Army, mere pawns in this, and those discerning among the humans and demons must see them in! We of Violet Sky Sword Cultivators, leaders of the Sword Dao, bear the burden of the world''s people, striking the first blow for themon folk. To forge peace for generations, we Sword Cultivators dly embrace death. Attack!" Sword Saint Yu Qian dered, his voice resolute.

    "For the people, attack!" Thousands of Violet Sky Sword Cultivators dove in, swords shing, the air thick with killing intent.

    "For the people?" Such twisted words only fueled the rage of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army!

    Themon folk of Violet Sky were well known to be but cattle for the Demon Continent, yet these Sword Cultivators imed righteousness?

    "What shameless scoundrels!" Chen Mo had no choice but to lead his youngrades in a desperate counterattack, dying to defend their beliefs.

    "Dare to resist?" The female Sword Cultivator sneered, joined by five other Late Saint Realm Sword Cultivators.

    Six swords pointed at Chen Mo, still only at the Perfect Wind Fire Tribtion Realm. A single sword from one of them could kill him instantly. Yet, six were gunning, each vying for the <em>honor</em> of Violet Sky.

    "My dear niece¡­ Forgive your fifth uncle for being so useless. I''ll be going to the afterlife first!" Chen Mo muttered, tears welling in his eyes. All his life, he''d achieved little, relying on his older brothers for afortable life, yet always feeling stifled.

    Today, Chen Mo didn''t retreat. For him, it was a death without dishonor, not tarnishing the Chen n''s name.

    Tears flowing, Chen Mo thought of his family and the fate of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire and humanity, feeling a mountain''s weight on his chest, breathless with sorrow.

    "I don''t want to die; I want to see the false demons eradicated, the Demon Continent fall!" Chen Mo''s soul screamed with hatred. But the six swords were a death sentence. He wept, despairing. And the wielders of those six swords? Their faces were cold, their eyes scornful.

    "You bastards!" Chen Mo gritted his teeth, unleashing his magic weapon, choosing to die attacking rather than retreating!

    In that instant, a streak of azure sword light shot past, a harbinger of death itself, whizzing by their ears.

    With a series of sttering sounds, the Flying Sword, swirling with a storm of water, blood, wind, and thunder demon magic, struck the chest of the plump female Sword Cultivator in green robes. Like a four-colored raging dragon, it hit with such force that she was engulfed in a vortex of terror!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Her body exploded into a shower of blood and gore, scattering across the battlefield. Her eyes, bones, and organs sttered against the Sword Dao Monument!

    <em>SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT! </em>Then, like the grim reaper, the azure light pierced through several other top Sword Cultivators. They couldn''t even scream before being reduced to shreds, their remains littering the monument.

    Six top Violet Sky Sword Cultivators fell in one blow!

    "Constetion ying Sword!" Each of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army soldiers recognized that sword. Their dim eyes suddenly ignited with a roaring fire, their young faces beaming with fierce joy.

    "My nephew-inw!!" Chen Mo trembled with surprise and relief. Miraculously escaping death, he spun around and saw a young man in white descending from the sky, catching the unsullied azure Flying Sword.

    "Yun Xiao!" The soldiers of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army boiled with fervor. No matter the deceiving words spread about, the sight of this youth reignited their fighting spirit, soaring to the heavens!

    In the distance, Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian, who had been hurrying over, were taken aback by the scene. Their delicate bodies shook. Those six Violet Sky Sword Cultivators, only slightly less powerful than them, had been instantly in...

    "It seems we came for nothing," Su Lianlian murmured, her eyes unavoidably adoring as she gazed at the youth endowed with divine looks.

    "Let''s help him clear out some of the small fry!" Nangong Xi suggested, her eyes full of admiration.

    "I''ve been wanting to take down these Violet Sky scoundrels for ages. The Demon Continent hasn''t even made a move, yet thesepdogs dare to strike first at our Nine Heavens Immortal Army. They''re asking for death!" You Yue''s eyes glittered fiercely.

    They had crossed swords with the Violet Sky Sword Cultivators too many times to count. For over a decade, they had tolerated their despicable acts! But now, with Yun Xiao leading the charge, why hold back?

    The three women exchanged nces, transforming their white, blood-red, and pink Sovereign Swords into Palm Swords. With three-foot des in hand, they charged towards the group of Violet Sky Sword Cultivators!

    In front of the Sword Dao Monument, Sword Saint Yu Qian was taken aback at his first glimpse of Yun Xiao.

    "The great war''s about to start, even Divine Dawn''s hiding in the Primordial Formation of the Heavenly Realm, and here you are, out alone?" Sword Saint Yu Qian asked. He was genuinely surprised! Where did this couragee from?

    What if the demons and devils hadid a trap? Yun Xiao would be doomed. That said, they hadn''t set any traps, predicting he wouldn''t dare to show up!

    It was beyond Sword Saint Yu Qian''s wildest dreams that Yun Xiao would appear so easily¡­ He regretted his earlier inaction. But then, the thought struck him. Capturing Yun Xiao would make him the greatest hero across both the Divine and Demon Continents!

    "Capture him, and only Divine Dawn remains in the Heavenly Realm. It''ll be an easy victory!" Sword Saint Yu Qian narrowed his eyes, fixating on Yun Xiao. "But, how has he grown stronger?"

    What kind of monster was this?

    Sword Saint Yu Qian had just faced Yun Xiao''s sword in the War of Immortals. Back then, Yun Xiao''s magic power was far inferior to his!

    Now, without a word, Yun Xiao charged from the Sword Dao Monument, covering several hundred meters in a step! The Violet Sky Sword Cultivators blocking the way were effortlessly sliced into fragments before even getting close.

    The young man in white, his sword soaring to the heavens! The will of the sword in his eyes was so sharp it made one''s heart quiver. It seemed this youth wasn''t human but a colossal sword piercing through the heavenly pces!

    "A mere boy dares to cross swords with me?" Sword Saint Yu Qian''s gaze turned icy. "I am the number one Sword Cultivator of all ages!"

    Yun Xiao was already on him!

    <em>HUM! </em>A stab of the Palm Sword, and the Night March of a Hundred Ghosts ensued! Behind Yun Xiao a shadow like that of the Demon Emperor covered the sky, ny-nine crimson eyes locking onto Sword Saint Yu Qian''s soul!

    A frightening 500yers of roaring azure Sword Aura converged in Yun Xiao''s de, striking with explosive force!

    Sword Saint Yu Qian, in a desperate move, raised his Violet Sun Sword Soul to block!

    <em>KLANG! </em>Sword Saint Yu Qian, brimming with the might of the Establishment Saint Realm, thrust his force into his sword, aiming to overpower Yun Xiao with his superior magic power!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Their swords collided, sending Yun Xiao reeling back as if he''d hit an iron wall. But it was the Sword Saint who screamed in agony! His face twisted in pain, tears streaked his cheeks as he howled. Though his body stood firm, his Violet Sun Sword Soul cracked with dense web-like fissures, and blood from the sword poured down.

    "AGGHH!" The pain in his soul made the Sword Saint''s eyes turn red, his tears streaming, his face of righteousness crumbling in a single blow!

    "Your Sword Aura, forged from the weak and sickly demon corpses given by the Demon Continent, is indeed flimsy!" Yun Xiao taunted with a raised eyebrow, mocking the Sword Saint. "With such a pathetic Sword Soul, you dare call yourself the Number One Sword of the Divine Continent?"

    "You whelp, using the power of your Sword Ring, you''re the actual one keepingpany with demons. How dare you, who relies on external forces, insult my swordsmanship!" Sword Saint Yu Qian, crushing a me orb that shot up like a firework, signaled for help. Clearly, though he was talking tough, he was still calling for backup.

    Meanwhile, the three aunts, leading the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, plunged into the ranks of the Violet Sky Sword Cultivators!

    With the Heavenly Realm Sword Cultivators clearing the path, the frail Sword Souls of the Violet Sky Sword Cultivators, deceiving themselves and others, crumbled at the first strike!

    "I y demons, absorb their essence, refine the Sword Ring, and you call that cheating? Then tell me, what is a true Sword Cultivator?" Yun Xiao, unfazed by the signal re, coldly smirked. He was not at all intimidated by the impending reinforcements.

    "A true Sword Cultivator strengthens oneself through the sword, seeking no external aid, only cultivating the heart and sword. The stronger the heart, the stronger the sword!" Sword Saint Yu Qian retorted coldly, stalling for time. His words were strained, wracked with the pain of his shattered Sword Soul.

    "Is that so? Then why do you absorb demon corpses for your Sword Aura? By that logic, wouldn''t you be stronger without it?" Yun Xiao replied coldly.

    "..." Sword Saint Yu Qian was left speechless! He wanted to fight, confident in his magic power and swordsmanship, but the disparity in the toughness of their Sword Souls left him at a disadvantage.

    Just then, a violet storm suddenly rose in the distance, a tornado touching the skies, carrying debris towards the Sword Dao Monument.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The violet storm reached the clouds, obscuring almost a third of the sky in Yun Xiao''s view! It was an Emperor level power!

    The Violet Emperor had appeared! His presence was nearly indistinguishable from the legendary Divine Dawn and Eternal Joy!

    "Yun Xiao, by openly killing the guests of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, you dere war upon us! My Violet Sky''s mighty army will tten your Heavenly Realm!" The Violet Emperor''s grand voice blended with the storm, reverberating through the air!

    "Your Majesty!" Sword Saint Yu Qian''s eyes gleamed with relief. Without a second thought, he abandoned the fight, leaving his fellow Violet Sky Sword Cultivators behind, fleeing swiftly.

    "Yun Xiao, you''re still too naive. A few words to buy time, and you fell for it?" Sword Saint Yu Qian sneered.

    As the Violet Emperor descended and Sword Saint Yu Qian fled, Nangong Xi and the others grew anxious. Yun Xiao should have finished off the Sword Saint when he had the chance. Why waste words with a scoundrel?

    "Nine Heavens Immortal Army, retreat!" Yun Xiao suddenlymanded, ncing at Chen Mo, "Move!"

    "Yes!" Chen Mo, though not skilled in many things, excelled in boasting about his nephew-inw. At Yun Xiao''smand, he didn''t hesitate, leading the Nine Heavens Immortal Army away from the fight.

    This left only Nangong Xi and the two other women behind.

    "Yun Xiao, run!" Su Lianlian urged anxiously as she fought.

    "Run?" A cold light shed in Yun Xiao''s eyes. Far from fleeing, he suddenly propelled his Sovereign Sword towards Sword Saint Yu Qian.

    Sword Saint Yu Qian and the Violet Emperor were drawing closer!

    "This kid''s gone mad¡­!" Nangong Xi''s heart raced in the darkness.

    "He''s so fast! That''s... the Gxy grade Sovereign Sword technique!" You Yue eximed, eyes wide.

    "No way?" Su Lianlian''s heart fluttered.

    The three women watched as Yun Xiao''s Sovereign Sword transformed him into a swirling de, tracing a path of stars, as if entire star systems rotated around his sword! This was a neb!

    This was the sixth sword of the Constetion ying Sword. Another Sovereign Sword technique, even stronger than Fleeting Moon!

    Sword Saint Yu Qian, sneering as he fled, suddenly felt a deadly threat looming!

 Chapter 216: Extinguishing a Lineage!

    Chapter 216: Extinguishing a Lineage!

    "What?!" Sword Saint Yu Qian whirled around, his heart skipping a beat, almost losing his soul in sheer terror!

    Yun Xiao appeared behind him, as if treading on a rotating neb. At that moment, the young man in white seemed like the master of the stars! This was no mere mortal! He was the deity of the sword!

    Such a nightmarish vision! Even before the sword struck, it felt as though hearts were pierced!

    "You!" Sword Saint Yu Qian let out a growl, transforming his Sovereign Sword to a Palm Sword, turning to strike at Yun Xiao. At the same time, he bellowed to the Violet Emperor, "Save me!"

    <em>Violet Sky Sword Canon, Violet Nova!</em>

    This was Sword Saint Yu Qian''s prided Gxy grade sword technique, a legacy of the Violet Sky Sword Cultivators, refined through generations!

    Without mincing words, Sword Saint Yu Qian''s swordsmanship was intricate, his sacred power overflowing. This strike, simr in level to the Constetion ying Sword, transformed in his hands into a dazzling Violet Nova, shing with Yun Xiao''s Starbirth Neb!

    One symbolized the death of a star; the other, the birth of myriad stars!

    "Die!" Sword Saint Yu Qian roared.

    "Oh." Yun Xiao, his feet on the Sovereign Sword, spun amidst the stars. His six-foot sword furiously pierced Sword Saint Yu Qian''s technique! It was like cavalry crashing into infantry!

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    The tip of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul tore through the Violet Nova. It didn''t matter how mighty Sword Saint Yu Qian''s sacred power was. His damaged Violet Sun Sword Soul shattered instantly!

    <em>BANG! </em>The Number One Sword of the Divine Continent exploded into dust!

    "UGH!" Sword Saint Yu Qian''s soul shattered, his eyes turning lifeless. Barely alive, only his spirit clung to a sliver of thought. And that thought could only listen to the young man''s cold, disdainful words.

    "I let you stall for time just to y you in front of the Violet Emperor, you unfilial Sword Cultivator!" As Yun Xiao spoke, the six-foot Sovereign Sword crashed into Sword Saint Yu Qian''s chest!

    <em>BANG! </em>The Sword Saint''s body burst into a cloud of blood!

    "Ahhh ahhh..." Sword Saint Yu Qian''s cries before death spoke of his lingering regrets.

    As a Sword Cultivator, spending a lifetime groveling under demons, how could he not feel stifled? Of course, he was stifled! But he grewcent and numb, deceiving others and himself in the end. So, a demon yer like Yun Xiao was a living testament that he''d lived a life devoid of worth and purpose. How could he ept that?

    Yun Xiao showed no mercy to such people.

    "Your life was pitiful, but what''s that to me?" With a single strike, he killed the Number One Sword of the Divine Continent. He gracefully maneuvered his Sovereign Sword, his white robe fluttering as he spun around.

    "Yun Xiao!" The Violet Emperor, witnessing his most trusted aide shredded to pieces, was enraged.

    It was a humiliating death!

    Lacking in Sword Aura and Sword Rings at the Establishment Saint Realm, Sword Saint Yu Qian was undoubtedly weaker than his non Sword Cultivator contemporaries.

    With a fat piece of meat like Yun Xiao dangling before him, and now the humiliating death of his closest aide, the Violet Emperor could hold back no longer. <em>BOOM! </em>He unleashed his Violet Sky Descent daoist spell, his body swirling into a relentless storm, forming a violet storm phoenix in the sky.

    This thing was simr to the Divine Dawn Empress'' thunderous arms in might!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The storm phoenix pped its wings, whipping up fierce winds, dirt and rivers swirling before Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    Luckily, there were no buildings nearby, or they would have been ttened!

    "You think you can escape?" The Violet Emperor coldly controlled the storm phoenix, swooping towards Yun Xiao like a hawk hunting a rabbit.

    "Not only can I escape, but I can also kill again!" Yun Xiao, hands behind his back, feet on his Sovereign Sword, darted effortlessly through the air. His swordsmanship was like treading on a spinning neb.

    The Violet Emperor''s storm phoenix swiped at him, but Yun Xiao remained untouched! His mastery of Starbirth Neb, this Gxy grade Sovereign Sword technique, had reached a pinnacle!

    This scene was like a p in the Violet Emperor''s face. Never in his wildest dreams did he imagine that in a few short days¡­ Yun Xiao would reach a level that even he couldn''t touch!

    "He''s an even bigger monster than Divine Dawn!" The Violet Emperor shuddered inwardly. Divine Dawn never made him doubt himself, but Yun Xiao''s indifferent attitude struck a heavy blow to his heart.

    "You want to continue, huh?" Yun Xiao taunted with a flick of his finger, a cold smile ying on his lips. Then, he plummeted down on his Sovereign Sword!

    <em>HUM! </em>He stood atop the Sword Dao Monument, his Sovereign Sword instantly morphing into a Flying Sword.

    "You can''t catch me, and I''m about to take out your men!" Yun Xiao dered, flinging his Flying Sword. Again, he unleashed Meteor Showerbined with the Ten-Step Scale!

    The Flying Sword shimmered with a blinding light, even radiating the divine luminance of the sun and moon.

    "Get out of the way!" Yun Xiao shouted to his aunts as he cast a daoist spell.

    <em>Elemental Scripture, Unite!</em>

    <em>SWELL SWELL SWELL! </em>On the Sword Dao Monument, golden mists swirled, fireballs zed... and an Elemental Sphere shimmered in the sky. This magic power sphere, over 300 meters in diameter, nearly matched the might of the Violet Emperor''s storm phoenix!

    Yun Xiao could dodge the Violet Emperor, but the six hundred plus Violet Sky Sword Cultivators couldn''t dodge him!

    In an instant, the Elemental Sphere and the deadly Flying Sword descended from the Sword Dao Monument.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The magic power sphere smashed into the crowd first, its elemental forces of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth exploding, sting a huge crater almost 1000 meters wide at the base of the monument!

    "No!" The Violet Sky Sword Cultivators'' eyes widened in despair, swallowed by the elemental forces, torn apart, obliterated, crushed to dust! Those lucky enough to initially escape with their techniques were soon pierced through the heart by the precise Flying Swords.

    <em>POOF POOF POOF! </em>Blood spurted, and they were gone!

    With the Elemental Sphere and the Flying Sword wreaking havoc, only less than a hundred of Sword Saint Yu Qian''s elite swordsmen remained, all maimed, missing limbs.

    Their broken bodies screamed in agony, their terrified eyes fixed on the young man in white atop the Sword Dao Monument. Their bodies were alive, but their souls were shattered with fear.

    "Your Majesty, flee! Take everyone back to Violet Sky. He''s a monster of the heavens, defying all norms..." an old Sword Cultivator cried in despair before breathing hisst.

    This scene was witnessed clearly by the distant Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    "Spread the word! Yun Xiao single-handedly annihted the entire lineage of the Violet Sky Sword Cultivators!"

    "Right in front of the Violet Emperor, no less!"

    "Spread the word, quick!"

    In the face of the propaganda assaultunched by the Violet Sky Immortal Empire against the other four great Immortal Empires, this news burst forth like a sword of dawn piercing through darkness.

    It might not have reversed the tide for the human race of the Divine Continent, but it certainly stabilized the raging battle spirit of the Heavenly Realm cultivators and the Nine Heavens Immortal Army!

    Nangong Xi and the others were utterly bewildered.

    "We really worried for nothing¡­" Nangong Xi watched the young man in white, torn betweenughter and tears.

    "Just a few days, and this kid has grown from a sapling to a towering tree!" Su Lianlian reminisced about his battle with Ye Xingchen, which seemed like just yesterday.

    "Watch out!" You Yue suddenly cried in rm.

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    Looking up, they saw the Violet Emperor, enraged by the ughter of his men. In his fury, he set his sights on the three of them! Unable to kill Yun Xiao, the Violet Emperor would take out hispanions!

    "We were trying to help, but it seems we''ve only made things worse¡­" Nangong Ximented.

    Despite this, the trio braced themselves to face the Violet Emperor''s onught.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The storm phoenix suddenly veered towards them!

    "Scatter!" Nangong Xi shouted, preparing to flee in three different directions.

    "Hold still!" But in that split second, a white figure on a Sovereign Sword streaked past them.

    "Excuse me!" Yun Xiao swiftly reached out, grabbing two waists, while addressing Nangong Xi, "Auntie, hold onto me!"

    They were all stunned.

    What was happening?

    Nangong Xi instinctively wrapped her arms around him from behind!

    <em>VROOOOOM! </em>With a flick of his Sovereign Sword, the four soared skyward!

    Yun Xiao, with one in each arm and one clinging to his waist, maneuvered the Sovereign Sword like stars traversing the sky. They brushed past the storm phoenix, soaring upwards with ease!

    It''d bemon sense to think that Yun Xiao''s speed would be hampered when carrying three extra passengers. But he flew effortlessly, unaffected! And mind you, these weren''t light girls; there was some substantial weight on his arms and waist...

    "What?" Su Lianlian dangled her legs, ncing at the hand on her waist, her hair whipping in the wind.

    "This¡­" You Yue looked up, seeing Yun Xiao''s earnest face, and couldn''t help but feel a mix of amusement and disbelief.

    Nangong Xi showed more propriety, steadying herself to stand on Yun Xiao''s Sovereign Sword. Just a slight hold on the young man''s waist was needed, unlike her two sisters, who were carried in his arms, losing some of their dignity as elders...

    But, everyone escaped unharmed! Despite the slight impropriety, the trio of aunts all heaved a sigh of relief.

    "Yun Xiao, sorry we couldn''t help and ended up causing you trouble," Nangong Xi said, feeling guilty.

    "No need to apologize. He should thank you. Otherwise, who would he show off all his skills to?" Blue Star chimed in childishly.

    "That''s right! Without beauties, loneliness is like snow! Swordy in front of a beauty makes the sword thrice as sharp!" Red Moon added.

    Hearing this, the three beauties knew it was the little ck creature in his arms speaking.

    Nangong Xi smiled wryly. "Yun Xiao, you''re quite serious, but your little pet seems a bit cheeky."

    "Yes, my fault for not disciplining them properly," Yun Xiao inwardly cursed them ten times over.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao turned sharply, his gaze once again falling on the furious Violet Emperor!

    Yun Xiao was now far away from him.

    "Yun Xiao, you brazenly killed the pirs of my Violet Sky Immortal Empire! Inciting war between our Empires! You''ve created a huge disaster..." The Violet Emperor, knowing he couldn''t kill Yun Xiao, didn''t bother trying.

    "It was your Violet Sky people who unjustly harmed our Nine Heavens Immortal Army first. Dare you y the victim?" Nangong Xi retorted coldly.

    "Really? Who saw a single Nine Heavens soldier fall?" Behind the Violet Emperor, hundreds of Violet Sky officials gathered, his voice growing louder. "Yet this Yun Xiao, before my eyes, killed my aide, Sword Saint Yu Qian, and thousands of Sword Cultivators, witnessed by the public!"

    "So what?" Yun Xiao asked with a coldugh.

    "The pirs of my Violet Sky Immortal Empire cannot die in vain. To avenge them, my millions-strong Violet Sky army will soon march to the Heavenly Realm, to seek justice for them!" the Violet Emperor dered coldly.

    "You''re mistaken, aren''t you? Right now, I''m just a death row convict of the Heavenly Realm, soon to be punished by the Divine Dawn Empress. What does my killing your Violet Sky dogs have to do with the Heavenly Realm? And you''re mobilizing millions of troops for this?" Yun Xiao shrugged. "Besides, I''ve just started killing. Your Violet Sky army is already nearly here. Could you have predicted a day ago that I would ughter them right now?"

    "The whole world knows of your wild ambitions, yet you seek a banner to mask your demon-infested, wicked hearts! Pathetic andughable!" Nangong Xi spat.

    As for You Yue and Su Lianlian, they stayed silent, understandably a bit breathless.

    "Yun Xiao," the Violet Emperor said coldly, "Divine Dawn''s protection of you has angered righteous hearts from both the Divine and Demon Continents! Now, hundreds of millions of demon troops and my millions from Violet Sky will descend upon the Heavenly Realm to uphold justice! The other four great Immortal Empires will soon join us. You, Yun Xiao, a murderer, are a scourge. Without your death, themon people will suffer!"

    "Excellent." Yun Xiao gazed at him coldly. "I see it now, you''re starting to fear me. Your continued coercion of the other four great Immortal Empires and the entire Divine Continent to support you reveals your inner terror."

    "Ha ha ha..." The officials from Violet Sky Immortal Empire scoffed.

    No matter, Yun Xiao''s words were meant to provoke theirughter. Then, he said slowly and deliberately, "There mighte a moment when you''ll want to switch sides, kneeling before me begging for mercy. But sadly, you won''t get that chance. You''re a bunch of self-proimed smart, pitiful creatures. Right now, you''re smug, but no matter who wins, you''re all doomed! If I win, even kneeling won''t save you, Violet Emperor. This dog-headed human statue will be your fate."

    "Ha ha ha..." The people from Violet Sky Immortal Empire continued tough uproariously.

    "You winning? Is this war some kind of child''s y to you?"

    "I''m dying ofughter here."

    "Let me tell you, even if the entire human race perishes, our noble Violet Sky families will stand tall! The Demon Continent needs us. That''s the true foundation of the strongest Immortal Empire of the human race!"

    Watching these boisterouslyughing fools, Yun Xiao sighed inwardly. All of them were humans, yet why did some live engulfed in their own delusions? In the end, it boiled down to one thing¡ªfrom the beginning, they admired the power of the demons, ingrained deep in their bones. Kneeling for too long, they couldn''t stand up even if yanked.

    Yun Xiao had no intention of helping them up. Since their knees had grown numb from kneeling, he thought it better to chop off their heads and ce them on their knees! Just like Ye Qingtian and his group!

    "Yun Xiao,e back!" Just then, a shout came from the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array. It was the Divine Dawn Empress! She had sorted everything out! Judging from her voice, she was furious and impatient, unable to wait any longer!

    "My wife calls for me." Yun Xiao gave the Violet Emperor onest look. "Remember, you have no right to surrender!" With that, he swiftly maneuvered his Sovereign Sword, taking the three beauties with him, rushing back to the Divine Dawn Pce in haste.

    To the unknowing, it seemed as if he was hurrying to reincarnate. But this matter was even more urgent than reincarnation¡­ Though he left, his final words still echoed in the ears of the Violet Emperor and his entourage.

    "Ha ha ha..." The officials from Violet Sky Immortal Empire continued their bellyughs.

    But the Violet Emperor''s face was clouded with deep worry and difort! "The Demon Continent is targeting Divine Dawn, little knowing that Yun Xiao is even more ruthless and demonic..." he murmured to himself.

    Yun Xiao had struck right at the Achilles'' heel of the Violet Emperor. He had thought, with the support of the Divine Continent and as a member of the human race, even if he lost, he could still find a way out. Kneeling and bowing his head might allow him to bask in glory again.

    But Yun Xiao saw right through him! This was unbearable for the Violet Emperor! Just then, an elderly official from Violet Sky Immortal Empire rushed in with urgent news.

    "Your Majesty, there''s trouble!" the elder said, his face ashen.

    "What''s happened?" A chill ran through the Violet Emperor.

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    "The location of the captured royal family members from the other four great Immortal Empires has been exposed, and they''ve been rescued by Divine Dawn''s Nine Divine Guards!" the elder reported, trembling.

    "What?!" Finally, the Violet Emperor''s face contorted in shock!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 217: Yun Xiao On Top of Divine Dawn

    Chapter 217: Yun Xiao On Top of Divine Dawn

    An army of several hundred million demons swarmed like a dark cloud over the Heavenly Realm! Amidst the sinister fog, countless insects, beasts, nts, and resentful spirits with ghastly faces howled and wailed, their presence chilling to the bone.

    Ghouls and ghosts, stirring trouble in the hearts of men!

    On another front stood the Violet Sky Immortal Army, with their millions of well-trained soldiers d in violet magic armor. They shone like the rising sun, their divine radiance and formidable presence like a breath of fresh air!

    To the uninformed, it might seem like these two forces, one a several hundred million-strong horde of demons and the other a majestic army, were bitter enemies. But, surprise, they were actually allies. Whether it was the swirling demon cloud or the floating ranks of the Immortal Army, their destination was the same¡ªthe Heavenly Realm.

    The Violet Sky Immortal Army alone was renowned, on par with the Nine Heavens Immortal Army of the Heavenly Realm!

    The shadow of this imminent disaster loomed over the Heavenly Realm and the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire, heavy like a mountain range pressing down on every soul.

    In the streets and residential areas of the Heavenly Realm, cultivators stepped outside their homes, looking up at the sky, their eyes brimming with worry.

    "Rumor has it, the other four Immortal Empires are about to join the fray against our Heavenly Realm."

    This news spread among the ranks of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army and the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm.

    The children, with confusion in their eyes, asked their parents, "Dad! Mom! Why is the whole world against us?"

    "Aren''t those who follow the right path supposed to have more support, and those who lose it, less?"

    "Are we the baddies..?"

    "But demons harm people, don''t they? Yun Xiao fought them honorably in the War of Immortals!"

    "Why can''t the other humans of the Divine Continent stand with us, in a fair and square fight?"

    These questions, not even their parents or elders could answer.

    They bowed their heads, silent for a long time.

    "War is a gamble, they''ve bet that the Demon Continent will win! Just like we bet on the demons winning the War of Immortals a few days ago..."

    That was the only answer the parents could muster.

    "If the Demon Continent wins, our Heavenly Realm will fall, and we''ll lose our homes, right?" the child asked.

    "Yes."

    "Then... Dad, will I die?" Fear and a deep longing for the world flickered in the child''s eyes.

    "With Dad here." The man held his child, his heart full of unsaid words, all converging into this simple assurance.

    "Where is the Empress? Why hasn''t she spoken out yet? Is it true, as the rumors say, that she''s lost in love, drowning in her own desires, blind to the plight of her people? Is she feasting and reveling while the enemy stands at our gates? Is she a negligent ruler?" The child parroted what he''d heard. He was young, but he understood more than most. These troubling thoughts confused him.

    "Listen, son," his father said. "Remember this: in times of war, all the conspiracy theories you hear are just the enemy''s ploy to weaken our spirit. After all, a hated enemy deserves no mercy orpassion. The more you lose the will to fight, the happier the enemy. They don''t have to lift a finger to fool us!"

    "Really¡­?" But no matter what his father said, the boy couldn''t shake the feeling that the recent explosive revtions and gossip about the Divine Dawn Empress didn''t seem like mere fabrications.

    And he wasn''t the only one in the Heavenly Realm feeling this way. Confusion led to hesitation, and hesitation meant weapons stayed sheathed.

    Fortunately, at that moment, news spread like wildfire. Yun Xiao, in front of the Sword Dao Monument and in the presence of the Violet Emperor, had in a thousand Violet Sky Sword Cultivators and defeated Sword Saint Yu Qian!

    Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn! These names once again echoed throughout the Heavenly Realm.

    Seeing the lifted spirits of their parents, the children couldn''t yet grasp the depth of their love for their nation and people¡ªa force beyond anything. But at least, the children''s fists were now clenched...

    Suddenly¡ª

    <em>DONG DONG DONG! </em>Three thunderous bell tolls suddenly reverberated through the Heavenly Realm! The urgent, fierce sound of the bell was like zing fire, igniting the blood of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army and the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm!

    Millions of heartbeats synchronized with the bell.

    "The Primordial Bell?" Yun Xiao, returning from the Sovereign Sword Stele, saw a gigantic white bell rising into the sky, appearing above the clouds of the Heavenly Realm! Its three rings ignited something in Yun Xiao, setting his blood aze!

    "Is she about to make a statement to the world before taking action?" Yun Xiao hovered in the air on his sword, with Nangong Xi and his two other aunts beside him, all gazing upwards.

    There, atop the Primordial Bell, stood a young girl in a golden-red dragon robe and a crown adorned with nine pearls. A blood-red thunderous spread from the bell, captivating millions of onlookers.

    Even from the Ancestral Temple, all the demons looked up to the highest point in the sky!

    Now, she no longer hid her face. She was Chen Xi, the Divine Dawn Empress!

    "All hail our Empress!"

    Seeing her, the confused eyes of the Heavenly Realm''s inhabitants finally glimpsed the first ray of dawn in a dark future!

    Humming resonated through the air!

    In the next instant, centered around the Primordial Bell, the Primordial Array spread out from the direction of the pce, instantly sweeping across the entire realm. It was like a protective charm descending upon every citizen of the Heavenly Realm!

    The only ce left untouched by the Primordial Array was the Ancestral Temple.

    From that moment on, to reach any other part of the Heavenly Realm from the Ancestral Temple, one had to pass through the Primordial Array!

    The several hundred million-strong demon army and the millions of soldiers from the Violet Sky Immortal Army, too, would need to break through this formidable array to descend.

    This vast and domineering thunder-fire array was a relic of ancient human civilizations, rumored to be created by Immortals during their earthly visits, with the Primordial Bell as its activating core.

    The War of Immortals battlefield was actually a part of the Primordial Array. And this array was the pride and faith of tens of millions of souls residing here! It was the Divine Dawn Empress who had awakened it! How else could the Divine Dawn Empress, a stranger with an unknown origin, rece Ye Qingtian as Emperor?

    In ancient times, when the Heavenly Realm was the capital of the entire Divine Continent, as per the ancestral rules, ringing the Primordial Bell meant ruling the entire Divine Continent, not just the original Azure Leaf Immortal Empire.

    The Divine Continent had only one Heavenly Realm and only one Primordial Array!

    This was all a part of the Divine Dawn Empress'' power y. From the moment it was activated, the Demon Continent could no longer rest easy.

    And now, the activation of the Primordial Array, especially with the deliberate exclusion of the Ancestral Temple, was a move that shook the very soul of everyone who witnessed it!

    "War is upon us!"

    Before this moment, rumors swirled that the Violet Sky and Demon Continent armies were only pressuring the Divine Dawn Empress to execute Yun Xiao to make a statement.

    The Azure Leaf faction''s remnants were everywhere, spreading vile rumors about Yun Xiao!

    Now, as the grand array unfurled, thunder and fire swept through the Heavenly Realm, searing every heart, burning those deceitful words to ashes!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Just then, the Primordial Bell let out a deafening ng, shaking the streets, stone bs, and ptial structures of the entire realm!

    "I am the Divine Dawn Empress, heed my call!" Her majestic voice, apanying the bell, resonated throughout the Heavenly Realm.

    "We heed the Empress!" In the streets of the Heavenly Realm, countless people who had been hiding emerged under the protection of the Primordial Array, their eyes zing as they looked toward the pce of Divine Dawn.

    Above the skies, the Divine Dawn Empress proimed, "In ancient times, the Divine Continent was peaceful and prosperous. But since the Demon Continent''s rise, ournds have faced endless turmoil and suffering. In the great war between humans and demons, a billion Sword Cultivators met their end, bringing disgrace upon our race for generations.

    "To this day, the Divine Continent still suffers under the scourge of demons. In just one region, hundreds of thousands of innocent lives fall victim to them yearly! ces like the Heavenly Realm and the Violet Sky Imperial Capital may thrive, but who knows of the suffering in the mortalnds?

    "Previously, the Ye Royal Family ruled, noble ns flourished, colluding with demons, betraying their own for gain, indulging in luxury while ignoring the people''s plight. The Violet Sky Immortal Empire, recognizing demons as allies, poisoned our people. The Divine Continent''s illness has festered for generations!

    "Now, demons attack our hearts, not needing an army. They consume human flesh, drink human blood, and devour human souls. The current poption of the Divine Continent is barely a tenth of what it once was. If this continues, within generations, our human race in the Divine Continent will be extinct, reduced to dust and ashes, leaving only mournful spirits and eternal regret!"

    The Divine Dawn Empress'' words, like enlightening nectar, poured into the souls of millions!

    Generations of indoctrination by noble ns had left many cultivators in the Heavenly Realm unaware of the true state of the mortal world.

    Even when confronted with the brutal truth, many still couldn''t believe that the <em>friendly</em> demons could be so cruel!

    Ye Qingtian and the Violet Emperor had lulled the noble human ss into a false sense of peaceful years.

    But when the Divine Dawn Empress used the Primordial Bell as her rion call, and the deration of war as her decree, officially announcing her intentions to the world, every word she spoke carried the power to spread across the Divine Continent, conquering the opinions of the noble ns in every Immortal Empire!

    The promation shattered any well-meaning notions the citizenry had about the demons. Why didn''t they have any allies? Who was really at fault? These questions were answered in the first half of her war promation.

    Millions in the Heavenly Realm, overwhelmed with sorrow for their race, had eyes red with fury! Without confusion, their battle spirit surged like a tidal wave!

    And at that moment, the woman in the dragon robe above the clouds, her presence zing with thunder and fire, swept across the heavens!

    <em>DONG! </em>The Primordial Bell rang out once more! Apanied by the bell, her majestic voice rose again!

    "Today, the Demon Continent''s several hundred million-strong army and the Violet Sky''s millions of treacherous pseudo-demons approach, yet they have not struck. Instead, they seek to dissolve our spirit and push me into an abyss of sin with their deceitful words. Their wicked ambitions must awaken the world! I am born of heaven''s decree, bearing the mandate of the Primordial Mother to descend among mortals, to y demons and eradicate evil as my sacred duty!

    "You, the people of the Heavenly Realm, living in the most prosperousnd of the Divine Continent and enjoying the highest privileges, must lead our race! Now, as the enemy stands at our gates, we are the first to face the brunt! Glory to those who die in battle, shame to those who cower!

    "The weight of an individual is light, but that of an Empire and race is heavy! As cultivators, we shall wrap our corpses in horsehide and die for ournd! So, at this moment, on the 29th day of the 10th month in the 379th year of the Divine Continent''s New Origin era, I, leading 58 million devoted soldiers of the Heavenly Realm, dere to all cultivators, regardless of gender or age, that we officially wage war against the Demon Continent and the Violet Sky Immortal Empire!"

    The Divine Dawn Empress waited not for the Demon Continent or Violet Sky''s response! Nor did she deal with Yun Xiao! Before the enemy could strategize and demoralize the Heavenly Realm, she, with her extraordinary resolve, took the initiative and dered war!

    Had the enemy struck first, the Heavenly Realm would have been cast as the invaded. But her deration of war ignited the fiercest fire in the hearts of the Heavenly Realm''s cultivators, pushing their spirit andbat strength to their most explosive limits.

    These two segments of the war promation shook the souls of the Heavenly Realm. Looking around, a fiery zeal surged through thousands, setting the streets aze with fervor.

    From that moment on, any false rumors vanished like smoke under the scorching sun! Whether children, adults, or the elderly, as pioneers of the human race in the Heavenly Realm, anyone fearless in the face of death was a warrior.

    The chaos wrought by demons was something they hadn''t truly experienced. But now, with the enemy at the gates and peaceful years gone, if they fell now, who would pave the way for theirnd and race?

    It was a battle with their backs to the river. No retreat!

    Beneath the Heavenly Realmy the countless lives of ordinary beings!

    Just as millions of Heavenly Realm cultivators and soldiers of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army were set aze with passion, suddenly, four masked figures in ck, from different directions, stood behind Divine Dawn!

    "They''re four of the Nine Divine Guards!"

    "They''ve always followed Her Majesty, her most loyal and trusted aides¡­"

    What were they doing there at this moment?

    <em>DONG! DONG! DONG! DONG! </em>To everyone''s astonishment, the Primordial Bell rang four more times! After the fourth toll, the four Divine Guards reached up and removed their masks. Too far for most to see clearly, the identities of the figures behind the Divine Dawn Empress were a mystery, but their voices were unmistakably familiar to man. They were all famous!

    One of the elderly figures stepped forward, amplifying his voice through the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Bell, thunderously dering, "I, from the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire, pledge to follow Divine Dawn''s lead, to y traitors, exterminate demons, purge the mortal world, and restore peace and prosperity to the Divine Continent!"

    "It''s the Treasure Emperor!"

    His promation sent shockwaves through the Heavenly Realm.

    Another ruler of an Immortal Empire, serving as one of Divine Dawn''s Nine Divine Guards for so long¡ªwhat did this signify? It meant that the Spirit Treasure Immortal Empire had never wavered, never been swayed by Violet Sky. The Treasure Emperor had long decided to fight for the human race!

    "And there''s the Clear Emperor, Martial Emperor, and Desert Emperor!"

    The Emperors of the other four great Immortal Empires were all Divine Dawn''s Nine Divine Guards!

    "We, representing the four great Immortal Empires, will follow the Heavenly Realm''s lead and also dere war on Violet Sky and the Demon Continent!"

    Their mere presence and revtion at this moment, regardless of the size of their armies, would drastically alter the significance of this battle! Before, the Heavenly Realm stood alone, a solitary hero. But now, united with five Immortal Empires, who could say they had no allies? This was not just the Divine Dawn Empress'' ambition; it was the collective will of the human race!

    At this moment, the real ironyy with the Violet Sky Immortal Empire. The Divine Dawn Empress'' words had ignited hearts, and the actions of these other four Immortal Empires bolstered everyone''s conviction!

    Previously, they were resigned to a noble death, with little hope for victory. But now, they were filled with thoughts of triumph! The Heavenly Realm was thoroughly aze with fervor! The spirit of battle boiled over!

    "Wow, she''s incredible¡­" Yun Xiao stood nearby, gazing up at her magnificence, utterly awestruck. He had once been a ruler of a small nation, but as he embarked on the path of cultivation, he increasingly became a lone swordsman. The way the Divine Dawn Empress rallied the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm, almost doubling theirbat power, was something Yun Xiao could not achieve.

    She was a born sovereign of the people, and Yun Xiao knew he was not. Watching her golden-red dress flutter in the sky, and the fiery determination in the eyes of that young woman, Yun Xiao felt a stir of emotion.

    "Aren''t you the one who prefers in, real mortals over heavenly fairies?" Blue Star teased.

    Yun Xiao paused, then shook his head. "It''s just admiration."

    "Admiration is also a feeling," Blue Star said.

    "Is it?" Yun Xiao himself couldn''t quite grasp these feelings. His rtionship with her was moreplicated than with Zhao Xuanran, his fellow disciple, shaped by three dual cultivation sessions. He hadn''t liked her at first; it was merely a mutual benefit.

    But now, he felt this young woman had taken up a significant space in his heart, yet he was still puzzled. It seemed there was a barrier between them, unknown and unspoken. Even though the blood-pumping deration of war excited him, it didn''t change his resolve.

    "Your mission isplete, now rest; it''s my turn," Yun Xiao muttered to himself. He entered the pce, standing beside the dragon throne, waiting for her to descend.

    The Divine Dawn Immortal Empire had developed a three-part strategy against the enemy¡ªderation, action, and finally war! Thankfully, the first part had gone off without a hitch. Chen Xi had managed to seize the initiative away from the demons by dering war first. Now, it was just a matter of keeping this momentum going!

    "Here shees!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The pce doors shut. Candles zed, and electricity coiled around! The woman in the golden-red dragon robe and the crown with nine pearls, dragging her bright red dress, approached him with a cold, predatory gaze, like a white tiger opening its jaws at Yun Xiao...

 Chapter 218: Big Brother, I Dont Want to Die!

    Chapter 218: Big Brother, I Don''t Want to Die!

    Back in the Ancestral Temple, the millions of demons fell silent. They had heard the Divine Dawn Empress'' promation and the thunderous roarsing from the streets of the Heavenly Realm.

    It was clear that the words of the Divine Dawn Empress had struck a deep chord in the hearts of the masses, overpowering the Demon Continent with sheer aura in a masterful stroke of psychological warfare!

    The silence of millions of demons was witnessed by all¡ªthe Violet Emperor, the four Demon Emperors, and the three devils from the Endless Netherworld, they all saw it!

    The Violet Emperor and hundreds of officials from the Violet Sky Immortal Empire watched coldly as the four Nine Divine Guards unmasked themselves.

    Wei Feng, the Prime Minister of Violet Sky, said with a dark expression, ¡°The moment their families are saved, they rush to show themselves. Do they really think they can fully control their four Empires?¡±

    ¡°Having been followers of Divine Dawn for so long, they would have stood up even if their families weren¡¯t saved,¡± the Violet Emperor said indifferently.

    ¡°I never thought these four old fools would have such a strong belief in Divine Dawn,¡± Wei Feng sneered.

    ¡°To plead for themon folk, such a noble act. What¡¯s a few of our people''s deaths inparison?¡± the Violet Emperor spoke in a low voice.

    ¡°Your Majesty?¡± Wei Feng was slightly startled. ¡°You seem worried?¡±

    The Violet Emperor let out a slow breath and shook his head. ¡°No need to worry. Once we''ve chosen this path, looking back is but an abyss. If they are noble, we are vile. Let''s y our parts well.¡±

    With a cold chuckle, he continued, ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter anymore. In the end, when the Heavenly Realm falls and the other four great Immortal Empires are reshuffled, I, as the sole Emperor of the Divine Continent, can write the history myself. I¡¯ll cken these pieces of trash into the annals. You were born by divine decree? I¡¯ll have future generations curse you as being born of a demon!

    ¡°Whoever holds the pen of history, holds the mandate of heaven!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Elsewhere, in a dark underground pce, the War Princess with ck hair and red eyes also listened to the Divine Dawn Empress'' deration of war through a window, her eyes shining faintly. She couldn¡¯t help but extend her bright red tongue, stretching it so long it could even touch her ear.

    "So beautiful," she murmured.

    ¡°If the princess wishes, we can leave her alive,¡± a man in a ck robe said with a smile.

    ¡°Hmm, maybe as a little maid. Keep her.¡± The War Princess smiled faintly. ¡°I always love tender girls. Their blood is the most delicious.¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Back in the Divine Dawn Pce, tens of thousands of dense, blood-red lightning snakes intertwined around the grand hall. The pce had turned into a thunder pool!

    The Nine Divine Guards, the Supreme Marshal, Sword Saint Sun, Nangong Xi, Zhao Xuanjian, and other human powerhouses were stunned in front of the pce.

    "What in the world are they doing in there?" Su Lianlian, her cheeks glowing hotter, asked the Supreme Marshal, listening to those odd noisesing from inside. As she spoke, the pce trembled like a leaf in the wind, the ground cracking like an old man''s back.

    The Supreme Marshal, feeling like his heart was being squeezed through a lemon squeezer, gritted his teeth and spat, "How the hell should I know!"

    "Boy, our girl sure is feisty. Starting a war and then pampering her man to boost the spirits," Zhao Xuanjian said, his eyes wide as saucers.

    "I''ll pamper your father!" The Supreme Marshal, red as a beet, choked him in a fit of rage.

    The crowd couldn''t help but snicker.

    "Supreme Marshal, a grown girl''s gotta get hitched. They''re a match made in heaven, truly admirable," Nangong Xi consoled.

    "Get hitched? Why don''t you three go get hitched?" Sword Saint Sun rubbed his temples like he was trying to wipe away a bad dream.

    "Erm..." Su Lianlian quickly interjected, "Leave me out of this, I''m not even thirty yet, still a spring chicken."

    Nangong Xi thought for a moment, then bit her lip. "Our people aren''t yet safe, we''re too humble to forget the nation''s woes, always putting state affairs first."

    "Bah, look at that fifteen-year-old." You Yue couldn''t help but blush with shame.

    Here was this fifteen-year-old, leading the human race to war against demons and pretenders, then starting another battlefield right on the dragon throne, while the over-thirties stood outside just listening.

    In this era, it was normal to have kids at this age. But still, this was way too young.

    At the pce gate, there were two critters. One, a dark creature with long horns and deep blue eyes, not quite a cat, not quite a dog. And a little white tiger, looking mighty as can be.

    "Look! This is what we''ve been growing secretly!" Red Moon suddenly blurted.

    "Mamma mia!" Blue Star''s face turned as red as a cherry, hastily trying to muzzle that blockhead.

    "Heh." The little white tiger gave them a nce.

    "You''re called Pomelo?" Blue Star tried to change the subject.

    "Scram." The little white tiger lifted its head, not in the mood to bother with them.

    "Hey! We''re trying to be polite here, and you get all huffy?" Blue Star got riled up, "What¡¯s with the act? Your master''s about to bawl."

    "Heh, let''s see who cries," the little white tiger snorted.

    "Huh?"

    About half an hourter, the two beasts and the group of elders outside felt something odd.

    "Something wrong?"

    The little white tiger''s expression changed, the <em>King</em> character on its forehead wrinkling, its eyes shifting.

    "Ha, our brother''s won big!" Blue Star wasughing when suddenly its face changed too. "What''s going on?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the pce, atop the dragon throne, wild lightning danced around the two figures.

    "Yun Xiao, it''s time for you to start anew," Chen Xi said softly, gazing at him. Her eyes were half-closed, her face flushed red as if she was about to faint.

    "What do you mean?" Yun Xiao looked down at her, his voice as calm as a summerke.

    "I need your strength to y demons. You recover quickly. Once I conquer the Demon Continent and eradicate the demons, the Empire, the glory, everything will be yours. Help me rebuild the human world, protect the people in my stead," she said, her voice faltering.

    "And where will you go?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Her gaze was distant, lost. "I''ll end my life at the Sword Dao Monument, joining those who''ve been sacrificed..."

    "What if we win? Must you still end your life?" Yun Xiao frowned slightly.

    "Victory or not, there are always sacrifices. Eternal Joy has already cost a million lives... these are my sins..." Her head lowered, sorrow palpable, her delicate frame trembling.

    "Nonsense, this isn''t your fault," Yun Xiao moved closer, whispering earnestly, "Remember our ranking on the Ascension Board? You lost to me. Without my consent, you can''t die."

    Chen Xi shook her head, her eyes dimming. "No, death is my destiny. I must die."

    "For heaven''s sake! Are you sick in the head?" Yun Xiao said, exasperated. Despite his scolding, she remained lost in her distant gaze. After a while, her eyes grew more intense, a determination emerging.

    "You''ve absorbed so much of my Yin Void power. It''s time you return it..." As Chen Xi spoke, Yun Xiao could feel his Yang Void power being drawn from him, bridging towards her.

    "Return it, my foot. Rest, and stop this death-seeking nonsense," Yun Xiao said. Her words only strengthened Yun Xiao''s resolve. He said no more, suddenly channeling the Primordial Void Technique. The magic power in his Dantian swirled like a zing sun, drawing the vast power from her body like moths to a me.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Chen Xi couldn''t absorb a single bit of Yun Xiao''s power. Instead, her own sacred power poured out like a dam had burst.

    In just an instant, the magic power in Yun Xiao''s Dantian surged! Another leap in strength was on the horizon!

    Chen Xi''s face, still crowned with the nine-bead diadem, changed dramatically. "You! What the..." Her eyes went wide with shock.

    "You made a blunder," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "No! This can¡¯t be!" Her face suddenly frosted over with cold fury. A wave of murderous intent surged from her eyes!

    "You can''t escape this. It''s inevitable," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Ignorant mortal, how dare you defy my destiny!" Her eyes zed with blood-red lightning, anger and divine wrath pouring forth.

    "Why are you so mad? Can''t you just start over?" Yun Xiao was baffled. Her rage was beyond his expectations.

    "Born of a heavenly decree, descended to protect humanity, and you dare disrupt my fate?" She lunged, her nails digging into his flesh as lightning seared down! Luckily, most of her power was already swallowed up by Yun Xiao; otherwise, she might have snapped his neck right there!

    "Have you gone mad? Turning on me like this?" Yun Xiao called out in surprise. She was actually trying to kill him! He was utterly dumbfounded. A conversation would have sufficed, why resort to murder?

    <em>SLAP! </em>Unable to kill Yun Xiao, she instead pped him across the face. Her eyes turned strange, a mix of confusion and fury, her beautiful face contorting! She red at Yun Xiao, her red lips parting to utter a solemn chant. "Primordial Mother of the Dao, savior of the suffering, dispeller of cmity, protector of the Dao in the human world!"

    This chant echoed endlessly in Yun Xiao''s ears, nearly driving him insane. Then, she seemed to freeze, her face stern and imposing, staring intently at Yun Xiao, repeating the chant over and over. "Primordial Mother of the Dao, savior of the suffering..."

    "Never mind, just rest," Yun Xiao said. She was behaving too bizarrely. And he, not understanding the situation, continued to draw on the Primordial Void Technique to absorb her power. During this process, tears streamed down her eyes, looking at Yun Xiao with immense sorrow and fury.

    "Why the tears now..." Yun Xiao was on the verge of madness. It was one thing to have an equal struggle, but now she was crying, tugging at his heartstrings. But he was powerless to stop it!

    "Dispelling cmity¡­" she murmured through tears.

    <em>BANG! </em>Suddenly, the grand doors of the pce burst open with a crack, and a little white tiger charged in.

    "Ignorant mortals, daring to harm the savior of the suffering!" The little white tiger roared, transforming into a streak of white light, and mmed into Chen Xi''s delicate body.

    With that collision, they were forcefully separated. This abrupt interruption of their cultivation sent unruly power surging through Yun Xiao. Blood spurted from his mouth, his flesh torn asunder, the pain driving him to his limit. And the girl was in the same state!

    "What!" Yun Xiao''s mind went nk.

    "Yun Xiao..." She suddenly called out, her voice filled with utter confusion and fear.

    "I''m here!" Yun Xiao stood up, only to see her floating in the air, like a kite with its string cut.

    <em>HUM! </em>Behind her, the Primordial Bell opened, turning into a swirling vortex adorned with countless runes.

    These runes vaguely formed words¡ª

    ¡¸<em>Primordial Mother of the Dao, Primordial Immortal Ancestor, Ancestor of the Human Race, Diviner of the Universe, Embodiment of the Arcane, Holder of the Dual Forces of Sun and Moon, Shaper of the Ultimate Reality. Sitting upon the throne, with four majestic heads and eight mighty arms, saving all beings!</em>¡¹

    As the vortex appeared, Chen Xi''s eyes lost their human spark again, and she resumed her chant. Then, she drifted towards the vortex!

    This sight tore at Yun Xiao''s heart.

    "Quick! Kill her!" Blue Star''s voice, frantic to the extreme, suddenly rang in Yun Xiao''s ears.

    "What did you say?" Yun Xiao red at Blue Star, then reached out to grab her.

    The vortex emanated a power beyond the mortal realm, pulling Yun Xiao along with it.

    "She''s the Primordial Immortal Ancestor''s incarnation of transcending cmity! If you don''t kill her now, your path to Immortal Dao is doomed! Kill her to preserve her consciousness from this life, or she''ll truly vanish, reduced to a mere thought in the Dao!" Blue Star was almost spitting blood in his urgency.

    "Kill! Brother! Kill her now!" Red Moon howled.

    "Kill..." Half of her body was already swallowed by the vortex!

    <em>What incarnation of </em>transcending <em>cmity? What thought of the Dao? </em>Yun Xiao''s heart was convulsing. <em>What was happening¡­? </em>He grasped his Sword Soul tightly, his eyes trembling as he gazed at the girl, lost in her chant.

    "Primordial Mother of the Dao, savior of the suffering¡­"

    "Chen Xi!" Yun Xiao''s throat burned as he called her name.

    At that moment, her chanting lips quivered slightly, her eyes opening a fraction, whispering, "Big Brother, I don''t want to die..."

    Yun Xiao''s heart shattered.

    "Kill her!" Blue Star shouted, near fainting as Chen Xi was about to vanish into the vortex.

    Chen Xi didn''t want to die! But to save her, Yun Xiao had to kill her!

    Yun Xiao bit his lip, crying out in anguish, and thrust his sword through her heart! "Ugh..." With that strike, his eyes turned bloodshot, his strength drained, copsing to the ground with a thud. Before him, the girl''s eyes dimmed forever.

    "No! No!" The vortex wailed, shrinking to a walnut-sized white bell that fell to the ground, its light fading. And the girl''s lifeless body fell from the air.

    Yun Xiao, trembling, caught her in his arms.

    "Can we meet again..." In herst moments, Chen Xi tugged at Yun Xiao''s clothes, but before he could answer, her delicate hand fell. Her beautiful eyes slowly closed.

    "We can! We can!" Yun Xiao screamed with all his might. Could she hear him? No one knew. Since his parents passed, he hadn''t felt such torment. His feelings for Lady Hua Lian were more guilt and pity, after all, he had used her. But this girl in his arms, she was different.

    Before Yun Xiao could take another look at her, her body transformed into a wisp of blue smoke and vanished! Finally, she solidified into a white crystal in his hands.

    "That''s great!" Seeing the white crystal, Blue Star let out a sigh of relief and burst into joyfulughter.

    "What are youughing at?" Yun Xiao brought it closer to his eyes.

    "You don''t want her to die, right? Well, she''s not dead!" Blue Star said, lips curled.

    "Not dead? She''s turned into a stone¡­" Yun Xiao''s eyes were red.

    "Exactly! That means she''s alive!" Blue Star said with certainty.

    "..." Yun Xiao was stunned. He took a deep breath and sat on the steps in front of the dragon throne.

    The Supreme Marshal and the others were still outside, clueless about what had happened inside, not daring to enter.

    Yun Xiao had to ask them to wait a bit longer! He calmed his emotions, carefully cradling the white crystal, then asked Blue Star, "What exactly happened? Exin it to me!"

    "I didn''t expect she was the Primordial Immortal Ancestor''s incarnation of transcending cmity! I thought she was just a lucky girl who received a small part of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor''s teachings¡­" Blue Star said somewhat incredulously.

    "What''s an incarnation of transcending cmity?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s like a reincarnation! You could say she is the Primordial Immortal Ancestor, well, a part of her," Blue Star exined.

    "She''s the Primordial Immortal Ancestor?" Yun Xiao felt a bit relieved, thinking that if she was that, she probably wouldn''t die...

    "Sort of, but not entirely... Frankly, an incarnation of transcending cmity of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor shouldn¡¯t fall in love or cause karma in the mortal world. That''s why I didn''t think of it before. Maybe because you''re the Creator Immortal, she unconsciously broke her vows!" Blue Star mused.

    "You''re something else, Brother! She once waited outside your door for eons, and you ignored her. Now, right after your rebirth, you got together with her. Back then, she admired you so much, wanted to call you ''Brother,'' but you insisted on being called ''Master.''" Red Moon chuckled mischievously.

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless. His heart was aching, and these two were rambling on?

    "What exactly is this incarnation of transcending cmity?" Yun Xiao looked at the crystal in his hand.

    "Hmm¡­ How do I exin this in a simple way." Blue Star said, scratching its head. "Back when you were a mortal Emperor, you know all those stories you read about a Hero or Chosen One appearing when the world faces a dire threat? She''s basically that.

    "The Primordial Immortal Ancestor is the ancestor of humanity. So, she naturally protects all humans. Just like the words she chanted. When humans in certain realms face cmity from foreign threats, she uses the Heavenly Decree Curse to split her body. She reincarnates in that realm to ovee the cmity, descending to the mortal world to dispel misfortune and protect humanity. I thought it was odd how much this girl resembled her, turns out she really is her!"

    "That''s possible?" Yun Xiao was bewildered.

    "Not many know this. But it can''t escape our eyes." Blue Star chuckled.

    Yun Xiao pondered, "This is good, right? How does it conflict with me? I''m also fighting for humanity."

    The matter of being the Creator Immortal seemed too distant for him, and he had no grudge against the Primordial Immortal Ancestor. Hearing that she, the ancestral deity of humanity, had reincarnated herself to protect humans, he even felt a fondness for her, because of Chen Xi.

    "But it conflicts greatly with you! You were about to drain her power, breaking the Heavenly Decree Curse, shattering her destiny. Her incarnation would have been reabsorbed, and once that happened, the Primordial Immortal Ancestor would know of your existence. You''d be gone! Forget about bing the Creator Immortal... And, once the incarnation is reabsorbed, her consciousness would be absorbed by the Primordial Immortal Ancestor, bing one in a billion. Then she''d truly be gone," Blue Star exined calmly.

    Chen XI returning to the Primordial Immortal Ancestor was the same as death!

    "Brother, now you see why she was always seeking death? It''s the destiny bound by the Heavenly Decree Curse. All incarnations of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor, afterpleting their mission, will find various reasons to end their lives and return to the source. Even if you had incapacitated her, as long as the cmity facing humanity is resolved, she''d only do one thing in her lifemit suicide. You can''t stop her from dying," Blue Star said, his lips curling.

    Unless onepletely restrained Chen Xi, making her immobile, it was impossible to stop someone destined to die.

    "What about now?" Yun Xiao asked, holding the white crystal.

    "The Heavenly Decree Curse is broken, and you killed her before solving the cmity facing humanity. It means a failed relief. Umon for the Primordial Immortal Ancestor, but it happens asionally. Even if she reincarnates again, it''ll take fifteen years for the next Divine Dawn to be born. Besides, once you resolve the crisis here, she won''t intervene... In short, she has many incarnations, all automatic, you get it?" Blue Star exined.

    "And then? How does she be alive?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "That''s easy. This is called a Cmity Transcending Crystal, her memory storage. You just need to find another incarnation, and I can help you insert this crystal into it, awakening her consciousness," Blue Star smiled.

    "Then you can continue ying the lover game with the Primordial Immortal Ancestor in secret, Creator!" Red Moon said with a mischievous grin.

    "This is soplicated..." Yun Xiao felt heavy-hearted. How was he supposed to know when he would encounter another incarnation of transcending cmity?

    "This is her only chance to live," Blue Star sighed. "You got emotionally involved with her, so your path as the Creator Immortal is bound to get tangled with the Primordial Immortal Ancestor."

    ".." Yun Xiao fell silent.

    "ept your fate. To attain enlightenment by killing your wife, that''s the path to heaven," Blue Star said gravely, patting Yun Xiao¡¯s arm.

    "Get lost," Yun Xiao was still far from calm.

    "To remake yourself as the Creator Immortal, you''ll eventually have to devour the Primordial Immortal Ancestor! It''s a ruthless path. And let me tell you, she''s destined to die, and you must pierce her heart with a sword, just like today, because she is a traitor! The mastermind who set the n in motion to divide and conquer you!" Blue Star dered coldly.

    "Evil! Vile! Devious woman! Spurned and thenshing out in fury," Red Moon sighed. "Creator, if you had epted her earlier, it wouldn''t havee to this."

    ".." Yun Xiao didn''t respond. His silence grew longer.

    "What are you thinking about?" Blue Star asked.

    "I''m pondering a question," Yun Xiao said.

    "What''s that?" Blue Star and Red Moon asked.

    Yun Xiao looked towards the pce gates and said, "In this infinite universe called the Dao Realm, where many races coexist under a set of rules, our human ancestor personally reincarnates to protect and bless us... Isn''t this Dao Realm fine as it is?"

    "And then?" Blue Star''s voice grew somber.

    "What''s it got to do with me? Why should I recreate myself as the Creator Immortal? To kill all the Six Ancestral Gods and rebuild the world order? Why rebuild when everything''s fine?" Yun Xiao was confused.

    "..." Blue Star and Red Moon fell into a deep silence.

    "What do you think?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Brother," Blue Star pointed outside, "Divine Dawn is gone, the Primordial Array is broken, and you haven''t absorbed much power. With both the Divine and Demon Continents at war, you should first think about how to protect your people."

    "The Primordial Array is gone?" Yun Xiao picked up the now-dim white bell.

    "So, don''t you see?" Blue Star pursed his lips, "From the arrival of the heavenly energy, to the Great Merciful Tribtion shattering the Demon Continent''s barriers, and now Divine Dawn''s failed cmity relief, the disappearance of the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array... all this indicates that you''re just a variable, not a savior."

    After hearing this, Yun Xiao held them in his embrace, sword in hand, looking out at the chaotic world. "Let''s not jump to conclusions. We''ll see as we go."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 219: Nine Hells Contends for the Heavens, the Dao of the Sword Reigns Supreme!

    Chapter 219: Nine Hells Contends for the Heavens, the Dao of the Sword Reigns Supreme!

    The Demon Continent was a primordial, deste floatingndmass. It was all rugged mountains and wild ridges, overrun with grass and trees. Beasts roamed, gnawing on flesh and drinking blood, vying for their next meal in and where cities were about asmon as water in the driest deserts.

    Deep abysses and rivers housed countless demon caves, where groups of mighty demons ruled the roost. The Great Merciful Tribtion had swept through, turning the eastern part of Demon Continent into a veritable inferno. And right smack in the center of this hellish ce, where the void was frail and the universe twisted like a pretzel, one could just make out the flicker of sword light.

    Right then, a tiny vortex of light started shaking like a leaf in a storm.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Out of this shimmering swirl fell a pitch-ck snake corpse,nding with a thud that could wake the dead. Its eyes rolled back, its body crisscrossed with sword wounds.

    Then, quick as a sh, a sword light zipped by, and a figure in white stepped out from the vortex,nding on this vast, darknd. The man was middle-aged, dressed in flowing white robes, exuding an air that was out of this world. He stood above thendscape, hands sped behind his back, as if he owned the ce.

    Beneath his feet floated a six-foot Sovereign Sword, surrounded by an incredibly dense Sword Aura and many Sword Rings. Layers of mist swirled around it, obscuring theyers of the Sword Aura and the number of Sword Rings. One thing was clear, though, there were a lot of both. A whole lot.

    "This continent..." The man in white gazed across the Demon Continent with a pair of sharp, prating eyes, a flicker of curiosity dancing within their depths.

    "Master, wait for me!" Another streak of sword light pierced through the vortex. This time, it was a charming, adorable young girl. Her six-foot Sovereign Sword was adorned with four Sword Rings, and the number of Sword Aurayers was over 600!

    The girl was endearing and lively, her expression animated. Arge, striking azure bow was tied at her lower back, impossible to miss.

    "Huh?" Upon reaching the man in white, the girl with the bow looked curiously at the Demon Continent and said in a puzzled tone, "After breaking through the barrier, a continent appears in the fold of the Nine Hells Realm? How about that?"

    "Mhm." The man in white nodded, guiding the girl around the area with his Sovereign Sword. "The aura of immortal energy here is rather meager. Seems like it''s home to some residual demons, but they''re no biggie."

    "That doesn''t sound too promising." The girl pouted. "One look and you can tell, it''s a ce of filth and decay."

    The man in white didn''t reply but simply withdrew his Sovereign Sword andnded on the ground.

    "Master, I''m in a hurry to attend the Sword Baptism Ceremony. Shall we head back to Eternal Sword Prison?" The girl seemed somewhat distracted.

    "We have plenty of time, no rush," the man in white said, his attention fixed as he walked across the rugged mountains.

    "Oh, okay." The girl with the butterfly bow followed him, but she didn''t touch the ground. Instead, she used a magic barrier to iste herself from the air of the Demon Continent, which she found utterly disagreeable with its filth and stench.

    "Qian Die!" the man in white suddenly eximed, "Come here."

    "Master?" The girl looked puzzled as she approached.

    "Look at this ground!" The man''s eyes zed with an intensity that could start a fire.

    Qian Die followed his gaze and saw a patch of ground where dirt and rocks seemed to have been wiped clean, revealing ayer of dark violet crystal that shimmered with a mysterious violet light.

    "Is this an Immortal Crystal vein?" The girl''s eyes sparkled with excitement.

    But to her surprise, the man in white shook his head. "No, it''s not."

    "Then it''s worthless," she said, disappointed.

    Without another word, the man in white waved his sword, and the earth rolled away like waves, revealing more of the violet crystal ground.

    "Try attacking it with your Sword Soul," he instructed.

    "Alright!" Qian Die nodded, and her six-foot Sovereign Sword transformed into a Palm Sword, stabbing down fiercely. Sparks flew everywhere with a ng!

    "Ouch," she winced, her eyebrows knitting together in frustration. Her Sword Soul couldn''t make even the slightest mark on the violet crystal surface.

    "Even the highest grade Immortal Crystals wouldn''t be this hard..." Qian Die said in disbelief.

    <em>KLANG! </em>The man in white also struck the violet crystal ground with his Sword Soul, only to have it bounced back.

    "Master, even you can''t leave a mark? What is this ground made of?" Qian Die''s eyes widened in astonishment.

    "It''s not just this patch of ground. The core of this entire continent is made of this material!" the man in white said, sheathing his Sword Soul but visibly shaken. He turned to the girl, his eyes burning with intensity, "Die''er, have you ever heard of the legend of the Heavenly Land?"

    "Heavenly Land?" The girl pondered, then said dazedly, "The legend says that the nine hells of our Nine Hells Realm originated from the Heavenly Land, which is the foundation of our realm?"

    "Exactly!" The man in white nodded, his eyes deep and thoughtful.

    Qian Die was stunned for a moment, then looking around, she shook her head and chuckled, "Master, that''s just a legend. This is just a fold in the world of the Nine Hells Realm, not even aplete world. How could the Heavenly Land possibly exist in such a ce?"

    "Because it''s unexpected, it might have remained undiscovered for so long..." The man in white looked up, his gaze burning as he surveyed the vastnd. "In the battle for supremacy of the Nine Hells, the Sword Dao reigns supreme! If this truly is the Heavenly Land, then this time, our Eternal Sword Prison will be at the forefront of the struggle!"

    The girl, Qian Die, couldn''t quite grasp his burning ambition for supremacy. She was at a loss as to what this Heavenly Land really meant.

    "Master, this destend has nothing, and we can''t even scratch the surface of this ground... What use could it possibly have?" she asked quietly.

    The man in white chuckled at her question. "The wonders of the Heavenly Land are beyond your imagination. It just needs to be unearthed slowly. Without it, there''s no Nine Hells Realm. As the foundation of the Nine Hells Realm, it is everything!"

    "Is it really that extraordinary?" Qian Die bit her lip, still struggling to wrap her head around it. She whispered, "Master, then the value of this information... must be incredibly high, right?"

    "I''ll inform the Eternal Sword Prison immediately," the man in white said, patting Qian Die''s shoulder gently. "Don''t worry, your name will be included. But once you''re back, keep your mouth shut and wait for the decision of the elders."

    "Thank you, Master!" Qian Die''s eyes sparkled with joy.

    "And how will you repay me?" The man in white moved his hand from her shoulder to her cheek, gently pinching her earlobe.

    The girl trembled slightly, bowing her head.

    "Be good tonight, understand?" he said with a smile, looking at her youthful face.

    "Yes..." she hummed softly.

    "Don''t worry, as long as you behave, Mu Heng will never find out," he assured her.

    "Yes..." As she thought of that sunny, carefree young man who was wholeheartedly devoted to her, Qian Die took a deep breath and murmured, "Well, it''s not like you can offer me much of a future anyway..."

    Meanwhile, the man in white had already risen on his Sovereign Sword.

    "Let''s first see if there are any other entrances here," he said.

    "Do you think the other eight Hells have discovered this ce?" Qian Die asked softly.

    "Hard to say. This ce is a fold between the Eternal Sword Prison and the Endless Netherworld. We''ve had a barrier breach on our side, so those despicable devils might have found a way in too..."

    The man in white looked on with an icy gaze.

    <em>VROOOM! </em>They soared into the sky on their Sovereign Swords, gliding over the Demon Continent.

    In just a few hours, they had scoured numerous regions and interrogated a handful of demons.

    "No word from the other eight Hells yet." The man in white breathed a sigh of relief.

    "These demons mentioned there''s another continent below, and they''re at war? Are our human race down there?" Qian Die, having spent too much time in this foul-smelling Demon Continent, was getting restless.

    "I wonder if there are any Sword Cultivators down there?" He peered below, his eyes piercing through endless clouds. "It seems the aura of Immortal energy is richer on thatnd below."

    "Even if there are Sword Cultivators, their ranks probably aren''t that high. After all, it''s just a foldednd," Qian Die remarked.

    "Let''s go down and see."

    Two streaks of sword light plummeted from the sky. Their speed far surpassed the marching pace of the 100 million-strong demon army. The sword lights shot through the clouds with incredible velocity. Soon, an army of over 100 million demons came into view.

    Gazing at the fierce, wild demons, the man in white remained unfazed. His eyes then fell on another group, humans in violet magic armor. "They''re brave, aren''t they? A million human cultivators daring to fight against 100 million demons?" Qian Die was somewhat surprised.

    "You''re mistaken, they''re together," the man in white said with a coldugh.

    Qian Die was baffled. "That''s way off the mark!"

    Then, from the spherical Heavenly Realm below, came a deration of war amplified by the Primordial Bell of the Heavenly Realm.

    "An ancient era where a billion Sword Cultivators went to their deaths?" The man in white furrowed his brows deeply.

    "It seems this foldednd has our Eternal Sword Prison''s doctrine," Qian Die noted.

    "This Empress has quite the presence." The man in white observed from a god-like vantage point, his gazending on a massive mountain of blood and flesh.

    "There''s a corpse demon!" His frown deepened.

    "A corpse demon? That''s disgusting... Master, can we leave now?" Qian Die asked nervously.

    "You''re not nning to lend a hand to the humans?" the man in white asked, eyeing her.

    Qian Die nced at the horde of 100 million demons and said, "These filthy demons might taint the purity of my Sword Soul... I''ve never in such dirty things."

    "Oh?" The man in white didn''t say much. After a moment of silence, he added, "This corpse demon is indeed a tough nut to crack. It''s the type that gets stronger the more you kill it. You need a special Demon Refining Cauldron to truly vanquish it. The message has been sent back to the Eternal Sword Prison. Someone will bring the cauldron soon... Let''s first head to this pocket universe and see what''s going on."

    The master-disciple duo quietly entered the Heavenly Realm.

    Just then, the Primordial Array of the Heavenly Realm had just disappeared.

    "This human world is not too shabby. It has everything it needs," Qian Die finally felt a bit morefortable as the two strolled the streets. Eventually, they entered a tavern.

    "Owner, bring us some wine," the man in white called out.

    The tavern owner, already donned in magic armor, looked at the odd pair and said, "War''s about to break out, and you''re in the mood for drinking?"

    The man in white smiled. "Wine to embolden the spirit, to ughter the demons. Three bowls down, and the sword''s might grows eightfold!"

    "Alright then!" The owner brought up several jars of wine, his eyes filled with worry. "The Primordial Array suddenly vanished. I don''t even know if I''ll be alive tomorrow. The wine''s on the house!"

    After saying that, the owner left the tavern to join the battle.

    "The spirit of total war, not bad." The man in white, leaning against the window, watched the storm brewing over the Heavenly Realm city, sipping his wine and observing.

    "Master." Qian Die, who didn''t care for alcohol, stood up and said, "I''ll take a walk around."

    "Go ahead! Signal with your sword if there''s trouble," he replied.

    Qian Die walked a few steps, then turned back to ask, "So, we''re not going to help them out first?"

    The man in white chuckled lightly and said, "You''re still too green."

    Qian Die thought resentfully, <em>Would you like me if I weren''t green, you perverted old man?! </em>But she dared not say it out loud.

    The man in white took a sip of wine and looked out the window, musing, "The so-called saviors always appear when people are most desperate. That way, they''re remembered most vividly. And when is that moment of despair? When nearly half have fallen in battle, and the world is on the brink of copse. Then, the Sword Gods of our Eternal Sword Prison will be mining the Heavenly Land above, while the beings below sing praises of me¡ªGu Baiyi, the Solitary White Robe, and my great deeds. Beautiful, isn''t it?"

    "..." Qian Die was struck speechless.

 Chapter 220: Ten Day Siege!

    Chapter 220: Ten Day Siege!

    In the royal pce, Yun Xiao stood before the Supreme Marshal, Chen Xiao, with a dilemma. How could he exin this bizarre turn of events? The war had just been dered, and right after the young folks had gotten down to business, Yun Xiao had to break the news: "Your daughter... she''s gone."

    He couldn''t mention anything about the Primordial Immortal Ancestor or the Creator Immortal.

    "She was a reincarnated true Immortal," Yun Xiao finally said after a long silence, his voice deep and solemn. "She triggered a mark and had to return... and she left the rest to me."

    The Supreme Marshal was dumbfounded, staring at Yun Xiao with wide eyes. After a long pause, he asked, "You''re not pulling my leg, are you?"

    "No," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Gone back? Gone back where?" The Supreme Marshal asked through gritted teeth.

    "To a realm beyond our mortal understanding, I suppose," Yun Xiao said.

    "Will she ever return?" The Supreme Marshal''s voice trembled with the question.

    "Definitely! You''re the father of an Immortal; she''ll surelye back to see you," Yun Xiao assured. He had made up his mind. He would seek out other incarnations of transcending cmity. His story with Chen Xi had ended too abruptly; there was still so much left unfinished. This was also a way to give the Supreme Marshal some closure.

    The Supreme Marshal slightly rxed upon hearing Yun Xiao''s confident reply, but his eyes reddened. He stared nkly at the dragon throne, lost in thought. "How could she just leave all of a sudden..." he mused. As a father, to see his daughter of fifteen years vanish without a trace left a gaping, torn wound in his heart.

    "Gone, and she took the Primordial Array with her?" The Supreme Marshal didn''t dwell on his sorrow for long, quickly returning to the pressing matters at hand.

    Yun Xiao, holding a walnut-sized, dim bell, said, "We still have this, but we can''t activate it."

    The Supreme Marshal frowned deeply, eyeing Yun Xiao. "So, you mean to say we''ve not only lost our main powerhouse but also our greatest strategic asset? Are we now left to barefoot brawl with the Demon Continent and Violet Sky?"

    "Exactly." Yun Xiao nodded.

    The Supreme Marshal felt as if struck by lightning. A double blow! The weight of reality, the fate of millions, left him no time to mourn the loss of his daughter. He took a deep breath and finally turned to Yun Xiao, asking, "Her departure was so sudden, did she leave anything behind for you?"

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao''s eyes zed with intensity. "She left me a portion of her strength. I''ve just entered the Saint Realm." It was this absorption of a part of the Yin Void power that shattered the Heavenly Decree Curse. And it was no small part.

    "Can you fight the Demon Emperors?" the Supreme Marshal asked solemnly.

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao nodded, his eyes full of conviction. "Leave it to me."

    "Do you have a strategy?" The Supreme Marshal looked into the eyes of his son-inw. He believed Yun Xiao had a potential even greater than his daughter''s.

    "It''s already in motion!" Yun Xiao''s voice was firm.

    "But you''re still here, how can you be executing it?" the Supreme Marshal didn''t quite understand.

    Yun Xiao didn''t answer directly. Instead, he said to the Supreme Marshal, "My style is different from hers. She could inspire troops and lead battles. I only know how to wield a sword and kill. You hold the front, I''ll take the rear. Just follow my lead."

    "Alright!" The father-inw and son-inw, the two most important men in her life, were now united. They would confront her lifelong fate together. Perhaps she would find sce in that...

    Every word Yun Xiao spoke was while holding a white crystal in his hand. He could feel it warming up, pulsating like a beating heart, connecting his and her father''s hearts. She was still there!

    "Let''s keep her departure between us," Yun Xiao said.

    "Understood." The Supreme Marshal nodded. If word got out, it would crush the morale of the Heavenly Realm, dooming millions.

    "How do we deal with the gap left by the disappearance of the Primordial Array?" the Supreme Marshal inquired. Theirmunication was simple, efficient, and full of trust. Chen Xi was the bridge between them.

    "The demon race is naturally suspicious. I''m trying to buy time," Yun Xiao replied.

    The Supreme Marshal was stunned again. "But you''re here, how can you stall?"

    Yun Xiao, without a word, strode out of the pce, the Supreme Marshal following close behind, sealing the grand doors shut. The Heavenly Realm¡¯s high officials approached, their faces tinged with anxiety. ¡°Why have we shut down the Primordial Array?¡± they asked. It was like leaving the gates wide open for the demons and devils toe ughter at will!

    Yun Xiao chuckled, ¡°Strategic ploy, no need for questions.¡± The officials stood dumbfounded.

    In this silent moment, Yun Xiao turned to an elderly man. ¡°Sword Saint Sun, how many Sword Hearts do we havebined in the Three Great Sword Tombs?¡±

    ¡°Sword Hearts?¡± Sword Saint Sun, after a quick consultation, replied, ¡°Around 50,000, I reckon. Most of the others are past their prime.¡±

    ¡°So many?¡± Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    ¡°These were the toughest times for the Three Great Sword Tombs. To preserve our legacy, the older generation had no choice. Facing imminent demise, they endured the hardship, giving their all for the safety of future generations,¡± Sword Saint Sun sighed. He, too, was part of this older generation, destined to leave behind his Sword Heart. His predecessors, three generations of Sword Saints, had already done the same.

    ¡°We were about to distribute these Sword Hearts to the young ones for battle,¡± Nangong Xi said.

    ¡°No, give them all to me. Including those of the three generations of Sword Saints,¡± Yun Xiao demanded.

    ¡°All to you?¡± Sword Saint Sun and his peers were stunned.

    ¡°Yes, quickly!¡± Yun Xiao urged, eyes fixed on the ominous clouds above.

    ¡°Alright.¡±

    To prepare for battle, they had all 50,000 Sword Hearts with them. Without hesitation, they handed over the Pouch of Holding, containing all these Sword Hearts, to Yun Xiao.

    ¡°These Sword Hearts are thest loving gift from several generations to their descendants¡­¡± Sword Saint Sun''s hands trembled as he passed them over. Many were from his generation, some from friends, brothers, teachers. Few from the upper three generations were left alive now. Most had be Sword Hearts, memories, and hopes of the younger generations.

    ¡°Sword Hearts, the heaviest sacrifice of the Sword Cultivator¡¯s Dao. More than 50,000 departed souls, yet their heroic spirits still illuminate the world!¡± the Supreme Marshal couldn¡¯t help but admire. He truly respected them. Even the most ordinary of Sword Cultivator ancestors endured the agony of bone stripping before death. If they died before the process wasplete, the Sword Heart would fail. So, they had to endure, refusing to die.

    The moment a Sword Heart formed, it was often the instant they closed their eyes and departed this world. When Yun Xiao caught these 50,000 Sword Hearts, it was as though he was catching a mountain!

    Most of these Sword Hearts might not be considered powerful, their utility limited, but the sword spirits they left behind were priceless!

    ¡°What I can do,¡± Yun Xiao said as he gathered the Sword Hearts, his eyes reddening, ¡°is to transform this bone-deep love of the ancestors into a lethal force, unleashing its greatest value.¡±

    After pocketing the Sword Hearts, Yun Xiao turned to the Supreme Marshal, Sword Saint Sun, Zhao Xuanjian, Nangong Xi, and the others, including the Nine Divine Guards. Even the Emperors of the other four great Immortal Empires were there.

    ¡°I leave this side to you. Wait for my word.¡± Having said this, Yun Xiao suddenly soared into the sky on his Sovereign Sword, vanishing in a blink.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above the Heavenly Realm, demon clouds churned!

    Over 100 million demons stirred these clouds, inching ever closer to the Heavenly Realm''s gate. Even the Sword Dao Monument was visible!

    ¡°These humans have some nerve, leaving the Heavenly Realm''s gate open,¡± the demons sneered.

    The Heavenly Realm had twoyers of defense. The first was the Heavenly Realm''s gate, and the second, the Primordial Array. The Heavenly Realm, a small pocket universe, had only one entrance. Other points required divine vessels to cross, which were scarce, and the Demon Continent had none.

    So, for the demon and Violet Sky armies to invade the Heavenly Realm, the first step was the gate. While not as formidable as the Primordial Array, the gate was a powerful defensive array.

    After annihting the Azure Leaf faction, the Divine Dawn Empress reopened the gate, allowing non-essentials to leave. Normally, she should''ve reactivated the gate, reinforcing both lines of defense. Controlling the gate wasn''t hard for her.

    Yet it remained open, a provocation to the demons and Violet Sky. But then, an even more explosive piece of news spread among the demon army.

    ¡°Not only is the Heavenly Realm''s gate not activated, but the Primordial Array is also withdrawn?¡±

    The Violet Sky and Demon Continent forces were baffled. What was the Divine Dawn Empress ying at? Both inner and outer gates wide open, inviting doom?

    This unusual change sparked a whirl of spection.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Amidst the swirling demon cloud, two Demon Saints, the Ape Saint and Burning Saint, apanied a silver-haired youth to a grotesque sight: a mountain of blood and flesh, the remains of countless bodies. The silver-haired youth was none other than the Moon Fairy.

    Ape Saint, initially reluctant, had been persuaded by Burning Saint, who mentioned the Forbidden Fate''s interest in Moon Fairy. After all, the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor was the supreme ruler of the Demon Continent.

    Gazing at this macabre mountain, Moon Fairy felt a chill crawl up his spine. What kind of monstrosity was this? A heap of eyes, ears, mouths, and limbs¡ªa true abomination.

    As Moon Fairy stared, the countless lifeless eyes of the heap seemed to return his gaze.

    ¡°The conflict between you and Eclipse has been ryed to me,¡± Forbidden Fate''s voice resonated in Moon Fairy''s ears. ¡°He ndered and killed your master, and you vow to not share the sky with him. Rest assured, I shall see justice done.¡±

    Moon Fairy, though aggrieved, felt a sense of satisfaction. Indeed, with high enough talent came privileges. Even going up against the Eclipse Demon Emperor was possible!

    His direct audience with the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor was risky, but as long as he wasn¡¯t immediately annihted, anyter discussion meant an opportunity for Moon Fairy. At least during the war, he could move freely among the demon ranks.

    Hearing this, both the Burning and Ape Saints heaved a sigh of relief. The former concerned about the future of the Demon Continent, thetter about the well-being of his n.

    But Forbidden Fate had more pressing matters. ¡°She has not only left the Heavenly Realm''s gate unactivated but also opened the Primordial Array. What do you make of this action?¡± Forbidden Fate pondered, frowning.

    It was highly unusual. Dering war with such bravado, then leaving the gate open... had they gone mad? With a hundred million fierce demons, ustomed to killing on sight, even they were bewildered by this unorthodox tactic.

    ¡°My Emperor! I have studied human military strategies extensively. This is called the Empty Fort Strategy, designed to intimidate us and buy time,¡± the Ape Saint confidently asserted with a bow. ¡°In light of this, we should act as if oblivious and strike directly, piercing their heart.¡±

    With a snort, the Burning Saint couldn''t help butugh, "You¡¯re versed in human warfare, but do you think they don¡¯t know that? What if they''re setting a trap for you to fall into?"

    The Ape Saint was momentarily speechless.

    "Maybey off reading those human tactics, huh? They''re full of traps!" The Burning Saint chuckled.

    Biting his lip, the Ape Saint conceded, "Fine, I''ll shut up."

    To attack or not to attack? Direct assault or a more indirect approach? These questions buzzed among the 100 million in the demon horde, so much so that even the Supreme Marshal of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire, Du Ding, came to seek Forbidden Fate''s counsel.

    After a moment of silence, Forbidden Fate turned to Moon Fairy. "The fox is known for its cunning and wisdom, fit to be a strategist. What¡¯s your take on this situation, Fox?"

    Moon Fairy pursed his lips, bowing his head. "Demon Emperor, I hesitate to speak."

    "Speak freely," Forbidden Fate encouraged.

    Looking at the mountain of flesh and feeling conflicted, Moon Fairy finally said, "Advance!"

    Suddenly, a gaping, fleshy cavity opened in the Forbidden Fate''s chest, emitting a stench so foul it could suffocate a living being. Moon Fairy, despite feeling nauseous, stepped into the cavity with a look of feigned honor.

    "I fear my words may be too bold, offending you," Moon Fairy said, bowing inside the increasingly constricting cavity. The stench was unbearable¡ªa mix of rotting corpses, blood, and excrement.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao, far inside the Heavenly Realm, felt like his heart was breaking. He had to grit his teeth and endure, speaking through his body double, "Demon Emperor! In the Ancestral Temple of the Heavenly Realm, I encountered those three devils. Hearing their words and observing their actions, I dare to guess that your alliance with the Endless Netherworld is not going smoothly. Those devils... they are truly domineering, not considering our demon race at all!"

    "Oh?" Forbidden Fate''s voice shifted slightly.

    From that change in tone, Yun Xiao knew he had hit the mark.

    In the sinister realm of the Endless Netherworld, stronger than even the Demon Continent, the devils plotted their next move. These creatures, born of malice, sought not friendship but opportunity. "Could the existence of these devils and Divine Dawn''s closing of the Primordial Array be rted?" Forbidden Fate mused, eager for a fresh perspective.

    The essence of a Corpse Demon was to gather the power of a multitude of demon corpses. <em>Gather</em> was its mantra, manifesting in its actions as an absorber of power, corpses, and even thoughts.

    Taking a deep breath, Moon Fairy, biting his lip, ventured, "I dare to specte that the devils and Divine Dawn might be in cahoots!"

    "Oh?" Forbidden Fate''s eximed. He''d asserted that the guests from the Endless Netherworld were friends. No demons doubted that.

    Seizing this moment, Yun Xiao, through the Moon Fairy, yed on this revtion.

    Forbidden Fate had never considered this angle before. "And then?" he asked calmly.

    "We, the devils, and Divine Dawn represent three forces," Moon Fairy said,posed. "The devils, neers with desires, surely covet thends of both the Divine and Demon Continents. Among these three, we demons are stronger than the humans. The devils, ying the role of the fisherman, would naturally seek to weaken us first. So their aid is a facade, their alliance with Divine Dawn a sham! But one truth remains! The devils will first weaken us. If we fall into their trap in this first battle, we''ll suffer greatly!"

    "Oh..." Forbidden Fate pondered. He, more than anyone, should understand the true intentions of these devils. Yun Xiao suspected that their alliance was filled with deceit, each party plotting against the other.

    "So tell me, little fox," Forbidden Fate continued, "with the gates of the Heavenly Realm and the Primordial Array wide open, what would happen if I, without suspicion, charged straight in?"

    Moon Fairy spoke gravely, "The two major defensive lines of the human race, the Heavenly Realm''s gate and the Primordial Array, can be activated or deactivated at will. The gate is breakable, but the array can only be breached by a frontal assault and by ying Divine Dawn. Now, with the gate inactive, we can''t break it. If we enter the Heavenly Realm and they activate both defenses, we''ll be trapped between them. And if the devils and Divine Dawn strike us together, what should have been an overwhelming victory could turn into an evenly matched battle. Considering our long march and the high morale of the humans, the losses could be substantial."

    "And your solution?" Forbidden Fate asked coldly.

    "We must attack! But as for the intentions of the devils, that''s just my spection. It''s up to you to decipher their true motives. I suggest encircling the Heavenly Realm without attacking, sealing off their world. Let''s crush their morale, built up by their war deration. We wait until their initial fervor wanes, then strike decisively. It would be best to destroy the Heavenly Realm''s gate after it''s activated, to prevent being mired with no way out."

    "Sieging the city and cutting off escape?" Forbidden Fate inquired.

    "Exactly! It shouldn¡¯t take long, depending on your dealings with the devils. If we can discern their intentions, the humans will crumble easily. Most of the millions in the Heavenly Realmck the will to fight, relying solely on Divine Dawn. They won''tst long. Now that both the gate and the array are open, let''s retreat a bit and spread rumors of a ten day siege. This will cause the faint-hearted to flee, shaking their morale. This could force Divine Dawn to activate the gate to stop deserters. Once the gate is destroyed, we have a clear retreat and can fight without fear of being sandwiched between humans and devils."

    After hearing this, Forbidden Fate burst intoughter, the flesh pressing on the Moon Fairy vibrating ominously. Moon Fairy was at his limit; it was disgusting! His mind was a nk te as he spoke these words, exerting his utmost effort.

    "Interesting! Quite interesting, little fox." Forbidden Fateughed heartily, as if over 100 million demons joined in his amusement.

    Moon Fairy modestly responded, "Just some wild thoughts, really. I hope I didn''t make a fool of myself."

    "Not at all, you''ve got quite the mind," Forbidden Fate said with a chuckle.

    "So..."

    "We''ll do as you suggest. First, we encircle the city, spread rumors of a ten day siege to force human deserters to flee, further shaking their morale. At the same time, you instruct the Gu Demon Emperor to act. Since the Primordial Array isn¡¯t active, his little bugs can go on a killing spree, even infiltrating the pce. Let him and his demons start the mayhem!" the Demon Emperormanded.

    "Yes..."

    Without the Primordial Array, Yun Xiao, in his guise as Moon Fairy, truly had no way to counteract a killing probe. He had given it his all today.

    Fortunately, the oue seemed favorable. At least the 100 million-strong demon army hadn''t charged headlong into the Heavenly Realm. They had bought some precious time.

    Just as Moon Fairy was about to sigh in relief, Forbidden Fate added, "Your n is good, but I have an addition to make."

    "What further insight does the Demon Emperor have?" Moon Fairy''s heart skipped a beat.

    The Demon Emperor''s sinister smile widened. "Divine Dawn thinks she can y mind games with me? I''ll y right back! I''ll immediately order the Violet Sky Immortal Empire¡¯s army to descend upon the Divine Continent, attacking and ughtering across the ny-nine territories of the Divine Dawn Empire. Let''s see how they like it when countless of their own lie dead or bleeding in the streets, their own people turning on each other. I''m curious to see who gets desperate first!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 221: War Princess, Do You Fancy Human Blood?

    Chapter 221: War Princess, Do You Fancy Human Blood?

    Afterwards, the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor summoned Supreme Marshal Du Ding of the Violet Sky, issuing amand to the Violet Sky Immortal Empire with an authoritative tone.

    "This..." Du Ding hung his head, his face a tangle of conflict.

    "What''s the matter? Doesn''t Violet Sky wish to be the co-ruler of the Divine Continent?" Forbidden Fate''s voice, a chilling mix of demon tones, sneered.

    Du Ding shook his head hastily, kneeling to respond, "We obey yourmand!" Upon receiving the order, he immediately returned to the ranks of the Violet Sky Immortal Army, leading his 10 million-strong force onward.

    Even cultivators at the Immortal Meridian Realm had limited time to levitate using their magic power, so this massive Violet Sky army was aboard thousands of warships, each ship carrying around ten thousand soldiers.

    As for the demons, they could condense demon clouds, binding all demons together in suspension, eliminating the need for warships. Whether on warships or demon clouds, a mishap at such high altitudes without enough magic power meant certain death!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Du Ding ordered the thousand ships of the Violet Sky to change direction, but held off on splitting his forces.

    "Supreme Marshal Du! The demons are carrying out a siege, yet they send us to the lower realms to y the viins. If we botch this, the entire human race of the Divine Continent could hate us. There might even be mutinies within Violet Sky!"

    "The mighty Violet Sky Immortal Army, the number one army of the Divine Continent, not attacking the Heavenly Realm, but instead targeting defenseless civilians?"

    Ironically, though they were in league with the demons, there was a sense of pride and superiority in their hearts as the kings of humanity.

    The original n was for the 100 million demon troops to lead the assault on the Heavenly Realm, with the Violet Sky Immortal Army supporting them, reaping benefits on the sly. Now, they were the main attackers! And tasked withmitting atrocities against humanity.

    The demons were instigating humans to ughter their own kind! No matter the oue, the Violet Sky Immortal Army''s descent would be a historic tragedy for the human race of the Divine Continent.

    Du Ding clenched his teeth in determination. Could he refuse the order? It seemed not. Violet Sky was now irreversibly tied to the Demon Continent. When Forbidden Fate bypassed the Violet Emperor to issue a directmand to him, it was clear they were seen as mere pawns, expendable at a whim.

    But what choice did he have? This was the price of dancing with demons. The Demon Continent wasn''t even pretending anymore in front of them.

    Gazing down at the vast expanse of the Divine Continent, Du Ding felt a storm of frustration brewing inside. Grinding his teeth, he said, "This matter is of great importance. You must quickly inform the Violet Emperor in the Heavenly Realm. Let him decide. We''ll slow our march and adapt as necessary."

    "Understood!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The 100 million demon troops sealed the entrances to the Heavenly Realm, surrounding but not attacking, their threat of decimating the city within ten days spreading fear throughout the Heavenly Realm.

    Another psychological warfare tactic! For the soldiers and cultivators already resolved to die for their nation, this threat only cemented their resolve to fight to the death.

    However, human nature was unpredictable. Under the pressure of demons, some took advantage of the chaos around the disappearance of the Primordial Array and the deactivated gates of the Heavenly Realm to flee. And, surprisingly, the demon troops let them go.

    To stay and fight to the death or to flee for a chance at life? Every soul in the Heavenly Realm was caught in this struggle. Those who chose to flee were inherently pessimists. But those who stayed became only more determined, more resolute.

    Such a strategy of psychological warfare was indeed effective for the Demon Continent, or else Moon Fairy''s suggestion would not have been epted by the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor.

    At this moment, the storm was at its fiercest! The entire Heavenly Realm was suffocating under the tension!

    The dire news that Forbidden Fate had ordered the Violet Sky Immortal Army to attack the ny-nine territories was spreading, fueling even greater despair.

    Against this backdrop, a silver-haired youth quietly entered the Ancestral Temple. He found himself in a blood-soaked, eerie courtyard. From within, the sound of an argument was audible.

    "I''ve been waiting here for half a day, and now you decide to besiege the city?" The voice belonged to the War Princess, and she was livid! It seemed that the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus were trying to calm her down, but to little avail.

    The War Princess, with her dark red eyes, gave a disdainful nce at the two Demon Emperors and strode out of the courtyard. "I''m tired of this hassle. Ghost Life, return to the Endless Netherworld and bring a few more hands," she said coldly.

    "Yes," one of the figures in ck robes replied, vanishing in the blink of an eye from beside the War Princess.

    She then proceeded with another cloaked figure in the direction of Moon Fairy.

    "War Princess," Moon Fairy greeted respectfully, bowing.

    The War Princess walked past, her stride releasing a fragrance like that of roses.

    Moon Fairy, not particrly short, still only reached up to her chest.

    "Do you fancy fresh human blood?" Moon Fairy suddenly asked.

    The War Princess stopped in her tracks and turned to look at the silver-haired, demonically beautiful youth. Moon Fairy''s innate charm was indeed attractive to any female. Silver hair, beast ears, a mystical air, a fox tail... He was like a lovable little pet, hard not to like.

    "Kill him?" the remaining cloaked figure inquired of the War Princess.

    In the Ancestral Temple, only the three Demon Emperors and the Violet Emperor were entitled to speak with them. For others, poking their nose into such private matters was indeed courting death.

    The War Princess did not respond to the cloaked figure. Instead, her dark red, seductive eyes examined Moon Fairy as she said in a soft voice, "What is your identity?"

    With utmost respect, Moon Fairy replied, "I am known as Moon Fairy, a disciple of the four Demon Emperors."

    "A little fox." The War Princess chuckled, beckoning with a delicate hand, "Come here."

    Moon Fairy, upon hearing themand, slowly approached the War Princess. It had to be said, the oppressive aura of this female devil was intense. Moon Fairy didn''t dare look up, lest his gazend somewhere inappropriate. Her tight ck leather attire seemed on the verge of bursting.

    "Damn. So that''s what people mean by a <em>devilish</em> figure..." Yun Xiao mused in awe from a distance. Her proportions were monstrous, unimaginably spicy. Even Zhao Xuanran couldn''t match this racial difference. After all, she wasn''t human!

    "Your true form," the War Princessmanded suddenly.

    "My true form?" Moon Fairy hesitated for a moment before transforming into a snow-white, Three-Tailed Fox.

    "Smaller," she demanded again.

    Moon Fairy, with no other choice, morphed into a tiny fox. The next moment, the War Princess squatted down, cradling him in her arms, her eyes shining as she murmured, "Little thing, you really are adorable."

    As she spoke, her jade-like hand caressed the small white fox.

    ".." Moon Fairy remained silent. Squeezed into her bosom, he was being treated like a pet. Between fox and devil, he was unsure who was enticing whom. His moon-white eyes gazed solemnly at the War Princess, her devilishly enchanting face, his expression <em>miserable</em>. A fox''s misery looked particrly heartrending.

    The War Princess had a soft spot for cute things, including girls, making the androgynous Moon Fairy especially endearing to her. This was unexpected for Yun Xiao. But, it made their task easier.

    The War Princess, originally in a foul mood, now seemed considerably brighter. Cradling the Three-Tailed fox, she gently stroked his fur and asked in a soft voice, "Little fox, you mentioned fresh human blood?"

    "Yes! I''ve been in the Heavenly Realm for quite some time and am quite familiar with it," Moon Fairy replied. He had gleaned some information about the War Princess after much probing with the Ape Saint and Burning Saint.

    "Oh?" she raised an eyebrow.

    Moon Fairy whispered, "I know of a ce, an all girls school, where young maidens from noble families of the Immortal Empire attend. Now, with the war, they are all protected in an underground pce."

    "Little girls?" Her eyes sparkled slightly.

    "Yes," Moon Fairy nodded.

    The War Princess chuckled softly, then looked down at the little fox in her arms, her tone suddenly turning chilling, "You, a mere beast, dare to specifically inquire about my preferences?"

    Moon Fairy, feigning nervousness, hurriedly said, "The demon race is crude and chaotic, unfit for the limelight. I wish to serve the princess, swearing to follow her to the depths of the Endless Netherworld for training."

    The War Princess, upon hearing this,ughed, her mood visibly lifting. "You''re quite amusing, little fox," she said, pinching his face. His cuteness indeed scored points. Her previously sour mood turned surprisingly cheerful. "Alright, I''ll give you a chance. But¡ª"

    Suddenly, she grabbed his throat, her voice cold, "Since you''re my fox, if I ever find out you''ve betrayed or mocked me, your fate will be unimaginably miserable! I detest disloyal beasts the most!"

    "I swear, my worthless life belongs to the princess!" the little fox said excitedly.

    "Is that so? Then offer your blood first." The War Princess suddenly opened her mouth! Between her lips, two pairs of sharp teeth protruded. She lifted the Moon Fairy to her eyes and bit into his neck.

    Moon Fairy''s Divine Destion Physique was very tough, but he ceased resisting, withdrawing his sacred power, allowing her to pierce his artery.

    "Aghh..." Moon Fairy whimpered in fox-like yelp. The War Princess was actually drinking his blood! His fox-face wrinkled in natural pain, but he refrained from struggling. Internally, he cursed her a thousand times over! What a freak!

    Fortunately, the War Princess didn''t drink for long. Licking her lips with her long tongue, she said contentedly, "Demon blood usually stinks, but yours, little fox, is quite tolerable. It seems you were born to belong to me."

    "I thank the War Princess for her grace," the little fox said weakly.

    "Grace?" The War Princess seemed pleased by thepliment. In high spirits, she said, "Let''s go then, to that all girls school you mentioned."

    "Princess, should we not stay in the Ancestral Temple until reinforcements arrive?" one of the figures in ck robes asked in a low voice.

    "Hmm?" The War Princess shot him a cold nce.

    "I apologize for overstepping." He quickly bowed his head.

    "If you wish to stay, stay by yourself," she retorted.

    "I dare not!" the cloaked figure said

    Ignoring him further, the War Princess, cradling the little white fox, followed its guidance and quietly left the Ancestral Temple. They ventured into the region once protected by the Primordial Array. Here, they could see ranks of human soldiers in strict formation, ready for battle.

    Clearly, they were prepared to use buildings, rivers, and tunnels as cover and foundations for guerri warfare against the demons¡ªa war involving the entire popce.

    "The human race, the most resilient, yet inherently the weakest," the War Princess mused with a chuckle. She harbored a distinct disdain for humans, a revulsion that seemingly surpassed even her dislike for demons. Only their blood appealed to her.

    Moon Fairy sensed apletely different cultivation system within her, one rooted in the heart, arteries, and veins, simr to the Dantian and meridian system, but spreading throughout the body.

    Devils represented the most bnced race! The power of blood sacrifice allowed them to have strong physical bodies, cast daoist spells, and wield magic treasures. In short, they practiced a dual cultivation of both human and demon arts.

    "Put another way, their Daoist arts are inferior to humans, and their physical strength lesser than demons!" Moon Fairy mused.

    If devils were actually superior to both humans and demons, there''d be no need for the other two races to exist. Still, it was said that within the same realm, devils were stronger than demons, who in turn were stronger than humans. Except, of course, for those human Sword Cultivators who went all out in their attacks. A Sword Cultivator, with their Sword Aura just right, could stab anyone to death.

    Yun Xiao, having been up close and personal, had gotten a feel for the War Princess''s strength. Her fiery, voluptuous body darted through the streets like a streak of blood, too fast for ordinary eyes to see.

    "Where is it?" she mused, her obsession with the blood of children evident. Clearly, such fresh and delectable blood was rare in the Endless Netherworld. Her objective was quite clear. The demons wanted to exterminate humanity, but the devils surely didn''t. They preferred to keep them as cattle for blood.

    "We''re almost there, War Princess," Moon Fairy said, leading them to a residence far from the Ancestral Temple, unbeknownst to the three Demon Emperors that the War Princess had already departed. Aheady a dpidated pce.

    "Here?" she asked, surprised.

    "Just aughable human trick. They''re all hiding in an underground pce below," Moon Fairy said with a coldugh.

    "A whole race''s fate about to be sacrificed to the heavens, what good is hiding?" The War Princess, her face impassive, stepped into the ruins.

    "Yes," Moon Fairy agreed, his head bowed, eyes shing with deep anger. Quickly, he hopped out of her arms and found a passage to the underground pce.

    "Thousands of delicious human blood await you, War Princess," he gestured.

    The War Princess extended her absurdly long, fragrant tongue, and a mist wafted from her mouth.

    A fox and two devils swiftly descended the stairs of the underground pce, transforming into a blood-colored shadow as they entered! <em>HUM! </em>In the next instant, they appeared before a vast underground chamber. However, the chamber was in ruins, clearly long abandoned.

    "Hmm?" The War Princess paused, her eyes narrowing as she looked down at the Moon Fairy, "Where are the children?"

    "In the sky!" Moon Fairy pointed upwards.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, a massive shadow descended from above! It was an ancient bronze coffin lid! And beneath their feet, two ghostly blue eyes appeared on the ground. This wasn''t the ground; it was the coffin''s lid!

    <em>BAM! </em>Just as the War Princess looked up, the body of the ancient bronze coffin mmed down onto the lid, sealing them inside with Moon Fairy, the War Princess, and the figure in ck robes!

    "Ghost yer!" The War Princess''s expression shifted slightly. She summoned the ck-robed figure named Ghost yer to appear instantly behind her, back to back. Their expressions were alert, icy, and furious!

    "Little fox!" The War Princess''s eyes zed with cold blood fire, fixating on a small white fox not far away.

    The fox, enveloped in a mist, transformed back into the demonically beautiful silver-haired youth, touching the fang puncture on his neck, his gaze icy as he looked at the War Princess.

    And then, from the shadows behind the Moon Fairy, a youth in white emerged. The white-robed youth held a three-foot azure de, with over 500 hundredyers of Sword Aura swirling around it!

    "The human, Yun Xiao?!" The War Princess, unfamiliar with what happened in the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm, could never have imagined that these two figures on opposing sides would stand together.

    "Are you nning to trap and kill me?" The thought didn''t anger but amused her, "What bravery for two little boys?"

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As the War Princess sneered, Moon Fairy suddenly transformed into a mist, merging into Yun Xiao. The two <em>little boys</em> suddenly became one!

 Chapter 222: To Be or Not To Be a Woman!

    Chapter 222: To Be or Not To Be a Woman!

    The War Princess and Ghost yer were dumbstruck again! The scene before them had utterly eclipsed theirprehension.

    Time was of the essence! With the ten day siege on the city stalling the advance of the 100 million-strong demon army, Yun Xiao swiftly deployed his body double to lure the War Princess out of the Ancestral Temple. The key to breaking the deadlocky in this very moment!

    The Ancestral Temple, guarded by the three Demon Emperors, the Violet Emperor, the 108 Demon Saints, and tens of millions of demons, was no match for the devil''s might.

    Yet, Moon Fairy scampering up and down, ying the seducer had finally earned a golden opportunity!

    "A top-tier Seed of Creation! Brother, you''ve struck it rich!" Blue Star, witnessing this with its own eyes, was absolutely gobsmacked.

    "Coffin mist!" Yun Xiao uttered just two words. The ancient bronze coffin became shrouded in mist! He recalled how he used this same tactic in Azure Spirit to incapacitate a demonic cultivator. Best of all, this strategy wasn''t as taxing on the coffin soul beast.

    The coffin mist and Moon Fairy! This was Yun Xiao''s capital to battle the Emperor level Devils while only at the Early Saint Realm. But he had no time and still felt it wasn''t enough! He pulled out a Pouch of Holding, pouring out tens of thousands of Sword Hearts right before him, forming a miniature mountain of them.

    "Ancestors, aid me!" Yun Xiao thrust the Heaven Burial Sword Soul directly into this pile!

    <em>BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ! </em>Countless Sword Hearts, as if summoned by the sword''s forebear, filled with ancestral obsession, surged into the three-foot azure de. Tens of thousands of Sword Hearts created a maelstrom of colorful sword energy, intensifying the lethality of the Sword Aura and Sword Ring demon magics!

    At this moment, Yun Xiao, bolstered by the Divine Destion Physique, was more devilish than the devils themselves!

    The War Princess, who had initially underestimated this little boy, was shocked by his sudden disy of lethal force¡ªthe coffin mist, Divine Destion Physique, and the empowerment of the Sword Hearts!

    "What kind of monster is this!" No sooner had the War Princess spoken than a thick wave of coffin mist engulfed her and Ghost yer!

    The power of the ancient bronze coffin''s mist seeped into their bodies, infiltrating their blood and hearts, coursing through their veins, and started corroding the sacred essence within these two devils!

    "War Princess, this mist is poisonous, we must kill our way out quickly!" Ghost yer hissed, his ck robe tearing apart to reveal a tall, menacing devil. His face was a ghastly green with fierce fangs, his body adorned with pitch-ck scales. A pair of ram horns, adorned with triple blood stripes, crowned his forehead.

    In contrast, the War Princess seemed almost human, radiant and beautiful, with exquisitely ornate, regal horns on her head, each marked with nine blood stripes, indicating immense power. Yet, under the engulfing coffin mist, even her blood horns lost their luster.

    Both devils fixed their deadly gazes on Yun Xiao.

    In a sh, a fierce battle erupted!

    The War Princess wielded a striking red blood whip, bristling with venomous fangs and adorned with nine blood-colored steel rings¡ªa magic treasure of high caliber, easily of Gxy grade!

    Ghost yer gripped a ck blood g, known as the Soul Summoning Banner, capable of capturing souls and doubling as a spear.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>With a sweeping motion, Ghost yer unleashed a tide of blood-red mes from the banner, roaring towards Yun Xiao like a fiery torrent.

    Facing two, Yun Xiao had to y one first! Without time for showmanship, he hurled an Elemental Sphere at the War Princess with his left hand, while his right wielded the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, now a three-inch Flying Sword, whirling furiously towards his foes.

    <em>KLANG! </em>A piercing ng echoed within the ancient bronze coffin.

    <em>Constetion ying Sword, Star Burst Pulsar!</em>

    This was the second Flying Sword technique after Meteor Shower, the mightiest sword of the Constetion ying Sword, transforming into a streak of starlight piercing the dark night¡ªa technique simr in form to Sun and Moon Divine Light, Rainbow Through the Sun!

    With a single strike, the sword pulsed with a beam of concentrated starlight. This was like a sword that gathered the entire cosmos, infused with the power of the Sword Hearts and demon magics, instantly confronting Ghost yer!

    "Huh?!" The full might of the Night March of a Hundred Ghosts was unleashed by Yun Xiao! And Ghost yer was a devil of the same caliber as the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor.

    Just as the Soul Summoning Banner raised a skyful of blood mes, the Star Burst Pulsar Flying Sword''s storm broke through, unstoppable and overwhelming. With a deafening explosion, the sword''s brilliance pierced through the banner!

    <em>BANG! </em>Ghost yer, with his flesh and blood, swung the pole of the Soul Summoning Banner, striking the Flying Sword! "Break!" He roared furiously, intending to smash the Sword Soul with his brute physical strength and the power of his treasured weapon.

    The Flying Sword, its path forcibly altered, should have missed Ghost yer, but in the next instant, it astonishingly spiraled back! <em>POP! </em>A streak of blue light, skimming like a stone over water, pierced Ghost yer''s ear!

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>The Flying Sword entered his right ear and exited the left, scattering a cloud of blood-red fragments!

    "Ugh¡­" In a mere moment, Ghost yer''s face turned ashen, and he fell to his knees with a thud! He died with his eyes wide open! From the start of the battle to death, it was all but an instant. The War Princess had just dispersed the terrifying explosive force of the Elemental Sphere, looked up, and saw Ghost yer dead!

    "How is he that strong?" The War Princess eximed, her heart pounding wildly and her eyes turning blood-red in shock. "How dare a mere human and demon kill a devil from the Endless Netherworld? How do you wish to die?" Clutching her whip Blood Fang Devourer, she pounced towards Yun Xiao like a fierce red beast.

    She could tell that part of Yun Xiao''s strength wasn''t his own, so she saw a chance to wear him down.

    <em>HUM! </em>The War Princess''s heart throbbed wildly, the sacred power surging through her body, turning her delicate frame a fiery red, her twin blood horns glowing.

    "Blood Sacrifice, Dragon Breath!" The War Princess was now unleashing a devil''s blood art technique! Simr in method to humans, the sacred power under her control erupted and transformed into a raging blood-red me dragon, almost a thousand meters long, ferociously biting towards Yun Xiao!

    "Die!" Her fiery figure vanished in a sh, attacking Yun Xiao from the side, in sync with the Dragon Breath! Merging daoist sorcery with the power of flesh and blood, the might of a devil was fully revealed to Yun Xiao.

    However, Yun Xiao was more devilish than the devils!

    <em>HUM! </em>His left hand raised, countless dense blood-colored thunderbolts coalescing on his arm, forming a gigantic blood-colored thunder arm, nearly indistinguishable from the Divine Dawn Empress'' Thundergrasp Blood Maulers!

    "When did you learn that?" Blue Star asked in astonishment.

    "Just watched her do it twice and got it," Yun Xiao replied nonchntly.

    "What?" While Blue Star was still dumbfounded, Yun Xiao''s blood-colored thunderous arm violently pressed down on the Dragon Breath!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Thunder and me collided, the furious dragon roared, and the entire ancient bronze coffin shook!

    On the other side, the War Princessshed her whip furiously, but Yun Xiao, with icy cold eyes, thrust his three-foot azure de forward.

    <em>Constetion ying Sword, Streaking Comet!</em>

    Wielded with the Divine Destion Physique, the sword''s power was greatly amplified. The sword shed with the steel whip. The War Princess seemed more ferocious, but Yun Xiao forced her back with a single strike, unmovable as a mountain.

    The might of his Divine Destion Physique was truly fearsome!

    One plus one was more than two!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao crushed the Dragon Breath with his Thundergrasp Blood Maulers, transforming into a beam of white light, descending from the sky.

    <em>Constetion ying Sword, Fall!</em>

    This sword, powered by the force of the Sword Hearts, was as wild as a demon, fast, urate, ruthless, and cold.

    "You!" The War Princess''s face darkened. She was so overwhelmed she could hardly breathe, her only response a furious cry, whipping through the air.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The War Princess felt the weight of a bearing down on her. As Yun XIao''s overwhelming force poured down, her knees buckled and blood burst forth!

    "You''re courting death!" The War Princess shrieked. As her words fell, Yun Xiao''s three-foot azure de struck again, piercing her chest in an instant, delivering seven consecutive thrusts!

    <em>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </em>Each thrust missed vital points but sliced open the veins she was using to channel her sacred power!

    "Ugh¡­" In pain, the War Princess''s face turned deathly pale, her eyes still vicious, butcking conviction.

    <em>STAB! </em>Yun Xiao''s sword thrust once more, this time the tip resting on the War Princess''s heart! The heart, the very core of a devil, once pierced, meant certain death!

    "Don''t move," Yun Xiaomanded coldly, sending a shiver down the War Princess''s spine. Her struggling body, racked with pain and the threat of death, immediately froze, motionless.

    In that moment, she knelt in the ancient bronze coffin, while the young man in white stood before her, his sword pointed at her heart, his eyes icy cold.

    The victor was clear!

    "Kill me if you dare, I''m not afraid of death!" The War Princess defiantly stared back, her dark red eyes unwavering. "If I die here, your entire human race will pay with their lives!"

    "You''re not afraid of death, but why are your legs shaking like that?" Yun Xiao looked down at her trembling, long legs under her short skirt, a cold smirk on his lips.

    "What do you want? Threatening me to help you against the demons? Do you know the crime of abducting a princess from the Endless Netherworld?" Despite her trembling legs, the War Princess''s face remained proud, staring coldly at him.

    Yun Xiao didn''t bother responding to her but instead frowned and turned to Blue Star. "Are you sure I can''t directly seize this Seed of Creation and have to use her body to cultivate the Blood Base? And after it''s matured, then kill her for the blood?"

    "Yes! Her bloodline is of a high grade, and your current physical form is too ethereal to handle it directly. ording to the devils, she has a Nine-Tiered Bloodline, and she hasn''t unlocked even one tier yet. So, in the Endless Netherworld, she''s an unawakened blood talent. Her blood is immensely valuable to you," Blue Star exined.

    "What a hassle!" Yun Xiao shook his head. He wasn''t worried about the War Princess hearing this; after all, she wouldn''t understand and was doomed anyway.

    "If you find it too troublesome, there''s another way," Blue Star suggested with a sly grin.

    "What is it?"

    "She''s also a rare Split Body Seed. You could split another small portion of your soul, simr to Moon Fairy. But, this girl is a genuine female..."

    Red Moon''s eyes were already shining, excitedly saying, "Creator, using the hottest body double to please me, just thinking about it is thrilling! With this body double, you won''t need a lover on your Immortal journey!"

    "So, what''s your choice?" Blue Star chuckled.

    Yun Xiao nced down at the War Princess. Blood horns, fragrant tongue, legs, spicy, wielding a huge steel whip¡­ She was absolutely stunning! So, what to choose?

    Yun Xiao clenched his teeth and dered, "I''d rather die than be a woman!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the underground pce, a girl with a blue butterfly knot on her back was passing by on her Sovereign Sword.

    Suddenly, she frowned, looking at the dpidated pce before her. She could hear tremors from underground, and the piercing wails of a woman, a sound that brought tears to the listener''s eyes.

    "Who dares tomit such violence under the bright sun?" Her brows furrowed, she gripped her Sword Soul, enveloped in over 600yers of Sword Aura, and plunged downwards.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    <strong>Unironically, an amazing meme edit. </strong><strong>Link to source.</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 223: Mortal Dust Devil!

    Chapter 223: Mortal Dust Devil!

    In the underground pce, within the ancient bronze coffin, Yun Xiao continued his conversation with the eerie blue eyes on the coffin lid.

    Meanwhile, Moon Fairy had separated from his body, now standing motionless at Yun Xiao''s side, staring nkly into space. To the War Princess, this scene was bizarre in the extreme. A man with his own coffin, a fusion of human and demon, a Sword Soul devouring Sword Hearts... what in the world was this?

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao''s sword shed through the War Princess''s leather armor near her heart with a loud rip. A loud snap rang out, followed by two beams of white light illuminating the dark coffin, dazzlingly bright.

    The War Princess couldn''t hold back her scream. Her face drained of color as she clutched at her chest, ring at Yun Xiao with a mix of grief and fury. "I am a noble devil! Even in death, you, a mere mortal, shall not defile me!"

    "A noble devil?" Yun Xiao looked at her coldly.

    "Devils feed on humans and demons; we are superior beings! To me, you are no different than a breeding pig!" the War Princess retorted with pride and contempt in her eyes.

    Her thought was simple. If Yun Xiao dared to cross a line, she would rathermit suicide by bursting her own blood vessels than let her noble body be tainted by him. It was an insult that would disgrace her ancestors.

    What would Yun Xiao do with her now? Her heart quivered with fear. Biting her red lips, she lowered her head, "I am now in your hands. I promise to help you expel the demon race, but if you touch a single hair on me, you and all the people of the Divine Continent will walk a path of no return."

    She thought her submission would sway Yun Xiao to ept her generous offer. But Yun Xiao didn''t even acknowledge her plea. He moved quickly, leaning towards the War Princess who, though defiant in words, recoiled in fear. Her arms, hastily raised, failed to cover the splendorid bare before her.

    However, Yun Xiao was only picking up a few Pouches of Holding from the ground. These pouches, ck and red with devilish blood symbols, had sprung from the War Princess''s possession. His earlier sh wasn''t an attack but a ploy to retrieve these items.

    Satisfied after inspecting the contents of most pouches, he stored them away. Then, from one remaining pouch, he retrieved a bead burning with ck mes and asked, "What is this?"

    "A Destion Bead!" the War Princess eximed, her heart racing and her skin flushed red. This was a trait of devil cultivation, where any strong emotion¡ªnervousness, excitement, anger¡ªwould cause the blood to circte more rapidly, turning the skin a flushed, rosy hue, especially noticeable on the cheeks, as if she were drunk.

    "This is more potent than the Destion Armor in locking the power of Destion," Yun Xiao noted, counting several Gxy grade Deste Essences in the Pouch of Holding.

    Devils, like demons, forged their physical forms with Deste Essence. However, their need for it wasn''t as immense as that of demons.

    "You really appeared at the perfect time," Yun Xiao said, satisfied. He tossed the pouch to his body double. Moon Fairy, without hesitation, began consuming the Destion Bead, swallowing the Deste Essences of water, fire, wind, and thunder born from heaven and earth.

    "He''s eating Destion Bead raw? Isn''t he afraid of destroying his internal organs?" The War Princess was stunned, witnessing a scene beyond her imagination. What kind of monsters were these two?

    "Blue Star," Yun Xiao called to the coffin lid beneath him, "How effective is this Blood Basepared to creating a body double directly? What are the pros and cons?"

    "Blood Base? Body double?" The War Princess''s face turned even redder, not out of shyness but from a mix of anger and shock. She was astounded that Yun Xiao seemed entirely indifferent to her.

    "Essentially different, but in practice, not much. A body double is simpler, lessplex," Blue Star replied.

    Yun Xiao looked at the tall, fiery devilish woman, shuddering at the thought of using such a body himself. "Tell me more about the Blood Base, and quickly, we''re short on time."

    "The essence of the Blood Base is using her body for cultivation, transforming her into your Blood ve with the Mortal Dust Devil Seed. Once this Blood Base is sessfully cultivated within her, you can extract it, along with her Seed of Creation, and incorporate it into your own body, integrating a second type of cultivation system within you," Blue Star exined rapidly.

    Previously, Blue Star had mentioned that due to the heavy deficit in the Creator Immortal''s body, it was impossible to directly reim this top-tier Seed of Creation and establish a heart and blood cultivation system.

    "Using her body for cultivation?" Yun Xiao was perplexed, "I am me, she is her, how can I use her body for cultivation?"

    "What are you talking about!" The War Princess, feeling neglected and chilled to the bone, blushed even deeper.

    "The key lies in the Mortal Dust Devil Seed. You need to mix your lesser soul with your and her heart''s blood, using another Ancestral God''s devil technique, Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, to forge a Mortal Dust Devil Seed and imnt it in her heart. So, although your lesser soul doesn''t control her body, it controls her cultivation system. From then on, her heart, blood vessels, and circtory system are actually under your control. This blood system, controlled by the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, is called the Blood Base," Blue Star continued.

    Hearing this, the War Princess''s lips trembled, and she shook her head in disbelief, "What fanciful nonsense you speak..."

    Yet, as usual, no one paid her any attention!

    "So, I still have to split off a part of my soul?" Yun Xiao asked, not even bothering to nce at her.

    "Obviously! How else would you remotely control her, or use her body for cultivation? If it weren''t for your stubborn masculinity, you could have just created a body double and controlled her directly. Why go through all this hassle?" Blue Star scoffed. "But creating a Blood Base has its perks. Once it''s formed, you can extract her heart, blood vessels, and circtory system, permanently merging them into one body with two systems."

    "No!" The War Princess''s heart pounded furiously, her teeth clenched in anger. "Shut up! What do you think I am?"

    "So, she''s not my body double, but I can control her will? Whatever I want her to do or say, she must?" Yun Xiao asked coldly.

    "Exactly! Once the Mortal Dust Devil Seed is imnted, her power is essentially yours. Without your approval, she couldn¡¯t even squash an ant. And with your lesser soul in her, she''ll function just like a body double in everyday use. But if you pair up with her, you won''t experience the dual pleasure of male and female," Blue Star exined earnestly.

    "Damn it." Yun Xiao eximed. Dual pleasure¡­! Who even came up with these terms? Still, he''d gotten the gist of it.

    "Decide quickly then, before she gets scared and offs herself, wasting the Seed of Creation." Blue Star chuckled.

    "You could have kept thatment to yourself," Yun Xiao remarked.

    At this, the War Princess was both furious and indignant, ring at Yun Xiao. "Do you take me for a fool? Creating these unbelievable methods, you think you can intimidate me into serving you for life?"

    "Do you want to kill yourself?" Yun Xiao asked her calmly.

    "You!" The War Princess took a deep breath. "Yun Xiao, in truth, we don''t have a deep hatred between us. Ourmon enemy is the demons. I suggest we join forces!"

    "Okay." Right after agreeing, Yun Xiao suddenly thrust his sword, aiming straight for her heart!

    The War Princess screamed in pain, looking down only to find... no wound. It wasn''t fatal, but the pain was real.

    Before she could react, Yun Xiao swiftly captured a drop of her heart''s blood. He then pricked his own heart with a steel needle to draw a drop of his own. His body, not as robust as the devilish woman¡¯s, couldn''t handle a sword thrust¡ªthat would have been the end of him.

    The drops of human heart and devil heart''s blood mixed together!

    To be precise, Yun Xiao, with his Creator Immortal physique, wasn¡¯t exactly human; his soul was. His blood, though weaker, tookmand when mixed with the War Princess¡¯s, enveloping and dissolving hers, and forged into a blood orb.

    "Infuse a part of your soul and use the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity technique to forge the Mortal Dust Devil Seed," Blue Star instructed. The technique of the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity appeared on its coffin body.

    Primordial Void Technique, Will of Divine Destion, Mortal Dust Blood Cmity¡ªthe three great techniques of three Ancestral Gods!

    But Yun Xiao¡¯s cultivation methods surpassed even those of the Ancestral Gods, practicing the Yang Void, Upper Divine Destion, and Great Blood Cmity, while the three Ancestral Gods practiced the Yin Void, Lower Divine Destion, and Minor Blood Cmity.

    A terrifying drop of ck and red devil blood materialized in Yun Xiao¡¯s palm as he infused a fragment of his soul, using the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity technique. On that blood drop appeared a face¡ªYun Xiao¡¯s, but it was a dark, crimson, ferocious version of him.

    "This Mortal Dust Devil power is even more sinister, domineering, dark, and brutal than that of Divine Destion!" Yun Xiao instantly felt its intense power.

    The Primordial Immortal Ancestor walked the Central Great Dao, epassing all things. Divine Destion embodied the wild, wicked, and fierce. Lastly, the Mortal Dust Devil represented the dark, bloody, and tyrannical.

    The <em>Mortal Dust</em> referred to the mortal world. He was the devil of the world, much like how the Creator Immortal was the creator of the world. So, in a sense, the third Ancestral God known as the Mortal Dust Devil, bore a name strikingly simr in theme to the Creator Immortal.

    Blue Star exined that this Ancestral God ranked at the top among the Six Ancestral Gods in terms ofbat prowess. He was born from the malevolent thoughts of the world. Especially as the realm expanded and life proliferated, the increasing evil thoughts skyrocketed the Mortal Dust Devil¡¯s power. This was also one of the factors leading to the Creator Immortal''s suffering.

    "In short," Blue Star concluded, "other Ancestral Gods are somewhat bound to the Creator Immortal by karma, but the Mortal Dust Devil is pure, innate malevolence."

    When Yun Xiao grasped the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, his eyes suddenly turned blood red, and he became incredibly fierce.

    "How is it?" Blue Star asked, smirking.

    "In the depths of my heart, I feel an overwhelming rage and anger!" Yun Xiao replied.

    "Good," Blue Star''s voice carried a hint of sadness. "You created the world, and it should not mistreat you. You are the progenitor of the Dao and rightfully should reim what is yours. That is the natural order of things."

    "Mortal Dust Devil..." Holding the ferocious Mortal Dust Devil Seed, Yun Xiao stood before the War Princess. "Do you want to kill yourself? Now''s your chance," he asked, his eyes blood red.

    "Don''t think you can scare me!" the War Princess retorted, still disbelieving the possibility of cultivating with someone else''s body. No sooner had she spoken than Yun Xiao grabbed her mouth and forced the Mortal Dust Devil Seed inside.

    "Mmph!" The War Princess''plexion turned deathly pale, hands clutching her heart, no longer concerned about appearances. She writhed on the ground, legs curled up, body drenched in sweat and blood-red, shaking violently, and then unable to suppress it any longer, she let out a terrible scream.

    "Now do you believe?" Yun Xiao watched her coldly.

    "I''ll die to show you!" These words from the War Princess meant she realized the truth in Yun Xiao and Blue Star''s conversation!

    Yun Xiao was somewhat surprised she was actually willing tomit suicide. But it was toote. Once the Mortal Dust Devil Seed took root in her heart and began to be controlled by his lesser soul, activating the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity that swept through her blood, her cultivation system was no longer under her control. She couldn''t detonate her blood even if she wanted to!

    "Blood, the essence of life, and the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity can forge Blood Cmity from blood and sacred power infused blood. Through repeated tribtions in the blood vessels, it enhances the power of the blood vessels, achieving the Mortal Dust Devil Blood!"

    The Mortal Dust Devil Blood was not just the essence of life but also the power of the Blood Cmity! It resided within the War Princess, much like the Divine Destion Physique in Moon Fairy. They could cultivate separately, but ultimately, everything would return to the original being, Yun Xiao.

    During this phase, Yun Xiao could use their identities to aplish many tasks.

    "Even Moon Fairy, with no significant origins, can navigate among humans and demons, let alone the exalted status of this War Princess."

    "Agh, ahhh! AHHHH¡­!" the War Princess cried. Yun Xiao''s usurpation of her cultivation system was akin to initially stripping her blood vessels, circtory system, and heart from her body. Naturally, she endured unspeakable agony. It was an experience she''d likely never forget.

    Her body became a mere vessel. While benefiting from the Blood Cmity¡¯s power, strengthening her physique, the moment Yun Xiao removed the Blood Base, all she''d be left with was a worthless corpse.

    Moon Fairy couldn''t create a Blood Foundation because the key to the Divine Destion Physique was the body. But for the War Princess, it was the blood!

    "First, forge her heart, arteries, and blood vessels into a preliminary Blood Base. Second, transform all her Early Awakened Emperor Realm sacred power infused blood into Mortal Dust Devil Blood. This way, even if she remains at the Early Awakened Emperor Realm, she''d possess at least double thebat power, simr to Moon Fairy. Her power would skyrocket. And with the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, the previous wounds on her vessels and heart will heal rapidly," Blue Star exined.

    Yun Xiao proceeded methodically, without further ado.

    The War Princess''s agony in the first half was so intense that she regretted her very existence, her spirit utterly shattered. Yet in the second half, without doing anything, she watched as her heart, bloodlines, and power transformed. This terrifying level of enhancement benefited her body and soul, bringing an indescribable sense offort throughout. She was utterly bewildered.

    "What kind of monster is this..." the War Princess muttered in a daze. Would she grow stronger just by lying there? Was he raising her like a blood pig? It was then she realized: Moon Fairy was this monster''s demon body double.

    And now, because this monster didn''t want to be a woman, she, by some twisted stroke of luck, was temporarily spared¡­ Mortal Dust Demon Seed, Blood Cmity power... these unfamiliar and terrifying terms flooded her mind. She couldn''t control her cultivation, but she could control her body.

    Once the pain subsided, the War Princess got up, sat on the ground with her legs bent, staring nkly at Yun Xiao, deep fear evident in her eyes...

 Chapter 224: Bloodline Talent Unlocked, Blood Spirit Dragon Seed!

    Chapter 224: Bloodline Talent Unlocked, Blood Spirit Dragon Seed!

    "No!" the War Princess eximed, her voice echoing a defiance that belied her circumstances.

    "I am a noble devil, and even under control, my soul shall not yield!" Her words were a fierce deration, a battle cry against the invisible chains that sought to bind her.

    The War Princess felt an indescribable shame wash over her. The thought of her parents and brother learning of this ignominy was too much to bear. As she grappled with these thoughts, a surge of Blood Cmity power targeted the twin horns on her forehead.

    "Huh?!" A tremor ran through her delicate frame.

    She could feel it clearly¡ªher Nine-Tiered Bloodline talent. In the Endless Netherworld, she was the first ever to possess such a gift, a sensation that had once shaken the Nine Hells, bing the pride of the Endless Netherworld.

    But, as with all great gifts, it was incredibly difficult to unlock. At seventeen, she had yet to unlock a single tier, a source of anxiety and her greatest affliction.

    Many devils, with merely Three or Four-Tiered Bloodline talents, had unlocked theirs by their early teens, their cultivation speeds soaring, far surpassing her, the ''once-in-an-epoch genius''.

    The cruel truth was that after eighteen, these blood runes on her horns would never unlock. And her eighteenth birthday was just a fortnight away.

    In the Endless Netherworld, she was an anomaly, a paradox¡ªdestined for greatness, yetnguishing at the bottom. Her birth had rocked the Nine Hells, but her eighteenth birthday threatened to brand her as a scandal, a disgrace to the Endless Netherworld.

    No precedent existed for someone with such high potential unable to unlock a single tier. As her eighteenth birthday loomed, her life became increasingly desperate, driving her away from the core of the Endless Netherworld to wander, eventually leading her to the Divine and Demon Continents.

    All these years, she had hidden this heartache, but now¡­ Now, as she felt her Nine-Tiered Bloodline talent unlocking, tears poured from her dark red eyes. Almost eighteen years, and finally, the moment hade. From the pinnacle of expectation to the pit of despair, as her eighteenth birthday approached, the jeers, theughter, the sneers grew louder. The cruelty of words, the pressure she faced was enough to shatter any heart.

    She had long stopped fearing death, harboring a secret wish to end her life on her eighteenth birthday, in a distantnd, forgotten by the world. These were the secrets buried deep within her heart.

    Then, suddenly, the sound she had dreamed of hearing¡ªa crisp, resonating snap echoed from her blood horns. One by one, the runic seals on her Bloodline shattered. Her delicate horns transformed, taking on a majestic form akin to the horns of a Blood Dragon, exuding an aura of dominance and regality, like a crown atop a raging dragon king.

    In reality, her Seed of Creation, known as the Blood Spirit Dragon Seed, was sealed within these horns. If not for her sealed talent, she would have reigned supreme in the Endless Netherworld long ago.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The final tier runic seal unlocked, unleashing a surge of extraordinary talent into her bloodstream, mingling with her devilish blood to further amplify the Blood Cmity power.

    "Mother and father said, on the day the Nine-Tiered Bloodline talent is unlocked, the Nine Hells Venerable Devil shallmand all realms..." the War Princess muttered in a daze. That was the dream. But how could dreams, especially in one''s darkest hour, manifest into reality?

    The pressure her parents bore, the anguish in her heart, it was like a bottomless abyss, swallowing her soul whole. Only in this world had she found respite, a chance to be herself again. And now, even if this power wasn''t truly hers, she reveled in it.

    "At least, when I return to the Endless Netherworld in this form, they won''t know I am someone else''s blood ve..." the War Princess mused with a self-deprecating smile. No need for self-cultivation. Every battle fought and victory earned would be hers alone. She craved glory, a chance to prove herself.

    Now, as her wounds healed and her long hair cascaded down, she trembled slightly, struggling to stand. She looked down, her eyes settling on the strikingly handsome human youth before her. Her heart churned with tumultuous emotions as she addressed Yun Xiao, pride still evident in her voice, "Can we strike a deal?"

    "Maybe change into something else first? I can''t focus on your words otherwise..." Yun Xiao responded, eyes averted. He found it hard to maintain eye contact without getting dazzled.

    Blushing, the War Princess felt an unfamiliar sense of embarrassment and quickly changed into tighter attire.

    Yun Xiao, speechless, could only stare.

    "Having been through all these unimaginable events, I''ve had a lot to think about," the War Princess dered, drawing a deep breath and fixing her gaze on Yun Xiao. "I don''t wish to die anymore. I want to live. I''ll follow your everymand, just let me live!"

    "Why this sudden desire to live?" Yun Xiao asked coolly.

    "I used to be the joke of the Endless Netherworld, a disappointment to my race and my parents. But now, with my Nine-Tiered Bloodline unlocked, I want to prove myself, make them proud!" Each word she spoke carried the weight of her long-cherished dreams.

    "Are you sure you can follow all mymands?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Yes, I am sure!"

    "Including sacrificing yourself?" Yun Xiao asked sharply.

    "You!" The War Princess bit her lip, a coldugh escaping her as she scornfully looked at Yun Xiao. "You''re just refraining from using me to create a body double for this very purpose, aren''t you? You''re a wicked, disgusting, shallow man of the human race!"

    Not satisfied, she added, "What a waste of your good looks."

    "If you continue insulting me, you''ll lose this chance," Yun Xiao paused, then continued, "Glory or dignity¡ªyou can only choose one. If you want to return to the Endless Netherworld and prove yourself, forget about dignity in my presence. Choose!"

    Clutching her fists, the War Princess wrestled with the most ufortable struggle within. Finally, she bowed her head, her eyes brimming with tears, "I choose glory."

    "A wise choice," Yun Xiao remarked. Then, turning to the small ck creature, he asked, "Blue Star, if I retrieve the Blood Baseter on, is there a chance she won''t die?"

    "Yes, there is. Think of it as cultivating the Blood Base within her. When you need it, just take it back. She''ll enter a state of suspended animation once she loses the core of her bloodline, but with some of the Blood Cmity power sustaining her, she should survive for a while. You can just put it back when you''re done," Blue Star exined.

    Hearing this, the War Princess''s tense heart slightly rxed, yet tears streamed down her face. Just as Yun Xiao had said, from now on, she would be a blood ve devoid of dignity.

    "Don''t get me wrong, I''m not pitying her. Having Moon Fairy made me realize that having multiple identities and nting undercover agents everywhere not only doesn''t hinder cultivation progress, but can also have some unexpected benefits," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "I believe you!" Blue Star nodded earnestly.

    "I believe too. After all, I can''t bear to part with our new source of devil milk..." Red Moon chimed in weakly.

    "..." Yun Xiao rolled his eyes. He wanted to argue, but It was tooplicated to exin, and quite frankly, a nuisance!

    "But in the end, she''s destined to die. Once the Creator Immortal reaches full maturity, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood must return," Blue Star said solemnly.

    "How long until then?" the War Princess asked, biting her lip.

    "How long? Oh, that''s ages away! At least longer than your original lifespan." Blue Star chuckled.

    "Oh..." the War Princess pursed her lips, looking at Yun Xiao, "As long as I regain my glory in the Endless Netherworld, I''ll have no regrets in death."

    "Suit yourself." Yun Xiao didn''t want to make any early judgments about whaty ahead. Death or life, it was all down to fate. They''d find out soon enough. He wasn''t short of love, so there was no chance of developing any feelings for the War Princess. Her valuey in her identity and purpose.

    "Try out your fighting strength," Yun Xiao suggested. The War Princess'' body, trained by Yun Xiao, still relied on her own skills in battle. This was different from having a body double.

    Yun Xiao used Moon Fairy to fight her. During this process, he allowed her to use the Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>At that moment, when the power truly returned to her body, the War Princess''s eyes turned even redder.

    "How does it feel?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "So strong, so fierce, so wonderful..." she murmured.

    The War Princess looked down at her hands and legs, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood coursing through her, transforming her body, face, and eyes, exuding a different kind of beauty. She seemed even more stunning and seductive than before, a rare beauty of her kind. She was the epitome of a devil, a Mortal Dust Devil, one that cultivated the Greater Blood Cmity!

    Then she tested her strength, casually throwing a palm strike, sending waves of blood surging forward. The Mortal Dust Devil Blood''s power, inherently sinister and lethal, was the bane of life, somewhat akin to the Heaven Burial Sword Soul! Her realm hadn''t changed, but her lethality had skyrocketed. She gazed at Yun Xiao with a dazed look, her mind still a whirlwind of mixed emotions.

    "Okay, that''s a wrap!" Yun Xiao said. As long as the War Princess carried the Mortal Dust Devil Seed within her, he was, in a way, always with her, enabling them tomunicate.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Just as Yun Xiao finished speaking, Moon Fairy, having absorbed enough Deste Essence on the other side, broke through to the Establishment Saint Demon Realm, leaping two stages in one go. This marked a breakthrough for human, demon, and devil, all within the ancient bronze coffin.

    "Establish Saint Demon Realm, now I can avenge my master..." Yun Xiao''s eyes, ncing at the white jade earring on Moon Fairy''s ear, were cold and resolute.

    With 100 million demon soldiers surrounding the city and the Violet Sky army marching to the lower realms, he finally had the upper hand with the War Princess, a top-tierbatant, on his side, ready to confront the demon race head-on.

    "First, we''ll inform the Supreme Marshal to march towards the Ancestral Temple." Thinking this, Yun Xiao turned to the War Princess, "You will join me in eradicating demons at the Ancestral Temple."

    "Yes..." The War Princess felt a tad more at ease knowing Yun Xiao''s urgency was to y demons, not to conquer her. "Once he''s done with the demons, my untouched status might notst, s... a blood ve!" The very thought was a humiliation. Only the prospect of regaining her honor in the Endless Netherworld offered her some sce.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A loud explosion rocked the outside of the ancient bronze coffin, just as Yun Xiao was prepared to leave.

    "There''s a girl outside who''s been attacking for quite a while," Blue Star suddenly mentioned.

    "Why didn''t you say so earlier?" Yun Xiao red.

    "It wouldn''t have made a difference. I couldn''t interrupt your Blood Base crafting," Blue Star retorted.

    Yun Xiao, not dwelling on it, stepped out of the coffin. Hended on the ground, with Moon Fairy and the War Princess following behind.

    In front of Yun Xiao stood a girl with a butterfly knot on her back, eyeing them coldly.

    "A Sword Cultivator, with 600yers of Sword Aura?" Yun Xiao was stunned.

    "The War Princess from the Endless Netherworld?" As Qian Die recognized the War Princess, her face showed utter disbelief, "Human, devil, and demon, all allied together? What strange bedfellows!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 225: Exceptional Devil!

    Chapter 225: Exceptional Devil!

    Qian Die couldn''t help but recall the heart-wrenching cries of the woman she had just heard, her expression turning increasingly bizarre.

    She looked at the War Princess with eyes full of disdain. "No wonder they say the devil''s ways are wildly indulgent. You, a discarded princess, embracing both human and demon, revel in suchvishness!"

    "Who is this?" Yun Xiao asked the War Princess, his brow slightly furrowed.

    "A Sword Cultivator from the Eternal Sword Prison," she replied.

    Yun Xiao hadn''t heard of this ce, but he guessed it must be formidable, akin to the Endless Netherworld. With Blue Star and Red Moon by his side, he knew his view was broad enough. The journey from mortal to Creator Immortal was immeasurable, filled with countless paths to the heavens. This path, once embarked upon, would inevitably lead to stronger and stronger opponents. It was all part of the game!

    "A Sword Cultivator, huh..." Yun Xiao felt a slight headacheing on. The human-devil-demon secret was his to keep, and this woman, once she left, would likely shatter his grand n.

    Before he could speak, the butterfly-knotted woman turned to him and said coldly, "So you''re the husband of the human Empress, a genius Sword Cultivator? I thought you were a promising talent, willing to take you to the Eternal Sword Prison for further training. But here you are, unfaithful despite having a partner, so despicable in character. As long as I am around, a person who fraternizes with devils and demons like you shall never tarnish the sacred grounds of the Eternal Sword Prison!"

    "I never said I wanted to go to your Eternal Sword Prison," Yun Xiao replied calmly.

    Disappointed, Qian Die could only shake her head at him and sigh, "A frog in a well, short-sighted, ignorant of the vast world, and you dream of mastering the sword? Yun Xiao, brace yourself for your downfall. We Sword Cultivators can''t stand impurity. Someone as tainted as you doesn''t deserve the world''s praise." With that, she turned to leave, her sense of justice shining in her eyes.

    She hadn''t gone far before she couldn''t resist looking back at Yun Xiao, sneering, "That coffin of yours was quite peculiar, must be something valuable. My master has a keen interest in such oddities. Hand it over willingly, and you might just find a way to survive."

    "Who is your master?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "It''s Gu Baiyi!" Qian Die dered proudly.

    Upon hearing this, Yun Xiao nodded and then turned to the War Princess. "Kill her."

    Qian Die was momentarily stunned, thinking she had heard wrong, and scoffed coldly, "You think a useless princess at the Early Awakened Emperor Realm can do it?" Of course, she was at the same level of cultivation! Had she been stronger, she would have already made her move.

    But then, in the very instant Yun Xiao''s words faded, while Qian Die was still smirking, the War Princess''s blood-red steel whip, like a venomous dragon,shed out furiously, entangling Qian Die in a blink!

    "Uh?" Bound by immense force, Qian Die¡¯s arms, waist, and legs were instantly soaked in blood!<em> WHOOSH! </em>The Mortal Dust Devil Blood overwhelmed her, draining her blood.

    Torrents of fresh blood flowed along the whip towards the War Princess.

    "Master!" Qian Die''s face twisted in rage, ring at the human, devil, and demon before her. She clutched a bead, ready to crush it!

    <em>STAB! </em>A streak of azure light pierced her heart, exploding a three-inch hole in her back.

    "Uh¡­" Qian Die looked down to see the blood-red whip, like a dragon, coiling around her, her blood gushing from her heart like a flood towards the War Princess.

    "Am I dead?" Thisst question popped into her mind just before she copsed with a thud, eyes wide open, limbs stiff, motionless.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>All the blood drained from her body! In an instant, she turned into a bloodless corpse, as if dead for many years. Her face, body, and muscles all copsed inward, turning dark purple and withered. Beauty turned to bones in the blink of an eye.

    Without another word, Yun Xiao stepped forward and thrust his sword into her Sword Bone.

    Qian Die''s Sword Soul wailed, transforming into a pure force absorbed by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    Swiftly, the Sword Aura of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul increased to 550yers, its edge sharper than ever.

    Qian Die''s sword, adorned with four Emperor level Blood Crystal Sword Rings, revealed she possessed a Gxy grade Sword Soul.

    Yun Xiao, seizing the opportunity, deftly removed the four Sword Rings and reced his own four Saint level ones. Now, his sword boasted five Emperor Sword Rings!

    "So manyyers of Sword Auras and Emperor Sword Rings, this Eternal Sword Prison must be a treasure trove!" Yun Xiao chuckled coldly. What a splendid ce! He had a penchant for such splendid ces.

    Behind him, the War Princess witnessed in awe as his Sword Soul devoured Qian Die''s. Her lips parted slightly, her heart trembling once more. She had grown somewhat numb to Yun Xiao''s freakish powers.

    Some folks might not seem mighty at first, but their unique methods hinted at their potential to be monstrous in the future. Yun Xiao was one such person! And so was the War Princess, in her own right. But she was merely a part of Yun Xiao''s monstrous nature, not her own.

    "Don''t move," Yun Xiao instructed, after dealing with the Sword Soul, turning to look at the War Princess.

    She stood rigid, trembling. The Mortal Dust Devil Blood coursed through her veins, driven by her beating heart, under Yun Xiao''s control.

    The vast amount of blood that the War Princess had absorbed from Qian Die was being consumed by the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, extracting the essence of the blood and triggering transformations, forging more Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    Like blood dragons birthed from a blood seed, her heart and blood vessels began to transform her delicate body into a perfect battle entity. Soon, Qian Die''s blood waspletely assimted.

    "Moon Fairy''s Divine Destion Physique devours the Deste Essence of heaven and earth to strengthen his body. But you, blood ve, rely on consuming the essence of blood to elevate your cultivation... The Mortal Dust Devil is indeed more fearsome than the Divine Destion Demon God!"

    Thetter was the true nemesis of all beings.

    "Why don''t you ask my name?" The War Princess clenched her fists, visibly irked.

    "A blood ve is a blood ve; what need is there for a name?" Yun Xiao looked at her coldly. His strategy was to dominate her in spirit, to ensure her submission. It was a battle of wills.

    "You..." The War Princess felt humiliated but had to swallow her pride.

    "Human blood isn''t much use to you, so drink less of it," Yun Xiao advised.

    "This princess refuses to drink demon blood; it''s too foul," she said through gritted teeth.

    "Then drink your devil blood; devil blood holds the power of bloodlines," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "You want me to ughter my own kind?" The War Princess bit her lip.

    "What else? If not to y devils, what use are you? Do you also fancy talking about morals and mercy?"

    Yun Xiao didn''t even need toy a hand on her. As his voice grew colder, the War Princess felt her blood vessels searing with pain, the agony of her bloodline being stripped away, a nightmare ready to unfold at any moment. She didn''t even have the option to end her own life!

    "This is your final warning. In the eyes of the world, you may be a rising unparalleled devil, but in my presence, you only endure and obey; rebellion is not an option." Yun Xiao''s voice echoed in the blood vessels within her.

    "Yes¡­!" The War Princess was filled with sorrow and anger, her sharp fangs piercing her red lips, drawing blood, but she had to swallow it down.

    Yun Xiao changed the subject, asking, "Are the Endless Netherworld and the Eternal Sword Prison two separate pocket universes?"

    "No, they belong to the same universe called the Nine Hells. There are nine hells in total, and the Divine and Demon Continents lie in the creases and folds between the Endless Netherworld and the Eternal Sword Prison,nds formed by the squeezing together of these two realms," the War Princess replied, head bowed.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao''s gaze turned icy as he looked outside. "Next, we split up. Your target is the Violet Emperor! I''ll give you the details of the n on the way."

    "Yes!" The War Princess nodded. From that moment on, Yun Xiao would reside within her. Though he couldn''t know her thoughts, he could control all her actions.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Human, devil, and demon, the three split ways right at the entrance of the underground pce. From then on, it was unlikely anyone would see them together again. As they departed, Yun Xiao had already left, while the War Princess lingered, looking at Moon Fairy.

    She knew, this was also Yun Xiao¡­ It was as if he were omnipresent!

    "What are you staring at? Move!" Moon Fairy said coldly.

    "Yes..." The War Princess suppressed the annoyance and rage in her heart. The proud princess of the Endless Netherworld, now a mere blood ve. This change of status was something she''d have to adapt to for a long time.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Ancestral Temple, within a slightly secluded courtyard of a mansion resided the Violet Emperor. His hands sped behind his back, he stood in the main hall, his eyes closed in meditation.

    "Your Majesty, a decree from Forbidden Fate! The Supreme Marshal, Du Ding, has sent someone to seek your guidance," the Violet Sky Prime Minister, Wei Feng, reported as he entered with a peculiar expression.

    Compared to Moon Fairy, who had raced back alone at breakneck speed, the messenger of the Violet Sky Immortal Army was indeed much slower. After all, descending to the Ancestral Temple meant being cautious of attacks from cultivators of the Heavenly Realm.

    "Oh? Speak," the Violet Emperor replied, his tone indifferent.

    Wei Feng hurriedly whispered into the Violet Emperor''s ear the decisions made by the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor after the disappearance in the Primordial Array.

    "Not to attack the Heavenly Realm, but to ughter the civilians of the lower realms instead. Forbidden Fate is forcing us in Violet Sky tomit such atrocities. His heart is venomous! Du Ding is uncertain and seeks your decree," Wei Feng said, bowing.

    The Violet Emperorughed upon hearing this. Without hesitation, he said, "I''ve told you before, Violet Sky has reached a point of no return. If we''re to be the viins, we must embrace our wickednesspletely. Hesitation and looking back are our greatest taboos."

    "Yourmand is my wish," Wei Feng replied, feeling uneasy but understanding that Violet Sky was now irrevocably tied to the demons, a tiger difficult to dismount,pelled to kill at its whim.

    "Are you worried about Violet Sky being condemned, especially the potential upheaval in our own empire?" the Violet Emperor asked with a smile.

    "Yes," Wei Feng nodded. The situation in each Immortal Empire wasplex, and there were diverse opinions within Violet Sky about their current stance.

    "Don''t bother with fleeting public opinion. The foolishck the ability to think independently. They vent their rage wherever the wind blows, mere creatures of unthinking fury. The truth doesn''t matter. Let them vent their frustrations as the underss, get their fill of righteousness, and they will quiet down," the Violet Emperor said, sneering coldly. "I have a cunning n to quell the discontent in Violet Sky."

    "Please enlighten me, Your Majesty!" Wei Feng said respectfully.

    The Violet Emperor looked towards the direction of the Divine Dawn Royal Pce and sneered. "Have the entire Violet Sky Immortal Army discard their Violet Sky armor, iming to be soldiers of Divine Dawn. Split into two groups: one of nine million to invade the ny-nine territories of the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire to kill, and the other one million to return to Violet Sky to ughter our own people. This will stir public outrage, shifting the me and anger. The unthinking masses will then be manipted into crossing borders to attack the Divine Dawn Immortal Empire!"

    Wei Feng was left utterly shocked by these words.

    The Violet Emperor shrugged his shoulders, his eyes brimming with disdain. "Themon folk are but foolish pigs! Blind to the obvious, they thrive on conspiracy theories. Just hint at a mystery that affects them, and their anger ignites, leaping headlong into the pit. I''ll take a leaf out of Divine Dawn''s book and write a little piece myself. Stirring emotions? I''m quite good at that too!"

    "Sound reasoning," Wei Feng replied with a helpless smile. "I''ll inform Du Ding right away."

    "No rush," the Violet Emperor said gravely. "Surviving in this crevice requires wisdom! The Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array strategy is ambiguous but can''t withstand probing. We in Violet Sky must not be the cannon fodder in this chaos. Let Du Ding take his time. Here in the Ancestral Temple, I bet the Demon Emperors will soon send a small force to the Heavenly Realm''s markets to kill and test the waters. We''ll see what happens then!"

    "Yes!" Wei Feng pondered, then asked softly, "Your Majesty, is there a chance the Primordial Array malfunctioned on its own?"

    "That''s highly unlikely!" The Violet Emperor thought of Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao, these two formidable youths, and finally shook his head. "One is steady and ruthless, the other cunning and sinister. They excel in ying possum. This must be another of their tricks, and the Forbidden Fate''s siege tactic is sound. Indeed, many cultivators from the Heavenly Realm are fleeing."

    The Violet Emperor turned towards the depths of the Ancestral Temple and muttered, "Let''s see what scale of force the Demon Emperors send for this probing attack!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>BANG! </em>A young man in ck suddenly extended his palm, striking hard across the face of a golden-haired, burly man! The golden-haired man crashed into the wall, breaking through several pces before finally getting up, half of his face covered in blood.

    It was the Ape Saint! And the young man in ck was, of course, the youngest Eclipse Demon Emperor. He had the bloodline of the Heavenly Hound, the King of Beasts!

    "So you''ve be a traitor to the demon race too, even taking that rebel to Forbidden Fate?" The Eclipse Demon Emperor''s face was ferocious, his canine teeth gleaming coldly, his eyes burning with fire. He had already judged Moon Fairy guilty, but he hadn''t expected these Demon Saints to flirt with him under his nose.

    After much chasing, was Moon Fairy actually hiding in the Ancestral Temple all this time? This was a tant challenge to the authority of the king of beasts.

    "Eclipse Demon Emperor!" The Burning Saint helped the Ape Saint up, his tone grave. "Forbidden Fate has ordered that Moon Fairy''s case be judged after the battle! You have no right to punish him now!"

    "Judge after the battle? Letting this traitor wreak havoc under our noses, and it''ll be toote after the battle!" The young man in ck had never felt so ridiculous! If not for this farce, their group would have moved out much sooner.

    "Gu Emperor, Red Lotus!" Eclipse turned to the other two Demon Emperors, his voice harsh. "We must root out Moon Fairy first. As long as that traitor lives, our grand n is in jeopardy. This little beast has bewitched Forbidden Fate and set a foolish n, proving his collusion with the humans to buy time!"

    "Eclipse, please respect Forbidden Fate''s orders!" Burning Saint said. He was the second-inmand of the resentment demons. Backed by the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor, his authority couldn''t be ignored. He ced himself in front of his friend, the Ape Saint, and continued coldly, "Let me remind you once again. Moon Fairy''s talents far exceed those of Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao. He is a future Demon Emperor of our Demon Continent! You''re using coincidences to frame him, driven by envy and a narrow mind! I speak on behalf of the resentment demons and Forbidden Fate; stand down!"

    "Fool!" The Eclipse Demon Emperor was so furious he was about to explode.

    "Who''s the fool? I know why you''re panicking! You mistakenly killed Lady Hua Lian, incurring a life-and-death feud with Moon Fairy. You''re toote to regret it now! Of course, you want to nder him, to push him away!" Burning Saint retorted with a coldugh.

    The top-ranking Demon Saints watched their quarrel, speechless for a moment.

    Burning Saint hadn''t been this bold before, but with Forbidden Fate''s rising status, he too had risen in prominence. Otherwise, the next p from the young man in ck might very wellnd on his face.

    "Gu Emperor, Lotus!" At his wit''s end, the young man in ck turned to them.

    As the eldest, the Gu Emperor could only sigh and say, "I know Eclipse well. He''s not the jealous type. If a prodigy emerges among the beasts, he''d be delighted."

    Hearing this, the young man in ck''s rage subsided slightly.

    "But¡ª" The Gu Emperor sighed again. "Since Forbidden Fate has given the order, we''ll follow his instructions and investigate thoroughly after the battle."

    "You!" The Eclipse Demon Emperor''s anger red up even more.

    "Lil Pup!" Red Lotus grabbed him, urgently softening her voice, "Forbidden Fate has already given the orders. Your actions now are pointless. To prove Moon Fairy is a traitor, just focus on one thing¡ªthe Primordial Array. If we rampage in the Heavenly Realm''s markets and they don''t activate the array, it''ll prove Moon Fairy''s advice was just to buy time."

    "Red Lotus, I just want to know what you think," Eclipse pressed, staring intently at her.

    "I believe in you," Red Lotus replied.

    "Fine!" Eclipse gritted his teeth, then turned coldly to the Ape Saint. "If you want to prove that fox is one of us, then immediately muster a million beast demons and follow me out of the Ancestral Temple to attack the Heavenly Realm!"

    "Yes!" The Ape Saint nodded in agreement.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After some time, over a million beast demons had gathered in front of the Ancestral Temple. The Eclipse Demon Emperor, his eyes bloodshot with fury, stood at the forefront.

    "Charge!" hemanded, leading the million-strong horde, ready to rush forward.

    Just as they started their thunderous advance, a silver Three-Tailed Demon Fox, shrouded in white mist, suddenly sprang out from the Heavenly Realm''s market,nding right in front of the beast army!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the demon fox hit the ground, the earth cracked open, creating a huge rift that sted right up to Eclipse!

    "Moon Fairy!" The demons of the Ancestral Temple were all stirred. The million-strong demon army, gazing at this fox, were thrown into confusion. Was he a traitor or a shunned genius?

    "You dare to show up?" Eclipse was already seething. Seeing the fox, his face twisted grotesquely, morphing into a dark beastly visage.

    "For trying to alienate me, you lead a million of our kin to their doom. Why wouldn''t Ie?" The Three-Tailed Demon Fox retorted coldly.

    The Eclipse Demon Emperor let out a sinisterugh. "Anxious, are we? Seems like there really is a problem with the Primordial Array."

    "You stupid fucking mutt! The War of Immortals started because you were provoked first, attacking the battlefield, and now you me me? Can''t you see how cunning these humans are from that battle? Still think there''s a problem with the Primordial Array? Dream on! How many more human traps do you n to fall into?" Moon Fairy shot back coldly.

    "The truth about the Primordial Array will be clear with a test," the Gu Demon Emperor called from behind.

    "Then why don''t you send a million of your insect demons to test it? Why should my beast race be cannon fodder? If you really want to test, let the resentment, insect, nt, beast, and bird demons each contribute two hundred thousand! And didn''t Forbidden Fate order you, Gu Emperor, to do the killing? Now, you''re ying dumb here and making my beast demons do your bidding!" Moon Fairy scoffed. His words instantly cooled the fiery rage of the million beast demons, their fervor quickly dying down...

 Chapter 226: Favor Nurtured, a Hundred Lifetimes to Repay!

    Chapter 226: Favor Nurtured, a Hundred Lifetimes to Repay!

    In the Demon Continent, the five great demon ns were always at odds with each other. Even infighting was not umon. But now, bound by a shared destiny, they hade together, setting aside their differences.

    Truth be told, the demons had little to grumble about Moon Fairy. using someone of treason just because of two coincidences was, after all, baseless. What if it was a false usation? That would mean losing the future of their demon race for nothing. After the great chaos, they were left with just a single scion...

    After hearing Moon Fairy''s provocation, the Gu Emperor¡¯s face darkened, and he said, ¡°Don¡¯t spout nonsense. If you have misunderstandings, let''s settle this simply. Each of us can bring forth two hundred thousand!¡±

    "Don''t listen to his nonsense! I¡¯ll finish him off and be done with it!" Eclipse exploded in rage.

    "Stop!" the Gu Emperor, Red Lotus, and Burning Saint shouted. Yet, only Burning Saint stepped up; the other two showed no intention of actually stepping in.

    "If these two don¡¯t intervene, who can stop the Eclipse Demon Emperor in his frenzy?" Burning Saint thought, annoyed. Who could stop this crazed dog?

    "With Lady Hua Lian''s death, only one of these wille out alive! What a pity!" The Ape Saint sighed.

    "Let''s watch for now. If things get dicey, we can always intervene and help Moon Fairy, right?" Burning Saint probed.

    "Nope! I''m out." the Ape Saint replied. He''d been scared into submission after being smacked in the face.

    And so, at the gates of the Ancestral Temple, an unprecedented battle erupted between the future prodigy of the Demon Continent and a Demon Emperor. No one dared to intervene. Offending either was unthinkable.

    "You wretched fox! A bewitching, weak race! You just beguile people''s hearts and dare to call yourself an Emperor of the Demon Continent?" Eclipse growled. No matter how much Burning Saint boasted, as a Heavenly Hound served by foxes, he knew their n all too well.

    With a howl, the young man in ck transformed into a colossal, pitch-ck Heavenly Hound. He had a lion''s mane, a wolf-like body, and massive limbs. His true form shrouded the sky and nketed the streets in a nket of ck mist, emanating a powerful miasma. The destructive power behind his howl alone turned a dozen buildings along the street into dust!

    <em>HUM! </em>Before him, the silver Three-Tailed Fox''s fur rippled. Compared to the Heavenly Hound, the fox exuded elegance and a solitary coldness. In terms of ferocity, it was leagues apart from the Heavenly Hound!

    "Die!" Eclipse charged like a rampaging elephant. Wherever his fleshly body went, the ground cracked, the air shook, and a demonic wind howled. ck mes ignited on his body, burning almost thousand meters high, forming a domain that spread rapidly around him!

    "Master! Today, I will avenge you and y this so-called Demon Emperor!" Moon Fairy dered, tugging at his heart-shaped earring, a gesture so moving it could bring tears to the eyes of the onlookers.

    In the eyes of the demon horde, the demon fox''s flesh was weak, capable only of bewitching opponents. However, when Moon Fairy, with the power of the Divine Destion Physique, ignited hundreds of Deste Essences within him, he reached a state almost equal to the Eclipse Demon Emperor, showcasing a raw, visceral power that was astonishing to behold!

    The Heavenly Hound was like a fierce beast, a mix of a lion and a wolf! One ck, one silver! These two beast demons collided with a thunderous boom, like an army shing! In this demonic fight, instincts ruled. Every move was lethal, every w dripped blood, all fearless and wild!

    The Heavenly Hound bit at Moon Fairy''s neck, attempting to tear the fox apart. Little did it know, the fox''s flesh was harder than any magic treasure, and its sharp teeth slid off the fox''s fur!

    <em>RIP! </em>Moon Fairy sidestepped, his ws sinking into the Heavenly Hound''s flesh, leaving five bloody trails. The intense power of Destion surged into the Eclipse Demon Emperor''s body!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Blood sttered as Moon Fairy''s three tails coiled around the Heavenly Hound''s neck like steel whips. He flipped over, pressing down on the Heavenly Hound''s back with a mighty force!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The massive ck Heavenly Hound was pressed down, smashing into the ground and shattering the ground for almost a thousand meters around, sending thick smoke billowing into the air!

    With tails constricting his neck, ws embedded in his flesh, and teeth biting into the Eclipse Demon Emperor''s head, Moon Fairy was a force to be reckoned with!

    Blood sttered as Moon Fairy bit off a crimson ear and spat it out in front of the crowd, still burning with ck mes.

    "Ah?!!" This brutal, explosive, reckless scene was far from the elegant behavior expected of a fox demon. It was more akin to a burly brute masquerading as a delicate damsel! In a single encounter, a fox, relying purely on its physical strength and toughness, had firmly overpowered the Eclipse Demon Emperor!

    All the demons present were dumbstruck, their minds nk.

    "What in the world?" The Ape Saint''s jaw dropped, even forgetting the pain of the p on his face.

    "Berserk, isn''t it?" Burning Saint couldn''t help but feel a surge of joy. He was even more convinced now. Moon Fairy was on par with a Demon Emperor. Only a lunatic would stoop to serve the human race, right? "Would anyone believe a lion ughtering its pride only to kneel before a rabbit?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Before their eyes, buildings crumbled into ruins under the ferocious battle of the two demons. They rampaged everywhere, turning walls to dust and scorching the earth.

    "You stupid mutt, I killed your sister with my own hands! I tricked her, lured her to a remote ce, she thought I fancied her. When she least expected it, I bit off her dog head! Even if you know, what can you do to me?" Moon Fairy hissed, mming the frenzied Heavenly Hound into ake, then sneered softly.

    <em>PSSST! </em>The vastke evaporated instantly!

    "You!" The enraged ck behemoth, half-drenched in blood, roared out, its killing intent sky-high.

    "That day during the Grand Melee, I worked with Yun Xiao in the shadows of the ck Box Battle to annihte your Demon Continent''s prodigies. What can you do to me? Do you think anyone believes you, you worthless mutt?" Moon Fairyughed mockingly. "You''re just a lowly beast, how dare you fight me!"

    "You despicable fox!" Eclipse''s eyes nearly burst in rage! Gathering all its strength, it unleashed a ck moon, over 300 meters in diameter, towards Moon Fairy. The ck moon, like a ck hole, devoured everything in its path. It flew directly towards the demon fox who got caught in its storm and was drawn towards it!

    This was its terrifying demonic magic, Heavenly Hound Devours the Moon, feared in the Divine Continent. Stronger than the Night March of a Hundred Ghosts by the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, it was a ck moon that devoured everything!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ck behemoth chased the ck moon, its face blood-red with fury, charging towards Moon Fairy!

    "Demon magic? I can do that too!" Moon Fairy gave a cold smirk as he unleashed a fox illusion. In an instant, a bewitching world unfolded, engulfing the Eclipse. Suddenly, a young girl in ck appeared before the colossal ck dog.

    "Brother! Don''t kill me, please..." The girl in ck wailed miserably.

    "Lil Lu!" Eclipse''s heart trembled, his eyes swirling into a pale vortex. Stricken with grief, he hastily diverted his Heavenly Hound Devours the Moon.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ck moon veered off course, charging towards Moon Fairy. But in the next moment, the illusion shattered, and the ck moon crashed into the Ancestral Temple, raging through and exploding violently!

    "GAGHHH!!" Around two hundred thousand insect and snake demons, who had just gathered, were annihted by the ck moon, turning to ashes. Numerous pces and pavilions of the Ancestral Temple were blown apart!

    "Eclipse, have you lost your mind? Unable to kill me, you turn on your insect kin?!" Moon Fairy appeared in another direction, ring furiously at the Eclipse Demon Emperor.

    "What!?" The ck behemoth emerged from the illusion, only to find its sister and two hundred thousand insect demons gone!

    The Gu Emperor''s face soured!

    "You!" When the Eclipse Demon Emperor saw the fox again, the cunning, sinister gleam beneath its elegant facade sent a shiver down his spine, realizing its terror toote. Yes, it was already toote!

    Moon Fairy suddenly appeared before Eclipse, his ws piercing his eye, gruesomely shredding one of his eyeballs! Eclipse''s face exploded in pain as he roared!

    <em>BANG! </em>Moon Fairy relentlessly bit his neck, mming him repeatedly to the ground, tearing open his abdomen and spilling his entrails. Blood sprayed wildly!

    "Moon Fairy!" Eclipse''s roar, a mix of rage and fear, echoed throughout, leaving the crowd stunned and their heads spinning. Such a brutal fox, a first in their lifetime!

    This was the battle that truly made a name for Moon Fairy! Until then, consecutive defeats at the hands of Yun Xiao had left the demons feeling stifled and disgraced.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The massive ck Heavenly Hound was mmed down before the gathered demons. Covered in w marks, drenched in blood, its organs spilling out, both eyes burst, and its tongue gruesomely torn out!

    "Gu Emperor! Red Lotus! Save me!" Eclipse, brutal throughout his life, now wailed pitifully, screaming in utter terror. However, the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus instinctively stepped back. Their faces were a battleground of struggle and hesitation. For a moment, they faltered!

    Eclipse couldn''t see this, but the crowd gasped in shock, and his ears caught the sound. To him, this was the most despairing sound in the world!

    "Moon Fairy, King of Beasts! The future of the Demon Continent!" Burning Saint suddenly shouted.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Inside the Ancestral Temple, millions of demons fervently chanted the name ''Moon Fairy''!

    "Ugh!" Eclipse was in agony. Worse than death was dying with endless frustration and injustice. It was his own beloved kin who, at this moment, delivered the final betrayal. There was nothing more despairing in this world.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In the next instant, the Three-Tailed Demon Fox pressed down on its head, opening its jaws wide. It viciously bit out a chunk of the Heavenly Hound''s heart!

    "He''s a traitor! Don''t believe him! Don''t..." As Eclipse cried out hisst words, tears streaming, the Three-Tailed Demon Fox crushed his heart!

    <em>SPLURT! </em>Demon blood sprayed everywhere, drenching the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus from head to toe. The struggling ck Heavenly Hound whimpered and copsed, its eyes empty. It died in front of millions of demons.

    "Well done..." Burning Saint pped his hands, then beckoned Ape Saint to join in. "What are you waiting for? Bring forth the beast ns to bow before the new emperor!"

    "Yes..." Ape Saint''s throat was dry, his body trembling. He knelt down with a thud! One by one, the beast demons, their eyes alight with fervor, prostrated themselves.

    "Moon Fairy Demon Emperor!" Their frenzied shouts echoed throughout the Ancestral Temple! In this glorious moment, the Three-Tailed Demon Fox leapt off the corpse of the ck Heavenly Hound, slowly transforming into a silver-haired youth.

    "Everyone, I hereby vow to y Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao to prove my innocence! Otherwise, I shall end my own life here!" Moon Fairy dered righteously.

    "There''s no need for such vows!" Burning Saint''s blood boiled. "You''ve already proven yourself! You are the greatest demon of the Demon Continent, envied by the ipetent! Lead our kind to vanquish the humans; you need not prove anything else!"

    "Right! Anyone else who nders will meet the same fate as that worthless mutt!" Ape Saint spoke through gritted teeth.

    "Thank you all for your trust!" Tears in his eyes, Moon Fairy stood atop the corpse of the Eclipse Demon Emperor, holding up a heart-shaped earring and announcing mournfully. "The debt of nurturing is hard to repay in a hundred lifetimes. Master, I''ve finally avenged you¡­"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 227: Trampling the Ancestral Temple!

    Chapter 227: Trampling the Ancestral Temple!

    Inside the Ancestral Temple, atop a towering building stood the Violet Emperor. He''d been keenly observing the battle unfolding outside the temple''s entrance gate. "The Heavenly Realm has Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao, and the Demon Continent sees the rise of Moon Fairy. In these turbulent times, talents emerge like spring shoots. Who will seize control and be remembered for ages?"

    The Violet Emperor''s gaze, heavy and intense,nded on Moon Fairy, his eyes burning with fervor. "Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao carry the burden alone, standing as solitary pirs. Even geniuses turn to dust upon death. Meanwhile, the demons aided by the devils, and Moon Fairy guarded by Forbidden Fate, are as unshakable as a mountain!"

    "I have no right to surrender, huh?" the Violet Emperor muttered, recalling hisst encounter with Yun Xiao. The words still lingered in his ears, scorching at his heart like a brand. A deep murderous intent surged in his eyes.

    "One of you, either you or Moon Fairy, must perish. Today, it seems, it is your end, Yun Xiao." Having said this, the Violet Emperor prepared to descend the stairs to congratte Moon Fairy. Of the original five great Demon Emperors, he had been closest to this Heavenly Hound, but it appeared those days were long gone.

    Just then, a chilling, blood-red light suddenly emerged behind the Violet Emperor, wrapping around his neck like creeping vines.

    "Who''s there?" The Violet Emperor felt a cold shiver down his spine and whirled around!

    In the darkness stood a tall woman with ck hair and red eyes, her skin like snow and her legs shapely. Horns like blood dragons adorned her head, her face as bewitching as a devil, naturally seductive, truly a rare beauty.

    "Your Highness, the War Princess!" The Violet Emperor, both respectful and fearful, quickly knelt. He knew this devil from the Endless Netherworld held a high position and wielded great power. She came to see him alone?

    The War Princess stood, her face a mask of deep, cold indifference. She didn''t speak but walked beside the Violet Emperor, facing the grand doors of the Ancestral Temple.

    The Mortal Dust Devil Blood surged from her body, like blood dragons coiling around the Violet Emperor. This bloodthirsty, sinister aura exerted immense pressure on him. This invisible force, in reality, was a suppression of the Violet Emperor''s very soul, making him instinctively bow lower, his face slightly pale.

    In the Divine and Demon Continents, the only beings the Violet Emperor revered were Forbidden Fate and this War Princess.

    "Do you know why Divine Dawn won''t open the gates of the Heavenly Realm and the Primordial Array?" the War Princess suddenly asked, her voice as cold as if it came from theherworld.

    The Violet Emperor was momentarily stunned, then shook his head, "I do not know, My Lady."

    "The reason is simple," the War Princess said nonchntly. "Divine Dawn and I nned to lure the demons into the Heavenly Realm, cut off their retreat, and annihte them, wiping out their entire race."

    At these words, the Violet Emperor''s face crinkled in shock, sucking in a breath of cold air. Considering his ties with the demons, his heart skipped a beat, his hands clenched, ready to flee at a moment''s notice! But why was she telling him this?

    The Violet Emperor calmed himself, his voice heavy with concern. "War Princess, aren''t you friends with Forbidden Fate? I''m curious... why?"

    "Friends? That undead abomination is worthy of friendship! Didn''t your daughter visit the Endless Netherworld? Don''t you know how exalted my status is?" the War Princess scoffed.

    "Yes!" The Violet Emperor nodded, indeed aware of her esteemed position.

    The War Princess looked down at him, her gaze icy. "The reason is simple. Demons are encroaching on the Divine Continent, wanting to exterminate humanity. But I don''t want that. I aim to create a vast blood bank in both the Divine and Demon Continents for the Endless Netherworld. I need humans alive and those unruly, contemptible demons exterminated to ensure the breeding of our blood ves."

    These words struck the Violet Emperor like a bolt of lightning. He knew devils loved human blood, not demon blood. On the dining tables of the Endless Netherworld, human blood was a delicacy, demon blood the dregs.

    In just a few words, The Violet Emperor''s reverence for the demons shattered, reducing Forbidden Fate and Moon Fairy from celestial stars to mere dust.

    "War Princess!" The Violet Emperor''s gaze intensified. "Do you mean to say that you and Divine Dawn have reached an agreement to exterminate the demons and then use all living beings as a blood bank to sustain the Endless Netherworld?"

    "Not exactly an agreement. I deceived her," the War Princess revealed with a cold smile. "I only agreed to help her exterminate the demons, without discussing the details. Demons are stronger than humans, and due to the barrier issues of our world, only a few powerful beings from the Endless Netherworld cane here. So, I n to eradicate the demons first, then take down Divine Dawn, ying the fisherman in the end."

    "Oh..." The Violet Emperor trembled inwardly, his eyes shining. He hastily added, "My Lady, if you exterminate the demons and y Divine Dawn, would you need apliant, qualified human representative to manage the masses, build the blood bank, and create a prosperous human era for you? I believe Divine Dawn would rather die than agree to this, but I am more than willing!"

    The War Princess chuckled lightly at his words, patting the Violet Emperor''s head in approval. "You''re a smart man. You understand why I sought you out alone."

    "To serve the devils is my lifelong honor." The Violet Emperor bowed, a sinister smile curling at his lips.

    "Once the human blood bank is established," the War Princess said casually, as if discussing something mundane. "Your Violet Sky nobility will be exempt from blood donations. The rest of humanity will be blood pigs, confined in cages their entire lives, forbidden from cultivation, bred and paired with drugs. Any resistance will implicate nine generations of their families."

    "Yes! On behalf of the Violet Sky, I thank My Lady for this grace! We are prepared to die in your service." The Violet Emperor''s eyes zed with fervor.

    "Divine Dawn''s saintly demeanor disgusts me. You, however, are smart," the War Princess mused with a strange expression.

    "I dare not presume," the Violet Emperor said humbly.

    "By the way," the War Princess raised an eyebrow, "I heard you were following that undead abomination''s orders to massacre civilians in the Divine Continent. Those are my blood pigs!"

    The Violet Emperor shuddered, hastily replying, "Your Highness, please rest assured, I''ll immediately order a halt to the operation!"

    "Move quickly!" the War Princessmanded, her voice tinged with displeasure.

    "Yes!" the Violet Emperor responded.

    "After stopping the operation, have your 10 million-

    strong army hide behind the vast horde of demon forces, awaiting mymand," she ordered with an air of authority.

    "Yes!" The Violet Emperor nodded in agreement.

    "Go and send the message," the War Princess said, then, arms crossed, she looked towards the Ancestral Temple with a cold smirk. "That undead abomination is smarter than I thought, choosing to besiege for ten days instead of walking into my trap. Well then, I''ll just tten the Ancestral Temple first! Let''s see if he takes the bait!"

    "Ah?" The Violet Emperor was taken aback.

    "You haven''t heard the news yet?" The War Princess looked at him with disdain and chuckled coldly. "Divine Dawn and the Nine Heavens Immortal Army are already at the temple''s gates. When the chaos erupts, I want you to backstab Forbidden Fate, catch him off guard."

    "Y-yes!" Hearing this, the Violet Emperor''s eyes quivered again.

    The War Princess gave him a chilling smile. "The future of your Violet Sky nobility hinges on your next move. Perform well, or else there are plenty who''d rece you. Then, your entire noble house would be dinner for the Endless Netherworld."

    The Violet Emperor took a deep breath and nodded gravely. "I understand, My Lady. I will obey!"

    "Go!" The War Princess waved him off.

    The Violet Emperor bowed deeply, his expression one of utmost respect, then retreated to carry out his new mission.

    Once he was gone, the War Princess let out a slight sigh of relief, her gaze dimming as she spoke to her chest, "I''ve repeated every word you said. Are you satisfied now?"

    "Somewhat. You still need to work on your acting skillspared to me," a voice came from her heart.

    Remembering Moon Fairy''s performance, the War Princess couldn''t help but bite her lip, her expression odd, "You really are a drama king."

    "Be bold, call me the King ofno, the Emperor of Acting."

    At the Ancestral Temple, millions of demons were in a state of excitement. With Divine Dawn, Yun Xiao, and the humans, there was some worry. If these two exceptional heroes survived, the Demon Continent''s future would be in peril.

    But now, although they had lost the Eclipse Demon Emperor, they gained a peerless prodigy, sparking endless hope for the future in the hearts of the demon masses.

    As the demons were celebrating, another piece of news came!

    "The Nine Heavens Immortal Army is secretly assembling and charging towards the Ancestral Temple!" the birds circling high in the sky hurriedly reported. In the dark corners of the Heavenly Realm''s streets, venomous insects and snakes also sensed the movement.

    "They''re attacking without us even probing first?"

    As per Moon Fairy''s n, each of the five great demon ns had sent two hundred thousand troops, and he was about to lead a team to test the Primordial Array, but the humans had alreadyunched an assault?

    This explosive news set the hearts of millions at the Ancestral Temple aze with excitement! Most of them were there to watch the spectacle, and not actually part of the organized demon army.

    The demons, adept at brawling and skirmishing, seemed somewhat bewildered once plunged into a state of war, especiallypared to the more organized demon army gathered outside the Heavenly Realm.

    "Divine Dawn is challenging the Ancestral Temple?" The Violet Emperor hurriedly entered a dark and eerie mansion. Inside this shadowy abode, the Gu Emperor, Red Lotus, and 108 Demon Saints were gathered. And of course, there was also Moon Fairy, the newly minted spiritual pir of the demon race.

    "She''s forcing Forbidden Fate to bring the 100 million demons into battle. But what''s the advantage of such a move?" Burning Saint pondered, his gaze inevitably drifting to Moon Fairy.

    "Burning Saint, go invite the War Princess," the Gu Emperormanded, his dark green face creased with worry. From their arrival in the Heavenly Realm to the present, mere days had passed, yet the events unfolding were exceedingly bizarre.

    "Yes!" Burning Saint epted the task and left to fetch her.

    No sooner had he departed than Moon Fairy, seated in a corner, spoke up coldly, "Actually, there''s no need. Those three <em>friends</em> of ours are likely gone."

    Ape Saint, holding a book titled ''Virtue Discourse'' and pausing at the chapter about the Empty Fort Strategy, fell silent upon hearing the Moon Fairy''s words.

    "Why are they gone?"

    "Moon Fairy, please rify," the other Demon Saints urged, all appearing perplexed.

    Hadn''t it been said the devils were new allies? Even if devils were known for their insatiable appetites, expanding their demands from one Empire to two or three, these were matters for negotiation, not grounds for dissolving their alliance. Why couldn''t they just cooperate?

    All eyes in the room turned to Moon Fairy.

    "Everyone''s puzzled why Forbidden Fate chose a siege instead of an immediate attack, forcing Divine Dawn out of the Heavenly Realm to confront us." Moon Fairy stood up and disclosed the conversation between him and the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor to the group.

    The faces of the demons changed dramatically as they listened.

    "The devils have actually allied with Divine Dawn!"

    "Just as suspected, their greed surpasses our imagination!"

    "Damn them!"

    "With this, the three devils plus Divine Dawn, they now have four Awakened Emperor Realm powerhouses."

    The Demon Saints exchanged nces. Fortunately, with Moon Fairy and the Violet Emperor, their side at the Ancestral Temple also boasted four peak powerhouses...

 Chapter 228: Invincible Under the Heavens, Long Live the Empress!

    Chapter 228: Invincible Under the Heavens, Long Live the Empress!

    "The devils, they''ve truly betrayed us..." the Ape Saint muttered, his heart nearly shattering.

    "Just see if Burning Saint can find them, and you''ll have your answer," Moon Fairy said, closing his eyes, his voice heavy with solemnity.

    Not long after, Burning Saint returned with a peculiar look on his face, saying, "I searched high and low in the Ancestral Temple, calling out numerous times, but they never showed up."

    "To hell with their empty fort strategy!" The Ape Saint growled, his face darkening. He tore up the book titled ''Moral Treatise'' right there and then. "Those Endless Netherworld bastards."

    The Demon Saints all turned their eyes to Moon Fairy. His guess of a betrayal had shockinglye true!

    "You big fool, if we had listened to you from the start and sent our 100 million-strong demon army charging down, our Demon Continent would''ve been doomed," Burning Saint said through gritted teeth to the Ape Saint.

    "Enough, let''s drop it. I won''t be teaching lessons in cunning anymore," the Ape Saint replied, feeling utterly deted.

    "Lucky for us, Moon Fairy had the wisdom to see through the ruse and saved us demons from a huge loss," Burning Saint said, looking at the fox demon with fervent admiration, his heart filled with immense gratitude.

    "Two Demon Emperors," the Violet Emperor said, turning to the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus, "With the enemy forces pressing towards the Ancestral Temple and their true intentions revealed, this is an overt plot. If Forbidden Fate doesn''t lead his troops into the Heavenly Realm, we''re cornered for ast stand! But if the army enters, they''ll fall right into the traps set by devils and Divine Dawn. We''re still unclear on what other tricks they might have up their sleeves. What do you think we should do?"

    Hearing this, all the Demon Saints looked gravely concerned. The key point was, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army had assembled on their own turf,unching a swift attack. They were running out of time to react!

    Everyone turned their gaze to the two Demon Emperors. But the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus remained silent. Ever since the Eclipse Demon Emperor fell in battle, they hadn''t uttered a word. The situation was like a massive ship veering uncontrobly off course.

    For some reason, when they saw Eclipse perish miserably before them, a flicker of fear ignited in their hearts. It felt as if an invisible crimson had ensnared their eyes, leading the entire demon race by the nose. Who was the master of this? The War Princess? Divine Dawn?

    "Two Demon Emperors..." the Burning Saint said solemnly, "Please show us a way forward!"

    The Gu Emperor and Red Lotus remained silent.

    Finally, Moon Fairy said, "Inform Forbidden Fate. Whether he chooses to save us or not, it''s his call. I''m ready for ast stand. If the Primordial Array won''t open, we''ll force it open! If not, we march out of the Ancestral Temple and into the pce! For the prosperity of our Demon Continent, what''s there to fear in death?"

    "Right!"

    "We can be the vanguard, opening a path for Forbidden Fate and the 100 million demon troops!"

    In that moment, 108 Demon Saints nodded with determination, their blood ignited.

    "To fight to the death for survival, to uncover the enemy''s secrets, that''s our only path now," the Ape Saint dered, the leader among the beast demons, naturally understanding the situation and supporting Moon Fairy.

    "There is another way," the Gu Emperor suddenly interjected.

    "Please, speak!" the Violet Emperor urged.

    The Gu Emperor took a deep breath, nced at Moon Fairy, and said, "We abandon these millions of demons and break out with the 108 Demon Saints and Violet Sky''s officials. With our peakbat strength, we can cut through the Heavenly Realm. They can''t stop us unless they activate the Heavenly Realm''s gates. Once activated, we can render them useless!"

    At these words, the Demon Saints fell silent.

    "What a joke!" Burning Saint stood up, his eyes zing like torches. "Abandoning millions of our kind for our own escape? That''s not the conduct of the Demon Continent''s heroes! I''d rather die in battle than be a despicable coward fleeing!"

    "Calm down," the Ape Saint tried to soothe him.

    "I am calm!" Burning Saint took a deep breath and said loudly, "I just want to remind everyone that, so far, our Demon Continent and the Heavenly Realm haven''t shed, yet we''ve been led around by the nose. It''s one thing to consider not entering the city with an army of 100 million at the doorstep. But if we, the leaders of the Demon Continent,ck the courage to fight and let ourselves be driven out of the Heavenly Realm, to watch our kin ughtered before our eyes, then what use are our wretched lives?"

    "Everything you''re saying, we all understand," the Violet Emperor stepped forward, ying the peacemaker. He thought for a moment, then added solemnly, "But there''s one thing we''ve all overlookedmorale. Morale is the primary element of war. We already have a powerful force, we can''t afford to show any sign of weakness. This battle must be fought. Otherwise, if the militant factions in the other four Immortal Empires see the Demon Continent faltering, they''ll seize the opportunity to suppress the pro-demon factions within their own nations. Then, if the other four Immortal Empires also join the fight, we''llpletely lose our advantage!"

    "That makes sense!" The Violet Emperor and Moon Fairy clearly sided with those favoring ast stand.

    The 108 Demon Saints were also brimming with battle fervor. They''d been held back too long. Despite their strength, the decision-makers had been too cautious, and they were growing impatient. What was death, after all?

    Seeing this, the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus became even more silent. They felt an overwhelming sense of powerlessness.

    "Inform Forbidden Fate! And prepare for battle!" Red Lotus stood up, her voice cold and drained, as if saying these few words had sapped all her strength.

    Hearing this, the Violet Emperor and Moon Fairy stood firm in their respective stances, their eyes shining with a sly light.

    The bustling streets of the Heavenly Realm, once lively and warm, were now icy and grim.

    Countless soldiers of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army assembled, dividing into nine forces like nine furious dragons converging on the Ancestral Temple.

    Their discipline was irond, their formations unified, their will unwavering, and their hearts held firm beliefs. Years of training and discipline starkly contrasted the motley crowd of demons at the Ancestral Temple, who were more spectators than fighters.

    In addition to these tens of millions of Immortal Army troops, there were millions of cultivators from the Heavenly Realm, mostly robust and young.

    In the past two days, Supreme Marshal Chen Xiao had reorganized them, bolstering theirbat effectiveness significantly. It was clear that these 20 million troops, in discipline and ferocity of thought, were unmatched.

    Whether it was the Divine Dawn Empress'' deration of war or their proactive attack today, both were actions of awe-inspiring boldness. This emboldened the once timid humans, shoring up their historical weaknesses. Now they marched towards the Ancestral Temple without fear, even without the Primordial Array.

    The Primordial Array was indeed gone. But a new Primordial Array had arisen in their hearts. The power of the inner self was endless!

    "Supreme Marshal!" At the front of the army, Sword Saint Sun''s heart surged with fervor. He asked, "Will Her Majesty join the battle today?"

    "Of course, who else will deal with the Demon Emperors? the Supreme Marshal boomed. d in White Tiger battle armor, he stood like a tiger descending the mountain, a pir of strength for the Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    "I''ve waited so long for this day..." Sword Saint Sun gripped the amber ne around his neck, his eyes burning red. Each of the twelve amber beads contained a strand of hair, thest remembrances of his deceased family. His hatred for demons was profound.

    For generations, humans despised demons to their core. It had always been demons killing humans, never humans annihting demons. How many bones of those in by demons were buried under thend of the Divine Continent?

    Sword Saint Sun and his sword remembered every single one. Those who were butchered, whole families sent to the underworld, they never had a chance to speak. Who had the right to pity the demon race for them?

    "Today, we must fight! We must win! If we lose, tens of millions in the Heavenly Realm will be turned into blood soul pirs, and tens of billions in the Divine Continent will never see peace again!"

    The Supreme Marshal''s voice was heavy as he looked back at the millions in his army. "Demons rampant, humanity waning! In our hands, on our shoulders, we bear the peace of countless generations, the dignity and fate of our descendants! All men must die, but we, blessed with unique skills and magic, if not destined for immortality, shall choose to die for our country!"

    How could the hatred of their ancestors be forgiven? And who had the right to forgive? At this moment, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, entrusted with the hopes of tens of billions, d in armor and wielding magical weapons, knew only the fury of battle, not forgiveness.

    "Our ancestors passed down their daoist spells, constructed great formations, forged legacies, creating what we are today! Our lives are not our own. The souls of our ancestors, the glory of a thousand generations, hinge on this one battle!"

    The Chen n''s lineage birthed warriors for generations. Their military spirit was immense! The Divine Dawn Empress'' fierce resolve was undoubtedly influenced greatly by her father, Chen Xiao.

    Words of valor ignited the will to fight to the death in the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. Coupled with the Divine Dawn Empress'' war deration, they charged like nine dragons, thundering towards the Ancestral Temple!

    "Thousands, follow mymand, tten the Ancestral Temple!!"

    A grand, thunderousmand stirred a storm, engulfing the dark pces ahead! The great battle erupted, and speed was of the essence in war!

    The Nine Divine Guards, the Supreme Marshal, Sword Saint Sun, Nangong Xi, and other powerhouses from the five Immortal Empires attacked from nine directions, storming into the Ancestral Temple!

    Breaking through its walls, the endless, brutal, and ferocious demons appeared before their eyes! Cornered, they too fought with a will to die!

    In an instant, the entire Ancestral Temple plunged into a sea of war! Faced with these disorganized demons, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, furious but disciplined, pressed on!

    "Suppress them with magic!" Corporals, captains,manders, generals... a well-ordered hierarchy, the strength of the human army, with teams of ten, squads of a hundred, battalions of a thousand, all systematically arranged!

    As the battlemenced, countless group attack spells unleashed like a tempestuous storm towards the Ancestral Temple, ravaging the demon ranks with annihting force.

    "Defend! Avoid closebat with demons!"

    "Beware of snakes underfoot, birds in the sky!"

    "Form up! Form up!"

    Under thisyered control, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army advanced like nine precise flesh-and-blood killing machines into the heart of the Ancestral Temple! This was their battleground, the Heavenly Realm!

    As humans, the Immortal Army knew the architecturalyout of human buildings like the back of their hand, a battlefield they were intimately familiar with. In the past two days, they had pored over the blueprints of the Ancestral Temple dozens of times, rehearsing their strategies hundreds of times. All this preparation was for this once-in-an-age battle for vengeance.

    "There''s only one chance! If we fail to take the Ancestral Temple, there''s no hope left for the people of the Divine Continent!" It was this belief that reddened the eyes of every human warrior, fueling their fervor even in the face of the demons'' ferocious onught. And the soul of this belief was the Divine Dawn Empress!

    "Has Her Majesty joined the fight yet?" Countless human cultivators gazed ahead with fervent eyes. They were confident in the ground battle, but in this war of Immortals, the sh of peak powers could turn the tide!

    At the most intense moment

    <em>BOOM! </em>Blood-red thunder roared in the sky, countless lightning serpents swirling, shrouding the skies above the Ancestral Temple!

    Thunder rolled! Amidst the thundering, a figure in a golden-red dragon robe and a nine-bead crown, wrapped in dense blood-red lightning, soared into the clouds, imposing like a supreme sovereign, dominating the skies above the Ancestral Temple!

    At that moment, the 20 million-strong army of human cultivators went wild.

    "Our Empress, invincible under heaven, may she live forever!!!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    <strong>And the crossdressing continues...</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 229: Fire Beats Bug Types

    Chapter 229: Fire Beats Bug Types

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Thousands of blood-red thunderbolts pierced the sky, striking the Ancestral Temple. Hundreds of pces, filled with demons, exploded in a fierce burst! Where the blood lightning struck, demons burst open, foaming at the mouth, convulsing on the ground.

    The electric covered the sky! In this battlefield, the figure in the golden-red dragon robe was like a goddess to the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. Countless human cultivators looked up to the sky, their hearts aze with a fiery will to fight, charging into the Ancestral Temple!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Above the vast sky, nine gigantic thunderous arms stretching almost a thousand meters long appeared! Like hands covering the sky, they mmed onto the ground of the Ancestral Temple. Thousands of blood-colored electric currents, like tidal waves, ravaged thend,kes, and rivers of the Ancestral Temple, obliterating groups of demons wherever they went!

    Such was the destructive power of a topbatant on the battlefield!

    The Empress is invincible! The brains of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army were on fire. And those disorganized demons, seeing such a terrifying figure in the dragon robe, were filled with fear. Even the fiercest demons held a deep awe for truly terrifying human warriors!

    "Where are our Demon Emperors?"

    "Three Demon Emperors, plus the Violet Emperor, quickly go and kill Divine Dawn!"

    The ordinary demons didnt know of the existence of the devils; in their eyes, it was a four against one situation. Even though the 20 million-strong human army had a huge advantage on the ground, the demons were confident in their topbatants!

    "Kill Divine Dawn, destroy the Heavenly Realm, upy the Divine Continent!" Millions of demons roared furiously, their red eyes zing with battle spirit. They eagerly looked towards the deepest part of the Ancestral Temple! Why hadn''t the Demon Emperors made a move yet?

    "We go first!" Burning Saint, Ape Saint, and the other 108 Demon Saints, seeing the Ancestral Temple losing ground, couldnt sit still.

    "Stick together in groups, dont get separated and broken," the Gu Emperor said grimly, staring intently at the distant figure in the thunder.

    "Understood!" the Ape Saint and others nodded.

    The power of the 108 Demon Saints surpassed that of the warriors from the five Immortal Empires. They had to break out and turn the tide for the millions of demon troops!

    If the battlefield was divided into Emperors, Saints, and soldier tiers, the Ancestral Temple''s demon soldiers were weak, but their Saints were strong!

    As for the Emperors, the human race, along with the devils, could counterbnce.

    "The decision is made!" the Gu Emperor dered. As he, Red Lotus, the Violet Emperor, and Moon Fairy gathered together, their eyes fixed on the distant figure in the dragon robe.

    "Three devils haven''t shown up yet!" Red Lotus frowned deeply.

    "We can''t let Divine Dawn be so arrogant anymore. It''s affecting our morale! I''ll go and kill her!" Moon Fairy''s gentle face suddenly transformed into a fierce fox-like visage.

    "You sure you can?" The Violet Emperor raised an eyebrow, not daring to confront Divine Dawn himself. After all, Divine Dawn had in Eternal Joy, and Moon Fairy had killed the Heavenly Hound. By rights, Moon Fairy was qualified to confront her!

    "Just keep an eye on the three devils!" Moon Fairy said coldly, transforming into a Three-Tailed Demon Fox.

    Like a white sh, it dashed through the ruins of the Ancestral Temple. Its agile and swift movement stirred up a storm of demonic energy, crashing towards the figure in the dragon robe above!

    "Moon Fairy!" Its entry into the battle ignited the demons war spirit, and countless demons who had just witnessed him ying the Heavenly Hound roared in fervor.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Three-Tailed Demon Fox leapt into the sky, shattering the thunderous vortex and pouncing on the figure in the dragon robe. The two, one human and one fox, shed amidst the thunder, indistinguishable in the chaos!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Their battle raged, crashing onto the ground outside the Ancestral Temple. Blood-red lightning, colorful mes, storms, and frost wreaked havoc around them. No one dared approach this deadly fray!

    "Cover for him." The Gu Emperor, Red Lotus, and Violet Emperor exchanged nces. To prevent the devil from suddenly ambushing Moon Fairy, they prepared to join in. If the devils didn''t appear, they would all attack the Divine Dawn Empress together.

    "Divine Dawn is the key enemy. If we kill her, the human army''s morale will copse!" the Violet Emperor sneered.

    Gu Emperor and Red Lotus, though silent, had eyes stained red with murderous intent.

    However, just as the three were about to join the battle, a blood dragon rose from the pools of blood and corpses, transforming into a tall, mysterious woman before them. Her hair ck as night, eyes red as blood, she exuded an overwhelming devilish aura! The moment she appeared, a devilish ck miasma swept across the battlefield, more violent than demonic energy.

    "War Princess!" The Gu Emperor, Red Lotus, and Violet Emperor all went cold, their brows furrowing.

    "Good morning, everyone," the War Princess greeted as shended on the ground. With one hand on her hip, she stood tall and self-assured, her demeanor strikingly at ease against the brutal backdrop of the battlefield.

    The Gu Emperor and Red Lotus exchanged a nce. They looked over to where Moon Fairy seemed to be holding his own for the moment, and felt a bit more settled.

    The Gu Emperor then seriously said, "War Princess, might there be some misunderstanding between us? Our demon race has always respected you immensely, never intending to be your adversary."

    "There''s no misunderstanding. From the beginning, I just wanted to annihte you all." The War Princess chuckled sweetly, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

    "Why? Even if you wanted three entire Immortal Empires, we could have negotiated," the Gu Emperor said, his brow creasing.

    "I want all of the Divine Continent, and there''s no room for negotiation," her voice turned icy.

    The Gu Emperor and Red Lotus'' faces darkened upon hearing this.

    The War Princess looked at them with disdain, scoffing. "I n to establish a human blood bank in this Divine Continent. What use do I have for a bunch of beasts like you? Competing with my race for human blood?"

    "But we''ve always considered you as friends..." Red Lotus''s eyes were bloodshot.

    "Friends? You really dare to tter yourselves, huh? Beasts will be beasts!" the War Princess sneered. After being insulted again, even the most patient of saints would reach their limit.

    The Gu Emperor and Red Lotus knew well that they had unwittingly let the wolf into their home. There was no other way but to fight to the death!

    The Gu Emperor''s face darkened, his voice turning sinister. "War Princess, your appetite seems a bit toorge. You know, even though the Demon Continent opened the gates to the Endless Netherworld, not many of your strong warriors can make it here."

    "Oh? You think you, a mere insect, can y devils? You know my prestigious status and n to capture me, threatening the entire Endless Netherworld, bargaining for your despicable demon race''s survival?" the War Princess sneered coldly.

    "You guessed right!" Gu Emperor dered, casting a nce at Violet Emperor.

    "This is the only path left to us," the Violet Emperor said, his face twisted with a sinister chill.

    The other two devils were absent!

    "She''s too confident. Let''s make this quick!" After the Gu Emperor muttered these words, the three Awakened Emperor Realm powerhouses didn''t hesitate to strike! When they moved, it was a cataclysmic assault capable of obliterating heavens and earth!

    <em>HUM! </em>A sea of green poison mist surged from the Gu Emperor. A true battlefield poison demon, his very presence was akin to a thousand armies. The green mist instantly enveloped the battlefield!

    In the midst of the poison, the Gu Emperor transformed into a green flesh worm, known as the Green Devil Gu. Its body was riddled with countless pores, oozing streams of green viscous liquid.

    From this green liquid emerged myriad bizarrely shaped gu insects, resembling wasps, some with wings, others with gigantic teeth! In an instant, there were millions of these grotesque insects, their menacing faces forming an endless sea of bugs, swarming towards the War Princess.

    Such a tactic, if unleashed not on a powerful warrior but on the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, would wreak catastrophic devastation! The Gu Emperor was not just a formidable foe but a strategic nightmare for the human race, a grave threat indeed!

    As the Gu Emperor continued to <em>birth</em> more gu insects, the War Princess became engulfed in a sea of bugs! On the other side, the Red Lotus Demon Emperor transformed into a seductive blood lotus. As she rooted herself into the ground, countless bloody vines stretched outwards, dyeing hundreds of meters around the War Princess in crimson.

    Simrly, tens of thousands of blood lotuses sprouted from the earth, like scarlet tentacles reaching for the War Princess. The tactics of these two Demon Emperors were distinctly different from the bird and beast demons. They were more sinister, killing invisibly and wreaking havoc on the battlefield!

    Meanwhile, the Violet Emperor was casting his own daoist spell. He conjured a violet storm phoenix with his hands, a majestic creature that soared through the heavens, stirring up a tempest, swirling towards the War Princess.

    "A bug, a nt, a blood ve, daring to sh with a devil?" the War Princess scoffed, bathed in a mist of blood. Her body surged with Mortal Dust Devil Blood, forming blood dragons that coiled around her. With a flick of her wrist, a blood-red, spiked whip materialized in her hand, its tip sharp as a spear.

    Facing the sea of insects, the sky of blood lotuses, and the violet storm phoenix, the War Princessughed coldly. Her Mortal Dust Devil Blood stirred, her figure draped in a captivating yet deadly crimson.

    <em>CRACK! </em>With her right hand wielding the whip and her left flinging out, she unleashed a Blood Sacrifice Dragon Breath.

    This blood art, powered by Mortal Dust Devil Blood, possessed a terrifyingly bloody power. A sea of demonic thoughts converged on the blood dragon, hurtling towards Gu Emperor''s true form.

    A being like the Gu Emperor, a strategic divine weapon, with millions of lethal insects, had an obvious weakness in its true form... a fact known to all. Yet, for most, this knowledge was useless. The Gu Emperor, of course, knew how to protect himself.

    Facing the Dragon Breath, the Gu Emperor''s gaze sharpened. Tens of thousands of green insects formed arger green dragon, biting into the Dragon Breath!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The shrill cry of insects dying rang out. Therger green dragon, despite its size, was incinerated and crumbled under the power of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood. Even the blood of the insects was burned awaypletely!

    "Is she really this strong?" the Gu Emperor''s face showed a flicker of surprise. He remembered being told that the War Princess of the Endless Netherworld was only in the Early Awakened Emperor Realm. How could she unleash such formidable power? Not only was itparable to the Late Awakened Emperor Realm, but she also possessed the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, a lethal force against insects and nts!

    "Red Lotus, Violet Emperor, help me!" the Gu Emperor called, not losing hisposure. He summoned more swarms of insects, part to attack the War Princess and part to continue protecting himself.

    The bright red blood lotus was equally horrified by the War Princess''s terrifying power and opted for an offensive defense! Around the War Princess''s feet, countless bloody vines and lotuses, emitting a fog of blood, lunged at her!

    Red Lotus'' power, the bane of flesh and blood, was fundamentally vampiric, much like the War Princess herself. Usually, these sharp, blood-poisoned vines and lotuses, upon prating a living body, could rapidly drain people and beasts dry.

    "ying with blood in front of the Mortal Dust Devil?" The War Princess chuckled coldly, fully embracing her new identity. She found that life was quite enjoyable, as long as she wasn''t around Yun Xiao!

    <em>CRACK! </em>With a flick of her whip, the blood fangs swept through, striking the blood lotuses in the air around her. Where the Mortal Dust Devil Blood touched, the blood lotuses burned as if meeting their ancestor. With one whip, they were all annihted!

    This was the suppression of bloodlines!

    Compared to the Gu Emperor, Red Lotus feared the power of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood even more.

    And so, Red Lotus'' offensive defense was effortlessly dissolved by a single whip of the War Princess, while the Dragon Breath continued to fly towards the true form of the Gu Emperor!

    The Gu Emperor could only frown and retreat, burrowing into the ground while summoning more swarms of insects to counter the Dragon Breath.

    "Violet Emperor! It''s your turn to block!" the Gu Emperor shouted to the figure in violet robes beside him, already contemting retreat. ording to his initial cautious n, it was still feasible for them and the 108 Demon Saints to retreat now!

    "Alright!" The Violet Emperor stood right behind the Gu Emperor''s true form. He red at the War Princess, but then, with a cunning smile, he saw his opportunity amidst the chaos engulfing the Ancestral Temple. Especially in the battlefield of the Emperors, filled with gu insects, blood lotuses, and a fog of blood, imprable to outsiders.

    The Violet Emperor''s expression suddenly turned sinister. "Die!" he eximed, controlling the violet storm phoenix that was dangerously close, and unleashed it onto the Gu Emperor''s true form!

    The chaotic storm force, with its thousands of wind des sharp as swords, shredded the Gu Emperor''s fleshly body, instantly whipping up a storm of green blood and flesh.

    The Gu Emperor, busy countering the War Princess''s blood arts, had never expected the storm phoenix to turn against him! "Violet Emperor, you!!!" In that moment, his soul shook violently, staring in disbelief at the sneering Violet Emperor, his mind a sea of blood-red chaos!

 Chapter 230: Treachery Exposed!

    Chapter 230: Treachery Exposed!

    Startled! Speechless! Shattered! The Gu Emperor had no time to question! As his true form was ravaged by the violet storm phoenix, his sea of insects plunged into chaos. The Dragon Breath roared in, opening its maw to swallow the Gu Emperor''s flesh and blood whole!

    "AGHH" The Green Gu Worm let out a piercing and desperate scream! Under the engulfment of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, his body turned from red to ck, his flesh and essence lost in an instant! What was once a fleshy worm became a dried corpse in the blink of an eye!

    "Haha, that old venomous worm is finally dead!" The Violet Emperor''s heart pounded wildly with excitement. He had struck a significant blow from behind! Another Demon Emperor had fallen!

    The War Princess was strong to begin with, and with his sneak attack, even the Gu Emperor, with his sky-reaching abilities, couldn''t escape this fate!

    "Violet Emperor!!" Red Lotus'' piercing, sorrowful cry trembled over the blood-red lotuses, "Why..."

    "Don''t waste words on her!" The War Princess looked at the Violet Emperor, smiling, "You were decisive. I''ll remember your service."

    "Yes! I am devoted to serving the War Princess! I would die a thousand deaths for My Lady!" The Violet Emperor''s face flushed red, his cold gaze shifting to Red Lotus, "I will assist My Lady in killing Red Lotus now!"

    "No need!" The War Princess sneered, "This thing ying bloodsucking games with me is just seeking death. I can wipe her out with a flick of my hand. You better hurry to Forbidden Fate at full speed. While he doesn''t know you''re the mole, tell him that the three Demon Emperors, 108 Demon Saints, and the millions of demons, all perished in battle outside the Ancestral Temple! Lure him into the trap faster! You must be quick, or your identity will be exposed!"

    The Violet Emperor paused. "My Lady, if all the demons here die, will Forbidden Fate still enter the fray?"

    "By asking this, you show you don''t understand demons! At their core, they are still easily angered beasts. Only this venomous insect has been enduring from the start! Once they hear of the Ancestral Temple''s demise, the demon army outside will be driven by hatred, unstoppable! Even Forbidden Fate won''t be able to hold back such vengeance!" the War Princess said coldly.

    "Absolutely!" The Violet Emperor thought it over carefully. Using his speed and ying the mole onest time was all he needed. Sess or failure, it wasn''t his responsibility.

    "Remember! If he enters the fray, lead the ten million-strong Violet Sky Immortal Army alongside. Once he steps in, Divine Dawn will activate the gates of the Heavenly Realm and the Primordial Array. Then, you, I, and Divine Dawn will strike from three sides, eradicating the demons!" the War Princess dered fiercely.

    "Understood!" The Violet Emperor''s eyes zed with determination. First, y the mighty demons, then extinguish the Divine Dawn Empress. After that, in the Divine and Demon Continents, he would reign supreme, nourishing himself on their blood!

    "Please, My Lady, make sure to stop Red Lotus and Moon Fairy, or I''ll be in danger."

    "Nonsense! I''ll y these two demons right away! Hurry up!" the War Princess urged.

    With a buzz, the Violet Emperor, without a second word and wielding the power of a supreme emperor, moved faster than any messenger. Moreover, in the chaos of the battlefield, with blood and fury filling the air, nobody but Red Lotus noticed the details of his involvement in the Gu Emperor''s demise.

    While conversing with the Violet Emperor, the War Princess was far from idle! Her blood-toothed whip pierced through the void, wrapping around Red Lotus''rgest blood lotus!

    "You''re ruthless, War Princess!" Red Lotus, entwined in countless vines and lotuses, sought to burrow underground, seeking escape and to spread this fatal news. But the War Princess'' Mortal Dust Devil Bloodpletely ensnared her!

    "This is the essence of a devil!" The War Princess sneered coldly, dragged underground by the lotus!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The devil and the lotus kicked up dirt and dust, crashing towards the outside of the Ancestral Temple!

    "Where do you think you''re escaping to?" The War Princess, along with her whip, suddenly appeared on thergest blood lotus. Her Mortal Dust Devil Blood formed a colossal blood fog, entwining around the lotus!

    <em>STAB STAB STAB! </em>The lotus'' spikes pierced into the War Princess'' thighs, her fair legs bleeding profusely!

    "Die!" Red Lotus attempted to drain her devil blood. Yet, the moment she absorbed some of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, the lotus burst into mes.

    Red Lotus screamed in agony, as if poisoned.

    "Hahaha, I told you before, when ites to bloodsucking, I am your ancestor! And you try this trick on me?" The War Princess sneered. Her Mortal Dust Blood Cmity surged, drawing the myriad streams of blood from Red Lotus'' blood lotus, greedily absorbing them into her own body.

    Triggering the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, the War Princess absorbed the blood of the lotus into her heart!

    Even though the Red Lotus Demon Emperor was a nt, her blood was a mix of human and demon blood, revealing her true nature as a supreme demon that feasted on countless lives. Deceptive in her gentle, unassuming facade, she was a predator in disguise. And now, the blood-drinker was being drained.

    This was the karmic retribution Yun Xiao sought. The calcting Gu Emperor met his end in a web of calctions. The blood-sucking lotus, too, was doomed to die by her own method.

    "No!" As Red Lotus blood frantically rushed towards the War Princess, her heart shattered in despair! In the face of the Mortal Dust Devil, she was nothing but prey on a tter.

    "Forbidden Fate! Moon Fairy! Divine Dawn!" The Red Lotus frantically burrowed underground her cries echoing with desperation. Dragging along an inescapable vampire, she tunneled towards a direction etched in her memory. This was herst stand, all for the demon race.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The withered blood lotus finally burst through the ground into andscape of ruins, entwined in crimson lightning. Looking ahead, the lotus saw a three-tailed fox and a figure in dragon robes locked in fierce battle, alone in their struggle.

    "Moon Fairy! Violet Emperor is a traitor! Flee and warn Forbidden Fate!" With blood and tears, Red Lotus called out with itsst ounce of strength to the Three-Tailed Demon Fox.

    "I see." Moon Fairy ceasedbat, casting a cold nce at the blood-sucking lotus.

    "Divine Dawn!" Before thest of her lifeblood was drained, Red Lotus, in a final flicker of consciousness, turned to the figure wrapped in blood lightning. "After the demons, the devils and Violet Emperor wille for you!"

    "Thank you for the warning. I would have been in the dark otherwise." Suddenly, a male voice emerged from the figure in dragon robes.

    "..." Red Lotus paused, shocked. Then, she saw the blood lightning disperse from the figure, revealing not Divine Dawn, but a young man, poised and strikingly handsome. He was Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao and the Three-Tailed Demon Fox stood together, their voices merging into one, "Rest in peace. The Violet Emperor is next."

    "Uh..." Red Lotus, dazed, listened as they spoke in unison. Countless storms swept through her heart in these final moments before death, filling it with boundless fear.

    "Red Lotus, with the several millennia-old grudge of humanity against you, how do you think the Demon Continent should repay?" Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy asked together.

    But Red Lotus'' soul dimmedpletely, unable to utter another word.

    <em>BANG! </em>The War Princess tossed the corpse of the Gu Emperor before Moon Fairy, then turned to Yun Xiao, "We''re short on time."

    "Do you need to state the obvious?" As Yun Xiao spoke, Moon Fairy, without a word, scooped up the Gu Emperor''s body and soared into the sky, pursuing the Violet Emperor.

    Left behind were only Yun Xiao and the War Princess.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze fell on her bloodstained legs, "You did well today."

    "Yes." The War Princess bowed her head.

    "There will be a reward tonight."

    "Ah?" Her heart raced, her delicate body blushing from face to foot, instantly flushed with a rosy hue. At that moment, she was a natural beauty. The redder, the more tempting; especially her cheeks, which were flushed through.

    Yun Xiao stared speechless, then cursed to himself. "Damn these racial traits!"

    Outside the Heavenly Realm, in the skies, amidst a sea of demonic clouds, the 100 million-strong demon army remained unaware of the news. The battle at the Ancestral Temple, the deaths of the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus, were Yun Xiao''s first sessful steps as the war began.

    The Violet Emperor, swift as ever, arrived at the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor''s side almost simultaneously with the Gu Emperor''s designated messenger. Just as the messenger reported the assault on the Ancestral Temple by the Divine Dawn Empress, the Violet Emperor arrived with dire news.

    The Gu Emperor, Red Lotus, and Moon Fairy were all dead! The 108 Demon Saints were annihted too! They had been double-crossed by the devils! The War Princess, with her Late Awakened Emperor Realm strength, together with the Divine Dawn Empress, swept through the battlefield!

    When this terrible news spread among the 100 million-strong demon army, their ck ranks turned a bloody red. This was because the eyes of countless demons had turned crimson with rage.

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!!" They fell into their primal instincts. Before Forbidden Fate could even issue amand, they were uncontrobly fixated on the entrance to the Heavenly Realm, ready to plunge in.

    "Forbidden Fate, we can''t act rashly now! Rushing in at this moment will y right into their hands. If we''re caught in a pincer attack, our losses will be catastrophic! Those devils are too powerful; we''re no match for them!" The Violet Emperor cunningly instigated in the opposite direction. As expected, his words sent the demons into a frenzy.

    "Get out of the way!"

    "It''s because of cowards like you that so many of our kin in the Demon Continent have perished! A fair fight would never have led to such losses!"

    "Did our great armye here just to watch our brethren die?!"

    Hearing this, the Violet Emperor sighed heavily, looking towards Forbidden Fate with a somber voice, "You know the might of those devils better than anyone. With them around, we''re all doomed! The Gu Emperor, Red Lotus, and Moon Fairy, they all died horribly. And the Demon Saints... their souls are captured, likely never to find peace..."

    <em>BOOM! </em>Each demon felt as if they had been punched in the heart, their violent thoughts fully ignited by these provocative words.

    "Kill! Kill!!"

    "I refuse to believe that our 100 million-strong demon army can''t annihte the Heavenly Realm! What of the devils? Even the strongest will eventually fall!"

    "I, Forbidden Fate, am an immortal demon! Let our corpses build a graveyard of the Heavenly Realm in my name, avenging the souls of the Demon Continent!"

    "Kill!!!"

    Seeing the demons in their frenzied state, the Violet Emperor felt immense satisfaction. He knew that Forbidden Fate was actually an embodiment of the collective resentment of dead demons, absorbing everything. When the demon horde was angry, his rage was even more exaggerated.

    The Gu Emperor and Red Lotus were Forbidden Fate''s close friends. Forbidden Fate, having lived a life of solitude, regarded these two oldpanions as kin.

    "It''s settled!" Watching the 100 million-strong demon army uncontrobly advancing towards the Heavenly Realm like a tide of flesh and blood, the Violet Emperor chuckled inwardly.

    "Perfect, let them charge into the Primordial Array as cannon fodder! Grind down Divine Dawn''s forces as much as possible. When they''re nearly wiped out, I''ll join forces with the War Princess and reap the rewards like a fisherman after the fray!" The Violet Emperor had always been a cunning man, thriving in every situation. This time, he was particrly proud of his strategic positioning.

    Amidst the rampage of the demon horde, Forbidden Fate''s voice seemed unable to break through.

    The Violet Emperor was inwardly roaring withughter.

    "Kill! Keep killing!"

    The Violet Emperor nced over the 100 million-strong demon cloud. His Violet Sky troops, originally poised to descend and wreak havoc, hadn''t budged an inch, 10 million elites still lurking in the background!

    The 100 million-strong demon army waspletely consumed by hatred.

    The Violet Emperor''s heart was in a frenzy of celebration.

    Then, in this chaotic scene, suddenly, a figure with silver hair burst out from the Heavenly Realm, dragging a huge worm corpse. He appeared before the 100 million-strong demon army!

    "Moon Fairy isn''t dead?!" The seething rage of the demon army seemed to diminish at the sight.

    With Moon Fairy alive, there was still a future for the demon race!

    "Moon Fairy!?" The Violet Emperor shuddered, his smile freezing on his face.

    "Impossible, didn''t the War Princess take care of him?" His face turned ashen. Turning around, he saw Moon Fairy indeed alive and well!

    The fox, with eyes red as blood and filled with towering rage, stepped towards the demon army, holding the Gu Emperor''s body aloft. "Let''sy the Gu Emperor to rest!" With that, he burst into tears.

    From the midst of the demon army, a hand strewn with corpses reached out, tremblingly taking the Gu Emperor''s body. On Forbidden Fate''s mountain of corpses and sea of blood, countless dead eyes wept blood tears, mouths wailing in unison.

    "Violet Emperor!" Moon Fairy howled in anguish, then turned his furious gaze to the stunned Violet Emperor. "He betrayed us! He and the War Princess conspired to kill the Gu Emperor! Red Lotus told me with her dying breath! The Gu Emperor''s body still bears the remnants of his violet storm phoenix sorcery. Sadly, I couldn''t bring back Red Lotus'' body..."

    <em>BOOM! </em>The demon army exploded in fury! They all turned to the corpse of the Gu Emperor, where the remnants of the violet storm phoenix magic were unmistakably evident!

    Most of the wounds on the body were clearly inflicted by the Violet Emperor...

    "AHHH!" Cries rose from the mountain of flesh and blood. These were not the sounds of Forbidden Fate. He was a corpse demon, a fusion of the wills of countless lost souls, emotions overwhelming his intellect. Such obvious traces of betrayal! The fates of the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus transformed his grief into fury! A wrath that would tear the heavens!

    "Violet Emperor!" Moon Fairy''s eyes brimming with bloody tears, he red at the pale-faced sovereign of the Violet Sky Immortal Empire. "You were ordered to lead the Violet Sky Immortal Army to lower realms of the Divine Continent to ughter mortals. Where is your army now? How many have you killed? Did you craft the tale of my death to enrage our demon army, hoping to push us into the Heavenly Realm so your Violet Sky Immortal Army, alongside Divine Dawn and the devils, could trap us and cut off our retreat?!"

    The Violet Emperor, wide-eyed and gaping, trembled, unable to utter a word.

    "Can''t answer, can you?!" Moon Fairy turned fiercely to the demon army, shouting, "If I''m right, your Violet Sky Immortal Army never descended to the lower realms! They''re hiding right behind us, ready to deliver a fatal blow, aren''t they?!"

    At Moon Fairy''s words, the enraged demons suddenly spun around, their gaze piercing the swirling mists of the void.

    "NOOO!" The Violet Emperor''s face twisted, his eyes tearing, he screamed in despair.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The demon army roared like thunder, like countless frenzied demons, charging towards their rear<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 231: Sun Sets on the Violet Sky

    Chapter 231: Sun Sets on the Violet Sky

    Deep in the sea of clouds, over a thousand Violet Sky warships, cloaked in magic,y hidden in this expanse. Looking down from the ships, the Heavenly Realm not far away shimmered with golden light, like a precious gem on the Divine Continent. This was the finest spot in the human-upied territory of the Divine Continent, the sole Immortal capital of the ancient Immortal Empire.

    "We, the Violet Sky, pride ourselves as the number one Immortal Empire of the Divine Continent. Yet, weck the Heavenly Realm as our capital city, a true pity," the Prime Minister of Violet Sky, Wei Feng, mused, stroking his long beard in solemn contemtion.

    "Wherever the Violet Sky Immortal Army sets foot, it bes ournd! Now that the Demon Continent has fallen, even if they seize the Heavenly Realm, they''ll have no stronghold left in the future. One day, both the Demon and Divine Continents will bow to the Violet Sky! His Majesty, biding his time, will surely reap the rewards of his grand strategy," Supreme Marshal Du Ding dered, standing amidst the clouds, gazing at the vast world, his spirit soaring.

    "The only regret is that our Violet Sky princes and princesses are almost all gone..." Wei Feng said with a touch of awkwardness. From the Crown Prince to the Seventh Princess, they were all dead!

    "Only the Fourth Princess remains, her talents rivaling the Crown Prince. She could one day govern our Violet Sky," Du Ding remarked, turning to Wei Feng. "She''s at the Ancestral Temple, right?"

    "Yes! She has made tremendous progress thesest few days," Wei Feng said, feeling nostalgic.

    "That''s good! With His Majesty''s masterful nning, we, the Violet Sky, will rise to fortune andughst. Even if we bear infamy for a while, what does a true man care?"Du Dingughed loudly.

    "True indeed," Wei Feng agreed, stroking his beard and nodding with a smile.

    The two leading officials of Violet Sky, standing at the forefront of the army, gripping the railings of the ship, exuded an aura so vast it seemed to swallow the world.

    "Huh?" Wei Feng looked up, noticing the clouds ahead turning dark, as if ink had spilled into the sky, dyeing their entire world ck.

    "A storm brewing over the Heavenly Realm?" Du Ding chuckled coldly. "A storm would be good. It''ll wash away the blood and corpses, giving the world a fresh start."

    "Yes..." Wei Feng nodded reflexively, his expression growing increasingly nk. "But why does this dark cloud seem to be heading our way?"

    "Hmm?" Du Ding paused, then waved his hand. "Scout unit, move forward!"

    About a hundred Violet Sky cultivators, harnessing the power of wind and thunder, advanced swiftly, soon disappearing into the dark clouds. The cloud, growingrger, resembled a colossal beast of the sky, its gaping maw wide open, looming towards the thousand warships.

    "Miasma?!" Wei Feng shuddered, turning to Du Ding. "This is the Demon Continent''s demon army! What''s going on? Are they fleeing?"

    "It doesn''t seem like they''re fleeing," Du Ding felt a chill in his heart. "No worries! I''ll ask Forbidden Fate, see what''s going on."

    "Something''s off..." Wei Feng frowned deeply.

    As he spoke, Du Ding conjured a violet storm and surged towards the demon army.

    "All units, be on alert! Watch out for what''s chasing the Demon Continent''s army!" Du Ding dered.

    The 10 million-strong Violet Sky army,posed of elite cultivators and self-proimed as the finest force in the Divine Continent, indeed possessed formidable strength, their tactical formations rivaling the Nine Heavens Immortal Army.

    Their reaction was swift! Yet, their focus wasn''t on the demon army, but rather, they were curious about what was chasing this massive force.

    "Prepare to cover and retreat with our demon brethren!" Wei Feng, still cautious, felt his heart pounding. Why would the demon army retreat? The countless Violet Sky cultivators were perplexed.

    Before long, the ck demon cloud had almost arrived! Within the cloud, countless demons in their true forms, grotesque and with blood-red eyes, driven by towering rage, roared and howled, seemingly devoid of all reason.

    The hatred of the 100 million demons were now fixated on the Violet Sky Immortal Army!

    In an instant, a lethal shadow, like countless swords, hovered over the heads of the Violet Sky cultivators!

    "What''s happening?" The Violet Sky Immortal Army soldiers stood dumbfounded, frozen like statues.

    "Greetings to the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor..." As Du Ding stepped forward to pay his respects, suddenly, a gigantic ck w burst from the demon cloud, smacking him squarely on the forehead!

    "Ah?" Du Ding''s vision went dark as his robust body was seized and squashed into a lump of flesh!

    "AH???"The entire Violet Sky Immortal Army stood rooted to the spot, eyes bulging in disbelief. A deadly chill ran from their feet to the crowns of their heads.

    "Form up!! Prepare for battle!!!" Wei Feng felt his heart might burst. Trembling all over, he quickly rallied the army from their stupor.

    "The Demon Continent''s demon army is attacking us!"

    Only then did the incredible reality sink in, like a sword piercing the hearts of the Violet Sky Immortal Army.

    "Why? Why is this happening?" They couldn''t fathom it. They were like brothers, yet before even attacking the Heavenly Realm, they turned on their brethren! Even if they were mere pawns, they shouldn''t start by ughtering their own It was utter bewilderment,plete confusion!

    "Why such hatred?!" Wei Feng''s mind was tearing apart. In his logic, even if there were conflicts, negotiation and concessions were the way, not a deathly battle from the get-go!

    Violet Sky had be the sworn enemies of the Demon Continent! But why? War never offers exnations!

    As they grappled with their shock and confusion, the sky-darkening demon army unleashed their rage and deep-seated grudge, born from the deaths of the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus, the two great Demon Emperors, upon the ten million Violet Sky soldiers!

    The Violet Sky forces were indeed lurking behind the demon army! What did this mean? It meant just as Moon Fairy had said, they were poised to stab them in the back! This sort of treachery was more loathsome than any enemy!

    The 100 million wrath-driven demons, their eyes blood-red with only one thoughtkill!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Like a ck torrent from the heavens, these flesh-and-blood demons crashed into the thousand warships.

    In an instant, the warships shattered, the Violet Sky Immortal Army caught off guard. Countless soldiers had their arms, heads, torsos, and legs torn apart. Their organs were devoured, and their intestines hung from the mouths of the marauding demons!

    "No! No!" Wei Feng, tears streaming, heart bleeding, rushed towards the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor, wailing, "Why? We served the Demon Continent! Why does it seek to destroy Violet Sky! Why?!!!"

    <em>SPLAT! </em>Another w from the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor! Formed of countless corpses, the w struck Wei Feng''s head, turning it into a mist of blood. His body, torn apart by dozens of ck-furred monkey demons, was left in tatters, blood spilling all around.

    The demons were brutal and fierce, especially when driven by emotion! In this moment, the long-suppressed rage burst forth like a breached dam, unstoppable in the onught of battle!

    Seeing Du Ding and Wei Feng, two prominent Violet Sky officials, annihted without a word from the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor, the remaining Violet Sky forces lost any thought of ceasefire.

    And so, the dozens of remaining Violet Sky generals issued outmands.

    "Violet Sky Immortal Army, form up for a fight to the death!"

    "Chaos brings death! Fight to live!"

    Indeed, the Violet Sky Immortal Empire had its mettle to shine in the Divine Continent!

    The 10 million Violet Sky soldiers, despite the initial shock, organized and resisted valiantly when cornered with no escape.

    "Hold on, wait for His Majesty!"

    "His Majesty will give us an answer! He will stop the demons!"

    In this chaos, the Violet Emperor became the sole hope of the Violet Sky Immortal Army.

    "Form up!"

    "Don''t let the demons close in!"

    "Prepare the magic! Fire!"

    "Deploy the magic treasures for defense!"

    "Stay calm!"

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>The sounds of daoist spells and magic weapons bombarding demon flesh thundered across the heavens! From a distance, the thick dark cloud collided with the violet mist, bursting into a spectrum of dazzling lights!

    Then, countless screams and roars deafened their ears, as severed limbs and corpses rained from the sky, showering the lower realms of the Divine Continent with a rain of blood and flesh!

    The heavens themselves were stained red with blood!

    Even themon folk on the Divine Continent could see the crimson sky!

    In their own fields, they found chunks of flesh smashed to pulp, hardly a single body left intact!

    It was unspeakable brutality!

    "Violet Sky! Violet Sky! Violet Sky!!" The cultivators in violet armor, drenched in blood, cried out this name that haunted their souls, their blood and tears mingling.

    Those who had long fraternized with demons were now experiencing firsthand the savagery and brutality of their so-called allies, stepping in to bear the Divine Continent''s long-suffered humiliation and deep-seated hatred. This moment linked them, high and mighty as they were, to the blood and fire of generations past!

    As this sudden, fierce battle painted the sky red, the reasons for war no longer mattered. On the battlefield, liveshuman or demonwere no longer their own. Individual spirits ceased to exist, both human and demon driven by hearts pounding solely to fill a bottomless pit of bloodshed.

    In wars of this scale, exceeding millions, even the mightiest Emperors in the Heavenly Realm had limited influence over the oue. This was precisely why the Violet Emperor had survived in the Ancestral Temple.

    For Yun Xiao, this battle of fates wasn''t defined by the Demon Emperors or Demon Saints, but by the 10 million-strong Violet Sky Immortal Army and the 100 million-strong demon army. Their potential for destruction was immeasurable!

    And so, the Divine Dawn Empress knew well that even if she annihted the Demon Emperors and gained the upper hand, permanently subduing the Demon Continent was a colossal task. Whether it be the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, the Heavenly Realm''s cultivators, or the coteral damage to the people of the Divine Continent, countless lives would be lost.

    In this world, what war did not cost lives? This wasn''t a skirmish of thousands, but a genocidal war of tens of billions!

    Even if a third of the Demon Continent were destroyed, with over 30 million hastily assembled demons, the killing power of the 100 million-strong demon army was unimaginable. Only the Primordial Array could dismantle theirbined strength and deter them.

    Now, Yun Xiao, by making use of the War Princess and Moon Fairy, stripped bare the true nature of the Violet Emperor, sparking this bloody and brutal war! Compared to ying the four great Demon Emperors, this was the real decisive blow to resolve the crisis of the human race in the Divine Continent!

    The Violet Sky Immortal Army, in truth, was even stronger than the millions of demons in the Ancestral Temple! Moreover, Yun Xiao sought not just the extinction of the treacherous, but also massive losses for the Demon Continent''s demon army, ensuring mutual destruction.

    As the two armies dyed the sky red, his scheme was dered a sess! From then on, there was no turning back from the ughter, the seeds of hatred deeply sown.

    In the meantime, spectators could just enjoy the show!

    Explosions thundered through the heavens. Wails of anguish echoed across the Divine Continent. Dazzling spells and demonic ws crisscrossed in the sky!

    On this day, the only admirable thing about the Violet Sky Immortal Army was their stand in the face of despair, seeking a path to survival, fighting a fair battle against their most revered allies from the Demon Continent. Though they perished, at least they took an equal number with them!

    "Violet Sky..." One after another, whispering this shameful name, finally closed their eyes in dim resignation. Why were they attacked? The dead had no need to know!

    And this fierce upheaval had pushed the battle between humans and demons to a point of no return.

    "Violet Sky!!" In the distant sky, a middle-aged man in a violet dragon robe, his eyes tearing apart, wept blood! In his eyes, the sky above had be a sea of Violet Sky''s blood.

    "AGGHHHH!" Those broken bodies of the Violet Sky Immortal Army, each pair of dim eyes, each drop of blood spilling to the lower realms, were like three giant swords, piercing the Violet Emperor''s heart again and again!

    Tears of blood blurred his face. He opened his mouth, spewing ck blood. "My Violet Sky..." A once-great Emperor, now stood foolishly in the wind, trembling, whimpering softly, his very veins as if sliced by countless tiny des, heartbroken.

    "Why? Why A single misstep, and all is lost..." The Violet Emperor sobbed, lost in bewilderment.

    In just half a day, from the return of Moon Fairy to the Ancestral Temple, the ying of the Eclipse Demon Emperor, a crimson web of fate had ensnared him. His mind was clouded with blood, yet he couldn''t fathom where he went wrong.

    The War Princess was the princess of the Endless Netherworld! Her feigned alliance with the Divine Dawn Empress, plotting for the human blood reserves of the Divine Continent, loathing the demons as nuisances... wasn''t it all logical? It all made sense! Then where did it all fall apart?

    "It must be that Moon Fairy was more formidable than I thought. Even the War Princess, with all her might, couldn''t stop him! Violet Sky was exposed too soon and so met with disaster..." The Violet Emperor, once confident in his strategies, was now lost in a quagmire of confusion.

    "Here''s a word for you." A silver-haired, eerie-looking youth appeared before the Violet Emperor, speaking coldly, "Heaven''s wrath may be forgiven, but self-inflicted miseries cannot be undone."

    "Moon Fairy!!" Rage flooded the Violet Emperor''s eyes as he faced the young demon who ruined everything.

    "I am here under Forbidden Fate''s orders to take your head in tribute to the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus," Moon Fairy said with a cold smile.

    "Just you?!" The Violet Emperor scoffed disdainfully, casting a contemptuous nce. In the next instant, he conjured a violent violet storm and fled in panic! As fast as he could muster!

    "Heh, in this vast world, all its characters, all are my stage. Where can you flee to?" Moon Fairy, with a chilling smile, transformed into a Three-Tailed Demon Fox, racing across the white clouds, pursuing the violet storm!

 Chapter 232: One Sword Piercing Through!

    Chapter 232: One Sword Piercing Through!

    "Quick! Quick!" The Violet Emperor, like a madman, fled in the most disgraceful flight of his life. "I''ve mastered the Storm Dao; I''m faster than him!" Thinking he had lost Moon Fairy, he finally let out a sigh of relief. Yet, the curses and screams of the Violet Sky Immortal Army still bled his heart.

    "No worries! No worries! Clinging to the War Princess''s coattails, I can rise again!" the Violet Emperor mumbled.

    Suddenly, two figures appeared ahead! The two who had been lying in wait. A peerlessly handsome youth in white, and a bewitching devilish beauty. Together, they presented a striking contrastpurity and sharpness in the youth in white, bloodshed and temptation in the devilish beauty, standing at two extremes.

    "War Princess!" The Violet Emperor''s heart pounded as he hastened forward, spotting Yun Xiao, his spirits soared, and he asked, "Have you captured Yun Xiao as a hostage? Excellent! Splendid!"

    The War Princess stood beside Yun Xiao, smiling serenely at the Violet Emperor.

    Yun Xiao remained expressionless.

    The Violet Emperor, with a look of sorrow, turned to the War Princess, "Why didn''t you stop Moon Fairy? Because of this, Violet Sky will suffer endlessly, losing tens of millions of lives that could have served the Endless Netherworld... War Princess, you must stand for Violet Sky!"

    At this moment, a Three-Tailed Demon Fox arrived, transforming into a silver-haired figure, also expressionless, staring at the Violet Emperor.

    "Moon Fairy! How dare you show yourself in front of the War Princess?!" the Violet Emperor sneered, quickly turning to the War Princess again, "My Lady, capturing this pair, we can control the Demon Continent and Heavenly Realm! Victory is ours!"

    The War Princess just smiled enigmatically, sending chills down Violet Emperor''s spine.

    "My My Lady?" Suddenly, Yun Xiao pulled the War Princess close, draping his arm around her waist, pulling her against him, and smiled at the Violet Emperor, "My ve, you mean?"

    "Hmph." The War Princess, tall and regal, nestled into Yun Xiao''s embrace, her cheeks flushed, "At yourmand, Master."

    "Massage my shoulders," Yun Xiao said.

    "Yes, Master." The War Princess moved behind him, her hands gently working his shoulders, her presence an envy to all.

    The Violet Emperor watched, his eyes splitting with rage, his life''s principles, faith, and confidence all torn apart, trampled under Yun Xiao''s feet. Not a single word could describe the bomb that just dropped inside his heart at that moment!

    War Princess, a docile ve, her master Her obedience, shyness, andpliance, juxtaposed with the icy suppression she exerted over the Violet Emperor back in the Ancestral Temple, formed a chasm as vast as heaven and earth.

    "UGH" The Violet Emperor choked. The War Princess belonged to Yun Xiao, and Yun Xiao belonged to the Heavenly Realm! This meant that the demise of the 10 million Violet Sky Immortal Army soldiers was all because he had leapt into a lethal pit dug by the enemy.

    Realizing this, Violet Emperor staggered back three steps, staring nkly at Yun Xiao. He vomited three mouthfuls of ck blood mixed with fragments of his organs. His insides were torn apart by fury. Such a fatal blow could destroy everything a person had.

    Yun Xiao, meanwhile, enjoyed a beauty''s massage while arching an eyebrow at the Violet Emperor, coldly smiling. "I have a saying for you, Violet Emperor."

    Yun Xiao''s gaze shifted past the agonized man to Moon Fairy. Then, he slowly said, "Heaven''s wrath can be forgiven, self-inflicted miseries cannot."

    <em>BOOM! </em>Violet Emperor''s brain and heart were again struck as if by thousands of thunderbolts! Again and again, his face turned deathly pale, his body trembling as he turned around, facing Moon Fairy as if in a nightmare.

    And Moon Fairy, that devilish figure, also raised an eyebrow, mockingly looking at Violet Emperor... a look he had just seen on Yun Xiao.

    "Uh..." The Violet Emperor reeled back in shock. Yun Xiao, Moon Fairy, and the War Princess... Scenes from the first incident at the Spirit Treasure Pce with the death of Eternal Joy''s son to now echoed in the Violet Emperor''s mind.

    "BLERGH!" The Violet Emperor couldn''t hold it in, vomiting another mouthful of blood. He didn''t even have the strength to spit it out; the ck blood trickled down his chin, coldly flowing over his body.

    "Ah, ahhh! AGHHHHH!" The once mighty Emperor, now broken, his heart shattered into pieces, wept bitterly before Yun Xiao.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The War Princess'' whip coiled around him, with the power of Mortal Dust Devil Blood, binding the Violet Emperor. He was so heartbroken he couldn''t muster the courage to resist. Not that it would have mattered; resistance was futile.

    Yun Xiao appeared before him. He held an azure Sword Soul in his hand, his gaze calm yet indifferent, as he looked at the man unraveling before him. Let me ask you onest time, in this age-old war of hatred between humans and demons, who do you think will have thestugh? He gazed deep into the Violet Emperor''s eyes.

    The Violet Emperor''s eyes were streaming with blood and tears. He shook his head at Yun Xiao, weeping, but unable to utter a single word.

    The reason I ask is that youve always stood from the human''s perspective, yet chose to be apdog, seeking only personal glory and riches! I cant understand people like you. So, I want to know, now that Violet Sky is out of the game, do you still have any objectivity left in you? Yun Xiao asked coldly.

    Heh heh heh Violet Emperor suddenly startedughing through his tears, I dont want to say anymore. Let fate decide.

    Alright. Though he didnt answer, Yun Xiao already knew his response. If, before you die, you could let go of all your grudges and wish the human race well, I might let you die a bit morefortably."

    Forget it, I dont deserve it. The Violet Emperor lowered his head, his body covered in blood.

    Yun Xiao gave him a deep look. History may be written by the victors, but under the earnest hearts of humanity, justice will always prevail! Born a human, yet you acted shamelessly, your human skin, a disgrace to your ancestors and the people.

    With that, Yun Xiao, his face cold, drew his sword. Starting from his forehead, he sliced down, peeling off Violet Emperors entire skin.

    The Violet Emperors screams shook the heavens and earth.

    Moon Fairy remained expressionless, while the War Princess quickly turned away, unable to watch the scene. She closed her eyes, hershes still fluttering with fear and awe for this young man. He was certainly no saint!

    With a series of shes, Yun Xiao severed the Violet Emperor''s head and limbs. From that moment, the Violet Emperor was dead. First in heart, then in body.

    "Can I ask you something, Brother?" Blue Star whispered in his embrace.

    "Go ahead," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Are you still confused?" Blue Star asked.

    "About what?"

    "About remaking the Creator Immortal." Blue Star chuckled softly.

    Yun Xiao paused, then, ncing at the fallen Violet Emperor, gritted his teeth. "Confused? Hell no! This world''s full of scoundrels. Who else will take them down if not me? Forget the rules, I''ll gain unstoppable power first! Once I''m strong, I''ll make the rules. Even if I don''t have to change the world, I won''t live another moment in frustration. Having been reborn, I refuse to endure any more suffocation!"

    The departure of the Divine Dawn Empress, the demise of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor''s incarnation of transcending cmity, indeed left Yun Xiao, a mere mortal, somewhat perplexed about himself.

    "So, you''ll be the Creator Immortal?" Red Moon teased.

    "Of course! Anyone who opposes me will die!" Yun Xiao''s eyes burned fiercely.

    "Brother, the path you''re on is soaked in blood, to ascend the clouds with a breath of defiance. It''s normal to sometimes question your existence. But remember" Blue Star spoke solemnly. "Never let go of that breath of grievance you suffered at the hands of Ye Guying! It''s your challenge against all injustice and tyranny in the world! This world isn''t as kind as you think. Not even the Primordial Immortal Ancestor can sway the grand scheme of things! In this cosmic realm, there''s only one true creator, and that''s you! Only you are worthy to decide how this universe operates. Those who seek power against the tide, whoever they are, must pay the price!"

    Yun Xiao closed his eyes, recalling that day in the Cloud Nation''s imperial capital. Every time he thought of it, he seethed with anger! "Damn it! I''ll y them! I''ll y all injustice! Exterminate every scoundrel andpdog!"

    That fiery resolve still zed within! Like a scorching sun, it burned in Yun Xiao''s heart, keeping his mind constantly ame. "In this world, there''s no such thing as absolute right. I''m just a human, and I can only do what feels right to me, what has meaning to me!

    "I am the foundation of everything!" Yun Xiao chose to harbor this fiery breath in his chest, to seek justice for the several thousand-year-old human lineage of the Divine Continent!

    With a whoosh of inner fire, he tossed the skinless head of Violet Emperor to Moon Fairy, then gathered the limbs forter use.

    The Violet Emperor''s torso plummeted from the sky, crashing into a mortal city, sttering into a bloody mess. His body of sin forever sunk into the homnd and soil opened by his ancestors. Man and homnd merged into one.

    Having settled all this, Yun Xiao looked towards the crimson battlefield. "The Violet Sky Immortal Army is doomed! One-third of that 100 million-strong demon army was hastily assembled. Facing the desperate breakout of Violet Sky''s elite, at least 15 million will die, another 20 million injured!"

    It was a war of hundreds of millions of lives.

    "Next move, any strategies?" War Princess, back to her proud and cold demeanor, asked, looking up behind him.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze was icy. "None. I''ve tried, but I can''t open the Primordial Array. What follows is a final battle, filled with sacrifice."

    Moon Fairy had already departed! The duty of the body double was still to buy three more moments for the Heavenly Realm.

    Without another word, Yun Xiao swiftly prepared to return to the Heavenly Realm, his speed even surpassing that of the War Princess.

    "Come, I''ll take you," Yun Xiao said, standing on the sword, addressing the peerless beauty.

    "Me?" The War Princess'' face tightened slightly, stepping her long legs onto Yun Xiao''s sword.

    "Hold my waist, I''ll take you flying," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "Yes." The War Princess gently wrapped her arms around his waist, her fingertips trembling slightly.

    <em>VROOM! </em>Yun Xiao no longer spoke, breaking through the air on his sword, shooting towards the Ancestral Temple like a falling star!

    The battle there was far from over!

    Today, on both battlefields, the human race of the Divine Continent imed a resounding victory!

    First, they annihted the vanguard of the Demon Continent, and second, they crushed the pseudo demons, Violet Sky, from their own ranks. Such triumphs undoubtedly bolstered the resolve of the human race for a final, decisive battle!

    The remnants of the demon army, however many there were the humans were now ready to devour them all!

    The War Princess gazed at the young man before her with her dark red eyes, lost in thought. Being a devil, she naturally found human men somewhat diminutive and unattractive. But at this moment, she discovered something mesmerizing about this boy.

    "You have a strong spirit inside," the War Princess suddenly said close to his ear, almost shouting to be heard over the howling wind.

    "What?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I don''t know." She shook her head and then confidently added, "But it''s very strong!"

    "You noticed that?"

    The wind was indeed fierce, and Yun Xiao could barely hear her, mistaking her words for something less wholesome!

    "Devilish nature never fails to show," Yun Xiao thought to himself. Yet, recalling her behavior in front of the Violet Emperor, she had been quite astute and understanding. She knew Yun Xiao needed her docility as a ve to shatter the Violet Emperor''s heart and leave him bewildered even in the depths of theherworld.

    The War Princess was still marveling at the immense power of his spirit. Her cheeks flushed slightly, "Actually, it''s quite attractive. It''s hard for a girl to resist that kind of thing!"

    "Eh?" Yun Xiao nced towards the direction of the Divine Dawn Pce, shaking his head, "Forget it! I have high standards. I don''t y those games." He had only been joking when he told her he''d reward her at night, not expecting her to take it seriously!

    "What did you say?" The War Princess leaned closer, resting her pretty face on his shoulder, asking in a soft voice. The pressure was intense! Almost breathless!

    "ying coy with your devilish allure, huh?" Yun Xiao chuckled and suddenly brought the sword to a screeching halt in the air!

    "Ahh! "A delicate scream rang out in the sky!

    <em>VROOOM! SCREECH! VROOOM! </em>He elerated madly, banked sharply, and braked hard! Behind him, the devilish beauty was disheveled, her body swaying wildly, her screams continuous...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 233: A Sea of Blood and Mountain of Corpses, Forbidden Fate!

    Chapter 233: A Sea of Blood and Mountain of Corpses, Forbidden Fate!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao sheathed his sword and descended from the heavens,nding with a thud on the blood-soaked grounds of the Ancestral Temple.

    As far as the eye could see, this once majestic and bustling domain of the Heavenly Realm''s noble families had been reduced to ruins. Mountains of demon corpses piled high, their stench lingering in the air, unyielding.

    "Shameless scoundrel!" The War Princess, fixing her hair and dress, shot Yun Xiao a re before vanishing into the darkness.

    This was because Supreme Marshal Chen Xiao and the rulers of the other four Immortal Empires were approaching Yun Xiao.

    "How goes the battle?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    The vastness of the Ancestral Temple was overwhelming; from above, Yun Xiao could only see the endless pces drowned in a sea of blood.

    "Nearly every demon has been in, our losses are minimal," the Supreme Marshal reported, ncing back at the Ancestral Temple. "Of the 108 Demon Saints, most have met their end. A few remain in hiding, but we''ll find them!"

    "Good." Yun Xiao nodded, clearly marking a resounding victory. Then, he bowed to the four Emperors, who had been locked inbat with the high ranking demons. They were bloodied and slightly wounded. "Greetings, here are the remains of the Gu, Red Lotus, Eclipse, and Eternal Joy Demon Emperors."

    Yun Xiao presented the four Emperors, the leathery carapace of a green worm, bloody red lotus petals, the fur of a ck dog, and ck peacock feathers. Although these were only leftover remnants and not whole corpses, they still exuded a ferocious demonic power unmistakable to the eyes.

    "The four Demon Emperors are now just a part of history!" All of themTreasure Emperor, Clear Emperor, Martial Emperor, and Deste Emperorreceived a portion of the Demon Emperors'' remains, along with some of the corpses of the in Demon Saints.

    "Here''s more," Yun Xiao continued, producing two arms and two legs.

    "Are these... the limbs of the Violet Emperor?!" The four rulers gazed in mixed emotion at the remains of the once number one Emperor of the Divine Continenta presence so overwhelming in their lives, now reduced to cold limbs.

    "Move quickly," Yun Xiao urged, distributing the Violet Emperor''s limbs. "Return to your Immortal Empires as fast as you can. Bring as many armies as possible. The Heavenly Realm needs your support!"

    The bodies of the Violet Emperor and the four Demon Emperors would surely convince their people and secure their authority over their nations.

    "It''s a shame! We as Emperorsck the power to control our own nations. Allowing those demonic traitors to divide our people and deceive the masses!" the Treasure Emperormented, visibly distressed. Otherwise, their four Immortal Empires would have lent their support much sooner. Their internal politics were just as intricate, filled with characters like Ye Qingtian.

    "The four Demon Emperors and 108 Demon Saints are dead! Millions of demons have fallen! The Violet Sky Immortal Army annihted! Over 100 million demon forces decimated! Such a grand victory for humanity! If this doesn''t awaken the hearts of our people and crush the pseudo demons, then it''s our ipetence!" the Martial Emperor dered, sharing a knowing nce with the other three Emperors.

    "If we can''t mobilize the full might of our nations to wage a decisive battle against the Demon Continent, we''re willing to die as penance!" The four swore an oath and hastened away, their parting words echoing in Yun Xiao''s ears. "So, please have the Heavenly Realm hold on!"

    The Supreme Marshal watched the four rulers leave, then turned his gaze to the demonic shadows over the Heavenly Realm, asking Yun Xiao, "Are we about to face the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor in battle?"

    The demons and false demons within the Heavenly Realm had been mostly eradicated. Now, only the dark cloud-like demonic fog and the single, most powerful corpse demon remaineda being capable of infinite possibilities.

    "Yes, the final battle is upon us..." Yun Xiao furrowed his brows.

    "How fares the battle above?" the Supreme Marshal asked.

    "The Violet Sky Immortal Army was wiped out, but theirst stand was formidable. Now, the Demon Continent''s forces are probably less than 80 million," Yun Xiao reported.

    That was the precise situation observed by Moon Fairy.

    "Not bad at all!" The Supreme Marshal knew that if his Nine Heavens Immortal Army faced such a sudden onught, they wouldn''t fare much better.

    "These fools, with the power to fight, chose to grovel before the Demon Continent. Ridiculous," Yun Xiaomented coldly.

    "In the end, they wrought their own downfall. Groveling all their lives, and in the end, they inadvertently became our greatest contributors," the Supreme Marshal said with a sarcastic chuckle. He didn''t know how Yun Xiao did it, but looking at the young man now, he couldn''t help but admire, "You really are a master maniptor."

    "Maniptor? No." Yun Xiao shook his head. "I prefer being in the thick of battle and turning the tide with my sword." If it weren''t for the internal chaos andck of peakbatants among humanity, why bother with traps when one could strike with a single sword blow? Compared to that, he still preferred to dominate the heavens with his one sword.

    But s, with the enemy''s forces pressing in, the Primordial Array gone, and the scent of blood in the air, there wasn''t even time to cultivate! It was too tight! This timing was tighter than the War Princess''s corset.

    "Are you confident against the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor?" the Supreme Marshal voiced his deepest concern. "It''s a rare corpse demon. The more beings it kills, the stronger it bes. War is its strength. Yet we can''t refrain from ying demons..."

    Even if all the demons were in, would it inadvertently create an invincible, undying world-ending demon? This wasn''t mere spection. Moon Fairy had already seen the almost 30 million corpses of the Violet Sky Immortal Army and demon forces absorbed by this corpse demon.

    It had be a legion of corpses, one demon upying a third of the entire demonic cloud! Such a monstrous being was truly the most terrifying threat to all living creatures!

    So, Yun Xiao had no clue how to deal with Forbidden Fate. It was a step-by-step, wait-and-see game. He took a deep breath and stepped into the Ancestral Temple. Before himy countless demon corpses, a sea of bonesa true feast for a Sword Cultivator like him. And behind him, a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators stood ready.

    Above the Heavenly Realm, Moon Fairy stood amidst the blood-soaked clouds, witnessing the birth of this world-ending monster. "Did Divine Dawn foresee this far?" he wondered.

    The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor, growing stronger with every death, human or demon alike. How could one kill such a thing? It was a pile of corpses! No wonder they said the most resentful and vengeful demons were the strongest. Like the one born out of the Sword Dao Monument.

    This corpse demon, feeding on the battlefield''s anger, hatred, sorrow, and brutality, was constantly transforming, breaking its own limits over and over. The potential of a resentment demon seemed limitless!

    And now, Forbidden Fate had far surpassed the other four Demon Emperors. Its body was a horrifying collection of eyes, ears, mouths, noses, human hands, ws, hair, fur, bones...

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!" it roared from its mouth, a horrifying amalgamation of countless mouths, emitting a chorus of human and demon cries. Its eyes, a blend of countless human and beast eyeballs, darted around wildly.

    "Corpses! I need corpses!" After annihting the Violet Sky Immortal Army, this blood-red demonic cloud, carrying Forbidden Fate amidst a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood, pressed towards the Heavenly Realm.

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!" The 80 million demon forces had be relentless killing machines. Only the blood of humans could quench their thirst for vengeance.

    From the fall of Demon Continent''s prodigies to the death of the four Demon Emperors, they had lost so much they had gone mad. Thebat strength of the demon army at this moment was beyond measure!

    They had unleashed their most savage nature. With bloodlust in their eyes and their animal instincts overpowering their sentience, they charged towards the Heavenly Realm like starving wolves lunging for flesh.

    Theirbat strength was worlds apart from the million beleaguered remnants in the Ancestral Temple.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Blood clouds roiled, wildfire zed, and roars and howls shook the Divine Continent. The entire Heavenly Realm heard the uproar!

    "Forbidden Fate!" In this moment of utter chaos, a silver-haired figure, brandishing a skinless human head, emerged at the forefront of the vast army.

    "It''s Moon Fairy!" With all the other demon elites dead, Forbidden Fate and Moon Fairy had be thest pirs of hope for the demons. Compared to the terrifying corpse demon, a beast demon like Moon Fairy naturally seemed more approachable to themon demons.

    "I''ve in the Violet Emperor. I present his head!" Moon Fairy lifted the head, presenting it to Forbidden Fate. His news sparked a frenzied celebration among the brutal demons, momentarily halting their advance.

    "Good death!"

    "Traitor! Rebel! Die! Die! Die!"

    The 80 million demons, wounded or not, roared at the top of their lungs.

    "Lady Hua Lian wished to bring the elegance of the human world to the Demon Continent, to make it a ce of grace. But she underestimated the nature of demons..." Moon Fairy couldn''t help but think of her, her soul still on his heart-shaped earring, surely witnessing this scene.

    "Emperor!" Moon Fairy looked up with reverence. "Please ept this head!"

    The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor let out a mournful cry, its massive hand parting to reveal two human hands that tenderly held the Violet Emperor''s head.

    <em>CRACK! </em>The Violet Emperor''s head was embedded into Forbidden Fate''s forehead, blood vessels sprouting from the head, intertwining with the rest of his body. Then, the skinless head''s eyes opened, its face twisted,ughing eerily.

    "Good! Good!" The Violet Emperor had be a part of Forbidden Fate!

    The demons, exhrated and bloodthirsty, cheered wildly.

    "Moon Fairy! Let''s ughter together!"

    "To battle! To battle!"

    The demons, briefly dyed, refocused on the Heavenly Realm below, their murderous intent soaring anew.

    "With the Violet Emperor sain, next is Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao! Annihte the Heavenly Realm! Exterminate humanity!"

    The tumultuous sounds echoed in everyone''s ears.

    "Moon Fairy..." The mountain of flesh and corpses lowered its head, the skinless head of the Violet Emperor embedded in his brow looking at Moon Fairy. "Join me in avenging the Gu Emperor and Red Lotus," his voice, still tinged with a sob, carried endless sorrow.

    "Yes..." Moon Fairy nodded, then, with a grit of his teeth, turned back to look at the Heavenly Realm, his gaze deep. He spoke loudly, "Demon Emperor! I understand your pain from losing close friends and your eagerness for revenge. But the Heavenly Realm is brimming with battle spirit, fortified by the Primordial Array. Not only do we face the devils, but also thebined forces of the other four Immortal Empires. If we enter the Heavenly Realm, a prolonged siege could lead to us being trapped and utterly defeated!"

    Moon Fairy looked earnestly at Forbidden Fate, his voice filled with concern, "Before his death, the Violet Emperor exhausted every trick to lure us into the Heavenly Realm. Now, though we have destroyed the Violet Sky Immortal Army, we must learn from this and not fall into the same trap..."

    His words stirred chaos among the demon army! Most of the rampaging demons couldn''t bear such talk.

    "What''s there to fear? Just kill them! The humans are weak!"

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"

    "Moon Fairy, if you''re scared to kill, then get out!"

    However, some of the more astute demons furrowed their brows. Generally, one should avoid doing exactly what the enemy hoped for. Having killed the Violet Emperor and seen through his deception, why fall into another trap?

    "Don''t speak nonsense, Moon Fairy revealed the plot of Violet Sky and has done a great service!"

    "There''s some sense in what he says..."

    "Now that Violet Sky is gone and the other four Demon Emperors have fallen, these humans surely won''t sit still!"

    "The Heavenly Realm has the Primordial Array; it''s a quagmire. Once we''re in, we might not get out! We don''t have to attack the Heavenly Realm directly. We could descend on the Divine Continent first, seize the capitals of the other four Immortal Empires! Eradicate the Divine Continent first to remove future troubles, then encircle and destroy the Heavenly Realm!"

    The demons, with varying levels of intelligence, suddenly plunged into heated debate and chaos. Disagreeing with each other, they even resorted to killing, the standard demon way: if you didn''t want someone to talk, just bite off their head and gulp it down.

    "I propose we first annihte the other four Immortal Empires! That way, we won''t fear being trapped between forces!"

    "Without the Heavenly Realm''s support, they''ll be wiped out in a few days!"

    "If the Heavenly Realm dares to step out without the Primordial Array, they''ll be easily crushed!"

    These suggestions,ing from the more powerful and louder demons, echoed through the crowd. But the more savage demons couldn''t fathom giving the Heavenly Realm even a moment''s reprieve. They wanted to shred the Heavenly Realm just as they had done to Violet Sky.

    "Revenge now!" Their vocabry limited, they could only express their desire to kill and surged towards the Heavenly Realm.

    "Demon Emperor, please decide!" Moon Fairy pleaded, his eyes shimmering with urgency.

    Time was of the essence for both the Heavenly Realm and Yun Xiao. Without the Primordial Array, the realm would struggle to hold back the 80 million ferocious demons.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Finally, the demon army calmed slightly, turning their attention to the mountain of flesh and corpses.

    That mountain, with its myriad of blood-red eyes, had been watching Moon Fairy for a long time. Suddenly, its gigantic hand, a mix of ws and human fingers, reached out and touched Moon Fairy''s chest. A heartbreaking cry escaped Forbidden Fate, the sound tearing at one''s soul.

    "Without Gu, without Red Lotus, I have no kin left, the mountain of flesh mourned, tears of blood streaming from its eyes.

    "Demon Emperor, you still have me..." The thick blood mist enveloped Moon Fairy, sending shivers down his spine.

    "No, you''re not kin." Forbidden Fate''s voice turned mncholic, his sorrowful eyes fixated on Moon Fairy. "Why do you hate demons? Has Lady Hua Lian ever wronged you?"

 Chapter 234: Forbid Life, All Beings Connected

    Chapter 234: Forbid Life, All Beings Connected

    Moon Fairy''s entire being shuddered as he looked up and asked, "Demon Emperor, what are you talking about?"

    The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor shook his head. "I can feel it, your heart is cold as ice."

    "What?" Moon Fairy was taken aback.

    "Rtives passed away, millions of demons perished, but in your heart, there''s no real pain. All your reasoning, it''s all a setup..." Forbidden Fate''s eyes, set in a mountain of flesh and blood, trembled as they looked at Moon Fairy. "A heart can''t be deceived. Humans have human hearts, demons have demon hearts. You don''t grieve for the suffering of the Demon Continent. No matter how borate the disguise, without a demon''s heart, it will eventually be exposed!"

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about!" Moon Fairy gritted his teeth, looking up at him. "I''m ready to sacrifice everything for my n, whether it''s attacking the other four Immortal Empires or the Heavenly Realm, I''m ready to lead the charge!"

    "No..." Sorrow and ferocity, along with boundless anger, emerged in Forbidden Fate''s eyes, "From the beginning to the end, there''s only been one traitor in the Demon Continent, and that''s you! The sad thing is, I was deceived by you! It was I who killed Gu, Red Lotus, and Eclipse, it was all my doing..."

    The 80 million-strong demon army, listening to this conversation, werepletely baffled.

    "What does that mean?"

    "I have no idea!"

    "Has Forbidden Fate gone mad? Why is he talking nonsense..."

    All the demons stared nkly at Moon Fairy!

    "You are a demon, why doesn''t your heart side with demons?" Forbidden Fate seemed unable toprehend this question.

    "Is Moon Fairy really a traitor?"

    "Why?"

    "But the Violet Emperor indeed harbors ill intentions!"

    The crowd of demons descended into chaos!

    Amidst this turmoil, boundless rage surged in the heart of the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor! His eyes fixed on Moon Fairy, he roared with a thunderous fury, "With his blood, let''s descend upon the Heavenly Realm and avenge our fallen demon kin!"

    The demons caught on! They were still going to attack the Heavenly Realm! This resonated with some of them, so this group immediately believed Forbidden Fate and frenziedly prepared for ughter!

    Meanwhile, Moon Fairy found himself in a deadly crisis!

    "No, this is all wrong!!!" At that moment, the silver-haired young man suddenly furrowed his brow, ring intensely at Forbidden Fate. He dered with righteous anger, "Forbidden Fate! I know why you''re framing me! The demise of one-third of the Demon Continent''s demons, along with the recent fall of the Violet Sky immortal Army and 20 million of our kin, has given you, a corpse demon, a taste of unlimited power! You know full well the Heavenly Realm is a meat grinder for our demon kind. Yet, you insist on sending them to their deaths! You simply want the human and demon races to ughter each other, to reap countless deaths for your own strength, turning this world into a domain solely for yourself! You only care for yourself, you are the true traitor of the demon race!"

    These impassioned words, like a bucket of cold water, doused the cruel and hot-blooded fervor of every demon, chilling them to the core.

    "What..." The demons instinctively turned towards Forbidden Fate. They saw him, his body piled with the corpses of familiar demons, countless resentful spirits swirling around him, howling in a frenzy as if cheering for a feast of death! His body resembled a vortex of death, ready to engulf all humans and demons.

    "Is this his true intention?" Many demons were horrified.

    "Don''t listen to this sly fox''s nonsense! Foxes are cunning and deceitful. He even dares to nder Forbidden Fate, a true act of audaciousness!"

    "But what he says doesnt seem false..."

    The original Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor was not like this. This mountain of flesh and blood had already struck fear into many demons. With both demon and human bodies within it, could it still be considered a demon? Or had it transcended demonhood, bing some other monster?

    Moon Fairy''s words merely exposed the underlying fear many demons harbored towards this corpse demon, sparking chaos! A peculiar phenomenon arose! The bird, beast, and other animal demons all started growing restless. The more they feared Forbidden Fate, the more they sided with Moon Fairy!

    The rest, a motley crew of bizarre and strange demons, fervently supported Forbidden Fate, their eyes filled with nothing but bloodlust and vengeance!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the demons argued, Forbidden Fate stopped speaking. Yet, his body began to tremble violently, with angry demon and human faces, twisted and hollow-eyed, crowding his surface, all facing towards Moon Fairy!

    "Eclipse, he met his end like this, didn''t he? I have wronged him! Woe is me..." Forbidden Fate wept bitterly, as if reliving the unspeakable agony that the Eclipse Demon Emperor faced in his final moments. The weeping was ghostly, eerie, and downright twisted!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor made his move!

    The crowd of demons trembled in their hearts! Regardless of their allegiance, they scattered thunderously, daring not to interfere. Forbidden Fate''s only target was Moon Fairy!

    The mountain of flesh and blood extended countless tentacles made of arms and beast limbs, like a hundred thousand whips,shing towards Moon Fairy. Each tentacle was dense with demonic energy and the stench of blood!

    "Die! Die!" Countless mouths on the flesh mountain roared in unison. Its murderous intent, formed by the collective will of over 100 million demons, poured down upon Moon Fairy!

    The demons watched helplessly as the present and future of the Demon Continent shed at the gates of the Heavenly Realm, powerless to intervene.

    "Dammit..." Moon Fairy, having just shifted suspicion onto Forbidden Fate instead, hadn''t expected this corpse demon to go berserk!

    "Forbidden Fate! There''s no end to suffering, turn back to the shore!" Moon Fairy could only use his frail body to hold it off, buying time for the armies of the other four Immortal Empires!

    Yun Xiao was not ready to lose his body double yet!

    "Listen to me! We can go to the other four Immortal Empires, you can still kill and grow stronger, why rush this moment?" As Moon Fairy valiantly intercepted Forbidden Fate , in the eyes of some demons, he was still one of their own...

    <em>BUZZ!</em> Moon Fairy transformed into a Three-Tailed Demon Fox, dodging the storm of a hundred thousand tentacles with incredible speed, narrowly escaping death multiple times!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Those hundred thousand tentacles, having already absorbed some living demons, showed no restraint. When they identally struck the demon crowd, bodies and blood flew everywhere, tearing demons apart, their remains sticking to the flesh mountain!

    "Forbidden! Stop! Don''t harm the innocent!" the Three-Tailed Demon Fox cried in anguish.

    "DIE!" The flesh mountain seemed deaf to his pleas. Truth be told, that corpse demon did possess some of the characteristics Moon Fairy used it of, and that was a desire to devour everything! Now, it was using rationality to control its body. Once that rationality was consumed by desire, it became a merciless monster, a creator of death and corpses!

    Moon Fairy''s usations against it weren''t without reason!

    <em>SPLATTER SPLATTER SPLATTER! </em>A hundred thousand tentacles swept through, and even the slightest brush resulted in over a hundred thousand demons maimed and instantly wiped out by Forbidden Fate!

    "Forbidden Fate has truly gone mad!"

    "He''s killing us at will, clearly disregarding our lives!"

    "Moon Fairy was right! He wants us to march into the Primordial Array, turning into corpses to fuel his own growth!"

    "It''s a monster! Not a demon anymore..."

    Many demons were in despair!

    It was supposed to be the Demon Continent crushing the Divine Continent. They originally had five Demon Emperors, 108 Demon Saints, and a 100 million-strong demon army. How did ite to this?

    Four Demon Emperors, the Demon Saints, and the young demon prodigies had all perished. Now, the strongest Demon Emperor had turned into a heartless monster of blood and flesh!

    The fervent battle spirit ignited by defeating the Violet Sky Immortal Army turned cold, various opinions disrupting the morale.

    "Forbidden Fate! Wake up, show us demons a way to survive!" Moon Fairy''s eyes zed as he dodged perilously. "Or was it your n all along to destroy everything for your own gain?!"

    <em>BANG! </em>The tentacles formed a giant, enveloping the sky above, pressing down with countless crimson mes of blood!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Three-Tailed Demon Fox, with the power of Destion, shattered the. Yet, he couldn''t fend off the multitude of tentaclesshing at him!

    Forbidden Fate''s strength was formidable. Even Moon Fairy''s Divine Destion Physique couldn''t endure those strikes. He was covered in bloody wounds.

    Moon Fairy wished to rally all the demons to his cause. But as he looked around, he saw only confusion, worry, and numbness in the eyes of the demon army. They weren''t continuing their assault on the Heavenly Realm, and that was already a mercy! Changing the entire demon army''s resolve with just a few words was indeed impossible.

    "I can only do my best and leave the rest to fate! If worsees to worst, I''ll abandon this body double..." Moon Fairy''s expression was stern and resolute! He darted through the air, charging towards the face of the flesh mountain, his ws fiercely tearing through!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The face of Forbidden Fate exploded on the spot, spewing a deluge of corpse blood, and the massive mountain of flesh and blood reeled backward!

    "Moon Fairy is formidable!" As numerous demons stood in awe, Forbidden Fate''s shattered face swiftly reformed. Its body, vast and boundless,cked a true core, rendering it unkible. As long as resentment lingered, it existed! In an era of war, with corpses and hatred abound, it was a living nightmare!

    "Moon Fairy, are you so agitated because the Primordial Array is indeed broken?" the head of the Violet Emperor at the brow of the flesh mountain spoke eerily.

    Moon Fairy didn''t respond but instead crushed the Violet Emperor''s head with a swipe!

    "Hee hee hee..." Another skinless head of the Violet Emperor emerged,ughing at Moon Fairy. "Perfect, you''re scared, which means you''re finished."

    <em>BAM! </em>Moon Fairy crushed it again with a swift w! And yet, another Violet Emperor head appeared.

    "You''re not wrong," it said softly, "I don''t just want humans to perish, but demons too. Forbidden Fate means forbidding life itself! I long for all beings to be corpses, parts of my body. That way, all beings and I will be connected, no longer alone, hee hee hee."

    These words were meant for Moon Fairy''s ears only, not for other demons to hear.

    Moon Fairy watched in silence, and after a while, he spoke heavily, "When you lose your supporters, lose your friends, your existence loses its meaning, and extinction will be your only fate."

    "Really? I''m looking forward to it!" Forbidden Fate sneered. "You, a fascinating little fox. My rise begins with your flesh and blood, hee hee hee..."

    Laughing, the flesh mountain transformed drastically, its face ripping apart into a gigantic maw. Swirling with a mist of blood, it engulfed the Three-Tailed Demon Fox in an instant!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 235: 10,000 Meter Sword, Spirit Spanning Millions of Miles!

    Chapter 235: 10,000 Meter Sword, Spirit Spanning Millions of Miles!

    Inside the putrid, sticky, blood-soaked body of Forbidden Fate, Moon Fairy found himself in a ghastly situation. UGH!" No sooner had he been swallowed than his silver fur turned a sickening greenish-red. The overpowering stench seeped into his very pores, an assault on the senses. He was revolted. It was the kind of nausea that could churn the guts of the mightiest warriors.

    Buzzing and humming, Moon Fairy was swept along the endless, intertwined intestines into Forbidden Fate''s stomacha patchwork of human and demon stomachs, the most foul-smelling ce in this unholy body. The stomach fluids, a mire of colors and corpse stench, threatened to corrupt his Divine Destion Physique.

    The demon was enormous, transcending the mere category of demon!

    Where could Moon Fairy even begin to cast his magic in this maze?

    You think you can digest me, make me part of your undead mess? Moon Fairy thought, his face contorted in disgust and defiance. He was from the Heavenly Realm, where Yun Xiao''s will was as fierce as a storm. As a guardian of the Divine Continent, surrender was not an option!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Over five thousand Deste Essences erupted from him, unleashing a storm of lightning, fire, frost, winds, darkness, and necromancy. They tore through the sticky sea of stomach fluids, striking the beast''s stomach walls with ferocity.

    <em>BANG BANG BANG! </em>The Deste Essences born of thousands of worlds, ripped the stomach lining apart, sending fragments and blood swirling in a maelstrom.

    Can I tear him apart from the inside? Just as Moon Fairy considered this, the ruptured stomach lining began to wriggle and heal, forming anew. The stomach was like a prison of blood and corpses, relentlessly squeezing him. This monster is a nexus of grudges; its insides are even tougher than the outside!

    In other words, there was no inside or outside for this being, only strong and stronger parts! His fantasy of tearing through its stomach and escaping was just thata fantasy. Even if he could burst through, tearing apart its organs meant little to this abomination.

    "Dammit! Moon Fairy wed and bit his way through a sea of flesh, tearing open a bloody cavity in the heap of corpses. But his efforts were like punching cottonutterly futile.

    Instead, the shattered, torn bodies, driven by their grudges, writhed madly, squeezing him relentlessly. His Divine Destion Physique could withstand millions, even tens of millions of undead pressing upon him, but against the flesh of over 100 million demons and humans on this creature, it was a different story. They contracted, crowded, and quivered, almost crushing him alive.

    Id rather fight ten Eclipse Demon Emperors than face this nightmare... Ahhh! Not only was Moon Fairy going mad, but Yun Xiao in the Heavenly Realm was also retching, his face turning a ghastly purple from the pressure.

    Fortunately, although Forbidden Fate had vast amounts of flesh and a huge form, its ordinary flesh wasnt particrly tough. Moon Fairys Divine Destion Physique, advancing towards perfection, barely held up under the immense pressure.

    "Why do you, a mere fox, possess such a sturdy body?" Forbidden Fate wondered, perplexed that he couldn''t devour Moon Fairy immediately.

    "I am rooted in my body, while you are rooted in resentment. I have the potential to reach the heavens, but your resentment is your downfall. Your true limit is quite low," Moon Fairy retorted coldly. Resentment and corpse demons were strong. However, once they strayed from the Demon Dao, they could only increase in size, not in cultivation.

    "Do you wish to discuss with me what a true demon is?" Forbidden Fate sneered. This was his true natureselfish, greedy, delusional, and insatiable in his desire to consume. As for familial love and deep affection, those were just tales for the lesser demons. He cared neither for the four great Demon Emperors nor the Demon Continent.

    "You think you are a true demon?" Moon Fairy scoffed.

    "Time will tell everything," Forbidden Fate said in a ghostly voice.

    "No matter how long, you can''t escape your shackles. You will never fathom the world beyond your well," Moon Fairy replied.

    "Shame you are even more pitiable, for you don''t even have time." Forbidden Fate let out a strange, eerieugh, continuing to drain Moon Fairys energy through endless crushing and strangtion through his undead flesh.

    "There wille a moment when you''repletely drained, while I am born for ughter. As long as there''s killing, I am endless! And you, trapped here, will wither in despair..." Forbidden Fate''s voice, a blend of countless, echoed through each piece of flesh. And at his brow, where the face of the Violet Emperor resided, he looked down towards the Heavenly Realm and cackled, "It''s time to end all this."

    <em>BOOM! </em>The mountain of undead flesh started rolling, with countless streams of blood and dark energy escaping the gaps, jetting towards the Heavenly Realm. He let out a soul-shaking roar that seemed to shake the very heavens. "Moon Fairy is dead, the traitor vanquished. Demon Continents spirits, join me in battle!"

    With these words, the 80 million-strong demon army, initially stunned, soon had their eyes zing red again. The furious and violent thoughts reignited, burning fiercely. Moon Fairy had offered them a new path, but s, he couldn''t defeat Forbidden Fate. So, the demon army had no choice!

    In the Demon Continent, the strongest alwaysmanded the most loyalty. With no other choice, their singr focus became clear: fight to the bitter end! In this regard, demons were indeed simpler than humans.

    And so, with a thunderous roar, the sky-darkening mountain of undead flesh, apanied by the 80 million demons, charged towards the gates of the Heavenly Realm. Meanwhile, the Violet Emperor''s skinless head swayed, wearing a creepy smile. "No Primordial Array anymore? Heeheeheehee"

    Back in the Heavenly Realm, Yun Xiao had just finished absorbing the corpses of the Demon Emperors and Demon Saints within the Ancestral Temple,

    Mid Saint Realm, 1,000yers of Sword Aura," Yun Xiao muttered, gazing at the azure Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand. The bones of 10 million fallen demons had been drained by a hundred thousand Sword Cultivators!

    Yun Xiao himself had absorbed the bones of over a million demons!! Sadly, these demons who came to watch the battle were somewhatcking in strength. They only added 400 extrayers to his Sword Aura. The more Sword Aura umted, the harder it was to increase.

    "The efficacy of demon bones... it seems piling up numbers doesnt do much. That girl from the Eternal Sword Prison her 600yers of Sword Aura must havee from high ranking demons."

    As Moon Fairy made hisst stand above, Yun Xiao finally broke through to the Mid Saint Realm. "Using my Divine Destion Physique tobat this flesh monster feels like being restrained, quite powerless! I hope this Heaven Burial Sword Soul can truly wound its core."

    Sword Cultivators were naturally the nemesis of demons! Especially the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, known for incinerating flesh! Grasping the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, Yun Xiao surveyed the faces before him.

    Among the Nine Divine Guards, aside from the Emperors of the other four great Immortal Empires, the remaining five were like wandering knights of the mortal world, they were present!

    The Supreme Marshal, Zhao Xuanjian, Sword Saint Sun... all the mighty warriors of the Divine Continent were there! A hundred thousand Sword Cultivators were present! The Nine Heavens Immortal Army was also there! This demon-ying operation at the Ancestral Temple was akin to an ambush, extremely effective against the lesser demons.

    Even so, the ferocity of these demons had brought significant casualties to the Nine Heavens Immortal Army! The Supreme Marshal didn''t go into details, but Yun Xiao could tell: every soldier was bloodied, many had likely sacrificed their lives for their country.

    The Divine Continent, the nation, the people All these zed like fierce fires in everyones hearts.

    Supreme Marshal. Yun Xiao took a deep breath, asking in a low voice, If we mobilize every cultivator in the Heavenly Realm, excluding the elderly and the weak, how many can we gather?

    Together with the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, about thirty million. But at least half of them wont be very skilled, the Supreme Marshal replied.

    On the battlefield, conventional strength was fundamental!

    The Demon Continent originally had 100 million elite soldier level demons. Even after the Great Merciful Tribtion that befell them, they still had at least 60 million elite demon soldiers remaining. In contrast, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army only had 10 million elite soldiers. The gap in numbers was too huge.

    After defeating the Violet Sky Immortal Army, the Demon Continent''s army, nearing 80 million, still mostlyprised elite troops. They were the essence of the force, refined from the excess.

    In the Heavenly Realm, among the 30 million capable of fighting, half were irregr cultivators...

    "Conscript everyone, hold the gates of the Heavenly Realm as our fortress," Yun Xiao dered with a grave expression.

    The Primordial Array was tied to that little tiger bell called Pomelo, a direct belonging of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor. With such limited time, Yun Xiao could only rely on the gates of the Heavenly Realm.

    "Not guarding the Primordial Array but the gates instead, the people will be confused. How do we handle this?" the Supreme Marshal asked somberly.

    Up to now, the 30 million cultivators remained optimistic, believing in the continued existence of the Primordial Array.

    "Let the Primordial Array live on in our hearts," Yun Xiao said, gripping his sword tightly, gazing at the sky, his teeth clenched. "Forbidden Fate and the demon army are not an iron wall. Well make our stand!"

    "Understood!" The Supreme Marshal nodded.

    The two men exchanged a knowing look, understanding that the truth about the Primordial Array could not be revealed, especially now.

    "To overthrow the Demon Continents oppression and truly stand up, the Primordial Array alone isn''t enough. It can only defend, but it''s the swords and magic treasures that can truly shatter the demons!"

    So, Yun Xiao decided to let everyone believe it didn''t exist.

    Outside the Heavenly Realm, Moon Fairy''s struggle had be ineffective. It was time to move!

    As Yun Xiao was about to lead the charge, from a group of captives, a violet-robed girl leaped out, pointing at Yun Xiao and screaming, You ughtered millions of our demon friends, sparking this war. Yet, you im to save countless lives. You''re the greatest viin in the history of the Divine Continent!

    "Who is this?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Violet Sky Immortal Empire''s Fourth Princess," replied Nangong Xi.

    The girl continued herment, her voice breaking, Demons are kind, they have graced the Divine Continent with benevolence, civilized and naive. Yet you, as humans, act like devils, bringing disaster to the people! Your ancestors and descendants, for generations, should reflect! Even in hell, you should reflect!

    "Demons naive? We should reflect?" Yun Xiao nced at her. "Then throw her among the dark-furred monkey demons. Let her see how naive these demon friends really are."

    "Right!" The Nine Heavens Immortal Army and human cultivators roared in approval.

    "Reflect on this!" Indeed, as the Fourth Princess was thrown among the monkey demons, her piercing cries of reflection echoed in the air.

    "Everyone!" Yun Xiao rose on his Sovereign Sword, his hair flying, his white robe billowing, hovering above the army. "With a sword ten thousand meters long, my spirit spanning millions of miles, all cultivators follow me, to y every demon of the Demon Continent!"

    <em>VROOOM! </em>His sword soared into the sky, like a radiant sun. Behind him, from all corners of the Heavenly Realm, countless cultivators rose like zing stars, following this sun, rushing towards the gates of the Heavenly Realm!

 Chapter 236: One Man Against an Army

    Chapter 236: One Man Against an Army

    In an ancient underground pce, a man in white strolled into its deepest chamber. He was a middle-aged Sword Cultivator, his eyes like twin seas of swords, casting endless sword shadows wherever he gazed.

    "Qian Die?" he paused at a spot, his expression turning icy as he picked up a piece of azure fabric from the ground. His face grew dark and cold.

    "Bold indeed, to dare kill one of my Eternal Sword Prison disciples," he narrowed his eyes, his nose twitching slightly. Smirking wickedly, he said, "The scent of a devil? So, the Endless Netherworld has opened its gates too."

    With a sudden turn, he strode towards the exit of the pce!

    Meanwhile, in the Heavenly Realm, the blood of the human cultivators boiled with fervor. Led by Yun Xiao, they rushed towards the gates of the Heavenly Realm, ready to face the demons at the first line of defense.

    "This young one is quite interesting," the solitary figure in white mused, licking his lips. "If it''s a final battle, the devil should show up. To dare kill my disciple, you better be someone significant, otherwise... heh heh heh..."

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The golden gates of the Heavenly Realm appeared again, sealing its entrance. Amidst the attention of thousands, only one person stood outside the gate!

    Countless members of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army and human cultivators, having just defeated the demons at the Ancestral Temple, now hurriedly gathered at the Heavenly Realm''s gate. The gate acted as a colossal shield, defining the battleground.

    With the entrance to the Heavenly Realm being narrow, the vast demon army couldn''t swarm in all at once. This meant that the elite part of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army was effectively blocking the gate!

    Outside, Yun Xiao stood like a lone general challenging the enemy at the city gates, facing the terrifying demon clouds with an unyielding stance that inspired everyone.

    At this moment, the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm were filled with strong beliefs. They had just vanquished the demons of the Ancestral Temple, their morale sky-high, and with the belief that the Primordial Array, the second line of defense, stood behind them, their hearts were steadfast.

    "The demon army is weakened, nothing to fear! With our two lines of defense, we can surely hold out until the armies of the other four Immortal Empires arrive!"

    "The only concern is the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor. Its said to have grown stronger by consuming so many corpses. We must prevent him from attacking the gate of the Heavenly Realm!"

    Ordinary demons attacking the gate would have to pay with their lives, but the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor could potentially smash through this massive shield!

    "Don''t worry, our Empress and Yun Xiao can handle it," the human cultivators said; their faith in these two had reached an almost blind level. Whatever Yun Xiao did, nothing surprised them anymore...

    This was not the attitude of a people under siege by a demon army. It was more like a bunch of folks watching monkeys trying to storm a city, their inherent confidence and pride unshakable.

    On one side, the horde of demons roared fiercely.

    On the other, the human cultivators were all smiles and jokes...

    "Gentlemen, let''s keep our humor, but don''t let your guard downter!"

    "Nonsense! We''re just confident and full of faith, not delusional."

    "To be honest, we really see hope now!"

    Under themand of the Supreme Marshal, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army was the first to arrive, already setting up formations at the gate of the Heavenly Realm.

    Only about a million stood at the forefront, the entrance to this pocket universe was only so big. But this was the advantage of the Heavenly Realm. If the gate wererger, the overwhelming numbers of the enemy could be fully utilized.

    "All forces, prepare!" the Supreme Marshalmanded, standing solemnly and majestically in front of his troops.

    The demon horde, like a surge of ck and red waves, roared towards them, endless as far as the eye could see.

    Yet, what stood out most wasn''t the golden shield of the Heavenly Realm, but a young man in white standing before it.

    "Yun Xiao!"

    One man standing against 80 million demonswasn''t this suicidal?

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The noise from the demon army was enough to drown out any sound. So, Yun Xiao didn''t speak, and no one could have heard him if he had. He simply drew his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, mounted it, and transformed into a streak of blue light, charging towards the endless ck demon clouds.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The hearts of the human army behind him surged with even greater excitement. What kind of audacity was this? From the moment Yun Xiao appeared, he had been instilling one key idea into the hearts of all human cultivators, and that was confidence!

    Confidence was the pinnacle!

    For generations, humans faced demons with an instinctive cowardice, fear, and reluctance to draw their swords, crushed under a heavy mental burden. But now, their hearts truly stood tall. For a coward, the idea of being overly proud was ludicrous.

    The immediate priority was to stand and fight!

    "He''s a real daredevil!"

    "But such a daredevil can inspire the people, the masses, to cast aside nightmares, and fight to the death!"

    The Supreme Marshal, Sword Saint Sun, and others knew that every action of Yun Xiao was a rallying cry for courage.

    The human spirit was the greatest weapon on the battlefield!

    "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

    For a thousand generations, they had been humbled, and endured a thousand generations of humiliation. Would they tolerate it any longer?

    Who said they couldn''t be confident?

    Those constantly pushing you into self-doubt, making you reflect, were the real viins, the scoundrels!

    A streak of blue light, like a needle piercing through flesh and blood, couldn''t kill many demons, but none could touch him either. Except for the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor!

    Without a second thought, Yun Xiaounched his attack directly at the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor! And why not? His body double, Moon Fairy, was already battling inside the demon, locked in a deadly fight!

    "If I can hold it off, the rest is up to them..." ncing back, he saw the Heavenly Realm aze with fighting spirit. Besides the Heavenly Realm''s army, there was a shadowy figure in ck and redthe War Princess!

    Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy, one on the outside, one within, were already engaged in fierce battle with the corpse demon.

    When she would join depended on how the situation evolved. If Yun Xiao could hold his ground, she might secretly aid the human forces in guarding the gate of the Heavenly Realm.

    "Additionally, the timing of her Endless Netherworld reinforcements could be crucial!" Yun Xiao thought! His only focus was to hold on.

    At this moment, the vanguard of the demon army, like a colossal pir of blood, crashed against the gate of the Heavenly Realm.

    "Fire!" the Supreme Marshalmanded, calm and collected, leading the charge. With both hands, he conjured a lightning tiger, hurling it into the midst of the demon horde.

    The strength of the human armyy in theirrge-scale, wide-ranging destructive spells, while the demons excelled in closebat. So, defending the gate of the Heavenly Realm, holding the giant shield, and continuously bombarding with spells was key!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Millions of spells passed through the gate, forming a tide of various elements like wind, fire, water, earth, thunder, and frost, bombarding the blood-red column of demons!

    The raging storm of spells tore through the demons, turning them into countless corpses, which, to everyone''s horror, were absorbed by the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor!

    Each act of ughter only strengthened Forbidden Fate. But there was no other option. The gate of the Heavenly Realm had to be defended!

    Only the Supreme Marshal and Yun Xiao knew there was no Primordial Array. This was theirst stand! If the gate fell, 80 million demons would invade the Heavenly Realm, spelling doom for their race.

    In this brutal battle at the gate, where demons used their lives to attack and the Nine Heavens Immortal Army used theirs to defend, the Supreme Marshal could only be ruthless and fierce, directing waves of warriors to rece the fallen.

    It was clear that, in the art of war, humans surpassed demons by more than just a level.

    "That kid''s suggestion, it really worked!" The Supreme Marshal looked back at the Nine Heavens Immortal Army. These warriors, facing the onught of demons, showed no fear in their eyes, only coldness, hatred, and a desire to annihte.

    "It''s not just him. Her Majesty''s act of dering war has also boosted the morale of the entire poption!" Sword Saint Sun looked around and asked, "Why isn''t Her Majesty joining Yun Xiao?"

    "For this? My girl doesn''t need to step in for such a thing!" the Supreme Marshal boasted confidently.

    "..." Sword Saint Sun''s vision darkened for a moment. Since when had they all be this confident?

    "Enough questions! Next wave, you Sword Cultivators take the front, use your Flying Swords to carve a path!" the Supreme Marshal roared.

    "Yes!" Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian were already prepared.

    "As long as Forbidden Fate doesn''te up and blow up the gate of the Heavenly Realm, we should be able to hold out until the reinforcements from the other four Immortal Empires arrive!" the Supreme Marshal dered coldly.

    "Have you noticed? The resolve of the demons seems shaky! The lesser demons charge ahead to breach the city, while the greater demons hang back, watching," observed Sword Saint Sun, raising an eyebrow.

    "Forbidden Fate is still devouring the corpses of demons, surely instilling fear in some of them. This is our chance..." The Supreme Marshal''s gaze was deep and intense. They were far from idle, onemanding the army, the other the Flying Swords, both blocking the gate of the Heavenly Realm, continuously unleashing spells and swords outward.

    The roars and booms shook the heavens and earth, causing the entire pocket universe to tremble. Wave after wave of bloody onught stained the golden gate of the Heavenly Realm red. But these bloody stains were quickly absorbed by Forbidden Fate, bing part of him.

    "The situation is really not that bad!" After withstanding the first wave of the demon army''s assault, the Nine Heavens Immortal Army''s confidence soared, and the gate stood firm as a mountain.

    "Kill!!"

    With strengthened resolve, their lethality surged!

    "Just don''t let the Forbidden Fate get through!"

    As the human army defended this narrow passage, the eyes of countless human cultivators, burning with determination, were fixed on a brilliant sun-like figure in their hearts.

    <em>KLANG! </em>A chaotic sword light, like a falling star, struck the mountain of flesh and corpses.

    <em>SLASH! </em>The 1,000yer Sword Aura of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul proved effective. With one sh, a gash a thousand meters long opened in front of Forbidden Fate, spewing blood and limbs!

    "Sword Cultivator!" Atop the mountain of flesh, the skinless head of the Violet Emperor turned towards Yun Xiao, grinning sinisterly, "You''re quite brave."

    Yun Xiao stood with his sword, his white robe fluttering, blocking the path to the mountain of flesh.

    "I''m thinking, if I refine your body into a Blood Crystal Sword Ring, how powerful would it be?" Yun Xiao''s gaze was intense.

    At this, Forbidden Fate''sugh grew even more chilling. "I''m also thinking about something," the skinless head on Forbidden Fate''s brow said eerily. "Once I devour you and destroy the gate of the Heavenly Realm, consume all the flesh of the Heavenly Realm and demon army, then go to the rest of the Divine and Demon Continents and devour all living beings, how strong will I be?"

    "That won''t happen!!" Yun Xiao, while speaking, took out four Pouches of Holding and poured out 40,000 Sword Hearts. "May the ancestors bless me!"

 Chapter 237: One Sword Covering the Sky, Defying the Heavens! (1)

    Chapter 237: One Sword Covering the Sky, Defying the Heavens! (1)

    A total of 40,000 Sword Hearts! From the ancestral bones of the Sword Cultivators, a whirlpool torrent formed, swirling around Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul! He was engulfed by millions of demons, and even the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm had lost sight of him, let alone discern his current state.

    But then, a storm, ck as night and fierce as a dragon, erupted, grinding countless demons to dust. Sword energy, piercing the heavens, burst forth! Blood and corpses flew, sucked into the voracious maw of Forbidden Fate, creating a void in the midst of chaos.

    There, the young man in white became faintly visible. What he held was not so much a sword, but a 300-meter-long, ck and azure storm dragon, embodying the strength of 40,000 Sword Hearts, including those of three Sword Saints!

    The lifelong cultivation of forty thousand ancestors ignited in that single stroke. Millions of fierce demons surrounded him, but the young mans face showed no fear, his sword piercing the sky!

    Such courage inspired the human warriors at the gates of the Heavenly Realm, their conviction burning as fiercely as Yun Xiao''s sword in hand. As long as the sword endured, the man would not fall!

    "For the Heavenly Realm! Kill!" A cold, merciless roar echoed from both Yun Xiao and the cultivators of the Heavenly Realm, perfectly in sync!

    "This Sword Soul..." Atop the mountain of flesh and blood, the skinless head of the Violet Emperor twisted in a mix of fear and awe. He had never truly faced Yun Xiao, but that one sh had inflicted more damage than expected!

    Forbidden Fate never imagined that even him, a creature defying the heavens, could feel so overwhelmed.

    <em>HUM! </em>Within the throng of demons, Yun Xiaos icy gaze locked onto it! With a flick of his three-foot azure de, it transformed into a three hundred meter long, massive Sovereign Sword, clearly visible to all, be they human or demon!

    "No matter what demon you are, Sword Cultivators will always be your master!" Yun Xiao stood atop the massive sword, substituting his hands for feet in a disy of unparalleled swordsmanship!

    The Sovereign Sword, heavy with the weight of the world, resonated and unleashed a dark azure storm, hurtling towards Forbidden Fate!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The impact shook the entire battlefield!

    The gigantic sword, roaring like a thousand armies, or perhaps ten thousand dragons, charged straight ahead!

    <em>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </em>Along the way, tens of thousands of demons, heedless of their fate, hurled themselves at the colossal Sovereign Sword, only to disintegrate in mid-scream, leaving not even blood or remains behind!

    The deadly essence of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, transcending all life, was disyed in all its gruesome glory.

    <em>Constetion ying Sword</em>, <em>Starbirth Neb!</em>

    Yun Xiao, standing upon the sword, watched as the universe itself seemed to orbit the de. Stars twirled, as if the cosmos itself moved for this one sword strike, reversing the celestial order!

    Forbidden Fate, a grotesque mountain of flesh, was too massive and unwieldy to dodge.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In an instant, the storm-wrapped Sovereign Sword tore through countless demons. Its tip pierced the Forbidden Fate''s gargantuan face, bursting out from the back of its skull!

    The head of Forbidden Fate exploded, turning into a cloud of bloody mist that enveloped the battlefield. Even chunks of his flesh were quickly incinerated by the dark azure storm of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    When Yun Xiao first used the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to absorb the power of the Sword Hearts, the spirits of the Wu Family were also reduced to bones, their flesh obliterated with a single stroke.

    "This Sword Cultivator!" The sight sent shivers down the spines of countless demons. The formidable Forbidden Fate, felled by a single blow to the head!

    And that wasn''t all, a dark azure me clung to the demon''s neck, burning downwards. Wherever the fire touched, the demon''s flesh vaporized into blue smoke, leaving nothing, not even a hair!

    "This restraint is even more effective than I imagined..." Yun Xiao, soaring on his sword, felt his spirit surge. The sense of helplessness Moon Fairy felt inside the demon''s body had been a shock, but now, annihting Forbidden Fate himself, he regained hisposure.

    Such was the way of Heaven Buribsolute death, Forbidden Fate''s greatest weakness, not even leaving behind blood or bones!

    "But, the power of the 40,000 Sword Hearts is dwindling, and its size is still massive!" Yun Xiao swiftly turned, the Sovereign Sword returning to his palm.

    The headless monstrosity, now with multiple mouths screaming in pain, and numerous crimson eyes squeezing out of the crevices in its flesh, gazed at Yun Xiao with savage fury.

    "The power you borrowed is running out, you cannot kill me! As long as I refuse to die, I shall exist eternally!" Forbidden Fate, wounded and enraged, his 100 million corpse souls fusing into a chorus of fury, sounded even more unnerving.

    Inside him, Moon Fairy wasn''t dead, still tearing at his flesh, though not as effectively as Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Seeing Forbidden Fate still alive, the lesser demons attacked the gate of the Heavenly Realm with renewed savagery. The more they died, the more their blood and corpses flowed to Forbidden Fate, regenerating his head.

    As long as the war raged, Forbidden Fate would not die! The only silver lining was that, after this scene, part of the demon army grew even more fearful of Forbidden Fate.

    "He''s out of control!"

    "If we let him grow, even if we conquer the Heavenly Realm, it will be of no benefit."

    "Do you believe him when he says the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Array is gone?"

    The demons were in disarray!

    Moon Fairy''s words echoed in their minds. But this time, Moon Fairy wasn''t deceiving themit was true!

    The stronger the corpse demon became, the less it retained its self-awareness. The grievances of countless corpses formed a new consciousness!

    So, the demon army waspletely divided, the stronger demons retreating in fear. They wouldn''t help the Heavenly Realm, but they dared not continue to fuel Forbidden Fate''s immortality with their deaths.

    "As soon as Forbidden Fate dies, the demon army will lose its leader, and their will to fight will copse!" Yun Xiao, the Supreme Marshal, and others knew this well.

    An army of 80 million demons was too much to deal with! A frontal assault was hopeless, but if they could undermine the will of the demon army, they could hold out.

    The key was Forbidden Fate!

    "Let the Mortal Dust Devil Blood rise! The Heaven Burial Sword Soul burns corpses, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood absorbs them. There might be a chance," Blue Star said.

    "Come here!" Yun Xiao called towards the gate of the Heavenly Realm. In such a chaotic and violent battlefield, his voice couldn''t carry over. But the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in the heart of the War Princess echoed his call, summoning her.

 Chapter 238: One Sword Covering the Sky, Defying the Heavens! (2)

    Chapter 238: One Sword Covering the Sky, Defying the Heavens! (2)

    In a battlefield shrouded in blood mist and storms of daoist spells, Yun Xiao didn''t need to exin who she was; most couldn''t even see her.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A streak of blood light shot across the battlefield, appearing beside Yun Xiao. With ck hair and red eyes, a devilish figure, and slender, shapely legs, topped with exquisite blood dragon horns, she merged wlessly with the battlefield. A devil, indeed, born for battle!

    "The War Princess..." Forbidden Fate finally saw her again. "I treated you with respect, and yet you harbored betrayal. Is this the measure of a devil?"

    What was once a new friend had now be an obstacle.

    The War Princess felt helpless; she had indeed been a friend to Forbidden Fate, but Yun Xiao had forced her hand to betray it. The pretense had be reality.

    "There''s nothing left to say. You''vee to this point where even the Endless Netherworld would kill you. A rogue corpse demon is a threat to all life," the War Princess said coldly.

    "Hee hee hee... Is that the justification of an invader?" Forbidden Fate sneered. "In the end, you''re the invader, bringing real suffering to the Divine and Demon Continents! It''s a pity these two young ones, human and demon, can''t see through it all. They think I''m the biggest threat. I am the one who truly loves thisnd..."

    He was referring to Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy.

    "Stop your nonsense. You may love thend, but you have no love for life," Yun Xiao said, gripping the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. Turning to the War Princess, he added, "Find a chance to drain his blood, refine him into Mortal Dust Devil Blood. You''ll ascend in power."

    "What..." The War Princess trembled, incredulous. She shook her head. "No! That''s demon and corpse blood. Do you know how foul it is?"

    What she craved was fresh human blood, the preference of the nobility in the Endless Netherworld.

    "Are you still concerned about taste at this time?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "Of course. Don''t push me!" The War Princess bit her lip.

    <em>SMACK! </em>Yun Xiao''s hand struck her face, leaving a startling handprint on her delicate cheek.

    "You!" The War Princess covered her face, shocked, her eyes reddening.

    "Don''t think you''re so important. The Endless Netherworld has plenty like you! If you won''t obey, others will. Don''t talk to me about dignity or taste. Do as you''re told, or this sword will turn you into nothing but bones," Yun Xiao said coldly.

    The War Princess stared at him, tears brimming in her eyes.

    "You''re a madman!" She trembled, looking at the mountain of flesh and blood, her stomach churning.

    "You better be one, too." Yun Xiao left her with those words and faced Forbidden Fate.

    That p stung, wiping away any flirtation that had been on the sword. For a moment, she had been proud of her beauty and form, thinking such assets would earn her some indulgence from Yun Xiao. But it seemed she had thought too much. The searing pain on her face made it clear; every word he had spoken to her before was no joke. Dignity or gloryshe couldn''t have both.

    "Mortal Dust Devil Blood..." She looked down, seeing the terrifying blood flowing within herhers, yet not hers. Her power depended on her obedience!

    Devils, inherently proud, viewed humans as delicacies and demons as livestock. As a princess of the Endless Netherworld, she inherently disdained all beings of both races, including Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy.

    She had even felt a smug pride, believing that no matter how formidable, these lower beings would instinctively crave the nobility of a female devil. That p shattered her dreams of devilish royalty! She dared not test whether Yun Xiao would really kill her. If that sword did strike, she wouldn''t even have a chance to regret.

    The power of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood had already captivated her! She no longer wanted to die. She wanted to live, return to the Endless Netherworld, and reim everything that was hers!

    "Even the most noble devil must bow to reality. So, I''ll give it my all!" The War Princess''s eyes reddened, the image of that white figure etched deeply in her heart.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>She transformed into a streak of blood light, following Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao didn''t look back, but he was satisfied with her sensibility.

    <em>HUM! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul trembled, pointing towards Forbidden Fate!

    Forbidden Fate, with his many eyes, watched them in bewilderment. What just happened? Yun Xiao had pped the War Princess. And the War Princess, tears in her eyes, covering her face in grievance? Like a wronged wife? Even for the all-seeing him, the scene was baffling...

    But Forbidden Fate had no time to ponder, as Yun Xiao, the War Princess, and the relentlessly tormenting Moon Fairy inside himhuman, devil, and demonwere already upon him!

    Yun Xiao, with Heaven Burial Sword Soul in hand, shed head-on with Forbidden Fate and his myriad corpse blood tendrils on the battlefield!

    Moon Fairy was within, War Princess by the side!

    Empowered by 40,000 Sword Hearts, Yun Xiao, backed by his Mid Saint Realm cultivation, had a killing power against Forbidden Fate surpassing even the War Princess.

    "Let''s end this in one strike!" Yun Xiao, eyes fixed on the Demon Emperor, furiously channeled the power of the 40,000 Sword Hearts, preparing to unleash all the ancestral strength in one devastating blow!

    With his own Primordial Void sacred power, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul whipped up a dark azure storm again!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>Wherever the storm passed, demons blocking the way were instantly reduced to blood and ashes!

    <em>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </em>Tentaclesshed out, only to be shredded into fragments by Yun Xiao''s sword!

    In terms of offensive power, Sword Cultivators were undoubtedly the strongest. They never sought bnce, only offense! His sword zed a trail of burning corpse blood!

    Where the Heaven Burial Sword Soul passed, Forbidden Fate''s remains were incinerated! With a sh of the sword, Yun Xiao was already face to face with Forbidden Fate!

    Inside Forbidden Fate, Moon Fairy, now numb to the stench of decay, as a Three-Tailed Demon Fox, tore countless bloody holes in him. Though not fatal, it caused immense difort!

    Forbidden Fate was enraged!

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM! </em>His body trembled, condensing myriad demon mists into one, a fierce rune emerging from his chest, shooting a beam of corpse blood light towards Yun Xiao!

    "Too slow!" Yun Xiao swerved his Sovereign Sword, effortlessly dodging the demonic rune with Fleeting Moon!

    Forbidden Fate''s strength was his undying nature, deadly to ordinary beings. But against Yun Xiao, it was merely a nuisance!

    "Ignorant boy!" Forbidden Fate sneered, his chest ripping open to form a massive gaping maw! Just like how he swallowed Moon Fairy, he opened his mouth to engulf Yun Xiao!

    This sight, seen by a few, sent shockwaves through the Heavenly Realm! The mouth was enormous! So big it blotted out the sky, leaving nowhere to hide! But did Yun Xiao really want to escape?

    "I''ve been waiting for you!" The moment Yun Xiao was swallowed, Moon Fairy burst through, creating a bloody path and crashing into him!

 Chapter 239: Forbidden Fate, Absorbed!

    Chapter 239: Forbidden Fate, Absorbed!

    Forbidden Fate thought Moon Fairy was going to join forces with him to first take down Yun Xiao. But in a twist of fate, the two collided, and Moon Fairy was no more!

    "What?" After the initial disbelief, Forbidden Fate was plunged into incredulity for the second time!

    <em>BOOM! </em>In the Creator Immortal''s body, the Divine Destion Physique fused perfectly with the mixed essence of human and demon, giving birth to a new kind of power.

    With this newfound force, Yun Xiao was not just one, but possessed the might of two different cultivation systems! Ignoring his Sword Heart, he was now so powerful that even a being at the Perfect Awakened Emperor Realm would quake in their boots. And he had burned through forty thousand Sword Hearts, all for a single, decisive strike!

    When Moon Fairy merged with him, a storm of sword energy erupted from Yun Xiao, his eyes sparking with a tempest of de fury!

    "KILL!" His thunderous cry of vengeance echoed even through the body of Forbidden Fate! "A billion Sword Cultivators of the past, the legacy of the Constetion ying Sword! Humanity''s supreme sword, here and now!"

    For the first time, Yun Xiao unleashed the ultimate Palm Sword of the Constetion ying SwordSpiral Gxy!

    <em>HUM! </em>As Forbidden Fate''s flesh surged towards him, Yun Xiao transformed into the Milky Way, unleashing countless piercing sword lights, like a celestial porcupine, causing a massive explosion!

    "Huh?!" Forbidden Fate''s demon heart quivered in fear! His newly formed head, still not fully shaped and gathering new mouths, suddenly let out agonized screams!

    <em>PUFF PUFF PUFF! </em>The sound of hundreds of swords piercing flesh echoed across the battlefield!

    Humans and demons alike watched in horror as thousands of sword lights burst forth from within the mountain of flesh and blood. Each sword light, carrying a storm of blue-ck me, ripped open gaping wounds in the flesh mountain!

    Each wound was a fiery abyss! Within them, the dark azure mes of Heaven Burial devoured half of the demon''s body in an instant, along with the sword lights!

    This strike was nothing short of legendary!

    With a swoosh, a white shadow pierced through Forbidden Fate''s head once more! Corpse blood filled the sky, and ghastly blue mes zed. Yet, he remained untainted, like an unparalleled sword deity, shining amidst thousands of demons.

    His hand wielded a sword, capable of piercing the heavens and the sun!

    "AHHHHHH!" Under the annihting power of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, most of Forbidden Fate''s body was fatally burning. This deathly force was potent enough to obliterate its very essence!

    "So-called immortality means nothing before the true deathly power of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul!" Yun Xiao dered, confident in his divine object born from the fusion of the Divine Pir and Heaven Burial Primordial Coffin.

    In his previous life, even the Creator Immortal didnt possess the Heaven Burial Sword Soul! The Ten Primordial Coffins were the foundation for surpassing his former self in this rebirth!

    And as for what the Demon Continent and the Prison Warden Primordial Coffin could fuse into, Yun Xiao was immensely curious.

    Heaven Burial and Prison Warden! With these two divine objects, surpassing those of his past life, Yun Xiao, the original, didn''t care even if he had to transfer the Will of Divine Destion and the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity out of himself!

    "Blood ve, it''s your turn now!" Yun Xiao, with his sword suppressing the screaming Forbidden Fate, suddenly turned to a dark shadowy figure.

    "Got it!" The War Princess rolled her eyes at him, fighting back the tempest in her stomach, and closed her seductive eyes. She wielded her blood fang whip to carve a path, plunging into the heart of Forbidden Fate, now engulfed in mes!

    At this moment, Forbidden Fate was too preupied to suppress her. Her fiery body waspletely swallowed by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood. The blood solidified into veins, fiercely piercing into Forbidden Fate''s heart, turning into numerous blood streams, quickly spreading throughout his body!

    <em>HUM! </em>The flesh and blood mountain trembled violently, erupting into a dense blood mist. This mist coalesced into an enormous demonic shadow, the very image of the Mortal Dust Devil!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The next moment, the blood not yet incinerated on Forbidden Fate''s body rushed towards the War Princess inside, like a torrent drawn inwards.

    This bizarre scene, happening inside Forbidden Fate, was naturally unseen by anyone else.

    "Yun Xiao!" War Princess bit her lip and angrily shouted his name, bracing herself for the onught of the putrid demonic blood.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Countless veins crashed into her body!

    "Huh?" The War Princess suddenly realized that the demonic, human, and corpse blood had already been processed by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, removing 99% of the impurities. Only 1% of the purest essence remained, merging into her delicate body. It wasn''t foul at all!

    "Alright then!" she couldn''t help but cover her face, still recovering from the pain on her cheeks, "That p was for nothing!"

    The more exhrated she felt, the more agonizing it was for Forbidden Fate! He was being burnt by Heaven Burial and drained by the devil at the same time! His flesh charred, its bloodlines stolen! All these were his foundations!

    Having always absorbed corpses, Forbidden Fate now felt like he was being skinned and deboned, stripped of everything For the undying behemoth, this was the truly lethal strategy! His core was being destroyed!

    "No! No!" The wails of 100 million mingled spirits echoed crazily over the flesh and blood mountain. This sound, unmatched in its misery,pelled all humans and demons to look over, pausing the battle in its tracks!

    Such was the magnitude of Forbidden Fate''s reaction, so utterly deste!

    "Who said this corpse demon was the monster? Yun Xiao, hes the real monster! And me, using just a part of this monster''s power, Im even more twisted than this corpse demon..." The War Princess trembled deeply, her face changing color.

    Forbidden Fate devoured the souls of two continents, while she devoured Forbidden Fate!

    The demon raised a foot, but the devil raised an inch higher!

    She never knew the Mortal Dust Devil Blood could be so terrifying until she tried it. It could forcefully strip and purify even the corpse demon''s blood. What blood in this world couldn''t she drink?

    "The body double and I, we both wield demonic and devilish powers. Yet, his original form cultivates the righteous path! He takes all the abnormalities for himself!" As she devoured Forbidden Fate, its fate seemed like a bloody warning to her!

    The flesh and blood mountain burnt, withered, and dried up. The forcibly fused demon corpses burst open, consumed by the dark azure mes. Countless eyes, mouths, tongues, hairs, bones, and organs rapidly turned to ash, while millions of streams of fresh blood surged towards the War Princess.

    During this process, the 100 million amalgamated screams of Forbidden Fate, at their most harrowing, drowned out all other sounds on the battlefield. And then, the cries became mournful, pained, diminishing...

    Humans and demons alike witnessed it, their eyes and ears filled with the spectacle.

    <em>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </em>The fierce dark azure mes grew more intense, eventually engulfing the mountain of flesh and blood and forming a gigantic fireball. It released dark smoke, foul and stinking, continuously spiraling up to the sky, morphing into evenrger dark clouds.

    "Demon Demon Continent, Demon Continent! Mynd Ughhhh!" The mournful wails of tormented spirits permeated the world, touching the hearts of countless demons with profound sorrow.

    "Has the Forbidden Fate Demon Emperor perished?" Millions of demons, utterly stopped in their tracks, turned to gaze at the disintegrating mountain of flesh, their eyes dimming in utter disbelief. The fiery rage and bloodlust of moments ago seemed to turn to ash, their minds scattering in disarray.

 Chapter 240: Sword God, Gu Baiyi

    Chapter 240: Sword God, Gu Baiyi

    "Demons, retreat to the Demon Continent, preserve our lineage..." This final, sombermand echoed across the sky.

    Some demons, learning of the death of the four Demon Emperors and the 108 Demon Saints, and with Forbidden Fate out of control, had already lost their will to fight and wished to leave. Others, driven by hatred and faith in Forbidden Fate, believed he would lead the Demon Continent to conquer the Heavenly Realm and rule the Divine Continent.

    But as Forbidden Fate vanished between heaven and earth, their faith crumbled, and their spirit dissipated! And the gate of the Heavenly Realm, the Primordial Array, remained impregnable...

    The most awe-inspiring and fearful figure for them was Yun Xiao! Standing above the burnt remnants of the flesh mountain, sword in hand, his white robes fluttering, he was a nightmare incarnate to the demons.

    "Yun Xiao!!" Inside the Heavenly Realm, tens of millions witnessed this scene, erupting into the most fervent cheers in history.

    "We didnt even need Her Highness to take action. Nor did we even need the Primordial Array!"

    Already confident, and now victorious like this, the centuries of human frustration were purged in a single moment!

    The War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm had just endedst night, and now, with the ying of the five Demon Emperors by day, the victory of the humans of the Divine Continent was secured!

    Events in mere hours changed the history of the humans of the Divine Continent!

    Unaware of the absence of the Divine Dawn Empress, the inessibility of the Primordial Array, they could not fathom how Yun Xiao had maneuvered through these challenges to carve out this moment of unparalleled glory!

    But they still revered Yun Xiao! A sword prodigy who had been in the Heavenly Realm for just a few days, the husband of the Divine Dawn Empress! Could you believe it? It hadn''t even been a month since he started his celestial ascent in the Azure Spirit Sect.

    The uproar in the Heavenly Realm would surely again crush the demoralized demon forces! Those demons stood stunned, possessing the strength of a legion. Yet, they seemed to have lost their souls, standing bewildered.

    "Continue the bloodbath in the Heavenly Realm?"

    "Our elite forces are intact. If we press on, we can break through the gate of the Heavenly Realm and ughter the humans! A couple of strong ones can''t stop us!"

    "But there''s the threat of the Primordial Array and the other four Immortal Empires! Dragging this out, neither humans nor demons will end well."

    "The Demon Emperormanded us to return to the Demon Continent, to preserve our lineage"

    The already chaotic demon army was now even more disordered! And at this moment, the mountain of fleshpletely vanished, leaving nothing but dense smoke in the sky.

    Suddenly, a voice whispered to the strongest demons, just below the Demon Saints.

    "I am not so easily defeated; merely gravely weakened and in need of rest. Return to the Demon Continent at once, and await the day of our resurgence!" This voice was no longer a mix of countless demonic tones, but had be pure and lonely, like the original Forbidden Fate!

    Hearing this, the dull eyes of the demons finally lit up. There was still a chance for the Demon Continent!

    "Retreat!!" It started with them, the message trickling downyer byyer.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As a portion of the demon cloud detached from the group, heading back towards the Demon Continent, the resolve of the demon army crumbled again.

    "Admit defeat! Regroup and rise again!"

    "This battle isn''t over yet!"

    The demons howled, however frustrated and pained, they had to ept this reality.

    A great battle unfinished, the Demon Continent''s strongest and brightest all in, leaving only the mightiest demon army, now bereft of its fighting spirit. Yun Xiao actually wanted to pursue and annihte them! But, reality wouldn''t allow it.

    The Heavenly Realm had only 30 millionbat-ready cultivators, half of whom weren''t up to par. How could they venture out for a skirmish?

    The fate of the Violet Sky Immortal Army was a cautionary tale. And for the four Immortal Empires to mobilize, it would take at least a day!

    The demon army''s retreat in defeat was already the best oue for the beings of the Heavenly Realm.

    As for the future As long as Yun Xiao had enough time, what was there to fear about the future? He stood in the wind, watching the demon army in disarray, retreating in disheveled defeat, his gaze stern and deadly.

    "You''re saying that corpse demon isn''t dead?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "Indeed, it''s tough to kill. As long as the resentment persists, it lives. But, reduced to this state, it''s unlikely to cause trouble any time soon," Blue Star exined.

    "The problem is, it saw me merge with my body double. If it goes around bbering, this double of mine bes useless," Yun Xiao said.

    "There''s no helping it! But who would it talk to, really? The devils? With their princess in your grasp, whatever it says is futile. As for the Eternal Sword Prison, well, that depends." Blue Star chuckled.

    "With Forbidden Fate temporarily dealt with, the people of the Heavenly Realm and the Divine Continent can breathe easy for now. With Divine Dawn absent, I must fulfill her mission. Next, I''ll reorganize the Six Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent, uniting the people as one. This way, even in terms of military strength, the Divine Continent won''t fear the Demon Continent."

    The first step was to eliminate the false demons in the Divine Continent! Second was theplete eradication of demon nests like the Northern Wastnds and the Great Wastnd!

    "With Violet Sky having no emperor, and the other four Immortal Empires inclined to follow Divine Dawn''s path, we could establish a new nation with the Heavenly Realm as its capital, reviving the ancient Immortal Empire..."

    These were all pressing matters. Why couldn''t the four Immortal Empires deploy their troops? Too many demon spies within! The traitors had to be eradicated for the Divine Continent''s future!

    "Wait, you, a flying Sword Immortal, are going back to your old job as an Emperor?" Blue Star asked, dumbfounded.

    Yun Xiao shook his head and smiled. "You''re overthinking it. I''ll leave it to Divine Dawn''s father; I just need to point them in the right direction."

    If Yun Xiao had to handle everything himself, he''d be overwhelmed. His rebirth and cultivation had changed him; he was no longer suited for such tasks.

    "Forbidden Fate isn''t dead yet! The threat of the Demon Continent remains! Right now, I have more pressing matters..."

    Yun Xiao gazed in the direction of the retreating demon army, raising his Sword Soul, his voice cold, "With the power of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, I must im thend of the Demon Continent!"

    "The Endless Netherworld and the Eternal Sword Prison are variables. They might pose resistance," Blue Star pointed out.

    "The Endless Netherworld is uncertain, but the Eternal Sword Prison is likely to be an obstacle," Yun Xiao looked towards the Heavenly Realm, a slight smirk on his lips, "He''sing!"

    "Showing up only after the fight, that''s never a good sign," Blue Star cackled. No sooner had the words left his mouth than a massive white sword light pierced the sky, transforming into a middle-aged man in white, appearing before Yun Xiao! He wore a gentle smile, exuded an air of a sage, quite detached from worldly concerns.

    "May I ask who the elder is?" Yun Xiao asked respectfully.

    "Eternal Sword Prison, Sword God Gu Baiyi," the man in white replied with an easy smile, eyeing the Sword Soul in Yun Xiao''s hand. "I''m quite familiar with those four Sword Rings on it."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao lifted the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, saying cheerfully, "A girl tried to kill me out of the blue. I had no choice but to retaliate and took her Sword Rings. She wouldn''t happen to be your daughter, would she?"

    "Not a daughter, merely a disciple," Gu Baiyi rified.

    Yun Xiao sighed in relief. "Well, that''s a relief!"

    "A relief?" Gu Baiyi chuckled.

    "Indeed," Yun Xiao affirmed earnestly.

    "Why so?"

    "Because I can take her ce as your disciple. By recing one waste with a genius, you won''t have suffered the loss of a disciple."

 Chapter 241: Dao Heart! Devil Heart!

    Chapter 241: Dao Heart! Devil Heart!

    "Disciple?" Gu Baiyi''s eyes, filled with curiosity,nded on Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul adorned with five Sword Rings. Suddenly, he burst intoughter. "Yun Xiao, in my years roaming the Nine Hells, I''ve seldom met someone as straightforward and simple as you," he dered with amusement.

    "Then, Sword God, would you grant this junior a chance?" Yun Xiao asked earnestly.

    Gu Baiyi didn''t answer directly but slowly said, "I was supposed to take a disciple to the Sword Ruins for the Sword Baptism Ceremonya grand event in the Eternal Sword Prison. It''s where all the new generation of sword prodigies show their talents... And you? You killed such a beautiful girl just like that. How am I to exin this to my fellow Sword Cultivators?"

    "Then, there''s no choice but to do my utmost to bring honor to my master at the Sword Baptism Ceremony," Yun Xiao replied seriously. "May I ask, Master, when do we leave for the Eternal Sword Prison?"

    Gu Baiyi looked at him for a long while. Finally, with a slight smile, he said, "We can leave now.

    "But before we leave, we need to catch a little devil," Gu Baiyi said, his gaze sweeping towards the blood mist. "Just now, I think I saw the War Princess. She''s probably pretending to cooperate with you, nning to kill the demons and then you."

    "I had the same concern, but now with Master here, everything will be fine," Yun Xiao said.

    One advantage of this bloody battlefield was that all the little detailslike Yun Xiao''s p to the War Princess and his fusion with Moon Fairywere hidden by the endless demon clouds.

    "Demons and devils! Only our human Sword Cultivators uphold the banner of justice! Coborating with them only brings disaster. Let me help you cleanse the world and exterminate these evils!" Gu Baiyi eximed, his white robes billowing as he approached the blood mist.

    In fact, he had been watching this blood mist all along!

    "Who is this?" the Supreme Marshal, sensing victory at the gate of the Heavenly Realm, asked in a curious tone.

    "Such a mighty Sword Cultivator!" Sword Saint Sun''s eyes zed with admiration and respect. "I heard that the cmity in the Demon Continent opened some world barriers, leading to this horde of devils! This Sword Cultivator, he might be from another world!"

    "Friend or foe?" the Supreme Marshal asked, frowning.

    "Sword Cultivators usually stand with humanity, so he''s probably a friend..." Sword Saint Sun mused instinctively.

    "Yun Xiao and that female devil, they must be in cahoots. Now that the Demon Continent''s army is temporarily out of danger, will they settle their differences?" The Supreme Marshal, who had been following Yun Xiao''smands, was full of doubts about the details.

    Meanwhile, many powerful beings in the Heavenly Realm turned their gaze to the blood mist, where the female devil was likely hiding.

    Gu Baiyi, standing with his hands behind his back, floated in mid-air like a grandmaster. Before him, the blood mist rapidly condensed towards the center, forming a blood cocoon.

    "Is that... a Dao Heart?!" Gu Baiyi''s expression shifted subtly. "No, it''s a Devil Heart!" he corrected himself as the blood cocoon violently split open, revealing a ravishing young woman, her entire being drenched in red.

    She was shrouded in dense blood mist, with hundreds of blood dragons, formed from the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, coiling around her slender waist, legs, arms, and neck, emitting earth-shattering draconic roars.

    Visibly, her charm and beauty ascended to a new level, her fiery and enchanting nature ignited by the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, growing ever more captivating. And those dark red eyes of hers were fixed on Gu Baiyi.

    "Quite unexpected," Gu Baiyi said with a cold smile. "Who would''ve thought that the infamous disgraced princess of the Endless Netherworld would transcend the first dao tribtion here in this world''s fold? Now, you''veprehended a Devil Heart and stepped into a new realm of devil cultivation!"

    One-third of the Demon Continent''s spirits, along with the blood of the Violet Sky Immortal Army and parts of the demon army, converged upon her, now entirely fueling her ascent.

    During the conversation between Yun Xiao and Gu Baiyi, it was actually Yun Xiao himself who had grasped the Mortal Dust Devil Heart, breaking through to the Awakened Emperor Realm. The Dragon Spring, Divine Sea, Origin Core, Sovereign Dragon, Devil Meridian, Wind Fire Tribtion, Devil Saint, and Awakened Emperor Realms were collectively known as the Eight Mortal Realm. Beyond that was the Devil Heart Realm!

    In contrast, on the path of a human cultivator, this realm was known as the Dao Heart Realm. From that point, the Dao Heart took form, no longer an abstract concept but a real manifestation of the cultivator''s will, resonating with the universe. With the Dao Heart, one could replicate aw of the Dao! From Emperor to Dao Heart, it was a fundamental metamorphosis, signifying the cultivator''s departure from the mundane and pursuit of the immortal path.

    On a cultivation level, the War Princess was also Yun Xiao''s body double. She did nothing buty in that blood cocoon, watching Yun Xiao cultivate using her bloodline. This understanding of the Devil Heart also provided invaluable experience for her and Moon Fairy to transcend the Eight Mortal Realms in the future.

    "Gu Baiyi, are you scared?" the War Princess asked coldly.

    The man in white chuckled at her words, responding icily, "When Iprehended the Dao Heart, you were still but a milk-breathed girl."

    "Is that so? I might have practiced for a few decades less, but it''s enough to kill you." The War Princess''s eyes suddenly zed with a deadly devilish intent! Sheunched an attack on Gu Baiyi! Yes, she acted on every word, everymand of Yun Xiao. This offensive move was ordered by Yun Xiao!

    "Master, don''t let her escape!" Yun Xiao stepped back to avoid the sh of these transcendental powers.

    "Ha ha..." Gu Baiyi, looking at the War Princess, wore an expression full of amusement. "A cornered dog jumps over a wall?"

    Witnessing the disgraced princess with her world-shaking beauty and devilish figure, Gu Baiyi, as a connoisseur, knew she was a real gem. The kind that could make any male, be they human, devil, or demon, feel like they were soaring in the clouds.

    In the Endless Netherworld, he had no particr desires, but here, in a hidden paradise where calls to heaven and earth went unanswered, he was free to act as he pleased. His decision to appear at this moment was driven by not wanting to lose sight of the War Princess again.

    So, with the defeat of Forbidden Fate, the mes of war reignited outside the Heavenly Realm!

    Millions of human cultivators didn''t leave; instead, they turned into spectators.

    None knew the backgrounds of thesebatants; from afar, they saw a righteous Sword Cultivator on one side and a blood devil on the other, whose face was obscured... Naturally, they rooted for the Sword Cultivator!

    And they observed Yun Xiao showing great respect to this Sword Cultivator.

    "This person must be Yun Xiao''s master!"

    "How could Yun Xiao be such a prodigy? It turns out his true origin isn''t from the lower realms. He''s a visitor from beyond!"

    Inside the Heavenly Realm, the crowd was abuzz with excitement and discussion.

    "Let''s see how she performs. If things don''t go well, you guys can step in," Yun Xiao said to the small ck beast in his arms.

    "Got it," Blue Star replied, peeking out from his embrace, his eyes coldly fixed on Gu Baiyi.

    Now in control of the Heavenly Realm''s treasury, Yun Xiao certainly wasn''t short on resources. So, they were in top form. Yun Xiao had taken care of Forbidden Fate without needing their intervention.

    In such a public setting, with no fog of war, Yun Xiao tried to avoid using either the ancient bronze coffin or the ck-scaled fierce beast.

    "The Eight Mortal Realms! Break through and enter the dao! The Mortal Dust Devil Heart, based on the human world and emotions, passing through the tribtions of the mortal world, rising from the depths, aligns well with my state of mind," Yun Xiao mused.

    This was why forming the Devil Heart had been a piece of cake for him!

    "The power of a Dao..."

    Whether it was the Dao Heart, Demon Heart, or Devil Heart, what they essentially replicated was the power of heaven and earth! Daows, originating from the Creator Immortal.

    The Mortal Dust, epassing life and death, suffering, prosperity, and the seven emotions and six desires of the Dao Realm, formed the six daow pirs. It was the core framework supporting countless principles, the heart of the Mortal Dust Devil''s intentions. But once, it was a part of the Creator Immortal.

    At this moment, as the War Princess fought fiercely, Yun Xiao was on the sidelines,prehending the Mortal Dust Devil Heart, replicating the power of the Mortal Dust daows, and enhancing the Mortal Dust Devil Blood. Every attack from the War Princess felt like transcending a world!

    This is what made a top ranking devil!

    Her Nine-Tiered Bloodline and Blood Spirit Dragon Seed, was fully awakened, undergoing a heaven-defying transformation into a formidable blood dragon war devil in an instant!

    Facing her, Gu Baiyi shed his disdain, his eyes brimming with surging sword light! <em> HUM! </em>His Sword Soul was finally revealeda total of 1001yers of Sword Aura and five Sword Rings!

    This setup was almost identical to that of Yun Xiao! That meant that Yun Xiao had in so many demons that his Sword Aura wasparable to an elder of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    Five Sword Rings also indicated that Gu Baiyi''s Sword Soul was in the ninth or tenth grade, at least two grades higher than Gxy grade.

    "Late Dao Heart Realm with 1001yers of Sword Aura! With such strength, he could easily annihte everything outside of Forbidden Fate. Yet, he arrived in the Heavenly Realm long ago and never showed up or lent a hand..." Yun Xiao mused. As a straightforward man, he would have simply obliterated the hordes of demons with that kind of power.

    Clearly, Gu Baiyi belonged to a different ilk. How could one work together when their paths were so different? He was even eyeing the War Princess with a lecherous gaze Such a Sword Cultivator, if he didn''t make a move, Yun Xiao himself would strike first!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The War Princess, enveloped in Mortal Dust Devil Blood, had eyes zing with bloodlight. Clutching her magic whip, Blood Fang, in one hand and her other hand transforming into a dragon w, she fiercely pressed down. A river of devil blood coalesced into Blood Dragon Breath. Nine massive blood dragons, almost a thousand meters long, surged forth, thunderously charging at Gu Baiyi!

    She couldn''t have pushed the Blood Dragon Breath to this extent on her own. It was Yun Xiao, after hearing the origin of this blood art from her, who casually improved it. As she attacked, her Devil Heart stirred the forces of the Mortal Dust daows of the world!

    This power was omnipresent!

    It gathered the seven emotions and six desires of all beings, absorbing the anger of the Heavenly Realm''s popce, their hatred for demons, the longing to protect their homes, and their love for their children...

    All these were sources of power for the Mortal Dust Devil Heart!

    The stronger the seven emotions and six desires of the Dao Realm, the stronger the Mortal Dust Devil!

    This power, seemingly under the War Princess''s control, actually originated from Yun Xiao.

    <em>BOOM BOOM BOOM!</em>

    "She does have some skill." Gu Baiyi''s brow furrowed! As soon as he acted, he sensed something was amiss! How could she, newly ascended to the Devil Heart Realm, be this powerful?

    Gu Baiyi''s robe fluttered without wind as he raised his hand to unleash a Flying Sword! The Flying Sword carried five types of demon magic, each stemming from the Demon Heart Sword Rings, and each magic infused with the power of the Demon Heart daows!

    In terms of Sword Ring quality, Gu Baiyi undoubtedly surpassed Yun Xiao.

    These five demon magics twined around the silver Flying Sword, which instantly transformed into a glimmering, crystalline light. It flickered brilliantly, shifting dozens of times in midair with exquisite swordy, piercing through the nine blood dragons to confront the War Princess head-on!

    No defense, just offense! This was indeed the style of a Sword Cultivator!

    "Ha, calling himself the Sword God, what a shameless old man!" Gu Baiyi might have deceived Yun Xiao, but he couldn''t fool the War Princess. In her eyes burned a fierce conviction, her confidence soaring. How could lying there, growing stronger, not be exhrating?

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Her palm quivered, and Blood Fang morphed into a blood vortex, rapidly entwining around the attacking Flying Sword! This seemingly simple action required immense physical strength to match the sword''s lethal speed.

    However, restraining it was one thing; suppressing it was another!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The blood whip coiled like a dragon around the Flying Sword, sending sparks flying as the sword thrust forward explosively!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Just as the Flying Sword was about to pierce the War Princess''s abdomen, she stretched out her other hand and incredibly stopped the sword in its tracks! Even though she was sted back several hundred meters, the fact that the Flying Sword hadn''t injured her in the slightest was undeniable!

    This meant that in this head-to-head sh, Gu Baiyi''s attack had failed!

    "How could this disgraced princess possibly..." Gu Baiyi''s face contorted in shock! His Flying Sword assault was thwarted. The next instant, the nine blood dragons bore down on him. The War Princess hadn''t faltered. So, naturally, the Blood Dragon Breaths didn''t dissipate!

    Gu Baiyi swiftly retracted his sword. The Flying Sword, like a behemoth, broke free from the entanglement of Blood Fang. It returned to him in a sh, morphing into a three-foot silver sword.

    The swiftness of a Sword Cultivator''s attack was vividly demonstrated in this scene.

    Yun Xiao, observing from afar, couldn''t help but admire, knowing he was far from Gu Baiyi''s match. But what of it? The War Princess''s strength was his strength too!

    "Sweeping Sword!" Gu Baiyi, gripping the silver sword, soared in his white robe and suddenly swept it horizontally!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A dazzling silver sword light exploded, forming a silver moon of sword energy. It burst open, its storm and silver sword energy piercing through the nine blood dragons!

    This strike, reminiscent of Spiral Gxy from the Constetion ying Sword, was clearly more powerful.

    Yun Xiao, even at a distance, was hit by a stray silver sword light. He had no choice but to draw out his Heaven Burial Sword Soul and sh fiercely! <em>BANG! </em>With this sh, he staggered back a hundred meters, his blood and qi in turmoil!

    This was just one strand of sword energy, and Gu Baiyi''s silver moon sword had hundreds! There was no helping it; Yun Xiao was two major realms below, and there was also a difference in daows!

    Yet, this sweeping sword technique failed topletely obliterate the War Princess'' Dragon Breath!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Though the blood dragons shattered, the storm of Mortal Dust Devil Blood power still battered Gu Baiyi. He could only rapidly deploy two magic shields, but they too were obliterated!

    "What''s wrong? How has her Devil Heart Dao empowered her with such lethal force? What kind of devil power is this?" Gu Baiyi, who had battled devils countless times, had never seen anything like this, naturally stirring fresh terror in his heart.

    The growth of a Dao Heart was incredibly difficult!

    It took him ten arduous years to elevate his Dao Heart after stepping into the Dao Heart Realm. Yet, the power of the daows he invoked paled inparison to the War Princess.

    In other words, the War Princess, at the Early Devil Heart Realm, was overpowering Gu Baiyi, who was at the Late Dao Heart Realm, purely in terms of strength!

 Chapter 242: All Invaders Must Die!

    Chapter 242: All Invaders Must Die!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Blood Sacrifice Dragon Breath shattered Gu Baiyi''s magic shield. In a desperate move, Gu Baiyi swung his sword to protect himself. Still, he was struck by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, plunging him into a mist of blood!

    The devilish thoughts invaded his body, and the daows within the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, much like Moon Fairy''s illusions, stirred up his emotions and desires. Gu Baiyi''s eyes turned blood-red, and he fell into a state of frenzy and chaos, his blood flowing in reverse!

    This battle, from the beginning, was beyond hisprehension.

    "So the title of disgraced princess was a ruse to hide her true strength!" Gu Baiyi realized, his heart torn.

    "You''ve realized toote!" With a swish of blood mist, the fiery figure of the War Princess suddenly appeared before Gu Baiyi! To her, his look of disbelief was immensely satisfying! This was the thrill of turning the tables!

    "Now, let''s see you act!" The War Princess sneered, thrusting out her palm.

    <em>Blood Demon Dragon Seal!</em>

    This blood art, which also incorporated the strength of her fleshly body, was more potent than Blood Sacrifice Dragon Breath. The War Princess had only grasped the concept of the technique before, never mastering it. But now, thanks to the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in her heart, she miraculously performed it without breaking a sweat!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Her palm, fuelled by her Mortal Dust Devil Blood, conjured countless blood dragons, their roar shaking the Heavenly Realm, causing countless human cultivators to tremble!

    "It''s over!" Gu Baiyi and millions of human cultivators'' faces changed drastically!

    With one palm and one seal, the War Princess transformed into a blood dragon, striking at Gu Baiyi''s chest!

    "NO!" Gu Baiyi screamed, fighting off the invasion of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, thrusting his sword with all his might! He aimed not to defend but to strike at the War Princess''s throat, intent on a mutual demise, forcing her to retreat for self-preservation!

    "If I die, you die with me!" Gu Baiyiughed coldly, his face twisted in madness.

    "Heh..." The War Princess paid him no heed; her Blood Demon Dragon Seal struck Gu Baiyi''s chest directly!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Gu Baiyi''s chest caved in, his back exploding into a mist of blood, only to be devoured by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood!

    The Blood Demon Dragon''s roar unleashed a towering mist of blood, obscuring the battlefield. To onlookers, the details were lost in the crimson haze; all they knew was that Gu Baiyi was being suppressed.

    "You''ll die too!" Gu Baiyi''s eyes glinted ferociously as he gathered all his strength for one final sword strike.

    <em>HUM! </em>Suddenly, an azure Flying Sword appeared from the side, striking Gu Baiyi''s sword tip with a fierce blow!

    Though not overwhelmingly powerful for Gu Baiyi, this collision at such a critical moment proved fatal. His final strike veered ever so slightly, missing the War Princess''s neck by a hair''s breadth.

    And so, in this bid for mutual destruction, the only one destroyed was Gu Baiyi himself. He spat out blood, his eyes trembling as if sinking into a deep, drowning sea.

    "Yun Xiao!" As his blood surged towards the War Princess, Gu Baiyi''s eyes zed with fury, turning towards the young man in white. "You, a Sword Cultivator, dare to help a devil y your own kind!"

    "Stop pretending, you knew all along about my deep connection with her," Yun Xiao replied coolly, clutching his returning Heaven Burial Sword Soul. "Even if we went to the Eternal Sword Prison together, you''d scheme against me. I''ve been through this plot once; repeating the same story is dull. So, I decided to eliminate you on sight, saving myself some tedious life experiences."

    ".." Gu Baiyi fell silent. Indeed, he had known in the underground pce about Yun Xiao''s deep connection with the War Princess. He nned to capture her first, then lure Yun Xiao back to the Eternal Sword Prison, test his talents, and use him. But never in his wildest dreams did he expect to be taken down by this pair on the spot!

    "Yun Xiao..." Gu Baiyi wanted to curse, something like ''You dance with devils, you won''t die well,'' especially since others from the Eternal Sword Prison would soon arrive. But such mindless outbursts would only hasten his demise. So, he changed tack. "You misunderstand me. There may be a misunderstanding between us. I am willing to coborate!"

    "Spread the blood mist a bit more!" Yun Xiao rushed forward towards Gu Baiyi and then instructed the War Princess. Sheplied.

    "You!" The obedient War Princess struck Gu Baiyi like lightning. Was Yun Xiao the leader? He couldmand this monstrous, defiant princess?

    "Senior, the Demon and Divine Continents are my turf. I don''t care who''s behind you; anyone who invades here dies!"

    Yun Xiao, having spoken, swung his Heaven Burial Sword Soul in a decisive sh.

    <em>THUD! </em>Gu Baiyi''s eyes widened as his head hit the ground.

    Yun Xiao stabbed his sword into Gu Baiyi''s sword bone, absorbing his Sword Soul.

    The War Princess watched, her heart trembling despite her strength. She saw Yun Xiao''s Sword Aurayers increase to 1100! Then, she saw him slip the new five Demon Heart Sword Rings onto his own Sword Soul.

    "Aren''t you afraid the people from Eternal Sword Prison will recognize you by these Sword Rings?" the War Princess asked, dumbfounded.

    "This time it''s different," Yun Xiao said, pocketing Gu Baiyi''s loot. His eyes sparkled as he instructed, "Clear the blood mist now, and remember to chase after me."

    "Huh?" The War Princess was startled.

    Just as she cleared the mist, Yun Xiao embraced Gu Baiyi''s corpse, crying out, "Master!"

    The cultivators of the Heavenly Realm finally saw the scene clearly, shocked.

    "Shameless devil, in this life, I will never coexist with you!" Yun Xiao red at the War Princess, then turned and flew away on his Sovereign Sword.

    "Don''t go!" The War Princess paused, then furiously chased after him. And so, a man and a devil disappeared from the public eye.

    Leaving behind Gu Baiyi''s lifeless body, it crashed against the gate of the Heavenly Realm, shattering to pieces.

    Millions of human cultivators were stunned.

    "What just happened?" Zhao Xuanjian gaped.

    "Let me sort this out," the Supreme Marshal said, his mind in a whirl. "Yun Xiao and the devil teamed up. The devil, from another world, wanted to profit from the conflict between humans and demons. After the demons fled, the devil and Yun Xiao had to settle their score. Yun Xiao had a master to back him up, but to think, even his master was killed by the devil. So, he had to flee..."

    Everyone looked grim.

    "Demons gone, devils arrive! This she-devil is too strong!" Sword Saint Sun, gazing at Gu Baiyi''s bloodstains, shook his head in sorrow. "The guardian Sword God is dead! Our human race faces great hardship. What do we do now?"

    The crowd was downcast.

    The Supreme Marshal took a deep breath, "We keep guarding. Then, we can only pray that Yun Xiao survives."

    Could he survive when even Gu Baiyi fell to the devil? Everyone was distressed.

    "It''s okay, we still have the Empress, and the Primordial Array..." The Supreme Marshal reassured. Though, his mind was a mess. "Damn, why do I feel like something''s off?"

    What exactly happened today?

    Above the clouds, Yun Xiao soared through the skies on his Sovereign Sword!

    The War Princess stood on the sword, dutifully supporting his waist, her head slightly bowed. She was both entranced by her newfound terrifying power and in awe of Yun Xiao''s imposing presence. To her, this man was a capricious monster.

    "So, you''re saying the Demon Continent might be the fabled Heavenly Land from your tales? Whoever controls it could dominate the Nine Hells?" Yun Xiao asked, gazing at the cold, violetnd ahead.

    "It''s just a guess, but it''s certainly a possibility," the War Princess replied.

    "This Demon Continent is mine for the taking... let them alle and try," Yun Xiao''s eyes gleamed coldly.

    "Why cling to thisnd when it''s useless to you? You''re just one man. Why not give it to me, the Endless Netherworld...?" The War Princess started to say but stopped abruptly, meeting Yun Xiao''s icy stare. She quickly lowered her head, correcting herself, "Never mind, it''s all yours. Whoever tries to take it, dies."

    Yun Xiao, satisfied,manded gravely, "We split up. You head to the entrance of the Endless Netherworld, and I''ll find the entrance to the Eternal Sword Prison. Follow my orders from here on."

    "Right!" The War Princess looked at him, slightly worried. "The next wave of attackers will be stronger than you, with more advanced cultivation. Are you sure you want to go alone? Don''t you need my protection?"

    "Go with you? You''re supposed to be my sworn enemy. Don''t mess up the act. A great viiness needs to maintain their style, understand?" Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Style?" The War Princess was bewildered in the wind.

    As the two were speaking, they reached the Demon Continent. It was Yun Xiao''s first time setting foot on this vastnd. Inside the ancient bronze coffin within him, the Prison Warden Primordial Coffin trembled violently. Even the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand felt a chilling sensation, as if facing a formidable enemy.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Moon Fairy emerged from Yun Xiao''s body and, without a word, sped away.

    "What''s your body double up to?" the War Princess asked.

    "He''s seizing the opportunity to control as much of the Demon Continent as possible," Yun Xiao said nonchntly. Moreover, with Moon Fairy''s essence in him, he bore the trace of a demon, making it risky for him to meet the Sword Cultivators of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    Yun Xiao, able tomunicate with the War Princess through the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, wasted no more words. He swiftly rode his Sovereign Sword through the skies of the Demon Continent, searching for the entrance to the Eternal Sword Prison.

    Fortune appeared to smile on him. Half a dayter, Yun Xiao came across a spatial vortex from the damaged world barrier, unmistakably the entrance he sought. He lingered at the entrance, steadying his emotions.

    Just then, several sword lights pierced through the portal, transforming into figures wreathed in sword energy,nding right before Yun Xiao!

    "Yun Xiao, disciple of Gu Baiyi, greets the elders!" Yun Xiao approached them, his eyes already rubbed red.

    "A disciple of Gu Baiyi?" A white-browed elder gave Yun Xiao a curious nce. "I''ve never heard of him taking a male disciple."

    Not taking male disciples? Indeed, Gu Baiyi was no saint!

    Yun Xiao calmly exined, "Elders, I am a native of thisnd. Master made an exception for me because I could hang five Sword Rings on my sword. But..." His voice trailed off,ced with sorrow.

    "But what?" the elder with white brows inquired. Five Sword Rings? His gaze shifted, now filled with admiration.

    "But half a day ago, Master fell in battle against a devil of the Endless Netherworld. He perished in front of everyone!" Yun Xiao said, distressed.

    "What!" The figures, each exuding a terrifying presence, changed their expressions in shock.

    "The devils from the Endless Netherworld have entered too?"

    "They must have recognized the Heavenly Land!"

    The white-browed elder''s eyes hardened, then asked Yun Xiao, "Are you certain Gu Baiyi is dead?"

    "Absolutely," Yun Xiao affirmed, drawing his Sword Soul and pointing to the five Sword Rings. "Before his death, Master escaped to my side and personally passed these five Sword Rings onto me..."

    The elder sighed deeply, epting this grim reality.

    "It seems he had high hopes for you." The elder patted Yun Xiao''s shoulder. "Since he entrusted you with something so precious, we hope you''ll rise to the asion. You''ll join us from now on. We are new here and will need you to guide us through this realm."

    "For the lineage of Sword Cultivators, I shall spare no effort!" Yun Xiao dered.

    "Good!" The elder chuckled coldly. "Devils, is it? They dare to challenge the might of our flourishing Sword Dao. They''re on a path to their own destruction!"

    Yun Xiao nodded, "Indeed, a path to their own destruction."

 Chapter 243: In This Life, The Heavens are Aiding Me!

    Chapter 243: In This Life, The Heavens are Aiding Me!

    Next up, Yun Xiao gave a brief rundown to the guests from the Eternal Sword Prison about the state of affairs in the Divine and Demon Continents. This, of course, included the recent great war between the two continents and the meddling of the devils in it.

    Yun Xiao didn''t spill all the beans, though. Instead, he painted a picture in his favor, depicting the demons and devils as vile and brutal creatures. He portrayed Gu Baiyi and the Sword Cultivators from the Eternal Sword Prison standing before him as saviors of the world.

    "The Endless Netherworld and the Eternal Sword Prison both have their eyes on the Demon Continent. But I''m nowhere near strong enough to stand against them" Yun Xiao mused. "The only chance I have is to fuel their hatred for each other, let them fight tooth and nail, and then seize my moment. That way, the humans of the Divine Continent can stay out of the fray."

    Yun Xiao was crystal clear about this. If the foreign Sword Cultivators and devils teamed up, both humans and demons would be at a severe disadvantage.

    A legend from the heavens had indeed put both continents in peril. But the irony was, whether it was the opening of the Endless Netherworld portal or the gateway to the Eternal Sword Prison, both stemmed from the Great Merciful Tribtion triggered by him. So, was he a wild card or a savior?

    Yun Xiao didn''t have the luxury to ponder such fateful questions. He knew one thing for surehe had to take responsibility.

    "In the end, what I''m really short on is time!" Yun Xiao gritted his teeth. No sooner had he thwarted a dire threat than the foreign Sword Cultivators and devils showed up! The pace was so relentless that Yun Xiao barely had a moment to catch his breath.

    "Yun Xiao, you led the human army and ughtered over 10 million demons yourself? No wonder you could build 1,000yers of Sword Aura even in the folds of the Nine Hells." The white-browed sword cultivator listened to Yun Xiao''s summary and gained even more respect for the young man. "Now I see why Gu Baiyi made an exception to take in a male disciple. With your talent in swordsmanship, you''d shine even in the Sword Ruins."

    "Beyond your innate talent, it''s downright astonishing how a young boy like you had the bravery to lead your people against the demons." The other elder Sword Cultivators showered Yun Xiao with praise, showing no disdain for him despite his being a native of these parts.

    During their chat, Yun Xiao got the scoop on their identities. The white-browed old man turned out to be the leader of the group, a top-notch Sword Cultivator from the Eternal Sword Prison, respectfully called Old Bai by the others.

    The rest of the elders seemed to be from the Sword Ruins of the Eternal Sword Prison, known as Sword Judgesa formal title in the prison, symbolizing a great master of the Sword Dao.

    Gu Baiyi was also a Sword Judge. But as for his self-proimed title of Sword God, that seemed to be more puffery than fact.

    Apart from Old Bai and the other Sword Judges, there were a few younger Sword Cultivators tagging along, eyeing Yun Xiao curiously.

    After a bit of mingling and small talk with Yun Xiao, everyone remained cordial, without delving too deep into each other''s business. For Old Bai andpany, the real meat and potatoes were to verify the existence of the Heavenly Land.

    After trekking across the Demon Continent for a while, they confirmed it: the core of this enormous continent was formed out of a violet crystal as far as the eye could see.

    "If a crystal vein this big isn''t the Heavenly Land, what else could it be?" Old Bai mused, gazing at the unbreakable purple crystal underfoot, his eyes sparkling with intrigue.

    "Grandpa, the real pickle is how do we get our hands on this Heavenly Land? It''s too massive to lug back to the Eternal Sword Prison, right?" The question came from a young man in white, different from Yun Xiao''s attire.

    Yun Xiao''s garb, crafted by Zhao Xuanran, was modest and simple. But this young man''s white robe, embroidered with floral patterns and clouds and woven with magic fabric, served both as elegant clothing and armor.

    He was Bai Wuque, a famed prodigy of the Eternal Sword Prison, with sword energy in his eyes as deep as the ocean, an unmatched handsome figure with the looks of a beautiful youth. In terms of swordsmanship and the path of cultivation, he was evidently a notch above Qian Die. His sharpness could even overshadow Yun Xiao!

    "As for the Heavenly Land, our knowledge is limited to legends. Our ancestors recorded that it might possess a core. If one could control that core, maybe, just maybe, they could control the Heavenly Land," Old Bai said gravely.

    "Where is this core?" Bai Wuque asked.

    "That, we don''t know. We don''t even know how it exists," Old Bai admitted, looking over the vast violetndscape. "Figuring this out and seizing the initiative is our task."

    After their arrival, they learned that the Heavenly Land had also opened a portal to the Endless Netherworld. So, Old Bai sent back new intelligence to the Eternal Sword Prison. This was something Yun Xiao couldn''t stop.

    "Old Bai, esteemed Sword Ancestors, I have a way to obtain this Heavenly Land." Suddenly, a nondescript young man in a grey robe stepped forward!

    Yun Xiao had already noticed him. Among the younger group, he was the least conspicuous, with unkempt hair and stained clothes, a far cry from the likes of Bai Wuque and the other refined young men and women, both in temperament and background. Yet, his clear eyes and handsome features were approachable.

    As the gray-robed youth spoke up, Bai Wuque seemed displeased, his voice chilly, "Sword ve, do not speak nonsense." Though not loud, his voice carried a warning.

    The elders, too, paid no heed to the gray-robed youth, indicating their disregard for him.

    "Please forgive him, everyone. My Sword ve here was hit in the head by a falling broken sword the other day, and ever since, he''s been a bit off, often speaking incoherently," Bai Wuque exined.

    "After the Sword Baptism Ceremony, we''ll rece him," Old Bai said.

    "Right!" Bai Wuque nodded.

    From their conversation, it was clear they were headed to the Sword Ruins for the Sword Baptism Ceremony. Being close to the entrance, they were summoned first, which exined why they brought along a lowly sword ve.

    After finishing their discussion, the grandfather-grandson duo continued to probe the mysteries of the Demon Continent while awaiting further instructions from the Eternal Sword Prison.

    "Old Bai''s cultivation level must have surpassed the Dao Heart Realm!" Yun Xiao mused to himself. Such a fearsome Sword Cultivator, a terror in both the Divine and Demon Continents, was like a sword hanging over his heart. Ufortably close!

    "That sword ve named Ling Chen seems to have something special about him," Blue Star suddenly remarked softly.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao perked up and discreetly nced over. He saw the gray-robed youth standing at the edge, head bowed, fists clenching and unclenching as if he were weathering an inner storm.

    "Hisss!" Ling Chen felt like he''d been struggling in a dark vortex for a million years. He was attached to an ancient, nine-colored sword! This sword had nine segments, each adorned with an age-old figure of an Immortal and Devil, and carved with an eternal daow.

    Each daow pulsated with the power of space, almost like real worlds!

    These were a million years of loneliness, istion, and hardship!

    "Zi Xuan! I treated you like a brother, yet you attacked me when I was weak from transcending tribtions, stealing my Immortal Sword Bone and robbing me of my Divine Cosmic Sword!"

    Countless times he came close to soul disintegration, but the hatred in his heart and the nine-colored sword kept him clinging on. For a million years, the hatred in his heart grew more and more monumental, like nine infernal volcanoes converging upon that nine-colored sword!

    This sword, breaking through countless realms, fell from the highest heavens, descending into the dust of the mundane world. Finally, a light appeared ahead!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The gray-robed youth, facing this light, jolted, his eyes suddenly regaining rity.

    "Who am I?" Two different sets of memories collided in his mind. "I am the lord of the Divine Sky Sword Court, the once-celebrated Divine Sky Sword Emperor! One immortal, one sword, I vanquished all across the vast universe. Yet, I was betrayed by my sworn brother, stripped of my Immortal Sword Bone, and robbed of my Sword Soul!

    "I am a mortal Sword Cultivator, born a Sword Dao prodigy, sparking anomalies at birth. Envied by many, I was stripped of my sword bone, robbed of my Sword Soul, reduced to a wasted life, a mere Sword ve..."

    As these memories merged, Ling Chen realized he had been reborn!

    "This body, too, is named Ling Chen!" He stood in the corner, his heart turbulent with emotions. A million years of relentless perseverance had led to this day. Even as the former Divine Sky Sword Emperor, the long-lost sensation of being alive still stirred him wildly.

    "Hmm?" Ling Chen extended his hand, and suddenly, a nine-colored Sword Soul appeared! This Sword Soul, with its nine segments, each resembled a miniature world, brimming with spatial power, standing like statues of Immortals and devils.

    "The Divine Cosmic Sword! It has reincarnated with me, bing my Sword Soul..." Ling Chen''s eyes went wide. This was the sword of ultimate spatial power from the ancient era! In his past life, he had spent tens of thousands of years without unraveling its mysteries, only to be betrayed because of it, dying with a heart full of resentment.

    "With this sword, I''ll once again ascend the heavens with the Sword Dao, surpassing my past life."

    Clutching the nine-colored Sword Soul, Ling Chen''s eyes zed with the resolve of the former Divine Sky Sword Emperor.

    "In this life, I''ll settle scores swiftly. Those who deserve death will meet their end! In this life, if I meet my beloved again, I''ll have no regrets! The day I return to the highest heavens, Zi Xuan, you''ll pay a price a thousandfold!"

    A divine radiance surged in Ling Chen''s eyes, the nine-colored Sword Soul resonating with him. But soon, a bitter smile crossed his face: "This new body of mine is quite frail. Seems like the journey back to the heavens starts from scratch."

    He closed his eyes. When he opened them again, his brows furrowed, and he muttered coldly, "Qin Tian, you exploited your status in the Sword Ruins to steal my sword bone for your son! Qin Luo, you took my swordsmanship talent and now shine as a top talent of the Sword Ruins! I will make you pay for this blood debt!"

    He was the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, and also the mortal Ling Chen! The grievances of his past life were buried deep in his heart, but the hatred of this life would be avenged first!

    "Bai Wuque, think you can bully a sword ve? I remember now; you''re Qin Luo''s friend." They knew his true identity but spared his life only to humiliate and oppress him repeatedly. If not for the contributions of his parents to the Sword Ruins, his fate would have been even worse! It was because his parents vanished that Qin Tian dared covet his sword bone...

    "Now, without enough strength, I must cultivate quietly! With the Divine Cosmic Sword as my Sword Soul, the Sword Baptism Ceremony is my chance. If I can make the sword resonate nine times, I can be the Sword Prince of the Ruins, take a master, protect the Dao..." Ling Chen''s gaze was deep, his goal firm.

    "Wait." Suddenly, Ling Chen looked down at the violet crystal of thend, his eyes lighting up. "The Divine Cosmic Sword seems to react to thisnd? Such a miraculous thing in this mundane world?

    "If I can absorb this Heavenly Land, the Divine Cosmic Sword will surely grow stronger." He smiled. A million yearster, fortune finally smiled upon him. "In this life, the heavens are aiding me!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 244: Returning Three Years of Humiliation Twofold

    Chapter 244: Returning Three Years of Humiliation Twofold

    "Sword ve!"

    Just then, a cold, clear voice shattered Ling Chen''s grand thoughts. He lifted his head, his eyes shedding their previous confusion and humility, reced now by the lofty disdain and otherworldliness of his past life. It was a nobility that sprung from deep within!

    "What are you gaping at? Bring over the Sword Casket," Bai Wuque, quite fed up with this pathetic creature, grumbled. To win over Qin Luo, he had tormented this sword ve for years, but now the game had grown dull.

    Ling Chen''s back bore a heavy Sword Casket. The casket was taller than him! Bowed under its perennial weight, his back was stooped.

    This Sword Casket, simr to the sheathe carried by Sword Heaven''s Lin Chen, contained a liquid made from demon marrow. Long-term nurturing of it could enhance the Sword Soul and Sword Aura, improving their grade.

    Legend had it that cing the Sword Casket in a Bag of Holding would degrade its quality, and since the Sword Soul couldn''t enter the Bag of Holding, the Eternal Sword Prison devised the role of sword vesservants tasked with carrying their master''s Sword Casket, ensuring the master could nurture their Sword Soul anytime, anywhere.

    A former prodigy capable of triggering Sword Dao phenomena, reduced to a sword ve, groveling and catering to his every need... For Bai Wuque, this was indeed delightful.

    Over the years, wherever Ling Chen went, he encountered peculiar gazes. He had tasted the world''s warmth and cold. But all that was in the past!

    "In this remote ce, with no powerful backing, I''ll endure you, Bai Wuque, onest time. After the Sword Baptism Ceremony, I''ll return this three years of humiliation twofold." A cold glint flickered in Ling Chen''s eyes as he straightened up and approached Bai Wuque.

    <em>SLAP! </em>Bai Wuque suddenly pped him across the face, leaving five finger marks.

    "What''s wrong with you today? Standing there like an idiot. Open the Sword Casket! Do I have to tell you twice?" Bai Wuque''s voice was icy cold.

    "Yes..." Ling Chen, covering his face, felt a surge of rage in his chest. But he held back. "This boy is in the Awakened Emperor Realm, and I''ve just been reborn. Just give me a month, and wait..."

    Ling Chen made a mental note. The once-mighty Divine Sky Sword Emperor, reduced to such a state, he couldn''t help but feel a twinge of sadness. One more time, he lowered his head, opened the Sword Casket, and ced it before Bai Wuque.

    <em>BANG! </em>Maybe it was the rebirth that drained too much energy, but the Sword Casket slipped from his grasp and crashed to the ground, stirring up a cloud of dust.

    "Ah." A young and charming female Sword Cultivator nearby stepped back, frowning as she nced at the dirt on her skirt. Sheined, "Brother Bai, your sword ve is really clumsy, getting my dress all dirty."

    "I''m sorry, Senior Sister Zhaoyu," Ling Chen bowed his head.

    "Sword ve, you dare to call me <em>Senior Sister</em>? Are you out of your mind?" The female Sword Cultivator looked at Ling Chen with a strange expression.

    Bai Wuque, standing nearby, was already fed up. Looking at Ling Chen, his eyes turned ice-cold in an instant. "I was just going to let it slide, but you''re asking for it, aren''t you?"

    Just asking him to pass a Sword Casket, and this fool kept messing up! The boy was bowing his head, looking all enduring, but suddenly, his eyes firmed up... Who wouldn''t notice?

    A sword ve, only worthy of trembling and cowering, suddenly seemed enlightened, as if he had be a different person. Who wouldn''t realize his thoughts of revenge?

    Did he think everyone else was a fool?

    <em>KLANG! </em>Bai Wuque, not bothering to say another word, swiftly drew out his Sword Soul, transforming it into a Palm Sword, shing towards Ling Chen''s head!

    This sh was fast, fierce, and decisive! With the sword drawn, there was only one intention: to cleave this eyesore in two, once and for all.

    "That ruthless?!" Ling Chen gasped in shock! The once-mighty Divine Sky Sword Emperor, just reborn and at his weakest moment, was startled by this lethal attack! He thought these mortals were fools, but they were even more ruthless than his brother, the Violet Arcane Sword Emperor, who plotted to usurp the throne.

    <em>KLANG! </em>In that lightning-fast moment, a streak of azure light shed, colliding with the side of Bai Wuque''s Sword Aura, forcefully diverting its direction.

    Bai Wuque''s sword grazed Ling Chen''s shoulder, peeling off ayer of skin!

    <em>THUD! </em>Ling Chen rolled onto the ground, his face pale and sweating profusely. He had just been reborn, with no time to cultivate, and he was almost ughtered.

    "Who saved me?" Ling Chen quickly turned around, only to see a modestly dressed young man in white standing behind him. The young man was handsome and ethereal, seemingly otherworldly, a native yet not at all rustic.

    "Yun Xiao?" Bai Wuque nced at his Sword Soul, which now sported a ck spot. His entire body, from the depths of his sword bone, tingled with pain. He hadn''t expected Yun Xiao to save a sword ve, and even less, that this native''s 1,000yer Sword Aura would be so unyielding.

    "Brother Bai!" Yun Xiao stepped forward, standing before Bai Wuque with earnestness. "Heaven cherishes life, I beseech you to show mercy and spare this brother."

    Bai Wuque was momentarily stunned. "Are you sure?" he asked.

    "In these troubled times, beset by demons and devils, I was born into this world, always inspiring the people to put aside their prejudices, unite against the enemy. Only then can our race prosper," Yun Xiao said.

    Bai Wuque was taken aback. He exchanged a nce with Senior Sister Zhaoyu; both their eyes the same thought. <em>Oh great, another ''Hero''. </em>He''d intended to dispose of this sword ve quietly in the Demon Continent, away from prying eyes. But then Yun Xiao appeared out of nowhere.

    Bai Wuque wasn''t particrly afraid of Yun Xiao, but after all, he was the <emst disciple</em> of Gu Baiyi and had merits towards the human race, making it tricky for him to handle. So, he turned to his grandfather.

    Old Bai and others had already noticed themotion.

    After a moment of silence, the old man said to Bai Wuque, "Don''t make trouble."

    "Yes!" Bai Wuque, getting the hint, shot Ling Chen a cold nce. "You better thank your savior. Be smarter next time." Then, he addressed Yun Xiao, "Brother Yun, born in this lesser world, yet possessing such swordsmanship, is indeed admirable. I wish you a sensational debut at the Sword Baptism Ceremony, reaching the pinnacle."

    "Thank you, Brother Bai! Today, my unsheathing of the sword was impulsive, I hope you will forgive me. I will heed your teachings in the future and seek your guidance," Yun Xiao said with a bow.

    "No problem," Bai Wuque said with a polite smile.

    Meanwhile, on the other side...

    "Old Bai, this Yun Xiao may have high talent in swordsmanship, but he doesn''t seem very smart. Such a person, even if brought back to Sword Ruins, probably won''tst long. Why bother?" a Sword Judge whispered.

    Old Bai shook his head. "Gu Baiyi entrusted his Sword Rings to him. Out of respect for the dead, we should give him some face, especially since he discovered Heavenly Land and contributed greatly."

    After a pause, Old Bai nced at Yun Xiao again. "The Sword Dao is humanity''s most lethal dao, yet he cultivates it with kindness, dooming himself to a short journey. But as long as he doesn''t die at the hands of my Bai family, we need not fear gossip."

    The Sword Judges exchanged awkward smiles, one of them saying, "Old Bai, we''re all close to you, even if this kid dies, it''ll be med on demons and devils."

    "Sure sure." Old Bai chuckled, waving them off. His eyes flickered with a disdainful gleam. <em>I trust you foxes as far as I can throw you.</em>

    With that, the incident seemed toe to an end. Afterwards, Bai Wuque was outwardly courteous to Yun Xiao, but inwardly, he harbored hostility. For Ling Chen, he could draw his sword with ease, but for someone of Yun Xiao''s special status... often, disliking someone didn''t necessarily mean he''d have to act personally.

    "This hero will not survive three days in the Sword Graveyard," Senior Sister Zhaoyu sneered quietly.

    "Three hours would be impressive," Bai Wuque said indifferently.

    Yun Xiao had just lucked his way into joining the elite ranks of the Sword Ruins. Yet, for a sword ve, he''d openly defied the will of a young master... if that wasn''t ack of brains, what was?

    Ling Chen also shared the same sentiment. He looked up, his gaze strange as he observed the young man in white before him. "You dared to save me, aren''t you afraid of death?"

    "Seeing injustice on the road, drawing the sword to assist is the instinct of Sword Cultivators like us. I didn''t think too much at the moment," Yun Xiao said with a smile, helping Ling Chen up.

    "Oh?" Ling Chen smirked, slightly shaking his head. <em>Mercy and kindness are the privilege of the strong. Lad, you were lucky, being born into this lesser world with such great talent Or else, there would be no way you would have survived this long. </em>Of course, he wouldn''t voice such thoughts.

    His eyes zing, Ling Chen spoke earnestly, "Regardless, you saved my life at my lowest. For a drop of kindness, I shall repay a hundredfold, let alone for saving my life. The day I ascend to the heavens will be the day you join me there!"

    "Oh? Then I''ll thank you in advance," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Ling Chen''s mood lifted, musing to himself, <em>Thisd might not be the brightest, but he had luck on his side. Stumbling into saving me, if only he were a bit sharper. I might personally teach him the Sword Dao, making him my right-hand man. He could even carve out a ce for himself in my Divine Sky Sword Court!</em>

    Their eyes met again, each harboring their own schemes as they exchanged smiles.

    "Having survived this ordeal, we now await the Sword Baptism Ceremony," Ling Chen said, turning to look at Bai Wuque''s retreating figure, a magma of resolve stirring in his eyes.

    "Just don''t give him that look too often, or he might guess you''re plotting revenge," Yun Xiao warned good-naturedly.

    ".." Ling Chen''s expression froze, and he awkwardly coughed and looked away.

    On another side of the Demon Continent stood the War Princess in a tight ck dress. Her body was wrapped with blood-red dragons formed from Mortal Dust Devil Blood. These dragons, coiling around her waist and legs, bound her tightly.

    Though it was her own blood, it brought an unusual sensation, painting her entire body a drunken red, her legs trembling uncontrobly, asionally letting out a soft moan.

    She, the dignified devil princess, could only stand immobile, feeling utterly frustrated. But there was no choice! Yun Xiao was using her body for cultivation.

    At that moment, her heart, arteries, blood vessels, and Mortal Dust Devil Blood were all out of her control.

    Yun Xiao was like a blood-red leech, parasitically attached to her body. Every time he cultivated, she could only watch helplessly, drenched in sweat, her body soaked.

    "When will these days end?" the War Princess murmured to herself.

    "The day you die, that''s when," a cold voice from the Mortal Dust Devil Blood in her heart rang out.

    "Damn it," the War Princess gritted her teeth, "Can''t you be a bit more tactful, you deadpan man?"

    "My emotional intelligence varies with the person. If you were my Senior Sister Zhao, I''d be much more considerate," Yun Xiao replied nonchntly.

    "Who''s Senior Sister Zhao?" The War Princess froze. "I heard you were Divine Dawn''s husband, and now there''s a Senior Sister Zhao? ying quite the field, aren''t you?"

    "What''s it to you?" Yun Xiao chuckled, "You enjoyed showing off with my Mortal Dust Devil Blood, and now you dare to sigh andin?"

    The War Princess tried to retort, but Yun Xiao suddenly intensified his cultivation speed, the dragons from the Mortal Dust Devil Blood coiling even tighter! She was left gasping for air. "This is too shameful"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 245: The Sword Baptism Ceremony of the Sword Ruins!

    Chapter 245: The Sword Baptism Ceremony of the Sword Ruins!

    The War Princess would rather die than let anyone, other than Yun Xiao, see her in her current state. She hung her head in shame, the dignity of the Mortal Dust Devil Princess swept away like dust in the wind.

    Luckily, just then, light and shadows fluttered at the entrance to the Endless Netherworld. The War Princess hastily said, "Stop cultivating, someone''sing!"

    No sooner had her words fallen than those Mortal Dust Devil Blood dragons sank into her body!

    Finally, she straightened up, and took a deep breath, the flush of intoxication fading from her face. She stood tall and proud, her demeanor turning cold, aloof, and unapproachable.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Several tall figures appeared before the War Princess. All of them were devils!

    "Yao Yao." In the middle of this group stood a young devil, towering at least two heads above Yun Xiao. Perfectly proportioned, he wore violet armor, his features chiseled and resolute, his dark red eyes exuding the cold, bloodthirsty aura of a devil.

    What stood out most was his long, silver hair, tied back elegantly, with two violet horns on his forehead like a majestic stag, sharp and deadly. The others around him, too, had an impressive presence and demeanor. Their arrival brought a chill of death, as if plunging the surrounding ten miles into the depths of hell!

    These young devils were clearly top talents of the Endless Netherworld.

    The War Princess''s eyes immediatelynded on the silver-haired youth. "What did you just call me?" she asked, ice seeming to form on her face.

    "I was wrong," the silver-haired youth said with a slight smile, his eyes filled with indulgence. "Your Highness, I apologize for making you wait."

    The War Princess scanned them and frowned, "Why is it always you youngsters who show up?"

    "The elders are still widening the passage. The truly powerful ones can''t get through yet," the silver-haired youth replied, his eyebrows lifting as he gazed across the Demon Continent. "As for the Eternal Sword Prison, even if their old fogeys got through, I can handle them."

    The other devils also wore cold smiles.

    "Your Highness," the silver-haired youth knelt on one knee, cing one hand on his abdomen respectfully. "The lord has instructed me to escort you back to the pce. You''ve done a great service in the matters of the Heavenly Land and rewards await you."

    "I''m not going back," the War Princess said firmly.

    "Not going back?" The silver-haired youth bit his lip, looking up at her earnestly. "Your eighteenth birthday is approaching. Though it''s not a happy asion, your parents have epted it... After the wedding, no matter the storm, I''ll guard you with my life. Anyone who dares to nder you, I will annihte their entire n."

    "Eighteen years old?" The War Princess suddenly unleashed her Bloodfang Devourer whip, binding the silver-haired youth by the neck, forcing him to look up. She pointed to her blood horns, whispering eerily, "Nine-Tiered Bloodline, all unlocked. Do you see them clearly now?"

    At her words, the other young devils shuddered, their blood-red eyes widening in disbelief at the sight of her. Especially the silver-haired youth, who involuntarily knelt down.

    "It''s true..."

    "The Devil Heart Realm!"

    Their looks transformed from shock and confusion to ecstasy and reverence, mixed with a tumult of emotions. This was exactly what the War Princess had anticipated, exactly what she had yearned for.

    She knew these talents from the Endless Netherworld respected her only superficially because of her status. Deep down, hadn''t they always seen her as a pitiable figure?

    She was fed up with their two-faced attitudes, one in front of her and another behind her back. Now, these trembling gazes signified a seismic shift in how these proud demons viewed her, from pity to reverence.

    This feeling of exhration was what she had craved for seventeen years, something she dreamt of! It was a rush, like a heady intoxication! She had fallen in love with this feeling, as if addicted to it.

    "Congrattions, Your Highness! Piercing through the clouds, soaring to the heavens,manding theherworld, unmatched in the Nine Hells!" The silver-haired youth, his eyes bloodshot, prostrated himself on the ground, his voice fierce with emotion.

    <em>THUD! </em>The other blood devil talents quickly followed suit, kneeling down.

    The unlocking of the Nine-Tiered Bloodline What did that signify? They knew better than anyone! It could elevate a once-famous useless princess back to her peak, causing a sensation across the Nine Hells!

    "Feng You, are you truly happy?" The War Princess gazed at the silver-haired youth with a deep, haunting look. "Now, you''re no longer worthy of me."

    The silver-haired youth''s face was pressed to the ground, his expression hidden, but his fingers clenched tightly together. The others looked at his prostrated figure, their eyes filled with sympathy.

    "Your Highness!" The silver-haired youth lifted his head, his eyes bloodshot as he looked at the War Princess. "You fulfilling your wish could lead our n to the pinnacle of the Nine Hells! This is the glory of our n, our future! I am overjoyed for Your Highness, for our n! Even if Your Highness offers me no affection, I will serve you all my life, until I return to dust!"

    "Is that what you truly think? My unlocking, isn''t it a disaster for you? I remember, you weren''t so humble before me in the past. You say you''ll guard me all your life, but your eyes tell me that in your view, I''m just a worthless tool for climbing to power," the War Princess said, her voice haunting as she gazed at him.

    Feng You trembled all over. <em>BANG BANG BANG! </em>He knocked his forehead against the ground three times in rapid session.

    Human hearts, devil hearts they were all sensitive, and some truths can''t be hidden.

    All he could do was prostrate himself, speaking with unwavering conviction, "I deeply apologize for my previous rashness and foolishness. I pledge my life to atone for my mistakes to Your Highness!"

    "Forget it." The War Princess suddenly kicked him in the face.

    <em>BANG! </em>Feng You rolled on the ground, blood seeping from his face, yet he remained silent, continuing to bow his head, his eyes bloodshot.

    "I vow to follow the princess unto death!"

    "Then you might as well die right now!" The War Princess stomped him into the ground again! Watching these so-called geniuses grovel before her,pletely changed from their usual selves, she vented all the sorrow and rage of the past seventeen years.

    Her heart was sensitive. She was acutely aware of the many who looked down on her, mocking her behind her back. If she hadn''t been fed up, why would she wish to die on her eighteenth birthday?

    Her parents hadpromised, agreeing to marry her off to Feng You, a man she disliked. The irony was, even he looked down on her! The backbiting and sneers of such people were the most hurtful!

    With that stomp, she felt an exhrating rush, as if soaring into the heavens! Who had brought all this upon her? At that moment, she suddenly felt that the frustrations she had faced in Yun Xiao''s presence seemed less significant.

    "Enough," the War Princess knew when to stop, her face cold as she nced over the group, "Stand up."

    "Yes!" The talented devils stood up, bowing their heads before her.

    "Let bygones be bygones. Your future actions will determine my opinion," the War Princess dered.

    "Yes!" Their voices were fervent.

    "Feng You," the War Princess turned to the silver-haired youth, "Is it my father''s wish for me to return and marry you?"

    "Yes!" Feng You dared not speak out of turn.

    "Go back and tell him I won''t return. I intend to conquer the Heavenly Land right here!" the War Princess dered.

    "Yes! If the Lord knew about Your Highness unlocking the Nine-Tiered Bloodline, he would be ecstatic." Feng You bowed his head, pausing before adding, "But there''s been a new development regarding the Heavenly Land."

    "A new development? What did he say?" the War Princess inquired.

    "The Lord negotiated with the Sword Cultivators of the Eternal Sword Prison. They''ve decided to hold off on fighting and explore the Heavenly Land on their own. We''re ordered to exercise restraint," Feng You exined.

    "What''s next?" the War Princess asked.

    "They''re expending energy to fully open the portal. Its capacity is limited for now! In the future, many young ones will be sent. After all, younger equals higher birth and bloodline, increasing the chances of iming the Heavenly Land. The Eternal Sword Prison will likely do the same," Feng You continued.

    "Understood." The War Princess nodded, her gaze turning icy, "Go back and tell my father that I will take full charge of the Heavenly Land''s affair. All the talents from the Endless Netherworld who enter must follow my orders! This is my domain, and I call the shots!"

    Elsewhere, another Sword Cultivator from the Eternal Sword Prison entered. Clearly, the frequency of arrivals was about to increase. This time, it was a frosty beauty in a white dress. She flew on her Sovereign Sword, her dress and long hair fluttering, her demeanor cool and seemingly unconquerable.

    "Mother." Bai Wuque hurriedly greeted her, his face full of reverence.

    The frosty beauty''s cold face only softened with a hint of indulgence upon seeing her son.

    Yun Xiao was somewhat surprised. He had thought she was Bai Wuque''s sister. Turns out she was his mother. She looked so young, more like an older sister.

    "Qingxue." Old Bai, still studying the Demon Continent, looked up at the frosty beauty, "What''s the word from the Sword Ruins?"

    Bai Qingxue''s voice was clear and cold, "We''ve agreed with the Endless Netherworld to avoid conflict for now and each explore based on our abilities."

    "Oh? Both sides want to open the portal first, huh? Quite in sync." Old Bai nodded, not surprised by this development.

    It was as if the Sword Cultivators and the devils had temporarily allied.

    "After all, the Nine Hells Conquest sh is imminent, and neither side wants to lose too much strength prematurely. Otherwise, they''ll be the target of all," Bai Qingxue said softly.

    "Alright, let''s go with that for now," Old Bai nodded in agreement.

    "More sword geniuses will be sent after the Sword Baptism Ceremony," Bai Qingxue added.

    "Understood."

    This was more or less what Old Bai had anticipated, but it was quite different from what Yun Xiao had in mind! If there were no conflicts, it made it difficult for him to take action. Just then, Bai Qingxue mentioned something significant: "The Sword Ruins have hinted that there''s a human continent beneath the Heavenly Land. We should be careful not to let the devils descend and wreak havoc on the innocents."

    "Hmm!" Old Bai also nodded in agreement.

    Yun Xiao felt this was a basic standard of decency. If these people couldn''t even care for their own kind, what kind of people were they?

    "Given that, you should also report about Gu Baiyi''s situation," Old Bai informed Bai Qingxue about Gu Baiyi''s condition and pointed at Yun Xiao. "Before Gu Baiyi passed away, he had a wish for this young man to train in the Sword Ruins. Take Wuque with you to the Sword Baptism Ceremony and bring him along too."

    Bai Qingxue nced at Yun Xiao. His youthfulness and charm were appealing to all ages, causing even her steadfast heart to flutter.

    "Could it be that someone''s unbeatable solely by their looks?" The frost in her eyes seemed to melt a bit. Byparison, Ling Chen seemed utterly ordinary, just a bit more delicate, easily lost in the crowd.

    "Let''s go." With that, Bai Qingxue rose on her Sovereign Sword, her icy sword shadow slicing through the air towards the Eternal Sword Prison.

    "This ce is left to Moon Fairy and the blood ve. My true self is limited in power. Staying here is a waste of time. I''d better seek an opportunity for ascent in the Sword Ruins!" Thinking this, Yun Xiao followed swiftly.

    "The Sword Baptism Ceremony!" Yun Xiao, Ling Chen, and Bai Wuque, they were all waiting for this day to make a stunning entrance.

 Chapter 246: Demon Continents Top Demon Emperor!

    Chapter 246: Demon Continent''s Top Demon Emperor!

    In the heart of the Demon Continenty the ck Moon Forest, a stronghold of the beast demons and the birthce of the Heavenly Hound''s n. Here, generation upon generation of the Eclipse Demon Emperor''s ancestors had reigned supreme over the beast demons.

    In this ancient and eerie dark forest, countless demons, freshly escaped from the Heavenly Realm, knelt in awe towards a cave at its deepest point. The cave''s mouth yawned like the gaping maw of an abyss, shrouded in demonic mist and echoing with chilling, eerie growls. The demons, their faces flushed with crimson fury, knelt low, burdened by deep resentment.

    Among them, two familiar figures stood out at the forefront. One was the Ape Saint, d in a white robe and gold-rimmed sses, and the other, the Burning Saint, engulfed in mes.

    Indeed, after the battle at the Ancestral Temple, Yun Xiao had in many top-tier Demon Saints but had let these two escape, allowing them to flee back to the Demon Continent.

    "The barrier has degraded to its original state; we need millions of corpses to restore it to its pre-cmity level," the Ape Saint murmured, his gaze heavy with worry.

    "Our only hope lies with Moon Fairy!" the Burning Saint dered, his eyes zing as he stared into the deep demonic cave.

    "Aren''t you a resentment demon? Why speak for the beast demons?" Ape Saint asked, puzzled.

    With a heavy sigh, the Burning Saint replied, "I understand Forbidden Fate better than you. Moon Fairy is right. The stronger Forbidden Fate bes, the more selfish he bes. Relying on him as our hope it will eventually lead to him betraying us and... devouring everything."

    This harsh truth dimmed the Ape Saint''s gaze even further.

    "Regardless, our peak forces may have suffered greatly, but our demon army is still stronger than thebined forces of the entire Divine Continent''s human race. As long as Moon Fairy is with us, we still have a chance to have thestugh! This battle is far from over!" the Burning Saint growled.

    "It''s not that it''s far from over, it''s that it hasn''t truly begun," the Ape Saint said somberly.

    Setting aside the rabble at the Ancestral Temple, the demon army had only annihted the Violet Sky Immortal Army and hadn''t even breached the gates of the Heavenly Realm.

    "Those humans, Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn, dancing with devils, will meet a bad end. Perhaps we won''t even need to lift a finger; they''ll find their own demise," the Burning Saint said.

    "They''ve already suffered bacsh. Yun Xiao''s mysterious master is dead, and he himself might be gone too," the Ape Saint mused coldly. "It''s undeniable, devils are powerful... I wonder, if we fully submit, could we serve the devils and herd the human race?"

    "Would you be content with that?" the Burning Saint asked, his voice low.

    "Definitely not. But we have no means to seal that passage now. The Endless Netherworld is too terrifying; we can''t handle it," the Ape Saint replied, helpless.

    "It''s not just the Endless Netherworld. That foreign Sword Cultivator also hails from a dimension at the same level. What lies ahead will only be more chaotic," the Burning Saint said.

    And so, the two demons, burdened with the future of their kind, sank into a deep well of anxiety.

    "The stronger the Sword Cultivator world bes, the more perilous it is for us demons. It seems our only way out is to align with the Endless Netherworld. I''ve heard that not many powerful beings cane through that passage. With our 80 million-strong demon army and billions of lesser demons, we might still be useful to the devils." The Ape Saint peered into the depths of the cave, raising an eyebrow and wondering, "I wonder what Moon Fairy thinks of this?"

    "He''sing out," the Burning Saint suddenly announced, his whole body trembling with anticipation.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In an instant, the countless demon soldiers turned their gaze toward the abyss-like cave mouth. Out of the dark, silent world within, a silver-white demon fox emerged. Despite its fox form, it exuded an aura of dominance, vastness, and ancient power. Even the Ape Saint felt an instinctive fear upon seeing it.

    "Demon Emperor!" The crowd of demons roared in fervent adoration, their cries shaking the ck Moon Forest.

    "He''s grown stronger!" the Burning Saint eximed in awe, exchanging a nce with the Ape Saint.

    "From the Blood Lotus Valley, Demon Insect Abyss, Soul-Breaking Cliff, to the ck Moon Forest, it feels like he''s breaking through at each location. Who knew the Deste Essences of the four great Demon Emperors would be so effective?" the Ape Saint pondered, deeply shaken.

    After a moment of fear, the Burning Saint''s mood shifted to excitement. "No matter what, Moon Fairy remains the most extraordinary demon in the Demon Continent! Given time, he will surely dominate the Divine Continent''s human race and y all foreign humans and devils. How could Forbidden Fate, for his selfish desires, falsely use such a terrifying demon of treason?"

    This was indeed the strongest Demon Emperor!

    "Demon Emperor!" the Ape Saint approached cautiously, "May I ask, what is our next n for the Demon Continent? Do we fully submit to the devils, bing their soldiers, to fight a decisive battle against the Divine Continent''s humans and foreign Sword Cultivators?"

    Moon Fairy, standing aloft, his silver fur billowing in the wind, swept its icy gaze over the army of beast demons below. "The Endless Netherworld and the Eternal Sword Prison are forces beyond contest for the Demon Continent. The Sword Cultivators see our demon kind as mere resources, and we naturally cannot coexist with them! But..."

    "But what?" the Burning Saint inquired.

    "The current situation is unclear, and we are in decline. We should act low-key. If the devils need us, they wille to us," Moon Fairy spoke coldly. "The world''s passageways may change; we need to be calm andposed, holding the advantage of our 80 million-strong demon army, and wait for the situation to unfold."

    "Sounds reasonable!" Both the Ape Saint and the Burning Saint nodded in agreement.

    "Before that, I have more pressing matters to attend to," Moon Fairy dered, descending from the cave mouth, transforming into a silver-haired youth, almost indistinguishable in gender. After cultivating the Will of Divine Destion, his demeanor had be even more enigmatic and ethereal.

    "We are at your service, Demon Emperor," the Ape Saint and Burning Saint bowed, the only remaining Demon Saints.

    "Indeed, I need you," Moon Fairy stood in front of the Burning Saint, gazing into his eyes. "You were the number one general under Forbidden Fate. You must know where he''s hiding now?"

    The Burning Saint''s eyes quivered, shaking his head. "I don''t know."

    "Why so nervous? For the Demon Continent, I can set aside past conflicts and work together with him. As the former top Demon Emperor, doesn''t he even have the courage to meet me?" Moon Fairy said coldly.

    "..." The Burning Saint''s eyes struggled.

    "Speak!" the Ape Saint urged.

    "Ever since Forbidden Fate returned from the Heavenly Realm, he''s been missing. But... his origin is from the Forbidden Fate Volcano, born from the resentment of countless corpses thrown into it. After such a heavy blow this time, he should have gone to the volcano to recover first," the Burning Saint revealed.

    "The Forbidden Fate Volcano?" Moon Fairy raised an eyebrow.

    "Yes. It''s thergest wilderness in the Demon Continent, forming a volcano. Forbidden Fate was born from the resentment of countless bodies thrown into this volcano... I, too, was once a wildfire within the volcano," the Burning Saint exined.

    "Fine. Take me to find him." Moon Fairy looked at the Burning Saint.

    "This... I''m afraid..." the Burning Saint hesitated.

    "He''s not immortal, is he? Are you afraid I''ll destroy him?" Moon Fairy said with a coldugh.

    "It''s not that," the Burning Saint bit his teeth, "but Forbidden Fate considers the volcano his sacred ground and forbids any demon from entering. Vitors are executed."

    "Burning Saint!" Moon Fairy''s voice grew stern, "It''s no longer the number one Demon Emperor of the Demon Continent."

    Who was the top Demon Emperor now? They both knew very well. The closer the demons were to Moon Fairy, the more terrified they were. They could only entrust their future and hope to him.

    Hearing this, the Burning Saint finally made up his mind, sped his hands in a fist, and said with utmost respect, "Please follow me!"

    "Rest here! Wait for the Demon Emperor''smand!" the Ape Saint ordered the other beast demons.

    "Yes!" From the obedient attitude of the beast demons, it was clear that the Demon Continent had already undergone a regime change.

    In the center of the Demon Continent was the Forbidden Fate Volcano! This was a deste, ck, barrennd with not a de of grass in sight. The ground was scorched earth. The temperature of the scorched earth was extremely high, with both rocks and mudstone smoking. And from this smoke, Moon Fairy already smelled the scent of Deste Essence.

    "Plenty of Deste Essence! And not of low grade either..." He walked barefoot on this vastnd, his seemingly soft flesh body stepping onva, yet remaining unharmed. Just this scene alone made the Burning Saint and the Ape Saint watch in awe and fear.

    Yun Xiao sent Moon Fairy to rapidly ascend in the Demon Continent for a simple reasonthe five great Demon Emperors and the entire demon race harbored thergest quantity of Deste Essence within theirirs. Without Destion Beads and relying only on Destion Armor, it was difficult to transport vast amounts of Deste Essence. Their nests were the real treasures!

    Now, Moon Fairy had already acquired the Deste Essence left behind by four of the great Demon Emperors, a legacy of blessings passed down through countless generations of demons. He didn''t hesitate; he devoured them all without a trace of politeness.

    As long as this Deste Essence existed, the demons would grow stronger with each generation, bing a bane to the humans. So, Yun Xiao was tackling the root of the demon problem, effectively neutering them.

    After absorbing the Deste Essence of over a hundred Demon Saints and the four great Demon Emperors, his Divine Destion Physique broke through two stages, advancing from the Establishment stage of the Demon Saint Realm to the Mid stage of the Awakened Demon Emperor Realm.

    Now, ying the four great Demon Emperors was as easy as ughtering chickens for Moon Fairy. This was precisely why the Ape Saint and the Burning Saint feared him so deeply. After all, squashing them was now as easy as crushing an egg.

    And now, Moon Fairy had arrived at the greatest congregation of Deste Essence in the Demon Continent, the private sanctuary of Forbidden Fate!

    Before even stepping into the forbidden territory, the Ape Saint and the Burning Saint dared not proceed further. Their apprehensive nces told Moon Fairy they still feared Forbidden Fate. After all, a dying camel was still bigger than a horse, and Forbidden Fate was not yet dead!

    "Rest here," Moon Fairy was quite pleased with their performance. Their imagination had provided him considerable convenience.

    "I wish for the Demon Emperor and Forbidden Fate to join hands in harmony, to revitalize the Demon Continent, expel the foreign devils, and suppress the rebellious humans," the Ape Saint expressed his grand wish.

    "Don''t worry, it will happen," Moon Fairy replied with a slight smile. He turned and moved forward, passing through the pitch-ck smoke to find a volcanic crater.

    "The scent of Deste Essence. There''s so much of it!" Moon Fairy''s eyes zed with a cold fire. His robe fluttering, he fell like a flower into the volcano! Looking down, he saw a world filled with pale white mes of Deste Essence and endless thick smoke.

    It was a world of silence, wails, and pervasive demonic miasma! The wilderness formed volcanoes andva, stretching as far as the eye could see. Faced with such a massive amount of Deste mes, Moon Fairy''s Divine Destion Physique began to boil with excitement.

 Chapter 247 - Eternal Sword Descends!

    <h4>Chapter 247 - Eternal Sword Descends!</h4>

    "Even if I ignore Forbidden Fate, I can still swallow this volcano whole," Moon Fairy mused.

    The corpse demon had already seen Yun Xiao''s secret of merging human and demon, and even knew about the War Princess submitting to Yun Xiao! All the secrets were out in the open! This meant it was now the biggest risk to Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao liked to y it safe, no risks wanted. So, while his real self attended the Sword Baptism Ceremony, his body double stayed behind to clean up the mess, wiping out every threat to the Divine Continent''s human race, and then seizing Demon Continent''s second superweapon for his real self!

    And that was crucial! The more terrifying the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, the more Yun Xiao craved the Demon Continent.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>Moon Fairy''s robe billowed, tearing through the clouds and falling into the pale, white mes. This fire, born from corpses, zed fiercely, a grim reminder of the countless lives lost here.

    "Sure enough, I don''t need to find Forbidden Fate. I just have to invade his territory, and he''ll show himself!" Moon Fairy whirled around.

    <i>BOOM! </i>A haze of ck fog condensed, finally shaping into a dark figure. It wasposed of over a dozen human and demon corpses, with the skinless head of the Violet Emperor still intact¡ªnow his only head. This monster, skinless, tongue lolling, eyes rolled back, was as creepy as creepy gets!

    "What are you, exactly?!" Forbidden Fate hissed, bordering on hysteria.

    "Not important." Moon Fairy smiled eerily, "What''s important is, I''ll destroy everything you and the demons have. I''ll turn the Demon Continent into history."

    "So, you''re not really a demon." Forbidden Fate''s skinless face twisted with hatred and a shiver of terror. Only a true monster could scare another monster.

    "Right, I am Yun Xiao. Yun Xiao is me. From the beginning, it''s all been me ying you," Moon Fairy said with a smile.

    Hearing this, Forbidden Fate felt like he was struck by a thousand thunderbolts. His face, skinless, cracked open, twisting grotesquely. From the death of the Peacock Prince Kong Ming to the destruction of Violet Sky, and now Moon Fairy taking over Demon Continent... It was all Yun Xiao?

    Thinking of the War Princess serving Yun Xiao, and the unity of humans, demons, and devils, Forbidden Fatepletely lost it.

    "I know all your secrets! If I tell them to those foreign Sword Cultivators, you''re dead meat!" Forbidden Fate quickly regained hisposure, radiating a bone-chilling malevolence.

    "All my secrets? You''re not even close." Suddenly, Moon Fairy spread his arms wide. The pale mes in the heart of the volcano buzzed and surged towards him. His Divine Destion Physique, like an endless abyss, devoured them voraciously.

    "You can directly absorb and break through with the Deste Essence?!" Forbidden Fate''s mind was in shambles. Why did such a monster exist? Despite being the most fearsome of demons, it possessed the soft appearance of the Fox n!

    A corpse demon like him was now utterly terrified by these truths. What kept him going was nothing but the deepest core of resentment, a conglomeration of countless soulless corpses, a mutated soul himself. Without the support of the mountain of flesh and bones, this soul was incredibly fragile!

    But, Forbidden Fate was not afraid! This resentful soul, impervious to Flying Swords, demon magic, or daoist spells, would always reassemble, no matter how much he was weakened. Even if scattered, he could reform, drawing strength from his birthce, the Forbidden Fate Volcano. He couldn''t die!

    "Yun Xiao, your skills reach the heavens, but s, you''re too fond of showing off, squandering your advantage." Forbidden Fate''s voice was icy as he turned, disappearing into the pale white mes.

    "Really? What if I''m absolutely certain I can annihte you?" Moon Fairy replied, his voice turning even icier.

    Forbidden Fate shuddered! A bizarre power that made him tremble suddenly locked onto him! It whirled around! Behind him, the countless mes formed a ghastly pale vortex!

    In the center of this vortex, a silver-white fox raised its chin high, its presence as if emerging from the deepest abyss of the universe. Its silver-white eyes shimmered with an ancient, indifferent cold.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Just then, it opened its mouth! There was a vortex inside its mouth!

    "Huh?!" Forbidden Fate suddenly realized he couldn''t move! Not only that, but he was also being sucked in by Moon Fairy!

    "No!" he screamed. What kind of power was this? He had no idea. It seemed like some sort of demon magic! But this was no fox''s illusion magic, and it was beyond Forbidden Fate''sprehension.

    <i>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </i>During this, his body, made of corpses, melted away like ice under the sun, leaving only a resentful corpse soul behind.

    This soul felt like it was drowning, sinking deeper and deeper! The more it struggled, the faster it sank! It howled madly, scrambling and rolling, its voice filled with confusion, bewilderment, and terror.

    The Creator Immortal''s power was beyond its wildest dreams.

    "In the battle of the Heavenly Realm, you were already 99% dead. Just a corpse demon, did you really think you were immortal?" Moon Fairy''s chilling voice, in that final moment, shattered Forbidden Fate''sst heartstring. In that instant, all his resentment turned to fear, fundamentally changing his nature. When a wronged soul was dominated by fear, it would lose its essence!

    "I''m telling you again. The Demon Continent''s fate is to perish," Moon Fairy said coldly.

    "Is this the decree of the heavens?" Forbidden Fate wailed.

    "No, it''s my decision." As thisst icy sentence echoed in Forbidden Fate''s ears, his soulpletely plunged into the vortex in the demon fox''s mouth, vanishing into oblivion.

    <i>GULP! </i>Moon Fairy closed his mouth, transforming back into human form. Forbidden Fate''s cries of terror dissipatedpletely within the vast volcano.

    "Whew!" Moon Fairy rxed his shoulders, speaking to the air, "You were right. This second demon magic, born from the Will of Divine Destion, is quite effective." He was addressing Blue Star and Red Moon.

    This second demon magic was named ''God Devourer''! It was one of the original demon magics of one of the Six Ancestral Gods, the Divine Destion Demon God!

    Upon reaching the Awakened Demon Emperor Realm, this magic gradually awakened and strengthened. Its essence was fascinating; it absorbed resentment and converted it into demonic power. While it couldn''t bolster the physical body, it significantly strengthened his sacred demonic power.

    "With Forbidden Fate gone, I can finally rx." Moon Fairy''s fiery eyes gazed down at the ghastly pale fire and magma below. "Now, let''s see how far all this Deste Essence in this volcano will take me."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Eternal Sword Prison! A vast world, ten timesrger than the Divine Continent. And yet, it was just one-ninth of the Nine Hells. So, the Nine Hells were a hundred times the size of the Divine Continent, a trulyplete cosmos with aprehensive system!

    In the Eternal Sword Prison, everyone practiced the Sword Dao. And the pinnacle of swordsmanship, naturally, was the Sword Ruins!

    "The spiritual energy of this Eternal Sword Prison is even higher than the Heavenly Realm after the fall of the great cosmos immortals," Yun Xiao mused.

    This was to be expected. The Divine Continent was just a fold in the vast expanse of the Nine Hells. Aside from the Heavenly Realm and some blessednds like the lower realms, it was hard for even a Dragon Spring Realm cultivator to be born.

    The group, each with their own thoughts, traveled in silence.

    As Moon Fairy annihted Forbidden Fate, Yun Xiao, following the aloof Bai Qingxue on her Sovereign Sword, had already passed through the world channel, arriving at the Sword Ruins!

    Yun Xiao, trailing behind the crowd, looked up.

    <i>HUM! </i>Before him, clouds and mist abounded! Beyond the mist, a zing sun burned, its mes scorching the sky! And within the fiery mes of this sun, stood 999 towering swords!

    Each one stood tens of thousands of meters tall! They were sharp, majestic, boundless! Countless clouds wrapped around these towering swords, even transforming into billions of tiny misty swords, swirling around them, creating an ancient chorus of sword hums!

    This sight was new only to Yun Xiao. As someone from a mortal background, he couldn''t help but be astounded.

    "This is the true holynd of swordsmanship!" Yun Xiao eximed inwardly.

    Compared to the Sword Ruins, ces like Azure Spirit and the Sea of Swords were mere viges and towns. And the towering Sword Heaven was merely one of the many highrises here. The Sword Ruins were a true super sect of swordsmanship!

    "These 999 swords... they''re not real swords, but sword-shaped mountains?" Yun Xiao muttered. As he got closer, the swords appeared evenrger, and he saw more clearly.

    The 999 sword-shaped mountains, where countless Sword Cultivators practiced and dueled... This was the Eternal Sword Prison, the Sword Ruins!

    "The Sword Baptism Ceremony is about to begin. Everyone, head to the altar now!" A voice as cold as a de echoed across thends.

    Yun Xiao hadn''t even approached yet when he saw over a hundred thousand talented Sword Cultivators from all corners of the Eternal Sword Prison. They turned into graceful streaks of sword light across the sky, heading towards the entrance of the Sword Ruins!

    Among these countless young dreamers rushing to the Sword Ruins, many were on par with Gu Baiyi''s disciple, Qian Die.

    This broadened Yun Xiao''s horizons.

    "Indeed, the greater the realm, the more levels there are!" Yun Xiao mused.

    And all this, thanks to the Creator Immortal. The Creator Immortal established the system, set the levels, differentiated the tiers of beings, and personally crafted several pathways to the pinnacle.

    All beings were climbing this staircase. The higher a being, the more control they had over the fate of those below! And now, Yun Xiao was climbing thisdder too!

    "There are so many Seeds of Creation," Yun Xiao muttered. Looking at these diverse and talented Sword Cultivators, he was like a hungry wolf entering a flock of sheep. Although these sheep were tall and strong, they were also tempting!

    "But for now, this sheep seems the fattest!" Yun Xiao nced at Ling Chen beside him. This Divine Sky Sword Emperor was already eagerly anticipating the Sword Baptism Ceremony.

    Today was the most important moment in the life of every Eternal Sword Prison disciple! From now on, whether they would reach the heavens or fade into obscurity depended on the Eternal Sword!

    For countless years, generations of young Sword Cultivators had gathered here... In a single day, some became legends, while others left in obscurity. It was the cruelest day of destiny!

    Nervousness was evident on the faces of every young Sword Cultivator. Even Bai Wuque, from a noble background, was nervous! Luckily, his mother, Bai Qingxue, was there to soothe him before leading them to the altar, into the sea of people.

    In the Sword Ruins ahead, countless powerful figures watched from the sky.

    "The Eternal Sword has descended..." A shout that stirred the hearts of tens of thousands.

 Chapter 248 - Exiled Sword Immortal!

    <h4>Chapter 248 - Exiled Sword Immortal!</h4>

    "Eternal Sword?" Yun Xiao stood behind hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators, his deep eyes peering into the distance.

    In front of the gates of the Sword Ruins, there was a pitch-ck altar, its surface marred with countless sword scars. Though devoid of any physical swords, sword shadows seemed to lurk everywhere.

    The young ones ready to partake in the Sword Baptism Ceremony, along with their elders and masters, all held their breaths in reverence, their eyes shining with a faith-filled gleam as they gazed upon the altar.

    "Here ites!" someone''s voice trembled, murmuring softly.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Suddenly, the 999 Sword Peaks vibrated violently, shaking the rocks and trees, startling birds and beasts. A massive earthquake traveled to Yun Xiao''s feet, sending numerous people staggering, nearly toppling over.

    "That is..." Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed. Between the sword-shaped mountains and valleys, vibrant sword lights in every color imaginable began to soar, piercing the sky. They burst open like brilliant sword fireworks, then descended like a colorful, torrential sword rain towards one spot¡ªthe ck Sword Cleansing Altar.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Those million sword light shadows collided and merged above the altar, quickly forming a colossal, multicolored radiant sword. Stretching over 3,000 meters long, it shone across the heavens and earth with a divine brilliance, dominating the Sword Ruins!

    Its brilliance turned the faces and eyes of hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators into a kaleidoscope of colors. The whole world seemed bathed under a rainbow sun, with dazzling light stretching across thousands of miles of mountains and rivers.

    This was the Eternal Sword!

    "Not a Sword Soul, nor a magic treasure, what exactly is this sword?" Yun Xiao, profoundly shaken, found himself tangled in a web of confusion. He couldn''t help but feel a little awkward! In this realm, it seemed like everyone understood the Eternal Sword. Everyone, that was, except Yun Xiao.

    Even Ling Chen got it. He stood in a corner, his gaze intense, a slight smirk ying at the corners of his mouth.

    "Eternal Sword!" Voices, fervent as if erupting from the hearts of these young Sword Cultivators, revealed their fanaticism for the Eternal Sword.

    "Yun Xiao, are you curious about the Eternal Sword?" Bai Wuque seemed to notice his perplexity. There was a hint of superiority in his bones, but his upbringing kept it in check, making him appear somewhat eager to help.

    "Please enlighten me, Senior Brother Bai," Yun Xiao said.

    "Heh," Bai Wuque chuckled dryly, looking up at the divine brilliance of the enormous Eternal Sword, he said solemnly, "The Eternal Sword is the confluence of the Sword Intent of thousands of ancestors!"

    "The Sword Intent of countless ancestors?" Yun Xiao repeated, puzzled.

    "It''s the Sword Intent left by countless ancestors! Though we say countless, it''s actually in the millions!" Bai Wuque spoke with a hint of pride, "This is the awe-inspiring creation of generations of Sword Dao masters from our Eternal Sword Prison!"

    The implication was clear. Yun Xiao, not belonging to the Eternal Sword Prison, was merely a spectator.

    "Sword Intent, what''s that?" Yun Xiao''s heart stirred. That term again! In his possession was a small ck sword, a gift from a great Cosmic Immortal of the Supreme Azure Star Emperor Immortal Court. It was an embodiment of Sword Intent!

    "You don''t even know Sword Intent?" Bai Wuque chuckled lightly. "No wonder, your fold world has never produced a cultivator of the Dao Heart Realm, no one transcending the Eight Mortal Realms, naturally devoid of Sword Intent."

    "Indeed." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Sword Intent, simply put, is a third form of power extending beyond Sword Aura and Sword Ring. Butpared to Sword Aura and Sword Rings, Sword Intent is more vital, closer to the essence of Sword Soul!"

    "Sword Aura and Sword Rings are superficial powers of the Sword Soul, while Sword Intent is the core willpower of a Sword Soul, linked to the Dao Heart. Possessing a Sword Heart is the key to cultivating Sword Intent!"

    "Sword Intent harmonizes the Sword Soul and Dao Heart, drawing more powerfully on thews of heaven and earth, enhancing the lethal power of us Sword Cultivators!" Longing filled Bai Wuque''s eyes.

    "Sword Intent is that important..." Yun Xiao seemed genuinely intrigued.

    "Naturally! Each person''s Sword Intent is unique. Sword Intent is the true path to the heavens for Sword Cultivators, the evolution of the Dao Heart, the core of cultivating immortality. So, it''s not just aboutbat power but a symbol of enlightenment and innate talent.

    "That''s why, here in the Eternal Sword Prison, high ranks in Sword Soul mean little, nor do numerousyers of Sword Aura. Only a high level of Sword Intent marks a true Sword Immortal!"

    After finishing, Bai Wuque nced at Yun Xiao. "Your Sword Aura is indeedmendable, but that might not suffice for training in the Sword Ruins. Sword Intent is the heart; without a strong heart, Sword Aura and Sword Rings are but fleeting illusions. So, strive hard in the uing Sword Baptism Ceremony!"

    "Thank you for the lesson." Yun Xiao bowed respectfully, his demeanor unflinching as he subtly deted Bai Wuque''s sense of superiority. He looked up at the divine radiance of the Eternal Sword and asked, "So, you''re saying that even though our ancestors are gone, their Sword Intent endures, amalgamating into the Eternal Sword, bestowing blessings upon future generations?"

    That''s why it was named Eternal Sword!

    "Exactly! In normal times, the Eternal Sword gauges the innate talent of disciples for Sword Intent, imparting teachings. But in times of crisis, it bes the foremost weapon of the Sword Ruins, with the power to destroy heavens and obliterate earths, serving as our ultimate deterrent against the other eight hells!" Pride for the Eternal Sword was unmistakable in Bai Wuque''s voice.

    The Sword Cultivators had a faith! The Eternal Sword, embodying the Sword Intent of myriad ns, was their belief.

    The so-called Sword Baptism Ceremony was when all eligible young Sword Cultivators in the Eternal Sword Prison bathed in the divine light of the Eternal Sword, invoking its resonance to measure their Sword Intent talent, thereby determining their status and rank.

    To evoke the sword''s resonance indicated a talent for Sword Intent, a sign of future cultivation of such intent. Sword Intent was the threshold of the Sword Ruins! In the Eternal Sword Prison, a Sword Cultivator without Sword Intent had no path to the heavens.

    The number of times the Eternal Sword resonated determined a young Sword Cultivator''s future status, position, resources, and mentorship in the Sword Ruins. One only got a single chance at the Sword Baptism Ceremony in their lifetime!

    As per the age-old rules of the Sword Ruins¡ª

    One resonance meant bing a Yellow level disciple.

    Two resonances, a ck level disciple.

    Three resonances, an Earth level disciple.

    Four resonances, a Heaven level disciple.

    Five resonances marked an astonishing talent, worthy of being apprenticed to one of the Peak Masters of the 999 Sword Peaks, bing a True Disciple of the Sword Ruins, transcending themon bounds, starting high above others.

    Six resonances indicated a heaven-shaking talent, qualifying for apprenticeship under the Supreme Adjudicators, bing a Supreme Disciple of the Sword Ruins, a statusparable to a Sword Judge, renowned across the world!

    Supreme, True, Heaven, Earth, ck, and Yellow¡ªthese were the six ranks of disciples in the Sword Ruins.

    A single Sword Baptism Ceremony, simple yet brutal, divided everything. While there were instances of disciples surpassing their initial rank throughter cultivation, those were few and far between.

    "The highest is nine resonances, right?" Yun Xiao asked Bai Wuque.

    "Seven, eight, nine resonances are extremely rare urrences in a thousand, ten thousand years, not worth mentioning," Bai Wuque replied nonchntly, seemingly uninterested in discussing such lofty matters with Yun Xiao. He had already taken a few steps forward, eyes fervently fixed on the Eternal Sword!

    And at that moment, the elder in charge of affairs in the Sword Ruins announced the start of the Sword Baptism Ceremony!

    Over a hundred thousand young Sword Cultivators participated, requiring at least a day and a night toplete the assessment!

    Many Sword Cultivators were pushing forward, while Yun Xiao and Ling Chen remained towards the back.

    "Brother Yun, I happen to know what sort ofmotion the Eternal Sword resonating seven, eight, or nine times can cause," Ling Chen suddenly spoke up. He was smiling, appearing rxed as if he were a bystander rather than a participant in the ceremony.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao asked, "Please enlighten me, Brother Ling."

    "Brother Yun, are you thinking of making the Eternal Sword resonate more than seven times?" Ling Chen inquired.

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "Even six resonances make one a Supreme Disciple. Coming from humble beginnings, I would be satisfied with just one resonance to enter the Sword Ruins."

    He thought to himself, smiling, <i>Brother, the one truly concerned about seven, eight, and nine resonances is you... </i>Otherwise, Ling Chen wouldn''t have suddenly interjected.

    Ling Chen, his gaze fixed on the Eternal Sword, began to speak with more intensity, "ording to the rules of the Sword Ruins, seven resonances from the Eternal Sword can make one the Sovereign Star Child of the Sword Ruins, implying the status of a future Sword Star Emperor.

    "At that point, the Sword Warden Gate descends upon the altar, and the Sword Warden of the Sword Ruins will take them as a disciple, designating them as the next heir of the Eternal Sword Prison, with the status of a Supreme Adjudicator, enjoying the highest cultivation resources of the Sword Ruins," Ling Chen said, looking down at his fingers surrounded by a halo of nine-colored light, his eyes deep and thoughtful.

    "Wow, just seven resonances makes you the next heir of the Sword Ruins?" Yun Xiao sighed with amazement. The Sword Ruins really didn''t mess around. He couldn''t help but wonder what eight and nine resonances entailed.

    "Once eight resonances thunder through the heavens, the participant bes a Heavenly Sun Child of the Sword Ruins, symbolizing a divine sword on the path of immortality. They not only receive all the privileges of a Sovereign Star Child but also gain ess to the Ancestral Sword Tomb for cultivation, assimting the Sword Dao of a million ancestors. Such talent, if fully realized, is destined to be the supreme ruler of the Nine Hells, ushering in a golden age of the Sword Dao," Ling Chen said, his voice still calm.

    "Impressive," Yun Xiao nodded, reminded of the War Princess'' Nine-Tiered Bloodline talent, also touted to reach the pinnacle of the Nine Hells. Clearly, the Nine-Tier Bloodline and the eight resonances of the Heavenly Sun Child'' were on par.

    Finally, Yun Xiao asked Ling Chen, "If the Heavenly Sun Child is so formidable, then what about nine resonances? Isn''t that transcendental?"

    Ling Chen smiled wryly. "Nine resonances are but the world''s wishful thinking about the Eternal Sword. Since its existence, no one has ever achieved nine resonances."

    "What if such a prodigy appears today?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "ording to the rules of the Sword Ruins, such a person would be deemed a reincarnation of a true Immortal, a celestial being descending to the mortal realm! The Sword Ruins would bestow upon them the title of Exiled Sword Immortal, granting ess to all resources of the Eternal Sword Prison, equal to the Sword Warden of the Sword Ruins, jointly governing the Eternal Sword Prison!" Ling Chen''s eyes sparkled slightly as he spoke.

    "Exiled Sword Immortal? A true immortal reincarnated, ascending to the heavens in one step?" Yun Xiao murmured. As a mere mortal, he was genuinely moved hearing about these possibilities.

    For the reincarnation of the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, all of this seemed within reach!

    Bai Wuque, Ling Chen, Yun Xiao, how many resonances could they achieve?

    At this moment, all awaited with bated breath. Under the watchful eyes of hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators, the brilliance of the Eternal Sword randomly shone upon a young woman!

    She was none other than Senior Sister Zhaoyu. Trembling, herplexion pale and her delicate body quivering with nervousness, she ascended the Sword Cleansing Altar.

    "Zhaoyu, summon your Sword Soul!" Amanding voice echoed, silencing the tens of thousands gathered, awaiting in hushed anticipation.

 Chapter 249 - Death and Glory by the Blade

    <h4>Chapter 249 - Death and Glory by the de</h4>

    "Zhaoyu, believe in yourself!" Bai Qingxue cheered on from below.

    For the Sword Baptism Ceremony, one needed more than just skill; one needed heart.

    "Yes..." Zhaoyu nced at herpanions, Bai Wuque and herself, feeling a tad more rxed. Her Sword Soul was of a high grade, her cultivation realm no joke, but as for the talent in Sword Intent, that was a whole different kettle of fish. So, it was all up to fate now!

    She took a deep breath and summoned an orange Sword Soul, lifting it high above her head. At that moment, her delicate frame waspletely bathed in the colorful divine radiance of the Eternal Sword.

    This was the Sword Baptism Ceremony!

    And then, as the divine brilliance of the Eternal Sword descended, it collided with her orange Sword Soul. It was like an ant crashing into an army!

    Sword Soul and Sword Intent, in that instant, fused as one. The task of the one undergoing the ritual was to leverage the intent of a million swords with their own. To awaken the resonating hum of the Eternal Sword with a talent for world-altering insight.

    "She''s a descendant of two Sword Judges; she should get at least two or three resonances to enter the Sword Ruins!" whispered many in the crowd.

    In the Eternal Sword Prison, even the offspring of the Sword Warden had to undergo this ritual. Without it, even if one trained in the Sword Ruins, they''dck official status! It was a kind of fairness in the way of the sword.

    "Ah!" Just as people began to murmur, the girl on the altar let out a painful scream and copsed to the ground, her Sword Soul retracting into her body.

    The Eternal Sword, meanwhile, ascended into the sky, its brilliance illuminating the heavens and the earth, but pointedly not shining upon the fallen girl.

    "Zhaoyu!" Bai Wuque''s face changed at this sight.

    "That poor child..." Bai Qingxue bit her red lip, sighing. "From now on, you should keep your distance from her."

    This scene meant one thing. Zhao Yu''s talent for Sword Intent was abysmal¡ªnot even a single resonance from the Eternal Sword. It was a judgment of fate. Despite being a descendant of a Sword Judge, she couldn''t even be a disciple in the Sword Ruins!

    The buzz of whispers from hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators filled the air.

    "What a waste, right?"

    "She''s brought shame to her parents."

    "Her life is ruined now."

    "That girl... she''s always been so arrogant because of her Sword Judge parents. Now she can''t even be the lowliest of disciples in the Sword Ruins. That''s karma, I tell ya!" Many young cultivators secretly reveled in the downfall of someone born so high, now humbled. The Eternal Sword was a harsh reality check.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Zhaoyu felt as if she''d been struck by lightning. Her mind went nk, and she stood there, stupefied, gazing at the multitude of faces showing schadenfreude, disdain, and mockery.

    "Senior Brother Bai..." Zhaoyu called out. Like a wooden puppet, she turned her head, searching the crowd for the man she admired. He had been kind to her, sweet-talking her into surrendering her chastity, a secret she dared not tell her parents. But at this heart-shattering moment, Bai Wuque turned his back, pretending not to know her.

    "Ah... The world is so cruel..." Zhaoyu muttered, the ray of light in her life snuffed out in an instant. Trembling, she clutched her Sword Soul, tears streaming down her face.

    <i>STAB! </i>She plunged the sword into her heart, copsing backward onto the altar, blood sttering everywhere. Thest thing she saw was the brilliant Eternal Sword hanging in the sky, its radiance blessing miles ofnd and endless Sword Cultivators, but not her.

    Hundreds of thousands watched her end with cold indifference.

    "Remove the corpse. Next," came a calm announcement from inside the Sword Ruins.

    A figure in ck ascended the altar, grabbed Zhaoyu''s feet, and dragged her away, leaving a trail of blood. No one bothered to clean the bloodstains. A closer look revealed the altar was already coated withyers of dried blood.

    For thousands of years, countless had died here. They didn''t clean it now because more were expected to end their lives here, bidding farewell to the world. Sometimes, the pressure in cultivation didn''t juste from oneself, but also from family and loved ones...

    A single Sword Baptism Ceremony determined the highs and lows of a lifetime. Such a brutal judgment was too much for many to bear. It wasn''t about fragility. It was purely psychological!

    It was quite tragic. For the poor, there was no great fall from grace, as they never soared high in the first ce. But the rich, tumbling from their lofty heights, often chose death as an escape.

    Zhaoyu''s death was met with indifference by all. But with it came an even greater tension! The hearts of every young Sword Cultivator raced with fear. Who could be sure they wouldn''t be the next one lying on the ground, dragged away?

    "Mother..." Bai Wuque clenched his fists, his eyes bloodshot.

    "It''s okay," Bai Qingxue soothed, gently holding his arm. "Believe in yourself!"

    "Yes!" Bai Wuque nodded.

    "Forget her."

    "Yes!" Bai Wuque closed his eyes slowly, and when he reopened them, they burned with determination.

    One after another, young Sword Cultivators stepped forward. Some walked away, others took their own lives. Some triggered the resonating hum of the Eternal Sword, overwhelmed with joy, kneeling on the ground, tears and snot flowing freely.

    Life forked paths here, some filled with joy, others with sorrow. And behind them, their families and ns either rose to glory or fell into decline, all because of this divergence.

    This was the Eternal Sword Prison!

    A cold world belonging to the way of the sword!

    A world forged by the sword, created by those obsessed with it!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the blink of an eye, tens of thousands had undergone the Sword Baptism Ceremony.

    So far, ny percent of the young Sword Cultivators had been eliminated, forever barred from setting foot in the Sword Ruins.

    The remaining ten percent, mostly with less than four resonances of the Eternal Sword, became disciples of either the Yellow, ck, Earth, or Heaven level¡ªpotentially rising to be future Sword Judges, the backbone of the Sword Ruin''sbat force.

    Out of ten thousand, those who could evoke five resonances of the sword, bing True Disciples of the 999 Peak Masters, were incredibly rare.

    Only eighteen had achieved this so far! As soon as they triggered five resonances, they were whisked away to the Sword Ruins, directly initiated into the fold.

    True Disciples, these were the future elites of the Eternal Sword Prison, destined to be the upper echelons of the Sword Ruins. As for six hums? That was still unseen.

    "Bai Wuque!" When the spotlight hit the young man in white, it signaled his turn.

    Countless scrutinizing eyes were upon him.

    "He''s the grandson of Bai Xiaofeng, one of the Peak Masters of the Sword Ruins!"

    Among all the participants, this was an exceptionally high status.

    "Wuque, may you soar to the heavens," Bai Qingxue said, praying for the sess of her son.

    "Yes!" Bai Wuque, teeth clenched, took a few steps and mounted the blood-stained altar. Better a short pain than a long one! He closed his eyes and offered his Sword Soul to the heavens.

    "Ancestors, please inspect!" Under the watchful eyes of the multitude, the Eternal Sword descended, mingling with his Sword Soul in a dance of light!

    <i>DONG! </i>The first tremble of the Eternal Sword sounded a cold resonance. Hearing this first hum, Bai Wuque''s heart rxed slightly; it meant he wouldn''t die!

    <i>DONG DONG DONG DONG! </i>Four more resonances followed in quick session. Bai Wuque''s eyes snapped open, red with intensity. Five resonances in total¡ªhe was destined to be a True Disciple. Among his n, this was the highest of talents!

    Below, Bai Qingxue covered her mouth, tears brimming in her eyes. Her son had survived this ordeal! The Sword Baptism Ceremony, in many eyes, was a trial of life and death!

    "Is it over?" Bai Wuque wondered, a wild thought blossoming in his heart. Just then, amidst the sea of contenders, a momentous event unfolded!

    <i>DONG!</i> For the first time after ten thousand participants, the Eternal Sword erupted with six resonances.

    "Six resonances of the sword, opening the path to the supreme!" chorused the hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators, their eyes shimmering with awe and envy.

    "I''m a Supreme Disciple?" Bai Wuque was momentarily stunned, then delirious with joy. Following this, the Eternal Sword ascended, marking the end of the Sword Baptism Ceremony.

    "Mother!" Bai Wuque rushed down from the altar, embracing the woman who looked more like his big sister.

    "Wuque, well done! Well done!" Bai Qingxue cried tears of joy, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

    "Mother, what does this mean?" Bai Wuque asked excitedly.

    "It means you''ll surpass your grandfather! It means you''ll lead our Bai Family to a new echelon. One day, you could be a Supreme Adjudicator of the Sword Ruins!" Bai Qingxue said, her voice trembling with emotion.

    It was a true triumph! Inside and outside the Sword Ruins, countless eyes watched them with envy.

    <i>BOOM! </i>From the direction of the Sword Ruins, a sword light shot forth. A middle-aged man in a violet robe and luxurious attire appeared before them. Eyebrows sharp as swords and hair ck as ink, he radiated an overwhelming sword aura. He was the most powerful person Yun Xiao had ever seen, even more intimidating than Old Bai.

 Chapter 250: In the Sword Dao I, Alone, Reign Over All!

    Chapter 250: In the Sword Dao I, Alone, Reign Over All!

    "Supreme Adjudicator Qin Tian!"

    "He''s one of the youngest Supreme Adjudicators, with still more potential to rise!"

    A Supreme Adjudicator of the Sword Ruinsa figure above the clouds of the Nine Hells. When this man appeared, Yun Xiao noticed Ling Chen''s eyes suddenly turn cold, filled with a deep murderous intent.

    "Wuque!" Qin Tian''s eyes zed as he looked at him. "I wish to take you as my disciple. Do you ept?"

    Bai Wuque was still in a daze, but his mother promptly pushed him forward, making him kneel.

    "Disciple Wuque, greets my master!" Bai Wuque dered, his voice full of excitement. Happiness came like a bolt from the blue. He and Zhaoyu, one ascended to the heavens, the other plummeted to hell. Such was the harsh reality of the world.

    "Good!" Qin Tian smiled in satisfaction.

    Around them, envious eyes lingered.

    "Wuque, I''m happy for you, brother," said a young man in violet, walking up behind Qin Tian. He had a straight nose and deep, calcting eyes, seemingly more shrewd than Bai Wuque.

    "Brother Luo," Bai Wuque greeted with a bow and a smile. The two exchanged knowing grins. Everyone looked on in awe and envy.

    Only Ling Chen seethed with murderous intent towards this Qin Tian and Qin Luo, the father-son duo.

    "Ling Chen!" The festivities hadn''t even died down when the elder overseeing the Sword Baptism Ceremony called out the next name.

    "Brother Ling, it''s your turn," Yun Xiao said.

    "Watch me," Ling Chen replied, his tone t but confident. As he stepped onto the altar, hardly anyone paid attention. People were still envying Bai Wuque, who was chatting merrily with his mother and the Qin Family.

    "Ling Chen?" Qin Luo suddenly heard the name and couldn''t help but look back.

    "Why is that kid still alive?" Qin Tian said indifferently.

    "Dad, it''s not easy to find a good toy on the tedious path of sword cultivation," Qin Luo said with a smile.

    "That talk of yours sounds just like a brainless viin," Qin Tian remarked.

    "The thing is, he doesn''t even have a Sword Bone, just a hollow Sword Soul. Can he even be the protagonist?" Qin Luo chuckled.

    "I don''t think so. I''ve been bullying him daily, and never once saw him pull off a dramatic turnaround." Bai Wuque suddenlyughed.

    Hearing this, everyone chuckled lightly.

    "Fine, Qin Tian said, notughing, "In a few days, I''ll find a reason to pin on his parents. Then you quietly finish him off. Such a pitiable person living, he''ll tarnish your future reputation."

    Like that, it appeared Ling Chen would be dead, and soon forgotten. As they conversed, many Sword Cultivators cast curious nces at Ling Chen, their interest piqued.

    "Doesn''t that name sound familiar?"

    "Ling Chen? Isn''t he the cripple of the Ling Family?"

    "Yes, that''s him!"

    "Still alive, huh?"

    "Tough as a cockroach, this one."

    The notoriety of the Ling Family''s outcast sparked some attention, exactly what Qin Tian had hoped to avoid.

    The higher one climbed, the more one valued face. Qin Tian, Qin Luo, the Ling family''s outcast... their intersection easily dredged up old stories and rumors.

    "Didn''t I hear that Qin Luo''s miraculous Sword Bone was taken from this Ling Family''s waste?"

    "Careful with your words, these are just rumors!"

    "The Ling Family, once a prominent n of the Sword Ruins, has fallen so low to find relevance by smearing others?"

    Many looked towards Ling Chen with odd expressions. But the young man seemed oblivious to all the disparagement. He stood under the light of the Eternal Sword, stepped onto the altar amidst Zhaoyu''s blood, and looked up at the sword, his eyes brimming with a fierce light.

    "Your fattenedmb is about to show off," Blue Star jeered.

    Yun Xiao watched the young man with a cold gaze, murmuring, "Let him put on a few more shows, fatten him up a bit."

    The talent of the Seed of Creation in this reincarnated Divine Sky Sword Emperor needed to be gradually stimted. Otherwise, if he had been in by Bai Wuque in the Demon Continent, Yun Xiao could have simply reaped the benefits. The fatter, the better!

    "It starts now!" Ling Chen, with a cold smile, stretched out his hand towards the sky.

    <em>HUM! </em>From his fingertip, a nine-colored Sword Soul burst forth, emitting a brilliant disy of colors,peting with the Eternal Sword above for radiance.

    "Huh?!" Hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators, along with the Sword Ruins''s powerhouses, turned their eyes in shock towards the gray-robed youth.

    "A nine-colored Sword Soul?" No one had ever seen such a thing! This resonance between the nine-colored Sword Soul and the Eternal Sword immediately caused many hearts to skip a beat.

    "What''s that?" Qin Luo and Bai Wuque were momentarily stunned.

    Qin Tian and Bai Qingxue, meanwhile, furrowed their brows.

    Suddenly, an eerie silence enveloped everything.

    "The path to my rebirth begins here!" Ling Chen dered, suddenly raising his sword towards the heavens.

    <em>HUM! </em>The Eternal Sword, as if drawn by a ma, thundered down, converging with the nine-colored Sword Soul. At that moment, it was as though nine immense Immortals and devils encircled the Eternal Sword, causing ripples of spatial distortion. It was like the descent of nine boundless universes!

    <em>DONG! </em>The Eternal Sword hummed once!

    <em>DONG, DONG, DONG, DONG, DONG!</em> And then, in an instant, it hummed five more times!

    Together, that made six resonances so far.

    "A Supreme Disciple!" Bai Wuque and Bai Qingxue were dumbfounded, unable to believe their eyes.

    Qin Tian and Qin Luo exchanged nces. Had they somehow jinxed themselves?

    "See what your mischief has wrought!" Qin Tian scolded, ring at his son. Would he allow Ling Chen a chance at revenge? Of course not!

    Qin Tian stood below the altar, his hand shooting out a beam of sword energy, aiming straight for Ling Chen''s forehead. It was a sudden, deadly attack!

    In that instant, however, Ling Chen started tough.

    <em>DONG! </em>The Eternal Sword hummed for the seventh time!

    This hum shook the heavens and the earth!

    "Seven resonances of the sword, and Sovereign Star Child descends!" Hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators on the scene were shaken, their eyes aze with disbelief as they stared at the so-called waste of the Ling family.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A golden gate of sword energy burst open in front of Ling Chen, swallowing Qin Tian''s sword of ughter.

    "The gate of the Sword Warden opens!" Hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators, in a frenzy like a tidal wave, knelt down, shouting in unison, "All hail the Heavenly Sword Warden!"

    Behind the gate stood a towering figure, bathing in a pool of sword energy, slowly lifting his head to cast an icy gaze upon Qin Tian.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Qin Tian reeled as if struck by thunder, his face twisted in horror. He staggered back three steps, turning deathly pale.

    "Sovereign Star Child, the heir to the Sword Ruins..." Bai Wuque and Bai Qingxue were thunderstruck, their lips turning white.

    "Dad, what''s going on?" Qin Luo clenched his teeth, his eyes bloodshot.

    "Shut up!" Qin Tian roared.

    "Supreme Adjudicator Qin Tian!" Ling Chen, standing as if he were atop the heavens, looked coldly at the middle-aged man in violet. "Is this all it takes to scare you?"

    "How can you... Your sword bone was stolen..." Qin Tian''s voice shook, his fingers trembling.

    "A worthless bone, a gift for your son," Ling Chen said, looking skyward with a cold smile, grasping his sword again. "Without discarding the worthless, how can one attain a divine sword bone? Watch closely!"

    <em>DONG! </em>The Eternal Sword hummed eight times!

    Inside and outside the Sword Ruins, every Sword Cultivator went wild.

    "The Heavenly Sun Child descends! Our Eternal Sword Prison will reign supreme in the Nine Hells!"

    "The Ancestral Sword Tomb opens for him!"

    In the void, a hunched, white-haired old man suddenly appeared, standing above the clouds, his eyes brimming with tears as he gazed at Ling Chen.

    "It''s the Guardian of the Ancestral Sword Tomb, the Withered Bone Keeper!"

    "Never thought I''d live to see this legendary figure!"

    Inside the Sword Ruins, countless Sword Cultivators took to the skies. Outside, tens of thousands knelt, not daring to rise. They beheld Ling Chen, the Sword Warden Gate, and the Withered Bones Keeper, their minds bursting with awe.

    "Ling Chen! The Heavenly Sun Child!" Such cheers echoed through the Sword Ruins. Soon, they would resound throughout the Eternal Sword Prison.

    Qin Tian, Bai Qingxue, and others stood frozen, their eyes cracking with blood.

    Just as Qin Tian was about to kneel, Ling Chen burst intoughter.

    "Hey, hey, hey, is this all it takes to scare you?"

    "What..." Over a million Sword Cultivators were dumbstruck. Was there more? Their eyes turned stiffly towards the Eternal Sword.

    At this moment, Ling Chen raised the nine-colored Sword Soul high, like a reincarnated Immortal. "In the Sword Dao I, alone, reign over all! I am invincible! Invincible under heaven, invincible in the skies, invincible in the universe, invincible through the ages!"

    As his words fell

    <em>DONG! </em>The Eternal Sword erupted with its ninth and final hum.

    At that moment, it seemed the entire Nine Hells trembled in mourning.

    "An Exiled Sword Immortal descends..."

    Everyone was stupefied.

    Only Ling Chenughed.

    And of course, Yun Xiaoughed too.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 251 - Immortal Sword Rankings!

    <h4>Chapter 251 - Immortal Sword Rankings!</h4>

    "Exiled Sword Immortal!" Countless fierce voices, almost tearing their throats, erupted with scorching intensity, shaking heaven and earth. Legend had be reality!

    Tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators, as if in a trance, had eyes only for the proud, unmatched youth in gray. His current splendor and explosive presence were enough to etch a lifelong memory in the minds of all the surrounding Sword Cultivators.

    Witnessing the birth of a myth in person!

    This was a miracle surpassing history!

    "Ling Chen!" This once scorned name of the Ling Family''s discarded son, now resounded through the Nine Hells. Over a million fervent gazes set upon him, pushing him to the pinnacle of all beings!

    All 999 sword-shaped peaks of the Sword Ruins seemed to reverse their course in honor of his current glory! He was like a zing sun, fiercely rising, dazzling the sky, illuminating the Sword Souls of the entire Eternal Sword Prison.

    "Ling Chen." A deep voice emerged from the Sword Warden Gate, "The history of the Nine Hells will start a new chapter with you. You are the unparalleled Exiled Sword Immortal from ancient times. From now on, the Eternal Sword Prison fights for you!"

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The words of the Sword Warden confirmed the legitimacy of this Exiled Sword Immortal.

    It was madness! Complete madness! Inside the Sword Ruins, a hundred thousand Sword Judges appeared, gazing at the graceful youth in gray as if beholding a miracle.

    Disciples from every level¡ªYellow, ck, Earth, Heaven, True, and Supreme.... All looked up at Ling Chen in deep admiration and reverence.

    Even the Supreme Adjudicators and Overseers, beings ordinarily invisible tomon folks, now appeared under the Sword Baptism Ceremony altar. Their swords could stir the clouds and thunder, awe-inspiring to all. Yet, before the nine sounds of the Eternal Sword, they too felt diminutive.

    Even these lofty pinnacle masters of the Sword Dao, at this moment, looked up to Ling Chen just like ordinary disciples.

    "Exiled Sword Immortal!" Another wave of deafening cheers swept across the vastnds of the Eternal Sword Prison. Only by witnessing this moment could one understand the Eternal Sword Prison''s reverence for the Exiled Sword Immortal.

    This was truly a meteoric rise to the heavens!

    The Sword Warden, the Withered Bone Keeper, Overseers, and other powerful figures of the Sword Ruins had personally dered their allegiance to Ling Chen. In the Nine Hells, who else could now harm him, even in the slightest?

    Ling Chen watched the scene unfold, a slight smile curling at the corners of his mouth. He was the picture of calm. All of this was within his control. Bathed in the divine radiance of the Eternal Sword, his eyes suddenly locked onto a middle-aged man in violet robes¡ªQin Tian!

    <i>BANG! </i>Qin Tian spread his arms wide, prostrating and kneeling on the ground, his eyes red with desperation, mming his head on the ground. "Exalted Exiled Sword Immortal! I was blind and have wronged you. I beg for your mercy, considering my Qin Family''s generations of dedication to the Sword Ruins. Please spare my worthless life..."

    "Silence!" Among the group of terrifyingly powerful figures, an old man with white hair but a youthful face stepped forward. His icy gaze fixed on Qin Tian, he spoke chillingly. "Qin Tian, as a Supreme Adjudicator, you dared to plot against the son of two heroes of the Sword Ruins. This crime warrants the death penalty in the Sword Ruins!"

    "Overseer Sikong!"

    To many Sword Cultivators, Overseer Sikong was a legendary figure, his stories enough to fill a hefty tome.

    Overseer Sikong respectfully stepped forward towards Ling Chen, seeking permission. "I request the Exiled Sword Immortal''s judgment. This man deserves his fate. May I execute him?"

    Everyone knew the Ling Family''s discarded son had been suffering for more than just a year or two. Qin Tian had been untouchable before, but now, he faced death. All because of the Exiled Sword Immortal. Such was the harsh reality of their world.

    On the altar, Ling Chen raised an eyebrow at the trembling Qin Tian and chuckled coldly. "Scared now? How dull." After speaking, he waved his hand dismissively at Overseer Sikong, "Do it."

    "Yes!" Overseer Sikong sighed in relief! Qin Tian was his disciple. If he had erred, it was best to dispose of him swiftly.

    A changing of the guard was taking ce in the Sword Ruins!

    As Overseer Sikong nodded, he suddenly flung a Flying Sword from his hand! <i>WHOOSH! </i>The sword, too fast for Yun Xiao to see, pierced through Qin Tian''s head.

    <i>SPLATTER! </i>Qin Tian''s head exploded, his trembling body copsing lifelessly. With a loud explosion, the Flying Sword''s momentum swept into the heavens, the sky and earth changing colors. A storm of thunder and lightning spread across the sky, unleashing countless bolts of electricity!

    "This, this is the essence of the sword!" Yun Xiao''s eyes burned with emotion. That sword strike was formidable! Qin Tian was dead in an instant!

    <i>THUD! </i>Behind him, one after another, the knees of the Qin Family members buckled, copsing to the ground, weeping uncontrobly. They pleaded desperately.

    "We beg the Exiled Sword Immortal for mercy!"

    "Qin Tian and his son Qin Luo deserve death for their crimes, but we are innocent..."

    And young Qin Luo, pale as a ghost behind his father''s headless corpse, trembled from head to toe, even his eyshes quivering.

    Nearby, Bai Qingxue and her son Bai Wuque were already pale with fear.

    What would happen to them?

    Everyone looked towards the Exiled Sword Immortal with awe.

    Atop the altar, Ling Chen shook his head and chuckled, musing to himself. "Sure enough, the stronger the reborn, the swifter the revenge. Those who flounder for months after rebirth are probably just failures reborn, right?"

    After his reflection, he dropped the smile, casting a cold nce at the Qin Family members, and said icily, "Those who abet tyranny share the guilt with the mastermind. I decree the Qin Family''s extinction. Any objections?"

    <i>BUZZ! </i>A shock went through the crowd as they gazed at the Qin Family, including many children and elders, speechless. They knew, this Exiled Sword Immortal was not one for mercy.

    "This is what you call decisive action!" Many young people felt a surge of admiration.

    "As youmand!" Overseer Sikong, ever the loyal follower, shed a cold look in his eyes and ordered the execution of the frantic Qin Family members.

    <i>THUD! </i>Upon hearing this, Qin Luo finally copsed to his knees, looking helplessly at Ling Chen, a chill running down his spine.

    "Spare Qin Luo!" Just as Overseer Sikong was about to execute the Qin Family, Ling Chen suddenly raised an eyebrow and said with a smile.

    "I..." Qin Luo''s eyes dimmed, staring nkly at the once scorned son of the Ling Family.

    Seeing everyone''s confusion, Ling Chen chuckled and dered, "Ladies and gentlemen, although I am gifted, I understand one thing. Talent is just a starting point. Before achieving greatness, a genius is no different from a de of grass! For me, the priority is to turn the talent of the Exiled Sword Immortal into tangible strength andbat power, step by step."

    "Exactly!" Overseer Sikong agreed.

    While most of the powerhouses remained silent, Ling Chen nced at Qin Luo and spoke earnestly, "Although I am the Exiled Sword Immortal, after taking my revenge on the Qin Family, I don''t wish to abuse my privileges. Coming up, it''s time for the talented of the Sword Ruins topete in swordsmanship. When the Immortal Sword Rankings is named, I will join the Sword Cultivators in the contest!"

    This statement earned Ling Chen newfound respect from the crowd. He willingly gave up his power, seeking only topete in talent. The Exiled Sword Immortal, though lofty, was not aloof.

    "Qin Luo!" Ling Chen raised an eyebrow at him, "Get ready. In the Immortal Sword Rankings, I will defeat you with mybat skills!"

    This promation sent a shock through the audience.

    "The Exiled Sword Immortal is only in the Saint Realm, while Qin Luo has awakened his Dao Heart and is already a top contender on the Immortal Sword Rankings, nearly ten stages higher! Can he really defeat Qin Luo in such a short time?"

    "Even as the Exiled Sword Immortal, that''s a matter of Sword Intent talent, not cultivation, right?"

    "Is he overestimating himself?"

    The crowd watched Ling Chen with mixed feelings.

    Yun Xiao, however, saw right through it. "This so-called renouncing of status and power to engage in a pure duel of swordsmanship is just a ploy to attract mockery and then spectacrly defy expectations."

    Yun Xiao was familiar with this tactic, but he wouldn''t y it so bluntly. Yet, as it turned out, such dramatics won over hearts.

    Ling Chen''s focus on the Immortal Sword Rankings sparked immense anticipation among the Sword Cultivators! Even earth-shattering talent had to be converted into strength!

    "The grand Exiled Sword Immortal, why worry about any challenge in his path of growth? Rest assured, he has spoken, and he will surely top the Immortal Sword Rankings, no matter how short the time. He will definitely top the ranking!"

    "Which peerless powerhouse hasn¡¯t fought their way to the top?"

    "True!"

    Hearing these discussions, Qin Luo finally snapped back to reality. Gritting his teeth, he stared at Ling Chen. "Fine! Fine! If you insist on seeking death, don''t me me!" He stood up abruptly, stepping over the corpses of his Qin family, his eyes blood-red as he left at his life''s nadir.

    "The Sword Baptism Ceremony may continue!" Suddenly, the voice of the Sword Warden echoed from the gate.

    "Yes!" The elder overseeing the ceremony nodded.

    "Exiled Sword Immortal, please!"

    Overseer Sikong, leading all the Supreme Adjudicators and other seniors, respectfully invited Ling Chen down from the altar and into the Sword Ruins to embark on his brilliant journey.

    "Esteemed seniors, please, you''re too kind. You tter me," Ling Chen said, scratching his head with a sunny smile. His affability soared instantly!

    The Supreme Adjudicators and other seniors of the Sword Ruins chuckled and then led Ling Chen into the ruins, departing with him in tow. As he left, it seemed as though he took all the attention with him into the Sword Ruins, even stealing the limelight from the Sword Baptism Ceremony.

    Keep in mind, ny percent of the people hadn''t yet undergone the ceremony! Many around were already preparing to leave, eager to spread the sensational news about the Exiled Sword Immortal.

    Almost all the seniors, Supreme Adjudicators, Sword Judges, and disciples followed Ling Chen into the Sword Ruins.

    For a moment, even the Eternal Sword seemed to dim!

    "Damn, just like that, he forgets his lifesaver outside. Couldn''t he at least show some concern?" Yun Xiao said with a mix ofughter and tears.

    "You, a mere extra, expecting a role?" Blue Star scoffed.

    "Quick, write yourself into the script!" Red Moon cackled.

    "Forget it!" Yun Xiao actually didn''t know how his Sword Intent talent measured up. All he knew was, the fatter Ling Chen got, the happier he''d be! So, he didn''t mind Ling Chen skyrocketing to fame, drawing all the attention. The faster Ling Chen hoarded resources, the better for Yun Xiao to strike.

    As for the nine resonances of the Eternal Sword, that was the true skill of the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, beyond reproach.

    "The Sword Warden Gate, and ess to the Ancestral Sword Tomb... not bad at all!" Yun Xiao sighed. Such status, position, and resources were exactly what he coveted. He didn''t even need to acquire everything at once. Just having a footing in the Eternal Sword Prison, with his resources, was enough for a terrifying ascent.

    "But how much I can gain isn''t up to me. It depends on how many times the Eternal Sword resonates," Yun Xiao mused.

    After Ling Chen''s splendid entry, the Sword Baptism Ceremony continued, but the excitement had fizzled out. Even when a disciple who caused the Eternal Sword to resonate six times appeared, it seemed dull.

    Ling Chen, the Exiled Sword Immortal¡ªthis was the only thing that upied everyone''s minds, leaving no room for anything else. Everything else lost its vor! Only the young Sword Cultivators ascending the altar felt tense.

    "Honestly, discounting the Exiled Sword Immortal, this is still the best batch in decades."

    "Pity these kids got their limelight stolen by the Exiled Sword Immortal."

    "What''s there to say? The worth of one Exiled Sword Immortal equals countless generations of talented Sword Cultivators!"

    "True!"

    As time passed amidst such discussions, the crowd at the altar dwindled. Before anyone knew it, a day had passed!

    Yun Xiao, bored out of his mind, had even advanced to the Late Saint Realm. After his breakthrough, he looked up to find that nearly all of the hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators had left, and most of the spectators inside the Sword Ruins had returned home.

    Dusk fell, and the Eternal Sword shone even brighter, its colorful radiance enveloping the Sword Ruins in a kaleidoscope of colors! From inside the Sword Ruins, cheers still echoed, the Sword Cultivators excited about the Exiled Sword Immortal''s arrival. Those left outside were a forgotten bunch.

    "Yun Xiao!" When the elder overseeing the ceremony for the Sword Ruins called his name, Yun Xiao realized he was thest one left!

 Chapter 252 - Ten Resonances, Supremacy Over All Swords?

    <h4>Chapter 252 - Ten Resonances, Supremacy Over All Swords?</h4>

    In a world where attention was a currency, Ling Chen was a millionaire, but Yun Xiao... well, he was more like a penny in a fountain.

    It was already dark by the time it was his turn. The crowd had dwindled to a handful of stragglers and a bored janitor sweeping up. Yun Xiao wasst on the list because he''d shown upte, and in the Sword Baptism Ceremony, there was no such thing as saving the best forst. Theters were usually nobodies.

    "Go on," the elder in charge of the ceremony said, his voice as tired as a marathon runner. He was just waiting for Yun Xiao to finish so he could clock out.

    "Right," Yun Xiao agreed. He stepped onto the ck altar, his feet squishing in a thickyer of dried blood. He stood under the dazzling, multi-colored Eternal Sword, suspended above.

    The night was a quietpanion, and the breeze carried a hint of coolness. The air was thick with the scent of blood and the lingering enthusiasm for the Sword Judge.

    "Ah, the path to immortality, crawling with demons and devils, swarming with gods and Immortals from every corner. It''s a regr circus," Yun Xiao mused to himself, intrigued. Was this chaos because the Creator Immortal had fallen, throwing the cosmic order into disarray?

    Breathing out a murky breath, Yun Xiao felt a strange calm settle in his heart. "Come on!" he called, alone, standing between heaven and earth. He drew his three-foot azure de, gazing at the Eternal Sword, glowing a thousand feet tall.

    "Sword, descend!" The Eternal Sword trembled slightly, just as it had before, gradually descending to meet the tip of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "A million Sword Intents!" Yun Xiao hadn''t yet formed a Dao Heart. So, there was nothing to bridge his Sword Soul with the Eternal Sword.

    But the moment those million Sword Intents touched Heaven Burial, he felt like he''d plunged into a colorful sea of swords. In this vast ocean, every sword seemed toe alive, turning yful and interesting, like sprites dancing around Yun Xiao.

    "So, Sword Intent is like life?" Yu Xiao wondered aloud. No wonder they all thought Sword Intent was so crucial. He got it in an instant. This wasn''t life in the ordinary sense, but a kind of spirit, existing in the universe, formed from concentrated thought.

    The Sword Soul might perish, but the Sword Intent lived forever!

    In a sh, Yun Xiao''s mind was engulfed in a storm of Sword Intents. A million of them whirred past, leaving a trail of vibrant colors in his pupils.

    In the hush of the night, everything was eerily quiet, except for Yun Xiao slowly closing his eyes, a warm, peaceful smile hiding at the corner of his lips.

    "Not a peep, huh?" The elder overseeing the ceremony sighed. He''d seen Yun Xiao''s impressive Sword Aura and thought he''d be the grand finale, a true prodigy. It turned out the kid couldn''t even enter the Sword Ruins! Well, that meant he was just another passerby on the road to the Eternal Sword Prison.

    The elder stood up, ready to pack up and leave. But then¡ª

    <i>DONG, DONG, DONG, DONG, DONG, DONG! </i>The night echoed with six clear, hurried hums of the Eternal Sword. It sounded particrly crisp and melodious in the quiet of the night.

    "A Supreme Disciple?" The elder''s eyes lit up. He turned back, relieved, looking at Yun Xiao and beckoned to his disciples, "Go to the Adjudicator Pavilion, tell the Supreme Adjudicators that thest one in the Sword Baptism Ceremony is a Supreme Disciple. They shoulde and take him as a pupil."

    "Yes!" The disciples nced enviously at Yun Xiao and scurried off. They didn''t need to say much. Those urgent, continuous six resonances had already spread throughout the Sword Ruins, drawing a lot of attention.

    Sword Cultivators, who were about to leave, were now drawn to the Sword Cleansing Altar by the six hums. Just as everyone''s gaze shifted back to the altar, another clear hum of the Eternal Sword echoed through the sky.

    <i>DONG!</i>

    "Seven resonances, the Sword Warden Gate opens! A Sovereign Star Child?" The elder was stunned, his gaze fixated. Indeed, in front of the young man in white, the golden gate of the Sword Gate opened again!

    A towering figure appeared within, equally surprised at Yun Xiao.

    "Today, in the Sword Ruins, we witness the birth of an Exiled Sword Immortal and a Sovereign Star Child?"

    <i>BOOM! </i>The Sword Ruins trembled. Many people heard themotion and rushed back. And those who had left, hearing the uproar, immediately turned their Sovereign Swords around and headed back.

    Tens of thousands of Sword Judges, hundreds of Peak Masters, a dozen Supreme Adjudicators, and even the venerable Overseer Sikong, all flew out on their Sovereign Swords, their gazes fixated on Yun Xiao.

    "Who''s this kid?"

    "I don''t know him, never seen him before."

    Confusion reigned among the masses.

    Even the mighty ones of the Sword Ruins were baffled.

    "It''s him!" In a corner, the already pale-faced Bai Wuque copsed to the ground.

    "How can this be..." His mother, Bai Qingxue, also seemed unsteady, her beautiful eyes filled with bewilderment. She brought back two wallflowers to make her son''s brilliance shine all the more. Yet, one turned out to be an Exiled Sword Immortal, and the other a Sovereign Star Child?

    Bai Wuque, who had surpassed his grandfather, now seemed as insignificant as a stray dog in front of these two monsters.

    "Our Eternal Sword Prison has produced another swordsmanship genius!"

    The previously silent night boiled over once more. It wasn''t as grand as the daytime event, but it was a beautiful finale nheless.

    Suddenly, amidst the trembling of the Eternal Sword, an eighth resonance burst forth!

    <i>DONG!</i>

    A sound that shook the world.

    "Eight resonances, a Heavenly Sun Child!" Bai Wuque gasped for air.

    "This..." Bai Qingxue tightly gripped her son''s arm, fearing his heart might crumble.

    The Sword Ruins were thoroughly shaken. Peak Masters, Supreme Adjudicators, and Overseers streamed out. From the distantnds, countless people returned on their Sovereign Swords to witness this unbelievable miracle.

    Even the Heavenly Sword Warden stood up again, his eyes zing like wildfires.

    "One Heavenly Sun Child is enough for our Eternal Sword Prison to dominate the Nine Hells. And now..."

    It was absolute madness, yet again...! What had been a cooling Sword Baptism Ceremony now nearly reached its zenith again. Countless hearts and minds surged out of the Sword Ruins, converging above Yun Xiao!

    And in front of the Ancestral Sword Tomb, Ling Chen was about to step in with the Withered Bone Keeper.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The Ancestral Sword Tomb shook once more, unfurling a majestic path that extended to the Sword Cleansing Altar!

    Ling Chen and the Withered Bone Keeper were suddenly thrust into the limelight, appearing before the awe-struck crowd.

    "Huh? He got eight resonances?" Ling Chen caught sight of Yun Xiao, his face a picture of disbelief, quickly reced by a smile.

    "No wonder he chose to save me; he must be a man of great destiny. With him, he could indeed be my shadow, apanying me in battles across thends," he thought, quite pleased with himself.

    Ling Chen felt genuinely happy for Yun Xiao. "Too bad I set the bar high. Otherwise, today, you would''ve been the unrivaled star of this realm, basking in all its glory."

    Ling Chen''s smile grew as he watched Yun Xiao, his fondness for the young man evident.

    Suddenly¡ª

    <i>DONG!</i> The Eternal Sword let out the loudest ring in history.

    In that instant, Ling Chen''s smile froze, his eyes shifting from perplexity to a growing coldness... He was the only one like this.

    The whole world was holding its breath.

    "An Exiled Sword Immortal!"

    "A second Exiled Sword Immortal!"

    Two miracles, once thought impossible to ur on the same day?

    The Sword Ruins erupted! So did the Eternal Sword Prison! Every soul was moved to tears at this moment. Even the Overseers of the Sword Ruins knelt down. "Thank the forefathers! Thank the heavens!"

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The Sword Warden of the Eternal Sword Prison and Withered Bone Keeper appeared before Yun Xiao, their eyes zing, speechless.

    Over a million people gathered, their excited words stuck in their throats!

    The cheers were like a tidal wave, overwhelming and joyous.

    It was as if the entire world had caught fire.

    "Mother..." Bai Wuque knelt down, his spirit nearly shattered. He couldn''t make heads or tails of this mystifying world anymore.

    "An Exiled Sword Immortal..." High above, Ling Chen''s eyes were deep pools of contemtion as he gazed at Yun Xiao for a long, long time. "How interesting! A mere mortal matching the gods? Even at my weakest, this is a glory worth a lifetime," he mused, just as everyone was still celebrating the birth of a second Exiled Sword Immortal.

    But then¡ª

    <i>DONG! </i>Another, even louder resonance thundered through heaven and earth. This hum from the Eternal Sword silenced all the revelry. After the hum, a hush fell.

    Everyone, including the Sword Warden and a million others, stared wide-eyed at Yun Xiao and the Eternal Sword, dumbstruck.

    "Ten resonances? What does that mean?"

    Countless people exchanged bewildered looks, their minds nk.

    "Our ancestors never recorded such a thing..."

    Now, they were truly bbergasted.

    "This means, his Sword Intent talent surpasses even that of an Exiled Sword Immortal!" Overseer Sikong''s voice trembled with excitement, roaring out the revtion.

    The ce erupted!

    "AHHHH!" A cacophony of voices merged, their words indistinguishable. But one thing was clear; they were ecstatic! This frenzy surpassed even that for Ling Chen!

    It was evident that both the Sword Warden and the Withered Bone Keeper didn''t deny Overseer Sikong''s statement. They even stood before Yun Xiao, as if weing the arrival of a new king!

    And Ling Chen, he was the new king but for half a day...

    "Ten resonances, the Supreme of All Dao!" The cheers were earth-shattering, almost ttening Yun Xiao under their weight. This was the pinnacle moment of the Sword Baptism Ceremony, surpassing even that of Ling Chen!

    There was Ling Chen, suspended in mid-air, staring at Yun Xiao with an expression of utter disbelief. "Impossible!" His sword-like eyebrows furrowed deeply.

    The overwhelming cheers hadpletely overshadowed him, stealing his limelight clean away.

    "Yun Xiao? What''s up with you?" Ling Chen''s eyes shed with sword light, his heart in turmoil. How could he, the reborn Divine Sky Sword Emperor, be eclipsed by a mere mortal? He was invincible!

    "Damn!" Yun Xiao, too, was frowning. When the ninth resonance sounded, he thought that was plenty. He was ready to withdraw his sword and start enjoying the perks of being an Exiled Sword Immortal. But then he found that the Heaven Burial Sword Soul was stuck to the Eternal Sword!

    It was stuck so tight; he couldn''t pull it off! So, the unprecedented ten resonances just happened.

    "Whatever, ten resonances it is then." Yun Xiao looked around, clearly seeing his talent had conquered this slice of heaven and earth.

    After the tenth resonance, he was ready to pull out his sword.

    "Damn?" He tugged hard, but it wouldn''t budge! In a daze, Yun Xiao felt like the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand was a dog, and the Eternal Sword was a juicy bone it had found... Despite his desperate tugging, the hungry dog wouldn''t let go!

    "Come on! Stop messing around!" Yun Xiao mustered all his strength and yanked hard! The Heaven Burial Sword Soul didn''t move an inch!

    <i>DONG, DONG, DONG... </i>The Eternal Sword hummed ten more times! Each of these ten hums was louder than thest, echoing for miles!

    "Damn?" Even Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    Twenty resonances from the Eternal Sword? These hums from eleven to twenty swept through, thoroughly quelling the boiling Sword Ruins! After the hums subsided, over a million Sword Cultivators gawked at Yun Xiao and the Eternal Sword, struck speechless.

    "Twenty! Twenty!" It took a long while before someone finally managed to shout, their voice hoarse and trembling.

    Twenty resonances! What kind of monster was this?

    The Sword Warden, the Withered Bone Keeper, and several Overseers of the Sword Ruins stared nkly at Yun Xiao and the Eternal Sword.

    Ling Chen stepped back, his gaze at Yun Xiao sharpening like the edge of a sword.

    "Let go!" Yun Xiao was at his wit''s end, "Enough, no more humming!" He tugged hard at his sword, but instead of retreating, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul bit even deeper. It plunged into the Eternal Sword, starting to devour its Sword Intent! It was literally eating it!

    "This isn''t right..." Yun Xiao''s vision darkened. The Eternal Sword was the testing sword of the Sword Ruins for generations and the ultimate weapon in times of crisis!

    "Everyone look¡ª"

    A cry pierced the night.

    "Why is the Eternal Sword twitching?"

    This was the faith of all Sword Cultivators, the sword intent of a million ancestors, the soul of the Sword Ruins! And it was truly twitching! Not just twitching, but <i>screaming</i> with hums.

    <i>DONG, DONG, DONG...! </i>Each hum sounded once in a breath, each louder than Ling Chen''s ninth hum.

    Before people could even grasp what was happening, the Eternal Sword''s hums had already surpassed a hundred resonances! And it kept going, with no sign of stopping...!

    <i>DONG, DONG, DONG, DONG, DONG... </i>It grew more urgent, more thunderous.

    "What''s going on..." A million Sword Cultivators of the Sword Ruins were parched and bewildered, each more clueless than thest.

    <i>DONG, DONG, DONG...</i>

    It continued! Yun Xiao and the Eternal Sword seemed frozen atop the altar.

    Everyone else stood like statues, motionless. The whole world was filled only with the sound of the sword ringing, continuously reverberating through the Eternal Sword Prison.

    Half an hourter...

    "It''s hummed 1,000 times!"

    Half a dayter...

    "It''s hummed 10,000 times!"

    On the third day...

    "My primordial ancestor of the dao... It''s hummed 100,000 times...!"

    Seven resonances, a millennium rarity, heralding the birth of a Sovereign Star Child.

    Eight resonances, unseen in ten thousand years, a Heavenly Sun Child descends.

    Nine resonances, a historical miracle, the reincarnation of an Exiled Sword Immortal.

    Finally, 100,000 resonances, what in the mother of all creation had descended!?

    Three dayster, around the altar, tens of millions had gathered! They had be like petrified trees, staring transfixed at the young man in white and the now dim and feeble-looking Eternal Sword.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Finally, at a certain moment, the radiance of the Eternal Sword dissipated like fireworks.

    The Sword Baptism Ceremony seemed to have ended.

    However, Yun Xiao knew that from this moment on, the Eternal Sword Prison would never get to see another Sword Baptism Ceremony again...

 Chapter 253 - No Disturbances!

    <h4>Chapter 253 - No Disturbances!</h4>

    "Why the heck did it ring 100,000 times!?" Yun Xiao had been baffled for three whole days. He knew his talent in the Sword Dao was top-notch. He''d improved the 10-Step Scale to 20 steps, derived theplete version of Sun Moon Divine Light from an iplete manual, and instantly mastered several hundred daoist spells! But to make the Eternal Sword hum 100,000 times? That seemed a tad overkill!

    Yun Xiao had been expecting, maybe, a modest dozen or so resonances at most...

    "Creator, that little sword ve there only got nine resonances because nine was his limit, But you know... you only got 100,000 hums because that''s all the Eternal Sword could handle. If it were up to the task, you could''ve kept going until the end of time!" Blue Star exined with an eye roll, nestled in his embrace.

    "No way. You''re kidding, right?" Yun Xiao asked. It took three days for the Eternal Sword to hum 100,000 times. What would ¡°until the end of time be¡±? We''d be talking quintillion upon quintillions of times, and even then that wouldn''t be enough!

    "Nonsense! Look here, dummy. The math is simple. 100,000 is more than 10,000 times greater than nine. In your past life, you were way more than 10,000 times stronger than that little sword ve at his peak!" Blue Star chuckled.

    "He was that weak in his past life?" Yun Xiao asked, eyes wide. He couldn''t help but wonder if his benchmark was just too low?

    "Pathetically weak. He was only about a hundred times stronger than that Cosmic Sword Immortal you sawst time. Nothing to write home about." Blue Star scoffed.

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless. This was a being who''d in Ye Xingchen''s parents with a single stroke of the sword! And Ling Chen''s past life was a hundred times stronger than that! Yet, that was supposedly nothing to write home about?

    "Look at this world, the heavens, the myriad of things, thews, the universe... Everything exists because of you. Without you, this ce would be nothing but a barren, primordial void! Everything in this universe stems from you, including those lofty Immortals.

    "All these emperors, ancestors, Immortals, reincarnated to cultivate again, were once mere specks of dust on your body. So, do you now understand what a Creator Immortal really is?" Blue Star said profoundly.

    "I''m just a mortal, what do I know?" Yun Xiao responded, dumbfounded.

    "Mortal? Right, you''re just a shell, and quite an empty one at that! It was only when the Eternal Sword touched your Creator Immoral root that such amotion urred... And remember, those 100,000 resonances only represent your talent for understanding. It doesn''t mean all your talents are necessarily that terrifying. The fact that you''re able to hold onto your mortal heart amidst all this ismendable in itself," Blue Star said, sounding ancient and wise.

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao felt all of this was too nebulous, like a fleeting dream of life. He couldn''t feel the grandeur of the Creator Immortal, a god of creation. At his core, in this body, was a mortal heart, a vast, heaven-devouring breath!

    This marked the difference between Yun Xiao and the reincarnation of the Divine Sky Sword Emperor. Ling Chen embodied the body of a mortal with the heart of a diety, the very opposite of Yun Xiao.

    "Take it slow. The Nine Hells have over a million Seeds of Creation, of all types! Your Nine Dragons Dantian and Nine Heavens Star Meridians are bursting at the seams, unable to withstand the advance of the Primordial Void Technique into the Second Dao Tribtion. You need to stock up," Blue Star advised.

    The Dao Tribtion was the heavenly path of Immortal cultivation, adder of ascension.

    The First Dao Tribtion epassed the Eight Mortal Realms, while the Second Dao Tribtion started with the Dao Heart Realm, with the Dao Heart and Sword Intent at its core.

    "Today, by absorbing a million Sword Intents with your Heaven Burial Sword Soul, you basically got a huge head start on your Second Dao Tribtion. When you gather your own Sword Intent, the Sword Intent left behind by that Sword Immortal from the Supreme Azure Star Emperor Immortal Court, along with these million Sword Intents, shoulde in handy," Blue Star said, expectantly.

    "So, what you''re saying is, it''s of no use to me now?"

    "You''re still in the Saint Realm, how could you use it? It''s like giving a three-year-old a hundred beauties; what''s he gonna do?" Blue Star scoffed. A fitting analogy, indeed.

    "Give me those beauties, I''ll find a use for them!" Red Moon''s eyes sparkled at the mention.

    "In the Sword Ruins, there are beauties aplenty," Blue Star said with a mischievous grin.

    "Great! I''ll pick a woman cow then," Red Moon eximed, excitedly.

    The Sword Baptism Ceremony was ending, and it was almost time to enter the Sword Ruins.

    "Sword Intent!" Yun Xiao watched as a million vibrant Sword Intents were devoured by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, finally converging on the blue lotus core. It was still in bud form, a mere embryo.

    A million Sword Intents, swirling like a floral gand, gradually merged into the blue lotus. Like a greedy infant, it absorbed the nourishment, showing signs of growth as its petals shimmered in a multicolored brilliance.

    "Beautiful!" This indicated that Yun Xiao''s future Sword Intent would likely be rted to this blue lotus, hatched from the Primordial Coffin within the Heaven Burial Source. It held the secret core of all things!

    The Primordial Coffin and the Dao Source, mysteries even the Creator Immortal couldn''t fathom! So, for Yun Xiao, the Demon Continent was more important than he had imagined.

    "100,000 resonances...." Yun Xiao muttered. Having silently devoured the Eternal Sword, Yun Xiao knew the next steps were crucial. What would the Sword Cultivators of the Eternal Sword Prison make of this event? It hadpletely shattered their imaginations!

    "One shock beyond the norm, and folks can still handle it... But a hundred thousand times over? That''s a whole different kettle of fish." Yun Xiao mused. The only saving grace was that they probably didn''t know that the Eternal Sword hadn''t just returned to its ancestral silence. It had been devoured by Yun Xiao!

    With a hum, as the radiance of the Eternal Sword fully dissipated, the sky turned utterly dark. On that ck altar, there stood a white-robed young man, calm as a summer breeze.

    He turned around to look. Every notable figure was there¡ªthe Sword Warden of the Eternal Sword Prison, Withered Bone Keeper, Ling Chen, Supreme Adjudicators, Peak Masters, and various other elders... all present.

    Millions of Sword Cultivators who had rushed from all corners of the Eternal Sword Prison stood dumbfounded, their gazes fixed on Yun Xiao. Who exactly was this young man?

    Bai Qingxue had already informed the higher-ups of the Sword Ruins about his identity. The leadership decided not to mention the Heavenly Land, only revealing to the outside world that the young man was named Yun Xiao, nothing more.

    Countless people exchanged looks, wordlessly. The entire Sword Ruins seemed to have sunk into an absurd sea, everyone''s senses blocked as if by seawater. Finally, the Sword Warden of the Eternal Sword Prison arrived with his entourage at the ck altar.

    "Wait quietly for the conclusion, no disturbances!" the Sword Warden dered.

    Immediately, a formation rose around the altar, enveloping Yun Xiao and the high echelons of the Sword Ruins, sealing thempletely. Even the Supreme Adjudicators had no right to enter the altar, indicating the extreme importance of this secret meeting.

    As the formation rose, the millions outside dared not make a noise, but they still whispered among themselves.

    "What do you think Sword Ruins will make of him?"

    "I don''t know. Seven or eight resonances, maybe, but 100,000? The only possibility is that there was something wrong with the Eternal Sword."

    "Indeed! But I feel this guy''s talent must also be extraordinary, to have caused such a reaction from the Eternal Sword. Too bad he was thest one; even if they wanted to retest, it wouldn''t be until next year."

    "So, the crux of the matter lies in how the powerhouses of the Sword Ruins will ultimately judge his talent..."

    "Will he be categorized as a regr disciple, or as a True Disciple or a Supreme Disciple? If he''s dered a Star Emperor Child, a Heavenly Sun Child, or even an Exiled Sword Immortal, will others ept it?"

    The issue was that these titles weren''t just about status. They also came with perks and resources for cultivation, especially training in the Ancestral Sword Tomb. This would impact the fairness within the Sword Ruins.

    Yun Xiao needed to prove himself worthy.

    "Previously, Ling Chen''s clear and decisive nine resonances were quite convincing..."

    With these thoughts, people stared intently at the altar formation, their hearts pounding in anticipation of an answer.

    "Judging his talent is actually simple. Both he and Ling Chen, the Exiled Sword Immortal, are in the Saint Realm. Ling Chen has already announced he''llpete in the Immortal Sword Rankings. If Yun Xiao also participates, their performances will speak volumes."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the altar formation, Yun Xiao was faced with the top figures of the Eternal Sword Prison! That included the Sword Warden, the Withered Bone Keeper, and a dozen or so Overseers. Of course, Ling Chen was there too.

    Ling Chen stood a bit to the back, his face calm and smiling faintly at Yun Xiao, thoughts unknown.

    "Who has suggestions? Speak freely." The Sword Warden, bathed in golden light, fixed his piercing gaze on Yun Xiao.

    "The Eternal Sword malfunctioned, no doubt about that, right?" Overseer Sikong stepped forward, his voice deep. No one nodded, but no one shook their heads either.

    "The facts prove the Eternal Sword indeed had a glitch," said a slender, aloof ancestor in a green robe, known as Feng Buhui. He stood tall and gaunt beside the Withered Bone Keeper, gently supporting him.

    "So?" The Sword Warden raised an eyebrow slightly.

    "I suggest we let Yun Xiao start as an ordinary disciple, observe for a year, and retest next year," Overseer Sikong proposed softly.

    Yun Xiao justughed at this. A year? They were clearly short-selling him!

    "An ordinary disciple? That''s not appropriate." Feng Buhui gazed at Yun Xiao, "His fame precedes him; he''s already a special case. I propose making him a Supreme Disciple, with specialized training."

    Beside the Withered Bone Keeper stood another ancestor in a blue robe, named Yun Xinghe, also supporting the old man. He regarded Yun Xiao seriously, proposing, "Let''s start him as a Supreme Disciple and observe for a year. If his performance matches up, he could even be considered for the title of Exiled Sword Immortal."

    "So, we''re all in agreement in making him a Supreme Disciple? If we give him a higher position and he doesn''t live up to expectations, it won''t just pressure him but also tarnish the reputation of our Sword Ruins," a middle-aged woman in a white dress said. She was elegant yet her gaze was as cold as a frosty pond, known as Shuang Jiang, one of the powerhouses of the Sword Ruins with unfathomable cultivation.

    The Sword Warden, after listening to their words, turned unexpectedly towards the Withered Bone Keeper and asked with a smile and politeness, "Master, what do you think?"

    After a moment of silence, the Withered Bone Keeper spoke, his voice like the creaking of dry wood, "You could take him as a direct disciple of the Sword Warden, bestow upon him the title of Star Emperor Child. That wouldn''t be preposterous."

    "I think Star Emperor Child is suitable! After all, themotion he caused was massive. To not give him a special title would make our Sword Ruins look petty," a young woman standing beside the Sword Warden suggested.

    She seemed the youngest of the group, her golden gown hugging her tall, graceful figure like a golden mermaid. She appeared to be in her forties but looked a decade younger, emanating a regal and warm presence. After speaking, she turned to Yun Xiao with a slight smile, "Are you afraid of the pressure this title might bring?"

    She was the first to engage Yun Xiao in conversation since the formation opened. Before this, they had been discussing Yun Xiao''s fate as if he were merely an object, nning his life without involving him.

    "It''s fine. I''ll leave it to the seniors to decide," Yun Xiao responded politely, not keen on saying much. His calm demeanor made the ''golden mermaid'' look at him with newfound respect.

    It was clear to any discerning eye that Yun Xiao was no ordinary individual. However, defining his talent involved internal conflicts of interest within the Sword Ruins.

    Yun Xiao saw through it immediately. Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, Shuang Jiang, and Overseer Sikong seemed to be allied with the Withered Bone Keeper, while the golden mermaid appeared to be in a different camp, likely aligned with the Sword Warden.

    Interestingly, the Sword Warden referred to the Withered Bone Keeper as his master. And another detail was Ling Chen''s appearance alongside the old man. Every detail was crystal clear. Now, all eyes turned to the Sword Warden. How would he respond?

 Chapter 254 - A Second Exiled Sword Immortal?

    <h4>Chapter 254 - A Second Exiled Sword Immortal?</h4>

    The Sword Warden turned to Yun Xiao. His eyes, serious as a judge, cut through the silence like a knife. "I wish for Yun Xiao to be an Exiled Sword Immortal," he dered with unwavering certainty.

    At these words, the altar fell into an abyss of silence.

    Even the golden mermaid paused, casting a puzzled nce at the Sword Warden.

    Initially, Overseer Sikong proposed making Yun Xiao an ordinary disciple. Then, Feng Buhui suggested making him a Supreme Disciple, and the Withered Bone Keeper rmended making him a Star Emperor Child, having the Sword Warden take him on as a direct disciple... But now, the Sword Warden wanted to make him an Exiled Sword Immortal?

    "Sword Warden, that''s a bit much, isn''t it?" Overseer Sikong frowned, "Being an Exiled Sword Immortal is no small matter. The entire Eternal Sword Prison has doubts about the Eternal Sword malfunctioning. Elevating the boy so high would put immense pressure on him, benefiting no one. It might even stir discontent among others."

    "I believe," the Sword Warden''s voice boomed over Overseer Sikong, "that the first nine hums of the Eternal Sword were without error."

    "This..." Overseer Sikong''s face twisted into an awkward expression. He nced at the Withered Bone Keeper, then mped his mouth shut, choosing silence.

    The Withered Bone Keeper, with his clouded eyes, gazed at the Sword Warden and slowly said, "The title of Exiled Sword Immortal is decreed by the heavens, beyond anyone''s control."

    "The heavens have already spoken," the Sword Warden replied, his face a calm sea. "It''s up to the master to interpret this heavenly decree."

    "As the lord of the Sword Ruins, you should interpret it," the Withered Bone Keeper stated.

    "My interpretation is clear. An Exiled Sword Immortal is an Exiled Sword Immortal. My Sword Ruins should fully support unlocking his talent, propelling him to the heavens. Whether he seeds or fails is his own affair. If he seeds, it''s the glory of the Sword Ruins. If not, it''s his personal disgrace. Let the world chatter; we should stand firm for the Exiled Sword Immortal first." After speaking, the Sword Warden smiled at the white-robed youth. "Yun Xiao, do you ept my words?"

    "I do," Yun Xiao nodded without hesitation. Was it confidence, or ignorance of the stakes? At the very least, he understood that the Sword Warden was a man of integrity, vastness, and transparency. His words were crystal clear.

    "If that''s the case, then our Sword Ruins will henceforth have two Exiled Sword Immortals," the Withered Bone Keeper announced in his withered voice.

    With both of them speaking up, the matter was settled. Yun Xiao now had the highest status in the Sword Ruins! The Overseers of the Sword Ruins, like Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, Shuang Jiang, Overseer Sikong, and others, remained silent, their eyes flickering with unknown thoughts.

    "Congrattions," the golden mermaid said to Yun Xiao with a lightugh.

    Yun Xiao was still somewhat dazed. He thought that after triggering the 100,000 resonances, all the fortunes of the Sword Ruins would fly away. Yet, he ended up with the highest status in the Eternal Sword Prison? This was even more prestigious than being a princess of the Endless Netherworld.

    "Hey," the golden mermaid approached him, whispering, "Ling Chen gave up his power willingly, content with the Sword Ruins fully supporting his cultivation. What about you?"

    Being an Exiled Sword Immortal was legendary. So, the ancestors of the Sword Ruins had decided to grant the title the same status as a Sword Warden. But this was a bit presumptuous! After all, the Sword Baptism Ceremony was attended by youngsters, inexperienced in wielding power. A misstep could spell disaster.

    So, when Ling Chen became an Exiled Sword Immortal, he wisely chose to step back from power, avoiding major decisions, earning widespread praise. The golden mermaid was reminding Yun Xiao that he could win favor by temporarily relinquishing power, like Ling Chen. It was well-intentioned advice!

    Compared to Ling Chen, Yun Xiao''s status as an Exiled Sword Immortal still had some issues and dissent... She was considering Yun Xiao''s position.

    Unexpectedly, Yun Xiao asked, "What''s the difference between an Exiled Sword Immortal without power and a Heavenly Sun Child?"

    The woman was taken aback. Indeed, there was no difference!

    After asking this, Yun Xiao smiled slightly and said no more.

    Meanwhile, at the Withered Bone Keeper''s side, the faces of several Overseers slowly darkened.

    One Exiled Sword Immortal was a cause for celebration.

    Two Exiled Sword Immortals, and things started to feel a bit odd.

    Compared to the first, this second Exiled Sword Immortal didn''t seem to hide his desire for power.

    Unaware of the subtleties, thetter indeed seemed a bit less astute.

    "Alright then." The Sword Warden seemed unfazed by Yun Xiao''s non-surrender of power. He said to the Withered Bone Keeper, "Master, remember to open the doors of the Ancestral Sword Tomb for Yun Xiao."

    The Withered Bone Keeper let out a weary sigh and nodded. He looked like he was on death''s door, utterly exhausted, barely able to stand even with his cane.

    "Dalong," the Sword Warden addressed the golden mermaid, "from now on, you will assist Yun Xiao in his cultivation."

    "Yes, Father," thedy in the golden dress smiled and nodded, then said to Yun Xiao, "Exile Yun, my name is Mu Dalong. You maymand me in all matters henceforth."

    "Mu Dalong?"

    That name carried a certain air of dominance. So, she was the daughter of the Sword Warden. Young as she was, serving as an Overseer of the Sword Ruins was no small feat. With this, the matter was conclusively settled!

    The Sword Warden announced to all, "The arrival of two Exiled Sword Immortals heralds an era of unparalleled peers in the Eternal Sword Prison!"

    At these words, millions were astounded. No one had anticipated that Yun Xiao, despite his unique circumstances, would be an Exiled Sword Immortal!

    This status was noughing matter.

    Even a Heavenly Sun Child, despite being young, didn''t need to bow to the likes of Supreme Adjudicators or Overseers of the Sword Ruins.

    But an Exiled Sword Immortal? They reigned supreme over the entire Eternal Sword Prison. Even above the punishments of the Sword Ruins! Apart from the Sword Warden, who wouldn''t have to bow their heads first upon meeting them?

    "Is this some kind of joke?"

    "With two Exiled Sword Immortals born, if even one fails to be a powerhouse, or if both fail, won''t the Eternal Sword Prison be utterly disgraced?"

    "Could this make us the target of the entire Nine Hells?"

    One Exiled Sword Immortal, and the world would rejoice.

    Two Exiled Sword Immortals, and panic would ensue.

    After all, an Exiled Sword Immortal wasn''t yet a proven warrior; their talent was still unrealized potential, fraught with uncertainties.

    "Let''s see how they perform on the Immortal Sword Rankings..."

    Yun Xiao''s status as an Exiled Sword Immortal even made Ling Chen''s position seem dubious.

    Regardless, from that day on, every Sword Cultivator in the Eternal Sword Prison was abuzz with this news, causing an uproar. Gone was the celebratory mood, reced instead with utter bewilderment.

 Chapter 255 - True and False Exiled Sword Immortal

    <h4>Chapter 255 - True and False Exiled Sword Immortal</h4>

    "Brother Yun, congrattions," Ling Chen approached, smiling and bowing to Yun Xiao.

    "Same to you, Brother Ling," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Your achievement seems greater than mine, though." Ling Chen sighed. "You got the Eternal Sword to hum a 100,000 times. I can''t evenpare."

    Yun Xiao chuckled, shaking his head. "Brother Ling, you''re joking. Even a fool knows the Eternal Sword malfunctioned! I must be just lucky, getting the Exiled Sword Immortal title for free. A counterfeit product, really. I''ll be needing your guidance, as the genuine Exiled Sword Immortal."

    "You''re too modest." Ling Chen pursed his lips, speaking earnestly. "Regardless, we are fellows in the same path. I''m truly happy for you. Together, we can rise in the Sword Ruins and champion our swordsmanship."

    "The feeling is mutual." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "By the way, Brother Yun, will you participate in the Immortal Sword Rankings?" Ling Chen asked.

    "To witness your prowess up close, I must participate," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Oh?" Ling Chen nodded slightly. "Then I''ll be watching closely."

    Feng Buhui stepped forward. "Exile Ling, shall I escort you to the Exile Pce?"

    "Is my Brother Yun going too?" Ling Chen inquired.

    Feng Buhui shook his head. "There''s only one Exile Pce, arranged for you. As for Exile Yun, the Sword Warden must have other ns."

    "Nonsense." Ling Chen frowned. "Both of us are Exiled Sword Immortals. How can there be a difference?" After saying this, he turned to Yun Xiao. "Brother Yun, shall we stay together?"

    "I''d rather not; I''m not used to cohabiting with men..." Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "With your handsome looks, you''re clearly a man of romance. Enviable luck with thedies." Ling Chen smiled. He nced at the nearby Overseers and then at Mu Dalong by Yun Xiao''s side, his expression a little odd. "Enough talk, I''ll see you at the Ancestral Sword Tomb!" he bowed.

    "I''ll see you there!" Yun Xiao replied.

    After bidding farewell, Ling Chen was escorted by Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, and Shuang Jiang, three revered Overseers of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    And Mu Dalong was the Warden''s daughter.

    "Does this mean, after Ling Chen joined the Sword Ruins, he hit it off with the Withered Bone Keeper. So, the Warden pushed me as an Exiled Sword Immortal?"

    The undercurrents of the situation, if observed closely, weren''t hard to grasp.

    ording to Yun Xiao''s philosophy, if someone chose to believe in him and brought benefits his way, he usually wouldn''t let them down. After all, even with someone like Sword Heaven''s Lin Qingfeng, Yun Xiao hadn''t disappointed him in the end...

    "Ling Chen has a clear understanding," Yun Xiao mused. "Talent is talent, strength is strength. High talent as an Exiled Sword Immortal can vanish with a single misstep, a single death. So never think being an Exiled Sword Immortal is everything. The waters of the Nine Hells are even deeper than the Heavenly Realm!"

    Yun Xiao looked out over the Sword Ruins. He saw the 999 sword peaks bathed in the night, like countless demonic swords releasing a cold, murderous aura.

    "Exile Yun." The golden mermaid called out softly. Her wavy, slightly curled hair and dreamy eyes, brimming with untold stories, seemed to plead and weep. Under the moonlight, the unfathomable, ghostly white valley made Red Moon in Yun Xiao''s arms swallow hard.

    "What is it, Overseer Mu?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Just call me by my name," the woman nodded gently.

    "Da, Dalong?"

    "Yes!" she smiled coyly. Whether it was Zhao Xuanran or the War Princess, fiery as they were, they were still youthful at heart, somewhat naive. But thisdy before him, Yun Xiao realized, knew his thoughts, his gaze, everything.

    "The night grows deep. Please, Exile Yun, follow me to where you''ll stay," she said softly.

    "Stay?" Yun Xiao still didn''t know where he was to reside.

    As expected, it wouldn''t be long before rumors of the true and false Exiled Sword Immortals spread throughout the Sword Ruins.

    In these whispers, Yun Xiao, not even residing in the Exile Pce, would surely bebeled the fake.

    "Time is short, and until the new Exile Pce is built, I''m afraid Exile Yun will have to stay at my ce," she said softly.

    Before Yun Xiao could respond, Red Moon mimicked his voice, eximing, "Sure! No problem at all! I''ll stay!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Deep into the night at the Exile Pce... Before this grand ck and gold pce, two kneeling figures seemed as insignificant as ants. The two were Bai Qingxue and Bai Wuque.

    Bai Wuque''s face was ghostly pale, his spirit shattered, body still trembling uncontrobly. His mother, Bai Qingxue, lost her usual cold arrogance. Her once frosty face was now etched with panic.

    She had every reason to be panicked! Her father was a Peak Master, a prominent figure in the Sword Ruins. Raised above the clouds, she even had her husband brought in through a reverse dowry. Ny-nine percent of people in the Sword Ruins wouldn''t dare offend her.

    Yet, even her father was but ackey to the Supreme Adjudicators.

    Supreme Adjudicators needed to establish meritorious deeds and further their strength to be Overseers of the Sword Ruins!

    And now, before the dark Exile Pce stood three impassive Overseers of the Sword Ruins, coldly observing the mother and son.

    After a long time on her knees, Bai Qingxue, tears streaming, begged, "Please grant us a chance to atone."

    Overseers Feng, Yun, and Shuang remained unmoved.

    After a lengthy silence, a voice from inside the pcemanded, "Let Bai Qingxuee in."

    "Yes!" Feng Buhui opened the pce doors, raising an eyebrow at Bai Qingxue.

    "Exile Ling!" Bai Qingxue scrambled up, crawling and rolling into the Exile Pce with abject humility.

    "Mother..." Bai Wuquey prostrate, his forehead bleeding from the friction, his anxiety intensifying.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The pce doors shut.

    Bai Qingxue, trembling, looked up to see a young man seated like an emperor. It was Ling Chen!

    Freshly bathed, he had shed the grime of a former sword ve. His handsome face, paired with piercing eyes, was even more intimidating. Post-bath, dressed in a violet-gold robe, his damp hair loosely hung, he sat casually, eyeing Bai Qingxue, who was like a deer caught in headlights, with a devilish smile.

    "Exile Ling!" Bai Qingxue knelt frantically before him.

    "Lift your head." The young man''s yful voice echoed in her ears.

    Bai Qingxue''s delicate body trembled slightly as she slowly lifted her head, only to be startled to find the young man right before her eyes. But his violet-gold robe still sat on the throne. He had approached, but the robe had not.

    "Uh." Bai Qingxue was dumbfounded.

    Just then, Ling Chen lifted her chin, teasingly saying, "Mydy, you wouldn''t want your son to live a fate worse than death, would you?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Mother!" Bai Wuque dazedly looked up at the Exile Pce, his heart breaking. "Ling Chen, you!" He tried to rise in fury.

    But in the next instant, his knees crashed back to the ground.

    Overseers Feng Buhui and Yun Xinghe stood coldly at the door, watching him.

    Bai Wuque was utterly immobilized.

    "Ahhh..." The young man copsed to the ground, wailing bitterly.

    After a long while, a woman embraced his shoulders, her voice filled with despair, "Wuque, it''s alright, it''s alright now."

    "Get away!" Bai Wuque, trembling, got up, pushed her away, and staggered outside.

    "Wait." The young man in the violet-gold robe stood at the doorway. He was nked by three Overseers, an imprable guard around him.

    "Exile..." Bai Qingxue''s body shook, she turned and fell to her knees, breaking down, "You said..."

    "Yes, I said he wouldn''t have to die," Ling Chen spoke from above, looking down at Bai Wuque with a lightugh. "But, he will have to serve as my sword ve from now on."

    <i>THUD! </i>Bai Wuque copsed to the ground, his eyes filled with boundless fear.

    "And one more thing." Ling Chen turned his gaze to Bai Qingxue, smiling darkly, "Mydy, make sure to visit often to prolong your son''s life."

 Chapter 256 - Young Master Yun Beichen!

    <h4>Chapter 256 - Young Master Yun Beichen!</h4>

    In the Demon Continent, at the Forbidden Fate Volcano, something eerie was brewing deep within its shadowy belly. The vast, ghastly white fire that once roared like a tempestuous sea had mysteriously vanished into thin air.

    The volcano, once a fiery titan,y silent and cold, enveloped in darkness. Thick ck smoke shrouded the hollows of this deste ce, resembling monstrous beasts from the abyss.

    Yet, in the deepest caverns of this mountain, an enigmatic silver fireball lingered, slowly contracting. Within it, a terrifying fox shadow emerged, hinting at something otherworldly.

    At a pivotal moment, the firelight abruptly dissipated, and the silver-white fox seemed to awaken from a deep slumber. It opened its icy silver eyes, piercing the cavern''s darkness with two zing beams, cutting through to the skies above.

    With a humming sound, a new fox tail sprouted, aligning itself with the existing three, gently swaying. The tails, three feet long, slender yet sinister, flickered with white sparks, as lethal as any weapon.

    Amidst a surge of light, the Four-Tailed Demon Fox twisted and morphed into a young man, unclothed and ethereal. His silver hair trailed on the ground, eyes cold and alluring, features delicately chiseled, lips thin, skin pale as snow. Despite being male, he was breathtakingly beautiful. His silver nails, canine teeth, and the four gently swaying tails only added to his exquisite allure.

    With a casual flick of his hand, a piece of ancient armor flew to him, transforming into a long coat embroidered with petals, cloaking his sharpness.

    "Divine Destion Demon Heart," Moon Fairy whispered, closing his eyes. The experience ofprehending the power of the <i>Heart</i> felt more intensepared to the time with the War Princess.

    The path of cultivation, whether it be of a demon, devil, or human, was all about the connection with heaven and earth, the foundation of the journey to the heavens.

    "The power of the Demon Heart, driven by flesh and blood, resonates with the forces of nature, harnessing the power of destion more effectively," Moon Fairy mused. "And as expected, the Will of Divine Destion evolved the bloodline of this demon fox, giving birth to a fourth tail."

    For a demon fox, each tail was like a sword. Four tails meant an additional de!

    "In the Nine Hells, there''s a Primeval Demon Hell, not far from the Endless Netherworld. It harbors the Deste Essence of the Nine Hells and over a million Seed of Creations..." Moon Fairy''s enigmatic eyes gradually turned icy cold.

    His main self, with his Creator Immortal physique, could restrain his primal urges to devour everything under the heavens. However, in this demon body double, these urges manifested in a cold and terrifying way.

    "There''s so much left to do here, so many people to protect. For the sake of those I care about, I cannot afford mistakes," Moon Fairy mused. With a sh, he transformed into the Four-Tailed Demon Fox, bing an almost invisible streak of silver light.

    "I''ve indeed be powerful after surpassing the Eight Mortal Realms and entering the Second Dao Tribtion!" Moon Fairy muttered in delight. He could feel every muscle fiber bristling with explosive power!

    The Fox n was inherently graceful and cunning. However, with Yun Xiao holding the reins, he felt like a feral beast brimming with strength. Even his thoughts were turning simple and brutish. He raced across the deste Demon Continent and plummeted down into the Divine Continent like a silver star!

    Before long, he arrived in the Heavenly Realm! Looking around, in just a few days, order had been restored. Though not yet at pre-war levels, it was bustling again.

    Moon Fairy, silent as a shadow, slipped into the Divine Dawn Pce.

    At present, the Supreme Marshal Chen Xiao and Sword Saint Sun were swamped with work daily.

    In the bright hall, Chen Xiao, having just finished some tasks, was about to take a brief rest. Suddenly, he jerked his head up in rm, only to see a seemingly frail but terrifyingly powerful silver-haired youth standing before him.

    "Moon Fairy!" he eximed.

    The Supreme Marshal had just learned that this demon had be a Demon Emperor and the de facto ruler of the Demon Continent!

    "I''m a friend of Yun Xiao," Moon Fairy said, his calm words easing the Supreme Marshal''s tension.

    "A friend?" The Supreme Marshal''s mind raced, piecing together the puzzle. A demon fox, now ruler of the Demon Continent, friends with Yun Xiao? Were the strongest of the Divine and Demon Continents now allies?

    "Mhm, he asked me to pass on a message," Moon Fairy said.

    "Please, go ahead," the Supreme Marshal urged.

    Moon Fairy briefly exined the situation regarding the Endless Netherworld and the Eternal Sword Prison, adding, "He''s now in the Sword Ruins for cultivation, safe and sound, no need for worry."

    "Oh..." The Supreme Marshal''s eyes widened in amazement. "Damn, my son-inw''s progress is lightning-fast." Fresh from conquering the Sword Realm below, he had barely settled in the Heavenly Realm for a few days before oveing this new challenge! Swift as aet, he arrived and departed just as quickly!

    Moon Fairy reassured, "He will continue to guard both the Divine and Demon Continents. All you need to do in the Heavenly Realm is stick to the original n. Unite the human race of the Divine Continent and quietly regain your strength."

    The Supreme Marshal, who had been feeling uncertain, found sce in these words. It seemed the crisis threatening humanity was now resolved. Though the course had veered from what the Divine Dawn Empress had anticipated, the oue was favorable, and catastrophe was averted.

    Had they followed the Divine Dawn Empress'' n, the Demon Continent would have been devastated, but the Divine Continent would have suffered greatly as well, resulting in widespread sorrow and her inevitable demise.

    Yun Xiao could now give this youngdy some peace. The rebirth of the Creator Immortal brought endless variables. Yet, it didn''t stop Yun Xiao from ying the savior.

    However, the idea of a Demon Emperor uniting humanity seemed absurd to the Supreme Marshal. Had he not known about Moon Fairy''s coboration with Yun Xiao, he would have doubted his credibility.

    "Also, give me a list of the false demons from the other Immortal Empires in the Divine Continent. I''ll clean them up, and you can quickly unify humanity," Moon Fairy said coldly.

    "Here it is!" The Supreme Marshal immediately handed over a scroll.

    "You were prepared?" Moon Fairy asked, surprised.

    "I wish they''d drop dead sooner." The Supreme Marshal chuckled. The list included the names of various corrupt officials from the other four Immortal Empires. All of them needed to be dealt with!

    "One more thing," Moon Fairy paused. "Send Su Lianlian to the Sword Realm below to establish a Sword Cultivation Academy in the Sea of Swords. Let a local woman named Ning Yan handle the details. Afterwards, promote the way of the Sword Cultivator and recruit talents toe to the Three Great Sword Tombs in the Heavenly Realm."

    "No problem!" The Supreme Marshal nodded enthusiastically, but inside, his mind was reeling: A demon, encouraging the promotion of sword cultivation? He sneaked a peculiar nce at Moon Fairy, a terrifying thought crossing his mind.

    "Damn it!"

    Could his son-inw be into both men and women? Why else would the Demon Emperor act this way? And to think, Moon Fairy was into both humans and demons as well?

    "Damn, the young ones these days are really something else," the Supreme Marshal thought, his mind in turmoil, though he maintained a polite smile on his face.

    "Here''s a Thunder Crystal; it''s discreet. If you''re in danger, crush it in advance," Moon Fairy advised.

    "Alright!" The Supreme Marshal pondered. "With you around, there should be peace and no more wars between the Divine and Demon Continents. So, the danger you''re talking about, is it the devils from the Endless Netherworld?"

    "No," Moon Fairy replied, gazing deeply at him. "It''s the foreign Sword Cultivators."

    "Ah?" The Supreme Marshal was utterly baffled.

    "Just do as I say," Moon Fairy insisted. As soon as he finished speaking, his figure vanished abruptly.

    The Supreme Marshal was left standing in the hall, utterly disheveled. "A demon protects me, devils don''t invade, and I should be wary of Sword Cultivators... What kind of world is this?"

    He looked out of the door, sighing softly.

    "My daughter, it''s only been a few days, but dad misses you. Ah, when will I see you again?" the Supreme Marshal muttered sadly. He had been calm when she left for a year before. But now, in this lifetime, would he ever see her again? He felt lost.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Demon Continent, near the entrance to the Eternal Sword Prison, the vortex flickered with another light.

    <i>HUM! </i>A streak of sword light pierced through the void, descending gracefully. It was a young man in a starry sword robe, tall and lean, with a high nose bridge and a face like jade. His demeanor was sharp, clearly a dragon among swords.

    "Supreme Disciple!" Despite being seniors, several Sword Judges gathered around him, nervously bowing before the young man.

    "Where''s the one surnamed Bai?" The young man''s voice was cool, his bearing naturally that of a leader.

    "I''ming!" Old Bai approached from a distance, hurrying over. The venerable Peak Master,manding ten thousands disciples in the Eternal Sword Prison and followed by countless admirers, found himself fawning in front of this young man.

    "Beichen," Old Bai asked with a slight smile, "is there a new arrangement from the Sword Ruins?"

    "Bai Changhong." Yun Beichen said, raising an eyebrow and clicking his tongue. "Your luck is truly pitiful."

    "Eh?" Old Bai''s heart skipped a beat, nervously blurting out, "Young Master Beichen, please don''t frighten an old man like me. I''ve been loyally devoted to your grandfather, always diligent, never causing or seeking trouble..."

    "It''s not about you, but your grandson," Yun Beichen replied indifferently.

    "Wuque?" Old Bai''s eyes trembled, "Did Wuque fail to make the Eternal Sword resonate even once?"

    "On the contrary, the Eternal Sword hummed six times, also making him a Supreme Disciple," Yun Beichen chuckled.

    "A Supreme Disciple?" Old Bai and the other Sword Judges thought they had misheard. Wasn''t this incredible news? For generations, the Bai Family hadn''t produced a Supreme Disciple!

    Yun Beichen then detailed the affairs of Ling Chen and Yun Xiao, the two Exiled Sword Immortals, to everyone.

    <i>THUD! </i>Old Bai copsed onto the ground, his face ashen. The other Sword Judges too, had red eyes, unable to believe their ears.

    Old Bai had sent Ling Chen and Yun Xiao to the Swords Ruins with his daughter. Before they left, he could have in them both with a single sword strike. And now, they had both be Exiled Sword Immortals?

    Was there anything more preposterous in this world?

    "Believe it or not, it has already happened. It''s now the talk of the Nine Hells, and you stationed folks are the only ones out of the loop," Yun Beichen stated matter-of-factly.

    Old Bai, usually a figure ofposure, was visibly shaken by this news. Tears in his eyes, he knelt before Yun Beichen. "Could you please ask your grandfather to spare Wuque''s life..." He was filled with regret. If only he had known, he would have eliminated those two youngsters when he had the chance!

    "My grandfather is just an Overseer of the Sword Ruins. He''s been assigned to protect Ling Chen. If an Exiled Sword Immortal decides to kill, nobody can stop them, understand?" Yun Beichen said coldly.

    Old Bai felt like he had been struck by lightning.

    "However, for now, rx. Wuque has been made a sword ve by Exile Ling, but his status as a Supreme Disciple remains. As for the Qin Family, except for Qin Luo, they''ve been wiped out," Yun Beichen continued.

    "A sword ve, that''s good! Being a sword ve isn''t bad..." Old Bai''s voice trembled. Hearing about the Qin family''s fate, he felt a chill run down his spine.

    "Fortunately, Exile Ling is on our side. Your Bai Family just needs to serve him loyally, and you might survive. That''s the message my grandfather sent for you, got it?" Yun Beichen spoke gravely.

    "On our side?" Old Bai took a deep breath, his expression turning odd. "It seems our ancestor still has great foresight, even outwitting the Sword Warden."

    "And why else would they push Yun Xiao so forcefully?" Yun Beichen shrugged, sneering. "Unfortunately, those who climb ranks forcefully always show their true colors. The Immortal Sword Rankings will be the litmus test... Some are bound to be aughing stock."

    "Of course, the limit is nine resonances! How could there be someone who could make the Eternal Sword hum 100,000 times?" Old Bai had found his new direction, knowing whose boots to lick from now on.

    "Just handle the affairs of the Demon Continent and try to make up for your past deeds in front of Exile Ling," Yun Beichen paused, then added sternly, "He''s already stated that after the Immortal Sword Rankings, he''lle here to take over the Heavenly Land. How long your Bai Family survives depends on your performance in this period."

 Chapter 257: Two Tigers Cannot Share One Mountain!

    Chapter 257: Two Tigers Cannot Share One Mountain!

    "Understood!" In the reddened eyes of Old Bai, a burning desire had ignited.

    Meanwhile, Yun Beichen pondered over the Demon Continent''s terrain. Clearly, he was as lost as a cat in a rainstorm, clueless about the location of the core of the Heavenly Land.

    "An Exiled Sword Immortal is indeed extraordinary. He''s even aware of the Heavenly Land." Yun Beichen''s eyes zed with fervor. His grandfather, Yun Xinghe, was the personal guard of Exile Ling. With this connection, as a peer, following Ling Chen would surely open vast opportunities for him.

    This time, it was his grandfather who sensed Exile Ling''s interest in the Heavenly Land, prompting Yun Beichen to abandon his pursuit of the Immortal Sword Rankings andy ns early.

    "Bai Changhong," Yun Beichen suddenly looked towards the Demon Continent with a far-reaching gaze. "I heard from Exile Ling that this Yun Xiao is a native of this fold world?"

    "Yes! He''s from the humannd called the Divine Continent below." Old Bai nodded.

    "Oh" Yun Beichen smiled faintly. "Then his parents, elders, brothers, and sisters must still be there, right?"

    "I don''t know about that. The Sword Warden said to protect the humans of the Divine Continent, and not to disturb the devils, so we didn''t go down to bother them," Old Bai exined.

    "Alright." Yun Beichen nodded. After a while, he casually said, "You guys stay busy, I''ll take a look around."

    "Young Master Beichen, do you want me to apany you for protection?" Old Bai asked.

    Yun Beichen raised an eyebrow at him. "Are you much stronger than me?"

    "Not at all!" Old Bai hastily replied.

    "Mind your own business!"

    After saying this, Yun Beichen flew off alone on his sword, vanishing in a blink.

    "Old Bai." A few Sword Judges gathered around, whispering, "Is he going down there to harm Yun Xiao''s family?"

    "If you don''t want to die, keep your mouths shut!" Old Bai red at them coldly.

    "Understood!" The Sword Judges paled and quickly shut their mouths, exchanging nces.

    "The two Exiled Sword Immortals, the Sword Warden and the Withered Bone Keeper each holding sway, like two tigers on a single mountain... The long-standing conflicts in the Eternal Sword Prison are likely to erupt."

    "When two tigers fight, one is bound to get hurt. What a shame..."

    "If only one were male and the other female."

    In the Sword Ruins, even the most ordinary Sword Judges saw the covert struggles very clearly.

    In the Heavenly Realm, night had fallen. The Supreme Marshal sat alone on the steps of the pce, gazing at the dragon throne above, lost in thought for a long time.

    "It seems in this world, no man could love his daughter more than a father." The Supreme Marshal shook his head with a bitter smile. Gone without a word, without a goodbye. Beneath his burly frame, his heart bore a permanent, irreparable crack. Only in solitude did the sharp pain truly surface.

    He sighed softly, rising to leave, only for a streak of starry sword energy to brush past his hair. The sword energy grazed his face, leaving behind cold trails of blood. The Supreme Marshal jerked his head up!

    Unbeknownst to him, an elegant young man in a starry sword robe sat on the dragon throne. Resting his hand on the armrest, eyes closed, a faint smile yed on his lips. "Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn," he murmured, "such a short tale, yet so stirring and touching."

    The Supreme Marshal''s pupils contracted. A Sword Cultivator! It was just as Moon Fairy had foretold.

    Unfazed, the Supreme Marshal bowed slightly, asking in a low voice, "I heard a pathway to another world opened in the Demon Continent. Might you be a Sword Cultivator from a higher realm?"

    "Higher realm, huh? You could say that." Yun Beichen chuckled, standing up on the steps, looking down at the Supreme Marshal with a smile. "I''m neen, and you?"

    "Age does not define superiority," the Supreme Marshal replied, bowing deeper, admiration in his voice. "You must be the most gifted Sword Cultivator from that otherworldly ce. I am honored to meet you."

    "Spare me the formalities. Your son-inw in the Sword Ruins is even more talented," Yun Beichen said tly. His mention of Yun Xiao indicated he came prepared.

    "Yun Xiao went to that otherworldly ce?" the Supreme Marshal eximed in surprise.

    "Hmm." Yun Beichen''s eyes sparkled like stars, his icy demeanor unmasked as he descended the steps, hands behind his back. Finally, he stood before the Supreme Marshal, his sword energy swirling around, pressing blood marks onto the Supreme Marshal''s skin.

    The Supreme Marshal, slightly startled, murmured, "May I ask, sir, have I offended you in any way?"

    "Not at all. But, I''m taking you to the Sword Ruins," Yun Beichen dered.

    "Why? I have the heavy responsibility of protecting the Empire..." the Supreme Marshal said gravely.

    <em>GRIP! </em>Yun Beichen suddenly seized his neck, forcing him to kneel, then coldly chuckled. "You call this an Empire? This destend tucked away in the folds of the Nine Hells, inhabited by talentless, useless humans does that even qualify as an Empire?"

    This grip turned the Supreme Marshal''s face purple-red. Yet, he began tough.

    "What''s so funny?" Yun Beichen asked, amused.

    "You, a powerful human, blessed with ancestral resources, parental lineage, and the world''s favor, and this is your day. Fortunate to be a human pioneer. Yet you mock your weaker kin instead of advocating for them, not ying demons or devils, unting your shallow superiority before me. That kind of so-called genius is beneath the lowliest of swine." The Supreme Marshal stared at him, eyes filled with contempt.

    "Oh?" Yun Beichenughed, patting the Supreme Marshal''s face with his other hand. "So you think you''re useful to me, that you won''t die just yet, and so you dare to be so brazen?"

    "Not really, I just purely despise you." The Supreme Marshalughed, "You''re scared of my son-inw, aren''t you? That''s why you stooped so low toe after his family? And you call that cultivating the Sword Dao? Even my average Sword Cultivator has more backbone than you, coward!"

    "Me, scared of him?" Yun Beichen''s smile slowly faded, his eyes turning as cold as a devil''s.

    "Or is someone directing you to do this?" the Supreme Marshal mocked.

    Yun Beichen''s eyebrows shot up. "Where''s your daughter?" He finally revealed his true intent. If he hadn''t spent ages searching for the Divine Dawn Empress and found nothing, he wouldn''t havee to the father-inw first.

    "Want to know? Kill me, and I''ll tell you." The Supreme Marshal looked at him mockingly.

    "You really aren''t afraid to die, are you? As soon as I find your daughter, you''re useless to me," Yun Beichen said coldly.

    "I bet you won''t find her. After all, you''re blind, unable to even see who the real sovereign is." The Supreme Marshal chuckled.

    "You!" Yun Beichen''s eyes turned ice-cold, his hand twisting fiercely!

    "Phooey!" In a sh, the Supreme Marshal spat a thunderous glob of spit straight into Yun Beichen''s face.

    "You!" This was more lethal to Yun Beichen than a Flying Sword. He dodged to the side, his chest brimming with a deadly sword intent.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Supreme Marshal erupted in a tempest of thunder, rolling on the spot, temporarily breaking free from Yun Beichen''s grasp. He transformed into a bolt of lightning, dashing towards the pce exit.

    "You think you can escape from a Sword Cultivator? What aughable idea!" Yun Beichen''s eyes were cold, his fingertips flicked, and a dazzling Sword Soul pierced through space, instantly targeting the back of the Supreme Marshal''s head.

    "Chen Xi..." In this fatal moment, the Supreme Marshal''s eyes softened, filled with thoughts of his daughter. Sadly, it seemed they would never meet again.

    In that instant, a silver sh cut through!

    <em>BANG! </em>The Supreme Marshal was sent flying,nding with a dusty thud. His eyes widened, and as he turned, he saw a silver, glowing Four-Tailed Demon Fox standing between him and Yun Beichen under the night sky! Its fur emitted a chilling, ghostly light.

    "He''s here!" The Supreme Marshal rxed his body. From the moment the Sword Cultivator appeared, he had crushed the Thunder Crystal given to him by Moon Fairy. It was the discrete type that made no great disturbance when activated.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The Four-Tailed Demon Fox looked back at the Supreme Marshal. The sword wounds on his body and the blood on his neck stained the fox''s eyes with ayer of red.

    This was Chen Xi''s closest kin in this world! Yet, this Sword Cultivator dared to kill him? If he died, and if one day she was resurrected, how would Yun Xiao exin it to her?

    Yun Xiao believed the Sword Cultivators of the higher realms would never act so despicably. Yet, Yun Beichen''s presence proved they were capable of stopping lower than he imagined.

    "A demon?" Yun Beichen, staring at his trembling Sword Soul in his hand, furrowed his brow deeply. He couldn''t believe that his Sword Soul, with 1,500yers of Sword Aura, had been swatted away by a mere demon using its fleshly body! And a seemingly fragile fox demon at that!

    "How can this barrennd harbor a demon with a Demon Heart? You, a demon, saving a human?" Yun Beichen transformed his Sword Soul back into a three-foot blue de, fixating his gaze on the Four-Tailed Demon Fox!

    Before he could finish his thought, the demon fox vanished from its spot, suddenly lunging at him with a fierce visage!

    "So fast!" Yun Beichen''s heart skipped a beat. He tightly gripped his Starlight Sword Soul, unleashing the Ster Sword Art against Moon Fairy. In the Mid Dao Heart Realm, his swordsmanship was already imbued with Sword Intent!

    <em>Ster Sword Art, Shooting Star!</em>

    As Yun Beichen thrust his sword, it was as if the stars themselves were shining down, enveloping his Sword Soul. He became engulfed in celestial radiance, dazzlingly brilliant!

    "A despicable demon dares to court death?" He chuckled coldly, his sword transforming into myriad stars, thousands of sword points stabbing at Moon Fairy!

    "Hmm?" In the next moment, the Four-Tailed Demon Fox in his eyes seemed to transform from a demon into an entire realm! Within this realm, fire, thunder, storms, frost, and countless forces of the wild destion swirled!

    This was the Demon Heart of the Divine Destion Demon God!

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Beichen thrust his sword, but the four-tailed fox demon, with a sh of light, bit down on the de!

    "This strength!!" Yun Beichen''s face paled dramatically. He couldn''t budge his sword at all! This meant Moon Fairy was stronger than him!

    Yun Beichen thought to swiftly retreat, but in the next instant, the demon fox''s sharp ws pierced his chest!

    <em>SPLATTER! </em>Moon Fairy suddenly ripped out a beating heart!

    "Uh..." Yun Beichen was stunned, looking down at his blood-soaked chest, feeling his warmth fading away. "What are you..." The world turned dark. His eyes widened in disbelief, refusing to close in death.

    "You see a false Exiled Sword Immortal in your eyes." Moon Fairy revealed a chillingly human-like smirk, then ferociously bit into Yun Beichen''s head, tearing it right off.

    Blood sttered across the great hall!

    <em>THUD! </em>Yun Beichen''s body crashed to the ground, twitching briefly before lying still.

    "Damn it!" Moon Fairy spat out the mangled remains from his mouth, looking up at the sky, his face twisted in ferocity. "ying dirty so soon, huh? Fine, I''ll y along!"

 Chapter 258: Once a Line is Crossed, Theres No Going Back!

    Chapter 258: Once a Line is Crossed, There''s No Going Back!

    In the Demon Continent, Moon Fairy nonchntly dropped a headless corpse on the ground. Lifting his gaze, his eyes shimmered silver in the dark, piercing through the murky forest ahead. The forest was a haven of ck miasma, shrouding everything in a sinister embrace.

    A tall, striking figure emerged from the woods, her cold, stunning face cutting through the mist. Her legs, long and sculpted like baster, were a dazzling sight.

    "What''s this about?"The War Princess nced at the headless body, a flicker of curiosity in her eyes. Judging by the clothing and the lingering power, this was a high-ranking disciple of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    "I just need some adjustments!" Moon Fairy stepped back, his voice echoing slightly.

    "Adjustments? How?" The War Princess was momentarily taken aback.

    "Make it look like he was killed by a devil," Moon Fairy instructed.

    Biting her lip, the War Princess realized this was the body double of Yun Xiao, speaking directly to her!

    "Are you trying to stir up a fight between us and the Sword Cultivators?" The War Princess''s expression tightened.

    "Who do you mean by us?" Moon Fairy''s icy gaze bore into her.

    "The devils..." the War Princess replied.

    "Wrong," said Moon Fairy sharply.

    "Wrong?"

    "Yes. Get your loyalties straight. Us should only mean you and me, not you and the devils," Moon Fairy dered coldly.

    "I understand." The War Princess lowered her head, her heart seething with reluctance. She had already felt the weight of Yun Xiao''s influence; defying him never ended well.

    Without another word, she began to alter the corpse of Yun Beichen with her blood arts, masking the true cause of death. After finishing her grim task, the War Princess questioned Moon Fairy, "Why the sudden decision to deal with them?"

    "I nned to wait, to see how things would unfold at the Sword Ruins. But these folks made me realize, on my turf, devils can be managed, but those foreign Sword Cultivators are a wild card. I don''t want any risks. Killing them is the simplest solution," Moon Fairy exined.

    "Yes, simple and brute," the War Princess agreed with a nod.

    "Let those foreign Sword Cultivators use this body to stir up trouble with you. Then, I''ll help you wipe them out. Let Feng You be the main force," Moon Fairy strategized.

    "Understood!" the War Princess nodded. Though a battle loomed, Yun Xiao''s target wasn''t the devils. So, she chose to cooperate fully. Even if the devils suffered losses, she couldn''t change that; she no longer belonged to them.

    After the conversation, she turned and vanished into the dark forest. Though, the Mortal Dust Devil Seed inside her continued the conversation.

    "The Eternal Sword Prison, like your Endless Netherworld, has hit a snag in widening the passage. This means it''s still tough for stronger beings to enter. Even those at the current level face limits in numbers," Yun Xiao''s voice echoed in her heart.

    "So, your n is to kill each Sword Cultivator from the Eternal Sword Prison as theye, and pin it all on the devils?" the War Princess asked softly as she walked.

    "Refine their blood! You need to be stronger to temporarily block both passages," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "What if the passage widenster, and someone unstoppable emerges?" the War Princess asked.

    "We''ll cross that bridge when wee to it," Yun Xiao replied. After that, his voice faded away, probably off to handle other matters. There was plenty to keep him busy at the Sword Ruins.

    On the other side of the Demon Continent, a Sword Judge, while exploring the Heavenly Land, stumbled upon a headless corpse. The familiar attire on the body sent shivers down his spine.

    "What''s got you so rattled?" Old Bai called out from a distance.

    "Yun Beichen, he''s dead!" The Sword Judge staggered back, his face ashen, voice quivering with fear.

    "What..." Old Bai and several others felt a sudden heat in their throats, their hearts pounding as if they were about to leap out. They hurried over, and upon closer inspection, they all gasped in shock.

    "It''s truly Young Master Beichen!"

    Everyone''s face drained of color, their breathing bingbored.

    "He''s dead here... this is a disaster!"

    The Sword Judges and Old Bai felt a numbing terror, as a shadow of death loomed over them.

    "He''s dead, and we''ll be held ountable, won''t we? After all, the higher-ups value the gifted disciples so highly. Failing to protect him is a crime punishable by family execution..."

    Their faces were the picture of doom and gloom.

    Old Bai sighed deeply. "Truth be told, Young Master Beichen insisted on acting alone, which isn''t really our fault. But the real problem is theck of witnesses!"

    They were all suspects in failing to protect him, and none could vouch for themselves.

    "What should we do, Old Bai?" The group asked anxiously.

    Old Bai spoke gravely. "We''ve contributed to the digging here, but now, with this incident, our only choice is to find the killer and send him back to the Sword Ruins. Maybe Overseer Yun will show mercy."

    "The killer?" The Sword Judges nced down at the corpse, quickly deducing, "Such a strong scent of blood arts..."

    "It''s obvious, in this fold world, the only ones who could harm Young Master Beichen are those devils from the Endless Netherworld!"

    "They tantly breached our truce, acting so arrogantly. They deserve death!" a Sword Judge said icily.

    "But why would they kill Yun Beichen and then dump the body here? Why not just dispose of it?" someone wondered aloud.

    "There are two possibilities," Old Bai said, eyeing the headless corpse. "First, someone''s framing them, wanting us to sh with the devils. Second, the devils, being naturally brutal and arrogant, are provoking us."

    "Which is more likely?"

    "The second. The nature of devils is cruel and violent. Plus, there''s no one here to frame..."

    "It''s hard to say! But confronting them will give us answers," Old Bai dered.

    They knew where to find those cold, young devils! Buzzing with energy, they soon confronted the group of icy, menacing devils, including the white-haired, fierce Feng You and the stunningly beautiful War Princess.

    "What''s this?" Feng You blocked Old Bai, towering over him with dark red eyes.

    "Our Supreme Disciple Yun Beichen died in the Demon Continent''s wilderness, his body marked with blood arts!" Old Bai stared at Feng You, suspecting him of the crime.

    "So?" Feng You stepped forward, followed by other formidable talents from the Endless Netherworld.

    "We agreed to avoid conflict, yet this happened. We expect an exnation from the War Princess," Old Bai said, standing his ground.

    "Exnation? My foot," Feng You sneered. "Your Eternal Sword Prison is ruthless, killing your own Supreme Disciple to stir up trouble. Was it worth it?"

    "You!"

    "Back off. We didn''t touch this trash. Try to pin this on us, and you''ll leave your lives here," Feng You said coldly.

    The older Sword Cultivators were taken aback by the brazenness of these Endless Netherworld talents, fuming with anger.

    "Feng You," the War Princess called out suddenly, and then said calmly, "I killed him."

    "Huh?" Feng You was taken aback.

    Old Bai and the eyes of the other Sword Cultivators narrowed.

    She admitted to the crime?

    "War Princess, why did you kill him?" Old Bai frowned and stepped back.

    "Because he offended me with his foul and disrespectful mouth," the War Princess dered.

    At this, Feng You and the others'' gazes turned fierce. It was well-known that devils, due to their racial talents, were the dream of many men in the Nine Hells. Many men indeed spoke disrespectfully to devil women, earning the ire of the male devils.

    This was a woman of their race! Such disrespect often triggered the greatest fury in male devils.

    "Dare to dream big, little worm?"

    "Haha, serves him right!"

    The talents from the Endless Netherworld burst into mockingughter.

    "I killed him and threw him back to you as a lesson. Next time, tell your people to watch their tongues!" the War Princess said coldly.

    "You!"

    With the War Princess''s admission, the evidence was now undeniable.

    "Let''s go!" Old Bai swallowed his pride.

    "You n to go back and then bring more people for revenge?" the War Princess called out to their retreating figures.

    Old Bai''s scalp tingled. Indeed, that was his n. Before he could reply, the War Princess told Feng You, "They started it by seeking trouble, so there''s no more talk of a truce after killing the first one."

    "So?" Feng You''s eyes darkened with devilish intent.

    "Kill them all!" the War Princess sneered. "Don''t worry about the consequences; I''ll handle it!"

    Feng You nced at Yun Beichen''s headless corpse. He harbored some doubts, but with the lord''smand and the War Princess leading the Demon Continent operation, he had toply.

    "Daring to offend our Endless Netherworld princess? Deserves death. Brothers, attack!" Feng Youmanded with a deadly look.

    Old Bai''s eyelids twitched!

    The War Princess had no proof, but Yun Beichen was stillbeled as a man killed for lusting after beauty. From the Sword Cultivators'' perspective, the situation was clear. It was these devils, tearing up the truce to brutally murder!

    "Let''s go!" Faced with hostility, Old Bai had no desire for a drawn-out conflict.

    "Finish them off!" the War Princess''s cold eyes swept towards Feng You.

    "Yes...!" The Endless Netherworld talents, their faces twisted in ferocity, each locked onto a Sword Cultivator and pursued them for the kill!

    Feng You suddenly intercepted Old Bai, his white hair flying, his tall and lean figure exuding a dominating presence.

    "You want blood, huh?" Old Bai unsheathed his Sword Soul, his eyes shing with sword light. "I''ll trade my life for a talent like you, a bloody good deal!"

    "One for one?" The War Princess''s figure suddenly appeared beside Feng You, her hand lightly resting on his shoulder. She then addressed Old Bai, "In your dreams. It''s two against one!"

    "Your Highness..." Feng You''s eyes suddenly warmed, as if invigorated. He had never fought alongside the War Princess before. Once, shecked the power; now, she was untouchably exalted. He cast aside all doubts, his murderous intent fully ignited!

    "Ow!" The War Princess suddenly felt pain in her hand on Feng You''s shoulder and hastily withdrew it, murmuring to herself inint, "What''s that for?"

    "You''re not allowed to touch any other man," the Mortal Dust Devil Seed within her heart spoke.

    "Are you jealous?" the War Princess asked softly.

    "Just kill them already!" Yun Xiaomanded.

    "Fine, spoil-sport!" She bit her lip, then addressed Feng You, "If he doesn''t die, you''ll go back to the Endless Netherworld and someone else will assist me."

    "Yes!" Feng You roared, his devilish energy soaring as he lunged at Old Bai! He would never let anyone else take his ce at the War Princess'' side!

    A brutal, peak-level battle unfolded across the barren continent.

    Meanwhile, atop a nearby mountain peak, a Four-Tailed Demon Fox stood under the night sky, coldly observing everything.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 259: Stirring Undercurrents

    Chapter 259: Stirring Undercurrents

    "Overseer Yun!" a swordsman in green hurried into the Exile Pce, his face pale as he reported the tumultuous events from the Heavenly Land.

    "Beichen dared to speak rudely to the War Princess and was in?" Yun Xinghe, d in a robe of stars and clouds, listened, his eyes suddenly brimming with an endless sea of swords.

    "They didn''t just kill Beichen, they wiped out Peak Master Bai and the others, leaving only a lone Sword Judge to escape with his life," the green-d swordsman reported, kneeling, his eyes burning with unquenchable fury. "But we didn''t suffer in vain; we killed two devil prodigies!"

    Feng Buhui and Shuang Jiang, two other Overseers, stood by, absorbing this news.

    "From what I know of Beichen, he isn''t the type to bber foolishly," Shuang Jiang coldly observed.

    "It must be the Endless Netherworld ying dirty, seizing on trivial matters to make a case for taking over Heaven," Feng Buhui spected.

    "To offer peace with one hand and strike with the other, devils will be devils, ever so despicable!" Yun Xinghe gritted his teeth, his face twisted in anger. "We must consult the other Overseers and demand justice from the Endless Netherworld."

    At that moment, the grand gates of the Exile Pce opened, and a young man in a violet-ck robe emerged. It was Ling Chen. "If the masks are off, there''s no use pretending. Let''s see the truth in action," he said coldly.

    "They say the War Princess has unlocked her Nine-Tiered Bloodline, a talent on par with a Heavenly Sun Child. It''s impossible to force the Endless Netherworld to punish her. Against such brutality, the only way is to be more brutal," Feng Buhui dered.

    "They have the upper hand in the Heavenly Land now, and might blockade our passageway. We either send no one or enough strong Sword Cultivators in one go, or else we risk losing them one by one," Shuang Jiang added, her tone ice-cold.

    "In that case, after the Immortal Sword Rankings, I shall personally confront her," Ling Chen said, an eyebrow raised, a hint of mockery in his eyes.

    "Aren''t you afraid they''ll gain ground in this time?" Yun Xinghe asked.

    Ling Chen shook his head, "In these Nine Hells, no one but me can capture the core of Heavenly Land."

    "That puts our minds at ease," Feng Buhui said. They all knew that while Ling Chen''s talent was extraordinary, he still needed time to mature in his cultivation.

    "Currently, that portal is limited by cultivation. When the timees, we''ll gather a group of Sword Cultivator prodigies, just like the Endless Netherworld, with Ling Chen as the anchor. Even ten Nine-Tiered Bloodline talents won''t stand a chance," Shuang Jiang ttered.

    "That War Princess, they say she''s just unlocked her talent. She''s wasting precious time in that destend instead of training in the Endless Netherworld. Soon, she''ll be left in the dust by Ling Chen," Feng Buhui added.

    "Ling Chen," Yun Xinghe addressed him solemnly, "these deceitful devils have shown their true colors. I trust you to make them pay a hefty price for what they did to Beichen. I''ll leave his revenge to you, and I expect you to make the Endless Netherworld pay back a hundredfold."

    Only then did Yun Xinghe feel some sce at the death of his grandson.

    "Let those jesters strut around for a few days. When Ling Chen makes his move, those lowly devils won''t even have a chance to cry," Yun Xinghe said respectfully.

    "Heh." Ling Chen looked toward the rolling mountains ahead, his gaze as deep and mysterious as that of a devil himself.

    "My race, the human race, is the convergence of all daos. All other races, like demons, devils, ghosts, monsters, and spirits are inherently wed. Born in the Nine Hells, my destiny is to exterminate all that is sinister and elevate our race to the pinnacle of the Heavenly Dao!" His lips curved slightly, his gaze domineering, "Devils? They''re fit only to be ves! They dare to contend with me for the Heavenly Land?"

    "We are willing to follow you to death, Exile Ling!" Overseers Feng, Yun, and Shuang eximed, their eyes aze with a murderous fervor as they knelt.

    "Heh." Ling Chen raised an eyebrow in amusement, then spoke softly, "I hear that the War Princess is quite the beauty and has a fiery figure?"

    "Indeed! The War Princess is famously stunning in the Nine Hells. Such an exotic breed, tall and imposing, surely has its own allure," Feng Buhui knew exactly what Ling Chen wanted to hear.

    "Tall and imposing you say?" Ling Chen leaned in, feigning curiosity.

    Feng Buhui and Yun Xinghe, the two seasoned old-timers, found themselves a tad embarrassed. They could only chuckle awkwardly, thinking to themselves Indeed, a child of destiny like this one, his desires were boundless, far from the upright and noble sort.

    Ling Chen burst intoughter suddenly, musing, "What do you think if I make that War Princess my servant? How would the lowly devils of the Endless Netherworld react?"

    "They''d be frustrated and angry, but they''d have no choice but to kneel," Yun Xinghe said, his eyes zing as he looked at Ling Chen. "Because this part of the Nine Hells will eventually belong to Exile Ling alone! Not just the War Princess, but the entire Endless Netherworld will be your servants!"

    "That''s a bit much." Ling Chen coughed, "Gentlemen, I was just joking, merely musing. Let''s not get overly confident." With that, he took a deep breath. "One must eat their food one bite at a time. I need to finish the white rice before moving on to therger, ck and red rice, right?"

    Hearing this, Feng Buhui and Yun Xinghe gave Ling Chen a thumbs-up, admiringly saying, "Well said, Exile Ling!"

    Amidst an endless immortal road, clouds and mists swirled. Yun Xiao traversed the lofty clouds and mountains of the Sword Ruins, his clothes fluttering and long hair dancing in the wind.

    Gazing into the distance, the vastndscape unfolded before himmajestic mountains, boundless sky clouds, countless sword mountains and seas stirring the soul, broadening ones horizon!

    "It feels like my first step into Azure Spirit," Yun Xiao reflected. Both Azure Spirit and the Sword Ruins were nestled among towering peaks and deep valleys, magnificent and grand!

    While the Sea of Swords and the Heavenly Realm were bustling with crowds, like a market of the immortal path, theycked the freedom of the Sword Ruins, where one could soar freely through the skies, unchained and unrestrained!

    Inparison, Yun Xiao found more joy in such vast and boundless realms.

    As he weaved through the 999 sword peaks, a vast and boundless spirit arose in his heart. Even though his body double and the War Princess were busy in the Demon Continent, it didn''t affect his grand state of mind at that moment. It was a will that could swallow the heavens!

    "Exile Yun..." Suddenly, a soft, honeyed voice whispered near his ear.

    Yun Xiao then opened his eyes and looked beside him, where a slender woman in a shimmering golden dress swirled around him like a golden fish, swimming through the heavens and earth, apanying him.

    Of course, this was no ordinary fish but one of grace and fullness.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked, his gaze fixed ahead, his heart as still as an ancient well.

    "I''ve cultivated for decades, and among all I''ve encountered, Exile Yun stands unparalleled in stature, appearance, and demeanor. Gliding through the wind, you possess an ethereal air that even celestial beings in paintings can''t match," Mu Dalong said earnestly, then slightly lowered her head. "These are just my thoughts. If they''re too forward, I beg your pardon."

    "Your praise is too generous, Senior. Physical appearance is but a superficial matter, unworthy of concern. For a Sword Cultivator, the sword is the true beauty," Yun Xiao replied.

    "That''s also true," Mu Dalong nodded slowly, secretly disagreeing with him. Beauty was beauty, and ugliness was ugliness. Most of the time, it didn''t matter, but a man as dreamlike as a celestial being would naturally draw extra nces.

    "Moreover, Senior Mu''s beauty is like a blooming flower on the path of immortality. For me to behold such a sight is a fortune of three lifetimes," Yun Xiaoplimented politely.

    "You have a way with words!" Mu Dalong thought to herself, then slightly bowed her head. "I am already a wife and mother, my youth has passed, and my beauty faded... But to receive praise from Exile Yun still brings me joy."

    Yun Xiao smiled slightly and said no more.

    "We''ve arrived at the valley." Mu Dalong pointed ahead, and there, deep in the Sword Ruins, appeared a valley enveloped in a mist of Immortal energy. It was like a paradise, with swirling clouds, seas of flowers, forests of jade treesa haven hidden from the world.

    "Where is this?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "This is the Valley of Ruins, a sacred site of the Sword Ruins. Its the blessednd where the Sword Warden cultivates and resides, where the spirit energy is richest. But now, my father is often busy elsewhere, leaving only myself and my daughter here. It''s quiet with few people, ideal for Exile Yun''s cultivation... Until the new Exile Pce is built, and you move there with some attendants, this ce will be a bit livelier," Mu Dalong exined softly.

    "No need to build a new Exile Pce. I like it here; I prefer the quiet," Red Moon, in Yun Xiao''s arms, spoke up.

    "Exile Yun knows ventriloquism?" Mu Dalong was a bit surprised.

    "Yes, I like your big..." Red Moon began excitedly but was cut off midway as Yun Xiao plucked it out, slightly embarrassed, "Just idle chatter from a pet, please dont mind it, Senior."

    "I see." Mu Dalong had only heard half of it, an odd expression on her face. She could tell that this Exiled Sword Immortal had a divine countenance, clearly a man of high taste, starkly different from Ling Chen in demeanor. How could his tastes be vulgar?

    As the two chatted, theynded in the Valley of Ruins. Ahead appeared a secluded and elegant courtyard shrouded in mist, bearing a signboard named ''Mu-Mu Hut''.

    "I''ll familiarize myself with the ce first. Then, I''d like it if you could be so kind as to guide me to the Ancestral Sword Tomb," Yun Xiao politely said.

    "Alright." Mu Dalong nodded gracefully, then waved towards the direction of the Mu-Mu Hut, calling out softly.

    "Xiaolong, stop sleeping,e out and meet Exile Yun."

 Chapter 260: Guarded by Both Big and Little Mu!

    Chapter 260: Guarded by Both Big and Little Mu!

    "Xiaolong? And you''re named Dalong?" Yun Xiao blinked in surprise.

    "Yes, that''s the name of my little girl," Mu Dalong said with a slight embarrassment. "My father was a bit hasty in naming her."

    He chuckled in amusement. "What a mother-daughter duo! One is the <em>Big Mu</em>, and the other is the <em>Little Mu</em>."

    "This child, always cking off!" Mu Dalong said, slightly annoyed, and stepped into Mu-Mu Hut first.

    Yun Xiao followed suit, stepping into the residence. The Mu-Mu Hut was a haven of simplicity and elegance, bursting with flowers and nts. Though itcked the osmanthus trees, fish ponds, and stone tables of his Zhao Xuanran''s Little Cloud Residence, it shared a simr style. The air was filled with the fresh scent of grass and wood, and the ce was adorned with corridors, rockeries, and seas of flowers. And, of course,rge yellownterns were hanging everywhere.

    "Nice ce," Yun Xiaomented to himself. The Sword Ruins were vast, and ordinary people couldn''t enter, so this kind of tranquility was quite rare. It was like stepping out of the mundane world. He could finally immerse himself in pure cultivation.

    Yun Xiao strolled behind Mu Dalong along the corridor, his white clothes fluttering and mist swirling around him, looking impossibly dashingit couldn''t be helped; he had the skin of the Creator Immortal!

    "The South Pavilion is a bitrger. I''ve cleaned it up for you," Mu Dalong exined as they walked. "My daughter and I live in the East Pavilion. If you need anything, just call, and I''ll be there."

    "Thank you, Senior Mu," Yun Xiao nodded. Having someone meticulously arrange and schedule everything made his days quite carefree. Thinking about Ling Chen''s situation, with two old men and a stern olddy hovering over him, he felt like he''d lucked out quite a bit.

    "Exile Yun," Mu Dalong said with a smile and a hint of reproach, "Like I said before, you can just call me by my name. You are the reincarnation of a true Immortal, a noble being. Let''s not confuse our statuses."

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    "Ah, okay" Yun Xiao nodded. Since she insisted so strongly, he could only agree.

    "Mom, I''m hungry!" Just then, the door of a distant pavilion burst open with a bang, and a delicate figure appeared before Yun Xiao.

    At a nce, Yun Xiao was dazzled by her youthful radiance.

    "Ah" The figure, groggy and just having stretched in a yawn, suddenly saw Yun Xiao and let out a scream before darting back inside.

    "Uh." Yun Xiao turned away, coughing and averting his gaze, only to meet Mu Dalong''s eyes directly.

    "Sorry about that, my daughter is a bit spoiled. She''s treated you rudely."

    "It''s fine." Yun Xiao shook his head with a wry smile. Still, standing in front of her mother after having just caught an unintentional full view of her daughter was a tad awkward.

    "Mom, who''s outside? Why didn''t you tell me we had a guesting earlier?" A sweet, bell-like voice rang from the pavilion.

    "It''s Exile Yun. Mind your manners," Mu Dalong said softly.

    "Wow!" the girl eximed excitedly. Soon after, she dashed out in a little yellow skirt, bustling with energy.

    Yun Xiao took a good look. The girl was lively and charming, with big, kind eyes. Her hair was tied in two braids, wrapped with shiny hair ties, and she wore bells on her wrists that tinkled as she moved.

    Perhaps in too much of a hurry, she hadn''t even put on shoes and bounced over to Yun Xiao barefoot, blinking her big eyes at him.

    "Hi, Big Bro! I''m Xiaolong, fourteen years old..." Her cheeks were flushed, and she seemed a bit nervous.

    "Fourteen? You''re young," Yun Xiao nodded slightly. Definitely young, even a year younger than Chen Xi.

    "Don''t call him that," Mu Dalong quickly cautioned, grabbing her daughter''s arm. "You should address him as Exile Yun."

    "That doesn''t sound nice!" The girl pouted, her eyes lighting up. She grabbed Yun Xiao''s arm and cooed, "Then can I call you, Fae?"

    "Fae?" Mu Dalong was caught betweenughter and tears at this nickname.

    "Yeah, a fairy, just like an Immortal from a painting!" the girl gushed,pletely forgetting the earlier door incident. She clung to Yun Xiao excitedly, "From now on, I''ll be your loyal fan! Are you going to live with us? That would be wonderful!"

    She twirled around happily, her skirt fluttering.

    "I must say,pared to that other Exiled Sword Immortal, our Fae here really seems like the real reincarnation of an Immortal. That other guy looks like an oaf. Even if he were an Immortal, he''d be a horse keeper in heaven..." The girl babbled excitedly.

    "Quiet!" Mu Dalong, terrified, quickly covered her daughter''s mouth. "Xiaolong, you mustn''t say such things outside."

    "I know, I''m cute, not dumb," the girl said, sticking out her tongue.

    Mu Dalong sighed. She knew her daughter was clever, but she still couldn''t help but worry.

    Yun Xiao, of course, wasn''t offended by her words. In his heart, though, he reflected that Ling Chen was the true reincarnation of an Immortal, while he was merely a mortal given a second chance, quite the opposite of Ling Chen.

    Afterwards, the mother and daughter led Yun Xiao to the South Pavilion, arranging his meals and amodations.

    Mostly it was Mu Dalong making the arrangements. Her daughter just sat beside her, resting her chin on her hands, gazing contently at Yun Xiao.

    "Isn''t he just a sight for sore eyes? How can someone be this good-looking..." She gazed at him, her eyes twinkling like little stars.

    "You knew he wasing and you deliberately didn''t dress properly?" Mu Dalong suddenly leaned in, giving her daughter a stern look.

    "Mom, don''t make stuff up. Am I that kind of person?" The girl gasped, almost hitting her chin on the table.

    "I think you are. You don''t usually sleep in just a baggy top!" Mu Dalong retorted with disdain.

    "Okay, fine." The girl sneaked a peek at Yun Xiao and advised, "Mom, let''s not make things hard."

    "I advise you to keep your dignity. He''s not so easily wooed," Mu Dalong thought. This upright, kind-hearted, high-taste Immortal was ethereal and detached, not easily mired in worldly affairs.

    "I know." The girl pouted, mesmerized by Yun Xiao. "He''s just so handsome, I just want to look at him a little longer, that''s all." Mu Dalong saw her daughter''s fan-girl expression, realizing she was at the age where hearts began to flutter, and decided to let her be.

    Soon, the residence was all set up.

    "Exile Yun, should we rest for a few days or go straight to the Ancestral Sword Tomb?" Mu Dalong asked respectfully, standing in the courtyard. Her only duty now, in the Sword Ruins, was to serve Yun Xiao, taking care of his security and cultivation.

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    "Let''s head for the Ancestral Sword Tomb." Yun Xiao, having taken a moment to collect himself in the pavilion, stood up and dered.

    "I''ll protect Fae too!" Mu Xiaolong said with a hopeful smile, looking at Yun Xiao. Judging by her anxious demeanor, if Yun Xiao refused to let her tag along, she would probably burst into tears.

    "Alright, that''s fine," Yun Xiao nodded with a smile. After all, who could refuse a cute, charming, and endearing girl who knew how to act spoiled?

    Before long, Yun Xiao and the mother-daughter duo traversed the misty valleys of the Sword Ruins, heading towards another part of this mystical area. In about half a morning''s time, they encountered a more profound and solemn canyonthe entrance to the Ancestral Sword Tomb.

    The Ancestral Sword Tomb, a sacred resting ce of the ancestors, usually remained deserted except on the days of ancestral worship. Only on such asions would the entrance see any signs of life. Usually, disciples and Sword Judges were strictly forbidden from nearing it.

    Standing at the entrance of the Ancestral Sword Tomb, Yun Xiao gazed into its depths, seeing the entire area shrouded in a thick white fog. Inside this fog, winds, rain, thunder, and mes churned, clearly infused with a magical power stronger than the Primordial Array, guarding the entire tomb.

    Within the mist, one could barely make out tombstones shaped like swords. These tombstones stood as if they were the venerable ancestors of the Sword Dao, upright even in death, watching over the 999 peaks of the Sword Ruins, blessing their descendants.

    The spirit of the sword was eternal, undying!

    "We''ve arrived," Mu Dalong announced solemnly as they reached the entrance of the Ancestral Sword Tomb. Upon arriving, even Mu Xiaolong grew serious, herughter fading. Clinging to Yun Xiao''s sleeve and looking around timidly, she dared not make a sound.

    Ascending a flight of stone steps, they came upon a colorful array that formed a grand gateway. In front of this gateway stood a humble straw hut, which appeared tock any door.

    Inside, an old man sat cross-legged. His hair and beard were white, his body covered in pocks, his flesh withered, hunched over with dim eyes. This was the Withered Bone Keeper, the guardian of the tomb.

    "Is Overseer Sikong also here?" Mu Dalong peered into the hut, noticing another elder standing beside the Withered Bone Keeper.

    "Greetings, Exile Yun," Overseer Sikong greeted with a warm smile and a respectful demeanor.

    Yun Xiao cast a nce at Overseer Sikong and the Withered Bone Keeper.

    Overseer Sikong greeted him with a smile, while the Withered Bone Keeper sat motionless, head bowed, almost as if life had left him.

    "Is Ling Chen inside?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    "Exile Ling came by but has already left," Overseer Sikong replied with a cheerful smile.

    "Gone so soon?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Yes!" Overseer Sikong''s eyes flickered oddly. "True to his status as the reincarnation of an Immortal, Exile Ling just walked around the Ancestral Sword Tomb and said, ''Nothing of interest here,'' then left."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao pursed his lips. This moment highlighted the difference between a Heavenly Sun Child and Ling Chen.

    If a Heavenly Sun Child had entered the Ancestral Sword Tomb and dared to utter such arrogant, disrespectful words about the ancestors, he would''ve been sternly reprimanded. But as the reincarnation of a true Immortal, it was only expected that the legacy of the Sword Ruins would be beneath him.

    "Clearly, Exile Ling must possess knowledge far surpassing the ancient swordsmanship of the Sword Ruins. His performance in the Immortal Sword Rankings is indeed something to look forward to," Overseer Sikong remarked wistfully.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed, his voice turning icy. "Overseer Sikong, are you trying to pressure me by praising Ling Chen and ying down the Ancestral Sword Tomb just as I''m about to enter?"

    "I wouldn''t dare!" Overseer Sikong was taken aback, not expecting Yun Xiao to so bluntly expose his underlying intentions.

    In truth, that was exactly his aim! Ling Chen, being the reincarnation of an Immortal, dismissed the Ancestral Sword Tomb, possessing true skills that might even benefit the Sword Ruins in the future. And Yun Xiao, a mere pretender to the title of Exiled Sword Immortal, what did he have? These were the thoughts hidden in Overseer Sikong''s heart.

    "My rtionship with Ling Chen is strong. Back in my homnd, I saved his life. If you''re trying to sow discord, be prepared to face the consequences. Understand?" Yun Xiao said coldly.

    With a thud, Overseer Sikong knelt down, his forehead beading with sweat as he hurriedly said, "Exile Yun, please forgive me! I won''t speak carelessly again."

    He knew better than anyone that as long as Yun Xiao didn''t blow his cover as a fake Exiled Sword Immortal, he had the real power to sentence him to death!

    Unlike Ling Chen, Yun Xiao hadn''t publicly renounced his position and power as an Exiled Sword Immortal. Some things could be said, but not now.

    "Ling Chen didn''t tell you about how I saved his life?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked with a smile.

    "Perhaps because I wasn''t personally guarding Exile Ling, I wasn''t aware," Overseer Sikong replied, ncing subconsciously at the Withered Bone Keeper beside him.

    The Withered Bone Keeper remained silent, and Yun Xiao had ignored him from the start.

    "I see," Yun Xiao said, then turned towards the Ancestral Sword Tomb. "Well, open the entrance to the tomb." As he spoke, the Withered Bone Keeper, in an oddly cooperative move, made the misty aura before them swiftly part, revealing an ancient and majestic tomb.

    It was only then that the Withered Bone Keeper spoke in an aged voice, "To learn the way of the sword, first pay homage to the ancestors."

    "Don''t worry. I''ll guide Exile Yun," Mu Dalong said respectfully. She was there for protection, to introduce Yun Xiao to the ce, but not to learn swordsmanship. So, it would count as her breaking the doctrines of the Ancestral Sword Tomb.

    "A woman''s presence, marred by ws, is not permitted in the Ancestral Sword Tomb," the Withered Bone Keeper stated.

    Mu Dalong''s brows furrowed slightly because she had entered before to pay respects, but back then, the tomb guardian hadn''t made any fuss about it.

    "I''m going in with Fae," Mu Xiaolong muttered, slightly displeased.

    The Withered Bone Keeper fell silent at her words.

    "Let''s go, Xiaolong." Yun Xiao''s movement was natural as he took Mu Xiaolong''s hand.

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    This intimate gesture caused Overseer Sikong to frown subtly to himself.

    "So the Sword Warden is so certain Yun Xiao is the real Exiled Sword Immortal, he''s even resorting to using a honeypot?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 261: Taiji Sword, Wuji Dao!

    Chapter 261: Taiji Sword, Wuji Dao!

    Yun Xiao had barely taken a few steps inside the Ancestral Sword Tomb when two sword-shaped tombstones materialized before his eyes. Apart from these, other tombstones lurked, shrouded in a mysterious veil.

    Disregarding the rest, Yun Xiao''s gaze settled on the two distinct tombstones.

    "Gongshu Jian, Gongshu Dao."

    These were the names of the tomb''s upants.

    "Fae, these ancestors were the famed Twin Jailers of our Sword Ruins a thousand years ago. Born as siblings, they have a tale so touching it could melt stone!" eximed Mu Xiaolong, her eyes already brimming with tears, swept away by the story she had yet to tell.

    "Well, let''s hear it then," Yun Xiao encouraged.

    "It''s so moving, I need a moment to weep first! Waaah!" Mu Xiaolong wailed.

    After indulging in her emotions, she continued, "They were born twins. Yet, only the older brother possessed a Sword Soul. One soared in the heavens, the other grounded on earth. Everyone thought the older brother would abandon the younger brother, who would sumb to despair. But the world was wrong!

    "The older brother continued to look after his younger brother, even after bing a Sword Cultivator. And the younger brother, refusing to let his brother down andcking a Sword Soul, zealously pursued the dao. Eventually, one with the sword and one with the dao, the two reached the pinnacle and carved a legend in the Eternal Sword Prison!"

    "What? That kind of story has you drowning in tears?" Yun Xiao didn''t know whether tough or cry.

    "You don''t know the half of it. They faced all sorts of rumors, hardships, and perils together," Mu Xiaolong sobbed.

    "Tell me the rest when we have more time," Yun Xiao said.

    "Sure thing!" Hearing she would have more time alone with Yun Xiao, Mu Xiaolong''s tears turned to joy, and she bounced up, beaming with happiness.

    "Sword and dao, huh?" Yun Xiao gazed at the two tombstones, and before his eyes, the epitaphs began to transform. The tombstone of <em>Gongshu Jian</em> on the left morphed into a Taiji diagram of Yin and Yang fish, while the <em>Gongshu Dao</em> tombstone birthed a chaotic blend of ck and white.

    "Taiji Sword Technique. Wuji Dao Art. They nourish andplete each other, such a beautiful bond," Yun Xiao mused, squinting slightly, "The brotherhood that shines like gall and liver, truly enviable."

    "Pity you don''t have a brother," Blue Star quipped out of the blue.

    "I do," Yun Xiao asserted.

    "Where is he then?" asked Blue Star, puzzled.

    "Right here on my chest." Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Gross." Blue Star feigned gagging.

    "I''m moved, I want to cry too," Red Moon dered, his eyes turning bright redwhich, of course, they always were.

    "Huh?" Mu Xiaolong cried out in surprise. "How did you know the names like Taiji Sword Technique and Wuji Dao Art? I haven''t even told you yet."

    "They told me in a dream," Yun Xiao said, taking the incense from Mu Xiaolong. He approached the graves, bowed, and offered incense to the departed ancestors.

    As the smoke swirled around him, Yun Xiao rose and departed.

    "Aren''t you going to learn these two ultimate techniques?" Mu Xiaolong asked.

    "I''ve already learned them," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Oh, you''re just teasing me," she pouted.

    Mu Xiaolong knew the caliber of the sword and dao techniques. Even Overseers might spend a lifetime studying them without much to show. So, how could Yun Xiao have learned them in the time it took to burn three incense sticks? It was preposterous!

    "Is he just like Exile Ling? Does he also look down on the techniques of our ancestors?" Mu Xiaolong pondered, finding her theory quite usible. But, her thoughts were quickly cut short.

    As the two prepared to venture further, they found their path blocked by an imprable mist.

    "What''s the meaning of this?" Mu Xiaolong, hands on hips and pouting, turned back towards the direction of the thatched hut.

    "It means they only granted me ess to two tombstones for me," Yun Xiao said nonchntly.

    "That damn old gravekeeper is ying tricks on us!" Mu Xiaolong fumed, teeth clenched. "That old dog Sikong said Exile Ling visited and dismissed everything with a sneer. That means the old coot opened the entire Ancestral Sword Tomb for him, right? So why only two tombstones for you? Think they can look down on us? What rubbish! You''re an Exiled Sword Immortal too!"

    Yun Xiao, initially miffed, found his annoyance easing in the face of her adorably indignant demeanor. "It seems this feud between the Sword Warden and Withered Bone Keeper is more intense than I thought. Otherwise, there''s no need to rush in suppressing me."

    Both were allowed into the Ancestral Sword Tomb. Yet, one Exiled Sword Immortal was granted full ess, and the other, begrudgingly, only a small fraction. This favoritism was clearly a way to pressure Yun Xiao, signaling who really ruled the Sword Ruins.

    If Yun Xiao were smart, he''d willingly step back and distance himself from the Sword Warden to avoid any confrontation. Then, their purpose would be served.

    "First they send someone to the Heavenly Realm to dig up dirt on me. Now, they''re harassing me here in the Sword Ruins." A sinister thought flickered in Yun Xiao''s eyes, "They must think I''m an easy target."

    Courtesy before force. They chose force; Yun Xiao had no choice but to abandon courtesy.

    "I won''t stand for this!" The young girl fumed, her anger rising, "I''m going to give that old geezer a piece of my mind! The audacity, half in the grave and still causing trouble!"

    "There''s no need," Yun Xiao said, gently holding her arm, then ncing at the tombstones of the Gongshu brothers. "This is enough."

    "Are you sure?" Mu Xiaolong asked, still seething.

    "Yup. No point in arguing when their minds are made," Yun Xiao replied coolly. To a new arrival like him, both the Withered Bone Keeper and Overseer Sikong were untouchable powerhouses, high above in the heavens. Stripped of his title as an Exiled Sword Immortal, he was but a mid-to-lower tier presence in the Sword Ruins!

    Talent was talent. Strength was strength. Yun Xiao didn''t care about throwing his weight around. He preferred to let his sword do the talking, sweeping through all corners of the world! So, faced with powerhouses beyond his current reach, getting entangled in these word games was pointless. Better to return and cultivate.

    "Once you burn bridges, there''s no going back. Even the title of Exiled Sword Immortal is just paper, easily pierced," Yun Xiao muttered. Why else would he have an Overseer assigned to him for personal protection? Over at Ling Chen''s side, he had three Overseers for protection!

    Any slightly older Heaven-level disciple of the Sword Ruins could easily wipe the floor with them.

    "Let''s go." With no more to say, Yun Xiao left the Ancestral Sword Tomb with Mu Xiaolong.

    "Aren''t you going to cultivate more?" the Withered Bone Keeper suddenly asked.

    "Next time," Yun Xiao said, ncing at him, "Then, I might trouble you to grant ess to a few more tombstones."

    "Sure, just a word is all it takes." The skeletal figure slowly raised his head, his cloudy eyes meeting Yun Xiao''s. Suddenly, he smiled, revealing a toothless gum.

    "Don''t worry about the Sword Ruins. I''ll report everything to my father, and he''ll sort it out with the Overseers," Mu Dalong said apologetically, her face full of regret. She hadn''t expected these people to be so brazen.

    "So annoying!" Mu Xiaolong was still fuming. "They opened just two of the most challenging ancestral tombstones, clearly trying to trouble you."

    "The techniques of the two Gongshu ancestors are indeed among the most difficult in the Ancestral Sword Tomb. Not even many Sword Wardens through the ages have learned them..." Mu Dalong said helplessly.

    Their trip to the Ancestral Sword Tomb had yielded nothing save for petty harassment, leaving her feeling uneasy. Throughout the journey, Yun Xiao hadn''t spoken a word, seemingly lost in some profound thought, his fingers tracing patterns in the air.

    "It seems I need the actual Sword Intent to make the most of it," Yun Xiao suddenly murmured to himself.

    "Hey, Fae. What are you talking about?" Mu Xiaolong asked, confused.

    Yun Xiao was about to reply when he heard amotion nearby. Deep within the thick fog, there seemed to be a buzz of activity!

    "What''s this ce?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Sword Puppet Forest!" Mu Xiaolong replied.

    "So lively?"

    Mu Xiaolong smacked her forehead. "Oh, I remember now! Today is the pre-registration day for the Immortal Sword Rankings. If you want to participate, we need to register too."

    "In this Sword Puppet Forest?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes! To qualify, you just need to defeat a Rock Sword Puppet equivalent to the Early Awakened Emperor Realm," Mu Xiaolong exined, then asked softly, "I heard you''re only at the Saint Realm. Can you defeat a Sword Puppet?"

    "Let''s give it a try," Yun Xiao said.

    "Okay!" At this, Mu Dalong changed course, leading them towards the Sword Puppet Forest.

    Yun Xiao surveyed thendscape ahead, where a vast bamboo forest appeared, with some bamboo reaching up to thirty feet high and as thick as a man''s thigh. Beyond the bamboo, amidst the mist, stood a towering golden pir.

    "That''s the Immortal Sword Rankings. The uing battles for thepetition will take ce right there," Mu Xiaolong exined.

    "Got it!" Yun Xiao nodded and proceeded towards the Sword Puppet Forest.

    The ce was bustling with activity. At a nce, there seemed to be tens of thousands of Sword Ruins disciples queuing up for the challenge.

    "Exile Yun is here too!"

    "Is he going to test himself against the Sword Puppets just like Exile Ling?"

    Countless young eyes turned towards Yun Xiao, their gazes filled with aplex mix of emotions, far moreplicated than when they looked at Ling Chen.

    "Sister, Xiaolong!" Just as Yun Xiao arrived, a massive shadow loomed over him, and a gust of wind nearly sent him stumbling backwards. It was a bit too fierce!

    <em>BOING! </em>Yun Xiao took two steps back and found himself in a soft embrace, cushioning his fall.

    Turning around, Mu Dalong offered an apologetic smile, then furrowed her brows in disapproval, scolding the neer, "Mu Daxiong! Can''t you be a bit more careful?"

    "Big Sis!"

    Yun Xiao suddenly found himself face to face with a dark-skinned giant of a man, almost as tall as a devil. Despite being a Sword Cultivator, the man was a mass of muscles, intimidating and formidable.

    "This is my brother, currently a Supreme Adjudicator," Mu Dalong hurriedly introduced. "Daxiong can be a bit rough around the edges, so please forgive any rudeness."

    "No worries," Yun Xiao reassured, eyeing Mu Daxiong curiously. In the Heavenly Realm, this guy would probably be the heir to an Immortal Empire. But here in the Sword Ruins, he was just a Supreme Adjudicator?

    This meant the Sword Ruins weren''t a hereditary systemostensibly more fair, but in reality, even more fiercelypetitive.

    "Mu Daxiong, at your service, Exile Yun!" The Supreme Adjudicator was about to kneel in respect.

    "Please, stand up..." Yun Xiao, bemused, found this family''s enthusiasm overwhelming.

    Seeing Yun Xiao wasn''t bothered by his blundering, Mu Daxiong stood up, grinning sheepishly, and then bellowed to the crowd. "Make way, let Exile Yun to the front!"

    Clearly, he was in charge of the pre-registration for the Immortal Sword Rankings.

    "Dad! Dad! We can''t do that. Exile Ling is already at the front!" Another dark-skinned youngster rushed over, round-faced and pot-bellied, resembling a bear cub standing on two legs. He appeared and, scratching his head, gave Yun Xiao a goofy smile.

    "The father is Daxiong. So, the son has to be Xiaoxiong, right?" Yun Xiao guessed. After all, he''d already seen the same pattern y out with the mother-daughter duo.

    "Nope, I''m Mu Qinghuan." The youngster grinned.

    "Ah?" Yun Xiao was struck speechless. Abo breaker! And such a shame, too. He felt a name like <em>Lil Bear</em> suited the burly youth more than something girly like <em>Clear Joy</em>.

    "Exile Ling is here too?" Mu Dalong looked towards the front. No wonder it was so lively! All eyes were on the young man in the dark violet robe standing in the clearing.

    "Exile Ling is only in the Late Saint Realm. Can he beat a Sword Puppet?"

    The crowd buzzed with spection.

    In the midst of all this attention, Ling Chen''s eyes turned cold, and he said to Mu Daxiong, "Bring me a hundred Sword Puppets."

 Chapter 262: Extraordinarily Mediocre Exile Yun

    Chapter 262: Extraordinarily Mediocre Exile Yun

    "A hundred Sword Puppets?"

    Ling Chen''s casual remark stirred up a storm in the Sword Puppet Forest. Many disciples from the Sword Ruins gazed fervently at the once-disgraced scion of the Ling family. They inhaled a sharp breath, their eyesced with a hint of awe.

    "Sword Puppets are made of spiritual weapon material, supplemented by formation symbols and immortal jade. Wielding a Gxy grade magic treasure, they possess thebat strength of the Early Awakened Emperor Realm. A hundred of them attacking together could overwhelm even someone in the Late Awakened Emperor Realm!"

    "But Exile Ling has just awakened his talent, he''s only in thete stages of the Saint Realm..."

    To face a hundred alone, Ling Chen had to ovee a difference of an entire realm!

    Among the crowd was a girl in a green dress, as slender as a willow, her skin as white as snow. She was strikingly beautiful. Even in this Sword Puppet Forest, crowded with talents and beauties, she stood out like a crane amongst chickens.

    She gazed at Ling Chen with dewy eyes, excitedly saying, "In our Nine Hells, such an aplishment is unprecedented, and there will be no one to follow."

    "Junior Sister Feng, you''re in the Late Awakened Emperor Realm. If you were to face a hundred Sword Puppets, would you stand a chance?" a disciple asked with a smile.

    The green-dressed girl named Feng Ruolin, clutching her skirt, shook her head slightly. "I wouldn''t stand a chance at all."

    Hearing this, the crowd felt the weight of Ling Chen''s challenge even more.

    "Junior Sister Feng and Exile Ling, truly a match made in heaven, a perfect pair."

    "A talented man and a beautiful woman. It''s truly like the tale of the golden boy and jade girl."

    Hearing these praises, Feng Ruolin''s face flushed red, and she hurriedly said, "Don''t talk nonsense, he is an Exiled Sword Immortal. I''m just amon girl."

    Seeing her bashful and charming demeanor, the crowd couldn''t help but reflect. Once Feng Ruolin and Ling Chen were like a phoenix in the sky and a wild chicken on the ground. One was the direct granddaughter of Overseer Feng, and the other a mere sword ve expelled by the Ling Family. Now, the wild chicken had soared to the heavens, and even the phoenix was beside him, begging for attention.

    "Everyone, let''s watch Exile Ling create a miracle."

    Feng Ruolin smiled softly, cleverly shifting everyone''s attention to the defiant young hero.

    "The Sword Puppets are here!"

    <em>RUMBLE RUMBLE RUMBLE! </em>Beyond that vast bamboo foresty a giant stone gate! At this moment, the gate thunderously opened, and a hundred humanoid shadows appeared. As they moved, a grating sound of steel friction echoed, their bodies d in heavy armor. Underneath the armor, formation symbols could be seen working, and each shadow wielded a magical treasure sword!

    "It''s truly a higher level world. Even a single Sword Puppet in the Heavenly Realm could battle the Violet Emperor," Yun Xiao mused to himself. He knew that the Divine Continent was but an isted ind, a minuscule dot in the vast cosmos!

    The Creator Immortal hadid out a hierarchy of cultivation systems, also differentiatingyers of worlds to preserve the dignity of those at the lower levels. Without this separation, human lives would be no more than ants. It was a form of protection!

    At that moment, the Sword Puppet Forest erupted inmotion again. It was because Ling Chen had already summoned his nine-colored Sword Soul! Seeing the mythical and dazzling Sword Soul again stirred excitement in the crowd.

    "The power of space?" Yun Xiao recalled hearing from Blue Star that this sword was called the Divine Cosmic Sword, with a significant history. It exceeded the level of Ling Chen''s past life. Simrly, Zhao Xuanran''s Cosmic Pagoda and Cosmic Stars wielded the power of time.

    Under the watchful eyes of thousands, Ling Chen''s face remained calm as he held the nine-colored Sword Soul in one hand. He felt the power of the sword, a slight smile ying at the corner of his mouth.

    "The ultimate power of space, nine great worlds hidden within the sword. With this Divine Cosmic Sword as my Sword Soul, how can this life''s limitpare to my past?" With this thought, his brows slightly furrowed as he faced the hundred Sword Puppets charging towards him, a storm of sword energy brewing in his eyes.

    "In this way, the Divine Sky Sword Dao I''ve immersed in for 100,000 years may find new horizons in this life." At this moment, Ling Chen forgot the noise around him! He lost himself in the world of his fingertips and the Flying Sword, racing through the endless void for a million years. Many things were forgotten, but his hatred and the Divine Sky Sword Dao remained eternal!

    The disciples of the Sword Ruins watched in trepidation as the Sword Puppets drew their swords, seemingly about to engulf him. Feng Ruolin, the stunningly beautiful disciple, sped her hands together, her heart pounding like a little deer.

    Yet, at this moment, Ling Chen closed his eyes! Calm as a mountain, he seemed unfazed by the hundred Sword Puppets approaching him, as if they were mere snowkes.

    Suddenly, with ease, Ling Chen flung out the nine-colored Flying Sword!

    "Flying Sword, Vast Sky!" Ling Chen murmured with his eyes closed, a smile on his face. The familiar feeling returned. Space, heaven, and earthy before him, both close and far. His soul resided in the sword!

    This sensation of his soul traversing the vast void with the Divine Cosmic Sword returned, signifying a new evolution in his past life''s Divine Sky Sword Dao.

    One sword, soaring through the sky!

    The nine-colored Sword Soul appeared calm like a gentle breeze over still waters, yet it struck like a stone tossed into ake! The space where the Sword Puppets were became the surface of theke. And those Sword Puppets were like leaves floating on this tranquil surface.

    <em>SPLASH! </em>The stone hits the water, theke ripples, and spatial waves radiate outward!

    As the sword swept through, the sky trembled! The whole world seemed to ripple in the water

    With just one stroke, a hundred Sword Puppets were decapitated!

    <em>THUD THUD THUD! </em>They fell to the ground like scrap metal, motionless.

    The young man held the Flying Sword, lightly blew on its tip, his smile pure and natural.

    Numerous disciples of the Sword Ruins witnessed this scene, their eyes wide, recalling the shock of the moment when the Eternal Sword hummed nine times. This single sword stroke, too, pierced their hearts, a memory tost a lifetime!

    "Exile Ling!"

    A booming cheer of admiration echoed through the Sword Puppet Forest.

    "With Exile Ling in our Eternal Sword Prison, how can we not dominate in the Nine Hellspetition?"

    "The heavens aid the Sword Ruins, a true Immortal reincarnated!"

    Their excited, fervent eyes told Yun Xiao, even if Ling Chen''s cultivation was lower than many present, his potential and depth had conquered all.

    "This power to ovee cultivation stages, he''s almost like me?" Yun Xiao was slightly surprised at the scene.

    "That''s normal! Compared to you, he has memories from a past life, and practicing swordsmanship from his previous life, his foundation is better." Blue Star paused, "But that''s his limit, while your Creator Immortal journey is just beginning."

    "Soar the sky, huh?" Yun Xiao closed his eyes, smiling slightly, "By showing off there, he ended up revealing a bit of his hand."

    "And?" Blue Star asked curiously.

    Yun Xiao didn''t answer, as someone else brought up his presence.

    For a moment, all eyes were fixed on him, including Ling Chen''s. Two tigers couldn''t share the same mountain.

    After Ling Chen''s miraculous feat, everyone subconsciously wondered how Yun Xiao would fare next.

    "Yun Xiao, are you going to challenge a million Sword Puppets?" Feng Ruolin asked, trying to y innocent with a smile on her face.

    Ling Chen stood beside her, appearing quite intimate. He was in a good mood with Feng Ruolin by his side until he saw the two striking figures beside Yun Xiao. "What the hell"

    The Divine Sky Sword Emperor from his past life had no other hobbies, except for the asional love affair. During those million years of solitude, he often had to resort to dull, solo swordy tobat his loneliness.

    So, after being reborn, Ling Chen himself didn''t even anticipate his reignited penchant for beauties.

    Even heroes could falter at the charms of beautiful women. Amon dream among those who defied fate was to roam skies and seas with thepany of beauties at their beck and call. Then, when they aplished all that they wanted, they would look to retire in paradise to enjoy the harem life. This dream tended to be awkward when the so-called hero saw another man with more beautifulpanions.

    Yun Xiao was unaware of the strange thoughts fleeting through Ling Chen''s mind at that moment.

    "A million Sword Puppets?"

    Feng Ruolin suggested this number, obviously rting it to Ling Cheng''s nine resonances to Yun Xiao''s 100,000. Her implication was clear. Yun Xiao was supposedly more than 10,000 times better than Ling Chen. So, he should challenge 10,000 times more Sword Puppets? She was effectively cornering Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao''s performance at the Sword Baptism Ceremony was a testament to the Creator Immortal''s superiority over the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, not him being 10,000 times stronger than Ling Chen!

    How could he possibly challenge a million Sword Puppets?

    "The young miss must be joking," Mu Daxiong said, stepping forward. "We only have about a hundred Sword Puppets to begin with. Where would a millione from? They''ve all been destroyed by Exile Ling''s single strike. Now, we have to wait for these Sword Puppets to self-repair, which will take about fifteen minutes."

    Sword Puppets could repair themselves automatically! A hundred were prepared in total. If one was destroyed, it would fix itself a momentter. So, they were plenty enough.

    Hearing this, the crowd looked oddly at Feng Ruolin. Anyone with a brain could tell she was mocking Yun Xiao.

    "What''s her angle in doing this?" Everyone shared the same question in their hearts.

    In any case, it would be a fifteen minute wait to witness the performance of the second Exiled Sword Immortal. This sense ofpetition excited the disciples of the Sword Ruins, as if watching two Immortals duel.

    Who was the true immortal? Who was the pretender? It would all be clear as day.

    As people eagerly anticipated Yun Xiao''s performance in fifteen minutes, Yun Xiao surprisingly asked Mu Daxiong, Aren''t there any spare Sword Puppets around?

    There''s one, but only one, Mu Daxiong replied, somewhat puzzled.

    Ling Chen had already set a high bar. Wasn''t Yun Xiao eager to showcase his prowess? He knew Yun Xiao''s reputation was a bit shaky, propped up by the Sword Warden. If he showed any hesitation here, his image would plummet.

    A single Sword Puppet will do for a prelim, Yun Xiao dered. His words cast a hush over the Sword Puppet Forest, leaving everyone bewildered, exchanging nces in a silent tumult.

    Are you sure? Mu Daxiong asked, wide-eyed.

    Let''s proceed, Yun Xiao replied. In the unpredictable world of the <em>Jianghu</em>, who could avoid inevitable shes? Already entangled in this Sword Baptism Ceremony, some confrontations couldn''t be avoided, nor should they be.

    Tell the truth, you saved him because you wanted a friend on your path of cultivation. That <em>fat sheep</em> bit was just for us, right? Blue Star suddenly interjected.

    Why would I hide my true feelings from you two? Yun Xiao replied softly, stepping towards the clearing.

    Because the Creator Immortal we know was an indifferent being. But you, youre full of emotions and desires. This human touch will shape your approach to redefining the Creator Immortal, Blue Star paused, But be prepared for disappointment, brother! A person might want you to do well, but not better than them. The moment you surpass them, gratitude turns to resentment.

    Disappointment or not, it doesnt matter. Its all a game. I wont be sentimental, nor will I show mercy, Yun Xiao said. Offering an opportunity wasn''t being overly sentimental. And if it didn''t lead to a good oue, he wouldn''t hesitate to act decisively! He was doing as he always did, and that was to act from the heart!

    "Some things may seem like just added trouble, but it''s through these trials we find our gains," Yun Xiao mused, now standing at the center of everyone''s attention. Opposite him, a solitary, grim metal Sword Puppet stood, a stark contrast in the bustling crowd.

    "The test begins!" Mu Daxiong announced, and a wave of disappointment rippled through the onlookers. They yearned for a sh of titans, not a simple disy.

    Amidst the sighs and murmurs, the Sword Puppet drew its magic treasure sword, its foot striking the ground, fracturing it with immense force. Its sword, like a tempest, lunged at Yun Xiao!

    But Yun Xiao simply lifted his hand, sending forth a Flying Sword. His Heaven Burial Sword Soulcked the dazzling colors of Ling Chen''s nine-colored Sword Soul, and its trajectory seemed unremarkable at first nce.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As the Flying Sword neared the Sword Puppet, the de vibrated abruptly, like a stone breaking the serenity of ake''s surface.

    <em>SPLASH! </em>The space around the Sword Puppet twisted subtly, rippling like water disturbed. Even the sky seemed to undte! A shrill, piercing scream echoed as the Heaven Burial Sword Soul prated the Sword Puppet.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Sword Puppet exploded spectacrly, disintegrating into countless fragments, scattering in all directions.

    "To demonstrate some truths, you don''t need a hundred Sword Puppets. Those who are willing, will understand," Yun Xiao dered. He caught the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and turned to look at Ling Chen in the crowd.

    Sure enough, Ling Chen''s eyes widened in disbelief, his facial muscles trembling intensely.

    "Brother Ling, thank you for your grace," Yun Xiao said with a bow.

    "Brother Yun" Ling Chen struggled to speak, managing only two words, seemingly at a loss for more.

    "Scared, is he?" Blue Star scoffed.

    Yun Xiao inhaled sharply. "His skin fears, but you''re right, his bones don''t ept it."

    Ling Chen was the Divine Sky Sword Emperor. Even though a million years had passed, his essence merged and muddled, his true nature remained unchangeable.

    "Missed an opportunity. You should have just shown off!" Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    "Bluey, I thought you were the smart one! They only have a hundred Sword Puppets here. What''s the point of showing off, only to do the same thing that guy already did?" Red Moon said disdainfully.

    Yun Xiao ignored the banter of the little ck creature in his robe and approached the burly man, "Daxiong, am I registered for the Immortal Sword Rankings now?"

    "Yep! Yep!" Mu Daxiong bit his lip, signaling his sister Mu Dalong with a look, whispering, "Quick, take Yun Xiao away. Don''t let him hear too much gossip."

    Sadly, it was toote. Feng Ruolin''s sarcastic voice echoed behind Yun Xiao. With a smirk, shemented, "Exile Yun is impressive too. Slicing a single Sword Puppet into countless pieces. It''s just as shocking as Exile Ling piercing the void and annihting a hundred Sword Puppets in one strike."

    A few disciples in the crowd couldn''t help but burst intoughter. The disparity between the two feats was seemingly clear to all. Her so-called praise only highlighted the gap between Yun Xiao and Ling Chen.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 263 - Redefining the Word Genius

    Chapter 263 - Redefining the Word Genius

    Yun Xiao did nothing more than send a warning with his sword, yet aside from Ling Chen, nobody truly grasped its meaning.

    "This little bitch..." Mu Xiaolong fumed, steam practicallying out of her ears.

    Feng Ruolin''s provocation shifted the way the disciples of Sword Ruins viewed Yun Xiao, their expressions now tinged with strangeness.

    A little peeved, Yun Xiao turned around and saw Feng Ruolin, arms crossed, unting her undeniable charm. Behind her, not too far away, stood Ling Chen, his gaze still fixed on Yun Xiao, eyes seemingly holding a thousand profound thoughts. Yet, he didn''t step forward to speak for Yun Xiao.

    Standing close to Ling Chen were Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, and Shuang Jiang, all fiercely guarding him.

    SWOOSH! Suddenly, Yun Xiao marched straight towards Feng Ruolin! In a sh, he stood a mere foot away from the attractive young woman.

    Feng Ruolin, caught off guard by the stunning youth before her, faltered for a moment. To be honest, she was indeed swayed by his looks. But the thought of him being a fake Exiled Sword Immortal soured her expression with rejection. Was this impotent rage?

    Feng Ruolin scoffed internally, rolling her eyes slightly and said in a sarcastic tone, ¡°Exile Yun, I was only praising you. You wouldn''t be angry, would you...¡± She barely finished her sentence when¡ª

    STAB! An azure sword pierced through her back!

    "Ah..." Feng Ruolin felt a sharp pain in her chest. Trembling, she looked down to see her own blood flowing down along the sword in Yun Xiao''s hand.

    "Exile Yun... you..." She never dreamed that, under such public scrutiny, the fake Exiled Sword Immortal would dare to strike her down. After all, she had never encountered someone who so tantly defied convention.

    THUD! Yun Xiao withdrew his Sword Soul, severing her shocked head with a single stroke and tossing it at the feet of Feng Buhui and the others.

    "Don''t try to be clever in front of me again. Such low-level mockerycks any originality, got it?" Yun Xiao''s eyes swept over the crowd.

    All around the Sword Ruins, there was dead silence.

    Feng Ruolin''s severed head, eyes wide as saucers,y on the ground, staring nkly at the sky. Her once admirable figure, now drenched in blood,y rigidly on the ground.

    "You!" Feng Buhui''s eyes split with fury as he roared. He never dreamed Yun Xiao would act so directly¡­ Otherwise, he would never have allowed a junior to ughter his granddaughter right in front of him.

    "Don''t move." Ling Chen''s deep voice calmed the raging Feng Buhui.

    By now, everyone had caught on! Mu Xiaolong and Mu Dalong appeared beside Yun Xiao, guarding him fiercely and ring at Feng Buhui.

    "Feng Buhui, you dare to kill an Exiled Sword Immortal?" Yun Xiao''s eyes swirled with a storm of sword energy.

    "I dare not!" Feng Buhui nced at Ling Chen, bowed his head, and stepped back.

    "Good for you, acting the coward just in time to save yourself from the jaws of death," Yun Xiao sneered. Then, turning to Mu Dalong, he asked, "Shouldn''t a mere Supreme Disciple die for disrespecting an Exiled Sword Immortal?"

    With a mix of emotions on her face, Mu Dalong nodded. "Yes!"

    "That settles it, then." Yun Xiao smiled in satisfaction.

    With the nine resonances of the Eternal Sword, an Exile Sword Immortal''s authority was asserted! Equal in status to the Sword Warden, he was like a second Sword Warden himself. Given such power, Yun Xiao never thought of not using it. Worst case, he''d leave in his coffin!

    "Brother Ling," Yun Xiao looked up at him and chuckled lightly. "They don''t understand the lofty position of an Exiled Sword Immortal. I''ll teach them myself. I didn''t scare you, did I?"

    "Brother Yun, you jest," Ling Chen nced at Feng Ruolin''s body, his face showing a strange expression. "As cultivators, we must understand hierarchy and respect."

    "Indeed!" Yun Xiao paused, looking towards the towering column behind the Sword Ruins, and said, "Since we''re registered, we''ll meet at the Immortal Sword Rankings. Perhaps you and I will have the opportunity to spar publicly."

    "I look forward to joining you in glorifying our path of the sword," Ling Chen responded earnestly.

    Yun Xiao nodded and then turned to leave on his Sovereign Sword.

    Mu Daolong, escorting her daughter, hurriedly followed, looking almost like two attendants.

    "Ruolin..." Feng Buhui''s heart burned with a thousand mes of rage, with nowhere to vent, scorching his very soul.

    "Don''t speak!" Ling Chen, his gaze deep and thoughtful, watched Yun Xiao leave. "Back to the Exile Pce."

    "Yes!" Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, and Shuang Jiang coldly nodded in agreement.

    After both Exiled Sword Immortals had departed, the tens of thousands of disciples in the Sword Ruins remained silent, daring not to speak a word.

    "A fake! To kill so brazenly, what audacity!" A young disciple, eyes red with anger, couldn''t hold back his resentment anymore and muttered through gritted teeth.

    "Don''t say it if you don''t want to die!"

    Several others quickly hushed him, their faces filled with fear.

    "Ah..."

    They exchanged nces and sighed deeply.

    "As long as his facade remains unexposed, our entire Sword Ruins will be plunged into darkness."

    "Wait for the Immortal Sword Rankings. Then, he won¡¯t have anyone to protect him..."

    The atmosphere in the Sword Ruins was more serious than ever.

    "Dad! Dad!" Suddenly, the dark-skinned Mu Qinghuan ran up to Mu Daxiong, his expression filled with terror.

    "What''s all the fuss about?" Mu Daxiong asked, weighed down by heavy thoughts. Their favored horse''s reputation in the Sword Ruins was crumbling, and he feared the wrath of the Sword Warden.

    "It''s something so shocking it''ll make you choke!" Mu Qinghuan eximed excitedly.

    "Cut the nonsense!" Mu Daxiong grabbed his ear. "I''m already in a bad mood, don''t mess around."

    "It''s about Exile Yun!" Mu Qinghuan roared.

    "Ah?" Mu Daxiong finally let go, saying, "Speak!"

    Mu Qinghuan excitedly raised a small metal fragment, "Dad, look at this!"

    "What is this?" Mu Daxiong took it and asked.

    "It''s from the Sword Puppet he destroyed!" Mu Qinghuan exined.

    "Oh?" Mu Daxiong felt it and shook his head, "Destroyed sopletely, this puppet is totally useless now. This shows Exile Yun''s talent is indeed remarkable, but..."

    He still wasn''t quite at the talent of Ling Chen.

    "No, it''s not that!" Mu Qinghuan whispered urgently. "I counted the fragments out of boredom and was terrified! Dad, guess how many fragments he sliced up the puppet into?"

    "Tens of thousands, maybe? Is it a lot? I could smash it to dust with a bit more force," Mu Daxiong said indifferently.

    "It''s not the fact that he cut it up into so many pieces!"

    "Then what''s the issue?"

    "Dad!" Mu Qinghuan grabbed his father''s arm, his voice trembling with excitement, "It''s that he cut it up into exactly 100,000 pieces! Exactly, not one more or less! It''s incredibly precise!"

    "100,000..." Mu Daxiong was momentarily stunned. He thought of the sound of a hundred thousand sword cries, bewildered, "A coincidence? Perhaps you counted wrong?"

    "I''m absolutely certain!" Mu Qinghuan was still agitated, pulling his father closer and continuing, wide-eyed, "And there''s something even more terrifying!"

    "What?" Mu Daxiong''s voice took on a more serious tone.

    "These 100,000 fragments of the Sword Puppet, each one weighs exactly the same! I just weighed them!" Mu Qinghuan eximed.

    "Impossible, right?"

    To slice an object into 100,000 pieces, all of equal weight¡ªwas this about murder or creating an art piece?

    "Here!" Mu Qinghuan pulled out a dozen fragments for Mu Daxiong, saying, "These are just a few I picked up randomly. Can you tell if their weights are different?"

    Mu Daxiong grabbed them and instantly knew the answer. "Damn!" He was dumbfounded, staring in the direction where Yun Xiao had left. His eyes werepletely wide in shock.

    "This is way more impressive than Exile Ling destroying a hundred Sword Puppets with a single strike, right? What kind of terrifying control with the sword is this? I dare say no one else in Eternal Sword Prison can do this! Even those old monsters with a greater cultivation than Exile Yun couldn''t achieve this effect."

    Mu Daxiong took a deep breath, his expressionpletely changing, his previous worries vanishing!

    "Dad, that''s not all..." Mu Qinghuan said solemnly.

    "There''s more?" Mu Daxiong felt a chill.

    "Take a closer look at each fragment..." Mu Qinghuan''s voice was still shaking.

    Mu Daxiong hurriedly looked down! "Holy...!" He was astounded to see that each fragment of the Sword Puppet was engraved with a tiny Taiji Yin Yang fish symbol, no bigger than the eye of a fish! But the entire pattern was clear and meticulous.

    Mu Daxiong quickly examined several other fragments, all bearing the same symbol! His mind reeled as he said, "One hundred thousand pieces, all with this Taiji symbol?"

    "They all have it..." Mu Qinghuan was amazed, then asked, "Dad, how was this done? Just with one swing of a sword? Is this even human?"

    "This is the Taiji Sword Art of ancestor Gongshu Dao... Your aunt said that Exile Yun went to the Ancestral Sword Tomb to pay respects to the two Gongshu ancestors before leaving..." Upon uttering those words, Mu Daxiong''s eyes nearly rolled back in his head.

    "Ah?" Mu Qinghuan was so startled he fell backward onto the ground.

    However, the two had missed one crucial detail. Yun Xiao''s recent strike had also integrated Ling Chen''s own swordsmanship¡ªDivine Sky, Vast Sky¡ªinto the Taiji Sword Art.

    "Exile Yun has redefined the word genius. In his presence, all other so-called geniuses are nothing but rubbish!" Mu Qinghuan scrambled to his feet, gripping his father''s shoulders with fervor. "Dad! Quick! We need to spread this sensational news, clear Exile Yun''s name! All these naysayers, doubting Exile Yun''s talent? Let them see his true terror, and Exile Yun will instantly be a god in their eyes!"

    In this world, right and wrong were subjective; it was all about perception. Ling Chen didn''t do anything special; he was just universally respected, so everything he did was seen as correct.

    "Wait!" Mu Daxiong suddenly grabbed his son, his eyes shing with thought.

    "Wait for what? Talent is justice!" Mu Qinghuan argued with a puzzled look.

    Mu Daxiong, gripping his son''s ears, spoke sternly, "Justice, my foot! Listen to me, don''t breathe a word of this to anyone."

    With that, he turned to leave.

    "Dad, where are you going?"

    "To see your grandfather!" Mu Daxiong said and swiftly departed, leaving even the pre-registration for the Immortal Sword Rankings behind.

    Mu Qinghuan was stunned! But soon, he caught on, a cold smile creeping across his lips. "I get it! It''s enough that our Mu Family knows how terrifying Exile Yun is. Let those bootlickers of Ling Chen offend him one after another. In the end, they''ll meet the same fate as Feng Ruolin! Once these opportunists are gone, Eternal Sword Prison will be cleansed!"

    He was now utterly convinced. "Exile Yun''s talent¡­ if the Eternal Sword is correct, it should be eleven resonances! No, maybe even twelve!"

 Chapter 264 - Inscription Cultivator!

    Chapter 264 - Inscription Cultivator!

    In the Exile Pce, a young man in a dark violet robe sat with the dignity of a mountain on a throne of honor. Below him stood three Overseers from the Sword Ruins, their bodies bowed, eyes downcast and focused, wrapped in a prolonged silence.

    "He replicated my technique? Who is he, really..." Ling Chen furrowed his brows deeply, his gaze flickering dozens of times in the darkness. Memories of powerful beings from all the celestial courts shed through his mind.

    "Could it be Zixuan? He did steal my sword techniques... No, that can''t be. After harming me, Zixuan usurped my Immortal position. He couldn''t possibly be reborn, could he?" With his experience, Ling Chen knew that the world''s unimaginable geniuses were either nobodies who stumbled upon miraculous treasures or great beings reborn.

    "It''s not like someone can just watch me use a technique once and learn it, right?" Ling Chen shook his head. Even with his 100,000 years as the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, he had never heard of such a thing.

    "What is going on here?" His gaze deepened. Reborn and cultivating anew, he felt frustrated for the first time, as if his unstoppable rise was being held back.

    "He saved me once. I thought about making him my underling, but now..." Ling Chen''s expression became oddly twisted, a strange difort stirring in his heart. But soon, he let it go. "After enduring a million years of destion, forging the Divine Cosmic Sword into my bones, my ambition is to overturn the heavens and return to the Divine Sky Immortal Court. How can I let a few obstacles confuse and disturb my Dao Heart?"

    Ling Chen chuckled softly. "Brother Yun, whoever you are, I''m in this game too." With a whoosh, he stood up, his eyes sweeping over Overseers Feng, Yun, and Shuang. He spoke calmly, "You three, stop troubling Yun Xiao."

    "Exile Ling, why? He''s just a pretender..." Feng Buhui had waited so long, hoping Ling Chen would bring them justice.

    "He''s no pretender," Ling Chen replied coolly.

    "But based on today''s events in the Sword Puppet Forest, he''s clearly inferior to Exile Ling," Shuang Jiang remarked indifferently.

    "You''re not seeing the whole picture." Ling Chen waved his hand dismissively. "He''s quite good, so a bit of arrogance is normal. Youthful brashness and defiance are the essence of youth."

    "Yes...!" the trio responded, heads bowed, faces a mix of confusion and curiosity, unsure why Ling Chen praised him so.

    Feng Buhui''s eyes widened in surprise. "From your tone, could Yun Xiao''s talent actually rival yours?"

    Ling Chen offered a slight smile but didn''t answer directly. Instead, he said, "Rx, I have my ways to subdue him, to make him willingly serve me. Once the Sword Warden loses Yun Xiao''s support, the day I acquire the Sword Relic won''t be far off."

    Such was his nature. In his past life, he cultivated a majestic Dao Heart. He never knew fear, and carved a path through ughter. He was known as the one whose will spanned the heavens, the Divine Sky Sword Emperor!

    To him, obstacles were meant to be ovee. Reborn, poised to rise again, his fiery ambition aze, how could he falter at mere difficulties before reforging the crucial Dao Heart? Better to have perished a million years ago than to live with such a lingering obsession for revenge.

    "Yes!" The three Overseers seemed somewhat relieved by Ling Chen''s resolute statement. Even Feng Buhui, grieving for his granddaughter, set aside his hatred for the greater good, knowing that confronting Yun Xiao while he wore the mantle of Exiled Sword Immortal was a death wish.

    "Instruct your disciples not to mock him openly; if they die, they deserve it," Ling Chenmanded sternly.

    "Understood," The Overseers nodded. Thismand would surely frustrate their disciples, but it had to be endured.

    "Also, I''ve heard you sent people to the Divine and Demon Continents to dig up dirt on Yun Xiao?" Ling Chen''s gaze shifted to Yun Xinghe.

    Biting his lip, Yun Xinghe nodded. "Yes!"

    "Don''t bother with such pointless endeavors. It''s just a resourcepetition, no need to cast ourselves as the viins. He saved my life; even inpetition, I prefer to be honorable," Ling Chen stated gravely.

    Overseers Feng, Yun, and Shuang exchanged nces and nodded. Though this investigation was the Withered Bone Keeper''s arrangement, they were just following orders.

    "Speaking of resourcepetition..." Ling Chen''s eyebrows lifted in a smirk. "I''ve visited the Ancestral Sword Tomb and signed up for the Immortal Sword Rankings. Now, it''s time to fulfill your promise and present the treasures of the Sword Ruins to me."

    "They''ve already been prepared, Exile Ling. Please, this way," Feng Buhui bowed, opening a path.

    Ling Chen''s eyes shone brightly as he gazed outside. "Sword techniques, Sword Intent, they''re just icing on the cake. In this mortal world, the growth of one''s cultivation is the foundation."

    After speaking, he looked down at the nine-colored Sword Soul emerging from his hand, his eyes softening into a tender smile. "My precious, with a legendary sword like you, we should at least top this little Immortal Sword Rankings!¡±

    Then, he added, "Otherwise, I''d be doing you a disservice!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the secluded Mu-Mu Hut, nestled deep in the Valley of Ruins,y a golden pool. This pool, swirling with golden nectar¡ªa concoction of ground-up pills and elixirs¡ªwas thick and fragrant, akin to a golden soup.

    Upon arriving, Red Moon was almost brought to tears by its allure.

    Yun Xiao had initially fancied a dip himself, but the sight of the Sword Warden lounging inside quickly banished the thought. Sharing a bath with an old man? The very idea was a nightmare.

    So, Yun Xiao settled in a nearby pavilion. The Sword Warden, meanwhile, opened his eyes and draped himself in a heavy tinum-colored sword robe. His burly frame, dripping with golden liquid, approached Yun Xiao.

    He didn¡¯t resemble a swordsman so much as a mighty overlord, whereas Yun Xiao was the very image of a Sword Immortal from a painting.

    "I''ve heard Exile Yun shattered a Sword Puppet into exactly a hundred thousand fragments with a single stroke. Not only that, but each fragment was imbued with the essence of Taiji. My swordsmanship pales inparison," the Sword Warden said with a slight smile, pouring Yun Xiao a cup of golden wine. "Please, have a sip. It''s the Golden Springs Wine of the Sword Ruins."

    "You understand the sword," Yun Xiao replied, feeling inwardly pleased that his show of skill was recognized. At least he had made headway with the Sword Warden.

    It was clear enough that Ling Chen''s alignment with the Withered Bone Keeper had put considerable pressure on the Sword Warden. If the Sword Warden was wise, he wouldn¡¯t y games with Yun Xiao.

    "The wine is rich and sweet, with a strong aftertaste, like a burning sword piercing through," Yun Xiaomented after a sip, impressed.

    This wine was indeed remarkable. Yet for Yun Xiao, nothing could surpass the tender allure of Daughter''s Red or the unforgettable potency of Tiger Rod Wine.

    "You have a taste for fine wine, Exile Yun." The Sword Warden chuckled.

    The perk of being an Exiled Sword Immortal was that Yun Xiao didn¡¯t need to use formalities, even in the presence of the ruler of the Eternal Sword Prison. Yun Xiao was acutely aware of just how powerful this fellow was.

    Blue Star had mentioned that this man was nearly five whole realms above Yun Xiao, a proximity that exerted immense pressure even on their ultimate defenses.

    Yun Xiao''s own cultivation was still in the Saint Realms, two realms away from the Dao Heart Realm.

    This meant the Sword Warden had already taken four steps into the Second Dao Tribtion, standing at the forefront in the entire Eternal Sword Prison. He was one of the peak forces in the Nine Hells!

    Had Yun Xiao not been extraordinarily talented, entering as a mere Yellow level disciple of the Sword Ruins, he would never have had the chance to sit face-to-face with such a being. Sometimes, a horrifying talent indeed saved one from a tedious climb up thedder.

    In the Sword Ruins alone, counting the Exiled Sword Immortal, there were nine ranks in the sect hierarchy. And the Sword Warden? He stood at the pinnacle of billions of swords.

    "Good wine needs no ttery." Yun Xiao put down his cup and looked intently at the Sword Warden. "Let''s talk about the core of your conflict with the Withered Bone Keeper."

    "There are two main issues." The Sword Warden was straightforward. After toasting Yun Xiao, he spoke gravely, "First, my master has a granddaughter named Qingzan, about the same age as my daughter Dalong. She had decent potential in her youth but upon marrying into the Cmity Seal Purgatory, she seemed to have encountered some fortune. Her cultivation soared, and now she holds a high position there."

    "Cmity Seal Purgatory?" Yun Xiao admitted he hadn''t heard of it. He only knew of three hells in the Nine Hells! The Endless Netherworld, the Eternal Sword Prison, and the Primeval Demon Hell¡­ Each belonged to the devils, humans, and demons respectively.

    "Yes! They''re the strongest among the Nine Hells, the heritage ground for human Inscription Cultivators. It''s a powerful force, leading the human faction in the Nine Hells," the Sword Warden exined patiently, knowing Yun Xiao hailed from the Divine Continent.

    "Inscription Cultivators?"

    "Have you never seen an Inscription Cultivator, Exile Yun?" the Sword Warden asked, puzzled. He thought Yun Xiao was a reincarnated true Immortal. It was understandable not to know about the Cmity Seal Purgatory, just a ce''s name. But being unaware of Inscription Cultivators seemed a bit ignorant.

    "No!" Yun Xiao replied bluntly.

    "Hmm," the Sword Warden then briefly exined, "Inscription Cultivators, like us Sword Cultivators, practice a specialized cultivation system of the human race. We have Sword Souls naturally in our bones, which integrate into our swords, also called Life Sword Embryos. Inscription Cultivators have Life Dao Sigils naturally in their brains, simply called Life Sigils."

    "A sigil born in the brain? That''s quite peculiar," Yun Xiao said curiously. "What''s the use of these Life Sigils? Are they like our Sword Souls?"

    "Life Sigils have grades, runic seals, and can be enhanced. In principle, they''re simr to Sword Souls. In practice, they tend to specialize more in enchantment. You can use them as a medium for channeling daoist spells. You can also stick them onto things. For example, you can stick them onto a magic treasure to enhance its power.

    "Compared to Sword Souls, Life Sigils have a variety of unique functions, like immobilization, suppression, and more. I can''t list them all at once. You''ll likely encounter Inscription Cultivators in the uing Nine Hells Conquest sh, and then you''ll understand their power better." The Sword Warden spoke of Inscription Cultivators with a serious demeanor.

    "Who do you think are stronger, Sword Cultivators or Inscription Cultivators?" Yun Xiao asked earnestly.

    "Sword Cultivators are strong in attack but weak in defense, while Inscription Cultivators bnce out ordinary cultivators, making them more versatile. Each has its specialties. So, it''s hard to say which is stronger. However, in the history of the Nine Hells, the Cmity Seal Purgatory usually ranks above the Eternal Sword Prison," the Sword Warden exined.

    Yun Xiao understood his meaning! The strength of a system wasn''t absolute, but in the Nine Hells, Inscription Cultivators were generally stronger than Sword Cultivators.

    "Life Sigil?" Yun Xiao gently touched the back of his head. The thought of a sigil sprouting in his brain was rather unnerving. But then he had a thought!

    "The Divine Pir of the Divine Continent resembles a giant sword, eventually bing a Sword Soul, while the Demon Continent is a rectangrndmass, its mountains and rivers twisted like a sigil..."

    Could it be that the Creator Immortal had already nned the next step?

 Chapter 265: Azure Phoenix Tower Welcomes You!

    Chapter 265: Azure Phoenix Tower Wees You!

    Yun Xiao was lost in thought when the Sword Warden continued, "I was just saying how Qingzan changed drastically after marrying into the Cmity Seal Purgatory. My master intended for her to return and take over as the next Sword Warden. But I disagreed, sparking our first conflict."

    "Was the Withered Bone Keeper your predecessor?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes!" The Sword Warden nodded.

    "You seeded him, and now he wants his granddaughter to seed you. Isn''t that illogical?" Yun Xiao queried.

    "Indeed," the Sword Warden replied, gazing deeply at Yun Xiao. "Qingzan has been in the Cmity Seal Purgatory for years, married to its ruler. Her children are all Inscription Cultivators. If she returns to the Sword Ruins, others might see it as a powerful alliance, but I fear it would make us a vassal to them. This wouldn''t bode well for the Sword Cultivators of the Eternal Sword Prison. If a conflict of interest arises, we''ll be the sacrificialmbs."

    "Can''t your master see this problem?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "He''s close to Qingzan, and she''s promised to prioritize the Sword Ruins. So, my master chooses to trust family. But I believe, no matter how much you trust someone, you shouldn''t risk the Sword Ruins. It''s an unnecessary gamble," the Sword Warden earnestly stated.

    "A wise man does not stand under a crumbling wall," Yun Xiao understood his point.

    "My master''s family has long been a prominent household in the Sword Ruins, ustomed to favoritism. If it weren''t for my far superior abilitiespared to his children, I''d never have be the Sword Warden. He''s always felt that my ascension was a debt to his children. So, he desires to bring his granddaughter back to fulfill his wish," the Sword Warden sighed softly.

    "But now, this conflict must be resolved, right?" Yun Xiao paused, "With the rise of the two Exiled Sword Immortals in the Sword Ruins, the Eternal Sword Prison has better sessors. It''s not Qingzan''s turn."

    "True!" The Sword Warden looked at Yun Xiao deeply, then smiled slightly, "However, you''re reincarnated Immortals, destined to ascend. Someone must oversee the Eternal Sword Prison. So, my master won''t give up."

    The conflict remained.

    "And the second conflict?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "This one''s simpler yet more intractable." The Sword Warden took a deep breath, looking towards the direction of the Ancestral Sword Tomb. "My master''s getting old and doesn''t want to die a natural death. Over the years, his temperament has grown more twisted, coveting the Sword Relic."

    "The Sword Relic?" Yun Xiao echoed, curious.

    "This ancient treasure of the Eternal Sword Prison is said to prolong life and regenerate flesh," the Sword Warden exined. "Enshrouded in mystery and legend, it''s rumored to even create flesh from thin air. Resting in the Ancestral Sword Tomb for eons, it''s the reason the remains of our ancestors defy decay even after millennia."

    "Create flesh from thin air?" Yun Xiao paused, his mind wandering to Lady Hua Lian.

    "Merely legends, I believe." The Sword Warden chuckled.

    "I see." Yun Xiao nodded, then turned to the Sword Warden, "So, beneath the Ancestral Sword Tomb, the remains of your ancestors remain intact?"

    "In the Sword Ruins, we call it a perfect rest. Only Sword Wardens are buried there. So, centuries from now, my flesh and bones will still persist in this world... You understand, it''s the perfect full stop for each generation of Sword Wardens, right?" the Sword Warden said.

    "Retiring with honors, leaving a dignified legacy, forever a part of this world. It''s indeed beautiful," Yun Xiao agreed.

    "But my master, lured by the relic''s promise of youth, is like a man possessed, craving to extract it to rejuvenate himself! He fears death to the point of madness, willing to disturb the eternal rest of our ancestors. He wants to be the ck sheep, but I won''t let him," the Sword Warden''s voice grew heavy.

    Yun Xiao could sense the Sword Warden''s headache. Before the two Exiled Sword Immortals appeared, Qingzan and the Sword Relic were irreconcble issues.

    "As death draws near, he grows more desperate," the Sword Warden continued. "He calls me an ingrate, forms cliques to ostracize and nder me. Even his eagerness to bring Qingzan back is ultimately for the Sword Relic." He spread his hands and sighed, "Exile Yun, what can I do when an old man loses his mind? It''s even tougher since I owe him."

    It was a bigger headache because the Sword Warden was his disciple! Clearly, the Withered Bone Keeper was different in his youth.

    "Forming factions? Do the Overseers of the Sword Ruins, like Feng Buihui, Yun Xinghe, and Shuangjiang, not understand the significance of the Sword Relic?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "They do! Those siding with my master eithere from families that have fallen in recent generations or have never had a Sword Warden as an ancestor. They don''t care about the relic. To them, preserving the remains of ancestors pales inparison to the prospect of overthrowing me and elevating their own families... But as of now, even without the relic matter being public, most of the powerful in the Sword Ruins stand with me." The Sword Warden nodded.

    "You mean to say, you could''ve handled the issue of the Withered Bone Keeper. But after the Sword Baptism Ceremony, you felt immense pressure from Ling Chen?" Yun Xiao looked intently at the Sword Warden.

    "Yes!" The Sword Warden nodded gravely. "As soon as Exile Ling confirmed his identity, my master promised to unearth the Sword Relic for him. The moment Exile Ling heard about the Sword Relic, he was on board."

    "He''s giving it to Ling Chen? He''s not using it himself?"

    "The Sword Relic has immense power. A tenth of its effect would be enough for my master to rejuvenate," the Sword Warden said, his eyes glinting coldly. "I refuse to give the Sword Relic to anyone, but my master and his entourage are willing. So, Exile Ling will never be on my side. Standing with my master, if he seeds in his cultivation, he''ll surely overthrow me to seize the key to the tomb of the Sword Relic. So, the emergence of an Exiled Sword Immortal in the Sword Ruins has be my personal nightmare."

    "Just give the key to Ling Chen. He could kick that old fool out in a heartbeat. Your nightmare would turn into good news," Yun Xiao joked.

    The Sword Warden couldn''t help butugh, then sighed deeply, "All my life, I''ve lived with integrity. I don''t want to betray my ancestors in my twilight years. I still hope to lie in peace for 10,000 years, letting future generations behold my remains."

    "It''s because we have lines we won''t cross, principles we uphold, that things get tough. Without such lines, glory and riches woulde easily," Yun Xiao reflected thoughtfully.

    "Indeed" Pouring another drink for Yun Xiao, the Sword Warden smiled, "I thought I was at a dead end, but it seems the heavens dont forsake the persistent. I never expected someone like you toe along."

    Yun Xiao was like a gift from the heavens, affirming his steadfastness.

    The Sword Warden wasn''t afraid of the Withered Bone Keeper or the Overseers of the Sword Ruins, not even of Qingzan and the Cmity Seal Purgatory. But he feared a reincarnated immortal, a child of destiny, the future Ling Chen!

    Ling Chen was the future of the Eternal Sword Prison, and the Sword Warden couldn''t simply dispose of him. If he tried, the entire Eternal Sword Prison would wish for the demise of the Sword Warden.

    The Sword Warden wasn''t alone; he had a n, children, and grandchildren!

    After hearing everything, Yun Xiao had a much clearer understanding of the Sword Warden''s predicament and the entire situation in the Sword Ruins. His rtionship with Ling Chen seemed more transparent now.

    "Two tigers can''t share the same mountain." Blue Star chuckled. "When the territory is limited, only one can reign supreme. How can they not be at odds?"

    "If he wasn''t so frail and emaciated now, he''d be easy prey." Red Moon snickered.

    After all, Ling Chen had just been reborn, and his potential was yet to be fully unearthed.

    Yun Xiao suddenly stood up and faced the Sword Warden, "Since you''ve been so frank, I''ll join you in this game of honesty."

    "What do you mean?" the Sword Warden asked, puzzled.

    "How dense is your Sword Aura?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Though I''m no prodigy, my Sword Aura is at 10,000yers. I''m known as the top swordsman of the Nine Hells," the Sword Warden said with a smile.

    "10,000yers?" Yun Xiao admired, then seriously said, "Let''s not waste time then. Today, I also want a 10,000yer Sword Aura."

    ".." The Sword Warden''s smile vanished, slowly creeping onto Yun Xiao''s face.

    "Besides that, I want Sword Rings, Sword Hearts, Saint Stones, and Immortal Jades all the good stuff. Hand them over," Yun Xiao finished, ncing at the wine jug on the table, "And the stock of this Golden Springs Wine, give me half. No, make it nine-tenths!"

    ".." The Sword Warden was speechless. Exiled Sword Immortals? It was more like two bandits just waltzed in!

    "Don''t worry, at least I''m not after the Sword Relic of your ancestors... Besides, my principle is to do as much work as the payment covers. You nurture me with the treasures of the Sword Ruins, and I''ll put in my efforts for you personally. You won''t be at a loss," Yun Xiao said with a smile, gazing at the Sword Warden.

    The Sword Warden lowered his head, clearly pondering the recent conversation with Mu Daxiong about the Sword Puppet being split into 100,000 fragments, each identical in weight, and marked with the Taiji Sword Art. These were all keys Yun Xiao had calcted to pry open the vast resources of the Sword Ruins. Mu Daxiong''s choice to keep it within the family, not spreading it further, was within Yun Xiao''s expectations. This high-level act of Yun Xiao seemed to be working exceptionally well.

    "Only a talent that defies the heavens can defeat another of its kind!" With a flourish, the Sword Warden stood up, his eyes burning with intensity as he looked at Yun Xiao. "Come with me to the Azure Phoenix Tower. Whether you can achieve 10,000yers of Sword Aura depends on your skills."

    Clouds swirled, and swords soared in the sky! Atop a lofty peak stood an imposing azure tower, rising like a sharp sword piercing the heavens.

    This was the Azure Phoenix Tower, one of the liveliest ces in the Sword Ruins. Shrouded in mystic fog, the tower was adorned with numerous monstrous sculptures, and its spires were hung with azure bells that chimed eerily in the fierce wind.

    Inside the tower, it seemed as if a thousand demons roared, their voices chilling.

    At that moment, several figures appeared before the Azure Phoenix Tower, instantly drawing cheers and shouts.

    "All hail Exile Ling!"

 Chapter 266: Azure Phoenix Demon Empress

    Chapter 266: Azure Phoenix Demon Empress

    "Azure Phoenix?" Yun Xiao, soaring above the snowy sea of clouds, could barely make out a towering azure spire in the distance. Unsurprisingly, this had to be the Azure Phoenix Towera ce where disciples of the Sword Ruins honed their skills by absorbing demon bones to enhance their Sword Aura.

    The word Azure Phoenix sparked Yun Xiao''s curiosity, reminding him of the Azure Kites in the Sea of Swords. "Are they not one and the same?" he wondered aloud.

    "Excuse me, Sword Warden, what exactly is an Azure Phoenix?" Yun Xiao asked.

    After showing such ack of knowledge, anyone else might doubt Yun Xiao''s reincarnation as a true Immortal. But the Sword Warden, aware of his performance in the Sword Puppet Forest, didn''t fuss over it. After all, whether he was a true Immortal or not, that wasn''t what mattered. It was his heaven-defying talent that counted.

    "An Azure Phoenix is a type of artificial lifeform." the Sword Warden began, "It''s a blend of demon marrow, demon souls, spiritual nts, and magic seals. Compared to directly absorbing demon bones, it''s more effective and has a longer shelf life."

    Inyman''s terms, it was a refined product from demon bones. After all, demon bones were parts of corpses. Their potency would wane over time despite beingden with demonic power. That was why ces like the Three Great Sword Tombs and Sword Ruins opted to transform them into Azure Kites or Azure Phoenixes, maximizing their potential.

    The name might have changed, but the concept remained the same. An Azure Phoenix fundamentally wasn''t any different from an Azure Kite.

    "Whether it''s demon bones or an Azure Phoenix, if your Sword Soul isn''t formidable enough, it''ll be a tough task to forcibly absorb higher ranks of Azure Phoenixes, especially for someone at the Saint Realm like you," the Sword Warden exined.

    This was what the Sword Warden meant earlier. Whether Yun Xiao could forge a 10,000yer Sword Aura depended entirely on his own capability. Normally, a Sword Soul at the Saint Realm, struggling to subdue the powerful demonic essence in the bones, would do well to maintain even 1,000yers.

    Typically, Sword Judges and those at the Dao Heart Realm, like Gu Baiyi, would have about a 1,000yer Sword Soul. The True Disciples and elites at the Awakened Emperor Realm might reach this level too.

    "How many ranks of Azure Phoenixes are there?" Yun Xiao asked, gazing towards the azure tower in the clouds.

    "There are four levels in the Azure Phoenix Tower," the Sword Warden replied sinctly. "From bottom to top, they hold Rank 1, 3, 6, and 10 Azure Phoenixes respectively."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao mused.

    From this way of categorization, it seemed clear that the Sword Cultivators of the Sword Ruins and the Divine Continent shared a lineage. It hinted that the inhabitants of the Divine Continent shared origins with the Nine Hells, or perhaps even splintered from it.

    "Sword Warden, then may I head straight to the fourth level?" Yun Xiao asked directly.

    "The fourth level?" The Sword Warden was taken aback. Even he had to regard Yun Xiao with awe, his heart unable to settle for a long while. With a hint of jest, he said, "Ah, the luxury of being an Exiled Sword Immortal. Ordinary disciples of the Sword Ruins serve the sect, earning Sword Merits through missions and rewards, which they exchange for a chance to absorb an Azure Phoenix in the tower. Most never even dream of reaching the second level in their lifetime."

    "Everyone has their own path. Why wouldn''t I soar straight to the top? Taking it step by step would only slow down the pace!" Yun Xiaoughed, adding with a twinkle in his eye. "Sword Warden, hit me with the strongest you''ve got. I can handle it."

    The Sword Warden smiled, then responded, "Very well, let''s see what you''ve got."

    Their conversation ended there. At their level, they could already hear the bustling crowds at the Azure Phoenix Tower.

    Gazing at the towering phoenix-shaped spire, the Sword Warden mused, "Do you know why it''s called an Azure Phoenix and shaped like a phoenix?"

    "I''m all ears," said Yun Xiao.

    "We''ve been at odds with demons, especially the ancient Primeval Demon Hell. The strongest of them has always been the Azure Phoenix lineage. These Azure Phoenixes have caused endless suffering to us Sword Cultivators, including the current Phoenix Empress, a heaven defying demon. We despise them so much that we made specimens out of their kind, repeatedly stabbing them!" The Sword Warden chuckled.

    "A bit childish, isn''t it?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but smile wryly. He never imagined that the Azure Kite Sea might have something to do with this Azure Phoenix Demon Empress.

    "Childish, maybe, but oh so satisfying," The Sword Wardenughed heartily. Indeed, the collective will of Sword Cultivators was simple, direct, rough, and unbound.

    "Phoenix Empress?" Yun Xiao mused to himself. After seizing the Demon Continent, he was already nning to take Moon Fairy to the Primeval Demon Hell to grow stronger. Staying as the top Demon Emperor in the Demon Continent would only limit his potential.

    "If I may ask, do the Sword Ruins have Deste Essence?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Of course, we need it for creating formations and Sword Puppets..." The Sword Warden stopped mid-sentence, realizing something. He turned to Yun Xiao in shock, "Hold on, you''re not nning on taking the Deste Essence too, are you?"

    The Sword Warden was visibly shaken by the enormity of Yun Xiao''s appetite.

    "Let''s take it one step at a time. I''ll focus on what''s in front of me," Yun Xiao said, leaving the Sword Warden feeling a mix of heartache and dread.

    With the emergence of two Exiled Sword Immortals, the Eternal Sword Prison was abuzz, overshadowing the other eight hells. The entire Nine Hells were in turmoil, with undercurrents shifting thendscape.

    The Sword Ruins had been thrust into the limelight!

    "To withstand such a tempest, the only way to keep a miraculous talent like an Exiled Sword Immortal alive without crippling our own strength is to quickly convert his talent intobat power. That''s the key!"

    The Sword Warden felt a connection with Yun Xiao, which was why he was currently doing his best to cooperate with him.

    "However, having one Exiled Sword Immortal is manageable for the Sword Ruins, but two, especially with apetitive rtionship,plicates things..."

    The benefits of two Exiled Sword Immortals was unexpectedly less than onea development the Sword Warden hadn''t anticipated.

    When Ling Chen emerged, the Sword Warden was initially overjoyed, but his joy turned to deep concern when the Withered Bone Keeper offered Ling Chen the Sword Relic. It was this turn of events that left the Warden with no choice but to ce his bets on Yun Xiao.

    Suddenly, two radiant swords descended from the sky,nding in front of Azure Phoenix Tower. The Sword Warden''s Sword Soul was something extraordinary, so much so that Yun Xiao couldn''t even see it. It was like the Sword Warden was treading on air. Yet, he could sense the presence of the Sword Soul. The difference between the truly strong and the talented was evident here...

    "Sword Warden, Exile Yun!" Their arrival instantly caused an even bigger stir at the already noisy Azure Phoenix Tower. It had been at least twenty years since the Sword Wardenst appeared here.

    "Is the Sword Warden personally escorting Exile Yun to absorb Azure Phoenixes?"

    Around the Azure Phoenix Tower, thousands of disciples gathered, exchanging nces and stirring with spection. The story of Yun Xiao''s <em>outburst</em> in the Sword Puppet Forest and his subsequent ruthless killing of the renowned beauty Feng Ruolin had just begun to spread. Fueled by those with ulterior motives, it sparked condemnation among the fervent disciples.

    Yun Xiao''s reputation in the Sword Ruins was already in tatters, overshadowed by that of Ling Chen. Despite the Sword Warden''s personal escort, the nces from the disciples were cold and distant, tinged with disgust and fear. Disgust for his brutality. Fear of his supreme status.

    "We''re looking at him like this, but what if he decides to kill us all on a whim?"

    "I heard Feng Ruolin was beheaded just for not smiling at him."

    Such a tyrant, blessed with talent, was someone everyone instinctively bowed their heads to in fear.

    Yun Xiao understood that the Sword Warden''s decision to withhold the details of the Sword Puppet Forest incident would lead to this oue.

    "In this world, power dictates perception. If you''re strong, people praise your decisiveness; if you''re weak, they condemn you as brutal and merciless." Yun Xiao had seen through this long ago. He no longer cared for the judgmental gazes of the world. His focus was solely on his sword, the Azure Phoenix Tower before him, and the path to the heavens it represented.

    Regardless, the arrival of both the Sword Warden and Yun Xiaopelled nearly all Sword Cultivators to bow in greeting. However, there was one exception.

    Sitting in front of the Azure Phoenix Tower was a gaunt, bald, ck-robed elder, resembling the Withered Bone Keeper in demeanor, yet slightly younger. As the Sword Warden approached, the elder, named Ku Xuan, remained seated, eyes closed, immovable like a statue.

    "Junior Brother Xuan, it must be tough guarding the Azure Phoenix Tower," the Sword Warden said casually upon approaching.

    "It''s the Sword Warden who truly bears the burden, managing the Eternal Sword Prison and all its affairs. My role here is just a leisurely one, merely a retirement," Ku Xuan replied in a deep voice.

    The Warden smiled briefly, choosing not to engage.

    Yun Xiao could guess this man''s identity. Likely the son of the Withered Bone Keeper and a failed contender for the Sword Warden''s position, possibly even the father of Qingzan. Contrasting with Ku Xuan''s gaunt, somber appearance, the Sword Warden''s robust and imposing presence indeed seemed more fitting for the ruler of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    "Sword Warden, Exile Yun" Just past Ku Xuan and stepping into the Azure Phoenix Tower, Yun Xiao spotted two familiar figures: Bai Wuque and his mother, Bai Qingxue.

    "Yun Xiao, you''ve saved a monster!" Bai Wuque, looking pale and distraught, clearly had endured great trauma. Therge sword casket on his back, signifying his status as a sword ve, spoke volumes. Only an Exiled Sword Immortal could have the power to make a Supreme Disciple his ve.

    "Silence! How dare you address Exile Yun by name!" A few elders, loyal to the Sword Warden, red at Bai Wuque.

    "Wuque" Bai Qingxue, terrified, quickly covered her son''s mouth.

    But Bai Wuque was already broken, pointing at Yun Xiao and crying out in despair, "It''s all your fault! Do you realize now how terrifying he is? What''s the point of your little outburst in the Sword Puppet Forest?"

    As he finished speaking, Bai Wuque copsed to the ground, weeping. The surrounding crowd looked on with indifferent eyes. To them, Bai Wuque was nothing more than a pitiful backdrop to the soaring Ling Chen, a mere small-time viin.

    The reason for Bai Wuque''s breakdown was rumored to involve his mother, Bai Qingxue. But these whispers only seemed to add to Ling Chen''s reputation as a man who relished revenge.

    Suddenly, under the icy stares of the onlookers, Bai Qingxue, trembling and tearful, fell to her knees. "Sword Warden, Exile Ling has been tormenting my son and me, using the Bai Family as leverage. Can you please help us..." she begged, her head hitting the ground as she kowtowed. Her boldness in voicing this plea indicated her desperation and decision to risk everything.

    The Azure Phoenix Tower fell into a stunned silence.

    The Sword Warden gave Bai Qingxue a calm nce, then turned to Yun Xiao. "Exile Yun, please proceed upstairs."

    The two of them headed directly to the fourth level.

    Bai Qingxue also copsed, despairing.

    "What a foolish dream. Offending Exile Ling means no one in this world can save you now!"

    "Bai Wuque, being Exile Ling''s stepson is an honor for you!"

    Rumors had spread that Ling Chen was not discreet about his preferences in public, even starting to <em>select</em> concubines in the Sword Ruins.

    "Exile Ling has a fascinating temperament. Offend him, and he''ll have a go at your momboth figuratively and literally!"

    "That''s called being true to oneself!"

    "Bai Qingxue, do you know how many young women in the Eternal Sword Prison envy you? They''re green with jealousy!"

    The crowdughed.

    "Exile Ling has just ascended to the fourth level, and Exile Yun followed. Let''s go see what happens next."

    "Some people really have thick skins. After being humiliated once, theye back for more. I wonder who he''ll kill on the spot this time in a fit of rage?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Exile Ling has a fascinating temperament. Offend him, and he''ll have a go at your momboth figuratively and literally!"</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 267: Lil Birdies, Come Here!

    Chapter 267: Lil Birdies, Come Here!

    At the fourth level of the Azure Phoenix Tower, even here, the space stretched boundlessly, vast and open.

    Thick, dark mist, dense with demonic miasma, shrouded this level. Within the mist, massive azure shadows darted back and forth, their piercing cries echoing continuously. These shadows, emzoned with runic formations and dazzling in their brilliance, were as fierce and proud as living creatures, striking against the inner walls of the tower like birds trapped in a cage.

    At the entrance to this level, an ind floated in the void, already crowded with a thousand onlookers. These were no ordinary folks; only disciples of the Peak Masters were worthy of observing the fourth level.

    Three Sword Ruins Overseers, Feng, Yun, and Shuang, stood at the forefront, vigntly guarding Exile Ling, allowing no errors.

    "A Rank 10 Azure Phoenix!" a girl in blue eximed, her gaze fixed on a purple-robed figure in the midst of the ck mist. Admiration was written all over her pretty face. She wore a delicate blue flower in her hair, adding to her tender charm.

    "This is Exile Ling''s first visit, and in just a half moment, he has absorbed a Rank 10 Azure Phoenix. Such a feat will be recorded in the annals of the Sword Ruins, unmatched by any whoe after," a young boy beside her remarked. Bald but with delicate and handsome features, he resembled a piece of pure, uncut jade, both beautiful and slightly otherworldly.

    "Indeed. In the history of our young disciples, only a Heavenly Sun Child managed to absorb a Rank 6 Azure Phoenix before he turned eighteen, and that took him a whole month," the girl said dreamily, her eyes locked on the young man.

    "Sikong Yan, I heard you once encountered Exile Ling when he was still a sword ve and even helped him once?" the bald boy asked with a smile.

    "It was just a small favor, but Exile Ling told me he remembers it well," Sikong Yan replied, her cheeks coloring slightly.

    "Hold on to that memory; you might just be his chosen one," the boy said, his smile widening.

    "Ku Xin, don''t jump to conclusions... Exile Ling was just being polite to me..." Sikong Yan mused, her heart fluttering like a startled fawn as she recalled the young man''s intense gaze.

    She vividly remembered their first encounter. Back then, she was oblivious to the fact that he was Ling Chen, the sword ve. She had casually scolded some bullies, inadvertently rescuing him from their clutches. To him, she was an ethereal fairy, high and mighty, the granddaughter of a Sword Ruins Overseer.

    But how the tables had turned! The disregarded has risen to glory. Now, even the fairy had to lower her proud head, her cheeks burning with a mix of embarrassment and something deeper.

    Sikong Yan and Ku Xin, the young man beside her, were both top-tier Sword Cultivators of the Eternal Sword Prison, ranked within the top twenty in thest Immortal Sword Rankings. This time, their rankings were poised to climb even higher.

    Ku Xin was the grandson of Ku Xuan, the guardian of the Azure Phoenix Tower, and the great-grandson of the Withered Bone Keeper. Qingzan, his aunt, was a figure of renown in the Cmity Seal Purgatory.

    "There are only eleven Rank 10 Azure Phoenixs in the Azure Phoenix Tower. With one absorbed, only ten remain. I wonder if Exile Ling will continue?" Sikong Yan said, her beautiful eyes filled with tension.

    Typically, those who managed to absorb a Rank 10 Azure Phoenix were celebrated Overseers of the Sword Ruins. Even they had to exchange great deeds for a chance at a Rank 10 Azure Phoenix, and even then, one was their limit. But Ling Chen needed no such exchanges. His status broke all norms.

    "He''s continuing!" Ku Xin eximed, admiration evident in his voice. As a prodigy of the Withered Bone Keeper''s lineage, he rarely admired anyone. But Ling Chen had earned his genuine respect.

    "The primaryponents of an Azure Phoenix are the demon bones of a Hell Demon. The Hell Demons of the Primeval Demon Hell are as powerful as the top ten strongest Overseers of our Sword Ruins. They''re two realms higher than us at the Dao Heart Realm, and four above Exile Ling. The fact that he managed to subdue a Rank 10 Azure Phoenix in mere moments proves his true might as a reincarnated true Immortal!" Ku Xin observed, his face calm but his heart thunderstruck with awe.

    When Exile Ling had captured that Rank 10 Azure Phoenix, the uproar it caused was immense, audible even from the first level of the Azure Phoenix Tower.

    The spectacle on the fourth level of the Azure Phoenix Tower had drawn a crowd, swelling to at least two thousand onlookers in no time.

    "A true Immortal indeed, unlike another pretender..." Sikong Yan mused, but her words were cut short by a rustling noise from behind.

    "The Sword Warden and Exile Yun, have arrived, make way!" someone whispered urgently.

    Ku Xin and Sikong Yan, along with Feng Buihui and the other Overseers at the front, exchanged perplexed nces and stepped aside.

    "A true Immortal achieves miraculous feats, while the pretender only brings shame upon himself," Ku Xin remarked, shaking his head.

    "Wherever Exile Ling goes, he follows, like a persistent parasite, a shadow that never fades," Sikong Yan said in a hushed tone.

    Even they, having learned from Feng Ruolin''s lesson, dared only to whisper among themselves. Feng Ruolin, three years their junior and a good friend of Sikong Yan, was regarded as a sister.

    Amidst the focused attention of the crowd, Yun Xiao arrived at the forefront with an air of calm, apanied by the Sword Warden. Thousands watched their retreating backs, their gazes filled with a curious mix of awe and unease.

    Even Feng Buhui and the other two Overseers bowed respectfully to Yun Xiao, not daring to utter a word out of turn. The demise of Feng Ruolin had served as a stern warning to all Sword Cultivators of the Sword Ruins: none dared speak out of line in Yun Xiao''s presence.

    "Shall we?" the Sword Warden asked, raising an eyebrow. He was present this time, keen to witness firsthand. Ling Chen had set a record, capturing a Rank 10 Azure Phoenix in just a quarter of an hour. What about you?

    "Can''t wait," Yun Xiao replied, taking another step forward. He stood atop the floating ind, not venturing into the ck mist. Every eye was on him,paring his still figure to Exile Ling in the depths, who was currently subduing a Rank 10 Azure Phoenix.

    Yun Xiao paid little heed to the surrounding gazes. To him, the thoughts of the onlookers seemed increasingly absurd. He wasnt there to intimidate anyone; his sole desire was to im an Azure Phoenix for himself.

    With a metallic ring, his gaze deep and distant, as cold and vast as the night sky, he exuded the aura of the Creator Immortal. His Heaven Burial Sword Soul transformed into a three-foot-long azure de, held before his eyes.

    "Little birds,e here yourselves," Yun Xiao whispered, twirling his sword. The entire fourth level of Azure Phoenix Tower seemed to tremble at hismand. Then, a series of piercing screeches filled the air as the Rank 10 Azure Phoenixes, one after another, hurled themselves towards the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "Uh?" Ling Chen, in the midst of thrusting his sword into another Rank 10 Azure Phoenix, paused as his target nced disdainfully at him. With a p of its enormous wings, the Azure Phoenix conjured a whirlwind of azure mes, diving towards a familiar figure on the floating ind.

    "Where did it go?" Ling Chen frowned, turning abruptly. To his astonishment, the remaining ten Rank 10 Azure Phoenixes, like ferocious demons, were all converging on Yun Xiao.

    "It''s him again!" Ling Chen''s body jolted with realization, his expression twisting into a mix of bewilderment and intrigue. What in the world was happening? Snatching food from the tiger''s mouth was always a daring feat, and he was far more formidable than any tiger.

    "A sudden change in the Azure Phoenixes?" echoed the gasps from over two thousand onlookers atop the floating ind. Some of the less experienced disciples hastily retreated, overwhelmed by the unfolding drama.

    Above them, ten colossal Azure Phoenixes, each with wings spanning a hundred meters and engulfed in fiery fury, swooped down, their presence so immense it was like night had fallen. Their intense heat scorched the onlookers, and their ferocious aura sent several disciples scrambling away in terror.

    Why had these Rank 10 Azure Phoenixes suddenly undergone such a bizarre transformation?

    As the crowd watched in stunned silence, struggling toprehend the situation, the leading Azure Phoenix dove straight towards a young man in white standing calmly below.

    "Exile Yun?!"

    In a sh, the young man in white lightly raised his sword, pointing it at the diving Azure Phoenix.

    With a buzz, the Azure Phoenix collided with Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul. In an instant, feathers and bones transformed into over 2,000yers of Sword Aura, swirling tumultuously around the sword.

    This spectacle plunged the entire ind into a profound silence.

    Even Sword Ruins Overseers like Feng Buhui were left wide-eyed, disbelieving what they had just witnessed.

    "Damn," the Sword Warden muttered under his breath.

    "A Rank 10 Azure Phoenix, absorbed just like that?" Sikong Yan''s beautiful eyes trembled with disbelief, turning to Ku Xin. "Am I seeing things?" Before she could get an answer, the remaining nine Azure Phoenixes, as if queued up, plummeted one after another into the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    Nine sessive explosions of feathers and bones resounded across the ind.

    After the ninth explosion, the entire fourth level of the Azure Phoenix Tower was shrouded in darkness, as if the whole world had plunged into an abyss. The only source of light was an azure longsword, its brilliance piercing the gloom. A total of 10,001yers of Sword Aura roared and surged around it, creating a tempestuous sea of sword energy that churned and crashed upon the Sword Soul.

    Initially, the fourth level boasted eleven Rank 10 Azure Phoenixes, each crafted from the bones of top powerhouses of the Primeval Demon Hell. Ling Chen''s capture of one had sent shockwaves through the Sword Ruins. But Yun Xiao? He devoured the remaining ten in an instant, even snatching one right out of Ling Chen''s grasp...

    "Damn, damn, damn..." the Sword Warden muttered, his repeated curses reflecting his disbelief. Even with his vast experience, he stood gaping at the young man in white, utterly dumbfounded.

    His reaction mirrored that of the other Sword Cultivators, all of whom seemed to have their brains short-circuit. Even given a quarter of an hour, they couldn''t wrap their heads around what had just happened.

    "Ku Xin!" Sikong Yan suddenly grabbed the bald young man''s hand in panic.

    "Don''t ask me; I think I saw it wrong too..." Ku Xin grumbled, his voice tinged with irritation.

    Sikong Yan realized that it was improbable for two people to be mistaken, especially when every onlooker wore a simr expression of disbelief.

    "An illusion?" she wondered aloud.

    "With all ten Azure Phoenixes gone, where''s the illusion?" Ku Xin retorted.

    "..." Sikong Yan fell silent.

    Amidst the silence, Ling Chen floated out from the depths of the mist, his deep eyes fixated on Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "Brother Yun''s Sword Soul is no ordinary weapon," Ling Chen remarked with a forced smile, taking a deep breath.

    "It''s alright, just a bit too big of an appetite," Yun Xiao replied, his eyes burning with fervor as he slowly retracted the Sword Soul, wincing as it merged back into his body.

    "An appetite is a blessing." Ling Chen chuckled dryly. "Seems I''m outdone on this trip to Azure Phoenix Tower."

    <em>So, you think you won the Sword Puppet Forest, huh? </em>Yun Xiao wanted tough, but he held himself back. He was in a hurry to move on to the next ce and said to Ling Chen, "My Sword Aura has reached the peak of the Sword Ruins. It should be enough for now. If Brother Ling still needs more, the third level awaits you. I must take my leave."

    "Please," Ling Chen responded.

    The Sword Warden smiled faintly at this exchange, departing with Yun Xiao.

    Finally, Yun Xiao walked ahead, leaving behind a thousand silent onlookers.

    Finally, Sikong Yan murmured to herself, "So, a Sword Soul with a lot ofyers of Sword Aura doesn''t mean much, right...? RIGHT!? So what if it''s got a big appetite"

 Chapter 268: Understand the Heart, Pursue the Dao!

    Chapter 268: Understand the Heart, Pursue the Dao!

    With a resigned sigh, Ku Xin nced at Sikong Yan and offered a word of caution, "Admiring someone is fine, Yan, but don''t get carried away with your infatuation. Think back on the 10,000-year history of the Eternal Sword Prison. Has there ever been a tale of a young disciple swallowing ten Rank 10 Azure Phoenixes in the blink of an eye? That''s nothing short of a miracle. At the very least, it shows his Sword Soul surpasses that of Exile Ling."

    "Alright then." Sikong Yan, though conceding to the truth, couldn''t help feeling a bit miffed. "A person''s talent has many facets. Sword Soul and Sword Aura are just parts of it. Excelling in these doesn''t tell the whole story."

    "You''re right there," Ku Xin agreed, nodding.

    Yun Xiao and the Sword Warden left without much ado, leaving Ling Chen in the spotlight, which was somewhat awkward. But he was no ordinary fellow; an old monster like him adapted easily to such situations. He sauntered towards the third level of the Azure Phoenix Tower as if nothing had happened.

    The effectiveness of a Rank 6 Azure Phoenix, though not as great as a Rank 10, could still be stacked up to umte a high-level Sword Aura.

    After all, for Sword Cultivators like an Exiled Sword Immortal, there were no limits to resources! The others could only watch in envy and awe as these two <em>monsters</em> swept through the upper levels of the tower, clearing out all the Azure Phoenixes.

    They couldn''t even be jealous, for these Azure Phoenixes, ced before these younger disciples, were beyond their reach. Even the top ten on the Immortal Sword Rankings would struggle to challenge a Rank 3 Azure Phoenix at their age.

    After all, the Azure Phoenixes of the Sword Ruins were a whole different ball gamepared to the Azure Kites of the Sea of Swords.

    In the end, Ling Chen, through sheer numbers, managed to boost his Sword Aura to 8,000yers! He stopped there, not because he wanted to, but because he hadpletely cleared out all the Rank 6 Azure Phoenixes...

    As for the Rank 3 ones, they weren''t as effective or efficient. So, Ling Chen didn''t bother.

    This brought a collective sigh of relief to the hundreds of thousands of junior disciples in the Sword Ruins.

    After the two Exiled Sword Immortals had swept through the floors, it was fortunate that only the older generations of the Swords Ruins would mainly be impacted. And the older generation could simply replenish the Azure Phoenixes by ying more demons!

    "An 8,000yer Sword Aura, almost as good as 10,000. Both are still astronomical figures unattainable by ordinary juniors."

    "Indeed!"

    "So, in this round, both Exiled Sword Immortals managed a tie, wouldn''t you say?"

    "Seems like it!"

    After Ling Chen''s departure, various whispers and murmurs buzzed around the Azure Phoenix Tower, like flies around one''s ears.

    "Did you hear their chatter?"

    Atop the Azure Phoenix Tower stood two men, overlooking the scene below. Two bald heads were all you could see! An old man and a young boy. The youth was Ku Xin! Before the appearances of the two Exiled Sword Immortals, Ku Xin was a shining star among the young talents of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    And the old man? He was an Overseer of the Sword Ruins, Ku Xuan, who was stationed at the Azure Phoenix Tower to suppress the demonic aura of the Azure Phoenixes.

    "Grandpa, people elevate Exile Ling and put down Exile Yun, making up excuses for the former. It''s all because of preconceived notions. Exile Yun might have made the Eternal Sword hum 100,000 times, but it seemed hollow, as if he was just artificially elevated by the Sword Warden. Plus, he didn''t renounce his privileges, lost first in the Sword Puppet Forest, and even killed someone in a fit of rage. He ruined his reputation from the get-go. One wrong step and, in people''s eyes, everything he does is wrong," Ku Xin analyzed thoughtfully.

    "You''re mistaken," Ku Xuan replied, his voice raspy like wood scraping, gazing into the smoky mountains and rivers of the Sword Ruins. "True, these events did happen. But the key is how we spun them, how we exaggerated his misdeeds to those ignorant of the details. If they never saw it for themselves, they''ll inevitably be swayed by public opinion, trapped in the propaganda machine we created."

    "I don''t understand," the boy confessed, puzzled.

    "Simply put, we exploit people''s unchecked anger and goodwill, skillfully manipting their desire to be moral exemrs. Take the case of Feng Ruolin. We didnt publicize how she mocked Yun Xiao, but how she just didn''t smile at him and was brutally killed for it. That ignites a <em>righteous fury</em> that overwhelms their logic, preventing them from seeking the truth. Even if someone tells them the truth, no one will believe it. They''ll even suspect the Sword Warden of doing a cover-up, fabricating lies to protect Yun Xiao," Ku Xuan said, his lips curling into a cold smile.

    "But Grandpa, does public opinion about the two Exiled Sword Immortals really matter? Even if millions of people talk about Yun Xiao, it won''t change anything. Honestly, I used to look down on him too. I thought he was a fake. But after today''s events at the Azure Phoenix Tower, it feels like nobody can stop his rise," Ku Xin admitted, still confused.

    "It matters. It matters a lot! Because all these small rumors add up to public sentiment. Now, we can''t easily tarnish Yun Xiao''s talent. So, we''ll viciously attack his character, his morality. Make everyone in the Eternal Sword Prison despise him!" Ku Xuan opened his narrow eyes, filled with resentment. "If his character is deemed vile, and he identally dies on his path to growth, no one will object, no one will seek justice! Even the Sword Warden can''t stop public sentiment," he continued coldly.

    "You''re right, Grandpa," Ku Xin nodded in understanding. "In the end, whether it''s Exile Yun or Exile Ling, they''re just geniuses, not yet powerful figures who control the winds and clouds. It''smon for geniuses to meet untimely ends. The difference between infamy and glory is that if Exile Ling dies, the perpetrator will be universally condemned. But if Exile Yun dies, people might just cheer, right?"

    "Exactly. That''s the power of controlling public sentiment," Ku Xuan said, pleased with his grandson''s insight. "A Sword Cultivator can''t just cultivate the sword; they must also master the art of maniption. In this, the Mu Family, as neers,ck the depth of our Ku Family, and can''t outy us."

    Ku Xin furrowed his brow, "But I still have a question..." he said, looking down.

    "Speak," Ku Xuan urged, turning to him.

    "Why must we target Exile Yun? Isn''t it better to have two great talents in the Eternal Sword Prison?" Ku Xin asked earnestly.

    "No, it''s terrible!" Ku Xuan dered.

    "Why so?"

    "The Mu Family also has an Exiled Sword Immortal. So, how can our Ku family rise to prominence? Didn''t you see what those two did to the Azure Phoenix Tower today? If they both grow powerful, what stake will our Ku Family have in the Sword Relic? Your great-grandfather and I won''t live much longer, and I don''t want to die either..." Ku Xuan gritted his teeth, his face twisted with loathing.

    "Life and death are decreed by fate..."

    "I seek to defy fate! The first to receive the Sword Relic in ancient times was our ancestor. It rightfully belongs to our n. Why shouldn''t it benefit our descendants?" Ku Xuan said sternly.

    "Yes!" Ku Xin nodded.

    "Having one Exiled Sword Immortal is a joy; two is a disaster! One must die! Our Ku Family has already sided with Exile Ling. We must go all out! Even if Ling Chen cares about his reputation and wants to keep things above board, from our standpoint, we musty the groundwork for Yun Xiao''s demise," Ku Xuan said darkly.

    "I understand! To kill a peak figure, you must first destroy his reputation," Ku Xin mused, then asked, "But his impressive performance today at the Azure Phoenix Tower will surely boost his fame. What do we do about that?" Ku Xin knew that Ling Chen wasn''t entirely noble and righteous; it was their Ku Family that had spun the tale of Bai Qingxue''s incident as youthful temperament.

    "Rise in fame? Dream on. I have a n that will plunge his reputation into the abyss. Make everyone despise him," Ku Xuan sneered.

    "Oh?" Ku Xin looked at his grandfather.

    "Ever heard of a Fiendish Sword Soul?" Ku Xuan grinned, his smile sinister.

    "I have..." Ku Xin shuddered at those words.

    "Then, tell me what you know," Ku Xuanmanded.

    "Yes." Ku Xin''s eyes flickered darkly, "It''s said that if a female Sword Cultivator is vited by a demon while pregnant, there''s a chance the child''s Sword Soul will be tainted with demonic miasma, bing a Fiendish Sword Soul, which has a unique attribute..."

    "And what is that unique attribute?!" Ku Xuan chuckled darkly.

    "When a Fiendish Sword Soul absorbs an Azure Phoenix, its demonic aura makes the Azure Phoenix more receptive, allowing for rapid absorption, far surpassing that of ordinary people," Ku Xin said, stunned.

    "Considering what you saw today, doesn''t Yun Xiao... resemble a demon spawn?" Ku Xuan asked coldly.

    Owners of a Fiendish Sword Soul, though fathered by men, were often born after their mothers were vited by demons. These individuals were hardly epted by society, scorned as demon spawn. Though gifted in absorbing demon bones, their lives were usually filled with misery.

    "Yes!" Ku Xin nodded deeply, "But... I don''t think Yun Xiao looks like a demon spawn. Most of their Sword Souls don''t even reach grade."

    "He certainly isn''t!" Ku Xuan chuckled maliciously. "But as I said earlier, whether it''s true or not doesn''t matter. What''s important is the rumor mills! We don''t have to get our hands dirty, just a little nudge, and his shining moment at the Azure Phoenix Tower bes everyone''s nightmare."

    Ku Xin couldn''t help but admire the strategy. Brutal, indiscriminate killer, ominous demon spawn. Once thesebels were attached, they would be nearly impossible to refute.

    "And, you don''t know yet another deadly w of the Fiendish Sword Soul," Ku Xuan chuckled again.

    "Please enlighten me, Grandpa!"

    "The Fiendish Sword Soul, being an entity of excessive absorption, is impure and extremely unstable. Usually, by the age of twenty, it explodes," Ku Xuan said with glee.

    "Will his explode?" Ku Xin asked.

    "Whether his Sword Soul explodes or not is irrelevant. As long as people believe it might, we can spread rumors that he''s wasting the Rank 10 Azure Phoenixes. Pin the sin of squandering precious resources on him. Make every Sword Cultivator in the Eternal Sword Prison hate him even more!" Ku Xuan said coldly.

    Ku Xin was speechless...

    "Even better, if he identally dies one day, we''ll just say he died from the self-explosion of his Fiendish Sword Soul. We''ve even figured out his cause of death."

    Ku Xin could only think this scheme was incredibly ruthless. Listening to this, he realized one truth. No matter how talented a genius was, they would never soar unchallenged above the clouds.

    Even an Exiled Sword Immortal couldn''t escape theplexities of human hearts. Once core interests were threatened, who wouldn''t go all out? A genius, after all, was not the same as a true powerhouse, unable to trulymand respect and fear from all!

    "Grandfather, have you already started spreading rumors about him possessing a Fiendish Sword Soul?" Ku Xin asked.

    "Just walk around and listen to the public''s discussions," Ku Xuanughed heartily.

    "Impressive!" Despite the Ku Family''s recent decline, Ku Xin knew their years of maneuvering in the Sword Ruins and theirwork in the shadows still surpassed that of the Sword Warden.

    "Right," Ku Xuan patted his shoulder, advising, "About the Fiendish Sword Soul, remember it''s a spontaneous spection by the public. Don''t let Exile Ling know we''re behind it."

    "Understood!" Ku Xin nodded solemnly. "In the path of cultivation, first understand the heart, then pursue the dao! Exile Yun, you''ve lived a sheltered life high above the clouds. No matter how great your talent is, you''re blind to the darkness of those living below."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 271: The Art of Killing and Silencing!

    Chapter 271: The Art of Killing and Silencing!

    Ling Chen knew they were eager to see his next move, so he didn''t keep them in suspense. With a flourish, he began embedding one terrifyingly powerful demonic Sword Ring after another into his Sword Soul.

    And just like that, five Sword Rings were in ce! His nine-colored Sword Soul, already bristling with 8,000yers of Sword Auras, turned even more formidable.

    The Overseers of the Sword Ruins were on the edge of their seats.

    Then with a clear snap, the sixth Sword Ring clicked into ce!

    Ku Xuan exchanged a look of deep respect with the others, and then they all turned their attention to the final Sword Ring. The difference between six and seven was monumental!

    At this moment, Ling Chen, with a smile ying on his lips, picked up thest Blood Crystal Sword Ring and gently secured it onto his Sword Soul.

    "The seventh Sword Ring!" Ku Xuan, Zhang Mu, Feng Buhui, and the other Overseers collectively gasped. "A true Immortal!"

    All of them exchanged nces and couldn''t help but break into smiles.

    "Dad!" A young boy, his face still carrying the softness of youth, burst onto an ind on the Blood Crystal Pool, pushing open the gate of a courtyard.

    Inside, the middle-aged schr Zhang Mu sat upright in a pavilion, engrossed in his reading, his gaze deep and prating.

    Seeing his son, Zhang Mu remainedposed and closed the book he was reading, <em>Spring Chamber ssics</em>, asking coolly, "Whats the rush, boy?"

    The boy, Zhang Yang, panting and red-eyed with veins of anger, fists clenched tight, was clearly furious.

    "Dad, have you heard about the incidents at the Sword Puppet Forest and Azure Phoenix Tower?" he asked through gritted teeth.

    "I''ve heard. What about it?" Zhang Mu responded calmly.

    "That Exile Yun, out of frustration for not being able to defeat Exile Ling, killed Senior Sister Ruolin in a fit of rage!" the boy said, his voice a mixture of sorrow and anger.

    "Do you have feelings for Feng Ruolin?" Zhang Mu inquired.

    "She''s gone. What''s the point now?" Zhang Yang slumped down, defeated. Then, he shot his father a look, grinding his teeth. "Dad! Did you hear? Exile Yun''s true identity is a demon spawn! His mother was... by a demon!"

    "Watch your tongue!" Zhang Mu''s eyes shed, "Who told you this?"

    "Everyone''s talking about it. How could it be false? People have already dug up his background. They say that when he was just a child, he wiped out an entire vige. He''s a half-demon! Evil runs in his bones!" Zhang Yang spat out with disgust.

    "Nonsense!" Zhang Mu shook his head.

    "It''s true! They even dug up who his mother wasa whore from a brothel, gued with all sorts of ill-fated diseases, attracting demons. When his mother was pregnant, people saw demon hounds entering their home! At night, her cries were heard!" Zhang Yang, thinking of that scene, felt nauseous, "Can someone born of such a cursed union, tainted by demons, be good?"

    "Who''s feeding you these baseless rumors? Let theme forward!" Zhang Mu, visibly irritated, scolded the boy.

    "Dad! I knew you would react like this! Were Exile Yun''s fellow vigers killed by you?" Zhang Yang used angrily.

    "His fellow vigers were killed?" Zhang Mu was taken aback.

    "You''re still ying dumb? It''s not just his fellow vigers. Anyone who dares to speak aloud about the Fiendish Sword Soul or demon spawn ends up dead in the wilderness! I heard hundreds have died! You''re all so adept at silencing the truth, just killing those who spread it! They just wanted to reveal Exile Yun''s true nature. What''s wrong with that?" Tears welled in Zhang Yang''s red-rimmed eyes.

    "Zhang Yang! Stop this nonsense! Exile Yun was personally appointed by the Sword Warden! Your uncle is the Sword Warden''s son-inw. We are connected. You should take a stand, not just echo what others say! What if someone is spreading rumors and framing Exile Yun? You''re young, don''t be a pawn," Zhang Mu said sternly.

    "Haha!" Zhang Yang stood up abruptly, staring at his father without a hint of trust in his eyes, "Dad, who are you hinting at? Exile Ling? Manipting the entire Sword Ruins to bring down Exile Yun? Who holds the most power in the Sword Ruins now? Isn''t it the Sword Warden? Isn''t it you? Only you could silence the truth! You dare to me Exile Yun; why not say it''s the demons from the Primeval Demon Hell?"

    "Shut up! You ungrateful child!" Zhang Mu furiously pped the boy across the face, sending him flying.

    Zhang Yang rolled on the ground, his face flushed red. Tears streaming down, he looked at Zhang Mu in utter disappointment, roaring, "Zhang Mu! You''re just a hypocritical pretender! Groveling to a cursed demon spawn, killing the righteous for him! Go ahead, suppress the truth all you want. You might kill hundreds, but you can''t silence everyone! Where there''s oppression, there''s resistance! This resistance will eventually make you heartless rulers pay! This Sword Ruins belongs to us, the youth!"

    "..." Zhang Mu remained silent, appearing at a loss for words.

    Zhang Yang stormed away, mming the door on his way out as he departed in sorrow and anger.

    After a while, Zhang Mu shrugged his shoulders with a casual smile, "The Sword Ruins belong to the youth, huh? All of you kids think you''re so smart, brimming with youthful vigor, but you''re just being yed like fiddles. So long as the word <em>naive</em> is written all over your foreheads, you''ll bite whoever we tell you to."

    But what did it matter?

    "Exile Ling said, to achieve greatness, one must forsake even their own kin... such is the path of an Immortal!" Zhang Mu had never heard such a heaven-defying and unconventional notion in his life. Yet, it was this very idea that gave him a twisted sense of peace for his conflicted heart of over a decade.

    From that moment, his warped dao heart suddenly straightened out.

    "One life is all we get. Without bing an Immortal, we all must die. This single lifetime, parents, children, siblings, they''re all shackles on our bodies. Carrying them only exhausts us. Better to seek joy alone. Love yourself, and the secrets of Immortality wille." After saying this, Zhang Mu gave a wistful smile and pulled out another sexually explicit book from his bosom.

    Sitting upright, his expression stern and grim, he continued to read. After flipping through the pages, he burned the book, disgusted, and muttered, "Not as good as my sister-inw."

    At the peak of a mountain in the Sword Ruins. Zhang Yang stood in the wind, his eyes zing with fury. "Is there any justice in this world? Senior Sister Ruolin..."

    He hadn''t seen the incident with his own eyes, but everyone said that Feng Ruolin was beheaded by the aloof Yun Xiao just for not smiling at him. Some people imed to have witnessed the event, saying Feng Ruolin had taunted Yun Xiao.

    "These people, they dare to fabricate anything, it''s infuriating yetughable! Senior Sister Ruolin is the victim. Yet they insist on painting her as the instigator?" Zhang Yang sighed deeply. Clutching his fists, the image of her graceful figure and smile lingered in his memory.

    "Junior Brother Zhang." Suddenly, someone appeared behind him. It was Sikong Yan.

    "Senior Sister Sikong," Zhang Yang said, his heart growing more unsettled as he remembered Feng Ruolin and Sikong Yan often trained together and were very close.

    "Hah..." Sikong Yan, looking at him, shook her head sorrowfully, "Lil Ruolin died so tragically."

    The fiery rage in Zhang Yang''s eyes seemed to ignite further with her words.

    "Were you there at that time?" Zhang Yang asked.

    "I was there," Sikong Yan said painfully. "Right near her. I was also stern-faced at the time. I think if Exile Yun''s skills weren''tcking, I might have been the one ambushed..."

    "To think, the mighty Exiled Sword Immortal resorts to ambushes to establish his reputation!" Zhang Yang clenched his fists so tightly they cracked.

    Sikong Yan''s words confirmed one thing: there was no taunting at all!

    "I heard Exile Yun is essentially a demon, possessing a Fiendish Sword Soul. Allowing him to absorb ten Rank 10 Azure Phoenixes was a sheer waste of precious resources! Imagine the benefits if these Azure Phoenixes were given to the powerhouses of our Sword Ruins instead... What a loss..." Sikong Yan sighed deeply.

    "Senior Sister Sikong, you mustn''t speak of this in crowded ces. Many have been <em>dealt with</em> for merely uttering the word demon, silenced for life. Now the whole Sword Ruins are scared into silence! Exile Yun''s power is overwhelming..." Zhang Yang said with augh, but his voice dripped with sarcasm.

    "I''m not afraid! Even though the Sword Warden has enforced an information ckout to shut us up, it doesn''t change the fact that Exile Yun''s reputation haspletely copsed. If Exile Yun were to die identally, everyone in the Eternal Sword Prison would rejoice!" Sikong Yan said, then added regretfully, "Sadly, the Sword Warden''s family protects him too well. No one can enter the Valley of Ruins. Not many people have the Mu Family''s trust and can approach him easily! Exile Yun is only in the Saint Realm. Even if he has thebat power of someone at the Early Awakened Emperor Realm, he''s still easy to kill if his protectors let their guard down."

    "Enter the Valley of Ruins, the Mu Family''s trust" Zhang Yang shivered. Mu Dalong was his aunt. And Mu Xiaolong was his cousin. They were blood rtives, and he had asionally visited the Valley of Ruins to y with Mu Xiaolong.

    Before the Sword Baptism Ceremony, he and Mu Xiaolong were very close Zhang Yang''s throat burned! His rage was now beyond control!

    "Senior Sister Sikong," Zhang Yang took a deep breath, "I have something to attend to. Please excuse me."

    Back in the Valley of Ruins, in the Mu-Mu Hut, Yun Xiao was resting in his residence.

    With a loud thud, Mu Xiaolong dropped down a golden Bag of Holding before Yun Xiao. "Fae, this is something my grandfather sent for you."

    "What?" Yun Xiao, taking a break from his cultivation, opened his eyes to see the fourteen-year-old girl standing before him. She seemed so young and delicate, almost doll-like.

    "I heard it was about 10,000 Immortal Jades," Mu Xiaolong said with envy, pouting, "I''ve never seen so much money in my life."

    "Immortal Jades?" Yun Xiao knew this was a crystal stone far purer than Saint Stones, a top grade spiritual jade produced only in the Nine Hells. The Sword Warden probably felt somewhat apologetic about the Sword Rings and sent this as a gift to make amends.

    "Alright, leave it there! I''m cultivating; you go y." Yun Xiao treated her like a child.

    "Can I just stay here?" Mu Xiaolong asked pitifully.

    "Stay for what?"

    "You''re good-looking, and I''m a fan of beauty. I want to look at you more, so I can have sweet dreams," Mu Xiaolong said cheekily, making a cute face.

    "..." Yun Xiao stared at her, dumbstruck. He needed to feed the Blue Star and Red Moon the Immortal Jades, so naturally, he couldn''t be observed. He pointed outside and said, "Nope, sorry. Scram!"

    Mu Xiaolong pouted and obediently left,menting, "So annoying, even when he''s stern, he''s so good looking. How is that even possible..."

    As she thought this, Mu Dalong called from outside, "Xiaolong, your cousin is looking for you to y."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 272: Yun Short!

    Chapter 272: Yun Short!

    "So, this is an Immortal Jade?" Yun Xiao, with a hint of disbelief in his eyes, pulled a snow-white jade stone from his Pouch of Holding.

    This wasn''t any ordinary rock. Petite in size, yet it boasted a surface swirling with natural ley lines. Thanks to a long spell under the nurturing of the heavens, it was packed to the brim with Immortal energy. This was more than just a shiny pebble; it was a boon for cultivators to absorb the forces of heaven and earth, and also a handy piece of basic currency.

    But in Yun Xiao''s world, power was akin to the favorite snack of Red Moon! No sooner had he taken out the Immortal Jade than a tongue, bristling with backward-facing spines, shot out from his bosom, ensnaring the stone and dragging it into its mouth.

    <em>CRUNCH! </em>Red Moon chomped down on it like it was a sugared pea, savoring every bit, and hollered, "Hurry up, more! I''m starving over here!"

    "You''ve devoured all the spoils of war from the Heavenly Realm, and you''re still hungry?" Yun Xiao eximed, a mix of amusement and disbelief in his voice.

    This coffin soul beast was bing more like a bottomless pit by the day.

    Right after Yun Xiao had dealt with the aftermath of the great war with the Demon Continent, he hadnded in the Eternal Sword Prison. All his worldly possessions were devoured by the beast during those three days of the Eternal Sword humming.

    And now, a massive fortune of 10,000 Immortal Jades was about to vanish into thin air!

    "At least this money''s spent where it''s needed," Yun Xiao thought, a tad resigned. "Their vitality''s getting a much-needed boost."

    Yun Xiao''s approach was methodical. Shore up his base, and then focus on breakthroughs in due time. Survival was his priority. Then, he could leverage his talent as the Creator Immortal for a meteoric rise... This was his idea of a sensible, safe game n.

    So, the past three days in the Eternal Sword Prison were mostly about powering up Blue Star and Red Moon.

    And now, it was almost Yun Xiao''s turn. He reached into his bosom and took out another Pouch of Holding, this one brimming with enhanced Heavenly Dao Sariras, easily numbering over a hundred thousand.

    All these were coughed up by Blue Star in these three days!

    "The Sword Baptism Ceremonysted three more days than expected. Not only did it fail to yield good results, it even cast doubt on the authenticity of my talents. Next time there''s a test, I''ll have to tone it down a bit. No use wasting time," Yun Xiao mused, scratching his chin in thought.

    He did the math. Had he not frittered away those three days, he''d be in the Late Awakened Emperor Realm by now. For others, three days might mean a long nap, but for him, it was enough to conquer an entire map. What a colossal waste of time!

    "Showing off too much can backfire," Yun Xiaomented, a lesson learned the hard way.

    "The Eight Mortal Realms are all about umting magic power through cultivation. At this stage, there''s no need for enlightenment. Just focus on solidifying the foundation of the Dantian," Yun Xiao reminded himself. Using the tailor-made Heavenly Dao Sariras at this stage indeed had its merits.

    Without a second thought, Yun Xiao fed all 10,000 Immortal Jades to Red Moon, then gobbled up the 100,000 Heavenly Dao Sariras he''d umted. As he channeled the Primordial Void Technique, he felt his cultivation growing stronger.

    Yun Xiao, now adept and nearly able to control three bodies and three cultivation systems simultaneously, even found time to chat with Blue Star.

    "Tomorrow''s the Immortal Sword Rankings. Ling Chen will probably make a push too. What do you think about his growth rate?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Although hecks Heavenly Dao Sariras, he has memories from his past life. Plus, his innate talents and foundation surpass yours. In the final sprint of the Eight Mortal Realms, he shouldn''t be slower than you," Blue Starmented with a smirk.

    "I have both the Nine Dragons Dantian and Nine Heavens Star Meridians, and he''s still more gifted than me?" Yun Xiao asked, a bit incredulous.

    "His reborn body is a hidden top-tier Seed of Creation. How else could it have been chosen for rebirth? With his memories, it won''t take long to fully activate his talent," Blue Star exined, casting a disdainful nce at Yun Xiao. "Your Nine Dragons Dantian? In these Sword Ruins, that''s practically the bottom of the barrel. The cultivators here have ten times the magic power of an average Divine Continent cultivator in the same realm."

    Essentially, this was the gap between Ye Guying and the Sword Cultivators of the Sword Ruins. It was perfectly normal.

    "And Ye Xingchen''s Nine Heavens Star Meridians were actually snatched by you right at the start. It''s a bit of a waste they didn''t get to develop," Blue Star added. That''s why he suggested that Yun Xiao should let Ling Chen mature a bit.

    Yun Xiao could certainly nurture his Nine Heavens Star Meridians to a formidable level on his own, but that would take ages. Instead, he thought it wiser to add a new Seed of Creation directly onto his meridians.

    There were two kinds of talents! One was the innate talent of a living being. The other was the Seed of Creation.

    Innate talents were those bestowed by the Creator Immortal when creating a living being. These, for the time being, were irrevocable.

    But the talents from the Seed of Creation, now those were a different story. They were pilfered by the Six Ancestral Gods from the Creator Immortal and gifted to all living beingsa part that wasnt originally theirs!

    The Sword Cultivators of the Eternal Sword Prison naturally boasted talents far exceeding those of Divine Continent cultivators. And yet, there were over a million people here gifted with bonus talents from Seeds of Creation on top of that.

    As Blue Star elucidated these points, Yun Xiao was feeling the pinch himself. His Nine Dragons Dantian was struggling to withstand the vastness of the Primordial Void Techniques sacred power. Despite consuming a hefty amount of Heavenly Dao Sariras, much of his power was leaking away, leading to wastage.

    When Yun Xiao reached the Perfect Saint Realm, his Dantian hit its capacity, teetering on the brink of copse.

    "Stop cultivating for now; it''s too risky," Blue Star warned.

    "Got it," Yun Xiao nodded, a tad disheartened. "Seems like my enlightenment talent is top-notch, but physically, I''m still bottom-tier in the mortal world."

    This was the stark contrast in Yun Xiao. His enlightenment was his trump card, but his physicality was his Achilles'' heel. The 100,000 resonances of the Eternal Sword, his talents in the sword, and hisprehension abilities were all linked to his perception.

    "Maybe you should rename yourself to Yun Short," Blue Star mocked mercilessly. "Hehe. You know, cause that frail body of yours really does fall short."

    "Buzz off." Yun Xiao rolled his eyes as he stood up and walked outside, speaking calmly, "I nned to hunt a few Seeds of Creation in the Immortal Sword Rankings to solidify my foundation. Now, it seems my Nine Dragons Dantian won''t make it till then."

    Dantian, flesh, and meridians Yun Xiao was considered bottom-tier in the Eternal Sword Prison. The overwhelming talents of his opponents inevitably impacted his ability to fight above his level. Even defeating Feng Ruolin had been a close shave, requiring an unexpectedly ruthless approach.

    Fortunately, Yun Xiao''s prowess in his Sword Soul and Sword Aura had surged, propelling him to the pinnacle of the Sword Ruins and bolstering his strength. With this in mind, he didnt hesitate and stepped outside.

    There, Yun Xiao saw a lively duel underway. One of thebatants was a young girl in a pale yellow skirt, wielding a delicate golden Sword Soul. This was Mu Xiaolong, just fourteen but already at the Establishment Awakened Emperor Realm, a mere step away from the Dao Heart Realm, and a Supreme Disciple of the Sword Ruins.

    Her opponent was a boy in dark clothing. His Sword Soul, more a curved de, disyed a mix of four colors, veiled in a blood red hue and adorned with five Sword Rings, with over 1,600yers of Sword Aura. His youth and mere presence in the sealed off Valley of Ruins spoke of a high status.

    "That boy has a Seed of Creation," Blue Star observed keenly.

    "I know," replied Yun Xiao calmly, without a hint of malice in his eyes. The allure of Seeds of Creation no longer captivated him as it once did. Seeing a Seed of Creation in the Eternal Sword Prison was toomon.

    Including the Sword Warden, Mu Dalong, and Mu Xiaolong, all possessed Seeds of Creation. Yun Xiao couldnt possibly y them all.

    At this stage, he was selective, focusing on the bigger fishthe Six Ancestral Gods. The Seeds of Creation in the Nine Hells were merely sipping from the cup.

    "His Dantian is the Hundred Scales Dantian, with a hundred interlocking scales on its inner wall. While it doesnt amplify power much, its strength lies in its endurance, ideal for the Primordial Void Technique. Its an excellent choice as an intermediary to tide you over," Blue Star persuaded.

    "Eat him, and you won''t be Yun Short anymore!" Red Moon cackled.

    Ignoring them, Yun Xiao turned to Mu Xiaolong and asked, "Who''s this?"

    As he emerged, Mu Xiaolong and the dark-clothed youth had ceased their duel and respectfully approached Yun Xiao.

    "Exile Yun, his name is Zhang Yang. He''s my cousin," Mu Xiaolong said sweetly.

    "Did you hear that? He''s her rtive. I have a good rtionship with the Mu Family; how could I just go about ying her cousin upon meeting?" Yun Xiao whispered to Blue Star.

    Blue Star rolled his eyes, aware that in the world of humans, sentiments and reason often dictated actions. Yun Xiao might be wrathful, foolish, and greedy, but even he had his own sense of rationale.

    A raw talent alone with no reason would only create a heavenly fiend.

    Mu Dalong was also nearby, but she wasn''t paying too much attention. This was the Valley of Ruins, the safest ce in the Eternal Sword Prison. She felt at ease here, squatting down, tending to the flowers and grass in the courtyard, her back to Yun Xiao and the other two.

    Then, the moment arrived.

    "Yun Xiao..." Zhang Yang''s eyes immediately turned bloodshot at the sight of Yun Xiao. The rage in the young man''s chest burst forth like a volcano! He was reminded of Feng Ruolin''s death, the demon spawn rumors, and the suppression and silencing of those who spoke out.

    "You evil demon, die!!!" Zhang Yang growled. All his grievances and righteous fury converged on his Wind Moon Sword Soul. This was a Silva grade Sword Soul, three grades higher than Gxy grade!

    The attitude shift was too abrupt. Even before Zhang Yang''s killing intent was fully unleashed, his Wind Moon Sword Soul transformed into a Flying Sword streaking straight for Yun Xiao.

    Rather than a sword, it was more like a throwing knife! The blood-colored de, swirling close by, was like a sh of lightning, slicing towards Yun Xiao''s throat!

    <em>Flying Sword Technique, Demon Wind Blood Moon! </em>

    This was Zhang Yang''s signature move. To perfect it, he had practiced it hundreds of times on his way here. His fury was channeled into this single, deadly strike. Even if it meant his own death, he was determined to execute justice.

    "AHHH!!" Mu Xiaolong, still giggling as she introduced Yun Xiao to her cousin, even calling him a big dummy, was suddenly startled pale as the deadly move exploded out of nowhere.

    Instinctively, she tried to shield Yun Xiao with her body. But, obviously, how could she match the speed of a close-range Flying Sword?

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao, who was just lecturing Blue Star, never imagined he''d be caught off-guard like this! His gaze sharpened, but his expression remained unchanged. In a sh, he flicked his finger, and an invisible vortex suddenly entwined around Zhang Yang''s flying knife!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The knife, as if stuck in a quagmire, trembled violently, emitting a mournful wail.

    In the blink of an eye, no one could discern that this was a miniature, modified version of the Wuji Dao Art, a skill derived from their ancestor Gongshu Dao. It resembled a spatial transfer technique!

    Of course, Yun Xiao''s magic power wasn''t sufficient to fully harness it. This miniaturized Wuji Dao Art could only slow down the flying knife, notpletely stop its deadly trajectory. But that was enough.

    Yun Xiao looked coldly at Zhang Yang, his hand suddenly wielding a three-foot azure de wrapped in 10,001yers of Sword Aura. Holding the sword with both hands, he shed down!

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Xiao, swift as lightning, struck the Wind Moon Sword Soul caught in the spatial vortex! His Heaven Burial Sword Soul''s 10,001yers of Sword Aura met Zhang Yang''s 1,600yers.

    With a loud explosion, Yun Xiao was blown back by the tremendous force behind the attack!

    As the Wind Moon Sword Soul, it couldn''t even let out a wail before exploding into smithereens!

    "NO!" Zhang Yang''s eyes, filled with anticipation, split open in shock. His face twisted in anger and pain. In the next moment, he was flung away by a golden storm of force, crashing heavily to the ground. His flesh and bones shattered as he was nearly ttened into a pancake.

    Of course, the person who''d incapacitated Zhang Yang was Mu Dalong. She''d just been arranging flowers in the courtyard, never expecting him to attack Yun Xiao. Her panicked response left Zhang Yang nearly dead. But with his Sword Soul shattered and his spirit fading, he was destined for death anyway...

    Covered in blood and buried into the earth, Zhang Yang looked up at Yun Xiao. In his dying breath, his eyes flickering with madness, he snarled, "Demon spawn, you will die!"

    <em>THUD! </em>He copsed back to the ground, eyes wide open in death.

    "Exile Yun!" Mu Dalong instantly appeared before Yun Xiao. Her eyes were red with worry, her face pale with tension. She clutched Yun Xiao''s arms and asked with a quivering voice, "Are you alright?"

    "What kind of joke is that? A kid killing me?" Yun Xiao remainedposed throughout, though slightly irked, particrly because Blue Star was cackling in his mind. Still, he''d resolved his pressing issue with the acquisition of the Hundred Scales Dantian.

    Mu Dalong breathed a sigh of relief. <em>If he still has the energy to joke around, he should be fine. </em>

    She quickly stepped back, pulling her bewildered daughter beside her. The two knelt before Yun Xiao, bowing their heads deeply, as shemented, "Exile Yun, I''ve failed to protect you and put you in danger. Please punish me."

    "Stand up," Yun Xiao said, his two words carrying an irrefutable authority.

    The mother-daughter duo hastily stood up, bowing respectfully.

    Mu Dalong nced at Zhang Yang''s corpse, her voice filled with sorrow, "That was Zhang Mu''s child. I had no idea he would do something so foolish. Rest assured, Exile Yun, we will investigate thoroughly and provide you with an exnation."

    Since the passing of her husband, her contact with Zhang Mu''s family had been limited, with only Mu Xiaolong and Zhang Yang maintaining a good rtionship.

    "I... I didn''t know either," Mu Xiaolong stammered, hiding behind her mother, her small face ashen.

    Just then, the Sword Warden appeared.

    "Dalong, take care of the body first. Then detain Zhang Mu and bring him to the Valley of Ruins," the Sword Warden ordered.

    "Dad, it might not be rted to Zhang Mu. Maybe someone else incited this," Mu Dalong spected.

    "We''ll find out after investigating," the Sword Warden replied.

    "Wait," Yun Xiao said. He walked over and squatted beside Zhang Yang, as if he were investigating something. After a moment, he stood up and turned to Mu Dalong, "You can take him away now."

    "Did you find anything, Exile Yun?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "No." Yun Xiao shook his head. It was just a fortunate resolution to his urgent problem.

    "Given this incident, it''s our responsibility to ensure your safety. I''ll assign more Overseers from the Sword Ruins to guard you day and night," the Sword Warden dered.

    "Will they all be women? Young ones?" Yun Xiao asked, curious.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 273: A Wine Lovers Heart is Not in the Cup

    Chapter 273: A Wine Lover''s Heart is Not in the Cup

    Yun Xiao didn''t mind more guards. But if he was going to have more people sticking to him all day, he''d rather they not be musky old men. Or else he might just go crazy.

    "Uh..." the Sword Warden said, scratching his head in embarrassment, "To be an Overseer, one can''t be a spring chicken. Dalong is already the youngest of the lot."

    "Forget it then," Yun Xiao shrugged.

    The Sword Warden, recalling Yun Xiao''s saying how he couldn''t be killed, felt a bit more at ease.

    "But what did he mean by <em>demon spawn</em>?" Yun Xiao asked, his eyes narrowing slightly.

    "Well..." the Sword Warden mumbled, head bowed, "I was just about to discuss this with you, but I didn''t know how to broach the topic. I''m afraid you might be disappointed with my Sword Ruins."

    "Spit it out," Yun Xiao said.

    So the Sword Warden spilled the beans about the recent demon spawn rumors swirling around the Sword Ruins.

    Yun Xiao, after hearing this, was more speechless than if he''d swallowed a fly.

    "People have actually died from being <em>silenced</em> for discussing this?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Apparently so, but it wasn''t my doing," the Sword Warden said earnestly.

    "Amusing, really! Smearing my name with one hand, and killing people to frame me with the other. ying both ends against the middle, they''ve really dragged my name through the mud." Yun Xiao usually kept his cool, but today, he felt downright nauseated.

    Clearly, someone had taken advantage of Zhang Yang''s naivety. He was yed like a fiddle and led here like amb to the ughter.

    "Forget it. With brains like that, even if you''d somehow survived this, you wouldn''t havested long. I''m just sending you off on your way to the Yellow Springs early. Try to grow a brain in your next life," Yun Xiao muttered to the Hundred Scales Dantian forming inside him.

    "Exile Yun, such petty scheming is truly despicable. I was caught off guard. My apologies!" the Sword Warden said, his eyes burning with indignation.

    "It''s fine, Sword Warden. I know you''re a straightforward and noble person. That''s all that matters," Yun Xiao replied, shrugging it off with a smile. "So, you should know. A Sword Cultivator, whomands the world with his de, needs not fear such devilish words! Truth and justice wille out in time."

    Yun Xiao had encountered simrly malicious rumors in the Heavenly Realm too. In truth, he was also disgusted. But such was the human heart. Too often, a gentleman would lose in a battle of public opinion to a scoundrel. He was above squabbling over such petty matters.

    "The people are misled, and devilish words disrupt the order. Aren''t you worried?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "Why worry? They smear my name, hoping to make my death a cause for celebration. But the question is, am I going to die?" Yun Xiao said with a cold smile.

    "Then they are indeed wasting their time." The Sword Warden nodded in deep agreement. He truly admired Yun Xiao''sposure. He knew Yun Xiao wasn''t indifferent; he was simply too lofty to care.

    To Yun Xiao, these petty schemes were like flies buzzing around; no need for arguments, just swat them away.

    "I hope Ling Chen doesn''t know about this low-level trickery," Yun Xiao remarked casually.

    "Right!" The Sword Warden nodded again.

    Just then, Mu Dalong returned, reporting, "I''ve made arrangements to have Zhang Mu detained."

    "These demon spawn rumors likely stem from the Ku Family. But Zhang Yang''s rebellion had to have been spurred on by someone. We''ll get to the bottom of it and give you a proper exnation," the Sword Warden promised earnestly.

    "That''s secondary," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "What does Exile Yun find more important?" the Sword Warden asked, puzzled.

    "I just faced danger, and your daughter failed to protect me. I was startled... Sword Warden, your family owes mepensation," Yun Xiao stated dryly.

    "Compensation?" The Sword Warden, looking between a guilt-ridden Mu Dalong and a bewildered Mu Xiaolong, cautiously asked, "What kind ofpensation do you have in mind?"

    "Hmm..." Yun Xiao nced at them, pondered for a moment, then gave the Sword Warden a meaningful look. "You know, that thing!"

    "That thing? What exactly?" The Sword Warden felt the pressure, afraid of misunderstanding Yun Xiao''s intent.

    Seeing his cluelessness, Yun Xiao sighed. "You know. That!" He reached out into the air with his hand, as if he were holding onto something, and then put it to his mouth before smacking his lips. Afterwards, he looked at the Sword Warden with a smile. "Your daughter made a mistake. So, don''t be stingy!"

    The Sword Warden''s gaze shifted between Mu Dalong and Mu Xiaolong, his expression growingplicated.

    "Also, your Golden Springs now belong to me," Yun Xiao dered. <em>Bluey said it''d help my cultivation!</em>

    "No problem. The Golden Springs are yours. It''s always protected by a powerful formation. You''ll be safe while cultivating there. But about thatpensation... can we discuss it? After all..." the Sword Warden said, his eyes filled with mixed emotions.

    "Discuss my foot! Can''t you even show this much sincerity?" Yun Xiao red at him, then turned and strode towards the Golden Springs, leaving onest remark: "You have fifteen minutes to present it to me."

    With that, Yun Xiao stepped into the pool of golden liquid. This pool, a mix of medicinal herbs, liquor, and a hint of milk fragrance, was a paradise for him and Red Moon.

    As long as Yun Xiao didn''t have to bathe together with the Sword Warden, it was quitefortable! It was like a personal hot spring resort.

    Golden mist hung in the air, and steam shrouded the water.

    "Hey, you two. Come out with me for a bit," the Sword Warden said, turning around and leading his daughter and granddaughter outside. Once outside, he let out a sigh and said, "After all, these two Exiled Sword Immortals may be different in character, but they have simr tastes!"

    "What do you mean, Dad?" Mu Dalong asked with a puzzled expression.

    "Didn''t you understand what he wanted forpensation?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "No." Both Mu Dalong and Mu Xiaolong shook their heads.

    "Such simpletons!" the Sword Warden muttered, "When he reached out with his hand, pretending to grab onto something, and then put it to his mouth, wasn''t he implying" He trailed off, too embarrassed to borate. Instead, he patted around his chest as if he were holding two <em>bignterns</em> and gritted his teeth. "You know, he wants <em>that</em>, doesn''t he?"

    "Ah?" Mu Dalong was taken aback, "Dad, you mean Exile Yun wants you topensate him with a woman?"

    "Not just any woman," the Sword Warden, ruffling his temples, looked utterly distressed.

    "Then what?" Mu Dalong pressed, biting her lip.

    The Sword Warden nced at the bewildered Mu Xiaolong in her short skirt and said, "It seems he wants Mu Xiaolong to join him for a... a lovebird''s bath."

    "Ah!" Both Mu Dalong and Mu Xiaolong gasped.

    "Dad, that can''t be! Xiaolong is only fourteen; she''s too young and doesn''t understand these things," Mu Dalong said anxiously, looking at her daughter.

    "Exactly! That''s why I''m so vexed!" the Sword Warden gently patted Mu Xiaolong''s shoulder, consoling, "Child, don''t worry, for your innocence, Grandpa will talk to Exile Yun..."

    "Hold on!" Mu Xiaolong pushed his hand away, her eyes wide, "Why don''t you ask what I think?"

    "What you think?" The Sword Warden was taken aback.

    "I couldn''t be more willing! Grandpa, Mom, if you stop me, you''re blocking my chance to ascend with Fae!" With that, Mu Xiaolong didn''t wait for her mother''s or grandfather''s approval and dashed towards the Golden Springs!

    "Uh" The Sword Warden and Mu Dalong exchanged nces, stunned.

    "A chance to ascend?" Mu Dalong pondered the phrase.

    "Kids these days are so clever and open minded. Maybe it''s me who''s been too old-fashioned," the Sword Warden mused.

    "So, this is the Hundred Scales Dantian?" In a short time, Yun Xiao''s Dantian was adorned with unique golden scales,yering and blending into his bloodstream, significantly fortifying its resilience. "Now, I can continue to break through!"

    With a bountiful supply of Immortal Jades, the only thing limiting Yun Xiao''s ascent was the speed at which the coffin soul beast refined the Heavenly Dao Sariras. As he channeled the Primordial Void Technique, a torrent of dark crystal beads entered his Dantian, transforming into sacred power. His cultivation was growing rapidly!

    "This feeling of growing stronger is indeed fulfilling," Yun Xiao mused.

    Sure enough, a Seed of Creation was a miraculous gift! He couldn''t help but covet the million other ones in the Eternal Sword Prison. He was lost in the expansion of the Primordial Void, forgetting everything else.

    Suddenly, a timid voice broke the silence.

    "Fae, shall I help you bathe?"

    "What?" Yun Xiao paused, his cultivation interrupted. Slowly opening his eyes, he saw before him in the golden pool, a delicate young girl.

    She was dressed in a thin undergarment, her long hair cascading over her skin. Though young and only just budding, the girl''s tender and bashful demeanor, hidden in the golden mist, was especially captivating.

    "Xiaolong, what are you doing here?" Yun Xiao asked, his handsome face turning slightly red. He was no saint! In such an atmosphere, a shy girl on the verge of blooming could indeed stir one''s blood.

    "Don''t worry, Fae. I understand now. Grandpa already exined it to me. I''m happy to do it. From now on, I will serve you for life!" Mu Xiaolong, clutching her garment, blushed as she spoke, her eyes filled with affection.

    "Huh? It''s good that you understand, because I sure don''t!" Yun Xiao''s eyes went wide, nearly fainting with shock. "Have you lost your mind?"

    "Ah?" Mu Xiaolong''s eyes clouded with confusion, she stammered, "But didn''t you hint to grandpa that you wanted me aspensation?" She mimicked grabbing something from the air, putting it to her mouth and smacking her lips, then looked down at her undergarment...

    "..." Yun Xiao nearly choked in disbelief. "I never said I wanted you aspensation!"

    Hearing this, Mu Xiaolong was struck as if by lightning. "You! WAAAAH..." Tears streaming, she ran out of the Golden Springs, leaving Yun Xiao alone in his turmoil.

    "What I wanted aspensation was the Golden Springs Wine! How could that old man be so foolish!" Yun Xiao was exasperated. Putting something to his mouth and smacking his lips... Didn''t that universally mean downing a jug of wine?

    "You should''ve just told him directly you wanted wine. Why the charades?" Blue Star said, rolling his eyes.

    "I didn''t want everyone to think I was an alcoholic..." Yun Xiao admitted sheepishly. He had already taken most of the Sword Warden''s Golden Spring Wine and felt a bit awkward asking for more.

    "Oh? Now you''re worried about your image?" Blue Star said with a hint of disdain.

    "Aplete misunderstanding! It''s over now." Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh and cry at the same time. But for him, this was just a pleasant diversion. Without giving it much thought, he continued immersing himself in his cultivation.

    In just half an hour, Yun Xiao officially stepped into the Establishment stage of the Saint Realm!

    "The Hundred Scales Dantian really makes a difference!" Yun Xiao felt a surge of warmth in his eyes. "Time to continue!"

    "Xiaolong, what happened?" Mu Dalong was rmed seeing her daughter emerge disheveled and in tears.

    "That Exile Yun!" the Sword Warden gritted his teeth.

    "Mom! It''s all your fault!" Mu Xiaolong red at her mother.

    "My fault? For what!?" Mu Dalong asked, confused.

    "He didn''t want me aspensation, he wanted you!" After saying this, Mu Xiaolong ran away heartbroken.

    "WHAT!?"

    The Sword Warden and Mu Dalong exchanged an awkward nce.

    "Cough, cough." The Sword Warden coughed, "You should go!"

    "Dad, is that really okay?" Mu Dalong bit her lip, her eyes trembling slightly.

    "What''s not okay? Zhang Qian has been gone for fourteen years, you deserve to be happy. Xiaolong is right. Exile Yun, it''s fate... I just want you to be happy, don''t suppress yourself," the Sword Warden said gently.

    "But..." Mu Dalong hesitated. It was all so sudden; her heart was in turmoil.

    "I won''t decide for you, you''re grown up, make your own decision!" the Sword Warden said, patting his daughter''s shoulder and walking away.

    Mu Dalong stood there alone, looking towards the Golden Springs, her mind filled with memories of the past fourteen years...

    "Time to sprint to the Awakened Emperor Realm!" After three whole days, Yun Xiao once again experienced the joy of a sudden surge in cultivation. These three days felt like thirty years!

    "Whew..." Yun Xiao took a deep breath, soaking up the power of the Heavenly Dao Sariras, spurring a transformation in the sacred power of his Dantian!

    Just then, in this golden hot spring resort, the water rippled gently, and a snowy figure skimmed over the surface. Red Moon, feeling the disturbance, squeezed out of Yun Xiao''s embrace to look.

    "Lanterns? Who''s turning on such bright lights so close by?" Red Moon was dazzled.

    "Hm?" Yun Xiao, disturbed, opened his eyes. Before him, a vision of a wless figure, squirming with shyness, filled his view. So close he could almost touch it!

    "Pfft!" Yun Xiao almost spat blood, for real this time. His Dantian was in turmoil as his blood boiled! He nearly sumbed to qi deviation!

    "Exile Yun, it''s been over a decade since Ist served someone. If I''m clumsy, please forgive me," the woman said softly, her alluring voice bone-melting.

    Just as he was about to be entranced, Yun Xiao staggered back several steps, eximing, "Dalong, what are you doing?"

    "Compensation..." Mu Dalong paused slightly.

    "..." Yun Xiao almost fainted again. He hadn''t expected that after Mu Xiaolong left, she hadn''t rified things, even involving Mu Dalong in this mess?

    "No, no..." Yun Xiao quickly said, "I meant wine! The Golden Springs Wine! I wanted your father to give me more! You know, smacking your lips after downing some good wine, like this?"

    "..." Mu Dalong was taken aback. Having been around the block, she quickly recovered, hastily dressing herself before saying to Yun Xiao, I apologize, my father''s lost his marbles, dragging me into this mess!

    Blushing furiously, Mu Dalong dashed off, even faster than her daughter.

    Damn. Yun Xiao, with his remarkableposure, finally cleared the air. Then, suppressing his thoughts, he quickly entered back into a state of cultivation within just three breaths of time.

    Nothing would stop him from breaking through three stages to reach the Awakened Emperor Realm! After all, there were still plenty of folks on the Immortal Sword Rankings he had to sweep aside.

    Tough guy! Blue Star eximed in admiration.

    What a waste! Red Moon scoffed disdainfully.

    And so, the Awakened Emperor Realm was achieved! That said, the journey there was filled with unexpected detours

    "What, he wants more of my wine?" The Sword Warden was thunderstruck upon hearing this.

    "Dad" Mu Dalong red coldly at him.

    Hes almost bled me dry, and still wants more? Is he an Exiled Sword Immortal or a rpsed alcoholic? The Sword Warden gritted his teeth.

    So, your daughter and granddaughter arent as important as your wine? Mu Dalong was fuming.

    Nonono, of course not! But but him snatching up all my wine hurts more than my heart being pierced through with a sword! the Sword Wardenmented.

    I see it all now! Mu Dalong was furious, You knew all along he wanted wine! To save your precious wine, you deliberately set us up! I''ll stab you with a sword right now and send you on your way early, you heartless old bastard!

    Wait, WHAT!? Shh-shh-shh! Dont be rash! The Sword Warden coughed, Actually, I was just testing his resolve, to see if hes like Exile Ling. I had good intentions.

    After saying this, he sighed deeply with a wistful look on his face, As expected, Exile Yun, unmoved by temptation, is truly a saint on the Immortal path!

    "..." Mu Dalong stared at her father, speechless.

 Chapter 274: The Villain Enters the Stage! (1)

    Chapter 274: The Viin Enters the Stage! (1)

    In the shadow of the Sword Ruins, Zhang Mu knelt before the Sword Warden, his face a canvas of shame and sorrow. "Sword Warden," hemented, "my boy was led astray, and in my folly, I failed to guide him. My disturbance of the Exiled Sword Immortal is an unforgivable sin!"

    The Sword Warden, standing with his hands behind his back, his face as cold as frost, asked in a deep voice, "Do you know who Zhang Yang has been in contact withtely?"

    "I''m ashamed to say, I do not know," Zhang Mu replied, his voice dripping with shame.

    "Then, it seems his fate is sealed," the Sword Warden dered solemnly.

    Zhang Mu let out a heavy sigh, the weight of the world seemingly on his shoulders.

    "You may leave. Continue to oversee the Immortal Sword Rankings," the Sword Warden instructed.

    "Yes," Zhang Mu said, rising to his feet. He cast a guilt-ridden nce at the Sword Warden, looking suddenly years older, his spirit wilted like a flower in drought.

    After Zhang Mu departed, the Sword Warden turned to Mu Dalong and asked, "Since losing his wife, hasn''t Zhang Mu treated you well these past years?"

    "Do you want an honest answer?" Mu Dalong inquired.

    "Of course."

    "He harbored feelings for me long ago, which I rejected. It wouldn''t have been appropriate back then, nor would it be now," Mu Dalong said, pursing her lips. "Besides, he always seemed too obsessive for my liking."

    "Hmm." The Sword Warden nodded thoughtfully.

    "Do you suspect something amiss with him?" Mu Dalong asked keenly.

    "It doesn''t matter," the Sword Warden said, looking back at the Valley of Ruins, "In the Sword Ruins, with the emergence of the twin Exiled Sword Immortals, all sorts of unscrupulous and power hungry characters eagerly seek their moment in the limelight. But the ultimate fate rests in the hands of those two. On the day the victor is decided, everyone must face the consequences of their choices."

    "Us too, right?" Mu Dalong asked, her voice soft.

    The Sword Warden smiled, but said nothing.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Above the Exile Pce, a dark violet cloud of sword energy swirled, the fabric of space quivering around it, hinting at the profound mysteries of creation and destruction. With a resounding bang, the grand doors of the pce swung open!

    A young man in a dark violet robe stepped out, his aura brimming with sword energy, warping the space around him. Swords of spatial energy encircled him, and even the cobblestones beneath his feet crumbled into dust, torn asunder by the force of his presence.

    "Congrattions to Exile Ling, on achieving greatness in your divine art!" Ku Xuan, apanied by Overseers Feng, Yun, and Shuang bowed deeply, their eyes brimming with admiration and respect.

    "Exile Ling, how many stages have you broken through in a day?" Ku Xuan asked, his narrow eyes shining with curiosity.

    "Why don''t you guess?" Ling Chen replied, stretching his muscles, which crackled satisfyingly.

    "The mysteries of true immortality are beyond us mere mortals." Ku Xuan chuckled lightly.

    Ling Chen also smiled, then added, "I must say, the Grove Essence Pills you provided were quite effective. A few more, and I could speed through the Eight Mortal Realms, saving a lot of trouble."

    "More?" Ku Xuan looked down. "The Grove Essence Pill is a Silva grade medicine. We''ve already given you all the stock we had in the Sword Ruins."

    "Oh? Yun Xiao didn''t manage to get any?" Ling Chen asked nonchntly.

    "We acted faster than the Sword Warden," Ku Xuan replied with a smile.

    "Oh? Then Yun Xiao might not be too pleased." A hint of mischief yed at the corners of Ling Chen''s mouth, as if he''d just found a delightful new toy, making his journey ahead seem a bit more challenging.

    Everyone chuckled at his words.

    Once theughter subsided, Ku Xuan added, "Exile Ling, our top alchemist in the Eternal Sword Prison, Du Zhongyuan, can make more Grove Essence Pills. I''ll send him a message to hasten his work so that we can deliver new pills during the Immortal Sword Rankings."

    "Du Zhongyuan, he''s one of yours?" Exile Ling inquired.

    "He''s a reclusive, socially awkward man, quirky in nature. Despite having the strength of a Sword Ruins Overseer, he remains a Supreme Adjudicator. Not exactly one of ours. But, my granddaughter is his disciple, learning the art of alchemy from him," Ku Xuan exined.

    "Go ahead," Ling Chen said.

    "Yes!" Ku Xuan turned to Overseers Feng, Yun, and Shuang. "The Immortal Sword Rankings is about to start. You three will apany Exile Ling."

    "Please, Exile Ling," the trio said, motioning for him to lead the way.

    "Mhm." Ling Chen nodded and approached Bai Wuque.

    "Exile Ling..." Bai Wuque bowed deeply.

    Ling Chen patted his face, saying cheerfully, "Sword ve, keep your eyes wide open and savor what they call karma."

    The Supreme Adjudicator Peak, a magnificent sword-shaped mountain, stood proudly at the forefront of the Valley of Ruins. This towering peak, exuding dignity and grandeur, served as the heart of the Sword Ruins'' heritage and one of the ces richest in spiritual energy.

    Here, the Supreme Adjudicators imparted their wisdom. Only Supreme Disciples were granted the privilege to ascend the Supreme Adjudicator Peak. These prodigies, soaring above the clouds in the realm of swordsmanship, were often the scions of the sect''s upper echelons. Even the lowliest among them, like Bai Wuque, hailed from a lineage boasting a Peak Master as a grandfather.

    At the peak''s summit was the Prime Pill Pavilion, the abode and teaching ground of Du Zhongyuan, the preeminent alchemist of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    On this particr day, marking the Immortal Sword Rankings, Du Zhongyuan''s five Supreme Disciples were up at dawn, diligently practicing the art of alchemy under his meticulous and unwavering guidance, a routine he had upheld for a decade.

    In the Sword Ruins, a bastion of legacy, only those who attained the status of Overseer were exempt from the duty of taking disciples. Du Zhongyuan himself was rtively young, a middle-aged man of slender build, with long hair and a beard. He was dressed modestly, exuding a serene presence.

    "Let''s stop here for today and attend the Immortal Sword Rankings," Du Zhongyuan announced as he stood up.

    "Thank you, Master!" chorused the five disciples, each a scion of the Sword Ruins'' elite, impably dressed and radiating confidencea testament to their illustrious backgrounds.

    As they prepared to depart, Du Zhongyuan suddenly added, "Recently, there''s been many rumors about Exile Yun possessing a Fiendish Sword Soul. Tread carefully; these are murky waters. Do not get involved, lest it brings misfortune."

    "Master, what do you mean by that?" asked a youngdy in blue amidst the disciples. Her beauty was striking, yet her eyes held a hint of gloom.

    "Since ancient times, the limit of a Fiendish Sword Soul has been the Grade. Some are deliberately spreading misinformation to discredit Exile Yun. My disciples should stay clear of this," Du Zhongyuan advised.

    Regardless of their origins, as long as they were his students, Du Zhongyuan felt a sense of responsibility for them. In the Sword Ruins, the bond between master and disciple was as sacred as family ties.

    Upon hearing Du Zhongyuan''s words, the four older disciples lowered their heads, their expressions a mix of confusion and skepticism. However, the youngdy in blue, standing in their midst, lifted her gaze defiantly and addressed Du Zhongyuan, "Master, I''ve always held you in high esteem. But today, for the first time, I must disagree with you."

    "Oh?" Du Zhongyuan regarded her calmly.

    "Master, is someone forcing you to whitewash Exile Yun''s reputation? If so, just blink," asked the girl, named Ku Xue.

    Du Zhongyuan shook his head in response. He thought to himself how young people often believed themselves to be shrewd, only to be yed like puppets. "Go on, then," he said, dismissing them with a wave of his hand, and then slipped away into the shadows.

    The five Supreme disciples pursed their lips and turned to leave. As they walked, Ku Xue let out a coldugh. "That old dog Du Zhongyuan, I wonder how much he was paid by Exile Yun to say such things."

    "The world is indeed cold-hearted." Another disciple sighed.

    "It''s the ordinary disciples who suffer the most."

    "In this world, speaking the truth seems forbidden, it''s too dark."

    They shook their heads, their eyes filled with anxiety for the future of the Sword Ruins, their hearts brimming with love for this bastion of swordsmanship and sympathy for their fellow, less fortunate Sword Cultivators.

    However, this didn''t stop them from being unwittingly led by others.

    Ku Xue was quite pleased with her influence over her fellow disciples. She said, feigning rationality, "Let''s be honest, even judging purely by character, that false Immortal is leagues worse than the true one. Don''t argue, because if you do, it means you''re on their side."

    "Regardless, this Immortal Sword Rankings will reveal the fake," another disciple said.

    Five Sovereign Swords took to the sky, soaring towards the heavens. Simultaneously, hundreds of thousands of Sovereign Swords from all corners of the Sword Ruins also ascended, all converging on the same destinationthe Immortal Sword Rankings!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 275: The Villain Enters the Stage! (2)

    Chapter 275: The Viin Enters the Stage! (2)

    <em>VROOM! </em>Yun Xiao also set off on a Sovereign Sword from the Valley of Ruins for the Immortal Sword Rankings, escorted closely by Mu Dalong. Alongside them, Mu Xiaolong, a participant herself, insisted on tagging along.

    Despite being perfectly capable, Mu Xiaolong imed her sword riding skills were toocking and insisted on riding with Yun Xiao. Not just that, but she also seized the spot at the front, her little crush all too evident on her face.

    Her cute charm and coquettishness, coupled with a dash of innocence, made her impossible to refuse. Yun Xiao indulged her whims, thinking that if she weren''t so endearing, she would have been swiftly dismissed.

    "Too fast! It''s so fast!

    "I can''t keep my bnce!

    "Fae, hold me tight"

    Yun Xiao, with the yful young girl in his arms, flew skillfully on his sword, bncing her with one hand. His eyes, however, were fixed on the horizon as he asked her, "Do you really like me, Xiaolong?"

    "Which girl wouldn''t fall for a true Immortal? I dream of you, Fae," she confessed, her affection clear as day.

    Yun Xiao found her frankness intriguing. "Would you want to walk the path of immortality with me?" he asked.

    "Of course, but it seems impossible," she replied, a hint of hesitation in her eyes.

    "True, I prefer to wander alone, free from worldly ties," Yun Xiao admitted.

    "Have you ever loved someone?" she asked nervously.

    "Two!" Yun Xiaoughed. "There was a girl I wanted to take with me, but she loved her peace more than adventure. Another, I thought of walking with forever, but fate had other ns; she turned into a stone"

    "Ah, you sound so heartless," Mu Xiaolong eximed, then quickly added, "But still, I really like you."

    "So, let''s leave matters of fate to destiny," Yun Xiao concluded.

    "Regardless of how the world changes, I''ll always be a loyal admirer!" Mu Xiaolong''s spirits had lifted when she realized Yun Xiao was more interested in the Golden Springs Wine than her mother.

    "You''re still young. When you grow up, you''ll understand that looks aren''t everything for a person," Yun Xiao advised her.

    "But would you marry someone unattractive?" Mu Xiaolong asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

    "No" Yun Xiao admitted, a bit sheepishly, averting his eyes

    "There, you see? You''re only two years older than me, and yet you act so world-weary," Mu Xiaolong scoffed. Then, she snuggled closer to him and whispered, "Didn''t you see clearly in the Golden Springs Wine? I''ve inherited good genes; I''m not that young!"

    Yun Xiao fell silent as they approached the towering Immortal Sword Rankings, a sword peak reaching into the clouds.

    "What are the rules for thepetition?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "It''s simple, just fight," Mu Xiaolong said, her enthusiasm evident in discussing anything with him.

    "How do we fight?"

    "It''s a straightforward elimination battle from start to finish," she exined.

    "Any specific details?"

    "Remember the preliminary registrations? The elders select 4,096 participants from all registrants. Then there are twelve rounds of one-on-one battles to determine the champion of the Immortal Sword Rankings. Based on performance, the elders vote to determine the top 100," she detailed.

    "So, it''s pretty straightforward. Random opponents, twelve rounds, and it''s over," Yun Xiaomented, preferring this format for its simplicitypared to the more borate War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm.

    "It''s not entirely random. To prevent top seeds from shing early, the tournament is divided into sixteen brackets, with Sword Cultivators of various levels in each. I''m in the seventh bracket because of my age," Mu Xiaolong rified.

    Yun Xiao, who only cared about being first in anypetition, found the distinction between random and bracketed matchups irrelevant. He just needed to remember to win twelve consecutive matches.

    "Which bracket am I in?" Yun Xiao asked casually.

    "This time, the first bracket has only two people," Mu Xiaolong said with a grin.

    Yun Xiao understood. Despite their lower cultivation, he and Ling Chen had been ced in the first bracket due to their extraordinary status.

    "So, the only way we''d sh is in the final battle?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Exactly. If either of you falters before then, there''ll be no showdown between the Exiled Sword Immortals. That would be quite embarrassing," she said with a pout.

    "Right!" Yun Xiao thought, pleased. The audience loved seeing strong contenders face off, and this arrangement promised an exciting climax.

    For a destined encounter, both would have to conquer their respective halves of the bracket, standing victorious until the end.

    "The Eternal Sword assessment is just about talent! The Immortal Sword Rankings is where truebat prowess is measured," Mu Xiaolong dered.

    Losing today meant more than just defeat; it was a fall from grace. The title of Exiled Sword Immortal brought not only treasures and resources but also a crushing weight of expectation. Amidst the rampant nder, only Mu Dalong and her daughter knew the immense pressure Yun Xiao faced. Yet, he remained detached and unbothered, an outsider to his own plight.

    "How long will the twelve rounds of elimination take?" Yun Xiao inquired casually.

    "One day, one round every two hours. The quicker you finish, the longer you rest," Mu Dalong answered.

    "Find me a quiet ce to rest then. After each round, I need to cultivate," Yun Xiao said, practical as ever.

    "Why rush, Fae? Why not rx and let me massage your shoulders during the breaks?" Mu Xiaolong pouted.

    "A brief moment?" Yun Xiao just smiled.

    He had a secret up his sleevethe Red Moon''s consumption of the 10,000 Immortal Jades was about to pay off. What seemed like mere moments to Mu Xiaolong was an eternity for Yun Xiao.

    As Yun Xiao andpany approached the bustling atmosphere of the Immortal Sword Rankings, they saw a sea of people floating in the sky, watching the spectacle unfold.

    Below a golden pir that shimmered in the sunlight,st year''s Immortal Sword Rankings had been cleared, making way for new glories. Around this pir were over two thousand golden tforms, each guarded by a Sword Judge and protected by a magic formation. Some of the more intense battles would be overseen by Peak Masters or Supreme Adjudicators themselves.

    "This ce is ten timesrger than the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm," Yun Xiao observed, stepping into an atmosphere charged with a wild, sharp, and solemn spirit of swordsmanship.

    Tens of thousands of Sword Cultivators, their eyes deep and swords shimmering in their gaze, waited with bated breath. Manypetitors had already gathered around Zhang Mu to collect their number tags and determine their brackets.

    A cold, tense atmosphere hung in the air.

    "Exile Yun has arrived" With that one sentence, the heated atmosphere under the Immortal Sword Rankings turned eerily cold and tense, as if a dark, oppressive hand hovered over everyone, casting a shadow of anger and gloom.

    "Looks like I''m the viin making an entrance," Yun Xiao mused, scanning the crowd''s mixed expressions of awe, resentment, and curiosity with a wry smile on his face.

 Chapter 276: Yun Short is a Goner!

    Chapter 276: Yun Short is a Goner!

    In those nces, a mishmash of loathing, resentment, and scorn bubbled forth in a hostile brew. Of course, not everyone was like this, but it was in to see that the majority were.

    These gazes were cold enough to freeze hell over!

    Without a single word uttered, it seemed like the crowd were all silently chanting, "demon spawn" or "Fiendish Sword Soul."

    "Don''t take it to heart, Exile Yun," Mu Dalong said with a worried tone.

    "I''m fine." Yun Xiao shook his head with a nonchnt smile. He cast his gaze over the crowd of people and said, "I think it''s rather splendid, in a way. At least it shows they have a backbone, despising evil. It''s just that I''ve been cast as the viin."

    Yun Xiao believed as long as a person had a sense of justice, even if they weren''t the sharpest tool in the shed, there was still hope for them.

    On a positive note, many of the older Sword Judges and Peak Masters didn''t view Yun Xiao with any hostility. In fact, they admired how unbothered and easygoing he was being.

    "The older ginger is spicier, as they say. Young folks are easily misled, but they''ll grow out of it. They''ll learn how people can manipte human nature," Yun Xiao mused. He wasn''t exactly long in the tooth himself, so he was still getting the hang of this wisdom thing.

    "Please, Exile Yun," Mu Dalong ushered him into a looming tower, to the top floor no less, where the best seats in the house for the spectacle were located, doubling as a ce for cultivation.

    Meanwhile, Mu Xiaolong went to fetch Yun Xiao''spetitor number, which turned out to be <em>#1</em>. This meant that Ling Chen was <em>#4096</em>. One at the very start, the other at the very end.

    "A number assignment hinting at me seizing the best spot? Really?" Yun Xiao shook his head. Petty people, devilish in their ways. Indeed, the moment word got out that he was assigned one as his number, the outside world buzzed with chatter again.

    "Exile Ling became an Exiled Sword Immortal first. Why does Exile Yun get to be number one?"

    "The Sword Warden must be out of his mind, trying to tter him like that..."

    "What a sorry state the Sword Ruins havee to!"

    Another round of despairing sighs for the state of the world.

    Then came Ling Chen''s entrance. The whole area around the Immortal Sword Rankings erupted into a frenzy of pure, ecstatic cheering. The disciples of the Sword Ruins waved their arms high, shouting as if weing the dawn after a long night.

    Yun Xiao arrived and went straight to the highest seat of honor, while Ling Chen yed the man of the people, standing amongst the ordinary disciples, smiling and greeting everyone.

    Such was the scene, sparking yet another wave of contemtion

    Amidst the roaring crowd, the first round of the Immortal Sword Rankings began with a bang!

    Even though it was just the opening round, a staggering million Sword Cultivators gathered in the sky. The high-ranking folks from the Sword Ruins were lurking in the nearby viewing towers. Unseen, but undoubtedly present, were the Sword Warden and the Withered Bone Keeper.

    This was shaping up to be the grandest Immortal Sword Rankings in history.

    Under the watchful eyes of thousands, Zhang Mu stood tall, his gaze fixed on Ling Chen. "As per Exile Ling''s request, his first round will be a solo performance. Any objections?" he asked.

    "No!" came the immediate, unanimous response. They all knew what Ling Chen was up to!

    Sure enough, Zhang Mu''s eyes swept over the crowd, his voice cold as he spoke, "Qin Luo, you''re Exile Ling''s first opponent. He''s giving you a fair chance to redeem yourself. Aren''t youing up?"

    In an instant, the crowd remembered this viin who''d stolen Ling Chen''s sword bhe sole survivor of the Qin family!

    Qin Luo had been under watch these past days, with only one way out, and that defeating Ling Chen.

    "Isn''t Exile Ling in danger? After all, Qin Luo is a prodigy in the Dao Heart Realm," someone murmured.

    "Trust in Exile Ling!" came a chorus of replies.

    This was a tale of revenge!

    Amidst a sea of disdainful nces and jeers, Qin Luo, head slightly bowed and eyes bloodshot, stepped onto the central battle tform.

    Facing him, Ling Chen was like a gentle breeze, effortlesslynding on the tform. His gaze on Qin Luo was calm, devoid of anger or any discernible emotion.

    <em>HUM! </em>In Ling Chen''s hand appeared the nine-colored Sword Soul, with its seven Hell Demon Sword Rings overflowing with a thick, demonic miasma. A total of 8,000yers of nine-colored Sword Aura swirled around the de like a tempest, sealing off the tform and seemingly pressing countless swords against Qin Luo''s throat.

    Such a majestic sword, unveiled before a million Sword Cultivators, sent a shockwave through the audience. Both the Sword Aura and the Sword Rings were of mythical caliber, and the seven Sword Rings were a sight for the ages.

    "Exile Ling!" The young Sword Cultivators, awestruck by this prodigy, shouted his name in fervent admiration. Their voices merged into a tidal wave of magma, sweeping across the battlefield.

    Before such overwhelming might, the once-high-and-mighty Supreme Disciple, Qin Luo, no matter how great his cultivation, seemed as insignificant as an ant in front of Ling Chen.

    "Ling... Ling Chen!" Qin Luo''s voice cracked, his grip on his sword tight, yet unable to stop the trembling of his hands and legs. Driven by a fierce desire to survive, he bit through his lip, standing defiantly against the scorn of a million Sword Cultivators. With a wild roar, he lunged towards Ling Chen.

    <em>KLANG! </em>The might of his sword intent erupted, forming a violet sun that bore down on Ling Chen.

    "I still harbor hatred for this man deep in my heart. This means that the mortal soul of Ling Chen has also merged into this rebirth..." Ling Chen muttered to himself. "I am the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, and I am Ling Chen!"

    Ling Chen was both Immortal and mortal. With this realization, his heart swelled with a sense of grandeur.

    "The path to the heavens begins with revenge! Oveing this heart demon, what can the heavens and earth do to stop me?" Ling Chen smiled proudly, gripping the nine-colored Sword Soul in one hand and shing towards Qin Luo. What appeared to be a casual strike was in fact a blow of devastating might!

    The nine-colored divine sword cleaved a rainbow-like brilliance through the air. Where the sword light passed, the void itself cracked open, creating a 30-meter-wide spatial rift that stretched all the way to Qin Luo''s forehead!

    "Huh?" Qin Luo was caught off guard.

    <em>SLASH! </em>In the next instant, his body was bisected by the spatial rift; he was torn in two without even a chance to scream.

    Qin Luo fell dead on the spot! And just like that, the spatial rift closed, leaving behind only two halves of a body as if nothing had happened.

    In the ensuing silence, Ling Chen sheathed his sword, his demeanor as elegant as an orchid, and stepped off the battle tform.

    "WOOOOAH!"

    The thunderous sound of cheering erupted at that moment. The crowd watched Ling Chen with feverish eyes, as if weing their Sword Emperor.

    "That strike was too cool!"

    "He''s only in the Awakened Emperor Realm. Yet, he ripped open the fabric of space with a single sword strike. What kind of godly technique was that?"

    "A 30-meter rift! Even the Sword Warden might not be capable of that, right?"

    The power of the sword was one thing, but tearing open a rift in space was quite another. This one strike had profoundly shaken the Sword Ruins.

    Even many Peak Masters and Supreme Adjudicators were left with twitching eyelids.

    Compared to Yun Xiao''s imperfections, Ling Chen seemed too perfect!

    "There''s no need to contest the Immortal Sword Rankings anymore. Exile Ling has decided the fate of the heavens with one stroke! Yun Short is a goner!" a disciple cried out. Then he quickly coughed and added, "Don''t get me wrong! I''m just talking about buddy Yun Short, not Exile Yun!"

    Immediately, a wave ofughter swept the crowd.

    People couldn''t help but cast their eyes toward the viewing tower where Yun Xiao was, wondering what his expression might be at this moment. Nervous? Exposed? Scared?

    "True and false, it''s obvious which is which when the two are put to the test!"

    As for Qin Luo, although he was Ling Chen''s lifelong nemesis, now he was nothing more than an appetizer before the main event.

    "Overseer Zhang Mu!" A young girl dressed in blue in the crowd suddenly asked with a teasing tone, "Since Exile Ling''s first round was solo, and Exile Yun is also taking part in the Immortal Sword Rankings, will we also get to witness something just as spectacr from him?"

    "Ku Xue?" Zhang Mu nced at her, then at the schedule. "Exile Yun''s first opponent happens to be you."

    Ku Xue herself was taken aback. What a coincidence! Her lips curled into a slight smile. Without waiting for a response, she soared up with her Sovereign Sword and gentlynded on the battle tform, her face beaming with a smile towards a certain viewing tower.

    Upon entering the tform, Ku Xue said nothing, but her challenging intent was crystal clear.

    "Ku Xue, way to go!"

    "Who says women are inferior to men!"

    "She''s got real guts!"

    "It''s time to show that demon spawn what our Sword Ruins talents are made of..."

    A disciple identally blurted out the taboo word and scared himself pale, quickly looking around as if expecting to be censored. But no one came to silence him

    So, the crowd gradually grew more bold.

    "Exile Yun! Exile Yun!" Young Sword Cultivators called out for Yun Xiao, but their voices wereced not with fervor, but with tant provocation!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>As expected, a figure in lofty white robes descended gracefully from the high-rise. ck hair, bright eyes, sword-like eyebrows, and starry gaze.

    Yun Xiao''s appearance was like an Immortal descending to the mortal realm. His mere presence and poise gradually silenced some of the jeers. As hended near the battle tform, Ling Chen approached him, smiling warmly. "Brother Yun."

    Yun Xiao nced at him and asked, "Did you orchestrate this demon spawn business?"

    Ling Chen was taken aback by his directness. "I was unaware of it," he replied, shaking his head.

    "We are rivals, yes, but let''s keep it dignified. This demon spawn charade is the Withered Bone Keeper''s doing. They serve you, so you should control your people," Yun Xiao stated.

    "Is that so? But are youmanding me?" Ling Chen''s gaze hardened, his tone authoritative yet not angry.

    This response immediately diminished Yun Xiao''s interest in further conversation.

    Amand? In a fairpetition, if Yun Xiao''s people had spread rumors like this, harming hundreds of innocents, he would''ve surely stopped it and apologized. But Ling Chen didn''t. Instead, he seemed irked by Yun Xiao''s tone.

    All this revealed that the Divine Sky Sword Emperor was inherently domineering, selfish, and impolite. He might acknowledge Yun Xiao''s talent but wouldn''t tolerate him overshadowing himself.

    Ling Chen had ignored a previous warning in the Sword Puppet Forest and had even forgotten a life debt...

    Yun Xiao nced at him and suddenly said with a coldugh, "No wonder you were betrayed."

    Ling Chen was visibly shaken by these words. "Who are you, really?!" As he spoke, sword energy surged in his eyes, a hint of killing intent emerging.

    "Guess?" Yun Xiao replied, then turned and stepped onto the battle tform.

    Their close-range conversation was inaudible to the spectators, but it was clear that the two Exiled Sword Immortals were confronting each other publicly for the first time.

    Excitement! That''s what the crowd craved, and they got it in spades.

    "Kill the demon spawn..."

    "Eradicate that cursed fiend!"

    Amid the noisy tumult, many muttered under their breath, seeking justice for the silenced disciples.

    As Yun Xiao ascended the battle tform, countless eyes were fixed on his white robe.

    "I am Ku Xue, Exile Yun," she began with feigned respect, but Yun Xiao didn''t even spare her a nce. Raising his hand, he delivered a swift sword strike.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A burst of azure light shot forth, tearing a spatial rift in the skyprecisely 31 meters long, a meter longer than the rift Ling Chen had created!

    <em>POOF! </em>The rift instantly swallowed Ku Xue up, grinding her into a mist of blood, which exploded and settled neatly on the ground in a grislyyer of flesh and bone dust.

    Bones scattered to one side, blood to the other. From above, these remnants formed a crimson and ghastly white Taiji symbol.

    "Heh," Yun Xiao chuckled, ncing back at Ling Chen. In a sh, he ascended with his Sovereign Sword and returned to the viewing tower.

    "What?" Ling Chen sucked in a cold breath. He clenched his fists tightly, blood vessels pulsing in his eyes as he stared at the Yin-Yang pattern of blood and bone on the tform.

    On another viewing tower, the Withered Bone Keeper and Ku Xuan stood up, their faces ashen as they beheld the Taiji symbol and the slowly healing rift in space.

    A million people were motionless, a deafening silence enveloping the scene.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 269: Worldview Collapsing!

    Chapter 269: Worldview Copsing!

    <em>VROOM! </em>Two Sword Souls, each enveloped in 10,000yers of Sword Aura, raced through the skies, whistling between the clouds.

    Yun Xiao, with his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, stirred up a storm of sword energy, creating a sea of azure in the heavens. He seemed to walk upon the clouds themselves, leaving a tempest in his wake.

    The Sword Warden, on the other hand, trod upon the void itself, invisible Sword Soul leading the way,manding the winds as he went!

    At this moment, Yun Xiao, having just forged a 10,000yer Sword Aura, was in a rather good mood. If it were the old him, he would have devoured all the Azure Phoenixes in the Azure Phoenix Tower. But today, he had refrained. There was only one reason. Back in the Sea of Swords, he was surrounded by enemies. There was pretty much no one he could trust. But here in the Sword Ruins, the Sword Wardens family had treated him well. He naturally wanted to show some grace and maintain a bit of human decency by not being overly greedy.

    However, little did Yun Xiao know that rumors were already spreading through the Sword Ruins that he was a greedy, destructive demon spawn Had he heard these whispers earlier, he might have swallowed the Azure Phoenix Tower whole!

    Yun Xiao''s current destination with the Sword Warden was a ce called the Blood Crystal Pool. Given its name, it surely had something to do with the Blood Crystal Sword Rings!

    The Sword Ruins have a clear rule: the older generation are not to leave behind a Sword Heart. So, these things are quite rare. Ill need to ask someone to look for some, the Sword Warden said to Yun Xiao as they journeyed on the wind.

    Not leave behind a Sword Heart? Why? Yun Xiao asked, surprised. In the Heavenly Realm, almost every Sword Cultivator left behind their Sword Heart! And yet, in the Sword Ruins, this sacrednd of swordsmanship, such an important relic was not kept?

    The Sword Heart is too much of a hassle! It''s better not to bother with it. Let the old pass away in peace Life is for living freely, not for leaving debts to your descendants, right? If one person leaves a Sword Heart, others will fear for their descendants being harmed by it, and theyll all start leaving them. If that happens, everyone ends up worse off. Why bother? So, from ancient times, the Sword Ruins have forbidden leaving behind Sword Hearts, giving the old a peaceful rest, the Sword Warden exined earnestly.

    This reasoning actually convinced Yun Xiao. But he knew the real reason. It all came down to the fact that the Eternal Sword Prison was powerful!

    The Sword Cultivators in the Heavenly Realm had been on the very brink of extinction. With their survival at stake, who wouldn''t want to leave some protection for their descendants? There was no luxury to think of a peaceful rest.

    With that, Yun Xiao decided to set aside the matter of the Sword Hearts.

    Got the Sword Aura. Now, just gotta pair it with some Sword Rings, and Ill be all set, Yun Xiao muttered.

    Sure enough, his journey to the Blood Crystal Pool was to upgrade his Sword Rings!

    "By the way, Exile Yun Xiao, how many Sword Rings can your Sword Soul amodate?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "Is that important?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s rted to the grade of the Sword Soul, so yes, it''s important," the Sword Warden replied with a smile.

    "How many Sword Rings can you amodate?" Yun Xiao answered with another question.

    "Six!" the Sword Warden dered.

    "So, is your Sword Soul at the eleventh or twelfth grade?" Yun Xiao asked, curious.

    "Obviously, the eleventh. A Sword Soul at the twelfth grade hasn''t been seen in the Nine Hells for at least three thousand years," the Sword Warden said, a hint of longing in his voice.

    Yun Xiao nodded in understanding, then asked, "The highest grade for Sword Cultivators in the Divine Continent is Gxy grade. Could you enlighten me on how to distinguish the grades, pills, magic treasures, sword techniques, and daoist spells starting from the eighth grade?"

    "Oh?" The Sword Warden found that Yun Xiao was truly a mortal through and through.

    It appeared the rumors of him being a fake reincarnated Immortal were not too far off from the truth. Ling Chen would have never asked such questions. But Yun Xiao had shown off his heaven-defying talent twice in a row. So, the Sword Warden didn''t mind exining.

    "Your Divine Continent''s grading system is called the Lower Seven Grades, also known as the Seven Celestial Bodies. Above that in a fully formed world like the Nine Hells are the Upper Seven Grades.

    "Upper Seven Grades?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow slightly. So, the Sword Warden''s Sword Soul was in the eleventh grade. And in the hierarchy of Sword Souls, the upper limit was fourteen?

    "Correct, the Upper Seven Grades, known as the Yin Yang Five Elements. From lowest to highest, they are Aqua, Terra, Silva, Igni, Aurum, Yin, and Yang!"

    "Tell me more."

    "On the journey of cultivation, the first step beyond the Eight Mortal Realms is the Dao Heart Realm. Likewise, above the Seven Celestial Bodies of the Lower Seven Grades are the Ying Yang Five Elements of the Upper Seven Grades.

    "As for the differences let''s see. Well,pared to the owner of a Gxy grade Sword Soul, a Sword Cultivator with an Aqua grade Sword Soul will have an even easier time entering the Dao Heart Realm!

    "And one notch above that is the Terra grade. A Terra grade Sword Soul can handle up to five Sword Rings! You can typically see this grade of Sword Soul in Peak Masters and Supreme Adjudicators," the Sword Warden borated.

    Yun Xiao got the rough idea, but there was one thing bugging him. Eight Mortal Realms and Seven Celestial Bodies, the two didn''t match up. As a consequence, the Saint Realm and Awakened Emperor Realm were both limited to Gxy grade.

    Gu Baiyi also had five Sword Rings, an indication that he was a talented individual among the Sword Judges.

    "So what grade would the Taiji Sword Art and Wuji Dao Art of the two Gongshu ancestors be?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Upper Silva grade! These two self-created techniques rank among the pinnacle of ability in the Nine Hells." The Sword Warden signed in admiration. "Though I''ve mastered stronger sword techniques, I doubt I could create my own even at the Lower Silva grade!"

    In summary, the eighth grade, Aqua, allowed for four Sword Rings just like the Gxy grade. The ninth and tenth grades, Terra and Silva, allowed for five Sword Rings. And the Sword Warden''s Sword Soul, with six Sword Rings, belonged in the eleventh gradeIgnis!

    "And beyond that are the Ignis, Aurum, Yin, and Yang grades. Anything broaching these four grades is exceptionally rare. Especially thest three! Be it Sword Souls, Life Symbols, pills, magic treasures, daoist spells, or sword techniques an item at that level exists only in legends in the Nine Hells!" the Sword Warden said, deeply moved.

    "I see." Yun Xiao nodded, satisfied.

    "So, back to the earlier question, Exile Yun. How many Sword Rings can your Sword Soul amodate?" the Sword Warden asked curiously.

    Yun Xiao stopped and transformed his Sovereign Sword to a Palm Sword. His five Sword Rings and 10,001yers of Sword Aura became more visible!

    Of course, the Sword Warden didn''t believe for a second that five Sword Rings was Yun Xiao''s limit.

    "Just hand me a few Sword Rings, I''ll give it a try," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "A few?" The Sword Warden had an uneasy feeling, pulling out several Demon Heart Sword Rings from his Bag of Holding. For a test, there was no need for anything too fancy.

    "Add one and see," the Sword Warden suggested.

    For Sword Cultivators, being able to add just one more Sword Ring meant a monumental change, signifying a leap across two grades! It was the difference between a Peak Master and a Sword Warden!

    "Sure." Without a word, Yun Xiao added a sixth Blood Crystal Sword Ring.

    "Whoa?" the Sword Warden murmured, trying to maintain his calm. He''d expected this, but he was still inwardly shaken seeing Yun Xiao''s number of Sword Rings equal his own.

    "Time for another." Yun Xiao effortlessly added the seventh Sword Ring.

    "Whoa..." The Sword Warden gasped, his facade quickly crumbling. Even for him, the sight of those seven gleaming Sword Rings left him awestruck.

    "Yin or Yang grade, the stuff of legends, the kind that ensures ascension to true immortality..." the Sword Warden said, aplicated look on his face. He was doubtful about Yun Xiao being a true Immortal in a past life. However, he was certain that Yun Xiao was destined to be one in this life!

    Before the Sword Warden had even recovered from the shock

    "How about we go for another?" Yun Xiao said. With a snap, he casually slipped on the eighth Sword Ring. Like the Eight Immortals crossing the sea, each glowed with their unique demon magic.

    "Holy mother of" The Sword Warden was dumbstruck, his mouth agape.

    "Eight already, might as well make it a nine stars formation." Yun Xiao remarked before adding another. Nine Sword Rings, shining brightly, seemed to connect into a dazzling array.

    ".." The Sword Warden stood frozen in the sky, unmoving, steam practically rising from his head.

    "Let''s round it up!" Yun Xiao said. With another clear snap, he fitted the tenth Sword Ring.

    "UGHH!" The Warden''s eyes rolled back, struggling to catch his breath.

    "Let''s try adding another..."

    Just as Yun Xiao reached for another Sword Ring, the Sword Warden quickly grabbed his hand, pleading, "Stop! Exile Yun, please, no more!"

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "My worldview can''t handle your extravagance! My head''s about to burst. If you add another, my dao heart might copse," the Sword Warden said, on the verge of a mental breakdown.

    "..." Yun Xiao stared at him, speechless, before finally shrugging his shoulders. <em>Fine, I''ll spare you.</em>

    "Who the hell told me the Yang grade was the limit of talent? The end of the Immortal path? Fuck, we''re reaching the supposedly non-existent twentieth grade!" the Sword Warden muttered, staring at Yun Xiao like he was a freak of nature. He even began to wonder if the 100,000 resonances of the Eternal Sword were actually real.

    "What are you looking at?" Yun Xiao noticed his strange gaze and asked.

    "I''m wondering if killing you right here and now will bring divine retribution upon the Nine Hells, sting it to smithereens," the Sword Warden said with a mix ofughter and tears.

    "You can''t kill me," Yun Xiao said, his scrutinizing gaze sending a shiver down the Sword Warden''s spine.

    The Sword Warden finally grasped the true terror of Yun Xiao. The youth''s talent was boundless, and in theory, the only way to counter him would be to kill him early. But that was the problemhe couldn''t be killed! He was unkible! And those who crossed him would inevitably meet their doom. He was like an unsolvable riddle, a freak of cosmic nature!

    "Exile Yun, please don''t misunderstand, I was only joking," the Sword Warden said, hastily bowing, his body trembling. To be honest, he was scared. Since bing the Sword Warden, nothing in this world frightened him anymore. But at this moment, he felt a primal terror.

    "I know," Yun Xiao said, pursing his lips. "Senior Mu, don''t be nervous. You''re smarter than others, and that will lead to good oues."

    "Haha Thank you for your grace." The Sword Wardenughed awkwardly, letting out a sigh of relief. Inwardly, his heart was still shaking. Taking a deep breath, he continued, "Exile Yun, I''ve seen and heard of many things in my life. I''ve even read tales about all sorts of crazy, heaven-defying Immortals in my youth. But never in my life have Ie across an existence like you, one that shakes me to my very core. You must be the reincarnation of all creation in the myriad cosmos! Please ept a bow from this mere mortal!"

    "Erhm You''re wee, I guess?" Yun Xiao said, a little taken aback. Surprisingly, the Sword Warden had hit the nail on the head! Well, sort of at least!

    "But the irony is, I''m just a mortal soul who identally seized the body of the Creator Immortal..." He pondered internally, though these thoughts couldn''t be voiced.

    The Sword Warden finally managed to calm himself and said earnestly, "The Blood Crystal Pool has seven Hell Demon Sword Rings. I''ll tell Zhang Mu to give them all to you!"

    Just up ahead, the Blood Crystal Pool was in sight!

 Chapter 270: Zhang Mu, The Narcissist, Would Commit Fratricide to Steal his Brothers Wife!

    Chapter 270: Zhang Mu, The Narcissist, Would Commit Fratricide to Steal his Brother''s Wife!

    In the heart of the Azure Phoenix Tower, the air was thick with miasma, and at the center of it ally the Blood Crystal Pool, a gorey cauldron where the flesh and blood of demons were melded into one. The pool, more a bloody ocean than a pond, was shrouded in a bloody mist. Haunting wails of countless tormented spirits danced in the air, sending shivers down the spine of anyone who dared to approach.

    Yun Xiao and the Sword Warden descended gracefully upon this eerie scene,nding near the ominous pool. The disciples and elders of the Sword Ruins, having gathered enough Sword Merits, came here to exchange them for Blood Crystal Sword Rings, adding new might to their Sword Souls.

    The Sword Cultivators bowed deeply in respect as the Sword Warden and Yun Xiao approached.

    "Bring forth Zhang Mu," the Sword Wardenmanded.

    A middle-aged schr, dressed in a ck and white sword robe, emerged from the pool. He was the very picture of elegance and freedom, with an air of schrly refinement about him that felt like a breath of fresh spring air.

    "This is Zhang Mu, the guardian of the Blood Crystal Pool, my son-inw''s little brother and one of the youngest Overseers in the Sword Ruins," the Sword Warden introduced.

    The Sword Warden''s son-inw could only refer to Mu Dalong''s husband. Since Zhang Mu was the little brother of the son-inw, that meant he was family as well.

    "Greetings, Exile Yun," Zhang Mu said with a bow. "Your fame precedes you. I really thought I''d witnessed an Immortal descend when Iid eyes upon you! Your appearance and demeanor are unmatched, unseen in the whole of the Nine Hells!"

    Zhang Mu, in his youth, was famed as a handsome figure in the Eternal Sword Prison. Now, he was meeting someone who made him realize there were always higher mountains to climb, more extraordinary people to meet.

    Yun Xiao, having heard enough praise about his looks, simply smiled without a word.

    The Sword Warden, knowing Yun Xiao''s penchant for getting straight to the point, addressed the schr directly, "I remember the Blood Crystal Pool has seven Hell Demon Sword Rings, correct? Fetch them; Exile Yun needs them."

    "The Hell Demon Sword Rings?" Zhang Mu hesitated

    "Hmm? What''s the problem?" The Sword Warden''s brows furrowed coldly. He''d anticipated this reaction. He knew the Hell Demon Sword Rings were priceless treasures of the Sword Ruins. However, he''d already made a promise to Yun Xiao; he had no patience for dithering.

    "Sword Warden, it''s not that I''m unwilling, but..." Zhang Mu''s face was a portrait of frustration.

    "Out with it!"

    "When Exile Ling made the Eternal Sword hum nine times, the Withered Bone Keeper came here himself to retrieve those seven Hell Demon Sword Rings. I was just worrying about how to report this to you," Zhang Mu said with a tinge of regret.

    At this, both the Sword Warden and Yun Xiao fell silent. Their opponents had moved faster than they anticipated.

    Yun Xiao thought he had been swift in his journey, but Ling Chen had been quicker. It seemed the Withered Bone Keeper was more cunning than the Sword Warden.

    "My apologies, Exile Yun. I didn''t expect them to be so shameless," the Sword Warden said helplessly.

    "You don''t need to apologize; this was truly unexpected." Yun Xiao was initially irked but then shrugged it off. Sword Rings were just a bonus, easily reced. "Consider them a loan to Exile Ling, for now," he said calmly, epting the situation. There was no point in direct confrontation now.

    "We still have many Quasi-Hell Demon Sword Rings in the Blood Crystal Pool. They''re nearly as powerful. What do you think?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "If they''re not the best, they''re of no interest to me," Yun Xiao replied, hinting that he still had his eyes on the Sword Rings taken by Ling Chen.

    Zhang Mu caught the undercurrent of rivalry in the conversation and kept silent, slightly taken aback.

    "Exactly! With your 10,001yers of Sword Aura, you have the upper hand in the Immortal Sword Rankings, even without the support of demon magic. In fact, it''ll be more impressive when you win without the Sword Rings!" the Sword Warden said, recognizing Yun Xiao''s intentions and smiling approvingly.

    "Zhang Mu, next time, be bolder. If you''re asked for something, dy if you can. I''ll back you up if there''s trouble," the Sword Warden advised the middle-aged schr.

    Zhang Mu chuckled wryly. "Back then, who could have predicted that Sword Ruins would produce a second Exiled Sword Immortal?"

    "Indeed." The Sword Warden made no trouble for Zhang Mu. Instead, he simply gestured to Yun Xiao with a courteous "Please."

    "Let''s go!" Yun Xiao said.

    One old and one young, both decisive in their movements, suddenly took into the sky with their Sovereign Swords, soaring into the clouds and vanishing from sight.

    Zhang Mu watched them go, his eyes lingering on their disappearing figures. About half a quarter of an hourter, he too mounted his Sovereign Sword and took to the skies. However, his destination was not the Sword Ruins, but rather in the opposite direction.

    Soon, Zhang Mu gracefully descended before a somber, ck pcethe Exile Pce. At its entrance, a young boy knelt, his face as pale as a corpse, carrying the burden of a sword casket, living yet numb.

    Inside the Exile Pce, the continuous, heart-wrenching sobs of a woman echoed, unceasing and mournful.

    "Exile Ling, truly has a heart," Zhang Mu murmured with a hint of emotion, as he moved to the side.

    There, under a pavilion, sat three Overseers sipping teaKu Xuan, Feng Buhui, and Yun Xinghe. Shuang Jiang, naturally, was busy safeguarding Ling Chen. Given that Bai Qingxue was currently stronger than him, someone needed to keep a close watch on her; a job certainly not fit for a man.

    In the pavilion, the three Overseers enjoyed their tea, a silent acknowledgment that they were one short.

    Zhang Mu, familiar with the ritual, took the vacant seat. From his Pouch of Holding, he produced a bundle of cloth, cing it beside Ku Xuan''s teacup.

    "What''s in here?" Ku Xuan asked, narrowing his eyes as he looked up at Zhang Mu.

    "Seven Hell Demon Sword Rings," Zhang Mu replied, a self-satisfied smile ying on his lips. "The Sword Warden came to the Blood Crystal Pool with Exile Yun, to ask for them, but I told him that Exile Ling had already taken them."

    "Oh?" The other three Overseers exchanged nces, a smile slowly forming on their lips.

    "Zhang Mu, you''ve done well," Ku Xuan praised, then turning to Feng Buhui and Yun Xinghe, he added, "Didn''t I tell you? With Zhang Mu around, Exile Ling, need not bother going to the Blood Crystal Pool. He can just enjoy his blessings right here."

    "Brilliant!" Feng Buhui and Yun Xinghe couldn''t help butugh, their eyes gleaming with delight.

    "The finest Sword Rings, paired with the strongest Sword Soul, are like a hero matched with a beauty," Zhang Mu said with a meaningful smile.

    "True enough." Ku Xuan gently patted his shoulder, "You''ve done us a great service. We''ll speak highly of you to Exile Ling."

    "Thank you!" Zhang Mu stood up, bowing in gratitude.

    "No need for thanks," Ku Xuan sighed thoughtfully, then earnestly added, "Rest assured, you''ve made the right choice. No one will ever know how your brother really died."

    "And my sister-inw...?" Zhang Mu raised an eyebrow.

    "Don''t worry, she''s yours!" Ku Xuan chuckled, amused.

    Feng Buhui and Yun Xinghe, understanding the implication, burst intoughter.

    Perhaps prompted by theughter, the doors of the Exile Pce suddenly opened. Ling Chen, dressed impably, and Shuang Jiang, blushing faintly, emerged from the hall. Inside, Bai Qingxue was disheveled and distraught, her eyes vacant.

    "Exile Ling!" Everyone except Ku Xuan stood up, offering their seats to Ling Chen.

    Ling Chen took his seat as Shuang Jiang hurriedly poured tea, attending to him meticulously.

    "What''s the happy asion? I heardughter," Ling Chen asked, always behaving courteously in their presence. He lowered himself more than Yun Xiao would ever deign to.

    "Indeed, a joyous matter," Feng Buhui smiled.

    "A celebration for us, and a setback for the others," Yun Xinghe added.

    "Oh? Do tell," Ling Chen noticed a Bag of Holding on the stone table and smiled lightly.

    Ku Xuan, aware that Ling Chen needed some good news after his recent troubles at the Azure Phoenix Tower, introduced Zhang Mu and then recounted the story of the Hell Demon Sword Rings.

    Hearing this, Ling smiled knowingly and said to Zhang Mu, "Senior Zhang, you killed your own brother to try and steal his wife. You really are no saint."

    Zhang Mu''s heart skipped a beat. He quickly knelt, pleading, "This lowly onemitted a grave mistake during his youthful brashness. I beg for your mercy, Exile Ling!"

    "A grave mistake?" Ling chuckled softly, gesturing for Zhang Mu to rise. "Great deeds often require overlooking the trivial. The path of cultivation appears to be a journey of rity, free of desire. But in truth, desire is the root of seeking power. The strongest Immortals who lose their passions be hollow, caught by the Heavens, mere puppets in the control of the world. You follow your heart, doing what you wish, yearning for what you desire. You are a true seeker of the dao!"

    "Hmm?" Zhang Mu was momentarily stunned, looking at Ling Chen, with a dazed expression.

    "My side always wees those with ideas who dare to break the norms," Ling Chen said earnestly.

    Zhang Mu''s eyes burned with fervor, his voice deep and resonant, "I, Zhang Mu, wouldy down my life for Exile Ling!"

    The other Overseers couldn''t help but admire the young man''s devotion. Ling Chen''s maturity and unrestrained character were not typical of someone his age.

    "So, they rushed to the Blood Crystal Pool for these seven Hell Demon Sword Rings, and you fooled them, only to turn around and bring these treasures to me?" Ling Chen''s gaze fell on the Bag of Holding, his expression a mix of subtlety and delight.

    "Please, Exile Ling," Zhang Mu urged.

    "If that''s the case, then I shall ept it." Ling Chen picked up the Bag of Holding, reaching inside to grab one of the Sword Rings, effortlessly pulling it out. The Blood Crystal, no bigger than a soybean, suddenly ignited with a blue me as it appeared in the air.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>A fiery azure phoenix, wreathed in raging mes, soared out of the crystal! With a loud explosion, the mes surged, even setting the pavilion aze!

    "This is a true Azure Phoenix! Its demon magic, Azure Heaven ze, is like a vortex, scorching the heavens and earth with astonishing power!"

    Just one of these Blood Crystal Sword Rings was enough to make others green with envy. Even Ku Xuan couldn''t im a Hell Demon Sword Ring without sufficient reason and achievements, let alone seven at once!

    With an air of ease, Ling Chen attached the Sword Ring to the blue segment of his nine-colored Sword Soul, a perfect fit.

    "This is what it means to have a hero''s sword paired with a beauty''s ring," Ku Xuan remarked, eyes shining with admiration.

    Ling Chen, hearing this, smiled, thinking to himself, <em>More like a low level hero matched with a vige girl. I''ll use it and toss it aside when I''m done with it. </em>He kept these thoughts to himself, aware that these were treasures coveted by the Overseers of the Sword Ruins. Even Yun Xiao wanted them. But to the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, they were mere trinkets.

    "Exile Ling, I wonder how many Sword Rings your Sword Soul can amodate?"

    The question of the Sword Soul grade piqued everyone''s curiosity. As the Overseers awaited the unveiling of a miracle, a sense of anticipation mixed with tension filled the air.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 277: Character Assassination!

    Chapter 277: Character Assassination!

    "Ku Xue is dead!"

    This chilling scene swept through the battlefield like a cold wind. Over a million Sword Cultivators from the Sword Ruins, their eyes frozen like ice, stared unblinkingly at the Taiji Yin-Yang pattern formed from blood and bone powder on the battle tform.

    The howling wind seemed to pierce right into their very marrow!

    Ordinary Sword Cultivators had no idea about Yun Xiao''s situation in the Ancestral Sword Tomb. Had they known, the trembling in their hearts would have doubled.

    "At the Sword Baptism Ceremony, Exile Yun was at the Saint Realm. Ku Xue is in the Early Dao Heart Realm, and she couldn''t even withstand a single swordstroke from him!"

    Everyone''s gaze shifted from the battle tform to the viewing tower, but they couldn''t see that young man in white. He killed and left as if brushing dust off his sleeves, without a speck of blood on him.

    "The question is, how did Exile Yun use the same swordsmanship as Exile Ling?"

    Amidst the tingling of scalps, amon question arose in their minds.

    "Feng Ruolin and Ku Xue... After just entering the Sword Ruins, Exile Yun has already cut down two great beauties! Each death is more tragic than thest. Was he hurt by a beauty in the past? Why else would he be so ruthless?"

    After a moment of silence, various discussions slowly arose, the gazes of countless Sword Cultivators deep and cold.

    "In the Immortal Sword Ranking, it''s usually enough to just make contact. Exile Ling killed Qin Luo for revenge, but why did this demon spawn act so mercilessly, wiping out a genuine talent with such distinguished ancestors?"

    In the shadows, whispers cold as ice, buzzing like flies among the crowd, became impossible to ignore.

    However, it was clear to hear that the frequency of words like <em>fraud</em> and <em>pretender</em> had significantly decreased, while terms like <em>demon spawn</em>, <em>deceiver</em>, and <em>ruthless</em> dramatically increased.

    "Why does Exile Yun know your swordsmanship?" Ku Xuan quietly approached Ling Chen, his gaze deep as he asked.

    Ling Chen gazed at the blood-red Taiji pattern for a long time, calmly saying, "It can only mean that he and I share a connection, practicing the same path."

    "Is he tough to handle?" Ku Xuan asked. From the perspective of such a powerhouse as himself, that recent sword strike, which seemed to tear the heavens, appeared terrifying yet avoidable. Even a counterattack was possible. The sword technique, though mystical, couldn''t overwhelm the likes of him and the other Overseers.

    However, Overseers like him would never have a chance to confront Yun Xiao!

    "It''s fine." Ling Chen lowered his head, ncing at the nine-colored brilliance on his finger, "Even if he shares a simr origin with me, there are things I possess that he could never have. Such divine objects are even legends to me."

    Hearing this, Ku Xuan finally breathed a sigh of relief.

    "What about the Grove Essence Pills?" Ling Chen asked.

    "I''ve already ordered Du Zhongyuan to hurry up," Ku Xuan replied.

    "Once the pills are ready, bring them here directly. It''s rare to find an opponent this interesting. I should show some real skill too," Ling Chen said.

    "Understood!" Ku Xuan nodded profoundly, then after a moment of contemtion, he whispered in Ling Chen''s ear, "Exile Ling, your goal is to reach the top of the Immortal Sword Rankings, right?"

    "Yes." Ling Chen nodded calmly. He was a reborn Cosmic Immortal, carrying memories of his past life. If he couldn''t even conquer the sword sects of this little world, let alone im the first spot, where would the glory of his rebirth be?

    Ling Chen harbored a sky-high spirit in his chest! It was a spirit of vengeance!

    "Then, will you kill Exile Yun?" Ku Xuan quietly asked.

    Ling Chen paused for a moment, scrutinizing Ku Xuan. "Does it matter?"

    "It matters a lot!" Ku Xuan said earnestly, bowing slightly. "Forgive my frankness, but Exile Ling, you have a grand vision and have offered Yun Xiao a path ofpliance. Yet, this youngster not only shows no gratitude but constantly challenges you at the Sword Puppet Forest and Azure Phoenix Tower. He''s annoying as a buzzing fly, an ever-lingering shadow. Now, by killing Ku Xue, he''s openly defying you. Such a rebellious character, if not dealt with soon, might be a significant obstacle on your path to the heavens."

    "Heh." Ling Chen sneered, giving him a cold look. "Your stirring the pot like this is just because the demon spawn rumors you spread deeply offended him. Now, realizing his talent isn''tcking, fear grows in your heart, and you desperately wish I''d just eliminate him, freeing your Ku Family from worry."

    "Exile Ling, we are wholeheartedly devoted to you, ready to follow you to death!" Ku Xuan, left without a retort, could only forcefully pledge his loyalty.

    Ling Chen''s words had indeed hit the nail on the head.

    It was clear that the demon spawn rumors had ignited Yun Xiao''s fury. His killing of Ku Xue with a single sword strike was a disy meant for the Ku Family!

    The Withered Bone Keeper himself knew the Ku Family had lost any chance to switch sides to Yun Xiao. They could only subtly suggest to Ling Chen to eliminate this potential threat as soon as possible!

    The Ku Family was backed into a corner with no way out.

    "However, you are right about one thing. This kid isn''t content being a subordinate under me; he wants to stand beside me, even surpass me," Ling Chen said, his gaze deep and turbulent.

    From the Sword Aura, Sword Rings, to the Grove Essence Pills, Ling Chen constantly felt Yun Xiaopeting with him for resources, obstructing his path of vengeance and ascension!

    "He also goes around saying he once saved your life, trying to paint you as ungrateful," Ku Xuan added somberly.

    "Here you go again, trying to be clever and sow discord," Ling Chen shot him a cold nce.

    "I dare not!" Ku Xuan quickly bowed his head, his face tense. But inside, he smiled. Because he sensed the unbearable urge to kill emanating from Exile Ling. And this murderous intent, of course, wasn''t directed at him.

    "Not a lifesaver, not a subordinate, but a destined adversary?" Ling Chen looked up at the battle tform, the red-white Taiji pattern a severe provocation.

    "Perhaps there was a moment when we could have been friends. Sadly, our paths differ, and our goals do not align." In Ling Chen''s cold eyes, strands of sword energy began to emerge.

    "Exile Ling, shall I continue instructing others to spread rumors about the demon spawn''s brutality and ugliness?" Ku Xuan asked in a hushed tone.

    Ling Chen stood in the wind, neither agreeing nor objecting.

    In the viewing tower, Yun Xiao was sitting cross-legged on the ground, with Mu Dalong standing beside him, holding a jug of Golden Springs Wine.

    "I''ve got a few things going for me" Yun Xiao mused, scratching his chin. "I picked up the Hundred Scales Dantian, solving my bottleneck problem for now. I have the enormous advantage of 10,001yers of Sword Aura. Finally, I have the Taiji Sword Dao and Divine Sky Sword Dao. Defeating an opponent an entire realm above me should be no issue."

    In terms of Sword Aura and swordsmanship, Yun Xiao far surpassed Ku Xue. Even if she was stronger than him, she couldn''t escape the fate of being instantly in.

    "However, to reach the top of the Immortal Sword Rankings today, my current strength is still insufficient," Yun Xiao concluded. The one-hour rest time between each round ofbat was crucial!

    While regr disciples of the Sword Ruins spent years honing their swords for the Immortal Sword Rankings, Yun Xiao needed only to hone his sword on the very day, breaking through while fighting!

    "To climb higher, the Hundred Scales Dantian alone isn''t enough. Among these four thousand participants, at least three thousand possess Seeds of Creation. Moving forward, even if I have to kill, I need to leave some bodies."

    These ordinary Seeds of Creation, though not as exceptional as Ling Chen''s, were still valuable and could not be wasted, providing significant transitional benefits.

    After all, Moon Fairy had absorbed hundreds of Seeds of Creation by now.

    "Exile Yun..." Mu Dalong suddenly called out in a low voice.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "In the Immortal Sword Rankings duel, the focus is on sparring. Unless there''s a deep grudge, it''s generally frowned upon to kill. Otherwise, it might bring further criticism to your reputation," Mu Dalong expressed her concern.

    "I''ve been ndered to such an extent, even involving my mother. Do you think I still care about reputation?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    At a loss for words, Mu Dalong could only offerfort, "Insulting one''s mother is indeed despicable."

    That was the real reason for Yun Xiao''s annoyance. His parents might have passed away early, but in his eyes, they were great and sacred, a pure memory deep in his heart.

    Yun Xiao''s father exhausted his mind for the Cloud Nation. His mother managed the household and raised him with constant teachings, never forgotten.

    "The ability of these people to create rumors is truly remarkable. I''m not even from your Nine Hells, yet they fabricated a whole hometown for me. It''s outrageous. And so many believe it, absolutely ridiculous," Yun Xiao muttered.

    Once Yun Xiao grasped this truth, he knew that in the face of such character assassination, defending himself or backing down was pointless.

    Why fear the crooked paths when your sword was straight and true?

    "Are you nning to face off against Exile Ling in a life-or-death battle?" Mu Dalong suddenly asked.

    "Not today," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Why not?"

    "He''s not ripe enough yet."

    "Oh." Mu Dalong nodded, somewhat befuddled by this response. Unlike her father, she wasn''t as convinced and harbored some worries for Yun Xiao. It wasn''t a matter of trust, but during their brief time together, she had grown fond of this <em>clean,</em><em>pure</em>, and <em>proper</em> young man.

    And with fondnesses concern.

    The Immortal Sword Rankings had officially kicked off!

    In the first round, aside from Yun Xiao and Ling Chen, over four thousand people engaged in duels of swordsmanship simultaneously!

    Yun Xiao, watching from a high vantage point, found the scene truly spectacr. Four thousand talented Sword Cultivators, all above the Awakened Emperor Realm, and many in the Dao Heart Realm!

    These new generations of the Sword Ruins were strong inbat, with many young Sword Cultivators stronger than Ku Xue and Qin Luo in the Early Dao Heart Realm.

    Each roundsted an hour! Whoever defeated their opponent first got to rest and prepare for the next round!

    By the second round, Yun Xiao and Ling Chen joined the fray once more. But by then, thepetition had thinned, halving to just over two thousandpetitors. These were top-tier Sword Cultivators.

    After facing opponents like Qin Luo and Ku Xue, the subsequent rounds against Awakened Emperor Realm opponents posed no difficulty for Yun Xiao or Ling Chen.

    In the blink of an eye, half a day passed!

    Half of the twelve rounds of the Immortal Sword Rankingspetition were over.

    Including Ku Xue, Yun Xiao had already defeated six opponents.

    These opponents were young and timid. So, Yun Xiao simply knocked them out.

    "Clearly a viin, yet pretending to be virtuous?"

    After the sixth round, the whispers and gossip almost made Yun Xiao''s nostrils re with irritation.

    Ling Chen, who''d held himself back, was hailed as a natural saint. Meanwhile, when Yun Xiao did the same thing himself, he was used of pretending?

    "People, once their opinions are set, can''t make objective judgments." Yun Xiao clicked his tongue.

    It was normal, yet frustrating.

    Fortunately, Blue Star finally came through, hurriedly delivering to Yun Xiao the first batch of upgraded Heavenly Dao Sariras refined from the Immortal Jades.

    Looking down from the viewing tower, Yun Xiao noticed that Ling Chen had stopped ying the role of the people''s champion by staying on the ground floor, likely retreating to a secluded spot to prepare for the final rounds.

    "Mid Awakened Emperor Realm." Yun Xiao sighed. With the upgraded Heavenly Dao Sariras, breaking through the Eight Mortal Realms was as simple as breathing.

    Yun Xiao could clearly feel that hisprehension and other aspects were much stronger than during his time in Azure Spirit.

    Blue Star exined this as a gradual awakening of the Creator Immortal''s abilities. Moreover, these abilities would continue to grow in the future, bing even more exaggerated.

    "If only my cultivation could skyrocket like this," Yun Xiao remarked in a joking tone.

    "That''s not possible. Stages are the bridges of all things. If you soar hundreds of stages at once, the whole Dao Realm will see you," Blue Star replied.

    "Creator, as you progress, you''ll probably have to suppress your breakthrough speed to hide the Creator Immortal''s abilities." Red Moon chuckled.

    "Suppress it?" Yun Xiao was a bit dizzy. While others struggled to ascend, he had to work hard to hold himself back? He shook his head. "''I''ll cross that bridge when I get there."

    FInally, the Immortal Sword Rankings entered itstter half, with the seventh round about to begin!

    Out of 4,096 talented Sword Cultivators, only 64 remained! This round would reduce that number to 32!

    Those who remained were mostly in the Dao Heart Realm!

    The real challenging battles were about to begin.

 Chapter 278: At My Arrival in the Sword Ruins, I Slew Three Beauties!

    Chapter 278: At My Arrival in the Sword Ruins, I Slew Three Beauties!

    "Senior Sister Sikong." Ling Chen gazed at the woman before him, ethereal as a fairy, his heart adrift in a daze. He was increasingly aware of how the memories of the Ling Family''s fallen son deeply affected his heart.

    Sikong Yan, the very woman Ling Chen once admired! Once, she had rescued him from dire straits, her otherworldly elegance etched in the youth''s mind, haunting his dreams.

    Now, the fallen son transformed into an Exiled Sword Immortal, and there she stood, a Sword Cultivator of celestial grace, her presence demure and respectful, exuding a gentle femininity.

    "In a past life, consumed with strife, I neglected the beauty of worldly ties. The admiration of a heart newly awakened is unforgettable and deep!" Ling Chen muttered to himself.

    Sikong Yan''s radiant beauty was not just etched into the heart of the mortal Ling Chen. Now, the Divine Sky Sword Emperor had also fallen for her, his heart stirring with delight.

    After venting his years of pent-up anger on Bai Qingxue, Ling Chen had regained his sanity. He found the purity and transcendence of a Sword Cultivator like Sikong Yan far more elegant.

    "Exile Ling." Sikong Yan bowed slightly, a soft smile on her lips, cheeks faintly flushed.

    "After the Immortal Sword Rankings, shall I take you to the folded world to behold the earthly sights?" Ling Chen asked with a smile.

    "Ah, yes." Sikong Yan''s eyes shimmered, cheeks aglow, a vision of stunning beauty.

    Upon agreeing, a hint of worry flickered in her eyes, "But my next opponent is the unruly Exile Yun... I fear I may not be fortunate enough to apany you to the mortal realm."

    The first round of the Immortal Sword Rankings was prearranged, but the subsequent matchups were uncertain.

    "It''s fine. You have no feud with him. Just avoid provocation, and you''ll be safe," Ling Chen assured.

    "By choosing peace, will that demon spawn spare me?" Sikong Yan asked nervously, biting her lip.

    "He wouldn''t dare harm you," Ling Chen said, looking at her. In truth, he knew it wasn''t a matter of Yun Xiao not daring, but rather not willing. His fearsome reputation was more a dark fabrication of the Withered Bone Keeper, not reality.

    When the two first met, Ling Chen even mistook Yun Xiao for a saint...

    inly put, Ling Chen knew Yun Xiao''s true nature better than anyone. But he kept silent.

    "Alright! Then I''m relieved." Sikong Yan breathed a sigh of relief.

    "Senior Sister Sikong, are you in the Mid Dao Heart Realm?" Ling Chen suddenly asked.

    "Yes," Sikong Yan nodded.

    "You''re worrying too much," Ling Chen said, a hint of encouragement in his voice. "His techniques areplex, his Sword Aura formidable, but his strength isn''t on par with yours. Just avoid shing directly with him."

    "Understood," Sikong Yan nodded obediently, well aware of her own capabilities. Her act of feigned weakness in front of Ling Chen was merely to stir his protective instincts and bridge their rtionship.

    As the conversation turned, the seventh round of the Immortal Sword Rangs kicked off! A total of 64 talented Sword Cultivators ascended onto 32 battle tforms. The chaoticpetition had evolved into a battle of elites. All 64 participants were True Disciples or higher, most of them Supreme Disciples.

    Among these shes of geniuses, any round featuring the two Exiled Sword Immortals, especially the matchup between Yun Xiao and Sikong Yan, was the absolute center of attention.

    Atop a high tower, the Withered Bone Keeper and Overseer Sikong, serving him, watched with intense scrutiny.

    "Old Sword Warden, do you think my granddaughter can gauge Yun Xiao''s depth?" Overseer Sikong asked in a somber tone.

    "We''ll see," the Withered Bone Keeper replied, his voice even and calm.

    Overseer Sikong saw his granddaughter as a key figure in their Sikong Family ingratiating themselves with Ling Chen. Naturally, he was anxious.

    "If Lil Yan can eliminate the Exiled Sword Immortal, it would be a glorious achievement, skyrocketing her status and making her worthy of Exile Ling in public opinion," Overseer Sikong mused, his hopes rising. Then, he turned to the Withered Bone Keeper and asked, "By the way, didn''t you say a distinguished guest was arriving today?"

    The Withered Bone Keeper nced into the distance, his ears perking up slightly. His dry lips twitched as he said, "They''re almost here."

    Overseer Sikong''s eyes lit up with anticipation.

    Meanwhile, on one of the 32 battle tforms, Sikong Yan faced Yun Xiao, while Ling Chen, on a nearby tform, was up against another Mid Dao Heart Realm opponent.

    "Exile Yun, I hope you won''t take offense at my boldness," Sikong Yan said with a soft smile, her tone exceptionally gentle.

    Such courteous words would bring a smile to any man''s face. However, Yun Xiao noticed that upon her entrance, numerous young Sword Cultivators red at him, as if they were monitoring and judging him.

    "What''s your name?" Yun Xiao asked.

    The girl''s face tightened slightly. She had skipped introductions, hoping to fight without drawing animosity, all to gauge Yun Xiao''s capabilities for Ling Chen. But now, put on the spot, her pride won over her caution, "I am Sikong Yan."

    "Is the Overseer Sikong your rtive?" Yun Xiao probed further. His question sent a chill through the young Sword Cultivators watching their tform.

    "Exile Yun, he is my grandfather," Sikong Yan replied, her voice quivering slightly. Even in the face of Yun Xiao''s imposing, yet calm demeanor, her pride and fear wrestled, neither gaining the upper hand. Finally, recalling Ling Chen''s words, she braced herself for the fight.

    "Alright, make your move," Yun Xiao said, not pressing further, his gaze fixed on Sikong Yan.

    The Sword Cultivators around were restless with anticipation. Could he defeat Sikong Yan? And if he did, would he go as far as to kill her?

    "Then, I shall humbly demonstrate my skills, and I hope for Exile Yun''s understanding," Sikong Yan said, as her Sword Soul transformed into a three-foot azure de.

    It was an azure Sword Soul simr to Yun Xiao''s, wrapped with five Sword Rings. Each one embodied the elements of wind, fire, thunder, ice, and metal, manifesting as five differently colored flying birds circling the de, which was further enhanced by a staggering 2,000yers of Sword Aura.

    This was the Silva grade Azure Blue Sword Soul, known for its swiftness.

    Sikong Yan had already developed her Sword Intent, which, within her Sword Soul, manifested as a blooming blue peony.

    The Azure Blue Sword Soul was adorned with ayer of petal patterns, under which the 2,000yers of Sword Aura seemed even more unified, their lethality magnified.

    Under the guidance of her Sword Intent, a storm of azure, like a furious dragon, swirled around Sikong Yan, billowing her skirt and hair, adding to her ethereal allure.

    In terms of demeanor and appearance, she truly surpassed Feng Ruolin and Ku Xue.

    "Sikong Yan is breathtaking!"

    "She''s only sixteen. In two more years, she could make it to the top ten of the Immortal Sword Rankings!"

    Whispers of admiration quietly reached Yun Xiao''s ears.

    "I''ve heard she has a special bond with Exile Ling."

    "Both talented and beautiful, a story worth telling..."

    These envious murmurs also found their way to him. The public''s fascination with such matters was hard to hide.

    This was the kind of public sentiment that would normally delight Sikong Yan, but at that moment, it caused a slight jolt in her heart. Yet, the arrow was already on the bowstring!

    "Exile Ling said my strength surpasses his!" Sikong Yan steeled herself internally, maintaining a soft, beautiful smile. Her swordy, like a dance in the wind, suddenly lunged towards Yun Xiao!

    <em>Palm Sword Technique, Azure Leaf Sword Waltz!</em>

    This was one of the top techniques from the Sword Ruins, known as the waltz of death.

    As Sikong Yan wielded her sword, she seemed like a flurry of azure leaves swirling in the wind, the sword moving with her dance, as if trapping Yun Xiao in a bamboo forest. It was both a mesmerizing and deadly disy!

    With one stroke, Yun Xiao was trapped!

    "Exile Yun seems to be at a disadvantage!"

    Just as this thought emerged in the minds of the onlookers, Yun Xiao made his move!

    With a graceful sweep of his left hand and a swift flick of his right, Yun Xiao''s movements flowed like water. His left hand''s delicate gesture summoned two invisible waves of energy, which under his control, spiraled into a 300-meter invisible vortex, rampaging forward!

    With a hum, this spinning vortex struck Sikong Yan, her figure, sword, and azure leaves caught in a tumultuous sea. Her swordy was instantly torn to shreds!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a cry of shock, the girl and her Sword Soul were flung like a kite, crashing against the battle tform''s magic barrier, erupting in a muffled roar.

    Sikong Yan spat a mouthful of ck blood, her body sliding down like a broken doll, her face ashen.

    "The Wuji Dao Art..." Even she recognized it! There were few pure daoist spells in the Sword Ruins, and the Wuji Dao Art from Gongshu Dao was among them. It was a spatial spell.

    With one daoist spell, Yun Xiao had subdued a Mid Dao Heart Realm Sword Cultivator!

    "I''ve lost," Sikong Yan admitted to herself, feeling a tinge of disappointment.

    But just then, angry shouts erupted around her.

    "Don''t kill!"

    "Demon spawn, stop!"

    Sikong Yan felt a sudden chill, her mind going nk. She rememberedYun Xiao had attacked with both hands! The left with the Wuji Dao Art, the right with a Flying Sword!

    "What?" As she stood up, soaked in sweat, it was as if she''d been struck by a bolt of lightning. Before her eyes was a sight that made her tremble!

    Yun Xiao''s azure Flying Sword spun in the air, tracing a Taiji symbol, like two Yin-Yang fish converging towards her!

    <em>Flying Sword Technique, Taiji Flying Fish!</em>

    This was ancestor Gongshu Jian''s signature sword technique. However, it was slightly different from what was described. When the Taiji Flying Fish passed, space itself rippled like the surface of ake.

    Sikong Yan felt as if she were at the bottom of thiske, her body immobilized, mped tight by these watery forces. "Uh..." Her eyes went wide in shock, unable tounch a counterattack.

    Finally, an azure light shadow had already pierced through the center of her forehead!

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>A bloody hole opened in her brow. The azure Taiji Flying Fish swiftly circled back, returning to Yun Xiao''s hand.

    One palm, one swordkilling was that simple!

    After the deed, Yun Xiao, indifferent to his surroundings, probed Sikong Yan''s abdomen, extracting the Seed of Creation talent from her meridians. Taskpleted, he turned and walked off the tform, silent, drifting away.

    Meanwhile, on the adjacent tform, Ling Chen had just unleashed his own signature technique, Vast Sky, creating spatial ripples to defeat his opponent without causing fundamental harm.

    Both Yun Xiao and Ling Cheng''s Flying Swords struck almost simultaneously. But to those observing from a higher vantage point, the differences were stark. Ling Chen''s Vast Sky was somewhat monotonous, while Yun Xiao''s sword technique was a fusion of spatial distortion and Taiji rotation, almost like a form of art.

    Yet, this form of art had in a beauty!

    Ling Chen, having just won his duel, turned to see Sikong Yan from his memories, now fallen like a wilted flower. In that moment, his eyes turned as deep as an abyss.

    <em>THUD! </em>As the fallen beauty''s corpse softly fell, at least 100,000 young men''s eyes suddenly filled with blood!

    "Demon spawn!"

    "Murderous fiend!!"

    Unable to hold back any longer, they bellowed their disdain, their roars echoing loudly.

    Yun Xiao nced back at them and retorted with a single sentence, "All I see are 100,000 dumbasses."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 279: With a Sharp Sword, Carry Out the Will of the Heavens!

    Chapter 279: With a Sharp Sword, Carry Out the Will of the Heavens!

    The Sword Ruins were in an uproar! The three famed beauties, Feng Ruolin, Ku Xue, and Sikong Yan, had met their ends at the hands of Yun Xiao. The death of Sikong Yan, who had been nothing but amicable and courteous, was especially tragic.

    Her brutal ying set off a storm, akin to poking a ho''s nest, shattering the fragile hearts of countless on the Immortal Sword Ranking.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao was thoroughly cast in the role of a tyrannical demon king by the eyes of the public, elevated to a throne of infamy!

    All the young Sword Cultivators stared at him in disbelief! Had he not been an Exiled Sword Immortal, countless Flying Swords would have sought his life at that instant.

    A tidal wave of fury erupted like volcanoes, burning red-hot in the chests of countless young Sword Cultivators!

    Of course, a small minority chose silence, their eyes flickering withplicated emotions as they gazed upon Yun Xiao. They knew the demon spawn rumors had its puppeteers, and that some sought to push Yun Xiao to his demise. Yet, they never imagined he would retaliate so fiercely!

    Yun Xiao had to know he was in a precarious situation. Yet, he still killed without exnation!

    "This means he''s either truly brainless or he''s contemptuous of all these schemes."

    "Whether he''s mindless or arrogant depends on his strength."

    Weakness begot folly; strengthmanded respect!

    So, with this killing, the angry grew angrier; and the thoughtful fell silent, some even retreating quietly.

    "An Exiled Sword Immortal The revered reincarnation of a true Immortal above is now denounced as a demon spawn, a fiend, by tens of thousands. This whirlwind of propaganda has devoured all logic, plunging the Immortal Sword Ranking into a bloodbath!"

    After the seventh round, the top 32 emerged!

    The battles ahead were few.

    "In thepetition bracket, the upper half belongs to Exile Yun, and the lower half to Exile Ling. Now, with only 32 participants left, the uing matchups are bing predictable."

    "To reach the finals, Exile Yun must still first ovee two peak prodigies of the Sword Ruins!"

    All eyes fell on the two young men, who would likely be Yun Xiao''s next opponents in the quarterfinals and semifinals. With his ying of the three beauties, how would these young men react?

    One of the two prodigies was dressed in a gray robe. With thin lips and narrow eyes, he was none other than the bald, strangely bewitching Ku Xin.

    "Last year Ku Xin ced third in the Immortal Sword Rankings. He''s the top talent of the Ku family."

    "I heard he was also fairly close to Sikong Yan. Both his little sister, Ku Xue, and her fell to that demon spawn. If there''s still any justice in the world, we''ll see the two face off in the quarterfinals!"

    "Hopefully, Ku Xin will avenge them..."

    Countless hopeful and righteous gazes rested on Ku Xin.

    Beside Ku Xin stood another youth in a green robe. He appeared as refreshing as a breeze and bright as the moon, with a clear and bright face, fair as jade, his long hair tied up, exuding a carefree aura.

    The youth''s eyes, which were closely scrutinizing Yun Xiao, were profoundly deep. He embodied a pure swordsmanship spirit, his person sharp as a de, his voice equally cutting.

    Compared to the reserved and sinister Ku Xin, he seemed pure and righteous, with an iron-willed demeanor, earning a measure of respect from onlookers.

    "Ku Xin," the youth in green turned to his baldpanion, asking, "I sense that with each strike, he grows stronger. Are you sure you can handle him?"

    "Don''t worry," Ku Xin replied coolly, his eyes brimming with murderous intent.

    The youth in the green robe surveyed the seething crowd and said, "Well, the stage is already set. Everyone is wishing for nothing more than his death. Even if he''s an Exiled Sword Immortal, no one would question it."

    "A small constion, I suppose. Lil Yan and Xue''er''s deaths weren''t in vain," Ku Xin muttered, veins on his neck bulging, as he red at the high tform where Yun Xiao stood. "Just you wait, I won''t let this demon spawn live to the semifinals..."

    The young man in green pressed his lips together, his eyes too filled with murderous intent. "Ku Xin, are you sure our great-grandfather didn''t instruct us to throw the fight, to just hand this demon over to Exile Ling?" he asked gravely.

    "Yi Qingfan," Ku Xin gave him a deep look. "Today, it''s clear that this demon has the talent of an Exiled Sword Immortal, and he has indeed saved Exile Ling''s life. Exile Ling is a force beyond our control. If we let Yun Xiao into the finals, and Exile Ling shows mercy, we''d miss ourst two chances to kill this demon spawn."

    "Understood." The youth in green nodded icily.

    "After this demon spawn dies, even if Exile Ling is displeased, he''ll ultimately realize we''re helping him remove a major threat," Ku Xin said coldly.

    "Indeed... A genius is just that, a genius. No exceptions, not even for an Exiled Sword Immortal. If he''s killed, he''s gone," the youth in green remarked meaningfully.

    "One Exiled Sword Immortal is enough for the Eternal Sword Prison!" Ku Xin dered, then looked behind him. "Yi Qingfan, why hasn''t your master arrived yet?"

    "Probably dyed by something, but he should be here soon," the young man in green replied.

    "Will Die''ere too?" Ku Xin asked.

    "Yes." The young man in green smiled tenderly.

    "The two of you are a perfect couple, a match envied by mortals and gods alike." Ku Xin sighed softly.

    The young man in green sighed lightly. "Sadly, I heard that the Sword Warden doesn''t like Inscription Cultivators."

    Ku Xin''s expression suddenly turned fierce. "If the Sword Warden doesn''t like Inscription Cultivators, Exile Yun won''t either. So, better that they all die."

    "Late Awakened Emperor Realm," Yun Xiao remarked, cultivating atop his viewing tower.

    After several breaks in between rounds, Blue Star had deliveredor rather regurgitatedanother fresh batch of upgraded Heavenly Dao Sariras. So, he was able to advance another step.

    "Just two more stages to go, and I''ll be able to form my Dao Heart. Then, I''ll have transcended the Eight Mortal Realms!" Yun Xiao said.

    Once the Dao Heart was born, whether it''s the Sword Intent left by that Cosmic Immortal of the Supreme Azure Star Emperor Immortal Court or the million Sword Intents of the Eternal Sword, he should be able to wield them!

    "The Arcane River Eight Meridians of Sikong Yan didn''t rece the Nine Heavens Star Meridians but instead enhanced it, blending together nicely."

    Now, Yun Xiao''s Hundred Scales Dantian,bined with the newly upgraded Nine Heavens Star Meridians, had drastically increased his ability to channel his Primordial Void Technique. His strength was no longer inferior.

    Just in terms of sacred power, he was notckingpared to someone in the Early Dao Heart Realm!

    "Only four more rounds until the finals!" Yun Xiao stood up, stretching his limbs, his body crackling with pops and snaps.

    Two more rounds quickly passed.

    Yun Xiao easily defeated his two Mid Dao Heart Realm opponents. Both were descendants of Overseers belonging to the Sword Warden''s camp and treated him with respect. So, even though they possessed Seeds of Creations, he didn''t make things difficult for them.

    Who lived and died all depended on the heart.

    After choosing to kill, Yun Xiao gave no exnation.

    "Fae." Mu Xiaolong, who''d already been eliminated from thepetition, tugged at Yun Xiao''s sleeve. Her gaze was focused outside of the viewing tower.

    Below, the crowd was still riled up, unabashedly crying out curses like <em>demon spawn</em> and <em>fiend</em>, disregarding the dignity of the Sword Ruins.

    "They look like they''re about to riot..." Mu Xiaolong said, sticking out her tongue.

    A few people could be handled, but what about 100,000 filled with righteous indignation? Punish all of them? Impossible! And so, the situation had escted to a stage beyond control.

    "Sword Cultivators have always been united, but now someone is manipting people''s hearts, stirring up such chaos, making us a joke to the other eight hells." Mu Dalong sighed, a hint of sadness in her tone.

    "The quarterfinals are here!" Mu Xiaolong looked nervously at Yun Xiao. "Your opponent this time ced third in the Immortal Sword Rankingsst year. He''s incredibly formidable and ruthless in his attacks..."

    "Could he be more ruthless than me, the tyrannical demon king?" Yun Xiao said, half joking.

    "Still, he''s full of tricks. Be careful," Mu Xiaolong warned, her heart always uneasy when she saw Ku Xin. He seemed too sly, always up to no good.

    "It never hurts to be cautious," Mu Dalong also advised.

    "Got it." Yun Xiao nodded. He knew to take precautions. Though he had a habit of mocking his enemies, he always remained fully focused in battle.

    "The tenth round! Will our top 8petitors please enter the arena!" Zhang Mu''s announcement reignited the stage, which had been quiet for over half an hour.

    One day, one round every two hours. By this tenth round, they were approaching thest two battles before dawn.

    In the sky above, a million Sword Souls shone brightly, illuminating the venue of the Immortal Sword Rankings in the dark night.

    The atmosphere was electric!

    When Yun Xiao descended from the viewing tower again, a merciless and unrestrained chorus of boos engulfed him.

    The raging young Sword Cultivators hadpletely let loose, crazily insulting and mocking Yun Xiao.

    None of the crowd feared being silenced anymore! They thought this was the power of the masses, with justice finally overpowering evil. They believed that evil couldn''t suppress the spark that would start a prairie fire, not realizing they were being used like dogs to bite others.

    "Annihte the demon spawn! Wee a new dawn of the Sword Dao!"

    In the dim night, the young Sword Cultivators even started making up slogans. Tens of thousands roared together, moved to tears by their own passion.

    "Down with Yun Short! We ordinary Sword Cultivators stand tall over evil!"

    Under the sway of their so-called justice, the crowd red at Yun Xiao with bloodshot eyes, wishing they could kill him with their gaze alone.

    In reality, Ku Xin was infamous in the Sword Ruins, known for harming many girls. His misdeeds were always covered up by the seniors of the Ku Family. This was known to those of higher status, but not to the average Sword Cultivator disciples.

    The Ku Family had simply projected their usual silencing tactics onto Yun Xiao.

    So when Ku Xin appeared before Yun Xiao like a beam of death, he became a saint in the eyes of those tens of thousands.

    "Ku Xin! Ku Xin!"

    Their thunderous calls shook the venue of the Immortal Sword Rankings.

    "This world, the more foolish the person, the louder they tend to shout. The biggest mouths."

    Yun Xiao wasn''t disappointed, though, for behind these fools, at least a million Sword Cultivators stood with crossed arms, maintaining their silence.

    While chaos erupted in the Sword Ruins, they remained undisturbed!

    Yun Xiao, especially, was the eye of the storm, calm and collected. Gazing at the bald Ku Xin before him, he prepared to defeat him, aiming to move onto the semifinals in the Immortal Sword Rankings.

    Their match, one of four simultaneous battles, attracted ny percent of the attention. It was the absolute center of focus, overshadowing even Ling Chen''s match againstst year''s fourth rankedpetitor.

    "Forgive me, Exile Yun," Ku Xin spoke politely, but the sinister coldness in his eyes couldn''t mask his youthful thirst for blood.

    <em>HUM!</em> He summoned his Burning Bone Sword Soul! A gray skeletal sword shrouded in ghoulish mes hovered ominously, its appearance chilling to the bone. This was the signature Sword Soul of the Ku Family, far purer than Ku Xue''s bloodline!

    Its emergence plunged everything into a cold gloom, transforming the area into a graveyard. Shadows stretched across the grounds like phantoms, and the skull-shaped Sword Intent at the center of the de zed ominously.

    "That''s Burning Bone! A true sword of death! It represents the orthodoxy of the Eternal Sword Prison!"

    Excited murmurs rippled through the crowd.

    "Ku Xin, wield your sword of justice!"

    Righteous and impassioned words flooded the tform.

    "Kill!"

    The crowd''s hatred towards Yun Xiao was a testament to the oppression these ordinary Sword Cultivators endured. Sadly, they were blinded, manipted both in body and mind.

    "It seems the best way to control people is to make them believe they are exceptionally clever. Let them think they''ve seen through the plots of the powerful, exploiting their simple, frustrated hearts to keep jumping into the pit," Yun Xiao mused.

    In pursuit of justice, these young Sword Cultivators became fools.

    "So, he''s strong, huh?" Yun Xiao looked up slightly. A few hundred meters across from him, Ku Xin, fueled by the righteous fury of thousands, had never fought a battle so sacred.

    <em>HUM! </em>Unable to contain his murderous intent, Ku Xin gripped the Burning Bone Sword Soul, transforming into a torrent from the underworld, summoning a 2,500yer Sword Aura, swirling towards Yun Xiao.

    "In this world of turmoil, only the dao illuminates the path ahead." Yun Xiao suddenly closed his eyes, sensing something deep within. His face was calm and profound. Instead of drawing his Sword Soul, he casually flicked his hand, as if pping the air.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>In an instant, five spatial vortexes appeared in the air, copsing from the front, left, right, above, and behind, pressing down on Ku Xin like the sky was falling!

    It was another disy of the Wuji Dao Art!

    "How can there be five?!" A wave of shocked exmations drowned out the previous foolish anger and cursing.

    Looking around, tens of thousands of elders in the Sword Ruins were stunned into silence. With their understanding of the Wuji Dao Art, instantaneously unleashing five was impossible!

    "Its not just the number thats increased, look inside those vortexes..."

    Upon closer inspection, they saw ripples like those on ake''s surface within each vortex, warping the fabric of space and time.

    This was unmistakably Ling Chen''s Flying Sword technique, Vast Skyseamlessly integrated into the Wuji Dao Art by Yun Xiao. The simrity in the natures of the two moves, the Wuji and spatial distortion,plemented each other perfectly!

    However, one was a sword technique and the other a daoist spell!

    How could the fusion of sword and spell be so heaven-defying?

    Before the elders of the Sword Ruins could react, the five spatial vortexes of the enhanced Wuji Dao Art suddenly engulfed Ku Xin!

    "What is this?" Ku Xin, brimming with murderous intent, was suddenly struck by this overwhelming force.

    He felt as if five invisible titans had bitten him from all sides!

    "Explosion Sword Style!" Ku Xin abruptly halted, his feet thundering to the ground, his sword spinning, unleashing his Late Dao Heart Realm sacred power.

    <em>BOOM! </em>His Sword Aura formed a storm of gray sword energy, shing violently in all directions!

 Chapter 280: Asserting Dominance!

    Chapter 280: Asserting Dominance!

    <em>BOOM! </em>In the thick of battle, Ku Xin''s desperate resistance was of some use, but not much. Amidst the swirling vortexes, the storm of sword energy he unleashed copsed on the spot!

    Yun Xiao''s enhanced Wuji Dao Art, filled with the annihting force of the void, struck Ku Xin, shattering the fouryers of magic barriers protecting him. It even ripped apart his life-saving Lower Silva grade magic armor, the True Spirit Sword Armor!

    This piece of armor was a precious artifact, a treasure not even many Supreme Adjudicators possessed.

    "Ahh!" With a scream that could tear the heavens, Ku Xin''s arms and legs,cking the protection of the True Spirit Sword Armor, were instantly torn to a bloody mist under the spatial vortexes.

    Had it not been for the True Spirit Sword Armor, his torso and head would have also been pulverized in a single blow!

    Up to this point, Yun Xiao was utterly dominating!

    "Keep screaming, the louder you wail, the more tragic your family''s end." Yun Xiao turned his gaze to those who were shouting threats.

    This brutal scene struck the tens of thousands of righteous justice-seekers like a heavy hammer, leaving them feeling as if their heads were splitting apart.

    "Ku Xin, they say you''re cunning, but in the face of absolute power, all your schemes are but illusions." Yun Xiao approached the human swine, his footsteps sounding like the hammers of death.

    "No!" Ku Xin gazed in despair at his blood-soaked body. With a howl, he miraculously pulled out a Pouch of Holding from his chest using the Burning Bone Sword Soul!

    In that moment, his despair and fury transformed into a more ferocious killing intent.

    "What reincarnation of a true Immortal? Once dead, everything turns to bones!" Ku Xue roared, bloody tears running down his face. He summoned the ancient power of ughter from a gray, unassuming sword he pulled from the Bag of Holding.

    "Sword Heart!!"

    The crowd was in an uproar.

    Ku Xin had actually brought the forbidden Sword Heart into the arena?

    No wonder he dared to sh head-on with an Exiled Sword Immortal like Yun Xiao!

    In the blink of an eye, amidst this sh of lightning and fire, two different forces erupted.

    "Kill the demon spawn!"

    "Ku Xin broke the rules! Save the Exiled Sword Immortal!"

    A million hearts trembled.

    At this desperate juncture, Ku Xin, choosing to defy death, wasted no time. He even regretted his choices. He should have used the Sword Heart right from the start!

    <em>BOOM! </em>That Sword Heart, clearly left by a powerful ancestor, was now being activated by Ku Xin''s bloodline.

    This was the first time anyone had used a Sword Heart against Yun Xiao!

    Humming and buzzing, the Sword Heart unleashed a dark storm!

    This was the killing blow containing the strength of a peak ancestor umted over a lifetime suddenly unleashed. With a resolve to embrace death, it hurled towards Yun Xiao with a piercing intent!

    "The demon spawn is dead, haha!"

    "Rejoice, everyone!"

    Seeing this, the tens of thousands of righteous justice-seekers began celebrating prematurely.

    The entire venue of the Immortal Sword Rankings plunged into utter chaos, filled with shouts and trembling hearts.

    On a viewing tower, the mother-daughter duo of the Mu Family, caught off guard by this shocking turn, burst into tears of panic.

    Yet, Yun Xiao remained the calmest of all! Facing a deadly crisis? Without a second thought, he lifted his sword.

    <em>HUM! </em>The moment the dark storm came piercing through, it suddenly changed course. It transformed into a warm stream, wrapping around Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul...

    "Huh?" Ku Xin felt like he''d been struck by lightning, his eyes nearly popping out.

    "Thanks for the gift, I''ll take it." Yun Xiao grinned.

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>Ku Xin suddenly spat blood. For the first time, fear emerged in his eyes. What kind of monster was this? His mind was a nk te. And he wasn''t the only one frozen in ce; a million Sword Cultivators were too!

    Over a million pairs of eyes, as if encased in ice, stared dumbfounded at Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    Those tens of thousands who had been screaming for justice, who had been celebrating what they thought was right, now found themselves outssed by the tyrannical demon king himself. Their faces turned as sour as if they had swallowed something foul.

    Ku Xin was finished. Once towering above a million disciples in the Sword Ruins, revered beyond measure, he was now as insignificant as an ant before Yun Xiao.

    There were many ways to defeat a person, but Yun Xiaos method was always the kind that plunged one into despair. He always seemed to be at a disadvantage in cultivation, but he crushed his opponents sopletely they couldn''t catch their breath.

    This was the mark of supreme talent!

    "The Ku Family, perhaps we chose the wrong side" As this thought flickered through Ku Xin''s mind, he was already convulsing in despair.

    Yun Xiao couldnt care less about him. He was ready to finish Ku Xin off and move on to the next battle! But just at that moment, something unexpected happened!!

    From afar, a divine sword shot through the air, shattering the protective enchantments of the arena and aiming straight for Yun Xiao''s head!

    "Who dares attack Exile Yun?!"

    This was even more audacious and sphemous than Ku Xin''s rule-breaking use of a Sword Heart!

    Only a powerhouse of the Sword Ruins, one among the top ten of the Eternal Sword Prison, could shatter the barrier of the Immortal Sword Rankings in an instant!

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao remarked. The attack came so suddenly he had no time to react. If no one intervened, he would be ina true blow from a master of swordsmanship.

    Blue Star and Red Moon were ready to act. Having consumed so many of Yun Xiaos treasures, they were prepared for this moment.

    In a world teeming with mighty beings, the inevitable demise of geniuses at the hands of the powerful made having a fallback crucial. Yun Xiao always prioritized feeding them, preparing for this very moment!

    However, just as the sword was about to reach Yun Xiao, someone else intervened.

    <em>KLANG! </em>An invisible de of light struck from the side, colliding with the murderous Flying Sword!

    The two swords shed, the resulting shockwave sending Yun Xiao flying back almost a hundred meters!

    It was clear that both the attacker and the savior were forces to be reckoned with.

    "It''s the Sword Warden." Yun Xiao knew that on the Sword Warden''s turf, no one couldy a finger on him.

    The Sword Warden had been alerted to this fact previously.

    "But who was that attacker?"

    Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed as he looked up. There, descending from the heavens, was a woman in a white dress! Her long hair was tied high, adorned with a sword-shaped cyan hairpin. Her face was cold as ice, her eerie cyan eyes swirling with sword energy.

    This woman was icy and stunning! She brought a wave of cold with her, and as she descended, the temperature around the Immortal Sword Rankings seemed to drop, as if a chill had swept through.

    The previously noisy surroundings fell into a hushed silence.

    With just one nce, Yun Xiao recognized her. She was the granddaughter of the Withered Bone Keeper, the beloved daughter of Ku XuanQingzan!

    A Sword Cultivator under forty, yet immensely powerful, the foremost of her generation, rivaling even the Sword Warden in skill! Impressive indeed, if not a bit in-looking.

    "A in face coupled with a fiery temper?" Yun Xiao recalled Mu Dalong, andparing her with Qingzan of the same age, came to a somewhat one-sided conclusion.

    "Thisdy attacks me on sight, quite the grand entrance!" Yun Xiao remarked. After all, he was an Exiled Sword Cultivator! And her, to put it inly, was a woman married into the Cmity Seal Purgatory, representing outsiders!

    Qingzan''s attack spoke volumes. She didn''te alone; behind her were over twenty people. Several among them were extraordinary young individuals. They must be Inscription Cultivators!

    So, the intent to challenge and suppress was unmistakable.

    As many Sword Cultivators frowned, Ku Xuan cheerfully appeared, approaching Qingzan.

    "Look who it is? My daughter has returned home." Ku Xuan''s face beamed with joy, seemingly forgetting the intimidating first strike just moments ago.

    Facing her father, Qingzan remained as cold as ever. She nced at Ku Xuan and, leading a group from the Cmity Seal Purgatory, walked towards a high building. She spoke indifferently, "I hear that in our Sword Ruins, we now have two Exiled Sword Immortals?"

    "Yes," Ku Xuan replied with a smile.

    "Which is genuine, which is fake, I wonder Were they bought in bulk, or perhaps with gold?" Qingzan asked ndly.

    "You still know how to joke." Ku Xuan pointed to Yun Xiao on one of the battle tforms in the arena. "Qingzan, he''s one of the two Exiled Sword Immortals. Your attack on him was quite disrespectful."

    "You''re kidding. Why is an Exiled Sword Immortal participating in a contest between disciples?" Qingzans icy eyes nced at Yun Xiao and then back to Ku Xuan. "Dad, you''re telling the truth? Then, I suppose I''ve justmitted the crime of attacking an Exiled Sword Immortal."

    "You were just eager to save someone and unaware of his identity. I believe the Exile Yun won''t hold it against you," Ku Xuan said with a chuckle. His grandson had already attacked Yun Xiao with a Sword Heart; there was no need for pretense now.

    With just a few words, Ku Xuan had justified Qingzan''s intimidating entrance. He quickly turned to a man beside him, "Go and bring down Ku Xin."

    This man was Ku Xin''s father and Qingzan''s brother, Ku He.

    Qingzan''s sword strike, she knew, couldn''t kill Yun Xiao. It was meant to save someone while also asserting her power! She stood with her hands behind her back, looking back at Yun Xiao with a slight smile, her eyes roiling with cold waves.

    The intent to intimidate was crystal clear!

    By then, Ku He had already descended on the arena. He wasn''t as renowned as his sister Qingzan, being a Supreme Adjudicator himself. Seeing his son reduced to such a state, his heart burned with rage. He clenched his teeth tightly and picked up his son.

    "Rest assured, with your aunt back, he''s as good as dead," Ku He assured.

    "Dad..." A faint glimmer of life returned to Ku Xin''s dim eyes.

    "Wait."

    Just as Ku He was about to leave the arena, Yun Xiao''s cold voice echoed from behind.

    "Exile Yun, what can I do for you?" Ku He turned back calmly to ask.

    "Did I say you could take him away?" In an instant, as Yun Xiao finished speaking, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand, freshly infused with the Sword Heart, transformed into a whirlwind of flying swords!

    This Sword Heart, originating from a former Sword Warden in the Sword Ruins, was Ku Xin''s hefty investment to kill Yun Xiao. And now, its divine might burst forth in a single moment, transforming into an azure dragon, lunging at Ku He and his son at close range.

    "What..." Ku He, holding his son, couldn''t believe Yun Xiao would attack so suddenly. Nor could he have imagined that Yun Xiao could meld the Sword Heart''s power with the Sword Soul...

    Theoretically, that Sword Heart should have been depleted! This was a life-ending strike from a former Sword Warden of the Sword Ruins!

    <em>ROAR! </em>As the storm of sword energy swept through, Ku He and Ku Xin''s eyes widened, their bodies trembling!

    Several Flying Swords came to their rescue, only to be blocked by others!

    <em>SLASH SLASH SLASH! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul pierced through Ku Xin''s body and then Ku He''s heart, killing them instantly, intertwined in death!

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>An azure inferno engulfed them, leaving behind two lifeless bodies that crashed to the ground!

    Father and son had died together!

    All of this happened in the blink of an eye!

    "What..." Including the tens of thousands of justice seekers, a million Sword Cultivators lost their ability to think, staring at this scene as if in a dream, breathless for a long time.

    After doing all this, Yun Xiao slightly raised his head. With a disdainful gaze, he swept over the crowd, focusing on the frosty Qingzan. "If you are a person of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, leave this ce immediately. Go and wash your neck clean, waiting for me to sever your head.

    "And if you still consider yourself a part of the Sword Ruins, crawl to me now and kneel in submission!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 281: A Tense Standoff!

    Chapter 281: A Tense Standoff!

    Yun Xiao''s words cut through the air like a sword of ice, slicing past the ears of those around him.

    "The top prodigy of the Ku Family, along with a Supreme Adjudicator, suddenly in at the hands of Yun Xiao!"

    And now, he was challenging Qingzan?

    Yun Xiao''s counterattack was raw and fierce, like a sledgehammer crashing into the hearts of the crowd. Even the tens of thousands of raucous justice-seekers felt a piercing pain in their minds.

    If it weren''t for the birth of two Exiled Sword Immortals, Qingzan was already seen by many as the next generation Sword Warden!

    "This demon spawn, he''s actually giving Qingzan a choice between going back to face death or kneeling to admit fault?"

    After a brief silence, undercurrents roiled beneath the Immortal Sword Rankings.

    "How dare he! This brash youngster, ignorant of the ways of the world, speaking nonsense in front of my mother?"

    Standing next to Qingzan was a young girl in a green dress. Her eyes were the color of frost, radiant as the moon, lovely and delicate, withrge, bright eyes like a dazzling green butterfly.

    Although young, her presence in the Sword Ruins overshadowed many, including the now deceased Sikong Yan, with a more celestial aura.

    Yun Xiao could see that she had a quality distinct from that of a Sword Cultivator. On her forehead, there fluttered a faint butterfly symbol, pulsating as if alive, radiating a power that seemed tomunicate with the heavens and the earth.

    This girl in green must be an Inscription Cultivator!

    In the Nine Hells, this was the pinnacle of human cultivation.

    Qingzan was the wife of the ruler of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, and this girl was her daughter; her status was obvious. She was the princess of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, equivalent to the War Princess of the Endless Netherworld.

    With the girl''s defiant words, countless Sword Cultivators turned their gaze towards Yun Xiao.

    Among them, those tens of thousands of justice-seekers seemed almost gleeful at the prospect of trouble.

    "That demon spawn is arrogant and unruly, always stirring trouble, and now he''s finally met his match."

    "His words were beyond audacious. The funny thing is, look around, does anyone even care to respond?"

    "They''reughing! That tyrant needs a taste of his own medicine from a real tough character outside."

    Shaking their heads and shrugging their shoulders, theyughed mockingly.

    Yun Xiao nced coldly at the girl in the green dress, ignoring her for the moment. He looked around, unmindful of the murmurs, and spoke in a deep voice, "Where are the Sword Warden and other Overseers?"

    As he finished speaking, a streak of golden light shed behind him! With the ng of a sword, the towering figure of the Sword Warden appeared, stepping forward to stand beside Yun Xiao.

    "Salutations to the Sword Warden!" Instantly, a million Sword Cultivators felt a tremor in their hearts, sensing that something significant was unfolding. With knowing looks, the wise ones closed their mouths.

    As the Sword Warden made his appearance, about twenty Overseers from the Sword Ruins heeded Yun Xiao''s call, descending from their high towers to stand by Yun Xiao and the Sword Warden.

    Zhang Mu''s eyes subtly changed, and he too pressed his lips together, bowing his head as he moved behind the Sword Warden.

    From this moment, this group of powerful figures from the Sword Ruins exerted an invisible pressure, overwhelming the guests from the Cmity Seal Purgatory, utterly silencing them.

    Even the girl in the green dress turned pale, involuntarily stepping back to hide behind her mother.

    And Ku Xuan, grieving the death of his son and grandson, had his gaze grow solemn and still.

    This scene proved unequivocally that the Eternal Sword Prison was controlled by the powerful, not by ordinary Sword Cultivators or so-called public opinion!

    These twenty Overseers remained silent, but the mere fact that they stood by the Sword Warden spoke volumes!

    All of them had witnessed the terrifying talent of Yun Xiao today!

    As for the malicious rumors surrounding Yun Xiao, how could they not know who was behind it all?

    "The Sword Warden and Overseers have all shown up. What are they up to now"

    "I have no idea! Such a grand show of force can''t just be to support that demon spawn, can it?"

    Those tens of thousands of indignant Sword Cultivators, who had just been mocking Yun Xiao for making mountains out of molehills, now found themselves silenced by this scene, as if a cold wind had pped them across the face.

    In this chilly and dead silent atmosphere, Yun Xiao turned to the Sword Warden and asked, slowly enunciating each word, "May I ask the Sword Warden the ancestral promation of the Sword Ruins, echoed through thousands of generations, does it still hold true today?"

    "Exile Yun, your words carry great weight," the Sword Warden replied, bowing slightly. "We revere the promation of our ancestors the utmost. If we disregard their sacred words, our Sword Ruins would be aughingstock in the Nine Hells. Any rules set by our ancestors would lose all credibility."

    "Then tell me Today, under the broad light of day, someone openly attempted to assassinate an Exiled Sword Immortal. Not once, but twice. In the rules of the Sword Ruins, is this not a heinous and unforgivable act, deserving of death?" Yun Xiao''s voice was fervent, his presence somanding that, for a moment, it even overshadowed the Sword Warden.

    The Sword Warden didn''t even nce at Qingzan. Without hesitation, he nodded gravely: "What you say is true. Those who seek to kill an Exiled Sword Immortal of our Sword Ruins are dering war on us! Such an act is an unforgivable provocation! Of course... if it''s an internal affair, we handle it internally." When the Sword Warden spoke these serious words, many in the venue of the Immortal Sword Rankings gasped in shock.

    The Exiled Sword Immortals were too young for some.

    Many of the young Sword Cultivators always felt that the Exiled Sword Immortals weren''t strong, utterly unaware of what it meant to be a reincarnation of a true Immortal, equal in status and power to the Sword Warden. They took their chances, treating the Exiled Sword Immortals as mere geniuses, simr to a Heavenly Sun Child.

    Now, however, the Sword Warden re-emphasized the status of an Exiled Sword Immortal, sending shivers down the spines of many.

    These words implied that what was to follow from Yun Xiao and the Sword Warden wouldn''t be pleasant.

    Even those tens of thousands of justice-seekers, hearing this, felt their hearts pounding, bewildered and frightened, only then realizing that their earlier shouting might have alreadymitted a grave disrespect to their ancestors.

    Yun Xiao didn''t bother with them, for they were too insignificant in his eyes. His icy gaze swept again towards Qingzan.

    "You''re called Qingzan, right? You''re merely the daughter of a Sword Ruins Overseer and married off to the Cmity Seal Purgatory. You attacked me earlier. I''ll ask you once more, do you belong to the Cmity Seal Purgatory, or to the Sword Ruins?" Yun Xiao was not speaking to her as a mere young prodigy. He was using this incident to force her to dere her allegiance publicly!

    "Exile Yun" Before Qingzan could speak, Ku Xuan, beside her, with a hoarse voice suppressing his fury over the tragic death of his descendants, said in extreme frustration, "Please allow me to exin. My daughter Qingzan acted rashly only in an attempt to save someone. She has returned from afar and did not know of your status as an Exiled Sword Immortal. There was no intention to provoke you."

    Ku Xuan wasn''t submitting to Yun Xiao, but to the Sword Warden and the twenty other Overseers of equal status. Their challenge signified that Yun Xiao''s performance had won over the powerhouses of the Sword Ruins

    This was a dangerous sign!

    Yun Xiao frowned, his eyes growing cold. "Ku Xuan, did I give you permission to speak?"

    "No." Ku Xuan clenched his teeth! He looked up, meeting the zing gazes of the dozens before him.

    "p yourself," Yun Xiao ordered indifferently.

    Ku Xuan''s eyes trembled, staring deathly at the young man in white. He was the son of a former Sword Warden, a loser in the struggle for power. But before the Sword Baptism Ceremony, he was the third most important person in the Sword Ruins, a highly respected Overseer!

    And now, he was being ordered to p himself in public?

    "Ku Xuan, you''ve erred. You dare to defy the words of an Exiled Sword Immortal?" The Sword Warden''s voice was deep and resonant, his gaze like golden beams pressing down on Ku Xuan.

    "N-no I wouldn''t dare!!" Ku Xuan felt as if his internal organs were about to explode. He had lost his descendants and now faced public humiliation! This was undoubtedly the most shameful moment of his life, more humiliating than losing the struggle for the position of Sword Warden.

    It was aplete disgrace at his old age!

    Even as the former third most important figure in the Sword Ruins, Ku Xuan was being censured by an Exiled Sword Immortal and the Sword Warden. Twenty of his peers were also watching. What could he do?

    The Sword Warden had him cornered!

    His daughter, thinking herself above others, had dared to throw her weight around in this setting. Now, she had to swallow the bitter fruit of her actions!

    Was Yun Xiao someone to be trifled with?

    Did the Overseers look like fools, unable to see Yun Xiao''s true caliber?

    Except for those Overseers who had long since taken a side, the others who hadn''t now unanimously stepped forward! They were temporarily siding with Yun Xiao, not fawning over Ling Chen like Overseers Feng, Yun, and Shuang.

    <em>SLAP! </em>When Ku Xuan actually pped himself in front of everyone, those tens of thousands of justice-seekers were stunned. How could such an esteemed elder be humiliated like this? Was the status of an Exiled Sword Immortal really that serious?

    "Qingzan, I ask you onest time, on what grounds did you attack me with that sword?"

    After Ku Xuan had pped himself, Yun Xiao had no intention of letting Qingzan off the hook!

    Qingzan looked coldly at the young man, but refused to respond verbally.

    "You want to be the Sword Warden of the Sword Ruins? Fine, if you still want that,e here and kneel, apologize, and I might believe your fathers words, considering it a mistake because you didnt recognize me. But if you''d rather return to the Cmity Seal Purgatory as an outsider''s wife, then leave the Sword Ruins immediately. I will settle this score with you another day." Yun Xiao''s tone softened, but his words were sharp as a knife, revealing his true nature.

    "Brother Yun!" Just then, Ling Chen, who had been ignored, suddenly stepped forward. "This is essentially a misunderstanding. Perhaps it''s best if Senior Qingzan simply apologizes to you? After all, the Immortal Sword Rankings is at its climax. Theres no need to disrupt the unity within the Sword Ruins."

    Yun Xiao looked up at him and responded directly, "Didnt Exile Ling renounce his authority over sect affairs? Why intervene now? Since that sword wasnt aimed at you, you can afford to make light of it."

    Ling Chen frowned deeply, staring at Yun Xiao. He didn''t expect Yun Xiao to be so reckless and dismissive, not even sparing his dignity!

    After being rebuked like that, even he felt like a mere background figure, unable to step down gracefully.

    Seeing this scene, the million Sword Cultivators were astounded, never expecting Yun Xiao, with his ethereal appearance, to be such a tyrant at heart!

    "Qingzan!" The Sword Warden stared intently at the woman, his voice stern, "Exile Yun is showing you leniency, overlooking your attack and not stripping you of your right to inherit the Sword Warden position Shouldn''t you be grateful and remorseful?"

 Chapter 282: Ling Chen Seething in the Background!

    Chapter 282: Ling Chen Seething in the Background!

    Anyone with half a brain knew that Qingzan wouldn''t openly dere allegiance to the Cmity Seal Purgatory, not in a million years! That would''ve mmed shut her chances of ever controlling the Eternal Sword Prison.

    You want to be the Sword Warden? Then kneel, simple as that. That''s what Yun Xiao demanded, a no-nonsense approach. You try to intimidate me? Well, I''ll show you intimidation!

    But the idea of the Sword Warden killing Qingzan? Now, that was never going to happen. "My dear grandchild, apologize to Exile Yun," came the voice of the Withered Bone Keeper from a distant tower. His clout and authority as the old Sword Warden dwarfed even that of Ku Xuan.

    This tomb guardian, though not on the level of a Sword Warden or Exiled Sword Immortal, was still a figure to be respected. When he spoke up, the tens of thousands of young Sword Cultivators felt like they''d swallowed fliestheir insides churned in turmoil.

    And then, they saw her! Qingzan, the unparalleled female sword goddess, who had just stirred the heavens with her sword energy, now walked step by step towards Yun Xiao.

    She stopped a mere three feet away from hima distance a powerful being could use to obliterate a genius in an instant. Her approach was a silent pressure, an attempt to intimidate him with her presence. Even making Yun Xiao step back would have salvaged some of her dignity.

    But disappointingly for her, Yun Xiao didn''t flinch. Instead, he gave her a sly look and quipped, Arent you a good girl?

    This flippant remark pierced Qingzan''s heart like a sword. The crowd fell deathly silent. Then, as if they were all struck dumb, a million onlookers gaped as the sword goddess knelt before Yun Xiao. She prostrated, her hands touching the ground, and bowed her head thrice.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD!</em> Those soft sounds echoed like thunder in the ears of the million witnesses.

    Qingzan actually did it; she bowed her head! She couldn''t bear to lose her identity as a member of the Sword Ruins, to be an outsider. So, she endured the humiliation. That was the price of underestimating the resolve of a youngster!

    Qingzan had many titles attached to her name. She was the heiress of the Ku Family, hailed as the strongest uing Sword Cultivator. She was also the esteemeddy of the Cmity Seal Purgatory. Yet, she had to bow her head on her return to the Sword Ruins!

    The news would rock the Nine Hellsa sensational story, a stinging embarrassment for the Cmity Seal Purgatory.

    However, if Qingzan still imed to be from the Sword Ruins, it would still salvage some of her reputation. That was the trap Yun Xiao set for her. Don''t want to leave? Then jump into the pit!

    After bowing thrice, Qingzan stood up, her eyes frosty as she stared at Yun Xiao, so close yet so far, with a heart full of murderous intent.

    "I thank Exile Yun for your unexpected mercy," she said, forcing a smile at Yun Xiao. But the killing intent in her smile was unmistakable.

    "No need to thank me," Yun Xiao replied with a slight smirk. "When you were bowing, I realized the ruler of the Cmity Seal Purgatory doesn''t have much luck in his tastes, poor fellow."

    Qingzan was stunned. It took her a full ten breaths toprehend his meaning. Being mocked so publicly by someone so young, she was furious, her chest exploding with rage multiple times. Yet, she had to forcibly suppress it, nearly tearing her apart.

    Her usually serene blue eyes turned red in an instant. Never in her life had she been this infuriated!

    Even the Sword Warden and Overseers of the Sword Ruins, including Mu Dalong, heard his words, all wearing expressions of disbelief. Who would have thought Yun Xiao, with his good looks, could speak with such deadly venom!

    "Your look of wanting to kill me but not daring to is quite amusing," Yun Xiao observed, peering into her soul, then waved her off, "Alright, you can leave. Be more careful next time."

    And all this, just three feet apart!

    In such close quarters, Qingzan was confident she could end Yun Xiao with a single strike, a feat not even the Sword Warden could undo. Yet, Yun Xiao didn''t back down; instead, his audacious provocations exerted an immense pressure on her.

    And just as expected, Qingzan backed down. With a quiet hum, she slowly retreated, rejoining the ranks of the Cmity Seal Purgatory under the stunned gazes of many.

    Her daughter, d in a green dress, was near hysterics. "Mother!" she cried, her eyes bloodshot and brimming with tears, "You were so close, why didnt you just kill him?"

    "If I had killed him here, it would mean unending strife between the two hells. Your rtionship with Yi Qingfan would be impossible." Qingzan calmly stroked her daughter''s face. "I underestimated him."

    The young girl in green, struck as if by lightning, gasped, "Do we just swallow this monumental humiliation? I cant ept it!"

    "We must swallow it. For a woman to achieve great things, why fear a stain on her reputation? Life and death are the true measures of our mettle," Qingzan replied, her voice heavy with meaning. She was incredibly resilient, already letting go of her anger, calming her heart. Suchposure was truly rare.

    "No! He insulted you so grievously; my hatred for him is bone-deep. I cant stand it for a moment longer!" The young girl clenched her fists, veins bulging on her neck. The odd looks from those around felt like she was being tormented in a furnace. For someone as proud and young as she, this was unbearable.

    Suddenly, her eyes locked onto a young man in blue beside her. "Mother," she said, grabbing his hand, "the Immortal Sword Rankings isnt over yet. Brother Fan is his next opponent! He''s your disciple and your future son-inw. If he avenges you by killing this scoundrel, itll wash away your disgrace. This is a battle of the Immortal Sword Rankings. If this Exiled Sword Immortal dies, no one can be med, right?"

    "In the Immortal Sword Rankings, death indeed befits those who fall, but" Ku Xuan, standing nearby, shook his head.

    "But what?" the girl in green asked.

    "It''s true that Qingfan topped the Immortal Sword Rankingsst year. He also possesses a talentparable to an Emperor Star Child. However, even in the Perfect Dao Heart Realm, I fear he is still no match for Exile Ling," Ku Xuan said, shaking his head. "Death is almost certain.

    "Qingfan, I suggest you forfeit. Let Exile Ling handle it," Ku Xuan said, looking at the young man in blue. "For your mother''s sake, give up. These two Exiled Sword Immortals have already torn off all pretenses. Exile Ling is furious; he''ll kill without hesitation."

    "Forfeit" Yi Qingfan bit his lip. "Last year, I was first in the Immortal Sword Rankings, and now to forfeit... It goes against the spirit of the Sword Dao, I fear it might damage my Dao Heart..."

    Hearing this, Ku Xuan and Qingzan could only remain silent.

    To fight was to risk death; to retreat was to live in cowardice forever. For a Sword Cultivator, to forfeit without a fight could be a lifelong inner demon, greatly impacting future cultivation.

    At this moment, the top four of the Immortal Sword Ranking were decided. Yun Xiao, Ling Chen, Yi Qingfan, andst year''s runner-up. Despite the interruption, the most thrilling moment was upon them.

    Many pinned their hopes on Yi Qingfan. Before the appearance of the two Exiled Sword Immortals, Yi Qingfan, a prodigy from humble origins, was the inspiration of the young Sword Cultivators in the Sword Ruins. His rise could fill a biography.

    Before the Sword Baptism Ceremony, Yi Qingfan was the idol of the Sword Ruins'' youth. At fourteen, he reached the top of the Immortal Sword Rankings, dominating for three consecutive years.

    Born in the lower echelons of the Eternal Sword Prison, with a natural Ignis grade Sword Soul and wielding six Sword Rings, he was seen as the next potential Sword Warden after Qingzan.

    In the overwhelming shadow of the two Exiled Sword Immortals, this prominent prodigy, forced to forfeit without a fight, became a subject of sighs andments.

    "We can''t forfeit! Only Brother Qingfan can wash away the disgrace for my mother" the girl in green sobbed.

    "I can try!" Yi Qingfan insisted, teeth clenched, unwilling to let down his beloved.

    "No!" Both Qingzan and Ku Xuan rejected in unison, their stance unyieldingly firm.

    "Qingfan, announce your forfeiture," Qingzan added.

    "Yes..." Yi Qingfan, though his heart was heavy with reluctance, stood up. Facing Zhang Mu, he announced in the most pained voice, amidst the crowd, a deration that reeked of humiliation, "I, Yi Qingfan, forfeit. I ce fourth in the Immortal Sword Rankings."

    To forfeit meant no chance even for third ce. For a supreme talent ustomed to being first, this was a crushing blow. After all, he didn''t even dare to fight.

    His deration set the Sword Ruins abuzz.

    "What''s happening?"

    "The top talent of the Sword Ruins, scared witless by Exile Yun..."

    "Qingfan, my once idol, though he didn''t reach seven resonances of the Eternal Sword, he had the true talent of an Emperor Star Child."

    "The Sword Dao, it''s been shattered!"

    "A genius has fallen, s..."

    Each sigh, sharp as a sword, pierced through Yi Qingfan''s heart.

    In that moment, his pride, his lifetime of arrogance, evaporated into nothing, leaving him as nothing more than a backdrop for Yun Xiao.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao heard Yi Qingfan''s deration of forfeiture. Even Sikong Yan had dared to face him without backing down.

    "Yi Qingfan?" Yun Xiao turned to him. "I find you quite agreeable. You don''t have to forfeit. I won''t kill you. You could show a bit more courage and save some face for yourself."

    Yun Xiao had his own way of judging intentions. He could tell who truly wanted him dead. Like Sikong Yan, with her smiling face and polite words, but her heart full of hatred and murderous intent was clear to him. That''s why he didn''t hesitate to eliminate her.

    But Yi Qingfan, not born into the powerful families of the Sword Ruins, might stand with the Ku Family in opposition to Yun Xiao, but it was clear he harbored a pure love for the sword. He was a different breedpared to Ku Xin.

    "No, thank you. Congrattions to Exile Yun, on advancing to the final battle," Yi Qingfan said with a bow.

    "How about this," Yun Xiao suddenly turned to the crowd behind Yi Qingfan, "I know many of you want to kill me. I''ll give you a chance."

    His words again captured the attention of the entire crowd.

    "What chance?" Yi Qingfan asked, slightly startled.

    "Those behind you, the Inscription Cultivators from the Cmity Seal Purgatory, right? You can ask them to join forces with you and attack me together. Anyone of the right age for the Immortal Sword Rankings can join," Yun Xiao offered.

    "What..." The crowd of a million sword cultivators was shaken by his words. His proposal was made lightly, but it showed incredible boldness and confidence.

    Sword cultivators and Inscription Cultivators! These two factions had been vying for supremacy since ancient times, and now the Sword Cultivators were under the thumb of the Inscription Cultivators. Every Sword Cultivator felt this oppression deeply.

    And now, Yun Xiao, was challengingst year''s champ of the Immortal Sword Rankings and several Inscription Cultivator prodigies who hade to the Sword Ruins as a show of force?

    Everyone knew, including the girl in the green dress, that these young Inscription Cultivators were all notable figures in the Cmity Seal Purgatory, many of them ranking in the top five of the Divine Sigil Rankings.

    "Exile Yun, are you serious?" Before Qingzan or Ku Xuan could respond, the girl in green stepped beside Yi Qingfan, her gaze fixed on Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao looked at the sky and smiled faintly. "There''s still two hours left. Call whoever you want. I''ll take on as many that arrive."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 283: Going Out of Their Way to Deliver Their Heads!

    Chapter 283: Going Out of Their Way to Deliver Their Heads!

    "Exile Yun sure knows how to make a big show!"

    Most Sword Cultivators didn''t have a good impression of Inscription Cultivators.

    It was a rivalry thatsted countless generations!

    This was the sh of generations!

    The territory of the Cmity Seal Purgatory was vast, teeming with people, both aloof and proud. Though also belonging to the human race, the Inscription Cultivators were like oil and water with the Sword Cultivators.

    However, times appeared to be changing. Ever since Qingzan married into the Cmity Seal Purgatory, the ice was starting to thaw, but old grudges didn''t just vanish into thin air.

    The Sword Ruins was hosting the Immortal Sword Rankings, a grand event held only once every year to celebrate the young talents of the sect. Yet, not only had the Inscription Cultivators crashed it, they also immediately started causing trouble. This immediately rubbed many Sword Cultivators the wrong way!

    "Those Inscription Cultivators always act so high and mighty. Even with the emergence of two Exiled Sword Immortals, they still don''t know how to tone it down!"

    Many Sword Cultivators were just bystanders, neutral about Yun Xiao. But now, they felt a sense of kinship with him.

    "Alright then, the challenge of a mighty Exiled Sword Immortal? We Inscription Cultivators dly ept it!" The girl in the green dress stirred up quite the buzz in the Immortal Sword Rankings.

    Even the tens of thousands of justice-seekers knew better than to open their mouths in the face of this grand dispute.

    "I''ve never seen Inscription Cultivators in action. I hope you all don''t disappoint," Yun Xiao quipped before soaring back onto his viewing tower.

    And inside the venue of the Immortal Sword Rankings, the undercurrents grew even stronger.

    More and more Sword Cultivators came to watch. The sky was filled with over two million Sovereign Swords.

    Those who criticized Yun Xiao were now silenced!

    For a moment, Ling Chen''s limelight waspletely stolen. He nced at Yun Xiao and smirked coldly. "Still a bit green... Fine, you can be the dancing clown and take the blows for me."

    On another viewing tower, Qingzan walked up slowly, bowing slightly to an elderly, hunchbacked figure. "Grandfather," she greeted.

    Beside them, the sorrowful Overseer Sikong, mourning his granddaughter''s death, had excused himself, leaving Qingzan with the Withered Bone Keeper.

    "The Exiled Sword Immortals are tough opponents, aren''t they?" the Withered Bone Keeper rasped in a low, gravelly voice.

    "A bit unexpected," Qingzan admitted, pouring a cup of murky tea for the old man, her expression calm.

    "Do you think this turn of events is a blessing or a curse for our family?" the Withered Bone Keeper asked, sipping his tea and staring intently at Qingzan.

    "A curse," she replied without a moment''s hesitation.

    "One disaster, or two?" the Withered Bone Keeper inquired.

    "Both are disasters," Qingzan replied, locking eyes with the Withered Bone Keeper, her gaze unwavering.

    "Heh." The Withered Bone Keeper chuckled, shaking his head. "Qingzan, you may be married, but remember, you''re a Sword Cultivator. You should speak from our perspective."

    "Grandfather, I am speaking as a Sword Cultivator," Qingzan insisted, her voice firm.

    "You want to kill both Exiled Sword Immortals... that''s the stance of the Cmity Seal Purgatory!" The Withered Bone Keeper gritted his teeth, then paused before continuing solemnly, "Yun Xiao is a thorn in our side. Except for Mu Tianjian, the entire Nine Hells wants him dead! But our Exile Ling is cautious and experienced, stable in temperament, and a trustworthy man. He''s a genuine reincarnation of a true Immortal, clearly retaining memories from his past life. He spoke up for you just now, and yet you wish to eliminate him? I advise you to abandon this notion quickly, or not even I can save you."

    Qingzan shook her head, speaking sternly, "Grandfather, my sole purpose here is to ask you to eliminate these two menaces swiftly. They''re still in their nascent stages, and we have a chance to strike now. Leaving even one alive would plunge the Eternal Sword Prison into an irreversible abyss."

    "Silence!" The Withered Bone Keeper''s eyes zed with a gray fire, "The Exiled Sword Immortals are a gift from the heavens and our ancestors to the Sword Ruins! Exile Ling is fully capable of leading the Eternal Sword Prison into a golden age of swordsmanship, dominating the Nine Hells. If you''d only wake up, step out of the Cmity Seal Purgatory''s shadow, and align with Exile Ling, the day he ascends will be your day to rule the Nine Hells. Even your husband will be no more than a servant under you. Why bother with his approval then?"

    "Rule the Nine Hells?" Qingzan looked up, meeting her grandfather''s gaze. "Sorry, I don''t share your blind faith in the Exiled Sword Immortals, nor in this so-called reincarnation of a true Immortal. I don''t believe that a prodigy can suddenly make the Eternal Sword Prison capable of taking on eight hells at once. The other Hell Wardens aren''t fools; they''ll never allow such a supernatural talent the time to grow."

    "One against eight?" The Withered Bone Keeper frowned deeply, visualizing the scene.

    Qingzan couldn''t help but smile, asking, "Grandfather, does the Eternal Sword Prison really have friends in the Nine Hells? Everyone else thinks you''re all a stubborn bunch of old donkeys."

    Her words were disrespectful, yet they struck a nerve like a sharp sword. Indeed, when it came to cunning and social graces, the Sword Cultivators were no match for the Inscription Cultivators.

    The Cmity Seal Purgatory had allies everywhere, while the Eternal Sword Prison''s neighbors, whether the Primeval Demon Hell or the Endless Netherworld, were sworn enemies.

    "No matter what, Exile Ling is worth the gamble. If we win, it''ll be a blessing for countless generations!" the Withered Bone Keeper dered.

    "And if we lose? If the other hells divide us, leading to the decline of Sword Cultivators, our lineage ends, and you and Mu Tianjian be historical criminals, cursed even in the afterlife!" Qingzan retorted coldly.

    "The Exiled Sword Immortal cannot lose." The Withered Bone Keeper knew Ling Chen well. He was aware of his strategic prowess and just how formidable he was.

    So far, Ling Chen had only been unable to influence Yun Xiao.

    Everything else was under his control.

    "One against eight, and you think we can''t lose? You''ve grown senile and lost your mind." Qingzan shook her head and sighed. "Grandfather, why can''t you see? The reason our ancestors gave such high status and power to the Exiled Sword Immortals was that they knew there''s no such thing as a reincarnated true Immortal! It was a beautiful illusion, a wistful dream yearning for the path of Immortality, but that''s all it isan illusion. In reality, even a Heavenly Sun Child can be assassinated by thebined forces of the eight hells, let alone an Exiled Sword Immortal."

    "You needn''t say more. You have your stance, and we''ll see how it ys out. No matter what, we the Ku Family are betting on this." The Withered Bone Keeper''s gaze never wavered.

    "Why the need to gamble at all?" Qingzan asked, exasperated. "ording to our original n, once I be the Sword Warden, we can ally with the Cmity Seal Purgatory, and our human race will be strong enough to dominate the Nine Hells. Why rely on someone else? Grandfather, including the Sword Relic you desire, I''ll personally hand everything to you myself."

    "Qingzan..." The Withered Bone Keeper gritted his teeth, his eyes shing with blood. "To wait for you to take charge means waiting for Mu Tianjian to step down. I can''t wait that long."

    "If you can''t wait, you''d sacrifice the entire Eternal Sword Prison? After living so long, why are you still so selfish?" Qingzan''s face was icy as she spoke bluntly.

    "No point in arguing further. I choose to bet on Exile Ling," the Withered Bone Keeper dered, looking directly at her. "As for you, there''s no need for you to stick your neck out. You can just maneuver between the two hells, siding with whoever has the upper hand. After all, you can''t lose; your father and I won''t allow it either."

    Qingzan fell silent upon hearing this. "I''m sorry, Grandfather. I was presumptuous," she lowered her head.

    "For so many years, you''ve always been like this. I''m used to it." The Withered Bone Keeper sighed deeply. "But no matter what, you''re still our family."

    "Alright," Qingzan gave up trying to persuade him. She paused, then added solemnly, "Since we''re family, let me remind you. The other eight hells fear the Exiled Sword Immortals more than you realize. They''ve already started covert operations. Once the Immortal Sword Rankings is over, assassinations will flood in. Then, humans, demons, and devils will all pounce for the kill. I''m afraid your Exile Ling won''t even survive long enough topete in the Nine Hells Conquest sh."

    "Oh? They''re that jealous?" The Withered Bone Keeper sneered.

    "It''s normal." Qingzan looked out. "If it''s something nobody else has, they don''t want you to have it either! One is bad enough, but you''ve got two. Isn''t that the same as forcing them into a corner? If they don''t kill the Exiled Sword Immortals soon, are they just waiting to die?"

    "They could also choose to kneel before Exile Ling," the Withered Bone Keeper suggested.

    "Kneel? The Cmity Seal Purgatory might, since we''re all humans. But the demons and devils? You think they''d kneel? If the Sword Cultivators rise to power, the demons will be your livestock; and the Azure Phoenix Demon Empress, your pet bird trapped in a cage! Their only hope is to assassinate your Exiled Sword Immortals; they don''t have the luxury of kneeling." Qingzan finished speaking, grasped the railing of the viewing tower, and said with a distant gaze, "So, Grandfather, face reality."

    The conversation reached a point where the Withered Bone Keeper fell into deep silence.

    The issue of the Exiled Sword Immortals had long transcended the confines of the Sword Ruins. It was now a matter concerning the entire Nine Hells! Like a stone causing ripples in a pond, the news had stirred up a storm across the realm, prompting secret meetings among various powers.

    "I just heard that the War Princess of the Endless Netherworld unlocked her Nine-Tiered Bloodline, a talentparable to a Heavenly Sun Child. In the past, we''d all have thought of assassinating her, right? But now, no one''s paying her any mind! Instead, the Endless Netherworld is more eager for both Exiled Sword Immortals to perish, hoping their darling daughter triumphs in the end," Qingzanmented.

    "Is that so?" The Withered Bone Keeper''s eyes glowed with a dull yellow sword energy. He too gazed downwards, speaking calmly, "Let''s wait until thest couple of rounds are over."

    Two hours passed, filled with tension. To the east, dawn broke, its rays illuminating thend! Finally, a new day had arrived. Yet, for some reason, the Sword Ruins remained engulfed in dark clouds, as if haunted by countless specters and evil spirits, their malevolent aura pressing down, stirring endless killing intent in the hearts of those below.

    "Breaking through two stages in quick session, not bad," Yun Xiao remarked. With the help of the upgraded Heavenly Dao Sariras, he''d reached the end of the Eight Mortal Realms. He was at the Establishment stage of the Awakened Emperor Realm!

    In just a short month, Yun Xiao had blitzed forward, breaking through the 40 stages of the Eight Mortal Realms! Now, standing before him was the first major hurdle in the human cultivation systemforming the Dao Heart!

    Breaking through four stages in just a day, Yun Xiao''s current cultivation speed was iparable to when he first stepped foot into Azure Spirit.

    Yun Xiao could feel the immense power of his Primordial Void Technique coursing through him, his belief in his abilities stronger than ever.

    "Bluey, if I ascend any higher, can I still return to the Divine Continent?" Yun Xiao suddenly pondered this crucial question.

    "Don''t worry, no matter how powerful you get, I can smuggle you back in the coffin if necessary," Blue Star assured him.

    "That''s a relief." Yun Xiao, having been away from Azure Spirit for quite some time, was beginning to miss the taste of Daughter''s Red.

    "Fae" Mu Xiaolong pouted, standing nearby, "Was it really necessary to take such a big risk just to make it to the finals?"

    "Why do you think I''m taking a risk?" Yun Xiao stood up, smiling as he asked.

    "The Divine Sigil Rankings is a bit morepetitive than our Immortal Sword Rankings. That woman, Fu Die, is ranked third on their list. Herbat power is nearly on par with our previous champion, Yi Qingfan. Her Deep Abyss Sigil has over 3,000 Runes!" Mu Xiaolong exined.

    "Fu Die?" Yun Xiao found the name a bit awkward to pronounce. As for the Runes, they were like the Sword Aura of a Sword Soul, but different in that these Runes were inscribed by the Inscription Cultivators themselves, unrted to demons.

    "Yeah! She has several young Inscription Cultivators with her, ranked fourth, fifth, and sixth in the Divine Sigil Rankings. Each one''s strength is at the Perfect Dao Heart Realm. Ku Xin was just in the Late Dao Heart Realm," Mu Xiaolong said, astonished. "You''re practically taking on five champions of the Immortal Sword Rankings by yourself. Some people are saying you''re too arrogant, and it''s really pissing me off."

    "There''s no doubt about the oue of the battle. All they''ve done is go out of their way to deliver their heads to me," Yun Xiao remarked. As the time for the next round drew near, heposed himself, his gaze focused as he looked down from the viewing tower. "I''m actually quite curious about the techniques of these Inscription Cultivators."

    Hearing these words, Mu Dalong, standing beside him, rxed slightly. She softly said to her daughter, "Xiaolong, let''s just enjoy Exile Yun''s performance. There''s no need to be nervous. Enjoy the show."

    "Don''t pretend like you''re not nervous too. You screamed like a bat out of hell when that nasty woman showed up!" Mu Xiaolong retorted.

    "Ah, you rascal," Mu Dalong couldn''t help but smile and shake her head.

    As the mother-daughter duo chatted, Yun Xiao had already descended from the viewing tower and calmly stepped onto the arena.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The battle tform shook violently, causing a ripple of shock among the over two million spectating Sword Cultivators. After two hours of silence, the show was about to begin!

    Ling Chen hadn''t made an appearance yet. He probably wanted to see Yun Xiao fight this battle before he took the stage himself.

    In an instant, countless eyes were fixed on Yun Xiao, from the Sword Warden and the Withered Bone Keeper to the Overseers and guests from the Cmity Seal Purgatory.

    Qingzan sat with several elders from the Cmity Seal Purgatory atop the viewing tower, watching intently. These Inscription Cultivators were the parents and ancestors of the young Inscription Cultivator prodigies. In the Cmity Seal Purgatory, they also held positions equal to Supreme Adjudicators and Overseers.

    The atmosphere was tense, charged with anticipation!

    As Yun Xiao made his entrance, he was soon faced with five radiant, deeply charismatic young prodigiesone Sword Cultivator and four Inscription Cultivators. There were no cheers for them; after all, this was the territory of the Sword Cultivators. It was a silent duel, a battle observed in hushed anticipation. Perhaps some supported Yun Xiao, but only inwardly.

    The waters were deep, and without firsthand information, anyone with a bit of sense dared not take sides prematurely. Support whoever won! That was the prevalent mindset.

    Under this oppressive atmosphere, even the five prodigies appeared stoic, their auras heavy, eyes brimming with lethal intent. Only Yun Xiao, casual and rxed, walked towards them. In his hand, he held a three-foot azure de enveloped in 10,001yers of Sword Aura, not uttering a word as he pressed forward.

    Yun Xiao allowed the opponents to call for reinforcements, and it appeared they believed that five was enough. There were two other powerful Inscription Cultivators from the Divine Sigil Rankings missing. However, they had no way of making it to the Eternal Sword Prison by the start of the 11th round. As for any others who could take part in the battle, they would be nothing more than cannon fodder. Their presence would make no difference.

    "Inscription Cultivators excel in forming arrays and trapping their opponents. I wonder if Exile Yun is prepared for this?"

    The crowd held its breath, watching with bated anticipation.

 Chapter 284: Flying Fish, Dragon Slash, Soaring Immortal!

    Chapter 284: Flying Fish, Dragon sh, Soaring Immortal!

    Attack! Fu Die, the girl in the green dress,manded her boyfriend and three senior brothers!

    Yun Xiao had already witnessed the prowess of Yi Qingfan, whose Sword Soul could amodate six Sword Rings, equal in quality to a Sword Warden. With 3,000yers of Sword Aura which rivaled a Supreme Adjudicator, he was undoubtedly an extraordinary prodigy.

    However, Yun Xiao waspletely uninterested. What intrigued him more were the Life Sigils.

    Without a doubt, these five youths had spent the past two hours discussing their strategy and tactics. As soon as the match kicked off, they quickly arranged themselves like a well-oiled machine, forming a battle formation.

    Two stood at the front. One was the agile Yi Qingfan, wielding his sword and hovering around hispanion like an assassin. Hispanion at the vanguard, a burly youth d in blue battle armor, stood like a general on the battlefielda veritable meat shield!

    Behind the blue armored youth and Yi Qingfan, the remaining three Inscription Cultivators formed a triangle.

    Fu Die led the charge, with the other two at her back. One in a plum robe, the other in beigeboth men of heroic appearance, deep eyes, and a proud air, clearly of noble lineage.

    Together, the five youths formed a 2-1-2 formation!

    Yun Xiao, having seen the formations of the Nine Heavens Immortal Army, was surprised to see these Inscription Cultivators adapt so seamlessly to small-scale squadbat.

    Their precise coordination is indeed more challenging than a simple mob attack," Yun Xiao remarked to himself. In this regard, he had underestimated them. Of course, they weren''t here to simply throw their lives away!

    The core of the five''s strategy undoubtedly revolved around the Life Sigils!

    <em>BUZZ! BUZZ! BUZZ! BUZZ! </em>As expected, the moment the formation was set, the strange patterns on the foreheads of the four Inscription Cultivators emerged, materializing into bizarre Life Sigils!

    This was Yun Xiao''s first encounter with Life Sigils! Compared to Sword Souls, these sigils seemed less tangible, almost ethereal, yet the runes etched upon them caused a dizzying effect to the onlooker.

    These runes writhed like serpents, seeming almost alive! Though separated from the cultivators'' bodies, they remained intricately connected through an invisible web of runic threads.

    Sword Cultivators wielded Sword Intent, but Inscription Cultivators? Their Dao Hearts seem to transform into something equally mysticalSigil Intent!

    At the heart of these Life Sigils, Sigil Intent formed the core, taking on bizarre and varied shapes.

    Sword Intent was direct and straightforward. However, Sigil Intent utilized runes to weave thews and mysteries of the world together, making them even more adept at invoking the devastating powers of heaven and earth!

    This was the Inscription Cultivator''s edge!

    "Thunder Shield Sigil, descend!" The burly youth with the blue armor at the vanguard reached for a sigil entwined with blue lightning snakes and mmed it onto his chest!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Thunder Shield Sigil activated, morphing into threeyers of dense electric shields, merging perfectly with the man''s body. He transformed into a creature of lightning, thunder personified, exuding an aura of untamed closebat prowess.

    Clearly, this was the ingenious application of a Life Sigil!

    "No wonder he''s at the vanguard. He''s basically their tank." Yun Xiao clicked his tongue.

    As the Thunder Shield Sigil took effect, the Life Sigils of the other three Inscription Cultivators also buzzed into motion.

    Fu Die, at the core of the battle formation, attached her Deep Abyss Sigil to a magic treasurethe Silva grade Hundred Blossoms Underworld Fan! The fusion of the Life Sigil and magic treasure unleashed beastly, abyssal shadows, dying the fan in the darkness!

    Fu Die hadn''t even waved the enchanted Underworld Fan yet, but a chilling aura already swept across the battlefield.

    This was the second ingenious use of a Life Sigil!

    "Skyfire Sigil!" The youth in the plum robe used his Life Sigil to amplify his daoist spell, bolstering the killing power.

    "Dreamy Mist Sigil!" The youth in the beige robe merged his Life Sigil into his eyes. A buzzing sound rang out as his pupils transformed into swirling vortexes, densely covered in runic symbols.

    "Four Inscription Cultivators, showing off four different uses of Life Sigils in one go? How kind of them!" Yun Xiao quipped. Experiencing it firsthand, he swiftly concludedLife Sigils were indeed impressive!

    Strength was one thing, but their ingenious applications were another.

    Yun Xiao''s interest in Life Sigils was not just for their power but also to specte about the mysteries of the Demon Continent! While he was still observing, the burly, blue armored youth, now a storm of blue lightning snakes, charged right towards him!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Like a titanic beast, the burly youth stormed across the battlefield, shaking the ground with every step. His body, a maelstrom of wild lightning, transformed the entire arena into a colossal sphere of electric fury!

    With a thunderous roar, heunched a ferocious punch straight at Yun Xiao''s face!

    Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed, and his three-foot azure de thrust forward, tearing through space itself. Where the de passed, the air cracked and splintered.

    <em>KLANG! </em>His Heaven Burial Sword Soul shed with the lightning-empowered fist. The chaotic power sent Yun Xiao flying backward, engulfed in a maelstrom of raging thunder!

    Such a violent strike instantly drew gasps from the two million spectators!

    Yun Xiao quickly cast the Wuji Dao Art with a flick of his wrist. Immediately, the thousands of lightning snakes enveloping him were pulled into a vortex, condensing in his hand.

    Just as this tumultuous orb of lightning took shape, a cold sword light aimed for Yun Xiao''s right templea seemingly simple attack, yet unpredictable and deadly. The assassin had arrived!

    Yi Qingfan''s strike was swift, his swordy merely the culmination of his approach.

    "Pretty fast," Yun Xiao said. Without even sparing him a nce, he redirected the lightning orb with a flick, detonating it!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The explosion of lightning snakes forced Yi Qingfan to retreat hastily.

    However, Yun Xiao''s crisis was far from over! In the next moment, a massive abyssal storm loomed over him, a shadow crashing down on his forehead!

    It was the Underworld Fan, enhanced by the Deep Abyss Sigil, cracking the very ground beneath Yun Xiao''s feet without even touching him!

    Meanwhile, the man in the plum robe, wielding the Skyfire Sigil, blew a breath of air!

    <em>ROAR! </em>The Life Sigil unleashed nine fiery dragons, hurtling towards Yun Xiao!

    Yet, the deadliest threat was yet toe. Behind Fu Die, two eyes transformed into pale, ghostly vortexes, like gates to the underworld, devouring Yun Xiao''s very soul!

    "Nine Dragons Roar!"

    "And the Life Sigil Ocr Technique, Twin Ghostly Dreams!

    In rapid session, gasps of astonishment echoed around.

    Thebined assault of these five was intense and ferocious, every move a potential death blow. Even a Peak Master surpassing the Dao Heart Realm would hesitate to im they could withstand such a precisely coordinated onught!

    After the Underworld Fan, Nine Dragons Roar, and Twin Ghostly Dreams, the burly youth in blue armor and Yi Qingfan resumed their relentless assault. One led the charge; the other struck from the shadows!

    Yun Xiao appeared to be in quite the dire predicament!

    "Die, demon spawn!"

    "Serves him right!"

    The tens of thousands of justice-seekers watched with bated breath, their eyes aze with a glimmer of hope. That said, with the majority of the attackers being Inscription Cultivators, they were much more reserved this time around.

    Not bad. Yun Xiao''s eyes suddenly sharpened, and a lethal intent blossomed. "My turn now!

    Amidst the airtight assault of Life Sigils, Yun Xiao''s figure shifted dramatically. His white robe billowed out, and he transformed into hundreds of illusions, flickering across the battlefield!

    That''s the highest form of the Wuji Dao ArtsIllusion! an Overseer of the Sword Ruins shouted, instantly identifying the daoist spell.

    Illusion that''s already touching the realm of an Ignis grade daoist spell!

    With this single move, Yun Xiao, who seemed overwhelmed, now appeared to be the one besieging his opponents!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Underworld Fan and Nine Dragons'' Roar struck nothing but air, shattering the battleground!

    The beige-robed youth''s Twin Ghostly Dreams also lost sight of its target.

    What are you looking at? A chilling voice suddenly sounded behind the beige-robed youth.

    Blue, protect me! The beige-robed youth spun around in retreat, conjuring a barrier of mist before himanother insta-cast daoist spell!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The burly youth in blue armor surged forward, a tempest of blue lightning in his wake. His body, augmented by the Thunder Shield Sigil, expanded to block Yun Xiao and protect the beige-robed youth.

    "You think that can stop me from killing him?" Yun Xiao stood in the wind, his sword striking with lethal precision!

    <em>POP! POP! POP! </em>His azure Flying Sword spun out like a Taiji fish gliding through water, elerating with each bounce in the air!

    However, that wasn''t the most terrifying part. At one point, as the Taiji fish skittered across the air, it ripped through the void, vanishing from everyone''s sight!

    "Where did the Flying Sword go?" The beige-robed youth''s eyes swirled with vortexes, his heart pounding wildly.

    Suddenly, the void in front of him split open!

    A streak of azure light, tracing a Taiji pattern, appeared before him!

    Eh? The beige-robed youth''s soul trembled in terror! The Flying Sword had bypassed the Thunder Shield Sigil and reappeared right in front of his eyes. Before he could even scream, the azure light pierced his eyeball and burst out the back of his skull!

    <em>POOF! </em>The Flying Sword whistled shrilly as it sliced through the air!

    A spray of red and white matter scattered!

    <em>THUD! </em>The beige-robed youth fell straight back, the light in his remaining eye quickly fading. Only one emotion colored that pupilfear!

    This scene, like a hammer blow, struck the minds of all who witnessed it. They weren''t just shocked by Yun Xiao''s killing. What truly terrified them was the inconceivable means he used to kill!

    "There''s no suspense left. Once one falls, the rest stand no chance," an Overseer concluded solemnly.

    "Is it really that exaggerated?"

    "Remember, although Exile Yun has been maligned, he made the Eternal Sword hum 100,000 times... Even if that number isn''t urate, he might be even more fearsome than Exile Ling."

    "Yes..."

    In the hearts of many, a quiet shift of allegiance towards Yun Xiao took ce amidst their inner turmoil.

    "Senior Brother Lingtong!" When Fu Die and the others turned to look, they were struck as if by lightning, their eyes widening in shock.

    "Stay together, behind me!" The burly youth in blue armor roared, his voice tinged with the unmistakable fear of death. His squad''s recent onught might have impressed the young spectators, but Yun Xiao remained unyielding!

    "Think you''re tough, do you?" Yun Xiao said. As his figure blurred, he reappeared in front of the burly youth.

    "Pentagram Thunder, die!" The burly youth''s Thunder Shield Sigil flickered, summoning countless thunderbolts. He roared and charged at Yun Xiao, as if all the thunder in the world was hurtling towards him!

    Yun Xiao''s expression remained unchanged. With a sword in hand, he gracefully shed down. A grand Taiji diagram unfolded behind him, transforming into a ck and white dragon coiling around his Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    "Taiji Dragon sh!"

    Many Overseers instantly recognized the sword technique Yun Xiao had unleashed.

    Taiji Flying Fish was a Flying Sword technique,

    Taiji Dragon sh was a Palm Sword technique.

    Yet, just like the earlier enigmatic Taiji Flying Fish, this Taiji Dragon sh was utterly transformed!

    <em>HUM! </em>Yun Xiao''s sword split the heavens, engulfing the Pentagram Thunder. The ck and white dragon twisted around his azure de, striking directly at the burly youth''s forehead!

    "Thunder Shield Sigil!" The burly youth in blue armor gritted his teeth in defiance!

    Heaven Burial''s 10,001yers of Sword Aura shrieked, tearing through the tripleyered thunder shield!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With one devastating blow, the burly youth was cleaved in two! The two halves of his body fell apart, sshing the arena with blood. Even his Thunder Shield Sigil buzzed and disintegrated amidst heaven and earth, its destruction mourned by countless bolts of lightning!

    "Senior Brother Blue..." Yi Qingfan, Fu Die, and the youth in the plum robe were utterly dumbstruck. The fierce killing intent they had just a moment ago was doused in cold water!

    <em>Retreat! Escape! </em>The trio didn''t voice these words, but their hearts screamed them. The youth in white before them, like an indifferent arbiter of the heavens, instilled in them what true fear meant.

    This was the heavenly decree of the Creator Immortal!

    "Think you can escape?" Yun Xiao said. In a sh, he sprang into action, his three-foot azure de transforming instantly into a six-foot Sovereign Sword!

    He elegantly stepped onto the de, speeding towards them with terrifying velocity, sonic booms trailing in his wake, each dispersing into Taiji patterns!

    This was the ultimate chapter of Taiji Sword ArtTaiji Soaring Immortal!

    Flying Fish! Dragon sh! Soaring Immortal!

    With the demonstration of these three moves, silence fell over the crowd!

    Time seemed to slow down. The spectators watched, agape, as Yun Xiao instantly caught up to the man in the plum robe, his body exploding into a mist of blood on impact!

    <em>POP! POP! POP! </em>Then, that six-foot Sovereign Sword, like a galloping steed, found its way to Fu Dies chest, who turned in shock!

    "You... mom!" Fu Die, terror-stricken, nced at Yun Xiao and then sought help from Qingzan outside. But to her dismay, the barrier was sealed tightly, leaving no chance for anyone to enter in time.

    "I, the princess of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, must... must..." Fu Die''s beautiful face twisted in fear and turned pale.

    "Save your words for the next life," Yun Xiao said calmly. Standing on his six-foot Sovereign Sword, he thrust forward fiercely, dragging her against the barrier''s inner wall. A bloody hole burst opened in her chest.

    "Ah!" Fu Die slid down slowly, her face a picture of misery.

    As the body of the girl hit the ground, Yun Xiao''s gaze met Qingzan''s outside the barrier. Frozen in horror, her eyes were filled with killing intent. Trembling and eyes splitting with rage, she red at him.

    Yun Xiao looked up at her, his gaze calm yet filled with disdain.

    This look of contempt sent Qingzan''s fury soaring beyond limits.

    "I''ll make sure you meet a fate worse than death!" Qingzan dered.

    "Keep it for your family," Yun Xiao replied indifferently, turning away from her. He walked towards Yi Qingfan, carrying his Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "Die''er!" For Yi Qingfan, a scene like this was unimaginable in the blessed life he''d lived so far. He knelt down, eyes vacant, staring hopelessly at the body of his beloved.

    "In the struggle for the Immortal Dao, the naive and willfully ignorant die first. Every cultivator must pay the price for their choices," Yun Xiao said, standing before him.

    "But but you said you wouldnt kill me..." Yi Qingfan raised his trembling head, looking at Yun Xiao as if seeing a nightmare.

    "Ive changed my mind." With those words, Yun Xiao''s sword pierced through Yi Qingfan''s throat.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 285 - Sword Commanding the Void, Unrivaled in the Cosmos!

    <h4>Chapter 285 - Sword Commanding the Void, Unrivaled in the Cosmos!</h4>

    This was a massacre, the likes of which would make the devil himself blush!

    The few humbled the many in a disy of surreal might. As Yi Qingfan,st year''s champion of the Immortal Sword Rankings, fell before Yun Xiao, the entire Sword Ruins seemed to freeze in shock.

    The eyes of over two million Sword Cultivators trembled, staring at the young man whose beauty was both cold and elegant, as a storm of emotions raged in their hearts.

    Then, as if a dam had burst, a cacophony of voices swept through the crowd like a tempest, their words indiscernible. All eyes were locked on Yun Xiao, their gazes transformed in awe and fear, whispering, "A true Immortal!"

    Even the justice-seekers, tens of thousands in number, instinctively bowed their heads, gripping their fists tightly, unable to meet the glorious radiance emanating from Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Every Nine Hells Conquest sh, our young prodigies are overshadowed by those of the Cmity Seal Purgatory. But today, before the sh even began, Exile Yun has single-handedly in four of their top six talents! And he did it five against one!"

    This moment was sweet revenge for those long humiliated by the arrogant Inscription Cultivators. It was exhrating!

    The visiting elders from the Cmity Seal Purgatory, however, were engulfed in a fury of resentment. Surrounded by their peers, their eyes burned with a murderous red.

    ¡°The Sigil Warden''s daughter... Losing these four youngsters is a generational loss for us in the Cmity Seal Purgatory!¡±

    Their insides felt as if they were being torn apart, bleeding internally. Their minds were probably seething with rage. If it weren''t for the presence of the Sword Ruins Overseers nearby, how could they contain such a monumental loss?

    "Those who wish to kill me must first descend to hell. On the battlefield, we are responsible for our own lives and deaths," Yun Xiao dered, his sword drawn and a slight smirk on his lips. "ept your defeat gracefully, and don''t take it to heart. Let''s not let this affect the friendship between our two hells."

    With these words, he effectively snuffed out any chance of immediate retaliation from the aggrieved party.

    ¡°Exile Yun is right. This whole affair had nothing to do with the Cmity Seal Purgatory. They sought their own demise. Who can they me?"

    "If they didn''t want to offend Exile Yun, why did they choose to fight?"

    ¡°To the Inscription Cultivators, if you can''t stomach it, just stew in your own juices!"

    Laughter and jeers followed, merciless and unrelenting.

    Atst, the Sword Cultivators, who had long borne insults and burdens, finally had their moment of exhration.

    Even amidst the malicious rumors, Yun Xiao''s reputation in the Sword Ruins soared wildly. His image, icy and fiercely independent, was etched into the hearts of many Sword Cultivators.

    In contrast, Ling Chen was pushed off to the sidelines. Yet, he remained unperturbed, his sharpness hidden beneath a calm exterior.

    With the demise of the five prodigies, Yun Xiao found himself at the epicenter of the struggle in the Nine Hells.

    "He may be rash, but he''s undeniably powerful," Zhang Mu murmured, eyeing the white-robed youth before him, a chill running through his heart.

    For a moment, even he felt a twinge of fear. Sadly, he''d already pledged his allegiance. There was no turning back now.

    ¡°Exile Yun shines bright, while Exile Ling ys it close to the vest. Thetter''s low profile and smoother dealings suggest that if both are reincarnations of true Immortals, the one with the higher intellect will more likely rise to the top of the Nine Hells...¡± As Zhang Mu sorted this out, his awe of Yun Xiao turned into a sneer. Though momentarily intimidated, he knew he was stronger as an Overseer.

    Ku Xuan, sharing simr thoughts, stood beside the Overseer Sikong. ¡°When two tigers sh, one is bound to get hurt. Our Eternal Sword Prison must unite to face the threats from the other hells. We must resolve our internal strife quickly,¡± he said coolly.

    ¡°If one of the Exiled Sword Immortals doesn''t perish, we risk being broken from within,¡± Overseer Sikong added, clear-headed.

    The choice of who must die was obvious to both. Yun Xiao had almost wiped out all their heirs!

    The attention of the two then turned to the viewing tower where Ling Chen was cultivating.

    ¡°After exchanging our rarest medicinal herbs with Du Zhongyuan for these Grove Essence Pills... I hope Exile Ling pulls through," Ku Xuan said nervously.

    ¡°Fear not, a true tiger doesn¡¯t bare its fangs prematurely,¡± Overseer Sikong replied darkly.

    Suddenly, a loud explosion erupted from Ling Chen¡¯s viewing tower. Everyone looked up to see a nine-colored cloud swirling in the sky, enveloping the entire Sword Ruins in a rainbow vortex.

    The vortex churned and twisted space itself, sending down rumbles that seemed tomand the heavens and earth.

    "This is the Dao Heart Phenomenon!" People gasped in shock, unable to contain their amazement.

    Hearing these words, faces lit up with the expression of witnessing history, their eyes filled with awe and envy as they gazed at the sky. "The Dao Heart Phenomenon, a legend of the Nine Hells, is said to be a miracle only the first realm master possessed. And indeed, he ascended to the heavens."

    "Exile Ling is truly the more mysterious and powerful one."

    This heaven epassing phenomenon drew all attention, focusing the limelight on Ling Chen. The murmurs of admiration were not unexpected to him. With a warm smile and a wave of his hand, the nine-colored clouds in the sky suddenly condensed into a beam of light, merging into his nine-colored Sword Soul.

    The young man rose into the air, enveloped in a cloud of light. His immense aura, even without striking a single blow, drew cheers from the crowd. With this Dao Heart Phenomenon, he effortlessly stole the spotlight from Yun Xiao.

    <i>BOOM! </i>At the center of his nine-colored Sword Soul, a nine-colored chessboard formed,prising nine squares, each like a separate world. Clearly, this was his Sword Intent.

    With a wave of his sword, the chessboard seemed to leap from the de, transforming into nine square worlds, forming a tangible barrier around him. And right in the center stood Ling Chen, a smile ying on his lips.

    "In my previous life, I reached the pinnacle of the Divine Sky Dao, thinking that was my limit. And I was ready to retread that same path in this life too," Ling Chen mused, his eyes sparkling with delight. "I never imagined this Nine Cosmos Sword would open new horizons for me, giving birth to the legendary Nine Cosmos Sword Intent. With it, surpassing my past peak is just a matter of time!"

    Even as a former Cosmic Immortal, the emergence of this Nine Cosmos Sword Intent thrilled him.

    "The ultimate Dao of Space, the foundation of all life! As I walk across heaven and earth, wielding the Nine Cosmos Sword Intent, who in this vast world can stand against me?" Ling Chen eximed. He recalled an ancient prophecy, muttering to himself, "Swordmanding the void, unrivaled in the cosmos!

    "In other words, this is the true invincible Sword Intent. Driven by an invincible heart, unbeatable in spirit, I could extinguish worlds and countless lives with a single stroke. I''m unmatched through the ages!"

    Ling Chen immersed himself in the profound mysteries of the Nine Cosmos Sword Intent, experiencing the eternal cosmos like never before; his thoughts could shake the heavens. Man, sword, and intent all became one.

    Two million Sword Cultivators gazed upwards, awestruck by Ling Chen, who nowmanded a world of nine squares in the sky.

    "Exile Ling''s disy of supreme talent eclipses all the glory Exile Yun gained through his battles," Ku Xuan remarked with augh.

    "Does a true Immortal rely on mere bravery? Transcending the mundane, that is the true essence," Overseer Sikong nodded deeply.

    The nine-colored light enveloped the Sword Ruins, and all the Sword Cultivators watched, entranced, lost in a dreamlike state.

    ¡°Does Exile Ling''s defiance of the heavens change your mind?¡± the Withered Bone Keeper asked his granddaughter Qingzan with a relieved smile.

    "Let''s see him fight the other one first!" Qingzan replied with disgust. "What if they both perish in the fight?"

    "The other one?" The Withered Bone Keeper pursed his lips. "Today, Yun Xiao indeed transcends the ordinary, worthy of the title Exiled Sword Immortal. But where evil rises a foot, the righteous rises a yard."

    "You''ve got it backward," Qingzan retorted.

    The Withered Bone Keeper chuckled softly. "I deliberately said it the other way around."

    Since themencement of the Immortal Sword Rankings, his face finally rxed a bit as he spoke earnestly to Qingzan, "Facing Exile Ling, even the most stunning talents sigh at their misfortune of being born in the wrong era."

    "Grandfather, your praise of Exile Ling stems from your already chosen side. If you were unbiased, perhaps you wouldn''t be so optimistic," Qingzan replied coolly.

    The Withered Bone Keeper frowned again at her words. His gaze turned dark and malevolent as he looked at Yun Xiao. After a long silence, he said coldly, "Those who block my path deserve death."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Fae, what''s that thing?" Mu Xiaolong tugged at Yun Xiao''s sleeve, gazing at the nine-colored chessboard in the sky, her throat dry.

    "A fat sheep," Yun Xiao replied, his eyes shimmering with colorful light.

    "Huh?" Mu Xiaolong thought she misheard. Looking down, she muttered, "He''s shaken the Sword Ruins, stealing your thunder, and you call him a fat sheep?"

    Yun Xiao didn''t answer. Instead, he returned to his viewing tower and sat down cross-legged.

    "He has reached the Dao Heart Realm, even faster than me?" Yun Xiao was slightly surprised.

    "It''s just the Eight Mortal Realms, not much of a challenge for you or him. His speed is due to the enlightenment he retained from his past life and better resources," Blue Star said disdainfully.

    "All I got were Rank 10 Azure Phoenixes and 10,000 Immortal Jades. Indeed, the good stuff was taken by him first," Yun Xiao mused, undisturbed. Ling Chen might pressure him, but would not shake his resolve.

    "Now that I''ve reached the peak of the Eight Mortal Realms, I just need to form my Dao Heart. But what exactly is my Dao Heart?" Yun Xiao calmed himself, ignoring the outside chaos, recalling his month-long journey towards immortality.

    "Daughter''s Red, Tiger Rod Wine..." Yun Xiao muttered.

    "Are you reminiscing about your sex life or contemting the Immortal Dao?" Blue Star eximed.

    "Cough cough... my mistake, let''s try again."

    "Creator, use the smaller head to explore the path of immortality; it''s quite narrow after all, a perfect fit for you." Red Moon chuckled wickedly.

    "..." Yun Xiao started, a little offended.

    "Ah, mortals are all the same. They can never escape romantic affairs," Blue Star sighed.

    "What''s the point of cultivation and bing stronger? To strip away emotions and be an emotionless machine in the sky? Or evolve into aw of nature? Or return to being a desireless, chaotic being? How did you endure the long eons? Just sleeping away and relying on your coffin-like existence?" Yun Xiao asked seriously.

    "What''s your view, then?" Blue Star raised an eyebrow.

    "No beauty, no immortality. I''d rather die than not live with ir!"

 Chapter 286: Dao Heart Phenomenon Descends!

    Chapter 286: Dao Heart Phenomenon Descends!

    "I give up, I quit the fight!"

    As Ling Chen descended from the skies, Mu Qinghuan, the plump youngster who ced second inst year''s Immortal Sword Rankings, didn''t even think twice before throwing in the towel.

    Had Mu Qinghuan not witnessed Yi Qingfan''s fate, he might have been bold enough to stand his ground, to prove his worth.

    "As long as I surrender quick enough, my dao heart remains unscathed!" Mu Qinghuan chuckled to his father, Mu Daxiong, after stepping down.

    "This is a battlefield for true Immortals. Us mortals shouldn''t be up there, sticking our noses where they don''t belong. Some folks just don''t get that, and they pay with their lives," Mu Daxiong said, patting his son on the shoulder, proud of his frankness.

    "Exile Ling has just broken through. He''s in his show-off phase, and I''ve no intention of being a mere backdrop in his spectacle." Mu Qinghuanughed. He wasn''t arrogant, and that''s why he''s still alive.

    The overly proud, however, were already queued up for reincarnation.

    Yun Xiao had in five with one strike; Ling Chen had manifested a Dao Heart Phenomenon! Both Exiled Sword Immortals had proven their exceptional talents. Right after the Sword Baptism Ceremony, the two dominated the prodigies of the Eternal Sword Prison, storming into the top two of the Immortal Sword Rankings!

    Now with Mu Qinghuan conceding, only the biggest, most explosive question remained!

    Which one of these reincarnations of a true Immortal would reign supreme?

    The atmosphere in the Sword Ruins ignited once again!

    Everyone''s gaze, fervent and eager, fell upon Ling Chen, who stood unmoving in the arena, eyes closed, gripping his sword, immovable as a mountain. His demeanor alone conquered the crowd.

    "In contrast, Exile Yun seems to be cramming at thest minute, doesn''t he?"

    Following the rules, indeed, the battle was set tomence two hourster.

    "While that''s true, if Exile Yun had the guts to start right away, why make everyone wait? This little detail shows that, at least for now, the emergence of that Dao Heart Phenomenon has him feeling pressured," someonemented.

    "That makes sense," another agreed.

    During that long, two hour wait, the hearts of many people in the crowd underwent silent changes. Under the weight of Ling Chen''s demeanor, whispers of Yun Xiao being a demon spawn and possessing a Fiendish Sword Soul started floating around again, annoying as a fly buzzing in the ear.

    Clearly, the Ku Family wasying the groundwork to make Yun Xiao''s downfall go more smoothly.

    "He killed four Inscription Cultivators, severely damaging the rtionship between our two hells. Any future conflicts and losses among the Sword Cultivators will be on his head."

    "The two Hells of the human race, having just started walking towards mutual prosperity, now face such a saboteur..."

    Freshly minted usations quietly sprouted like poison, spreading among the crowd. Although most didn''t buy into it, the constant repetition had a brainwashing effect, grating on the nerves.

    "Exile Yun is too fierce, not sparing even a shred of mercy. If he continues like this, I fear the other eight hells will besiege the Sword Ruins."

    Heavy sighs echoed,den with worry for the future.

    "Exile Ling isn''t ying the hero, clearly showing more wisdom."

    "If you ask me, in the path of cultivation, wisdom in dealing with people is sometimes more important than talent or strength."

    People, looking at Ling Chen''s jade-like figure, felt a growing fondness.

    Mu Qinghuan, hearing this, scoffed with disdain. "Only the weak need to y politics. The strong crush all opposition! What do these mortals know about the path of a true Immortal? It''s like beggars guessing how many buns an Emperor eatsutterly ridiculous!"

    Despite Mu Qinhuan''s simple appearance, his eyes twinkled with cunning. His words, though they silenced some, couldn''t change the fact that Ling Chen, with the anomaly of his Dao Heart Phenomenon, was winning over more hearts.

    "Do you know why?" Mu Daxiong asked.

    "I don''t understand."

    "The weaker the heart, the less one can tolerate sharpness. The more one cowers, the weaker the spirit bes, more susceptible to being wounded by sharpness. In a narrow path, the brave wins; a single killing intent can naturally strike fear in everyone," Mu Daxiong said, gazing towards one of the viewing towers, speaking profoundly, "Exile Yun doesn''t seek the world''s respect with false courtesies. In his eyes, there''s only his path; everything else is mere illusion. He doesn''t care."

    "Dad, how can you understand him so well?" Mu Qinghuan asked.

    "His eyes," Mu Daxiong said meaningfully, "In Exile Yun''s eyes, there''s only one sword, straight and pure. While in Exile Ling''s eyes, there''s a convergence of a thousand swords."

    "Isn''t a thousand swords stronger than one?" Mu Qinghuan asked.

    Mu Daxiong shook his head with a smile. "Even among reincarnated Immortals, there are levels. A thousand swords signify too many thoughts, scattered like sand."

    "Dad, you''re incredible, even analyzing Immortals?" Mu Qinghuan remarked, astonished.

    Mu Daxiong chuckled. "Easy there, I''m just theorizing."

    "Damn, and here I thought I was the hidden offspring of an Immortal!" Mu Qinghuan muttered, his excitement deted. He looked deeply into the crowd, listening to the whispers, and asked, "Exile Yun conquered the masses by battling five, so why do they now lean towards Exile Ling? Just because of the Dao Heart Phenomenon?"

    "The world is always full of fools; it''s the constraint of the Heavenly Dao. Otherwise, if everyone were wise and enlightened, who would make up themon folk?" Mu Daxiong smiled wryly. "Themon people are like leeks, ready to be harvested. Don''t follow the crowd blindly."

    "Got it!" Mu Qinghuan nodded deeply.

    Sure enough, the public''s interest in Ling Chen surged like a tidal wave after the emergence of the Dao Heart Phenomenon. Standing directly on the battlefield, he exuded a readiness to fight at any moment, overshadowing Yun Xiaopletely!

    "Exile Ling has seven Hell Demon Sword Rings on his Sword Soul!"

    "I wonder if his Sword Soul is Yin or Yang grade?"

    "Definitely the supreme Yang grade!"

    "Does anyone know what demon magic each of these seven Sword Rings carries?"

    As soon as the question was raised, the answers came quickly.

    The seven demon magic wereAzure Heaven Firestorm, Illusory Moon, Netherworld Ghostwater, Bone Thunder''s Spark, Blood Inheritance''s Ghostfire, Necropolis Lament, and Seven Worlds Fox Heart.

    These seven Hell Demons were once unrivaled powerhouses in the Primeval Demon Hell, hailing from mighty lineages such as the Azure Phoenix, Frostmoon Wraith, and Netherworld Abyss Serpent. Their demon magic swirled around Ling Chen''s nine-colored Sword Soul. Even in a subdued state, they radiated an air of solemnity,ment, eeriness, and chilliness.

    Ling Chen has yet to truly unleash the might of these seven demon magics! His aura at this moment has already far surpassed Yun Xiao''s feat of defeating five!

    "Could Exile Ling, in that earlier battle, have taken down ten with a single strike?"

    "It''s highly likely!"

    "I''ve heard some Peak Masters say they don''t feel up to par with Exile Ling."

    "It seems like whoever reached the Dao Heart Realm first will be the deciding factor between these two Exiled Sword Immortals!"

    "I wonder if they''ll fight to the death once the timees?"

    Many people sensed a whiff of bloodshed from the previous encounters between the two Sword Exiled Sword Immortals.

    "Exile Yun is too arrogant, it''s about time someone put him in his ce."

    "I heard he once saved Exile Ling''s life, is that true?"

    "That''s just a rumor! It''s been debunked already! On the other hand, the rumors about him being a demon spawn and people being silenced that''s obviously all true! Don''t be fooled, someone dug up Exile Yun''s ancestors, and it turns out they were all viins, involved in countless heinous deeds."

    "Let''s be honest, no matter how terrifying Exile Yun''s talent is, the fact that his mother wasn''t exactly virtuous is true"

    People never imagined these two hours would feel so long. Their patience was wearing thin, and the discussion was getting wilder and wilder!

    Compared to Ling Chen, they were like ants on a hot pan, clearly dissatisfied with Yun Xiao not initiating the battle sooner.

    "Are they going to fight or not?"

    "If they''re not fighting, just forget it!"

    "The time for the final battle is almost here, is he going to just keep waiting if he doesn''t break through?"

    During this time, those tens of thousands of young justice-seekers finally found their voice, whispering fervently. They were so engrossed in their discussions that they failed to notice how clownish they appeared.

    "Exile Yun, stop dawdling,e out and fight!" Someone grew bolder, shouting at the top of their lungs, elicitingughter from many. Just as they were jeering andughing, a thunderous explosion resonated throughout the arena.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The deafening sound, like a raging storm, swept through the air.

    Hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators were blown away, scattering in all directions!

    This startling upheaval originated from the viewing tower where Yun Xiao was located, causing an earthquake in the Sword Ruins!

    "What''s happening?" Everyone looked up, and millions of eyes were met with a scene that left them dumbstruck!

    A colossal sword, embodying the will of a million swords, surged skyward! The brilliance of this gigantic sword lit up the Sword Ruins in an instant, casting its splendid light over the 999 sword-shaped peaks!

    "The Eternal Sword?!" Everyone, including Ling Chen, the Sword Warden, and the Withered Bone Keeper, was utterly astounded.

    Faces of amazement were painted in the colors of the Eternal Sword! Unseen by them, at the very heart of this Eternal Sword, there nestled a small ck sword...

    "How can the will of a million swords appear above Exile Yun?" Just as this peculiar thought crossed their minds, the age-old Eternal Sword underwent a transformation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>This multicolored giant sword exploded!

    It turned into millions of colorful lights, suddenly obscuring the sky!

    <em>POP! POP! POP! </em>Countless colorful clouds appeared, condensing under the light of the shattered fragment of the Eternal Sword. In an instant, the entire sky above the Eternal Sword Prison was shrouded in colorful clouds! The sky seemed to blossom into a dazzling, colorful celestial lotus!

    "Is this is this also a Dao Heart Phenomenon?" Mu Qinghuan asked, his voice trembling with excitement.

    "Absolutely!!" Mu Daxiong''s eyes zed like torches as he grabbed his son''s arm, eximing, "Exile Ling''s Dao Heart Phenomenon covered just the Sword Ruins, and Exile Yun''s covers the entire Eternal Sword Prison!"

    "Dad, that''s an area difference of more than 1,000 times" Mu Qinghuan felt numb all over.

    "And it''s triggered by the Eternal Sword? Has Exile Yun?" Mu Daxiong didn''t dare to finish his thought.

    A Dao Heart Phenomenon, spanning the entire Eternal Sword Prison!

    This sight weighed down on everyone''s heads like ten thousand mountains!

    Ling Chen, the Withered Bone Keeper, Qingzan, and others seemed to be plunged into an icy abyss, motionless.

    The tens of thousands of young justice-seekers, who were just excitedly chatting, now looked as if they had been pped thousands of times. Their faces swollen, they nearly bit their tongues.

    Even the ordinary Sword Cultivators, who kept their thoughts to themselves, were now baffled, unable toprehend what was happening.

    "Dad!" Mu Qinghuan suddenly shouted, screaming, "The Dao Heart Phenomenon anomaly is still expanding!"

    "What?"

    Countless people, already numb, looked up in shock! They couldn''t see how far this colorful celestial lotus had expanded, only that it was still growing! And if it was growing, didn''t that mean it was still expanding? Remember, the skies of the Nine Hells were all interconnected!

    <em>BOOM!</em>

    The world changed colors!

    They had no idea that, at this moment, the entire sky of the Nine Hells was blooming with a dazzling, colorful, sky-burying lotus<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 287: Worldly Dao Heart!

    Chapter 287: Worldly Dao Heart!

    "Dao Heart?"

    As the cultivators of the Nine Hells were mesmerized by the stunning visual feast of the azure-coloured celestial lotus, Yun Xiao plunged into his sea of consciousness, entering a state of trance.

    Right there, in his heart, his Dao Heart was taking shape!

    Prior to this, Yun Xiao had experienced the formation of a Demon Heart and a Devil Heart, but the birth of the Dao Heart within his true self was a wholly different sensation.

    The Demon Heart symbolized the Divine Destion Demon God, while the Devil Heart embodied the Mortal Dust Devil. These hearts were undoubtedly linked to the cultivation techniques that Moon Fairy and the War Princess practiced.

    "So, how is it? Is your Dao Heart dominated by the deathly thoughts of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, or the primordial true intent of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor?" Blue Star couldn''t help but ask.

    With the Creator Immortal born anew, it was uncertain what path Yun Xiao would choose. And hints of that path would start showing at the birth of his Dao Heart.

    "Hmm. It''s neither purely Heaven Burial, nor solely the Primordial; it epasses both," Yun Xiao murmured, his eyes closed, as he deeply felt the marvel of this newly formed Dao Heart.

    It was a mark, white and circr, resting upon his heart, radiating a sense of pure, unblemished perfection.

    The Dao unified all, immovable as a mountain, seamless and imprable.

    Yet, within this pure andplete Dao Heart, Yun Xiao saw faces, mortal experiences, stories of living beings In this Dao Heart, he was like a passerby crossing a tribtion; every figure he saw was a trial.

    The Cloud Nation, Azure Spirit, the Sea of Swords, the Heavenly Realm, the Sword Ruins... He remembered everything with crystal rity.

    In the bustling streets, the peddlers and errand runners, a mayfly skimming over the waters of the Azure Spirit, a single flower from the Heavenly Realm... all were etched in his heart.

    The Primordial brought life; Heaven Burial heralded death!

    Life and death formed the scaffold of his Dao Heart, with the world and all its beingshumans, beasts, all living things and their wrath, greed, and foolishness, along with profound love and affectionwoven within.

    "What exactly is it? It''s not some trash Dao Heart, is it? This thing''s crucial, it''s your ticket to climb thedder to immortality. Without it, you can''t step onto the path of an Immortal," Blue Star fretted, his voice tinged with urgency.

    "I don''t know what it is," Yun Xiao admitted. He could feel the Dao Heart''s role; it was a bridge connecting cultivators with the Dao Heart Realm, the core of will, the essence of understanding.

    He tried to connect with the universe through this heart, and for a moment, all things and eternal time were within his grasp. In this world, beyond power andws, there was so much more.

    "Perhaps, the Creator Immortal crafted the Dao Heart Realm and all beings, but never truly understood his own creations, hence his confusion?" Yun Xiao muttered, as his heart raced. Through the Dao Heart, he felt something special. "This Dao Heart, it''s like an eye, a notebook, recording everything on this journey..."

    Would he use this <em>notebook</em> as his pass, to forge himself anew? He wasn''t sure. His heart was riddled with puzzles. The only clear thing was that he wasn''t remotely divine in thought; he was more like a pure mortal bestowed with the greatest gift. Not a rebirth like Ling Chen, with goals and hatred!

    "Then, let''s name it Worldly Dao Heart!" Yun Xiao remarked, his eyes lighting up with rity. Although he was still confused about many things, his heart soon lit the path forward.

    "The end of the story holds the answer. Pointless fussing and predicting can never rece the journey itself. Observing, listening to everything around us with this Worldly Dao Heart, I''ll continue to grow, experiencing joys and tribtions, and ascend the Heavenly Dao. In this way, it will be a life well lived.

    "To live again is already a fortunate thing. What more could I ask for?

    "In life, one first seeks rity, then tranquility, and the Dao Heart will naturally follow.

    "And so, I will be a carefree wanderer above the clouds!"

    At the moment his Dao Heart was born, a smile crept across Yun Xiao''s face. The breath of indignation that set him on this journey still lingered in his chest, but the Dao Heart was like the vast ocean behind him, providing a solid backing.

    "With the Dao Heart formed, the Sword Intent arises!" Yun Xiao eximed. It was only then that he turned his attention to the celestial lotus above his head, especially the strand of ck Sword Intent at its heart.

    The Sword Intent of a million ancestors swirled into a dazzling vortex, encircling the ck Sword Intent, depicting the cycle of life and death.

    <em>HUM! </em>Without a second thought, d in billowing white robes, Yun Xiao soared into the sky. His dashing figure momentarily drew thunderous cheers from the millions of Sword Cultivators in the Sword Ruins.

    Those admiring and fervent gazes were etched into his Worldly Dao Heart, his notebook.

    The wavering and shifting hearts of millions were the nourishment for the Worldly Dao Heart.

    The mockery, adoration, spection, envy... Each face, each subtle difference in their eyes, was a lesson in life for Yun Xiao.

    "Born selfish, each harbors their own thoughts. Fools speak rashly, the wise waver; all stem from the heart. The end of countless Dao Hearts is the mortal world... Perhaps, this is the part the Creator Immortal missed?" Yun Xiao muttered. His white figure ascended, floating above the clouds, and merged into the heart of the celestial lotus.

    Below, waves of awe-struck noise rose. Those fervent faces proved that Yun Xiao had eclipsed Ling Chen, bing once again the faith of the Sword Ruins!

    Yun Xiao was a recorder of events, but he wasn''t overly concerned with them. His focus was solely on the melting strand of ck Sword Intent and the lotus formed by the convergence of a million Sword Intents. The y of light and shadow across the Nine Hells was merely a resonance between the forces of nature and his Dao Heart.

    "This powerful Sword Intent from the Supreme Azure Star Emperor Immortal Court is a brutal, ferocious will of a fiendish nature," Blue Star whispered.

    "Is that so? I hadn''t noticed before," Yun Xiao replied. After speaking, he extended his azure Heaven Burial Sword Soul, its tip touching the ck Sword Intent.

    In that instant, Yun Xiao saw an infinitely vast starry universe. It was a ck sea of stars, 99,999 in total, arrayed like a sword, chaotic and vicious, stained with the blood of endless stars.

    "My sword, a fiend within, to be used in times of dire need, leaving no regrets in life." The majestic voice echoed in Yun Xiao''s ears amidst the endless stars.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The ck Sword Intent transformed into a wisp of ck liquid, merging into the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, eventually pooling on the azure lotus and forming a ck deathly skull on the petals.

    Following this, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul exuded waves of thick ck smoke.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes seemed to swirl with ck mist too.

    "Sword Fiend?" He could feel the brutality and ferocity of this Sword Intent. Holding the dark azure Heaven Burial Sword Soul, his eyes shrouded in swirling mist, he looked down to see an invisible ck fog drifting above the heads of countless Sword Cultivators, drawn towards his sword.

    "Is this the malevolent thoughts of all beings? This Sword Fiend, does it allow me to enter a berserk state, indifferent to kin, drawing on the malevolent thoughts of all beings for battle?" Yun Xiao didn''t need to experiment to understand these effects; a mere feeling was enough for him to grasp them thoroughly.

    He took a slight breath, reining in the malevolent thoughts of the Sword Fiend. The ck skull on the Heaven Burial Sword Soul''s lotus gradually dimmed, almost vanishing. Yet, he knew it was still there, never truly gone. It would be a part of his Sword Intent.

    Another part, of course, originated from the Worldly Dao Heart...

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In the next instant, the celestial lotus that shrouded the Nine Hells, like a splendid storm, surged into Yun Xiao''s sword!

    The Sword Intent of a million ancestors, like a torrent, truly merged into the azure lotus. Under the transformation of the Dao Heart, the lotus seemed toe alive, beginning to truly take root and sprout.

    "A million ancestors, each with their own worldly hearts through trials... Their Sword Intent forms the foundation of my Worldly Sword Intent, as well as the basis of the Primordial life force."

    The strand of ck malevolent Sword Intent, inherent with deathly and brutal obsession, lurked deep within this Sword Intent.

    When the celestial lotus dissipated, Yun Xiao''s Worldly Sword Intent finally took shape! The azure lotus from the Primordial Coffin transformed, now exhibiting colorful petals, dazzling like a dream.

    The simple Heaven Burial Sword Soul finally gained a hint of embellishment, its surgingyers of Sword Aura now shimmering with light, colorful brilliance.

    "Sword Intent is not just power, but a will of the Sword Dao, enabling me to harness the forces of heaven and earth..."

    Yun Xiao''s sword didn''t show the nine-colored chessboard transformation like Ling Chen''s. However, any sane cultivator would know that the depth of his Sword Intent far surpassed that of Ling Chen.

    Dao Heart, Sword Intent! These were the most fundamental elements on a Sword Cultivator''s path to the heavens!

    The nurturing of the Dao Heart allowed one''s cultivation to grow, and the tempering of Sword Intent sharpened the Sword.

    Now, at least, Yun Xiao achieved both a Dao Heart and Sword Intent.

    The power of the Dao Heart Realm surged through Yun Xiao, his sacred power swirling around him. In terms of sheer strength, he didn''t feel overwhelmingly powerful, but his extraordinary thoughts and demeanor surpassed many of the Sword Cultivators present by leagues.

    With this, Yun Xiao''s transformation wasplete! Next, naturally, was the beginning of the ultimate battle.

    He didn''t keep the crowd waiting. Right at the appointed hour, he descended onto the central battle stage, grasping his azure sword, pointing it at his sole opponentLing Chen!

    The long-silent Sword Ruins finally erupted into life.

    "Exile Yun!" The deafening roar shook the mountains and rivers of the Eternal Sword Prison. Demon Spawn, Fiendsh Sword Soul where were all the malicious rumors about him now?

    In the eyes of the Sword Cultivators of the Sword Ruins, there was only one phrase leftTrue Immortal!

    "I was foolish to have underestimated Exile Yun for Exile Ling."

    "We were blind indeed!"

    Even these words were freely spoken, a testament to the awe-inspiring effect of the celestial lotus that eclipsed the sky.

    "Exile Yun has regressed. He made the Eternal Sword hum over 10,000 times more than Exile Ling. Yet now, his Dao Heart Phenomenon was only a few thousand times bigger than that of Exile Ling."

    "Ha ha!"

    These bright,ughing faces vividly illustrated to Yun Xiao the fickleness of human hearts.

    He nced around with the corner of his eye.

    The Sword Warden, Mu Dalong, and others had eyes full of rxed smiles and deep respect.

    The Withered Bone Keeper, Ku Xuan, Qingzan, and their camp had somewhat dazed looks.

    Especially noteworthy was the Withered Bone Keeper, who had always maintained hisposure. But at this moment, his steadfast heart visibly quivered.

    Unexpectedly, one individual caught Yun Xiao''s attentionZhang Mu. He stepped back, his eyes harboring deep gloom.

    "He harbors a guilty conscience," Yun Xiao thought upon seeing the seven Hell Demon Sword Rings on Ling Chen''s sword. A traitor was despised even more.

    "Don''t be reckless!" Ku Xuan coldly turned to Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, and Shuang Jiang. "The Dao Heart Phenomenon means little; true strength is everything. Death renders even a billion hums of the Eternal Sword useless."

    "Indeed..." The three Overseers nodded deeply. They dared not contradict, realizing that even kneeling to Yun Xiao now wouldn''t spare them a grim fate. Better to stick to the original n, gambling for the glory and riches of their descendants.

    "Kill him, and it''s all settled!" Ku Xuan''s eyes were fierce, fists clenched under his sleeves.

    "Trust in Exile Ling! He''s been overshadowed repeatedly; his heart must be brimming with a towering desire for vengeance!"

    At that moment, all factions aligned with the Withered Bone Keeper looked towards Ling Chen with burning eyes.

    "Up until now, they haven''t really fought. Pay no heed to these illusions! The true worth of a cultivator is always proven on the battlefield."

    "Don''t rush... the one whoughsstughs best."

    "Right, dad? My dear daughter?" Ku Xuan spoke rapidly, then turned to the Withered Bone Keeper and Qingzan.

    "Better if they all die," Qingzan''s eyes were filled with dread and malice. "If only one must die first, let it be Yun Xiao."

    Ku Xuan fell silent at these words.

    Just then, Zhang Mu announced with fervor.

    "The final battle begins!"

 Chapter 288: A Clash Between Two Exiled Sword Immortals!

    Chapter 288: A sh Between Two Exiled Sword Immortals!

    Thunderous cheers engulfed the Sword Ruins, so loud that Yun Xiao probably couldnt hear his own voice. In such an atmosphere, when his gaze shed with Ling Chen''s, words lost their meaning. Ling Chen''s eyes held a special kind of intensity that Yun Xiao had never seen before, rich andplex. Ling Chen raised his Nine-Colored Sword Soul, offering a faint smile to Yun Xiao.

    But Yun Xiao didnt smile back. Hidden deep in Ling Chen''s expressive eyes was an undeniable intent to kill, a facade of respect masking a rtionship as vtile as fire and water. Ling Chens eyebrows twitched when he received no smile in return, unable to hide his anger.

    He drew his sword without hesitation!

    The nine-colored Sword Soul in his hand transformed into a Flying Sword, bing a point of cold, nine-colored light hurtling towards Yun Xiao!

    In an instant, a nine-colored chessboard appeared before Yun Xiao, with the sword at its center. Around it, eight square spaces, seven upied by ghostly figuresthe Hell Demons. Beings like the Azure Phoenix and Necropolis Demon unleashed their powerful demon magic, invoking heavenly firestorms,herworld waters, and illusory moons. The nine-colored chessboard, drawing upon the forces of heaven and earth, fused these myriad demon magics, creating a terrifying amalgamation.

    With a buzz, the nine-colored Sword Soul, carrying the chessboard and the demon magics, descended upon Yun Xiao like nine different worlds converging!

    The space where the Flying Sword passed trembled violently, twisting the very fabric of the cosmos. The point of deepest distortion was precisely where Yun Xiao stood.

    Ling Chens strike was swift and explosive, a vivid disy of both skill and raw power.

    When he finally made a move, it was nothing short of earth-shattering!

    "Matchless!"

    Though Ling Chen''s cultivation might not match the elders of the Sword Ruins, the finesse of his Flying Sword technique was unparalleled, a wonder of the ages. The crowd began to question their premature adtion of Yun Xiao.

    "Sure, he''s added the power of the Sword Rings and Sword Intent to it. But isn''t this still just Vast Sky?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, not a trace of panic in his eyes. With a casual flick, he too unleashed a Flying Sworda streak of azure light that tore through the sky!

    Yun Xiao''s pure white, perfect Dao Heart and the colorful lotus Sword Intent of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul seemed to blend seamlessly. The Sword Intent of a million ancestors and the Worldly Dao Heart, along with the cyclical powers of life and death, reached a state of perfect harmony.

    His sword looked ordinary, but its movement was extraordinary!

    Like a fish darting through the distorted spatial sea, facing monstrous waves yet seemingly in a tranquil world of its own. It glided over the nine-colored chessboard and effortlessly reached Ling Chen in a serene dance.

    "Huh?!" Ling Chen''s face contorted in shock, hastily dodging. Even a mere turn of his head could cause the spatial space to ripple like waves, attempting to lock down Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword.

    But he quickly realized that his spatial powers were ineffective against Yun Xiao''s sword! The point of azure light passed by him as if on level ground, brushing past his ear.

    <em>PUFF! </em>Ling Chen''s right ear suddenly burst into a mist of blood! His eyes reddened, his expression twisted in pain as he felt the right side of his face, now drenched in blood. His right ear was, gone!

    In contrast, Yun Xiao effortlessly blocked Ling Chen''s nine-colored chessboard assault with a single hand, invoking nine spatial vortexes from the Wuji Dao Art!

    Victory and defeat were evident from the changing expressions of these two Exiled Sword Immortals.

    At that moment, the previously uproarious crowd fell into a stunned silence.

    This was starting to be a pattern. Ling Chen would shock them. Then, Yun Xiao would shock Ling Chen in turn

    It was but a momentary exchange of Flying Swords, yet a sense of destiny flooded the hearts of all spectators. They knew Ling Chen was a tragic figure defying the heavens in vain!

    In some shes, a single detail could reveal the whole story.

    But Ling Chen was clearly not ready to concede defeat! After being bested multiple times, he clung to his confidence until a direct confrontation twisted his mindset, just like the distorted space of the cosmos.

    "Again!" Ling Chen growled, his nine-colored Sword Soul transforming into a three-foot-long azure de. "The Divine Cosmic Sword!" He gazed at the ancient, legendary divine sword, the one thing he had the utmost confidence in!

    Ling Chen soared into the air, transforming into a streak of colorful light, and struck fiercely at Yun Xiao. With a crack, the space around him suddenly fractured into nine distinct rifts, each a different color, pressing down upon Yun Xiao.

    The sheer scale of this spectacle stunned the spectators anew.

    At the center of those nine rifts was the Divine Cosmic Sword, having traversed the void for a million years.

    <em>Palm Sword Technique, Sky Rupture! </em>

    The crowd gasped in awe.

    Without a second thought, Yun Xiao swung his sword, his azure Heaven Burial Sword Soul bursting into a kaleidoscope of colors. With one strike, ten spatial rifts tore upwards like ws, seizing the Divine Cosmic Sword and the nine rifts it created.

    An extra rift appeared, ensnaring Ling Chen!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul shed with the Divine Cosmic Sword!

    "Now, shatHUH?" This was the moment Ling Chen had been waiting for, his chance to break Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul with the ancient divine sword. However, the very instant the swords collided, Ling Chen''s body shuddered. The nine-colored Sword Soul inside him let out a mournful cry and retracted back into his bones!

    <em>SLASH! </em>Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul, unopposed, swept upwards, severing Ling Chen''s other ear!

    <em>THUD! </em>Ling Chen rolled to the ground, narrowly escaping a fatal strike, but inadvertently knelt before Yun Xiao. His forehead struck the ground hard, blood gushing out!

    Millions of eyes, frozen, stared in disbelief at this scene. The Sword Ruins were enveloped in an eerie silence.

    "I..." Ling Chen even forgot the pain in his ears.

    It wasn''t the odd looks from around him that shattered him most, but the fact that the Divine Cosmic Sword seemed to have been frightened...

    This was the great cosmic sword, containing nine worlds, a mythical de said to split thousands of realms. How could it possibly be frightened...

    Holding his bleeding ears, he looked up dazedly at Yun Xiao, the young man in white whose presence was as calm as water.

    At that moment, his hopes for rebirth were thoroughly crushed.

    "Yun Xiao, who exactly are you?!" he asked, his voice filled with despair.

    After waiting a million years for rebirth, at the peak of his confidence, how could he have stumbled upon such a formidable adversary?

    "It''s not important." Yun Xiao sheathed his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, looking down at him. "I''ll give you onest chance. Be my sword ve, serve me loyally, will you agree?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 289: Youre Nothing But a Sword Slave!

    Chapter 289: You''re Nothing But a Sword ve!

    "Sword ve!"

    When Yun Xiao uttered these two words, the hearts of everyone present clenched in a vice-like grip!

    Ling Chen had been Bai Wuque''s sword ve almost his whole life! Just a few days ago, he had delivered a karmic retribution to Bai Wuque, and now, Yun Xiao was pinning this disgrace back onto him?

    To Ling Chen, no insult was greater than being called a sword ve.

    "To think, an Exiled Sword Immortal would be the Sword ve of another... well, that''s just..."

    People couldn''t even find the words to describe the tumult in their hearts.

    "Even though they''re both in the Dao Heart Realm, why does Yun Xiao seem so much stronger than Ling Chen?"

    No one understood.

    This was the difference between a Creator Immortal and a Divine Sky Sword Emperor.

    Even a Creator Immortal at their weakest was above the clouds!

    After a tense silence, as Ling Chen hesitated to make a choice, the topic of discussion quickly shifted.

    "Exile Ling is too weak."

    "How he treated Bai Wuque''s mother, I told you, he''s no good, and you all praised him?"

    "I said it before, all this talk about the Fiendish Sword Soul, it''s all lies spread by Exile Ling."

    "He can''t beat Exile Yun, so he resorts to such low tactics, while Exile Yun is unafraid of rumors; that''s the true demeanor of an Immortal!"

    These words, previously spoken, were often met with retorts. But now, who would dare?

    The tens of thousands of young justice-seekers, at some point, had their heads nearly buried in their necks, turning into shrinking turtles, awkwardlyughing along with others in praising Yun Xiao, their faces twisted.

    Yun Xiao''s name echoed through the skies!

    The Withered Bone Keeper, Ku Xuan, the trio of Overseers, and others stoodpletely frozen, their faces warping with shock as if their insides were being torn apart.

    This battle, not evensting three hundred exchanges, saw Yun Xiao strike twice with his sword, forcing Ling Chen to keel.

    Ling Chen''s supporters were devastated!

    "Dad, this is bad, if Exile Ling, unable to bear this humiliation, takes his own life..." Ku Xuan''s voice trembled.

    Sword ve, a lowly ve! Even if Ling Chen rose to the position of second strongest, standing above countless people, others would still mock him as nothing but a sword ve! Who could endure such a fate?

    "Exile Ling hasn''t lost, he can still fight!" Overseer Sikong clenched his teeth. He wasn''t wrong; Ling Chen had only lost his ears, not his arms. There was still a chance for him to turn defeat into victory.

    "Fight!" Those Sword Cultivators, unwilling to ept defeat, suppressed their panic and roared at Ling Chen on the stage in the most stifled voices. In their hearts, a supreme reincarnated true Immortal like him surely couldn''t just surrender and kneel as a ve! Even they couldn''t stomach such humiliation!

    However, as they widened their eyes in anticipation, they were stunned to see Ling Chen bowing deeply Then, in front of everyone, he prostrated on the ground!

    His forehead touching the earth, he spoke in the most respectful tone, "Sword ve Ling Chen greets his master. From now on, I am willing to wield my sword and face death for my master!"

    This statement, though not loud, instantly silenced all the noise.

    The Withered Bone Keeper and his other supporters, along with the tens of thousands of justice-seekers, were petrified on the spot.

    "Pfft!" Mu Xiaolong couldn''t hold back and burst intoughter.

    "Don''tugh!" Mu Dalong hurriedly tried to cover her mouth, but she too couldn''t help but chuckle.

    "Hahaha..." In an instant, theughter of millions of people formed a wave of humiliation, crashing over and over again onto the young man in the dark violet robe on the battle stage, torturing his heart repeatedly.

    "Ugh." Zhang Mu''s face turned pale, and he instinctively retreated into the crowd, apuding Yun Xiao with the other Overseers that stood with the Sword Warden.

    All around, the Overseers wore smirks, except for him, whose facial muscles seemed to have their own consciousness, trembling in different directions.

    "Two tigers cannot share one mountain, unless one is master and the other ve!"

    "Congrattions to Exile Yun, and to Exile Ling as well. No matter what, we, the cultivators of the Eternal Sword Prison, will continue to fight for both Exiled Sword Immortals!" The Sword Warden''s deration, like a final verdict, marked the end of the Immortal Sword Rankings.

    The Sword Warden''s message was clear. The Sword Ruins still recognized the status of both Exiled Sword Immortals, and their internal master-servant rtionship was their own affair.

    While this move seemed to save Ling Chen''s face, the news of him bing a sword ve would inevitably spread throughout the Nine Hells, bing a topic of mockery at every meal.

    Not just outsiders, even many Sword Cultivators present couldn''t help but chuckle at these words.

    Yun Xiao was slightly taken aback by the turn of events. "Not bad for someone who, in a past life, rose to the ranks of a Cosmic Immortal, truly bearing humiliation with fortitude," he thought with a chuckle.

    The ability to bend or stand tall was, indeed, the mark of a protagonist! Unlike Yun Xiao, who could only stand tall and never bend. But it worked out perfectly, as Ling Chen''s Seed of Creation was not yet fully potent. Killing him now would be a waste after nurturing him for days.

    "Aren''t you afraid of nurturing a threat?" Blue Star asked.

    "From the moment he knelt, he became nothing more than a rabbit," Yun Xiao replied.

    Nurturing a tiger might be dangerous, but a rabbit? That was just for fun.

    "Stand up!" In the midst of the uproar, Yun Xiao casually instructed Ling Chen.

    "Yes, Master!" Ling Chen stood, trembling slightly. He looked at Yun Xiao with deep respect, devoid of any resentment, andpletely indifferent to the mockery of the entire Sword Ruins. "Master has the ability to pierce the heavens and possess the essence of the universe. I was blind to your grace and kindness, acting foolishly. Please forgive me."

    "Enough with the ttery," Yun Xiao waved his hand dismissively. "Give me back the Sword Rings."

    "Yes!" Ling Chen lowered his head, summoning the nine-colored Sword Soul. As his gaze fell on the Divine Cosmic Sword, his eyes trembled slightly. The degradation of this sword was the fundamental reason for his current choice. He took a deep breath and removed the seven Hell Demon Sword Rings, handing them over to Yun Xiao in front of everyone.

    <em>CLICK! CLICK! </em>With a casual flick, Yun Xiao attached the seven Sword Rings to the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in a smooth, natural motion, eliciting another wave of admiration and noise.

    "Indeed, Exile Yun''s Sword Soul must be at least Yang grade!"

    "No, no, no, he embedded seven Sword Rings because that''s all there is. Who knows what his limit is?"

    The crowd erupted intoughter, and the entire Sword Ruins seemed to clear of any malicious rumors, filled with joy and harmony.

    Yun Xiao was pleased with the astute reactions of the Sword Cultivators. As he put away the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, he looked up at Ling Chen. "When did you acquire these Sword Rings?"

    Ling Chen replied respectfully, without hesitation, "Yesterday afternoon."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao calcted the time; it was right after his visit to the Blood Crystal Pool.

    Ling Chen made no effort to hide his voice. So, when he spoke, Zhang Mu copsed to the ground, his face etched with panic!

    The surrounding Overseers shook their heads and scoffed at him.

    "Sword Warden! Exile Yun!" Zhang Mu, in utter despair, knelt and started kowtowing frantically.

    "I''ve heard that his brother, Zhang Qian, died by his hand," Ling Chen respectfully informed Yun Xiao.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao turned his gaze towards Mu Dalong.

    Mu Dalong, who had been smiling just moments before, now trembled, staring nkly at Zhang Mu, her eyes gradually filling with blood.

    This news sent shockwaves through the crowd!

    "Murdering his own brother?"

    Such a deed was despicable in any realm!

    "He killed my father? Why..." Mu Xiaolongs young eyes were filled with disbelief. Yet, she knew it must be true.

    "Exile Ling, this is a misunderstanding!" Zhang Mu, weeping, crawled towards him. The more revolting his past actions, the more tragic his current plight. This was karma!

    "Arrest him, and after investigation, execute him!" the Sword Wardenmanded, not wanting the scandal to spread.

    "Yes!" Several Overseers stepped forward, seizing the desperate Zhang Mu and forcefully dragging him away.

    Zhang Mu had never imagined he would be betrayed by Ling Chen. He was stunned! Of course, he knew it was all because Yun Xiao was too powerful! Otherwise, how could Ling Chen be reduced to such a state?

    "Are you alright?" the Sword Warden asked his daughter.

    Mu Dalong quietly wiped away her tears and whispered, "I''m fine, Dad. At least we found the murderer. Its some constion to my beloved."

    "Who would have thought..." The Sword Warden sighed deeply.

    "Do we need to delve deeper for evidence?" Mu Dalong asked.

    "No need."

    The so-called thorough investigation was just a formality.

    With Ling Chen''s testimony and the timing of Zhang Mu''s allegiance to the Withered Bone Keeper, even a fool could deduce that the Withered Bone Keeper had coerced Zhang Mu with this very truth.

    "Later, you will execute Zhang Mu," the Sword Wardenforted.

    "Mhm." Mu Dalong nodded. After fourteen years, she could finally avenge her husband! Her daughter, Mu Xiaolong, had never even seen her father. How could such hatred be forgotten?

    "Dad, can we take this chance to uproot the Ku Family?" Mu Dalong asked quietly.

    With Zhang Mu being dealt with, why not go further and root out the Ku Family? After all, the truth about the demon spawn and Fiendish Sword Soul rumors, with just a word from Ling Chen, could condemn Ku Xuan.

    "He is my master," the Sword Warden said through clenched teeth.

    "Does being your master give him the right to do as he pleases? He wants the Sword Relic and even your life," Mu Dalong argued.

    "Alright... but the Ku Family is a major family in the Sword Ruins, deeply rooted. Dealing with them is much harder than dealing with Zhang Mu. The time is not right yet," the Sword Warden said.

    "I thought as much. You''ve always been ruthless, not one to let personal feelings interfere with matters of great importance," Mu Dalong looked towards the battle tform and whispered again, "Dad, are you saying Exile Ling''s fighting spirit hasn''t faded?"

    "Let''s just keep observing." The Sword Warden smiled slightly, "Truth be told, they''re still both merely geniuses, not yet strong. With many disciples under my master''s wing and the uing Nine Hells Conquest sh, trying to eliminate the Ku Family now would hurt the vitality of the Sword Ruins."

    "Then?"

    "Wait a little longer. They''ll get impatient, and impatience will push them into an abyss from which they can''t return. I don''t want to be known for killing my master... ording to their own games, to destroy a man, you first have to make him utterly despised, right?" The Sword Warden chuckled.

    "You mean to use their own tactics against them," Mu Dalong said.

 Chapter 290: Going Back Home!

    Chapter 290: Going Back Home!

    "Exactly. We''ll give them a taste of their own medicine. The Ku Family failed because their target was Exile Yun. Against absolute strength and talent, all nder and rumors fall apart on their own. His Dao Heart bends to no one!" The Sword Warden sighed with emotion.

    "Indeed" Mu Dalong looked at the young man in white with eyes full of admiration.

    To be honest, it was only when people saw Yun Xiao stepping directly over Ling Chen''s head that his true advantage in appearance burst forth. At a nce, such a divine-looking young man, if not a real Immortal, then what was he?

    "I''d call him the most handsome man in the Nine Hells."

    "With such a divine face, whoever gets a whiff of his fragrance is the real winner."

    "Don''t talk nonsense, Exile Yun is not like Exile Ling, who is superficial!"

    Without a doubt, at this moment, Yun Xiaopletely conquered the Sword Ruins and would soon conquer the Eternal Sword Prison!

    All the Sword Cultivators would form a united force, fighting for him! This was crucial! A united Eternal Sword Prison was at least several times stronger than a fragmented, divided one!

    Without suppressing Ling Chen, this effect would not have been achieved! The unity of the Sword Cultivators was exactly what the Inscription Cultivators did not want to see, so this oue was the worst possible one for Qingzan!

    Her face remained in deep shadows. She, along with her group of gloomy-faced Inscription Cultivators, left the scene without a word.

    "Heh." Yun Xiao knew that this group of Inscription Cultivators would not let things rest.

    "All married, and still such a busybody, meddling in the affairs of others? A traitor, that''s what you are." After dealing with the Withered Bone Keeper, Yun Xiao would soon take care of them.

    "Master" Ling Chen looked at him, hesitating to speak.

    "Speak," Yun Xiao said.

    "The Withered Bone Keeper''s roots are deep; we can''t topple them yet. That''s why I haven''t called them out for spreading those rumors about you yet. You don''t me me, do you?" Ling Chen asked.

    "Of course not," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Then should I follow you to the Valley of Ruins next, or will youe to stay at the Exile Pce?" Ling Chen asked, head bowed.

    "No need, just stay at the Exile Pce. Pretend you''re stillpeting with me in front of them, to draw out more of their secrets for me to exploit," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Absolutely!" Ling Chen nodded emphatically.

    "Go on, then!" Yun Xiao patted his shoulder. "Don''t fret. Being my sword ve is an honor. Your path to greatness truly starts now."

    "Yes..." Ling Chen gave an awkward smile. "I was overstepping before."

    "That''s normal. An Exiled Sword Immortal, how could you not have a bit of pride?" Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "Right..." Ling Chen took a deep breath, paused for a moment, and then spoke, "Master, there''s something I''ve always been curious about."

    "Speak."

    "How did you learn the Divine Sky Sword Dao?" Ling Chen asked, looking up.

    "That?" Yun Xiao said casually, "Just picked it up watching you, and found it quite handy."

    "..." Ling Chen was struck speechless. After bowing to Yun Xiao and uttering a word of awe, he left to carry out his task.

    As he turned, a million mocking gazes fell upon him. Ling Chen pursed his lips, swallowing all the ridicule and mockery, dissolving it into nothingness.

    "This is getting interesting." He wiped the blood from his ears and disappeared into the crowd, alone.

    In the Ancestral Sword Tomb, Ling Chen and the Withered Bone Keeper stood in the tomb, their expressions solemn.

    "The Heavenly Land is our only hope now," Ling Chen said.

    "Yes." The Withered Bone Keeper, hunched and with a voice as frail as if on hisst breath, agreed.

    "Bring out the Heavenly Mirror," Ling Chen said calmly.

    "Exile Ling, this Heavenly Mirror is a treasured relic guarded by our ancestors, as precious as the Sword Relic, and it deteriorates with each use. Though it''s buried in the Ancestral Sword Tomb, I have no right to use it. If discovered, we''ll have no choice but to fight to the death with the Sword Warden and Exile Yun," the Withered Bone Keeper said gravely.

    "Is there any other way to expand the passage to the Heavenly Land?" Ling Chen asked coldly.

    "No." The Withered Bone Keeper shook his head.

    "Then that settles it." Ling Chen''s eyes zed as he looked forward, his heart still pierced by the countless jeers and taunts. "That sword... even more profound than the Divine Cosmic Sword..."

    His heart after rebirth was bleeding profusely. The humiliation of being a sword ve, like a brand of fate, was forever etched upon him.

    "Exile Ling endures such tribtions without faltering! True victory belongs to those who can bend and stretch, endure hardships like sleeping on sticks and tasting gall," said the Withered Bone Keeper.

    "Enough praise, he''s formidable, unimaginably terrifying... he''s undoubtedly not of this realm," Ling Chen spoke, his eyes bloodshot, the sting in his ears still fresh. This was adversity.

    "Perhaps this is right! Only through adversity can one strengthen themselves, truly refine their spirit, and transcend the past..." Ling Chen closed his eyes.

    "Exile Ling is right. In the end, though, he''s still just a junior. If he gets too carried away, there are plenty who could end him!" the Withered Bone Keeper said coldly, "Your ability to swallow such humiliation today, willingly bing a sword ve for a glimmer of hope, honestly, it astounds an old man like me. A man of your spirit won''t be let down by fate."

    "Actually, it''s a good thing..." Ling Chen suddenly chuckled.

    "How so?"

    "Judging by Qingzan''s attitude, the other eight hells of the Nine Hells are dead set against us Exiled Sword Cultivators. In such times, let him hog all the limelight, attract all the killing cmities, while I, in my utmost humility, avoid this tribtion... I just need to get the Heavenly Land, and everything will change," Ling Chen said.

    "Can you endure the humiliation of this process?" the Withered Bone Keeper asked.

    "The most humiliating moment has already passed, hasn''t it?" Ling Chen''s eyes zed, his resolve growing stronger, "In life, who doesn''t face setbacks? Enduring a thousand hardships, one bes an Immortal... Time will give the answer."

    "Hmm," the Withered Bone Keeper''s eyes flickered with a dim light, "So be it, if you have that much resolve, it would be disrespectful not to match it. At the risk of being called a traitor, I''ll open the Heavenly Mirror for you! Once the Heavenly Land is seized, everything will improve... As for Exile Yun, let his high profile attract all the wrath of the eight hells."

    "He is a respectable opponent. It''s a pity..." Ling Chen shook his head regretfully.

    "A pity what?"

    "In this world, no one can forever avoid bowing their head."

    In a dim pce within the Sword Ruins, Qingzan stood by the window, her gaze deep.

    "Madame!" An elder came in quietly, his eyes filled with excitement.

    "What is it?" Qingzan turned to ask.

    The elder whispered a long message into her ear.

    "Heavenly Land?" After hearing it, Qingzan''s face went through several changes, her gaze uncertain. "Such a significant discovery, and my father, my grandfather, they kept it from me?" In Qingzan''s green eyes, the coldness intensified.

    "This shows that these Sword Cultivators never truly considered you one of their own. They''re guarding against you," the elder sneered.

    "Shut up!" Qingzan red at him.

    "Yes." The elder bowed his head.

    After a moment of thought, Qingzan instructed the elder. "Arrange for someone to go back to the Cmity Seal Purgatory immediately and report about the Heavenly Land! Also, you mentioned there''s an entrance in the Endless Netherworld?"

    "Yes!" The elder nodded.

    "The Sword Ruins are sworn enemies with the demons and devils. Perfect, we Inscription Cultivators can negotiate with them," Qingzan said in a low voice.

    "Madame, if we join forces with the devils, your reputation in the Sword Ruins will plummet," the elder cautioned.

    "It''s already hit almost rock bottom today, it doesnt matter if it falls further. As long as those two Exiled Sword Cultivators live, my reputation can''t rise... But once they''re dead, aside from me, the Sword Ruins will have no other choice," Qingzan, holding onto the window sill, looked out over the mountains and rivers of the Sword Ruins, "Besides, we''re just the middlemen. Devils or Sword Ruins, whoever offers more, we align with. The Heavenly Land should belong to the strongest hell, right?"

    "Of course," the elder agreed deeply.

    "Act!" Qingzanmanded.

    "Yes!"

    The elder bowed and quickly retreated.

    In the Valley of Ruins, Zhang Mu, covered in blood, knelt in front of a grave. The grave was engraved with the words<em>Beloved Husband, Zhang Qian</em>.

    At this moment, Zhang Mu, with disheveled hair, blood-stained clothes, and a ck and red abdomen, was utterly defeated. His face was pale, his eyes dim,pletely devoid of hope.

    Beside him stood Yun Xiao, the Warden, along with Mu Dalong, Mu Daxiong, and Mu Qinghuan.

    "Zhang Mu, anything left to say?" Mu Dalong, holding a gilded Sword Soul, her eyes red, looked at him.

    "Nothing more." Zhang Mu bowed his head, tears streaming down. "Life is like that, one wrong step leads to another, and there''s no turning back," he choked out.

    "Why take that wrong step?" Mu Dalong was deeply pained.

    "I envied him! Everything was almost the same, yet he was always ahead, stealing all the glory that should have been mine, including you..." Zhang Mu said.

    "Stop, you''ve made your choice. Your actions can''t be forgiven. Nothing will excuse your evil." Mu Dalong shook her head.

    "Is that so? Haha..." A desteugh from Zhang Mu. As Mu Dalong''s sword was about to fall, he suddenly said, "Wait!"

    "What?" Mu Dalong asked.

    "Exile Ling won''t admit defeat. Dont trust him. He betrayed me, hell betray anyone. Hes selfish to the core, with no bottom line!" Zhang Mu looked at Yun Xiao.

    "At least you said something sensible," the Sword Warden suddenly spoke.

    "You all knew? Then why not just kill him and end it all?" Zhang Mu was dumbfounded.

    "Because I want to kill more," Yun Xiao said.

    "Alright!" Zhang Mu bowed his head deeply, no longer fearing Yun Xiao, and said to Mu Dalong, "Fourteen years of nightmares, end my suffering."

    Then, Mu Dalong struck him down. As the sword fell, tears streamed down the faces of mother and daughter, who then sat destely by the grave for a long time.

    Yun Xiao, too, was getting ready to leave.

    "Exile Yun Xiao, where are you headed next?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "Back to my hometown," Yun Xiao replied, and then extended his hand to the Sword Warden, "I''m not asking for much this time, just 100 million Immortal Jades!"

    "Uh!" The Warden stepped back! Last time it was 10,000, this time 100 million!

    "By the way, do you still have any more Golden Springs Wine?" Yun Xiao grinned.

    The Sword Warden backed up ten steps, nearly falling into the Golden Springs.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 291: Heavenly Mirror, Calamity Seal Sword!

    Chapter 291: Heavenly Mirror, Cmity Seal Sword!

    In the Demon Continent, at the passageway to the Endless Netherworld, perched atop a mammoth ck boulder sat a woman with curves that could make even the mountains blush!

    Her hair, long as a waterfall, cascaded down, bathing in the moonlight that lent her skin the sheen of polished ivory, draped in a veil of silver. Her face, a blend of icy allure and bewitching beauty, bore the regality of a queen and the temptation of a siren. A pair of blood-jade dragon horns crowned her head, adding a wild grace to her already stunning figure. With legs long and sculpted, and a waist so slender it seemed to defy reality, she didn''t need to move an inch to captivate souls.

    Around her, a faint mist of crimson shimmered with blood dragons coiled around her body, adding an air of untouchable majesty. With such beauty, she could drive any male of any species to distraction with just a nce.

    "Must be her unlocked talents that''s upped her charm," one devil remarked, eyeing the deviless from a respectful distance.

    "She''s the unrivaled beauty of the Nine Hells, no question about it," another devil agreed, whispering under his breath.

    Below the massive boulder, the two devils looked up in awe, speaking in hushed tones. "Say what you will, but the humans and demons might not take kindly to that."

    "What does it matter? Demons are mere beastspared to her, and human women? Skinny, with no curves to speak of. What beauty can they hold?" the other devil replied, with a sniff of disdain.

    "True enough. All seek the allure of a deviless... The War Princess, young and fiery, a goddess among devils. In the Endless Netherworld, who wouldn''t revere her?"

    "And to think, Envoy Feng is the envy of us all."

    "Him? He can''t handle the War Princess. As for who''ll win her hand, that''s anyone''s guess..."

    Since the War Princess chose to stay in the Demon Continent, her unlocked talents had caused quite a stir in the Endless Netherworld.

    Even before her return, she had be a legend, a deity. So, any of the new arrivals from the Endless Netherworld bowed before her, in genuine reverence.

    "You''reing back?" Atop the massive boulder, the woman tilted her head slightly, looking down towards her heart.

    "Miss me?" a calm response came in her mind.

    Yun Xiao had been busy these past few days, scarcely paying her any attention.

    "My loathing for you doesn''t leave much room for that kind of sentiment," the War Princess bit her red lip and retorted.

    "All that potential, and the only skill you ever developed is pping that mouth of yours," Yun Xiao quipped back.

    "Hmph. You''re one to talk. Then again, I''m sure you have much more experience in that department than me." The War Princess chuckled.

    "Are you provoking me?" Yun Xiao''s voice was cool and distant.

    The War Princess pursed her lips, choosing silence over words.

    "Wait for me." With that, Yun Xiao''s voice vanished as if he never was.

    The War Princess rolled her crimson eyes and muttered, "Little imp!"

    Suddenly, the entrance to the Endless Netherworld shimmered!

    <em>HUM! </em>A young devil in pale battle armor appeared. His long hair was tied back, his face ashen and fierce. However, as he approached the War Princess, his menacing aura dissolved, reced by a look of utmost respect.

    "My Lady, there''s a situation." Feng You bowed slightly, daring not to gaze at her legs.

    "Speak," the War Princess said, casually swinging her legs. For some reason, after that exchange, her mood seemed to lift. She hummed a childhood tune, a small smile ying on her lips.

    "At the Sword Baptism Ceremony of the Eternal Sword Prison, two Exiled Sword Immortals emerged, causing quite a stir. Even overshadowing you, they''ve be the talk of the Nine Hells," Feng You reported, his brows slightly furrowed.

    "Exiled Sword Immortals? The Eternal Sword hummed nine times?" The War Princess raised an eyebrow, curious. She hadn''t heard about Yun Xiao''s exploits in the Eternal Sword Prison. Realizing the oue, she thought, "That guy, always a surprise."

    Without saying, she knew Yun Xiao must be one of those Exiled Sword Immortals.

    Feng You detailed the feats of the two Exiled Sword Immortals and the results of the Immortal Sword Rankings, his eyes glinting with a cold, decisive edge.

    "This Exile Yun, defeating five opponents at the Perfect Dao Heart Realm, might be on par with me now," Feng You inhaled deeply, "So, there''s a consensus in the other eight hells: the Exiled Sword Immortals must die."

    "Oh, impressive," the War Princess smirked slightly, a hint of sweetness in her smile.

    "My Lady! Your father said this situation benefits you. With someone drawing the ire, you should return to the pce to cultivate safely," Feng You advised earnestly. He always advised with good intentions, but the War Princess barely listened.

    Suddenly, she asked, "Is this Exile Yun handsome?"

    Caught off guard by such an odd question, Feng You chuckled. "In the Eternal Sword Prison, he''s hailed as the most handsome in the Nine Hells. That''s ridiculous, though. He''s just a kid."

    "Shut it," the War Princess red, thinking to herself, "He''s just a bit small..."

    Feng You was puzzled by her irritation.

    "My Lady, because of the Exiled Sword Immortals, the situation in the Heavenly Land is about to change," Feng You shifted back to business.

    "What do you mean?" The War Princess turned serious, tuning in for the matter at hand.

    "The Inscription Cultivators from the Cmity Seal Purgatory have caught wind of this. They''re using the Heavenly Land incident as leverage, and offering the Cmity Seal Sword to expand the passage, seeking an alliance with us," Feng You exined coolly.

    "Cmity Seal Sword? That''s the Cmity Seal Purgatory''s treasured weapon, simr to the Eternal Sword Prison''s Heavenly Mirror, right?" the War Princess spoke, gently patting her chest, signaling someone to listen closely.

    "The power isparable. But while the Heavenly Mirror is damaged and nearly ineffective, the Cmity Seal Sword is intact and, in practice, surely stronger," Feng You exined.

    "Don''t we in the Endless Netherworld have such treasures?" the War Princess asked.

    "We do, but none quite match the Cmity Seal Sword. We''ve tried before to expand the portal without sess," Feng You said.

    "So the Cmity Seal Sword can do it?"

    No sooner had the War Princess spoken than the portal of the Endless Netherworld trembled. Its surface rippled and twisted, hinting at some change.

    "Judging by thismotion, it might just be able to expand the portal!" Feng You observed, speaking earnestly.

    "So, my father''s already agreed to cooperate with the Inscription Cultivators? They''re already attacking the portal?" The War Princess''s brows knitted in concern.

    "Yes," Feng You nodded.

    "That old fool..." she cursed under her breath, clearly displeased.

    "Don''t worry, My Lady. Though we''re cooperating, we''re just borrowing the Cmity Seal Sword. Once the portal expands, how many Inscription Cultivators enter our realm is entirely up to us," Feng You reassured.

    An expanded portal would be permanent.

    "Moreover, the Inscription Cultivators said their goal isn''t the Heavenly Land," Feng You added.

    "Not Heavenly Land? Then what is it?" the War Princess scoffed.

    "They don''t believe in the Heavenly Land legend. They think it''s all smoke and mirrors," Feng You looked towards the entrance to the Eternal Sword Prison and said coldly, "That Qingzan said the two Exiled Sword Immortals from the Sword Ruins are likely to enter here after the Immortal Sword Rankings. It''s the best chance to kill them!"

    "Oh?" The War Princess rubbed her chest, thinking to herself, "Did you hear that? They''re nning to kill you..."

    "We''re at odds with the Sword Ruins, and the Exiled Sword Immortals are our mortal enemies. In this, we and the Inscription Cultivators stand united. So, if an opportunity arises, both sides will go all out to eliminate these two scourges," Feng You stated, then respectfully turned to the War Princess. "My Lady, the battle will be fierce. It might be best for you to return..."

    "Return, my foot. With such a big event, it''s even more crucial for me to oversee things here," the War Princess scoffed.

    "..." Feng You was speechless.

    For some reason, he sensed something odd about her, like a young girl in the throes of spring. But he wasn''t the spring she was longing for. Then who could it be?

    "It must be an illusion," Feng You reassured himself.

    "By the way," the War Princess looked at Feng You, "if the Cmity Seal Sword can expand the portal, who will the Inscription Cultivators send?"

    "Your Highness, when I entered, I heard Qingzan specte that the Cmity Seal Sword''s expansion could only open a Fate Ocean Realm portal. Anyone above that realm might still be unable to enter. Once sessful, our side will likely be led by your uncle, Chen Shi, while the Inscription Cultivators might send one or two Supreme Adjudicators in the Establishment Fate Ocean Realm, with the Talisman Prince leading them." Feng You''s eyes shed coldly at the mention of the Talisman Prince.

    "Talisman Prince, Fu Longxiang, right? The eldest son of the Talisman Emperor, top of the Cmity Seal Purgatory''s Divine Sigil Rankings? That infamous, nefarious sleazeball in the Early Fate Ocean Realm?" the War Princess''s questioning sounded like an introduction.

    "Yes, that''s him," Feng You frowned, "In all the Nine Hells, only four young prodigies have reached the Fate Ocean Realm, including him and me."

    The Fate Ocean Realm was above the Dao Heart Realm!

    The champion of the Immortal Sword Rankings from the Sword Ruins, Yi Qingfan, was at the Perfect Dao Heart Realm, still a notch below these top four prodigies of the Nine Hells.

    Feng You, with his cultivation at the Fate Ocean Realm, could even y Peak Master Bai. He was undoubtedly strong, or else he wouldn''t have been chosen to marry the War Princess.

    The Dao Heart Realm was the beginning of the Second Dao Tribtion, where one''s dao heart stabilized and plunged into the fate ocean. This fate ocean could be the heart, the Dantian, or even the flesh itself. Reaching the fate ocean signified the true merging of the dao heart with ones power.

    Those who reached the Fate Ocean Realm at a young age were almost certainly destined to be Hell Wardens! Likewise, if Yi Qingfan truly possessed the talent of a Sovereign Star Child, he would have also already reached the Fate Ocean Realm!

    "With just a few Supreme Adjudicators and Peak Masters from the Cmity Seal Purgatory, Fu Longxiang thinks he can assassinate the Exiled Sword Immortals?" the War Princess scoffed.

    "Fu Longxiang possesses the Myriad Manifestations Sigil, a Life Dao Sigil that''s only appeared a few times in the history of the Cmity Seal Purgatory. No doubt, he''s a bit stronger than me," Feng You admitted reluctantly, a little wary of his rival. "And this time, Qingzan might hand him the Cmity Seal Sword. With both the Myriad Manifestations Sigil and the Cmity Seal Sword, he''ll be an even tougher foe to handle. He might not be a Sword Cultivator, but his mother is Qingzan. Even if hecks a Sword Soul, he has the bloodline of a Sword Cultivator. With the Cmity Seal Sword, he could easily shatter any Sword Soul, right?"

    "Alright, I got it." The War Princess patted her chest and thought to herself, "Did you hear that? I''ve dug out all the enemy''s information for you"

    "My Lady, are you having chest pains?" Feng You asked, puzzled.

    "None of your business, now leave." The War Princess red at him.

    "Yes," Feng You bowed, departing with a mix of emotions. After a few steps, he couldn''t resist looking back and asking, "My Lady, your father actually ordered you to return. The uing battle will be ruthless, you"

    "That old man dares to order me? Tell him to keep his distance." The War Princess rolled her eyes.

    "..." Feng You, speechless, continued his retreat. But before making his exit, he clenched his teeth and solemnly swore, "Then rest assured, My Lady. Should anything happen, I will protect you with my life!"

    "Don''t boast. You might not even be my match now." The War Princess stood up, her slender waist swaying gracefully and her long legs a blur as she strode away.

    Swords Ruins, Ancestral Sword Tomb

    Two figures, young and old, were flying towards a humble hut, the brilliance of their Sovereign Swords illuminating the surroundings. These were the two most formidable Sword Souls in all of the Nine Hells!

    "Sword Warden, Exile Yun!" An elderly man rushed out, smiling sheepishly at the two, his forehead beaded with sweat.

    "Where is my master, the Tomb Guardian?" the Sword Warden asked, eyeing the empty hut.

    "The old Sword Warden, burdened with his thoughts, has left on a journey. He tasked me with guarding the tomb for a few days. Rest assured, I will serve our ancestors diligently," Overseer Sikong hurriedly replied.

    "Leaving one''s post at the Ancestral Tomb... that''s not eptable," the Sword Warden said coolly.

    "Yes..." Overseer Sikong didn''t dare argue, knowing the Sword Warden wouldn''t punish him for this. He stood aside respectfully as the Sword Warden and Yun Xiao headed towards the Ancestral Tomb without paying him any further attention.

    "Wait!" Overseer Sikong called out, his voice trembling.

    "What now? Can''t the Sword Warden and the Exiled Sword Immortal enter the Ancestral Sword Tomb?" The Sword Warden turned, his gaze cold upon Overseer Sikong.

    "No, it''s not that!...You can, you can enter," Overseer Sikong stammered, sweating profusely. ncing behind him, he saw over twenty Overseers following the Sword Warden and Yun Xiao through the mist, a clear sign of the overwhelming support Yun Xiao had in the Sword Ruins.

    "Good evening, Overseer Sikong." the other Overseers greeted as theynded near the Ancestral Sword Tomb.

    "Good, good evening," Overseer Sikong replied, bowing his head, his face growing paler. The mocking nces from his colleagues weighed heavily on him, making his heart sink further.

 Chapter 292: Number One Sword in the Cosmos!

    Chapter 292: Number One Sword in the Cosmos!

    "The Heavenly Mirror was indeed taken," the Sword Warden remarked, ncing at Yun Xiao.

    "What do you think now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The walls had already started to crumble when he incited those demon spawn rumors about you. But, there''s no harm in letting him ruin his reputation even more," the Sword Warden replied, stroking his beard with a sly smile.

    "If one chooses to dig their own grave, there''s no escape." Yun Xiao detested traitors the most.

    Stability within was key before confronting external threats!

    "This old coot is utterly selfish. To prolong his life, he''s already sent several of his children and grandchildren to their early graves. Yet, he''s still refusing to stop," Yun Xiao said, shaking his head.

    "Age brings its own demons." The Sword Warden sighed softly. "Life and death, the great limits of heaven and earth, can indeed be suffocating. Maybe only at the brink of death can one truly understand his plight."

    "Don''t make excuses for him. Wrong is wrong. I''ve seen many face life and death, but never someone trading the lives of their children and grandchildren for their own," Yun Xiao said coldly.

    "Indeed." The Sword Warden sighed. He felt helpless. His once mentor was not like this.

    "Exile Yun, do you believe in the tales of the Heavenly Land?" the Sword Warden suddenly asked.

    "Don''t you?" Yun Xiao countered.

    "I find it too elusive. To use the power of the Heavenly Mirror for a legend seems impractical," the Sword Warden expressed.

    That''s why he''d hesitated these past days. The Withered Bone Keeper had long advocated using the Heavenly Mirror to broaden the pathway, facing his opposition.

    This was one of the conflicts between master and pupil.

    "Speaking of which, was it your sword ve who informed you about the Heavenly Mirror?" the Sword Warden asked with a grin.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Did he really turn traitor, helping us overthrow the Ku Family?" The Sword Warden was incredulous.

    "Yes and no," Yun Xiao said.

    "How so?"

    "I gave him the role of a traitor to y. If he loses, he continues the act. If he finds the strength to oppose me, he drops the act," Yun Xiao exined with a chuckle.

    "So, you''ve given him a double safeguard?" The Sword Warden was astounded, having never seen such a strategy.

    "You underestimate me," Yun Xiao said.

    "And so?"

    "Whatever he says or does is of no consequence to me. My only need is his help in pushing the Ku Family into the pit. Once my aim is achieved, he bes irrelevant," Yun Xiao stated calmly.

    As the two conversed, they walked through the Ancestral Sword Tomb, offering incense to each tombstone.

    "I see now. This isn''t double insurance; it''s a double-edged gamble," the Sword Warden mused, feeling a stir of respect for Yun Xiao. A formidable genius, unkible, with an unyielding spirit and a cold heart...

    "Anyone who bes his enemy is truly in for a nightmare. Unfortunately, except for me, most can''t get close enough to him to realize these issues." The Sword Warden suddenly felt lucky. Thankfully, the Withered Bone Keeper had taken Ling Chen away with the promise of the Sword Relic, leading fate to bring him an even more fearsome ally.

    As they passed a vacant area in the middle during their offering of incense, Yun Xiao asked, "Is the Sword Relic buried here?"

    "Yes," the Sword Warden replied.

    "What if I took it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    After a moment of silence, the Sword Warden shook his head. "Our ancestors'' rest must not be disturbed. If so, even if the Sword Ruins were to fall, I would fight you to the end."

    "Fair enough. I respect your stance." After saying this, Yun Xiao ced the final three incense sticks at thest tombstone.

    "Descendants of the sword, so grand, deserve their peace." With these words, Yun Xiao turned to leave.

    "Exile Yun," the Sword Warden called out, "Aren''t you here to study the sword?"

    "I''ve alreadypleted my study," Yun Xiao replied without looking back.

    "Darn it..." The Sword Warden nearly let out a curse in disbelief.

    Many spent a lifetime unable to master the swordsmanship of a single ancestor in the Ancestral Sword Tomb. Yet Yun Xiao, in the midst of offering incense and conversing with the Sword Warden, had learned it all.

    Was it that Ling Chen disdained these sword techniques, or was Yun Xiao simply more formidable?

    The Sword Warden had his answer.

    Their departure was quicker than any of the Overseers had anticipated.

    "Overseer Sikong!" After emerging from the Ancestral Sword Tomb, the Sword Warden''s face was stern. His aura weighed heavily on the elderly man.

    "Sword Warden!" Overseer Sikong''s voice trembled as he knelt.

    "Do you wish to live?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "I do!" Overseer Sikong pleaded.

    "Tell me, who dared to take the Heavenly Mirror, tarnishing the over 10,000-year legacy of the Sword Ruins and leaving our future generations exposed to danger?" The Sword Warden''s words were deliberate, heavy.

    Overseer Sikong shivered, lifting his gaze to meet the Sword Warden''s. The indifferent stares of Yun Xiao, the Sword Warden, and over twenty other Overseers bore down on him like a tidal wave, bringing a sense of impending doom.

    "I bear witness..." Overseer Sikong bowed repeatedly, "It was the old Sword Warden, the Withered Bone Keeper! Only he could enter the Ancestral Sword Tomb. He stole the Heavenly Mirror,mitting an egregious error, dooming the descendants."

    "Well done." The Sword Warden patted his shoulder. "Congrattions, a prodigal son returns, more valuable than gold, you''ve saved your own life."

    "Thank you, Sword Warden! Thank you, Exile Yun!"

    Overseer Sikongy prostrate on the ground, soaked in cold sweat.

    The Sword Warden turned to the other Overseers, saying, "Seal off the Sword Ruins for now."

    "What about a public announcement?" someone asked.

    "Wouldn''t that just alert the culprit?" the Sword Warden replied with a cold smile. "First, let''s cast our wide; we must wait for their return."

    Clearly, preparations were almostplete.

    "Where''s my reward?" Yun Xiao asked the Sword Warden with a smile.

    "Don''t worry. I haven''t forgotten" The Sword Warden always got nervous with that look in Yun Xiao''s eyes. He was a strong ally, but he also burned through money at a frightening rate!

    At that moment, Mu Dalong and her brother Mu Daxiong, both arrived on their Sovereign Swords,nding before Yun Xiao. Each presented a bulging Bag of Holding, obviously of high quality.

    "Exile Yun, this is 100 million Immortal Jades," Mu Dalong offered with both hands, viewing Yun Xiao as a supreme and noble Immortal. She always remained disciplined, never overstepping her boundaries!

    "Exile Yun, please spend it wisely. This is a third of the Sword Ruins'' treasury!" the Sword Warden said, clearly pained.

    The value of Immortal Jades far exceeded that of Saint Stones. With 100 million Immortal Jades, one could buy almost anything.

    As Yun Xiao epted this fortune, none of the over twenty Overseers raised any objections.

    This was the impact of Yun Xiao suppressing Ling Chen on the Immortal Sword Rankings and ying four Inscription Cultivators! Otherwise, not even the Sword Warden could have independently mobilized a third of the treasury!

    Clearly, Yun Xiao''s authority had now surpassed even that of the Sword Warden, making him the true ruler of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    The key was that most were convinced, daring not to utter another word. This was the conquest of talent!

    The Overseers looked on with nothing but respect in their eyes. They had staked the future of the Sword Ruins entirely on Yun Xiao.

    "The other eight hells are watching closely. To outsiders, betting the future of billions of Sword Cultivators in the Eternal Sword Prison on a single genius must seem like madness! But... everyone here understands Exile Yun better than those outsiders. So, we''ll risk it all!" the Sword Warden suddenly dered solemnly.

    "Risk it all!" the Overseers voiced their agreement.

    "In that case, I cannot let wise men lose their bet," Yun Xiao said, liking their straightforwardness.

    They hadmitted to him, throwing in money and everything else! This was what Yun Xiao had earned with his talent and performance. How long would other geniuses struggle to acquire 100 million Immortal Jades?

    Yun Xiao did it in one go, leaving them stunned and offering up the foundation of their sect for a daring bet, even in the face of the threat of the other eight hells. Who would dare to do this, if not for extraordinary talent?

    Yun Xiao was unfazed by their intense gazes. He took another Bag of Holding from Mu Daxiong.

    "This contains the Deste Essence produced by the Eternal Sword Prison over the years, all in these Deste Pearls," Mu Daxiong exined.

    Deste Essence, a naturally urring resource, could appear randomly anywhere, not exclusive to the Endless Netherworld or the Primeval Demon Hell

    Typically, the Eternal Sword Prison traded Deste Essence with the Endless Netherworld for goods. However, most were retained for crafting magic treasures and refining pills.

    Now, Yun Xiao''s request had effectively drained the Eternal Sword Prison''s highest quality Deste Essence in one fell swoop.

    The Sword Warden was indeed generous!

    Yun Xiao had never encountered such a straightforward and forceful leader.

    "Thank you," Yun Xiao bowed.

    "Exile Yun, no need for formalities." The Sword Warden chuckled. "As long as you don''t ask for more Golden Springs Wine, we''re all good friends here."

    "I was just about to mention that..." Yun Xiao said.

    "Dammit!" The Sword Warden was taken aback.

    "Just kidding." Yun Xiao secured the two Bags of Holding. With these treasures, he and his body double were pretty much set. On top of that, he''d also vastly expanded his arsenal with the sword techniques from the Ancestral Sword Tomb!

    He was now the direct heir of the ancestral teachings of the Sword Ruins!

    "To the Demon Continent, to the Prison Warden!" Yun Xiao suddenly looked up. "Let''s go!"

    With a loud vroom he took off to the sky on his Sovereign Sword.

    Above an ordinary looking stream in the mountains of the Eternal Sword Prison, a vortex twisted and churned, warping the very fabric of space.

    A group of over 30 people stood in front of this vortex. At the forefront were the Withered Bone Keeper and Ling Chen.

    "Exile Ling, shall we start now?" the Withered Bone Keeper asked.

    "Go ahead!" Ling Chen nodded, then added, "After it''s used, I will take the Heavenly Mirror."

    "This..." The Withered Bone Keeper hesitated.

    "Not possible?" Ling Chen''s gaze turned cold.

    "Of course, it''s possible," the Withered Bone Keeper bowed slightly. "Once Exile Ling ascends again, treasures like the Heavenly Mirror will be plentiful. Even granting one to us would be enough to protect the Sword Ruins for thousands of years."

    "You''re thinking too small." Ling Chen smiled faintly. "I always repay even the smallest kindness with great generosity. If I ascend again, your Sword Ruins will be the eternal ruler of the Nine Hells, and your Ku Family the perpetual royal family."

    "Thank you, Exile Ling!" The Ku Family''s Sword Cultivators knelt down with fervent admiration.

    And Ling Chen, gazing at the vortex, held up the nine-colored Sword Soul, a hint of warmth in his eyes. "Last time I let you down... but don''t worry, once we conquer this Heavenly Land, you''ll still be the number one sword in the cosmos!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 293: The Flash of the Immortal Path!

    Chapter 293: The sh of the Immortal Path!

    "Activate, Heavenly Mirror!" The Withered Bone Keeper stood beneath the swirling vortex, his body emitting a dim, bone-like deathly light.

    <em>HUM! </em>A pallid storm of deathly light swirled around his stooped figure, gradually enveloping over 3,000 meters. Wherever the storm touched, flowers and trees withered rapidly. Vast tracts ofnd lost their vitality as if life itself had been drained, turning into a dull gray.

    For a moment, even the Withered Bone Keeper''s body cracked open with several bloody fissures. His expression was ferociously twisted; activating the Heavenly Mirror was no small feat for him. Yet, he gritted his teeth and exerted all his strength to do so.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A mirror, resembling a white bone, emerged from his chest! Its appearance made the surrounding mountains tremble, and countless creatures were paralyzed with fear. A chilling storm of death swept through the Eternal Sword Prison, as if the mirror was a gateway for the dead.

    Around this circr mirror, pale skulls hovered, its back adorned with crossed white bony arms. The mirror itself swirled with gray mist and shadowy souls, as if thousands of faces were trapped within.

    Clearly, the Heavenly Mirror was no ordinary artifact, but a weapon of unparalleled malevolence. Its emergence finally coaxed a slight smile onto the silent face of Ling Chen.

    The other powerful beings of the Sword Ruins, gathered around the Withered Bone Keeper, also saw a glimmer of hope for a turnaround, to take control of the Sword Ruins.

    "Whether it''s the Heavenly Mirror or the Sword Relic, they were obtained by my ancestors. These are rightfully ours; why should we care about outsiders'' opinions?" Ku Xuan, standing aside, spoke with a hint of excitement.

    The Ku Family had always aspired to learn from other hells, to have a hereditary Hell Warden, but Sword Cultivators, unlike demons or devils, didn''t prioritize lineage. Change and renewal were the lifeblood of Sword Cultivators!

    Even the Ku Family couldn''t overturn the tradition of meritocracy in the Eternal Sword Prison.

    That''s why the Withered Bone Keeper ended up teaching the Sword Warden. When he was younger, he didn''t think much of it, until the Sword Warden defied him over matters like the Sword Relic, leaving him filled with regret.

    "Right! These treasures all belong to our Ku Family!"

    "Why can''t our descendants use them, when our ancestors contributed them to the sect?"

    The Ku Family''s desire to reim control over the Sword Ruins had reached a point of no return. Each one of them had be a gambler, and Ling Chen was their sole bet.

    Under the intense gaze of the rest of the Ku Family, the Withered Bone Keeper raised the ominous Heavenly Mirror with both hands. Now over 300 meters tall, it hung in the sky like a deathly sun, absorbing the essence of all creation. Due to overuse, cracks on its back worsened, with new ones forming.

    Yet, this didn''t diminish the terrifying power of the Heavenly Mirror!

    "Assist me!" the Withered Bone Keepermanded with a chilling voice.

    Ku Xuan, Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, and several other Overseers floated forward, pressing their hands on the old man''s back, channeling their sacred power into his body and into the Heavenly Mirror.

    They were all beings beyond the Fate Sea Realm, with divine might capable of moving mountains and filling seas. When their vast divine power bolstered the Heavenly Mirror, it let out a resounding ng as if a million lost souls were screaming in agony.

    It was hard to imagine that a guardian treasure of human Sword Cultivators could be such a malevolent object; no wonder the Sword Warden was reluctant to use it.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With the sacred power of the Overseers, the Heavenly Mirror suddenly unleashed a dazzling beam of grim deathly light, like a gigantic sword born from thin air, piercing into the swirling vortex.

    With a loud explosion, the vortex channel shook violently, like ake struck by a giant stone, with its waves crashing wildly, shaking the ground under everyone''s feet.

    This explosion neared the power of the Great Merciful Tribtion, a testament to the strength of the Heavenly Mirror!

    "Did it work?"

    After the shaking subsided, the vortex channel gradually calmed, its spatial fluctuations visibly altered.

    "It must have widened!" Ling Chen, standing beside the vortex, couldn''t help but smile.

    "Good!" The Withered Bone Keeper took a deep breath. He staggered back, almost falling over, a clear sign of the immense toll the Heavenly Mirror had taken on him.

    <em>CRACK CRACK CRACK! </em>The Heavenly Mirror returned to his hand, now a small gray mirror, its color dimmed and its back riddled with new cracks, indicating its impending doom.

    At least for now, the Heavenly Mirror wouldn''t be able to strike the vortex a second time.

    Tucking away the Heavenly Mirror, the Withered Bone Keeper said to his son Ku Xuan, "You go up and try."

    "Alright." Ku Xuan nodded. For decades, he and his father had a strained rtionship. It was only after the rise of Qingzan and the fallout between the Withered Bone Keeper and his disciple that father and son thawed their icy rtionship, united by amon goal.

    Ku Xuan, the strongest Overseer, leaped into the air, his Sovereign Sword piercing through the vortex like a needle through fabric, disappearing into its depths.

    "Did it work?" Everyone watched with bated breath. If Ku Xuan could pass through, the vortex would be wide open, leaving the Endless Netherworld at a disadvantage, unable to contend with the Sword Cultivators. s, it wasn''t long before Ku Xuan returned, head hung low.

    "Still no passage. But I reckon Peak Masters and Supreme Adjudicators of the Fate Sea Realm might make it through," he said, a touch of frustration in his voice.

    "That''s something," the Withered Bone Keeper remarked, who quickly arranged for several Peak Masters to try their luck.

    Unlike Ku Xuan, these Peak Masters didn''t return immediately, a clear indication that those in the Fate Ocean Realm could indeed pass through.

    "It''s fine as long as we can suppress the devils of the Endless Netherworld," Ling Chen said coldly.

    "These despicable devils, promising peaceful exploration and then betraying us first," Ku Xuan said icily. "It''s time we stormed in and taught them a lesson."

    The Withered Bone Keeper nced towards the direction of the Sword Ruins. "Themotion from the Heavenly Mirror wasrge; undoubtedly, many have seen it. We have no way back now."

    He turned to his trusted direct descendants, his voice raspy withmand, "All Sword Cultivators of the Fate Ocean Realm, follow Exile Ling to the Heavenly Land, and defend it with your lives!"

    In his bloodshot eyes, there was a flicker of mad determination.

    "Yes!" About thirty Sword Cultivators from the Ku, Feng, Yun, and Shuang Families, all in the Fate Ocean Realm, stepped forward, rallying around Ling Chen.

    "Ku Qinglian, Feng Xuxu. As Supreme Adjudicators, you two will guard Exile Ling closely and ensure his protection," the Withered Bone Keeper addressed two women in the crowd.

    Both women, simr in age to Mu Dalong and likely under forty, exuded grace and beauty, their curves not hidden by the wide sword robes they wore. One in emerald, the other in cream, both radiating a mature charm and in the prime of their lives.

    Ku Qinglian, Ku Xuan''s daughter and Qingzan''s sister, along with Feng Xuxu, daughter of Overseer Feng Buhui, were chosen. Since the three Overseers couldn''t enter the Heavenly Land, the security of Exile Ling naturally fell to others.

    "Oh?" Ling Chen nced at the two women, whose eyes were filled with untold stories, and smirked internally, finally getting the Yun Xiao treatment, and with two guards, no less!

    "We are willing to die for Exile Ling," Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu stepped forward, bowing slightly, their voices gentle.

    "Are you married?" Ling Chen suddenly asked.

    The two women paused, exchanged a nce, and Ku Qinglian replied, "To answer Exile Ling, we both have partners and children over ten years old."

    "Is that so?" Ling Chen nodded nonchntly.

    "We have met Exile Ling."

    Two elegant middle-aged men stepped forward from the crowd, clearly the husbands of the two women, and part of the apanying team. They, too, were Supreme Adjudicators, albeit slightly less powerful than their wives, evidently marrying into the family.

    For women from such prestigious families to marry outside, their partners must have even higher status, like Qingzan''s husband, the Talisman Emperor.

    "The Heavenly Mirror, hand it over." Ling Chen didn''t say much more, instead extending his hand to the Withered Bone Keeper.

    "We wish Exile Ling a triumphant campaign!" the Withered Bone Keeper said, bowing low and trembling slightly as he offered the Heavenly Mirror.

    "Thanks for the good luck," Ling Chen replied, taking the mirror and whispering to the Withered Bone Keeper, "If Yun Xiao and his groupe, don''t stop them. Let them in."

    "Exile Ling, we don''t have the power to stop them anyway," the Withered Bone Keeper said with self-deprecation.

    "Right."

    More than twenty Overseers sided with the Sword Warden and Yun Xiao, a consequence of Ling Chen''s disastrous defeat in the Immortal Sword Rankings. Otherwise, why risk using the stolen Heavenly Mirror?

    "Let''s go." Without further ado, Ling Chen led thirty Fate Ocean Realm Sword Cultivators into the passageway. Among them, twenty were top-tier Peak Masters, all in the Late Fate Ocean Realm. The remaining ten were Supreme Adjudicators, at the Perfect Fate Ocean Realm!

    This group represented the true elite of the Nine Hells, far surpassing the Sword Judges and prodigious disciples of the Dao Heart Realm. They were the masters of their generation!

    After they all entered, only a few Sword Ruins Overseers remained with the Withered Bone Keeperseven in total.

    "Is Exile Ling sure about this?" Ku Xuan asked, his gaze serious.

    "He said he knows how to get to the core of the Heavenly Land," the Withered Bone Keeper replied.

    "Mu Tianjian might make a move now," Ku Xuan said coldly.

    "It''s useless," the Withered Bone Keeper''s eyes darkened. "In the end, the decisive factor will be the two Exiled Sword Immortals. Even considering Yun Xiao''s strength at the Early Dao Heart Realm, there are many who could defeat him."

    "We can only trust Exile Ling now," Ku Xuan said.

    "What we should trust is the Heavenly Land. As for Exile Ling, it''s a fact that he''s not as capable as the other one." The Withered Bone Keeper shook his head.

    "Father..." Ku Xuan was shocked that his father had admitted this.

    "It''s all or nothing now!"

    They exchanged nces, their expressions stern, silently guarding their position.

    A whileter

    "Old Warden, someone''sing!" Feng Buhui reported as he returned on his Sovereign Sword.

    "Is it them?" the Withered Bone Keeper asked.

    "Yes!"

    "How many?"

    "Over a hundred!"

    Feng Buhui''s voice carried a hint of coldness.

    "Have they really left no one behind?"

    The Withered Bone Keeper and Ku Xuan frowned deeply.

    "A day as a teacher, a lifetime as a father, yet this ungrateful wretch shows no regard for past kindness, ready to sever all ties..." The Withered Bone Keeper''s eyes were filled with deep gloom.

    "What should we do, old Warden?" Feng Buhui turned his head towards the Sword Ruins, where faint sword lights could be seen.

    "Let''s go." With just seven of them, they stood no chance against over a hundred Fate Ocean Realm cultivators. They couldn''t defend this spot any longer and had to relinquish control of the entrance.

    "By the time they get in, Exile Ling might already have obtained the core and be their nightmare," Ku Xuan said with a coldugh, confident in their swift action.

    <em>HUM! </em>Seven chilling sword lights skimmed the ground, leaving the vortex before the arrival of the hundreds from the Sword Ruins, vanishing without a trace.

    Shortly after they left, streaks of sword light fell like shooting stars, turning into Sword Cultivators. It was Yun Xiao and his group.

    "They left quite decisively," the Sword Warden remarked calmly, watching the fading sword lights.

    "The monks might flee, but the temple can''t." Mu Daxiong chuckled. "Their family''s roots are deeply entrenched in the Sword Ruins; thousands of their kin are still there."

    While talking, Mu Dalong went to test the vortex, returning to report, "As expected, the passage has widened, but I can''t enter."

    "Since they only left their Overseers, it seems all in the Fate Ocean Realm should be able to enter," Mu Dalong spected.

    The Sword Warden turned to Yun Xiao and asked, "So?"

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao said, "If that''s the case, all Fate Ocean Realm cultivators, follow me."

    He always believed in seizing the opportunity when he had the upper hand.

    "Yes!" Seventy-five people stepped forward, gathering around Yun Xiao.

    "Daxiong, you must stay close to Yun Xiao and ensure his safety," Mu Dalong instructed, unable to enter herself. Her brother was already one of the strongest Supreme Adjudicators in the Sword Ruins! In a few years, he would be an Overseer!

    "Stay close?" Yun Xiao nced at Mu Daxiong''s imposing stature...

    It seemed this journey home was going to be a tad monotonous!

    "Exile Yun, I''d like to rmend someone to you." Mu Dalong brought over a middle-aged schr and said, "This brother here, Du Zhongyuan, is the premier alchemist of the Sword Ruins. Though he is still in the Fate Ocean Realm, his alchemy skills are potent, capable of unleashing power on par with an Overseer."

    The middle-aged schr bowed. "Exile Yun, previously coerced by Ku Xuan, I crafted the Grove Essence Pills for him, and I deeply regret it. After witnessing your prowess in the Immortal Sword Rankings, I am thoroughly impressed and wish to dedicate my humble abilities to you."

    "Alright, follow along." Yun Xiao could tell these two were among the top Supreme Adjudicators. Out of the seventy-five people in his group, exactly twenty-five were Supreme Adjudicators, most stronger than Qin Tian, the one who took Ling Chen''s sword bone.

    Their fervent gazes followed Yun Xiao, each willing to die for him. This was a testament to Yun Xiao''s awe-inspiring presence in the Eternal Sword Prison.

    In just five days, he had conquered a top-tier sword sect, and three of those days were wasted by the Eternal Sword humming nonstop. This meant he took down the Sword Ruins in just two days, a time when other so-called geniuses were barely starting and getting thrashed by their fellow disciples.

    "Exile Yun, stay safe." Mu Dalong watched him leave with a hint of worry. Despite only two days together, this phenomenal being had left a deep impression.

    "Mhm," Yun Xiao turned back and gave a small smile.

    Mu Dalong hadn''t expected a man''s smile to bring about a feeling of rebirth in all things. That smile made her feel years younger, her heart fluttering.

    In the blink of an eye, Yun Xiao disappeared into the vortex, followed fervently by seventy-five sword experts.

    "Don''t think too much." The Sword Warden patted his daughter''s shoulder. "That guy''spletely absurd in his abilities. In a couple of days, he''ll ascend, and in a month, he could probably pierce the heavens. Just think of him as a fleeting light that passed by, leaving you to savor its brilliance for the rest of your days."

    "Father, you''re spot on," Mu Dalong said with a mix ofughter and tears, "I''ve been cultivating for decades, and in just two days, he''s soaring past me. Too fast..."

    "I''d call him The sh of the Immortal Path,''" the Sword Warden stroked his beard.

    Mu Dalong rolled her eyes at him and muttered, "Can''t you be serious for once?"

 Chapter 294: For My People, Eternal Prosperity Through the Ages!

    Chapter 294: For My People, Eternal Prosperity Through the Ages!

    In the Demon Continent, at the entrance to the Endless Netherworld, stood a group led by the War Princess and Feng You, waiting in silent anticipation under the swirling vortex.

    Suddenly, the portal flickered with devilish light.

    "It must have widened, someone ising through," someone observed.

    Feng You, standing behind the War Princess, gazed at her profile, his eyes brimming with unspoken affection. But the War Princess, her face a mask of cool indifference, paid him no mind.

    Then, with a violent sh, the portal shuddered!

    Out stepped a towering figure, a man head and shoulders above Feng You. His arms alone were thicker than the War Princesss waist. Dressed in ck and gold battle armor, his thick ck hair resembled a lion''s mane. His face bore animalistic features, emanating a fierce andmanding aura. A horn-like spike, wrapped in blood-red markings, adorned his forehead, adding to his intimidating presence.

    Greetings to the Lion Duke," Feng You bowed, with the others following suit.

    The War Princess merely raised an eyebrow, her chin tilted up as she regarded the man.

    Stand up, the Lion Duke boomed. His beast-like eyes fixed on the War Princess. "We haven''t seen each other in so long. Are you not going to greet your uncle?"

    Why bother? You never tried to cozy up to me before, the War Princess retorted.

    The Lion Duke pursed his lips, then chuckled. Fair enough. I underestimated you in the past. Im here to formally apologize. Honestly, Im happy for you.

    Happy for what? If I hadnt unlocked the Nine-Tiered Bloodline, youd be next in line for my position, she scoffed.

    The Lion Duke was taken aback by her forthrightness. His smile faded slightly as he replied seriously, Dont be absurd. The Nine-Tiered Bloodline is the hope of our races rise. Whats my positionpared to that?

    Sure, just keep your actions consistent with your words. Im not interested in ying games with you. Its pointless, the War Princess dered.

    Alright. The Lion Duke nodded. But, your father sent me to tell you its dangerous here. He wants you to return.

    Let hime and ask me himself, the War Princess challenged.

    "..." The Lion Duke was left speechless. Once, the favoritism towards her sparked much criticism and dissatisfaction. But now, her audacity seemed boundless, and even he didn''t dare to utter a word against it.

    "Hah Big Brother is a madman for doting on his daughter. Now, it seems she''s set her sights on the skies." The Lion Duke sighed inwardly. He finally spoke to the War Princess with gravity, "You can stay, but let me handle the matters of the Heavenly Land. Don''t create a mess."

    The War Princess just chuckled. The Lion Duke was at a loss with her.

    Soon after, over 60 Fate Ocean Realm devils from the Endless Netherworld emerged from the portal.

    "Greetings, War Princess!" They bowed respectfully, one by one.

    The War Princess felt a wave of satisfaction seeing these once contemptuous devils now obediently at her feet.

    "Once I sort out the Heavenly Land and return to the Endless Netherworld, there will be more tongues wagging... Wait for me!" She relished this feeling of turning the tables.

    Yun Xiao gave her more than power; he was like a poison to her soul, and she was thoroughly addicted.

    "Didn''t you say Inscription Cultivators wereing?" the War Princess asked.

    "They''re here," the Lion Duke gestured towards the swirling portal.

    "How many?" she asked, hand on her heart.

    "ording to the agreement, 30 Inscription Cultivators will be arriving. Including Fu Longxiang, it will be 31 people total," the Lion Duke replied.

    "And the Cmity Seal Sword?"

    "It will be brought in," the Lion Duke paused. "But don''t worry, they''re not after the Heavenly Land, but the Exiled Sword Immortals."

    "You believe that?" she raised an eyebrow.

    "It doesn''t matter. We have the numbers," he said.

    "Be wary of their hidden tactics."

    "Of course," the Lion Duke nced at her, surprised that the once reckless and tyrannical princess was now taking charge. "Don''t worry, I deal with Inscription Cultivators every day."

    As the Lion Duke spoke, a group of human Inscription Cultivators emerged from the portal, d in robes inscribed with symbols. These robes, etched with sigils, provided strong defense and bore a mysterious, elegant allure.

    These Inscription Cultivators had an aura distinct from Sword Cultivators, emanating a dark and enigmatic vibe. Their vortex-like eyes seemed to hide countless schemes and plots.

    They carried an inherent pride in their bones, linked closely to the current dominance of the Cmity Seal Purgatory.

    "War Princess?" Among the Inscription Cultivators, a young man in a colorful robe stood at the forefront. His eyes, a striking green like Qingzan''s, were almond-shaped, and his thin lips curled into a slight smile. This was Fu Longxiang, the Talisman Prince, one of the top four prodigies in the Nine Hells and widely acknowledged as the strongest.

    In the Cmity Seal Purgatory, he was hailed as the top genius of the Nine Hells, the future Talisman Emperor. It was only the recent emergence of the War Princess and two Exiled Sword Immortals that overshadowed his fame.

    By rank, Fu Longxiang was on par with the War Princess.

    This was his first encounter with the devil princess, and he was visibly taken aback by her allure. He had never seen such a captivating female from another race. Frankly speaking, her charm was enough to evoke a physical desire in any man at first nce.

    This was normal, after all. Her every inch seemed designed to attract the opposite sex.

    The Inscription Cultivators fell into a stunned silence, their hearts racing. Even the two old men beside Fu Longxiang couldn''t help but give the breathtaking beauty a few extra nces.

    The War Princess, however, merely nced at Fu Longxiang and walked away without a word.

    Fu Longxiang smiled wryly and turned to the Lion Duke, "The War Princess is indeed the most beautiful in the Nine Hells."

    "Let''s focus on the matter at hand," the Lion Duke replied sternly.

    Fu Longxiang raised an eyebrow. He remembered that the devils disliked when humans praised their females. Female devils were highly sought after in the Nine Hells; some even dared to sneak into the Endless Netherworld to capture them as ves. This was a grave offense in the Endless Netherworld.

    "Heh, if the men aren''t strong enough and the women are conquered, isn''t that the fairest decree of the heavens? Yet it''s taboo?" Fu Longxiang thought scornfully but remained solemn. "We just received news from the Sword Ruins. The portal there has been widened too, and several cultivators have entered, including the two Exiled Sword Immortals."

    "So, what''s the n?"

    Fu Longxiang smirked coolly. "If we join forces, we can exploit their discord and, with a little strategy, annihte them all. Currently, neither side is aware of the presence of us Inscription Cultivators, or that you opened the portal with the Cmity Seal Sword. That''s our advantage."

    "Wow, how confident." The War Princess chuckled coldly from the side.

    "You sure there are no traitors among your Inscription Cultivators?" the Lion Duke asked.

    "You''re missing the point," Fu Longxiang paused, "Thanks to my mother, we''re in the loop about the Sword Ruins, while they remain clueless about us."

    "Oh?" the Lion Dukeughed. "Your mother is truly remarkable."

    "Fu Longxiang?" His eyes darkened.

    "Don''t get me wrong. In the Endless Netherworld, that phrase is purelyplimentary." The Lion Duke grinned. But everyone knew this was his retort to Fu Longxiang''s earlier praise of the War Princess.

    The 30 Inscription Cultivators, though few in number, wore expressions of cold indifference upon hearing this.

    "So, shall we hunt down these so-called Exiled Sword Immortals now?" Fu Longxiang volunteered.

    "Absolutely. I look forward to witnessing the might of the Inscription Cultivators, the strongest fighting force of humanity. Sword Cultivators aren''t even fit to carry your shoes." The Lion Duke chuckled again.

    "When ites to the strongest in the Nine Hells, it''s naturally you devils!" Fu Longxiangplimented in return. But in his mind, he added, "Unfortunately, not you devils of the Endless Netherworld."

    "Stay here. I''ll be back shortly." Yun Xiao turned to the 75 Sword Cultivators.

    "Should we follow, Exile Yun?" Mu Daxiong and Du Zhongyuan were about to join him.

    "No need," Yun Xiao said.

    "Are you sure?" They hesitated, as their orders were to protect him closely, and now Yun Xiao was leaving alone...

    "Don''t worry." With a smile, Yun Xiao flew off on his Sovereign Sword, vanishing in an instant.

    "It''s fine, this is Exile Yun''s territory. He must have a n," Mu Daxiong reassured the others.

    In this realm, the Sword Cultivators came to realize just how absurd the rumors about him being a demon spawn were. Yun Xiao wasn''t even from the Nine Hells. Yet, the depth of scrutiny into his fake ancestry showed that to smear someone, the truth was unnecessary; fabrication would do!

    As long as there was a hint of scandal, there would be believers.

    After leaving them, Yun Xiao stood on a lone peak, slipping a Bag of Holding into a crevice.

    "The number one Demon Emperor of the Demon Continent is about to go on a rampage," he said with a smile, then vanished in a blink.

    Soon, a silver fox darted through the night to this spot. It snatched the Bag of Holding and disappeared into the darkness.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao soared through the sky on his Sovereign Sword, descending from above the Demon Continent.

    Before him soon appeared a spherical worldthe Heavenly Realm. Looking down, although only five days had passed, the Heavenly Realm had regained its former prosperity.

    A peaceful new world was being born. This beauty, born of a girl''s belief, was something Yun Xiao would not allow anyone to destroy. Silently, he descended, transforming into a streak of sword light, drifting into an imperial pce in the dead of night.

    There, in the flickering candlelight of the pce, stood Yun Xiao, d in white, a solitary figure amidst the shadows.

    Before him stood a golden dragon throne, empty and imposing. Yun Xiao stared at it, his mind filled with memories of the girl and their tender moments shared on this very throne.

    "Lil Xi..." Yun Xiao whispered, a stone materializing in his hand. Gazing at the vacant pce, his heart mirrored its emptiness. "Where can I find you again?" he wondered, clutching the stone as if it held her warmth.

    "No matter what, wait for me," he resolved, taking a deep breath. The scenes of their brief yet intense love reyed in his heart, the memory of that piercing sword thrust etched indelibly in his mind.

    "You''re back?" came a deep voice from behind.

    Turning, Yun Xiao saw the Supreme Marshal entering with a jug of wine. "Have you found my daughter?" he inquired.

    "It''s only been a few days. You''re less patient than I am," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Useless," the Supreme Marshal scoffed, settling himself on the steps of the dragon throne. "Care for a drink?"

    "I have something better." Yun Xiao joined him, producing a bottle of Golden Springs Wine from the Eternal Sword Prison. Its rich aroma filled the pce.

    After three rounds of drinks, the Supreme Marshal asked, "What brings you back this time?"

    Yun Xiaoy back on the ground, arms under his head, staring at the ceiling. "To fulfill her heart''s desirepletely, to remove the shadow over the Divine Continent''s sky, and to secure eternal prosperity for our people," he said slowly.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 295: Are Sword Cultivators Really All That Impressive?

    Chapter 295: Are Sword Cultivators Really All That Impressive?

    After a few drinks, the Supreme Marshal staggered off into the night.

    Yun Xiao handed him a Bag of Holding, filled to the brim with a mountain of resources for cultivators. Magic treasures, daoist spells, Immortal Jades, Saint Stonesyou name it, it was in there.

    These treasures could strengthen the folks of the Heavenly Realm, the real backbone of a thriving, peaceful nation.

    "The demise of those two Cosmic Immortals boosted the spiritual energy of the Divine Continent," Yun Xiao mused. "With these resources, give it some time, and everyone in the Divine Continent should reach the level of the Nine Hells. Even the cultivators in the mortal realms like the Cloud Nation will sprout like bamboo after rain, no longer gued by demons."

    Yun Xiao, wherever he went, to put it bluntly, was like a swarm of locusts passing through, leaving nothing behind. Yet, when it came to giving back, he was never stingy. And it wasn''t just empty talk; he really did work for the welfare of the people.

    Take the recent crisis in the Heavenly Realm. If Chen Xi had fought at her full strength, the losses would have been much greater.

    "Maybe what I bring to this world... is bnce," Yun Xiao paused, talking to himself. "To put it inly, I''m robbing the rich to help the poor. Right now, the rich are the Sword Ruins, the poor are the Divine Continent. Diverting the water of the Eternal Sword Prison to irrigate thends of the Divine Continent, letting the weak rise and seek opportunities, gaining more dignity."

    "Cut the crap, you''re just justifying your exploitation of the Sword Ruins," Blue Star chuckled. After saying this, he retched and spat out another batch of enhanced Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    "The more they enjoy now, the better I''ll feel when I surpass them," Yun Xiaoughed. The dao was boundless, and there would always be higher ces like the Nine Hells for him to exploit.

    "Since your Dao Heart is tied to the mortal world, you must experience trials there. No matter where you go, you always think of themon folk at the bottom... Maybe that''s what strengthens your Dao Heart," Blue Star said, somewhat skeptical.

    "Once in the abyss, one can''t forget the suffering of the people." Yun Xiao closed his eyes gently, his mind wandering back to his days in the Cloud Nation. Commoners, demons, Ye Guying, power struggles, ignorance... all these experiences were etched deeply into his Worldly Dao Heart.

    "Anyway, this path you''ve chosen isn''t part of the grand n, so we can''t really help," Blue Star said.

    "To be reborn is to forge new paths," Yun Xiao replied. Although he was treading an unpredictable path, his belief was unshakably strong. His Dao Heart, fueled by a chest full of righteous fury, was not just his spiritual core but also his original intention!

    "Oh? I''ve just had a bit of enlightenment." Yun Xiao suddenly smiled.

    "And?"

    "My Dao Heart has grown. Just a few more Heavenly Dao Sariras, and I''ll be ready for a breakthrough," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Now you see that the Second Dao Tribtion isn''t so easy to cultivate, right? Without the growth of the Dao Heart, your breakthroughs will be unstable, and your control of sacred power will be elusive," Blue Star chuckled.

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao smirked. Whenever he closed his eyes, it felt as if the thoughts of all living beings in the Divine Continent were swirling around him. "I find the growth of my Dao Heart... quite simple."

    On the surface of Yun Xiao''s heart, a pure white and round Dao Heart was always absorbing everything from the mortal world, like a greedy, endless cavern. Before long, the sacred power in Yun Xiao''s Dantian grew once again.

    "Mid Dao Heart Realm." Yun Xiao stood up and looked outside; dawn was breaking.

    "So, what will you be doing about the Demon Continent?" Blue Star asked.

    "No rush. I''ll let my body double develop a bit first. I''ll roam around the Heavenly Realm to prevent any unwanted disturbances," Yun Xiao responded. He liked to keep things risk-free. "As for Ling Chen..."

    Yun Xiao was well aware Ling Chen had his eyes on the Demon Continent''s Dao Source. In fact, he''d be disappointed if this reincarnated Divine Sky Sword Emperor left it alone.

    "To covet the possessions of the Creator Immortal? Be prepared to be in for a world of hurt!"

    In the Grand Temple Academy, dawn was just breaking. The morning drill was in full swing. Tens of thousands of young folks gathered in arge za, their gazes solemn, their eyes brimming with hope for the future.

    Now, the Grand Temple was open to all talented individuals from across the Divine Continent, regardless of their background.

    People like Stray Dog, Nangong Xu, Zhao Xiaotang, and others quickly became influential senior students at the Grand Temple, leading the way in righteousness.

    Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian, hailed as the three beauties of the Grand Temple, had be almost goddess-like figures.

    The three sisters were working harder than the Mu Family ever did. In just a few days, the Grand Temple underwent a massive reform, turning into a true sanctuary for cultivating talent of the Divine Continent!

    The daily morning drills didn''t start with daoist spells or swordsmanship; first came the rectification of the dao heart and understanding of social decorum.

    "We humans must be self-reliant and strong. With a will as tough as steel, nothing shall shake us! Only by wholeheartedly pursuing the dao can we remain invincible in all battles." Nangong Xi''s melodious yet stern voice echoed throughout the Grand Temple, eliciting an enthusiastic response from the young crowd.

    "Live as a false demon, be despised for a thousand years." Su Lianlian pointed towards the back of the za, where a charred statue with a dog''s head stood. It bore twisted names, etched in infamy.

    From the Violet Emperor and Ye Qingtian to younger folks like You Qingzhi, their names were all prominently disyed.

    "Ptui!" The new students spat at it, a warning to themselves.

    "Morning drill over, in an hour, the three of us will teach the Flying Sword technique at the Flying Crane Hall. All Sword Cultivators are wee to attend," Nangong Xi announced.

    "Fantastic!" Excitement gleamed in the eyes of the young Sword Cultivators in the crowd. They had finally be a respected group, no longer the scum of the streets. Ordinary cultivators looked on with envy, but not jealousy.

    In the great war of the Heavenly Realm, Sword Cultivators had earned the respect of the Divine Continent with their fierce spirit! Thousands of young people dispersed in an orderly fashion.

    Unnoticed, on the roof of a distant hall, stood an old man and a young boy. The boy, bathed in the gentle morning light, wore a faint, odd smile. His colorful robe shimmered like the garments of an immortal.

    This was Fu Longxiang, formerly the top talent of the Nine Hells. Beside him stood a gray-robed elder, his eyes dull, his face marked by a scar like a centipede.

    "Not many Sword Cultivators, yet they''re so revered. Must be something wrong in their heads." Fu Longxiang shook his head.

    "Clearly, this has something to do with that Exile Yun," Old Chu, the gray-robed elder, said with a cold smile. "Who would have thought that this fold world would be the homnd of an Exiled Sword Immortal? It''s like finding a five-wed golden dragon in a gutter."

    "Whether it''s a true dragon or not is yet to be seen." Fu Longxiang raised an eyebrow, gazing towards three mature silhouettes. "But one thing''s for sure, these three beauties at the Saint Realm are followers of his."

    "So?" Old Chu''s eyes shed with a dark light.

    Fu Longxiang touched his nose and grinned. "Let''s y with them."

    After these words, two figures vanished as if they had never been there.

    In the Flying Crane Hall

    "I wonder how Yun Xiao is doing in the Eternal Sword Prison?" Nangong Xi mused, her gentle eyes full of concern as she stood by the window.

    "Yes, he left in such a hurry, didn''t even say goodbye," You Yue added.

    "I hope we''ll meet that kid again," Su Lianlian saidzily, lounging with her legs crossed and stretching. "I must admit, life''s much more fulfilling now."

    "It''s certainly better than before, everything is looking up," Nangong Xi turned around. "With the Immortal Empire valuing Sword Cultivators, and our legacy in the Sword Realm, our lineage can only get better. Maybe one day, we might even revive the glory of the ancient Sword Realm."

    "If that happens, we''ll make it into the history books," Su Lianlian''s eyes sparkled. "Being a little aunt is really paying off."

    Suddenly, a leisurely male voice reached their ears.

    "Sword Cultivators, are they really that impressive?"

    Startled at first, the trio then solemnly looked towards the audience. Out of nowhere, a man in a colorful robed garment stood there! He was surrounded by a swirling mist of colors, profound and ethereal, with a faint smile ying on his lips, showcasing his ability tomand the scene.

    To the three women, his sudden appearance, coupled with the aura of his Dao Heart, exerted an invisible pressure, instinctively invoking a sense of fear in them, causing fine beads of sweat to form on their foreheads and temples.

    "May I ask, are you a high Immortal?" Nangong Xi quickly asked, her voice tinged with nervousness. She was aware that with the barriers of the world now open, beings from other realms might descend upon the Heavenly Realm, and one nce told her this man was not to be trifled with.

    "A high Immortal? A true Immortal?" Fu Longxiang stepped forward, moving towards them. A chilling pressure, like des, weighed on their hearts.

    The three women exchanged nces, holding their breath. "We humble ones pay homage to the high Immortal." They bowed their heads, not daring to look directly, and greeted him respectfully.

    "Don''t be nervous, I just want to discuss some matters with you," Fu Longxiang spoke softly.

    "Please enlighten us, high Immortal," Nangong Xi said.

    "Look up." As Fu Longxiang spoke, he gently lifted her chin with his fingertip, his eyes teasing.

    "Yes..." Nangong Xi raised her head to meet his gaze, her eyes filled with reverence, not daring to make any other move.

    "Open your eyes, and see what this is." At Fu Longxiang''s brow, there was a colorful sigil! As he spoke, his fingertip touched the sigil, causing it to suddenly burst into a dazzling bright light.

    In an instant, a dazzling Life Sigil materialized before the three women, transforming the entire Flying Crane Hall into a rainbow paradise. But this seemingly beautiful runic sigil felt like mountains bearing down on them, an immense weight atop their heads.

    Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian trembled, instinctively stepping back, shrinking together.

    "The majesty of the high Immortal is unparalleled, spanning from ancient times to the present!" the three eximed, shock resonating in their hearts. They could only bite their lips, kneeling dumbfounded, their eyes haunted by emerging nightmares.

    Fu Longxiang, sensing their fear, couldn''t help but break into a sly grin.

    "I have a question for you." He slightly narrowed his eyes, speaking slowly, "Who do you think is more formidable, me or Yun Xiao?"

    "Naturally, the high Immortal is far more formidable," Nangong Xi replied, head bowed.

    "Oh? So, you really know Yun Xiao and have a close rtionship with him?" Fu Longxiang asked.

    Nangong Xi didn''t expect he was just fishing for information! She had unwittingly fallen into his trap. Clearly, this man was a rather sinister character.

    "Yun Xiao is the consort of the Empress of the Immortal Empire; everyone knows him. We serve the Immortal Empire, so technically, we are his subordinates," Nangong Xi replied without panic, partially truthfully.

    "Is that so?" Fu Longxiang chuckled coldly. "Then back to my earlier question: Do you think Sword Cultivators are very impressive?"

 Chapter 296: I Really Am Easily Provoked!

    Chapter 296: I Really Am Easily Provoked!

    "Most esteemed one, as Sword Cultivators, we fight against demons. And since the Immortal Empire holds Sword Cultivators in high regard, it seems to us that the path of the sword is indeed a worthy one... May I be so bold as to ask if you, Immortal, have a deeper insight, to enlighten a humble and dull mortal like myself?" Nangong Xi said respectfully, her head bowed.

    "Ha ha ha..." Fu Longxiang chuckled a few times, his colorful Life Sigil pressing down slightly in his hand. The faces of the three women paled instantly, feeling as though their organs were being ground to dust.

    "This is called a Life Sigil. It belongs to the strongest cultivation system among humans," Fu Longxiang said, his eyes heating up with fervor.

    "I see, no wonder it''s so terrifying." Su Lianlian looked up in admiration.

    "Do you also think Inscription Cultivators are formidable?" Fu Longxiang walked past them and sat down on the central throne. He spread his legs, grasped the armrests, and tilted his chin up, gazing down at the three women with amanding air.

    "Yes." The three women could only turn around and continue kneeling. In reality, they were sweating profusely, their lives hanging by a thread in the hands of another.

    "If that''s the case, from this moment forward, in this human realm called the Divine Continent, the way of the sword shall be forbidden!" Fu Longxiang tapped the armrest lightly, casually continuing, "Issue the order. Demote the way of the sword to inferior status. Newborns are forbidden to practice swordsmanship, existing Sword Cultivators are not allowed to manifest their Sword Souls. Those who vite this will be put to death, along with their nine familial generations."

    "Uh..." Hearing this, the faces of the three women turned ashen as if struck by lightning.

    "What, do you dare defy the decree of an Immortal?" Fu Longxiang asked mockingly.

    "We dare not." Nangong Xi bowed deeply. "It''s just that... we can only pass the Immortal''s decree to our sovereign."

    "You need not ry the message; my people will inform your so-called sovereign," Fu Longxiang said with authority.

    "Yes!" The three women felt a chill in their hearts but dared not speak. The gap in power, the crushing hierarchy, was just too vast.

    "However, your corner of the human realm is quite lucky," Fu Longxiang continued with a smile.

    "Immortal..." Nangong Xi looked up slightly, confusion in her eyes.

    Fu Longxiang lifted his chin. "In due time, this Divine Continent will be part of my Cmity Seal Purgatory. You will be subjects of us Inscription Cultivators! I will integrate the billions of lives in this realm into the Nine Hells, transcending your current level! From now on, the humans here will inherit the legacy of Inscription Cultivators!"

    "Inherit your legacy?" Nangong Xi was puzzled. "How can one possess such powerful methods? Sword Souls are innate in our bloodline. Is it not the same with Inscription Cultivators? If one is not born with a sigil, how can the legacy be passed on?"

    "That''s simple." Fu Longxiang smiled chillingly. "The passing down of a system is the great work of dozens of generations! In my Cmity Seal Purgatory, there''s a tradition of favoring males over females. Female infants often don''t survive, leading to a surplus of men. I n to send a billion men to bless the mortal women of the Divine Continent. Over dozens of generations, this will create a golden age of Inscription Cultivators in the Divine Continent."

    Such words pierced the three women like daggers!

    "What about the men of the Divine Continent?" Nangong Xi asked, her voice trembling.

    "What can be done? Either be bare or be dead. Inept males must not pass on their lineage; it''s the naturalw of survival of the fittest. The infusion of superior bloodlines is a blessing for the women of the Divine Continent. Even you high-ranking women will be overjoyed to have more excellent men, won''t you?" Fu Longxiang said cheerfully.

    "Alright then." The three women were rendered speechless. Survival of the fittest, the unworthy not deserving to breed... was this thew of the Immortal Path?

    "The renewal and advancement of the human race of the Divine Continent into the golden age of Inscription Cultivators is a grand task for the ages! To birth offspring with Life Sigils, every woman in the Divine Continent must bear this responsibility! It''s a sacred mission to create a glorious future. As pioneers and saints of the human race, you three must lead by example, conceive soon, and hasten the arrival of the newborn Inscription Cultivators!" Fu Longxiang dered solemnly.

    "Immortal!" Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian''s eyes filled with bloodshot veins.

    "Do you not wish toply?" Fu Longxiang nced over their figures. "With your... assets, each of you could easily raise ten children."

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Nangong Xi suddenly stood up, her eyes zing red. "Immortal, you may practice profound immortal arts, but did your master or parents ever teach you that matters of marriage and love should not force a woman''s will?"

    "You?" Fu Longxiang, initially jesting, suddenly turned ice-cold upon hearing this. His oppressive aura forced Nangong Xi to kneel, her knees hitting the ground so hard they bled.

    "Are you an idiot?" Su Lianlian couldn''t hold back anymore. She stood up abruptly, pointing at Fu Longxiang''s nose. "A despicable creature, born without a mother''s nurturing! If you''re so fond of breeding, why don''t you go mate with your own mother? Damned imbecile!"

    "I''ve always said, there''s no such thing as the virtuous leading the way on the path of Immortals. The more vile the creature, the higher they climb," You Yue said coldly.

    Nangong Xi had knelt, but they had stood up.

    "You think a few insults will provoke me to kill you right away?" Fu Longxiang sneered, his face turning extremely sinister. He looked towards the dark space behind them and said with a smile, "Old Chu, I gift you three young maidens. Please ensure they give birth until they die. With your vigor, that shouldn''t be a problem, right?"

    "As his Majestymands, even if I have to expend everyst bit of my energy, I''ll contribute to the great cause of the Divine Continent''s conscription to the Cmity Seal Purgatory, even at the cost of my life," the gray-robed elder said as he appeared. His eyes gleamed at the sight of the three women. His face, scarred like a centipede''s trail, and his yellow teeth were utterly revolting.

    "Perfect," Fu Longxiang stood up, looking indifferently at the three ashen-faced women. "In a bit, tens of thousands of students wille here to learn the art of the Flying Sword. Old Chu, you''ll demonstrate to the kids what the Eternal Sword and Triple Explosion of the Realms mean!"

    "Such a tough task for an old man like me," Old Chu said, his dark eyes sweeping over the three women, his desire overwhelming. He licked his cracked, dry lips and sinisterly smiled. "Luckily, there are no acquaintances here. Letting loose for once makes life worth living."

    "Brilliant," Fu Longxiang crossed his arms and sneered, "What''s the purpose of cultivation and power? Simple. To breakws, ethics, morality. Do whatever you want. Only the weak obeyws; the strong are thew themselves!"

    "Indeed!" Old Chu apuded.

    "Get started before they take their own lives," Fu Longxiang suggested.

    "Understood!" Old Chu, a top Supreme Adjudicator of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, was too powerful for them to resist, let alone consider suicide.

    Their conversation revealed the brutal survival of the fittest reality of the higher cultivation world to Nangong Xi and the others. It had always been this way!

    The gray-robed elder, repulsive and nauseating, was even more powerful than Fu Longxiang!

    From the moment he appeared, Nangong Xi and the others couldn''t even move, only watching as the old man approached, chuckling.

    Halfway, he even sneakily took a blue pill from his Bag of Holding, rejuvenating himself momentarily.

    "Ah..." The eyes of the women were filled with sorrow. Pain, despair, helplessness, and bleakness washed over them! What was even more unbearable was the thought of the young children who admired them, approaching the hall. How would their hearts cope with witnessing this scene?

    "Old Chu, why are you taking a pill now?" Fu Longxiangughed heartily from his throne.

    "These threedies are top-notch, too hot to handle. Even you, young as you are, might not manage. What about an old man like me?" Old Chu chuckled sheepishly. The pill''s effects were apparent; his eyes turned blood-red, his body sweating profusely, exuding an even more revolting smell.

    "Crying already? Don''t hurry, there''s more toe."

    The gray-robed elder grinned and rushed forward, his eyes filled with the mocking amusement of the powerful.

    This was their most desperate moment!

    "Ha ha ha..." Fu Longxiang''sughter even echoed outside the hall.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The gray-robed elder lunged straight at Nangong Xi!

    Nangong Xi desperately wanted to die, but all she could do was cry a river of tears!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, the ceiling of the Flying Crane Hall suddenly burst open! A dark shadow descended from the sky!

    "What''s going on!?" The gray-robed elder and Fu Longxiang were startled.

    "Get lost!" The gray-robed elder, seeing the shadow charging at him, sneered angrily and unleashed a powerful wave of sacred power!

    "A Taotie?!" In that instant, he saw the form of the shadow clearly and was terrified out of his wits! With a horrific scream, the shadow pounced on him, opening its gaping maw and biting down on his head!

    With a loud crunch, his head exploded like a watermelon, with a stter of red and white!

    <em>THUD! </em>The headless body of the gray-robed elder spun around on the ground, iling its arms.

    A young man in white suddenly descended from above, his sword shing out in a flurry, striking dozens of times!

    The minced flesh and bone fragments gathered on his sword, forming a storm of blood and flesh!

    The young man flicked his sword, hurling a mass of bloody bone fragments onto Fu Longxiang''s face! The young prince was immediately covered in filth!

    "Uh..." Fu Longxiang trembled all over, the rigid smile on his face finally fading. Then, with trembling eyes, he looked towards the young man in white, and the ck-scaled beast beside him!

    The ck-scaled beast had now transformed into a small ck creature, hopping and jumping into Nangong Xi''s arms.

    On its chest, a pair of bright, innocent red eyes looked up at Nangong Xi, seemingly begging for praise. Atop its head, its azure blue eyes held a look of disdain and pride.

    "Yun Xiao..." When the trio recognized the young man in white, their tears of fear transformed into tears of joy, streaming down their faces. Clutching each other''s dresses, they realized they were drenched in sweat from the fright. But relief washed over them; they were saved!

    Seeing Yun Xiao was like waking from a nightmare; their tears wouldn''t stop. The man before them had changed from an old, ugly geezer to the most handsome Creator Immortal in the world. The shock of such a visual transformation was overwhelming for any woman.

    "Really, Yun Xiao? Did you have to appear at the scariest moment?" Su Lianlian scolded, but her eyes were filled with happy tears.

    "No, I actually arrived earlier. I just wanted to hear the inner machinations of these so-called superior Inscription Cultivators," Yun Xiao said coolly, his indifferent eyes turning towards Fu Longxiang. "I must say, it was quite the spectacle."

    "You little rascal..." Su Lianlian was exasperated.

    He had been there all along and watched them get scared like this?

    <em>BANG! </em>Just then, the doors of the Flying Crane Hall opened, and young disciples entered, witnessing this astonishing scene.

    "So, you''re Yun Xiao, the Exiled Sword Immortal?" Fu Longxiang eyed the little ck beast warily, addressing Yun Xiao coldly, "Quite the timing for an entrance. But I wonder, do you have the courage for a fair fight with me?"

    "Cut the bullshit. Just say it out loud. You''re scared of my friend here, and you''re trying to provoke me into a duel to use me as a shield," Yun Xiao said.

    "..." Fu Longxiang shivered inwardly, feeling a chill down his spine. His n was seen through!

    "But you''re right in one aspect." Yun Xiao gripped his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, his eyes fixed on Fu Longxiang. Amidst the fervent gazes of the Sword Cultivator disciples, he lunged toward the young heir of the Cmity Seal Purgatory. "I really am easily provoked!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 297: Dual Cultivator of Sword and Sigil

    Chapter 297: Dual Cultivator of Sword and Sigil

    After the grand battle of the Immortal Sword Rankings, the seven Hell Demon Sword Rings had finally converged upon the Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    At the moment, Yun Xiao triggered the seven Sword Rings, the demon magic within them erupting outAzure Heaven Firestorm, Illusory Moon, Netherworld Ghostwater, Bone Thunder''s Spark, Blood Inheritance''s Ghostfire, Necropolis Lament, and Seven Worlds Fox Heart!

    A storm of demon magic immediately swept through the entire Flying Crane Hall!

    "Fall back!" Nangong Xi hurriedly led the newly arrived students to retreat, sparing them from the crossfire of these <em>Immortal</em> levelbatants.

    These students, having no concept of cultivation realms beyond the Awakened Emperor Realm, were unsure if Yun Xiao, in just a few days, could emerge victorious. Naturally, their hearts were tinged with worry.

    As the Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian urged the students to withdraw, they turned back to gaze upon the battle.

    "His Sword Aura... that''s at least 10,000yers, right?"

    Only then did they truly see the extent of Yun Xiao''s Sword Aura, and their hearts skipped a beat.

    For the Heavenly Realm, ustomed to 500yers being around the upper limit for a Sword Aura, 10,000yers were an untouchable miracle!

    "And the demon magic for those Sword Rings..."

    Before their eyes, Yun Xiao''s sword gave birth to an enormous azure phoenix, coiling around the murky depths of theherworld. The de crackled and sizzled with ghoulish lightning serpents and tongues of crimson mes.

    Above Heaven Burial, a pitch ck moon hung in the sky, like an abyss devouring everything. Additionally, seven illusory worlds encircled it, echoing with the eerie cries ofmenting spirits within a vast necropolis.

    "How terrifying!"

    Everyone keenly felt the frightening power of Yun Xiao''s Sword Aura and Sword Rings. It was beyond their wildest imaginations.

    Any one of these demon magics far eclipsed the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor''s Night March of a Hundred Ghosts!

    On Yun Xiao''s sword, it was as if seven ferocious ancient demons were shackled, unleashing an aura of untamed savagery!

    To the Sword Cultivators, Yun Xiao''s sword setup shattered their boundaries ofmon sense. Even to Fu Longxiang, a seasoned Inscription Cultivator, this was nothing short of staggering.

    "A Sword Aura of 10,001yers, and seven Hell Demon Sword Rings... this setup surpasses even that of the Sword Warden himself! The Sword Ruins has really pulled out all the stops..." Fu Longxiang furrowed his brow deeply.

    Yun Xiao belonged to the younger generation, but he was wielding the might of a peak expert of the Nine Hells. He truly possessed the qualifications to sweep aside all other young talents.

    "Thankfully, I brought the Cmity Seal Sword today!" Fu Longxiang thought to himself. "There have been many Sword Wardens of the Sword Ruins, but there''s only one Cmity Seal Sword! Since ancient times, our Cmity Seal Sword could easily suppress the Sword Soul of any Sword Warden of the Sword Cultivators!"

    Fu Longxiang was more wary of that little ck beast. Seeing it showing no signs of intervening, he felt slightly relieved and pinned all his hopes of escape on this duel, his eyes flickering with a deadly resolve.

    "He''s stronger than the other Exiled Sword Immortal. If I y him, I''ll be doing a great service to the Nine Hells..." This thought shed through Fu Longxiang''s mind, his fighting spirit unwavering and zing. As the heir to the Cmity Seal Purgatory, Old Chu''s death did not deter him.

    "The movements of us Inscription Cultivators might have been revealed, but the silver lining is that this is his homnd. Everyone here is his Achilles'' heel. I have plenty of opportunities."

    Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian, along with the entire Grand Temple and Heavenly Realm, were all potential hostages to be leveraged in his eyes.

    With these thoughts, Fu Longxiang''s resolve grew even more fearless. All these were rapid mental calctions he made in the blink of an eye. With each realization, his desire for battle intensified threefold.

    In the end, his killing intent surged like a tempest, his demeanor as grand as the mountains!

    "Why should a ruler of sigils fear a Sword Cultivator?" With a wave of his hand, Fu Longxiang summoned a dazzling array of colors. In his left hand, a zing Life Sigil took shape, floating before him, resonating with his sacred power. Countless runic inscriptions flowed between him and the sigil.

    These Runes, like Sword Aura, increased in power with their numberthe more, the mightier the Inscription Cultivator.

    In spite of his young age, Fu Longxiang already possessed over 5,000 Runes! This was a testament to his extraordinary talent in the Nine Hells!

    The Myriad Manifestations Sigil that Fu Longxiang wielded was like a bnced world unto itself, epassing all elementswind, fire, water, earth, and thunder flowed within. He seemed like a fusion of man and sigil, his robe of symbols lending him an aura not outdone by Yun Xiao''s sword!

    Fu Longxiang''s confidence soared anew. Stretching out his right hand, he grasped at the void, and with a cold voice dered, "The strongest are those who master both sword and sigil!"

    A two-foot sword appeared in the palm of his right hand. This sword, merely two feet in length and as wide as a palm, resembled a peach wood sword. However, it was covered with tens of thousands of crimson inscriptions, each sealing a wild and ancient power.

    This was the Cmity Seal Sword! One of the top three super treasures of the Nine Hells, forged from an Aurum grade Immortal ore, it inherently possessed the primal power of the deste and vast wilderness. Though a sword by shape, it was the pride of Inscription Cultivators.

    There was an ancient joke in the Nine Hells

    <em>Inscription Cultivators have Life Sigils. Sword Cultivators have Sword Souls. Yet, the strongest sword in the Nine Hells doesn''t belong to the Eternal Sword Prison, but the Cmity Seal Purgatory!</em>

    ording to legend, the Cmity Seal Sword could shatter any Sword Soul, casting an eternal shadow over the Sword Ruins. Its very existence was a constant reminder that the path of the sword was a futile one.

    So, every Sword Cultivator of the Nine Hells couldn''t help but loathe the Cmity Seal Sword. All except for Qingzan, who was betrothed to the Cmity Seal Purgatory

    The moment Fu Longxiang unsheathed the Cmity Seal Sword, his already formidable aura magnified exponentially. With a divine sigil in one hand and a legendary sword in the other, he was the embodiment of the Nine Hells'' top talent.

    Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian started thinking that he might even surpass Old Chu in strength.

    "Retreat further!" With her heart racing, Nangong Xi had no choice but to pin her hopes on the young man in white.

    "A dual cultivator of both sword and sigil?" Yun Xiao paused, his serene gazending on the Cmity Seal Sword that Fu Longxiang took such pride in.

    "For thousands of years, many have not bowed to the Cmity Seal Sword. Yet, they all met their doom, their swords shattered against the unyielding," Fu Longxiang said with a smirk, his eyes zing with intensity. "So, you so-called Sword Cultivators, from beginning to end, have been cultivating nothing but loneliness! Trying to sh souls against weapons, it seems fierce but is foolish. Why not leave sword-making to the cksmiths?"

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao replied. The Talisman Prince''s words reminded him of the crown prince of Violet Sky. It hadn''t been long, but by now, the grass on his grave had to be lush and green, right?

    "Well then! Let a pretender show an Exiled Sword Immortal like you what true swordsmanship is." Fu Longxiang gripped the Cmity Seal Sword tightly. Its ten thousand inscriptions began to glow, unleashing a torrent of primal forces, even resonating with the roar of a dragon!

    <em>HUM! </em>Fu Longxiang spoke of swordsmanship, but his hands moved in unison! His left hand traced runic symbols onto the Myriad Manifestations Sigil. In an instant, radiant light burst forth, turning the sigil into an amplifier for his daoist spells.

    A total of 5,000 Runes hummed, transforming into tens of thousands of colorful figures rushing towards Yun Xiao, like a tidal wave of radiant light!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The myriad figures surged forward, like a thousand armies charging in unison!

    His one move showcased the superiority of Inscription Cultivators over ordinary cultivators. Whatever one could do, the other could do better and stronger!

    The Myriad Manifestations Sigil became the foundation of the daoist spell, like a colorful vortex forming a prison of myriad images, swirling down upon Yun Xiao in a stunning spectacle.

    "Hmph." Beneath the myriad image prison, Fu Longxiangs right hand flickered, and the Cmity Seal Sword astonishingly shrank, transforming into a sharp Flying Sword!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Amidst the colorful light, Fu Longxiang sneered and thrust the Cmity Seal Sword forward with lethal intent.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The sword''s path was unpredictable, turning its trajectory into a chasm of hell, engulfing everything with a mist of gray, deathly souls.

    Though just a Flying Sword, it moved like a gray reed, slicing through the colorful oppression of the myriad image prison, aiming straight for Yun Xiaos throat!

    Withered Spirit Sword Canon, Rootless Grass? Yun Xiao recognized it at a nce. "Your mother must be proud, passing down the orthodox techniques of the Sword Ruins directly to an Inscription Cultivator."

    The Withered Spirit Sword Canon was a top-tier sword technique of the Ku Family, ranked at Ignis grade, even more powerful than the Taiji Sword Art, and one of the fundamental pirs of Sword Ruins!

    Fu Longxiang''s execution of Rootless Grass with the Cmity Seal Sword captured its essence, showing Qingzan''s dedication to teaching him swordsmanship.

    Sadly, Yun Xiao had long grasped the full essence of the technique!

    "This is what you call Rootless Grass!" With a casual flick, Yun Xiao unleashed a beam of azure light, a Flying Sword that seemed like illusory grass, yet trailed a deathly hell more than ten times its size.

    It was a Flying Sword technique, but in Fu Longxiangs eyes, it birthed a massive vortex of death, like the gates of hell itself.

    The sword carried spirits, shadows, and the wails of countless ghosts! It was a deeply sorrowful strike, like a rootless weed drifting, leaving no trace nor shadow. Yet, it embodied a profound resentment that triggered an explosion of deathly power!

    Most importantly, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and the demon magic of the seven Sword Rings perfectlyplemented the attributes of the Withered Spirit Sword Canon.

    In simple terms, Fu Longxiangs Flying Sword technique created a small grave, but Yun Xiao''s effortless stroke was the true descent of the underworld! Even if Fu Longxiang was stronger, these two simr swords, in terms of momentum and sword intent, were not even in the same league!

    The Cmity Seal Sword, with its myriad attributes of primal forces, didn''t quite harmonize with the deathly Withered Spirit Sword Canon. On the other hand, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, a true pir of death, was the real harbinger of destruction!

    In a fleeting moment, the two swords collided in mid-air!

    <em>KLANG! </em>A piercing, ear-splitting explosion rang out!

    Beneath the burst of deathly rays, the underworld of Yun Xiao''s Rootless Grass opened up like a massive maw, swallowing the opponent''s grave. The endless gray mist and deathly rays even tore through the myriad image prison!

    <em>BOOM!</em> The Cmity Seal Sword trembled, letting out a mournful cry. Then, it was sent flying back,nding right in front of Fu Longxiang!

    "What?!" Fu Longxiang, at the peak of his concentration, felt as if he''d been punched right on the nose by Yun Xiao, seeing stars!

    The Heaven Burial Sword Soul, carrying the underworld on its de, surged forward, instantly aiming for his eyes.

    Fu Longxiang, snapping out of his daze, conjured up a shield of myriad colored light with the Myriad Manifestations Sigil,pletely sealing off his body.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Under the continuous explosions, Fu Longxiang''s blood churned, and he was sent reeling back, crashing out of the Flying Crane Hall and breaking through several walls!

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>His organs in turmoil, Fu Longxiang turned deathly pale and suddenly spat out a mouthful of ck blood.

    "He shed head-on with the Cmity Seal Sword and suppressed me?"

    Rage burned in Fu Longxiangs heart, his head throbbing with pain.

    "Sword,e!" Reacting swiftly, he summoned the Cmity Seal Sword, which had absorbed his blood. It returned to his palm, reverting to its original two-foot width, unleashing the primal power of the vast and deste wilderness once again!

    "Who is this?!"

    "So powerful..."

    "But, he was thrown out of the Flying Crane Hall!"

    Such amotion naturally drew more attention, with many looking on in shock.

    The Sword Cultivators inside the Flying Crane Hall, including Nangong Xi and her group, were exhrated by this scene.

    "Outside!" Their fear gone, they moved aside, standing at a distance, cheering Yun Xiao''s name!

 Chapter 298: Dont Think About Showing Off in Front of Me!

    Chapter 298: Don''t Think About Showing Off in Front of Me!

    "Yun Xiao is back?" Excitement surged among the students as they turned their gazes towards the Flying Crane Hall.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A young man in white, wielding the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, emerged in pursuit! Amidst the swirling death fog, his white clothes remained immactely pure, his handsome face clean and ethereal, a perfect fusion of death and sanctity!

    "He''s stronger!" the folks from the Grand Temple eximed, visibly stunned.

    "Yun Xiao!" Fu Longxiang bellowed, rising furiously despite spitting blood. His eyes turned a fierce red, resembling a wild beast as he red at the young man in white. Sword in one hand, sigil in the other, a more potent divine might surged forth.

    "How about it?" Yun Xiaonded gracefully, raising an eyebrow at this top talent of the Nine Hells. Indeed, he was a worthy opponent.

    "The battle is not yet decided!" Fu Longxiang, who had never lost a fight among his peers, still held high aspirations! He couldn''t bear the adoring gazes that everyone bestowed upon Yun Xiao.

    This white-d youth was so wless that Fu Longxiang couldn''t even find an angle to scorn him. It was a humbling perfection!

    For the ever-arrogant Fu Longxiang, this was an inner defeat! He always considered himself the most perfect prodigy in the universe, born of high lineage, a master of both sword and sigil, revered and admired by all since childhood!

    But today, in this world hidden between the folds of the Nine Hells, everyone looked at him with mocking eyes, as if he were merely aughable backdrop!

    How could he bear such a fall from grace?

    Losing to the ck-scaled beast was one thing, but losing to a peer, especially with the Cmity Seal Sword in hand, was unbearable!

    "Die!!" When Fu Longxiang roared this, it signified his mental imbnce. His power might have increased, but his spirit had fractured. It was the despair of being overshadowed by a superior talent!

    With a determined look, he turned and charged towards Yun Xiao! As he made his move, it was a dual assault of sword and sigil again!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>From his left hand, a daoist spell named Dark Torrent burst forth from the Myriad Manifestations Sigil.

    <em>ROAR! </em>In that instant, his dazzling sigil darkened, the colorful light turned to ck, transforming the entire Life Sigil into a malevolent, sky-piercing torrent of darkness. It swept towards Yun Xiao and even aimed at the students of the Grand Temple behind him!

    Clearly, this move was vicious! Yun Xiao had to intercept this attack to protect his own people. Otherwise, if this spell hit the crowd, with Fu Longxiang''s strength, it could annihte half of the Grand Temple in one strike!

    Meanwhile, Fu Longxiang''s right hand wielded the Cmity Seal Sword, shing towards Yun Xiao!

    <em>Withered Spirit Sword Canon, Nirvana Lotus!</em>

    Simr to Rootless Grass, this Palm Sword Technique also embodied the power of death and destruction. Fu Longxiang harnessed the power of the Cmity Seal Sword to create a grim flower of hell in the air, looming over Yun Xiao''s head!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The divine might of the Cmity Seal Sword was clearly stronger when wielded in his hand! This was no longer just a weapon, but a ferocious demon with inherent lethality!

    "So this is the dual cultivation of sword and sigil, huh?" From start to finish, Yun Xiao''s expression remained cold, as if watching an ant perform. "The sigil is real, but the sword is fake."

    Under the onught of Dark Torrent and Nirvana Flower, Yun Xiao stood with his hair flying and his white robe billowing.

    Even in such peril, his name echoed throughout the Grand Temple, followed by countless fervent and admiring gazes... they didn''t even flinch, such was their confidence in Yun Xiao!

    Mockery? Nonexistent! In the eyes of the cultivators from the Divine Continent, Yun Xiao was akin to a divine being!

    Yun Xiao coldly eyed Fu Longxiang, also moving both hands.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>He flicked his left hand, and a massive dark vortex appeared right in front of Fu Longxiang! The vortex, like a gaping maw of darkness, instantly swallowed the Dark Torrent whole!

    "What is this?" Fu Longxiang cried out, panic surging in his heart.

    Yun Xiao''s daoist spell was a fusion of the Wuji Dao Art, the Divine Sky Sword, and even Fu Longxiang''s own Dark Torrent...

    Dark Torrent was a daoist spell of the Cmity Seal Purgatory. How could an Exiled Sword Immortal from the Sword Ruins know it? Who taught him? Baffled by this question, Fu Longxiang''s mind spiraled into chaos. As his spirit wavered, he staked everything on the Cmity Seal Sword.

    "The Cmity Seal Sword can shatter any Sword Soul!" Fu Longxiang cried out. This was the pride of every Inscription Cultivator and their mockery of Sword Cultivators!

    Fu Longxiang gripped the sword with both hands, augmenting it with his Myriad Manifestations Sigil. The sword and sigil united, amplifying the lethal power of the Withered Spirit Sword Canon, Nirvana Lotus! His resolve reached its zenith!

    Facing him, Yun Xiao''s indifference also peaked. "A heart without a sword, merely its form. Relying on divine weapons, what kind of Sword Cultivator are you?"

    Without staking one''s life in battle, one could never possess the spirit of a true swordsman! No risk, no Sword Cultivator!

    Confronting the Cmity Seal Sword''s suppression, Yun Xiao merely smiled coldly, raising his hand to unleash a sword strike, a storm of death sweeping forth!

    <em>RUMBLE! </em>Centered around the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, a deathly Nirvana Lotus,posed of seven Sword Rings and myriadyers of Sword Aura, descended!

    Formed entirely of Sword Aura, born from the depths of the underworld, its ghostly sword intent swept across the Heavenly Realm, plunging this pocket world into a hellish abyss, terrifying many children into screams of panic!

    The disparity was clear.

    "Your swordsmanship is just that, swordsmanship. Mine, however, is the art of creation." Yun Xiao''s lips curved slightly. With a casual thrust, the ashen-gray deathly Nirvana Lotus burst open with bloody fangs, shing against the other flower!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The sh of swords shook heaven and earth!

    Outside the Flying Crane Hall, countless sword lights crisscrossed the ground, carving hundreds of thousands of marks into the bluestone floor! All the sword marksbined formed a spectacr, otherworldly flower when viewed from above!

    "Ugh" Fu Longxiang, gripping the Cmity Seal Sword, felt as if a hellish canopy had descended upon him! Their powers wereparable, their weapons nearly matched, yet he felt an overwhelming sense of despair, as if he were being crushed to ashes!

    <em>BOOM! </em>His Nirvana Lotus was pulverized into dust!

    In that moment, the Cmity Seal Sword seemed to vanish from his world, severing all ties with him, like a stone sinking into the depths of the sea! He opened his eyes to see! It was gone!

    The peerless divine sword he relied on had somehow ended up in Yun Xiao''s hands!

    In that instant, Fu Longxiang''s spirit shattered like ss,pletely obliterated. A wave of despair washed over his face, his wide eyes filled with confusion and copse!

    "What kind of monster..." Fu Longxiang muttered. Having been a genius all his life, he realized only now what a true genius was!

    This oppressive sense of talent made Fu Longxiang, the number one genius of the Nine Hells, feel as if his insides were being crushed, as if he had fallen to the ground, trampled into a bloody pulp!

    "Remember this, in your next life, don''t show off your sword skills in front of me." Yun Xiao casually tossed the Cmity Seal Sword to the ground and stepped on it. And the sword, as if a lowly creature, whined and trembled pitifully, even seeking his favor!

    This scene further shattered Fu Longxiang''s psyche.

    "The Cmity Seal Sword, isn''t it the eternal shadow of Sword Cultivators..."

    Yet now, Yun Xiao had be the shadow of the Cmity Seal Sword and of Fu Longxiang himself!

    "No!" Fu Longxiang, breaking through the deathly Nirvana Lotus and relying on his Myriad Manifestations Sigil, lunged at Yun Xiao, seeking a sliver of hope!

    He was desperate! Sadly, thest struggle of a man whose spirit had crumbled was both pitiful andughable.

    Yun Xiao looked at him with disdain, flicked the Cmity Seal Sword with his foot, and suddenly appeared in front of Fu Longxiang!

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! </em>Four consecutive strikes! The Cmity Seal Sword shed with incredible ferocity!

    After four shes, Fu Longxiang''s limbs were severed, leaving only a mutted torso that crashed down before Yun Xiao.

    "My arms! My legs... AGHH!!!" Fu Longxiang''s eyes tore open in agony, screaming, his face a portrait of despair.

    "You''re too noisy." With a swift motion, Yun Xiao used the Cmity Seal Sword to sever his tongue.

    And so, Fu Longxiang''s screams turned into pitiful whimpers.

    "Ughhh!" In extreme agony, Fu Longxiang could only re at Yun Xiao with eyes full of rage! He was silent, but his eyes seemed to threaten Yun Xiao, probably thinking, "If you kill me, my parents will make you pay dearly!"

    "Still not yielding?"

    <em>STAB! STAB! </em>Yun Xiao poked twice, and Fu Longxiang''s furious eyes burst, blood sttering his face. He shivered, wailing miserably, shrinking into nothingness. That finally quieted him down!

    "You still want to bring a billion bachelors to gue the girls of the Divine Continent?"

    Just thinking about Fu Longxiang''s era of Inscription Cultivators enraged Yun Xiao!

    They were all humans. Yet, why were these Inscription Cultivators so shameless?

    Even expecting Yun Xiao''s three beautiful aunts to bear ten children each?

    Seeing the Talisman Prince like this, it was clear what the ethos of the Cmity Seal Purgatory was like.

    "Girls are so precious, yet you favor boys and neglect girls? Female infants struggling to survive?" Yun Xiao grew even more furious thinking about this.

    <em>SLASH! SLASH! </em>He casually lopped off Fu Longxiang''s ears as well!

    Now, Fu Longxiang could neither see, speak, nor hear. His world was reduced to nothing but pain!

    Yun Xiao then produced a cloth-like magic treasure and wrapped it around Fu Longxiang. With that, even his howls were silenced, bringing utter tranquility.

    "The supreme treasure of the Cmity Seal Purgatory?" Yun Xiao chuckled and tucked it away. Though he didn''t think much of it, it was still a treasure that would make anyone happy.

    "Yun Xiao!" The next moment, a tsunami of cheers washed over him!

    All around, he was met with eyes full of admiration.

    "So dreamy! Big Brother Yun, lemme bear your pups!" a gruff voice rang among the crowd.

    Yun Xiao turned to look, and he saw a burly youth with tan skin grinning stupidly at him. "God dammit, Stray Dog! You''re even cringier than Zhao Xiaotang!"

    "Ha ha!" Tens of thousands of students and teachers from the Grand Temple burst intoughter. Even theirughter couldn''t hide their admiration for Yun Xiao.

    Meanwhile, Nangong Xi, You Yue, and Su Lianlian had already joined him. Their eyes were filled with warm tears.

    "What''s wrong? Aren''t you happy the problem''s solved?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Naughty boy, next time something like this happens, don''t wait for the perfect moment to show up. It''s too scary, you know?" Su Lianlian chided.

    "I can''t do that. Choosing the right moment to enter is a man''s instinct," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "Man? You''re just 16 years old, you little punk. You sure know a lot of tricks!" Su Lianlian scoffed.

    Despite theirints and scorn, they were actually thrilled for Yun Xiao.

    "Why didn''t you kill him?" Nangong Xi asked softly.

    "No rush, he still has some use." Yun Xiao looked towards the Demon Continent and chuckled.

    Devils and Inscription Cultivators thinking of joining forces? It was wishful thinking!

    "Yun Xiao, his backing is powerful, isn''t it? Won''t it cause trouble for you?" You Yue asked with concern.

    "I''m the one who caused trouble for everyone," Yun Xiao paused, then said earnestly, "But don''t worry, there won''t be anything like this again."

    "Okay."

    Hearing this, they all breathed a sigh of relief.

    "Then let''s keep it under wraps too. Seal today''s events within the Grand Temple and forbid any gossip," Nangong Xi suggested with care.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded. "I''ll get to my tasks then. In a couple of days, when I''m free, I''ll take you three to the Eternal Sword Prison and Sword Ruins. Let''s try to bring the Sword Ruins'' heritage here."

    "The heritage of the Sword Ruins?" Su Lianlian scoffed, "It''s not going to involve harming girls, is it?"

    "Definitely not," Yun Xiao assured earnestly. "If it''s mutual love, that''s fine. But if anyone dares to coerce the people of the Divine Continent, they''re signing their own death warrant."

    This matter would require their coordination. Their talents weremendable, and Yun Xiao nned to make them even stronger.

    With Mu Dalong''s help, Yun Xiao wouldn''t have to worry too much.

    His idea was: now that the pathways were open, rather than being passive, why not actively embrace the greater world? Connecting the Sword Ruins, Heavenly Realm, Sea of Swords, and Azure Spirit into one, forming adder of growth for Sword Cultivators!

    This way, everyone had a chance!

    "I''m off," Yun Xiao said.

    Knowing he would return, the three women didn''t make a fuss and watched him leave, lost in their thoughts for a long time.

    "What''s he nning to do with that Inscription Cultivator''s life?" Nangong Xi wondered.

    "Definitely up to no good... This kid''s handsome but wicked at heart," Su Lianlian said.

    "He''s mischievous, but he has a sense of justice deep down," You Yue corrected.

    "Sure sure!" Su Lianlian pouted, "But from my experience with men, especially regarding girls, he''s definitely a naughty boy."

    You Yue rolled her eyes and scoffed, "Stop pretending. We all know you don''t actually have any experience."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 299: Heaven Shattering Demon!

    Chapter 299: Heaven Shattering Demon!

    In the heart of the Demon Continent loomed the Forbidden Fate Volcano, shrouded in an endless darkness that cloaked the abyss. Deep within this abyss, the ground was littered with countless ck beads, each over a foot in diameter.

    These were Destion Beads, once brimming with the power of destion. The elements of wind, fire, thunder, and ice flowed within them, transforming into balls of fire, thunder, and more.

    When unleashed, their destructive power was immense. But now, theyy dim and lifeless, their deste power thoroughly drained.

    At the center of the abyss, a terrifying orb of light swirled with millions of thunderbolts, raging fires, icy torrents, and towering storms. It was a concentration of rare deste forces, a sight to chill the bravest of hearts.

    Suddenly, the orb trembled and began to shrink. From it emerged a figure, naked and suspended in the void. This figure''s every inch of skin swirled with deste storms, its silver hair flowing like a gxy, and its body sculpted like white jade.

    Its enchanting face seemed carved by the heavens, with slender, jade-like fingers, fuzzy fox ears, and four swaying fox tails. This sight could stir the hearts of men and women alike...

    Both the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity and the Will of Divine Destion were reshaping the War Princess and Moon Fairy, making them rivals in beauty to the Creator Immortal. The more deste power Yun Xiao retrieved, the more boundless the growth of Moon Fairy.

    In the darkness, a pair of silver-white eyes opened, flickering with a bewitching light. Unlike his original form, Moon Fairy now appeared younger and more innocent. Yet his small fangs, fox ears, and tail added a touch of cuteness mixed with a chilling ferocitysure to be the favorite of older women.

    However, when it came to physical prowess, Moon Fairy was the true embodiment of pure violence. His delicate appearance was nothing but a front. Even the strongest Sword Souls could only leave a scratch on his finger.

    "The Deste Essence from the Eternal Sword Prison is really something else. There''s still eight other hells to go. If I absorbed all the Deste Essence in the Nine Hells, I wonder if this body double of mine could shatter the heavens and earth with sheer physical strength?" Moon Fairy muttered, as he sped towards the volcano''s entrance.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Beneath the moonlight, hended on a tall mountain. Before himy a dim, destendscape of a hundred thousand ghostly peaks. Gazing at these mountains, he snapped his fingers.

    From between the countless ravines, innumerable demons crawled out of the darkness, their eyes red and zing, fervently gazing at this silver-haired, heaven-defying demon!

    "All hail our Emperor!" All sorts of demonsspirits, birds, beasts, insects, snakes, and ntsprostrated before him, forming a ck sea of kneeling figures under the chilly wind and ghostly moon.

    "Emperor!" The Ape Saint and Burning Saint, with eyes burning red, fell to their knees before Moon Fairy.

    "Congrattions, Demon Emperor, on achieving such divine might that pierces the heavens and the earth!" the Burning Saint eximed passionately.

    The Ape Saint, taking a deep breath and looking up at Moon Fairy, dered fervently, "70 million demon soldiers, all fearless of death, are ready to counterattack the Divine Continent, seize the blessednd, and avenge our grievances!"

    "Counterattack the Divine Continent..." Moon Fairy, looking down solemnly, pondered, "This debt... it cannot be let go, can it?"

    The Burning Saint paused for a moment, then chuckled. "Of course, how can we forget the enmity of the fall of the five great Demon Emperors and the countless brethren we lost? The Demon Continent has suffered, while the Divine Continent thrives anew. Standing at the crossroads of history, we can''t miss this god given opportunity to fight for the future of our descendants, rather than just scraping by!"

    "Your Majesty''s might alone can annihte all the human race''s strongest, leaving them headless. Without their leaders and just the Nine Heavens Immortal Army remaining, they''ll easily crumble," the Ape Saint said, gazing fervently at Moon Fairy. "Right now, the Immortal Empires of the Divine Continent are uniting. Once they truly band together, we''ll lose our chance... Their currentcency is our perfect opportunity to invade the Divine Continent and enve humanity. The demon race has been plotting for ages, just waiting for a Demon Emperor like you to lead us toplete this great undertaking!"

    "Yes, if we don''t act now, those frail humans will start running amok over us. We should domesticate them, enve them for eternity!" the Burning Saint added, recalling the prosperity of the Divine Continent with covetous eyes.

    "Well said!" Moon Fairy''s response ignited the blood of the 70 million-strong demon army, stirring the blood in their hearts that had been quiet for days.

    "We''ve always said, our real war with the Divine Continent''s human race hasn''t truly begun yet!"

    "Those ridiculous humans, dering theirplete victory?"

    "Those dreamers, it''s time for them to wake up..." The demons recalled the battle outside the gates of the Heavenly Realm, the frustration and rage never forgotten.

    "Shall we march immediately, Demon Emperor?" the Burning Saint asked, unable to wait any longer.

    "No rush," Moon Fairy replied, his gaze lofty. "To attack the Divine Continent, we must first remove the <em>fishermen</em>. There are many devils and foreigners infiltrating the Demon Continent. Let me eliminate them first to prevent external enemies from exploiting us. Once these foreign devils die, the humans of the Divine Continent will be like fish in a barrel, nothing to fear."

    "Foreign invaders?"

    Themotion at the two portals to other worlds had indeed caught the attention of various demons, causing many casualties and arousing widespread anger.

    "The Divine and Demon Continents are our turf! With me here, whoeveres shall perish! Therefore, we must eradicate all these greedy and disrespectful viins with thunderous force topletely intimidate them," Moon Fairy dered coldly.

    "We still don''t know the full strength of these people," the Ape Saint said with a frown.

    "Even if they can reach the heavens, they cannot shake our will to protect our homnd," Moon Fairy affirmed. With that, he stomped fiercely on the ground.

    <em>RUMBLE RUMBLE RUMBLE! </em>The hundred thousand mountains before him shook violently. Boulders trembled, trees fell, and the ground cracked as if the end of the world had arrived.

    "So powerful!!"

    Witnessing this, the millions of demons looked at Moon Fairy with eyes full of frenzied devotion.

    "With me here in thisnd, whoeveres shall perish!" When Moon Fairy proimed this, the demons roared madly, forming a dark, fervent tide at his feet. "So!" His voice drowned out the roars of all the demons. "Starting now, lock down the positions of all foreign races!"

    "Yes!" the demons cried out.

    In the Demon Continent, Moon Fairy had millions of eyes! Wasn''t it easy to root out the locations of all foreign races with the help of various demons, insects, snakes, and birds?

    The Burning Saint and Ape Saint, hearing hismand, immediately went to make arrangements.

    "The decisive battle for the demon race''s destiny is about to begin!"

    "The Divine and Demon Continents belong to us, the demon race, for generations!"

    Amidst the rolling cold wind, as Moon Fairy was rallying for the great war, a white figure stood atop a distant mountain, facing the fierce wind, hair flying wildly. It was Yun Xiao.

    Beneath his feety a cloth bag, a magic treasure. The bag writhed gently, revealing that the person inside was at death''s door, in extreme misery.

    Not long after, a striking figure in dazzling red floated through the wind,nding gracefully behind him. As she raised her head to look at Yun Xiao''s silhouette, her dark red eyes trembled slightly. "This guy is both handsome and terrifying," she thought to herself.

    In the breeze, Yun Xiao turned around, gazing down at this alluring figure.

    "Why can''t you dress more modestly?" Yun Xiao frowned, his eyes sweeping over her figurethe contours of her legs, waist, and soul-stirring curves faintly visible.

    "Whats it to you?" the War Princess retorted with a huff. No sooner had she spoken than her legs gave out, and she found herself kneeling before Yun Xiao, her knees shattering the stones beneath. This scene underscored Yun Xiao''s control over her.

    "Just wear something more appropriate, and do as you''re told," Yun Xiao said coolly.

    "I know!" the War Princess replied, tears brimming in her eyes, her voice low. "I dressed like this just to see you... Normally, I''m very proper, you know!"

    "Really?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "You just love to bully girls, don''t you!" the War Princess snapped back, clearly irritated.

    Yun Xiao chuckled and, uninterested in further arguing, kicked a round cloth bag at her feet toward the War Princess.

    "What''s this?" she asked, standing up.

    "A gift for you," Yun Xiao replied.

    "I dont believe it. You''re not that thoughtful," she said, though a part of her was slightly ttered, thinking to herself, "Has this blockhead finally caught on?"

    With a mix of excitement and curiosity, she opened the cloth bag. To her shock, a person appeared before her, devoid of eyes, ears, mouth, and nose, with their Dantian destroyeda grotesque and pitiful sight.

    "AHHHH!" The sight sent her tumbling to the ground, her face ashen with fright. "YOU! JERK!" She was a mix of embarrassed and furious, panting heavily as she pointed at Yun Xiao, her emotions as turbulent as the ocean.

    "Like it?" Yun Xiao, having sessfully yed his prank, burst into heartyughter.

    "Like it, my foot! You little brat!" the War Princess raged.

    "My foot? Your foot? Which foot are you referring to?" Yun Xiao asked innocently.

    Every time the War Princess''s heart raced, not just her face but her entire skin would blush like ripe peaches.

    "Pervert, you creep!"

    "You''re getting too bold, little blood ve," Yun Xiao said sternly.

    "Hmph" The War Princess quickly moved a few steps away from him.

    "You''re quite the contradiction, trying to allure me and yet scared of me," Yun Xiao suddenly said, piercing right through the War Princess''s thoughts.

    Of course, she wouldn''t admit it, instead retorting with a straight face, "Who''s trying to allure you? I have the freedom to wear what I want..."

    Yun Xiao gave her a once-over. "I''m short on time, we''ll y more some other time."

    "y more..." Her anxiety grew with his words.

    Fortunately, Yun Xiao turned to the matter at hand. Pointing to the cloth bag, he asked the War Princess, "Do you recognize who this is?"

    "He''s been tortured beyond recognition, doesn''t even look human," the War Princess said, slightly shaken.

    This young man in white, seemingly a celestial being, had ruthlessly cruel methods. It was precisely this that made her both respect and fear him.

    "Do you recognize this sword?" Yun Xiao''s hand flickered, and a two-foot-long wooden sword appeared.

    "The Cmity Seal Sword..." The War Princess trembled, her eyes wide with disbelief as she looked at the cloth bag. "Fu Longxiang?!"

 Chapter 300: Plan Set in Motion

    Chapter 300: n Set in Motion

    The War Princess knew that the Inscription Cultivator, Fu Longxiang, had left the team! She even informed Yun Xiao about this, urging him to be wary of the man. But what she never anticipated was that under the protection of that Old Chu, Yun Xiao would not only capture Fu Longxiang but also tame the Cmity Seal Sword.

    "How did you manage it?" The War Princess stared at him, her beautiful eyes wide with disbelief.

    "It''s as easy as killing a chicken," Yun Xiao said casually.

    "Freak..."

    The War Princess was at a loss for words to describe him.

    Fu Longxiang was the number one genius of the Nine Hells, a figure she, the War Princess, could only envy and look up to in the past.

    "Why didn''t you just kill him? What devilish plot are you concocting now?" the War Princess asked suspiciously.

    "Come here," Yun Xiao said.

    "Huh?" As soon as the War Princess approached him, she tensed up. Her body glowed with a more radiant hue, warmed by the blood of the Mortal Dust Devil, giving off a scorching sensation.

    "You smell nice," Yun Xiao whispered suddenly in her ear.

    "Is, is that so? When we devils... get nervous, we do emit a fragrance..." the War Princess stammered.

    "A natural beauty," Yun Xiao remarked softly.

    "Th-thank you for thepliment." The War Princess was on the verge of tears, hugging her arms around herself, feeling ants crawling all over her body, unable to face him.

    And at that moment, Yun Xiao just sniffed her for a while, then whispered a few words in her ear, "Just do as I say."

    "You''re so cruel..." the War Princess gasped after listening to him.

    "Cruel?" Yun Xiao pinched her cheek and said coldly, "Little ve, I''m giving your Endless Netherworld a way out for your sake, which is quite generous of me."

    "I have a name, I''m..."

    "It''s not important." Yun Xiao interrupted her.

    "...Yes." The War Princess hung her head in dejection.

    "Good, go do your task," Yun Xiao said, patting her head.

    Though she was tall, Yun Xiao''s higher stance made this action a bit of a stretch!

    "...Yes." She lowered her head, took a few steps back, picked up the cloth bag, and turned to leave. After a few steps, she stopped, turned back with a ghostly gaze, and asked with a trembling voice, "If... if I am willing to serve you, will my status be elevated in your presence?"

    "No," Yun Xiao replied tly.

    "Fine then." The War Princess bit her lip, tears of frustration and humiliation falling.

    "Besides, what I do doesn''t depend on whether you''re willing or not," Yun Xiao stated coldly.

    "Ah?" Her tears fell even harder.

    "Don''t overstep your bounds. Be thankful you''re still alive. You think I''m going to spoil you and put you on a pedestal?" Yun Xiao said.

    "Understood." The War Princess took a deep breath. "Anyway, I''m just your ve. In front of others, it''s still quite exhrating..."

    "Good, now get to work!" Yun Xiao red at her.

    "Scoundrel!" The War Princess muttered under her breath, biting her lip as she departed. Dragging Fu Longxiang with her, she returned to the temporary hideout of the Inscription Cultivators and devils!

    "Poor guy. Dantian destroyed, limbs severed, unable to hear, speak, or see. Aware of the treachery yet forced to be a mere pawn in this y."

    Recalling Fu Longxiang''s earlier fervent gazes, she chuckled, "So arrogant at first, yet utterly powerless before him, eh?" This thought, despite being manipted, oppressed, and humiliated by Yun Xiao, strangely filled her with a masochistic pleasure.

    "s, I must be bewitched. I almost wish he would execute me on the spot..." she murmured to herself.

    "Are you hinting something to me?" a voice suddenly echoed in her heart.

    "Ah! No, you heard wrong!" The War Princess panicked, realizing she had forgotten about the Mortal Dust Devil Seed within her and voiced her thoughts. Now she was truly embarrassed.

    "Behave well, and you''ll earn my favor," the voice in her heart said before falling silent.

    "Yes..." The War Princess nodded, covering her face in embarrassment.

    After this little episode, she seemed more resolute in her decision. As she neared the crowd, she wrapped herself in arge robe, concealing her devilish figure. Simultaneously, her demeanor transformed into one of immense pride, indifference, and unapproachable superiority.

    She promptly plucked Fu Longxiang from the bag and headed towards a deep ravine.

    "Uncle! Something''s happened." Stepping into the ravine, the War Princess set Fu Longxiang down, then shouted, "Everyone,e out! Inscription Cultivators, you too."

    Fu Longxiang, unable to hear, see, or speak, was utterly clueless about his whereabouts, his face twisted in terror, desperately struggling in the depths of despair.

    A fate worse than this was hard to imagine!

    "What happened?" Out of the darkness, the Lion Duke emerged with several devils, followed by startled Inscription Cultivators.

    "Who''s this?"

    The Lion Duke nced at Fu Longxiang, not recognizing him at first.

    The next moment, a heart-wrenching scream erupted from behind them.

    "Talisman Prince!" A blue-robed elder burst through the crowd, instantly reaching Fu Longxiang''s side. His eyes wide and bloodshot, he gasped in horror, his hands trembling as they reached towards Fu Longxiang.

    "Fu Longxiang?" The Lion Duke was visibly shaken, disbelief etched on his face.

    The other devils exhibited simr reactions. Meanwhile, the Inscription Cultivators, having received the news, jostled to the front.

    "Ah!"

    His Dantian was destroyed, limbs severed, eyes, ears, mouth, and nose all gone! He waspletely mutted, beyond any hope!

    "AHHH!!" The Inscription Cultivators'' faces split with horror, copsing to their knees, their insides as if forcibly torn apart, overwhelmed by fear and fury.

    The most tragic part was the blue-robed elder clutching Fu Longxiang, but Fu Longxiang had no idea who it was. His terror intensified, his body shaking more violently, blood pouring from his eye sockets.

    "Talisman Prince..." The elder looked at his pitiful state, his heart tearing apart with grief. His eyes trembling, he suddenly looked up, staring fiercely at the War Princess, and roared, "War Princess, you did this!"

    The War Princess was taken aback and retorted, "Are you out of your mind? With my Mid Dao Heart Realm cultivation, how could I beat someone in the Fate Ocean Realm to this state?"

    "Gongyang Sheng, calm down first, listen to what she has to say." The Lion Duke stepped between them, both to soothe Gongyang Sheng''s emotions and to prevent the Inscription Cultivators from attacking the War Princess rashly.

    "Speak! Speak!" Gongyang Sheng pleaded in utter despair. His despair was overshadowed by fear. Tasked with protecting Fu Longxiang, now that the Talisman Prince was reduced to this state, his own survival was in jeopardy.

    The War Princess, annoyed, exined, "The ones who did this were two women. One of them was named Ku Qinglian? He even called her aunt. They killed the old man together. They intended to spare the boy, but he spoke disrespectfully to Exile Ling, angering him and meeting this fate."

    "Ku Qinglian, Exile Ling?" Gongyang Sheng was stunned. "Ku Qinglian is rted by blood to the Talisman Prince. How could she do something so ruthless? That''s impossible..."

    "Ha!" The War Princess scoffed coldly, "Believe it or not! If you don''t, you might as well use me and my Endless Netherworld. If I knew you were this foolish, I wouldn''t have bothered dragging him out. Might as well have fed him to the dogs."

    After speaking, she stuck out her tongue at the Lion Duke, "Scared me to death just now. Luckily, I hid quickly and didn''t move, or I would''ve been gone too. Next time, I definitely won''t wander out alone."

    "This ce is too dangerous. I told you to go back to the pce, but you still wandered off?" The Lion Duke was sweating bullets. Thankfully, the mishap didn''t involve her. Otherwise, he would be even more despondent than Gongyang Sheng.

    "But speaking of which, weren''t we supposed to move together? How did Fu Longxiang go off on his own?" The Lion Duke turned to Gongyang Sheng.

    "I..." Gongyang Sheng was on the verge of tears. Fu Longxiang''s decision was his own, and beyond Gongyang Sheng''s control.

    In fact, he couldn''t suspect the devils, as he had just been ying chess with the Lion Duke, with the Fate Ocean Realm devils by his side.

    So, the only possibilities were Yun Xiao and Ling Chen.

    The Lion Duke said, "Gongyang Sheng, the only way you can save yourselves now is by bringing back the heads of the two Exiled Sword Immortals as atonement."

    "I know" The group of Inscription Cultivators exchanged nces, filled with grief and burning rage.

    "War Princess, are you sure it was Exile Ling who acted?" Gongyang Sheng asked through clenched teeth.

    "Heh, believe it or not," the War Princess rolled her eyes, "Oh, and your Cmity Seal Sword was also taken. When you get the chance, see who has it, and everything will be clear."

    "The Cmity Seal Sword!"

    The Inscription Cultivators looked at each other, their hearts sinking further.

    "We must take it back!" Gongyang Sheng said grimly.

    "What a tragedy" The Inscription Cultivators sighed deeply.

    "These Sword Cultivators arepletely obsessed for the sake of those two Exiled Sword Immortals. It''s bad enough they''re enemies with our Endless Netherworld, but now they dare to kill the heir of the Cmity Seal Purgatory. They''ve disowned their kin to dominate the Nine Hells," the Lion Duke sneered.

    "This enmity is irreconcble... The entire Sword Ruins must pay a heavy price!" Gongyang Sheng said viciously.

    "In that case, these two Exiled Sword Immortals truly deserve death" The Lion Duke turned to his subordinates, "Haven''t we located them yet?"

    "The sky andnd here are vast. Finding a group of people takes time," Feng You exined.

    "If we find them, let''s join forces and act," the Lion Duke said to Gongyang Sheng,forting him.

    Just then, an Inscription Cultivator hurried back, excitedly announcing, "I''ve found the location of a group of Sword Cultivators!"

    "Whose?" Gongyang Sheng asked coldly.

    "It should be Exile Ling''s group. They were hiding deep, but a demon tide forced them to reveal themselves!" The Inscription Cultivator was unaware of Fu Longxiang''s fate and spoke excitedly, "Even though Exile Ling is surrounded by the Ku Family, who are rted to the Lady, that won''t stop us from eliminating Exile Ling, right?"

    "Not at all" Gongyang Sheng''s face twisted with ferocity, looking at the Lion Duke.

    "A demon tide?" The War Princess snorted internally. Yun Xiao''s ns were so interconnected, each step so coincidentally timed.

    After learning of Ling Chen''s location, the Lion Duke''s eyes turned cold. "All units, heed mymand. Help our Inscription Cultivator brothers avenge their wrongs!"

    "Kill!" Nearly a hundred Fate Ocean Realm troops, brimming with murderous intent, set out!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 301: Helping Ling Chen Relieve His Frustrations

    Chapter 301: Helping Ling Chen Relieve His Frustrations

    In a pitch ck abyss within the Endless Netherworld was a chilly pool. The pool, swirling with a vortex, served as the gateway to the Demon Continent.

    Near this portal stood two groups. One lurked in the shadows, their numbers unclear, and their tall, eerie figures exuded an air of profound mystery.

    The other groupprised five humansfour old men and a middle-aged woman in a cyan dress. The woman, Qingzan, stood at the center of the group. She wore an icy expression on her face, her eyes a pair of frosty pools brimming with deadly intent.

    As for the group lurking in the shadows, they were devils from the Endless Netherworld, tasked with keeping an eye on the Inscription Cultivators and awaiting news from the Heavenly Land.

    After having exchanged pleasantries, both groups had long since settled into silence, only ncing at the pool''s swirling vortex every now and then.

    At this moment, the vortex in the chilly pool stirred slightly.

    "Madame, someone''sing out," an elder whispered.

    "Mhm." Qingzan nodded calmly. Her steady gaze indicated her faith in the expedition party, which included her son, Fu Longxiang.

    As everyone watched, the activity in the pool intensified.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Two figures emerged, seemingly with a spherical object, bursting forth from the pool.

    "Feng You, Gongyang Xue!"

    Both the Inscription Cultivators and devils immediately recognized the two visitors! One was a prodigy of the Endless Netherworld, the other, a Supreme Adjudicator from the Cmity Seal Purgatory.

    Gongyang Xue was also the little sister of Gongyang Sheng.

    "Madame!" Gongyang Xue, pale and trembling, knelt before Qingzan as she emerged, tears streaming down her face.

    "What are you crying for..." Qingzan began, slightly irritated, but then she saw itwhat Gongyang Xue brought wasn''t a sphere at all! It was a limbless, disfigured person! Even with a face marred beyond recognition, how could a mother not recognize her own son, the pride of her life?

    For Qingzan, it was as if a thunderbolt had struck her head-on. Her mind exploded, her insides shattered into dust. She spat out a mouthful of ck blood, staggering back, crashing against the mountain wall, her head a bloody mess.

    "Longxiang..." she uttered tremulously painfully, squeezing out the name in the most heart-wrenching tone.

    "Madame!" Gongyang Xue sobbed. Even an Immortal could not heal such terrible wounds. It was clear Fu Longxiang had no future. From here on out, every living moment would be a spectacle of utter misery.

    Fu Longxiang had no clue where he was, trembling, muttering incoherently, still struggling in the abyss of fear.

    "What happened, Feng You?" a deep voice boomed from the shadows.

    Feng You nced sympathetically at Fu Longxiang, exining, "Fu Longxiang, along with Old Chu, strayed from the group. They unfortunately encountered Exile Ling, Ku Qinglian, and Feng Xuxu. A fierce conflict ensued. Old Chu perished, the Cmity Seal Sword was taken, and the Talisman Prince... ended up like this."

    "Are you certain?" the shadowy voice asked.

    "Let Adjudicator Gongyang speak," Feng You deferred, his gaze lowered. He wasnt an Inscription Cultivator; Qingzan would never take his word for it.

    Gongyang Xue raised her trembling head. Qingzan, still reeling from the shock, was making her way to her son. When her quivering hand touched Fu Longxiang, he recoiled in fright.

    "Speak!!!" Qingzans voice, almost tearing her throat, pierced the air, her eyes filled with sword-like intensity fixed on Gongyang Xue.

    "Madame, the young master did indeed leave with Old Chu. As for the sh with Exile Ling, there are some doubts. It was the War Princess who witnessed the fight... Of course, we''re certain it wasn''t the devils, as their elites were beside us at the time It must have been those two Exiled Sword Immortals; if not Exile Ling, then Exile Yun," Gongyang Xue managed through her sobs.

    This was a devastating blow for the Cmity Seal Purgatory. Losing Fu Longxiang was a greater loss than losing the rest of the top six of the Divine Sigil Rankings. Coupled with the loss of the Cmity Seal Sword, it was an unspeakable national tragedy.

    "You said it was my little princess who saw this?" the voice from the darkness asked.

    "Yes! She''s always wandering off... It was indeed her intervention that saved the Talisman Prince from being eaten by wandering demons," Feng You replied.

    "Why didn''t shee forward?" an elder from the Inscription Cultivators fixed his gaze on Feng You.

    Feng You lowered his head, "My apologies, but she''s beyond our control..."

    After this, a deathly silence enveloped the chilly pool!

    Qingzan, still engulfed in sorrow, clutched her son tightly, weeping uncontrobly, tears falling like rain. It was only then that Fu Longxiang finally recognized his mother in the warmth of her embrace.

    Sadly, he couldn''t even cry. His eye sockets were empty, and the faint sounds from his throat were barely audible. As for writing down the name of his assant, that was impossible without hands.

    At this point, Fu Longxiang''s despair deepened.

    "Madame, let''s seek vengeance first..." the elders could bear it no longer and offered this meager constion.

    Qingzan could only turn away from her son. She stood up, suddenly grabbed Gongyang Xue by the throat, and pressed her against the mountain wall, speaking in the coldest tone, "Ku Qinglian is my sister! We''ve always been close. Do you really believe she would do this to my son?"

    "Madame, the War Princess said it was because the young master disrespected Exile Ling, prompting him to issue the death order to the other Sword Cultivators. You know the Ku Family''s fanaticism for the Exiled Sword Immortal..." Gongyang Xue pleaded weakly.

    Indeed, Qingzan knew best whether her father and grandfather were on her side. But she still couldn''t believe they would be so ruthless towards her!

    "And... Madame, are you and Ku Qinglian really on good terms? In your presence, she''s like a speck of dust. You married so well, while her husband is so mediocre. It''s only natural for her to feel some jealousy."

    Gongyang Xue knew all too well the rumors about the strained rtionship between the sisters. To im they were on good terms was nothing short of ludicrous.

    These words struck Qingzan like a sword to the heart.

    Everyone! Feng You, with a bow, spoke earnestly, When we emerged, we stumbled upon the traces of Exile Ling and his group. Currently, the Lion Duke and Gongyang Sheng are in pursuit. The identity of the culprit will be clear once we find the Cmity Seal Sword.

    It doesnt matter if its Exile Yun or Exile Ling, both are our prey and must die. Dwelling on who it was is pointless. Avenging Fu Longxiang is what truly matters, the voice from the darkness chimed in.

    Heh heh heh Upon hearing this, Qingzanughed, a sound both sinister and tragic. Indeed, for others, who did it didnt matter. But for her, if it was Exile Ling, it meant betrayal by her entire family!

    That was the ultimate heartbreak, pain, and despair, igniting a rage like no other. The worst part? She couldnt even confront them in the Eternal Sword Prison because her presence was needed here to keep the devils at bay.

    Return to the Cmity Seal Purgatory and tell my husband everything, Qingzan ordered an elder.

    Yes! Without a word, the elder vanished into the ether, riding his life inscription.

    The news about the ambush on Exile Ling wille soon. Gongyang Xue sighed softly, looking at Fu Longxiang, Madame, please restrain your grief.

    You bunch of ipetent fools, failing to protect my son. Gongyang Xue, perhaps its your family who should grieve first! With that, Qingzan unleashed a Flying Sword, piercing Gongyang Xue''s throat in an instant.

    "Uh..." Gongyang Xue''s eyes widened in shock, her hands clutching her throat as she fell to the ground in agony.

    A deathly silence enveloped the area!

    Qingzan''s presence was colder than the chilly pool beside her. She slowly knelt down, weeping bitterly beside the pool, her eyes burning with endless hatred. "Grandfather, father, if you persist in your folly, don''t me me for whates next."

    In a remote part of this destend, therey a deep valley, shrouded in mystery. The valley, dense with dark trees, was eerie and foreboding.

    It used to be the territory of treants! However, when Ling Chen arrived with a group of Sword Cultivators, any demon that crossed their path met a swift end. Later, a demon tide erupted and was alsopletely annihted.

    At this moment, Ling Chen stood inside a cave in the valley, surrounded by Sword Cultivators led by Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu.

    "Exile Ling, have you found the core of the Heavenly Land yet?" Ku Qinglian asked anxiously.

    ".." Ling Chen frowned and did not respond. He had sted several openings in the cave with the Heavenly Mirror, reaching the violet crystals, but to no avail.

    "Considering the shape of the Demon Continent, if there is a core, it should be here. Why isn''t it?" Ling Chen pondered over all the mysteries from his past life but couldn''t solve this one.

    In his previous life, he had thousands of adventures and treasure hunts, usuallying out on top. He was an expert inyouts, formations, and the structure of treasures. The Nine Hells shouldn''t contain any surprises beyond his expectations.

    ording to his original n, he should have already secured the mythical core of the Heavenly Land. But now, not even a shadow of it was found.

    Surrounded by skeptical Sword Cultivators, some of whom asionally shot him doubtful nces, Ling Chen felt increasingly irritated.

    "Since losing to Yun Xiao, even these mere mortals dare look at me with such eyes."

    The Heavenly Land was hisst opportunity. If there was no hope, he''d be relegated to being a sword ve for life!

    Reborn into this life, to be reduced to a ve The resentment that Ling Chen harbored, once soaring to the skies, was now stuck in his throat, slowly turning into a raging anger that burned him from within.

    "This world, how could it harbor someone with such a talent? Who is he, really..." The more he thought about it, the darker Ling Chen''s gaze became, his mindset gradually warping.

    "Leave!" Ling Chen suddenly ordered the group of Sword Cultivators.

    "Yes." The thirty Sword Cultivators nodded, stepping back slowly.

    "Ku Qinglian, Feng Xuxu, stay," Ling Chen suddenly said.

    At the front of the crowd, two captivating female Sword Cultivators stopped in their tracks. Behind them, the two men gave them a nce. They were their husbandsQin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai, both Supreme Adjudicators, experts of the Fate Ocean Realm.

    "Leave," Ku Qinglian signaled to her husband, Qin Cheng, with her eyes.

    "Hmm..." Biting his lip, Qin Cheng bowed his head and left.

    Once they were far enough, only Ling Chen and the two women remained in the cave.

    Ling Chen sat down on a rock and turned to look at them.

    "Does Exile Ling have something troubling him?" Ku Qinglian moved forward gracefully, her voice soft.

    Seeing this, Feng Xuxu silently followed.

    "Its not so much trouble, just a bit of boredom, needing some inspiration." Ling Chen''s gaze was intense as he looked at them, starting from their faces, moving down past their peaks, settling in the valleys.

    Such a fiery look, those experienced in such matters would understand.

    "Exile Ling, we" Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu exchanged a nce, their voices trembling slightly.

    In fact, since entering the Demon Continent, as experienced women, they had already sensed Exile Ling''s subtle hints.

    "Undress for me," Ling Chenmanded authoritatively.

    Both women bowed their heads, a blush creeping onto their cheeks, whispering, "Yes."

    Only then did Ling Chen let out augh. The frustration of failing to find the core of the Heavenly Land was instantly swept away. "Zi Xuan, I owe thanks to my sister-inw. Without her, how would I have known... women, the ones belonging to others always seem better!"

 Chapter 302: Green Hats All Around!

    Chapter 302: Green Hats All Around!

    "Qin Cheng, wait for me!" Sun Yuanhai hastened his steps, catching up with the tall, slender man ahead.

    They stood together on a cliff. Behind themy a deep valley and a cave. Around this cave, there were twenty or so Sword Cultivators scattered about, guarding Ling Chen as he searched for the core of the Heavenly Land.

    The two handsome middle-aged men stood side by side. Longtime friends with little clout in their families, they had no secrets between them.

    "Why did Exile Ling have use out? Is he about to use some secret technique to explore the cave?" Sun Yuanhai chuckled. He was a cheerful soul, a family man, and in the Sword Ruins, known as a great guy. His children, raised by his gentle hands, were proof of his care.

    "Maybe." Qin Cheng pursed his lips, his tone neutral.

    "What''s wrong? Something on your mind?" Sun Yuanhai pped his shoulder. "Let me guess... it''s about the Immortal Sword Rankings, right? Don''t worry, Brother! Trust in Exile Ling. Once he gets the Heavenly Land, he''ll turn defeat into victory."

    "You''re that optimistic, huh?" Qin Cheng nced back, shaking his head. "From what I''ve seen, his quest for the core of the Heavenly Land doesn''t seem to be going that smoothly."

    "Good things take time." Sun Yuanhai gritted his teeth. "We''re both sons-inw with no say. We just follow their lead. If they''ve made a choice, we brothers have no say... True, Exile Yun might be stronger, but his brutal and unprincipled nature is also a fact. Exile Ling, at least, is gentle as jade and acts judiciously! He''s always polite to us, unlike Exile Yun, who doesn''t even spare us a nce."

    "Let''s hope so." For some reason, a shadow lingered in Qin Cheng''s heart.

    The vast Demon Continent was like a real hell, oppressively bleak.

    "Taking the Heavenly Mirror means openly betraying the Sword Ruins. For the sake of Exile Ling, I wonder if it''s worth it," Qin Cheng sighed.

    "Shush! Don''t let others hear such rebellious talk!" Sun Yuanhai said nervously.

    "I know, Yuanhai." Qin Cheng hooked his arm over Sun Yuanhai''s, a hint of warmth and affection in his eyes. "I''m lucky to have you in this life."

    "Don''t talk nonsense. Qinglian might be a nightmare, scolding and beating you, but at least she bore you children, right? For men of our standing, marrying up is already a blessing. Be content with what we have!" Sun Yuanhaiforted.

    "Right" Qin Cheng''s expression turned bitter as he looked at his friend. He said no more, turning his gaze into the darkndscape ahead. Suddenly, his eyes locked onto a speck of light.

    "What''s that?" Qin Cheng pointed at the light.

    "Don''t know. Let''s check it out," Sun Yuanhai noticed it too.

    The light was unmistakable! They floated over without using their Sovereign Swords.

    "A wooden sword?"

    At first, they didn''t care much, but when theynded and saw the sword, they were dumbstruck.

    "The Cmity Seal Sword?!"

    Their eyes bulged, and they gasped in disbelief.

    "Impossible! Absolutely impossible! I must be seeing things!" Sun Yuanhai shook his head.

    Finding this was like stumbling upon billions of Immortal Jades in the wilderness; how could it be possible? But Qin Cheng, utterly shocked, didn''t think twice. He knelt, grasped the sword''s handle, and yanked!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The sword moved slightly before crashing back down.

    "So heavy!" Qin Cheng''s face trembled.

    "Let me try!" Sun Yuanhai grabbed the Cmity Seal Sword and jerked it up! He managed to lift it, but staggered, nearly dropping it.

    Clearly, this was a top-tier magic treasure, too powerful for them to control. And then, the sword''s runic inscriptions shifted, resisting their hold with the power of destion.

    "Qin Cheng!"

    "Yuanhai!"

    Their eyes met, both nearly losing their minds.

    "By the gods, it''s the Cmity Seal Sword!"

    They eximed in unison.

    "Heavens! How is the treasure of the Cmity Seal Purgatory here? Could there be a second Cmity Seal Sword in this world?"

    "Or maybe an Inscription Cultivator came here and lost it? But that''s... impossible..." Qin Cheng''s heart raced.

    "Qin Cheng..." Sun Yuanhai''s voice trembled, "We found it. Can we... keep it for ourselves?"

    "Impossible! Don''t even think about it! This is too strange. We can''t handle the fallout!" Qin Cheng said sternly.

    "So..."

    "We need to take it to Exile Ling quickly, let them handle it! Getting credit for this find is enough!" Qin Cheng said sensibly.

    Sun Yuanhai struggled, as if parting with a piece of his own flesh, then nodded firmly.

    "Let''s go!"

    The two, one in front and one behind, lifted the heavy Cmity Seal Sword.

    "This treasure''s too heavy to fit in a Bag of Holding!"

    Their hearts raced as they strained forward, rushing towards the cave.

    "Qin Cheng, we''ve done a great deed," Sun Yuanhai said excitedly.

    "Indeed, a gift from heaven..."

    Though Qin Cheng didn''t show it, his heart was overjoyed. He thought that after this feat, maybe his wife would treat him a bit better? At least give him some face in front of others. Their joy was written all over their faces at this moment, one of the happiest in their lives.

    "Qin Cheng? Sun Yuanhai? What is that?" several Sword Cultivators, attracted by themotion, asked in surprise.

    "Take it to Exile Ling for assessment!" Sun Yuanhai said with a smile.

    "It looks like the Cmity Seal Sword?"

    "What?"

    Hearing the words <em>Cmity Seal Sword</em>, the Sword Cultivators standing guard were all stirred.

    All twenty or so of them rushed over, staring dumbfounded at the sword.

    "It''s the Cmity Seal Sword!"

    "Quick! Get it into the cave!"

    With this extraordinary find, everyone was in a frenzy.

    Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai felt their worth in the eyes of their peers. They were already anticipating the admiring gazes of the women they loved... a rarity for them.

    "Qinglian!"

    "Xuxu!"

    Nearly thirty people rushed like a gust of wind into the cave.

    Everyone was so excited, not even noticing their own shouts.

    "Exile Ling, the Cmity Seal Sword!"

    These words, like thunder on a clear day, echoed deep into the cave.

    Every face was alight with joyous surprise! Especially Sun Yuanhai, his eyes were almost crescent moons from smiling.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Over twenty people shouted excitedly as they looked inside.

    Deep in the cave, three figures that had been clinging together suddenly separated!

    All they saw was bare, white skin.

    "Uh..."

    The smiles on the faces of the twenty-odd Fate Ocean Realm Sword Cultivators suddenly froze.

    Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai halted in their tracks! The Cmity Seal Sword crashed to the ground with a thud After that, a deathly silence engulfed the cave.

    Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai''s eyes were wider than when they found the Cmity Seal Sword, but now their pupils were fractured, even oozing blood. From ecstasy to agony, from heaven to hell, it happened in an instant. The shock from the three naked figures was like swords piercing their hearts.

    "Get out!" Ling Chen, unfazed, was wrapped in his dark violet robe. Interrupted at a crucial moment, he was understandably upset.

    "Alright..." Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai, as if caught in a whirlpool, cast a dim look at Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu. These two women, their faces tinged red and cold, dressed neatly, almost simultaneously shouted, "Out!"

    The two men felt as if a thousand swords had pierced their hearts! They turned around, as if in a trance, and ran outside like madmen. The others stood frozen in ce.

    "What''s this?" Ling Chen took a few steps forward, his eyes locking onto the wooden sword in surprise.

    "The Cmity Seal Sword from the Cmity Seal Purgatory, found by those two..." the remaining Sword Cultivators said.

    "The Cmity Seal Sword?" Ling Chen and the two women were utterly astonished.

    "Get out, and make sure those two are alright," Ling Chen instructed Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu.

    With his insight, he could see the Cmity Seal Sword was useful for his current level of cultivation!

    "Yes!" Feng Xuxu and Ku Qinglian took one more shocked look at the Cmity Seal Sword, their eyes filled with a strange light, and then they headed outside!

    The two graceful figures chased out of the cave, their higher cultivation naturally locking onto their respective men.

    "Stop!" Ku Qinglian shouted coldly.

    Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai shuddered, turning around in a daze.

    The four stood facing each other in the wind. Eyes met eyes!

    Ku Qinglian grabbed Qin Cheng''spel, speaking earnestly, "You should know what Exile Ling means to us. When hemands, we have no room to resist."

    "I understand..." Qin Cheng''s gaze dimmed, with him deting like a punctured ball.

    "Don''t be so deadbeat, as if I''ve done something wrong!" Ku Qinglian clenched hispel. "I''m doing this for our family, for you! If I hadn''t agreed, would he have spared you? Qin Cheng, please be sensible, be realistic! In this world of survival of the fittest, with a heavenly path at my feet, how could I ruin my family''s millennia of fortune for one person''s dignity?"

    "Yes, you''re so noble. I''m unworthy." Qin Cheng''s head drooped; his eyes bloodshot, tears fell freely.

    <em>BAM! </em>Ku Qinglian pped his face, angry, "Talking like that, you still don''t understand my sacrifice for this family! All these years hiding behind me, indulging in pleasures, what have you contributed?"

    "What have I contributed?" Qin Cheng thought of a lifetime of endurance andpromise, his heart breaking. "I''m worthless, sorry... I just hope you''ll shut the others up don''t let our children know about this." He fell to his knees, his soul seemingly lost.

    "Y-you Get lost!" Ku Qinglian kicked his face and walked away.

    "What about you?" Feng Xuxu looked indifferently at Sun Yuanhai.

    "Sorry for disturbing you, go on with your next half..." Sun Yuanhai bowed deeply.

    "You useless thing! Exile Ling is a million times better than you! One time with him beats a thousand with you!" Feng Xuxu red at him and turned to leave.

    Having made sure their men were <em>alright</em>, Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu hurried back to see the Cmity Seal Sword. They had evidently forgotten who had brought the Cmity Seal Sword in the first ce.

    <em>THUD! </em>Sun Yuanhai copsed to the ground too. They looked towards the cave, eyes filled with blood.

    "Yuanhai... Even Exiled Sword Immortals can die, right?" Qin Cheng suddenly said.

    "Brother, please, don''t talk nonsense," Sun Yuanhai said, trembling.

    "..." Qin Cheng nced at him with dim eyes. Then he suddenly startedughing, blood from his eyes trickling down his cheeks.

    From the cave, they could faintly hear the sounds of revelry... Everyone was cheering for Ling Chen, including two shameless women. Yet the two heroes of the hour were now like clowns. Despite the vastness of the world, there was nowhere they could hold their heads high.

    "Sigh..." Sun Yuanhai bit his lip until it bled. "For the sake of the Exiled Sword Immortal, they''ve all gone mad... Why aren''t we two worthless ones mad as well?"

    Their silence contrasted starkly with the frenzy inside the cave. Just then, they shivered.

    "Someone''sing!" They felt a chill, quickly hiding.

    Peering through a crack, they saw hundreds of people heading towards the cave. All of them were at the Fate Ocean Realm!

    "It''s the Inscription Cultivators!" Sun Yuanhai whispered, trembling.

    "And devils... Clearly, they''ve teamed up," Qin Cheng''s voice also shook.

    "We must warn Exile Ling..."

    Just as Sun Yuanhai was about to panic, Qin Cheng suddenly grabbed him, hissing through clenched teeth, "Warn, my foot!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 303: Kill Them All, and Peace Will Reign Over the Land!

    Chapter 303: Kill Them All, and Peace Will Reign Over the Land!

    The sudden appearance of the Cmity Seal Sword created a huge stir!

    All the Sword Cultivators got swept away in the excitement. Those who were supposed to keep a lookout outside abandoned their duties to marvel at the Cmity Seal Sword inside the cave.

    This was the slip-up that allowed the Inscription Cultivators and devils to sneak right in, catching Ling Chen and his entourage with their pants down!

    "We''ve gotpany!"

    The Sword Cultivators huddled around Ling Chen, their faces suddenly as stiff as a board, their eyes sharp and wary as they stared out into the darkness.

    Out of the shadows, a group of nearly a hundred devils and Inscription Cultivators emerged, their deathly cold eyes fixed on the Sword Cultivators like hawks on a rabbit!

    Their focus was on Ling Chen! There he was, sitting on a rock, holding the Cmity Seal Sword, with a nine-colored Sword Soul pressed against the de.

    The runic inscriptions on the surface of the Cmity Seal Sword danced and shimmered! There was no doubt about it, he was taming the sword!

    Each and every Inscription Cultivator and devil saw it clear as day.

    As if thunder cracked right beside their ears, the words of the War Princess echoed in their minds, "Whoever holds the Cmity Seal Sword is the culprit"

    The eyes of all the Inscription Cultivators reddened in an instant, a storm of hatred and murderous intent brewing in their hearts.

    The Ku Family, who were supposed to be allied with the Inscription Cultivators, had gone around andmitted the most heinous betrayal, naturally stirring up a ho''s nest of anger!

    "Inscription Cultivators? Devils?"

    The sudden alliance of these two factions made Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu feel a chill run down their spines.

    "Could it be my sister secretly joined forces with the devils and used the Cmity Seal Sword to open a passage for them?" Ku Qinglian furrowed her brows in suspicion.

    "It''s highly likely..." Feng Xuxu said, her eyes icy.

    With such a turn of events, Ling Chen stopped what he was doing and, holding the hilt of the Cmity Seal Sword, looked up at the approaching hostile crowd.

    "Aren''t Inscription Cultivators your own kin?" Ling Chen asked Ku Qinglian.

    Before she could reply, Gongyang Sheng from the other side stepped forward, his eyes bloodshot, and he let out a low growl. "Ku Qinglian, well done, youre ruthless! Since it''s like this, don''t me us for being impolite. We''ll present the heads of all you Sword Cultivators to the madame as an apology!"

    "What do you mean by that?" Ku Qinglian frowned.

    "Still ying dumb when you''re holding the evidence in your hands?" the Lion Duke sneered.

    "Evidence?" Feng Xuxu was startled and, seeing the Cmity Seal Sword, quickly said, "We just found this. Isn''t there some misunderstanding here?"

    "Found?" Gongyang Shengughed scornfully, "Right right You just happened to stumble upon the Cmity Seal Sword, a treasure of the Cmity Seal Purgatory? Lucky you, huh?"

    "What exactly happened? Someone might be framing us. We really just found the Cmity Seal Sword!" Feng Xuxu insisted.

    "Feng Xuxu, stop pretending!" The War Princess said coldly from the side, "I saw with my own eyes how you defeated Fu Longxiang and snatched the Cmity Seal Sword. You still dare to argue?"

    "We defeated Fu Longxiang? Where is he then?" Ku Qinglian asked coldly.

    "He''s been sent back to the Endless Netherworld due to his severe injuries," the War Princess replied.

    "So there''s no way to verify it! War Princess, it seems like youre the one who snatched the Cmity Seal Sword. Is the Endless Netherworld trying to sabotage our rtionship with the Inscription Cultivators?" Feng Xuxu retorted with a coldugh.

    The War Princess gave her a sidelong nce, too bored to bother with a reply. Instead, she turned to Gongyang Sheng and said, "Our targets are the two Exiled Sword Immortals, and now that we''ve cornered one of them, why waste time chit-chatting? Just finish off these runts, and peace will reign across thend! If you won''t do it, we will!"

    Gongyang Sheng, his eyes cold and fierce, stared at the Cmity Seal Sword and growled, "Ku Qinglian, your family betrayed the madame, and now you''ve marched yourselves to the gallows. Can''t me us for that! Ling Chen must die today!"

    No sooner had his words fallen than the Inscription Cultivators, following his lead, pressed towards the Sword Cultivators, while the sixty-odd devils, faces twisted with malice, surged with killing intent.

    Clearly, to the Inscription Cultivators, the identity of the culprit wasn''t as important as bringing back a significant head to settle the score!

    "What do we do?" Feng Xuxu gritted her teeth.

    This was almost a three-to-one fight!

    "The Inscription Cultivators showing up with the devils means my sister bypassed our family to join forces with the devils. She always wanted the Exiled Sword Immortals dead!" Ku Qinglian spat bitterly.

    "So, the Cmity Seal Sword was nted by them, and Fu Longxiang... he''s unharmed..." Feng Xuxu was burning with rage.

    Fabricating a crime was easy when there was a will, wasn''t it?

    "Don''t harbor any illusions; we swear to protect Exile Ling, break through the encirclement!" Ku Qinglian immediately instructed the surrounding Sword Cultivators.

    "These oppressive humans and devils... when Exile Ling rises against heaven, that will be the day their entire prison falls!" Feng Xuxu''s eyes zed with fervor.

    Both sides fueled their mutual hatred, conjuring up a deep-seated enmity on the spot.

    Through all this, Ling Chen remained silent!

    He suddenly realized something. The conspiracies, killings, and betrayals among mortals were no less than what he had seen in his previous life. In fact, in the lower worlds, unrestrained by rules, everyone was practically out for blood!

    "Protect me through the siege, and you shall be rewarded with a hundred generations of peace," Ling Chen said calmly, holding the Cmity Seal Sword.

    "Yes!" The Sword Cultivators, driven into a corner, had no other choice.

    On the opposite side, the Inscription Cultivators were already brandishing their Life Sigils, which were better suited forrge-scale battles. Together with the sixty plus devils, who were bnced in physical and magical strength, they held an overwhelming advantage!

    "Attack!" the Lion Duke and Gongyang Sheng bellowed in unison.

    In the cramped cave, a battle erupted like a pot boiling over. Wind, fire, water, earth, thunderall sorts of daoist spells exploded, filling the cave with a kaleidoscope of light and thunderous roars.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The barren valley quaked, trees rustled and swayed wildly.

    In the darkness, demons with blood-red eyes were closing in from all directions.

    "Break through!" Ku Qinglian shouted fiercely. Dozens of Sword Souls burst from the cave, forming a sword formation that sted the ceiling.

    With a loud explosion, the cave exploded, rocks and gravel scattering in all directions!

    In a sh, three figures burst through the top of the cave and soared into the sky. It was Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu! In the middle, they were protecting Ling Chen, who was holding the Cmity Seal Sword, as they made a daring escape.

    Sadly, the other Sword Cultivators weren''t so lucky.

    Gongyang Sheng immediately ordered the Inscription Cultivators to seal the cave''s ceiling with Life Sigils, trapping the remaining Sword Cultivators!

    "Kill them all! Only by delivering their heads can we pave our own way to survival!" Gongyang Sheng''s words awakened the other Inscription Cultivators.

    With the Talisman Prince disfigured and crippled beyond saving, they were all responsible. Only the heads of the two Exiled Sword Immortals could atone for their mistakes and offer them a lifeline. Desperate to survive, the Inscription Cultivators fought even more fiercely than the devils!

    "Trap them!"

    "Don''t let a single one escape!"

    This cave had be a living hell for the Sword Cultivators! They were surrounded on all sides by enemies! Devils in front, Inscription Cultivators behind, the enemy was out for blood. Outnumbered three-to-one, the Sword Cultivators, mostly of the Ku Family, were ughtered mercilessly!

    Before this, four figures had already dashed out of the cave! These were four Fate Ocean Realm experts, the Lion Duke, Gongyang Sheng, and two devil elders from the Endless Netherworld.

    "There they are!"

    The moment they emerged, they spotted Ling Chen and hispanions and relentlessly pursued them.

    "Sword Cultivators are fast, but with a junior in tow, they lose their edge!" Gongyang Sheng said with a sinister tone.

    "This only proves that no matter how talented an Exiled Sword Immortal is, they''re still just a prodigy, and the fate of prodigies is often premature demise!" the Lion Duke sneered. He didn''t care whether the true culprit was Ling Chen or Yun Xiao. Both had to die!

    The four transformed into three streaks of blood and one of light, shing across the sky!

    Below, at some point, countless demons had gathered, swarming towards the cave like a dark tide but the Lion Duke and the others didn''t take these lesser demons of the Demon Continent seriously.

    "I''ll stop them!" the Lion Duke dered, waving his hand and unleashing a burst of blood mist. He soared into the sky, performing a blood art that created a massive blood-red lion''s gate in the air, blocking Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu''s path!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Ku Qinglian shattered the blood lion gate with her Sovereign Sword, but their speed was greatly reduced!

    The pursuers were closing the gap!

    "Damn it!" Ku Qinglian was furious, a shadow of despair looming over her.

    And though Feng Xuxu didn''t speak, her face had also turned pale!

    The Ku Family, being small in number, had gambled everything on Ling Chen acquiring the Heavenly Land quickly. Little did they expect to be plunged into such a deadly crisis before anything had even started.

    "Only four are chasing us?" Ling Chen looked back amidst the wind, his eyes flickering with suppressed rage.

    "Yes! But they''re all in the Establishment Fate Ocean Realm, especially the Lion Duke, who might have the strength of an Overseer..." Feng Xuxu said, trembling.

    "You block them, I''ll go alone!" Ling Chen suddenly dered.

    "How can we stop four of them?" Ku Qinglian asked coldly.

    "Just stop them by any means for a short time, I have my own way of escaping."

    Even at this moment, there wasn''t a hint of disarray in Ling Chen''s eyes. As the reincarnation of the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, already on the path of cultivation again, how could he just die like that?

    "You won''t obey?" Ling Chen cast a cold nce at them. "Rx, you''re my women. When I return to my peak, even if you die today, I can revive you! Just give me some time, and your families will eternally dominate the Nine Hells!"

    "Xuxu!" Ku Qinglian suddenly looked at Feng Xuxu.

    "Shall we go for it?" Feng Xuxu asked, trembling.

    "Let''s do this!" Ku Qinglian knew their family had bet everything on Ling Chen. If he truly died here, their whole family was doomed!

    With a righteous fury and tears in their eyes, they pushed Ling Chen away and, holding their Sword Souls, turned to face the four pursuers.

    "Sword Union! Stormy Sword Prison!" The two, bosom friends for years, coordinated wlessly, their Sword Auras reaching over 3,000yers!

    Their counterattack took the Lion Duke and hispanions by surprise.

    Their swordsbined, creating a tempest of sword energy! For a moment, their swords formed a prison of swirling storms and clouds, trapping their pursuers within!

    "Well done!" Ling Chen, hovering in the air, let out a coldugh. He brought forth the nine-colored Sword Soul, his eyes suddenly filled with the power of the void.

    "Thews of space, one step to the horizon! A sword within reach, covering thousands of miles..." With the nine-colored Sword Soul, he drew a perfect circle in the air. As the circle formed, the space inside began to ripple.

    "Go now, Exile Ling!" Behind him on the battlefield, Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu were fighting two against four. The Lion Duke broke through the encirclement, charging at Ling Chen like a blood-red lion.

    "Inscription Cultivator and devils, huh? A month from now, I''ll repay today''s humiliation a thousandfold!" Ling Chen red fiercely at the Lion Duke, his eyes brimming with murderous intent.

    He stepped forward, plunging into the portal, and suddenly vanished from this world.

 Chapter 304: This Lifes Tribulation!

    Chapter 304: This Life''s Tribtion!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Lion Duke let loose a powerful strike. However, the portal disappeared as soon as Ling Chen stepped into it, leaving an empty void as if he''d never been there at all.

    "Is this the power of an Exiled Sword Immortal?" the Lion Duke mused, furrowing his brows. He scanned around but found no trace of Ling Chen. "A sword slicing through the void, disappearing in a blinktruly a defiance of the heavens! No wonder the Ku Family went mad over him...

    "Damn it! How annoying! Let''s just ughter these two women first. Without their protection, that kid will only run away and meet his end eventually!" The Lion Duke stopped pursuing and turned to attack Feng Xuxu and Ku Qinglian, only to find the two women had burst out in crazedughter.

    "Exile Ling is safe and sound!"

    "Gongyang Sheng, Lion Duke, your impulsive actions havemitted the most foolish sin in this world! Offending him, just wait and see!"

    "Don''t you think of stopping now! In less than a month, Exile Ling will bring your Cmity Seal Purgatory and Endless Netherworld to true and utter ruin!"

    Their coldughter gave them a psychological edge.

    Indeed, both the Lion Duke and Gongyang Sheng wore a trace of fear on their faces. Ling Chen''s heaven-defying act had truly frightened them. The two exchanged nces.

    Gongyang Sheng asked, "Do we still kill them?"

    "Nonsense, if you were Ling Chen, would you spare us now?" the Lion Duke retorted coldly.

    "Never!" Gongyang Sheng clenched his teeth.

    "There''s no way out for the other eight hells. Without the death of the Exiled Sword Immortals, the world will be in chaos! Those who support them must die!"

    This sentence from the Lion Duke was a death sentence for Ku Qinglian and herpanion.

    "Hehe..."

    However, they seemed to have hope and reliance, still sneering even in the face of a battle to the death.

    "I see you''re afraid!"

    "You''ll all suffer greatly!"

    Enraged, the Lion Duke bellowed, "Pull out their tongues first! These wretched women!"

    Off elsewhere, Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai were making a run for it.

    "Why are there so many demons appearing?" Qin Cheng frowned deeply. Where they were, amidst high mountains and deep ravines, countless demons were crawling out, moving in the opposite direction to them.

    "Forget about them!" Sun Yuanhai looked back and saw the cave behind them shaking violently. The air was filled with roaring spells, whistling sword lights, and intermittent screams.

    Biting his teeth, Sun Yuanhai said, "We''re surrounded! They''re doomed, especially Xuxu and Qinglian. Aren''t we going to save them? There''s still that old saying a couple for a day is a bond for a lifetime..."

    Qin Cheng, his anger boiling, shot back, "What bond? Have you forgotten what she just told you? A thousand times with you isn''t worth one time with Exile Ling! Do you have any dignity left as a man?"

    Sun Yuanhai''s face reddened as he tried to exin, "It''s not like that... I''m just worried that if they don''t die, they''ll return to the Sword Ruins and condemn us as deserters."

    "Then let''s hope they die!" Qin Cheng snapped.

    "s... We were husband and wife, had children together. We might not have had much status, but we got used to this life... Why did they have to push us to this extent!" Recalling the past few decades, Sun Yuanhai felt even more heartbroken.

    "Let''s go, brother." Qin Cheng patted his shoulder.

    The two didn''t look back again, their hearts filled with smoldering anger as they walked further and further away.

    Suddenly, a circr portal appeared in the space ahead, causing a disturbance.

    "What''s this?" Sun Yuanhai eximed in surprise.

    "I don''t know."

    They stopped and looked up. After just a couple of breaths, the vortex shook, and a young man in a dark violet robe fell out of it.

    <em>THUD! </em>He hit the ground hard!

    "I''ve been reborn, but I''m still too weak! My first time traversing the void, and I barely made it three kilometers." The young man struggled to his feet, checking his body and feeling unsatisfied said, "One traversal, and most of my sacred power is depleted..."

    He couldn''t bear being so feeble. Though he had risen by consuming a great deal of resources from the Sword Ruins, his current progress was far from satisfying. He hadn''t even unearthed a minuscule fraction of his abilities from his previous life!

    "If it weren''t for that roadblock above my head, stealing everything that was rightfully mine, why would I have fallen to such a wretched state today?"

    Thinking this, Ling Chen''s hatred for that white-robed youth grew wildly! Once, there was gratitude for a life saved, but now, only the grudge of obstruction remained.

    "The fortune of heaven and earth is limited. If he bes the chosen one of fate, my chance at rebirth will vanish! It seems he is the tribtion of my life. Without breaking this tribtion, my path to regaining the pinnacle is impossible!" The youth in the dark violet robe''s face twisted with malice, a surge of anger flooding his heart.

    "Exile Ling?" Suddenly, two voices came from behind.

    Ling Chen turned abruptly, surprised to see the astonished Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai.

    "It''s you two?" He swept a cold nce at them.

    "Exile Ling, did you just traverse the void with your physical body?" Qin Cheng asked, stunned.

    "A minor trick," Ling Chen looked down upon these two weaklings, speaking indifferently, "Inscription Cultivators and devils working together led to some mishaps. I came out first to continue searching for the core of the Heavenly Land. Since you''ve escaped, follow me and serve as my assistants."

    Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai exchanged nces and quickly nodded. "Yes!"

    They were extremely respectful! But the moment they lowered their heads, they exchanged a covert nce, their eyes brimming with furious resentment!

    "He''s very weak!"

    "He''s pretending!"

    From Ling Chen''s pale face, they could tell! Even at this moment, this so-called Exiled Sword Immortal was still bossing them around! The scene in the cave earlier surged back into their minds! The two women, caught in their disgrace, had turned the me around on them! How could they bear it? Up to this moment, their hearts were cut to pieces.

    "Heaven has delivered this beast right into our hands..."

    Years of shared misery had forged their unspoken understanding.

    "Kill!!"

    Frustration and anger, like boiling water, surged to their brains!

    The two middle-aged Sword Cultivators, at the Perfect Fate Ocean Realm, while bowing in feigned respect, suddenly erupted in an attack, their swords aiming for Ling Chen right before them!

    "Hmm?" Ling Chen''s face changed drastically. "You dare challenge the heavens..."

    In a rush, he swept his sword across the void! Space twisted before him as his nine-colored Sword Soul collided with Qin Cheng''s sword, erupting in a thunderous st!

    Even if Ling Chen''s swordsmanship was only a minuscule fraction of what it was in his past life, it was still more exquisite than Qin Cheng''s. But... his sacred power truly paled inparison to Qin Cheng''s! Such a close-range, full-force attack from someone in the Perfect Fate Ocean Realm was difficult to block, not just for Ling Chen, but even for Yun Xiao!

    <em>KLANG! </em>Qin Cheng''s sword plunged into the spatial vortex, still grazing the nine-colored Sword Soul, piercing Ling Chen''s palm and spilling blood! He vividly remembered, it was this very hand that had roamed over Ku Qinglian''s body!

    "I''ll destroy your vile hand!" Qin Cheng violently twisted his sword, and in a sh, his Sword Soul sliced through Ling Chen''s palm, sending five fingers flying!

    "AGHHHH!" Ling Chen screamed in agony, his face turning ashen.

    He never dreamed that he, the reincarnation of the mighty Divine Sky Sword Emperor, would be reduced to such a statehis right hand''s fingers severed by a pathetic man in a fit of rage!

    How was he to wield a sword now?

    In the next instant, Sun Yuanhai''s sword thrust towards his Dantian!

    Clearly, this was an attempt to cripple Ling Chenpletely!

    In agonized screams, dripping with sweat, Ling Chen recoiled, warping the space in front of him to suppress Sun Yuanhai''s sword!

    "Die!" Sun Yuanhai roared furiously, never in his life had he been so valiant!

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>His sword, though missing Ling Chen''s Dantian, pierced through that symbol of sin, going right through Ling Chen''s backside.

    Astonishingly, an egg-shaped object hung on the Sword Soul!

    "GAHHHHHHH!" Ling Chen''s face turned purple in an instant, letting out a heart-wrenching scream!

    "You dare toy with my woman? This is karma, understand?!" Sun Yuanhai sneered, decades of pent-up resentment erupting.

    Seeing Ling Chen''s shocked and agonized expression, he and Qin Cheng finally felt a tingling thrill of satisfaction!

    With this sword strike, even if it meant death, it would be worth it!

    Who could walk by the river and not get their feet wet?

    In his past life, Ling Chen coveted his brother''s partner, and in this life, he hadn''t learned his lesson. Even the most spineless man couldn''t tolerate such humiliation!

    Sadly, Ling Chen never really saw these insignificant men as worthy of attention. He outwardly respected all his elders, but his heart was filled with contempt. These two middle-aged men, having lost everything, used their swords at this moment to teach Ling Chen a lesson!

    The excruciating pain in his palm and lower body finally woke Ling Chen from his dreamlike state!

    This agony reminded him that he was no longer the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, just a mortal with great talent. No matter how many life-saving tricks he had, overlooking the boundaries of human nature would inevitably lead to his downfall one day!

    <em>CRASH! </em>He rolled onto the ground, his eyes wide, shrinking into a purple shrimp!

    The mighty Divine Sky Sword Emperor of his previous life, now castrated, a fate more tragic than before! What was hardest to ept was that this was just a world that seemed as insignificant as dust to him...

    "Die!"

    "Go to hell, Exiled Sword Immortal! You''re why everyone''s gone mad!"

    "You deserve death the most!"

    Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai, like crazed demons, attacked again, this time aiming for Ling Chen''s heart and head!

    And Ling Chen, amidst the intense pain, his bloodshot eyes still trembling, said, "This mortal world is more perilous than I imagined..."

    To be suppressed by a freak was one thing! Even two pathetic fools managed to defeat him! This made him question his entire existence!

    Still, Ling Chen was, after all, the reincarnation of a true Immortal. Amidst this pain, he managed to calm his mind. "I have no choice but to use the trump card I reserved for Yun Xiao to save my life, sigh..."

    He was so frustrated he felt like spitting blood!

    As the twin swords approached, Ling Chen suddenly produced a white bone mirrorthe Heavenly Mirror he''d prepared for a lethal strike against Yun Xiao!

    The moment the Heavenly Mirror appeared, Ling Chen roared, activating its power!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The mirror erupted in a zing light, instantly vaporizing Qin Cheng and Sun Yuanhai into dust.

    The next instant, the Heavenly Mirror itself exploded, turning into ashes and forever bing part of the history of the Nine Hells!

    After releasing this strike, Ling Chen''s face turned even paler! Hey back on the wild ground, his eyes in disarray.

    "Why is this mortal world so difficult?"

    It all came back to Yun Xiao. Without him, Ling Chen should have been unmatched All his fury still focused on Yun Xiao! Looking at his fingerless right hand, his hatred deepened.

    Touching his lower body with his left hand, he grimaced in pain and muttered in frustration, "Well shit from now until I be an Immortal and regain the ability to regenerate flesh and blood, I must live a life of purity..."

    He struggled to his feet, looking towards the cave where the battle seemed to be ending. This meant the Inscription Cultivators and devils must have won! And he had lost miserably!

    "Huh?" Ling Chen suddenly noticed, across the dark expanse ofnd, countless demons like a dark cloud were moving towards the cave.

    Many were even around him! These demons turned their heads, looking at him with strange eyes.

    "Neutered!" A little fox ran past him, yfully insulting him.

    "..." Ling Chen''s face instantly darkened.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 305: Slay the Invaders, Defend Our Homeland!

    Chapter 305: y the Invaders, Defend Our Homnd!

    After a tumultuous battle, the once tranquil cave had crumbled into ruins. In the depths of the valley, treesy shattered, wildfires raged, and thend was scarred with pits and cracks, presenting a scene of utter devastation.

    Nearly all the surrounding mountains had been leveled, their surfaces scarred with the remnants of sword strikes and the destructive marks of daoist spells.

    "The Lion Duke has returned!"

    "And Supreme Adjudicator Gongyang too"

    As the fight ceased, a group of devils and Inscription Cultivators gathered, turning their eyes northward.

    Four figures approached through the night, materializing before their eyes.

    All gazes immediately fixed on the object in Gongyang Sheng''s grasptwo severed heads, their long hair disheveled, soaked in blood, their features indiscernible...

    Yet everyone, humans and devils alike, knew these to be the heads of Ku Qinglian and Feng Xuxu, two women of exceptional talent and beauty, now fallen victims to the ruthless strife of the Immortal path.

    They fought two against four and perished, a reasonable oue under the circumstances. Yet, it was clear that Gongyang Sheng and the two elder devils bore sword wounds, especially Gongyang Sheng, who had a piercing sword cut near his Dantian. He had been applying external and internal medicines to stop the bleeding and suppress the icy sword energy within, but hisplexion remained unnaturally pale.

    "You failed to catch Exile Ling?" The War Princess frowned in dissatisfaction.

    "He used some crafty tricks. Drew a circle in the void and just vanished into thin air," the Lion Duke grumbled.

    "He escaped?"

    The group of Inscription Cultivators felt like they had been doused in cold water. They knew that even if they killed every Sword Cultivator, without the heads of the two Exiled Sword Immortals, their own survival was uncertain.

    "It''s fine. All of Ling Chen''s supporters are dead. He''s alone now and will soon meet his end," they consoled themselves.

    "Have all the other Sword Cultivators here been dealt with?" the Lion Duke asked gravely.

    "Yes!" The crowd parted to reveal a pile of over twenty heads behind them, each set of eyes wide open in death, unwilling to close.

    These Sword Cultivators had perished here, decimating the middle-aged and younger generations of the Sword Ruins'' prominent families like the Ku, Feng, Yun, Shuang, and Sikong. What remained now were mostly Dao Heart Realm cultivators, aside from a few old ancestors.

    "How are our losses?" Gongyang Sheng asked.

    The Sword Cultivators fought to the death in a counterattack, causing some casualties. A few died, and the rest suffered minor injuries, an Inscription Cultivator reported.

    This was the toll on the Inscription Cultivators'' side. The devils, however, remained silent, seemingly having suffered fewer losses.

    "Three times our number, and we still lost a few?" Gongyang Sheng nced at the Lion Duke, understanding all too well. These devils had likely prioritized their own survival, not fighting with full force.

    Even so, Gongyang Sheng couldnt do much about it. After all, the devils werent exactly known for their nobility or self-sacrifice!

    "What''s our next move, Lion Duke?" Gongyang Sheng asked gravely.

    "The two Exiled Sword Immortals are down to one with any real power. We can head straight to the entrance of the Eternal Sword Prison, locate their stronghold, gauge their strength, and wipe them out in one fell swoop! We might also intercept Exile Ling before he can flee back to the Sword Ruins," the Lion Duke proposed.

    No objections came from either the devils or the Inscription Cultivators.

    After all, capturing Ku Qinglian and her ilk, those dogs of Ling Chen, made their alliance''s chances of victory all the more promising!

    Huh?

    Just then, their brows furrowed as they surveyed their surroundings.

    Between the mountains and valleys, countless demons emerged! Transforming into their true forms, their crimson eyes ring, they almost formed a sea of darkness, having sealed off the surroundings.

    In truth, these Inscription Cultivators and devils had noticed the stir among the demons of the Demon Continent earlier, but these lesser demons, to them, were as weak as tofu and not worth their attention.

    But now, not only was the ground swarming with demons, but the skies were also filled with countless winged demons, merging into a massive, dark cloud that engulfed both the devils and the Inscription Cultivators!

    Looking around, the area was surrounded by fierce demons, droves upon droves, easily numbering in the tens of millions.

    And whats more, they all possessed at least the strength of the Demon Meridian Realm!

    "Have these beasts lost their minds?" the Lion Duke eximed incredulously.

    "They probably have no concept of the Fate Ocean Realm," Gongyang Sheng said coldly.

    "Let alone the Fate Ocean Realm, these wretched creatures probably dont even grasp the Dao Heart Realm. What gave them the gall to act so boldly above us?"

    To them, this situation was almostical, like being surrounded by a bunch of mice.

    Seems like they want to take advantage of our post-battle weakness and wipe us out in one go?

    Hahaha

    Both the devils and the Inscription Cultivators couldnt help butugh.

    The path to immortality is a long, unendingdder. Its indeed amusing to see these frogs in the well and mice with short sight."

    "Just a single daoist spell to scare them off, crush a few thousand corpses, and theyll know its time to run. Speaking, one of the Inscription Cultivators conjured up his Life Sigl, summoning a 300-meter-long violet thunderbolt that fiercely struck the sky!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The lightning thundered across, instantly sting thousands of demons into smithereens, raining blood from the heavens!

    Yet, to their astonishment, this did not intimidate the horde. Instead, the demons roared and howled with even greater fury, their eyes aze with wrath, not a hint of fear in sight.

    They seemed to have found a cause to rally behind!

    "What''s going on here?" The Inscription Cultivator who hadunched the attack was dumbfounded. How did this not scare off these beasts?

    Before he could finish his thought, a white figure suddenly appeared before him!

    "Who''s this?!" He barely got the words out when the silver-haired youth struck his forehead with a palm.

    <em>POOF! </em>The Inscription Cultivator''s head exploded on impact! Dead without a scream.

    The white shadow shed past, soaring into the clouds.

    "What was that?" A chill ran down the spines of the Lion Duke, Gongyang Sheng, and others.

    Someone had casually strolled into their midst, effortlessly killed a Late Fate Ocean Realm Inscription Cultivator, and vanished in a blink. To pull this off, one had to be at least at the Establishment Fate Ocean Realm!

    Shock filled their hearts as dozens of them looked up at the silver-haired figure amidst the roaring demons.

    There, amidst the howling demons, stood a silver-haired being, hovering in the air. His long robe billowing, his features devilishly androgynous. The fluffy fox ears and four long, robust fox tails revealed his demonic nature!

    "How can there be such a powerful demon in this forsaken ce?"

    All the Inscription Cultivators and devils changed color.

    With only two entrances to the Devil Continent, neither the Endless Netherworld nor the Eternal Sword Prison would allow demons from the Nine Hells to enter!

    "It''s alright" the Lion Duke reassured everyone, then addressed the silver fox demon youth, "Never did we imagine that the Demon Continent harbored such a young and formidable top-tier demon like yourself. Our apologies for the oversight! It seems we have some misunderstandings. Could we perhapsy down arms and discuss this further?"

    Sensing something amiss, he set aside his contempt and proceeded with caution.

    "You foreign devils, arrogant and cruel, tantly invading our homnd and ughtering our kin. Your crimes are unforgivable, and there''s no room for negotiation. Only with your blood can we avenge our brethren and deter those behind you, driving you out for good!"

    The youth''s voice was cold, not loud, but enough to drive the 70 million demon army into a frenzy.

    "A mere beast, so brazen?" Gongyang Sheng cast a cold nce at the fox, then whispered to the Lion Duke, "This demon is somewhat peculiar. With the world changing so drastically, if this demon possesses exceptional talent and joins forces with the demons of the Nine Hells, it could spell disaster. Why not seize this opportunity to eliminate him?"

    "Good point!" The Lion Duke nodded, though his eyes still flickered with uncertainty.

    At that moment, in full view of the demon army, the fox tore apart the corpse of the fallen Inscription Cultivator!

    <em>SPLATTER! </em>Blood and flesh rained down, inciting the millions of demons into a frenzy, their battle spirit soaring to new heights.

    "Emperor, just how powerful are these opponents?" the Saint Ape asked from behind, his brow furrowed, a trace of unease in his voice.

    "I can kill one in an instant, what do you think?" Moon Fairy sneered coldly. "Don''t worry! Our 70 million brothers are more than enough to tear them to shreds."

    "Yes!" Although the Burning Saint didn''t fully grasp the strength of these people from the Nine Hells, he trusted Moon Fairy.

    "After we deal with them and take their treasures, I will lead our brothers in a counterattack against the Divine Continent, exterminate the human race, and dominate the world!" Moon Fairy dered menacingly.

    Hearing this, the multitude of fierce demons, their resentment from the battle in the heavens erupting, grew even more ferocious, eager to invade the Divine Continent, destroy the heavens, and drench the world in blood.

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!" Even with the demise of the five great Demon Emperors, these millions of demons, the true force of the Demon Continent, had never abandoned their ambition to invade and avenge themselves against the human race.

    The Demon Emperors may die, but their spirit endured!

    Before the demon horde, Moon Fairy suddenly transformed into a Four-Tailed Demon Fox! Shrouded in an illusory haze, now a mythical demon of legend, his demonic aura alone was enough to incite millions of fierce demons into a frenzy.

    "Annihte the foreign races, reim ournds!" Under Moon Fairy''s roar, the world trembled, and the gathered demon army, carrying a sacred mission, forgot life and death, and charged towards the Inscription Cultivators and devils!

    "They''re reallying?" The Lion Duke and Gongyang Sheng, among others, felt a sense of absurdity.

    The brutality of these demons also ignited their rage.

    The human and the devil exchanged a nce.

    "No choice, fight our way out?" Gongyang Sheng suggested.

    "Yes! But the best strategy is to cut off the head of the snake. I''ll locate that fox," the Lion Duke dered coldly.

    "Much appreciated, Lion Duke!"

    All hailing from the Nine Hells, their spirits were naturally far more exalted!

    Just the Eternal Sword Prison was ten times the size of the Divine Continent, so they had certainly seen their share of the world. An army of 70 million demons might sound like a lot, but in terms of power, it was like slicing through tofu for them!

    Tiring, yes, but hardly deadly!

    "Let''s band together and break out!"

    Faced with the onught of the demon army, their response was swift. Before the myriad demon magics could descend, nearly a hundred devils and Inscription Cultivators gathered together!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Life Sigils expanded immensely, forming a massive hemispherical shield, safeguarding every man and devil within!

    This shield was also a meat grinder!

    Adorned with countless inscriptions, it generated storms of wind, fire, water, and earth. The power of these Fate Ocean Realm sigils easily neutralized the demon magics.

    Any demon that dared collide with it was instantly ground into blood and dust!

    <em>BANG BANG BANG! </em>Wherever the shield went, it was like a merciless meat grinder, with countless demons perishing instantly, rivers of blood flowing in moments. But the demons in the rear, unable to see the carnage at the front, continued to charge forward relentlessly!

    "We defend, you attack!" Gongyang Sheng told the surrounding devils.

    "No problem!"

    And so, using the sigils as a shield and blood arts as a spear, they formed a moving sphere of blood across the Demon Continent, leaving a trail of blood and bodies in their wake!

    From the outset, they taught these demons the true terror of the Fate Ocean Realm!

    "Kill! Kill!"

    However, the strongest trait in these low-intelligence, savage demons was theirck of fear towards death. They continued to hurl their bodies forward, depleting the enemy''s stamina and sacred power!

    "Too weak."

    "The bodies of these demons are as soft as tofu. Do they really think they can overwhelm us with mere numbers?"

    "This fold world is indeed too barren. Without the power of destion, the demon race struggles to thrive."

    At this moment, both the devils and Inscription Cultivators were quite at ease. They moved while casually chatting and smiling, as if strolling through a marketce, effortlessly crushing groups of ants.

    The demon army marched to their deaths, dying en masse!

    "Didn''t our Emperor say these foreign races were nothing special?"

    Within the demon horde, the Ape Saint watched the massive sacrifice of the demons, his heart bleeding, eyes zing red.

    As a Demon Saint Realm being, experiencing the terror of these opponents up close was a whole different ordeal! He was certain that even if he were to crash into one of these Life Sigils, he''d be vaporized instantly!

    "Moon Fairy" The Ape Saint''s heart trembled as he searched for his position.

    Just then, from the heavens above, a silver streak of light suddenly descended, shining brilliantly, like a meteor falling from the sky!

    In an instant, it was like a heavenly sword, violently striking the hemispherical shield made of Life Sigils!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The spherical shield burst apart, turning into flying sigils!

    The nearly hundred devils and Inscription Cultivators were blown away, scattering like droplets of water.

    The silver light hit the ground, causing the earth to split open with hundreds of web-like cracks, rocks exploding into dust and flying into the sky, the battlefield within a hundred miles trembling and shaking!

    Under this shocking scene, the tens of millions of demons, just starting to feel a bit of fear, roared into madness once again, their murderous intent skyrocketing!

    Seizing this opportunity, they chanted the name of Moon Fairy and moved like a torrent rushing towards the Inscription Cultivators and devils,pletely isting them.

    Every devil and Inscription Cultivator was instantly engulfed in a vast sea of demons, being swept in all directions!

 Chapter 306: Look Around, Yun Xiao is Everywhere!

    Chapter 306: Look Around, Yun Xiao is Everywhere!

    "Damn it!"

    "You beasts, do you really have no fear of death?"

    These mighty beings at the Fate Ocean Realm were thoroughly enraged! With their battle formation destroyed, they were forced into a desperate fight!

    The Inscription Cultivators turned their Life Sigils into smaller shields. Any approaching demon died instantly! A single daoist spell, and thousands of demons were pulverized to dust!

    These Inscription Cultivators demonstrated the terrifying area-of-effect offensive power of their cultivation system!

    "Die!"

    Across the dark and tumultuous sea of demons, about ny orbs of light emerged. Each orb harbored a Fate Ocean Realm powerhouse, a veteran of countless brutal encounters!

    So far, it was a one-sided massacre!

    However, as each Inscription Cultivator and devil witnessed these vicious demons showing no fear, a shadow of doubt slowly crept over their hearts.

    Having just annihted the Sword Cultivators, they were already exhausted and injured!

    "If this keeps up, we might just drop dead from exhaustion..."

    This was an unbearable thought for them! To be worn down to death by a bunch of rats, how humiliating was that!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!</em>

    The gruesome fight raged on.

    Whenever doubt flickered in the minds of the demons, Moon Fairy would appear just in time, seizing the life of an Inscription Cultivator. A swarm of demons would then descend, tearing and feasting on them, leaving not even a bone behind!

    On the edge of hope and despair, the demon army fought desperately for their lives.

    With each death on their side, the remaining devils and Inscription Cultivators felt the shadows in their hearts grow darker.

    Looking across the battlefield, mountains of demon corpses piled up! Beneath their feet, the filthy blood of the demons had already reached more than a foot deep!

    Such a scene had the Inscription Cultivators and devils fighting weakly, already struck with terror.

    "What''s happening..." Even a figure like the Lion Duke was now in a stupor amidst the demon horde. "Why does that fox only kill Inscription Cultivators and not our kind?" He furrowed his brows deeply.

    <em>HUM! </em>Suddenly, the silver-white, Four-Tailed Demon Fox appeared right before his eyes!

    Demon and devil, eyes locked in a stare-down.

    "I want to coborate with you," Moon Fairy said, his voice cool as the grave.

    "How so?" the Lion Duke inquired.

    "I''ll let you go, and in return, you give me a way to the Primeval Demon Hell," Moon Fairy proposed.

    "You''re trying to befriend me?" The Lion Duke''s eyebrow arched.

    "Be my friend, and you''ll have to forsake those Inscription Cultivators," Moon Fairy said with a cold smirk.

    "Well, Inscription Cultivators aren''t exactly saints," the Lion Duke chuckled.

    Hearing this, Moon Fairyughed. "Alright then, here''s to a fruitful coboration," he dered.

    Even a fool could tell that the alliance between demons and Inscription Cultivators was flimsy at best!

    Moon Fairy''s conversation with the Lion Duke had two purposesfirst, to find a legitimate way to the Primeval Demon Hell; second, because Yun Xiao had promised the War Princess to spare the devils as long as they posed no threat to him, until the War Princess gained enough power to approach ruling the Endless Netherworld and serve Yun Xiao.

    These were potential allies; Yun Xiao really didn''t need to fight them to the death.

    "You can start retreating while fighting," Moon Fairy instructed. He would only order the demons attacking the devils to go easy, focusing on annihting the Inscription Cultivators.

    "Quite generous!" The Lion Duke looked deeply at Moon Fairy, realizing his extraordinary nature.

    "Lion Duke," Moon Fairy called out, ncing back at him as he left, "I have nomon ground with humans, but no quarrel with your kind. Keep your promise when we head to the Primeval Demon Hell. I despise those who break their word. Don''t dig your own graves."

    "Don''t worry!" The Lion Duke nodded. He was utterly shocked by that one strike that shattered thebined Life Sigil shield.

    "This young demon''s power could well surpass that of an Exiled Sword Immortal!"

    Such a being, the Lion Duke couldn''t kill for now and dared not offend further.

    The demon and devil''s brief encounter drastically altered the course of the entire battlefield.

    The devils, numb from the endless fighting, suddenly noticed fewer demons around them. But for the Inscription Cultivators, their numbers had multiplied,pletely trapped!

    "Come to me! Form up and break out!" The Lion Duke appeared in the center of the battlefield, shielding the War Princess, roaring with a voice like a lion''s roar.

    "The Lion Duke is over there!"

    "Quick, get over here!"

    In such dire straits, the devils knew the importance of sticking together.

    The demons and Inscription Cultivators were fundamentally different!

    The Inscription Cultivators boasted powerful Life Sigils and daoist spells, but their flesh was often frail. Devils, on the other hand, cultivated their flesh and magic, excelling in closebat and having superior mobility on the battlefield.

    Thanks to Moon Fairy''s leniency, they managed to gather around the Lion Duke!

    In contrast, the Inscription Cultivators were left in the dark, seeing nothing but blood and corpses!

    "Let''s go!" The Lion Duke took the lead, charging eastward.

    "Aren''t we waiting for the Inscription Cultivators?"

    "Wait for what? Move if you don''t want to die!" the Lion Duke roared.

    Except for Yun Xiao, who had the Heavenly Dao Sariras, none of them were cut out for an endless battle of attrition.

    And so, the group of devils, led by the Lion Duke, fought their way out of the encirclement and fled.

    "Lion Duke!" Amidst the horde of demons, Gongyang Sheng suddenly spotted them, his face red as he yelled, "Wait for us!"

    "Sorry, we can''t hold out any longer! In dire times, even spouses part ways, let alone us. You''re on your own now!" the Lion Duke bellowed. After shouting, he urgently told those around him, "Hurry back to the entrance of the Endless Netherworld, seal the passage, don''t let a single Inscription Cultivator back in!"

    "Why?"

    "The Inscription Cultivators are cunning and conniving! Who knows how the Cmity Seal Purgatory will try and turn this situation on us? After all, back when we were fighting the Sword Cultivators, it was clear we allowed them to suffer unnecessary casualties. Anyway, they died at the ws of that terrifying demon fox, nothing to do with us."

    With that, the devils broke through the demon horde, escaping in disarray. Finally free, they looked back to see a vast, dark red ocean behind them.

    "Damn! Even the weakest creatures can be terrifying inrge, fearless numbers!"

    "A few million is nothing; the key is that demon fox, capable of turning the tide!"

    "Move on, stop staring."

    The devils quickly left, while behind them, the battlefield, a veritable mountain of corpses and sea of blood, raged on.

    "Can you hear my voice?"

    "Come to me!"

    Gongyang Sheng, drenched in blood, howled desperately, surrounded by a dense horde of ferocious demons! At first, some responded, moving towards him, but no one ever really reached his side. Towards the end, there wasn''t even a response anymore!

    Gongyang Sheng was in utter panic. He felt like he was being crushed in the deep sea, unable to breathe.

    Several times, he almost broke free, but each time, that silver fox demon appeared, beating him back into the sea of demons, trapping him, a Supreme Adjudicator of the Fate Ocean Realm, to die in this ce!

    "Is anyone there?" Gongyang Sheng once again broke through the encirclement; looking around, the world was drenched in the blood of demons! Where were the Inscription Cultivators?

    <em>SWOOSH! SWOOSH! </em>At that moment, it seemed like all the demons were staring at him! He was the only one left!

    "Uh..." Gongyang Sheng felt as if he had been struck by lightning.

    All the Sword Cultivators under Ling Chen''smand were gone! The Inscription Cultivators led by Fu Longxiang were also dead, leaving only him! Why did this happen? He couldn''t understand. Some mastermind, seemingly absent from the scene, had orchestrated all these events.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The silver demon fox appeared again before Gongyang Sheng, like a ghost. Its eyes burned like fierce fire, staring intensely at Gongyang Sheng, with a ferocious voice, "Invader, you dared to kill over 50 million of my kin..."

    To these demons of the Demon Continent, these Peak Master and Supreme Adjudicator level Fate Ocean Realm cultivators, were indeed incredibly strong! Over 50 million demons sacrificed their lives, and with Moon Fairy''s final blow, they had finally devoured them!

    Now, the Inscription Cultivators were all gone!

    However, the remaining demons, also bewildered and suffering, dully followed Moon Fairy, not understanding what they had done.

    "You..." Gongyang Sheng, drenched in blood, stared deathly at Moon Fairy.

    "Meet your end!" Facing this exhausted old man, Moon Fairy, under the watchful eyes of the demon horde, fought a bloody battle with him and ultimately bit off his head!

    The demon horde tore Gongyang Sheng apart and devoured him alive!

    "This is the fate of those who dare invade our homnd!" Moon Fairy spat out Gongyang Sheng''s head, addressing the remnants of the battered demon army.

    The demon troops, standing atop a mountain of theirrades'' corpses, let out a few cheers, but their voices were somber.

    "Emperor..." The Burning Saint approached, trembling, "With such heavy losses, do we still counterattack the Divine Continent?"

    Moon Fairy sighed. "The strength of the enemy was beyond my expectations. For now, everyone must rest and recuperate. But worry not, I will first go and behead the human strongholds."

    "That''s great!" The Burning Saint paused, "With you growing stronger, as long as you are with us, we will one day dominate both continents."

    "Ha ha ha..." The Ape Saint suddenly burst intoughter.

    "What are youughing at?" Moon Fairy turned to him, smiling gently.

    "Moon Fairy, your aim today was not just to annihte the Inscription Cultivators but also to end the millennia-old legacy of our demon race!" Ape Saint''s eyes turned blood-red, and tears streamed down its face.

    "Don''t talk nonsense! Those invaders were too strong; we had to make sacrifices to eradicate them, or we''d face endless troubles! How can you me him so recklessly?" the Burning Saint spoke anxiously.

    "The Ape Saint is right. I do intend to wipe out the demon race," Moon Fairy suddenly said.

    "Eh." Burning Saint was struck as if by lightning, staring dumbfounded at Moon Fairy.

    "Why?" The Ape Saint''s heart was breaking, looking at him in agony.

    "Why indeed? Aren''t we all demons..." the Burning Saint said tremulously.

    "I am not a demon; I am Yun Xiao." Moon Fairy fixed his gaze on them, "The demons'' desire to destroy me never ceases. I must eventually leave this ce, and I can''t allow the human descendants to live under the tyranny of the demons forever."

    The Ape Saint and Burning Saint widened their eyes, their faces contorted as if struck by lightning.

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! </em>Moon Fairy''s fox tails shot out, extinguishing thest two great Demon Saints of the demon race.

    How could he forget the night when a million souls of the Martial Realm perished, their spirits lost?

    "The Demon Continent is the shadow of the Divine Continent. It is destined to disappear; your existence has no meaning."

    With these words, Moon Fairy stepped out of thisnd of shadows.

    Outside, the remaining demon troops still revered him as their faith.

    In the distance, on a solitary peak, Ling Chen stood in the shadows, his gaze deep as he watched the grand battle between humans, devils, and demons.

    The fall of Sword Cultivators, the escape of devils, the annihtion of the Inscription Cultivators, the demise of the demon army... he saw it all.

    "Each force''s arrival was too coincidental. And that fox, it couldn''t possibly be born in such a world..." He frowned deeply. From this vantage point, it almost seemed like someone was orchestrating everything. Killing several birds with one stone? Well, he felt like one of those birds that got hit.

    "The Heavenly Land" Ling Chen gripped the nine-colored Sword Soul in his left hand, stabbing it into a violet crystal at his feet!

    Even a legendary sword like this was unable to pierce this crystal! How could that be? After being reborn, too many strange things had happened.

    As Ling Chen recalled these events, his expression grew more distorted. Suddenly, a chill ran down his spine.

    "Who?!" He turned abruptly, only to see a smiling young man in white emerging from the darkness.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 307: You Think Youre Worthy?

    Chapter 307: You Think You''re Worthy?

    Brother Yun. Ling Chen instinctively bowed his head at the sight of the young man in white. His heart felt as if it was locked in ice.

    What did you call me? Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    Ling Chen, hiding his right hand that had lost five fingers, replied without a change in his demeanor, Sword ve Ling Chen, greets his master.

    In his most downtrodden moment, he encountered the very person he least wished to meet. How could his heart not be in turmoil? Moreover, had Yun Xiao always known his whereabouts? If so, that spelled big trouble.

    Concealing the turmoil in his heart, Ling Chen forced a smile and said to Yun Xiao, As per your instructions, I have gathered evidence of the Withered Bone Keeper secretly using the Heavenly Mirror. Now that most of the Ku Family''s forces have been in by devils and Inscription Cultivators, with my testimony, you can return to the Sword Ruins to seek justice. He suppressed his boundless frustration and anger.

    Word is you brought the Heavenly Mirror here, and now that the Ku Family''s forces are dead, where is the mirror? Yun Xiao extended his hand.

    Ling Chens expression darkened upon hearing this.

    Just now, I was ambushed by two Sword Cultivators from the Ku Family. In desperation, I had to use the power of the Heavenly Mirror to protect myself Ling Chen could only reveal his right hand, which was now just a bare wrist, the palm having been blown to pieces.

    Is it because you yed around with other people''s wives again? Yun Xiao asked with a faint smile. For a reincarnated true Immortal, you have such unique tastes.

    Ling Chen coldly raised his head, his eyes filled with a hint of frost. I''ve made a fool out of myself in front of you he muttered.

    Haha. Yun Xiao suddenlyughed, pointing at Ling Chen''s lower abdomen, What''s with all the blood there? Don''t tell me you lost your manhood? Wow, karma''s a real bitch, huh?

    "..." Ling Chen clenched his only remaining fist beneath his sleeve. He understood. It was clear Yun Xiao knew everything! Each remark was further rubbing salt in the wound!

    Ling Chen forced a sheepish smile, It just so happens Im now purged of earthly desires, ready to devoutly follow the master on his heavenly path.

    Is that so?

    Such humiliation, yet Ling Chen bore it, surprising Yun Xiao. He took a few steps forward, standing beside Ling Chen in the wind, gazing at the battlefield strewn with corpses and blood.

    After a while, he said coldly to Ling Chen, Hand over the Cmity Seal Sword.

    Ling Chens frown deepened, and he replied softly, The sword is not with me.

    Oh? Yun Xiao reached out, and from a nearby icy pond, with a buzz, a wooden sword flew out,nding in Yun Xiaos hand.

    Ling Chen''s face twisted momentarily!

    The wooden sword, unbearably heavy in others'' hands, seemed as light as a feather in Yun Xiao''s. He flicked the sword casually, smiling at Ling Chen.

    "It''s not in your hands, but hidden in the pond. Does that mean it wanted to be concealed until you recovered enough to monopolize it?" Yun Xiao inquired, looking straight into his eyes.

    Ling Chen stepped back, took a deep breath, and said, "Your control over it means you killed Fu Longxiang. You framed me and the Ku Family Sword Cultivators, and with the Inscription Cultivators, you eliminated them effortlessly."

    "You missed a detail," Yun Xiao replied, gazing into the distance. "The Divine Continent is my homnd, and demons are a perpetual scourge. I also used the Inscription Cultivators to decimate the demon army."

    The demons were a legion; for Yun Xiao to y them alone would be too arduous. He yed it smart.

    "Master!" Ling Chen bowed deeply. "I''ve publicly be your sword ve and am willing to serve you for life. Why do you still need to scheme against me?"

    "Have you lied to yourself so much that you started believing it?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    Ling Chen shook his head. "I indeed had my reservations, which is why I coveted the Cmity Seal Sword. But now, I am utterly convinced by you!"

    At this point, he looked up at Yun Xiao and dered earnestly, "From now on, I harbor no ill thoughts. Should I betray this, may I be struck down by heaven and earth."

    "You''re only afraid of death now. If you weren''t in mortal peril, you wouldn''t speak like this," Yun Xiao observed, his hair fluttering in the wind.

    "It''s true," Ling Chen said with a wry smile. "In my past life, I never encountered a being like you... When I was first reborn, I couldn''t believe someone in this world could surpass me. Now, I do! You''re not a cmity of this life, but the noblest person I''ve ever met."

    Yun Xiao nced at him, surprised, then smiled, "Wow, you''re good. I''m actually starting to believe you."

    Ling Chen''s eyes reddened with joy, about to kneel before Yun Xiao. "I swear to the heavens I will wholly and fully devote this second life of mine to you.."

    However, before he could finish, Yun Xiao raised his hand, preventing him from kneeling. "Sorry, it''s already toote."

    "Why? In my previous life, I was a great Cosmic Immortal, the supreme Divine Sky Sword Emperor of an Immortal court. I''m still not worthy enough to follow you?" Ling Chen asked intensely.

    "Indeed, not quite worthy," Yun Xiao stated.

    "You" Ling Chen stared at him intensely. The Divine Sky Sword Emperor, unworthy of even being a follower? Where did this confidencee from?

    Even as he bowed low, the humiliation of this moment was enough to ignite a volcanic eruption in his chest.

    Yun Xiao''s words mercilessly shattered all the confidence Ling Chen had built since his rebirth.

    "You needn''t be angry," Yun Xiao said, calm as a drifting cloud, looking at Ling Chen. "Remember? Right after your rebirth, I saved your life. Without me, this life of yours wouldn''t exist."

    "So what?" Ling Chen''s eyes were bloodshot.

    "I gave you a chance, but you never treasured it. Everything you did was typical of an ungrateful wretch, not once behaving like someone who repays kindness," Yun Xiao said with a slight smile. "I''d have to be a real idiot to let someone like that be my follower, isn''t that right? Just like how you and everyone else thought I was a real idiot for stepping in to save you from Bai Wuque.

    But that''s life. We all make mistakes, me included. The difference is I learn from mine. Ling Chen, stop pretending. From your past life to this one, you''ve always been a self-righteous Immortal scoundrel."

    "Haha," Ling Chen''s gaze turned fierce. "You''re onlymanding the situation because you have the upper hand. If I were suppressing you, I could be the one to judge and evaluate you."

    "That''s why I say we have nothing inmon. It''s better to leave just one of us standing," Yun Xiao dered.

    "You!" Ling Chen''s expression was icy cold. "I have no grudge against you; why can''t you just let me be?"

    "Because you''re a fat sheep, and you owe me a life." Having said that, Yun Xiao casually tossed the Cmity Seal Sword to the ground, then looked at Ling Chen with a chilling gaze, "I''ll give you a fair chance to fight for your dignity."

    "Fine!" At this point, Ling Chen dropped all pretenses. Feigning weakness and humility was suffocating. It was a crushing suppression of his dao heart!

    Atop this mountain summit, Ling Chen''s Dao Heart Realm sacred power surged, and he summoned the nine-colored Sword Soul with his left hand, now his only option for wielding a sword.

    "The Divine Sky Sword Emperor," Yun Xiao said with a lightugh and hands behind his back. "You dont even understand mortals, yet you wish to be reborn as one to cultivate? Did you ever think in your previous life that you''d be reduced to such a sorry state by mere specks of dust?"

    "You think saying that makes a difference?" Ling Chen said coldly.

    "Just a spontaneous remark, to humiliate you," Yun Xiao replied.

    It was a simple insult, yet it was like filth sshed on Ling Chen''s dao heart, staining his newly reformed spirit with dirt. With his Dao Heart clouded, only the desire for murder remained.

    "He is my dao tribtion. By ying him, my million years of waiting may yet bear new hope!" This thought plunged Ling Chen into a state of frenzied madness.

    Clutching the nine-colored Sword Soul in his left hand, he stared at it intently. "You are a divine sword born from the primordial cosmos, imbued with the might of nine worlds. Combined with the 3,000 realms of my Divine Sky Sword Dao, even freshly reborn, what do I have to fear from a devil obstructing my path?"

    The nine-colored Sword Soul, sensing his rage, emitted nine world-shaking roars!

    <em>HUM! </em>The space around them trembled violently, a vast expanse pressing towards Yun Xiao!

    Clearly, Ling Chen was even stronger than during the finals of the Immortal Sword Rankings!

    If it weren''t for Yun Xiao, no one in the Nine Hells could suppress him in the slightest.

    Now, wielding the sword, he was like the world itself, his body seemingly multiplying infinitely. The whole world appeared to be under his control, a flick of his finger stirring heaven and earth!

    "Kill!" With a low growl, Ling Chen let loose the nine-coloured Sword Soul. It twisted the mountain beneath them, pressing down on Yun Xiao with the weight of the entire world!

    Even though Ling Chen was only in the Early Dao Heart Realm, the sacred power he released even surpassed that of Yun Xiao. His Dantian seemed to hover with nine zing suns, their light piercing through, illuminating heaven and earth!

    "Finally, he''s ripe," Yun Xiao''s lips curved slightly.

    If Ling Chen''s rage was like a volcanic eruption, shaking heavens and earth, then Yun Xiao was calm like still water, an ancient well without ripples, using stillness to counter motion.

    "Die!" With one sword strike, the sky and mountains behind Ling Chen were uprooted, converging into the true essence of this world-spanning strike!

    Mountains were elongated and twisted! The world itself appeared to be inverting. This spectacle could terrify anyone, but not Yun Xiao.

    "Interesting." Yun Xiao summoned Heaven Burial between his fingers. Then with a casual flick, he sent it flying out!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The streak of azure light in the air morphed suddenly into a Taiji Yin-Yang fish, swirling and shooting forward, with a trail of ck and white spatial forces behind it!

    <em>Taiji Sword Art, Taiji Flying Fish!</em>

    Just as the Taiji fish reached a third of the way toward Ling Chen, it abruptly changed into a strand of rootless gray grass, tearing open the gates of hell, bringing forth the power of death and merging with the Taiji!

    It was a perfect fusion of Rootless Grass and Taiji Flying Fishtwo grand Flying Sword techniques!

    Ling Chen thought this was terrifying enough. But in the next instant, the space around the Flying Sword twisted, the white clouds above and the mountains below were also distorted, ripped from their ces, converging onto the Flying Sword!

    "Fuck! That''s my Spatial Inverse sh! Ling Chen''s vision darkened, and he couldn''t help but curse.

    Just as he had mustered enough strength to use this sword technique, the opponent immediately integrated his own Palm Sword technique into their Flying Sword technique, creating a greater spatial distortion than his own!

    How was he supposed topete with that?

    Ling Chen didnt even have time to panic!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Carrying the triforce of Taiji, death, and space, along with seven demon magics, the Flying Sword appeared right before Ling Chen.

    <em>KLANG! </em>Ling Chen shed fiercely and managed to strike the Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    Unfortunately, Heaven Burial twisted his nine-colored Sword Soul, scattering it away, while grazing and embedding itself into the back of his left hand!

    As the Heaven Burial Sword Soul passed through, the fingers on his left hand werepletely obliterated, leaving him with yet another bare wrist!

    "GAGH!" Ling Chen screamed in pain, his face turning pale as he staggered back several steps! Even his nine-colored Sword Soul fell to the ground, trembling. He lifted his arm to see... both hands fingerless

 Chapter 308: Wheres the Yellow Turban?

    Chapter 308: Where''s the Yellow Turban?

    With hands beyond repair, Ling Chen''s face twisted like a pretzel. His eyes were a web of bloodshot veins, and with a quivering voice, he red fiercely at Yun Xiao!

    "So, do you believe me now when I say you''re not worthy?" Yun Xiao reimed Heaven Burial, his gaze cold. "If that''s all you''ve got, your rebirth was in vain."

    "Hahaha... Oh, that''s harsh, wickedly harsh! To think such a being exists in this mortal realm, it''s unbelievable!!" Ling Chen''s face was a mask of savagery, hisughter unrestrained and bitter.

    "So, what now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "If I die, you''re going down with me! Corner a man, and you pay the price for your arrogance!" He had given up, but he had also gone mad! He bit his tongue, and droplets of blood fell onto the nine-colored Sword Soul!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Sword Soul vibrated, greedily absorbing his blood, its nine colors gradually engulfed by the crimson tide!

    Suddenly, Ling Chen thrust the Sword Soul into his own Dantian!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Sword Soul crazily absorbed the sacred power of the nine suns within his Dantian. Soon, it would devour all his power, reducing him in an instant to below the Dragon Spring Realm!

    During this process, the Sword Soul continued to grow more bizarre and powerful!

    "Damn, is that going to destroy the Nine Suns Dantian?" Yun Xiao wondered.

    "You think he''s a fool? He''s just unleashing his power to annihte you, nning to rebuild himselfter." Blue Star chuckled.

    That reassured Yun Xiao.

    "Space warp to escape, using the Heavenly Mirror for a final kill, and then fueling this sword with his blood for ast strike, he''s got quite the tricks up his sleeve," Yun Xiao mused joyfully.

    Sadly, Ling Chen had foolishly squandered the first two tricks.

    "After all, he''s the Divine Sky Sword Emperor. Even weakened by rebirth, he''s got more up his sleeve than any random storybook viin," Blue Starmented.

    "Too bad he''s up against our guy!" Red Moon chuckled.

    They were optimistic, but Yun Xiao felt the threat!

    In a short time, the Sword Soul had devoured all of the power in Ling Chen''s Dantian.

    Ling Chen, drenched in blood, his eyes fierce, was as weak as a dying man, but still, he lifted his head, his eyes ripping into Yun Xiao!

    "Yun Xiao, no matter how you defy the heavens, before this ancient Divine Cosmic Sword, you''re but a speck of dust! The cosmic miracles it carries, you can''t even begin to imagine!"

    And with those words, the nine-colored Sword Soul was fully unleashed!

    <em>BOOM! </em>It soared into the heavens, bursting forth with a 10,000 meter high column of blood-red light, illuminating the earth and sky, causing the entire space of the Demon Continent to tremble!

    <em>RUMBLE! </em>This sword suddenly exploded, splitting into nine parts. Each part, amidst the spatial vibrations, gave birth to blood-colored spherical worlds!

    Each of these spherical worlds seemed like a miniature universe, within which stars orbited and seas transformed into mulberry fields.

    "Nine mini-universes, born..." Ling Chen, though copsed on the ground, had eyes zing with insane fervor.

    He gazed obsessively at those nine ancient worlds. Even in their nascent forms, they caused the surrounding space to copse, as if this folded space between the Nine Hells was being sucked into these mini-universes!

    "This sword, can it actually devour the cosmos and space?" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled.

    No wonder the Divine Cosmic Sword Emperor revered it so; this truly was a divine item. Once it devoured, it could truly grow into a real world!

    It might even be muchrger than the Nine Hells, and there were nine of them!

    More crucially, other worlds were just worlds, but the worlds of the Divine Cosmic Sword were weapons, lethal in nature!

    And now, their purpose of existence was to kill Yun Xiao!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Nine blood-colored mini-universe orbs pressed down upon Yun Xiao from above, like nine space behemoths targeting him!

    The surrounding world kept copsing towards them, ripping open voids!

    They were still expanding!

    Yun Xiao stepped back.

    "Die!" Ling Chen seemed to have reached his limit. He didn''t let the Divine Cosmic Sword continue to devour, but instead, he harnessed the divine might of nine cultivation realms sacrificed, mming it towards Yun Xiao!

    "I''m not worthy?" His bloodshot eyes sneered, "Yun Xiao, no matter who you are, the dead are the truly unworthy ones!!"

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao stepped back a few paces, then stopped.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Under Ling Chen''s final exertion of power, the nine blood-colored mini-universes smashed down, unleashing spatial ruptures, strangtion, chaos, and distortion. A blood-colored spatial maelstrom erupted,pletely engulfing Yun Xiao!

    <em>VWHOOOOOM! </em>A blood-colored ck hole, 1,000 meters in diameter, suddenly burst open, swallowing several nearby mountains in an instant, pulling everything within a 500 meter radius into the void, leaving not even dust behind!

    The terror of the Divine Cosmic Sword was fully disyed in its splendid horror!

    And this was just its initial stage!

    "A fully grown Divine Cosmic Sword can devour nine celestial empires, merge them into a world-ending strike, shatter the fabric of time, and obliterate an entire primeval era with a single sh, annihting countless lives! Such a divine weapon, and you think you understand it?" With hisst bit of strength, Ling Chen hovered above the heavens, his eyes wild with suppressed rage, transforming all his anger into a triumphantugh!

    In front of him, the twisted space finally calmed.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A dim nine-colored Sword Soul materialized in the void, trembling a few times, before finally returning to Ling Chen''s side.

    "Worthy indeed of the primeval era''s mythical sword of destruction!" In Ling Chen''s bloodshot eyes, even tears of blood fell. He had won! Nothing remained before him.

    This proved that Yun Xiao had been utterly obliterated!

    "Having in Yun Xiao, my path of rebirth against the heavens now sees me as the yer of gods and annihtor of devils..." Ling Chenughed madly. His blood-red eyes suddenly swept towards the distance.

    There, more than 70 Sword Cultivators of the Fate Ocean Realm were staring nkly in this direction!

    Indeed, it was Mu Daxiong, Du Zhongyuan, and the others!

    They had been present since the two Exiled Sword Immortals had started their battle.

    Ling Chen had noticed them from the beginning!

    Their appearance had been part of the pressure Yun Xiao put on Ling Chen. But now, Ling Chen stood triumphant, his mind still soaring to the heavens despite losing all his power, undoubtedly intimidating this group!

    Mu Daxiong, Du Zhongyuan, and the others all stood pale-faced, staring nkly at the scene.

    The power of Ling Chen''sst strike would have killed them too!

    Who said Ling Exile wasn''t powerful?

    He had always been a force against the heavens!

    "The azure sky is already dead, the yellow sky will soon rise! Only I am the hope of the Sword Ruins. Won''t you kneel in worship?" Despite being utterly drained of strength, Ling Chen showed not a hint of fear. Such was his spirit at that moment!

    "Are you daft? Look behind you! "Mu Daxiong had indeed been trembling with fear but soon, heughed.

    All 70 plus Sword Cultivatorsughed.

    "Behind me..." Ling Chen''s body shuddered violently. His face turned ashen! In that moment, it felt as though the gloom of the entire heavens weighed down upon him. He felt like he was plummeting into an abyss!

    With great difficulty, he turned around. There, just a meter away, stood a young man in white, smiling at him just as he had appeared at first.

    "Am I the azure sky; and you, the yellow sky? Now, that''s a reference." Yun Xiao shrugged and smiled. "Well, where''s your yellow turban? Which Three Kingdoms are warring? Still, I find it funny that the lofty Divine Sky Sword Emperor himself is likening himself to peasants rebelling."

    "Uh..." Ling Chen''s heart shatteredpletely, like ss. Utterly and thoroughly! He reached the pinnacle of despair, tremblingly asking, "Why? Why is this happening?"

    "Are you really that dumb? I''m ten times cooler than you, why wouldn''t I be fine? Of course, I have my own aces too," Yun Xiao said.

    "..." Ling Chen stared at him, his heart crumbling even more. He red at the heavens, "You old thief, are you sick? Making me wait a million years to be reborn, only to set me up in a dead end right from the start?"

    It was absurd! Utterly absurd!

    "Hahaha..." Heughed in despair. His past life and this brief present life, both were ridiculouslyughable. What had be of this world? What twist of fate had entered the game? How could it be this absurd?

    "Damn it! yed me for a fool! Damn you, you thieving heavens!" Ling Chen sighed, a sound rich with sorrow.

    Finally, he cast a longing nce at the nine-colored Sword Soul.

    Suddenly, the tip of the sword turned towards himself.

    <em>STAB! </em>The Sword Soul moved! Ling Chen used it to pierce his own heart.

    "Yun Xiao, I''m taking my own life! I didn''t lose to you..." After uttering these words, he struggled briefly, then his eyes dimmed forever. He was dead. Dead again!

    His few days of rebirth were like a ludicrous dream in a million years of destion. Like a groundhog poking its head out of its burrow, only to be immediately clobbered to death, stars swirling before its eyes.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A copper coffin appeared, swallowing Ling Chen whole. It devoured everythinghis body, Sword Soul, and even the Immortal soul that had traversed a million years. Nothing could escape. And there would be no next rebirth!

    Having dealt with all this, Yun Xiao didn''t rush to reap his rewards. Instead, he approached Mu Daxiong, Du Zhongyuan, and the others.

    This group had witnessed the entire saga from the Sword Baptism Ceremony, seeing Ling Chen being mercilessly beaten step by step by Yun Xiao, unable to turn the tide till the very end.

    Who was the true sovereign of the Heavenly Dao was clear as day.

    <em>THUD! </em>One by one, everyone knelt down, their eyes aze, throats burning, unable even to utter a word.

    After a long while, Mu Daxiong said, "Please give your orders, Exile Yun!"

    "Ling Chen and the scourge of the Ku Family are dead. You are to go to the entrance of the Endless Netherworld and monitor any changes there. Next, I n to take over the Heavenly Land," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Yes!" Mu Daxiong was immensely excited. "Rest assured, we will secure that entrance. Be it devils or Inscription Cultivators, whoeveres will meet their end!"

    "No need for conflict with the devils; just observe and wait for my next instructions," Yun Xiao said.

    "Yes!" They didn''t know why, but they didn''t question.

    This was divine hegemony!

    "Additionally, send someone back to inform the Sword Warden of the deaths of Ling Chen, the Ku Family''s Sword Cultivators, and the Inscription Cultivators. Ask the Sword Warden to set Qingzhan and the Withered Bone Keeper against each other and prepare to and eradicate the Ku Family and theirckeys, purify the Sword Ruins, unify for external conflicts, and prepare for the Nine Hell Conquest sh," Yun Xiao said gravely.

    "Yes!" The group was even more fired up.

    "Move out," Yun Xiaomanded.

    "At yourmand!" The group of 70 plus Sword Cultivators, representing the current strongest force in the Demon Continent, went to monitor the only possible entry point for enemies from the Endless Netherworld.

    This showed Yun Xiao''s absolute dominion in both the Divine and Demon Continents!

    After they left, Yun Xiao smiled. The ancient copper coffin had locked away everything of Ling Chen, and beneath his feet, the Demon Continent was free of interference.

    "Now, it''s time for the harvest." Yun Xiao sat on the ancient copper coffin as if it were a boat, speeding towards the direction of the Divine Continent.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 309: More Trash!

    Chapter 309: More Trash!

    After the decimated demon army dispersed, what remained on the battlefield was a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood. As far as the eye could see, there was nothing but miles of bloodshed.

    The once-mighty demon army of the Demon Continent had been utterly obliterated in this battle, bing a mere footnote in history. In the aftermath, the remaining weak and wounded posed almost no threat to the Divine Continent.

    Countless resentful spirits, mangled corpses, and tainted puddles of blood writhed and wailed under the drive of deep-seated grudges. A sinister wind churned through the valleys, and the stench of blood permeated the sky, lingering for what seemed like an eternity.

    If Forbidden Fate were still around, this ce would''ve been its paradise. The corpses and blood seeped into the earth, even staining the violet crystal-like terrain of the Demon Continent with streaks of red blood.

    Suddenly, the countless pools of blood and corpses seemed toe alive, flowing towards a particr valley.

    At first, the spread of the blood was slow, but as time passed, the flow quickened. Even the blood that had seeped into the ground at the edges of the battlefield was being drawn out, converging towards the valley in the center of the battlefield.

    <em>GURGLE! </em>In that valley, a vast ocean of blood had already formed!

    Vaguely visible in the center of this blood ocean was a slender silhouette.

    Even bathed in the blood mist, one could make out her lithe and fiery figure, her hair cascading like a waterfall, her crimson eyes expressing both sorrow and pleasure. Her body was entwined with blood-red dragons, making her appear both delicate and domineering.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>It was clear that the blood from the entire battlefield was being absorbed by her, refined into the purest essence, and integrated into her Mortal Dust Devil Blood, bing a part of her strength.

    "In the Fate Ocean Realm, the Devil Heart merges with the heart,pletely blending with the devil blood. From then on, the Devil Heart and sacred power fuse into one, in perfect harmony with the powers of heaven and earth." In the dark of the night, her red lips parted slightly, her long eyshes trembling gently.

    "Do I need you to exin when I''m the one cultivating?" a voice emanated from her heart.

    The War Princess hesitated. "Can''t I even think to myself?" She huffed softly, looking down at her body''s automatic cultivation and rapid transformation. This feeling of growing stronger while lying down was truly miraculous.

    Every time she thought about it, it felt strange. Her heart, arteries, and blood vessels spread throughout her body, forming her own cultivation system, yet were not under her own control.

    She could only watch as Yun Xiao used her body topletely absorb the sea of blood that had gathered on the battlefield!

    Surveying the scene, the once blood-soakednd had turned dry and ashen gray.

    All the demon corpses had be desated husks!

    Across the hills and fields, not a speck of red remained.

    "Terrifying..." the War Princess muttered. Even though it was her own body that had wrought this, she still felt a chill in her heart.

    As the true master of this body, she could distinctly feel that after Yun Xiao refined all the demon blood from the battlefield with the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, her cultivation was skyrocketing, breaking through the Fate Ocean Realm in no time!

    And so, this once useless princess had, in mere days, caught up in cultivation to the likes of Fu Longxiang and Feng You, the top talents of the Nine Hells. And in terms ofbat power, she far surpassed them!

    "Is this my power?" The War Princess, feeling the overwhelming strength of her Mortal Dust Devil Blood, murmured to herself.

    This Mortal Dust Devil Blood nourished her body, fortifying her flesh and bones to rival that of demons. Once she returned to the Endless Netherworld where she had ess to high-grade Deste Essence, her delicate body would be as formidable as a wild beast.

    A twist of her waist, she reckoned, could cost someone half their life.

    "Don''t get ahead of yourself, this is my power," Yun Xiao slowly ceased his cultivation, then unapologetically stated.

    "I know!" the War Princess thought contemptuously. How can this guy be so domineering?

    He looked like a gentle jade-like young master, ethereal as an Immortal. Only in close quarters did she realize he was a wolf in sheep''s clothing.

    "You can return to the Endless Netherworld now," Yun Xiao said after a moment of recuperation.

    "Do you no longer need me here?" the War Princess asked.

    "Hmm. Almost done. You''re needed more over there." Yun Xiao paused, then added, "Weren''t you itching to go back to the Endless Netherworld to show off? With the power of the Fate Ocean Realm, you can stir up a storm there."

    "Yes, I am indeed eager," the War Princess bit her lip, "but... will I get to see you again?" After speaking, her heart raced, flushing her entire body red.

    "I''ll be returning to the Nine Hells soon too, that''s where the new battlefield is. We''ll meet there. Also, don''t let anyone elsee through your Endless Netherworld entrance," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Okay!" The War Princess felt her blood surge with excitement. "So what''s our goal? To dominate the Nine Hells?"

    "Dominate?" Yun Xiao paused, his tone turning icy. "To be honest, I''m not particrly interested in that. My only goal in life is to grow stronger. To achieve that, I need resources. But now there''s a bunch of people who not only don''t want me to get those resources but are also eager for my death. So, I might as well wipe them out and dominate the Nine Hells along the way."

    Yun Xiao longed for a tranquil life of cultivation, but the world just wouldn''t let him be! The more he revealed his terrifying talent, the more those outside the Eternal Sword Prison wanted to annihte him. No exnation seemed to suffice.

    Perhaps this was theplexity of the mortal world. Everyone fought for their own interests, some even betraying their ancestors and beliefs for longevity, regardless of the consequences.

    "The path to immortality is a path of contention. Talent, after all, isn''t strength and can''t intimidate everyone." The War Princess nodded.

    "Especially when hatred is added to the mix, the scores be unclear," Yun Xiao said.

    Take Fu Longxiang, for instance, or the Ku Family Sword Cultivators. Their deaths demanded vengeance.

    "I''ll do my best to ensure the Endless Netherworld stands with you. That way, in the strife of the Nine Hells, the Eternal Sword Prison will have an ally," the War Princess dered fervently. She was born for battle! Rather than indulging in affection, following him into battle seemed to excite her more.

    "Go ahead," Yun Xiao said indifferently.

    "Got it, Big Brother Yun," the War Princess called out sweetly.

    "Too presumptuous, call me master."

    "..."

    During his conversation with the War Princess, Yun Xiao was descending towards the Divine Continent on an ancient bronze coffin that soared across the heavens and earth.

    Indeed, his destination was the Divine Continent, not the Heavenly Realm. Not even the Sea of Swords, but Azure Spirit.

    "Nine Suns Dantian?" Yun Xiao had already integrated Ling Chen''s Seed of Creation talent into his Dantian ahead of time.

    This caused a revolutionary change in the structure of his Dantian''s sacred power!

    The power of the Primordial Void, like the creation of the universe, gave birth to nine scorching suns hovering over his Dantian. They were incredibly solid and intense, able to store power far beyond his peers. Even in the Nine Hells, where Seeds of Creation were rampant, he was more than ten times stronger than the average prodigy.

    In Azure Spirit, the difference would be even more pronouncedpossibly a thousand times or more. Of course, since Azure Spiritcked the Dao Heart Realm, this couldn''t be verified.

    However, Yun Xiao only needed to look down to see a zing tinum light emanating from below his navel, even visible through his white garment. Such was the prestige of the Nine Suns Dantian.

    "Hehehe, if someone wasn''t looking carefully, they might think your dao root was shining," Blue Star, the coffin lid, eerily remarked.

    "What dao root? Hey, watch yournguage," Yun Xiao retorted. He tried operating the primordial void suns of his brand-new Nine Suns Dantian. Under the dominion of the Seed of Creation talent, his Yang Void sacred power became even more intense and scorching. He was like a zing sun, illuminating for thousands of miles.

    "Previously, Fu Longxiang''s Seed of Creation talent was in his meridians, which were inherently inferior to the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, and got absorbed by them... Now that the Nine Heavens Star Meridians are fully awakened, they''re about on par with the Nine Suns Dantian!" Yun Xiao stood up!

    In the midst of the howling wind, as he activated the power of the Primordial Void, nine scorching suns forming a ring were clearly visible beneath his flowing white robe, around his lower abdomen. Surrounding these zing suns was awork of stars, pulsating with ster energy.

    Thiswork spread throughout Yun Xiao''s body, forming a cultivation system as vast as the starry sky!

    Nine Stars, Nine Suns Illuminating the Body!

    This made him, already ethereal, appear even more like an Exiled Sword Immortal descending to the mortal world, a celestial being incarnate, wless in every way.

    "There probably isn''t any other Core attribute Seed of Creation in the Nine Hells that surpasses these two," Blue Starmented.

    "After all, one is from ''The Rise of the Cripple, Ye Xingchen'', and the other from ''The Rebirth of the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, Ling Chen''," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "Any Seeds of Creation talents you absorb in the future can continue to strengthen the Nine Suns and Nine Stars," Blue Star chuckled. "Nowadays, with the Heavenly Dao absent and petty people overshadowing the sky, chaos reigns in this era. Such anomalies on the path to immortality will only increase... But this is also good, as each of them carries great fortune, which can speed up your advancement."

    "By the way, have you finished refining that Divine Sky Sword Emperor?" Yun Xiao asked. It was because they said they could <em>recycle </em>this waste that Yun Xiao had them directly imprison Ling Chen''s corpse and soul in the ancient bronze coffin.

    "The sword bone is purified, and the soul tempered. It''s almost done!" Blue Star replied.

    Yun Xiao sat atop the coffin, faintly hearing the Divine Sky Sword Emperor''s soul screaming in agony and cursing him from inside. But his heart was as calm as a still well; he hardly listened.

    Soon after, Ling Chen''s voice faded away into oblivion.

    Yun Xiao knew that only now was he truly dead.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ancient bronze coffin burst open, transforming into a little ck beast.

    "So, it''s done now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    No sooner had he spoken, Blue Star, with a twisted face, abruptly spat something out onto his hand.

    <em>BLEGH! </em>Two faintly glowing objectsnded in Yun Xiao''s palm.

    One was a small, nine-colored sword.

    The other was a misty, illusory white jade bead.

    "What are these?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "This is the Divine Cosmic Sword. Since it''s transformed into a Sword Soul, we stripped the sword bone. We''ve removed all traces of Ling Chen, leaving it as a nascent sword bone that anyone can absorb," Blue Star said with an arrogant tilt of the head.

    "So you can be just like Ling Chen by absorbing it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Pretty much! When it reaches its full power, it can devour entire worlds!" Blue Star exined.

    "That powerful, huh?" Yun Xiao had anticipated this, but hearing firsthand about such remarkable effects still left him astonished. He had personally experienced the might of this primeval era''s mythical sword of destruction!

    "Heh, it''s just like the Cosmic Pagoda, trash," Blue Star scoffed.

    "..." Yun Xiao was about to ask if his Heaven Burial Sword Soul could absorb it, but Blue Star''s dismissal dampened his enthusiasm.

    "What about this thing?" he asked, referring to the white light sphere.

 Chapter 310: A Partner to Drink With on the Immortal Path

    Chapter 310: A Partner to Drink With on the Immortal Path

    Well, what''s this?

    Blue Star chuckled. This is a soul bead, forged from the soul of the Divine Sky Sword Emperor himself. Stripped of most of his three souls and seven spirits, what''s left is his pure cultivation memory. It contains his insights on the Divine Cosmic Sword and the 3,000 techniques of his Divine Sky Sword Art. The techniques you sneakily learnedVast Sky, Void Rend, Spatial Inverse share just three out of 3,000. The guy had a lot more tricks up his sleeve.

    Damn, so is he dead or what? Yun Xiao asked, his face nk.

    Dead as can be, leaving behind only the useful bits and bobs, Blue Star replied.

    Poor guy. Yun Xiao pinched the white jade soul bead and asked, Can I directlyprehend his 3,000 sword techniques from this?

    Better leave it to the owner of the Divine Cosmic Sword. This soul bead needs to recognize its master. Only the master can explore its cultivation memories, Blue Star said, then nced disdainfully at Yun Xiao, No need to say it, I already know who you''re nning to give these trinkets to.

    Bright as two big whitenterns hanging high! Red Moon eximed, pping his ws, trying his best to describe the substantial <em>assets</em> being referred to.

    If it''s junk, it should naturally be handed down to fools, right? Yun Xiao packed away the nine-colored small sword and the white jade soul bead.

    Right you are, Blue Star clicked his tongue, As you go on a rampage towards the heavens, it makes sense to have a trash bin on earth, to pile up some discarded stuff

    You''re the trash bin, Yun Xiao snapped, frustrated. His wish was actually quite simple.

    Having witnessed the fear of death in the Withered Bone Keeper, he understood even more that birth, aging, sickness, and death were the inescapable fates of life. The more mundane the world, the harder it is to avoid.

    Now, there were only two people he couldn''t forget!

    One had already be the stone in his hand. She was above the skies, with her ancestral god''s real body... She wasn''t here for now, but at least she existed forever.

    And the other, like his former self, was a mortal at the lowest level.

    Disease, lifespan, and agingall were her inevitable fate.

    Yet, Yun Xiao feared the arrival of all these things. So, everything he did, was for a promise, to protect her, to guard the once-beating mortal heart they shared, to preserve the excitement when they first stepped on the path of immortality, to safeguard the fragrance of her hair they shared on that night riding the Sovereign Sword together...

    And he nned to do it with the Cosmic Pagoda and Divine Cosmic Sword!

    All of this was just the pure admiration of a junior brother, who had just stepped on the path of immortality, for his senior sister.

    To Yun Xiao, in his heart and eyes, no woman in the world had status or innate talent, only sincerity and purity.

    In life, what one could never forget was the first encounter.

    A pot of wine on the path of immortality, who to share it with?

    For Yun Xiao, amidst the brutal killings on the path of immortality, in the cunning and fiercepetition, being able to return to the dreamscape, to raise a toast to the moon with that warm and unrestrained person, was the tenderness of finding a haven for the soul, and the leisure of stealing a moment of peace in a hectic life.

    In a blink, Azure Spirit was before his eyes.

    Amidst the dust and smoke of the Immortal path, only this verdantnd remained.

    Even if the Sword Ruins stood tall with its magnificent aura, mountains soaring into the heavenly sea in Yun Xiao''s heart, the sacrednd of his swordsmanship was only the Azure Spirit Mountains, Grand Hall, Little Cloud Residence, the stone table, fish pond, and osmanthus tree...

    And she, forever there!

    Yun Xiao, in his flowing white robes like drifting clouds,nded softly in the courtyard.

    In just over ten days, the flowers in the yard bloomed more brilliantly, the fish in the pond grew plumper, and the stone table remained spotless...

    In this scene, though no one was present, the traces of life were everywhere.

    The young man walked through the flower beds, past the fish pond, stood under the osmanthus tree, and gazed at the white jadenterns on the tree. In that moment, he forgot the dangers and conflicts of the Immortal path, his heart free from worries, enveloped in peace.

    "Junior Brother Yun."

    A soft call came from behind him.

    Yun Xiao shuddered slightly, turning slowly. His gaze fixed on a figure in a ck gown leaning against the door. Her eyes were slightly red, brimming with moisture, and her fingers trembling lightly as they rested on the doorframe.

    "Senior Sister Zhao." Yun Xiao stood in the wind, a faint smile on his face. "A day apart feels like three autumns."

    "And so?"

    "I''ve missed you for more than thirty years."

    That night, the sky was speckled with stars. Yun Xiao sat on the edge of a cliff, and she, above him. Behind her jade back was an abyss. She held Yun Xiao''s head, letting the young man lose his way in the vast expanse of the Immortal path.

    When love deepened, it became inextricable.

    The dreamy starlight showered down on the mortal realm, turning the earth into a sea of colored light, and this couple, the only whiteness in the night.

    Beside them, several jars of fine winey overturned, their nectar rhythmically dripping. Sometimes melodious, sometimes soaring. With wine and a confidante, what more could one desire?

    A thousand cups were too few when shared with a kindred spirit, let alone with a lover.

    Throughout the night, Yun Xiao, fueled by wine, recounted his encounters of the past ten days.

    He hid nothing from Zhao Xuanran, including his interactions with the Creator Immortal and the Primordial Immortal Ancestor, as well as his bond with Chen Xi. Amidst the fragrance of the wine, these stories unfolded into the night.

    And she listened quietly, never speaking.

    When Yun Xiao expressed confusion or uncertainty, she would pass him the wine sk. Her face slightly flushed from the drink, her eyes brimming with deep emotion, and her charmingly naive and carefree demeanor melted away the coldness in Yun Xiao''s heart.

    With another sk of wine down his throat, the smoke and dust in his heart dissipated.

    Yun Xiao''s thoughts about the future did not waver; a mere mortal, unfairly condemned to death, who suddenly received such a divine opportunity, inheriting the path of the Creator Immortal, could not help but feel turmoil in his heart.

    Now, with no kin left in this world, who could he share these wondrous secrets with, hidden in his heart? In his loneliness, who could he talk to?

    Blue Star and Red Moon couldn''t understand Yun Xiao''s feelings.

    And Chen Xi, she was a part of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor...

    In this infinite world, there was only one Zhao Xuanran, like his only kin, truly understanding and pitying him.

    Even the bravest man, in the absence of kin, asionally needed a confidante to pour out his heart, to reveal the sincere side of his youth. Otherwise, forever being a cold, efficient butcher of the Immortal path, might lead to inner demons, leaving only anger and no trace of youthful spirit.

    Only in front of her could he be himself, like a child. No matter how hard he tried, she would tolerate it, epting his childishness...

    "Senior Sister Zhao."

    "What''s wrong?"

    "Nothing''s wrong, just wanted to call you."

    "Fool." Zhao Xuanran hugged his neck tightly, "Call me then."

    "Senior Sister, Senior Sister, Senior Sister..."

    "I''m here." She leaned gently on his shoulder, looking towards the hundred miles of Azure Spirit''s forest, "I dare not journey with you, but I will always stay here. Whenever you want toe home, I will always be here."

    "Home?"

    Azure Spirit, the Sword Pavilion, and the Little Cloud Residence was this his home? On his first day of cultivation, he spent a dreamlike night here.

    "I have a home now," Yun Xiao''s eyes moistened.

    "Nonsense, how can a man not have a home? Even a drifting duckweed has a ce to dream of returning to," Zhao Xuanran chided. After speaking, her fingers pressed against Yun Xiao''s back, leaving several marks.

    "How long will you stay this time?" she asked softly.

    "I''ll leave at dawn."

    "Oh..." Her fingers gently loosened their grip.

    "No matter where I go, I will always forge a path back home." Yun Xiao grasped her jade-like fingers, guiding them back onto his back.

    "Okay." Zhao Xuanran hugged him tightly, very tightly. So tightly it seemed as if she melted into his being, turning into a stream of water that washed away the murderous intent, the hostility, and the worldly trials from his body.

    After her hysterical weeping, she fell into a deep sleep.

    In her dreams, there were many beautiful moments, no more separations, and she was no longer a burden. She could even catch up with him, walk hand in hand above the clouds, looking down upon the dust of the world.

    Only when awake did she realize that it was impossible.

    So, she chose to stay where this dream began, creating a warm home for him, giving his greedy, wrathful, foolish, and chaotic heart a ce to rest.

    They needed each other. She needed a hero, and he needed a home. This dreamsted a long time!

    She always remembered her heart beating fiercely like a wild beast against him. It wasn''t until the sun was high in the sky that she vaguely woke up in Little Cloud Residence.

    There was a white jade bead on the table, a gift from him. But she didn''t look at it. She rushed out, the courtyard fragrant with flowers and grass, but the figure in white was nowhere to be seen.

    "Alwaysing and going without a trace He does his thing and runs off, this kid..." She sat at the stone table, shaking her head, halfughing, half crying.

    "Huh?" She suddenly noticed a few words carved on the stone table.

    <em>Trash, should be left to fools.</em>

    She paused for a moment. "Trash?" She remembered the incredible Cosmic Pagoda.

    At that moment, she finally realized there was a change in her body...

    "Could it be?" She extended her jade hand.

    <em>HUM! </em>A nine-colored Sword Soul rose up.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 311: Eight Hells Colluding!

    Chapter 311: Eight Hells Colluding!

    In the Demon Continent, at the entrance to the Endless Netherworld, the Lion Duke chose only himself, Feng You, and the War Princess to set off.

    "Hide around here and wait for orders," the Lion Dukemanded the rest of the devils.

    "Yes." The devils dispersed and concealed themselves, all too aware of the grim news they had to report to the Inscription Cultivators.

    The Inscription Cultivators were annihted, and the devils had suffered minor losses. How could the other side not be suspicious?

    So they couldn''t leave just yet.

    Shortly after, the trio led by the Lion Duke passed through the passage, leaping from the icy pool, returning to the Endless Netherworld.

    The sky was ck, streaked with blood, and heavy with the scent of blood, lending it a chilling, eerie atmosphere.

    "We''re finally back."

    The familiar sensation stirred something in the War Princess''s heart.

    How could one not feel overwhelmed, returning with unparalleled talents of the Fate Ocean Realm, to a ce of past sorrows?

    "Little miss." From the shadows, a group of devils emerged, with a slightly emaciated man gently calling out. His eyes were like ck vortexes, soul-stealing and mesmerizing, quite different from the ''robust'' appearance of other devils.

    "Second Uncle," the War Princess greeted without much expression.

    "Good to have you back." Second Uncle scrutinized her, his pupils contracting slightly, a storm brewing deep in his gaze. He sighed softly, "Fate Ocean Realm... The Nine-Tiered Bloodline, truly as legendary as they say."

    "Brother, let''s talk about something else" the Lion Duke signaled with his eyes, hinting at more pressing matters.

    They emerged to find Qingzan and her group of Inscription Cultivators watching the War Princess with cold expressions.

    "Where are the Inscription Cultivators?" Second Uncle wondered, ncing at the icy pool.

    Qingzan''s gaze shifted from the War Princess to the Lion Duke.

    "Something happened." The Lion Duke sighed.

    At these words, whether it was the group of devils or the Inscription Cultivators, their expressions turned icy cold.

    "Speak!" Second Unclemanded.

    The Lion Duke then began recounting the incident surrounding the ambush of Ling Chen.

    "After barging into the cave, we indeed saw with our own eyes Ling Chen hurriedly trying to control the Cmity Seal Sword," the Lion Duke concluded, turning his gaze to Qingzan.

    Qingzan''s dark green eyes swirled with icy light.

    "Madame, the folks from your family sure have wild ambitions," an elder bitterly remarked. The tragedy that befell Fu Longxiang had shattered the hearts of the Inscription Cultivators'' upper echelons. Now, they brimmed with endless rage and hatred.

    "Shut up," Qingzan said to the elder. Then, she stared coldly at the Lion Duke. "Since the Lion Duke saw it with his own eyes, then the real culprit must be Ling Chen."

    "Yes!"

    "Then, may I ask the Lion Duke, what about the other Inscription Cultivators who witnessed it with you? What about Gongyang Sheng?" Qingzan pressed.

    This fold world was a peculiar ce, akin to a sealed sewer. Sending people in meant those outside were in the dark, who knew what really happened in that sewer?

    "Unfortunately, some idents urred during our attempt to besiege Ling Chen and the Ku Family Sword Cultivators."

    The Lion Duke spoke heavily, starting from Ling Chen''s escape to their killing of Qingzan''s sister, Ku Qinglian, and the extermination of all the Sword Cultivators, and finally to Moon Fairy and the 70 million-strong demon army surrounding them.

    "That fox demon is at least in the Fate Ocean Realm. He''s evenparable to an Overseer! His demon army fought fearlessly, posing a great threat to our alliance. I had to protect these two kids and fight our way out of a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood. As for the other Inscription Cultivators and devils, I waited for a long time with no sign of them, I fear they might have been killed by that fox demon." The Lion Duke''s eyes were red, his acting quite impressive.

    "Everyone''s dead?" Second Uncle and the other devils exchanged looks, deeply furrowing their brows.

    The loss of 60 Fate Ocean Realmbatants was a fatal blow to them. A gap in the ranks of the strong!

    "How could that fold world harbor such a high-level fox demon?"

    "What kind of heaven-defying bloodline is this?"

    The expressions of everyone present, human and devil alike, were grave and cold, feeling like the monsters of the Nine Hells were multiplying. Little did they know that with the death of Ling Chen, the remaining monsters were all Yun Xiao.

    "This matter is serious, we must report to the lord immediately." Second Uncle looked at the Lion Duke, speaking solemnly, "Take the little miss and Feng You back to the pce."

    "Hold on!" Qingzan suddenly called out coldly.

    Everyone turned to see this frost-like swordswoman emanating extreme cold. She stared intently at the Lion Duke, "You and the War Princess have been the only ones talking from the beginning. The Cmity Seal Purgatory suffered losses for nothing, and even the whereabouts of the Cmity Seal Sword are unknown, and you just want to leave?"

    "Losses for nothing? Our losses are even greater! Besides, the Cmity Seal Sword is in Ling Chen''s hands, and he might have already returned to the Sword Ruins. Why don''t you go ask him for it?" The War Princess retorted angrily.

    "Madame Qingzan." Second Uncle shook his head, "We have been in good rtions with the Cmity Seal Purgatory for generations. There''s no need for you to imagine that we are plotting against you. I know it''s hard for you to ept the betrayal of a family member... Why don''t you confront them in the Sword Ruins, and find out the truth?"

    "If you don''t believe it, you can continue to send people in for investigation. We''re not stopping you," the War Princess said discontentedly.

    "Madame..." another elderly Inscription Cultivator whispered into her ear, "What''s done is done. With slim chances of good oues, we should take preemptive action. After all, there are only a few factions on thisnd. If we eliminate the two Exiled Sword Immortals, at least we won''t make a mistake."

    He meant that, in such a situation, squabbling with the devils was pointless.

    Hearing this, Qingzan suppressed her raging fury and said to Second Uncle, "What you''ve just said is true. I sincerely hope we remain close allies. But if one day we find ourselves deceived, when all bridges are burned, someone will suffer."

    "Suffer my foot..." the War Princess muttered.

    "Adults are talking, kids shouldn''t interrupt. That''s basic manners," Qingzan shot her a look.

    "Respecting the elderly and cherishing the young, that''s what true manners are," the War Princess retorted.

    "Let''s say less," the Lion Duke pulled her behind him, then turned to Qingzan, "Madame, may we leave now?"

    "The Lion Duke has a sense of humor. This is the devil''s territory, how could I stop the prodigious princess with the awakened Nine-Tiered Bloodline from leaving?" Qingzan said somberly.

    "It''s good that you understand. With the way you''ve been acting, others might think you own the ce," the War Princess quipped.

    Hearing this, Qingzan''s face grew even colder, but this time, she remained silent.

    Just then, an Inscription Cultivator came over with a message. He whispered a few words in Qingzan''s ear. Her icy demeanor thawed slightly, and she let out a coldugh.

    Second Uncle also seemed to have received the same information. Frowning, he said to Qingzan, "You actually spread the news of the Heavenly Land throughout the Nine Hells?"

    Qingzan shook her head. "Your exploration of Heavenly Land till now has yielded nothing, showing that this so-called <em>Heavenly Land</em> is but a fanciful and impractical illusion... Compared to the Heavenly Land, what the other eight hells really want to know now is the whereabouts of the two Exiled Sword Immortals!"

    "So, you easily break the promise of silence?" Second Uncle shook his head.

    "Things have changed. To rid the Nine Hells of a scourge, we Inscription Cultivators act with great historical righteousness. Abandoning the elusive dreams of the Heavenly Land, we focus on the practical task of eradicating the Exiled Sword Immortals. Snuffing out these two locusts in their infancy to restore peace and rity to the Nine Hells, is there a problem with that?" Qingzan challenged.

    "If this entrance was in your Cmity Seal Purgatory, you wouldn''t be saying this," Second Uncle said darkly.

    "You underestimate the spirit of self-sacrifice of us Inscription Cultivators," Qingzan replied with a smile.

    "Your son was tortured like that, and you still manage tough?" the War Princess asked curiously, seizing the moment as Qingzan smirked.

    It was as if Qingzan, in her moment of pride, was suddenly pped across the face.

    Her smile froze, then slowly faded, as she said coldly, "The joint ambush on the Exiled Sword Immortals is now a consensus among the eight hells, and your lord has agreed too. Currently, the eight hells are deploying arge number of powerful fighters to blockade the two entrances, waiting for the locusts to emerge. Once these two locusts are dead, you can continue exploring the Heavenly Land, and I believe no one will have any objections, right?"

    At this, the devils fell silent. The Lion Duke and the Second Uncle exchanged nces.

    The War Princess wanted to speak, but the Lion Duke held her back. They all knew that once the two Exiled Sword Immortals were dead, the War Princess''s presence would also evoke envy.

    Whether she would be targeted then depended on the mood of the other seven hells.

    "Has the Nine Hells descended to the point where whoever produces a genius will die?" Second Uncle thought with a reluctant smile.

    Qingzan''s words sounded pleasant, but they were actually a severe warning.

    "The eight hells'' ambushers will soon be in position. At the Eternal Sword Prison, they will force their way in, and here in the Endless Netherworld, I trust you''ll all wee them with open arms?" After saying this, Qingzan intended to sneer again, but remembering the War Princess, she refrained, feeling even colder inside.

    "The War Princess is truly beautiful. I wonder which young talent from which family will be fortunate enough to cultivate the path of heaven with such a beauty?" Qingzan suddenly said. Her choice of words was deliberate, as if she were provoking the Endless Netherworld.

    "Feng You is the little miss'' betrothed. In a few days, when shees of age, they will have their wedding," Second Uncle said casually.

    "Oh? Congrattions," Qingzan calcted the days, "So that''s not far off. No wonder you''re in a hurry to return. Is it to prepare for the wedding?"

    "Heh," the War Princess now wanted to smash this woman''s mouth.

    "Did you hear that? Train hard, I want to tear her mouth apart!" she inwardly spoke to someone in her heart. Yet, she couldn''t help but worry. With the powerful fighters from the eight hellsing to block the way, could he survive and return to the Sword Ruins?

    Afterwards, Qingzan went to wee the guests from the eight hells.

    Despite the ambush, the Lion Duke didn''t hurry to leave but instead had a secret conversation with Second Uncle in a corner.

    "Brother, actually, our people didn''t die," the Lion Duke began, stunning Second Uncle. He was still bleeding inside over their supposed deaths!

    "They didn''t die? And you said they did? Are you out of your mind?" Second Uncle frowned.

    "No, I had thought this through. Just listen," the Lion Duke exined Moon Fairy''s request and concluded, "I saw it with my own eyes, that fox is truly abnormal. If I hadn''t agreed, at least half of our brothers would have died."

    "Is it true that Exile Ling snatched the Cmity Seal Sword and killed Fu Longxiang?" the Second Uncle asked.

    "That''s absolutely true. Our niece saw it with her own eyes. The Cmity Seal Sword was indeed in Ling Chen''s hands, no doubt about it," the Lion Duke affirmed.

    Second Uncle fell silent for a moment.

    "What do you think about this fox? It''s a demon. Once it enters the Primeval Demon Hell, it will increase their strength. We and the demons are neighbors; there''s no direct conflict, but having too strong a neighbor isn''t good," Second Uncle said gravely.

    "I think we should befriend it and send it to the Primeval Demon Hell," the Lion Duke stated firmly.

    "Exin your reasoning," Second Uncle demanded.

    "Brother, you saw Qingzan''s attitude. They despise any out-of-the-ordinary genius, especially after the crippling of Fu Longxiang. Now they can''t stand anyone''s sess. Once the two Exiled Sword Immortals are eliminated, our niece will be the next target!" the Lion Duke exined.

    "Hmm" the Second Uncle turned his head.

    "Besides, the Cmity Seal Purgatory''s real allies among the devils aren''t us. I used to suspect it, but now I''m certain they even plotted against our niece," the Lion Duke said with a cold face.

    "So, when you made the deal with the fox, you took into ount the nature of the other hells? Now, you''re nning to send that demon genius to the Primeval Demon Hell to take some heat off our side?" Second Uncle raised an eyebrow.

    "Exactly." The Lion Duke nodded.

    "If that''s the case, we can join forces with the Primeval Demon Hell. That way, others will be hesitant to act. After all, the little miss and that fox aren''t at a level that terrifies them yet, so there''s still room..." Second Uncle''s eyes slowly ignited with fervor.

    "Too cautious!" the War Princess, overhearing their conversation, scoffed, "If you ask me, why not just ally with the Sword Ruins? Form a three-hell alliance and take on the other five!"

    "Nonsense," Second Uncle retorted.

    "I just can''t stand these cowards. They don''t dare topete fairly and plot to kill geniuses. What kind of skill is that?" the War Princess finished, spitting in disdain.

 Chapter 312: Prison Warden Primordial Coffin

    Chapter 312: Prison Warden Primordial Coffin

    As the Lion Duke and Second Uncle listened, the room seemed to darken with their dismay. They hastily said in unison, "Keep it down, will you!"

    Their eyes met, sharing a moment of mutual understanding. They both knew that if they were to ally with the Sword Ruins, the situation would turn grave.

    "The problem is, now that the eight hell alliance is blocking the way, that fox can''t get out," Second Uncle said.

    "No worries, the whole uproar with the Exiled Sword Immortals will eventually settle down. These folks can''t stay in the Endless Netherworld forever." The Lion Duke had already thought it through. He turned to the War Princess and said, "Ill take you back to the pce first, then seek out Qing Ge to discuss this fox matter."

    "Qing Ge? That beast is rather clever for a demon." Second Uncle nodded in agreement. "In that case, make it quick."

    "This side is up to you. I doubt either Exiled Sword Immortal will frequent this entrance. So, we''ll stay out of their affairs for now," the Lion Duke said.

    "Understood."

    At that moment, Qingzan had already descended with a group of people. However, they were all lurking in the shadows, encircling the entrance without rushing to greet the devils.

    After bringing them here, Qingzan didnt bid farewell and immediately headed towards the direction of the Sword Ruins.

    Back in the Eternal Sword Prison, at the eastern side of the vortex portal, there was a gigantic rift valley, as if it had been cleaved open by an immense sword from the heavens.

    In the depths of the valley, the Withered Bone Keeper, Ku Xuan, Feng Buhui, and six other Overseers stood in the shadows, their gazes fixed on the entrance to the Demon Continent, their expressions shifting between light and dark.

    "Still no news. I wonder if Exile Ling has reached Heavenly Land?" Ku Xuan paced back and forth with his hands behind his back.

    Behind him, the decrepit Withered Bone Keeper sat cross-legged in a corner, head bowed, hands sped, his long eyebrows drooping, his shoulders ck.

    Though withered with age, their Ku Family cultivated the Deathly Sword Daothe closer to death, the more formidable they became. Where he sat, within a ten-mile radius, no grass grew; the once ck soil turned ashen. Worms and insects, regardless of size,y dead, suffocated.

    The others, though not pacing like Ku Xuan, were equally anxious.

    Suddenly, a streak of green sword light tore through the sky, piercing the clouds, transforming into a cold, green silhouette that appeared before them.

    <em>HUM! </em>Chilling sword intent swept through, blossoming into green sword flowers around her, the ground where she stood crisscrossed with dense sword marks.

    "Qingzan?" Apart from the Withered Bone Keeper, the six Overseers all turned their gaze towards her.

    "You don''t know anything?" Qingzan swept a cold nce over them. Her attitude made the elders frown.

    "What are you talking about, my daughter?" Ku Xuan stepped forward with a smile.

    "Qinglian and Xuxu are dead. The people you sent to protect Exile Ling... all wiped out," Qingzan said coldly. These deceased, her peers, each one was familiar to her.

    "What? You must be joking!" Ku Xuan''s world went dark as he spoke, his voice trembling.

    Qingzan shook her head, somewhat exasperated. "Over the years, you really have lost everything in the Eternal Sword Prison. Now all you can do is hide here, gambling, unable to control anything, not even aware of the dead."

    "You!" Even Ku Xuan couldn''t listen anymore. His face turned purple with disbelief, as did Feng Buhui''s.

    "Tell us what happened," the seated Withered Bone Keeper asked, his voice as thin as a thread.

    Qingzan, still respectful of her grandfather, exined everything she knew, including the fate of the Fu Longxiang, clearly and concisely.

    "How could this happen!" Hearing her ount, Ku Xuan and the others turned pale, their hearts torn apart.

    "Exile Ling disregarded our rtionship and treated Longxiang so harshly?" Ku Xuan''s heart bled. Fu Longxiang was the grandson he was most proud of.

    "It''s all your doing! You are the reason Longxiang suffers a fate worse than death!" Qingzan red at them resentfully.

    "Hah..." The Overseers exchanged looks, their hearts a mix of emotions. They knew that Ling Chen was uncontroble, but they hadn''t expected him to be so utterly unyielding.

    "Grandfather, I need an exnation," Qingzan demanded coldly.

    "Exnation? It''s simply because you were hostile towards Exile Ling, your intent to kill obvious, so he dealt with your son." The Withered Bone Keeper looked up coldly, his eyes like whirlpools of death, fixed on Qingzan. "In fact, you circumvented us, coborated with the devils secretly, and infiltrated Heavenly Land to kill the Exiled Sword Immortals. You betrayed us first, and yet you daree back to question us?"

    "You''re deluded and beyond help." Qingzan shook her head.

    "Since you''ve chosen to devote everything to the Cmity Seal Purgatory, stop pretending here." The Withered Bone Keeper bowed his head deeply, his voice full of disappointment.

    "Fine then." Qingzan''s eyes were deep and cold. "Onest warning. The other eight hells are now united in their intent to kill the Exiled Sword Immortals. It''s more serious than you anticipate. There''s still hope if you turn back now. Continue this folly, and the magic treasures aimed at those two will fall on you instead. Not even ten thousand Sword Relics will save your lives then."

    "Are you suggesting they''re going to block the entrances?" The Withered Bone Keeper''s gaze turned icy.

    "They''ve already surrounded both," Qingzan said with a coldugh.

    The Overseers fell silent. From their vantage point, shadows could indeed be seen near the entrance to the Demon Continent. And the numbers were growing!

    "Mu Tianjian and the others are like turtles in a basket. The eight hells and the Exiled Sword Immortals are at a point of no return. The moment those two locustse out, whoever dares to protect them is doomed!"

    After saying this, Qingzan turned her back to the group. "You''re lucky, not being at the eye of the storm. I advise you to watch the show. Once the Exiled Sword Immortals and Mu Tianjian are dead, you can return to the Sword Ruins and continue yourfortable lives. Otherwise, just the matter of the Heavenly Mirror will be enough trouble for you."

    With that, she rose into the air on her Sovereign Sword.

    "Ling Chen must die, and the Cmity Seal Sword must return. This is the will of all Inscription Cultivators!"

    At the entrance, the Sword Warden and other Overseers, including Mu Dalong, were huddled around the vortex portal. Their expressions were frosty. In the shadows around them, uninvited figuresdemons, devils, and other malevolent beingshad gathered, forming arge encirclement.

    This was a severe provocation right before their eyes! The territory of the Nine Hells was invible! But now, they were helpless! These figures represented the might of the eight hells, sending a clear signal to the Sword Ruins.

    "Dad, things are getting more serious," Mu Dalong said, her face tinged with worry.

    "Heh, everyone''s so panicked, it''s almost funny," the Sword Warden sneered coldly.

    "The moment hees out, it''ll surely spark a life-and-death sh. This isn''t an assassination anymore, it''s outright murder. What do we do? Bring over the entire army from the Sword Ruins? But what if the eight hells take that chance to attack the Sword Ruins?" Mu Dalong''s thoughts were in turmoil.

    "Something must have happened, scaring the eight hells even more," the Sword Warden said with a chilling smile. "This goes to show how remarkable Exile Yun is. He probably caused them some heavy losses."

    "Dad, what do you mean?" Mu Dalong asked.

    "We''ve bet everything on this already, and we''ve been winning. To back out now is to give up halfway. Better to bet blindly to the end, no matter what moves others make, just take them as theye," the Sword Warden advised.

    "Right, right." Mu Dalong felt somewhat relieved and looked towards the entrance, murmuring resentfully, "What''s with Exile Yun? He hasn''t sent anyone out to report that he''s safe."

    Just as she finished speaking, the vortex stirred, and soon a burly, dark-skinned man emerged.

    In that instant, hundreds of cold eyes locked onto Mu Daxiong!

    A killing intent instantly clouded the sky!

    But realizing it was Mu Daxiong, the murderous intent dissipated.

    "Daxiong? Come here quickly," Mu Dalong called out eagerly.

    Father, son, and daughter gathered together.

    "How''s the situation?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "I dont know what method Exile Yun used, but before we could even act, all the Ku Family Sword Cultivators and Inscription Cultivators who went in were dead. Even the devils seem to have been scared off, fleeing in disarray. Now, the Heavenly Land belongs to him," Mu Daxiong said, looking dazed and confused.

    "Are you serious?" Mu Dalong grabbed his arm, extremely excited.

    "This isn''t even the best part!" Mu Daxiong said.

    "Spill it!" The Sword Warden smacked him on the head.

    Mu Daxiong yelped in pain and quickly said, "Ling Chen was butchered by Exile Yun. Dead as a doornail, not a hair left."

    "What! Ling Chen..." Mu Dalong was about to exim in shock, but Mu Daxiong quickly covered her mouth, his eyes wide, "Sis, keep it down! Don''t let others know Ling Chen is dead."

    "Why?" Mu Dalong was confused.

    "I don''t know either. Exile Yun''s orders. He said that although this guy has kicked the bucket, he can still be of use, so we shouldn''t speak of it," Mu Daxiong exined.

    "Seems like Exile Yun knows what he''s doing," the Sword Warden remarked.

    "Daxiong! Go back in and tell him not toe out..." Mu Dalong felt the urgency, sensing people approaching. They clearly didn''t want Mu Daxiong to go back in to report.

    "No need," Mu Daxiong shook his head with a sly grin. "Exile Yun already knows about the ambush of the other eight hells."

    "How does he know that?" Mu Dalong asked, stunned.

    "Don''t know, maybe he''s got some divine sight! Anyway, he''s a real Immortal!" Mu Daxiong said.

    "The only thing that can kill a true Immortal is an even more terrifying true Immortal." The Sword Warden chuckled darkly, then patted his son''s shoulder. "So, what does he want us to do?"

    "Exile Yun instructed us to pull out of here, not to sh head-on with them," Mu Daxiong replied.

    "Oh?" This surprised even the Sword Warden. One thing was clear. Yun Xiao was audacious!

    "Of course, don''t pull out too tantly. Make it look like we''re being forced to retreat," Mu Daxiong added.

    "Got it." The Sword Warden now had a n.

    At that moment, the forces of the eight hells began to appear, with Qingzan among them.

    "Opposing the eight hells might seem crazy to us, but you lot, opposing a true Immortal, are even crazier." The Sword Warden''s lips curled into a slight smile.

    Back in the Demon Continent, Yun Xiao hovered above the Forbidden Fate Volcano.

    The devils were at the entrance to the Endless Netherworld, and the remaining Sword Cultivators were at the entrance to the Eternal Sword Prison.

    On this vastnd of the Demon Continent, only he floated alone! Next to him was a gigantic ancient bronze coffin.

    "Prison Warden,e forth!" At Yun Xiao''s long-awaitedmand, the ancient bronze coffin opened.

    A violet Primordial Coffin burst forth, crashing onto thend of the Demon Continent!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 313: Its Happening!

    Chapter 313: It''s Happening!

    The Primordial Coffins! These were the game-changing relics for the rebirth of the Creator Immortal.

    After Heaven Burial, nine Primordial Coffins remained, deeply hidden within the depths of Blue Star and Red Moon, eternally undisturbed, shrouded in boundless mystery.

    Only when nearing a suitable Dao Source would they stir.

    And the <em>Prison Warden</em> had already reacted to the Demon Continent. Only after addressing the main threat of the demon race did Yun Xiao bring it forth.

    Before this, Yun Xiao had already alerted the Supreme Marshal, ordering all the forces in the Divine Continent to be on high alert, sweeping away the remaining demons!

    With the emergence of the Prison Warden, thend of the Demon Continent seemed to fall into an absolute silence of death.

    Yun Xiao stood beside this ancient violet coffin, scenes of Heaven Burial''s transformation flooding his mind...

    "It''s evolving automatically." The little ck beast poked its head out from his embrace, its deep blue eyes fixated on the Primordial Coffin.

    "Right!"

    This was like what happened to the Heaven Burial Primordial Coffin in the past. The Demon Continent was simr to the Divine Pir of the Divine Continent!

    Yun Xiao gazed afar, beneath his feet in the soilyer, the violet crystalline continent seemed influenced by the Prison Warden, emitting a faint violet glow. This light even prated the soil and rockyers, casting a violet halo over thend.

    Viewed from the angle of the Heavenly Realm, the entire Demon Continent was bathed in violet light, appearing incredibly magnificent, as if the world was evolving.

    "A tiny fold world, harboring two Dao Sources?" Yun Xiao murmured.

    "This must be why Creator chose to restart here! He must have mapped out a route to collect these Dao Sources," Blue Star spoke softly.

    "The Kunlun Inferno, is that the final destination?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Your past self perished in the Kunlun Inferno, and will also truly be reborn there," Blue Star dered confidently.

    "That seems like a long way off." Yun Xiao couldn''t see through the mist on the road ahead, his gaze focused on the Primordial Coffin before him. "I remember our first meeting. It even tried to tackle me. What a violent fellow."

    No sooner had he spoken, the Prison Warden Primordial Coffin suddenly trembled. A majestic, domineering, and soul-shaking dragon''s roar erupted from the coffin, instantly sweeping across the entire Demon Continent.

    For a moment, every remaining creature in the Demon Continent, even those hidden deep, clutched their ears in agony, instinctively crumpling to the ground, trembling violently.

    "A dragon? A beast?" Yun Xiao remembered that the Heaven Burial Primordial Coffin birthed a gigantic azure lotus.

    What was buried in this Prison Warden Primordial Coffin?

    <em>RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE! </em>The violet coffin before him continued to thunderously vibrate. The ferocious dragon''s roar even reached the Divine Continent, startling countless citizens.

    With its tremors, the very earth of the Demon Continent shook. The earth cracked, rivers reversed, and volcanoes erupted. It was as if the end of the world hade.

    "It''s clear, its wild, different in nature from Heaven Burial," Yun Xiao observed the violet coffin intensely.

    Heaven Burial was cold and lethal, the kind that was ruthless with few words.

    However, this Prison Warden, from inside out, was fierce and domineering, exuding a tyrannical emperor''s aura,manding deep reverence and soul-deep submission.

    "And moreover, this is a power that directly reaches the soul!" Those few dragon roars even shook Yun Xiao, as if his soul was being oppressed by the heavens.

    <em>CRACK! </em>At that moment, the coffin suddenly started quaking, fissures spreading across it.

    "Though it''s breaking out of a coffin, it feels like something hatching from an egg" Yun Xiao''s heart stirred. Was it death, or life? That was the riddle. His heart raced slightly, his eyes glued to the cracks of the violet coffin, filled with tension and anticipation.

    The ten Primordial Coffins were key to surpassing the past Creator Immortal!

    This was also the most crucial checkpoint on Yun Xiao''s path to ascension. Once sessful, his progress would turn from one to two!

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>At the most tense moment, the violet coffin didn''t even bother with the process of opening; it was already covered in cracks, like a shattered egg!

    Through these cracks, Yun Xiao already saw dense violet mist, and within it, it seemed like a living beast was roaring and mming!

    "It''sing out!" Red Moon eximed excitedly.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As soon as the words left its mouth, the Heaven Burial Primordial Coffin exploded in front of Yun Xiao, turning to dust and smoke, the force sting him away!

    He steadied himself quickly, gazing into the violet mist, only to see a gigantic beast burst forth, descending before Yun Xiao!

    Uh... a dragon? Yun Xiao''s heart jolted.

    As the violet mist dissipated, he was astounded to see a majestic violet dragon before him, its divine might overpowering, fierce and savage, like the ruler of the underworld!

    It had nine dragon heads! These nine heads coiled around each other, forming a cluster, all gazing at Yun Xiao. In those deep violet eyes, there seemed to be distinct spirits, as if harboring nine different souls!

    Demons, they too were beasts! And so was the phoenix!

    However, Yun Xiao deeply understood that this nine-headed violet dragon before him was not just any ordinary beast, nor even a demon ancestor god like the Divine Destion Demon God.

    It was something from another dimension. Perhaps the dragon was merely its external form. What it truly was, like the Heaven Burial azure lotus, remained a mystery to all.

    In the moment of locking gazes with its nine pairs of eyes, Yun Xiao suddenly knew its name.

    The Prison Warden Dao Dragon. As soon as he spoke, the nine heads simultaneously let out a sky-reaching howl that shook both the Divine and Demon Continents, causing all beings in heaven and earth to prostrate.

    The Sword Cultivators and devils remaining on the Demon Continent were equally terrified.

    <em>BOOM! </em>After a deep look at Yun Xiao, the dragon didn''t linger. It descended from the sky and plunged into the violet crystalline continent beneath.

    This process was identical to the fusion of the Heaven Burial azure lotus with the Pir of the Divine Continent!

    Thest time, Yun Xiao waspletely befuddled. But this time, standing upon the Demon Continent, he could feel more acutely the sense of world-shattering devastation.

    "The entire Demon Continent Half of it isposed of rocks,nds, and rivers, and the other half isposed of that violet crystal! Will itpletely copse next?"

    This question was soon to be answered.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The earth trembled mightily! Dazzling violet light illuminated heaven and earth!

    "Someone has obtained the Heavenly Land!" At both entrances, the Sword Cultivators and devils were terrified, their eyes filled with shock.

    They looked out to see the Demon Continent''s earth shattering, countless mountains and stones caving in, copsing, colliding. The sky was filled with dust, demons running amok, and with countless cries of despair.

    The continent seemed as if its skeleton had been removed!

    Logically, it should have broken apart and disintegratedpletely, with the remaining soil scattering into the heavens and earth, bing a part of history.

    But, to Yun Xiao''s surprise, after the disappearance of the violet crystal, countless violet rays enveloped the batterednd of the Demon Continent, reassembling mountains and rivers, recongealing it into a piece ofnd, albeit half its original size!

    As for how many demons survived this cataclysm, no one knew.

    And there stood Yun Xiao, upon this smaller, reborn Demon Continent! Before him, the earth was covered in dust, with countless flows ofva. Under the envelopment of numerous violet rays, after destruction, it began anew.

    "I think I understand the nature of this Prison Warden Dao Dragon," Blue Star suddenly said.

    "Go on," Yun Xiao said.

    "The Heaven Burial Sword Soul appears ordinary and vibrant with life, but that''s an illusion. Its essence is death, destruction, ughter, the ultimate power of demise," Blue Star looked towards the salvational violet light, "This Prison Warden Dao Dragon, on the other hand, is like a saint amidst filth and sin. It possesses divine, purifying power, but it manifests through ways more sinister than evil, more wicked than wickedness. Basically, it''s the embodiment of, ''If I don''t enter hell, who will?'' If the Heaven Burial Sword Soul is a <em>Beautiful Death God</em>, then this beast can be described as a <em>Thug With a Heart of Gold</em>."

    "What the heck, I didn''t quite catch that," Yun Xiao said.

    "In a nutshell, it means... it''s violent and scary, but kind..." Blue Star said.

    "Got it, so their appearances and essences areplete opposites," Yun Xiao chuckled. He had always thought the Demon Continent would inherently be dark and brutal. Unexpectedly, its core was saintly!

    After all, it was a dragon! A Dao Dragon suppressing evil and demons!

    "It''s here!" The birth of the new Demon Continent also signified the merging of the Prison Warden Primordial Coffin with the Demon Continent, creating a new treasure for Yun Xiao!

    What would it be? A sword? A sigil? Or something else? Yun Xiao looked up, and from the distantnd, a beam of purple light suddenly soared, piercing the void and striking right into his forehead!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In an instant, Yun Xiao''s mind was dyed violet, as if a nine-headed dragon was coiling within it.

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao''s eyes flickered with violet light, his entire being as if soaring through the boundless dao realms, a sensation of ethereal ascension. Then, in the next instant, he returned to rity, as if nothing had happened!

    However, Yun Xiao knew that the essence of his cultivation had fundamentally changed. A transformation was underway within his mind!

    <em>HUM! </em>A pattern of violet lines gradually emerged on Yun Xiao''s forehead. The next moment, a totem of the violet nine-headed Prison Warden Dao Dragon materialized! This lifelike design added an extra touch of majesty and dominance to his already divine visage, as if he himself had be a fiercelypassionate saint!

    "It''s a Life Sigil. The Prison Warden Life Sigil." Yun Xiao took a deep breath, then couldn''t help butugh. He was feeling the effects of the Life Sigil! It was quite a delightful surprise!

    "Quick, show it off," Blue Star and Red Moon urged from Yun Xiao''s shoulder, as anxious as ants on a hot pan.

    "Okay." Yun Xiao nodded. With a thought, the nine-headed dragon totem on his forehead suddenly shone with a violet brilliance, and a rectangr Life Sigil materialized in front of him.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Prison Warden Dao Dragon on it came to life, coiling and moving within the sigil, emitting ferocious dragon roars.

    "Though itcks inscription Runes, its aura is far stronger than that of the Myriad Manifestations Sigil of Fu Longxiang," Blue Star remarked admiringly.

    The Primordial Coffin, it was something they still didn''t quite understand.

    "Unlike the Sword Souls, Life Sigils have a multitude of functions and are very versatile," Yun Xiao said, his eyes burning with excitement.

    "Show more!" Red Moon urged, his eyes shining with excitement.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao looked at the Prison Warden Life Sigil and said profoundly, "It has four different forms!"

 Chapter 314: The Third Primordial Coffin!

    Chapter 314: The Third Primordial Coffin!

    "Four forms?" Blue Star and Red Moon asked, surprised.

    Life Sigils were different from Sword Souls. Though a Sword Soul could morph into a Flying Sword, Palm Sword, or Sovereign Sword, these were all still fundamentally swords.

    "The first form is <em>Weapon Evolution, Runic Umbre!</em>" As Yun Xiao spoke, he extended his left hand, gently touching the Prison Warden Sigil. Around his palm, the sigil began to swirl, transforming from a mere sigil into an umbre!

    It resembled an oil-paper umbre, exuding an ethereal, otherworldly charm.

    The dragon patterns on the umbre''s surface shifted and changed, while the structure of the umbre was extraordinary!

    The handle Yun Xiao held was the body and tail of the Prison Warden Dao Dragon. At the top of the umbre, the structure split into nine parts, each ending in a dragon''s head, supporting the Runic Umbre!

    It was clear to see that the edges of this umbre were sharp, and the nine protruding dragon heads possessed a lethal, tearing force!

    <em>CLICK! </em>This violet oil-paper umbre could even be closed, transforming into a short, violet spear.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle. He unfurled the Runic Umbre. He could imagine himself strolling through this world shrouded in dust and chaos, an azure sword in his right hand, and the violet umbre in the other. The world around him was muddled, yet he remained unsullied, a picture of an elegant, deadly god.

    Dust and dirtnding on the umbre were instantly annihted, creating a clean and clear world beneath itunder the violet umbre, a man in white wielding an azure sword...

    "So cool!" Red Moon cheered.

    "Graceful indeed, but what''s the use?" Blue Star asked.

    "The Runic Umbre is both offensive and defensive, capable of blocking all types of attacks, be it magical or physical. It even cleanses all impurities, leaving no poison or miasma beneath ita sanctuary in its own right," Yun Xiao exined.

    In essence, it was like walking through a flower-filled world with an umbre, untouched by a single leaf. In the midst of a raging storm and swirling dust, Yun Xiao, under his umbre, seemed to stand in a different world. d in white, he was the calm amidst the storm.

    "What about the second form?" Blue Star asked, rubbing his hands.

    "The second is <em>Spell Enhancement, Dao Dragon!</em>"

    As Yun Xiao finished speaking, the Runic Umbre melted like liquid, flowing over him and merging into his body. The inscriptions surged into his Nine Suns Dantian and Nine Heavens Star Meridians!

    In an instant, his entire power system was infused with the ferocity of the nine-headed Prison Warden Dao Dragon. Compared to the elegance of the Runic Umbre, this Dao Dragon form of the Prison Warden Sigil was much fiercer!

    Violet dragon patterns even began to surface all over Yun Xiao''s arms, face, and neck This transformation turned him, once a figure of transcendence, into a demonic and brutal being, exuding a terrifyingly oppressive aura!

    Yun Xiao casually unleashed the Wuji Dao Art, and within the spatial vortexes he created, countless violet dragons roared ferociously!

    The sacred purification and soul suppression properties of the Prison Warden Sigil were fully integrated, drastically amplifying the power of this spell.

    Yun Xiao could tell that as the number of Runes on the Prison Warden Sigil increased, his proficiency in daoist spells might eventually rival his swordsmanship.

    "The third form is <em>Magic Treasure Enhancement, Prison Ward!</em>"

    Whether it was a daoist spell or magic treasure enhancement, these were just the basic functions of a Life Sigil. However, when it was carried by the Prison Warden Sigil, the effect was bound to be many times more powerful!

    Yun Xiao took out the Cmity Seal Sword and casually attached the Prison Warden Sigil to it. The sword was instantly enveloped by violet dragons, its demeanor transforming, as if it became an unparalleled weapon of destruction!

    It was clear that the power of the Cmity Seal Sword had also greatly increased!

    However, with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in Yun Xiao''s possession, even if the Prison Warden Sigil greatly empowered the Cmity Seal Sword, it wouldn''t mean much to him.

    "Unless I possess a non-sword type magic treasure with special functions, there''s no need for this form of the Prison Warden Sigil."

    The Heavenly Mirror, for instance, would be suitable. Sadly, it had already been destroyed.

    The Cmity Seal Sword, along with other weapon-type magic treasures, had functions ovepping with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, making them less significant.

    This was not to say that the Prison Ward form was ineffective!

    Whether it was the Runic Umbre, Dao Dragon, or Ward, each had its unique effects, all showcasing the marvelous capabilities of the Prison Warden Sigil! Adapting to the asion with the most suitable form! It was flexible and versatile!

    "And thest form, which I consider the most astonishing," Yun Xiao said as he retrieved the Prison Warden Sigil from the Cmity Seal Sword.

    "Oh?"

    The most astonishing fourth form?

    "This form is called <em>Soulfire Eye!</em>" As Yun Xiao spoke, the Prison Warden Sigil returned to the spot between his eyebrows. But in reality, its true position was within Yun Xiao''s brain, with the forehead marking acting as the sigil''s gateway.

    "Its essence is the fusion of the Prison Warden Sigil with my soul" Yun Xiao closed his eyes. In his mind, soul and sigil underwent a transformation!

    For a Sword Cultivator, the spirit resided in the body, the soul entered the sword, and for an Inscription Cultivator, the sigil was a part of the soul!

    The sigil could be retracted at any time, and being mostly non-physical, it was not easily dissipated.

    This meant that the Prison Warden Sigil was born from Yun Xiao''s soul, already linked by a natural bridge, making their fusion effortless.

    All Inscription Cultivators could merge their soul with their sigil.

    Yet, Yun Xiao''s fusion brought forth a new transformation!

    Blue Star and Red Moon couldn''t see the changes in his brain, but at that moment, even the violet dragon totem between his eyebrows underwent a dramatic shift!

    <em>ROAR! </em>The nine heads of the Prison Warden Dao Dragon all bellowed in unison.

    At that moment, a vertical slit suddenly opened in Yun Xiao''s forehead!

    <em>HUM! </em>From that slit, a violet eye emerged! And within that eye dwelt the soul-shaking, nine-headed Prison Warden Dao Dragon!

    "Holy cow!" The little ck beast recoiled in fright!

    Yun Xiao now had a third eye! The appearance of the violet vertical eye made his aura even more cold and majestic, evoking a sense that a single wrathful re couldy millions to rest.

    "Holy moly, a monster!" Red Moon''s eyes bulged like copper bells.

    "You with four eyes, calling me with three a monster?" Yun Xiao retorted disdainfully.

    "What four eyes? You count those two tiny green beans as my precious eyes?" Red Moonined.

    "Colorblind, are you? My eyes are blue!" Blue Star shot back angrily.

    "Still tiny blue beans."

    "Eat this!"

    The little beast, each controlling an arm, engaged in a brawl.

    "..." Yun Xiao was left dumbfounded by the spectacle. He ignored the little beast, gazing at the world through the Prison Warden Eye on his forehead... a world belonging to the soul.

    "This fourth form, named Soulfire Eye, strengthens the spirit, immune to illusions, chaos, and ghostly possession. I can even control and capture souls... Originally, my mortal soul had weaknesses, but now, it''s invincible."

    Yun Xiao reviewed the four major functions of the Prison Warden Sigil, fullyprehending its powers.

    In summary

    <em>Weapon Evolution Form, Runic Umbre!</em>

    <em>Spell Enhancement Form, Dao Dragon!</em>

    <em>Magic Treasure Enhancement Form, Prison Ward!</em>

    <em>Third Eye Form, Soulfire Eye!</em>

    And from the Soulfire Eye emerged the Prison Warden Eye, where soul and sigil united as one!

    "My Inscription Intent has already solidified like my Sword Intent. To strengthen this Prison Warden Sigil, the next step is to increase the number of inscription Runes."

    This wasn''t too difficult for Yun Xiao at the moment.

    He closed the Prison Warden Eye. The sigil vanished, and the violet glow dissipated.

    At that moment, he returned to a state of calm.

    "Second Primordial Coffin,pletely conquered!" Beneath his feet, a new path formed, glowing with violet and azure hues.

    Yun Xiao''s spirit surged. Gazing afar, he saw the new Demon Continent settle down, transforming into a new world.

    "The old Demon Continent was a nightmare for the people of the Divine Continent, but now, it''s more like a zoo?" With this, Yun Xiao felt reassured. He had finally fulfilled his promise to Chen Xi. The affairs of the Divine and Demon Continents were at a close!

    Yun Xiao''s cold eyes then turned towards the entrance to the Eternal Sword Prison.

    "Nine Hells Conquest sh, the winner rules all?" A thought crossed his mind, and he said in a cold tone, "Everyone, the true cultivator of both sword and sigil has arrived!"

    Did they think a horde of strong foes could take him down? Yun Xiao acknowledged their strength! Sadly for them, he had 100 million Immortal Jades as his ace in the hole.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The little ck beast transformed into the ancient bronze coffin.

    Yun Xiao stepped inside! He intended to use this ancient bronze coffin to directly pass through the entrance and return to the Sword Ruins.

    "Hm?" Just as Yun Xiao stepped in, he suddenly felt a premonition.

    <em>BANG! </em>Behind him, the third Primordial Coffin unexpectedly stood upright.

    This was a ck Primordial Coffin! Itcked the icy coldness of Heaven Burial and the ferocity of Prison Warden, but it had an eerie and chilling aura all its own.

    Yun Xiao felt like it was watching him. This sent shivers down his spine.

    "May I ask..." he began softly. He had barely spoken two words. Then suddenly, for a brief moment, it seemed as if the lid of the ck Primordial Coffin vanished.

    "Eh?" Yun Xiao nced inside and was so startled his hair stood on end.

    Inside this ck coffiny a woman in a ck gown! Her long hair spread out, the ck gown opening like a dark peony blossom. Her pale hands were crossed over her abdomen, eyes tightly shut!

    "Senior sister..." In an instant, Yun Xiao felt as if the sky had copsed. Zhao Xuanran... how could she be lying in the third Primordial Coffin?

    "Impossible!" To her left and right, Yun Xiao saw a nine-colored sword and a nine-tiered pagoda! It was the Divine Cosmic Sword and Cosmic Pagoda?

    "Mortal attachments, but a fleeting illusion." The woman in the coffin suddenly parted her red lips, speaking ethereally. Her voice, like a haunting dream whisper, flowed into Yun Xiao''s ears.

    "Foolish child, this path leads to no return." With these words, she opened her eyes amidst the ck mist. In her left eye, reflected a dark, deste path to the underworld. In her right eye, blossomed a trail of bizarrely beautiful crimson flowers from the other shore.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The coffin lid reappeared, and the third Primordial Coffin toppled over with a thunderous crash. Inside the ancient bronze coffin, tranquility was restored.

    "A path of no return?" Yun Xiao suddenly shouted out loud.

    "What''s with the noise?" Blue Star asked, annoyed.

    "Didn''t you see it?" Yun Xiao''s voice trembled.

    "See what?"

    "The third Primordial Coffin!"

    Blue Star''s blue eyes appeared above the coffin lid, staring wide-eyed. "There are eight more Primordial Coffins, which one is the third?"

    "The ck one!"

    "It didn''t move," Blue Star and Red Moon said in unison.

    "..." Yun Xiao fell silent. "Let me out!" he suddenlymanded.

    "Are you crazy?"

    As soon as Blue Star opened the coffin lid, Yun Xiao swiftly moved with his Sovereign Sword, forcing them to transform into the little ck beast and follow.

    Before long, Yun Xiao arrived at the small abode in Azure Spirit!

    In the courtyard, the woman in the ck gown was leisurely nting flowers and tending to fish, her face the epitome of contentment.

    She stretchedzily, the picture of rxation.

    "Thank god..." Yun Xiao''s tense heart finally eased, and he let out a deep breath of relief. He didn''t disturb her, turning to leave and disappearing into the sky in the blink of an eye.

    The woman seemed to sense something. When she looked up at the sky, there were only clouds. She then smiled subtly.

 Chapter 315: Ruination Sword Array!

    Chapter 315: Ruination Sword Array!

    At the Eternal Sword Prison, right smack at the entrance of a passageway, stood the Sword Warden and his band of more than twenty Sword Ruins powerhouses. They were as icy as their sword intent, chilly enough to give you the shivers.

    Surrounded by encroaching shadows between the mountains, they were trapped tighter than a cork in a bottle.

    This forest was silent, steeped in a deadly stillness. Meanwhile, the uninvited guests from the other eight hells had eyes cold as a winter pond, faces as expressive as a brick wall, and even a hint of mockery ying at their lips.

    Just when the tension was at its peak, the entrance of the passageway started to shake.

    The would-be assants, over a hundred of them, narrowed their eyes, their sacred power whirring to life, murder in the air thick enough to cut with a knife.

    Some had already whipped out their Life Sigils and magic treasures. They had seen the portraits of the two Exiled Sword Immortals, Yun Xiao and Ling Chen, more times than they''d seen their own reflections.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Sword Cultivators started popping out of the passageway.

    "Sword Warden, we''re in hot water!" Du Zhongyuan, pale as a ghost, half-knelt before the Sword Warden.

    "What''s the trouble?" the Sword Warden asked, his voice grave.

    "Exile Ling got his hands on the Heavenly Land!" Du Zhongyuan spat out through clenched teeth.

    "Ling Chen?" The Sword Warden''s brow furrowed like a plowed field.

    "Yes! The whole Demon Continent crumbled, turning into a Life Sigil in Exile Ling''s hand. Its power was earth-shaking, unstoppable. We had to high-tail it out of there!" Du Zhongyuan''s voice shook like a leaf.

    The faces of the Sword Warden and the others turned stiff as a board.

    "Ling Chen got the Heavenly Land?"

    This news, blurted out in Du Zhongyuan''s panic, was overheard by many, and their expressions warped.

    "They said it was Yun Xiao who had the upper hand, but now Ling Chen''s turned the tables, from losing to winning?"

    "The legend of the Heavenly Land... it''s true?"

    Not just the Sword Ruins big shots, but also other heavy hitters from the eight hells alliance, including Qingzan and those from the Endless Netherworld, went as pale as if they''d seen a ghost.

    "We need to send word to the Endless Netherworld, get more manpower. Ling Chen can''t be allowed to return to the Sword Ruins alive!" Qingzan said urgently to an elder from the Cmity Seal Purgatory.

    The other powerhouses from the Nine Hells, looking as grim as a stormy sky, spread the news like wildfire.

    The murderous intent was unmistakable and stronger than ever!

    "If we take down Ling Chen, can we get our hands on the Heavenly Land?" one Inscription Cultivator asked.

    "As long as we control the core to the Heavenly Land, it''s more than possible," Qingzan replied, fire zing in her eyes.

    "I''ll go inform the Talisman Emperor!" an excited Inscription Cultivator eximed.

    "No need, he''s already here," Qingzan said, turning to look at a shadow-draped mountain, where light rippled like water.

    "It''s time for a little payback for the Talisman Prince..."

    "Time to take back the Cmity Seal Sword!"

    The Inscription Cultivators'' hatred, most of it, was heaped upon Ling Chen!

    "We thought Yun Xiao was the freak. Turns out Ling Chen was the real heaven defying monster after all!"

    Undercurrents of emotion roiled in their hearts.

    This news spread like wildfire to the Ku Family.

    Ku Xuan, Feng Buhui, and the others were over the moon!

    "Dad!" Ku Xuan turned abruptly, gripping his father''s arms, eyes burning with fervor.

    The Withered Bone Keeper, his face usually as crinkled and gloomy as a stormy sea, finally showed a hint of a smile. "Exile Ling,ughingst..."

    Their long-held frustrations were finally turning into jubtion, a chance to wipe the te clean! In their excitement, they quickly regainedposure, their gazes fiercely fixed on the swirling passageway.

    "The Heavenly Land matter will make Exile Ling their prime target!" Yun Xinghe said gravely.

    "Dad, no matter what, we have to ensure Exile Ling makes it out alive," Ku Xuan said through clenched teeth.

    "Is it possible to coborate with Qingzan? She must understand the importance of Exile Ling..." Shuang Jiang whispered.

    "She''s thest person who would." The Withered Bone Keeper slowly stood up, shaking his head.

    The Heavenly Land news was a blessing, but it also spelled a dire situation!

    "Should we head back to the passageway entrance to guard Exile Ling with our lives?" Feng Buhui asked.

    "With the Heavenly Land, Exile Ling must have some tricks up his sleeve. Together with us, we stand a chance, right?" Yun Xinghe spected.

    As he spoke, the passageway began to change.

    The Sword Warden and a group of Fate Ocean Realm Sword Cultivators who had just returned from the Demon Continent turned their swords and left without a backward nce!

    Their departure was unobstructed, of course.

    "They''re giving up on Yun Xiao just like that!"

    "Mu Tianjian, truly decisive..."

    "He''s smart. He knows Yun Xiao''s a lost cause now."

    "So, who''s left to save these two Exile Sword Immortals? The Withered Family? Ha!"

    Swords sang like a chorus of metallic sparrows, streaking back towards the Sword Ruins. Save for Yun Xiao, the Sword Warden''s nearly hundred men had retreated, safe and sound.

    "Mu Tianjian!" The Withered Bone Keeper''s face twisted with rage at the sight. With their departure, the Ku Family was left to hold the fort alone.

    "Let them go. Once Yun Xiao is out of the picture, if we can save Exile Ling, they''re all toast!" Ku Xuan growled menacingly.

    "And us...?"

    The Overseers all turned their eyes to the Withered Bone Keeper.

    "Move in closer," he ordered gruffly.

    From their current position, they''d be little help once Ling Chen emerged. So, with serious expressions, they quietly edged closer.

    "Madame, Mu Tianjian has pulled back, but your grandpa''s stepped up," someone said to Qingzan.

    "It doesn''t matter. People like him won''t learn their lesson until they''ve experienced some suffering firsthand," Qingzan replied nonchntly.

    "Understood!"

    The Inscription Cultivators nodded. The message was clear. When it was time to strike, they wouldn''t hold back.

    "So, only the two Exiled Sword Immortals have yet toe out?"

    "That''s right!"

    All eyes, sharp and intense, were glued to the vortex entrance.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>That vortex started stirring again!

    "Let''s go!" Ku Xuan and the others, eyes zing, strode forward.

    And from other directions, hundreds of formidable figures emerged from the shadows, their killing intent nearly suffocating the air!

    Suddenly, out of the vortex, burst a ck copper coffin.

    "What the hell!?"

    Everyone was momentarily stunned.

    Confused, but not for long, a slew of terrifying life sigils and magic treasures tore through the sky, shaking the earth as they hammered down on the coffin.

    "Son of a bitch, wait just a darn minute!" Blue Star gritted his teeth.

    "We''ll remember this!" Red Moon, taking the brunt of the attacks as the coffin''s body, chimed in.

    The barrage they were enduring, each st was strong enough to wipe out a Fate Ocean Realm powerhouse.

    If Yun Xiao weren''t lounging in that copper coffin, he''d have been torn to shreds a thousand times over!

    Most of these attackers were peak powerhouses from the Nine Hells, well above the Fate Ocean Realm.

    "Go!" Yun Xiao didn''t bother with them. He''d settle the score with these people sooner orter! He memorized every cold, cruel facehe was a man who kept his grudges, and he didn''t miss a single one.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ancient copper coffin burst through the encirclement, slipping into the void. The enemy was numerous, but they couldn''t stop it.

    In a blink, it was gone.

    "A bunch of good-for-nothings!" Yun Xiao''s voice echoed between heaven and earth.

    "It''s him!" Qingzan and the others recognized the voice instantly. But as soon as they did, he was gone.

    "Wow, that wasn''t so bad, was it?" Once free, Yun Xiao cracked a rxed smile.

    "Just this little scuffle must''ve cost at least 30 million Immortal Jades." Blue Star chuckled.

    Yun Xiao''s face twisted in annoyance.

    "Damn it, wait! Each of you owes me 300 hundred million!"

    Red Moon''s eyes widened. "You''re skinning them alive!"

    "This is just returning a drop of water with a gushing spring," Blue Star cackled.

    As they spoke, Yun Xiao had already caught up with the Sword Warden and the others. Stepping out of the coffin, he rode on his Sovereign Sword.

    "Exile Yun!" Nearly a hundred Sword Ruins Sword Cultivators, including the Sword Warden, suddenly turned around, their eyes bloodshot, half-kneeling on the ground.

    Before today, Yun Xiao and the Sword Warden were on equal footing. But now, knowing all about the Demon Continent, Mu Tianjian actually lowered himself to a half-kneel!

    That told you just how shaken he was inside.

    "Exile Yun, always with the cunning ns. Ling Chen''s spirit heads west, and you still manage another trick," the Sword Warden said with a wry smile.

    "Just another day for me." Yun Xiao nced back and, sure enough, not many were chasing him.

    "Those folks are still hanging around the entrance, waiting for Exile Ling to show up with the Heavenly Land... That thing sure is a ma," Mu Dalong said with a charming smile.

    If Yun Xiao hadn''t shouted and given himself away, those people would probably still be hot on his heels.

    "In that case, we can safely return to the Sword Ruins, activate the Ruination Sword Array, and keep Exile Yun safe. We don''t have to worry about the Nine Hells Conquest sh until then," Du Zhongyuan said.

    "Let them wait here," Yun Xiao said coldly, still peeved at the 30 million Immortal Jade loss. "Back to the Sword Ruins, I need to go into seclusion."

    "Seclusion?" The Sword Warden knew this had to be about the Heavenly Land.

    They were all looking forward to it, eyes sparkling with anticipation.

    <em>VROOOOM! </em>They soared on their Sovereign Swords, vanishing in a blink.

    Back at the vortex passageway, many were still lingering.

    "What''s the deal with Yun Xiao''s coffin?"

    "No idea..."

    This left them looking pretty foolish.

    "Only Ling Chen is left now."

    "If he''s got a coffin like that, we''re in real trouble."

    Their faces were grim as they stared at the passageway.

    Not long after, Qingzan called over a slightly younger Inscription Cultivator. "Fu Shan, go in and have a look. Come back immediately if there''s trouble."

    "Well, if I must," the young Inscription Cultivator said, visibly trembling with fear. Defying orders would lead to severe punishment, so he had no choice but to go in. Thankfully, the other hells soon sent their own people to join him.

    Seven brave souls ventured in! But it was like they vanished into thin air; once they went in, there was no sign of them.

    "They must be dead."

    "Is Ling Chen really that powerful?"

    The crowd''s faces grew even colder.

    "Or is it because of..."

    Some nced towards the receding figure of Yun Xiao, their expressions even grimmer.

    Back in the Sword Ruins

    "Exile Ling has obtained the Heavenly Land!"

    Before long, this explosive news spread like wildfire.

    The Sword Ruins were abuzz once more. Those who had been suppressed were now stirring, eager to reim their positions.

    "Did I hear right? Exile Yun is back in the Valley of Ruins?"

    "I wonder what he''s feeling now..."

    Inside and outside the Sword Ruins, the rumors swirled. The twists and turns of this struggle for supremacy had everyone on the edge of their seats.

    Yun Xiao, once the talk of the town, seemed a bit less formidable now.

    Suddenly, the long-quiet 999 Sword Peaks rumbled, and countless sword lights shot into the sky.

    "The Ruination Sword Array is about to be activated!"

 Chapter 316: Runes and Formations!

    Chapter 316: Runes and Formations!

    Spanning thousands of miles of hills and rivers, countless gigantic beams of sword light converged. Like a heavenly cloud of ten thousand swords, they crisscrossed and intertwined, weaving a dense of sword aura that carpeted the sky of the Sword Ruins.

    In an instant, this realm transformed into a fortress of swords!

    "I can''t believe it. The Ruination Sword Array has been activated. Did the Sword Warden really do this to protect Exile Yun?"

    Suddenly, a million Sword Cultivators in the Sword Ruins felt a tremor in their hearts.

    "Those unaware would think the Nine Hells were gearing up for war..."

    The Ruination Sword Array, designed for warfare, was to be activated only in times of dire peril, as instructed by the ancestors.

    With the array now active, many Sword Cultivators pondered its deeper implications.

    "Is the Sword Warden afraid of the other eight hells, or the return of Exile Ling?"

    Whispers and murmurs spread among the Sword Judges and disciples in the Sword Ruins.

    The activation of this array signaled impending turmoil, unsettling them.

    "Overseer Sikong." Dozens of Peak Masters and several Supreme Adjudicators gathered at Overseer Sikong''s residence.

    Overseer Sikong stood with his hands behind his back on a cloud tform, his gaze coldly fixed on the myriad swords in the sky.

    "The Sword Warden is afraid." Overseer Sikong chuckled, an unexpected smile breaking his stern demeanor. "Who would''ve thought? Exile Ling, you''ve hidden your cards well."

    "Feigning weakness to serve as a sword ve, seeking an opportunity to turn defeat into victory. After enduring hardship, he emerges a model for us all," the Supreme Adjudicators and Peak Mastersplimented.

    "Overseer Sikong, we all support Exile Ling. When he rises to power, please speak well of us on our behalf."

    Their intentions were clear.

    "Have you all heard?" Overseer Sikong asked with a smile.

    "Yes! We''ve heard Exile Ling has taken control of the Heavenly Land, using it as his Life Sigil. Now, he''s a master of both sword and sigil; he''s destined to be the light of humanity in the Nine Hells," they said with trembling voices.

    The concept of using the Heavenly Land as a Life Sigil was astounding.

    "Indeed, only he can unite the ways of sword and sigil, rallying the human forces to dominate this world," Overseer Sikong''s eyes gleamed with a hint of warmth.

    "Now, we hope Exile Ling can withstand the onught from the other eight hells and return to the Sword Ruins. Then, with the Heavenly Land Life Sigil, he can rise against all odds..."

    "Yun Xiao managed to return. So, with such a heaven-defying Life Sigil, Exile Ling must have prepared a path to victory."

    "Indeed, I long to see that life-defining sigil."

    Their voices mingled, each wordced with anticipation.

    Overseer Sikong raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "You''re quick on the uptake, a bunch of sharp cookies knowing which side to butter."

    "Yes," they agreed, with sheepish grins.

    "What should we do, Overseer Sikong?"

    "Head to the array''s focal point. Once Exile Ling and the former Sword Warden return, activate it to receive them!" Overseer Sikong instructed coolly.

    In the Valley of Ruins, Yun Xiao lounged in the Golden Springs. Shedding his upper garment, his chest adorned with golden droplets, bore the perfection of a sculpted masterpiece.

    With his long hair cascading down, his handsome face appeared ethereal, almost dreamlike. The nine-dragon mark on his forehead added an untouchable aura of mystery.

    "I wonder if they''ve realized that the so-called Heavenly Land has been whisked away by you, and Ling Chen is no more?" Blue Star jeered. He always found Yun Xiao''s scheming quite intriguing.

    For instance, Qingzan, who kept insisting she wasn''t interested in the Heavenly Land, stayed back when she heard Ling Chen had taken it.

    "Even if they''ve realized the truth, it''s futile. They lost the moment they hesitated and got tempted by the Heavenly Land," Yun Xiao said, eyes closed in tranquility. He knew there were suspicions. But with the activation of the Ruination Sword Array, suspicions were irrelevant.

    "In fact, their willingness to believe Du Zhongyuan''s words mainly stems from the notion that two Exiled Sword Immortals of simr caliber couldn''t possibly have one ying the other so ruthlessly." Yun Xiao chuckled.

    In his presence, Ling Chen was nothing but a pebble on the roadside from start to finish.

    "Next, they''ll have all the time in the world to truly grasp what transpired in the Demon Continent." Yun Xiao stood up from the Golden Springs. "Another breakthrough. Now, I''m in the Late Dao Heart Realm."

    While not yet ready to confront the peak powerhouses of the Nine Hells, it would be impossible for anyone in the Fate Ocean Realm to kill him.

    Without a stitch on him, the water from the Golden Springs cascaded down his muscr contours.

    "Fae..." Mu Xiaolong identally stumbled in, catching this scene. She shrieked, hastily covering her eyes... though her fingers were parted wide.

    "What a frightening sight!" Mu Xiaolong blushed profoundly, her worldview shaken to its core.

    "What''s the matter?" Yun Xiao nonchntly donned a new white robe. Only he could make such simple and humble attire exude the elegance of a celestial robe.

    "Err Uhm Oh! Du Zhongyuan requests an audience!" Mu Xiaolong stammered.

    "Let him in."

    "Yes, yes, yes..." Mu Xiaolong stuck out her tongue and darted out, her face flushed with excitement. Inwardly, she whispered, "Mom, I''ve made it! I''ve seen Fae in all his glory!"

    Yun Xiao adjusted his attire and settled down in the pavilion.

    Shortly after, Du Zhongyuan arrived with respectful reverence, his expression slightly bemused.

    "What''s on your mind?" asked Yun Xiao.

    "Some unteachable folks in the Sword Ruins are hyping up a dead man again." Du Zhongyuan chuckled.

    Yun Xiao smiled wryly. He didn''t dwell on the matter, instead gesturing for Du Zhongyuan to sit and said, "Bring it out."

    "Yes." Du Zhongyuan reached into his robe and brought out over thirty Bags of Holding,ying them before Yun Xiao. With a pang of loss, he said, "I''ve brought you all the suitable herbs and spiritual medicines from the Sword Ruins to be Rune Spirit Ink."

    "Mhm." Yun Xiao nodded. He picked up a Bag of Holding and peeked inside. A fragrant aroma wafted out, revealing numerous flowers, trees, and fruits infused with celestial energyrenowned spiritual items of the Nine Hells.

    "These herbs and spiritual medicines are softer and can be ground into spiritual liquids," Du Zhongyuan exined.

    "Will taking all these materials affect your alchemists in concocting pills?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    These herbs were also primary ingredients for pills.

    "Well... there will definitely be an impact. After all, this is most of the Sword Ruins'' stock. Many Sword Judges and disciples rely heavily on these pills..."

    After Du Zhongyuan finished speaking, a hint of relief crossed his mind. He had half expected Yun Xiao to return some of the spiritual herbs to him. Instead, Yun Xiao simply took the Bags of Holding, saying, "No worries, I''ll repay you more in the future."

    With that, Yun Xiao summoned the Prison Warden Sigil, holding it in his hand.

    "Rune Pen, please." Yun Xiao extended his hand.

    Du Zhongyuan promptly ced a small, exquisitely crafted white pen in Yun Xiao''s hand, clearly a sophisticated magical instrument.

    "Inscription manual," Yun Xiao requested next.

    "Oh?" Du Zhongyuan was slightly surprised as he took out a few thick books, exining, "We in the Sword Ruins have limited material on inscription manuals, but it should suffice for now. Take your time with them... We don''t have Inscription Cultivators in the Sword Ruins, so I''m not sure how to get you started..."

    While Du Zhongyuan was still speaking, Yun Xiao had already begun flipping through the manual, his eyes intently scanning the pages. His flipping speed increased rapidly, eventually matching the speed of a gambler blowing through their money.

    "It goes like this..." Du Zhongyuan recalled the basics of inscription cultivation. "The Runes on a Life Sigil are essentially drawn by an Inscription Cultivator using the Rune Pen dipped in Rune Spirit Ink, ground from spiritual herbs and medicines, following various methods outlined in an inscription manual. The more Runes, the stronger and more functional the Life Sigil."

    As Du Zhongyuan exined this, Yun Xiao ced a Bag of Holding before him, instructing, "Then help me grind this into Rune Spirit Ink."

    "I''ll do it!" Mu Xiaolong volunteered, eagerly stepping forward.

    "Fine." Yun Xiao nodded, continuing to read.

    Grinding the Rune Spirit Ink also required magical tools, namely a pestle and a mortar, which Du Zhongyuan had asionally used in his alchemy.

    So there was Mu Xiaolong, her little hands gripping the golden pestle, her cheeks flushed as she pounded away, her mind likely wandering through a world of its own.

    Du Zhongyuan, having a moment of leisure, continued, "These inscription manuals are the culmination of the trials and experiments of Inscription Cultivator ancestors, detailing miniature inscription formation, each with a specific function. Take the Heavenly Fire Formation, for instance. It consists of 18 Runes. If drawn on a Life Sigil, it greatly enhances the sigil''s affinity with fire spells... And now, with the evolution of Inscription Cultivation, there are hundreds of millions of these miniature formations, some consisting of just a few Runes, and others thousands!"

    "So, the inscription Runes on a Life Sigil aren''t just about quantity, but also about content?" Yun Xiao asked, flipping through the manual.

    "Exactly! The content is crucial! It''s different from our Sword Soul and Sword Aura. Their Runes are more akin to a blend of Sword Aura and Sword Ring, with more variations. Since each Inscription Cultivator can only inscribe their own Life Sigil, it really tests their talent in formations," Du Zhongyuan said earnestly.

    "Formation talent?"

    "Yes. Inscription Cultivators excel at drawing formations because Life Sigils and formations are one and the same. Like our Ruination Sword Array, it''s formed by countless miniature runic formations etched on mountains, sword peaks, and rivers.

    "In essence, inscription Runes form miniature formations, which can either make a Life Sigil for personal battle or set up a grand immovable formation. The former is forbat, thetter for monumental undertakings... That''s why we Sword Cultivators may not understand Life Sigils, but we can''t afford to be ignorant of formations," Du Zhongyuan exined.

    "Can all these miniature formations be inscribed on a Life Sigil?" Yun Xiao looked up.

    "Of course not, every Life Sigil has its innate attribute. For instance, carving water attributes on a fire-attributed sigil is a death wish," Du Zhongyuan grinned. "Remember Fu Longxiang''s Myriad Manifestations Sigil? Its power lies in its versatility, capable of inscribing any miniature formation, offering immense growth potential!"

    "Mhm." Yun Xiao nodded, just as he finished reading thest manual on miniature formations.

    "Mu Xiaolong, hand me the Rune Spirit Ink," Yun Xiao said.

    "Yes!" Mu Xiaolong carefully brought the mortar to Yun Xiao.

    With the Prison Warden Sigil in one hand and the Rune Pen dipped in Rune Spirit Ink in the other, Yun Xiao began to draw.

    "W-wait, wait! What are you doing!?" Du Zhongyuan asked in bewilderment.

    "Drawing Runes," Yun Xiao replied.

    "But you''re just starting out. I doubt you understand the basic principles, don''t mess up... Ah?" Before Du Zhongyuan could finish, Yun Xiao''s pen flowed like a dragon and snake. A miniature formation with 99 Runes had already taken shape on the Prison Warden Sigil.

    "Mu Xiaolong, grind all of these herbs," Yun Xiao directed, pushing the herbs toward her.

    "Yes, yes, yes!" Mu Xiaolong nodded excitedly.

    Du Zhongyuan, feeling a twitch in his gut, looked to the heavens and muttered, "What in the world is this..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 317: Ill Devote Myself to the Sword Ruins!

    Chapter 317: I''ll Devote Myself to the Sword Ruins!

    In the heart of the Sword Ruins, nestled in a valley,y a circrke. This serene body of water was alive with countless sword-shaped symbols, darting about like fish in an ocean of des. It seemed as though theke itself was a vast sea of swords.

    Mist rose from theke''s surface, intertwining with the clouds above, forming a majestic column of mist that channeled the ethereal aura of Immortals into the heavens. This pir of mist was the backbone of the mighty Ruination Sword Array, drawing its power from theke.

    Peering into the depths, one could see a treasure trove of Spirit Stones, Saint Stones, and even precious Immortal Jades! These stones, brimming with the essence of Immortals, were the lifeline of any magic array. While the array could sustain itself on the natural aura of the world, defeating formidable foes and maintaining the array was a costly affaira truly extravagant expenditure!

    This was why the inhabitants of the Sword Ruins harbored doubts about activating the Ruination Sword Array. The mines of the Eternal Sword Prison were finite, and the excessive spending was draining the sect''s resources, a true burden on the people.

    "The more desperately the Sword Warden activates the Ruination Sword Array, the more panicked he must be!"

    This was the rumor circting around.

    At that moment, a group of figures approached theke, their faces shrouded in mystery, murmuring amongst themselves.

    We''ve reached one of the nodes of the array.

    They looked up at the magnificent scene before them, their emotions a mix of awe and unease.

    Overseer Sikong, if we get too close to the node and are discovered, wont the Sword Warden make trouble for us? a Peak Master asked nervously.

    Rx. With 99 nodes to manage, he cant possibly attend to all of them. And even if he does discover us, so what? We are all Peak Masters or above. Its our duty to maintain the nodes and replenish their energy during the operation of the Ruination Sword Array, Overseer Sikong reassured, while the other Supreme Adjudicators nodded in agreement.

    The Sword Warden is focused on controlling the heart of the array, driving the 99 nodes. He wont appear here, Overseer Sikong stated calmly.

    Yes, Overseer, the group responded, their tension easing.

    Once the former Sword Warden returns with Exile Ling, well sever the energy supply to this node, allowing them to breach the smaller array and enter, Overseer Sikong dered coldly.

    The so-called energy source of the array was its power supply, drawing from the natural aura of the world, Saint Stones, and Immortal Jades.

    An array was difficult to attack from the outside but easily sabotaged from within. This underscored the importance of internal stability.

    Even the mightiest of constructs could crumble from within, and the Eternal Sword Prison, besieged on all sides, was no exception.

    Around a hundred people gathered, their presence at this location a bold deration of their allegiance. They were betting on a brighter future, vying for a favorable position in the unfolding drama.

    You have made the wisest choice of your lives by aligning with Exile Ling, especially since he''ll eventually control the Nine Hells with the Heavenly Land, Overseer Sikong proimed solemnly.

    Thank you for your guidance, Overseer Sikong, the crowd responded with a bow.

    Well appreciated, Overseer Sikong replied.

    Suddenly, the calm waters of theke at the node of the array rippled. Astonishingly, figures began to emerge from the water,pletely dry, a testament to their profound cultivation. Among them, the youngest, other than the white-d youth at the center, was a voluptuous mermaid in a golden gownMu Dalong.

    There were over twenty Overseers! The pinnacle Sword Cultivators of the Sword Ruins rallied around Yun Xiao, gazing icily at the crowd.

    Exile Yun... Overseer Sikong and the others trembled visibly, their faces draining of color.

    How did they appear here? This question, like a lethal de, pierced the hearts of those with treacherous intentions.

    Greetings, Exile Yun! Overseer Sikong was the first to react, kneeling in a sweat. I was just leading the core members of the Sword Ruins in maintaining the array''s node, and I didnt expect

    Theres no need for exnations, Yun Xiao interrupted.

    Yes, sir!

    After another nce at the crowd, Yun Xiao turned to Mu Dalong and said, Keep Sikong, eliminate the rest.

    Eliminate them all? Mu Dalong gasped in shock.

    These people were from major families of the Sword Ruins. To remove one was to stir the mud that anchored them. Even the Sword Warden, without justification, would face scrutiny for recklessly ying these Sword Ruins elites, let alone massacring a group.

    Quickly, Yun Xiao urged.

    Yes, sir! Mu Dalong, trembling with fear, dared not utter another word.

    The older Overseers, more decisive than Mu Dalong, sprang into action at Yun Xiao''smand. Their swords, radiating with Sword Aura of over 5,000yers, lit up the valley, apanied by a chorus of screams and cries.

    Twenty Overseers against a hundred Peak Masters and Supreme Adjudicators, escape was a luxury the other side couldn''t afford. Yun Xiao watched the scene, his expression unchanging, as chaos unfolded before him.

    usations and pleas for mercy filled the air.

    "What right do you have to kill?"

    "I have served the Sword Ruins!"

    "Yun Xiao, you''re a tyrant, a rebel against order, you will face divine retribution!"

    But their cries were futile. On Yun Xiao''s side, no one bothered to respond. The Overseers, each a pinnacle warrior of the Nine Hells, were swift and merciless.

    In a blink, nearly a hundred paid the ultimate price for their <em>smart</em> choice. As thest Supreme Adjudicator fell, only Overseer Sikong remained, kneeling, trembling, his face pale and tears and snot streaming down his face. The swords of his fallenrades seemed to pierce his very soul.

    "All gone..." With these, and those lost in the Demon Continent, the middle generation of the Ku Family was nearly wiped out. Not one had escaped, and few young ones were left of note.

    "Now, only you old troublemakers are left," Yun Xiao''s voice, chilling and hellish, approached Overseer Sikong.

    "Please, Exile Yun, show mercy!" Overseer Sikong pleaded, his voice trembling.

    "You beg for mercy so soon? I thought you might question me for killing without reason," Yun Xiao said, now standing just a few feet away from Overseer Sikong, close enough for an instant kill.

    But at the same moment, over twenty surging Sword Souls transformed into Flying Swords, aiming at Overseer Sikong''s head, heart, and throatall his vital points. He knew a single move would mean his end.

    "Exile Yun, I was wrong! Please, give me another chance..." Overseer Sikong begged, his voice filled with despair.

    "Last time, during the incident with the Heavenly Mirror, I gave you a chance. Sadly, you squandered it," Yun Xiao said with a light chuckle.

    "No, no! This time I''ll turn over a new leaf, I swear it! I can even help you eliminate Exile Ling and the Ku Family," Overseer Sikong insisted vehemently.

    "A vow? Sure," Yun Xiao gestured towards his forehead. "But, youll have to swear to my <em>eye</em> here."

    "What is that?" Overseer Sikong looked up, his face trembling as he saw the dragon-patterned totem, feeling an instinctive fear. He hadn''t yet seen the <em>eye</em> Yun Xiao mentioned, but he already had an ominous premonition.

    "Du Zhongyuan, bring the Bitter Cicada Pill," Yun Xiao called, without turning, to a middle-aged schr approaching with a small jog.

    The man named Du Zhongyuan handed over a ck jade bottle, from which a sinister, snakelike ck mist coiled. "Exile Yun, this is a Mid Silva grade medicinal pill. Please be cautious," he advised, looking up at Yun Xiao with deep reverence, as if beholding an Immortal from the heavens.

    "What are you nning to do with the Bitter Cicada Pill?" Overseer Sikong asked in panic, obviously terrified by the pill.

    "Open his mouth," Yun Xiao ordered, ignoring Overseer Sikongs pleas. Several other Overseers immediately stepped forward, some holding him down while others pried open his clenched jaw.

    Overseer Sikong, eyes fixed on Yun Xiao, used all his strength to plead, "Please, I can serve you, don''t use the Bitter Cicada Pill!"

    But before he could finish, Yun Xiao stuffed the dark, venomous-looking pill into his mouth.

    "No! Don''t! Ahh!" Overseer Sikong''s screams echoed as the pill went down, his face contorting in agony as if plunging into hell.

    "Yun Xiao!" he snarled, ring malevolently. "Your indiscriminate killing only shows your fear of Exile Ling. You''ve lost your conflict with him utterly! When Exile Ling returns with the Heavenly Land Sigil, it will be your doom!"

    "The Heavenly Land Sigil?" Yun Xiao touched his forehead, and it seemed as if a nine-headed divine dragon emerged, transforming into a terrifying violet sigil. This sigil, adorned with a nine-headed Prison Warden Dao Dragon and countless Runes forming miniature formations, made it appear like a vast violet expanse.

    "Overseer Sikong, is this the Heavenly Land Sigil you were talking about?" Yun Xiao asked with a slight smile.

    Overseer Sikong felt as if struck by lightning, his soul seemingly sted apart. He trembled, staring dumbfounded at the dragon-shaped Life Sigil, his world crumbling.

    "Ling... Exile Ling?" he stammered, each word heavy with heartbreak.

    "He met his end at my hands. Died a rather miserable death, too bad you didnt see it yourself," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    Overseer Sikong''s face contorted in shock and disbelief, his eyes bulging as he stared at Yun Xiao.

    "Overseer Sikong, the rumor about Ling Chen obtaining the Heavenly Land was spread by me. Even in death, he served to protect me. Consider it his repayment," Du Zhongyuan chimed in from the sidelines.

    "I, I..." Overseer Sikong''s world had copsed.

    Amidst the mocking nces of his twenty-plus formerrades, he was reduced to a mere clown. Their silence andck of agitation, their earlymitment to their chosen side, showed that the wise were indeed in the majority.

    "What do you n to use me for now?" Overseer Sikong asked Yun Xiao in despair, unable toprehend. How could Ling Chen in his past life have incurred such a fate, to encounter such a perfect and terrifying adversary?

    "I''ll use you as bait to reel in the disobedient fish and cleanse my pond," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Impossible!" Knowing death was imminent, Overseer Sikong certainly didnt want to be further exploited by Yun Xiao.

    Tragically, the effects of the Bitter Cicada Pill had begun to take hold. He plunged into a sea of agony, his memories fading, his will crumbling, overwhelmed by pain as if ensnared in a nightmare.

    Even Yun Xiao before him morphed into a devil with a frightening face and ferocious fangs.

 Chapter 318: Return of the Deceased!

    Chapter 318: Return of the Deceased!

    Overseer Sikong couldn''t remember thest time he had felt such terror. Pale as a ghost, he trembled uncontrobly, tears and snot streaming down his face, struggling for breath.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Suddenly, he saw the forehead of the ghastly figure before him split open, revealing a violet eye!

    In that violet eye, a dragon coiled menacingly. It loomedrger andrger before Overseer Sikong, turning into a colossal eye that blotted out the sun. Overseer Sikong, inparison, seemed as insignificant as a mouse, trembling and shrinking into a ball.

    "Sikong..." The violet eye pressed down upon his head, tendrils of violet smoke transforming into dragons, seeping into Sikong''s mind, dyeing his brain a deep violet. "Contribute your life to me, and your dreary existence will finally have worth."

    As this nightmarish voice echoed in Overseer Sikong''s ears, his eyes slowly turned violet.

    Time seemed to fly, yet an hour had passed in the blink of an eye.

    The onlookers could only see Overseer Sikong motionless, his face a picture of confusion and terror. Yun Xiao''s vertical eye in his brow had transfixed Overseer Sikong''s gaze, with dragon-shaped violet mist continually flowing into Overseer Sikong''s eyes.

    As time slipped away, Overseer Sikong''s trembling body gradually calmed.

    "Phew." Yun Xiao took a deep breath, closed the Prison Warden Eye, and took a moment to recuperate, looking somewhat weary.

    Overseer Sikong, on the other hand, appeared as if nothing had happened. Yet, with solemn reverence, he knelt deeply before Yun Xiao.

    "No need to restrain him any longer," Yun Xiao said.

    "Huh?" Mu Dalong asked in confusion, "Exile Yun, what''s this about?"

    "His soul is now under mymand," dered Yun Xiao.

    Such was the power of the ''Source Soul'' of the Cmity Seal Purgatory!

    Though it took an hour, it was, after all, Sikong, who was stronger than those in the Fate Ocean Realm.

    "To witness such an unimaginable ability in reality is truly staggering," Mu Dalong observed, her gaze fixed on Yun Xiao. Though she was his elder, she was now a fan, filled with nothing but admiration, just like her daughter.

    "It was quite a task. Mainly, it was the Bitter Cicada Pill that confused his mind. Without it, I couldn''t have captured his soul," Yun Xiao exined, turning to Du Zhongyuan, "Do you have any more of those pills?"

    Du Zhongyuan replied guiltily, "Exile Yun, that special pill came from my master. Ick the skill to make them myself."

    "Next time you see him, ask him for a few more on my behalf," Yun Xiao said.

    "I''ll try my best," Du Zhongyuan replied, his face flushed with embarrassment. He couldn''t guarantee sess, clearly because the stance of the Eternal Sword Prison and the Exiled Sword Immortal''s position might not align.

    Everyone had to battle for their position and interests!

    "What about this old coot Sikong?" Mu Dalong inquired.

    As her words fell, Overseer Sikong stood up and silently departed.

    "Just like that, he''s gone?" Du Zhongyuan asked, dumbfounded.

    "How can you fish without bait?" Several other Overseers chuckled. They didn''t speak much, but their gazes towards Yun Xiao were warm from start to finish.

    "Tell your dad to get ready, announce to the entire Sword Ruins, it''s time to cast the!" After saying this, Yun Xiao headed towards the Exile Pce.

    Soon after, he arrived there. Unexpectedly, at the entrance of the Exile Pce, a young man in white was still kneeling.

    Inside, a woman, lifeless as a walking corpse, huddled in a corner.

    "Bai Wuque? Why are you still here?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Exile Yun, they... they said Exile Ling has risen again and told me to wait here," Bai Wuque replied.

    "Was your mother also coerced toe here?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Not really coerced, it''s our duty..." Bai Wuque said, looking lost.

    Yun Xiao knew just by looking at him that he had been worn down by reality, both mother and son numb to the world. No matter where they went, they were greeted with odd looks, even family and friends would gossip about them.

    "You can go now," Yun Xiao said.

    <em>THUD! </em>Bai Wuque knelt down, shaking his head, refusing to move. Clearly, he dared not leave.

    Inside the Exile Pce, Bai Qingxue shrank back, also too afraid to leave.

    "Ling Chen is dead," Yun Xiao announced.

    Bai Wuque looked up nkly, then shook his head again, still not daring to move.

    "The truths of this world, a mix of illusion and reality, only the strong can break through the mist. Once at the bottom, fog surrounds you everywhere, leaving you clueless about whom to trust," Yun Xiao mused reflectively.

    So, even when he dered Ling Chen dead, they dared not believe it.

    "Human nature is like countless walls. The weak are within the walls, the strong atop them. Those within are trapped by human nature, hitting walls at every turn, only listening to the strong atop describe the world.

    "And so, in this world, there is no ultimate truth, only the decree of the strong."

    Such was the world. This too would fuel the growth of his Worldly Dao Heart.

    At the Eternal Sword Prison, near the vortex passage.

    After Yun Xiao''s departure, the ce became even more like fire and water.

    Near the vortex passage, a group of Inscription Cultivators had taken position, while the Withered Bone Keeper and others could only linger a bit further away.

    Even they were ensnared in the deadly circle of the eight hells.

    The shadows of humans, devils, and demons surged all around!

    Everyone''s eyes were still fixed on that vortex entrance.

    After news broke out that Ling Chen had obtained the Heavenly Land, many of the other hells also started to covet it.

    Just then, someone arrived from the direction of the Sword Ruins.

    "Overseer Sikong?" Ku Xuan quickly stopped him.

    "I have urgent news for the old Sword Warden," Overseer Sikong said, suppressing the excitement in his heart.

    "Come." Ku Xuan led him to the Withered Bone Keeper, who sat desated.

    Eight powerful figures from the Sword Ruins gathered together.

    Overseer Sikong spoke in a hushed tone, "Old Sword Warden, I have great news."

    "Speak," the Withered Bone Keeper opened his murky, gray eyes.

    "Exile Ling has returned to the Sword Ruins!" Overseer Sikong announced.

    "What?" Hearing this, the other seven were startled, with several breathing a sigh of relief.

    "How did he return?" the Withered Bone Keeper asked.

    "Have you forgotten? Exile Ling is a master of the Space Dao. By seizing the Heavenly Land, he effectively controls a part of the Nine Hells. Why would he need to exit through here?" Overseer Sikong said excitedly.

    "Excellent!" Ku Xuan''s tense heart finally rxed, a cold smile spreading across his face.

    "Exile Ling is now hiding in the Sword Ruins. Let me inform everyone to return!" Overseer Sikong dered.

    "Return?" Ku Xuan clenched his teeth, "He should know, with the whole Heavenly Mirror affair, going back now isn''t in our favor. If Mu Tianjian gets wind of it, with the Ruination Sword Array in his hands, our situation could get sticky."

    Overseer Sikong grinned slyly, casting a nce at Qingzan before whispering, "Have we forgotten? Though we lost the Heavenly Mirror, Exile Ling seized the mightier Cmity Seal Sword! He specifically told me to ry that you two needn''t worry about the feelings of the Inscription Cultivators. We Sword Cultivators have our own path to heaven."

    The two he referred to were the Withered Bone Keeper and Ku Xuan, the grandfather and father of Qingzan.

    "The Cmity Seal Sword has always been a shadow over us Sword Cultivators. With Exile Ling wielding this sword, if we overlook our rtionship with the Cmity Seal Purgatory, it indeed counts as a great feat for the Sword Ruins. Enough to make up for the Heavenly Mirror mishap," Feng Buhui murmured.

    He wanted to return to the Sword Ruins! Otherwise, stranded outside, what would be of their families back in the Ruins?

    Their eyes collectively turned to the Withered Bone Keeper.

    When it came to the Cmity Seal Sword, the decisiony with him!

    Had he and Qingzan had a falling out?

    In truth, with Qingzan now upying the vortex passage, her cold eyes alongside a group of Inscription Cultivators said it all.

    "Sikong," the Withered Bone Keeper trembled as he raised his head, his voice weak, "How is Exile Ling faring?"

    "The Heavenly Land Sigil is beyond belief! The public opinion in the Sword Ruins has shifted again, back in favor of Exile Ling! Many Peak Masters and Supreme Adjudicators are seeking me out to pledge their allegiance," Overseer Sikong said excitedly.

    "Why isn''t Exile Ling waiting outside the Sword Ruins, for us to return together?" the Withered Bone Keeper inquired further.

    "I''m not sure about that, perhaps because the Nine Hells Conquest sh is imminent, and he''s in a hurry to enhance his strength?... Oh! I forgot to mention, I saw with my own eyes Exile Ling inscribing Runes on the Heavenly Land Sigil. His speed was astonishing!

    "He told me he needs a lot of Rune Spirit Ink and inscription manuals, but I''m not qualified to obtain them. I think Exile Ling would really benefit from the old Sword Warden''s return to support him and gather resources. With his current talent, oveing Yun Xiao again shouldn''t be a problem," Overseer Sikong remarked admiringly.

    "Did you manage to infiltrate one of the array''s cores?" the Withered Bone Keeper asked.

    "All set! We''re ready to wee the old Sword Warden''s return and take charge!" Overseer Sikong cast a mocking nce at the powerhouses of the other eight hells and chuckled. "As for these blockheads, let them keep waiting for the rabbit at the tree stump."

    "Dad! Stop dawdling. The Heavenly Land is Exile Ling''s biggest opportunity to turn defeat into victory. We need to boost the killing power of his Life Sigil as soon as possible," Ku Xuan urged.

    The other Overseers were also concerned about their descendants in the Ruins.

    Just then, Qingzan indeed showed up.

    "What do you want to say?" the Withered Bone Keeper asked, staring at her.

    "Just a reminder, the folks from the Celestial Abyss are also eyeing the Exiled Sword Immortals. They have even worse tempers. If you don''t want to die, get out now," Qingzan said coldly.

    The people of the Sword Ruins fell silent.

    "Grandpa, turning back is the correct decision. There''s still a chance for the Sword Cultivators," Qingzan said, arms crossed. "Let me leave you with this. Don''t be greedy in your old age."

    "Hehehe..." The Withered Bone Keeper shook his head with a bitter smile, his eyes filled with the weight of years.

    "Let''s go." He suddenly turned decisively, to Qingzan''s surprise.

    She was stunned. They were actually leaving?

    Just like that, including Overseer Sikong, the eight of them on their Sovereign Swords, sped towards the Sword Ruins.

    In that turning moment, a mad gleam shed in the Withered Bone Keeper''s eyes.

    Ku Xuan coldly said, "Dad! This time, we must reim everything we lost!"

    "With Exile Ling, there''s absolutely no problem!" Overseer Sikong''s eyes shimmered with endless admiration. In his eyes, there was a violet shadow, a nine-headed dragon. It was also the mark of a certain young man in white!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 319: Your Sins Are Unforgivable!

    Chapter 319: Your Sins Are Unforgivable!

    At this moment, the 999 Sword Peaks of the Sword Ruins were enveloped in thick, heavy clouds. Vast swaths of droplets converged into sword energy, forming an ocean of swords, entwining around the sect.

    Such a sight was indeed spectacr!

    Countless Sword Cultivators from the Eternal Sword Prison gazed upon the Ruination Sword Array, their hearts filled with reverence and awe.

    News of Ling Chen''s audacious conquest of the Heavenly Land had spread throughout the Eternal Sword Prison! Even more spectacr was that he did all this while being pressured by the forces of the other eight hells!

    For the average Sword Cultivator, this was not only a crushing suppression but also a stirring call to arms!

    The mes of war had yet to reach themon folk, so they chose to wait and see. Once Ling Chen survived this deadly trial and truly rose to power, they would undoubtedly support him to the end.

    In this tense atmosphere, a group of eight top-tier Sword Cultivators returned to the Sword Ruins aboard their Sovereign Swords, moving quietly.

    "We''ve made a gap in the array here. Please proceed," Overseer Sikong said, his eyes gleaming with excitement, flying at the forefront.

    Ahead of them, the clouds and mist dipped inwards, revealing a white gap in the Ruination Sword Array.

    "Down we go!" the Withered Bone Keepermanded, his gaze icy.

    Eight silhouettes of sword light plunged into the gap, speeding along.

    With an <em>inside man</em> leading the way, it was easy for outsiders to enter this great protective array.

    In a blink, they were already traversing the vastnds of the Sword Ruins.

    "Exile Ling is hidden in the Exile Pce, just waiting for your support to let that Heavenly Land Sigil ascend to greatness," Overseer Sikong said excitedly.

    "Let''s first pay a visit to Exile Ling," the Withered Bone Keeper spoke softly. He gave a signal, and the group didn''t make a grand entrance but instead quietly approached the Exile Pce.

    Passing by the Immortal Sword Rankings venue, the group saw thousands of Sword Cultivators practicing and sparring.

    The Withered Bone Keeper paused momentarily to watch.

    "Dad, it seems these kids also think Exile Ling has the upper hand," said Ku Xuan, a slight smile on his lips.

    "Mhm." The Withered Bone Keeper nodded, feeling somewhat pleased.

    "Has the news about the Cmity Seal Sword spread this far?" Feng Buhui had overheard some kids discussing it.

    "This sword is indeed a nightmare for us Sword Cultivators! Its significance far outweighs that of the Heavenly Mirror. It was our use of this relic that allowed Exile Ling to seize the Cmity Seal Sword. I''d like to see who dares to make a fuss over the Heavenly Mirror now." Overseer Sikong chuckled.

    "Let''s go." The Withered Bone Keeper was just gauging the public sentiment in the Sword Ruins.

    "Everyone understands the significance of the Heavenly Land. That makes things much easier!" Ku Xuan clenched his teeth, "If Exile Ling can avenge himself and y Yun Xiao, even Mu Tianjian will waver... The Sword Relic, we''ll soon have it in our grasp."

    At the mention of the Sword Relic, a glint of obsession shed in the eyes of the Withered Bone Keeper.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>No longer concealing their presence, these eight powerhouses of the Sword Ruins soared towards the Exile Pce on their Sovereign Swords!

    "Who is that?"

    Many young Sword Cultivators were startled.

    "It''s the Withered Bone Keeper!"

    "And several other Overseers of the Sword Ruins..."

    "They''re back, does that mean Exile Ling has returned safely?!"

    The crowd erupted in excitement.

    If Ling Chen had met with misfortune, the Withered Bone Keeper, having erred with the Heavenly Mirror, would not dare to return.

    Realizing this, many Sword Cultivators sensed that something big was about to happen. Quietly, they mounted their Sovereign Swords and followed the Withered Bone Keeper towards the Exile Pce.

    Soon, the explosive news spread.

    "Exile Ling has returned safely after ying the powerhouses of the eight hells. He will face off against Yun Xiao in another battle to determine whos superior!"

    "Let''s hurry to the Exile Pce to see!"

    As the news passed from mouth to mouth, the probability of sudden changes grew, slowly evolving into a peak showdown between the two Exile Sword Immortals at the Exile Pce.

    "Does that mean we''ll get to see the Heavenly Land Sigil with our own eyes?"

    Countless disciples and Sword Judges, thinking of this, lit up with excitement and hurried towards the Exile Pce, hearts pounding.

    "After the finals of the Immortal Sword Rankings, where Exile Ling lost, our side waspletely defeated, clinging to a slim hope of survival... But today, whether in terms of public sentiment, the banner we rally under, or the power of the Exiled Sword Immortal himself, we have finally regained the upper hand..." Ku Xuan''s eyes reddened slightly.

    The feeling of turning defeat into victory, of enduring hardships for a triumphanteback, was truly exhrating.

    With their return, a storm swept through the Sword Ruins, reigniting the fervor that had quieted for a day or two!

    In no time at all, the Withered Bone Keeper and hispanions arrived at the front of the Exile Pce!

    "Bai Wuque?"

    When the group saw the pale-faced youth still kneeling in front of the Exile Pce, their only doubt vanishedpletely!

    "Does that mean Bai Qingxue is being favored inside? Our Exile Ling, despite enduring countless tribtions, remains a hero true to himself!" Ku Xuan couldn''t help but smile wryly.

    Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, Shuang Jiang, Overseer Sikong, and others also chuckled along.

    Behind them, many Sword Cultivators had followed, hovering at a distance on their Sovereign Swords.

    They whispered among themselves, eagerly anticipating Ling Chen''s appearance.

    And the Withered Bone Keeper, his gaze solemn and chilling, stared at the Exile Pce. "Once we meet Exile Ling, a deadly battle might ensue. This fight will decide the future of the Sword Ruins! Be on your guard," he said.

    "Dad, what about Mu Tianjian?" Ku Xuan asked in a cold voice.

    "I gave him a future, but he turned into an ungrateful wretch. If he dares to disregard me, his own master, again don''t me me for being ruthless... The Sword Ruins must rise from the Nine Hells, united as one! And that unity can only be under Exile Ling!" With these words, the Withered Bone Keeper''s gaze turned fiery as he looked towards the Exile Pce.

    His hunched figure approached the pce gates with utmost reverence.

    Upon reaching the gates, he sank to his knees, deeply bowing, and said in the heaviest of tones, "I, Ku Gu, have beente in my duty to serve. Forgive me, Exile Ling!"

    His voice wasn''t loud, but it carried a weight that felt like a heavy hammer on everyone''s hearts!

    For a moment, many Sword Cultivators who hade to watch the excitement felt a sense of solemnity and couldn''t help but feel a surge of blood stirring in their veins.

    "We too have beente in our duty to serve. Please, forgive us!" Ku Xuan and the other Overseers all knelt down, their eyes burning with intense fire.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, the doors of the Exile Pce began to tremble. Then, slowly, the gates opened, and a young voice came from inside.

    "Forgiveness is not granted, for your sins are unforgivable."

    This voice sounded somewhat unfamiliar. Ling Chen''s voice was slightly higher and a bit frivolous. Yet, the voice of the youth from inside the Exile Pce was clean, ethereal, like a melody of the world, seeping into one''s heart.

    Those who liked this voice found it a cleansing pleasure for the soul.

    Those who feared it heard it as a nightmare.

    "Wha..." The Withered Bone Keeper and the others trembled upon hearing this voice!

    As they raised their heads, it felt as though a mountain pressed down upon them!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Another shock came with the opening of the door!

    To their astonishment, they saw a young man in white standing leisurely inside the door, basking in their fearful kneeling, a faint smile on his lips. His eyes, yful as a cat with a mouse, were filled with teasing!

    "Yun Xiao?"

    How could he be here?

    The Withered Bone Keeper clenched his teeth tightly, shooting a nce at Overseer Sikong, who stood with his head bowed, shrouded in violet mist.

    Ku Xuan and the other Overseers exchanged looks, each one suddenly standing up, their faces a palette of dramatic changes.

    "Where''s Exile Ling? The Heavenly Land Sigil?"

    The crowd of onlookers, arriving on their Sovereign Swords, grewrger, their minds filled with questions.

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! WHOOSH! </em>Suddenly, thousands of sword lights suddenly descended from the sky! These thousands of sword lights transformed into Sword Cultivators, encircling the Withered Bone Keeper and hispanions in an imprable ring!

    Recognizing these thousands, all the Sword Cultivators were stunned, gasping in shock.

    "The Sword Warden has arrived!"

    "Over 20 Overseers, more than 100 Supreme Adjudicators, and over 800 Peak Masters are all here!"

    Just the Fate Ocean Realm powerhouses numbered almost a thousand!

    These were the peak forces of the Sword Ruins!

    At this moment, they stood cold and impassive, surrounding the Withered Bone Keeper and the others.

    "Exile Yun!" Their gazes intense, they looked towards Yun Xiao, shouting his name, their Sword Souls nging in clear support, showing unequivocally where their loyaltiesy.

    For the Withered Bone Keeper and his group, this was like being struck by lightning!

    "Mu Tianjian..." Ku Xuan felt a chill in his heart. He turned sharply to Overseer Sikong, demanding, "Where''s Exile Ling?"

    Hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators gathered around, all staring at the Exile Pce.

    Everyone wanted to know, where had Exile Ling gone?

    "Ling Chen?" Overseer Sikong stepped back,ughing bitterly, "He''s long dead at the hands of Exile Yun''s sword."

    With this statement, a seismic shock reverberated through the hearts of the countless Sword Cultivators present.

 Chapter 320: Fifth Form, Formation God!

    Chapter 320: Fifth Form, Formation God!

    "Poppycock!" Ku Xuan bellowed, his anger boiling over. "Exile Ling has obtained the Heavenly Land, how could he possibly be dead?"

    Even for the ordinary Sword Cultivators, the idea that an Exiled Sword Immortal like Ling Chen could be dead was hard for anyone to swallow!

    "Has Overseer Sikong gone mad, spouting such nonsense?"

    "Wasn''t he a man of the Withered Bone Keeper? Why''d he suddenly turn coat?"

    The Sword Cultivators buzzed with confusion, their minds swirling with doubts.

    As the situation grew chaotic, the Sword Warden spoke up, his voice grand and solemn, "Recently, the Withered Bone Keeper and others have stolen the Heavenly Mirror, leading to its destruction. ording to thews of the Sword Ruins, this is a crime punishable by death, with no room for mercy!"

    With each word he spoke, the atmosphere in the Sword Ruins grew heavier by the minute!

    It was clear to everyone that from this moment on, master and disciple had irreparably fallen out.

    "Hahaha!" Ku Xuan suddenly burst intoughter, scoffing, "Oh, Sword Warden, you sure have a knack for making mountains out of molehills! Who do you think you are? Without my father, would you be where you are today? So eager to judge your own benefactor, you''re nothing but a contemptible ingrate!"

    The Sword Warden, upon hearing this, just shook his head and sighed.

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    Emboldened, Ku Xuan continued loudly, "As for the Heavenly Mirror, don''t listen to this ingrate''s nder, my fellow Sword Cultivators! Exile Ling, equal in rank to the Sword Warden, had every right to use the Heavenly Mirror. More importantly, he used it to secure the Cmity Seal Sword for us! We, in league with Exile Ling, have achieved a feat for the ages. How dare this ungrateful wretch judge us?"

    His words stirred some, who now looked at the Sword Warden with suspicion. Still, most remained silent, pondering and watching quietly to see how things would unfold.

    "Ku Xuan, then pray tell... where is the Cmity Seal Sword?" the Sword Warden suddenly asked.

    In contrast to Ku Xuan''s aggressive stance, his demeanor remained calm.

    "Of course, it''s with Exile Ling! When he returns..." But before Ku Xuan could finish, a tingling sound from within the Exile Pce interrupted him!

    He looked around, bewildered, to see a young man in white casually waving a two-foot peach wooden sword in the air, cheerfully saying, "Are you talking about this one?"

    The surroundings fell into an eerie silence!

    Ku Xuan''s eyes bulged, bloodshot with disbelief. The Cmity Seal Sword belonged to his son-inw, the Talisman Emperor, there was no way he wouldn''t recognize it! He knew it, and so did Withered Bone Keeper and the other elders of the Sword Ruins.

    "How did the Cmity Seal Sword end up in Exile Yun''s hands?"

    After the silence, the crowd erupted. Everyone was deeply unsettled. The atmosphere in the Exile Pce turned explosive in an instant!

    Considering the bond between master and disciple, the Sword Warden hesitated, but Yun Xiao wasn''t one to coddle them!

    Holding the Cmity Seal Sword, he stepped out of the Exile Pce, pulling out a ck Bag of Holding from his robes.

    "Whose is this, Withered Bone Keeper?" Yun Xiao asked, casually swinging the Bag of Holding.

    The Withered Bone Keeper''s face twisted grotesquely, his skin crinkling until only a leather mask remained.

    This Bag of Holding, a personal treasure he had offered Ling Chen, was filled with an abundance of resources they had gathered. Now, both the precious bag and the Cmity Seal Sword were in Yun Xiao''s possession What did that imply?

    A sneer suddenly echoed through the crowd. Everyone turned to see Du Zhongyuan, Mu Daxiong, and over seventy Sword Cultivators in the Fate Ocean Realm who had ventured into the Demon Continent with Yun Xiao.

    "Think hard, folks, who was it that spread the news about Ling Chen obtaining the Heavenly Land?" Mu Daxiong''s voice boomed, leaving countless minds reeling.

    Ku Xuan, his blood boiling in reverse, turned his gaze to the seemingly harmless Du Zhongyuan!

    With a smirk, Du Zhongyuan said, "Ling Chen, a mere sword ve, dared to offend Exile Yun and was in by him! And as for the coveted Heavenly Land Sigil, I presume it''s easy to guess whose hands it''s in now?"

    His words pierced like thousands of sharp swords through the hearts of the Withered Bone Keeper and others. Their exhration and schemes of the past half day had be aplete farce. Each of them was a perfect clown.

    "All eyes on Exile Yun..."

    Millions of gazes once again fell on the young man in white. This time, the reverence in their eyes was tenfoldpared to during the Immortal Sword Rankings.

    It was one thing to have terrifying talent, but quite another to y everyone like a fiddleusing the recently deceased Ling Chen as bait and luring the Withered Bone Keeper and the others into a trap!

    The realization of the truth sent shivers down everyone''s spine.

    "It can''t be! Exile Ling, a true Immortal reincarnated, he wouldn''t..." Ku Xuan''s mind shattered, and he roared in denial. Before he could finish, the young man in white, as serene as a passing cloud, touched a spot on his forehead.

    Only then did people notice the sigil on his brow!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A violet Life Sigil suddenly appeared before a million eyes!

    On it was a nine-headed dragon, resembling kings of the abyssal hell, coiling in the void. The dragon was entwined with countless runes, forming numerous miniature formations that enriched the content of the Life Sigil!

    "The Life Sigil! The Heavenly Land Sigil!" The shout reverberated through the entire ce.

    A million Sword Cultivators gasped, holding their breath, their minds a nk te.

    "Look, everyone! This Life Sigil has at least 8,000 Runes!"

    "Exile Yun just got the Heavenly Land Sigil, and he''s already drawn 8,000 Runes"

    Everyone was stunned. They had anticipated the appearance of the Heavenly Land Sigil, but 8,000 Runes? That was beyond anyone''s wildest imaginations, piercing through their limits of belief.

    "8,000" The Withered Bone Keeper and the other Overseers staggered back, their faces ashen, as if trampled by iron boots, a deep, soul-tearing fear etched into their expressions.

    With the appearance of the Heavenly Land Sigil adorned with 8,000 Runes, all their stubborn defiance turned into a joke, their resistance into submission.

    "Father, is this... real?" Ku Xuan clutched his father''s arm, his voice trembling.

    The Withered Bone Keeper''s eyes were dull. He first nced at the indifferent Yun Xiao, then towards the Sword Warden at his back.

    "Master, you must concede!" the Sword Warden said solemnly.

    <em>THUD! </em>Before the Withered Bone Keeper and Ku Xuan could react, Feng Buhui, Yun Xinghe, and the other Overseers fell to their knees, prostrating themselves!

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    "We were blind to the true Immortal, andmitted great sins! We wish to follow Exile Yun for the rest of our lives as atonement!" Feng Buhui''s voice shook.

    "We wish to atone!" The other four Overseers, all trembling and fearful, knelt down.

    They were terrified! Never did they imagine a genius could instill such fear. Their hearts were now filled with nothing but dread! They weren''t of the Ku Family; they still had a chance to live. If they didn''t switch sides now, they would be truly on a path to ruin.

    "Feng Buhui! Yun Xinghe! You traitors!" Ku Xuan burst out in fury.

    "May I ask Exile Yun, do you need us to capture these two traitors of the Ku Family?" Feng Buhui coldly eyed Ku Xuan.

    This scene unfolded before the eyes of a million Sword Cultivators. First trembling in their hearts, they soon gazed at Yun Xiao with a mixture of intense admiration and obsession.

    "Traitors of the Ku Family?" Upon hearing these words, Ku Xuan spat out a mouthful of ck blood. In the Sword Ruins, it hade down to just him and his father standing together!

    "You cling to delusion, desiring to disturb the peace of our ancestors, stealing the Sword Relic for your own life. Are you not traitors?" Shuang Jiang dered sternly.

    "Exile Yun, please give us five a chance to redeem ourselves through deeds! Let''s capture these traitors and unite the Sword Ruins!" Yun Xinghe spoke with fervor.

    "No need," Yun Xiao said indifferently. "There''s no talk of redemption here. Make a mistake, and you must pay with your life."

    The faces of Feng Buhui and the other four paled, and they copsed to the ground.

    A collective gasp of shock rippled through the million Sword Cultivators.

    They realized Yun Xiao was no saint...

    "With the other eight hells watching closely like tigers, Exile Yun''s thunderous methods serve as a warning to those with ill intentions. Oppose him, and there''s only death!"

    This realization fired up the blood of the million Sword Cultivators.

    "Sword Warden, hand me the heart of the Ruination Sword Array." As Yun Xiao spoke, all eyes were on him as he rose into the air.

    "Kill him!" The Withered Bone Keeper, who had been silent and twisted, suddenly shouted with a chilling voice.

    Ku Xuan, Feng Buhui, and the other Overseers snapped to action! Only by killing Yun Xiao could they have a chance to live. It was their only shot, and they were willing to stake their lives on it!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Above in the heavens, the Sword Warden appeared beside Yun Xiao, holding a white sphere about a foot in diameter.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A total of 99 streams of sword energy surged from this sphere, connecting to the ny-nine nodes of the Sword Ruins Formation.

    This was the array heart, the true control center of the Ruination Sword Array. Only the Sword Warden could wield it.

    "Be careful!"

    As the seven powerhouses charged, countless Sword Cultivators worried for Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao, without even a nce at the seven, pressed the Prison Warden Sigil against the array heart!

    "It actually has a fifth form, Formation God!"

    Soul Origin, Runic Umbre, Dao Dragon, Prison Ward, and Formation Goda perfect, multifunctional battle medium.

    "Controlling the array heart with Formation God, the power of the Ruination Sword Array skyrockets... With this in the Sword Ruins, I am invincible!" The moment the Prison Warden Sigil touched the array heart, the white spherical core abruptly turned violet, revealing a nine-headed dragon!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The streams of sword energy connecting the 99 nodes of the array also turned violet!

    Finally, the entire Ruination Sword Array in the sky morphed into a majestic violet hue!

    <em>ROAR! </em>Each stream of Immortal sword energy was entwined with a violet dragon, embodying the power of the soul and purification!

    This was a ferocious, fearsome power. Yet, when it pressed down upon the Withered Bone Keeper and Ku Xuan, their deathly swordsmanship felt as if it was being exercised and purified!

    "Father, hold off Mu Tianjian, I''ll kill him!" Ku Xuan suddenly charged into the sky, sword in hand!

    As the third strongest in the Sword Ruins, his Sword Aura numbered 8,000yers, and his sword boasted Hell Demon Sword Rings!

    <em>BOOM! </em>His strike seemed to create a river of death between heaven and earth. The dense Sword Aura surged skyward, pressing down on the young man in white!

    "You''re overestimating your abilities." Yun Xiao nced at him coldly, the Prison Warden Sigil in his hand stirring to life!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The violet nine-headed dragon made out of sword energy in the sky descended like a vast ocean, overwhelming everything in its path!

    This violet ocean of sword energy shed with Ku Xuan''s river. The victor was clear as day!

    "UGH!?" Ku Xuan could only withstand it for a mere moment before he was swallowed by the violet ocean of sword energy!

    <em>SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE! </em>His body was instantly purified into vapor by this force, leaving only his skeleton standing dumbstruck in the sky!

    "He''s strengthened the Ruination Sword Array..." Feng Buhui and the other four were utterly petrified!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Then, five more streams of sword energy pierced through the sky. In a matter of moments, these five Overseers were vaporized!

    In less than ten breaths, only the Withered Bone Keeper remained standing!

    "It''s a massacre!"

    This was Yun Xiao''s first trial of the devastating power of the Prison Warden Sigil, and it was terrifyingly effective. Six Overseers were annihted in an instant! Without the Ruination Sword Array, he couldn''t have achieved this!

    "The array kills with the power of money; you might want to ease up a bit. That attack just now must''ve cost about 20 million Immortal Jades," Blue Starmented wryly.

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    "Dammit!" Yun Xiao realized the importance of money all too well!

    And now, only one man remained before himthe Withered Bone Keeper, utterly isted. A man who feared death more than anything! He drew his sword, looking around at his younger counterparts, all now gone.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 321 - Even True Immortals Shall Die!

    <h4>Chapter 321 - Even True Immortals Shall Die!</h4>

    ¡°Exile Yun!¡±

    Like a thunderous tide, the cry reverberated across the Sword Ruins. The 999 peaks of swords quivered in unison, resonating with this name!

    With the demise of Ku Xuan and the other five Overseers, the Sword Cultivators who witnessed this scene were utterly conquered, their eyes zing with volcanic fervor.

    These deafening cheers surged from all directions, crashing like a tsunami over the withered old man.

    His cloudy, tear-streaked eyes witnessed it all. Undoubtedly, the Sword Ruins he oncemanded had nearly all turned to Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Master, wake up. It''s you against the entire Sword Ruins.¡± The Sword Warden sighed, his words cutting to the bone.

    ¡°Right!¡±

    ¡°You have already achieved greatness, why tread this path of dishonor in your twilight years?¡±

    ¡°Daring to defy a true Immortal of the sword, that''s a capital offense!¡±

    ¡°You''ve left a stain on the lineage of Sword Wardens!"

    Angry curses and indifferent faces filled the air.

    ¡°You think everyone betrayed you, but in truth, you betrayed the sword,¡± the Sword Warden said deeply. ¡°Master, in this life, you¡¯ve roamed the world, sword in hand, true to your heart. Your merits areplete, why grasp at a fleeting life?¡±

    ¡°Hehehe...¡± The Withered Bone Keeper suddenlyughed bitterly. ¡°In this vast path of immortality, what''s the point if one can''t achieve eternal life? My only mistake was choosing the wrong side, the wrong person. This mistake led to my downfall. I have nothing more to say!¡±

    ¡°In seeking life for yourself, you¡¯ve doomed your descendants to die for you. Is that not a mistake?¡± The Sword Warden shook his head.

    ¡°It''s Yun Xiao, the high and mighty Exiled Sword Immortal, who killed them, not me!¡± the Withered Bone Keeper snarled. Driven into a corner, he was like a scared, cornered old dog. His fiery eyes fixed on Yun Xiao!

    ¡°Are you a reincarnated true Immortal or a reincarnated god of ughter? Wherever you go, nothing grows. You bring disaster, those who follow you thrive, those who oppose you perish. What right do you have to judge me?!¡±

    Yun Xiao looked at him coldly. ¡°I never condemned you. Besides, you¡¯re right. Those in my way die. You¡¯re just one of the many who didn¡¯t see iting.¡±

    There was no bond of master and disciple between him and the Withered Bone Keeper. Yun Xiao¡¯s logic was always simple¡ªhis rise invited envy. Whoever sought his death would meet their own!

    That was the way to do it¡ªsimple and brutal!

    Yun Xiao''s straightforward and ruthless mindset was like a brick wall for the Withered Bone Keeper. He didn¡¯t even get a chance to undermine Yun Xiao''s reputation!

    Hebeled Yun Xiao a viin, and Yun Xiao¡¯s response? ¡°Yep, that¡¯s me!¡±

    What could he do about it?

    The crowd''s eyes were sharp. Every Sword Cultivator in the Sword Ruins fervently believed that this white-robed viin would bring glory and a future to the Eternal Sword Prison!

    The Nine Hells vying for supremacy, the Sword Dao reigning supreme!

    Morally and in the hearts of the people, the Withered Bone Keeper had utterly lost! Millions of cold gazes and mercilessughs were the cruelest irony of his nearly century-long life. A high beginning, a low end¡ªhiste years tarnished!

    Each disdainful nce was like a sword piercing his heart. He was stabbed by millions of such swords! The agony was indescribable. His world was left with nothing but blood and hatred.

    He refused to ept this! Why should his life end this way? It was all Yun Xiao''s fault! Without this monster, causing the Eternal Sword to hum 100,000 times, how could he have ended up so utterly abandoned?

    "You..." The Withered Bone Keeper growled, his eyes drowned in blood. He red fiercely at Yun Xiao, his body already aze with a dim yellow fire! Clearly, he was burning his life force and sacred power, gathering it into the gray Sword Soul in his hand, enhanced by a 9,000yer Sword Aura!

    The gray Sword Soul roiled with death energy, emitting a deafening howl. A dim yellow tornado swirled around it, sucking in the essence of all the vegetation on the mountain of the Exile Pce, leaving everything withered!

    Not a de of grass survived!

    ¡°The Withered Spirit Sword Canon, annihting all life, even true Immortals shall perish!¡± The Withered Bone Keeper, with his peak power in the Nine Hells, conjured a Flying Sword technique!

    <i>BOOM! </i>His sacred power trembled, sting hundreds of thousands of Sword Cultivators hundreds of meters away!

    A massive gray-yellow vortex suddenly spun into life, lifting the green tiles off the pce grounds. The earth, rocks, buildings... even the sky turned gray and white for a moment!

    It was clear how powerful that sword was.

    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for the Ruination Sword Array, even one percent of the power of his sword technique could probably have annihted me,¡± Yun Xiao reflected, gazing at the raging, ferocious sword of death below.

    At the heart of that gray-yellow storm, even the Withered Bone Keeper''s beard was torn asunder! Overexerting his power, his flesh burst open, his wrinkles tore apart, oozing gray blood and tears.

    His life''s pursuit was all in that sword!

    ¡°Exile Yun, let me handle this,¡± the Sword Warden said gravely.

    ¡°No need. He has shown you kindness; you must not act.¡± Yun Xiao, pressing his left hand on the array heart, had divine light shining in his eyes.

    ¡°Viin, face me!¡± As he spoke, the Withered Bone Keeper roared andunched his Flying Sword.

    <i>Withered Spirit Sword Canon, Rootless Grass!</i>

    The gray Sword Soul, entwined in the deathly storm, soared skyward like a whole underworld, lunging at Yun Xiao!

    With that sword strike, all vegetation within several thousand meters withered in an instant!

    The gray Rootless Grass floated in the air, seemingly slow but actually darting in a sh, aiming straight for Yun Xiao''s brow.

    Yun Xiao, expressionless, pointed at the array heart, on the Prison Warden Sigil!

    <i>BOOM! </i>Above the heavens, the Ruination Sword Array plummeted down!

    Countless violet storms of sword energy converged into one sword, entwined with a nine-headed violet dragon, coldly gazing down at the gray-yellow storm below.

    ¡°Rootless Grass?¡± Yun Xiao narrowed his eyes slightly, his finger changing. The violet sword formed by the Ruination Sword Array suddenly transformed into a violet strand of grass, carrying a violet hell, descending with three times the might of its opponent!

    ¡°What is this...¡± The Sword Warden was stunned. ¡°He¡¯s using the Ruination Sword Array to execute a Flying Sword technique???¡±

    At that moment, the Sword Warden''s worldview was shattered. He had controlled the Ruination Sword Array for decades and understood the other formations of the Nine Hells. All formations were supposed to be operated in set ways... He had never heard of anyone using a formation directly as a sword technique!

    It was unprecedented! As the controller of the Ruination Sword Array, this scene shook him to the core, far more than it would anyone else.

    Of course, the Withered Bone Keeper thought he was the one in control! At this sight, his eyes literally burst in disbelief!

    Theymen, on the other hand, watched with great interest, oblivious to the terrifying intricacies of the scene.

    ¡°Another overwhelming victory!¡±

    Cheers erupted from the crowd, their eyes aze with excitement.

    As the power of the Ruination Sword Array exploded, the two Flying Swords hadn¡¯t even collided yet. Under the suppression of that violet haze, the Withered Bone Keeper¡¯s storm of death was purified and evaporated on the spot!

    Such a brutal violet sword formation, yet so divinely powerful! It was a crushing defeat, like snapping dry twigs!

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The deathly power dissipated, leaving only that one strand of rootless gray grass.

    Under the overwhelming force of the Ruination Sword Array enhanced Rootless Grass, the gray one shattered like a mantis trying to stop a chariot.

    <i>SPUTTER! </i>The Withered Bone suffered a blow to both body and soul, spurting out ck blood!

    ¡°MONSTER!!¡± With this final cry, the violet Rootless Grass pierced down,pletely engulfing his physical body!

    The storm passed, leaving only a gray-white skeleton kneeling in front of the Exile Pce.

    People stared dumbfounded at the skeleton, then up at the white-robed true Immortal in the sky.

    After a silence of ten breaths, millions of Sword Cultivators raised their Sword Souls, pointing them towards the sky.

    ¡°We swear to follow Exile Yun, to forge a new era of the Sword Dao!¡±

    Nearly all the Sword Cultivators of the Sword Ruins had now gathered at the Exile Pce. It was no longer just a million. Even those who couldn¡¯t make it could see from afar the Ruination Sword Array executing the Withered Bone Keeper, thest rebel of the Sword Ruins.

    The news of Yun Xiao''s scheme had already spread across the 999 sword peaks.

    The Sword Cultivators never imagined they¡¯d all be yed by him...

    ¡°Everyone!¡± Yun Xiao slowly retracted the Prison Warden Sigil, grasping the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his right hand, pointing towards the heavens. ¡°The full support of the Sword Ruins has brought me this glory. I won¡¯t bother with titudes about repaying kindness; from now on, I stand with you all. Whoever opposes us, this will be their fate!¡±

    Saying this, he then pointed Heaven Burial at the kneeling Withered Bone Keeper.

    Millions of Sword Cultivators echoed his stance with their swords.

    ¡°Exile Yun is a straightforward man.¡±

    ¡°Indeed, no beating around the bush.¡±

    The crowd was fervently supportive.

    Sword Cultivators, by nature, were direct. Yun Xiao¡¯s frankness earned their respect.

    Watching those passionate eyes, the Sword Warden mused, ¡°Though some have fallen, the Sword Ruins are now united, stronger than before.¡±

    ¡°Normal! Collusion inside and outside only leads to vulnerability, but united, our strength doubles,¡± Yun Xiao said. This was why he dealt with the Ku Family and others so decisively.

    ¡°The arrogant powers of the eight hells will soon hear the news,¡± the Sword Warden said grimly.

    ¡°Let''s see if they rush in or cower in fear,¡± Yun Xiao added.

    ¡°Knowing them, they¡¯ll be more anxious,¡± the Sword Wardenmented.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t say much. The threat from the eight hells was significant! And the Immortal Jades of the Sword Ruins wouldn¡¯tst forever. Not to mention Blue Star and Red Moon also burned through a lot of resources.

    ¡°I hope we canst until the Nine Hells Conquest sh! Once it starts, except for fair battles, they can''t scheme behind our backs,¡± the Sword Warden said.

    ¡°When does it start?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°In just over half a month,¡± the Sword Warden replied.

    Yun Xiao paused. He had thought it was in the next few days. More than half a month? That was too long!

    ¡°Feeling the pressure?¡± the Sword Warden asked.

    ¡°What pressure? In more than half a month, even if they dig up their ancestors, it won¡¯t matter.¡± Yun Xiao chuckled. He nned to stay and cultivate in the Ruination Sword Array. With so much time, he would be soaring.

    ¡°I''m just worried they might take a desperate gamble, attacking the Sword Ruins with the forces of the eight hells before thepetition.¡± The Sword Warden frowned, ¡°In that case, three Ruination Sword Arrays and a billion Immortal Jades wouldn¡¯t be enough.¡±

 Chapter 322 - Immortal Ruins

    <h4>Chapter 322 - Immortal Ruins</h4>

    In a situation unprecedented in history, the Nine Hells were embroiled in a delicate bnce, never before tipping to the point where one realm faced the onught of the others.

    "How would that kind of scenario y out?" Yun Xiao asked, his voice as calm as a sereneke.

    "You might fall, and the Sword Ruins will suffer greatly," the Sword Wardenmented, a hint of helplessness in his tone. Indeed, the formidable Ruination Sword Array could fend off some, but not thebined might of the eight hells.

    "But we won''t just be sitting ducks. If we''re running low on Immortal Jades, we''ll just go out and snatch some more. With you here, we''ll confront soldiers with strategy and counter floods with ingenuity," the Sword Warden dered, his eyes zing with an unwavering belief.

    He wasn''t afraid. So far, Yun Xiao had yet to taste defeat. This fact alone bolstered his faith immensely.

    "In that case, prioritize all resources of the Sword Ruins for me," Yun Xiao demanded, his appetite for resources asrge as his courage.

    "No problem!" the Sword Warden agreed, appreciating Yun Xiao''s straightforward and reliable approach.

    "To be frank, pitting one hell against the eight seems like madness to the world, but we''re willing to gamble our lives for you," the Sword Warden dered earnestly.

    "Let''s take a chance," Yun Xiao replied with a slight smile, dissolving all the pressure in the air.

    "Let''s talk about the current situation in the Nine Hells," he suggested, strolling into a pavilion where, not so long ago, Zhang Mu had delivered seven Hell Demon Sword Rings to Ling Chen.

    Now, with the Sword Ruins'' internal affairs settled and millions of Sword Cultivators spreading the news, a strong sense of purpose filled the air.

    "You can return to your normal lives now," Yun Xiao told Bai Qingxue and her son Bai Wuque.

    "Is Ling Chen really dead..." Bai Wuque asked, his face still pale, his voice trembling.

    "What do you think?" Yun Xiao responded.

    With a thud, Bai Wuque and his mother knelt, their voices filled with excitement, "With you here, the Sword Ruins will surely triumph! We are willing to give our all for you!"

    "Go and rest," Yun Xiao said with a wave of his hand. As the Nine Hells entered a phase of war dominated by the mighty, the ordinary Sword Judges and disciples no longer needed to risk their lives.

    Yun Xiao never intended to kick off arge-scale war. He just needed the people''s backing, and he''d handle the rest of the war himself, maybe with a little help from the powerhouses of the Sword Ruins.

    Settling into his seat, Yun Xiao faced the Sword Warden, who took his ce across the table.

    "Eternal Sword Prison, Endless Netherworld, Primeval Demon Hell, and Cmity Seal Purgatory¡ªthese four, represent sword, devil, demon, and sigil. What about the others?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "There''s the Rising Sun Inferno, on par with the Cmity Seal Purgatory and a bit stronger than the Endless Netherworld. Many from Rising Sun were part of the ambush at the Heavenly Land entrance," the Sword Warden replied gravely.

    "Rising Sun Inferno... they''re devils, right?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes, their main tribe is the ''Yang Devil n''," the Sword Warden exined.

    "How do they differ from the devils of the Endless Netherworld?"

    Yun Xiao thought of the War Princess, currently dominating the Endless Netherworld. After awakening her Nine-Tiered Bloodline, she had risen from mediocrity to conquest. Her six uncles, once doubters, now treasured her like a precious gem, adding to her father''s support. Soon, her word would be the ironw in the Endless Netherworld.

    "The Yin Devil n of the Endless Netherworld are more human-like, with stronger blood arts. Yang Devils look more hideous, are crueler, focus more on physical strength, and use some forbidden blood arts. The Rising Sun Inferno is one of the most brutal realms in the Nine Hells," the Sword Warden noted.

    "So, just these two kinds of devils in the Nine Hells?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Right," the Sword Warden nodded.

    "And they don''t get along?"

    The Sword Warden smiled wryly. "That''s an understatement. Yin and Yang Devils have been at each other''s throats for generations. Since there''s no breeding barrier between them, and devil males can suppress and absorb the bloodlines of females, ''Kill the men and seize the women'' became a way to annihte the other side and strengthen themselves. So, both sides want to swallow the other, especially the Yang Devils. They''ve fought countless wars, with the Yin Devils often losing and clinging to their territory to preserve their lineage."

    "So, they''re sworn enemies, huh?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Absolutely. One more thing. Despite not being neighbors, one being in the east and the other in the west, the Rising Sun Inferno and Cmity Seal Purgatory get along quite well. So when Qingzan went to the Endless Netherworld, the Yang Devils weren''t pleased," the Sword Warden said.

    "Got it." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Actually, in the Nine Hells, it''s rare for the same races to band together. The more simr they are, the worse their rtions, like us and the Cmity Seal Purgatory. It''s not that we don''t want to get along with them; they''ve always looked down on us, striving to be the top among humanity. Such rivalries breed generational hatred. By our time, it''s etched in our hearts, indelible." The Sword Warden sighed.

    "Qingzan''s marriage to the Cmity Seal Purgatory, was it supposed to be a chance for reconciliation?" Yun Xiao pondered.

    "Not really. Seeing her favor the Cmity Seal Purgatory, it''s clear she''s on a mission of conquest, not really wishing well for the Sword Cultivators." The Sword Warden chuckled.

    Yun Xiao pondered a bit and realized he already knew five of the Nine Hells.

    "What about the remaining four? Are they inhabited by humans, demons, or devils? Or something else?" he asked.

    "Of these four, three are located in the vast oceans of the Nine Hells, making them oceanic hells," the Sword Warden exined.

    "There are oceans in the Nine Hells?"

    "Yes! The oceans cover about half thend area. They''re home to sea demons, not humans or devils."

    "All three are sea demons?" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled with curiosity. He had thought only the Primeval Demon Hell housed demons. He was surprised to learn that sea demons tripled the number ofnd demons.

    "Indeed! In the Nine Hells, the four hells ofnd and sea demons make up almost half. You see now why the Eternal Sword Prison finds itself in a tricky spot, friendless? It''s mainly because befriending us means offending all the demon hells." The Sword Warden chuckled.

    "And yet you''ve managed to survive until now?" Yun Xiao was genuinely surprised.

    "If these four demon prisons united, we''d have been history. Fortunately, the animosity betweennd and sea demons rivals that of the Yin and Yang Devils. In a way, the Primeval Demon Hell is fighting a one-against-three battle. Thankfully, their habitats differ, or it might have been wiped out long ago."

    "Also, those three sea demon hells are constantly at each other''s throats, especially the Reverie Abyss and Leviathan Ravine. They''re perpetually in conflict. With these demons busy fighting among themselves, they hardly have time to think about exterminating us," the Sword Warden exined.

    It was natural for each hell to have its own agenda and reluctance to exert effort. Every hell in the Nine Hells was vast, and wiping out a lineage would cost anyone dearly.

    "Reverie Abyss and Leviathan Abyss?" Yun Xiao murmured.

    "Right. The main inhabitants of the former are the Sirens of the Vast Ocean, a unique half-demon race with human torsos and fish tails, carrying human bloodlines. Their demon bones are of no use to Sword Cultivators. So, they get along fairly well with humans. The Leviathan Ravine, however, is dominated by the Sea Dragon n, the tyrants of the seas," the Sword Warden continued.

    "Are they true dragons?"

    "Not quite. Most are mixed-blood dragon demons; pure-blooded ones are rare, just like the Azure Phoenix in the Primeval Demon Hell," the Sword Warden paused. "But their demon bones are quite useful for us."

    "A veritable treasure trove," Yun Xiao said with a chuckle.

    To elevate the Sword Ruins, demon bones and pills were essential. Since the demon bones of the Reverie Abyss were ineffective and the Primeval Demon Hell was Moon Fairy''s target, the Leviathan Ravine caught Yun Xiao''s attention.

    "And the final oceanic hell?"

    "The Undead Depths. It''s the domain of vengeful sea demons, born from the deepest resentments of the ocean. Although not numerous, they are incredibly powerful and almost impossible to exterminate. Fortunately, they seldom emerge from their abyssal depths, so conflicts are rare."

    The Sword Warden gazed into the distance, frowning. "But this time, among those who ambushed you at the portal, I saw vengeful sea demons. Their participation shows that the desire of the other eight hells to kill you is intense, bordering on obsessive."

    Yun Xiao preferred not to dwell on this topic. He hadn''t offended these beings. Yet, they were determined to make his life difficult. What more was there to say? He would let his sword decide life and death.

    "Thest hell is the Immortal Asylum?" Yun Xiao turned to the Sword Warden.

    One more hell in the Nine Hells remained unmentioned.

    "Yes, the Central Heaven Immortal Asylum, located right in the heart of the Nine Hells. It''s the smallest, about the size of the Sword Ruins, so we also call it ''Immortal Ruins,''" the Sword Warden replied.

    "Which race does it belong to? Human? Devil? Demon?" Yun Xiao inquired

    "Not any of those!" the Sword Warden said.

    "Then what is it?"

    "It''s a mix of everything¡ªhumans, demons, devils, and even some bizarre beings," the Sword Warden mused. "The Immortal Ruins are unique in that they aren''t formed by a single cultivation system or race. They''re a true sect."

    "A sect?"

    "Yes, a true sect power. It can recruit cultivators from any of the other eight hells, even visitors from other realm worlds. To join the Immortal Ruins, one must meet two conditions¡ªbe an elite prodigy and renounce allegiance to your original power, pledging loyalty solely to the Immortal Ruins...

    "In essence, though part of the Nine Hells, they often stand apart, rarely involving themselves in the conflicts of the Nine Hells. Their geniuses seldom appear in public, and information about their inner workings is often sealed off.

    "Nheless, it''s undeniable that they have the highest number of powerful individuals and have held the greatest authority since ancient times," the Sword Warden said.

    "Can it really be so?" Yun Xiao found this quite extraordinary. The Immortal Ruins were clearly in the Nine Hells. Yet, from the Sword Warden''s words, it seemed his knowledge was somewhat limited.

    "Anyway, it''s very mysterious! Many of the Nine Hells'' enigmatic events are rted to the Immortal Ruins," the Sword Warden said.

    "Were they involved in the recent attempt on my life?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I didn''t see anyone from the Immortal Ruins there, but it''s hard to say if they were stirring the pot from behind the scenes," the Sword Warden replied.

    "Understood."

    Yun Xiao was about to probe further when suddenly, Mu Dalong rushed in urgently, announcing, "Exile Yun, Father! A messenger from the Immortal Asylum has just brought news."

    "What is it?" the Sword Warden asked.

    Mu Dalong''s expression was grim. "They''ve announced that the Nine Hells Conquest sh is being held ahead of schedule."

    "When exactly?"

    "Tomorrow first thing in the morning at 7!"

    "Oh?"

    The Sword Warden and Yun Xiao exchanged a look.

    With a cold glint in his eyes, the Sword Warden murmured, "ying out of turn, are they?"

 Chapter 323: Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil

    Chapter 323: Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil

    At the Eternal Sword Prison, at the entrance to Demon Continent, hundreds of shadows loomed around the swirling vortex.

    Within a hundred miles, the air was thick with a deadly stillness. Even the wind had ceased to move.

    As impatience grew among those harboring deadly intent, a message arrived from the direction of the Sword Ruins.

    The bearer of the news lost his voice in shock.

    "Ling Chen is already dead!

    "The Heavenly Land was taken by Yun Xiao!

    "The Ku Family lineage has been wiped out. The Sword Ruins is united as one!"

    These three pieces of news struck like three giant swords, piercing the minds of the prominent figures of the eight hells.

    The scene fell into a deathly silence.

    Every shadowed figure had warped expressions, their eyes ame with deep malice. They had been yed, and yed thoroughly! Respected figures, made fools by a young man. If word got out, their reputations would be in tatters.

    In the crowd, upon hearing her Ku Family was essentially annihted, Qingzan cried out in heart-wrenching agony. Her children, gone! Her original home, gone!

    Such was the price for scheming against Yun Xiao.

    Her frosty face contorted as if trampled upon, exuding an unbearable stench. Her icy cyan sword energyshed out chaotically, warning all to keep their distance.

    "Shall we head to the Sword Ruins and obliterate them?" In the midst of this deathly stillness, Qingzan suddenly raised her head, her voice chilling to the bone.

    These powerhouses of the eight hells did not respond at once. After all, even if she was enraged, she did not represent the will of the Cmity Seal Purgatory.

    All eyes turned to the man behind her.

    Just then, another messenger arrived.

    "By the edict of the Immortal Asylum, the Nine Hells Conquest sh is brought forward to tomorrow morning!"

    The news plunged the scene into another round of silence.

    "Tomorrow morning? We''d better hurry back to prepare..."

    "Is the Central Heaven Immortal Asylum trying to save the Sword Ruins?"

    "Not necessarily. Even if we seed in attacking the Sword Ruins together, it woulde at a cost. Once the Nine Hells conflict is resolved, the Sword Ruins loses its home-field advantage."

    "So, what exactly is the intention of the Immortal Ruins?"

    Hundreds of shadowy figures exchanged nces, their brows slightly furrowed.

    "The waters seem to be getting deeper."

    "That Exile Yun is more troublesome than we thought."

    In such a situation, everyone was weighing their own positions and interests.

    "Let''s retreat."

    With the news from the Sword Ruins, the siege by the eight hells was effectively a failure.

    Though called a siege by the eight hells, in reality, only seven had shown up. This was the reason behind the War Princess''sment about three against five.

    More and more began to leave!

    "Gathering the power of the eight hells and going directly to the Sword Ruins would guarantee the death of that Exiled Sword Immortal!" Qingzan, with fiery eyes, turned to the man behind her.

    Enveloped in a colorful mist, the man sported dazzling, multicolored long hair and wore a loose ck robe, floating barefoot. Through the mist, he appeared much younger than the Sword Warden, with colorful irises and a strikingly handsome face with thin lips.

    "Who benefits the most from killing the Exiled Sword Immortal and weakening the Sword Ruins?" the man asked.

    "We do," Qingzan replied, biting her lip.

    "We only have one night, and the other hells won''t risk their necks for our Inscription Cultivators'' benefit," the man said.

    Clearly, apart from the Inscription Cultivators, most of the hells also wanted the Exiled Sword Immortal dead. However, they also didn''t want to incur significant losses, preferring to reap the benefits without getting their hands dirty. So, they indeed left more decisively!

    In the blink of an eye, the shadows near the vortex passage had mostly dispersed. Apart from the Inscription Cultivators, a group of dark figures remained.

    "Talisman Emperor." A tall and imposing shadow stepped forward towards the man with the colorful hair.

    He was a fearsome sight, his body adorned with ck blood patterns, eyes zing like torches. Larger in stature than the devils of the Endless Netherworld, his red hair atop his head burned eternally. Inside him raged a blood-red volcano, scorching the earth beneath his feet to ck, smoky wastnd.

    His visage was devoid of horns but boasted a tail like a steel whip, his face more akin to a fierce demon than any human, with ferocious fangs and a ghastly grin.

    Clearly, he was from the Yang Devil n!

    "Wick Devil." The man with the colorful hair nced at the neer.

    They met, and those around them tactfully dispersed. Man and devil, hands behind their backs, stood atop a mountain, the world before them lifeless and still, a thousand miles without a breath of wind.

    "Our opponent dares to im the Cmity Seal Sword for themselves, an opportunity as big as the sky itself," the Wick Devil''s voice was deep and rumbling, his fangs dripping blood as he spoke, his eyes a volcanic fury, a terrifying sight to behold.

    "What a pity, the other hells fear I might profit too much," the Talisman Emperor mused with a wistful smile.

    "I, from the Rising Sun Inferno, fear nothing," the Wick Devil dered, looking at him.

    "You''re always so straightforward. Such a forthright ruler of a hell is rare," the Talisman Emperor praised.

    "And your intention?" The Wick Devil raised an eyebrow.

    "Let''s continue to win together," the Talisman Emperor proposed.

    The Wick Devilughed heartily. After hisughter subsided, he mused, "The mysteries of the universe are endless! When Inscription Cultivators and Sword Cultivators unite, their offspring, especially male Inscription Cultivators with female Sword Cultivators, are inevitably Inscription Cultivators. These hybrid Inscription Cultivators often possessmendable talents with the sword like Fu Longxiang, even without a Sword Soul, using Life Sigils instead. Like this, a new generation proficient in both sword and sigil is born, strengthening your human race."

    "And your hybrid offspring of male Yang Devils and female Yin Devils, do they not alsobine two great talents? The beauty lies in the fact that such offspring are still fundamentally Yang Devils... The principle is the same." The Talisman Emperor chuckled.

    "My brother, to prove this rule among top-tier bloodlines, you even married a Sword Cultivator yourself, quite the daring move." The Wick Devil''s lips curled slightly, ncing at Qingzan in the distance.

    "Sadly, I lost a pair of hard-raised children and even the Cmity Seal Sword..." The Talisman Emperor''s gaze turned towards the Sword Ruins, his eyes shimmering with colorful runes and deep-seated vengeance forming a tumultuous sea within.

    "Such deep hatred and grave provocation provide the perfect excuse for Inscription Cultivators to disregard the Immortal Asylum and wage war on the Eternal Sword Prison. By killing the men and iming the women, you could unify the human race, bing the first human Emperor of the Nine Hells!" the Wick Devil''s voice was fiery, the mes atop his head burning even brighter.

    "If I be the Emperor of Man you shall be the sole Emperor of Devils. I have no doubts that you''ll eventually devour the Yin Devils with your Yang Devil bloodline. As the saying goes, only by uniting Yin and Yang can one find the true path," the Talisman Emperor said.

    "It''s a pity that my Rising Sun Inferno doesn''t have as good of a justification as the Cmity Seal Purgatory," the Wick Devilmented.

    "Ah, the wars between your two devil ns have always been a spectacle since ancient times. With the Nine Hells in chaos, who needs an excuse?" The Talisman Emperor chuckled.

    "True." The Wick Devil nodded.

    "If you really need an excuse, I might have cooked up one for you," the Talisman Emperor said, his lips curling slightly.

    "Oh?"

    "After the demise of the remaining Exiled Sword Immortal, the War Princess and her awakened Nine-Tiered Bloodline might harbor thoughts of dominating the Nine Hells. To prevent her from bing the next scourge, naturally, everyone should want her gone, right?" the Talisman Emperor said with a sly smile.

    "Is that so?" The Wick Devilughed again, his raspy and maic voice like rocks grinding, unnervingly chilling.

    "Speaking of which, the daughter of that doting son of a bitch is quite the gem," the Wick Devil said cheerfully.

    "What do you mean?" the Talisman Emperor asked.

    The Wick Devil patted his stomach and said coldly, "In this world, I have the greatest Yang attribute among the devils, and that little devil girl has the greatest Yin attribute. If we join forces,plementing Yin and Yang, what kind of offspring would we produce?"

    The Talisman Emperor was momentarily stunned. After a while, heughed dryly, "You old devil, chasing after young girls now?"

    "It''s not about the beauty of the maiden, but about passing on the bloodline," the Wick Devil said earnestly.

    "I believe you!" the Talisman Emperor replied. Pausing, he smiled coldly, "He''s always been defeated by you, living under your shadow. And now, he has to offer up his daughter. That must be infuriating enough to make him spit blood."

    "A devil is fierce by nature! Female devils may be gentle, no problem there. But a gentle male devil is aughingstock; such existence is meaningless. They should have been extinct long ago," the Wick Devil dered.

    "Indeed... Sword Cultivators are also a pointless system, slowing down the progress of our human race," the Talisman Emperor said coldly.

    "So, what now?"

    The two exchanged nces.

    "The Immortal Asylum''s strength is unknown, but apart from it, our two hells are the strongest, in a league of our own. The Endless Netherworld and Eternal Sword Prison can''t match us one-on-one. So, getting the four demon hells on our side is crucial," the Talisman Emperor said.

    "Demons are simple-minded beasts! As long as they see the benefit, they will join," the Wick Devil said.

    "Tomorrow morning is the Nine Hells Conquest sh. Let''s do it this way. Tonight, you go to the Undead Depths, and I''ll find Azure Phoenix?" the Talisman Emperor suggested.

    "Agreed!"

    Man and devil, having reached an ord, suddenly vanished into the wind.

 Chapter 324: Blood Devil Shrine!

    Chapter 324: Blood Devil Shrine!

    In the Endless Netherworld, a deep gorge witnessed the gathering of various powerful beings at the entrance to the Demon Continent, all abuzz with news from the Sword Ruins.

    Hidden in the darkness, these powerhouses were seething with rage.

    "That Exiled Sword Immortal, he''s flirting with death!"

    "And unting the Cmity Seal Sword as a trophy? That''s like peeing on the face of the Cmity Seal Purgatory!"

    As brows furrowed in concern, news of the early start of the Nine Hells Conquest sh arrived.

    "If the Inscription Cultivators don''t attack the Sword Ruins tonight, are they nning to settle the score at the Nine Hells Conquest sh?"

    "Boring, let''s get out of here!"

    With their departure, the dangers lurking at the two major entrances to the Demon Continent were finally neutralized.

    Near a cold pool, only Second Uncle remained.

    Soon after, two more figures arrivedthe Lion Duke and a young woman.

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    She was tall and slender, with long legs, arched eyebrows, bright eyes, and cold yet stunning beauty. Her white skin was marked with feather-like patterns, and her aloof eyes carried the majesty of a sovereign of birds.

    "Brother, this is Qing Ge," the Lion Duke introduced to Second Uncle.

    "Everyone''s gone. You can bring out that little fox now," Qing Ge said, her voice deep yet melodious.

    Second Uncle nodded, then had his son enter the vortex passage.

    About thirty breathster, a silver shadow emerged from the cold pool,nding before them with a ssh. They all turned to look and saw a young man with silver hair, fox ears, a fox tail, and delicate ws. He looked too delicate to be real.

    "Only four tails? An inferior bloodline?" Qing Ge frowned, irritation in her tone.

    Before she could finish, the silver-haired youth appeared before her, his hand hurtling towards her head.

    The speed and ferocity of his move startled Qing Ge.

    "You!" she eximed, raising her hand to block.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The impact sent her flying, crashing through several mountains and carving a several hundred meter long trench in her wake.

    "That''s one ferocious fox!" The Lion Duke''s jaw dropped.

    From his recollection, fox demons were frail creatures that relied on their charms to survive, especially the males who were seen as disgraces for appearing too effeminate. Typically, only powerful demonesses kept male foxes as pets.

    Yet, with one strike, this fox had just sent an Azure Phoenix like Qing Ge flying!

    Qing Ge belonged to the same generation as the Lion Duke. So, she could be considered an elder of the Primeval Demon Hell!

    However, what really stunned the Lion Duke was this fox''s boldness. He''d just shown up to join the Primeval Demon Hell and was already throwing punches. That was guts!

    "Stupid fox!" Qing Ge was livid, having been pped by a junior upon their first meeting.

    <em>BOOM!</em> She exploded in a ze of glory, transforming into a majestic Azure Phoenix. Her fiery aura lit up the sky, her splendid azure feathers blocking out the sun, her crown-like colorful crest atop her head. She was radiating and roiling with boundless deste power.

    "You''ve got some nerve!" Qing Ge screeched, diving down with talons and a beak sharp as swords.

    With a loud explosion, the ground around the cold pool crumbled to dust even before shended.

    Under the Azure Phoenix''s formidable presence, the silver-haired youth remained ice-cold. He shot up, transforming into a Four-Tailed Demon Fox, slicing through the air with a silver streak.

    When the fox and phoenix collided in the sky, a shocking sight unfolded! With brute strength, the fox pinned down the phoenix''s talons, bit its neck, and then mmed it to the ground.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The earth for miles around split open as mountains copsed!

    In the deepest part of the crater, the fox pinned down the phoenix. Despite its frantic struggles, shattering the ground, it couldn''t escape the fox''s overpowering hold, only managing to bleed from its efforts.

    "So what if I''ve got just four tails? Do you admit defeat?" the fox sneered, its icy silver gaze fixed on the phoenix.

    "Get lost!" the phoenix roared, tearing away in fury.

    With a thunderous crash, the fox, brimming with terrifying strength, pressed down again, leaving the phoenix drenched in blood.

    "How about now?" the fox taunted.

    "Stop, enough already!" the Lion Duke and Second Uncle cried out, exchanging nces filled with utter astonishment.

    These two devils suddenly turned into peacemakers, trying to give the phoenix a graceful exit.

    "Moon Fairy, thisdy is a big shot from the Primeval Demon Hell. She''s here to take you there..."

    "She''s an elder, she was just going easy on you. Let her go, will you?"

    The two were visibly squirming in difort.

    Who knew this fox would be so fierce, pinning his guide, an elder, to the ground?

    "Fine." Moon Fairy stood up, returning to human form.

    Across from him, the phoenix also reverted to her human shape. Clearly, she was worse for wearblood on her neck, twisted hands, and hair all in disarray. She red at Moon Fairy, teeth clenched in rage.

    "Take me to the Primeval Demon Hell," Moon Fairy said coolly.

    "Fine, let''s go!" Qing Ge was fuming, eyes red with anger.

    "Let''s move." Moon Fairy gave her a pat on the backside.

    <em>SMACK! </em>The sound was sharp, the impact bouncy.

    "You!" Qing Ge was so pained she was nearly in tears. "Just you wait, when we get to my ce, my aunt will pluck you bare!"

    "Heh." Moon Fairy grabbed her by the neck. "Lead the way."

    Bickering, the two vanished from the Lion Duke and Second Uncle''s sight.

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    "What in the world is up with that fox?" Second Uncle asked in a daze.

    "No idea," the bewildered Lion Duke muttered.

    Within the Imperial Pce of the Endless Netherworld was the renowned Windmoon Court.

    Behind this courtyard stood the Blood Devil Shrine. It appeared to be a modest hut, but it was actually a sacred site which held the blood legacy of the Yin Devil ancestors.

    Only the imperial bloodline could train within its hallowed walls.

    News of what urred in the Sword Ruins and the Nine Hells Conquest being pushed forward had finally reached the pce, creating quite the stir among the Yin Devil elites.

    They had all gathered in the Windmoon Court, deep in discussion, when the War Princess strutted in. d in tight leather clothing and a thick cloak, her eyes sparkled with determination and a regal air.

    "My little chili pepper, step back. Your uncles and I have important matters to discuss," a voice came from the highest position in the court.

    There sat a man in a violet and crimson brocade robe, the Netherworld Emperor himself. Even in the dim light, his stunning beauty was evidentdelicate fingers, snow-white skin, and eerily charming red lips. He was a man; yet he could be described with words like <em>alluring</em> and <em>ravishing</em>.

    His daughter, the War Princess, clearly inherited her stunning looks from him. He was the epitome of male beauty, looking more human than devil, a stark contrast to the Wick Devil.

    The Netherworld Emperor expected his daughter to listen to him, only to see her boldly step forward.

    "My matter is more important!"

    "Oh?" The Netherworld Emperor looked at her indulgently. "What is it?"

    "Two things," she said bluntly. "First, give me the Weeping Netherblood. Second, I want to train in the Blood Devil Shrine now."

    "This" This left the Netherworld Emperor momentarily speechless. He didn''t expect his daughter to make such a difficult request publicly.

    "Brother, agree to her request."

    "The Nine Hells Conquest sh is imminent. Let her strengthen herself quickly."

    "No one is more suited for the Weeping Netherblood than her."

    Several devils, sharing the Netherworld Emperor''s majestic aura, chimed in.

    The War Princess was surrounded by her uncles, who used to sigh and shake their heads at her, their high hopes turning into disappointment. But now, feeling guilty, they couldn''t do enough for their niece, almost willing to put her on a pedestal.

    "As everyone seems to agree, then" The Netherworld Emperor was about to concede when he was interrupted from the left by a remarkably burly devil. Standing a towering ten feet tall, d in thick gold and red armor, with massive curved horns on his head, this devil breathed heavily, more like a behemoth than a member of the refined imperial family.

    "Netherworld Emperor, the Weeping Netherblood is an Ignis grade treasure, one of the finest in the Endless Netherworld. It shouldn''t be given to the young so lightly. Of course, since the War Princess has awakened her Nine-Tiered Bloodline, an exception can be made," the burly devil boomed. "However, the Blood Devil Shrine has always been reserved for the ruler of the Endless Netherworld. It would be best to honor our ancestors and not break tradition so hastily."

    His statement was met with nods from several other powerful devils.

    "Why not grant her the Weeping Netherblood for now, and wait for her to ascend to the throne before entering the Blood Devil Shrine?" he proposed solemnly.

    "Nonsense!"

    "The rules don''t apply to someone with an awakened Nine-Tier Bloodline!"

    "The Nine Hells Conquest sh is upon us, why fuss over this? If she''s barred and something happens to my niece, will you take responsibility?"

    "Brother, if it''s that big a deal, step down for a bit and let my niece be the Netherworld Warden for a while."

    Their discussion left the War Princess bewildered, not expecting such vehement support from her uncles.

    "Silence," the Netherworld Emperor finally snapped, quieting them down. He turned to his daughter.

    "I don''t care! I''m going in. Anyone who tries to stop me will have to deal with me!" the War Princess said, puffing out her chest with a bold smile.

    Her blunt words sent shockwaves through the assembly, causing everyone to shrink back and nce nervously at the Supreme Devil Marshal.

    "So, it''s you who insists on not letting me in?" the War Princess coldly asked.

    The Supreme Devil Marshal,posed yet tense, replied, "Your Highness, your talent is a blessing for our kind, but we must still respect the wishes of our ancestors."

    "Our family''s Blood Devil Shrine is none of your business. Why the fuss? You manage the devil army and now you want to govern the shrine too? Are you aiming to be the Netherworld Warden?" the War Princess retorted icily.

    Caught off guard, the Supreme Devil Marshal bowed respectfully. "You misunderstand, Your Highness. I''ve dedicated my life to our cause, expecting nothing in return. Please do not make such a joke."

    "Cut the act. What will it take for you and your cronies to shut up?" The War Princess chuckled.

    Her harsh words brought the Endless Netherworld''s internal conflicts to light. She remembered well how the Supreme Devil Marshal and his followers had been the loudest when she was powerless.

    "My daughter, the Supreme Devil Marshal has toiled selflessly for our race. Don''t be too hard on him," the Netherworld Emperor interjected.

    "But Daaaaddy! I really want to enter the Blood Devil Shrine!" the War Princess whined.

    The Netherworld Emperor sighed and stood up. "If that''s what you want, then I''ll step down early and make you the Netherworld Warden."

    The announcement caused an uproar.

    "My lord...!" the Supreme Devil Marshal and others eximed, rising to their feet.

    "My decision is final, no more discussion," the Netherworld Emperor dered coldly.

    The Yin Devil elites were visibly confused. The Emperor, in his prime, abdicating? Was the entry of the War Princess into the Blood Devil Shrine that crucial? Or was the imperial family simply too indulgent with the princess?

    "Hold on!" the Supreme Devil Marshal suddenly interjected.

    "Do you still have objections?" The War Princess red at him.

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    "No objections to you, Your Highness. In fact, your rise is a blessing for our race," he said, then turned to the Netherworld Emperor. "However, by our ancestral rules, if the lord abdicates, the sessor must be at least in the Perfect Fate Ocean Realm. The princess is only in the Mid stage..."

    "Your son is in the Perfect Fate Ocean Realm, right?" The War Princess looked at a towering youth behind the Supreme Devil Marshal. "Bring him out. I''ll step on his face to be the next ruler of the Endless Netherworld!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 325: Collecting Old Debts!

    Chapter 325: Collecting Old Debts!

    When the War Princess spoke, all eyes turned to the young man.

    He was about thirty, in the prime of his life, with huge, curved horns on his head and dark red eyes. His body was as massive as a small mountain, and his vitality raged like a burning blood furnace.

    "Fen Nu," the Supreme Devil Marshal said, "Go up, and ept Her Highness'' order!"

    "Yes!" The young man, called Fen Nu, stepped forward, walking to the very center of the Windmoon Court.

    As he moved, his pitch-ck magic armor nked, adding an ominous air to the already solemn atmosphere. It was as if this wasn''t a pce, but a battlefield under hismand.

    Clearly, he didn''t see this as a mere spar, but as a war that would decide the future of the Endless Netherworld!

    Even without speaking, his eyes, movements, and demeanor challenged the War Princess''s authority.

    "Fen Nu was a genius even ten years ago."

    "He''s nearly twice the age of the War Princess and has fought in dozens of brutal battles against the Rising Sun Inferno, forging a steely character. His prestige in the military is... quite high," some elders whispered, exchanging nces that held a hint of bemusement.

    This was almost too childish!

    "The Nine Hells Conquest sh is chaotic. But thankfully, the Supreme Devil Marshal, with his clear head, stepped in to intervene. Otherwise, left to Her Highness'' whims, disaster will surely strike."

    "Talent is one thing, brains are another."

    In the Windmoon Court, the devils murmured among themselves, but their conversation was hushed.

    In this atmosphere of peculiar stares, the War Princess and Fen Nu stood in the court, their gazes shing like fire and water!

    On one side was a dazzling genius who awakened her Nine-Tiered Bloodline.

    On the other stood a peak-condition military devilmander!

    Even though Fen Nu''s lineage still belonged to the Yin Devils, he was more akin to the Yang Devils. He was fierce and unyielding, quite different from the delicate governing style of the Endless Netherworld''s imperial family.

    The Supreme Devil Marshal and his followers controlled most of the military power in the Endless Netherworld and often shed with the imperial family''s ideals.

    This conflict was not new!

    The War Princess''s crimson eyes coldly regarded Fen Nu. Past grievances and annoyances resurfaced, as her Mortal Dust Devil Blood coalesced into blood dragons, wrapping around her delicate frame, spreading a scent of blood and tyranny.

    Across from her, Fen Nu''s eyes burned fiercely, immovable as a mountain. As a man, his physical stature was nearly three times that of the War Princess, allowing him to look down upon her with an intense aura.

    "Your Highness, I await your instruction," Fen Nu said with a bow, his eyes fiercely fixed on the female devil before him. His words were polite, but his gaze was anything but.

    "Do you remember Feng Ling?" the War Princess suddenly asked, her eyes sharpening at the mention of the name.

    "I don''t know her. Who might that be, Your Highness?" Fen Nu replied.

    "A maid you toyed with until her death. Your father he brushed off her death, merely because she was a maid." the War Princess recalled, her heart stirring with a tempest of blood and fire at the memory of that woman.

    She''d been powerless back then, unable to awaken her Nine-Tiered Bloodline. With no status or authority, how could she protect her beloved maid?

    Fen Nu, the Supreme Devil Marshal''s son, was untouchable, and even the Netherworld Emperor wouldn''t risk a confrontation over a mere maid.

    This was the greatest regret of the War Princess'' life..

    "I remember now," Fen Nu said, a cruel smile creeping on his lips. "Indeed, she was just a maid. If Your Highness is in need, I can send some more delicate beauties your way."

    "No need!" The War Princess twisted her head and clenched her fists, her eyes zing with cold fury.

    "Your Highness, your Nine-Tiered Bloodline talent might be unparalleled in history. But you must ground yourself in reality. First turn your talent into strength. Don''t get too ahead of yourself," Fen Nu advised earnestly.

    "Ha, you dare lecture me?" In a sh, the War Princess transformed into a crimson blood dragon,unching a fist straight at Fen Nu''s face.

    "Hah! What can a mere woman do?" A sh of contempt in his eyes, Fen Nu raised his arm to block. His arms, thicker than the War Princess''s legs and shielded by magic armor, seemed imprable.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Their collision resounded like a thunderp.

    "What!?" Fen Nu was stunned, feeling not the dainty strike of a woman, but the charge of an army!

    <em>CRACK! </em>His armored arms shattered, blood streaking down as his massive body was flung back three hundred yards, plowing a bloody trail in the earth.

    "What?!" The rxed devils around him stood up in shock!

    Even the Supreme Devil Marshal, amid the crowd, narrowed his eyes, his brows furrowing deeply.

    "ording to historical records, the Nine-Tiered Bloodline shouldn''t be this powerful!" He had done his research, otherwise, he wouldn''t have stood in her way today.

    In contrast, the Netherworld Emperor and others remained unperturbed, as if they had anticipated this dramatic turn.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Fen Nu shook off the dirt and debris, sprang to his feet, and spat a mouthful of blood onto the ground. With a dark gaze, he looked at the fiery devil woman before him and said, "You really pack a punch."

    Then, he swiftly drew a six-foot-long blood-red battle saber, adorned with nine rings and pulsating with a bloody radiance. The saber''s cold gleam indicated it was at least a Silva grade magic treasure.

    "Fen Nu is being pushed to his limits!"

    He had underestimated the War Princess, and it was only natural he got a taste of his own medicine.

    "The real show is about to begin..."

    The devils cast nces at the two titans of the Endless Netherworld, the Netherworld Emperor and the Supreme Devil Marshal, as a silent storm brewed in their hearts.

    Fen Nu represented the future of the Supreme Devil Marshal, while the War Princess was the Netherworld Emperor''s future!

    The War Princess''s return with her unlocked talents had turned the tables, challenging the Supreme Devil Marshal''s dominance.

    "Fen Nu has the advantage of experience and strength."

    As expected, a fully unleashed Fen Nu was like a bloodthirsty beast. He roared and charged at the War Princess with his blood-red saber!

    As he swung his saber, the ground trembled, and a blood art technique transformed into fiery, blood-red mes, racing towards her.

    <em>BANG! </em>The ground between them shattered, and blood fire merged with rock, erupting like a volcano towards the War Princess!

    "Upper Silva grade blood art, Infernal Quake!"

    The devils were slightly startled. This blood art, a signature move of the Supreme Devil Marshal, could decimate a battlefield, and few present could wield it.

    Fen Nubined Infernal Quake with his saber technique, creating a dual assault on the War Princess!

    At that moment, she appeared cornered. Her imperial uncles were equally rmed.

    Yet, the War Princess herself only nced coldly at Fen Nu. <em>With him cultivating for me, you think you can block my rise?</em> She existed solely for Yun Xiao. In return, she could make all those who looked down on her pay!

    She had waited for this momentthe moment to prove herself to the entire Endless Netherworld!

    "Infernal Quake?" The War Princess, brimming with dominance, nted her long leg firmly on the ground. Her Mortal Dust Devil Blood surged, sending blood dragons diving into the earth!

    <em>ROAR! </em>A blood-red earth dragon, three times the size of Fen Nu''s Infernal Quake, erupted, crushing his blood art and rocketing towards him in the sky, biting viciously onto his body.

    "You!!" Fen Nu''s fierce face twisted in shock! How could she use Infernal Quake? And it was even stronger than his?

    Not just him, but all the devils, who had just settled down, stood up again, their faces a picture of bafflement!

    In a panic, Fen Nu swung his saber, unleashing a torrent of blood-red mes. His strike was like a falling gxy, shing with the blood earth dragon.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The tyrannical blood dragon shattered Fen Nu''s saber, sting him skyward!

    "AGHHH!" Fen Nu spat a mouthful of ck blood, his magic armor shattered, his body twisted by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, and his vitality burning away!

    "She''s only seventeen and just unsealed her powers. Even with the Nine-Tiered Bloodline, how could she be this powerful?!" Fen Nu''s heart raced, his face turning deathly pale!

    Then, as his heart pounded, the blood-red figure of the War Princess suddenly appeared before him, effortlessly grabbing his saber!

    The saber whimpered in her grip, utterly subdued and controlled by her.

    "I yield, Your Highness!" Fen Nu cried out in panic.

    "Yield my foot, beast!" The War Princess thrust the saber violently, piercing it through Fen Nu''s heart and out his back, blood gushing along its path.

    "Ugh!" Fen Nu grasped the de, powerless against her immense strength. He looked down at the saber, then at the War Princess, as blood poured from his mouth.

    "You... would kill me?" Fen Nu uttered tremulously.

    "You bet!" The War Princess yanked the saber out and grabbed his cor, ring at him. "In the afterlife, remember to bow down and beg Feng Ling for forgiveness!"

    "Just a maid, while my Fen Family has been a pir of the Endless Netherworld for generations..." Fen Nu murmured these words, his gaze fading into darkness.

    "Your so-called achievements be damned!" The War Princess seized his throat.

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>Beneath her jade-like hand, Fen Nu''s flesh and bones melted away like wax, his remains burning to ash that scattered over the Windmoon Court. His life force was absorbed by the War Princess, transformed into Mortal Dust Devil Blood, and devoured whole.

    In just three breaths, Fen Nu''s body dissipated between heaven and earth!

    Above, only the crimson, imperious figure of the War Princess remained. Wrapped in blood-colored dragon coils, shended back in the Windmoon Court. Her fiery red eyes swept over the crowd, meeting faces pale with shock and heavy breaths of disbelief.

    Silence fell.

    All eyes were on her, hearts quaking, minds storming.

    Finally, her gaze settled on the Supreme Devil Marshal, the titan of the Endless Netherworld. His lips tightly shut, face tense, eyes swirling with blood.

    "From this moment on, I call the shots in the Endless Netherworld. You stood against me today, and for that, your son''s life is the price. If I catch you forming factions, acting arrogant, or splitting our people again, it will be your own life forfeit."

    Her youth and inexperience were once hindrances, but her thunderous disy and iron-fisted threats, backed by the Netherworld Emperor, now cemented her authority over the elders.

    "Ah, that''s my little chili pepper." The Netherworld Emperor chuckled lightly. "She''s got quite the kick!"

    "Ugh! Shut up, Dad! Way to ruin the mood!" The War Princess shot back with a re.

    "Uh..." The Netherworld Emperor awkwardlyplied, "Yes, yes, yes."

    The ruler of the Endless Netherworld, publicly scolded by his daughter, a sight seemingly embarrassing, yet why did he look so content? Simple, his daughter''s talent exceeded his wildest dreams. This was a happy headache!

    The Supreme Devil Marshal, arrogant in his achievements, couldn''t be publicly subdued. But his unruly yet incredibly talented daughter, with her raw might, even put the Supreme Devil Marshal at a loss.

    "Old man, did you hear me?" the War Princess demanded coldly. She was channeling Yun Xiao''s experience from the Eternal Sword Prison, using overbearing methods to crush internal dissenters.

    Under her icy gaze, the Supreme Devil Marshal inhaled deeply and bowed his head. "Your Highness, I am wholly devoted to thend and its people, never intending to divide them."

    The War Princess spat disdainfully, then added, "You''d better be."

 Chapter 326: A Thousand Swords Soaring in the Sky!

    Chapter 326: A Thousand Swords Soaring in the Sky!

    His son was in in public. Yet, the Supreme Devil Marshal didn''t dare retaliate!

    This scene set the stage for the elite among the Yin Devils to understand the shifting sands in the Endless Netherworld.

    Head bowed, the Supreme Devil Marshal watched as the rise of the War Princess became unstoppable.

    Before this, many Yin Devils had been on the fence, but now they smiled upon the War Princess. They even suggested to the Netherworld Emperor that he abdicate, with no objections whatsoever.

    They all knew the Netherworld Emperor wouldn''t really let his daughter be the Netherworld Warden.

    It wasn''t until Fen Nu died that many realized the Netherworld Emperor''s suggestion of abdication was a trap for the Supreme Devil Marshal, cutting off his roots!

    The Supreme Devil Marshal had been duped, losing his son and reputation. He was practically finished. Who would dare support him now?

    "My daughter." Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, the Netherworld Emperor stood up and produced a magic treasure!

    It was a ck and red whip, covered in dragon scale spikes, gleaming with a cold light. The tip of the whip was like a long spear with barbs!

    A mere flick of the whip by the Netherworld Emperor tore through the air with a piercing sound that made scalps tingle.

    One look, and it was clear this was a weapon of mass destruction!

    "This Upper Ignis grade magic treasure, Weeping Netherblood, is now yours. It''s one of the strongest weapons in the Endless Netherworld, so take good care of it..."

    Before the Netherworld Emperor could finish, the War Princess grabbed Weeping Netherblood, saying, "Got it, stop nagging."

    An Upper Ignis grade weapon was almost on par with treasures like the Cmity Seal Sword. Even the Supreme Devil Marshal coveted such a weapon, tightly held by the imperial family.

    Now, it was hers. The War Princess wielded Weeping Netherblood, whipping it around her curvaceous figure in a visual feast.

    "Cough cough." She quickly wrapped herself in her heavy cloak, then said to the Netherworld Emperor, "What are you waiting for? Open the Blood Devil Shrine."

    "Yes, yes, yes." The Netherworld Emperor chuckled sheepishly, leading the War Princess deeper into the Windmoon Court, leaving the high-ranking Yin Devils behind.

    "There''s only one night left, I wonder if Her Highness can break through?"

    "She probably can."

    "But the Nine Hells Conquest sh is too treacherous. Now that an Exiled Sword Immortal has emerged, we better keep a low profile."

    In a world where monsters roamed, many found themselves lost in the chaos.

    "Six hours from now, we''ll head to the Immortal Asylum as scheduled. ording to the rules of the Nine Hells Conquest sh, all devils of a certain rank and above must attend. Those who qualify, get ready!" The voice of the Netherworld Emperor echoed from within.

    "Yes!" All the devils in the Windmoon Court dispersed.

    As the Supreme Devil Marshal left, he said nothing, but seemed to age a great deal.

    Before the War Princess stood a shrine, modest in size, a mere ten feet across. Inside, a fearsome devil statue loomed. It had horns, a tail, and a human-like body with a ferocious looking facebearing the features of Yin and Yang Devils.

    The statue was ck but glowed with a sinister red light. In the darkness, this glow was particrly eerie.

    "Why does the Blood Devil in the statue look like this?" the War Princess asked, eyeing the effeminate Netherworld Emperor beside her.

    "It''s said to be the true form of our race," the Netherworld Emperor replied.

    "Are the Yang Devils trying to take us over just to revert back to this form?" she asked coldly.

    "Not exactly. It''s just that their females aren''t as fetching as our girls," he said.

    "What disgusting brutes," the War Princess spat in disgust.

    "We''ve been fighting the Yang Devils for generations, just to preserve our lineage. Despite our efforts, countless girls from our borders are still taken..."

    "Damn it!" The War Princess was livid, unable to hide her fury.

    The female Yin Devils, with their unique beauty, were the envy of many. Strong in their own right, they were still vulnerable due to the overwhelming desire of others. Too many met tragic fates.

    Even within the Endless Netherworld, high-ranking officials traded their own for benefits in other realms, reducing them to mere ythings.

    "I knew about these things, but I couldn''t change them," the War Princess said bitterly.

    "Now, you certainly can," the Netherworld Emperor reassured her, patting her shoulder.

    "Yes! I''ll stand up for our women, control our fate, no longer mere objects!" she dered, fire in her eyes.

    "Go ahead," the Netherworld Emperor said with a smile.

    "Alright!" She nodded and approached the shrine.

    Stopping suddenly, she whispered, "Dad, have I finally made you proud?"

    "You''ve always been my pride, no matter what," the Netherworld Emperor said softly.

    "Finally..." Tears brimmed in her eyes. How many years had she longed for this moment? Her fists clenched, she felt a surge of courage, and she plunged into the statue, vanishing into it.

    After she disappeared, the Netherworld Emperor gazed deeply at the shrine, lost in thought.

    "Talent can be unleashed, but one doesn''t suddenly acquire power like this out of the blue... Who is behind her, guiding her steps?" he pondered.

    Since her return, every move she made seemed orchestrated, a stark contrast to her usual ways.

    As a father, how could he not know her? Yet, he dared not ask, uncertain whether this was a blessing or a curse.

    "At least, she can now pursue her ambitions..."

    .

    The War Princess found herself in a crimson space, a world drenched in blood.

    Blood pools, blood mist, blood steles. This was the Blood Devil Shrine!

    The blood pools contained the purest heartblood of ancestors, a potent legacy of their bloodline power.

    The blood steles bore the secrets of the most powerful blood arts of the Endless Netherworld, many long extinct. Even the Netherworld Emperor mastered only a few.

    "A fine ce," the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in her heart spoke just three words, echoing inside her.

    "Are you satisfied with my performance today?" the War Princess asked softly, looking down.

    "It''ll do," came the lukewarm reply.

    "Fine, let''s assimte the blood pool," she said.

    "Disrobe and enter," the voice in her heartmanded.

    "Alright."

    In the swirling blood mist, a sh of bare naked skin finally appeared. She bore a tantalizing charm that could make anyone drool. At least in terms of her beauty, she was supremely confident!

    Bathing in the blood pool, the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity swirled, transforming the ancestral blood into Mortal Dust Devil Blood, pulsing through her body.

    In a daze, she couldn''t help but ask, "Yun Xiao, will you ever fall in love with me?"

    Yun Xiao paused, then said, "Hmm maybe with your body. After all, it is exceptionally gifted."

    The War Princess blushed furiously, muttering, "You''re as vulgar as the rest!"

    "Thank you for thepliment."

    In the Sword Ruins, the light of daybreak descended, illuminating the world. A new day had dawned. It was the grandest day in the Nine Hells!

    Yun Xiao stepped out of the Golden Springs. "Another breakthrough. I''m at the Perfect Dao Heart Realm now."

    It had to be said that the growth of his Worldly Dao Heart was trickier than the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity or Will of Divine Destion, as it included aspects unique to Yun Xiao, not nned by the Creator Immortal.

    "Even after absorbing the Sword Souls of the Withered Bone Keeper and those other Overseers, my Sword Aura hasn''t grown much." Yun Xiao was now at 11,000yers of Sword Aura.

    He was the number one in the Nine Hells! However, the Sword Warden said there might be someone with a stronger Sword Aura in the Immortal Asylum.

    What puzzled Yun Xiao was how little people knew about the Immortal Asylum, despite being one of the Nine Hells. So little it was almost inconceivable.

    "People say those who enter the Immortal Asylum for cultivation rarely appear again. If not for their asional emergence in the Nine Hells Conquest sh, you''d think they''d vanished into thin air..."

    This wasn''t a recent phenomenon, but a longstanding mystery.

    "Such secrecy begs a firsthand look."

    Yun Xiao, Moon Fairy, and the War Princess were all heading to the Immortal Asylum!

    "Due to the nature of my body double and blood ve, they''ve be even more formidable than I am now."

    Yet, Yun Xiao was not worried. While his body double and the War Princess had reached the limits of the Nine Hells, his original self still had room to grow!

    There was still time before the Nine Hells Conquest sh!

    In the early twilight, Yun Xiao ascended on his Sovereign Sword, followed by over a thousand Sword Cultivators from the Fate Ocean Realm and beyond!

    A thousand swords soared into the sky!

    "Destination, Immortal Asylum!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 327: A New Mom!

    Chapter 327: A New Mom!

    In the heart of the Primeval Demon Hell, towering above the central mountain range, stood a colossal tree that rose high into the clouds, a lone giant in a forest of one.

    This towering tree, known as the Verdant Phoenix Cypress, was the grandest in all the Nine Hells. There was amon saying that the span of the Primeval Demon Hell was as vast as the canopy of the Verdant Phoenix Cypress.

    Long before the Nine Hells even took shape, a lineage of Azure Phoenixes thrived atop this tree, drawing on the Immortal energy and refining the essence of destion, paving their way to immortality and flourishing to this day.

    Under their guidance, the Primeval Demon Hell, dominated by birds, reigned supreme over all thend-based demons in the Nine Hells, carving out a realm of their own.

    Now, in the six terrestrial hells, if one were to measure by territory, the Primeval Demon Hell was by far thergest, almost double the size of the others. And in terms of inhabitants, thend demons outnumbered the human Sword Cultivators and Inscription Cultivatorsbined more than three times over. After all, some demons bred like rabbits, outpacing humans easily.

    So, even though there was only one terrestrial demon hell, the Primeval Demon Hell was still a force to be reckoned with.

    Moon Fairy! Moon Fairy!

    In the Primeval Demon Hell, only the demons of the Fate Ocean Realm and a select few gifted with extraordinary bloodlines could ascend the Verdant Phoenix Cypress.

    And at this moment, these elite demons of the Nine Hells were gathered at the highest branches, shouting the name "Moon Fairy!"

    Hidden among the tree''s leaves, various demons lurked in the shadowssome in human form, most in their original shapes. There were demons of all shapes and sizes. But they all had overwhelming demonic auras, their blood-red eyes deep as abysses.

    The demonic energy emanating from these creatures formed a dark miasma, enveloping the tree in a sinister hue. In the darkness, countless malevolent eyes focused on a certain fox.

    A Four-Tailed Demon Fox was considered lowly in the hierarchy of the Nine Hells. Yet, it had just defeated over ten Demon Generals. And just now, it had bested a Hell Demon!!

    Hell Demons were the true apex predators of the Primeval Demon Hell. Eachmanded a legion of 100 million demons. So, the young fox''s victory sent shockwaves through the demonic ranks.

    Everyone only knew this fox as Moon Fairy, his origins a mystery.

    Moon Fairy Off in the distance, a woman named Qing Ge watched with an intrigued gaze on the silver fox. Now in human form, he stood alone amidst countless onlookers, walking with an air of unruffled dignity.

    "With this fox on our side, our Primeval Demon Hell might just stand a chance in the Nine Hells Conquest sh!"

    "It''s not just about thepetition. This fox''s bloodline and talent suggest extraordinary potential. Even if he''s not an Exiled Sword Immortal, he should at least be on the level of the Endless Netherworld''s War Princess! If he continues to grow, our Primeval Demon Hell might just rise to dominance"

    Such words would onlye from the beasts and serpents, not the birds.

    In the skies of the Primeval Demon Hell, where birds and beasts reigned supreme, the Phoenix Empress was the epitome of awe. But even she couldn''t hold sway over the entirety of the Nine Hells. So, when Moon Fairy emerged as a potential game-changer, it stirred a mix of excitement and apprehension.

    The Primeval Demon Hell was in an awkward position. They were locked in a bitter, unending feud with the Sword Cultivators, yet unable to defeat them. It was a tough spot, made tougher by the fact that the three other major demon powers in the Nine Hells were sea demons, who, despite sharing amon disdain for Sword Cultivators, weren''t exactly chummy with the Primeval Demon Hell either.

    The Eternal Sword Prison was in the north of the Nine Hells, and the three oceanic hells were in the south. They were like distant neighbors who nodded in passing, but never paid a visit. Nor could the sea demons, out of their element, muster arge-scale assault.

    So, the Primeval Demon Hell was in a stalemate. They had no way of crushing the Eternal Sword Prison. In fact, if they ovemitted their resources and left themselves vulnerable, the first ones in the Nine Hells to seize the opportunity to attack them would be the sea demons.

    So life trudged along, cramped and gloomy, until the emergence of Moon Fairy sparked a glimmer of hope for the Primeval Demon Hell. Their wish list was simplewipe out the Sword Cultivators and put those sea demons in their ce. Achieve that, and they''d pretty much rule the roost in the Nine Hells, a feat so far only dreamt of.

    Post-battle, some Hell Demons asked Qing Ge whether the Phoenix Empress knew about Moon Fairy. As she was about to answer, a terrifying pressure suddenly descended, silencing all. "Our Empress..." whispered the demons, as they prostrated themselves under the overwhelming aura.

    Qing Ge, too, felt the shiver of fear and quickly knelt, warning Moon Fairy of the trouble brewing with her aunt''s arrival. But Moon Fairy, bold as brass, didn''t so much as bend a knee.

    "Kneel!" Qing Ge urged, but Moon Fairy stood tall, defiantly locking eyes with the arrival of the Phoenix Empress. The sky above turned a fiery azure, as if a sea of blue mes was pressing down. Even Moon Fairy''s silver fur began to singe, sending up wisps of blue smoke.

    Thousands of demonsy prostrate, drenched in sweat.

    Moon Fairy, sharp as a tack, realized something big. The Primeval Demon Hell might not be the top dog in the Nine Hells, but the Phoenix Empress was a whole different story. She was a powerhouse, one of the mightiest in the Nine Hells, and maybe even the mightiest demon of them all.

    To put it simply, the Phoenix Empress was the linchpin of the Primeval Demon Hell. There were no fancy sword arrays or ancestral gifts like the Eternal Sword or the Heavenly Mirror to fall back on here. If a scrap broke out, it was all on the Phoenix Empress''s shoulders.

    If the Sword Ruins lost their Sword Warden, they''d still have a fighting chance with their sword formations. But if the Primeval Demon Hell lost the Phoenix Empress, they''d be up the creek without a paddle. This precariousness was why the Primeval Demon Hell often found themselves at the bottom of the Nine Hells pecking order. Too dependent on top-tier powerhouses, any gap in leadership led to dire consequences.

    In contrast, the sea demons had a more stable inheritance, thanks to their unique domain which was nigh impregnable tond dwellers and sky-folk alike.

    That made the Primeval Demon Hell the most ferocious and desperate of the lot. They were the barefoot folks who weren''t afraid of those with shoes, thriving on sheer ferocity. The recent uptick in the Primeval Demon Hell''s fortunes? All thanks to the Phoenix Empress. She was an overwhelmingly powerful demon!

    Moon Fairy''s silver eyes zed with intense light. Gazing at the azure inferno in the sky, he could make out the brilliant azure plumage of the Phoenix Empress.

    "What a colossal demon!" he thought. Judging by the expanse of the fiery sea, the outline of her true form was unmistakable. Next to her, Forbidden Fate, who once shrouded the Heavenly Realm in demonic miasma, seemed like a mere chick.

    In terms of aura and majesty, there was simply noparison.

    Then, emerging from the fiery sea, a majestic phoenix head appeared, with a beak as blue as zed porcin and eyes like aquamarine crystals. Her gaze was fierce and domineering, and despite being a female demon, she radiated an air of supremacy over all.

    All her oppressive gaze was focused squarely on Moon Fairy.

    Phoenix and fox, no words exchanged. They locked eyes, a silent standoffsting a good thirty breaths.

    Throughout, Moon Fairy didn''t flinch. His gaze was like a vortex, absorbing all her pressure, rendering her attack as futile as punching cotton.

    "Not kneeling yet?" Qing Ge thought with glee. "This brazen, disrespectful little fox is about to get a harsh lesson on how the world works!"

    Many top demons witnessed this scene, sharing Qing Ge''s anticipation.

    In the world of demons, strength was the ultimate currency of respect, and the Phoenix Empress had earned her share in spades.

    Amidst a moment of eerie silence, the Phoenix Empress suddenly turned her head, her gaze sweeping over the gathered demons. Her voice, melodious yetden with an oppressive air, rang out, "This is Moon Fairy, my foster son, whom I''ve been nurturing in secret for many years."

    "Foster son?" The crowd of demons was initially stunned, then broke into relievedughter. They''d been worried about this talented fox''s mysterious origins, but now everything was wrapped up neatly with a bow.

    Qing Ge was bbergasted. She remembered reporting to her aunt that this fox hade from the Heavenly Land. How did he be a foster son?

    As she caught the relieved smiles among the demons, the penny dropped. The Phoenix Empress was using her authority to give Moon Fairy a credible identity, bridging the gap between her and this talented fox.

    Moon Fairy himself was taken aback. Well, that was straightforward. It reminded him of Lady Hua Lian, who imed to have raised him but referred to their rtionship as master and disciple, not mother and son.

    "...Mother," he ventured, his voice slightly hesitant.

    Just like that, he had a new mom! In the grand scheme of things, it didn''t really matter.

    The demons, their fears assuaged by this neat exnation, burst intoughter. If Moon Fairy was indeed her son, then even if he surpassed the Phoenix Empress in the future, it wouldn''t disrupt the delicate bnce between the birds and the beasts. After all, Moon Fairy was one of a kind and might not pass on his legacy, whereas the Azure Phoenix lineage was assured.

    The Phoenix Empress, her eyes glinting like azure ss, showed a flicker of amusement at Moon Fairy''s bold eptance.

    With a hum, the Phoenix Empress''s azure fire swirled around her, gradually condensing and converging before Moon Fairy. In no time, she transformed into a human form.

    She appeared as a ravishing beauty in a phoenix robe, her stunning visage and dignified, regal bearing enough to make cities fall and kingdoms kneel. Her phoenix eyes slightly upturned, exuding amanding aura that didn''t diminish her feminine charm. Her legs, long and graceful, were subtly visible beneath the robe''s slit, hinting at her wless, baster skin.

    As one of the top demons in the Nine Hells, she had cultivated her physical form to perfection. Underneath that delicate appearance was a beast among beasts, an embodiment of untamed power.

    Her demeanor blended regality with a touch of demonic allure, perfectly marrying the essence of both demon and sovereign.

    Moon Fairy couldn''t help but think, "Is it because I''m so talented that all the beautiful and powerful ones I meet are older sister types?" This was a thought that crossed Yun Xiao''s mind too.

    Looking back at his journey, the only astonishing and powerful <em>younger sister</em> he''d encountered was Chen Xi. Even the War Princess, despite her youthful age, had a fiery and enchanting demeanor more suited to be an older sister.

    "Moon Fairy," the Phoenix Empress called out, her voice authoritative and brooking no argument. "Come with me."

    Moon Fairy nodded. "Yes."

    As the newly minted mother and son duo ascended to a higher point on the Verdant Phoenix Cypress, the other demons watched their departing figures with burning eyes.

    "Once they''re alone, Auntie''s definitely going to give that little fox a good thrashing!" Qing Ge thought, her teeth gritted in anticipation.

 Chapter 328: A Prison for Immortals!

    Chapter 328: A Prison for Immortals!

    Moon Fairy wandered into a murky, dark azure fog, like stepping into a shadowy waltz with the unknown.

    In the midst of this enigmatic mist, the majestic Phoenix Empress, resplendent in her trailing phoenix robe, swayed like a willow in the wind. Her waist was so slender it seemed a single hand could encircle it, striking that perfect bnce between delicate and robust.

    Their journey was silent, the kind of quiet that spoke louder than words.

    Before long, they arrived at what could only be described as a bird''s nest, grander than any pce. This colossal nest was a masterwork of multicolored branches, hailing from realms unknown. Each twig and leaf zed with the wild mes of destion, turning the nest into a divine sanctuary of the wild.

    Undoubtedly, this was herir, the resting ce of the phoenix.

    "Enter," the Phoenix Empressmanded, her words as precious as gold.

    She vanished into the kaleidoscope of mes, with Moon Fairy trailing right behind. By the time he entered, she was already seated on a throne of fiery ss, casually crossing her legs. Her jade-like limbs swayed slightly as her piercing, azure gaze fixed on Moon Fairy.

    "So much Deste Essence" Moon Fairy was captivated by the rampant mes.

    "Hmm?" Then, he noticed, amidst the chaos, something stark and chilling. Bones. White as the bleakest winter, countless bones! There were tens of thousands, heaped inyers all around. Mostly skulls, not of devils or demons, but humans.

    Human skulls, piled into mountains within this nest, while the Phoenix Empress sat encircled by this macabre spectacle, her dark eyes adding a touch of the sinister.

    "She''s a demon!" Moon Fairy realized. He had been drawn in by her aura, but these grim bones snapped him back to a harsh reality. He felt a surge of difort. His soul was human! Seeing his kin in ignited a fire of sympathy, anger, and resentment within him.

    "These bones, aze with the fire of destion, clearly umted over eons.

    "The skulls of humans, alike in size, yet meticulously arrangeda true masterpiece of this world, don''t you think, Moon Fairy?" the Phoenix Empress asked, her icy beauty entuated as she lifted her head slightly.

    "A taste beyond the ordinary, Mother," Moon Fairy replied. He felt a surge of anger, but he knew now wasn''t the time to unleash it.

    Him calling her <em>mother</em> coaxed a delicateugh from the Phoenix Empress, augh that held a world of charm. "In all my life, unwed, and suddenly I have a grown son. Seems the heavens aren''t so stingy with me after all," she mused, her voice a gentle whisper.

    Moon Fairy, sensing a need to change the topic, asked, "Has someone been looking for you? My guess would be the Talisman Emperor."

    "Oh?" The Phoenix Empress had nned to delve into Moon Fairy''s past, but he turned the tables, asking about her first.

    With a slight arch of her brow, she replied, "Yes, someone dide looking. Do you have an opinion on that?"

    "I do! Whether it''s the Talisman Emperor or Wick Devil, their aim is to unify humans and devils. Humans and devils might band together, but we demons cannot. If we help them, we stand to gain nothing," Moon Fairy said, his voice calm and measured.

    "What do you suggest we do, then?" the Phoenix Empress asked.

    "Stand independent and observe the changes," Moon Fairy replied.

    "Right. Everyone wants to stay out of it, but if they seed, there will be no Sword Cultivators left to check us. Then, they''ll unite with the sea demons to settle scores with us, turning thisnd of the Nine Hells into their yground, except for the Immortal Asylum," the Phoenix Empress said coldly.

    Sea demons lived in their own corner, their territories meaningless to humans and devils. Butnd demons upied the fertilends of the Nine Hells, rich in resources coveted by the devils. Such was the difference between the two demon ns.

    "If you already know that the sea demons and devils will inevitably unite, then contributing now might not mean much. You might even end up as cannon fodder," Moon Fairy pointed out.

    At this, the Phoenix Empress''s gaze on Moon Fairy shifted. She let out a softugh and asked, "Are you here to point out problems or to solve them?"

    "I''m here to solve them," Moon Fairy dered, his eyes aze with determination. "If we y our cards right, we canpletely suppress the three oceanic hells. Even with the difference betweennd and sea, we can unify the demon ns."

    "I don''t have that power," the Phoenix Empress said bluntly.

    "I do," Moon Fairy replied, his gaze intense.

    "You''re quite bold," the Phoenix Empress said with a coldugh.

    "My boldness isn''t just in my words," he retorted.

    Taken aback, the Phoenix Empress''s eyes sparkled slightly. Suddenly, she beckoned, "Come here."

    Moon Fairy promptly moved to her side, sitting beside her. She carried a unique fragrance, a demon scent that, perhaps due to Moon Fairy''s own demon nature, he foundpletely aesthetic.

    He even found a certain enjoyment in it.

    "What did you say just a moment ago?" the Phoenix Empress asked suddenly, her jade finger lifting his chin, her domineering eyes locking onto the seemingly gentle but inwardly restless little fox.

    "Just give me Deste Essence, and I can make you the sole ruler of the demon ns in the Nine Hells," Moon Fairy said, staring into her eyes.

    "Not that line," she replied.

    "Which one, then?" he asked.

    "You said... your boldness isn''t just in your words," she murmured, her finger sliding down from his chest to his abdomen, a yful smile on her lips. "Little fox, you really are adorable."

    With that, she took control of Moon Fairy.

    He looked at her, dumbfounded, and asked, "Didn''t you just say you''ve never been wed?"

    "Who says an unwed woman can''t indulge in pleasures? I am an Empress of a n," she dered.

    He could only think, demons will be demons, and some human customs just didn''t apply to them.

    "The so-called mother-son rtionship is just for show. In this nest, you are my pet," the Phoenix Empress leaned closer, pulling at his robe, her voice icy yet seductive. "If you wish to conquer my heart and have me fight wholeheartedly alongside you, then conquer my body first."

    "..." He was speechless.

    "Brave ones do not fear temptation, cowards flee. Advance or retreat, your choice will define whether you''re a true sovereign or a weakling. What will it be?" She let go of the hem of his robe, her eyes brimming with provocation, as if toying with and challenging his resolve.

    "Wow." Moon Fairy suddenlyughed. He looked at her, shaking his head with amusement.

    "Why are youughing?" she asked with a yful smile.

    "Demons taking human form, how fascinating," he said. His gaze moved from her crystalline eyes downwards. "You were a bird, and now in human form, you''ve be a mammal."

    "So?" she probed.

    "Coincidentally, I''m a mammal too."

    "What in the world is going on?!"

    Moon Fairy had entered the Phoenix Empress''s nest, leaving a host of demons waiting outside, assuming the mother and son were plotting some grand scheme. But then, strange sounds began to emanate from within, growing louder by the moment.

    "Qing Ge, is this normal for them?" several Hell Demons asked, their embarrassment evident.

    "I have no idea!" Qing Ge''s face flushed a deep red, trying to make sense of the situation.

    Ultimately, viewing the society of demons through human eyes often lead to misunderstandings. But to the demon collective, the Phoenix Empress''s foster son was like a cherished child raised from youth.

    "This might actually be a good thing," they murmured among themselves, reaching a consensus. "Strengthening their bond could only benefit the unity of our demon kind."

    Come dawn, before 7 AM, the brilliance of the rising sun already bathed thend in its glow. Through the dense clouds, a thousand gleaming sword lights sliced through the heavens, a testament to the Sword Cultivators'' valor.

    At the forefront was Yun Xiao, who descended like an Immortal among mortals. The journey was smooth, the skies calm, but Mu Dalong noticed something off about Yun Xiao. His face was unusually flushed, and his breathing seemedbored.

    "Exile Yun, are you feeling alright?" Mu Dalong asked with concern.

    "Just a small cough," Yun Xiao replied, trying to focus on controlling his Sovereign Sword. But it was hard; sharing a soul with his other half, the passionate experiences there inevitably affected him here.

    "Oh, okay" Mu Dalong nodded, still a bit puzzled. Her gaze drifted downwards unintentionally, and her cheeks suddenly turned a shade of red. "Young people these days, so full of vigor. Even after a restless night, they''re ready to break through the winds at dawn, aren''t they?"

    Clearly, while most soared on their Sovereign Swords, Yun Xiao chose to ride the winds with a pair of swords, a spectacle as unique as it was impressive.

    Finally, the outline of the Immortal Asylum loomed ahead, marking the end of the fierce battle within the top of the ancient Verdant Phoenix Cypress. The skirmish had quieted down, a testament to the might of those who cultivated their physical bodies. Had it not been for his Divine Destion Physique, Yun Xiao might not have held his ground.

    But what choice did he have? The Phoenix Empress had thrown down the gauntlet, even calling him a <em>soft pup</em>. To not fight back would have been to bend his own spiritual path.

    "The Phoenix Empress is clever, alright," Yun Xiao mused. "My body double''s talents clearly shook her. She kept a stoic facade but was dead set on binding my double."

    True to her title, the Phoenix Empress didn''t mess around. She got straight to business.

    Yun Xiao maintained a clear distinction between his true self and his body double. Each had their own journey, their own fate, and they did not interfere with one another.

    The adventures of Moon Fairy, his body double, were just another life experience. His true affections remained with his original self.

    "No matter what, I''ve got what I came forthe Deste Essence."

    Now, as his true self, Yun Xiao could finally enter the Immortal Asylum in a normal state. Looking towards the horizon, he saw a massive, pitch-ck fortress rising among the mountains, resembling a colossal iron stump.

    This fortress was immense, its sizeparable to the expanse of the Sword Ruins. Unlike the Ruins, which boasted 999 sword peaks, this fortress was a single, solid massa gigantic structure.

    "Is that the Immortal Asylum?" Yun Xiao asked Mu Dalong.

    "Yes," she nodded.

    Other realms of the Nine Hells were ten times the size of the Divine Continent, but this Immortal Asylum, while small as a realm, was enormous as a structure. It was like a closed, super-massive city unto itself.

    It was dark, bizarre, and eerily foreboding!

    The closer they got, the more massive it appeared.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Just then, the Immortal Asylum trembled violently, shaking the ground around it and sending a deafening roar of a beast echoing through the heavens and earth. The massive ck iron stump seemed on the verge of bursting open.

    "What''s inside there?" Yun Xiao asked, furrowing his brow.

    "Since ancient times, the Immortal Asylum has held a ferocious beast known as the Nian, also called the Beast of Cmity. It''s said to possess world-annihting power, truly terrifying. Every ten years, the Nine Hells hold apetition to determine the <em>ruler</em> for the next decade. Coincidentally, every ten years, the Nian awakens."

    After Mu Dalong finished exining, she smiled at Yun Xiao and added, "But Exile Yun need not worry. The Nian is just a legend. No one has ever seen it. Even if it exists, it cannot break out of the Immortal Asylum. It has never affected the Nine Hells."

    "A cmitous beast that hasn''t turned into a demon?" Yun Xiao found this curious.

    Once beasts became demons, they gained intelligence, rapidly increasing in wisdom, and slowly shedding some of their wild instincts to learn from humans. But a beast that hadn''t transformed, no matter how strong, was just a savage beast.

    "Every time the Nine Hells Conquest sh is held, the Nian roars and rages below, shaking the earth. However, it only adds to the tense atmosphere and has no impact on thepetition," Mu Dalong exined again.

    "I understand," Yun Xiao said, not delving further.

    But at that moment, Blue Star suddenly became excited.

    "This is fascinating! Incredibly so!" he eximed.

    "What is?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "This Immortal Asylum is actually an Immortal artifact! A true Immortal prison, which shouldn''t exist in this mortal world!" Blue Star revealed.

    "An Immortal artifact?" Yun Xiao was stunned.

    "Yes! What we see above ground is just the first floor. If I''m not mistaken, there are seventeen more floors buried underground. That Nian is just a prisoner on the first floor, a felon of the Immortal path. Below, the seventeen floors might hold other ferocious creatures or perhaps even true Immortals!" Blue Star exined.

    "How did this thing end up here?" Yun Xiao wondered in amazement.

    "I don''t know..." Blue Star popped out of Yun Xiao''s chest and gazed towards the Immortal Asylum. Then he suddenly said, "I get it now! This entire Nine Hells realm is an Immortal prison. No wonder the people of the Immortal Asylum don''te out. They''re the jailers!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 329: Ark Traversing Countless Worlds!

    Chapter 329: Ark Traversing Countless Worlds!

    "A prison? Jailers?" Yun Xiao nced towards the direction of the Immortal Asylum.

    Although located in the heart of the Nine Hells, the asylum exuded an eerie and sinister aura, clearly not a ce for the faint-hearted. The air was thick with resentment.

    "Such a massive structure, and it''s an Immortal artifact?" Yun Xiao mused, noting that even the part of the asylum emerging above the ground was colossal.

    "It''s shaped like a hellish column, eighteen floors in total," Blue Star exined.

    "Sounds like eighteen levels of hell, each imprisoning its own prisoner?" Yun Xiao wondered aloud, his curiosity piqued.

    "Not necessarily just one. Could be a whole gang," Blue Star replied.

    "Can I get my hands on this thing?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    "How should I know! Just go in and figure it out," Blue Star responded, rolling his eyes.

    The truth of the Immortal Asylum remained a mystery, even to the likes of the Sword Warden.

    The focus of the Sword Ruins remained on the Nine Hells Conquest sh. The current headache was how to protect Yun Xiao from the assassination attempts of the other hells.

    The roar of the Nian echoed wildly, causing thends within a hundred miles of the asylum to tremble. But such disturbances had be routine.

    Yun Xiao decided to put that aside for the moment and turned to Mu Dalong, asking, "By the way, if we win the Nine Hells Conquest sh, what''s in it for us?"

    His question nearly caused a few to choke on their spit.

    "Exile Yun, you don''t even know this and you''re participating in the battle of the Nine Hells?" Mu Dalong didn''t know whether tough or cry.

    "You didn''t tell me," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Uh..." Mu Dalong was at a loss for words.

    Everyone had assumed Yun Xiao knew what he was doing, not realizing he waspletely clueless.

    "It''s okay, there''s still time to answer," Yun Xiao reassured. With time of the essence for him, every quarter of an hour was as precious as a day. Such oversights were bound to happen.

    "It goes like this..." Mu Dalong began, speaking softly, "The Nine Hells Conquest sh is organized by the Immortal Asylum, happening once every ten years. The hell that wins bes the Nine Hells Conqueror for the next decade."

    "Does bing the Conquerore with any perks?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Absolutely," Mu Dalong replied seriously.

    "And what might those be?"

    "Did you know that the Nine Hells is semi-closed? Most beings are not allowed to visit here, and we''re not allowed to visit other worlds either!" Mu Dalong inquired.

    "I didn''t. Does this rte to the benefits?" Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "It does. Only the winner of the Nine Hells Conquest sh can venture outside. That''s the first perk," Mu Dalong exined.

    Yun Xiao, though he didn''t ask why, surely knew it had to do with the Immortal Asylum.

    After all, if it was a prison, allowing the inhabitants to wander around freely wasn''t exactly on the table.

    "The path of cultivation frowns upon istion. The ability to exchange doctrines and trade resources with the outside is crucial. Otherwise, working in istion can lead to being out of touch with the times," Mu Dalong said with a hint of resignation.

    "True enough," Yun Xiao agreed, then asked, "What else?"

    "The Nine Hells Conqueror also enjoys a set of traditional privileges, like mining rights in unimed areas and harvesting rights for spiritual herbs. Even just for ten years, these can bring in a substantial amount of extra resources," Mu Dalong paused for a moment, "And most importantly, the winner has the right to collect<em> Immortal Tax</em> from the other hells. It''s an annual collection, and in ces like the Eternal Sword Prison, it''s not just from the Sword Ruins, but every Sword Cultivator contributes... All those people add up to a considerable sum."

    "Who decided this?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "The Immortal Asylum," Mu Dalong responded.

    "Why should the other eight hells listen to them?" Yun Xiao wondered.

    External interactions, extra resources, Immortal Taxes... these three benefits were indeed substantial, enough to strengthen an entire hell within a decade!

    "Because, in name, it''s the battle of the Nine Hells, but in reality, it''s just the eight, with the Central Heaven Immortal Asylum acting more like a referee... So, some of these benefits were actually proposed by the eight hells themselves. The stronger the hell, the more they want to reap," Mu Dalong shook her head.

    Now, Yun Xiao understood.

    It wasn''t that the Immortal Asylum had authority over the other eight hells. Instead, within their ownpetitive struggles, they needed a set of rules to determine the winner and reap the benefits.

    Otherwise, thepetition for resources would devolve into war, bringing cmity to all beings.

    "The Nine Hells Conquest sh is a miniature war under a set of rules. The victor reigns supreme for ten years," the Sword Warden reflected.

    "Who''s been the Nine Hells Conqueror for the past decade?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Talisman Emperor," the Sword Warden replied.

    "Him?" Evidently, the current might of the Cmity Seal Purgatory was also tied to these ten years of supremacy.

    "Our Eternal Sword Prison hasn''t been the champion for a long time. In thest millennium, it''s mostly been a rotation among the Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, and the Undead Depths, with the asional victory by the other hells," the Sword Warden exined.

    "Even with the Talisman Emperor as the Nine Hells Conqueror, I haven''t seen much respect for him," Yun Xiao noted.

    "The difference in strength between the hells isn''t that vast. It''s already impressive that the Talisman Emperor reaped benefits for a decade. Yet, he expects to be revered like a true Emperor of the Nine Hells? That''s hardly realistic. Without the bnce maintained by the Immortal Asylum, the Nine Hells Conquest sh wouldn''t even be feasible," the Sword Warden stated matter-of-factly.

    "I see," Yun Xiao nodded in understanding.

    Winning the battle of the Nine Hells, while not making one a true Emperor of the Nine Hells, was undeniably significant. It was a virtuous cycle! Victory begot more sess and a brighter future for the victor. If Yun Xiao could clinch thispetition, he''d be setting up the Eternal Sword Prison for a decade of prosperity.

    "Forget everything else, the mere act of collecting Immortal Taxes from the other seven hells is a hefty perk," Yun Xiao remarked. From another angle, after a decade, the Cmity Seal Purgatory and the Talisman Emperor had to be rolling in riches.

    "If the Inscription Cultivators extend their golden era for another ten years, our pressures will mount. Soon, my old man will retire, and with Qingzan returning, the future of the Sword Cultivators looks murky," Mu Dalong expressed her concerns.

    Yun Xiao fell silent for a moment before asking, "So, how is this battle of the Nine Hells fought exactly?"

    "The rules change yearly, and the Immortal Asylum decides," the Sword Warden said, looking towards the dark, icy column. "But one thing''s for sure, the Immortal Asylum''s reputation for fairness and justice has always been reliable."

    The authority of the Immortal Asylum ensured that all parties epted the oue of the battle. If even one refused, centuries of tacit understanding would crumble, leading to a real war for interests  something many cultivators, demons, and devils dreaded.

    "We''re almost there."

    As they discussed, the vast Immortal Asylum loomed ahead. Stretching out was a colossal ck wall, seemingly endless in every direction. Its height rivaled the tallest peaks of the Sword Ruins.

    As thousands of Sword Cultivators approached, Yun Xiao could see a dark figure waiting beneath the Immortal Asylum.

    "That''s a Sword Cultivator from the Immortal Asylum, named Mo Jianzhi," the Sword Warden introduced to Yun Xiao.

    "What kind of strength does he possess?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Unknown," the Sword Warden replied, ncing in that direction. "All we know is that he looks exactly the same as he did ten years ago, as if he hasn''t aged a day."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao focused his gaze, observing a man in the ck sword robe, hisplexion as pale as parchment, resembling a long-frozen corpse just thawed, with lifeless eyes.

    Upon seeing him, the thousand Sword Cultivators from the Sword Ruins in the Fate Ocean Realm tensed up, their expressions solemn.

    "I am Mo Jianzhi, wee fellow daoists from the Eternal Sword Prison," the ck-robed swordsman greeted with a bow, his voice dry.

    "Brother Mo," the Sword Warden greeted, sheathing his sword and returning the bow.

    "This year, the Eternal Sword Prison enters through the <em>Radiance Gate</em>. Here are the tokens," Mo Jianzhi said, producing a hefty Bag of Holding.

    "Thank you, Brother Mo." The Sword Warden caught the Bag of Holding and opened it, revealing tokens inscribed with the character for <em>Radiance</em>. He began distributing these tokens, ensuring each Sword Cultivator received one.

    "The battle of the eight hells corresponds to the Eight Trigrams. The Immortal Asylum has eight gates, with each hell entering through a different gate," Mu Dalong exined to Yun Xiao.

    Given this, there would naturally also be a <em>Force</em>, <em>Open, Shake</em>, <em>Ground</em>, <em>Gorge, Bound</em>, and <em>Field Gate</em>.

    "Understood." Yun Xiao took a token, weighed it in his hand for a moment, then hung it at his waist.

    "Lastly, the number of trigram tokens could be key to victory," Mu Dalong reminded in a low voice.

    Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Is this Exile Yun?" Mo Jianzhi suddenly turned his attention to him, his eyes gray and lifeless.

    "Senior Mo, I''ve heard much about you," Yun Xiao said.

    "You''ve only been in the Nine Hells for a few days, not long enough to hear much," Mo Jianzhi replied.

    Yun Xiao smiled without saying much.

    "Follow me." After speaking, Mo Jianzhi turned and walked towards the Radiance Gate of the Immortal Asylum. The gate, associated with fire, zed like a hellish inferno, making Mo Jianzhi''s ghost-like figure seem even more unsettling as he entered.

    "Let''s follow." The Sword Warden motioned for everyone to proceed, then quickened his pace to catch up with Mo Jianzhi, asking, "Brother Mo, why has the Immortal Asylum pushed forward the date of the Nine Hells Conquest sh?"

    Mo Jianzhi''s expression tightened slightly as he replied in a low voice, "Because the Primordial Ark has arrived early."

    "The Primordial Ruins?" The Sword Warden''s face showed surprise, a sense of awe washing over him. "Is it the legendary vessel that travels through countless worlds, a moving Immortal Empire?"

    "Correct," Mo Jianzhi confirmed.

    "So, the new Nine Hells Conqueror will have the privilege to board this divine vessel that traverses thousands of worlds?" the Sword Warden asked, his eyes shining.

    "Merely to go up and take a look," Mo Jianzhi said calmly.

    "That would be the dream of a lifetime for any cultivator!" the Sword Warden eximed.

    "Mhm." Mo Jianzhi nodded.

    Behind them, Yun Xiao overheard their conversation.

    "Primordial Ruins?" He remembered that the Central Heaven Immortal Asylum had another nameImmortal Ruins. "So, does this moving world vessel have something to do with the Immortal Asylum?"

    Most importantly, anything with <em>Primordial</em> in its name surely had connections to that Ancestral God.

    Yun Xiao looked down at the stone in his hand. "I''m starting to miss her."

 Chapter 330: Annihilate the Sword Cultivators!

    Chapter 330: Annihte the Sword Cultivators!

    The Seven Day Peak was an ancient mountain situated close to the Immortal Asylum. It was unremarkable in itself, yet a focal point because of the number <em>seven</em> in its name. As dawn broke, shadows darted through the night, converging upon this peak from the various hells.

    From the east was a horde of Yang Devils, looking like they''d just stepped out of a volcano. They were robust and fierce, their breath scorching the air like magma.

    In the west was a battalion of 2,000 humans adorned in inscription etched, multicolored robes. They soared through the sky, leaving trails of shimmering arcs.

    These formidable forces represented the Cmity Seal Purgatory and the Rising Sun Inferno, each member a steward of countless souls, theirbined might capable of sweeping through the Nine Hells.

    Silent yet seething with battle intent, the two forces stood among the gullies and shadows of the Seven Day Peak. Particrly the Yang Devils, their ferocity zed like an inferno!

    Leading these legions were the two tyrants of the Nine Hellsthe Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil. They met atop the mountain, exchanging smiles, not words, waiting for more to arrive.

    Soon, more did arrivea group of 1,000 Yin Devils.

    "It''s them!"

    The eyes of the Yang Devils shone like zing orbs in the shadows. They watched the elegant devils from the Endless Netherworld with arrogant disdain.

    The two long-standing foes merely crossed paths. Though the air was tense, no fighting broke out.

    At the mountain''s summit, the Wick Devil, his eyes like twin furnaces, greeted the newly arrived Netherworld Emperor with a grin. "Long time no see, brother. All''s well, I hope."

    The Netherworld Emperor simply cast him a nce. He stood tall and coldly among the Yin Devils, uninterested in small talk.

    The Wick Devil was undeterred, his gaze sweeping past the Netherworld Emperor and his brothers, before finally resting on a Yin Devil girl.

    "Is this my niece?" he mused, "With her Nine-Tiered Bloodline, she''s extraordinary. The future of our devil kin rests with her. Congrattions, brother."

    "Congrattions to your great uncle, you fool," the War Princess couldn''t help but coldly scoff.

    She had a particr disdain for these Yang Devils, especially the Wick Devil. The hatred between them was so vast, it couldn''t be contained in a single book. Yet, here they were, feigning civility. Who were they kidding?

    Her remark instantly set the Yang Devils aze with fury, their faces contorted with rage, growling and ready to lunge at her.

    "Oh, how adorable, my little niece is so fiery." The Wick Devil chuckled, amused. With a mere gesture, he calmed his minions. Their eyes, however, remained cold and aggressive, particrly when gazing at the female Yin Devils, their invasive intent never hidden in centuries.

    "The Azure Phoenix Empress has arrived," the Talisman Emperor suddenly announced, interrupting the escting tension.

    With a roar, a mass of dark, demonic clouds descended, shrouding the entire Seven Day Peak. Sinister beasts of the Nine Hells descended, transforming into human forms and blending into the crowd.

    A flock of Azure Phoenixes swooped down, and among them was a striking silver fox.

    The Phoenix Empress, in her flowing azure dress, gracefullynded between the two devil factions. Her appearance was radiant and alluring, while the silver fox transformed into a handsome, silver-haired young man by her side.

    "You grow ever more enchanting," the Talisman Emperor said, his eyes briefly scanning her figure. Qingzan, standing nearby, seemed slightly displeased.

    "You tter me, Talisman Emperor. I see you still remain the Nine Hells'' most dashing smoothtalker," the Phoenix Empress responded.

    The Talisman Emperor smiled, then turned to Moon Fairy. "And who might this be?"

    "My foster son, Moon Fairy," she introduced.

    The crowd of humans and devils exchanged nces.

    "It''s a pleasure to meet you, seniors!" Moon Fairy greeted, an amicable and dashing grin on his face. "Gathered here to decide the fate of that Exiled Sword Immortal, are we?"

    "Hush, child, and step aside," the Phoenix Empress scolded.

    "Yes, Mother," heplied, casting her a nce but couldn''t resist adding, "Anyway, I do hope the Sword Cultivators meet their end this time. Thank you all in advance!"

    The crowd chuckled at Moon Fairy''s cheekiness.

    "Your adopted son is quite earnest." The Talisman Emperor chuckled.

    "A boy''s mischief, I apologize for the embarrassment he''s caused," the Phoenix Empress replied.

    "No need to apologize. After all, the Sword Cultivators are cruel; it''s only natural for the demons to hate them," the Talisman Emperor said solemnly. "But as members of the Nine Hells, we share amon root and should care for each other. This issue with the Exiled Sword Immortal is the folly of a few people. We just need to remove them to restore peace in the Nine Hells. We shouldn''t harm the ordinary Sword Cultivators."

    "You''re right," the Phoenix Empress agreed, shooting a re at Moon Fairy. "Did you hear that?"

    "I don''t care, I want them all gone," Moon Fairy muttered, head down.

    Laughter filled the air again.

    "We can''t eliminate them all, but killing a few to teach the rest a lesson is reasonable..." the Wick Devil said, his voice deep and chuckling.

    "Fine, we''ll kill more then. Starting with those surnamed <em>Mu</em>," the Talisman Emperor said, his eyes glinting as he turned to the Yin Devils. "Netherworld Emperor, we three hells are united in this cause. What about you?"

    "The Exiled Sword Immortals sowed chaos in the Nine Hells; they deserve their fate. We of the Endless Netherworld share in this responsibility," the Netherworld Emperor dered.

    "That settles it," the Talisman Emperor concluded, looking north. "The Eternal Sword Prison ignored our warnings and chose this path, uniting the other seven hells against them. We''ll wait for the three sea demon powers to join us, then we''ll head into the Immortal Asylum together!"

    The sea demons'' disdain for the Sword Cultivators matched that of Moon Fairy. So, there was no need for further discussion.

    And so, the alliance of the seven hells was officially formed.

    In the crowd, the War Princess sneaked a nce at Moon Fairy. He was mingling with the elders from various factions, clearly a favorite among them.

    "This guy, always ying the clown," she thought, feeling a bit perplexed.

    What kind of person was he, really? One moment he was aloof and cold; the next, he was ying tricks on others!

    In her mind, only one word summed him upbaffling!

    Amidst ghostly mes burning all around, Yun Xiao, apanied by 1,000 Sword Cultivators, traversed a deep, shadowy corridor. The roar of the Nian echoed, causing the entire Immortal Asylum to tremble. Many Sword Cultivators, intimidated by the ferocity of the beast, were dripping with sweat.

    "There''s talk that the representatives from the other seven hells first gathered at the Seven Day Peak, plotting in secrecy, before entering the Immortal Asylum together..."

    For these Sword Cultivators, this was akin to a signal of impending doom. Logically, they should''ve been scared off by now.

    However, the miracles brought forth by Yun Xiao were too staggering. Even in this dire moment with no glimmer of hope, as he led them forward with no fear, they followed, steadfast and determined.

    Not even five Sword Wardens could inspire the kind of faith Yun Xiao did.

    As the footsteps of the Sword Cultivators echoed in the vast space, their heartbeats were strong and steady. They ignored the howls of the Nian, their Sword Hearts unwavering.

    Up ahead, a light appeared, revealing an immense battlefield in the shape of the Eight Trigrams. The Sword Cultivators stood at the <em>Radiance </em>position, while the other seven directions were yet unupied.

    "The Eternal Sword Prison is the first to arrive. Please get ready!" Mo Jianzhi turned and spoke.

    "Thank you!" The Sword Warden bowed in gratitude.

    In the distance, the sounds of powerful beings from the other hells stepping into the Immortal Asylum could be faintly heard.

    "As soon as they arrive, the Nine Hells Conquest sh will begin. Good luck." With this, Mo Jianzhi soared up to a white jade tform floating above the battlefield.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see that, apart from Mo Jianzhi, three other enigmatic figures were present on the white jade tform...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 331: 900 Battles!

    Chapter 331: 900 Battles!

    Mo Jianzhi made his way to the trio, a curious assemge that caught Yun Xiao''s eye. He sized them upan Inscription Cultivator, a demon, and a devil. "With Mo Jianzhi, that represents all four races of the Nine Hells," he mused to himself.

    First, his gazended on the female Inscription Cultivator. She was a sightpetite, draped in oversized clothes that hung off her like a child ying dress-up, and her hair in a wild disarray. She stood there, a bit awkwardly, nibbling on some ck beans with a crunch that echoed in the still air. Eyes closed, her longshes seemed to stitch her eyelids together, a delicate embroidery of solitude.

    "That''s Shen Xiaochan," Mu Dalong whispered, a walking encyclopedia of gossip. "She used to be with the Cmity Seal Purgatory but turned rogue for some melodramatic reasons and joined the Immortal Asylum. Had a whole soap opera with the Talisman Emperor once, but that''s ancient history."

    "She looks a bit young, doesn''t she?" Yun Xiao remarked casually.

    "Legend has it, she hasn''t aged a day since joining the Immortal Asylum," Mu Dalong replied, a tinge of envy in her voice.

    "Ageless, maybe, but seems like she''s lost her human touch," Yun Xiao observed.

    "Perhaps," Mu Dalong agreed thoughtfully.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze shifted to the other two envoys from the Immortal Asylum. One was a towering figure, d in thick, dark armor, with only a pair of crimson eyes visible. Definitely a devil, silent and immovable like a dark monolith.

    Thest one was downright eeriea baby, about six months old, plump and giggling innocently, reaching out for a hug. A heartwarming scene, if it weren''t for the fact that most Sword Cultivators found it utterly spine-chilling. This was no ordinary baby, but a demon!

    "That''s the Dream Demon, feeds on souls through nightmares. Used to wreak havoc in the Nine Hells before being tamed by the Immortal Asylum. It''s never left since then," Mu Dalong exined, then shifted her gaze towards the armored devil, "As for him, he''s called Kun Jiang. A mysterious devil, not from the Nine Hells."

    Yun Xiao pondered the introductions. "The Immortal Asylum... not to be underestimated," he thought. "But as long as they don''t meddle in my affairs, their strangeness is none of my concern."

    For now, Mo Jianzhi, Shen Xiaochan, the Dream Demon, and Kun Jiang, the four from the Immortal Asylum, showed no malice towards Yun Xiao.

    The stage was set, a grand theater of sorts, awaiting the grand entrance of the other hells. The sounds and murmurs hinted they were already on their way.

    Yun Xiao, ever observant, craned his neck to survey the arena shaped like the Eight Trigrams, with eight distinct gates, including the one for the Sword Cultivators.

    Above each gate loomed a giant character, shimmering with anticipation as the representatives of the other seven hells drew nearer.

    "The Cmity Seal Purgatory has arrived," someone announced, eyes sharp as des focusing on one particr gate adorned with the majestic character <em>Force. </em>The calligraphy resembled dragons and phoenixes in flight, embodying the very essence of the heavens.

    This was the <em>Force Gate</em>, the first of the Eight Trigrams, symbolizing the sky. The Inscription Cultivators emerging from this gate were nothing less than the pride of humanity.

    The eight gatesForce, Field, Ground, Shake, Gorge, Radiance, Bound, and Openrepresented the rankings of the eight hells in the previous Nine Hells Conquest sh.

    <strong>1st</strong>: The Inscription Cultivators symbolized the heavens of the Nine Hells.

    <strong>2nd: </strong>The Yang Devils of the Rising Sun Inferno embodied the earth of the Nine Hells.

    <strong>3rd: </strong>The Undead Depths were the winds of the underworld.

    <strong>4th: </strong>The Primeval Demon Hell represented the thunder of the ancient times.

    <strong>5th: </strong>The Leviathan Ravine stood for the water of the deep seas.

    <strong>6th: </strong>The Eternal Sword Prison served as the fire.

    <strong>7th: </strong>The Yin Devils of the Endless Netherworld acted as the mountains.

    <strong>8th: </strong>The denizens of the Reverie Abyss stood for the marsh.

    As the Force Gate lit up, 2,000 Fate Ocean Realm Inscription Cultivators stepped through, their faces bearing the glory of being the first among the Nine Hells. Their demeanor, a product of deep-rooted heritage and pride.

    Merely in terms of the number of Fate Ocean Realm experts, the Cmity Seal Purgatory almost doubled that of the Eternal Sword Prison.

    Then came the devils of the Rising Sun Inferno from the Field Gate. iming the second spot in the Nine Hells, they carried an air of lofty arrogance, even more pronounced than the Inscription Cultivators. A closer look revealed their number of Fate Ocean Realm experts surpassed even that of the Inscription Cultivators, nearing 3,000 truly a force surpassing the Yin Devils of the Endless Netherworld.

    As the first two gates opened, the remaining hells arrived almost simultaneously, bringing together over 10,000 elites of the Fate Ocean Realm to the Immortal Asylum''s grand gathering.

    The Sword Cultivators were quite familiar with the Yin Devils of the Endless Netherworld and thend demons. However, they rarely crossed paths with the three oceanic hells.

    The moment hade for a dramatic entrance from the Open Gate''s sirens, the Gorge Gate''s sea dragons, and the Ground Gate''s resentment demons.

    The entire Eight Trigrams arena seemed to be engulfed by a tempest of demonic aura, almost painting the Immortal Asylum in a monstrous hue.

    "Merfolk and sea dragons?" Yun Xiao mused, having already scoped them out through Moon Fairy.

    However, seeing them with his own eyes was a different story. The sirens, being half-human, proudly disyed their fish tails and human torsosquite a sight, mostly quite fetching. Their tribe, with a majority of female warriors, had less than 1,000 participants in the Fate Ocean Realm, the fewest among the eight hells.

    The sea dragons, on the other hand, had transformed into human forms. Most had bluish-ck skin with subtle scales, broad noses, and fierce,manding eyes, clearly a tribe not to be trifled with.

    Lastly, the resentment demons numbered over 2,000. They appeared eerie and ghastly, shrouded in a chilling mist of the deep sea. Their ominous presence felt even more menacing to Yun Xiao than the devils and the Inscription Cultivators.

    "It seems those three are in the top rankings," Yun Xiao concluded. The Inscription Cultivators, the Yang Devils, and the resentment demons were clearly eager for Yun Xiao''s demise.

    Yun Xiao''s philosophy was simple. Those who wished death upon him would find the favor returned in kind.

    So, it was clear as day to Yun Xiaohim against these three factions of humans, devils, and demonsit was a fight to the death, no room for negotiations.

    Aside from them, he had essentially secured the allegiance of both the Endless Netherworld and Primeval Demon Hell. That left only the sirens and sea dragons, which hardly seemed daunting.

    Among these two oceanic hells, the sirens bore no ill will towards Sword Cultivators and, being rankedst in the Nine Hells,cked any real autonomy.

    "This means the Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, and the resentment demons are the true adversaries," Yun Xiao concluded, discerning their animosity through their icy, murderous, and scornful gazes upon entering the scene.

    The sirens, on the other hand, seemed more anxious than malicious, their hostility towards the Sword Cultivators feeling more coerced than genuine.

    "So, is it really me against the seven?" Yun Xiao thought with a cold chuckle.

    The Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, and others were all watching him. In fact, nearly ny-nine percent of the powerhouses in the Nine Hells were now staring coldly at this young prodigy.

    Yun Xiao stood at the forefront of the Radiance Gate,manding 1,000 Sword Cultivators with a presence like a clear, moonlit breeze, unfazed by the dark, raging tempest, shining like a bright star over a dark, tumultuous sea, and remaining untouched by the world''s demons and ghosts.

    Standing alone against thousands of murderous gazes, Yun Xiao was a figure of defiance on the Eight Trigrams arena.

    The Wick Devil, growing impatient before the appointed time, spoke up, "Let the Immortal Asylum announce this year''s rules."

    His voice, deep and tyrannical, rolled over the crowd like a raging fire, searing everyone''s ears.

    The Sword Cultivators, bearing the brunt of it, frowned deeply.

    "Now that all are present, we may proceed with the announcement," Mo Jianzhi dered, his gaze coldly sweeping across thepeting teams from all eight directions, the atmosphere tensing instantly.

    Humans, devils, and demons held their breath.

    The rules were crucial. Could they kill Yun Xiao, the Exiled Sword Immortal, and cripple the Eternal Sword Prison?

    Shen Xiaochan, the Dream Demon, and Kun Jiang remained silent, all eyes turning to Mo Jianzhi, the Sword Cultivator at the center of it all.

    In a hush of anticipation, Mo Jianzhi raised his voice, announcing with solemnity, There are two standards to measure the might of a hell. First, by the size and power of the Fate Ocean Realm forces; and second, by thebat prowess of the strongest individuals.

    "As per tradition, our Nine Hells will again conduct two rounds of battle, testing these standards. The weight of these two rounds will be six and four, respectively.

    This meant that in the rules of the Immortal Asylum, the Fate Ocean Realm forces were deemed even more crucial than the peak experts above the rank of Overseer. It made sense, given their greater numbers.

    Today, we''ll have the Fate Ocean Realm forces battle each other to decide the victor and seating order, Mo Jianzhi continued.

    Please enlighten us with the rules, Brother Mo, the Talisman Emperor.

    Mo Jianzhi nodded. Upon entering the Immortal Asylum, the participants from each hell received a token corresponding to the Eight Trigrams. Collecting all eight tokensForce, Field, Ground, Shake, Gorge, Radiance, Bound, and Openforms one <em>Trigram</em>. The final ranking of the hell realms will be based on the number of Trigrams collected.

    This announcement stirred whispers and queries among the crowd.

    What does it mean?

    It means we need to seize one token from each hell to form aplete Trigram. Missing any, and it''s all for naught.

    The final ranking will be based on the total number of Trigrams for each hell!

    For instance, us Inscription Cultivators currently hold 2,000 Force tokens but none of the others. So, our Trigram count is zero. Everyone starts at zero.

    This means we have to fight against every hell!

    Exactly!

    Protect our tokens, and others can''t increase their Trigram count. Get one token from each of the other seven hells to assemble one Trigram and contribute to our Cmity Seal Purgatory!

    These powerhouses quickly deciphered the victory rules through discussion.

    Once clear, their expressions turned steely.

    Whats the Immortal Asylum''s game? Forcing internal strife among the eight hells?

    There''s never been such a blunt rule before

    Should we oppose it?

    Let''s see how the Talisman Emperor decides.

    Over 10,000 participants buzzed with conversation.

    This rule favors the Sword Ruins. They were going to be ganged up on, but now, after everyone''s done beating them, there''s another round of chaos.

    Someone quickly realized this advantage.

    As the atmosphere in the Eight Trigrams arena grew more intense, Mo Jianzhi remained unfazed, continuing, In the first round, the Fate Ocean Battle Royale, each hell selects their 900 strongest for a total of 900 battles. Each eight-way battle involves one representative from each hell, carrying their token. Each battle is limited to 15 minutes. When the time is up, regardless of how many tokens one has, everyone must leave the arena.

 Chapter 332: Placing Bottom in the Nine Hells Conquest Clash!

    Chapter 332: cing Bottom in the Nine Hells Conquest sh!

    After Mo Jianzhi finished speaking, he swept his gaze over the representatives of the eight hells.

    "Is that all?" the Talisman Emperor asked.

    "That''s all." Mo Jianzhi nodded in confirmation.

    The crowd exchanged nces, a bit bewildered.

    They understood why the number was 900; that was all the Fate Ocean Realm participants the Reverie Abyss had. It appeared every one of them had to fight.

    For the Cmity Seal Purgatory, who had 2,000 Inscription Cultivators in the Fate Ocean Realm, they could cherry-pick the strongest 900 for the fray.

    Even though they were all in the Fate Ocean Realm, there was still a difference in strength between stages!

    So, the mightier the hell, the better the odds of snatching more tokens in the eight-person rumble.

    One participant might even sweep the other seven, making a whole Trigram by themselves!

    And if not, the best strategy was to snatch away as many tokens as possible and find others to piece together a full Trigram.

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    "How do we decide who fights?" the Talisman Emperor asked.

    "You pick 900 people to go up. Their tokens will show a random number from 1 to 900. Every fight, representatives from each hell with the matching numbers step up," Mo Jianzhi borated.

    "Any particr rules for these fights?" the Phoenix Empress asked.

    "None," Mo Jianzhi replied.

    Everyone got the picture. Basically, once someone stepped onto the battlefield, temporary alliances, token trading, etc was all fair game.

    Enter the battlefield, and all rules went out the window!

    So, looting and killing were also on the table.

    In a tense silence, the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil exchanged a nce.

    The two were thinking the same thing!

    "With 900 eight-person free-for-alls, and a Sword Cultivator in each, we could set up 900 seven-on-ones. By this rule, we could wipe out the Sword Cultivators..."

    Inevitably, one of these battles would involve Yun Xiao. From this angle, the rule seemed to favor the other seven hells. They could easily teach the Eternal Sword Prison a bloody lesson.

    "That''s what they deserve for getting so uppity and full of themselves."

    For a moment, the Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils, among other powerhouses, looked at the Sword Cultivators with a chilling disdain.

    Meanwhile, the Sword Ruins'' Cultivators hung their heads, their faces clouded with immense pressure.

    Under this rule, nearly everyone had to step into the fray!

    Even a heaven-defying Exiled Sword Immortal couldn''t help them much.

    After all, everyone only got one shot.

    "This rule, it''s like it''s tailor-made for those seven hells to gang up on us, right? And they get to do it 900 times?" Mu Dalong''s eyes brimmed with unshed tears.

    She could almost see it. Each Sword Cultivator, brimming with fervor, being pounced on by seven foes!

    How on earth could they fight back?

    "We never had such a rule before!" Mu Daxiong said coldly.

    "Ten years ago, the Fate Ocean Battle Royale was just one big group battle, right? Wrapped up in a day," Mu Dalong murmured. She had also taken part in that very battle.

    "By this year''s rules, each fightsts 15 minutes, and with 900 battles, just getting through the Fate Ocean Battle Royale will take almost ten days..." Du Zhongyuan rubbed his temples in frustration.

    "Who came up with this?"

    They all red at Mo Jianzhi with displeasure.

    Why make it so hard for Sword Cultivators?

    "Under these rules, Exile Yun can only contribute one Trigram at best..."

    Clearly, this was a test of the overall strength of a hell! The impact one person could make was severely limited.

    The 1,000 Sword Cultivators bore looks of despair, as if a dark cloud loomed over them.

    They weren''t afraid of battle, eager to bring glory to the Eternal Sword Prison. But each of them would be going in one against seven! Passion and fervor would only take them so far.

    Each Sword Cultivator was walking into their deaths!

    "The rules are set, please keep quiet." Mo Jianzhi''s cold voice and a sharp reprimand silenced the chatter.

    With such rules, the powerhouses from the other seven hells started to smile. They reached a consensus. Wipe out the Sword Cultivators first, then fight for supremacy fairly.

    Looking around, the participants from the other seven hells revealed sly smiles, like hunters eyeing their prey, faces filled with mockery.

    The immense pressure felt like a hundred thousand mountains pressing down on each Sword Cultivator''s head.

    "In fifteen minutes, the first showdown begins," Mo Jianzhi announced.

    The crowd let out a coldugh.

    "Exile Yun?" Even the Sword Warden furrowed his brows. He was at a loss with the situation, his eyes turning to Yun Xiao for guidance.

    "I''ll handle it." With just these few words from Yun Xiao, the Sword Warden heaved a sigh of relief.

    The young man in white took a step forward amid the mockingughter and asked, "Senior Mo, is it possible to forfeit?"

    "Yes. Just throw your departure tokens into the battlefield," Mo Jianzhi replied emotionlessly.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded and turned to the Sword Warden, "Arrange for everyone in the Sword Ruins to forfeit."

    This was his response to the siege set by the seven hells.

    In the War of Immortals in the Heavenly Realm, Yun Xiao also had others forfeit, but these two battles were fundamentally different.

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    "Exile Yun!" The Sword Warden quickly pulled him aside, frowning, "The Fate Ocean Battle Royale ounts for sixty percent of the overall score. If we throw away all our tokens in this round, even if we do well in the next round, we can''t win the Nine Hells Conquest sh."

    "I know." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Isn''t that the same as admitting defeat? We''d be ced at the bottom of the Nine Hells!" the Sword Warden said gravely.

    "Exactly. Straight to the bottom," Yun Xiao replied nonchntly.

    "Is that wise?" The Sword Warden was taken aback.

    "What''s wrong with it?" Yun Xiao countered.

    "Our purpose in participating in the Nine Hells Conquest sh is to win and dominate the Nine Hells, isn''t it?" the Sword Warden asked.

    "You''re wrong. Our goal is to survive," Yun Xiao looked towards the other hells, filled with murderous intent. "If we didn''t participate in the Nine Hells Conquest sh, they would''ve joined forces to attack the Sword Ruins. The disparity in strength is too great. Even with the Ruination Sword Array, there would be many casualties. I don''t want anyone dying for me."

    "Exile Yun, but we are all willing to die for you! We Sword Cultivators are not cowards clinging to life," the Sword Warden said through clenched teeth.

    "I know. But the thing is, there''s no need for us to senselessly march to our deaths! We must win, and win gloriously. If we have to sacrifice so many to achieve a victory, to me, that''s a crushing defeat," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "By forfeiting and giving up 900 tokens, we''re destined to be at the bottom in the Nine Hells Conquest sh. Can we still win?" the Sword Warden asked, perplexed.

    "Do you think winning the Nine Hells Conquest sh is that important?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Of course, it''s important. It''s the glory of a hell, the legacy of our sword-wielding ancestors, the pursuit of every Sword Cultivator in the Eternal Sword Prison... Not to mention the benefits of foreign rtions, Immortal taxes, mining rights, and more." The Sword Warden looked intently at Yun Xiao. "And for you, reaching the Primordial Ruins is a shortcut back to true immortality, isn''t it?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "My thoughts are the opposite of yours. I think winning the Nine Hells Conquest sh is not important at all."

    The Sword Warden was puzzled, "Why''s that?"

    "The so-called benefits for everyone are just powers granted to the victors by the Nine Hells in a state of bnce. These powers only exist because of this bnce. If someone can break this bnce, then they mean nothing... For instance, if I could kill the Talisman Emperor anytime, would his title as the Nine Hells Conqueror still matter?" Yun Xiao said coldly.

    "In that case, the other hells and Immortal Asylum might join forces to sanction you..." the Sword Warden said.

    "What if I kill them all?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    The Sword Warden shuddered, "Then it''s pointless."

    "Bnce is just a shackle for the weak. The Immortal Asylum has no right to dictate how the ruler of the Nine Hells is determined. To me, this rule is great news because it gives me ten days..." A glint shed in Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    "I understand!" The Sword Warden''s heart trembled, "I''ll arrange it right away."

    "No need to say too much to them. What will happen in ten days, nobody knows. Even if forfeiting is shameful, let them endure it." Yun Xiao turned to his fellow Sword Cultivators. "Staying alive is more important than anything."

    How could he let them blindly march to their deaths under such twisted rules when they trusted him so?

    "Yes, staying alive is what matters most!" the Sword Warden said earnestly. He turned and went to the camp of 1,000 Sword Cultivators to formally announce their collective forfeit.

    He wanted everyone to ept the high likelihood of finishingst in the Nine Hells Conquest sh. Sure enough, as soon as he spoke, the eyes of the Sword Cultivators reddened.

    "No way!"

    "How can we, the swordsmen, retreat without a fight?"

    Many stood up in opposition. These weren''t hot-blooded youths; they had deeper beliefs, making it even harder for them to ept retreat.

    "Everyone, the way of the sword isn''t about mindlessly marching to death. This is an edict from Exile Yun. As his followers, trustes first!" the Sword Warden said.

    The 1,000 Sword Cultivators looked towards the young man in white standing in the shadows, fists clenched Yet, they fell silent.

    "Can we trust him?" Mu Dalong asked softly.

    "Big sister, once we forfeit, ording to the rules, we''re already at the bottom. Does trusting him even make sense?" Mu Daxiong clenched his teeth, puzzled. He couldn''t figure it out.

    "It does! Staying alive gives us a chance to fight fairly! Today, it''s unfair," Mu Dalong said.

    Mu Daxiong looked at the young man in white, momentarily lost for words.

    Still, none of the Sword Cultivators would go against Yun Xiao''smand! As for the inner turmoil, they just had to bear it for now.

    Unexpectedly, the Sword Warden''s announcement immediately drewughter from the other seven hells.

    That gratingughter spread throughout the Immortal Asylum.

    "How many years has it been? The Nine Hells have seen the first hell whose participants all kneel in surrender!"

    "And they''re the proud Sword Cultivators?"

    "If their ancestors knew about this, wouldn''t they roll in their graves?"

    Over 10,000 voices roared withughter.

    They were having a ball.

    Many Sword Cultivators turned red with embarrassment, their indignation and resentment reaching a peak.

    "Don''t mind them. The louder theyugh, the more frustrated they actually are because their n to encircle us has gone down the drain," Mu Dalong, feeling depressed herself, kept exining to everyone.

    "Yes, the taunts are just to provoke us into fighting..."

    Everyone knew this in their hearts. But enduring such humiliation, which might even stain their descendants, who could bear it? Yet, they just had to endure!

    It was clear to see that the Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, and others, hadn''t expected Yun Xiao, known for his arrogance, to take this route.

    They were actually more annoyed! Unable to kill the Sword Cultivators, it was like punching cotton. And to top it off, they had to fight among themselves first...

    Amidst thisughter, the start of the Fate Ocean Battle Royale was approaching.

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    Suddenly, Yun Xiao raised the token in his hand. On it, there was a <em>one</em> inscribed! His icy gaze swept over the other seven hells.

    "I''m number one, representing the first participant for the Sword Ruins. The strongest among you in the Fate Ocean Realm who believe they can kill me, you better hurry to exchange your tokens to fight me!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 333: Number One Assassin in the Nine Hells!

    Chapter 333: Number One Assassin in the Nine Hells!

    Yun Xiao''s statement struck like a bolt from the blue, silencing the previously raucous crowd in the Immortal Asylum.

    All the Fate Ocean Realm Sword Cultivators had just dered their surrender. And now, the very Exiled Sword Immortal they most wanted dead was the first to step into battle?

    "The rules of the Immortal Asylum didn''t say we couldn''t swap tokens, so..."

    The more than 10,000 participants from the other seven hells exchanged nces, their eyes icy with resolve.

    "Just kill him." That was the unspoken consensus.

    The crowd''s gaze, filled with surging murderous intent, focused on the young man in white at the Radiance Gate. Most of the older powerhouses felt his provocation.

    One man, almost challenging the entire elite of the Nine Hells! Who could stand it? The rulers of the other seven hells didn''t hesitate, immediately discussing who would fight first.

    Their main goal in the Nine Hells Conquest sh was to kill Yun Xiao, and they needed a strong contender to do it in one go. The choice was critical! It had to be the strongest Fate Ocean Realmbatants from each hell.

    In the Sword Ruins, they would probably have chosen Mu Daxiong and Du Zhongyuan.

    The strongest Fate Ocean Realm individuals were already renowned in their respective hells. So, many eyes quickly picked Yun Xiao''s opponent.

    For instance, in the Endless Netherworld, all the Yin Devils instinctively looked towards the Lion Duke.

    "You go," the War Princess said indifferently.

    "Kill?" the Lion Duke asked, ncing at Yun Xiao and then querying the Netherworld Emperor in a low voice.

    The Netherworld Emperor looked to the War Princess.

    "Kill your dad!" the War Princess retorted with a roll of her eyes.

    "You mustn''t disrespect your grandfather like that!" Several of her rtives coughed, including the Netherworld Emperor.

    The Lion Duke gazed deeply at the War Princess... his decision whether to kill or not was already made. He quickly swapped his token for one with the number one on it.

    The start of the first battle was upon them, and there was no time to lose. So, the other six hells also swiftlypleted their swaps!

    In the Primeval Demon Hell, Qing Ge was selected for the battle. An old friend of the Lion Duke, she was acknowledged as the strongestnd demon in the Fate Ocean Realm.

    If either she and the Lion Duke didn''t fight, it would have caused controversy!

    Apart from those two, five other renowned figures in the Nine Hells were chosen.

    Young and mighty, each was a rising star in their respective hells, and possibly the future pirs of their domains.

    After the seven strongest Fate Ocean Realmbatants swapped their tokens, they boldly stepped forward, drawing the gaze of thousands!

    Three among them captured most of the attention

    Cmity Seal Purgatory, Fu Ying.

    Rising Sun Inferno, Scorching Marquis.

    Undead Depths, Abyssal Shade.

    Just one look at these three, and you could tell they posed a greater threat than the Lion Duke or Qing Ge!

    "The cruelest ones have indeed stepped up!"

    "This battle, they won''t rest until Exile Yun is dead"

    The Sword Cultivators from the Sword Ruins hadn''t expected Yun Xiao to fight. Seeing these seven hells send out their best, even those confident in Yun Xiao felt a twinge of anxiety.

    Mu Dalong, worried, hurried over, "Exile Yun, let me brief you on the strengths and tactics of these seven"

    "No need." With tese words, Yun Xiao leapt up, transforming into a streak of white light that swiftly descended onto the octagonal stage. He stood firmly on the Radiance section.

    "Come and meet your end." Yun Xiao stood with his hands behind his back, his gaze sweeping over the seven.

    "Utter arrogance!"

    "This kid really has no subtlety"

    Most present, barring Moon Fairy and the War Princess, were at least a decade older than Yun Xiao. Many elders, eyes zing with fury, shook their heads in disdain.

    "Kill him, and all will be at peace!" Moon Fairy shouted, his voice cold.

    His words rippled through the crowd, quickly bing a roaring wave of thousands, like a torrent of swords bearing down on Yun Xiao.

    "This is the will of the people. You, a scourge upon heaven, are doomed!" he sneered.

    This provoked another round of jeering.

    The War Princess, biting her lip, stood speechless amidst the uproar.

    It must be said, Moon Fairy single-handedly stirred up a tempest of vengeance against Yun Xiao. Suddenly, the entire Immortal Asylum echoed with cries for his head, painting him as a scourge against the heavens.

    "Kill him!" This chorus thundered, reverberating through the air.

    The powerful beings of the Nine Hells, with a gleam in their eyes, seemed to already envision Yun Xiao''s gruesome end. They were primed for a bout of euphoria following his demise.

    Amidst this swirling maelstrom of murderous intent, the seven strongest Fate Ocean Realm warriors from the seven hells, along with Yun Xiao, upied their respective positions in the Eight Trigrams arena.

    Mo Jianzhi sealed off the arena and dered, "The first battle begins now!" His words tripled the already intense atmosphere in the Immortal Asylum, with all the killing intent focused on Yun Xiao.

    Inside the arena, the hostility from the seven opponents was even more chilling.

    Yun Xiao nced at them. Among these seven, he only recognized the Lion Duke and Qing Ge.

    On the Force position of the Eight Trigrams stood a woman in a wide robe adorned with inscriptions. With raven ck hair, her eyes swirled with runic patterns. An illusory mark was also etched on her forehead.

    She was Fu Ying, the younger sister of the Talisman Emperor. Her Life Sigil was likely rted to illusions and trickery.

    "Fu Ying is the perfect assassin for Yun Xiao, the top killer in the Nine Hells. Her Shadowless Sigil grants her invisibility, making her strikes lethal!"

    "No doubt, she was born for assassination!"

    Without needing Mu Dalong''s introduction, Yun Xiao heard the crowd praising this woman who now vanished into darkness, disappearing before everyone''s eyes.

    "She''s truly gone!"

    "Who can sense her presence?"

    Thousands were shaken, witnessing the first killer''s skill, leaving many in awe.

    "With her here, how can this disaster not meet his end?"

    At this moment, the expressions of the crowd grew even more sinister.

    "As for the Scorching Marquis and Abyssal Shade, one is a domineering lord of the Rising Sun Inferno, and the other the most venomous demon from the ocean depths. Both are stronger than Fu Ying in directbat!"

    "The Lion Duke, Shi Fen, Qing Ge, and the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon Ao Zui are also quite formidable. Each could give an Overseer a run for their money"

    With such a lineup, they were the crme de creme of the Nine Hells in everyone''s eyes. Veterans of countless battles, not mere young talents.

    After Fu Ying vanished using her Shadowless Sigil, the remaining six, itching for action, were ready to pounce.

    "The one who ys the Exiled Sword Immortal will be sung about for ages, a crowning glory for their n."

    Who wouldn''t want that glory?

    In this ambush, the seven of them were also rivals!

    Once the arena was sealed, someone immediately made a move, even before Fu Ying could. It was Ao Zui, the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon from the Leviathan Ravine!

    This middle-aged man, shrouded in dark blue mist, had ferocious eyes and lunged forth, morphing into a dragon-crocodile hybrid, equipped with huge fangs, thick dragon scales with spikes, and a tail like a massive sword.

    The most terrifying part? His eight sturdy arms, with ws crashing onto the arena tform, igniting sparks.

    A dense blue demonic aura billowed from his body, engulfing half the stage like a tsunami, hurtling towards Yun Xiao.

    <em>BOOM! </em>His eight arms pounded the ground, the entire arena''s sealing formation trembling.

    "He''s aiming to strike first!"

    "Ao Zui has the right to! In terms of physical strength, he''s likely the strongest here!"

    "This is the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon''s supreme racial talent!"

    With his entrance, Ao Zui overshadowed the other six. The more than a thousand sea dragons from the Leviathan Ravine watched, eyes aze, roaring for blood.

    "Tear him apart!"

    Their frenzy wasn''t just for Yun Xiao, but against the entire Eternal Sword Prison.

    In a sh, Ao Zui was upon Yun Xiao, those massive arms with the force of the sea thundering towards Yun Xiao''s head!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The sound of the air being torn apart was deafening, stirring the crowd into a frenzy over the dragon''s formidable disy.

    "A sea lizard leading the charge?" Amidst the overwhelming pressure, Yun Xiao suddenly looked up, his icy gaze locking onto the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon.

    The crowd was out for blood, and he''d give it to them. It just wouldn''t be his!

    Apart from some beef with the Cmity Seal Purgatory, Yun Xiao barely had any dealings with the other hells. Yet, each seemed more ruthless than thest, leaving no room for mercy.

    Take this Eight-Armed Evil Dragon, for instance,ing at him like he wanted to squash Yun Xiao into pulp. How could he stand for that?

    Yun Xiao was seething with anger.

    "Begin the ughter!" With those words, the storm began. He moved! An azure Sword Soul, wrapped in 11,000yers of Sword Aura and enhanced by seven Hell Demon Sword Rings, suddenly appeared in his hand!

    <em>HUM! </em>The Sword Soul instantly transformed into a Flying Sword!

    That Flying Sword, wrapped in seven demon magics, enveloped Yun Xiao in a tempest.

    Sword energy and demonic energy, two vastly different forces, merged perfectly in this moment.

    With a cold smirk, Yun Xiao''s Sword Soulshed out. The seven demonic beings on the Flying Sword seemed toe alive, swirling around the de, whipping up storms of wind, fire, thunder, illusion, and more.

    Silent but deadly, the essence of a Flying Sword technique was speed.

    However, Yun Xiao''s art addedyers uponyers to that speed!

    In a sh of azure light, Heaven Burial Sword Soul morphed into 72 swords, forming a light-shadow sword array!

    This was one of the techniques from the Ancestral Sword Tombthe Eight-Nine Mystic Sword!

    The mysteries of the Eight-Nine Mystic Sword were profound, its intricacies beyond the grasp of most. But Yun Xiao, in his sword learning, did he just stop at mastery? Of course not! His version started off standard, then midway, it transformed!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>While retaining the eight-by-nine sword formation, each sword morphed into a strand of Rootless Grass, channeling the power of death! In an instant, it shifted again into the Taiji Flying Fish, unleashing the power of Taiji spatial disruption!

    Three great Flying Sword techniques, all fused into one!

    And that was just the beginning!

    After unleashing all its power, the Flying Sword momentarily vanished into thin air, then reemerged with the spatial ripples of Ling Chen''s Vast Sky technique!

    In just a blink, it traversed space, suddenly appearing before the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon!

    Most couldn''t keep track of the transformations of the Flying Sword, not even the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon.

    "What''s this?" Ao Zui, taken aback, hurriedly covered his vulnerable points like his mouth and eyes, and while continuing its charge at Yun Xiao. He unleashed the demon magic, Octofold Sea st!

    <em>WHOOOM! </em>His dragon scales burst into blinding light, engulfing Yun Xiao in an instant.

    "Die!" He sneered triumphantly. With his vulnerabilities secured, what fear did he have of Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword? He opted to take the sword head-on with his sturdy scales, nning to smash the youth with a single swipe!

    Just as the sword was about to strike, it suddenly vanished! It slipped back into the void, disappearing from sight!

    "Huh?" Ao Zui paused, his expression quickly turning to horror. A sharp pain exploded in his clenched mouth as if seven colossal beasts had rammed into his throat!

    <em>SLASH! </em>In the next instant, the sword pierced through his throat, tearing downwards in a rampage.

    Flesh and blood flew everywhere!

    The Eight-Armed Evil Dragon opened his mouth in a terrible scream, his tongue and mouth reduced to minced meat.

    Yun Xiao casually stepped aside, and the dragon hurtled past him.

    ck blood burst from Ao Zui''s mouth as he tumbled to the ground, convulsing, his body writhing in agony.

    <em>POOF! </em>His body shimmered with the light of a thousand swords he seemed to have swallowed. Then with a thunderous explosion, his abdomen burst open, his organs spilling out, drenching half the stage in blood.

    "What... happened..." The Eight-Armed Evil Dragon, trembling, looked at the young man in white, his eyes dimming. His mutted head lolled to one side, never to move again.

    The scattered remains of his organs were a shocking sight.

    "Ao Zui is dead."

    Several fighters on the arena tform suddenly halted, their previously rxed expressions turning grave.

    A deathly silence fell over the entire Immortal Asylum.

    Over 10,000 pairs of eyes stared at the dragon''s corpse, speechless for a long time.

    On the side of the Leviathan Ravine, the sea dragons transformed into human forms were visibly distressed.

    Their earlier boasts now felt like ps to their own faces! Whether it was their pride or their throats, they burned with pain, as if Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword had pierced through them.

    For the first time, they witnessed the sharpness of this young man in white with their own eyes.

    Yun Xiao strolled over to the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon as if he were squashing an ant. With a squelch, he casually thrust his sword into the recently deceased demon''s skull. To the horror of the sea dragons, he began to absorb the essence of the dragon''s bones right then and there!

    "You''re courting death!!"

    The demons exploded in rage! The sea dragons of the Leviathan Ravine, known for their fury and sorrow, found this act utterly intolerable. To them, such public desecration was an unforgivable affront.

    Yun Xiao was already audacious enough to take on seven alone, and now this brutality? His arrogance knew no bounds!

    However, what Yun Xiao sought was their utter fear, not mutual respect.

    "Kill him!"

    The pressure of thousands of furious roars now weighed heavily on the remaining fighters.

 Chapter 334: Nothing But Trash!

    Chapter 334: Nothing But Trash!

    "Kill him!"

    The battle was far from over, with the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon being just the start. The killing intent of the other fighters barely wavered. The defeat of Ao Zui seemed to awaken them, shedding their arrogance for a focused, all-out rampage.

    As Yun Xiao was still absorbing the demon bones, a ck sea suddenly emerged above him.

    This sea, wreathed in ck mist, reeked of foulness. It morphed constantly as if immortal, a ghastly female face lurking within.

    This was the Abyssal Shade, a creature born from the resentment of all the poisonous beings in the three great oceanic hells, now just a puddle of water turned demon.

    Its appearance spurred excitement among the crowd.

    "Under the Abyssal Scorching Poison, no flesh can endure..."

    Without a second word, the Abyssal Shade turned into countless ck raindrops, raining down in torrents.

    Each drop ignited with dark mes, raining down upon Yun Xiao.

    "Poison?" Yun Xiao, standing atop the carcass of the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon, continued to draw power from the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, not even ncing upwards.

    As the deluge fell, he drew his sword with the right hand and touched his forehead with the left, summoning the Prison Warden Sigil along his arm to his palm. Then, a violet Runic Umbre unfurled.

    The next moment, the Abyssal Scorching Poison Rain fell upon this violet umbre.

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>Smoke billowed from the umbre''s surface!

    Just when everyone thought it would be melted in an instant, they heard the Abyssal Shade''s agonizing screams!

    The rain turned to smoke... and then, it vanished!

    It was as if the Abyssal Shade''s immortal body had entered a meat grinder, getting shredded and evaporated!

    "What..."

    The audience of 10,000 watched in stunned silence as the battlefield, drenched in ck rain, contrasted starkly with the youth holding an umbre, creating a pure world beneath its canopy.

    In this spectacle, the young man''s white clothes remained spotlessly clean as he continued to absorb the power from the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon''s demon bones.

    The scene was not just suave, but also carried a kind of terrifying beauty.

    White robe, azure sword, and violet umbre!

    Yun Xiao trod on a bloody carcass. Yet, his robe was immacte, as if part of a fantastical game...

    Ironically, the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon was reduced to a mere skeleton by the Abyssal Scorching Poison!

    "The Abyssal Shade must be restrained by the Heavenly Land Sigil!"

    "The Heavenly Land really is formidable..."

    From that moment on, the crowd watched in awe. Their killing intent remained strong, but now was tinged with a hint of reverence.

    The most shocked of all was the Abyssal Shade itself!

    "The core attribute of the Heavenly Land Sigil is purification!"

    Realizing this, it knew it was useless in this battle.

    With this sigil, Yun Xiao would always be its nightmare if he didn''t die.

    In a panic, the Abyssal Shade tried to retract its form, the torrential rain converging back into its body.

    "I can''t fight him; it''s your turn!" it screeched, turning to flee.

    But just as it turned, the young man with the umbre appeared before it, gazing coldly.

    "It likes you," Yun Xiao said, pointing to his umbre.

    "No!" the Abyssal Shade cried in horror, attempting to escape.

    <em>HUM! </em>The Runic Umbre spun violently, its nine dragon spokes hissing like saw des cutting through the Abyssal Shade!

    "GYAHHH!" The Abyssal Shade evaporated, emitting white smoke and agonizing screams that made everyone in the Immortal Asylum shudder.

    "Your journey ends here." Yun Xiao suddenly appeared, grasping the umbre handle. The umbre swiftly copsed into a short spear!

    With a sharp thrust, the spear pierced through the Abyssal Shade''s body!

    "Gughhh..." The Abyssal Shade gave him onest look of terror and despair, then transformed into a puff of white smoke,pletely absorbed by the umbre. It turned into a small cluster of ck inscription runes on the umbre''s surface!

    The Abyssal Shade was dead! It died a death more miserable than imaginable.

    "Scared, are we?" Yun Xiao had just vanquished the Abyssal Shade and, without a moment''s pause, unfurled the Runic Umbre anew.

    To the side, a fresh wave of murderous intent approached. It was the Yang Devil, the Scorching Marquis!

    He was about to strike earlier. However, the indiscriminate rain of annihtion from the Abyssal Shade had forced him to retreat.

    Just after killing the Abyssal Shade, a dark red light shed on Yun Xiao''s left. Turning his head, he saw the Scorching Marquis wielding a colossal magic treasure, hurling it his way!

    It was a dark red, spiked steel il, at least ten feet in diameter, resembling a steel sea urchin, with molten red iron swirling inside. This was the Ignis grade magic treasure, Scorching Sun.

    This Scorching Sun was attached to a chain, wielded in the hands of the Scorching Marquis.

    With a wild expression, the Scorching Marquis swung the il towards Yun Xiao, arriving instantly with the force of a sun crashing down!

    This strike could break the spine of the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon, showcasing the formidable power of the Scorching Marquis!

    This attack drew shouts from the crowd, clearly pinning their hopes on it.

    Facing this onught, Yun Xiao silently raised the Runic Umbre as a shield. On its surface, the 8,000 Runes converged to form small formations!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Scorching Sun struck the umbre, causing a thunderous explosion.

    Under this violent impact, Yun Xiao was sent flying backward, the umbre shattering.

    Such intense shockwaves even caused internal injuries, a trickle of ck blood escaping the corner of his mouth!

    This was a sign of his rtively lesser strength!

    This scene finally ignited excitement among the crowd.

    "He''s injured!"

    "Did the Heavenly Land Sigil shatter?"

    Just as the crowd was about to cheer, they saw Yun Xiao, in his fluttering white robe, gracefullynding on the ground. The shattered pieces of his Runic Umbre transformed into numerous dragons, all coalescing around his body. This was one of the forms of the Prison Warden Sigil, known as Dao Dragon, enhancing Yun Xiao''s daoist spells.

    "Die!" the Scorching Marquis roared, as the Scorching Sun zed with fierce light, smashing down again.

    Meanwhile, the number one assassin of the Nine Hells, Fu Ying, was lurking in the shadows, waiting for Yun Xiao''s moment of weakness to deliver a fatal blow.

    She was about to strike just moments before, but the emergence of the Dao Dragon made her hold back. She and the Scorching Marquis, although rivals, were well-coordinated friends from years of tacit understanding.

    One pressed the attack; the other waited to deliver the killing blow.

    Apart from them, Qing Ge, the Lion Duke, and that siren Shi Fen, seemed to be frozen in fear, hesitating to advance.

    The swift deaths of Ao Zui and the Abyssal Shade meant no one was concerned when the Lion Duke and others would strike.

    Everyone''s eyes were on the deadly duo of Fu Ying and the Scorching Marquis, the dominant figures from the top hells of the Nine Hells.

    "Kill the Exiled Sword Immortal!"

    Another earth-shaking chorus of shouts swept through the Immortal Asylum.

    The Scorching Sun was upon him in an instant!

    Yun Xiao, wrapped in violet dragons, looked up amidst the fierce mes. In that moment, his demeanor and divine visage were beyond mortal, leaving an unforgettable impression on those challenging him.

    With the Dao Dragon empowering him, buzz! He fused two great daoist spells!

    One was the Wuji Dao Art. The other was Divine Ocean Tempest, another rare top-tier daoist spell from the Sword Ruins.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao''s hands spun rapidly, violet inscriptions swirling around him, conjuring an ocean storm out of thin air! The violet tornadoes and colorless vortexes merged, creating a deafening roar, entangling the Scorching Sun!

    With a roar, multiple violet dragons surged along the Scorching Sun''s chain towards the Scorching Marquis, biting ferociously into his body!

    Yun Xiao flicked his wrist, releasing the tempest and sending the Scorching Sun flying away!

    "ying with daoist spells, are we?" the Scorching Marquis sneered, nting his feet firmly on the ground, hands sped together.

    "Devil Fire Devouring the Divine!" His body ignited with sacred blood fire, zing hundreds of meters high, merging man and me into a hundred-foot-tall fiery deity!

    After this blood art, the Scorching Marquis''s aura surged, once again captivating the crowd.

    "Fu Ying, you''re still biding your time?" Yun Xiao mocked, eyeing the shadows around him.

    "Then let''s see if your perfect moment everes." His eyes fiercely set on the Scorching Marquis, Yun Xiao charged forward!

    "Sure, I''ll y with you!" With a coldugh, Yun Xiao sped his hands the moment he dashed forward.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>His body erupted in a violet ze, burning three hundred feet high, forming a fiery deity almost identical to the Scorching Marquis'', aside from the color.

    "WHAT!?"

    Those who were just cheering for the Scorching Marquis stood dumbfounded.

    "How can he possibly wield a blood art from the Rising Sun Inferno?!"

    Before their shock could turn into screams, Yun Xiao, with his three-hundred-foot fiery form, reached the Scorching Marquis and mmed a punch down!

    <em>BANG! </em>The Scorching Marquis screamed as his fiery form was ttened by this brutal punch.

    <em>BANG! BANG! BANG! </em>Yun Xiaonded dozens of consecutive punches, obliterating the flesh-and-fire-specialist Yang Devil into mincemeat amidst his screams!

    His killing spree was fast, fierce, and brutal!

    "Seven hells united against me?"

    Even a buddha''s tolerance had a limit! And what more of him?

    "Fu Ying, even for trash, you''re exceptionally cowardly," Yun Xiao mocked as he crushed the Scorching Marquis, then abruptly turned, pinpointing her hidden location with unerring uracy!

    Enveloped in invisible inscriptions, Fu Ying trembled.

    A violet eye appeared on Yun Xiao''s forehead, clearly seeing through her concealment.

    "I must say, for trash, your instincts are sharp and urate. From beginning to end, you really had no chance to kill me!" Yun Xiao said with a cold smile, closing the eye on his forehead.

    At the same time, he pulled out a peach wood sword.

    "The Cmity Seal Sword...!" Fu Ying''s eyes turned blood red.

    All the Inscription Cultivators seethed with rage in their hearts.

    As for the Yang Devils, resentment demons, and sea dragons, their faces twisted in fury.

    This was the treasured weapon of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, and Yun Xiao unting it was a direct insult to every Inscription Cultivator present!

    Buzz!

    The Prison Warden Sigil entered the Cmity Seal Sword!

    This was the Prison Ward form! The Cmity Seal Sword''s power skyrocketed, its force seemingly surpassing even that of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    "You..." Fu Ying stepped back, her eyes ming with anger. She threw down her token and shouted to Mo Jianzhi, "I concede!"

    Conceding meant survival. But as soon as she spoke, a burst of myriad light pierced through her forehead!

    "Uh..." Fu Ying''s eyes widened in shock, staring at Yun Xiao as she fell backward.

    The Inscription Cultivators erupted in fury!

    "He broke the rules! The Immortal Asylum must execute him!"

    Faced with thousands of hateful and cursing eyes, Yun Xiao casually caught the Cmity Seal Sword, sneering, "The one who killed her was your Cmity Seal Sword, not me."

    "Stop your lies!"

    Tears of blood welled in the eyes of countless Inscription Cultivators.

    Yun Xiao, indifferent to their anger, picked up the Cmity Seal Sword. "Is this supposed to be a treasured weapon of the Purgatory?" He summoned Heaven Burial, transformed it into a Palm Sword, and then shed fiercely!

    <em>CRACK! </em>The Cmity Seal Sword broke into two!

    "No!" The Inscription Cultivators watched their revered treasure shatter, their hearts tearing apart.

    Yun Xiao tossed the sword hilt to the ground, stepped on it twice, and cursed, "Nothing but trash!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 335: Enough With Your Whining!

    Chapter 335: Enough With Your Whining!

    Over 2,000 Inscription Cultivators witnessed the tragic destruction of their millennia-old relic, reduced to mere dirt under Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul. The broken peach wood sword, once a beacon of their faith, now buzzed weakly, releasing the power of the deste wilds.

    Yun Xiao, cool as a cucumber, whipped out a Destion Bead and absorbed all the Terra and Silva grade Deste Essence with the ease of a child scooping fish in a bucket. This scene was akin to ripping out the hearts of the Inscription Cultivators and stomping on them with muddy boots. They watched, hearts breaking into a million pieces, their anger boiling likeva, ready to burst their ribs apart.

    "Defilers of the Cmity Seal Sword shall perish!" they growled, charging towards the battlefield. Sadly, they were stopped dead in their tracks by the Immortal Asylum formation.

    All they could do was furiously pound on the barrier, their twisted faces a picture-perfect representation of impotent rage. They could only roar, curse, and swear at Yun Xiao''s ancestors.

    To this day, their faces still bore deep-seated murderous intentions towards Yun Xiao.

    "Still not convinced, huh?" Yun Xiao''s icy gaze swept over the Inscription Cultivators. "No matter. I have all the time in the world to make you submit."

    Not convinced? Then he''d stomp them until they were!

    "Immortal Asylum!" the Talisman Emperor cried out, his eyes aze with fury. "Fu Ying surrendered publicly, but this man still attacked her treacherously! He''s broken the rules of the Nine Hells Conquest sh. He must be sanctioned!"

    "Right!"

    "Drag him out and execute him!"

    "Anyone who defends him shares his guilt!"

    The crowd of Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, and sea demons screeched in agreement.

    Facing thousands of defiant stares, Yun Xiao retorted coolly, "Stop barking, will you? As far as I know, there were no rules saying I couldn''t do this. You can surrender, and I can keep killing. Seems fair to me."

    His words only fueled their anger further.

    However, Mo Jianzhi, with the calmness of a summerke, stated, "He''s not wrong."

    Upon hearing this, the cacophony of angry shouts gradually subsided.

    However, amidst this tense scene, thousands of eyes turned coldly towards Mo Jianzhi.

    "Brother Mo," the Talisman Emperor asked with a frosty gaze, "does the Immortal Asylum intend to side with Yun Xiao, the Exile?"

    "You''re mistaken, Nine Hells Conqueror. The Immortal Asylum only stands by the rules," Shen Xiaochan interjected, casually munching on ck beans. Addressing the Talisman Emperor as the Nine Hells Conqueror was part of the rules too.

    The Talisman Emperor''s eyes lingered on Shen Xiaochan. They had shared a past filled with romantic escapades, which had ended in bitter parting. Would she hold a grudge against him?

    Reading his thoughts, Shen Xiaochan let out a coldugh. "If the Immortal Asylum wasn''t fair, could you have be the Nine Hells Conqueror a decade ago?"

    The Talisman Emperor fell silent. Logically, he knew that thepetition had no detailed rules set by the Immortal Asylum. The right was indeed on Yun Xiao''s side.

    "We''ve been bested this time, ept it," Qingzan muttered. The idea of pressuring the Immortal Asylum to deal with Yun Xiao was wishful thinking.

    "That''s true..." The Talisman Emperor''s brooding gaze fixed on the young man in white. epting the death of his sister, children, and the breaking of the Cmity Seal Sword was a tall order. His desire for revenge was likely the fiercest in all the Nine Hells. Every organ in his body screamed for vengeance.

    With a light sneer, Yun Xiao casually picked up the Force token from Fu Ying and approached thest three opponents on the battlefieldthe Lion Duke, Qing Ge, and Shi Fen.

    Shi Fen, a mesmerizing siren, swirled her long, blue tail gracefully. Her upper body, d in a sheer garment, revealed glimpses of delicate, fair skin. Her wavy, light blue hair and stunning, azure eyes gave her an exotic allure.

    "There''s a unique beauty here," Yun Xiao mused inwardly, appreciating the siren''s charm, though his expression remained stern. Extending his hand towards the trio, he dered, "Choose between your tokens or your lives."

    No sooner had the words left his mouth than two tokens had already been ced in his hand.

    Qing Ge and the Lion Duke had already skedaddled to a safe distance, fearing Yun Xiao might chop them down with a single stroke of his sword.

    "Cowards!"

    "Shameless Yin Devil andnd demon!"

    Scattered jeers echoed around, but they quickly faded. It was clear to everyone that, if in their shoes, they too would have chosen surrender.

    Then came Shi Fen''s turn. Yun Xiao''s gaze, sharp as a thousand swords, locked onto the siren''s deep blue eyes.

    "There''s still a way out if you pull back from the edge," Yun Xiao murmured softly.

    "Exile Yun, you are truly handsome" Shi Fen, holding the Open token, gently ced it in his hand, batting her eyes flirtatiously. "In the Reverie Abyss, we admire beauty, and you are the epitome of it."

    With those words, she gracefully retreated. And just like that, all eight tokens were in Yun Xiao''s possession.

    He assembled them together, forming a palm-sized Trigram. "This is the first and only one from the Sword Ruins," he announced.

    Storing the Trigram away, Yun Xiao looked over the powerhouses of the seven hells. "You still have a chance to submit to me. I don''t need you to grovel; just bow in your hearts, and I can forgive you at any time. After all, I have no desire to be a mass murderer."

    His eyes then chilled as he turned to the Talisman Emperor. "As for those who still resist, that''s fine too. Come at me, and I''ll fight until your houses fall and your people perish."

    His words were a carrot and a stick, offering a chance to some, and despair to others.

    As his words swept across the crowd, the previously noisy, angry, and morous atmosphere indeed weakened significantly.

    Many exchanged nces, pondering their next move.

    Recalling Yun Xiao''s impressive feats, like ying the Eight-Armed Evil Dragon, Abyssal Shade, Scorching Marquis, and Fu Ying, a chill ran through the hearts of the onlookers.

    "Exile Yun, is also an Inscription Cultivator like us... What would happen if we surrendered?" one of them pondered aloud.

    "It was the Sword Cultivators who first supported Yun Xiao, seizing the initiative. Given the deep enmity between the Talisman Emperor''s family and Yun Xiao, he''s likely to suppress us Inscription Cultivators. Our status in the Nine Hells will plummet..."

    "As long as Yun Xiao is eliminated, this won''t be an issue."

    "So, we have no way out..."

    "Don''t be fooled. If he were really that powerful, why would he warn us? What we''ve seen is probably his limit! There are still many in the Nine Hells capable of killing him!"

    Discussions buzzed outside the battlefield, hearts and minds swirling with tumultuous undercurrents.

    As the allotted 15 minutes ended, Yun Xiao turned to leave.

    "Exile Yun," the Talisman Emperor''s icy voice suddenly called out from behind.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao turned back.

    "With your skills, you could join the next round, the true battlefield of the Nine Hells Conquest sh," the Talisman Emperor said.

    "Nonsense, of course I''ll join," Yun Xiao replied cheerily.

    "Oh?" The Talisman Emperor raised an eyebrow.

    "How else will I butcher you?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "..." The Talisman Emperor''s expression darkened.

    Yun Xiao gave him a cold look. "Everyone can surrender, but not you. You''ve led the charge against me. Without your death, I can''t make an example."

    Hearing this, the Talisman Emperor''s face grew even more somber.

    Yun Xiao nced past him. "And you, Wick Devil, and the sea corpse demon from the Undead Depths, right? You two don''t have the privilege to kneel either. Just wait for death."

    His words brought a deathly silence to the Immortal Asylum. Thousands of onlookers exchanged nces.

    "For the rest, Sea Dragon Emperor, Phoenix Empress, if you know when to pull back from the brink and behave, there might still be a chance for you." After saying this, Yun Xiao suddenly chuckled.

    "This kid is even using divide-and-conquer tactics. Isn''t he just bluffing to look stronger?"

    "If he were really that formidable, he wouldn''t need to resort to such tactics!"

    Yun Xiao''s final words had an unintended effect, luring many <em>smart people</em> to his ploy.

 Chapter 336: Grisly Meatballs

    Chapter 336: Grisly Meatballs

    After Yun Xiao''s daring move, the powerful beings from the seven hells faced a choice. Their hearts churned with silent, stormy undercurrents.

    The wise assess the times and the tides, the fools dabble in dark plots. Life and death, wealth and poverty, sometimes they''re not in the hands of fate.

    Yun Xiao returned to his Sword Cultivatorrades.

    Exile Yun. A fervent cheer erupted, sweeping through the Immortal Asylum.

    In the Sword Ruins, there remained no soul unconvinced of his might!

    Yun Xiao''s first battle had ignited an explosive start to the Nine Hells Conquest sh.

    Congrattions to the Eternal Sword Prison for seizing the first victory. Mo Jianzhi''s voice, dry and monotone, made the announcement.

    Few joined him in congrattions. Most powerhouses of the Nine Hells were still wrestling internally with eptance.

    Also, a note for everyone Mo Jianzhi looked around, Behind each of the eight gates, there''s a guest pce. Those who finish battling can rest there temporarily.

    As his words faded, a rumbling noise came from behind Yun Xiao!

    A wall caved in, revealing a colossal underground pce, its entrance adorned with a que reading <em>Radiance Pce</em>.

    Simr pces emerged around the battlefield, one for each of the Eight Trigrams.

    Perfect, a ce for cultivation. Yun Xiao was quite satisfied with the Immortal Asylum''s hospitality.

    The Fate Ocean Battle Royale, with nine hundred contenders, wouldst nearly ten days. These pces meant most didn''t have to keep vigil by the battlefield, especially the Sword Cultivators! Having decided to forfeit, the battle was even less of their concern.

    Clear the field! Those in the second battle, prepare to enter. Mo Jianzhi announced.

    Mu Daxiong stepped forward with his Radiance token. He had been itching for a fight, but Yun Xiao''s order was final. Strong as he was, he epted the decision to forfeit, setting an example for the other Sword Cultivators!

    Ignoring the mocking gazes from other hells, Mu Daxiong tossed his token into the battlefield.

    "Whoever wants it, pick it up!" he said, retreating to his corner.

    Sure, we might be at the bottom of thepetition, and that''s a bit of a letdown. But didn''t Exile Yun start off spectacrly by thrashing his opponent?

    Comforted by this thought, the mocked Sword Cultivators managed to keep their spirits up. Yun Xiao''s single fight had straightened their spines!

    Before the other fighters for the second battle entered the stage, Yun Xiao noticed someone cleaning the bloodstains off the battlefield.

    Who''s that?

    It was an old man in a gray robe! He was hunched over, looking as old as the hills, with not a tooth in his mouth. He held a broom, seeming to have been there for ages, yetpletely unnoticed.

    However, Yun Xiao had taken a keen interest in him!

    Oh, him? He''s been around the Immortal Asylum for a long time, the Sword Warden said.

    How long? Yun Xiao asked.

    Well, he was sweeping the arena tform when I first came here. Looked about the same? The Sword Warden chuckled. At first, I found him odd, but its been decades, and hes never caused a stir. Just known as Old Immortal by Mo Jianzhi and others, not much respect there.

    Old Immortal? As Yun Xiao mulled over this title, the sweeping old man looked up and smiled at him. He was toothless and somewhat goofy-looking, appearing perpetually cheerful.

    Yun Xiao returned the smile.

    Finish up and get out of here, dont dawdle, Mo Jianzhi barked.

    Right-o! The old man rolled up his trousers and hopped off the battlefield, disappearing into a shadowy corner.

    Yun Xiao soon lost sight of him.

    By the way, Yun Xiao asked the Sword Warden, didnt you say the Immortal Asylum was like a sect? Shouldnt there be quite a few people around? It seems a bit deserted.

    The Sword Warden paused. True, not many have shown themselves... I remember, ten years ago, there were thousands of Immortal Asylum elites watching the battle.

    This Nine Hells Conquest sh, with Yun Xiao at its center, indeed made many overlook this peculiarity.

    Right now, all we see are Mo Jianzhi and his threepanions, the Sword Warden murmured.

    And the Old Immortal, Yun Xiao added.

    Did you notice something odd about this ce? the Sword Warden asked.

    Yun Xiao didn''t answer directly but threw back a different question, Since weve all decided to sit out the fight, can we temporarily leave the Immortal Asylum?

    Every time the Nine Hells Conquest sh ensues, the Immortal Asylum ispletely sealed. No leaving The Sword Warden nced towards the Radiance Pce behind him, Since the pce has opened, it clearly means they want us to rest there for a while.

    Was there no guest pce before?

    In past battles, it was all over in a day or two. No need for a break, the Sword Warden said.

    Alright then. Yun Xiao didn''t linger on the subject. He headed straight for the Radiance Pce, You guys take your time surrendering, I''m off to level up.

    Level up

    This term left the Sword Warden with a mix of amusement and bemusement. Others would say they were off to cultivate. The result of cultivation was leveling up!

    Yun Xiao was skipping straight to the endgame.

    In the Radiance Pce, Yun Xiao strolled around and found this underground pce quite expansive.

    Tens of thousands of rooms, countless courtyards.

    A few thousand people could live here for a month or two, no problem.

    Yet, now it was just him, making it eerily spacious. Standing in a long, chilly corridor, he sniffed the air and wiped the dust off a windowsill.

    At least a decade since anyone''s lived here. He frowned slightly. Looking up and around, this silent, dark pce felt like the gaping maw of an abyss, mysterious and unsettling at every turn.

    In the quiet, he could faintly hear the sounds ofbat from the distant battlefield.

    After the Sword Cultivators withdrew, the seven hells had lost their hunting target. In their quest for dominance, they had turned to internal strife.

    By the sound of it, theyre not holding back. Yun Xiao shook his head. Life, when it came down to it, was always about interests. His emergence as amon enemy momentarily united them, yet it couldn''t change their inherent nature to fight each other.

    The Inscription Cultivators aspired to be the ruler of the Nine Hells for another decade!

    The Yang Devils of the Rising Sun Inferno, in fact, harbored the same desire.

    So did the demons, especially those from the Undead Depths!

    And the Endless Netherworld, Primeval Demon Hell, and Leviathan Ravineif they couldn''t rule, they sure as hell wouldn''t let their arch-enemies do so!

    The Reverie Abyss was the only hell that seemed a bit moreid-back. However, they also feared being gobbled up by the other two oceanic hells.

    So, these 900 battles signified a brutal internal drain for the entire Nine Hells.

    For the Sword Cultivators to sidestep this carnage was a wise move indeed.

    Just as Yun Xiao was about to dive into cultivation, the Radiance Pce trembled violently, a terrifying beastly roar sweeping through, nearly bursting his eardrums.

    The Nian, it''s close to me Yun Xiao swiftly turned, peering into the swirling dark mists behind him.

    Did Mo Jianzhi want us to stay put in the pce after the fight so we wouldn''t stumble upon some unsavory secrets of the Immortal Asylum? Standing up, Yun Xiao vanished into the darkness.

    He left the Radiance Pce, finding a dimly lit, sinister path. The roars echoing within were intimidating, downright savage.

    Blue Star popped out of his embrace, his deep blue eyes scanning the surroundings.

    Any mommy milkers out there? Red Moon, huddled inside, peered out withrge red eyes.

    There is, but it''s probably a corpse. Want a taste?

    Nah! It''s expired, surely gone sour, Red Moon shuddered in refusal, Drinking that is asking for trouble.

    After a pause, he nced up at Blue Star''s jaw, dead serious, It might even cause... problems for your mouth.

    Ugh! Just imagining that scene made Blue Star retch.

    Quiet. Yun Xiao silenced them, treading deeper into the corridor, his steps light.

    Most times, the passage was as silent as the path to the underworld, but asionally, it quaked violently, emitting brutal soundwaves.

    The bricks and walls bore signs of decay!

    Swirls of dull yellow mist formed small rings in the air, floating about like suspended mouths.

    I feel like we''re getting closer to the Nian. Yun Xiao furrowed his brow, continuing forward.

    Be careful, we might not be able to take it on, Blue Star cautioned.

    Isn''t it locked up? Yun Xiao queried.

    Hard to say, any seal loosens over time, Blue Star said, hinting at deeper meanings.

    I get the idea! Red Moon eximed excitedly, screeching, Like that Phoenix Empress, sealed for ages, then loosened up the moment she saw Moon Fairy!

    Shut up! This time, it was Yun Xiao and Blue Star''s turn to silence Red Moon.

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath and pressed on.

    The roaring of the Nian grew closer, hammering his heart like a heavy mallet.

    Huh? Then, amid the beast''s roars, Yun Xiao heard a series of dull, rhythmic hammering sounds.

    <em>THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! </em>Yun Xiao and Blue Star exchanged nces.

    The sound was not far from them!

    As they drew closer, the hammering grew louder, apanied by heavy,bored breathing!

    A corner appeared ahead!

    <em>THUMP! THUMP! </em>The hammering was just around the bend.

    Easy there, the meatballs will be ready in a jiffy. A hoarse, slick voice came from around the corner.

    Yun Xiaos brows furrowed slightly! He inched forward, peeking around. And there he saw it! In the midst of the corridor, an old man in a gray robe, hammer in hand, was pounding away.

    Beneath himy arge chopping board.

    On it, a mass of crimson flesh, unclear whether from a human or a demon!

    <em>THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! </em>The old man, smiling, was vigorously pounding the flesh, humming, Patience, little one, fresh and tasty meatballsing up! Nice and firm, hehehe

    Yun Xiaos pupils narrowed.

    Old Immortal?

    Wasn''t he cleaning up the battlefield?

    With this question in mind, Yun Xiao nced up.

    Suddenly, he saw behind the old man a wall covered in countless inscription runes, easily in the hundreds of thousands!

    And now, a huge crack had formed in this wall! Within the crack swirled dull yellow streams of air, creating a deafening storm! Abruptly, a massive yellow eye appeared in the crack! It was staring right at Yun Xiao!!!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 337: Its Already Broken Out!

    Chapter 337: It''s Already Broken Out!

    "It saw me!" Yun Xiao''s eyes turned icy.

    At that moment, the Old Immortal stopped pounding the bloody meatballs on the cutting board and looked up at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao felt a chill run down his spine. His face was frosty, and his legs didn''t retreat, but in his hands, a sword and sigil appeared, ready for battle at any moment.

    From the crack, a dim yellow giant eye looked out, its surface murky and deep, swirling with profound brutality and resentment, like a whirlpool of the underworld from which you could never climb out in a hundred lifetimes.

    "This suffocating sensation, truly befitting a beast of cmity," Yun Xiao muttered, frowning.

    Such a ferocious and brutal creature was merely a prisoner of the first level of the Immortal Asylum. Who knew what kind of other monsters were imprisoned deeper in the next 17 levels below?

    "Exile Yun, you''re here?" Just then, the Old Immortal with the mallet suddenly grinned.

    He sneakily hid his ck, blood-stained mallet behind him, looking somewhat sheepishly at Yun Xiao, as if he felt a bit embarrassed.

    Yun Xiao nced at him, and his tense expression rxed a little. He nodded to the Old Immortal. "Just bored and wandering around. I hope I''m not disturbing you?"

    "Not at all! This Immortal Asylum is so empty. Having a chat with a youngin'' is an honor for this old man," the Old Immortal said with a simple smile, his mouth slightly open, revealing toothless gums.

    As he spoke, the dull yellow eye in the crack seemed to freeze, motionless, like a painting, less terrifying than before.

    Yun Xiao stopped looking at it and walked over to the Old Immortal, looking down at the cutting board and asked, "Whose flesh and blood is this?"

    As he asked, images of the Old Immortal cleaning up corpses on the battlefield shed through his mind, along with the Sword Warden''s words about the Nine Hells Conquest sh from ten years ago, and the thousands from the Immortal Asylum who had watched...

    "Please, don''t get the wrong idea!" the Old Immortal said, scratching his head. "This meat? It''s purchased from outside the Immortal Asylum. Mostly cattle and sheep from thend, and fish from the sea. None of them were demons or devils, and certainly not humans. If you don''t believe me, you can take a whiff."

    "No need," Yun Xiao replied, looking down again and realizing he might have overthought the situation.

    The Old Immortal gave a resigned smile. "Can''t help it, these imprisoned beasts are so demanding! Not only does it demand meat, but it insists on the finest cuts, and not just any cuts; it has to be meatballs. If it doesn''t get its way, it throws a fit, making a ruckus that disturbs everyone''s peace. My old bones have no choice but to work harder to appease it."

    "The beast you''re talking about, is it that one? The Nian? The cmity?" Yun Xiao asked, looking at the dim yellow eye in the crack.

    "That''s the one. Who knows how many years it''s been around, just won''t die, and it''s always making noise, driving us all crazy." The Old Immortal sighed.

    As soon as he finished speaking, the Nian in the crack roared, shaking the surrounding brick walls and causing a cascade of dust. The ground shook violently!

    Yun Xiao, standing so close, felt as if the beast roared right in his ear, leaving him dizzy and disoriented.

    <em>BOOM! </em>It started to move more violently in its prison below.

    "Here we go, you damned beast!" The Old Immortal, cursing under his breath, scooped up the prepared meatballs from the cutting board and tossed them into the crack.

    Gulping sounds echoed from within. Then, the thunderousmotion finally settled down.

    "See? The beast calms down after a good meal," the Old Immortal said, giving Yun Xiao an embarrassed smile. "Sorry about that, didn''t mean to make a scene."

    Yun Xiao remained silent for a moment, then seriously asked the Old Immortal, "With such arge crack, can''t it escape?"

    "Rest assured, Exile Yun. This crack has been here for over a thousand years. This gluttonous creature is too big and hasn''t transformed into a demon. So, it simply can''t get out," the Old Immortal exined.

    "Does everyone know about this crack?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Pretty much everyone in the Nine Hells should know! It''s quite a popr spot for sightseeing," the Old Immortal remarked wistfully.

    "Oh." Yun Xiao nodded, deciding not to dwell on this topic.

    "Carry on, I''m just passing through," he told the Old Immortal.

    "Sure thing! Feel free to wander." The Old Immortal picked up his mallet and pulled out arge shark from his Bag of Holding. He started pounding the fish, bones and all, sending blood and minced meat flying everywhere, drenching him in the process. His gray robe quickly turned into a bloodied one, with bits of flesh clinging to his face and hair.

    "Old Immortal, weren''t you just cleaning up the battlefield?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    It was quite a distance from there to here! The battlefield was always in need of cleaning, wasn''t it?

    "Ah?" The Old Immortal paused his meat-pounding, his crimson hands touching the back of his head, "That''s my twin brother. We''ve been doing odd jobs here for nearly a hundred years!"

    "He''s also called Old Immortal?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "We''re just handymen, so everyone calls us Old Immortal to save the trouble," he replied.

    "I see." Yun Xiao looked outside, puzzled. "I heard the Immortal Asylum is like a sect with at least ten thousand elite cultivators. Why don''t I see any of them around?"

    "Don''t you know, Exile Yun?" the Old Immortal asked in surprise.

    "Know what?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "It''s said that the Primordial Ruins are about to appear, and almost everyone from the Immortal Asylum has gone to witness this miracle." The Old Immortal''s eyes filled with longing. "Honestly, I''d love to see this world-traversing divine vessel myself, but this old beast won''t allow it..."

    Just as he finished speaking, the Nian started roaring and screaming again, venting its frustration.

    "So noisy!" The Old Immortal, irritated by the noise, hastily resumed hammering the shark.

    Yun Xiao didn''t say anything more. He alternately nced at the dim yellow eye in the crack and the Old Immortal pounding the meatballs. A violet pupil quietly opened on his forehead, taking in everything around him.

    "I understand now..." Yun Xiao''s expression changed slightly, and his heart skipped a beat.

    "All right, that''s enough! Stuff yourself to death, you beast!" The Old Immortal finished another meatball and tossed it into the crack. Once done, he turned to Yun Xiao with a grin. "Careful not to look too closely."

    Yun Xiao inhaled softly and changed his tone slightly, addressing the old man, "Well, I have other matters to attend to. I won''t disturb you further."

    With that, he turned and left, his white robes gradually disappearing into the darkness.

    After he was gone, two meatballs suddenly flew out of the crack, covered in green slime.

    "Ptui!" The Old Immortal spat on the meatballs and cursed. "Truly, revoltingly inedible!"

    On the way back, Blue Star asked in a low voice, "Did you figure it out?"

    "Yes, it''s already out," Yun Xiao replied, his expression slightly pale.

    "What do we do now?" Red Moon asked, feeling a bit dizzy.

    This situation waspletely unforeseen before entering the Immortal Asylum.

    "If it chose to deceive me, it may not necessarily be my enemy. We''ll just have to stay alert and see how things unfold," Yun Xiao reasoned, knowing that he already had too many enemies.

    In the closed environment of the Immortal Asylum, there was no need to meddle in affairs unless absolutely necessary. If not for that extra nce with Soul Origin, he might have beenpletely fooled.

    "So, did the people of the Immortal Asylum really go to see the Primordial Ruins?" Blue Star asked.

    "They might have ended up as meatballs, too."

    At this moment, Yun Xiao arrived back at the Radiance Pce.

    "Exile Yun" At the entrance, the graceful woman in a light golden dress, Mu Dalong, looked anxious and was searching around. Seeing Yun Xiao, she breathed a sigh of relief, her eyes slightly reddened.

    "What''s wrong?" Yun Xiao approached her.

    "I couldn''t find you anywhere... I was afraid," Mu Dalong murmured, looking down.

    "Afraid I was dead?" Yun Xiao smiled wryly. "Don''t worry. There''s too much injustice in this boundless world that needs a hero like me to stand for justice and fairness. How could I possibly afford to die?"

    "You, a hero?"

    "Don''t I look like one?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not really." Mu Dalong looked up at him, her eyes trembling slightly as she murmured. "Maybe deep down you are a hero, but you don''t want others to know. You''re a good person."

    "I''m certainly not a good person... Good people are bound by too many moral shackles. I''m a viin! It''s more liberating to be bad, not caring what others think!" Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "Is that so?" Mu Dalong gazed at him intently. Then, she suddenly shook her head with a slight smile. "Actually, you have the heart of a free-spirited youth, unrestrained andwless. You im to be a viin, but there''s a moralpass in your heart. As long as it''s there, you''ll always be endearing..."

    "Endearing?" Yun Xiao frowned. How could that word possibly describe him?

    "Yes, a charming young boy." Mu Dalong covered her mouth and giggled softly.

    "Not a man? I''ve never been so offended in my life!!" Yun Xiao shot her a yful re, then walked past her slender figure into the deep corridors of the Radiance Pce.

    Mu Dalong wasn''t afraid of him; she smiled sweetly and followed.

    Reaching the end of the corridor, Yun Xiao chose a secret chamber and stepped inside.

    Mu Dalong closed the door for him, then waited outside. She didn''t know how long she could apany this young man. In these limited days, she wanted to do everything possible to fulfill her duty, to guide this bright gem through the darkness to a ce beyond her reach.

    As time went by, more and more Sword Cultivators gathered in the Radiance Pce. During the Fate Ocean Battle Royale, they simply yed their cards and withdrew when it was their turn.

    "Exile Yun is far-sighted. Today, those seven hells all suffered casualties, but only our Sword Ruins remained unscathed."

    "In troubled times, survival is paramount."

    "It''s the other seven hells, though, that really let off some steam!"

    The Sword Cultivators looked towards Yun Xiao''s ce of cultivation with growing admiration.

    Inside the secret chamber.

    "Blech!" Blue Star vomited arge amount of upgraded Heavenly Dao Sariras, piling them into a small hill in front of Yun Xiao.

    "This should be enough for me to break through two stages and reach the Fate Ocean Realm," Yun Xiao said, satisfied.

    Holding the little ck beast by the nape, he asked, "Of the 100 million Immortal Jadesst time, how much did you two pocket?"

    "Pocket? How could you use such a term? We were safeguarding it for you, understand?" Blue Star said indignantly.

    "Cut the chatter, is there more?" Yun Xiao demanded.

    "Don''t worry, you''ll have enough to get through the entire Fate Ocean Realm... But to break through it, you''ll need to topple the other seven hells!" Blue Star patted his chest in assurance.

    "Bluey, when you speak, speak! Why are you hitting me?" Red Moon, on the ck beast''s chest was furious.

    "Huh? So what if I hit you! It''s called being expressive!" Blue Star quipped back.

    "Yeah, the next time you do that. I''ll show you just how <em>expressive</em> I can be!"

    "You dolt. That''s your hand too!"

 Chapter 338: Pale Revenant!

    Chapter 338: Pale Revenant!

    "If I could reach the Establishment stage of the Fate Ocean Realm, I''d pretty much be invincible in the Nine Hells," Yun Xiao mused, a slight grin tugging at his lips as he wracked his brain over another way to get rich.

    He recalled how he took 100 million Immortal Jades from the Sword Ruins, nearly wiping out half their treasury.

    Now, with the hostility of the other seven hells, the Sword Ruins needed those Immortal Jades more than ever. So, naturally, he wouldn''t try taking more from them.

    Fortunately, 100 million Immortal Jades was still enough. Even after the battle with the Ku Family back at the Eternal Sword Prison, his reserves were still ample.

    "Bluey was right. After entering the Second Dao Tribtion, the growth of my Dao Heart is crucial. Cultivating now isn''t as straightforward and simple nowpared to when I was still in the Eight Moral Realms," Yun Xiao mused.

    He could sense that his Worldly Dao Heart was a tender sapling with foundations deeper than the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity or Will of Divine Destion. The drawback was that it was much more difficult to grow too.

    After all, the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity and Will of Divine Destion was simply following an already trodden path.

    Meanwhile, the Worldly Dao Heart was unique to the Creator Immortal''s reascension back to immortality!

    It was no wonder that Moon Fairy and the War Princess were always a step ahead.

    Fortunately, Yun Xiao possessed a heaven-defyingprehension ability!

    "Once my Worldly Dao Heart reaches the Establishment stage, I''ll have a solid foundation to raise my cultivation in the Second Dao Tribtion!

    "Then, when my Dao Heart settles into my Dantian and merges with my Sacred Power, I''ll have seeded in breaking through to the Fate Ocean Realm!

    "Every sliver of sacred power, infused with the essence of my Dao Heart, will be able to harness the forces of heaven and earth to the highest degree! I''ll have a huge power boost!" Yun Xiao reflected.

    The War Princess'' Devil Heart still lingered in her chest, but it had entered the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in her heart.

    Moon Fairy''s Divine Destion Demon Heart, on the other hand, merged with his very flesh and bloodhighlighting the distinctions between their three paths!

    After ingesting a hefty amount of upgraded Heavenly Dao Sariras, Yun Xiao''s sacred power grew exponentially. His Worldly Dao Heart, ripe for transformation, finally broke free from the confines of his heart, drifting like a pristine pearl down his meridians and into the Nine Suns Dantian.

    With a hum, the Worldly Dao Heart settled into his Dantian, surrounded by the nine primordial void suns. Its white mist enveloped these celestial bodies, while their formidable power seeped into it.

    And so, a dazzling system of stars was born within Yun Xiao, stretching from his Nine Suns Dantian to the Nine Heavens Star Meridians.

    A surge of white-gold power welled up, setting the world around in motion with a deep, resonant hum.

    As his sacred power and Worldly Dao Heart exerted their pull, the forces of heaven and earth spiraled towards Yun Xiao like a mighty whirlpool. At that moment, he seemed like the sovereign of all creation, his nascent power already exuding an air ofmanding presence.

    The simplest of hearts and the most all-epassing life force have found a perfect union in my Dantian, Yun Xiao mused, a realization dawning upon him.

    This union was a direct reflection of his destiny as the Creator Immortal, marking a fundamental transformation. His Worldly Dao Heart was now truly foundational.

    "With the primordial void suns orbiting it, my Worldly Dao Heart bears the dual responsibility of stability and change. It serves as the catalyst for my power! A robust Dao Heart leads to higher realms of cultivation! So, any cracks in this foundation would lead to the copse of the entire structure"

    The First Dao Tribtion of the Eight Mortal Realms was a cakewalkpared to this.

    As a person ascended the path of cultivation, control over thoughts, willpower, cosmicws, and so on became vital. Tangible strength, such as magic power or sacred power, was just the building blocks of a grand edifice.

    "Those I dispatched earlier had some decent Seeds of Creation. Fu Ying''s Shadowfold Dantian, for instance, has already been absorbed by my Nine Suns Dantian."

    As for the Seeds of Creations of the Scorching Marquis, Eight-Armed Evil Dragon, and Abyssal Shade, Yun Xiao held onto them for now. He would transfer them to Moon Fairy and the War Princesster.

    "And what of that Nian? Does it also possess a Seed of Creation?" Yun Xiao wondered, sure that an answer would present itself.

    "I''m already in the Early Fate Ocean Realm. I''ve got plenty of timeten days almost. Even if the growth of my Worldly Dao Heart slows down, my reserve of Heavenly Dao Sariras should see me through to the next realm," Yun Xiao calcted, deciding on a stable path forward.

    "Ten days, and I''llmand the stage. It doesn''t matter if I don''t win the Conquest sh. As long as I''m strong enough, I''ll be the overlord of the Nine Hells!"

    With such rity, why bother with trivial pursuits?

    "So, Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, and that woman called Pale Revenant I''ll see you in ten days..."

    Yun Xiao recalled the information Mu Dalong told him about Pale Revenant. It was said she possessed a beauty that rivaled that of the Phoenix Empress, and that was while being a deep-sea, corpse demon!

    The appearance of another powerful corpse demon naturally reminded Yun Xiao of Forbidden Fate. However, Mu Dalong''s description revealed a fundamental difference between this ruler of the Undead Depths and Forbidden Fate.

    A resentment demon drew its power from a singr, potent grudge!

    Take Forbidden Fate, for example, his essence was the grudges of the in demons in the Demon Continent.

    However, Pale Revenant was a bit moreplicated,yering many resentments on top of the basic grudge of her corporeal form.

    "She''s like abination of Forbidden Fate and that girl Xiao Qian" Yun Xiao mused.

    Xiao Qian was the girl who became Ghost Marriage. Her essence was the tragedy that befell her as a human girl.

    The corpse demon, Pale Revenant, was much the same. She grew up in a human fishing vige near the Undead Depths, a remote ce devoid of Sword Cultivators or Inscription Cultivators.

    Generation after generation of these vigers were tormented by the sea demons. One such demon had a penchant for young maidens, demanding regr sacrifices in exchange for peace and safety.

    At twelve years old, Pale Revenant, was just another girl, bound to a rock and sunk into the abyss. Her terror and despair, indescribable. She died, and her transformation into a demon was but a catalyst. The grudges of the countless spirits of those lost to sea converged on her, birthing a terrifying demon that would rule the Undead Depths.

    She loathed the deep sea, yet it was the sea that granted her power. So, she became a corpse demon, but also a girl who detested the human world that threw her awaya facet missing in Forbidden Fate. This aspect made her even more formidable.

    It was rumored she harbored the collective grudges of the entire deep seathe yearning of countless decaying bodies for the mortal world, thement of the icy waters.

    Crucially, she was still rtively young, and her future remained a mystery. Some believed the confines of the Nine Hells limited her growth, but the truth was, as long as she never became the Conqueror, she could never leave the Nine Hells.

    Yun Xiao knew one thing for sureher hatred for humanity far surpassed that of Xiao Qian.

    And just like that, the first day of the Nine Hells Conquest sh concluded. Each battle, limited to a quarter of an hour, meant there would be a total of 96 held each day.

    Of the scheduled 900 battles, 804 still remained.

    Every bout in thispetition was fiercely intense.

    The Fate Ocean Battle Royale was crucial, ounting for sixty percent of the oue. With the title of Nine Hells Conqueror at stake, who would dare to ck off? Intensity, of course, led to casualties.

    In truth, just one day into thepetition under these rules, and the seven hells were already steeped in life-and-death grudges!

    The battlefield had plunged into a grim silence, punctuated only by the sounds ofbat. In those rare moments of quiet, the over 10,000 participants from the seven hells ceased their chatter.

    With seven fighters in each fray, alliances and betrayals were rampant, making each match a thrilling disy of wits and prowess. The more enthralling the fight, the bloodier it got.

    "At this rate, after the Nine Hells Conquest sh, all forces, except for the Sword Ruins, will see their Fate Ocean Realm forces significantly weakened"

    Yet, for the coveted position of Nine Hells Conqueror, the seven hells had no choice but to fight tooth and nail.

    On the side of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, the Talisman Emperor sat solemnly on his throne, his expression dark as thunderclouds.

    "How many Trigrams have we gathered?" he asked Qingzan, who had just approached.

    "A total of 23. We''re temporarily in the lead. But the Undead Depths are close behind with 22," Qingzan reported.

    Gathering 23 Trigrams from 96 battles was an impressive feat. The Reverie Abyss, for instance, hadn''t even managed to gather three. Without allies, the task was daunting! And no one knew who they''d be up against next, unlike Yun Xiao, who boldly stepped forward first. Many a top-tier horse stumbled when facing a superior steed.

    "For these 23 Trigrams, 17 of our people died and 33 were gravely injured," the Talisman Emperor''s face grew even grimmer. He might be leading, but there was little joy in it.

    In fact, the other hells fared worse, not even harboring hopes of leading, yet still suffering losses.

    "Are you unhappy just because of the casualties?" Qingzan asked.

    The Talisman Emperor pondered, then shook his head. "No, it''s not that. I''m worried we''re piling up heavy losses, only for them to flip the table and render the position of Nine Hells Conqueror meaningless."

    "Who''s going to flip the table? The Immortal Asylum, or Yun Xiao? If the Immortal Asylum did, it''d lose thousands of years of credibility. Without that, the other hells wouldn''t respect its role as a judge, and that loss would be greater for them," Qingzan spoke with a cold edge.

    "Of course, I''m talking about that Exiled Sword Immortal, Yun Xiao..." the Talisman Emperor said, gazing towards the Radiance Pce, his brow furrowed in deep thought. "His calmness so far suggests only one thing. He''s confident that in these ten days, he can sway the whole situation."

    "That''s impossible. The Second Dao Tribtion isn''t something you can ovee just by gulping down pills. His past rapid progress doesn''t mean he can keep up that pace. Can he really catch up in ten days? What, then, were our decades of cultivation for?" Qingzan grumbled in frustration.

    "Now''s not the time for doubts. We need to prepare for the worst, especially with this Exiled Sword Immortal. He''s known to defy expectations. If we y into his hands, we''re done for," the Talisman Emperor said gravely.

    "So?" Qingzan raised an eyebrow, adding slyly, "Are you suggesting that since he''s in the Radiance Pce, and since the Immortal Asylum didn''t specify it''s out of bounds or that we can''t just go there and finish him, we should?"

    "Isn''t that obvious? When Fu Ying died, Mo Jianzhi stated that the rules of thepetition were already dered. There wasnt a rule saying we can''t kill the Exiled Sword Immortal in the Radiance Pce, was there?" the Talisman Emperor replied, his voice tinged with a sinister cold.

    "You''re nning to use his own tactics against him, leaving Mu Tianjian with no grounds forint," Qingzan said with a coldugh. "So, just the two of us to make the move?"

    "Of course not... Inform Wick Devil, Pale Revenant, Sea Dragon Emperor, Phoenix Empress, and Netherworld Emperor to convene for a secret meeting." The Talisman Emperor stood up, then added, "Just them are enough."

    "What about the ruler of the Reverie Abyss?" Qingzan asked.

    "She''s useless. These merfolk are drawn to strength and may waver in their loyalties," the Talisman Emperor said dismissively.

    "In that case, don''t call the Phoenix Empress and Netherworld Emperor either. Just the five of us, including me, should be more than enough to kill him," Qingzan said coldly. "Unlikest time in the Heavenly Land, that Exiled Sword Immortal should be deep in cultivation. He''ll have no chance to react."

    "Do you think the Phoenix Empress and Netherworld Emperor are unreliable?" the Talisman Emperor inquired.

    Qingzan shook her head. "Not exactly, especially the Phoenix Empress. Her grudge with the Sword Cultivators runs deep; she won''t easily bow to the Exiled Sword Immortal. But... regardless, once he''s dead, the next targets will be thend demons and Yin Devils. No need to involve potential variables."

    "You''re right." The Talisman Emperor''s eyes gleamed with a murderous intent. "This must be our most crucial strike, no room for error. Anyone who poses even the slightest risk must be excluded"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 339: Care for a Short Walk, Exile Yun?

    Chapter 339: Care for a Short Walk, Exile Yun?

    In a secluded chamber of the Radiance Pce, Yun Xiao sat cross-legged, his eyes closed in deep concentration. He was channeling the Primordial Void Technique, a cultivation method as ancient as the stars themselves.

    Inside his Dantian, an extraordinary scene unfolded. Nine Suns danced around his Worldly Dao Heart, merging the essence of the primordial into his soul. The sacred power coursed through his body, following the path of the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, enveloping him in a mist of white and gold that filled the room.

    Yun Xiao was lost in this rapid ascent in cultivation, his mind free from worldly troubles, focused solely on the grand path that bridged the mundane with the heavens.

    Suddenly, his tranquil meditation was shattered by a surge of mortal danger, a cry of rm that jolted his soul.

    "What''s this?" Yun Xiao''s eyes snapped open, shining with a brilliant gold light.

    And there it wasa Flying Sword, glowing cyan, having pierced the wall of the chamber, heading straight for his brow with a high-pitched shriek that broke the sound barrier.

    "Another assassination attempt? This is getting tiresome," Yun Xiao thought, irritation ring in his heart.

    In that split second, he reacted. His left hand shot out, deploying a violet oil-paper umbre. The umbre sprang open, its thousands of runic inscriptions forming 18 miniature formations, and the nine dragon-headed spokes roared as it spun rapidly, slicing through the air with a deafening howl.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The iing Flying Sword was ferocious, shattering the umbre and sending Yun Xiao crashing into the wall of the chamber.

    The secluded chamber copsed in a deafening roar, stones and dust flying everywhere, the sound echoing through the Radiance Pce.

    "Exile Yun!" Mu Dalong cried out, her face turning pale at the doorway. She dashed into the wreckage, her heart pounding with worry and anger.

    "I''m fine," came a voice from beneath a pile of rubble. Yun Xiao emerged, his ck hair wild, his white clothes spotless and unharmed, his expression cold but undamaged.

    Mu Dalong''s trembling heart calmed a bit at the sight.

    Just a moment ago, she had felt as if her heart would break.

    "The Flying Sword technique... it belongs to Qingzan!"

    Mu Dalong''s eyes shed with uncontroble fury. They were peers, and in their youth, Qingzan was never her match. But somehow, after marrying into the Cmity Seal Purgatory, her skills had skyrocketed, making her the strongest Sword Cultivator of their generation.

    "It''s not just her," Yun Xiao said gravely, sensing a more terrifying threat amidst the dust and debris. He instructed Mu Dalong with utmost seriousness, "Order everyone to keep their distance, and then go find your father immediately!"

    Themotion had rmed many resting Sword Cultivators. Knowing that Yun Xiao was under attack, they would rush to his aid, but he didn''t want them to recklessly lose their lives. This included Mu Dalong, whom he also wished to send away for her safety.

    "But what about you?" Mu Dalong asked, her eyes red with worry.

    Yun Xiao just chuckled coldly and said, "Go."

    Mu Dalong, who greatly admired him, chose to trust him despite her deep concerns. She swiftly flew away on her Sovereign Sword, directing other Sword Cultivators to safety while heading towards the battlefield.

    "Exile Yun is being ambushed!" The dreadful news spread rapidly, igniting fury among the Sword Cultivators.

    "Who would be so despicable as to assassinate someone during the Nine Hells Conquest sh?"

    "Such an act challenges the authority of the Immortal Asylum. The offender will surely face severe punishment!"

    But before the Sword Cultivators could react with righteous indignation, the attackers had already surrounded Yun Xiao, cutting off all his escape routes.

    Suddenly, the dark surroundings of the copsed chamber began to transform as if a massive scroll was unrolling, sealing off the sky and surrounding area, trapping Yun Xiao in a closed world depicted on the scroll.

    The scroll depicted vividndscapes of mountains, rivers, farnds, viges, and citiesso lifelike it seemed like a real world.

    "The Sovereign Sigil?" Yun Xiao recognized it instantly, despite never having seen it before. Its reputation was legendary, known as the most powerful Life Sigil in the Nine Hells.

    Its owner was none other than the current reigning Nine Hells Conqueror, the Talisman Emperor.

    "Is this the only Aurum grade Life Sigil in the Nine Hells?" Yun Xiao pondered.

    The Sovereign Sigil, ranked at the twelfth level in the grading system, represented the pinnacle of power in the Nine Hells.

    Even the Sword Warden, with his formidable Sword Soul, had yet to reach Aurum grade. And yet, the Talisman Emperor, a generation younger than the Sword Warden, had already swept through the Nine Hells a decade ago, marking him as the upper limit of genius in their world. His talents had fully transformed into strength, allowing him to dominate andmand respect.

    Yun Xiao, now trapped under the Sovereign Sigil''s brilliance, couldn''t help but admire the striking talent of this human powerhouse. The Talisman Emperor had crafted a sigil so mighty it seemed to conjure a world of its own, pressing down upon him like a thousand mountains.

    "The number of Runes... about 15,000," Yun Xiao estimated, his eyes scanning the Sovereign Sigil, deciphering the intricate patterns woven into thendscape. That was 4,000 more than his own Sword Aura!

    Such prowess solidified the Talisman Emperor''s extraordinary status in the Nine Hells.

    Yun Xiao mused, "To think he wouldn''t even spare me ten days,ing to assassinate me himself." It was clear the Talisman Emperor wasn''t about to give him any chance or time.

    And there, within the Sovereign Sigil, the Talisman Emperor had to be lurking.

    The weight of the Sovereign Sigil, invisible yet immense, bore down on Yun Xiao, causing his bones, flesh, and organs to tremble and crack under the pressure. This was the destructive power of the Nine Hells Conqueror, far surpassing the Fate Ocean Realm and even the might of most Overseers.

    "An honor, really, that the Talisman Emperor would deal with me personally," Yun Xiao said, standing amidst this maelstrom of pressure. As he spoke, a searing heat hit him from behind. Turning around, he saw a towering devil, about ten feet tall and engulfed in blood-red mes, standing just thirty feet away.

    The devil''s eyes, burning with dark red fire, stared coldly at Yun Xiao. Its body was like a furnace, raising the temperature within the Sovereign Sigil to scorching heights.

    This was the sovereign of the Rising Sun Inferno, the Wick Devil!

    The Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, Pale Revenant, and Phoenix Empress were the four supreme rulers of the Nine Hells. Now, two of them had already made their appearance.

    With a thunderous roar, the Wick Devil unleashed a blood-red dragon seal, resembling an imperial jade seal. This artifact, like a small mountain, was coiled with three blood dragons, emitting zing red mes and roaring menacingly.

    The treasure before Yun Xiao was clearly on par with the Cmity Seal Sword and the Heavenly Mirror, and it wasplete.

    "The Dragon Wick Seal..." Yun Xiao recalled its name.

    "It is a fitting end for you, Exile Yun," the Wick Devil sneered. From the moment the Sovereign Sigil appeared to the Wick Devil''s ominous deration, it was all but an instant.

    With a low growl, the Wick Devil lunged at Yun Xiao, his attack coordinated with the silent and decisive Talisman Emperor. Their resolve to kill was unwavering and absolute.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Sovereign Sigil contracted violently, its mountains and rivers exerting a crushing force tenfold. Under such terrifying pressure, even the flesh and bones of a Sword Ruins Overseer might be pulverized into dust.

    Within the Sovereign Sigil, the Talisman Emperor''s figure flickered, his cold gaze fixed on Yun Xiao. He channeled his boundless sacred power to fuel the sigil, unleashing a cataclysmic force.

    The ground beneath Yun Xiao disintegrated into dust, and a mighty torrent of destructive power swept towards him.

    "Exile Yun, your time hase," the Talisman Emperor''s chilling, indifferent voice boomed, reaching Yun Xiao first and causing his ears to bleed and his face to pale.

    On the other side, the Wick Devil wielded the Dragon Wick Seal. This magic treasure, heavier than the Sovereign Sigil, crashed towards Yun Xiao with its blood-red mes zing like a furnace set to engulf the world.

    "Such a murderous intent... not even Mu Tianjian could withstand it," Yun Xiao thought. He had reached the Fate Ocean Realm, but these two adversaries were still two whole realms above him, each capable of crushing him with ease.

    Their choice of attack was ruthlessly efficient: an inescapable, all-epassing assault, leaving Yun Xiao with no room to even raise his hand. His body felt like it was sinking into an endless abyss, his chest caving in under the pressure.

    This relentless assault ignited all the fury within Yun Xiao.

    "Quite ruthless, the two of you," he said coldly, his face pale but devoid of fear, even in the face of certain death.

    In the midst of this deadly confrontation, Yun Xiao''s only thought was of the kill. This battle had severed any possibility of reconciliation between him and the two great rulers of the Nine Hells.

    "You think you can be reborn? To hell with you!" the Wick Devil sneered, his contempt for the notion of rebirth clear in hisughter. The Dragon Wick Seal, under hismand, unleashed a torrent of scorching heat, merging with the Sovereign Sigil''s power. Its roaring might was enough to reduce Yun Xiao to nothing but ash.

    Clearly, both the Wick Devil and Talisman Emperor were convinced of Yun Xiao''s imminent demise.

    "What''s the hurry? I was looking forward to ying this out slowly..." Yun Xiao said with a cold, sly smile.

    Suddenly, a small ck beast appeared from his embrace, transforming into an ancient bronze coffin. In a blink, it enveloped Yun Xiao, swiftly enclosing him within.

    "Not that coffin again!" Despite this unexpected turn, the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil weren''t discouraged.

    To them, this was just a special artifact, and like all artifacts, its power was limited by the user''s strength. It was clear to them that Yun Xiao was far below them in cultivation.

    "Smash it open!" the Talisman Emperormanded.

    The Wick Devil roared in response, mming the Dragon Wick Seal onto the lid of the ancient bronze coffin.

    <em>BOOM!</em> The coffin was sent flying, rolling across the ground.

    "Ouch!" Blue Star eximed from inside.

    "Getting hit like that is going to cost a pretty penny..." Yun Xiao mused somberly.

    "Are you even human? I''m getting beaten up here, and all you think about is money?" Blue Star snapped.

    "That''s just human nature," Yun Xiao replied cheerfully.

    Unscathed inside the coffin, his cold eyes fixed on the advancing Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil. "I''m far from their match. Let''s go," he said.

    This sudden attack had disrupted Yun Xiao''s ns, forcing him into a defensive position he hadn''t anticipated.

 Chapter 340: You Really Have No Class!

    Chapter 340: You Really Have No ss!

    "Dammit! We''re burning through Immortal Jades!" Blue Star was equally irked!

    Grumbling, he suddenly veered the direction of the bronze coffin, transforming into a streak of ck light that crashed against the sealed world of the Talisman Emperor.

    "Trying to escape?" The Talisman Emperor sneered coldly, solidifying the Sovereign Sigil into an imprable wall.

    "Last time, we let you escape in your coffin because we were concerned about Ling Chen''s Heavenly Land. You think you can flee again?" the Wick Devil chuckled menacingly.

    Just as they thought this, the bronze coffin violently shook within the Sovereign Sigil!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Sovereign Sigil trembled violently, melting away, while the Talisman Emperor staggered, spewing a mouthful of blood!

    "What?" His eyes were chillingly cold. What kind of treasure could be so powerful?

    It was tough for him, but even tougher for Yun Xiao.

    That single collision had consumed tens of millions of Immortal Jades!

    Fortunately, in that instant, the bronze coffin broke free from the Sovereign Sigil, returning to the Radiance Pce. The oppressive weight suddenly lifted, revealing an open sea and sky ahead.

    "Are we safe now?" Yun Xiao pondered, hoping that some Immortal Jades remained.

    Just as he thought this, a roar came from behind.

    "Pale Revenant, stop him!" As the words fell, a figure suddenly appeared in front of the bronze coffin!

    Yun Xiao recognized her instantly. She was a girl who looked to be around thirteen or fourteen, simr in appearance to Mu Xiaolong.

    Though young, she exuded an extraordinary beauty, especially her skin, pale as the pearls of the deep sea, shimmering with a faint glow.

    Dressed in a flowing white gown, she floated in the air, herrge eyes and long eyshes framing a pair of bright eyes filled with the wonders of the world.

    At first nce, Yun Xiao was taken aback, never expecting the deep-sea demoness, feared by the Nine Hells'' human race, to possess such a delicate and youthful visage.

    "Exile Yun!" With a gentle motion of her jade-like hand, she pressed it against the oing bronze coffin.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ancient bronze coffin, with Yun Xiao inside, barreled forward, smashing through dozens of walls. It collided with countless rocks, shattering them. Yet the young girl, Pale Revenant, standing in its path, remained unscathed despite her seemingly fragile frame.

    But in the end, she hastily withdrew her hand and stepped aside, allowing Yun Xiao to pass smoothly.

    The coffin and she crossed paths in a fleeting moment.

    "What did you see?" As Yun Xiao made his escape, he turned back to gaze at her amid the ruins.

    "The Divine Pir, Heavenly Land, a colossal coffin, endless Immortals..." Pale Revenant''s eyes widened in terror, her pretty face pale with fear.

    "Shh." Yun Xiao ced his finger on his lips, then vanished in the blink of an eye from her sight.

    "Pale Revenant!" The Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil arrived in pursuit, only to watch helplessly as the ancient bronze coffin disappeared into the darkness. Their faces were grim with frustration.

    "You let him escape?" the Talisman Emperor asked coldly.

    Pale Revenant, regaining herposure, shook her head and said, "That coffin, it burned me."

    She raised her hand to show her palm, now charred and rotting, a stark contrast to her otherwise delicate skin. Yet even as they spoke, her flesh was regenerating, new skin growing visibly.

    The Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil were not surprised by this sight. They did not dwell on Pale Revenant''s actions. After all, they, too, had been marked for death by Yun Xiao.

    "This assassination attempt failed. We''re in trouble. He won''t give us a second chance!" the Wick Devil said, his fangs bared and breath fiery.

    "Not necessarily," the Talisman Emperor replied darkly.

    "With such a mysterious coffin to protect him, can he be killed?" the Wick Devil asked.

    "Not under normal circumstances... We can only hope he has a weakness," the Talisman Emperor said.

    "What weakness?"

    "Mercy," the Talisman Emperor uttered solemnly.

    "He doesn''t seem the merciful type," the Wick Devil disagreed.

    "Towards his enemies, no... But towards his own people, perhaps," the Talisman Emperor observed, "Did you notice? When we arrived, he dispersed his Sword Cultivators and let Mu Dalong escape first."

    "So, you deliberately let Mu Dalong go and sent Qingzan after her?" The Wick Devil''s eyes flickered with a hint of me. "I must admit, you''re always thinking ahead."

    "We''ll soon find out if his weakness leads to his downfall," the Talisman Emperor stated.

    "Exactly! Since we''ve already burned our bridges, there''s no point in the Nine Hells Conquest sh if he doesn''t die," the Wick Devil said gravely.

    "I have a feeling that bronze coffin wont protect him many more times. As long as he''s alive, we can keep attacking him for these ten days. He can''t escape the Immortal Asylum anyway," the Talisman Emperor mused.

    This recent showdown had given them a clear understanding of Yun Xiao''s truebat strength.

    "In that case, the stance of the Immortal Asylum on this matter is... critical," the Wick Devil noted.

    "There must be some issue with the Immortal Asylum," the Talisman Emperor suddenly said.

    Both the Wick Devil and Pale Revenant turned to him.

    "What kind of issue?" the Wick Devil asked.

    The Talisman Emperor shook his head. "I don''t know, but I suspect they''re too preupied to interfere with our assassination of the Exiled Sword Immortal. We''ve started this, we must finish it swiftly."

    As they spoke, they began to search for Qingzan''s location.

    Elsewhere in the Radiance Pce, Yun Xiao emerged from the ancient bronze coffin, which transformed into a small ck beast.

    "I''m exhausted!" Red Moon howled.

    "Do we have enough Immortal Jades?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not enough to get you through the Fate Ocean Realm, hehe," Blue Star replied.

    "Very funny."

    Trapped in a bit of a predicament, Yun Xiao was slightly annoyed. But not overly so. The unexpected bond he''d formed with the deep-sea corpse demon, Pale Revenant, was a silver lining in this assassination attempt.

    "Out of money, we can''t proceed with the original n for the Fate Ocean Realm. Time to think of something else," Yun Xiao paused, "If worstes to worst, I''ll send my Moon Fairy and the War Princess to beg for money."

    He still had the Netherworld Emperor and the Phoenix Empress to exploit.

    Just as he said this, Yun Xiao''s expression suddenly turned icy.

    "Qingzan...!" His anger red up on the spot.

    "What''s wrong with her?" Blue Star inquired.

    Yun Xiao didn''t respond immediately but instead soared off on his Sovereign Sword in a particr direction, showcasing his remarkable speed.

    "When I was attacked, I sent my body double and blood ve this way, and they happened to run into Qingzan chasing after Mu Dalong!"

    Yun Xiao had escaped so swiftly that only now, in a deserted alleyway, did Qingzan manage to intercept Mu Dalong.

    "That woman, truly a nuisance."

    In a corridor at the exit of the Radiance Pce, golden and cyan Sword Auras shed with a whistling frenzy!

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>The constant explosions of swords echoed, destroying nearby corridors, rockeries, and eaves under their rampant fury, leveling the entire alley.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A figure in a light golden dress crashed to the ground! She bore several deep sword wounds, her blood-soaked dress, her disheveled hair, and even her light golden Sword Soul had visible cracks!

    <em>CRASH! </em>A woman in a green dress, her face cold,nded before her. Pointing her cyan Sword Soul at the golden dressed woman, she sneered, "Mu Dalong, once the glorious princess of Sword Ruins for thirty years, and this is all you amount to?"

    "Who knows what bargain you struck, what sacrifices you made, to gain your current power?" Mu Dalong rose, unflinching as she faced the green dressed woman.

    "It''s your turn to be jealous of me," Qingzan said with a cold smile. "You once looked down on everyone, always overshadowing me. Now you''re a lonely widow, and I married the Nine Hells Conqueror. You''re in such a sorry state, lost your bnce, haven''t you?"

    "You''re being ridiculous. I have a fulfilling family. Why would I be jealous of someone like you, a ghost without a family?" Mu Dalongughed.

    <em>SNAP! </em>Qingzan''s fingers trembled on her sword at those words.

    "Qingzan, you, representing Sword Cultivators and bowing to Inscription Cultivators,ck the true spirit of the sword. You''ll never truly rule over the Sword Ruins," Mu Dalong said, shaking her head without a smile.

    "Is this your loser''s constion?" Qingzan''s face was a mask of indifference. She stepped closer, her eyes on Mu Dalong''s bloody wounds. She sighed, "Such a beautiful body, wasted, untouched for over a decade?"

    "You really have no ss," Mu Dalong retorted.

    "Can ss be used to charm a man?" Qingzan sneered coldly. "Or did you, with your seductive wiles, ensnare Yun Xiao while he was young?"

    Mu Dalong paused, no longer wishing to engage in this fruitless banter. Ignoring her injuries, she gripped her sword tightly, her eyes resolute, fearless in the face of death.

    "Did I hit a nerve? I don''t believe he''s any true Immortal. He''s just a child at heart. You traded your shamelessness to trap a young genius for the Sword Ruins..." Qingzan looked at Mu Dalong with disdain. "What would your deceased husband think, seeing you stoop so low?"

    "You!" Mu Dalong''s face turned icy.

    "A fortunate thing, indeed," Qingzan smiled darkly. "He must be quite infatuated with you, after all, he''s just a boy. Even if he''s still alive, do you think he''d die for you if I threatened your life?"

    To this, Mu Dalong actuallyughed. "Please, stop fantasizing. He''s an Exiled Sword Immortal, not some love-starved child as you imagine. I''m not worthy of his sacrifice, even if I died a thousand times," she said mirthfully. Her nonchnt attitude only infuriated Qingzan further.

    "Blind worship, you''re the one who''s obsessed," Qingzan spat venomously.

    "Stubborn and deluded, that describes your entire family!" Mu Dalong retorted.

    "Shut up, you wretch!" Enraged, Qingzan unleashed a furious storm of sword energy, shing towards Mu Dalong''s head.

    At this critical moment of life and death!

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! </em>Two figures suddenly intervened in front of Mu Dalong!

    One, a silver figure, astonishingly blocked Qingzan''s sword with their arm!

    Qingzan was stunned. She looked closely; one was a youth with fox ears, the other a tall, stunning beauty.

    "Moon Fairy, War Princess?" Qingzan couldn''t fathom why these two would appear together, let alone save Mu Dalong.

    Not just her, even Mu Dalong, who had resigned herself to death, was baffled.

    "What are you two prodigies doing here?" Qingzan asked coldly.

    Moon Fairy and War Princess remained silent.

    "Get out of my way!" Qingzan''s voice was ice cold. "I need this woman''s life to kill the Exiled Sword Immortal!"

    "No need for such trouble," the War Princess rolled her eyes, pointing behind Qingzan. "He''s here."

    Qingzan was startled! She whirled around. From the darkness, a streak of azure sword light surged forward.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 341: Dao Heart, Fate Ocean, Heaven Sanctuary, and Genesis Spirit!

    Chapter 341: Dao Heart, Fate Ocean, Heaven Sanctuary, and Genesis Spirit!

    "Yun Xiao?" Qingzan recognized him instantly.

    This meant that he had survived the onught of three of the supreme rulers of the Nine Hells, against all odds!

    "Not only did he survive, but he''s unscathed" Qingzan muttered in disbelief.

    This was inconceivable!

    "He didn''t flee. Instead, he''s here to save Mu Dalong, which means he actually cares about that bitch!" Qingzan''s eyes turned frostier as this thought struck her. If she had known it would havee to this, she wouldn''t have wasted so much time talking.

    In a sh, she whirled around, brandishing her cyan Sword Soul, lunging at Mu Dalong again, while coldly warning Moon Fairy and the War Princess, "You two kids, don''t drag the entirend demons and Yin Devils into the abyss!"

    "You really have no manners." The War Princess looked at Qingzan with disdain, flicked her wrist, and an angry blood-red dragon burst from her hand. It coiled around Qingzan''s sword and unleashed a powerful st.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The explosion of the blood-red dragon sent a shockwave of sacred power, forcing Qingzan to retreat. She couldn''t even stabilize herself after the sh, let alone continue her attack on Mu Dalong.

    "The Heaven Sanctuary Realm?" Qingzan''s eyes trembled in disbelief, staring at the War Princess. She vaguely remembered that when the War Princess returned from the Demon Continent, she was only in the Fate Ocean Realm!

    "So what if I am?" the War Princess said proudly.

    "You''re even stronger than this fox!" Qingzan''s mind was in turmoil as she observed the demon and devil.

    Even the Talisman Emperor at their age couldn''tpare to them!

    "That''s not true," the War Princess nced at Moon Fairy. She knew that Yun Xiao''s body double had also stepped into the Heaven Sanctuary Realm. It''s just that the sacred power of demons was more restrained, and Qingzan hadn''t noticed it.

    Thanks to the ancestral blood from the Blood Devil Shrine and the Deste Essence from the Primeval Demon Hell, Yun Xiao''s external fighting abilities had skyrocketed.

    "Why would you two young prodigies help this scum from the Sword Ruins?" Qingzan tried to stir up trouble, pressing on, "Sword Cultivators annihte demons and are mortal enemies with the devils! If you eliminate him, you''ll have your chance to rise!"

    She thought she could handle Yun Xiao herself but feared the interference of this demon and devil.

    As her words echoed, the young man in white descended from the sky,nding right behind her.

    Even though Qingzan thought Moon Fairy and the War Princess seemed stronger, the eerie, deathly pressure emanating from behind made her whirl around, eyeing Yun Xiao with a heightened wariness.

    Her sword pointed at Yun Xiao, its de bristling with chaotic Sword Aura. She remembered their first encounter; she had publicly attempted to take Yun Xiao''s life.

    "Yun Xiao showing up here means that the Wick Devil and Pale Revenant will soon hear themotion ande for him again..." With that thought, Qingzan transformed into a streak of cyan light, hurtling towards Yun Xiao!

    But then, unexpectedly, two beams of light shot past her, striking Yun Xiao. On his left was a fox shadow! It merged into his body like ripples on water, leaving no trace behind. On his right, a burst of blood! It hit right at his heart and instantly melded into him.

    "What was that?" Qingzan halted abruptly, turning around to see.

    Moon Fairy had vanished! And the War Princess, now ghostly pale, shriveled up as if drained of all her blood, copsing limply.

    Mu Dalong instinctively caught her. Checking her pulse, Mu Dalong found the War Princess lifeless.

    Such a bizarre scene even sent shivers down Qingzan''s spine!

    "War Princess..." Mu Dalong, holding her savior, was equally stunned.

    "She''s fine. Take care of her body. Leave this ce to me," a deep, eerie voice echoed out.

    QIngzan and Mu Dalong looked over at Yun Xiao in shock. He was shrouded in a bloody silver aura, his eyes a dark red. Crimson veins surfaced on his skin, and his bones cracked loudly as he moved.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a light step, the ground beneath him cracked, the fissures reaching all the way to Qingzan''s feet.

    The ethereal, otherworldly youth had, in that moment, be something demonic, both righteous and evil. His once divine face now bore a sinister and bloody aspect, far more terrifying than before!

    With thebination of the Divine Destion Physique and the Mortal Dust Blood Base, this was theplete form of the new Creator Immortal!

    The Creator Immortal, aposite being, was never just the image of an ethereal celestial.

    Yun Xiao, his main body as the core, had fused with the flesh and blood of his avatars, making his physique more ferocious and brutal than any demon. His heart, arteries, and veins, having devoured the War Princess''s lifeforce, resembled domineering blood dragons!

    Yun Xiao was now in his strongest form! As he raised his sword, a triad of sacred powerstinum, silver-gray, and blood-redinfused the azure sword. Even Heaven Burial hummed in response, imbued with a triple augmented aura of solemnity and death.

    "You, you''ve devoured Moon Fairy and the War Princess?" Qingzan''s eyes widened in disbelief, witnessing the most inconceivable event in the world, her mind reeling with sharp pain.

    Her mind screamed impossibilities, but seeing was believing. How could she deceive herself?

    Mu Dalong was stunned too, gazing dumbfoundedly at Yun Xiao, instinctively retreating while clutching the War Princess, her eyes filled with profound admiration.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The aura of the young man in white was terrifyingly intense. When he pointed his sword at Qingzan, she instinctively stepped back.

    "Just three juniors!" Qingzan put up a brave front! She was, after all, the second strongest Sword Cultivator of the Nine Hells, not easily unnerved, quickly regathering her murderous intent.

    "If I can kill him, I will; if not, I''ll dy as long as possible for the others toe and finish the job! Surviving to reveal this kid''s secrets to the world will be of great use!" Qingzan swiftly steeled her resolve.

    She had a feeling that Moon Fairy and the War Princess, even if not part of Yun Xiao, were deeply connected to him.

    "So, thend demons and Yin Devils could turn against us at any moment!" She had to unveil this secret!

    "Perfect Heaven Sanctuary Realm, huh?"

    As a storm of thoughts whirled in Qingzan''s mind, Yun Xiao nced at her with his crimson eyes. He knew the Second Dao Tribtion could be summarized in a single phrase.

    <em>After the Dao Heart enters the Fate Ocean, the Heaven Sanctuary births the Genesis Spirit</em>!

    The Heaven Sanctuary Realm was the next realm after the Fate Ocean Realm. Its core principle was called Core Illumination.

    After breaking through the Fate Ocean Realm, the Dao Heart would shine with a brilliant radiance, inscribing its essence onto the walls of the Dantain. This further enhanced the fusion of the Dao Heart with sacred power. Not only that, but it also increased the durability of the Dantian!

    In simple terms, the external manifestation of the Heaven Sanctuary Realm was stronger sacred powerpared to that of the Fate Ocean Realm.

    Currently, almost all the Overseers, Hell Demons, and Devil Generals of the various hells were in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm.

    For example, Mu Dalong was in the Late Heaven Sanctuary Realm, just a stage below Qingzan.

    Given Qingzan''s age, reaching the Perfect Heaven Sanctuary Realm meant she had a promising chance of breaking through to the Genesis Spirit Realm, earning the qualification to be a Hell Warden.

    Of course, her husband, the Talisman Emperor, had stepped into the Genesis Spirit Realm a decade ago, bing the Nine Hells Conqueror. His talents were far above hers.

    Thanks to the Will of Divine Destion and the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, Moon Fairy and the War Princess had a much simpler time raising their cultivation. By relying on Deste Essence and the Blood Devil Shrine, the two had broken through to the Early Heaven Sanctuary Realm.

    In other words, thebat prowess of Moon Fairy and the War Princess already rivaled that of the Late Heaven Sanctuary Realm.

    Now, with these two avatars merging back with Yun Xiao, hisbined power surpassed that of all three of them attacking Qingzan together!

    After the fusion, Yun Xiao had be one of the top powerhouses of the Nine Hells!

    If it weren''t for the fact that a hybrid body of human, demon, and devil was too conspicuous, easily mistaken for a monster, and difficult to acquire cultivation resources for, Yun Xiao would have kept himself fused long ago.

    However, this was simply digressing.

    "You want to kill her?" Seeing the wounds on Mu Dalong, Yun Xiao''s heart was filled with rage.

    As the revered Exiled Sword Immortal, someone he was supposed to protect got hurt. How could he not be furious?

    So, Yun Xiao threw caution to the wind and revealed his trump card. Now he had only one goal in mind, and that was to make these people pay!

    So what if Qingzan was in the Perfect Heaven Sanctuary Realm?

    Yun Xiao instantly transformed into a whirlwind of bloody silver, howling towards Qingzan!

 Chapter 342: God Devouring All Things

    Chapter 342: God Devouring All Things

    "Mixing and matching, ying god and devil, do you call this the true essence of the sword?" Qingzan scoffed coldly as she gripped her Life Bane Sword Soul.

    She intentionally vibrated the sword in the air to generate a screeching hum, serving both as a beacon for help and a lethal advance towards Yun Xiao.

    The young man before her, with eyes red as blood, seemed both a divine being and a ferocious demon!

    It had to be noted that the Life Bane Sword Soul and Heaven Burial Sword Soul had a strangely simr appearance!

    It was no surprise as the Ku Family that Qingzan hailed from was known for their Sword Dao of Death.

    Her sword, though vibrant in appearance, was a de that plundered life.

    The Life Bane Sword Soul''s grade wasn''t originally this high. Only after Qingzan was married off to the Cmity Seal Purgatory did she acquire treasures from the Inscription Cultivators and elevate her Sword Soul to Upper Ignis grade, just a step below the grade of the Talisman Emperor''s Sovereign Sigil.

    And now, the Life Bane Sword Soul met its match!

    Qingzan was oblivious to the terror of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. Her Heaven Sanctuary Realm sacred power was robust, and the 9,000yers of Sword Aura on her de were no joke!

    "You brat, dare to y an Immortal?" With a cold smirk, Qingzan swung her Life Bane Sword Soul, her Palm Sword technique blooming into a cyan lotus!

    <em>Withered Spirit Sword Canon, Nirvana Lotus!</em>

    Her sword technique, unlike other members of the Ku Family, had a lush, spring-like quality. Yet where her Nirvana Lotus touched, even rocks and dust withered and were drained!

    Such a strike, aimed at Yun Xiao''s head, demonstrated the high skill of the future Sword Warden of the Sword Ruins, her sword sealing off all escape!

    Just now, Mu Dalong had been defeated by this very move, her Sword Soul nearly shattered, her body marked with wounds.

    Facing this attack, Yun Xiao''s eyes held only cold indifference. In a sh, he charged into Qingzan''s sword technique, his azure sword pointing forward, unleashing a Nirvana Lotus of his own!

    This Nirvana Lotus, smaller than Qingzan''s, took the form of a delicate azure lotus, appearing even more exquisite!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Simultaneously, from Yun Xiao''s brow, the Prison Warden Sigil transformed into a Dao Dragon, coursing through his body. The violet dragon merged with his Mortal Dust Blood Vessels, giving his skin an eerie, otherworldly appearance!

    As Yun Xiao thrust his sword, the Runes of the Prison Warden Sigil and the empowered blood vessels on his skin violently intertwined, morphing into ghostly, vine-like patterns of vivid flowers!

    A blood-red rose bloomed gloriously upon him!

    A technique from the Blood Devil Shrine, the Blood Devil Rose, surged from within him, flowing along his sword and amplifying the Nirvana Lotus!

    The mingling of crimson and azure, the ovepping of swordsmanship and blood arts, the fusion of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and the Prison Warden Sigil, culminated in a piercing strike!

    Yun Xiao unleashed the mightiest swordy ever seen. A strike both delicate and deadly, with flowers dancing in the air, an epitome of unparalleled beauty!

    Under the gleam of the sword light, Qingzan''s full-powered Nirvana Lotus was suddenly engulfed and torn apart. Yun Xiao''s strike hit her sword, creating a thunderous explosion!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Qingzan might have had the upper hand in sacred power, but she was utterly outssed in terms of swordsmanship and raw power.

    "Huh?" At the moment of collision, Qingzan''s grip shattered, and she was sent flying like a kite with its string cut. Her Life Bane Sword Soul wailed and fractured in three ces!

    <em>THUD! </em>She crashed to the ground, rolling several times, her magic armor splitting open, drenched in blood!

    "Monster...!" Qingzan''s face turned ashen, nearly suffocating. Facing a youth not yet eighteen, with such overwhelming strength, she began to consider that he might actually be a reincarnated true Immortal.

    Mu Dalong watched in utter shock as the once indomitable Qingzan waspletely overpowered by Yun Xiao.

    "Exile Yun!" Qingzan''s heart stirred. She suddenly got up and knelt down, respectfully saying, "I was blind before, and now realize my actions were ignorant andughable. Please, give me and the Cmity Seal Purgatory a chance to repent and serve you!"

    "Stand up." Yun Xiao, holding the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, approached her coldly. "I don''t wish to kill a kneeling person, but if you insist on staying down, I will do it anyway."

    Qingzan, trembling with despair, pleaded, "The conflict of the Nine Hells will only bring more suffering to the mortal world. If you care for the living, spare us this once!"

    "Spare your granddad." Yun Xiao''s gaze swept over Mu Dalong''s injuries, his anger unabated.

    Now, she knew fear? Apologizing after causing harm? It was toote! Only a fool would ept that. And who knew if Qingzan''s repentance was genuine? Once the Talisman Emperor arrived, she might just start hopping around again!

    Yun Xiao, with his robe fluttering, sliced through the void with his sword!

    "You murderous fiend!" Qingzan felt his murderous intent and couldn''t pretend any longer! She leaped up, her Life Bane Sword Soul transforming into a six-foot Sovereign Sword, furiously attacking Yun Xiao!

    <em>Sovereign Sword Technique, Birth of All Things!</em>

    From Rootless Grass to Nirvana Lotus, and now Birth of All Things, these were the Ku Family''s ultimate sword techniques. Qingzan, standing on her giant sword, fought fiercely. With one strike, all things came to life!

    But in the Ku Family''s philosophy, the fate of all life was death!

    Only with the passing of life could there be a rebirth. So, with this strike, sweeping through the alley, she brought death!

    "Sovereign Sword?" Yun Xiao loved using his enemy''s best techniques against them!

    He lightly stepped onto his sword, standing on Heaven Burial, also invoking Birth of All Things. Where his sword passed, an azure storm raged, even more violent! And behind him, a huge white vortex suddenly appeared!

    This was the second demon magic of Moon FairyGod Devourer.

    <em>God Devouring All Things! </em>

    As the raging vortex spun, all things were destroyed, Yun Xiao''s sword strike waspletely unstoppable!

    Within this, Yun Xiao even added a touch of Moon Fairy''s fox demon illusion magic, causing Qingzan to see her deceased children, Fu Die and Fu Longxiang, within the white vortex...

    <em>BOOM! </em>A sh of Sovereign Swords, the fiercest duel among Sword Cultivators!

    It was either life or death!

    At the moment of collision, cracks had already spread all over Qingzan''s Sword Soul.

    "No!" A cry of despair, unable to stop her Life Bane Sword Soul from shattering into pieces, and even less able to stop Heaven Burial from piercing her chest, driving her corpse forward several hundred meters!

    A whole body, gruesomely ground against the cobblestones of the floor, from feet to head, leaving a trail of bloody froth on the shattered stones!

    In the end, only a ghastly head remained, eyes wide with despair and fear, staring at Yun Xiao. Her face, forever frozen in that most tragic moment.

    "Heaven''s path was open, but you chose not to walk it; hell''s gate was closed, yet you insisted on entering." Yun Xiao stepped off his Sovereign Sword, smoothly retracting Heaven Burial into his body.

    He turned to face Mu Dalong.

    There she stood, at the corner, her lips slightly parted, seemingly oblivious to her own wounds.

    Mu Dalong''s eyes lingered on Qingzan''s head on the ground, her expression a mix of shock and fascination.

    Then, she witnessed Yun Xiao''s body split into three! To his left appeared the fox demon Moon Fairy, and to his right, a mass of blood returned to the body of the War Princess.

    The War Princess''s voluptuous form swiftly regained its allure, making even Mu Dalong feel a tinge of envy.

    "Wow!" Mu Dalong was at a loss for words. Her entire worldview had been shaken.

    "Keep it a secret," Yun Xiao instructed, looking into her eyes.

    "Okay," she nodded, like a chick pecking at grains, her expression one of youthful bewilderment.

    "Let''s head back and tend to your wounds." As Yun Xiao spoke, he picked up Qingzan''s head. Clearly, he intended to make a bold statement to those who had stirred trouble today...

    As he spoke, Moon Fairy promptly left, while the War Princess, noticing someone else present, muttered aint, "You could''ve warned me earlier. It hurt like hell. I thought I was a goner."

    Yun Xiao simply gave her a stern look.

    "Pfft, you act all tough, but you''d hate to see me die," the War Princess retorted, pouting.

    "Get lost," Yun Xiao said bluntly.

    Noticing some movement in the distance and throwing one more annoyed nce at Yun Xiao, the War Princess turned and disappeared into the darkness, clearly reluctant to leave.

    This whole scene left Mu Dalong utterly astounded.

    "Exile Yun..." Mu Dalong stuttered.

    "I told you, no more questions." As Yun Xiao spoke, he stepped onto the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, ready to fly off.

    Mu Dalong mused softly, "You could be a bit nicer to the War Princess, you know. She seems quite smitten with you..."

    "Her?" Yun Xiao grinned. "She''s my little servant, here to serve me. No need for pleasantries."

    "..." Mu Dalong was speechless. She couldn''t help but imagine the <em>little servant</em> being harshly disciplined by Yun Xiao.

    "Come on up," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "Huh?" Mu Dalong was taken aback.

    "Your Sword Soul has a crack. Let''s find your father and get some spiritual items to nourish it," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Okay." Mu Dalong thought to herself, "How considerate..."

    As she was still lost in thought, Yun Xiao swiftly maneuvered the sword, scooping her up in his arms and vanishing from the spot in an instant.

    In the raging wind, Mu Dalong looked up at the young man''s profile. She suddenly found herself reminiscing about her own youthful days.

    If she had met Yun Xiao earlier, would things have been better? But then, thinking of her daughter, she realized that this young man was like an unattainable dream.

    She decided not to dwell on it. She reached out, embracing the youth''s waist, her cheek resting against his chest.

    Yun Xiao did not push her away.

    Soon, the two arrived at the Eight Trigrams arena.

    Mu Dalong let go voluntarily,nding on the ground. Feeling as if her life was nowplete, she smiled softly and looked up at Yun Xiao, saying, "Thank you."

    "For what?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "For giving me a brief, yet beautiful dream," Mu Dalong replied.

    Yun Xiao paused, then said, "No matter where I go, I will alwayse back to the Nine Hells. My home is here."

    "That''s wonderful," Mu Dalong''s eyes reddened slightly.

    "Mhm." Yun Xiao smiled faintly and then walked past her.

    News of the attempt on his life at the Radiance Pce had already been brought back by other Sword Cultivators! The arena was in chaos.

    The Sword Warden had rushed back with a group to rescue him, only to find an empty scene. Unexpectedly, Yun Xiao had returned safely with Mu Dalong.

    For a moment, there was dead silence!

    Everyone''s eyes were on him!

    <em>THUD! </em>Yun Xiao stepped forward and threw a head onto the battle stage.

    It belonged to a long-haired woman. At first, her hair covered her face, and no one knew who she was. But as she stopped rolling, her hair slid away, revealing a face frozen in terror...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 343: Always the Instigator!

    Chapter 343: Always the Instigator!

    "Qingzan!"

    This name was known to all in the Nine Hells, a legend in every ear.

    Her face, once as untouchable as frost, was now overly familiar to the ten thousand strong gathered.

    Just a short while ago, Qingzan was still the Talisman Emperor''s right hand, painting strategies beside him. But now, only her head remained, thrown into the arena by Yun Xiao himself, turning into the center of everyone''s attention...

    The edges of the arena erupted in an uproar, shaking the very air.

    The powerhouses from all hells gasped in shock, their breaths warm enough to raise the temperature of the sealed Immortal Asylum, making the air stiflingly hot.

    Their eyes darted towards Yun Xiao, eyelids twitching wildly.

    "The Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, and others tried to assassinate Yun Xiao, but not only did he survive unscathed, he even beheaded the Talisman Emperor''s wife!"

    "And with that, he''spletely severed the Inscription Cultivators'' connection to the Sword Ruins..."

    Most cultivators from the Nine Hells were left dumbfounded for a moment. They sensed that something big was about to unfold! The Cmity Seal Purgatory wouldn''t let this slide!

    Sure enough, in the next instant, over 2,000 Inscription Cultivators turned red-eyed and flushed with rage.

    "Yun Xiao!" More than 2,000 Inscription Cultivators surged towards the Radiance Gate, their eyes swirling with murderous intent.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Many had already summoned their Life Sigils from between their eyebrows!

    "What Exiled Sword Immortal? He''s merely a brute without morals, daring to attack our Emperor''s wife during the Nine Hells Conquest sh. Can the enlightened ones of the seven hells just sit by and watch?"

    In the midst of the Inscription Cultivators, a woman spoke, her aging face twisted in rage and ferocity.

    "Madame Liuli is right! A life for a life!" Someone from the Yang Devil''s side immediately responded.

    "Whoever protects him, shares his guilt," a resentment demon from the Undead Depths coldly added.

    Just these three hells alone boasted 7,000 Fate Ocean Realm powerhouses, all ready to strike.

    Madam Liuli''s reputation was clearly high. She was the former Talisman Empress, belonging to the same generation as the Sword Warden, and mother to the current Emperor.

    That meant Qingzan was her daughter-inw.

    The current Talisman Emperor rose to power quickly, inheriting the throne early from Madame Liuli. But her stepping down didn''t mean she was weak. To this day, she maintained her Genesis Spirit Realm strength, still one of the top powerhouses in the Nine Hells!

    "His stubborn arrogance has enraged the world. Let''s not bother the Immortal Asylum with this. Once we deal with this viin, the Nine Hells Conquest sh can continue fairly," the Sea Dragon Emperor of the Leviathan Ravine said.

    This man, with blue hair, dragon horns, and a naturally imposing presence, was left out of the Talisman Emperor''s assassination n, to avoid alienating the Phoenix Empress and Netherworld Emperor.

    Now, with the Sea Dragon Emperor exining to the Immortal Asylum and others, it seemed nothing could stop their murderous intent.

    A battle among the powerhouses of the Nine Hells was about to erupt!

    "This kid kills and provokes us openly, isn''t he just giving us a reason to eliminate him?" Madam Liuli coldly stared at Yun Xiao, sneering inside.

    To be honest, she had many conflicts with her daughter-inw. Although Qingzan''s death meant the Inscription Cultivators couldn''t leverage her Sword Cultivator status, Madam Liuli was pleased deep down!

    Madam Liuli felt a wicked satisfaction inside. Qingzan''s death not only brought her joy, but also served as a perfect pretext for an attack.

    "Qingzan, you got what you deserved," Madam Liuli sneered inwardly.

    Violence was about to erupt at any moment!

    Just then, the Inscription Cultivator Shen Xiaochan appeared before Madam Liuli and others.

    "Xiaochan?" Madam Liuli''s face lit up with a fake smile. She nced slyly at Qingzan''s dismembered head and signaled Shen Xiaochan with her eyes, implying, "With Qingzan gone, you can now return as thedy of the Cmity Seal Purgatory."

    She thought Shen Xiaochan would understand her hint, but to her surprise, the young girl coldly responded, "The Nine Hells Conquest sh forbids personal vendettas. Vitors will be expelled from the Immortal Asylum and lose their right topete!"

    Madam Liuli''s smile froze, her expression turning icy as she retorted, "He started it with his personal vendetta of murder!"

    "You''re wrong! It was your people who first tried to assassinate him at the Radiance Pce, breaking the rules of our Immortal Asylum. Only one death this time is your good fortune. If it happens again, the punishment will be doubled!" Shen Xiaochan replied unapologetically.

    "You!" Madam Liuli red at her, usingly, "Shen Xiaochan, are you just settling personal scores? Are you still bitter about being expelled from the Cmity Seal Purgatory, trying to trip us up with your twisted tales? What right do you, a discarded woman, have to represent the Immortal Asylum?"

    The Sea Dragon Emperor chimed in, "Madam Liuli is right... Besides, the Immortal Asylum is just a referee. Its authority is granted by the other eight hells. What right do they have to meddle in our personal grudges?"

    "We may not care about matters outside the Nine Hells Conquest sh, but within Immortal Asylum, we set the rules," Shen Xiaochan replied coldly, sweeping them with her gaze. "And neither your Inscription Cultivators nor the Sea Dragon n speak for the entire Nine Hells."

    The 7,000 Fate Ocean Realm powerhouses bristled at her words.

    Just then, two groups of powerhouses returned!

    They immediately noticed Qingzan''s head in the arena.

    One group included the Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, and Pale Revenant.

    The other was led by the Sword Warden.

    When the Sword Warden returned and saw Yun Xiao unharmed, he breathed a sigh of relief.

    Yun Xiao handed the Sword Warden''s injured daughter back to him, advising, "She''s hurt. You should heal her."

    "But if they tantly attack..." The Sword Warden, eyeing the tense situation, voiced his concerns.

    The rules of the Immortal Asylum seemed to be at the mercy of whims. If the Radiance Pce allowed for murder, why not obliterate the Sword Cultivators in thepetition stage?

    "It doesn''t matter. Someone will intervene," Yun Xiao reassured him.

    "Oh?" This assurance calmed the Sword Warden, but the other Sword Cultivators remained on edge.

    They retreated to Yun Xiao''s side, summoning their Sword Souls, ready to die for Yun Xiao if need be.

    The Talisman Emperor''s return only added to the deadly silence of the scene.

    The Talisman Emperor stood on the arena tform, his face twisted in agony, his trembling fingers betraying his inner turmoil, as if his insides were being shredded.

    Assassinate Yun Xiao? That n had cost him dearly, losing both his wife and his troops.

    Qingzan''s terrified eyes before her death were like cruelshes, whipping the Talisman Emperor''s quivering heart with barbed whips.

    "In opposing me, did you consider if your family is enough to satisfy my vengeance?" In the eerie silence, Yun Xiao''s scornful, coldugh pierced through the Talisman Emperor''s heart like a sword.

    The Yang Devils, Inscription Cultivators, and sea demons nearly choked on their own rage.

    Especially the Talisman Emperor, his eyes bloodshot with emotion. It was clear he held deep affection for Qingzan. The deeper the affection, the more painful it was for him, like he was smashing his own foot with a rock.

    "Kill him!" These words, like a thunderous storm, erupted.

    For a moment, it felt like the whole world''s pressure bore down on those 1,000 Sword Cultivators!

    Their hands trembled slightly, not from fear, but from the sheer number of opponents.

    Interestingly, the Yin Devils,nd demons, and merfolk seemed hardly riled up over Qingzan''s death. After all, it was a humiliating case of an assassination gone wrong!

    Truly a loss of both reputation and swordsmanship...

    Thend demons and Yin Devils, numbering about 4,000, exchanged nces, hesitating to join the fray.

    "Should we shout too?" some old demons asked the Phoenix Empress.

    "Shout what? They didn''t include me in their assassination, why should I bother?" the Phoenix Empress scoffed.

    Clearly, she was irked about being excluded, feeling ack of trust.

    "8,000 against 1,000, with 4,000 onlookers..." The Phoenix Empress knew this was a critical moment. The 8,000 humans, demons, and devils were like a volcano, just waiting for a spark to erupt.

    At that instant, an indignant voice suddenly rose among thend demons.

    "Brothers of the Primeval Demon Hell, join me! Let''s annihte these hypocritical Sword Cultivators!" The voice was unfamiliar, and thend demons turned to see a fox demon speaking.

    "Moon Fairy?" The Phoenix Empress was taken back.

    Before she could react, the fox demon stood at the forefront of the group, ring at Yun Xiao. "Yun Xiao, you rely on the rules of the Immortal Asylum to provoke the other seven hells. Do you really think the Immortal Asylum has the power to restrain the wrath of the Nine Hells?"

    "Don''t they?" Yun Xiao replied with a cold smirk.

    "Heh..." The Moon Fairy scoffed, looking at Yun Xiao with pity, shaking his head. "Such a great Exiled Sword Immortal, gifted beyond measure below the neck. If only you had a brain to match."

    This mockery resonated widely.

    "Right! The Immortal Asylum is just a few people. How can they restrain us?"

    "An eye for an eye is fair!"

    Their furious gazes turned towards all the Sword Cultivators.

    They clearly believed that those who abet tyranny deserved death too.

    "Moon Fairy is right. Yun Xiao is naively ridiculous!"

    "He''s done for. He''s incurred the wrath of all!"

    Suddenly, even the demons from the Primeval Demon Hell rallied behind Moon Fairy, 1,000 strong. They thought once Yun Xiao was dead, the future would belong to Moon Fairy.

    "Such a blight on the natural order should be exterminated. If not now, when?" With a roar, Moon Fairy, fearing the seven hells might hesitate, charged towards the 1,000 Sword Cultivators!

    Transforming into a Four-Tailed Demon Fox, his movements shook the earth, his aura formidable.

    "You beast, how dare you!"

    The Sword Cultivators raised their hands in unison, unleashing countless Sword Souls like a tempestuous rain, targeting Moon Fairy.

    "Despicable!" Moon Fairy rolled and dodged desperately in the midst of the relentless sword rain, escaping in a most undignified manner.

    "Aren''t you brave enough to kill? Are you all useless?!" Moon Fairy looked up furiously, ring at the 8,000 participants from the Cmity Seal Purgatory, Rising Sun Inferno, Undead Depths, and Leviathan Ravine.

    His goading lit the fire fully! Without an officialmand from the Talisman Emperor or Wick Devil, the thousands behind them, consumed by rage, surged forward.

    This volcanic eruption of pent-up anger needed only a leader to ignite the fury of the crowd. The Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, and sea demons were all blinded by rage!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Pausing the Nine Hells Conquest sh, almost 10,000 individuals charged at the 1,000 Sword Cultivators. The earth shook with their thunderous approach, their murderous intent overwhelming!

    All the powerhouses of the Nine Hells gathered here, theirbined sacred power wrought chaos! Even without shing, the Immortal Asylum shook.

    "Yun Xiao is done for!"

 Chapter 344: All Kin Slain!

    Chapter 344: All Kin in!

    When the metaphorical volcano erupted, who cared about the Immortal Asylum? The erupting <emva</em> was forming an overwhelming force, looking like it could swallow a thousand Sword Cultivators whole, burning them to ashes with not even a bone left.

    "Exile Yun!"

    The Sword Cultivators'' hearts trembled, turning to stare at Yun Xiao in a daze. They couldn''t help but be nervous. Surely, they hadn''t bitten off more than they could chew?

    At this moment, even the Sword Wardens heart was pounding.

    "If something goes wrong, it could lead to the extinction of the entire Sword Cultivator lineage!"

    That would indeed make one an eternal sinner...

    In the suffocating moment for these thousand Sword Cultivators, Yun Xiao''s gaze swept over Pale Revenant, Moon Fairy, the War Princess, and that group of merfolk cowering in the corner... His gaze finally settled on Mo Jianzhi, Shen Xiaochan, the Dream Demon, and Kun Jiang, the four delegates from the Immortal Asylum on the high tform.

    Of course, there was also the Old Immortal waiting to clean up the corpses below the stage.

    "No more hiding now, eh?" Yun Xiao thought with a smile. As eight thousand strong were about to cross the stage, right on cue, the Immortal Asylum quartet made their move.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Dream Demon and Kun Jiang triggered a small formation on the high tform!

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    For a moment, a ck and white Taiji radiance dazzled!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The entire Eight Trigrams arena suddenly expanded, forming a giant Taiji formation, slicing the battlefield into nine parts! Apart from the central octagon, there were eight trapezoids around it! This was a grand Taiji!

    Within the grand Taiji, towering ck and white walls suddenly rose, blocking the attacking forces of the seven hells!

    <em>BANG! </em>Many from the seven hells didn''t stop, crashing into these ck and white walls. Not only were they thrown back, vomiting blood, but they were also caught by ck and white mes!

    "Aah!" These ck and white mes burned both body and soul, engulfing the demons, devils, and humans in an instant. They writhed on the ground in agony, screaming pitifully, and were incinerated in less than three breaths!

    In just an instant, at least 1,000 perished tragically!

    The scene was a terrifying spectacle, stunning the entire arena!

    The Inscription Cultivators charged most fiercely and, naturally, suffered the most casualties.

    A staggering 400 fighters in the Fate Ocean Realm met their grim end on the spot!

    After being scorched by the ck and white mes, their flesh and blood melted like ice on a hot day, seeping into the trenches below, their destination unknown.

    This sight left the rulers of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, Rising Sun Inferno, and Leviathan Ravine dumbstruck, their hearts torn anew.

    The Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil, one human, one demon, stood frozen in ce.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>At this moment, Mo Jianzhi and Shen Xiaochan descended, one to the left and one to the right,nding in the central octagon of the Taiji formation!

    "If you eight hells have a feud, you can duke it out after the Nine Hells Conquest sh ends. But starting a ruckus in our Immortal Asylum? That''s asking for trouble! What a waste of several hundred million Immortal Jades," Shen Xiaochan said with a chilling indifference.

    This Taiji formation was clearly even more astonishing than the Ruination Sword Array! Killing so many at once, the expenditure of Immortal Jades was bound to be an eye-watering figure.

    These two seemed quite peeved!

    "We, the Immortal Asylum, uphold the mandate of the Primordial Ruins to maintain peace in the Nine Hells and select the ruler. Do you really think we''re just referees?" Mo Jianzhi scoffed coldly, his icy gaze sweeping over the crowd.

    Some, in their haste, had reached the central octagon before the ck and white walls arose, trapping them now before Mo Jianzhi and Shen Xiaochan!

    Even their own territories were out of reach.

    Among them, the highest-ranking were the Sea Dragon Emperor of Leviathan Ravine and Madame Liuli of the Cmity Seal Purgatory!

    Two Genesis Spirit Realm powerhouses, apanied by a dozen or so others. They were not afraid, but a nce at the ghastly scene of 1,000 dead sent shivers down their spines.

    "The Immortal Asylum has never activated this Taiji Formation before..." The Sea Dragon Emperor gritted his teeth.

    "After all... we''ve never shed here like this before," Madame Liuli''s voice trembled slightly.

    One assault, several hundred million Immortal Jades, in exchange for the lives of a 1,000 in the Fate Ocean Realm, 400 of them Inscription Cultivators!

    With Qingzan dead, Madame Liuli somewhat mourned the loss inbat strength, but the death of these 400 brethren twisted her face in agony!

    "Shen Xiaochan! I nurtured you, and you repay kindness with enmity! How can you still show your face in this world?!" Madame Liuli''s face twisted with fury, unleashing all her anger on the robed woman.

    "Fu Liuli, the punishment of the Immortal Asylum isn''t over yet," Shen Xiaochan suddenly said, her voice icy.

    "What do you mean?" Madame Liuli''s brows furrowed.

    No sooner had her words fallen, Shen Xiaochan''s eyes suddenly rolled back, leaving her pupils eerily white.

    This only made her appear more sinister!

    Abruptly, she reached for her forehead and pulled out a pitch-ck Life Sigil!

    This Life Sigil, resembling a map of a dark abyss, brimming with ghastly bone-white inscription runes, cast a gloomy atmosphere over the entire Immortal Asylum.

    "18,000 Runes?" Yun Xiao eximed in surprise, his pupils shrinking. That was 3,000 more than the Talisman Emperor!

    The remaining Inscription Cultivators exploded with shock inside. A castaway, an exile, had surpassed the Talisman Emperor in Rune count after seeking refuge in the Immortal Asylum?

    "What?" Madame Liuli''s eyes bulged, breathless.

    "Those who defy thews of the Immortal Asylum, perish!"

    With a flick of her wrist, Shen Xiaochan''s Life Sigil engulfed Madame Liuli, who was still in shock.

    Sizzling sounds filled the air!

    Madame Liuli''s body emitted thick smoke as the ck Life Sigil wound around her, like a venomous snake coiling around its victim. Her flesh burnt, bones twisted.

    Her neck stretched a full foot in length!

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    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>In her agonizing screams, Madame Liuli perished on the spot.

    "So powerful!" Yun Xiao frowned deeper.

    Blue Star had warned of the formidable power these four possessed, but even Yun Xiao hadn''t anticipated this level of strength.

    Madame Liuli was in the Genesis Spirit Realm, but she was crushed and obliterated by Shen Xiaochan in both body and soul!

    "Madame Liuli!" The Sea Dragon Emperor, in his prime, was terrified, hisplexion changing dramatically. He hurriedly addressed Shen Xiaochan and Mo Jianzhi. "We were wrong. I am willing to lead the Leviathan Ravine in admitting our fault to the Immortal Asylum and abiding by its rules!"

    "Toote, this is a prime opportunity for a lesson!" Mo Jianzhi stepped forward, conjuring a white Sword Soul with a coldugh, "Sorry, but you''re the example."

    "20,000yers of Sword Aura!" The Sword Cultivators around gasped, the atmosphere tensed to the breaking point.

    "You!" The Sea Dragon Emperor, a Hell Warden, never in his wildest dreams imagined that a mere Sword Cultivator from the Immortal Asylum would have a Sword Aura double that of the Sword Warden!

    Trapped in the central octagon, where could he run?

    "To arms, fight our way out!" hemanded. But before he could finish, Shen Xiaochan''s Life Sigil split into several parts, striking towards the Inscription Cultivators and sea demons beside him.

    And Mo Jianzhi, like an impassive automaton of the sword, lunged at him!

    <em>ROAR! </em>The Sea Dragon Emperor transformed into a majestic deep blue sea dragon, enveloping the area in a misty, endless fog. The octagon became a vast sea with him at its tempestuous heart!

    Mo Jianzhi plunged into the sea, his white Sword Aura boiling the waters where it passed.

    The murky waters obscured the view, but from outside the Taiji formation, thousands of onlookers from the Nine Hells watched this blurred yet fierce battle between sword and demon!

    The lethal intent of 20,000yers of Sword Aura even prated the Taiji formation, sending shivers down the spines of all demons present!

    The battlested longer than usual, but by the second half, only the Sea Dragon Emperor''s agonized roars were heard.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>The vast sea turned into a sea of blood, rapidly evaporating until nothing was left.

    When the dust settled, only Mo Jianzhi and Shen Xiaochan remained standing in the octagon.

    What sent chills down the spines of the demons was the sight of Mo Jianzhi, absorbing the Sea Dragon Emperor''s demonic essence with his white Sword Soul.

    The entire Immortal Asylum fell into a deafening silence!

    Everyone exchanged nces, a chill running down their spines.

    In their eyes, the terror instilled by these two members of the Immortal Asylum was almost on par with the Talisman Emperor.

    Only someone of that caliber could publicly execute the ruler of an entire hell like the Sea Dragon Emperor!

    The Leviathan Ravine was left leaderless! Every sea demon''s face paled, struck by a devastating blow! Instinctively, they recoiled, daring not to make a move.

    The Inscription Cultivators suffered even greater losses!

    "The Talisman Emperor''s mother, wife, children, and sister... all dead..."

    While people shuddered inwardly, they suddenly remembered Yun Xiao''s words from earlier.

    "Cross me, and do you have enough kin for me to y?"

    In that moment, a shiver ran through the crowd. All eyes turned to the Talisman Emperor, standing shrouded in darkness, his face obscured. Only his blood-dripping eyes were vividly visible One could scarcely imagine the destion in his heart after the demise of his entire family.

    "Is this the fate of those who oppose Exile Yun?"

    "Insisting on the demise of Yun Xiao, and now, their own kin are wiped out..."

    One by one, the demons and devils who had just been bold retreated into their shells.

    In the Primeval Demon Hell, many demons who had followed Moon Fairy in his bravado now instinctively stepped back.

    The Yin Devils of the Endless Netherworld and the merfolk of the Reverie Abyss remained motionless from start to finish!

    And those Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, and sea dragonsinitially the most aggressive and foolhardy with 8,000 strong, now reduced to less than 7,000were bleeding inside, forced to bow their heads.

    The frustration was palpable.

    The Immortal Asylum fell intoplete silence.

    Finally, Mo Jianzhi withdrew his white Sword Soul. His eyes, which had lost their pupils, began to regain a semnce of humanity.

    He nced around and said indifferently, "Let me inform you, the Immortal Asylum has no desire to be the ruler of the Nine Hells because we have other, more important duties. We don''t have time to deal with you. Understand?"

    This fact was unknown to the Hell Wardens of the Nine Hells for centuries.

    "In other words: We are your masters, not your referees!" Shen Xiaochan chimed in with a chuckle.

    Silence continued to dominate the crowd.

    Mo Jianzhi suddenly smiled, then raised his hand. "No objections, right? Good, the Nine Hells Conquest sh shall continue."

    After his words, the Taiji formation receded, and normalcy returned.

    Yet, the entire Eight Trigrams arena remained eerily quiet.

    Mo Jianzhi announced a number! Seven bearers of tokens from the seven hells obediently stepped onto the battle stage, while the Sword Cultivators continued to abstain... This meant that everything that had just transpired was merely an interlude!

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    The struggle for supremacy had to go on!

    "That''s more like it." Mo Jianzhi crossed his arms and smiled reassuringly. Then, he turned to Yun Xiao and raised an eyebrow, his gaze oddly amused.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 345: Cunning Fox

    Chapter 345: Cunning Fox

    Throughout the ordeal, Yun Xiao only threw a single head into the fray. It seemed like he did hardly anything, yet he caused the Cmity Seal Purgatory and Leviathan Ravine to lose two peak powerhouses in the Genesis Spirit Realm. And in the Leviathan Ravine, even their Hell Warden met his demise in the Immortal Asylum!

    Such an event was unheard of in history...

    The four-person delegation of the Immortal Asylum now loomed over the other eight hells like a dark cloud.

    "Let''s head back to the Radiance Pce," Yun Xiao said with a smile to Mo Jianzhi, then turned and left as if nothing had happened.

    "Does Exile Yun need" The Sword Warden started to offer his personal protection, but before he could finish, Yun Xiao left him with a simple, "No need."

    "Understood." The Sword Warden nodded, already seeing Yun Xiao as a leader.

    "Dad, was Exile Yun so sure that the Immortal Asylum was strong and would intervene?" Mu Dalong asked in a low voice, her eyes filled with admiration.

    "Nonsense. His foresight surpasses ours. He can seize the initiative," the Sword Warden remarked thoughtfully.

    "But what if the Immortal Asylum hadn''t intervened just now? Wouldn''t we have been in danger?" Mu Dalong remembered the scene, still feeling a bit scared. It was 8,000 vs 1,000a death sentence no matter how you sliced it!

    "You don''t understand," the Sword Warden said with a cold smile. "The alliance between the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil is above everyone. They led the seven hells against Yun Xiao. But the more terrifying Yun Xiao''s abilities appear, the more some will fear him. Like the merfolk of the Reverie Abyss... When the real fight begins, who will truly exert themselves? That''s always uncertain."

    "I see," Mu Dalong nodded. She nced across the way. Clearly, after the suppression by the Immortal Asylum, the other hells were chilled to the bone, each harboring their own thoughts and standing on different grounds.

    "So, the only opportunity left for the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil to kill Exile Yun is in the uing second round?" Mu Dalong asked coldly.

    "The Immortal Asylum emphasizes rules, but the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil are not the types to sit idly by. Stay vignt," the Sword Warden cautioned gravely.

    "Yes!" Mu Dalong nodded.

    "Let''s patch you up first," the Sword Warden said, looking at her tenderly. "This time... you were lucky to escape with your life."

    "It wasn''t so bad. I always had this feeling that Exile Yun wouldn''t let those loyal to him die, so I wasn''t afraid," Mu Dalong said, her eyes warming.

    "You trust him that much?" the Sword Warden asked softly. "So, how did he y Qingzan? Isn''t she in the Perfect Heaven Sanctuary Realm?"

    "Dad, that''s a secret," Mu Dalong suddenly said with a yful smile.

    "You child" The Sword Warden couldn''t help but smile through his tears. He stroked his long beard, gazing in the direction of the Cmity Seal Purgatory, and remarked with a sigh, Today was truly exhrating.

    Why is that?

    Ive always despised two women the most; one is Qingzan, and the other is that despicable old hag Fu Liuli. Today, both met more miserable ends than the other. How could that not be exhrating?! The Sword Warden clenched his fist, his face a mix of dark satisfaction. The ancestors were right, trust in Exile Yun for eternal life.

    "..." Mu Dalong remained silent. She found that ever since Yun Xiao, showed up, even her father seemed to have gotten more immature.

    Meanwhile, the Fate Ocean Battle Royale continued, and the battles in the Eight Trigrams arena raged on.

    Apart from the Sword Cultivators withdrawing from the fight, the seven hells continued to show no mercy in their alliance, fiercelypeting for the title of Nine Hells Conqueror.

    No one was willing to back down!

    As time passed, more and more people retreated to their respective guest pces to rest.

    After the Immortal Asylums censure, there were no more assassination incidents in the guest pce.

    In the Shake Pce, this was the resting ce of the Primeval Demon Hell, ranked fifth among the hells.

    Deep within one of the chambers, after a bout of passionate encounters, the atmosphere was filled with the energy of spring.

    After the storm, the enchanting and majestic Empress of the Azure Phoenixes leaned back on a recliner, modestly covering herself with just an azure feather fan, radiating beauty.

    Herplexion was flushed, alluring and charming. Despite appearing delicate, her body resonated with earth-shattering power.

    In her imposing embracey a silver-haired young man, controlled like a child, unable to move, his face flushed red.

    It couldn''t be helped. This was a woman who had been an Empress her whole life, always dominating any situation. Moon Fairy, who was supposedly tasting the joys of life, was actually getting <em>eaten</em> by the Phoenix Empress.

    You little rascal, she whispered into his ear, her hot breath tickling him, her eyebrows raised yfully. Youre quite the sly one, arent you?

    Huh? Moon Fairy looked up, his gaze traveling over the lofty barrier to her chin and nose.

    It was the Talisman Emperor who was still considering, but it was you who lit the fuse, leading to the deaths of Fu Liuli and the Sea Dragon Emperor, causing the demise of a thousand in the Fate Ocean Realm, the Phoenix Empress chided, pinching his cheek with a slight frown.

    Its a misunderstanding! Who could have guessed that the four-person delegation of the Immortal Asylum was so strong? If I had rushed in, I surely would have perished too, Moon Fairy nestled beside her, speaking softly.

    Stop pretending in front of me, the Phoenix Empress said, halfughing, half crying. She grabbed Moon Fairy''s fox ear tightly, her tone serious. Confess and it''ll be easier on you. Youe from the Heavenly Land, and so does Yun Xiao. You two are clearly in cahoots, tricking everyone here.

    Moon Fairy was momentarily stunned, then a glint shed in his eyes as he said, You guessed it, youre really smart.

    A fox is always cunning! The Phoenix Empress red at him. Now that youve confessed, lets get straight to the point. Do you want my Primeval Demon Hell to protect Yun Xiao?

    Yes, Moon Fairy nodded.

    Silly boy, do you not know of the enmity between Sword Cultivators and demons? she said.

    I do, he replied.

    How can this grudge be resolved? How can we possibly protect our enemy and let him grow strong enough to annihte our race? The Phoenix Empresss eyes filled with a touch of sorrow. Little fox, I quite like you. If it were someone else saying the same thing, Id have twisted his head off by now.

    But even if you oppose him, do you think you can stop his rise? Moon Fairy asked solemnly.

    The Phoenix Empress fell silent.

    After a long while, she shook her head. Before the assassination attempt, I still had hope. But now, I feel despair. That guy is a freak; he has something about him that even you cant match.

    Youre quite frank, Moon Fairy whispered into her ear. So you should understand this: opposing him means extinction, but supporting him at least lets us live on. After all, if the Sword Cultivators rise, the Leviathan Ravine will bear the brunt first.

    Thats a tough pill to swallow, she said coldly.

    Thats reality, he replied.

    The Phoenix Empress looked at him deeply. I thought you were the hope for the rise of our Primeval Demon Hell. Turns out youre his spokesperson?

    Regretting it? he asked.

    Having cultivated for so many years, I haven''t found and demon that caught my eye. Your arrival was just what I needed, so no regrets. She sighed softly. Its just a pity. The hope of our demon race turns out to be someone elses underling.

    Moon Fairyughed for a while at this. After hisughter subsided, he calmly said, Dont worry, he and I are equals. The Nine Hells are ourmon goal. To achieve it, the Cmity Seal Purgatory and the Rising Sun Inferno are our real enemies.

    Really equals? she asked, concerned about this point.

    Indeed it''s just that he tends to be more dramatic, while I, on the other hand, am much purer, Moon Fairy imed.

    You pure? With all your tricks, you''re definitely no saint! the Phoenix Empress snorted, still irked by the thought.

    She had really lost out on this deal!

    Speaking of which, you and Yun Xiao, dont have some weird rtionship, do you? she asked, suddenly feeling a chill at the thought.

    "What do you mean by <em>weird rtionship</em>?"

    "You know, man on top, with another man"

    "Have you gone senile? Such wild thoughts?" Moon Fairy said, exasperated.

    "You never know. You do look a lot like a girl." The Phoenix Empressughed, then her gaze drifted downward, unable to help but remark, "Such a fine fox"

    "I don''t have time for this nonsense." Moon Fairy extended his hand to her. "Now that we''re being honest, let''s establish this alliance. Give me some startup funds."

    "What startup funds?" The Phoenix Empress suddenly had a bad feeling.

    "Making friends costs money," Moon Fairy exined.

    "You?" She looked at the little fox, halfughing, half crying. This was like keeping a pricey pet fost time he wanted resources, now he wanted money!

    "With the Nine Hells in flux, if you dont want to fall behind, you need to invest," he said bluntly.

    "How much?" she asked, biting her lip.

    "100 million Immortal Jades!" Moon Fairy said, not batting an eye.

    The Phoenix Empress nearly choked. She looked at him incredulously. "Do you even realize how much that is?"

    "Of course. Youre the only one who can afford it," he said.

    "Youre asking for the moon!" she snapped.

    "Stop dithering. Either pay up or I''ll find another wealthy patron," he said.

    "..." The Phoenix Empress was speechless. What in the world was this creature?

    "If you werent so good-looking, Id tear that mouth of yours," she said coldly.

    "Enough chit-chat, goodbye!" Moon Fairy got up to leave.

    "W-wait!" she said sharply, biting her lip as she stared at him.

    "What now?" he asked.

    "You want 100 million Immortal Jades? Make it worth my while first!" she dered.

    "..." Now, it was Moon Fairy''s turn to be speechless. Ah well, he might as well consider repaying a debt to his main body. He coughed and said, "Let''s get one thing straightpayment upfront."

 Chapter 346: Gathering at the Field Palace

    Chapter 346: Gathering at the Field Pce

    Meanwhile, over at the Bound Pce, which was assigned to the Endless Netherworld, there was a small gathering. The War Princess and Netherworld Emperor, along with a handful of her uncles, were all crammed into one of the halls.

    The Netherworld Emperor nearly choked on his tea, spraying it out in disbelief. "100 million Immortal Jades?" he eximed, eyes wide as saucers. "Why don''t you just hold up a passing Immortal while you''re at it?"

    The War Princess, with a fire in her belly, shot back, "Just cough it up and quit whining, Dad!"

    Second Uncle tried to y peacemaker. "That''s an Emperor''s ransom! Only the imperial treasury can cough up that much. Your dad''s got, what, 30 million Immortal Jades at most? Let''s not put him on the spot."

    And then there was the Lion Duke, trying his hand at reason. "What''s a little girl like you gonna do with all those Immortal Jades, huh? It''s not like there''s a shopping district in the Immortal Asylum you can splurge at."

    But the War Princess wasn''t having any of it. With a raised eyebrow that could''ve cut ss, she turned on them. "Daddy''s only got 30 million?" she mused aloud. Then, with a sweep of her gaze, she had them cornered. "Fine. Each of you six cough up 10 million, and we''ll call it even."

    Her imperial uncles'' faces turned as dark as a stormy sky, their mouths agape at the unexpected turn. It seemed their attempts at diplomacy had backfired spectacrly.

    "Any more lip, and I''ll take myself out!" the War Princess thundered, her threat hanging in the air like a guillotine.

    The Netherworld Emperor and the rest exchanged nces, their faces as long as a horse''s. "Well, my little chili pepper, at least tell us what you need all this money for?" the Netherworld Emperor ventured.

    "None of your beeswax," came the snappy retort.

    "..." The Netherworld Emperor fell silent.

    "Are we doing this or not?" The War Princess stamped her foot, and the whole pce shuddered. Her power, clearly surpassing several of her uncles, was on full disy.

    With resigned looks, they finally caved. "Alright, alright, we''ll pay up!" the Netherworld Emperor relented.

    "But I haven''t even taken a wife yet," the Lion Duke wailed, the very picture of despair at the thought of his dowry flying out the window.

    "Another peep out of anyone, and you''re not leaving this room," the War Princess warned, barricading the door with the threat of sheer brute force.

    With that, they scrambled together, scraping up just shy of 100 million Immortal Jades. It was close enough, for all intents and purposes.

    With a nod from the War Princess, her imperial uncles were finally allowed to take their leave, their pockets considerably lighter. The Lion Duke, looking like a storm cloud had settled over his head, couldn''t help but throw in a word of caution, "Make good use of this money, and don''t you let any no-good scoundrel sweet-talk you out of it."

    He trudged off, the very picture of woe. The War Princess coughed awkwardly, acknowledging the truth in his words. After all, the very scoundrel he warned her about was the one she intended this fortune for.

    Soon, only the Netherworld Emperor remained, casting a long shadow in the dim light.

    "I''m off then," the War Princess dered with a stiff air, turning to leave.

    "In such a hurry to deliver it to him?" the Netherworld Emperor inquired, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity.

    The War Princess paused, turning to face the somber middle-aged man shrouded in shadows. Before she could answer, he ventured softly, "Is Exile Yun treating you well?"

    Her heart skipped a beat, and she stumbled backwards, flustered. "How did you...?" she stuttered.

    "A father knows his daughter," the Netherworld Emperor said with a gentle smile, shaking his head. "You changed after returning from the Heavenly Land... and since Exile Yun hails from there, it stands to reason he''s the cause."

    "Oh, so you were just guessing?" she muttered under her breath.

    "Did he help you awaken your Nine-Tiered Bloodline, showing you kindness?" he probed further.

    "It''s more than that," she admitted, still visibly nervous.

    "More than that?" His gaze deepened, a mix of concern and intrigue.

    "Just... don''t worry about it. I''ll be fine..." she tried to reassure him, her voice steadier. "Dad, no matter what, I''m in a much better ce than before, right? I once thought I''d seek death by 18."

    "I know." He nodded.

    "So?"

    "Do as you wish. You have my unconditional support," he said, his smile warm and reassuring.

    "Aren''t you afraid I might be exploited, dragging the Endless Netherworld down with me?" She bit her lip, voicing her deepest fear.

    He shook his head. "The thought has crossed my mind, and yes, I''ve worried. But as a father, I choose to trust my daughter."

    "Dad..." Her eyes welled up with gratitude.

    He simply smiled, a silent testament to his faith in her. Many parents tended to fret over their children''s every move, driven by ack of trust. But not the Netherworld Emperor.

    "Go on," he encouraged.

    With a determined nod, her eyes zing with renewed courage, she felt invigorated by his trust. "Don''t worry! These 100 million Immortal Jades are an investment. I''ll repay you, with interest, someday!"

    With that, she vanished into the shadows, leaving only her determination trailing behind her.

    The Netherworld Emperor leaned against the doorway, watching her departure with tears welling in his eyes. "Dammit!" he cursed under his breath. "If only I''d known daughters could drive a man to such despair! The mere thought of some swine eyeing my precious girl is unbearable!"

    He clutched his chest, his face turning a shade of purple from sheer frustration.

    "Dad, what''s wrong?" the War Princess called out, ncing back suddenly.

    "Ahem, nothing, my little chili pepper." The Netherworld Emperor waved her off with a cough. "Off you go, to embrace your brilliant destiny."

    "You''re ridiculous!" she shot back with an eye roll, then turned and disappeared.

    Three days whizzed by in the blink of an eye.

    Half of the Fate Ocean Realm participants who''d been staying in the Eight Trigrams arena had already taken their leave.

    The rankings were still led by the Cmity Seal Purgatory, with the Undead Depths and Rising Sun Inferno trailing in second and third, respectively. The Eternal Sword Prison, meanwhile, wasnguishing at the bottom.

    It seemed to everyone that the Cmity Seal Purgatory was on track to remain the ruler of the Nine Hells for the next decade. However, with the sudden rise of the Immortal Asylum, shifting from a mere referee to the master of ceremonies, the allure of the Nine Hells Conqueror title had somewhat waned.

    Moreover, with Yun Xiao still very much alive and kicking, a sense of disillusionment had begun to spread. "Yun Xiao is a freak of nature. If we let him continue his cultivation, we''ll stand no chance at all."

    "After the beating he tookst time, can the Talisman Emperor really just sit back and do nothing?"

    The Nine Hells Conqueror, having nearly lost everything, how could he just stand by?

    Indeed, the observant ones soon noticed that the arena, which had been under the watchful eyes of the Overseers, Hell Demons, and Devil Generals in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm, was now devoid of their presence.

    Only the Fate Ocean Realm participants remained.

    "Who called them away?"

    "It must have been the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil..."

    In the hallowed and shadowy halls of the Field Pce, over 200 figures lurked in the darkness, forming a sinister assembly. These individuals, divided into seven factions, were the titans of the Nine Hells, each a pinnacle of existence in their respective domains and nearly all wielding the reins of powerful families.

    They were peak existences in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm, a rare breed in the Nine Hells, numbering just over 200. The Sword Ruins alone used to boast nearly thirty such individuals, but that number dwindled with the demise of the Withered Bone Keeper and his Ku Family.

    Excluding the Sword Ruins, a staggering ny-five percent of the Heaven Sanctuary Realm experts were gathered right here. The Cmity Seal Purgatory, Undead Depths, and Rising Sun Inferno each contributed around 40 of these formidable beings. The other hells fell in the range of 20-30, with the Primeval Demon Hell slightly edging out with 34, nearly matching the Rising Sun Inferno.

    Among this illustrious gathering was none other than the Phoenix Empress herself, along with the Netherworld Emperor and the Siren Empress. The Leviathan Ravine had a new figurehead, the sister of the Sea Dragon Emperor, known as Ao Yuan, a formidable female dragon demon d in blue armor.

    With such a gathering, it was a given that the Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, and Pale Revenant were in attendance. The Talisman Emperor, shrouded in gloom, sat in the deepest part of the chamber, his hands resting on the armrests and his head bowed. Ever since the tragic loss of his wife and mother, he hadn''t uttered a single word in public, his heart a cauldron of vengeful fury.

    "Ladies and gentlemen!" The Wick Devil, aze with infernal fire, stood at the center, his burning gaze sweeping over the crowd. "We are convened today because I possess a foolproof method to annihte Yun Xiao in an instant, beyond the reach of the Immortal Asylum''s reproach. I seek the collective might of all present to safeguard the original order of the Nine Hells and to exterminate Yun Xiao, the foreign fiend!"

    "The collective might of all? What does that entail?" the Phoenix Empress asked.

    The Wick Devil''s fiery eyes fixed on her as he pronounced each word with grave emphasis, "One-tenth of everyone''s blood essence."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 347: Killed Without Mercy!

    Chapter 347: Killed Without Mercy!

    "One-tenth of everyone''s blood essence?" The Wick Devil''s words plunged the over 200 Heaven Sanctuary Realm powerhouses in the dark hall into a mood of varying shades of gloom. Among them, the change was most pronounced in the Yin Devils of the Endless Netherworld.

    For both Yin and Yang Devils, blood essence was the foundation. Losing even a fraction could lead to a regression in cultivation, a grievous injury indeed.

    For humans and demons alike, the loss of a full tenth of one''s blood essence was a significant depletion.

    Many furrowed their brows, their gazes sharp as they looked toward the Wick Devil, whose eyes burned with rage, waiting for a reasonable exnation.

    With eyes ame, the Wick Devil''s voice was low and fierce. "The situation hase to this, and I believe everyone understands. If we don''t make a bold move now, we''ll lose any chance we have."

    "Out with it then, what''s this bold move?" the Phoenix Empress asked, her voice cool and detached.

    Beside her, Moon Fairy listened with rapt attention, his face alight with curiosity.

    The Wick Devil scanned the room and then let out a menacingugh. "Have any of you heard of the Blood Oath Curse of my Rising Sun Inferno?"

    Most of the Heaven Sanctuary Realm powerhouses shook their heads.

    "A curse that withers the spirit and life?" In the ensuing silence, only the Netherworld Emperor, with his chilling gaze, spoke out.

    "My brother knows me well." The Wick Devilughed heartily. "This Blood Oath Curse is an ancient forbidden blood art from the Rising Sun Inferno, thought to be lost to time. Lucky for me, I unearthed it from our ancestral grave three years ago, and today, it proves its worth."

    "It wasn''t lost; it was banned by the ancestors of the Nine Hells for its malevolence," the Netherworld Emperor stated coolly.

    "You joke, brother," the Wick Devil retorted, his heavy brows raised in amusement as he nced at the Netherworld Emperor. "A curse that can annihte the cmities of the Nine Hells in an instant should be considered a great merit. How can it be deemed malevolent?"

    "When ites to daoist spells, there is no good or bad, only effectiveness," a voice as cold as the deepest winter echoed from the dark, belonging to the Talisman Emperor.

    "Yes, that''s right," came a voice from the Leviathan Ravine. Ao Yuan stepped forward briskly to throw her weight behind the support for this Blood Oath Curse on behalf of her people. She cast a meaningful nce at the Wick Devil. "Do us the honor of shedding light on this Blood Oath Curse of yours."

    The Wick Devil, with a flourish, presented his palm for all to see. Sharp-eyed, the crowd spotted a strand of hair, fine and short, resting there. "This here is a lock of hair from Yun Xiao," he dered with a smirk, clearly having acquired this trophy in the previous assassination attempt.

    "And then?" the audience prompted, leaning in.

    "With this Blood Oath Curse, we''ll draw a tithe of blood from each of you, anoint this hair with it, summoning the world''s curses to besiege this so-called Exiled Sword Immortal. He''ll find no quarter and wither away to nothing but a husk, a fate so pitiful and inescapable!" the Wick Devil concluded, his eyes aze with ruthless fire.

    The revtion sent shivers down the spines of everyone present. Inescapable and irrevocable!

    Such a vile and forbidden art, it was no wonder the ancestors pressured the Rising Sun Inferno to <em>lose</em> it.

    Had Yun Xiao not been a thorn in their side, the mere knowledge of the Wick Devil possessing such a horrific art would have sent everyone into a frenzy of self-preservation.

    In the ensuing hush, the Wick Devil''s voice rose, "You all are the backbone of the Nine Hells, burdened with a grave mission! The more blood essence the Blood Oath Curse consumes, the stronger it bes. With your contributions, we''ll orchestrate the mightiest strike in the history of the Nine Hells... Should we seed, not even a thousand lives would spare Yun Xiao."

    With that, he surveyed the crowd, his gaze piercing.

    Stepping out from his shadow, the Talisman Emperor moved into the light. The crowd noticed that the colorful-haired man seemed to have aged overnight, his majestic aura dimmed, reced by a chilling bloodlust. The sunken eyes and dull gaze were particrly unnerving.

    "The Blood Oath Curse is our best shot at wiping the te clean of all the crises guing the Nine Hells. It demands the collective effort of every cultivator present, to ensure a foolproof n." The Talisman Emperor''s dull eyes swept over theplex faces in the crowd. "Yun Xiao must die. Does anyone object?"

    The Wick Devil and his counterpart created a chilling atmosphere, one with a cold murderous intent and the other with a fierce, zing demeanor, pressing down on everyone present with their dual auras.

    "Merely one-tenth of our blood essence, if it can rid us of this evil, it''s a bargain!"

    The most influential Inscription Cultivators and the Yang Devils were quick to rally in support. Theirbined forces in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm numbered over 80, making up more than a third of those present.

    "With such a swift method to eliminate the threat, it''s our duty as cultivators of the seven hells," whispered a ghostly pale girl surrounded by an eerie entourage of resentment demons from a corner. This was none other than Pale Revenant.

    With their endorsement, they represented over 120 Heaven Sanctuary Realm cultivators, more than half of those gathered.

    This was not just about the Blood Oath Curse; it was about taking a stand. To drip or not to drip blood was the question, a test of loyalty.

    "We of the Leviathan Ravine pledge ourselves to the cause, even unto death," Ao Yuan dered, her gaze cold as she turned to the representatives of thest three hells.

    With nearly 150 in agreement, what remained were those from the Primeval Demon Hell, Endless Netherworld, and Reverie Abyss. Theirbined might barely reached 70, less than half of the opposition.

    All eyes turned to the Phoenix Empress, the Netherworld Emperor, and the Siren Empress, awaiting their decision, trying to read their resolve from their expressions.

    "Siren Empress." The Wick Devil stepped forward, his gaze aze as he addressed the noble mermaid sovereign, her regal bearing entuated by waist-length, wavy aquamarine hair and a figure that was nothing short of sculptural, especially the slender, powerful waist beneath her breastte, resembling a true work of art.

    What really caught everyone''s eye was her tail, shimmering in red, green, and blue, gently swaying in the air, swirling with the mighty force of the vast ocean.

    The Wick Devil, wearing a genial smile, broke the ice, "Lately, the Reverie Abyss has been rather quiet, sparking doubts among our peers. This lingering uncertainty does no good for the unity and solidarity of our alliance. So, after a chat with the Talisman Emperor, we''ve decided to give the Reverie Abyss a chance to prove its allegiance!"

    The Siren Empress and her entourage from the Reverie Abyss, huddled in a corner, nodded solemnly, signaling him to proceed.

    "It''s simple," the Wick Devil continued, his smile widening into a grin. "The Reverie Abyss will lead the Blood Oath Curse by being the first to contribute their blood essence. By doing so, you''re actively participating in the noble act of vanquishing Yun Xiao, leaving no room for fence-sitting or any thoughts of serving him."

    The Talisman Emperor, with a frosty tone, added, "When a fiendish cmity invades, all seven hells breathe as one, sharing amon fate. No one can remain neutral. Recent murmurs within the Immortal Asylum have cast aspersions on the Reverie Abyss. I trust, Siren Empress, that your decisive action today will silence the critics and prove the wisdom of your hell."

    Their words, seemingly calm, were as sharp as des.

    The Wick Devil''s voice deepened, "Please," as he gestured. The strand of Yun Xiao''s hair on his palm suddenly ignited with a crimson blood fire, unleashing a terrifying and ferocious aura that swept across the room.

    "This Blood Oath Curse symbolizes the united resolve of the seven hells to exterminate this fiend, sealing our pact in blood. Any who harbor hope of escape are enemies of all and deserve to be cast into the abyss of history, their lineages extinguished."

    Holding up the zing blood fire, the Wick Devil faced the Siren Empress with a smile. "Come, lead your wise and brave people into the collective struggle of the Nine Hells against foreign invaders. The curse ignited by the blood of your people will surely be extraordinarily potent. The moment Yun Xiao falls under this curse, he''ll feel the fiery vengeance of the Reverie Abyss against the Sword Cultivators!"

    The Siren Empress, her face a mask of ice, retorted, "Wick Devil, history has shown the Blood Oath Curse to be a ruthless and unprincipled art. Its spread could endanger the peace of every being in the Nine Hells, inevitably leading some tomit mass ughter for blood..."

    "Exactly! Right you are!" The Wick Devilughed heartily, thumping his chest. "Thank you for the reminder. So I dere here and now, should this art seed in ying that fiend, I will seal it away for good. Should it ever leak, let the Rising Sun Inferno be deemed themon enemy of all Nine Hells!"

    At these words, many in the crowd visibly rxed.

    From the ranks of the Leviathan Ravine, Ao Yuan expressed her admiration, "The Yang Devil n always thinks big. They''re truly admirable."

    The Wick Devil responded with a light chuckle, his eyes aze as he turned to the Siren Empress, his voice dropping, "Does anyone from the Reverie Abyss have further doubts?"

    Met with the Siren Empress'' silence, he added with a chilling edge, "I''m offering you a chance here, make sure to cherish it..."

    In that moment, it felt as if all the cold murderous intent in the room was focused on these 20 merfolk!

    Thinking of ying it safe? In your dreams! Neither the Talisman Emperor nor the Wick Devil would afford them such a luxury.

    In that instant, a storm raged in the Siren Empress'' heart. After exchanging looks with her kin, she clenched her teeth and dered to the Wick Devil with unwavering resolve, "Forgive my bluntness, but I am certain you won''t be able to kill Exile Yun."

    Her words plunged the dark hall into a deathly silence.

    Many faces turned sour in an instant!

    A cold murderous aura permeated the hall.

    "And so?" the Wick Devil smirked, the volcanoes in his eyes erupting with greater fury.

    "We from the Reverie Abyss withdraw from this so-called Blood Oath Pact. Do as you will." The Siren Empress was certainly facing a tempest within, yet she made her choice.

    It was a path of life or death!

    The Blood Oath Pact offered no middle ground. She believed that once they drew blood against Yun Xiao, the Reverie Abyss would have no future.

    Perspectives on the same issue could vary widely.

    The Reverie Abyss may have been at the bottom of the Nine Hells, but they had their own corner of peace and their own understanding of the world. The emergence of Yun Xiao resonated with their innate notion of beauty and perfection.

    Their adherence to perfection made it nigh impossible for them to betray their deep-seated reverence. They trusted everything their eyes beheld, so even knowing the path ahead was fraught with hardships, they made their choice.

    "You bunch of foolish fish, I''m not surprised to see you stray, but to openly court death is something I hadn''t expected," the Talisman Emperor said coldly.

    There they were, in the midst of stirring up a storm, and someone dared to defy them publicly. How could they let these dissenters leave to spread the word?

    Clearly, the situation was beyond repair.

    The Wick Devil cocked his head, a sudden smile breaking across his face. "I believe this is just the Siren Empress''s wishful thinking. The rest of you from the Reverie Abyss surely see the clear picture. You needn''t pay for the Siren Empress''s folly. So, please, step aside!"

    As the merfolk from the Reverie Abyss were about to speak, the Siren Empress raised her arm in front of them,manding, "Step back!"

    "You wish to face me alone?" the Wick Devil sneered.

    "To die for one''s beliefs is to die without regrets."

    The Siren Empress lifted her chin, casting a disdainful nce at the Wick Devil, "In the portrait of Exile Yun, you appear asical as a kitchen hand. Even if you kill me, the only path left for your Yang Devil n is extinction."

    The Wick Devil''s smiling face twisted instantly.

    "Is your brain swollen from too much time in the water, perhaps?" With a cold remark, the Wick Devil put away the Blood Oath Curse and summoned the Dragon Wick Seal in his other hand.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Enveloped in mes, he charged at the Siren Empress with the Dragon Wick Seal in hand.

    "Scatter!" The other Heaven Sanctuary Realm powerhouses in the hall twitched and immediately retreated to the corners.

    Many humans and devils protected themselves with their daoist spells, while the demons relied on their physical resilience.

    "Any who attempt to flee amidst the chaos will be shown no mercy!" From a higher vantage point, the Talisman Emperor''s icy and deadly pronouncement pierced through the hearts of all present.

 Chapter 348: The First Drop of Blood!

    Chapter 348: The First Drop of Blood!

    The top powerhouses of the Nine Hells fell silent, their gaze deep and turbulent as they watched the sh of these two rulers in the Genesis Spirit Realm, their hearts awash with undercurrents. Especially notable were the Primeval Demon Hell and the Endless Netherworld!

    These two hells had yet to dere their stances when the Wick Devil made his move against the Reverie Abyss, sending a clear warning. This left thend demon and Yin Devils in aplex state of mind.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Yang Devil''sbat style was brutish and fierce, and with the addition of the Dragon Wick Seal, the Wick Devil gained the upper hand almost immediately.

    "If this were the sea, you might stand a chance against me. But onnd, what hope do you have?" the Wick Devil sneered. His Yang Devil blood art conjured a world aze with a blood-red inferno!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Thend trembled and cracked under the suppression of the Dragon Wick Seal!

    The Talisman Emperor deployed a barrier technique to contain themotion, lest it be heard from the distant Eight Trigrams arena.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Siren Empress summoned a tri-colored tidal wave, forming a vast sea orb.

    With her formidable physical strength, she initially withstood the Wick Devil''s assault. But soon, the blood-red mes overwhelmed the tri-colored tide, and the Dragon Wick Seal descended from the heavens, nearly shattering the Siren Empress''s spine!

    The Wick Devil was a whole stage above her!

    The Siren Empress''s defeat was unsurprising to all.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Dragon Wick Seal left her bloodied, her arms nearly broken, hanging by threads of flesh.

    "Your bones aren''t so tough, are they?" The Wick Devil''s wickedughter filled the air as he grasped the Siren Empress by the neck, lifting her for all to see.

    Pale-faced yet with a fiery gaze, the Siren Empress retorted coldly, "What''s there to be proud of? You couldn''t defeat me in the Reverie Abyss."

    "Ha ha" The Wick Devil chuckled, conjuring the Blood Oath Curse in his other hand.

    "Your Exile Yun will thank you for this first drop of blood essence."

    As expected, despite the Siren Empress''s resistance, the Wick Devil proceeded to forcibly draw her blood!

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>The Blood Oath Curse, like a crimson beast,tched onto the Siren Empress, drawing out her life force amidst her tremors!

    The Wick Devil''s sneer was a cold p to the face of any woman in power, questioning their sense with a scorn that could freeze hellfire.

    "What good does it do you to grovel before that fiend, Yun Xiao?" he jeered, his words a thunderbolt that left not just the Siren Empress but the Phoenix Empress stung by its venom. This was his brutal way of teaching a lesson, a warning to all who dared to cross him.

    The Siren Empress, battered and bruised, was caught by her kin, barely clinging to life. Tears glistened in the eyes of her people, but she silenced their cries for vengeance with a weary shake of her head. In that moment, they knew the folly of rash action.

    In the eerie silence that followed, the Wick Devil wielded the forming Blood Oath Curse with a grin that could curdle blood, his voice cutting through the air like a knife, I believe the rest of you have more sense than to waste your blood in vain. So, make it quick! hemanded, and the merfolk, with eyes red as the deepest sea, had no choice but toply, their pride bleeding away with each drop.

    "Now, that''s more like it. With this blood, we''re all brothers of the Nine Hells, no need for roughhousing." The Wick Devilughed, a sound as grating as the scraping of bones.

    With no one to stop the Blood Oath Curse from reaching its vile fruition, the atmosphere shifted, heavy with despair. The Yin Devils of the Endless Netherworld felt the chill of their own hell, and the Primeval Demon Hell''s denizens found a twisted purity in the ordeal, unbothered by the thought of betraying their sword wielding contemporaries.

    Moon Fairy chuckled. "The Siren Empress is wise."

    "Indeed." The Phoenix Empress mused, her voice a haunting melody. "She made her stand, and now, can Yun Xiao really me her for her forced sacrifice?"

    "Why don''t you take a leaf out of her book?" Moon Fairy suggested, his gaze sharp and knowing.

    The Phoenix Empress''sughter was a cold gust, "If it were me, I''d tear the Wick Devil limb from limb, the ugly bastard that he is." Unlike the Siren Empress, she was a demon of thend, the Wick Devil''s equal in power.

    "Who do you think they''ll coerce next?" Moon Fairy shifted the conversation, his words light as feathers but heavy with implication.

    The Phoenix Empress pondered, then shook her head. "They wouldn''t dare try the same trick twice. We''re not as easily bullied as the merfolk, and without any open allegiance to the Sword Cultivators, they''d be fools to provoke us."

    "But in the end, you''ll still have to bleed. It''s the mark of allegiance," Moon Fairy pointed out, his voice tinged with inevitability.

    "So be it," the Phoenix Empress replied, her gaze fleeting, "Or are you saying your friend can''t handle a curse fueled by a few hundred strong?"

    "Why don''t you try bearing the curse of all the realm''s mightiest."

    "And what would you have me do? Flip the table?" the Phoenix Empress asked, her spirit unyielded, ready to upend this whole charade at a moment''s notice.

    Moon Fairy, about to speak, caught sight of someone in the crowd and pursed his lips, suggesting a pause. "Let''s hold off on flipping tables for now, and watch how things unfold."

    By this point, all the demons of the Reverie Abyss had been forcibly bled, their essence fueling the Blood Oath Curse which morphed into a blood-red siren, its visage twisted in a snarl that sent shivers down the spine of all who beheld it. The curse, fed by the blood of merely twenty demons, was already dauntingits potential for terror was unimaginable if amplified tenfold.

    "What do we do? What do we do?" the War Princess fretted, her face paling, hands clutching her chesta gesture misunderstood by her father and uncles as a sign of physical pain.

    "Silence is your best recourse," came a cold voice from her heart, its tone seething with anger yet oddly reassuring to the War Princess. A glint of resolve shed in her eyes as she nced at the Wick Devil and the Talisman Emperor, her intent to retaliate barely concealed.

    In a hushed tone, the Netherworld Emperor inquired, "What''s the n, my little chili pepper?"

    Arms crossed, the War Princess exuded confidence, "Just keep quiet. That''ll do!"

    Subsequently, the sea dragons of the Leviathan Ravine volunteered, with one stepping forward to bleed next. The addition of their blood transformed the curse into an even more grotesque entity, with the upper body of a dragon and the lower body of a fish, its roar now mingled with the sea dragon''s cry, intensifying its menace.

    Post-sacrifice, the sea dragons appeared visibly weakened, their vitality drained, hinting at a significant reduction in theirbat effectiveness by 10-20%a setback that could hinder their performance in the uing round. But if bleeding was the solution, who was toin? After all, if everyone was bled, the ying field was leveled.

    "Any objections?" the Wick Devil asked, post-Leviathan Ravine''s contribution, looking towards the Netherworld Emperor and the Phoenix Empress, who responded with dismissive smiles.

    "Bold!" the Wick Devilmended.

    "The Yang Devils should lead by example," the Phoenix Empress quipped with a smirk.

    "Agreed." The Wick Devil chuckled, and forthwith, forty Yang Devils stepped up to contribute their blood. Their essence,patible with the curse and imbued with sacred power, augmented the curse''s potency far beyond thebined contributions of the previous groups.

    With the integration of the Yang Devils'' blood, the curse underwent another transformation, now embodying a bloodthirsty me devil with the tail of a fish and the head of a dragon, its ferocity chilling to the bone.

    "Not bad, as expected of the strongest devil n." The Phoenix Empress smiled. With a curious tilt of her head, she turned her gaze to the Inscription Cultivators and remarked, "I wonder how the blood essence of humanity''s strongest will transform the Blood Oath Curse?"

    The Inscription Cultivators bristled at the Phoenix Empress dictating the order, as if thend demons held power over them. But in truth, the order of things mattered little in this grim ritual; what mattered was themitment it symbolized.

    "Proceed," the Talisman Emperormanded, eager to expedite the process.

    Over 40 or so venerable Inscription Cultivators stepped forward, each contributing their blood essence to the curse. The act drained them significantly, their advanced ages making the sacrifice all the more taxing.

    Infused with human blood, the curse took on a more humanoid form, its malevolence tempered, yet its intent to kill seemed only to sharpen.

    "I wonder how the addition of the resentment demons will transform the curse. After all, their inherent grudges have a fundamental affinity with blood arts," the Phoenix Empress spected.

    Her words rankled not just the resentment demons but the Yang Devils and Inscription Cultivators too. Despite her strength, none appreciated her presumptuous orchestration of events, a role not even the Wick Devil had assumed.

    "Go." But before any protest could escte, a ghostly whisper from Pale Revenant quelled the brewing discontent, prioritizing efficiency over ego.

    With a collective re at the Phoenix Empress, the resentment demons made their contribution. As eternal foes of the Sword Cultivators and indifferent to the Phoenix Empress''s ambitions, they were unconcerned by her machinations. The appearance of Moon Fairy, however, introduced an element of unpredictability, prompting the Wick Devil''s caution.

    In the eyes of the three dominant factions, neithernd demons nor resentment demons could alter the inevitable course, thetter''s contribution marking a profound transformation in the curse. It morphed into a grotesque amalgamation of human, devil, and demon, standing as tall as a man and exuding the presence of a living me of blood.

    Its mere existence sent a chill through the crowd, a silent testament to its lethal potential, seemingly sealing Yun Xiao''s fate.

    With the curse nearlyplete, only the contribution from Pale Revenant remained, the final piece of this dark puzzle.

    In that moment, all eyes from the seven hells were riveted on Pale Revenant. There she stood, barefoot before the Blood Oath Curse, her gaze lost, herplexion pallid, her aura otherworldly, like a little girl who had drowned.

    Yet, this girl was one of the supreme rulers of the Nine Hells,manding a mix of fear and respect from demons, devils, and humans alike.

    "Pale Revenant grows more formidable by the day," they whispered amongst themselves. "A demon of her caliber would never tolerate the presence of an Exiled Sword Immortal."

    The Wick Devil, with a warm smile, turned to her, "It''s all yours, Pale Revenant."

    With a slight nod, she stepped forward to confront the curse, marveling at its divine might even before its activation.

    "Indeed! Once unleashed, not even a true Immortal can save Yun Xiao," the Wick Devil said with a sinisterugh.

    Pale Revenant cast a final nce at the Talisman Emperor, who seemed consumed by his own vendetta, fixated on the curse.

    "How intriguing," she murmured, reaching into the curse''s core to grasp the single strand at its heart.

    In an instant, the curse''s power surged up her arm, scorching it to a charred skeleton.

    In any other scenario, such a daring act would have resulted in instant incineration. But not for Pale Revenant, whose regenerative abilities were nothing short of miraculous. As her bones resisted crumbling, flesh burgeoned only to be devoured by mes anew, a sight that struck awe and terror in equal measure.

    The Blood Oath Curse was formidable, but the spectacle of the deep-sea resentment corpses resilience was equally so.

    The Wick Devil, rmed, trembled as he cautioned, "Pale Revenant! Release it at once. We must not disturb the primer before the curse is activated!"

    With an indifferent nce, she ignored the advice. Bending forward, she swiftly plucked the strand from the curse''s core.

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>That single strand, absorbed by her flesh, left the Wick Devil staggering, blood spewing from his mouth in shock.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Deprived of its core, the curse disintegrated into a cascade of murky blood, flooding the ground and silencing the crowd in stunned disbelief.

    All eyes, wide with shock, were fixated on Pale Revenant, including those of the 40 plus resentment demons, all at a loss for words...

    In the eerie silence, Pale Revenant turned around. Known for her stoic demeanor, her lips unexpectedly curved into a slight smile, a rare disy of amusement. With disdain in her voice, she uttered two words, "Mere ants."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 349: Irreconcilable Feud With the Sword Cultivators!

    Chapter 349: Irreconcble Feud With the Sword Cultivators!

    "She has destroyed the Blood Oath Curse!" Incredulity echoed through the silent, dark hall. Many couldn''t trust their own eyes at this revtion.

    Marked for death by Yun Xiao, Pale Revenant''s desire to kill Yun Xiao should have been on par with that of the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil. How could she, for the sake of Yun Xiao, sabotage the grand n to rid this scourge from the Nine Hells?

    The creation of the Blood Oath Curse hade at a great cost to most involved.

    Now, seeing the vital essence they had sacrificed spill futilely onto the ground was, understandably, a bitter pill to swallow.

    "What is happening" For a long while, those powerful beings of the seven hells, taken aback by Pale Revenant''s actions, found themselves at a loss to ept this reality.

    Not just them, even the Wick Devil and the Talisman Emperor, close at hand, struggled toprehend, shaking their heads in disbelief.

    "Have you lost your mind? Do you realize what you''ve done?" the Wick Devil roared, eyes bloodshot, his heart bleeding at the sight.

    Pale Revenant cast him a nd look, her face devoid of emotion, evidently unwilling to entertain any further discourse.

    "Do your actions honor the billions of resentment spirits from the Undead Depths who support you? the Talisman Emperor pressed her, his voice chillingly cold.

    "Pale Revenant!" The 40 or so resentment demons of the Heaven Sanctuary Realm converged around her, their gazes filled with iprehension.

    One among them, a spherical entity covered in dark red eyes, known as Wraith Eye, voiced his indignation, "You owe the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil an exnation!"

    Once the ruler of the Undead Depths, Wraith Eye had been surpassed in power by Pale Revenant in recent years, willingly ceding his throne to her. He even imed to have nurtured her rise.

    To this day, Wraith Eye held immense prestige within the Undead Depths, representing the core interests of all resentment demons.

    "Right!" The resentment demons, too, had just offered up their vital essence for the Blood Oath Curse. Watching Pale Revenant squander such a powerful tool, they were all seething with anger. Everyone was up in arms, except for the merfolk, Yin Devils, andnd demons.

    Their trump card, gone in a puff!

    Confronted by the threatening aura of over a hundred powerful beings, including the resentment demons, Pale Revenant remained silent but suddenly made her move.

    With a cold gaze, she swept her hand dramatically! A buzzing sound filled the air, and from her slender frame burst forth endless tidal waves!

    In an instant, the entire space of the dark hall was engulfed by a raging sea, the tumultuous waves carrying countless pale wisps of resentment, the immense power sending shockwaves throughout!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The encroaching powerful beings of the Heaven Sanctuary Realm were swept away, tumbling through the angry sea in utter disarray.

    Such vast oceanic force, mingled with the cries from the abyss, resentment, and demonic energy, instantly transformed the ce into a deep-sea hell, suffocating and terrifying all who were caught in it.

    "So strong!" The War Princess, clutching onto a pir with her Weeping Netherblood whip to stabilize herself.

    Her dark red eyes sparkled as she observed the chaotic seascape before her. She noticed the remnants of the Blood Oath Curse, now being dissolved into the sea, on the verge ofplete eradication.

    "Hey, aren''t you going to seize the opportunity?" she urged, impatiently. No sooner had her voice faded than the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity surged within her, turning her delicate form into a vortex of blood.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The scattered blood of humans, devils, and demons in the vast sea, which should have dispersed, was now being frantically drawn towards the War Princess.

    The deafening roars filled the entire area, causing chaos and confusion, with bodies flipping over in disarray. Amidst this turmoil, no one noticed the transformation of the War Princess.

    "A tenth of the blood essence from about 170 strong beings in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm. That''s not a small amount," the War Princess mused with a hint of surprise.

    Her cultivation, which had been at a standstill, unexpectedly surged forward. The Wick Devil''s supposedly unbeatable forbidden move not only failed but backfired, injuring them and, inadvertently, bolstering her own power.

    She found herself lying down, marveling at the rapid advancement of herbat abilities.

    "It''s peculiar, isn''t it? Why would that deep-sea corpse demon aid him? Wasn''t she out for his blood just a while ago?" The War Princess was thoroughly baffled by this turn of events.

    She had thought that this moment might force her to reveal her connection with Moon Fairy, but even then, it wasn''t certain that they could neutralize the Blood Oath Curse. Puzzled and without any other usible exnation, she mused, "That fellow must have some unique way of dealing with women. I''ll have to be more cautious around him."

    With no other exnation forting, she concluded, "Breaking through two stages, I''ve reached the Late Heaven Sanctuary Realm! With my current strength, I''m virtually invincible below the Genesis Spirit Realm."

    The War Princess felt as though she was on a wild horseback ride, with the horse galloping beneath her, yet it was her own power that soared. Aplete windfall!

    Only when the tumultuous sea within the dark hall finally calmed did she reflect on her unexpected gains.

    After the seawater receded, the ck hally in ruins, its grandeur lost to chaos and destruction.

    "That sea corpse demon fled, and so did the merfolk?" The War Princess scanned the wreckage but found no one.

    The grim faces of the Yang Devils, Inscription Cultivators, and resentment demons were a clear sign. The n had beenpletely botched.

    "Regardless, it seems the Reverie Abyss has openly sided with him," the War Princess couldn''t help but marvel.

    A young man, seemingly without lifting a finger, had garnered the allegiance of an entire hell... That''s some feat.

    As for the resentment demons of the Undead Depths, pirs of the Nine Hells'' oceanic domain, rebellion against Pale Revenant was out of the question!

    "Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil!" Wraith Eye, with a sour expression, addressed the crowd alongside his fellow resentment demons. "We had no inkling of her motives. This debacle was unforeseen... Now, all we can do is decipher her intentions. Rest assured, there''s no chance we''d bow to a mere human Sword Cultivator!"

    "Her path leads only to her demise. Her thoughts matter little now. Should the opportunity arise, we''ll end this traitor And you, Wraith Eye, may reim your throne," the Wick Devil snarled, clearly incensed.

    The resentment demon exchanged nces, their faces a mask of chilling resolve, choosing to remain silent.

    "Yun Xiao''s primary identity is that of a Sword Cultivator, and Sword Cultivators detest demons above all. As leaders of the demons, should Sword Cultivators rise, we''d surely be oppressed... For our descendants, retreat is not an option in this battle!" Wraith Eye dered grimly to the other resentful spirits.

    Their grudges and hatred ran deep, fueling their resolve.

    "You''re right," the Phoenix Empress added coldly, "Pale Revenant enjoyed the resources of the Undead Depths yet betrayed us, a crime deserving of death. She may seek refuge with that fiend, but we cannot. We stand for all demonkind, and without Yun Xiao''s demise, peace will elude us all!"

    "Even without Pale Revenant and the merfolk, our core strength in the seven hells alliance remains intact. There''s no need for despair," Ao Yuan offered words offort.

    Among them, only the Netherworld Emperor and the Yin Devils had remained mostly silent.

    "The problem now is, with the Blood Oath Curse gone, our only chance to eliminate him is in the uing round," the Phoenix Empress stated coldly.

    "Whether we can kill him depends on the rules set by the Immortal Asylum... It''s just uncertain what those rules might be this time," Ao Yuan pondered.

    In fact, the rules of the Fate Ocean Battle Supremacy had been pretty favorable to them, offering them an opportunity to almost assassinate Yun Xiao.

    "We''ll see!" the Wick Devil dered, his brow furrowed in a storm of fury, as he exchanged nces with the Talisman Emperor. It was clear they were backed into a corner with nowhere to turn.

    "The rules of the next round are a gamble," the Wick Devil intoned ominously. "If they fail us, then at the end of thispetition, each realm shall unleash a million troops to storm the Eternal Sword Prison. What say you all?"

    His gaze swept across the room, pausing on the figures of the Phoenix Empress, Netherworld Emperor, Ao Yuan, and Wraith Eye.

    "A million from each? Six million in total, just toy siege to the Sword Ruins?" The Phoenix Empress raised an eyebrow in disbelief.

    "Not the Sword Ruins," the Wick Devil growled. "We''ll target the ten cities of the Eternal Sword Prison, forcing Yun Xiao out of hiding to atone for the deaths of countless Sword Cultivators."

    His words cast a chilling silence over the assembly.

    "It''s been millennia since the Nine Hells waged a war that engulfed the innocent," the Netherworld Emperor remarked from the shadows, his voice detached.

    "me the Exiled Sword Immortal for sparking this conflict; he''s a scourge on history." The Wick Devil chuckled coldly.

    "The path of cultivation is a battle against fate itself," the Netherworld Emperor said gravely. "To oppress the weak and sacrifice the innocent is to defy the heavens and disrupt the world''s bnce."

    "Is that so? Then the Endless Netherworld can opt out, just like the merfolk," the Wick Devil sneered. "Brother, it was the obstinate Sword Cultivators who courted annihtion. If you wish to y the saint, you risk dooming your own kind. Is it worth it?"

    The Netherworld Emperor hesitated, then offered a wry smile. "You joke, Brother Wick. Our feud with the Sword Cultivators is irreconcble. We''re not out for bloodshed, just to corner that fiend Yun Xiao... If he refuses to die, their blood is on his hands, not ours."

    "The Netherworld Emperor speaks wisely!" Ao Yuan whispered in admiration.

    "Indeed! He''s a true brother of our devil kind," Wick Devil replied, a slight smirk on his lips, his gaze intense.

    "Let''s prepare then," the Talisman Emperor added, his voice carrying an icy finality.

    "It all hinges on the rules of the final showdown. If favorable, we might just send him to his doom," the Wick Devil mused, aware of Yun Xiao''s lifeline.

    "As long as the battlefield is sealed, even the tightest shell has its breaking point. Then, peace will reign in the Nine Hells, and the people will find tranquility."

    "History will remember our contribution."

    With their pact sealed, the newly formed six hells alliance returned to the arena, awaiting the start of the next round.

    Along the way, the War Princess casually tossed a Bag of Holding into a corner. It contained a portion of the rare beads from the Endless Netherworld, more than she needed for now.

    Before long, a silver-haired figure strolled by, discreetly picking up the bag and tucking it away.

    "Stay close. Don''t wander off," the Phoenix Empress chided, ncing back at him.

    With a slight smile, Moon Fairy nodded in assent.

 Chapter 350: In This Life, I Will Die For You!

    Chapter 350: In This Life, I Will Die For You!

    Atop a roof on the Radiance Pce, Yun Xiao, d in white, sat cross-legged, his body shimmering with a ghostly white light. A small ck creaturey on his legs, its gaping maw tirelessly nibbling on Immortal Jades, one after another. With almost 200 million Immortal Jades in his pocket, scrimping was a thing of the past.

    "Half for living off others, half for dowry in advance, you''re really something," Blue Star said, rolling his eyes in disdain.

    "A gentleman earns his wealth honorably," Yun Xiao retorted with his eyes closed, dismissing thement.

    Scoffing, Blue Star quipped, "Well, if it wasn''t for your new loyalpdog, that Blood Oath Curse would''ve had you in a real pickle. Nasty business, that."

    "Just someone seeing the light. Let''s not be so harsh," Yun Xiao replied, his eyes cracking open to gaze toward the Field Pce, his expression turning deadly serious. "Those bastards, daring to assassinate me, using forbidden blood arts to erase me, and even endangering innocents..."

    His anger was reaching a boiling point. It was like they were haunting him incessantly, challenging him at every turn since his debut. Every confrontation ended with Yun Xiao standing tall, yet they became increasingly desperate.

    "Let''s hope the next round brings a stringent set of rules, settling scores once and for all," he muttered under his breath, his voice as cold as ice.

    As he prepared to resume his cultivation, Blue Star suddenly announced, "Yourtest admirer has arrived."

    Yun Xiao stood and turned, finding a young, dreamlike girl standing in the night behind him. Barefoot on the rooftop tiles, her simple white dress danced in the wind, revealing glimpses of her snow-white skin through the fabric''s tears.

    She was enchanting, with a mncholic beauty that tugged at the heartstrings, yet her presence was unsettling. The rich stench of death clung to her, as if she were a corpse fresh from the grave. She might still be warm, but she was undeniably dead.

    "Immortal Yun..." she murmured, hugging herself against the chill, her eyes trembling as she looked at him.

    "Come here," hemanded, fixing his gaze on her.

    "Yes." Gliding over the tiles like a weightless breeze, she arrived before Yun Xiao, her scent a unique blend of youthful freshness and the hollow void of the deep sea. It wasn''t exactly pleasant, but it was certainly memorable.

    "Why save me?" Yun Xiao asked calmly, looking down into her eyes, as deep and empty as the ocean.

    "You are the answer at the end of the world, not meant to fade away," she replied, her voice tinged with nervousness.

    "The answer at the end of the world?" That sounded like a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.

    Yun Xiao cracked a smile, his lips barely parting, then pressed on, "Ever thought of yourself as one of those demons?"

    "I am human..." came the shaky reply from Pale Revenant, her voice betraying the turmoil within, touching on her deepest inner struggle.

    "You''re human, yet you loathe the human world," Yun Xiao observed.

    "Yes..." Her response was barely audible, drowned in a sea of sorrow.

    "You don''t care for the deep sea, nor do you fancy thepany of demons. You can''t stand to be part of their ranks, a vessel of hatred... Yet, the resentment you bear pushes you towards losing yourself, turning into a corpse filled with endless grievance from the deep sea," Yun Xiao continued, peeling back theyers of her torment.

    "Immortal Yun..." Pale Revenant lifted her head, her hollow eyes brimming with tears, a sight unseen by any soul.

    To the world, she was a beacon of resentment, but to Yun Xiao, she was always the little girl thrown into the sea to feed the sea demons.

    "Fear grips you because the part of you that''s truly Pale Revenant is dwindling. You''re not sure when your spirit will vanish entirely, leaving behind nothing but a patchwork of spite," Yun Xiao said softly.

    <em>THUD!</em> Pale Revenant knelt down, tears streaming down her face, "Immortal Yun, please, save me."

    "So, you believe I can save you?" Yun Xiao looked down at her, his gaze probing.

    "I don''t know..." Pale Revenant was a picture of confusion. "All I see is the endless deep sea, a world shrouded in darkness... But you, you shine brightly."

    "Stand up," Yun Xiaomanded.

    "Yes..." Wiping away her tears, she slowly rose, her eyes filled with a mix of anxiety and reverence towards Yun Xiao.

    As Yun Xiao reached out, possibly to wipe her tears, she instinctively recoiled like a scared bird.

    "What did you feel the day you were cast into the sea?" Yun Xiao retracted his hand, asking gently.

    "Endless fear," she replied.

    "That fear has seeped into your soul, rotting it to the core." Yun Xiao sighed.

    "Such is the human world..." Pale Revenant managed a bitter smile.

    "In an era of strife, where might is right, and the survival of the fittest is thew of thend, beneath thedder of cultivation, with its rigid hierarchy, aren''t we all but mere ants, as long as there are rungs above us?" Yun Xiao suddenly grasped her shoulders, pulling her closer, looking deep into her eyes. "Having endured so much, try to see beyond it. At least you can still witness the myriad changes of this vast world, unlike those who sank into the sea and vanished."

    "Yes." Pale Revenant instinctively shrank back, but upon realizing Yun Xiao wasn''t applying much force, her tension eased, and she rxed.

    "You''re quite remarkable," Yun Xiao suddenly said with a smile.

    "What?" Pale Revenant asked, puzzled.

    "You could have lost yourself to the resentment, bing a full-fledged spirit of vengeance. But you haven''t. You still cling to a sense of self, a flicker of hope. That alone is extraordinary," Yun Xiao exined with a gentle smile, "That makes you unique."

    "Unique..." Pale Revenant echoed, still somewhat lost. Yet, in her vacant eyes, a spark began to twinkle, however faint.

    "Pale Revenant," Yun Xiao''s gaze intensified, his voice deep and solemn, "If I am the light, then let me illuminate your path in this life."

    "Immortal Yun..." Before she could grasp the weight of his words, the Prison Warden Sigil appeared in Yun Xiao''s hand. The nine dragons within the sigil seemed to stare at Pale Revenant, and in an instant, herplexion turned ashen, with wisps of smoke rising from her form.

    "No!" Her expression turned fierce, ready tosh out and flee from Yun Xiao.

    But Yun Xiao was prepared. With lightning-fast reflexes, he ced the Prison Warden Sigil on her forehead.

    Pale Revenant shuddered violently. She opened her mouth in a silent scream, her body convulsing as if drowning, her eyes wide with terror as she copsed.

    Yun Xiao caught her in his arms.

    "Immortal, Immortal..." she iled, then clung to him desperately, like a drowning person grasping for a lifeline, her grip tight and tears streaming down her face, sobbing uncontrobly.

    The white smoke of resentment evaporated from her, wailing and howling in terror at the sight of the Life Sigil, before dissipating into nothing.

    "It''s over," Yun Xiao reassured her, stroking her hair tenderly, his eyes filled withpassion. She was like a little sister with a tragic past, her struggle and fear evoking sympathy from anyone who saw her.

    Hearing Yun Xiao''sforting words, her trembling gradually ceased, and the fog of her despair lifted.

    As she looked up, her eyes brimmed with tears, but her gaze was filled with intense admiration for Yun Xiao, a beacon of light in her darkness, her love for the light burning fiercely within.

    "How do you feel?" Yun Xiao asked lightly as he tucked away the Prison Warden Sigil.

    "It''s like... all the unhappiness and fear have vanished. I feel so light, like I''ll never sink again," Pale Revenant responded, a bit dazed.

    "I''ve cleansed you of the resentment of corpses and the grievances of souls. You''re almost entirely yourself now, even looking quite like a vibrant living being," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "Am I human again?" Pale Revenant asked, bewildered.

    "No." Yun Xiao shook his head. "This Life Sigil can''t change your essence. Your body remains that of a deep-sea corpse demon. Your power hasn''t diminished, and as you continue to grow, those resentments will gather around you once more."

    "What should I do then?" Pale Revenant asked anxiously, clearly relishing her newfound liberation.

    "Simple, we''ll just cleanse you again when the timees." Yun Xiao chuckled, pinching her cheek.

    "Ah... okay." She flinched instinctively at first, then, as the impulse to flee subsided, this tender gesture brought a blush to her otherwise pale face, and even the sound of a heartbeat could be heard.

    "Does this mean I can stay by your side forever?" Pale Revenant asked, looking up nervously.

    "Stay by my side?" Yun Xiao shook his head. "That would only drag you back down into the deep sea."

    "Why?" she asked, her voice trembling.

    "I aim to climb to the pinnacle of the Heavenly Dao. To keep up, you need to grow! And the only way for you to do that is to umte corpses and gather their resentment. As a corpse demon, you''re inherently a creature of the heavenly path, with endless potential. But to embark on this journey, you must continue to wade through seas of corpses," Yun Xiao exined.

    "It''s okay!" Pale Revenant didn''t hesitate to respond.

    "Are you sure?" Yun Xiao initially hoped she would find release, to live almost as a human, free from the fear of the deep sea.

    "Yes." Pale Revenant suddenly reached out, gripping his arm with a determined look. "I''ve grown ustomed to everything in the sea. As long as I''m with you, I''m willing to be lost forever..."

    Yun Xiao fell silent.

    "Immortal Yun, from this moment on, my life belongs only to you." Pale Revenant let go of his arm, her gaze resolute, and gently knelt down. Her frame was slight, but her resolve was unshakeable. "Please let me, in this life, die for you."

    Yun Xiao looked down at the fragile girl before him, his emotionsplex. "Alright!" He nodded deeply, then extended his hand with a cheeky grin. "First, let''s have you pay off that cleansing fee with 100 million Immortal Jades."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 351: Apex Battle!

    Chapter 351: Apex Battle!

    In the blink of an eye, nine days had passed, and the Fate Ocean Battle Royale was drawing to a close. Those cultivators who had been resting in the guest pces found themselves, as the end approached, gravitating back to the vicinity of the arena, eager to witness the climax of this titanic struggle in the Nine Hells.

    The arena was encircled by thousands of individuals from the Nine Hells, their gazes flickering with uncertainty. Many among them had been embroiled in the fray, bearing the brunt of heavy losses, especially after the Blood Oath Curse incident. Following this, both the Reverie Abyss and the Sword Ruins opted out ofbat, leaving the six hells to continuously vie for dominance, a struggle that resulted in no small number of casualties.

    After 900 battles, at least a thousand fighters in the Fate Ocean Realm lost their lives, with the wounded numbering over 3,000. This grim tally spoke volumes. Their united front against Yun Xiao did not dampen their individual thirst for the title of Nine Hells Conqueror. If anything, their battles only deepened the enmity between them, a storm yet to reach the higher echelons in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm.

    "The Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil''s attempts at assassination have failed twice now, losing us the Reverie Abyss and that Pale Revenant. Whether Yun Xiao lives or dies hinges on the uing Apex Battle."

    "Have you heard? If Yun Xiao isn''t taken down this time, there''s talk ofunching a full blown war!"

    "Is it really that serious?"

    "It might just be a ploy to pressure Yun Xiao into the apex battle."

    "But considering the Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, and Phoenix Empress'' vendetta against Yun Xiao, rallying an army of millions from the Dao Heart Realm to attack the Eternal Sword Prison wouldn''t be surprising..."

    Even as the Fate Ocean Battle Royale neared its end, whispers and rumors swirled among the power yers of the Nine Hells.

    "The Fate Ocean Battle Royale is almost over. Has everyone arrived?"

    "The moment of truth hase!"

    Eyes darted about, taking in the sight of the realm''s overlordsthe Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, Phoenix Empress, and othersall in ce with a deadly seriousness in their gaze. A chilling intent to kill permeated the battlefield.

    Yet, Yun Xiao was nowhere to be seen. They could only wait.

    With nearly a thousand battles fought, the initial victors of the eight hells were emerging. The Cmity Seal Purgatory was in the lead, with the Undead Depths and the Rising Sun Inferno trailing close behind, the gap between them was within 20 victories. Along with the Primeval Demon Hell, these four were in a prime position to clinch the top spot.

    The Leviathan Ravine and the Endless Netherworld, however,gged too far behind, their chances of victory all but dashed. But, as always, the final oue would depend on how the Immortal Asylum orchestrated the apex battle.

    "What exactly are the rules of this apex battle?" the crowd murmured, their eyes collectively drawn to the imposing figures of Mo Jianzhi and the other three delegates from the Immortal Asylum on the high tform. The memory of their ruthless obliteration of Fu Liuli and the Sea Dragon Emperor was still vivid in their minds, casting a long shadow over the Nine Hells.

    At that moment, Mo Jianzhi stepped forward, his voice calm, yet carrying across the gathered crowd, "Since most have arrived, it''s time I dere the rules of the apex battle."

    At his words, a hush fell over the crowd, every ear straining to catch the decree that would dictate the terms of theirbata matter of grave importance given the fearsome authority of the Immortal Asylum. After all, with the Talisman Emperor himself holding his tongue even after personal loss, who dared question the Immortal Asylum''s edicts?

    Mo Jianzhi''s gaze swept over the assembly, his tone unchanged, "The apex battle will involve all fighters in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm or above. Those below may also join if they wish."

    This initial statement raised no eyebrows; it was what came next that sent murmurs rippling through the crowd.

    "This battle shall be known as The Convergence of the Eight Trigrams. All participants will enter the battlefield simultaneously, each bearing a token. The fray will span the four corners, limited to half an hour. When the time''s up, we''ll tally the Trigram count for each side. Just like in the Fate Ocean Battle Royale, aplete set of eight different tokens constitutes one Trigram."

    The revtion sparked an uproar. With over 200 top powerhouses in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm and above, each a force to be reckoned with in their own right, the Immortal Asylum was proposing to throw them all into a single, frenzied melee.

    "Such blunt and brutal rules are unprecedented..."

    "This Immortal Asylum is indeed peculiar."

    Despite the oddity, the precedent set by a disy of power meant no voices of dissent arose.

    "This means that despite the battlesting only half an hour, the ferocity and brutality could surpass that of the Fate Ocean Battle Royale!"

    "In such a short span, won''t it drive everyone to a frenzy? With so many contenders, won''t it be a mad scramble?"

    "Even those hells that fared poorly in the Fate Ocean Battle Royale could potentially turn the tables and emerge victorious..."

    As everyone pondered this new rule, a chill of apprehension ran down the spines of the contenders. The rules were indeed merciless.

    Yet amidst this, none forgot their primary objective within the Nine Hells Conquest shto eliminate Yun Xiao, the Exiled Sword Immortal.

    Within the crowd, the Wick Devil turned to the Talisman Emperor, his voice low, "As expected, the stakes have been raised."

    "By intensifying our internal strife, they''ve also presented us with the prime opportunity to eliminate Yun Xiao," the Talisman Emperor replied, his gaze coldly fixed on Mo Jianzhi.

    "Exactly!" The Wick Devil peered intently at the group of Sword Cultivators. "Once they and the merfolk enter the fray, it''ll be six against two?"

    "It''s more like 200 vs 40. That''s more than five times the number," the Talisman Emperor replied with a chill in his voice.

    "So, crude as these rules may be, they work in our favor... We could take out Yun Xiao first, then vie for supremacy fairly. If we can''t take him down, let''s hold off on the infighting," the Wick Devil suggested.

    "Are you fearing the Eternal Sword Prison might bow out again?" The Talisman Emperor nced disdainfully at the Sword Warden. "Lack of spine isn''t new for these Sword Cultivators."

    No sooner had he spoken these words than Mo Jianzhi, as if having overheard, dered in a decidedly frosty tone, "This battle mandates the participation of all eligible contenders! Those who forsake the fight will face the collective wrath of the eight hells!"

    At this, the faces of the Sword Cultivators and the merfolk turned as cold as ice.

    It was clear the message was meant for them.

    The other fighters of the other hells couldn''t help but burst intoughter, their delight unmistakable.

    "Is the Immortal Asylum sending the Sword Cultivators and merfolk to their doom?"

    "Should the Heaven Sanctuary Realm fighters from both sides perish, guess what happens?"

    "The Nine Hells might well be the Seven Hells!"

    The Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, sea dragons, and resentment demons alike all wore smug, cold smirks.

    "Who''d have thought the Immortal Asylum''s authority could actually be a boon?"

    "At least, there''s no escape for the cowards now."

    Jeers andughter spread across the arena.

    "Pray tell, Immortal Asylum," the Talisman Emperor suddenly raised his voice, asking formally, "You once said the oues of the Fate Ocean Battle Royale and the apex battle would contribute 60 and 40 percent, respectively. But with far fewer Heaven Sanctuary Realm participants than Fate Ocean Realm ones, and considering it''s all about the Trigram count, how many Trigrams can a mere 200 or so people make?"

    Among the eight hells, the merfolk had the fewest in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm or above, with only 21, including their Empress.

    That meant, only 21 Trigrams could be obtained in this apex battle at most.

    "A single Trigram in the apex battle will be worth 40 Trigrams overall," Mo Jianzhi exined withposure.

    "40 each?"

    "That means, if one hell were to secure all the tokens, just from the apex battle alone, they''d amass just over 800 Trigrams."

    "The current leader, the Cmity Seal Purgatory, has only around 200 Trigrams."

    The maximum Trigram count in the Fate Ocean Battle Royale also hinged on the number of participants from the Reverie Abyss. In theory, if a single hell were to win every battle, the highest achievable count would be 900 Trigrams.

    The first round had 900 Trigrams up for grabs, and the second round would have 800 Trigrams. That barely fit the 60-40 split, albeit with a bit of wiggle room.

    Still, that did affirm that the ceiling for the Fate Ocean Battle Royale was higher than the Convergence of the Eight Trigrams.

    "However, given the rules of the apex battle, the chances of hitting the upper limit are much greater than in the Fate Ocean Battle Royale!"

    With so many shing, anything could happen.

    "Does this mean the Sword Ruins, having forfeited earlier, still have a shot at the top?"

    "The likelihood of that..."

    People were inclined to say it was slim, but recalling the wildcard that was Yun Xiao and the numerous times their expectations were upended, they hesitated to make such ims.

    "The Immortal Asylum''s rules also seem to throw Yun Xiao a lifeline. I wonder if he''ll take the bait?"

    That was the burning question on everyone''s minds.

    Yun Xiao had already fought in the Fate Ocean Battle Royale. ording to the rules, his tokens had already been converted into Trigrams, and he could opt out.

    "Yun Xiao will definitely join!" someone asserted confidently.

    "Exactly, if he doesn''t, he''d have to watch as Mu Tianjian and the other 20 or so Overseers from the Sword Ruins get annihted!"

    "Now, this is getting exciting..." The Fate Ocean Realm participants were now the spectators of this unfolding drama.

    All their discussions were not lost on the likes of the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil.

    "Did the Immortal Asylum just do us a massive favor? Are they also wary of Yun Xiao''s rise?" The Wick Devil''s eyes zed with intensity.

    "It''s hard to say..." The Talisman Emperor''s expression was icy. "Regardless, the opportunity is in our hands. This battle is a must, and there''s no room for underestimating the enemy! Each of the six hells must prepare thoroughly, using the most ruthless methods to annihte the Sword Cultivators and the merfolk!"

    "So, before we go into battle, our six-hell alliance must be solid, with no dissent... The Rising Sun Inferno has no issues," the Wick Devil assured.

    After two failed assassination attempts, there was no turning back in his feud with Yun Xiao.

    "The sea dragons and the resentment demons are also solid allies. As for the remaining two hells..." The Talisman Emperor''s gaze swept towards thend demons and Yin Devils.

    "The Phoenix Empress is not a problem, especially now that she has Moon Fairy by her side, though she might be preupied with future considerations... But as long as we give her assurances, she has no choice but to cooperate. The Yin Devils, though, heh..." The Wick Devil''s face twisted into a grimace.

    "The Yin Devils are not to be trusted. We don''t fear their inaction as much as the possibility of them causing chaos at the critical moment. They''re nothing but trouble," the Talisman Emperor said.

    "Then, before we head into battle, we''ll need to find leverage on the Netherworld Emperor to keep him in line!" the Wick Devil suggested.

    Their strategy for the next move was shaped by the rules of the apex battle.

    With the betrayal of the merfolk as a precedent, their trust in the Yin Devils was thin, given the deep-seated enmity between the Yin and Yang Devils, despite thetter''s minimal grievances with the Sword Cultivators.

    In contrast, the enmity between thend demons and the Sword Cultivators was as profound as that between the Yin and Yang Devils.

    The Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil shared a nce, both thinking the same thing.

    "The War Princess?"

    Their thoughts aligned. Securing the War Princess before the battle would be akin to holding the lifeblood of all Yin Devils.

    "Subduing this little devil would mean subduing all the female Yin Devils, rendering the males of their kind irrelevant," the Wick Devil said with a venomous gleam in his eye.

    The Talisman Emperor eyed the Eternal Sword Prison''snds, using Yun Xiao as a pretext for his ambitions.

    The resentment demons and the sea dragons coveted the territories of the Reverie Abyss, even considering subjugating thend demons!

    And the only desire of the Rising Sun Inferno was to absorb the Endless Netherworld, uniting the devil race under their rule, dominating the males, and enving the female Yin Devils.

    And so, in the uing pinnacle battle, there was no room for error.

    "Leave it to me." With a sinisterugh, the Wick Devil hurried off to make arrangements.

 Chapter 352: You Call Yourselves Devils?

    Chapter 352: You Call Yourselves Devils?

    "After 10 days, I''ve reached the Perfect Fate Ocean Realm," Yun Xiao muttered. He could sense the vast primordial power coursing through his meridians, his eyes sparkling with divine light.

    "After entering the Dao Heart Realm, cultivating takes a tad bit more effort. Just relying on the Heavenly Dao Sariras isn''t enough," Yun Xiao mused.

    In the past, crossing a major realm never took this long!

    "A little bit more time, and I''ll probably break through again," Yun Xiao estimated to himself. Sadly, time was tight with the apex battle imminent, leaving him in a not ideal situation.

    However, Yun Xiao wasn''t the type to fret over such details. ncing back, he saw Pale Revenant perched on the roof, swinging her pale feet back and forth, ever-vignt like a devoted handmaiden.

    She heeded hismands without a hint of hesitation, a stark contrast to the constantly bickering War Princess, proving a more fittingpanion.

    "Immortal Yun," Pale Revenant called out softly, ready at his side.

    "Mhm. Let''s go," Yun Xiao said, descending from the rooftop.

    She followed along behind him, her steps light and airy, mirroring a gentle sea breeze.

    In the alley below, two figures awaited their arrival. One, adorned in gold robes with white brows and long hair, was none other than the Sword Warden. Beside him stood a mermaid with tri-colored tail fins. In spite of being the same age as Mu Dalong, she exuded the tender charm of youth, a true beauty of the seas.

    "Sword Warden, and this must be the Siren Empress," Yun Xiao greeted, receiving a modest bow from the mermaid, her eyes barely meeting his, overawed by the presence of a reincarnated Immortal.

    The sight of the formidable Pale Revenant, standing like a handmaiden beside Yun Xiao, eased her nerves significantly.

    "Are you here concerning the rules of the apex battle?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes." The Siren Empress, not daring to deceive, nodded truthfully.

    "Choose me as your champion, and defeat won''t be in your future," Yun Xiao assured, then soared into the night towards the battleground, his confidence leaving asting impression.

    The Siren Empress, now relieved, watched his fading silhouette in the night sky, convinced of a forting upheaval in the Nine Hells.

    "Big changes areing to the Nine Hells." The Sword Warden remarked with a faint smile. Then, he turned to the Siren Empress and said, "You children of the sea, always swimming towards the light, never seem to err."

    In the Eight Trigrams arena, only two battles remained in the Fate Ocean Battle Royale. That was to say, there were only 30 minutes before the apex battle!

    "Follow me, we''re paying a visit to those Yin Devils," the Wick Devil announced to his eight fiercestrades, the cream of the Rising Sun Inferno''s crop, three of whom shared his blood.

    "Why bother with them?" one asked, his head as bare as a desert and just as craggy, his arms long and hands sorge they could probably ensnare a sphere half a foot in diameter with ease.

    With a sly grin, the Wick Devil whispered a plot so cunning that it drew smirks from his audience.

    "Those traitorous merfolk dared to turn against us, and these Yin Devils, knowing full well we mighte for them, might just stab us in the back at the worst possible moment." The bald Yang Devil chuckled.

    "Such betrayal cannot happen during the apex battle. So, we need absolute certainty."

    "We''ll snatch that little devil girl before the fight, holding her as our leverage. Those Yin Devils will have no choice but to fight tooth and nail for us."

    The group, each more menacing than thest, agreed on the n, preemptively condemning the Yin Devils for a betrayal they hadn''tmitted yet. The Wick Devil''s n had earned their approval and admiration.

    "Third Uncle." The Wick Devil turned to the bald Yang Devil. "You''re the strongest here, after me. Your methods are unparalleled. When I strike at the Netherworld Emperor, you must capture the War Princess."

    "No problem," the bald Yang Devil''s eyes flickered with a ghostly me. "Any solid intel on this youngdy''s strength?"

    "She''s a force to be reckoned with, rumored to have reached the Heaven Sanctuary Realm despite her youth... Hence, your involvement," Wick Devil replied, his voice thick with anticipation.

    "A Heaven Sanctuary Realm prodigy not yet eighteen..." the bald Yang Devil rasped, "Now that''s a rare gem. If we don''t act now, we might never get another chance."

    "It''s not just about getting a chance," the Wick Devil gritted his teeth, "She could lead the Yin Devils to obliterate our Rising Sun Inferno."

    He knew the stakes. Once Yun Xiao was gone, the War Princess had to be neutralized; there was no room for negotiation.

    "And after we''ve used her, do we kill her?" the bald Yang Devil asked.

    The Wick Devil''s expression twisted into a peculiar smile. "Third Uncle, to waste such a fine blood furnace would be a pity. You said it yourself, she''s a rare gem. We should exploit her innate talents to sire more of our kind with Nine-Tiered Bloodlines."

    The bald Yang Devil chuckled with a mischievous glint in his eye. "Well, looks like we''re in for a treat."

    The other Yang Devils joined in with their own sinisterughter, their appetites whetted even for the elusive Yin Devils they seldom got a chance to meddle with. Usually, they had to make do with themon folk to satisfy their cravings, as the core lineage of the Yin Devil royalty was well-guarded.

    "Critical moment''s all yours, Third Uncle," the Wick Devil said with a grave tone to the bald Yang Devil.

    "Worry not, these hands of mine are experts in nabbing women! Especially those Yin Devildies, I never miss!" The bald Yang Devil cackled with delight.

    "Third Uncle, the infamous Yin Devil yer!"

    "I''ve heard through the grapevine, you''ve got over 800 delicate Yin Devil beauties in your pce, too busy to attend to them all?"

    The joking went on among the Yang Devils, while the bald one shook his head. "Even 3,000 wouldn''tpare to the War Princess... The real delicacy is reserved for my nephew here."

    Everyone envied the Wick Devil, yet knew such a prize was beyond their grasp.

    "Let''s move," the Wick Devilmanded, and the atmosphere tensed as the apex battle approached. The Eight Trigrams arena was abuzz, with no real guard up among the six hells, everyone closely mingled.

    The Talisman Emperor was rallying his troops, doling out assignments for the imminent sh, with the Netherworld Emperor and the War Princess among the listeners. Amidst this chaotic mix, nobody anticipated a preemptive strike, all eyes on the forting battle.

    The Wick Devil and his entourage were stealthily making their way towards the Netherworld Emperor, exchanging a knowing nce with the Talisman Emperor, who then shifted his focus to assigning tasks for the Endless Netherworld.

    The Talisman Emperor was leading the charge against Yun Xiao. So, there were no objections from the Netherworld Emperor.

    In the crowd, the War Princess stood outtall, formidable, and utterly captivating. Her training in the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity had only enhanced her allure, making every inch of her a masterpiece of temptation, her beauty transcending species and captivating allhuman, devil, or demon.

    Even the seasoned bald Yang Devil couldn''t help but stare, thirst evident in his eyes, "By the gods, I''d trade a decade of my life for just one night with her."

    In his lifelong conquests across thends of affection, the bald Yang Devil had neverid eyes on a gem quite like this. "The real kicker," he mused, "is that this fine vintage is yet unopened!"

    Hot-blooded and green with envy, he was a storm of emotions. Fate had dealt him the hand to y a pivotal role today, yet the prize at the end wouldn''t be his to savor. To see, to touch, but not to tastea tragedy of epic proportions.

    Were he not feeling the weight of his years, he might''ve even entertained the notion of overthrowing the Wick Devil in a bid for power.

    In a blink, the Yang Devils were upon the Netherworld Emperor, their approach masked as a mere shuffle through the crowd towards the Talisman Emperor, arousing no suspicion.

    But the Netherworld Emperor and the War Princess were not alone; they were nked by a cadre of Yin Devils in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm.

    "They''re here," Second Uncle whispered to the Netherworld Emperor, who cast a chilly nce at the Wick Devil, all too familiar with his loathsome smirk.

    Yet, this encounter was unlike any before. In the fleeting moment of his approach, the Wick Devil unleashed the formidable Dragon Wick Seal straight at the Netherworld Emperor!

    <em>BOOM!</em> The sudden assault took everyone by surprise.

    "Protect the princess!" the Netherworld Emperor immediately ordered, highlighting his protective instincts for his daughter. As he spoke, he positioned himself before the Wick Devil, conjuring a-like magic treasure to fend off the relentless Dragon Wick Seal.

    The sh between Yin and Yang was instantaneous!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Following the Wick Devil''s lead, his eight Yang Devil aplices jumped into action, bypassing the Netherworld Emperor to target the other Yin Devils.

    "Scatter!" The onlookers from the various hells dispersed, their minds a whirlwind of shock and confusion.

    Here the Talisman Emperor was, preaching unity among the six hells, and yet, the Yang and Yin Devils erupted into conflict amidst the chaos, with explosions reverberating all around!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The arena erupted as Yang Devil powerhouses lunged into the fray, forcing the War Princess'' uncles into a tough standoff, parrying the relentless onught.

    The Yang Devils, crafty in their strategy, had calcted the odds, ensuring they had the numbers to overwhelm.

    In that critical moment, two extra Yang Devils jumped forward, targeting the War Princess herself, with the notorious bald Yang Devil leading the charge, his face twisted in a vicious grin.

    "It''s him!" The cry went up, recognizing the infamous old Yang Devil, a name cursed in the Endless Netherworld for his audacious raids and abductions.

    The real intent of the Yang Devilsy bare; the Warrior Princess was their prize!

    "Will the Immortal Asylum intervene?" No one could say for sure. But under the sudden savage attack of the Yang Devils, the unprepared Yin Devils were quickly faltering.

    The War Princess was now squarely in the sights of the bald Yang Devil.

    "Littledy, you won''t escape my grasp!" As the bald Yang Devil lunged forward with his massive hands, one aimed at her face and the other reaching forward at her chest, the War Princess could only scoff at his lecherous gaze, knowing full well his vile intentions.

    Unshaken, the War Princess summoned the Weeping Netherblood whip in her hand, which burst forth like a blood beam, striking with lethal precision when the bald Yang Devil least expected it, changing direction mid-air tond a vicious blow across his face.

    <em>CRACK! </em>Blood sprayed as his nose and an eye burst open, his face a mask of blood. "Ahh!" He fell to his knees, screaming in agony, his underestimation of the War Princess costing him dearly in a moment of careless aggression.

    "What Yang Devil? Nothing but a lecherous old brute!" the War Princess dered, her voice icy as she brandished her Weeping Netherblood whip, wreathed in nefarious crimson.

    With a roar like a dragon unleashed, the whipshed out, puncturing the bald Yang Devil''s belly with a grotesque squelch, his misdeeds against the Yin Devil women avenged in a gruesome spectacle.

    His howl of agony was cut short as he crumpled to the ground, his face a ghastly shade of purple.

    "To hell with you, you fool!" The War Princess, recalling his infamous reputation, seethed with rage.

    With rapid strikes, the whip turned the once formidable figure of the Rising Sun Inferno''s second inmand into nothing more than a mound of flesh, his screams echoing across the Eight Trigrams arena.

    With a flick of her whip, the War Princess dusted off her hands nonchntly, her gaze sweeping across the stunned onlookers. "What are you staring at? Haven''t you seen a beauty before?" she quipped, a triumphant grin spreading across her face.

    "Damn, so this is what it feels like to show off," she mused, her prowess and pride etching asting impression on the hearts of all present.

    As eyes turned towards the Wick Devil and his cohorts, who were busy forcing the Netherworld Emperor back, reveling in his moment of triumph until a tidal wave of shock from the crowd made him pause and turn, only to find his uncle vanquished.

    Faced with the War Princess, who looked upon him with disdain, she questioned, "You call yourselves devils, you unevolved beasts?"

    Such audacity was unheard of among the Yin Devils, leaving the Wick Devil momentarily halted, his fury swirling in his eyes yet overshadowed by a flicker of fear; the terrifying potential of this young Yin Devil had momentarily bested him.

    Murmurs rose among the crowd, amon thread among their whispers, "This War Princess, she rivals Exile Yun in her might..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 353: Disaster Brewing

    Chapter 353: Disaster Brewing

    With the bald Yang Devil''s demise, the Rising Sun Inferno''s ambush turned into an utter farce, no doubt about it. They had no choice but to cease their attack, lest they embarrass themselves further.

    The Wick Devil couldn''t fathom that the cause of his failure was the very Blood Oath Curse he had concocted. His burning gaze was fixed on the War Princess!

    The few Yang Devils who had just attacked wisely retreated to his side.

    Atop the high tform, even the Talisman Emperor''s face showed a change, his brows frosted over with an added chill.

    From this moment, the War Princess gave him that same eerie vibe that Yun Xiao did!

    Tens of thousands of the Nine Hells'' mightiest felt it!

    Their gazes were deep and stormy as they looked upon the proud Yin Devil maiden, their hearts roiling with silent tumult.

    "Brother," the Wick Devil broke the silence, acting as if nothing had happened, and bowed to the Netherworld Emperor, "Your daughter''s talent surpasses all ancestors of our devil kind in the Nine Hells. She is a once-in-an-epoch genius. Congrattions."

    His words were coated with a smile, but the envy, jealousy, and hatred were palpable on the twisted faces of the other 2,000 Yang Devils. Mostly, they felt hatred.

    Seeing the bald Yang Devil''s mangled corpse only fueled their hatred.

    A great many of them even wanted to pounce and annihte the Yin Devils!

    "Congrattions?" The War Princess nced disdainfully at the Wick Devil. "You, the ruler of the Rising Sun Inferno, openly lead your n''s warriors to attack me, bullying the weak with your strength, and you think a simple congrattions can cover it all?"

    The Wick Devil thought offering an out would make the Netherworld Emperor take the hint, but the War Princess spoke up first.

    And the Netherworld Emperor, standing by his daughter, clearly sided with the War Princess.

    The Wick Devil couldn''t help but sneer, "And what would you have us do? Let your Endless Netherworld betray us just like the merfolk and grovel at the feet of the Sword Cultivators?"

    When these words were spoken, a ripple of shock passed through the onlookers, their eyes shifting coldly towards the Yin Devils.

    In the full re of the crowd, the War Princess let out a derisive snort, her words icy, "You''re truly repulsive, initiating an attack on your allies and sowing discord, then having the gall to use us? Seems like you''re the ones groveling before the Sword Cultivators, sabotaging things before the apex battle even begins!"

    The crowd''s gaze turned back to the Wick Devil, now tinged with disapproval.

    The fact that the Rising Sun Inferno''s sneak attack had backfired was undeniable!

    The War Princess''s retort left the Wick Devil at a loss for words.

    "Talisman Emperor, as the Nine Hells Conqueror, it was you who unified our six hells! Now, with the Rising Sun Inferno causing chaos and dampening spirits before the apex battle, how shall we deal with this?" the War Princess pressed, her gaze piercing towards the Talisman Emperor on the tform.

    Upon reflection, it was clear to all what the Wick Devil had intendedeliminate Yun Xiao and control the War Princess, ensuring his own survival by eradicating the other talents. A n that had spectacrly failed, leaving him to face public humiliation. How would the Talisman Emperor respond?

    The colorful-haired man furrowed his brows, his voice grave, "The Wick Devil''s actions were indeed foolish. Thankfully, the War Princess was unharmed, avoiding a greater loss... With the apex battle looming, the Nine Hells rely on thebined strength of our two devil ns to vanquish the true enemy. I urge both ns to prioritize the greater good, setting aside any disputes until after the battle!"

    After speaking, the Talisman Emperor turned specifically to the Wick Devil, "For the sake of the greater good, apologize to the War Princess."

    His words surprised no one; the Wick Devil was his staunch ally, unlikely to be reprimanded severely.

    Besides, even if he wanted to, punishment was not really an option.

    The Wick Devil, adaptable as ever, suppressed his fury and addressed the War Princess with a cold restraint, "My earlier actions were thoughtless, my apologies. Let''s not dwell on this, focusing instead on what truly matters."

    Before the Yin Devils could even think of forgiveness, the Talisman Emperor was already speaking up for them, his words dripping with an implicit threat.

    To have forced the Wick Devil to a humbling apology was nothing short of historic!

    The Yang Devils clenched their fists, veins bulging, a storm of rage brewing within.

    "Worthless lot." The War Princess didn''t pursue further, but her scornful, icy rebuke sent the 2,000 Yang Devils seething, their blood boiling to the brink of explosion!

    The Wick Devil gestured for calm, and they barely managed to hold back the urge to charge.

    It could have easily turned into a bloodbath.

    For millennia, in the wars between the Yin and Yang Devils, thetter almost always held the upper hand. Never had they been subjected to such humiliation by a woman, who were, in their eyes, spoils of war, ves, trophies to be paraded.

    The chests of the Yang Devils heaved like volcanoes, their skin and armor turning a blood-red hue!

    "The enmity between Yin and Yang Devils isn''t new; we''ve all grown ustomed to it," an Inscription Cultivator remarked nonchntly.

    "Indeed! Once that fiend Yun Xiao is dealt with, there''ll be time to settle any disputes..." muttered some aggrieved resentment demons and sea dragons, exchanging frosty nces.

    "And that Moon Fairy, it''d be best if he perished along with the rest!"

    In the six hells, eyes glowed dark red, each harboring their own schemes.

    "At least for now, our hearts are united in the fight against Yun Xiao, right?"

    "Not necessarily. We must be wary of the Yin Devils. With the Yang Devil''s murderous intentid bare and the Talisman Emperor clearly siding with the Yang Devils, the Yin Devils will likely look for a way out."

    This palpable tension, evident even to theyman, was crystal clear.

    And so, an eerie silence fell over the gathering.

    In no time at all, Mo Jianzhi, Shen Xiaochan, Kun Jiang, and the Dream Demon stepped forward, their voices uniting to dere, "The apex battle begins now."

    As their words fell, the Immortal Asylum trembled mightily, as if the very heavens and earth were cracking apart.

    <em>ROAR! </em>A deafening roar erupted, as if right beside everyone, vibrating ears and rendering the crowd momentarily deaf.

    "The Nian seems even more ferocious," Moon Fairy whispered to the Phoenix Empress.

    "Yes..." the Phoenix Empress replied, her demon instincts particrly attuned to the monstrous bellow.

    "Are you ready?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "Don''t worry, all is in ce," the Phoenix Empress assured, her gaze deep, her expression tense. She pinched Moon Fairy''s cheek, biting her lip, "You better be reliable. I won''t have my reputation ruined by a pretty face!"

    Moon Fairy offered a slight smile, a hint of murderous intent blossoming in his eyes.

    Deep within the Immortal Asylum

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>The Old Immortal continued his monotonous hammering on the bench. But, the bench bore no more flesh and blood.

    Just then, a ground-shaking roar burst forth from a crack behind him, his clothes billowing in the tumult.

    "The time is ripe," he murmured, tears streaming down his face.

    His hands trembling, he ced them on the ground, assuming a beast-like stance on all fours, his long, withered hair brushing the floor.

    "Off we go!" He cried out strangely, moving on all fours like a wild beast towards the end of the corridor. No sooner had he crawled away than the crack behind him boomed, the dim yellow eyes vanishing, reced by a swarm of hunched old men.

    They bore the Old Immortal''s likeness, simrly positioned on hands and feet, scuttling out from the crack like animals.

    "Heh heh heh..." A procession of decrepit old men, crawling on hands and feet, filled the passageway, a sight most eerie.

    "Eat! Eat! Eat!" They chanted this single word, a chorus of Old Immortals.

    Some of them ran so fast their eyeballs popped out, dangling by mere threads of veins still attached to the sockets.

    They scrambled to stuff the eyeballs back into ce, then continued their mad dash on all fours.

    "What''s that noise..." At the Eight Trigrams arena, Yun Xiao, surrounded by the crowd, turned his head, peering into the dark recesses of the Radiance Pce.

    The ground there trembled, stones and sand vibrating, yet it seemed devoid of anything substantial.

    Just then, Mo Jianzhi dered, "Eight Trigrams Convergence Array, activate!"

    With a series of thunderous roars, the terrifying Eight Trigrams formation sprang to life once more, enclosing groups from all eight directions within its bounds.

    Yun Xiao and a host of Heaven Sanctuary Realm and above Sword Cultivators stood at the Radiance position.

    Each of the eight array positions was upied by the peak powerhouses from the various hells of the Nine Hells, almost 250 in total.

    "Expand!" At Mo Jianzhi''smand, the formation began to swell, forcing those at the Fate Ocean Realm to retreat further and further to the edges.

    Soon, the entire formation had expanded over fivefold!

    This meant that the Convergence of the Eight Trigrams would be fought on a vast enough stage to allow these 250 or so top powerhouses to unleash their full potential!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the formation solidified, the 10,000 Fate Ocean Realm cultivators outside grew even more anxious.

    Figures like Mu Daxiong, Du Zhongyuan, and their fellow Sword Cultivators and merfolk huddled in corners, vignt against surprise attacks while tensely watching the battle unfold.

    Their focus was on one thing alone, the one who entered the apex without a token, Yun Xiao!

    "He''s really joined the battle!"

    This news was enough to send the assassins from the six hells into a frenzy.

    "It''s said he has a life-saving coffin that withstood attacks from the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil. Now, with half an hour at his disposal, it''s more than enough time to open the coffin and strike!"

    "If he dares to hide in his coffin, he''ll just have to watch as all his supporters perish right before his eyes. Without these folks, the Sword Ruins and Reverie Abyss won''t stand a chance. If he doesn''t die, all our efforts will be meaningless!"

    "The world simply won''t stand for a youngster to climb atop everyone''s heads on talent alone, expecting all to willingly bow down!"

    "The kid''s too naive, too full of himself. This half hour will be his tuition fee for learning the harsh ways of arrogance!"

    The Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, resentment demons, and sea dragons... all together, their faces aze with a torrent of murderous intent.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As their defiant fury swept through, the walls within the Eight Trigrams formation finally sank away, sealing the arena into a closed whole.

    And there, before Yun Xiao, all his adversaries materialized!

    At the Force position were 40 Inscription Cultivator elders!

    At the Field position were over top 40 Yang Devils!

    At the Ground position stood over 40 resentment demons led by Wraith Eye.

    At the Shake position were over 30nd demons under the Phoenix Empress!

    Plus, around 40 Yin Devils and sea dragons.

    Together, thesebatants from six hells, almost 200 strong, faced off against the Sword Ruins and the Reverie Abyss, who numbered just over 40, merely matching the Inscription Cultivators alone.

    The disparity was stark.

    If not for their fervent belief in Yun Xiao, those from the Sword Ruins and Reverie Abyss wouldn''t dare step onto this battlefield.

    To anyone''s eyes, even with a powerhouse like Pale Revenant at Yun Xiao''s side, this battle seemed destined to be a massacre!

    Figures like the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil were already bleeding internally with urgency.

    The moment the formation''s walls lifted, the Talisman Emperor, Wick Devil, Wraith Eye, Ao Yuan, and others shouted almost in unison. "Kill him!"

    No nonsense, no dragging their feet! They were mad for Yun Xiao''s immediate demise! Every moment he lived was a moment of unease in their hearts.

 Chapter 354: Im not satisfied yet. Whos next?

    Chapter 354: I''m not satisfied yet. Who''s next?

    <em>BOOM! </em>Almost 200 powerhouses in the Heaven Sanctuary Realmunched their attacks almost in unison! Some wielded Life Sigil magic treasures, others unleashed blood arts, while a group of demons morphed into their true forms, charging forth with their demon magic and physical might...

    For the average person, witnessing any one of these beings in action would be a stroke of immense luck in a lifetime.

    The uproar began in the Immortal Asylum, even overshadowing the tremors caused by the Nian.

    But just as the battle began, an earth-shattering surprise erupted, halting the grand assault of the six hell realms in its tracks!

    That was whenfifty-some powerhouses, including the Yin Devils and thend demons, led by the Netherworld Emperor and Phoenix Empress, didn''t hesitate for a second before turning their des towards the Yang Devils and the resentment demons!

    The situation exploded at the slightest touch!

    This sudden turn of events drastically changed the initial ughter.

    Truth be told, many had anticipated the Yin Devils'' betrayal, but no one expected them to sh with the Yang Devils right from the get-go, with such resolve!

    The decisive betrayal by thend demons led by the Phoenix Empress was even more unexpected!

    Everyone thought that the Sword Cultivators and thend demons shared a deep-seated enmity. How could thesend demons so resolutely fight for their sworn enemies?

    "Phoenix Empress?!" The Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil, charging forward, were met with this infuriating scene.

    The Phoenix Empress paid them no heed, transforming into a zing Azure Phoenix and thundering into the fray. Wherever she passed, the deep-sea resentment demons were instantly incinerated!

    The destructive power of a demon in the Genesis Spirit Realm shook the entire battlefield.

    "This wretched beast must die!" The Wick Devil knew he had to intervene, or no one could stop the Phoenix Empress. He shouted to the Talisman Emperor, "Yun Xiao is yours!"

    After saying this, he shot through the battlefield like aet, his Dragon Wick Seal targeting the Phoenix Empress.

    "Leaving it to me?" The Talisman Emperor frowned deeply.

    In that moment, he spun around, only to face a barefoot girl with pale skin standing before him!

    Clutching the corpses of two Inscription Cultivators, her arms opened wide like a gaping maw, devouring the two bodies whole!

    "Short-sighted fools, not worth the air they breathed." In a whisper light as a feather, Pale Revenant uttered a few words that sent a chill skittering down the Talisman Emperor''s spine.

    "You turned your back on the Undead Depths, choosing a path of no return. The one deserving death is you!"

    With fury, the Talisman Emperor summoned his Sovereign Sigil, intent on bypassing Pale Revenant to eliminate Yun Xiao. But the moment he moved, the girl appeared before him like a ghost, her seemingly delicate arms and small fists smashing towards him with sudden ferocity.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A thunderous explosion shattered the Sovereign Sigil, sending shockwaves that hurled the Talisman Emperor several hundred meters back, crashing at the edge of the stage, his vitality in turmoil.

    "You''ve grown stronger? You don''t seem much like a demon anymore!" Shocked, the Talisman Emperor looked up to see the pale girl taking a single step, yet again appearing before him. She looked frail, almost sickly, but her brute force was akin to a colossal beast.

    How many sharks and whales had she devoured to gain such strength?

    Pale Revenant didn''t respond, continuing her silent onught, deepening the Talisman Emperor''s frown.

    He and the Wick Devil were both being held at bay!

    "To all, focus on ying Yun Xiao! Whoever ims his head shall be rewarded with the Myriad Sigil Sword!"

    The Myriad Sigil Sword, second only to the Cmity Seal Sword within the Cmity Seal Purgatory, was a treasure coveted by many, capable of stirring fervent desires.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The battlefield was aze with excitement among humans, demons, and devils.

    What was meant to be a battle skewed in numbers had turned into a chaotic melee.

    Sword Cultivators shing with Inscription Cultivators,nd demons against resentment demons, Yang Devils fighting Yin Devils, sea dragons battling merfolk!

    It was no longer a six-on-two fight but a bnced four-on-four skirmish.

    However, it was evident that the Talisman Emperor''s side had a numerical advantage with around 150batants, while Yun Xiao had managed to gather a force nearly two-thirds their size, close to 100 strong.

    But what truly stunned the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil was the disparity in Genesis Spirit powerhouses. On their side, only the two of them stood as the prime forces.

    The resentment demon Wraith Eye had seen a decline in power, counting as only a half-step Genesis Spirit Realm being, while Ao Yuan from the Leviathan Ravine was merely in the Establishment Heaven Sanctuary Realm.

    On the contrary, Yun Xiao''s side boasted the Phoenix Empress, Pale Revenant, the Sword Warden, Siren Empress, and the Netherworld Emperorfive formidable Genesis Spirit Realmbatants, along with the War Princess, a peerless female devil wreaking havoc.

    This advantage in Genesis Spirit Realm powerhouses quickly neutralized the Talisman Emperor''s numerical superiority.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The sh turned into a fierce battle, far from the one-sided ughter it was meant to be.

    For instance, the Sword Cultivators, outnumbered by a handful, saw the Sword Warden single-handedly holding off a siege from over a dozen fighters in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm.

    The Netherworld Emperor and the Siren Empress found themselves in simr straits!

    "The Blood Oath Curse has weakened their strength, strike now!"

    This dire news echoed across the battlefield, sending shivers down the spines of all Inscription Cultivators, resentment demons, Yang Devils, and sea dragons present.

    Losing merely a tenth of one''s blood essence might not seem like much, but in the heat of battle, the difference was stark!

    Take the Yang Devils, for instance. With their superior numbers, they found themselves unable to overpower the Yin Devils led by the Netherworld Emperor!

    Yang Devils, who often mocked the Yin Devils as the weaker kin, were given a rude awakening as these determined and ruthless fighters struck back hard! Especially the Netherworld Emperor! Wherever he went, the ground was soaked with the blood of Yang Devils!

    These developments not only soured the expressions of the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil but also twisted the faces of the spectators from those four hells.

    "Primeval Demon Hell, Endless Netherworld, you wretches!"

    Fortunately, it was limited to curses aimed at thend demons and Yin Devils, not daring to start a fight in the spectator stands.

    Thend demon and Yin Devil spectators in the Fate Ocean Realm were momentarily stunned, especially thend demons, clueless about the Phoenix Empress''s intentions...

    "Just you wait! Our alliance still outnumbers you. Once this Yun Xiao falls, you''re all done for!"

    "You four hells will pay a heavy price!"

    The frenzied cries filled the Immortal Asylum, as jarring as the sh of forces within the Eight Trigrams formation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Following the Talisman Emperor''s deration, many Yang Devils, Inscription Cultivators, sea dragons, and resentment demons broke away from the fray, converging on Yun Xiao in a bid to capture the king, nearly 20 Heaven Sanctuary Realm forces closing in for the kill.

    With Yun Xiao''s protectors engaged elsewhere, he was left vulnerable.

    "Danger!" Mu Daxiong and others shouted from the sidelines, fraught with tension.

    Conversely, the Overseers from the Sword Ruins, initially anxious, saw the tide turn with thend demons'' betrayal and were emboldened. They plunged into battle with reckless abandon!

    As for Yun Xiao''s safety, they left it to fate, seeing that the Wick Devil and the Talisman Emperor, the most formidable threats, were already engaged.

    "Yun Xiao, you fiend! Without you, the Nine Hells would have known peace for eons. How many innocents must die because of you?"

    A female Yang Devil confronted Yun Xiao, her figure slightly slimmer than the Wick Devil''s but no less imposing, her face marred by brutality, with a scorpion-like tail and her body wreathed in mes.

    Yun Xiao recognized her; she was the Sun Princess of the Rising Sun Inferno, the Wick Devil''s sister, wielding considerable power.

    "Sun Princess, let''s join forces to eliminate him!" Two veteran Inscription Cultivators appeared on another front, their ages not far off from the Sword Warden, both long-standing figures of the Cmity Seal Purgatory.

    One was the Punishment Elder, Fu Gui, and the other was the Inheritance Elder, Fu Shanbrother and uncle to the Talisman Emperor respectively, their status in the Cmity Seal Purgatory rivaling that of the most revered.

    Alongside these three, twenty-five Heaven Sanctuary Realm fighters had encircled Yun Xiao, with more rushing towards the fray, unstoppable.

    Against the ruthless onught of these 28 beings, Yun Xiao''s cool demeanor stood out, as if a gentle breeze amidst a storm.

    With an elegant poise, despite being surrounded, he strolled leisurely, as if in a realm of his own.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul was unleashed, transforming into a six-foot Sovereign Sword beneath his feet. He gracefully stepped onto the sword, tip-toeing as it soared swiftly.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A barrage of magic treasures, daoist spells, and demon magic targeted him in the first wave, the surrounding world cloaked in savage holy energy.

    Following this bombardment were the close-quarters assaults of the demons and devils.

    Yun Xiao, without sparing a nce, maneuvered his Sovereign Sword, his figure shifting thousands of times, darting across the battlefield.

    <em>Sovereign Sword Technique: Myriad Swords Traversing the Ocean!</em>

    This ssic technique from the Sword Ruins, originating from the Ancestral Sword Tomb and passed down by the ancient Sword Warden, You Qingtian, involved the sword casting illusions as if myriad swords were roaming the vast seas, embodying freedom and elegance.

    Such a pinnacle of swordsmanship made Yun Xiao seem not on the battlefield but rather gliding above the azure skies and vast oceans, reveling in the gentle breezes and bright moonlight.

    His effortless grace stunned the Fate Ocean Realm onlookers.

    While others were embroiled in life-or-death battles, he seemed to be leisurely vacationing.

    However, before anyone could fully grasp the scene, Yun Xiao''s eyes suddenly turned deadly serious.

    At his brow, the fierce Prison Warden Sigil transformed into a dragon pattern, spreading across his body, turning his aura ferociously dominant, akin to a human dragon.

    This was one of the Prison Warden Sigil''s formsDao Dragon!

    With the Sovereign Sword in motion and the Dao Dragon''s power, grace merged with ferocity, his movements nimble yet his strikes fierce.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In an instant, he appeared above the head of the Sun Princess, touching down with a finger. The nine-headed dao dragon on him shimmered, unleashing a crimson st before her!

    "Die!" The Sun Princess roared, surging upwards with a warhammer treasure in hand, aiming straight for Yun Xiao''s face.

    With a roar, Yun Xiao''s blood art transformed, following the warhammer''s path straight into the Sun Princess''s not-so-delicate body. Just as she was about to sneer in triumph, her expression horrifically shifted.

    Suddenly, countless violet dragons erupted on her, igniting into crimson mes!

    "zing Dragon Blood Boil! How could you possibly..." This was a yin blood art from the Endless Netherworld, notoriouslyplex. The Yang Devils once stole a fragment of this magic but were clueless about it.

    Never in their wildest dreams did the Yang Devils imagine that this Aurum grade blood art could be mastered by someone ofter generations, let alone by a human!

    Not just the Yang Devils, but even the Yin Devils were dumbstruck, casting bewildered nces towards the War Princess, who shook her head as if saying, "He learned it on his own, I''ve got nothing to do with this."

    The War Princess looked over just in time to see Yun Xiao soaring past on his Sovereign Sword, the Sun Princess screaming as she was incinerated into a blood-fire dragon that exploded mid-air, also hitting other attackers!

    "Yun Xiao is formidable!" Those in the thick of battle, who kept an eye on Yun Xiao, were invigorated by his terrifying disy.

    "Yun Xiao!"

    A wave of frenzied roars swept through the Immortal Asylum!

    Amidst the madness, Yun Xiao embarked on a solo ughter spree. After killing the Sun Princess, he ceased using the Sovereign Sword, and the Prison Warden Sigil in his hand transformed into an umbre!

    From that moment, the young man in white wielded an azure sword in one hand and a violet oil-paper umbre in the other, traversing the battlefield like moving through rain, the umbre deflecting deadly blows, the sword extinguishing foes.

    Azure light shimmered; violet light flowed!

    Wherever the young man went, blood rained down, yet beneath the violet umbre, his divine looks were untouched, his white garments unsullied.

    His sword danced like a dragon; the umbre spun like a dream!

    "Damn, that''s cool..." The War Princess'' eyes reddened with envy. She couldn''t fathom how someone could turn a deadly battle into such a spectacle.

    While others fought fiercely for their lives, Yun Xiao seemed to be on a leisurely stroll, faces grim with ferocity while he bore a light smile, his sword piercing throats with ease.

    <em>Azure Sky Bloom! Azure Sea Fall!</em>

    With a final flourish, his Flying Sword pierced through the heart of the Punishment Elder, Fu Gui, and with a sweep of his Palm Sword, he decapitated the Inheritance Elder, Fu Shan.

    Passing by with his umbre, Yun Xiao left only broken bodies and spilled blood in his wake, yet he himself seemed radiant, like a white lotus blooming atop a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood.

    He looked over the battlefield, his voice calm, "I''m not satisfied yet. Who''s next?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 355: A Seeds of Creation Buffet!

    Chapter 355: A Seeds of Creation Buffet!

    "Ten days ago, Exile Yun''sbat prowess could rival the Early Heaven Sanctuary Realm. Now, he''s cutting down peak powerhouses in the Perfect Heaven Sanctuary Realm!"

    Witnessing the brutal demise of the Sun Princess, Fu Gui, and Fu Shan, everyone from the Nine Hells present felt a collective gasp hitch in their throats.

    Such a meteoric rise, sprinting through lifetimes of cultivation in mere days, who wouldn''t feel their heart skip a beat?

    From this moment, those still opposing Yun Xiao, be they Inscription Cultivators or Yang Devils, a seed of fear had undoubtedly taken root in their hearts.

    "Don''t be bewitched! He''s surely taken a shortcut, his foundation''s bound to be shaky, and he''ll spiral into madness sooner orter!" Ao Yuan of the Leviathan Ravine bellowed, reigniting their fighting spirit with her stern warning.

    "Fellows, a fiend descends upon us, pleading will get us nowhere; only by ending him can we settle this once and for all!" As Wraith Eye spread his chilling promation, he transformed into a thick ck smoke, weaving through the blood-drenched battlefield, making a beeline for Yun Xiao.

    With the Wick Devil and Talisman Emperor held up, the interim leaders of the two great oceanic hells set their sights on Yun Xiao.

    The two demons exchanged a nce, their eyes brimming with nothing but a profound desire to kill.

    "Die!" A thunderous roar of defiance echoed from all around, signaling the Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils'' refusal to yield.

    They stood at the top of the Nine Hells. Bowing to the Yin Devils, merfolk, or Sword Cultivators was beyond them!

    Inspired by the war cries, more Yang Devils and Inscription Cultivators abandoned their foes, their eyes blood-red as they charged towards Yun Xiao, unleashing a barrage of magic treasures, daoist spells, and demon magic.

    Yun Xiao, however, remained stoically silent amidst the myriad of deadly attacks, weaving through them with a chilling countenance.

    Alone, he bore the brunt of the onught for all his followers.

    They all aimed for his life!

    As long as Yun Xiao stood, their numerical advantage in other ces evaporated, leaving them at the mercy of the Sword Warden, Siren Empress, and Netherworld Emperor, three rulers in the Genesis Spirit Realm ready to ughter them without a second thought.

    "Wraith Eye! Ao Yuan!" From afar, the enraged bellow of the Wick Devil echoed.

    Entangled by the Phoenix Empress, his attempts to break free were thwarted time and time again. With the phoenix''s blinding speed, the Wick Devil found himself on the back foot.

    ring at the Phoenix Empress, he seethed, "What in zes has gotten into you? With the rise of Sword Cultivators, your entire tribe is fodder for their Sword Aura and Sword Rings! You''re betraying your own lineage, an act even the forebears of the Primeval Demon Hell wouldn''t forgive!"

    "Nonsense!" The Phoenix Empress chuckled dismissively. "There aren''t that many Sword Cultivators. The resentment demons and sea dragons are enough for them; it won''te to us."

    "And you believe that? Nave! When their des turn towards your Primeval Demon Hell, you''ll know regret!" the Wick Devil growled, his eyes ame.

    "I do believe it, and what will you do about it?" The Phoenix Empressughed, rolling her eyes. "Too bad, you won''t even get the chance to beg for mercy. Yun Xiao has already marked you for death."

    Fuming, the Wick Devil felt his chest about to burst.

    "Foolish demon!"

    How could such a talent be so hard to kill?

    At that moment, many gasped in shock.

    Turning his fiery gaze, the Wick Devil saw Ao Yuan and Wraith Eye shing with Yun Xiao!

    "They might have a chance!" The Wick Devil felt a surge of malicious hope.

    He knew the formidable strength of these two sea demon rulers.

    "Yun Xiao is not invincible!"

    Seeing Yun Xiao finally struggling, a glimmer of hope sparked among the dissenters. Their killing intent reignited, and the cries for battle outside the Eight Trigrams formation grew louder.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A dragon tail, armored in scales like a massive sword, crashed against Yun Xiao''s violet umbre, sending him flying with such ferocity that the umbre burst apart. He tumbled to the ground, his white robe instantly stained with blood, a trickle escaping the corner of his moutha clear sign he was wounded.

    "He''s out of tricks!" Around him, over a dozen fighters circled, their faces twisted with ferocity, eyes alight with murderous intent.

    "Ao Yuan''s prowess is undeniable! Truly a beast on the cusp of the Genesis Spirit Realm..."

    Admiration flickered in the eyes of the onlookers as they caught a glimpse of the azure dragon before Yun Xiao, her mist-shrouded form boasting pearl-like eyes, razor-sharp ws, and fangs, an aura both demonic and regal enveloping her.

    "But Wraith Eye is the real terror!"

    Looming behind Yun Xiao was a pitch-ck fog, within which lurked a sea urchin-like creature, its spiny tentacles stretching far and wide, each tipped with an eyea thousand eyes on a thousand spines.

    Wraith Eye, a unique blend of sea demon and resentment spirit, was once a mere sea urchin turned demon. By a twist of fate and fueled by the resentment of the blind, it sprouted Eyes of Vengeance in the dark abyss, seeking retribution.

    The eyes on its tentacles, the most fearsome aspect of Wraith Eye,manded a terrifying presence across the seas, its gaze reaching unfathomable depths, capable of ensnaring souls, a master of deception and guile.

    Were it not for its aging urchin body, it would possess the true might of the Genisis Spirit Realm.

    "Finish him, both of you!"

    Just as Yun Xiao was wounded, the powerhouses surrounding him waited eagerly for the two demons to lead the charge, hoping to swoop in for an easy victory.

    Without mincing words, Wraith Eye and Ao Yuan were even more anxious.

    In the midst of this tension, the young man in white suddenly looked up. The shattered runic inscriptions from his umbre coalesced on his forehead, forming aplete, violet, vertical eye!

    Within this eerie violet gaze, a nine-headed dao dragon bellowed furiously, its violet runic inscriptions spreading across Yun Xiao''s face, lending him an even more otherworldly appearance.

    In the blink of an eye, Yun Xiao swallowed a handful of Heavenly Dao Sariras, which dove straight into his Nine Suns Dantian, blending into the tinum cores of his primordial void suns, causing his sacred power to surge once more.

    It was in to see that the Dao Heart at his core was now unshakably firm, fully capable of restraining the rising tide of sacred power.

    With a hum, Yun Xiao''s sacred power soared once again, breaking through to the Establishment Fate Ocean Realm right in the heat of battle.

    "Thanks to you all, my Worldly Dao Heart is fully formed."

    Under the gaze of the Soulfire Eye, the blood on Yun Xiao''s white robe evaporated, and his previously paleplexion flushed with health. Far from showing any signs of injury, he seemed even stronger than before.

    This turn of events, just when the Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, and sea demons thought they saw a glimmer of hope, made their faces fall and brows furrow in dismay.

    "Today, truly is a feast of Seeds of Creation." Yun Xiao surveyed the battlefield, where the essence, blood, and flesh of humans, devils, and demonsy scattered everywhere.

    It seemed every soul possessed a Dao Seed Talent!

    Money, blood essence, and Deste EssenceYun Xiao imed them all, and now, with a penchant for looting the fallen... His foes wouldn''t carry a single hair into their next lives!

    As Yun Xiao shockingly advanced in the blink of an eye, his assants dared not dy, with over a dozen moreunching a ferocious assault.

    Among them, Wraith Eye and Ao Yuan posed significant trouble for Yun Xiao.

    Wraith Eye was the most formidable threat!

    It was Wraith Eye''s resentful gaze that had ensnared Yun Xiao, leading him to face Ao Yuan''s dragon tail head-on, overwhelmed by sheer force!

    And now, Wraith Eye lurked in the shadows, its myriad resentful eyes casting their demonic spellcraft once more.

    A mournful, deep seament enveloped the air, first stirring sorrow in the hearts of those who heard it.

    Then, Wraith Eye''s typically dark form shimmered with dazzling light, its thousands of eyes standing erect like a snail''s antennae, each shing with iridescent hues.

    <em>Demon Magic, Thousand Blossom Sea Eyes!</em>

    In Yun Xiao''s vision, those thousands of eyes transformed into a sea of colorful blossoms, each petal vividly unfurling like a thousand swirling vortexes, drawing his gaze into their depths once again!

 Chapter 356: Harvest the Dragon Tendons, Refining the Dragon Corpse!

    Chapter 356: Harvest the Dragon Tendons, Refining the Dragon Corpse!

    "I heard Wraith Eye''s demon magic bes tenfold stronger in the sea!"

    "Even the Sea Dragon Emperor and the Siren Empress might not be his match!"

    Witnessing this spectacle, the assants circling Yun Xiao couldn''t help but hold him in awe. Just moments ago, Yun Xiao was ensnared by the bewitching gaze of the Thousand Blossom Sea Eye, falling prey to Ao Yuan''s cunning strike.

    But as Wraith Eye summoned its demon magic once more, pouring its entire sacred power into the magic, its power surged. Like a thousand spears, its spiked tendrilsshed out, aiming to pierce Yun Xiao through and through.

    "Ao Yuan!" Wraith Eye''s sinister voice thundered, a clear signal to the sea dragon to unleash her might, to hold nothing back. This was their moment, their chance to strike.

    Understanding the call, everyone bombarded Yun Xiao with a maelstrom of daoist spells, magic treasures, and demon magic.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Death loomedrge as Ao Yuan unleashed a torrent of blue mes, not towards Yun Xiao but wrapping around her own fangs and ws. Wherever the mes touched, frost spread like a wintry gue, attempting to ensnare him in its icy grip.

    This was the moment of truth, the culmination of hopes for all the Inscription Cultivators and the demonic sea creatures. Every eye was wide, every breath held in suspense.

    "Do you truly despise me so?" Yun Xiao''s visage hardened, his resolve turning as cold as the deepest winter.

    Yes, Wraith Eye''s demon magic had him in its grasp, its dazzling lights attempting to ensnare him. But Yun Xiao''s gaze, piercing and unwavering, was locked in a cold, deadly focus.

    "You might have many eyes, but you''re blind," Yun Xiao taunted, "or you wouldn''t dare challenge me."

    He had no time for these petty squabbles, not when there were greater battles to fight. But if they insisted on standing in his way...

    With a silent incantation, Yun Xiao''s hand moved, and the Heaven Burial Sword Soul transformed into a Flying Sword, darting forward with lethal precision.

    The technique was known as the Azure Sky Bloom, a dance of light and speed, where the sword, swift and true, cut through the air like a ray of hope piercing the gloom.

    However, Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword wasn''t just performing the Azure Sky Bloom!

    In a blink, the sword transformed, mimicking the Taiji flying fish and then morphing into Rootless Grass, zipping through the air and striking Wraith Eye with the speed of lightning.

    With a single thrust, the sword pierced through Wraith Eye''s form, leaving a gaping wound three feet wide.

    Wraith Eye, in shock and agony, let out a trembling cry, its fear palpable as it locked eyes with Yun Xiao''s cold, violet gaze. At that moment, it realized it was a mere amateur in ocr artspared to him.

    Fear engulfed Wraith Eye, its bravado melting away.

    "I, the ruler of the seas, wish to lead the Undead Depths..." it began to plead.

    But Yun Xiao, with a flick of his finger, summoned the Flying Sword back.

    The sword, now buzzing and spinning like a stone skipping across water, made a swift and merciless return, severing Wraith Eye''s spiked tentacles, each adorned with an eye, and scattering them into a pool of blood.

    "NOOO!" Wraith Eye cried as the azure sword pierced it repeatedly, its screams ending abruptly as its body burst apart.

    Yun Xiao caught the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which reverted to a three-foot-long de, while his Prison Warden Sigil returned to the form of a Runic Umbre, covered in inscriptions.

    As Ao Yuan''s w, imbued with the cold mes, tore through the air, Yun Xiao blocked with the Runic Umbre and counterattacked with the Palm Sword.

    A Nirvana Flower blossomed from his sword, entwining the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and doubling its deadly power.

    With a sound like the snapping of bones, the sea dragon''s scales and skeleton, tough as any treasure, stood no match for the Heaven Burial Sword Soul''s might, which could even cleave through the Cmity Seal Sword.

    Yun Xiao''s strike sent Ao Yuan''s w flying, a shower of blood in its wake.

    With the agility of a shadow, he slipped beneath the sea dragon, evading a barrage of magical attacks that, ironically, wounded Ao Yuan further.

    The sea dragon writhed in agony, her majestic visage twisted with pain.

    Before Ao Yuan could gather her wits, Yun Xiao transformed his Runic Umbre into a Dao Dragon, unleashing zing Dragon Blood Boil upon her. The curse-like blood art clung to her veins, igniting them in an inferno.

    "Please Please spare us" Enveloped in mes, Ao Yuan''s flesh charred, her body convulsing as she curled up, attempting a plea for mercy that was cut short by Yun Xiao''s merciless strike, plucking a dragon tendon from her neck.

    Deprived of her strength, Ao Yuan copsed, her life hanging by a thread under the relentless assault of the zing Dragon Blood Boil technique.

    "Your Seed of Creation talent is pretty rare. It''s a type that enhances the tendons," Yun Xiao remarked, hisment left unheard by Ao Yuan, whoy dying, her gaze dimming with despair and fear until she breathed herst.

    With the fall of Wraith Eye and Ao Yuan, the sea demons lost their leaders, their morale shattered, their ranks in disarray. Their pleas for mercy, ignored by Yun Xiao, were a clear message to all; he was not to be trifled with.

    The sea demons, once eager to attack, now trembled in fear. Yun Xiao''s might had broken their spirit, earning their fear and submission.

    As their hearts shattered under the weight of fear, the demonic horde cast their terrified gazes upon the young man in white, and one by one, they found themselves kneeling before him.

    "Toote," Yun Xiao dered, his voice cold as he nced over them.

    Before their very eyes, he transformed the corpses of Ao Yuan and Wraith Eye into two Blood Crystal Sword Rings, seizing the powerful demon magics of the Sea Heart me and Thousand Blossom Sea Eye for himself, thetter proving to be particrly useful.

    With a crisp snap, Yun Xiao fitted the new Sword Rings onto his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, announcing, "Nine Sword Rings!"

    His words, heavy with an endless terror, swept through the Immortal Asylum, silencing the previously enraged spectating Inscription Cultivators and demons, who suddenly found themselves voiceless.

    Ao Yuan, Wraith Eye, the Sun Princess, and those who had perished before them had sought Yun Xiao''s demise, only to meet their own fates in a more tragic end.

    "With these two sea demons gone, there''s no one left within the formation capable of killing Yun Xiao," the onlookers murmured among themselves, aghast at the realization that even the numerical advantage held by the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil seemed to have evaporated.

    Yun Xiao, the Sword Warden, the Netherworld Emperor, the Siren Empress, the War Princess, Moon Fairy, and other powerhouses were decimating their foes,pletely overturning the enemy''s advantage.

    The battlefield within the Eight Trigrams formation was littered predominantly with the corpses of Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, resentment demons, and sea dragons.

    "The bnce has been utterly shattered!" Mu Daxiong eximed, his eyes zing with fervor. Before the battle, his heart was heavy with worry, but now, he realized his concerns were unfounded.

    "I thought we were to be ughtered, but instead, we''re the ones doing the ughtering!" Du Zhongyuanughed heartily, his sentiment resonating with the 1,000 Sword Cultivators gathered around, even drawingughter from the gathered Yin Devils.

    Only thend demons felt somewhat awkward, hesitant to approach the Sword Cultivators too closely. Yet, seeing the Phoenix Empress align with the right side, they breathed a sigh of relief from the depths of their souls.

    "Could it be," they wondered, "that the Empress'' baffling strategy was actually correct? After so many years, I never imagined we''d fight alongside Sword Cultivators... What a departure from the norm!"

    "My parents were in by Sword Cultivators, and I''ve sworn revenge. What am I to do now?" The question hung in the air, reflecting theplex emotions and shifting allegiances of the moment.

    The demons exchanged bewildered looks, their minds a nk te.

    The climax of the battle had reached a suffocating intensity.

    It was clear that the sea dragons and the resentment demons were ready to kneel, but Yun Xiao wouldn''t have it.

    While the Inscription Cultivators and the Yang Devils, still bolstered by their mightiest, were clinging on desperately.

    "Where''s Yun Xiao?" The onlookers from outside the battlefield suddenly realized Yun Xiao had vanished from sight.

    Fortunately, he soon reappeared, but something about him seemed different.

    "Why does he seem changed?" Mu Daxiong murmured, puzzled.

    "Yes, there''s a certain demonic aura about him now, and a hint of bloodthirstiness..." Du Zhongyuan added, equally baffled.

    "But he seems stronger, terrifyingly so," Mu Daxiong couldn''t help but feel a surge of excitement.

    The battlefield was chaotic, with daoist spells and demon magic flying everywhere, obscured further by blood mist and illusions. No one could tell what had transpired with Yun Xiao during his brief disappearance.

    Du Zhongyuan, with a keen eye, whispered to Mu Daxiong, "What''s your sister doing with that cloth bag off to the side?"

    "I have no idea..." Mu Daxiong was clueless.

    Now, with Yun Xiao so conspicuously powerful, who would pay attention to Mu Dalong?

    With a stomp, the young man in whitemanded the attention of all, the entire Eight Trigrams formation trembling beneath his feet.

    The sword light rippled through the arena, causing a shudder in the hearts of the powerhouses, all eyes drawn to him.

    "Bring me the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil," Yun Xiao''s icy gaze settled on the two greatest thorns on his side in the Nine Hells.

    He was ready, no longer holding back.

    Yun Xiao had no interest in a drawn-out battle with them.

    Hearing his challenge, a wave of shock ran through the crowd.

    "Yun Xiao is taking on the two mightiest in the Nine Hells, alone..."

    The crowd was spellbound, their hearts racing.

    The Inscription Cultivators and demons outside fell silent, not daring to utter a word.

    "Understood," Pale Revenant responded without hesitation, halting her attacks on the Talisman Emperor and retreating behind Yun Xiao.

    "Fine then!" The Phoenix Empress grimaced slightly, clearly displeased but not refusing. She kept a vignt eye on the battlefield, deeply aware of Yun Xiao''s explosive achievements under immense pressure, and felt a certain reverence.

    This unexpected turn of events sparked a glimmer of hope in the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil, who had been on the brink of despair. They boldly presented themselves before Yun Xiao.

    The Talisman Emperor''s eyes zed with a vendetta as vast as the sea, pondering how to avenge his kin. The Wick Devil was fueled by a rage to scorch the heavens. He knew that the Yang Devils faced envement by the Yin Devils should they fall, leaving him with no choice but to stand firm. Even if the resentful demons had knelt, he could not.

    Exchanging nces, the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil''s intent to kill was overwhelming, unable to believe the situation had escted to this extent, yet reality had pped them hard. Now, their only source of confidence was their standing as some of the mightiest in the Nine Hells...

    Side by side, the two charged forward, theirbined aura formidable.

    "Should we stop and watch?" the Phoenix Empress asked, sensing something oddly familiar about him.

    "Continue the onught, don''t stop," Yun Xiaomanded coldly, facing the duo, "Spare none, leave no survivors."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 357: One Versus Two!

    Chapter 357: One Versus Two!

    "Continue the ughter. Kill them all?"

    Yun Xiao''s casual order sent a shiver through the followers gathered around. Their eyes darted to the crew trapped within the Eight Trigrams formationInscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, resentment demons, sea dragons... over 100 stalwarts from the four great hells!

    Among them, the Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, and resentment demons ranked in the top three of the Nine Hells.

    "If these peak powerhouses in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm were to fall, the Nine Hells would surely be upended! We might just swallow them whole!" Second Uncle, quivering with not fear but excitement, confided to the Netherworld Emperor.

    The idea of the Endless Netherworld gobbling up the Rising Sun Inferno was a fantasy so wild, not even the ancestors dared dream it.

    "If we pull this off, it''d be sheer madness..." Second Uncle''s dark red eyes filled with a mix of respect and awe as he looked at Yun Xiao.

    "Dreaming big is premature. Let''s focus on the ughter!" The Netherworld Emperor''s voice was icy, his gaze towards Yun Xiao deep. "Sess hinges on whether he can take down those two and crush the enemy''s spirit... We follow his lead!"

    Despite his cool exterior, his blood was boiling. As the ruler of the Yin Devils, he''d endured a lifetime of suppression and humiliation from the Wick Devil, harboring untold resentment. The plight of many Yin Devil women fueled his hatred.

    Now, with the opportunity before him, how could he not be driven to madness?

    "Attack!" The Netherworld Emperor, outwardlyposed, was the first to heed Yun Xiao''smand, leading the charge of the Yin Devils against the Yang Devils with a fervor that outpaced even the Sword Cultivators.

    The Yin Devils, usually the picture of sophistication and grace, unleashed a killing frenzy that sent the already panicking Yang Devils reeling. "These cowards! They won''t cry until they see the coffin!"

    "Netherworld Emperor, have you considered the consequences of defeat? The Endless Netherworld cannot bear the wrath of all the Yang Devils!"

    "Stay calm, everyone. We just need to annihte the Yin Devils, and then we can all gang up on Yun Xiao!"

    The Yang Devils, inmed with rage, showcased their unyielding spirit with a vicious counterattack. True to their fearsome reputation!

    "We join the fray!" The Sword Warden, expression cold, led the Sword Ruins Overseers in a renewed assault, targeting the Inscription Cultivators.

    The Yang Devils and Inscription Cultivators, known for their fierce fighting spirit, proved to be the toughest nuts to crack.

    In stark contrast, the resentment demons and sea dragons, having lost their guiding force and their offer to surrender being rejected by Yun Xiao, possessed the resolve to fight to the death butcked the belief in victory.

    "Charge!" The Phoenix Empress and the Siren Empress exchanged a nce, and in a flurry of action, thend demons and the merfolk joined forces, diving into battle together.

    The sh erupted anew, a veritable storm of forces colliding!

    Magic treasures, daoist spells, demon magic, Life Sigils, and Sword Souls swept across the battlefield, unleashing a cacophony of chaos that sent shivers down the spines of the onlookers.

    Man against man.

    Devil fighting devil.

    Demon ying demon.

    Ironically, it was those of the same kind who harbored the deepest hatred for each other.

    The ancient grudges and new vendettas within the Nine Hells painted a tapestry far moreplex than the divine-demonic dichotomies.

    Within each n, the underdogs rallied behind Yun Xiao, desperate for a chance to overturn their fortunes.

    "The forces under the banner of the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil are slightly more numerous."

    "But Yun Xiao''s ranks boast five Genesis Spirit Realm powerhouses! Particrly, Pale Revenant and the Phoenix Empress are unstoppable..."

    As the melee raged on, it became clear to all with eyes to see that the advantagey with Yun Xiao''s followers!

    The Yang Devils and the Inscription Cultivators were formidable foes, but the tide turned when Pale Revenant entered the fray, shattering Yang Devils with her fists and tearing through the enemy lines, obliterating the Life Sigil formation of the Inscription Cultivators with her overwhelming might!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Amidst the deafening roars, the cold, calcted killing spree of the five Genesis Spirit Realm powerhouses unfolded.

    Like daggers piercing the heart of the enemy, they drew the focus of numerous foes, creating openings for their allies among the Sword Cultivators and Yin Devils to wreak havoc, leaving a trail of blood and carnage in their wake.

    Every man, devil, and demon fought with frenzied abandon, unleashing generations of pent-up frustration and rage, channeling it through their des and spells, crashing down upon their foes, shattering the heads of Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils alike.

    This sealed battlefield, a veritable ughterhouse with no escape, presented an opportunity like no other.

    "When else would such a chance arise?"

    "They even sought to provoke a great war of untold scale, one that would engulf the innocent, using the lives of themon folk to corner Yun Xiao," the Netherworld Emperor dered, his voice a cold promation.

    Many among the Sword Cultivators and the merfolk were unaware of this plot.

    "To ensure the peace of the Nine Hells and the safety of its people, these cancerous rebels must be eradicated within this half hour!" The Sword Warden, his sword sweeping across the battlefield,manded the other Sword Cultivators with a chilling resolve.

    "Those two are truly ruthless..." the Phoenix Empress observed, rallying thend demons, "Our Primeval Demon Hell cherishes peace and abhors war... To protect the innocents of the Nine Hells, we must exterminate these unprincipled rebels!"

    Everyone knew who the rebel was, clear as day.

    And it sure wasn''t Yun Xiao!

    Framing, now who couldn''t y that game?

    But once the words of those three Hell Wardens were out, it was in as a pikestaff that some folks, if left breathing, wouldn''t let bygones be bygones.

    Dragging innocents into their power squabbles was par for their course.

    "Down with the rebels! All hail the Exiled Sword Immortal! Safeguard peace!" The Siren Empress, wise as the ancient seas, coined a slogan that struck a chord, rallying a chorus from even the Sword Cultivators, Yin Devils, and merfolk spectating outside the formation.

    "Let''s join in, shall we?"

    Plenty ofnd demons, bewildered yet swept up in the moment, found themselves backing the very bane of their existence.

    In an instant, a vast tide of support surged towards Yun Xiao!

    Forget the legions outside; even thebatants were sneaking peeks, all chanting for Yun Xiao.

    "Exile Yun! Exile Yun!"

    The ground shook with their fervor, a testament to their blind adoration for the reincarnated true Immortal.

    Yun Xiao stood aloft, a figure transcendent, his might mirroring that of his two adversaries, man and devil alike.

    "Exile Yun has already suffered some damage from Wraith Eye and Ao Yuan! The Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil are both in the Mid Genesis Spirit Realm, leagues beyond those two sea demons..."

    Truth be told, the more level-headed had their worries.

    "Cut the analysis! Would Exile Yun be the object of such fervor if he yed by the book?"

    "Difficulties be damned, he''ll personally take down the traitors!"

    "Difficult? Give him 15 minutes, and victory is his!"

    "15 minutes? Mark my words, the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil fall within ten moves!"

    The Sword Cultivators, Yin Devils, and merfolk buzzed with their bets.

    "Ten moves?" Mu Daxiong couldn''t help but smile through his disbelief.

    "They must be riding the high of fervor to spout such wild ims without a grip on reality," Du Zhongyuan chuckled.

    They knew the score!

    Yun Xiao''s rise was meteoric yet grounded, step by solid step.

    They''d watched his tumultuous ascent, aware this battle would be no cakewalkpared to downing Wraith Eye and Ao Yuan...

    Yet their faith in Yun Xiao never wavered.

    "Exile Yun, born to work miracles!" the crowd roared, hearts pounding and eyes wide in anticipation of the imminent showdown. The three titans, after a brief standoff, burst into action without further ado.

    "Together, now!" The Talisman Emperor, wary of underestimating Yun Xiao, insisted on a united front with the Wick Devil. Theirbined attacks erupted in unison, a surge of sacred power overwhelming the arena, setting the Eight Trigrams formation trembling.

    The Talisman Emperor, eyes bloodshot with killing intent, unleashed his Sovereign Sigil. This Life Sigil, unfolding like a vastndscape, shook the very souls of those present. Mountains, rivers, celestial bodies all spun within its confines, its weight like that of a thousand mountains pressing down upon Yun Xiao.

    Any other from the Fate Ocean Realm would''ve been crushed to dust by its mere approach.

    "Ten days ago, it took Bluey and Reddy''s power and a fortune in Immortal Jades to fend off this Sovereign Sigil," Yun Xiao mused. Back then, the Talisman Emperor''s might was beyond what he could withstand, a fact that could''ve spelled his doom had he not had certain advantages.

    The Talisman Emperor was no fool; his every move was calcted, aimed at Yun Xiao''s downfall.

    "Pity, you''re up against me," Yun Xiao retorted, his gaze icy as the Sovereign Sigil descended in all its oppressive glory. At that moment, the Wick Devil appeared behind him, his strike heavy with the force of the Dragon Wick Seal, morphing into a fiery, blood-red dragon diving at Yun Xiao.

    At the same time, the Wick Devil unleashed the Rising Sun Devil Art, spewing a crimson me orb, small yet terrifyingly swift and potent.

    "Danger!" Onlookers gasped, hearts skipping a beat. Even the Sword Warden and Siren Empress frowned, worry etched on their faces.

    "Is he going to make it?" The Phoenix Empress spun around, disbelief etched across her celestial features. Even she wouldn''t dare face a siege from the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil.

    At that moment, a collective shiver ran through the crowd. The young man in white seemed ensnared in a swamp of destruction, surrounded by death on all sides. Doubts began to cloud the minds of many.

    How could he possibly take on two at once?

    In other words, why would the Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil grant him the chance for an epic showdown of three hundred rounds?

    In that heart-stopping moment, Yun Xiao made his move, his expression serene throughout.

    <em>Second Form, Dao Dragon!</em>

    <em>BUZZ! </em>His Prison Warden Sigil enveloped him, transforming him into a figure aglow with violet light.

    "A sigil?" His deep eyes nced at the Talisman Emperor as the sacred power of man, devil, and demon within him surged through the runic pathways of the Prison Warden Sigil, erupting in power.

    Last time, with Moon Fairy and the War Princess far stronger than him, the fusion was somewhatcking. But this time, his own strength had risen, with his primordial void sacred power taking the lead, pouring into the Prison Warden Life Sigil.

    "The three powersbined push me to around the Early Genesis Spirit Realm..."

    When Yun Xiao''s power was no longer at a significant disadvantage, he became a force beyond imagination.

    With a flick of his fingers, nine swirling vortexes burst into existence before him.

    <em>Wuji Dao Art!</em>

    But it wasn''t just the Wuji Dao Art at y here!

    Within each of those invisible vortexes, space twisted, and the blood art zing Dragon Blood Boil intertwined, igniting the vortexes with a crimson dragonfire that seemed to sear the very air.

    "Hmm?" The Talisman Emperor''s Sovereign Sigil, with the weight of thousands of mountains and rivers, crashed against the nine crimson vortexes!

    "Step aside." With a flick of his wrist, Yun Xiao unleashed the Wuji Dao Art''s fiery wrath, pping the Talisman Emperor''s Sovereign Sigil like a series of fiery backhands!

    <em>BOOM! </em>A thunderous explosion reverberated through the air as the nine vortexes roared to life, overpowering the Talisman Emperor and his Sovereign Sigil, sweeping them aside as if they were mere chaff.

    The Talisman Emperor was sent flying, crashing into the barrier of the Eight Trigrams formation several hundred meters away.

    Spitting out a mouthful of dark blood, the p from the Wuji Dao Art seemed tond not just on the Sovereign Sigil but squarely on the Talisman Emperor''s face. His chest heaved, eyes filled with shattered vessels as if his pupils had burst from the shock.

    "Yun Xiao!" He growled, teeth nearly biting through his tongue, his mind a nk te.

    "Good heavens..." The crowd, struck dumb as if pped themselves, watched on in stunned silence.

 Chapter 358: Stand Up, Dont Disgrace Yourselves More!

    Chapter 358: Stand Up, Don''t Disgrace Yourselves More!

    Under the gaze of those trembling giants, Yun Xiao didn''t pause for even a split second!

    After sending the Talisman Emperor flying with a p, Yun Xiao summoned the Runic Umbre, blocking the Wick Devil''s Dragon Wick Seal and the apocalyptic sorcery of the Rising Sun Devil Art!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Dragon Wick Seal, like a hundred thousand tons of steel, shed against the seemingly delicate paper umbre!

    At the same time, the Rising Sun Devil Art erupted, unleashing a wave of fire thousands of feet high, swallowing the umbre like the end of the world itself. No one dared face this attack head-on!

    Just when everyone instinctively thought this ferocious onught would send Yun Xiao flying again, something incredible happened.

    He stood his ground, unmovable!

    Upon impact, the Dragon Wick Seal let out a wail, ricocheted off, and smacked right into the Wick Devil''s face, bursting into a fountain of ck blood!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Meanwhile, the tidal wave of fire from the Rising Sun Devil Art washed over him like a tsunami!

    Yet, beneath the Runic Umbre, Yun Xiao''s white robe remained spotless...

    The blood-red storm swirled around the umbre, forcing dozens of people nearby to flee in disarray... Yet, in the eye of this storm, Yun Xiao''s hair merely fluttered in the wind.

    "HUH!?" The Wick Devil''s eyes bulged at the sight, his mind a whirlpool of shock.

    "Having regrets?" Yun Xiao propped up his violet Runic Umbre, offering a serene smile to the Wick Devil.

    "What in the world are you!?" The Wick Devil shrieked, his face cracking as he stumbled back three steps, nearly copsing.

    "Think it over in the afterlife." With those calm words, Yun Xiao summoned a Flying Sword with a flick of his wrist.

    This Flying Sword was no ordinary de! Infused with the essence of the Primordial Void, Divine Destion, and Mortal Dust, it was forged with the power of both spirit and flesh!

    It was a simple attack. Yun Xiao didn''t even employ any Flying Sword techniques!

    Yet, as the de soared, the Wick Devil''s fate was sealed.

    Death was inevitable.

    The swift strike of that sword was so quick, nearly no one in the crowd caught a glimpse.

    All they saw was Yun Xiao pointing a finger, and then the Wick Devil''s head, filled with terror, burst into a cloud of blood mist without so much as a scream escaping.

    All that was left was a headless, burly body staggering a few steps before kneeling before Yun Xiao, its neck gushing blood like a broken dam.

    The Immortal Asylum fell into an eerie silence!

    From the moment Yun Xiao sent the Talisman Emperor flying with a p, not a soul could utter a sound.

    They stood dumbstruck as Yun Xiao effortlessly crushed and killed the Wick Devil, their minds a nk te, feeling as though they were ascending to the heavens themselves.

    Amidst their dazed stares, Yun Xiao reached out his hand, and the Heaven Burial Sword Soul transformed into a three-foot-long azure de, which he grasped firmly in his hand.

    With a buzz, he turned on his heel, and in an instant, appeared before the Talisman Emperor.

    The Talisman Emperor, with blood trickling from the corner of his mouth and just managing to rise, witnessed a scene that seemed to tear his very insides apart.

    "Got anyst words?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "No need," the Talisman Emperor said with a wry smile. His expression was a spectacle to behold. Awkward and sorrowful all at once. He couldn''t fathom where he went wrong, yet the defeat was embarrassingly stark.

    From the moment Yun Xiao became known, he plotted murder. He didn''t even want to give him ten days, attempting assassination twice in between. Yet, all attempts failed! What was the right move?

    Was he to simply stand by and watch as Yun Xiao aided the rise of the Sword Cultivators?

    The Talisman Emperor couldn''t bear it! As the Nine Hells Conqueror, to surrender without a fight was a disgrace.

    "Yun Xiao, you too will meet your end!" The Talisman Emperor wasn''t one to wallow in sorrow.

    Though he appeared defeated, he suddenlyshed out, his Aurum grade Sovereign Sigil transforming into a gaping maw of crimson, snapping viciously towards Yun Xiao''s head, mere inches away!

    With a sh, Yun Xiao cut the Sovereign Sigil in two, right down the middle.

    The Talisman Emperor''s lifelong confidence was severed in two with a single stroke!

    "Nice piece of work." In Yun Xiao''s palm appeared the Prison Warden Sigil.

    The destroyed pieces of the Sovereign Sigil fell like rain, merging with the Prison Warden Sigil. Its Runes began to weave into the bodies of the nine-headed Prison Warden Dragon.

    "See that? I''m absorbing the Runes you''ve ved your life away to craft," Yun Xiao said with a smile to the Talisman Emperor.

    "Impossible!" The Talisman Emperor faced the most devastating blow of his life. How could one Life Sigil devour another? His eyes bulged, his face cracked with disbelief, hands trembling.

    With a squelch, just as he was about to scream, Yun Xiao''s sword pierced through his mouth and out the back of his skull.

    With a swift pull, Yun Xiao retrieved the azure de.

    The Talisman Emperor swayed, still gazing in disbelief, then slowly knelt and fell face forward to the ground.

    Silence still reigned in the Immortal Asylum.

    All skirmishes and battles had paused the moment the Talisman Emperor was struck, leaving no one in the mood for further conflict.

    "When I fuse all three powers, my strength is indeed absurd. Not just Mid Genesis Spirit Realm, I might even be able to take on someone in the Perfect Genesis Spirit Realm," Yun Xiao mused quietly.

    His followers had thought this battle would be tough. Instead, two strikes brought swift ends. One sword per foe. Like slicing through melons and vegetables.

    The Talisman Emperor and the Wick Devil weren''t afraid to die in battle. But the manner of their deaths shattered thempletely. It was a strike to the heart.

    And not just their hearts were struck! But also those of all Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, resentment demons, and sea dragons.

    Within the Eight Trigrams formation, almost 100 fighters in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm let their arms fall limply, each trembling, eyes filled with fear and despair.

    "I, I..."

    <em>THUD! THUD! </em>One by one, they knelt to the ground before Yun Xiao, their heels trembling, their bodies prostrate.

    "Exile, Exile Yun... mercy, mercy please."

    "We yield, we yield..."

    "Don''t kill us, please."

    Almost 100 top powerhouses of the Nine Hells couldn''t muster a single coherent plea among them.

    The Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, resentment demons, and sea dragons alike all knelt.

    "In the Field Pce, you all swore blood oaths," Yun Xiao stated.

    The crowd bowed their heads in silence, their faces pale, daring not to speak further.

    Yun Xiao pursed his lips. "You made your choice, now bear the consequences. Don''t think of switching sides now, hoping for mercy. That''s naive."

    After a pause, he waved them off, "Stand up, don''t disgrace yourselves further. I''ll give you the chance to die on your feet."

    "Exile Yun," an elderly Inscription Cultivator cried out in despair, "We were coerced by the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil! As subordinates, what choice did we wretches have? Now that these traitors have paid, we''re ready to turn over a new leaf and serve you. Please, give us a chance!"

    "If you''re all wretches, then there are no lucky souls under heaven," Yun Xiao replied, before piercing the elder''s throat with a sword, adding coldly, "Stand up, don''t make me despise you!"

    "Exile Yun, heaven cherishes life. We''ve repented. Why make things difficult for us? Show mercy today, and you''ll surely be blessed, smoothly returning to the ranks of true Immortals one day," a female Inscription Cultivator pleaded tearfully.

    "Do you know what I despise most in my life?" Yun Xiao fixed his gaze on her.

    The woman shook her head, tears streaming down her face.

    "I detest being morally ckmailed," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Uh..." The woman''s face turned ashen.

    "Kill." Yun Xiaomanded the Sword Wardens and others.

    "Kill!!!" The Sword Warden, Siren Empress, Netherworld Emperor, and others charged forward without hesitation.

    There was no room for negotiation! Spare them? So they could lead a still-superior immortal army against themon folk once outside?

    Yun Xiao''s mind was crystal clear. To quash a faction, one must strike like lightning, eliminating any hint of rebellion... Only then could true peace be achieved, solving the problem once and for all!

    He wasn''t just ordering the killings; he was part of the action!

    "You fiend! You massacre without mercy, your sins vast as the ocean. You force all beings into submission with your ughter. You''re brutal, selfish, and you''ll meet a grim end! The heavens will punish you sooner orter!" That female Inscription Cultivator stood up, pointing at Yun Xiao''s neck, hurling curses.

    No sooner had she finished her tirade than Pale Revenant appeared before her, her fist smashing the user''s head to bits!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The real massacre had begun!

    Where Yun Xiao went, no one could withstand a single strike of his sword. In this sealed-off world, killing was the simplest task.

    Of course, you had to be strong enough!

    "All Inscription Cultivators, follow mymand, y them!"

    "Yang Devils, attack!"

    The Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils began ordering those outside the formation. But as they roared in fury, those outside, paralyzed by fear, didn''t move an inch.

    <em>THUD! </em>Tens of thousands prostrated before Yun Xiao.

    In that moment, the hearts of the 100 or so being ughtered brokepletely.

    Overwhelmed by terror, they were utterly powerless, dominated by the fear Yun Xiao brought. There was no way out but death.

    "Listen up!" Yun Xiao''s sword swept through the enemies as he dered, "All your Bags of Holding are now mine!"

    The crowd couldn''t help but feel embarrassed.

    Who would darepete with you for treasures?

    "Once I''ve skinned it, the rest of the flesh is yours," Yun Xiao said to Pale Revenant.

    Pale Revenant nodded obediently, her agreement as quiet as a whisper.

    Blood Essence, Deste Essence, Sword Rings, demon bonesYun Xiao imed them all.

    And the precious Immortal Jades? That was his, no question.

    With a thunderous crash, the Dragon Wick Seal was tossed before the Netherworld Emperor.

    "Who?" The Netherworld Emperor looked up to see it was Yun Xiao who had thrown it.

    The young man in white gave him a nce and then walked away.

    "Wow, that''s bold," Second Uncle grumbled beside the Netherworld Emperor, "What''s with his attitude? He''s acting like he''s your son-inw!"

    "Keep it down." The Netherworld Emperor reached for the Dragon Wick Seal, a treasure he had long coveted but never imagined he''d actually get his hands on.

    "Don''t touch!" Second Uncle suddenly cried out in rm.

    "What''s the matter?" the Netherworld Emperor inquired.

    "epting gifts makes you indebted. Touch that, and your daughter''s hand is as good as gone," Second Uncle exined, resigned.

    "Idiot!" The Netherworld Emperor smacked him, grumbling, "Take it or not, she''s already gone!"

    Now was the time to secure as many gifts as possible; or was he supposed to awkwardly broach the subjectter?

    "Come to think of it, the entire Rising Sun Inferno as a dowry should suffice," Second Uncle couldn''t help butugh.

    It was like a holiday!

    Inside the Eight Trigrams formation, Yun Xiao''s followers were all in high spirits.

    Yet, atop the high tform, Mo Jianzhi, Shen Xiaochan, and two others wore expressions cold as ice...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 359: Admit Defeat!

    Chapter 359: Admit Defeat!

    Mo Jianzhi, with eyes rolled back and in an eerie voice, said, "I thought I''d just give the underdog a leg up, let Yun Xiao have a ten-day break to catch up, and have ''em duke it out. But did I overdo it?"

    "That kid''s a bit much," the Dream Demon chimed in with a voice as tender as a babe yet eerie as a haunted whisper.

    "No harm done. Even if it didn''t end up with both sides wiping each other out, we''ve already more than halved their power," Shen Xiaochan mused, peering from the Eight Trigrams array to the Fate Ocean Realm cultivators outside, a sly grin on her face. "These remaining small fry are no real threat."

    "With the Immortal Asylum sealed, the array is locked tight. It''ll pick ''em apart, eat ''em up, and that''s the ticket to breaking free..." Kun Jiang''s face twisted with a touch of madness, ncing around the battlefield, already hearing the spine-tingling skitter-skatter from the shadows.

    "Think it''ll gobble up the kid?" Shen Xiaochan suddenly asked.

    "Why not?" Mo Jianzhi''s lips curled into a sly smile. "After all, he''s the main course at this feast."

    With that, the four of them stood solemn, respectfully waiting for their <em>master</em> to take the stage.

    A feast, ready tomence.

    It was a massacre! The remaining 100 or so rebels in the Heaven Sanctuary Real were torn asunder amidst the onught of Yun Xiao and the five Genesis Spirit Realm Powerhouses.

    With the bnce shattered and trapped within the array, these renowned figures of the Nine Hells had nowhere to run, meeting their grisly end on the spot!

    Those brash, arrogant Yang Devils, fell by the hands of the very Yin Demons they scorned.

    And those high-and-mighty Inscription Cultivators met their demise at the hands of the Sword Cultivators, their dying screams filled with indignation.

    The resentment demons and sea dragons fared even worse!

    Yun Xiao, right there on the battlefield, harvested their demon bones, refining their corpses into Blood Crystal Sword Rings, sparing nothing usable.

    "16,000yers of Sword Aura, just a notch above Mo Jianzhi." With Yun Xiao around, the other Sword Cultivators wouldn''t dare to absorb the demon corpses first on their own.

    "The Prison Warden Sigils and Heaven Burial Sword Soul share the same essence... After devouring about 40 Life Sigils, my Rune count has soared to 22,000!"

    Like Sword Aura, the absorbed Runes weren''t merely stacked; they were assimted by the Prison Warden Sigil, boosting Yun Xiao''s count by thousands, which was quite the feat.

    And so, his Sword Soul and Life Sigils saw significant growth.

    "Almost all gone." Yun Xiao surveyed the battlefield, where only a few Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils were still holding out, soon to be consumed by despair.

    "In broad daylight, it''s tricky to practice devouring techniques, but the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity has little to no repercussions."

    Standing in the midst of the battlefield, Yun Xiao remained motionless. Yet the blood of the fallen silently flowed towards him, forged by the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity into Mortal Dust Devil Blood, seeping into his Blood Base.

    Blood of the mighty from the four great hells!

    Without a doubt, the War Princess''s Blood Base was set for a transformative wee right then and there.

    Yun Xiao personally transmuted the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, visibly augmenting the Mortal Dust Devil Heart, mastering the power of his veins. The radiance of the Devil Heart within the walls of his physical heart shimmered ever more brightly, swiftly breaking through into the Establishment Heaven Sanctuary Realm.

    "Just a tad more growth in the Devil Heart, and stepping into the Heaven Sanctuary Realm should be no issue."

    The War Princess'' advance transformation would undoubtedly bolster his fused form yet again... And with the demise of the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil, theoretically, no one within the Nine Hells should obstruct Yun Xiao anymore.

    Yun Xiao''s true self, having imed all treasures and resources, faced no hurdles in his path to growth.

    But... even now, a seed of unease nestled in Yun Xiao''s heart! He knew the waters of the Nine Hells were deeper than he''d fathomed.

    At this moment, all enemies in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm or above, be they Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, resentment demons, or sea dragons, had been utterly eradicated!

    The Immortal Asylum remained eerily silent.

    "Exile Yun, these are all the tokens." The Sword Warden presented thepleted Trigram tokens before Yun Xiao.

    And so, whether by rule or by fact, Yun Xiao was the new Nine Hells Conqueror.

    "All hail the Nine Hells Conqueror!" Mu Tianjian knelt respectfully, his demeanor solemn. He set a fine example, and following his lead, every living soul, inside and outside the Eight Trigrams formation, felt a surge of reverence and submission, kneeling before Yun Xiao.

    A multitude bowed in homage.

    Henceforth, the fate of the Nine Hells was sealed.

    Yun Xiao looked up, his gaze extending beyond the formation to the Fate Ocean Realm Inscription Cultivators, Yang devils, and others. He hadn''t anticipated such thorough kneeling from these thousands.

    "You kneel before me, but are you prepared in your hearts?" Yun Xiao asked, his voice deep.

    "What preparation..."

    "In the future Nine Hells, humans, devils, and demons will fall under one governance! Humans shall honor the Sword Ruins, devils the Endless Netherworld, sea demons the merfolk... Those willing to ept this reality may remain kneeling; those unwilling, I offer you a chance to rebel," Yun Xiao dered.

    He never short changed his followers. It was the support with ample resources from the Sword Ruins, Yin Devils, andnd demons that allowed him to resolve the matter in ten days.

    These early birds, these clever souls, surely deserved a special favor.

    His deration was undoubtedly cruel, especially to these lofty figures from the four hells who were used to being on the top. But the hard truth was, all their big shots were dead.

    Right then and there, not a soul dared to cross Yun Xiao; the fear of him was etched deep in their hearts.

    Seeing a sea of heads bowed, not one daring to stand tall, Yun Xiaoid it on the line, "Crossing mees at a price, but y ball, and at least your kin might live to see another day!"

    Lose the battle, tip your hat.

    The Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, resentment demons, and sea dragons were hanging their heads, while the Sword Cultivators, Yin Devils, and merfolk were grinning ear to ear. Especially the Yin Devils.

    To their ears, Yun Xiao was practically handing over the Rising Sun Inferno, making them the new bosses of the Yang Devils!

    The madder the Yang Devils got, the better the Yin Devils felt!

    Right about now, the Netherworld Emperor and his crew were itching to step out and knock some sense into those uppity Yang Devils.

    The heart of the array in the Rising Sun Inferno, the Sun Cave, was anchored in by the Dragon Wick Seal. With the Netherworld Emperor holding that seal, he was the new ruler of the Rising Sun Inferno.

    It was clear as day; Yun Xiao was going out of his way for the War Princess and her kin.

    "Nine Hells Conqueror!"

    Yun Xiao''s renown echoed throughout the Immortal Asylum, drowning out all else!

    Everyone was eating out of his hand!

    "And what about our slice of the pie?" the Phoenix Empress piped up, feeling a tad left out.

    "What pie are you eyeing?" Yun Xiao turned, a smile ying on his lips. He couldn''t help it; even if it was his body double wooing her, it was all his hard work, and that tenderness was real.

    "Uh" The Phoenix Empress gave it some thought. Her territory in the Primeval Demon Hell was vast, and she couldn''t exactly exert her influence over the seas, so there wasn''t much to covet.

    "Yound demons getting off scot-free is already a win. Don''t push your luck," Yun Xiao shot her a look.

    In the Nine Hells, humans always had the upper hand, with demons historically getting the short end of the stick, often finding themselves on the wrong side of a beatdown.

    Yun Xiao''s beef with the Demon Continent''s demons didn''t quite carry over to the local variety in the Nine Hells.

    "You just can''t scrub demons outpletely," he''d reckon, his heart set on beefing up humanity. He envisioned a future with fewermoners and more cultivators, ready to stand tall against any outsiders.

    "Alright, alright, alright" the Phoenix Empress grumbled under her breath. Her run-ins with Yun Xiao were few and far between, but she couldn''t shake off a niggling annoyance towards him.

    "Didn''t that crafty fox im he was his equal? Where''d he dash off to?" The Phoenix Empress wondered, eyes darting about the crowd, but it was like finding a needle in a haystack.

    She was dying to ask Moon Fairy, "So, the Primeval Demon Hell gets the short straw, and we''re supposed to be on the same level? How''s that fair?"

    But at that moment, a chill would run down her spine, a gut feeling of that she had touched on a frightening revtion.

    "Exile Yun..." the Phoenix Empress muttered. Her gazended on Yun Xiao as he gathered up all the Trigrams tokens and turned to Mo Jianzhi and the other three delegates.

    "I''ve rounded up all the Trigrams. All the enemies are dead. Half an hour is also almost up. How about we turn off the formation and start wrapping up the Nine Hells Conquest sh?"

    "The Sword Ruins wish for Exile Yun to take the reins and be the next Nine Hells Conqueror," Mu Tianjian dered, his hand thoughtfully stroking his beard.

    "The Reverie Abyss is in full support of Exile Yun," the Siren Empress announced.

    "Let''s deactivate the formation ahead of time," the Netherworld Emperor added.

    The Immortal Asylum, just referees in this grand affair, never trulymanded respect. But now, as the Nine Hells bent the knee to Yun Xiao, all eyes were on their next move.

    What would the Immortal Asylum decide? The answer was key!

 Chapter 360: Getting Antsy, Are We?

    Chapter 360: Getting Antsy, Are We?

    "Exile Yun," Mo Jianzhi''s pale face gradually broke into a grin, his eyebrows arching with a spectral lightness. "I''ve no doubts you''re a reincarnated true Immortal. But, I''m sad to say you''ve reallye at a bad time."

    The crowd went still, trying to wrap their heads around his cryptic words.

    "And why''s that?" Yun Xiao had a hunch this trip to the Immortal Asylum wouldn''t be the walk in the park he''d hoped for

    "Because..." Shen Xiaochan''s voice floated like a ghostly melody, "<em>It</em> got locked up here for gobbling up too many Immortals... and, heh, it''s been hankering for a taste of the good old days."

    "<em>It?</em>" The faces of the Phoenix Empress, Mu Tianjian, and others shifted slightly. Initially, they were as clueless as to who <em>it </em>might be referring to.

    But the tremors and roars from the Immortal Asylum sent a shiver down their spines, a prelude to an ill omen.

    "It''s here," Yun Xiao dered, casting a nce over his shoulder. No sooner had he spoken than a chorus of eerieughter, grating like old tree bark rubbing together, filled the air, setting their skins crawling.

    From the shadows crept figures, hunched and ancient, moving with the grotesque grace of nightmares. At a distance, they might be mistaken for a swarm of white roaches, but up close, they revealed themselves as decrepit old men, each a mirror image of the next, with half their teeth missing, hair in disarray, eyes bulging with a sickening excitement, and grins that would make a vulture gag.

    "Old Immortals."

    Recognition dawned on many, though none could have fathomed a thousand of them emerging from the Immortal Asylum.

    "What the hell?"

    "What''s the Immortal Asylum ying at?"

    Confusion reigned among the thousands of spectators outside, a foreboding chill settling in their hearts.

    Then, like a bolt from the blue, Yun Xiao''s icy inquiry cut through the confusion, "Nian, you moved forward the Nine Hells Conquest sh, baiting us into a fratricidal frenzy, all to devour us at your peak, to finally break free from your chains?"

    Thepetition starting ahead of schedule, the Primordial Ruins arriving early? All lies! The bitter truthy bare; the Nian''s gambit was a desperate roll of the dice, a now-or-never plunge at freedom!

    As for the excuse about how all the sect members of the Immortal Asylum had gone away to view the Primordial Ruins, Yun Xiao knew those poor saps had long been turned into meatballs by now.

    In other words, there wasn''t a jailer in sight in the Immortal Asylum, just a beast with half its body squirming out of the mmer!

    As for Mo Jianzhi and the other three, they were likely puppets on strings.

    "Old Immortal is the Nian?!" The Phoenix Empress gasped, her realization sending a chill down the spines of the gathered thousands.

    The Nian had never shown signs of breaking free before. How did such a thing be reality?

    Panic set in as many frightened gazes met the swarm of Old Immortals crawling out of the Immortal Asylum.

    "Well, since we''re all here, hehe," the eerie chorus of identical old timers cackled, their yellowed teeth dripping with spittle as they scrambled towards the crowd like a troop of crazed monkeys.

    In a blink, the deluge of Old Immortals plunged into the masses, their frail bodies hiding monstrous strength. Yun Xiao watched in horror as one crushed a tiger demon''s skull with a p and slurped up its brain like noodle soup!

    The onught of Old Immortals carved a bloody path through the crowd, turning the scene into a grisly rodeo.

    "Fight for your lives!" The cry went up as the spectators snapped out of their daze.

    Sword Cultivator or Inscription Cultivator, Yin Devil or Yang Devil,nd demon or sea demon Everyone felt a chill of terror at the advance of the Old Immortals. Out of the frying pan and into the fire, they quickly banded together, lest they be overrun by their foe.

    "Hold your ground! Don''t panic!"

    "There''s gotta be a catch to its strength; it wouldn''t wait for us to duke it out otherwise!"

    Despite the sudden and ghastly twist, most managed to shake off their initial shock, setting aside their grudges in a bid to survive.

    But it was clear as day!

    These seemingly frail Old Immortals, monstrous in strength and possibly versed in dark arts, left a trail of blood and corpses in their wake. Their ferocious onught sent hearts racing across the audience.

    "We''re in deep water!"

    "We might not make it."

    "If we all bite the dust here, and the Nian breaks free using our carcasses, heaven knows the havoc it''ll wreak on the outside world..."

    The mere thought was enough to paint a bleak picture: the beast''s escape would be nothing short of a nightmare for all living beings.

    In the thick of the fray, with Old Immortals turning the Nine Hells Conquest sh into a butcher''s yground, every soul pinned theirst sliver of hope on Yun Xiao. He stood witness to the carnage, the air thick with the iron scent of blood.

    "If we don''t break free, it''ll ughter those outside first, digest them at leisure, thene for us, and finally, make its grand escape..." Yun Xiao''s brows knitted together as he surveyed the grim scene.

    "We''re rats in a trap with this formation. Divided and conquered, what''s our y?" The Phoenix Empress was beside herself, her demon troops bearing the brunt of the onught, falling like flies.

    The formation, meant to ensure fairness, now served as their prison. The Immortal Asylum was therger cage, the Eight Trigrams formation, the smaller.

    Without breaking the cage, they were on a one-way street to oblivion.

    "Mo Jianzhi and his group can manipte the Eight Trigrams formation and the gates of the Immortal Asylum, which means part of them still ys the jailer. Bluey, break me out; our breach lies with them," Yun Xiao''s voice cut through the chaos, a beacon of cold logic.

    "Hold on," Blue Star interjected suddenly.

    "For what?"

    "Your little fangirl''s about to make the ultimate sacrifice," Blue Star said, gesturing in a different direction.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze followed, and in the blink of an eye, Pale Revenant emerged from nowhere, a silent figure of resolve charging at the Eight Trigrams formation with a do-or-die fervor.

    "What''s she up to?" No sooner had Yun Xiao spoken than Pale Revenant''s form swelled rmingly.

    <em>BOOM! </em>She transformed into a colossal sphere of flesh, a sight that brought to Yun Xiao''s mind the grotesque form of Forbidden Fate, albeit Pale Revenant''s version was slightly less nauseating, more a seafood medley than a mass of decay, likely thanks to Yun Xiao''s purifying touch.

    With a thunderous impact, she hurled herself against the formation''s barrier.

    "Suicidal," Shen Xiaochan scoffed with a cold smirk.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>The ck and white mes of the formationtched onto Pale Revenant, consuming her in a ze that reduced her to ashes amidst her agonized screams.

    Being scorched like this would be a torturous ordeal for anyone, but she seemed to be holding her own against it!

    On the one hand, she had flesh to spare; those ck and white mes started nibbling at the edges, but fully consuming her was going to take a hot minute.

    On the other hand, her ability to regenerate was nothing short of miraculous. The charred bits were sprouting fresh flesh at a rate visible to the naked eye, almost like she was outpacing the mes in a fleshly footrace.

    And then, in the midst of this fiery standoff, a crack split through the center of her fleshy bulwark, cleaving a path straight out of the formation.

    "Immortal Yun, make your break for it!" Pale Revenant''s voice trembled with the agony of the mes, yet it wasced with a steely resolve.

    Yun Xiao, only pausing for the briefest of moments, roared back, "Follow me out!"

    Pale Revenant, tanking the Eight Trigrams formation with nothing but her flesh and blood, tore open a gateway of gore that left the onlookers dumbfounded.

    Legend had it, the sea corpse demon was a symbol of unbridled savagery. Yet here she was, making the ultimate sacrifice for Yun Xiao. In that moment, she was nothing short of a hero in the Nine Hells.

    Any hesitation now would be an insult to the pain she endured for them!

    With a burst of his Sovereign Sword underfoot, Yun Xiao surged through the fleshly fissure and out of the formation in a heartbeat!

    The Phoenix Empress, Sword Warden, and others, their jaws practically on the floor, quickly snapped to their senses, shouting, "Get out, everyone!"

    Staying in the formation meant being picked off by the cmitous beast, one by one. Pale Revenant had just handed them their ticket out.

    "Sea corpse demon!"

    The moment Yun Xiao broke free, Mo Jianzhi and the others let out a roar of rage.

    Clearly, Pale Revenant had thrown a wrench in their master n.

    With a swift stroke of his de, Yun Xiao parried a Flying Sword aimed straight for Pale Revenant. He was stronger now than when he faced off against the Talisman Emperor, but this counterstrike still sent a shiver down his arm, a testament to the ferocity behind the attack.

    "Getting antsy, are we?" Yun Xiao shot back, as Mo Jianzhi, Shen Xiaochan, the Dream Demon, and Kun Jiang, a motley crew of Sword Cultivators, Inscription Cultivators, demons, and devils, lined up before him, ready for the showdown.

    Each of the four delegates'' eyes was a void of white, pupil-less, mirroring the lifeless gaze of a dead fish, with only a boundless intent to kill swirling within.

    "Exile Yun!" The top powerhouses in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm were swift to react, rallying behind Yun Xiao in no time.

    "Go, aid the others," Yun Xiaomanded, his voice cutting through the tumult.

    Those Old Immortals, mere extensions of the Year Beast''s will, required the concerted effort of the Fate Ocean Realm''s finest to stem the tide of carnage and minimize the fallout.

    "Understood!"

    With a final, piercing nce at Mo Jianzhi and his ilk, they plunged into the fray.

    In that moment, the mass of flesh, devoured by the ck and white mes, copsed, leaving behind a small, unscathed fragment that, by Yun Xiao''s side, coalesced into the form of Pale Revenant.

    She was a shadow of her former self, frail and pallid, her eyes dimmed, lips bloodless, her breath as faint as a whisper...

    Yet, when her gaze met Yun Xiao''s, it was filled with undying devotion.

    "Immortal Yun..." Her voice trembled.

    Yun Xiao folded her in his arms, her form as light as parchment.

    "You''ve done well," he said, his voice steady, though his eyes betrayed a hint of moisture. Only he knew the depths of suffering Pale Revenant endured to shatter the Nian''s scheme.

    "It was nothing," Pale Revenant managed a weak smile. "To ease your burden is my reason to be."

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath, then gently said, "Rest now." He entrusted Pale Revenant to Mu Dalong''s care, adding another to his list of charges.

    With the arrival of the Heaven Sanctuary Realm stalwarts, the tide of battle below began to turn.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze then lifted to meet the four ghastly figures, their eyes void white, as his own eyes zed with a determination to end this.

    "They alone can unlock the gates of the Immortal Asylum!" Uncertain of how far the Nian''s breakout had progressed, his immediate concern was safeguarding those who stood by him...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    HIDDEN FINAL BOSS!

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 361: Eternal Sea of Flowers!

    Chapter 361: Eternal Sea of Flowers!

    The moment Yun Xiao locked eyes with the four delegates from the Immortal Asylum, the fight immediately kicked off! One demon and one devil split apart tounch a fierce assault from all directions.

    Leading the charge was Kun Jiang, his approach shadowed by the floating Dream Demon. Meanwhile, Mo Jianzhi and Shen Xiaochan, armed with sword and sigil, nked from the sides.

    Their eyes, cold and lifeless as those of dead fish, regarded Yun Xiao as nothing more than a b of meat ready for the chopping block. Their attack was swift, precise, and ruthless, each move aimed with lethal intent.

    Before their bodies could even reach him, the amalgamation of sword light, sigil inscriptions, demon magic, and devilish blood created a suffocating atmosphere of doom over Yun Xiao.

    This onught forced everyone nearby to be thrown back as if the gates of hell itself had opened upon them.

    Every attack aimed at Yun Xiao targeted his vital organs and etched awork of bloody marks across his skin.

    Clearly, this quartet was a force to be reckoned with, far surpassing the duo of the Talisman Emperor and Wick Devil.

    Once again, Yun Xiao found himself encircled by enemies. Amidst the brutal killing intent, his gaze turned icy, his lips sealed in silence as he dove into the most focused state ofbat.

    This was Yun Xiao at his most formidablea man of few words, whose only response was action.

    Although the Dream Demon and Kun Jiang took positions at the front and above, it was Mo Jianzhi and Shen Xiaochan who reached Yun Xiao first.

    To his left, a sword soul shaped like a gray tower transformed into a Flying Sword, spiraling towards his ear with a piercing shriek.

    All the cultivators in the Immortal Asylum immediately sped their ears in agony, a testament to the devastating power of Mo Jianzhi''s tower-shaped Flying Sword.

    On the right, Shen Xiaochan pped her Dark Devil Sigil onto a fan-shaped magic treasure, from which a grotesque devilish face twisted into being.

    "The Shadow Moth Fan!" a trembling onlooker whispered.

    <em>ROAR! </em>Shen Xiaochan unleashed a ck storm with a fierce wave. This tempest, teeming with countless ck moths enveloped in dark mist and sporting crimson maws, surged towards Yun Xiao like a toxic cloud, nearly reaching his face before he could react.

    But Yun Xiao was unfazed, as the Prison Warden Sigil at his brow buzzed. It transformed into a violet torrent that swept down, incinerating the ck moths upon contact and reducing them to ashes with the ferocity of a scorching sun.

    The violet torrent then converged into Yun Xiao''s palm, morphing into a Runic Umbre that sprung open with a resonant hum.

    In a sh, the world was bathed in a violet glow, and the youth seemed to stand in a divine light, as if an Immortal had descended to earth.

    <em>BOOM!</em> The ck tempest unleashed by the Shadow Moth Fan crashed against the Runic Umbre.

    With a flick of his wrist, Yun Xiao turned the umbre, turning the iing swarm of ck moths into vapor, as if they''d met their doom in a blender, disappearing into a mist of violet and white.

    Yun Xiao, with an umbre in one hand, spun around and unleashed a sh with the other. The Heaven Burial Sword Soul cut through the fabric of space, blooming like a lotus that marked the end, locking the very essence of the universe around him.

    <em>KLANG!</em> The three-foot azure de met Mo Jianzhi''s tower-shaped Flying Sword with precision. The Flying Sword wailed as it was sent skidding across the ground, sparking fiercely. Then, with undiminished force, it turned into a streak of cold light that pierced through several Inscription Cultivators, showing the fierce aftermath of their sh.

    Mo Jianzhi''s attack was too ferocious, and Yun Xiao, with a single sh, couldn''t control its trajectory.

    "Scatter!" Yun Xiao shouted, but before the echo died down, the zombie-like Kun Jiang appeared before him, brandishing two massive weaponsa blood-red axe surrounded by lightning and a ck spiked hammer wreathed in ghostly mes, from which the cries of ghosts and howls of wolves seemed to emanate.

    <em>BOOM!</em> The two weapons, charged with the force of thunder and fire, came crashing down on Yun Xiao like mountains, the very air roaring with their descent.

    In that heart-stopping moment, Yun Xiao was reminded of someone dear to him, a vision of her wielding a giant axe and hammer with a delicate grace that belied the violence of her actionsa fleeting memory amidst the chaos.

    But the deadliest threat was yet toe. As Kun Jiang''s weapons thundered down, the elusive Dream Demon appeared above Yun Xiao. Its baby-like skin melted away, revealing a bat-like monstrosity with eyes like blood-red whirlpools, locking gaze with Yun Xiao.

    "Sleep..." the bat whispered, its wings cupping his face, as a beam of light shot from its swirling eyes straight into Yun Xiao''s.

    "Sleep your mom!" Yun Xiao shouted, unfazed by the supernatural assault, his spirit undimmed by the looming danger.

    <em>Fourth Form, Soulfire Eye!</em>

    Just when Yun Xiao''s eyes were clouded over, a violet pupil burst forth from his forehead like the first ray of dawn through a stormy night.

    The Soulfire Eye''s gaze shot a beam of violet light, striking the Dream Demon square in one of its ghastly eyes. The demon howled in agony, its face a twisted mask of pain as it clutched its bleeding eye, wings pping in a futile attempt to shield itself.

    With a fierce thrust, Yun Xiao''s de, a bolt of azure lightning, pierced the demon''s belly and emerged triumphantly through its skull.

    "Oh?" the Dream Demon sneered, even as it was impaled. Its body dissolved into a cloud of ck smoke, escaping the finality of death.

    Yun Xiao had no time to chase shadows; the very moment he skewered the Dream Demon, Kun Jiang''s hammer and battle-axe bore down on him with the wrath of a tempest.

    In the blink of an eye, his Prison Warden Sigil transformed, conjuring a Runic Umbre to shield him once more.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The blood-red thunderous axe shattered the umbre in a deafening explosion.

    "Die!" Kun Jiang roared, his me-wreathed hammer descending with a fury that shook the very air.

    In that heart-stopping moment, Yun Xiao nted his hand firmly against the ground, his left hand swirling to create a vortex, employing the Taiji Sword Art with his bare palm to meet the hammer''s descent.

    His hand, delicate against the brute force of Kun Jiang, seemed too fragile for the task. Yet, a miracle unfolded.

    The fiery hammer halted mid-air, just inches from crushing Yun Xiao, who stood unscathed. The ground beneath him cracked open, fissures sprawling for yards, but his arm remained intact, unharmed.

    Kun Jiang''s savage face froze in disbelief. He had expected his hammer to turn any human to dust, yet here Yun Xiao stood, unmoved.

    "How could his flesh be harder than demons and devils?!" The shock reverberated through the minds of all who witnessed this feat.

    Before the crowd could grasp this reality, Yun Xiao''s eyes, cold as winter frost, seized the moment of Kun Jiang''s astonishment.

    With the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his other hand, he cleaved through the air, unleashing a sword strike with the force of a cataclysm.

    With a resounding snap, Kun Jiang''s brawny arm was severed, blood spraying like a fountain as his fiery hammer thudded to the ground.

    Seizing the moment of weakness, Yun Xiao darted forward, a blur of white, and with a flourish of his de, the azure Sword Soul blossomed into a sea of radiant sword flowers.

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG!</em> Each strike was a bone-shattering symphony. To the onlookers, it appeared as though dozens of crimson blossoms had suddenly bloomed across Kun Jiang''s body, each gash a petal in this macabre garden.

    With a final metallic ring, Yun Xiao sheathed his sword, streaking past like a beam of light.

    <em>THUD!</em> Kun Jiang''s towering frame crumpled to its knees.

    Apart from the initial dismemberment, there were no other grotesque wounds on him, just the delicate imprint of a thousand blood-red sword marks. Each was a macabre tattoo adorning his flesh, even decorating the orbs of his eyes with floral patterns.

    To the untrained eye, such injuries might not seem lethal. Yet, Kun Jiang was undeniably dead, his body devoid of life, his usually cold gaze now empty.

    "Eternal Sea of Flowers..." The Sword Warden turned to witness the scene, his face etched with astonishment. "This is the most elusive strike from the Ancestral Sword Tomb, the very essence of the Eternal Sword Prison''s namesake. It may look like mere surface wounds on Kun Jiang, but internally, he''s been pierced countless times!"

 Chapter 362: Crimson Haired Old Immortal!

    Chapter 362: Crimson Haired Old Immortal!

    In the midst of the fray, the Sword Cultivators who remained knew well the splendor of the legendary strike.

    With a swing of the sword, blood blossomed into a sea of flowers!

    "Exile Yun!!" Facing the brutal onught of the four delegates from the Immortal Asylum, Yun Xiao stood firm against the lethal dangers, wounding the Dream Demon and neutralizing Kun Jiang...

    This undoubtedly bolstered the spirits of the powerhouses from the Nine Hells! Initially, they feared the monstrous Nian, but now they held onto a semnce of belief.

    "Kun Jiang might have fallen, but it''s not the end!" No sooner had the Sword Warden solemnly dered this than Yun Xiao was once again engulfed in a fierce battle!

    Witnessing Kun Jiang''s demise, the remaining three delegates from the Immortal Asylum were thrown into a frenzy! Silent they remained, yet their eyes zed red like wild beasts. Having lost all sense of self, they then let out deep, animalistic roars.

    "Beast, have youpletely dominated them?" Yun Xiao suddenly looked up, his gaze piercing the amalgam of one demon and two humans before him. He was speaking to the Nian!

    Before the echo of his words faded, the Dream Demon, Mo Jianzhi, and Shen Xiaochan charged once more. They knew only brutality, devoid of humanity.

    Gritting his teeth, Yun Xiao transformed into a white blur, plunging forward to sh with them once again!

    Kun Jiang had been their vanguard, their shield! Without him, only Mo Jianzhi stood at the forefront, meeting Yun Xiao in a head-on collision!

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    <em>KLANG! </em>After a rapid exchange of four blows, Mo Jianzhi, despite his superior sacred power,cked Yun Xiao''s visceralbat strength and was pressed to the ground by a single stroke!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Had it not been for Shen Xiaochan and the Dream Demon, Yun Xiao would have in him!

    "On yourst legs, and still you hinder me?" Yun Xiao spun around abruptly, his left hand casting zing Dragon Blood Boil with the Prison Warden Sigil upon Shen Xiaochan, while his right hand transformed the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into a Flying Sword!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The Flying Sword pierced through the air in an instant, striking the Dream Demon''s left eye and prating its brain!

    "GYAAAAAH!" The Dream Demon, clutching its eye, screamed in agony!

    This time, it didn''t disperse into ck mist but suffered a grievous fate.

    "That''s your weak point!" Yun Xiao, with a face as unreadable as a poker, reversed the flight of his Flying Sword, piercing the Dream Demon''s other eye with the speed of lightning.

    "You''re doomed anyway..." Even with swords impaling its eyes, the Dream Demonughed viciously, its body burning up rapidly, dying a gruesome death on the spot.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In the next instant, Shen Xiaochan''s Dark Devil Sigil wrapped around Yun Xiao, releasing countless evil spirits from its runic inscriptions, gnawing at his flesh and blood.

    This was exactly how Fu Liuli met her end!

    Mo Jianzhi, with eyes bleeding, suddenly erupted in fury, his sword heavy, shing down towards Yun Xiao''s head with the weight of a thousand pounds!

    "Don''t you see? You''ve lost," Yun Xiao turned, his voice cold as ice. It must be said, this quartet''s ferocity was lethal, the likes of which he had scarcely encountered before. But this was also him at his most formidable!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The nine-headed Prison Warden Dragon roared from his body, tearing into the Dark Devil Sigil. The nine dragon heads shredded it to pieces on the spot!

    The scene resembled a vampire sinking its teeth into a mortal''s neck, greedily drawing blood!

    The Dark Devil Sigil trembled and wailed, while Shen Xiaochan''s face turned ashen, spewing ck blood, her visage cracking apart.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Mo Jianzhi''s towering strike, though imposing, merely caused Yun Xiao''s garments to flutter wildly.

    Yun Xiao''s icy gaze locked onto the descending de! As the Prison Warden Sigil tore through the Dark Devil Sigil, he grasped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and thrust it upwards with a mighty heave!

    In his fused state, Yun Xiao''s sword was at its most potent! For it harnessed the Divine Destion Physique''s raw power, bestowed by Moon Fairy.

    <em>WHOOM! </em>His strike tore through space, the howl of death echoing as if the Divine Pir of the Divine Continent were reborn!

    The slender Heaven Burial Sword Soul met the tower-like de!

    Mo Jianzhi screamed in agony, sent flying backward several hundred meters, crashing into a wall with his skull cracking open!

    Yun Xiao''s strike was a visual spectacle of raw power, an explosive feast for the eyes!

    Shen Xiaochan''s eyes, as red as a setting sun, suddenly zed over, staring nkly at Yun Xiao before her.

    "You were a goner from the start, no need to cling to the living world." Yun Xiao, with his Sovereign Sword,unched into Myriad Swords Traversing the Ocean, striking her squarely in the face!

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>As the sword''s tip swept past, Shen Xiaochan was left headless, her body stumbling and crashing to the ground.

    Only Mo Jianzhi remained!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiaonded, grabbed Mo Jianzhi by the cor, and hoisted him up.

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    The fellow''s Sword Soul shattered, spirit broken, barely hanging by a thread, his eyes filled with blood, death knocking at his door. Yet, he wasughing!

    "You reincarnated runt, you''re somewhat amusing, what a pity," Mo Jianzhi''s voice sounded strange. Clearly, these weren''t his words but those of the Nian.

    "Pity your granddad." Yun Xiao pped him across the face, Mo Jianzhi''s cheek swelling red but his grin growing more ferocious.

    "Killing a few nobodies got you all puffed up, huh? Seems like in your past life, you were just a minor Immortal foot soldier," Mo Jianzhi scoffed wildly. After hisugh, he gave Yun Xiao a mocking nce. "I''ll take care of you myself now."

    Just as these words fell, Yun Xiao felt a chill run down his spine. He spun around abruptly! His gaze swept past the battlefield where the powerhouses of the Nine Hells shed with the thousands of Old Immortals,nding on a deep, mist-shrouded corridor.

    Through the dense fog, the sound of a giant beast''s movements and breaths echoed!

    Each of its steps caused the ground of the Immortal Asylum to quake, each breath roaring like thunderstorms...

    Yun Xiao''s brow furrowed! He had expected a 100-meter-tall beast to emerge, but to his surprise... it was an Old Immortal with crimson eyes and hair!

    Indeed, it was this red-haired Old Immortal whose breaths thundered and steps quaked the earth!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Countless fissures spread from his feet, reaching right up to Yun Xiao.

    A terrifying and deadly aura swept across the field, sending shivers down everyone''s spines!

    Already, the 10,000 cultivators from the Nine Hells struggled against the onught of the Old Immortals, and now an unknown formidable foe had joined...

    "Run! This body houses the strongest part of its escaping form," Blue Star suddenly warned with grave seriousness.

    "I can''t beat it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I''ll beat <em>you</em>, if you don''t run your ass away right now!" Blue Star retorted, exasperated.

    Yun Xiao was a man grounded in reality. If Blue Star said it couldn''t be done, then the challenge was indeed beyond reach.

    "The real issue is, with everyone still trapped in the Immortal Asylum, I can''t just run away on my own..."

    That was the crux of the matter.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The red-haired Old Immortal locked onto Yun Xiao, crossing the heavens in a sh, hurtling towards him as a scarletet.

    "Mo Jianzhi!" Yun Xiao''s heart raced, the Soulfire Eye at his brow split open, unleashing the soul dominating st directly at the recently defeated Mo Jianzhi.

    Once, this move had allowed him to dominate the venerable Overseer Sikong, and now it was employed against a Sword Cultivator whose spirit was being controlled and who was on death''s doorstep!

    Beneath the onught of the soul, Mo Jianzhi''s crimson eyes quivered!

    In that moment, like Shen Xiaochan before him, his eyes reflected aplex mix of fleeting life and regret.

    "The Nian aims to ughter all in the Nine Hells, to break freepletely. You must open the gates and let everyone out!" Yun Xiao, gripping his face, urged with desperate intensity.

    "The Nian..." Mo Jianzhi trembled all over.

    "Open!" Yun Xiao, unsure of what mechanisms controlled the Immortal Asylum, could only rely on him; there was no time to lose.

    "You..." Mo Jianzhi gave Yun Xiao a profound look, fumbling in his Bag of Holding to produce an ordinary-looking jade pir.

    This jade pir, divided into eighteen segments, mirrored the eighteen floors of the Immortal Asylum!

    With hisst ounce of strength, Mo Jianzhi pressed a white spot on the first segment, causing it to glow and disy the character "Open."

    "Protect... themon folk..." His eyes trembling, Mo Jianzhi looked at Yun Xiao, uttering his final words before his hand went limp.

    <em>BOOM! </em>At his death, the Immortal Asylum shook violently, and the Eight Trigrams gates finally swung open, letting in the light from outside.

    "Everyone, out!" Yun Xiao stood up.

    After shouting thismand, he gritted his teeth, and instead of fleeing, he charged towards the red-haired Old Immortal!

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    "Have you lost your mind? I told you to run, not fight!" Blue Star was stunned.

    ..." Yun Xiao didn''t respond. After all, the path he chose to cultivate was never about ying it safe. It was about a will that pierced the heavens, teeth clenched, fighting to the bitter end...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 363: Initial Yun, Drift Immortal

    Chapter 363: Initial Yun, Drift Immortal

    The gates to the Immortal Asylum swung wide open, and what a sight it was! Every powerhouse from the Nine Hells was getting a thrashing from the Old Immortals.

    With the gates ajar, hope peeked through like the first light of dawn, promising a sliver of escape. Humans, demons, and devils threw caution to the wind and made a break for it.

    Ten days in that godforsaken Immortal Asylum, a ce so oppressive it could drive a saint to madness, had everyone on theirst nerve.

    "Move it, move it!"

    "That Nian can only break free if it eats all of us! Don''t let that happen!"

    No one, especially the losers of thepetition, had any fight left in them. Survival was the name of the game.

    And so, a mad dash ensued, with thousandshumans, demons, and devils aliketripping over each other to get out.

    "Exile Yun!"

    The Sword Warden, Siren Empress, Netherworld Emperor, and Phoenix Empress also wished to run. However, their hearts shook with anxiety when they saw Yun Xiao turn back around and square off against the fearsome, red-haired Old Immortal all by himself.

    "Get out!" Yun Xiao barked, without so much as a backward nce. His word wasw.

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    "Yes!" Even the Phoenix Empress, with her high and mighty hair, couldn''t help but admire him at this moment. He was the very picture of a sovereign of the entire Nine Hells, stepping forward to protect his people.

    Danger loomed, and there stood Yun Xiao, ready to shoulder it all by himself.

    Mu Tianjian, the Phoenix Empress, and the others didn''t immediately flee away. No, they rallied their forces, facing down the onught of the Old Immortals with gritted teeth, retreating step by bloody step until they''d all finally escaped.

    Even the Phoenix Empress was drenched in blood, her majestic azure feathers plucked away by those relentless Old Immortals, a testament to their terrifying might.

    The peak forces of the Nine Hells, cut down by half at Yun Xiao''s hand, had barely held their own against the Old Immortals. It was a grim retreat, marked by the fallen.

    "Thank heavens for Pale Revenant''s swift actions with the Eight Trigrams formation, and for Yun Xiao''s timely opening of the Immortal Asylum," the Sword Warden said, his gaze sweeping over the countless fallen.

    He knew all too well that if not for those two strokes of luck, within a quarter hour, all of the spectators would''ve been goners, and then it would''ve been curtains for those holed up in the Eight Trigrams formation too.

    Despite the luck, in just a short span, nearly 1,000 humans, demons, and devils were torn to shreds by those Old Immortals. With their hunched backs, hands and feet scraping the ground, they tore through anyone in front of them and started feasting on their innards right then and there, reveling in the bloodbath with a grotesque glee.

    "Humans are delicious! Demons and devils, not so much," the Old Immortals cackled, faces smeared with blood, hardly worse for wear despite the carnage they wrought.

    Some, even bisected, would crawl back into the fray, a sight so ghastly it sent shivers down the spines of the powerhouses of the Nine Hells.

    And there was Yun Xiao, charging against the tide, plunging into the midst of the Old Immortals. His act was nothing short of heroic, enough to bring a tear to the eye of demon and devil alike.

    "I always thought Exile Yun was a selfish brute, but to think he''d draw the Nian''s attention away to give us a shot at escape," an Inscription Cultivator mused, visibly moved.

    "Oh, cut the nonsense! You guys pissed him off first. Of course, he''d give no quarter. What''s this about being a selfish brute?" a Sword Cultivator retorted. Their bickering was a sign of safety, the worst was behind them.

    Seeing Yun Xiao dive into certain doom forced even his rivals to see him in a new light. But a change of heart did little against impending doom.

    With a thunderous boom, the red-haired Old Immortal didn''t sic the horde on Yun Xiao but let them chase down the escapees, their manicughter echoing as they stormed past, leaving a rain of corpses in their wake.

    Then, with a ground-shaking thud, the red-haired menacended before Yun Xiao, his fiery locks and bloodshot eyes wild, a dark red tongue lolling out like some feral beast, a far cry from the cunning of demons or the intelligence of devils.

    "Ever heard of me, little Immortal?" he taunted with a grin.

    "Can''t say that I have," Yun Xiao replied, his grip tight on his de, his gaze icy. If the beast was willing to parley, he''d take the moment''s respite.

    After all, every bit of time would allow more and more people to escape the gates of the Immortal Asylum.

    "So, you haven''t? No matter, won''t stop you from making a fine meal." The red-haired Old Immortal grinned, a sinister smile that could curdle milk.

    Then, quick as a sh, he was right in Yun Xiao''s face, a blur of red afterimages trailing behind him like the tail of aet.

    This wasn''t about fancy moves; it was raw power, pure and simple, the kind that made the air crackle and pop.

    With a thunderous p, he swung at Yun Xiao, the air exploding with the force of it.

    Yun Xiao, not one to be outdone, pulled out all the stops. His left hand summoned the Prison Warden Sigil, twisting it into a dragon that coiled and roared, unleashing a maelstrom of techniques meant to fend off this ferocious swipe.

    His right hand thrust forward the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, swirling with an array of demon magic that turned the air into a storm of azure sword energy.

    "Huh?" Yun Xiao, usually quick on the draw, found himself outpaced, the Old Immortal''s brute force smashing through his defenses like a wrecking ball through paper.

    Before Yun Xiao''s sword could even find its mark, that devastating palm had already made contact with his chest, shattering the protective Life Sigil and sending him flying like a shooting star, straight into the Immortal Asylum''s ceiling.

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    With a sickening crunch, his chest caved in, and a gush of dark blood followed.

    "Damn, that really packed a punch!" Yun Xiao muttered. He''d never taken such a beating ever since being reborn as the Creator Immortal. Bloodshot eyes nearly burst from their sockets, and his chest screamed in agony.

    Fortunately, the Prison Warden Sigil took the brunt of the impact, or his insides might''ve been history.

    The Divine Destion Physique also did its job, reinforcing his fleshly body.

    "Still standing? Not bad, not even an infinitesimal fraction of my peak strength, but for a reincarnated soul, you''re pretty sturdy." The Old Immortal chuckled, almost impressed.

    The red-haired Old Immortal wasn''t one for speedy speeches, but his strikes were a different story, lethal and lightning-fast. Mid-sentence, he was upon Yun Xiao again, palm aimed for the crown of his head, a hit that promised nothing less than a grisly end.

    But in that hair-raising moment, a burst of fiery red and blue me shot from Yun Xiao''s chest, engulfing the old man''s hand.

    The Old Immortal recoiled with a howl, his hand reduced to bones by the inferno.

    "What in the world do you have on you?" he roared, his human face morphing into a monstrous visage, a mix of lion, tiger, and leopard, all ferocity and fury.

    "Got your daddy right here!" Yun Xiao shot back.

    Each narrow escape meant more folks got out of this hellhole. Even if it cost him millions in Immortal Jades, turning Blue Star and Red Moon into a luxury methrower was worth it.

    After all, protection fees could always be levied again.

    It dawned on Yun Xiao that he was outmatched. Tangling with this ancient beast was a death wish. So, he morphed his Sword Soul into a six-foot Sovereign Sword and made a break for it, riding the azure de like a surfboard on a wave.

    "Now''s the time to put those sword riding skills to the test," he mused, his blood pumping with excitement. If he could outmaneuver this fiery fiend today, what couldn''t he conquer?

    "Lead with one, trail with another!" Yun Xiao dered, ncing back to see the Old Immortal engulfed in ck mes, barreling towards him like a dark whirlwind.

    "Fast as lightning!"

    <em>VROOOOM! </em>The azure Sovereign Sword shot forward.

    Myriad Swords Ocean Traversal mightck in lethality, but it was a masterss in speed and agility.

    Yun Xiao, his hair billowing, d in white, became a blur of motion, his figure multiplying, a thousand images weaving through the air, elusive as a mirage.

    "Little Immortal foot soldier, such tender meat!" The red-haired Old Immortal, his temper red by Yun Xiao''s taunts, chased furiously.

    Straight-line speed-wise, the old man was even swifter than Yun Xiao on his Sovereign Sword.

    "Great," Yun Xiao muttered under his breath, popping a Heavenly Dao Sarira into his mouth to boost his speed.

    "The Immortal Asylum''s battlefield is shaped like an octagon. I''ve got to keep turning sharp corners!"

    Yun Xiao felt like he had a gaping maw breathing down his neck, one slip in his aerial acrobatics, and he''d be gobbled up, sword and all.

    "Here ites!"

    <em>VROOM! VROOM! </em>Sensing the ancient''s imminent pounce, Yun Xiao dipped low and swerved sharply, his Sovereign Sword skimming like a stone across water.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Old Immortal crashed into the wall of the Immortal Asylum, carving out a crater several hundred meters across. The collision left him bloodied, cracked skull and all.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but throw back a taunt over his shoulder. "Beasts will be beasts. With such meager skills, have you turned into livestock after all these years in chains?"

    "Livestock!" That word had the Old Immortal seething with rage, the ones below joining in on the uproar.

    "Exile Yun..." The Phoenix Empress and the rest were dumbstruck. Just moments ago, they were pale with fear for Yun Xiao''s close calls, and now, here he was, turning the tables, ying matador in this arena.

    "Seize the moment, everyone out!" the Sword Warden bellowed, pumped with adrenaline.

    This spectacle was proof enough that as long as they made it out, Yun Xiao had his escape n.

    Whether Yun Xiao would make it out alive hinged on their retreat speed.

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    Just as the Sword Warden''s voice faded, the Old Immortal yanked his head from the crater.

    Yun Xiao, hovering mid-air with a mocking grin, beckoned the Old Immortal with a crooked finger. "You call me a little Immortal foot soldier? Then you must be an old farm animal. Come on, chase me."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 364: Nine Hells Conqueror! Unrivaled Under the Heavens!

    Chapter 364: Nine Hells Conqueror! Unrivaled Under the Heavens!

    The fiery-eyed Old Immortal, riled beyond measure, didn''t take his wrath out on Yun Xiao but transformed into a streak of red light, diving towards the battlefield below.

    "This is bad!" Yun Xiao''s face paled. Despite his best efforts to stall, the Old Immortal saw right through his weaknesshis deep care for those who loyally followed him.

    Inexplicably, the Old Immortal didn''t strike at the Sword Warden but targeted the Phoenix Empress, perhaps deeming her the strongest among Yun Xiao''s followers.

    The Phoenix Empress, admiring Yun Xiao''s cunning, was caught off guard by the sudden, life-threatening peril.

    "Watch out!" Yun Xiao''s warning cry came just as the ferocious Old Immortal appeared before the Phoenix Empress, his hand chopping down like a de.

    <em>KLANG!</em> An azure Flying Sword shot forth, piercing the palm of the Old Immortal, diverting the deadly blow away from the Phoenix Empress'' head to her wing instead.

    With a crunch, her left wing snapped, blood bursting forth, leaving the once magnificent appendage hanging by mere skin. Transforming back into human form, she crashed to the ground, her left arm clearly broken, hand dripping with blood, her face ashen with pain and shock.

    As the Old Immortal, unfazed by the hole in his palm,ughed menacingly and prepared another strike, the Phoenix Empress trembled, fearing the worst.

    But in that moment of despair, an azure sword and a white silhouette collided with the Old Immortalit was Yun Xiao, who, with his Sovereign Sword, mmed into the old man''s side.

    In a sh akin to titans grappling, a tremendous boom resounded.

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    The Old Immortal with fiery locks was sent reeling, a ghastly hole gored by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul gaping in his side, from which ckened blood and flesh hissed and fizzled away.

    Enraged, he retaliated with a palm that sent Yun Xiao flying, then grasped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, attempting to snap it in twain.

    "Break!" the Old Immortal bellowed, but the strike cost him his palm, severed clean off.

    Meanwhile, the Phoenix Empress, drenched in a cold sweat and wracked with pain, sat dazed on the ground.

    Yun Xiao,nding beside her, offered a hand and hoisted her up. Her eyes, misty and bewildered, locked onto his, tears brimming at the edges.

    "Your gaze..." she murmured, astonished, as Yun Xiao curtly silenced her, inwardly vowing to tread more carefully with Moon Fairy''s empathic abilities.

    After all, women with whom one had shared intimacy often harbored an intrinsic intuition, capable of recognizing the unspoken.

    With a rallying cry, the Phoenix Empress, though initially reluctant to follow Yun Xiao, now summoned her followers with renewed vigor despite her broken arm, leading the escape from the Immortal Asylum.

    With this dy, many had already made their escape.

    "What sword is this?" The Old Immortal, thoroughly shaken, demanded, his eyes bloodshot as he stared at Yun Xiao, who coolly retrieved his three-inch azure de, now returned from its six-foot form, utterly beyond the Old Immortal''s control.

    "A pig-ying sword," Yun Xiao quipped with a smirk, "Everyone''s gone. You''ve lost."

    "Lost? Naive," the Old Immortal sneered.

    Yun Xiao, ncing back, saw that under the protection of Mu Tianjian and others, nearly all the survivors from the Nine Hells had breached the confines of the Immortal Asylum.

    Left alone, Yun Xiao tossed a parting shot over his shoulder, "Enjoy your solitary eternity!"

    And with that, he took to his Sovereign Sword, zing away into the distance. The fiery-maned Old Immortal gave chase in a rage, while a thousand of his clones turned their gaze upon Yun Xiao, all moving to block his path.

    "Why aren''t they running after the others outside?" Yun Xiao muttered as he weaved through them with deft maneuvers. Their attempt to hinder him only served to obstruct the fiery-haired Old Immortal, who, in his fury, shattered his own clones in his path.

    Yun Xiao''s mastery of the Sovereign Sword shone as he darted through, the light of dawn breaking before him. Casting onest indifferent nce back at the Old Immortal, he bid him farewell and burst forth from the Immortal Asylum.

    In that moment of escape, Yun Xiao activated the white jade bead given by Mo Jianzhi, turning the <em>open</em> into <em>close</em>, sealing the Immortal Asylum''s gates and crushing several Old Immortals in the doorway.

    The survivors outside, still reeling, felt a release from their tension as the gates thundered shut. Grateful for their narrow escape, they were overwhelmed by a sense of relief and disbelief at the day''s events.

    Yun Xiao''s feats, from dominating the Nine Hells Conquest sh tobating the Nian, were nothing short of legendary. His daring rescue was profoundly moving.

    "Without Yun Xiao, we''d all be fodder for those beasts," they murmured, shuddering at the thought of the cmity that would have befallen the Nine Hells had the beasts broken free.

    In that moment, even the most skeptical among them, be they Inscription Cultivators or demons, couldn''t help but acknowledge him as their savior.

    "Nine Hells Conqueror! Unrivaled under the heavens! All hail Exile Yun!" they proimed, united in their reverence.

    When even the Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils, freshly smacked by Yun Xiao, willingly hailed his name, it was clear Yun Xiao had the Nine Hells under his thumb, bowing in utter submission.

    His name echoed across the heavens, bringing immense satisfaction to the likes of the Sword Warden, Mu Dalong, and the Netherworld Emperor. And let''s not forget the utterly baffled Phoenix Empress.

    Yet, amidst the widespread relief and jubtion, Yun Xiao couldn''t muster a smile.

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    "Let''s not celebrate just yet," hemanded, and the crowd immediately fell quiet, puzzled looks all around. They couldn''t understand his somber mood.

    After all, hadn''t they just thwarted a massive plot and resealed a monstrous threat? Shouldn''t there be joy?

    Under their watchful eyes, Yun Xiao gazed gravely at the gateway before them. "He called me naive... Could it be that a mere 10,000 souls in the Fate Ocean Realm and above are enough to free him? That can''t be right..."

    The Nian''s rush to push ahead the Nine Hells Conquest sh surely aimed to ensnare them all in one fell swoop. But why then did the Old Immortal with the fiery mane still boast such arrogance, even in defeat?

    As Yun Xiao pondered, the gateway of the Immortal Asylum began to tremble violently.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Cracks spider-webbed across the gate, sending a shiver of fear through everyone. They knew their powers were no match for this barrier, but could the Old Immortal, with his legion of clones, possibly break through?

    "Fall back, spread out," Yun Xiao instructed, his brow furrowed. With his words, the gateway convulsed wildly, the Nian''s earth-shattering roar filled with years of pent-up wrath and fury, like a volcano straining to erupt.

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>The cracks widened, and the gate began to burst apart.

    "Move back!" The crowd''s faces paled as they scrambled back in terror.

    Under their watchful eyes, the gateway could no longer withstand the barrage and shattered into a storm of debris, dust, and smoke billowing into the sky.

    Amidst the haze, the red-haired Old Immortal stood center stage, with a thousand clones hanging around like yful monkeys, all chuckling at the sight of the startled cultivators from the Nine Hells.

    "Naive!" The Old Immortal said cheerily, not bothering to pursue them, but instead turned with his legion back into the shadows of the Immortal Asylum.

    But a broken gate was a broken gate!

    "What''s the meaning of this? The gate''s busted; why isn''t heing after us to finish the job?" Mu Dalong''s face was a picture of confusion.

    "Outside the Immortal Asylum, if they chased, we''d scatter like birds, and they couldn''t kill many of us," Mu Tianjian replied, his brow furrowed deep. "If they were to chase, they''d have done so as soon as we emerged."

    "And that means..." Mu Dalong''s face clouded over as the realization dawned on her.

    "Exactly! If they can break this gate, they can break the others. We can''t encircle them. This way, they can disperse at will, infiltrating the mortal realm to ughter the innocents. With the strength of those clones, if they spread out among the popce, we can''t possibly eliminate them all," the Sword Warden stated gravely.

    "In other words, unable to devour us directly, that beast opts for a secondary n, biding its time to consume themon folk in a war of attrition..."

    Soon, everyone grasped the gravity of the situation.

    "This is the Nian''s backup strategy, forced by our resistance..."

    "Should his clones infiltrate the Nine Hells, it would spell utter disaster for the living!"

    This revtion sent a chill through the spines of the rulers of the Nine Hells, understanding the direness of their predicament.

    "The silver lining," Mu Daxiong muttered, "is that his need to devour suggests his true form is still trapped. What escaped the Immortal Asylum is but a mere fraction, akin to a single limb of the beast..."

    "This is hardlyforting news," the Sword Warden snapped back. "If this <em>limb</em> gets its fill and pries open the Immortal Asylum fully, then it''s curtains for the Nine Hells, utterly andpletely!"

    The mere thought of a cmity beast, shackled for eons, unleashed and ravenous, sent shivers down their spines.

    "Exile Yun!" In this dire situation, the denizens of the Nine Hells, devoid of solutions, pinned their hopes on the young man in white. But deep down, they knew, even if Yun Xiao were a reincarnated true Immortal, the beast before them was a terror that even Immortal feared, let alone a reincarnation.

    They were all too aware of how the red-haired Old Immortal had bested Yun Xiao within the Immortal Asylum; in terms of power, they weren''t even in the same league.

    Amidst the weight of countless expectations, Yun Xiao sighed, "Given the current circumstances, I can''t guarantee sess, but I''ll do all I can."

    "We trust you!" The crowd found sce in hismitment.

    Seeing their support, Yun Xiao dered, "To vanquish the Nian, I''ll need your assistance."

    "We''re at yourmand, Exile Yun!!" they responded.

    "It''s nothing unreasonable." Yun Xiao coughed, facing them with a stern look. "Since you hail me as the Nine Hells Conqueror, by tradition, you, as its pirs, should set an example for all beings."

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    "What do you mean?" they inquired.

    With a grin and a shrug, Yun Xiao announced, "It''s time to pay your taxes."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 365: Symbol of the Primordial Ruins!

    Chapter 365: Symbol of the Primordial Ruins!

    "Pay taxes?" The crowd was utterly gobsmacked when Yun Xiaoid it out so bluntly.

    "Each of you, hand over half of the Immortal Jades in your Bags of Holding, right now," Yun Xiao said, as if he were discussing the weather.

    "Half?" The sheer audacity had the 10,000 humans, demons, and devils stepping back in unison, their faces a picture of bewildered shock.

    "Surely he''s joking..." murmured a few Inscription Cultivators among themselves, their expressions a mix of amusement and disbelief.

    The Yang Devils and resentment demons weren''t looking too pleased either.

    "If it weren''t for Exile Yun here, you''d all be dead meat by now. What good''s your wealth then?" Mu Daxiong sneered, leaving the crowd speechless with his cold logic.

    "There''s no debate here, hand it over." With a sweep of his gaze, Yun Xiao had every head bowed, not out of respect, but resignation. He wasn''t about to waste his breath on these penny-pinchers.

    It''s not like he was the one who let the Nian out of the cage. Now, with the Nine Hells teetering on the brink of disaster, it was Immortal Jades to the rescue!

    Yun Xiao didn''t even need to lift a finger to collect the taxes; there were always those eager to curry favor, ready to do the legwork for him.

    Among the Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils, those who were left were quick to see which way the wind was blowing. They scrambled to serve Yun Xiao, hoping to at least be small fries in his new order.

    So, in less than half an hour, Yun Xiao''s first tax collection was a roaring sess.

    "These folks are the backbone of the Nine Hells, and boy, are they loaded..."

    Aside from a few high and mighty types like the Sword Warden, the Netherworld Emperor, and the Phoenix Empress, the rest coughed up half their Immortal Jades, tallying up to a whopping 500 million!

    And with the death of over 100 figures like the Wick Devil and the Talisman Emperor, their wealth now lined Yun Xiao''s pockets, pushing his Immortal Jade count into the billions!

    In the Nine Hells, where themon folk still traded in Saint Stones, and only those in the Dao Heart Realm dealt in Immortal Jades, Yun Xiao had pretty much cornered the market. His Bag of Holding, now several times heavier, bulged with a wealth that sent Blue Star and Red Moon straight to cloud nine.

    "We''re rich! Filthy rich!" The excitement was palpable, with his trusty beast hopping around him, its four eyes gleaming with delight.

    With this windfall, the losses in the Immortal Asylum were more thanpensated for; they were making a profit.

    "Now, I truly hold the Nine Hells in the palm of my hand!"

    That''s what you called a true Nine Hells Conqueror!

    But Yun Xiao knew, themon folk and the armies of the other eight hells, still blissfully unaware of the upheaval in the Nine Hells, had yet to hear the news of his newfound dominion.

    For instance, ces like the Cmity Seal Purgatory were probably still holding out for their Talisman Emperor to return in triumph...

    Yun Xiao, however, wasn''t about to let the higher-ups and themon folk of the Nine Hells, along with their armies, remain disconnected. So, he made a new decision.

    "All of you below the Perfect Fate Ocean Realm, step forward," Yun Xiaomanded with a gravity that silenced the crowd.

    "Yes..." came the hesitant response.

    About two-thirds of the assembly, a motley crew of humans, devils, and demons, shuffled forward.

    Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils included, they all fell in line.

    "Your task is to return to your respective hells, ensure stability, and recount everything that transpired in the Immortal Asylum. Lead your people to revere me as their guide in our united stand against the Nian," Yun Xiao dered with a stern voice.

    The armies of the Cmity Seal Purgatory and Rising Sun Inferno were likely still waiting to take down the Sword Ruins.

    Yun Xiao needed them to understand that internal strife was a thing of the past!

    On one hand, he demanded their allegiance.

    On the other, he sought their eptance of his reign.

    Hearing Yun Xiao''s decree, the crowd, ranging from Early to Late stages of the Fate Ocean Realm, exchanged nces. Relieved they weren''t part of the fray against the Nian, they felt a stroke of luck.

    But Yun Xiao quickly doused their relief with a reality check, stating, "If we fail to hold our ground here, the cities where our people gather will be the Nian''s prime targets. Your role in leading the masses to safety in these cities is equally critical."

    "Understood!" came the varied responses, some charged with fervor, others merely mouthing their assent, showing a range ofmitment.

    Yun Xiao knew better than to rely on the defeated ranks of Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils.

    Getting the word out about their defeat in the Immortal Asylum to their respective armies and themon folk would be achievement enough!

    So, Yun Xiao called out a few more names.

    Five Overseers from the Sword Ruins, five high-ranking Yin Devils in the Fate Ocean Realm, and ten merfolk from the Reverie Abyss appeared before him.

    "Together with them, head to the Cmity Seal Purgatory, Rising Sun Inferno, and the two great oceanic hells. Maintain control. Should anyone defy my orders, you have my permission to act first and reportter!"

    "Yes!" The response was solemn, their respect for Yun Xiao palpable. His words stirred a ripple among the Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils.

    But with the Heaven Sanctuary Realm or above cultivators of their hells all but wiped out, what choice did they have?

    With the Nian crisis looming, no one could escape the Nine Hells; they had no choice but toply.

    "Depart!" With Yun Xiao''smand, two-thirds of the assembly dispersed.

    "For the Sword Ruins, the news they''re bringing back is a mix of good and bad," the Sword Warden mused, a hint of wistfulness in his tone.

    The good news was like a fresh breeze through an open window. Yun Xiao had triumphed gloriously, uniting the Nine Hells under his banner. But the bad news followed like a storm right on its heels. The Nian was causing chaos, and themon folk were dangling by a thread!

    As the word spread, these twin tidings swept through the Nine Hells like wildfire, stirring up a buzz among countless souls.

    For the Sword Cultivators, the Yin Devils, and merfolk, it was a mix of sweet and soura victory here, a looming disaster there.

    But for the Inscription Cultivators, Yang Devils, resentment demons, and sea dragons, it was like getting hit by a one-two punch of pure dread, leaving them battered and bruised.

    "The Talisman Emperors and Overseers, all taken down by Exile Yun!"

    "And now, with the Nian on a rampage, it looks like we''re next on the chopping block..."

    A wave of despair was ready to engulf the Nine Hells, nketing it in gloom.

    In this dire hour, the only sliver of hope was to bow to Yun Xiao, clinging to the slim chance that he might pull them back from the brink of extinction.

    Yun Xiao had seen this shift in the windsing from miles away.

    There he was, just outside the Immortal Asylum, with over 3,000 cultivators who had reached the Perfect Fate Ocean Realm or above at his beck and call.

    He had them scatter, hidden in the nooks and crannies of the wilderness, all ears for hismand.

    Under a moss-covered rock, Yun Xiao was joined by two figuresone, a ghostly pale and frail specter; the other, the Phoenix Empress, her arm still hanging limp.

    Compared to Pale Revenant, the Phoenix Empress was in a sorrier state,cking that nifty trick of cheating death.

    "nning to head back to the sea hells?" Yun Xiao asked Pale Revenant

    "The sea''s teeming with life, should speed up my recovery," Pale Revenant replied softly, eyes downcast. "I''ll be back before you know it."

    "I''ll be waiting," Yun Xiao said, with a nod.

    "Understood." After Pale Revenant nodded, she hopped barefoot into a river leading to the sea not far away, vanishing in the blink of an eye.

    "Little fox!" The Phoenix Empress, finding herself alone, red at him and fumed, "Well, aren''t you a sly one? ying dual roles and leading everyone on a merry dance, you even fooled me."

    "Cut the nonsense," Yun Xiao said, bending down to examine her arm. "Have you applied any medicine? How does it feel?"

    "I did, but us demons put all our stock in physical strength. Once the bone and sinew are injured, it''s not so easy to heal." The Phoenix Empress bit her lip and shot him a look. "All because you couldn''t protect me. You''re not up to snuff."

    "Then you should head back to the Primeval Demon Hell to rest," Yun Xiao said seriously, letting go of her arm.

    "No," she turned away.

    "Staying here injured will only cause me trouble," Yun Xiao stated.

    "So cold-hearted, to use me up and then want to send me away?" the Phoenix Empress raised an eyebrow.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t be bothered to argue, dismissing her with, "Suit yourself, you silly chicken."

    "???"

    This nickname was almost too much for the Phoenix Empress.

    "I find you''re much bolder without your disguise. Tell me, how many have you fooled with that fox persona, pretending to be your own enemy?" the Phoenix Empress asked, biting her lip.

    "Too many to count," Yun Xiao replied.

    "You... heartbreaker!" The Phoenix Empress was livid.

    Yun Xiao ignored her tantrum, turning serious. "You know this secret must stay with you alone."

    "Hmph!" She red at him. After a long stare-down, she sighed and relented, "You may look more dashing this way, but I miss the worldly air of the little fox. Give him back to me."

    "Alright." Yun Xiao was nning to continue his separate training among humans, demons, and devils anyway. The War Princess wouldn''tst much longer without support.

    Now, with <em>funds</em> aplenty, it was the perfect time for a breakthrough.

    "Huh?" Just as Yun Xiao was about to revert to his fox guise for her, a disturbance suddenly came from above.

    The suddenmotion had Yun Xiao''s instincts screaming: trouble.

    "Be on guard!" His voice sliced through the air, icy and sharp.

    Buzzing filled the air as the hidden powerhouses of the Nine Hells, alerted by his cry, converged towards Yun Xiao''s position, ready for whatever was about to unfold.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Out of the blue, amidst the serene blue skies and fluffy white clouds of noon, an explosion sounded, breaking the calm.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see the clouds churn and twist, forming two concentric ringsa spectacle that defied nature.

    "These clouds wouldn''t shape themselves like that without a nudge... someone''s stirring the pot," Yun Xiao thought, his eyes narrowing.

    Just then, three figures emerged at the heart of the smaller ring, their presence alone broadcasting a lethal threat.

    "These folks aren''t from around here," Yun Xiao realized instantly, the air around him growing thick with danger. They seemed as formidable as that fiery-haired Old Immortal.

    "The circr <em>Return</em> symbol... that''s the hallmark of the Primordial Ruins!" The Sword Warden appeared beside Yun Xiao, his voice trembling with a mix of awe and dread.

    As his words hung in the air, the trio descended from the skies, floating above the crowd with an air of superiority that made the toughest of the Nine Hells powerhouses avert their gaze.

    Yun Xiao took them inthree men, likely brothers, given their striking resemnce.

    At the center stood a youth in a tinum robe, his long hair tied back, exuding an aura of unyielding strength. His skin shimmered with a golden sheen, as if cast from gold itself, radiating the vibe of a celestial warrior.

    But what caught Yun Xiao''s attention most were his golden eyes, piercing and keen, as if capable of cutting through the deepest mysteries.

    "He reminds me of an old friend, not a cultivator of the dao but a warrior spirit, taking the martial path like the demons," Yun Xiao mused, puzzled by the resemnce.

    Regardless, the pressure emanating from this golden-eyed youth was undeniable.

    All around Yun Xiao, even the bravest souls bowed their heads under his gaze, overwhelmed by an invisible force that left many sweating and gasping, as if the air itself was being squeezed from their lungs.

 Chapter 366: A Treasured Sword is Sharpened on the Grindstone!

    Chapter 366: A Treasured Sword is Sharpened on the Grindstone!

    The youth with golden eyes was without a doubt the strongest of the bunch!

    Yun Xiao''s gaze, with a flicker of peripheral vision, swept over the two beside him.

    To the golden-eyed youth''s left floated a boy in a silvery white robe, his demeanor clear and handsome, radiating the air of a noble son, pure and refined. Furthermore, his silver pupils added a touch of magnificent elegance.

    What caught Yun Xiao''s attention most was the silver moon sigil etched at the brow, signaling the youth as an Inscription Cultivator!

    On the right stood another, merely a boy of twelve or thirteen, in a ck and white sword robe. Despite his youth, his presence was piercing, with dark eyes hiding a sword''s edge and a face of arrogance. His very being screamed Sword Cultivator!

    "Brothers, each an Inscription Cultivator, a Sword Cultivator, and a Martial Cultivator?"

    Such a trio was a novelty to Yun Xiao.

    The brothers, d in gold, silver, and ck, bore on their chests a circr <em>return </em>character.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The moment they appeared, many eyes were drawn to the symbols on their chests.

    A collective shudder ran through the crowd!

    Led by the Sword Warden and the Netherworld Emperor, all present, as if struck by a sudden faith, knelt to the trio, chanting reverently, "We greet the Primordial Envoys!"

    "Primordial Envoys?" Yun Xiao came to a realization. So, the folks from the Primordial Ruins had arrived. That was unexpected!

    "Could it be they sensed the upheaval of the Nian from afar?" Yun Xiao pondered.

    The Primordial Ruins, a mythical vessel sailing through countless worlds, was revered in the legends of the Nine Hells, with the Immortal Asylum under its dominion.

    "Exile Yun"

    As Yun Xiao mulled over these revtions, the Sword Warden gently nudged his robe, a question in his gaze.

    He was uncertain, in a meeting of an Exiled Sword Immortal and Primordial Envoys, who held the higher esteem?

    "Don''t worry." Yun Xiao smiled lightly.

    Clearly, the trio took note of Yun Xiao''s refusal to kneel.

    "Esteemed Primordial Envoys," Yun Xiao preempted their inquiry, "I am Yun Xiao, recently crowned champion of the Nine Hells Conquest sh, and now the ruler of this realm."

    "You''re quite young," the golden-eyed youth remarked, his voice deep and resonant, like a bell thatmanded attention.

    The golden-eyed youth seemed to carry no airs about him, waving off the others with a gesture that suggested they needn''t kneel.

    "Did the trio of you catch wind of the Nian''s stirrings?" Yun Xiao cut straight to the chase.

    "Indeed. The Primordial Bell tolled, and we were summoned," the golden-eyed youth replied, turning to survey the Immortal Asylum with a calm gaze. "What''s happened here?"

    The crowd exchanged uneasy nces, none daring to speak up.

    Yun Xiao ventured, "My guess? The Immortal Asylum''s been neglected over the years, allowing the Nian to slip parts of itself out of its cage. It''s been devouring cultivators here, masquerading as the asylum''s master, and even kicked off the Nine Hells Conquest sh early, pitting us against each other, all to make its escape easier... Luckily, we caught on and made our exit. But I reckon it''s broken the Asylum''s gates by now, and it might just set its sights on the mortal realm next, bringing cmity to themon folk."

    He wisely omitted any mention of his own hand in vanquishing the Talisman Emperor and the like.

    Before these beings, who tread even higher on the celestialdder, making a show of his own prowess seemed rather pointless.

    If he could direct these Primordial Envoys to handle the Nian, leaving each to their own, all the better.

    "The mortal realm..." The golden-eyed youth''s brow furrowed.

    "Yun Xiao, can you vouch for the truth of your words?" the silver-eyed youth inquired in a melodious tone.

    "They all can bear witness," Yun Xiao gestured towards Mu Tianjian and the others.

    "We all can vouch," the Sword Warden chimed in, noticing Yun Xiao hadn''t unted his status as an Exiled Sword Immortal, and so he followed suit, echoing Yun Xiao''s sentiments.

    With everyone''s confirmation, the golden-eyed youth turned to his silver-eyed brother. "Second Brother, return to the Primordial Ruins at once and report this. This beast is cunning, with clones at y. We''ll need our elders to step in."

    "Understood." The silver-eyed youth nodded.

    "And what shall we do, Big Brother?" The youngest, d in ck, looked around before approaching to ask.

    "Let''s confront the Nian, see what it''s made of," the golden-eyed youth said with a determined look towards the Immortal Asylum.

    "I''m in!" the young boy eximed eagerly.

    "Yuan Jian, don''t be reckless," the golden-eyed youth cautioned sternly.

    "It''s not recklessness," Yuan Jian replied with a serious glint in his eye. "Big Brother, you''ve always said the sword is honed on the grinding stone. I may be young, but without trials, how can I ever fulfill my ambitions or make a name in the way of the sword?"

    "Let Yuan Jian have his way, Big Brother." The silver-eyed youth smiled indulgently at his youngest sibling.

    The golden-eyed youth remained silent, turning to Yun Xiao instead. "I need a guide. You''re it."

    "Sure thing," Yun Xiao nodded, sensing the golden-eyed youth was the decisive, no-nonsense type. With his help, things might just go smoother.

    "Big Brother," Yuan Jian nced at Yun Xiao and made a face.

    "What is it?" the golden-eyed youth inquired.

    "Let''s get a female guide. This''ll bore us to death," Yuan Jian quipped with a mischievous grin.

    "Who''d you fancy as a switch?" The silver-eyed youth lingered, not in a rush to leave, but asking with a chuckle instead.

    Yuan Jian''s gaze meandered through the crowd, eventually settling on the Phoenix Empress, his expression a mix of amusement and curiosity, "I''ll take this bird."

    "A phoenix lineage?" The golden-eyed youth was momentarily taken aback, but soon shook his head, advising Yuan Jian. "She''s a tad old for you, not quite fitting."

    "Big Brother, she''s perfect," Yuan Jian wheedled, tugging at his sleeve in a yful plea.

    "Alright then," the golden-eyed youth, unable to resist his persistence, conceded and turned to the silver-eyedd. "Second brother, would you mind mending the phoenix?"

    "With pleasure." The silver-eyed youth approached the Phoenix Empress, his smile warm as he gently lifted her arm, softly saying, "This might sting a bit, bear with me."

    "Okay" The Phoenix Empress, taken aback by his amiable disposition, murmured in confusion, "My wounds are severe... healing won''t be quick..."

    No sooner had she finished speaking than the silver-eyed youth conjured a Life Sigil, shimmering with silver light, from his forehead.

    "Over 50,000 Runes!"

    A collective gasp rose from the many Inscription Cultivators present, their awe unmistakable.

    The reverence in the eyes of the thousands present deepened at the sight of the youngd, who appeared even younger than Yun Xiao, likely around fifteen.

    "Truly a being from the Primordial Ruins"

    The sight of the silver Life Sigil left the crowd in awe.

    "Is this all it takes to amaze them?" Yuan Jian muffled augh behind his hand.

    "The celestialdder has its highs and lows; born halfway up the mountain, what right do you have to mock those at its base?" the golden-eyed youth scolded with a nce.

    "Got it!" Yuan Jian nodded, a trace of defiance flickering in his eyes.

    As they were speaking, the silver-eyed youth''s Life Sigil affixed itself to the Phoenix Empress''s arm. He took her delicate hand gently, lifting it as silver light cascaded down her limb, enveloping itpletely.

    At first, the pain whitened herplexion, beads of sweat forming on her forehead. But soon, her expression morphed into one of astonished relief, murmuring, "It''s truly healed!"

    "All better?" The silver-eyed youth let go, his smile asking the question.

    "A miracle! My thanks to the Primordial Envoy..." the Phoenix Empress was still a bit dazed.

    "Such are the feats of Immortals!"

    The crowd of humans, devils, and demons around them couldn''t help but marvel.

    Their gaze towards the trio of Primordial Envoys warmed even further.

    Among them, some Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils shot Yun Xiao peculiar looks, clearly itching to <em>spill the beans</em>.

    With these three around, it seemed Yun Xiao''s heroics might no longer be required in the Nine Hells.

    "This scoundrel fleeced us of over 100 million Immortal Jades!"

    The more some thought about it, the angrier they got.

    Then, after bidding farewell to his brothers, the silver-eyed youth ascended, stepping into a moonbeam that whisked him into the sky, disappearing from sight.

    "Birdie, you''reing with us!" Yuan Jian, chuckling, tugged the Phoenix Empress along.

    "I..."

    The youngest brother''s gaze sent a shiver down the Phoenix Empress'' spine.

    She nced at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao, with a smile, said nothing.

    "Primordial Envoys, please." In a huff, the Phoenix Empress led the two remaining envoys into the Immortal Asylum...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 367: Cock Fighting Champion

    Chapter 367: Cock Fighting Champion

    <em>DRIP! DRIP! DRIP! </em>In the depths of the Immortal Asylum, silence reigned supreme, save for the slow drip of the remaining blood stains on the walls.

    Down a long, dark corridor was a group of three people.

    Leading the way was a young man with golden eyes, followed by a 13-year-old Sword Cultivator from the Primordial Ruins, known as Yuan Jian, and the Phoenix Empress trailing behind.

    The Phoenix Empress, draped in a long dress made of azure feathers, was a sight to behold. This dress, a transformation of her own feathers, clung to her skin, entuating her snow-white neck and long legs, exuding an exotic charm.

    Yet, even with her stature in the Nine Hells, she felt a tremor of fear in the presence of these two brothers, wary of making a mistake that might anger the youngd beside her.

    "They said they needed a guide, yet they don''t speak to me?" she mused, casting a worried nce at Yuan Jian from the corner of her eye.

    Being a Hell Warden, her senses were sharp!

    The brothers carried themselves with an air of superiority. Despite the polite facade of the golden-eyed young man, the Phoenix Empress could feel they didn''t regard her as an equal.

    "Big Brother!" Yuan Jian suddenly eximed, "I sense danger ahead. Let''s not proceed."

    The Phoenix Empress was taken aback. Wasn''t it said that a sword''s edge was honed through adversity? Yet, they were retreating at the first sign of it.

    Hearing this, the golden-eyed young man stopped in his tracks, turning to look at Yuan Jian with a hint of resignation, "You''re thinking of <em>cock fighting</em> again, aren''t you?"

    Yuan Jian sheepishly grinned, "Big Brother, it''s all the rage! I must uphold our family''s honor, right?"

    "Frivolity leads to downfall!" the golden-eyed young man chided sternly.

    "Big Brother, it''s not like that at all," Yuan Jian protested earnestly. "Father always said, what''s most important on the path of cultivation? Friends, alliances! Wee from a prominent family; mere solitary cultivation won''t cut it. We must engage in the world, forge alliances with like-minded individuals! Cock fighting may seem trivial, but it''s essentially a social event in the realm of Immortals. Sharing interests with others means mutual support as we grow, preventing exclusion!"

    "Excuses, always excuses," the golden-eyed young man red at him.

    "Big Brother, a good bird is hard to find. Please, indulge me this once," Yuan Jian pleaded, his face alight with anticipation. He was at the age where everything was thrilling.

    The golden-eyed young man pondered for a moment, his reluctance apparent. It was clear he had a soft spot for his younger brother.

    "Finish quickly and don''t dally!" With those words, he vanished into the darkness alone, leaving Yuan Jian and the Phoenix Empress behind.

    Right by the entrance of the Eight Trigrams gateway, where the light from the gate still cast a reassuring glow, they stood in what could be considered a safe spot.

    "Thanks, Big Bro!" Yuan Jian waved cheerily.

    Off to the side, the Phoenix Empress trembled slightly, herplexion pale, "Cock fighting?"

    "Exactly," Yuan Jian turned, grinning at her. "It''s quite the hoot! Each person raises a bird, and they battle it out. The winner takes the pot. Thrilling, isn''t it?"

    The Phoenix Empress''s elegant brows furrowed deeply.

    "So, it''s just like cricket fighting?" Her voice took on a chill.

    "Spot on! What, thought I had my eye on you?" With no elder brother or outsiders to mind, Yuan Jian let loose, his smile widening. "Silly bird, dreaming big dreams, are we? In my eyes, you''re just a fancy cricket. Me, of noble birth, y with you? Hardly."

    Her gaze turned icy, indignation bubbling within. To think she mistook his intentions, forced herself toe here, only to be deemed a cricket?

    Yun Xiao had called her a <em>silly chicken</em> too, but the sting of these words hit differently.

    "Into the cage with you!" Yuan Jian couldn''t be bothered with more talk. A representative of the Primordial Ruins, he had an image to maintain in publicdignified and honorable. But now, with no one around, he dropped the act.

    <em>BOOM! </em>From his hand emerged a birdcage, crafted like golden pirs and etched with runesclearly a top-tier artifact.

    "The Primordial Cage, descend!" With a sneer, he activated the golden Primordial Cage. Like a massive golden palm, it came crashing down on the Phoenix Empress!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>She transformed into her true form, poised to take flight, but the cage''s power, surpassing even the Dragon Wick Seal, caught her off guard.

    <em>BOOM! </em>It pinned her down like a mountain, an unstoppable force imprisoning her.

    <em>FLAP! FLAP! FLAP! </em>Her wings beat against the cage, sparks flying, yet the cage remained unyielding.

    "Not bad, quite fierce! Whether I''ll reign supreme in the cock fighting scene now depends on you." Yuan Jian chuckled heartily, finding the Phoenix Empress''s struggle amusing, the more she fought, the broader his grin.

    "Curse your lineage! If you''re so keen on fighting, why not throw your own punches?" the Phoenix Empress spat, her eyes aze with fury. To be caged and forced to fight as entertainment, it was the ultimate insult to a being of intellect and grace.

    "Us? Fight? Are you touched in the head? We''re all brothers and sisters here, just looking for a bit of fun. Why sour the mood with personal squabbles?"

    Yuan Jian, arms crossed, took on the air of an elder statesman. "Beasts will be beasts. In our esteemed Primordial Ruins, demons are but the lowest of the low, mere ves. What would such a bird like you know of human decency?"

    "Your arrogant prattle only serves to show how small-minded your precious Primordial Ruins really are," the Phoenix Empress retorted with a sneer.

    "That''s where you''re wrong! The Primordial Ruins are a bastion of salvation, extending mercy andpassion to our own. But for the likes of you demonic beasts, it''s kill or be killed. Only a fool talks of magnanimity in such cases."

    "And why not exterminate all the demons and devils outside then?" she challenged.

    At this, Yuan Jian''s smile vanished, reced by a clenched jaw and simmering rage, "Giving you face, was I? Daring to talk back? Fine, let''s see how you like a taste of the <em>warmth </em>from the Primordial Ruins!"

    With that, the golden cage tightened, its bars pressing into her flesh, drawing lines of blood.

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK!</em>

    "My second brother can heal your wounds, so remember, disobedience will only bring more suffering. Death is a luxury you can''t afford," Yuan Jian''s youthful face twisted into a cruel smirk.

    The cage continued its merciless constriction, forcing the Phoenix Empress back into human form.

    But the cage kept shrinking, its golden bars wrapping tightly around her delicate form, entuating her curves in a rather revealing disy.

    "Oh?" Yuan Jian, despite his young age, couldn''t help but be momentarily distracted by the sight. However, he quickly regained hisposure, cursing, "A beast in human guise, a blight upon the eyes, unforgivable!"

    The cage squeezed tighter still, pushing the Phoenix Empress to the brink, her body crisscrossed with bloody marks, her face pale with agony as she red at Yuan Jian in despair and rage.

    "Given in yet? Learned your lesson?" Yuan Jian stepped closer, grabbing her chin with a sneer.

    "To hell with you!" With a defiant spit, the Phoenix Empressnded a glob of saliva right on his face. Her temper was legendary, seldom had she ever been bested.

    "You''re dead!" Yuan Jian never saw iting, her fiery defiance catching him off guard. His mind clouded with rage, the notion of bird fighting forgotten in the heat of the moment.

    With a low growl, he drew forth a ck Sword Soul, its aura surging with power. This Sword Soul was enveloped in 30,000yers of Sword Aura and adorned with seven Sword Rings.

    At its core shone a brilliant white light, a beam that pierced from hilt to tip, rendering the ck Sword Soul luminous.

    That white light, undoubtedly, was the Sword Heart.

    "Despicable demon!" In a swift motion, Yuan Jian transformed the ck Sword Soul into a three-foot-long sword, unleashing a fierce strike aimed straight at the Phoenix Empress''s delicate neck. The move was swift, ruthless, and precise.

    The Phoenix Empress saw her end approaching and was resigned to her fate, her only regret perhaps being unable to glimpse her little fox onest time With a heavy sigh, she braced for the end.

    But in that moment, a piercing sound of a sword cleaving the air filled her ears!

    "What?" Startled, the Phoenix Empress looked up just in time to see a streak of azure light piercing through the darkness, vanishing into the void only to reappear instantly behind Yuan Jian!

    "What?" Yuan Jian spun around, disbelief etched on his face.

    With a sickening sound, his sword-wielding arm exploded in a burst of gore right before the Phoenix Empress'' eyes!

    "Aghhh!" Yuan Jian''s scream was a harrowing blend of pain and shock as he copsed to the ground. His right hand, along with the ck Palm Sword aimed at the Phoenix Empress, was severed, sparing her from harm.

    "My hand!!" Writhing in agony, Yuan Jian rolled on the ground, his eyes wide with shock and face ashen, his body drenched in sweat.

    Yuan Jian was in utter disbelief, his prowess in the way of the sword crippled in an instant, his life''s ambition shattered halfway through. The reality of his situation was too much for his heart to bear.

    "Who did this? Who?!" With a roar of anguish, he scrambled to his feet, withdrawing his Sword Soul with his left hand, and trembling, he turned to face his assant.

    In the dim light of the corridor, a dashing youth in white, holding a three-foot-long azure de, approached Yuan Jian with an unsettling calm, step by steady step.

    "This guy..." The Phoenix Empress, having braced herself for the end, found no desire to prolong her life if it meant being a ything for a brash young master, only to suffer and dieter.

    Yet, she couldn''t help but admire the sheer coolness of that sword strike that severed Yuan Jian''s arm, capturing her heart in the process.

    "It''s you...!!" The sight of Yun Xiao struck Yuan Jian like a bolt from the blue, a tidal wave of rage and resentment crashing within him. A mere mortal from a lesser realm dared to maim him?

    "Yun Xiao, you''vemitted an unforgivable sin. You will suffer a gruesome fate, and all that you hold dear will perish with you!" Yuan Jian spat, seething with fury.

    "Try something original; I''m tired of hearing that line," Yun Xiao retorted, before lunging forward like a white specter.

    Despite his boiling anger, Yuan Jian''s mind was clear: he was young, gravely injured, and no match for the ruthless Yun Xiao. Escape was his only option.

    "Big Brother, save me!" With a shout, he turned and threw a smoke bomb that exploded upon hitting the ground, creating a vast mist that engulfed Yun Xiao and obscured Yuan Jian''s form from view.

    "This is bad..." The Phoenix Empress''s heart sank.

    If Yuan Jian escaped and alerted the golden-eyed youth, the consequences wouldn''t just be dire for them; many others would be doomed as well.

 Chapter 368: Ill be Waiting For You on the 18th Level

    Chapter 368: I''ll be Waiting For You on the 18th Level

    "Why go to such lengths for me, risking offense?" the Phoenix Empress asked. The notion that many might die for her seemed a folly too grand.

    In her moment of sorrow, Yun Xiao''s eyesor rather the very eye of the Prison Warden Sigil, red open amidst the mists.

    "Found you," he dered, his gaze piercing through the gloom to lock onto a shadowy figure.

    With a buzz, Yun Xiao, cold and detached, rode his Sovereign Sword with lethal precision, closing in on the shadow''s trail.

    The shadow, wielding a sword of its own, fled in panic and rage, unprepared for the audacity of those from this world.

    "Little brother," a chilling voice called from behind.

    Yuan Jian felt a shiver as darkness engulfed him. Whirling around, he was met with a massive azure de thrust before him, its tip piercing his chest and pinning him against the wall.

    "You! You!" Yuan Jian trembled, gazing at the gaping wound, his body convulsing.

    Yun Xiao leapt down, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul transforming into a gleaming azure edge.

    As Yuan Jian''s face twisted in terror, about to scream, Yun Xiao''s de plunged into his open mouth, emerging from the back of his skull, nailing the boy to the Immortal Asylum''s wall.

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    Yuan Jian''s limbs twitched before going limp.

    "My god," the Phoenix Empress cursed under her breath, turning to witness this chilling scene.

    With Yuan Jian''s death, the golden cage binding her finally loosened. Despite her freedom, she was drenched in sweat.

    "Yun Xiao, you cunning fox..." In a moment straight out of a tall tale, she found herself at a loss for words.

    With a sound as final as a door mming shut, she saw Yun Xiao, fresh from dispatching Yuan Jian, not resting on hisurels but rather, skewering the defeated''s spine with his Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    The Phoenix Empress, dumbstruck, watched as darkyers of Sword Aura gathered on the de morphed into Yun Xiao''s own Sword Aura. "He''s devouring another''s Sword Soul..." she realized, her skin crawling at the thought.

    Then, as if performing a magician''s trick, Yun Xiao plucked several ck and white meridians from Yuan Jian, weaving them into his own being with a finesse that turned the stomach.

    "What the hell is this?" the Phoenix Empress'' voice quivered with fear and confusion.

    "Devil Breaker Meridians, with a touch of holy attribute for vor, useful for refining and improving the purity of my sacred power. It''ll beef up the Nine Heavens Star Meridians quite nicely," Yun Xiao exined, as if discussing the weather.

    "What? What?" The Phoenix Empress was hopelessly lost.

    "That''s the point. If you understood, you''d be next on my list," Yun Xiao quipped with a smile that didn''t reach his eyes, a threat hanging in the air. Then, with the ease of a practiced thief, he stripped Yuan Jian of his Bag of Holding and drained him dry of blood.

    With a buzz, what remained of Yuan Jian, now a useless husk, dissolved into ck liquid under the corrosive touch of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, leaving not a trace behind.

    Having tidied up his affairs, Yun Xiao turned to the golden cage and then back to the Phoenix Empress, "Can you walk?"

    "Not on your life..." Truth be told, the Phoenix Empress, fearless in the face of heaven and earth, felt a genuine flicker of fear towards this man.

    "And what would you have me do?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "I... I need you to carry me," she mumbled, her pride taking a nosedive.

    "Your wish is mymand," Yun Xiao responded. With a wave of his hand, a white torrent surged from him, solidifying into a Four-Tailed Demon Fox beside him. In a blink, the creature transformed into a silver-robed figure with fox ears, an enigmatic blend of male and female charm.

    "Well, I''ll be..." The Phoenix Empress slumped to the ground.

    "Only you guessed his true identity, so, you understand the consequences of betrayal, right?" Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy spoke in unison, a chilling harmony.

    "Only a fool would betray a freak of nature like you," the Phoenix Empress quipped, her voice tinged with a mix of awe and apprehension.

    "Come on then," Moon Fairy beckoned, his four fox tails swirling invitingly.

    Without a moment''s hesitation, the Phoenix Empress mbered onto his back, clinging to Moon Fairy''s neck as if her life depended on it. Nestling close, she murmured affectionately, "This little fox is far easier on the eyes. Humans just try too hard."

    Yun Xiao, for his part, couldn''t be bothered with her antics.

    To her, they might be one and the same, but to Yun Xiao, the distinction was clear as day. His body double was just thata double, not a vessel for shared emotions or intimate encounters meant for him alone. The women in his life, he reasoned, wouldn''t take kindly to being approached by a fox, no matter how charming.

    And that suited him just fine. Being Yun Xiao meant juggling two distinct livesa luxury that brought him no small measure of delight.

    With a hum, he led the way, a motley crew of man, fox, and bird navigating the shadows of the Immortal Asylum. The throng outside the gates meant a discreet exit was in order.

    "What''s the n now?" the Phoenix Empress inquired, her voice softening.

    "You''re to vanish into the Primeval Demon Hell, y dead. Until I say otherwise, you''re to keep out of sight," Moon Fairy instructed, his tone brooking no argument.

    "So, we pin our <em>death</em> on the Nian?" she prodded for rity.

    "No need for scapegoats. The fact remains that they vanished in the Immortal Asylum. Let them specte on the culprit," Moon Fairy replied.

    "And you weren''t seen?" the Phoenix Empress pressed, seeking reassurance.

    "Of course not. I made sure of that,"

    "Oh" With a coy smile, the Phoenix Empress nted a kiss on Moon Fairy''s cheek, her voice dripping with mock indignation. "So, you had ns to rescue me all along, you tsundere! Acting all indifferent, yet here you are, risking it all for me."

    Moon Fairy just chuckled.

    "What''s this? A soul inside?" the Demon Queen asked, eyeing the fox ear pendant.

    "My first sugar mama..." Moon Fairy confessed.

    "???" The Demon Queen, irked, tugged at his ear, "So, you''re a professional gigolo, huh? Spill it, how many more are there?"

    "Just the two of you."

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    "Hmph," she huffed, still not quite satisfied but willing to let it slidefor now.

    "You oughta tip your hat to her," Moon Fairy suddenly said.

    "Why''s that?"

    "Once upon a time, I was too green, couldn''t save her. Took that regret," he paused, taking a breath, "to spur me into saving a demon like you at the risk of making an enemy out of the Primordial Ruins."

    "Well, that does pluck the heartstrings," the Phoenix Empress pinched his ear, "But can you drop the human tone? Grates on my ears. I miss the sassy yet polite little fox."

    "That was all an act..."

    "I''m begging you, keep the show going," she implored.

    "Alright then..." With a mix ofughter and tears, Moon Fairy tickled her with his four tails, coaxing giggles and squeals of delight. Clearly, she was smitten with the fox, not the man.

    "ying with my body double like this? Intriguing," Yun Xiao mused, tempted to conjure a few more. Each double, a different chapter, a new facet to his Worldly Dao Heart. He just had to avoid developing a split personality.

    "Doesn''t it twist your melon?" Blue Star suddenly chimed in.

    "How so?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Back in the Divine Continent, you were offing demons for humans. Now, you''re offing humans for a demon. Seems like you''ve lost yourpass," Blue Star''s question was a dart to the heart.

    "Your words sound dire, but they''re empty," Yun Xiao said, unruffled.

    "How''s that?"

    "If principles are rigid, the follower bes numb. My allegiance is to my people on the grand stage, but on a personal vendetta, I y by my own rules. Or else how would I be any different from those zealots?"

    Yun Xiao nced back at his body double and the Phoenix Empress, continuing, "If there''s to be an unchanging principle, it''s myself. Everythinges from the heart. Setting doctrines only blocks my path. Why bother?"

    His actions weren''t a sign of losing his way, but of his moralpass maturing, understanding better how to wield his reborn abilities for the world.

    Upon entering the Nine Hells, the tables turned; no longer were demons oppressing humans. Yun Xiao would quell them, ensuring the greatest gain for humanity, but the total annihtion in the Demon Continent was a one-time deal.

    He was after bigger fish. Like the peril of the Nian. That was the kind of challenge that could truly grow his Worldly Dao Heart.

    "Bravo, you''ve broadened your horizons, seeing things from a wider perspective now," Blue Starmended.

    "Of course," Yun Xiao replied with a chuckle.

    "Except you''re a bit of a scatterbrain! We''ve met a fox and a chicken so far, but you still haven''t found a woman cow yet for your reliable old reddy," Red Moonmented.

    "..." Yun Xiao was at a loss for words...

    Soon, they approached the neighboring Bound Gate.

    Using his body double, Yun Xiao reminded the Phoenix Empress, "Remember, once we''re out, you''re <em>dead</em> to the world."

    "Got it, how annoying," she retorted.

    At the gate, Moon Fairy bid her a reluctant farewell.

    Yun Xiao was also ready to depart, to return to the stronghold in the Nine Hells. The War Princess wouldn''tst much longer without the Blood Base being returned.

    Just then, a rustle came from behind!

    Yun Xiao and his body double turned, their brows furrowed.

    From the darkness, soft footsteps approached, apanied by a massive shadow looming closer.

    Soon, it stood before Yun Xiao!

    "Hmm?" A chill ran down Yun Xiao''s spine, a feeling more terrifying than encountering the Year Beast.

    This was a giant beast, akin to an ape, covered in ck fur.

    The creature that stole the show was a marvel with three heads and six arms, each head sporting a different expression: joy, rage, and sorrow. And it was with a look of sorrow that it gazed upon Yun Xiao.

    But the real kicker, the thing that really made one''s hair stand on end, was what it held in its grasp, a young man in a ck robe, with hair smooth as silk and eyes shut tight. Yun Xiao''s eyes were drawn to the young man''s chest, where a dark vortex swirled, a sight so bewildering it could make a catugh.

    "Can''t be!" Blue Star''s eyes shook with disbelief, as if he''d seen a ghost at noon.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao, puzzled, asked.

    "That''s not a being from this Dao Realm! This can''t be..."

    Blue Star grew anxious, retreating into Yun Xiao''s embrace as if seeking shelter from a storm.

    Just then, the ck-robed youth spoke up, "You, are you the Primogential Spirit of this Dao Realm? What a sorry state you''re in."

    "Primogenital Spirit?" Yun Xiao''s gaze sharpened.

    The youth''s eyes fluttered open, revealing a pair of deep red orbs.

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    "I''ll be waiting for you on the 18th level."

    With those parting words, he and the three-headed six-armed wonder vanished into a mist, leaving Yun Xiao standing there, mouth agape, in a mix of awe and confusion.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 369: Just a Single Hair That Broke Free!

    Chapter 369: Just a Single Hair That Broke Free!

    "He vanished?" Yun Xiao found himself staring into the void where once stood a man and a monstrous creature, now seemingly swallowed by the earth itself. The chilling aura that had pervaded the air moments ago had dissipated as if it were never there.

    "Did he just say he''d be waiting for me on the 18th level?" Yun Xiao mused aloud, pulling a small, ck beast from his embrace.

    "Yeah!" Blue Star replied with a calm and collected demeanor, a far cry from just a moment ago. "My impable deduction skills lead me to believe that this duo must be prisoners within the 18th level of the Immortal Asylum!"

    "And you needed to deduce that?" Yun Xiao was amused, noting a slightly startled undertone in Blue Star and Red Moon''s reactions. What kind of formidable presence could elicit such a response from them?

    "What''s with that look?" Blue Star, arms crossed, red back, his voice taking on a child-like indignation. "Let me be clear, it''s not that we were afraid of them. It''s just that, having been reborn alongside you, our foundations are somewhat shaky, and it''s only prudent to be cautious!"

    "I''ll take your word for it." Yun Xiao chuckled, his gaze once again drawn into the depths of the Immortal Asylum, murmuring, "So, what we encountered was not their true form, but merely a projection. Their actual selves must still be confined within the darkest depths of the Immortal Asylum."

    "Possibly..." Blue Star pondered.

    "Possibly what?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "It''splicated. They''re not beings of the Dao Realm, meaning they''re not your creations. It''s uncertain if their entire essence is imprisoned. Moreover, their appearance here raises questions," Blue Star mused, shaking his head.

    "Not of the Dao Realm, beyond the reach of the Creator Immortal... Are there other grand worlds beyond the Dao Realm?" Yun Xiao pondered.

    "Indeed, unraveling that mystery was your quest in a past life. It''s quite the stroke of luck to stumble upon a clue so soon after being reborn. Especially since this fellow could discern your essence as the Primogential Spirit. That''s no small feat," Blue Star added with feigned profundity.

    "Good thing he didn''t seem hostile to Creator; otherwise, I''d be deprived of my demon milk," Red Moon interjected, somewhat startled.

    "Don''t boost his ego at the expense of your own standing. Trapped in the deepest level of the Immortal Asylum, who knows how long it''s been since he''s stirred. He might not even be in a position to defend himself," Blue Star retorted with a scoff.

    "Not in a position to defend himself?" Yun Xiao recalled the ck-robed youth''s gaze, which didn''t seem to align with that assessment.

    "Listen, Brother," Blue Star''s tone turned grave, his eyes aze with seriousness, "Given the encounter and recognition, regardless of the circumstances, you must seize control of the Immortal Asylum to avert the greatest potential threat to your path of rebirth."

    "The greatest threat?" Yun Xiao paused, taken aback.

    Even the Primordial Immortal Ancestor hadn''t been deemed such a threat.

    "Exactly. His ability to recognize you at a nce means that if he breaks free and bes your foe, he''d have your fate in his hands. Should your identity be exposed, all beings under the Six Ancestral Gods, yearning for your Seed of Creation, would seek your end, cutting off your path of rebirth. In such a case, no one could safeguard you," Blue Star dered.

    Yun Xiao got it, clear as day. In a nutshell, he was still on thin ice. Even his nest egg, hard-earned and dearly kept, would do him little good if push came to shove and he met his demise. That would be the end of the line for hisst stand as the Creator Immortal.

    "Taking control of the Immortal Asylum means I''d hold some cards, whether dealing with friend or foe, right?" Yun Xiao grasped the essence of it. No way was he going to let anyone else have a stranglehold on his fate.

    "Spot on! That''s crucial," Blue Star concurred.

    "But how do I get a grip on this Immortal Asylum?" Yun Xiao pondered aloud.

    "That''s a toughie. Needs a bit more noodling. With the Nian hogging the first level, it might just be our way in," Blue Star mused, eyeing the depths of the corridor. "At its core, the Immortal Asylum is a top-tier magical artifact. And artifacts can be mastered. Imagine, toting around with an Immortal prison!"

    "Carrying around an Immortal Asylum... What''s in it for me?" Yun Xiao zeroed in on the crux.

    "The perks? Well..." Blue Star paused, "Just the Nian on the first level is a force to be reckoned with, and the deepest level is home to creatures from other Dao Realms. The beings sealed in this entire Immortal Asylum are no small fry. Devour them, and our path to rebirth might just smooth out."

    "Devour them?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle, "Here I was thinking I''d have to win them over, have them serve me, maybe even find a few more mentors to guide me on the Heavenly Dao"

    But to devour them? That was the Creator Immortal for youstraightforward and brutal, never ying by the book.

    "Devouring, of course!" Blue Star shrugged, "You haven''t noticed? The Seed of Creation on that Nian is leagues above your current mishmash of Nine Heavens Star Meridians and Nine Suns Dantian. Perfect for the Divine Destion Physique. A juicy pig like that, it''d be a waste not to eat."

    "Alright, it''s a dog-eat-dog world out there. Survival of the fittest, and it all boils down to who eats whom." Yun Xiao wasn''t burdened by this. He and the Nian were natural enemies, after all.

    "Cmities descend, chaos reigns, and with the Nian''s emergence, this winter spells the greatest disaster the Nine Hells have ever faced..."

    The Immortal Asylum! Yun Xiao was brewing with some ideas about this magical artifact.

    "Most importantly, that duo on the 18th level might carry secrets from beyond our Dao Realm, the very mysteries you sought in your past life. You''d reached the pinnacle then, with no room left for growth. Only the Primordial Coffins and Dao Realms beyond ours might offer new opportunities in this life..." Blue Star said.

    Yun Xiao clenched his teeth, "So, whether it''s about gaining the upper hand, or for the Seeds of Creation, magic treasures, or Dao Realms unknown... I need to get my hands on this Immortal Asylum."

    With onest nce at the dark expanse, he turned and vanished in the direction of the mountains and rivers outside.

    Before long, Yun Xiao found himself back at the edge of the Radiance Gate, where the mountain streams sang. There, in the midst of nature''s melody, awaited Mu Dalong, a tad anxious, her eyes swirling with worry.

    "Exile Yun..." She breathed a sigh of relief as Yun Xiao reappeared, her tense shoulders dropping slightly at his reassuring nod and smile.

    "I''ve noticed some Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils getting restless, plotting to tattle on you to the Primordial Envoys," Mu Dalong shared, her voiceced with concern.

    "Well, we''ll just have to see who''s quicker, their tongues or my sword," Yun Xiao quipped before striding into the heart of the stream.

    Beneath a moss-covered rocky a bup sack, cradling a mummified corpse within.

    "Those Primordial Envoys were too caught up in the ruckus caused by the Nian to notice the demonic aura and devil blood on me. Otherwise, they''d be scratching their heads wondering about the oddities clinging to my being."

    Now was the time to <em>release</em> these two potent forces he harbored.

    Moon Fairy, having harvested the Deste Essence of nearly half the Nine Hells, had secluded himself for a breakthrough.

    With a flick of his wrist, a mist of blood danced from Yun Xiao towards the desated corpse, enveloping it in a dragon-shaped cloud. As the crimson mist seeped in, the corpse began to inte, transforming from its ghastly state to one of vibrant youth and allure.

    The War Princess jolted upright, gasping for air as if she''d just been dragged from the depths of the Endless Netherworld back to thend of the living. Her pallor, once ashen, flushed with life after several heaving breaths, her heart stuttering back to rhythm.

    Panting, she flicked her pink tongue out, a full three inches of supple, enticing flesh that could set minds wandering under the moonlit sky. Her figure, enhanced by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, was nothing short of breathtakinga celestial beauty carved from the very essence of temptation.

    Blinking away her daze, she finally focused on the world around her, a whisper escaping her lips, "I... I''m not dead..."

    "Of course, you''re not," Yun Xiao stated, towering over her, his gaze inadvertently wandering only to be obstructed by an unexpected sight.

    "Yun Xiao!" She clung to his arm, desperation in her tear-filled eyes, "Please, no more of this torment. It''s unbearable, like being trapped in a confined world,pletely immobilized, every inch of me in agony."

    "It can stop. You just need to die. Then I won''t have to bother keeping your flesh intact anymore," Yun Xiao replied, his tone as calm as the stream that flowed beside them.

    The War Princess stared at Yun Xiao, a chill settling in her heart as his words sank in.

    "Did you forget our initial bargain? I spared your life in exchange for your service," Yun Xiao reminded her.

    "I remember," she murmured, head bowed.

    "You said, as long as you could return to the Endless Netherworld and prove your worth, death wouldn''t matter," Yun Xiao continued, locking eyes with her.

    "Yes..." she whispered, unable to meet his gaze.

    "Now, you''ve nearly fulfilled your purpose, and yet, after a mere feigned death, you seek to renegotiate?" Yun Xiao chided, gently lifting her chin to face him.

    "I was wrong," the War Princess admitted, tears streaming down her face.

    "Admitting your mistake is good," Yun Xiao suddenly softened, pinching her cheek with a chuckle. "Alright, if I must use you in the future, I''ll try to make it quick."

    "You..." From his initial indifference to his now tender smile, the War Princess was bewildered, caught between the sting of his rebuke and the sweetness of his reassurance.

    In truth, Yun Xiao had been more than fair to her. His scare was merely a caution, a reminder not to take his kindness for granted and growcent.

    Sure enough, she bit back her pride. Tall and statuesque, she towered over Yun Xiao, yet in his presence, her defiance melted away.

    "Yun Xiao..." she began, biting her lip.

    "What did you call me?" his voice deepened.

    "Master," she conceded, tears of humiliation falling.

    "That''s better."

    Deep within the Immortal Asylum, darkness was shattered by a golden figure, illuminating the ruined Eight Trigrams battlefield with a blinding light. It was the golden-eyed youth. Unfazed by the carnage around him, he looked up to meet the gaze of a thousand Old Immortals, their gnarled teeth bared in malice. Behind him, a shadow with crimson hair lurked, barely visible.

    The golden-eyed youth smiled. "I thought you might have broken free entirely... Turns out, it was just a single hair that escaped."

 Chapter 370: Conjuring Beans into Soldiers!

    Chapter 370: Conjuring Beans into Soldiers!

    With a roar that would make the bravest of souls quiver, the scene transformed drastically at the sight of the youth with golden eyes. Gone was the jovial ease that once danced around the fiery-haired Old Immortal when facing Yun Xiao, reced now by an expression so sour, it could curdle milk, dripping with a dread so thick one could cut it with a knife.

    He let out a screech, fierce as a cornered beast, and charged with a horde of Old Immortals, each one looking more like a relic than thest, towards the young man whose eyes sparkled like twin suns.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ground shuddered and cracked under the stampede of these old men, their faces twisted in grotesque snarls, moving with a ferocity that belied their age, like a pack of wild beasts unleashed.

    Amidst this chaos, the fiery-haired Old Immortal morphed into a crimson blur, a specter weaving through hisrades, closing in on the golden-eyed youth with a ghost''s silent grace.

    "Pests!" The youth stood tall, a lone bastion amidst the storm, his gaze icy, stripping the oing horde of their dwindling dignity, regarding them as one might a particrly disagreeable pack of rats.

    With a step back, he conjured a golden box from thin air, its surface swirling with inscriptions exuding profound mysteries. "Open!" hemanded, his voice cutting through.

    The box sprang open to reveal a mist of Immortal energy, within which danced about a thousand golden beans, each bearing a visage etched in gold, a silent army waiting for its call to arms.

    "Go forth!" With a sweep of his arm, he scattered the beans before him.

    <em>POP! POP! POP! </em>Before the beans even touched the earth, they burst into golden mists, which coalesced into armored figures. These golden warriors born from the dust stood tall and imposing in their gleaming regalia. Swords in hand, their lifeless gazes promising nothing but oblivion.

    This was no mere trick; this was the art of conjuring warriors from beans, a legend whispered in the darkest corners of the Nine Hells, a feat beyond the reach of mere mortals.

    To wield such power, one mustmand the very essence of the world, backed by a might that could forge these Immortal constructs, supported by wealth vast as the oceans.

    And in a voice that could freeze the sun, the youthmanded, "Annihte!"

    At his word, the golden warriors, once statuesque, now zed with a ferocious light, turning their steely gazes upon the tide of Old Immortals, their swords ready to reap the whirlwind.

    And so, the battle was joined, a sh of titans and time-worn old men, each wielding their might in a brutal melee.

    They shed, a maelstrom of flesh and steel, where the thunderous cacophony of bursting sinews and shattering armor rang out like a symphony of savagery. The air was filled with the ear-splitting roars of beasts, a testament to the ferocity of their brawl.

    The bestial Old Immortals and celestial automatons were locked inbat. The battle erupted into chaos, with limbs and appendages taking flight like some grotesque birds of prey.

    Many of the soldiers crumbled, their armor shattered, heads twisted off in a grim ballet of destruction. Likewise, many of the Old Immortals met their end, beheaded or disemboweled, their insides painting the ground in grisly strokes.

    The scene was a tableau of brutality, a dance of death under a symphony of destruction.

    In the midst of this carnage stood the youth with golden eyes, his technique of conjuring warriors from beans proving to be nothing short of miraculous. These soldiers alone could sweep through the Nine Hells, their might unfathomable.

    This young man, about ten years older than Yuan Jian, was at the prime age for a cultivator. Yuan Jian himself had reached the Late Genesis Spirit Realm at the tender age of 13 years old. Yet, the might of this golden-eyed youth was beyondprehension.

    Amidst the battlefield, he stood unyielding, a cold smile ying upon his lips.

    With a sudden pivot, he unleashed a punch that tore through the air, meeting the wed strike of the fiery-haired Old Immortal head-on.

    The impact sent shockwaves rippling through the ground, cracking the earth, bothbatants thrown back by the force. The fiery-haired Old Immortal soared into the sky, while the youth merely staggered, his every step sending tremors through the Immortal Asylum, a testament to his immovable presence.

    "A single hair, indeed frail and wanting," he mused, his gaze piercing as he inspected the scratches on his fist, his aura even moremanding.

    The trial had been set, the measure of the fiery-haired Old Immortal taken. It was time for the youth to unveil his true might.

    His fists clenched, his eyes aze with golden radiance, a cascade of golden light enveloped him, coalescing into scales of light that clung to his skin like divine armor, making him resplendent, a deity in mortal guise.

    "Behold, the Primordial Martial Dao, the Celestial Gold Armor..." The young man with golden eyes silently recited those words, his gaze locking onto the fiery-haired Old Immortal with the intensity of a hawk eyeing its prey.

    With a thunderous boom, he moved with a speed that blurred the lines between now and then, appearing behind the old man in an instant. His fist, a gold, was simplicity and brutality embodied, bearing down like a mountain upon the ancient''s back.

    The Old Immortal''s face twisted in rm, spinning around in a desperate attempt to block with his arms.

    Sadly, the golden punch came crashing down like divine retribution, snapping the old man''s arms with a sickening crack, bending them at angles that would make a contortionist wince.

    The golden-eyed youth, relentless, followed up with a devastating blow to the Old Immortal''s chest. Blood sprayed, ribs shattered like ss under a hammer, the old man''s chest caving in as if struck by a meteor.

    With a grotesque twist of his face, the Old Immortal spat out a mouthful of ck blood, a scream torn from his lips as he was sent hurtling through the air.

    The victor was clear, the fiery-haired Old Immortal was utterly outmatched, overwhelmed by a disy of sheer physical dominance that left him no quarter.

    His plight now was a far cry from the swagger with which he had once crushed Yun Xiao, reduced from a towering inferno to mere embers in the wind.

    The Old Immortal''s pained howls trailed behind him as he crashed to the ground, rolling for what seemed an eternity before the golden-eyed youth''s might was finally spent.

    "A withered beast, clinging to a flicker of past glory? I''m afraid those days are long gone," the golden-eyed youth sneered, his voice a cold wind that snuffed out any sparks of resistance.

    With a roar that was more desperation than defiance, the fiery-haired Old Immortal staggered to his feet, his body a broken vessel, his once-proud mane now a blood-soaked banner of his defeat.

    "Die! Die!" the old man bellowed at the golden-eyed youth, defiance ring like a dying star.

    But in a twist that bordered onedic, no sooner had his roar echoed than he turned tail, fleeing into the darkened corridors of the Immortal Asylum with a speed born of sheer survival instinct.

    "Running?" The golden-eyed youth''sugh was like a predator''s growl, as he transformed into a spear of blinding light, chasing down his prey.

    "The path of immortality is preordained, life and death but footnotes in its margins. Your struggles, as pitiful as a tiger stripped of its fangs, only serve to underscore your fall from grace, a sad spectacle indeed."

    Outside the Radiance Gate of the Immortal Asylum, Yun Xiao stood atop a mountain peak, his gaze piercing the veiled chaos within. The tremors and the distant wails of the ancients within echoed, a testament to the turmoil unfolding.

    "As expected of someone from the Primordial Ruins, he''s no slouch," Yun Xiao mused, a note of wariness for the golden-eyed youth threading his thoughts. It wasn''t the youth''s might that unnerved him but the weight of those he now sought to protect.

    He had already dispatched the Sword Warden and others to safer distances.

    Aware of the restless stirrings among some of the Inscription Cultivators and Yang Devils, Yun Xiao seized the moment to confront them.

    With a significant number having departed, the remaining were few. Wordlessly, Yun Xiao wielded his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, ying a hundred of the most vocal dissenters from each group.

    After the deed, to the ashen-faced survivors, he offered a chilling grace, "This is your final chance. Cherish it. Or else your hells won''t even have a single Fate Ocean Realm cultivator left."

    Their legs buckled, their wills broken, they knelt.

    Soon, the golden-eyed youth emerged from the Immortal Asylum, his demeanor clouded with frustration.

    Yun Xiao approached the youth and asked, "Primordial Envoy, did you manage to y the Nian?"

    The golden-eyed youth shook his head with a grim look. "I wounded him pretty badly, but he escaped."

    "I see. Still, quite impressive," Yun Xiao said. He was inwardly surprised that the golden-eyed youth waspletely unscathed after a battle with that fiery-haired Old Immortal.

    The golden-eyed youth nced at Yun Xiao and said, "You should hurry up and have your people split into eight groups and keep a lookout over the eight gates of the Immortal Asylum. If that withered old beast tries to escape, quickly notify me.

    "Understood," Yun Xiao affirmed.

    "If that Nian breaks out, it''ll be a cmity on themon folk. If there''s a single mistake, those countless lives are on your shoulders, understood?" the golden-eyed youth said solemnly.

    "Yes! I''ll give it my all for the sake of themon people!" Yun Xiao said. He hurriedly had several Sword Cultivators, Yin Devils, and even a few merfolk set off for the other gates of the Immortal Asylum.

    In fact, Yun Xiao had already made these preparations before. He was just doing it again as a bit of theater to assure the golden-eyed youth that all was in hand. It was just keeping watch; there was no need for too many people.

    "If it''s just those run-of-the-mill remnants sneaking out, it''s no big deal. I''m sure your people can handle it. But if that fiery-haired one shows up, you''ll be in for a disaster," the golden-eyed youth said coldly.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded. He was of the same mind.

    "My second brother might send down a squad of Primordial Guards to wipe out all of that withered beast''s remnants. Make sure none of those escapees get far. You keep your eyes peeled, and you''ll be rewarded appropriately," the golden-eyed youth added, throwing Yun Xiao an extra nce. "To be the Nine Hells Conqueror at 16 years old, you must have quite a lot of support behind you."

    It wasn''t so much ament on Yun Xiao''s strength as it was praise of his ability to rally folks to his cause. The golden-eyed youth found himself thinking quite highly of this Nine Hells Conqueror.

    "I''ll give it my all," Yun Xiao promised.

    With that, the golden-eyed youth seemed to shake off some of his frustration from losing track of the fiery-haired Old Immortal. He looked around and casually asked, "And where''s my third brother?"

    "Primordial Envoy, we haven''t seen nor heard him since you three headed into the Immortal Asylum," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Not seen him?" The golden-eyed youth was taken aback. "You mean to say he didn''te out of the Radiance Gate?"

    Yun Xiao confirmed as much, "We''ve been here the whole time, and there''s been no sign of him."

    The youth''s face clouded over, a storm brewing. "That little rascal, spoiled rotten by our mother! Always biting off more than he can chew."

    It was clear from his tone; this wasn''t the first time the younger sibling had stirred the pot.

    "I''ll go in after him. You keep an eye on the gates. If you hear anything about my brother, send word inside. With that withered beast badly hurt, he shouldn''t be too much of a threat," the golden-eyed youth said seriously.

    "Understood," Yun Xiao replied.

    "And if the Primordial Guards show up, fill them in on the situation." With that, the golden-eyed youth turned into a streak of gold and zipped into the Immortal Asylum, leaving Yun Xiao to his watchful waiting.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 371: Domineering Female Immortal General!

    Chapter 371: Domineering Female Immortal General!

    After the golden-eyed youth left, Blue Star popped his head out from Yun Xiao''s embrace, his eyes twinkling as he said, "His Seed of Creation isn''t half bad."

    "How so?" Yun Xiao asked, squinting.

    "It''s got a knack for bolstering the flesh without a whiff of demon aura about it, seeing as it''s from a human and all. No need to hand it over to Moon Fairy; you can use it yourself. Might just beef you up a bit," Blue Star exined.

    "Well, that''s a stroke of luck. My Dantian and meridians are sturdy enough, but my flesh could use some toughening. Not for fighting, mind you, but it''s good to have a solid foundation," Yun Xiao mused.

    "Otherwise, you''ll turn to a puff of smoke sooner orter," Blue Star chuckled.

    "Buzz off." Yun Xiao ignored him, gazing in the direction the golden-eyed youth had gone. "Seems like in the Primordial Ruins, martial cultivation has got its own ce. Might be worth a look."

    He was set on reforging himself as a Creator Immortal, aiming to climb thedder up the heavens!

    From what Yun Xiao had heard, this divine vessel that soared through different worlds was surely a sacred ce of the Immortal Dao, beyond any world''s reach.

    "But if it''s always on the move, who knows when it''ll swing by the Nine Hells again. Once I board, I might lose sight of Senior Sister Zhao..." Yun Xiao muttered.

    "Which weighs more, rebuilding the Creator Immortal or your Senior Sister Zhao?" Blue Star asked, none too pleased.

    "Don''t be stupid," Yun Xiao replied, grasping at the air, "Senior Sister Zhao, of course."

    "..." Blue Star was speechless.

    "A lost cause!" Red Moon remarked.

    "Lost in love, lost in life," Blue Star spat.

    "You don''t get it," Yun Xiao said with a slight smile. "Why do folks trudge so far, fight so hard, if not to make a better, dignified return home?"

    With Zhao Xuanran, home was wherever they were.

    Since leaving Azure Spirit, he wasn''t just a wandering soul anymore.

    So, the road home mattered most.

    The golden-eyed youth''s quest to find his brother was a journey destined to end in naught.

    Yun Xiao braced himself for another round of confrontation.

    Unexpectedly, before the golden-eyed youth could step out of the Immortal Asylum, the Primordial Guards he spoke of beat him to it.

    <em>BOOM! </em>On this eerily silent night, the sky suddenly burst into dazzling starlight, followed by earth-shattering roars.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see a colossal, colorful divine vessel descending from the heavens!

    The vessel''s brilliance illuminated the world like a moon falling from the sky, stirring joy in all beings.

    To Yun Xiao, this colorful divine vessel was akin to a small city, capable offortably housing thousands.

    But given the formidable power of the Primordial Ruins, the Primordial Guards would hardly need to cram.

    "Powerful" Even though its passengers were yet unseen, Yun Xiao felt a palpable sense of awe. This was the natural suppression exerted by the mighty upon the meek on thedder of the Immortal Dao!

    With such powerhouses emerging one after another, Yun Xiao''s rapid advancement through a major realm in ten days seemed insignificant.

    "Fortunately, these noble cultivators from the Primordial Ruins bear no direct conflict with me."

    Yun Xiao understood well that when encountering such beings, without an opportunity like the Sword Baptism Ceremony, it was best not to stir trouble and add to his challenges.

    He wasn''t afraid for himself, unencumbered as he was; he simply didn''t wish to drag innocents into trouble.

    Drawing unnecessary ire was not in Yun Xiao''s ybook.

    The incident with Yuan Jian and the Phoenix Demon Empress did highlight the inherent strife between the residents of the Primordial Ruins and the Nine Hells due to <em>ss differences</em>, but that was more about Yuan Jian''s character, an isted incident.

    As long as it went unnoticed, Yun Xiao didn''t give it another thought. Just a minor skirmish. Hardly worth mentioning!

    By then, the colorful divine vessel had descended before Yun Xiao.

    The vessel''s radiance cast a splendid glow on his white robe and ck hair, adding to his stunning appearance and divine countenance He stood out, even more, superior to the Primordial Guards emerging in session!

    As Yun Xiao''s gaze swept over, a group of immensely formidable figures emerged from the colorful divine vessel!

    d in white armor, ck iron boots, and hefty helmets, their imposing figures unmistakably belonged to Martial Cultivators.

    Even Zhao Xuanran''sted stockings were magic treasures, so it stood to reason that their armor, boots, and helmets were top-notch treasures too, with runes flowing over them and a dazzling sheen, surely offering incredible protection.

    "Even their standard-issue gear feels no less potent than the Dragon Wick Seal. And these Primordial Guards, their power and cultivation surpass even the Wick Devil!"

    Yun Xiao was inwardly shaken. The might of the Primordial Ruins was evident! It existed in a different dimension on thedder of the Immortal Dao, far from the Nine Hells. Its ability to traverse countless worlds and reign supreme surely stemmed from an overarching dominion.

    These Primordial Guards were the epitome of the Primordial Ruins'' supremacy!

    Each one surpassed the Genesis Spirit Realm!

    Yun Xiao, still in the Fate Ocean Realm, realized he couldn''t take on even one Primordial Guard without merging with the War Princess and Moon Fairy.

    And right now, there were about 250 of these guards before him!

    Mostly in their prime, the resolute and icy expressions of the Primordial Guards revealed that these were battle-hardened warriors of the Immortal Dao!

    "They''re taking the matter of the Nian very seriously!"

    Given that the golden-eyed youth could defeat the fiery-haired Old Immortal alone, dispatching such a formidable force from the Primordial Ruins was clearly to ensure the absolute eradication of the Nian, leaving no room for risk.

    Yun Xiao didn''t ponder further and stepped forward to greet them.

    Just then, the 250 Primordial Guards parted to form a path.

    Their solemn gazes indicated the imminent arrival of an important figure!

    Yun Xiao halted and turned his attention that way.

    Amidst the shimmering light of the divine vessel, a tall and graceful figure emerged, vaguely visible in snow-white battle armor and abat skirt, with high-heeled boots, her long hair tied up, holding a phoenix-feathered helmet.

    It was unmistakably a woman!

    Yet, her presence was like a whirlwind, both enchanting and severe, with an otherworldly aura. Despite her long rounded legs and proud stature, no one dared meet her gaze directly.

    Especially intriguing was the contrast between her softness and the armor''s rigidity, with half of her fairplexion peeking through, creating a striking juxtaposition.

    It was like watching milk swirl in a steel cup!

    She stood before the Primordial Guards, at the prow of the colorful divine vessel, and as her jade hand rested on the ship''s side, gazing out at the world, she effortlessly evoked a profound sense of awe.

    That''s when it hit him. It was as if she were saying the whole world belonged to her! Conquered with just a nce!

    "Now, there''s ady with an iron fist," Yun Xiao mused, taken aback.

    Setting aside hermanding presence, from the standpoint of sheer might and the aura of intimidation, he reckoned she was a notch above the golden-eyed youth.

    At a loss for proper titles, Yun Xiao dipped his head slightly and said, "Yun Xiao, at your service, esteemed Immortals."

    The Primordial Guards had him pegged from the get-go. Their gazes were steady, any flicker of surprise owed more to Yun Xiao''s striking looks and bearing than anything else.

    "Yun Xiao?" The formidabledy leaned in, only then noticing the white-d youth amidst the breeze.

    She paused, a flicker of surprise crossing her face.

    Clearly,pared to the stoic guards, her woman''s intuition was more attuned to Yun Xiao''s divine visage.

    After sizing him up, her lips curled into a faint smile.

    Then, turning her attention away from Yun Xiao, she gazed towards the Immortal Asylum and asked in a chilling tone, "Where''s Yuan Wu?"

    "He''s dealt a heavy blow to the remnant of the Nian and is now in pursuit," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Pursuit?" The woman seemed displeased.

    Without another word, she gestured forward, and all the Primordial Guards behind her vanished from Yun Xiao''s sight in a whoosh.

    They split into eight squads, each entering through one of the eight gates of the Immortal Asylum, clearly a premeditated move.

    After the guards dispersed, only Yun Xiao and the woman remained.

    She soared into the air, her white cloak fluttering behind her.

    In an instant, she was before Yun Xiao, her almond eyes glowing softly as she looked at him.

    "You''re Yun Xiao?" she asked, her lips parting slightly.

    "Yes, Immortal." Yun Xiao nodded.

    The woman reached out, gently caressing his cheek, then pinched it firmly, dering, "After I y the Nian, you''reing with me to the Primordial Ruins."

    Yun Xiao blinked in surprise, asking, "Why...?"

    "You''ll see when we get there." With that, she vanished with a buzz, leaving Yun Xiao standing there, pondering.

 Chapter 372: Playing the Pig to Eat the Tiger!

    Chapter 372: ying the Pig to Eat the Tiger!

    Inside the Immortal Asylum, the Primordial Guards streamed in one after another, causing a greatmotion. They pressed forward from eight entrances, nearly sealing off every possible escape route for any Old Immortals trying to break free.

    "Stay sharp, everyone!"

    It was clear that the group of over 250 was dead serious.

    Advancing step by step, they finally converged near the Eight Trigrams arena, securing all strategic points. Their white armor shimmered with a cold light in the darkness, each bearing a circr <em>Return</em> symbol on their chest tes, marking their supreme status from the Primordial Ruins.

    "Who''s in charge here?" Barely had they taken their positions when a young man with golden eyes, Yuan Wu, emerged from the shadows, eyeing the Primordial Guards.

    No sooner had he spoken than a towering woman with an unparalleled aura stepped forward, casting a nce at the young man from her elevated position.

    "Zhang Qingwei, it''s you!" Yuan Wu''s pupils shrank slightly, his expression turning somewhat grim. Clearly, he wasn''t thrilled to see her.

    "Where''s the remains of the Nian?" Zhang Qingwei asked coldly, d in armor.

    "I''ve already crippled it. It''s no threat now," Yuan Wu responded coolly, clearly not too pleased.

    "Crippled by you? Was the Nian that weak?" Zhang Qingwei raised her brows in inquiry.

    "Just a minor breakout," Yuan Wu replied nonchntly.

    Hearing this, the fully armed Primordial Guards let out a sigh of relief. The news of a Nian breaking out had indeed made them nervous upon entering the Immortal Asylum.

    After a moment of contemtion, Zhang Qingweimanded, "Seal all exits and conduct a thorough search. Kill anything that tries to escape, leaving not even a speck of dust behind."

    "Yes!" The Primordial Guards dispersed, each to their task.

    "If I may trouble you for a small favor," Yuan Wu suddenly said, catching everyone by surprise. It was unusual for someone of his noble lineage to ask for help.

    "Speak," Zhang Qingwei said, slightly taken aback.

    "My younger brother, Yuan Jian, has also entered the Immortal Asylum, and I''ve lost track of him. Please, keep an eye out for him," Yuan Wu requested directly.

    The Primordial Guards exchanged nces. This task seemed simple enoughshould they encounter him, a shout would suffice.

    Without further ado, they scattered again, and it wasn''t long before a team came racing back with news, "Found it! It''s cornered!"

    "Let''s go!" Zhang Qingwei and the young man with golden eyes, nked by a contingent of Primordial Guards, hastened towards the scene. About 200 guards dashed along, swift as the wind and lightning.

    These Martial Cultivators moved with the grace of demons, their agility and speed unparalleled. As they advanced, they summoned whirlwinds and trod on bolts of lightning, turning their mastery of the mystical arts into a dazzling disy.

    They plunged into a dark tunnel, pursuing their quarry until they reached a dead end, where a massive fissure loomed before them, darkness yawning beyond. The rocks beneath the fissure were stained with blood, a testament to the countless bones shattered here. This was the very spot where Yun Xiao first encountered the Old Immortals grinding flesh into meatballs!

    With a roar, the Primordial Guards halted, sealing off the tunnel. They peered ahead, where over 900 battered and bloodied Old Immortals were cornered. Most were grievously injured, missing limbs and bleeding profusely, their desperation making them ferociously bare their teeth and hiss at their captors.

    Among them was the fiery-haired Old Immortal, his chest caved in and face cracked, teetering on the brink of death.

    "Seems it really was just a breakout of the elderly. Bit of overkill," Zhang Qingwei remarked coolly, casting a nce at the young man with golden eyes.

    "Bringing all these Primordial Guards to kill a chicken with a bull''s axe," the young man retorted, arms crossed, his gaze deep. "Had our intelligence been better, I alone would have sufficed."

    "Well then, be my guest. We''ll cover you. The glory''s all yours," Zhang Qingwei replied, unimpressed.

    Heeding her words, the young man didn''t utter a singleint but charged alone towards the thousand Old Immortals, those he had already bested.

    Now, they were but easy prey.

    "If only we hadn''t been so jittery about the legendary might of the Nian," he mused. Had he known this, he wouldn''t have sent his brother to report back; he could have imed all the glory for himself.

    In the thick of it, with the Primordial Guards either lending a hand or not, it seemed they''d still snag a slice of the glory pie. Not the most ideal situation. The young man with golden eyes zeroed in on that fiery-haired Old Immortal, and with a booming sound, transformed into a dazzling streak of golden light, barreling towards him.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Wherever he went, the other Old Immortals were sent flying, battered and bruised.

    "This Nian really is a pushover," the Primordial Guards muttered among themselves.

    "Locked up too long, it''s just having itsst hurrah."

    It was a sight that stirred a mix of emotions, turning the tense standoff into more of a spectator sport for the Primordial Guards. Even those tasked with sealing off the area couldn''t help but wander in, their guardpletely lowered.

    And then, with a thunderous roar, the young man with golden eyes brutally split the fiery-haired Old Immortal in two, his body exploding into bits that were swiftly consumed by golden mes, reduced to ash.

    "History should stay history; noing back from the dead," he remarked as he dusted off his hands and stepped over the remains, casting a nce at the Primordial Guards.

    "Formidable."

    "Exceptionally talented!"

    "A true master of the Martial Dao!"

    Praises filled the air, the gazes of the Primordial Guards filled with genuine admiration.

    "Come clean this up, and we''re done here," the young man said, clearly not in the mood to deal with the remaining small fry, making his way over to the guards.

    With the fiery-haired Old Immortal out of the picture, the rest seemed inconsequential, mere paper tigers in the eyes of the Primordial Guards.

    Landing beside Zhang Qingwei with a thud that cracked the ground beneath his iron boots, he wasn''t met with awe but a simplemand from her to clean up and head back. "You really didn''t need toe," he said, eyeing the frail Old Immortals before them.

    "I wouldn''t say that," Zhang Qingwei shrugged, "At least I can help look for your missing brother, right? Who knows, maybe we''ll find his head in one of their bellies."

    His eyes narrowed, a chill running through the air at her words.

    The matter of the younger brother was indeed bing quite the conundrum. "Where could he have possibly gone?" he pondered, his headache intensifying by the moment. But then, as if on cue, a subtle shift urred.

    "Hmm?" Zhang Qingwei felt an unexpected shiver down her spine. Peering ahead, she caught sight of a massive, murky yellow eye that had mysteriously appeared within the fissure, its gaze unsettling and eerie, sweeping over the Primordial Guards with an inscrutable look.

    "Could it be? It''s been imprisoned here? In this vast crack?" The young man with golden eyes felt a chill run down his spine, momentarily taken aback.

    Zhang Qingwei''s face paled instantly, and she barked, "Move, now!"

    But it was toote; they had been lured into a perilously tight spot.

    In an instant, the dull yellow eye shot out a beam of red light, bathing the entire Eight Trigrams arena. The battered Old Immortals caught in its glow began to regenerate flesh and bone, their bodies snapping back to form with a series of crackles, standing tall and whole once more. Their severe injuries miraculously healed in moments.

    What was truly terrifying was the growth of new crimson hair on these 900 rejuvenated Old Immortals under the red light, all in the span of just three breaths.

    Before Zhang Qingwei, the golden-eyed youth, and the 200 Primordial Guards, stood 900 fully restored, ferocious, and belligerent fiery-haired Old Immortals.

    "Uh..." The young man''s face drained of color as he clenched his teeth, "Impossible, ying the pig to eat the tiger?"

    "Run!" Zhang Qingwei was the first to shout, her voice sharp.

    One fiery-haired Old Immortal was nearly a match for the young man with golden eyes; facing over 900 was unfathomable. Not even 250 Primordial Guards could make a dent.

    "Was its real target the Primordial Guards? Indeed, the effect of consuming 200 Primordial Guards would surpass all the cultivators in this world by tenfold!" The realization made the young man''s skin crawl.

    "This could mean... Yuan Jian might be... gone." His heart truly sank at that thought.

    "Retreat! Retreat!"

    It was only then, deep in the heart of the trap and having let their guard down, that the Primordial Guards realized the direness of their escape.

    Roar after roar tore through the air as the fiery-haired Old Immortals, mouths agape with crimson fury, charged like mad beasts, heralding a nightmare that had just begun.

    No sooner had the words left their lips than those fiery-haired Old Immortals appeared behind the Primordial Guards, each seemingly stronger than the guards themselves.

    "No!"

    Many guards, who were just a tad slower, were immediately pounced upon by a dozen of these fierce beings. Before they could muster any defense, they were torn asunder, their bodies rended into pieces.

    The Old Immortals, clutching arms, heads, and legs, began to gnaw voraciously, blood flowing freely.

    "Run!"

    A desperate cry rang out, echoing the terror in the hearts of the Primordial Guards.

    They were too close, their daoist spells useless against the onught of the fiery-haired menace. For the Nian, this moment, long awaited, was its chance to unleash fury.

    Before the Nine Hells Conquest sh, it had devoured thousands, its power growing with each life consumed.

    What baffled the young man with golden eyes the most was the sheer strength of these Old Immortals, each far surpassing the one they had encountered earlier.

    It dawned on him; they had been duped, the previous disy a mere feint.

    Escape would have been possible in the Eight Trigrams arena, with its eight gates. But here, in this narrow corridor, they were trapped.

    "No wonder they breached the Immortal Asylum''s gates yet didn''t pursue further; they were waiting for fresh prey to wander into their trap!"

    The prey had to be just right, sufficient for the Nian to handle but not enough to overwhelm it. The thought alone sent shivers down their spines, the impending doom palpable.

    Screams filled the air as one Primordial Guard after another was brought down and devoured, their cries of agony a stark reminder of their grim fate. Even the battle-hardened were shaken to their core, their bodies consumed before their souls could even depart.

    Who could withstand such horror?

    As suppressed as the Old Immortals had been earlier, their release was equally vicious, turning the corridor into a blood-soaked path of carnage.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 373: Lian Xis Dream

    Chapter 373: Lian Xi''s Dream

    "Eh?" Yun Xiao stood outside the gate, puzzled. He thought the worst was over, but then, the Immortal Asylum erupted with even fiercer sounds of battle.

    "What''s the deal? Those Primordial Guards seemed pretty tough; who could possibly stand against them?" Yun Xiao wondered.

    Just a moment ago, that golden-eyed youth, Yuan Wu, boasted about beating the fiery-haired Old Immortal.

    "Could it be that the Nian yed a trick, and was aiming for the Primordial Guards all along? Is that why it didn''t chase after you guys and dive straight into the rest of the Nine Hells after breaking down the gate?" Blue Star raised an eyebrow.

    "Likely so." Yun Xiao had found it odd before; the Nian seemed in no rush. He thought maybe it failed to devour the powerhouses of the Nine Hells due to its weakened state... but was there more to it?

    Frowning, Yun Xiao asked, "What if its nourishment shifted from the cultivators of the Nine Hells to those 250 Primordial Guards? What then?"

    "They''re no ordinary warriors; they''re the cream of the crop, mostly Seeds of Creation. Each one''s worth their weight in gold, a match for hundreds, if not thousands of Talisman Emperors..." Blue Star''s eyes widened, "If that''s the case, we''re in deep trouble!"

    "If the Nian breaks freepletely because of this, the whole Nine Hells is doomed, maybe even the Divine Continent!" Yun Xiao wasn''t overthinking; themotion in the Immortal Asylum grew louder, despairing screams echoing within.

    These weren''t the cries of the Old Immortals. They had to be the Primordial Guards!

    Such divine beings, driven to despair only by something truly terrifying.

    "Change in the Immortal Asylum, everyone pull back another 100 miles!" Yun Xiao immediately decided to disperse the surrounding cultivators.

    This wasn''t a time for internal strife. If things got out of hand, it could spell disaster for all beings in the world, rendering personal gains meaningless in the face of such a cmity.

    As Yun Xiao dispersed the crowd, he coldly watched the gate, hoping he was wrong.

    But in that moment, harsh reality struck!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Out from the gate burst two figures, one in white and one in gold. It was Yuan Wu and Zhang Qingwei!

    Zhang Qingwei was somewhat okay, her armor torn, with a few scratches on her legs. But Yuan Wu seemed worse for wear, one arm possibly broken, his face marred by dense w marks, nearly losing an eye.

    The real terror was hot on their heels! Yun Xiao caught sight of a swarm of fiery-haired Old Immortals, roaring and giving chase, their numbers too many to count. Among thest to flee, a few Primordial Guards barely stepped out of the Immortal Asylum before being tackled to the ground. In moments, they were torn to shreds, devoured by the pursuing horde in a ghastly spectacle.

    "Damn..." The sight of so many fiery-haired Old Immortals clued Yun Xiao in on their grim fate. "They must''ve gobbled up all the Primordial Guards!" A disaster of historic proportions was unfolding.

    What to do? Before Yun Xiao could even process the situation, Zhang Qingwei was suddenly at his side, her arm snatching him by the waist and whisking him into the air. "Move!" Her voice was cold, brooking no argument, her grip iron-tight, leaving Yun Xiao gasping for breath.

    <em>BOOM!</em> Theynded aboard a colorful divine vessel. Zhang Qingwei tossed Yun Xiao onto the deck, took the helm, and with a swift turn, the vessel burst forth, soaring skyward!

    A horde of fiery-haired Old Immortals followed, their presence alone a sheer terror. Thankfully, the vessel seemed to be shielded by a magical array, repelling the attackers and ascending higher, momentarily out of danger.

    Leaning over the rail, Yun Xiao looked down to see the Old Immortals retreating back to the Immortal Asylum. Then, the asylum erupted in the most violent upheaval ever witnessed. Thend for miles around cracked open, rivers stopped flowing, volcanoes erupteda veritable doomsday scene!

    A long-suppressed roar of brutality and ferocity burst from the asylum, shaking the divine vessel to its core and scattering the dark clouds above.

    BOOM! The roar echoed across the Nine Hells, reaching every creature, instilling a universal dread of the end of times.

    From that moment on, it seemed no soul could escape the looming doom. A cmity year it was!

    "Could it truly be? Set fully free?" Yun Xiao''s eyes were red with dread. Perhaps before, its imprisonment in the depths was a distant tale, irrelevant to themon folk. But now, as it broke free, no one could remain untouched by the ensuing chaos.

    Who would bear the brunt? The Nine Hells, a sealed world, offered no escape.

    With each tremor of the Immortal Asylum, it felt like a direct blow to Yun Xiao''s heart. Some disasters, yet to unfold, were already foreseencountless lives lost, widespread mourning, a world in torment...

    And there was Yun Xiao, whisked away on this divine vessel of escape. He turned to look at the twopanions sharing his fateYuan Wu and Zhang Qingwei.

    "My brother''s still down there!" Yuan Wu stood, blood dripping from his face, his voice heavy as he addressed Zhang Qingwei.

    "What do you mean he''s still there? He''s probably long been eaten," Zhang Qingwei retorted, her tone icy as she steered the vessel.

    "You..." Yuan Wu looked down, witnessing the Nian''s frenzy, his heart skipping a beat. "Zhang Qingwei, your Primordial Guards fed it, causing this disaster. The me is on you!"

    A coldugh escaped Zhang Qingwei. "So quick to shift the me? Typical of your family, clinging to your so-called noble traditions."

    "Weren''t the Primordial Guards yours?" Yuan Wu red back.

    "Indeed! But I was merely following orders. You, on the other hand, with your arrogance and misinformation, have caused the death of myrades. Their families won''t let you off easily. I will report this to my superiors. Right and wrong will be judged by those who see clearly, not by your baseless usations," Zhang Qingwei retorted with a sneer.

    "Shameless," Yuan Wu paused, then suddenly turned his gaze to Yun Xiao, his voice turning venomous. "So you brought him as a witness to clear your name?"

    Before Zhang Qingwei could respond, Yuan Wu lunged, his palm striking towards Yun Xiao''s head with the force of a copsing pce, the air splitting before the blow evennded.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A blur of green and white appeared before Yun Xiao, sending the golden-eyed youth flying with a punch, blood spraying as he tumbled across the deck. It was Zhang Qingwei.

    "Injured as you are, best not court death. I''d rather not lose my only witness," she stated coldly.

    "Bravo! Bravo!" the golden-eyed youth sneered, spitting a mouthful of dark blood and ring daggers at Zhang Qingwei. "Look at you, lowborn, daring to stand against me. Spare a thought for your kin and pals; pitiful lot, they are."

    Zhang Qingwei just shook her head, gesturing towards the chaos below. "The Nine Hells face catastrophe, countless souls on the brink, and here you are, shirking me. You''re the epitome of low."

    "Ha! Look who''s high and mighty now. Sitting pretty in the Primordial Ruins, acting all holier-than-thou. That''s rich!" Yuan Wu, clutching his aching chest, burst intoughter, his eyes fixed on Yun Xiao in a silent threat. If Yun Xiao dared speak against him, he''d better weigh the consequences.

    "A polite and cultured man shows his true colors when faced with adversity..." Yun Xiao wasn''t surprised by such human nature; Yuan Wu''s indulgence in his brother''s misdeeds was telling enough.

    Yun Xiao had bigger fish to fry, more concerned about the impending doom of the Nine Hells than engaging in petty squabbles.

    The colorful divine vessel buzzed out of the Nine Hells, venturing into the boundless void. Zhang Qingwei, no longer at the helm, gestured for Yun Xiao to follow her into the cabin.

    She settled into a high seat, opening a vial of a golden elixir to tend to her arm. With a flick, she opened her breastte. What was once a solid became fluid, the milk swirling in the air, captivating yet unspilled.

    "I''ve got a wound on my back, help me with it," she said nonchntly, as if it were nothing out of the ordinary.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao, calm as still water, took the jade vial and moved behind her. There, on her fair skin, hung several gory wounds, possibly left by the beast, misted with blood.

    Dabbing some of the golden elixir onto her wounds, Zhang Qingwei winced, her muscles tensing in silence.

    After a while, she covered up and asked, "Got something on your mind?"

    "You shouldn''t have taken me. My fate is with the Nine Hells," Yun Xiao replied.

    "With the Nian unleashed, overpoweringly so, staying would''ve done you no good," Zhang Qingwei retorted bluntly.

    "Abandoning themon folk to save one''s own skin doesn''t make a true path to enlightenment," Yun Xiao stated with gravity.

    Zhang Qingwei chuckled in response. "Yuan Wu doesn''t grasp this concept, yet he''s far stronger than you. What does that tell you? In the pursuit of the Heavenly Dao, the heart of the path isn''t crucial. Bloodline, heritage, status, powerthose are what truly matter."

    Yun Xiao locked eyes with her, choosing silence over words.

    "Consider it from another angle. The real solution to the Nian crisis likely lies within the Primordial Ruins. Instead of waiting here for death, it''s wiser to seek help or opportunities there," Zhang Qingwei suggested lightly.

    "Could the Primordial Ruins really ignore such a massive crisis?" Yun Xiao countered.

    "I wouldn''t know about that! Everything is a matter of cost-effectiveness. If the loss is too great, the effort too much, and the results minimal... why should the heavens falling concern us?" Zhang Qingweiughed, her sarcasm not directed at herself.

    But she had a point. In such circumstances, the sooner Yun Xiao reached the Primordial Ruins, the sooner he might find a way to avert the catastrophe.

    Staying in the Nine Hells, with limited resources, he was powerless.

    Plus, with his body double, the War Princess, and Pale Revenant back there, he had a safety in the Nine Hells, capable of handling matters in his stead.

    He needed to head to the Primordial Ruins at once!

    And as fate would have it, the Primordial Ruins were just above the Nine Hells.

    "The Primordial Ruins will be anchored nearby for about a month," Zhang Qingwei suddenly added.

    "Understood," Yun Xiao nodded. "Besides testifying for you, what else should I do?"

    He recalled their first meeting; even before the Primordial Guards werepletely gone, she had mentioned taking him up.

    "Oh, almost slipped my mind." Zhang Qingwei looked up, her gaze deepening as she spoke with an odd tone, "Lian Xi has been having a strange dream for a month."

    "Lian Xi, dreaming?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    Who was this?

    What was her dream about?

    Zhang Qingwei didn''t leave Yun Xiao in suspense for long, continuing, "In her dreams, there''s a man named Yun Xiao. ording to her description, he''s the most handsome man in the world."

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless.

    Zhang Qingwei suddenly burst intoughter, shaking her head, "She says, every night, she meets this <em>brother</em> in her dreams... and he''s not exactly gentle."

    "..." Yun Xiao was stunned again.

 Chapter 374: Refreshments at the Door!

    Chapter 374: Refreshments at the Door!

    Just outside the gates of the Immortal Asylum, the ground cracked open, volcanoes erupted, and rivers evaporated, painting a scene akin to the end of the world.

    The powerhouses of the Nine Hells, having retreated even further, watched the turmoil unfold within the Immortal Asylum with faces pale as ghosts, their hearts in a frenzy.

    The abduction of Yun Xiao by the envoys of the Primordial Ruins only added to their despair, leaving them without a pir of strength, plunging them into the depths of hopelessness.

    "The Nian has devoured the Primordial Guards!"

    "Could it be on the verge of breaking free?"

    The shadow of annihtion loomed over every man, devil, and demon, pressing down on them so heavily they could scarcely breathe.

    It was then that the Sword Warden, along with the Netherworld Emperor and Siren Empress, stepped forward.

    "Everyone is to return to their respective hells, activate the protective formations, and uphold social order to prevent chaos among the popce! Leave everything else to Exile Yun!"

    With the disappearance of the Phoenix Empress, these three stood as the remaining Genesis Spirit Realm top figureheads of the Nine Hells. Their words carried the weight of authority, representing Yun Xiao.

    "Yes!"

    Those around the Immortal Asylum, already terrified, quickly retreated.

    Chaos bred chaos, especially with the Nian on a rampage. Without a stable social order, the people would descend into despair and anarchy, leading to countless tragedies without any need for the beast''s intervention.

    Their presence here was futile.

    This wasn''t a directive left by Yun Xiao but a decision made by the Sword Warden and his peers.

    As the masses dispersed, leaving only a dozen or so of them exchanging heavy, meaningful nces, the gravity of their situation was palpable.

    "The situation''s dire, beyond our control. But like I always say, put your faith in Exile Yun," the Sword Warden said with a grave voice.

    "And let''s not forget to trust in the Primordial Ruins. After all, it was their miscalction that led us to this mess. The Primordial Ruins are our beacon of hope, our salvation ark. The chaos in the Immortal Asylum falls squarely on their shoulders," the Netherworld Emperor added, letting out a weary sigh.

    "Just you wait, the Primordial Ruins have taken a big hit this time. Maybe soon enough, someone even mightier wille down to deal with the Nian," the Siren Empress said, though her eyes were tinged with mncholy. "The only question is, what wille first? The Nian breaking free, or their arrival?"

    How much the Primordial Ruins truly cared about the cmity befalling themon folk was something they were uncertain of.

    "Now, we''re just clueless about what stage that Nian is in..."

    The Sword Warden looked out, seeing the Immortal Asylum still in violent upheaval, the Nian''s roars thunderous, shaking the foundations of the Nine Hells, sending shivers down the spine of every living soul in the cosmos.

    When would it burst forth to devour them all? Nobody knew!

    Their hearts raced as they stood there, waiting in silent agony.

    Meanwhile, in a forest on the other side, a tall deviless stood in the wind, her radiant red eyes gazing into the sky, seemingly lost in thought.

    "Why the long face staring at the sky when I''m right here?" Moon Fairy emerged from the shadows, arms crossed, somewhat bemused.

    "It''s just not the same!" the War Princess pouted.

    "How so? Moon Fairy asked.

    "You, for starters. The real you has a certain... charm. This body double of yours? At best, it''s like a little pet," the War Princess scoffed.

    "Are you worried I might get up to something with one of those fairies in the Primordial Ruins?" Moon Fairy''s gaze sharpened.

    "Stop talking nonsense. As if I''d care," the War Princessughed off.

    Moon Fairy chuckled too. Then, he stepped past the War Princess, heading towards the Immortal Asylum.

    "You''re going in?" she gasped in shock.

    "Yes," Moon Fairy nodded.

    "Why?" she pressed.

    "We need to understand its condition, figure out when it might truly break free and bring disaster upon us... That way, I can make the best use of my time in the Primordial Ruins and respond in time," Moon Fairy exined calmly.

    "Aren''t you scared? It''s terrifyingly powerful right now," the War Princess bit her lip.

    "Scared? It''s just a body double. If it dies, I''ll just conjure up another." Moon Fairy shrugged.

    The War Princess fell silent, her expression suddenly somber, "To you, I''m just like a body double, disposable at any moment, aren''t I?"

    Moon Fairy blinked, shot a re back, and huffed, "Don''t insult me. I''d rather perish than have a woman as my body double."

    "Why''s that?" the War Princess puzzled.

    "No reason." Moon Fairy, not keen on a lengthy exnation, leaped forward, morphing into a silver fox, vanishing in a shimmer before the War Princess could blink.

    "Weird as always," the War Princess mumbled, pouting and muttering to herself, "Shying away from a female form for a body double is he afraid he might fall in love with himself?"

    The thought of him, fussing over a female double, sent shivers down her spine, almost enough to make her sick.

    "Best not to mix the two, spoils the whole romance of it," she sighed, finally getting where Yun Xiao wasing from.

    "Shut up, will you? You do realize I can still hear you, right?" a voice echoed in her heart.

    "Oh, shoot..." She''d forgotten about that! Blushing furiously, her heart raced like a hare.

    Inside the Immortal Asylum, Moon Fairy, on all fours, darted through the shadowy corridors with grace.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Immortal Asylum was still shaking madly, the Nian''s roars thundering as if right beside him.

    "What in the hell..." He nced at the ground, spotting blood-red tendrils stretching out from the depths of the Immortal Asylum, creeping everywhere, somewhat resembling veins but unsure if they pulsed with blood.

    The deeper he went, the more of these fleshly tendrils he found, sprawling like branches, intertwining, nearly filling the entire Immortal Asylum. And they writhed, which was quite unsettling.

    "This Immortal Asylum''s turned into nothing short of a bloody hollow."

    What sort of creature was the Nian?

    Was it at the height of its power now or weakened?

    "A heaven-defying flesh and blood type of Seed of Creation..." Moon Fairy, fearless in the face of death, strode with a chilling gaze as he headed to the deepest part he''d been to before.

    Upon reaching that corridor, he was met with walls entangled in crimson veins, leaving but a narrow path to venture deeper. The spot where the Old Immortal was pounding the meatballs, that was just ahead!

    "This is it!" he thought, as the roars and the epicenter of the Immortal Asylum''s tremors beckoned from the front.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Far from intimidated, Moon Fairy sped up, charging into the depths with even greater fervor.

    "Listening from here, the Nian''s roars seem less furious, more pained. Maybe it''s not in its prime," he pondered, sensing a pivotal moment of tribtion ahead.

    Soon, a fleshly barrier appeared, blocking his path entirely.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Without a second thought, Moon Fairy plunged forward, his body engulfed in wild, deste mes, hitting the barrier like a meteor.

    <em>POP! POP! POP! </em>The barrier quivered and burst, its remnants raining down like a grotesque downpour.

    "I''ve made it!"

    Breaking through, Moon Fairy scrambled to his feet from the carnage.

    At that moment, a lethal presence locked onto him, an unbearable weight crushing his very soul.

    "Is it you?!" a voice roared, filled with savagery, right by his ear.

    Withstanding the immense pressure, Moon Fairy jerked his head up, his pale moonlit eyes ring defiantly ahead.

    Right there, through the crack, he spotted a beast, a crimson nightmare half in, half out, as if caught in the very act of breaking through.

    This creature, stripped of its hide, bore no fur, only flesh crisscrossed with veins, its heart a fountainhead from which rivers of blood seemed to flow, infusing the Immortal Asylum with lifeblood.

    Yun Xiao had seen his share of skinned livestock, but this, this was a sight that would haunt the stoutest of hearts. Its visage bore the majesty and terror of the great wild cats, a gaping maw lined with daggers, a visage of pure ferocity.

    Undoubtedly, this was the Nian in its truest form, half its ghastly frame forced through the gap, its skin yed by the merciless edges of the crack, blood and flesh its grim adornment.

    Desperation marked its escape, a madness that drove it to the brink, its roars not just threats but the outcry of excruciating pain.

    At this critical juncture, it would not be deterred, not by guts spilling, not by flesh tearing.

    Yet, this did not denote weakness; on the contrary, with half its form emerged, it posed a threat unparalleled since the dawn of the Immortal Asylum, its dull eyes locking onto Moon Fairy with a lethal intent.

    "You''ve seen my true form," the Nian growled, paws braced against the crack, its sinister gaze fixed on Moon Fairy.

    "And what of it?" Moon Fairy retorted, baring his teeth in defiance.

    "A mere appetizer before my grand escape," the Nian sneered, its maw widening in a grotesque smile.

    With a swift lunge, its tongue, a blood-red serpent, shot forth, ensnaring the Four-Tailed Demon Fox with an ease that belied the imminent peril.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 375: Devour, and Be Devoured

    Chapter 375: Devour, and Be Devoured

    Moon Fairy realized the vast gap in their strengths in an instant. Even half-stuck, the Nian that had devoured the Primordial Guards was leagues beyond him.

    With a vicious tear, the Nian entwined the four-tailed Moon Fairy and retracted its tongue, swallowing him whole. The beast''s cavernous maw snapped shut, cleaving Moon Fairy into two as blood sttered in a gruesome spectacle.

    "Delicious!" the Nian roared, itsughter echoing as it devoured the bifurcated Moon Fairy, sending him tumbling through its gullet into the abyss of its stomach, a pit of blood and gastric juices, where death loomed and life''s spark dimmed.

    Amidst this grisly scene, Moon Fairy, now reduced to a torso, crashed into the Nian''s stomach, a vile chamber soaked in the blood of countless corpses, engorged from its recent feast and littered with undigested remnants of the Primordial Guards.

    "Shit" Moon Fairy cursed under his breath, caught off guard by the overwhelming force. Any other would have perished by now, but not him, for he was endowed with the Divine Destion Physique.

    Within the putrid pool of blood, the half-bodied Moon Fairy''s eyes snapped open with a fierce resolve. He knew the Nian would break free within a day, unstoppable by any. The reinforcements from the Primordial Ruins would not arrive in time. Should the Nian escape, it would ravage thends in its frenzied quest for power, devouring all in its path...

    "Not on my watch, beast!" Moon Fairy gritted his teeth, dragging his half-corpse through the acidic depths of the beast''s stomach.

    With a ferocious roar, he unleashed God Devourer, a swirling vortex of white that mped down on the Nian''s stomach walls, a malevolent technique birthed from the Will of Divine Destion.

    In the belly of the Nian, Moon Fairy, with a wild grin, tore off a chunk of the beast''s flesh and gobbled it down. "Might as well be beef stew!" he chuckled to himself, feeling the surge of vast power from the bite, courtesy of the Seed of Creation within. Despite losing half his body, his spirit soared.

    The Nian, in its final struggle to break free, never anticipated its own insides turning against it. Writhing in sudden agony, it convulsed, trapped by the pain.

    Moon Fairy, now a mere <em>snack</em> it had swallowed, was fighting back, a twist the Nian hadn''t foreseen. In response, the beast''s innards transformed, sprouting dozens of serpentine vessels, each biting and tearing at Moon Fairy with ferocity, intending to reduce him to pulp.

    Yet, even as Yun Xiao, connected to Moon Fairy from afar, felt the echo of this torment, a n formed.

    "Hold fast," Blue Star urged, "The Divine Destion Physique isn''t so easily vanquished. You''ve absorbed some of the Seed of Creation; redirect that power into its veins. Use its body as your own. If you seed, its self-destruction is assured!"

    Moon Fairy, reduced to a formless essence within the Immortal Asylum,tched onto the Nian''s lifeline. In this bizarre feast of mutual consumption, he was at a disadvantage due to the sheer size difference. "If I can''t outeat you, I''ll be an unwee guest within you!" he roared, channeling the force of the Will of Divine Destion into the Nian, shrinking as he consumed more of its flesh, a parasite turning the predator''s body against itself.

    In the end, the Nian devoured Moon Fairy quicker, grinding him into nothing but a memory and a smear inside its gullet. With a roar of victory that shook the heavens, it reared its head, veins bulging like serpents on its neck, smirking at the folly of its prey.

    Like a monstrous newborn, it wed at its prison walls, bones crunching, flesh twisting, desperate to break free from its aeons-old chains. The pain of endless captivity wasnt for the faint-hearted.

    Energized by its meal, the Nian''s struggles intensified, causing the Immortal Asylum to quake, stirring the otherworldly denizens from their slumber and adding an eerie tension to the air.

    Just as freedom seemed within its grasp, its strength ebbed away in an instant, its head crashing down in a bloody heap. "What''s going on!?" it blinked in disbelief, gazing at its suddenly feeble form.

    It wasn''t just a loss of strength but aplete betrayal of its own body. As it tried to w its way out once more, its legs jerked backward, dragging its bulk away, leaving nothing but its head peeking out.

    "Dammit!" The Nian was bbergasted, its body rebelling like a horse refusing the bit. It made onest desperate lunge for freedom, only to be yanked back again, as if by an invisiblesso, leaving it floundering and utterly bamboozled by its own rebellious flesh.

    So close, yet so far! In a fit of rage, the Nian roared, its face a twisted mask of fury. It felt something strange withinawork of moon-white veins sprouting inside, weaving through its flesh like a new system, tugging at its muscles and bones alongside its original sinews.

    These eerie, pale tendrils reminded the Nian of Moon Fairy, who it had just devoured.

    "Impossible!" it thought, thrashing wildly to escape. Yet, those moon-white veins pulled back, contorting its body into a grotesque form, its organs twisted, bones and muscles torn asunder without yielding any escape.

    Driven to the brink of madness, the Nian''s mouth moved involuntarily, uttering in a voice not its own.

    "How do I taste? It was the voice of the very Moon Fairy it had consumed.

    In an instant, the Nian''s face contorted again as it bellowed, "What in the hell are you?" The thought of something growing inside, wresting control alongside its own, was enough to chill any creature to the bone.

    Such a bewildering turn of events left even the Nian, with all its worldly experience, utterly dumbfounded.

    "What I was before doesn''t matter," came Moon Fairy''s voice once more, chilling in its calmness. "From this day forward, I am you."

    With a roar of defiance, the Nian wed at its own flesh in a desperate bid to extract the moon-white veins that had ensnared its very insides, entangling organs and bones in a cruel embrace. The more it pulled, the more it entangled itself, its own roars of agony echoing its torment.

    "Face it, you''re not getting out of this jam with me around. You might as well be back in the womb, getting ready for a do-over," Moon Fairy taunted with a chillingugh.

    The Nian howled, struggling against its own body, a gruesome sight of blood and broken bones. It was a battle on two fronts, against both the external world and its own rebellious flesh.

    "Why bother?" Moon Fairy mused, watching the Nian''s futile efforts.

    "You''d understand <em>why</em> if you were locked up for a lifetime," the Nian retorted through its howls, dragging its battered form forward, slowly adapting to Moon Fairy''s sabotage.

    It seemed Moon Fairy''sst-ditch effort only slowed the Nian''s escape, hinting that a final resolution would require the true presence from the Primordial Ruins.

    This whole ordeal could be summed up in two wordsutterly terrifying.

    Back on the colorful divine ark, Yun Xiao was catching his breath, drenched in cold sweat, as the ark trembled slightly.

    Then, a voice broke through, "Come out, we''ve arrived at the Primordial Ruins."

 Chapter 377: Burn a World!

    Chapter 377: Burn a World!

    After hearing the instructions, Yun Xiao nodded his head. He needed help, and even if this was all in a day''s work for the other party, respect was due. But the pride and authority radiating from the authorities of the Primordial Ruins did rub him the wrong way a tad.

    "Thedder up the Immortal path is a steep climb, and those perched high do tend to get a bit big for their britches... But a touch ofpassion for themon folk can cover a multitude of sins," Yun Xiao mused. He decided to see how this Dao Titan was about to quiz him.

    About seven folks were milling around this golden hall, all high and mighty powers of the Primordial Ruins, with the one who''d just spoken likely being Yuan Xianjun.

    Then, with a deep voice, Yuan Xianjun asked, "You dabble in both the sword and the sigils?"

    Yun Xiao blinked, taken aback. That was the icebreaker?

    "Sword and sigil, both?" Zhang Qingwei and Yuan Wu were equally gobsmacked, their expressions a kaleidoscope of surprise.

    Zhang Qingwei seemed pleased, probably delighted for Yun Xiao. But it wasn''t the time for back-pping.

    Under the scrutiny of several intense stares, Yun Xiao nodded. The sigil etched on his brow was a dead giveaway of his powers as an Inscription Cultivator.

    Yuan Wu and Zhang Qinglian had pegged him for an Inscription Cultivator through and through, but Yuan Xianjun, sizing him up, figured him for a Sword Cultivator as well.

    "Show us," Yuan Xianjun boomed.

    Yun Xiao rolled up his sleeves, conjuring an azure Sword Soul on his palm, while the Prison Warden Sigil made its appearance on his forehead.

    Sword and sigil, clear as day, with the Sword Ring count deliberately capped at seven.

    "Passable," Yuan Xianjun dered.

    At that, Yun Xiao stowed away Heaven Burial and Prison Warden. It was clear as day that not even Yuan Xianjun could sniff out the true marvel of these divine artifacts.

    Then, like the previous exchange was water under the bridge, Yuan Xianjun steered the conversation back to the matter of the Nian, asking Yun Xiao in an even tone, "Did you witness, with your own two eyes, the Nian breaking free and wreaking havoc?"

    Yun Xiao nodded.

    Casting a nce at Zhang Qingwei beside him, Yuan Xianjun''s voice took on a grave note, "Is what Zhang Qingwei ims the truth? That Yuan Wu''s underestimation led to the annihtion of the Primordial Guards, not only failing to assist but actually aiding in the Nian''s escape?"

    As the words piled on, heavier with each syble, they thundered in Yun Xiao''s ears like a storm, leaving a ringing in his head. With a cough that was anything but friendly, Yuan Wu''s barely veiled threat was as clear as daylight. But Zhang Qingwei stood by Yun Xiao, her gaze unwavering, a pir of support in a sea of doubt.

    For Yun Xiao, there was no hemming and hawing about it; this was about dodging a bullet, nothing more, nothing less. And so, under the scorching scrutiny of the crowd, he nodded once more, his gesture setting off a chill in Yuan Wu''s stare while bringing a sigh of relief to Zhang Qingwei.

    She nced at Yuan Wu, then turned to Yuan Xianjun with a bow, "Esteemed immortals, the Nian yed us for fools, and Yuan Wu was but momentarily deceived. I beseech you to show leniency, for the sake of understanding."

    Her plea, aiming to lighten the blow for Yuan Wu, showcased her savviness. After all, Yuan Wu was family to Yuan Xianjun, and while justice demanded its due, face-saving was part of the dance.

    Zhang Qingwei, after her plea for mercy, lowered her gaze in solemn respect, "The Nian is on the loose, potentially bringing cmity to the innocent. It''s imperative we alert the Primordial Ruins and nip this disaster in the bud, lest we court a catastrophe."

    Her words echoed Yun Xiao''s thoughts, earning her a notch up in his esteem.

    But as Zhang Qingwei made her case, Yuan Xianjun rose, the air in the golden hall thickening with solemnity. With a stroke of his beard and a piercing gaze, he acknowledged, "You speak the truth. Vanquishing cmities and safeguarding worlds is our unshirkable duty."

    Zhang Qingwei''s tension eased slightly with Yuan Xianjun''s wise acknowledgment, her worried frown rxing into a hopeful gaze.

    Just as the atmosphere seemed to be clearing, Yuan Xianjun''s hand flickered, and a sh of gold shot from his sleeve.

    In an instant, a crimson bloom exploded from Zhang Qingwei''s forehead, a mist of blood painting a grim picture behind her. Eyes wide with disbelief, she fixed her gaze on Yuan Xianjun, her expression a silent scream of betrayal.

    After staggering back three paces, she wore a look of profound befuddlement, copsing to the ground with a soft thud.

    She was gone, just like that.

    The strike was so sudden, Yun Xiao hadn''t seen iting, not by a long shot.

    He was at his most rxed, and that de might as well have been for him, hitting him square between the eyes and blowing his mind, quite literally.

    He couldn''t even be sure if, in the face of such an abrupt onught, Blue Star and Red Moon could have reacted in time...

    First shock, then a chill ran down Yun Xiao''s spine, soaking him in cold sweat.

    He nced to his left, where Zhang Qingweiy, her eyes wide with despair, meeting his gaze... That pitiable look sparked a towering inferno of rage within Yun Xiao.

    Why her? She was just following orders, where did she go wrong?

    Yun Xiao''s chest burned with fury, yet he couldn''t make heads or tails of this Dao Titan and his actions.

    Yuan Xianjun had taken Zhang Qingwei''s life, and the other authorities didn''t bat an eyelid.

    It was Yuan Wu who looked like he''d seen a ghost, ashen-faced and dropping to his knees, his breathing heavy, his expression bewildered.

    "Are all who knew of the Nian''s escapade now silenced?" Yuan Xianjun asked Yuan Wu, as if he''d done nothing more than swat a fly, his tone even.

    "All gone, great ancestor!" Yuan Wu managed through clenched teeth, his voice trembling, "Just me and my brother left, but we''ll keep our mouths shut."

    "Rx, the two of you are family," Yuan Xianjun suddenly said, with a chuckle.

    And then, theughter spread, the six other formidable figures of Primordial Ruins joining in.

    "Yuan Xianjun, you''ve scared the boy."

    "Don''t panic."

    Hearing theirughter, Yuan Wu''s taut nerves finally eased.

    And then, a dark thought crept into his mind.

    "They can''t handle the Nian, so they deal with the whistleblower instead?"

    Otherwise, Yuan Wu couldn''t fathom why they''d suddenly taken out Zhang Qingwei...

    "Yuan Xianjun, should we report this matter of the Nian to the three True Immortals?" an elder with white hair and beard inquired.

    Yuan Xianjun, garbed in a robe of gold and ck, with brows long and white, bore a face of stern righteousness. He murmured, "Turning the Nian into an Ascension Pill for the three True Immortals would work wonders."

    "Indeed," came the nods of agreement. "The three True Immortals said the remains of the Nian are the finest catalyst for the Ascension Pill, a pity it was trapped in the Immortal Asylum..."

    "But now, it''s shown itself!"

    The elders mused, leaving Yuan Wu befuddled. "Great ancestor, did we silence Zhang Qingwei to keep the glory to ourselves, to prevent others from sharing the credit?"

    Yuan Xianjun shook his head, his expression chilling. "Not quite... Our only way to y the Nian is one."

    "And that is?" Yuan Wu inquired.

    "Burn the world," Yuan Xianjun said, almost casually.

    "Burn the world? As in, set the entire Nine Hells aze to destroy it with the power of such congration?" Yuan Wu gasped.

    "What else? The scrolls say the beast is undying. Even after years of imprisonment, with only its withered remains left, we must summon the power to burn the world, gather the spirits of all living beings, the essence of the world, the bnce of Yin and Yang, and use the resentment of all beings to burn its karma and annihte its soul," Yuan Xianjun said, his gaze piercing the horizon.

    "Right, the more it devours, the stronger it bes. If we confront it directly and it seizes the chance to strengthen, it''d spell trouble. By burning the world, we''d even cut off its sustenance, leaving it no chance to grow," Yuan Wu realized, looking up to Yuan Xianjun and the others with newfound respect.

    He finally understood why Yuan Xianjun had swiftly ended Zhang Qingwei.

    "Too many naive do-gooders in the Primordial Ruins, the matter of burning the world needs decisive action, better done than debated. Once word gets out, it''d be toote to execute." With this thought, Yuan Wu''s spirit surged.

    His eyes zing, he eagerly asked Yuan Xianjun, "Great ancestor, can the Ascension Pill made from the Nian truly grant us ascension to be True Immortals above the clouds?"

    "What do you think?" Yuan Xianjun replied with a smile.

    Would they go to such lengths if it weren''t immensely valuable?

    "For one to ascend, billions must fall; such is the harsh truth of the path to immortality," Yuan Xianjun said, eyes twinkling, clearly in high spirits.

    "But then, such a divine object, do we really need to offer it to the ''Tri-Immortal Assembly''? Wouldn''t it be better for the great ancestor himself to..."

    Yuan Wu''s words were cut short as he suddenly felt an immense pressure bearing down upon him!

    He looked up in terror to meet Yuan Xianjun''s cold gaze, as if staring into two suns in the sky.

    "I misspoke!" Yuan Wu frantically bowed, his face drained of color.

    Yuan Xianjun put a finger to his lips, shushing him with a cryptic expression.

    "Let''s go," he said to the others.

    Six figures rose to follow, clearly eager tomence the burning of the realm.

    Act now, reportter!

    Yuan Wu''s fervor was rekindled.

    "Ah, right!" He suddenly looked up, casting a cold smile at Yun Xiao. "Great ancestor, what shall we do with this one?"

 Chapter 377: Burn a World!

    Chapter 377: Burn a World!

    After hearing the instructions, Yun Xiao nodded his head. He needed help, and even if this was all in a day''s work for the other party, respect was due. But the pride and authority radiating from the authorities of the Primordial Ruins did rub him the wrong way a tad.

    "Thedder up the Immortal path is a steep climb, and those perched high do tend to get a bit big for their britches... But a touch ofpassion for themon folk can cover a multitude of sins," Yun Xiao mused. He decided to see how this Dao Titan was about to quiz him.

    About seven folks were milling around this golden hall, all high and mighty powers of the Primordial Ruins, with the one who''d just spoken likely being Yuan Xianjun.

    Then, with a deep voice, Yuan Xianjun asked, "You dabble in both the sword and the sigils?"

    Yun Xiao blinked, taken aback. That was the icebreaker?

    "Sword and sigil, both?" Zhang Qingwei and Yuan Wu were equally gobsmacked, their expressions a kaleidoscope of surprise.

    Zhang Qingwei seemed pleased, probably delighted for Yun Xiao. But it wasn''t the time for back-pping.

    Under the scrutiny of several intense stares, Yun Xiao nodded. The sigil etched on his brow was a dead giveaway of his powers as an Inscription Cultivator.

    Yuan Wu and Zhang Qinglian had pegged him for an Inscription Cultivator through and through, but Yuan Xianjun, sizing him up, figured him for a Sword Cultivator as well.

    "Show us," Yuan Xianjun boomed.

    Yun Xiao rolled up his sleeves, conjuring an azure Sword Soul on his palm, while the Prison Warden Sigil made its appearance on his forehead.

    Sword and sigil, clear as day, with the Sword Ring count deliberately capped at seven.

    "Passable," Yuan Xianjun dered.

    At that, Yun Xiao stowed away Heaven Burial and Prison Warden. It was clear as day that not even Yuan Xianjun could sniff out the true marvel of these divine artifacts.

    Then, like the previous exchange was water under the bridge, Yuan Xianjun steered the conversation back to the matter of the Nian, asking Yun Xiao in an even tone, "Did you witness, with your own two eyes, the Nian breaking free and wreaking havoc?"

    Yun Xiao nodded.

    Casting a nce at Zhang Qingwei beside him, Yuan Xianjun''s voice took on a grave note, "Is what Zhang Qingwei ims the truth? That Yuan Wu''s underestimation led to the annihtion of the Primordial Guards, not only failing to assist but actually aiding in the Nian''s escape?"

    As the words piled on, heavier with each syble, they thundered in Yun Xiao''s ears like a storm, leaving a ringing in his head. With a cough that was anything but friendly, Yuan Wu''s barely veiled threat was as clear as daylight. But Zhang Qingwei stood by Yun Xiao, her gaze unwavering, a pir of support in a sea of doubt.

    For Yun Xiao, there was no hemming and hawing about it; this was about dodging a bullet, nothing more, nothing less. And so, under the scorching scrutiny of the crowd, he nodded once more, his gesture setting off a chill in Yuan Wu''s stare while bringing a sigh of relief to Zhang Qingwei.

    She nced at Yuan Wu, then turned to Yuan Xianjun with a bow, "Esteemed immortals, the Nian yed us for fools, and Yuan Wu was but momentarily deceived. I beseech you to show leniency, for the sake of understanding."

    Her plea, aiming to lighten the blow for Yuan Wu, showcased her savviness. After all, Yuan Wu was family to Yuan Xianjun, and while justice demanded its due, face-saving was part of the dance.

    Zhang Qingwei, after her plea for mercy, lowered her gaze in solemn respect, "The Nian is on the loose, potentially bringing cmity to the innocent. It''s imperative we alert the Primordial Ruins and nip this disaster in the bud, lest we court a catastrophe."

    Her words echoed Yun Xiao''s thoughts, earning her a notch up in his esteem.

    But as Zhang Qingwei made her case, Yuan Xianjun rose, the air in the golden hall thickening with solemnity. With a stroke of his beard and a piercing gaze, he acknowledged, "You speak the truth. Vanquishing cmities and safeguarding worlds is our unshirkable duty."

    Zhang Qingwei''s tension eased slightly with Yuan Xianjun''s wise acknowledgment, her worried frown rxing into a hopeful gaze.

    Just as the atmosphere seemed to be clearing, Yuan Xianjun''s hand flickered, and a sh of gold shot from his sleeve.

    In an instant, a crimson bloom exploded from Zhang Qingwei''s forehead, a mist of blood painting a grim picture behind her. Eyes wide with disbelief, she fixed her gaze on Yuan Xianjun, her expression a silent scream of betrayal.

    After staggering back three paces, she wore a look of profound befuddlement, copsing to the ground with a soft thud.

    She was gone, just like that.

    The strike was so sudden, Yun Xiao hadn''t seen iting, not by a long shot.

    He was at his most rxed, and that de might as well have been for him, hitting him square between the eyes and blowing his mind, quite literally.

    He couldn''t even be sure if, in the face of such an abrupt onught, Blue Star and Red Moon could have reacted in time...

    First shock, then a chill ran down Yun Xiao''s spine, soaking him in cold sweat.

    He nced to his left, where Zhang Qingweiy, her eyes wide with despair, meeting his gaze... That pitiable look sparked a towering inferno of rage within Yun Xiao.

    Why her? She was just following orders, where did she go wrong?

    Yun Xiao''s chest burned with fury, yet he couldn''t make heads or tails of this Dao Titan and his actions.

    Yuan Xianjun had taken Zhang Qingwei''s life, and the other authorities didn''t bat an eyelid.

    It was Yuan Wu who looked like he''d seen a ghost, ashen-faced and dropping to his knees, his breathing heavy, his expression bewildered.

    "Are all who knew of the Nian''s escapade now silenced?" Yuan Xianjun asked Yuan Wu, as if he''d done nothing more than swat a fly, his tone even.

    "All gone, great ancestor!" Yuan Wu managed through clenched teeth, his voice trembling, "Just me and my brother left, but we''ll keep our mouths shut."

    "Rx, the two of you are family," Yuan Xianjun suddenly said, with a chuckle.

    And then, theughter spread, the six other formidable figures of Primordial Ruins joining in.

    "Yuan Xianjun, you''ve scared the boy."

    "Don''t panic."

    Hearing theirughter, Yuan Wu''s taut nerves finally eased.

    And then, a dark thought crept into his mind.

    "They can''t handle the Nian, so they deal with the whistleblower instead?"

    Otherwise, Yuan Wu couldn''t fathom why they''d suddenly taken out Zhang Qingwei...

    "Yuan Xianjun, should we report this matter of the Nian to the three True Immortals?" an elder with white hair and beard inquired.

    Yuan Xianjun, garbed in a robe of gold and ck, with brows long and white, bore a face of stern righteousness. He murmured, "Turning the Nian into an Ascension Pill for the three True Immortals would work wonders."

    "Indeed," came the nods of agreement. "The three True Immortals said the remains of the Nian are the finest catalyst for the Ascension Pill, a pity it was trapped in the Immortal Asylum..."

    "But now, it''s shown itself!"

    The elders mused, leaving Yuan Wu befuddled. "Great ancestor, did we silence Zhang Qingwei to keep the glory to ourselves, to prevent others from sharing the credit?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yuan Xianjun shook his head, his expression chilling. "Not quite... Our only way to y the Nian is one."

    "And that is?" Yuan Wu inquired.

    "Burn the world," Yuan Xianjun said, almost casually.

    "Burn the world? As in, set the entire Nine Hells aze to destroy it with the power of such congration?" Yuan Wu gasped.

    "What else? The scrolls say the beast is undying. Even after years of imprisonment, with only its withered remains left, we must summon the power to burn the world, gather the spirits of all living beings, the essence of the world, the bnce of Yin and Yang, and use the resentment of all beings to burn its karma and annihte its soul," Yuan Xianjun said, his gaze piercing the horizon.

    "Right, the more it devours, the stronger it bes. If we confront it directly and it seizes the chance to strengthen, it''d spell trouble. By burning the world, we''d even cut off its sustenance, leaving it no chance to grow," Yuan Wu realized, looking up to Yuan Xianjun and the others with newfound respect.

    He finally understood why Yuan Xianjun had swiftly ended Zhang Qingwei.

    "Too many naive do-gooders in the Primordial Ruins, the matter of burning the world needs decisive action, better done than debated. Once word gets out, it''d be toote to execute." With this thought, Yuan Wu''s spirit surged.

    His eyes zing, he eagerly asked Yuan Xianjun, "Great ancestor, can the Ascension Pill made from the Nian truly grant us ascension to be True Immortals above the clouds?"

    "What do you think?" Yuan Xianjun replied with a smile.

    Would they go to such lengths if it weren''t immensely valuable?

    "For one to ascend, billions must fall; such is the harsh truth of the path to immortality," Yuan Xianjun said, eyes twinkling, clearly in high spirits.

    "But then, such a divine object, do we really need to offer it to the ''Tri-Immortal Assembly''? Wouldn''t it be better for the great ancestor himself to..."

    Yuan Wu''s words were cut short as he suddenly felt an immense pressure bearing down upon him!

    He looked up in terror to meet Yuan Xianjun''s cold gaze, as if staring into two suns in the sky.

    "I misspoke!" Yuan Wu frantically bowed, his face drained of color.

    Yuan Xianjun put a finger to his lips, shushing him with a cryptic expression.

    "Let''s go," he said to the others.

    Six figures rose to follow, clearly eager tomence the burning of the realm.

    Act now, reportter!

    Yuan Wu''s fervor was rekindled.

    "Ah, right!" He suddenly looked up, casting a cold smile at Yun Xiao. "Great ancestor, what shall we do with this one?"

 Chapter 378: The Ugliness of Society

    Chapter 378: The Ugliness of Society

    "He''s a rare gem, mastering both the sword and sigils, keep him in the celestial prison for now. I''ll deal with him once I return from my world burning journey." Yuan Xianjun nced at Yun Xiao, almost seeing him as an experimental mouse.

    Clearly, for Yuan Xianjun, mastering both the sword and sigils was of great significance, second only to the Nian! An unexpected delight, indeed. That was precisely why Yun Xiao wasn''t pierced through by a single strike!

    From the get-go, Yuan Xianjun''s inquiry about Yun Xiao''s dual mastery hinted at his murderous intentions towards Zhang Qingwei.

    Had Yun Xiao not been a dual cultivator, could he have met his demise just now? Would the reaction of Blue Star and Red Moon have been swift enough? For Yun Xiao, these questions no longer mattered.

    What mattered was the vivid disy by this group from the Sky Source Ruins, showcasing the cruelty, selfishness, andwlessness of those at the higher echelons of cultivation.

    Such was human nature! In their quest for ascension, they''d kill and burn worlds without a second thought, all in a day''s work!

    Though human, what Yun Xiao saw were hearts more twisted than any demon''s. This wasn''t to say all humanity was twisted, butpared to demons, the depths of human depravity could be far lower!

    The casual banter of these people threw Yun Xiao into an abyss of sin and darkness.

    After setting Yun Xiao''s fate, Yuan Xianjun and hispanions vanished in a sh, pressed for time. This left only Yun Xiao and Yuan Wu in the cold, golden hall.

    "Heh" With a kick, Yuan Wu sent Zhang Qingwei''s corpse flying, hisugh contorted into a grotesque snarl.

    "I recall you saying, those halfway up the celestialdder have no right to mock those at the base," Yun Xiao stated coldly, his eyes a dark red as he red at Yuan Wu.

    "Exactly," Yuan Wu shrugged, "What''s there to mock? Not on the same level, just crush them. Wasting words only diminishes one''s stature."

    "..." Yun Xiao was left speechless.

    "What, getting anxious because your loved ones and friends are about to be incinerated?" Yuan Wu sneered, "You had a smart way out, but you chose folly! Your survival till now, with such a dimwit brain in the vast cosmos, is a sheer fluke. In the Primordial Ruins, without any talent, you wouldn''tst a day."

    Yun Xiao muttered to himself, "Never thought humanity could sink this low."

    It was a real eye-opener for him. The Primordial Ruins threw a harsh lesson his way right off the bata wake-up call that made him forget any goodness in the mundane world, confronting him with the bloody reality of human nature.

    "Humanity''s lowest?" Yuan Wu shrugged with a sneer. "You think cultivating is child''s y? The heavenlydder of cultivation is all about hierarchy. Climb one step, and you overshadow millions. Talent aside, resources and power dictate your fate. This is the natural order''s battlegroundtriumph and you reach the heavens, lose and you''re dust. The so-called righteous are long gone. Only in your world do naively pure souls like you still exist."

    Yun Xiao''s face frosted over. "I''ve learned my lesson," he said.

    "Regrets? Toote," Yuan Wu scoffed. "Just behave, and let my great ancestor study your secrets. Who knows? You might just survive."

    Yun Xiao remained silent, aware of what he truly needed to do amidst this catastrophe. He came to the Primordial Ruins seeking help. Little did he expect to bring a greater disaster upon the Nine Hells.

    "Ironic, isn''t it? The Nian hadn''t yet brought the apocalyptic catastrophe, but those meant to save us have started the ughter..."

    Was this the Primordial Ruins? A holynd for cultivators? The guardian deity of myriad worlds?

    Yun Xiao didn''t know the entirety of the Primordial Ruins, but the Sky Source Ruins he saw were rife with sin, selfishness, darkness, and brutality.

    "Still, one can''t judge the whole by a part. I hope there''s still some humanity left in the Primordial Ruins!" Yun Xiao clung to a fierce me in his heart. The world might be dark, but there was always someone lighting a torch, guiding others, right?

    He wanted to be that torchbearer!

    "Move!" Yuan Wu barked, ushering him to follow.

    Yun Xiao''sst nce fell on Zhang Qingwei, lying there, her eyes wide open in death.

    She, too, was a torchbearer. Perhaps too bright, for those lurking in the dark snuffed out her light in their frenzy. His acquaintance with her was brief, yet her death etched a deep mark on his heart, fueling an undying rage.

    "I''m sorry," Yun Xiao whispered, eyes closed, turning to leave. "I''ll seek justice for you!"

    Stepping out of the golden hall into the shadows, they were greeted by a young man with silver eyes.

    "Big Brother," Yuan Fu bowed. He''d also appeared in the Nine Hells and was the one who healed the Phoenix Empress. "About the Nia"

    Yuan Wu shushed him before he could continue, "Not another word about that day."

    "Understood!" Yuan Fu caught on quick, something big was afoot.

    His gaze shifted to Yun Xiao, raising an eyebrow, "This one needs silencing?"

    "Lock him in the celestial prison, keep him quiet." Yuan Wu chuckled.

    "I can do quiet," Yuan Fu smirked, tapping his forehead, and a silver sigil sealed Yun Xiao''s lips tight.

    "Silenced," Yuan Wu grinned, as they chatted away, escorting Yun Xiao without a word on their lost brother, as if he was forgotten, devoured by the Nian.

    Soon, Yun Xiao was confined in a golden cell, its bars and walls inscribed with talismans, imprable even to the Genesis Spirit Realm.

    With the burning of the Nine Hells pending, the brothers didn''t dare wander, opting instead for chess outside the cell.

    "He''s quite tame," Yuan Fu noted, cing a white piece, ncing at Yun Xiao, who stood motionless inside, bewildered by the harshness of society.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    As Yuan Fu reached for another piece, his expression twisted in agony.

    "Ahhh!" His scream echoed, writhing on the ground.

    "What''s wrong, brother?" Yuan Wu rushed to him, puzzled.

    "The sigil!" Yuan Fu''s face was contorted, his body convulsing.

    "Sigil?" Yuan Wu paused, his gaze instinctively drawn towards Yun Xiao. To his astonishment, a nine-headed violet dragon sigil emerged on Yun Xiao''s forehead, fiercely attacking the silver Life Sigil on his lips!

    In just moments, the silver sigil bore nine gaping wounds, trembling in agony, on the verge of shattering. A whirlwind of 50,000 sigils, all devoured by that voracious violet dragon!

    With the silver Life Sigil unguarded and directly on Yun Xiao, it was utterly overwhelmed, bursting at the seams!

    "Yun Xiao!!" Yuan Wu roared, his face contorted in fury, transforming into a golden beam, hurtling towards Yun Xiao with murderous intent.

    Yun Xiao, emotionless, watched him approach. Even as the Prison Warden Sigil tore open, it clung desperately to the silver sigil, gnawing ferociously, while the young man with silver eyes continued to roll on the ground, screaming in agony.

    With a vicious tear, the silver sigil was ripped in half!

    "AHHH!" Yuan Fu convulsed, foaming at the mouth, his eyes rolling back in torment, clueless of what was unfolding.

    Normally, a shattered Life Sigil would simply disperse into runes, causing no severe damage, but Yun Xiao''s assault through his Life Sigil was excruciating!

    "You''re courting death!" Enraged, Yuan Wu''s golden eyes zed with a fierce, cold light.

    "I''ll settle this score with you some other day," Yun Xiao dered, before suddenly copsing backward. Behind him, a ck copper coffin emerged out of thin air. With a buzz, he fell into the coffin, and the lid mmed shut.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The coffin broke through the enchanted prison bars and vanished before Yuan Wu''s eyes.

    As Yuan Wu was about to give chase, his brother''s screams of agony intensified behind him!

    "Yun Xiao!!" His furious roar echoed, powerless to retain him.

    A quarter-hourter, Yun Xiao, slightly pale, stood at a street corner in the Primordial Ruins, with Blue Star even paler in his arms.

    "No more time." Taking a deep breath, Yun Xiao surveyed the bustling streets of the Primordial Ruins. "Let''s find Lian Xi!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 379: All-Life Devouring Gu!!

    Chapter 379: All-Life Devouring Gu!!

    At dawn''s first light, the Primordial Ruins were waking up, the sun cresting over the ship''s bow, marching towards the stern, bathing the divine vessel in a new day''s glow.

    "Salute the sun, bow to the Three True Immortals!" a voice rang out.

    Yun Xiao emerged from the shadows, the bustling market ahead alive with fervor. He paused at the corner, eyes drawn to the market''s heart where a temple, resplendent in gold, stood majestically.

    Inside, three towering idols loomed, their faces etched withpassion, overlooking the masses from on high.

    Thick incense clouded their visages, mingling with the mystic fog of gold and silver, adding an eerie aura to this holy site.

    Along the temple-front street, incense burners were ced every few yards, each brimming with offerings.

    A world steeped in heavy fragrance and devotion, where every soul was lost in reverence, faces solemn and fervent.

    "The seventh hour has struck, kneel!" boomed a voice from the temple.

    At itsmand, thousands of cultivators bowed in unison, their devotion as palpable as the incense smoke spiraling heavenward.

    Yun Xiao scanned the horizon, noticing simr temples dotting the adjoining streets, each fronted by a sea of worshippers.

    "A burner every yard, a temple on every street. Is this the essence of the Primordial Ruins?"

    Their zeal left Yun Xiao puzzled, his n to interrogate someone about Lian Xi''s whereabouts thwarted by the mass prostration.

    "With the first bow, bow to the Human Zenith Immortal," the solemn voice intoned once more.

    At its call, the crowd prostrated before the rightmost idol, a collective thud resonating as heads touched the ground.

    The entirendmass that was the Primordial Ruins quivered, the wind chimes of a nearby tavern jangling in the aftermath.

    "With the second bow, pay homage to the Mystic Earth Immortal," echoed another voice from the temple.

    The crowd, in solemn silence, turned towards the leftmost idol, bowing once more, sending the Primordial Ruins into another tremble.

    "Third bow, for the Sky Source Immortal!" guided the temple''s voice, leading the masses in a reverent prostration towards the central figure.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The most intense quake yet shook the Primordial Ruins, even cracking the gstones under Yun Xiao''s feet.

    "How many people are bowing in unison?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but marvel.

    It was utterly astonishing.

    And eerily peculiar!

    Scanning the crowd, it was clear even to the untrained eye that even themon folk here were of a high caliber, most treading the Second Dao Tribtion in their cultivation journey!

    Nearby, a few were even at the Genesis Spirit Realm, and further afield, undoubtedly, were those of even greater power.

    Who could guess their cultivation?

    "Back in the Sky Source Ruins, those people mentioned Three True Immortals in their conversion. They should have even a higher status than that Yuan Xianjun," Yun Xiao squinted towards the temple''s three idols.

    No doubt about it, the Human Zenith Immortal, Mystic Earth Immortal, and Sky Source Immortal had to be the revered Three True Immortals.

    And the Sky Source Ruins likely had ties to the Sky Source Immortal.''

    But for now, these three seemed uninvolved with the world burning business.

    "Still not rising?" Yun Xiao expected the crowd to disperse post-bow, each to their own business, yet there they remained, knelt even after the homage was paid.

    "After worshiping the Immortals, one may pursue the path of cultivation!"

    At this moment, an elder with white hair and beard, exuding an aura of a sage, emerged from the temple.

    Hisplexion was ruddy, his presence nearly rivaling that of the Yuan Xianjun.

    Another titan in the world of immortals!

    "Kinda formidable," Yun Xiao thought, impressed. Zhang Qingwei was strong, but to see her fall in a blink to Yuan Xianjun''s sword showed the Primordial Ruins truly were a den of dragons and tigers, soaring above countless realms.

    Under Yun Xiao''s watchful eye, the temple elder, with a smile that could light up the darkest corners, proimed to the disciplined crowd, "Remember, diligent practice of the Ascension Technique breaks the five decays and leads you to the heavenly pce!"

    The crowd''s eyes sparkled as they chanted in unison, "Diligent practice of the Ascension Technique, break the five decays, to the heavenly pce!"

    "With the dawn''s light, all hearts and spirits rise! Begin the practice!" the elder said with a grin that was all warmth and wisdom.

    "Yes!" The crowd responded in perfect harmony, shifting from kneeling to sitting.

    Heads held high, chests puffed out, in utter solemnity, they began to circte their cultivation techniques right there on the street, seeking enlightenment.

    The hum of sacred power buzzed around them, a collective cultivation session so powerful it seemed to shake the very air.

    Yun Xiao saw the spiraling light of sacred power on thousands, converging and rising like a spiral towards the heavensa tangible sense of ascension.

    The light from the <em>celestial sun</em> at the divine vessel''s bow mingled with these spiraling forces, casting everyone in a golden hue.

    It was the picture of health and vigor, amidst the thick incense smokea vivid scene of a whole popce devoted to the path of cultivationid bare before Yun Xiao.

    "All of them, cultivating with the sunrise... Seems the effect is indeed remarkable. No wonder they''re all so advanced."

    Initially finding the scene somewhat eerie, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but be struck by awe after a closer look.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    A single street, tens of thousands of people, their collective energy forming a golden vortex overhead, soaring skyward, each individual thriving from the shared momentum, their progress unstoppable.

    "Only in the Primordial Ruins," Yun Xiao mused, having witnessed a higher path of cultivation, the mortal in him couldn''t help but feel a touch moved.

    "Hogwash," Blue Star suddenly scoffed. "Take a closer look behind the facade."

    "Something amiss?" Yun Xiao peered closer, noticing each cultivator lost in a state of utter self-forgetfulness, their cultivation growing increasingly... fervent.

    "Hmm?" ncing up, Yun Xiao spotted three ethereal figures atop the golden whirlwind, seemingly appearing out of nowhere. They loomed like mountains over everyone, their forms eerily twisting with the vortex''s spin.

    "Practice diligently for ascension, break through the five decays, and ascend to the heavenly pce..." the crowd chanted, their expressions slipping into vacant stares.

    The Primordial Ruins fell eerily silent at this moment, giving Yun Xiao a chilling realization: it was as if there wasn''t a single living soul around.

    "How could this be?" Yun Xiao whispered to Blue Star.

    "This is a Gu nurturing immortal cultivation method called the All-Life Devouring Gu, a forbidden art that feeds on the souls and beliefs of the many to bolster one''s own path, one of the darkest methods in the realm of cultivation," Blue Star exined with a grim chuckle.

    "But they all look so vibrant after their practice," Yun Xiao puzzled.

    "Just a facade. The power they cultivate isn''t truly theirs. By the Second Dao Tribtion, most will age rapidly and die, their souls consumed. The cruelest part? Their souls are so eroded by the practice, they''ll never realize the truth. Even if you told them, they''d think you''re the fool," Blue Star said coldly.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze shifted to the temple, eyeing the three idols, "Is it the work of those Three True Immortals?"

 Chapter 380: Primordial Pagoda!

    Chapter 380: Primordial Pagoda!

    "What do you think? The incense is burning bright, and these folks are kneeling like brainwashed zealots. Those three up there are also close to ascending. This situation is a lot trickier to deal with than the Nian breaking free" Blue Star said. Then pping a furry paw to his forehead, he came to a realization. "Here I was wondering why this sacrednd of Immortal cultivation would birth an incarnation of transcending cmity! It''s clear a sickness has rooted itself deep into thend. Perhaps this is the real humanity wiping cmity!

    "You mean that girl, Lian Xi?" Yun Xiao was now sure of it. That girl was undoubtedly the same as Chen Xi, a reincarnation of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor! And here she was, once again!

    "So, you''re telling me that the Primordial Ruins, once a haven for the humans of myriad worlds, now suffers from a deep rot? Everyone''s been bewitched, and that''s why the evil has been able to grow unrestrained? That includes those people in the Sky Origin Ruins? The fact that they''re willing to burn a whole world to refine a treasure shows their inner rot, I suppose," Yun Xiao said gravely.

    "Exactly! The All Life Devouring Gu is a forbidden art because of its endless greed. Those <em>T</em>hree <em>True Immortals</em>, using the Primordial Ruins as their base of operations, aim not just to conquer this sacrednd but to sweep through all worlds. If we let them spread this so-called <em>Ascension Technique</em> and bring people into their soul collective Forget the myriad worlds. Let them run amok in just a few worlds, and even if an actual High Immortal were to descend from the heavens, they might just meet their end here," Blue Star exined.

    "How bad is it now?" Yun Xiao looked upon the bustling Primordial Ruins, his voice a heavy low.

    "By the looks of it, pretty dire," Blue Star said, face in palm, tired.

    "Alright then," Yun Xiao understood the situation. He hadn''t met Lian Xi yet. But when he thought of Chen Xi, he could onlyment, "Such a tragic fate for a girl. To be reborn endlessly in worlds of turmoil."

    For ages, the Divine Continent had been oppressed by the Demon Continent, with countless humans suffering tragic deaths. Then, she was born, emerging boldly as humanity''s light.

    And now, with the Primordial Ruins bing a nest for three parasites, threatening to swallow myriad words. She emerged again!

    What kind of fate and life was this?

    "Primordial Immortal Ancestor," Yun Xiao whispered, feeling a mix of emotions. She was his greatest foe. Yet, what she did, and what he wanted to do, often aligned in principle. "Forget it. Out of sight, out of mind!"

    With another disaster looming over the Nine Hells, he had no time to dwell on things in the far future. He wasn''t even sure if he should get involved with the situation in the Primordial Ruins!

    Seeing folks still lost in their trance, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but feel frustrated. He was running out of time! He could only take a risk! He darted into an alley, passing by a few corners, before his gaze locked on a boy in the corner.

    The boy looked about twelve years old, with messy hair. He was also looking up at the sky and trying to practice the ascension technique.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Yun Xiao appeared like a specter, one hand muffling the boy''s mouth, the other brandishing an azure Sword Soul at the boy''s throat.

    The boys eyes bulged, a mix of shock and stupefaction at Yun Xiao''s sudden presence.

    "Shh, quiet now. No harm wille to you," Yun Xiao whispered, dragging the boy into a deserted courtyard, its owners likely off paying their respects, leaving the ce empty.

    Once secluded, Yun Xiao released his grip, though the Sword Soul remained a whisper from the boy''s neck.

    "Y-you!!" the boy gasped, eyes wide as saucers. "What in the world are you doing not practicing at this hour, and instead, kidnapping people?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Can''t I?" Yun Xiao''s face was a mask of indifference.

    "This... this is heresy! You''ll be roasted alive at the Three Immortals Temple!" The boy was aghast.

    Who would dare tomit such a bold act?

    "So, your devotion is born from fear, not faith?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "Nonsense! Don''t you dare nder me! My reverence for the True Immortals is as endless as the rivers..." the boy blurted out in fright.

    "Ah, so the True Immortals'' influence isn''t as pervasive as I thought," Yun Xiao mused.

    The boy was lost, clueless about Yun Xiao''s cryptic words.

    "Listen," Yun Xiao tightened his grip on the boy''s cor, "do you know Lian Xi?"

    "Only a fool wouldn''t!" the boy retorted.

    "Where is she?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "At the Primordial Academy!" the boy dered.

    "Primordial Academy? Lead the way," Yun Xiaomanded, rising.

    "Lead the way yourself!" The boy pointed towards the east, where a colorful pagoda pierced the mists. "That''s the Primordial Pagoda, and the academy is built around it. Lian Xi is surely there."

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao saw it too.

    Dragging someone along would only slow him down.

    "Alright, thanks. Go back to your kneeling," Yun Xiao dismissed.

    "I-I can''t... Could you, with your swift speed, whoosh me back as if none of this ever happened?" the boy asked, his voice tinged with hope and a hint of dread.

    "What''s your name?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Ah Can," the boy replied.

    "I''ll remember it." With a grasp and a gust akin to a tempest, Yun Xiao whisked the boy back to the spot he''d been devoutly kneeling.

    "Primordial Academy..." Ah Can, dazed, watched Yun Xiao''s departing silhouette, murmuring to himself with a hint of regret, "That''s the only ce that doesn''t require someone to practice the ascension technique.

    In his eyes was a glimmer of yearning. He nced back, slyly, at two adults in tow. His parents, lost in fervor, hadn''t noticed his brief absence, their faces aglow with a zealous obsession.

    He saw, with his own eyes, smoke billowing from their crowns, spiraling into a golden swirl, devoured by three spectral figures with a ghastly twirl Yet, he dared not disclose what he saw.

    In the distance, an elder by the temple, with a smile so gentle and a stroke of his beard, mused aloud, "The five decays of heaven and man, a cultivator''s plight, a sorrow that spans thend. Blessed be the arrival of the True Immortals, with powers grand, to guide all beings from sand to strand. This, a kindness vast and grand!"

    "Sighs and praises for the True Immortals, boundless and grand!"

    Soon after, Yun Xiao found himself in an open space. Looking up, he beheld the Primordial Pagoda, resplendent as a pearl set upon this holynd, illuminating all living beings under it.

    Closer in sight he saw a humble gate, with crooked letters that read <em>Primordial Academy</em>.

    Compared to the bustling grandeur of the Primordial Ruins, this academy''s entrance, in as could be, seemed barely a match for any street-side shop''s entrance, embodying simplicity.

    This was the Primordial Academy! It did indeed have the look of academic sanctity.

    Seeing no one around, Yun Xiao approached the academy gate.

    "Halt." A muffled voice came from the side.

    Yun Xiao turned to the source of the voice to see a small book shack bound with books all around.

    Inside the book shack sat a bald, middle-aged man with the towering stature of a devil n member, engrossed in a book norger than his handanother top-tier powerhouse.

    "I''m here to see Lian Xi," Yun Xiao dered.

    The bald man nced up, taken aback, and asked, "Another admirer drawn by her fame?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Then leave," the man coughed, returning to his book with a stern look.

    "How can I gain entry then?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "Outsiders aren''t wee, and disturbing my study of the sages'' works will only earn you a swift expulsion skyward," the bald man intoned gravely.

    Catching a glimpse of the book through the man''s fingers, Yun Xiao spotted the title, <em>Beauty''s Mirror. </em>

    ..." Yun Xiao felt speechless. What work of sages? The bald man was basically reading smut!

    He approached the man directly.

    "You?" the man''s brow furrowed.

    Before any action could be taken, Yun Xiao spoke, "I hail from the Nine Hells. The Nian is about to break free from the Immortal Asylum, threatening the masses. I came with Zhang Qingwei to the Sky Origin Ruins to report this, but that Yuan Xianjun killed her, intending to annihte the Nian by refining my world into an Ascension Pill... Now, the souls of the Nine Hells are in peril, and I seek Lian Xi''s aid!"

    With his plea concisely delivered, the bald man fell silent. Then, he stood abruptly, his book thudding to the floor, revealing an illustration of a scantily-d mermaid.

    pping himself awake, he said, "Lian Xi is challenging the eighth level of the Primordial Pagoda. Come with me!"

    Passing through the unassuming gate, Yun Xiao discovered the vastness of the Primordial Academy, dwarfing even the Heavenly Realm''s Grand Temple in its heritage. The ce was nearly half the size of the Heavenly Realm itself, bustling with talented youths.

    "Lian Xi is about to conquer the eighth level of the Primordial Pagoda!" the news rippled through the crowd, drawing many towards the towering structure.

    As Yun Xiao neared, he found the area beneath the Pagoda swarming with a sea of people...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    Before any action could be taken, Yun Xiao spoke, "I hail from the Nine Hells. The Nian is about to break free from the Immortal Asylum, threatening the masses. I came with Zhang Qingwei to the Sky Origin Ruins to report this, but that Yuan Xianjun killed her, intending to annihte the Nian by refining my world into an Ascension Pill... Now, the souls of the Nine Hells are in peril, and I seek Lian Xi''s aid!"</blockquote>

    <strong>*Looks at other stories taking the most convuluted path when a simple exnation would have worked.</strong>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 381: Primordial Son!

    Chapter 381: Primordial Son!

    The Primordial Pagoda soared into the clouds, bathed in a kaleidoscope of shimmering lights, making the ground and buildings below seem like something out of a dreamy fairnd.

    At its base, tens of thousands of young men and women had gathered, their faces a mix of reverence and awe as they huddled in groups, whispering among themselves.

    These were no ordinary youths; each one of them was like a dragon among men, their every move resonating with the profound mysteries of the universe. Their vitality and magic power were exceptional, far surpassing their peers in the mundane realms, standing tall above the masses of the myriad worlds.

    Amidst this scene of admiration, nestled under the pagoda, was a row of elegant little cottages.

    Inside one of these, a young boy in ck sat cross-legged on the floor. Despite being around 13 years old, his features were marked by a stern resilience, with a nose sharp as a sword''s edge and eyebrows like icy des, making him a sight too intense for most to meet his gaze directly.

    As he opened his eyes slightly, it became apparent that his pupils were white, turning his gaze into swirling vortices of chilling mystery.

    Behind him stood a group of finely dressed youths, their cultivation evidently superior to those outside, yet they all bowed their heads in service to the boy in ck, indicating his extraordinary status.

    While the outside world buzzed with excitement for the revered Lian Xi, a young man approached the boy in ck with utmost respect, whispering, "Primordial Son, Liu Yingying has arrived."

    "Let her in," the boy responded, his white pupils expanding slightly, emotionless as if they were portals absorbing the essence of the celestial, spinning slowly in their icy detachment.

    No sooner had his words fallen silent than a graceful young girl in a long pink dress swayed her way over. She was about 17 years old, a touch older than the boy in ck, with a slender waist that spoke of elegance, and a face so pretty it couldunch ships, crowned with eyes like pools of clear water that beckoned hearts to dive in.

    "Liu Yingying pays her respects to the Primordial Son," she said, her voice sweet as a summer peach but not cloying, hitting just the right note of charm without tipping into sharine.

    As she spoke, she lifted her gaze just enough to steal a nce at the boy in ck, her cheeks blooming a soft pink. Her hands sped gently before her, she radiated purity, a sense of being untouched by the world''s shadows.

    "Senior Sister Liu," the boy replied, his voice a stark contrast to his icy demeanor, warm as a sunbeaming through a window.

    With a soft hum, she waited for him to continue, her eyes fixed on him with an expectancy that belied her calm exterior.

    "Word has it you and Lian Xi grew up together. You two are close?" he asked, his gaze respectfully on her face, never wandering, his tone even.

    At the mention of Lian Xi, Liu Yingying''s heart skipped, but she quickly masked it with a smile as bright as the morning sun. "Indeed, Lian Xi found a second home with us, as close to me as a sister."

    Nodding, the boy was not one for roundabouts; he produced a ck invitation, saying, "Tonight, on the asion of my birthday, I am hosting a small gathering. I wish to extend an invitation to Lian Xi and hope you might assist in this matter."

    He didn''t hand her the invitation, implying he intended to deliver it to Lian Xi personally, a gesture of sincerity.

    "And of course, Senior Sister Liu, you are more than wee to join," he added with a smile that could melt the coldest of hearts.

    Liu Yingying''s spirits lifted at the invitation, her eyes sparkling with a mix of delight and curiosity. "The Primordial Son''s birthday celebration will surely draw the elite from all corners of the Primordial Ruins, won''t it?" she mused, her voice light, teasing the grandeur of the uing event.

    The boy in ck shook his head with a chuckle. "Just a small gathering. I''m inviting only close friends and family."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Liu Yingying, her brows yfully arched, cooed, "Is that so? Well, if I manage to tie this thread for you, you might owe me a favor, wouldn''t you say?" Her joke was a veiled yes to the boy''s request.

    The boy''sughter rang out, "With Senior Sister Liu''s noble birth and unmatched beauty, just gracing my humble abode would draw admirers. There''s no need for me to y matchmaker."

    ttered by his words, Liu Yingying blushed like peach blossoms in spring, floating with an ethereal grace. Yet, deep down, she knew her standing paled inparison to the illustrious circles of the Primordial Son.

    "But..." she nced outside, her voice a whisper, "Lian Xi is a tough nut to crack. I''ll sing your praises, but the final say is hers."

    The boy smiled serenely, "Do your best, Senior Sister Liu. That''s all I ask."

    Reassured, Liu Yingying nodded.

    "Also, an ancient forebear of mine might grace the banquet, sharing insights on the sword''s path," he said, his voice booming with pride.

    "The founder of the sword''s path, a celestial being among men!" Liu Yingying gasped, her eyes wide with reverence.

    It took her a moment to recover before she smiled and assured him, "She''lle for sure!"

    Pleased, the boy smiled just as a wave of admiration and excitement swept in from outside.

    "She''s about to conquer the eighth level of the Primordial Pagoda. Let''s step outside and witness the miracle," he said, striding out of the cottage with the air of an unsheathed sword.

    Outside, the air buzzed with the electric charge of excitement, as tens of thousands from the Primordial Academy, their eyes alight with fervor, craned their necks towards the direction of the Primordial Pagoda.

    Yun Xiao, along with the bald middle-aged man, made their way into the throng.

    "Make way! Don''t block the path of enlightenment," the bald man bellowed, flinging any obstructing youths aside with a casual flick of his arms.

    "Step aside, it''s Uncle River!" The disciples quickly wisened up, opening up a path.

    "So, this is the Primordial Academy, huh?" Yun Xiao mused to himself, trailing behind the bald figure, his gaze sweeping over the crowd with a mix of wonder and amusement.

    "Among these tens of thousands, the youngest might be around ten years old. Yet, the weakest among them is in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm... Quite the lofty standards!" Yun Xiao pondered. Had the Primordial Ruins not drifted over the Nine Hells, rubbing shoulders with this caliber of cultivators might have remained a pipe dream for him.

    One nce at their demeanor, their eyes, was enough to tell that their understanding of the Dao far surpassed that of the myriad worlds below. Here, everyone was a dragon among men, a cultivator through and through, and most astonishingly, each seemed to possess their own Seed of Creation, leaving Yun Xiao dazzled.

    Then, as he followed the bald man to the base of the pagoda, where the crowd was densest and the gasps of awe loudest, he noticed something.

    "Projection Art?" Peering forward, Yun Xiao saw a patch of ground beneath the pagoda where a y of light and shadow unfolded, disying figures, objects, and battles within swirling mists. Though not crystal clear, the progression of events was discernible.

    Clearly, the exploits of Lian Xi within the Primordial Pagoda were being projected for all disciples to marvel and learn from. Yun Xiao recognized the technique used to cast these images; it wasn''t overlyplex. The higher the practitioner''s skill, the clearer the projected images would be.

    "There" Through the projection, Yun Xiao finally caught a glimpse of her. Amidst the flickering, a girl in a short white dress emerged into view. Even from just her silhouette, it was clear how impably simr the two were... Chen Xi was already the fairestdy Yun Xiao had everid eyes on, her skin like unblemished white jade, unparalleled in purity.

    So this familiar silhouette struck a chord in Yun Xiao!

    "Good heavens," Yun Xiao couldn''t help but find the humor in the situation.

    Because this girl in the white dress, not only was her fairness familiar, but there was something else about her that took Yun Xiao right back to the Heavenly Realm!

    In the midst of the shadows, the girl wielded a colossal, brutal war hammer in one delicate arm, and in the other, a massive battle axe wrapped in crackling thunder! Her slender frame belied a ferocity that rivaled great beasts, her white dress fluttering amidst mes and thunder, wreaking havoc within the Primordial Pagoda.

    <em>BOOM!</em> The sounds of explosions and tumult were relentless!

    She faced many foes, swarms of golden celestial puppets shaped like behemoths, rhinos, mammoths, and more, each towering like a mountain of gold, their numbers in the tens of thousands!

    She plunged into the herd, pulverizing a golden rhino puppet into dust with her hammer, cleaving a mammoth in two with her axe, belching white mes that swept through the ranks, and with a flick of her wrist, unleashed a million lightning serpents that struck down all around her!

    This was the revered maiden? Yun Xiao thought maybe the bald middle-aged man beside him might fit the scene better.

 Chapter 382: A Dashing Youth Makes Off With the Maiden!

    Chapter 382: A Dashing Youth Makes Off With the Maiden!

    "This incarnation of transcending cmity specializes in martial cultivation, right?" Yun Xiao quizzed Blue Star.

    "Spot on," Blue Star replied, eyes wide with admiration. "With her Seed of Creation talents serving as a solid foundation, she''s carved out a niche in the Primordial Martial Art, spinning the Primordial Void Technique into something fierce. A fieryss, that one, a real catch! Time for you to go reel her in again!"

    "Beat it." Yun Xiao stuffed him back in his embrace.

    "She''s on the brink of sess." With that thought, Yun Xiao could only wait with bated breath.

    "The eighth level tests her mettle inbat, and she''s about to smash the Primordial Ruins'' historical records." The bald middle-aged man couldn''t hide his awe.

    "A record-breaker?" Yun Xiao watched her intently.

    "Yes! A new legend in the making! Only 14 years old and she''s breezing through the eighth level! The previous record-holder was 18," the man said, his excitement palpable.

    "Fourteen..." That meant she was even younger than Chen Xi, who was only 15!

    "From the ninth level of the Primordial Pagoda onward, it''s all aboutprehending the Heavenly Dao. Here''s hoping she keeps shattering records," the bald man murmured.

    The fervor in his eyesand indeed, in the eyes of tens of thousands of young disciples aroundspoke volumes of the weight this ''new record'' carried!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Soon enough, amidst a thunderous uproar, the girl in white cut down all celestial puppets of the eighth level, triumphing with flying colors.

    "Lian Xi!" Many whispered her name in reverence.

    A new record, sending shockwaves through the masses.

    To the tens of thousands of disciples from the Primordial Academy, the way they looked at the girl in white was akin to gazing upon a deity!

    A testament to her impable character.

    The crowd went wild!

    Some even rushed to spread the news of this groundbreaking achievement, heralding it as a beacon of progress.

    "She''sing down, let''s go."

    The balding middle-aged man''s words to Yun Xiao were heavy with anticipation as they made their way to the grand entrance of the Primordial Pagoda.

    Yun Xiao swiftly joined him at the doorway.

    Out there, under the vast sky, a crowd of tens of thousands was buzzing with anticipation, their eyes glued to the emergence of their revered maiden.

    "Here shees!" someone shouted as a ripple of excitement swept through the crowd.

    From within a kaleidoscope of shimmering light, a girl as pristine as freshly fallen snow stepped forth. She had stowed away her mighty hammer and axe, and from a distance, she seemed just like any other girl, albeit with an air of unmistakable grace.

    Yun Xiao was about to step forward to greet her, but a bevy of eager young folks beat him to it. Leading the charge was none other than the Primordial Son and Liu Yingying, among others.

    "Lian Xi, congrattions are in order!" Liu Yingying beamed, making her way to the girl in white.

    "Big sister," the girl''s eyes sparkled as she greeted her softly.

    Then her gaze drifted to a young man in ck standing by Liu Yingying. "Congrattions, Lian Xi. Shattering the academy''s records is no small feat," he said, bowing slightly with a smile that was all manners and grace.

    "This is the Primordial Son, Huyan Luo," Liu Yingying hurriedly introduced.

    The girl''s serene face suddenly took on a chill, her expression frosting over.

    The young man in ck extended an invitation. "Tonight marks my humble birthday celebration. It would be an honor if you could grace us with your presence."

    The girl in white didn''t reach out for the invitation.

    "Lian Xi!" Liu Yingying, aware of the thousands of eyes on them, quickly added, "Don''t worry, I''ll apany you. The Primordial Son is a good man, and it''ll be a fine asion to celebrate your remarkable achievement today..."

    Before the girl could respond, Liu Yingying whispered, "And most importantly, a supreme Immortal will be there to share his wisdom on the sword. It''s an event many dream of attending..."

    "A supreme Immortal?" The tension in the girl''s delicate features eased ever so slightly.

    "With great reverence for our ancestor," the young man in ck said, still holding out the dark invitation with a hopeful smile.

    Tales and whispers ran wild through the crowd of young onlookers, their minds racing with possibilities.

    "Will Lian Xi ept the invitation?"

    Just as the girl in white seemed about to respond, a towering figure with a shaven head burst through the crowd, his voice booming, "Lian Xi, someone''s looking for you."

    The crowd was taken aback, and the girl''s hand paused mid-air.

    "Uncle RivNo Yun Dahe." The Primordial Son frowned, casting a frosty nce at the bald middle-aged man.

    Even an elder ought to know better than to cause a stir at such a moment...

    "Back off! Our Lian Xi isn''t just anyone''s to meet!" Liu Yingying was so flustered her ears turned red.

    Who could possibly need Lian Xi now, with a banquet invitation at stake?

    Suddenly, many eyes shifted towards a young man in white standing next to the bald figure Was he the one seeking Lian Xi?

    "Who''s this? Looks too good to be true."

    Indeed, <em>too good to be true</em> was a fitting description for Yun Xiao. But in the realm of the Immortals, looks didnt count for much! Especially for men. All show and no substance meant nothing here! So, it was a general consensus that interrupting a promising match with an irrelevant intrusion was a big no-no!

    But Yun Xiao couldn''t care less about these conventions! The moment heid eyes on her, he was gobsmacked. Wasn''t that Chen Xi? From her hair to her toes, she was the spitting image.

    Yun Xiao had even counted! Their hair, exactly 108,172 strands each. Not one more, not one less! And not a hair out of ce! Truth be told, he could''ve remained unfazed no matter what Lian Xi looked like.

    But if she and that girl he''d been so entangled with shared even the length of their hair strands, he couldn''t stay calm. They were one and the same! So, though he didn''t speak, his intense gaze bore into Lian Xi with such fervor, she couldn''t possibly ignore the invasive eyes on her!

    It wasn''t the bald man''s interjection that halted her, but that piercing look.

    Initially annoyed, she thought, "How rude can someone be?"

    Then, turning her head, she looked out towards the crowd...

    Beneath the colorful glow of the Primordial Pagoda, stood a figure in white, as graceful as a willow in the breeze, his eyes faintly red as he gazed upon her with a look that was asplex as it was profound.

    "Uh..." Lian Xi felt as if struck by lightning, stepping back in shock, her eyes locked on Yun Xiao. It was like being suffocated. Time seemed to freeze. Visions from her dreams, now spilling into reality, flickered in her eyes. Her beautiful eyes trembled. As she caught her breath, her breathing grew heavy.

    "Come here," Yun Xiao suddenly spoke.

    "Who are you, anyway? Back off," Liu Yingying couldn''t help but chuckle. Did he think just because he was easy on the eyes, all thedies would fawn over him?

    In the world of immortal cultivation, such a notion wasughable.

    The Primordial Son beside her frowned, his patience wearing thin. After all, his invitation had been hanging in the air... quite awkwardly. Even the tens of thousands watching shook their heads. Come here? To address Lian Xi in such a manner, how impolite!

    "Uncle River, please get rid of this jester..." Someone murmured, shaking their head.

    But in that moment, a sh of light, and a white figure appeared before Yun Xiao. She looked up at him, her gaze innocent and fixed on his eyes.

    "Lian Xi?" Liu Yingying was stunned.

    "What''s going on here?"

    The disciples of the Primordial Academy were bewildered.

    How could these two be locked in such an intense gaze...

    "Who is this?" The Primordial Son''s hand, holding the invitation, clenched tightly, veins bulging.

    "I don''t know him. Lian Xi has no rtives!" Liu Yingying could see the Primordial Son''s anger brewing and, fearful yet annoyed, cast a ming nce at Lian Xi. Why would she ignore the invitation and chat with someone else?

    The Primordial Son, with his lofty status, had extended a personal invitation. Leaving him hanging like that was an affront.

    "Lian Xi, forget about this nobody..." Liu Yingying hurried over. But with a flick of her wrist, Lian Xi sent her tumbling back with a gust of wind.

    "Has she lost her mind?" Liu Yingying was dumbstruck.

    She even saw Lian Xi suddenly grab Yun Xiao''s cor, asking tentatively, "B-big Brother Yun Xiao?" Her cheeks flushed as she uttered the word, a term from their dream-bound pact.

    "Little Xi..." Yun Xiao, unsure of her awareness, seized the moment. "I need your help with something urgent. Can we talk in private?"

    "Okay," Lian Xi nodded, the picture of obedience.

    As they walked away, leaving behind a sea of stunned onlookers, whispers spread like wildfire.

    "He just... held Lian Xi''s hand..."

    Jealousy and confusion rippled through the crowd.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Wasn''t Lian Xi known for not letting anyone touch her? Why didn''t shesh out?"

    The mass confusion was palpable.

    "Primordial Son!" Liu Yingying''s face was a storm cloud. "Don''t be mad. I''ll find her and see what''s going on..."

    "No need." With those words, the Primordial Son turned and left.

    "This is bad..." Liu Yingying''s mind raced with thoughts of Yun Xiao, her anger ring anew.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 383: White Haired Woman!

    Chapter 383: White Haired Woman!

    In the crowd, the bald middle-aged man stood dumbfounded, watching Yun Xiao and Lian Xi holding hands as they walked away.

    "Lian Xi let him hold her hand?" the bald man murmured with a deep gaze. "Does that mean she isn''t a <em>child of disaster</em>?"

    He nced around and noticed the youngsters were more fixated on the hand-holding than the bearer of cmity matter.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Soon enough, someone''s going to catch onto this. And just like that, the rumors of Lian Xi being a bearer of cmity will fall apart," he mused with a slight sense of wonder. "This kid, without even realizing it, lent Lian Xi a hand and solved her pressing problem."

    This was the oue of a public disy of hand-holding.

    "Well, now all we can hope is that Lian Xi can handle that Nian."

    Thinking this, the bald man looked back in the direction where the Primordial Son had left, chuckling to himself, "That kid just met with his first big setback in life, how amusing!"

    He had a hunch that the Primordial Academy was about to get lively.

    With urgency in the air, Yun Xiao didn''t go far. He led Lian Xi by her jade hand into a secluded corner.

    Back against the wall, Lian Xi''s cheeks were flushed, her eyshes quivered, and her eyes sparkled enchantingly.

    Looking up at Yun Xiao, her eyes gleamed with joy, "You said in my dream you''de for me. I thought you were lying, but here you are! It''s all so mystical, meeting someone from a dream first..."

    From this brief interaction, Yun Xiao could tell from her actions, expressions, and the way she spoke that, although she resembled Chen Xi, their temperaments were different.

    Her friendliness wasn''t because of Chen Xi''s past life, but because of the dreams they shared. She couldn''t possibly have Chen Xi''s memories yet! This realization threw Yun Xiao into a bit of confusion.

    "What''s wrong? Aren''t you happy to see me? Don''t tell me you''re not?" Lian Xi blinked and pouted.

    "I am happy," Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "There you go!" She reached out her hand, grabbing Yun Xiao''s arms excitedly, "Let''s go to the Divine Dawn Pavilion, shall we? That''s where I live... I have so much to tell you."

    "Divine Dawn Pavilion..." Yun Xiao''s heart trembled at the mention of a familiar name, recalling the first encounter with Chen Xi at the Divine Dawn Pavilion in the Sea of Swords.

    "No!" His gaze hardened as he stared at Lian Xi, "I''vee to you on urgent business!"

    "Oh please speak!" Lian Xi''s smile faded as she became serious.

    Yun Xiao briefly exined the imminent danger of the Nian breaking free and wreaking havoc. Such catastrophic news would instinctively provoke a strong reaction in her, and upon hearing it, a cold mist of determination rose on her delicate face.

    Lian Xi was brimming with a force that could level mountains and seas, but it wasn''t aimed at Yun Xiao.

    "Why''d youe back to me after heading to the Sky Source Ruins with Sister Weiwei?" she asked, puzzled.

    "I''ve got bad news, brace yourself," Yun Xiao whispered, noting the close bond she shared with Zhang Qingwei.

    "What is it?" Lian Xi''s grip tightened, her fingers trembling with apprehension.

    "Zhang Qingwei is gone," Yun Xiao delivered the blow, then recounted the events, including the cmity that befell their world.

    "Sister Weiwei..." At that moment, Lian Xi''s eyes reddened with grief, and her small frame shook like a tempest, making Yun Xiao feel as if he was in the presence of a fearsome beast.

    "Take heart," he said, seeing the tears well up in her eyes, his own heart heavy with sympathy.

    "I''ll avenge her!" Lian Xi vowed, her voice heavy with hatred.

    "Then we must act swiftly, muster all the forces at yourmand to stop Yuan Xianjun from burning the Nine Hells," Yun Xiao urged with gravity.

    "My master alone is enough!" Lian Xi dered, her demeanor turning cold and resolute, reminiscent of the Divine Dawn Empress of yore. She nced at Yun Xiao, then suddenly, with surprising gentleness, wrapped an arm around his waist.

    "Hold tight," she advised.

    "What?" Before Yun Xiao could react, he was swept off his feet, cradled in Lian Xi''s arms as they sped through the air. The wind howled, blurring the passing scenery into streaks of light.

    "Damn, that''s fast," Yun Xiao marveled, never imagining he''d be whisked away by a delicate girl in such a breathtaking flight.

    All along their path, onlookers were left in disarray, their hair tousled by the gusts stirred in their wake.

    Yun Xiao caught some grumbles about living off a woman as they zipped through the air. Barely processing the verbal jabs, he was gently set down by Lian Xi''s swift hands.

    "We''re here, follow me," Lian Xi, ever the impulsive one, barely touched the ground before whisking Yun Xiao into an elegant yet simple mansion, bursting with lush greenery and a mystical aura. The ce, adorned with symbols on its pirs and tiles, clearly held a lofty status within the Primordial Academy.

    "Master, Lian Xi requests an audience," she announced, bringing Yun Xiao into a courtyard.

    "Come in," a voice floated from within, ethereal andmanding, as if descending from the clouds, both mesmerizing and awe-inspiring.

    With a creak of the door, they entered. The courtyard was shrouded in mist, at its heart a pool with a milky,va-like liquid, bubbling and steaming, adding an air of mystery and allure.

    In that pooly a woman, a sight to be respectfully averted!

    Yun Xiao quickly turned away, but not before being struck by her stunning presence. Despite her age, her vitality seemed to surpass that of the younger ones, her form both graceful and radiant. Unlike the typical beauty that might seem delicate, this woman exuded an aura of nobility and purity, reminiscent of the moon in its solitary splendor, distant and untouchable by mere mortals.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t shake off the image of the woman with waist-length white hair that seemed more radiant than any blooming white flower in the pond, not a sign of aging but a cascade of shimmering waterfalls.

    Before he could gather his wits, the towering figure of the woman, no longer just a vision in the pool, stood before him, draped in a moon-white robe that spoke of dignity rather than intimacy.

    "Who''s this?" the woman inquired with a flick of her long hair, her red lips parting in question to Lian Xi.

    "He''s a cultivator from the Nine Hells," Lian Xi blurted out, her eyes tinged with urgency. "Master, Sister Weiwei has been wronged, and the Nine Hells beckon for your aid!"

    "Let''s talk on the way," the white-haireddy decided, conjuring a lotus tform from the pool, its petals etched with patterns and resonating with the might of a mountain, clearly a treasure of high esteem.

    In a blink, she was seated on the lotus, her presencemanding yet serene.

    "Big Brother," Lian Xi beckoned Yun Xiao to the lotus, finding a corner for them amidst the unfolding urgency.

    "Directly to the Nine Hells?" Yun Xiao cast a nce at the woman, her decisive action leaving asting impression.

    Who was she, this figure of authority that whisked them away on a lotus tform, soaring through the heavens with such speed that the world below blurred into streaks of light, all while ensconced in an invisible barrier that kept them untouched by the roaring winds?

    Despite the dire circumstances, Yun Xiao and Lian Xi remained hand in hand, their young hearts perhaps reluctant to part in the face of looming challenges...

 Chapter 384: Execute You!

    Chapter 384: Execute You!

    A white haired woman sped through the skies on a lotus tform, fast enough to leave the Primordial Ruins in the dust. Yun Xiao reckoned they were way out of there by now.

    "Huh?" Thedy took a quick gander at Yun Xiao and Lian Xi, noticing their hands sped tight. Lian Xi, seeming eager to say more, gripped even tighter.

    "So, what were you going to tell me?" the woman said, shifting her gaze from their hands to Lian Xi''s eyes.

    So, Lian Xiid it all out, the tale of the Nian and Zhang Qingwei''s death, clear as day.

    "Alright," the woman responded, her eyes turning frostier with each word until she finally nodded.

    "Master, the affairs of the Sky Source Ruins are overseen by the Sky Source Immortal. It''s not our jurisdiction," Lian Xi whispered.

    "True."

    "So?"

    "No worries," the white haired woman reassured with a slight smile. "Go fall in love or something."

    "Okie dokie," Lian Xi nodded obediently.

    Yun Xiao stayed mum throughout the exchange.

    "My master is the Dean of the Primordial Academy. You can call her Dean Yu," Lian Xi whispered to Yun Xiao.

    "Got it," he nodded, impressed by the solid backing Lian Xi had. Yun Xiao felt a weight lift off his shoulders, the tension for the Nine Hells easing a bit.

    "The Dean of the Primordial Academy doesn''t that mean she''s one of the mightiest figures in the Primordial Ruins? To the Nine Hells, that''s practically a deity descending."

    Lotus tforms, white hair, eyes bright as celestial bodies, radiance glowing off her skin... quite the sight! But respect for elders was a given for Yun Xiao; it didn''t ruffle him one bit.

    He nced over at Lian Xi, her nose slightly reddened with anger for Zhang Qingwei, stirring a sense ofpassion...

    "Big Brother," she called out again.

    "Meet me at the Divine Dawn Pavilion tonight," Yun Xiao whispered back.

    "Mhm..." Lian Xi nodded, all agreeable.

    In the heart of the Nine Hells, within the Immortal Asylum, where the deepest crevices hid, the Nian without a single hair, trapped and bleeding, fought fiercely against Moon Fairy. Its roars and screams echoed, a struggle for life and death.

    "Someone''sing!" Moon Fairy''s voice cut through the chaos.

    The blood-soaked Nian lifted its head, spotting at the tunnel''s end seven figures in golden robes, mostly elders. Leading them was none other than Yuan Xianjun, arms crossed, an eyebrow raised at the struggling creature.

    "A mythical Nian from ancient legends, reduced to such a state after endless torments in the Immortal Asylum. A pity," a voice rang out.

    The Nian red back, venom in its gaze. "Insects and worms, you pose no threat to me."

    It feared none but Moon Fairy. To the Nian, these seven were merely nourishment waiting to be imed, once it freed itself.

    Laughter broke out among the golden-robed figures.

    "We, the Sky Source Seven, have prepared a special gift for you. Ready to receive it?" With those ominous words, they retreated, vanishing into the sky above the Immortal Asylum.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yuan Xianjun nced over the ravagednds surrounding the asylum, then across the expanse of Nine Hells. "A serene and clear ce, indeed a fine spot."

    Hispanions shared his sentiment, their eyes alight with anticipation.

    "Let''s begin before the night brings more dreams," one suggested, eager to avoid dys.

    They had dispatched Zhang Qingwei as effortlessly as crushing an ant and had no intention of wasting time.

    "Let''s," Yuan Xianjun agreed, taking a deep breath.

    They knew it well, everyst one of them, that setting the Nine Hells aze was nothing short of a catastrophe, a sin of the highest order. Yet, the dream of ascending to true immortality had them in its grip, eyes red with obsession, breaths heavy with desire, unswayed in their dark resolve.

    "After this deed is done, we''ll pin this disaster on the Nian," Yuan Xianjun rasped, his voice heavy with conviction. Nods all around; they were in agreement.

    "Brothers, three hundred years of grueling cultivation, and now, the path to eternal life lies before us. Let''s take the gamble!"

    With that, Yuan Xianjun produced seven tokens, mes etched upon them. He kept one and distributed the rest, their resolve mirrored in the fiery gleam of their eyes.

    "nt these six tokens at the world''s corners, let the ritual fire consume the Nine Hells. I''ll channel the rage of all beings into the Immortal Asylum, to refine the Nian." His voice trembled with zeal as he brandished the token, a mad light in his eyes.

    When the world burned, where could life flee? Under the ritual fire, even oceans would dry up, leaving no ce for fish or shrimp. Such was the dominion of the Primordial Ruins over lesser worlds.

    "For immortality!"

    Their tokens shed in the air, bursting into a maelstrom of crimson mes, their eyes aze with the same wild fire.

    In this moment of madness, a white lotus tform descended from above, its arrival like mountains crashing down.

    And there, before the seven, appeared a white haired woman, Dean Yu herself.

    "Yuan Xianjun!" The color drained from their faces, their eyes turning icy with menace.

    A silent standoff ensued, their murderous intent clear as day. This was an unwee blow to their grand scheme.

    Yuan Xianjun''s gaze snapped to Yun Xiao, his heart tearing apart at the seams. "Did this kid escape and then rat us out?" The thought was unbearable. He''d never imagined someone from a minor world could slip through the, or he wouldn''t have bothered with all this dual cultivation of sword and sigil.

    "Seven Lords of the Sky Source Ruins?" Dean Yu rose smoothly, her eyes cold as a winter''s tale, her white hair dancing in an unseen breeze, her figure tall andmanding.

    "What instructions do you have, Dean Yu?" Yuan Xianjun asked, trying to keep hisposure.

    The white haired woman produced a mirror, saying, "Got it all here."

    The mirror yed back the scene of the seven distributing the fire tokens, every word crystal clear. This was the Shadow Mirror, a neat trick of minor illusion magic, simple yet decisive at moments like this. Now, it served as undeniable evidence.

    Yuan Xianjun''s frown deepened, while the others distorted with rage, their path to immortality blocked.

    Yuan Xianjun exhaled and suddenly rxed into a smile. "Even so, this is a matter for the Sky Source Ruins, not for your Primordial Academy."

    "Irrelevant?" Dean Yu raised an eyebrow, lightly stepping off the lotus tform, floating down like a blooming lotus, her robe fluttering around her.

    "And what will you do? Best not meddle!" snapped one of the younger elders from the Sky Source Ruins, ice in his voice.

    "Execute you." The moment her words fell, her finger jabbed the air.

    <em>BOOM!</em> A white light, wrapped in blossoms, shed and pierced through the chest of the speaker!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!</em> The aftermath of the white light surged across endlessnds, hitting the shores of the Undead Depths in the Nine Hells, causing waves to overturn the heavens.

    "Yu Nichang!" The sight of one falling dead on the spot sent shockwaves through Yuan Xianjun and the rest, their faces turning pale with fear.

    Clearly, they were both mad and scared, not expecting Dean Yu to strike, let alone with such force.

    "Block her; I''ll find an opening!" Yuan Xianjun, previously confident, now seemed desperate, pressing towards Yun Xiao and Lian Xi.

    The remaining fiveunched abined assault with their magic treasures against the white haired woman.

    "Huh?" The lotus tform under Yun Xiao suddenly jerked into motion, tossing him and Lian Xi into a tumble, blurring their view of the chaos around them.

    Explosions roared louder than the Nian''s rampage, the ground rolling like stormy seas, with firestorms and lightning converging in a wild bombardment, as if the Nine Hells themselves were capsizing.

    "Big Brother!" Lian Xi braced herself, pulling Yun Xiao close to shield him within the rtive calm of the lotus.

    Despite the outer tumult, the lotus remained a sanctuary of softness amidst the storm.

    Yun Xiao was thrown all around, the booming din churning his insides. He realized Dean Yu was steering the lotus in battle against Yuan Xianjun, the ride anything but gentle.

    Lian Xi, though just a young girl, bore the brunt of the storm to protect Yun Xiao.

    "Dean Yu, meddle further and the Three True Immortals will rain their wrath upon you!"

    "Have you considered the consequences?"

    "Wench, your whole n will pay with their lives!"

    From the escting shouts and threats, Yun Xiao pieced together the tide of battle, Yuan Xianjun''s voice growing increasingly vicious.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!</em> Yuan Xianjun, hovering above the lotus tform, went berserk with a giant ruler magic weapon, hammering down on it. But the lotus flipped mightily, smacking him like a mountain crashing onto his head!

    Yun Xiao, inside the lotus, felt the world turn upside down as they crashed!

    <em>KLANG!</em> The sound of the lotus colliding with the Immortal Asylum sent shivers down the spine of the world, with Yuan Xianjun caught smack in the middle.

    Then, a scream from Yuan Xianjun, cut it all abruptly short!

    With onest explosion, silence fell as the battle ceased.

    The lotus, now resting atop the Immortal Asylum, seemed to still.

    "Ugh!" Before Yun Xiao could react, his stomach revolted. "Good heavens," he muttered as his clothes were soaked through.

    "What''s wrong?" Lian Xi asked, rmed.

    "Nothing, nothing..." Yun Xiao, not wanting to reveal his difort in front of Dean Yu, shook his head.

    "Eh..." Lian Xi nced down, her face turning beet red, "Brother, did you...?"

    Yun Xiao mped a hand over her mouth, his eyes wide, "Don''t be ridiculous!"

    An awkward silence ensued.

    Fortunately, the white lotus descended, breaking the tension, with Dean Yu making her entrance.

    "Master, what happened to Yuan Xianjun?" Lian Xi scanned the area.

    "Here," Dean Yu pointed beneath the lotus.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The lotus rose.

    Yun Xiao peered down to see nothing but a pancake where Yuan Xianjun once stood.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 385: Divine Punishment!

    Chapter 385: Divine Punishment!

    Yun Xiao couldn''t believe the Sky Source Seven, with their power and authority, were no match at all. The woman with white hair really didn''t mess around! Before he even realized it, she had them allid out, with Lord Yaun ttened like a pancake and the rest not looking much bettermangled up and barely recognizable.

    "I''ll have to remind myself not to piss off Lian Xi''s master" Yun Xiao thought to himself. She wasn''t just tough; she was practical to the bone. After the battle, she scooped up the seven''s Bags of Holding without leaving a scrap for him.

    "Zhang Qingwei is one of my people, and you dared to kill her?" Dean Yu pulled out a white jade gourd, and with a flick of her wrist, summoned the lingering spirits of the Sky Source Seven. "You''ll get no mercy."

    "Yu Nichang, you dare to imprison us within the Spirit Gourd? You''ll" Yuan Xianjun''s lingering spirit shouted furiously, but the terror and despair in his voice was unmistakable.

    "Wanton murder, burning a whole world You lot will have plenty of time to reflect on your actions" Dean Yu said coldly. With a flick, she stuffed the lingering spirits of Yuan Xianjun and the other six into the Spirit Gourd and sealed it tight with a familiar ease. The sound of their mournful cries leaked out, a testament to their agony.

    This is retribution for Sister Weiwei" Lian Xi muttered with tears in her eyes, holding tightly onto Yun Xiao''s hand.

    "Don''t worry," Dean Yu assured. "Those seven won''t be bothering anyone anymore. Unable to rest even after death, they''re getting what they deserve. May Qingwei''s spirit rest in peace"

    Yun Xiao felt a weight lift off his shoulders. With the Sky Source Seven dealt with, the immediate threat to the Nine Hells was neutralized.

    "Seeing how zealous and ruthless that Yuan Xianjun and the other six were, the depravity of the Primordial Ruins must sink to a whole other level of twisted" Yun Xiao mused to himself. Luckily, there were still folks like Dean Yu to keep things in check.

    Yun Xiao, seeing an opportunity, softly asked, "Can we take the Nian down while it''s weak? That way, the cmity looming over themon folk will be resolved."

    "Yes." Dean Yu nodded, her gaze piercing through to the Immortal Asylum below, where the Nian sensed the battle above and went berserk, tearing itself apart in an even greater frenzy!

    The Nian was squirming its way out of the crack, but it was struggling to break free with Moon Fairy barely holding onto its hind legs.

    "Even a starving camel is still bigger than a horse. That Nian, even if it''s been weakened by ages of imprisonment, is going to be a lot tougher to deal with than those seven" Yun Xiao remarked silently to himself.

    Dean Yu was theirst hope for a clean sweep, to put an end to this mess once and for all.

    "You two, step aside." She gestured for Yun Xiao and Lian Xi to get off, ready to unleash the power of her lotus tform.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded, ready to step off to the sidelines, but the heavens appeared to have other ns.

    Out of nowhere, the sky roared, shaking the Nine Hells to its core. Up above, through the clouds, three gigantic steles plummeted downgold, silver, and ck, each stamped with a circr <em>return</em> symbol.

    Like three mountains, they smashed through the clouds, their descent sparking a dazzling light show.

    Dean Yu frowned, quickly retreating to her lotus tform, not letting Yun Xiao and Lian Xi out of her sight. She whisked them away just in time, as the steles mmed into the ground around the Immortal Asylum, forming a triangle that sealed off the area.

    The moment they hit the ground, symbols fluttered to life on their surfaces, morphing into butterflies of gold, silver, and ck, swirling up into a dome-shaped barrier that cloaked the Immortal Asylumpletely.

    Inside, the butterflies, shimmering with the colors of the steles, zeroed in on the Nian and its clones, sticking to them like glue. Then, they ignited into a fierce ze, engulfing the Nian in mes that danced across its hide, a fiery spectacle to behold.

    The Nian, just on the brink of freedom, let out a roar of agony as it was swallowed whole by an endless swarm of butterfly symbols. The ground of the Immortal Asylum shook violently again, the Nian''s roars of fury echoing through heaven and earth, leaving the souls of the Nine Hells in a state of unease.

    "Who intervened?" Yun Xiao peered into the skies, spotting three towering figures amidst the clouds, standing as if they were three sacred mountains casting their shadow over the Nine Hells, making even him feel a bit short of breath.

    And behind these three, a crowd of silhouettes loomed, clearly a gathering of mighty beings.

    It appeared many top figures from the Primordial Ruins had descended!

    "They''re here!" Yun Xiao muttered, his eyes narrowing. Those three formidable figures at the forefront were undoubtedly the True Immortals responsible for propagating the All-Life Devouring Gu.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Nichang pays her respects to the Three True Immortals," Dean Yu, calm as ever, greeted. It appeared she was ready to hold up the sky should it fall.

    The gaze of the three settled on Dean Yu, and even though Yun Xiao wasn''t their target, he could feel the immense pressure they exuded, as if the weight of the whole world rested on his shoulders.

    "Dean Yu, with the Nian sowing chaos, why did you y the Sky Source Seven first?" the figure in ck on the right asked.

    "Please, take a look." Unruffled, Dean Yu presented a mirror that reyed the seven''s misdeeds, leaving no room for doubt about their viiny.

    After showing the evidence, she put the mirror away and addressed the three True Immortals, "Though they acted under the authority of the Sky Source Ruins, the Sky Source Immortal is a saintly master, a benefactor to the world. Would he truly seek to destroy it for personal gain? Clearly, those seven were deranged. I couldn''t stand by and watch them tarnish the reputation of the Three True Immortals and harm the living, so I took decisive action."

    After her exnation, she looked calmly towards the heavens, which fell silent for a moment. Then, an ancient voice from the middle Immortal dered, "The actions of those from the Sky Source Ruins were their own, almost leading to catastrophe. This is my responsibility. I will severely punish the higher-ups of the ruins to serve as a warning and a lesson to all."

    "Your wisdom shines, True Immortal," the figures in the rear echoed.

    "Well, how about that?" Yun Xiao was taken aback. He leaned over to Blue Star with a hushed tone, "Aren''t these three supposed to be old devils? Why the act of mercy all of a sudden?"

    Blue Star chuckled. "Them? Cruel and domineering? That''d be the day."

    "Why do you say that?" Yun Xiao inquired, keeping his voice low.

    "To win the masses, you y the saint. Who''d worship a tyrant? Take away the All-Life Devouring Gu, and you''ll find they''re paragons of virtue, at least in the public eye. That''s how they earn folks'' devotion," Blue Star exined with a click of the tongue.

    "Got it," Yun Xiao squinted, "So, they have a weakness."

    "What weakness?" Red Moon chimed in curiously.

    "Goodness," Yun Xiao paused, "They have to keep up their moral facade. If that crumbles, so does their spiritual power."

    Blue Star shook his head with a smile, "You''re being naive."

    "How so?"

    "That weakness you mentioned was only relevant when they were starting out. Now, they''re close to their peak. Frankly, they could do anything, and people would bend over backwards to justify their actions... Once the rot sets in deep, even devils can be saints," Blue Star rattled off with ease.

    "I see," Yun Xiao nodded, taking in Blue Star''s words but keeping his own counsel.

    "Why worry about all this? These folks are leagues beyond you. In the Primordial Ruins, you''re just another face in the crowd," Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    As for Lian Xi, she was not <em>just another face</em>.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes sparked with determination, "The next rung of thedder is right in front of us. Just need the right resources, and it''s a matter of days."

    "Don''t get too optimistic. The Primordial Ruins are crawling with tough critters," Blue Star warned. His caution was a clear sign that the stakes in the divine vessel were a significant step up from the Nine Hells.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao wasn''t one to get cocky, nor easily frightened. He''d keep a steady heart and take things one step at a time.

    "The real deal is the Nian and the Immortal Asylum... The former is a threat, thetter a treasure!"

    With the Three True Immortals of the Primordial Ruins making their move, what woulde next?

    Yun Xiao could only watch from the sidelines.

    Sensing his thoughts, Dean Yu took the initiative, "True Immortals, with the beast causing havoc and the people in peril, what''s the n?"

    Before she could finish, the towering figure in ck nced her way, his voice cool, "We have our ways. You focus on passing down the celestial teachings at your academy."

    With a nod, Dean Yu epted the decree. She had dealt with the Sky Source Seven, but now that the real bosses had shown up, she knew better than to overstep.

    This left Yun Xiao with a headache. Yuan Xianjun was willing to burn a whole world to refine an Ascension Pill. Now, with these Three True Immortals at the helm, who could tell what they were nning to do? What if they also wanted to burn up the whole Nine Hells?

    "The fact they sealed the Immortal Asylum with those steles without directly killing the Nian means they''re up to something," Yun Xiao mused. "What are they after? The Immortal Asylum itself?"

    A chill ran through Yun Xiao.

    Then, out of the blue, the central figure in golden robes, the Sky Source Immortal, announced, "The Nian is immortal, beyond the reach ofmon methods. We intend to gather the blood of Immortals to scorch its flesh and bones, to burn its lineage until nothing remains, ensuring its total annihtion and preventing future threats."

    Who was he addressing? Perhaps Dean Yu, or maybe the dozens of figures behind them.

    "Such wisdom, True Immortal!" came the unanimous praise.

    "You may leave," the Sky Source Immortal said with a benevolent gaze.

    The figures dispersed, and Dean Yu, with no other choice, took Yun Xiao and Lian Xi back to the Primordial Ruins on her lotus tform, leaving the imposing figures of the Three True Immortals looming over the Immortal Asylum.

    "Things just got moreplicated," Yun Xiao muttered. They''d rid themselves of one problem only to face three more formidable ones. What they nned was beyond his control.

    Unlike the Sky Source Seven, these Three True Immortals had reputations to maintain; they likely wouldn''t resort to world-burning tactics against the inhabitants of the Nine Hells...

    The events unfolding in the Nine Hells would soon be the talk of the Primordial Ruins, bringing widespread attention to the Nian. With such eyes on them, would the Three True Immortals act more cautiously?

    Yun Xiao couldn''t be sure. But one thing was clearsticking around would achieve nothing.

    With Moon Fairy entangled with the Nian and the War Princess lurking nearby, keeping an eye on the Three True Immortals, Yun Xiao concluded, "I need to head back to the Primordial Ruins and level up, fast!"

 Chapter 386: For the Favor of a Fair Lady, Id Welcome Death With Open Arms

    Chapter 386: For the Favor of a Fair Lady, I''d Wee Death With Open Arms

    Time, time, time! It was all too crucial yet alwayscking!

    "Those three old fools, to hell with them!" Yun Xiao couldn''t find a moment''s peace knowing those three were stirring trouble in his backyard.

    In the Primordial Ruins, within the East Annex of the Great Yuan Residencey the ancestral estate of the ancient Yuan Family. Spanning over 100,000 acres, it was a ce of countless Immortal courts and pces, shining in gold, thriving in splendor.

    The direct lineage of the Yuan Family numbered over 10,000, serving as pirs in the Primordial Ruins, holding <em>heavenly duties</em> across various institutions. Nearly half of them served in the Sky Source Ruins, their family''s brilliance shining bright as true descendants of the Immortal realm.

    And so, the Yuan Family always walked under envious gazes in the Primordial Ruins, their descendants followed by crowds whenever they hit the streets.

    Yuan Wu, Yuan Fu, and Yuan Jian, the three brothers, were among the elite of their family. Yet, today, with Yuan Jian missing, Yuan Wu and his younger brother were not faring well either.

    After Yun Xiao''s Prison Warden Life Sigil bit into Yuan Fu''s Life Sigil, leaving it shattered and crippled, their father, Yuan Zhantian, had to use numerous heavenly treasures just to keep the Life Sigil intact, safeguarding Yuan Fu''s future.

    However, Yuan Fu and Yuan Wu still wore grim expressions on their faces, the rage and wounds in their hearts inconsble. Yun Xiao''s escape could ruin everything, and for this, they had just been fiercely reprimanded by their father.

    The atmosphere in the entire Yuan Family was tense, the n''s strong gathered in the Great Yuan Hall in silence.

    Kneeling at the side, Yuan Wu and Yuan Fu bowed their heads, fists clenched, volcanic fury brewing within.

    "It should be fine!" Yuan Zhantian, took a deep breath, trying to reassure his fellow n members. "He''s just an ordinary person from a small world, unfamiliar with our ways. His words will hold no weight; he can''t disrupt the grand ns of our ancestors."

    Despite his attempt at ease, the elders remained silent, each aware of the gravity of the situation.

    "Don''t fret," Yuan Zhantian continued, feigning a light tone, "Our family has served the Immortal beings for centuries, loyally unto death. Whatever happens, we will be protected... The ancestors'' sacrifice in burning a world to forge an Ascension Pill was for the True Immortals, right?"

    Yet, the vast Great Yuan Hall remained silent.

    "I won''t ept this!" Yuan Wu, with his golden eyes, suddenly stood up, unable to contain himself any longer.

    "You won''t ept what?" a middle-aged man with a ck beard asked, sitting squarely in the center, eyeing him.

    "I was the one who discovered the Nian and snagged the opportunity for us. For all we know, our great ancestor might''ve already concocted the Ascension Pill by now. It was my contribution! Why should I be kneeling here?" Yuan Wu ground out between clenched teeth.

    "Hold your horses," the bearded man nced at him, "If the ancestor seeds, you''ll get your due reward. But..."

    "But what?" Yuan Wu pressed.

    "If the ancestor''s efforts tank because you two lost track of someone, expect a fitting punishment," the man with the beardid it out.

    "Fine! We''ll see about that!" Yuan Wu shot back, his voice cold.

    Clearly, he wasn''t buying the idea that Yun Xiao could mess things up.

    "Truth be told, even the seven ancestors didn''t see that kid making a break for it. No need toe down hard on these brothers," someone else chimed in to bat for them.

    "But say things go south, we won''t get dragged into this, right? After all, the great ancestor is doing all this for the Three True Immortals, isn''t he?"

    "We should be in the clear. We''re the direct line of the Sky Source Immortal, after all..."

    Their discussion was cut short by a chilling promation from outside.

    "An Immortal decree has arrived for the Yuan Family!" An elder, exuding an air of sage-like wisdom, entered the Great Yuan Hall nked by a host of Primordial Guards.

    "Ah, Brother Qin." Yuan Zhantian recognized an old drinking buddy and hurried forward to greet him.

    "Kneel and receive the decree!" The elder''s cold gaze swept over them.

    "Is... is that Celestial Official Qin!"

    Yuan Zhantian hesitated for a moment but ultimately knelt obediently. A chill ran through the hall as the high-ranking members of the family, their faces tinged with fear, all knelt down.

    "It''s alright."

    Their hearts hammered in their chests, but they reassured those next to them.

    Then, Celestial Official Qin unfurled a scroll! <em>WHOOSH! </em>Golden mist swirled from the scroll, and a golden figure soared up, bathing the entire hall in dazzling light.

    "We greet the Sky Source Immortal!"

    The entire Yuan Family was stunned, prostrating themselves. Was the Sky Source Immortal delivering the decree personally? In a corner, Yuan Wu and Yuan Fu were taken aback, their legs turning to jelly.

    In that deathly quiet moment, a solemn voice from the golden figure echoed through the hall, dering, "Today, Yuan Xianjun and six others from the Yuan Family trespassed into a mortal world, intending to burn it to refine the Nian, damning countless lives. The evidence is irrefutable, their crimes unforgivable. They have been executed on the spot."

    The words struck like thunder, leaving many in the Yuan Family limp on the floor, stars dancing before their eyes.

    For brothers Yuan Wu and Yuan Fu, it felt as if their souls were shattered by a sledgehammer!

    "No, no, no..." Many couldn''t ept this reality, their protests cut short as the golden figure spoke again, his divine presence quelling all dissent.

    "These seven''s misdeeds will shake the Primordial Ruins and earn the scorn of all. To serve as a warning, I decree severe punishment for the entire Yuan Family!"

    "Effective immediately, all titles and celestial duties of the Yuan Family are revoked. The main line is demoted tomoners, the branches to celestial ves. All wealth and resources are to be confiscated. The entire family is to vacate the Great Yuan Residence and kneel in the streets for three days of repentance!"

    If the first announcement was a thunderp, this was an obliteration.

    The minds of thousands in the Yuan Family were blown.

    "No! This can''t be happening!"

    "We''ve served the Sky Source Immortal for generations, our merits are countless..."

    "I''ve lost my celestial duties, to be demoted to amoner? No! No!"

    Wails and sobs filled the hall.

    For a noble and glorious Immortal family, this punishment was akin to being cast into the deepest hells, subjected to the scorn and ridicule of all. A fate worse than death.

    "Brother, did I hear that right...?" Yuan Fu, in panic, clutched at the hand of his golden-eyed brother.

    "Get away! Get away!" Yuan Wu, eyes red with fury, copsed, hysterical.

    The whole family was in tears.

    "Celestial Official Qin!" Yuan Zhantian, in desperation, crawled and stumbled to his friend, clutching at his robes, "It wasn''t like this, our ancestors did it for the True Immortals, please..."

    With a kick, Celestial Official Qin sent Yuan Zhantian flying, his plea brutally rejected.

    "Brother, you!" Yuan Zhantian''s face was smeared with blood, utterly dazed by the turn of events.

    Celestial Official Qin, brushing off the sleeve Yuan Zhantian had grabbed, didn''t utter a single word and just turned to leave.

    "It''s over..." The wails of despair from thousands echoed, as they copsed in defeat.

    With a thunderous sound, the lotus tform descended near the entrance of the Primordial Academy, then vanished.

    Dean Yu, Yun Xiao, and Lian Xi alighted onto the deserted ground, each lost in their own thoughts. Yun Xiao, particrly preupied with the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, was notably quiet.

    Dean Yu nced back at them and suddenly said, "Lian Xi, give us a moment, will you?"

    "Uh?" Taken aback, Lian Xi shed Yun Xiao a look that said <em>speak wisely</em>, then nodded, "Sure, you two chat."

    She then stepped aside, her back to them, ears perked up to eavesdrop.

    Dean Yu and Yun Xiao stood a mere foot apart, locking eyes. Her gaze was sharp, like a sword unsheathed, challenging Yun Xiao, who, contrary to expectations, neither retreated nor bristled.

    His calm demeanor, meeting her gaze as if peering into a whirlpool, neither confrontational nor submissive, took her by surprise.

    She slightly parted her lips, remarking, "No wonder you''ve caught Lian Xi''s fancy. Besides your striking appearance, there''s something peculiar about you."

    "Is the Dean suggesting I face reality and keep my distance from Lian Xi?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Dean Yu chuckled lightly, "That would be too cliched and dull."

    "Indeed," Yun Xiao smiled.

    "I trust Lian Xi''s judgment. Anyone who wins her heart, even from a mundane world, must possess some intrigue. However..." She paused, hinting at deeper meanings.

    Yun Xiao stayed silent, listening.

    Dean Yu nced at Lian Xi and then back at Yun Xiao, her words heavy with implication, "The Primordial Ruins are a vortex of sin, and Lian Xi is at its eye. Being close to the eye of a storm is perilous; with every moment by her side, your path to doom widens!"

    "So, what''s it gonna be?" Yun Xiao asked, his eyes swirling with determination like swords shing in the clouds.

    "Are you brave enough?" The corners of Dean Yu''s lips curved up ever so slightly.

    "For the favor of a fairdy, I''d wee death with open arms," Yun Xiao dered. He wasn''t talking about bravery, but willingness. And to him, willingness meant no regrets.

    As expected, those words turned the eavesdropping maiden''s eyes red again.

    "Hmm?" Dean Yu''s expression turned peculiar, giving Yun Xiao a sideways nce, "You don''t seem all that innocent. Could it be you''re a seasoned yer in the game of love?"

    "Cough, cough." Yun Xiao coughed awkwardly.

    "Master, that''s enough," Lian Xi turned around and pouted.

    Dean Yu sighed, looking at her helplessly.

    "To be young, how I envy that. In all the Primordial Ruins, I might be the only one who''d approve of your love," she mused. Yun Xiao knew she meant Lian Xi was too precious, and he, too ordinary and unknown.

    But that didn''t faze him.

    "In a couple of days, the Primordial Academy will be recruiting. That''s your chance to stay by Lian Xi''s side," Dean Yu informed him.

    "Can''t you just arrange for me to be a top disciple?" Yun Xiao inquired honestly. That''s how he had done things in the Sword Ruins!

    "If I show you special treatment, it''d only make others look down on you... You have to prove yourself worthy of Lian Xi," Dean Yu advised earnestly.

    "No worries, shower me with all the special treatment you''ve got. I''m not afraid of being looked down upon," Yun Xiao retorted.

    Dean Yu was taken aback. What kind of man was this?

    "Lian Xi, hold on to your brother," she urged, trying to prevent any further loss of dignity.

    "Master, you can leave now," Lian Xi nudged Yun Xiao behind her.

    "Hmm..." Dean Yu gave Yun Xiao onest look, then said, "I wish you both the best," before disappearing.

    "There goes my chance to skyrocket to the heavens," Yun Xiao sighed, a tinge of regret in his voice. The Primordial Ruins were indeed different from the Nine Hells.

    His gaze turned fervently to Lian Xi. If the big fish was out of reach, perhaps the smaller one might still be in y...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Hmm?" Dean Yu''s expression turned peculiar, giving Yun Xiao a sideways nce, "You don''t seem all that innocent. Could it be you''re a seasoned yer in the game of love?"</blockquote>

    n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om</blockquote>

 Chapter 387: Insult Him, and Youre Dead!

    Chapter 387: Insult Him, and You''re Dead!

    After Dean Yu left, Lian Xi showed no intention of heading back to the Primordial Academy. She softly said, looking down, "Let''s make a trip to the Sky Source Ruins."

    "Sky Source Ruins?" Yun Xiao paused before asking, "You want to bring her remains back?"

    "Yes," Lian Xi replied with a somber tone. "Sister Qingwei helped me a lot when I was young, but I..."

    "You''ve got nothing to me yourself for. The ones who deserve to die are others," Yun Xiaoforted.

    Yuan Xianjun''s strike hadid bare the greed and selfishness of those people, something even Yun Xiao hadn''t anticipated, let alone Lian Xi. And now, the tragic end of Yuan Xianjun and his group seemed like just desserts.

    "Hey, are you a Sword Cultivator?" Lian Xi inquired.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Can you carry me on your Sovereign Sword?" Lian Xi asked softly.

    With a nod, Yun Xiao''s fingertips sparked, and the Heaven Burial Sword Soul transformed into a six-foot-long Sovereign Sword, hovering at knee height. He leaped onto it and then reached out to Lian Xi, "Come here."

    "Um..." As Lian Xi took a couple of steps forward, Yun Xiao swiftly grabbed her slender waist and lifted her onto the Sovereign Sword, his movements clearly practiced.

    "Have many people ridden your sword?" Lian Xi, leaning against him, essentially nestled in his arms, whispered.

    Yun Xiao thought of Zhao Xuanran and the War Princess, then replied solemnly, "My sword is usually for ying."

    No sooner had he spoken than he elerated suddenly. With a sh of azure light, they shot off.

    <em>VROOOM! </em>The wind whipped their long hair and robes. Lian Xi smelled wonderful! It was a scent identical to Chen Xi''s, and as Yun Xiao held her waist, guiding the Sovereign Sword, he couldn''t tell the two girls apart unless she spoke. At most, she was just a year younger.

    "This way." Lian Xi directed, and Yun Xiao followed.

    They rode the Sovereign Sword across the bustling streets of the Primordial Ruins, weaving through dense, golden-silver celestial mists. Like a pair of celestial beings perfectly matched, they were a sight to behold.

    "Is someone protecting you?" Yun Xiao whispered in her ear.

    Lian Xi slightly recoiled, her ears turning red as she softly responded, "Yes, there''s always someone watching over me."

    "Does that mean the Primordial Ruins are dangerous?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "In the battle of Immortals, it''s all about resources and gains, with Flying Swords and Life Sigils flying all over the ce. It''s normal for folks to harbor bad intentions," Lian Xi murmured.

    "True... Expecting kindness from others is the cruelest thing you can do to yourself," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Brother..." Lian Xi turned, her worried gaze meeting the side of his face, "My master says it''s too dangerous around me."

    "Shush." Yun Xiao reached out, pinching her cheek, turning her pout into a pink circle, and chuckled, "With me here, it''s the whole Primordial Ruins that''s in danger because I''m the devil of ying."

    That was the most outrageous boast Lian Xi had ever heard. She couldn''t help but nod, a mix ofughter and tears, and conceded, "Alright then."

    Yun Xiao continued to steer the Sovereign Sword, purposely steering the conversation elsewhere, "Lil Xi, how much do you know about me?"

    "Everything from my dreams," Lian Xi said, her voice tinged with nervousness, "You remember everything from the dreams too, right?"

    Yun Xiao hadn''t had any such frivolous dreams! He coughed, smiling, "Prepare yourself; I''m even more ruthless than in your dreams."

    "Trying to scare me, huh!" Lian Xi scoffed.

    She had a rough idea of Yun Xiao''s cultivation level. In her dreams, Yun Xiao had many marvelous aspects, but strength wasn''t one of them. Her closeness to Yun Xiao had nothing to do with this.

    It felt like fate. Yun Xiao was someone who made her feel incredibly at ease. On this Sovereign Sword ride, she pondered a lot. As they neared the Sky Source Ruins, she suddenly said, "No matter what, I''ll protect you."

    Yun Xiao wanted to reassure her that he wasn''t just a freeloader But he ended up just smiling softly, saying, "That''s nice."

    He remembered in the Heavenly Realm, Chen Xi also wanted to take everything upon herself to give him peace.

    And now, Lian Xi seemed to harbor the same thoughts deep down. Perhaps, it was fate! He relished the warmth this fate brought. Everything else, they''d leave to time.

    The Sky Source Ruins were vast, a sprawling expanse where the Great Yuan Residence was just a tiny plot ofnd. As Yun Xiao and Lian Xi descended on the Sovereign Sword, the entrance buzzed with the gaze of many an immortal strong enough to bend the heavens.

    "Is that Lady Lian Xi?" someone emerged from the crowd, the very same Celestial Official Qin who''d proimed the celestial decree previously. Yun Xiao had seen this fellow before, leading souls in ascension exercises beside the celestial temple.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "We''re here for Zhang Qingwei''s remains," Lian Xi stated, her demeanor icy, almost forbidding, a stark contrast to her usual lively charm. It was her shield, Yun Xiao knew, against the world that knew not of her humble beginnings.

    "Her remains? I can''t be sure they''re still... around. But I''ll guide Lady Lian Xi inside to search," Celestial Official Qin offered with a bow and a smile, ignoring Yun Xiaopletely. To him, the worth of a person was clear at a nce.

    They proceeded solemnly, the crowd parting for Lian Xi with bowed heads and hushed whispers. Yun Xiao''s gaze drifted to a group mourning in despair.

    "What''s happened to them?" Lian Xi inquired.

    "The Sky Source Seven of the Yuan Family havemitted grave sins, now known throughout the Primordial Ruins. The Sky Source Immortal decreed their demotion... They''re finished," Celestial Official Qin dered coldly.

    A nce passed between Lian Xi and Yun Xiao. This was karma.

    Celestial Official Qin caught the exchange, filing it away as they stepped into the golden hall.

    "Where are Zhang Qingwei''s remains?" he asked a guard in ck armor.

    "No clue," came the terse reply.

    "Search the area," Celestial Official Qin ordered, then turned to Lian Xi, "The Yuan Family''s fall was sudden, causing chaos here. Please, bear with us."

    "We must find her," Lian Xi pressed.

    "Yes!"

    But when the guard returned empty-handed, Yun Xiao spoke up, "Summon Yuan Wu and Yuan Fu. They likely had a hand in this."

    Lady Lian Xi''s patience was thin as rice paper, her voice a frostymand that cut through the air. "Hurry!"

    Celestial Official Qin, catching the urgency, barked orders at a ck-armoredd, who scurried off with a squad of Primordial Guards in tow. Before long, they dragged in two young men, one with golden eyes, Yuan Wu, and the other with silver, Yuan Fu, their father Yuan Zhantian trailing with a bowed head.

    Yuan Zhantian''s greeting to Lian Xi was cut short by the gravity of their disgrace; their noble house had fallen, and so too must their pride.

    "Kneel!" The guard, following Celestial Official Qin''s silent cue, forced the brothers to the ground. Their ties to Zhang Qingwei, and by extension to Lian Xi, were well known.

    "Where''s her body?" Yun Xiao''s gaze was icy as he addressed Yuan Wu, stirring a storm within thetter. The downfall of their grand ns, the ughter of the Yuan eldersall fingers pointed to Yun Xiao''s meddling.

    "I should''ve ended you in the Nine Hells!" Yuan Wu spat, venom in his voice. His life had spiraled, from nobility to the gutter, a fate worse than death.

    A sharp p from Yuan Zhantian cut through the tension, his realization of the truth swelling his son''s face. "Where is Zhang Qingwei?" he demanded.

    "Hoh? Got yourself anotherdy to hide behind? I see you waste no time in making use of your looks. But what use are you besides that?" Yuan Wu sneered. His fall from grace was too great. It was no different from death!

    "SHUT UP!" Yuan Zhantian, red with rage, silenced his son with another p, desperate for an answer. "Enough nonsense! Just tell them where Zhang Qingwei''s body is!"

    But Yuan Wu turned to Lian Xi, his voice dripping with disdain, "You''re a revered goddess in the eyes many in the Primordial Ruins, a celestial fairy sought after by countless young men. Yet, who knew your tastes would be so base, to lust after a piece of shit found in a lower world?"

    The audacity of the insult left even Celestial Official Qin reeling.

    "H-Have you gone mad?" Yuan Zhantian''s attempt to muzzle his son came toote.

    Lian Xi''s fury was ignited. "Insult me all you want, but dare to nder him, and you''re dead."

 Chapter 388: Who Might You Be?

    Chapter 388: Who Might You Be?

    When Lian Xi got mad, she was like a behemoth unleashed. Appearing in a sh before Yuan Wu, her palm wrapped in thunder and mes thrust forward.

    "Scram!" She shot Yuan Zhantian a re that could freeze hell over.

    "Fairy Lian Xi..." Yuan Zhantian''s voice trembled, but he stepped aside, knowing better than to argue.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a swift smack aimed at Yuan Wu''s head, Lian Xi''s dainty hand descended like a mountain, thunder and fire swirling around it, cracking his chest open before it evennded.

    "Heh." Yuan Wu, seemingly tired of living, cursed and awaited death with a cold smirk, as if enjoying his final moments.

    Just as his head was about to burst, a calm voice intervened, "Hold on, Lil Xi."

    <em>BANG! </em>Lian Xi''s palm veered off course, the thunder and fire in her palm sting a charred crater into the ground, shaking the entire hall.

    "Hah" Yuan Wu, having brushed with death, was not yet ready to part with life. Despite his tough exterior, he was drenched in sweat, gasping for air.

    Everyone was stunned.

    Even Celestial Official Qin and Yuan Zhantian, who had written off Yuan Wu, were taken aback. Yun Xiao, the insulted party, had with a single sentence pulled Lian Xi back from the brink of murder? It was curious, indeed.

    "Why?" Lian Xi, with one hand pinning Yuan Wu to the ground, turned to Yun Xiao with a pout, her nose red with rage, resembling an infuriated little white tiger.

    Chen Xi would get cold when angry, unlike her fierce yet adorable demeanor.

    "Pfft! You''re too chicken to even kill me?" Yuan Wu sneered, regaining hisposure.

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Xiao ignored him, drawing the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, and coldlymanded Lian Xi, "Hold him down."

    "Okay!" Lian Xi obediently nodded.

    Yun Xiao gave the golden-eyed youth a cold nce, then sneered, "Know what? I killed your brother. He thought he could challenge me, but I chopped him up right there."

    "Y-you!!" Yuan Wu''s eyes bulged in shock. Before Yun Xiao and Yuan Wu became sworn enemies, a treacherous plot had already unfolded.

    Without uttering a word, Yun Xiao swiftly brought down his de. <em>SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! </em>In a brutal disy, he severed Yuan Wu''s limbs, each chop sparking mes off the indomitable Heaven Burial Sword Soul. Blood gushed like a fountain.

    Yuan Wu''s screams tore through the air, a mix of agony and despair. Death by a single blow would have been mercy; living limbless was a torment beyond his worst nightmares.

    "Yun Xiao, you''re just a shadow behind a woman, a pitiful sight! You won''t get far..." Before he could finish, Yun Xiao''s de pierced his tongue, silencing his curses with a cruel finality.

    Gagging in pain, Yuan Wu spat out fragments of his tongue, his eyes bulging with rage and pain, rendered speechless by the brutal act.

    Yun Xiao then pinned him down with a foot, calmly stating, "I''ll leave you your eyes so you can witness just how far I can go. Don''t die too soon now."

    Yuan Wu''s eyes, filled with hatred and defiance, locked onto Yun Xiao as hey bleeding profusely.

    Yuan Zhantian, witnessing the horrific scene, clenched his teeth and turned away, overwhelmed by a mix of fear and despair.

    "What''s your name?" Yun Xiao turned his cold gaze to Yuan Zhantian, who remained silent until prodded by Lian Xi.

    "Yuan Zhantian, sir," he finally muttered, bowing his head in submission.

    Yun Xiao issued a chillingmand, "Keep your son alive, but don''t heal him. I''ll be watching. If he dies, so do you."

    Yuan Zhantian''s face contorted with the weight of the grim decree, a father''s worst nightmareid bare before him.

    Yuan Zhantian locked eyes with Yun Xiao again, his look cold and defiant. His re seemed to challenge Yun Xiao''s very essence, as if to say, "And who might you be?"

    Despite their fall from grace, stripped of celestial duties and status, Yuan Zhantian couldn''t fathom why Yun Xiao felt entitled to threaten them.

    In the midst of this tense silence, Lian Xi gently tugged on Yun Xiao''s sleeve and dered with finality, "His words are mine."

    This deration left Yuan Zhantian and his sons with veins of disbelief in their eyes, puzzled by Lian Xi''s unwavering support for Yun Xiao.

    "Yes," Yuan Zhantian finally acquiesced, his voice heavy, "I wouldn''t dream of letting my son die..."

    Yun Xiao could guess the turmoil in their hearts, but this was just the beginning.

    His icy gaze shifted to Yuan Fu, inquiring about the body.

    Stammering, Yuan Fu admitted to having the body moved to the morgue in the eastern temple.

    At this, Celestial Official Qin urgently dispatched a guard, instructing him to use a top-quality ice coffin.

    The golden hall fell back into silence, with Yuan Zhantian and Celestial Official Qin exchanging perplexed looks at the young couple''s closeness.

    Soon, the guard returned with an ice coffin bearing Zhang Qingwei, causing Lian Xi''s heart to sink, her grief palpable. Yun Xiao supported her, assuring her, "We''ll take her home."

    With a heavy heart, Yun Xiao lifted the coffin, his gaze lingering on Zhang Qingwei with a soft sigh.

    "The path of Immortals is fraught with peril, life and death decided in an instant. Decades of arduous cultivation can vanish like mist in a moment."

    After Yun Xiao and Lian Xi had left, Yuan Zhantian and Celestial Official Qin stood side by side, their minds far from peace. With Yuan Wu and Yuan Fu taken away, they were left to ponder the day''s events.

    "Seeing Lian Xi and that young man hand in hand, skin to skin, could it be she''s not the child of disaster we thought?" mused Yuan Zhantian.

    "Not necessarily," Celestial Official Qin replied coolly. "Maybe thed''s got a special knack for soaking up disaster, even if it hasn''t shown yet. Sooner orter, it might just be his undoing."

    "So, Lian Xi''s ying him for a shield, eh?" Yuan Zhantian smirked.

    "Poor fool. If disaster doesn''t do him in, hisck of wit surely will," Celestial Official Qin chuckled, shrugging.

    Yuan Zhantian grinned, "Not the sharpest tool in the shed. Our n might be down, but we''re far from out. He''s made an enemy of us for no good reason. With our connections in the Primordial Ruins, we could have him <em>dealt with</em> five hundred times over in a day."

    "Let''s wait and see how the Primordial Academy ys this. But what about you? Joining the ranks of the Three True Immortals as shadow warriors might not be morous, but it beats being mocked in the streets," Celestial Official Qin raised an eyebrow.

    "The elders are weighing their options. They''ll choose wisely," Yuan Zhantian''s eyes narrowed. "After all, the fault lies with those senile old fools, not us. We''re faithful servants of the Three True Immortals, ready to die for a grand era."

    "Indeed," Celestial Official Qin gazed into the distance. "The grand era is nigh."

    In the Primordial Academy, a brief service was held for a friend Yun Xiao had known but briefly, leaving him feeling somber.

    Theplexities of the Primordial Ruins weighed on himits people, its smog, its beliefs, all swirling in a world where splendor masked the tumultuous depths.

    And still, the Three True Immortals loomed from their prison, reminding Yun Xiao of his dwindling time.

    So, after paying respects with Lian Xi, he dove into cultivation at the Divine Dawn Pavilion, not wasting a moment on sentiment.

    It had been just a night since the Apex Battle in the Nine Hells Conquest sh, and Yun Xiao was stuck at a critical juncture in his cultivation.

    As he focused, Lian Xi sat by, watching him intently, chin in hand.

    Suddenly, Liu Yingying appeared, gesturing urgently to Lian Xi, "Come out here, I need to talk to you."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om</blockquote>

 Chapter 390: Martial Emperor Clan!

    Chapter 390: Martial Emperor n!

    Yun Xiao gazed at her retreating figure, finding even her anger had a certain charm about it. "Hearts are a tangled mess," he mused, a touch of wonder in his voice.

    "That''s the rub," Blue Star chimed in, his words heavy with meaning. "Facing the raw truth of humanity, that''s the real challenge of cultivation."

    Red Moon nodded earnestly, as if this was the most profound thing he''d heard.

    Yun Xiao, teeth almost grinding, pressed on, "Is there really no perfect solution?"

    Blue Star sighed. "A soul can be adorable twice over, but a body? Just the one. This world''s full of wonders, but perfection''s rare. It''s all about choices... What''s your y?"

    "My y?" Yun Xiao scoffed. "This girl''s a beast in human form. She''d tear me to shreds before I couldy a finger on her heart."

    "Not necessarily!" Red Moon piped up, a spark of mischief in his eye. "You could charm her, then strike at the critical moment."

    "Take a hike," Yun Xiao shot back, a re in his eyes.

    "Sure thing!" Red Moon agreed, all too quickly.

    Yun Xiao spared her onest nce. "Guess it''s one step at a time."

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    He was puzzled. The Primordial Immortal Ancestor had handed him a real head-scratcher. Do you love my incarnations of transcending cmity? Which one do you love? She had them in spades.

    Yun Xiao was still lost in thought when Lian Xi and Liu Yingying wrapped up their chat and headed into the Divine Dawn Pavilion together. Lian Xi, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, practically bounced over to Yun Xiao after he had finished his cultivation session.

    Liu Yingying, arms crossed, entuated her curves and made her presence more imposing. Yet her nce at Yun Xiao was icy, peppered with disdain.

    "She looks down on you," Blue Star remarked with a chuckle.

    "I know," Yun Xiao replied, smiling as he weed Lian Xi, his voice soft.

    "Friends like that can be a real pain," Blue Star remarked.

    "Not really, I think she''s kind of cute," Yun Xiao countered.

    "Are you nuts?" Blue Star shot back, incredulous.

    Yun Xiao just shook his head, a gentle smile on his face. "Isn''t theplexity of human nature interesting? Her contempt for me is based on her understanding of the world, which isn''t wrong. She''s just unlucky to have met me."

    The ones who could p back were few and far between. Most folks had to swallow their pride.

    "So, she fights for her interests, looks out for her sister... What''s wrong with that?"

    "Seems like you''ve gained some perspective," Blue Star observed.

    "Seen a lot, learned a lot," Yun Xiao said, then, with a warm smile, embraced Lian Xi as she flew into his arms. He caught her waist and lifted her, spinning several times.

    Lian Xi was all giggles.

    "Put me down, Yingying is here," she protested, eyes wide.

    Yun Xiao let go, and Lian Xi slid down his body, ending up in his arms.

    This familiar understanding made Liu Yingying''s scalp tingle.

    "Hello, Yingying," Yun Xiao greeted, arm around Lian Xi, then turned to Liu Yingying.

    "Hmm," Liu Yingying suppressed her difort and then said to Lian Xi, "I thought you had a <em>touch aversion</em>? You never let anyone touch your skin, howe..."

    "He''s the exception!" Lian Xi interrupted, grabbing Yun Xiao''s hand, beaming. "That''s why I say he''s a gift from the heavens."

    Like something out of a dream.

    "Alright then!" Liu Yingying didn''t belittle Yun Xiao; instead, she even offered a lightugh. "At least no one will use you of being a <em>child of disaster</em> anymore. It''s annoying how people were always out there, praying for the Three True Immortals to burn you."

    "Yep!"

    Lian Xi didn''t linger on the topic but bit her lip and turned to Yun Xiao, "I can''t be with you tonight, I have to go out."

    "Where to?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yingying is going to Huyan Luo''s birthday party, and I''m worried about her, so..."

    Before Lian Xi could finish, Yun Xiao said, "I''ll go too."

    "You''reing too?" Lian Xi blinked, surprised. "Thought you weren''t one for these kinds of gatherings."

    "Like it or not, I''ve gotta go," Yun Xiao said, ncing at Liu Yingying with a grin. "A birthday bash? Sounds like a rich kids'' yground. Gotta keep an eye on my new girl."

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    "Your girl?" Lian Xi''s cheeks flushed, her gaze dropping. "That was quick. I haven''t even said yes."

    "In my dreams, you did," Yun Xiao teased, pinching her cheek. "Brace yourself, I move fast." He added, "Don''t get it twisted, though. Fast doesn''t mean short-lived."

    "Huh?" Lian Xi was dumbfounded.

    What a character! So bold. Yet, utterly endearing.

    "The nerve!" Liu Yingying fumed silently, turning away to hide her outrage. She was sure Yun Xiao was just trying to get a rise out of her, and it was working.

    Why did Lian Xi seem to enjoy it? Normally, she''d knock someone out for less.

    "Let''s all go together, then," Lian Xi beamed.

    "Fine," Liu Yingying agreed, rolling her eyes inwardly. "Go make a fool of yourself."

    As dusk approached, Lian Xi suggested they head out. She snuggled into Yun Xiao''s arm, content in her sweet bubble, oblivious to the world''s chaos.

    A birthday party for the elite?

    Her world revolved around Yun Xiao alone.

    "Something''s off," Blue Star muttered.

    "What''s up?" Red Moon inquired.

    "This incarnation of transcending cmity... clinging to him like she''s hooked," Blue Star puzzled.

    "Yun Xiao''s charm is too much to resist!" Red Moon eximed.

    "Could it be the Primordial Immortal Ancestor''s obsession with him ying tricks? Or has one incarnation''s conquest influenced the others, sending their hearts aflutter?" Blue Star spected.

    "Sounds usible!" Red Moon agreed.

    "Enough with the banter," Yun Xiao snapped, silencing them with a wave.

    "Hey, what''s that you''re humming so quietly?" Lian Xi asked, her curiosity piqued.

    "Nothing much," Yun Xiao replied, casting a nce at Liu Yingying leading the way. "Haven''t really taken in the sights of the Primordial Ruins yet. Fancy a stroll?"

    "I would love to," Lian Xi beamed, a hint of wistfulness in her voice. "I haven''t been out much these past years."

    "Why''s that?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    Liu Yingying, who''d been eavesdropping, turned around to chime in, "She''s been branded a jinx, it''s been a real hassle."

    "A jinx?"

    By then, they''d stepped out of the academy, just as night enveloped thend.

    The bustling night market of the Primordial Ruins unfolded before them like a pce from a dream, lights shimmering in the dusk.

    It was breathtaking.

    The mist, the beauties, the talismans, treasures,ughter, and music, it had it all.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Some folks lurked in the shadows, casting peculiar nces at Yun Xiao and Lian Xi.

    "What do you mean by jinx?" Yun Xiao whispered.

    Liu Yingying, ready to mock Yun Xiao''s ignorance as a sign of lowly origins, bit her tongue. Degrading him would only hurt Lian Xi.

    Though disdain lingered in her heart, Liu Yingying knew that trying to drive a wedge between them would only bind them closer. She needed a better n.

    "A jinx is a descendant of the Martial Emperor n, cursed by the heavens. The merest touch drains others'' vitality," Liu Yingying exined.

    "The Martial Emperor n?" Yun Xiao prodded.

    "Once rulers of the Primordial Ruins, leaders of all ns in the myriad realms," she borated.

    "And then?"

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    Liu Yingying shot Yun Xiao a cold look. "Theymitted unforgivable sins against humanity and were wiped out."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Seems like you''ve gained some perspective," Blue Star observed.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 389 - Too Cute to Let Go!

    <h4>Chapter 389 - Too Cute to Let Go!</h4>

    "What''s the problem?" Lian Xi ambled over to Liu Yingying, her voice soft as a whisper.

    "You remember, don''t you? During the day, Primordial Son Huyan Luo sent us an invitation to his birthday feast. He even mentioned that a top-notch Immortal will be sharing some wisdom on the sword," Liu Yingying spoke, twisting her waist, hands sped behind her back, looking a tad awkward.

    "Oh, right." Lian Xi pondered for a moment. "I''ve decided against going. No time."

    "No time?" Liu Yingying''s lips quivered, a hint of urgency in her tone. "An Immortal sharing knowledge is a golden chance. Folks are tripping over themselves for an invite."

    "Let''s pass this golden ticket to someone else then." Lian Xi had already met one of those Three True Immortals today. They were scrambling over the Nine Hells, how could they zip back just to lecture at some <i>great-grandson''s</i> birthday? With that, she turned to leave.

    "Lian Xi!" Liu Yingying quickly grabbed her arm.

    "Yingying!" Lian Xi''s voice turned icy as she jerked her arm free. "How many times must I say, don''t touch me."

    "Oh... sorry, slipped my mind." Liu Yingying withdrew her hand, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.

    "It''s fine, it''s fine." Lian Xi''s heart softened. "I should be the one apologizing. I was too harsh."

    Silence fell between them for a moment.

    Liu Yingying dabbed at her eyes, asking, "So, you''re really not going?"

    "Not going," Lian Xi confirmed.

    "Alright then, I''ll go alone," Liu Yingying said, biting her lip.

    "Why go alone?" Lian Xi massaged her temples, exasperated.

    "I''d rather not, but dad insists. He wants me to make friends... Given our past, with rumors branding you a disaster, our family made enemies. Now that you''ve made a name for yourself, he sees this as an opportunity... The Primordial Son''s gathering will attract many distinguished gentlemen," Liu Yingying exined, seemingly resigned.

    Lian Xi frowned slightly. "But isn''t it risky for you to go alone?"

    "Risky? The Primordial Son''s friends are all respectable. They wouldn''t dare cause a scene," Liu Yingying shook her head.

    "It''s a mixed bag out there, hard to predict," Lian Xi countered.

    "You see the world in too grim a light. I''ll be fine on my own, trust me. We''ve been like sisters for years. You know I have good fortune, always bumping into benefactors."

    With a forced smile, Liu Yingying waved at Lian Xi. "Well, I better get ready. I''ll wear that dress you gave mest time; it''s stunning."

    "Hold on!" Lian Xi looked up, resigned, "Alright, I''lle with you."

    "Really?" Liu Yingying''s forced smile blossomed into genuine radiance.

    "Well," Lian Xi heaved a sigh, "I did promise to keep you safe, didn''t I?"

    "Exactly," Liu Yingying huffed, "I thought that pretty boy had bewitched you, making you forget your old sister."

    "Don''t you talk about him like that," Lian Xi said, all stern.

    "Eh?" Liu Yingying gasped, whispering, "Is he still here?"

    "Yep." Lian Xi pointed inside the Divine Dawn Pavilion, "He''s staying here now. Next time you visit, dress warm!"

    "What?" Liu Yingying peeked inside and, sure enough, saw Yun Xiao meditating. Her eyes widened in disbelief, "Lian Xi, are you... living together?"

    "Yep," Lian Xi nodded earnestly. "No more separations."

    "Have you lost your mind? Who is he, exactly?" Liu Yingying was baffled.

    "The celestial brother from my dreams, quite the looker," Lian Xi said with a shy chuckle.

    Liu Yingying was speechless. She stewed for a good while before finally leaning in, whispering, "Please, don''t let anyone fool you."

    "He''s not fooling me," Lian Xi said calmly.

    "No!" Liu Yingying took a deep breath, her face serious, "Do you realize how esteemed you are now? The line of young men from the Primordial Ruins wanting to woo you could stretch to the Forgotten Demon Seas. From the highborn to the prodigies, the pick of the litter is yours..."

    "Stop right there," Lian Xi''s pretty face turned frosty, "Say one more word, and I''ll be mad."

    "Lian Xi..." Liu Yingying was fraught with worry. She nced at Yun Xiao, her expression turning icy, "I''m saying this for your good. Cultivators don''t need partners. You can reach the heavens on your own. It''s fine if you don''t like men, but there''s no need to pick someone at random as a shield. It''ll only lower your standing and invite ridicule. It hurts you, and him, causing unnecessary turmoil."

    "What are you on about? I really like him. For real," Lian Xi insisted.

    "Crazy," Liu Yingying was visibly upset, her chest heaving with anger. She bit her lip, pleading, "Please, can we not be love-blind? What good is he besides his looks? He''s not even at the Genesis Spirit Realm, barely in the Heaven Sanctuary Realm. I''m mediocre at best in the Primordial Academy, and he''s about my age, yet not even on my level... Don''t let a moment''s impulse ruin your future."

    "Enough," Lian Xi red at her, her voice icy, "This is thest time. If you keep badmouthing him, don''t bothering around. It''s annoying."

    Liu Yingying was struck dumb. She stared at the stubborn, obstinate Lian Xi, lost for words.

    "I''m sorry," she finally lowered her head, swallowing her confusion and indignation, choking up, "Lian Xi, I was wrong to bber. Please, don''t leave me behind."

    Lian Xi took a deep breath, squeezing out a smile, "I won''t, sis."

    "I truly care about you, wanting only the best. These years haven''t been easy for you, your achievements hard-won. You''ve earned respect and reverence. I fear one wrong step could ruin it all," Liu Yingyingmented.

    "Easy now," Lian Xi paused, "Just trust me on this."

    "Mm..." Liu Yingying looked at her, her eyes still tinged with resignation. It was undeniable. But she recognized that the girl before her was no longer the scruffy little thing her father had taken in. She had grown up.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Divine Dawn Pavilion, Yun Xiao was lost in his own world.

    "Merge the Dao Heart with the Fate Ocean, and from the Heaven Sanctuary, the Genesis Spirit is born."

    The crucial step from the Fate Ocean Realm to the Heaven Sanctuary Realm involved etching the Dao Heart onto the Dantian, elevating its strength.

    After half an hour of meticulous work, Yun Xiao had inscribed a tapestry of worldly life onto the inner wall of his Dantian.

    This tapestry, drawn stroke by stroke with his own hand, wasn''t just an ordinary scene. It depicted not only themon folk but also the sins, abysses, demons, devils, and the dark hearts of men...

    The paths he had trodden, the mournful songs of the Seven Prodigies of Azure Spirit, the Forbidden Tower within the Sea of Swords littered with corpses, the demon hordes of the Northern Wastnds, the battlegrounds of the Heavenly Realm, the fierce shes in the Nine Hells... all were etched into this tapestry.

    Each figure, each expression, was brought to life with vivid detail.

    This was a part of his Worldly Dao Heart. As his Dao Heart grew, so too did his cultivation transform rapidly.

    Blue Star and Red Moon had refined almost one billion Immortal Jades to create countless enhanced Heavenly Dao Sariras!

    As Yun Xiao entered a <i>high-energy</i> state, engrossed in inscribing his Dao Heart onto the walls of his Dantian, the sacred power within his Nine Suns Dantian also surged, breaking through and strengthening continuously.

    Soon, the inner wall of his Dantian was adorned with aplex tapestry, shining brightly.

    "Breaking through three stages in one go, reaching the Late Heaven Sanctuary Realm."

    But that was just the realm. With Yun Xiao''s currentbat prowess, he could take on a significant portion of those in the Genesis Spirit Realm.

    "Not relying on my body double or Blood Base, I''ve got some real strength now."

    Despite the rapid advancements, breaking through several stages at once, Yun Xiao understood well that cultivation couldn''t be rushed. He was still using the War Princess to keep an eye on those Three True Immortals!

    "The resources of the Nine Hells are nearly spent. Next, I''ll need to rely on Lian Xi, using the Primordial Ruins as a stepping stone."

    Yun Xiao had his eyes on the prize! The Nian, he aimed to conquer! The Immortal Asylum, he sought to im! Any challenger in his path was asking for trouble. No matter who dared, they were all fair game.

    "Intruding on my turf, eyeing my treasures? Don''t me me when I return the favor, raiding your stronghold." He steadied his breath, plotting his next moves.

    First off, securing his spot as a disciple at the Primordial Academy was key, allowing him to operate in broad daylight. The uing academy examination was crucial.

    Still getting they of thend in the Primordial Ruins, Yun Xiao wasn''t quite sure where he stood with his current might.

    While catching his breath, he nced outside.

    "Liu Yingying." He saw Lian Xi chatting with a slender girl in a pink dress, ripe as a peach and just as tempting.

    But Yun Xiao, no stranger to such sights, remained unphased. His gaze lingered on Lian Xi''s figure... Pure, ethereal, otherworldly, youthful, tender... ahem! Right up his alley!

    "How do I bring Chen Xi back?" Yun Xiao murmured.

    "Slice open her heart, infuse it with the Transcending Cmity Crystal," Blue Star suggested.

    "What?" Yun Xiao blinked, "Slice open her heart? Wouldn''t Lian Xi die?"

    "Exactly, she''s meant to die," Blue Star retorted with wide eyes.

    "No!" Yun Xiao clenched his teeth, "I''m serious, no jokes."

    "I''m not joking either," Blue Star crossed his arms, "The Transcending Cmity Crystal in your hand is Chen Xi''s lifeline. Her revival means the demise of another Transcending Cmity Incarnation, doesn''t it?"

    Yun Xiao fell silent.

    "There''s got to be another way, right?" he probed.

    "What, got a new me and forgot the old? Or is it because this one''s a year younger, seems cuter?" Blue Star teased, "No need to hide it, you''re not some lovestruck fool. Face your <i>worldly heart</i> honestly."

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "I just think it''s wrong to save one life at the expense of another." n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "What if it meant sacrificing Liu Yingying for Chen Xi''s return?" Blue Star leaned in, pressing, "Don''t overthink it, just answer from the heart."

    "I''d do it on the spot." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "So, you''re just finding this one too adorable to let go." Blue Star chuckled

 Chapter 391 - Martial Emperor Clan Conspiracy, Line Between Good and Evil Blurred

    <h4>Chapter 391 - Martial Emperor n Conspiracy, Line Between Good and Evil Blurred</h4>

    Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow and nced at Lian Xi, "What kind of grave mistake warrants extermination?"

    Liu Yingying smirked coldly, a bit sickened, "The Martial Emperor n had been beefing up their bodies with martial arts for ages, revered by all. But once the truth came out, it turned out they were unforgivably vile acts!"

    "And what''s this truth?" Yun Xiao prodded.

    "They were yanking out young girls'' hearts for some twisted body-enhancing ritual!" Liu Yingying shivered at the thought. "Rumor has it, for hundreds of years, countless girls lost their hearts because of them!"

    Lian Xi muttered, "Those are just rumors..."

    Liu Yingying''s eyes shed with disdain, "Rumors don''t juste from thin air. Because of their centuries of sins, the heavens cursed them, dragging everyone in the Primordial Ruins into misery. What was once the Five Cmities Realm turned into the Five Decays Realm, making life a living hell for everyone..."

    "From Five Cmities to Five Decays, what''s that mean?"

    This piece of history was crucial for Yun Xiao as he strolled through the market, eager to soak up as much information as possible, especially since it seemed tied to Lian Xi.

    "That''s the checkpoint for the Second Dao Tribtion, way over your head. Knowing now will only add to your sorrows," Liu Yingying dismissed.

    "Checkpoint?"

    Yun Xiao figured the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm was the First Dao Tribtion''s checkpoint. It was the sixth realm where one transformed magic power into sacred power, aiming to be a Saint and then Awakened Emperor.

    So, the Five Cmities to Five Decays had to be the sixth realm of the Second Dao Tribtion.

    "That means it''s two whole realms above the Genesis Spirit Realm," Yun Xiao noted to himself.

    Was this the peak of the Primordial Ruins?

    Seeing Liu Yingying''s sneer at Yun Xiao, Lian Xi couldn''t hide her annoyance, clinging to his arm, "Originally, the Second Dao Tribtion''s sixth realm was called the Five Cmities Realm. Though tough, not many perished. But then, it all changed to the Five Decays Realm, where one faces five severe declines, each bringing a deadly illness. Surviving one is lucky; by the end, out of a hundred, maybe three make it through, the rest die."

    "Can''t you dy the breakthrough? Or just not progress to avoid the cmity?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    Realms changing? How bizarre!

    "Nope. Once you hit the Five Decays Realm, the five deadly trials hit you like clockwork, no stopping them," Lian Xi sighed.

    "The death toll''s indeed steep..." Yun Xiao paused, "Does this happen in other realms too?"

    Liu Yingying crossed her arms, chiming in, "You can''t reach the Five Decays Realm in just any old realm."

    "So what if I make a break for it and leave the Primordial Ruins when it''s crunch time?"

    "No dice. Once you''ve trained in the Primordial Ruins, your fate''s sealed," Lian Xi exined.

    Yun Xiao''s heart sank. "Great, I''m in for the Five Decays," he muttered, remembering his training sessions in the Primordial Ruins.

    "It''s a headache only the gifted and the mighty endure," Liu Yingying tossed in, a tad coldly, suggesting he might be worrying over nothing.

    "Fair enough," Yun Xiao conceded, looking up.

    Above, the <i>moon</i> of the Primordial Ruins ship''s stern hung high, casting a ghostly moon-white glow through the mystic fog, blessing this celestial vessel with its essence.

    The sun and moon were the heart and soul of cultivation here!

    A hundred entered, and barely three walked out alive?

    That was downright terrifying.

    Training only to find the path ahead wasn''t a stairway to heaven but a plunge into the abyss.

    "Thank heavens for the Three True Immortals! They exposed the Martial Emperor n''s wickedness and shared the Ascension Technique, boosting our survival rate threefold. Now, ten out of a hundred might survive, saving the Primordial Ruins from eternal decline..." Liu Yingying stood devoutly, eyes closed, hands pressed together, murmuring her thanks to the heavens while Yun Xiao and Lian Xi exchanged nces and moved on.

    "So, the descendants of the Martial Emperor n turned into pariahs?" Yun Xiao whispered to Lian Xi.

    "Yes."

    "And how can you tell them apart?"

    Lian Xi nced at their intertwined hands. "A pariah... burns through the flesh and spirit of any other race upon contact."

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao grinned, "But not you."

    "Of course not," Lian Xi beamed back.

    But Yun Xiao knew the truth. She was one. Their ability to hold hands was simple: Yun Xiao''s body was far from human. Human was just one part of him.

    As for the tales of the Martial Emperor n, the Three True Immortals, and their feuds, it all made sense once you knew about the All Life Devouring Gu. It was easier to see the picture when you were not in the frame.

    "In a world where the line between devils and men blurs, the Martial Emperor n bears sins for eons," Liu Yingying mused to herself.

    Lian Xi, her head resting on Yun Xiao''s shoulder, looked downcast.

    Yun Xiao stroked her hair gently, whispering, "History''s penned by those who win. Triumph, and the world will sing praises of the Martial Emperor n."

    Lian Xi trembled slightly, looking at him in disbelief.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze drifted to the bustling streets of the Primordial Ruins, alive with lights,ughter, and an endless sea of people. Amongst the revelry, some cast sly nces their way, their eyes gleaming with malice.

    Every few steps, an incense burner puffed out thick smoke, hiding sinister red eyes and venomous whispers that cursed through the air, "The afflicted shall reveal themselves and atone for their sins..."

    Before long, they stood before a grand and majesticplex, its buildings soaring like sword tips into the night, casting shadows that seemed to howl in the wind.

    At the entrance, a ten-foot ck and gold que bore three bold characters, <i>Human Zenith Ruins.</i>

    This was the domain of the Human Zenith Immortal, the forefather of swordsmen, revered by all Sword Cultivators in the Primordial Ruins.

    "The Mysterious Sword Manor, home of the Primordial Son, lies within these ruins," Liu Yingying muttered.

    The Great Yuan Residence was nestled in the Sky Source Ruins. Yet, the status of the Mysterious Sword Manor far exceeded that of the Great Yuan Residence, being the direct lineage of the Human Zenith Immortal and a leading n of swordsmanship.

    As they approached, they were promptly greeted and led to the front of the Mysterious Sword Manor.

    "Wee, Lady Lian Xi, Miss Liu," greeted a young man in white brocade, holding a folding fan, his demeanor as graceful as a jade prince, pure and unblemished.

    His gaze was sharp, yet his expression was soft, and his smile was as warm as sunlight, exuding a well-bred aura that screamed Primordial Ruins nobility with an unfathomable depth of cultivation.

    "Master Song," Liu Yingying''s cheeks flushed slightly as she approached him, a hint of nervousness in her grace.

    "Let me introduce you, Lian Xi. This is Master Song Bomei from Clearcreek Manor. His father is..."

    Before she could finish, the gentleman in white cut in with a smile, "Miss Liu, a simple introduction is enough."

    Liu Yingying, charmed by his familiar call, nodded understandingly.

    Then, Master Song''s gazended on Yun Xiao, who was hand-in-hand with Lian Xi. Without missing a beat, he smiled and greeted, "And who might this gentleman be?"

    "He''s Yun Xiao," Liu Yingying introduced.

    "A young talent with exceptional demeanor!" Song Bomei eximed with a smile, then stepped aside, "The Primordial Son is a bit tied up, so he asked me to host you. Please forgive any shorings. Come in!"

    "Master Song is too kind," Liu Yingying replied, moving forward to walk alongside him, their conversation flowing easily, a clear match in their interactions.

    "Looks like the young man''s on a mission," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Boring," Lian Xi pursed her lips, "Can''t be bothered with her. When it''s time, I''ll just drag her away."

    "Do they owe you a favor?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Yes..."

    As they spoke, they entered avishly decorated hall, shining with the splendor of a celestial pce. Yun Xiao nced around to see hundreds of tablesden with exotic delicacies he''d never seen before, their fragrances betraying their celestial origins.

    But what caught his eye the most was the wine.

    Yun Xiao''s interest was piqued at the sight of the exquisite wine jugs on the tables, like a wolf among sheep. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The hall was already filling up with celestial descendants, mingling in small groups rather than sitting, forming their own circles.

    "That..."

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi exchanged a nce, both starting to speak at once.

    "A drink right now doesn''t sound too bad..." Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Neither does a snack?" Lian Xi added.

    After a brief pause, they both smiled sweetly at the serendipity.

    "Enough, you two might as well get married right here, exchange vows, and start a family!" Blue Star eximed, overwhelmed by their synergy.

 Chapter 392 - No Booze I Cant Handle!

    <h4>Chapter 392 - No Booze I Can''t Handle!</h4>

    As long as there was booze, the trip was worth it. The wine of the Primordial Ruins, now that was a drop of heaven.

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi, not ones for formalities, found themselves a spot on the edge, setting up shop like they owned the ce. Gifts were given, so why not enjoy the party, right?

    These two peas in a pod seemed to be in a world of their own, giving poor Liu Yingying a headache. The young hotshots of the Primordial Ruins wanted to approach Lian Xi, but got warned off by Song Bomei with just a look.

    The young crowd, sharp as tacks, didn''t need a second nce to see the sparks flying between Lian Xi and Yun Xiao. They knew the birthday bash was about to get interesting. The Primordial Son made his move in public, but Lian Xi wasn''t having any of it, bringing Yun Xiao along like a shield. This was basically a p in the face.

    Lian Xi didn''t actuallye with this intention, but no one would believe her.

    "Those two really are immature," Liu Yingying muttered, biting her lip and giving Song Bomei an apologetic smile. "Lian Xi''s always been straight as an arrow, not much for social graces. I hope you don''t take it to heart."

    Song Bomei cracked a smile, shaking his head with a sigh. "Being genuine is a rare gift. It''s that pure heart of hers that''s taken her so far. I''ve got nothing but respect. Why would I mind?"

    "That''s a relief. Let them eat and drink their fill," Liu Yingying said, breathing easier and shing Song Bomei a sweet smile.

    "But there''s something I''ve got to apologize for," Song Bomei said, looking regretful.

    "Apologize?" Liu Yingying blinked in surprise. What was there to apologize for now?

    "Yes, it was my oversight, and I''m truly sorry. Ah..." Song Bomei clenched his teeth.

    "What''s the trouble?" Liu Yingying asked, her nerves kicking in.

    "Well..." Song Bomei nced over at Yun Xiao, who was happily sipping away. "The Primordial Son wanted to treat our guests right, so he had me buy a batch of Genesis Spirit Essence to mix into the wine."

    "Genesis Spirit Essence?" Liu Yingying''s mouth fell open in shock. "That''s a divine elixir, worth a fortune! It can nourish the spirit and help with breakthroughs. The Primordial Son''s using it to entertain? That''s beyond generous. What''s there to apologize for?"

    After hearing that, she was ready to ditch decorum and grab a drink herself.

    "But the thing is..." Song Bomei rubbed his forehead, "I forgot to give Yun Xiao a heads-up about it."

    "He''s had too much?" Liu Yingying''s face turned red with embarrassment. "I''ll go tell him right now. Sorry about this. This guy, I swear, must''ve crawled out of some backwater, not a clue about manners. My apologies for the spectacle."

    "Stop!" Song Bomei said, grabbing her hand urgently. "You''ve got it all wrong. The Genesis Spirit Essence is a treasure, alright. For those in the Genesis Spirit Realm or above, it''s a game-changer. But for anyone below that, taking it prematurely could spell disaster. At best, you''re looking at a night hugging the porcin throne, at worst... it''s curtains. And Yun Xiao, well, he''s downed three jugs already!"

    "Wait, what? You mean he might..." Liu Yingying''s face tightened at the thought, already stepping back, hoping nobody would connect her with Yun Xiao''s impending disaster.

    "My apologies!" Song Bomei looked genuinely distressed. "The guests Primordial Son invites are all Genesis Spirit Realm or above. I just... I didn''t think..."

    "This isn''t on you," Liu Yingying said, feeling a chill run down her spine as she nced at Yun Xiao, who was, in broad daylight, clinking cups with Lian Xi.

    Steam was practicallying out of her ears. No matter how dashing the guy, this embarrassment was too much, and she found herself cursing him under her breath.

    "The priority now is to get him out of here before that Essence hits full force," Song Bomei said, too embarrassed to spell out the potentially humiliating consequences at such a refined gathering.

    "Alright, I''ll talk to him," Liu Yingying said, taking a deep breath and heading towards Yun Xiao and Lian Xi.

    Song Bomei followed, a slight smirk on his face. They''d been prepared for Yun Xiao''s arrival, having decided on the Genesis Spirit Essence long before. This was their big y, a way to make Yun Xiao embarrass himself without directly offending Lian Xi. If anything went wrong, it''d all be chalked up to Yun Xiao''s own recklessness.

    As Yun Xiao guzzled down the wine, some guests were quietly pleased, seeing their n unfold.

    "Like a fish out of water, stumbling into a den of dragons," Song Bomei thought smugly, sitting down with Liu Yingying beside Yun Xiao and Lian Xi. The table was set for four, perfectly excluding Yun Xiao from the original n.

    But then, Yun Xiao suddenly closed his eyes, his face contorting, his breath heavy.

    "Yun Xiao, you feeling alright?" Song Bomei asked, feigning concern.

    Liu Yingying recoiled, fearing the worst.

    Without a word, Yun Xiao clenched his fists, the whole table shaking under his grip. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "It''s happening. He can''t handle it," Liu Yingying thought, her face turning pale as she stepped back, ready for the fallout.

    There wasn''t even time to suggest leaving. Liu Yingying''s scalp tingled with dread, cursing inwardly, "If you can''t handle your liquor, why drown yourself in it?"

    "Yun Xiao, you alright there? Need me to call a miracle worker?" Song Bomei''s <i>concern</i> was palpable.

    Then, a rumble from Yun Xiao, followed by a long, relieved sigh.

    Liu Yingying yelped and stumbled back, almost kissing the floor. Song Bomei, too, jumped up, ready to shield his nose and mouth, barely holding back a chuckle at the unfolding drama.

    Themotion turned heads, drawing a mix of curious and bemused nces.

    "Sis, you okay?" Lian Xi clung to his arm, innocently curious.

    Yun Xiao, with a belch that broke the silence, stretched and announced, "All good. Just had a breakthrough."

    "A breakthrough? Congrats!" Lian Xi''s smile was pure sunshine.

    Liu Yingying braced for a nightmare scene of embarrassment. But a breakthrough?

    She stared at Yun Xiao, dumbfounded, seeing no signs of the anticipated disaster.

    Song Bomei was equally bbergasted. "Y-you''re really okay?" His mind was a whirlwind of confusion.

    "What''s to worry about with the Primordial Son''s grand hospitality and fine wine?" Yun Xiao smiled at Song Bomei, lifting another jug. "This brew, it''s got something special in it, right? Felt a warm rush straight to the Perfect Heaven Sanctuary Realm."

    Song Bomei''s face twisted awkwardly. "Ah, about that... the Primordial Son added Genesis Spirit Essence to the wine. Slipped my mind to mention it, my apologies."

    Liu Yingying breathed a sigh of relief. "Far from being a problem, this turned out to be a stroke of luck. Genesis Spirit Essence is a rarity, most can only dream of it."

    "Right you are!" Yun Xiao jiggled the empty jug, a tad sheepish. "Uh, this one''s dry. Mind if I have another? Maybe with a bit more of that Essence, I can take it."

    Song Bomei forced a smile, ordering more wine. "Seems like you know your drink. The Mysterious Sword Manor is known for its wine and Sword Immortals. Any particr favorite?"

    Yun Xiao, eyeing Lian Xi, asked, "Got any Tiger Rod Wine? The fierce, fiery kind."

    Lian Xi''s cheeks flushed at the mention, as if the very name of the wine was a secret nod to her.

    "Tiger Rod Wine, you say?" Song Bomei''s gaze sharpened. "Seems you''vee prepared. The Mysterious Sword Manor''s Tiger Rod Wine is legendary, brewed from the finest of demon tiger rods. Not for the faint-hearted."

    "No worries, my Lian Xi''s built different, not your average jade beauty," Yun Xiao quipped, casually draping an arm around Lian Xi, casting a challenging look at Song Bomei. "Bring it on, the more, the merrier."

    Liu Yingying''s vision darkened, nearly losing her cool. "The nerve!" she thought. Poor Lian Xi, so young, and here Yun Xiao was, making bold jokes in front of everyone.

    The crowd, especially the young ones, frowned deeply. Was this some kind of power y?

    "Sure thing," Song Bomei replied, his smile hiding the storm within.

    "Oh, and don''t skimp on the Genesis Spirit Essence," Yun Xiao added, "the current kick''s barely tickling."

    "No problem at all!" Song Bomei managed, barely containing his urge to draw swords.

    The murmurs around them grew. "A toast unepted is a penalty to drink?"

    "Thisd''s clueless about being a pawn, floating on cloud nine."

    "He won''t cry till he sees his own grave..."

    Soon, the Tiger Rod Wine arrived, brimming with Genesis Spirit Essence.

    "Give my thanks to the Primordial Son," Yun Xiao nodded to Song Bomei.

    "He''ll be here shortly. Thank him yourself," Song Bomei replied.

    "Fair enough." Yun Xiao nced at the jug big enough for a small pond on their table, offering some to Song Bomei. "Care to join?"

    Gritting his teeth, Song Bomei declined, "It''s a bit too bold for my pte, excuse me."

    With that, he and Liu Yingying mingled with the other distinguished guests, leaving Yun Xiao and Lian Xi to their devices, looking like two introverts hiding in a corner.

    "May this liquor be your undoing," Liu Yingying shot him a re before disappearing into the glitzy crowd. But she couldn''t help but wonder how Yun Xiao was still standing after all that Essence?

    "Want a sip?" Yun Xiao teased Lian Xi.

    "Drink your head!" Lian Xi blushed, looking for a hole to bury herself in.

    Who in their right mind would drink such a thing? It felt outright barbaric...

 Chapter 393: Tasty Bait? Why Not Bite! Lets See Him Cry!

    Chapter 393: Tasty Bait? Why Not Bite! Let''s See Him Cry!

    Before long, the guests all arrived, filling the opulent hall with the finest immortal youths of the Primordial Academy. Yet, none of them took a seat. Normally, the host would already be there to greet everyone. So, this peculiar affair of the host making the guests wait was a testament to the status of the Primordial Son, Huyan Luo!

    Finally, amidst the sea of anticipatory nces, Huyan Luo with his ghost-white eyes made his entrance, nked by his inner circle. d in gold, his youthful face crowned and hair neatly tied, hemanded the room with a presence that belied his age.

    "Wee, everyone!" Huyan Luo dered from his elevated position.

    Soon, he received a chorus of well-wishes as the guests took their seats, the atmosphere tinged with a hint of formality.

    At a nce, it was clear that the Primordial Son''s mood was somewhat off, likely due to a certain someone not only avoiding embarrassment but also making off with a significant haul of Genesis Spirit Essence.

    Afterwards, the celebrations began. Fireworks lit up the sky, a spectacle seemingly more suited for the pair of lovebirds tucked away in a corner than for the actual asion itself. There was song and dance followed by a round of toasts. The atmosphere was lively, exuding taste and ss. Yet, there was still an underlying tension prickling at the edges of the festivities.

    Huyan Luo''s youth made it hard for him to mask his emotions. Just as the birthday feast seemed to wane, a dazzling streak of gold and ck descended from the heavens.

    When the golden-ck brilliance touched down right in front of Huyan Luo, lighting up the whole scene, everyone''s eyes were glued to the spectacle.

    "What''s that?" Liu Yingying asked Song Bomei. The two were now standing so close, they might as well have been one.

    Having had a bit too much to drink, Liu Yingying''s cheeks flushed with a rosy tint as she leaned in closer.

    Song Bomei, seizing the moment, let his hand rest gently on her leg, a move she didn''t resist. Such intimacy was not umon in these high-brow gatherings.

    Song Bomei, puzzled at first by Liu Yingying''s question, soon lit up with a realization, "That''s a gift from the Human Zenith Immortal!"

    It wasmon knowledge that the Human Zenith Immortal had ventured into a lower world and was unlikely to return to impart his swordsmanship wisdom. Yet, here he was, sending a gift to the Primordial Son, a clear sign of favor.

    "A gift?" The word alone sent a ripple of envy through the crowd.

    The usually stern Primordial Son sprang to his feet, his eyes sparkling with delight. He rushed to the orb of light, and with just one nce, he was overjoyed, dropping to his knees in gratitude.

    "Descendant Huyan Luo thanks the supreme ancestor, the Human Zenith Immortal!" he eximed, bowing deeply thrice.

    His excitement was palpable, indicating that this gift held more value to him than any teachings could.

    Curiosity piqued, the crowd pressed, "What is it, Primordial Son?"

    With a smile, Huyan Luo revealed, "A Cmity Bone."

    The hall buzzed with the revtion, the assembly of immortal talents gasping in awe and envy.

    "Cmity Bone... It seems the Human Zenith Immortal truly holds the Primordial Son in high regard."

    "With the Cmity Bone in his pocket, the Primordial Son won''t ever fret about his Sword Aura for the rest of his days."

    Even the seasoned folks in the room, with all their experience, couldn''t hide their envy.

    Yun Xiao, with a gleam in his eye, couldn''t help but ask, "What''s this fantastic thing?"

    Lian Xi, ever so softly, filled him in, "It''s the core bone of a Cmity Demon from the Forgetful Demon Seas, a real game-changer for boosting Sword Aura."

    "And how much of a boost are we talking?" Yun Xiao prodded.

    "Rumor has it, it can shoot your Sword Aura from 100,000yers up to 300,000yers," Lian Xi whispered.

    Yun Xiao was gobsmacked. Those numbers were beyond his wildest dreams, practically unheard of. In a somewhat sour tone, he joked, "Think your master might spare one for me?"

    Lian Xi couldn''t help butugh. "Dream on. It''s not like they''re handing them out like cabbages."

    Yun Xiao, his eyes still glued to that bone, was a mix of admiration, jealousy, and a touch of spite. "How about you snag it for me?" he half-joked to Lian Xi.

    Lian Xi just rolled her eyes. "Yeah, right. Like I''m invincible. Nab that, and we''d end up on the run, can''t even stick around the Primordial Ruins."

    "Figures, it''s a gift from the Human Zenith Immortal to his descendant," Yun Xiao mused, feeling the heat of his envy but knowing there wasn''t a thing he could do about it.

    Lian Xi pointed out, "And you see those patterns? Those are bloodline seals. Only someone with the Human Zenith Immortal''s bloodline can truly harness it. If anyone else tries, they''d only be able to absorb a fraction of its power."

    "Any chance of breaking those seals?" Yun Xiao asked, hopeful.

    "Not a chance," Lian Xi shook her head. "If you try, the bone self-destructs."

    So, that was that. The bone was off-limits to outsiders, locked down by bloodline.

    All anyone could do was watch and wish the Primordial Son well, as he received his extraordinary gift amidst a chorus of genuine congrattions from the assembly of immortal talents.

    "With this Cmity Bone, the Primordial Son''s Sword Aura is set till he reaches 18 years old," Song Bomei remarked, impressed by the grandeur of the gift from the Human Zenith Immortal.

    Liu Yingying nced at Lian Xi, her face a mix of gloom and envy. Howe she couldn''t see the charm in the well-born Primordial Son, opting instead for someone utterly baffling and infuriating? All she could do was sigh.

    The birthday bash hit its peak, fueled by the Human Zenith Immortal''s generous gift. The Primordial Son loosened up, reveling in the festivities withughter and wine.

    Liu Yingying, too, joined in, cozying up with Song Bomei, much to Lian Xi''s dismay.

    "Seems like you don''t trust her choice in men, and she doesn''t trust yours. You''re even," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Guess so," Lian Xi sighed, puzzled why her big sister couldn''t see eye to eye with her.

    "I''m just worried for her, being in the delicate position I am at the Primordial Ruins. I don''t want her to get used because of me," Lian Xi expressed her concern.

    "It''s pretty obvious," Yun Xiao agreed, noting Liu Yingying''s background didn''t stack up to the elite crowd here, and Song Bomei''s intentions were clear as day.

    "I don''t care. Tonight, I''m dragging her back home, no matter what. We''ll sort the rest outter," Lian Xi resolved, biting her lip.

    "Right," Yun Xiao nodded, standing apart from the merry-making, yet aware of the cold nces thrown their way from the corners of some eyes.

    Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted.

    "The Primordial Son has an announcement!" Song Bomei dered, his face beaming with joy.

    The crowd, sensing the moment, hushed and turned their attention to Huyan Luo.

    When Huyan Luo extended his hand, the Cmity Bone appeared as if summoned by magic. He looked around the room and said, "To show my gratitude for your presence today, I''ve decided to share the power of this Cmity Bone. However, it''s locked by bloodline, so how much you Sword Cultivators can absorb depends entirely on your own bloodline and talent."

    The crowd was stunned. Nearly half of those present were Sword Cultivators, about 50 in total.

    "Is this for real, Primordial Son?" someone asked, incredulous.

    Huyan Luo just smiled, "You''re not direct descendants of the Human Zenith Immortal, so you won''t be able to absorb much. Consider it a taste of good fortune!"

    Despite this, everyone was overjoyed. "To share in the Primordial Son''s birthday fortune is a blessing for us all," they said, showering him with ttery, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

    With a casual flick, Huyan Luo sent the Cmity Bone floating mid-air, its eerie glow enticing everyone. "Come up one by one, by table," he instructed.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The first to step forward was a young man in green. "Thank you, Primordial Son," he said, as he summoned his Sword Soul.

    It was a stunning de, dual-colored in cyan and white, adorned with six Sword Rings and a Sword Aura of 40,000yers!

    "Who''s that?" Liu Yingying asked Song Bomei, her face flushed with excitement.

    "That''s Chen Quan from Dongli Estate, with an Upper Aurum grade Sword Soul," Song Bomei exined.

    Yun Xiao overheard. He remembered the highest-ranking Life Sigil in the Nine Hells was the Talisman Emperor''s Sovereign Sigil. But that was only Lower Aurum grade. Here, even a youngd surpassed that.

    The young man in green thrust his Sword Soul into the vortex of the Cmity Bone. A roar emanated from the bone, revealing the visage of a giant shark that snapped viciously at the cyan-white Sword Soul, creating a crisp cracking sound.

    "Can this Cmity Bone actually attack a Sword Soul?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but wonder aloud.

    "Sure can. Cmity Demons are notoriously fierce," Lian Xi paused before adding, "But this guy should be fine. His Sword Aura''s strong, should withstand the bone''s bacsh."

    Right as she finished, the green-dd got knocked back, his Sword Soul vibrating like a plucked string.

    "Deserves its name, this Cmity Bone!" he got up, rubbing the back of his head, a tad disappointed. "Managed to absorb just 30yers of Sword Aura, but still, a big thanks to the Primordial Son."

    "Next," came the Primordial Son''s call, all smiles.

    The Sword Cultivators lined up, eager for their turn.

    Lian Xi couldn''t help butment, "Outsiders only get about 30yers, a mere drop for them. No wonder the Primordial Son is being so generous."

    Fifty folks, 30yers each, didn''t even make a dent in the Cmity Bone''s potential to boost a Sword Aura by hundreds of thousands ofyers.

    "He''s not generous; he''s out to break my Sword Soul," Yun Xiao said with a casualugh.

    "What?" Lian Xi blinked in surprise, "He''s setting you up? You think he''s trying to bait you?"

    "Yep. If I end up dead, he''ll just say I was too greedy, couldn''t handle the bacsh. And you can''t do a thing," Yun Xiao said cheerfully.

    "That''s low," Lian Xi clenched her fists, d her brother saw through the plot. "If they try to provoke us, we won''t bite."

    Just then, Yun Xiao stood up.

    "What are you doing?" Lian Xi asked.

    Yun Xiao straightened his clothes, saying with a smile, "Can''t wait any longer, I''m off to queue!"

    Lian Xi hurriedly pulled him back. "Didn''t we just figure out their scheme? And you''re still going?"

    "That''s right," Yun Xiao affirmed.

    "Why? I''m lost," Lian Xi asked, puzzled.

    Yun Xiao just smiled, ncing at the Primordial Son. "Because I want to see him cry right here and now."

 Chapter 394: Tragedy, Despair, a Lifetime of Regret!

    Chapter 394: Tragedy, Despair, a Lifetime of Regret!

    One after the other, the banquet''s Sword Cultivators took their turns.

    The bounty from their encounter with the Cmity Bone wasn''t much to write home about, with their Sword Aura gains ranging from 20-100yers at best. For these children from the elite families of the Primordial Ruins, such trifle gains were hardly worth their notice. Still, they were thankful to the Primordial Son for sharing the luck and broadening their horizons, or at least they made a show of it.

    But with each one taking the stage, Song Bomei made a point to introduce them to Liu Yingying,ying it on thick. These young bloods, boasting top-tier Sword Souls, powerful Sword Auras, and superior Sword Rings, were born with silver spoons that could choke a dragon. Liu Yingying, listening in, seemed to be getting drawn into their world, her eyes sparkling with reverence and longing.

    "Song Bomei, your turn! Show the brothers your Sword Soul," called out Huyan Luo from the head seat, smiling and beckoning after about 40 had had their go.

    "With the Primordial Son''s favor, how could I refuse?" Song Bomei grinned, ncing over at Liu Yingying.

    She was tipsy, her cheeks flushed with drink, cupping her chin in her hands and squinting back at Song Bomei, all doe-eyed and smitten.

    "One more showstopper, and she''s surely mine," Song Bomei thought, striding confidently towards the Cmity Bone.

    The crowd watched, full of anticipation, setting the stage for Song Bomei''s moment.

    <em>HUM! </em>A Sword Soul materialized in Song Bomei''s handan ice-blue beauty that flowed like liquid, elegant and mesmerizing. Its emergence sent a chill through the room, frosting everyone with a thinyer of ice.

    "Ice River Sword Soul, Mid Yin grade, seven Sword Rings, 70,000yers of Sword Aura... Song Bomei is something else," Liu Yingying murmured, utterly captivated.

    "Yin grade? That''s the thirteenth grade," Yun Xiao noted, his eyes zing at the sight of the liquid-like, ice-blue Sword Soul.

    Just then, Song Bomei plunged the Ice River Sword Soul into the Cmity Bone. The bone reacted, conjuring a phantom shark that snapped at him, but with 70,000yers of Sword Aura at hismand, Song Bomei handled it with ease, a rxed smile ying on his lips.

    And then, his Sword Aura began to surge!

    The crowd watched and counted, their eyes widening with awe as the number ofyers climbed higher and higher.

    Eventually, many were left speechless.

    "Over a thousand!"

    That was far more than what the others had managed to draw.

    "Congrattions!" Huyan Luo, having <em>lost</em> over 1,000yers of Sword Aura, was far from stingy. Instead, he stood up and pped three times for Song Bomei.

    His lead prompted the other youths to join in with smiling praises.

    "Brother Song''s talent in the way of the sword is truly remarkable."

    Song Bomei modestly responded with a smile, "I''m merely offering what little I have. The real marvel here is the Primordial Son."

    "Indeed!"

    "The Primordial Son is favored by the Human Zenith Immortal; he''s destined for greatness in the Sword Dao."

    Amidst the des, Song Bomei returned to his seat and modestly said to Liu Yingying, "That was just a small effort on my part."

    "Master Song is too modest."

    After her reply, Liu Yingying couldn''t help but nce at Yun Xiao and make a mentalparison, shaking her head at the thought. Why did the capable remain humble, while the boastfulcked substance?

    She didn''t wish to borate further, hoping only that Lian Xi would see the truth for herselfthat all that glittered was not gold.

    As thest few Sword Cultivators took their turn, Yun Xiao knew it was time for the show to begin.

    He was eager to y his part.

    From the crowd, the Primordial Son approached the Cmity Bone with a smile, scanning the room to ask, "Are there any more Sword Cultivators present? If not, I''ll be taking the Cmity Bone back."

    "I am," Yun Xiao stood up.

    The crowd paused, their smiles fading into a mix of impatience and annoyance.

    Interrupting the flow was one thing, but to step forward now?

    "Brother Yun, aren''t you an Inscription Cultivator?" Song Bomei asked in surprise.

    "I''m a rare dual cultivator of both sword and sigil, possessing both a Sword Soul and a Life Sigil," Yun Xiao dered. Internally, he sneered. <em>Haven''t your elders been watching me from the shadows long enough to figure that out?</em>

    If they hadn''t pegged Yun Xiao as a Sword Cultivator with a <em>greedy </em>streak, they wouldn''t have gone to the trouble of setting such a deadly trap.

    "Sword and sigil dual cultivator?"

    That little revtion caused quite a stir among the crowd, earning Yun Xiao a smidgen of newfound respect.

    "Then, Brother Yun, please show us your Sword Soul," the Primordial Son said with a calm demeanor.

    <em>HUM! </em>Yun Xiao extended a finger, and from it sprang an azure Sword Soul, unadorned with Sword Rings and boasting just over 20,000yers of Sword Aura.

    Compared to the dazzling Sword Souls previously disyed, this azure de seemed rather in.

    "This Sword Soul..." Huyan Luo gave Yun Xiao a measured look and said seriously, "Brother Yun, your Sword Aurayers are on the low side, which might not withstand the bacsh from the Cmity Bone. It could be risky, so perhaps it''s best to refrain."

    "But I can''t just step back," Yun Xiao insisted, his eyes fixed on the Cmity Bone. "Didn''t the Primordial Son say everyone gets a chance? I''d like to give it a try!"

    Lian Xi bit her lip to suppress augh upon hearing this. She knew he was putting on a show, ying up his cunning and greed... much like his incessant haggling for more tiger rod wine.

    "Sigh!" Liu Yingying couldn''t help butugh in exasperation.

    How could someone be so shameless?

    "Aren''t you going to think it over?" Lian Xi couldn''t resist ying along.

    "Don''t worry about me," Yun Xiao assured her.

    Seeing this, Huyan Luo had no choice but to feign concern, "In that case, please proceed!"

    "Thank you, Primordial Son." Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled with eagerness as he stepped forward, no longer hiding his desire for the Cmity Bone.

    His face was a picture of insatiable greed, as if he was trying to swallow more than he could chew.

    "How could Lian Xi fall for such a vulgar charmer?"

    This question lingered in Liu Yingying''s mind, as well as on the faces of the other noble offspring.

    As Yun Xiao stood before the Cmity Bone, Huyan Luo and Song Bomei exchanged knowing smiles, a sh of cold intent passing between them. Hook, line, and sinker!

    In that moment, all eyes were on Yun Xiao!

    The atmosphere turned icy in an instant.

    "May the Three True Immortals bless me, let this Cmity Bone teach this greedy fool a harsh lesson," Liu Yingying silently prayed.

    No sooner had she finished her prayer than Yun Xiao extended his Sword Soul towards the Cmity Bone.

    The Primordial Son and the others watched, their pupils shrinking in surprise.

    They hadn''t expected Yun Xiao to halt his sword yet again...

    The crowd was momentarily stunned!

    Yun Xiao turned to the Primordial Son with a serious look, "Given that this is a gift from the Human Zenith Immortal to you, it would be quite embarrassing if I identally absorbed too much."

    The Primordial Son chuckled and gestured for him to proceed, "Please, don''t worry about it."

    "Then, I''m at ease."

    After delivering his line with utter sincerity, Yun Xiao nced back at the Cmity Bone, a sly smile ying at the corner of his mouth.

    With a delicate move, he finally plunged the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into the Cmity Bone!

    <em>CRACK! </em>A tremor passed through, but for a moment, both the Cmity Bone and the Sword Soul remained still.

    Everyone''s gaze was fixed on the half of the Sword Soul in his hand!

    "I''ve got a few hundred little critters burrowing into my Sword Soul, looks like they''re trying to nibble at my soul," Yun Xiao murmured to Blue Star, barely audible.

    "Soul-Eating Gu, quite rare, they feed on souls," Blue Star chuckled, "This kid really went all out to make your death look like an ''ident''."

    "It seems these Three True Immortals and their descendants are all masterful at ying with Gu," Yun Xiao thought with a coldugh.

    Even at only 13 years old, the Primordial Son was ruthless! He dared to bait Yun Xiao with the most precious gift of his life, aiming to send him to his doom!

    "Anyone else might have either avoided the trap or ended up soulless and dead, earning a notorious reputation for falling victim to such a scheme."

    Unfortunately for them, they had lured Yun Xiao onto their hook.

    He was like a vicious fish that could snap the fishing hook and drag the fisherman underwater!

    With a gentle twist of his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, he turned those hundreds of Soul-Eating Gu, that specialized in devouring human souls, into ck smoke.

    For Yun Xiao, the bacsh from the Cmity Bone was a non-issue.

    So, when his eyes suddenly sparkled with mischief, he knew it was time.

    Aside from Lian Xi, everyone was itching to see him make a fool of himself, to stumble into disaster!

    So, he had to act fast.

    "Absorb!" hemanded, having held back the Heaven Burial Sword Soul until this very moment, now unleashing its gaping maw.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    <em>BOOM!</em> The marrow of the Cmity Bone, like floodwaters breaching a dam, surged crazily towards the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    The bone trembled, conjuring the visage of a shark, mouth agape!

    "Bacsh!" the Primordial Son''s eyes flickered with a venomous light.

    "Hehe," Song Bomei smirked, fanning himself coolly, his expression icy.

    "This is going to be embarrassing..." Liu Yingying sighed, covering her head.

    But instead of Yun Xiao''s screams, they heard the Cmity Bone''s shrieks!

    Yes, that shark wasn''t biting at Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul; it was howling in agony, as if confronted with its worst nightmare.

    "What in the world?" Song Bomei stood up so fast he knocked over the table.

    "Ah...?" Liu Yingying, caught off bnce,nded on the floor with a thud, her dignity bruised.

    Their eyes bulged as they witnessed the Sword Aura on Yun Xiao''s de skyrocket!

    "We must be seeing things."

    They weren''t the only ones rubbing their eyes in disbelief.

    "This must be a joke, right...?"

    They were here to watch Yun Xiao''s downfall!

    The moment was fleeting.

    The once fierce Cmity Bone visibly dimmed, its ferocity fading before their eyes.

    Even the Primordial Son, who would need five years to absorb the Cmity Bone, watched in shock as it turned into a white, lusterless skeleton in a mere breath. It lost all its splendor, yellowed, and crumbled into bone dust, scattering on the ground with a whisper.

    Gone with the wind, without a trace left behind.

    And on that Sword Soul, countlessyers of Sword Aura converged into a vast azure sea, erupting in a piercing scream of sword cries that numbed everyone''s ears!

    Counting them was impossible in that moment. But if one were to give an estimate, it would be close to 300,000yers!

    Such a Sword Soul was no longer just a soul; it was a cataclysmic weapon...

    Everyone witnessed this scene!

    They watched the youth in white drain the Cmity Bone dry, then turn his focus to the sword in his hand, now brimming with 300,000yers of Sword Aura.

    "This can''t be happening."

    Their eyes rubbed raw in disbelief, their minds numbing.

    Because they couldn''t even begin toprehend what this meant for the Primordial Son Despair? Tragedy? Words failed to capture it.

    "Master Song, I think there''s something wrong with my eyes!" Liu Yingying stood up, tugging at Song Bomei''s sleeve with a nervous chuckle.

    "My eyes must be failing me too... Did you see the Cmity Bone vanish?" Song Bomei started with a helplessugh, then his body shook as he blurted out the rest.

    "Yes..." Liu Yingying stood stiff as a board, as if struck by lightning.

    Their exchange was overheard by many...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 395: Adorable Sidekick!

    Chapter 395: Adorable Sidekick!

    Their pupils shook violently.

    "How can this be?"

    Nobody could believe it. But the terrifying truth was right in front of them.

    "That was Primordial Son''s most treasured gift in his life, a symbol of his status and identity..."

    Just gone like that? This was more explosive than giving away your bride to a stranger on your wedding day! And the kicker? The Primordial Son himself handed it over with open arms...

    How was the Primordial Son feeling? Every eye trembled as they turned to him. His eyes were wider than bell ppers, streaked with scarlet veins, his mouth agape, each tooth quivering in its own direction.

    Even his throat was stretched wide, but not a sound could he make! Even his face, for a moment, cracked with lines. It was truly splitting apart! If the face cracked, the heart must have shattered too.

    Anyone could see how much that Cmity Bone meant to him.

    What''s worse, it was a gift from the Human Zenith Immortal, meant to be shared, and now it was just sucked away... Wasn''t this the biggest joke?

    Not only did he lose the most precious treasure of his life, but he was also set to be aughingstock in history!

    The Primordial Son red at Yun Xiao, breathing heavily, his throat still bulging, smoke billowing out, yet not a word could he utter.

    The whole banquet hall was as silent as the grave.

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao, with a flick of his wrist, raised his azure Sword Soul before the Primordial Son, saying, "My apologies, Primordial Son. I had no idea this treasure was so fragile. What''s to be done now? Maybe the Human Zenith Immortal might grace you with another?"

    At that, the Primordial Son spat out a mouthful of ck blood, nearly sttering Yun Xiao.

    "Quick, fetch an immortal doctor!" Yun Xiao eximed in shock.

    Hearing this, the Primordial Son lost itpletely. Shoving aside those supporting him, his bloodshot eyes zeroed in on Yun Xiao.

    With a swift motion, he unsheathed his sword, charging at Yun Xiao with murderous intent. His Sword Soul shimmered in gold and ck, adorned with seven Sword Rings and enveloped in over 80,000yers of Sword Aura. This Celestial Sword Soul was rumored to be of the Yang grade, a Sword Soul Sovereign!

    "Thirteen and already in the Genesis Spirit Realm?" Yun Xiao''s eyes twinkled with a mischievous light. "Can''t take a joke, can we?"

    It started as a game of shadows, but when that failed, things turned deadly serious.

    "Thanks to your generous gift, I''ve advanced to the Establishment Heaven Sanctuary Realm," Yun Xiao quipped.

    What a banquet it turned out to be! Fine wine, breaking through in cultivation, power leveling his Sword Aura, and driving a rival to spew blood¡ªlife couldn''t be sweeter.

    "Finish him!" The cold gaze of the descendants from the various immortal families filled the room.

    "A mere Heaven Sanctuary Realm trash, without even a Genesis Spirit... Such a pity for the treasure!" Song Bomei''s eyes shed with a mix of coldness and pain.

    "Lian Xi..." Liu Yingying''s face paled with fear, calling out in desperation. She had no fondness for Yun Xiao, but found the idea of killing under these circumstances distasteful.

    As the Primordial Son made his move, a whirlwind of thoughts raced through everyone''s minds. But his strike, swift as lightning, was aimed straight at Yun Xiao.

    "Die!" Huyan Luo''s face twisted with malice, abandoning all pretense of dignity.

    Yet, facing him, Yun Xiao''s eyes danced with scorn.

    <em>KLANG! </em>In an instant, Yun Xiao''s 300,000yer Sword Aura transformed into a Palm Sword. Standing his ground, he countered with a dragon-like thrust, his de meeting the Primordial Son''s Celestial Sword Soul head-on.

    With a sh that could pierce ears, the moment froze.

    "AGH!" Huyan Luo''s face twisted in agony as his sword cracked under the pressure.

    Yun Xiao, with a forceful shove, sent Huyan Luo to his knees, the impact so fierce it drew blood from his legs.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    And Yun Xiao wasn''t done; he pressed his sword down, right onto Huyan Luo''s head, his Sword Aura shredding hair and marking the scalp with lines of pain.

    The silence that followed was deafening.

    Just as Huyan Luo made his move, and the scions from the various immortal families of the Primordial Ruins thought this would save his face, Yun Xiao turned the tables, stunning everyone with a single stroke.

    "Heaven Sanctuary Realm besting a Genesis Spirit Realm prodigy with one sword!" Liu Yingying''s lips parted in shock, nearly losing her bnce.

    Not just her, but Song Bomei and others felt a chill run down their spine.

    Even Lian Xi was taken aback, having only dreamed of such prowess. This was a pleasant surprise to her.

    And there stood Huyan Luo, blood dripping, his long-awaited birthday banquet turned into a nightmare. He lost his treasure and was brought to his knees before a stranger, all under watchful eyes.

    But then, shadows loomed behind Huyan Luo, a group of formidable figures shrouded in darkness ready to stand by him.

    At the same time, allies appeared behind Lian Xi, ready for a standoff, the very reason Huyan Luo had held back his recklessness.

    No words were exchanged, yet the air crackled with hostility.

    "Yun Xiao!" Song Bomei stepped forward, his Ice River Sword Soul in hand, his voice cold as ice, "Release the Primordial Son now, and you might just have a way out!"

    At 17, his talent might not have matched that of Huyan Luo, but he''d long surpassed the Genesis Spirit Realm in strength, naturally outmatching Huyan Luo and piling on the pressure for Yun Xiao.

    His stepping in seemed to say, "Let the youngsters hash it out."

    "A way out?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow at Song Bomei, his tone even, "Pray tell, what wrong have I done? Wasn''t I invited by the Primordial Son to partake in the treasure? We agreed no hard feelings, so why the attempt on my life?"

    "You knew full well you could snatch it away, this was deliberate theft!" Song Bomei used, his voice frosty.

    "Was it now?" Yun Xiao''s smile didn''t waver as he presented his palm, revealing some bug shells. "Then, might I inquire about the Soul-Eating Gu attached to the Cmity Bone marrow I absorbed? A charming little gift with a lethal touch?"

    The usation struck Huyan Luo and Song Bomei like lightning, leaving the faces of the young scions twisted in bizarre expressions, only now grasping the Primordial Son''s intentions.

    What floored them more was Yun Xiao''s insight, turning their scheme on its head.

    "He who seeks to harm others often harms himself," Yun Xiao stated, sending Huyan Luo flying with a kick. "I wonder, will the Mysterious Sword Manor share in the shame once this tale spreads?"

    With that, he wrapped an arm around Lian Xi and walked away, leaving a trail of venomous stares behind.

    "Wait for me!" Liu Yingying followed in a daze, her mind a nk te.

    The powerhouses of the Primordial Academy exchanged looks, a hint of surprise in their eyes before they vanished into the night.

    Outside, Lian Xi''s deep gaze found Yun Xiao. "Aren''t you afraid of dying?"

    "Your master said, standing by your side, even doing nothing, could be deadly," Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    "And so?"

    "I decided to stir up the storm myself, make myself the center of it," he dered.

    "What about me?" Lian Xi pouted.

    "You?" Yun Xiao patted her waist lightly. "You can be my adorable little sidekick."

 Chapter 396: I Could Use a Dog Anyway

    Chapter 396: I Could Use a Dog Anyway

    In the eerie quiet of the Mysterious Sword Manor, the young guests, wise enough to read the room, bowed their heads and made their exit.

    Soon, only Song Bomei and Huyan Luo remained, thetter''s face a mix of grief and rage, his once white eyes now threaded with blood, almost entirely crimson.

    "I want this man to live a long, cursed life!" Huyan Luo growled, his voiceced with a venomous chill, his teeth clenched in fury.

    "To live long, yet wish for death every single day," Song Bomeipleted the thought, a grim assurance in his tone. "Primordial Son, worry not. He''s but a pawn in the grand game, doomed from the start."

    With a deep breath, Huyan Luo tried to find his calm, to still the storm within.

    But no amount of deep breathing could quell the rage that seized him. He remembered Yun Xiao''s innocent face as he absorbed the Cmity Bone, and how Yun Xiao forced him to his knees with a single sword strike. The humiliation seeped into his very bones.

    "Primordial Son, your father is summoning you," a voice from the shadows spoke. It was a figure d in ck, much like the many silent guardians that nked both Huyan Luo and Lian Xi.

    These individuals rarely interfered, but were pivotal in moments of deadly conflict. If only the Primordial Ruins weren''t so fraught with chaos, such vignt protection would be unnecessary!

    With a huff, Huyan Luo turned, striding deeper into the hall, Song Bomei following suit, his face taut with tension.

    Silence loomed heavily as they advanced until a daunting Sword Hall, bristling with an ominous aura, came into view. They entered, heads bowed in reverence.

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    "Greetings to the Mysterious Sword Manor Master," Song Bomei intoned with respect.

    Before them, a figure in ck robes sat, cradling a steaming cup of tea, savoring its warmth. Beside this imposing figure stood a striking girl, her skin as pale as snow, d in ck armor that revealed her slender waist and long legs, her hair tied back, her gaze sharp yet stunningly beautiful.

    Like Huyan Luo, her eyes were a pure, eerie white, adding an otherworldly charm to her fierce beauty.

    When Song Bomei saw her there too, his nerves wound tighter, and in an uneasy voice, he greeted, "Miss Pin, good day."

    "Kneel," the man in the ck robe ordered casually as he sipped his hot tea.

    "Yes, sir." Sweat beaded on Huyan Luo''s forehead as he and Song Bomei knelt together, their heads bowed low, not daring to make a sound.

    "Child, cut back on the booze when you''re with the troops. Tea''s better," the Manor Master advised with a smile. "This top-notch Dragon Tongue Tea, of the Upper Yin grade, is perfect for keeping you fit. We swordsmen need our strength."

    "No thanks, too nd for my taste," Huyan Pin shot back with a nce.

    The old man, once a heavy drinker, was now suddenly a tea aficionado, what gives?

    "Tiger Rod Wine packs a punch, pity we''ve none left!" The Manor Master sighed.

    "Father, I''ve erred!" Huyan Luo, hearing this, bowed his head in trembling admission.

    "And what, pray tell, is your sin?" the Manor Master asked with a sly grin.

    Under the stern gaze, his smile seemed to make the air chillier.

    "I... I underestimated my opponent, lost a treasure of a lifetime, became aughingstock, and tarnished our family''s and your reputation!"

    "You''re mistaken," the Manor Master replied softly after a sip of tea.

    "Where did I go wrong?" Huyan Luo looked up, puzzled.

    "You''re not to me. Your strategy today wasn''t wed; you were just unlucky. Besides the direct descendants of the Three True Immortals, hardly anyone can identify the Soul-Eating Gu. You just happened to encounter one. And someone who could instantly absorb the Cmity Bone? I''ve never even heard of such a person," the Manor Master exined.

    Huyan Luo was taken aback.

    He was braced for a harsh reprimand.

    "Regardless, the fact that I''ve disgraced our house stands," Huyan Luo inhaled deeply, his gaze burning with resolve as he looked up at the Manor Master. "Father, I''ll learn from this. If there''s a next time, I''ll ensure a swift, decisive strike, no mistakes."

    "No need. You can''t beat him. Rest," the Manor Master cut in.

    "Father!"

    "Rest, I said. Learn from this, dedicate yourself to the sword. There''s still a chance for redemption," the Manor Master''s voice grew colder, more authoritative.

    "Yes, sir."

    Though reluctant, Huyan Luo had no choice but to agree.

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    After another sip of tea, the Manor Master turned to the tall girl in ck armor beside him. "Pin, I want you to thoroughly investigate this person, including the mysteries of his dual cultivation of sword and sigil. I want every detail."

    Huyan Pin, from her lofty perch, cast a cold nce at her brother, Huyan Luo.

    "Leave us," the Manor Mastermanded.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Yes..." Huyan Luo, knowing better than to argue, bowed along with Song Bomei and made their exit.

    "Father," Huyan Pin paused before leaving, turning back with a serious tone, "Is there any change to the Tri-Immortal Birth n?"

    "No change," the master replied.

    "But what if she, hand in hand with him, remains unharmed... What if she''s not the Child of Disaster we think she is?" Huyan Pin probed, her eyes a cool abyss.

    "She must be," the Manor Master stated with conviction, causing Huyan Pin to pause.

    "Understood!" With a nod, Huyan Pin left the Sword Hall.

    Outside, she found Huyan Luo and Song Bomei still lingering.

    "Big Sister..." Huyan Luo began, an awkward smile on his face.

    "Scram! You''re an embarrassment!" Huyan Pin shot him a disdainful look.

    Huyan Luo''s jaw clenched, anger reigniting within him, but he stood his ground. Song Bomei, on the other hand, stepped forward, positioning himself behind Huyan Pin.

    "What are you doing following me?" Huyan Pin''s icy gaze fell on him.

    "To assist Miss Pin," Song Bomei replied.

    Huyan Pin rolled her eyes and said dismissively, "Fine, follow then. I could use a dog anyway."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Nine Hells, just outside the Immortal Asylum, nestled in a high mountain crevice, a gentle breeze stirred a swirling mist of blood. This mist, as if charmed, morphed into a striking woman with long, shapely legs, dragon horns atop her head, waterfall-like hair, and a waist as sinuous as a serpent''s.

    Enveloped by the blood mist, her allure and beauty intensified, blooming like a rose in the mundane world.

    After a moment of collecting herself, she opened her dark red eyes and gazed toward the Immortal Asylum. There, three divine steles now fully enshrouded the Immortal Asylum, while countless tri-colored butterflies added a touch of the fantastical to the scene.

    "Where have all the people gone?" a voice echoed from her heart.

    "I wouldn''t know," the War Princess pouted.

    "Keep watching," the heartmanded.

    "Watch what? There''s nothing to see," the War Princess retorted.

    Yun Xiao paid her no mind.

    Receiving no reply, the War Princess mused, "And what might you be doing on that ship?"

    "Busy saving the world," Yun Xiao hurriedly replied.

    "You better be," the War Princess muttered under her breath.

    "Nonsense," Yun Xiao shot back.

    "Or perhaps unraveling something else entirely..." the War Princess pondered, trusting her woman''s intuition that something was amiss.

    "Will you ever quit?" Yun Xiao paused, "If you''ve got time to spare, go tell the Sword Warden and the others they don''t need to guard the Immortal Asylum anymore. Better they secure the Cmity Seal Purgatory and the Rising Sun Inferno first, stabilize themon welfare."

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    With the Immortal Asylum and the Nian out of the equation, the strife within the Nine Hells was essentially over.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Or perhaps unraveling something else entirely..." the War Princess pondered, trusting her woman''s intuition that something was amiss.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 397: You Better Not Do That!

    Chapter 397: You Better Not Do That!

    "Got it!" The War Princess nodded.

    Just a stone''s throw behind, the likes of the Sword Warden, the Netherworld Emperor, and the Siren Empress dared not depart.

    "The Three True Immortals from the Primordial Ruins are keeping the Nian in check. We should be fine now," the War Princess dered. "Yun Xiao has ordered everyone to head back and maintain stability."

    "Did Yun Xiao say that?" Mu Dalong was still around, having been caught off guard by Yun Xiao''s hasty departure. Worry still knotted her stomach.

    "Yes," the War Princess affirmed with a nod.

    "Is he safe, then?" Mu Dalong inquired.

    "He''s tough as nails, what could possibly go wrong..." the War Princess cursed Yun Xiao under her breath for not sparing even the aunts, but outwardly reassured, "Don''t worry."

    "Right," Mu Dalong nodded, falling silent for a moment before finally asking, "So, will hee back?"

    "Of course, he will!" the War Princess eximed.

    She hadn''t even left herself!

    Mu Dalong remembered Yun Xiao''s words... The Nine Hells was his home, inseparable from him, and with that thought, she found peace.

    They dispersed one after the other.

    "Say, didn''t Yun Xiao leave? How can you ry his message?" the Netherworld Emperor whispered to his daughter before leaving.

    The War Princess shot him a re, toozy to respond.

    "Cough, cough!" The Netherworld Emperor could only leave in embarrassment.

    Now, she was the only one left in the open near the Immortal Asylum.

    But there was still one more, hidden in the shadows. A barefoot girl! d in tattered robes, she sat cross-legged on a branch, her eyes empty, as if frozen in time.

    "Pale Revenant?" the War Princess called out to her.

    Pale Revenant looked up at her.

    "Don''t worry," the War Princess reassured. "He said once he''s settled in the Primordial Ruins, he''ll take us up there to mingle."

    Pale Revenant nodded, whispering, "Thank you."

    "Just can''t figure out what those three immortals are up to..." The War Princess gazed at the butterfly formation, her worries deepening.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Immortal Asylum, where the crack once teemed with life, it nowy deserted. As the three divine steles descended, the Nian, sensing a threat, retreated back into its prison. The Immortal Asylum, it seemed, had be its protector.

    In the dark depths, a beast without skin slithered, its dull yellow eyes fixating on the faint light at the crack, filled with depth. Silver butterflies clung to the edge of the crack, fluttering their wings in a scene that bordered on the eerie.

    Suddenly, a figure peeked in, his face expressionless, yet bizarrely, his belly sported a grin, as if mocking the Nian.

    "The New Year''s almost here," he taunted, "Sure you don''t want to join the revelry up top? Everyone would love to have you." His voice, unsettling to the core, sent shivers down one''s spine.

    Unable to contain its annoyance, the Nian spat out in disdain, "Beat it, fool!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Meanwhile, back at the Primordial Academy, under the shadow of the Divine Dawn Pavilion, Yun Xiao, Lian Xi, and Liu Yingying made their way back in silence. Their protectors melted into the shadows as they approached.

    Liu Yingying, trailing behind, struggled with her emotions at the sight of the couple ahead. In a secluded spot, unable to hold back any longer, she called out, "Yun Xiao!"

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi turned, their expressions in unison, a mirror of marital harmony, which only deepened Liu Yingying''s despair, her eyes brimming with tears.

    "What''s the matter, Yingying?" Lian Xi inquired.

    "I just... I need to ask him something," Liu Yingying managed, her gaze fixed on Yun Xiao.

    "Shoot," Yun Xiao prompted.

    "Do you find pleasure in toying with others?" Liu Yingying asked, biting her lip.

    "Making a mockery? Is that what I did?" Yun Xiao pondered aloud.

    "You could absorb the Genesis Spirit Essence and im the Cmity Bone, yet you feigned ignorance, isn''t that making fools out of others? And then, you smack them right in the face. Do you find amusement in this? Basking in self-glory now, aren''t you?" Liu Yingying used.

    "If that''s what you call making a mockery, then yes, I confess, I do take a certain pleasure in it," Yun Xiao admitted, his gazending on her. "But how does that concern you? You''re Lian Xi''s dear sister; you ought to be happy for us."

    "You..." Liu Yingying was at a loss for words, fuming.

    "I know why you''re upset; like everyone else, you wanted to see me fail," Yun Xiao stated, pulling Lian Xi closer. "That''s not right! So, let me give you a piece of advice: think about who truly matters to you. Trust her, don''t make her life difficult or sad, got it?"

    Liu Yingying clenched her fists, her chest heaving with emotion.

    After a long moment, when she finally looked at Lian Xi, her heart softened, and she conceded, "Alright, I''ll admit, you''ve got some skills, and you''re pretty sly... But Lian Xi, she''s on a whole other level of nobilitypared to you. You''re not worthy of her with your current antics. If you truly care for her, please, show her the respect she deserves, and don''t you dare..."

    "Don''t dare what?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    "Don''t do that!"

    With those words, Liu Yingying, a mix of embarrassment and anger, turned and fled.

    Yun Xiao was left speechless.

    She sure had a vivid imagination!

    Before he could even respond, Liu Yingying was back.

    "Now what?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Just a heads-up, you''ve made some formidable enemies, the Mysterious Sword Manor and the entire lineage of the Human Zenith Immortal mighte after you. You better be smart about this and not drag Lian Xi into your mess!" Liu Yingying warned earnestly.

    "Got it, now off you go." Yun Xiao dismissed her as if she''d just let off steam, and with Lian Xi by his side, he headed towards the Divine Dawn Pavilion.

    "Lian Xi, you should get some rest," he suggested.

    Lian Xi, smiling at their squabble, bid Liu Yingying goodnight. Deep down, she could tell Liu Yingying had been swayed by Yun Xiao, despite her tough exterior. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have pleaded with Yun Xiao not to do <em>that</em>!

    What was once an outright <em>ban</em> had turned into a <em>request</em>.

    Tonight, Liu Yingying found herself struck by a sudden revtion, standing alone outside, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts, struggling to grasp the turn of events.

    She thought of Song Bomei.

    "Sigh, I thought leveraging my connection with Lian Xi would secure a favorable oue, but now I see, men are nothing but yboys, everyst one of them!"

    All that effort spent acting youthful and amiable, wasted... She might as well have spent the day in meditation.

    Lifting her gaze to the Divine Dawn Pavilion, Liu Yingying pondered over Yun Xiao''s demeanor throughout the day.

    His smile was ever serene.

    Such a smile, such a presence, if one could set aside their biases, was indeed unforgettable.

    "Sigh, with looks like his, not just Lian Xi, but even a three-hundred-year-old granny would be stirred... I have to admit." Her emotions were in turmoil, undergoing a seismic shift. In the end, she mused, "With a face like that, even if Lian Xi''s just in it for the eye candy, it''s still worth it."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Divine Dawn Pavilion, Yun Xiao found himself in a pavilion with an ancient zither.

    "Do you y?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile, turning to Lian Xi.

    "Not a bit!" Lian Xi chuckled sheepishly, her hands sped behind her. "I''m only good with hammers and axes."

    "Then why keep a zither here?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "It''s Yingying''s," Lian Xi paused, "Despite her constant teasing, to others, she''s a virtuoso in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, a true Immortal fairy."

    "Heh..." Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh.

    "Interested in my big sis and best friend, huh? That''d be quite the thrill," Lian Xi teased in a whisper, pouting.

    "You don''t say." Yun Xiao was taken aback. "Haha!"

    Her teasing sent Yun Xiao into a fit ofughter, bending over with mirth, her yful nature shining through her bright, tigerish teeth.

    "Naughty," Yun Xiao chided, casting her a nce before settling down before the zither.

    "Do you know how?" Lian Xi inquired, curiosity lighting up her eyes.

    "Me? I''m self-taught," Yun Xiao boasted with a casual shrug. His fingers danced across the strings, and after a moment''s contemtion, a melodious tune filled the air.

    "That''s <em>Dream Falling Through the Mortal World</em>. You y it even better than Yingying," Lian Xi marveled.

    She recognized the piece because the score was right there beside them, and Yun Xiao was ying it note for note.

    With a soft chuckle, Yun Xiao kept the music flowing. The gentle breeze, his white robe fluttering, turned the moment into a scene straight out of a painting.

    "Your fingers are quite the sight," Lian Xi said, propping her chin in her hands, her eyes wide with fascination as she watched, spellbound.

    No sooner had she spoken than the melody shifted, bing fierce and tumultuous, evoking images of shing swords and charging steeds on the battlefield.

    "These are the hands of a killer," Yun Xiao murmured, his tone light yet carrying an undercurrent of solemnity.

    Lian Xi paused, taken aback.

    The gap between their strengths was vast, with her usually ying the protector. Yet, why did it often feel like they were equals, or that she was even overshadowed by his presence?

    Silence fell as Yun Xiao concluded the piece. The quiet of the courtyard enveloped them.

    He stood and asked, "So, we''re enrolling in the Primordial Academy tomorrow?"

    "Right. You have to pass the entrance exam to officially be a member of the Academy," Lian Xi confirmed with a nod.

    "And what''s the point?" Yun Xiao queried.

    "Being a disciple of the Primordial Academy grants you the right to openly learn its swordsmanship and daoist spells, not to mention ess to the resources of the Immortal Dao," Lian Xi exined.

    Yun Xiao''s thoughts weren''t far off the mark.

    So, he asked, "How are the resources doled out?"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Disciples are ranked across ten levels. The higher your level, the greater your bounty," Lian Xi exined.

    "And where do you stand?"

    "At the very top, the tenth level," Lian Xi boasted, hands on her hips, "And I''m the only one, freshly minted too."

    "Is that ''cause you tackled the eighth floor of the Primordial Pagoda?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "Exactly," Lian Xi paused, "Not every disciple who takes on the eighth floor makes it to the tenth level, but cracking it at 14? That''s top tier."

    Yun Xiao got the picture.

    In essence, disciple rankings hinged on two things¡ªage and prowess in the Primordial Pagoda. The younger, the better for the former, and the higher, the better for thetter.

    At 16, Yun Xiao would need to aim even higher to match Lian Xi''s standing.

    "The Academy''s backing makes things smoother, helps you rise."

    Hence, enrollment tomorrow was pivotal.

    "With the might you showed defeating Huyan Luo, getting in should be a breeze, merely a formality," Lian Xi said with a light chuckle.

    "Suppose so."

    Breaking through five stages in a single day, Yun Xiao was already a cut above at the Academy.

    "Then let me congratte you in advance, ''Level 1 Gui Disciple''," Lian Xi teased with a wink.

    "Level 1 Gui disciple? So, the ten disciple levels are named after the Heavenly Stems?" Yun Xiao rified.

    "Right. They go from Jia, Yi, Bing, Ding, all the way to Xin, Ren, and Gui," Lian Xi listed.

    "Primordial, Heavenly Stems... It''s all cosmically aligned, quite profound," Yun Xiao mused.

    Looking down at Lian Xi, he couldn''t help but chuckle, "So, you''re the esteemed Level 10 Jia disciple then."

    Lian Xi pinched his arm in mock frustration, "And here I am, at your mercy, a mere Level 1 Gui junior..."

 Chapter 398: Nascent Genesis Spirit

    Chapter 398: Nascent Genesis Spirit

    Late into the night, under the veiled moon, the silver light draped the floating divine ark, turning this mobile sanctuary into a dreamlike realm. If there were folks still wandering the streets, their faces seemed dusted with silver, their content smiles lending an eerie charm to the scene.

    The rapid beat of Huyan Pin''s boots on the cobblestone echoed like a racing heart. Leading the way, her figure swayed, the sh of armor against skin, highlighted by the moon''s silver kiss, painted a picture of wild beauty.

    Trailing behind, Song Bomei stole nces at the sway of her waist, the night cool but his throat parched.

    Soon, they neared the gates of the Primordial Academy. Huyan Pin veered into a courtyard aze with light and life. She took a seat, legs crossed, on a stone bench and shot Song Bomei a look, "Fetch Song Ze."

    "Yes," Song Bomei nodded, disappearing into the depths of the courtyard.

    He returned with a middle-aged man in blue, who bowed deeply, "Song Ze pays respects to Miss Pin."

    "Are you overseeing tomorrow''s examination?" Huyan Pin''s frosty demeanor carried an air of iron-d authority.

    "Just leading the team, the scoring is up to others," Song Ze replied with a respectful smile.

    "That''ll do," Huyan Pin said, her gaze briefly meeting Song Bomei''s.

    "Rest assured, Miss Pin, Song Ze has been a trusted figure in Qingchuan Prefecture since childhood," Song Bomei hurriedly added.

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    "Good."

    Despite her youth, Huyan Pinmanded respect from Song Ze, a teacher at the Primordial Academy, a testament to her esteemed status.

    "Is everyone here for tomorrow''s exam, aside from thedy apanying Lian Xi?" Huyan Pin looked towards the livelier parts of the estate, where the light shone bright and the sounds of discussion and practice filled the air.

    "Miss Pin," Song Ze reported with a gravity that belied the moonlit serenity, "we''ve gathered about 130 souls here. Ny hail from the Primordial Ruins, while 40 have been unearthed from the lower worlds, each a record-breaking prodigy in their own right."

    Huyan Pin, taken aback by the influx of new blood from the lower worlds, raised an eyebrow. "So many?" she mused, a hint of surprise in her tone.

    "Indeed," Song Ze nodded, "the numbers are swelling."

    "It''s the decline of the Primordial Ruins, isn''t it?" Huyan Pin chuckled, the sound carrying a weight that seemed to mock the situation.

    "The me lies with the Martial Emperor n. The Five Decays have cost us dearly," Song Zemented, a note of bitterness in his voice.

    Song Bomei scoffed, "Stepping aboard this divine ark from the lower worlds, they rise to the heavens in one leap, basking in newfound glory, these <em>neers</em> must be thrilled." His words dripped with the disdain of a local for the neers.

    "The <em>fresh meat</em>," Huyan Pin remarked coolly, "are snatching what was once ours."

    Song Ze, puzzled by their tone, offered a weak smile. "But the Three True Immortals do support the Academy''s initiative to infuse new blood from the lower worlds..."

    "Was that in question?" Huyan Pin''s eyebrow arched higher.

    Song Ze paled, bowing deeply, "My mistake."

    Song Bomei pped him on the shoulder. "Ease up. Tonight, Miss Pin has a special task for you."

    "I am at yourmand," Song Ze pledged, his seriousness undiminished.

    Huyan Pin, with a sly smile, produced a transparent bottle, half-filled with clear water. "What do you see here?" she teased, her eyes narrowing with a dangerous allure.

    "Water?" Song Ze ventured, uncertain.

    "And what''s in the water?" Huyan Pin pressed.

    Peering closer, Song Ze scratched his head, chuckling sheepishly, "I can''t tell, Miss Pian. It seems there''s nothing in the water. Please enlighten me."

    "Not seeing is to be expected," Huyan Pin said, swirling the bottle with a chilling smile. "This water teems with Life Burning Gu."

    "Life Burning Gu?" Song Ze recoiled, his face tightening and eyes flickering with apprehension.

    "Yes, invisible to the naked eye but immensely potent. A perfect instrument for a proxy kill," Huyan Pin whispered, her voice as cold as the moonlight.

    "Sure as the moon is bright, those critters were too small to see," Song Ze mused, eyeing Huyan Pin with a mix of awe and trepidation. "What''s the y?"

    "Just slip it into their drinks. These 130 geniuses won''t know what hit them," Huyan Pin said with a casual wave, as if discussing the weather.

    "Every single one?" Song Ze''s voice quivered just a tad at the thought.

    "Everyst one," she confirmed, her tone final.

    Song Ze pursed his lips, ncing between Huyan Pin and Song Bomei. "So,e tomorrow, you''ll use the Mother Gu on them, and like fire to kindling, they''ll ze up in a frenzy, mighty and wild, only to be sent off to snuff out a life?"

    "You''ve got a sharp mind," Huyan Pinplimented, lounging back with a confidence that made the moon seem dim. "But without proof, it''s just hearsay. And with them all dead, who''s to argue?"

    "I get it," Song Ze said, taking a deep breath. "Avenging your brother, I can respect that."

    Huyan Pin shot him a nce. "So, Huyan Luo''s little debacle has already spread?"

    Song Ze offered a sheepish grin, caught in the gaze of both Huyan Pin and Song Bomei. "Word travels fast."

    "It''s no matter," Huyan Pin shrugged, unfazed. "Even if Lian Xi sniffs out my hand in her lover''s downfall, without proof, it''s all just wind. My brother likes to y with his food; I prefer a clean cut. The best way to handle a threat is to strike it down hard and fast, then stab it again for good measure."

    "A shame about the Cmity Bone," Song Bomei gritted his teeth.

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    "You detest him, don''t you?" Huyan Pin eyed Song Bomei, a smirk ying on her lips.

    "With all my heart," he confessed.

    "Good. Then you''ll handle the Mother Gu tomorrow."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the heart of the Primordial Academy, within the Divine Dawn Pavilion,y a spherical meditation chamber, nestled firmly on the ground, a picture of stability.

    Yet, at this moment, it trembled violently, leaves cascading from above.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <em>BOOM! </em>The chamber, as sturdy as steel, vibrated rhythmically, faint gasps of exhaustion seeping through.

    "I can''t... I''m too tired," a weary voice sighed from within.

    "Keep going!"

    "Alright then..." Lian Xi blinked her eyes, looking pitiful as she bit her lip. Then, she picked up a battle-axe crackling with thunder and a war hammer engulfed in mes from the ground. With a hammer in one hand and an axe in the other, she continued to forge her physique with relentless determination.

    Her method, the Primordial Martial Dao of physical cultivation, wasn''t like the demon''s method of body refinement. In truth, it was more akin to a technique that infused the physique with the essence of the dao, channeling the power of the dao through the burst of physical strength. This technique demanded an exceptional physical aptitude, typically only found in those with a Seed of Creation.

    Yun Xiao watched from the sidelines, analyzing her every move. His purpose was to decipher the essence of what martial cultivation truly entailed.

    "So, I could do this too!" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled with excitement as he moved his body slightly, "With the Prison Warden''s Life Sigil bolstering my physique, my martial cultivation could surpass that of an ordinary practitioner."

    "Not bad for a physical fitness regimen," Blue Starmented. "With a higher quality of physical essence, even without using the Divine Destion Physique, your closebat sword skills would benefit."

    "Then I''ll need to reim the Seed of Creation for physical talent from the human Martial Cultivators," Yun Xiao nodded in agreement.

    This wasn''t a challenge for him. Scanning the vast expanse of the Primordial Ruins, every Martial Cultivator possessed, to varying degrees, the Seed of Creation within their constitution, including those from the Sky Source Ruins.

    While Yun Xiao was preupied with observing Lian Xi, Blue Star produced quite a few Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    "You''re not watching my hammer and axe performance anymore?" Lian Xi approached, panting and drenched in sweat, looking utterly adorable.

    "Take a break," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "Okay! Now it''s my turn to watch you cultivate." She smiled innocently, tossing the hammer and axe aside with a ng, then sweetly watched Yun Xiao with her cheeks propped in her hands.

    Yun Xiao, with a calm mind and spirit, sat cross-legged and entered a state of cultivation.

    "It''s about time." Thanks to the generous supply of Genesis Spirit Essence from the Primordial Son, the mural of the Heaven Sanctuary within Yun Xiao''s Dantian was now resplendent, resembling a vivid tapestry of the mortal world.

    Beneath the expanse of the mural, whether it was the pristine Worldly Dao Heart or his primordial sacred power spinning like nine fierce suns, it seemed they had both reached their zenith.

    "Attain the Heaven Sanctuary, birth the Genesis Spirit!"

    Here, <em>attain</em> meant reaching the zenith.

    With the Heaven Sanctuary muralplete, the Genesis Spirit was born anew.

    Yun Xiao''s cultivation journey had been a force of nature, breaking through obstacles with ease. At this moment, struck by an epiphany, he found the path to the Genesis Spirit Realm less daunting than expected.

    As he settled into a tranquil state, radiant light from the Heaven Sanctuary converged, focusing above the Worldly Dao Heart.

    A hum filled the air! From the white Worldly Dao Heart, a mist arose, mingling with the light from the Heaven Sanctuary mural.

    Their union was like the harmonious blend of Yin and Yang, perfectly natural.

    Soon, the mist and the light merged into one, transforming into a miniature figure seated atop the Worldly Dao Heart.

    "Good heavens," Yun Xiao gasped in surprise.

    The figure formed from the mist and light was none other than his own likeness. Not the Creator Immortal! Instead, it resembled the mortal Emperor vanquished by Ye Guying, a look not quite remarkable.

    In the grand scheme of the Primordial Ruins, such an appearance was utterly mundane, barely standing out from amoner.

    "In the Genesis Spirit Realm, the nascent Genesis Spirit is born, seated upon the Dao Heart, where soul and dao unite, safeguarding the sanctity of one''s essence and pushing the limits of cultivation..."

    This was the essence and foundation of the Genesis Spirit Realm.

    "So it seems, the nascent Genesis Spirit represents one''s true self..."

    Gazing at his past self, now part of his spiritual journey, Yun Xiao found himself at a loss for words. His heart was a tumult of emotions.

    Between the ordinary and the divine, the mortal and the Creator Immortal,y merely a shell.

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    "What is real, and what is an illusion?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    The figure formed from the mist and light was none other than his own likeness. Not the Creator Immortal! Instead, it resembled the mortal Emperor vanquished by Ye Guying, a look not quite remarkable. </blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 399: Human Zenith Sword Immortal, Eight Sword Rings Reaching the Heavens!

    Chapter 399: Human Zenith Sword Immortal, Eight Sword Rings Reaching the Heavens!

    Yun Xiao had grown ustomed to steamrolling his way across all corners with the talents of the Creator Immortal. But when his fledgling Genesis Spirit revealed its true form, an inexplicable chill pierced his heart, plunging him into a silence as deep as death. The newly formed Genesis Spirit, equally bewildered, looked around as if the wonders within his Dantian had nothing to do with it, standing alone amidst the divine.

    Then, a warmth began to seep from beneath his feet. The Genesis Spirit looked down to find the source of this warmth¡ªthe Worldly Dao heart. This heart, aze with fervor, encapsted all that belonged to Yun Xiao¡ªthe boiling blood of themon folk, the indignant souls unwilling to concede, the profound empathy of the downtrodden.

    The Genesis Spirit and the Worldly Dao Heartplemented each other; the former became its soul, while thetter its foundation and source of warmth.

    "Interesting, very interesting," Yun Xiao mused. This peculiar sensation steadied his heart after the initial shock, his gaze hardening with resolve.

    The Genesis Spirit, like an inner eye within him, sat calmly atop the Worldly Dao Heart, surveying the unfamiliar and tumultuous surroundings with a tranquil heart.

    "What''s with the shock? Got a problem with your spirit?" Blue Star popped out to ask.

    "It''s nothing," Yun Xiao replied with a smile, drawing upon the power of the Heavenly Dao Sariras. With the Genesis Spirit''s presence, his Dantian could hold more sacred power, propelling him into the Early Genesis Spirit Realm and significantly boosting his power!

    On his first day in the Primordial Ruins, his cultivation soared continuously. "This just shows, with a solid foundation, there''s no beating that can break me. Once I step into a new realm, my rise is unstoppable."

    Yun Xiao felt a sense of awe. The power of the Creator Immortal was truly formidable, visibly terrifying.

    With the new perspective of the Genesis Spirit, he gazed through the eyes of this diminutive being at the nine spherical primordial void suns surrounding him, akin to a person encircled by nine colossal fireballs.

    After reaching the Genesis Spirit Realm, the next level was the Sacred Wheel Realm. This was where the sacred power perfected itself into a wheel shape, transforming within the Five Cmities or Five Decays to ascend into a higher form of immortal power.

    The Dao Heart entered the Fate Ocean, the Heaven Sanctuary birthed the Genesis Spirit, and the Sacred Wheel dominated the Five Cmities¡ªonly now, it faced the Five Decays.

    "After the first tribtion of the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm, therees the Saint and the Awakened Emperor Realm..." Yun Xiao, having arrived at the Primordial Ruins, had gained some understanding of the path thaty beneath the immortaldder, the path of cultivation that awaited.

    He took a moment to steady his power, securing his Early Genesis Spirit Realm cultivation, and soon, dawn broke.

    Lian Xi had been watching him the whole time. Eventually, she, like a child, dozed off on the stone table. Her cheeks were flushed, and she mumbled in her sleep, "No, you can''t," clearly lost in some less-than-pure dream.

    "This girl... truly blissful," Yun Xiao began with a critique but ended up reflecting. The path of immortality, real or not, if he were still his former self, how could he have witnessed such a fairy in her most unguarded moments before him?

    The chasm of ss was the harshest reality of the world.

    Yun Xiao sat beside her, captivated by her profile for a long while.

    "Hmm..." Lian Xi woke up, rubbing her eyes. Catching sight of Yun Xiao, her face turned a deeper shade of red, and she muttered, "...Jerk."

    "If you keep insulting me, I might just make your dreamse true," Yun Xiao teased.

    "No!" She recoiled, then sneaked another nce at Yun Xiao and mumbled, "In a few days, I''ll turn 15."

    "Which day?" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled.

    "On Three Immortals Day," Lian Xi said.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Three Immortals Day, huh? Sounds kind of pompous to me," Yun Xiao joked.

    "It''s the day the Three True Immortals descended into the Primordial Ruins to relieve suffering," Lian Xi exined.

    "They relieve what now? Themselves?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "What?" Lian Xi was stunned, staring at Yun Xiao in disbelief.

    "Oh, nothing..." Yun Xiao coughed, realizing the stark contrast between his appearance and his coarsenguage was too much for Lian Xi to handle.

    "Enough talk, let''s go take your test!"

    Lian Xi stood up, stretching like a great beast, her joints popping loudly. If one wasn''t paying attention, they might think a mythical creature was right before their eyes.

    "Wait." Yun Xiao grabbed her hand and asked, "Tell me, in the Primordial Ruins, what grade are the Sword Souls of the Sword Cultivators usually at?"

    "Grades?" Lian Xi tilted her head in thought. "Ignis grade is considered entry-level, usually capping at the Genesis Spirit Realm. Aurum grade is divided into lower, middle, and upper tiers, forming the foundation that can reach the Sacred Wheel Realm. Beyond that, there''s a saying, ''Three Yin grades for Kings, three Yang grades for Emperors.'' The Yin grade can generally reach the Five Decays Realm, while the Yang grade has a high chance of transcending the Five Decays, undergoing a transformation, significantly extending one''s lifespan, and assaulting the path to immortality."

    Yun Xiao recalled that Song Bomei''s Sword Soul was of the Yin grade, while the more gifted Huyan Luo''s Sword Soul was of the lower Yang grade, considered quite high in the Primordial Ruins. His youth was the only thing holding him back from being even more formidable.

    "So, the Sword Cultivators here generally have six or seven Sword Rings?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Right... but not necessarily. Some prefer not to wear any if they don''t have good ones. Judging Sword Soul grades by Sword Rings can be hasty. Those with seven Sword Rings definitely possess King or Emperor level Sword Souls of the Yin or Yang grades, but having five or six doesn''t necessarily mean they''re inferior," Lian Xi exined.

    "What then, precisely distinguishes the grades?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Sword Inheritance Stones," Lian Xi said with a smile.

    "There are Sword Inheritance Stones here too?"

    "Of course..." Lian Xi sighed, covering her forehead.

    With this information, Yun Xiao had a clearer picture. In terms of talent, figures like the Sword Warden could barely make it in the Primordial Ruins, while someone like the Talisman Emperor, if raised here, could reach the middle tier.

    "It makes sense that the Primordial Ruins stand above countless worlds."

    The Nine Hells wouldn''t have Sword Souls with seven Sword Rings, deemed King or Emperor.

    The twelfth level of the Aurum grade was the limit there.

    With this in mind, Yun Xiao changed the subject, "Then, do you know how many Sword Rings the Human Zenith Immortal has?"

    "Common knowledge," Lian Xi replied with a sweet innocence.

    "Oh?"

    "The Human Zenith Immortal, with his eight Sword Rings reaching to the heavens. Those practicing ascension are always chanting about it," Lian Xi exined, a touch of exasperation in her voice.

    "Eight rings to the heavens?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh. "What heavens is he reaching for?"

    "Huh?" Lian Xi covered her face. So blunt! And yet, so endearing.

    "Lil Xi," Yun Xiao took her hand gently, his question earnest, "What if someone had nine Sword Rings? Would the Primordial Academy consider them a once-in-a-lifetime genius?"

    Lian Xi paused, then shook her head gravely, "If someone had nine Sword Rings, they''d be dead."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao''s expression darkened.

    "In the Primordial Ruins, the Three True Immortals are the pirs of faith, the limits of the heavens, the legends of our time... If anyone were to surpass the Three True Immortals in any obvious aspect, they''d only be seen as one thing¡ªa harbinger of chaos!"

    Lian Xi looked down, "Step outside the academy, and the world will hunt you down,beling you a demon to be in in the name of justice, to protect themon good... They refuse to acknowledge anything mightier than the Three True Immortals. It''s all illusions, plots, and schemes. Only the Three True Immortals are the holy saviors."

    "Oh? People are that foolish?" Yun Xiao mused with a smirk.

    "It''s not about being foolish, brother. It''s something indescribable, living in people''s minds, beyond your wildest imaginations..." Lian Xi sped her hands, suddenly nervous, her voice trembling slightly.

    "So, you''re afraid?" Yun Xiao suddenly grasped her hands.

    "Me?" Lian Xi''s delicate body shook, she quickly replied, "What do I have to fear? I''ve done nothing to surpass the Three True Immortals. They are beyond reach."

    "Is that so? Seems you''re not trying hard enough." Yun Xiao stood up, summoning the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, and with a deliberate motion, he slid 18 Sword Rings onto it. Turning to Lian Xi, he dered, "I''ve surpassed them, and by quite a margin."

 Chapter 400: Eliminate Them All, No Explanations Needed!

    Chapter 400: Eliminate Them All, No Exnations Needed!

    "Your Sword Soul..." Lian Xi gaped at the 18 gleaming Sword Rings stacked together, her beautiful eyes wide, lips slightly parted, and tongue trembling lightly.

    "Shush, keep it down." Yun Xiao, with a swift motion, removed those 18 Sword Rings.

    Compared to the terrifying 300,000yers of Sword Aura, these 18 Sword Rings weren''t much use, unless Yun Xiao could get his hands on some stronger Demon Blood Crystals.

    Lian Xi just stared nkly as he stowed away the Sword Rings, still quite dazed.

    "We''re off!" Yun Xiao pinched her cheek and gave it a shake.

    "Oh, right." Lian Xi followed him, still looking bewildered.

    "Once the test is over, I''m heading straight to challenge the Primordial Pagoda," Yun Xiao said as they walked.

    "Okay," Lian Xi nodded.

    "After that, you''ll help me look for some sword techniques and daoist spells," Yun Xiao added.

    "Okay."

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    Soon, they had crossed most of the Primordial Academy and arrived at a ce known as the Enrollment Hall, the venue for the daoist exams.

    Along the way, more people stood at a distance, watching Yun Xiao pass by. They didn''t whisper or point, but their expressions were a tad serious as they silently watched him go by, not engaging in gossip or mockery. This showed the high caliber of most students at the Primordial Academy.

    "Is he officially enrolling today?"

    "Let''s check it out."

    Many students from the Primordial Academy quietly followed behind. Upon reaching the Enrollment Hall, Yun Xiao saw that ten examiners had already arrived, and atop a high seat, a bald middle-aged man was engrossed in a book.

    It was Uncle River, Lian Xi''s uncle master. Heid down his heavy book filled with the <em>wisdom</em> of the sages, ncing at Yun Xiao and Lian Xi. His thick eyebrows danced upwards as he quipped, "Heard you two made quite the spectaclest night."

    Lian Xi, caught off guard, blinked. "You heard?"

    "In a ce as cozy as this, whispers fly faster than a demon on the prowl." Uncle River chuckled, the twinkle in his eye revealing a man who delighted in the ship''s gossip¡ª<em>ship</em> being his fond term for the sprawling expanse of the Primordial Ruins.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but smirk; the odd stares from the academy''s cultivators now made perfect sense. His tangle with Huyan Luo had turned him into an overnight sensation, it seemed.

    As the chatter died down, an expectant silence took its ce, not for new recruits but for a different sort altogether. The academy disciples at the gate bowed their heads ever so slightly, parting to the sides to make a path, their eyes alight with respect.

    Soon, a band of youths sauntered in, their aura alone speaking volumes of their unparalleled prowess. To Yun Xiao, this was the elite of the elite, a ss apart from any he''d encountered since setting foot in the Primordial Ruins, save for Lian Xi. Each one a marvel of the cultivator''s world, born of lineages so grand, they were the envy of the heavens themselves.

    Yet, there was something distinct about thempared to the highborn brats Yun Xiao had bumped into before. These youths carried themselves with ease, their faces serene, their manners impable, devoid of any trace of arrogance. They exuded a vibe of positivity and grand ambition that was almost infectious.

    "They''re from the Pathseeker Society,''" Lian Xi whispered.

    "What do they do?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s a club of sorts run by the students. Their main goal is to secure the rights of disciples by keeping an eye on the teachers. They''re also responsible for organizing events like demon hunting. But¡­"

    "But what?"

    "It''s a mixed bag. Everyone belongs to different factions and backgrounds. Despite the noble intent, it''s a big mess with everyone pushing their own agenda," Lian Xi concluded, her lips pursed into a slight frown.

    "And you''re not part of this merry band?" Yun Xiao asked, his grin widening, already knowing the answer.

    Lian Xi shrugged, her eyes lingering on the new arrivals. "Those deep into the Pathseekers are from the lineages of the Three True Immortals, aiming to wield the reins of power in the future."

    Yun Xiao summed it up, "So, the Pathseeker Society is like a mini Sky Source Ruins or Human Zenith Ruins."

    "Exactly."

    Having wandered the human realms and being of imperial descent, Yun Xiao had a keen sense for the machinations of power.

    Among the Pathseekers, a refined young man in a white-gold robe stepped forward with a group, bowing with a smile, "Tian Zhixiu, at your service, Uncle River, and esteemed teachers."

    Uncle River kept mum, but the other teachers stood to greet, "Primordial Son, as you were."

    The title <em>Primordial Son</em> was clearly a mark of respect for the prodigies of the Three True Immortal lineages.

    "Mystic Golden Dao Embryo!" Blue Star peeked out from Yun Xiao''s embrace, his blue eyes fixed on the elegant youth named Tian Zhixiu.

    "A top-tier human talent Seed of Creation?" Yun Xiao murmured.

    "The best we''ve seen, better than Yuan Wu," Blue Star cackled.

    Yun Xiao turned to Lian Xi, "And he is?"

    "The president of the Pathseekers, Tian Zhixiu, a notable figure of the academy and a direct descendant of the Sky Source Ruins," Lian Xi exined.

    "And his character?" Yun Xiao probed further.

    "Exemry. Humble, polite, graceful, and learned¡­ the dream of many a young maiden in the ruins," Lian Xi shared.

    At the mention of dream lovers, their eyes met.

    Lian Xi bit her lip, her cheeks flushing.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao caught a cold gaze from the ranks of the Pathseekers, one from Song Bomei, and another from a fierce young woman in ck armor, her slender waist and legs visible.

    "Who''s that?" Yun Xiao inquired.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Huyan Pin."

    Hearing the surname, Yun Xiao got the picture.

    More students gathered around, sensing the tension between Yun Xiao and Huyan Pin.

    "Your sister Yingying is here too," Yun Xiao nudged Lian Xi as a girl in a pink dress entered, searching the crowd until Song Bomei greeted her with a smile, beckoning her to his side.

    Liu Yingying couldn''t muster the courage to defy him and meeklyplied.

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    "Last night''s hurried farewell left me wondering, is Miss Liu faring well?" Song Bomei with a gentle voice.

    "I''m fine," Liu Yingying replied, a touch of nervousness in her voice.

    "Let''s enjoy the view together," Yun Xiao suggested, his gaze lingering on her.

    "Alright."

    In truth, Liu Yingying was wary of the figure beside Song Bomei, but feeling trapped, she had no choice but to say, "About yesterday, it all happened so suddenly, causing some difort. After leaving, I gave Yun Xiao an earful, hoping Master Song would..."

    "Oh, look, the neers have arrived," Song Bomei cut her off, pointing outside.

    "So many of them!" Liu Yingying awkwardly changed the subject, no longer daring to mention the previous night.

    "Indeed, many are fresh from the lower worlds, nearing twenty, aren''t they? In our world, that''s almost graduation age," Song Bomei remarked wistfully.

    Clearly, out of the 130-plus neers, those from the Primordial Ruins were generally younger.

    "Altogether, there must be five or six at the Establishment Genesis Spirit Realm," Song Bomei added, sounding quite pleased.

    "That strong?" Liu Yingying felt a bit embarrassed; these neers were even stronger than her.

    Under her watchful eye, Song Ze led all the neers into the arena.

    "Quite the crowd today..."

    Song Ze was well aware of whom they were all there to see.

    On a normal day, who would bother with the neers?

    "Everyone''s here?" Uncle River asked Song Ze.

    "All here!" Song Ze confirmed. "This month has brought some promising talents."

    "We''ll see after the test," Uncle River waved off, seemingly uninterested inying out the rules.

    It appeared that the neers were mostly confident, a sign that Song Ze had drilled the rules into them numerous times.

    Yun Xiao was the only one out of the loop.

    "I forgot to tell you about the rules. Getting into the Primordial Academy is a serious affair. There are a hundred points up for grabs, and you need at least sixty to start cultivating in the halls," Lian Xi began, only to be cut off by Yun Xiao''s dismissive wave.

    "Don''t bother with the details. I''ll ace it without breaking a sweat," he dered with a confidence that bordered on arrogance. "If I can''t breeze through something as simple as this, I might as well hang up my hat."

    Lian Xi bit her lip, watching this man''s overbearing confidence with a mix of admiration and concern.

    "But it''s not just about martial prowess," she tried to exin. "The academy tests your temperament, innate talent, ability to work with others, and so on..."

    Yun Xiao wasn''t listening anymore. He''d already merged with the crowd, eager to get this over with.

    Ahead, he saw a tform with over a hundred desks, each piled high with stacks of paper.

    "What''s the test? Drawing inscriptions?"

    No sooner had the thought crossed his mind than Song Ze announced from the front, "There are three parts to the test. The first part: Test of the Dao Heart, worth thirty points."

    "Test of the Dao Heart? What in the world is that?"

    As Song Ze finished speaking, the neers approached the desks, and Yun Xiao nonchntly picked one to sit at.

    "Begin the test. You have half an hour," dered Song Ze.

    "A written test?" Yun Xiao paused for a moment, then picked up the stack of papers in front of him.

    Each sheet bore a question, thirty in total, covering a range of topics that would test far more than just his martial skills.

    Yun Xiao nced over the questions and was utterly baffled.

    "Me, a free-spirited cultivator, sitting here taking a test?"

    It was nauseating. He took a closer look at the questions, and his disgust deepened. Take the first question, for example!

    It asked¡ªduring a mission to y demons, you can only eliminate two out of the following four beings. Who would you choose and why?

    The choices were as follows:

    A: A kind-hearted demon that identally killed civilians.

    B: A human cultivator who betrayed his teammates.

    C: A teammate who gave up on himself and messed up the team''s morale, leading to the mission''s failure.

    D: A civilian who actively provided information to the demons, causing heavy losses to your team.

    At first nce, Yun Xiao didn''t think much of it, but upon closer inspection, he felt dizzy.

    "Only two options and I need to justify my choices?"

    He was annoyed. But not for long.

    "Forget it, this won''t stump me."

    After some thought, he mused, "The one who made this test is trying to test my decisiveness in killing. Those who answer honestlyck a direct approach and surely won''t score high."

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    With that in mind, he was quite pleased with himself and, with a flourish, wrote on his answer sheet:

    "Eliminate them all, no exnations needed!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 401: Demon Slaying, Life and Death Doesnt Matter!

    Chapter 401: Demon ying, Life and Death Doesn''t Matter!

    After mulling over the questions, though they were as tricky as a coiled snake, they didn''t stump Yun Xiao. Sixty breathster, he stood up, sweeping his robes aside with a flourish, and dered to Song Ze and the ten overseeing teachers, "I''m done!"

    The neers, deep in their brain-wracking session, almost toppled over in shock to see someone turning in their work so soon. For them, the stakes were sky-high at the Primordial Academy!

    Especially for those from the lower worlds, sess here meant glory that would shine through ages, a legacy for generations.

    Lian Xi, worried, asked, "Did you really breeze through that?"

    Yun Xiao, with a chuckle, responded, "Piece of cake."

    "Really? But I''ve heard the Academy''s tests of spirit are the toughest. Even the brightest sparks have stumbled here," Lian Xi said.

    "They just weren''t straight shooters," Yun Xiao quipped with a grin.

    Lian Xi, now almost in awe, nodded in agreement.

    As time dragged on, the room buzzed with anticipation. Finally, after a long half hour, papers were collected, and many a candidate staggered up, legs shaky, backs drenched.

    Yun Xiao, eyeing the heap of extensively scribbled papers, wondered aloud, "Why''d they write novels?"

    Lian Xi just sighed.

    Then came the thrill¡ªthe senior teachers began their review right then and there. They huddled, asionally casting bewildered looks at Yun Xiao.

    And so, with a dramatic ir, Song Ze announced the scores. A perfect score was 30 points.

    "Tian Qingxue, with 28 points, A leader in the making!"

    In the crowd, a young girl about 12 or 13 shed a confident smile.

    Then, the scoring continued, each person receiving their evaluation from a teacher.

    "Why does it seem like we''re going from high scores to low?" Yun Xiao wondered aloud.

    "You''re just realizing this now?" Lian Xi facepalmed.

    "Darn, what about me?" Yun Xiao had a bad feeling.

    The scores were announced swiftly.

    At this point, a score of nine was dered, followed by the remark, "This is the second tost for today."

    Suddenly, all eyes turned to Yun Xiao.

    With an impassive face, the announcer dered, "Yun Xiao, zero points, evaluation; a desperate fugitive with a twisted mind!"

    Yun Xiao was petrified.

    Laughter erupted around him.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "That''s it, I''m convinced."

    "How many years has it been since the Primordial Academy saw such a uniquely scoreless talent?"

    "My mother said, scoring zero in this test usually means there''s something off upstairs..."

    Even Uncle River was taken aback.

    "Let me see!" He grabbed Yun Xiao''s answers and scanned them.

    "Darn." His initially puzzled expression cleared up immediately.

    "Calm down," Lian Xi hurried to console.

    "I am calm." Frozen, yet with a serene expression, Yun Xiao remarked, "The Primordial Ruins are shackled by too much chaos and disorder, blurring the lines between saints and devils. That''s why a normal person like me seems abnormal here."

    Lian Xi paused, digesting his words.

    Without saying more, she took Yun Xiao''s hand and smiled sweetly. Her gesture said, "No matter what, I''m here for you."

    For Yun Xiao, the understanding of the world didn''t matter.

    Having her get it was enough.

    "I propose we frame his test paper and hang it at the academy''s gates for all in the Primordial Ruins to see just how twisted his insides are," came a chilly female voice from the crowd.

    Heads turned to find Huyan Pin speaking.

    "Enough with the nonsense," Uncle River chided sternly before instructing Song Ze, "Next round."

    "Understood!" Song Ze nodded.

    "There are only 70 points left. Thirty for the second round and 40 for the third. You need to score over 60, or it''ll be trouble," Lian Xi cautioned Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao got her drift. Too many eyes in the Primordial Ruins were fixed on them, a ceden with shackles. Not just her, but even her master, Dean Yu, was bound by countless restraints.

    "No worries," Yun Xiao assured with a nod.

    The next challenge was the Bronze Men Formation.

    Bronze Men, celestial automatons, tailored to each participant''s age, awaited them for a head-on battle.

    This was a walk in the park for Yun Xiao!

    He stepped into the arena, his Flying Sword whirling out, turning dozens of Bronze Men into dust that settled into three words on the ground¡ª<em>Lian Xi''s Hubby.</em>

    The overseeing teacher, begrudgingly, awarded him 30 points.

    The final round, worth 40 points, loomed ahead.

    This was the main event, the ultimate test!

    "Form up, we''re heading into the Demon Prison!" Song Ze announced to the neers with a grave look, "A reminder, the third round with the Demon Prison simtes a real demon-ying mission. There''ll be no elders to watch over or protect you. You''ll enter an unsupervised realm and rely on teamwork to y demons and pass. The trials set by the Primordial Academy mirror life itself. How youmunicate, coborate, unite, and fight within a group defines your lifetime!"

    Yun Xiao was puzzled.

    He thought today''s test would be a breeze, but it turned out to be moreplex than he imagined.

    Heading into a real Demon Prison?

    "How are we splitting up?" Yun Xiao quizzed Lian Xi.

    "Based on the prowess you showed in the second round, the teachers will team you up with four others. You''re strong, so your teammates might be less so. They aim to bnce the overall strength of each five-man squad," Lian Xi exined.

    "And how do they score us in a ce even a supervising teacher can''t see?" Yun Xiao was puzzled.

    "It''s all about how many demons your team takes down. Doesn''t matter who does what; the score''s split five ways at the end," Lian Xi said.

    "Darn, so I''m stuck carrying dead weight and sharing the spoils? What kind of sense does that make?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but protest.

    "Truth be told, the real test here is about the human spirit, teamwork, and rivalry... It''s a measure of one''s true mettle. The Primordial Academy stresses one thing: Talent''s just the hand you''re dealt. How you y it often counts for more. Many with a full deck end up folding early, and that''s why," Lian Xi earnestly put forth.

    "Fair point, but let''s not get carried away." Yun Xiao wasn''t all that taken with the academy''s philosophy. All he knew was he''d be lumped with fourggards.

    And sure enough! A quarter hourter, he was staring down at four kids, none older than twelve.

    "Y-Yun Bro, hi!"

    Seeing Yun Xiao''s strength, they were at least sensible.

    Their good manners spared them Yun Xiao''s scorn.

    With all teams set, some were jittery about entering the Demon Prison, where real and fierce demons were locked up.

    Then, right before Yun Xiao''s eyes, the ground shook, and a circr cavern yawned open.

    In a blink, a surge of demonic aura sted up from the abyss below, bringing with it ferocious roars of brutality.

    "Once you descend, your fate''s in your own hands! The Primordial Academy doesn''t care for excuses, only the Blood Crystals you bring back," Song Ze announced, his voice as cold as ice.

    It was clear; it was every man for himself down there.

    "This is truly a trial by fire on the path to immortality," Yun Xiao sneered.

    No elders to watch over, no one to know if you''d breathed yourst.

    It was like stepping onto a battlefield of demons, where luck was your best ally.

    Yet, Yun Xiao''s blood boiled with anticipation.

    "Go!" One by one, young souls, eyes aze with passion for their dreams, leaped into the Demon Prison.

    Yun Xiao, with his four young charges in tow, was thest to enter.

    <em>BOOM!</em> The gates of the Demon Prison mmed shut.

    They wouldn''t open again for half an hour...

    A hush fell over the ce.

    "Song Bomei," Huyan Pin nced at the man beside her.

    "In there, Yun Xiao''s without Lian Xi''s protection. No heavens to hear his cries, no earth to heed his calls, with all meid at the feet of demons..." Song Bomei smirked coldly, his handsing together, hiding a white worm that slowly came to life within his grasp.

 Chapter 402: What About C and D?

    Chapter 402: What About C and D?

    Deep in the Demon Prison, the air was thick with the sound of roars and the nking of chains. The path below, littered with steel chains and magic circles, seemed to lead straight into the bowels of hell itself. The brutal, angry howls echoing from the depths sent a shiver down the spines of the new demon yers gathered there.

    Rumor had it that the demons locked up in the Primordial Academy''s prison were so twisted by their long confinement that they became especially vicious towards neers.

    But for these rookies, turning back wasn''t an option.

    The prison gate above, forged from top-notch iron and etched with magical runes, was designed to be impregnable from the inside. Their only way out was to keep fighting until the gate would open on its own.

    Yun Xiao was thest to enter, but he was in no hurry.

    "There''s plenty of time," he said, ncing back at the four kids trailing behind him, their faces a mix of nervousness and determination.

    Listening to the demonic shrieks, theirplexions paled, but their spirits didn''t falter.

    "Brother Yun, you just do your thing. We''ll keep up," a particrly neat-looking kid piped up, trying to muster bravery.

    "We won''t hold you back... We''ll give it our all," the others chimed in, their voices a mix of fear and resolve.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Despite their anxiety, they didn''t show any signs of backing down. In their eyes, Yun Xiao saw a burning desire for the Primordial Academy.

    "What''s your name?" Yun Xiao asked the neat-looking boy.

    "Yue Molin, from the Inkwind Realm," the boy replied.

    "Inkwind Realm, huh?" Yun Xiao was surprised. "I thought you''d be from the Primordial Ruins."

    "Yes, I''m the first from the Inkwind Realm to ever set foot in the Primordial Ruins. My dream is to join the Primordial Academy and stay here forever. I''ve been training day and night, never cking off..."

    "Okay, that''s enough," Yun Xiao cut him off, chuckling, to spare them a family history lesson. "Weren''t you the one who scored pretty high on the Dao Heart test?"

    "Yes, I scored 25 points, ranked fourth," Yue Molin replied to Yun Xiao''s query, eager to share.

    Noticing the crowd hesitating at the entrance to the demon pit, Yun Xiao, with time to kill, curiously asked, "Let me throw a question your way."

    "Shoot!" Yue Molin nodded eagerly, well aware that Yun Xiao, like himself, was an outsider to the Primordial Ruins.

    "How did you tackle the first question? The one about choosing two out of four to eliminate," Yun Xiao inquired casually, his gaze still fixed on the abyss below.

    "That question?" Yue Molin pondered for a moment, then said earnestly, "I believe the right answer, in the eyes of the Primordial Academy, was to eliminate A and B."

    "A and B? A demon who identally harmed people due to its kind nature and a human cultivator who betrayed his teammates?" Yun Xiao was slightly surprised.

    "Exactly!" Yue Molin nodded.

    "Why''s that? Give me the details," Yun Xiao asked.

    The other three kids, intrigued by this post-exam discussion, gathered around.

    Confident in his reasoning, Yue Molin exined, "Firstly, about A. It''s about the core mission of the Primordial Academy, which is to y demons, vanquish devils, and protect the Dao for the sake of all beings. Whether a demon is kind-hearted or not is irrelevant to us protectors of the dao. If itmits murder, the Academy must execute it, failing which it cannot justify itself to the victims or the public, nor can it stand firm on its founding principles. Therefore, not choosing A as the primary target is essentially an incorrect answer."

    "Go on," Yun Xiao nodded, encouraging him to continue.

    "The second one, B, is a human cultivator who betrayed his team. Betrayal, no matter the reason, constitutes an act against humanity. From the standpoint of humanity, such a person deserves to be punished. So, B is a legitimate target," Yue Molin stated.

    "In short, define your principles, then take a stand," Yun Xiao nodded, finding Yue Molin''s answer reasonable. After a pause, he added, "But what I don''t get is, why can''t I also eliminate C and D?"

    "This ties back to the issues of authority andw enforcement," Yue Molin replied.

    "borate, please," Yun Xiao requested.

    The path of cultivation was as much about life''s journey as it was about spiritual practice. These moral dilemmas posed in the tests often reflected profound truths about human nature, which Yun Xiao found fascinating.

    Yue Molin continued, "C is the teammate who gives up and drags everyone down, causing the mission to fail. In other words, a liability. It''s crucial to note that while C might be ipetent, causing frustration and failure, he hasn''tmitted betrayal."

    "But if his failure leads to innocent deaths, doesn''t he deserve to die?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "He might deserve punishment, depending on the severity of his actions. But here''s the catch: the <em>I</em> in the question is a participant in the demon-ying mission, subjective and influenced by emotions. Without an act of betrayal, merely making a mistake doesn''t give us the right to judge him. If we''re disciples of the Primordial Academy, we should report his actions to the elders forw enforcement, not take matters into our own hands. The wrongdoer''s fate should be decided by thew, not by our whims," Yue Molin exined.

    Yun Xiao chuckled and shook his head, neither agreeing nor disagreeing. He recognized that this was the answer the Primordial Academy would endorse. "And what about D? Why not eliminate them? They sold information to demons, betraying humanity," Yun Xiao finally inquired.

    "D''s situation", Yue Molin sighed slightly, "is also tied to the ethos of the Primordial Academy. The academy''s cultivators believe that ordinary folks are the weaker ones under the heavens, limited by their talents and realities, embodying naivety and ignorance. Cultivators should harborpassion, understanding the hardships of all beings. If themon folk err, it calls for self-reflection among cultivators to shoulder the heavy responsibility of enlightening and truly benefiting the world. If we ensure the people are free from demonic harm, why would they harm cultivators?" he exined.

    This answer caught Yun Xiao off guard.

    "That''s some high-minded thinking," Yun Xiao couldn''t help butmend Yue Molin with a thumbs-up, smiling, "No wonder you scored high. You''re a good kid."

    "It''s just following the pathid by the predecessors of the Primordial Academy. I''m just offering what little I have," Yue Molin said, scratching his head in modesty.

    "The Primordial Academy is indeed great!" chimed in the other kids.

    "I heard you chose to eliminate them all, no exnations given... After hearing Yue Molin''s answer, would you still eliminate C and D?" one curious kid asked.

    Yun Xiao''s smile slowly faded. "I''d still choose to eliminate them all," he stated.

    The kids, including Yue Molin, were stunned.

    "Why? Eliminating C is overstepping, and D... goes against the Academy''s principles," Yue Molin pointed out.

    "It doesn''t contradict. The Academy can continue to enlighten and benefit the world, and that doesn''t conflict with my actions. I acknowledge that people have limitations, but if theymit evil acts, leading to <em>heavy losses</em> in the demon-ying mission... Everyone must pay for their mistakes. Being <em>weak</em> is not a get-out-of-jail-free card. Not to eliminate them would be unfair to others who died because of it," Yun Xiao exined.

    The kids exchanged looks, unsure of what to say in response to Yun Xiao''s rationale.

    To argue? The question already stated that the betrayal by themon folk led to <em>heavy losses</em>.

    If one''s own siblings or rtives died in such a mission, who could maintain such grandpassion and understand the plight of all beings?

    From his personal and human perspective, Yun Xiao couldn''t spare D.

    "What about C?" Yue Molin, feeling the weight of the topic on D, shifted the conversation back to C.

    "C?" Yun Xiao knew that the issue with C wasn''t about being a liability but about overstepping authority.

    Yun Xiao, with a hint of mischief in his smile, asked the kids, "So, you fancy taking out C?"

    "Yeah, but we can''t just go around ying judge and executioner," Yue Molin whispered back, almost as if he was revealing a secret he shouldn''t.

    "Well, let''s cut the chatter and get to work. Demon-ying waits for no one, especially not for us youngsters," Yun Xiao said, his smile broadening.

    Nods all around. These kids, still so young, lived in a world governed by rules and innocence, believing there was always a <em>right answer</em>. But life wasn''t a test with clear-cut answers. When faced with the gritty reality, that was when true understanding came.

    "Let''s move," Yun Xiao urged, not wanting to waste any more time. This chat had been enlightening, a step in his own journey of understanding the path of cultivation.

    Descending into the fray was just another day for him, a mere formality in this third challenge.

    But then, just as he was about to lead the way, something unexpected halted everyone in their tracks.

    The crowd ahead, ready to charge, suddenly froze. In a swift motion, they turned, their gazes locking onto Yun Xiao with an intensity that was almost palpable.

    A wave of fierce, almost demonic intent surged from them, their roars echoing like beasts unleashed.

    Yun Xiao saw their transformation¡ªskin darkening to a deep crimson, veins bulging, faces contorted with grotesque bumps, eyes bloodshot, their breathing heavy andbored.

    Their hearts raced, blood pumping furiously, as if ignited, their inner energy boiling over in a frenzied outburst.

    "Yun... Brother Yun..." came the strained voices of Yue Molin and the others from behind.

    Whirling around, Yun Xiao saw the same monstrous change had overtaken the four kids. Their faces twisted with malice, yet their eyes betrayed a deep agony. Especially Yue Molin, whose skin was cracked and bleeding as if infested by writhing serpents. His hand, clutching his Sword Soul, trembled as he fought to restrain his own strike, his palm smeared with blood.

    "Get out of here! Hurry..." Yue Molin''s eyes were blood-red, his voice a guttural growl, urging Yun Xiao to flee.

    This sudden turn of events was like a plunge from light into darkness, and Yun Xiao''s heart sank with it.

    "Bluey, what''s happening here?" Yun Xiao asked, fury and confusion swirling in his gaze. He had taken quite a liking to the young Yue Molin during their brief exchange. But now, he watched in horror as the kid, along with the others, seemed to be on the brink, their bodies teetering towards copse.

    Blue Star stared nkly for a moment before coldly saying, "They''ve all been fed Life-Burning Gu! Damn it, these pests are too tiny to notice until they strike!"

    The word <em>Gu</em> alone was enough to tell Yun Xiao that someone was using these neers as pawns in a deadly game against him. And sure enough, there were natives of the Primordial Ruins among them, willing to go to extreme lengths.

    If all of them were to perish here, Lian Xi would be powerless, her protectors unable to shield them from this hidden menace.

    "What do we do?" Yun Xiao asked, his anger simmering, but his mind clear.

    "The Queen Gu must be outside. Kill it, and they might stand a chance," Blue Star responded coldly.

    "Let''s go!" Yun Xiao dered.

    Just then, the horde of frenzied neers, their power unnaturally amplified, charged at him with a roar.

    Yun Xiao knew they were just innocent victims caught in a cruel trap. Yue Molin, tears of blood streaming down his face, seemed to cling to a shred of consciousness despite beingpelled to attack.

    "Gate of the Demon Prison!"

    With a surge of Sovereign Sword energy, Yun Xiao executed Myriad Swords Ocean Traversal, escaping the encirclement in a sh. He transformed into a gleaming azure light, wrapped in 300,000yers of Sword Aura, and mmed into the iron gates of the Demon Prison.

    The gate vibrated under the impact, its magical arrays activated, radiating light but remaining unyielding. Yun Xiao, despite using all his might, was left reeling from the force, thankful only that his Heaven Burial Sword Soul was durable enough to withstand the collision.

    The solidity of the prison gate was undoubtedly something the culprit relied on.

    "Dammit!" Yun Xiao cursed, ncing at the onrushing crowd. He turned to Blue Star and Red Moon, "Bust this gate open!"

    "That''s gonna cost a pretty penny," Blue Star grumbled, "Wiping out these 100 folks would be cheaper, and more cost-effective."

    "Bust it!" Yun Xiao snapped, smacking Blue Star on the head in frustration.

    "Fine, fine!" Blue Star retorted, before it and Red Moon transformed into an ancient bronze coffin, hurling themselves at the gate in a desperate attempt to break it open.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 403: To Hell With You and Your Laws!

    Chapter 403: To Hell With You and Your Laws!

    Outside, Song Bomei was fondling the white jade-like Life-Burning Queen Gu in his hand, exchanging a knowing smile with Huyan Pin.

    "For trapping demons, the door to the Demon Prison was reinforced with a Yin grade formation. Even if he''s at the brink of exhaustion, he won''t be able to escape," Song Bomei whispered, his face darkening with a sinister grin.

    No sooner had he finished speaking than the Demon Prison door trembled ever so slightly.

    "Panic strikes, and desperation follows," Huyan Pin snickered.

    The others noticed the stir at the Demon Prison gate too, but none reacted, figuring it was just another demon testing its bounds¡ªamon enough urrence during trials.

    Song Ze chuckled, musing aloud, "The path of cultivation is paved with the ying of demons. It''s a harsh road, and elders can''t always be there to hold their hands. Even fresh initiates must tread it alone."

    "Teacher Song speaks the truth!" came the chorus of ttery.

    And then, in a sh!

    Boom!!

    A deafening explosion tore through the silence, shattering the Demon Prison Gate into fragments that soared skyward. The ground cracked under the force, sending up clouds of dust and smoke that obscured all vision.

    "What the¡ª?"

    The assembled teachers and disciples, caught off guard by the unexpected breach, stood frozen in shock.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>A streak of azure light, a Sovereign Sword at its lead, burst forth, charging directly into the crowd!

    "Lian Xi! To my side, now!" a voice thundered with rage, cutting through the chaos toward a snow-white d girl among them.

    "Huh?" Lian Xi''s eyes locked onto the figure wielding the Sovereign Sword. He was furious!

    Lian Xi didn''t know what had transpired, but she felt a surge of anger too, making her the quickest to react.

    With a crackle and a sh, she turned into a bolt of white lightning, swiftly positioning herself beside Yun Xiao, facing the crowd from the Pathseeker Society. There stood Liu Yingying, among others.

    "What''s the meaning of this?!" Song Ze and the other teachers all rose to their feet.

    "Halt!" theymanded in unison, ready to suppress the disruptors.

    But then, a thunderous voice from behind boomed, "Sit down, all of you!" Recognizing it as the voice of Uncle River, the teachers hesitated, not daring to move rashly.

    "Did he just break through the gate?" Song Bomei gasped in shock upon spotting the streak of azure light.

    "Impossible! That was a Yin grade formation!"

    "It''s alright!" Huyan Pin quickly stepped in front of Song Bomei.

    Yet, the air grew colder as more figures positioned themselves in front of Lian Xi and Yun Xiao.

    "What are you trying to do in this sacred ce of learning?" cold voices from the direct disciples of the Three True Immortals demanded.

    "Lian Xi, we can talk this out," said Tian Zhixiu, his pale eyes fixed on her, his tone neither warm nor cold.

    Yun Xiao, without breaking stride, told Lian Xi, "Make them move."

    "Okay!" Lian Xi seemed to know exactly whom Yun Xiao was targeting. Without a word, she wielded her hammer and axe, storming into the crowd like a tempest of thunder and fire.

    Her petite frame resembled a rampaging beast, sending people flying wherever she went!

    Several youths from the Academy, caught off guard by her assault, were sent soaring hundreds of feet into the air with a single strike of her hammer, as if they were shot up to the skies!

    Her magic weapons, heavy as mountains, were swift as storms in her hands.

    "Out of the way!" This fierce version of Lian Xi threw Tian Zhixiu into a moment of doubt. With a swift decision, he led his people to sidestep, clearing a path for Yun Xiao.

    "You...!" Huyan Pin''s face paled slightly at the sight. Known for her ferocity, even she found Lian Xi''s beast-like momentum daunting and, with gritted teeth, she too stepped aside, her face turning a shade lighter.

    "Miss Pin!" Song Bomei, previously unflustered, now felt a wave of panic as those before him fled.

    Fortunately, Lian Xi wasn''t after him and cleared a path instead. But it was Yun Xiao who approached Song Bomei, his Sovereign Sword at the ready, turning the atmosphere tense.

    Liu Yingying, not far from Song Bomei, was petrified, her beauty marred by fear as she cried out, "Lian Xi, what are you doing?"

    Before she could finish, Yun Xiao''s sword underfoot transformed into a Palm Sword, pointing directly at Song Bomei.

    "You''re nothing but a paper tiger," Song Bomei sneered, unafraid of Yun Xiao though wary of Lian Xi.

    With a smirk, he clutched the Life-Burning Queen Gu in one hand and summoned his cial Sword Soul with the other. The liquid-like de brought a sudden chill, encircling him with a protective cial stream.

    "Seeking your own demise?" Song Bomei''s face wasyered with frost, his Early Sacred Wheel Realm cultivation dwarfed anyone in the Genesis Spirit Realm.

    With a flick of his wrist, his Palm Sword technique, Icebound Forest, burst forth, turning into a forest of des.

    The cial Sword Soul dissipated into rain and sshed into hundreds of droplets that elongated into a forest of ice swords, thrusting towards Yun Xiao.

    "Nice swordy. It''s mine now," Yun Xiao dered, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul also morphing into a liquid state, forming a blue cier. With a tremor, it sent out thousands of droplets that instantly turned into an evenrger forest of ice swords,unching a counterattack.

    "What in the world..." Song Bomei was dumbfounded.

    How did this young man master the swordy of the Clearcreek Manor, and with such magnitude?

    In this lightning-fast moment, Song Bomei had no time to adapt, left with no choice but to sh swords head-on.

    In a sh of steel, the duel was decided. Yun Xiao''s sword, swift and merciless, left Song Bomei a hand shorter, the severed limb hitting the ground with a sickening thud.

    "AGHHHH!" Song Bomei''s scream pierced the air as he stumbled back, clutching the bloody stump where his arm used to be, his eyes locked in disbelief on Yun Xiao. He remembered, clear as day, that Yun Xiao wasn''t this formidable just the night before.

    "My hand!" Song Bomei''s face went ashen as he stared at his hand lying on the ground, with Yun Xiao standing ominously close.

    "Yun Xiao! How dare you maim someone from our sacrednds!" Huyan Pin was livid.

    But with Lian Xi by Yun Xiao''s side and the elders unmoved, she held her ground.

    Yun Xiao spared her a cold nce and, with a flick of his sword, lifted a white jade worm from the severed hand for all to see. The elders gasped, recognizing the Life-Burning Queen Gu.

    "See this?" Yun Xiao''s gaze swept across the crowd just as a horde of frenzied neers burst from the Demon Prison, their bodies oozing and bleeding.

    With a swift motion, Yun Xiao skewered the Queen Gu and Song Bomei''s hand together. The death of the white worm extinguished the life-burning curse, leaving the afflicted neers copsing, frothing at the mouth but alive, their boils receding.

    Relieved at this turn of events, Yun Xiao rxed. But not everyone shared his calm.

    Song Ze took a step back, his eyes wide with disbelief at Yun Xiao. He couldn''t fathom how this young upstart had shattered the Demon Prison''s gate.

    Clearly, Yun Xiao wasn''t supposed to be capable of such a feat.

    "A life-burning curse? Everyone but Yun Xiao was afflicted?"

    "It seems someone aimed to kill Yun Xiao in the Demon Prison!"

    The crowd, no fools, quickly caught on.

    "Had Yun Xiao not broken out and killed the Queen Gu, he and the others would''ve died in there, with no trace of the perpetrator..."

    "Who would be so cruel?"

    Suspicion fell on Song Ze, leading the group, and Song Bomei, from the same Clearcreek Manor, who was in control of the Queen Gu.

    "Sir Song..." Liu Yingying was nearly breathless with fear, herplexion ghostly pale. She looked at Song Bomei, once a lofty prince used to belittle Yun Xiao, now reduced to a figure of pity.

    In a sh, Yun Xiao was in Song Bomei''s face, gripping his cor.

    "What do you want?" Despite losing an arm, Song Bomei''sposure remained, his gaze icy.

    "Who''s behind this?" Yun Xiao demanded coldly.

    "Ha, who are you to me that I should report to you?" Song Bomei scoffed.

    Yun Xiao nodded towards Huyan Pin. "I bested Huyan Luost night, and The Mysterious Mansion couldn''t bear the shame. The Life Burning Gu came from her, right?"

    "Don''t tter yourself. You''re not worthy of Miss Pin''s attention. This was all my doing!" Song Bomei dered, chin held high in disdain.

    "Are you serious?" Yun Xiao''s grip tightened around his Heaven Burial Sword Soul.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Trying to frame Miss Pin? Ridiculous!" Song Bomei appealed to the elders, "I admit my fault and request to be taken to the Mystic Zenith Temple for judgment. I also request that my parents be brought along for a joint trial."

    "Granted!" Several teachers stood, one addressing Yun Xiao, "You''ve done a great service today by exposing this treachery."

    "And?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "The Academy may consider admitting you as a special case, even directly as a Level 2 Ren disciple," the teacher stated, then added, "Now release Song Bomei. He will face judgment from the Mystic Zenith Temple."

    The Mystic Zenith Temple, the Academy''sw enforcement, derived its name from the Mystic Earth Immortal and Human Zenith Immortal.

    "Did you hear that?" Song Bomei sneered, "Let go of me now! Stay away from me!"

    Uncle River tightened his lips and weighed in, "Yun Xiao, the Mystic Zenith Temple will handle his judgment."

    Around that time, the kids, including Yue Molin, starteding to their senses, catching snippets of the confrontation. Yue Molin, in a daze, uttered a word, his gaze fixed on Yun Xiao.

    "You''re nothing but a nobody now, not even a disciple of the Primordial Ruins Academy. Let go!" Song Bomei taunted with a sneer.

    Yun Xiao gave him a look, a hint of amusement in his eyes, and chuckled before his swordshed out.

    In a swift move, Yun Xiao''s sword grazed Song Bomei''s face. Song Bomei''sughter was cut short as the upper part of his head, split at the mouth, soared through the air.

    Liuying caught the severed head half and screamed, hurling it away before tumbling to the ground in a frantic escape.

    Song Bomei, now reduced to a torso and a fragment of his head, stood frozen beside Yun Xiao.

    "Go to hell!" With a kick, Yun Xiao sent him crashing into Huyan Pin, dusting off his hands afterward.

    "Yun Xiao!!" Huyan Pin, pushing Song Bomei''s body away, red at the white-d youth, her eyes zing with fury, and then sheughed¡ªa chilling, scornfulugh.

    "You''ve overstepped your bounds!" she dered, herughter echoing through the sudden silence.

    The teachers stood up, and the prodigies from the Pathseeker Society took deep breaths, rallying around Huyan Pin.

    "And now?" Yun Xiao flicked the blood off his Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "You''re not even a disciple here; you have no right to pass judgment!" Huyan Pin retorted coldly.

    "Should I have waited for his parents to pull some strings and get him out?" Yun Xiao countered.

    Tian Zhixiu stepped forward, solemnly adding, "The Primordial Ruins is a ce ofw, where justice is served through due process. Disciplinary actions against students should be a coborative effort between the Academy and Mystic Zenith Temple. Your unteral action constitutes a transgression."

    "Right!" The others from the Academy stood behind Tian Zhixiu, their stares icy.

    "Yourws? Crafted by you, for you," Yun Xiao shot back.

    "Nonsense!" Tian Zhixiu maintained a calm demeanor, insisting, "Listen well! If you''re not a disciple, killing a direct descendant of the Human Zenith Ruins makes you fair game for extermination by any of the three ruins, no justification needed. And even as a disciple, your crime now subjects you to the custody and judgment of both the Academy and Mystic Zenith Temple, to provide a clear answer to the entire Academy."

 Chapter 404: Guilty Verdict!

    Chapter 404: Guilty Verdict!

    Yun Xiao nced at Tian Zhixiu with a look that could chill hearts.

    Tian Zhixiu was a big fish in the Primordial Ruins'' pond, about the same age as Yuan Wu but with the cultivation to put Yuan Wu to shame. He had an aura of decay about him, like he''d been flirting with death, likely meaning he was in the Early Five Decays Realm.

    When Tian Zhixiu spoke, his voice was as steady, but with an undertone that implied he wasn''t to be trifled with. Behind him, the talented descendants of the Three True Immortals and academy students of the three ruins were giving Yun Xiao the kind of look usually reserved for an unruly dog.

    It was clear as a bell; they were all about putting Yun Xiao in his ce, an outsider who didn''t y by their stringentws.

    Yun Xiao simply cracked a smile and pointed at the teachers. "Didn''t they say I did a great service exposing this treachery? By destroying the Life-Burning Gu and saving over a hundred lives, I became qualified to be a Level 2 Ren disciple on the spot."

    Tian Zhixiu didn''t fuss over the details. "Fine, you''re one of us now, so you y by our rules. We''re hauling you off to the Mystic Zenith Temple until thew decides what to do with you."

    The message was as clear as daylight¡ªto them, Yun Xiao was undoubtedly in the wrong for ying judge, jury, and executioner. The way they saw it, he was doomed no matter what. So, it didn''t matter what choice he made right now. In fact, letting him choose was showing fairness in their eyes.

    "A guilty verdict already, huh?" Yun Xiao shot back with a look of disgust. "I saved over a hundred people and offed a viin. By my math, I''m ahead. This whole circus saw what went down. So, you haul me off to the Mystic Zenith Temple, what then? What crime have Imitted?"

    Tian Zhixiu gave a smirk that could slice through ice. "The Temple''s got its ways of sorting things out that''ll make a believer out of you. No use arguing with me. Juste along."

    Huyan Pin couldn''t help but snicker from the sidelines, her words dripping with sarcasm, "Really thought you could sh that pretty face around, hide behind Lian Xi''s favor, and run amok in the sacred halls of the Primordial Academy?"

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    Her jab was a two-fer, skewering Yun Xiao and taking a not-so-subtle dig at Lian Xi''s tastes.

    Lian Xi''s eyes turned icy, her frustration biting at her lip enough to show a hint of fang. "Should I¡­?"

    "It''s fine, let''s just go with them," Yun Xiao said, the calm in his voice like the eye of a storm.

    Lian Xi nodded, her mind racing for a way out. Though they called it an escort, with her there, the academy''s enforcers wouldn''t dare get handsy.

    Here was Yun Xiao, a hero who''d saved lives, now paraded as a criminal for a so-called moment of madness. The disciples who''d seen it all unfold were a mix of emotions, their hearts a tangled mess.

    "Brother Yun!" Yue Molin struggled to his feet, reaching for Yun Xiao as he passed by, a desperate grab at his sleeve.

    The rescued neers, now clued into the truth, watched Yun Xiao with tearful eyes, their hearts heavy with gratitude and sorrow.

    "Thank you for saving us," Yue Molin said, his young eyes swimming with tears.

    "It''s what I do," Yun Xiao replied with a gentle smile.

    Then, with a sudden seriousness, Yue Molin asked, "But why did you have to kill C?"

    Yun Xiao''s voice took on a weight, as if carrying the burdens of the world. "Because I was born to challenge the rules and the powerful. That''s my mission." With another smile and a reassuring pat on Yue Molin''s shoulder, he added, "But that''s just me. Don''t try to learn from my example. You''ll die."

    "Mission..." By the time Yue Molin snapped back to reality, Yun Xiao had already left the academy''s front gates, trailing behind the solemn procession of the academy''s enforcers.

    "Take a breather. We''ll continue the third round, the Demon Prison, tomorrow. Best of luck," Uncle River announced, rising to his feet.

    "Got it!" Yue Molin and the others nodded, their eyes lingering on the path Yun Xiao had taken, wishing they could speak up for him. But deep down, they knew their voices were but whispers in a storm, unlikely to sway any oues.

    "Also, detain Song Ze for questioning," Uncle River dered with an icy edge.

    Song Ze took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and resigned himself to his fate.

    As the crowd of onlookers dispersed, some already buzzing about heading to the temple to catch the next act of the drama, Uncle River squatted by the Demon Prison gate, lost in thought.

    "That kid, breaking through the Demon Prison gate... he''s got some tricks up his sleeve."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On the road, the enforcers led the way, casting cold nces back now and then. Yun Xiao and Lian Xi followed a few steps behind.

    "Once we''re in the temple, they''ll call the shots. I''m worried they''ll lock you up somewhere dangerous," Lian Xi said, her voice tinged with anxiety.

    In contrast, Yun Xiao seemed to take it all in stride, leisurely taking in the scenery of the academy before pointing ahead. "We''ll be passing by the Primordial Pagoda, right?"

    "Yes," Lian Xi gritted her teeth, frustration evident in her voice. "These folks from the Three Immortal Lineages are really getting on my nerves!"

    "Three Immortal Lineage?" Yun Xiao inquired, the curiosity clear in his voice.

    Lian Xi shot him a look, her lips pursed in a pout. "I''m about to tell you something important, but you have to promise not to talk about it openly."

    Yun Xiao rolled his eyes, "Come on, I''m your right-hand man, aren''t I?"

    With a reluctant sigh, Lian Xi said, "These people from the Three Immortal Lineages are the descendants of the Three True Immortals. They''ve been creeping into the Primordial Academy over the centuries, snagging all the top spots. The Mystic Zenith Temple, that''s their fortress, where they love to y the me game, squeezing out anyone who doesn''t abide by their rules. The Academy''s turned from a ce of learning and legacy into their personal power yground. Many good teachers and venerable elders have been dragged through the mud, their reputations shot, and some even got the axe."

    "Not surprising," Yun Xiao nodded, his voice carrying a hint of expected disdain.

    "The Pathseeker Society is basically theirpdog brigade. Don''t underestimate these students; they''re pros at slinging mud and pinning me. Take Huyan Pin, her teacher was part of the Academy Faction, a great teacher I can personally vouch for. The Mystic Zenith Temple had him executed on some trumped-up charges of misconduct. Sure, they had so-called <em>evidence</em>, but there''s too much they can manipte behind the scenes," Lian Xi concluded, her lips puckering in frustration. "So, bumping heads with them today is going to be a real headache."

    "A real pain," Yun Xiao agreed, his tone resigned yet resolute.

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    He had a clear picture now. The Primordial Academy was a battleground between the Three Immortals Lineage and the Academy Faction, thetter being the true bearers of the Primordial Academy''s legacy, a mix of ancient inheritors and fresh talents from across the lower worlds.

    Dean Yu and Uncle River were likely from the Academy Faction, with Lian Xi firmly on their side, while the Mystic Zenith Temple and Pathseeker Society were chock-full of the Three True Immortals'' progeny and their cronies.

    And outside the academy? Well, that was the Three True Immortals'' yground.

    "Stepping into the Mystic Zenith Temple''s going to be a minefield. Should I get my master involved?" Lian Xi pondered, worry creasing her brow.

    Yun Xiao shook his head, a light chuckle escaping his lips. "Can''t be running to her for every little snag, can I? That''d be a bit embarrassing."

    "So, what''s the game n?" Lian Xi pouted, her frustration palpable.

    Looking up, a spark of determination in his eyes, Yun Xiao announced, "We''ve reached the Primordial Pagoda."

    "The Primordial Pagoda at a time like this?" Lian Xi couldn''t wrap her head around it. Why was Yun Xiao concerned about the Primordial Pagoda now?

    "Yep." Suddenly, Yun Xiao wrapped an arm around her, whispering in her ear, "The Primordial Academy''s Level 7 Ding disciples and above have the right to receive bail three times, right?"

    "Yes, but¡­" Lian Xi was initially puzzled, then her eyes lit up with realization and delight. "I see what you''re plotting. You''re thinking of sneaking into the Primordial Pagoda to bump yourself up to a Level 7 Ding disciple?"

    "Exactly," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Level 7 Ding disciples can indeed avoid being locked up in the Mystic Zenith Temple during the investigation period. But how did you know this?" Lian Xi asked, curious.

    "There was a disciple''s handbook on your desk. I took a quick readst night," Yun Xiao said with a slight smile. "What, you thought I was just a pretty face? No, ma''am. I''m bold but cautious. I took them on right in front of their eyes, and they couldn''t touch me."

    "That crafty, huh?" Lian Xi remarked, her expression suddenly darkening again. "But wait, even if you''re not in the Mystic Zenith Temple during the investigation, if they decide against you, you''d still be punished. And if they sentence you to death¡­"

    "How long is the minimum investigation period?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Going through the investigation and evidence collection takes at least five days," Lian Xi exined.

    "The Mystic Zenith Temple sure is thorough, making everything seem all official and by-the-book," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "It''s their way of promoting justice and strictness, giving everyone five days to prove their innocence," Lian Xi said.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "You''ve got it wrong. It''s to give their own people a five-day window to clear their names or cook up fake evidence," Yun Xiao stated coolly.

    It wasn''t hard to see through their schemes.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t care less about the nitty-gritty of the Mystic Zenith Temple''s trials. He had one clear goal in mind¡ªbe a Level 7 Ding disciple, and he''d have the run of the Primordial Ruins for five days before the trial, without a jail cell in sight, as long as he didn''t flee from the ruins.

    "But what can you do in five days?" Lian Xi fretted.

    "To others, it might be a blink of an eye, but for me, it''s an eternity," Yun Xiao quipped with a grin.

    "Are you saying you''re miserable with me? That time drags?" Lian Xi feigned anger.

    "Absolutely."

    "Ugh, you''re awful!" she yfully threatened to scratch him.

    Meanwhile, they frolicked at the back of the crowd, a stark contrast to the somber faces of the Pathseeker Society geniuses ahead. ncing back, their expressions darkened further at the sight.

    "Has he lost his mind? Facing death and still making a spectacle of himself?" Huyan Pin sneered.

    Tian Zhixiu''s eyes flickered ominously, but he remained silent.

    As they passed the bustling entrance of the Primordial Pagoda, the crowd, already abuzz with the tales of Yun Xiao''s daring deeds and controversies, watched in confusion. Here he was, about to be detained, yet cavorting openly with the goddess of many a disciple''s dreams?

    They couldn''t make heads or tails of it.

    "You know," Lian Xi''s voice carried a hint of mncholy, "the first eight floors of the Primordial Pagoda test purebat strength, and I can only reach the eighth. To be a Level 7 Ding disciple, you need to reach the fifth, which demands thebat strength of the Late Sacred Wheel Realm. Can you manage?"

    "I''ll fight and cultivate as I go," Yun Xiao responded nonchntly.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "To others, it might be a blink of an eye, but for me, it''s an eternity," Yun Xiao quipped with a grin.

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    "Are you saying you''re miserable with me? That time drags?" Lian Xi feigned anger.

    "Absolutely."

    "Ugh, you''re awful!" she yfully threatened to scratch him.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 405: You Killed Chen Xi!

    Chapter 405: You Killed Chen Xi!

    In a ce like the Primordial Academy where the ranks of disciples were as clear as day, being a Level 7 Ding disciple meant you were sitting pretty near the top of the heap, only three ces away from the very top.

    Lian Xi was in a league of her own, the sole Level 10 Jia disciple!

    Even Huyan Pin, a descendent of the Three True Immortals, was only a Level 7 Ding disciple.

    "Alright," Lian Xi said, her heart in a twist over it but betting it all on this one y.

    Five more days on the clock!

    "Just chuck me in there," Yun Xiao told her, dead serious.

    The rules inside the Primordial Pagoda were strict; no brawling, which meant once Yun Xiao was in, all the members of the Pathseeker Society had to cool their heels outside.

    "Brace yourself!" Lian Xi might''ve looked like a breeze could knock her over, but she had the strength of a beast. Grabbing Yun Xiao''s hand, she swung him around andunched him like a human cannonball!

    "Damn, that''s fast!" Yun Xiao was practically flying, hair swept back by the wind, moving faster than if he''d taken his own Sovereign Sword for a spin.

    In a sh, he was inside the Primordial Pagoda, facing the first of his challenges.

    This whole scene had the crowd of disciples watching gobsmacked.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The group of Pathseeker Society members up ahead spun around, staring down Lian Xi with serious faces.

    "What''s this? Trying to dodge your dues only makes things worse," Huyan Pin said with a chill in her voice.

    "He''s not running. He''s just taking a scenic route through the Primordial Pagoda," Lian Xi shot back.

    One of the onlookers, a thinker among them, mused for a moment before saying, "He''s aiming for Level 7 Ding to grant himself bail."

    "Level 7 Ding? Someone in the Genesis Spirit Realm thinking he can break through to the fifth floor of the Primordial Pagoda?" Huyan Pin fixed her gaze on the pagoda, where Yun Xiao had already made his entrance.

    "Let''s wait and see. He''s just a cornered dog, won''t make it far," a young man in ckmented.

    "An hour, tops," added a beautiful young woman.

    "Indeed," Huyan Pin slowly lifted her gaze to the fifth floor of the Primordial Pagoda, her voice cold as ice, "But I''m not about to give this dog a chance to leap over the wall."

    "So, what''s the big n?" Tian Zhixiu asked, his eyes fixed on her.

    "The fifth floor of the Primordial Pagoda is where the real test happens, guarded by an examiner decked out in Primordial Armor to block any hopeful challengers," Huyan Pin exined with a hint of a smirk.

    "You''re nning to y gatekeeper, huh? Even if he makes it to the fifth floor, you''re gonna chop him down?" Tian Zhixiu prodded further.

    "A piece of cake," Huyan Pin replied with a coldugh.

    "But you''re not exactly qualified to be an examiner, are you?" another girl piped up.

    Huyan Pin shot her a re that could freeze the soul. "My sword''s all the qualification I need."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    With that, she marched into the Primordial Pagoda, heading straight for the fifth floor.

    "Yun Xiao''s aiming for the fifth floor of the Primordial Pagoda, and Huyan Pin''s out for blood!"

    The news spread like wildfire.

    Groups of academy disciples, faces grim, gathered to watch the showdown unfold. They didn''t speak, jeer, or take sides. They just watched with bated breath, eyes wide open.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Primordial Pagoda''s first floor, Yun Xiao wandered into one of the thousand challenge rooms at random, finding himself in a sealed chamber. The walls were stark white, but on the wall right in front of him hung a painting.

    In that painting, a white tiger with piercing eyes sat enthroned like an emperor, looking down on Yun Xiao with a gaze that could send shivers down anyone''s spine.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As soon as Yun Xiao stepped in, the Primordial Pagoda started to shake, and the sound of tiger roars filled the air around him.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The shaking grew more intense by the second.

    "What''s with all the racket?" Yun Xiao wondered, feeling something was off. "This is bound to attract a lot of attention outside."

    But what he didn''t realize was that from the outside, the Primordial Pagoda stood silent and still.

    "Yun Xiao!" Just then, a roaring voice came from within.

    Yun Xiao paused for a moment before pulling out a tiny object. It was a diminutive white bell, adorned with the patterns of a white tiger.

    "A grapefruit?" Yun Xiao mumbled to himself, staring at it.

    The white tiger red back, roaring, "You took down Chen Xi with your own hands, you''re not getting off easy!"

    As it bellowed, the Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell trembled, and so did the Primordial Pagoda, as if they were kin.

    "I..." Taking a deep breath, Yun Xiao stashed the Heavenly Realm Primordial Bell in his Bag of Holding.

    Suddenly, a fierce white tiger appeared before him, growling and baring its teeth before lunging at him! This was no illusion, nor a demon tiger, but a celestial puppet. It was the first test of the Primordial Pagoda.

    <em>KLANG! </em>As the white tiger pounced, Yun Xiao executed a slick slide, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul piercing its heart with deadly precision.

    "Ugh..." The scene eerily reminded him of the moment he pierced Chen Xi''s heart, causing his own to skip a beat.

    "It''s just an incarnation of transcending cmity from the Primordial Immortal Ancestor, why fret?" Blue Star remarked.

    "Got it." Yun Xiao took another deep breath.

    "You''ve passed the first level; proceed to the second," a voice announced.

    Yun Xiao approached the staircase and ascended. On the second floor of the Primordial Pagoda, there were ten celestial puppet tigers. No sweat. The third floor featured a hundred of them. Still a walk in the park! On the fourth floor, he faced a thousand celestial puppet tigers. Now that was a steep climb in difficulty!

    He plunged into the fray, his sword rising and falling in deadly arcs,ying waste to the tigers around him. Watching each tiger fall, then looking back at him with those peculiar eyes, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but feel a bit somber.

    He knew these puppets had no life in their eyes. The gaze he saw was Chen Xi''s, haunting him with the memory of his sword piercing her heart.

    "After the fourth floor, it''s not tigers anymore, right?" Yun Xiao inquired, having conquered the fourth floor.

    A young man in blue replied, "The fifth floor pits you against an examiner d in Primordial Armor."

    "Thanks!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Good luck, Yun Xiao."

    "Hanging onto Lian Xi''s coattails, shouldn''t I be universally scorned by now?" Yun Xiao cracked a joke.

    "In the real world, there are no set patterns. Everyone sees with their own eyes," the young man in blue said with a smile, pointing to his eyes.

    "Fair point." Yun Xiao bowed slightly and continued upwards.

    "Just in from outside. Rumor has it Huyan Pin shooed away the actual examiner and donned her own set of Primordial Armor," the young man in blue called after him.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao paused. He stood still, pondering his next move.

    "Getting cold feet?" the young man in blue prodded.

    "Not at all." Yun Xiao took a deep breath, absorbing the Immortal energy around him, and smiled, "My opponent''s a bit tricky. Might as well break through another level before I face her."

    The young man in blue was left speechless.

    Ten breathster, Yun Xiaopleted his breakthrough to the Mid Genesis Spirit Realm and turned to ascend further.

    Watching his retreating figure, the young man in bluepsed into deep thought, finally chuckling, "The fifth level''s already being broadcasted. Put on a good show, brother."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Down at the base of the pagoda, there was a sea of people. Though the crowd was thick, no one dared approach the central spot where the members of the Pathseeker Society and Lian Xi stood.

    The events of the fifth level of the Primordial Pagoda were unfolding right before their eyes.

    Then, two figures descended among them.

    To the left stood a man in a ck and gold robe, his presence formidable, his gaze piercing and mysterious.

    To the right was a woman in a silver robe, appearing slightly younger than the man despite being of a simr age. Her beauty was stark, her demeanor cold as ice, warding off strangers.

    Tian Zhixiu hurriedly led the young ones to pay their respects, "Greetings to the Mysterious Sword Manor Master and Dharma Crown Qin."

    The Manor Master, Huyan Pin''s father, stood imposingly.

    Dharma Crown Qin, in her silver robe with a circle adorned on the back, represented the Mystic Zenith Temple.

    "Did my daughter go up?" the Manor Master asked.

    Tian Zhixiu pointed upwards. "The two have already encountered each other."

 Chapter 406: Whose is Bigger?

    Chapter 406: Whose is Bigger?

    Yun Xiao stepped into the fifth floor of the Primordial Pagoda with the ease of a catnding on soft ground. The ce was spacious, a change from the cramped quarters before, with only one challenge room waiting to test his mettle.

    "You''re pretty quick, aren''t you?" a cold voice greeted him.

    Yun Xiao turned towards the source,ying eyes on a figure that was a walking contradiction. A tall girl stood there, armored from head to toe in a battle gear that was as white as snow on a moonlit night.

    This wasn''t just any armor; it was a masterpiece adorned with the ferocious patterns of white tigers, each piece telling a story of raw power and the untamed wild. The chest te boasted a white tiger in mid-roar, so lifelike you''d think twice before approaching.

    This armor, with its cold light and aura of destion, was clearly not your run-of-the-mill gear. It was a top-tier treasure, its presence alone dominating the room.

    And there she stood, this warrior maiden, her figure both graceful and menacing, like a snow leopard poised for the kill. Her helmet hid eyes that radiated lethality, her gaze so piercing it could freeze you in your tracks.

    Yun Xiao recognized that frosty face, and with it, the realization dawned on him. She had indeed interfered with the test for the fifth floor of the Primordial Pagoda. It was Huyan Pin!

    Outside the pagoda, the buzz of the crowd seeped in, a mix of anticipation and debate. They were all eager to see who woulde out on top in this sh of titans. As to whom they favored, that remained a mystery.

    Most were vocal in their support for Huyan Pin, drawn to her fiery spirit and undeniable dominance. Yun Xiao, the neer, was still an enigma to them.

    As he stood before her, Huyan Pin''s icy demeanor melted away, reced by a solemn air. She summoned her Sword Soul, transforming it into a Palm Sword with a flourish.

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    In her grip materialized a ck greatsword, four feet in length and as wide as a man''s palm, its hilt crowned with a golden sun no bigger than a coin. This was her sword''s essence, shining brightly, lending the de an otherworldly aura.

    Her Sword Soul was a reflection of her¡ªproud, cold, and ruthlessly dominant.

    "The Condemner, a Lower Yang grade Sword Soul."<strong></strong>Huyan Pin''s lips curled into a slight smile, a prelude to the storm that was about to unfold.

    A Yang grade Sword Soul was an Emperor among Sword Souls, a testament to her prowess. Her introduction wasn''t just idle chatter; it was a calcted move, a psychological attack aimed at unsettling Yun Xiao.

    As she fondled the hefty ck sword, seven thick Sword Rings emerged, each unleashing a spectral demon, theirbined might bearing down on Yun Xiao like a suffocating wave.

    "Did you know?" Huyan Pin continued. "Five Cmities Realm Demons possess the power of natural disasters. That''s why these Sword Rings are called Cmity Sword Rings. They''re powerful enough to allow a Sword Cultivator in the Sacred Wheel Realm to challenge a master in the Five Decays Realm."

    With each stroke of her hand, the ferocity of the seven demons was ignited, unleashing a maelstrom of elemental fury.

    The crowd outside the pagoda erupted in admiration at her disy of power, with whispers of congrattions for the Mysterious Sword Manor Master already floating in the air.

    "Done with the introductions?" Yun Xiao''s voice cut through the tension, his arm extending as his Sword Soul morphed into a three-foot-long azure de, as elegant as it was lethal.

    A storm of 300,000yers of Sword Aura swirled around him, his white robe and ck hair dancing in the tempest, his divine presence undeniable.

    Huyan Pin''sugh, short and mocking, was a clear challenge.

    This was the Primordial Ruins, the domain of the Three True Immortals, where no one dared defy the celestial order.

    "To grant you even a moment more is to spheme the Three True Immortals!" she dered, her lithe figureunching forward like a tempest, her sword cutting through the air with the force of a mountain cleaving strike.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze remained unflinching as his azure de met her greatsword''s attack, shing with the force of colliding titans.

    Huyan Pin was in the Late Sacred Wheel Realm, with three sacred wheels rotating behind her, driving her sacred power with the force of a surging torrent! Her Condemner Sword Soul was unstoppable.

    However, Yun Xiao''s counter was swift and precise, his de vibrating as he was sent spiraling through the air, executing a perfect thirty rotations before lightly touching down, as if he were merely skipping stones across a pond.

    "Well, there''s a clear gap between the Mid Genesis Spirit Realm and the Late Sacred Wheel Realm in terms of sheer power," Yun Xiao mused, his casual counterattack more of a litmus test than anything.

    But to the onlookers outside, that first exchange, where Huyan Pin nearly steamrolled over him, was like a bucket of cold water on their heads. Then, the murmurs began.

    "Hell, that Yun Xiao really had me fooled. I actually thought for a second that he could take on Huyan Pin!"

    "We''ve been scammed!"

    "I guess all Lian Xi cares about is looks¡­ Ah, my poor naive goddess."

    It was almostical how quickly some of the crowd was to jump to conclusions, especially when they were scared of being proven wrong.

    "He''s only in the Genesis Spirit Realm, too weak," said Dharma Crown Qin, the woman in the silver robe, as if she''d seen this y out a thousand times.

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    "Without the foundation of sacred power from the Sacred Wheel Realm, all the fancy moves in the world don''t amount to anything," the Manor Master added, hisughter light but loaded.

    Their words were like a match to tinder, sparking smug grins among their disciples.

    Inside the pagoda, Huyan Pin was quicklying to her own conclusions about Yun Xiao''s strength. "A tough Sword Aura, but the guy wielding it might as well be a wet noodle," she thought, her battle spirit waning but her intent to kill sharpening by the second.

    "Think you can get away with murder here?" Yun Xiao suddenly piped up, his casual demeanor a stark contrast to the tension in the air.

    "If I kill you, it''s justice. If you kill me, it''s your family''s doom," Huyan Pin shot back, her voice as cold as the steel she wielded, her boots thudding against the pagoda''s floor as she charged.

    The pagoda itself seemed to quake under her fury as she leaped in the air, her Condemner Sword Soul glowing like the dawn''s first light. The seven Cmity Sword Rings screeched, spinning into a whirlwind of demon magic around her de, culminating in a tempest of terror.

    <em>Palm Sword Technique, Divine Radiance of the World!</em>

    This technique was passed down only to Mysterious Sword Manor Masters! She brought the full force of her greatsword''s tyranny and ferocity to bear. The de zed like a golden sun, hurtling through the air, only to crash down in a devastating arc aimed straight at Yun Xiao.

    The crowd was a mixed bag of emotions, some gloating, some silent.

    However, Yun Xiao waspletely calm, not a flicker of change in his expression. The Prison Warden Life Sigil on his forehead transformed into a majestic nine-headed dragon, their forms etching dragon patterns all over him, a sight to behold.

    This wasn''t just for show; the dragons boosted his power significantly.

    As Huyan Pin''s ferocious attack came barreling down, Yun Xiao sidestepped with the ease of a leaf on the wind and unleashed a barrage of thunderous fire dragons from his palm.

    Their roars filled the air, overshadowing half the Primordial Pagoda''s fifth floor and colliding with Huyan Pin''s sword with a force that sent sparks flying.

    "He''s really a sigil and sword dual cultivator?!" Huyan Pin''s confidence wavered.

    The explosion of the thunderous fire dragons not only countered her strike but sent her flying, her armor scraping across the floor, sparks in its wake.

    Huyan Pin''s eyes widened in shock, then narrowed in rage. "ying possum, huh? That''s a trick I ditched when I was three!" she scoffed, leaping back into action.

    The crowd was abuzz, the Manor Master and Dharma Crown Qin exchanging nces, both intrigued by Yun Xiao''s dual mastery of sword and sigil.

    "What''s this? My Lightning Prison Fire Dragon technique?" Lian Xi was dumbfounded, her worry turning to surprise as Yun Xiao seemingly pulled her signature move out of nowhere.

    As the pagoda seethed with excitement, Yun Xiao prepared his next move. Conjuring a six-foot Sovereign Sword, he stood atop it, ready for flight.

    "You wanted to see whose is bigger?" he quipped, a confident smile shing across his face. With a cold glint in his eyes and a forceful stomp, he shot forward on his sword, leaving everyone questioning what he was nning.

    Huyan Pin''sughter turned colder, her confidence unshaken even as Yun Xiao''s Sovereign Sword came hurtling towards her. To her, the direct approach of the Sovereign Swordcked the finesse of a Flying Sword or Palm Sword, ill-suited for a duel of this nature. She was ready to knock Yun Xiao off his high horse when her face went white with shock.

    "What the HELL?!" she gasped, her eyes widening as Yun Xiao''s sword burst into a radiant divine light, a tempest of azure Sword Aura swirling around it like a sun caught in a storm. It was a disy of wind, azure, and radiance, all in one.

    It was Huyan Pin''s own signature move, <em>Divine Radiance of the World</em>, but with a twist that left her and even the Mysterious Sword Manor Master ck-jawed in disbelief.

    "Impossible!" Huyan Pin''s heart skipped a beat. This technique, known for its bold and expansive strikes, was somehow even more formidable when executed with a six-foot Sovereign Sword.

    But it was the speed that truly caught her off guard. She barely had time to blink before the storm of Sword Aura was upon her, a fiery maelstrom threatening to engulf her.

    With a roar, she countered with her own Divine Radiance of the World, but it was toote. The sh sent her greatsword flying, and Yun Xiao''s massive de struck her squarely in the chest armor.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The impact was like a cannonball hitting a fortress, sending Huyan Pin flying like a ragdoll hit by a warhorse, her armor caving in, bones shattering in a gruesome disy.

    "NOOOOOO!" Red Moon wailed, covering his eyes from Yun Xiao''s robe. "Another source of milk in!"

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    Huyan Pin was sent crashing into the pagoda''s walls, blood spraying in all directions.

    In that moment, her eyes filled with disbelief, her face ashen, and the excruciating pain in her chest made it hard to even breathe, let alone scream.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om</blockquote>

 Chapter 407: Godly Debate Skills!

    Chapter 407: Godly Debate Skills!

    "YOU!" Huyan Pin red at Yun Xiao with a look that could pierce steel.

    Yun Xiao withdrew his six-foot Sovereign Sword, making it look as easy as stepping off a horse. In a blink, that Sovereign Sword shrank to a three-inch Flying Sword, neatly caught in his grasp.

    "Think using a Sovereign Sword for a Palm Sword technique is something? Well, feast your eyes on this." Yun Xiao, with a sly grin, flicked the Flying Sword into the air. That little de danced and darted, whipping up a mini storm, an azure tempest in the shape of the sun!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>A single swipe, and Huyan Pin had new, bloody decorations on her limbs, her bones shattered, blood spurting like fountains.

    "Ugh..." Huyan Pin hit the ground hard, gasping for air, her pretty face twisted in agony. Losing a fight was one thing, but this was a downright thrashing!

    There wasn''t a sound from outside the pagoda, meaning the onlookers, her own father included, had just had their faces and vocal cords neatly sliced by Yun Xiao''s surprise double feature!

    You could only imagine their faces, a picture of pure, unadulterated shock!

    "I...I..." Huyan Pin''s mind went nk. She''d never faced real danger in the Primordial Ruins, but now, she felt like jelly. Yet, the pride of being a descendant of the high and mighty Three True Immortals kept her heart from outright quitting on her.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>In a sh, Yun Xiao was right beside her, grabbing her by the cor and yanking her up.

    "Hahaha..." Huyan Pin let out augh.

    "What''s so funny?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Just waiting for you to drag me down, then kneel before my dad and beg for a light punishment," Huyan Pin chuckled.

    "Still dreaming, are you?" Yun Xiao quipped.

    Huyan Pin paused, then with a smirk, replied, "Yun Xiao, are you saying the Primordial Ruins, under the rule of the Three True Immortals, is all just a dream? That''s rich! Even Dean Yu wouldn''t dare touch me here. Believe it or not!"

    "Well, aren''t you the bold one?" Yun Xiao gave her a look, then suddenly pointed up and behind him, asking, "The projection source, it''s in that direction, right?"

    "So what if it is? My father''s on his way up!" Huyan Pin retorted with a frosty tone.

    "Let''s liven things up a bit," Yun Xiao said with a sudden grin.

    That grin sent a shiver through Huyan Pin''s pride.

    With a swift motion, Yun Xiao dragged her into the blind spot of the projection.

    "What do you think you''re doing? I''m an examiner. Lay a finger on me, and you''re in deeper trouble!" Huyan Pin snarled.

    "Are you daft? I''ve already killed Song Bomei. What''s one more charge when I''m facing the gallows in five days?"

    With those words, Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul pierced Huyan Pin''s belly and lodged into her spine.

    "Aaaaah!" Huyan Pin''s eyes bulged, her body convulsed in agony, her skin turned ashen, and sweat poured down her face.

    "Yun¡­ Your... Sword Soul..." In fear, misery, and despair, Huyan Pin looked at him. She couldn''t understand how her own Sword Aura was withering away while Yun Xiao''s seemed to grow.

    It was like a nightmaree to life.

    "The Three True Immortals will avenge me..." In her utmost agony, Huyan Pin grasped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul with trembling hands, her fingers smoking.

    With a flick of his wrist, Yun Xiao sliced through her fingers and, right before her eyes, attached the seven Cmity Sword Rings to his sword, one after another.

    "Much obliged." He smiled faintly.

    "No!" Huyan Pin wailed.

    With a thrust, Yun Xiao''s sword pierced through her throat.

    "Another disciple down." He sheathed his Sword Soul, grabbed Huyan Pin by the foot, and dragged her to the window of the Primordial Pagoda, tossing the body out from the fifth floor.

    With a st, blood sprayed in all directions.

    "Esteemed elders, this person, posing as an examiner without the credentials, audaciously attempted to ambush a neer just stepping into the academy. The malice in their heart is chilling to the bone! I believe it was clear to all present that she struck first, nearly sending me to my doom. My desperate resistance was purely in self-defense! I urge the Primordial Pagoda to beef up its security, so neers like myself aren''t trembling in fear!"

    After delivering his piece, Yun Xiao descended from the Primordial Pagoda, with Lian Xi catching him halfway down. Though a fierce figure herself, Lian Xi''s knees went weak seeing Yun Xiao''s bold yet meticulous approach.

    "From now on, you''ve got to stick by my side. Assassins and bounty hunters will be after you everywhere," Lian Xi expressed her concern.

    "As long as you''re in the right, there''s nothing to worry about by my side."

    "No worries, I''ve got a backup n," Yun Xiao reassured with a smile.

    "What''s a backup n?" Lian Xi asked, puzzled.

    Yun Xiao just smiled, keeping silent.

    In the next moment, they had stepped out of the Primordial Pagoda, and instantly, tens of thousands of sharp, sword-like gazes fell upon him. Among these were looks of anger, murderous intent, and admiration, but notably, no scorn. To scorn a killer of his caliber would be an insult to one''s own intelligence.

    The closest of these gazes, nearly piercing through Yun Xiao, belonged to figures like the Mysterious Sword Manor Master and Dharma Crown Qin, along with the fifty disciples from the Pathseeker Society, all with disdainfully white eyes¡ªa clear indication of their lineage as descendants of the Three True Immortals. For them, the whiteness of their eyes denoted their status, the whiter, the higher.

    At the Manor Master''s feety a pool of blood, his ck robe speckled with droplets. In that moment, his pale eyes were like vortices from hell, trapping Yun Xiao in their gaze.

    With a flick of his finger, suddenly, more than a hundred robed figures stood before Yun Xiao.

    The Manor Master''s Sword Soul flickered a third of its way out before retreating back into its sheath.

    "Manor Master," Lian Xi stepped forward and said in an even voice, "Yun Xiao made a fair point. Huyan Pin acted as an imposter, her intent to kill was clear, and she made the first move. He was merely defending himself."

    "Even so," Dharma Crown Qin interjected, her brow furrowed, "A life has been taken. It falls upon the Mystic Zenith Temple to investigate and judge. Your opinion, while valued, doesn''t change the need for truth and detail."

    "You''re correct," Lian Xi conceded with a nod. "Let the Mystic Zenith Temple investigate. I trust they will be just."

    "Take him away," Dharma Crown Qin ordered.

    "Wait!" Lian Xi pointed at Yun Xiao, "He''s earned the rank of a Level 7 Ding disciple, granting him the right to bail three times before having to face the temple."

    "He defeated an imposter, not a true examiner. How does that make him a Level 7 Ding disciple?" Dharma Crown Qin retorted coldly.

    "Oh?" Lian Xi smiled, blinking, "By that logic, you''re confirming that Huyan Pin was indeed an imposter. That''s settled then, and I trust the judgment will reflect this fact?"

    Dharma Crown Qin was momentarily speechless, outmaneuvered by a young girl. They had no desire to publicly admit the impersonation.

    The very foundation of the Mystic Zenith Temple was <emw</em> and <em>reason</em>, which Lian Xi has cleverly used to her advantage, backed by the silent support of the hundred robed figures behind her.

    Dharma Crown Qin was faced with a choice. Admit to yet another scandal and take Yun Xiao away, or deny it and leave empty-handed.

    "Take him away," the Manor Master said coldly. As Huyan Pin''s father, he publicly acknowledged the impersonation.

    "So, it''s settled," Dharma Crown Qin announced to the crowd. "Huyan Pin indeed posed as an examiner against the rules. So, Yun Xiao is not considered a Level 7 Ding disciple and may be apprehended."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Wait a minute!" Yun Xiao interrupted, "Many thanks for acknowledging Huyan Pin''s deception. But, imposter or not, I remain a Level 7 Ding disciple.

    "Nonsense," Dharma Crown Qin''s gaze turned icy.

    "No nonsense here," Yun Xiao retorted, pulling out the student handbook and pointing to a set of rules, "See this? The fifth floor of the Primordial Pagoda states that all I have to do is destroy the Primordial Armor. I did just that. Whether or not the person under that armor was a real examiner is irrelevant to my passing the floor."

    Dharma Crown Qin was speechless. Outsmarted by a neer in her own game!

    The crowd fell silent, their breaths held.

    The prodigies of the Pathseeker Society were seething! They were beaten inbat and outwitted in an argument by Yun Xiao!

    This was the Primordial Academy, not somewlessnd under the Three True Immortals'' influence. Without the upper hand in a public setting, one could only swallow their pride.

    "Let''s go, Lil Xi," Yun Xiao said, wrapping an arm around Lian Xi''s waist amidst the silence. He was off to cultivate and practice the sword, with his newfound privileges as a Level 7 Ding disciple.

    And there he was, ready to stroll out right in front of the Mysterious Sword Manor Master and Dharma Crown Qin.

    "What''s with the arrogance? You''ve only got five days left to live," someone from the Pathseeker Society sneered.

    Yun Xiao ignored them.

    "This guy''s always stirring trouble, then relying on women to clean up his messes. He''s going to be Lian Xi''s downfall," another voice chimed in.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle. What else could he do? It was a bit much to expect a man to do the cleaning, wasn''t it?

 Chapter 408: Three Immortals Scheming!

    Chapter 408: Three Immortals Scheming!

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi sauntered off, leaving the crowd with no reason to linger.

    The faces of the 10,000 disciples gathered twisted in confusion, unsure whether to apud Yun Xiao for his startling performances in the Mysterious Sword Manor, Enrollment Hall, and Primordial Pagoda, or to scoff at the fact that he only had five days to live regardless of how brilliant he was.

    "Might a man so bright, burn out just as quick?" a disciple wondered with a sigh.

    After all, on the grounds of the Primordial Ruins, no one could dodge the gavel of justice swung by the Mystic Zenith Temple, backed by the power of Three Immortals. Its verdicts could crush the high and low alike; escape was futile. So, the crowd mulled over Yun Xiao''sughter in the face of such grave danger...

    As the masses dispersed, the Mysterious Sword Manor Master, Dharma Crown Qin, and the talents of the Pathseeker Society stayed back, pondering the enigma that was Yun Xiao.

    "Have we dug into this guy''s past?" Dharma Crown Qin mused, breaking the silence with a nce at the Manor Master.

    "I wanted to do some digging, but <em>she</em> wanted to skip straight to the execution," the Manor Master replied, lips pursed.

    "Then, let''s do an investigation. Arrogance like that warrants scrutiny," Dharma Crown Qin said coldly, her expression full of grim austerity.

    "In the Primordial Ruins, what background could possibly outrank that of the direct descendants of the Three True Immortals?" the Manor Master wondered aloud.

    "It''s not the height of his background we fear, but the possibility of a cunning trapid by some crafty old fox," Dharma Crown Qin advised with caution.

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    "Fair point. Your move then," the Manor Master agreed, a storm of dark, sword-like intent brewing behind his steely gaze.

    "Consider it done," Dharma Crown Qin nodded, her expertise in intelligence gathering unparalleled.

    "Regardless, in five days, he''ll meet his end, right?" the Manor Master asked, eyeing Dharma Crown Qin.

    "He might not evenst that long," she replied coolly.

    "You''re talking about the Three Immortals Day?" the Manor Master said, a tempest of sword energy brewing in his eyes.

    "Right you are," Dharma Crown Qin said, nodding in solemn agreement.

    "And without Lian Xi to back him, Yun Xiao''s clever little tricks will only lead him to a sadder fate," said the Manor Master, ncing down at the lifeless form of his daughter.

    "Brace yourself; this is no small matter," Dharma Crown Qin advised earnestly.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Let''s go then." With a heavy heart, the Manor Master stooped to lift his daughter''s remains. The sight of her eyes, wide with terror and unseeing in death, twisted his face with grief. For a man of his stature to have his daughter cut down by an upstart, and to stand there, unable to avenge her on the spot... his rage was beyond words,pounded by the earlier loss of his son to a cruel twist of fate.

    Even the talents of the Pathseeker Society kept their distance, sensing the storm of fury within him.

    "Manor Master," Tian Zhixiu was the only one bold enough to approach, his gaze deep and resolute.

    "Zhixiu," the Manor Master replied, eyes closed in grief, "it''s time to put the pressure on the Academy Faction."

    "We''ll move in sync with the Three Immortals Day," Tian Zhixiu said, his eyes alight with an unyielding resolve.

    "The future," the Manor Master said, opening his eyes, "ultimately belongs to you young ones."

    "For the Three True Immortals, I pledge my life!" Tian Zhixiu vowed, gritting his teeth.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a hidden chamber deep within the Primordial Ruins, a figure in golden robes silently entered. It was none other than Yuan Zhantian, the former head of the Great Yuan Residence. His gaze was icy and his demeanor grave. The recent days had taken a heavy toll on him, dragging his spirits to the depths.

    "Brother Yuan," greeted a statuesque woman in flowing silver robes, her icy beauty and graceful poise hiding a formidable strength.

    "Dharma Crown Qin," Yuan Zhantian replied, his voice heavy, "I''ve just met with your brother."

    "I know. He was the bearer of the Immortal decree that led to your demotion," she stated inly.

    Yuan Zhantian offered a sheepish smile before inquiring, "My family has retreated into the shadows; what brings me the honor of your visit, Dharma Crown Qin?"

    Direct and to the point, the Dharma Crown Qin asked, "I''ve heard about the incident involving Yuan Xianjun, involving Zhang Qingwei and a young man in white, rumored to be skilled in both sword and sigil?"

    Upon hearing this, Yuan Zhantian nodded. "I understand the purpose of your visit. Yes, the young man in white is Yun Xiao, a prodigy from the Nine Hells. He even serves as the Conqueror there. He''s the same one who caused a mess in the Mysterious Sword Manor and the Primordial Pagoda. By allying with Lian Xi, he''s drawn out Dean Yu, leading to the downfall of my ancestor..."

    Dharma Crown Qin, intrigued, replied, "A mere mortal from a lower world causing such an uproar in just a day?"

    "Absolutely. All three of my sons encountered him in the Nine Hells, and my youngest was even assassinated by him," Yuan Zhantian''s eyes zed with vengeful fury. "Now, he thinks he''s safe in the Primordial Academy, unaware that it too will be our yground!"

    With a respectful bow, he added, "I trust the Mystic Zenith Temple to deliver swift justice and grant him a most grievous end. Our lineage excels in the art of nurturing Gu, each a cmity in its own right. Let him taste each one."

    "Judgment wille easy. Worry not," Dharma Crown Qin assured, her demeanor frosty.

    "Perhaps you suspect there''s more to thisd, nning a trip to the Nine Hells to unearth more, maybe capture a friend or two as leverage against any strong protection?" Yuan Zhantian asked softly.

    "You''ve hit the nail on the head," Dharma Crown Qin replied, her gaze chilling yet beguiling.

    Yuan Zhantian chuckled, then shook his head, "I considered that, but the Three True Immortals have forbidden any from entering the Nine Hells just half a day ago."

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    "Really?" Dharma Crown Qin was momentarily taken aback. "Seems the Three True Immortals have grand ns for the Nine Hells."

    "The actions of the Three True Immortals are beyond our mortalprehension," Yuan Zhantian said reverently.

    "Then, I''ll take my leave, with thanks," Dharma Crown Qin said.

    "To prevent any disturbances during the trial, it might be wise to keep a close eye on him," Yuan Zhantian suggested.

    With a coldugh, Dharma Crown Qin boasted, "Such younglings are mere ythings to me; I''ve toyed with more people than women he''s ever known."

    Yuan Zhantian was impressed, "Fitting for you, the Dharma Crown."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After the Level 7 Ding disciple incident, Yun Xiao became the center of attention in the Primordial Academy, overshadowing even Lian Xi. Wherever they went together, they attracted all sorts of looks.

    "The students here are quite admirable," Yun Xiao mused to himself.

    Despite many thinking his days were numbered until the trial, should they meet, they''d boldly greet Lian Xi and make acquaintance with Yun Xiao.

    They were all politeness and decorum, with not a hint of mockery, making even casual conversations seem surprisingly harmonious.

    Of course, what they truly thought in their hearts remained their own secret.

    "We''ve arrived at the Merit Arena," Lian Xi said.

    The pair, oozing with <em>tender affection</em>, had been soaking in the sights of the Primordial Academy and had now reached their next stop. The vastness of the academy''snds was truly a sight to behold, a nation within a nation if the Primordial Ruins were considered a country.

    The Merit Arena was a ce where daoist spells, swordsmanship, and many other secret techniques were passed down. It was the most popr spot in the academy, even more popr than the Primordial Pagoda itself.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see an arena shaped like a bird''s nest, circr, with a hollow center that seemed just the right size to fit the Primordial Pagoda if turned upside down.

    This was a ce Yun Xiao had been looking forward to visiting. As one ascended the path of immortality, the mysteries and secret arts became even moreplex and profound, containing insights into the immortal path that could greatly aid him.

    As this enviable pair of white figures approached the entrance of the Merit Arena, a group of people emerged to greet them.

    "Junior Sister?" The speaker was a young man in a crimson sword robe, towering over Yun Xiao by a head, with a presence as substantial as his stature suggested.

    His physique might suggest a brutish nature, yet his face was sharply chiseled, dignified, with a pair of crimson eyes that shimmered with fiery light, cutting quite the handsome figure.

    Apart from his striking appearance, what caught Yun Xiao''s attention was the me-patterned Qilin embroidered on his robe and the aura of someone who was flirting with the brink of life and death, suggesting he was in the Five Decays Realm.

    "Senior Brother Chi?" Lian Xi halted in her tracks.

    This youth, named Chi Yang, along with his entourage of talented juniors, quickly closed the distance to stand before Yun Xiao and Lian Xi.

    All eyes naturally drifted towards Yun Xiao, curious about the man who had won Lian Xi''s favor.

    "Is this the <em>brother-inw</em>''?" Chi Yang remarked with a slight smile, "Truly a face that couldunch a thousand ships, a talent that stands out, like an Immortal stepped out from a painting."

    "Has Senior Brother Chi taken a fancy?" A youth in blue chuckled beside him.

    Yun Xiao recognized him as the one who had offered advice at the Primordial Pagoda.

    "Cut it out!" Chi Yang shoved the youth in blue yfully.

    Laughter erupted among them.

    Lian Xi then introduced Chi Yang to Yun Xiao, "This is Senior Brother Chi, also a disciple of my master."

    Yun Xiao greeted him respectfully. A disciple of Dean Yu was no small matter, after all.

    "This is Senior Brother Yun Jin. You two share a surname. He''s a disciple of Uncle River," Lian Xi introduced the youth in blue.

    Yun Xiao and Yun Jin exchanged nods and smiles.

    Then she introduced a few others, all members of the Academy Faction, either from ancient families of the academy or ascended from the lower worlds.

    "Senior Brother Chi hails from the Burning Sun Realm. He''s a legend back home, leading humanity to victory against the dominant devil race of his realm," Lian Xi whispered.

    "Those days are behind me," Chi Yang said with a modest smile. "Arriving at the Primordial Ruins, I realized there''s always someone better, and mountains beyond mountains. Not to mention the seniors here, but even my junior sister here puts me to shame."

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    "You''re too modest, Senior Brother," Lian Xi replied with a twinkle in her eye, then inquired, "I see you all ready to go, on a mission perhaps?"

    "Yes!" Chi Yang nodded, "Uncle Feng has tasked us with a demon-ying mission, promising ample ''merit'' rewards."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 409: Blood Devil Ruins

    Chapter 409: Blood Devil Ruins

    "What''s the mission?" Lian Xi asked.

    Chi Yang chuckled. "Nothing top secret. Just over at the Blood Devil Ruins, the thick resentment there has brewed up some blood resentment demons, sneaking into the neighboring realms, causing trouble. Needs sorting out, pronto."

    "Aren''t the Blood Devil Ruins under the Pathseeker Society''s watch?" Lian Xi frowned slightly.

    Chi Yang''s smile faded as he nced around, then whispered, "inly put, those blood resentment demons are dangerous and not worth much loot. They''d rather not bother."

    "The Three Immortals Day is upon us, like their New Year. They won''t step foot out of the Primordial Ruins these days," Yun Jin, the youth in blue, added.

    Hearing this, Lian Xi nodded, stepping back. "Well then, I won''t keep you from saving lives."

    Chi Yang nodded, then turned to Yun Xiao, "We''ll drink to your safe return."

    "Safe travels," Yun Xiao saluted.

    "Count on it!" Chi Yang grinned, "We cultivators aim to save souls, a true Immortal''s duty! With like-minded fellows on this journey, who''s to say we won''t find kinship in the heavens?"

    "Enough with the heavy stuff. You''re setting off death gs!" someone interrupted.

    "Really, we''ve heard it so much we could recite it."

    "Every time he gets sentimental, I panic, convinced I''m done for. Better not reminisce over my daughter''s portrait on the way... Wait, I don''t even have a daughter! Damn, I don''t even have a wife!"

    "Who says you don''t have a wife? You have ten, five on each side, taking turns."

    Unable to stand their banter any longer, Lian Xi snapped, "Get moving already!"

    With that, they set off, spirits light.

    After some distance, Chi Yang looked back, his gaze lingering on two figures holding hands, a trace of distraction in his eyes.

    "Stop looking," Yun Jin patted him on the shoulder. "Isn''t her happiness what you wanted?"

    Chi Yang shook his head, a fierce determination in his eyes. "I''m just scared her happiness will be fleeting, ending in more pain."

    "Wait and see," Yun Jin said.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Just stepping into the Merit Arena, Yun Xiao piped up with a question that hung in the air, "Lian Xi, what are the Blood Devil Ruins?"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Lian Xi, with a bit of a puzzled look, exined, "Well, it''s kinda like a vast ocean made up entirely of devil blood. It''s quite vast, nearly half the size of the Primordial Ruins."

    "Devil blood?" Yun Xiao mulled over that, his curiosity piqued. "And where did all that bloode from?"

    Lian Xi stopped in her tracks, turning to face him, her voice suddenly trailing off into silence.

    "What''s the matter?" Yun Xiao asked, a hint of concerncing his words.

    Lian Xi bit her lip, a shadow of gloom passing over her face. "You might not know the history of this world," she finally said.

    "Then enlighten me," Yun Xiao encouraged.

    Taking a deep breath, Lian Xi began, "Long ago, there were two divine arks in the heavens. One belonged to humans, the other to the devils. For endless eons, they shed, a turmoil that spread across countless worlds. The remnants of the devils in many lower worlds today are a testament to their once formidable might, even overshadowing the humans at one point."

    "And then?" Yun Xiao urged her on.

    "A few centuries back, humans rose in power, defeating the blood devils, sinking their ark, nearly wiping them out. The Blood Devil Ruins? That''s where their ark lies submerged, their blood forming an eternal ocean."

    "That strong, huh?" Yun Xiao was taken aback, expecting a tale of human oppression, not one of vanquishing devils.

    "Indeed, a rare monument in human history," Lian Xi said, her tone tinged with sorrow.

    Yun Xiao sensed something amiss. "A monument, yet you sound so forlorn?"

    "A few centuries ago," he pondered, "who led the humans to this victory?"

    Lian Xi looked down, her voice barely above a whisper, "The Martial Emperor n."

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao''s mind raced, piecing together the aftermath. "I bet, while this victory eradicated an age-old foe, the Primordial Ruins must''ve paid a steep price. Scandals about the Martial Emperor n started surfacing amidst conspiracy theories. People even med the war''s toll on them. Taking advantage of their weakened state post-victory, they were driven into the abyss... And just then, the Three True Immortals appeared, didn''t they?"

    "How''d you guess?" Lian Xi gawked at him, baffled.

    Yun Xiao offered a world-weary smile, "Ignorance, numbness, and a heap of suspicion, that''s human nature for you. The more you understand it, the further away you drift from humanity."

    "Nonsense!" Lian Xi suddenly red up, ring at him, "Humans, humans are the spirit of all beings! Most are inherently good, caught in tough spots. Sometimes demons blur their vision, leading them astray, unable to recognize their saviors. But it''s never on purpose..."

    "Easy there," Yun Xiao said, gently squeezing her shoulders, "Don''t fret. Most times, I''m on the same page as you. Sure, I get disheartened now and then, but it doesn''t change who I am at heart."

    "Right..." Lian Xi nodded, though doubt still clouded her eyes.

    "Let''s drop it," Yun Xiao suggested with a smile, "If you''re free, how about a trip to the Blood Devil Ruins with me?"

    "Why head there? It''s a living hell," Lian Xi whispered.

    "If I don''t venture into hell, who will?" Yun Xiao quipped with a grin.

    Lian Xi bit her lip, then relented, "Alright!"

    With her nod, it was settled.

    Yun Xiao wasn''t exactly itching to see the Blood Devil Ruins in all its <em>glory.</em> His true desire was to apany the War Princess.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    As they chatted, they ventured deeper into the Merit Arena.

    The ce was vast, adorned elegantly, with guardians at every turn.

    "The swordsmanship and daoist spells of the Merit Arena can''t be taken outside or shared. Each one is cataloged," Lian Xi exined as they walked.

    Yun Xiao passed several chambers, most upied.

    "One chamber, one technique? You enter to learn?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Exactly. This area is for the Level 7 Ding disciples to ponder and exchange. Pick one," Lian Xi urged.

    After checking a few chambers, Yun Xiao pointed to a wooden que at one door, "What''s this <em>60 Merits</em> about?"

    "Oh..." Lian Xi froze, then apologetically turned to Yun Xiao with a cute expression, "I totally slipped up on this. I''m such a klutz!"

    "Hold the charm offensive. Exin," Yun Xiao said, sternly.

    "The Primordial Academy is the epitome of fairness, where all daoist spells, swordsmanship, and other techniques require <em>Merits</em> to learn," Lian Xi said with a pout.

    "And how does one earn these <em>Mer</em>its?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Well, there''s a slew of ways. Level 7 Ding disciples get 100 Merits monthly. Then there''s ying demons, joining the Pathseeker Society, and such," Lian Xi exined.

    "So, I''ve got 100 now?" asked Yun Xiao.

    "Not yet. Your 100 will take a month toe through," Lian Xi said, biting her lip.

    "A month? By then, my grandson could be fetching soy sauce!" Yun Xiao quipped.

    "Keep your shirt on! You''re just advancing quickly in cultivation, it''s got nothing to do with your wife''s birthing speed..." Blue Star facepalmed.

    Lian Xi felt quite wronged, having forgotten this crucial detail.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t really chide her, seeing her so aggrieved, so he just grumbled, "This Primordial Academy sure knows how to dampen spirits. Back in my Sword Ruins days, I got what I wanted on the spot."

    "It can''t be helped. It''s not just my master''s say here; too many eyes are watching. Even I have to grind out tasks bit by bit for resources," Lian Xi said helplessly.

    Fair was fair, but it sure was a hassle. But Yun Xiao got it; the real issue was the overreach of the Three True Immortals, their long arms meddling in the academy''s affairs, keeping a tight grip on the resources.

    "Isn''t there some exception to the rule?" Yun Xiao wasn''t disheartened; he asked patiently.

    "An exception?" Lian Xi pondered, "Well, there is one ce, but..."

    "But what?"

    "Behind the Merit Arena, there''s an <em>Old Pce</em> housing various iplete texts¡ªoutdated, damaged, or lost techniques, some just summaries... These don''t cost any Merits, but they''re mostly useless," Lian Xi exined, shaking her head.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled as he listened.

    "Let''s go," he said, taking Lian Xi''s hand.

    "Where to?" she asked.

    "To the Old Pce!"

 Chapter 410: Polar Yin-Yang Chess

    Chapter 410: Pr Yin-Yang Chess

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi strolled over to the Old Pce, a ce more forgotten than a ghost town, hidden away in a bamboo grove that hardly anyone bothered to visit anymore. It was a so-called pce that was really just a humble yard with a few shabby houses that made the rest of the world seem bustling byparison.

    "Are you sure there''s treasure here?" Yun Xiao remarked, eyeing the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and skepticism.

    "Hey, I never quite said there was treasure here. This spot is more of a library for rejected items¡ªbooks with missing pages or tales long forgotten. People have beening here for ages, thinking they''ll find something precious, only to end up with a handful of dust and a bucket of disappointment," Lian Xi replied.

    Yun Xiao just nodded, taking in theyer of dust that seemed to cover every surface, a testament to the years of neglect.

    As they chatted, they wandered into the courtyard and were greeted by the sight of an old man, lost in a world of ck and white on a chessboard.

    "Lian Xi, my girl, is that you?" the old man perked up, his eyes suddenly gleaming with a spark of recognition. "Come, y a game with your old uncle."

    Lian Xi, half amused and half exasperated, tugged at Yun Xiao, saying, "He''s the chess master who''s never been bested. I''d rather not walk right into a trap."

    But before they knew it, they were standing right in front of the old chess sage.

    "And who might this young fellow be?" the elder inquired, his interest piqued.

    "Ah, this is him," Lian Xi said with a smile, introducing Yun Xiao to her Uncle Feng Qingcong.

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    "Pleasure to meet you, Uncle Feng," Yun Xiao greeted him with respect, piecing together that this man was another of Dean Yu''s brother disciples, much like the memorable Uncle River.

    With a chuckle, Feng Qingcong invited, "Since it''s your first visit, how about a couple of rounds of chess?"

    Embarrassed, Yun Xiao admitted, "I''ve never really yed before."

    Feng Qingcong just smiled. "Do you at least know the rules?"

    "I haven''t the faintest," Yun Xiao said, straight to the point.

    "Perfect, I''ll teach you. Have a seat," Feng Qingcong insisted with enthusiasm.

    "Uncle Feng, maybe I should y with you instead," Lian Xi said, rubbing her forehead in resignation.

    "No, no, your skills are decent, which makes it less intriguing. I''m keen to see if a nk te like him can spark some novelty!" Feng Qingcong''s eyes gleamed at Yun Xiao like he was eyeing a plump goose. "A master and a novice¡ªit''s bound to ignite a destined spark. I''m all anticipation!"

    With nothing pressing on his schedule, Yun Xiao nodded and took a seat opposite Feng Qingcong.

    "Let''s start with the basics¡ªone ys white, the other ck," Feng Qingcong began, delving into the rules while Yun Xiao listened intently.

    After a short while, Feng Qingcong smiled and asked, "Got it?"

    "Ready to start," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Feng Qingcong chuckled, "Love the boldness! I''m known as the chessboard''s killer genius."

    Yun Xiao smiled lightly, "I''ll take white."

    "Chess is all about thinking ten steps ahead. Lose enough, and you''ll start winning," Feng Qingcong mused, encouraging Yun Xiao not to be disheartened.

    And so, they began. Yun Xiao yed swiftly, each move decisive.

    "A true genius!" Feng Qingcong soon erupted inughter and awe.

    For a first-timer, Yun Xiao''s skill was astonishing, leaving Feng Qingcong, a connoisseur, in shock. But as the game progressed, hisughter faded, his expression growing more serious by the minute, sweat beading on his forehead.

    Yun Xiao, on the other hand, remained serene, a smile ying on his lips.

    Was the oue already clear?

    Lian Xi watched, her nerves on edge.

    Then, Feng Qingcong burst intoughter, cing a ck piece with a sense of liberation. Eyes zing, he challenged, "What do you think?"

    Yun Xiao smiled, cing a white piece calmly, "Predictable. I predicted this move."

    Feng Qingcong sneered as he made his next move. "You''re too young. I predicted your prediction!"

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao''s smile widened, cing another piece that dramatically altered the board, the white pieces engulfing the ck. Victory was his. He stood, leaving behind the words, "And I predicted that you would predict my prediction."

    <em>BANG! </em>Feng Qingcong''s chair legs snapped in two, sending him tumbling to the ground. Eyes wide, breath heavy, he was the picture of disbelief.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "No! No! No!" He raged at the heavens, tears streaming, then leapt up to cling to Yun Xiao''s legs.

    "Uncle Feng, what''s the meaning of this?" Yun Xiao was more than a little embarrassed.

    "One more game! No, make it two, best two out of three..." Feng Qingcong pleaded.

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    "Sure thing," Yun Xiao chuckled, then held out his hand. "But this time, there''s a fee."

    "I''m broke!" Feng Qingcong blurted out.

    "No cash, no y," Yun Xiao quickly withdrew his leg.

    Lian Xi watched, dumbfounded by the spectacle.

    Seeing Feng Qingcong still clinging, she stepped in front of Yun Xiao with augh. "Uncle Feng, if you want to mooch off his chess skills, I might just spread the word about your loss."

    "Please don''t..." Feng Qingcong looked as if he''d been struck by lightning.

    He stared at the young duo, his mind buzzing, unable toprehend his defeat.

    "I''m off to explore the Old Pce. If I find something, I''ll take on Uncle Feng again," Yun Xiao said, suddenly serious.

    "So, you''re noting back, huh! What''s there to find in that old junkyard, just piles upon piles of rubbish..." Feng Qingcong looked dejected. "I''ve always despised those who win once and run!"

    "We''ll see about that." With that, Yun Xiao ventured into the Old Pce.

    Inside, everything was worn and torn. Before him stood some dpidated bookshelves,den with dusty tomes. Flipping through a few, he found their contents mediocre at best, hardlyparable to the techniques in the Ancestral Sword Tomb.

    Lian Xi and Feng Qingcong followed him in.

    "To be honest, it''s all trash here. If you want real treasures, better to earn them fair and square. There''s no such thing as a free lunch. Don''t go around expecting handouts," Feng Qingcong huffed.

    Still sore from his defeat, he seemed to be goading Yun Xiao.

    "Uncle Feng," Yun Xiao turned, asking earnestly, "What was the highest grade piece of junk in this Old Pce before?"

    "Highest grade piece of junk¡­?" After stroking his beard, Feng Qingcong replied, "Of course, there''s that!"

    "What?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Diving into his bosom, Feng Qingcong fished around before tossing out a tattered, musty tome that seemed to carry the essence of his <em>personal aroma</em>. "This is the gem! Once a Mid Yang grade masterpiece from the Primordial Schr''s Pce, unrivaled a millennium ago. s, now only half remains."

    "Mid Yang grade? That''s remarkably high," Lian Xi remarked with surprise, looking at Feng Qingcong, "Such a profound art must have many techniques. Even if only half is left, mastering the first few moves would be immensely valuable. Why is it left here in this Old Pce?"

    "You''d have to see for yourself what <em>half</em> means." Feng Qingcong chuckled.

    Lian Xi leaned in close to Yun Xiao, peering into the book in his hands, almost fainting at the sight.

    What Yun Xiao held was literally half a book, torn down the middle, not just missing half its pages but split into two halves, with Yun Xiao holding just the left side.

    This was even worse than being split top to bottom.

    Had it been torn horizontally, at least the name of the art could be deciphered. But now, with only the left half, all that could be made out were the words "Pr Yin..."

    Opening the first page, Yun Xiao saw half a diagram of a human figure, followed by¡ª

    "The essence of heaven and earth''s Yin and Yang..." and then nothing.

    The next line read:

    ¡¸<em>The essence of creation from a chessboard...</em>¡¹

    And then nothing again. Nearly every line was missing itstter half.

    Lian Xi now understood why this <em>half-book</em> was relegated to the Old Pce.

    It wasn''t just a minor art; it was utterly lost.

    "How about it? Is the grade high enough?" Feng Qingcong asked Yun Xiao with a smile.

    "High! Quite fascinating," Yun Xiao flipped a few more pages, "Is this art named Pr Yin-Yang Chess?"

    "Indeed." Feng Qingcong sighed.

    "It shares some simrities with our recent game of chess," Yun Xiao observed seriously.

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    "Yes..." Feng Qingcong inhaled deeply, "It was the pinnacle of our Chess Dao lineage, sadly torn asunder and forever lost due to internal strife among our ancestors."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao''s smile widened, cing another piece that dramatically altered the board, the white pieces engulfing the ck. Victory was his. He stood, leaving behind the words, "And I predicted that you would predict my prediction."</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 411: No Money, No Cultivating!

    Chapter 411: No Money, No Cultivating!

    Yun Xiao tucked away the half-book into his robe and turned to Feng Qingcong, "Much obliged, Uncle Feng."

    "What now? You''re taking that old thing, seriously?" Feng Qingcong was just pulling his leg, but Yun Xiao seemed dead set on it.

    "Paying my respects to the ancients," Yun Xiao said, solemnly.

    "Respect all you want, but that book''s not leaving with you. House rules," Feng Qingcongid down thew.

    "I can''t take it out?" Yun Xiao pursed his lips, "Guess I''ll just take everything in right here then."

    And with that, he propped himself against a bookshelf, eyes sparkling, lost in the pages of that half-book.

    "..." Feng Qingcong was floored. He then turned to Lian Xi and asked, "What''s he up to?"

    "ying it cool," Lian Xi said, her cheeks a shade of red.

    "In front of this old timer? Hardly seems fitting." Feng Qingcong was lost for words.

    "He''s not doing it for you." Lian Xi''s eyes were peach blossoms as she watched Yun Xiao. "A man absorbed in a book is a sight to behold."

    "..." Feng Qingcong was speechless yet again. These young''uns were beyond him.

    Yun Xiao flipped through the book at lightning speed, his eyes darting like two chess pieces, one ck, one white, dancing in the air. One breath, one page. In 60 breaths, he was done with the half-book.

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath, and handed the book back to Feng Qingcong with a simple "Thank you."

    "Well, I''ll be," Feng Qingcong stroked his beard.

    "Let''s have another game sometime," Yun Xiao said with a grin.

    "On the house?" Feng Qingcong probed.

    "You''ve already paid," Yun Xiao said.

    "Paid? When did that happen?" Feng Qingcong looked at him, bewildered.

    "Lil Xi, do you think we should keep searching?" Yun Xiao peered into the depths of the ancient pce with a hint of curiosity.

    While pondering over the Pr Yin-Yang Chess, his gaze had caught something else. It was a stone stele, almost resembling a gravestone, cloaked in ayer of dust.

    Yun Xiao could barely make out some inscriptions on it. "What''s this?" He stepped closer, asking both Lian Xi and the nearby Feng Qingcong.

    "Oh, I know this one," Lian Xi chimed in. "This is the Primordial Triforce Stele, engraved with the Primordial Triforce Sword Art. It''s the foundation of the Primordial Academy and a pinnacle of swordsmanship. While the loss of the Dual Pr Yin-Yang Chess is a regret in the realm of chess tactics, the disappearance of this sword art is a truement for all Sword Cultivators."

    Without uttering a word, Yun Xiao approached and wiped the dust off the stele, revealing that four-fifths of the original inscriptions had been erased.

    What should have been 1,000 characters was now reduced to less than 200, scattered across every corner of the stele. This was even more dramatic than the loss of the Pr Yin-Yang Chess!

    It was evident that the erased characters were forcefully chiseled away with a Sword Soul. Why had this stele been reduced to such a state? Yun Xiao didn''t ask. He suspected it was yet another tale of selfishness, greed, and betrayal.

    He was more concerned with what remained of the stele''s teachings.

    "This sword art... such a pity. Had it remained, our academy''s swordsmanship wouldn''t have declined to such lows,pletely overshadowed within the Primordial Ruins." Feng Qingcong sighed, shaking his head.

    As he spoke, he noticed Yun Xiao reaching out to touch the stele, tracing both the remaining characters and the chiseled holes, his eyes flickering with determination, as sharp as a sword''s edge.

    "This kid''s putting on a show again!" Though they had known each other for less than half an hour, Feng Qingcong was already deeply impressed.

    After about 15 minutes, Yun Xiao had touched every character from start to finish.

    "How about it, once-in-a-generation genius?" Feng Qingcong coughed, asking.

    Yun Xiao turned around, took a deep breath, and said to Feng Qingcong, "Uncle Feng, I owe you two games of chess."

    "Oh? Then let''s not wait. Fight now! You won the first game because I underestimated you. But from here on out, it won''t be so easy for you," Feng Qingcong chuckled with a hint of challenge.

    Under the shade of a pavilion, by a stone table, the two made their return. Feng Qingcong was just setting up the chessboard and sorting the pieces, muttering to himself, "This time, I''m taking the white pieces."

    "Uncle Feng," Yun Xiao suddenly halted his hand, fixing him with a profound gaze. "We won''t be needing your chess set."

    "Then which one shall we use?" Feng Qingcong asked, setting aside his board and pieces.

    "We''ll use mine," Yun Xiao dered, sweeping his hand from left to right across the stone table.

    In a swirl of celestial mist and shifting lights, a miniature chessboard, alive with the turmoil of clouds, materialized on the table.

    With a gentle tap, ck and white chess pieces, forged from the sacred power, floated before Yun Xiao and Feng Qingcong.

    Grasping a cloud-like white piece, Yun Xiao smiled at Feng Qingcong and said, "I''ve always been partial to white. Let''s say the white pieces are mine."

    Lian Xi, hand over her mouth in astonishment, watched Yun Xiao, utterly bemused.

    Feng Qingcong took a deep breath, clutching the Pr Yin-Yang Chess book close, tears welling up as he gazed at Yun Xiao. "Alright, they''re yours."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Mystic Zenith Temple, nestled in the deepest reaches of the Primordial Academy, was a ce of solemn grandeur, its buildings d in hues of ck and silver, some shimmering coldly, others dark and forbidding.

    Reputed as the academy''s most impressive and revered site, few disciples dared to venture here. The temple''s fore had seen countless executions, umting a dense aura of resentment over time, especially in the past century as the temple imposed stricter rules, elevating its authority and instilling fear at its mere mention.

    At this moment, a woman d in a silver robe, her demeanor both alluring and frosty, sauntered into a secluded hall, her presence stirring the silent air.

    At the temple''s heart, Dharma Crown Qin stood with a respect that bordered on reverence, her gaze fixed on a crimson shadow behind a curtain. "I''ve briefed you on the situation. The boy is an enigma, tied to the remnants of the Martial Emperor. I wonder what the Three True Immortals..."

    Before she could finish, a silver and ck token appeared out of thin air, hovering before her eyes.

    "With this token, you may enter the Nine Hells," came a chilly female voice from behind the curtain.

    "Thank you, Three True Immortals, and thank you, Temple Head," Dharma Crown Qin bowed deeply, taking the token and backing away.

    "Spare him, bring him to me," the voice suddenlymanded.

    Caught off guard, Dharma Crown Qin nodded. "Understood! His dual mastery of sword and sigil could offer some insights..."

    "You talk too much." The crimson shadow cast a cold nce her way.

    Dharma Crown Qin''s smile vanished. She nodded and left, her gaze turning icier.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Divine Dawn Pavilion, another night unfurled.

    Beneath the moon, two figures leaned by theke, basking in its hidden glow.

    Lian Xi nestled in Yun Xiao''s arms, her cheeks flushed with a rosy tint.

    "You really do like being spoiled¡­" Yun Xiao mused, gently pinching her earlobe.

    With Zhao Xuanran, it was usually him lying on her jade-like legs, moon-gazing. The difference was palpable!

    "What''s on your mind?" Lian Xi whispered from his embrace.

    "I''m troubled," Yun Xiao replied, his voice heavy with concern.

    "Worried about something? Is it about what''s happening in five days?" Lian Xi asked with a hint of concern.

    "No," Yun Xiao shook his head, "My worry is... I''m broke!"

    "Out of Immortal Jades?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yep, cleaned out," Yun Xiao confessed. He had hoped things would go as smoothly as in the Nine Hells, but reality in the Primordial Ruins proved more¡­ fair.

    Under the shadow of the Three True Immortals, there was no chance for another Exiled Sword Immortal, a supreme Immortal reincarnated, to rise above all. So, money was a tight squeeze!

    "I can buy you what you need!" Lian Xi offered eagerly.

    "No need, I''ll figure something out." Yun Xiao knew she was at a crucial stage too, needing her Immortal Jades. In times like these, he had to fend for himself. Otherwise, he''d be stuck in the Mid Genesis Spirit Realm, with no quick way to power up.

    "Lil Xi, what''s the quickest way to make a buck in the Primordial Ruins?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Uh... the fastest ways are all listed in the disciple''s rulebook, on the page about capital punishment," Lian Xi replied with a twinkle in her eye, yfully.

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao thought back and realized it was true. An offhand remark could carry a heavy truth!

    "I''m already on the hit list, what''s a little morew-bending?" Seeing no one around, he leaned in and whispered, "Hey, does the Primordial Ruins have any Sword Hearts? The really powerful kind?"

 Chapter 412: Grandmas Last Hurrah!

    Chapter 412: Grandma''s Last Hurrah!

    "Sword Heart?" Lian Xi blinked her beautiful eyes. "What do you need a Sword Heart for?"

    "The Primordial Ruins is brimming with danger, every random person is a master of the Immortal Dao. I need a Sword Heart to protect myself," Yun Xiao exined with a serious tone.

    "I can be your shield," Lian Xi insisted, clinging to his arm. "Stay by my side, and no one can touch you."

    Her eyes sparkled as she spoke, and for a moment, despite their differences, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but see Chen Xi in her. It was a curious feeling, acknowledging they were distinct yet finding their spirits remarkably simr, save for a degree of liveliness.

    "What''s on your mind?" Lian Xi asked, noticing his silence. With a swift motion, she pinched his nose.

    Yun Xiao captured her hand, holding it close. "True, but isn''t an extra Sword Heart an extrayer of protection?"

    "Fair point!" Lian Xi stepped back, winking. "Wait here."

    She bounded into the room like a yful tiger and returned with a wooden box, presenting it to Yun Xiao.

    "What''s this?" he inquired.

    "A Sword Heart," she dered.

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    "You have one?" For Yun Xiao, this was an unexpected delight. He epted the box and seated himself beside Lian Xi by the lotus pond, sensing the significance of the Sword Heart in her gaze.

    "Did someone close to you leave this behind?" he whispered.

    "Yes, it was my grandmother''s," Lian Xi caressed the box, her voiceden with nostalgia.

    "Your real grandmother?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not the one by blood, but the grandma who raised me," Lian Xi''s eyes filled with a fond remembrance as she spoke to Yun Xiao. "My grandma was something else, known far and wide as the Compassionate Jade Sword Immortal. She spent her life gliding on her Sovereign Sword through countless worlds, shing demons, banishing devils, and safeguarding themon folk. Her name was legendary among the people. I was a little baby she stumbled upon in a lower world, and she''s the one who named me."

    "You weren''t born in the Primordial Ruins?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    "Far from it," Lian Xi gazed at the wooden box, her eyes brimming with deep emotion. "As far as I can remember, I roamed thends with her, fighting off demons, protecting countless vigers, until I was eight. That''s when she grew too old to continue, and she brought me to the Primordial Ruins, leaving me in the care of the Liu Family."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Did she pass away unexpectedly or..."

    Yun Xiao''s question was cut short by Lian Xi''s gentle voice, "Grandma died a peaceful death. She lived through the trials of age, hundreds of years, venturing alone since her youth, only returning to the Ruins with me at the end of her journey... She was content when she passed, iming she''d fulfilled her life''s purpose without a single regret."

    Yun Xiao admired the wooden box, his eyes filled with reverence. "To dedicate one''s life to a single cause, without a moment''s hesitation, bringing blessings to the world, she truly was remarkable."

    The Compassionate Jade Sword Immortal!

    How many souls lost in turmoil longed for such a savior?

    Unknown in the Primordial Ruins, yet her name echoed across the realms.

    "The only thing she worried about was me." Lian Xi recalled her grandmother''s final moments, her eyes misting over. "She never spoke of the Sword Heart. I never imagined she''d choose to leave in agony for my sake. I wept for ages when Uncle Liu handed it to me. It felt like no deed could ever repay her maternal kindness. All I can do is carry on her legacy, to ease the suffering of those in this world."

    Yun Xiao had only inquired about the Sword Heart, not expecting to unearth such a tale. He stared at her, reminded of Chen Xi''s promation on the throne that day... Was this the incarnation of transcending cmity? Or simply a living, breathing person?

    They were so alike, each with their own destinies and aspirations, even the spark in their eyes at this moment was identical.

    "It''s all in the past. Every memory grandma left me with is a treasure. So, I shouldn''t cry at the thought of her, right?" Lian Xi wiped away her tears, offering him a small, brave smile.

    "Right you are." Yun Xiao nodded solemnly, his thoughts a whirlwind. He handed the wooden box back to Lian Xi. "This Sword Heart means too much to you. Keep it. I can''t ept it."

    But Lian Xi shook her head. "No matter its value, time''s running out. If unused, it''ll just fade away."

    "It''s fading?" Yun Xiao blinked, taken aback.

    "Yes," Lian Xi confirmed. "Grandma''s been my shield for years. Now that I''ve grown strong, it''s time to let her rest, free of earthly worries. This Sword Heart has seen me through many a gloomy day, but with you by my side, I know she''d be overjoyed for me."

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    Yun Xiao held the box, lost in thought.

    "Let the Sword Heart protect you in its final moments." Lian Xi guided his hand to ept it.

    "But I might use it to strike..." Yun Xiao hesitated.

    "It''s fine. Grandma lived freely and spoke her mind. She always wished to contribute to the world onest time. She''d be happy to be of use before fading," Lian Xi reassured him.

    "Really?" Yun Xiao pondered. Times were tough, and with chaos brewing in the Nine Hells and the Primordial Ruins suffering, no one saw the urgency. Yun Xiao felt the call to action. He needed a bridge to ascend, to fully unleash his Creator Immortal potential. The Sword Heart was that bridge.

    So, he ceased his internal struggle, grasping the box firmly, "Grandma, your grandson-inw sends his regards."

    "..." Lian Xi stared at him, speechless at how shamelessly smooth that line came out.

    "Was grandma really that powerful?" As Yun Xiao gently opened the box, a white Sword Hearty inside, cracked and on the verge of vanishing, possibly by nightfall.

    "I was too young to know her true might," Lian Xi pondered, "But she was certainly formidable!"

    Gazing upon the Sword Heart, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but be impressed. "This Sword Heart really speaks to her might," he remarked with a sigh.

    Pity it was on the brink of dissipating. After a moment of contemtion, Yun Xiao turned to Lian Xi, "I need to step out, and you''re not allowed to follow me."

    "Huh?" Lian Xi was taken aback.

    "Just do as I say," Yun Xiaomanded with a stern face.

    "Why? It''s too dangerous," Lian Xi protested softly.

    "No choice, grandma''s expiration date is nearing. I''ve got to make her final disy a dazzling one!"

    With those words, Yun Xiao vanished in a whoosh, leaving Lian Xi speechless. This guy sure had his own style.

    "Lian Xi, will you follow him?" a white-robed elder who had just entered asked.

    After a brief pause, Lian Xi shook her head. "No need. My grandma will watch over him."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The night at the Primordial Academy was pitch ck!

    While the rest of the Ruins was brightly lit and bustling, the Academy was shrouded in darkness, as if light was strictly forbidden.

    The darkness and silence made it an ideal ce for sneaking around, though any skirmish would stand out unless it happened deep within the secluded halls.

    And there was Yun Xiao, threading through the darkness on his own!

    Nobody would have guessed that after challenging the Mysterious Sword Manor and Mystic Zenith Temple, he''d dare to wander alone at night.

    He crossed a dense forest and a silver pce emerged before him. This building, cold and solemn with a soft silver glow, was unlike anything else in the Academy, bearing more resemnce to the style of the Three Great Ruins.

    A signboard hung above the entrance with three characters¡ª

    "Silver Swell Residence?" Yun Xiao nced at the signboard before stepping through the main gate.

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    "Dharma Crown Qin, I''ve arrived."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "No choice, grandma''s expiration date is nearing. I''ve got to make her final disy a dazzling one!"</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 413: Pardon the Visit

    Chapter 413: Pardon the Visit

    In the back courtyard of the Silver Swell Residence, under the cover of dusk, the sound of flowing water rang clear.

    Beneath a towering silver tree, a luminous hot spring glimmered. The water, alive and moving, held a rity obscured by its medicinal thickness, exuding an intoxicating fragrance that promised both healing andfort.

    There, amidst the embrace of the spring, a womany afloat, her form cradled by the gentle caress of the water, most of her submerged, save for three parts that broke the surface.

    Her face, a masterpiece of nature''s art, floated above the mystical brew, her features¡ªa nose sculpted to perfection, eyes veiled byshes, lips moist with the promise of stories untoldposed a vision of ethereal beauty.

    The other two parts, like ivory sculptures kissed by the moon, adorned the water''s surface, their elegance entuated by the asional kiss of a falling droplet, a disy of dignified grace.

    Nearby, a voluminous silver robe hung upon a stone, the characters for <em>Mystic Zenith Law</em> embroidered on its back, glowing faintly.

    The woman, lost in the tranquility of her surroundings, was stirred by the approach of footsteps, confident and familiar, as if the intruder walked his own grounds. A hint of a smile yed upon her lips at the sound.

    A figure in white emerged, shrouded in the mist of the spring, his garment clinging to his form from the moisture in the air.

    "Zhixiu, didn''t I tell you not toe tonight?" Dharma Crown Qin voiced softly, a hint of resignation in her tone.

    "Why?" a voice asked, simple and direct.

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    "I have a task at dawn; I wish for no distractions tonight," she exined. With anguid gesture of her hand, she dismissed him, "Leave, I find no joy inpany tonight."

    Yet, the man in white remained unmoved, his stillness a silent challenge to her request, sparking a flicker of surprise in her, as she realized something amiss.

    "Your voice?" Her silvershes quivered, eyes slowly unveiling to the sight of the young man in white emerging through the mist, an ethereal presence, each inch of him a testament to perfection, rivaling even the divine.

    "Yun Xiao?" Disbelief painted her features, as if beholding the most astonishing sight in the world.

    "It''s me," he affirmed, locking gaze with her.

    With a fluid motion, Dharma Crown Qin rose from the waters, her form a blend of emerging silver and mist, long hair cascading down, veiling her yet not concealing the intensity in her stare.

    "What''s this?" Yun Xiao asked with ease, gesturing towards the spring.

    "A Lesser Yin Spirit Spring, nurtures the Life Sigil," Dharma Crown Qin articted, her voiceced with a chill.

    "Nice," Yun Xiao nodded, eyes drifting, "And the droplets, quite charming."

    Augh escaped her, despite the absurdity of the situation.

    "You, a brat on the brink of impending death, dare to waltz into my abode in the dead of night, making bold assessments?" she mocked.

    "Thrilling, isn''t it?" Yun Xiao replied, a yful edge to his voice.

    "Exhrating, like a dream!" she retorted with augh.

    "Good." Yun Xiao chuckled along.

    Her amusement fading, she pressed, "What''s your game?"

    "I bet you''re plotting my demise," Yun Xiao stated inly.

    "And?" she prodded.

    "So, I''m here to turn the tables, strike first, dodge the bullet," Yun Xiao said, facing her icy gaze unflinchingly.

    This woman,manding winds and clouds in the Mystic Zenith Temple, Primordial Academy, and the wider Primordial Ruins, bore her pride like a cloak. Yet, her freedom never clouded her vision; her eyes on Yun Xiao held only the coldness of impending doom. And disdain!

    "Yun Xiao, if you think a pretty face is your ticket to winning my favor and securing a lifeline, you''re sorely mistaken," Dharma Crown Qin said, her brow marked by a silver double-headed serpent that seemed toe alive, coiling around her arm.

    Her gaze on Yun Xiao was as cold as ice. "You''re right; I do fancy young and handsome men. But not when they''re pretty dogs!"

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    With those chilling words, the serpent sigil swelled, transforming into a massive snake entwining her slender form.

    With a ssh, she leaped from the water, the giant silver serpent wrapping around her, its forked, scarlet tongue fixed on Yun Xiao. The snake''s body was etched with countless inscriptions, forming thousands of tiny sigils.

    "Qin Lianyan, in the Establishment Five Decays Realm, has transcended five cycles of decline and possesses centuries of life. One of the adjudicating Crowns of the Mystic Zenith Temple, hailing from the Mystic Earth Ruins. Her Life Sigil is the Great Silver Serpent Sigil, with 450,000 Runes. Quite formidable," Yun Xiao recited, his gaze intense.

    "Have you lost your mind to fear?" Dharma Crown Qin sneered, tired of the banter.

    With a flick of her wrist, the Great Silver Serpent Sigil, with its 450,000 Runes, lunged at Yun Xiao.

    "Youe from wealth, surrounded by treasures?" Yun Xiao mused, a smirk ying on his lips. "Bing a top-tier Inscription Cultivator sure is a headache. Sigils, inscription pens, formations... all cost a fortune, and I''m broke!"

    "Broke and clearly insane," Dharma Crown Qin mocked.

    As her words fell, the double-headed serpent tightened around Yun Xiao, its crushing force paralyzing him, bones trembling under the immense pressure.

    "If not for the Temple Head''s request to keep you alive, you''d be dead already," Dharma Crown Qin taunted, flying close, her mature allure enveloped in a mist that clung to Yun Xiao, her beauty undeniable.

    "Little dog, thanks for delivering yourself. Saves me the trouble," she said, pinching his cheek, herughter shaking the leaves.

    Her n was to capture Yun Xiao, especially with a trip to the Nine Hells on the agenda. Who knew it would be this easy? Hriously so.

    But then, Yun Xiao slowly lifted his head, his gaze burning into Dharma Crown Qin, and said softly, "No need for thanks. After all, I''m not the one who''s about to lose their head."

    Yun Xiao stood firm, a sneer ying across his face as the twin-headed silver serpent lunged for him, driven by the furiousmand of Dharma Crown Qin.

    "Everything about me is tough," he retorted, ice in his voice.

    No sooner had the words left his lips than a little ck beast burst forth from his chest, unleashing a jet of dark mes straight into Dharma Crown Qin''s face. The ck mes swept over her, leaving her visage charred, her luxurious hair gone in a whoosh, and her once-white eyes turned to ckened orbs.

    In a mix of shock and fury, she screamed, her eyes locked onto Yun Xiao, who, unfazed, bellowed back, "Grandma, take her down!"

    With a flurry beneath his sleeve, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, aze with a stormy dark azure fire, tore through the uncontroble Great Silver Serpent Sigil and pierced Dharma Crown Qin''s chest in a clean thrust, the de passing straight through her.

    Gasping, Dharma Crown Qin''s ckened eyes widened in disbelief. She had underestimated the strike, not expecting it to breach her defenses, let alone impale her. Yet, what truly bewildered her was the terrifying force carried by the de, which ravaged her insides, searing through her Dantian, and setting her bones alight.

    As Dharma Crown Qin reeled from the unexpected blow, the giant serpent released its grip on Yun Xiao in agony.

    "Sorry about this, but not really," Yun Xiao dered, tightening his grip around her throat. Withdrawing the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, he delivered thrust after relentless thrust, each strike piercing through her.

    "Yun¡­ AGH!" she gasped, her voice trailing off as the relentless onught continued.

    Dharma Crown Qin''s expression went from furious to confused, then numb, and finally, to sheer terror. She couldn''t fathom it. The force invading her felt like the power of the Sword Heart, yet not quite. The real kicker, though, was the ck mes right in her face, scorching her skin and seemingly searing her soul, plunging her straight into the abyss of death.

    With nine swift strikes from Yun Xiao, Dharma Crown Qin''s strength left her, and she fell back, lifeless. The wounds from the sword smoked, licked by a sinister dark azure me.

    Her dimming eyes fixed on the young man for thest time, who, with a smile, said, "Maybe we''ll meet again in another life, Dharma Crown Qin."

    As her life ebbed away, her gaze hardened. But despair deepened as she saw Yun Xiao''s Life Sigil transform into a nine-headed dragon, seizing and consuming the Great Silver Serpent Sigil, absorbing its power into itself.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "His Life Sigil can devour other sigils..." That was Dharma Crown Qin''sst coherent thought amid the shock. But watching Yun Xiao plunder her Bag of Holding felt trivial inparison to this nightmare.

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    Having devoured the Life Sigil and looted her treasures, Yun Xiao stood victorious. Smiling, he gave her a thumbs-up. "You''re quite the wealthy one. Everything you have will be of great use to me. When I overturn the reign of the Three True Immortals, consider it a feather in your cap."

    With that, Dharma Crown Qin spat a mouthful of ck blood and breathed herst. Her body, untouched by cloth, was consumed by the dark azure mes, leaving not even ashes behind.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 414: Greener Pastures!

    Chapter 414: Greener Pastures!

    With just a nce, Yun Xiao knew he had hit the jackpot.

    Dharma Crown Qin was undoubtedly a high roller in the Primordial Ruins, packing more wealth than the overwhelming majority of the folks trying to eke out a living there.

    Her Bag of Holding included two types of Immortal Jade¡ªthemon white kind, about the size of a grain of rice, and the fancier pale gold ones, big as soybeans and shimmering like the morning sun, chock-full of Immortal energy.

    This pale gold Immortal Jade, considered medium quality in the Primordial Ruins, put the lesser quality ones in the lower worlds to shame in terms of value.

    "Dang, she was hauling over five billion of the lesser quality Immortal Jades and ten million of the medium quality ones," Yun Xiao mused.

    In fact, the value of those ten million gold Immortal Jades far outstripped that of the five billion white ones.

    Thanks to a little help from Lian Xi''s formidable granny, all these riches were now Yun Xiao''s for the taking. He didn''t stop at the Immortal Jades, though. He looted Dharma Crown Qin clean, grabbing every magic treasure, pill, bottle of inscription ink, and scrap of cultivation resource he could find, no holds barred.

    "With this loot, boosting my cultivation in the short term will be a breeze!" Yun Xiao thought.

    As he stood there, bathed in the light reflecting off the water of the hot spring, Yun Xiao sighed. "Shame I can''t take this spring water with me."

    Just then, Red Moon lit up with an idea, leaped from his arms, and dove into the bath, slurping up the water.

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    "Uh, you do realize that''s bathwater, right?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but remark.

    Red Moon, surfacing with a ssh, and Blue Star, pinching its nose in disdain, didn''t seem to mind.

    "No wonder it tasted so good!" Red Moon eximed with delight.

    Just then, Yun Xiao''s Prison Warden Life Sigil, fed by the essence of the Great Silver Serpent Sigil he''d just consumed, finally felt sated.

    "450,000 Runes and over 1,000 mini formations¡­ That''s going to take a pretty long time to absorb," Yun Xiao remarked to himself. It was like feeding a starving wolf, and now, finally, it had had its fill.

    Currently, the Rune count on Yun Xiao''s Prison Warden Life Sigil had increased to 320,000, with 800 mini formations. And after absorbing Huyan Pin''s Sword Soul, his Sword Aura had also increased to 310,000yers.

    "Now, both my Sword Soul and Life Sigil are around the same level!" Yun Xiao smiled.

    This was a level that only the top geniuses of the Primordial Ruins could reach!

    With the Prison Warden Life Sigil returning to the form of a nine-headed dragon emzoned across his brow, Yun Xiao felt the raw surge of newfound power and couldn''t help but think, "This gamble was worth the risk."

    Walking the path of cultivation with an ever-cautious step, he made it his business to know his enemies inside and out.

    After dispatching Huyan Pin in the Primordial Pagoda, the murderous intent from Dharma Crown Qin and the Mysterious Sword Manor Lord became as clear as day.

    On his way back to the Divine Dawn Pavilion, Yun Xiao made sure to get as much information on these two formidable foes from Lian Xi, covering everything from their strengths and quirks to their favorite hangouts.

    Armed with the Sword Heart of Lian Xi''s grandma on the brink of expiration, Yun Xiao wasn''t going to sit around waiting for trouble to find him.

    Between his two marked targets, one was a fortress unto himself, always nked by guards, while the other, a bit of a loner, seemed an easier mark. Even a fool knew who to strike at first.

    Rummaging through the spoils, Yun Xiao pulled out a token, heavy and brimming with power, clearly a treasure of high rank.

    "I''ll ask Lil Xi what this thing is," he decided, pocketing the token, and then signaling to his little beast, "Time to get going, no more drinking."

    Yun Xiao''s daring escapade had paid off, and now wasn''t the time for slip-ups.

    However, Red Moon, ever the glutton, couldn''t resist a final gulp, sucking up the spring like a vacuum, then staggering around tipsy and flushed from the feast.

    "Look what we''ve got here, a kid so greedy he drinks bathwater like it''s milk," Blue Star chided.

    "It''s all in your belly now!" Red Moon burped in response.

    Blue Star''s fur stood on end, a gag reflex kicking in at the thought.

    Yun Xiao, amused and exasperated by this duo''s antics, scooped them up, ready to slip away quietly into the night.

    "Who are you!?"

    At that moment, a cold voice rang out.

    Whirling around, Yun Xiao locked eyes with a strapping young man draped in a pale gold robe, his white eyes fixing Yun Xiao with an indifferent gaze.

    The unexpected visitor was Tian Zhixiu. Stepping forward with the might of a dragon, he demanded, "Is that you, Yun Xiao?"

    Caught off guard, Yun Xiao could only nod, acknowledging his presence with a hint of surprise.

    "And where might Dharma Crown Qin be?" Tian Zhixiu asked, his gaze sweeping the surroundings and finally resting on the now barren spirit spring.

    Realizing the fellow hadn''t witnessed the deed, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but crack a smile.

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    "You''re a bitte to the party; she''s moved on to greener pastures. Got tired of her old boy toy, and decided I was better," he quipped before swiftly turning on his heel.

    In an instant, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul transformed into a six-foot Sovereign Sword, carrying him away on a wave of illusions crafted from countless sword phantoms.

    "Thinking of leaving?" Tian Zhixiu''s eyes turned icy.

    With a series of pops, his body surged with the strength of a wild beast, a golden light pursuing Yun Xiao with relentless fury.

    "Five Decays Realm¡­ to be so formidable at such a young age," Yun Xiao marveled inwardly, pushing his limits as he fled. The sensation of being hunted by a legion bore down on him, a killing intent seeping deep into his bones.

    ncing back, Yun Xiao saw his pursuer was right behind him, a white-gold spear in hand, zing with the fierce patterns of a zing qilin, its tip roaring with mes, ready to strike.

    Yun Xiao found himself facing down the business end of a Yang grade treasure, the Daylight me Qilin Spear¡ªa true monarch among magic treasures and a rarity even in the exaltednd of the Primordial Ruins. This was the kind of firepower that Dharma Crown Qin could only dream of wielding.

    With a cold chuckle, Tian Zhixiu''s figure flickered with a golden radiance as he turned into a beam of light. With the poise of a seasoned warrior, he lunged with the spear, aiming to pin Yun Xiao like a butterfly to a board.

    "Die!" Tian Zhixiu roared. For the cultured president of the Pathseeker Society, hecked any decorum of a refined schr right now!

    "Quite decisive, aren''t we?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but remark under his breath as he summoned his Prison Warden Life Sigil, transforming it into the Runic Umbre. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The spear met the umbre with a ng that echoed like a bell, sending ripples of runes spiraling into dragon patterns, locking the spear''s advance in its tracks.

    With a whirl, the umbre spun, flinging off the spear with a shower of sparks, deflecting the killing blow and sending its wielder tumbling backward.

    The sh left Yun Xiao reeling hundreds of feet away, a testament to the explosive might of a Martial Cultivator who honed his entire body into a lethal weapon.

    The lines blurred between demons and humans when martial cultivation was added into the equation. Demons had demon magic to bolster their power, but Martial Cultivators made use of magic weapons and armor inbat! Even though demons were tougher in terms of raw physical power, humans were a lot more cunning!

    In this sh, Tian Zhixiu hadn''t gained any sort of advantage. He''d been knocked to the ground himself.

    "How?" Tian Zhixiu stared at Yun Xiao incredulously, baffled by the youth''s impossiblebat prowess.

    "Easy. I''m just more talented than you," Yun Xiao quipped back. He offered a parting nce, a mix of challenge and provocation, before vanishing into the shadows with his Sovereign Sword

    After missing his opportunity, Tian Zhixiu would have a hard time chasing after him.

    "Dammit!" Tian Zhixiu cursed, his face filled with frustration. "What was he doing here anyway? And where''s Qin Lianyan? Could she really have...?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the garden, he looked around, the air heavy with a question, "Dharma Crown Qin, are you here¡­?"

    Suddenly, his eyes caught a glimpse of a silky silver robe resting on a stone.

    "Her robe?" Tian Zhixiu''s face darkened further.

    Then, a scent in the air caught his attention. He stooped, examining a stone b closely. Rubbing the surface, he lifted his finger only to find it stained ck.

    "Ashes of the dead!" His face paled as his heart thundered. "I need to find the Temple Head!"

    In a sh, Tian Zhixiu was gone, a streak of golden light vanishing into the night.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Divine Dawn Pavilion, Lian Xi was deep in her cultivation, nked by two majestic white tigers formed from swirling vortexes of energy, their presencemanding and untouchable.

    A knock broke the silence.

    "Lil Xi, open up," a familiar voice called.

    With a gentle exhale that roared like a tiger, Lian Xi dispelled the charged atmosphere and skipped to the door. Swinging it open, she found Yun Xiao, who swept her into a hug as he stepped inside.

    "You''re back?" she asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

    Without a word, Yun Xiao produced a token from his embrace and ced it in her hands.

    "What''s this?" he asked.

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    "The Mystic Zenith Command Token, also known as the All-Realm Pass," Lian Xi remarked, her gaze flicking between the token and her Yun Xiao. "This is only supposed to be with the Temple Head. How did you get this?"

    "Let''s not dive into that just yet. Tell me, what''s it used for?" Yun Xiao pressed.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 415: Back Off My Man!

    Chapter 415: Back Off My Man!

    "With this token, you can enter forbiddennds that the Three True Immortals forbid from entry, like the heart of the Blood Devil Ruins, and other secret spots and ancient sites across the countless realms. It''s a real gem," Lian Xi exined.

    "Oh? And it''s not odd for Dharma Crown Qin to have such a token?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "She had this?" Lian Xi''s brows knitted together like two caterpirs in a tiff. "Guess the Temple Head sent her on an errand to some forbidden ce regr people aren''t allowed to go?"

    Yun Xiao cracked a cold smile. "Hey, remember how you mentioned just before supper that the Three True Immortals banned cultivators from entering the Nine Hells? You think it''s possible that she snagged this All-Realm Pass to enter my home realm, looking for <em>evidence</em>?"

    Lian Xi frowned. "Likely... So, what do we do?"

    "No worries. I''ve got no kin in the Nine Hells, just friends. I''ll tell them toy low," Yun Xiao said, the chill in his eyes deepening as he toyed with the token in his hand.

    "Hold up..." Lian Xi tilted her head, sensing something off. "How did Dharma Crown Qin''s Mystic Zenith Command Token end up with you?"

    "Just used grandma''s Sword Heart to sort her out," Yun Xiao said as if he were talking about swatting a fly.

    "What!?" Lian Xi''s mouth fell open in shock, her expressionpletely dumbfounded. "You''re joking, right?"

    "Not at all." Yun Xiao pinched her nose, chuckling. "Don''t believe me? Go have a look outside. The wee party is probably already here."

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    "What???" Lian Xi was even more bbergasted.

    How could he be so calm about this!

    Just then, she felt a shadow loom over Divine Dawn Pavilion.

    "Divine Dawn, bring Yun Xiao out."

    A voice as cold seeped through the door cracks.

    "It''s Si Qing, the Temple Head, the red-robed devil!" Lian Xi''s face paled.

    "Why''s she calling you Divine Dawn?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "The surname of the Martial Emperor''s n starts with <em>Divine.</em> She insists I''m part of the Martial Emperor''s family. This ce, the Divine Dawn Pavilion, was named that before I got here. She gave it to me on purpose, and I can''t even change the name if I wanted," Lian Xi said, pouting as if she were discussing a particrly strict dress code.

    Yun Xiao just nodded. "Oh..."

    Again with Divine Dawn. Coincidence? Or was there something more, something fated?

    Regardless, this red-robed she-devil standing before them was shaping up to be a tougher nut to crack than Dharma Crown Qin could ever hope to be.

    "Let''s go meet her," Yun Xiao said, taking Lian Xi''s hand. They looked into each other''s eyes, finding no trace of fear. After all, they were at the heart of the Primordial Academy, surrounded by white-robed protectors sworn to safeguard Lian Xi.

    Together, calm as the eye of a storm, they stepped outside to the front of the Divine Dawn Pavilion.

    A gathering of white-robed figures stood in wait.

    Opposite them, a group loomed, among them Tian Zhixiu, his face a mask of icy intent, his eyes swirling with the promise of violence. Beside him, a figure of grave danger¡ªa woman in a red cloak, her garb as garishly red as a bride''s wedding dress, embroidered with the sinister bloom of a red spider lily, exuding an aura of blood.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao caught sight of her, a shiver of unease passing through him at the sight of the blood-red Sword Aura coiling around her, symbols fluttering to the ground like bats of blood, spreading a chilling light hundreds of feet in every direction from where she stood.

    Beside her and Tian Zhixiu were several venerable elders with white eyes, likely Crowns from the Mystic Zenith Temple, each having transcended the fifth decay.

    "Visiting in the middle of the night¡­ What business do you have, Temple Head?" Lian Xi, though young, positioned herself protectively in front of Yun Xiao, like a mother hen shielding her chick.

    From beneath the red cloak, two beams of red light fixated on Yun Xiao.

    "Take him," shemanded.

    Behind her, the Crowns of the Mystic Zenith Temple nodded and advanced toward Yun Xiao.

    "Hold it right there!" Lian Xi stretched out her arms and dered with an icy edge, "Even if you are the Temple Head, you''ve got no right to forcefully kidnap people. And besides, this man is mine!"

    Yun Xiao, watching her stand defiantly, couldn''t help but be moved.

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    "Stop this nonsense, Lian Xi. He killed Dharma Crown Qin," Tian Zhixiu said coldly.

    "What did you say?" Lian Xi was momentarily stunned.

    "He says I killed Dharma Crown Qin," Yun Xiao managed to say without bursting intoughter.

    Lian Xi couldn''t help butugh, then pointed to her head and told Tian Zhixiu, "You better go patch up your brain."

    "If you''re aiming to use your power for personal vendettas, just say it. Why make up tales? Why not use me of killing the Temple Head while you''re at it? Lacking in imagination, are we?" Yun Xiao added.

    The surrounding white-robed figures couldn''t help but smirk at this exchange.

    "This is absurd, Temple Head. Please, leave," one of the white-robed elders said.

    Through it all, the red-robed woman watched Yun Xiao, motionless.

    "Let''s go," she suddenly said.

    "Temple Head!" Tian Zhixiu clenched his teeth in frustration. He wanted to argue further, but the piercing red re from under the cloak silenced him.

    The group arrived swiftly and departed just as quickly.

    Walking away, Tian Zhixiu murmured, "It''s my fault. I should have used the Lesser Projection Art to record him the moment I found him."

    "It wouldn''t have made a difference," the red-robed woman replied.

    "What do you mean?" Tian Zhixiu asked.

    "Just drop it," she said.

    "Does that mean we''re going to deal with it on Three Imm..." Tian Zhixiu''s words trailed off as he caught the crimson gaze of the red-robed woman,pelling him to silence.

    "Zhixiu," the red-robed woman halted, addressing the young man, "You represent the youth of the Three Great Ruins at the Primordial Academy."

    "Yes," he nodded in agreement.

    "With Dharma Crown Qin''s demise, a Crown spot has opened. We''re inclined to elevate someone young, someone who can rival Lian Xi''s influence, to make waves among the younger generation. The title of Crown is not just an honor; it symbolizes the rules and thew," she exined.

    "I will give it my all!" Tian Zhixiu inhaled deeply and bowed profoundly.

    "Promises to me mean nothing. Your battle is not with us but with winning over the disciples of the entire Primordial Academy," she stated.

    "Understood!" Tian Zhixiu nodded, then inquired, "What about Lian Xi? Won''t shepete with me for the spot?"

    "Only those over 15 years old canpete. She turns 15 on the day of the Three Immortals'' birth, and we n to hold the selection for a new Crown just before that, so she''s out," the red-robed woman replied.

    "And... Dean Yu?" Tian Zhixiu questioned.

    The woman nced at him, offering no answer but a chilling look before she departed.

    "Crowns," Tian Zhixiu addressed the others.

    A ck-robed elder spoke indifferently, "The selection, though open to anyone in the Primordial Academy, is fundamentally an internal affair of our Mystic Zenith Temple. It doesn''t require Dean Yu''s approval."

    "Understood!" Tian Zhixiu nodded deeply.

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    "Zhixiu," a Crown patted his shoulder, "Understand this. Your most crucial task now is to win the crowd!"

    Tian Zhixiu nodded, his frustration alleviating as he looked towards the Divine Dawn Pavilion, even a slight smile appearing on his face. "Seems I was too hasty today, forgetting this ce belongs to the Three True Immortals."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 416: Youre Sweeter Than Tea

    Chapter 416: You''re Sweeter Than Tea

    In the heart of the Nine Hells, deep within the Immortal Asylum, in a prison split by the firstyer of cracks, a hum filled the air.

    Beyond the crevice, butterflies in gold, silver, and ck crawled over the walls, their eyes flickering with a cold light.

    In a dark corner, the Nian with no skin slowly lifted its head, its dull yellow eyes peering out.

    Outside the crack stood three figures¡ªone in gold with an air of refinement, one in silver exuding mystery, and one in ck, the embodiment of cold indifference. They stood motionless, like statues, their gaze fixed on the Nian.

    "Scram!" The Nian growled, and the Immortal Asylum trembled once more, though less violently than before, showing it had grown weaker.

    "To think, in the old days, you wouldn''t even qualify as a flea on my back," the Nian sneered at the trio, who resembled nothing more than gnats to it.

    "Times change, as the saying goes. Thirty years on this bank of the river, thirty years on the other," the man in gold replied, his voice polite, his smile unwavering.

    "Screw off!" The Nian mmed the ground, sending a storm towards the crack, which furiously swept over the three figures. Yet, they remained unmoved.

    "Boring!" The Nian spat in disgust. It was trapped; the trio wouldn''t dare enter. A standoff ensued. Who would falter first? Clearly, the Nian, hunger gnawing at its belly, was at a disadvantage. Starved, vision blurring, it could only muster its will to endure.

    The Nian''s scheme, over a thousand years in the making, had been foiled by these three pesky gnats right at the doorsteps, infuriating it to no end!

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    Eventually, half a day rolled by.

    "It''s on itsst legs," the man in ck remarked suddenly.

    The man in gold nodded. "Let''s introduce some Destion Gu. Test the waters."

    With a smile, the man in silver stepped forward. A grin spread across his face, and as he opened his mouth, a stream of silvery-gray bugs crawled out, forming a silver rivulet that snaked into the crack.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Tiny, nearly invisible bugs blended into a liquid mass. As their numbers grew, a silver pool began to form within the prison, quickly enveloping the beast.

    "ANNOYING PESTS!" The Nian howled, its face contorting in agony, rampaging around as if its head would split open from the pain.

    Driven by instinct, it went berserk at the slightest bit of pain, smearing more of the silver liquid on itself with every collision. With no fur to protect its bloodied skin, the silver bugs easily burrowed into its flesh, organs, brain, and marrow.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Inside, the Nian raged, while outside, the three figures stood with hands behind their backs, smiling.

    "The Destion Gu will tame it." The man in silver chuckled.

    "Keep it up, until it can''t take no more," the man in gold instructed.

    "No problem." The man in silver stood at the crack, his abdomen a gaping maw drooling silver liquid, a ghastly sight.

    To them, the Nian''s struggle was just a spectacle.

    "Still clinging to past glories, huh?"

    "Time to ept your fate. You''re no longer the cmity beast of old."

    "Just a dying relic, flickering out... that''s all."

    And theyughed.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Nian battered itself bloody, howling in despair, but inside, it too wasughing.

    "Fox! How long do you want me to keep pretending?" Inside its body, where silver veins sprawled across every inch of flesh, the Nian muttered under its breath.

    "Keep acting until I say stop," came a voice, ethereal as a whisper in the wind.

    "Why can you devour these bugs?" the Nian growled, its toneced with a chilling dread.

    "Because I''m the forefather of destion," the voice replied.

    Stunned by the revtion, the Nian paused, then, while howling in agony, it cursed, "Idiot! Get lost! Stinking idiot! All idiots!"

    Outside the Immortal Asylum, under a jade tree, the War Princess lounged on a stone, her long, shapely legs swinging leisurely. She watched the trembling Immortal Asylum, bored out of her wits after bing ustomed to the spectacle.

    Suddenly, a voice inside her heart spoke!

    She was in the midst of bad-mouthing someone, so the voice startled her, causing her to tumble off the stone.

    "What''s up?" sheined.

    "I need you to arrange something. Have Pale Revenant handle it," the voice from her heart instructed.

    "Speak up," the War Princess pouted. Though he had been gone for just two days, she was already bored to tears.

    Yun Xiao quickly shared his ns with her.

    "Good to know you still remember someone''s stuck here!" she remarked before going to find Pale Revenant.

    Pale Revenant was sitting in a corner, hugging her knees, her bare feet tucked under her, and her eyes vacant as if she were a living corpse.

    "Yun Xiao needs a favor. Take some folks to the Heavenly Realm for a tour," the War Princess said.

    "Okay." Pale Revenant stood up.

    "Here''s the list. I''ve prepared it for you," the War Princess handed over a paper.

    Pale Revenant nced at the list, which named over thirty demons, devils, and cultivators, including the Sword Warden, members of the Mu Family, the Phoenix Empress, and the Netherworld Emperor.

    "Is he in trouble in the Primordial Ruins, worried about retaliation?" Pale Revenant furrowed her brows.

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    "Seems like it. Make it quick," the War Princess whispered, a hint of worry in her eyes.

    "I''ll go now." Pale Revenant got up, ready to depart.

    "Right," the War Princess said, eyeing the <em>little girl</em> who didn''t even reach her chest, "Don''t tell them about Yun Xiao''s troubles. Just say he wants them to head to the Heavenly Realm and Divine Continent to spread the way of the sword. That''ll keep them from worrying. Especially those Sword Ruins folks; Yun Xiao''s counting on them to help propagate the art of swordsmanship in the Divine Continent."

    "Okay."

    "And after you''ve made the arrangements,e back here soon," she added.

    "Why''s that?" Pale Revenant looked up, puzzled.

    "Didn''t you always dream of leaving the Nine Hells for a broader world? He''s found you a ce, called the Oblivion Demon Sea," the War Princess exined.

    A spark of life shed in Pale Revenant''s eyes, reviving her spirit. "How do we get there?"

    "He should being to fetch us, then hand us a map, I guess?" The War Princess smirked.

    "A map will do," Pale Revenant paused. "Are you going to the Oblivion Demon Sea too?"

    "No," the War Princess replied.

    "He probably wants you at the Primordial Ruins, at his beck and call," Pale Revenant said softly.

    "Cough!" The War Princess choked, then protested, "What are you talking about? It''s not like that between him and me."

    Pale Revenant gave her a once-over, her gaze lingering on the War Princess'' unparalleled figure, then shook her head. "I don''t believe it. Yun Xiao is a man of passion; how could he resist?"

    The War Princess was left speechless for a moment before she urged Pale Revenant, "Hurry along with your task. I''m afraid if you''rete, my father will be dragged into the Primordial Ruins."

    "Goodbye." With those words, Pale Revenant turned and dove into a river, disappearing from the War Princess'' sight.

    After she was gone, the War Princess sighed and sat down, grumbling, "Damned fool, always sending people off to far ces alone, as if I''m some pig left to free-range!"

    "Nonsense, haven''t I always been with you?" a voice from her heart responded.

    The War Princess shuddered. She had forgotten; he was always there, like a shadow.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Divine Dawn Pavilion, in the dead of night¡­

    <em>HUM! </em>After devouring the resources from Dharma Crown Qin, Yun Xiao spent a solid two hours in seclusion. Through rigorous cultivation, his Genesis Spirit broke through two stages.

    "Perfect Genesis Spirit Realm," Yun Xiao eximed. His Worldly Dao Heart might be paving a brand new path, but hisprehension abilities and enlightenment were at an unprecedented level. It was just like with the Pr Yin Yang Art and the Primordial Triforce Sword Art. He could even understand the essence of lost and iplete techniques with just a nce.

    "Now that the Nine Hells are open, though the Three Immortals have barred cultivators from the Primordial Ruins from descending, they''ve set no checkpoints in the skies above. For those unafraid of death, freedomes easily."

    With the current host of situations, Yun Xiao decided it was time for the War Princess to <em>march</em> ahead. With Moon Fairy trapped within the Nian and the War Princess as his most crucial pawn, he requested two maps from Lian Xi.

    These maps vaguely indicated the directions to the Blood Devil Ruins and the Oblivion Demon Sea Abination of traveling and asking for directions should lead them there.

    Of course, Yun Xiao wouldn''t be at peace until he personally escorted them out of the Nine Hells.

    "Chilli Pepper, huh?" Yun Xiao mused, recalling the War Princess'' nickname and her spirited, fiery nature.

    "I must say, she and Lil Xi are two extremes," he reflected, consolidating his insights in the Perfect Genesis Spirit Realm before standing up.

    The training room shook like a wild beast was at work, dusting half of the Divine Dawn Pavilion with its tremors.

    As the door creaked open, there stood Lian Xi, drenched in sweat but smiling shyly at Yun Xiao, her voice sweet as honey, "Are you done with your cultivation? You must be tired. Come rest, and let me pour you some tea."

    "No need," Yun Xiao replied, sitting down and pulling her onto hisp, looking into her eyes, "Tea isn''t as sweet as you."

    "Ah, you''re making me blush," Lian Xi giggled, yfully punching Yun Xiao''s chest, which echoed with the sound of thunder, reminiscent of the roar of tigers and leopards.

    "Stop!" Yun Xiao gasped for air, his newly attained cultivation nearly undone by the flurry of yful punches.

    Once Lian Xi paused, Yun Xiao asked, "What were those folks talking about when they came in during my cultivation?"

    "Just now... Oh, the selection for a new Crown of the Mystic Zenith Temple," Lian Xi replied.

    "Crown selection? Tell me more," Yun Xiao urged.

    "It''s really the Mystic Zenith Temple''s business, not much to do with us. The elders just mentioned it to keep me informed. They''ve decided not to let disciples from the Academy Faction to participate, to avoid any negative impact before Three Immortals Day," Lian Xi exined.

    "Is that so? So, the Mystic Zenith Temple has someone in mind already?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "Not exactly," Lian Xi began, detailing the selection process to Yun Xiao and concluding, "The uncles said the Mystic Zenith Temple is using the passing of Dharma Crown Qin as an opportunity to hold the selection. The main goal is to elevate someone influential from the Three Immortals'' descendants within the Primordial Academy. Tian Zhixiu, being the president of the Pathseeker Society, is good but not as good as me. They n to gild him with the Crown title to boost his status."

    "Are the rules fair?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The rules are fair, but first, it''s hard for our Primordial Academy faction to win. Second, my master doesn''t want to cause a stir before Three Immortals Day. So, we''re all stepping back." Lian Xi bit her lip. "It''s a shame I''m just a few days away from turning 15 years old, or Tian Zhixiu wouldn''t stand a chance."

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    Yun Xiao chuckled at her words. "Well, I''m over 15. I think I''ll go stir up some trouble in our ce then."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "No need," Yun Xiao replied, sitting down and pulling her onto hisp, looking into her eyes, "Tea isn''t as sweet as you."</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 417: Let Us Congratulate the President!

    Chapter 417: Let Us Congratte the President!

    As dawn broke, the sun climbed high, turning the dense fog over the Primordial Ruins into a nket of gold.

    The streets buzzed with the day''s first prayers. Crowds surged through the marketces, heads bowed in devotion, united in their quest for ascension. The world inside the divine vessel was a sight of prosperity, as far as the eye could see.

    Yun Xiao seized the morning prayers¡ªa time when everyone was too busy bowing to notice¡ªto slip away from the Primordial Ruins and head back to the outskirts of the Nine Hells.

    It was then that Pale Revenant and the War Princess, just stepping out from the Nine Hells, stumbled upon him through the mist. Escaping had been easy for them, with the Three Immortals locked away in the Immortal Asylum.

    "This is for you." Yun Xiao handed a map to Pale Revenant, who epted it with solemn care, folding it neatly before thanking him with a deep bow.

    "Off you go. Stay safe," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "Mhm." Pale Revenant nodded, her eyes carrying a newfound belief after onest nce at Yun Xiao. She then turned, drifting into the fog as light as a cloud.

    "Pretty slick, letting the fish swim free," the War Princessmented, arms crossed, lips bitten.

    "Your turn now," Yun Xiao said, tossing another map her way.

    "I don''t worship you," the War Princess retorted, tucking the map away.

    "Seems like you''ve gotten out of line again in just two days," Yun Xiao said, stern-faced.

    The War Princess instinctively stepped back, then red at him. "You''re such a scarecrow, always frightening people."

    A brief silence fell.

    "Aren''t you worried, letting me go to that dangerous ce alone?" The War Princess pouted.

    "I''m always with you, aren''t I? Stop making a fuss," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Alright then." The War Princess shot him a look, her beautiful eyes shing. "Heartless man, lounging in paradise with beauties while I''m out in the wilderness, roughing it!"

    Yun Xiao was taken aback. "Where did you get the idea I have beauties in my arms?"

    "Don''t y dumb. You''ve got the smell of a woman on you, and from the looks of it, she''s fairly young." The War Princess chuckled.

    "Jealous?" Yun Xiao didn''t deny it but shot back with a question.

    "What are you on about? We''re on different sides of the divide, you and I. Human and devil¡­ Even if you win over my body with the Blood Base, you''ll never have my heart." The War Princess bit her lip.

    "I live in your heart, and I''ve never aimed to win it over," Yun Xiao said, amused.

    "Jerk..." The War Princess red at him. "I''m leaving! May your indulgences bleed you dry!"

    With that, she turned into a streak of blood and disappeared into the mist.

    "In such a hurry? I hadn''t finished talking," the voice in her heart said.

    "I can listen now," the War Princess replied.

    "Are you avoiding me because you''re afraid?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Avoiding, my foot. I just didn''t want to interrupt your fun," the War Princess said disdainfully.

    "In the end, you are jealous. A fiery maid falls for her innocent master¡ªit sounds like a soap opera," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Innocent your head, shameless!" the War Princess burst out.

    Yun Xiaoughed for a while before his tone became serious. "I heard there might still be wreckage from that devil ark that was sunk long ago in the Blood Devil Ruins. Let''s search for it together."

    "What do you mean together? I''m the only one taking the risks," the War Princess rolled her eyes.

    "My spirit is with you," Yun Xiao said.

    "Get lost."

    "Then I''m really heading back to the Primordial Ruins."

    "Good riddance."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Primordial Academy, the Pathseeker Society, with a membership of over a hundred, essentially oversaw everything for the academy''s disciples.

    This was an official organization of the academy, with its own venue, the Pathseeker Pce.

    With many towers and buildings, the Pathseeker Pce was predominantly silver and ck, giving off an atmosphere of solemnity and authority, hence its nickname the <em>Mini Mystic Zenith Temple</em>.

    Minor offenses by disciples were carried out and dealt with by the Pathseeker Society.

    So, among the tens of thousands of disciples in the academy, the influence of the Pathseeker Society was immense. Anyone who secured a position here could expect the support and ttery of hundreds, often bing a core figure in variousworking circles.

    At the Primordial Academy, disciples were ranked in ten tiers, and the entry ticket to the Pathseeker Society was being a Level 7 Ding disciple. That was a tall order for being just a regr member, showing just how revered the president of the society, Tian Zhixiu, was in the eyes of these young hopefuls.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Come dawn, the young talents of the Pathseeker Society had their routines, paying homage to the Three True Immortals and practicing their ascension techniques.

    After this morning ritual, today''s buzz at the Pathseeker Society was all about a task handed down from the Mystic Zenith Temple¡ªcollecting registration for the new Crown selection.

    So, the Pathseeker Pce and its outside square, the usual registration spot, were bustling more than usual. But the real party was happening inside.

    There, alive with music and dance, a private feast was being thrown by the descendants of the Three True Immortals. A line of tables was set with delicacies and the extremely precious Jade Sun Wine. A group was ying a melodious tune, while more than a dozen in feathered dresses performed the Spirit Fairy Dance.

    All performers, youngdies of grace and beauty, showed hints of nervousness beneath their youthful features.

    Amidst this delicate performance, the core members of the Pathseeker Society were having the time of their lives, raising their cups in high spirits.

    Center stage, Tian Zhixiu, in his light gold robe, sat with a subdued presence, sipping his wine quietly, nked by two young figures of almost equal stature.

    To his right was a youngdy dressed in a violet robe, her dignified aura marked by a natural elegance. A violet crescent moon, clearly her Life Sigil, glimmered on her forehead.

    "Ziyue, you''ve trained these girls pretty well," a ck-robed youth sitting to Tian Zhixiu''s leftmented. His legs were propped up on the table, wine in one hand and grapes in the other, thoroughly enjoying the performance.

    "Of course. In the Primordial Academy, you just have to y by the rules, and life will be good." Qin Ziyue replied, not partaking in the wine or feast, her interest in the performance seemingly absent.

    "Hey! I''ve got an idea!" The ck-robed youth chuckled. "For my birthday, Ziyue, do me a solid and send these girls over to my ce for a show for my buddies, will you?"

    Qin Ziyue gave him a chilling look. "Pity, though. They''re all students of the Primordial Academy."

    "That''s what makes it better!" heughed, clearly finding the situation amusing.

    Qin Ziyue and the ck-robed youth, Can Nian, served as the vice presidents of the Pathseeker Society. The former held the reins over many aspects of life for the female students. So, no female students dared to cross her. It wasn''t the fact that she could easily end a regr student''s life, but rather she would make the experience leading up to it a living hell.

    "Ziyue!" Can Nian''s eyes sparkled as he pointed at a petite girl among the performers. "How about her? I''ll have someone send her to my roomter, yeah?"

    Qin Ziyue rolled her eyes. "What, you''re picking lovers now?"

    "If she''s willing, it''s all good. Whether she''s lover material doesn''t matter," Can Nian grinned.

    "She''s got a fiery spirit. Might not be so keen," Qin Ziyue mentioned off-handedly.

    "And her dad?" Can Nian raised an eyebrow.

    "A Hundred-Man Commander of the Primordial Guards. Comes from a decent background," Qin Ziyue informed.

    "Easy. I''ll bump her dad up to a Thousand-Man Commander," Can Nian said with a sly smile.

    "Oh?" Qin Ziyue nced at him. "You''ve changed. Used to be you''d coerce them intopliance."

    "I''m over the teary, sobbing messes. I prefer the agreeable sort," Can Nian mused, taking a swig. "These days, it''s all about enticing them. Love to see these young ones, full of dreams, getting caught up in the allure of fame and fortune. Heh."

    "Can Nian." Tian Zhixiu, sitting between them, suddenly looked up, a slight frown creasing his brow.

    "Uh..." Can Nian quickly put his feet down, shing a grin at Tian Zhixiu. "You like her? Then I''ll have her sent to your room."

    "Just a heads-up," Tian Zhixiu''s voice came through with a gravity that could sink a ship. "Fun''s fun, but clean up after yourself. The birth celebration of the Three Immortals is upon us, and we can''t afford any scandals."

    "Got it. I''m on it," Can Nian replied, his usual grin giving way to a nod of serious agreement.

    But inside, he couldn''t help but grumble, "All because Dharma Crown Qin is no more, and you''re left with nowhere to stick your silvernce. Why take it out on me?"

    Thoughts stayed thoughts, for he wasn''t about to voice them. Instead, he raised his ss with a smile and toasted, "Brothers and sisters, thosepdogs at the Academy Faction didn''t even dare to sign up, absolutely hrious. Let''s toast to our president, soon to be the youngest Crown in the history of the Mystic Zenith Temple. Cheers to you!"

    "Cheers!"

    Inside the Pathseeker Pce, the music and dance soared, a picture of harmony and joy.

    A dozen girls, who came to the academy full of dreams, danced tirelessly, one routine after another, their cultivation forgotten. They dared not stop.

    The powerful, the elite, and the nobility watched with a mix of amusement and condescension, critiquing their eyes, smiles, figures, legs, feet, and fingers, theirughter burning through the air.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the Pathseeker Pce, a jade tform stood at the entrance, with a girl in a blue dress seated beside it. Her skirt shimmered like ice and snow, sparkling with starlight.

    She sat upright, a picture of grace, her eyes a pure white.

    Looking at her, one could see the resemnce to Tian Zhixiu. If he was considered handsome and heroic, she was breathtakingly beautiful.

    Perhaps that was why a group of men, members of the Pathseeker Society, surrounded her. They spoke eloquently, with an air of elegance...

    But no matter how well they behaved, it was clear as day: they were all vying for the favor of the girl beside the jade tform.

 Chapter 418: Pathseeker Society, See You Tomorrow!

    Chapter 418: Pathseeker Society, See You Tomorrow!

    "Miss Yuxue, all hundred or so Level 4 Ding disciples of our Pathseeker Society have registered. No one else dares topete with our president. We might as well close up shop now!" a young man in green robes reported.

    "The Mystic Zenith Temple has scheduled registration for half a day, and the time isn''t up yet," Qin Ziyue responded coldly with a nce.

    "That''s right."

    "No need to rush."

    "Though it''s unlikely anyone else wille, we are tasked with this duty and should adhere strictly to procedures."

    The other youths spoke up in session, making the bootlicking youth in green robes appear quite embarrassed.

    "Those from the Academy Faction are truly cowards."

    "I heard that people like Chi Yang and Yun Jin seem to have slipped away to the Blood Devil Ruins."

    "Always acting all high and mighty, but at the critical moment, they be aughingstock."

    "Miss Yuxue, the sun is shining pretty bright today. You must be hot. I have some Ice Spirit Water here, which calms the mind and body. Would you like to drink some?"

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    Hearing this, the girl called Tian Yuxue felt a buzzing in her ears.

    "Could you all please keep your distance?" she said coldly.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    These people were of no low status; their parents and Tian Yuxue''s parents were colleagues, seen both in lower and higher circles. Otherwise, she would have told them to scram.

    "Right, let Yuxue have some peace."

    The group then dispersed a bit.

    It was almost noon.

    "No one elseing at this time means Chi Yang has definitely given up. My brother is in the clear." Tian Yuxue nced at the position of the sun, ready to leave.

    Just then, an azure sword light descended from the sky.

    "Who?"

    Everyone looked up to see a peerless, handsome young man in the clouds above, holding a beauty as fair as a celestial maiden, descending from the sky on a Sovereign Sword.

    Lian Xi, the celestial beauty, and the man by her side, who drew scowls sharp enough to slice through steel from the assembly of disciples. Word had spread like wildfire about Yun Xiao being seen the night Dharma Crown Qin vanished. Whether the truth or a tall tale, it set the stage for scorn.

    Tian Yuxue,ying eyes on Yun Xiao for the first time, found herself caught in a whirlwind of thought. "This man''s charm is downright criminal," she mused, her lips parting in silent awe.

    With Lian Xi present, the young disciples tempered their malice, though it bubbled beneath the surface like a witch''s brew.

    Tian Yuxue''s admiration took a backseat as she remembered Yun Xiao was the thorn in the side of the Pathseeker Society, prompting her to switch gears. "Lian Xi, what brings you here?" she asked, provocation in her eyes.

    "He''s here to sign up for the Crown selection," Lian Xi said, as if she were talking about the weather.

    Silence immediately fell over the crowd. While every prodigy under the sun had given the event a wide berth, here was Yun Xiao, stepping into the lion''s den. Was he looking for a beating, or just lost?

    "This is Tian Yuxue," Lian Xi introduced, "The Pathseeker Society Spokeswoman."

    "Oh, she''s basically the public rtionsdy. Looks the part," Yun Xiao quipped, dropping his registration on her desk with a flourish. "Mind jotting my name down, esteemed spokeswoman?"

    "You¡­ If you have grievances with the Pathseeker Society, take it up with Dean Yu," Tian Yuxue snapped coldly.

    "I think you''re reading too much into it," Yun Xiao said with a smile, managing to look both innocent and infuriating.

    As Tian Yuxue sized him up, her heart skipped a beat, betraying her with a flush of warmth. "You sure you want to do this?" she managed, trying to sound stern.

    "I meet the criteria," Yun Xiao stated, "I''m eligible until proven guilty."

    "used of murder and still aiming to represent justice? You sure your head''s screwed on right?" Tian Yuxue couldn''t help but ask, her words sharp.

    "Last I checked, I haven''t been convicted," Yun Xiao retorted, his smile undimmed. "Let''s stick to the rules, shall we? Innocent until proven guilty."

    Tian Yuxue gave Yun Xiao another sharp look and said, "Just so you know, everyone else in the selection is one of ours... except you."

    "No need to warn me. We''re not friends," Yun Xiao replied.

    "You¡­!" Tian Yuxue was fuming. She also wanted Yun Xiao dead. But the Crown selection was a solemn affair, and she didn''t want him tarnishing it with his presence. Still, signing up was his right, not a favor.

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    Switching gears with a smirk, she teased, "So, you''re really trying to be a Crown?"

    "What do you think?"

    "I''ve heard you''ve been ying coy, hiding your true power. So, what level are you pretending to be at now?" Tian Yuxue asked, her tone ice cold.

    "I could take you down easily," Yun Xiao remarked casually.

    A disciple snickered, "Dream on. You''re nothing but a slug.

    "Shut it," both Yun Xiao and Tian Yuxue snapped at him in unison.

    Tian Yuxue, undeterred, pressed on, "You''ve got some nerve signing up. I''ll give you that."

    "And?"

    Tian Yuxue couldn''t help butugh. "But it baffles me. How does someone who scored zero on the entrance exam''s written part think they canpete in a selection that''s heavily based on written tests?"

    "What, it''s all academic again?" Yun Xiao turned to Lian Xi, looking stumped.

    "Not exactly," she paused, "But the questions are tougher, all about legal principles..."

    Tian Yuxue scoffed, "Half the score''s from written tests. With another zero, you won''t even make it to thebat round. Don''t waste your time¡ªor mine. Get lost."

    Yun Xiao took a moment, then with a steely gaze, told Tian Yuxue, "Save it. I''m signing up."

    "This time, the written tests will be public, for all to see," Tian Yuxue warned, "Ready to embarrass yourself with that brilliant intellect of yours?"

    Before she could finish, a voice from the entrance of the academy called out, "Yuxue, let him sign up."

    Without looking back, she knew it was her brother''s voice.

    Tian Yuxue, without further ado, scribbled Yun Xiao''s name onto the roster and temporarily confiscated his disciple token.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see a pack of youths, thick with menace and cold stares, perched at the grand entrance of the academy. Center stage were Tian Zhixiu, Can Nian, and Qin Ziyue.

    "Hey bro," Can Nian said with a raised brow, "You''ve got till dawn before the selection begins. Best cram in some culture and polish that charm. Only the top 32 in the written test make it to thebat round. I''m itching to see how youe back from this one. Don''t disappoint."

    "Vice President, you''re being too hard on him. A roughneck from the sticks can only polish so much," a burly youth with a beard sneered.

    Hearing this, Tian Yuxue couldn''t hold her tongue. "Take a look in the mirror before calling others roughnecks!"

    The sudden outburst was as surprising as it was refreshing. Even Qin Ziyue even shot her a bewildered nce. But that was merely an interlude.

    Yun Xiao, giving the crowd a brief once-over, said nothing more than, "See you tomorrow."

    Then, he turned to leave.

    "Wait," Lian Xi suddenly called out, spotting someone among the group. "Lil Xiu, what are you doing here?"

    Behind Can Nian, a nervous young girl nched. "The Vice President... she¡­ we... we were told to dance..."

    "You girls,e with me," Lian Xi said, ncing at Qin Ziyue.

    "I... I..." the girl stammered.

    The message was clear. The young girls here could leave today, but their families, tied to the Primordial Ruins, would never escape the influence of the Three True Immortals and their descendants.

    "Let''s go!" Yun Xiao abruptly spoke.

    "Okay¡­" The group of young girls, lips quivering and legs trembling, walked past the young geniuses of the Pathseeker Society. Their eyes were red and tearful, careful not to let the people on the stage behind them see.

    Watching the girls leave, the eyes of the Pathseeker Society members held nothing but cold indifference.

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    Once the girls were away from the academy, Lil Xiu panicked, "We might be safe today, but what about tomorrow? Tomorrow..."

    Yun Xiao, standing aside, casually remarked, "Don''t fret about tomorrow. You know, others don''t even get a tomorrow."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 419: You Really Are Murder Crazy

    Chapter 419: You Really Are Murder Crazy

    Not long after, Yun Xiao found his way back to the Divine Dawn Pavilion, standing in the courtyard with a slight frown creasing his brow.

    "What''s the matter?" Lian Xi asked with concern.

    Yun Xiao, clearly a bit miffed, said, "You go and gather all the books onws and principles from the Primordial Academy, and don''t forget those scrolls from the Mystic Zenith Temple, anything that''s got to do with tomorrow''s literary exam. Fetch them all for me."

    Lian Xi couldn''t help but crack a smile. "Is it because you scored a zerost time? Now you''re in a huff, nning to wreak havoc?"

    "It''s just writing a few essays about having the moral high ground, what''s the big deal?" Yun Xiao replied nonchntly.

    This, perhaps, was also a part of the human cultivation journey.

    "I''ll get ready then."

    In half an hour, Lian Xi had amassed a pile of books that filled the stone table in the pavilion.

    "You''re a prodigy who could beat Uncle Feng right after joining. I believe a small literary exam is no challenge for you," Lian Xi said, all smiles.

    Yun Xiao picked up a few books, nced through them, and said, "It''s all about saying the right thing to the right person. I can kill A and B but not C and D? I can write that in the exam, but when ites to action, I''ll y them all the same."

    "Jeez, you''re always so murder crazy," Lian Xi remarked, sticking out her tongue lightly.

    "Am I?" Yun Xiao paused, surprised.

    "Yes," Lian Xi nodded.

    "Maybe it''s because I get angry more easily than others," Yun Xiao said.

    "That shows you have a sense of justice, getting angry at injustice," Lian Xi earnestly said.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh, shaking his head. "That''s giving me too much credit. I''m selfish. Everything I want to do, everything I do, in the end, it''s all for myself."

    After saying this, he nced at Lian Xi and gently pinched her cheek. "That''s where you and I differ. You live to give, without a thought for yourself."

    "What..." Lian Xi paused, momentarily lost.

    "Never mind, I''m off to read." With a slight smile, Yun Xiao then immersed himself in the sea of books. He read swiftly, a page dense with information per breath, his expression solemn.

    Thews and cases documented in the books were a microcosm of humanity itself. People, objects, emotions, conflicts¡ªall wereid bare on these pages.

    He read with meticulous care, while Lian Xi, ever so quietly, took out a wine jug, topping up Yun Xiao''s cup on the table.

    "When we first met, he hadn''t even formed a Genesis Spirit, and everyone thought he was just hiding his strength. Little did they know, he''s been making rapid breakthroughs these past few days," Lian Xi thought to herself while pouring the wine.

    Even she found it hard to read this <em>partner</em> from her dreams. How did he do it? Lian Xi didn''t know. But slowly, a sense of reassurance filled her heart.

    "Tiger Rod Wine?" Yun Xiao paused after a sip.

    "I heard you liked itst time, so I had someone get it," Lian Xi said with a slight smile.

    "That''s like digging your own grave," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Why''s that?" Lian Xi asked, curious.

    "This wine boosts vitality."

    "..." Lian Xi fell speechless. Blushing, she set the wine jug on the table and dashed back to her cultivation room, from which soon came a tremendous rumble. Back to training she went!

    From noon till nightfall, Yun Xiao finally finished reading all the books and scrolls.

    "With a reading of ten thousand books, writinges as if divinely inspired. From now on, no one can preach morality over me. I alone am the unparalleled moral exemr!" Yun Xiao couldn''t deny, settling down to read was beneficial.

    After so many stories, his Worldly Dao Heart and even his Genesis Spirit seemed to have undergone trials, bing more profound and weighted.

    "Now, time to cultivate!" Yun Xiao said, retrieving some Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    Red Moon had devoured everything Dharma Crown Qin owned, from the pills, talismans, Immortal Jades, to even magic treasures. It gnawed on everything, turning them into the purest Heavenly Dao Sariras in the end. Only the vors varied.

    "Why does this Heavenly Dao Sarira taste like a woman?" Yun Xiao mused, swallowing a handful of ck beads.

    "That idiot Reddy went and ate her clothes too," Blue Star said, rolling his eyes.

    "Dammit! Really!?" Yun Xiao''s vision darkened.

    "Who are you calling an idiot?" Red Moon retorted irritably.

    "You, obviously." Blue Star chuckled.

    "Well, since I''m you too, I guess the idiot is calling himself an idiot!" Red Moon burst intoughter, holding his belly.

    "Damn¡­ Why do you have a brain in times like these¡­?" Blue Star was so shocked he almost fainted on the spot. Being made a fool by a fool was possibly the greatest shame of his life, causing him to scream his lungs out in utter humiliation.

    "He got you there." Yun Xiao clicked his tongue, expressing his disdain.

    "Stop it, darn it! Ahhh!" Blue Star, regretting his words, spat out more Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    Pure energy surged into Yun Xiao''s Dantian, and the nine primordial suns orbiting within him grew once more.

    "My Genesis Spirit has reached the peak of this realm. I''m in the Establishment stage, finally!" Yun Xiao remarked. He was just one step away from the Saint Wheel Realm! That was thest great realm before the transformation of his sacred power!

    "Like this, advancing to the Saint Wheel Realm tomorrow should be no problem," Yun Xiao muttered to himself.

    In fact, he''d advanced quite rapidly in the Primordial Ruins over these past couple days. From the Heaven Sanctuary Realm straight to the Establishment Genesis Spirit Realm, that was almost two whole realms!

    Basically, Yun Xiao was having four to five breakthroughs every day! A day of progress for him equaled many years of cultivation for others!

    With this, he was pretty much ready for the Crown selection.

    As dawn broke, Lian Xi was already waiting for him outside the pavilion.

    "It''s time to leave," she reminded.

    "Ah, okay. Hmm?" Yun Xiao shook the wine jug of Tiger Rod Wine. It was already empty. He shook his head, stood up, straightened his clothes, and asked, "Where''s the location?"

    "The Mystic Zenith Temple''s Square of Righteous Law. After the news of your registration spread yesterday, there might be tens of thousands of spectators today," Lian Xi said.

    "Fine by me. I like a big audience," Yun Xiao said with a grin.

    "They all want to see how someone who scored zero on the written portion of the academy''s entrance exam will fare in this selection..." Lian Xi remarked softly.

    At that, Yun Xiao fell silent. With a hum, his Sword Soul transformed into a six-foot Sovereign Sword, rising into the air. He leaped onto the sword, then said to Lian Xi, "Let''s go, I''ll take you flying."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Square of Righteous Law in the Mystic Zenith Temple was packed with a sea of people. Most of them were students. Gathered in small groups, they kept their distance and whispered among themselves, with strange expressions on their faces.

    "Yun Xiao''s life is really something. He''s only been at the academy for a couple of days, but he sticks his nose in everything."

    "And somehow, he always ends up in the spotlight..."

    "My granny says when someone''s as odd as he is, they must have some kind of destiny. Let''s not mock him today; pure support!"

    "Let''s mock those noble kids in the Pathseeker Society instead!"

    "Such a trashy bunch."

    "Especially Can Nian and Qin Ziyue. One''s a big jerk who bullies others with his family''s power, and the other''s a snooty brat. Pah!"

    "Guys, guys, mock all you want, but don''t cross the line. That''s straight-up insulting, and you don''t want the Three Immortal Lineage hearing...¡±

    "Besides, honestly, even if you think Yun Xiao can step on them, it''s just sour grapes. Why bother?"

    Whispers swirled, an undercurrent of tension in the air.

    At the focal point of intense gazes, over a hundred disciples from the Pathseeker Society had already taken their ces in the center.

    Led by those of the highest cultivation, this group of well-dressed youths, each more distinguished and imposing than thest, also appeared cultured and courteous, the very picture of promising leaders.

    The rest looked on with a mix of difort, resentment, jealousy¡­ and indeed, envy. Power, it was something everyone criticized yet secretly wished to wield themselves.

    So, their views on the Pathseeker Society were a mix of yearning and disdain, a peculiar blend indeed.

    Many harbored secret resentments, brimming with righteous indignation, yet if the Pathseeker Society offered them a spot, they''d elbow their way in with more fervor than the rest.

    "The Temple Head has arrived!"

    The buzz of the Square of Righteous Law hushed to a silence.

    Under the gaze of thousands, a red-robed woman, crowned with a wild mane, descended from the heavens with a few Crowns in tow, taking their seats upon a high tform.

    The temperature of the entire square seemed to plunge to freezing point.

    Many who had just mocked the Pathseeker Society now sealed their lips tight, hardly daring to lift their heads.

    "Are Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong, the two Sacred Sages, also here?"

    "They must be among today''s examiners!"

    "That should ensure fairness..."

    "Not really! With only the descendants of the Three True Immortals participating in the Crown selection, don''t you think your understanding of fairness is a bit skewed?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Indeed, many noticed.

    The bald and burly Yun Dahe, along with the remarkably haired Feng Qingcong, were seated to the left and right of the red-robed woman.

    "Previous Crown selections were overseen by the Temple Lord and nine Crowns. This time it''s the Temple Lord, seven Crowns, and two Sacred Sages?"

    "The Mystic Zenith Temple is just putting on a show."

    "Indeed, adding two Sacred Sages makes the inside deal appear more <em>convincing.</em>"

    Such murmurs were whispered even more softly.

    "This time it''s indeed grand, guests have arrived too?"

    Many nced towards the east, where amidst the mists, a group was seen gracefully descending to the square, taking their seats on another high tform.

    Over thirty folks in total, all powerhouses from the Three Great Ruins, made their appearance.

    "Wee, three Celestial Officials, and all guests," Si Qing dered, keeping things sinct. She opted for <em>all guests</em> for those ranked below her, a crisp way to bundle the introductions.

    The visitors from the Three Great Ruins offered smiles, but kept their peace. Among them, the three Celestial Officials indeed stole the show.

    "Is that Celestial Official in the middle the mother of Tian Zhixiu?" someone whispered.

    "Yes, that''s Tian Yn."

    The younger male disciples couldn''t help but steal nces, finding themselves a tad thirsty. Tian Yn, dressed in a gold and white gown, exuded dignity and grace, a mature charm with natural-born nobility and loftiness that mere mortals couldn''t touch.

    Besides Tian Yn, there were two more Celestial Officials. One was an elder in a violet robe, known as Celestial Official Qin, the brother of the recently in Dharma Crown Qin.

    And Qin Ziyue was his granddaughter.

    Thest Celestial Official, a man with disheveled hair, sat drunkenly, his face flushed, his posture askew, yet his smile and seemingly carefree demeanor hid an unfathomable depth.

    "The Pathseeker Society''s top brass are here, and so are their folks."

    "Tian Yn, Qin Zheng, Jiu Jiankuang¡ªtop-tier Celestial Officials from the Three Great Ruins..."

    "What a lofty heritage, truly."

    With the guests seated, it signaled the Crown selection was about tomence.

    "Where''s Yun Xiao?" Feng Qingcong, seated on the tform, casually inquired.

 Chapter 420: Civil And Martial Learning!

    Chapter 420: Civil And Martial Learning!

    "Uncle Feng, we''re here." Without any shy entrance, Lian Xi emerged from the crowd, pushing Yun Xiao forward.

    Yun Xiao stepped onto the stage. He stood alone, while next to him were over a hundred members of the Pathseeker Society, their disdain palpable.

    The contrast was striking. Ordinary people couldn''t withstand such confrontation, yet Yun Xiao was asposed as if he had everything under control, his demeanor light and breezy.

    Despite this, the tens of thousands present could still sense the intense rivalry in the air between him and the Pathseeker Society.

    "To stand alone against over a hundred descendants of the Three True Immortals from the Pathseeker Society, regardless of the oue, just this courage alone is worthy of our admiration."

    Many regr disciples voiced this sentiment. They too had the eligibility to sign up. But everyone had assumed it was predetermined, so no one bothered to make a futile effort.

    "Only a fool or a freak would take on such a challenge under these circumstances."

    What exactly was Yun Xiao? The answer would be revealed today.

    "The written exam begins, take your seats." The woman in the red robes wasted no words, her efficiency as sharp as thunder.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The crowd tensed up.

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    Hundreds of young individuals ascended a high tform for an open-air examination.

    The members of the Pathseeker Society asionally nced at Yun Xiao with cold, murderous looks.

    "Aim for the top 32, you brute," Can Nian expressed mockingly as he sat down beside Yun Xiao.

    "A barbarian trying to study literature and philosophy is nothing but a monkey in fancy clothes." A burly bearded youth sitting next to Can Nian clicked his tongue with disdain.

    As they spoke, Yun Xiao had already started going over the written exam. It consisted of five pages, each with a question.

    ¡¸<em>1. Discuss the historical merits and demerits of the Martial Emperor n.</em>¡¹

    "Great question!" Yun Xiao was amused. "For this question, not showing enough disdain for the Martial Emperor''s lineage won''t score high. Of course, after a <em>rational</em> judgment, one must also stand on the moral high ground andment for the world."

    How to thoroughly tarnish a hero? The Mystic Zenith Temple had the answer. Their smear campaign wasprehensive, even making its way into the indoctrinating questions of promotion exams.

    Dare to answer that the Martial Emperor''s lineage captured the Blood Devil''s Ark and achieved unparalleled greatness? You likely wouldn''t make it out of the exam room alive.

    After hundreds of years like this, even a saint would be riddled with holes.

    At this moment, Yun Xiao transformed into the moral judge of the Primordial Ruins, starting from the cause and clues of that great war, unraveling the truth without directly denigrating, yet emphasizing the suffering of themon people over and over again in his words. He didn''t curse the Martial Emperor''s lineage, but he stripped them of their backbone.

    "Lian Xi couldn''t answer this question. I''m hypocritical enough, I can." Yun Xiao started writing, his pen moving fluidly, and 10,000 words flowed out, each sentence logical and well-founded.

    "To understand the human heart and past events is to cultivate the Heavenly Dao?" Yun Xiao murmured to himself, immersed in this mundane world, having witnessed many absurdities. "Let the so-called history be written by future generations, who see nothing, and are led by the nose before their pens even touch the paper."

    Yun Xiaoughed with a hint of helplessness. However, this did not affect his speed. Once, he would have answered, "Kill them all! No exnation needed!", for every question, but today, his discussion for each problem started at 10,000 words.

    These questions were very interesting.

    ¡¸<em>2. Some say the Three Immortals are True Immortals, what do you think?</em>¡¹

    How to answer this question? It was full of traps. The written exam papers would be public, amounting to a public examination of loyalty and spirituality.

    For this reason, as Yun Xiao held his pen in both hands, answering two questions at once with great speed, many people panicked.

    "Lian Xi, he''s not writing nonsense, is he?"

    "Please don''t write anything bad about the Three Immortals, that would be serious¡­"

    Many sneaked over, nervously speaking to Lian Xi.

    "It''s fine, I tutored himst night. He''s quite enlightened now," Lian Xi said. Though she said so, her heart was also pounding. What should be done in such a situation? She could imagine it now.

    <em>Some say the Three Immortals are True Immortals. What do you think? </em>Yun Xiao''s response¡ªKill them all! No exnation needed!

    Just thinking about it gave Lian Xi a headache. As she nursed her throbbing head, the chilling promation of the woman in the red robes startled her.

    "The written exam is over, hand in your papers."

    As these words were spoken, Yun Xiao penned thest character. Others had finished writing earlier but hesitated to hand in their papers prematurely.

    The burly bearded youth nced over at Yun Xiao and chuckled. "Wrote that much? Surely you weren''t just repeating your own name?"

    Yun Xiao gave him a look and simply said, "Idiot."

    "You¡­ Vulgar! A brute of lower worlds!" The burly bearded youth picked up his own paper, noting the elegant and neat handwriting that starkly contrasted with his rugged appearance.

    Soon, all the papers were collected.

    The Temple Head, two Sacred Sages, and seven Crowns publicly graded the papers, discarding the highest and lowest scores to average the rest.

    "Hey¡­" Lian Xi, hardly daring to breathe, clutched Yun Xiao''s arm and asked, "You didn''t write, "Kill them all! No exnation needed!", again, did you?"

    "Don''t worry, today I''m a paragon of virtue, enlightenment off the charts," Yun Xiao cheerfully replied.

    Lian Xi, feeling anxious, gripped his hand, showing her skepticism.

    The grading was random, and supposedly, the names were hidden, so the examiners didn''t know who answered each question until the final scores were tallied.

    The entire process took about an hour.

    "Seems like the answers were not too bad?" Yun Dahe nced at Feng Qingcong.

    "On my end, I didn''t see anything outrageous. A few papers even received <em>very good</em> marks. I wonder which disciple it was," Feng Qingcong said.

    "Let''s reveal the names and calcte the scores," the Temple Head suggested.

    "Alright." The two were actually hoping Yun Xiao would advance to thebat round.

    The two Sacred Sages, along with the seven Crowns, piled up the papers of the same individual to add and calcte the scores.

    It didn''t take long before Yun Dahe suddenly eximed in shock, "I must be seeing ghosts!"

    "What?" The other Crowns gathered around.

    "This person''s average score across the five questions reached 48 points, with three questions receiving full marks from everyone..." Yun Dahe said, stupefied.

    "With a max score of 50, getting 48 points, this level of enlightenment is indeed rare in history..." Feng Qingcong said, then looked at Yun Dahe with some confusion. He didn''t understand why high scores would be shocking.

    "Which genius?" one of the Crowns said with a smile as he took the papers from Yun Dahe''s hands.

    "Heaven... Yun Xiao???" The Crown stood as if struck by lightning. His shock and stupor immediately spread to the tens of thousands present, each mirroring his expression.

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    "He got 48 points?"

    Instantly, everyone''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    Lian Xi was also dumbfounded.

    "You couldn''t possibly be in league with them, could you?" In her understanding, only a direct descendant of the Three Immortals could possess such <em>supreme enlightenment</em>.

    "Blind your eyes, seal your minds, paint your hearts ck, and anyone can be a descendant of the Three Immortals," Yun Xiao said with profound meaning.

    Everyone was shocked. Only he, himself, was not surprised in the least. Murder and arson he could do, standing on the victor''s side to wield his pen with authority and maneuver through history, he was also capable. This is what it meant to be a true all-around genius.

    When all scores were published, Yun Xiao was first with 48 points, the second ce, Qin Ziyue, had 45 points, and Tian Zhixiu was third with 44 points, trailing Yun Xiao by four points.

    "Let''s see the papers!" The burly bearded youth, dazed all this while, quickly went to examine the posted exams. The scoring was reasoned and fair, showcasing the fairness of the process.

    The burly bearded youth found Yun Xiao''s paper and stepped forward to take a look. After reading it, he looked bewildered and muttered, "Damn it."

    He scored only 29 points, putting him precisely in 32nd ce!

    In his area of expertise, he was defeated by an outsider, and he couldn''t help but ask Can Nian, "Could this guy be someone''s illegitimate child?"

    Can Nian gave him a cold nce, "Huyan Qing, don''t mind it. Him entering thebat round is a good thing."

    "True." The burly bearded youth, Huyan Qing, nodded deeply.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above the Mystic Zenith Temple, amidst the clouds, a white lotus tform hovered gently, invisible to all. On the tform, a woman with white hair sat cross-legged. The breeze blew, her white hair fluttering.

    "Shen Cang, since you''vee, why not show yourself?" she suddenly said.

    From the clouds beside the lotus tform, an elder in grey robes slowly emerged. He floated in the air like a dull yellow leaf.

    "What do you think?" Dean Yu asked the grey-robed elder.

    "Quite ruthless, this essay. If the ancestors of my n read it, they would crawl out of their graves to weep," the grey-robed elder said with a mix ofughter and tears.

    "The key is he''s on our side," Dean Yu said cheerfully.

    "A talent," the grey-robed elder remarked, then frowned slightly, "But are you sure he really stands with us?"

    "Let''s see," Dean Yu pursed her lips, a slight smile forming, "It''s quite interesting to watch now."

    "A guy who wrote, ¡®Kill them all. No exnation needed!¡¯, upon entering the Primordial Academy for just two days, has be a messenger of justice. Even the King of Hell would have to kneel before him to atone for his sins," the grey-robed elder joked.

    "Do you mean his heart has changed?" Dean Yu asked.

    "What do you think?" the grey-robed elder countered.

    Dean Yu raised an eyebrow, slowly saying, "The martialpetition will tell."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "The martialpetition begins!" the red-robed woman dered!

    The rules of the martialpetition were simple¡ª32 contestants, one-on-one battles, to ultimately decide the champion of the martialpetition.

    The champion would receive 50 points.

    Second ce would score 45 points.

    The top four earned 40 points.

    The top eight received 30 points.

    The top sixteen got 20 points.

    The top thirty-two were awarded 10 points.

    The highest scorer in both the written exam and the martialpetition would be a Crown.

    "Based on the written exam rankings, Yun Xiao only surpassed Tian Zhixiu by four points. If Tian Zhixiu wins the martialpetition and scores 50 points, he could still be a Crown."

    "That''s stating the obvious. The position of Crown is pre-determined by the Mystic Zenith Temple; what''s the use of an outsider like Yun Xiao entering?"

    "He has already shed the Mr. Zerobel in the written exam, which is a win for him. The martialpetition is not his main focus."

    As the disciples buzzed with discussion, the martialpetitionmenced without dy.

    "The first battle, the top scorer of the written exam versus the thirty-second ce."

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The gaze of tens of thousands fell upon Yun Xiao and the burly bearded youth, Huyan Qing, as they entered the arena.

    "Begin!"

    The crowd held its breath.

    "Huyan Qing is at the Perfect Saint Wheel Realm, one stage higher than Huyan Pin."

    Under the illumination of the Primordial Ruins¡¯ sun, the twobatants were enveloped in a golden light.

    "It''s not easy, you''ve gone from a barbaric brute to an enlightened paragon of virtue?" Huyan Qing sneered as he summoned his Sword Soul.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao didn''t waste his words. He immediately raised his hand, and his Flying Sword struck out.

    "The sword disappeared?" Huyan Qing was startled.

    <em>PUFF! </em>An azure sword tip pierced through the back of his skull, emerging from his mouth.

    It appeared as though an azure Flying Sword had grown out of it.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The Flying Sword pulled back, carrying blood, tonsils, tongue, and teeth with it, returning to Yun Xiao''s hand.

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    Yun Xiao sheathed his sword and walked off the field.

    "Sorry, I''m still a brute."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 421: Not My Fault. He Was Too Weak!

    Chapter 421: Not My Fault. He Was Too Weak!

    <em>THUD! </em>Huyan Qing opened his arms wide, tilting his head back as he fell. Streams of ck blood flowed out from the back of his head.

    The martialpetition had just begun, the atmosphere intense, yet in less than three breaths'' time, silence reigned once again.

    Tens of thousands of academy disciples were still immersed in the virtuous image portrayed by Yun Xiao''s five essays¡­ But before them now, was a butcher who had pierced a head with a single sword!

    "Murder in the selection for a new Crown?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In unison, the crowd turned their gaze towards the red-robed woman and the seven Crowns.

    "Huyan Qing!" Can Nian emerged in the arena.

    Huyan Qing''s eyes widened in shock, dying with disbelief, unable to close his eyes in death.

    Can Nian''s pale eyes surged with ck and gold sword light! He had ordered Huyan Qing to deal with Yun Xiao directly in the martialpetition, but to his surprise, Huyan Qing was the one who was dealt with in the blink of an eye.

    This was the Mystic Zenith Temple! The stronghold of the Three Immortals Lineage in the Primordial Academy! How could they just let it go?

    Can Nian abruptly turned, his gaze sternly fixed on Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao acted as if nothing had happened, chatting andughing with Lian Xi in the crowd.

    "Not going to deal with it?" Can Nian looked towards the elders.

    "Temple Head." At that moment, the dignified and elegant woman, Tian Yn, asked in a soft voice, "Is it permissible to kill at will during the Mystic Zenith Temple''s Crown selection?"

    "I''ll answer that." Before the red-robed woman could speak, Yun Xiao, upon hearing her voice, turned towards this noble woman and said, "The selection for a new Crown, as an official contest of the Primordial Academy, naturally entails risks. Swords and spears do not have eyes; injuries and deaths aremon. If one fears death, they are free to withdraw from the contest and notpete."

    Tian Yn did not expect such a junior to publicly respond to her inquiry. She stood above, her gaze pressing down upon Yun Xiao from high to low. Her red lips parted slightly, her voice turning cold as she said, "But everyone can see, you were not simply dueling. You intentionally killed him."

    "Heh." Yun Xiao chuckled lightly. "You are mistaken. I simply didn''t expect this so-called genius of the Pathseeker Society to be so weak that he couldn''t even catch a single sword strike."

    Such bold words! With the mention of the Pathseeker Society, the expressions of the hundred top disciples of the Primordial Academy darkened further.

    And upon the tform, ayer of frost seemed to form over Tian Yn''s noble visage.

    Yun Xiao knew who this great beauty''s son was.

    "A mother and son, huh? Ling Chen''s favorite."

    s, Ling Chen was no more.

    "Temple Head," Tian Yn, no longer addressing Yun Xiao, turned to the red-robed woman. "This insolent fool cannot be educated, stirring up discord within the Primordial Academy. If he is not dealt with, it will be hard tomand respect."

    Yun Xiao, seizing the moment before the red-robed woman could speak, dered loudly, "The primary principle of the Mystic Zenith Temple has always been to act ording to thew. It''s not the ce of an outsider like you to interfere."

    "How dare you!"

    As soon as Yun Xiao''s words were out, whether it was the guests from the Three Great Ruins or the Pathseeker Society geniuses, they could no longer contain their fury. Immense immortal pressure swept over, intending to crush Yun Xiao.

    "Am I wrong?" Yun Xiao looked towards the red-robed woman. "The selection for a new Crown is a matter for the Mystic Zenith Temple of the Primordial Academy. Whether killing is permitted is for the temple''sws to decide. My actionsply with thew. You are just here to watch. Don''t think about sticking your noses into the affairs of Primordial Academy. This is a sacred ce of learning!"

    "Silence." The red-robed woman, peering through her cloak, red at Yun Xiao before addressing Tian Yn again. "The Mystic Zenith Temple acts ording to thew. Should there be any breach, it will be judged ordingly. Rest assured."

    Hearing this, the disciples couldn''t help but admire Yun Xiao. The very foundation of the Mystic Zenith Temple was thew, and no one could publicly bend it for personal gain.

    Yet, everyone understood that Yun Xiao was directly challenging the Pathseeker Society and their backing. This enmity was deepening; how would it end?

    That was the key. Everyone could talk big. The real test depended on one''s abilities!

    With the Temple Head having spoken, Tian Yn had effectively lost face. Her expression remained calm, but anger surely burned within her heart.

    Seeing this, Yun Xiao quipped, "Let the younger generation resolve their own matters. To rely on one''s age and position to bully others will only invite ridicule and disdain."

    With those words spoken, the Square of Righteous Law fell into an even deeper silence.

    The eyes of the hundred members of the Pathseeker Society turned even colder. Never before had anyone dared to challenge their pride like this. Not even the likes of Chi Yang and Yun Jin, among the other youths of the Academy Faction, had the courage to do so when gathered together!

    "This kid speaks well," the disheveled man said. He was the Celestial Official, Jiu Jiankaung, otherwise known as the Drunken Mad Sword. He leaned in, drunkenly addressing his Tian Yn, "Let the children''s matters be resolved by the children themselves. We should not intervene. By the same token, their elders should also refrain from meddling."

    After saying this, the Drunken Mad Sword extended two fingers, pointing at Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong, chuckling, "The martialpetition has just begun. This kid has blocked his own retreat; I want to see how he survives."

    What he meant was, by Yun Xiao dering that the younger generation should resolve their issues, people like Yun Dahe could no longer protect him. Otherwise, these parents of the Pathseeker Society members would beplete pushovers.

    Beside him, Celestial Official Qin also added, "Young people need to grow and stand on their own. Some hurdles must be crossed by themselves. Theye from the most pinnacle origins of the lower worlds, destined to be invincible. If they fall in a public arena, they can''t me anyone but their own ipetence."

    "Enough," Tian Yn said indifferently.

    "You did this on purpose?" The Drunken Mad Sword raised an eyebrow.

    Tian Yn pursed her lips, "Without a bit of cunning, how could we lure this child into the trap? After all, this is the domain of Dean Yu."

    "Indeed." The Drunken Mad Sword looked towards the arena, "The fighting spirit and murderous intent of the children have been fully ignited."

    Tian Yn also looked over. Among the crowd, her children, Tian Zhixiu and Tian Yuxue, were naturally the most furious. How could they tolerate Yun Xiao''s disrespect towards their mother?

    Though Tian Zhixiu remained silent, those familiar with him knew that his silence signified the deepest murderous intent.

    "Brother, don''t worry, he will likely face me. I must tear out his tongue," Tian Yuxue''s eyes reddened with blood.

    "Yuxue, you might as well leave him to me. You''re too kind; you don''t y dirty," Can Nian whispered nearby.

    "No! I can''t stand to see that scoundrel''s smug face for another moment!" Tian Yuxue felt maddened. Why did she ever find someone like him handsome?

    The 30 descendants of the Three Immortals participating in the martialpetition were all holding back their frustration.

    The tens of thousands of academy disciples watching felt the solemn atmosphere and grew tense as well.

    Then, the remaining battles of the round of 32 proceeded in quick session. The focus was all on Yun Xiao, so these top disciples of the Pathseeker Society fought carelessly, and more than a dozen battles ended in a short while.

    Immediately, the round of 16 began!

    As expected, the first to battle were Yun Xiao and Tian Yuxue.

    "Brother, it''s my turn," Tian Yuxue said, looking back at the indifferent young man.

    "You should forfeit. Let Can Nian handle it," Tian Zhixiu seriously suggested.

    "No! He disrespected our mother. I want to teach him a lesson!" Tian Yuxue stubbornly shook her head.

    "You''ve made your choice," Tian Zhixiu said.

    "Don''t underestimate me!" Tian Yuxue, also a Martial Cultivator from the Sky Source Ruins,nded in the arena like a colossal beast of ice, her body surging with frost.

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>As she stepped onto the ground, the entire battlefield''s surface froze over with thick ice, sending a bone-chilling cold toward Yun Xiao.

    The Temple Head, Crowns, guests, Pathseeker Society members, and tens of thousands of disciples all stopped their discussions to watch them.

    "Why do you have to kill in the Crown selection? How did Huyan Qing offend you?" Tian Yuxue stared at him.

    "He called me uneducated, a barbaric brute," Yun Xiao said.

    "Just for that, you take his life? Are you an unforgivable murderer?" Tian Yuxue''s anger made her nose turn red.

    Yun Xiao nced at her, amused, "You''re a flower surrounded by sin; of course, you wouldn''t understand."

    "Surrounded by sin? To hell with that, my family is happy! You are the embodiment of sin!" Unable to tolerate any more, Tian Yuxue suddenly produced a long spear in her hand, longer than her petite frame, entirely in ice blue with snow-like mes burning on it, exuding a terrifying divine might.

    This was the Burning Snow Jade Spear, rumored to be of the Upper Yin grade, the strongest level of treasure that the youth could wield.

    Tian Yuxue, at the Establishment Saint Wheel Realm, was just a step away from the Five Decays Realm. Her Saint Wheels revved into motion, and it seemed as if a giant wheel of ice and snow appeared behind her, devouring the Immortal energy of the world and surging into her body!

    "Despicable fugitive! Meet your demise!" Grasping the Burning Snow Jade Spear, integrating ice and fire, Tian Yuxue moved swiftly, turning into a streak of cold light gliding on the ice, thrusting the spear towards Yun Xiao with astonishing force!

 Chapter 422: Below the Five Decays, Just a Bug!

    Chapter 422: Below the Five Decays, Just a Bug!

    With this move, Tian Yuxue nearly demonstrated the strongestbat power beneath the state of Five Decays, indeed eliciting a wave of admiration.

    <em>Martial Technique, Snow Domain Meteor!</em>

    Tian Yuxue shook her spear, and snow and fire scattered from it, forming a divine realm. Within this realm, cold snow and frost stars fell like meteors, aiming straight for Yun Xiao!

    Yun Xiao was trapped in the center of the snowstorm! He looked at the approaching Tian Yuxue and suddenly closed his eyes.

    <em>HUM! </em>Amidst the swirling snow and wind, the Sword Soul in his hand transformed into a Palm Sword, thrusting into the air!

    The Palm Sword vibrated, and the sword turned into a mysterious brilliance, opening a cloud of ice and fire interwoven fog. Within the fog, the sword shone like stars, also like meteors from heaven and earth bursting forth!

    <em>KLANG! KLANG !KLANG! </em>The sword and spear collided dozens of times in the air in an instant!

    Each collision burst forth like stars.

    "Snow Domain Meteor?" Tian Yuxue eximed, shocking her out of her anger. Her every thrust was precisely met by Yun Xiao''s sword tip. How could this be? Unless Yun Xiao used the exact same martial technique as her!

    She was slightly confused in the fight, but the spectators in the guest area saw everything clearly.

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    "Tian Yn, how does he know your martial technique?" Celestial Official Qin asked, frowning.

    "Impossible! This move is only passed down to women and must not be disclosed..." Tian Yn''s lips slightly parted, her brows deeply furrowed.

    While they were still astonished, Yun Xiao and Tian Yuxue continued their fight.

    "You are no match for me, don''t bother trying. It''s time for the others to take over," Yun Xiao said coldly, his swordy as agile as a dragon, floating amidst the ice and snow.

    "Do not insult me, viin!" Tian Yuxue grew even angrier upon hearing this andunched another move.

    <em>Jade Sun High Illumination!</em>

    From the sky, Tian Yuxue''s spear came crashing down, like a setting sun piercing through.

    Yun Xiao stood atop the ice and snow, his sword piercing the sky, masterfully copying this technique as well!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Tian Yuxue was sent flying into the air, her blood and qi in turmoil.

    "I can''t be bothered to kill you, get lost," Yun Xiao said with a frown.

    "Stop your nonsense!" Seeing Yun Xiao even utilizing Jade Sun High Illumination, Tian Yuxue was on the verge of a mental copse. In her fury, she retaliated with another move, sending a snowstorm raging towards him.

    <em>Blizzard Torrent!</em>

    "Boring." Yun Xiao flicked his sword, his figure bing one with the storm, the azure Sword Aura forming a tornado.

    As Tian Yuxue''s Blizzard Torrent was just beginning, he countered with the same move, his Sword Aura dissolving the snowstorm and piercing straight at Tian Yuxue''s throat!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The tip of the sword prated slightly!

    Even so, the chaotic Sword Aura left dense blood marks on Tian Yuxue''s neck!

    "Uh..." Tian Yuxue''s spear came to an abrupt halt, her body stiffened, the pain in her throat almost convincing her she had been pierced through!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>In the guest area, Tian Yn suddenly stood up, her breathing heavy, chest heaving.

    Yun Xiao''s sword had not fully struck! Yet, her back was covered in sweat.

    The entire scene left all the spectators breathless.

    "Why, didn''t you kill me..." Tian Yuxue stared at him, perplexed.

    "No reason, whether I kill or not is up to me; this time, I just didn''t feel like it." After speaking, Yun Xiao withdrew his sword, decisively.

    "Nonsense." Tian Yuxue, clutching her neck, looked at Yun Xiao dimly, "I know the reason."

    "What reason?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    "I''m a woman, and you''re a lecher!" Tian Yuxue said with a mix of sadness and anger.

    Yun Xiao was stunned for a moment, then immediately drew his Heaven Burial Sword Soul to attack Tian Yuxue, "Damn it, don''t run, I want to kill you now!"

    "Stop!" This time, someone stood in front of Yun Xiao, it was Uncle River.

    He warned, "The victory is already decided, to continue fighting would be illegal."

    "Fine..." Yun Xiao red at Tian Yuxue. "Just don''t spout nonsense, tarnishing my reputation."

    Tian Yuxue stood frozen, unsure of her feelings at the moment. Suddenly, she burst into tears. While crying, she ran to her mother, Tian Yn, andy weeping on herp.

    "She was actually brought to tears by Yun Xiao..."

    "Yun Xiao copied her every move, and he performed them better than her. Fighting like this, anyone would have a mental breakdown. I''d cry too."

    "Who would have thought the useless man Lian Xi picked up was actually a wolf in sheep''s clothing? What is his true level?"

    In an instant, many people''s views on Yun Xiao hadpletely changed.

    Winning two matches in a row, he smoothly made it into the top eight.

    Clearly, the manner of Tian Yuxue''s defeat made the high officials of the academy look even more grim. Their gazes fell on Can Nian.

    Can Nian''s written exam score wasn''t high, but ording to the current rankings, after making it into the top eight, he wouldpete with Yun Xiao for a spot in the top four!

    "It must be that he''s unbeatable in the Saint Wheel Realm, definitely not the Five Decays Realm; he doesn''t have the power of the Five Decays, and his sacred power hasn''t undergone any tribtions," Qin Ziyue said coldly.

    "Those not in the Five Decays are but ants. Don''t worry," Can Nian said.

    "Don''t be careless," Tian Zhixiu advised.

    "Mhm." Can Nian nodded. He was confident, but he wouldn''t underestimate his opponent.

    "He didn''t dare to kill Yuxue, which shows he''s just bluffing, picking on the weaker ones," Qin Ziyue sneered.

    "He''s smart, but he overyed his hand." After saying this, Can Nian turned to the Pathseeker Society members behind him, "Hurry up and finish the act, then get down."

    There could only be one new Crown selected, and here, aside from Tian Zhixiu, everyone else was just running alongside.

    Their participation in the battle was merely to legitimize Tian Zhixiu''s position. Now, with Yun Xiao disrupting the scene, they had be irrelevant.

    In the blink of an eye, it was the quarterfinals!

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    It was Yun Xiao versus Can Nian, who was in the Five Decays Realm!

    This was going to be the most intense sh yet! The audience could see it.

    "This Crown selection has turned into Yun Xiao taking on the Pathseeker Society alone!"

    "Truly fierce, one man standing against a barrage from the other side."

    "That''s not quite it. If he gets past Can Nian, he''ll face Tian Zhixiu, whose written score isn''t as high as Qin Ziyue''s. The next challenge would then be Tian Zhixiu."

    "You really think he can get past Can Nian?"

    Thisment had most people shaking their heads.

    "Getting hopeful might be good, but the Five Decays is a chasm. Anyone who enters the Five Decays is battling against heaven itself; they''re not on the same level..."

    "The three presidents of the Pathseeker Society represent the face of the Three Great Ruins!"

    Amidst the passionate discussions of the crowd, Yun Xiao and Can Nian stepped into the arena.

    "My son!" A voice from the guest area, that of the Drunken Mad Sword, could be heard.

    Can Nian looked back to see his father lounging, swinging a wine jug in one hand, smiling and saying, "Rx."

    "Got it. Just a small bump in the road." Can Nian grinned.

    This rxed demeanor of father and son made many in the audience even more nervous.

    In the path of cultivation, confidence was indeed necessary! And both father and son exuded supreme confidence.

    In contrast, Yun Xiao remained calm... Was he feeling the real pressure now?

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>After sharing augh with his father, Can Nian turned back to Yun Xiao. The joy in his eyes suddenly turned into a deadly chill!

    Can Nian and Yun Xiao were both known for their unyielding spirits! shing head-on, with absolutely no nonsense!

    At the first moment their gazes collided, both drew their swords.

    Yun Xiao, in flowing white robes, with his azure sword cutting across the sky, was like an Immortal descending from a painting.

    Can Nian, in swirling ck robes, wielding his sword in both hands, was like an emperor among swords!

    His Sword Soul was gold on one side and ck on the other. Although it was a long sword, it was incredibly thick, like a steel mountain. Its surface shone brilliantly, with 400,000yers of gold and ck Sword Aura howling and swirling around it, its imperial majesty vast,manding the world!

    "Sunset Sword Soul, at the Mid Yang grade!"

    The crowd was amazed.

    The Yang grade was already an Emperor among Sword Souls, and reaching the Mid Yang grade was naturally nearing the pinnacle of swords!

    "And there are seven Yin grade Immortal Sword Rings¡­"

    The disciples of the Primordial Academy could only look on with deep envy at these seven Sword Rings.

    These existed beyond the Cmity Sword Rings, like seven giant demons of the mountain seas, encircling Can Nian, their demonic aura overwhelming, scrutinizing Yun Xiao!

    "To kill you, I''ll only need one sword!" Can Nian stood bathed in the gold and ck radiance, his face aglow with a fierce light.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The moment after he spoke, the power of the Five Decays Realm erupted from him, a terrifying force of decay and disaster that surpassed sacred power in its destructive power.

    When it surged into the Sunset Sword Soul, Can Nian transformed into an emperor among thousands of armies.

    With a step, he moved like a zing divine light towards Yun Xiao, his swordy wide and powerful, unleashing a devastating sh!

    In an instant, thousands of sword rays converged, birthing gold and ck fury, the demon magics of the Sword Rings forming seven storms around the sword, creating a giant wheel of wind and fire, shing towards Yun Xiao!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The power of this sword shocked the entire arena, causing an uproar.

    However, in the center of this gold and ck fiery storm, Yun Xiao remained unchanged in expression.

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>He closed his eyes once again, seemingly ignoring Can Nian''s Emperor''s Wrathful Sword Fire, his hand holding an azure de that seemed to dance like a dragon, swirling and floating in his grip!

    "The mother of heaven and earth, born from the Primordial, the beginning of the Dao, eternal and boundless¡­"

    The primordial was a type of original force; it was a vortex, an essence, a cycle of power, and perhaps a fate.

    This was also a part of the Creator Immortal!

    When Yun Xiao wielded his sword in this manner, it was perfectly natural, as if a drunkard dancing with his sword, immersed in his own world. Where the azure de pointed, an azure-colored primordial vortex was born around him, thousands of sword rays swimming like fish in this vortex, everything seemingly returning to the origin!

    In his leisurely swordy, he crafted a world without bounds. At that moment, with his white robe fluttering and his long hair dancing, his divine beauty seemed to defy the heavens, as if he were creating a world anew!

    Under such a sword vortex, Can Nian''s violent strike appeared crude and graceless, like a savage''s chop!

    In that instant, the entire audience stood up.

    "The Primordial Triforce Sword!!"

    A wave of disbelief and tearful joy swept through the assembly square.

    Countless elders burst into tears on the spot!

    "What is this..." Can Nian, inheritor of the First Emperor Sword Art of the Human Zenith Immortal, couldn''tprehend this sword''s primordial vortex at all!

    <em>BOOM! </em>His violent sh was met with Yun Xiao''s maneuvering, as he lightly flicked his sword, unleashing thousands of azure sword rays!

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>In an instant, Yun Xiao soared up, his eyes as deep as a sea of swords, pressing down with a sword that was both free-spirited and dazzling!

    The azure sword vortex instantly engulfed Can Nian''s technique, piercing through his heart with a thousand swords in a moment!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Ah¡­?" Can Nian''s expression shifted dramatically. "Dad¡ª!"

    Before he could cry out, the azure storm swept over his body, and with a buzz, his figure disintegrated into dust!

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    With one sword, Can Nian was obliterated in body and soul! The ashes drifted down, neatly arranging themselves on the ground to form a single sentence.

    ¡¸<em>To kill you, I too, only need one sword!</em>¡¹<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 423: Malicious Compliance!

    Chapter 423: Malicious Compliance!

    s, death came too swiftly! With just a single sword strike, Can Nian was dead!

    In a sh of swords, the Primordial Triforce Sword Art instantly demolished the First Emperor Sword Art of the Human Zenith Immortal!

    This was a scene many masters at the Primordial Academy could only dream of, a sight turned into sheer longing after the loss of the Primordial Triforce Sword Art.

    "Yun Xiao!!" Tens of thousands of academy disciples and elders fixated their eyes on the young man in white, wielding an azure sword, and the ashen remains before him.

    A sword strike that obliterated a person into dust, turning bone into script! Was this a method of killing? No, this was the art of swordsmanship at its peak!

    The ferocity of Yun Xiao''s strike was such that even the elders in the guest area were taken aback, a testament to its power.

    In the aftermath, everyone remained in a state of shock.

    <em>KLANG! </em>A sharp, cold, gold-ck sword light screamed through the air, covering a hundred meters in an instant to strike at Yun Xiao''s back.

    "Wasn''t this supposed to be a contest among the younger generation?"

    Yun Xiao sensed the murderous intent, unflustered, with a cold smile on his face.

    It turned out the Three Immortals Lineage couldn''t ept defeat after all!

    Just as the enraged Flying Sword was about to pierce through Yun Xiao''s heart, a blue and white Flying Sword, like river torrents, came from the side, entwining around the murderous sword intent, covering it like a blue cloth and nullifying its lethal force on the spot!

    Yun Dahe appeared beside Yun Xiao. He retrieved the transformed fabric-like blue and white Sword Soul and retracted it into his body.

    "You''re a guest, and after losing your son, you resort to murder in the Mystic Zenith Temple." Yun Dahe shook his head and sighed.

    With his intervention, the assassination attempt with the Flying Sword failed and had already flown back.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A man in a ck robe with disheveled hair now stood beside the remains turned to dust.

    It was indeed the Drunken Mad Sword. His eyes were bloodshot, his beard quivering, and his aura brimming with murderous intent. The sword that had attempted to kill Yun Xiao in an instant was his Sword Soul!

    "All talk about leaving it to the younger generation, yet the moment your own loses, you immediately seek revenge. Quite the double standard you y," Yun Xiao recovered and promptly gave the Drunken Mad Sword a thumbs-up.

    "Yun Xiao, shut up!" The disciples of the Pathseeker Society finally came to their senses, their eyes red with rage, ring at him. Huyan Qing was but a minor character; his death was at most a loss of face. But the loss of Can Nian was entirely different!

    Within the Mystic Zenith Temple, all from the Three Immortals Lineage were enraged, with murderous intent from all directions converging into a bloody river, all wrapping around Yun Xiao.

    "If you want to kill me, please do it in private. To make a move publicly now is just sore losing, falling short of a Celestial Official''s stature. Get lost quickly, don''t interfere with my ascension to the position of Crown." Yun Xiao''s words once again sent shivers down many spines.

    "Is he really courting death by offending the descendants of the Three Immortals?"

    "After all, even after killing Can Nian, begging for mercy would be useless; might as well go all out, right?"

    "To be honest, when he spared Tian Yuxue earlier, I really thought he chickened out, only daring to bully the weak."

    "Forget everything else, just for this courage, I''m impressed."

    "He''s worthy of Lian Xi."

    Before the Drunken Mad Sword could respond, the surrounding disciples of the Primordial Academy were already buzzing with discussion.

    The Drunken Mad Sword, at this moment, was also the center of attention!

    Having failed to kill Yun Xiao with his strike and no longer having the chance to act, he silently knelt down, sweeping his son''s ashes into an empty wine jar and also conveniently taking the seven fallen Yin Immortal Sword Rings.

    After packing up, when he looked up, Yun Xiao saw that his eyes were full of blood vessels.

    He suddenly chuckled, announcing publicly, "You, and everyone who protects you, won''t die easily. I have tens of thousands of little darlings here that will make you regreting to this world, and you''ll have plenty of time to enjoy them."

    Such words made many from the Academy Faction shudder.

    The ruthlessness of the descendants of the Three Immortals were well known to everyone.

    Yet, Yun Xiao merely smiled and said, "Save it. Apart from impotent rage, there''s nothing you can do."

    The Drunken Mad Sword''s bloodshot eyes shifted from Yun Xiao to Yun Dahe. He raised an eyebrow, a cold smile ying on his lips as he asked, "Brother Yun, what''s the verdict today?"

    Yun Dahe rubbed his head, nced at Yun Xiao, and said with resignation, "This child has indeed been a bit too mischievous, offending the Celestial Official. I hope you can overlook this. The Mystic Zenith Temple is a ce that values reason. Following the process, I believe the Temple Head will deliver a verdict that satisfies everyone."

    "How many days does the process take?" the Drunken Mad Sword asked coldly.

    "No more than three days," Yun Dahe replied with a sheepish smile. "Please understand, our Primordial Academy is just and strict. This is the purpose of the Mystic Zenith Temple''s existence, to never wrong anyone. The five-day trial process is a unique feature established by the Mystic Zenith Temple!"

    His implication was clear¡ªthe Three Immortals Lineage had essentially shot themselves in the foot.

    The five-day trial was initially designed to give disciples of the Three Immortals Lineage time to find exculpatory evidence or bribe someone to take their ce.

    "Enjoy thest three days of sunlight, and hope nobody is foolish enough to assassinate you," the Drunken Mad Sword said,pletely shedding his anger from his son''s death, his expression chillingly sly.

    "You also know losing me with a single sword would be too great a loss, right?" Yun Xiaoughed.

    This was the effect he wanted. Provoking them aggressively would actually make these three days more peaceful; otherwise, he''d be harassed by Flying Swords everywhere, annoyed to death.

    The Drunken Mad Sword gave him onest look before turning to leave. He had initially nned to return directly to the Human Zenith Ruins, but thinking of Tian Zhixiu, he decided to return to his seat instead.

    "Condolences." Tian Yn, who had also been infuriated by Yun Xiao, could empathize with the Drunken Mad Sword the most.

    "We underestimated him," the Drunken Mad Sword said, lying back in his chair, his eyes cold. "This kid, he''s got something."

    "How much exactly, we''ll know in three days," the oldest, Celestial Official Qin, said, his face still calm. "Yun Dahe also mentioned the three-day matter. By then, they have no reason to forcibly protect him, nor can they use the rules of the Mystic Zenith Temple as an excuse. There''s no need for us to rush."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "The day after Three Immortals Day?" Tian Yn asked.

    "Mm," Qin Tian Official nodded.

    "Then, it should be resolved on Three Immortals Day," the Drunken Mad Sword said.

    They hadn''t expected that such dignitaries across the entire Primordial Ruins would be publicly humiliated by a child leveraging thews of the Mystic Zenith Temple.

    "The question is, what next?" The Drunken Mad Sword and Celestial Official Qin''s gaze fell on Tian Yn.

    At that moment, Tian Zhixiu and Qin Ziyue had both entered the top four. ording to the sequence, the next battle would be Yun Xiao versus Tian Zhixiu.

    To fight or not to fight?

    Tian Yn frowned. "There''s something odd about this kid. He''s clearly not in the Five Decays, yet his sacred power is very strong."

    "I''ve studied the Primordial Triforce Sword Art; it''s definitely lost. No one in the Primordial Academy knows it," the Drunken Mad Sword said.

    "Yun Xiao is clearly set on continuing his killing spree to seize the position of Crown. Judging from his confidence, both Tian Zhixiu and Qin Ziyue are in grave danger. We''ve already lost Can Nian. Until we unravel the mystery behind this boy, we can''t afford to fight anymore," Celestial Official Qin said gravely.

    "To surrender without a fight, allowing a disciple from the Academy Faction to be the youngest Crown, wouldpletely ruin our strategy of having Tian Zhixiu lead the youth. It would be a disgrace, especially before Three Immortals Day, and would only boost the confidence of those foolish dogs from the Academy Faction..."

    After the Drunken Mad Sword finished, he looked again at Tian Yn and asked, "Tian Zhixiu is in the Mid Five Decays Realm, having survived two of the Five Decays tribtions, with the power of two declines. Are you sure you won''t let him try? A child who has been unbeaten in the Primordial Academy, with such strong belief, making him surrender would shatter his Dao Heart."

    "In life, there are battles we know are risky, but we must fight them. Oveing obstacles and climbing the heavenlydder is the essence of cultivation..." Celestial Official Qin pursed his lips. "Ziyue might be okay; Can Nian was defeated, she knows she wouldn''t stand a chance. The main concern is Tian Zhixiu; he is a child with spirit."

    Tian Yn''s beautiful brows were knitted in struggle.

    "Mother, don''t let brother fight. This man is a devil, our nemesis..." Tian Yuxue said, trembling.

    "Silence!" Tian Yn red at her.

    "Yuxue, don''t speak such disheartening words. We, the descendants of the Three Immortals, are the sovereigns of the Primordial Ruins. With us here, we have no rivals," the Drunken Mad Sword said sternly.

    "..." Tian Yuxue bowed her head, no longer daring to speak.

    After struggling, Tian Yn, seeing Tian Zhixiu and Qin Ziyue approaching, said, "Let''s respect the child''s wishes."

    In a moment, Tian Zhixiu and Qin Ziyue stood before them.

    "Mother, uncles," Tian Zhixiu''s gaze was calm, "Do you wish for me to admit defeat?"

    Tian Yn remained silent, looking at her son.

    "If so, I will take my own life right here," Tian Zhixiu said calmly and seriously.

    "Why go to such lengths?" Tian Yn sighed softly.

    "To be born a descendant of the Three Immortals, to wield control over the myriad worlds of the Primordial Ruins, we are meant to tread upon thousands of enemies, unmatched in the world. To surrender without fighting would be a shame to the Three Immortals, unworthy of the celestial blood flowing through our veins, I''d be better off dead!" Tian Zhixiu dered with a fiery gaze.

 Chapter 424: This Kiss, Unparalleled in the Heavens!

    Chapter 424: This Kiss, Unparalleled in the Heavens!

    Tian Yn was silent. After a long while, she finally lifted her head, eyes brimming with hope as she looked at her son and said earnestly, "Alright, I support you going into battle."

    "Thank you for your trust, Mother," Tian Zhixiu replied with a relieved smile.

    "The condition is, take this with you." Tian Yn said, handing over a Bag of Holding to Tian Zhixiu.

    "What is this..." Tian Zhixiu opened the Bag of Holding, nced inside, and was visibly shocked, feeling a tumult inside, "Such a divine item... isn''t it against the rules?"

    "Bah, what rules!" A proudugh came from the Drunken Mad Sword, "This is our capital, the capital of the descendants of the Three Immortals. Why shouldn''t we use it?"

    "Alright." Tian Zhixiu nodded, his conviction greatly strengthened.

    "Remember, do not kill him rashly. I was impulsive just now; you mustn''t be," the Drunken Mad Sword cautioned.

    "This is for Can Nian!" Tian Zhixiu said, then turned and walked towards the arena, his aura overwhelming!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Yun Dahe pulled Yun Xiao aside, his eyes wide as he stared at the young man in white, "Where did you learn the Primordial Triforce Sword Art?"

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    "I know." Feng Qingcong popped up with a cheeky grin.

    "Spill it!" Yun Dahe grabbed his hair.

    "Ouch, there are people around, mind your manners!" Feng Qingcong pulled his hand away, then said to Yun Dahe, "You wouldn''t believe it if I told you. He came to my Old Pce, nced at the ancient stele, and just like that, he learned it."

    "You believe that? You think he''s a deity?" Yun Dahe said incredulously.

    "I knew you wouldn''t believe it. Bald and brainless," Feng Qingcong chuckled.

    "Long hair, short of insight!" Yun Dahe retorted, then suddenly grabbed Yun Xiao''s hand, smiling goofily, "Hey, for the sake of personally escorting you to Lian Xi, pass the Primordial Triforce Sword Art to me!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "I''m not passing it to a baldie," Yun Xiao said.

    "You..." Yun Dahe was grinding his teeth when he suddenly grabbed Feng Qingcong''s hand, pleadingly saying, "Brother, teach me the hair growth secret technique."

    "Pfft!" Lian Xi, standing on the side, burst intoughter after hearing all this, holding onto her sides.

    "Uncle River, what do you think this is?" Lian Xi took out a book and waved it.

    "What?" Yun Dahe took it over.

    "This is theplete version of the Primordial Triforce Sword Art restored by Yun Xiao. From now on, you''ll be its guardian. Make sure it never gets lost again," Lian Xi said with some pride.

    "This¡­" Yun Dahe trembled all over, flipping through the pages, his eyes unwittingly reddening. After reading a few pages, he looked at Yun Xiao and said deeply, "This makes me dread the thought of you dying in three days."

    "So, I''m asking the two uncles to think of a way to save him," Lian Xi pleaded charmingly.

    "Huh?" Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong were taken aback, asking Yun Xiao in unison, "You''re so formidable, yet you have no way to save yourself?"

    "Nope, not a clue at all!" Yun Xiao replied.

    "Damn, so you were just bluffing¡­" Feng Qingcong and Yun Dahe both frowned deeply. The feud had escted to such a degree that there was no turning back.

    "If I can''t be saved, I''ll have to elope with Lil Xi," Yun Xiao said.

    "That''s not eptable!" They hurriedly shook their heads.

    "So, please help," Lian Xi requested.

    Yun Dahe''s face was a picture of misery as he looked at the book of the Primordial Triforce Sword Art in his hand and sighed, "It''s over, this thing is going to end up as a cursed object."

    Feng Qingcong also sighed deeply. "No kidding, he gave me a book too."

    The two exchanged nces and sighed.

    Yun Xiao smiled beside them. There was always a way out. He wasn''t afraid. He didn''t say much, but sat down in a corner to meditate.

    "So, what are you doing?" Lian Xi asked curiously.

    "Last-minute efforts," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "Is there still time?" Lian Xi was embarrassed.

    "Shh¡­" Yun Xiao hushed her, then immersed himself in his cultivation. He circted the Primordial Void Technique, consumed some freshly made Heavenly Dao Sariras, and with the eyes of his Genesis Spirit, he observed the changes in the sacred power within the nine suns revolving in his Dantian.

    "The moment is right."

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The nine suns melted away at this moment, transforming into a torrent of white-gold, swirling around the pure white Dao Heart and the Genesis Spirit.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The rest of the sacred power within his Dantian joined in. The white-gold torrent grew more abundant, gradually forming a solid disc that shone brightly, with a stable structure and tremendous power!

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    This white-gold disc ced the Dao Heart at its center, spinning tumultuously, driving stronger forces through the Nine Heavens Star Meridians into every limb and bone!

    "Early Sacred Wheel Realm!" Yun Xiao remarked. This was the final form of sacred power, reaching perfection and achieving a brand-new transformation!

    For Yun Xiao, this step was rtively easy. Now, he was curious about what the Five Decays Realm would look like.

    "With the resources at hand, getting through the Sacred Wheel Realm should be no problem. As for the Five Decays Realm, that needs some thorough investigation."

    Yun Xiao calmed the power of the Sacred Wheel Realm and took a deep breath. Inside his Dantian, the white-gold Primordial Void Sacred Wheel and the Worldly Dao Heart were whole.

    The Genesis Spirit sitting atop the Dao Heart still resembled Yun Xiao from his previous life.

    "The mysteries of the Dao, reaching the pinnacle," Yun Xiao murmured to himself and then opened his eyes.

    Before him was a snow-white, tender face. Despite her youth, she was an unparalleled beauty, unmatched in perfection and purity.

    From the Primordial Void Sacred Wheel to the close presence of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor''s incarnation of transcending cmity, this perfect, tender face... Yun Xiao''s eyes, for a moment, were lost.

    "Lil Xi..."

    This soft call, he didn''t know if it was meant for the Divine Dawn Empress of the Heavenly Realm, Chen Xi; or the fairy of the Primordial Academy, Lian Xi.

    "Huh?" Lian Xi, suddenly meeting such an intense gaze, couldn''t help but blush and stammer, "Wh-what are you doing, suddenly calling out to me like that?"

    Yun Xiao instinctively leaned forward, and in a daze, their lips touched. The collision of the Yin and Yang Voids gave them a shock like an electric touch.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao felt as if he had touched the softest and most beautiful thing in the world.

    Lian Xi''s eyes widened in surprise at first, then her cheeks flushed a drunken red, her lips trembling with innocence and awkwardness, all conveyed through her restless hands.

    Immersed in the moment, her expression suddenly changed, revealing a hint of confusion. "Yun Xiao, is the Heavenly Realm at peace¡­?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s mind jolted, and he quickly grasped her shoulders, asking, "Chen Xi?"

    "Eh?" The girl in his arms shook her head, puzzled, "What did you call me? I am Lian Xi..."

    Yun Xiao, looking at her bewildered and shy demeanor, was overwhelmed with a flood of emotions and found himself at a loss for words.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, the whole ce erupted.

    Yun Xiao thought something had happened, but when he looked up, he realized that everyone was excitedly watching him and Lian Xi.

    "They kissed!"

    "Whoa, not suitable for children."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above the clouds, on that lotus tform, the white-haired woman and the gray-robed elder floating in midair were also silently watching this scene.

    "Do you see? He has just entered the Sacred Wheel Realm. This means he defeated someone in the Early Five Decays at only the Genesis Spirit Realm," the gray-robed figure spoke.

    "Indeed." Dean Yu nodded.

    "What are your thoughts? Are you sure this young man trulyes from the Nine Hells?" the gray-robed figure asked.

    "He indeedes from the Nine Hells," Dean Yu paused, "All I can say is that the world of the Immortal Asylum is somewhat mysterious, which is quite normal. Otherwise, the Three Immortals wouldn''t have been so excited."

    "Unfortunately, we can''t get close to inspect the Nian." The gray-robed figure frowned. "The secrets of the Immortal Asylum and the Nian have always eluded us, which might bring a great disaster upon us."

    "Indeed," Dean Yu said again.

    "But are you not in a hurry?" the gray-robed figure asked.

    "We can''t go to the Nine Hells, but fortunately, maybe he carries the secrets of the Immortal Asylum." Dean Yu pointed towards Yun Xiao. "So, studying him might be possible."

    "That makes sense." The gray-robed figure''s eyes brightened in agreement. "So, it was you who arranged for Lil Xi to interact with him?"

    "Are you suggesting I honey trapped him?" Dean Yu nced at the gray-robed figure. "Don''t joke. Lian Xi is destined by heaven; she is not a man''s vassal."

    "Could it be, she took the initiative?" the gray-robed figure said, dumbfounded. He had always thought it was Dean Yu''s arrangement.

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    Dean Yu showed a look of curiosity, saying, "I won''t lie to you, my biggest puzzle right now is why that girl would meet him in a dream first?"

    "It means the demise of the Three Immortals is decreed by fate," the gray-robed figure looked at the young couple and suddenlyughed. "This kiss is unparalleled in the world."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 425: Battle of the Apex!

    Chapter 425: Battle of the Apex!

    "The first match of the semifinals will begin!"

    While people were still abuzz over Yun Xiao''s kiss with Lian Xi, the voice of the red-robed woman, cold and heartless, spread throughout the Square of Righteous Law, silencing many whispers.

    The Mystic Zenith Temple fell eerily silent. Then, all eyes turned to the two figures¡ªYun Xiao and Tian Zhixiu!

    One, a neer who had recently risen to unparalleled prominence, a man from Lian Xi''s household.

    The other, a scion of the Three Immortals, president of the Pathseeker Society, a role model for the youth of the Primordial Ruins!

    Thetter was righteous and noble, the former... peculiar! Odd in every way! Both admirable and loathsome!

    "This is the peak battle of the disciples of the Primordial Academy..."

    Hearts began to race with anticipation. The most shocking was definitely Yun Xiao. If it weren''t for his ruthless ying of Can Nian, he wouldn''t fit the word <em>peak</em>.

    "They''re up!"

    Neither were of meek spirit. As soon as the Temple Head made the announcement, two figures stepped onto the arena stage.

    A storm brewed instantly as the anticipation soared.

    Tian Zhixiu, dressed in a light golden robe, had eyes shining with resolve. With a swing of his hand, his Daylight me Qilin Spear pierced through the air and emitted a piercing shriek. Then, with a swivel of the spear, he was enveloped in a fiery white light.

    His martial arts and Immortal techniques were inherited from the Sky Source Immortal, the strongest in the ruins, mighty yet dignified.

    <em>HUM! </em>As soon as Tian Zhixiu entered, he looked up sharply, his zing gaze locking onto Yun Xiao.

    "Last night, you only dared to flee after seeing me. I didn''t expect you to dare to challenge me today!" he said.

    "That wasst night," Yun Xiao replied. Compared to Tian Zhixiu''s fierceness, he appeared calm and unrestrained, as if still savoring Lian Xi''s tender fragrance on his lips.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Without further words, Tian Zhixiu stomped, and the ground of the Square of Righteous Law, forged from the toughest immortal ore, cracked open. He charged, turning into a golden streak across the sky, the Daylight me Qilin Spear roaring as it turned into a golden zing qilin, rushing fiercely towards Yun Xiao!

    "Mystic me Piercing Spear!"

    Many eximed the name of this spear technique.

    Tian Zhixiu''s attack was astonishing, swift and powerful like a Qilin. The golden light and fierce fire of the spear arrived in front of Yun Xiao''s eyes in an instant!

    BOOM! Rocks along the path shattered into dust, showcasing the violent force of the martial attack.

    Heunched a killing move from the outset!

    Yun Xiao nced once, his expression unchanged. With a flip of his left hand, a dragon pattern slid from his forehead to his palm, where suddenly a violet Life Sigil umbre sprang open!

    The Runic Umbre''s frame was made of nine dragon heads. As it spun in Yun Xiao''s hand, it seemed to transform into a real nine-headed dragon, with countless sigil patterns forming hundreds of small formations, embedded on this violet dragon''s body, as storm, thunder, and lightning roared into life!

    "Life Sigil! Over 300,000 Runes!"

    People had heard of Yun Xiao''s dual mastery of sword and sigil, but this was their first time really witnessing it.

    "He''s not focusing on one with the other as secondary; his Life Sigil is as strong as his Sword Soul!"

    The shock in the voices of several overseeing Crowns made the eyes of the red robed woman even colder and more enigmatic.

    On one side was a golden me qilin! On the other, a violet nine-headed dragon!

    In that lightning-fast moment, Yun Xiao''s Runic Umbre lunged forward, its nine heads fiercely biting into the me qilin. A piercing screech erupted as sparks flew everywhere!

    This was actually a head-on sh between the Runic Umbre and the Daylight me Qilin Spear!

    It was also a direct collision between the Mystic Golden Dao Embryo empowering Tian Zhixiu''s fleshly body with unbelievable might, against the inexhaustible power of Yun Xiao''s Primordial Void Sacred Wheel!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao was sent flying into the sky! For a moment, he appeared like a kite with its string cut, seemingly fragile.

    "Tian Zhixiu is stronger!"

    This scene finally uplifted everyone from the Three Immortals Lineage, relieving their tension. This included Tian Yn, who also breathed a sigh of relief.

    "Press the attack!"

    Just as the people from the Three Immortals Lineage hoped, Tian Zhixiu, after sending Yun Xiao flying with a spear strike, exploded upwards as soon as his feet touched the ground. He shot towards Yun Xiao like an arrow released from its bow, his spear piercing forth again!

    "Be careful!" Many from the Academy Faction shouted in rm.

    Amidst the cries of rm, Yun Xiao''s gaze suddenly sharpened! With a casual flick of his right hand, while his body flew backwards, a three-inch Flying Sword shot forward!

    This Flying Sword, seemingly effortless at first, instantly created a storm of primordial essence in the next moment.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Flying Sword exploded three times in session, directly twisting the space to form three primordial vortexes. These vortexes plundered the power of heaven and earth, spawning thousands of swords targeting Tian Zhixiu!

    "Again, the Primordial Triforce Sword Art!" Yun Dahe''s eyes lit up.

    Primordial Triforce Sword Art! Flying Sword, Palm Sword, and Sovereign Sword! Three swords in total, embodying three forces!

    Yun Xiao''s Palm Sword strike that had in Can Nian earlier was named Boundless Dao, while this moment''s Flying Sword, stirred the primordial and formed a rain of swords. This Flying Sword technique was named Unparalleled Sword Dao!

    "Primordial..." Tian Zhixiu stared, a single Flying Sword had twisted space and the primordial, as if a world-spanning beast was pressing down on him.

    "Found it!" He suddenly stopped, swinging the Daylight me Qilin Spear in his hand with lightning speed towards the Flying Sword! But at the moment of the strike, he suddenly felt a chill, a terrifying sense of crisis engulfing him.

    "Yun Xiao!"

    He saw it! Behind this Flying Sword, Yun Xiao was wrapped in violet dragon inscriptions, man and dragon as one! This was clearly a method of using a Life Sigil to enhance daoist spells!

    "A daoist spell?" In the instant of Tian Zhixiu''s shock, a violet chessboard suddenly rose around his body. Out of thin air, ck and white chess pieces appeared on the board, each inscribed with the image of a nine-headed dragon!

    A chessboard, recing heaven and earth, with thick smoke rising, obscured Tian Zhixiu''s view of everything outside the battlefield.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Each ck and white chess piece, as ifmanded by heaven, pressed into the board, causing deafening roars.

    Tian Zhixiu was right where the pieces werending! His eyes widened, and all he could hear were the incredulous gasps of many elders outside the chessboard.

    "Pr Yin-Yang Chess!"

    Immediately, the ck and white pieces fell like a torrential rain. Even as Tian Zhixiu dodged and pierced through them with his spear, he was still battered until bloodied and bruised!

    Even his martial body was covered in contusions and gushing blood!

    "Sword!" His cry of rm had barely faded when the Unparalleled Sword Dao pierced through the chessboard.

    In that lightning-fast moment, Tian Zhixiu, using all his luck, managed to hit Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword with his Daylight me Qilin Spear!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The Flying Sword and the spear shed, sparking fiercely, grazing the surface of the spear before embedding into Tian Zhixiu''s right arm!

    <em>POOF! </em>Tian Zhixiu''s entire arm exploded into a mist of blood on the spot!

    Covered in blood, he was directly sted away, crashing hard onto the ground, and in the process, was hit several times by the ck and white chess pieces. Even the sound of his bones shattering could be heard!

    "What..." Over ten thousand people watched this scene in stunned silence,pletely dumbfounded!

    Although this battle had many twists, the entire sequence urred in just a moment.

    First, Tian Zhixiu''s spear was at an advantage, only for Yun Xiao''s sword and sigil to counter and severely wound Tian Zhixiu in an instant!

    Many hadn''t even finished a single breath yet!

    Yun Xiao''s formidable talent at that moment was seared into the audience''s hearts as sharply as a sword through the soul.

    "Protect Tian Zhixiu!"

    "Don''t let Yun Xiao kill him!"

    Several elders from the Three Immortals Lineage stood up, looking towards Tian Yn with urgent concern. Losing was just losing; there was no need for death!

    Can Nian died because he couldn''t withstand even a single sword strike. If Tian Yn intervened to save Tian Zhixiu now, it obviously would still be timely!

    But to their astonishment, although Tian Yn''s expression was icy cold and her teeth clenched... she didn''t move! If she, as a mother, didn''t save him, who would bother to interfere?

    "Tian Zhixiu is going to die..."

    People from the Three Immortals Lineage sighed in despair, some feeling a numbing sensation on their scalps, overwhelmed by a sense of suffocation under Yun Xiao''s pressure.

    To Yun Xiao''s surprise, Tian Zhixiu, despite such severe injuries, didn''t scream in agony.

    He just gasped heavily, then suddenly got up, gripping the spear with his other hand. Though dripping with blood, he still stared down Yun Xiao with determination!

    This indomitable spirit and will, unafraid even of death, indeed earned Yun Xiao''s respect.

    "You killing me changes nothing. From the moment you set foot in the Primordial Ruins, your fate was sealed," Tian Zhixiu coughed up blood, but for the first time, he smirked.

    "Then take a look ahead." Yun Xiao gripped the Flying Sword, transforming it into a three-foot azure de, and suddenly lunged at Tian Zhixiu!

    In fact, his simultaneous use of the sword and sigil just now was meant to instantly finish Tian Zhixiu, but unexpectedly, he endured and didn''t die.

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Xiao''s sword strike was as fast as thunder. His eyes were disdainful, but his heart was extremely cautious! "He''s wounded pretty badly, but his mom isn''t stepping in to save him. That must mean he has something up his sleeve."

    And so, Yun Xiao''s strike was not to finish off but to probe. As expected, just as his sword approached Tian Zhixiu, thetter''s fierce face suddenly twisted with malicious glee.

    <em>CRACK! </em>Tian Zhixiu suddenlyshed out with a white phosphorescent whip. This whip, like a living creature, changed a thousand times in an instant, its light swallowing everyone''s sight, and in a sh, it wrapped around Yun Xiao!

    "Yang grade magic treasure, Binding God Cord!"

    This was the third shock after the Primordial Triforce Sword Art and the Pr Yin-Yang Chess, only this time, it came from Tian Zhixiu!

    "Yun Xiao is caught, it''s over..."

    Many from the Academy Faction felt their hearts drop from exhration to the abyss, turning anxious and indignant.

    Meanwhile, the descendants of the Three Immortals rose from hell to heaven, their previously grim faces now bursting with joy.

    Before their eyes, Yun Xiao was bound tightly, the Binding God Cord seemingly feeble but actually incredibly powerful, capable of crushing bones and slicing a person into pieces!

    "No wonder Tian Yn didn''t save him!"

    The descendants of the Three Immortals smiled, silently praising the profound wisdom of this beauty.

    They all focused on the battlefield, not wanting to miss a moment of what was toe.

    On the battlefield, Yun Xiao looked down at the Yang grade supreme treasure that had deeply cut into his body. This thing was indeed formidable! No wonder it was a trump card!

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>Tian Zhixiu, holding one end of the Binding God Cord, looked crazily at Yun Xiao and growled coldly, "Aren''t you good at ying the pig to eat the tiger? Continue then! Keep showing off now!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Yun Xiao calmly met his gaze and then said, "Sure, you asked for it."

 Chapter 426: Tempting Fate

    Chapter 426: Tempting Fate

    No sooner had Yun Xiao spoken, the Prison Warden Sigil on his forehead shimmered with a strange cold light again.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>It suddenly burrowed into the God Binding Cord on Yun Xiao.

    <em>BUZZ! BUZZ! BUZZ! </em>Violet dragon patterns began to wildly spread within the cord, starting from the end and surging towards the side held by Tian Zhixiu!

    "Eh?" Tian Zhixiu frowned at this scene.

    "In your dreams! As if I''d let you steal control!" He violently shook the God Binding Cord, attempting to drag Yun Xiao before his eyes.

    However, by then, the violet dragon patterns had already spread across arge portion of the cord! When Tian Zhixiu tugged, that part didn''t move at all!

    "What!" Tian Zhixiu''s heart suddenly skipped a beat.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>At this moment, the violet dragon patterns had spread to his hand!

    Tian Zhixiu saw with his own eyes a few drops of blood being forced out from the rope by the violet dragon patterns!

    "Magic treasure blood?" Tian Zhixiu muttered in disbelief, his worldview shattered on the spot. He''d never heard of a Life Sigil that could forcefully squeeze out the lifeblood controlling a magic treasure!

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    "Madness!" Tian Zhixiu''s expression suddenly turned ghastly pale, watching all this in disbelief.

    <em>SWOOSH! </em>Suddenly, the God Binding Cord in his hand, like a venomous snake, instantly slipped from his grasp and fiercely coiled around his body!

    "Impossible¡­" Tian Zhixiu abruptly looked up. The person holding the God Binding Cord had be Yun Xiao. The prey and the hunter, in an instant, had swapped roles, such irony.

    "This is one of the forms of my Life Sigil called Prison Warden, specialized in seizing magic treasures," Yun Xiao''s lips curled up slightly.

    "You''re not human!" Tian Zhixiu''s face almost split apart as he let out a despairing roar. He''d remained unyielding in the face of being in by Yun Xiao before. But now, he crumbled.

    The moment he crumbled, Yun Xiao flicked his wrist, and the God Binding Cord swiftly contracted, slicing Tian Zhixiu into dozens of pieces.

    <em>WHOOSH </em>Yun Xiao retrieved Tian Zhixiu''s Seed of Creation, the Mystic Golden Dao Embryo, into his hand and absorbed it beneath his sleeve.

    Without another word, he tossed the God Binding Cord back in the direction of Tian Yn and turned, flying towards Lian Xi.

    This was the deepest silence of the entire scene!

    Even many from the Three Immortal Lineage still had smiles frozen on their faces, yet to process what just happened. They seemed to see Yun Xiao being sliced into pieces¡­ Because that would have been more reasonable!

    Tian Zhixiu''s back was to his mother, so Tian Yn could not see the pain and agony on his face in his final moments. She too was immersed in relief... then, in a blink, her son was gone.

    He was in by her own God Binding Cord! If not for this divine weapon, she might not have been so confident in her son''s chances. After all, it was her most valuable magic treasure, which had never encountered any mishap.

    By the time realization and horror set in for Tian Yn, Yun Xiao had already turned and left the battlefield.

    "No, no, no." Tian Yn turned around, ncing at Celestial Official Qin and the Drunken Mad Sword. Their solemn gazes were fixed on her, their looks striking her heart like lightning. Those looks clearly meant she hadn''t seen wrong...

    Only then did the Square of Righteous Law explode with the shockwaves from thousands of voices sweeping over everything. Many were simply speechless, struggling toprehend the scene.

    "How did Yun Xiao do it?"

    Everyone was baffled, including Yun Dahe, Feng Qingcong, and others. This was even more bewildering than the revival of the Pr Yin Yang Chess and Primordial Triforce Sword Art!

    This confusion even surpassed their shock at Tian Zhixiu''s death.

    The way many looked at Yun Xiao hadpletely changed!

    "Now, he''s on his way to bing a Crown."

    "ying the vice-president and the president of the Pathseeker Society, he''s truly stepping on the faces of the Three Immortal Lineages to im glory and status."

    "Is it because he knows that he''s doomed? So he''s got nothing to lose?"

    Many had thought this before. But at this moment, they wondered, could he possibly survive?

    "No matter what¡­ Yun Xiao and Lian Xi are now the brightest shining couple in the Primordial Academy."

    Some were envious and resentful, others shocked.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

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    As for Qin Ziyue, she had long been forgotten.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Just then, in the guest area, many parents from the Pathseeker Society stood up, including Tian Yn, who had finally epted reality, ovee with grief and rage. Her eyes werepletely bloodshot, her aura incredibly violent, showcasing the ferocity of a Martial Cultivator.

    She was somewhat confused. They were descendants of the Three Immortals, how could they be killed so easily? Just because this person was desperate, a fugitive?

    Tian Yn red at the red robed woman!

    The Temple Head nced at her but then said to Qin Ziyue, "The next semifinals match begins."

    Her intention was clear. Yun Xiao would be dealt withter!

    "Yn, there''s nothing we can do. This is the Primordial Academy, the stance of the Mystic Zenith Temple is crucial. Plus, with the Three Immortals not present, we can''t proceed." Celestial Official Qin sighed softly.

    "You haven''t lost your offspring, so of course you''d say that lightly," Tian Yn said hoarsely.

    "..." Celestial Official Qin remained silent, then shook his head with another weary sigh. "This youngster''s performance today truly exceeds my centuries of understanding of the dao."

    "We must handle this carefully," the Drunken Mad Sword said.

    "As carefully as with Lian Xi?" Tian Yn said coldly.

    "Yes, after all, they''re a pair," Celestial Official Qin said.

    "What about your granddaughter Qin Ziyue?" Tian Yn looked at him.

    Celestial Official Qin said, "After the semifinals, she''ll concede."

    "So our age-old n of raising the youngest Crown blows up in smoke, turning into egg on our faces?" Tian Yn said ufortably.

    "No choice. Fortunately, the embarrassment won''tst long," the Drunken Mad Sword''s eyes flickered with a cold light.

    As they conversed, a turbulent undercurrent was also stirring in the hearts of all the disciples in the academy. The conflict was too intense; they dared not even discuss it!

    This led to Qin Ziyue''s semifinal match being virtually ignored by everyone. Watching it was pointless; her opponent was also a member of the Pathseeker Society and immediately conceded.

    In the end, the two finalists were Yun Xiao and Qin Ziyue. One ranked first in the literary examination, and the other second.

    Under the watchful eyes of thousands, the finals began. Yun Xiao and Qin Ziyue stood in the arena. What should have been an explosive final battle for the selection of a new Crown now seemed devoid of meaning.

    Qin Ziyue didn''t give Yun Xiao a chance! She gave the young man in white a cold look and dered publicly, "I concede!"

    The surrender was expected. It was over! The dust had settled.

    "Ziyue,e back," Celestial Official Qin called from not far away.

    "Yes, Grandfather," Qin Ziyue nodded.

    At this moment, disciples from the Academy Faction started cheering and shouting Yun Xiao''s name. The battle was over! He had be the new Crown!

    Yun Xiao nced at Qin Ziyue''s retreating figure. Though his fingers twitched slightly, there was nothing he could do. She had conceded, and the selection for the new Crown was truly over.

    At that moment, Qin Ziyue suddenly turned around. She looked at Yun Xiao with a cold sneer. "You killed so ruthlessly today, was it to stand up for Lil Xiu and those girls?"

    "..." Yun Xiao was stunned and remained silent.

    "These girls, mere beauties of nosting charm, I gave them the chance to touch the high society. If they wish to trade their youth for a better tomorrow, what''s it to you?" Qin Ziyue said.

    Yun Xiao looked at her, still saying nothing.

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    "Lil Xiu did well, huh? Even hiring you as a bodyguard?" Qin Ziyue finished with a coldugh. "These brainless girls are finished. I''ll make sure they suffer fates worse than death."

    <em>STAB! </em>Her words had barely fallen when a streak of azure light pierced her throat.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 427: I Wanted to Kill. So, I Killed!

    Chapter 427: I Wanted to Kill. So, I Killed!

    "Ugh..." Qin Ziyue clutched her mouth with one hand and the back of her head with the other. Her expression shifted from a sneer to bewilderment in an instant.

    Thest image she saw in her eyes was Yun Xiao, holding the Flying Sword, looking at her with a cold gaze. Handsome, yet brutally so! A desperado whose appearance and nature were at extreme odds!

    Yun Xiao''s appearance always made her subconsciously mistake him for a genteel and carefree Immortal above the clouds, and so carelessly lowered her guard. Little did she know, his temperament was wrath, anger, and foolishness incarnate!

    Reborn into this life with a heart full of malice, Yun Xiao encountered injustice and negotiated with no one¡ªdeath was his only solution!

    Qin Ziyue didn''t have the rity of thought, perhaps realizing the instant she died, she regretted, but it was toote. Death extinguished life!

    <em>THUD! </em>When the match should have been over, her body softly fell in front of Yun Xiao.

    At this moment, Celestial Official Qin, Tian Yn, and others had already turned to leave...

    "Yun Xiao killed Qin Ziyue!"

    A bolt from the blue caused turmoil anew in the Square of Righteous Law.

    "What..." The crowd, just about to leave, turned around in shock to see the favored daughter of the Pathseekers Society, lying on the ground with her eyes wide open in death.

    Dark red blood dripped from the back of her head onto the ground, spreading out with a drip, drip, drip that echoed eerily in the dead silence.

    "Yun Xiao?" Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong both startled, their brows jumping. The selection had ended; why was there still killing? They couldn''t ponder this further, only to approach Yun Xiao along with Lian Xi.

    "Celestial Official Qin..." The heads of the academy''s families in the guest area all turned their gaze towards Celestial Official Qin, the eldest and most experienced official among them. He had been calm until he heard the sound of the body hitting the ground.

    After Qin Ziyue''s surrender, he thought the day''s farce had ended. Otherwise, with even the slightest guard up, Yun Xiao would not have seeded...

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The descendants of the Three Immortals all turned around. Their faces were filled with murderous rage. This was the most intolerable affront!

    "Yun Xiao!" Hundreds of students from the Pathseeker Society charged onto the battlefield, their eyes split with fury, madly attacking Yun Xiao!

    Among them was Tian Yuxue. Their three leaders were dead! Chaos ensued in an instant!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Countless magic treasures, daoist spells, and swords were hurled at Yun Xiao.

    Without turning, Yun Xiao reached behind and flicked his wrist, and a violet chessboard rose from the ground, forming a wall!

    The Pathseeker Society members'' attacks all struck the Yin-Yang chessboard, exploding on impact without prating through.

    "He actually withstood the attacks of the whole Pathseeker Society by himself..."

    The strength of this young man in white once again stunned everyone.

    "Stop!" It was not until then that the red-robed woman''s icymand fell like a cold ocean, finally restoring calm to the chaotic square.

    "We request the Temple Head to punish this murderer on the spot!"

    <em>THUD! </em>The Pathseeker Society students knelt, their eyes red with fury. It was always they who bullied others with their power and authority, yet now they were kneeling, begging for fairness and justice...

    The scene was somewhat surreal, leaving other students who had suffered at the hands of the academy in awe.

    "Celestial Official Qin..."

    People looked towards the center of the arena, where the elder in violet robes was holding Qin Ziyue.

    His eyes were like deep violet seas, his clothes moving without wind. Under his aura, the entire Mystic Zenith Temple seemed to be engulfed in night. One could only imagine his rage!

    He didn''t look at Yun Xiao but scanned the red-robed woman, Yun Dahai, and Feng Qingcong.

    "This old man wants to ask the Primordial Academy and Mystic Zenith Temple, how would you exin this? Does Yun Xiao have a reason for this murder?" Celestial Official Qin''s voice was hoarse.

    His point was straightforward! Song Bomei''s death was his fault, and Yun Xiao merely overstepped his bounds. Huyan Pin''s death, she was to me for impersonating an examiner.

    For Can Nian and Tian Zhixiu, it could be said it was a duel without words, where each was responsible for their own life or death! With every kill before, Yun Xiao could find a reason. What about now?

    His question left the red-robed woman, Yun Dahai, and Feng Qingcong silent.

    "I''ll answer you for you!" Yun Xiao turned around, locking eyes with Celestial Official Qin.

    Everyone shuddered at his words, wondering what excuse he would find this time.

    Before speaking, Yun Xiao nced at the crowd, seeing the group of girls... including Lil Xiu, their eyes red and teary, huddled together, whispering so softly, daring not to say anything.

    "We can''t talk about this, they will be retaliated against..." Lian Xi urgently whispered.

    Yun Xiao smiled at her slightly, then stepped forward and dered to Celestial Official Qin, word by word, loudly, "I killed Qin Ziyue without any reason. I wanted to kill, so I killed! I''vemitted a crime, do you dare to execute me now?"

    <em>BUZZ! </em>His words sent a buzz through the square. It was the sound of many people''s hearts racing at once!

    "He admitted it..."

    "Actually, considering those previous incidents, whether it was overstepping his bounds or a duel gone wrong, a fair and just examination would not warrant a death sentence for him, at most confirming his overstepping."

    "Now, the nature is indeed different."

    "What''s different? Can the Mystic Zenith Temple truly achieve<em> fairness</em> and <em>justice</em>? Yun Xiao must know better than anyone, to kill or not, it''s all the same."

    The crowd heatedly discussed with heavy expressions. What would he do next? Clearly, Yun Xiao hadn''t finished.

    Right after hisst statement, Yun Xiao turned to the red-robed woman, sternly asking, "I want to ask the Temple Head, does this ce fall under the jurisdiction of the Primordial Academy and Mystic Zenith Temple, or is it under the control of the Three Great Ruins? Since Qin Ziyue came to the Primordial Academy, isn''t her first identity that of an academy student?"

    This question, without a doubt, was extremely sensitive! Who held the power over the Primordial Academy? Had the hands of the Three Immortals reached into its affairs?

    Under the watchful eyes of many, the red-robed woman spoke without much hesitation. "Within the bounds of the Primordial Academy, all affiliated with the academy, whether they be Dean, Sacred Sages, or students, are bound by the academy''sws and disciplines. Should there be any vition, the Mystic Zenith Temple shall adjudicate."

    Her answer addressed Yun Xiao''s question.

    "Isn''t that settled then?" Yun Xiao looked at Celestial Official Qin, cheerfully saying, "In the Primordial Academy, thew is supreme. Everything is governed by thew, everything is judged by thew. Otherwise, it would betray the principles of the Mystic Zenith Temple, rendering its existence meaningless. Wouldn''t it be better to abolish the Mystic Zenith Temple and let the Three Celestial Officials manage the Primordial Academy?"

    "By thew, you are a criminal! You must die!" Tian Yuxue''s face turned red with anger.

    "You''re not wrong; I am indeed a death row inmate soon to be judged. So, don''t offend me. I don''t mind taking a few lives with me on the journey to the underworld, haha," Yun Xiao coldly said.

    With those words, everyone was left speechless. Everything Yun Xiao said epitomized what it meant to be a desperado.

    <em>I''m about to die anyway, so why should I fear your provocations? Expect me to be meek andpliant? Dream on!</em>

    To others, this was his attitude now.

    The disciples of the academy finally understood the brutal logic of this man.

    "Temple Head! He has confessed himself, hurry up and arrest him!" Tian Yuxue urged.

    "Arrest what? I''m a Level 7 Ding disciple, and procedures must be followed. Arresting me now would be a direct provocation of the Primordial Academy''s disciple ranking rights, wouldn''t it? Are you challenging the authority set by our ancestors?"

    Yun Xiao paused, then smiled. "Don''t think I''m new and unaware of thews. I''ve read all the archives. In the past ten years, whenever a Pathseeker Society member became a suspect, a scapegoat was found within five days. Isn''t that a fine tradition? Why should it fail now with me?"

    "Well said!"

    Yun Xiao''s words struck a chord with many Primordial Academy disciples, who couldn''t help but cheer for him.

    Once someone took the lead, responses followed, creating a chorus of shouts.

    Among these shouts, Yun Xiao coldly looked at Celestial Official Qin, "Do you hear the call of the people? This is the Primordial Academy, not a ce for the Celestial Official to interfere. Even if the deceased Qin Ziyue was your granddaughter, once she entered the academy, her life and death were for the academy to decide. I killed her, and it''s not your ce to touch me."

    If Celestial Official Qin couldn''t withstand this taunt, Yun Xiao was ready to retreat with his coffin; he feared nothing.

    Ultimately, what he grasped firmly was one point¡ªthew of the Mystic Zenith Temple!

    The Mystic Zenith Temple was the w that the descendants of the Three Immortals had extended into the Primordial Academy. If it could not establish itself fundamentally, it would lose its poprity within the Primordial Academy!

    Moreover, Yun Xiao understood that the top talents among the descendants of the Three Immortals were numerous, not limited to just Tian Zhixiu and a few others... Among them, the most core and pinnacle bloodlines were actually still within the Three Great Ruins!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Upon entering the Primordial Academy, one''s primary identity became that of an academy disciple, which had been the rule throughout history.

    So, Yun Xiao was not relying on Yun Dahai and Feng Qingcong to limit the three Celestial Officials, but on the Temple Head!

    Every instance of overstepping by those three Celestial Officials was actually a challenge to the rules set by the Temple Head.

    What surprised Yun Xiao slightly was that, under such circumstances, Celestial Official Qin hadn''t been angered to death yet.

    "May I have a word in private?" Celestial Official Qin was looking at the red-robed woman, Yun Dahai, and Feng Qingcong.

    A magic formation swirled! The three officials, including Celestial Official Qin, and these three entered it.

    Celestial Official Qin then said to Yun Dahai and Feng Qingcong, "About today''s events, you two must exin clearly to Dean Yu."

    "How so?" Feng Qingcong asked.

    "After so many years of integration between the descendants of the Three Immortals and the Primordial Academy, we''ve reached such a mutually beneficial situation, which wasn''t easy. This young man is deliberately provoking opposition and division between us. Letting him continue will benefit no one. I believe Dean Yu will see clearly and advise Lian Xi to abandon this walking cmity," Celestial Official Qin said solemnly.

    "Isn''t Celestial Official Qin overreacting?" Yun Dahai said.

    Celestial Official Qin let out a coldugh.

    "Look at how the academy''s disciples are looking at him now, is it still an overreaction? Young people are the easiest to influence. If one day he leads thousands of academy disciples to ughter the descendants of the Three Immortals, I wouldn''t be surprised at all.¡±

    "Only a few have died now, and the Three True Immortals, considering their respect for the Primordial Academy''s ethics, won''t mind. But if this turns into taking the Mystic Zenith Temple hostage to act against the entire group of the Three Immortals'' descendants, it will surely provoke the wrath of the Three Immortals, leading to what kind of disaster? I hope you and Dean Yu will carefully consider the consequences."

 Chapter 428: Youthful Symbol of Rebellion!

    Chapter 428: Youthful Symbol of Rebellion!

    Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong exchanged nces, then fell silent.

    "We share a bond with the Primordial Academy, one that we truly hope won''t be destroyed over a walking cmity that shouldn''t be protected at all costs, burying over a century of effort from both sides," Tian Yn added.

    This made it even harder for Feng Qingcong and Yun Dahe to respond.

    At that moment, the red-robed woman suddenly said, "I don''t understand what the rush is. A child has you so scared you can''t wait three days?"

    "Can you guarantee that he will be executed in three days?" Celestial Official Qin asked.

    "What else? The evidence is irrefutable, seen by all. If the Mystic Zenith Temple can''t deal with him, what''s the point of its existence?"

    After the red-robed woman spoke, she nced at Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong, then said to the three Celestial Officials, "For anyone who challenges the authority of the Mystic Zenith Temple''s justice, confessing and being executed is the only oue, even if the Dean tries to protect them, they will be punished as well."

    "Agreed."

    With that affirmative answer from the red-robed woman, the three Celestial Officials said no more.

    Clearly, this conversation was their way of intimidating Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong, a warning from the descendants of Three Immortals.

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    After saying so much, would the Academy Faction still dare to protect him? That would truly be unreasonable.

    "Temple Head," Tian Yn said solemnly, "I think this young man is dreaming of escaping his fate. It would beughable if he managed to flee in three days. Doesn¡¯t the Mystic Zenith Temple have any restrictions on Level 7 Ding disciples during their trial period?"

    The red-robed woman was speechless!

    If it weren''t for your children causing trouble within the Primordial Academy, would the Mystic Zenith Temple need to amend itsws to provide conveniences for these young masters, allowing them to make mistakes and still befortable?

    But now that Yun Xiao was using this privilege, they were anxious.

    "Don''t worry." After saying this, the red-robed woman tore open the magic formation and stepped out.

    Cloaked, she was like a streak of blood in the darkness, drawing all eyes as she approached Yun Xiao.

    Under her pressure, even Lian Xi felt a bit nervous, sticking close to Yun Xiao.

    In a blink, the red-robed woman was right in front of Yun Xiao! She exuded a rich, rose-like fragrance and had an intimidating presence, like a woman covered in thorns.

    "Your mastery of both sword and sigil is impressive," the red-robed woman said in a low voice, whispering into Yun Xiao''s ear.

    Her calm demeanor, unangered, made Yun Xiao wary. She was clearly more troublesome than the three Celestial Officials.

    "Thank you for your praise, Temple Head," Yun Xiao replied with a nod.

    "You''ve done wrong, and punishment is unavoidable."

    After the red-robed woman spoke, she turned to the group of disciples supporting Yun Xiao and announced, "Given Yun Xiao''s crime, witnessed by all, I''ve decided to strip him of his position as Crown of the Mystic Zenith Temple."

    Upon these words, silence fell, and naturally, no one dared to object.

    "That means, the selection for the Crown today ends in solitude," someone thought to themselves.

    "If only Yun Xiao hadn''t impulsively killed Qin Ziyue, he would have be a Crown, and maybe he wouldn''t be punishable..."

    Now, there was no turning back. However, what intrigued everyone was whether this was the only conclusion after the long discussion between the three Celestial Officials and the Temple Head.

    But they soon realized there was more!

    At that moment, magic swirled in the hands of the red-robed woman!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Blood seeped from her fingertips, merging with the magic to form a blood-red bat!

    "Give me your hand," the Temple Head said to Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao hesitated at the sight of the blood bat but eventually extended his hand.

    "This hand should have been used to y the zither, yet you used it for killing," the red-robed woman remarked as she looked at his slender and perfect fingers.

    "All means to please others, no conflict," Yun Xiao said.

    "Pleasing others by killing?" The red-robed womanughed.

    "Yes, pleasing the audience," Yun Xiao paused, then added seriously, "People despise injustice the most; I was venting their frustration for them."

    "Heh..." With a softugh, the red-robed woman said no more but ced the blood bat, infused with her own bloodline, onto Yun Xiao''s palm.

    Yun Xiao immediately felt a piercing pain as if needles were continuously pricking him.

    When the red-robed woman''s hand withdrew, a blood-red bat pattern appeared on Yun Xiao''s palm.

    Its eyes glowed blood-red, rooting itself in Yun Xiao''s veins and bones, eerily watching him.

    It was as if the red-robed woman herself was staring at him!

    After finishing, the red-robed woman patted his hand, turned around, and left, leaving behind a rich and mysterious fragrance.

    She approached Celestial Official Qin, Tian Yn, and others, saying, "The Blood Bat Curse has been cast. No matter where he goes, I will know his location. I''ve locked onto his blood. Even cutting off his hand would be futile; you don''t have to worry about him escaping."

    "The Blood Bat Curse..."

    The three Celestial Officials exchanged nces, their eyes filled with deep approval for the curse.

    "Much obliged, Temple Head," Celestial Official Qin bowed. This was exactly what he had wanted.

    "After the trial, please hand him over to us privately," Tian Yn said softly.

    "I''ll have my fun first. Don''t worry; I won''t kill him." The red-robed womanughed softly.

    "Is the Temple Head curious about his sword and sigil?" the Drunken Mad Sword asked from the side.

    The red-robed woman nced at him but didn''t answer the question. Instead, she said, "Three Immortals Day is approaching. You three have much to attend to; I won¡¯t see you out."

    "We await good news from the Temple Head." The three nodded, no longer paying attention to Yun Xiao, and along with the other parents of the Pathseeker Society members, they turned and left without a trace.

    "I hope you die a gruesome death, you mad fugitive!" Tian Yuxue red fiercely at Yun Xiao, following the others with the rest of the Pathseeker Society members.

    Today, they truly understood what it meant to be fearless when one had nothing to lose. No matter their background, wealth, or status, against those who weren''t afraid of dying, if they swore to take you down, they meant it. It was a matter of who lost more in death.

    Qin Ziyue had never encountered such people, which was why she was gone so suddenly.

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    And these Pathseeker Society members, usually so polished and respectable, now found themselves without their three leaders. Despite appearing calm on the surface, they were internally in chaos.

    Yun Xiao had already cast a shadow over them; now that their parents were gone, they didn''t dare stay another moment!

    With only three days left to live, if they angered him and he chased them down one by one, who wouldn''t be afraid?

    "Disperse!" After the red-robed woman uttered these words, she and the seven Crowns also left.

    Almost all descendants of the Three Immortals had left the Square of Righteous Law, leaving behind those whose blood was boiling with excitement.

    "Yun Xiao!"

    Unable to contain their exhration, they shouted his name. As disciples of the Primordial Academy, few hadn''t been suppressed or tormented by the Pathseeker Society.

    Yun Xiao had truly avenged them!

    One by one, they approached, surrounding Yun Xiao, their gazes towards himpletely transformed.

    This was exactly what Celestial Official Qin and the others feared. The Three Immortals Lineage had hoped to cultivate a young leader to set the tone, but now, they had raised a leader for the opposing faction to gather around!

    Yun Xiao had be the Academy Faction''s de-facto youthful symbol of rebellion!

    Lian Xi was indeed a leader in her own right,manding respect from the disciples, but Yun Xiao was entirely different from her.

    Lian Xi was too righteous and honorable! Leadership required a certain level of violence and recklessness, the ability to stir people''s hearts, to truly inspire fervor.

    "I don''t care, he is the youngest Crown in history!"

    "Crown Yun!"

    The eyes of tens of thousands zed with passion, their fervent hearts no longer concealed.

    Among the crowd were Lil Xiu and her group of dancing girls, tears of joy in their eyes for this fleeting victory and worry for the cmity toe in a few days.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, let me ask you, didn''t Crown Yun make everyone''s scalp tingle with excitement today?"

    "When the Pathseeker Society acted tyrannically, who dared to deal with them? Only Crown Yun!" A bald, muscr young man stood by Yun Xiao, his eyes aze, roaring with his booming voice.

    "Awesome, just awesome!"

    The crowdughed and cheered.

    "Who''s this?" Yun Xiao noticed the familiar bald head.

    "The son of Uncle River." Lian Xi, too, was caught up in the enthusiasm, her pretty face wearing a sweet smile. The man she chose had won the recognition of all his peers, finally silencing those who called him merely a pretty face.

    "He wouldn''t happen to be called Yun Xiaohe, would he?" Yun Xiao joked.

    "How could that be? Though Uncle Dahe looks rugged, he''s a schr," Lian Xiughed.

    "Crown Yun, I am your loyal little brother. We have a great fate between us. My name is Yun Yao!" the bald, muscr young man introduced himself with enthusiasm.

    "Yun Yao?" The name did indeed seem fated, sounding quite elegant. However, his appearance severely contradicted his name.

    "Brother Yao, I look forward to your support," Yun Xiao said.

    "Brother? What brother!" Yun Yao corrected excitedly, "Bro, I''m your real little brother. I admire you. Just call me by my nickname."

    "And that is?"

    "Ah Yao."

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle.

    "Sworn siblings!" Yun Yao was a maestro of atmosphere, standing in front of Yun Xiao, waving a pair of red underpants as he shouted, "Come on, let''s all support Brother Xiao! Screw the Pathseeker Society! The Primordial Academy is ours!"

    "Brother Xiao!"

    "Crown Yun!"

    Yun Xiao felt a bit embarrassed. It seemed he had be the leader of a group of rebellious youth. However, the upside was that his status as a youth leader in the Primordial Academy was now firmly established. Whether he was the real Crown or not didn''t matter at all.

    In the eyes of these young people, his challenge to authority and direct confrontation with the Celestial Officials made him a Crown!

    Yun Yao then passionately introduced his brothers and sisters to Yun Xiao, fully integrating him into theirmunity.

    "Nice to meet you, Brother Xiao, and sister-inw!" A green-d young man introduced himself with a wittyment, causing a burst ofughter.

    The illustrious Lian Xi, now known as Yun Xiao''s woman. Of course, it was just a joke. From being Lian Xi''spdog to Brother Xiao''s sister-inw showed the young people''s enthusiasm for Yun Xiao.

    As Yun Yao was making introductions, Yun Xiao and Lian Xi suddenly spotted a familiar face.

    "Sister?"

    In a corner was a girl dressed in pink, watching the celebrated couple with mixed emotions.

    Lian Xi quickly went over, took her hand gently, and asked softly, "What''s wrong? Aren''t you happy?"

    "No, it''s not that," Liu Yingying nced at Yun Xiao, her voice trembling, "I just..."

    Clearly, she had witnessed the entire selection for the Crown, her heart fluttering countless times.

    "Just what?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "Just..." Liu Yingying panicked, tears welling up as she quickly said, "Brother Xiao, I admit I spoke harshly a few days ago. Please, be magnanimous and don''t hold it against a little girl like me. I''m scared of you."

    Seeing her trembling, everyone knew she was genuinely frightened and couldn''t help butugh.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Don''t worry. Yun Xiao is petty with his enemies but generous with his own people," Lian Xiforted.

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    "Alright." Liu Yingying finally rxed, then joined in the group''s happiness.

    The youth tended to immerse themselves in the joy of the moment. For a while, everyone seemed to forget that Yun Xiao''s palm bore the mark of his death sentence in three days.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 429: Primordial Martial Furnace!

    Chapter 429: Primordial Martial Furnace!

    "Right!" In a moment of inspiration, amidst his excitement, Ah Yao eximed, "Since the Temple Head has stripped Brother Xiao of his Crown title, why don''t we vote to elect him as the new president of the Pathseeker Society?"

    The disciples of the Primordial Academy present, basking in the thrill of having vented their frustrations, echoed the suggestion enthusiastically.

    "After all, the two vice-presidents and president are gone now. The Pathseeker Society cannot be without a leader for a day!"

    "Brother Xiao is unmatched, both in schrly exams and martialbat. He alone is worth the three of them."

    "Brother Xiao is truly the qualified prodigy to lead all disciples of the Primordial Academy in the path of immortality!"

    The crowd''sments propelled the atmosphere to its peak.

    "Me as the president of the Pathseeker Society? Would voting work?" Yun Xiao asked Lian Xi.

    With a smile, Lian Xi responded, "Every election involves a voting process, but the Mystic Zenith Temple never discloses the actual vote counts. If it really mattered, the president should have been me or Brother Chi Yang."

    Yun Xiao understood. The vote was just for show. If the presidency of the Pathseeker Society was appointed by the Mystic Zenith Temple, how could they let him, a convicted criminal, take the role?

    Though it was impossible, seeing the young people''s excitement, Yun Xiao didn''t want to dampen their spirits.

    "Even if I took down the two vice-presidents and president, the Primordial Academy isn''t entirely under the control of the Academy Faction."

    Fortunately, for a long while after, the Pathseeker Society probably wouldn''t dare to bully or unt their power in the Primordial Academy.

    "Brother Xiao, what do you say? Will you take the position?" Ah Yao asked excitedly.

    "If I get elected, I''ll do it," Yun Xiao said cheerfully.

    "That would be fantastic! Brothers, let''s all vote for Brother Xiao!" Ah Yao shouted loudly, and the crowd responded withughter. This was what it meant to be a leader of the youth!

    "Brother Xiao, it would be great if you could really be the president of the Pathseeker Society!"

    In the midst of the excitement, Ah Yao let out a slight sigh, clearly understanding the unlikelihood of the situation.

    "Does it matter?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It does!" Ah Yao replied through gritted teeth, clearly upset. "Every two years, the Pathseeker Society collects <em>membership fees</em> from all disciples. This is authorized and supported by the Mystic Zenith Temple, supposedly for activity funds, but we never see any activities. The use of the funds ispletely opaque, and most of the time, it''s embezzled by those people!"

    "What happens if we don''t pay?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Then it''s big trouble. They have the backing of the Mystic Zenith Temple; they can torture people without facing any consequences, and any slight resistance from us couldnd us in jail. So, we can only pay up obediently. They control thew enforcement, after all. It''s precisely because everyone hates them that seeing you trample them today was so satisfying!" Ah Yao looked at Yun Xiao with admiration.

    Yun Xiao observed their frustrated gazes and knew the depth of their resentment.

    Before today''s Crown selection, Yun Xiao hadn''t noticed this. It showed that these people had to hide even their own grievances, treating the Pathseeker Society with utmost respect.

    "If you be the president of the Pathseeker Society, it will truly serve the disciples, rather than acting like arrogant vampires!" Ah Yao said passionately.

    "No worries. With me here, whether I be president or not, no one can abuse their power in the Primordial Academy," Yun Xiao stated.

    "Brother Xiao, you''re awesome!"

    With his words, the young people, regardless of gender, cheered, truly relieving the pressure in their hearts.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    They cheered in the Mystic Zenith Temple''s Square of Righteous Law... How could the Crowns and enforcers, mostly descendants of the Three Immortals, not see? This was a severe provocation of their authority.

    "Let them dream a little longer."

    "It''s only these youngsters who would admire a criminal to be executed in three days."

    The Crowns scoffed and disappeared into the shadows.

    Indeed, the disciples were so desperate for a leader who could stand up against privilege that they hadpletely forgotten about the impending three-day cmity.

    "Right," Ah Yao said to the crowd. "Now that the three presidents are gone, I wonder how the Pathseeker Society will handle the recently collected membership fees?"

    Yun Xiao was taken aback and asked, "A new batch of money was collected? How much?"

    "Over 100,000 paid up, totaling over 100 million Mid quality Immortal Jades," Ah Yao said gloomily.

    "That much?"

    That was ten times the assets of Dharma Crown Qin¡­ And it was collected every two years?

    "No choice, the Pathseeker Society decrees that the higher your realm, the more you pay. We call it protection money," Ah Yao exined.

    Yun Xiao was speechless. The collection of membership fees from all disciples showed how brazen the Three Immortal Lineage had be in the Primordial Academy.

    And with the support of the Mystic Zenith Temple, it was official and legal!

    "We got used to being robbed. But this time, their three presidents got robbed of their lives, haha..."

    This thought served as a small constion.

    Yun Xiao didn''t delve further into the topic but told everyone, "I have other matters to attend to and must leave first. Everyone, disperse and keep a low profile."

    He knew that continuing to attract attention would surely bring trouble. He wasn''t afraid for himself, but he didn''t want these passionate youths to suffer any consequences.

    "Brother Xiao, aren''t we going to have a celebration feast? Have a drink together?" Ah Yao asked.

    "Feast for what. Everyone go cultivate!" Yun Xiao said sternly.

    For cultivators, cultivation was the top priority. Engaging too much in societal activities was meaningless. Hosting a banquet and inviting girls to dance would only turn the dragon-ying hero into the dragon itself.

    "Brother Xiao has spoken, let''s disperse!"

    In an instant, the youths orderly retreated from the Mystic Zenith Temple.

    Watching Yun Xiao''s departing figure, their faces, joyous for so long, finally dimmed.

    "He only has three days left, s."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Divine Dawn Pavilion, returning from the Mystic Zenith Temple, Yun Xiao entered the cultivation room.

    Lian Xi was still worried and intended to ask more, but seeing Yun Xiao focusing on cultivation, she held back her words.

    "Lian Xi, what should he do?" Liu Yingying stood by the door of the cultivation room, her voice filled with concern.

    "I don''t know." Lian Xi bit her lip and shook her head, her eyes full of worry.

    "If only he hadn''t killed Qin Ziyue. He''s so powerful, Dean Yu should be able to clear his name personally. He had reasons for those he killed before, right?" Liu Yingying sat on a green stone, speaking helplessly.

    "Sister Yingying, didn''t you dislike him? Why the sudden concern?" Lian Xi asked.

    Liu Yingying, flustered, said, "Don''t get me wrong, I just..."

    She stuttered for a while before collecting her thoughts, "I misjudged him before, thinking he was all looks and no substance. But today, I have to admit, your taste is impable. This man is too..."

    "Too what?"

    "Too outstanding." Liu Yingying lowered her head, her face slightly red.

    "Outstanding or not, remember he''s mine!" Lian Xi huffed.

    "Hehe, are you jealous?" Liu Yingying teased, "I was just teasing you."

    "Really?" Lian Xi looked through the window at Yun Xiao in the cultivation room, "But I''m still d that you and the others have finally recognized him."

    "It''s a pity about the Blood Bat Curse; he can''t escape and only has three days left." Liu Yingying sighed again.

    "It won''t happen." Lian Xi gazed at the young man, her eyes somewhat vacant, murmuring, "No matter the cost, I''ll make sure he survives."

    "Lian Xi..." Liu Yingying was stunned. She had never seen Lian Xi like this before. Such a statement was like a destiny-bound oath.

    "You two, are truly destined to be together, both so unique. Perhaps you''ve been entwined for hundreds of reincarnations," Liu Yingying remarked.

    "Hundreds of reincarnations..." Lian Xi silently repeated those words, her eyes fixed on that solitary white figure.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the cultivation room, Yun Xiao nced at the blood bat in his palm and locked eyes with it.

    "How about it?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    "In the Primordial Ruins, there''s no solution, but for you, it''s a low-grade technique." Blue Star chuckled. "Do you want to get rid of it now? I can teach you how."

    "Not now." Yun Xiao closed his hand, paying it no further attention.

    He began to absorb Tian Zhixiu''s Seed of Creation, the Mystic Golden Dao Embryo.

    "With this Mystic Golden Dao Embryo as the foundation for your martial body, cultivate the Primordial Martial Furnace within your body using the Primordial Martial Dao. The Primordial Martial Furnace, independent from the Dantian''s power and carved out within the flesh, can serve as an augmentative force for your Dantian''s primordial void, making yourbat form more perfect even without merging with the Divine Destion Physique," Blue Star exined.

    "Does Lian Xi have a Primordial Martial Furnace in her body?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Correct. She cultivates in the same way, using the furnace as her foundation, with her Dantian power as auxiliary. So, she''s a pure Martial Cultivator," Blue Star continued, raising an eyebrow in amusement. "One more thing, hers is a Yin furnace, and yours is a Yang furnace."

    "So..."

    "Your Primordial Martial Furnace, just like how you dealt with Chen Xi before, can absorb her Yin furnace in one fell swoop," Blue Star chuckled mischievously.

    "One step to the stomach?" Red Moon piped up, poking its head out.

    "To your sister," Yun Xiao pressed it back into his embrace, leaving only Blue Star visible, "No need to harm her, I''ll rely on myself."

    He was somewhat confused about Chen Xi and Lian Xi now. Initially, the n was to insert the incarnation of transcending cmity into her heart. Now, things had beplicated.

    In just a few days, Yun Xiao had developed feelings for her!

    Yun Xiao came with a heart of detachment, but the situation turned out more bizarre than he expected. Every time he saw Lian Xi, his brain considered them as two people, but his hands and lips disagreed.

    "A real protagonist we have here!" Blue Star scoffed.

    "Stop the nonsense, let''s start the furnace. The Seed of Creation has been absorbed," Yun Xiao said.

    "Can''t start it yet," Blue Star chuckled.

    "Why?"

    "The Primordial Martial Dao, after all, is a secondary system. It requires some materials to establish a foundation. You need to find some <em>metallic materials</em> as the foundation for the furnace. It''s best if they''re of Yin grade or higher, and even better with Yang grade metallic materials," Blue Star exined.

    "Yang grade metallic materials? Those are used for forging top-tier magic treasures like the Binding God Cord; they''re not easy to find," Yun Xiao frowned.

    The better the materials, the stronger the foundation, he understood. The problem was, he wasn''t exactly wealthy now. His cultivation consumed a lot, barely maintaining a modest lifestyle.

    "Ask Lil Xi."

 Chapter 430: Nailed to the Pillar of Shame!

    Chapter 430: Nailed to the Pir of Shame!

    Yun Xiao rose to his feet and pushed the door open. By then, Liu Yingying had already left, leaving only Lian Xi guarding the doorway alone.

    "Are you spying on me?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "Not at all," Lian Xi huffed.

    "We''ve already kissed; why the shyness?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "It''s you who yed the rogue, tarnishing my image," Lian Xi retorted.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    With little time to spare, Yun Xiao stopped teasing her and instead inquired about materials rted to metals and ores.

    "Why do you need these? These are for cultivating the path of a Martial Immortal¡­" Lian Xi looked at him oddly. The key was, the materials he requested felt eerily familiar to her!

    "Don''t worry about it, I just need them. Do you have any?"

    Yun Xiao''s request was the epitome of a freeloader''s mantra, the kind that asserted dominance for those who used it.

    "I don''t have any right now," Lian Xi pondered before exining, "In the Primordial Ruins, the path of the Martial Immortal is held in high regard, consuming a vast amount of such metals and ores. For anything above the Yin grade, you might have to check the Jade Immortal Tower."

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    "The Jade Immortal Tower?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s one of thergest trading houses in the Primordial Ruins, mainly dealing in metals, ores, and magic treasures, with mining operations across various worlds," Lian Xi exined.

    "It''s not run by the descendants of the Three Immortals?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "No, it isn''t," Lian Xi looked at Yun Xiao and continued, "Whether outside or inside the Primordial Academy, the descendants of the Three Immortals are only a part of it. Most people in the Primordial Ruins are natives who have inherited their lineage from the era of the Martial Emperor, with ancestors from various worlds. The Jade Immortal Tower belongs to one of those ns."

    "I see." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "However," Lian Xi continued, "the original powers outside the Primordial Academy,pared to those inside, tend to submit more to the Three Immortals. Many have even integrated into the Three Great Ruins."

    This was quite normal.

    "Are the rumors about the Martial Emperor n true? You know, that by using the hearts of young girls for cultivation, they courted divine retribution, changing the Five Tribtions Realm to the Five Decays Realm. So, now half of all cultivators die at each decline, and without exceptional talent, most would perish. And that''s why the legacy of the Martial Emperor n is held in such disdain in the Primordial Ruins¡­" Yun Xiao looked into Lian Xi''s eyes as he spoke.

    "Mhm¡­" Lian Xi lowered her head, her voice trembling, looking as if she wanted to say more.

    Yun Xiao said no more. He changed the subject and took her hand, "Come, take me to the Jade Immortal Tower."

    "Now? But this Blood Bat Curse¡­" Lian Xi looked worriedly at his palm.

    "It''s fine, the Temple Head is monitoring my location, but hasn''t restricted my travels," Yun Xiao said.

    "But, buying these materials requires Immortal Jade. Do you have any?" Lian Xi asked.

    "You having them is enough," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "Alright¡­" Lian Xi couldn''t help but smile through her frustration.

    As they were about to leave, an elder in a white robe appeared beside them, speaking softly, "Young miss, we advise you not to leave the Primordial Academy in the next few days."

    "Why?" Lian Xi asked.

    The elder in the white robe nced at Yun Xiao. "The matter of the Crown selection has spread, and some have added fuel to the fire in secret, stirring up public outrage within the Primordial Ruins."

    Lian Xi thought for a moment and said, "They''re just rumors and gossip; it''s nothing. The hearts of the people are mostly good."

    "Mm." The elder only offered a suggestion. If Lian Xi still wished to go out, he would arrange for vignt protection. It had to be said, the level of protection the Primordial Academy provided for Lian Xi was of the highest standard. No one else received such treatment.

    The moment she stepped out of the Divine Dawn Pavilion, she was almost always protected by a convoy of hundreds of powerful individuals, each at least at the level of a Crown like Dharma Crown Qin.

    They protected her discreetly, hardly impacting Lian Xi''s life.

    "Crown Yun, Lady Lian Xi!"

    As the two walked through the Primordial Academy, they were met with envious and respectful nces from the young disciples.

    However, the moment they stepped out of the Primordial Academy, it felt as if they had plummeted from the heavens into the abyss.

    Despite it being broad daylight, the streets before them were filled with a chilling cold.

    Upon closer inspection, it was the icy gazes hiding behind doors and screens.

    When Yun Xiao and Lian Xi appeared on a bustling street, the previously noisy street instantly fell silent, as if a snowstorm had swept through, coating every face in the ruins with frost.

    This scene was even beyond Lian Xi''s expectations. She was slightly confused and held Yun Xiao''s hand even tighter.

    Suddenly, a young girl standing in front of a tavern eximed indignantly, "Murderous devil! Child of disaster! Scourges of the ruins, hand in hand to hell with you!"

    Once someone spoke up, the entire cold street quickly became restless.

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    "That''s right! That''s Yun Xiao! I heard that in the Primordial Academy, under the protection of Dean Yu, he killed over a dozen innocent disciples of the Pathseeker Society right in front of their grieving parents!"

    "What over a dozen? He wiped out the entire Pathseeker Society! Their bodies are still piled up at the entrance of Mystic Zenith Temple¡­"

    "Imagine being a parent, forced to watch as the child you raised for over a decade is brutally ughtered by this demon. How much pain must they feel in their hearts?"

    "Why hasn''t the Primordial Academy executed him already!"

    Some incredulously asked.

    "Don''t you see? He''s the consort of this child of disaster. With Dean Yu covering the skies with one hand, who dares to touch someone she protects? The Mystic Zenith Temple is in a tough spot. Under the pressure of this she-devil, would they dare to convict this murderer?"

    "Ridiculous! Truly, damn ridiculous! A sacrednd of the immortal Dao tradition is trampled by a she-devil, a child of disaster, and a murderer, descending into such filth and squalor. I beg the Three Immortals to annihte this wretched ce at once!"

    "You don''t know the half of it. These so-called preceptors are filthy to the core. A friend of mine''s brother was in the Primordial Academy. He personally witnessed Dean Yu and her disciples engaging in indecencies. We hardly believed it until my friend''s brother died suddenly at home a few dayster!"

    "The Primordial Academy is too dark, too terrifying! Who would dare send their descendants there for cultivation in the future?"

    "They''re misleading the youth instead of teaching the Ascension Techniques!"

    Thousands along the street watched Yun Xiao and Lian Xi pass by, arms folded, sighing in sorrow and anger.

    "The morals of society are degrading, the world grows colder."

    "Those who stand up for justice are ughtered like dogs, the ungrateful are the literati... none involved in running these academies are good!"

    These infuriated words buzzed around the young pair like mosquitoes.

    "It seems the people hate us even more than thest time we went out," Yun Xiao said tly.

    "There''s no helping it. Whoever holds the power of speech dictates right and wrong. In this world, proving one''s innocence is the hardest thing. Even if one were tomit suicide in protest, they''d still nder the corpse." Lian Xi sighed.

    "Are you saying, then, that the fault lies with those who stir the pot and nder? That themon folk, who join in the uproar without discerning right from wrong, and pin people to the pir of shame, are meless?" Yun Xiao stopped and looked down at her to ask.

    Lian Xi paused. "If beings in cultivation are hindered, their eyes clouded, misled by evil demons, what fault do they bear? The fault lies with the saviors who failed to eliminate the evil, failing to create a golden age for all."

    Yun Xiao smiled, "So, a person who wants to save everything must fight demons on one hand and be severely wounded by the very people he wishes to protect on the other, shouldering everything to build a golden age for all. That''s correct?"

    "What else? The world is a vast sea of suffering, and all beings suffer within it. We, who are uniquely blessed, must take up the mantle of salvation, even if the demons are strong and the nder vicious. We should bear no resentment, offering our lives in gratitude to the heavens..." As Lian Xi spoke, white mes ignited in her eyes¡ªa me of belief in her destiny that no one could extinguish.

    Yun Xiao watched her, spellbound. It was as if he saw everything that Chen Xi had said to him on that night, seated upon the dragon throne.

    Once, Yun Xiao thought the same. To achieve true greatness, one had to withstand everything, even if those one wished to protect stabbed them in the back. They had to ept it. And so, he set out like a madman to eradicate all demons.

    But now, along this journey, he had witnessed far too many human hearts. In this regard, he was no longer as steadfast as Lian Xi. This wasn''t a wavering of his Dao Heart. It was the birth of his new Worldly Dao Heart!

    He wasn''t that noble; he was selfish, greedy, angry, and foolish. So, when he killed in the Mystic Zenith Temple to save girls like Lil Xiu, and then heard these unimaginable yet epted as true usations, Lian Xi might not get angry, but he did.

    "Murderer, child of disaster, vile couple! Kill me too, then!"

    "I curse your parents, children, and descendants to die miserably! Their souls to scatter, doomed to be pigs and dogs for a hundred generations!"

    The young girl in front of the tavern, seeing many joining in the uproar, shouted the loudest. Her words had barely fallen when a streak of azure light pierced through her throat!

    <em>THUD! </em>Her body fell, and the entire street instantly fell silent.

    "W-what are you doing?" Lian Xi stared at him, tears welling up in her eyes. "Why would you kill someone so defenseless..."

    "Defenseless?" Yun Xiao pointed at the girl. "A teenager at the Heaven Sanctuary Realm, in my hometown, is considered a supreme talent, an Overseer-level powerhouse."

    "Uh." Lian Xi was stunned.

    Yun Xiao grabbed her arm, his voice deep, "You need to understand, this is the Primordial Ruins. Everyone standing here is a talent of the Immortal path from thousands of worlds and peak powerhouses. There are no so-calledmoners or ordinary beings. They, like you, are blessed by the heavens. Not everyone can im the moral high ground bybeling themselves asmon folk and justify murder and arson."

    "Uh." Lian Xi was even more at a loss for words.

    "Lastly, I can''t stand being slighted. I don''t want the person I care about to be slighted either."

    After saying this, Yun Xiao pulled her along, walking away from the silent street.

    "Yun Xiao¡­" Lian Xi looked at him, then tremulously asked, "If one day, everyone in the Primordial Ruins wants me dead, and I can''t me them, what would you do?"

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    Yun Xiao looked ahead. This was a world where beings were like ghosts under a golden celestial mist. Dark corners teemed with crawling serpents andughing demons and devils. This was both the ruins and a den of monsters.

    "Ah." Yun Xiao took a breath, then smiled at Lian Xi. "Kill them all! No exnations needed!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 431: Killing a Few Wont Change Anything! You Have to Wipe Out the Whole Lot of Them!

    Chapter 431: Killing a Few Won''t Change Anything! You Have to Wipe Out the Whole Lot of Them!

    The Jade Immortal Tower, this was a building entirely made of white jade, with thirty-three floors, symbolizing the thirty-three heavens, standing amidst the golden mist of the Primordial Ruins'' artificial sun.

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi stepped inside under the scrutinizing gaze of many. In the dark corners of the surrounding streets, numerous cold and piercing eyes lingered without dispersing.

    In one such dark room, a group of people in ck robes and ck hats were gathered.

    The leader, a middle-aged man, took off his hat, revealing a rough and cold face¡ªit was Yuan Zhantian from the Great Yuan Residence.

    "Dad, they''ve gone in," a youth with silver eyes approached to report, while in a corner, a young man with golden eyes and a missing arm was present. They were Yuan Wu and Yuan Fu, the two brothers who had visited the Nine Hells.

    "Mhm." Yuan Zhantian nced at his eldest son in the corner and said, "Are you sure that in the Nine Hells, he wasn''t hiding his strength, but instead, in just two or three days, he soared through three realms?"

    "I''m sure of it! Tian Zhixiu is stronger than me. If he had that kind of strength back then, he wouldn''t have been restricted by me," Yuan Wu said with a gloomy look. He had hoped to see Yun Xiao die but instead witnessed the terrifying rise of this genius from the Nine Hells.

    "Is it possible that he always had that strength but dared not show it?" Yuan Fu pondered with his silver eyes. "I can''t believe someone could improve like that. It''s too exaggerated. It''s not something a human can achieve."

    "It doesn''t matter," Yuan Zhantian sneered. "Anyway, I''ve reported it. If the higher-ups think it''s necessary, it might even be passed on to the Three Immortals."

    "Hmm..." Yuan Wu''s golden eyes stared out the window at the Jade Immortal Tower, his face gradually distorting into a coldugh. "To be tarnished like this, and he still dares to kill our people in the streets, has he gone mad?"

    After speaking, he looked at Yuan Zhantian and said, "Dad, this man is vicious and brutal. Should we exploit his weakness and strike him again?"

    "Of course, we should," Yuan Zhantian''s eyes gleamed coldly. "I just met with Tian Yn, and she said if this kid dares leave the Primordial Academy, we must fuel the fire, making him the symbol of sin for the Primordial Ruins."

    "A mere brute, only good at showing off his ferocity, he must be somewhat deranged," Yuan Fu mocked.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Dad, what''s your n?" Yuan Wu asked.

    "In this world, who can most easily arouse people''s sympathy?" Yuan Zhantian smirked.

    "Women, children, the disabled," Yuan Fu replied.

    Yuan Zhantian waved his hand grandly, "Go, find some disabled girls."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Jade Immortal Tower¡­

    "Yin grade metals and ores?" A richly dressed elder stepped forward to greet Yun Xiao and Lian Xi.

    "Please, Manager Tang, lead the way," Lian Xi said politely.

    "This way, then," Manager Tang nodded. His attitude towards Lian Xi was decent.

    In fact, most descendants of the Three Immortals on the Primordial Ruins were rather courteous to Lian Xi. Rumors about her being a child of disaster were unconfirmed and only whispered among some.

    Of course, with the rumors bing more rampant these days, anyone with a bit of sense could guess who was behind it.

    The ones who appeared the most polite on the surface might very well be the cruelest behind the scenes.

    Lian Xi mentioned that although the Jade Immortal Tower was not a descendant of the Three Immortals, it was closely associated with the Three Great Ruins. If it weren''t for Yun Xiao''s need for high quality metals and ores, there would have been no need toe here today.

    In a blink, Manager Tang led them to the 29th floor.

    Next to the staircase leading to the 30th floor stood a que with the words <em>No Entry</em> engraved on it.

    "Can''t go up?" Yun Xiao asked casually.

    "The floors above thirty are reserved for VIPs," Manager Tang said with a smile.

    "Am I not a VIP?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "..." Manager Tang continued to smile, not saying anything.

    "And she isn''t?" Yun Xiao pointed at Lian Xi. He asked out of curiosity because Blue Star had mentioned that there were many good things above.

    Manager Tang nced at Lian Xi and kept smiling.

    "So, you can''t be a VIP with just Immortal Jade, huh?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Yes." Manager Tang nodded with a smile.

    "Opening for business and ssifying customers into ranks, disgusting," Yun Xiaomented.

    "Young Master Yun is cynical. It''s just industry rules," Manager Tang said with a smile.

    With no ess allowed, Yun Xiao had no choice but to make his selection on the 29th floor. It wasn''t too crowded here. So before long, he found a type of ore called Gold Diamond Crystal.

    This ore was in the form of fragmented crystals, containing the power of gold mes, and was ssified as a Lower Yin grade.

    Blue Star rated it as <em>barely usable.</em> There were better items avable, but Yun Xiao chose the Gold Diamond Crystal because he couldn''t afford anything better.

    "For a total of 99 nuggets, each priced at 100,000 Mid Immortal Jades, thates to 9,900,000 Mid Immortal Jades."

    Even at this price, Yun Xiao had to borrow some money from Lian Xi.

    "Young Master Yun is quite the spender!" Manager Tang chuckled softly. "Did this moneye from killing people and looting treasures?"

    "Do you have a problem with that?" Yun Xiao nced at him. The old man had been all smiles but not genuinely so, quite irritating throughout.

    "Not at all, I fear death," Manager Tang quicklyughed. "I''ll wrap these up for you right away."

    Yun Xiao didn''t want to cause trouble; getting the transaction done was his aim. The outing hadn''t been very pleasant. He tried not to care, but seeing Lian Xi''s frustrated look made his heart ache.

    "Wait." Just as Manager Tang was halfway through packing, a cold female voice suddenly came from behind.

    Yun Xiao turned to see two women standing behind him!

    One of them, a girl in a blue dress with white skin surrounded by an aura of cold, was Tian Yuxue.

    The woman beside her, in her early twenties, wore a long dark red tight-fitting dress that entuated her voluptuous figure. Her low-cut dress and curled hair cascading over her chest gave her a mature, peach-like allure, much more so than the young girls around.

    "Miss," Manager Tang stopped and respectfully addressed her. Clearly, this was the young mistress of the Jade Immortal Tower, a woman of high standing!

    Yun Xiao nced behind them, noticing a dozen or so youthful and beautiful girls, all familiar-looking, probably disciples of the doctrinal association.

    Without looking, he knew they all stared at him with cold, murderous eyes.

    This young mistress of the Jade Immortal Tower, like the other descendants of the Three Immortals, was in the same circle. Being older than Tian Zhixiu, her strength was extraordinary, with her cultivation in the Five Decays Realm surpassing that of Tian Zhixiu.

    "Let''s go," Lian Xi said, pulling Yun Xiao away as the young mistress appeared. "We were set up. She won''t sell it to us."

    "Who said I won''t sell?" the young mistress of the Jade Immortal Tower opened her red lips to speak.

    "Thenplete the transaction," Yun Xiao didn''t want to argue with these women; it was pointless.

    "What''s the rush?" The young mistress nced at the Gold Diamond Crystal. "The price has changed, 100 billion Mid Immortal Jades... per nugget."

    "..." Yun Xiao stared at her coldly.

    "Can''t afford it? If you know you''re poor, don''t climb such high towers," the young mistress smiled.

    "Let''s go," Lian Xi felt guilty. "Sorry, I didn''t expect this to happen..."

    "It''s okay," Yun Xiao said. It was just a transaction; if it couldn''t bepleted, it wasn''t meant to be. They turned to leave.

    The young mistress sneered, "Leaving so soon? Aren''t you the one who made a fortune by killing? Kill me then, and just rob the Jade Immortal Tower directly. After all, your little sugar momma can cover for you."

    Yun Xiao turned back to look at her. "Alright, I''ll remember that."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    As they approached the staircase, a white-robed elder appeared beside Lian Xi. His expression was grim as he spoke, "Young miss, please don''t leave through the main entrance."

    "Why?" Lian Xi paused, surprised.

    "Several young girls have been found dead at the entrance, each with a sword through their throat. Their bodies are now covered with white pieces of cloth, piled at the entrance of the Jade Immortal Tower. The scene has already attracted tens of thousands of spectators," the white-robed elder exined.

    "Who could be so heartless..." Lian Xi''s eyes reddened slightly.

    "I don''t know..." The elder nced at Yun Xiao and sighed, "But, it''s being med on Young Master Yun."

    Yun Xiao opened the window and looked down, only to see the street below packed with dense crowds, numbering over a hundred thousand.

    In the center of the crowd, several small bodies covered in white clothy on the ground, likely only a few years old.

    The white cloth was stained with blood. Little arms sticking out from under the cloth were covered in mud and blood. Nearby, their <em>parents</em> were rolling on the ground, wailing and crying heart-wrenchingly.

    Such tragic cries sent chills down the spine and ignited fury in the heart.

    "Murder requires reparation! Reparation..."

    "Yun Xiao! Murderous demon,e out!!"

    Over a hundred thousand people, with bloodshot eyes, screamed into the sky, creating a shocking scene.

    "How heartbroken these parents must feel..."

    "Such young children, too cruel! Utterly heartless!"

    "The world is unjust, with devils in power, blood debts must be repaid with blood!"

    "Dean Yu, you have raised the most brutal murderer in history! You are the eternal sinner of the Primordial Ruins! The ancestors of the Primordial Academy will be rolling over in their graves because of you!"

    The thunderous roars made the Jade Immortal Tower tremble.

    "What''s going on? Why don''t these people seek the truth before concluding it was you..." Lian Xi was even more bewildered, turning to Yun Xiao.

    "Because... although their brains seem to be theirs, they are actually being manipted by others." Bloodshot eyes began to appear in Yun Xiao''s gaze as he stared at the white cloth.

    "I''m sorry." At this moment, he realized that if he lost his rationality in anger, those who orchestrated this would only be more pleased.

    "Creator, being a savior is not so simple," Blue Star said meaningfully.

    Yun Xiao looked at the myriad of lives, silently pondering.

    "Standing on the side of humanity, you and the Primordial Immortal Ancestor have different beliefs and attitudes. Who truly embodies the way?" Blue Star chuckled. He didn''t care about these matters; he only wished to reforge the Creator Immortal. So, he could not sympathize with the anger in Yun Xiao''s heart at this moment.

    Yun Xiao didn''t need them to feel all this. At a high enough level, what the worldcked the least were living beings. Who truly cared about the dignity and life of an ordinary person?

    "What do you think?" Blue Star asked.

    "The lineage of the Three Immortals is like a vast covering the skies, locking down the Primordial Ruins. Everything here affects the beings of countless worlds. I aim to challenge this. Each step I take affects everything. I admit, it''s hard to find a situation in this vast cosmos where one can have the best of both worlds without any harm. So, I only hope that with each step forward, no more innocents will have to be sacrificed for this."

    The Primordial Ruins was like a log infested with borers. Driving a sharp sword into it would kill the borers, but how could one ensure not to harm the log? Do nothing? Then, the log would never have a chance for new life and would be consumed entirely.

    Often, a perfect savior only existed in fairy tales. Unless the enemy was too weak. But the fact was, the Three Immortals who ruled over the Primordial Ruins were the most terrifying opponents Yun Xiao had ever faced.

    Because they controlled not just the physical bodies but also the hearts, minds, and souls of people...

    The poison of thetter, like a nightmare, was even harder to dispel!

    "I want to go down, to prove your innocence, to find the real culprit, and to avenge those children!" Lian Xi said with intense eyes.

    "Seek revenge, kill a few people, and continue to solidify the identity of a murderous fiend?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Then tell me, how can we uphold justice?" Lian Xi countered.

    "To uphold justice, to change the Primordial Ruins, to bring true peace and fairness to the world, killing a few people won''t change anything. You have to wipe out the whole lot of them," Yun Xiao said profoundly.

    "Which lot of people?" Lian Xi looked up, meeting his gaze.

    "They are not really people, but parasites that suck the blood and brains from people''s heads."

    Sucking blood wasn''t the worst part. Sucking the brain was the cruelest. Because those victims, even if one were to try and save them, would still turn on their saviors.

    Yun Xiao stood atop the Jade Immortal Tower, a volcano of rage churning within him.

    "Under the All Life Devouring Gu, there is no world for themon folk." He harbored a deep anger for this world.

    And below, the myriad of lives knelt and cried out, "We beseech the Three Immortals, to y the murderous fiend, to uphold justice, to protect the way of the world."

 Chapter 432: No Overnight Grudges!

    Chapter 432: No Overnight Grudges!

    In the Primordial Academy, within the Divine Dawn Pavilion, even from this location, one could hear the parade of cursesing from outside the academy. They cursed Yun Xiao, they cursed Lian Xi, they cursed the ancestors of the Primordial Academy. Their minds were infested with worms as they cursed, tears and snot flowing freely.

    "Lian Xi, is Brother Xiao alright?" asked Ah Yao and a group of people gathered outside the Divine Dawn Pavilion, their eyes filled with worry.

    "You''re not cursing him?" Lian Xi asked in surprise.

    "Curse him for what? Only a fool wouldn''t see that this is just another trick by those descendants of the Three Immortals!"

    "It''s by these means they ckened the names of our elders who were originally in the Mystic Zenith Temple, forced them out, and then snatched the temple for themselves," Ah Yao said indignantly.

    "Now, they''re starting to sling mud at my master, using my brother and me," Lian Xi said, looking down.

    "It seems they''reying the groundwork to take down the entire Primordial Academy," Ah Yao said, eyes reddening.

    "What should we do?"

    The other disciples of the Academy Faction were at a loss.

    "I just went out to argue with the people outside and got drenched in shit, sigh."

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    "If it weren''t for the protective formation, the academy would have been overrun by the angry mob."

    Just as they were out of ideas, a voice suddenly came from within the Divine Dawn Pavilion.

    "Lian Xi,e in."

    "You all disperse for now; it''s alright," Lian Xi told them, before turning back to the Divine Dawn Pavilion.

    Yun Xiao was sitting inside the pavilion, opening his eyes.

    "You''ve made another breakthrough?" Lian Xi was stunned.

    "Just two stages. I''ve reached the Late Saint Wheel Realm, still far behind you," Yun Xiao said.

    "You just stepped into the Saint Wheel realm this morning..."

    And now it was just evening. At this rate, would he reach the Five Decays Realm by tomorrow?

    She was regarded as the number one talent in the Primordial Ruins, yet even she wanted to say to Yun Xiao, "You''re not human..."

    "Give me your hand," Yun Xiao stood up and said to her.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Mhm." Lian Xi nodded, extending her hand towards Yun Xiao and asked, "What for?"

    Yun Xiao''s palm pressed against hers, their fingers interlocked tightly.

    "It hurts..." Lian Xi frowned. When Yun Xiao released his grip, she looked at her palm and was stunned. There, on her palm, was a blood bat imprint.

    And Yun Xiao, shaking his hand, clearly showed his Blood Bat Curse had vanished!

    "What are you nning?" Lian Xi asked, bewildered.

    "An alibi." Yun Xiao said.

    "Huh?" Lian Xi''s eyes widened as she looked at him.

    Yun Xiao nced outside the Divine Dawn Pavilion and whispered, "It''s getting dark. I''m going for a walk. Don''t follow me."

    "Okay..." As soon as Lian Xi nodded, a white shadow shed by and disappeared from her sight.

    She could only look down, silently contemting the blood bat curse on her palm.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Pathseeker Pce, over 100 disciples of the Pathseeker Society were gathered here. But this time, there was no joy or celebration.

    "Sister Wenqian is here."

    A soft call warmed everyone''s hearts.

    "Shh, quiet!" Tian Yuxue entered from outside, sealing the door behind her.

    Standing by her side was the young mistress of the Jade Immortal Tower, Tang Wenqian. She wore a red dress, her arms crossed, smiling at the younger brothers and sisters of the Three Immortal Lineage.

    Tian Yuxue, however, was more serious. "Keep it down, everyone. Seal all the doors and windows tightly. Three Immortals Day is approaching, and we can''t let those from the Academy Faction find any faults with us."

    "Got it, Sister Yuxue!"

    "Don''t worry, the whole Primordial Ruins is cursing that murderer. Who has the time to care about us?"

    "Sister Yuxue, will everyone get a share?"

    The 100 descendants of the Three Immortals gathered together, looking expectantly at Tian Yuxue and Tang Wenqian, their eyes gleaming in the darkness.

    Indeed, they had also turned off the lights.

    Amidst their eager gazes, Tian Yuxue spoke calmly, "Rest assured, everyone will get a share!"

    "Long live Sister Yuxue!"

    "Sister Yuxue is the best!"

    Their hearts celebrated wildly; had secrecy not been necessary, they likely would have cheered aloud.

    "In the past, when Brother Zhixiu was in charge, he would take the lion''s share. He wasn''t as generous as Sister Yuxue..." many thought to themselves.

    "Brother, ah." Tian Yuxue nced at the three empty seats above, feeling inevitably deste.

    However, she didn''t wallow in sadness for long before telling the crowd, "The person you should be most thankful to is Sister Wenqian. She helped us exchange the low-quality, defective Immortal Jades, which were contributed by those <em>leeks</em>, for Mid quality ones."

    "Thank you, Sister Wenqian!"

    "May Sister Wenqian live forever!"

    Among the 100 gathered, the one of the lowest status was on par with Huyan Pin, and all were future pirs among the descendants of the Three Immortals!

    "It had to be Sister Wenqian..."

    "Right, otherwise, we''d end up with low-quality, defective immortal jades, which aren''t very useful."

    "These people are so poor, that''s why there are so many inferior products."

    "They only contribute once every two years, which is too lenient. I think we could propose to the Mystic Zenith Temple to make them contribute yearly."

    Their smiles grew wider as they spoke.

    "Keep it down! The Academy Faction is watching. If anyone slips up, beware the safety of your entire family," Tian Yuxue said helplessly. She couldn''t suppress so many people on her own, otherwise, she could have taken arger share for herself.

    "Understood!" All the disciples of the Pathseeker Society crowded around, their eyes fervently fixed on Tian Yuxue.

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    With ten thousand people paying membership fees for a hundred people to spend, each would get the fees of about a thousand members!

    The amount was substantial.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>Tian Yuxue, one after another, pulled out hundreds of golden Bags of Holding from her bosom, piling them onto a jade table.

    This was her reason for visiting Tang Wenqian today, not expecting to run into Yun Xiao.

    "The amount is the same for everyone, one bag each, enough for everyone. Take your own, no pushing, maintain your dignity. You are descendants of the Three Immortals, not bumpkins from the lower worlds!" Tian Yuxue huffed.

    "Yes, yes, yes." Though the disciples of the Pathseeker Society verbally agreed, they were still afraid of missing out.

    "Sister Wenqian, I''m sorry you had to see this," Tian Yuxue said helplessly to the enchanting woman beside her.

    Tang Wenqian smiled gently and said, "A gentleman loves wealth, obtained in a righteous manner, without disgrace."

    "Truly righteous indeed."

    Suddenly, a strange voice rose from among the crowd.

    Everyone paused for a moment, then looked in that direction!

    They saw a young man in white standing on the jade table, stuffing several Bags of Holding into his bosom.

    "Yun Xiao!!!!"

    A shriek tore through the air in the Pathseeker Pce.

    Hundreds of people widened their eyes, their legs numb as they stared at him! They had no idea how he had appeared there, not even realizing he had been queuing with the crowd!

    Tang Wenqian and Tian Yuxue suddenly frowned.

    "Scatter! Go!" Tian Yuxue urgently said. Though they were many, she herself was already frightened.

    Hundreds of hearts trembled wildly!

    "Go?" Yun Xiao raised his head, a hint of blood appearing in his eyes.

    <em>HUM! </em>With a raise of his hand, a burst of azure light suddenly flourished in the dark hall!

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH WHOOSH! </em>It moved like a fish swimming through the sea, passing through each trembling heart!

    One after another, the talented descendants of the Three Immortals felt a chill in their backs, looked down, and saw blood spurting from their chests.

    "Dad, Mom..."

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>One by one, young and proud lives fell to the ground, limbs twitching.

    "Run! Run for it!" Tian Yuxue screamed heartbreakingly, turning to flee for her life.

    With a thunderous boom, a massive violet chessboard emerged, sealing off the entire area like an array, causing the disciples of the Pathseeker Society who collided with it to have their heads burst open on the spot.

    <em>CRASH! CRASH! CRASH! </em>Hundreds of ck and white chess pieces plummeted down, leaving over 100 people with fractured skulls and broken spines.

    "Stop running. Pose nicely, will you? Killing you is as easy as ughtering chickens," the youth''s voice was like that of the Grim Reaper.

    "You!" Tian Yuxue, clutching a burning snow jade spear, trembled as she stood at the doorway, blocked by a chessboard barrier.

    Her legs shook violently as she turned back, only to see a white shadow weaving through the crowd, holding a violet dragon umbre in one hand and a three-foot azure de in the other, strolling amidst the blood and corpses as if on a spring outing.

    With a sweep of his sword, a familiar head flew into the air! His umbre wasn''t meant forbat but to block the blood from staining his white clothes.

    This scene was too suave, too fantastical, and too bloody.

    The disciples of the Pathseeker Society, who had grown up with Tian Yuxue, scrambled and screamed in terror, so frightened they lost control of their dders and bowels.

    The excitement they had felt when dividing the money was now matched by their misery!

    "So, you so-called descendants of the Three Immortals, capable only of dirty deeds, lip service, and deceiving people. When ites down to fighting, not one of you has the courage." Yun Xiao''sughter was their nightmare.

    "Don''t kill me, ah..." Someone knelt down, about to kowtow, but was flung away before they could. Not allowed to kowtow, because they couldn''t!

    "Stop killing..." Tian Yuxue, tears streaming down her face in horror, knelt down amidst the corpses, her heart pounding wildly.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>With a sweep of his sword, Yun Xiao sent the heads of thest few who had made it to the door flying, crashing against the wall, rolling to Tian Yuxue''s feet.

    "Ahhh!" Tian Yuxue jumped up, crying out in agony.

    "Why do you have to be so cruel..." she crashed against the chessboard barrier, crying out in despair.

    "Cruel?" Yun Xiao shook his head, "I went out shopping today, and everywhere people were saying that I had ughtered all the disciples of the Pathseeker Society. I couldn''t let myself be wrongly used, could I?"

    "ughtered all..." Tian Yuxue trembled and knelt down. Everywhere she looked, familiar headsy scattered. Indeed, the brothers and sisters she used to y with were all gone, leaving only herself.

    "Do you know why I spared you the first time?" Yun Xiao approached her, asking calmly.

    "No, I don''t know..." Tian Yuxue''s voice trembled, her soul seemingly frightened away.

    "Among all the people in the Pathseeker Society, you were the only one who ever spoke up for me. I''ve always wanted to be a merciful person, trying to kill fewer despicable beings, but I gradually realized I just can''t do it," Yun Xiao said.

    "So, so what now..." Tian Yuxue cried.

    "In front of me, no one gets a second chance. Make the most of your time to be reborn!"

    With a sweep of his sword, her head flew off as well.

    <em>THUD! </em>As Tian Yuxuey soft on the ground, Yun Xiao, holding his umbre and wielding his sword, turned back.

    In this blood-stained hall, only one person remained. Huddled in a corner, Tang Wenqian trembled. She wanted to run too, but a fierce beast with ck scales was eyeing her beside her!

    "Yun Xiao, it''s a-a misunderstanding..." Tang Wenqian''s face was pale, shrinking into the corner, her slender legs shaking uncontrobly.

    "No misunderstanding. Today, you called me poor, told me to get lost, and in the end, even reminded me to kill you and loot the Jade Immortal Tower. I remember it all... no overnight grudges, right?" Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    His smile was just like Manager Tang''s, all surface, no warmth. He was just that vengeful.

    "I was wrong, I am guilty, we have no grudges, please spare me!" Tang Wenqian knelt with a thump, tears streaming down.

    "Don''t worry, you won''t die," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

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    Hearing this, Tang Wenqian felt as if her body had gone limp, hot tears and cold sweat breaking out simultaneously. "Th-thank you..."

    "Don''t mention it, after all, whether I can go from a pauper to a rich man all depends on you now," Yun Xiao continued with a smile.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 433: My Life Belongs to Immortal Yun!

    Chapter 433: My Life Belongs to Immortal Yun!

    "A rich man?" Tang Wenqian''s eyes trembled, and she shook her head. "Here are hundreds of millions of Mid Immortal Jades, enough for you to be rolling in wealth."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "These are the hard-earned savings of the academy''s disciples. I don''t want them," Yun Xiao said, collecting the other Bags of Holding. Then, raising an eyebrow at Tang Wenqian, he whispered, "What I want is the money of you bloodsuckingndlords."

    "Do you intend to take me hostage and exchange me for Immortal Jades at the Jade Immortal Tower? Such a n is too naive; it won''t work at all!" Tang Wenqian, tears welling in her eyes, was locked in a corner.

    Her beautiful eyes swept over the corpses with eyes wide open in death, and her legs trembled even more,pletely losing herposure.

    Yun Xiao, smiling, stood in front of her without answering her question.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>He suddenly reached out, grabbed Tang Wenqian''s snow-white neck, and pinned her against the wall.

    "Ugh..." Tang Wenqian struggled in fear, drenched in sweat, her neckline forming a deep abyss, and her face filled with terror, struggling to breathe.

    What she saw was the nine-headed violet dragon on Yun Xiao''s forehead, coldly staring at her.

    That sense of fatality had already plunged her emotions into copse. She became somewhat hysterical, using all her strength to say, "Yun Xiao, you''ve killed all the disciples of the Pathseeker Society, all descendants of the Three Immortals. Do you really understand the severity of what you''ve done? You''ve created a catastrophe! Killing Qin Ziyue is one thing, but wiping out all the descendants of the Three Immortals is apletely different matter..."

    "What will happen?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "The Three Immortals entrusted their offspring to the Primordial Academy for nurturing, and now they''re all dead by your hand, someone protected by Dean Yu! What do you think will happen? It''s a huge mess!" Tang Wenqian was still in a daze, her mind nk. Now realizing this, she broke out in a cold sweat.

    "Who knows it was me?" Yun Xiao asked again with a smile.

    "You have the Blood Bat Curse on you, and the Temple Head knows you came to the Primordial Academy. She might already be on her way... You can''t escape..." Tang Wenqian said with a trembling voice.

    "Blood Bat Curse? Do I?" Yun Xiao released one hand, showing Tang Wenqian his clean palm.

    "Huh?" Tang Wenqian was stunned.

    "The Temple Head will tell everyone that I haven''t left the Divine Dawn Pavilion tonight. So, who could it be?" Yun Xiao said, grabbing Tang Wenqian''s neck with both hands again, his voice cold, "The only person who has been here is you."

    "No, that''s not right... I don''t have the ability or the motive..." Tang Wenqian was still gasping, shaking her head, and even began to muster her strength to resist Yun Xiao.

    "It doesn''t matter." After saying these three words, the nine-headed dragon on Yun Xiao''s forehead suddenly entered his head, and then a vertical eye opened.

    The Soulfire Eye form, empowered by over 300,000 Runes, unleashed a torrent of violet rays, pouring directly into Tang Wenqian''s eyes, mere inches away.

    "AGHHHH!" Her body violently trembled, convulsed, and spasmed, emitting painful cries, as her pale face suddenly flushed red. Her hands,cking strength, rested on Yun Xiao''s arms, her slender legs slowly gave way, and her delicate body slid down the wall until she was seated on the ground.

    Throughout this process, a continuous stream of violet, dragon-shaped torrents flowed from Yun Xiao''s vertical eye into Tang Wenqian''s brain!

    Until half an hourter, her sclera was dyed violet by Yun Xiao, indicating her brain had been extensively altered by the Prison Warden Sigil.

    "Do only the Three Immortals have the right to <em>bewitch</em> the masses with the All-Life Devouring Gu? I can devour your All-Life Devouring Gu and take over your followers..." Yun Xiao''s eyes swirled with violet light as he murmured to himself.

    Tang Wenqian''s mind had been upied by the All-Life Devouring Gu, but now, it was gone.

    <em>BANG! </em>Yun Xiao released her; she whimpered, copsing to the ground, foaming at the mouth, her eyes vacant for a long time.

    "Damn, she had a Genesis Spirit specialized in mental resistance. Full control is still quite difficult," Yun Xiao remarked.

    This task felt more exhausting than battling Zhao Xuanran for an entire night.

    "Let''s just see how effective the Soulfire Eyes are¡­" Yun Xiao took a deep breath, looking down at Tang Wenqian.

    Tang Wenqian''s eyes gradually regained <em>rity</em>. She shook her head, struggling to prop up her delicate body and knelt before Yun Xiao, her eyes filled with devotion. She prostrated on the ground, lifting her waist and buttocks high, calling out with utter conviction, "Immortal Yun."

    "Lift your head." Yun Xiaomanded.

    Trembling, Tang Wenqian lifted her head, her eyes fixated on Yun Xiao with infatuation, like a moth drawn to mes.

    "Clean yourself up, go to your Jade Immortal Tower," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Yes." Tang Wenqian''s dress was stained with too much blood. Right in front of Yun Xiao, she removed her dirty clothes and changed into a new set.

    Throughout, she looked at Yun Xiao with an infatuated smile hanging on her lips. It was as if at this moment, she was blissfully happy, fulfilling the meaning of her life.

    Yun Xiao said no more. He walked among the hundreds of corpses, absorbing all their Seeds of Creation, Life Sigils, Sword Souls, and taking all the Bags of Holding.

    They were numerous and all were favored sons of heaven, their collective wealth amounting to ten times that of Dharma Crown Qin.

    Excluding the membership fee, Yun Xiao also had hundreds of millions of Mid Immortal Jades. Obtaining these treasures did not excite him¡­ because he wanted more.

    "500,000yers of Sword Aura, 530,000 Runes," Yun Xiao said to himself, barely satisfied.

    The Sword Aura and Life Sigils of these Pathseeker Society members were generally inferior to his own, so he had to make up for it with quantity.

    After cleaning up the hunting ground, Yun Xiao left without a word.

    Tang Wenqian had tidied up her appearance, her face smiling, posture impable, as she pushed open the main door and stepped out.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    An hourter, Tang Wenqian appeared on the 29th floor of the Jade Immortal Tower.

    "Order the stewards toe up." Tang Wenqian was as proud and astute as ever.

    She was the eldest daughter of the owner of the Jade Immortal Tower and its heir, her strength and talent quite remarkable, but she was most famous for her business acumen.

    The Jade Immortal Tower''s profits had increased in the past few years, reportedly thanks to her.

    She had established awork of sisterhood among the descendants of the Three Immortals to boost marketing, capturing the female demographic, which in turn captured their admirers, forming a positive cycle.

    Now, the Jade Immortal Tower was especially popr among the youth of the Three Great Ruins, who were generally affluent.

    Because of this, despite her young age, her position in the Jade Immortal Tower was very high, controlling its marketing power, and she was respected by many.

    "Young miss!" Over thirty stewards neatly presented themselves before Tang Wenqian.

    Tang Wenqian nced at them and said, "I n to change theyout logic of the products in the VIP area and have decided to close the VIP area at midnight. No more guests should be brought up after that."

    "Hm?" The stewards were slightly taken aback.

    An elder with a white beard asked, "Miss, closing it might require consulting the owner, right?"

    "No need. My father has gone to the Sky Source Ruins for the preparations of Three Immortals Day." Tang Wenqian nced at the elder who spoke. "Cut the chatter. I n to distribute more VIP cards to the highly esteemed descendants of the Three Immortals to increase the VIP area''s poprity. Three Immortals Day is a good opportunity and reason. Will youpensate if time is wasted?"

    "The subordinate dares not," the elder hurriedly lowered his head.

    "I''m going to continue working on my n. Don''t disturb me," Tang Wenqian said, giving them a re before waving her hand dismissively. "Dismissed!"

    "Yes!" The stewards nodded and left in an orderly manner. Each was responsible for one floor, and the VIP area was directly managed by Tang Wenqian herself, who had the authority to bring people up.

    After giving her instructions, Tang Wenqian turned and ascended the spiral staircase to the 30th floor with the demeanor of a sharp and efficient businesswoman.

    Above the 30th floor, all lights were off, plunging the area into darkness.

    Only the glow of numerous magic treasures and rare items shimmered in the dark.

    "Immortal Yun." After ascending the stairs, Tang Wenqian, shedding her previous arrogance, prostrated on the ground and crawled towards a white figure.

    "Where''s that Giant Bag of Holding you mentioned that can take away all the treasures in the VIP area?" Yun Xiao extended his hand.

    "Here it is." Tang Wenqian produced a ck Bag of Holding covered in inscriptions from her bosom and handed it to Yun Xiao with both hands.

    "Not bad, truly spacious." After receiving it, Yun Xiao examined the space inside, feeling it could contain tenrge mountains.

    He then turned his gaze to the 30 floors of the Jade Immortal Tower. Before himy a floor that was also a treasury rich enough to rival nations. Although the Jade Immortal Tower primarily dealt in magic treasures and precious ores, it also contained all sorts of treasures like pills, talismans, and primeval pearls.

    Aheady an endless treasury! Yun Xiao could hardly imagine how much wealth was inside.

    "Allying with the Three Immortals means safety, such wealth disyed here with suchx security, yet no one dares to rob it," Yun Xiao mused.

    "I''m going to feast!!" Unable to restrain himself any longer, Red Moon howled and, controlling the small ck beast''s body, charged out.

    "Take it easy, don''t end up with kidney stones." Yun Xiao chuckled. After speaking, he turned to Tang Wenqian, who continued to prostrate, and asked, "Do you have any Cmity Bones?"

    "Reporting to Immortal Yun, yes, on the highest 33rd floor," Tang Wenqian respectfully replied.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao''s eyes brightened, then he asked, "What about Sword Hearts?"

    "Yes! Also on the 33rd floor, as part of private transactions, in the private section," Tang Wenqian said.

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao took a deep breath and joyfully said, "This is fantastic, you''re truly my lucky star. Why didn''t someone like you appear earlier?"

    "My life belongs to Immortal Yun," Tang Wenqian lifted her head, her eyes filled with adoration.

    "Very well." Yun Xiao paused for a moment, "Guard the entrance, don''t let anyonee up."

    After saying this, he opened the Giant Bag of Holding, stretching it open to a diameter of 30 feet.

    <em>WOOOOM! </em>Yun Xiao didn''t even look at what he was holding, and was just stuffing everything inside.

    "Man, are you even throwing the counters in there?" Blue Star eximed.

 Chapter 434: Pauper to Rich Man!

    Chapter 434: Pauper to Rich Man!

    "This saves time," Yun Xiao said, his hands never stopping. Treasures of the Yin grade, metals and ores, tons after tons were thrown inside the Giant Bag of Holding. Vases along the way, decorations, counters, stools, chairs, tea tables, and wine utensils were all not spared.

    Yun Xiao directly conjured dozens of thunderous giant arms, as if his body were covered in tentacles, with no time to see what he was grabbing. Emptying the ce was all that mattered.

    During the day, Tang Wenqian had maliciously raised prices, mocking him as a pauper. Now, he entered the VIP area, bing the biggest VIP in history.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Rows of thunderous giant arms, sweeping across with the Giant Bag of Holding.

    "We''re rich, filthy rich. So much money..." Whether it was stones or treasures, Red Moon''s eyes sparkled. He didn''t care whether he could digest them or not, directly throwing them into his mouth, swallowing them with a gulp, acting like a recycling station.

    "Stop eating, you''ll clog your intestines!" Blue Star cried in frustration.

    "No worries, I''ll just stuff a bit more inside, and it''ll clear right up!" Red Moon eximed excitedly.

    As they swept through, the entire vast 30th floor was quickly emptied, almost to the point of pulling off the sealed curtains.

    Tang Wenqian had turned off all the security formations. Despite Yun Xiao''smotion, the 29 floors below continued to operate normally without a hint of noise reaching them.

    Shey sprawled at the staircase, her face wearing a fascinated smile, watching Yun Xiao empty everything.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

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    "Next floor." After clearing the 30th floor, Yun Xiao did not rest. Next, the 31st floor, 32nd floor, and then the highest, 33rd floor.

    The 33rd floor was reserved for VIPs among VIPs!

    Its area wasn''trge, mostlyprising tea and wine rooms, where the owner of the Jade Immortal Tower would personally entertain guests.

    Guests who coulde here held extremely high status in the Three Great Ruins, and even Celestial Officers or Manor Masters might not qualify toe up.

    And now, Yun Xiao was here. He moved confidently, regardless of the treasure, even treasures of the Yang grade like the Binding God Cord were measured in tons.

    "The owner of this tower could never have dreamed, even as a loyal servant to the Three Immortals, that someone would dare to brainwash his daughter and raid his stronghold."

    With Tang Wenqian leading the way, with the formations turned off, there was absolutely no obstacle.

    "Cmity Bones..." Yun Xiao entered a private area, where he saw dozens of jade boxesid out, each containing a Cmity Bone.

    Beside them, stone tablets detailed the types and origins of these bones, often from Yin Immortal Great Demons.

    "So this is how lucrative being apdog is. Whose hard-earned wealth was this scavenged from?" Yun Xiao didn''t hesitate to rob everything. In one swift move, all the Cmity Bones were swept into his Giant Bag of Holding.

    Then, he stepped into thest secret chamber. This chamber was the most concealed, housing hundreds of ck boxes.

    Unlike the Cmity Bones, these boxes bore no names and were heavily disguised, clearly meant to remain unseen.

    Yun Xiao opened the first box. As expected, insidey a Sword Heart! "To be the final glimmer of Sword Cultivators, meant to secure a true path of survival for future generations, rather than lying forever in these dark, sunless boxes."

    Yun Xiao closed the ck box, then turned to the other hundreds. Without looking, he knew these were all top-tier Sword Hearts. If they weren''t exceptional, they wouldn''t be ced in this most hidden spot.

    "Ancient predecessors, I, Yun Xiao, wish to borrow thest spark of your lives to create a peaceful world!

    "Of course, if you''re also descendants of the Three Immortals, ignore what I just said.

    "You deserve to have your Sword Hearts used by me against your descendants."

    While speaking, Yun Xiao packed all the ck boxes into the Giant Bag of Holding.

    "All done. That was exhausting, but oh so satisfying!" Yun Xiao secured the immensely heavy Giant Bag of Holding and looked around.

    This VIP area was nowpletely empty, except for the curtains and pirs fluttering around. He had no idea how many treasures he had taken. Not that he counted! He hadn''t even taken a close look at most of them.

    One thing was for sure. He had made a fortune!

    "If the Three Immortals take their final step, the entire Primordial Ruins will be doomed. How could theirckeys escape involvement? So, this isn''t robbery; it''s collecting dues for a new world!" After saying this, Yun Xiao returned to Tang Wenqian''s side.

    "Immortal Yun!" Tang Wenqian continued to kneel, still lost in adoration.

    "I''ve taken away the wealth of generations of your family, yet you remain grateful to me, regarding me as a sage." Yun Xiao sighed lightly, "So, misleading others truly feels exhrating. No wonder the Three Immortals are keen on this path."

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    Beings are like kindling, burning themselves to illuminate the Three Immortals, and taking pride in it. Wasn''t Tang Wenqian just like that?

    "Unfortunately, you''ve seen too much and carry clues on you. You cannot live." Yun Xiao looked at Tang Wenqian.

    "To die for Immortal Yun is my honor for a hundred lifetimes." Tang Wenqian said with immense joy.

    "Fine." Yun Xiao pushed aside the curtain, looking down at the bustling night market below.

    Under the hidden moon''s silver light, the street market of the Primordial Ruins was teeming with people, each face adorned with a silver smile.

    Such was the <em>prosperity</em> of the age.

    Yet, the spots covered with white cloth during the day, where the children''s mutted bodies had been, were now gone, the floors scrubbed clean. The passersby on those streets cared not that they trod upon the site of others'' suffering and despair.

    Theyughed, rejoiced, celebrated, lighting up thenterns, celebrating the impending birth of the Three Immortals.

    Yun Xiao silently observed this scene. "Life is but a dream, fireworks fade, and all returns to dust."

    The silver moonlight shone on his face, casting ayer of silver frost.

    After a long while, he came back to himself, looking at Tang Wenqian on the ground, her eyes still shining with the light of a moth drawn to me.

    He crouched down, cupping Tang Wenqian''s face, and said, "Go down, in front of the Jade Immortal Tower, carve the words <em>Devil Ark</em> with your own blood, then end your life."

    Tang Wenqian spread her arms wide, deeply prostrating, her eyes brimming with fervor. "Thank you, Immortal Yun, for granting me eternal blessings."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Late at night, a middle-aged man in ck appeared at the entrance of the Pathseeker Pce.

    "Dharma Crown He!" Not far from the entrance, there was a pavilion, where an elder was diligently practicing his Ascension Technique.

    Upon noticing the man in ck, he quickly ended his practice and jogged over, asking with a smile, "What brings you to Pathseeker Pce sote at night? Do you have any instructions?"

    "Is Tian Yuxue inside?" The middle-aged man in ck looked through the courtyard door towards the depths, where the farthest hall was pitch dark.

    "Yes, everyone is here! Miss Tang from the Jade Immortal Tower is also here. They are probably having fun!" The elderly gatekeeper nodded with a chuckle, "I''ll go in and announce your arrival."

    "No need." The man in ck waved his hand and then stepped inside.

    Soon, he reached the entrance.

    "Yuxue, tomorrow you will take everyone to the Mystic Zenith Temple, as the Temple Head wishes to appoint a new president," the man in ck called into the interior.

    However, there was no response. He sniffed the air.

    "The smell of blood?" His brows suddenly furrowed. He clearly saw blood flowing out from under the door!

    "Something''s wrong!" The man in ck violently pushed open the door.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The door swung open, and inside, the air was thick with the smell of blood.

    Dharma Crown He''s eyes narrowed as he took in the blood-drenched scene.

    "No!" He was so shocked that he fell to the ground, his face pale and his heart trembling in fear!

    Following his gaze, in the hall, there were the heads of 100 young people. Their eyes were wide with terror, dead with unseeing gazes.

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    These heads were arranged into a character with an immense evil aura.

    "Devil!!!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 435: Red Herring

    Chapter 435: Red Herring

    A quarter of an hourter, the Pathseeker Pce was already surrounded by the enforcers from the Mystic Zenith Temple, tight as a drum.

    "The Temple Head has arrived!"

    A heavy atmosphere parted the crowd, and amidst the escort of numerous Dharma Crowns, a woman in a bright red robe approached the blood-stained hall.

    Before this, no one dared to disturb the scene! Her dark red eyes swept over, strikingly encountering the <em>Devil</em> character made from the heads of disciples of the Pathseeker Society.

    Among them, Tian Yuxue formed the top dot of the character for <em>Devil</em>. Each one of them died in extreme fear and despair, their eyes wide open in agony.

    Such a scene was a brutal blow to everyone who arrived. What was most frightening was that these were all descendants of the Three Immortals, and most of them were of direct lineage!

    Even if they did not study in the Primordial Academy, they were influential and prestigious nobles outside. Each was a chosen child of heaven!

    For the enforcers of the Mystic Zenith Temple, it was as if their <em>reserve army</em> had been wiped out in one fell swoop!

    "This is the most malevolent incident since the arrival of the Three Immortals in the Primordial Ruins!"

    Every enforcer of the Mystic Zenith Temple was clear in their hearts that this atrocity was enough to shock the entire Primordial Ruins!

    And as one of the responsible figures, beneath that cloak, the eyes of the red-robed woman were already blood-red, her presence as chilling as a sea of blood, her aura terrifyingly bloody.

    "Devil? A resurgence from the ashes?" Her lips moved silently, muttering this word.

    "Temple Head..." As the first discoverer, Dharma Crown He knelt deeply, his son and daughter also among the in.

    He sorrowfully said, "The Blood Devil Ark copses, their devil blood forms a sea, in this world, apart from the mixed blood, where exists a True Devil? We must be vignt of someone using the name of the devils tomit evil deeds!"

    "Who do you think the murderer is?" The red-robed woman looked down at him.

    "Yun Xiao!" Dharma Crown He, with blood-red eyes, looked up resolutely. "He had major conflicts with the children, and his methods are brutal, without any scruples. Given his unknown strength, he definitely could have done this."

    At that moment, all eyes turned to the red-robed woman.

    "It''s definitely him! We can''t worry about the five-day trial period anymore, right?"

    "We urgently need to capture him immediately!"

    The other Dharma Crowns, one after another, expressed simr thoughts.

    The Temple Head fell silent.

    "Temple Head, could it be?" Dharma Crown He stared at her in disbelief.

    "I''ve been tracking him constantly with the Blood Bat Curse, and he has not left Divine Dawn Pavilion tonight," Dean Yu said.

    "Not him?" Dharma Crown He found it hard to believe.

    "Is it possible that someone could break the Blood Bat Curse?" another Dharma Crown dared to ask.

    "It''s possible, but if it were broken, the Blood Bat Curse would vanish, not remain at the Divine Dawn Pavilion," the Temple Head said, her gaze cold.

    Hearing this, the crowd furrowed their brows deeply.

    "Could it really be a devil?" someone murmured.

    "There''s no need to jump to conclusions. Look for clues." the Temple Head ordered. "Seal off the Pathseeker Pce, and search for any leads."

    "Yes!"

    A group of people started to enter the Pathseeker Pce.

    Seeing the massacre up close twisted their spirits even more.

    "We, the descendants of the Three Immortals and enforcers of the Primordial Ruins, have never faced such a tragedy in our history..."

    Anger was no longer sufficient to describe their emotions.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Temple Head." Dharma Crown He stood behind the red-robed woman, his demeanor calmed, and seriously said, "It seems that the only clue left is Tang Wenqian. She had been here, but her body is not among the dead."

    "You take charge and lead a team to the Jade Immortal Tower to find her," the red-robed woman instructed.

    "Yes!" Dharma Crown He nodded and hurried off, but in less than a quarter of an hour, he returned, his expression even more puzzled than when he left.

    "Why have you returned so soon?" the red-robed woman standing above, looked down at him with her hands behind her back.

    "The trail has gone cold!" Dharma Crown He''s voice trembled.

    "What do you mean?" The red-robed woman''s dark red eyes narrowed.

    "News just came from outside, Tang Wenqianmitted suicide in front of the Jade Immortal Tower, shing her own throat. Before dying, she used her blood to inscribe the words <em>Devil Ark</em> on the ground!" Dharma Crown He said through gritted teeth.

    "Suicide?" The red-robed woman''s expression turned cold, "Are you sure it was suicide? That all her actions were voluntary?"

    "Yes! Thousands witnessed it!" Dharma Crown He said, finding it hard to believe himself.

    The red-robed woman took a deep breath, "It sounds indeed like the work of a devilish soul control."

    "Temple Head, there''s something even more detestable!" Dharma Crown He said.

    "Speak." The red-robed woman''s brows furrowed deeply.

    "The highest four floors of the VIP area in the Jade Immortal Tower werepletely emptied. ording to the full staff of the Jade Immortal Tower, Tang Wenqian herself had closed off the VIP area to facilitate the theft. They all said that at the time, Tang Wenqian showed no signs of abnormality..." Dharma Crown He shook his head.

    Hearing this, the brows of the Dharma Crowns present furrowed even deeper.

    "All the goods from the VIP area of the Jade Immortal Tower? That''s indeed a lot of treasures."

    "Nearly half their foundation was looted away."

    "Is this the ultimate goal of the murderer? Are the deaths of these children and Tang Wenqian warnings or intimidations from the devil?"

    The Dharma Crowns were puzzled, their expressions stern.

    "Considering both the Jade Immortal Tower and Pathseeker Pce, these two major cases have too great an impact, it''s unlikely that Yun Xiao could do this on his own..."

    To these Dharma Crowns, what Yun Xiao had done so far was merely minor mischief, merely a minor evil.

    But the case of the Jade Immortal Tower and Pathseeker Pce was a solemn challenge to the entire Primordial Ruins, and even a humiliation to the Three True Immortals!

    It wasn''t something on the same level at all!

    Dharma Crown He furrowed his brows deeply and said, "I still think that the devil is likely a decoy. Apart from the devil, the demons of the Forgotten Demon Sea could be possible, but they are not adept at using such strategies. So, the only possibility left, with the motive to do so, is..."

    "Are you suggesting Dean Yu and her followers? They''re nning all this, with Yun Xiao as one of their pawns?" the red-robed woman asked with raised eyebrows.

    "Though, given the current situation, for Dean Yu to dare to do this is purely a suicidal act, she doesn''t have the guts. But... suspicion can be reserved," Dharma Crown He seriously said.

    "Makes sense." The red-robed woman gave a cold smile, "The true devil, or, the fake devils like Yu Nichang and her group, one of them... Regardless of who it is, they''re challenging us, seeking their own death."

    "What do you wish to do, Temple Head?" the crowd asked.

    "The case is too significant for me to handle alone; I can only start by seeking clues and points of suspicion while notifying the Three Great Ruins. They will decide whether to report this to the Three Immortals," the red-robed woman stated.

    Just as her words fell, someone arrived from outside. It was a dignified and elegant woman in a white dress, her eyes full of blood vessels, slightly unstable on her feet. It was the Celestial Official, Tian Yn.

    "Mystic Zenith Temple Head, you are summoned by the Sky Source Ruins! Please proceed immediately," Tian Yn said with a trembling voice.

    "Understood." The red-robed woman nced at Tian Yn and said softly, "My condolences."

    Tian Yn didn''t respond but walked past her with heavy steps. Then, she saw her daughter, Tian Yuxue.

    As the dot of the <em>devil</em> character, Tian Yuxue was too conspicuous, hardly requiring any search.

    With a thud, Tian Yn copsed to the ground, screaming in agony. Her cries were so heart-wrenching that they moved the listeners to tears.

    "Sigh." The red-robed woman turned around to leave.

    "You must find the murderer and exterminate their family for generations!" Tian Yn red.

    "Don''t worry." The red-robed woman nced back at her, "This is the Primordial Ruins! Since we''ve been here, we''ve never been at a disadvantage."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In front of the Jade Immortal Tower, a dazzling woman in a crimson dress pierced her own heart, lying in the middle of the street. As she died, she still smiled at the sky, her expression incredibly satisfied.

    To her left and right were words formed from fresh blood, <em>Devil</em> on the left and <em>Ark</em> on the right. Shey in the middle of the <em>Devil Ark</em>, her dress spread out like a flower from hell.

    More and more people gathered around her! From a few hundred people at the start to thousands, and now tens of thousands!

    Tens of thousands of people crowded in the dead of night, indicating the sensational impact.

    "The VIP area of the Jade Immortal Tower has been emptied, leaving only the curtains..."

    "Have you heard? The disciples of the Pathseeker Society of the Primordial Academy were killed, their heads piled into the shape of the character <em>Devil</em>!"

    Devil and Devil Ark. These two sites, linked by this event, now shook the entire Primordial Ruins.

    It was said that no one dared to move the body of the young mistress of the Jade Immortal Tower, and many were filled with shock,ing out to see the spectacle.

    "Could it have been Yun Xiao, that murderous fiend?"

    This was everyone''s first thought.

    "Just kill him already, a thousand cuts and a thousand slices!"

    "It must be that beast''s doing; if wrong, my brain''s grown in vain."

    The public, witnessing this horrifying scene, was filled with righteous indignation.

    Among the crowd, a young man with silver eyes, Yuan Fu, said to his father, Yuan Zhantian, "More and more people are gathering. It''s not suitable for our identities to be exposed, shall we go?"

    Yuan Zhantian pressed his lips together, took onest deep look at Tang Wenqian, and nodded. "Let''s go!"

    Father and son, wearing dark cloaks, squeezed through the crowd and quietly slipped into the darkness to leave.

    "Dad, themon folks all think it''s Yun Xiao. What do you think?" Yuan Fu asked in a low voice.

    "They''re all fools. If Yun Xiao could do this by himself, I''d pee with my mouth," Yuan Zhantian said.

    "So you mean, it''s either a real devil, or the remnants of the former dynasty of the Primordial Academy have gone mad?" Yuan Fu said through clenched teeth.

    "I''m inclined to thetter, but I just heard that Dean Yu has already gone to the Sky Source Ruins to prove her innocence," Yuan Zhantian said, pursing his lips.

    "Could it really be a devil? Weren''t they exterminated by the Martial Emperor n? Are there still remnants?" Yuan Fu said incredulously.

    "Don''t jump to conclusions yet. Keep all possibilities open. This matter is too significant. If we don''t find the real culprit, it''ll be a disgrace for us, the descendants of the Three Immortals... Let''s wait for the Three Great Ruins to investigate!" Yuan Zhantian said.

    "Three Immortals Day ising up soon, and with the Nian causing chaos in the Nine Hells, all sorts of demons and heretical paths are emerging," Yuan Fu said with a coldugh.

    "Yes, and I just heard that those demons from the Forgotten Demon Sea are supposedly nning to <em>rescue</em> the Nian. Rescue my foot! The Nian hasn''t turned into a demon. If they really rescue it, it might as well go straight to the Forgotten Demon Sea for a seafood feast." Yuan Zhantian chuckled.

    "After so many years, the brains of those demons are still filled with seawater," Yuan Fu sneered.

    As they talked, they had already returned to their base. Their base was located near the Jade Immortal Tower. As shadow agents of the Three Immortals who shunned the light, they were very low-key in theirings and goings, naturally keeping their base unlit, shrouded in darkness.

 Chapter 436: Ill Take You Across the Path of Immortality

    Chapter 436: I''ll Take You Across the Path of Immortality

    In the dimness, father and son returned to a dark room.

    "Dad..." In the corner, a limbless young man with golden eyes struggled to rise.

    Seeing his eldest son in such a dire state, Yuan Zhantian''s eyes flickered with a hint of gloom.

    Yuan Fu was very sensible and helped Yuan Wu to his feet.

    "It''s so noisy outside, has something happened?" Yuan Wu asked.

    "Something big has happened." Yuan Fu then recounted the series of events to his brother.

    "..." Hearing this, Yuan Wu frowned deeply.

    "Brother, are you thinking this was Yun Xiao? He went to the Jade Immortal Tower today, and his path ovepped with those who died." Yuan Fu whispered.

    "This kid was nothing special in the Nine Hells; others haven''t seen what he did there, but our second brother and I saw everything clearly!"

    Yuan Wu looked up at Yuan Zhantian, "Dad, I suggest you go back to the Sky Source Ruins and warn everyone. If there are no clues, we must investigate the Nine Hells thoroughly, find everyone rted to him, and specifically investigate whether he has the ability to control souls!"

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    "The Three Immortals forbid anyone from entering the Nine Hells," Yuan Zhantian said.

    "What are we talking about rules for at a time like this? You just need to report back to the Sky Source Ruins. Whether or not they investigate is their business!" Yuan Wu said passionately.

    He spoke so vehemently that the newly grown half of his tender tongue began to bleed, causing him pain that made him grimace. Thinking of Yun Xiao, his heart was filled with a surge of hatred, and his eyes turned blood red!

    "Brother, you''re just overestimating him because you hate him too much," Yuan Fu said weakly.

    "Shut up," Yuan Wu red at his brother with angry eyes.

    "Stop arguing." Yuan Zhantian looked at Yuan Wu; seeing his son in such pain, as a father, his heart was also bleeding. So, he said, "I''ll go back to the Sky Source Ruins right away."

    <em>KNOCK! KNOCK! </em>Just as he finished speaking, someone knocked on the door.

    The rules of the Three Immortals'' shadow agents were to act quietly and unobtrusively, so knocking without shouting or calling out was actually quite normal.

    "Come in," Yuan Zhantian said casually.

    <em>CREAK! </em>In the dead of night, the door to the dark room opened, and a white figure walked in, then turned around to close the door.

    "Who is it?" Yuan Fu looked over impatiently.

    "I heard someone calling my name." After closing the door, Yun Xiao turned around, a smile on his face as he looked at the father and his two sons.

    "Damn!" Yuan Wu shivered, and though he had no limbs, he almost jumped out of bed.

    "Hm?" Yuan Fu thought he had seen wrong and rubbed his eyes.

    Yuan Zhantian''s pupils contracted, his face creased with a mix of murderous intent and confusion in his eyes.

    The three of them exchanged looks!

    Yuan Zhantian signaled them not to act rashly.

    In the dead silence, Yun Xiao stepped forward to face them. To the unknowing, they might seem like old friends.

    "Yuan Wu, I heard you talking just now outside," Yun Xiao said, looking at him coldly.

    "So what if I did?" Yuan Wu said, ncing at his father, a Martial Cultivator who could, at such close range, capture Yun Xiao in an instant.

    "Yuan Zhantian, you''re quite bold," Yun Xiao then red at Yuan Zhantian and coldly said, "Didn''t I warn you not to heal him? And yet you helped him grow his tongue back?"

    Yuan Zhantian stared intently at Yun Xiao with his dark golden eyes, not answering Yun Xiao''s question but instead asking in a deep voice, "You followed us here? Why?"

    While speaking, Yuan Zhantian asionally nced outside, naturally suspecting Yun Xiao had many people with him, which was why he dared not make any rash moves.

    "Tang Wenqianmitted suicide, and you three descendants of the Three Immortals were the quickest to appear at the base of the Jade Immortal Tower, indicating you were stationed nearby," Yun Xiao said in a ghostly voice.

    "So what?" Underneath his sleeve, Yuan Zhantian clenched his fists, his body angled to shield his two sons.

    "The day I entered the Jade Immortal Tower, someone quickly killed a few children and pinned it on me. Since this is your territory, it must have been you, right?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Hehehehe..." Yuan Zhantian''s fierce face let out a coldugh, saying, "You''ve prepared a little Projection Art? nning to clear your name? Sorry, you''vee to the wrong ce. Everyone in the Primordial Ruins saw it; you killed the children! You better take your people and leave."

    Yun Xiaoughed too. When he asked the question, he already had his answer in mind and didn''t need Yuan Zhantian to respond.

    "You worry too much; there are none of my people outside," Yun Xiao said.

    "Hehehehe." The three of them, father and sons, shrugged andughed together.

    Who was he kidding? No one around, and yet Yun Xiao dared to talk to an elder with such an attitude, up close to their face?

    "Though no one''s here, I did bring something for you." As he spoke, Yun Xiao pulled out a ck Giant Bag of Holding from his chest, a bag that was clearly out of the ordinary.

    The father and his sons didn''t dare to move rashly, staring intently at Yun Xiao.

    Unperturbed, Yun Xiao reached into the Bag of Holding, rummaging as if searching for something.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>He pulled out a bone emanating immense demonic energy.

    "A Cmity Bone?" The eyes of the father and sons trembled, their breathing grew heavy.

    "Sorry, got the wrong item; I have too many things." Yun Xiao said, continuing to frown as he searched in the Bag of Holding, pulling out a divine treasure of immense majesty.

    "The Eastern Divinity Mirror!" The eyes of Yuan Zhantian and his sons reddened. How could this young man possess such treasures!

    "Dad, that Eastern Divinity Mirror even has its packaging intact, with the price tag..." Yuan Fu whispered to his father with a frown.

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    "Too many treasures, grabbed the wrong one again." Yun Xiao shook his head with a wry smile. He stuffed the Eastern Divinity Mirror back in, rummaged again, and then pulled out a handful of golden nuggets.

    "Sunstone!" Yuan Wu eximed in shock.

    "Dad, that''s a material of the Yang grade..." Yuan Fu said with a trembling voice.

    "How embarrassing, wrong again." Yun Xiao put it back again, continuing to search while casting a deep look at the father and sons.

    Yuan Zhantian''s eyes suddenly widened, and he eximed, "These are treasures from the Jade Immortal Tower''s VIP area!"

    "How could they be in his hands?" Yuan Wu''s eyes went wide with disbelief.

    "Dad, that''s the Giant Bag of Holding from the Jade Immortal Tower..." Yuan Fu stepped back, his voice hoarse.

    The three of them looked at Yun Xiao, their hearts trembling.

    Yun Xiao, ignoring their inner turmoil, reached into the Bag of Holding again and pulled out a ck box, then smiled at Yuan Zhantian, saying, "Finally found it."

    Yun Xiao opened the ck box and grabbed something inside.

    What was it? The father and his two sons looked intently.

    "A Sword Heart?!" They were instantly shocked! Despite the shock, Yuan Zhantian managed to remain calm.

    The release of a Sword Heart required time, and even lineage. At such close range, why would he fear the Sword Heart?

    "This youngster is the mastermind behind tonight''s major case!" Yuan Zhantian was terrified upon this realization!

    In that moment of shock, he suddenly punched towards Yun Xiao''s face.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao extended his left hand, with inscriptions forming a nine-headed dragon vortex on his palm, suddenly absorbing Yuan Zhantian''s punch!

    "Sorry, I''m not the same person I was three days ago," Yun Xiao smiled. Three days ago, not to mention Yuan Zhantian, even Yuan Wu could have killed him with one punch!

    And now, he was taking a punch from Yuan Zhantian, in the Five Decays Realm, head-on!

    "Your palm doesn''t have the Blood Bat Curse?"

    In that moment of shock, Yuan Zhantian saw something even more unbelievable.

    "Heh." This time, it was Yun Xiao''s turn to sneer. As he sneered, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul had already devoured the Sword Heart, and a dark azure storm, along with 500,000yers of Sword Aura, erupted explosively.

    <em>STAB! </em>Yun Xiao caught Yuan Zhantian''s punch, and with his right hand, he thrust his sword, as fast as a sh of light and as fierce as a dragon!

    "Ugh¡­" Yuan Zhantian''s arm was equipped with a steel gauntlet treasure, which he used in a bid to grab Yun Xiao''s sword!

    The sword pierced through his palm, the dark azure storm instantly tearing open his flesh, the Sword Soul piercing through his arm, and prating Yuan Zhantian''s heart!

    "No!" In that moment, Yuan Zhantian finally understood. This youngster really had no one behind him! He hade alone to kill!

    The most terrifying realization was that all of these deeds were carried out by this man alone!

    "Too bad, you realized toote," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>Yuan Zhantian looked at him with eyes full of despair, then his entire being was devoured by the dark azure storm, turning into ash. Not even bones were left!

    "Dad!" Yuan Wu and Yuan Fu were utterly devastated!

    <em>PUFF! </em>Just as Yuan Fu was about to scream, a sword swept across his neck, silencing him abruptly.

    <em>THUD! </em>The head and body that hit the floor were incinerated separately.

    "Yun¡ª¡ª!"

    <em>PUFF! </em>Before Yuan Wu could finish his sentence, the tip of a three-foot-long sword pierced his mouth, piercing through his tongue again.

    "MRMPHH! AKGHH!!" Yuan Wu, biting down on the Sword Soul, widened his eyes in sheer misery and fear, with dark azure smoke emerging from the edges of his mouth, looking at Yun Xiao in terror.

    "I said no healing that tongue, so why did you speak out of turn again?" Yun Xiao looked at him with a smile.

    "MMM HRREE TRUU IMMRTAHLS WILL MMMAKE YUU SUHFER A TERRBBLE DEHTH!!!" Half of Yuan Wu''s face was devoured by the dark azure storm, unable to even scream, only his eyes showing his rage and despair.

    "Are you trying to say that the Three True Immortals will make me suffer a terrible death?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Yuan Wu, biting the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, nodded furiously.

    "Alright then." After saying this, Yun Xiao''s sword pierced through him.

    Yuan Wu died!

    However, in his final moments, Yun Xiao used a small talisman to capture his soul.

    "I once said I wanted you to watch everything I do in the Primordial Ruins with wide eyes. Now, even though you''re dead, it doesn''t matter. Your remnant soul can still follow me and continue watching!

    "This is just the intermission; the real climax is yet toe. You must watch closely, Yuan Wu."

    Yuan Wu''s remnant soul fell into deep despair, trembling continuously.

    "All four of you, father and sons, are despicable, wasting my Sword Heart!" Yun Xiao sneered coldly, cleared the scene of the ashes, and left.

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    All was silent. Returning to the courtyard, Yun Xiao saw a few blood-stained pieces of white cloth in the corner. He paused for a moment, then went forward to carefully wrap them up.

    He didn''t put pieces of cloth into the Bag of Holding but kept them close to his chest, right against his heart! Touching his chest, he whispered, "Let''s go, I''ll take you across the path of immortality."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughtsn/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 437: Yun Xiao Will Become the Eye of the Storm!

    Chapter 437: Yun Xiao Will Be the Eye of the Storm!

    In the central area of the Sky Source Ruins, there stood a temple-shaped golden pce. At the entrance, a stone pir bore the inscription <em>Heavenly Order Temple</em>.

    At this moment, within the Heavenly Order Temple, dark golden celestial mist swirled, creating an atmosphere of utmost solemnity. Looking around, there were over 100 people seated!

    These individuals, all of middle age or older, were d in splendid garments, exuding an air of dignified grace. They possessed the aura of Immortals, with heavenlyws fluctuating around them, their prowess profound and powerful.

    The Heavenly Order Temple was one of the core institutions of the Three Great Ruins. Those who could enter were at least of the status of Celestial Officials or Manor Masters.

    Among them was Huyan Pin''s father, the Mysterious Sword Manor Master, and Celestial Officials such as the Drunken Mad Sword, all sitting in a distant corner, maintaining their silence.

    At the highest seat of honor in the Heavenly Order Temple sat an emaciated old man with white hair and a white beard, his body emitting dark golden smoke. His skin was marred with ck spots, making him appear on the verge of death, yet his pair of pure white eyes sparkled with vitality.

    The hundred or so Manor Masters, Celestial Officials, and others of simr status solemnly fixed their gaze on this frail old man.

    "Li Hongpao and the Jade Immortal Tower Lord have arrived," someone at the entrance announced.

    "Let them in." The frail old man slightly lifted his head, his body shrouded in billowing smoke, resembling an ancient Immortal atop the clouds.

    Shortly after his words fell a red-robed woman, and a man entered together.

    The woman was none other than the Temple Head of the Mystic Zenith Temple.

    The man was dressed in a luxurious robe, his long hair tied back, adorned with two pearl earrings, his appearance striking and his demeanor entric. He was the owner of the Primordial Ruin''s famous Jade Immortal Tower!

    The rumor-famed gracious financier, however, bore a frosty expression, deeply somber.

    Everyone knew that the man cherished his daughter above all else. Now, having lost a great fortune and his beloved daughter, he was struck by a cmitous blow, a fatal hit!

    "We pay our respects to the Sky Source Son."

    Upon entering, the red-robed woman and the Tower Lord immediately bowed to the frail old man.

    To outsiders, the title Sky Source Son would evoke awe, second only to that towards the Three Immortals, for it referred to the offspring of the Sky Source Immortal. Among the descendants of the Three Immortals who had been alive for hundreds of years, very few remained in the world.

    "Two incidents urred under your jurisdictions. Report any details and uncertainties here," the Sky Source Sonmanded, gesturing for them to be seated before addressing them.

    "The incidents began at the Primordial Academy. Please, Temple Head, report first," the Tower Lord said.

    The red-robed woman then faced the Sky Source Son, detailing the events and her suspicions.

    "Whether a true devil or a false one, it remains undetermined," the red-robed woman concluded, then fell silent.

    Next, it was the Tower Lord''s turn. He detailed the theft in the VIP area and then addressed the Sky Source Son. "Aside from real and false devils, I rmend a thorough investigation of Yun Xiao, a disciple of the Primordial Academy. This individual has connections to both locations. Even if he was at the Divine Dawn Pavilion, he could still be a conspirator. Using him as a lead, we might uncover the real culprit."

    "Correct. Even if he didn''tmit the act himself, this youngster cannot escape involvement."

    Several Celestial Officials and Manor Masters shared this opinion.

    "May I ask if the Sky Source Son will issue the Sky Source Command to bypass the Primordial Academy and directly apprehend Yun Xiao?" the red-robed woman asked, her beautiful eyes shimmering with a cold light.

    As soon as her words fell, someone outside announced another arrival.

    "Dean Yu and several Sacred Sages from the Primordial Academy request an audience."

    The Sky Source Son looked up and spoke in a hoarse voice, "Let only Yu Ningchang enter."

    The main suspect appearing personally caused all descendants of the Three Immortals within the Heavenly Order Temple to scrutinize the entrance with a cold gaze.

    Before long, a figure with snow-white hair down to her waist appeared at the entrance of the Heavenly Order Temple.

    She did not enter but stood at the radiant entrance, addressing the Sky Source Son, "I came personally to rify that this matter has nothing to do with me or the Academy Faction."

    The Sky Source Son looked at her with his pale eyes, without responding.

    Dean Yu shook her head. "Even if you report this to the Three Immortals, my answer remains the same. We do not covet the treasures of the Jade Immortal Tower, and the Primordial Academy, having epted the descendants of the Three Immortals as disciples, has always treated and taught them well. Harming their lives serves no purpose to the Academy Faction."

    After a moment of contemtion, the Sky Source Son finally nodded. "In that case, does Dean Yu suggest that devils, indeed, have remnants?"

    "I don''t know." Dean Yu shook her head. "I can only assure that for the incident at the academy, we will cooperate fully with you all to investigate and hope to find the real culprit soon."

    "If it really turns out that devils are provoking us, how will you respond?" the Sky Source Son asked.

    "Devils are the enemy of all in the Primordial Ruins. As part of the Ruins, the Primordial Academy naturally stands with you all against the devil forces." Dean Yu paused, then looked at the Sky Source Son. "Perhaps, you should send someone to the Blood Devil Ruins to look for clues."

    "Thank you for the reminder," the Sky Source Son said in his raspy voice.

    "You''re wee. Farewell." With that, Dean Yu didn''t waste her words. She turned and left, disappearing in an instant, leaving the descendants of the Three Immortals exchanging nces.

    "What she said makes sense. Now, they''re simply relying on the Primordial Pagoda to retain a semnce of arrogance. For them, neither the massacre of the Pathseeker Society nor the incident at my Jade Immortal Tower offers any benefit. It would only drag them into turmoil," the Tower Lord said.

    "It could also be that they''re betting on us not finding any evidence, just to spite us," the red-robed woman coldly said.

    "Regardless, there is a real culprit, and they must still be in the Primordial Ruins. With Three Immortals Day approaching, simr incidents must not happen again¡­" The Sky Source Son nced at everyone. "From this moment, the Primordial Ruins will be temporarily sealed. Everyone will conduct a thorough investigation until the truth is uncovered."

    "Yes!" Everyone nodded.

    "May I ask if the Sky Source Son wishes to issue the Sky Source Command to forcefully capture Yun Xiao?" the red-robed woman inquired.

    "This young man is one of Yu Ningchang''s, and since she personally came to the Heavenly Order Temple, we need not embarrass her nor startle the snake... Now, she is betting on Lian Xi, who is the heart of these rebels. After the Three Immortals Day, dealing with this girl and wiping out her followers will suffice," the Sky Source Son said.

    "Yes!" Everyone nodded, understanding who was more important.

    "Eradicating Lian Xi is a direct order from the Three Immortals themselves. The public opinion has already beenid out; all that''s needed is the right moment during a grand feast, which will happen in the next few days. You all must keep a tight lid on the entire Primordial Ruins to prevent any further disturbances," the Sky Source Son instructed, his gaze enveloping everyone with a smoky haze.

    "Yes!"

    The Tower Lord and the descendants of the Three Immortals nodded emphatically.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Primordial Academy, above the clouds, a lotus tform soared across the sky.

    Dean Yu, with her snow-white hair, sat cross-legged upon it, her eyshes fluttering slightly as she meditated. Her beauty was otherworldly and cool, tall and exquisite, showing no sign of age.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    At that moment, a grey-robed elder appeared before her.

    "Shen Cang." Dean Yu opened her eyes, and the lotus tform she sat on halted as well.

    The grey-robed figure frowned slightly, "Yun Xiao left the Divine Dawn Pavilion, but the Blood Bat Curse did not?"

    "Correct." Dean Yu nodded.

    "This young man has many tricks up his sleeve, able to deal with the Blood Bat Curse and even control souls. Bold yet meticulous, he yed a grand act. He even concocted the lie of a True Devil''s resurgence..." The grey-robed figure nodded in admiration.

    Did he not know whether this True Devil actually existed?

    "It''s useful to him, not to us." Dean Yu shook her head.

    "It is useful." The grey-robed figure''s eyes sharpened. "He and the Nian have managed to draw the attention of the Three Immortals and their descendants at this crucial time, buying Lian Xi some time."

    "That''s true. Just as this child said, he himself can be the eye of the storm," Dean Yu recalled Yun Xiao and smiled faintly. She never expected that this boy from the Nine Hells could aplish so much in just a few days.

    "His strength has increased too rapidly, beyond what''s normal. Could it be that he''s using some method to suppress his true realm, unlocking it step by step?" Shen Cang wondered.

    "I don''t know." Dean Yu shook her head. Her expression was serene, her words few.

    "Do you have concerns?" the grey-robed figure asked.

    "Yes," Dean Yu paused, "Lately, there''s been increasing rhetoric about Lian Xi being the child of disaster. It''s growing more intense. I fear actions will follow."

    "It was bound to happen sooner orter. It''s all about who can get ahead of time," the grey-robed figure said solemnly.

    "I''ve told Lian Xi to hurry up and integrate with the Primordial Pagoda." After saying this, Dean Yu, controlling the lotus tform, passed by the grey-robed figure.

 Chapter 438: Debt in Blood

    Chapter 438: Debt in Blood

    In the Divine Dawn Pavilion, inside the cultivation chamber, Yun Xiao was seated cross-legged on the ground.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>From within his body, a series of thunderous explosions erupted intermittently, giving off a sensation akin to the creation of the universe. Strands of white radiance were born within his flesh, making it seem from afar as though 99 zing stars were arranged within his body!

    This was the Primordial Martial Furnace. The stars functioned like an alternative form of Dantians, emerging within the muscles of Yun Xiao. Unlike the Dantian, which had awork of meridians, these Primordial Martial Furnaces could connect with each other through the muscles.

    This was somewhat simr to the physical tempering methods of demons.

    The difference, however, was that the power of the Primordial Martial Furnaces and the Primordial Sacred Wheel inside Yun Xiao''s Dantian couldmunicate with each other. After all, both were born from the Primordial Void Technique!

    The Primordial Martial Furnace was a part of the Primordial Void Technique.

    As a result, Yun Xiao''s body formed a power structure with the Dantian and meridian system as its core and the 99 star-like furnaces in his muscles as an auxiliary.

    Thetter greatly enhanced his closebat abilities and the strength of his flesh.

    "In simple terms, my body alone now qualifies as a tri cultivator of sword, martial, and sigil disciplines."

    These were all within the human cultivation system, unified within one body, which for Yun Xiao, was still considered normal. After all, he regarded himself as a true member of the human race.

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    "Having 99 Primordial Martial Furnaces, each ignited by a different type of Yang grade metallic material, is indeed quite extravagant." Thinking this, Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh.

    Earlier in the day, he couldn''t even afford a Yin grade Gold Diamond Crystal. Now, at night, he''d utilized 99 types of Yang grade materials.

    Now, each of his Primordial Martial Furnaces possessed unique minor characteristics, which, whenbined, produced the best effect!

    "The talents of the Seeds of Creation allow for self-integration and the strengthening of strong meridians. Having consumed so many Seeds of Creation recently, all have merged into my Nine Suns Dantian, Nine Heavens Star Meridians, and the Primordial Golden Core. The talent of my Mystic Golden Dao Embryo should now surpass that of Tian Zhixiu by more than ten times."

    However, the Mystic Golden Dao Embryo was somewhat inferiorpared to the Seeds of Creation absorbed from Ye Xingchen and Ling Chen, two chosen ones of destiny.

    Yun Xiao had acquired many Meridian and Core type Seeds of Creation from the young geniuses of the Pathseeker Society. Yet, despite arriving in a higher realm like the Primordial Ruins, he still found these talents suppressed by the Nine Suns Dantian and Nine Heavens Star Meridians.

    Yun Xiao didn''t mind it, though. After all, these two talents were also significantly enhanced through the process of absorption!

    "I am now in the Late Sacred Wheel Realm, capable of contending against someone in the Perfect Five Decays Realm without issue. However, facing someone like Dharma Crown Qin, who has perfectly endured all five tribtions of the Establishment Five Decays Realm, still requires some effort." Yun Xiao took a moment to regte his breathing, then stepped outside only to find no one around.

    "Where''s Lian Xi?" he asked.

    "She went to the Primordial Pagoda," a person in white robes replied.

    "Oh." Yun Xiao nodded, then inquired further, "Is everything calm outside?"

    The person in white robes hummed affirmatively, then said gravely, "For now, but perhaps a storm is brewing."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Blood Devil Ruins¡­

    The earth was putrid and strewn with corpses. Under the wash of blood, even the rocks and sand of this coastal area had turned blood-red.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Standing on the cliff, one could see below an endless ck sea of blood, shrouded in mist, with the ceaseless wails of billions of wronged souls. From a human perspective, it was impossible to see just how vast this bloody hell truly was.

    The terror of this sea of blood had spread across thousands of worlds for hundreds of years. The nearby worlds, capable of moving, had mostly evacuated, leaving only the suffering, who lived year-round under the shadow of blood and resentment, barely clinging to life.

    "Chi Yang,e over!" Suddenly, a loud call came from the edge of the Blood Devil Ruins.

    Several beams of light quickly moved towards the source of the voice. The speaker was Yun Jin, a young man in blue.

    In a moment, several disciples of the Primordial Academy gathered around him. They appeared to have gone through several battles, their bodies stained with much blood, each of them covered in ck scabs, even their eyebrows dripping blood.

    "The blood resentment demon is here!" Yun Jin pointed towards a deep cave at the edge of the shore.

    "Kill!" The tall and burly Martial Cultivator Chi Yang, leading the group of academy disciples, charged in.

    Suddenly, a shrill scream echoed from within! That was the voice of the blood resentment demon.

    Chi Yang sealed off the cave and peered inside, only to see the floor of the cave''s depths covered with thousands of human skulls.

    A woman with a delicate blood-red body, her lower half dissolving into countless ck blood veins that entwined around the skulls, fiercely screeched at Chi Yang and the others!

    "Form up and execute!" As top disciples of the Primordial Academy, their actions were orderly and swift, with seamless cooperation.

    The Sword and Inscription Cultivators carried out the assault, with the Martial Cultivators leading the vanguard!

    This blood resentment demon, having umted a significant amount of blood energy, couldn''t withstand the assault of their magic treasures.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Half of the cliff copsed thunderously, with fierce blood mes burning up to the heavens, as the blood resentment demon screamed in agony and died within the execution.

    "Phew! That makes the 109th one! Brothers, you''ve worked hard." Chi Yang took a deep breath, collecting the remnant soul of the blood resentment demon.

    "It''s just too many." Yun Jin wiped the blood off his face, looking out over the vast Blood Devil Ruins. "For hundreds of years, the devil blood and resentment have not dissipated. The number of lives swallowed increases, and the arising resentment continues to grow. I fear that eventually, the entirety of the Blood Devil Ruins will transform into an unprecedented blood demon, which would be truly terrifying."

    "I n to send two back first to request the Academy to dispatch more hands and rank the Blood Devil Ruins as the highest level demon-ying task. Otherwise, we really can''t clean it up thoroughly," Chi Yang said gravely.

    "Right!" Yun Jin and the others nodded.

    The group turned back, silently ncing at the skulls inside the cave. They couldn''t speak, nor did anyone know their stories. These skulls, big and small, all ended up as fodder for the blood resentment demon.

    "Once, the Martial Emperor n exterminated the Devil Ark. Yet eventually, it led to the rise of the Three Immortals and their descendants. Now, in the prosperous era of the Primordial Ruins, it should be the responsibility of the Primordial Guards to eradicate demons from the myriad worlds. But where are they?" Yun Jin shook his head and sighed.

    "You don''t know?" Chi Yang sneered, "I came from one of those myriad lower worlds. I know that the Primordial Guards go to the most flourishing human worlds to mine, treasure hunt, and break into ruins... The suffering of the people has nothing to do with them!"

    The group exchanged nces, feeling helpless and unsure of what else to say.

    "The Three Immortals enforce thew, protect the dao and all beings, ensuring the great prosperity of the people and an eternal golden age¡­"

    Reciting this slogan, incredibly popr in the Primordial Ruins, and then looking at the shattered reality before them, it was clear that those ascended Immortals knew nothing of hardship.

    "The female Sword Immortal who raised Lian Xi, she is the true Immortal remembered by the people..." Chi Yang stood on the cliff, murmuring to himself.

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    "What audacity!" Suddenly, a coldugh, chilling to the bone, came from behind them.

    The hearts of Chi Yang and the others raced! For someone to approach this closely without being detected indicated that the neer was very powerful. They quickly turned to the source of the voice.

    A group of people d in silver armor emerged from the blood mist, stepping forward with heavy breaths, their footsteps thunderous, their silver armor stained with blood, and their pale eyes filled with a murderous aura!

    Unlike Chi Yang and hispanions, these individuals were clearly older, mostlyposed of veteran warriors!

    "The ck Battalion?" Chi Yang''s brows furrowed deeply.

    This was a top elite group within the Primordial Guards, directly subordinate to the Three Great Ruins, with each member being in the Late Five Decays Realm or beyond!

    "Be on alert. Use the Lesser Projection Art and start recording everything," Yun Jin, ever the observant one, warned the others at the first sight of this group in the wilderness.

    At that moment, a slender woman in silver armor stepped forward from the group.

    "Xuan Meng!" Chi Yang stepped back, his eyes growing colder.

    "The granddaughter of Mystic Earth Son herself hase to y demons?" Yun Jin said with a smile.

    "You''re wrong." The silver-armored girl smiled coldly. "Not to y demons, just to y you."

    With those words, the rest of the ck Battalion behind her spread out suddenly.

    Over 30 individuals encircled the few Primordial Academy disciples!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "What is the meaning of this?" Yun Jin asked coldly.

    "To end the lineage of the Academy Faction," Xuan Meng said lightly.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As her words fell, the Life Sigil between her eyebrows swirled, transforming into an 800,000 Rune eight-headed ckwater serpent, coiling around her silver-armored body, hissing at Chi Yang and the others!

    The gap in strength was too vast!

    "Despicable!" Chi Yang was well aware that cursing was useless now; their only hope was to get the recording of these events out!

    "Break out!" The group, ustomed to fighting together, coordinated well. However, once the fight began, the difference in numbers and age meant they had no chance at all!

    "Make it quick, let''s go home after the ughter," Xuan Meng said coldly.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Numerous Life Sigils formed a prison, oppressively descending from all directions at the edge of the Blood Devil Ruins.

    "Born as protectors of the Dao, yet you do not y demons but instead kill those who do. What kind of descendants of True Immortals are you? You are the true offspring of devils!" Chi Yang was uncontrobly furious, his rage and sorrow erupting in a roar.

    "Hehehe..." The members of the ck Battalion merely sneered coldly, ying with their prey like a cat with a mouse.

    "Pitiful,mentable, boring." Xuan Meng, unabashed, mocked the righteousness of these passionate youths.

    "Better to die and be liberated early." She scoffed coldly, directing the eight-headed serpent towards Chi Yang.

    "Too mediocre. The top disciple of the Academy Faction isn''t evenparable to Tian Zhixiu."

    In truth, the Three Immortals Lineage didn''t send their strongest descendants to study at the Primordial Academy. And Xuan Meng was far stronger than Tian Zhixiu.

    "Die!"

    Just as the ck Battalion was about tounch their attack, a massive tremor came from the direction of the Blood Devil Ruins.

    <em>BOOM! </em>It seemed as if the entire sea of blood in the Blood Devil Ruins was trembling, as countless humongous jets of blood shot into the sky.

    "What is that..." Both the ck Battalion and the disciples of the Primordial Academy were startled, halting their actions to look.

    "There''s a figure there!!"

    Following their gaze, within the towering blood mist, there was a fiery and tall silhouette!

    She floated in the air like a work of art, her face unclear, yet one could tell she possessed unparalleled beauty...

    And the terrifying aura of a devil!

    "Devil!!" Xuan Meng and the others lost theirposure in shock. How could this be? This was a devil whose mere presence instilled fear in them.

    "Leave!" Xuan Meng came to her senses and quickly ordered everyone to flee.

    As soon as her words fell, she felt a lethal gazend on her.

    "Ah..." Xuan Meng looked up!

    The unparalleled female devil, shrouded in bloodlight, was conjuring the entire ocean, appearing before her eyes.

    "What is this..." Xuan Meng''s delicate body trembled violently.

    <em>SMACK! </em>The unparalleled female devil pped her face.

    "UGHH¡­!" Xuan Meng screamed as her head flew into the sky,nding in the Blood Devil Ruins Sea 300 miles away, while her silver-armored body still stood trembling in ce.

    "Run!!" The remaining members of the ck Battalion were terrified out of their wits.

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! </em>The unparalleled female devil extended her hand, and countless drops of blood shot out, transforming into blood dragons that instantly swallowed all the silver-armored cultivators, melting them into bloodwater.

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    "Uh..." Chi Yang and the others stared in shock, the orbs in their hands dropping to the ground.

    The unparalleled and indistinctly faced female devil nced at Chi Yang and his group coldly and said, "Go back and tell the Primordial Ruins, we''vee to im the debt in blood..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 439: Wolves at the Front, Tiger at the Back!

    Chapter 439: Wolves at the Front, Tiger at the Back!

    In the Primordial Academy, inside an elegant, secluded courtyard¡­

    "Master!" Chi Yang, dressed in a red robe, wiped the hardship from his face and knelt with a thud before a white-haired woman.

    That woman was Dean Yu.

    "Rise." Dean Yu addressed Chi Yang and the other disciples beside him.

    These disciples had just hurried back from the Blood Devil Ruins and went straight to see Dean Yu, apanied by Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong, two Sacred Sages.

    The two had already heard about the situation at the Blood Devil Ruins, now having grave expressions.

    "Hand over the item to the Dean," Feng Qingcong instructed the blue-d youth, Yun Jin.

    "Yes!" Yun Jin''s face was slightly pale, his hands trembling slightly as he handed over a white orb to Dean Yu.

    This was a treasure capable of recording events in real-time, known as a Projection Orb.

    The path of cultivation was fraught with danger and killing. To avoid being falsely used or dying in obscurity, many cultivators carried one with them.

    Dean Yu took the Projection Orb and activated it with her power, and a projection appeared before everyone.

    The projection started from the moment the ck Battalion members appeared and ended with the message of a debt in blood from the female devil.

    When the figure controlling a blood dragon, surrounded by a torrent of blood mist, appeared in the recording, even Dean Yu furrowed her brows, her eyes stirring with shock.

    "A True Devil!" She uttered through clenched teeth.

    "Yes, a True Devil!" Chi Yang said with a grim face, "We have several more Projection Orbs that can corroborate everything we''ve said!"

    Yun Dahe solemnly added, "One recording is enough."

    Chi Yang, Yun Jin, and the other disciples exchanged nces before Chi Yang said, "Master, Uncle Masters, with the remnants of the Devil Ark and the appearance of a True Devil now confirmed, what should we do? Should we report this to the Three Great Ruins?"

    Feng Qingcong scoffed, "Of course, we''re going to report it. Since the Three Immortals took up the Imperial Family''s banner of eradicating devils to protect the myriad worlds, it''s their duty to handle the resurgence of such evils."

    "But I fear they might not take it seriously¡­" Chi Yang shook his head.

    "How could they not? This threatens their very rule," Dean Yu remarked, handing the Projection Orb to Yun Dahe, "Divide this recording into two parts. Send thetter half to the Heavenly Order Temple and reveal the truth to the people of the Primordial Ruins."

    "Two parts?" Chi Yang looked up at Dean Yu, puzzled. "Master, do you mean to say that not only are we not seeking justice from the ck Battalion for not killing demons but instead attacking us, we are also to pretend as if it never happened?"

    "Yes." Dean Yu nodded. Clearly, for the three elders, while the first part of the content was infuriating and repugnant... it was enough that they were aware of it.

    "There''s no point in seeking justice; it would only lead to a falling out," Feng Qingcong said.

    Hearing this, the younger disciples like Chi Yang struggled with their emotions before reluctantly lowering their heads in frustration.

    "We y demons, the descendants of the Three Immortals y us, and in the end, the devil saves us... What kind of world is this?" Chi Yang shook his head in bitterughter.

    "Does it contradict your ideals?" Dean Yu asked calmly.

    "Yes! I don''t understand." Chi Yang, with a fiery heart, looked up determinedly.

    "Ideals are often pure, but reality is fraught with conflicts of interest. It''s normal for you, who are inexperienced in the world, to be confused," Dean Yu exined.

    "Alright then." After a moment, Chi Yang earnestly asked again, "Master, now that the True Devil has appeared, the people living around the Blood Devil Ruins are in even greater danger. If we are too afraid of the ck Battalion to go out and y demons, who will help themon people find safety?"

    Dean Yu shook her head and sighed softly. "There''s no way out. Just endure a little longer, and perhaps, there will be hope."

    "I can endure, but the people must wait with their lives on the line!" Chi Yang''s eyes burned with passion as he said to Dean Yu, "Master, regardless of what the descendants of the Three Immortals do, I wish to return to the Blood Devil Ruins immediately to make a difference for humanity."

    "The Blood Devil Ruins will soon be a stormy ce. Are you sure?" Dean Yu asked with pursed lips.

    "As cultivators, if we have no hope of eternal life, then what''s the point of cultivation? It''s nothing but to use one''s life to do meaningful things. If I can die for my ideals, I will have no regrets and die gloriously!" Chi Yang said with conviction.

    Dean Yu looked at him with intense eyes, speechless for a moment.

    "Dean, I wish to follow my sworn brother''s steps back to the Blood Devil Ruins," Yun Jin said.

    "I will follow!"

    "So will I."

    Watching this group of young people, Dean Yu''s eyes shimmered with a hint of light.

    "The world is overshadowed by dark clouds, and the era is gued by snakes, insects, demons, and devils, bringing suffering to the people. Yet... in you, I see the hope for the future," Dean Yu said.

    Chi Yang smiled slightly, patted his chest, and said no more. He had ascended from the lower world to the Primordial Ruins, holding onto his beliefs, never giving up.

    "Go then," Dean Yu nodded.

    "Thank you, Master, for your blessing!"

    After speaking, Chi Yang and a group of sworn brothers turned around to leave. As he approached the doorway, Chi Yang slowed his pace, eventually stopping. He turned around, scratching his head, and asked, "Master, I just heard about the situation with my junior sister these past few days. Is she alright?"

    "She''s fine. You can see her before you leave," Dean Yu replied.

    After a moment of silence, Chi Yang offered a simple smile and said, "Forget it, as long as she''s happy, that''s all that matters to me."

    With those words, they turned and left, their departure carrying a certain air of nonchnce.

    "In reality, the risks she faces here in the Primordial Ruins are far greater than anything you would encounter in the Blood Devil Ruins¡­" This was what Dean Yu thought to herself, but she kept it unspoken.

    "Senior sister, we''re off then." Yun Dahe and Feng Qingcong also left to attend to their own matters.

    Now, Dean Yu was left alone in the deep courtyard. Only then did a figure in a gray robe emerge from the shadows.

    "A True Devil? Impossible¡­" the figure in the gray robe shook his head.

    "Are you certain they were eradicated?" Dean Yu asked.

    "I was sure before, now I''m confused," the figure in the gray robe said, exasperated.

    "At least, the devil in this footage is real, and moreover, quite powerful and seemingly young," Dean Yu noted.

    "These creatures are like cockroaches; if there''s one, it means there are definitely more," the figure in the gray robe replied, his brow furrowing even deeper.

    "With wolves at the front and a tiger at the back, life is fraught with difficulty, and the way forward is unclear," Dean Yu said, her gaze dimming as she sighed softly.

    "It might not all be bad," the figure in the gray robe mentioned.

    "Do you mean to say that now, with the Three Immortals'' descendants so powerful, it''s difficult for either us or the True Devils to truly confront them? Although we can''t be the fishermen, we might observe their struggle from the sidelines and find a way for humanity to survive?" Dean Yu turned to look at the figure in the gray robe.

    "The Primordial Academy, Jade Immortal Tower, and Blood Devil Ruins... In all three ces, the True Devil only harmed the descendants of the Three Immortals, indicating they are already in conflict," the figure in the gray robe said solemnly.

    "Mhm." Dean Yu nodded, feeling a flicker of hope.

    "Speaking of which, it''s unexpected that the incidents at the Primordial Academy and Jade Immortal Tower weren''t Yun Xiao''s doing. He just passed on the Blood Bat Curse for a simple outing," the figure in the gray robe said with a mix of amusement and disbelief.

    Dean Yu smiled wryly, responding, "We imagined him to be too formidable. In the end, he''s just a child."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?N?v(el)B\\jnn

    At the Sky Source Ruins, within the Heavenly Order Temple, Yun Dahe delivered the Projection Orb and left after uttering a single sentence.

    The descendants of the Three Immortals were left in an incredibly solemn atmosphere, watching the footage contained within the sphere.

    "A True Devil!!" Only the second part of the footage was shown, and it was actually quite brief.

    The appearance of the unparalleled female devil was decisive and direct, as she effortlessly pped the head off Xuan Meng, a direct descendant and genius of the Three Immortals...

    What followed was a bloody massacre!

    As the footage ended, the Heavenly Order Temple fell into dead silence, with everyone''s eyes wide open, reying the Projection Orb five times!

    "Indeed, unmistakably a devil!"

    A storm of shock and awe surged within the hearts of these strong descendants of the Three Immortals.

    "Sky Source Son..." For a moment, all eyes turned towards the gaunt old man enveloped in golden mist.

    "It is indeed a True Devil," the Sky Source Son said. His words carried the utmost authority.

    "So, the incidents at the Primordial Academy and the Jade Immortal Tower were truly the work of the devils..." the red-robed woman remarked with a shifting gaze.

    The <em>truth </em>wasid bare. The master of the Jade Immortal Tower also had a grim face, "So it was those beastly remnants! Unexpectedly, it had nothing to do with Yun Xiao..."

    "So, the revenge of the devils, provocation, robbery, and ughter, all of it is real!"

    The brows of the Celestial Officers and Manor Masters were deeply furrowed.

    "This is a major event!"

    Throughout history, the devils had always been the primary enemy of the Primordial Ruins and the human race. Had it not been for the Martial Emperor n exterminating the Devil Ark, the two races would still be embroiled in ongoing wars. Even the descendants of the Three Immortals harbored a shadow of fear towards the power of the devils!

    In this deathly silent atmosphere, the Sky Source Son, holding the Projection Orb, dered, "I will make a trip to the Nine Hells. You all should prepare for Three Immortals Day."

    "Yes!" Everyone nodded. The fact that the Sky Source Son himself sought to inform the Three Immortals personally indicated the seriousness of the situation.

 Chapter 440: False Accusations! Family Execution!

    Chapter 440: False usations! Family Execution!

    In the Nine Hells, a deste wilderness sprawled, where butterflies of gold, silver, and ck swarmed denser by the moment, entrapping the Immortal Asylum in a dazzling prison of light. The Nian had fallen silent, his roars ceasing as thend morphed into andscape of eerie peculiarities.

    On the dimly lit pathways, a mass of snakes and insects writhed and crawled like waves upon the sea, their movements rustling with ghostly whispers.

    "Father, uncles. Tian Ding requests an audience," suddenly, the voice of the Sky Source Son cut through the silence outside the Immortal Asylum.

    This gaunt old man, hunched and withered, hovered outside the butterfly formation. He waited, and soon beneath the formation, a ck face materialized, formed of dense sword energies. When it spoke, it was as if a sea of swords trembled with its words.

    "What is it?" the ck face inquired.

    "Uncle, please look." The Sky Source Son ced a Projection Orb into the butterfly formation.

    The ck face inside the formation watched it once, then fell into a thoughtful silence, likely conversing with the other two.

    After a long pause, the ck face decreed, "I will deal with the matters in the Blood Devil Ruins. Return to the Primordial Ruins to preside over them. Ensure that the remnants of the Martial Emperor n are eradicatedpletely."

    "Yes!" The Sky Source Son nodded. From these instructions, it was clear what the three Immortals prioritized.

    The first was the Nian and the Immortal Asylum. The Sky Source Immortal and Mystic Earth Immortal were to remain here.

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    The second was the True Devil! A single viewing decided that the Human Zenith Immortal would personally intervene.

    Finally, the third was the remnants of the Martial Emperor n. Left to the descendants, indicating its lesser importance in their eyes.

    "The Nian of the Immortal Asylum, a capital for ascension, could change much."

    "The remnants of the Devil Ark, the return of the other races, must be nipped in the bud!"

    Lastly, cleaning up the <em>trash</em> at home was deemed the lowest priority.

    "With that being the case, I''ll not bother with devils but focus solely on Three Immortals Day..." With a sinister smile on his aged face, Sky Source Son took to the skies.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Day broke again, and just as Yun Xiao predicted, Dean Yu, while notifying the Three Great Ruins, also leaked the news about the reemergence of the devils to the public.

    When Yun Xiao emerged from the Divine Dawn Pavilion, the most heated discussions were about the resurgence of the True Devils!

    Merely hours before, even the students of the Primordial Academy were debating whether Yun Xiao was the true culprit behind two bloody incidents.

    "Brother Xiao!" As Yun Xiao approached the base of the Primordial Pagoda, Ah Yao and the others rushed to greet him. Here, tens of thousands of academy students had gathered!

    After his name was <em>cleared</em>, Yun Xiao was no longer seen as a deranged serial killer; his poprity soaring overnight.

    "Dharma Crown Yun!"

    Even if the Temple Head revoked the title, within the cheers of tens of thousands of students, he remained their Dharma Crown.

    "Brother Xiao, I''m so happy for you, finally no more carrying the me!" Ah Yao said with a big smile.

    "Just half an hour ago, hundreds of thousands of people outside the Primordial Academy were cursing you, and now they''ve all run off, faces flushed with embarrassment."

    "These people have no brains, the Temple Head of Mystic Zenith Temple herself said that you had the Blood Bat Curse on you and never left the Divine Dawn Pavilion. They wouldn''t believe it, and now they''re the ones embarrassed!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The crowd buzzed with discussion.

    They were genuinely happy for Yun Xiao; otherwise, with the True Devil''s descent, they wouldn''t dare to feel so at ease.

    "Thank you all, for helping clear my name," Yun Xiao said, expressing his gratitude with a serious face.

    "It''s what we should do, we all believe in you!"

    "You''re open and honorable. You never hide when you kill."

    Yun Xiao felt somewhat ashamed upon hearing this; after all, he was the true culprit behind both the massacre at the Jade Immortal Tower and Pathseeker Society¡­ Not only that, but he also had a hand in the events in the Blood Devil Ruins.

    "What about Senior Brother Chi and the others? I heard they''ve returned," Yun Xiao changed the subject.

    Ah Yao scratched his head, "They went back to the Blood Devil Ruins."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    "Chi Yang said, with more resentment demons spawning there and the True Devil''s descent, the people are in greater danger, and he wants to do something about it," Ah Yao exined.

    "A belief worth admiring," Yun Xiao nodded in approval. He suddenly felt reassured. Along the way, there were still many idealists, doing things simr to what he was doing. Although their methods varied, at least, they were not alone in their endeavors!

    "I heard there are many blood resentment demons there, and the Merits Arena has issued endless demon-ying tasks. Our brothers are nning to go as well," Ah Yao shared.

    "Yes, we''re all going." Though some were afraid, a sense of responsibility buoyed their spirits.

    "Brother Xiao, will you go?" one disciple asked.

    "Don''t be silly. He can''t leave the Primordial Ruins. Tomorrow is Three Immortals Day, and he has his trial the day after¡­" another person said.

    At this, the mood dipped.

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    "Don''t worry, everyone. Brother Xiao has great luck; he''ll be fine!" Ah Yao dered loudly.

    "That''s right! We''ve got skills and haven''t yet done something meaningful for this world. We can''t waste that."

    They all seemed optimistic.

    Yun Xiao smiled at them, then asked, "What about Lil Xi?"

    "She''s challenging the tenth level of the Primordial Pagoda," many replied in unison.

    Clearly, this was why they had gathered here. When Yun Xiao first arrived at the Primordial Academy, she was challenging the eighth level.

    "Why is there no projection to watch?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    The space below the Primordial Pagoda was empty.

    "Above the ninth level, it''s not aboutbat strength but special enlightenment, which is not made public," Ah Yao exined.

    "Got it."

    Meaning, to know if she could seed, they had to wait here.

    Yun Xiao looked up, gazing at the tenth level of the Primordial Pagoda.

    "She''s integrating and taking control of the Primordial Pagoda," Blue Star suddenly said quietly.

    "Like Chen Xi controlling the Primordial Bell of the Heavenly Realm?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes, if she seeds, she should have a clearer understanding of her mission, and her abilities should improve." Blue Star nodded.

    "Is there a risk she might recognize me?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Normally, no, since she''s just an incarnation of transcending cmity... but if she seeds, her connection to her true self will definitely strengthen. So, you''ll need to be more cautious in how you interact with her from now on, keeping some things back," Blue Star advised seriously.

    "Understood," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "When do you n to dig up her heart and let Chen Xi in? If you let her seed in taking over the Primordial Pagoda, it might be difficult for you to do anything to her for a while," Blue Star said with a smirk.

    "Seems like someone''s found a new love and forgotten the old," Red Moon scoffed.

    "Shut up." Yun Xiao gritted his teeth.

    There were some things he didn''t fully trust Blue Star and Red Moon on. Trust in one''s intuition was paramount. So, the decision on when to take that step, Yun Xiao found himself unable to make at the moment.

    "Great, he''s really fallen for her," Red Moon eximed noisily.

    "Fallen for your sister..." Yun Xiao retorted, then joined the other disciples in silent vigil under the Primordial Pagoda.

    It was then he faintly heard sobbing!

    "Lian Xi! Lian Xi! Save me!"

    Yun Xiao paused, "Whose voice is that?"

    With a rustle, the crowd parted to create a path. A pale-faced girl in a pink dress stumbled forward, crying and running in such a manner that it tugged at the heartstrings.

    "Liu Yingying?" Seeing her aim for the Primordial Pagoda, Yun Xiao quickly blocked her path.

    Liu Yingying, in her panic, ran into his arms, her tears and fear spilling onto Yun Xiao.

    "What''s wrong!" Yun Xiao asked sternly, gripping her arms.

    "Save... Save..." Liu Yingying looked at him like a drowning person.

    "Calm down! Speak!" Yun Xiao roared.

    Despite finding Liu Yingying somewhat unpleasant when they first met, and still being somewhat annoyed by her, she was, after all, a sister figure who grew up with Lian Xi, and her family had shown kindness to Lian Xi.

    Naturally, Yun Xiao would help if there was trouble.

    Under Yun Xiao''s sternmand, Liu Yingying finally calmed down a bit. Clutching his clothes, she urgently said, "They... they came to our home and found some Devil Destion Pearls. Then, they used us of secretly serving the devils and ordered our entire family to be executed!"

    "Serving the devils, ordering your entire family to be executed?" Yun Xiao frowned deeply.

    "The Primordial Guards came to arrest me! My parents, brother, sister, grandparents, all were captured, lined up at the door, all to be beheaded... Save us! Save..." Liu Yingying was too terrified; she shook uncontrobly as she spoke, barely able to catch her breath, as if she were choking on her words, her eyes filled with tears.

    "Brother Xiao, it''s definitely a set-up!" Ah Yao said angrily. As for who was behind it, the answer was clear.

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    "Lian Xi!" Liu Yingying broke free from Yun Xiao''s grasp, fell to her knees with a thud, and cried out in a heart-wrenching voice, "Save our family, please... I beg you!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Right after her plea, a girl dressed in white with red-rimmed eyes leaped down from the tenth level of the Primordial Pagoda.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 441: Iron Blooded Justice!

    Chapter 441: Iron Blooded Justice!

    "Make haste to the Liu Manor, there''s a spectacle to behold!"

    At the crack of dawn, as the morning drills of the Ascension Technique concluded, the streets of the Primordial Ruins teemed with a surging crowd, voices echoing far and wide.

    "Which Liu Manor?" many queried.

    "The one in the pawnshop business, quite the wealthy lot!"

    "In the Primordial Ruins, the Liu families running pawnshops are a dime a dozen."

    "The one that raised that child of disaster!"

    "Oh..."

    With such a description, most knew exactly which it was.

    "What misdeed has Liu Yuanmitted? Let''s go see!"

    Instantly, a human tide flowed towards a particr residence. This was a manor in the Primordial Ruins of moderate standing¡ªnot too noble, yet holding considerable capital.

    At this moment, the entrance to Liu Manor was engulfed by a sea of people! On the surrounding streets, amidst the Immortal towers, heads crowded, necks stretched, all eager to catch a glimpse of the Liu Manor''s entrance, buzzing with spection.

    There, before the Liu Manor, stood a contingent of over 2,000 Primordial Guards, armored, their expressions solemn.

    Under their escort, many of the Liu Family''s elderly, weak, women, and children emerged, faces pale, terror-stricken, with the sharp cries of children piercing the air.

    "What''s the situation with the Liu Manor?"

    Some of the onlookers, cultivators from the Primordial Ruins, were yet clueless about the details.

    "Didn''t they just confirm that the remnants of the Devil Ark were behind the tragedies at the Pathseeker Society and the Jade Immortal Tower? I heard that the Primordial Guards found Devil Destion Beads used by devils for physical enhancement in this Liu Manor, proving that the Liu Family colluded with devils, betraying humanity!" many voiced indignantly.

    "Good heavens, what audacity."

    "People die for wealth, as birds die for food. In these times, few before the face of profit have a conscience. The Liu Family, already flush from their usual earnings, even dared to profit from devils, and now this fate is well deserved!"

    "Absolutely vile!"

    "Even viler is the thought that among us, how many more heartless vermin there might be."

    Hearing these shocking revtions, the cultivators of the Primordial Ruins were utterly astounded.

    "Enough with the usations, the Heavenly Order Temple has already issued an enforcement decree. To serve as a warning to others, to sternly deter those with malicious intent, the Heavenly Order Temple has decided to publicly execute the entire Liu Family!"

    "An entire n execution? Truly, justice served... heh."

    Hundreds of thousands watched intently, their gazes scrutinizing the Liu Family.

    "The enforcers are actually those two!"

    Eagle-eyed among the crowd, some spotted two especially striking figures standing tall amidst the encirclement of the Primordial Guards.

    "Who?"

    "Among the descendants of the Three Immortals, the two under twenty with the highest talent! Even Tian Zhixiu, who perished at the Primordial Academy, wouldn''t be worthy to tie their shoces!"

    "They''re the onesing? The Liu Manor really is drawing the big cards!"

    "At their age, to have surpassed the Five Decays and achieved the status of Primordial Yin Immortals, they''re considered exceptional in history."

    "Turns out, they''re the most direct descendants of the purest bloodline of the Three Immortals!"

    People''s gazes towards these two valiant youths were zing, filled with a light of faith.

    Their adoration for the Three Immortals naturally extended to the most direct descendants of these revered figures.

    "From the Sky Source Ruins, Tian Chen!"

    "From the Human Zenith Ruins, Jian Xing!"

    "From their childhood, they''ve honed their skills among the Primordial Guards, battled demons across countless worlds, ensuring the peace and safety of all humanity. They''re not like those greenhouse flowers inside the Primordial Academy!"

    "Speaking of greenhouse flowers, someonees to mind..."

    "Who?"

    "Lian Xi." The speaker chuckled coldly, "This girl is hailed as the miracle of the Primordial Ruins, achieving Yin Immortal status at 14, faster than both Tian Chen and Jian Xing. But when it reallyes down to it, could she withstand a single move from either of them?"

    "Hard to say, after all,bat in the way of immortals requires experience and trials, not just being cute in bed or fawning over a murderer."

    "Haha..."

    Such crass remarks indeed drewughter from many.

    Even though this was a moment of disaster for the Liu Manor, with the family halfway plunged into the underworld, the onlookers seemed quite amused. It couldn''t be helped. People''s joys and sorrows only aligned when it suited their interests.

    Amidst this mirthful atmosphere, those two widely anticipated valiant youths approached the Liu Manor and its people.

    On the left, a youth dressed in light golden armor, helmet and boots included, clearly a full set of top-tier Immortal magic treasures. His eyes were pure white, his aura gleaming with golden light, and his face was stern and imposing,

    On the right, the other youth presented a contrasting demeanor, wearing a loose, ck robe, hair disheveled, barefoot, with afortable smile on his face, carrying a somewhat carefree air.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Marshal Chen, Marshal Xing, 1,351 members of the Liu Family have been escorted out, with only Liu Yingying remaining," a Primordial Guard reported.

    "A family should be ounted for, whole andplete." The youth known as Jian Xing, cloaked in ck, greeted the sunlight with a heartyugh. Though somewhat frivolous, he radiated a sense of cleanliness.

    "Great sirs!" From among the crowd at Liu Manor, a middle-aged man with a face painted in despair stepped forward, falling to his knees before Tian Chen and Jian Xing!

    He first kowtowed thrice, forcefully enough to bleed his forehead, then spoke with a trembling voice. "This is a grave injustice! The Devil Destion Beads aren''t ours. Please, grant me a few days, and I can prove our innocence!"

    "Liu Yuan." The golden-armored youth known as Tian Chen nced down at him. "Your n hasmitted grave offenses and remains unrepentant, iming the Heavenly Order Temple has wronged you. Such acts question the Temple''s ability to enforce thew,pounding your errors."

    With that, his indifferent gaze swept over the over 1,000 people, adding, "I''ve decided, on top of the execution of your entire n, to impose an additional penalty. Your souls, after death, will be imprisoned in my Mystic Starfire Banner, subjected to the torment of starfire for ten years without release, to serve as a warning to others!"

    These words caused an uproar. To burn the soul, preventing reincarnation! This was, in fact, even more ruthless than a n-wide execution.

    "Truly the actions of a direct descendant of the Three Immortals, decisively iron-blooded!"

    "Those who betray humanity deserve to be punished!"

    "Without such iron-blooded measures, the heartless would only grow..."

    Liu Yuan, the middle-aged man, had never imagined that his plea for mercy would plunge his n deeper into hell. Struck as if by thunder, his eyes wept blood.

    Behind him, the elderly, women, and children of his n trembled on their knees, crying in despair, some already scared witless. Especially the children old enough to understand, hearing of the Mystic Starfire Banner, screamed and wailed even louder.

    "Great sirs, I am willing to plead guilty! This matter has nothing to do with my family. I beg you to punish me a thousandfold instead, spare them, please. The children... they are too young..." As Liu Yuan prostrated himself, knocking his head on the ground with such force that blood mingled with his tears, which fell like rain.

    "Knowing the kids are young, yet you dared tomit such a grievous error? And to have so many? If anyone is to me, it''s only yourself, Liu Yuan," Jian Xing said with a cold chuckle.

    "Even if the crime were yours alone, it''s a crime of abandoning your n, a crime for which everyone is justified in punishing you. Not exterminating your nine generations would not quell the public outrage." Upon saying this, Tian Chen turned to face the hundreds of thousands of cultivators from the Primordial Ruins, asking, "My friends, do you deem it just to execute the entire family?"

    "Execute them all!"

    The cry of excitement overwhelmed the heavens.

    "We, the righteous people of humanity, share no sky with devils."

    Tian Chen said this with a somber expression, then raised his hand, loudly dering to all present, "The time hase, execute them all!"

    Thismand to execute the Liu Family reverberated in all directions.

    Over a thousand members of the Liu family were forced to kneel!

    Of the more than 2,000 Primordial Guards, half suppressed the crowd while the other half raised their swords, the cold gleam of their des chilling to the core.

    "Why Liu Yuan, just because he took in Lian Xi?"

    Perhaps this question flickered through some minds at that moment, but none dared to voice it.

    Before even speaking, the little voice inside their heads corrected such <em>absurd</em> thoughts.

    <em>The Three Immortals saved the world, guiding all beings to enlightenment. The Heavenly Order Temple carries out the will of the Three Immortals. How could it falsely use the innocent? </em>The little voice insisted, believing in the Three Immortals was never a mistake.

    And so, under the golden mists of immortality, whether it was the onlookers, the executioners, or those to be executed, their expressions were twisted, bizarre, and utterly absurd.

    The swords raised for execution were held high.

    Those beneath the des trembled and wept, their minds nk.

    And just as the swords were about to fall¡ª

    <em>BOOM! </em>A white figure suddenly crashed down into the center, the force of its impact throwing people around it into disarray, and the execution was abruptly halted.

 Chapter 442: The Tigress Enters the Fray!

    Chapter 442: The Tigress Enters the Fray!

    "Who?"

    The smoke cleared suddenly, revealing a girl in a snow-white dress amidst it. She was enveloped in a white luminescence, her head bowed slightly, her pupils narrow like those of a feline, giving off a fierce appearance. Between her red lips, a pair of tiny fangs peeked out, instilling a sense of awe.

    "Lian Xi!"

    Her name was quickly recognized by the crowd.

    "Lil Xi..." Upon seeing her, Liu Yuan''s sweat finally ceased, but what followed was an even deeper difort. Hemented, "You could have just secured a safe passage for Yingying. Why did you have to step into this mess?"

    He was no fool. He knew better than anyone that this was a dead end.

    "Dad!" A girl in a pink dress threw herself into Liu Yuan''s arms, bursting into tears. It was Liu Yingying.

    "Lian Xi hase to save us! Dad!" Liu Yingying cried like rain.

    "She can''t save us." Liu Yuan said tremblingly, sinking further into despair.

    "Why?" Liu Yingying asked, pained.

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    "..." Liu Yuan did not answer.

    Under Liu Yingying''s stupefied gaze, she looked up and indeed saw the whole world looking at their family with utter indifference¡­ It was the feeling of being abandoned by the world!

    Why? She didn''t understand. What had they done wrong? Human hearts eaten away by Gu, people treated as devils!

    "Lian Xi?" The golden-armored youth, Tian Chen, with a slight smile under his helmet said, "As the enforcers of Heavenly Order Temple, any interferer will be considered equally guilty. May I ask if you intend to betray humanity and stand against the Primordial Ruins and all beings of the myriad worlds?"

    "No, no, no." Jian Xing hurriedly shook his head and bowed to Lian Xi, saying, "Please hear me out. Although the Liu Family owes you for your upbringing, the mistake they''ve made has forsaken all of humanity!

    Tian Chen, smiling again, added, "You might not be aware, but when the Heavenly Order Temple was passing judgment, someone imed that you were part of the Liu Manor and should be executed as such. However, my grandfather, the Sky Source Son, valued your potential and argued for your separation from this sinful estate for the sake of all beings. We hope you will align with the wishes of the people, cherish your reputation, and not sully it by associating with the True Devils!"

    "Heh..."

    They spoke eloquently, yet the crowdughed in response.

    "Tian Chen, Jian Xing." Lian Xi clenched her fists. "If you wish to target me,e directly at me. To stoop to such despicable means is beneath your strength."

    The mightier they were, the more contemptible their tactics, often ensuring their victory in battle!

    ughtering the entire Liu Family wouldn''t dent the strength of the Primordial Academy, but such vile and lowly methods were indeed nauseating.

    "Lian Xi, we fail to grasp your point. The crime lies with the entire Liu Family, not with you, and certainly doesn''t implicate you," Tian Chen said with a smile.

    "Onest reminder," Jian Xing added, still smiling, "The hour is upon us. We urge you to preserve your purity. Don''t let the filth of the Liu Family sully you."

    "Nearly 15, not so young anymore, not the naive girl you once were! Don''t let your emotions cloud your judgment and hinder the enforcement of the Heavenly Order Temple''sws!"

    "Under thew, the Emperor andmoners are equally guilty; how much more so for the insignificant Liu Family?"

    A barrage of reproachful words descended upon her.

    Under this overwhelming pressure, Tian Chen''s eyes grew cold as he proimed with a majestic voice, "By the solemn decree of the Heavenly Order Temple, the Liu Family and all its rtives are to be executed immediately. Any who defy thismand share the same guilt!"

    "Yes!" The Primordial Guards did not hesitate, lest they be found guilty themselves. And so, they hurried themselves.

    "Execute!" Over 2,000 people, in unison, raised their swords and des.

    "Lian Xi!" Liu Yuan suddenly stood up, seizing a ceremonial de and cing it against his throat, he shouted despairingly at the girl in the white dress. "Go! You have a sacred duty to protect. Do not let the insignificant lives of my n doom the future..."

    "Uncle Yuan." Tears filled Lian Xi''s eyes as she looked at the middle-aged man. He was not powerful, but he had given her a home, where everyone treated her kindly... Over a thousand people here, all her kin.

    She could see, many in white robes around her shaking their heads. This was a trap set by the descendants of the Three Immortals; stepping in would mean falling for it entirely!

    In this atmosphere of despair, in this vast world, there was only one young man in white standing by her side, nodding at her. That was Yun Xiao. He said, "In life, it''s rare to have it all. If being rational means sacrificing my family, between understanding and madness, I often choose madness."

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    This was his way, opting for a desperate fight, seeking a perilous path to survival, battling to the end!

    "They suffer because of me; it''s my duty to take responsibility. Help me," Lian Xi suddenly said, turning to Yun Xiao. Truth be told, she had already figured it out. She just needed someone to stand by her side!

    "Go!" The protectors in white robes surrounding Lian Xi couldn''t intervene as long as she was not in danger. Exchanging a nce at the moment the entire family was condemned, they suddenly sprang into action!

    Yun Xiao stepped back, Lian Xi forward! They crossed paths without a nce, yet their coordination was as if honed over countless epochs.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As he moved past Lian Xi, Yun Xiao was enveloped in a violet dragon aura, with over 500,000 Runes swirling around him!

    He had acquired many treasures in the Jade Immortal Tower that could enhance his Sword Aura and Runes, but to keep suspicion off him, he had refrained from using them. After today, perhaps he could!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Pr Yin-Yang Chess!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>With his Life Sigil, Yun Xiao conjured a massive violet chessboard right at the entrance of the Liu Manor!

    Unlike the ordinary Pr Yin-Yang Chess, his board materialized thousands of ck and white chess pieces, each adorned with dragon patterns. These pieces, like Flying Swords, charged, spun, and even shattered into the void!

    <em>CRASH! CRASH! CRASH! </em>The moment the over 2,000 Primordial Guards shed down with their swords, they were blown away by the dense swarm of ck and white pieces, battered until bloodied!

    The strength of the Primordial Guards, mostly in the Genesis Spirit Realm and lower, was overwhelming in numbers but stood no chance against Yun Xiao''s supreme mastery of daoist spells. Not a single one could withstand it!

    Under Yun Xiao''smand, the violet chessboard swept up, unleashing a thunderstorm that hurled the 2,000 Primordial Guards through the air, blowing them away into the crowd outside!

    The Liu Family remained unharmed, safe and sound! This audacious act not only stunned the cultivators of the Primordial Ruins but also left the entire Liu Family dumbfounded.

    They couldn''t imagine defying the Heavenly Order Temple, what a grave sin that was! This was no minor scuffle within the Primordial Academy! Not just Lian Xi had acted, Yun Xiao too...

    Liu Yuan, holding the de against his throat, stood dumbstruck as tears streamed down his face.

    "Dad! Everything will be alright..." Liu Yingying took the de from him, her voice choked with tears.

    "What do you mean, alright? This is serious trouble!" Liu Yuan''s face was the picture of despair as he sighed. "Under the heavens, all is celestial territory. In this vast world, all are under the dominion of the Three Immortals. Where can our family find even a spot to call our own..."

    "There is one, the Primordial Academy!" Hope sparkled in Liu Yingying''s eyes. "I heard that the Three Immortals do not enter the Primordial Academy, because there lies the Primordial Pagoda. They fear it!"

    "Don''t be ridiculous..." Liu Yuan said, his gaze distant.

    "It''s true, I once... identally overheard those in white robes talking to Lian Xi!" Liu Yingying insisted.

    "Really?" Liu Yuan shivered, a sliver of hope finally blossoming in his heart.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao appeared beside him!

    "Get ready. We''re breaking through to the Primordial Academy," Yun Xiao said.

    Luckily, the Liu Family wasn''t far from the Primordial Academy.

    Liu Yuan looked deeply at the young man. He noticed that beside Yun Xiao, Lian Xi seemed even more resolute and determined.

    "Alright!" Liu Yuan clenched his teeth. His mind buzzed, aware of the heaven-defying act they were embarking on. Yet these two youngsters were calm, earning his admiration.

    "Lian Xi..." Lifting his head, Liu Yuan saw Lian Xi taking on the two at once, buying them time.

    "Yin Immortal Realm, huh? Seems even stronger than the Five Decays Realm," Yun Xiao muttered to himself.

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    Without using the Sword Heart, he knew he wasn''t qualified to participate in this battle between peak Immortal talents. However, whatforted him was seeing Lian Xi, in her rage, disying her peakbat power for the first time in front of the world.

    "You go first; we''ll cover the rear," Yun Xiao said, ncing at Lian Xi, then addressing Liu Yuan.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 443: One Versus Two!

    Chapter 443: One Versus Two!

    The sudden rescue by the young man and girl stirred a massive uproar!

    "Lian Xi, Yun Xiao, by openly defying the Heavenly Order Temple and abducting the remnants of the Blood Devils, you havemitted a crime that cannot be redeemed!"

    These words were not spoken by the Primordial Guards, but were instead shouted in unison by the cultivators in the Primordial Ruins.

    Initially incredulous at the sight of the young pair, the crowd quickly erupted into furious anger!

    In the Primordial Ruins, the Three Immortals were the faith of all beings, and no one could defy the will of the Three Immortals, let alone collude with demons or devils!

    "This is an intolerable mistake for themon people of the Primordial Ruins!"

    "We earnestly request that these two arrogant children be executed swiftly to rectify the eternal customs of the human race!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The entrance to the Liu Manor immediately descended into chaos, with everyone raising their arms in rage. The veins in their bloodshot eyes writhed like worms, crawling and moving about.

    Faced with the fury of the masses, Tian Chen and Jian Xing would not stand idly by!

    Tian Chen stepped forward, dering solemnly and thunderously, "You two, by openly obstructing the enforcement of the Heavenly Order Temple and aiding the escape of devil colluders, havemitted the crime of defying the Three Immortals. This crime, witnessed by the masses, cannot be forgiven! Even if you possess talents that defy the heavens, you cannot escape punishment!"

    Jian Xing sneered coldly, looking disdainfully at Lian Xi, "Especially you, who enjoyed the highest resources of the Primordial Ruins, personally named an Immortal by the Three Immortals and granted a noble status, yet youmitted such a grave mistake, truly disappointing all beings under heaven!"

    "Please capture this lowlife immediately!"

    Many cultivators of the Primordial Ruins shouted angrily, their hatred as if Lian Xi had in their own parents and children.

    "Kill!" Their roars eventually converged into a single word, oppressively bearing down on Lian Xi''s frail shoulders.

    In their eyes, the blood-vein-like Gu writhed around their pupils, excited as if celebrating the new year.

    Tian Chen and Jian Xing exchanged nces, no longer speaking, and pounced towards Lian Xi from left and right!

    Seeing it was these two, the people in white robes held back for the moment.

    The situation at this moment might have worried these white-robed individuals greatly!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Tian Chen''s light gold armor shone brightly, making him appear like a golden war god on the battlefield!

    In his hand appeared a battle g, which fluttered in the wind, burning with a fire as bright as the stars. The gpole, resembling a spear ornce, was wrapped in star fire like a dragon, its majesty astounding!

    This was a Mid Yang grade treasure, far surpassing the Binding God Cord, known as the Mystic Starfire g.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    It was rumored that Tian Chen, wielding the Mystic Starfire g and leading tens of thousands of Primordial Guards, had rescued millions ofmoners, earning widespread admiration and faith across the myriad worlds for his meritorious deeds.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the battle g waved, it was as though thousands of troops were charging forth, unleashing thunderous roars of wind and thunder, showcasing the formidable strength of a distinguished descendant from the Sky Source Ruins!

    He was a Yin Immortal! One could feel that the power emanating from Tian Chen surpassed that of the Five Decays Realm! He already possessed hundreds of years of longevity, and his future was boundlessly promising, making him iparable to Tian Zhixiu.

    Beside Tian Chen, Jian Xing suddenly wielded a ck Sword Soul in his hand!

    <em>HUM! </em>This ck Sword Soul, akin to a dark starry sky, featured a dazzling pentagonal star at its hilt. It illuminated the dark expanse, its radiance like golden threads, spreading across the entire sword. The sword wasyered with over 800,000yers of Sword Aura, and it boasted seven top-tier Sword Rings!

    "Upper Yang grade, Emperor Star Sword Soul, the sword of the great emperor star. In terms of Sword Soul quality, this is the highest between heaven and earth!" the masses eximed in awe.

    Of course, their definition of the highest did not include the Human Zenith Immortal.

    The Human Zenith Sword Immortal, the progenitor of swordsmanship, where could his descendantspare?

    Wielding the Emperor Star Sword Soul, Jian Xing was like a ck and gold dragon, standing shoulder to shoulder with Tian Chen, one gold and one ck, their might shaking the heavens, causing an uproar of excited shouts from the crowd!

    They had never shed with Lian Xi before! But, people had alwayspared them with Lian Xi...

    Even though Lian Xi was universally recognized for her higher talent, they were all over five years older than her! In terms ofbat power, not many believed Lian Xi could be stronger than them! One was a Martial Cultivator, the other a Sword Cultivator!

    Lian Xi, with indignation in her heart, stared intently at the two, her pretty face fierce, a <em>king</em> character appeared on her smooth forehead!

    With a low growl, akin to a tiger''s roar, she silenced the surrounding curses and discussions. That domineering momentum,pletely opposite to her usual demeanor, burst forth!

    <em>BOOM! </em>She stomped on the ground, and the stone bs forged from gold and stone materials beneath her shattered, propelling towards the two men.

    <em>BOOM BOOM! </em>A hammer and an axe appeared in her delicate hands!

    On the giant axe, nine white thunderbolts twined around it, with thunderous light running through the body, and the axe''s de gleamed sharply!

    And on the heavy hammer, with hundreds of spikes, fierce white mes zed, shining as bright as the scorching sun, warping the surrounding space of the world.

    Even the golden immortal mist began to sizzle and smoke!

    These two magic treasures, naturally not inferior to Tian Chen''s Mystic Starfire g, were both Mid Yang grade artifacts¡ªone being the Nine Heavens Thunder Axe, and the other the Sun Burning Heavy Hammer. Both were the inheritance treasures of some historically violent and burly Martial Immortals from the Primordial Academy!

    And now, they both belonged to Lian Xi, the historically most delicate owner.

    When Lian Xi made her move, her seemingly frail body burst forth with the explosive power of a mountainous sea beast, making her ferocity send shivers down one''s spine!

    Her way of fighting was straightforward and forceful, with no trace of finesse!

    Yun Xiao yed the sword with finesse enough to embroider, but she was theplete opposite. Wielding the heavy hammer and giant axe, she struck the ground, her delicate bodyunching forward with thunder and mes to smash and sh directly at her opponent''s forehead!

    "So fierce?" Tian Chen, simr to Lian Xi, appeared gentle and schrly but was in reality a formidable Martial Cultivator, extremely proficient in closebat.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He frowned, swinging the Mystic Starfire g in his hand, thrusting it forward like a dragon piercing through, its tip swirling the g into a hundred-yard diameter vortex of star fire, aiming to envelop Lian Xi!

    Within this storm of star fire, Lian Xi cast a cold nce at him. Despite her heavy weapons, her speed was not diminished. The Sun Burning Heavy Hammer in her right hand crashed down like a falling sun, directly blocking the tip of the Mystic Starfire g!

    Yun Xiao excelled in leveraging force, while Lian Xi purely used strength to break cunning. The heavy hammer, like a fiery golden mountain, smashed against Tian Chen''s spear tip. The collision sparked ring fireflies!

    <em>BOOM! </em>A loud st ensued, and the Mystic Starfire g seemed to strike an iron wall, with immense force pressing down and white mes swallowing the star fire vortex!

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>Tian Chen''s Mystic Starfire g was bent by the pressure!

    "Huh?" Tian Chen''s face changed.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The bent Mystic Starfire g rebounded with great force, sending Tian Chen flying, his spear slipping from his grasp. The shock split his palm, and the spear''s butt pressed against his chest armor, cracking it open!

    Tian Chen screamed in pain as he flew backward into the crowd, knocking over a hundred people and spitting out a mouthful of blood. His ribs broke on the spot!

    "Is this woman a behemoth?!" Tian Chen leaped up, hisplexion slightly altered, his mind briefly nk.

    He knew this girl was only 14 years old! Both being talented Martial Cultivators, he had always beenpared to Lian Xi, and he harbored some disbelief regarding his own talents being inferior to hers.

    He hadn''t anticipated that a five-year age difference would result in his defeat with a single blow!

    The moment he was struck, a gasp of shock rippled through the crowd!

    Right after Lian Xi sent him flying with her hammer, she turned and brought down her Nine Heavens Thunder Axe with her left hand, striking directly at the Emperor Star Sword Soul lunged by Jian Xing!

    The Sword Soul, with over 800,000yers of Sword Aura and boasting seven demon magics, conjured a sea of swords. Yet, Lian Xi saw through its position with a nce. The Nine Heavens Thunder Axe, even faster than the Sun Burning Heavy Hammer, sliced down, and nine thunder dragons tore through the sky!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Emperor Star Sword Soul was cleaved by the axe, causing three of its seven Sword Rings to explode. Like Tian Chen, Jian Xing and his sword were sent flying!

    Jian Xing fared even worse; his Emperor Star Sword Soul cracked, causing his eyes to fissure and he fell to the ground vomiting blood and screaming. His face turned deathly pale, and his bones convulsed with pain!

    "Uh..." The crowd''s eyes widened as they watched the once formidable twin stars, one rolling on the ground, the other tumbling into the crowd bleeding!

    They had thought, even if unable to defeat Lian Xi, it would at least be an evenly matched battle thatsted several rounds.

    Instead, the strongest twin stars together couldn''t withstand even a single move from her!

    They were utterly defeated on the spot, wailing like defeated dogs.

    Many cultivators of the Primordial Ruins lifted their heads, looking at this violent girl wrapped in lightning and mes with trembling eyes.

    Yun Xiao had been the center of attention these past days, indeed making many forget her mythical talent!

    "To fight two against one and to overpower the twin stars so thoroughly, it must be said, if she does not err, does not fall into the path of devils, her future would be boundless!"

    "What a pity! A real pity!"

    Facing such talent, even if misguided, there were still those who felt regret.

    But s, even the most beautiful flower, once tainted, wouldn''t be cherished by many.

    "Lian Xi, return to the Primordial Academy." After brutally defeating the obstructing twin stars, those in white robes quickly reminded her.

    Their brows were deeply furrowed. Not in me towards Lian Xi, but because they all understood that this event, even defeating the twin stars, was futile.

    No matter how exceptional the talent, once marked as an enemy, only a bloody pathy ahead.

    And in such a short time, numerous descendants of the Three Immortals, strong ones, had already gathered around Tian Chen and Jian Xing. These seniors helped the two stars up, staring at Lian Xi with cold eyes.

    Their numbers would only grow, making it harder for the over a thousand people of the Liu Family to escape.

    Lian Xi knew all these truths well!

    While people were still astonished by her strength,menting her fall, Lian Xi turned to Liu Yuan, Liu Yingying, and the others, gritting her teeth, "We need to leave now... or it will be toote..."

    Everyone knew, from this moment on, everything had changed. Though things weren''t great before, now, it was a public, in-front-of-all confrontation, and the charges were set.

    Brainwashing by Gu, controlling the narrative, the Three Immortals here always represented the ultimate righteousness andpassion! To oppose them was to be unforgivably demonic.

    "Lian Xi!" Just as the girl turned, Tian Chen, clutching his painfully wounded chest, called out her name with a cold expression and then said, "Look, what is this?"

    With that, he produced a Bag of Holding!

 Chapter 444: To Control the Heavens and Earth, You Must Bear Their Weight!

    Chapter 444: To Control the Heavens and Earth, You Must Bear Their Weight!

    Tian Chen opened the Bag of Holding, spilling out some objects that shimmered with white light.

    A dozen or so pieces, upon closer inspection, revealed tiger stripe patterns.

    "This..." Lian Xi trembled, turning around abruptly. The items that had fallen to the ground were aplete set of armor, including a helmet, breastte, arm guards, shoulder guards, a battle skirt, and boots.

    It somewhat resembled the armor found within the Primordial Pagoda of the Primordial Academy, but it was clearly of a much higher grade. Despite the marks of age, it still exuded an awe-inspiring majesty and a domineering aura!

    This full set of armor, each piece adorned with white tiger patterns, especially the breastte, resembled a tiger''s head, its eyes fiercely ring at the world, imposing without anger!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "How could the Martial Emperor''s Armor be in the hands of a descendant of the Three Immortals?"

    Yun Xiao heard a white-robed elder beside him whisper, his expression extremely shaken.

    And for a moment, most people around did not recognize what it was!

    <em>BOOM! </em>In the next instant, the entire set of White Tiger Armor suddenly emitted a mournful roar, as if bemoaning its fate, then flew towards Lian Xi!

    <em>CLICK! CLICK! CLICK! </em>It wrapped around Lian Xi automatically, even altering its shape to fit her, transforming into a set of female armor. Upon wearing it, she did not appear cumbersome but rather perfectly matched, her valiant elegance enhanced!

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    Clearly, only a top-tier treasure could possess such an effect!

    Once it reached Lian Xi, the armor, dormant for years, finally awakened. It roared, absorbing the power of heaven and earth, with runes emerging and the deste power surging forth, creating an earth-shattering sensation!

    "What''s happening? Did Tian Chen give Lian Xi a set of top-tier magical armor?"

    "I have no idea..."

    This scene left many cultivators of the Primordial Ruins baffled.

    Until some elders and veterans widened their eyes, pointing at Lian Xi with trembling fingers and a voice filled with horror, they shouted, "That is the Martial Emperor''s Armor!"

    This name awakened many memories.

    Legends told that hundreds of years ago, the Martial Emperor n ruled over the Primordial Ruins. The Emperor possessed an armor that could conquer heaven and earth, y demons and devils, and instill fear in monsters and evil beings!

    In the battle against the Devil Ark, the Martial Emperor''s Armor had shown its might.

    However, as the heinous acts of the Martial Emperor n, including the harvesting of young girls'' hearts, were exposed, the n fell into decline. The Three Immortals descended, rebuilding the then-tattered world... And the Martial Emperor''s Armor, it seemed, had also vanished into obscurity.

    After that, no one remembered it anymore.

    It could be said that this set of Imperial Armor bore the glory of the Martial Emperor n''s 10,000 years of history!

    "It really is the Martial Emperor Armor!"

    Tens of thousands of cultivators from the Primordial Ruins witnessed this scene, and their hearts stirred. But soon, they realized something terrifying!

    In that moment, their inner rage exploded!

    Tian Chen stepped forward, roaring in the most furious tone, "Historical records state that only the direct bloodline of the Martial Emperor n can activate the Martial Emperor Armor!"

    With these words, everyone who was clueless understood at that moment.

    <em>BOOM! </em>It was as if the entire Primordial Ruins exploded. In an instant, the eyes of all those around bled with a fury that could not coexist under the same sky.

    Tian Chen, standing amidst the rage, proimed in a grand voice, "Lian Xi, the Primordial Ruins have always suspected you as a child of disaster, yet many have defended you. But now, with irrefutable evidence, not only do you consort with devils, but you are also the descendant of an ancient n of sinners. On behalf of the people, I ask you, do you acknowledge your guilt?!"

    A single piece of irrefutable evidence had determined everything.

    The appearance of the Martial Emperor Armor proved that the descendants of the Three Immortals had long had a way to prove Lian Xi was a child of disaster... they merely chose the most opportune moment to reveal it. And that moment was now!

    Lian Xi, in her attempt to save her family and oppose the Heavenly Order Temple, had caused a great uproar, which still left a bit of room for mitigation. But now, the opposition had truly yed their trump card with one goal: to nail her firmly to the column of sin, leaving her no chance of redemption.

    Moreover, the most crucial point was¡ª

    Once branded a child of disaster, even if the Primordial Academy continued to protect her, the nature of their support would bepletely altered!

    Roars of rage and curses, like a tsunami, crashed down upon the girl.

    "Descendant of sin, you deserve to be hacked to pieces!"

    "Chop her into mincemeat, to atone for the Martial Emperor n''s crimes, and give an exnation to the people of the world!"

    "Three hundred years! You, a child of disaster, have survived to this day, even bing an Immortal in the Primordial Ruins. What exactly do you intend to do? To make aeback and poison the people once again?"

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    Three hundred years! Those from that era had mostly passed away.

    Yet, in this world, the hatred for the Martial Emperor n, nurtured generation after generation by the Gu, had seeped into their bones. The deep-seated curse had be their instinct!

    As they roared madly, the scarlet insects in their eyes almost fell from their eyeballs. This scene was shockingly gruesome, yet, sadly, they themselves could not see it clearly.

    Only Lian Xi stood alone in this cursed tsunami, letting the blood-like storm batter her body over and over again, causing her internal organs to rupture.

    Looking at such snarling faces, she was reminded of her childhood¡­ Back then, she had no friends because every touch with other children would hurt them. And so it was rumored she was cursed, condemned, and could only hide in corners to cry. Until her grandmother appeared and took her away.

    She asked her grandmother, "Why do I always irritate people and hurt others just by existing?"

    Her grandmother, kind and gentle, said, "You should ask why your talent far surpasses others."

    "Why?" she asked.

    "Because you were born to be an Empress above the clouds, destined to dominate the fate of humankind," her grandmother said meaningfully. "And such people are often misunderstood."

    "Misunderstood?"

    It pained her; she yearned to be understood.

    Her grandmother stroked her head, smiling, "Yes, but it doesn''t matter. You just need to do your duty. One day, people will recognize everything you''ve contributed. And this is the pursuit of people like us... The truly steadfast in spirit are not brought down by rumors and malevolent res."

    She was too young then, how could she understand all that her grandmother said?

    At this moment, viewed by the world as a child of disaster, those inhuman curses pierced her heart over and over. If not for the heavy burden of the Martial Emperor Armor, she felt an urge to kneel and weep bitterly...

    This was the treatment a girl deserved, not to endure and stand firm. Childhood memories and the present world swirled in chaos, like demons whispering in her ear.

    "What is the meaning of cultivation?"

    For the first time, her spirit wavered, filled with doubt.

    In that moment of despair, suddenly a hand grasped hers. Lian Xi trembled slightly and lifted her head, only to see a young man in white standing beside her amidst the abyss of curses and sin.

    He simply smiled gently at her. Suddenly, it was as if the rising sun broke through the darkness, sunshine spreading everywhere, and all the filth and grievances dissipated like smoke.

    "Yun Xiao, do they hate me just because of the Gu?" Lian Xi asked, puzzled.

    "Does it matter?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Doesn''t it matter?" Lian Xi replied, not understanding.

    "It doesn''t." Yun Xiao gripped her hand tighter, looking into her eyes, "If you really want to get to the bottom of this, it''s not hard. We could just kill the Three Immortals, burn all the Gu in the minds of the beings, and then see."

    "What if they still hate me then?" Lian Xi asked.

    "Then we''ll just kill all these idiots, and the world will be at peace," Yun Xiao said.

    Lian Xi was stunned.

    So, enlightenment was that simple?

    "To love the people, you must bear their ignorance. To control the heavens and the earth, you must bear their weight." The confusion in Lian Xi''s eyes faded, reced by a firm gaze and a surging fighting spirit!

    "Stop being sentimental, hurry back to the Primordial Academy. The real battle is about to begin," Yun Xiao patted her head, "On the bright side, today you gained an epic-level treasure armor for free."

    "Mhm!" Lian Xi chuckled, her smile blooming like a flower.

    Those cursing her were furious to see this! They were cursing her, and here she was falling in love, smiling sweetly?

    "What a pair of fiends, utterly outrageous!"

    Many were puffing in anger, hearts aze with fury.

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    Meanwhile, quietly in Yun Xiao''s embrace, Blue Star whispered to Red Moon, "See that? It''s all about cultivating a strong heart in the mortal world. Our brother is simply more awesome than any Primordial Immortal Ancestor..."

    Red Moon pouted and protested, "What''s so great about that? It''s just that the little fairy cares about her face, while our bro can afford not to."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 445: Justice is When You Have the People on Your Side!

    Chapter 445: Justice is When You Have the People on Your Side!

    Beside Lian Xi, over a hundred individuals d in white robes stood guard. At this point, any attempt at defending Lian Xi''s name was utterly meaningless.

    The white-robed elders looked at the Martial Emperor Armor with eyes full of mncholic sighs. Yet, their regard for Lian Xi remained unshakably firm!

    "Please, take my family to the Primordial Academy." Lian Xi found rity amidst confusion, seemingly understanding what needed to be done.

    The over 100 white-robed elders, each with the strength surpassing that of a Dharma Crown, found it rtively easy to escort over 1,000 people.

    "Let''s go!" Entering the throng outside the Liu Manor, they each employed their magical techniques, safeguarding more than a dozen individuals each as they departed amidst the tumultuous public outrage.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Their movements were swift! The Liu Family, from start to finish, werepletely bewildered. Though their heads were not taken, being branded as colluding with devils and opposing the Three Immortals... their panic did not subside, with many children still crying.

    "Let''s go." Yun Xiao lifted Lian Xi onto his six-foot Sovereign Sword. With a vroom, the azure sword soared into the sky.

    Behind them was the dust of the mundane world and the ugliness of society, where everyone''s eyes were bloodshot, controlled by the Gu.

    Yun Xiao didn''t look back, nor did he allow Lian Xi to.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After they had taken these thousands of people away in front of the masses, the entrance to the Liu Manor was swarmed by a sea of people!

    The matter of Lian Xi being a survivor of the Martial Emperor n, amidst this surging crowd, was spreading throughout the Primordial Ruins, inciting an evenrger scale of universal hatred.

    This divine ark, because of one girl, appeared to be set aze.

    Not far from the Liu Manor, atop a tall building, stood over 300 Immortals dressed in gold, silver, and ck brocade.

    Among them was the withered Sky Source Son, hunched over and standing at the forefront! He looked out over dozens of streets, where every inch ofnd seemed ame.

    The Jade Immortal Tower Lord, the red-robed woman, Celestial Officials, and Manor Masters stood by, having almost witnessed the entirety of the events at the Liu Manor entrance.

    From beginning to end, their expressions were utterly cold! The Mysterious Sword Manor Master, Celestial Official Qin, Tian Yn, and the Drunken Mad Sword were also present.

    In the silence, the Jade Immortal Tower Lord suddenly expressed hismentation, "If not for the Primordial Pagoda''s fate being intertwined with ours, always protecting her, given today''s atmosphere, we could have directly eliminated this little scourge and dealt with the problem of the Primordial Academy as well."

    The red-robed woman, with her dazzling red eyes, stared in the direction of the Primordial Pagoda and murmured softly, "We''ve been waiting for this moment for over 100 years¡­ Tomorrow, on Three Immortals Day, we will witness the convergence of the sun and moon. Once the light of the Primordial Pagoda is obscured by the ovepping sun and moon, there will be no forbidden areas in the Primordial Ruins. All opposition will be wiped out in one sweep."

    "The convergence of the sun and moon, a divine spectacle of the ages! Under its brilliance, all worlds will forever belong to the Three Immortals!" The Celestial Officials and Manor Masters were infinitely fervent in their gaze.

    Kill tomorrow! Condemn today! This was their routine operation.

    Tian Yn broke into a chilling smile. "Lian Xi is the survivor of the Martial Emperor n, a child of disaster. Yet, she was raised by the Liu Family, who''ve been found guilty of colluding with the Blood Devils. This shows that both the Martial Emperor n and the Blood Devils have forgotten their animosities and are working together. This is indeed the first scandal of the era of the Three Immortals. Now that it has erupted, Lian Xi''s reputation has plummeted into the abyss...

    "And the Primordial Academy, ignoring the advice of the Three Immortals, sheltered this child of disaster in secret, openly betraying humanity. Such actions of deceiving one''s masters and annihting one''s ancestors are unforgivable by the world!"

    The Primordial Ruins engulfed in tyrannical mes indicated the readiness of the situation.

    "The time hase to reap heads," the Drunken Mad Sword dered, licking his lips.

    Atop this high building, hundreds stood with their hands behind their backs, their minds swirling with thoughts of killing.

    "Sky Source Son." At this moment, Celestial Official Qin respectfully asked, "Tomorrow, as we fulfill the wishes of all beings to exterminate the devils, will the Three Immortals preside in person? It''s said that Yu Nichang is a True Yang Immortal withmendable skills. After all, she easily executed Yuan Xianjun in the Nine Hells.

    The Three Immortals sealed the Immortal Asylum to prevent the Nian from escaping! Whether they could spare the time directly influenced the difficulty of tomorrow''s task. Many were eager to know the answer. So, all eyes turned to the Sky Source Son.

    "The Mystic Earth Immortal will temporarily return for one day to personally deal with Yu Nichang," the Sky Source Son dered, his words firmly capturing the hearts of the descendants of the Three Immortals and the powerful families of the Primordial Ruins present.

    Hearing this, the hearts of the representatives of the major ns and families of the Primordial Ruins, led by the Jade Immortal Tower Lord, were greatly reassured.

    "The Three Immortals dislike losses. Although we can handle the Primordial Academy, if we can easily deal with the external devils, why must we engage in perilous battles?" the Sky Source Son said lightly.

    The crowd nodded in agreement.

    "As long as the sun and moon converge, suppressing the Primordial Pagoda, our conflict with the Primordial Academy will be aplete rout," the Jade Immortal Tower Lord said. "To speak of it, by merging the sun and moon, the Three Immortals have already aplished ny percent of the task."

    As for them, they were merely lending a hand.

    At this moment, Tian Yn approached the Sky Source Son and whispered, "If the Mystic Earth Immortal ising back to deal with Yu Nichang, does that mean only the Sky Source Immortal will be dealing with the Nian?"

    "He may say he''s returning for a day, but with all the groundworkid out, if things go smoothly, he''ll only need half an hour," the Sky Source Son said.

    "Mhm." Tian Yn nodded vehemently, a surge of hatred in her eyes. "Zhixiu is your grandson, and now he can''t rest in peace... Tomorrow, when we catch Yun Xiao, may I deal with him as I see fit?"

    The Sky Source Son, watching the direction in which Yun Xiao and Lian Xi had departed, smiled coldly and said, "A devil''s flea on the head, if you want him, no one willpete with you."

    After speaking, he coughed, his expression turning solemn. He stepped out of the high building, floating above the heavens!

    "Sky Source Son!!"

    The cultivators of the Primordial Ruins, who were parading to vent their hatred, saw this son of the Sky Source Immortal and resembled lost souls who had just seen the first light of the sun. They were overjoyed, raising their hands high and kneeling on the ground!

    "Please, Sky Source Son, quell the evil spirits and wipe out all demons!"

    Thousands of streets in the Primordial Ruins, each packed with a sea of people, were filled with devout followers on their knees.

    The eyes of the popce were filled with a bloody red light!

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"

    "Annihte the child of disaster, ughter all the servants of the devils, and tten the Primordial Academy!"

    The entire Primordial Ruins erupted with this earth-shattering roar simultaneously. Under such a sonic tremor, endless golden mists rolled like ocean waves, with the surrounding worlds trembling.

    "When many gather, that is justice!" The Sky Source Son''s face bore the signaturepassionate smile of a savior, gazing at the masses.

    His ilkmitted endless atrocities but never let it affect their portrayal as the embodiment of justice. Because they excelled in using Gu to stimte and incite the minds of the masses.

    The Sky Source Son had grown fanatically fond of the world his ancestors created!

    In this moment, he was a holy Immortal! All beings needed him!

    Amidst the fervent atmosphere, the Sky Source Son set aside hispassionate demeanor and, with the utmost solemnity, projected his voice far and wide.

    "I dere, from this moment forth, the Heavenly Order Temple issues the Sky Source Decree against the descendant of the Martial Emperor n, Lian Xi. Until the child of disaster ceases to exist, this decree shall not rest!"

    As these words were uttered, cheers like a tidal wave erupted along the thousands of streets in the Primordial Ruins. A gratification to the hearts of the people!

    "Furthermore, any n, group, or individual sheltering the child of disaster will be listed in the Sky Source Ruin''s cklist of grave offenses, implicating nine generations. All shall be executed, their souls condemned to burn in the eternal hells, never to be reborn!

    "If their ancestors had merits, they shall be revoked. If there are tombs, they shall be leveled. If there are remains, they shall be scattered into the Forgotten Demon Sea!" the Sky Source Son proimed once more.

    This was undoubtedly the most explosive decree issued before Three Immortals Day.

    Upon hearing this deration, the blood of the people in the Primordial Ruins boiled again, with cheers covering the skies.

    "The Three Immortals are supreme heavenly dignitaries!"

    "The Sky Source Son is the reliever of suffering. May you live eternally!"

    Thousands of beings, looking up at that divine figure in the sky, were moved to tears.

    "To deal with demons and devils, such iron-fisted measures are necessary. Only by eradicating them at their roots, leaving not a single ember, can all beings in all worlds live in eternal peace!"

    "Decisive in ughter, such is the way of the Three Immortals!"

    In the face of this Sky Source Decree, the actionsmitted by Yun Xiao at the Academy seemed like a light drizzle before the vast ocean, making the five-day trial period seemughable.

    Almost the entire Primordial Academy was judged guilty. What use was a preferential trial period for Level 7 Ding disciples?

    ns couldn''t keep pace with changes!

    For a moment, countless cultivators in the Primordial Ruins turned their gaze towards the direction of the Primordial Academy! Within the golden immortal mist, they widened their bloodshot eyes and startedughing with deranged expressions.

 Chapter 446: All Caution to the Wind!

    Chapter 446: All Caution to the Wind!

    When the Sky Source Decree resounded across the sky, the Primordial Academy descended intoplete and utter chaos! Many disciples from the myriad worlds were terrified by this world-shaking revtion and announcement, their faces awash with shock and confusion.

    "Is Lian Xi really a child of disaster?"

    "Yes! She was seen donning the Martial Emperor''s Armor. So many have witnessed it firsthand. Even the Heavenly Order Temple has issued the Sky Source Decree. Could it be false?"

    Tens of thousands of disciples rushed to gather, their faces panicked.

    "How can a child of disaster provoke such public outrage? What unspeakable crimes against heaven and earth have shemitted?" a disciple wondered aloud.

    "You''ve juste from the myriad worlds, haven''t you? You''re unaware of the history with the Martial Emperor n. If you knew, you''d understand the hatred!" another replied.

    "But Lian Xi seems nice. Why would I hate her? What does she have to do with me?" the disciple asked.

    "It has everything to do with you! Are you clueless? First, a few hundred years ago, the Martial Emperor n stubbornly and self-righteously waged war against the devils. Even if they annihted the devils, it led to the deaths of tens of millions from our race, possibly including your ancestors! Second, the Martial Emperor n harvested the hearts of young girls to forge the Martial Emperor Physique, causing countless deaths.

    "But the most important is the third! The heavens were angered and punished the Primordial Ruins, causing the Five Cmities to turn into Five Decays. With each decline, half the people die. Once you have the chance to face the Five Decays, you''ll understand true despair!"

    At this point, any disciple from the myriad worlds who spoke in favor of Lian Xi was essentially rendered speechless. For centuries, the child of disaster had been portrayed as the prime sin of humanity by the Three Immortals, with no chance of redemption.

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    These young people had grown up listening to tales of the Martial Emperor n''s wickedness. A fact universally acknowledged and documented in all educational texts! Now, because of one such child of disaster, the Primordial Academy had be the target of all!

    No matter how much respect some might have had for Lian Xi, even if the disciples weren''t narrow-minded, seeing the fiery wrath engulfing the Primordial Ruins, these ordinary disciples who were unclear of the whole situation began to fear.

    With the issuance of the second Sky Source Decree, aiding the child of disaster would mean desecrating even one''s ancestral graves! This was a world controlled by the Three Immortals. Who would dare?

    "We''re doomed! Lian Xi is going to be the death of us..."

    Panic spread throughout the Primordial Academy.

    It was then that the Mystic Zenith Temple issued a notice.

    "Disciples and Sacred Sages of the Primordial Academy, who are untainted by the child of disaster and wish to swear enmity against them,e forth to the Mystic Zenith Temple to prove your innocence. You have one day.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "At the stroke of midnight, anyone within the Academy who has not reported will be deemed an ally of the child of disaster, bearing the heavy sins of the Sky Source Decree, with no exceptions!"

    With the issuance of this promation from the Mystic Zenith Temple, the Primordial Academy was thrown into utter disarray.

    The phrase <em>no exceptions</em> clearly implicated even Dean Yu.

    At this moment, the Mystic Zenith Temple stood as the representative of the Three Immortals, offering a final opportunity to some and a final ultimatum to others.

    "Go now!" Instantly, people from all corners of the Primordial Academy, elders and disciples alike, rushed towards the Mystic Zenith Temple in a frenzy.

    "There''s only half a day left. If we don''t go to the Mystic Zenith Temple now, we''ll be branded as aplices of the child of disaster, bringing cmity to the world!"

    Panic covered their faces, their minds buzzing with urgency.

    "Stop spouting nonsense!" Ah Yao looked angrily at the crowd before him.

    Many of the disciples had been preparing to join him on a mission to the Blood Devil Ruins to y demons. Until this moment, they naturally supported Yun Xiao and Lian Xi. Now, their hearts trembled with fear.

    "What nonsense... Brother Yao, your father is a Sacred Sage of the Academy. If you can''t defeat the Three Immortals, you might still escape. But we nobodies hailing from myriad worlds would die unnoticed. How can you ask us to fight to the death?"

    Several of his normally close junior brothers stared at Ah Yao, bewildered.

    "If your family decides to die for a child of disaster, I have no objections. Everyone has the right to make their choice. But you can''t force us..." they said.

    "It''s not that..." Ah Yao said. A burly youth like him suddenly started shedding tears, then shook his head. "I''m not trying to stop you from going to the Mystic Zenith Temple. Ipletely understand that you can''t stand against the Three Immortals. But... can you please stop cursing Lian Xi? She''s such a good girl. You''ve interacted with her; don''t you know that?"

    His words silenced everyone. Indeed, they all knew Lian Xi well and respected her.

    "The whole world uses her of being a child of disaster. How do you expect us to judge? In these Primordial Ruins, we''re justmoners. Whom should we believe? We don''t know..." they said, lost.

    "Because we don''t know whom to trust, we must keep silent until the day the truth is revealed, to show her some respect..." Ah Yao said softly.

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    "Okay."

    Finally, they nodded in agreement. But, they also had to go to the Mystic Zenith Temple! One by one, his friends left.

    In the end, only a few remained by Ah Yao''s side.

    "Sigh." Ah Yao exhaled deeply. He knew that the Primordial Academy could never return to how it once was.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After the promation from the Mystic Zenith Temple was issued, aside from the Mystic Zenith Temple itself, the rest of the Primordial Academy had beenbeled a zone of sin.

    An hour after the promation, those who hadn''t entered the Mystic Zenith Temple were effectively branded as aplices of the child of disaster, bearing the stigma of a crime worthy of the extermination of nine generations of their family.

    At this moment, the Mystic Zenith Temple had gathered over ny percent of the people from the Primordial Academy! This number only highlighted one fact¡ªthe power and might of the Three Immortals were seen as insurmountable by the majority.

    In the choice between life and death, people voted with their feet. And so, the Primordial Academy, usually bustling, nowy deserted and declined, with scarcely anyone walking its grounds. It resembled the eve of an apocalypse.

    Take the Primordial Pagoda, for example! Before the incident at the Liu Manor, thousands had watched Lian Xi challenge the tenth level of the Primordial Treasure Pagoda.

    Now, only a group of people in white robes stood guard outside. They formed a circle, their expressions solemn, their eyes brimming with their own sense of greatness and glory.

    "To save the world and its people, they stand opposed to both the enemy and all of humanity, enduring nder and vicious attacks, dragging one drowning soul after another from the depths of despair... Such people are truly great." Yun Xiao stood in a corner far from the Primordial Pagoda, silently observing all this.

    This was what it meant for Lian Xi to be an incarnation of transcending cmity.

    The resolve in the eyes of these people in white robes had not changed.

    Yu Nichang and Yun Dahe had also visited, seeking to understand the situation from Lian Xi. Even though the stain on their reputation came unexpectedly, they did not me her, indicating they were mentally prepared for this day.

    Ny percent of the Primordial Academy had sought refuge in the Mystic Zenith Temple. Standing guard here, facing the shadow of the Three True Immortals, they walked against the tide of humanity, towards hell, in search of thest glimmer of light in the world!

    Lian Xi was thest light in their eyes. What they were doing was true greatness.

    Yun Xiao admired them deeply. He possessed many tricks and trump cards, but none of these people knew that. So, in essence, they had long prepared to face death for Lian Xi!

    This spirit of embracing death was far more steadfast than Yun Xiao''s own determination for Lian Xi.

    Yu Nichang and Yun Dahe, as they escorted Lian Xi to the Primordial Pagoda, had eyes shining with brilliance, eyes that held only her.

    "Do what you must, leave the rest to us," Yu Nichang said gently, touching her face.

    "Do we still have a chance to win?" Lian Xi asked, looking up.

    "As long as you are here, there is always hope," Yu Nichang said with a smile.

    "But I''m afraid of you dying." Lian Xi held her hand, her eyes brimming with tears.

    Yu Nichang paused for a moment, then shook her head softly. "It''s okay, we''re not important."

    After saying that, she stepped back, waved to Lian Xi, who looked back three times before finally entering the Primordial Pagoda.

    Yu Nichang took a deep breath and then turned around. What she needed to do was prepare for battle. They all knew that after being branded, the next steps from their adversaries wouldn''t take long.

    Neither the appearance of the Nian and True Devils nor Yun Xiao bing the eye of the storm had changed the Three Immortals'' determination and decisiveness to deal with Lian Xi!

    Now, as the storm loomed, she had stirred up the greatest tempest in 300 years! All eyes were on her. What could Yun Xiao do?

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    "Three Immortals Day is tomorrow; they''re likely to make a move. My original interrogation was the day after, making the only difference a day earlier for me," Yun Xiao looked down at himself. "One less day, but there''s a silver lining; no need to hide my edge anymore."

    It was time to unleash everything! Yun Xiao then sat down beneath the Primordial Pagoda, pulling out his Giant Bag of Holding, ready to indulge in a fierce battle to the end.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 447: Dreamsea Abalone

    Chapter 447: Dreamsea Abalone

    The first thing Yun Xiao retrieved was the Cmity Bones! To the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, devouring them posed no difficulty whatsoever.

    Yun Xiao held the three-inch azure Sword Soul in one hand and pulled out the first Cmity Bone from the Giant Bag of Holding with the other. It was a long spinal bone, resembling that of a dragon, colored in ice blue, with surging cold energy.

    "Time to feast." Yun Xiao held the Sword Soul, piercing it into the Cmity Bone, as the azure mist from the Heaven Burial Sword Soul continuously flowed into the bone.

    A hissing sound filled the air as the massive dragon bone quickly withered like dried grass, dimming before turning into powder. Its essence transformed into an azure Sword Aura, covering the surface of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, forming ayer on the sea of enhanced sword energy.

    One Cmity Bone, roughly within the span of two breaths, waspletely absorbed.

    Next, Yun Xiao proceeded to the next one. He consumed the treasures that would take others years to absorb one by one. Hundreds of Cmity Bones disappeared unnoticed!

    The white-robed figures were too focused on protecting Lian Xi to pay attention to Yun Xiao; otherwise, they might have questioned their existence.

    "The effect was good at the beginning, but less soter on," Yun Xiao muttered.

    With the first 50 Cmity Bones, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul quickly reached 2,000,000yers of Sword Aura. After consuming 70 more, it only increased to a total of 3,330,000yers!

    The Cmity Bones were of simr quality, so such a situation was normal. The increase in Sword Aura wasn''t just a simple numerical increase; it involved structural changes as well.

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    "I was too impatient. If I had known the effect would diminishter, I wouldn''t have devoured them all and saved some for the return to the Nine Hells," Yun Xiao said to himself.

    After devouring all the Cmity Bones, Yun Xiao held up the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to his face. In his hand, this Sword Soul, with 3,330,000yers of Sword Aura, formed a dense azure sword sea, prating inside and out.

    It appeared to be a sword, but in reality, it was a weapon of destruction. At least in the Primordial Ruins, Yun Xiao had yet to see a Sword Soul with a higher Sword Aurayer count than his own!

    "The destructive power is sufficient!"

    The wealth of the Immortal Jade Tower was astonishing. The Cmity Bones all benefited Yun Xiao, forging the current lethality of his Sword Soul. Others could not monopolize and absorb such treasures as he did.

    "Time to find a few Sword Rings."

    The Immortal Jade Tower also had a considerable number of Blood Crystal Sword Rings. Among them, there were over 10,000 Five Declines Sword Rings, covering various attributes. Above the Five Decays Sword Rings were the Yin Immortal Sword Rings.

    After surpassing the Five Decays or Five Cmities, one could be a Yin Immortal.

    Tian Chen, Jian Xing, and Lian Xi were all in the Yin Immortal Realm.

    The Yin Immortal Sword Rings were forged from the blood and bones of enormous demons who had reached the Yin Immortal Realm!

    Such Sword Rings, carrying a Yin Immortal demon''s lifetime of demonic power, were indeed formidable.

    Yun Xiao had around 500 Yin Immortal Sword Rings in his possession!

    Previously, during the Crown Selection, Can Nian bore seven Yin Immortal Sword Rings. After its wielder''s death, his father, the Drunken Mad Sword, even took the opportunity to collect them, highlighting the preciousness of these Yin Immortal Sword Rings.

    However, Yun Xiao chose not to use the Yin Immortal Sword Rings this time!

    "The Dao Heart enters the Fate Ocean, the Heaven Sanctuary births the Genesis Spirit, and the Sacred Wheel suppresses the Five Cmities, heralding the arrival of Yin and Yang!"

    This represented the eight realms of the Second Dao Tribtion, known as the Eight Dao Heart Realms.

    The key to the Second Dao Tribtion was in the birth and growth of the Dao Heart. Above the Yin Immortal was the Yang Immortal, also known as the True Yang Immortal.

    Demons also had Yang Immortals!

    And in Yun Xiao''s possession were the Sword Rings of the Jade Immortal Tower''s 33rd floor!

    The Sword Rings of the 33rd floor were renowned throughout the Primordial Ruins, rare treasures sought after by many, yet unaffordable to almost all!

    There were 10 of them in total, and they were all Yang Immortal Sword Rings!

    The rarity of the Yang Immortal Sword Rings was one thing, but what made them even more precious was that these ten Sword Rings were identical, all originating from a terrifying and unique demon from the Oblivion Demon Sea¡ªthe Dreamsea Abalone.

    The Dreamsea Abalones, also known as the Forgetful Illusion Immortals, belonged to an extremely rare bloodline of demons, possessing powerful illusionary abilities. The Oblivion Demon Sea, originally a dark and gloomy ce, was transformed into a splendid divine realm by the Dreamsea Abalones.

    Each individual lived within the illusionary realm, turning the false into the true, exemplifying the true terror of the Dreamsea Abalone.

    These ten Dreamsea Abalone Sword Rings contained their most core demon magic, Forgetful Illusionary Dream. The illusionary dreams, far from conflicting with each other, actually had a cumtive effect.

    "Demon magics, when used to assist or create illusions, can actually enhance the lethality of the Sword Soul. So, the Sword Cultivators of the Primordial Ruins believe that seven Dreamsea Abalone Sword Rings is the most perfect Sword Ring configuration."

    Holding the ten Dreamsea Abalone Sword Rings, Yun Xiao felt a slight sense of wonder.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The Dreamsea Abalone Sword Rings, like pearls of white jade, emitted a misty white fog. Each ring shimmered with light, as if it contained a real yet illusory world. Even a brief nce from Yun Xiao brought feelings of joy, longing, and the temptation to plunge into them.

    With a series of clicks, Yun Xiao didn''t hesitate to attach the ten Yang Immortal Sword Rings onto the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    Enveloped in a white mist, the ferocity of the azure sword sea was concealed, transforming Heaven Burial, a symbol of death and ughter, into what seemed to be an instrument of salvation for all beings, gentle and warm.

    "Perfect." Yun Xiao brushed the de lightly.

    At this moment, d in white with his ck hair, Yun Xiao resembled a true Immortal above the clouds. Amidst the swirling snow fog, it seemed as if ten graceful dancing maidens, d in sheer white silk, were performing a light and elegant dance around him. Their beautiful movements were enchantingly visible one moment and hidden the next.

    "Life is but a fleeting dream, and the most beautiful ones are those we wish would never end. To be immersed in an eternal dream without awakening, that would be a joy in itself," Yun Xiao mused softly.

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    Certainly, it was far better than the sea of suffering that was human life.

    The Dreamsea Abalones were the overlords of the Oblivion Demon Sea, transforming what was once a ferocious and brutal battleground for numerous demons into a harmonious paradise where all could revel in pleasure.

    Everyone said the demons of the Oblivion Demon Sea were foolish, yet they lived joyfully. Illusions changed a world.

    "The Sword Soul upgrade isplete." Yun Xiao couldn''t afford to be lost in illusions. He had many more skills to enhance. So, he retracted the Sword Soul and summoned the Prison Warden Life Sigil from his brow.

    "Without a Life Sigil to absorb, increasing the Runes will have to rely on my own drawing skills."

    This wasn''t difficult for Yun Xiao. All he needed was a Rune Pen, nts and precious fruits to serve as Rune Spirit Ink, and apendium of miniature formations to copy. Drawing the formations himself also helped polish his abilities in this area, making it easier to extend to the domain of spell formations in the future.

    "The best Rune Pens are avable at the Jade Immortal Tower, as well as a vast amount of Spirit Ink. What¡¯s missing is an inscriptionpendium."

    Inscriptionpendiums recorded various small formations, simr to daoist spells and sword techniques, and were considered secret knowledge notmonly sold. Those that were sold were not the best.

    As Yun Xiao was wracking his brains around the problem, Feng Qincong was walking over to the Primordial Pagoda.

    Yun Xiao approached him and called out, "Senior Feng."

    Feng Qingcong''s eyes appeared weary with the passage of time as he gazed at the Primordial Pagoda. He came over after hearing Yun Xiao, the genius who had restored the Pr Yin-Yang Chess.

    "Yun Xiao, don¡¯t you n to flee for your life?" Feng Qingcong asked.

    He had initially thought the cmity at the Pathseeker Pce and Jade Immortal Tower was caused by this youth, and was shocked for a long time, only toter find out it wasn''t.

    "Me? Impossible," Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Adversity reveals true friendship. You and Lian Xi truly share a deep bond," Feng Qingcong remarked with emotion.

    Yun Xiao didn''t want to dwell on sentiments. He directly asked, "Senior Feng, I need some inscriptionpendiums, the higher their level, the better."

    Feng Qingcong was an Inscription Cultivator and also in charge of the Merit Arena. Aside from him, Yun Xiao didn''t know whom else to turn to.

    "Inscriptionpendiums?"

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded. "At a time like this, surely the Academy''s scriptures don''t still require Merit Points to ess, right?"

    "Indeed, they don''t. Everything''s in disarray; the Primordial Academy is practically in name only," Feng Qingcong replied with a bitter smile, then said, "The problem is, at the onset of the incident, people from the Mystic Zenith Temple were the first to arrive at the Merit Arena. Under the guise of preserving the Primordial Academy''s legacy, they moved all our inherited sword techniques, daoist spells, and inscriptionpendiums to the Mystic Zenith Temple."

    "No way?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "Our focus was entirely on protecting Lian Xi, giving them the opportunity to steal everything right under our noses. There''s nothing we can do," Feng Qingcong said helplessly.

    "Are they still at the Mystic Zenith Temple?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "The Temple Head has returned to support the overall situation. The Mystic Zenith Temple, under the banner of righteousness, provides a protective umbre for the Academy''s disciples and Sacred Sages; of course, they won''t leave." Feng Qingcong sighed.

    Now, the Mystic Zenith Temple was considered the orthodox lineage of the Primordial Academy; all others were seen as refugees or evil fiends.

    "These daoist spells and inheritances are quite important. If they were to be destroyed, even if we win in the end, the efforts of many ancestors would be lost. Doesn''t Dean Yu n to directly reim them?" Yun Xiao asked quietly.

    "It''s difficult," Feng Qingcong said.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao didn''t understand. Logically, their strength should be greater than that of the Mystic Zenith Temple.

    "First, most of us need to stay here to protect Lian Xi. Second, the Mystic Zenith Temple has gathered arge number of ordinary disciples from the myriad worlds, who are innocent. If we act against the Mystic Zenith Temple, it''s easy to harm them. If the other side uses this incident to incite anger among the residents of the Primordial Ruins, and the popce is driven to attack the Primordial Academy,pelling us with their lives, many will die¡­" Feng Qingcong expressed his helplessness.

    They weren''t afraid of dying themselves; they feared being coerced by the lives of the masses.

    "Our only option is to protect the Primordial Pagoda and Lian Xi at all costs. Beyond that, we are powerless." Feng Qingcong shook his head.

    "I understand." Yun Xiao took a deep breath. "So, if I still want to learn some daoist spells or sword techniques, there''s no chance?"

    "For the time being, it''s very difficult," Feng Qingcong said.

    "How is the situation at the Mystic Zenith Temple?" Yun Xiao asked again.

    "Many descendants of the Three Immortals have arrived, strengthening defenses and dividing us from the other Sacred Sages and disciples. They''re probably going to train them in the Ascension Technique," Feng Qingcong noted. From his tone, Yun Xiao could tell they were aware of the significant problems with this practice.

    "How is Lian Xi''s progress?" Yun Xiao quickly moved on to another question.

    "What progress?" Feng Qingcong was momentarily confused.

    "The progress of merging with the pagoda," Yun Xiao rified.

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    "You know about that?" Feng Qingcong was surprised, finding Yun Xiao''s involvement had grown significantly. He then said, "As for the progress, it''s going smoothly. It could be tomorrow, or the day after. Once sessful, no matter where she goes, she can take the pagoda with her, making it harder for her life to be cut short..."

    "I understand," Yun Xiao pondered for a moment, then asked one final question. "Are the Three Immortals afraid of the Primordial Pagoda?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 448: A Furnace of Righteousness!

    Chapter 448: A Furnace of Righteousness!

    "Yes." Feng Qingcong nodded.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I''m not entirely sure myself. It''s been passed down from my ancestors. They say that after the demise of the Martial Emperor n, the Three Immortals wanted to abolish the Primordial Academy. But they failed; otherwise, it would have been devoured long ago. How could it havested until now?" Feng Qingcong exined.

    "This also shows that the Three Immortals'' control over all beings is not wless..." Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Indeed! But it''s still unknown where their weakness lies." Feng Qingcong shook his head.

    "I''ll take my leave first, thank you, Senior Feng, for clearing up my confusion." Without saying more, Yun Xiao gave a respectful bow to Feng Qingcong and then returned to his seat.

    "Do you n to go to the Mystic Zenith Temple alone?" Blue Star asked, popping up.

    Yun Xiao nced at the sky and said, "It''s still noon. I''ll add a bit more to my resources and wait until it gets dark."

    "Hehe." Blue Star chuckled. In the darkness of the night, a killing god was about to enter the scene.

    Yun Xiao sat cross-legged on the ground. He had intended to increase his Runes, but without an inscriptionpendium, he had to give up for the time being.

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    "First, increase my cultivation," Yun Xiao said. Looking in at his Dantian from the viewpoint of his Genesis Spirit, he circted the primordial Sacred Wheel beneath him, with the sacred power flowing through.

    Time passed as the artificial sun in the sky moved to the west, about to <em>set sail</em>, while in the direction of the eastern bow of the divine ark, a silver moon was rising, its silver moonlight beginning to sprinkle across the Primordial Ruins.

    "A two-stage breakthrough, reaching the Establishment Sacred Wheel Realm!"

    Inside Yun Xiao''s Dantian, the primordial Sacred Wheel had grown to its limit. A vast power shook his entire body!

    The Primordial Martial Furnaces in his body were also being strengthened in the forging process,plementing the Nine Suns Dantian, raising Yun Xiao''s power even more.

    "Five Decays Realm, huh? The air has that vor." Yun Xiao stood up, sniffing slightly. The air seemed to carry a more solemn and deadly aura. "The Five Decays Realm, half die with each decline? I wonder if I will die..."

    He looked at the Primordial Pagoda. The pagoda''s light was gentle, like a flower in a world of chaos.

    "Lian Xi, wait for me to return." Yun Xiao finished speaking and quietly left the area.

    Now, in the Primordial Ruins, it seemed no one paid him any more mind. The Primordial Academy at night was devoid of any figures! In the span of a day, it was as if everyone had evaporated on the spot! Only the moon in the sky, casting a ghostly glow, stretched Yun Xiao''s shadow long.

    Looking around, only the Mystic Zenith Temple ahead still had lights symbolizing righteousness, with an oppressive heat wave emanating from it, like a furnace of righteousness.

    Yun Xiao stood in the wind, his brow suddenly furrowing.

    "Why not go in?" Blue Star asked, noticing his odd demeanor.

    "The War Princess has encountered the Human Zenith Immortal," Yun Xiao replied.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    It was nighttime in the Blood Devil Ruins!

    Under the heavens, endless rotten, thick ck blood formed boundless blood marshes, emitting towering resentment.

    Surrounding the Blood Devil Ruins were all sorts of evil spirits and ghosts. Dense blood fog rose, blocking the sun, significantly affecting the lives and cultivation of many people in the surrounding worlds.

    This was and of death and gloom, where the mournful wind seemed to carry the cries of a whole n.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, countless storms spiraled towards the sky, the blood color staining the heavens and earth.

    Above that vast sky, a figure in a gold and ck robe floated, blood wind lifting his hair, his face hidden behind a sea of swords, revealing only his cold sharpness.

    <em>HUM! </em>He suddenly pointed his finger! A hundred-meter long sword light suddenly pierced into the ck blood sea, exploding into endless blood waves.

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    Within the blood sea, a slender and explosive blood mist phantom with dark red eyes looked towards the sky, her lithe body nimbly shifting, dodging this sword!

    "Little witch," the figure high above said with a tone of teasing and curiosity, pressing down.

    The blood mist phantom scoffed, dispersing into the blood sea and disappearing in an instant.

    "You can''t run."

    "This guy is truly terrifying. The underground rockyers beneath the Blood Devil Ruins have been shattered, with lots of magma emerging, mixing with the devil blood..."

    Gradually, the Blood Devil Ruins seemed to ignite, the solidified ck blood turning into boiling red streams. Solid turned to liquid! As a result, the efficiency of Yun Xiao''s absorption of the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity increased tenfold.

    "We have him to thank for this," Yun Xiao said.

    "Whatever." The War Princess looked down towards the subterranean rockyers, where deep in the magma, a streak of blood light seemed to sh by.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Nothing, must have been my imagination."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Mystic Zenith Temple, the Square of Righteous Law¡­. Over a hundred thousand people, both students and Sacred Sages of the Primordial Academy, gathered here! They sat on the ground, neatly arranged.

    On a high tform, a red-robed woman and about twenty Dharma Crowns presided, each with a solemn gaze.

    In front of them, there was arge cauldron!

    Inside the cauldron was a liquid resembling milk, currently emitting white vapor that spread across the square with the wind, making the scene dreamlike under the illumination ofnterns and the moon. The expressions of the 100,000 seated individuals softened, immersed infort.

    "Everyone," the red-robed woman suddenly spoke.

    Over 100,000 people looked up simultaneously. Each young face was filled with peace.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "You are the young generation, the pirs of the future across all worlds! The Three Immortals have high hopes for you. And so, the Heavenly Order Temple has sent a true paragon of righteousness to our Mystic Zenith Temple, to personally teach you the Ascension Technique!" The red-robed woman pointed with her hand.

    A golden-ck sword light descended from the sky!

    "Jian Xing!" His name sent a ripple through the Mystic Zenith Temple.

    A youth in ck and gold robes arrived. His Sword Soul appeared to be repaired from the damage Lian Xi dealt earlier in the day.

    "Fellow brothers and sisters, I am Jian Xing, greetings to you all," the youth said with a smile, his approachability astonishing.

    Under the mist, over 100,000 disciples of the academy responded with smiles.

    "No matter how high one''s talent is, if they be a fiend, they are a disaster for the people..."

    Looking at Jian Xing, they couldn''t help but think of Lian Xi and sighed.

    "Let''s begin!" the red-robed woman said to Jian Xing before descending with the other Dharma Crowns.

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    Only Jian Xing remained on the tform. He cleared his throat, about to begin his performance. But suddenly, an azure sword light fell from the sky,nding beside him.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    But suddenly, an azure sword light fell from the sky,nding beside him.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 449: Yun Xiao Goes Where He Pleases!

    Chapter 449: Yun Xiao Goes Where He Pleases!

    "It''s Yun Xiao!"

    "Yun Xiao, the Dharma Crown!"

    Upon seeing the young man in white, the over 100,000 people in the square burst out in shock. Originally seated, they all suddenly stood up in amotion.

    The dense crowd looked towards Yun Xiao, who had unexpectedly appeared, with eyes full of astonishment and confusion. This wee and enthusiasm was at least 100 times greater than that of Jian Xing.

    "Lian Xi is a child of disaster. How could Yun Xiao, her boyfriend,e here alone?" The disciples of the Primordial Academy started whispering among themselves with peculiar expressions.

    "Could he be a spy ced by the Three Immortals beside the child of disaster, now here to teach us the Ascension Technique?" someone spected with a spark of inspiration.

    "That''s unlikely..." a twelve-year-old boy in ck said. His name was Yue Molin, and he had entered the Primordial Academy in the same period as Yun Xiao.

    During the third round of the entrance examination, Yue Molin and Yun Xiao were in the same group. After being hit by the Life-Burning Gu, Yun Xiao killed Song Bomei and the Queen Gu, saving his life.

    It was he who exined to Yun Xiao that types C and D could not be killed. Because of that interaction, this inconspicuous genius from the myriad worlds, now standing among the crowd, was certain that Yun Xiao couldn''t possibly be here to teach the Ascension Technique!

    Like most talents who came to the Primordial Academy from the myriad worlds, they had no choice but toe to the Mystic Zenith Temple to prove their innocence after the temple issued a promation, in order not to involve their ns.

    Unexpectedly, Yun Xiao appeared here at night!

    Many instinctively called Yun Xiao a Dharma Crown, showing that despite everything that had happened, they still subconsciously revered him!

    Descendants of the Three Immortals and members of the Pathseeker Society, relying on their backgrounds and talents, bullied both men and women,wlessly. Having experienced this firsthand, how could they not know who was good and who was evil?

    "It''s him..."

    Among the crowd were groups of young and beautiful girls. Lil Xiu was one of them. Together with the other girls, she was momentarily breathless. She clenched her fists as she gazed at the young man in white, her back tense with sweat.

    During the selection for a new Dharma Crown, Yun Xiao had killed three presidents for their sake. She would never forget the words that he had told her, that not everyone got a tomorrow!

    Following that, over 100 members of the Pathseeker Society died! She had thought that Yun Xiao was the one responsible¡­

    In the hearts of these girls, this young man in white was a hero who killed without shedding blood! He was hot-tempered and fierce, yet he despised evil and stood up for the weak and the just.

    At this moment, the entire world was condemning him and Lian Xi, calling them the most brutal and dangerous fiends, criminals poisoning the lives of the innocent! Yet, in their hearts, as well as in the hearts of many children like Yue Molin, there still lingered a ray of light.

    The tension in their hearts when Yun Xiao appeared here said everything¡­

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The red-robed woman and over 20 Dharma Crowns had just taken their seats but all stood up, their gazes coldly fixed on Yun Xiao.

    "Check for others around! See who''s protecting him," the red-robed woman whispered.

    Around the walls of the Mystic Zenith Temple, cultivators in heavy armor appeared. They had arrived with Jian Xing, all members of the ck Battalion

    Their numbers reached tens of thousands! It was also worth noting that the ck Battalion, ranking above the Primordial Guards, had a very high average level and was exclusively for descendants of the Three Immortals!

    Tens of thousands of heavy-armored warriors, divided into Sword Cultivators, Martial Cultivators, and Inscription Cultivators, nearly sealed off the Mystic Zenith Temple... These ck Battalion cultivators were all here to guard the temple.

    Leading these tens of thousands from the ck Battalion were ten top Manor Masters. The Mysterious Sword Manor Master was among them. He was the father of Primordial Son Huyan Luo and Huyan Pin.

    "It''s just him. No one else is protecting him." The Mysterious Sword Manor Master frowned, expressing his confusion.

    "Just him alone?"

    Hearing this, the descendants of the Three Immortals present wore even more peculiar expressions.

    "Is he slow to react, not realizing that it''s already a moment of dire enmity?" one of the Dharma Crowns sneered coldly.

    "He doesn''t seem like a fool." The red-robed woman stepped forward. "I''ll deal with him directly to avoid prolonged trouble."

    "Let Jian Xing handle it. He has his own ideas." The Mysterious Sword Manor Master cast a nce at the red-robed woman.

    She understood his meaning. During the day, Jian Xing''sbined forces were crushed by Lian Xi alone, dealing a heavy blow to his pride and leaving all descendants of the Three Immortals feeling uneasy.

    This was the only difort they felt today! As elders, they could clearly see that Jian Xing was overshadowed once again... he wanted to regain his spotlight.

    On the high tform, Jian Xing, dressed in a ck robe, with hair flowing loosely, looking somewhat dashing, raised an eyebrow at Yun Xiao and asked, "Young brother, let me ask you a question. ying with disaster, does it hurt your hand?"

    "More thrilling than ying with your mother," Yun Xiao replied.

    Jian Xing was momentarily taken aback.

    "Die!" His eyes suddenly erupted with towering murderous intent, as the Emperor Star Sword Soul pierced forth from his hand.

    <em>KLANG! </em>The tens of thousands of ck Battalion cultivators took a step forward, an endless pressure enveloping Yun Xiao from all sides like a vast sea.

    "Nobody move. He''s asking for it. I''ll oblige him," Jian Xing said coldly.

    Then, the tens of thousands of onlookers realized they were witnessing a showdown, as over 20,000 cold, killing gazes almostpletely sealed off any chance for Yun Xiao to escape.

    "Yun Xiao..."

    More than 100,000 disciples from the Primordial Academy watched with pounding hearts as the situation escted without warning.

    In the center of everyone''s attention, Jian Xing took a step forward, his Sword Soul whistling with over 800,000yers of Sword Aura. The power of a Yin Immortal swept through him, conjuring a gigantic shadowy figure behind him as if the Human Zenith Immortal himself had arrived to support him from behind!

    "A mere insect. I actually thought you were behind the incidents at the Pathseeker Pce and Jade Immortal Tower, haha."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Before the True Devil of the Blood Devil Ruins appeared, Jian Xing was actually worried that the Primordial Academy had produced another monster that could suppress him and Tian Chen.

    After finishing his words, Jian Xing gripped the Emperor Star Sword Soul, leaped forward, andunched a ferocious attack at Yun Xiao!

    His sword was wrapped in a ming wreath of stars. His sword bore seven Sword Rings, even including a Yang Immortal Sword Ring!

    Seven demon magics enhanced the lethal power of his sword, aiming directly at Yun Xiao''s forehead.

    "A prodigy of the righteous path?" From beginning to end, Yun Xiao regarded him with an utterly indifferent gaze.

    As Jian Xing made his move, Yun Xiao responded in kind! His response was swift and decisive!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>An azure Flying Sword shed out.

    <em>Primordial Triforce Sword Art, Unparalleled Sword Dao!</em>

    <em>HUM! </em>The azure light shed too quickly to see clearly. Yet, over 100,000 disciples from the Primordial Academy seemed to glimpse a fleeting white, illusory world!

    "Uh¡­" Jian Xing suddenly stopped mid-air, his eyes wide open, shifting colors in his pallid eyes as if struck dumb. He reached out, murmuring towards the front. "Mom¡­"

    <em>PUFF! </em>Instead of embracing his mother, he was met with a sh of azure light.

    That azure light pierced into his left eye, circled inside his head, precisely splitting his brain into two halves, then exited through his right eye, returning to Yun Xiao''s hand without a trace of blood!

    "Dad¡­" Jian Xing, reaching out, stared nkly at Yun Xiao, stumbled forward a few steps, and then copsed to the ground right before Yun Xiao.

    <em>THUD! </em>Shattered eyeballs, brain matter, and blood flowed from his sockets to the earth.

    "I have no son as foolish as you."

 Chapter 450: The Red-Robed Woman, a Human-Devil Hybrid!

    Chapter 450: The Red-Robed Woman, a Human-Devil Hybrid!

    In Yun Xiao''s icy demeanor, a faint smile finally emerged. Yet, it was a cold one.

    As for Jian Xing, appearing unharmed apart from his eyes, he was truly brain-dead. Dead beyond dead. This was a true duel between Sword Cultivators, where death often happened in an instant!

    The illusion of ten Dreamsea Abalones, 3,330,000yers of Sword Aura,bined with Yun Xiao''s sacred power and Primordial Martial Furnaces, which wasparable to the Five Decays Realm... There was no way Jian Xing could possibly defend!

    It all happened too quickly, so quickly that not a single person in the Mystic Zenith Temple could react.

    Over 100,000 disciples of the Primordial Academy were stunned into silence.

    The Temple Head, Mysterious Sword Manor Master, Dharma Crowns, and the warriors of the ck Battalion were frozen on the spot, theirplexions gradually turning pale.

    Eventually, the entire Mystic Zenith Temple was silent as a graveyard.

    "Take a good look, everyone." Yun Xiao extended the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand, turning it into a three-foot azure de.

    <em>HUM! </em>Over 3,000,000yers of Sword Aura swept out, transforming into a vast sea of sword energy, whistling around the long sword.

    Atop it, ten Sword Rings, like white pearls, shone like the snowy moonlight on the azure sea of swords,peting for brilliance and creating an illusory world.

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    Yun Xiao, beneath the dreamy light, d in white, stood ethereal as a celestial being.

    "This Sword Aura, it must be over 3,000,000yers¡­" Lil Xiu covered her lips with her hand, grabbing the arm of a girl next to her, eximing in disbelief.

    "T-ten Sword Rings!" Yue Molin yelled out loud, eyes wide with excitement, jumping up.

    A Sword Immortal with eight Sword Rings reaching the heavens?

    Lian Xi once said, if anyone possessed eight Sword Rings, they would be deemed a heretic, unbelievable to others, a capital offense.

    Now, ten Sword Rings were shining openly! And they were all Yang Immortal Sword Rings.

    In the silence that followed at the Mystic Zenith Temple, it erupted at that moment. Over 100,000 people watched Yun Xiao with trembling eyes, their chests as if on fire, burning so intensely that none could speak.

    However, in the minds of most, numerous terrifying possibilities shed through.

    "Such high-level Sword Aura requires a massive amount of Cmity Bones to achieve, and those ten Dreamsea Abalone Sword Rings¡­" The red-robed woman''s dark eyes nearly dripped blood.

    The nearby Manor Masters and Dharma Crowns all turned their gaze towards her!

    A ce emerged in everyone''s mind simultaneously¡ªthe Jade Immortal Tower!

    "Isn''t there a True Devil in the Blood Devil Ruins? How could the treasures of the Jade Immortal Tower end up in his hands?" The Mysterious Sword Manor Master said coldly.

    On the tform, Yun Xiao nced at him and cheerfully said, "Simple, what happened at the Pathseeker Pce and Jade Immortal Tower were my doing."

    "What is your rtionship with the True Devil of the Blood Devil Ruins?" the Mysterious Sword Manor Master asked.

    "The rtionship between someone framing and someone being framed," Yun Xiao said with joy.

    "You''ve sessfully framed others, why admit to your crimes today?" the Mysterious Sword Manor Master asked again.

    "Because I couldn''t hold it in anymore, I wanted to clear the air," Yun Xiaoughed, then looked at the Mysterious Sword Manor Master, "Are you satisfied with this answer?"

    As they conversed, tens of thousands of ck Battalion cultivators had already surrounded the Mystic Zenith Temple so tightly that not even a mosquito could escape. The red-robed woman, ten Manor Masters, and over 20 Dharma Crowns had all arrived below the high tform!

    Killing Jian Xing had put Yun Xiao in a situation with no escape.

    However, even the red-robed woman had to admit that the strength Yun Xiao disyed at this moment was no longer at the level of a genius, but that of a powerhouse.

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    She couldn''t understand how Yun Xiao''s strength had soared in just three to four days. Such speed had exceeded her understanding; even if she were told the truth, she wouldn''t believe it.

    "Want to kill me?" Yun Xiao smiled, though his gaze was dangerous.

    "You and Lian Xi are the same, ants who cannot escape their fate, it''s only a matter of time," the red-robed woman said.

    "Is that so? Then let me do one more thing for this bright world." Yun Xiao stepped back a few paces.

    He came next to arge cauldron. The cauldron was enveloped in mist. It released a mist that had already swept over the Mystic Zenith Temple, hovering over everyone''s heads.

    "This thing is called the All-Life Devouring Gu. It has already dispersed into the air. Once you cultivate and ascend, you will inhale it into your body. It will enter your brain, apany your soul at all times, hypnotizing you constantly, making you regard the Three Immortals as True Immortals who protect the Dao in the human world, when in fact, they are but Evil Cultivators raising Gu.

    "The Martial Emperor n never harvested the hearts of young girls for cultivation. The transformation from the Five Cmities to the Five Decays is not something humans can change, but it''s rted to the mixing of nefarious forces with Yin and Yang. The Three Immortals took advantage of the Martial Emperor n''s post-war losses to seize the fruits of victory and rewrite history. Over these three hundred years, they forced all cultivators in the Primordial Ruins to practice the Ascension Technique, while they siphoned off your power of belief!"

    Yun Xiao finished speaking with a clear tone. After finishing, he smiled and faced the over 100,000 disciples of the Primordial Academy.

    They were thest <em>sacrednd</em> in the Primordial Ruins.

    "You may nder the Three Immortals all you want, but no one will believe the words of someone who associates with devils and a child of disaster." The red-robed womanughed.

    "I know." After saying this, Yun Xiao kicked over the cauldron, spilling its white liquid contents, which sizzled as they evaporated into the air.

    He continued, "I''m merely offering everyone an alternative perspective, to understand that this world isplex. Don''t blindly believe in any one person or thing. All sorts of evils roam the human world, and the truth is like a young child abused by those in power, forced to take whatever shape they desire."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    These words,bined with the truth he had spoken earlier, plunged the Primordial Academy disciples into a state of shock and fear. They dared not utter a word. Some believed, others did not.

    Yue Molin and Lil Xiu believed that the truth was often more terrifying than one''s imagination, leaving them struggling to breathe. Those who didn''t believe had their reasons, shaped by their own experiences that made them trust the Three Immortals.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t force anyone. He only wished to speak to those who believed in him, stating that practicing the Ascension Technique required active cultivation. If they heeded his advice, then his goal would be achieved.

    "We can''t let him spout nonsense any longer," a Manor Master whispered.

    "Deal with him," the Mysterious Sword Manor Master added.

    "I''ll do it." The red-robed woman, not wanting further losses, decided to take action herself.

    She ascended the tform, approaching Yun Xiao.

    The red-robed woman, shrouded in blood mist that condensed into blood-colored bats roaming the ground, removed her cloak for the first time in front of Yun Xiao.

    Revealed to Yun Xiao was a woman with ck hair and red eyes, her long hair reaching her waist, her face bewitchingly beautiful, a true femme fatale, especially with a teardrop mole adding to her allure.

    "Wow, look at this. Pot calling the kettle ck. Turns out, you''re a devil yourself," Yun Xiao said with amusement.

    Indeed, the red-robed woman was not a pure descendant of the Three Immortals. She was a mix, part human, part devil, with lineages of both Sword Cultivator and Inscription Cultivator in her veins. Somewhat simr to Yun Xiao''s own methods.

    How she came into being, Yun Xiao did not know, nor was he particrly interested.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The red-robed woman''s power surged, her Yin Immortal power wrapping around her. She was at least in the Perfect Yin Immortal Realm!

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    This force waspletely overwhelming Yun Xiao.

    However, under this terrifying pressure, Yun Xiao nced at her coldly. "Just you? Not enough. Manor Masters, Dharma Crowns, ck Battalion, all of you,e at once!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 451: To Kill You, One Sword is Enough

    Chapter 451: To Kill You, One Sword is Enough

    "Attack together?"

    "Such arrogance knows no bounds..."

    Tens of thousands of Mystic Zenith Temple cultivators hovered in the air, forming a vast, iron of daoist spells.

    "Not even 100 Lian Xis would dare to speak such grand words in our presence, how dare he?" The Mysterious Sword Manor Master sneered coldly.

    All ten Manor Masters were at the Yin Immortal Realm, boasting lifespans of several hundred years. Each of them was stronger than Jian Xing!

    Most of the twenty Dharma Crowns were also Yin Immortals!

    Within the ranks of the ck Battalion, there were also 100 captains in the Yin Immortal Realm!

    These were the true elite among the descendants of the Three Immortals! They formed the coreyer of the Primordial Ruins'' authoritative institution.

    Not to mention these Yin Immortals¡­ If the tens of thousands of cultivators from the ck Battalion were to attack one person at the same time, they could easily annihte that person into dust!

    "You are responsible for blocking any of that little fiend''s followers!" the red-robed woman said, her red eyes locking onto Yun Xiao.

    "Yes!"

    At least half of the ck Battalion turned, casting daoist spells to survey the surroundings of the Mystic Zenith Temple.

    The death of Jian Xing here was their responsibility. If they couldn''t seize Yun Xiao on such a great opportunity, they would have no way to exin themselves to the Three Immortals!

    "Now we just need to be wary of Yu Nichang and othersing to rescue Yun Xiao. So, keeping watch is even more important," the Mysterious Sword Manor Master said coldly.

    Despite saying so, they were also paying attention to the process of the red-robed woman capturing Yun Xiao. Now fully concentrated, even if there were any changes, they could act in time.

    "Li Hongpaoes from beyond the myriad worlds. Her parents are said to be friends of the Three Immortals, with a mysterious background. Skilled in both sword and sigil cultivation, her methods are said to be astonishing, yet we never had the chance to witness them... Today, we finally have the privilege to see her techniques."

    A few Manor Masters gathered together, their eyes filled with anticipation.

    More than 100,000 disciples of the Primordial Academy were suffocating for a long time, their minds in turmoil! The confusion and worry in their eyes contrasted sharply with the cold indifference in the eyes of the descendants of the Three Immortals.

    Being worried for Yun Xiao meant that their hearts were still pure¡­ For Yun Xiao, that was enough! The fight was worth it!

    Facing the red-robed woman, his expression was disdainful, but his heart was not the slightest bit rxed.

    In his hand, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, with over 3,000,000yers of Sword Aura, emitted a whistling sword cry. The ten Dreamsea Abalone Sword Rings enveloped in mist created an illusory world around Yun Xiao, where light flickered and tides surged.

    "Ten Sword Rings... Are you using the demon magic of the Dreamsea Abalone to add three more fake Sword Rings?" The red-robed woman asked, her dark red beautiful eyes flickered with a dim light.

    "If that exnation makes you feel better, then you''re right," Yun Xiao said.

    "Heh... How interesting." The red-robed woman spoke as she opened her hands. A blood bat flowed from her brow to her left hand, forming a blood-red bat Life Sigil with wings spread, perched on the back of her hand. Meanwhile, her right hand birthed a Sword Soul!

    This Sword Soul was blood-colored throughout, resembling a sea of blood with ck blood strands spread across it, forming a of darkness over the blood sword.

    A staggering 2,000,000yers of blood-colored Sword Aura surged within and around this blood sword, weaving into a torrent of ck and red sword currents, presenting a breath-stopping aura of deathly stillness, eeriness, and lethal force.

    "Sword Soul, Life Sigil, both are of the highest Yang grade, the very top tier. Just below the Three Immortals."

    "The Blood Child Sword Soul, Red Flurry Life Sigil. Both are special types never seen before in the history of the Primordial Ruins."

    "Is it said that she''s under thirty? Around 28 years old, at her most enchanting age..."

    "I''ve never seen her without the cloak before, didn¡¯t expect her to be so captivating."

    A few Manor Masters nced at the red-robed woman with somewhat fervent eyes, then exchanged looks, each harboring a hint of a special interest.

    "With devil lineage, her figure can¡¯t be wed, truly exquisite..."

    "Enough," the Mysterious Sword Manor Master whispered a reminder. "It¡¯s said she was close to our ancient ancestors."

    "Understood!" The Manor Masters quickly shut their mouths, daring not to utter another word. They all returned to a solemn state, concentrating on Yun Xiao and the red-robed woman. If looks could build walls, they would have sealed Yun Xiao a thousand times over.

    "Where is your Life Sigil?" the red-robed woman asked, slightly lifting her delicate chin, her elegant nose pointing towards Yun Xiao.

    It seemed she was keen onparing their abilities in dual cultivation of sword and sigil.

    "To kill you, one sword is enough," Yun Xiao dered, pointing his sword at the red-robed woman.

    Hearing this, the red-robed woman¡¯s eyebrows knitted together deeply! She had no patience left.

    "Let''s see the action, not just words in a duel of Immortals."

    The red-robed woman suddenly moved, her Blood Child Sword Soul emitted a piercing screech. The blood-colored sword light flickered, and the Sword Soul transformed into a three-foot crimson Palm Sword, her figure like a shadow of blood, charging towards Yun Xiao!

    "Blood Strand Sword Prison!"

    A gasp of amazement sounded from around, naming the technique the red-robed woman was using at the moment.

    A Palm Sword technique that could evoke astonishment from the Manor Masters and Dharma Crowns, how could it be anything less than extraordinary?

    The red-robed woman, tall and imposing, wielded her sword with swift grace. With every thrust of her Blood Child Sword Soul, it seemed as though numerous blood strands spread from the Sword Soul, instantly forming a vast swordposed of bloodlines!

    <em>RIP! </em>The red-robed woman''s attack was not just a sword strike but a blood-colored hell that covered the skies and earth, pervading everything, locking onto every vital spot around Yun Xiao!

    In the moment of the sword dance, the divine might of the sword, augmented by demon magic, made Yun Xiao feel as if he were standing in a sea of blood. His ears were filled with the wails and howls of tens of thousands of ghosts, while before him, the blood strands formed a giant blood-colored eye that seemed to pull at his soul!

    Such a solemn sword strike, executed so perfectly, its power once again caused the Mystic Zenith Temple to emit a tremulous cheer.

    This showed their admiration and worship for the red-robed woman''s sword strike!

    Under this blood-colored hellish sword, as the Mysterious Sword Manor Master and others said, even if it were Lian Xi, she would die ten times over!

    What chance of survival did Yun Xiao have?

    Amidst the surging blood and fire, Yun Xiao appeared as calm as an icy sea.

    As the red-robed woman made her move, he did too! He grasped five Sword Hearts between his fingers and flung them into the air. Then, he swept his sword across.

    <em>SLASH, SLASH, SLASH¡­ </em>With five consecutive clear sounds, these five Sword Hearts were all bisected.

    Yet strangely, they didn''t explode directly but turned into dark azure storms of sword energy, furiously surging into the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    Throughout this process, Yun Xiao did not look at the sword in his hand. His eyes were filled with dense blood strands!

    This was actually the reflection of the Blood Strand Sword Prison before him...

    Behind this Blood Strand Sword Prison were faces of coldughter and ugliness.

    "To im a purend for oneself, to bully the weak by strength, to dominate and rule, do you think you can arbitrarily dictate the fate of themon folk?" Yun Xiao mused silently.

    In this world, there was a heavenlydder! Unless one was at the very top of thisdder, there was always someone stronger above. Once one acts unrighteously, how could one hope for eternal peace?

    "Since I''vee here, I must let you all witness, what are called the true methods of the heavens!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>As Yun Xiao spoke, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul stirred up a raging dark azure storm, its destructive power multiplying and bing even more ferocious!

    For a moment, the power of the sword in Yun Xiao''s hand seemed to surpass that of the Blood Child Sword Soul!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Without another word, with a cold expression nearly identical to the red-robed woman''s, Yun Xiao struck with his sword!

    That thrust forward, the sword''s momentum spreading, creating a sttering effect, suddenly unfurled arge of azure blood, like a vast azure-ck maw opening its sharp fangs!

    This azure Blood Strand Sword Prison was evenrger, denser, and more brutal than the crimson blood strands!

    "How can it also be the Blood Strand Sword Prison?"

    In that moment, a sense of astonishment sprouted in the hearts of each descendant of the Three Immortals.

    "It must be the illusion technique of the Dreamsea Abalone, just like those ten Sword Rings..." someone blurted out.

    "...Perhaps not!" The Mysterious Sword Manor Master''s expression changed, recalling that Yun Xiao had often used the techniques of others.

    But that aside, this was a technique unique to the red-robed woman in the Primordial Ruins! How could he possibly know it?

    In this moment of shock, even the red-robed woman herself harbored shock and doubt.

    "My Sword Soul? My sword technique?" In an instant, the azure and crimson swords shed, like two bloody beasts colliding, their dense sword movements instantly resulting in hundreds of exchanges.

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>The ear-piercing sound of swords exploding swept through the entire area, leaving the disciples of the Primordial Academy shocked and dazzled.

    "Can Yun Xiao really face the Temple Head in directbat?"

    Waves of astonishment surged in their hearts.

    "It''s not about being evenly matched, but rather..."

    People watched, breathless, as the azure blood-colored sword prison attacked, revealing even more variations, clearly incorporating techniques from the Primordial Triforce Sword Art. The azure blood strands twisted into azure sword energy vortexes, pressing down like giant wheels, with furious azure dragons bursting forth in a frenzy!

    The Heaven Burial Sword Soul, with its lethal power of death,pletely suppressed the Blood Child Sword Soul. The blood strands and vortexes swept over, striking the red-robed woman!

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! </em>Even though she was protected by top-tier magic armor, Yun Xiao''s sword still left dense sword marks on her body!

    "How is this possible..." The red-robed woman retreated in shock, tumbling down from the high tform to the ground.

    She immediately got up, her dark red eyes staring intently at Yun Xiao, her mind in turmoil.

    Before her, this young man in white stood enveloped in a dark azure storm, his eyes swirling with sword energy, appearing both divine and demonic, with an unparalleled demeanor!

    "His Sword Soul can directly absorb the power of Sword Hearts for use, and even replicate your sword technique?!" The Mysterious Sword Manor Master finally grasped this point, his mind buzzing.

    The red-robed woman looked down at her blood-drenched right arm and the trembling Blood Child Sword Soul, then asked in the most solemn tone, "Could this youngster''s ten Sword Rings be real? Should he have been eliminated sooner than Lian Xi?"

    Her question, from another perspective, was akin to asking could Yun Xiao be more heaven defying than Lian Xi?

    Hearing this, the Mysterious Sword Manor Master''s eyes zed with fire. He scanned the surroundings and suddenly roared, "ck Battalion, heed mymand, all-out attack, eliminate this menace!"

    Yun Xiao''sst strike had the cautious and suspicious descendants of the Three Immortals forgetting their intent to torture him, desiring only to eradicate a significant threat on the spot!

    "Yes!" Tens of thousands roared in unison.

    The Martial Cultivators advanced!

    The Sword Cultivators drew their swords!

    The Inscription Cultivators readied their sigils!

    Tens of thousands of cultivators attacked simultaneously.

    Every single one of them was at least in the Five Decays Realm!

    After their initial shock, the only thing left in their eyes was a murderous desire to kill!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

 Chapter 452: Please, Dont Run Away. I Want to Have a Good Slaughter!

    Chapter 452: Please, Don''t Run Away. I Want to Have a Good ughter!

    "His strength limit must be in the Early Yin Immortal Realm. He''s just relying on outside sources for a temporary boost. He won''t be able to maintain it for long." The red-robed woman bit her lips and swept a nce at the surrounding Dharma Crowns.

    "Together!" The Dharma Crowns understood her meaning and nodded one after another.

    "All righteous human warriors! y this fiend and guard the righteous path! Earn merit for themon people!" The Mysterious Sword Manor Master also shouted towards the Sacred Sages of the Primordial Academy.

    At this moment, quite a few Sacred Sages stepped forward and blended into the ranks of the ck Battalion!

    This formation gave Yun Xiao an overwhelmingly sufficient respect¡­ In their eyes, this young man was already akin to a mad dog in a frenzy!

    The red-robed woman gave Yun Xiao onest look, frowned slightly, and retreated behind a few Dharma Crowns before loudly ordering, "y him!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Thousands of Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and magic treasures directly descended like a colorful deathly downpour upon Yun Xiao!

    "Please, don''t run away, I want to have a good ughter." Yun Xiao chuckled sinisterly, instantly pulling out over a hundred Sword Hearts from his Bag of Holding.

    <em>SLASH! </em>As the Sword Hearts hovered in the air, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul swept across, swallowing all their ancestral power.

    After devouring all the Sword Hearts from the Jade Immortal Tower, this sword, though only three feet long, conjured a dark azure storm hundreds of meters high. It was like a gigantic dark azure devil, with a murderous aura fierce enough to shake the world!

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    Yun Xiao, with his eyes swirling with a dark azure sword energy, swept over the tens of thousands surrounding him for the kill.

    "You regard me as a devil, and I see you as Seeds of Creation. Let''s not argue about who has the moral high ground and just do survival of the fittest! That''s what I call justice and fairness!"

    As his words fell, his three-foot azure de suddenly extended, transforming into a six-foot azure Sovereign Sword!

    After absorbing the power of hundreds of Sword Hearts, this six-foot Sovereign Sword, enveloped in a dark azure storm, no longer resembled a sword, but was more like a divine dragon!

    <em>ROAR! </em>Yun Xiao leapt up, his white robe billowing, stepping onto the Sovereign Sword! He took a swig of liquor, his face slightly flushed, his heart filled with righteousness, smiling as he sang.

    "The sword emerges like a dragon, amidst the noisy ants, I ask what are you? Ants make good wine!"

    With a drunken cry, the youth seemed intoxicated. Yet, the dragon under his feet was not. It was ferocious and enraged, carrying out the divine punishment of the heavens.

    Completely surrounded, many wondered if Yun Xiao was nning to evade with his Sovereign Sword. The answer was a resounding no!

    Yun Xiao rose with a smile, his spirit overwhelming the heavens. Man and dragon soared into the sky, transforming into a roaring sword storm, resembling a sky-rending de, shooting upwards!

    The ten Dreamsea Abalone Sword Rings encircled the dragon, emitting a song of deep seament, shimmering with dazzling light, creating worlds of fantasy around Yun Xiao, making him and the dragon appear innumerable!

    "Of the three sword techniques of the Primordial Triforce Sword Art, the most magnificent is the Sovereign Sword, My Dao Reaches the Heavens''!"

    Unparalleled Sword Dao, Boundless Dao, and My Dao Reaches the Heavens!

    "As my Sovereign Sword ascends, my Dao Heart knows no fear!" Yun Xiao chanted with a lightugh, his brightughter piercing through the hearts of those in the Mystic Zenith Temple. That fearless spirit had already intimidated their hearts, making the thousands surrounding him doubt themselves!

    Then, they saw with their own eyes, the young man in white and his Sovereign Sword transformed into a dragon, stirring up an azure tornado. Where he passed, magic treasures shook, Flying Swords wailed, and Life Sigils scattered. He didn''t dodge at all, supported by the power of a hundred Sword Hearts, he was unmatched under the heavens!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Those magic treasures, Flying Swords, and Life Sigils were like toys being smashed around him, bouncing off and being tossed aside.

    "Huh?!" The next moment, the storm had engulfed the entire ck Battalion!

    Wherever the sword storm went, the ck Battalion members immediately screamed in terror. This scene was like a dragon swallowing mere insects. Where Yun Xiao''s Sovereign Sword passed, living beings were instantly devoured whole, not even bones remained, evaporating into ck ash scattering in the air!

    In fact, their Sword Bones, Life Sigils, Seeds of Creation, and even their Bags of Holding all ended up in Yun Xiao''s hands.

    "You''re not wrong, I indeed am a fiend. But when this fiend is the Creator Immortaling back to collect debts, who can fault me?"

    <em>BOOM! BOOM BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s dark azure dragon swept through with terrifying speed. Wherever it went, the originally dense encirclement vanished into thin air, leaving behind only their screams echoing in the sky!

    "Holy, holy, holy¡­" Over 100,000 disciples of the Primordial Academy watched, their eyes twitching.

    Each of these ck Battalion soldiers struck fear into these youths. Yet, Yun Xiao was tearing through them like he was squashing insects.

    The azure dragon swept across the heavens in the blink of an eye. Just one pass through, and the almost 10,000 ck Battalion cultivators blocking him were all swept into the dragon''s maw, not a single hair left!

    Only their extremely terrified souls were still screaming in the sky!

    Several dozen Sacred Sages who went up to assist the ck Battalion met the same fate.

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    In such a short span of time, very few of the ck Battalion cultivators managed to escape!

    Not only were the Primordial Academy disciples stunned, but the Manor Masters and Dharma Crowns about to make their move turned deathly pale, nearly suffocating, exchanging looks of sheer terror.

    "This is no human!" the Mysterious Sword Manor Master said, trembling.

    "L-let''s retreat!" The red-robed woman could no longer seize the opportunity to encircle and kill Yun Xiao. With over a hundred Sword Hearts in use, this was more terrifying than a Yang Immortal. What was the point in fighting?N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Her heart was pounding with fear!

    Though retreat was shameful, this was the general consensus.

    "Retreat?"

    Suddenly, a coldugh came from the sky.

    The Manor Masters and Dharma Crowns looked up, only to see the azure dragon had vanished. The young man in white, enveloped in ck mist, descended from the sky, his face wearing a bizarre yet exhrating smile, and an utmost indifference.

    Without a second word, the red-robed woman, Manor Masters, and Dharma Crowns fled in different directions.

    "Don''t let them get away...!" Lil Xiu shouted instinctively.

    Immediately, hundreds around her looked her way.

    "Oh no, uh, ah¡­" Lil Xiu trembled with fear.

    But in the next moment, thousands of Primordial Academy disciples shouted with surging passion. "Quick, kill them!"

    "Alright!" This chorus of shouts proved the value of everything Yun Xiao had done. He was overjoyed, feeling even more unrestrained in his heart.

    He took a hearty drink of his favorite Tiger Rod Wine atop the sky, holding a mouthful before spraying it out. That mouthful of liquor turned into a dragon''s fire, burning on the three-inch Flying Sword in his hand!

    The Flying Sword seemed drunk too, even more brutal!

    "Go, my darling!" Yun Xiao casually threw it, and that ultimate weapon with 5,000,000yers of Sword Aura furiously shot out, directly vanishing into the void!

    "Huh?" The Mysterious Sword Manor Master had just escaped the Mystic Zenith Temple when the space before him rippled, a killing intent locking onto him.

    "What''s this..." Just as he was slightly stunned, a streak of azure light shot from the ripples, sweeping past his heart in an instant, not taking a drop of blood.

    "Uh?" The Mysterious Sword Manor Master clutched his chest.

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>ck blood gushed out wildly.

    "No, no!" He frantically tried to cover it, trying to stem the flow of his heart''s blood, but then, the blood throughout his body ignited, dark azure mes burning all his flesh.

    "Three Immortals! Ancestor! Yun Xiao is even more malicious, he must be dealt with with the utmost seriousness!" In his final moments, he issued a soul-shuddering warning, then was engulfed by the azure me and copsed with a crash!

    Behind him, a three-inch azure light, like the scythe of a reaper, made arge circle around the Mystic Zenith Temple, piercing through the hearts of each Dharma Crown and Manor Master.

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF!</em>

    In a sh, the lives of these dozens of powerhouses were imed!

    Once a Sword Cultivator became extremely powerful, the world beneath the heavens became their ughter ground with their Flying Sword!

    Even against millions of troops, a single sword was sufficient!

    The red-robed woman fleeing in panic felt a sudden chill in her heart! She urgently stopped, looked down, and saw an azure Flying Sword, merely an inch away from her chest! Had she not stopped, she would have collided with it!

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    "Yun Xiao..." The red-robed woman, drenched in sweat, trembled violently as she turned around.

    Under the bright silver moonlight, behind her stood a young man in white, his hair loose, face slightly flushed, holding a sk of wine, spotlessly clean. Not like a murderer, but more like a fresh and innocent young man.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 453: The Nian Wants Out!

    Chapter 453: The Nian Wants Out!

    <em>BOOM! </em>A dense blood mist suddenly rose from the body of the red-robed woman, and tens of thousands of blood bats swirled out, swooping towards Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword!

    All of these were transformations of the crimson Life Sigil! She used the Life Sigil to block Yun Xiao''s sword, twisting her delicate body to dodge in a life-or-death crisis.

    "His Sword Heart power has already dropped by more than half, I still have a chance!" The red-robed woman moved her cold gaze, igniting a belief of counterattack in her eyes, with a sword and a sigil in hand, she turned around to counterattack Yun Xiao.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The crimson Life Sigil, taking the form of a sky-full of blood bats, attacked Yun Xiao. The entire world in front of him was filled with blood mist, and a scarlet killing intent covered everything.

    The blood bats emitted a sound that, while not harsh to the ear, caused dizziness and a sensation as if one''s head would split apart!

    <em>HUM! </em>Yun Xiao caught the three-inch Sword Soul that flew back to him, transforming it into a three-foot azure Palm Sword!

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! </em>In the next instant, tens of thousands of blood bats engulfed him like a giant cocoon. Those blood bats, baring their fangs, were about to tear into Yun Xiao''s flesh!

    At the same time, the red-robed woman, holding the crimson Sword Soul, turned into a red shadow, stabbing towards Yun Xiao''s heart. The person and the sword unified, turning into a blood-colored storm!

    "You had a chance, and you didn''t cherish it?" Facing such a killing intent when his Sword Heart power was exhausted, Yun Xiao''s face also surged with a cold light.

    The Prison Warden Life Sigil on his forehead, after devouring the Life Sigils of 3,000 ck Battalion Inscription Cultivator elites, had grown to 3,000,000 Runes, surpassing that of the red-robed woman!

    Although the Prison Warden Life Sigil couldn''t absorb Sword Heart power, Yun Xiao''s own strength wasn''tcking either, and it also possessed some special property advantages!

    As the blood bats came biting, Yun Xiao transformed the Prison Warden Life Sigil into the Dao Dragon form. The violet nine-headed dragon coiled around his body, endowing him with a divine and domineering aura!

    <em>ROAR! </em>As the dragon pattern roared, it collided head-on with the blood bats in closebat!

    Without a doubt, the blood bats of the crimson Life Sigil were formidable. But in the face of the nine-headed dragon, they struggled to gain an advantage in a short time. The blood-colored, sinister force, upon touching the purifying power of the Prison Warden Life Sigil, would ignite and smoke, emitting a sizzling wail!

    For Yun Xiao, even without the Sword Hearts, his Prison Warden Life Sigil proved entirely sufficient.

    With a buzz, his eyes fiercely locked onto the red-robed woman hidden among the blood bats, advancing a step and thrusting forward with his Palm Sword!

    <em>Primordial Triforce Sword Art, Boundless Dao!</em>

    Yun Xiao, with the desperation of a man with nothing left to lose, unleashed all the power of the Sword Hearts, causing another dark azure storm to swirl around the sword!

    With a loud buzz, a primordial cyclone formed atop the de, condensing the dark azure storm to its absolute limit. Fused with a power that could rend space and over 5,000,000yers of Sword Aura, it unleashed a powerful explosion!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    <em>BOOM! </em>With Yun Xiao''s strike, the blood bats before him disintegrated, and the primordial sword pierced through, arriving right before the red-robed woman!

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>With a series of shes, Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul forced open the Blood Child Sword Soul. He was not just fierce but also precise, targeting the most vulnerable spots on the red-robed woman until the final thrust pierced her left chest, exiting through her back!

    "Ah¡­" The red-robed woman''s movements suddenly ceased. The intense pain in her chest caused her to tremble, herplexion turning deathly pale. Both her Life Sigil and her Sword Soul lost their luster.

    She knew this might have been Yun Xiao''s final strike in his frenzied state, but sadly, she couldn''t defend against it.

    In her moment of despair, she dropped all pretense of pride, adopting a pitiful demeanor and tearfully said to Yun Xiao, "Don''t kill me, I can be useful to you!"

    "What use could you possibly have for me?" Yun Xiao withdrew the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, pointing it at her brow, his voice cold.

    "I descended from the heavens, a supervisor from the Great Dao Celestial Realm!" the red-robed woman hurriedly imed.

    "The Great Dao Celestial Realm? A world after ascension?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Yes! Beyond Yang Immortals are the True Immortals, ascending by daylight, the end of the Immortal path..." the red-robed woman said, biting her lip. "I can return now, report to the Celestial Court about the Three Immortals¡¯ poisoning of this lower world. The Celestial Court will surely carry out divine punishment, exterminating the Three Immortals!"

    She had expected Yun Xiao to take her words seriously, but instead, heughed derisively.

    "The Celestial Court sends down a hybrid like you to supervise the mortal world, and yet you turn a blind eye to its suffering, serving the Three Immortals, enjoying the conveniences and benefits they provide. Why should I believe you, or the so-called aloof True Immortals who know nothing of hardship?" Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "You just don''t understand," the red-robed woman said, her forehead beaded with cold sweat and her chest still dripping blood and throbbing with pain, yet she forced a cheerful smile. "Cultivation is a path in pursuit of righteousness. Beneath the heavenlydder to the Immortal Realm, the higher worlds are more civilized, and the stronger the cultivator, the more saintly and noble they be, embracing the universe to transcend themselves!"

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao could onlyugh in disbelief.

    "It''s true, it is a sanc..." The red-robed woman was about to rify when Yun Xiao''s sword suddenly moved!

    With a sh of the de, he swung his sword and beheaded the red-robed woman.

    This enchanting and beautiful woman, in just a blink, became a corpse in shock.

    Beauty and bones, devoid of meaning now.

    With a thud, her body copsed to the ground.

    Yun Xiao indifferently crouched down, retrieving a Bag of Holding from her embrace.

    The entirety of the Primordial Academy''s daoist spells and teachings were contained within.

    Of course, there might also be some items from the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Yun Xiao also consumed her Sword Soul, Life Sigil, and Seed of Creation.

    In an instant, his Sword Aurayer count reached 5,500,000, and his Life Sigil grew to 3,800,000 Runes.

    After dealing with her, he used the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to lift the red-robed woman''s shocked face.

    "First, you got it backwards. The higher the world, the fiercer thepetition, and the more ruthless it bes. One bes Immortal, a million perish; you say they embodypassion, I don''t believe it.

    "Second, you im toe from above, which is all the more reason for me to kill you. I act on my own. Relying on you means entrusting my fate to you, and I''m not fond of taking such risks."

    Had she not had so much baggage, Yun Xiao might have considered using her. But now, it was cleaner to just end her! As for her secrets, Yun Xiao could slowly uncover them among her possessions.

    After incinerating the red-robed woman''s corpse, Yun Xiao returned to the Mystic Zenith Temple''s square with the heads of the Manor Masters and Dharma Crowns.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>He tossed those heads into arge cauldron filled with the All Life Devouring Gu.

    "Uh..." Over a hundred thousand disciples and Sacred Sages from the Primordial Academy looked on in shock and disbelief, their minds buzzing with questions.

    "Thebined forces of the Three Immortals in the Mystic Zenith Temple, along with over 10,000 troops from the ck Battalion, he ughtered them all..."

    The enormity of this event was staggering!

    A tidal wave of astonishment surged through everyone''s hearts.

    After finishing, Yun Xiao stood on the tform, waving his hand to the crowd.

    "Dharma Crown Yun, what should we, I mean, do?" Yue Molin mustered the courage to ask.

    "Stay put, and then, never practice the Ascension Technique. That technique doesn''t lead to the heavens but straight to hell."

    After speaking, Yun Xiao vanished into thin air, disappearing from everyone''s sight.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back at the Immortal Asylum in the Nine Hells, the skinless Nian nced outside.

    "Another bug gone! Only one golden bug left outside!" it growled. "This is the best opportunity, I''m breaking out!"

    As it spoke, it was surrounded by tiny bugs imbued with the power of destion, wrapping it tightly.

    "Wait a bit longer, let me eat a bit more, you keep ying dead," a voice from within it said.

    "Damn it, all this dithering. I''m the Nian! The Year Beast! This is the best time, I want to go out for the New Year!"

 Chapter 454: Murderous Fiend!

    Chapter 454: Murderous Fiend!

    In the first level of the Primordial Pagoda, once filled with celestial puppets, now stood a grand hall enveloped in ck and white radiant light.

    Within the hall, numerous cultivators, enveloped in Immortal aura, gathered. Their gazes solemn, holding their breath and focusing their spirits, they silently waited.

    In the deepest part, there was a snow-white lotus tform. Upon it sat a woman in meditation, her white hair cascading around her, glowing softly,peting in brilliance with her jade-like skin. She was Dean Yu.

    "Sister!" At this moment, a lean man burst into the first level of the Primordial Pagoda. His expression was grave, and his shout, like thunder from a clear sky, startled many of the Immortal powerhouses present.

    "What''s going on Sacred Sage Feng?"

    Many in white robes looked towards Feng Qingcong, their eyes filled with confusion.

    Based on their understanding of this man, he was never one to raise a fuss. Such behavior indicated something significant must have happened.

    "Something big has happened at the Mystic Zenith Temple!" Feng Qingcong made his way through the crowd, arriving before Dean Yu.

    "What has happened?" Dean Yu slightly furrowed her brows and asked softly.

    Hundreds of eyes also fell on this lean man.

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    Taking a deep breath, Feng Qingcong said with disbelief, "Yun Xiao went to the Mystic Zenith Temple and killed Jian Xing, Li Hongpao, all the Dharma Crowns, ten Manor Masters, and over 10,000 ck Battalion soldiers!"

    Upon these words, the Primordial Pagoda was plunged into utter silence, with everyone looking at each other, speechless.

    "Impossible, he''s just a child."

    "Did I hear that right? Over 10,000 ck Battalion cultivators?"

    The people in white robes whispered among themselves, looking at Feng Qingcong with skepticism, finding it hard to ept this reality.

    "Exin." Dean Yu opened her eyes and looked piercingly at Feng Qingcong.

    After Feng Qingcong had already questioned the disciples of the Primordial Academy present, he recounted the entire incident.

    "The key lies in the Sword Hearts! Those disciples said that Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul could directly devour the power of the Sword Hearts, creating a lethal force that transcends ranks. He used over 100 Sword Hearts to annihte those people and also prevented the disciples from practicing the Ascension Technique¡­" Feng Qingcong said, still astonished, his eyes filled with shock.

    "Sword Hearts?"

    Many exchanged nces. Though they had not witnessed it themselves, they believed Feng Qingcong would not joke at such a time.

    "So, the incident at the Jade Immortal Tower was indeed his doing?"

    This truth left them somewhat bemused. When the incident happened, all fingers pointed at Yun Xiao¡­ Then it appeared everyone thought too highly of his abilities. And now, it turned out to be him after all?

    "The most important are the ten Sword Rings, this is definitely no falsehood¡­"

    Yun Dahe touched his bald head, his eyes wide with amazement. As a Sword Cultivator, he understood what the ten Sword Rings signified.

    "The Human Zenith Sword Immortal is called the pinnacle with his eight Sword Rings reaching the heavens. So, what does that make Yun Xiao with his ten?" Yun Dahe pped his thigh and burst intoughter, saying, "As the saying goes, one is influenced by thepany one keeps. Lian Xi is truly a person of destiny, attracting a youth who seems ordinary at first but is in fact the most unparalleled sword genius since ancient times!"

    "Ten Sword Rings!"

    The powerhouses from the Academy Faction exchanged looks, their eyes shining with a divine light.

    Not all of them belonged to the Primordial Academy; some were strong beings from across the myriad worlds, some were from ancient families of the Primordial Ruins¡­ and now, they gathered around Lian Xi, protecting her, waiting for hope!

    "What is his purpose in doing this?" They looked at each other, pondering this question.

    "He wants to continue being the eye of the storm, drawing the attention of the Three Immortals to protect Lian Xi," Dean Yu suddenly said.

    Everyone paused, then smiled.

    "Youthful love, simple and straightforward, brave and pure, enviable indeed."

    "This kid is really something, worthy of Lian Xi in every aspect."

    "He took responsibility for the incidents at the Pathseeker Pce and the Jade Immortal Tower, even framing the True Devil, and now has the courage to face it alone. This fierce nature is exactly what most of usck¡­"

    For a moment, the youth''s decisiveness left a deep impression on them.

    "So, do we have an additional hope now?"

    "It seems so."

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    "Sister, should we talk to him?" Feng Qingcong asked.

    "No need, let him handle it on his own," Dean Yu said, pursing her lips.

    "With such a big incident at the Mystic Zenith Temple, I''m afraid the Three Immortals might seek retaliation..." Feng Qingcong reminded.

    "It doesn''t matter. By convicting Lian Xi during the day, they''ve already torn apart centuries of tacit understanding, fundamentally changing everything," Dean Yu paused, "Yun Xiao daring to do this also means he''s ready to take the responsibility upon himself."

    "With this, the people of the Primordial Ruins hate him even more," Feng Qingcong sighed softly, then looked up and asked, "Do you think the minds of the people in the Ruins, those infected by the Gu, would change if they witnessed the ugliness of the Three Immortals with their own eyes?"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "I don''t know." Dean Yu''s gaze was distant, looking beyond the Primordial Pagoda. She knew that after the incident at the Mystic Zenith Temple, the reputation of the Primordial Academy would surely suffer another devastating blow.

    This moment would surely be the lowest of the low! When could they rise again? Even if they burned everything to bring down the Three Immortals, could the beings of the Primordial Ruins ever return to how things were before? How much of their own will remained? She couldn''t be certain.

    "At least, the beings of the myriad worlds will be saved."

    "They are the realmon folk¡­"

    As for those in the Primordial Ruins, they were the elite cultivators of the myriad worlds!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a corner of the Primordial Academy, Yun Xiao sat cross-legged atop a high building.

    The disciples of the academy were still afraid to move about due to the incident at the Mystic Zenith Temple, making the academy now sparsely popted, eerily quiet, almost deserted.

    Yun Xiao held his Prison Warden Life Sigil, concentrating on drawing a small formation with a Rune Pen. Under the moon, ayer of silver moonlight draped over him. Everything seemed calm and tranquil.

    However, outside the academy, as news of the Mystic Zenith Temple incident spread, the entire Primordial Ruins were already engulfed in a raging inferno. Endless fury was gathering, forming a volcanic magma momentum, pressing towards the academy!

    The name of the murderous fiend trembled through the divine ark.

    Yun Xiao''s tranquility contrasted sharply with the outer world''s frenzy, like a block of ice that never melted, surrounded by mes and moltenva.

    The conflict between ice and fire was on the verge of erupting.

    Just then, a weak call from a young girl sounded behind Yun Xiao.

    "Immortal Yun¡­"

    Yun Xiao continued to write, while saying, "Come closer."

    "Yes." A pale-skinned girl with disheveled hair floated over like a ghost,nding on the eaves before him. Her hands sped in front, she slightly bowed her head, her bare feet touching the eaves.

    A gray mist enveloped her, within which surged resentful spirits forming faces of sea demons, emitting low, mournful shrieks.

    "Such heavy resentment from the dead?" Yun Xiao stopped writing and looked up at Pale Revenant.

    "The Oblivion Demon Sea is somewhat peculiar¡­" she whispered softly.

    "Not now." Yun Xiao cut her off and gestured for her toe closer.

    Pale Revenant approached, nervously saying, "I''m afraid the corpse energy on me might contaminate you."

    As soon as her words fell, Yun Xiao ced the Prison Warden Life Sigil on her forehead.

    <em>HISS! </em>Smoke rose from her body as all the malicious resentments burned off into white mist, ascending to reincarnation, leaving behind only pure energy in her body. Originally a corpse gathered from dense resentment and dead energy, the transformation by the Prison Warden Life Sigil made her akin to a living person, brimming with life.

    After a while, the corpse mist dissipated, and she regained her rity. Her skin gained some color, and she even had a heartbeat¡­ In this state, even if she walked on the road, probably no one could immediately recognize that she was actually a deep-sea corpse demon.

    "Feeling better?" Yun Xiao removed the Prison Warden Life Sigil from her forehead and pinched her cheek, asking.

    "Much better, thank you." Pale Revenant felt grateful, about to kneel, but Yun Xiao gently supported her, smiling, "You were saying, the Oblivion Demon Sea is strange?"

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    "Yes!" Pale Revenant nodded vigorously, then said, "When I first arrived, I thought it was so beautiful. It was a sea of myriad colors, bizarre and dazzling, like a dream. All demons and beasts lived in harmony, thriving in prosperity, a joyous and perfect paradise¡­ I quickly blended in and felt very happy until suddenly, I smelled a strong scent of corpse energy."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    The name of the murderous fiend trembled through the divine ark.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 455: The Primordial Ruins in Flames!

    Chapter 455: The Primordial Ruins in mes!

    "Corpse energy?"

    "Yes, corpse energy. After smelling it, the world in my eyes suddenly changed drastically. All the colors and dreams vanished, reced by a deep sea of grey and ck, filled with blood from corpses. Allughter turned into screams and wailing. Everywhere were wronged souls and dismembered bodies, along with all sorts of demons, like me, immersed in joy," Pale Revenant spoke with a hint of fear in her heart.

    "So, this dazzling sea is just a grand illusion that spans the entire Oblivion Demon Sea, enchanting all demons into a state of bliss? In reality, it''s actually a ughter ground?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow in question.

    "Exactly! It''s a grand illusion of the entire sea," Pale Revenant nodded.

    "The creator of all this, it''s the Dreamsea Abalones, right?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "How did you know?" Pale Revenant asked, slightly surprised.

    Yun Xiao pulled out the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, pointing to the ten Yang Immortal Sword Rings on it, "These alle from Dreamsea Abalones."

    "Oh." Pale Revenant nodded, then seriously said, "From what I''ve seen, the Dreamsea Abalones are quite formidable. Their illusion skills are unparalleled... In fact, the Oblivion Demon Sea is home to only one kind of demon, the Dreamsea Abalone n. All the other demons are merely their food in dreams, living and dying in bliss, never realizing that everything they experienced was false."

    "That powerful?" Yun Xiao nced at Pale Revenant, "You''ve grown so much this time, and your corpse resentment has be so strong. Did you eat all their stored food?"

    Pale Revenant blushed. "Those demon corpses have been dead for a long time. I didn''t touch the ones still alive."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Next time, you can even touch the living ones," Yun Xiao said.

    "Yes," Pale Revenantplied obediently.

    "I didn''t expect you to find such a loophole in the Oblivion Demon Sea in such a short time. In that case, stay in the Primordial Ruins and help me for now," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Mhm!" Pale Revenant nodded, her eyes brimming with undisguised excitement.

    "By the way, you stole the food of the Dreamsea Abalones. How did they react?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "They just happened not to be there," Pale Revenant looked up at Yun Xiao, "That''s also why I rushed back."

    "You mean, they''vee here?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I vaguely heard their arrangements. Now, most of them have already infiltrated the Primordial Ruins. Some may be around the Nine Hells. They all possess illusory magic, making it hard to identify them as demons," Pale Revenant said earnestly.

    "What''s their purpose foring out in full force?" Yun Xiao frowned and asked.

    "It seems to be about saving the Nian? This is what I vaguely heard, but I can''t guarantee its truth," Pale Revenant said.

    "Saving the Nian? The Nian isn''t a demon, and it has nothing to do with the Dreamsea Abalones..." Yun Xiao was puzzled, noting this information while considering many possibilities.

    "Their strength is formidable. Please, be extra careful," Pale Revenant warned.

    "These Dreamsea Abalones are very ancient demons. They''ve survived until now, even the Three Immortals couldn''t subdue them. They definitely have some tricks up their sleeve," Yun Xiao stated calmly.

    "Their leader is called Divine Immortal, and it seems capable of transforming into anything, even someone close to you. Be even more cautious," Pale Revenant mentioned the demon, slightly wary.

    "Transform into someone close to me?" Yun Xiao quickly turned the Prison Warden Life Sigil into the Soulfire Eye, ncing at Pale Revenant. Thankfully, she was indeed the real Pale Revenant.

    "Sigh..." Yun Xiao took a deep breath, looking towards the restless and boiling night sky, softly saying, "The bad news is, another troublesome group has entered the fray. They definitely mean no good for humanity, bing the Primordial Ruins'' biggest enemy apart from the devils. But the good news is... they are now also the Three Immortals'' biggest enemy."

    The Three Immortals and the Dreamsea Abalones, one dominating the myriad worlds of humanity, the other leading the worlds'' demons, both were sovereigns of their kind.

    Interestingly, their methods of dominion shared a certain method.

    The Three Immortals relied on the All Life Devouring Gu, draining the practitioners of the Primordial Ruins.

    The Dreamsea Abalones directly used illusions to create a false world of ecstasy, making the strongest group of demons live in a drunken dream.

    "And now, they are eyeing the same treasure?" Yun Xiao gazed into the night sky.

    The fires outside were growing fiercer.

    "As dawn breaks, it''s going to be Three Immortals Day. What exactly are these people waiting for?"

    For some reason, a strong sense of crisis had already formed in Yun Xiao''s heart.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Deep into the night, in the Heavenly Order Temple of the Sky Source Ruins, a thousand individuals dressed in gold, silver, and ck robes gathered within the grand hall.

    The dimly lit temple, with its walls casting numerous shadows, seemed to be filled with people, yet cast ghostly silhouettes.

    The atmosphere inside the temple was extremely solemn and fierce.

    Amidst the respectful crowd, a cauldron was ced down, filled with dozens of heads, piled up to the brim.

    At the top of the cauldron, the head of the red-robed woman served as the crowning touch.

    Below it were the heads of the Mysterious Sword Manor Masters and others, followed by the Dharma Kings.

    The thousand-strong crowd on the scene, with their faces twisted in ferocity and heavy breathing, stared at the jar with eyes filled with savage ferocity.

    "Sky Source Son, Mystic Earth Son, and Human Zenith Daughter, please give your orders!"

    Tian Yn, the Drunk Mad Sword, and other Celestial Officials all looked up at the three elders sitting above them, their eyes red with fervor.

    These three held the highest prestige among the children of the Three Immortals. In the absence of the Three Immortals, they represented the Primordial Ruins.

    Among them, the Sky Source Son was known as Tian Ding.

    The Mystic Earth Son, a silver-robed elder, appeared more valiantpared to the skeletal Tian Ding, with white hair and a youthful face, his eyes bright and spirited.

    The Mystic Earth Son''s name was Xuan Jian.

    There was also the Human Zenith Daughter, actually an old crone, with white hair and a hunched, somewhat short and plump figure, her face marked by a centipede-like scar, making her look fierce and ugly.

    But she had a name that intrigued many¡ªJian Mei. Perhaps she was a beauty in her youth, but now, at the age of several hundred, she was nearing the natural lifespan of humans.

    Below these three, the forces of the Three Great Ruins, ancient families of the Primordial Ruins, and others had all gathered!

    These thousands had all crossed over the Five Decays Realm, bing Immortals with lifespans of several hundred years.

    When the heads of the red-robed woman and others were brought back, the truth behind the Pathseeker Society and Jade Immortal Tower incidents was also revealed.

    They had all been yed! The direct descendants of the Three Immortals, manipted and killed by a youth, where was their dignity and honor?

    "Two points! First, his Sword Soul can absorb Sword Hearts. Second, he has ten Sword Rings. Just these two points, we need to act immediately and eliminate Yun Xiao!" Tian Yn addressed the Sky Source Son.

    "These two points are indeed astonishing. The threat of Yun Xiao is not less than that of Lian Xi, even more sinister," the Jade Immortal Tower Lord said with dark red eyes. He had also reidentified the true killer of his daughter!

    The Jade Immortal Tower Lord, along with the Moonsong Tower Lord and several hundred outside powerhouses, represented the ancient family forces of the Primordial Ruins, their history here longer than any of the Three Immortals'' descendants.

    "He even dared to kill an Immortal supervisor like Li Hongpao. This kid has not a shred of reverence in his mind."

    "A fugitive!"

    Many voices rose in eagerness for vengeance.

    Yet, there were those who remained calm.

    "No rush. After his killing spree, he must have hidden inside the Primordial Pagoda. Better to wait for him to hole up in his den, then deal with him and Lian Xi together."

    "Dawn is near, the sun and moon will soon align, and we''ll take care of it all at once."

    "That makes sense."

    The crowd discussed gravely.

    Throughout this, Tian Ding, Xuan Jian, and Jian Mei kept their gaze on the shocked head of the red-robed woman, silently pondering.

    After a while, Tian Ding spoke gravely, "Push this cauldron to the marketce, light it up again, let the public''s hatred for Yun Xiao grow, leading them to attack the Primordial Ruins first."

    "Understood!"

    Quickly, 100 people set out to do just that. The rest fell into silence.

    Soon, the uproar outside grew; a towering rage swept towards the Primordial Academy.

    After the outing of Lian Xi as a child of disaster, the murderous fiend Yun Xiao had also been thrown into the fray!

    Inside the Heavenly Order Temple, only the sound of dead silence remained.

    Finally, as daylight broke, Tian Ding, Xuan Jian, and Jian Mei suddenly left their seats, knelt to the ground, and called out with utmost devotion, "Wee, Mystic Earth True Immortal!"

 Chapter 456: Were in Big Trouble!

    Chapter 456: We''re in Big Trouble!

    "The Mystic Earth Immortal is back?"

    Inside the Heavenly Order Temple, thousands of mighty beings from the Primordial Ruins had awaited this moment. Their faces flushed with excitement, they uniformly knelt down with utmost devotion, following the lead of Tian Ding, Xuan Jian, and Jian Mei. Their foreheads touched the ground in deep reverence, embodying the gesture of full prostration.

    Outside the Heavenly Order Temple, in the dim world, a giant shadow in a silver robe gradually emerged. A ghostly smile seemed to grace his chest, making the atmosphere of the entire Sky Source Ruins eerily peculiar from the moment he appeared.

    This silver shadow was none other than the Mystic Earth Immortal.

    "I heard there''s been some changes?" The Mystic Earth Immortal''s voice was ethereal like a divine melody from the heavens.

    "Yes!" Xuan Jian, his direct son, quickly recounted the events that had unfolded within the Mystic Zenith Temple, then added, "I''ve already issued orders in advance for all the major merchants in the Primordial Ruins to destroy the Sword Hearts."

    "Interesting." The Mystic Earth Immortal let out a faintugh, which appeared to be his assessment of Yun Xiao. Afterward, he didn''t make any special arrangements but stood in front of the Heavenly Order Temple, looking down at the world of the Primordial Ruins!

    Far away, the popce was aze with fervor, forming a magma-like torrent encircling the Primordial Academy!

    And nearby, the Three Great Ruins stood solemn and cold, countless descendants of the Three Immortals donned in battle armor, their eyes hollow yet brimming with killing intent, already on standby.

    "Sun, moon, and man¡­ after a century of brewing, finally, all is in ce." The Mystic Earth Immortal''s lips curved slightly, a smile though not quite a smile, as the silver moonlight cast upon his face seemed to cloak him in a fineyer of silver dust.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Apass appeared in his hand.

    At the center of thepass were two spheres, one gold and one silver, one to the east and the other to the west, like miniature versions of the divine ark''s artificial sun and moon.

    It appeared to be the rudder steering the Primordial Ruins.

    The Mystic Earth Immortal shook thepass, the gold and silver beads ttering but nevering together.

    "You two were originally one, only by merging can you be a supreme celestial weapon. Now, after a century of brewing and the reconstruction of the broken mirror, you may be made whole again..." A fierce light shed in the eyes of the Mystic Earth Immortal. As he spoke, he suspended thepass in midair, each hand holding a sphere, infusing them with vast power.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a mere motion of thepass, the entire Primordial Ruins trembled, and both the rising sun in the east and the setting moon in the west quivered, emitting a deafening roar!

    "The sun and moon are about to converge!" Inside the Heavenly Order Temple, many eyes watched intently, voices filled with astonishment.

    The world was on the brink of a monumental change!

    A storm-like radiance surged around the Mystic Earth Immortal, his silver robe fluttering wildly. He and thepass trembled mightily together!

    "Come. For the glory of our era, lend your strength," the Mystic Earth Immortal turned and said to the mighty beings inside the Heavenly Order Temple.

    "Yes!" Inside the Heavenly Order Temple, everyone stepped forward as if endowed with a divine mission, their hearts throbbing with excitement.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Primordial Academy, Yun Xiao finally put down the Rune Pen in his hands.

    The Prison Warden Life Sigil shone with an increasingly vibrant violet glow, the small sigil now containing almost 5,000,000 Runes, forming tens of thousands of miniature inscription formations.

    Yun Xiao had inscribed the best formations that the Primordial Academy had to offer in one go. And it took him just a few hours. It was an increase of 2,000,000 Runes!

    This was something most people in the Primordial Ruins could not achieve in a lifetime.

    Yun Xiao was still in the Establishment Saint Wheel Realm. However, in terms of Sword Soul and Life Sigil, he had already reached the pinnacle of the Primordial Ruins.

    "Creating your own Runes is better than assimting them. More freedom and choice when ites to choosing formations¡­" Yun Xiao mused to himself. Now, his Prison Warden Life Sigil almost caught up with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    His Life Sigil and Sword Soul, each with its strengths,plemented each other, producing a synergistic effect greater than the sum of their parts.

    After acquiring all the techniques from the Merit Arena, Yun Xiao spent some more time going through all the crystallized wisdom and core inheritances of the Primordial Academy''s predecessors spanning thousands of years.

    "Indeed, as the Immortal academy of the myriad worlds, each daoist spell and sword technique here is indeed much more profound than those of the Sword Ruins and Ancestral Sword Tomb..." Yun Xiao stood in the wind, his eyes closed, savoring the moment.

    He had learned several hundred new sword techniques and daoist spells! Among these, the daoist spells were divided into Martial Dao Arts and Sigil Dao Spells. The former excelled in closebat, while thetter wielded Life Sigils.

    "After the battle at Mystic Zenith Temple, having devoured tens of thousands of Seeds of Creation, my flesh, Dantian, and meridians have all significantly improved."

    It could be said that Yun Xiao, aside from his cultivation, had grown in all aspects to the pinnacle of the Primordial Ruins.

    So, the most pressing matter before him was¡­ when would the Five Decays arrive?

    "The Five Cmities are of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Each disaster is unique, and while they harm, they don''t result in a 50% death rate."

    Yet, in the current state of the Primordial Ruins, while there were many cultivators in the Saint Wheel Realm, very few had sessfully transitioned from the Five Decays to be Yin-Yang Immortals!

    "Upon reaching the Five Decays, each decay''s severity intensifies, but the nature remains the same. The so-called Five Human Decays begin with the exhaustion of the five viscera and six bowels¡ªheart ceases to beat, lungs fail to breathe, liver stops converting... Following this, flesh, bones, skin age, vitality and blood exhaust, as if plummeting into hell.

    "In this process, the Saint Wheel''s essence ignites under the decay''s influence, turning into death energy, devouring the essence of flesh, sweeping across the body, eventually leading to the death of both vitality and blood! The only way to transcend the cmity is to endure until the extreme of exhaustion. At that moment, all the burnt essence and death energy give birth to a strand of Immortal Essence, which then sweeps across the body like a refreshing rain, ushering in renewal, flesh regeneration, and the return of vitality!"

    This was Yun Xiao''s understanding of the entire Five Decays process.

    Clearly, it was far more terrifying than the Five Cmities, causing cultivators of the Primordial Ruins to be scared witless. Their fear of the Five Decays stage was equal to their hatred towards the Martial Emperor n and the child of disaster.

    "The stairway to immortality is clearly at the Five Cmities, so why do cultivators who have absorbed the power of the Primordial Ruins have to endure the heavier burden of the Five Decays?" Yun Xiao refused to believe it was because the Martial Emperor n had angered the heavens.

    If the Martial Emperor n erred, why would the heavens punish others?

    "Coming to the Primordial Ruins invokes the Five Decays, which must rte to the source of the powers of heaven and earth you''ve absorbed." Blue Star had also raised this question before.

    Yun Xiao looked up, the sun and moon positioned in front and behind this divine ark.

    This moment marked the dawn of the sun!

    "Could their power, merging into the Immortal mist of the Primordial Ruins, be rted?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "It''s a possibility... but seems insufficient, unless these celestial bodies undergo other changes?" Blue Star spected with a frown.

    "Could they turn into milk, perhaps?" Red Moon joined in the conversation.

    "Milk from the heavens?" Blue Star quipped.

    "That would be my utopia!" Red Moon mused.

    Yun Xiao stood atop a towering building, his gaze fixed on the eternally chasing sun and moon.

    "Have you heard? The sun and moon were embedded in the Primordial Ruins after the arrival of the Three Immortals. Before that, it seems the Primordial Ruins were powered by a different force?"

    "So, are the Five Decays really rted to the sun and moon? As Yun Xiao pondered the celestial bodies, suddenly, the entire Primordial Academy beneath his feet began to tremble violently!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The earth continued to quake. Looking around, the entire Primordial Ruins seemed to be experiencing an earthquake, with thousands of buildings swaying before his eyes like ovepping shadows.

    In the distant streets, more crowds gathered, their deep anger coalescing!

    "Look up at the sky!" Blue Star suddenly eximed in surprise.

    Before Yun Xiao could look up, he noticed the ground before him brightening at a visible pace, as if daylight had arrived in an instant! He raised his head, only to see an incredible spectacle unfolding above!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The golden sun and the silver moon were slicing through the heavens, trailing giant golden and silver tails as they hurtled towards each other! The sun rose swiftly! The moon circled back through the sky!

    For all cultivators in the Primordial Ruins, this was an unprecedented and unimaginable scene.

    "What''s happening?"

    In an instant, everyone aboard this divine ark was stirred, all looking up to witness this historic moment!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Under the gaze of thousands, the sun and moon collided!

    However, contrary to expectations of an explosion, they merged like reconciling spouses, blending into one another. In an instant, they transformed into a golden-silver radiant sphere, suspended in the sky!

    Silver and gold converged, like two fish forming the pattern of Taiji!

    The new sun and moon, splendid and dazzling, sacred and majestic, left nearly all cultivators in the Primordial Ruins with dry throats, excitedly kneeling down, crying out in awe.

    Only Blue Star''s expression changed slightly. "I understand now, this is the power of Heavenly Decay, and we''re in big trouble!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 457: Heavenly Decay!

    Chapter 457: Heavenly Decay!

    "The power of Heavenly Decay?" Yun Xiao gazed at the sky, his brows deeply furrowed.

    After the sun and moon ovepped, beneath the splendid gold and silver hues, a seemingly sacred yet deste aura of Immortal energy began to sweep across the Primordial Ruins, filling every building and street.

    "This is a disaster of heaven and earth, utterly sinister and evil. It can devour the essence of flesh and life, essentially a power of death, a disaster of the Dao," Blue Star exined.

    "My Heaven Burial Sword Soul, it''s the progenitor of this type, isn''t it?" Yun Xiao said.

    "Indeed! But the type is different. This Power of Heavenly Decay is an aura. Once it spreads and cultivators absorb it into their bodies, it''s like practicing cultivation with poison over a long period! Once it erupts, it brings doom to all," Blue Star said with a grimace.

    Yun Xiao understood; this was essentially poisoning the popce.

    "So, you mean to say, the sun and moon release gold and silver mist, mixing it with the surrounding Immortal energy. Normally, the disaster isn''t noticeable, but once it converges within the body, it bes a fatal disease?" Yun Xiao said, staring at the ovepping sun and moon.

    "Exactly! The real reason why all cultivators in the Primordial Ruins went from the Five Cmities to the Five Decays¡­ It''s not because of heavenly punishment, but because they inhaled the utterly sinister and evil power of Heavenly Decay, leading to a collective outbreak!" Blue Star chuckled coldly.

    "As expected, the culprits are the Three Immortals who brought the sun and hidden moon. Their nsid out over hundreds of years, the reason for their actions might be revealed today." As Yun Xiao spoke, a surge of anger rose in his chest.

    These malefactors often cast their filth on the loyal and good, posing as saints themselves when they were really base and treacherous! And today, as the sun and moon aligned, the Three Immortals were enacting their grand n!

    "I have also cultivated with the power of the sun and moon in the Primordial Ruins. Now that the Three Immortals have summoned the power of Heavenly Decay to sweep across the world, what changes will ur to me?"

    Yun Xiao looked towards the direction of the Primordial Pagoda, slightly worried, for the actions of the Three Immortals likely targeted Lian Xi.

    "Lian Xi turns fifteen today." With this thought, under the daylight illuminated by the sun and moon, Yun Xiao soared towards the Primordial Pagoda.

    It appeared chaos had already ensued there.

    After news spread of Yun Xiao''s ughter at the Mystic Zenith Temple, over 1,000,000 enraged citizens of the Primordial Ruins stormed into the Primordial Academy, wreaking havoc and venting their fury.

    Now, except for the Primordial Pagoda and the Mystic Zenith Temple, almost every other ce had fallen!

    The foundation built by the Primordial Academy over tens of thousands of years had been reduced to rubble.

    Raging fires swept across thend, scorching the earth ck and leaving it scarred and deste.

    At that moment, the angry popce had encircled the Primordial Pagoda, with millions of cultivators from the Primordial Ruins gathered, each with mes burning atop their heads, fueled by a sense of justice, hurling curses in all directions.

    As the sun and moon ovepped, more people continued to flood in from the outside, effectively sealing off the Primordial Pagoda.

    Even the sky was locked down by a dense crowd!

    Yun Xiao, arriving nearby, found it nearly impossible to squeeze through.

    Dean Yu had no choice but to activate the Primordial Formation, using the pagoda as a foundation to create a defensive barrier that blocked the path of the enraged popce, safeguarding thest vestiges of peace.

    "Witch Yu! Hand over the cmity-bringer, the murderer!"

    "The age old foundation of the Academy, ruined in the hands of your foolishness!"

    "Surrender those two culprits, and the Three Immortals might still show mercy, sparing your worthless lives!"

    Outside the tower, millions with eyes red as blood, screamed in fury, tears of blood dripping from their eyes.

    Their brains were almost entirely inmed, their bodies and souls burning hot.

    Looking around, such people were densely packed, shoulder to shoulder, forming a sea of magma-like rage. The standing Primordial Pagoda resembled a colored gem in the furnace of hell, constantly on the verge of being engulfed.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With their lives, they struck at the Primordial Pagoda, smearing their hot blood on its surface.

    "For the peace and happiness of future generations, though our strength is feeble, we shall throw our heads and shed our blood to prevent the resurgence of the cmitous Imperial lineage and restore rity to the world!"

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!" Their magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils crazily battered the Primordial Pagoda!

    Fortunately, the Primordial Pagoda, being a transcendent artifact from ancient times, stood tall despite the relentless onught, for the time being.

    Yun Xiao stood in the shadows, his eyes fixed on everything happening. The fervent and violent crowd, each face tearfully resolute in their sacrifice, made him realize¡ªthis was humanity!

    Above the heads of those millions, a blood-red mist rose, condensing into a crimson Gu hundreds of miles long, writhing above the crowd, screaming in ecstasy, exhaling thick, blood-red smoke.

    While the masses seethed with anger, it reveled in ecstasy. Amidst the shifting mists, the crimson Gu flickered in and out of existence.

    "What''s the point if they can''t break into the Primordial Pagoda?" Yun Xiao was well aware that the Primordial Pagoda was the foundation of the Primordial Academy''s legacy, a foundation that was unshakably solid.

    As long as it stood, the soul of the Primordial Academy would live on forever!

    Just as he pondered, a change urred!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The power of Heavenly Decay, fully unleashed after the ovep of the sun and moon, crashed down into the crowd like countless beasts of death, forming a golden-silver cloud amidst the masses within the Primordial Academy!

    "AGGHHH!"

    Suddenly, cries of agony erupted. The angry popce suddenly fell to the ground, writhing and screaming. Their flesh ignited in golden-silver mes, causing their skin and muscles to shrivel and age rapidly, while their magic power and sacred power burned away!

    Millionsy on the ground, wailing, filling the Primordial Academy with their tragic cries, a sight so harrowing it resembled a hell on earth.

    It wasn''t just here; at this moment, streets and buildings throughout the Primordial Ruins were filled with screaming people. Their faces pale, eyes zing, tongues trembling, and sweat pouring, as life swiftly fled from them!

    The afflicted numbered not in the thousands but in the millions!

    The entire divine ark of heaven and earth, at this moment, seemed to be enveloped in a furnace of agony, being repeatedly smelted and drained. If this continued, they would surely be reduced to mere husks.

    "This is the consequence of long-term absorption of the power of Heavenly Decay. It doesn''t matter if you''ve reached the Five Decays Realm or not." Yun Xiao frowned deeply!

    In this grim atmosphere, Yun Xiao sensed something was amiss. Looking within him, he saw the white-golden primordial Sacred Wheel under his Genesis Spirit spinning and sparking with golden-silver mes! Even his sacred power began to burn!

    "My Five Decays has been triggered as well?"

    It was only the beginning, but Yun Xiao had an ominous premonition. At this moment, everyone was thrust into the furnace of Heavenly Decay; it was not a good time!

    "What exactly do the Three Immortals intend to do?" Yun Xiao stared intently ahead, his eyes filled with endless screams of agony and burning figures.

    They convulsed, frothing at the mouth, regardless of gender, age, or frailty, each like a piece of kindling ignited, burning themselves to illuminate the heavens and the earth!

    Yun Xiao wanted to do something, but the moment he moved, the mes of the primordial sacred power within his Dantian zed even more fiercely.

    "Ugh..." He too began to feel this agony, a truly inhuman torment! The fire of decay spread from the Nine Heavens Star Meridians within his Dantian, then swept across his entire body, erupting into mes!

    At this moment, Yun Xiao''s burning eyes beheld the human inferno before him, and his rage soared to its peak! He had grown beyond the limits of humanity, yet at this moment, he still felt powerless.

    To say nothing of taking action, under the ravages of the Five Decays, he had a premonition that this was only the beginning, ignited by a mere spark... Who knew to what extent it would escte?

    Yun Xiao had detected a hint of something terrifying, as if something special had locked onto him!

    At this moment, he was virtually immobilized! As if targeted by a colossal beast of heaven and earth, any movement might lead to cataclysm.

    "The Three Immortals!"

    "Three Immortals, save us!"

    "True immortals, save the world, deliver all beings..."

    Those people, engulfed in the furnace, had not given up hope. They fervently ced their faith in the sacred figures of the Three Immortals in their hearts!

    Amidst their cries, they reached out, touching the shadow of their faith in the air. At that moment, the Three Immortals, as if illuminated by divine light, appeared before them.

    Indeed, one by one, the expressionless powerhouses of the Immortal path swept across the sky, bringing new hope.

    In the endless darkness, the masses finally saw a glimmer of dawn.

    These people with white eyes were the descendants of the Three Immortals!

    As they sped past, wearing expressions ofpassionate sorrow, they proimed, ¡°Lian Xi and Yun Xiao, two fiendish beings, have angered the heavens, bringing down divine punishment. Innocent beings are suffering as a consequence!¡±

    Hearing these words, the people enduring the suffering wept blood from their eyes, their anger causing nosebleeds to flow profusely.

    ¡°The Three Immortals, empathizing with the suffering of all beings, have pleaded with the heavens. The Celestial Court has granted the Ascension Technique, which can help endure this divine punishment!¡±

    Again, the solemn voice of the immortal descendants swept across the city.

    ¡°Ascension Technique!!¡±

    Despairing crowds within the furnace suddenly brightened up, as moths drawn to me, their bodies trembling with excitement.

    ¡°Practice! Practice!¡±

    Clenching their teeth, they began to sit in meditation right there within the Primordial Pagoda, their faces solemn, eyes brimming with sanctity and devotion.

    ¡°The Three Immortals have descended to eliminate disasters and evils, rescuing and relieving the suffering¡­¡±

    ¡°By practicing this technique, transcend the Five Decays, embark on the path to immortality, ascend in broad daylight, transform into Immortals, eternal and undying!¡±

    As the technique was circted, the cmitous fires dissipated.

    In an instant, those within the furnace felt as if they had ascended to the clouds!

    The fierce mes on their bodies vanished abruptly, and smiles of satisfaction appeared on the faces of tens of millions, as if they were in a paradise, their souls lightened¡­N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ¡°Three Immortals! Three Immortals!¡±

    Tears welled up in the eyes of the masses. Moved to the core, even their nostrils trembled and resonated, their cries sobbing, tears streaming from their eyes like fountains, scattering around to extinguish the fires of Heavenly Decay.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>White smoke began to rise from their bodies, with millions of wisps ascending towards the sky, as if the whole world was offering incense, converging above the Primordial Pagoda!

    Blissfully engaged in cultivation, they were oblivious to the fact that practicing this Ascension Technique did not halt the aging of their flesh or the depletion of their vitality.

    The rising smoke signified their fading lives.

 Chapter 458: Heaven and Earth Rejoice!

    Chapter 458: Heaven and Earth Rejoice!

    "Quick! Start practicing the Ascension Technique now!"

    Within the confines of the Mystic Zenith Temple, over 100,000 students and Sacred Sagesy on the ground, writhing in agony as they endured the devastating force of impending doom. The anguish was palpable, and for many ensnared within the realm of five decays, the next tier of cmity was unwittingly invoked.

    Some were reduced to ashes on the spot, a sight horrifying to witness.

    Screams echoed¡ªa mix of pain, panic, and despair shrouding the hearts of all.

    In that moment of chaos, a young man d in golden robes named Tian Chen descended, his expression solemn. He called out, rallying the disciples with a voice that cut through the despair, "Yun Xiao alone has ughtered tens of thousands, provoking the heavens to unleash this catastrophe, bringing suffering to all beings!

    "The Primordial Ruins face this adversity yet again. Only through the Ascension Technique can we evade divine punishment and distinguish ourselves from the evil fiends. Why hesitate to practice?"

    As Tian Chen sat down, encircled by mes, he began to recite the technique. Miraculously, the fire of decay surrounding him vanished, reced by thick plumes of white smoke rising into the air.

    "Practice! Practice!" Many, in their agony, followed suit and sat down to practice.

    "You mustn''t! It''s a cursed technique!" Yue Molin, tears streaming down his face, desperately warned the new friends beside him.

    "You can choose not to practice, but don''t disturb others!"

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    "That fiend is adept at ndering the true saints! You witnessed Yun Xiao''s massacre, yet you believe the disaster is due to the Three Immortals? Do you believe in the All-Life Devouring Gu? Have you seen it with your own eyes?"

    "Everyone has organisms living within them! And look, aren''t we all fine?"

    Yue Molin copsed, tears flooding his eyes, "No, don''t..."

    But his pleas fell on deaf ears as seventy percent of the disciples had already begun their practice, their agony reced with blissful smiles. As they aged more rapidly, it seemed as though a straw had been inserted into their veins, draining their lifeblood away.

    Theyughed joyously, their arms open wide as if to embrace a faith that didn''t exist in the void.

    "Where is the All-Life Devouring Gu?" theyughed in unison.

    Lil Xiu, hidden in a corner, trembled as she witnessed the scene, her throat burning, unable to speak, only capable of shedding tears.

    "Where does this white smoke go?" she wondered, lifting her gaze only to see countless streams of white smoke converging above the Primordial Pagoda in the sky.

    Above, a vast white vortex had already formed, enveloping the Primordial Pagoda in its immense swirl. Within this swirling maelstrom, Lil Xiu could barely make out a silver figure towering hundreds of feet tall, its chest adorned with a face that smiled with a tender mercy...

    "Mystic Earth Immortal..." Her lips quivered as she uttered the name, copsing to the ground, her face ashen.

    "Mystic Earth Immortal! His divine might covers the world, his runicws supreme, safeguarding all living beings on their paths!"

    The entirety of the Primordial Ruins fell into a fervor as if reborn from disasters. Millions, with eyes bloodshot, fervently shouted towards the silhouette in the sky, their voices hoarse from their cries.

    Unaware of their faces aging, their youth slipping away, they saw only the light in the darkness.

    At the moment the Mystic Earth Immortal appeared, the Ascension Technique was practiced fervently. The minds of the people turned to magma, bubbling with the heat, their smiles blooming with an eerie bliss.

    Sizzling sounds filled the air as white, fervent smoke nketed the sky and earth, obscuring the heavens!

    And there, the Mystic Earth Immortal, like a giant silverrva, coiled above, its abyss-like maw gaping wide, devouring everything in massive gulps.

    "Mystic Earth Immortal, ah, so majestic!"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Immortal, Immortal, Immortal..."

    The people sunk into a deep sea of fervor, forever smiling in their bliss.

    And Yun Xiao stood atop a high building, overseeing it all.

    "Man! This is great! So freakin'' great!!" Blue Star eximed, throwing his stubby little hands in the air. "Let''s leave; there''s no saving this ce."

    Yun Xiao said nothing, taking a step forward. <em>BUZZ! </em>The fire of decay on him erupted, consuming his body in an instant, his skin charred ck.

    "He''s absorbed the power of all living beings. There''s no doubt he''s nning to use this power to break through the Primordial Pagoda. It''s toote. The incarnation of transcending cmity still hasn''t fully merged with the Pagoda. Even if you go now, you cannot stop him! At this moment, the Mystic Earth Immortal is invincible!" Blue Star warned.

    Yun Xiao took another step forward. <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>The fire on him intensified tenfold.

    "Stop moving, another step, and the consequences will be more severe than thest Wind Fire Tribtion. You''ll invoke the wrath of the Great Decay meant to eliminate any anomalies in the Dao Realm," Blue Star cautioned.

    The specter of the Great Decay loomed, its force of decay sweeping over him, igniting his primordial sacred power. Yun Xiao, at this moment, bore a torment ten times greater than any other, and Blue Star''s words echoed¡ªa tribtion wrought by the Great Decay could be 1,000, even 10,000 times worse, akin to the previous Wind Fire Tribtion that razed a third of the Demon Continent.

    The celestial alignment today, unexpected and abrupt, threw Yun Xiao''s ns into disarray, nudging him perilously close to the abyss of life and death.

    Meanwhile, the Mystic Earth Immortal became invincible.

    With the life force of tens of millions, he descended from the heavens as a silver colossus, his indifference chilling. His god-like, pallid eyes unleashed beams of light upon the Primordial Pagoda.

    The fervor of the multitude, their powers willingly offered to aid the Mystic Earth Immortal, became a battle cry: "To exterminate the fiends, we unite in purpose!"

    "Destroy! Destroy!"

    "To purge the blight and end the suffering, from heaven to earth, let there be no more disasters!"

    The deafening roars, alongside the Mystic Earth Immortal, shook the very foundation of the Primordial Pagoda. That ancient edifice, steadfast for centuries, now quivered, its brilliant lights dimming.

    Within the pagoda, Dean Yu, along with thest defenders, marshaled their strength, enduring the wrathful fury of millions. Was manipting the masses futile? This moment revealed the terrifying efficacy of such a strategy.

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    For the first time, Dean Yu and herpanions faced an unimaginable tactic. Under the centuries-long scheme of the Three Immortals, they found themselves at the brink of an abyss.

    "A century-long scheme, aimed not just at defeating Lian Xi but at destroying the Primordial Pagoda."

    This was the divine artifact the Three Immortals truly feared.

    "Hold on..." Dean Yu, her white hair billowing, her eyes red, focused on a sphere of white light at the pinnacle of the pagoda. Within this light, a snow-white maiden with closed eyes floated, her brows furrowed in distress, her body alight with the same fire of decay that nearly matched Yun Xiao''s.

    "The Primordial Mother of the Dao, the Primordial Mother of Dao..."

    Whispers of despair floated around, a mournful echo amidst the chaos.

    The tragic plight of the people, reflected on the inner walls of the Primordial Pagoda, was a harrowing sight to behold.

    In the heart of the white light, Lian Xi''s eyes betrayed her as tears cascaded down, a silent testament to the turmoil within.

    The Primordial Pagoda quaked with an intensity that foretold its doom. Stone pirs fractured, walls split, and the roars of thousands outside pierced the defenders'' very souls, their battle prowess diminished by the mes of celestial decay.

    The alignment of sun and moon, bolstered by the will of the masses, waged a war against the pagoda, a beacon of humanity''s spirit, now emitting a mournful cry reminiscent of the Sword Dao Monument toppled by the disciples of the Grand Temple.

    The chillingughter of the Mystic Earth Immortal crept into every ear, an insidious whisper that mocked their plight.

    Silver specters flickered outside the pagoda''s windows, theirughter taunting, "Dean Yu, you preach of inherent goodness, of confusion among the masses... Yet today proves your ignorance of human nature.

    "You argued against killing those misled into aiding malicious forces, yet now, those very people threaten your precious academy''s legacy. Dare you not lift a hand against them?"

    Their voices, ghostly echoes intertwined with the Pagoda''s dirges, stabbed at the heart like countless des.

    "Silence, vermin!" Dean Yu clenched her teeth, her energy pouring into the Primordial Pagoda, bearing the brunt of the Mystic Earth Immortal''s assault as if each strike battered her own body.

    She spat ck blood, her skin cracking open to reveal wounds that mirrored the tower''s own.

    Herpanions, d in white, grew pallid, blood streaming from noses and ears, some copsing under the invisible weight.

    "Sister, is there still a chance for us?" Feng Qingcong, bloodied and weak, asked with a trembling voice.

    "Yes! Hold on! Wait for the people''s energy to wane, wait for Lian Xi to merge with the Pagoda!" Dean Yu''s reply was a roar of defiance.

    "We cannot lose. If we do, the Primordial Ruins, the myriad worlds, will have no tomorrow, just like the Oblivion Demon Sea¡ªwhere only the Dreamsea Abalones thrive, and all other demons are but corpses living in illusion."

    The harsh reality of the Oblivion Demon Sea, where dreams were the final refuge, chilled every defender to the bone.

    The Primordial Ruins and the myriad worlds, far more vast than the Oblivion Demon Sea, teemed with life a millionfold...

    "Hold on!"

    But the coldughter of the Mystic Earth Immortal turned mocking. "Ah, you still fail to grasp the terrifying power of judgment brought forth by the life sacrifices of tens of millions, each burning a decade of their lifespan for me..."

    No sooner had the words left his lips than a thunderous boom echoed. The Primordial Pagoda, a monument to humanity that had stood for many millennia, shattered under the assault of lifespans sacrificed, its pieces scattering across the heavens and earth, bing but relics of history.

    "Hahaha!" the cries rose, "The stronghold of those fiends is obliterated!"

    "Celebrate, for heaven and earth rejoice!"

    Laughter, feverish and overwhelming, swept through like a tsunami.

    Dean Yu and the others, blood spewing from their mouths, copsed in defeat, their eyes dimming with despair.

    "No..." The white-haired woman, wiping blood from her face, rose as if possessed, surrounded by countless beings who looked upon her with utter loathing.

    "Look, Dean Yu has lost her mind."

    "Such a fool of a woman, hrious!"

    "Rumors say she dallied with her disciples daily, might as well have me have a go."

    And in the heavens...

    "Lian Xi!" Dean Yu looked up, trembling.

    Within the white vortex, a silver colossus descended, its maw wide open.

    With a gulp, the unconscious girl within the white light was swallowed whole.

    The Mystic Earth Immortal, covering his face,ughed wickedly. "Spread the word through the myriad world, in an hour, at the front of the Jade Immortal Tower in the Primordial Ruins, I will burn the child of disaster, Lian Xi, to affirm the moral order!"

    Countless cultivators of the Primordial Ruins raised their arms in excitement, apuding.

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    "We''ve won!"

    "Justice may be dyed, but it never fails to arrive!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 459: A Pair of Fiends Reclaimed by the Heavens!

    Chapter 459: A Pair of Fiends Reimed by the Heavens!

    In a spectacle that was destined to sear itself into the memory of every soul within the Primordial Ruins for thousands of years, she was to be burned alive for all to see. This act would echo across countless worlds, marking the final chapter in a saga of vanquishing evil.

    With this pyre, Lian Xi was to be cast into the abyss of sin, much like the ancestors of the Martial Emperor n before her. Branded a disaster, she was doomed to never rise again.

    "Lian Xi!"

    The defenders who stood by Lian Xi, d in white robes, wept blood and tears as their rage erupted like moltenva. With the shattering of the Primordial Pagoda, they were left with no retreat. To step back was to plunge into a hell of blood and fire.

    "Save her!"

    With a cry of sorrow and fury, they soared into the skies, white robes billowing and immortal power bursting forth, chasing after the Mystic Earth Immortal.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Are these fiend''s minions still refusing to see reason? Where are the guardians of justice?" the Mystic Earth Immortal coldly proimed.

    "To protect the Three Immortals, to ughter the disaster''s hounds!"

    Hearing this, the crowd''s eyes zed with fury. Millions, stirred by a righteous fervor, charged forth, forming a flesh barrier in front of those in white robes.

    "Brethren, hand in hand, let''s build a wall of life to protect the true way of heaven and earth!"

    Moved to tears by the descendants of the Three Immortals, the beings of the Primordial Ruins joined hands, creating a vast human to shield from those in white.

    One by one, theses formed a barricade. Behind it stood countless people, their courage and spirit of sacrifice moving them to tears, as they roared in defiance.

    "For the peace of all worlds for generations toe, I am willing to die!"

    "Kill me! Behind my corpse, stand millions more like me!"

    "Come then, kill!"

    Their roars, filled with desperation and determination, echoed. sping the hands of theirrades, they advanced towards those in white, their sheer numbers forming an iron cage that trapped them in ce.

    "Sister, let''s fight our way through!" Yun Dahe''s face twisted in agony as he roared, his mind nearly exploding with rage.

    "They are but hosts to parasites, their wills overtaken, innocent..." Dean Yu was not one to hesitate. Her resolve was steel when she faced Yuan Xianjun and his ilk, showing no mercy.

    But facing these mind-controlled civilians of the Primordial Ruins, who could truly call for blood without a tremble in their heart?

    Above them all, theughter of the Mystic Earth Immortal rang out, unbridled and mocking.

    To him, Dean Yu and herpanions were never truly contenders. The gulf between them was too vast; perhaps, in his eyes, the game had ended with the destruction of the Primordial Pagoda.

    The dismantling of the Primordial Pagoda, despite the long preparation, proved effortless. Far easier than the trials within the Immortal Asylum or the ventures into the Blood Devil Ruins.

    "Invincibility brings its own solitude," the Mystic Earth Immortal murmured with a sigh.

    Where once the Primordial Pagoda stood, now there was but a fleshly sphere, encapsting tens of thousands who faced death with defiance. Within, the so-called adversary was pitifully weak and despondent, a sight too pathetic for words.

    "Dull!" His gaze shifted to the girl within the sphere of white light, her integration interrupted and wounded. Shey there, pale and barely breathing, as pitiful as a sickly white cat.

    "Life is as fleeting as duckweed, of what use is it to be chosen by fate? In this realm, we Three Immortals are the heavens!" he dered,ughing coldly.

    "Another little monster?"

    His gaze turned colder still as he locked onto Yun Xiao.

    "Hmm?" He noticed the young man being consumed by the fire of decay. Amidst the gold and silver mes, his eyes, cold and indifferent as the decrees of fate, stared back unwaveringly.

    "What sins has this boymitted to suffer such a potent doom? Withoutying a finger on him, he''s already on the brink. Amusing..." The Mystic Earth Immortal smirked.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao took a step forward. Boom! The power of Heavenly Decay swirled madly towards him, fueling the inferno that ravaged his flesh, bones, and skin. His skin aged, turned to ash at a visible pace, emitting thick ck smoke as deadly mes shot up a hundred feet high.

    "Such fatal decay would have killed anyone else several times over by now," the Mystic Earth Immortal mused, still smirking at the spectacle, aware that Yun Xiao''s self-destruction could notst.

    As expected, Yun Xiao took ten more steps towards him.

    "Hey, hey, hey, what the hell! He''s lost it, gone mad!" Blue Star, who had attempted to hold Yun Xiao back, waspletely dumbfounded.

    Just a few steps had ignited mes reaching a hundred feet; to dare ten more was unthinkable.

    "Uh oh¡­!!" Red Moon said, tongue lolling, looking up at the sky.

    In that tumultuous moment, the sky itself seemed to rupture with a deafening explosion that left everyone staggered, seeing stars, as if a sack of steel had smacked them on the back of their heads, noses bleeding profusely.

    They looked up in shock to see a massive hole sted open in the heavens, as if the sky had exploded. Around this gaping void, tens of thousands of fissures spread across the sky, painting a picture of devastation.

    From the dark red abyss and its fissures, blood-red rain began to fall, as if heralding a celestial catastrophe.

    Suddenly, a terrifying presence descended upon the Primordial Ruins, ttening nearly everyone but the Mystic Earth Immortal to the ground, whether they were lying, kneeling, or sprawling!

    "What''s this?" The Mystic Earth Immortal furrowed his brow deeply.

    Another thunderous noise echoed.

    With the sound, a several hundred-meter-long, blood-colored hand reached out from the hole.

    For a moment, every soul in the ruins trembled in fear.

    Through the bloody mist, they could just make out a colossal shadow behind the void, several thousand meters tall, with shoulders adorned by five fearsome, fanged heads. Each of the fingers extending from the hand had an eye on it!

    "What in the world is this..."

    Tens of millions witnessed this scene, struck dumb.

    Their astonishment proved that, despite being under the sway of the All-Life Devouring Gu, they retained their sense of self, capable of surprise and shock.

    "An order has been given, to sweep away the anomaly, to maintain the order of the Dao."

    As the inhabitants of the Primordial Ruins stood dazed, a booming voice filled the air, leaving everyone bewildered.

    Then, the blood-colored hand swept down, urately seizing a young man engulfed by the fire of decay. Encased as if by mountains formed of fingers, he was gripped tightly, unable to move.

    "Swept clean!" The thunderous roar echoed through the heavens as the giant hand, after making its deration, retracted back into the bloody void, and the colossal figure with five heads vanished into thin air.

    Crackling and buzzing, the shattered sky began to mend itself, as if by magic. In moments, neither crack nor hole remained, reced by a clear, bright expanse.

    The onlookers were stunned, as if they had witnessed an illusion. Aside from bleeding ears, they werergely unaffected.

    Then, the crowd noticed the only change.

    "The fiend has been taken!"

    "Hahaha!"

    "It proves the old saying true; the wicked will be swept away by heaven!"

    "Heaven''s intervention confirms that this murderer was a dire gue upon the world!"

    "Justice served!"

    After the fall of Lian Xi, this was the second piece of great news today, even more dramatic, validating the righteousness of some. It sparked a frenzied celebration among the masses.

    "A pair of fiends, both reimed by heaven!"

    "To see the murderer smitten by divine wrath, and then the cmity bearer endure eternal fire, what a delight!"

    From the gleeful and relieved looks among the crowd, it was clear: it was all over.

    Yun Xiao might have been a beacon of hope for Dean Yu and others. But this catastrophic event struck them with renewed force, shattering any lingering hopes in the harsh reality of their situation.

    "Dean Yu, it''s time to flee, leave this ce, never to return¡­" an elder in white robes cried.

    "Silence!" Dean Yu''s eyes zed red.

    "The minions of those fiends think to flee? Brothers, exterminate them!"

    "To arms!"

    The jubnt crowd surged forward again, driven by a frenzied desire for vengeance.

    Under the watch of the sun and moon, mists rose over the Primordial Ruins, and tens of millions of contorted faces screamed in celebration, heralding the era they longed for.

 Chapter 460: Regressed Into a Demon!

    Chapter 460: Regressed Into a Demon!

    In the shadowed depths of the Immortal Asylum, at the heart of the first floor where the crevices cut deepest, the ground itself roared to life. A skinless beast, teetering at death''s door, mmed a paw against the earth, stirring the Immortal Asylum into a violent tremor.

    "Why the hell are you making a racket? Weren''t we supposed to be in disguise?" the Nian grumbled at its own belly, spitting curses.

    "Disguise be damned! Now''s the time to break free, immediately, without dy! There''s no better moment than now!" The silver-white veins thatced its body, spreading throughout its flesh, bellowed from within.

    "Are you joking with me?" A cold light flickered through the beast''s eyeless gaze.

    With a thunderous boom, even as the words left its mouth, its form surged upright, its eyes, or where they would be, locked onto the cracks beyond with fierce determination.

    "What the hell?" The beast was baffled.

    Its body seemed to rebel, no longer under its control.

    Caught in its confusion, its form suddenly burst forth with terrifying speed. The silver-white veins, having feasted on countless deste Gu, sprouted anew, branching out a hundredfold, spreading like the roots of a colossal tree through the beast''s nerves, into its bones, brain, and viscera...

    "AHH! AHHH! AHHHH!!" The Nian''s mind reeled, "You vile creature, you''re corrupting my form! I am a creature of the divine path, not some lowly demon!"

    "Nonsense, this body is mine now. Your part in this is over."

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    Moon Fairy growled lowly, paying no further heed. Its power of Divine Destion swept through the Nian, a maelstrom of demonic energy transforming its body in an upheaval as profound as the upheaval of worlds.

    With a sizzling sound, its bare flesh began to sprout skin, and then, astonishingly, silver luminescent fur, as an overwhelming demonic aura enveloped its form.

    "Ah, I don''t want to be a furry..." the Nian wailed in despair. But its cries were in vain. Moon Fairy, having devoured so many deste Gu, had waited for this moment.

    Crackling with the sound of snapping branches, a silver-white demonic mist swirled and rose. The massive and brutal form of the skinless Nian, under the sweeping force of Divine Destion, transformed into a new Divine Destion Physique. Its former guise, reminiscent of lions, tigers, and leopards, gradually shifted into that of another creature entirely¡ªa fox.

    With a sizzle, six grand and slender fox tails emerged from its rear, their silver luminescence illuminating the heavens and the earth.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Ugh..." The Nian felt as if it''d been struck by lightning.

    "No, damn you!" It screamed in madness, its curses fading into whispers, and then to silence, confined within its own form. For by then, even the sovereignty over its own voice had been usurped by Moon Fairy.

    "I am the beast of cmity, unmatched and tyrannical! And you''ve turned me into a fox? This outrage, this vition of my lineage!" the Nian cried out in anguish.

    "Is that so?" Moon Fairy''s voice was a cold whisper, a smile lurking in its tone. "Perhaps, in the end, you''ll find fortune in this transformation."

    "Ah, curse it all!" The Nian trembled with fury.

    Ignoring its protest, Moon Fairy initiated the final metamorphosis with the Will of Divine Destion. The once skinless creature leapt into the air, transforming splendidly until itnded as a six-tailed silver fox, its fur shimmering like perfect pearls.

    Yet, it was not entirely a fox. Within its brows lingered the ferocity and tyranny of its former self, a mane of silver-white fur around its neck invoking the majesty of a lion. Its teeth were like des, its ws thick and sharp, and the fur on its tails stood erect like steel needles!

    "No! I, too, wish to see the world outside!"

    Unwilling to ept defeat, the Nian writhed, controlling whatever it could, its powerful will causing a tumult within Moon Fairy''s veins. Their blood intertwined in a chaotic dance.

    As a creature that defied the heavens, the Nian''s essence was formidable. In this sh of bloodlines, it concentrated all its remaining essence into a pair of dull yellow eyes!

    With a tear, these eyes forcefully emerged above the silver orbs of the six-tailed fox. Smaller than the silver eyes, these dull yellow orbs were like two wells of the underworld, holding the unyielding grudge of the beast.

    And so, it gained a view of the world beyond.

    "You''ve transformed me into this?" The Nian wanted to bleed from frustration.

    With a hiss, the six-tailed silver fox ignored it, its howl reaching the skies, a sound fit for the sovereign of all demons, yeting from a fox.

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    "Fascinating..." Beyond the crevice, a figure in golden robes witnessed it all, eyes wide with disbelief.

    <em>WHOOSH!</em> Moon Fairy''s silver eyes, cold and detached, suddenly locked onto the figure.

    With a hum, the six-tailed silver fox underwent a startling transformation amidst rising mists, morphing into a silver-haired being. With hair cascading like a waterfall, a slender figure ambiguous in gender, and an eeriness that chilled to the bone, this being possessed fox ears, canine teeth, sharp ws at the fingertips, and six bushy fox tails trailing behind.

    With a tear, the beast, unwilling to be outdone, also manifested a pair of dull yellow eyes beneath the silver-haired being''s own, greedily gazing upon the world outside.

    This Moon Fairy, now more bizarre and terrifying, sent shivers down the spine of any onlooker.

    The Nian''s supreme Seed of Creation, melded almost perfectly with the Divine Destion Physique at this moment,ying a new foundation for Yun Xiao''s body double!

    "Demon!" The figure in the golden robe watched in utter shock. "You, a divine beast of the Dao, have willingly degraded to a lowly demon! You are a disgrace to your kind!"

    "Mind your own business, pest!" Moon Fairy''s four eyes red fiercely.

    With a buzz, now in human form and unobstructed, he charged forward like a force of nature, breaking free from the prison that had held the Nian for countless years in a mere instant.

    "Ah, I''m free! I am finally free!" The Nian''s dull yellow eyes screamed in exhration. Despite the earlier despair, this moment of liberation ignited a tumultuous change within.

    "You dare turn into a demon, abandoning your very bloodline. From now on, you shall be frail as a reed..." The man in the golden robe was cut off mid-sentence as Moon Fairy suddenly collided with him.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The man was sent flying, crashing into the walls of the Immortal Asylum, which then dented and cracked, spider-webbing with thousands of fractures.

    With a swish, Moon Fairy did not linger, darting towards the exit of the Immortal Asylum.

    "Thinking of escaping? You''re already broken!" The voice of the man in the golden robe followed, hauntingly. As he spoke, countless butterflies ignited into mes, attacking Moon Fairy.

    "United in purpose, we both can find a way out," Moon Fairy said.

    "Enough talk, I''m off to see the world!" The beast was bursting with excitement. United in heart and mind, their new form braved through the barrage of countless butterflies, shooting out like a bolt of lightning.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Atst, Moon Fairy burst forth from the Immortal Asylum! Though countless butterfly formations stilly ahead, he and the beast had truly returned to the world.

    In that moment, tears streamed from the dull yellow eyes on his face.

    "The Nian descends upon the human realm!" It howled.

    "Shut your howling!" Moon Fairy growled, suddenly shifting from the silver-haired being into the immense Six-Tailed Demon Fox, then casting a cold gaze from his silver-white eyes towards the heavens.

    "Mystic Earth Immortal!" With a roar, the six-tailed silver fox transformed into a beam of silver fire and divine light, as swift as a ray, crashing into the butterfly formation!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With that collision, the monument surrounding the Immortal Asylum shattered, and the entire formation fell apart.

    "The world outside..." The Nian gazed greedily at the surrounding foliage and mountains, tears filling its eyes once again. But Moon Fairy had no time for sentiments! He cut through the heavens, racing towards the sky.

    And just then, a golden light surged from within the Immortal Asylum, chasing after Moon Fairy with furious speed.

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    "nning to stir trouble in the Primordial Ruins?

    "Little demon, you cannot escape from my grasp..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 461: When the Nian Descends, All Beings Suffer

    Chapter 461: When the Nian Descends, All Beings Suffer

    A silver giant, soaring through clouds and mist, became a streak of silver light, rushing towards the sky!

    Tearing through the celestial clouds, the divine ark that floated in the azure expanse loomed everrger in view. The ovepping sun and moon on it dazzled with blinding brilliance, enshrouding the Primordial Ruins in a halo of sanctity.

    Behind this silver behemoth trailed a sword-like golden radiance. The silver beast was fast, yet unexpectedly, this golden light tore through the air, keeping pace, impossible to shake off.

    But evasion was futile, for the man in the golden robe was the Sky Source Immortal; he knew exactly where the beast was headed.

    All along, he uttered not a word, only letting out sinisterughs, shadowing his prey like a relentless specter. However, mid-chase, the golden-robed man''sughter abruptly ceased.

    He stopped dead in his tracks, his pale eyes looking down to see ayer of eerie white mist enveloping the skies above the Nine Hells, with fleeting lights and shadows within, ever-changing and unfathomable.

    "A mirage?" The man in the golden robe''s brow furrowed deeply, and he erupted in anger.

    "You use the Nian as a front, but your real target is the Immortal Asylum?"

    With this thought, he flung out a talisman, which split in two, flying towards both the Blood Devil Ruins and the Primordial Ruins.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The cold gaze he cast towards the direction of the departing Six-Tailed Demon Fox before turning and plunging back into the Nine Hells spoke volumes. To them, the Immortal Asylum held utmost importance!

    Even if the Nian escaped to the Primordial Ruins, he wasn''t worried!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The vast silver beast roared in the void, its silver-white eyes seeping dense bloodlines.

    It plunged into the golden and silver mists of the ruins like a cmity descending.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    A sea of people had gathered around the Jade Immortal Tower. As if called by a mission, the popce of the entire Primordial Ruins, even if crawling, made their way here.

    Tens of millions gathered on the nearby streets, so crowded that arms couldn''t be lifted, a testament to the throng''s density.

    From above, the crowd was a dense, dark mass. In such conditions, a single spell cast down could have reaped a grim harvest. Yet, no one dared. After all, they were all souls gathered there.

    "y the child of disaster, usher in renewal!"

    The people stretched their necks like ducks, their screams hoarse, veins bulging on necks and faces, exhaling dense white mists.

    The mists, serpent-like, weaved from one mouth to another''s nostrils, forming colossal snakes of fog that writhed above the heads of the crowd in a frenzied dance. But the people paid no mind; their gazes were fixed in one direction.

    It was toward the execution tform in front of the Jade Immortal Tower!

    There, apass stood, from which ropes of the eight trigrams bound a young girl in a white dress. Herplexion was ashen, her eyes shut, her form frail and lifeless, the sharp ropes etching bloody marks on her delicate body.

    A tsunami of curses crashed over her, her eyshes quivered, awakening into a blur. She hadn''t seen it yet, but tears had already formed at the corners of her eyes.

    "Light the Immortal Fire! Burn her!"

    "Let the disaster burn to ashes, and all things be made anew!"

    The frenzied crowd''s eyes were bloodshot with rage, their pupils dted, Gu parasites writhing within.

    To maintain order, the Three Great Ruins summoned every descendant of the Three Immortals, a total of 100,000, forming a vast circle around the tform!

    Without them, the enraged masses would have stormed the tform.

    Within this circle, the elite stood¡ªManor Masters, Celestial Officials, and nobility from all corners, totaling over 1,000, all of them Yin-Yang Immortals.

    The core power of the Three Immortals was gathered not only to keep order but to prevent any from disrupting the execution.

    And with Yun Xiao swept away by heavenly intervention, and the Primordial Pagoda shattered, any upset was unlikely.

    The Mystic Earth Immortal had orchestrated this spectacle for one purpose: to annihte Lian Xi''s life and mission before all, to die a criminal, thereby reinforcing the faith of the masses.

    Such a scene could unleash a more fervent toxin.

    Upon the tform, the offspring of the Three Immortals, Tian Ding, Xuan Jian, and Jian Mei, presided like three towering mountains.

    Below, Manor Masters and Celestial Officials among 100,000 descendants smiled with pride at the fervor of tens of millions.

    "The Mystic Earth Immortal decrees an execution of fire tost for ages, tomence forthwith!"

    "This execution employs the most venomous fires from all corners of the world, first to burn the skin, then the inneryers, followed by the flesh, the sinews and bones, and the internal organs, from the outside in, until finally consuming the soul of the sinner!"

    "This punishment shallst ten days and ten nights!"

    "May the heavens witness this act, judge the crimes of the afflicted, and cleanse the innocent of the popce!"

    A chorus of voices swept over the dense crowd.

    "Burn! Burn! Burn!"

    Tens of millions screamed with all their might, as if to unleash all their grievances and fury.

    Above the masses, a figure in a silver robe hovered above the tform. His hair flew about him, his face wore a smile, his demeanor gentle, like a True Immortal from the paintingse to relieve the suffering of the world.

    "The burningmences¡­"

    In a dark room not far away, a figure in a gray robe stood by the window. His eyes trembled, rimmed red, gazing at the girl in white on thepass, waking in confusion.

    "Shen Cang."

    Behind the man in gray, stood a hundred others in white robes. Yu Nichang, Yun Dahe, and others were present. Each bore stains of blood, though whose it was remained unclear. Especially Yu Nichang, whose white hair had turned blood-red.

    The one called Shen Cang turned, his gaze fixed, his voice grave, "We have but one chance, a sliver of hope! I will draw away the Mystic Earth Immortal, the rest is up to you!"

    "Agreed!" Yu Nichang nodded.

    Those behind her bore a resolve to face death without fear. Having escaped the Primordial Academy to hide here, their sole obsession was to save Lian Xi! Even if it meant death.

    As long as Lian Xi survived, there was still hope for the myriad worlds!

    "I''m certain to die, but I hope to buy you enough time. And you... will face opponents with many times our strength..." Shen Cang''s voice trembled as he looked at each one of them.

    "Old Shen, speaking such words has no meaning now. Whether we live or die, let''s fight with all we''ve got!"

    "Fearless of death itself, what more is there to fear?"

    A wild fire of belief zed within them, their eyes fixed only on the girl atop the execution tform, like moths to a me. But this me was not one of despair; it was the dream that could change the mortal realm.

    "Friends! Even if today our blood dries here and our souls struggle to reincarnate, some endeavors, once striven for, leave us with no regrets in our lifetimes!" Shen Cang turned back, bowing deeply to them.

    Few of these robed figures were known by name to the world. They lurked in the shadows, silently guarding the hope in their hearts. This was a mission with no monument, perhaps even scorned for ages, but at this moment, these nameless daoists only saw the me of hope!

    "Friends, in the next life, let''s discuss the Dao again." With that, Shen Cang vanished from their sight.

    In the next instant, a dark grey inferno was born from the heavens above.

    <em>ROAR! </em>The grey ze turned white, shaping into a massive tiger-shaped figure that charged at the Mystic Earth Immortal, unleashing a thunderous punch!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Above, thunder and lightning converged, a thousand tigers and leopards roared in unison, striking at the Mystic Earth Immortal.

    "Hm?" The Mystic Earth Immortal paused, casually blocking, countless silver butterflies swirling to form a barrier against the white tiger''s fiery storm!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Under the force of the explosion, the butterfly wall shattered, and he was driven back!

    The crowd gasped in shock. The Mystic Earth Immortal, a True Immortal in the hearts of tens of millions, was pushed back? Such an act could shake the very foundations of faith!

    "Among the descendants of the Martial Emperor n, there exists such a powerhouse?" The Mystic Earth Immortal suddenly looked up, his mouth stretching into a bizarre smile.

    "Another afflicted!"

    "An old one, at that!"

    "Seize him, burn him!"

    The roar of anger surged once again.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Mystic Earth Immortal summoned a sky full of butterflies, charging towards the white tiger figure.

    Such overwhelming force stunned the onlookers.

    The white tiger figure dodged, retreating from the Mystic Earth Immortal''s onught, the fight moving further and further away.

    "I''m just ying with him; you can light the Immortal Fire now," the Mystic Earth Immortal''s voice echoed from afar,den with mockery.

    "Bymand, light the Immortal Fire!" Tian Ding, Xuan Jian, and Jian Mei announced with vigor.

    Behind them, Lian Xi''s eyes regained rity. She looked around at the world of men, her gaze gradually bing hollow.

    "Act now!"

    In the dark room, Yu Nichang and the others were about to rush out. But at that instant, a terrifying presence descended upon the crowded ce.

    "Eh?" Tian Ding, Xuan Jian, and Jian Mei were momentarily taken aback.

    "Look to the skies!"

    A soul-shaking scream abruptly tore through the air. As heads tilted upward, a beastly roar that struck fear at the very core echoed from above, sending chills down the spines of many on the spot!

    They saw it! Amidst a burst of light, a massive silver beast crashed down upon the execution tform!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The tform shattered instantly, with silver smoke and debris sweeping across, the ground cracking open and sending shockwaves that toppled millions, including the Jade Immortal Tower itself crashing down!

    "What is that?!"

    People, bruised and bleeding from the collision, saw through the dense smoke a fearsome beast howling skyward, its power of disaster swirling in the twilight.

    "The Nian! It''s the Nian!"

    This cry sent a wave of terror through the tens of millions of frenzied people, a fear that momentarily overshadowed their faith in the Mystic Earth Immortal!

    The 100,000 descendants of the Three Immortals, along with the thousands of Yin-Yang Immortals, were dumbstruck, utterly shaken.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In a moment of eerie silence, the beast from the smoke, swift as lightning, smashed its paw into the ground, instantly ttening three figures rising from the ruins into pulp!

    Tian Ding, Xuan Jian, and Jian Mei were no more.

    "Uh..." Every descendant of the Three Immortals was petrified with terror.

    "Run for your lives!" someone screamed shrilly.

    Chaos ensued in the crowded execution ground.

    After ying three, the beast didn''t halt. It seemed to have four eyes, two cold and detached, two alight with brutal excitement, sweeping over all present!

    Yu Nichang stood frozen, murmuring, "Since ancient times, it''s been said, when the Nian descends, all beings suffer..."

 Chapter 462: Feast and Slaughter!

    Chapter 462: Feast and ughter!

    "Save Lian Xi!" a voice thundered, slicing through the chaos like a sword through silk.

    The cmity wrought by the Nian had thrown the realm into disarray, its sheer force witnessed by millions as three true immortals were struck down, their demise sending shockwaves of fear that scattered souls and spirits. The masses, in a blind panic, tripped over each other in their haste to escape, their screams, curses, and cries of agony mingling into a cacophony that split the air.

    Yu Nichang and herpanions, though wary of the Nian, saw in this turmoil an opportunity. As the popce fled in terror, they emerged from the shadows, advancing towards the shattered execution tform. Their figures, mere hundreds against the chaos, went unnoticed.

    "Stop your foolish talk; it might not be the Nian!"

    "It''s certainly not the Nian. It reeks of demon essence. This is a supreme demon!"

    Despite the panic, the Jade Immortal Tower Lord, Tian Yn, and thousands of Yin-Yang Immortals, backed by a legion of descendants, stood their ground. Nothing in this world could daunt the descendants of the Three Immortals.

    "The remnants of the Primordial Academy are here!"

    "Block them!"

    The Mystic Earth Immortal was nearby, and amongst the tens of thousands, a fierce resolve burned. Most kept their blood cold and their minds clear. They divided their forces, some focusing on Yu Nichang and her group, while the rest, numbering close to 100,000, simultaneously summoned their magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils, directing their might against the silver behemoth at the heart of the storm.

    The loss of Tian Ding and the other two had scarcely diminished their collective strength. A hundred thousand descendants attacked in unison, their power sweeping towards the silver beast like a torrential downpour.

    "Strike!" Magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils burst forth in a dazzling array of divine lights, cutting through the heavens and piercing the murky haze brought by the Nian.

    A hundred thousand intents to kill, intensified by the attacks of the Yin-Yang Immortals, formed a storm of destruction that even the Three Immortals themselves might not withstand.

    Yu Nichang looked up, her heart tightening with anxiety. Lian Xi was near the Nian, caught in the midst of this devastating assault.

    The Nian, massive in stature, found itself at a disadvantage under the barrage of relentless assault.

    "Fear not!" came a rallying cry.

    "Even the Nian is but a pig or dog at the hands of the Three Immortals descendants!"

    Spurred by the descendants'' fierce onught, the millions of panicked citizens of the realm steadied their spirits. Halting their frantic escape, they turned back, raising their arms in a roar, "Destroy this beast!"

    Demons, devils, and the Nian¡ªall must fall for the world to see a brighter dawn.

    Hatred rekindled in the eyes of the people as they witnessed the attack.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A hundred thousand magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils converged into dense clouds of color, raining down upon the silver behemoth.

    "Lian Xi!" The six-tailed silver fox, with its silver-white eyes, nced at the girl still bound to thepass, its silver visage growing colder, more murderous.

    "You are..." Lian Xi''s eyes trembled, staring in disbelief.

    Moon Fairy did not respond. Instead, it positioned itself protectively in front of her.

    With a roar, it unleashed a torrent of yellow and white mes, swirling into a massive sphere that expanded to almost 1,000 in diameter. The sphere, with its fiercely spinning mes, met the iing magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils. The moment of impact saw the sphere explode into a shockwave of fire that swept the magic treasures and Life Sigils along, hurling them back at the descendants of the Three Immortals surrounding them.

    "Be careful!"

    "Move!"

    The explosion, a fusion of Moon Fairy and the Nian''s powers, held the vastness of the divine and the destructive force of cmity. Thebined might had the power to obliterate heaven and earth.

    The shockwave, like a tidal wave of white fire, instantly engulfed the surrounding area. Buildings crumbled to dust, and the descendants, despite their magic shields, were burned to cinders or struck dead by their own magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils.

    The battlefield was thrown into chaos once more.

    "You think you can face me?!" Moon Fairy, engulfed in righteous fury at the arrogance and confidence of the Three Immortals'' descendants, took action.

    His massive form blurred into a silver streak as it charged directly into the heart of the 100,000, ready to exact vengeance.

    Though the Nian was massive, when it transformed into a fox demon, its agility became unimaginable. Its ws and tail were weapons of destruction; with a single swipe, the ground was soaked in blood, and with a bite, limbs were severed, slipping from the corners of its maw.

    Moon Fairy had descended into a frenzy of ughter. In truth, it was Yun Xiao who had lost himself to the killing.

    The Nian exerted a certain influence over its host, a monster starved for countless years. Before such a feast, it was even more ravenous than Yun Xiao himself. The descendants of the Three Immortals, dying under Moon Fairy''s bite, then crushed and swallowed, were victims of its leading.

    "Exhrating! Exhrating! Exhrating!"

    "Eat! I''ll gorge myself!"

    The Nian had not expected its first outing with Moon Fairy to be such a banquet. It had feared Moon Fairy might be too merciful!

    Everywhere the six-tailed silver fox went, the descendants of the Three Immortals were torn asunder, their flesh scattered to the winds.

    The millions of citizens who had just begun to feel a spark of confidence were once again terrified into utter dismay. Watching the revered descendants fall before the Nian like helpless flies, their worldview crumbled anew.

    "The Mystic Earth Immortal, return at once!"

    "Come back..."

    It wasn''t just them. The descendants of the Three Immortals and the Yin-Yang Immortals, decimated by the beast''s rampage, were stricken with fear. Thebined force of 100,000 was riddled with breaches, unable to form a solid front.

    "Spread out, wait for the Mystic Earth Immortal to deal with it!" Tian Yn, returning to the crowd with a pale face and waving her arms, saw more than a dozen of her kin before her.

    "Be careful!" Desperation filled the eyes of those watching her back.

    Before Tian Yn could turn, a dense, bloodthirsty wind descended upon her. With a sickening crunch, only her slender legs remained standing; her body above the thighs was devoured in one bite by the silver behemoth, swallowed whole.

    Screams of horror filled the air.

    Witnessing this carnage up close, the descendants of the Three Immortals copsed to the ground, their usual pride and arrogance extinguished in an instant.

    "Auntie..." Among them, a young prodigy named Tian Chen trembled with fear. As a direct descendant of the Three Immortals, it was beyond his wildest nightmares that they could be ughtered like this.

    "Nian!" He stared madly at the silver behemoth. In a blur, the beast swept past him. Drawing his spear, he attempted a counterattack, only for a silver-white fox tail tosh out, cutting him in half and sending him flying.

    Moon Fairy paid him no heed, its attention not on the fallen. With countless eyes turning white in death, it had no time to regard who died.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With each explosive sound, tens of thousands of the Three Immortals'' descendants were in, their cries echoing. Outside, millions were blocked from escaping, trapped without space to disperse or flee.

    The scene resembled a person stepping into an ant colony, crushing countless lives beneath their foot.

    The Nian reveled in its feast, unchecked by Moon Fairy. To Yun Xiao, these descendants were nothing but parasites upon the masses, numbering in the tens of thousands.

    In this moment, his mind harbored only a singr thought¡ªextermination. He was not Lian Xi; with his heart consumed by a towering rage, anyone who crossed his path would meet their end.

    "Kill! Kill!" His silver form, like a reaper, plunged the tens of thousands of descendants into a hellish nightmare. Even as thousands of Yin-Yang Immortals encircled and attacked Moon Fairy, their efforts barely scratched his tough hide.

    A defining trait of the Nian was its insatiable hunger. Though it sustained injuries, the flesh and blood it devoured healed its wounds, making it and Moon Fairy increasingly ferocious with each kill.

    "Hold on! The Mystic Earth Immortal will return soon!" Celestial Official Qin and others cried out, their eyes bleeding with desperation.

    With a roar, Moon Fairy''s w pierced through his body. The threat posed by these Yin Immortals was minimal, to say nothing of the descendants of the Three Immortals.

    The Mystic Earth Immortal wasn''t far away and had never imagined that the Nian could inflict such devastation on his progeny in such a short span of time.

    Screams of horror echoed continuously.

    Looking around, the vicinity of the Jade Immortal Tower had turned into a veritable hell on earth. Over 50,000 descendants of the Three Immortalsy dismembered. The efforts of three centuries were decimated in barely a moment by the concentrated fury of the Nian, leaving the surviving descendants in a state of utter terror.

    They watched the six-tailed silver fox with tears streaming down their faces, their usual arrogance stripped away to reveal the raw, bloodied visage beneath.

    And the six-tailed silver fox continued its ferocious roar, more akin to the tyrant of all demons than any enchanting fox, its fangs and ws as menacing as a nightmare.

    This massacre left over 300 Yin-Yang Immortals dead, including many Manor Masters and Celestial Officials.

    "Touch my Lian Xi, and I''ll turn your entire Three Great Ruins into a necropolis today!" In the midst of this carnage, every hair on the silver behemoth dripped with blood, its body adorned with chunks of flesh. Its crimson teeth, along with the silver and dull yellow eyes, portrayed it as a demon incarnate.

    This was Yun Xiao''s vengeance.

    "This Nian is terrifying..." Yu Nichang and herpanions, previously hindered by the Three Immortals'' descendants, now found their path clear. Nothing stood in their way but the Nian itself, a sight that left them awe-struck.

    "The Mystic Earth Immortal has returned!" Yu Nichang frowned, spotting a sh of silver in the sky.

    "The Nian is formidable, but it might not best the Mystic Earth Immortal in a duel..." Yun Dahe said through gritted teeth.

    "Quickly! I''ll sneak over and retrieve Lian Xi; you create a diversion!" Yu Nichang decided then and there.

    "Understood!"

    They moved swiftly.

    Transforming into a beam of white light, Yu Nichang darted towards Lian Xi across the blood-soaked ground.

    To the onlookers from the surrounding realms, this act of valor reignited a flicker of hope and rage.

    Clearly, no matter how many of the descendants were ughtered, as long as the Three Immortals remained, the faith of millions would never be extinguished.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughtsn/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 463: One Hand Covering the Sky

    Chapter 463: One Hand Covering the Sky

    "It''s Yu Nichang. That witch of a dean seeks to save the child of disaster!"

    "Stop her!"

    Even as themon people warned the descendants of the Three Immortals and the Yin-Yang Immortals, they were already too embroiled in the ughter by the Nian to lend a hand.

    Just as Yu Nichang was about to reach Lian Xi, a zing silver light descended from the heavens, forming a colossal wall of silver butterflies, blocking her path!

    In a sh of light, Lian Xi and thepass behind her vanished from sight.

    "Mystic Earth Immortal!!" Yu Nichang gritted her teeth in furious rage.

    She was a step too slow! Crashing into the butterfly wall, she looked up to see a towering silver figure in the sky, one hand behind his back and the other controlling thepass.

    Lian Xi was still bound by the Eight Trigrams ropes!

    "The True Immortal returns!!!"

    At this sight, whether it was the Yin-Yang Immortals, the descendants of the Three Immortals, or the tens of millions of denizens of the Primordial Ruins, a tumultuous roar of fervor erupted, dispelling the fear of the Nian and recing it with a fierce desire for battle!

    "We request the Mystic Earth True Immortal to y the disaster and protect the people!"

    Tears filled the eyes of the millions as they knelt once more.

    "Practice the Ascension Technique to aid me in eradicating evil," the Mystic Earth Immortalmanded with supreme authority.

    "Yes!"

    Suddenly, the people of the Primordial Ruins, no longer fearing death, sat down to fervently practice the Ascension Technique.

    Buzzing!

    Countless streams of mist surged towards the Mystic Earth Immortal.

    As the people aged, he grew stronger.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "The Nian?" He looked down at the carnage below, a ghastly sight of descendant corpses that even made his eyelids twitch uncontrobly. He had chased Shen Cang but for a moment, yet in that brief time, his descendants were ughtered beyond imagination.

    As his gaze locked onto the blood-soaked, six-tailed silver fox still in its frenzy of murder, a dense murderous intent dyed his eyes crimson.

    "You beast, so cruel, so utterly ruthless!"

    The power swirling around him transformed the skies above, summoning winds and clouds in a disy that drew cheers from the masses, unfazed by the deaths of tens of thousands of the Three Immortals'' descendants, his presence alone failing to halt the carnage.

    Unexpectedly, beneath his formidable might, the Nian paid him no heed, continuing its ughter of his descendants.

    Each moment, hundreds of lives were snuffed out.

    With every move, the beast seemed to challenge the Mystic Earth Immortal. <em>What does your return matter? Before you, I will continue to decimate your progeny!</em>

    "Halt!" Silver mes burst from the eyes of the Mystic Earth Immortal as he moved the hand holding thepass, igniting a strand of Lian Xi''s hair with a multi-colored me that quickly engulfed her.

    "The Immortal Fire has been lit!"

    "The disaster is finished, hahaha!"

    The beings of the Primordial Ruins and the descendants of the Three Immortals, atst, found their relief, erupting into cheers andughter.

    Amidst the colorful inferno, Lian Xi remained silent, her teeth gritted as her hair and porcin skin withered and ckened under the intense heat, the agony of such an eternal fire known to all.

    High above, staring down at the cursing masses, she clenched her fists tight, any tears long evaporated by the mes.

    "Nian, I know you''re trying to save her! This is yourst chance, stop!" the Mystic Earth Immortal coldly dered.

    He refrained from confronting the Nian directly, likely due to the need to gather the strength of the masses.

    It was only then that the blood-drenched, six-tailed demon fox looked up, its gaze ice-cold as it said, "You are not my concern. My task is to devour your little insects!"

    This statement from Moon Fairy deeply puzzled the Mystic Earth Immortal. What did he mean? Could there be another existence? Impossible!

    Holding thepass, the Mystic Earth Immortal scoffed, "If no one cares, then why should I bother? Let''s end her journey now."

    "No!" Yu Nichang and others, their eyes splitting with rage, rushed towards the heavens.

    Throughout it all, Lian Xi''s gaze remained dim, even as the mes of execution seared her.

    Her inner destion was deeply tied to Yun Xiao''s annihtion by the Great Decay...

    "Yun Xiao, perhaps in another life, we shall meet again, shall we?" She knew the weight of the mission she bore, believing she could withstand the bacsh of all beings. Yet, when Yun Xiao also vanished during this disaster, she felt for the first time the crumbling of her faith.

    Why? Why couldn''t she feel that sense of mission anymore? Who had shaken her resolve? The Nian, her master, countless beings of the Primordial Ruins... In her eyes, at this moment, they all seemed to lose their luster. She was in profound grief!

    "A twist of fate, but your end remains a brief tragedy. You were born into this world as but a dream, a fleeting firework. When the dream ends, it''s still us who dictate this world, understand?" The Mystic Earth Immortal, through the colorful ze, looked at her with a coldugh.

    Lian Xi looked back at him, her gaze dim. Perhaps, she truly was defeated. Not because the Primordial Pagoda was shattered. It was rted to a person. She wasn''t supposed to be this way.

    "The Nian seems not to want to save you, so you are finished." The Mystic Earth Immortalughed, hastening the burn of the Immortal Fire, intensifying the mes that leapt upon Lian Xi.

    One could hardly imagine the pain those mes would bring!

    "Despair? Copse? The human world is just so, not suited for a pure lotus like you," the Mystic Earth Immortal mocked as he burned.

    He was eliminating a threat! This indicated he also cared little for the fate of the descendants. Undoubtedly, this was the darkest moment!

    Lian Xi shook her head,pletely engulfed by the colorful ze, thepass burning along with her.

    In that final moment, her eyes suddenly brightened. As if a powerful light had pierced the darkest moment of her life! She smiled suddenly! All her beliefs returned, the resolve and sense of mission in her eyes making even the Mystic Earth Immortal doubt his own sight.

    <em>What did she see?</em> The Mystic Earth Immortal felt a chill down his spine. Behind him, how could such a devastating force be gathering? He turned abruptly and saw the void split open to reveal a gaping maw, and from it stepped a young man in white, alone with his sword, floating in the sky.

    "Yun Xiao?!" Both the Mystic Earth Immortal and the countless beings of the Primordial Ruins cried out in shock at the name!

    "He''s not dead?" The Mystic Earth Immortal frowned, seeing the young man unharmed, still dashing and vibrant, his gaze as firm and fierce as ever!

    Just like the Nian''s silver-white eyes! What was terrifying was that wrapped around the young man''s sword was a figure! It appeared to be a shadow with five heads!

    ttened and pressed against the sword, it spun around the Sword Soul... yet, the cataclysmic force of decay seemed undiminished!

    His appearance made even the sun and moon in the sky tremble, the world''s force of decay drawn into the sword!

    The force of all beings that had been flowing towards the Mystic Earth Immortal, for some reason, started swirling towards the figure on the sword.

    Tens of millions of beings of the Primordial Ruins ceased their cultivation, eyes wide, staring at the sky. This included the Yin-Yang Immortals and those in white robes.

    The Mystic Earth Immortal, who had schemed for centuries, suddenly turned pale, his eyes wide, pointing at the figure with five heads on Yun Xiao''s sword, asking, "What is this?"

    When he asked this question, he remembered the Nian''s words. "You are not my concern. My task is to devour your little insects!"

    So, who was meant to confront the Mystic Earth Immortal?

    Without a doubt, it was Yun Xiao before him.

    Blood seethed in the eyes of the young man in white. He nced at Lian Xi atop thepass, then fiercely told the Mystic Earth Immortal, "Great Decay, I send you to your end!"

    No more words wasted, with that deration, Yun Xiao thrust his sword, aiming for the Mystic Earth Immortal!

    "Ridiculous!" The Mystic Earth Immortal, with a cold expression, reached for thepass, swiftly positioning Lian Xi in front of him!

    He knew the power on Yun Xiao''s sword was not his own and could likely only be wielded once. As he anticipated, the sword unleashed its strike, the Great Decay suddenly bursting forth, separating from the Sword Soul!

    "Then kill her!" the Mystic Earth Immortal said, amused.

    "You still find humor, it only shows you know nothing of the Giant Decay," Yun Xiao responded, icy.

    "Hmm?" The Mystic Earth Immortal, clutching thepass, widened his eyes.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Giant Decay loomedrger in his sight, its five heads'' eyes suddenly locking onto the Mystic Earth Immortal.

    "What is this..." Atst, the Mystic Earth Immortal uttered the same words Yun Xiao''s foes often did when faced with his deadly move.

    The Great Decay swept across the sky, transforming into a boundless titan, its crimson hand reaching out to grasp the Mystic Earth Immortal then and there.

    In such a predicament, how could Lian Xi be used as a shield?

    "Mystic Earth True Immortal!"

    Tens of millions of denizens of the Primordial Ruins watched this scene, their eyes nearly popping out of their sockets.

    The Great Decay grasped the Mystic Earth Immortal. At first, he appeared calm, but as he began to struggle, the fear on his face grew more pronounced.

    "Let go! Let go!" He roared, deploying various methods, unleashing explosive forces... but the hand of the Great Decay remained unmoved.

    To the shock of the onlookers, their revered Mystic Earth Immortal, in the grasp of the giant, was like a true insect, wriggling helplessly in its hand.

    "Our ancestor!" The surviving descendants of the Three Immortals, the Yin-Yang Immortals copsed to their knees in disarray, their worldview shattered! Their faith was trampled into mud!

    In the midst of this chaotic storm, the young man in white, teeth clenched, dered, "You three, in this mortal world, sought to cover the sky with one hand, not knowing there is a heaven beyond heaven. Wishing to cultivate the Heavenly Dao without reverence, you walk a path to death!"

    These words made the Mystic Earth Immortal''s eyes tremble wildly.

    He was truly afraid!

    "NOOOOOOO!!!" As he cried out in fury and despair, the Great Decay tightened its grip.

    With a squelch, flesh and blood dripped from between its fingers from the sky!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Great Decay opened its hand. The remnants of blood and flesh in its grasp transformed into thousands of butterflies, attempting to flee.

    "Thinking of escaping?" Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword swept through, piercing through the butterflies!

    "Ahh¡­! The centuries of nning¡­!" The Mystic Earth Immortal''s cries of despair resonated through the Primordial Ruins.

    Below, tens of millions of people watched in astonishment. Thementationsted a long while.

    Only one entity did not cease its action, the Nian that continued to ughter the descendants of the Three Immortals.

 Chapter 464: Heavens Wrath!

    Chapter 464: Heaven''s Wrath!

    Where was the Mystic Earth Immortal?! When that <em>True Immortal</em> was squished into pulp by the mighty Great Decay, few truly realized he was gone.

    The descendants of the Three Immortals, butchered by the Nian, gazed nkly at the heavens!

    Upon Yun Xiao''s de, the butterflies impaled ignited into azure mes under the ferocity of the Sword Aura.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>As they were utterly consumed, the unwilling cry of the Mystic Earth Immortal finally vanished into the cosmos.

    "The Mystic Earth Immortal is dead!!"

    "Yun Xiao, has in a True Immortal..."

    A voice, tinged with both delight and disbelief, suddenly pierced into the ears of many, sharp as a sword.

    People trembled and looked up to see the speaker was Yu Nichang, who stood closest to Yun Xiao and the Mystic Earth Immortal, seeing everything clearly.

    "Dead?" A deste and tragic air began to spread among the descendants of the Three Immortals. They were still frantically evading the ughter of the Nian!

    "Impossible!"

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    "This woman has lost her mind, spouting nonsense!"

    "Immortals live forever, how can he die? Laughable, haha!"

    "The great ancestor is eternal!"

    The descendants of the Three Immortals, along with many Primordial Ruins inhabitants, burst intoughter. The Mystic Earth Immortal dead? They wouldn''t believe it even if they were beaten to death!

    And so, the people were split into two extremes.

    On one side, those in white robes, along with Yu Nichang and Feng Qingcong, stared at Yun Xiao in utter shock, jubnt and tearful.

    Amid the coldughter and mockery of their wildest dreams, a voice rang out, proiming Yun Xiao''s deed as the century''s greatest joke. Mockingughter echoed all around.

    "Is there truly no hope left?" Yu Nichang could only sigh at the sight of these frenzied and prideful people, her willingness to intervene dwindling.

    "Lian Xi!" In that moment, a critical event unfolded. The Immortal Fire on thepass suddenly extinguished. A woman in white, along with thepass, fell from the sky, caught by Yu Nichang.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "How is she?"

    The crowd in white robes gathered anxiously.

    Yu Nichang cradled Lian Xi, her hands glowing as light flowed into the girl''s delicate body. "Her injuries are minor, just mild burns on the skin. Some ointment will heal her," she said, finally allowing her tension to release as tears fell onto Lian Xi''s face.

    The hundreds around them stared at the white-robed youth with dream-like expressions, overwhelmed by the breathtaking feats he achieved in just a few days.

    Lian Xi''s eyes fluttered open, her gaze moving past Yu Nichang to Yun Xiao still in the sky, her eyes filled with unspeakable depths.

    This scene heralded chaos.

    "The Primordial Compass is now ownerless, the Immortal Fire extinguishes automatically!"

    Among the crowd, the Jade Immortal Tower Master copsed, his eyes wide in shock.

    "This means, the Mystic Earth Immortal really..."

    This truth hit like a furious hammer, smashing into the hearts of many. The descendants of the Three Immortals and the Yin-Yang Immortals screamed in agony, their decades-long beliefs shattered instantaneously, like a sword piercing the brain and stirring relentlessly, causing soul-rending pain.

    The less than 30,000 descendants of the Three Immortals were in utter despair. They gasped, reaching out only to grasp at air.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>One by one, these beings of noble birth and lofty lineage, who stood above all life, copsed to the ground, clutching their necks and gasping for air, unable to speak a word as blood spilled from their mouths.

    Many eyes nearly popped from their sockets, bleeding profusely.

    "The Mystic Earth Immortal, in by Yun Xiao?"

    "Ahhh!"

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    Each time they recalled this fact, the noble ones felt as if pierced by a sword, their bodies convulsing in agony.

    In such despair, the Nian rampaged through the crowd, its bites and ws leaving nothing but shattered bodies and blood in their wake, slicing through flesh as easily as a knife through soft tofu.

    Many of high status, like those akin to Celestial Officials or younger geniuses revered by all, now stood petrified, awaiting death amidst their own filth.

    No matter their previous stature, they were now engulfed in a mix of blood and excrement.

    "These descendants of the Three Immortals, about to be wiped out... If the lineage ends, and another True Immortal falls... are they doomed?" Suddenly, the Jade Immortal Tower Master posed this question, his eyes bleeding ck blood.

    Curiously, this ck blood seemed to clear his vision, reducing the redness in his eyes.

    "If the Sky Source Immortal and the Human Zenith Immortal were to fall, the Primordial Ruins would lose its rulers," another elder stated, trembling at the thought.

    The extent of loss suffered by the Three Immortals and their descendants was terrifying.

    "Yun Xiao is terrifying... Wait, Jade Immortal Tower Master, why have you aged so much?" An elder, in the midst of his shock, suddenly noticed.

    "I''ve aged?" The Jade Immortal Tower Master looked in a mirror, finding wrinkles and signs of bodily decay he hadn''t noticed before.

    "You all seem to have aged, what''s going on?" He saw that many around him appeared older as well.

    Surrounded by ancient families of the Primordial Ruins, even themon folk outside, those not yet afflicted by aging curses, showed clear signs; many young men and women now had white hair, not the glowing silver of youth but the dull grey of decay.

    "Why have I aged like this?"

    "Mother, why is my hair white, sob!"

    "Heavens, why do I have so many wrinkles, I''m only 17!"

    In that moment, among the tens of millions in the Primordial Ruins, many eyes bled ck before clearing. No longer did they mourn the Mystic Earth Immortal''s demise; instead, they panicked over their dwindling lifespans. What was lost could not be reimed.

    "Why? Why?"

    Chaos and destion seized the Immortal Ruins once again.

    Still, countless eyes, red with fury, fixed upon Yun Xiao, hurling curses.

    "The yer of Immortals, the Three Immortals were divine envoys sent by the heavens. Your defiance, your act of ying an Immortal, has breached the heavenlyws!"

    "You''re doomed now, with the heavens'' wrath upon you, you shall not reincarnate for 100 lifetimes!"

    The roar of condemnation was like a tidal wave, crashing against Yun Xiao''s heart.

    Yun Xiao surveyed the crowd.

    "Those whose eyes have cleared, who fear the loss of their lifespan, are but half of those still red-eyed."

    This revealed that each of the Three Immortals had deceived a third of all beings.

    Now, only those enved by the Mystic Earth Immortal were freed, realizing the fear of losing lifespan. They, considering the character of those still cursing Yun Xiao, might soon grasp the truth...

    "Yun Xiao!" The Jade Immortal Tower Master, ignoring the chaos, shouted, "Why have we aged? Were the Three Immortals hiding something from us?" By posing this question, he stood as a rational being.

    Yun Xiao had seized his tower, in his daughter¡ªfacts that were undeniable. But these did not prevent him from acting rationally.

    "Why indeed?" More and more people grew impatient with the still cursing crowd, turning to Yun Xiao with their queries.

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    Suddenly, their anger towards Yun Xiao dissipated. They couldn''t even muster hatred anymore. Their own lives mattered more to them. Though selfish, this was the response of normal people...

    "Dean Yu, please share the truth with everyone," Yun Xiao said, lowering his head.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 465: Im Not a Saviour!

    Chapter 465: I''m Not a Saviour!

    "Alright!" Yu Nichang nodded her approval.

    At her words, the white-robed crowd welled up with tears, their eyes shimmering with unshed emotion.

    This moment, long awaited, had finally arrived! Even if it was but a third of what they had dared not dream of, it was a victory beyond their wildest hopes.

    "Allow me to introduce someone," Yu Nichang''s voice cracked slightly with emotion. She gestured towards an old man in a grey robe, returning from afar, his gaze filled with astonishment. "His name is Shen Cang, a hidden descendant of the Martial Emperor n, blending into themon folk, now the Martial Emperor of our time!"

    The old man bore grave injuries; one arm was shattered, his body riddled with wounds as if gnawed by butterflies, a testament to a near-fatal encounter with the Mystic Earth Immortal in a blink of an eye.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Had it not been for the sudden intervention of the Nian, he would have been dead.

    "Shen Cang... another disaster?" The appearance of the grey-robed man sparked outrage among countless red-eyed civilians, though a third of them looked on, confused and unfamiliar with the man.

    "The Martial Emperor n enraged the heavens with their heart-stealing cultivation practices, inviting divine wrath and the punishment of all beings..."

    The memories of a great hatred surged within them. But, faced with the dilemma of their lifespan, they did not let anger cloud their judgment, waiting instead for Yu Nichang to provide an exnation.

    And she did not keep them waiting long.

    Together with Shen Cang, she began to unravel the truths about the All-Life Devouring Gu, the power of the Heavenly Decay, the Ascension Technique, and the alignment of sun and moon, each revtion striking like thunder on a clear day.

    Only a fool would disbelieve.

    Take, for instance, the Jade Immortal Tower Master, whose youngest son, even now, bared his teeth at Yun Xiao. The child, though young, already bore the hair of the aged.

    Yet, he paid no heed, oblivious to his father''s attempts to warn him of his dwindling lifespan, roaring instead, "To defy the heavens is to walk a path to death!"

    <em>SMACK! </em>The Jade Immortal Tower Master struck his son, fury in his voice, "Silence! Your head is filled with parasites."

    "What parasites?" His son, clutching at his robe, spat bloodied spittle onto his face, using, "You betray the Three Immortals, may your whole family perish!" The Jade Immortal Tower Master stood wordless. The truth, stark and undeniable, was often the hardest to ept.

    How could one eaten away by the parasites of their minds ever believe in it? These parasites sometimes had no shape, no form. It could be a stretch of text, a flicker of images, or the insidious cultural indoctrination from birth.

    Many had their minds infested. But this type of parasite was harder to discern, harder to extract than that of the Three Immortals.

    They loathed themselves, revered their enemies as deities, harmed themselves and their kin, mocked their own bloodline, and took pride in it as if it made them descendants of the revered Immortals with disdain in their eyes.

    Little did they know, those they worshiped sought only to use their blood and lives to y those fighting for their right to live.

    At this moment, anyone awake felt turmoil within.

    The Jade Immortal Tower Master, tears streaming from his eyes, looked at his son, heartbroken.

    "Such sin, such a grave sin!"

    He looked around. Many who were awake grasped the hands of their loved ones, trying to awaken them, while those blinded by fervor wished death upon anyone who did not grovel before the Three Immortals.

    They celebrated, cheered, and took pride in their fanaticism.

    To them, Yun Xiao''s ying of the Mystic Earth Immortal was a wound deeper than if they were in themselves.

    They wept bitterly, their eyes bleeding red, a spectacle that made the Jade Immortal Tower Master question the essence of his existence.

    "The Primordial Ruins, a sacred pilgrimage site for myriad worlds, should not, must not be this..."

    The Three Immortals had used this power to destroy the very fabric of existence!

    If they did not turn back from the brink, what future would humanity have?

    "Yun Xiao! Alone, he stood against the abyss, preventing all beings from plummeting into its depths!"

    A fire lit within the Jade Immortal Tower Master''s heart, awestruck by the young man''s resolve.

    He nced at the chaos, the pain of families torn asunder spreading throughout the Primordial Ruins.

    Taking a deep breath, he pushed past the pain of his own loss, and abruptly, he knelt towards Yun Xiao!

    With a voice aze with fervor, he called out to Yun Xiao, "I beseech you to y the Sky Source Immortal and the Human Zenith Immortal, to liberate the myriad worlds from their suffering! The heavens will surely recognize your unparalleled merit, elevating you to a true savior, a real Immortal of Salvation!"

    His words, charged with emotion, awakened many on the spot.

    Suddenly, a multitude of beings from the Primordial Ruins knelt alongside the Jade Immortal Tower Master, their voices tinged with despair, "Please, save us! We beg you!"

    "We were misled by the All-Life Devouring Gu, opposed you against our will, but... we are innocent, we had no choice..."

    "Save my child, he''s only ten!"

    More and more people knelt before Yun Xiao, their tears flowing freely, their eyes filled with sorrow.

    Yun Xiao, his eyes fiery with resolve, surveyed the scene. Then he bellowed, "Stand up! Don''t do this; I am not one of the Three Immortals, you don''t need to kneel before me!"

    The Jade Immortal Tower Master and the others were taken aback.

    "I said, stand up!" Yun Xiao roared again.

    "Uh..."

    The awakened crowd exchanged looks, hesitantly rising to their feet. But they were anxious.

    They now understood that without vanquishing the Sky Source Immortal and the Human Zenith Immortal, even with the Mystic Earth Immortal gone, nothing would change!

    Without Yun Xiao''s intervention, they had no future.

    They held their breath, their eyes trembling as they looked at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath, then said calmly, "Listen well, I have never been a savior, nor do I seek heaven''s rewards for any grand deeds! I will end the Three Immortals with my own life, not for your sake, but because it displeases me, because I wish to take everything they possess, just that simple!"

    With that, he cast a deep nce at the crowd, "Don''t you dare thank me, I can''t bear it!"

    Some deeds, if sessful, would make him a savior. But in failure, he''d be a viin for the ages, just like the Martial Emperor n, cast into an abyss of sin, scorned for centuries. Why bother, indeed?

    This journey through the Primordial Ruins convinced Yun Xiao he''d never again chant the mantra, ''For the sake of humanity!" He would act, confront his indignation, shatter all that was unfair, but he refused to y the saint any longer. Being a saint was perilously risky. Lian Xi, tortured over mes, was proof enough.

    "I am not a savior of the world.

    "I rather fancy the other title you''ve bestowed upon me, the yer of Men!"

    With those words, Yun Xiao felt a weight lift from his heart. He had tried to convince himself these people were but misled by the All-Life Devouring Gu, helpless in their actions. But back at the Mystic Zenith Temple, when the Heavenly Decay descended, seventy percent chose to cultivate the Ascension Technique anyway in spite of his warnings.

    "Yun Xiao..." Yu Nichang, Shen Cang, the Jade Immortal Tower Master, and others stared in disbelief at the young man in white.

    With a whoosh, he descended from the heavens, following closely behind the Nian, scavenging in its wake.

    Where the Nian led in ughtering the remnants of the Three Immortals'' descendants, Yun Xiao followed to clean up, iming every Seed of Creation, Bag of Holding, Sword Soul, and Life Sigil within his grasp.

    His goal was singr, and that was to consume all 100,000 descendants of the Three Immortals.

    "Generations bred tens of thousands over centuries, wonder how they managed that, truly like vermin! Yet, in just an hour, I''ve ughtered them all! Let''s see who''s faster, their breeding or my killing?" Yun Xiaoughed.

    Together, man and beast wreaked havoc, the sky darkened, the earth bled, ghosts wept, and wolves howled.

    The crowd watched, their worlds upturned.

    Within Yun Xiao''s embrace, Blue Star and Red Moon exchanged nces.

    "To think he''d shoulder the Great Cmity Spirit, and even use it to y... " Blue Star marveled.

    "The heat''s cranking up!" Red Moon clicked his tongue.

    "That... After this heroic rescue, this incarnation of transcending cmity is surely lost to us," Blue Star chuckled.

    Elsewhere, only after applying ayer of fine white jade medicinal salve did Lian Xi regain some color. Her gaze pierced through the crowd, resting on the frenzied young man.

    "Yun Xiao..." Her lips parted slightly, her voice lost in thought, "You say, he''s not a savior, but a world-ending tyrant in the making?"

    In her arms, the phantom of a white tiger flickered in and out of existence.

 Chapter 466: A Thousand Miles Walked, A Hundred Thousand Souls Slain!

    Chapter 466: A Thousand Miles Walked, A Hundred Thousand Souls in!

    Amidst gazes, some bloodshot, some vacant, the Six-Tailed Demon Fox, bathed in silver light, left a trail of corpses and blood wherever it went. This scene was etched deeply into the hearts of all who witnessed it.

    "Did the Nian target their descendants because the Three Immortals angered it in the Immortal Asylum?" It was clear to see, the ones torn asunder by the demon fox mostly had pale eyes.

    "We can''t be sure the Nian won''t attack others. We should retreat!" A third of the awakened, their hearts still a whirlwind of chaos and fear, had no choice but to abandon kin and friend, moving back temporarily.

    All eyes were fixed on the rampaging Nian, and Yun Xiao, who trailed behind it, was particrly conspicuous.

    "The Nian doesn''t attack him?"

    "What is his rtionship with the Nian¡­"

    With these questions, they watched as nearly 100,000 descendants of the Three Immortals were ughtered by the Nian, a near-total annihtion of their kind. They didn''t even leave corpses behind; the Nian devoured them all.

    Endless screams and wails filled the air.

    "The Nian is too brutal!" The third of the awakened, looking upon this hellish scene, felt their disdain and hatred for the Three Immortals turn into sheer terror at the ferocity of the Nian.

    A hundred thousand, the elite and the noble of the Primordial Ruins, nearly wiped from existence! Neither on the Nian nor Yun Xiao could any semnce of mercy be seen, only a cold, grim resolve.

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    "What happened today will resound through history, akin to when the Martial Emperor n obliterated the Devil Ark," Dean Yu said, her voice trembling with the weight of the deration.

    "It was the Three Immortals who brought the cmity of the Five Decays upon us, but med it on the Martial Emperor n! They were the true fiends, and this fate is no less than they deserve!"

    Those once revered as saviors, the True Immortals of salvation, were now unveiled as the very fiends who sought to extinguish humanity. The awakened souls, those clear-headed few, finally remembered whom their hatred was meant for. As the broken spirits and shattered bodies of the descendants of the Three Immortalsy strewn across the blood-soaked hell, still struggling in vain, the awakened raised their arms in outcry, unleashing the pent-up rage within.

    "Retribution! This is divine retribution for the Three Immortals!"

    Tears streamed down the faces of many.

    "Yun Xiao! Yun Xiao!"

    Their voices rose in a chorus, calling out for Yun Xiao, their spirits lifted so high they nearly forgot the presence of the Nian.

    "The battle of today is temporarily at an end."

    Yun Xiao imed everything. Lifting his gaze amidst the swirling blood mist, he locked eyes with the six-tailed silver fox. From this vantage point, he fullyprehended the terrifying and boundless nature of the newly embodied Moon Fairy. It was merely its breakout feast, devouring 100,000 souls, hinting at its boundless future.

    This body needed to digest today''s gains.

    With a sudden shudder, the Six-Tailed Demon Fox shook off countless droplets of blood, its fur gleaming silver once more. The creature, now with four eyes, revealed its eerie beauty to the world.

    "The Nian... is unexpectedly beautiful..." Many expressed their admiration, unable to reconcile the brutal beast of cmity with the stunning creature before them.

    "Tell the other two Gu worms, I''ve killed one of their kin and devoured their little ones. It won''t be long before they too be my feast!" The Six-Tailed Demon Fox smiled coldly, its limbs bent, and then with a leap, it vanished from the sight of all.

    Silence fell upon the scene once more. It was a long while before people began to buzz with discussion.

    "Such rity in the Nian''s speech, has it transformed?"

    "Yes! It possesses demonic power, yet also the force of cmity. What does this mean?"

    Of course, even now, only a third were engaged in discussion. The remaining two-thirds were still consumed with rage, pointing fingers at Yun Xiao, using him and the Nian of ancient crimes.

    Yun Xiao paid them no heed. Amidst the focus of countless eyes, he nonchntly sorted through his significant gains, his gaze finally resting on a Life Sigil in his palm.

    The Life Sigil was like a vast continent in itself, adorned with mountains and rivers. The mountain ranges crisscrossed each other, emanating a majestic aura, with each peak formed from dense patterns of sigils, shaping thend into the likeness of a butterfly.

    "The Mystic Earth Immortal''s Life Sigil, with its 6,660,000 Runes, is known as the Kun Sigil. It wields the force of the earth''s pulse, surpassing even the Yang grade."

    And now, it belonged to Yun Xiao. Along with this, he naturally didn''t overlook the Mystic Earth Immortal''s Bag of Holding and other personal treasures.

    "The wealth of the Mystic Earth Immortal and the 100,000 descendants of the Three Immortals, I''ve taken it all in one fell swoop," Yun Xiao mused, his gaze icy. "With this, I''ve managed to destroy half of their resources."

    The remaining half was tied up in the Sky Source Ruins and with the Human Zenith Immortal.

    Indeed, to Yun Xiao, these 100,000 descendants collectively amounted to no more than a single one of the Three Immortals.

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    Having in the Mystic Earth Immortal, Yun Xiao was more aware than anyone of his formidable power.

    "The Great Decay, created by the Creator Immortal as sweepers of the mortal world, allowed me to borrow and redirect their lethal force with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, instantly annihting the Mystic Earth Immortal. In terms of cultivation, this Mystic Earth Immortal should rank above the Yang Immortals, though whether he counts as a True Immortal remains uncertain."

    Without the Great Decay, relying solely on the freshly freed Moon Fairy, Yun Xiao was uncertain of his chances against the Mystic Earth Immortal, let alone rescuing Lian Xi from his clutches.

    In short, the Mystic Earth Immortal, for all his strength, was unlucky and had little chance to showcase his power. This held especially true since he had absorbed the lifespans of countless beings!

    "After Moon Fairy consumes the 100,000 descendants and fully digests them, he should grow stronger. Things on the War Princess'' side are also looking up... As for myself, without the Great Decay, I''m at the Early Five Decays Realm, barely possessing thebat power of a Yin Immortal, still far from the Sky Source Immortal and Human Zenith Immortal."

    For this reason, despite today''s great victory, Yun Xiao was not optimistic. The centuries-old foundation of the Three Immortals had been halved today, and the remaining two would surely go mad with rage!

    This was evident in the lingering worries visible in the eyes of Dean Yu and others.

    "It''s time to n the next steps."

    Yun Xiao organized his gains, ready to move towards Dean Yu and Lian Xi.

    But at that moment, another twist of fate urred!

    "Hmm?"

    Yun Xiao looked up, and after the power of the Great Decay had dissipated, the ovepping sun and moon once again unleashed a vast force of Heavenly Decay, sweeping through the Primordial Ruins.

    "Ah!" Whether it was the people at Dean Yu''s pavilion or those near the Mystic Zenith Temple, all the inhabitants of the ruins once again showed signs of agonizing pain.

    Many fell to the ground, writhing. Their suffering was the same as when the sun and moon first converged, including Yun Xiao himself, who felt the fire of decay reignite within his body.

    He nced over to see Dean Yu, and those in white robes beside him, faring no better.

    "Quick! Practice the Ascension Technique now!"

    Those who still had a semnce of madness in their minds immediately sat down in meditation, continuing the practice of the Three Immortals'' techniques.

    This time, without their lifespan being devoured, they did not age rapidly. However, their lives still sped towards their end, aging months in just a day.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Ah, ah¡ª" And that one-third who had awakened, they surely dared not continue their practice. But if they didn''t practice, while their lifespan remained, their strength burned away, constantly in pain!

    It was clear, everyone who had cultivated in the Primordial Ruins at this moment was struck by the poison of Heavenly Decay.

    As long as the sun and moon converged, there was no escape!

    And practicing the Ascension Technique could bring a momentary sense of fulfillment, happiness, a lifting of the soul.

    "Dean Yu, what should we do?"

    "We can''t hold on!"

    "Can we continue to practice?"

    The Jade Immortal Tower Master and others approached, sweating coldly, gritting their teeth with the question.

    "Hold on for now," Dean Yu said, looking at the suffering beings before them, her eyes unavoidably filled with sorrow.

    "Thepass!" Yun Xiao descended from above, addressing Dean Yu, "Thepass that was in the Mystic Earth Immortal''s possession, is it with you? It can separate the sun and moon, right?"

    "You''re speaking of the Primordial Compass. It''s the helm of the Primordial Ruins," Dean Yu produced thepass, cing it before them, shaking her head at Yun Xiao. "Its sr and lunar cores have disappeared. The convergence of the sun and moon is irreversible. The Three Immortals nned this for over 100 years, never intending for the countless people in the Primordial Ruins to survive."

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    "They wanted the force of Heavenly Decay to spread throughout the myriad worlds, forcing everyone to practice the Ascension Technique." Yun Xiao frowned.

    "Yes! It''s irreversible now¡­" Dean Yu''s white hair fell loose, her eyes dim, seeming to age several years in a moment.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 467: Celestial Sourcecore!

    Chapter 467: Celestial Sourcecore!

    Upon hearing Dean Yu''s words, both the figures in white robes and the newly awakened fell into despair.

    "To seize the lives of beings from countless worlds, pooling them into the essence of the Three Immortals¡­ such an act of venom incites the wrath of gods and men alike!"

    Questions arose,menting the silence of the heavens in the face of such cmity. "Why have the heavens not unleashed its wrath to eradicate the malevolence and rescue themon folk?"

    At that moment, many copsed back to the ground in resignation. Their gazes wandered among the crowd, ultimately resting on Yun Xiao and Lian Xi, with the majority clinging to a sliver of hope upon seeing Yun Xiao.

    These people almost prostrated themselves in gratitude and reverence but restrained the impulse, remembering Yun Xiao''s disdain for such gestures.

    "Time is needed for the Heavenly Decay to sweep across the myriad worlds, right?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "At least a month, or at most a few years," Yu Nichang replied, hinting at a world poisoned in due time.

    Yun Xiao nodded, then asked, "What exactly is that?" His question pointed to the conjoined sun and moon above.

    Yu Nichang nced at the zing orb in the sky, revealing, "Its essence is known as the Celestial Sourcecore."

    "The Celestial Sourcecore?"

    "Yes. It''s the foundational force of the Immortal Dao bestowed by the heavens, pivotal to all cultivation. Every wisp of Immortal and spiritual energy in the world stems from it. Even the journeying of the Primordial Ruins through the myriad worlds utilizes its power. The veins of the earth, the grass, and the trees all thrive by drawing from this celestial source," Yu Nichang exined.

    "So, this is the crux of cultivation?" Yun Xiao remarked, taken aback by the revtion of its significance.

    "Indeed! Without the Celestial Sourcecore, there would be no world, no life," Yu Nichang sighed.

    "So it is," Yun Xiao mused, his expression a shifting y of light and shadow.

    Beside Yu Nichang, a figure in grey, known as Shen Cang, addressed Yun Xiao, "In truth, during the era our Martial Emperor ancestors governed, the sun and moon were unified. It was the Three Immortals who separated them, infusing each with the Yin and Yang energies of Heavenly Decay. Over centuries, this transformation turned them into sources of Heavenly Decay, altering their essencepletely. Once merged, they would unleash a cataclysm across myriad worlds, ushering in a great disaster for mankind..."

    "You knew all this?" Yun Xiao turned towards him, his gaze piercing.

    Shen Cang shook his head. "It was only after the sun and moon converged that I came to know. Before that, we were clueless about their purpose in separating them... We knew of the existence of a pestilence, but not that the sun and moon had been so drastically altered."

    Had they known sooner, perhaps they wouldn''t have been so passive today.

    Yun Xiao gathered his thoughts, "So, the Celestial Sourcecore has been restored to its original form, but has be a source of deadly poison. Yet, it remains the only hope for the survival of beings across the myriad worlds..."

    Yu Nichang had already said they couldn''t separate the sun and moon again.

    "Maybe the remaining Sky Source Immortal and Human Zenith Immortal have a way? But even if they''re defeated, it might not solve the problem," the Jade Immortal Tower Master said in a flurry of distress.

    Everyone looked at the Celestial Sourcecore, feeling suffocated.

    "Yun Xiao," Yu Nichang looked at him with eyes full of hope, "The Primordial Pagoda has shattered. From now on, we can only rely on you. You''ve in the Mystic Earth Immortal; can you also vanquish the Sky Source Immortal and Human Zenith Immortal?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "Not now. I am still in the Early Five Decays Realm. The method I used to kill the Mystic Earth Immortal was a chance urrence."

    "How many years will you need?" Yu Nichang asked, biting her lip.

    "What years? Just wait a few more days, can you hold out for that long?" Yun Xiao asked.

    The crowd was stunned.

    "A few days?"

    It was at that moment they truly understood Yun Xiao''s real level.

    He had indeed soared in strength in just a few days, not pretending to be weaker than he was.

    "A few days is definitely manageable; we''ll just hold out," the Jade Immortal Tower Master dered.

    "No need to practice the Ascension Technique anymore!"

    Seeing Yun Xiao, a glimmer of hope rekindled in everyone''s hearts.

    "By the way, how is your rtionship with the Nian? After all, you both hail from the Nine Hells," Shen Cang suddenly asked.

    "Not great. If I manage to deal with the Sky Source Immortal and Human Zenith Immortal, I''ll have to deal with it eventually," Yun Xiao said nonchntly.

    "Alright then."

    There was a slight disappointment among the crowd; they had hoped Yun Xiao and the Nian could join forces.

    This young man had taken down the Mystic Earth Immortal, and although he imed it was idental, hope was still kindled.

    "So, we stay here?" Feng Qingcong asked.

    Shen Cang and Yu Nichang turned their gazes towards Yun Xiao.

    After the battle, a young man suddenly became the cornerstone of the entire human race.

    Yun Xiao did not disappoint them. With decisive rity, he stated, "We cannot stay in the Primordial Ruins. The Human Zenith Immortal is already on his way back. Here, he can draw upon the lifespans of all beings to fuel hisbat, making it impossible for us to ovee him."

    In other words, as long as the Celestial Sourcecore remained, this ce was the stronghold of the three Immortals!

    They still had two-thirds of the inhabitants of the Primordial Ruins to drain.

    "Then where to?" Yu Nichang asked.

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao replied, "To the Nine Hells."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "The Nine Hells? Is the Sky Source Immortal still there?" Shen Cang inquired.

    "Not only is he there, but thousands of Dreamsea Abalones are there as well, vying for control of the Immortal Asylum," Yun Xiao responded coolly.

    "With the Nian out of the equation, is it wise for us to enter this battleground now?" Yu Nichang questioned, puzzled.

    She implied that choosing any other world might be better.

    "Do you wish to follow my lead?" Yun Xiao looked up at them.

    Yu Nichang and Shen Cang exchanged nces.

    "Alright, we''ll follow you. You''ve in the Mystic Earth Immortal; you are the hero of the realms," Yu Nichang dered.

    Shen Cang nodded in agreement.

    "Good," Yun Xiao surveyed the group, "Gather your things. Those among the awakened with the strength at the Yin-Yang Immortal level, follow me to the Nine Hells."

    The descendants of the Three Immortals at that level were nearly wiped out.

    Around Yun Xiao, the Yin-Yang Immortals, numbering around 200 besides the ones in white robes, were primarily from the ancient families of the Primordial Ruins.

    "What about the others?" the Jade Immortal Tower Master asked.

    His son was still ranting.

    "They stay here; there''s nowhere else for them to go anyway," Yun Xiao stated.

    "Alright."

    This was the domain of the Sky Source Immortal and Human Zenith Immortal. So, it was to be avoided as a battlefield.

    So, by taking these people with him, Yun Xiao was actually heading to a new battlefield!

    Their departure would make the Primordial Ruins safer.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, we depart for the Nine Hells immediately," Yu Nichang announced after a headcount, starting the preparations.

    Only at this moment did Yun Xiao return to Lian Xi''s side.

    He looked down at the ethereal and captivating girl before him, who had nearly recovered, her skin regaining its luminous, snow-like delicacy. Yet, there seemed to be a new depth of mncholy in her eyes.

    "Thank you for saving me," she said, her eyes slowly reddening with emotion.

    "There''s no need for thanks."

    Yun Xiao conjured his Sword Soul into a six-foot Sovereign Sword, then, supporting her slender waist, lifted her onto the sword. As a gentle breeze caressed them, he whispered, "Are you feeling alright?"

    "I am now," Lian Xi replied.

    "In my arms, you can cry if you wish. It''s okay," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "I won''t cry," Lian Xi bit her lip, firmly stating, "I failed and let everyone down this time. I can''t afford to fall again. I want to be stronger and then be able to assist you."

    "So resilient?" Yun Xiao pinched her earlobe, remarking, "That''s really good."

    "Mhm!" Lian Xi nodded vigorously, then fell silent.

    Yun Xiao nced at her profile, his gaze filled withplex emotions.

    With a hum, he propelled the sword forward, carrying the delicate beauty through the clouds, towards the Nine Hells below, under the illumination of the golden-silver Celestial Sourcecore.

    Behind him, one after another, the Yin-Yang Immortals from the Ruins spontaneously followed, heading to the new battlefield.

    In the wind, Yun Xiao wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her tightly. The beauty in his arms filled his senses with her delicate fragrance.

    The flushed red of her ears was the most beautiful color Yun Xiao had seen on the path of immortality.

    The winds shifted and the vast expanse below them changed, hinting at the grandeur of thousands of mountains and seas.

    "I wish I could hold you like this forever, to see the myriad worlds and theirndscapes," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "Mm... I hope..." Lian Xi lowered her head, her voice trembling.

    Yun Xiao smiled, then suddenly squeezed her waist!

    "Such resilience at 15, not bad," he joked.

    "Y-you..." Lian Xi blushed like a peach.

    "Stop it, you pervert!" Suddenly, a low growl sounded close to them.

    "Who''s speaking?" Yun Xiao looked towards the direction of her chest, surprised.

    "It''s nothing!" Lian Xi said, nervously.

    "Is it here? I must expose it!" Yun Xiao said seriously.

    "No, you can''t... Ah, ah."

 Chapter 468: Three Times Again?

    Chapter 468: Three Times Again?

    After a diligent search, Yun Xiao concluded with a slight curl at the corners of his mouth. Lian Xi, clutching at her clothing, nestled within his embrace, her face flushed a deep crimson, utterly bewildering in her allure. Her mind went nk, overwhelmed by the situation.

    After all, a host of elders stood right behind her...

    And yet, he dared to recklessly count the small creatures nestled within his embrace at such a moment!

    "Aha, you silver thief, I''ll bite you to death!" A fluffy white kitten, norger than a palm, was pulled out by Yun Xiao. More precisely, it had bitten and wed onto his hand, dragged out amidst a disy of tiny, bloody punctures and crimson trails it left behind.

    "I''ll bite you to death!" it screamed, ring at Yun Xiao with fierce, menacing eyes, yet its tiny form, a mere ball of snow-white fur, only added to its charm, no matter how ferocious it tried to appear.

    "Eh?" Yun Xiao, still holding Lian Xi, pinched the little creature''s cheek, curiously inquiring, "Little Xi, where did this kittene from? It''s too adorable."

    "I am a tiger!" the little white cat snarled.

    Yun Xiao flipped it over, spreading its legs,ughing, "Oh, a female."

    "Ah! Pervert, scoundrel, die!" The little white cat, feeling utterly disgraced, fluffed up its fur in anger, tears nearly spilling from its eyes.

    "Y-you can''t do this, it''s too rude!" Lian Xi quickly snatched the kitten back, muttering, "It''s mypanion; I''ve... I''ve been raising it for a long time!"

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    "A long time? Howe I''ve never seen it before?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "It... it likes to wander off. It''s been gone for a few days," Lian Xi earnestly replied.

    "Oh? Is that so? After all, we''ve only known each other for a few days." Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, looking again at the little white cat baring its teeth at him, then asked softly, "What''s its name?"

    "Pomelo," Lian Xi answered directly.

    "Pomelo?" Yun Xiao''s gaze shifted slightly, "You named it?"

    "Yeah, does it sound bad?" Lian Xi lowered her head, still feeling a bit feverish.

    "It sounds wonderful!" Yun Xiao stood behind her, his chin resting on Lian Xi''s shoulder, looking down through the gap in her dress at the three small mounds, he asked the little white cat, "Pomelo, do you recognize me?"

    "Of course, I recognize you! A viinous scoundrel whomits every sin under the sun, a murderer asmon as grass, the very embodiment of trash! You dare bully Lil Xi, may you face the curse of having no descendants to carry on your name!" dered the little white cat fiercely.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao''s thoughts flickered, and he pulled a small ck creature from his embrace, asking, "And do you recognize this one?"

    The little white cat''s pupils dted dramatically as it leaped back, shocked, "What in the heavens is this ugly thing?"

    "Shut your mouth," Blue Star sneered.

    "Spout nonsense again, and I''ll devour you!" Red Moon red.

    "Come at me then, you ugly beast," the little white cat retorted angrily.

    "Enough, this doesn''t concern you anymore," Yun Xiao said as he tucked the small ck creature back, then turned his attention back to the snarling little white cat.

    He pondered, "It recognizes me because it saw me y the Mystic Earth Immortal, but it does not recognize Blue Star or Red Moon. Does this mean it has no connection with the Pomelo of the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Bell? At least, there''s no inherited memory?"

    Yun Xiao spected but couldn''t be certain his guess was entirely urate. More observation was needed.

    After a moment of silence, he suddenly pinched Lian Xi''s cheek, asking with a lightugh, "Little Xi, if I''m not mistaken, this must be the Primordial Pagoda, right?"

    Startled by his sudden guess, Lian Xi stammered, "H-how did you know?"

    "Just a guess," Yun Xiao looked at her with a slight surprise, "So, you did seed in merging with the Primordial Pagoda?"

    "Sort of..." Lian Xi replied, her gaze lowered.

    "What do you mean by ''sort of''?" asked Yun Xiao.

    "If the Mystic Earth Immortal had arrived a bitter, giving me time to recover, I wouldn''t have been so defenseless at that moment," Lian Xi recalled regretfully.

    She was supposed to be the hope for everyone, yet due to a slight misstep, she found herself in a dire situation!

    Thankfully, Yun Xiao turned the tide, granting her a chance.

    "So, your safety is assured moving forward?" Yun Xiao inquired.

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    "As I continue to integrate and assimte the essence of the Pagoda, there shouldn''t be a problem. Pomelo said there would be a significant leap forward," Lian Xi''s eyes brightened as she spoke of her future prospects.

    "That''s good to hear," Yun Xiao nodded, then added, "But, you were nning to keep this from me?"

    "I¡­ I was wrong," Lian Xi said, her voice tinged with guilt.

    "It''s not your fault, surely this little kitten told you not to say anything," Yun Xiao caressed her cheek.

    "I am a mighty tiger!" Pomelo bared her teeth once more.

    Yun Xiao chuckled at it, then provocatively stated, "Lil Xi is mine; you can''t take her away."

    "Ugh! Shameless!" Pomelo retched.

    Yun Xiao found that despite her ferocity, she was somehow more adorable than the white tiger from before.

    In the vast expanse of the Heavenly Realm, where the Primordial Bell and the Primordial Pagoda stood as symbols of untold power, a revtion came to light. Both were manifestations of a white tiger named Pomelo, stirring Yun Xiao''s curiosity about their interconnectedness.

    "Could their rtionship be akin to that of Chen Xi and Lian Xi?" he mused, considering the bond between the two incarnations of Pomelo he had encountered.

    Chen Xi, as Pomelo, had witnessed much by Yun Xiao''s side, now residing with him in the guise of the Heavenly Realm''s Primordial Bell.

    With this thought, Yun Xiao found a semnce of peace.

    "I... I think I''ll return to Master''s lotus tform," Lian Xi said, her cheeks painted with blushes of innocence, overwhelmed by Yun Xiao''s imposing presence.

    Knowing when to press and when to retreat, Yun Xiao, with a smile, agreed and escorted her to Dean Yu''s lotus tform before swiftly departing, leaving a trail of light in his wake.

    "To save you, he risked everything," Dean Yu remarked to her disciple, her smile tinged with a blend of admiration and envy. "In this world, you''d be hard-pressed to find another so suited to you. Do not let him slip away, child."

    The ideal Immortal partner, a match made in the ethereal realms, was rare and enviable.

    "Common sayings hold, ''We envy the lovebirds and not the Immortals,'' but you, being both, are truly enviable," Dean Yu added.

    "Master, I need to rest for a while," Lian Xi replied, her lips quivering slightly as she took a seat, her demeanor shy.

    The turmoil of the world seemed distant on the tranquil lotus tform.

    "Lil Xi! Lil Xi! Great news!" Pomelo eximed, barely containing her excitement, whispering fervently from within her embrace.

    "What is it?" Lian Xi inquired.

    "You''re about to strike it rich!" Pomelo vibrated with excitement.

    "Rich? How so?" Lian Xi was puzzled.

    "I scratched that detestable man and discovered something!" Pomelo''s eyes twinkled with mischief.

    "What did you find on him?" Lian Xi asked, curiosity piqued.

    "The power of the Primordial Martial Dao! And it''s a Martial Furnace," Pomelo revealed.

    "A Martial Furnace? How does he possess such a thing?" Lian Xi questioned.

    "The Primordial Dao is the foremost among the Immortal Daos, widespread in its inheritance. His origins are mysterious, so it''s not unusual he possesses such power. But to find a Martial Furnace so pure and akin to yours is exceedingly rare in the mortal realm," Pomelo exined, its gaze cunning.

    "Oh, but what does this have to do with bing rich?" Lian Xi still didn''t understand.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "The significance is immense! You cultivate with the Yin Furnace, and he possesses the Yang Furnace!"

    After this revtion, Pomelo whispered eagerly into Lian Xi''s ear, detailing a scheme that would enhance her powers through their union.

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    As Lian Xi absorbed Pomelo''s n, her cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red. "To take a fraction at first, then a third the second time, and finally, to consume his Yang Furnace entirely, creating a Primordial Yin-Yang Furnace and boosting my cultivation to surpass that of a Yang Immortal instantly?"

    Muttering to herself, she then vehemently shook her head, "Pomelo, this won''t do. I can''t harm him."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 469: The State of the Nine Hells!

    Chapter 469: The State of the Nine Hells!

    "What harm? Isn''t he a maelstrom of power? You''ve merely consumed his Martial Furnace, necessitating his retraining. With his capabilities, he might recover in a few months," Pomelo cajoled with a gentle persuasion.

    "Yet, yet... he imed he needed a few days to confront both the Sky Source Immortal and the Mystic Earth Immortal without my intervention. How could I possibly interfere?" Lian Xi pondered, her resolve to refuse strengthening.

    "Lil Xi!" Pomelo bared her teeth, her fury palpable, "Hey, are you mistaken? You''re the savior! This is the very purpose of your existence!"

    "He seems more suited..."

    "Suited for what? Chickens?" Pomelo, grasping Lian Xi''s cor with a severity that brooked no argument, dered, "Haven''t you realized? He''s fundamentally different from you; by nature, a capricious and untethered fiend, cing hope in him is perilous. Such a being could pose a greater danger to humanity. You, on the other hand, are the true chosen one! You are the most exalted, selected by the Primordial Heavenly Dao. You must adhere to your principles and true heart, not let love corrode your spiritual essence!"

    "Untethered fiend..." Lian Xi echoed the term.

    "Exactly!" Pomelo looked into her eyes intently, "Think carefully, Lil Xi. He''s an unpredictable factor, outwardly ethereal, yet inwardly greedy, wrathful, foolish, and lustful. If you let him dominate, you''re entrusting the fate of humanity to a fanatic. Should his rage lead to a massacre, you would beplicit!"

    Those words pierced Lian Xi''s heart like a sword. Her recent interactions with Yun Xiao shed through her mind, bringing with them a surge of inexplicable fear, quickly followed by a sensation of suffocation.

    "By subduing him, you assert your path," Pomelo passionately argued.

    "Wait." Lian Xi, flushed with embarrassment, pleaded, "Please, no more talk of <em>subduing</em>."

    Pomelo was puzzled. "Does that word have another meaning?"

    Lian Xi was at a loss for words.

    "So, what do you say? Just three times, and you''ll fulfill your mission in the best way possible! It''s a win-win, and he''s not unattractive," Pomelo added.

    "But, but I don''t know how!" Lian Xi protested, her face ame.

    "Don''t know how?!" Pomelo was exasperated, "You''ve wasted your womanhood."

    "Do you know how?" Lian Xi challenged.

    "I don''t either," Pomelo admitted.

    "Then you''ve wasted it too."

    "I''m a tigress, not a woman."

    The two, a woman and a cat, shared a moment of silent agreement.

    Finally, gazing down at the cloud-enshrouded Nine Hells below, Pomelo sighed, "Once we reach the Nine Hells, I''ll find some sage''s writings to cram, alright?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    A hum pierced the air as Yun Xiao descended, and the mountains and rivers of the Nine Hells unfolded before his eyes.

    "Hmm?"

    Something felt amiss. From his lofty vantage, the Nine Hells seemed to have transformed into the Primordial Ruins. The world was shrouded in thick, Immortal mist, akin to a realm of fantasy. Within the fog, radiant light bathed thend. Flora and fauna sparkled with an ethereal essence, and mythical beasts soared through the skies. Faint melodies of Immortal music drifted, offering a sense of serene emptiness and liberation to any who listened.

    Farther in the distance, human settlements basked in dazzling light, their inhabitants engaged in joyous celebration, smiles on every face, as if they had found paradise.

    "The atmosphere of the entire Nine Hells has shifted."

    What was once a mere mortal realm had be a splendid heavenly pce.

    Even the people seemed transformed.

    "An illusion..." Yun Xiao activated the Prison Warden Sigil, turning it to its Soulfire Eye form, and opened the eye for a closer look below.

    Now, the Nine Hells appeared dark and overcast, shrouded in gloom with withered vegetation!

    In the cities, beings no longer pursued their cultivation but wandered the streets with derangedughter, grasping at the air like zombies, some even stripping in public, drooling and groping at nothingness.

    "This must be the work of the Dreamsea Abalones, affecting the entire Nine Hells," Dean Yu informed the assembly.

    "These demons aren''t targeting our world specifically; the mere spillover of their sh with the Sky Source Immortal has caused this. It demonstrates their formidable power," a solemn voice noted.

    The philosophy of the Primordial Academy, and by extension Lian Xi''s own beliefs, was challenged.

    In truth, the Dreamsea Abalones likely harbored greater disdain for the Primordial Academy than for the Three Immortals, considering it beneath their notice due to the academy''s small scale.

    As they analyzed the situation, a pale girl in a tattered white dress, younger and smaller than Lian Xi, floated towards Yun Xiao.

    "A corpse demon!" Dean Yu, along with the others, furrowed their brows, on high alert.

    The reign of the Dreamsea Abalones over the Oblivion Demon Sea had ousted even that of the Martial Emperor n, despite several breaks in session, evening close to extinction.

    Each time, corpse demons were the cause!

    For the Primordial Academy, the destruction wrought by corpse demons on humanity was far more terrifying than that of the Dreamsea Abalones.

    Murderous intent arose among them.

    However, they soon saw the corpse demon approach Yun Xiao with respect, addressing him as Immortal Yun. They could only exchange looks of disbelief, once again marveling at the incredulity that was Yun Xiao.

    "How does it stand?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Three thousand Dreamsea Abalones have cornered the Sky Source Immortal into the Immortal Asylum, whittling away at his essence through attrition," Pale Revenant replied with a bow, eyes filled with reverence.

    "Their aim is the Immortal Asylum as well?" Yun Xiao prodded.

    "Yes." Pale Revenant nodded obediently.

    "And the tide of battle?"

    "It''s a stalemate for now. Both sides are cautious, unlikely to gain any advantage," Pale Revenant said.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao turned to share a nce with Dean Yu and the others.

    They all understood the age-old adage. When the snipe and the m grappled, it was the fisherman who profited.

    "Regardless, the Dreamsea Abalones have inadvertently aided us," Shen Cang said.

    "They are world-ending fiends, whichever prevails brings cmity upon the innocent," Dean Yu responded, shaking her head.

    "What''s our next move?" Yun Dahe questioned.

    Yun Xiao pondered briefly before responding, "The Dreamsea Abalones must know of our presence by now. Should they learn of the Mystic Earth Immortal''s demise, they''ll likely seek an alliance with us."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "And your decision?" Yu Ningxiang asked earnestly.

    "I fear no illusions; so, my n is to eliminate the Sky Source Immortal first. This aligns with rescuing the people of the Primordial Ruins," Yun Xiao decisively decided.

    "To ally with demons?" Dean Yu and the others were taken aback, staring at Yun Xiao in disbelief.

    "Is that not permissible?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    Dean Yu lowered her head, solemnly stating, "It goes against the Academy''s ancestral will."

    "In times of life and death, adaptability is key," Yun Xiao softly countered.

    They fell into a prolonged silence, eventually acquiescing without further words.

    "See that?" Pomelo peered through the gaps in her clothing, ring at Yun Xiao, "He harbors corpse demons, beings of resentment and ughter, born from the dead! His predilections are too perverse!"

    "I''m aware," Lian Xi replied, massaging her temples.

    "And that corpse demon is female!"

    "Enough."

    "Since you''ve misced your affections, to spare future regret, grant him three soul-searing experiences!"

    "Enough!"

    Their banter was interrupted as the others turned their gaze downward.

    Amidst the shifting clouds, silhouettes flickered in and out of visibility.

    Yun Xiao smiled slightly, "The Dreamsea Abalones, they''ve arrived."

 Chapter 470: Peerless Beauty?

    Chapter 470: Peerless Beauty?

    After the arrival of the Dreamsea Abalones, a chill instinctively spread among many in the assembly.

    Before the Three Immortals, demons and devils were the true adversaries of mankind!

    In the vast expanse of the myriad worlds, too many tales of woe wrought by the Dreamsea Abalones had been left behind.

    The Martial Emperor n may have destroyed the Devil Ark, but never conquered the Oblivion Demon Sea!

    In an instant, hundreds of icy gazes turned simultaneously toward the approaching figures.

    Emerging from the mists below, approximately 200 silhouettes made their way through the enchanting white smoke, their arrival apanied by a fantastically alluring sound. Laughter, light and intoxicating, wafted through the air, tickling the bones of those nearby. Though yet to fully appear, it seemed as if they were already whispering sweet nothings into Yun Xiao''s ear, their dreamy murmurs entangling him.

    Soon, the scene transformed into one of ethereal beauty, with light fabrics dancing in the air, and a flock of graceful figures entering the view, drifting into everyone¡¯s sight.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze was intense as he looked on. To his astonishment, these 200 figures were all women! And not just any women, but beauties.

    Each possessed a nearly perfect form, with slender waists that suggested they could be epassed by a single arm, long, graceful legs, and figures that were the epitome of elegance. Their long hair fluttered in the breeze, and their faces were distinctive. Some were delicate, others enchanting, some cold as ice, others as warm as fire.

    What drew the eye most, however, was their attire, or theck thereof. d in little more than sheer fabrics, their sublime beauty was barely concealed, exuding a saintly allure.

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    These 200 ethereal beauties, with their light songs and graceful dances, approached, their sweetughter enchanting, their movements full of charm and allure, their eyes brimming with fiery suggestions¡­

    Yun Xiao cleared his throat, thinking to himself, ¡°Even if they''re demons, even a celestial emperor would be tempted in this situation.¡±

    Illusion, confusion, and bewitchment¡­ these were the tools of the Dreamsea Abalones! Their entrance in such a manner was not beyond Yun Xiao¡¯s expectations.

    ¡°Don¡¯t look!¡± Lian Xi, seeing Yun Xiao enchanted, pinched his arm in irritation.

    ¡°Lil Xi, I¡¯m using this eye,¡± Yun Xiao pointed to the Soulfire Eye on his forehead.

    ¡°And what do you see?¡± Lian Xi asked, somewhat disbelieving.

    ¡°Something akin to an abalone, but not ck, white like a pearl,¡± Yun Xiao revealed the true form of the Dreamsea Abalone.

    ¡°You could discern that?¡± Lian Xi no longer harbored any annoyance.

    To others, they were beholding over 200 embodiments of charm and beauty, yet what Yun Xiao saw was a cluster of ms opening and closing... and yet, he felt no disgust. This was because Yun Xiao had nced only once with the Soulfire Eye; the rest of the time, he indulged in the illusion.

    "Are all Dreamsea Abalones female?" Yun Xiao whispered to Lian Xi.

    "Only their Emperor is not," Lian Xi replied.

    "An Emperor? Is he the Mirage Immortal?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Yes! Only he is male; the rest are female," Lian Xi exined.

    "Does that mean the entire Dreamsea Abalone n is his harem?" Yun Xiao asked, somewhat shocked.

    "You could say that," Lian Xi replied with a hint of speechlessness.

    "What do you mean you could say that?" Yun Xiao was puzzled.

    Lian Xi paused before exining, "All Dreamsea Abalones are born female, but if their Emperor dies, a new one will automatically transform into a male to continue the lineage... All females will mate with him, ensuring the propagation of their species." She paused, "This method of inheritance guarantees the transmission of their finest genes, with each generation surpassing thest."

    Yun Xiao''s worldview expanded with this revtion.

    "So, there are no males among the Dreamsea Abalones initially. Whoever bes the Emperor turns male and automatically ims the entire n? And if the Emperor dies, a new one bes male immediately..." Yun Xiao was astounded.

    "The world is vast and filled with wonders." Though Lian Xi expressed wonder, the coolness in her eyes towards the Dreamsea Abalones remained unchanged.

    "Bing Emperor changes one to male, pairing with the entire n, meaning he could also reproduce with his own mother or daughter... My word!" Yun Xiao was dizzy, trying to grasp this ethical conundrum.

    "The Dreamsea Abalones don''t have concepts of parents; each individual is separate, with only the Emperor and the n members mattering, so there are no ethical dilemmas," Lian Xi rified, pouting slightly at Yun Xiao and quipping, "Why are you so interested anyway."

    "Just curiosity." Yun Xiao coughed.

    As they conversed in hushed tones, the Dreamsea Abalone beauties arrayed themselves in two rows before them.

    Then, from the depths of the cloud sea, the most ethereal mist approached, and amidst the throng of graceful figures, a dreamlike beauty in snow-white gossamer, the most dignified and elegant Yun Xiao had ever seen, made her way forward.

    Though scantily d, she radiated not vulgarity but the aura of a dreamy Immortal. Her seductive figure represented desire, while her elegant visage spoke of purity.

    "This Dreamsea Abalone is the most beautiful," Yun Xiao dered.

    Lian Xi, with a hint of embarrassment, whispered, "He''s the Mirage Immortal, the Emperor of the Dreamsea Abalones."

    "Good heavens," Yun Xiao''s vision dimmed for a moment. After giving the beauty another look, he expressed his disbelief, "His figure is entirely feminine, and yet... there''s more."

    No sooner had he spoken than his gaze drifted downward.

    Indeed, there was a noticeable bulge, the only discordant note on this otherwise perfect form. Imagine, if you will, a beauty unmatched, with a figure to ignite the deepest desires, harboring a secret that could make one question the very fabric of life.

    "But of course! She is not human after all, but a shellfish, and oddities are to be expected." Yun Xiao set aside his initial surprise, epting the Mirage Immortal for what it truly was, a male of its kind.

    With this eptance, his gaze softened. He hadn''t expected the Mirage Immortal to personallye to see them.

    Now, surrounded by a throng of her kind, the Mirage Immortal made his way directly toward Yun Xiao.

    In that moment, all the Yin-Yang Immortals watched him intently, a silent warning not to tread foolishly.

    "The illustrious Yun Xiao, I''ve long heard tales of your divine visage. Seeing you today, I marvel that such celestial grace exists in this mortal realm," the Mirage Immortal began, his lips parting in a smile, his voice more delicate and ethereal than any woman''s.

    Yun Xiao, rendered speechless by his feminine voice, responded indifferently, "ttery will get you nowhere. What do you want?"

    "Word is, you''ve eradicated a great evil, ying the Mystic Earth Immortal?" he asked softly,ughter hiding in his tone.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

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    "How did you achieve it?" the Mirage Immortal inquired, his interest piqued by Yun Xiao''s apparent condition.

    He was still in the Five Decays Realm, an observation all too clear to the Mirage Immortal.

    The Oblivion Demon Sea didn''t have to face the Heavenly Decay; they faced only the Five Disasters. So, their realm was teeming with Yin-Yang Immortals.

    "That''s none of your concern," Yun Xiao retorted.

    The Mirage Immortal paused, then smiled wryly, "I hadn''t expected such a lofty figure as yourself to be so refreshingly candid and carefree. It adds to your charm."

    His smile, indeed, made it hard for anyone to harbor dislike. This Mirage Immortal, in both speech and self-reference, retained the mannerisms of a woman, suggesting a life mostly spent in feminine guise.

    "Speak inly," Yun Xiao said.

    "I admire your directness, so I''ll not beat around the bush," the Mirage Immortal said with a leisurely smile. "I propose we coborate to y the Sky Source Immortal."

    "Why should I partner with you?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Our interests align. With one Immortal down, you im the Primordial Ruins; I take the Immortal Asylum," the Mirage Immortal said, his eyes narrowing with a smile.

    "And why should I trust you?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "Between man and demon, a millennium of enmity needs no trust. Our alliance would be built solely on mutual benefit. Among us three, the Three Immortals still reign supreme. In a stand-off, the strongest must fall first! Then, we may vie amongst ourselves, relying on our own merits," the Mirage Immortal exined.

    "Well said," Yun Xiao acknowledged with a nce. "Seeing as you''vee to me, you must have a foolproof n?"

    "Not foolproof, but our cards are on the table," the Mirage Immortal nced back at the Immortal Asylum. "Our entire n has expended its power to confine the Sky Source Immortal within the asylum. Lost in illusion, his spirit will wane, growing ever weaker. When the timees, we strike together."

    "How long?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Three days," she answered.

    "Agreed," Yun Xiao nodded.

    The Mirage Immortal paused, then bowed, "Yun Xiao, a celestial being aloof from worldly affairs, decisive in action."

    "I hope your n justifies my decisiveness. Otherwise, the wrath will fall upon your n," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    Hearing this, the Mirage Immortal and his entourage of diaphanous beautiesughed softly.

    Then, they bowed in unison to Yun Xiao and took their leave, vanishing into the mists.

    "Is that settled then?"

    The crowd looked at Yun Xiao, still somewhat uneasy. They all knew the Dreamsea Abalones to be creatures of great danger, their threat and ambition scarcely less than that of the Three Immortals. The lower the Mirage Immortal bowed, the more dangerous he became.

    "Let''s agree for now; who knows what the next three days may bring?" Yun Xiao said.

    At this, the crowd could only respond with a mix ofughter and tears.

    For them, three days blinked away, but for Yun Xiao... who could say what changes mighte?

    "You cane out now." As the Dreamsea Abalone arrived, Pale Revenant had hidden herself away, but now Yun Xiao summoned her back.

    "Immortal Yun." Pale Revenant approached, head bowed, a picture of reverence and humility.

    Her posture prompted puzzled nces among Dean Yu and Shen Cang.

    "Are there still deep sea corpse demons in the Oblivion Demon Sea?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Deep down, there are many," Pale Revenant paused, "Frankly, it''s a sea of corpses, silent for years."

    "Good, I give you three days to pige their domain," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    Pale Revenant looked up at him. She wanted to stay and protect Yun Xiao at this critical moment. Yet, she also knew that Yun Xiao must have a better n.

    So, she obediently nodded, "Yes, then I shall take my leave."

    "Thank you. When you return, I''ll cleanse you again," Yun Xiao said softly.

    "Thank you, Immortal Yun." Pale Revenant turned, her slender figure quickly vanishing into the mists.

    The others continued to watch Yun Xiao, awaiting his directives.

    "Everyone, rest for three days," Yun Xiao said.

    The crowd looked to Dean Yu and Shen Cang.

    "Let''s follow Yun Xiao''s lead," they said in unison.

    "Alright!"

    They descended into the Nine Hells, entering a city and temporarily settling in a courtyard.

    "If the Three Immortals win, the myriad worlds be a nest of Gu. If the Dreamsea Abalones win, all beings fall into dreams, the myriad worlds be a sea of corpses... both paths lead to death!"

    Dean Yu stood in the wind, her white hair fluttering, eyes filled with unending concern.

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    In the courtyard, two figures clung tightly to each other, their nces full of silentmunication.

    "Who among them carries hope?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s ThoughtsN?v(el)B\\jnn

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 471: Do You Still Think Youre Human?

    Chapter 471: Do You Still Think You''re Human?

    In the deste reaches of the Blood Devil Ruins, the once pitch-ck sea of blood had diminished by a third. The coagted darkness of old had given way to a lively crimson tide, pulsing with energy, waves crashing thunderously, shrouded in dense, rolling smoke.

    "That damnable Human Zenith Immortal has finally departed!" Deep within this sea, a figure shrouded in red mist, a vision of perilous beauty, came to a halt. She panted, her face pale, her chest rising and falling in a rhythm that painted a picture of a tempest stilled, breathtaking in its raw intensity.

    "Damn, I thought I was a goner for sure. At least I seeded in dying him¡­" she murmured, relief washing over her.

    Had the Human Zenith Immortal and the Mystic Earth Immortal arrived together at the Jade Immortal Tower, disaster would have been certain. The Three Immortals, in their arrogance, sought too much¡ªaiming for three things at once; to seize the Immortal Asylum, eradicate the remnants of the Blood Devils, and shatter the Primordial Pagoda. Now, their ambition was cut in half.

    "What shall we do next?" the War Princess mused aloud, her gaze dropping to her chest in contemtion.

    At her words, a sharp pain seized her, causing her to cry out, her body trembling violently. With a grimace, she witnessed blood surge from her eyes, ears, mouth, and nose, swirling before her to form a blood effigy of Yun Xiao.

    This effigy, unmistakably his likeness, was yet tethered to her, signifying she remained alive, her consciousness and warmth intact.

    "Why''d you do that? That hurt like hell!" she protested, annoyance threading her voice.

    "You''re too slow. So, I decided to do it myself," the blood-formed Yun Xiao responded."Aghhh!" she whimpered, feeling wronged.

    "You''ll grow ustomed to it," he retorted, unsympathetic.

    "You...!" Her frustration was palpable, trapped in a situation she could neither escape nor endure withoutint. She swallowed her anger, cursing him silently, all her ire choked down in silent fury.

    "Scoundrel, lowlife, you deserve a thousand cuts!" As she hurled insults, she realized the blood figure entwined with countless threads of her blood, resembling a gaping abyssal maw, voraciously consuming the devilish blood around them. The moltenva heated the blood, making its absorption easier and faster.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Like a leviathan, he drew countless waves of blood towards him, creating a storm in which even the War Princess found herself adrift.

    Behind this blood figure, she bore witness to the extreme terror of Yun Xiao, her heart initially seized with shock, and then, inexplicably, tears clouded her vision.

    "Why are you crying?" the blood figure paused to ask, turning back to her.

    "Nothing." The War Princess shook her head.

    "Speak," the blood figure demanded, eyes narrowing.

    Frightened, the War Princess could only bite her lip and respond, "So much devil blood... I can''t help but feel the pain and resentment of countless kin who died here."

    Silence fell upon the blood figure for a moment before he spoke, "It''s all history now. Try to see beyond it."

    "How can I? Who''s at fault? Your kind always ims the moral high ground. Now that devils are being ughtered, what would you say? In our histories, could you be painted as unforgivable viins?" the War Princess retorted, her voice tinged with anger.

    The blood figure fell silent once more, and finally, he said, "I don''t know. But I am human, fighting for my people, which is my righteous duty."

    "The question is, are you still human?" the War Princess asked, her gaze lost.

    The blood figure looked deeply at her, saying nothing more. Turning away, he embraced the vast sea of blood, frenziedly absorbing the grudges and power of the blood sea.

    Atst, he spoke, "I can''t answer your question now. Let''s continue together. Maybe, if one day we traverse all realms, I might find your answer."

    "Can I really stay with you that long?" the War Princess asked, her voice filled with uncertainty.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao affirmed, his reply simple yet resolute.

    The War Princess lingered on those words before finally lowering her head, whispering, "Thank you."

    "You''re wee," Yun Xiao replied, looking forward. The blood figure''s face broke into a smile as he dered, "Enough talk. Let''s forge ahead to be a Yang Immortal!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a certain city in the Nine Hells, Yun Xiaopletely absorbed the Mystic Earth Immortal''s Kun Sigil into his Prison Warden Sigil.

    Upon his Life Sigil, a vast expanse ofplete continentalndscape nowy, an addition to the Life Sigils of 100,000 descendants of the Three Immortals. The number of Runes had burgeoned to 9,000,000, forming a staggering 100,00 miniature formations capable of unleashing a maelstrom of attacks in an instant.

    "I''m pretty rich now after taking down the Mystic Earth Immortal and the 100,00 descendants."

    The Cmity Bones that Yun Xiao had obtained elevated his Sword Aura to almost 10,000,000yers. At this moment, he felt the presence of a bottleneck.

    It became evident that increasing the Sword Aura and Rune count any further would be a formidable challenge.

    "Nheless, over 9,000,000 is already well beyond the level of the Three Immortals." Yun Xiao recognized his supreme status across various domains in the mortal realm, including swordsmanship and the way of the dao. Having absorbed the essence of numerous schools of thought, he swiftly ascended to be the unparalleled leading figure in the Primordial Ruins, without peer in the world. The only thing hecked was cultivation.

    "The Five Decays Realm is a unique state that cannot be rushed. I can only passively await the arrival of the next four decays."

    Waiting was his only option.

    "It''s annoying that I couldn¡¯t find a single Sword Heart in their belongings; likely, the Three Immortals ordered them to all be destroyed after learning I could enhance my power with Sword Hearts."

    This was a minor frustration. Beyond this, everything aligned closely with Yun Xiao''s expectations.

    "Now that I have so much stuff that I can''t use, I''m thinking most of the mid to low-tier treasures should be used in rebuilding the Primordial Ruins and Nine Hells." Having organized everything, Yun Xiao stepped out from his chamber.

    In another chamber, Lian Xi was deep in her cultivation.

    A thunderous explosion and a surge of lightning fire indicated a monumental breakthrough, as if a celestial white tiger roared, sending a vast aura sweeping across the Nine Hells. The mountains and earth trembled, the air teeming with screaming lightning and mes.

    Despite the grandeur of this anomaly, the figure that appeared before Yun Xiao was a pure and charming young beauty.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Yun Xiao," she ran up to Yun Xiao, clutching his arm with delight, "I have wonderful news¡ªI''ve be a Yang Immortal!"

    "So soon?" Upon closer inspection, Yun Xiao noted the radiant glow of her skin, the captivating luminescence, and the powerful, sun-like vigor within her, truly majestic and boundless, her being akin to a miniature world.

    "Did Pomelo help you?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "I did it on my own!" Lian Xi pouted.

    Laughing, Yun Xiao wrapped an arm around her waist, "Then, let me show you around. The Nine Hells is my homnd, after all."

    "Aren''t you continuing your cultivation? We''re going to take action in three days," Lian Xi asked.

    "No more training," Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Is it because of the peculiarities of the Five Decays Realm?" she asked.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao sighed softly, then smiled. "So, by strolling with you and seeking joy, I might have an epiphany."

    "Alright." Lian Xi nodded, a hint of nervousness coloring her cheeks a soft pink, perhaps anticipating something special.

    With a hum, Yun Xiao held her and ascended on his Sovereign Sword.

    "Hold tight!" Heughed, suddenly elerating. The snow-white figure of the girl crashed into his embrace with a series of startled cries.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul cut through the air, soaring into the distance.

    "Hey, how can I enjoy the scenery if we move this fast?" Lian Xi''s hair flew about, nestled in his arms.

    "We haven''t reached our destination yet," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Destination?" Lian Xi looked ahead, her heart racing.

    Soon, a spatial vortex appeared before them.

    "Where does this lead?" Lian Xi asked, a touch of nervousness in her voice.

    "To a ce called the Heavenly Realm," Yun Xiao gazed down at her, "where we met, a ce marked by our presence."

    "Ah?" Lian Xi was puzzled.

    "Just kidding," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Oh," she nodded, relieved.

    "You''ll like it here." With that, Yun Xiao led her into the vortex.

    Amidst the flickering light and shadow, the little white tiger in Lian Xi''s arms popped its head out, whispering, "An uninhabited pocket world is the perfect chance! Three days, three attempts, you could rise above him, chest out, stepping over the Sky Source Immortal and the Human Zenith Immortal!"

    "I''m not doing it! Stop with the nonsense!" Lian Xi covered her ears.

    "You''re the nonsense!" Pomelo huffed.

    The two had arrived in the Heavenly Realm.

 Chapter 472: Are You Mad!?

    Chapter 472: Are You Mad!?

    In the Heavenly Realm''s market, bustling and vibrant as a smaller version of the Primordial Ruins, life thrummed with an umon vibrancy. Here, the faces of the people glowed with genuine smiles, untainted by the fears of yore. With the demon threat vanquished, the Divine Continent knew no disaster.

    Through the mist of incense and the mor of the streets, Yun Xiao glided, his Sovereign Sword a six-foot shadow beneath him, carrying Lian Xi at a pace that allowed the essence of mortal life to wash over them.

    "They brim with hope, how wonderful," Lian Xi observed, her eyes wide with the vibrancy of life as she gazed upon the scene below.

    "But," Yun Xiao''s voice was a weighty toll, "if the Celestial Sourcecore continues to unleash its decaying power, even the peace here will not be spared."

    Lian Xi nodded, her gaze shifting towards Yun Xiao. "Indeed, and this spells doom for all people in the lower worlds, potentially robbing them of the chance to ascend."

    This was his homnd, his reason, perhaps, for needing to vanquish the Three Immortals?

    "Let''s not dwell on the Three Immortals," Yun Xiao said, changing course to hover over the imperial pce. "Do you recognize any of this?" he asked, a smile in his voice.

    "Not really, but it feels... familiar," Lian Xi confessed, her confusion clear.

    "How familiar?" he pressed."As if... I''ve seen it in a dream..." Lian Xi''s voice trailed off, her cheeks warming with the blush of memory.

    "In your dreams, was there a divine vessel, or perhaps a dragon throne?" Yun Xiao''s question came out of the blue.

    Lian Xi, taken aback, stammered, "How did you know?"

    Hisughter was light, "I''ve dreamt of it too."

    Lian Xi''s response was a soft huff, her hands sping together, warmth spreading through her palms. She hadn''t imagined that her most embarrassingly intimate dreams were shared. The thought was mortifying.

    "Let''s walk the streets," she quickly changed the subject.

    "We can''t," Yun Xiao replied with a gentle but firm denial. For if they were to walk among the people, she would be hailed as the Empress, and their true identities would be revealed.

    "Come, Lil Xi, I''ll show you something intriguing," Yun Xiao promised, sparking curiosity in her eyes.

    "Something intriguing?" Lian Xi''s gaze drifted instinctively towards the grandest hall within the pce below, where their adventure was about to unfold.

    As Yun Xiao''s words hung in the air, they descended from the heavens, the tip of his Sovereign Sword guiding their path until they stood within the temporarily deserted pce.

    Candles flickered around them, casting a warm glow on the majestic, gold-and-crimson dragon pirs that stood tall and formidable.

    Before themy a series of steps leading up to a golden dragon throne, majestic and upright.

    With a swift leap, Yun Xiao ascended the steps and took his ce upon the throne, his gaze falling warmly on Lian Xi, her innocence aglow in the candlelight.

    Everything was familiar, yet Lian Xi''s demeanor and aura shone with a different kind of resilience; where Chen Xi was dominantly steadfast, Lian Xi was equally determined but with a softer, more clinging nature.

    Now, as she looked upon the familiar throne, a blush crept over her delicate features, her hands nervously twisting her gown, her breathing quickened by the surge of emotions.

    "Lian Xi,e here," Yun Xiao''s voice, warm yetmanding, left no room for refusal.

    "I, I..." she stammered, her eyes darting around, looking for a means to escape.

    "Come."

    Her only choice was to ascend the steps, her heart pounding audibly in the silent pce.

    Before she reached him, Yun Xiao reached out, pulling her to sit facing him on hisp.

    "Yun Xiao..." Lian Xi whispered, her voice a soft tremble, as she shyly lowered her head, her cheeks flushed like ripe peaches.

    "Now''s your chance! He''s asking for it! Stop pretending, take the initiative!" the little white tiger urged within her arms.

    What was his intention? Lian Xi could feel it, the position they were in left her acutely aware of every slight movement. And then, his hand moved to her waist, to the ribbon that held her gown together. With just a pull, the fabric would loosen, the gown ready to slip away at his slightest touch.

    In that moment, Lian Xi''s heart raced, her lips quivering as if touched by the chill of dawn. Her voice, a whisper as delicate as the wings of a mosquito, asked, "W-what are you intending to do?"

    "What do you think?" Yun Xiao''s voice, a shadowy caress by her ear, hinted at mysteries untold. "Is there anything more marvelous in this world than dreams bing reality?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Dreams..." Visions of them together, seated upon the dragon throne, flooded her mind, heightening her nervousness.

    "Don''t hold back, squeeze him dry!" the little white tiger inside her urged, its patience burning thin. Yet, it dared not break the charged silence with its voice.

    But Lian Xi harbored reservations still.

    sping Yun Xiao''s hand, she looked up into his eyes, her lips parting to speak, "But do you love me? If you love me and wish to spend a lifetime by my side, then¡ªonly then¡ªcan it be this way."

    "I do love you, with all my heart," Yun Xiao affirmed.

    "Why? We''ve known each other for such a short while," she breathed softly.

    "Not short at all. We''ve known each other in dreams for longer," Yun Xiao replied, cradling her wless face in his hands. "Lil Xi, it''s fate, all the myriad versions of you belong to me."

    Upon hearing this, Lian Xi''s tension melted away.

    "So be good," he whispered, his hands exploring gently as he added, "I''ll be gentle."

    She bowed her head, her eyes alight with an impassioned ze, her emotions rendering her speechless.

    However, just as they neared the brink of bing one, Lian Xi, her lips bitten in turmoil, pushed Yun Xiao away after a lengthy struggle and ran.

    "No! We can''t... not yet." Descending the steps, she straightened her white gown, casting an apologetic nce back at Yun Xiao.

    "I must return to my master!" With that, she dashed away like a tempest, racing out of the pce towards the gateway to the Nine Hells in the sky.

    As she fled the pce, Pomelo burst from her embrace, exasperated, "Lil Xi, are you mad? You let the duck slip right through your fingers!"

    Lian Xi bristled, "Who are you calling a duck?"

    "The duck in question is not the one you''re thinking of," the little white tiger retorted, its whiskers bristling in irritation. "He was offering you a fortune on a silver tter, and here you are, hesitating!"

    Lian Xi took a deep breath, her resolve hardening. "I''ve made up my mind. I love him, and for that very reason, I cannot harm him."

    "You''re missing out on a monumental opportunity for foolish sentimentality," Pomelomented in disbelief.

    "Silence. I can grow strong on my own terms, without resorting to such harmful shortcuts."

    Lian Xi transformed into a ze of lightning and fire, soaring into the sky without a moment''s hesitation.

    "The problem is, with the Heavenly Decay spreading through the myriad, you''re out of time!" Pomelo eximed, practically spitting blood.

    "I can strive alongside him. He has plenty of skills of his own," Lian Xi stated earnestly.

    "By joining forces with him, you''ll have to y by his rules. His mind harbors violent thoughts; he''ll drag you down with him!" Pomelo warned, barely containing her anger.

    "Why do you assume it''ll be a descent into corruption? Can''t I be the one to influence him for the better?" Lian Xi countered.

    Frustrated and fiery, Pomelo roared, "You''re delusional with love!"

    "You''re just too deeply prejudiced against him," Lian Xi paused, gazing towards the Heavenly Realm. "I''m more certain than anyone that he''s a good person."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the pce, Yun Xiao remained seated on the dragon throne, somewhat bemused by the turn of events.

    "The prize has flown the coop; how does that make you feel?" Blue Star emerged from his robes.

    "I''m actually quite happy," Yun Xiao said, smiling towards the direction Lian Xi had departed.

    "Your mind might be content, but your body begs to differ," Blue Star chuckled.

    "The mind is what matters most," Yun Xiao replied.

    Blue Star tilted his head, raising an eyebrow, "If she had willingly sought to drain your essence, would you have seized the moment to tear out her heart while she was lost in passion?"

    "Yes." Yun Xiao toyed with a stone in his hand, contemting. "After all, she''s grown stronger, bing a Yang Immortal. Under normal circumstances, I wouldn''t stand a chance against her now."

    "That''s rather ruthless of you," Blue Star noted, surprised.

    "You''re mistaken," Yun Xiao shook his head, taking a deep breath. "What you fail to understand is, she is Chen Xi."

    "Are you sure? They don''t even share the same personality," Blue Star questioned.

    "Personality is shaped by life''s experiences and circumstances. Even I have changed over time... But I can feel it; her core essence is the same as Chen Xi''s." Yun Xiao spoke with conviction, "So, despite the different personalities they present to me, I am certain she''s the same person."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 473: A Stranger From Beyond!

    Chapter 473: A Stranger From Beyond!

    "So, ording to you, the original temperament of those incarnations of transcending cmity mirrors that of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor. Despite her icy demeanor, at her core, she isn''t much different from those two girls," Blue Star mused.

    "So you think so too?" Yun Xiao said, a hint of relief softening the lines of his face, as he found himself pondering theplexity of life itself.

    "Still, that''s just spection... Life is aplex weave, so intricate that not even you can be sure whether the person you were at twelve and the person you are now are truly the same," Blue Star said.

    "You''re right." Yun Xiao nodded. He took the stone in his hand and held it under the candlelight, watching it flicker and dance. "That''s why I choose to believe that this stone is not a separate soul but a memory imbued with emotion."

    Blue Star broke the silence again. "There''s a strong chance you''re right. But have you noticed? Faced with the same event, they made different choices... Chen Xi clung more to her mission, while Lian Xi ced you on the same pedestal as her mission."

    "The first urrence happened at different times. My encounter with Chen Xi was more straightforward; we were still strangers then. Lian Xi now has memories of both reality and dreams," Yun Xiao exined.

    Blue Star''s response came with a meaningful smile. "That''s a sound exnation. Then it''s time to turn those dream memories into real ones."

    Yun Xiao''s grin was wistful. "I''d like that, but we''re at an impasse. She doesn''t want to harm me, so I must wait until my strength surpasses hers again."

    "Wow, you''re really something!" Red Moon eximed, having listened quietly until now."What do you mean?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Just think about it. With your idea, countless incarnations of transcending cmity, in their dreams, encounter you again and again. It''s as if you have an endless supply of beautiful twins, each one new, offering endless <em>first times</em>. This must be that old witch''s retribution!" Red Moon marveled.

    Yun Xiao, momentarily stunned, smacked the little ck creature on the head. "That''s a twisted way of thinking!"

    "I''m justying out the possibilities. You''re the one making ns!" Red Moon chuckled.

    "Why hit me?" Blue Star protested, rubbing his head.

    The trio, a man and two beasts, descended into a yful bickering.

    Clutching the stone, Yun Xiao spoke solemnly, "Lil Xi, the answers I seek... They''re within this, aren''t they?"

    The stone''s light twinkled, offering no reply.

    After a moment, Yun Xiao''s expression darkened, and he turned to Blue Star with a grave question. "If the Three Immortals were to die, resolving the crisis of the Heavenly Decay spreading across the myriad world, and her mission wereplete, will she choose to end her own life again?"

    Blue Star ceased his yful scuffle with Red Moon, adopting a tone of grave sincerity. "From the outset, you should have understood that every incarnation of transcending cmity is ephemeral. Regardless of victory or defeat, death is her destined path."

    "No!" Yun Xiao protested fiercely.

    "It''s not for you to decide. The prerogative belongs to the Primordial Mother of the Dao, who relieves the myriad sufferings," Blue Star intoned.

    Yun Xiao fell silent.

    "Cherish the time with her, for who knows where the next incarnation will be found?" Blue Star sighed.

    "I understand," Yun Xiao murmured, his head bowed, weighed down by a heavy heart.

    "Oh, I also want to remind you of something," Blue Star suddenly said.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao looked up intently.

    "The Primordial Immortal Ancestor is the ruinous being intent on your destruction. Enjoy the game, but don''t take it to heart. Even if you ascend to the pinnacle of the Dao Realm, you would still lose to her," Blue Star sighed deeply.

    Yun Xiao''s brows knitted together.

    "Yun Xiao," Red Moon chuckled mischievously, "Actually, Senior Sister Zhao is quite wonderful. She truly is your home."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?N?v(el)B\\jnn

    As an azure light pierced the heavens, Yun Xiao passed through the breach, entering the Nine Hells.

    He first visited the Sword Ruins, only to find that even the Sword Cultivators there were lost in the illusions of the Dreamsea Abalones, forgetting themselves and sinking into oblivion day after day.

    Fortunately, the Sword Warden and Netherworld Emperor remained obedient, spreading their teachings in the Divine Continent and so avoiding this cmity.

    The situation at the Sword Ruins underscored the urgency of resolving the conflict with the Three Immortals and Dreamsea Abalones for Yun Xiao.

    "Three days!" Yun Xiao muttered. Lian Xi was unwilling to harm him. So, he also wouldn''t force the situation either and steal her cultivation.

    "It''s time to look for other methods." Yun Xiao mused to himself. "The Human Zenith Immortal might have returned to the Primordial Ruins. I''ll take a look."

    Alone, his movements were unencumbered, so he summoned his Sovereign Sword and soared into the sky.

    As the winds and clouds swirled around him, the vast divine ark of heaven and earth appeared before him, its oveid sun and moon casting a stronger radiance that illuminated thend below.

    The people of the Primordial Ruins either continued to endure their suffering or practiced the Ascension Technique, living as blissfully as Immortals.

    Every moment, the weight of his quest pressed upon Yun Xiao, a constant, unyielding force.

    "Even after ying the Mystic Earth Immortal and the 100,000 descendants, nothing has changed!" Yun Xiao muttered in frustration.

    As he dwelled in silence, an anomaly arose. Yun Xiao spun around suddenly and saw a tinum streak of light sh in the horizon¡ªa meteor, its brilliance zing as if a mighty sword had fallen from the heavens, piercing the void with a screaming descent.

    "Could the power this object carries be so immense?"

    What was it? Without further thought, Yun Xiao chased after it on his Sovereign Sword.

    Whizzing through the air, he pursued for two whole hours, indicating the meteor''s initial distance was vast.

    "Such amotion from afar signifies this is no ordinary object!"

    Fortunately, as time passed, it seemed to slow, quieting down to a mere tinum point of light floating above the fabric of numerous universes.

    "Does this light also contain the power of a Celestial Sourcecore?" Yun Xiao felt it immediately upon drawing near¡ªa force distinct from the sun and moon of the Primordial Ruins.

    He elerated once more, rushing toward the light. Finally, just as the point was about to extinguish, he caught up to it.

    "A coffin?" At first nce from afar, Yun Xiao was stunned.

    Upon closer inspection, he realized it was not a coffin but a gigantic tinum sword, about ten feet long!

    Yet, it was neither a treasure nor a weapon.

    "Is this a divine vessel shaped like a sword?"

    Divine vessels weremonly used by cultivators for long-distance travel across the heavens and earth.

    Yun Xiao was certain this was a divine vessel because inside the sword, a many resting. The man was shrouded in darkness, discernible only as male.

    Even through the barrier of the sword-shaped divine vessel, Yun Xiao could feel the exalted power of the Immortal Dao radiating from him.

    But this was not what shocked Yun Xiao the most.

    The core power of the sword-shaped divine vessel was a mini Celestial Sourcecore!

    It was tinum in color, about a foot in diameter, suspended above the man''s head like an infinitely massive golden fireball.

    Though only a foot across, Yun Xiao knew the power it contained could affect dozens of worlds.

    "A divine vessel powered by a Celestial Sourcecore? Who could have crafted this?"

    With curiosity, Yun Xiao searched the vessel for clues.

    Soon, he found several inscriptions.

    "Skyruler Sword Vessel?"

    This had to be the name of the sword-shaped divine vessel.

    Before Yun Xiao could react, Blue Star urgently said, "Hurry! This man is gravely injured, and the vessel is damaged. The formation of the Celestial Sourcecore within is fracturing, and it''s about to explode. Open the vessel and save him!"

    Looking closely, Yun Xiao saw the normally spherical Celestial Sourcecore violently trembling, its surface runes cracking, releasing terrifying power.

    "How do I open it?" Yun Xiao asked, frowning.

    "From the outside, only a sword strike might work! Try it!" Blue Star eximed.

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao cast onest nce at the man, whose face was hidden in the shadows, teeming with insects...

 Chapter 474: Arbiter Immortal!

    Chapter 474: Arbiter Immortal!

    "A Gu infestation?" Yun Xiao''s brow furrowed deeply. "The Three Immortals are Gu experts. Could this man have been harmed by them¡­?

    "With the Mystic Earth Immortal dead and the Sky Source Immortal trapped in the Immortal Asylum, that only leaves the Human Zenith Immortal..."

    Of course, this was only spection. Yun Xiao was unsure of who was stronger, the person within the sword-shaped divine vessel or the Human Zenith Immortal.

    Yun Xiao summoned the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and transformed it into a six-foot Sovereign Sword. When it came to raw power, the Sovereign Sword was unrivaled!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    He swiftly retreated, flipping the Sovereign Sword beneath his feet and surfing through the sky. With a focused gaze, he set his sights on the Skyruler Sword Vessel.

    "Charge!" His body surged with sacred power merging into the Sovereign Sword beneath him. With a press of his right foot, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul elerated, unleashing a tempest towards the Skyruler Sword Vessel with the force of the Primordial Triforce Sword Art, storming heavenward!

    The speed of the Sovereign Sword increased exponentially. Yun Xiao elerated as his ck hair and white robes fluttered wildly in the wind. His azure sword pierced the sky and left behind a trail of light, his figure almost smoking from the air friction!

    The tip of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul pointed straight at the center of the sword vessel!

    Then, in an instant, the Sovereign Sword collided with the Skyruler Sword Vessel.<em>BOOM! </em>A piercing, ear-shattering sound echoed through the heavens and earth.

    Yun Xiao and his Sovereign Sword were sent flying. His legs had gone numb from the impact! In contrast, the Skyruler Sword Vessel remained unmoved, bearing only traces of the collision.

    Yun Xiao noticed that his strike had shaken the vessel''s core, speeding up the release of its power, on the verge of a violent breakdown.

    "I can''t break through!" Yun Xiao said with urgency.

    "This vessel''s material is beyond ordinary, brute force won''t do," Blue Starmented, "Where''s your body double? Have it use its ws to pry open the door of this sword vessel."

    "It''s nearby."

    After leaving the Primordial Ruins, Moon Fairy hadn''t strayed far; Yun Xiao always needed hisbat power close at hand.

    As soon as his conversation with Blue Star concluded, a silver Six-Tailed Demon Fox descended from the clouds. The bloodstains on its body had vanished. Having consumed 100,000 lives, it continued to digest, looking even more vibrant and spirited!

    Moon Fairy''s strength grew along two distinct paths: the cultivation¡ªWill of Divine Destion and the regenerative devouring of the Nian. Both methods fortified his flesh, harmoniously intertwined without conflict.

    Leveraging the deste Gu, Moon Fairy had reached the Establishment Yin Immortal Realm. Hisbat prowess primarily stemmed from the Nian. Yet, with Yun Xiao''s plunder from the Primordial Ruins, his Divine Destion Physique had also seen rapid ascension within mere days.

    The four-eyed, Six-Tailed Demon Fox looked even more sinister and bewitching. The brutish cmity of the Nian and Moon Fairy''s cold charm merged perfectly, marking it as a peerless demon.

    Upon its arrival, it pounced on the Skyruler Sword Vessel, its sharp ws gripping the vessel''s circr door frame, beginning to forcefully tug.

    "An Immortal Sword Vessel? A fine piece, what a pity it must be destroyed," the Nianmented with its dull yellow eyes glowing faintly.

    "Do you recognize it?" Moon Fairy asked

    "In the true path of cultivation, such things are quite ordinary," the Nian said with disdain.

    Its former height meant the things it deemedmon might not necessarily be ordinary. Its memory was a chaotic mess, akin to a madman''s, making Yun Xiao selective in believing its words.

    "Is that your true form?" The Nian''s dull yellow eyes, swirling like the rivers of the underworld, shifted their gaze backward. With four eyes, two looking forward and two backward, it indeed appeared quite eerie.

    "Yes," Moon Fairy growled, his body tensed, unleashing all his power as his flesh burned with raging deste mes.

    "Why don''t we join forces, overthrow your true self, and turn the tables?" the Nian suggested with a coldugh.

    "Are you mad? Me killing myself?!" With a roar, Moon Fairy exerted himself to the utmost, pulling with all his might!

    Under his tremendous force, the circr door of the Skyruler Sword Vessel finally began to creak.

    With a loud crash, the door burst open, exploding apart.

    "Move! It''s going to explode!" Blue Star warned.

    In a sh, the Six-Tailed Demon Fox extended its tongue, wrapping it around the person inside the boat, then kicked back and retreated!

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao had already flown away on his Sovereign Sword.

    Their true form and body double veered left, while the Skyruler Sword Vessel went right.

    Behind them, the air thickened with an explosive aura.

    Suddenly, a devastating explosion rocked the heavens, sending a scorching wave of heat surging forward!

    In that instant, it felt like the end of the world.

    Yun Xiao, in the face of this lethal moment, believed he''d be torn to shreds by this power. So, in the blink of an eye, he made a choice¡ª

    "Divine Destion Physique,e forth!"

    Moon Fairy, in a swift motion, ejected the person from the sword vessel and then transformed into a silver mist, crashing into Yun Xiao''s back with a thunderous impact.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s body underwent a heaven-defying transformation at that moment, with silver smoke rising and his organs thundering explosively.

    "What is happening?" The Nian howled, its worldview utterly shattered.

    It watched, wide-eyed, as Yun Xiao and Moon Fairy merged into one, with the terrifying physical strength of both the Nian and the Divine Destion Physique now embodied in this young man!

    What sort of miracle was this?

    "Impossible! Impossible! Where have I gone?" The Nian was in shock.

    In this terrifying fusion of flesh, its remaining bloodline felt awkward, as if it had nowhere to go.

    Before it coulde to terms with this reality, the explosion of the Celestial Sourcecore was already enveloping them!

    Yun Xiao swiftly embraced the person from the sword vessel, then was sted hundreds of miles away. The robustness of the Divine Destion Physique held against this wave of destruction, minimizing their losses!

    Looking back, the entire sky was engulfed in the explosion''s light, with the heavens of at least a dozen worlds trembling, even triggering earthquakes.

    "This is merely the power of a miniature Celestial Sourcecore!" Yun Xiao was profoundly shaken. And to think, the Nian had deemed such a thingmon?

    Without the Divine Destion Physique, he couldn''t have withstood it. The Primordial Martial Dao was merely adjacent to the Primordial Void Technique, certainly not on par with the Will of Divine Destion.

    "You dead fox!!" The Nian roared, stewing in the darkness. Finally, under Yun Xiao''s gaze, it managed to open two dull yellow eyes swirling like the whirlpools of the underworld.

    Those eyes, full of shock, roamed over Yun Xiao''s body.

    "Where is my body?" The Nian asked in rm.

    "From the moment you devoured my body double, your body ceased to exist in this world," Yun Xiao said with a cold smile. "Now, it''s merely a part of mine."

    "Ah! Impossible!" The Nian was in turmoil, its essence overtaken by Moon Fairy, leaving it in a state of copse. It had harbored hopes of reiming its freedom and resurgence one day, but now it found itself swallowed by its own original form.

    What had it be now?

    It couldn''t even im the status of a body double.

    "Stop your howling," Yun Xiao said, tired of itsmentations.

    Now, with Moon Fairy''s essence imbued with such dense demonic energy, Yun Xiao summoned the Divine Destion Physique. Merged, he retained his human essence but was enveloped in a surge of demonic energy.

    Such a form was hard to exin to others.

    Testing the waters, he discovered that the Nian''s bloodline couldn''t take control or influence the Divine Destion Physique. So, there was no issue!

    In short, apart from wailing, the Nian was powerless to interfere.

    With a hum, Yun Xiao dispatched this body double.

    The silver mist transformed into a four-eyed, silver-haired youth, floating in the air, his aura bing even more demonic.

    "This appearance of my body double is androgynous at best, unlike the true femininity of the Mirage Immortal, who possesses something extra..."

    Crucially, above the navel, the Mirage Immortal was genuinely feminine, and of a splendid figure at that.

    With a sigh, the Nian rxed only when Yun Xiao''s original form and the body double separated.

    "There''s no need to pretend any nobility or grandeur before me. You''ll soon realize that serving me is a fortune you couldn''t have dreamt of before your imprisonment," Yun Xiao said, facing Moon Fairy''s dull yellow eyes.

    The Nian could only muster augh but dared not retort. This fusion, seemingly straightforward, defied all norms¡ªan undertaking not just anyone could achieve.

    After dealing with him for so long, the Nian truly understood the terror that was this young man.

    "It was that fox who took my body, and now, I am nothing!"

    It seemed as if it had no stake in anything anymore, overwhelmed by a profound sense of injustice.

    In a moment that seemed suspended between cmity and calm, Yun Xiao asked the Nian about the identity of the unconscious individual from the sword vessel.

    The Nian, with a huff, closed its dull yellow eyes, feigning death right then and there. Yun Xiao paid it no further mind.

    Upon closer inspection, the person from the sword vessel wore white-gold chainmail of a deceptively simple design. Each scale was etched with runes that danced across the surface.

    "A token at the waist?" Yun Xiao examined the token, finding it engraved on one side with the characters, <em>Thunder Department</em>,posed of thunder dragon motifs, and on the other, <em>Skyruler Immortal Manor</em>, crafted from sword strokes.

    "Thunder Department, Skyruler Immortal Manor? What ce is this?" Yun Xiao was unfamiliar with the terms, but he suspected that Dean Yu, Shen Cang, and others might have some insight.

    Further examination revealed the person''s dire state, with aplexion as dark as pitch ck and recently vomited ck blood containing dozens of visible parasites. These worms, devoid of eyes or tentacles, bore gaping maws at both ends, filled with countlessyers of teeth.

    "This Gu worm is a visible menace..."

    Without removing these parasites, Yun Xiao doubted the person could even awaken.

    "Let''s head back for now."

    The explosion of the Celestial Sourcecore had already alerted the human cultivators of the Nine Hells. Upon his return, Yun Xiao was met by Dean Yu and Shen Cang awaiting him above the clouds.

    Naturally, Lian Xi was there too, setting aside her apprehensions to face Yun Xiao, especially given the turn of events. Had she not fled midway, Yun Xiao would have been too preupied to save the person from the sword vessel.

    "Dean Yu, Shen Cang, please examine this individual," Yun Xiao requested,ying the bloodied figure from the sword vessel onto Dean Yu''s lotus tform.

    The man appeared in his twenties, tall and lean, seemingly younger than Dean Yu, though his true age was difficult to ascertain.

    Dean Yu and Shen Cang hurriedly inspected him, their expressions shifting with concern.

    "Yun Xiao, what caused that explosion?" Shen Cang inquired.

    "A flying vessel known as the Skyruler Sword Vessel, containing a miniature Celestial Sourcecore. I rescued him before the vessel exploded," Yun Xiao exined.

    Shen Cang, visibly shaken, confirmed, "Thunder Department, Skyruler Immortal Manor!"

    "Indeed," Yun Xiao revealed, showing the waist token. With Shen Cang recognizing the individual''s origins, he surely knew more.

    "An Arbiter Immortal of the Skyruler Immortal Manor!" Shen Cang said, a mix of shock and excitement in his voice.

    "Arbiter Immortal?" Yun Xiao murmured, "Elder, please share the details of his identity. And, is he friend or foe?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 475: Betrayal of the Mirage Immortal

    Chapter 475: Betrayal of the Mirage Immortal

    Yun Xiao acted with the resolve to save a life, wagering on the slim chance of gaining a friend in the process. "If he''s an enemy, there''s still time to deal with him," he pondered.

    "Likely a friend, I suppose?" Shen Cang suggested, after some thought.

    "Why only <em>likely</em>?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "After breaking through the Establishment Yang Immortal Realm, one may ascend the heavens and enter the Great Dao Celestial Realm and be a True Immortal of the Celestial Court," Shen Cang said, gazing into the heavens.

    "I see¡­" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "The Thunder Department is part of the Great Dao Celestial Court, with its Judiciary Office being one of thew enforcement bodies. The Arbiter Immortals represent the supreme authority andws of the Celestial Court, responsible for criminal investigation andw enforcement. However, they usually don''t descend to the mortal realm," Shen Cang exined, shaking his head, "Honestly, I''ve never seen an Arbiter Immortal or Immortal Sword Vessel. These are secrets kept in the sacred texts of our Martial Emperor n, known only to the n head."

    "So, he''s a True Immortal?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "If he''s descended from the Celestial Court, he must be," Shen Cang confirmed.

    "And Li Hongpao, doesn''t she alsoe from the Great Dao Celestial Realm?" Yun Xiao asked."She''s different; she''s more like an observer stationed in the mortal realm by the Celestial Court, with no significant background, considered the lowest rank within the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Shen Cang stated.

    "Yun Xiao, why would a True Immortal settle for a mundane life on earth? Those whomit evil in the mortal realm are but degenerates of the Immortal path. And perhaps because of their lofty stature, the Celestial Court often relies on these degenerates to understand the human world," Dean Yu said, shaking her head.

    "I understand," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Perhaps this was why, even though this individual was clearly aw-enforcing Arbiter Immortal from the Thunder Department, Shen Cang couldn''t be entirely sure he was a friend.

    "Master, if he awakens and we present him with the crimes of the Three Immortals, will he return to the Celestial Court, report to the heavens, and punish them?" Lian Xi quietly asked.

    "I don''t know," Dean Yu answered, looking sternly at Yun Xiao, "But I know that killing an Arbiter Immortal is a crime of the highest order set by the heavens. Even if it''s saving first and killing afterward, it''s still a crime."

    "You''re overthinking, Dean Yu," Yun Xiao said with a shake of his head and a smile, "The world, after all, has more good people. I choose to believe he is a good Immortal."

    "Yun Xiao..." Lian Xi looked at him, her voice soft, "You''re not just willing to believe he''s good; you''re taking a gamble."

    "On what?" Dean Yu asked.

    "He''s not afraid of the Three Immortals, the dream sea mirage, but the Great Celestial Sourcecore is singr across the myriad worlds. With the sun and moon permanently fused, disaster will spread. In such times, perhaps only this Arbiter Immortal can represent the Celestial Court, bringing a new Celestial Sourcecore," Lian Xi spoke softly.

    "You know me well," Yun Xiao said lightly. With his nature, he wouldn''t gamble on the morality of a powerful being unless there was no other hope.

    "So it is," the crowd realized.

    "The problem remains, who harmed him? He looks like he was poisoned with Gu. Who can save him?" Yun Dahe wondered.

    "Could the Human Zenith Immortal have injured him?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    "To speak the truth, even with ten thousand doses of courage, he wouldn''t dare touch a Arbiter Immortal," Shen Cang said with a cold voice.

    "Unless he had someone backing him," Dean Yu added.

    "I understand," Yun Xiao murmured, ncing down at the Arbiter Immortal before him. Suddenly, he said, "Let me try; maybe I can save him."

    "Good! Save him!" Shen Cang and the others were indeed eager to save the Arbiter Immortal. Their only fear was that Yun Xiao, upon learning of the Immortal''s identity, might hesitate to take the risk.

    Surrounded by them, Yun Xiao squatted down, the Prison Warden Sigil appearing in his hand.

    "This Life Sigil, seemingly sinister, is actually a force of sacred purification. It might truly be able to counteract these corrupting parasites," Dean Yu said, somewhat incredulously.

    Yun Xiao didn''t respond; instead, he transformed the Life Sigil into a nine-headed dragon.

    With ferocious roars, the nine-headed dragon forced open the mouth of the Arbiter Immortal, squeezing into his throat and burrowing into his body.

    The Arbiter Immortal shivered, his eyebrows furrowed in pain, beginning to convulse.

    A terrifying power erupted from his body, sending many flying.

    Yun Xiao was held in ce by Shen Cang, preventing him from being thrown.

    Dark smoke started billowing from the Arbiter Immortal''s body, and underneath his skin, it seemed as if countless parasites were scurrying, bulging the skin. From within, anguished roars could be heard.

    "How audacious!" The Arbiter Immortal let out a furious roar, vomiting a considerable amount of ck blood, which pooled on the lotus tform.

    Yet, he didn''t fully awaken, his eyebrows deeply furrowed, veins bulging as he screamed in agony.

    "How is it?" Dean Yu asked Yun Xiao, visibly anxious.

    "It''s working. That''s why the Gu parasites are in panic, trying to perish with him. But for now, I''ve managed to keep the situation under control," Yun Xiao said, frowning coldly as he continued to wield the Prison Warden Sigil.

    "Can he recover?" Shen Cang asked.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "There''s only a sixty percent chance. There are too many parasites inside him. We can only slowly burn them away withoutpletely destroying him. The process must not go awry, or he''s finished," Yun Xiao stated gravely.

    "Understood," Shen Cang nodded, then instructed everyone, "Return to the city, ensure Yun Xiao''s safety at all costs, and let no one reveal anything about the Arbiter Immortal!"

    "Okay." Dean Yu controlled the lotus tform, protecting Yun Xiao and the Arbiter Immortal as they descended into the Nine Hells, tightly sealing it off.

    "Master, do you think the Arbiter Immortal will recover in three days, the time we''ve agreed with the Dreamsea Abalones?" Lian Xi asked.

    "It''s up to him," Dean Yu sighed softly. After a moment, she turned to Lian Xi, "Weren''t you out with him today? Howe you returned separately?"

    "It''s nothing!" Lian Xi turned away, fearing her thoughts would be read.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Nine Hells, within the Immortal Asylum, a realm of dreams had unfolded. Lights dazzled, treasures sparkled, exotic delicacies were abundant, melodies of jade flutes filled the air, andughter echoed endlessly.

    Dreams flowed like snow-white streams around the Immortal Asylum!

    Despite being onnd, it resembled the shimmering seabed of a sand ocean.

    Deep within this dreamy seascapey about 3,000 shells, glowing with a snow-white luminescence, embedded upright in the sand. They shimmered like pearls, gently opening and closing, revealing the snow-white, crystal-clear flesh within.

    Each radiant shell seemed to contain a world so enchanting that one could lose themselves forever.

    Above these 3,000 snow-white shells hovered a golden shell, ten timesrger than the others. Ity wide open, its interior sparkling with a golden glow, like an emperor seated within.

    From this golden glow, three thousand tendril-like golden bodies extended, spreading out like long hair, reaching into the three thousand snow-white shells, deeply intertwining with the mollusks within.

    As the glow pulsated, over three thousand dreamlike chants resonated in unison, transporting one to a celestial realm. These were no longer mere shell demons but concubines receiving divine favor.

    During this process, their union generated a powerful hallucinatory storm that swept into the Immortal Asylum!

    Such a sorcery, born of their very nature, wielded unimaginable destructive power!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Riots erupted within the Immortal Asylum, and the ground shook violently, to the point one might think the Nian still roamed there.

    Faintly visible was a golden-armored giant, towering over ten feet tall, furiously mming into the walls of the Immortal Asylum, puncturing the cold walls with thousands of golden holes!

    If Moon Fairy were here, he would notice the Sky Source Immortal had changed. He was like a golden titan of flesh and steel, roaring and bellowing, a behemoth towering twice the height of an ordinary man, even taller than a Yang Devil!

    The more he raged, the stronger the 3,000 dreamlike chants became, their numbing sounds infiltrating every crevice, plunging the entire Immortal Asylum into a euphoric realm.

    It was clear, under the merciless onught of the Dreamsea Abalones, the Sky Source Immortal''s vital essence was fading.

    Such a method to drain an old man of his life was indeed cruel!

    In the midst of the Mirage Immortal''s bewildering enchantment, a series of coldughs could be heard.

    Suddenly, the Sky Source Immortal ceased his furious assault on the walls and let out a coldugh himself.

    "You think you can overthrow us with this and enve the humans of the myriad worlds?" he spoke with a chilling voice.

    The Dreamsea Abalones did not respond, instead intensifying its illusionary desires.

    The Sky Source Immortal''sugh grew more scornful, "My brothers and I have been ndestinely feeding on the human race in these starry mundane worlds, evading the eyes of Arbiter Immortals for centuries. Did you really think we were without protection?"

    "What do you mean?" the Mirage Immortal said with a chilly voice.

    "Guess where my youngest brother is right now?" The Sky Source Immortalughed wildly.

    Upon hearing this, the enchanting music outside the Immortal Asylum abruptly ceased. The golden shell retracted its 3,000 tendrils, assuming a human-like form, staring intensely into the Immortal Asylum.

    "You''re able to ascend to the Great Dao Celestial Realm?" the Mirage Immortal said in terror.

    "Why not? We are descended from the Celestial Court!" the Sky Source Immortal stated coldly.

    The Mirage Immortal trembled, copsing in fear.

    Seeing this, the Sky Source Immortal sneered, "Initially, as long as you stayed in the Oblivion Demon Sea, not troubling humanity, we wouldn''t have bothered with you. But you had to covet the Immortal Asylum! This is a treasure coveted by the high and mighty above; I only dare to guard it. And you think your aged selves are worthy?"

    "What? You''ve reported the matter of the Immortal Asylum to the Celestial Court¡­" the Mirage Immortal said despairingly.

    "What else? In this world, one must know what''s within reach and what''s not," the Sky Source Immortal scoffed.

    "Sky Source Immortal!" the Mirage Immortal cried out. "I beg you, spare my kind a path to life. My n is willing to follow you in life and death!"

    "Oh? You kneel quite readily, don''t you?" the Sky Source Immortal mocked.

    "Please show mercy! Mercy!" the Mirage Immortal wept.

    "Survival isn''t difficult; I have two conditions," the Sky Source Immortal said.

    "Pleasemand!" The Mirage Immortal trembled.

    "First, you''ve allied with Yun Xiao, right? Trick him intoing here in three days, and we''ll join forces to eliminate them," the Sky Source Immortal said grimly.

    "No problem!" The Mirage Immortal''s eyes widened, "We must annihte him!"

    "Second!" The Sky Source Immortal nced at the holes in the Immortal Asylum''s walls, sneering, "At my age, you torment me in such ways? Fine! Have your n transform into human form ande to me; I''ll make sure you ms regret it."

    The Mirage Immortal was stunned. Below, the 3,000 shells trembled violently.

    "Go on, quickly!" the Mirage Immortal urged.

    The 3,000 shells, weeping, transformed into human forms and lined up to enter, leaving the Mirage Immortal outside, despondently somber.

    Unexpectedly, the Sky Source Immortal remained furiously indignant, "Why is one missing?"

    The Mirage Immortal, startled, responded, "The whole tribe is here, none are missing."

    The Sky Source Immortal looked outside, sneering, "The one missing is you!"

    "..." The Mirage Immortal fell speechless.

 Chapter 476: The Secret of the Blood Devil Ruins!

    Chapter 476: The Secret of the Blood Devil Ruins!

    "What''s going on? Why did the Blood Devil Ruins dry up?"

    "No idea!"

    As time passed, the cultivators from the surrounding worlds took notice, their senses no longer assaulted by the stench of iron and death.

    The Blood Devil Ruins had been tumultuous ofte, with the blood demons prowling, making it a ce even the bravest souls dared not tread.

    "Heavens, it''s truly gone!"

    "The endless tide of devil blood that rampaged for centuries¡­ vanished in mere days."

    "Could it be a mercy from the heavens, a respite for the suffering?"

    Joy erupted among the tormented cultivators andmon folk alike, their faces breaking into smiles wide and genuine, celebrating the end of their century-long nightmare.

    Themon folk, unaware of the upheaval in the Primordial Ruins, or the impending spread of the Heavenly Decay across the myriad worlds, found sce in the disappearance of the Blood Devil Ruins.Only the likes of the Sword Warden and other top cultivators understood the grave implications¡ªthe Mystic Earth Immortal had perished, the Blood Devil Ruins were in chaos, and the true apocalypse was nigh.

    Under such a foreboding shadow, many sought the lost treasures of the True Devils, bravely venturing toward the direction of the now quiet Blood Devil Ruins.

    "What was once thick, foul, ck blood had boiled like magma, and now, vanished without a trace!"

    "It must have evaporated!"

    They trod carefully through the mist-enveloped, brokenndscape, marveling at the miraculous transformation before them.

    At the heart of this charred wilderness, a boiling sea of blood still raged¡ªa ce no cultivator dared approach.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Here, the blood roared and the mist rose, with heatwaves engulfing the air.

    In thatst scorching pool, a figure of unparalleled beauty bathed. Her hair fell to her waist, crowned with blood-red dragon horns. Her body, a perfect blend of elegance and seduction, was adorned with red lips and a cool gaze. Enveloped in a mist of devil blood, she exuded nobility and allure, her skin glistening with sweat, her clothes burnt to ashes by the blood''s heat, revealing a physique that epitomized the pinnacle of her race''s natural grace.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Thest of the blood waves continued to surge into her body, mingling with her bloodline to form the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, coloring her skin a tender shade of red, a sight both heart-stopping and soul-snatching.

    At this moment, the War Princess had be the most perfect incarnation of a Yin Devil in the myriad worlds. Her allure made it no surprise that mankind often linked Yin Devils with seduction.

    Yin Devils were also known as subi. And she had be a subus who had devoured the entirety of the devil blood from the Blood Devil Ruins!

    The Mortal Dust Blood Cmity transformed her aura and beauty into the ultimate embodiment of desire within the Mortal Dust.

    "So hot¡­" she murmured as the blood mist rose, slowly opening her eyes.

    "It''s almost over."

    Her eyes, foggy as if she''d just awakened, held a trace ofziness. Stretching her arms in anguid yawn, she curved her alluring form into intoxicating silhouettes.

    Indeed, she had been in deep slumber!

    Upon waking, she delightfully discovered herself to be at the Establishment Yang Devil Realm!

    What did that imply? It meant she hadpleted the Eight Dao Heart Realms, just one step away from reaching new heights on the Immortal Path, to be revered as a True Immortal among the heavens.

    "Lying down and finding myself at the pinnacle of the world, quite delightful," the War Princess couldn''t help feeling thrilled.

    She knew well that without that certain someone, she wouldn''t have seen her eighteenth birthday.

    Now, the power and grandeur of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood within her were overwhelming, an invincibility that felt like an unreal dream.

    "I am so powerful!" The War Princess looked down, clenched her fist, feeling the overwhelming force of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood coursing through her.

    Suddenly, she noticed two ring lights. With a shriek, she curled up,menting, "Where are my clothes?"

    "Burnt during cultivation," a calm voice replied from within her heart.

    "You! Why didn''t you say so earlier? You''ve been peeping, you pervert, you¡­" She flushed with embarrassment and anger, covering the light of hernterns, tears of fury streaming down.

    "What''s wrong with you? I''m in your heart, I can only see your blood vessels and arteries," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Oh! Oh¡­" The War Princess paused, then sighed in relief. She pouted and proceeded to dress herself neatly in her skirts and armored leather.

    "However, if I wanted to look, would I need your permission?" Yun Xiao suddenly remarked.

    The War Princess bit her lip and cursed, "I can''t be bothered with you. You''re the epitome of evil, appearing gentle but rotten to the core."

    "If I were truly wicked, you wouldn''t dare act so coquettishly with me," Yun Xiao said with a soft chuckle.

    "Who''s acting coquettishly? Not me." The War Princess spent a moment dressing, adorning herself with shining silver earrings and donning ck and red chainmail that showcased her curvaceous legs and cinched her waist, presenting an undeniable allure and temptation.

    The breastte, conspicuously bulging and leaving much of the area below exposed, made one doubt its utility. Unlike other armor that offeredprehensive protection, hers covered only the upper half, leaving the lower exposed to the wind.

    "Everything about you is soft, except your stubbornness," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Ptuh."

    Knowing his words rang true, the War Princess had no choice but to keep up her facade.

    "Are you well-rested?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked, his tone turning serious.

    "...Yes, what is it?"

    Sensitive to his change in tone, the War Princess knew not to take lightly matters he deemed serious.

    "Follow the direction I point." Yun Xiao concentrated a wisp of devil blood, forming an arrow on her palm.

    "Aren''t you going to absorb the remaining devil blood?" she asked.

    In the depths of the Blood Devil Ruinsy thest pool of devil blood.

    "No need, you''ve reached your limit. Without growth in your Dao Heart, not even a second Blood Devil Ruins could make you a True Immortal," Yun Xiao paused, then continued, "Besides, something lies beneath these ruins. The remaining devil blood can serve as a cover."

    "Something?" her eyes sparkled with intrigue.

    "Yes. When the Human Zenith Immortal shattered the earth with his Sword Soul, causing a volcanic eruption, I sensed some peculiar power," Yun Xiao exined earnestly.

    "Could it be rted to my ancestors?" she asked, biting her lip.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao confirmed.

    With a resolute gaze, the War Princess said no more, instead following Yun Xiao''s direction downward.

    Soon, beneath her iron boots, rollingva emerged, mixing with the blood water to form a scarlet wave.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The earth here was thick!

    The presence ofva indicated a breach in the earth''s crust.

    "Go in," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "I won''t be incinerated, will I?" the War Princess worried.

    "Your cultivation is nowparable to the Martial Emperor. Don''t act like a coward. Think bigger," Yun Xiao sternly advised.

    "Got it! Annoying."

    Indeed, the War Princess was somewhat disoriented by her rapidly advancing cultivation. Protected by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, she plunged into the boiling magma and found herself unscathed.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 477: Youre Asking For It Now!

    Chapter 477: You''re Asking For It Now!

    In the heart of the world beneath, the War Princess marveled at the vastness of the magma sea that sprawled endlessly before her, a sight both terrifying and awe-inspiring. As she plunged deeper, the heat grew unbearably hot. If she weren''t a Yang Immortal, there was no way she could have ventured here.

    "This must be thergest underground volcano across the myriad worlds," Yun Xiao observed, his voice a guide in the darkness.

    "Then, I''ll dive to its deepest core," the War Princess dered. She drew a deep breath, her resolve steeling her for the descent.

    She longed to gauge the extent of her newfound might, a power so formidable it felt exhrating. Like a crimson dragon, she cleaved through the molten rivers, parting the fiery waves in her descent, a spectacle of sheer force and beauty.

    After a quarter of an hour, she found herself amidst a heat so intense it threatened to consume all.

    "How can such scorching depths exist in the mortal realm? What lies below?" she wondered aloud, her gaze piercing the depths.

    "All traces have been incinerated... no wonder there''s nothing left," Yun Xiao mused, a hint of disappointment in his voice.

    "What traces?" she inquired, her curiosity piqued.

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao shared, "The remnants of the Devil Ark. Had it been as vast as the Primordial Ruins, there would have been mountains,nds, structures, and legacies of countless generations. But beneath the Blood Devil Ruins lies nothing butva... a testament to their obliteration."Wiped clean, the existence of the True Devils had been erased from the world as if they had never been.

    "What could possibly obliterate the Devil Ark so thoroughly?" she asked, peering into the abyss.

    "If I''m right, it was probably the Celestial Sourcecore," Yun Xiao exined, offering insight into the phenomenon before suggesting, "Look further down."

    Acknowledging with a nod, the War Princess dove like a majestic dragon, the light growing increasingly brilliant in her path, as though she wasn''t descending into the earth but soaring towards the stars.

    "Is that it?" The War Princess gasped, struggling to endure the scorching hot temperature. She pointed ahead where a radiant orb hung in the void, its fierce glow emitting waves of heat. This sphere, enveloped in dense torrents of Immortal energy, contained the pure essence of heaven and earth.

    "Yes, that''s it! The only remnant of the Devil Ark..." Yun Xiao answered.

    In that moment, as the two beheld the orb, he found a moment of reprieve. Atst, the greatest crisis of the myriad world had found its resolution.

    "If we could rece the one in the Primordial Ruins with this one, the decline of the myriad worlds might be reversed!" the War Princess eximed, her voiceced with joy.

    "This could be deemed the final contribution of your ancestors to the myriad worlds," Yun Xiao remarked in a light tone.

    "Your wordsck any semnce of conscience!" she retorted, her ire rising.

    Yun Xiao allowed himself a brief chuckle before suggesting they depart.

    "Aren''t we going to try and take it with us?" she asked.

    "You''d be lucky getting close to it without being burnt to a crisp. Besides, with the issue of the Three Immortals still unresolved, taking it with us serves no purpose other than toplicate things," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Still, at least we''ve solved the toughest problem," the War Princess mused. Her gaze lingered on the Celestial Sourcecore, as she continued in a wistful tone, "Without you, no one would have discovered it, and the people of the myriad worlds would remain subjugated unto death by the Three Immortals... You, despite your ws, are the savior of themon folk."

    "Enough with the praise. Both you and I know that title doesn''t suit me," Yun Xiao said.

    "Tsk, still trying to act all cool. How childish," the War Princess scoffed, rolling her eyes.

    "Less talk now. The three-day mark is near; group back up with me quickly," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Is it time to besiege the Sky Source Immortal with the Dreamsea Abalones?" she asked.

    "Indeed."

    "And your true self? What level of cultivation have you reached?" she continued.

    "These three days have been spent exterminating the parasites and rescuing the Arbiter Immortal. I''m still at the Early Five Decays Realm, with the second decay still taking its sweet time. This time, it falls to you," Yun Xiao admitted, a note of frustration in his voice.

    He had hoped to bnce rescuing the Arbiter Immortal with breaking through, but the Five Decays seemed to harbor its own will.

    Matters like these simply couldn''t be rushed. Three days without a breakthrough left Yun Xiao feeling as if centuries had passed.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Even you''re stalled at the Five Decays Realm?" the War Princess teased, sticking out her extraordinarily long tongue. Humming softly, she departed, her exit swifter than her arrival.

    "Previously, you mentioned saving the Arbiter Immortal was to deal with the issue of finding a recement Celestial Sourcecore. Now that that''s resolved, are you going to continue?" she asked.

    "I''ve stopped for now," Yun Xiao replied.

    "So pragmatic?" sheughed, caught between amusement and dismay.

    "For now, I hold the initiative. Until the Three Immortals are dealt with, introducing new variables is unnecessary," Yun Xiao stated.

    "You make sense. Quite rational," the War Princess acknowledged.

    "It''s merely caution born of witnessing theplexity of the world, a skepticism towards strangers," Yun Xiao replied, his tone even and untroubled.

    "And how is he doing now?" she pressed further.

    "Four-fifths of the infestation is cleared. Another half day, and he should recover. For now, let''s dy further action. I''ve already saved him from the brink of death; my conscience is clear," Yun Xiao dered, choosing to prioritize the world over an individual''s final plight.

    As the War Princess made her exit from underground, she burst through thest of the blood pools, emerging above the Blood Devil Ruins.

    "Who''s that?"

    "A devil! A True Devil!"

    Many cultivators of the myriad worlds fled in terror.

    With onest nce at the Blood Devil Ruins, she prepared to leave.

    "Oi, deep down, do you <em>really</em> care about the True Devils of the Devil Ark?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not in the slightest," she replied.

    "Good, then save the sentimental stuff forter and get your ass the Nine Hells! Or do you miss getting punished by me so much?" Yun Xiao chided.

    "Understood, you brute!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Nine Hells, within a deep courtyard in a remote city,y the Arbiter Immortal in tinum armor upon a lotus tform, hisplexion much improved but still ensnared in deep slumber.

    "Why did you stop? He could help us against the Sky Source Immortal," Dean Yu asked as Yun Xiao abruptly rose, her confusion clear.

    "And can you guarantee he''ll help us when he wakes up?" Yun Xiao questioned, meeting her gaze.

    Dean Yu pressed her lips together, her eyes flickering briefly before she sighed. "No¡­ I can''t."

    "And if you don''t have the same trump card that you did with the Mystic Earth Immortal, even with the help of the Dreamsea Abalones, ying the Sky Source Immortal remains a fantasy," Shen Cang interjected solemnly.

    Everyone had expected Yun Xiao''s cultivation to soar by leaps and bounds in these three days. Yet, he was still stuck in the Early Five Decays Realm.

    The only constion was that Lian Xi had made astonishing progress in integrating with the Primordial Pagoda. Armed with the Martial Emperor''s Armor, herbat power was nearing that of Dean Yu. In cultivation alone, she far surpassed Yun Xiao.

    "I''m going to step out for a bit," Yun Xiao announced suddenly, setting a new course amidst their nning.

    "Would you take a gamble on the Arbiter Immortal?" Dean Yu asked.

    "If the decision were still mine to make, I would not," Yun Xiao responded calmly.

    Dean Yu looked at him, then in the direction of Lian Xi. She didn''t say much, but her eyes held a worry, perhaps sensing the uncontroble and tyrannical nature in Yun Xiao that the little white tiger did.

    "Dean Yu, trust in Yun Xiao," Shen Cang spoke up.

    "Indeed," Dean Yu inhaled softly, nodding towards Yun Xiao in acknowledgment.

    "Thank you both," Yun Xiao expressed, aware of their confusion over his sudden halt in the rescue of the Arbiter Immortal. Such a failure would carry dire consequences, and their caution was understandable.

    He then advised, "When I return, my aura might have changed. I hope you all can ept that."

    "A change in aura?" Dean Yu shook her head, "Regardless of the changes you undergo, if it''s for the sake of humanity, we must respect them."

    "Very well!" After these words, Yun Xiao nced sideways. Lian Xi, her skin as pale as snow, emerged from the shadows, leaning against a column and gazing at him with a dazed look in her eyes.

    He greeted her with a nod and a slight smile before disappearing.

    Once he was gone, Dean Yu called over to Lian Xi, whispering, "Can you tell me why he suddenly stopped the rescue?"

    "I don''t know," Lian Xi took her slender jade hand, asserting confidently, "But Master, he must have his reasons for doing so. Perhaps he has difficulties he cannot disclose. We should just support him."

    "Pfft, keeping silent just to seem more impressive," the little white tiger in Lian Xi''s arms scoffed.

    Dean Yu and Shen Cang could only nod in agreement, their eyes still filled with deep concern as they gazed upon the Arbiter Immortal.

    At that moment, the sky outside shifted with changing lights.

    "The Mirage Immortal has arrived."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After leaving the courtyard, Yun Xiao mounted his Sovereign Sword, ascending into the clouds. Along the way, a youth with silver hair and a mysterious air collided with him, merging into his being.

    Moon Fairy had arrived. Following the fusion, his true form burgeoned with vitality, and a demonic aura thrived within him.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s speed surged, propelling him towards the heavens. Between the clouds, a blood-hued silhouette flickered in and out of visibility.

    Suddenly appearing before her, Yun Xiao gave the War Princess quite the scare.

    Seeing Yun Xiao again, the War Princess''s eyes trembled slightly, taking a moment before she managed a retort with a click of her tongue, "Each time you merge with your body double, youe out looking all the more demonic. Hmph, I prefer the charm of your true self more."

    Yun Xiao took a moment to observe her, thenmented, "Your breastte''s too small. Guess we need to change it out for arger size."

    "It''s crafted by your humans; none fit me properly!" the War Princess eximed, arms crossed over her chest.

    "Do you take pride in that?" Yun Xiao asked, eyeing her.

    "Not at all," she bit her lip, annoyance flickering across her face. "I''ve seen that girl. So, you fancy the youthful type, no wonder your tastes are so twisted."

    "Twisted? That''s riching from you," Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh. "And who said I fancy the youthful type?"

    "So, what do you fancy then?"

    "I fancy the full spectrum, theplete set, every category there is," Yun Xiao dered.

    "..." The War Princess stared at him, feeling a touch dizzy from his promation.

    "To articte shamelessness with such righteousness, that''s a first for me," she remarked.

    "What do you know? I call it being open-minded," Yun Xiao retorted, casually wrapping an arm around her waist. "Enough dallying. Let''s find a ce to <em>bury</em> you first, and then I''ll grant you rebirth."

    "Ha!" the War Princess scoffed, clearly displeased at the prospect of <em>dying</em> again.

    Facing the divine-faced youth barely reaching her chest, she couldn''t help but blurt out, "Shorty!"

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao frowned, giving her a look that said, "You''re really asking for it now!"

    At those words, the War Princess felt her legs go numb, panic setting in...

 Chapter 478: Walking Into Hells Gates!

    Chapter 478: Walking Into Hell''s Gates!

    Back in the courtyard, a graceful and mesmerizing beauty stood before a gathering of human stalwarts.

    The figure''s elegance was unmarred by the cold detachment on their face, and their stature loomed just a touch above those around her as they spoke, "What happened? Did Yun Xiao get cold feet and run away?"

    "Of course not! Please, Mirage Immortal, just wait a moment longer," Dean Yu assured, refusing to entertain the notion.

    "Fearing the Sky Source Immortal is no shame," the Mirage Immortal offered with a cold smile, shaking his head. "But, to boast beyond one''s means and then falter... it''s a needless hassle you''ve put us through these past three days.

    "Our magic has weakened the Sky Source Immortal significantly over three days, but it has cost us too. Further dys only give him strength to possibly escape," the Mirage Immortal dered, his voice thick with dissatisfaction.

    Dean Yu might have spoken further in Yun Xiao''s defense, but just then, a flicker of light danced across the sky. It was the glow of the Sovereign Sword.

    "He''s back," Lian Xi whispered, her eyes alight with relief.

    As her words settled, a youth in white descended from the heavens, his garments fluttering as he touched down in the courtyard.

    Seeing Yun Xiao, the Mirage Immortal''s tone softened, "You''ve finally arrived, Young Master Yun. I''ve been waiting for you.""Apologies, I was a little busy with something," Yun Xiao responded, his eyes glowing red. His form was shrouded in a bloody mist, while his body radiated with demonic miasma and the cmitous aura of the Nian.

    A murmur of surprise rippled through the assembly as they noted the change in Yun Xiao.

    "Human form, demon aura, and devil blood?" Dean Yu''s brows knitted together.

    The very air seemed to thicken with hostility at the presence of these markers, an instinctive repulsion from these human stalwarts who stood as sworn enemies to demons and devils.

    However, their apprehension eased after recalling Yun Xiao''s words from a while ago, leaving only a web of confusion.

    "Are you a demon or devil?" the Mirage Immortal asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.

    "I am human," Yun Xiao replied with a smile. "I''ve merely been stained by the demons and devils I''ve in. Does that trouble you?"

    "To see a human y so many to the point of altering their own essence... it''s unheard of." The Mirage Immortalughed.

    "Weren''t you in a hurry just now? Yun Xiao shifted the conversation topic. "Why don''t we set off immediately, to y the trapped Sky Source Immortal?"

    "Exactly my thoughts!" the Mirage Immortal responded, his gaze sweeping over Dean Yu and the other formidable figures, his demeanor turning stern. "Please, everyone."

    The Primordial Academy and the Oblivion Demon Sea had always been archenemies, yet even in alliance, Dean Yu and herrades could not truly warm to their counterparts.

    About 200 Yin-Yang Immortals stood ready, their spirits tempered for the daunting task of confronting the Sky Source Immortal. The air was heavy with the gravity of their undertaking. They all knew Yun Xiao''s previous victory over the Mystic Earth Immortal was an anomaly; whether such sess could be replicated remained a question.

    "The Oblivion Demon Sea boasts 3,000 Ying-Yang Immortals, more than the entirety of the Primordial Ruins, relying primarily on their numbers¡­"

    "The reason they''ve sought us out is twofold. Their singr nature makes them powerful in illusion but weak in directbat power. Secondly, the majority are Yin Immortals, with top-tier Yang Immortals like Dean Yu and the Martial Emperor rare among them."

    "Most crucially, Yun Xiao represents an unpredictable factor."

    The human champions were well aware of the details of this alliance. Though fewer in number, their role was to spearhead the assault, amplifying the illusionary advantage of the Dreamsea Abalones.

    With a mutual nce, they felt a fierce resolve, ready to march. This determination also spoke of their trust in Yun Xiao.

    After all, they stopped trying to get the help of the Arbiter Immortal!

    "Lian Xi, you stay behind," Dean Yu suddenly said, turning to the girl in white by her side.

    "Why? Master, I''m a Yang Immortal now," Lian Xi protested, puzzled.

    "Someone must guard the Arbiter Immortal," Dean Yu murmured, her voice a whisper in the girl''s ear. "Should unforeseen events arise, we need someone to carry on the mission."

    At this, Lian Xi could only look towards Yun Xiao.

    "Stay," Yun Xiao said with a smile. He, too, was reluctant to have Lian Xi witness him wielding the powers of demons and devils.

    With the two most important people in her life advising her, Lian Xi, despite her worries, nodded. "Then I''ll keep an eye on any changes in the Immortal Asylum."

    "Let''s have a drink together when I return," Yun Xiao said softly.

    Lian Xi''s cheeks flushed. "Yes!"

    With that, Yun Xiao took to the skies on his Sovereign Sword, followed by the others, each a streak of light heading towards the Immortal Asylum, their hearts braced against the unknown, ready to face death without flinching.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Not long after their journey began, the Immortal Asylum loomed before Yun Xiao and hispany. A vista unfolded where the divine steles, once lowered by the Three Immortals, were shattered by the Nian.

    In their ce, a ring of illusionary torrents enveloped the Asylum. Endless, snow-white streams poured in from its eight gates, within which shimmering lights twinkled, hinting at myriad real worlds contained within.

    "Where are your people?" Dean Yu turned to ask the Mirage Immortal.

    "The Sky Source Immortal is formidable. Only by engaging him at close quarters can we drain his strength effectively," the Mirage Immortal exined.

    "The entire Immortal Asylum has be your sea of illusions," Dean Yu observed, locking eyes with the Mirage Immortal.

    "Rest assured, should I turn on you before the Sky Source Immortal falls, I would be short-sighted, courting my own demise," the Mirage Immortal assured them seriously.

    "And after his fall?" Dean Yu inquired.

    "After that, we''ll all rejoice, yet be too exhausted for conflict. There will be plenty of time to determine the victor then. Why rush to confrontation amongst allies with the Human Zenith Immortal still atrge?" the Mirage Immortal responded with a wry shake of the head and a bitter smile.

    The understanding was clear. With only the Human Zenith Immortal remaining, how could they not seek vengeance?

    In this three-way power struggle, the Primordial Academy, being the weakest, paradoxically became the safest.

    With that, the conversation concluded. The Mirage Immortal gestured for them to follow, leading the way into the white sea of illusions.

    This bizarre, fantastical ocean seemed to have no effect on them. They tore through the waves of illusion, prating deep into the Immortal Asylum, to the site of the former nine hells'' contest for supremacy.

    "Three thousand Dreamsea Abalones are over there," Yun Xiao pointed out. Following his gaze, they saw 3,000 snow-white shellfish demons, standing erect, embedded in the ground in circr formations.

    "The Sky Source Immortal!"

    At the center of these circles sat an old man, his clothes tattered, his hair unkempt, legs trembling. His paleplexion and emaciated body spoke volumes of his current vulnerability.

    Yun Xiao had encountered the Sky Source Immortal before, a figure then as radiant as the sun and as unyielding as a mountain, inspiring awe and fear. Now, reduced to a shadow of his former self, with dark circles under his eyes, it was evident...

    "The illusions of the Dreamsea Abalones have indeed taken their toll on him," Shen Cang murmured.

    "After three days of wearing him down, we''ve obliterated at least seventy percent of hisbat strength. Now, we just need your help for the final blow to ensure victory," the Mirage Immortal said.

    As they positioned themselves above the Sky Source Immortal, the sight of the chaos-inciting viin weakened to such an extent ignited a surge of vengeance in the 200 Yin-Yang Immortals gathered. Their eyes zed with the fires of retribution as they readied their magic treasures, Life Sigils, and Sword Souls.

    "What''s the n?" Dean Yu asked, raising an eyebrow.

    "I''ll leave 2,000 of my kin to continue the illusion, while the rest will follow me... to exterminate you all," The Mirage Immortal''s tone shifted mid-sentence, his gaze turning to Yun Xiao and the others with a sinister smile. The cruelty and mockery in his eyes grew wild.

    As his words ended, the 2,000 Dreamsea Abalones below suddenly turned, stirring the towering sea of illusion against the 200 humans. The remaining 1,000 Dreamsea Abalones pulled from the earth and closed their shells, spinning furiously like white-ded gears.

    "To exterminate us?"

    The abrupt betrayal stunned everyone present, Yun Xiao included, who thought he might have misheard.

    "Are you out of your mind? What happened to our three-way power bnce, targeting the strongest first?" Yun Xiao''s eyes shed sharply.

    "Where did you get that idea? In all myriad worlds, there''s only the struggle between good and evil." The Mirage Immortal winked seductively, bursting intoughter.

    Meanwhile, the frail-looking Sky Source Immortal rose to his feet and looked towards Yun Xiao and the others with a menacing tone, "I stand with the Dreamsea Abalones on the side of good, while you, the scum that crosses the street, represent evil! You, with your malevolent ways, have drawn the ire of both heaven and man. And so, it''s only natural for us to join forces to utterly destroy you!"

    His gaze became wild as he fixated on Yun Xiao. "It was you who harmed my brother. I worried I might never find you, yet here you are, walking into hell''s gates of your own ord."

    Despite being duped, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but look at the Dreamsea Abalones in bewilderment, "You''vee all this way just to support the Three Immortals? Weren''t you after the Immortal Asylum?"

    "In the grand scheme of things, what is the Immortal Asylumpared to our age-old alliance with the Three Immortals?" The Mirage Immortal posed the question as 1,000 Dreamsea Abalones, akin to ded gears, rose up and encircled the human cultivators. Meanwhile, another 2,000 crafted an illusionary ocean, morphing into a colossal sphere that sealed off any escape for Yun Xiao and his allies.

    At this, the Sky Source Immortal and the Dreamsea Abalones shared a chillingugh.

    "Something''s not right!" Yun Xiao''s gaze, fiery and intense, locked onto the Mirage Immortal. "Your eagerness to please him shows fear! You never feared the dominance of the Three Immortals before, but now you do. This implies he has a powerful backer that even you are afraid of!"

    Caught off guard, the Mirage Immortal sneered back, "Wild guesses won''t save a dying man."

    "I''m right," Yun Xiao asserted, pointing at the Sky Source Immortal with a puzzled expression. "Why else would he be so weakened?"

    The Sky Source Immortal''s legs were trembling as if he were exhausted from over-exerting himself, hardly the image of a feigned weakness. Prompted by Yun Xiao''s question, both the Sky Source Immortal and all the Dreamsea Abalones seemed increasingly agitated.

    "This youngster is peculiar. Leave him to me so I can avenge my brother; the rest are yours," the Sky Source Immortal dered coldly.

    "Yes!" the Mirage Immortal hastily agreed, clearly intimidated.

    With the force of the 3,000 Dreamsea Abalones, how could the 200 human Yin-Yang Immortals possibly stand a chance?N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Excluding Yun Xiao, this was an overwhelming mismatch! What was once an even fight had now turned drastically against them. Faced with such a dire situation, despair would cloud any heart.

    "Dean Yu, Martial Emperor!" The 200 humans turned their trembling gazes towards their pirs of strength.

    "Yun Xiao..."

    Yet, Dean Yu and Shen Cang almost instinctively looked towards the young man in white before them...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 479: If Humanity is to Fall, We Shall Perish First!

    Chapter 479: If Humanity is to Fall, We Shall Perish First!

    Yun Xiao suddenly turned, locking eyes with the 200 human cultivators, his voice deep, "The alliance with the Dreamsea Abalones was mine to make, and mine to answer for should misfortune arise!"

    "And?" Dean Yu asked, her eyes quivering slightly as she gazed at him.

    "Stick together, survive together. I''ll seek out the opportunity," Yun Xiao stated, his voice not loud, but his determination unmistakable.

    "Agreed!"

    Almost in unison, they responded, their eyes alight with resolve. For reasons unknown, at this desperate juncture, their trust in Yun Xiao deepened immeasurably.

    It wasughable, when one thought about it. Against an opponent nine times their strength, what chance of survival was there?

    It was Yun Xiao''s cold, fearless gaze that made them forget the reality of their predicament!

    "If we all perish here, the myriad worlds and theirmon folk are doomed!"

    "Thankfully, we still have Lian Xi..."It was this thought that drove them into a frenzy, epting their fates with a wild resolve.

    "Guard your minds! Resist the illusions! Stand together, fight your way out!" With eyes zing, standing firm, Yun Xiao''s voice boomed, echoing with a force that shook the very core of their beings.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    A collective tremor ran through them!

    Looking out, the illusory ocean brought forth by 2,000 Dreamsea Abalones was already crashing towards them from all sides.

    Taking a deep breath, the 200 human cultivators shouted out in unison, the orders given by Yun Xiao helped them withstand the assault of the illusory ocean.

    "Fall back, form up!" Dean Yu''s icymand swept over them.

    They were the true elite of the myriad worlds, and in this crucial moment, they cast aside all else, facing this peril with nothing but their sense of duty.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>No sooner had they retreated to the corner than the white illusory ocean engulfed them.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The illusory ocean struck with relentless force.

    These phantom tides dragged each individual into a separate world, making them forget the battle and forget the will to live, showing them objects of their affection and immersing them in past joys and sorrows.

    "My dear daughter..." The Jade Immortal Tower Lord tore through the phantom tides, only to see a young woman before him, crying, blood pouring from her eyes, ears, nose, and mouth in despair as she looked at him, wailing, "Father! Yun Xiao has cruelly killed me. Why do you fight for him, why!"

    "Ah!" The Jade Immortal Tower Lord stood frozen, as if struck by lightning, eyes wide in disbelief, his heart torn asunder.

    "What are you doing!"

    As his daughter embraced him, out of nowhere, a bald figure crashed into them, pping the Jade Immortal Tower Lord squarely on the forehead.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The girl transformed into a spinning shell demon, massive as a mountain, hurtling towards them.

    The bald man sent Jade Immortal Tower Lord flying, narrowly avoiding the Dreamsea Abalone''s crushing blow. Had he not been saved, unguarded, arms open for an embrace, his very innards might have been shattered!

    "Keep your mind steadfast! What are you dazing for?" the bald man scolded angrily.

    "Yun Dahe..." The Jade Immortal Tower Lord, shaken from the illusion, asked in disbelief, "What... what did you see?"

    Scratching his head, Yun Dahe chuckled. "Countless, ethereally unclothed beauties."

    "And you didn''t reach out to embrace?" the Jade Immortal Tower Lord asked, stunned.

    "If one were to indulge in the wisdom of sages more often, they''d not fall for such base temptations!" Yun Dahe scoffed, standing up to draw a massive Sword Soul, cleaving down a Dreamsea Abalone that charged at them!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The demon''s shell was tough, yet it shattered under his strike, its soft insides exploding out, blood spraying everywhere.

    "Maintain your focus, clear as a polished mirror, stand up, fight!" Yun Dahe roared.

    He was valiant, but the numbers of the Dreamsea Abalones were overwhelming. No sooner had he in one than dozens more, their shells like des, charged at him, the phantom sea enveloping him once again!

    <em>PUFF! </em>Yun Dahe, facing off against dozens alone, was repeatedly struck, spitting blood, a crimson gash torn across his chest!

    Even a powerful Yang Immortal like him struggled to endure, let alone the others.

    Had they not retreated to the corner in time, they would''ve been scattered and ughtered in waves!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The white illusory ocean was relentless, incessantly battering them!

    Within the illusion, loved ones, friends, beauties, and children could at any moment turn into deadly des, their hardness enough to crush any ordinary being to dust!

    "Hold on!"

    Their only option was to shout, reminding each other of the opponent, stripping away the illusions. In small groups, huddled together, they could withstand the death storm brought by foes many times their number.

    Dean Yu and Shen Cnag stood at the forefront, one to the left, the other behind, using their zing martial spirits in their hearts to block the illusionary storm. They faced hundreds of charging Dreamsea Abalones alone, fighting bloodily.

    "Follow the Emperor, follow the Dean!"

    With these two standing, the human stalwarts still had faith and hope.

    To fall was to die. And with it, the extinction of their race. Who didn''t wish to live?

    "Do any of you have the Myriad Poison Pill? Taking this pill can stimte the brain, resisting the illusion!" Dean Yu shouted back at them amidst the fight.

    "Myriad Poison Pill? It''s poison, it''ll damage the brain..." Feng Qingcong said, trembling.

    "If we die, it''s all over. Afraid of bing fools? Take the pill, kill the demons!" Yun Dahe roared, grabbing a handful of Myriad Poison Pills and swallowing them, his head immediately emitting ck smoke.

    "Eating so much? Seems you too can''t resist the lower temptations," the Jade Immortal Tower Lord remarked, also hastily asking others for some Myriad Poison Pills. Gritting his teeth, he consumed a fair amount.

    The pain of losing his daughter, the root cause was the Three Immortals!

    He would miss her but didn''t want to see her now, for she could be his death!

    "Kill!!"

    Risking bing fools, one after another, the human cultivators swallowed the Myriad Poison Pills, their foreheads emitting ck smoke, their killing intent surging, trying their best to break free from the illusionary sea, engaging the Dreamsea Abalones in closebat.

    Truth be told, without the support of the illusionary sea, even if the enemies outnumbered them threefold, they were unafraid!

    The act of consuming the poison pills indeed stunned both the Sky Source Immortal and the Dreamsea Abalones.

    "A bunch of stubborn fools." The Sky Source Immortal sneered, then turned to the Mirage Immortal. "Aren''t you going to join in?"

    "As youmand!" The Mirage Immortal mobilized 3,000 of his kind, not expecting to have to enter the fray himself.

    He transformed suddenly into a golden, colossal shell demon, shining with a dazzling golden light, like a mountain of gold, charging towards Dean Yu.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Dean Yu''s lotus tform collided with the demon, and already injured, the impact shattered the tform. She herself was sent flying, blood spraying from her mouth as she crashed against the walls of the Immortal Asylum, her white hair stained with blood.

    "Insignificant." The Mirage Immortal sneered. His attack spurred the other Dreamsea Abalones into a frenzied, more ferocious assault.

    What the Mirage Immortal hadn''t anticipated was Dean Yu shaking off the blow, swallowing another handful of Myriad Poison Pills. With eyes red, she red at him and transformed into a lotus storm, hurling herself at him again.

    "Just the 200 of you, attempting to stand against the Primordial Ruins and the Oblivion Demon Sea, is like trying to stop a chariot with your arms, utterly overestimating yourselves." The Mirage Immortalughed coldly, leading the charge of Dreamsea Abalones once more!

    The illusionary storm behind them intensified, to the point where even the Myriad Poison Pills were ineffective. Illusions were the most potent magic of the Dreamsea Abalones!

    Yet, these 200 human cultivators still held on withoutint, continuing their bloodied, desperate fight! In their eyes, there was no fear of death. Only one concept¡ªduty!

    "If humanity is to fall, we shall perish first!"

    It was Dean Yu''s words that kept them united, fighting to the death against the demons!

    The battle was just beginning, but blood already stained the floors of the Immortal Asylum red.

    "These fools are indeed brave, but their blood is doomed to run dry."

    Elsewhere, the Sky Source Immortal blocked Yun Xiao''s path, his jaundiced eyes fixed on the young man in white.

    "What have you done in these three days, appearing so weak?" Yun Xiao, as if he hadn''t heard him, asked instead.

    He didn''t even nce towards Dean Yu, seemingly indifferent to their life or death.

    "Are you seeking death?" The Sky Source Immortal furrowed his brow.

    "Couldn''t be that you''ve overindulged with the Dreamsea Abalones, only to realize toote that you''re too old to withstand it?" Yun Xiao asked, a cold smirk on his face.

    "Got a lot to say, have you?" The Sky Source Immortal frowned.

    Yun Xiao snorted withughter, shaking his head. "This is too funny. You''re pleasuring yourself with shellfish. Your ancestors would be ashamed."

    "Silence!" Fury ignited in the Sky Source Immortal, his eyes wild as he roared, his presence terrifying.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A vast illusionary sea gathered around Yun Xiao.

    In reality, to curry favor with the Sky Source Immortal, the Mirage Immortal had ordered over 500 Dreamsea Abalones to specifically target Yun Xiao.

    Yet, it seemed to have no effect.

    The Soulfire Eye on Yun Xiao''s forehead glowed violet, making the storm of illusions before him seem non-existent.

    "Second Brother, just how did you ever lose to this punk?" The Sky Source Immortal sneered, stepping towards Yun Xiao with each step causing the ground to shatter, the Immortal Asylum itself trembling.

    "Sky Source Golden Fortress!" The Sky Source Immortal uttered this mantra, his body emanating dazzling golden light. In an instant, his flesh transformed into diamond-hard metal, his previously frail body now towering, twice its original height, imposing as a titan made of gold, his arms as thick as Yun Xiao''s waist.

    He became a gleaming golden giant, his body fully armored.

    An emaciated old man transformed into a tempestuous golden armored god of war in just a blink!

    At this moment, the Sky Source Immortal truly disyed the divine might of one of the top Immortals in the myriad worlds, an absolute shock to all who beheld.

    "Fearless before the might of heaven, little punk?" The Sky Source Immortal smirked, spreading his hands as two beams of golden light converged in his palms, ultimately forming two massive golden maces!

    Each mace, six feet in length and thicker than Yun Xiao''s thigh, resembled the spine of a dragon. Heavy, rigid, and bristling with edges like a mace, covered in dense symbols, their lethality was beyondprehension.

    "The only Immortal weapons in the myriad worlds, the Gilded Dragon Maces?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow. He had long heard of these golden maces!

    This was the true hallmark of the Sky Source Immortal, a cornerstone of his strength, even surpassing the Martial Emperor''s Armor in rank.

    In the past, such Immortal weapons did not exist!

    These Immortal weapons were personally brought by the Sky Source Immortal!

    And Immortal weapons, said to be divine treasures of the celestial court, should not exist in the mortal realm!

    At this moment, with the Sky Source Golden Fortress and the Gilded Dragon Maces, the Sky Source Immortal''s divine might was unparalleled.

    In his presence, Yun Xiao indeed seemed insignificant.

    Such divine power also plunged the struggling human cultivators into despair!

    The Mystic Earth Immortal had been crushed without having the chance to use his Life Sigil.

    Without the Great Decay, the terror of the Sky Source Immortal had already been deeply etched into their memories!

    Yet, under such divine illumination, Yun Xiao calmlyughed. "Changing your form, wielding a couple of sticks, does that cover up the fact that a group of shellfish drained you?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>As his words fell, one of the Sky Source Immortal''s Gilded Dragon Maces smashed down towards him, transforming into a golden dragon in an instant, like a massive whip!

    This strike was powerful enough to shatter mountain ranges!

    Such terrifying and brute force made even those human cultivators and Dreamsea Abalones, who were not the target, tremble in their hearts, despair spontaneously arising.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Gilded Dragon Mace, looming overhead, shattered the ground under Yun Xiao before it even reached him.

    In many people''s hearts, he was already a dead man! But then, he suddenly reached out his hand, seemingly slowly, yet in an instant, he grasped the massive mace!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The impact of the blow shook the entire Immortal Asylum!

    "A human catching an Immortal weapon with his hands? Even a Martial Cultivator would be blown to dust..!" Shen Cang cried out hoarsely, observing from afar.

    "No¡­!" Those human cultivators still holding hope for Yun Xiao felt as if struck by lightning, despair blooming in their hearts.

    "Hahaha!" The Mirage Immortal couldn''t help butugh delicately.

    At that moment, the Sky Source Immortal let out an incredulous scream, "WHAT!? Y-YOU!?!"

    The dust settled. There stood the young man in white amidst the ruins, like a monstrous beast, catching the Gilded Dragon Mace with one hand. The ground beneath him turned to dust, yet not a tear marred his robe.

    This scene struck all present with a heart-shaking blow, rendering them speechless as if a rock was lodged in their throats.

    "Impossible! Not even the Nian could withstand..." the Mirage Immortal shrieked, breaking the silence.

    And he guessed right. But that was the weakened Nian! Now, the Nian had been freed and allowed to feast! On top of that, it''d beenbined with the Divine Destion Physique that had reached the level of a Yang Immortal!

    "Sky Source Immortal..." Amidst swirling dust, the young man in white lifted his head, a cold smile on his lips. "Didn''t I tell you? You''ve grown old and weak. Your little stick is feeble and frail!"

    "Little bastard!" The Sky Source Immortal''s face twisted in anger, spitting out a mouthful of golden blood.

    "Yun Xiao!"

    Dean Yu, Shen Cang, and the others watched this scene, eyes suddenly brimming with tears. Were it not for the crisis of life and death before them, many would''ve started actually sobbing.

    They had hoped Yun Xiao could withstand the blow. Yet, they never imagined he could instill such deep fear and despair in the Sky Source Immortal and the Dreamsea Abalones.

    "With Yun Xiao leading us to battle, we can win!" Dean Yu wiped away the blood and tears on her face, her voice ringing with determination.

    The human cultivators stood tall. The mes of renewed conviction ignited in their eyes as they looked towards Yun Xiao, then at the terrified Dreamsea Abalones.

    "KILL!!"

 Chapter 480: Starry Sky!

    Chapter 480: Starry Sky!

    In a moment when humanity''s cultivators faced their darkest despair, their minds fevered, and their hearts thundered with boundless battle spirit and ignited an infinite fervor for battle!

    This battle spirit also fortified them against the invasive illusions of the Dreamsea Abalones.

    Seeing even these cornered ratssh out in madness, the Mirage Immortal''s irritation simmered, sharing a nce with the Sky Source Immortal.

    "Forget these flies, let''s finish him off!" With a swift motion, the Sky Source Immortal withdrew his Golden Dragon Maces, their withdrawal sounding a metallic sh, harsh to the ears.

    "Agreed!"

    It was Yun Xiao, whose unthinkable prowess had turned the tides, now drawing the killing intent of both the Sky Source Immortal and the entirety of the Dreamsea Abalones upon him.

    Alone, he presented a fatal threat to this alliance of overwhelming force.

    "Confuse him!"

    At the Mirage Immortal''smand, the 2,000 Dreamsea Abalones stationed in the ground trembled violently, pivoting direction to unleash a flood akin to bodily fluid. This viscous torrent solidified into a white illusionary ocean, no longer targeting the human cultivators but instead forming an enveloping array aimed solely at Yun Xiao.<em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The illusory ocean coalesced into a colossal sphere, trapping Yun Xiao and the Sky Source Immortal within, with vast waves rolling around, pressing in on the youth d in white.

    "2,000 Dreamsea Abalones focusing their illusions on one person. Not even a True Immortal could withstand this assault!"

    This was the foundational confidence of the Dreamsea Abalones, unchallenged across the myriad worlds for generations.

    In this moment, Yun Xiao stood alone against thebined might of the Sky Source Immortal and the 2,000 Dreamsea Abalones!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The white illusory ocean formed thousands of waves, like a gaping maw ready to swallow him whole.

    Seeing this, the Sky Source Immortal, wielding his Gilded Dragon Maces, charged at Yun Xiao with a force destructive enough to shatter worlds. His movements were grand and ferocious.

    Normally, under the illusory assault of 2,000 Dreamsea Abalones, even a True Immortal would be paralyzed, helpless against the Sky Source Immortal''s crushing blow.

    Yet, within Yun Xiao''s brow, the Soulfire Eye, adorned with over 9,000,000 Runes shone brilliantly. He even closed his eyes, relying solely on the vision from his Prison Warden Sigil to shatter the myriad illusions before him.

    Beauties, loved ones, foes, childhood, parents... All manner of vivid illusions, lifelike fantasies, disintegrated under the purifying force of the Prison Warden Sigil. The movements of those snow-white mollusks and the golden-armored Sky Source Immortal wereid bare before Yun Xiao''s gaze.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "You two may dominate the myriad worlds with your illusions and bugs¡­ But you''re nothing but parasites, minor specters on my path!"

    Within the depths of Yun Xiao''s Soulfire Eyey an icy detachment, devoid of any trace of emotion. He stood aloft, as if atop a great mountain, gazing down coldly upon his adversaries on both fronts.

    This was thebined assault of 2,000 Dreamsea Abalones! Yet, they faltered before the might of the Prison Warden Sigil.

    With a thunderous echo, his form shifted, breaking free from the illusion''s bind. Cloaked in white, his figure dashed, evading the Sky Source Immortal''s golden mace with a speed and ferocity that defied the flesh, leaving expectations shattered.

    "The illusions still aren''t working!??" The Mirage Immortal quivered inwardly at the sight.

    In that instant, as Yun Xiao dodged the Sky Source Immortal''s strike, retreating, he cast a cold smile towards the Dreamsea Abalones, his lips curling in scorn.

    Swift as the wind, he retreated, flinging forth a verdant Flying Sword from his grasp.

    The air tore with a screeching whistle, a sound so piercing it seemed to bore through the eardrums of all within the Immortal Asylum.

    The raw power of the Nian and the Divine Destion Physique,bined with the vast power of the Mortal Dust Devil Bood, alongside the sacred power from Yun Xiao''s Primordial Void Technique, converged upon this singr Flying Sword!

    Like fireworks, the seemingly simple Flying Sword burst forth, transforming into a verdant starry ocean amidst the ranks of the 2,000 Dreamsea Abalones.

    It was a sword strike of unparalleled brilliance, as if one were under a dazzling starry sky! A single sh brought forth a gxy of shining stars!

    "What..."

    "Ah!"

    Amidst the glittering of countless stars, each Dreamsea Abalone standing upon the ground exploded into mists of blood, painting a scene where the mist of gore mingled with the shimmering cosmos.

    "NOOO!" The Mirage Immortal, witnessing this starry sky unfurl alongside the screams of his kin, saw them pierced and in by the Flying Sword.

    What seemed a celestial splendor was, in truth, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul''s nearly 10,000,000yers of Sword Aura mercilessly ravaging through each Dreamsea Abalone, rending their flesh and silencing their screams in a ghastly chorus of death.

    With a gasp, the illusion of the 2,000 Dreamsea Abalones shattered in an instant. The white illusory ocean vanished, revealing a scene of devastation where the Mirage Immortal''s haremy dead or wounded, a swath of gore before him.

    Beyond the physical devastation, the deeper, more enduring pain was that inflicted upon the soul.

    Yun Xiao, ignoring the illusion, with a sword technique that sent a swarm of Flying Swords slicing through air and flesh alike, had exceeded the wildest imaginations of the Dreamsea Abalones. His method, so brutally efficient, struck terror into the hearts of these shell-bound demons.

    Throughout the ages, across countless worlds, when had they ever seen a being wielding such a potent power of mass destruction? And to think, someone could stand indifferent to their illusions!

    In essence, Yun Xiao was their nemesis. With a single sword, a single sigil, he became the nightmare of these deep-sea demons.

    The residual might of the Flying Sword even reached the Mirage Immortal, who, with a rapid spin of his golden shell, barely deflected the lethal blow.

    <em>KLANG! </em>The Mirage Immortal felt a sharp pain on his shell, and upon inspection, found it marred with chaotic sword marks.

    The memory of the stars¡¯ shining moment was etched deep into his psyche.

    "What manner of Flying Sword technique is this? Unseen in all the worlds!" The Mirage Immortal''s skin crawled as he blurted out the question, bewildered.

    "I devised it myself, drawing from the collective wisdom of the Primordial Ruins. Let''s call it Starry Sky," Yun Xiao replied, catching the returning Sword Soul with a chime.

    "A self-created technique..."

    A technique of his own making, by a mere youth of 16, had surpassed the greatest achievements of the Primordial Ruins throughout its history.

    The term <em>monster</em> seemed inadequate to describe him.

    "Enough talk. Take action!" the Sky Source Immortal roared, his eyes trembling with rage.

    The Mirage Immortal, heart pounding, nced at the Sky Source Immortal, pondered his powerful backing, and gritted his teeth, deciding to engage.

    But below, where the Dreamsea Abalones had already suffered heavy casualties, terror had taken hold. They were either wailing in agony or looking at each other in dismay, not daring to move against the human cultivators anymore.

    "Stop your foolishness. The Sky Source Immortal has the backing of the heavens, and Yun Xiao, so powerful at such a young age, must have an even greater force behind him!"

    Faced with imminent defeat, the Dreamsea Abalones whispered of retreat to the Oblivion Demon Sea, where survival still flickered within grasp. Chaos reigned among them, each fearing for their own existence.

    On the other side, Shen Cang and Dean Yu saw not just a glimmer of victory but the opportunity for a decisive chase.

    Their morale soared. Without the confusion of illusions, the mere 200 Yin-Yang Immortals, wielding their magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils, pursued the reluctant Dreamsea Abalones.

    The tide had turned. Yet, in their hearts, they knew the pain of countless worlds hung on Yun Xiao''s sess.

    Dean Yu, with eyes reddened and heart pounding, watched the youth in white. "We must win..."

    "Down with the Sky Source Immortal!" Shen Cang roared, his eyes aze.

    "Strike!"

    Their numbers were few, but their war cries shook the air, sowing panic among the Dreamsea Abalones, who faltered without their illusions.

    It was a sight beyond belief. The hunted turned hunter, pressing the predators to the ground, a scene so surreal it begged the witness of one''s own eyes to believe.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Sky Source Immortal and the Mirage Immortal, one a golden figure, the other a golden shell, encircled Yun Xiao. The Mirage Immortal spun like a golden cog, slicing through the air with beams of light¡ªnowughably ineffective without the cover of illusions.

    The Dreamsea Abalones, stripped of their ability to bewitch, were reduced to shadows of their former selves. The Mirage Immortal, relying on brute force, was hardly a match for even the likes of Shen Cang.

    Yun Xiao spared him no heed, a clown unworthy of attention. Catching the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, his gaze fixed solely on the Sky Source Immortal.

    In his grasp, a modest three-inch Flying Sword transformed into a three-foot azure de. The almost 10,000,000yers of Sword Aura transformed into a swirling sea of azure. This de, adorned with ten Dreamsea Abalone Sword Rings, each radiating with the power of Yang Immortals, proved a formidable weapon even against the Sky Source Immortal.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s gaze sharpened, his demonic essence and devilish blood erupting forth in a disy of raw power.

    He opened his eyes, revealing not just two, but a total of three eyes upon his face! Then, with a tear, below his two eyes, two more slender fissures split open, revealing the greedy and savage eyes of the Nian, eager to join the fray.

    With these eyes, his demonic aura peaked, transforming him into a being more monstrous than the Dreamsea Abalones themselves. His visage, marked by five eyes, epitomized brutality and ferocity.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Mortal Dust Devil Blood, like dragons coiled around him, added a suffocating scent of blood to his already savage demeanor.

    Now, with the Will of Divine Destion and the prowess of the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, Yun Xiao shed any remnants of his Immortal grace, embodying a demon-devil hybrid. His terrifying presence made everyone, human and demon alike, gasp in shock.

    Facing away, only the Sky Source Immortal witnessed the Nian''s eyes on Yun Xiao''s face. Had Dean Yu and the others seen them, panic would surely have ensued.

    Dean Yu''s reluctance to trust Yun Xiao was justified; she couldn''t be certain he was benevolent...

    "Those eyes!" The Sky Source Immortal stared at Yun Xiao, his heart quaking with recognition.

    Where had he seen those eyes before?

    "Hahaha..." Yun Xiao''s smile twisted, his five eyes locking onto the Sky Source Immortal. As he grinned, sharp canines gleamed within his mouth¡ªa sight so ferocious that even the Sky Source Immortal, a viin for ages, felt his heart tremble.

    "I see now, you are the most malevolent creature in this world!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 481: Sorry, But Youre Dead!

    Chapter 481: Sorry, But You''re Dead!

    In a low growl, the Sky Source Immortal lost control, charging towards Yun Xiao like a golden mountain, his hands wielding his golden maces that stirred up a storm of golden sand.

    The Sky Immortal Golden Fortress,bined with the Gilded Dragon Maces, transformed everything they touched to gold. Even the stone walls of the Immortal Asylum turned into impregnable metallic barriers, all converging on Yun Xiao with crushing force.

    Within the heart of this golden tempest, Yun Xiao''s coldughter grew eerily louder. Cloaked in a robe that billowed with blood mist, he met the Sky Source Immortal''s charge head-on without a word, his three-foot azure de piercing forward in a swift thrust.

    <em>BOOM! </em>His sword technique began with simplicity, but in the moment of the thrust, the Sword Aura and the momentum of the de underwent aplex and dramatic transformation, birthing a celestial sword of azure light that stretched a thousand meters, dense with the brilliance of stars.

    This sword, outshining even the brightest constetion, concentrated all the destructive power of the Sword Soul into a single line of unwavering will. It carved a path through the dark void of space, a river of stars that raced towards the golden storm unleashed by the Sky Source Immortal.

    The sh that ensued was the loudest yet, the azure river of stars tearing through the golden storm with irresistible force. The Heaven Burial Sword Soul, like the scythe of the grim reaper, cut through the Gilded Dragon Maces and plunged into the Sky Source Immortal''s abdomen.

    <em>KLANG! </em>The sword struck against his metal-like body. But in an instant, the near-infinite Sword Aura, like a storm boring through, tore through the Sky Source Immortal''s Sky Source Golden Fortress, puncturing his chest and leaving a golden bloodied cavity three inches in diameter.

    "AGHHH!!" The Sky Source Immortal cried out in pain as heshed out with his Gilded Dragon Maces, forcing Yun Xiao to roll away.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>He staggered back three steps, each one shaking the Immortal Asylum to its core.Looking down, he realized his invincible body had suffered irreparable damage.

    In this head-on confrontation, he was defeated in a single move, undeniably bested by Yun Xiao''s sword technique.

    "My heavens..." The human cultivators and the Dreamsea Abalones collectively held their breath, paralyzed by the spectacle.

    The Dreamsea Abalones were numbed to their core. And the human cultivators, after their initial shock, were overwhelmed with joy to the point of tears, their voices lost in the moment.

    Vanquishing the Three Immortals had always been their ultimate dream. Yet, it remained just that¡ªa dream far too grand to dare hope for. They held faith, yes, but never in their wildest dreams did they imagine they could witness one of their own overpower the trio in sheer martial prowess.

    A single man, a single de, sweeping through the Three Immortals.

    "Thanks be to the heavens for blessing us with this son! Gratitude to our ancestors for their protection..." Dean Yu, her body marred with wounds, now sat softly upon the ground, tears of joy streaming down her face.

    But theugh from the Sky Source Immortal tightened everyone''s hearts anew¡ªa wild, derangedughter that echoed amidst the tension. Clutching the gaping wound in his chest, he red at Yun Xiao, his eyes crazed and bloodshot, embodying the desperation of a cornered beast.

    "In all my time in the Celestial Court, I''ve never encountered a case like yours. You''re an exception, an anomaly the world cannot contain!" the Sky Source Immortal dered.

    "The world cannot contain me?" Yun Xiao nced at him coldly. "No matter, for I am my own world. I have room for myself."

    The Sky Source Immortalughed scornfully, his expression twisted as he stared at Yun Xiao. "Do you really think you alone can destroy the foundation we brothers have built over centuries?"

    "And why not?" Yun Xiao replied with a cold smirk. "You and the Mystic Earth Immortal are like weak bugs, easily crushed."

    His words were a direct assault on the pride the Sky Source Immortal had held for centuries, breaking through his defensespletely. With a grotesque expression, he roared, "Die!"

    As he roared, he pulled out a golden bottle from his robes, uncapped it, and swallowed the golden liquid inside in one gulp. <em>SMASH! </em>He shattered the bottle and gave Yun Xiao a meaningful smirk, taunting, "Sorry, but you''re dead."

    "Yun Xiao, be careful..."

    The human cultivators shouted warnings upon seeing this, indicating the Sky Source Immortal''s final move was truly fearsome.

    "Could it be the legendary Golden Archemperor Beetle Essence?"

    "Most likely!"

    Yun Xiao caught bits of their conversation.

    "To think the eldest brother of the Three Immortals would make aeback. Winning too easily would have felt somewhatcking," Yun Xiao said, not rmed but rather pleased, with a smile.

    The Sky Source Immortal''s eyes bulged, nearly popping out, his tongue trembling violently.

    Without responding to Yun Xiao, his body underwent a drastic transformation. The originally golden body of celestial metal regressed to its aged form, but in the next instant, his body began to sprout golden armor!

    With a series of cracking sounds, he screamed as his ribcage suddenly tore open, sprouting several long, sharp insect legs. His face contorted, eyes morphing into densepound eyes, and from his skull, a golden horn erupted amidst the rending flesh.

    His cries filled the air as he writhed on the ground, his body undergoing a horrific transformation. The armor on his body shifted wildly, and a fierce, terrifying aura swept out as the Sky Source Immortal almost became a hybrid of man and insect. Though retaining some human features, before Yun Xiao, he was nothing but a golden beetle.

    Undoubtedly healed and no longer frail, he appeared much more formidable and ruthless than in his original form. Confidently, he stowed away the Golden Dragon Maces, ready to rely solely on his newfound beetle form to battle Yun Xiao.

    "This truly suits you." Yun Xiao chuckled.

    The Golden Archemperor Beetle hissed, a creature neither demon nor human, itsrgepound eyes reflecting the Sky Source Immortal''s anger and ferocity. Uponpleting its transformation, it screeched and charged at Yun Xiao. Its body had erged significantly, and its movements suggested a power that could split mountains and crack the earth, shaking the Immortal Asylum more violently than even the Nian.

    Its insectoid-like legs, akin to long spears, were deadly weapons. It was in aplete frenzy.

    Yun Xiao, however, remained calm and detached throughout, like a demon lord atop a high mountain, looking down on the desperate insect below.

    "Use the Projection Orb to ensure all beings remember the appearance of the Sky Source Immortal they once worshiped at this moment," Yun Xiao said indifferently.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Right!" Dean Yu and the others responded in unison.

    "And let them see how magnificent my next sword move is!"

    With those words, Yun Xiao transformed the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into a six-foot Sovereign Sword. He took to the air, sword underfoot, and with a gesture to the space between his brows, the Soulfire Eye unfurled, the over 9,000,000 Runes transforming into nine dragons that enveloped his body, assuming the Dao Dragon form!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao soared upwards, his white robe fluttering as if he were an Immortal riding the winds. He charged towards the Golden Archemperor Beetle, a streak of azure light tracing his path.

    With a thunderous roar, he pressed his hands together, and a massive violet chessboard descended from the sky!

    This appeared to be the Primordial Academy''s Pr Yin-Yang Chess, but in an instant, the board expanded into 99yers. Instead of chess pieces, it bore countless shining stars, numbering in the thousands!

    With a thunderous crash, the cosmic chessboard, bearing a myriad of stars, mmed down upon the Golden Archemperor Beetle. It was as if 100,000 mountains had descended to pin it to the earth, its back armor shattered, golden blood spraying wildly as its eight legs were crushed, either snapped or broken. Before it could even rise, Yun Xiao hadpletely overwhelmed it.

    This technique was undoubtedly a creation of his own, drawing from the wisdom of numerous schools within the Primordial Ruins. With a single Life Sigil enhanced daoist spell, he subdued the transformed Sky Source Immortal.

    Then, Yun Xiao, riding his Sovereign Sword, approached. Along the way, he took a swig of wine, spraying it over his sword, hisughter boisterous as he recited, ¡°Through the heavens, with my sword and wine, to y bugs and serpents, it won¡¯t take much time!¡±

    This verse, crude as it was, silenced many who were poised to praise it as <em>good poetry</em>. The poetry might have been rough, but the swordsmanship disyed in that instant dazzled all who witnessed it. He soared, the stars around him twinkling like an Immortal traversing the Milky Way, eternal as the heavens and earth, as radiant as the sun and moon! That sword, its azure light a dream within the projection, showcased a brilliance and magnificence in swordy unseen in myriad worlds before or after.

    This was the ultimate art of the sword!

    In the eyes of those watching, Yun Xiao was no longer merely wielding a sword; he was ying with it. The Sword Soul beneath his feet seemed to have its own spirit, like a pet clinging to his legs, baring its fangs at the suppressed Golden Archemperor Beetle.

    The Sky Source Immortal had just lifted his head when Yun Xiao, riding the six-foot Sovereign Sword, crashed into his face.

    With a sh, the sword swept across, like a gxy passing through, carving a bloody furrow across the face and back of the Sky Source Immortal.

    With another sh, the fierce and brutal Golden Archemperor Beetle was cleaved into two halves, copsing thunderously. Throughout the ordeal, the Sky Source Immortal didn''t utter a sound before he parted ways with this worldpletely.

    His bisected body leaked golden fluid, reverting back to that of a withered old man. But now, faceless and spineless, even these two halves were riddled with holes, shattered beyond recognition.

    This moment was swift and graceful, captured within the Projection Orbs and etched in the hearts of the human cultivators and the Dreamsea Abalones. The Immortal Asylum was plunged into an extended period of dead silence.

    It wasn''t until Yun Xiao stood beside the shattered body of the Sky Source Immortal andughed that the silence was broken.

    "I finally understand why I was pleased when you brought out that Golden Archemperor Beetle form."

    Yun Xiao crouched down, gathering the treasures of the Sky Source Immortal, including the Gilded Dragon Maces, and added with a smile, "Because life without a worthy opponent is lonely."

 Chapter 482: Dreamsea Abalones Exterminated!

    Chapter 482: Dreamsea Abalones Exterminated!

    In the aftermath of the sh, every human cultivator and Dreamsea Abalone beheld the crumbling corpse of the Sky Source Immortal. A profound silence enveloped them, as words found no passage through their shock.

    It wasn''t until momentster that a thunderous roar of celebration burst from the ranks of the human cultivators.

    "Yun Xiao..." Even Shen Cang and Dean Yu, leading figures of the Primordial Ruins, found themselves with eyes brimming with tears, their hearts stirred to their depths.

    "In mere days upon ascending to the Primordial Ruins, he slew both the Mystic Earth Immortal and the Sky Source Immortal!"

    Doubts about his sub-par cultivation were now rendered meaningless.

    "With the fall of these two Immortals, the inhabitants of the Primordial Ruins willrgely be freed, and the myriad worlds of humanity can dare to hope again!" Dean Yu whispered, her eyes moist with tears.

    With the Sky Source Immortal gone, and only the Human Zenith Sword Immortal remaining, fear had lost its grip.

    "A miracle! A divine being!" Feng Qingcongughed. "Lian Xi, that girl, indeed has an eye for talent."

    "Thisd was brought to the academy by me. The moment Iid eyes on him, I knew he was extraordinary!" Yun Daheughed heartily, patting his bald head.Facing an enemy nine times their strength, Yun Xiao led them to carve a path to victory. In the aftermath, gasping for breath, they erupted intoughter, their eyes gleaming with respect and tears.

    The Dreamsea Abalones, in contrast, wept tears of a different kind. In their desperation to curry favor with Yun Xiao, the remaining injured transformed into human forms, kneeling before him in the guise of beauties, their tears inducing sympathy.

    "Exalted Yun..." The Mirage Immortal knelt before Yun Xiao, grasping at the hem of his trousers with a feminine voice and pleading posture, "It was the vile and brutal Sky Source Immortal, wielding his heavenly influence, who forced us against you. We did not harm any of your human allies today. We beg you to show mercy and spare our lineage."

    "You mean to say, I should thank you for not seeding in killing any of us?" Yun Xiao looked down upon the Mirage Immortal.

    Even with just a glimpse of his eyes, the dense aura of demonic fierceness around him was utterly terrifying.

    "We dare not! We were wrong!" The Mirage Immortal sobbed, prostrating himself, "We Dreamsea Abalones wish to serve under you for all eternity, forever holding you in the highest esteem."

    "Are you certain?" Yun Xiao arched an eyebrow.

    "Utterly certain!" The Mirage Immortal saw a glimmer of hope, his voice tender with earnestness.

    "So, you''ll serve as my Sword Ring first."

    As Yun Xiao''s words faded, he thrust forward his three-foot azure de, piercing straight through the heart of the Mirage Immortal.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yun, Exalted Yun..." The Mirage Immortal''s hands trembled as they grasped the sword in front of him, his eyes filled with despair as he looked up at Yun Xiao.

    Before this moment, Dean Yu and the others felt a pang of nervousness at the Mirage Immortal''s plea for mercy.

    After all, Yun Xiao was wreathed in an almost tangible demonic aura. But his swift action to execute the Mirage Immortal without a second thought scattered their fears like chaff in the wind.

    Yun Xiao twisted his sword, shredding the Mirage Immortal''s heart into tatters. He then looked up to Dean Yu and Shen Cang andmanded, "ughter all of them. Turn them into Blood Crystal Sword Rings."

    "At once!" The 200 human cultivators, their minds ame with fervor and hearts surging with a tempest of martial zeal, immediately charged into battle against the kneeling Dreamsea Abalones.

    "Why... Why do you exterminate demons when you yourself are engulfed in demonic miasma?" the Mirage Immortal gasped, his life fading, his despair palpable.

    "What constitutes my body is of no consequence," Yun Xiao replied as he ignited his demonic essence, burning it as he spoke. "What matters is you chose to be my enemy."

    Choices at the outset mattered greatly!

    "So, you don''t fight for humanity; you''re just selfish..." In his final moments, the Mirage Immortal''s face rxed considerably, even managing a slight smile. He died enlightened! This answer¡­ it convinced him.

    Yun Xiao, expressionless, turned the Mirage Immortal into a Blood Crystal Sword Ring.

    The Mirage Immortal was close to the realm of True Immortals, a formidable being in his own right.

    With a snap, Yun Xiao affixed him to the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, then transformed the Sword Soul back into a Flying Sword, casting it towards the fleeing Dreamsea Abalones with a flick of his wrist.

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! WHOOSH!</em>

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>As a yer immune to illusions, Yun Xiao reduced the effectivebat power of the Dreamsea Abalones by more than two thirds. Once they could no longer ensnare the human cultivators in their illusions, their extermination was merely a matter of time.

    In the cramped confines of the Immortal Asylum, originally meant to trap Yun Xiao, the tables had turned disastrously on them.

    "Kill!" Yun Xiao''s eyes glinted with cold light, his figure flickering through the darkness. His swordsmanship was ever-changing, iming countless souls beneath its edge!

    "He''s ruthless."

    "A talent ripe for shaping."

    "Even the Nian sumbed to his appetite."

    "He carries himself with pride, a trait we could exploit and deceive."

    "Shall we choose him then?"

    "It all depends on the will of the one in the eighteenth level."

    Beneath the Immortal Asylum, in the unfathomable depths of the earth, ancient voices echoed invisibly through time.

    Of course, such whispers never reached Yun Xiao''s ears.

    His eradication of the Dreamsea Abalones was a mere whim.

    His Flying Sword, swifter than the desperate escapes of the Dreamsea Abalones, impaled each just as they frantically reached the gates of the Immortal Asylum. Their hearts pierced, they fell, tears staining the ground.

    Fear was etched deeply onto the faces of these demons, once sovereigns of the Oblivion Demon Sea.

    "Exalted Yun, in all my life, I''ve harmed no one..."

    <em>THUD! </em>Thest of the Dreamsea Abalone beauties stared nkly at Yun Xiao before copsing into a pool of blood.

    "Whether you''ve harmed anyone or not is irrelevant to me. By standing against me, you''ve sealed your fate," Yun Xiao said, his tone even.

    "Do you truly believe that?" Blue Star suddenly asked, curious.

    "You''d prefer I did," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Tsk...!"

    "Our bro is actually sharp-tongued but soft-hearted like tofu." Red Moon chuckled.

    "Why tofu?"

    "Well, I suddenly have a craving for tofu," Red Moon said, a hint of bashfulness in his voice.

    "There''s no milk in tofu, though."

    "Squeeze it hard enough, and there will be," Red Moon insisted.

    "..." Yun Xiao was left speechless...

    Havingid waste to the Immortal Asylum, Yun Xiao paused to nce back, finding the ground awash with blood. Beneath the purifying mes, the Dreamsea Abalones had all been transformed into Sword Rings. Their possessions nowy in the hands of the human cultivators.

    "Here are all the cultivation resources the Dreamsea Abalones carried with them," Dean Yu said, presenting several Bags of Holding.

    "They''re yours," Yun Xiao offered with a smile.

    "Ours?" Dean Yu pressed her lips together, a touch of embarrassment in her voice. "To be honest, we contributed little to today''s victory. We nearly hindered you."

    "You all took poison to shield against illusions, earning my respect. Compared to an anomaly like me, the world needs people like you who, even in the face of certain death, strive to protect justice," Yun Xiao said, his gaze soft.

    Dean Yu and the others were taken aback by his words.

    "Do we truly matter?" Shen Cang said with a bitter smile.

    "Seniors, the world needs more of you for true fairness and justice. Alone, I can change only so much; it ultimately rests with you and how you educate and inspire the next generation," Yun Xiao replied respectfully.

    Dean Yu and her peers exchanged looks, their eyes shining a bit brighter with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

    "Then, we''ll ept them," Dean Yu said, her smile gentle as she looked at Yun Xiao, as if there were more she wished to say.

    "What''s on your mind?" Yun Xiao asked suddenly.

    Dean Yu''s gaze softened as she looked at him. "Lian Xi speaks highly of you. She''s right. Though you''re aw unto yourself, acting without restraint, you have the heart of a pure child. You''ll never go wrong."

    "And who is wrong?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "The world is," Dean Yu replied.

    Yun Xiao inhaled softly, his mind swirling with thoughts.

    "Let''s head back," Yun Xiao said.

    The group gathered their belongings and stepped out through the Radiance Gate.

    As he reached the threshold, Yun Xiao looked back at the depths of the Immortal Asylum.

    "What is it?" Blue Star asked, noticing his solemn expression.

    "I can''t shake the feeling that many eyes are watching me," Yun Xiao said.

    "The Nian on the first level had some tricks; I don''t doubt the prisoners in the 17 levels below must hold more," Blue Starmented.

    "When can I take it with me?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "I''m afraid that depends on whether the Immortal Asylum agrees," Blue Star replied.

    "So, whether it''s the Sky Source Immortal or the Dreamsea Abalones, aspiring to possess the Immortal Asylum is nothing but a fool''s dream." Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Exactly!" Blue Star''s eyes gleamed with mischief. "However, the forces behind the Sky Source Immortal might also covet the Immortal Asylum. Perhaps they possess the means to take it away?"

    Yun Xiao nced outside, sighing. "I''m not worried about them stealing the Immortal Asylum. I''m more concerned about their actions affecting the Nine Hells, or worse, causing the copse of the Heavenly Realm and the Divine Continent."

    "Missing your Senior Sister Zhao?" Blue Star teased.

    At the mention of her, a contented smile spread across Yun Xiao''s face, his expression that of an innocent child. "Yes, I miss her."

    After leaving the Immortal Asylum, Yun Xiao told Dean Yu, "You all head back. I have a small matter to attend to and will follow shortly."

    "Are you going to dispel this form of yours?" Dean Yu asked softly, her intelligence shining through in her guess.

    Seeing Yun Xiao nod, she spoke softly, "Go then. We don''t know if the Arbiter Immortal is friend or foe; don''t let him see the demonic blood in you."

    After speaking, she nced at the other human powerhouses and added, "I''ll remind them not to speak carelessly."

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded.

    Their conversation had significantly bridged the gap between Yun Xiao and her. He acknowledged her worth, and in turn, she almost regarded him as she did Lian Xi.

    After parting ways with them, Yun Xiao visited the <em>resting ce</em> of the War Princess.

    By this time, Moon Fairy had already left his body.

    "What in the world are you?" the Nian demanded, eyeing him suspiciously.

    Yun Xiao ignored it as Moon Fairy vanished into the darkness.

    Having gained much from the Sky Source Immortal and the Dreamsea Abalones, Moon Fairy''s cultivation likely rose to just below that of a True Immortal.

    Yun Xiao unearthed a crystal coffin. Within, the War Princess was breathtaking even in death, her pallor not dimming the allure of her fiery figure.

    "Alright time to wake up this <em>Sleeping Beauty</em>." Yun Xiao shook his head with a smile.

    As he spoke, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood flowed out from him and gradually infused itself back into the body of the War Princess. With the return of the Blood Base, her body slowly regained its vibrant, lush vitality.

    "Wake up, my princess," Yun Xiao whispered softly.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 483: My Husband is Yun Xiao

    Chapter 483: My Husband is Yun Xiao

    The War Princess suddenly opened her eyes wide, a spark of excitement in her gaze as she looked at Yun Xiao and asked, "What did you just call me?"

    "Blood ve," Yun Xiao coughed out.

    "No, you called me princess!" the War Princess insisted.

    "Does it matter?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Of course, it matters!" Her lips pursed in a mock pout, she gazed at him with a haunting mncholy.

    "Alright then." Yun Xiao allowed a slight smile, "Seeing as you''ve been quite the herotely, and well-behaved at that, I suppose I should indulge you more often."

    "Really?" Her eyes lit up.

    "Truly." Yun Xiao nodded.

    The War Princess stared deep into his eyes, suddenly biting her lip before asking, "Can I have a hug?""Oh? Have I won your heart? Then you''re too easy," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Ha! As if a dog could ever spit ivory. Forget the hug!" The War Princess snorted.

    As her words fell, Yun Xiao reached out and pulled her into his embrace, enveloping herpletely.

    The War Princess trembled, her skin flushing a deep red. She turned her head aside and asked softly, "How does it feel?"

    Yun Xiao, slightly out of breath, looked into the dazzling white light before him and said, "Actually, the height is just right..."

    "Hmph." The War Princess pulled away from his grasp, turning and sashaying away.

    "Where are you going? I need you at all times," Yun Xiao called after her.

    "I rarelye back. I should at least see my father and uncles!" she called back over her shoulder.

    "Alright, go then," Yun Xiao nodded.

    The War Princess said, "Don''t worry, I can never escape the palm of your hand, can I?"

    "Is that so bad?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Who knows, I only know one thing," she pouted.

    "What''s that?"

    She nced at the crystal coffin and spoke with a dim look, "Lying in that coffin feels awful, like passing in and out of the gates of death."

    "Oh¡­" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "But there''s one good thing," she looked up earnestly.

    "What''s that?"

    "You''re not as heartless as I imagined."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Within a secluded courtyard in a city in the Nine Hells, a delicate girl with skin fairer than snow sat on a rooftop, her gazeden with worry as she looked towards the Immortal Asylum. She cradled a small white tiger in her arms, which was grumbling incessantly, though she paid it no mind.

    Suddenly, a noise stirred from below. The white tiger''s fur bristled, alert as it spoke, "That sound came from the Arbiter Immortal."

    "I''ll check it out." Lian Xi leapt gracefully from the roof and gently pushed open the door below. Inside, on a wooden bed,y a man d in tinum armor, the dark mists around him now dissipating.

    He stilly there but had opened his eyes, looking bewildered at his surroundings.

    "Have you awakened, sir?" Lian Xi stood by, not daring toe too close. She nced briefly, noting his frail condition.

    The man struggled to turn his neck, his eyes trembling as he saw Lian Xi. He asked in a quivering voice, "Where am I?"

    "The Nine Hells," Lian Xi nodded.

    "The Nine Hells?" The confusion in his eyes deepened, and his face soured, "Is it the mortal realm? Surrounded by myriad worlds, governed by a divine ark endowed with a Celestial Sourcecore."

    "Yes," Lian Xi said, observing him closely.

    Hearing this, the man shuddered, his eyes dimming as he bitterly smiled, "I am doomed, utterly doomed. To have mistakenly entered the Blue Star Mortal Realm..."

    "Sir, you''re already almost recovered; you''re not doomed," Lian Xi reassured him.

    "Even if I''m fully healed, it is of no use," he replied, his eyes filled with sorrow.

    "Why?" Lian Xi probed.

    With a sigh of despair, he exined, "The heavenlyws of the Great Dao Celestial Realm decree that an Immortal entering the mortal realm uninvited is a capital offense, punishable by beheading."

    "So severe?" Lian Xi''s brows furrowed. And what then of the Three Immortals?

    She said, "Surely, if your entry was idental, you must be exempt from punishment?"

    "There is no such thing as an idental entry. Bying here, I have already tainted my Immortal armor with the spiritual energy of the mortal realm. There is no hope left."

    As he murmured to himself, the Arbiter Immortaly back and, against his stoic nature, tears began to fall. Clearly, he harbored deep attachments.

    "But what if one were to atone by rendering a great service?" Lian Xi suddenly suggested.

    "Atone by service?" the Arbiter Immortal paused, surprised.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "In this mortal realm you find yourself, the human race is suffering a great cmity. There are three beings who im to be True Immortals wreaking havoc using Gu."

    Lian Xi was unsure of the situation in the Immortal Asylum, so she had to probe the Arbiter Immortal herself.

    "A cmity? borate," he furrowed his brow.

    She exined the matter of the Three Immortals as best she could, choosing her words carefully.

    "If you, sir, were to cleanse this realm of these malevolent beings, might the Celestial Court show leniency?" Lian Xi asked softly.

    "This is a cmity of the highest order! Investigating such disasters is indeed our duty!" The Arbiter Immortal¡¯s face lit up with excitement, and he even tried to sit up, "If I could resolve this and report it to the Celestial Court, I might indeed be granted clemency!"

    Hearing this, Lian Xi breathed a sigh of relief.

    At least it suggested that this Arbiter Immortal was likely on their side.

    "Youngdy." His gaze grew fervent with newfound hope, and he looked at Lian Xi and asked, "What is your name?"

    "Lian Xi."

    "Ah. I am Lu, Lu An," the Arbiter Immortal said.

    "I see, I''ll call you Arbiter Lu." Lian Xi nodded.

    Arbiter Lu surveyed her, a puzzled look crossing his face. "Your demeanor rivals many Immortal maidens of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, yet why do I feel I''ve seen you before?"

    "Familiar?" Lian Xi shook her head, "You''re joking, sir. I have never been to the Great Dao Celestial Realm."

    "You''ve certainly never been. With the celestial barrier, only through breaking it can mortals ascend to the realm of the Immortals," Arbiter Lu chuckled.

    Recalling past events, he then continued, "Was it you who saved me?"

    "Not me. It was my husband, Yun Xiao," Lian Xi earnestly replied.

    "Your husband?" Arbiter Lu paused, surprised. "At your age, merely 14 or 15, to already have a Dao Partner?"

    "People marry young in the mortal world," Lian Xi exined.

    "I suppose¡­" Arbiter Lu didn''t dwell on it further but asked, "Is your husband here? I wish to know if my Skyruler Sword Vessel is still intact."

    "My husband is out but should return shortly," Lian Xi paused, "As for the Skyruler Sword Vessel, it exploded when he rescued you."

    "Exploded?" Arbiter Lu sighed deeply, then asked, "You mean your husband broke open the Skyruler Sword Vessel to rescue me?"

    "Yes. And it was him who drove out the Gu from your body," Lian Xi said.

    "Your husband must be quite formidable, likely one of the top Yang Immortals of this mortal realm. He must be much older than you," Lu remarked with admiration.

    "He''s 16," Lian Xi stated.

    Arbiter Lu was taken aback.

    Just then, voices from outside reached them, sounding quite joyful.

    "They must be back," Lian Xi looked outside anxiously.

    She was still uncertain of their safety.

    Arbiter Lu also looked out, nodding. "Well then, let¡¯s go meet this 16-year-old prodigy of a husband of yours."

 Chapter 484: Lu Yao

    Chapter 484: Lu Yao

    "Yun Xiao, Master!!"

    Yun Xiao had regrouped with Dean Yu and the others before returning to the city.

    As soon as the group touched down, Lian Xi hurried to greet them, finally letting out a sigh of relief as she saw all of them safe.

    "What about the Sky Source Immortal..." Lian Xi was about to inquire when Yun Xiao, with a slight smile, said, "He''s dead."

    "Oh, oh." Hearing this splendid news, her face lit up with joy. "That''s wonderful, truly wonderful."

    "Master, you''re all hurt..." Seeing their blood-stained robes, her heart ached.

    "Compared to a life of suffering, these wounds are nothing," Dean Yuforted her, then asked, "How is the Arbiter Immortal?"

    "He''s awake!" Lian Xi quickly responded.

    "Awake?" Yun Xiao and the others exchanged nces, then asked, "How is he?""He''s still dealing with the Gu infection, but his mind is clear. I''ve spoken to him briefly about the matter of the Three Immortals," Lian Xi exined.

    "What did you tell him?" Dean Yu asked.

    Lian Xi recounted the details.

    "So, this Arbiter Lu, he wants to see me?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "He''s in the room, waiting for you," Lian Xi said, pointing to a distant chamber behind her.

    "Let¡¯s go meet the Arbiter Immortal together," Yun Xiao suggested, turning back to the others. "I''ll do the talking; just listen for now and hold your tongues."

    "Understood!" They nodded in agreement.

    It was still uncertain what the Arbiter Immortal would bring, so having one speak and keep the message unified was crucial.

    After agreeing on this, Yun Xiao and the group approached the door, where the others waited outside while he knocked and announced, "Arbiter Immortal, I seek an audience."

    "Enter," a robust and resonant voice called from inside.

    Yun Xiao pushed the door open and approached the wooden bed.

    The man in the tinum Immortal armor was propped against the bedpost, sizing him up.

    Arbiter Lu chuckled, admiringly remarking, "A youth as radiant as jade, with a countenance divine by nature. You possess a beauty I''ve never seen, even in the heavens."

    "The path to Immortality is vast; all beauty turns to dust. External appearances are insignificant," Yun Xiao replied.

    "That sounds well and good, but if your delicate wife were as ugly as a ghoul, would you still have married her?" Arbiter Lu teased,fortable and unpretentious in his manner.

    "Delicate wife?" Yun Xiao knew exactly whom he referred to. Had the girl been introducing herself so forwardly in front of others?

    As they spoke, Arbiter Lu gradually sobered up, his expression turning quizzical. "It''s odd, though. You are young and true, yetcking the power of a True Immortal. How did you manage to y one?"

    "It was with the aid of many seniors," Yun Xiao said.

    "And prying open the Skysruler Sword Vessel?" Arbiter Lu asked.

    "That vessel was nearly shattered. It took no great effort," Yun Xiao earnestly exined.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "It seems I was mistaken then, thinking a prodigious Immortal talent had emerged in this mortal realm," Arbiter Lu said with a shake of his head and a smile.

    Yun Xiao nodded and smiled briefly, choosing not to borate.

    "Don''t mind it. Both you and Lian Xi havemendable talents," Arbiter Luforted.

    "We are but dull in understanding; outstanding in the mortal dust yet negligible against the heavens," Yun Xiao said.

    "Don''t be too modest," Arbiter Lu shifted his position forfort and then asked, "It looks like you''re faring well. Did you win this battle? That Sky Source Immortal..."

    "Is dead," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Who killed him?" Lu asked.

    "Together with the Dreamsea Abalones, we struck him down," Yun Xiao said.

    Arbiter Lu pursed his lips, speaking seriously, "In the heavenlyws, conspiring with demons is a sin."

    "When all worlds suffer and themon folk are tormented, this was the only path left," Yun Xiao dered.

    "I understand." Arbiter Lu nodded, "I won''t pursue this matter. But if the Dreamsea Abalonesmit harmful deeds in the future, you must distance yourself from them, lest you also face annihtion."

    "Arbiter Lu, the Dreamsea Abalones can no longer harm anyone," Yun Xiao looked up and said.

    "Why?"

    "During the battle against the Sky Source Immortal, the entire Dreamsea Abalone n perished valiantly," Yun Xiao revealed.

    Arbiter Lu was stunned, staring at Yun Xiao for a long time before asking, "You came through unscathed, and they all perished?"

    Yun Xiao touched his head and said, "I wouldn''t say we came out unscathed; everyone got some injuries."

    Arbiter Lu looked at Yun Xiao with an odd expression.

    After a while, he pursed his lips and said, "Remember, when demons die, say they died well, not <em>perished valiantly</em>."

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "So, with the chaos in the myriad worlds, only the Human Zenith Immortal and the weakened Celestial Sourcecore remain?" Arbiter Lu inquired.

    "Yes."

    "Leave those two to me. You all rest." Arbiter Lu patted his chest with a grand gesture.

    Yun Xiao was about to speak when Arbiter Lu gave him a stern look and said, "Don''t think about taking the credit; I''m counting on this to atone and regain my honor in the Celestial Court."

    Through this exchange, Yun Xiao gained a deeper understanding of Arbiter Lu.

    "What I wanted to say is, you still have Gu wreaking havoc in your body. To resolve the worries of the human realm, you''ll need a healthy body," Yun Xiao said.

    "I''m counting on you then. Yun Xiao, you are my lifesaver, and I, Lu An, will repay you. But first, tell me, do you have any wishes?" Arbiter Lu asked.

    "Besides ascending by breaking through the barrier, can I visit the Great Dao Celestial Realm early?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Ah!" Arbiter Lu gave a wry smile and shook his head, "Taking a mortal to the Celestial Court privately is also a vition of the heavenlyws."

    "Are there no mortals in the Celestial Court?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "Yes, but you have to imagine what sort of backgrounds they have." Arbiter Lu replied with augh.

    "Understood," Yun Xiao paused, "I''ll start by removing the Gu."

    "Go ahead! Let me see how you manage it," Arbiter Lu said, curious about his methods.

    Yun Xiao gave a tight-lipped smile and pulled out the Prison Warden Sigil, cing it directly on Arbiter Lu''s chest.

    "Your Runes..." Lu stared.

    "What about them?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "They''re too damn many!" Arbiter Lu eximed.

    "It''s all thanks to the generosity and training of my seniors," Yun Xiao gestured towards Dean Yu and the others outside.

    "They are a group of loyal and brave souls. It''s because of people like you that there is hope for this world," Arbiter Lu remarked.

    He spoke these words, then suddenly his eyes widened again.

    Arbiter Lu looked down at his chest as Yun Xiao worked with the Prison Warden Sigil, pulling out bloodied and grotesque flesh worms one by one.

    "Viscera Devouring Gu!" Arbiter Lu gritted his teeth.

    "What is it?"

    "A type of venomous insect forbidden by the heavenlyws for its malevolence," Arbiter Lu''s expression shifted darkly.

    "Do you know who harmed you?" Yun Xiao asked while focusing on the sigil.

    Arbiter Lu shook his head. "I was on a mission, passing through the barrier of this mortal realm when I was ambushed. I have no idea who attacked, and to use such a vile creature!"

    He didn''t even know who had harmed him?

    Yun Xiao was slightly taken aback.

    "Could it have been the Human Zenith Immortal?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Him? Impossible," Arbiter Lu dismissed the idea.

    "Why?"

    "From your description, he sounds like a nefarious Immortal wreaking havoc in the mortal realm, not one to make an appearance in serious matters. He wouldn''t even be able to breach the Skyruler Sword Vessel," Arbiter Lu exined.

    "Then it must have been an enemy of yours from the Celestial Court," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "Possibly," Arbiter Lu''s gaze turned frosty. "Over the years, I''ve investigated many cases, making enemies of numerous Immortals. It''s quite normal for me to be targeted for revenge."

    "Truly you fit our image of a merciful celestial being," Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Too kind! I''m but a toiling lesser Immortal." Arbiter Lu shook his head and chuckled.

    Yun Xiao and he exchanged a look, and after a moment of contemtion, Yun Xiao suddenly said, "We need to deal with the Human Zenith Immortal next, please be cautious."

    "Why do you say that?" Lu asked.

    "ording to what the Sky Source Immortal revealed, those three might have connections in the Celestial Court," Yun Xiao exined.

    "That''s unlikely. The heavenlyws are clear¡ªpoisoning the mortal realm is a grave sin for an Immortal. Even serving as a protector for evildoers would obliterate one''s Immortal foundation, relegating their next life to that of a pig or a dog. The risk is too great for such little gain; no Immortal would do it," Arbiter Lu rified.

    "What if there is something in the mortal realm they desire?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "What could possibly be in the mortal realm that would be of use to an Immortal?" Arbiter Luughed incredulously.

    Arbiter Lu was not particrly sensitive to the topic of the Immortal Asylum, so Yun Xiao chose not to dwell on it further.

    Moreover, with the Three Immortals poisoning themon folk before the exposure of the Immortal Asylum, it was clear that if they had any backing, it initially had nothing to do with the Asylum.

    Nheless, he felt a reminder was due.

    About half a dayter, Yun Xiao hadpletely extracted the Viscera Devouring Gu from Arbiter Lu¡¯s body.

    Only then did Arbiter Lu''splexion begin to return to normal, and his spirit seemed to rejuvenate.

    "I will need to recuperate for a day; please wait," Arbiter Lu stated.

    Given such severe injuries, his confidence in recovering within a day was a testament to his status as a True Immortal.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Thank you. You''ve essentially saved me twice. I will find a way to help you reach the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Arbiter Lu said earnestly.

    "No, I should be thanking you for saving our myriad worlds," Yun Xiao responded with a smile.

    Arbiter Lu studied him more intently, then suddenly remarked with a touch of emotion, "Honestly, my brother might not be as handsome as you, but you do bear some resemnce to him."

    "To resemble an Immortal is my fortune," Yun Xiao said.

    "Ah." Arbiter Lu shook his head, his eyes dimming, "An Immortal? He dreamed of bing an Arbiter Immortal, but s..."

    "What happened?" Yun Xiao looked at him.

    Arbiter Lu clenched his teeth, "After years of arduous training, just as he was about to achieve his dream, he disappeared during the examination period. It has been ten years with no word."

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao quickly added, "He must still be alive."

    Arbiter Lu gave a wry smile and shook his head.

    His expression conveyed to Yun Xiao that the likelihood of his brother being alive was incredibly slim.

    "Wait." Arbiter Lu suddenly pulled out a cosmos bag and from it, he retrieved a thick sketchbook, saying, "My brother loved to paint. This is his self-portrait; see if you think it looks like you?"

    Yun Xiao took the sketchbook, and at first nce, he saw the bold, flowing script of tworge characters¡ªLu Yao.

    The elegant brushwork suggested its owner was also a person of free spirit.

    Looking closely at the self-portrait, it depicted a smiling young man in white, standing amidst flowers, holding an azure sword, like a Sword Immortal descended to earth.

    "It does resemble me quite a bit," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Doesn''t it?" Arbiter Lu said with a hint of wistfulness.

    "Hey, who knows? Maybe I am your long-lost brother," Yun Xiao cracked a joke.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 485: Changes in the Primordial Ruins!

    Chapter 485: Changes in the Primordial Ruins!

    "Pfft. Quit the nonsense. When he disappeared, you were only six years old." Punisher Lu smirked.

    Yun Xiaoughed. He flipped through the thick sketchbook he was holding, and soon his eyesnded on a series of breathtaking paintings of magnificent and spectacr worlds. Each image seized the heart with its beauty.

    "What are these paintings of?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Great Dao Celestial Realm," Punisher Lu exined, pointing at the images. "This is the Thunder Ministry''s Mansion, this is the Battle Ministry''s Sun Pce, and this is the Divine Gate..."

    "How magnificent," Yun Xiao remarked, his eyes filled with a boundless yearning.

    "Don''t worry, with your talents, you''re destined to break through and ascend," Punisher Lu encouraged him.

    "I hope so," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Speaking of which, it''s been a long while since anyone from the Blue Star Mortal Realm has ascended to true immortality. Maybe you''ll be the one everyone watches," Punisher Lu said with a chuckle.

    Yun Xiao smiled, then asked, "May I borrow this sketchbook to study it for a while?""That¡¯s fine," Punisher Lu paused, "but thetter half contains my brother''s diary, don''t read that."

    "I understand, I''ll respect his privacy." Yun Xiao nodded. With that, he took the album and left first.

    Meanwhile Punisher Lu closed himself off to recover. When he was suffering from the Viscera Devouring Gu, it was like he''d been poisoned. But now that the <em>toxin</em> was cleared, his body visibly began to recover at a remarkable speed.

    In about half a day, Punisher Lu emerged, vibrant and full of life. He adjusted his tinum armor and said to the waiting crowd, "Lead the way. I am off to the Primordial Ruins to rid the people of this scourge."

    "Yes!"

    Yun Xiao, Lian Xi, and Dean Yu were all present.

    "This is a Pursuit Mirror, distribute these, and by activating it with immortal energy, it can record visuals and gather evidence for me," Punisher Lu handed out ruler-shaped magical treasures to everyone.

    These devices were simr to Projection Orbs but clearly superior in function, providing clearer images and even recording sound.

    "Let''s set out!"

    After distribution, they all ascended to the sky.

    The issue with the Nine Hells was resolved, leaving only the Primordial Ruins.

    "Upon this ruin, about two-thirds of the people have recovered. As for the remaining third, make sure you record their every word and action before I confront the Human Zenith Immortal. I¡¯ll need this evidence when I report back to the Celestial Court," Punisher Lu reminded them again.

    It was clear he was a man of many words. But indeed, he was a good man, like an older brother. Yun Xiao had been quite wary of him before.

    "Make sure everything about the Celestial Sourecore is well documented. Once I report back, I expect we''ll be able to secure a new one for you all, so everyone can rest easy," Punisher Lu said with a smile.

    "Thank you, Punisher Lu!"

    Yun Xiao had not shared with everyone that he''d found a Celestial Sourcecore in the Blood Devil Ruins. And so, Punisher Lu''s words brought a true glimmer of hope to the people.

    Everyone was thrilled! With the death of the Sky Source Immortal, and the thought of many being freed, their spirits lifted considerably.

    "The Primordial Ruins are just ahead!"

    The party returned in glory!

    Yun Xiao too wore a smile, but as he looked towards the Primordial Ruins, a sense of foreboding crept into his heart.

    Looking ahead, the Primordial Ruins were engulfed in a vortex of Heavenly Decay, making it impossible to see the structure itself. Surrounding it, a vast storm was brewing, with countless dream-like voices faintly audible.

    "Has the decay from the Celestial Sourcecore grown so strong already? We don''t have much time left¡­" Punisher Lu remarked.

    "Those two-thirds who are awake inside must be suffering. We need to find a way to evacuate them first," Dean Yu suggested.

    "Alright, I''ll leave that to you," Punisher Lu nodded.

    "As long as they regain consciousness, there''s still a chance for them, it''s just going to be tough for a while," Shen Cang added.

    They talked as they descended from the sky and plunged into the storm of decaying force.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Before long, the fog-shrouded Primordial Ruins gradually came into view.

    "Hmm?"

    The group had justnded near the Jade Immortal Tower, and everyone, including Yun Xiao, suddenly looked rmed.

    "What''s going on?"

    Yun Xiao frowned deeply! He looked around and saw that the area near the Jade Immortal Tower was crowded with people.

    They were all sitting on the ground, eyes wide open, bloodshot, nearly everyone was silently chanting the mantra of the Three Immortals and practicing the Ascension Technique!

    It was normal for some to be practicing the Ascension Technique.

    But for everyone, without exception, to be practicing was definitely not normal!

    What was more suffocating was that all the practitioners before them had their eyes dripping with blood, with worms crawling within them¡ªclearly showing they were all afflicted with the All Life Devouring Gu!

    "You all said that with the Sky Source Immortal''s death, two-thirds of the people would be freed. Howe they''re all afflicted now?" Punisher Lu frowned deeply and asked in a stern voice.

    "I don''t know..." Dean Yu shook her head, then looked towards Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao had already taken flight. The others had no choice but to follow.

    Soon, Yun Xiao reached the Mystic Zenith Temple at the Primordial Academy.

    In the main square of the Mystic Zenith Temple, over 100,000 people were gathered, mostly young ones.

    Without exception, their eyes were bloodshot, their fervor reaching the skies as they practiced their cultivation frically!

    "Yue Molin?" Yun Xiao grabbed a child.

    "Three Immortals, Three Immortals, boundless fortune!" Yue Moelinughed maniacally.

    "Lil Xiu..." Yun Xiao turned to another girl.

    "Human Zenith Sword Immortal, boundless joy!" Lil Xiu chirped cheerfully.

    The blood in their eyes told Yun Xiao that all were ensnared.

    "Impossible! The Human Zenith Sword Immortal is the weakest of the Three Immortals. It took them hundreds of years to gather so many followers. It''s impossible that with two gone, their influence has still intensified," Shen Cang gritted his teeth.

    "Are you suggesting that someone new has joined? Someone who helped him?" Yun Xiao asked coldly.

    Punisher Lu nced at the condition of the people, then looked up toward the direction where the faith in the Three Immortals was concentrated.

    "Where is that?" Punisher Lu asked.

    "The Human Zenith Ruins," Yun Xiao replied.

    "That''s where the answers are," Punisher Lu dered.

    "Right!" Everyone nodded.

    Punisher Lu swept his gaze over the group. "Spread out and follow closely. Take out the Pursuit Mirrors and record everything. No matter what happens, do not interfere."

    The group exchanged looks, finally nodding in agreement.

    "First and foremost, you must protect yourselves. There''s hope for the mortal realm only if you survive. If you die, everything ends, and there will be no one left to report back. Understand?" Punisher Lu said gravely.

    "Understood!"

    With heavy hearts, they each took a Pursuit Mirror and silently dispersed.

    "Punisher Lu," Yun Xiao followed behind him and asked, "You''re very cautious. You''re also certain that the Three Immortals have support in the Celestial Court, right?"

    "Not just support, they''re probably already here," Punisher Lu replied, his gaze sharp as he looked towards the direction of the Human Zenith Immortal.

    "Can you guess who it might be?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Punisher Lu suddenly moved toward the Human Zenith Immortal, leaving behind the words, "We''ll know once we get there."

    Yun Xiao looked ahead. The entire Primordial Ruins were swirling with malevolent energy, tens of millionsughing maniacally, chanting, the whole world plunged into an endless abyss.

    "This decay and malevolence carrying the All Life Devouring Gu must have already spread to the myriad worlds. The Nine Hells are the closest..."

    With this thought, a fierce anger burned within him.

 Chapter 486: A Heavenly Immortal Descends, Mortals Withdraw!

    Chapter 486: A Heavenly Immortal Descends, Mortals Withdraw!

    At themand of Punisher Lu, the human cultivators who had narrowly escaped disaster dispersed in secret, making their way towards the Human Zenith Ruins.

    As they traveled, the Pursuit Mirrors swept over the streets and the crazed faces of those they passed. There was no proof more conclusive than this!

    Only Yun Xiao, Lian Xi, Dean Yu, and Shen Cang followed Punisher Lu, approaching the Human Zenith Ruins first.

    Yun Xiao had been to this ce before. The first visit was to the Mysterious Sword Manor in the Human Zenith Ruins, which once teemed with people but nowy deste.

    The descendants of the Three Immortals had all been ughtered by the Nian!

    Just as they infiltrated the Human Zenith Ruins, their gaze pierced through the mist and delved deeper.

    "What is that?" Lian Xi asked in a hushed tone.

    In the depths of the Human Zenith Ruins, a hemispherical dome appeared, covering a vast area like a sprawling beast. The life force of the entire Primordial Ruins formed thick smoke, continuously flowing into this colossal dome.

    "An Immortal formation!" The closer Punisher Lu got, the deeper his frown became.This immense Immortal formation obstructed their view like a fortress.

    "Let''s get closer."

    They moved silently through the corridors and courtyards of Human Zenith Ruins.

    Behind them, the 200 Yin-Yang Immortals dispersed, stealthily infiltrating various parts of Human Zenith Ruins.

    "Peach blossoms?"

    As they drew nearer, Yun Xiao saw clearly¡ªthe hemispherical formation was pink, its surface covered with swirling peach blossoms.

    It was a sea of peach blossoms!

    The atmosphere of the entire ruins was mad and sinister, yet this formation, fluttering with peach blossoms, appeared as the sole sanctuary¡ªdreamy and elegant, a picturesque scene.

    "Such a wonderful peach blossom formation, yet fundamentally it''s a gaping maw devouring the lifespan of all living beings?" Yun Xiao''s expression turned icy, his gaze murderous.

    "Punisher Lu, do you recognize it?" Seeing Punisher Lu''s shaken demeanor, Dean Yu hurriedly asked.

    Punisher Lu shook his head, his expression grim. "There are too many in the heavens skilled in the Peach Sea Formation to be sure who it is, but..."

    "But what?" Yun Xiao and the others turned to him.

    "This is the formation of a Heavenly Officer; the user must hold a high position," Punisher Lu said through clenched teeth.

    He halted everyone, staring deeply at the Peach Sea Formation, his expression fluctuating.

    "Forgive my boldness in asking... could the master of this Peach Sea Formation be more powerful than you?" Yun Xiao whispered.

    Punisher Lu nodded, "It''s quite likely."

    Hearing this answer, the confidence they had felt up until now skipped a beat. The situation was far too urgent!

    "Let''s not rush; first, we gather evidence!" Punisher Lu said coldly, eyeing the Peach Sea Formation. "As a Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court, descending to the mortal realm without permission is already a capital offense. Moreover, aiding evil Immortals in tormenting the living¡ªit''s a crime deserving a thousand deaths! Thes of the heavens are vast and miss nothing. Once I discover who is behind this and report it, he''ll find no escape from death!"

    "We need to devise a way to lure the master of this Peach Sea Formation out and record it with the Pursuit Mirror," Dean Yu nodded.

    "No worries, I''ll draw him out; you all keep recording," Punisher Lu said.

    "No, you can''t expose yourself. Otherwise, the opponent will surely annihte us," Yun Xiao cautioned earnestly.

    "Then who should it be? Now, this entire Primordial Ruins is filled with those afflicted by the Gu; anyone used as bait would hardly survive. We do not even know how many are inside; if we are not strong enough, we cannot lure the big fish," Punisher Lu whispered.

    "I am old; I will go," Shen Cang stood up without a second word, ready to meet his death.

    "Wait!" Yun Xiao stopped him and then looked deep into the clouds to the left, saying, "We need not sacrifice anyone; someone is already heading there."

    "Who?"

    Everyone looked in the direction Yun Xiao pointed. Emerging from the clouds was a silver-haired figure, gaunt with waist-length hair, wearing a long robe, barefoot and hovering, with six fox tails trailing behind and a pair of fox ears atop his head...

    "A fox demon?" Punisher Lu was surprised. "How does this fox demon possess the power of cmity?"

    The group exchanged nces, and finally all eyes turned to Yun Xiao, but no one answered, pretending ignorance.

    "Four eyes? This is a young great demon, nearly as powerful as a demon immortal. What lineage could it be?" Punisher Lu murmured to himself.

    This fox demon was clearly heading towards the Peach Sea Formation, and although puzzled, Punisher Lu did not stop him.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Moon Fairy, without a word, had already reached beneath the fluttering sea of peach blossoms.

    He conjured a ball of fierce white fire in his hand and hurled it towards the Peach Sea Formation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Many of the peach blossoms were set aze, the fire spreading and destroying the romantic semnce of this celestialndscape.

    "A Heavenly Immortal descends, all mortals withdraw!"

    No sooner had the fire spread when a cold yet youthful promation echoed from within the Peach Sea Formation.

    "Someone ising out!"

    Punisher Lu immediately aimed his Pursuit Mirror at the figure gradually emerging from the formation.

    Yun Xiao and the others did the same.

    "What creature dares disturb the peace of a heavenly Immortal''s meditation?"

    The voice, filled with discontent and anger, rang out once more.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>A boy d in a peach blossom robe stepped forward. He appeared to be about 12 or 13, his skin like polished jade, delicate as if carved from ivory. He held a jade vase in his hands, within which was tucked a peach branch.

    "A True Immortal?"

    Upon seeing him, Moon Fairy furrowed his brows and turned to flee into a mist of gold and silver.

    "Do not leave!"

    The peach blossom boy transformed into a storm, breaking through the turbulent winds and chasing after him, his bearing astonishing.

    "Mu Shuo, who is that?" At that moment, a cold,manding female voice emanated from within the Peach Sea Formation.

    "Just a little fox from the mortal realm," the peach blossom boy halted, turning back respectfully.

    "Return," the female voicemanded.

    "As youmand." The peach blossom boy, holding the vase respectfully, quickly returned to the formation.

    With that, everything reverted to how it had begun.

    "Punisher Lu, how goes it?" Yun Xiao recorded everything with the Pursuit Mirrors before turning to ask Punisher Lu.

    Turning around, he saw Punisher Lu had copsed to the ground, his face pale and covered in cold sweat, shaking his head repeatedly.

    "Punisher Lu?" The four of them exchanged bewildered looks.

    "It can''t be, it can''t be, how could it be her!" Punisher Lu murmured as if in a daze, disbelief etched across his face.

    "Is she a very powerful figure?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Give them to me! All of them!" Punisher Lu suddenly looked at them sternly.

    "What?"

    Before Yun Xiao could react, Punisher Lu had taken the Pursuit Mirrors from their hands and ordered, "Gather your people, bring all the Pursuit Mirrors to me, now, immediately!"

    His abnormal behavior sent a chill down Yun Xiao''s spine.

    "Punisher Lu, what do you mean?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I cannot handle this person. I must return to Celestial Court immediately, report to the Bureau of Heavenly Affairs to dispatch a squad of Punisher Immortals to apprehend her and bring her to justice. Give me all the evidence, the more the better," Punisher Lu said gravely.

    "How long will this back and forth take?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Rest assured!" Punisher Lu pped him on the shoulder, "At most three days. You help ensure that all living beings hold on for three more days! Within three days, we will arrive."

    "Three days..."

    The situation was so dire that every moment themon folk were losing life span¡ªit was an eleration towards death! But even Punisher Lu seemed fearful, leaving Yun Xiao with no other options.

    He had everyone hand over their Pursuit Mirrors, which he then passed to Punisher Lu.

    "Did you give them all? Did you keep any?" Punisher Lu asked.

    "None," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Then I''m off." Punisher Lu cast one more cold nce at the Peach Sea Formation. "I never expected such a high-born and respectable person to have such a low andwless side. Such actions will surely invite divine punishment!"

    With that, he turned and vanished into the mist, soon disappearing from sight.

    "Punisher Lu..." Yun Xiao muttered softly.

    What he wanted to say was that he hadn''t yet returned his brother Lu Yao''s sketchbook and diary.

    "Yun Xiao!" Dean Yu''s expression grew somber.

    "Let''s leave the Human Zenith Ruins first."

    Yun Xiao knew what she meant, but this ce was fraught with danger and was no ce to linger.

    They dispersed and left Human Zenith Ruins, emerging onto the streets outside.

    "Dean Yu, do you suspect that Punisher Lu, out of fear of the powerful figures behind the Three Immortals, took the Pursuit Mirrors and fled back to Celestial Court, nning to abandon us here?" Yun Xiao turned to ask as soon as they were out.

    "He was in such a rush and even took the Pursuit Mirrors... I think so too..." Lian Xi said with a worried tone.

    "I don''t know him well, nor do I understand the workings of the Celestial Court... so, it''s just a suspicion. Let''s hope Punisher Lu doesn''t let us down," Dean Yu sighed softly.

    "Indeed." Yun Xiao looked back towards the dreamlikend where peach blossoms scattered. "What Punisher Lu chooses to do is out of our control. If he really abandons us, then we''ll have to find every possible way to save ourselves."

    "The cmity is spreading across thousands of worlds, how do we save ourselves?" Shen Cang, after a long silence, finally spoke with a piercing gaze.

    "Another three days!" Yun Xiao took a deep breath and finally turned to look at Lian Xi.

    "There is no such thing as a dead end in the heavens; there must be a way!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    At this moment, the shadow looming over them wasrger than ever, casting a pall of gloom in their hearts.

    Walking through the streets of the Primordial Ruins, they witnessed a heart-wrenching sight: tens of millions of people fervently practicing the Ascension Technique in a desperate bid to save their diminishing lifespans¡ªan overwhelmingly tragic scene.

    As they left the Primordial Ruins, worse news was unfolding!

    The Heavenly Decay, carrying countless All Life Devouring Gu, had spilled out of the Primordial Ruins and first enveloped the Nine Hells below!

    When Yun Xiao and hispanions descended from the Primordial Ruins, they were shocked to find that the Nine Hells had fallen into the same dire straits. Each blessednd, city, and vige was enveloped in despair as the people experienced the decay for the first time!

    Their bodies, even slightly touched by the weakening force, experienced extreme agony.

    At this moment, the Ascension Technique imnted in their minds by the All Life Devouring Gu became their only hope for survival and relief!

    It was like a deadly poison spreading; within just an hour, the Nine Hells were swallowed by this intensified Immortal disaster. Every human, devil, and demon ceased their activities to meditate fervently, offering their lives to that existence in the heavens!

    Unlike the people of the Primordial Ruins, they didn''t even know whom they were worshiping. All they knew was that above in the heavens, a radiant figure shone down on them, lighting their path forward like a lighthouse.

    This figure could be the deity in people''s hearts or perhaps what some call Heaven itself!

    After all, it was saving the people!

    As long as they practiced the Ascension Technique, the pain would disappear.

    As for where the pain came from and what cost came with practicing the Ascension Technique... themon folk couldn''t understand.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>In city after city, more and more beings, overwhelmed by the disaster, knelt on the ground to practice their techniques.

    As soon as they meditated, their faces contorted in pain were transformed into sacred smiles.

    A single city blossomed with countless smiling faces.

    In the Nine Hells alone, an endless stream of life force ascended to the heavens, bing a force against the natural order... an unimaginable wealth of Immortal energy!

    Yun Xiao had just returned and witnessed all of this with his own eyes.

    "The Sword Ruins..." His heart shuddered, and he suddenly took flight on his Sovereign Sword towards the Eternal Sword Prison.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 487: Joyful Surprise!

    Chapter 487: Joyful Surprise!

    When Yun Xiao arrived above the Sword Ruins, he was struck by the sight of the world of the Sword Cultivators, now devoid of anyone wielding their swords in flight.

    All the Sword Cultivators were on their knees, hands sped in prayer between the mountain peaks, their eyes bloodshot and faces solemn, offering their thanks to the heavens above!

    The satisfied smiles on their faces, however, sent chills down the spine of any onlooker.

    ¡°Sword Warden!¡± Yun Xiao entered the ruins, and there in the Golden Springs, Mu Tianjian, robed in gold, also knelt, his body trembling, his eyes bleeding.

    ¡°Stop practicing,¡± he said, reaching for Mu Tianjian¡¯s hand.

    But Mu Tianjian violently shook him off and red at him, raging, ¡°Heaven has bestowed its grace upon us. How dare we squander it? Yun Xiao, you foolhardy child, won¡¯t you practice too?¡±

    Yun Xiao hadn¡¯t expected the Sword Warden to recognize him. But it was pointless!

    The Sword Warden was no longer young. Before, he had a chance to break through to the Five Cmities Realm. Now, with the Heavenly Decay descending, his path to eternal life was doomed.

    ¡°Can the Prison Warden Sigil cure the All Life Devouring Gu?¡±With the Heavenly Decay affecting him too, Yun Xiao could only pin his hopes on thisst gambit. He hurriedly produced the Prison Warden Sigil and pressed it against Mu Tianjian¡¯s forehead!

    The volume of the All Life Devouring Gu in the Nine Hells was actually quite low, and with the sigil applied, Mu Tianjian¡¯s eyes quickly began to sizzle, and soon, the blood in his eyes faded.

    This indicated that the Prison Warden Sigil, with over 9,000,000 Runes, was indeed much stronger than before.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, what¡¯s happened?¡± Mu Tianjian asked, bewildered.

    After his confusion, a pang of pain creased his brow. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my body? It feels like it¡¯s decaying?¡±

    ¡°The Primordial Ruins are in trouble. A True Immortal from the Celestial Court descended, brainwashing you all into practicing an evil technique and consuming your lifespans for her own. Stop practicing this method; endure the pain for a few days,¡± Yun Xiao said gravely.

    ¡°A True Immortal from the Celestial Court? Evil technique? Our lifespans?¡± Mu Tianjian listened, dumbstruck. The whole situation sounded incredulous! Yet, he believed in Yun Xiao.

    ¡°By all, you mean the whole Nine Hells? How many people might that be?¡± Mu Tianjian¡¯s voice trembled.

    ¡°If this continues, it will eventually affect the myriad worlds, and everyone will be sustaining these True Immortals with their lives,¡± Yun Xiao said fiercely.

    "Is this an Immortal or a fiend?" Mu Tianjian''s worldview hadpletely shattered.

    "I''ll go save the others first."

    Without a second word, Yun Xiao made his way to the Mu-Mu Hu. Inside, both Mu Dalong and her daughter Mu Xiaolong were kneeling in the courtyard, their expressions as if in prayer.

    Yun Xiao drew out the All Life Devouring Gu from their bodies and left some of the power of the Prison Warden Sigil within them, which would fend off the Gu for some time.

    "Fae!" Mu Xiaolong felt as if she had just woken from a sleep, opening her eyes to see Yun Xiao, like she was in a dream.

    "What''s happened to us?" Mu Dalong''s beautiful eyes trembled slightly, her voice tinged with confusion.

    "Let your father exin."

    After speaking, Yun Xiao soared into the sky with his Sovereign Sword, and in an instant, he was above the Sword Ruins.

    "The Prison Warden Sigil can''t handle this alone. You can only save them one by one. The All Life Devouring Gu spreads millions in a moment," Blue Star said seriously.

    "I know!" Yun Xiao''s eyes were red with blood.

    Standing high above, viewing the disaster below, his breath grew heavy.

    "Wait..."

    Suddenly, he looked to the east, where the vast Heavenly Decay was corrupting the Immortal energy and surging in a certain direction.

    "Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao''s expression changed dramatically, and he transformed into a streak of azure light, arriving at the entrance of a vortex.

    "The Heavenly Decay and the All Life Devouring Gu have both invaded," Blue Star eximed.

    Yun Xiao''s face was tense and agitated as he plunged into the vortex, emerging in a ce where his dreams had once set sail.

    The Demon Continent was gone; below was the Divine Continent!

    "Fortunately, it''s just begun to spread. Nothing has happened on the Divine Continent yet..."

    However, given the rate at which the disaster was spreading, it wouldn''t take long for the entirend of the Divine Continent to suffer.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes zed like a celestial sword plunging from the sky! In the months he''d been cultivating, he had known anger and hatred, but such fury and loathing were rare even for him.

    The Three Immortals were nothing in his eyes; not True Immortals! When their superiors arrived, they magnified the disasters caused by the Three Immortals tenfold!

    What did they consider human life?

    What kind of Immortal was this!

    The raging force in his chest, quiet for just a while, was now fully aroused, erupting vehemently!

    He was like a man ame, his heart carrying a woman in a ck gown who embodied his mortal dreams...

    "Sister, senior sister..." Yun Xiao''s throat burned.

    The green forests below swiftly came into view. That was Azure Spirit, where his journey began! The sword pavilion, Little Cloud Residence, the courtyard, the fish pond, the osmanthus trees, and the stone table, the Daughter''s Red Wine...

    "Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao descended like a storm from heaven, suddenlynding in the courtyard.

    Contrary to his fury, the whole Little Cloud Residence was tranquil, content, peaceful, and warm, as if it were another world.

    "What are you rushing about for?"

    Suddenly, a soft and beautiful voice called out.

    Yun Xiao looked up, dazed, to see a woman in a ck gown sitting in an osmanthus tree, holding a jadentern, gazing down at Yun Xiao with a fond smile.

    "Senior Sister Zhao..."

    Upon seeing her, all the fire within Yun Xiao slowly dissipated, like a me merging into vast, profound waters. His inner world began to feel more spacious.

    "Last night, some snakes and bugs damaged myntern, so I went down to the market to buy a few new ones. I spent half the day painting rabbits on them. Do they look good?"

    Zhao Xuanran held up thentern, showing Yun Xiao her peaceful, slow-paced life with a cheerful smile.

    Yun Xiao stared at her, the agitation in his heart subsiding, a smile spreading across his face, "No need to paint them. Thenterns look better in and round."

    "Naughty." Zhao Xuanran bit her lip and red at him. "I get so annoyed with you. You disappear for days, and the first thing you do when you get back is make cheeky jokes."

    As she spoke, she lightly floated down from the osmanthus tree, extended her hand, and gently brushed the dirt and sand from Yun Xiao''s clothes, softly asking, "Tell me, how many bad guys did you stand up to out there this time?"

    Yun Xiao pointed to the sky, shaking his head, "This time it''s serious trouble. The threat is massive, it''s brought disaster upon the whole world."

    "This..." Zhao Xuanran paused, taken aback. After a moment, she gently cradled Yun Xiao''s face, her eyes sparkling as she said, "Don''t worry, the world is full of injustices that lead to resentment and unhappiness, but you were born to break all that."

    "Are you really not afraid?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "With you as my junior, I fear nothing," she replied softly, with augh.

    Her posture was rxed. Her ease also allowed Yun Xiao to rx.

    In the gentle breeze, she held Yun Xiao close, their embrace full of tender warmth.

    It was a sense ofplete and epassing happiness.

    Yun Xiao also wrapped his arms around her waist, and they stood thus, serene and quiet, for a long time.

    "Listen, you should hide away in the Nine Heavens Star Meridians Pagoda for a few days," Yun Xiao said.

    "How many days?" Zhao Xuanran asked.

    "Until I return to take you out," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Alright, if it eases your mind," she said, her beautiful eyes fluttering.

    "Then I..." Yun Xiao let go, slowly stepping back from her embrace.

    "Go ahead."

    Zhao Xuanran took two steps back and gently lowered her head.

    "Mm..." Yun Xiao nodded, summoned his Sovereign Sword, and stepped onto it.

    "Junior Brother Yun!" Just as Yun Xiao was about to soar away swiftly on his sword, Zhao Xuanran suddenly called out, her pretty face tinged with mncholy.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    She hesitated for a moment, then rxed her clenched fingers, smiling. "When you solve the problem, could I borrow half a day of your time? Take me to see the ces you''ve been, just flying over them. I won''t get close, just look from afar."

    "Are you conducting an inspection?" Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "Can''t I?" she asked.

    "Senior sister¡­" Yun Xiao suddenly became solemn, looking earnestly at her. "As long as you wish, I''ll carry you on my sword for a lifetime."

    Zhao Xuanran was startled.

    She gazed at Yun Xiao for a long time, lost in thought and silent.

    "I must go now," Yun Xiao said.

    She nodded, still silent.

    With a hum, Yun Xiao shot into the sky and vanished in the blink of an eye.

    "Junior Brother Yun, I..." Her eyes reddened slightly as she slowly sat on the stone chair, then leaned over the stone table, lost in thought.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "What''s really the matter?" a voice suddenly rang by her ear.

    Zhao Xuanran sprang to her feet, only to see the young man in white standing before her, looking at her tenderly.

    "Why did you return?" she asked, her voice trembling.

    "You had something to tell me, but it wasn''t about flying in the sky," Yun Xiao said.

    "I..." She lowered her head.

    "Go on," Yun Xiao stepped forward and took her hand.

    Zhao Xuanran''s eyes brimmed with tears as she looked at him for a long time.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze was resolute.

    Finally, she took a deep breath, somewhat awkwardly, "How long have we known each other?"

    Yun Xiao thought for a moment, "About two or three months? I don''t remember clearly, but I remember the first time we met..."

    Before Yun Xiao could finish, she suddenly said, "Since I met you, I haven''t had my period."

    "..." Yun Xiao fell silent.

    "I went to see the doctor this morning." Zhao Xuanran raised her head, suddenly clutching his hand tightly.

    "What did they say..." Yun Xiao asked, stunned.

    She bit her lip for a moment, then finally said two words, "Joyful pulse."

    Yun Xiao felt as if he had been struck by a hammer, his mind buzzing, he blurted out, "How''s that possible, I''m not even human..."

    "Idiot, what are you talking about?" Zhao Xuanran''s eyes reddened, ring at him. Suddenly she began to cry, "It''s all your fault, my good days are gone, and now I''ll have to bear your child, so annoying."

    "..." Yun Xiao remained silent. His mind buzzed, never having dreamt that this would happen so soon.

    "Bluey, what''s going on?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I don''t know."

    "Am I not the Creator Immortal?"

    "I didn''t say Creator Immortals couldn''t have children with humans, did I?"

    Yun Xiao was stunned, his mind a nk.

    It took him a while to gather his thoughts.

    "You don''t like children?" Zhao Xuanran red at him.

    "I do, I do!" Yun Xiao quickly tightened his grip on her delicate hand. "I''m just a bit dazed..."

    "I know! You''re just a big kid yourself, so don''t worry, I''ll take care of the child myself. You don''t have to do anything," Zhao Xuanran paused, her voice softening. "Don''t fret. I''m just letting you know you''re going to be a father, that''s all."

    That sounded too easy, didn''t it?

    Yun Xiao scratched his head and asked, "How long does it take to have a baby?"

    "About nine months," Zhao Xuanran replied.

    "Oh! Then there''s no problem. In that much time, I could turn the heavens upside down," Yun Xiao said.

    "..." Now, it was Zhao Xuanran''s turn to be speechless.

    The more she thought about it, the angrier she got, and she pinched Yun Xiao''s face, annoyed. "You''re so young, and you don''t learn. You always make trouble and then just walk away."

    "What should I do then?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Just go and save the world. I''m going to hangnterns," Zhao Xuanran said.

    Having spoken her mind, she felt liberated, and though she seemed angry, Yun Xiao could feel the joy in her heart.

    She did like children. Seeing her busy herself, Yun Xiao, having sorted out his thoughts, suddenly felt his confusing life had direction.

    A home, her, and hope...

    "Senior Sister Zhao!" Yun Xiao rose on his Sovereign Sword, smiling at the woman in the ck gown. "Take my advice, innterns are bestrge and full, they symbolize the great Dao."

    "Hush. Go be a world-saving Sword Immortal," Zhao Xuanran said, turning away with a leisurely smile.

    "I was wondering, after the baby is born, can I have one of thenterns?" Yun Xiao called back as he flew away on his sword.

    "Go away, you''re annoying!" Zhao Xuanran shouted back.

    Red Moon, overhearing, chimed in excitedly, "I want one too!"

    Yun Xiao was exasperated and snapped, "Go to hell, you won''t get a single sip even at the grand finale!"

    Blue Star copsed, protesting, "It''s your problem, not mine! Why are you squeezing me? Let go!"

 Chapter 488: Two Mutts Ascending the Heavens!

    Chapter 488: Two Mutts Ascending the Heavens!

    In the Nine Hells, near the Immortal Asylum, there stood a dim, yellowke.

    What had been clear waters was now muddied and darkened under the eerie light of the fused sun and moon, turning into a stagnant pool of death. Fish, shrimp, insects, and nts could not endure the Heavenly Decay, and soon floated up to the surface, bellies white and lifeless.

    Every creature, every de of grass, perished in this catastrophe.

    Life, fleeting as a mayfly''s day-long existence, naturally expired even quicker.

    Thiske was but a microcosm!

    From the Nine Hells, the catastrophe of extinction spread like a primordial beast, devouring world after world.

    Wherever it went, it left creatures in misery.

    This disaster, more dreadful than the legendary cmities wrought by the Nian, was ironically orchestrated by the revered True Immortals of the Celestial Court, a bitter irony indeed.

    "Pomelo..."Beside thiske, on a block of bluestone, sat a girl in a white dress, her gaze hollow as she stared at the carcasses of fish and shrimp on the water''s surface.

    "He won¡¯te back, will he?" Lian Xi murmured.

    In her arms, a small white tiger the size of a palm looked worldly and wise as it sneered, "Considering how he fled in panic, it''s clear he''s a coward. Don''t expect much!"

    "He really did seem scared," Lian Xi said, lifting her eyes to the sky. "Do you think he''s afraid of that woman''s power, or her status?"

    "If it''s just status, that''s manageable. We don''t need to worry about the power ys of the Celestial Court. But if it''s power, then we''re in trouble." The little tiger sighed.

    "This isn''t the worst of it," Lian Xi said through clenched teeth.

    "What could be worse?"

    "Our enemy possesses both status and power," Lian Xi''s face hardened with frost.

    "It¡¯s mainly a matter of time. The lives of themon folk and the ecosystems of myriad worlds can¡¯t hold out much longer; otherwise, we wouldn¡¯t fear her!" the little tiger said angrily.

    Both fell silent for a moment.

    "See thiske?" the little tiger suddenly said solemnly.

    "I see it..."

    "The disaster is going to cause irreparable damage to the entire mortal realm. The Arbiter Immortal can''t be relied on, and the suffering of the people is immense; there''s only one solution!" the small white tiger said, its eyes zing as it looked at the girl in the white dress. "Lil Xi, I really can''t understand your hesitation!"

    "The only way you''re talking about is..."

    "Of course, it''s through seizing Yun Xiao''s Primordial Martial Furnace! That way, you can break through to be a True Immortal and directly confront the scourge afflicting the myriad worlds! You''ve made significant progress recently, reaching the Perfect Yang Immortal Realm¡ªonly a step or two left!" the small white tiger said earnestly.

    "No! My master told me Yun Xiao defeated the Sky Source Immortal alone. If ites to a fight, he''d be more useful than me." Lian Xi shook her head.

    "Shut up!" The tiger''s whiskers bristled with anger. "Understand this, you were born a savior. Don''t put too much faith in him; he''s trying to steal your destiny."

    "Does it matter who ys the hero, as long as everyone is saved?" Lian Xi replied, shaking her head again.

    "Listen, Lian Xi!" The tiger stared at her. "His limit might be the Sky Source Immortal, but if you ascend, you can truly activate the divine powers of the Primordial Pagoda. Your potential far exceeds his by leagues! Only a True Immortal like you can face an enemy that that Arbiter Immortal fears."

    "I understand," Lian Xi inhaled sharply. "I''ll discuss it with him; at least he has the right to know."

    "Heh," The small white tiger rolled its eyes. "As if he''d agree! He''s far more selfish than you, don''t expect him to sacrifice himself."

    "He''s not as you describe; he has apassionate soul," Lian Xi dered, her gaze resolute.

    "Please, he''s nothing but a brutal, reckless rogue!" the small white tiger spat.

    Lian Xi ignored the small white tiger''s furtherments.

    Just then, a streak of azure light descended from the sky, slowlynding beside Lian Xi. It was Yun Xiao.

    Uponnding, his eyes fell on the murkyke, and he softly said, "Lil Xi, the flowers, the birdsongs, and the beauty ofpeting life forms are what make our fondest memories. Life is like a dream because of these splendors, making existence meaningful."

    "But now, the Immortals stand high above, proud and aloof, draining the lifeblood of the mortal world," Lian Xi clenched her fists, her eyes filled with boundless anger.

    Their eyes met.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze was cold and stern.

    Lian Xi''s was filled with fury and dedication.

    "Arbiter Lu represents a hope. But we cannot wait idly," Yun Xiao said.

    "What do you n to do?" Lian Xi asked softly.

    "I''ve hit a barrier in the Five Decays Realm and haven''t broken through. I suspect my Life Sigil is the culprit, suppressing and preventing the next decay. So, I want to approach the corrupted Celestial Sourcecore and absorb a significant amount of its Heavenly Decay to see," Yun Xiao''s eyes burned fiercely.

    "Isn''t that dangerous? The Heavenly Decay is a withering disaster," Lian Xi said, concerned.

    "Without destruction, there can be no creation. With the world in such a state, what do I care for danger?" Yun Xiao reached out, touching her cheek, "I''ve made up my mind. I''m going now."

    "Alright," Lian Xi resigned herself, knowing she could not stop him.

    "By the way." Yun Xiao blinked, "I''m giving you two sticks, made of gold."

    "Huh, two sticks? You''re one person. How do you have two sticks?" the small white tiger poked its head out, somewhat surprised.

    "Huh?" Yun Xiao pulled out the two Gilded Dragon Maces from his Bag of Holding and handed the Immortal weapons to Lian Xi. "I meant these two sticks."

    "Tsk¡­!" The small white tiger felt bored and withdrew.

    "Such big sticks..." Despite Lian Xi''s delicate appearance, she possessed extraordinary strength. The pair of Gilded Dragon Maces weighed far more than her usual axe and warhammer. Yet, she lifted them with ease, swinging them casually.

    "They suit you well, don''t they?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    A girl in a white dress, swinging two golden maces taller than herself¡ªthe scene was absurd yet imposing.

    "Immortal weapons!" Lian Xi jumped with joy, her eyes shining as she looked at Yun Xiao. "Thank you for the gift of the sticks! I will treasure them for a lifetime."

    She was overjoyed.

    But Yun Xiao, thinking that her lifetime might not be very long, felt a pang of mncholy.

    "I''m off," Yun Xiao said.

    Lian Xi quickly stowed away the maces and tugged at the hem of Yun Xiao''s robe. "Wait, I''ll go with you."

    "It''s dangerous there," Yun Xiao said seriously.

    "That''s exactly why I must protect you," Lian Xi dered with a steadfast look.

    Yun Xiao gazed at her for a moment, then stepped back on his Sovereign Sword, making room for her, and smiled. "Get on the sword!"

    "Alright!" Lian Xi''s smile bloomed, simple and pure, so pristine it seemed sacrilege to mar it even slightly.

    Yun Xiao then embraced her and soared on the Sovereign Sword toward the Primordial Ruins.

    That divine ark had once been a ce of dreams for all the people of the myriad worlds; now, it was a source of sin and disaster.

    On the Sovereign Sword, Yun Xiao held her close. He understood well; her ethereal grace was unlike that of Zhao Xuanran.

    "How do you manage to move between two women seamlessly without any guilt?" Blue Star asked in astonishment.

    "Girls, how wonderful they are. Do not fuss over choices, nor burden yourself too much. Just follow your heart and appreciate in silence," Yun Xiao advised.

    "That''s too profound, I didn''t catch it. Bluey, did you get that?" Red Moon inquired.

    "I tranted it. What he means is, he wants them all, and he¡¯s quite open about it," Blue Star remarked with a click of the tongue.

    "Darn. If the old Creator had realized this, his descendants would have filled the heavens with Immortals instead of needing to create more people," Red Moon said, stunned.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Primordial Ruins, upon arriving, Yun Xiao slowed his Sovereign Sword and gazed towards the conjunction of the sun and moon, threading through the thick gold and ck mist, drawing closer in silence.

    The closer he got, the more violent and pervasive the force of decay became, seeping into everything!

    He looked into the distance and saw that the Peach Sea Formation was still there, shining like a pearl in thisnd of sin.

    On the streets, tens of millions of people continued to smile as they burned their lives away...

    This disaster had now touched Azure Spirit! Yun Xiao could tolerate no more!

    "Yun Xiao!" Just as they neared the Celestial Sourcecore and the surrounding temperature began to rise, Lian Xi suddenly called out to him softly, then said, "There''s someone ahead!"

    "Who..."

    Following her gaze, Yun Xiao saw a figure near the fiercely burning Celestial Sourcecore.

    The figure was small, not seeming to be an adult.

    "Anyone here at this time, not practicing the Ascension Technique but instead appearing in this ce, can only be an Immortal from the Celestial Court!"

    Yun Xiao stared intently at the figure, moving even closer.

    Soon, they both saw clearly!

    It was a girl, about 12 or 13 years old, her hair done up in a bun, dressed in a short robe embroidered with peach blossoms.

    Though just a child, her eyes were ice-cold and mature, devoid of youthful naivety.

    And so, Yun Xiao was unsure of her actual age.

    "She might be simr to that boy, Mu Shuo, fromst time¡ªa True immortal, likely a follower, not the leader," Yun Xiao surmised.

    As long as it wasn''t the leader, they weren¡¯t overly concerned.

    "Right," Lian Xi nodded, anger building in her eyes.

    They observed the girl holding a jade bottle, tilting it to pour a pink liquid into the Celestial Sourcecore!

    "Are you seeing that? The force of Heavenly Decay from the Celestial Sourcecore is growing stronger?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "It must be due to the substance in that bottle." Lian Xi bit her lip. "The leader isn¡¯t here. If we destroy this bottle now, we might slow the disaster''s spread, making things easier for everyone."

    "But that girl is a True Immortal. Though she seems weaker than the Sky Source Immortal, she''s not easy to deal with," Yun Xiao said gravely.

    "Are you suggesting we pass up this opportunity?" Lian Xi gripped his hand earnestly. "The enemy is elerating the demise of the myriad worlds with this thing. If we shatter it, we might gain ten days, maybe even half a month!"

    "I know¡­" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Is it because you temporarily can''t replicate the fighting power you used against the Mystic Earth Immortal and Sky Source Immortal? No matter, let me try," Lian Xi''s gaze filled with determination.

    Just as she spoke, a mockingugh sounded before them.

    "Really?" The girl had noticed them and now stood before their eyes!

    "Hrious, you two mortal mutts, don¡¯t you know a True Immortal can project their spirit and see in all directions? Sneaking around trying to trick me, eh?" The girl''s eyes brimmed with scorn.

 Chapter 489: Thinking of Leaving? Leave Your Life Behind First!

    Chapter 489: Thinking of Leaving? Leave Your Life Behind First!

    Yun Xiao watched the little girl with a cold gaze and retreated with his Sovereign Sword.

    "Thinking of leaving? Leave your life behind first!" The girl chuckled coldly and turned into a streak of pink light, chasing after him.

    Though small in stature, her explosive power was terrifying. Her body, like a sharp sword piercing the sky, caught up to Yun Xiao in an instant.

    <em>BOOM! </em>She was likely a Martial Immortal. Her punch shook the heavens, nearly rivaling the might of the Sky Source Immortal. And she was but a mere child!

    "Escape, and go on without me!" Lian Xi suddenly turned and pushed Yun Xiao away, then shed with the young Immortal girl. She was also a Martial Cultivator!

    Yun Xiao had just given her the Gilded Dragon Maces, and they now appeared in her handw. Her twin golden maces collided repeatedly with the girl''s fists, creating a deafening uproar.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The white lightning mes on the golden maces targeted the girl''s body, but the True Immortal''s power sent Lian Xi flying back.

    "Daring to block my divine might with a mortal body?" The little girl thought she could crush Lian Xi with one punch, but instead, her fists bled.

    Upon closer inspection, Lian Xi was unharmed and fierce as a tiger, her eyes ferocious as she lunged again."Immortal armaments?!" Greed filled the little girl''s eyes.

    Lian Xi not only wielded the Gilded Dragon Maces, but she also wore the Martial Emperor''s Armor. In that moment, she was like a fierce war goddess, her aura undiminished despite only being a full Sun Immortal.

    "After merging with the Primordial Pagoda, herbat strength has truly exploded in the past few days¡­" Yun Xiao mused. He didn''t leave but watched the battle calmly on his Sovereign Sword from afar.

    Lian Xi might even surpass Dean Yu and Shen Cang now!

    Yun Xiao watched closely as Lian Xi battled the young Immortal girl among the clouds. Though they were but two girls, each blow was brutal, akin to fierce beasts of the heavens shing, stirring mighty tempests within the clouds.

    The young Immortal girl, with her formidable Immortal energy, fought using merely her limbs, her movements embodying the perfect blend of softness and rigidity, sophistication in simplicity. Yun Xiao gained much from observing her.

    As for Lian Xi, her power might have been lesser, but with sheer ferocity and Immortal weapons in hand, she fought with relentless vigor, her spirit formidable.

    In a brief time, the two exchanged several rounds of fiercebat. Yet the little girl failed to ovee a mere mortal, which brought her great shame and outrage.

    "She can''t hold on much longer!" Blue Star cautioned.

    "Not necessarily." As Yun Xiao spoke, Lian Xi was momentarily pinned down by the girl, her eyes zing with divine light that scorched the young immortal.

    "The Primordial Pagoda, unmatched under heaven!"

    With a thunderous explosion, a dazzling light burst forth from her embrace, and an overpowering aura ascended to the skies!

    The little white tiger transformed, turning into a white pagoda that suddenly crashed down upon the girl, its overwhelming force causing her flesh to rupture!

    A True Immortal wounded by a mortal!

    "That thing is even better!"

    Despite being crushed and injured by the pagoda, the young Immortal girl''s eyes glinted with even greater greed as she eyed the Primordial Pagoda.

    Her eyes shed coldly as she suddenly spotted Yun Xiao behind Lian Xi.

    "That boy''s being protected by that girl, and he still hasn¡¯t fled?"

    She roared angrily, summoning a whirlwind of peach blossoms charging towards Lian Xi. Just as they were about to sh again, the girl suddenlyughed maniacally and pivoted, lunging towards Yun Xiao!

    "Taking your man¡¯s life for a few treasures isn¡¯t too much, right?"

    Her greedy expression was clearly no child¡¯s!

    "Yun Xiao!" Lian Xi, ever so righteous, had not expected such treachery, a sneak attack!

    By the time she realized, it was toote to save Yun Xiao.

    In that instant, her eyes reddened with fury, and she turned and roared, "Harm him, and I''ll ughter your ancestors 18 generations deep!"

    Her roar, like that of a ferocious tiger, caused Yun Xiao''s ears to tremble.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    In that electrifying moment, he smiled at the young girl.

    "Smirking at death¡¯s door, you still... what?!" As the girl reached out to seize him, a sudden spray of blood erupted beneath her, and a blood-red dragon furiously burst through the clouds, biting into her lower half!

    Lian Xi''s Primordial Pagoda followed swiftly, crashing down like 100,000 mountains atop the girl¡¯s head, instantly bloodied and beaten.

    The girl screamed in agony.

    With a vicious roar, the blood dragon seized the opportunity, sending countless spikes of bloodlight piercing into the girl¡¯s body.

    It brutally snapped her in two!

    "Master, Master..." she gasped, her eyes wide in disbelief as she stared at the blood dragon, her face deathly pale.

    With a sizzling sound, her torn body waspletely drained of blood by the dragon.

    The jade vial wrapped around her waist fell and was caught by Yun Xiao.

    "The Peach Blossom Elixir!" she cried out desperately, her voice filled with anger and misery. She screamed until life left her, dying on the spot.

    Thest thing she saw was the blood dragon in front of her transforming into a tall, sultry woman with legs that were longer than the girl was tall...

    "A devil?" She uttered the word, then breathed no more.

    Another True Immortal had died in this mortal realm, killed in a moment of shock by two women protecting Yun Xiao.

    Lian Xi''s face was ashen. When she saw Yun Xiao smiling, ying with the jade vial, she finally breathed a sigh of relief. Then, tears filled her eyes.

    "Yun Xiao..." She flew into his arms.

    "It''s alright now, no need to worry." Yun Xiaoforted her.

    "Yes, it''s my fault, I..." Lian Xi began, then remembered the blood dragon. Looking up, she saw a beauty taller than Yun Xiao, smiling at them as they embraced.

    Her smile was profoundly meaningful.

    "Who is she?" Lian Xi asked, her eyes sweeping over the War Princess from head to toe. She couldn''t help but stick out her tongue and muttered, "Her figure is unbelievable, even bigger than Sister Yingying... Wait, is she the devil?"

    At the thought of the devil, her brows furrowed, instinctively recoiling.

    Before Yun Xiao could make introductions, the War Princess spoke in a haunting voice, "My apologies, Master. I haveete to save you, and for that, I deserve death. Please, be gentle in your punishment."

    With that, she presented Yun Xiao a leather whip.

    "Huh?" Lian Xi tightened her face as she listened and eyed the whip.

    She pouted at Yun Xiao.

    "Cough, cough." Yun Xiao red at the War Princess and said coldly, "Stop your act, take her body away, and get out."

    "Yes," the War Princess replied mournfully, casting a tearful nce at Yun Xiao. "I was just thinking you''ve found a new love and haven''t paid any attention to me for a long time. If you prefer the more innocent type, I can also change my appearance."

    Yun Xiao almost choked, ring at her and barked, "Idiot, leave!"

    The War Princess left tearfully, swaying her hips.

    "New love?" Lian Xi felt like she had been struck by lightning, looking bewilderedly at Yun Xiao with tear-filled eyes.

    "Don''t listen to her nonsense. She''s a friend of mine, a bad one, trying to ruin our rtionship. Let''s not mind her," Yun Xiao reassured.

    "Should I believe that?" Lian Xi said, feeling wronged.

    "Trust me, you''ll never lose if you do," Yun Xiao assured with conviction.

    Lian Xi wiped away her tears and naively asked, "Are you still a virgin?"

    Yun Xiao was speechless.

    "Laughable, he''s about to be a father," Blue Star chimed in, popping its head out.

    Lian Xi''s lips quivered as she red fiercely at Yun Xiao and, without another word, dashed toward the Nine Hells, no longer riding on his sword.

    Her anger was so fierce, Yun Xiao couldn''t catch up!

    Sobbing along the way, Lian Xi''s tears flowed freely.

    "Pomelo, I''m so heartbroken, I''ve been cheated on!"

    "What are we going to do?" the little white tiger asked, eyes wide.

    "I want revenge!" Lian Xi gritted her teeth.

    "How will you get revenge?" the little white tiger asked again.

    Lian Xi clenched her fists and fumed, "I used to worry about his future and didn''t want to ruin him."

    "And then?" the tiger prompted.

    Lian Xi looked back at the white-robed youth following her, pouting, "Stupid man, I''m going to drain you dry! You''ll never be the unparalleled hero again, I will take that role!"

    "Is that your revenge?" The little white tiger rolled its eyes,menting, "You''re just throwing the cabbage to the pig."

 Chapter 490: Downing the Peach Blossom Elixir!

    Chapter 490: Downing the Peach Blossom Elixir!

    Aftering to her senses, Lian Xi slowed her pace and ceased the tearful, frenzied flight. Yet, she pouted and scowled, adorably furious.

    Yun Xiao caught up to her in a blink.

    "Come on, Lil Xi. Don''t be so angry," Yun Xiao said, taking her delicate hand.

    "Hmph," Lian Xi crossed her arms and turned her head away.

    "It''s all my fault; I was young and foolish," Yun Xiao confessed.

    Lian Xi turned to re at him, her lips pursed as she demanded, "Foolish how?"

    Yun Xiao could only exin, "Back in my days in the Nine Hells, when I was a young Emperor of a mortal nation, the pce arranged for me..."

    "Out with it, how many were there?" Lian Xi asked anxiously.

    Yun Xiao scratched his head and chuckled awkwardly. "Maybe seven or eight?""Exactly how many!" Lian Xi pressed, her eyes widening.

    Yun Xiao, shamefaced, looked down and admitted, "A different one each day."

    Lian Xi was stunned momentarily, then, ovee with sadness and fury, she stepped forward, seized his cor, and pounded on his chest, eximing, "You''re unbearable!"

    "Go easy," Yun Xiao winced, his chest rattling, barely catching his breath.

    After a long while, Lian Xi ceased her assault.

    "I don''t want to talk about this anymore," she said, lifting her gaze sorrowfully at Yun Xiao. "By the way, are you still nning to visit that Celestial Source?"

    "No more. That girl died there; they''ll surely notice. It''s no ce for cultivation now," Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "What about triggering your tribtions?" Lian Xi tugged at his garment.

    "Look at this," Yun Xiao produced a jade vial, giving it a shake. Inside, the water churned, a faint pink mist rising.

    "Is this from that True Immortal just now?" Lian Xi asked.

    "Yes. The liquid inside is the essence of the Heavenly Decay. With it, why would I need the Celestial Sourcecore?" Yun Xiao gazed at the vial, his eyes gleaming.

    "Oh," Lian Xi nodded, enlightened. "I remember now, she called it the Peach Blossom Elixir, didn¡¯t she?"

    "I heard it too," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "The Peach Blossom Elixir is a divine substance from the heavens. It''s said that mortals need only taste it to prolong their lives. Is this juice squeezed from it?" Lian Xi''s eyes sparkled, mixed with a hint of doubt.

    "Peach Blossom Elixir, my foot. That''s just a fancy name," Yun Xiao sniffed at the jade vial, his brow furrowed. "It smells sweet, but make no mistake¡ªthis is a venom of heaven and earth. It seeped into the Celestial Sourcecore, causing decay across the myriad worlds and robbing the lives of countless beings. Every drop here is a sin that threatens all life."

    "How do we dispose of it?" Lian Xi looked at the vial with disgust.

    "It''s alright, I''ll try it first," Yun Xiao suddenly dered.

    "What? Try it?"

    Before Lian Xi could react, Yun Xiao had already squeezed the vial to his lips and took a sip.

    He pulled the vial away, his face flushing red, and he remarked with a sigh, "That tastes brilliant, stronger than Tiger Rod Wine. Fiery and sweet just like you, Lil Xi."

    "Have you lost your mind?" Lian Xi watched him anxiously, her pretty face filled with worry. "Are you alright?"

    "I''m fine, really." Yun Xiao''s face was flush with a drunken glow as he looked at the bottle and shook his head. "No good, this stuff. One sip and you want more¡ªit''s addictive!"

    "Give it to me!"

    Startled, Lian Xi quickly took the vial from him, saying nervously, "I''ll keep it. Don''t touch it anymore."

    "Hahaha... such fine wine!" Yun Xiao burst intoughter, suddenly staggering; his Sovereign Sword retracted into his body. His eyes squinted shut, and he plunged straight down towards the Nine Hells.

    "Yun Xiao!" Lian Xi quickly followed, catching Yun Xiao in a tight embrace.

    She was terrified. Fortunately, she found Yun Xiao seemed only drunk. His body was still warm, and he seemed to be breathing. She breathed a sigh of relief.

    "He dares to drink something that could poison the myriad worlds; he must be close to death. You''d better take advantage while he''s still warm..." A little white tiger popped its head out, excitedly speaking.

    "Get lost." Lian Xi red at it, holding Yun Xiao tightly as they fell through the sea of clouds,nding beside theke they had left earlier.

    She noticed the Life Sigil on Yun Xiao''s forehead lighting up, casting a dense pattern of violet dragon scales across his body. Where the dragon scales touched, the flush of red slowly faded from his skin.

    The previously flushed areas had actually begun to show signs of aging, such as his ck hair, which turned white for a moment.

    "It''s uncanny how his lifespan is wildly fluctuating. Even the judges of the underworld would be baffled looking at the Book of Life and Death," the little white tiger said in awe.

    "Quiet!" Lian Xi was somewhat panicked, her eyes reddening again, tears glittering like jewels.

    She could feel the drastic changes and the gamble between life and death happening inside Yun Xiao. The poor fellow was hopping back and forth at death''s door.

    "You have to hold on..." She had been quite angry before, but now, seeing him caught between life and death, she realized just how deeply she cared for him; her heart was breaking.

    On Three Immortals Day, she was tied to thepass, and Yun Xiao had defended her and in the Mystic Earth Immortal... These scenes were engraved in her heart, transforming her from her core!

    Perhaps no one could change an incarnation of transcending cmity who was a descendant of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor¡ªno one but the Creator Immortal.

    "Gah!"

    Just as Lian Xi''s hands trembled slightly and her eyes blurred with tears, Yun Xiao woke up amidst a bout of dry heaving.

    Groggily, he grabbed Lian Xi''s face, smiling, "What''s wrong, my precious Lian Xi? I''m not dead yet, why cry like this? Don''t you despise me?"

    "Ah... you scared me to death!" Lian Xi burst into tears, her grief as profound as rain in a pear orchard, her tears flowing freely again, evoking sympathy.

    Pity, that was the meaning of the first character in Lian Xi''s name. She seemed predestined to evoke pity.

    "This is nothing yet; the real thrills are still toe." Yun Xiao, still drunk, was quick with his hands and grabbed the jade vial of Peach Blossom Elixir that was lying nearby.

    "What are you doing! What are you doing!" Lian Xi was struck as if by lightning.

    "What else? I''m going all in. You do as you like!" Yun Xiao, smiling, held Lian Xi with one hand while he lifted the bottle with the other and drank heartily.

    <em>CHUG! CHUG! CHUG!</em>

    "AH! AH!" Lian Xi''s eyes widened, and she stood frozen, able only to scream, speechless.

    <em>BURP! </em>Yun Xiao belched heartily and turned the jade bottle upside down, grinning broadly, "Ah, what a treasure. That does it for me!"

    With those words, his grip on the vial loosened, nting it upside down in the ground, while he himself trembled with his limbs and theny rigid on the ground, his head tilting, tongue lolling out.

    "Ah! Yun Xiao! Yun Xiao!" Lian Xi''s hair disheveled, let out a wretched cry, tears bursting forth like a dam unleashed.

    "Strike while the iron is hot!" The little white tiger barked urgently, popping its head out.

    "Get lost!" Lian Xi grabbed its head, and in her grief and fury, flung it beyond the clouds where even its shadow vanished from sight.

    Her tears fell like rain as she knelt and cradled Yun Xiao''s arm.

    "No, no..." she wailed, in utter despair.

    Before her eyes, she could see Yun Xiao''s body visibly aging, his skin and hair deteriorating at an rming rate. His lush ck hair turned instantly white and withered, his skin was suddenly all wrinkles, and even his handsome face aged into that of an old man, his teeth wobbling.

    If this continued, he would soon be nothing but a pile of dry bones.

    Seeing this, Lian Xi''s spirit shattered.

    "The Five Decays, the tribtion hase, all four remaining decays at once..."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    It was the most horrific tribtion she had witnessed, spreading through Yun Xiao''s body like poison, deep into his heart, marrow, and organs.

    Yun Xiao seemed to have no chance to resist!

    "I''ll¡­ I''ll die with you! I care about nothing else!" Lian Xi cried.

    "Damn it!" The little white tiger had just returned and heard her, its tailbone quivering with rage, "Have you gone mad with love, forgetting the suffering of the people across the myriad worlds?"

    "Cough, cough." The aged Yun Xiao opened one cloudy eye and said, "Listen, throw that cat further away."

    "Huh? Okay! Okay!" Lian Xi, overjoyed to see him responsive, swung the little white tiger around and threw it far away, then came back to ask, "Are you alright?"

    "I''m fine, I''m fine..." Yun Xiao looked down and frowned, "Just can''t feel my lower half right now!"

    "What do we do now?" Lian Xi asked, dazed.

    "It''s nothing serious," Yun Xiao inhaled deeply, "I''ve withstood the Great Decay, why would I fear the Peach Blossom Elixir?"

    After speaking, the Life Sigil above his head swept across his body again.

    Lian Xi witnessed a miraculous sight¡ª

    Yun Xiao''s body was revived and rejuvenated! His flesh tightened, his hair darkened, his eyes brightened. When it was all over, his vitality seemed even more robust, and even the transformation process within him from sacred power to celestial power seemed to elerate!

    "It''s wonderful, truly wonderful." Lian Xi saw Yun Xiao revived, her tears of despair turning into tears of joy.

    "Remember, I am no ordinary man, I am ageless¡ªdarn it!" Yun Xiao patted his chest, but before he could finish, the force of decay swept through him once more, aging him from a robust youth to an old man on the brink of death,

    And this time he appeared even older and frailer than before.

    "Yun Xiao!" Lian Xi''s tears of joy were abruptly cut short, reced again by sorrow. She ced her hands on Yun Xiao''s chest, shaking him as she cried, "How could it fade again!"

    Pushing gently revealed a shocking truth, this time not only had he aged further, but his heart had also stopped beating.

    "He''s dead, he''s dead..." Lian Xi copsed to the ground, staring nkly at Yun Xiao, her spirit lost.

    "WAHHHHH!!" Shey over Yun Xiao, crying desperately.

    This time, her heart truly split with pain, a pain she had never known in her lifetime.

    "Ugh, my love, you''re about to break my ribs!"

    Suddenly a hand reached out, supporting Lian Xi''s chest, gently pushing her away.

    "Huh¡­?" Lian Xi, amidst her overwhelming grief, was pulled back into the air,pletely stunned.

 Chapter 491: May Their Morality Live Forever

    Chapter 491: May Their Morality Live Forever

    As though struck by a simple spell of confusion, Lian Xi watched Yun Xiao''s body wither and renew in a cycle that seemed to defy the very fabric of nature itself¡ªaging and rejuvenating repeatedly, a total of four times!

    By the end of the fourth cycle, Yun Xiao''s flesh had reached its peak of restoration. He stretched his limbs, sitting up briskly and twisting his neck. With a smile, he said, "Just like that, I''ve passed through the Five Decays in one go, breaking through four stages. Now, I just have to gather thest of my sacred power and transform it into celestial power, and I shall ascend to the realm of shadowy immortals."

    At longst, the bottleneck was shattered!

    With each oveing of the Five Decays, the body experienced a surge in vitality. Yun Xiao, fueled by the extremities of the ultimate source of Heavenly Decay, sparkled with newfound vitality¡ªa testament to the multitude of Seeds of Creation he had absorbed. This made him a Creator Immortal, distinctly aware of the unprecedented progress of his transformation, far surpassing others.

    Yun Xiao had undergone a grand metamorphosis of the flesh!

    His path to the heavens, once blocked by a minor obstacle, nowy open before him, shattered by his bold resilience. What unfolded was an endless heavenly path that could not be seen to its conclusion.

    This included the activation of the Nine Suns Dantian and the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, among others.

    All these transformations were evident in his appearance, which had be more perfect, his demeanor more ethereal and profound, ever more resembling a transcendent Creator Immortal.

    "Exhrating!"Having crushed this critical bottleneck, Yun Xiaoughed freely in sheer delight.

    With the body of a Creator Immortal and the Prison Warden Sigil capable of countering the Great Decay, today''s ordeal with the Peach Blossom Elixir was, in his calctions, never truly a moment of anxiety.

    However, Lian Xi was thoroughly frightened, her emotions tossed about like a leaf in the wind.

    Even now, she knelt beside him, tears brimming as she looked at Yun Xiao and asked with a trembling voice, "Is it... is it over?"

    "It''s over," Yun Xiao replied, stretching and smiling. "Look, as vigorous as a dragon and tigerbined."

    "I can''t believe it; I need to see more," Lian Xi said, her tears continuing to flow.

    Yun Xiao paused, looking at her closely and noticing her tear-reddened nose and the wetness on her garment, still sobbing. These were all real. Her emotions for him were inscribed in each tear that fell.

    "Lil Xi..." Yun Xiao whispered as he pulled her tightly into his embrace, his voice sincere, "It truly is over, I promise you. If I''m lying, may the heavens strike me down with lightning."

    Hearing these words, Lian Xi''s tense body suddenly rxed.

    Unable to hold back any longer, she nestled into Yun Xiao''s arms, sobbing softly like a kitten, each whimper piercing deep into Yun Xiao''s soul.

    "This is tragic, so deeply ensnared." Blue Star sighed, looking skyward.

    "It''s so moving, so tearful," Red Moon eximed as if a thunderstorm broke out.

    "Cry your own tears," Blue Star retorted with a p across its face.

    "I''ll hit you!"

    Each wielding an arm, they began to scuffle, and the small ck creature was promptly tossed into theke.

    However, suchmotion did not disturb the young couple in the woods, whose emotions had blossomed through life-and-death trials.

    Their hands sped tightly, they gazed into each other¡¯s eyes, where deep affection slowly turned into mes of desire.

    Feeling his intense ardor, Lian Xi blushed fiercely, her pale face turning a vivid red as she murmured shyly, "I¡ªI don''t know how!"

    "I''ll teach you," Yun Xiao whispered into her ear.

    Her heart raced wildly, panic stricken, yet her eyes misted over, bing hazy with emotion.

    Yun Xiao looked down at the nervous, naive, endearing, and slightly wild girl in his arms. Her innocence and purity were, in that moment, an irresistible allure.

    She and Chen Xi were so strikingly simr.

    For Lian Xi, this scene was unfamiliar, but for Yun Xiao, it was not new. In the Heavenly Realm, he had shared many beautiful and touching moments with another like her.

    It seemed Lian Xi loved him even more than Chen Xi did. But who could say this wasn''t ayering of one upon the other? At least, Yun Xiao was stubborn in his belief that it was indeed ayering. They were, in essence, one and the same.

    "Lil Xi..." Yun Xiao cupped her face gently, wiping away the tears at the corners of her eyes, and earnestly said, "Do you know why you had such dreams?"

    "Why¡­?" Lian Xi gazed at him, bewildered.

    "Because before I met you, I had already loved you."

    With those words, Yun Xiao began to loosen her sash.

    A soft moan escaped her lips, as dreams merged into reality.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Primordial Ruins, in the Human Zenith Ruins, a 13-year-old boy stepped into a sea of peach blossoms. He held a peach branch tightly, his face ominously somber as he traversed through the floral array into a secluded courtyard of exquisite make.

    At the entrance of the courtyard stood an elder d in ck, a Sword Cultivator. Upon seeing the boy, he bowed deeply and said with utmost respect, "Greetings, Lord Mu Shou."

    Mu Shou strode past him without a nce, his voice filled with urgency as he entered the courtyard. "Reporting to the Heavenly Immortal, something has happened to Tao Shuo!"

    He knelt before a temple, its facade nearly hidden under a cascade of peach blossoms, leaving only a wooden door covered with a sheer veil. Through the y of light and shadow, a slender figure could be faintly discerned within.

    Above, the vital essence of all beings from the Primordial Ruins and myriad worlds spiraled down like thick white smoke, funneling into the temple where the gracefuldy bathed in this effusion of souls, her presence elevated to an otherworldly sanctity.

    As she absorbed the dense mist, Mu Shuo spoke, the blooms rustling loudly in response, each petal turning sharp as a Flying Sword, their screeching resonant enough to instill reverence in both Mu Shuo and the elder at the door, who quickly bowed their heads.

    "What happened?" thedy asked, her voice cool and celestial, untouched by worldly concerns.

    "There were sounds of battle, and by the time I arrived, she was gone, the Peach Blossom Elixir stolen, only this branch left," Mu Shuo said through clenched teeth, lifting the branch in his hand. "Tao Shuo must have met her demise. I beg you to vanquish the evil!"

    "Do you know who the murderer is?" the ethereal beauty asked.

    Mu Shuo hesitated, and at that moment, the ck-d elder stepped forward and knelt, dering solemnly, "Among the mortals, only Yun Xiao could y a True Immortal. He also might have been aided by Lian Xi. These young ones hide many mysteries and are worth investigating."

    After speaking, hey prostrate, his eyes filled with reverence, daring not to say more.

    Mu Shuo also pressed his forehead to the ground, silent.

    After about three breaths, the surrounding peach blossoms and the dense smoke whirled tumultuously, causing a deafening storm that shook the Human Zenith Ruins to its core.

    Clearly, the Heavenly Immortal was perturbed.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    She rose slowly, her lips parting gently as she shook her head and spoke, "Mortals worship the divine, offering incense in gratitude, yet there are always those sanctimonious souls who envy and disrupt tranquility."

    "Then, what should be done?" Mu Shuo asked with a cold smile.

    "Take their heads," the Heavenly Immortal said calmly, "and make them into incense burners, that their morality may live forever."

 Chapter 492: A True Woman Acts First and Reports Later!

    Chapter 492: A True Woman Acts First and Reports Later!

    The rains whispered secrets, and to Lian Xi, it felt like a dream.

    At first, it was all tender sweetness, a sensation of warmth tingling through her body, as his every move unveiled new realms of her youth. Soft murmurs of dreams and the dew on the forest leaves apanied their gentle beginnings.

    As the moment deepened, a sudden downpour unleashed chaos, resembling the torrents of a storm. Yet the true resilience of the Yin-Yang Primordial Martial Furnace far surpassed that of mortals. Seemingly delicate but as vast as the seas, it caught and blended even the fiercest of emotions into harmony.

    It was just like in her dreams, but only through living it did she grasp the reality of their emotional fusion.

    Eventually, the storm abated, and in thezy haze that followed the rain, Lian Xi''s slender arms embraced the youth in her hold, and they drifted into deep sleep. Even in her dreams, a sweet smile lingered on her lips, suggesting a sense ofplete fulfillment.

    The forest around them seemed to revive, casting off the decaying power of that day.

    The long night stretched on.

    By mid-morning, Yun Xiao awoke, finding the purity of snow in his arms¡ªher delicacy and charm precious as pearls, almost melting in his hands.

    And wasn¡¯t everything about her just like Chen Xi?His gaze fell on the grass, stained slightly red with dew.

    "The same person, the first snow twice..."

    Such wonders, it seemed, belonged only to the incarnation of transcending cmity of the Primordial Immortal Ancestor.

    Originally destined to protect humanity without a hint of romantic desire, destined to end their own lives upon fulfilling their mission... yet, fate had entwined her with Yun Xiao.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Whether for better or worse, he couldn¡¯t yet say.

    ¡°Stop pretending, I know you¡¯re awake,¡± Yun Xiao murmured, kissing her lightly blushed cheek.

    "How did you know?" Lian Xi, shy to open her eyes, mumbled, her voice tiny. She wouldter blush at the thought of her prior abandon.

    "You stirred," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    "I did not... I need to dress..." Before she could finish, she was pulled back into the realm of dreams.

    Even the passing clouds above paused to help cover them.

    By noon, Yun Xiao''s second session hadpleted smoothly. During the process, a third of Lian Xi''s Yin Furnace power surged into him, akin to the Primordial Martial Furnace re-entering the Nine Suns Dantian, propelling Yun Xiao to a breakthrough in his cultivation.

    For the first time, he broke through the Five Decays Realm, transforming all his sacred power into celestial power, stepping into the Early Yin Immortal Realm.

    The second session provided even greater benefits. From receiving one tenth of Lian Xi''s power to one third, Yun Xiao broke through two more stages and stepped into the Late Yin Immortal Realm.

    In just one day and night, Yun Xiao had broken through seven stages, starting from the Early Five Decays Realm. He''d transformed from a promising young talent in the Primordial Ruins to one of its top powerhouses, ready to challenge even top Yang Immortals!

    Lian Xi, having surrendered a third of her Yin Furnace power, found herself regressing to the Early Yang Immortal Realm, now utterly outmatched by Yun Xiao''s true self.

    This was the crucial shift brought about by their prior sessions of <em>cultivation</em>.

    The third session was key.

    Eager to continue while the iron was hot, Yun Xiao saw Lian Xi''s weakened state, drained and unable to even stand from fatigue, and decided to let her rest a while longer.

    "Well done, Lil Xi, the bait''s in his mouth now," the little white tiger whispered, sneaking close to Lian Xi''s ear. "Just rest up, and soon it''ll be time to reel in the big fish."

    "I feel a bit panicked, like I''ve lost a lot already," Lian Xi said weakly.

    "Don''t fret over what''s lost or gained; you can''t catch the wolf without setting the trap," the little white tiger spoke earnestly.

    After pausing, it sneered at Yun Xiao''s cultivating figure, "The fool, he''s utterly bewitched!"

    "Pomelo, I''ll soon be a True Immortal, master of all, right?" Lian Xi sounded unsure.

    "Absolutely! I''ve calcted it; a massive transformation awaits you, setting you on an invincible path. He may lead now, but soon he''ll be your little ything. Next time, it''s your turn on top, and no more humming and hawing under his influence!" the little white tiger said fiercely.

    "But... I feel so guilty. I never asked for his consent," Lian Xi''s eyes wereplex, deep in thought.

    "Consent be damned! Speak up now, and you''ll let the duck slip through your fingers! A true woman acts first and reportster. Once we take the lead, we''ll settle his old scores of ungentlemanly conduct. Think about it¡ªhe''s been so indecent; doesn''t that anger you?" the little white tiger coaxed.

    "I am angry!" Lian Xi pouted, recalling the War Princess and feeling her teeth itch with irritation.

    "Such men need to be put in their ce, or they''ll do as they please. We need to teach him a lesson, make sure he behaves!" the little white tiger stirred her up.

    "Put him in his ce, yes... alright!" With that, Lian Xi''s thoughts cleared.

    "What are you muttering about?"

    Just then, Yun Xiao turned and smiled, asking.

    "Nothing, nothing!" Lian Xi, never having schemed before, felt her heart race nervously, herrge eyes darting about, unable to meet Yun Xiao''s gaze.

    "Are you rested?" Yun Xiao coughed, his smile like a fresh breeze.

    "Not yet!" Lian Xi hurriedly crossed her legs, her voice tinged with panic. "Don''te over, I''m not mentally prepared yet."

    "You need mental preparation for the third time?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Shoot, I''ve given myself away..." Lian Xi coughed awkwardly, quickly changing the subject. "Umm, you seem to have improved again?"

    "Oh, yes," Yun Xiao stretched, his muscles rxing. "You truly are my lucky star. To think that our love could broaden my path on the journey to immortality."

    "It''s just luck, sheer luck," Lian Xiughed, her smile forced and tinged with a touch of pain and guilt.

    Yun Xiao''s vigor, now more radiant than ever, hade at the cost of her weakness.

    He smiled at this straightforward and endearing girl, his heart filled with wonder. How could the incarnation of transcending cmity, a being of such immense power, be so adorable?

    Chen Xi too had her charms, though she was lonelier, often wearing a stern expression.

    "When do you n to tear open her heart and insert the stone? You could force it now," Blue Star whispered covertly.

    "Not now." Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Why? You said it''s just a memory, not another person," Blue Star pressed quietly.

    "If it''s a memory, once inserted, she''ll know everything, and why would shee to me a third time?" Yun Xiao looked up at the sky, marked by celestial storms, and said coldly, "The body double and the blood ve have reached their limits; I can''t find a way to be a True Immortal just yet. I need to grow stronger in the mortal realm, and only my original form can break through. Time is tight, her third time could save me a lot of effort."

    "Forgot what happenedst time on the third?" Blue Star remarked coolly.

    "I''ve learned my lesson; I won''t let her die again," Yun Xiao said, his brow furrowed.

    "Oh really?" Blue Star chuckled. "Back to the first question, are you truly certain that Chen Xi''s transcending cmity crystal is just another memory and not a Chen Xi that could kill Lian Xi?"

    "I am certain," Yun Xiao nodded firmly.

    "That''s not certainty, that''s hope, desire. You can''t bear to lose either incarnation of transcending cmity, so <em>one person, two memories</em> is the only way to save them both," Blue Star exined.

    "You don''t understand," Yun Xiao inhaled deeply, looking earnestly at Lian Xi. "In deep interactions between people, many truths can be felt. Chen Xi is her dream, and through Lian Xi''s body, she''s responding to my pursuit..."

    With that, Yun Xiao closed his eyes. "Truly, I feel it. She''s responding to me, matching my steps."

    "Be bolder; maybe it''s the Primordial Immortal Ancestor matching you," Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    Yun Xiao smiled slightly. No matter what Blue Star said, nothing could shake his resolve. He looked at the charming Lian Xi, and in his mind, he also saw a figure in a dragon robe, their expressions ovepping.

    "In the morning, she is sunny and clear; at noon, she is noble and transcendent... But, no matter the time of day, she is one and the same!" Yun Xiao dered with conviction.

    Red Moon, having heard all this, came to a conclusion, "Basically, he''s okay as long as he still has his Senior Sister Zhao!"

 Chapter 493: Azure Sky Starfire!

    Chapter 493: Azure Sky Starfire!

    In the afternoon, Yun Xiao continued to ponder over his self-created sword techniques, while Lian Xi,zy as a kitten, nestled in his arms for a rest.

    Suddenly, a thunderp shook the heavens and roused all the Yin-Yang Immortals stationed near the Immortal Asylum!

    Yun Xiao was near the Immortal Asylum too. Hearing the sound, he looked up to see a figure in ck and gold appearing above the firmament of the Immortal Asylum.

    "Yun Xiao! Lian Xi! The Heavenly Immortalmands you two to appear at once!"

    That voice, stern and solemn, fell like a torrent of swords.

    "The Human Zenith Immortal?" Yun Xiao stood up, a frost rising in his eyes.

    Before he could move, Dean Yu appeared nearby and advised, "Ignore him. It''s better to wait until Arbiter Lues back. Who knows what they''re up to?"

    "Mhm." Lian Xi quickly released Yun Xiao''s hand, her cheeks flushing. "Wow, Master. You really arrived quickly."

    "Yes," Dean Yu said with a squint and a smile, suddenly reflecting, "I suppose my little disciple is all grown up now.""Ah!" Lian Xi''s face turned peach-red. Wishing she could vanish into the earth, she could only turn and re at Yun Xiao, her mind in turmoil, "It¡¯s all your fault for choosing such a ce, with the elders nearby..."

    Just then, losing his patience, the Human Zenith Immortal dered coldly, "By daring to y a True Immortal of the Celestial Court, you''ve vited the celestialw. Whether in heaven or earth, you only face a dead end. Come out and confess, and you might suffer less. If you keep hiding, then I''ll set the Nine Hells aze, and let all beings pay with their lives first!"

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao knew that such a merciless enemy was his undoing.

    Yun Xiao, though often greedy and foolish, still had his limits. But these so-called True Immortals of the Celestial Court, who descended only to devour the lives of countless beings¡­ they had no limits!

    Those without limits, in a sense, were invincible!

    "Lil Xi, rest here for now. I¡¯ll go up and handle this," Yun Xiao said gravely.

    "But it¡¯s not yet time for the final battle." Lian Xi shook her head.

    "I know, so I''ll figure out a way, don''t worry!" Yun Xiao said, then turned to Dean Yu, "She''s a bit exhausted. Please look after her for me."

    "Are you going up there alone?" Dean Yu asked with concern.

    "Alone? Not really." Yun Xiao smiled faintly, shared a final nce with Dean Yu and Lian Xi, and then turned and disappeared into the forest. He did not ascend directly! It seemed he was off to seek someone.

    "Does he have other powerful allies?" Dean Yu asked.

    Lian Xi thought of that war princess and pouted, "It seems so."

    "Hmm... now we can only hope he manages to dy until Arbiter Lu returns," Dean Yu said with a worried expression.

    "Master, you can also count on me," Lian Xi said, biting her lip.

    "You? Have you grown weaker?" Dean Yu asked, concerned.

    Lian Xi spoke with full confidence, "This is the lowest point in my life, crossing the barrier before me, I will..."

    Before she could finish, a sword light suddenly shot up into the sky nearby, drawing away Dean Yu''s attention.

    "What were you saying?" Dean Yu asked.

    "Nothing!" Lian Xi, frustrated, crossed her arms and stared at the sky.

    Suddenly, Dean Yu handed her a jade bottle.

    "What is this?" Lian Xi asked.

    Dean Yu coughed and said, "If you don''t want to be a mother at fifteen, drink this soon; it''s effective within 12 hours."

    "..." Lian Xi fell silent. Despite the extreme embarrassment, she quickly grabbed it and hid it, afraid of being seen by others.

    "Lil Xi!" Dean Yu suddenly became excited.

    "Master, what is it?" Lian Xi asked.

    "Look at your man," Dean Yu said, trembling slightly as she pointed to the heavens, "When he fought the Sky Source Immortal, he was just like this, enveloped in a devilish aura and demonic energy, fiercely brutal and terrifying..."

    "Really?" Lian Xi hurriedly looked up.

    There in the sky, was a white figure surrounded by demonic energy, wrapped in familiar streams of blood dragon mist. As Dean Yu said, it was exceedingly sinister!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    This was an aura that instinctively repulsed Lian Xi. For reasons unknown, she felt an overwhelming disgust!

    It was hard for her to imagine that the pure, upright young man who had once been intimate with her could suddenly venture into such an extreme, bing someone she found unapproachable.

    "Thank goodness..." Dean Yu breathed a sigh of relief, "Actually,pared tost time, his humanity has surfaced, seemingly suppressing the demonic and devilish aura. He appears normal now. Last time, he was a lot more frightening."

    Lian Xi stared silently at the white figure in the sky, wordless.

    Dean Yu continued, "But with this, he seems stronger, more bnced, doesn''t he?"

    Indeed, she was right! This time, breaking through seven stages, Yun Xiao''s true self regained leadership in this trinity, prioritizing the human aspect, with demon on his left and devil on his right. The Palm Sword and Life Sigil represented his perfect state!

    The true self was the foundation! With a solid foundation, he himself felt a surge inbat power!

    "Human Zenith Sword Immortal, with eight Sword Rings ascending to the heavens?" Yun Xiao floated in the sky, under the watchful eyes of the Yin-Yang Immortals below, and approached the ck-clothed elder.

    This elder moved upon his Sovereign Sword!

    His sword bore eight Sword Rings and 8,000,000yers of Sword Aura, its ck and gold stripes arranged like a barcode, each segment featuring a Sword Ring with an insect totem, looking immensely sinister.

    Such was the Human Zenith Sword Immortal, once revered as the Ancestor of Swordsmanship in the Primordial Ruins and admired by all.

    Now, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul beneath Yun Xiao''s feet, with 11 Sword Rings and almost 10,000,000yers of Sword Aura, instantly struck terror into the Human Zenith Immortal''s heart.

    "Have you descended from the Celestial Court as well? Don''t you know thews?" the Human Zenith Immortal said coldly.

    "Whatws? Enlighten me," Yun Xiao replied coolly.

    "Hmph. Cheeky brat. Pretending like you know nothing." The Human Zenith Immortal snorted. He had no patience for idle talk with Yun Xiao and sternly said, "You should know your ce. Hurry and bring Lian Xi with you, ande with me to the Primordial Ruins to apologize to the Heavenly Immortal!"

    "What an attitude! Asking me toe die in person, I thought she was right behind you," Yun Xiao said.

    The Human Zenith Immortal scoffed, "What are you that the Heavenly Immortal should move for you?"

    "I see." Yun Xiaoughed dryly, nodding, "Alright, I''ll go up and meet this peerless Heavenly Immortal."

    "You finally know fear," the Human Zenith Immortal said with a shrug, turning to soar into the sky on his Sovereign Sword, his voice cold, "Follow, and stop dawdling!"

    However, Yun Xiao remained suspended in ce, unmoving.

    The Human Zenith Immortal had not gone far when he coldly looked back, "Are you ying games with me?"

    "I''m not ying games," Yun Xiao replied, his gaze chillingly calm, "I will meet her, but I don''t need a bug like you to lead the way. I''ve already in your two brothers, and you too are an eyesore to me."

    "What do you mean?" the Human Zenith Immortal''s face twisted in anger.

    "It means you are dead!" As soon as Yun Xiao finished speaking, the six-foot Sovereign Sword under his feet instantly transformed into a three-inch Flying Sword, which he grasped in his hand.

    His eyes locked onto the Human Zenith Immortal with a frosty re as the Flying Sword burst forth in a deadly strike!

    This Flying Sword, imbued with the illusions and demon magic of 11 Dreamsea Abalones, whistled across the sky.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The path of the sword zed a brilliant azure starry river across the heavens!

    It was dazzling!

    So dazzling it seemed like an illusion!

    Yun Xiao had once used Starry Night within the Immortal Asylum, and that strike was dazzling too, but this one waspletely different. The former was a mass ughter, but today''s strike split the heavens with a single sh!

    Humming intensely, the starry river surged, its brilliance obscuring the sky!

    Yet, this was only a part of the sword''s power.

    Its true masteryy in its maniption of space. As the Flying Sword streaked through this starry river, it continuously wove through the void and reality, stirring a spatial storm that condensed the starry river, like a tearing starfire, instantly engulfing the Human Zenith Immortal!

    Yun Xiao had named this sword technique Azure Sky Starfire! It was also a grand fusion of Flying Sword techniques, its foundation derived from Ling Chen''s Divine Sky Sword Arts!

    This sword appeared out of nowhere, instantly dazzling the heavens and earth!

    Many eximed in awe! And the Human Zenith Immortal, a lifelong swordsman, saw his faith in his sword copse in that instant!

    "What the hell?" The Human Zenith Immortal fiercely gripped his sword, attempting a strike, but under the absolute supremacy of the Azure Sky Starfire, he was instantly devoured!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The ripping space twisted past, the starry river bursting with light!

    After the storm, above the vast sky, only a suspended skeleton remained, still wearing a look of bewilderment.

    "How dull!" Yun Xiao did not even bother to absorb the Sword Soul of the Human Zenith Immortal, instead lifting his gaze to the heavens, "I hope you''re more challenging."

 Chapter 494: I Want to be the Creator!

    Chapter 494: I Want to be the Creator!

    With a single sword stroke, Yun Xiao felled another True Immortal!

    After the sh of starfire passed, the heavens shimmered with azure light, leaving behind a fractured rainbow in the sky.

    Apanied by the sight of a young man in white wielding his sword, the scene was so strikingly handsome that the onlookers were rendered speechless.

    The spectators gaped upward, breathless for a long while, their hearts trembling with awe.

    ¡°All the Three Immortals were in by him alone!¡± a deep exmation from the crowd caused shivers down the spines of many.

    They had thought Lian Xi was a savior, but out of nowhere, Yun Xiao emerged as a Sword Immortal, sword in hand, sweeping through the three tyrants of the Primordial Ruins!

    ¡°With someone like him, what True Immortal could cause fear?¡±

    ¡°He truly is resolute in his actions!¡±

    ¡°Yet, those who fell to his sword rarely were the innocent¡­¡±Despite the ongoing crises across worlds, the human cultivators couldn''t help but feel profoundly moved.

    The death of the Human Zenith Immortal was as swift as a blink, and the impact of this event on the world would be evesting.

    After a long while, people began toe to their senses.

    More and more joined Yun Xiao, standing by his side.

    ¡°Yun Xiao,¡± Lian Xi floated in the air, her voice soft, ¡°in a war between two armies, envoys should not be killed. Why did you kill him?¡±

    Yun Xiao replied, ¡°Being kind to him would only dy his inevitable death. I spared him a prolonged fate.¡±

    ¡°Such utterly heartless beings are tough to eliminate even in the underworld; they deserve to suffer in hell for a while,¡± Dean Yu remarked, still not fully satisfied.

    ¡°His soul is here,¡± Yun Xiao said as he flicked the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, presenting a bewildered remnant soul before Dean Yu.

    Dean Yu took the remnant soul, gave it a cold nce, and then thanked Yun Xiao, ¡°Much obliged.¡±

    She secured the soul and then, together with the others, watched Yun Xiao in silence.

    ¡°Do you n to go meet that Heavenly Immortal?¡± Dean Yu asked.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Yun Xiao nodded seriously, his resolve clear in his eyes.

    ¡°Given her strength, and the fact that she could scare off such formidable beings, I fear¡­¡± Dean Yu expressed her concern.

    ¡°Dean, I choose to confront her, to let her know I''m not holed up in the Nine Hells. No matter the oue, at least it won¡¯t reach this far,¡± Yun Xiao said with a calm determination.

    Worst case scenario, the Nine Hells might just burn. The ze could easily spread through the world¡¯s folds into the Divine Continent, obliterating all obsessions and hopes.

    Hearing this, the crowd bowed their heads in resignation, their faces painted with helpless eptance.

    Dean Yu paused for a moment, her gaze softening considerably as she looked at Yun Xiao, a tinge of guilt in her voice, "I owe you an apology."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "I once thought you were brutal and reckless, unaware of the consequences of your actions. Now I see that you care for all life far more than we imagined. No matter how untamed you appear on the outside, your heart remains gentle and clear..."

    Her eyes briefly met Lian Xi¡¯s, and she chuckled, shaking her head, "Lian Xi was right to trust you so steadfastly."

    The words made even Yun Xiao a bit bashful.

    He chuckled, shaking his head, not dwelling on it further. Instead, he addressed everyone, "Lian Xi and I will handle the matter in the Primordial Ruins. Please, stay in the Nine Hells and keep the people safe."

    "You two..." Dean Yu looked at the young pair, her worry evident.

    "My mind is made up," Yun Xiao stated firmly.

    "Very well!" Dean Yu nodded. "Enough talk, I wish both of you children of destiny and true saviors sess on your quest!"

    <em>And try to hold out until the day after tomorrow</em>, she added in her mind, keeping the hope in her heart.

    The day after tomorrow was when Arbiter Lu might return. Of course, he had said within three days, so it could be sooner.

    "Yun Xiao." Lian Xi was relieved to hear she could apany him. She feared Yun Xiao would leave her behind to venture alone. If so, not only would she be left anxious and scared, but there might not be a third chance¡­

    The little white tiger, however, found it odd, muttering, "What dangerous deed is this punk nning now, taking Lian Xi along as if he¡¯s some yboy?"

    Could he still be wanting something?

    "I still don''t trust him one bit!" the little white tiger scoffed coldly.

    Before departing, Yun Xiao''s thoughts suddenly shifted towards the Immortal Asylum below.

    The octagonal tree stump shaped Immortal Asylum, now devoid of the divine steles and the illusionary sea, reverted to its ancient ckish gray form. Compared to the grand structures of the Primordial Ruins, it was unremarkable.

    Yet, recalling the dark-robed youth and a monster with three heads and six arms within, Yun Xiao knew the secrets of the Immortal Asylum might surpass many imaginations.

    "That Heavenly Immortal was the one backing the Three Immortals. So, she must be aware of the Immortal Asylum. Maybe it''s the exact reason she descended to the mortal realm. First, for the lives of all beings across the myriad worlds, and second, for the Immortal Asylum," Yun Xiao mused, frowning, "The question is, how many in the Celestial Court are aware of the Immortal Asylum? And after her, could there be othersing?"

    With more people, the troubles in the Nine Hells would inevitably be endless.

    "We must take control of the Immortal Asylum, only then can my homnd live in peace!" Yun Xiao thought. At that moment, he remembered the Nian residing within him and asked, "Nian, do you know how to control the Immortal Asylum?"

    The Nian, hidden within him,ughed coldly, "I do know!"

    "Teach me," Yun Xiao demanded.

    "Why should I teach you?" the Nian scoffed disdainfully.

    "Because I saved you from the Immortal Asylum and granted you freedom," Yun Xiao replied.

    "You spout the most colossal nonsense!" the Nian roared. "I could have escaped on my own. You stopped me and even stole my physical form. Now you''ve imprisoned me within you, yet im to have given me freedom? You twist the truth outrageously. Are you even human?"

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao paused, realizing there was some truth in its words.

    It turned out he was the viin in his own story!

    "Let''s make a deal," Yun Xiao suggested persuasively. "You teach me to control the Immortal Asylum, and when I grow stronger, I''ll grant you true freedom with a better body. By then, you might have recovered enough to surpass your former self."

    "Spit on that! Believing you would be idiotic! Unless you meet my demand now, I will never teach you," the Nian sneered.

    "What is your condition?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Right now, this instant, get out of my body and give me my freedom!" the Nian snarled viciously.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "You''ve got to be kidding. You were the one who swallowed me first," Yun Xiaoughed.

    "I don''t care! You want the Immortal Asylum, give me my freedom!" the Nian growled.

    "Hold on," Yun Xiao said with a sly smile. "I understand now. You probably don''t know how to control the Immortal Asylum at all. You''re just trying to trick me."

    "Funny, but I do know." The Nian chuckled.

    "I really don''t believe you," Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "You don''t believe? I''ll tell you, you just need to..." Just then, the Nian stopped mid-sentence and spat, "Trying to trick me into spilling the beans? Kid, I''ve crapped bigger things than the worlds you''ve lived in!"

    Yun Xiao knew, given the current circumstances, even if it knew, it wouldn''t tell. So he stopped wasting his effort. He looked up, his eyes sweeping across the vast expanse of the Nine Hells.

    The Three Immortals were dead.

    Yet themon folk of the mortal realm were still sinking under the weight of the All Life Devouring Gu and Heavenly Decay, their lives draining away to feed a True Immortal of the Celestial Court!

    This revealed that she was the true instigator!

    "Still, even if I go through all the hardships of defeating her, with the Immortal Asylum still present, I''m worried greedy eyes will emerge endlessly and bring continuous catastrophe to the mortal realm."

    When Yuan Xianjun first came to the Nine Hells, he dared to set the whole world aze!

    What about the countless True Immortal beings drawn here by the Immortal Asylum, like voracious locusts?

    "Yun Xiao, I advise you to stop struggling for the souls of this realm," the Nian suddenly said coldly.

    "What do you mean?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not just the Nine Hells, all life in this entire realm is doomed! There¡¯s no surviving this," the Nian sneered coldly.

    "Just because of the Immortal Asylum?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "Of course!" The Nian¡¯s eyes opened wide on his face as he looked towards the Immortal Asylum, chuckling, "This ce was once disguised as a minor prison, holding only a crippled Nian for millennia without incident. But now, I''ve escaped, and the ruckus has been huge!"

    "And then?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    The Nian gazed deeply at the Immortal Asylum. "Its essence is the most mysterious prison in all the realms, holding the most dangerous freaks and monsters of generations. It''s been sealed so long it was forgotten, but its terror always reveals just the tip of the iceberg in the annals of history. Even just that tip is enough to attract countless greed-driven beings."

    "You mean?"

    "Yes! Now that the master of the Immortal Asylum is missing, these greed-driven beings will swarm like sharks to blood. Each one of them will be far more terrifying and powerful than you can imagine," the Nian said gravely.

    "The master of the Immortal Asylum is missing? I haven''t heard about this," Yun Xiao said.

    "Nonsense, if they weren''t missing, could I have escaped?" The Nian red.

    The Nian''s words undoubtedly confirmed Yun Xiao''s worst fears.

    "Because it will attract these greedy beings, all life across the myriad worlds is doomed?" Yun Xiao muttered to himself, head bowed.

    "Of course!" the Nian scoffed coldly, "The Immortal Asylum is a crown reaching to the heavens, and the worldly masses you care about are just ants on that crown. If no one fought over it, it might be fine. But once the battle starts, your mortal realm won''t stand a chance. No matter where you hide, you''ll be obliterated in an instant like dust!"

    "So many souls across all the myriad worlds, if they were to perish, would the contenders not fear divine retribution?" Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Divine retribution?" The Nian looked upward in astonishment. "With such high talents, how can you harbor such naive thoughts? You don''t even understand the essence of the Immortal Path. How have you survived until now?"

    "Then tell me, what is the essence of the Immortal Path?" Yun Xiao asked earnestly.

    "It''s simple," the Nian exined deeply. "What you call <em>divine retribution</em> means punishment from above, implying a supreme creator, the setter of the rules of the game. However, within this Dao Realm, there is no such <em>creator</em> to ensure fairness. If there were, the world wouldn''t have disparities of strength and status."

    "No creator?" Yun Xiao''s expression turned curious.

    "Of course not," the Nian rolled its eyes. "Only the most ignorant beings believe in the myth of a creator. It''s clear, if such a supreme being existed, the Dao Realm wouldn''t be as brutal."

    "Brutal..." Yun Xiao''s eyes deepened. "Is that what you call the essence of the Immortal path?"

    "Exactly!" The Nian scoffed. "In essence, this entire boundless expanse is under the dominion of the celestialdder. It''s a survival of the fittest scenario, with no supreme being in control. Concepts like morality and virtue are just flowers atop the Immortal civilization''s head. They''re pretty, but fragile. When life-and-death struggles arise, these flowers lose their meaning."

    With that, it nced towards the Immortal Asylum, coldly stating, "All it brings is a struggle for life and death."

    Yun Xiao fell silent.

    The Nian continued unabated,ughing, "Put simply, the world''s barriers are the protection mechanism for the weak in the Dao Realm, its greatest kindness. The essence of the Immortal path is a food chain. A True Immortal descending from the heavens to harvest lives is no different from you hunting in the mountains. You may resist, but please spare me the moral indignation; it''s quiteical."

    "I understand," Yun Xiao nodded deeply.

    "Share your insight," the Nian demanded proudly.

    Yun Xiao, with a profound look and a calm voice, said, "All disorder and injustice, all cruelty and reality, arise because this worldcks a creator."

    "Ah?" The Nian was stunned. What kind of insight was that?

    It had intended to provoke Yun Xiao into maintaining his inner beliefs and continue fighting for the beings of the myriad worlds, perhaps even securing its release in the process.

    "And? Is that it?" the Nian asked impatiently.

    "There''s more," Yun Xiao lifted his head, the confusion in his eyes clearing, a burst of resolve in his heart. He dered grandly, "I want to be the creator, to set the rules of the game myself."

    The Nian felt as if it had swallowed filth. Unable to bear it, it retracted its eyes back into Yun Xiao''s body, cursing as it went, "Damn fool."

 Chapter 495 - Dragon Swallowing the Sun and Moon!

    <h4>Chapter 495 - Dragon Swallowing the Sun and Moon!</h4>

    Leaving the Nine Hells behind, Yun Xiao, with Lian Xi by his side, ascended into the skies aboard his Sovereign Sword.

    Perched upon the de, Lian Xi''s expression was unusual, marked by difort.

    "What''s bothering you?" Yun Xiao asked softly, his gaze fixed towards the Primordial Ruins.

    "It''s nothing..." Lian Xi shook her head.

    "Is it the demonic and devilish aura around me that unsettles you?" he asked, his arm encircling her slender waist.

    "Just a bit," she murmured quietly.

    "I think it''s more than <i>just</i> a bit,''" Yun Xiao observed.

    "It''s really nothing," Lian Xi looked up, insisting.

    Though she imed as much, Yun Xiao could feel her instinctive resistance against him, a reflex she herself could not control.

    "Lil Xi." Yun Xiao''s eyes glinted as he spoke earnestly into her ear, "Please believe, no matter how my appearance changes, what power I wield, or thepany I keep... my heart will never change, nor will my feelings for you."

    Lian Xi gazed at him, silently nodding.

    "How strange, my treasure seems so mncholic today," Yun Xiao remarked yfully.

    "Not at all," Lian Xi bit her lip, then, looking ahead, she said, "I was just wondering how we''re going to possibly face that Heavenly Immortal? Since shemands the millions in the Primordial Ruins, her power on her own turf could multiply many times over. I''m sure she''ll be far more powerful than the Three Immortals, reaching levels beyond ourprehension."

    "Right." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Are we going to directly meet her in the Human Zenith Ruins?" Lian Xi asked.

    "Of course not,¡± Yun Xiao shook his head, "that would surely be our demise."

    "Then how are we going to draw her attention without involving the Nine Hells?" Lian Xi pondered aloud.

    Yun Xiao looked ahead, his eyes deep with thought. "I n to pay a visit to the Celestial Sourcecore again, see if we can stir up some trouble, make a bit of noise."

    "Oh, good idea! Maybe we can see if there''s a way we can contain the corruption too..." Lian Xi said.

    "Do you still have thepass that controls the Primordial Ruins?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Right here." From within her robes, Lian Xi produced apass, ancient and ornate, its center engraved with an image of a divine ark between heaven and earth, surrounded by a star map. "This is what the Mystic Earth Immortal used to merge the sun and earth too."

    "Let me think on it," Yun Xiao said as he took thepass, his attention fully absorbed by this <i>helm</i> of the Primordial Ruins.

    After a moment, Lian Xi asked, "Are you nning to steer the Primordial Ruins far enough from the Nine Hells?"

    "That solution would treat the symptom, not the cause. No matter how far we flee, if the enemy intends toe to the Nine Hells, they''d merely be dyed," Yun Xiao replied, shaking his head.

    "Then what..." Lian Xi started to say.

    Holding thepass, Yun Xiao felt an insight as he gazed at the converging sun and moon growing closer in the sky. "You say the Celestial Sourcecore is a form of energy. How does it gather without dispersing? Could there be a shell that ensures its slow release and also allows it to be moved? And could that shell be man-made?"

    Lian Xi thought for a moment. "I recall my master mentioning that the Celestial Sourcecore is enveloped by a formation, extremely intricate, and originating from the Celestial Court..."

    "Even if it''s from the Celestial Court, they would have taught mortals how to use it, right? Even if it''s just superficial use. Otherwise, the Mystic Earth Immortal couldn''t have aligned the sun and moon," Yun Xiao continued, his eyes lighting up. "It¡¯s said that it took the Three Immortals over 100 years to align the sun and moon, to unleash the power of Heavenly Decay. What were they oveing all those years?"

    "Are you suggesting it was the formation of the Celestial Sourcecore?" Lian Xi suddenly realized.

    "Exactly." Yun Xiao nodded, looking at thepass in his hand. "If this thing once controlled the alignment of the sun and moon, it might be rted to that formation. Let''s go try it out!"

    "How should we try?" Lian Xi was still confused.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes burned with enthusiasm. "Formations, sigils, matrices, these <i>technical</i> things, no matter howplex, can''t defeat me."

    As the two spoke, they had already stealthily entered the Primordial Ruins.

    Compared to the Nine Hells, the tens of millions of residents of the Primordial Ruins were more fervent. Even with the Three Immortals gone, they continued their desperate practice of the Ascension Technique in the streets as if possessed, chanting and shifting their worship from the Three Immortals to the Heavenly Immortals.

    "The destruction of the Three Immortals has only made their faith stronger and purer."

    This was troubling news.

    "These True Immortals from the Celestial Court... why must they be so cruel? This world was once bustling and vibrant, a myriad of flowers blooming, yet they turned it into a veritable hell..." Lian Xi couldn''t stand to watch, her eyes reddening.

    She asked Yun Xiao with some anger, "Are all the True Immortals of the Great Dao Celestial Realm like this?"

    "The world may well be a dyeing vat, where all kinds of people are mixed. Perhaps we''re just unlucky. Don''t be too pessimistic," Yun Xiaoforted her.

    Though he was theforter, after his conversation with the Nian, his heart was colder than Lian Xi''s.

    Together, they watched the human tragedy of the Primordial Ruins unfold through the thick mist, quietly reaching the zing proximity of the Celestial Sourcecore. Waves of golden and silver heat assaulted them, making their bodies burn, their foreheads sweat, and their hair smoke¡ªa truly unbearable ordeal.

    The intense light engulfed everything before them.

    With a solemn gaze, Yun Xiao crossed the void on his Sovereign Sword, both hands gripping thepass, staring intently at the Celestial Sourecore before him.

    Lian Xi held her tongue, curious about how Yun Xiao would proceed.

    d in white, the young man drew forth his Prison Warden Sigil with a flourish. It was aplex sigil with over 9,000,000 intricate Runes and many hundreds of thousands of smaller formations that formed a nine-headed dragon twining around his fingertips. Then, with a precise touch, he infused it into thepass.

    Before their eyes, the power of the Life Sigil tookmand of thepass, dyeing it a deep violet.

    During this transformation, the Primordial Compass visibly altered.

    "Can your Life Sigil actually merge with an Immortal treasure?" Lian Xi asked in amazement.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes flickered with purple light as he exined, "Thispass isn''t just a magic treasure; it''s the heart of a formation. The Primordial Ruins are driven by countless such formations, and the outer formation of the Celestial Sourcecore is part of it... This means, thepass is the key to the Primordial Ruins!"

    His Prison Warden Sigil had five forms of transformation.

    One form, known as Prison Ward, could merge with a magic treasure to enhance its power.

    Another form, called Formation God, allowed control over all formations, manipting their structure.

    Since thepass was both a magic treasure and a formation core, Yun Xiao¡¯s Life Sigil should be effective in both forms.

    "Wow!" In Lian Xi''s eyes, thepass trembled and morphed, emitting a beam of violet light that even reached towards the Celestial Sourcecore.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement. "Thispass is merely a basic key with limited ess. The formation of the Celestial Sourecore isplex, and I''ll need some time..."

    As for a <i>higher-level key</i>, Yun Xiao suspected it was not here in the mortal realm. Since the Celestial Sourcecore originated from the Celestial Court, its ultimate secrets were likely held there.

    Otherwise, if mortals were to control the higher-level key and deactivate the formation, wouldn''t that potentially lead to the copse of the Celestial Sourecore and catastrophic destruction?

    Having a basic key was sufficient for initial control.

    "Do you need time? It took the Three Immortals over 100 years to align the sun and moon. You..."

    Lian Xi had just murmured this when Yun Xiao suddenly halted his actions, turning to her, "Lian Xi, leave me and hide somewhere in the Primordial Ruins."

    "Why?" Lian Xi asked, visibly anxious.

    "I think I might be able to stop the continuous release of the Heavenly Decay. Once the Celestial Sourecore changes, the Heavenly Immortal might sense it ande hunting. It will be easier to manage her on my own," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "Can you really stop it?" Lian Xi was both surprised and thrilled, her expression animated with excitement.

    "No problem! Trust me," Yun Xiao dered with confidence. He was now in the strongest state he had ever been, blending the powers of human, devil, and demon, ready to take a risk.

    "But I..." Lian Xi, hearing of his intention to venture alone, was clearly anxious.

    "It''s okay, I''ll find you once I''m safe," Yun Xiao reassured her, gently patting her head.

    "Just be careful, I''m still waiting for your third..." Lian Xi started to say but abruptly stopped, almost biting her tongue.

    "Third what?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "Nothing! Just go on with it."

    With those words, Lian Xi dashed away, hiding so effectively she was almost impossible to find. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Once she was gone, Yun Xiao looked towards the direction of the Human Zenith Ruins, took a deep breath, and braced himself.

    "Let''s start!" Grasping thepass, he charged towards the Celestial Sourcecore, his entire being engulfed in the zing gold and silver mes.

    Facing the formidable power of the Celestial Sourcecore, Yun Xiao finally reached it, sensing the existence of the encasing formation.

    Amidst the radiant light, dense runes fluttered about like living creatures, countless in number, interweaving and ovepping, each segment performing a different function.

    Together, they formed a spherical barrier of formations,pletely enclosing the Celestial Sourcecore.

    "There must be hundreds of millions of inscriptions. A true product of the Celestial Court, impressivelyplex." Yun Xiao''s eyes zed with both awe and a fired-up spirit of challenge.

    Without another word, he pressed thepass against the surface of the Celestial Sourcecore formation.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Thepass trembled at first, then its violet dragon patterns suddenly replicated and spread, sprawling across the entirety of the Celestial Sourcecore.

    <i>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </i>Like a dragon swallowing the sun, the Celestial Sourcecore vibrated violently, unleashing a massive storm of energy that shook the surroundings!

    Had Yun Xiao not been prepared, he would have been blown away by the force.

    "From this moment, that Heavenly Immortal should sense the disturbance here." Yun Xiao''s gaze sharpened, his eyes even more intense.

    Time was of the essence!

    "To leverage this formation with just a basic key won''t do; controlling the inscriptions isn''t enough, I need my own power as the catalyst!"

    With that thought, Yun Xiao began channeling the mixed force of human, devil, and demon within him into thepass.

 Chapter 496 - Separating the Sun and Moon!

    <h4>Chapter 496 - Separating the Sun and Moon!</h4>

    <i>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </i>Under the assault of the violet dragon patterns, the entire surface of the Celestial Sourcecore was swiftly shrouded in a violet mist, transforming it into a colossal violet sphere!

    The gleam of gold and silver was devoured whole!

    The Primordial Ruins were plunged into a violet night, every face eerily masked in an unnatural shade of violet, giving off a chilling and bizarre air.

    Millions of steadfast cultivators, who had endured relentless training, suddenly felt a tremor. With shocked eyes, they stared at the heavens, their gazes clouded with confusion.

    "Who dares to y tricks!" A cold,manding voice of a woman erupted from the direction of the Human Zenith Ruins, her voice sweeping across thend, causing countless buildings in the ruins to tremble and copse.

    Undoubtedly, the Heavenly Immortal was on her way¡ªswiftly.

    "Yun Xiao, hurry!" Lian Xi, caught in the dense crowd, gazed up at the violet sky, her breath catching in rm.

    At the brightest point of the violet light, Yun Xiao was drenched in sweat!

    Despite having a body merged from three beings, the overwhelming drain nearly sucked him dry through thepass.

    "Fortunate that I broke through seven stages. Had I attempted this earlier, it would''ve been my doom!" Yun Xiao''s face was engulfed in the violet light.

    With the imminent threat of the Heavenly Immortal on his heels, and the scenes resembling hell from the millions of cultivators below and the Nine Hells, everything was vividly clear!

    Why practice cultivation? It was for this very moment!

    With a roar that seemed to shake the heavens, Yun Xiao''s belief was fervent as he bellowed mightily.

    "Break forth!" His roar echoed through the cosmos, striking like a thunderp in the ears of the cultivators, igniting a glint of humanity in their frenzied, vacant eyes.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The previously silent sun and moon now erupted in an even more deafening roar, their numerous violet lights surged like dragons, forcibly pulling at the Celestial Sourcecore!

    "The Yang rises to the heavens! The Yin sinks below! As they part, cmity disperses!" Yun Xiao didn''t grasp the mechanics behind the merging of the sun and moon unleashing the Heavenly Decay, but he knew it all started with their convergence. Perhaps their separation could fend off the imminent doom threatening their world!

    Others spent centuries on this research; Yun Xiao aplished it in less than a quarter of an hour.

    "It''s possible!" Yun Xiao understood the structure of the formation intimately; separating the celestial bodies was several times easier than their merging!

    The first step was to control the transformation of the array with thepass key, shifting from a single sphere into two.

    The next step was crucial! It involved separating the Yin and Yang energies, akin to pulling apart two lovers¡ªironically, a simpler task than uniting them.

    "Separate now!" Yun Xiao roared,mitting fully, unafraid of exhaustion.

    Above in the sky, the Celestial Sourcecore was first stretched into an ellipse, then indented in the middle, gradually forming a horizontal gourd.

    Of course, its sides were nearly equal!

    Then, with a swift twist, Yun Xiao erected the gourd upright, activating the formation through a tremor that caused the golden Yang energy to rise and the silver Yin energy to sink.

    <i>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!</i> The entire process was thunderous, shaking the very foundation of the heavens!

    Yun Xiao¡¯s maniption was incredibly precise and wless.

    The gold and silver colors separated at a speed visible to the naked eye.

    "We''re close to sess!" Lian Xi clenched her small hands, her heart pounding with excitement. She saw firsthand¡ªthe locals in the Primordial Ruins, no longer feeling the Heavenly Decay, suffered less. They no longer needed the Ascension Technique as much, and rity returned to their eyes.

    All signs pointed to Yun Xiao¡¯s actions being correct!

    If even they could recover, then the beings of the Nine Hells could undoubtedly do the same.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Just then, a pink peach blossom storm erupted on the left, charging towards Yun Xiao like a monstrous beast, its killing intent fierce and deafening.

    "Yun Xiao, be careful!" Lian Xi almost cried out, but she covered her mouth just in time to avoid detection.

    The Heavenly Immortal had arrived!

    Lian Xi saw her, and naturally, Yun Xiao sensed the neer behind him!

    Yet, Yun Xiao couldn''t afford to ponder over much at that terrifying moment; he gritted his teeth andpleted the final step.

    "Separate!"

    With a clear shout, the sun and moon trembled.

    The essence of Yin and Yang finally concluded their convergence, splitting decisively into two orbs of gold and silver.

    After the split, they even began to repel each other, one heading east and the other west. ording to this trajectory, they would inevitably return to the natural order of sunrise and moonset, forever at their farthest, forever in chase, never to meet again.

    "We''ve seeded!"

    At that moment, both Yun Xiao and Lian Xi could distinctly feel that the debilitating force that once swept across humanity was no more!

    At least for now, the chaos among mortals had paused.

    Before the Mystic Earth Immortal had manipted the convergence of the sun and moon, the people of the Primordial Ruins only practiced the Ascension Technique briefly each day. Most times, aside from their allegiance to the Three Immortals, their minds remained clear. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    At that level, even the Three Immortals found it hard to drastically drain the lifespan of the masses.

    Now, the sun and moon reverted to that state. As the two separated, voices of confusion swept through the Primordial Ruins.

    In the streets, each cultivator looked utterly bewildered.

    "Why am I here?"

    "Father, father, how did you age again?"

    "I''m so tired, why do I feel a decade older..."

    Their ability to voice confusion was proof that the All Life Devouring Gu alone couldn''t dominate everything.

    After a brief period of perplexity, the Primordial Ruins quickly became noisy and chaotic.

    That was because at least a third of the popce remembered the death of the Mystic Earth Immortal!

    They had been liberated then. And they had no idea why they had fallen victim once again.

    Among these people, there were those who knew the truth about the Ascension Technique. Now that the popce had regained some of their senses, the truth spread like wildfire.

    "A Heavenly Immortal? Who is that?"

    "I''ve always heard her voice. She must be the mother of the Three Immortals, the creator of the Primordial Ruins..."

    "Nonsense! Don¡¯t let the parasites in your brain deceive you. She''s just like the other three, stealing our lifespans!"

    Despite the influence of the All Life Devouring Gu, debates and disputes broke out among the people.

    But their arguments were soon interrupted by the spectacle in the sky¡ªthe storm of peach blossoms.

    "Look! That''s the Heavenly Immortal!"

    "The Heavenly Immortal descends from above, should we not kneel?"

    "Kneel for what? She¡¯s enraged and out to kill Yun Xiao! He¡¯s the one who slew the Mystic Earth Immortal; he''s trying to save us!"

    Even as they could reason, the chaos stirred by the parasites made rity elusive.

    For a moment, despite staring intently at the sky, the people continued their relentless arguing, each determined to discern the truth.

    "Sigh..."

    Above them, Yun Xiao felt a wave of dizziness wash over him.

    "I''ve overextended myself!"

    He took a deep breath, so weary he could barely stand, barely able to wield his Sovereign Sword, let alone make a quick escape.

    Behind him, a cold gleam had already fixed him in its sights.

    Yun Xiao pursed his lips and turned around.

    Before his eyes, amidst the countless fluttering peach blossoms, tens of thousands of pink petals swirled towards him, coalescing into the breathtakingly beautiful Heavenly Immortal...

 Chapter 497 - A Young Boy Against the Cruelty of the Immortal Path

    <h4>Chapter 497 - A Young Boy Against the Cruelty of the Immortal Path</h4>

    <i>BUZZ! </i>Countless delicate peach blossoms, so abundant they spiraled before Yun Xiao''s very eyes.

    He stared intently, and amidst the fragrant sea of peach, the Heavenly Immortal d in floral attire appeared, dreamlike and ethereal. She seemed young, in the full bloom of her twenties, her face tender and youthful. Yet, her demeanor held a lofty and unapproachable chill.

    This was a True Immortal, transcending the mundane, before whom mortals could only prostrate in awe.

    Her aura, purely celestial, radiated an inherent nobility, clearly born amidst the clouds.

    She gave Yun Xiao a feeling of cool detachment, even cruel!

    Even as Yun Xiao had now disrupted her grand design, severing her from the faith power of all beings across myriad worlds, no trace of fury showed in her eyes. There was only a profound indifference, as if she saw Yun Xiao not as a person, but as an inconsequential beast or a pebble that had merely stirred trouble.

    Among the swirling peach blossoms, she wasted no time; with a flick of her hand, a piece of pure ck cloth flew towards Yun Xiao!

    As the ck cloth unfolded, resembling a giant bag, it hissed through the air. In the blink of an eye, it expanded a thousand meters, absorbing all the light of the sun and moon that touched it. The space beneath was plunged into a profound darkness, as if night itself had descended!

    If Yun Xiao was right, this object was a celestial treasure, far moreplex and advanced than anymon magic treasure.

    In an instant, darkness enveloped thend, covering even over Yun Xiao.

    Below on the ground, including Lian Xi, many were tense on behalf of Yun Xiao.

    "Two things. Thepass and the Peach Blossom Elixir, bring them," the Heavenly Immortalmanded with cold, imperious lips, leaving no room for defiance.

    "Impossible," Yun Xiao replied calmly, munching on a handful of Heavenly Dao Sariras.

    "Then I shall eliminate you and take them myself," she dered, her patience worn thin.

    She had no mind to exchange further words.

    As soon as her words fell, the thousand-meter expanse of darkness dramatically contracted, enveloping him from all directions, as if the entire world was closing in.

    Yun Xiao tried to escape, rapidly wielding the Sovereign Sword, but still couldn''t break free from the engulfing dark firmament.

    No matter where he flew, the dark veil chased him until it closed into aplete ck sphere, trapping Yun Xiao within!

    This disy of disparity in strength made all beings in the Primordial Ruins gasp, their eyes filled with even greater reverence for the Heavenly Immortal.

    "Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal, she is a Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court."

    "How dare Yun Xiao so boldly defy the heavens?"

    The All Life Devouring Gu thrived once more, multiplying and dominating the minds of the masses.

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The dark cloth bag kept shrinking. At this rate, it seemed the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal intended topress Yun Xiao into nothing but a pulp.

    Throughout this ordeal, her expression remained as cold as the ckest night.

    Meanwhile, the Primordial Ruins erupted in a tumult!

    "Yun Xiao!!" Lian Xi''s eyes grew bloodshot. Her fists clenched, she was about to break from the crowd.

    "Don''t go! You''re at your weakest now, going there means death! He has already separated the sun and moon, in the Three Immortals, and relieved the suffering of the masses! And this woman, descending to wreak havoc, just needs to be reported, and she''ll be dealt with!" the little white tiger eximed.

    "What do you mean?" Lian Xi paused, perplexed.

    The little white tiger gritted its teeth, "If he dies, it''s no matter, his name was made, his mission aplished."

    Lian Xi looked at the little white tiger in disbelief.

    In the next moment, she took a step, poised to storm the heavens!

    Just then, the dark cloth bag had shrunk to just over a person''s height, threatening Yun Xiao.

    Many couldn''t bear to watch!

    Suddenly, with a loud boom, the bag seemed to catch, and despite its frantic shrinking, it could not reduce any further.

    "What''s that?" Everyone looked up, only to see the object wrapped by the bag taking the shape of a coffin.

    <i>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </i>The ck bag twisted like the stomach of a vicious beast, yet no matter how it contorted, it could notpress the coffin, which even began to mark the bag with its sharp edges.

    "What''s going on..." Lian Xi and the little white tiger both looked on in shock.

    Yet amidst her shock, Lian Xi''s eyes brimmed with tears, weeping with joy.

    Seeing this, the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal finally furrowed her brows, her pretty face marred by displeasure.

    "What''s the matter? Didn''t you eat? Put some more effort into it," Yun Xiao said, his voice calm yet provocative sounding from within the bag.

    "You reek of demon energy, have you be a coffin spirit?" the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal coldly stated.

    "And you? What are you? A Heavenly Immortal stooping to dirty deeds, somewhat shameful, isn''t it?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    Hearing this, the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal shook her head, her eyes filled with cold scorn, "Ignorant."

    No matter what she said, Yun Xiao nned to keep dragging this out.

    After all, now that he had drunk the Peach Blossom Elixir and separated the sun and moon, the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal really couldn¡¯t do much.

    Resisting the celestial treasure''s lethal embrace cost Blue Star and Red Moon little.

    Yet she seemed unyielding.

    "I hear you''re called Yun Xiao." The Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal brought the coffin pressed by the ck cloth bag before her eyes.

    "And you?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "You''re not yet worthy to know my name," the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal scoffed coldly, then chillingly added, "I''ve heard you possess a fatal w." n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Tell me, I''d like to know my own weakness," Yun Xiao said.

    Inside the coffin, he continued consuming Heavenly Dao Sariras to recover, nearly restored.

    "You have empathy. You care too much about the lives and survival of others. You desire fairness and justice too greatly," the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal stated calmly.

    "You call that a weakness?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "In the path of immortality, it is the most lethal of weaknesses. As long as it exists, you''ll never get far," the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal concluded, her dark eyes fixing on the coffin before her. "Don''t believe me? I can demonstrate right here."

    Yun Xiao fell silent, likely guessing how the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal might threaten him.

    Seeing his silence, the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal smiled coldly. "Enough joking. Come out from that coffin, hand over thepass and Peach Blossom Elixir, then go die. Otherwise, I''ll ughter every being in the Primordial Ruins right before your eyes, turning this ce into an ark of blood."

    "Go ahead and kill. The divine retribution will be yours, not mine," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Divine retribution? I am part of the heavens. How can the heavens condemn itself?" the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal said with a cold smile, raising an eyebrow at Yun Xiao. "It seems you don''t care much for the people of the Primordial Ruins. What if I take you, and ughter all in the Nine Hells before you? I hear you hail from a sect called the Sword Ruins."

    At these words, Yun Xiao fellpletely silent.

    The Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal suddenly burst into girlishughter, somewhat carried away, "Do you see now? Emotion is the first taboo of the Immortal path. The more people you care about, the more weaknesses you have. Any lesser Immortal can grasp your vulnerabilities and shatter your spiritual resolve. People like you belong to the lowest echelon of the celestialdder. You love so many mortals, better to remain amoner than to aspire to the merciless journey to Immortality."

    As the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal spoke, she didn¡¯t even shy away from the part of the popce below that still revered and worshiped her.

    This left her audience embarrassed and confused, a burning shame on their faces.

    And so, they involuntarily looked towards Yun Xiao, wanting to know his answer in this deafening silence.

    Yun Xiao suddenlyughed.

    "You make a good point, a very good point," he said.

    "You can''t be serious? You''ve realized something just now? It seems my enlightening you was a waste of effort," the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal replied.

    "Indeed, I have realized," Yun Xiao murmured, his eyes slowly zing with fervor, "I was always somewhat confused, my will not firm enough. Now I understand. My purpose in cultivation is to p the faces of pretenders like you, who y the saint but are anything but."

    Morality was just that, morality! There was always a reason crafted for every action, often cloaked in righteousness and universality.

    From the viewpoint of those in power, proiming the ruthlessness of the celestial way surely felt thrilling!

    But what of themon people?

    What had the beings of the mortal realm done to deserve their fate?

    A single decree of the unfeeling celestial way could destroy their lives, and afterward, it would be said they had only themselves to me.

    But what about this so-called Heavenly Immortal? If she were born in the fields of the mortal realm, could she defy fate?

    The truth was the vast majority couldn''t bridge the chasm that destiny carved at birth. Only a rare few truly defy their fate and change their destiny.

    Yun Xiao had been but a young sovereign of a small nation, living 16 years amidst the duties and struggles of the mortal realm. He was indeed too empathetic, too easily angered... because he had witnessed too much suffering.

    Those True Immortals standing above the clouds would never understand the meaning of life in the dust.

    But Yun Xiao did. For every mortal with intelligence, emotions, aspirations, family, and lovers, life was everything.

    Yun Xiao had always wanted to be a carefree wandering Sword Immortal, apanied by wine and beauties, but such days brought him no transformation of spirit... proving that such freedom was but a fleeting dream.

    His heart burned for justice, a fervent dream born from his mortal passions.

    It was for these reasons he had to admit, the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal had indeed pinpointed his weakness.

    Yet, was not empathy also his greatest strength?

    His deration had certainly given the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal a true measure of him as a man. She couldn''t help butugh again.

    Her gaze mocked, yet held a touch of admiration.

    "Truly, in the grand realm of immortality, I''ve never seen a boy as pure as you," the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal said.

    "And your point?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "To take you to the Nine Hells, to see the bloodshed, to truly understand what it means for one Immortal''s ascension to cost a myriad of lives," she said, then added softly, "And don''t curse the heavens, it would make you seem quite adorable. So-called morality is utterly meaningless on the scale of immortality."

    "No need to go," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "What? Ready to be a martyr?" the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal noted with amusement.

    "No, I choose toe out and kill you directly. It''s just going to cost more, and I have money now," Yun Xiao paused, then added, "You''re someone of high status; I don''t believe you''d step out without carrying some treasures."

    "What...?"

 Chapter 498 - Incarnation in the Celestial Court!

    <h4>Chapter 498 - Incarnation in the Celestial Court!</h4>

    Yun Xiao''s blunt and brusque words stopped the Heavenly Immortal dead in her tracks.

    "Do you think now that the sun and moon are parted, without the blessings of incense, you see a glimmer of hope against me?" the Heavenly Immortal said.

    "Release me, and I''ll rise from my coffin," Yun Xiao dered, his voice firm and tinged with an icy resolve.

    "Sigh," the Heavenly Immortal chuckled, shaking her head, "You are truly endearing. I find myself reluctant to kill you. So handsome too. Return thepass and the Peach Blossom Elixir to me, and I''ll take you to the Celestial Court to serve as a member, how about that?"

    The Heavenly Immortal''s words elicited little reaction from Yun Xiao, but Lian Xi seemed as though a jar of vinegar had spilled over.

    "Shameless!" Lian Xi already detested the Heavenly Immortal, and now she could barely contain her fury. She turned to the little white tiger, "When they open the shroud, trap her, and help Yun Xiao escape."

    "I can cover her briefly, but I need your strength, and you can''t be too far. She will find you!" the little white tiger replied, troubled.

    "It''s fine," Lian Xi said without hesitation.

    "You are trading your life for his!" the tiger said through clenched teeth.

    "Is there a problem? He has already fulfilled his mission for me, and death seems like my destiny..." Lian Xi''s eyes suddenly zed over.

    "Little Xi?" the tiger''s expression shifted.

    "After the sun and moon parted, I felt, somehow, that death might be a peaceful affair," Lian Xi said, her eyes brimming with tears, clutching the tiger with a desperate seriousness. "Please, let it be so!"

    "No..." The tiger''s eyes were misty.

    "Please! I love him, I want him to live!" Lian Xi''s gaze was heart-wrenchingly deste, yet filled with an endless tenacity.

    It seemed that the young man''s arrival had changed the process, though the oue remained the same.

    The difference was that she had carved it deeper into her heart this time.

    Her yearning gaze finally broke through the tiger''s stubborn exterior, and, being just a hard-mouthed creature, it could only weep and agree before such steadfastness from Lian Xi.

    And at that moment, Yun Xiao urgently demanded the Heavenly Immortal to open the shroud.

    Lian Xi, too, wished for him to escape from the coffin.

    The two struck an agreement!

    With a wave of her hand, the Heavenly Immortal unraveled the shroud, and at the same moment, Yun Xiao separated from his ancient bronze coffin, suspended in midair.

    The coffin quaked, on the verge of transforming into a fierce ck-scaled beast in full view, ready for a decisive battle to the death!

    In that instant, a thunderous roar rang out!

    Out of nowhere, a splendid pagoda dropped from the skies, encasing the Heavenly Immortal with a blinding light.

    Yun Xiao and the Heavenly Immortal were both stunned.

    "Yun Xiao, run!" Lian Xi, her eyes red, screamed from the crowd.

    Yun Xiao understood. She was saving him!

    "Let''s go together." Since Lian Xi had revealed herself, Yun Xiao had no choice but to flee first. Even if pursued, he could shift the battlefield, sparing the many below from harm.

    "I can''t leave... you go first!" Lian Xi stood resolutely on the ground of the Immortal Asylum, her eyes brimming with tears.

    "What are you talking about? How could I abandon you?"

    Yun Xiao had no idea of theplexities in her heart. He swooped down with his Sovereign Sword, scooped up Lian Xi in his arms, and flew off rapidly.

    "Yun Xiao!" Lian Xi was dumbfounded, blurting out, "If I leave, the pagoda can''t hold her without my strength!"

    As expected, no sooner had she spoken than the Primordial Pagoda was sted into the sky, and the Heavenly Immortal''s icy gaze locked onto them.

    "If it can''t hold, then let''s go!" Yun Xiao said as they sped away.

    "..." Lian Xi fell silent.

    She had envisioned a tragic drama of self-sacrifice for love, but the dire separation she feared never came¡ªYun Xiao had shattered her plot in an instant.

    "It''s all over now!"

    Their troubles had just magnified.

    "Not just yet! I still have a trick up my sleeve," Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh.

    If it hadn''t been for her antics, he, alongside Blue Star and Red Moon, would already be shing with the Heavenly Immortal.

    But now, it was nearly the same!

    The Heavenly Immortal, vexed by the intrusion of the pagoda and now seeing another woman emerge, added a touch of anger to her cold demeanor.

    <i>BOOM! </i>Her delicate form burst into myriad peach blossoms, creating a swirling storm of pink petals that pursued them with a formidable force.

    She had not harbored thoughts of murder before, but now her murderous intent surged like a tempest!

    The scene stirred up a tumultuous uproar.

    <i>BOOM! </i>The Heavenly Immortal''s strength was indeed formidable. In just an instant, her storm of peach blossoms appeared at Yun Xiao''s sides, trapping both him and hispanion.

    However, Yun Xiao had achieved his goal; he had moved the battlefield away from the dense crowd.

    He suddenly halted his Sovereign Sword!

    <i>BUZZ! </i>The peach blossom storm before him coalesced into the form of a long-haired maiden, a Heavenly Immortal!

    As a woman, her gaze first fell on Lian Xi, the woman who had struck her with a brick!

    "I''ve already thought of how you''ll die..." The Heavenly Immortal stared coldly at Lian Xi, her words cutting off mid-sentence as her indifferent expression suddenly contorted.

    Yun Xiao clearly saw her pretty face twitching.

    Then, her body began to convulse!

    Throughout, she kept her eyes wide open, fixed on Lian Xi, not diverting her gaze.

    "Is she seeing a ghost?" Yun Xiao remarked, surprised.

    "You''re the ghost... a cheeky ghost..." Lian Xi rolled her eyes at him, then turned her gaze back to the Heavenly Immortal, somewhat at a loss.

    Seeing her begin to twitch, what was she up to?

    In this eerie atmosphere, the Heavenly Immortal suddenly dropped to the ground in terror, then knelt and prostrated herself before Lian Xi, banging her head on the ground.

    "I, a humble Immortal, bow before Divine Dawn!"

    These words, coupled with her look of extreme fear, revealed far too much.

    Yun Xiao furrowed his brows, exchanging a nce with Blue Star.

    "Does the Celestial Court also have an incarnation of transcending cmity? And one of such high status?" Yun Xiao felt a thrilling shock.

    "Being named Divine Dawn doesn¡¯t necessarily mean she¡¯s an incarnation of transcending cmity..." Blue Star spoke somberly.

    The Heavenly Immortal had been shocked only after seeing Lian Xi''s face, whereas the previous encounter with another True Immortal showed no reaction, suggesting that Immortal may not have had the privilege to witness the true face of Divine Dawn.

    "Shen Xi, <i>Divine Dawn</i>?" Lian Xi asked, puzzled for a moment.

    The Martial Emperor n bore the surname Shen, which meant <i>Divine</i>. So, Lian Xi''s true name was Shen Xi.

    "Act!" Yun Xiao whispered a reminder.

    Quick as frost, Lian Xi understood, her expression turning immediately cold and haughty.

    The less she revealed, the better. And so, she merely watched the Heavenly Immortal, silent.

    Her silence made the Heavenly Immortal even more anxious, and she stammered, "I did not know Divine Dawn was here to temper her mortal heart. My disturbance is a sin deserving death!"

    "Leave." Lian Xi said indifferently.

    "As youmand!" The Heavenly Immortal trembled, tears filling her eyes, a stark contrast to her earlier cold demeanor.

    She bowed deeply, backing away until she was far enough to stand upright.

    Before leaving, with a hint of a sob, she said to Lian Xi, "When you return to the Celestial Court, my father and I wille to apologize."

    Lian Xi did not even look at her.

    The Heavenly Immortal''s gaze dimmed, tears streaming down her face.

    Then, she quietly ascended towards the sky, flying to an immeasurable height, and suddenly vanished, truly leaving the mortal realm.

    "Yun Xiao!" Lian Xi''s stern face finally rxed, her eyes wide as she said, "There¡¯s someone in the Celestial Court who looks just like me?"

    "Seems so." Yun Xiao turned his gaze over the entire Immortal Asylum.

    After the Heavenly Immortal left, the All Life Devouring Gu seemed to fail, and many cultivators suddenly froze, frothing at the mouth.

    Yet their eyes became clearer.

    "Has this cmity of all beings really been resolved just like that?"

    Neither Yun Xiao nor Lian Xi had anticipated such an astonishing oue.

    What kind of power did this being known as Divine Dawn possess?

    "It''s wonderful." Lian Xi, looking over the human realm, her eyes misty with tears again.

    This was the world they had sworn to protect!

    "It''s over now." Yun Xiao embraced her, watching as themon folk gradually regained their senses and began to cast grateful looks his way. He knew then that it had all been worth it.

    "Next time, if someone elsees down for the Immortal Asylum, can I scare them all off again?" Lian Xi suddenly asked.

    Yun Xiao pursed his lips, "Hard to say, if used too often it might give us away."

    What if they disturbed that Divine Dawn? What would happen if two incarnations of transcending cmity coexisted?

    And if that being was herself, and he had somehow <i>defiled </i>Lian Xi, would she destroy him?

    Yun Xiao had never seen her, but he could feel an immense pressure.

    Chen Xi was steadfast, Lian Xi charming, but what was this incarnation like?

    Before Yun Xiao could ponder this question further, a tremor suddenly came from the ends of the sky.

    Yun Xiao looked up!

    "The Skyruler Sword Vessel?"

    He saw it¡ªa colossal sword speeding towards the Immortal Asylum.

    Within that giant sword, he could faintly make out the figure of another immortal.

    "He''s back quickly..." Lian Xi smiled yfully, "Too bad, he''s toote. It''s already been settled."

    "Yes." Yun Xiao, for some reason, couldn''t feel too optimistic.

    The Nian''s warnings about the greedy beings made him realize that things were not so simple.

    He suddenly looked beyond the Skyruler Sword Vessel to the void behind it.

    Indeed, there were many shadows of other vessels moving through that space.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 500: Ruined Plane!

    Chapter 500: Ruined ne!

    Inevitably, conflict and collision were unavoidable!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Even minor friction among these True Immortals centered around the Immortal Asylum left the surrounding space utterly deste. Bothnd and sky turned into twisted voids of darkness.

    With terrifying speed, the shattered space expanded like a gaping maw of an abyss suddenly grown vast, swallowing an entire region the size of a Hell. Mountains, rivers, cities, human lives, and all creatures were instantly obliterated!

    Beyond the reach of destruction, death was but a momentary flicker.

    An immense void, asrge as the Eternal Sword Prison, instantaneously appeared around the Immortal Asylum. Seventeen levels, buried deep beneath the Nine Hells, were exposed, resembling a dark octagonal pir piercing the heavens!

    At that moment of destruction, Yun Xiao descended from above, arriving over the nearby city. The silent force of annihtion approached from behind!

    Yun Xiao turned in horror! Before him was a massive maw of dark oblivion, which in one gulp, devoured the entire city, home to a million souls. Merchants, children, and elders, still clueless, were annihted by these forces from the Celestial Court.

    "Run!!" Blue Star cried out in warning.

    Yun Xiao''s heart ached at that moment, everything before his eyes confirmed the harsh realities of the Immortal path as told by the Nian. It was so brutally real. Even though he had heard of it beforehand, when the scene unfolded before him, his mortal mind was overwhelmed by a nk void.He flew on his Sovereign Sword like a madman, narrowly escaping the engulfing storm of destruction. When he finally got far enough to look back, all that remained was a magnificent space of death.

    Not a drop of blood was left!

    Such was the devastation wrought unwittingly by the 1,000 True Immortals in their contest¡ªa destruction that doomed countless unnamed souls, far more than one could imagine.

    Other than Yun Xiao, none could have escaped such obliteration.

    "See it now?" In the distance, the Nian, sharing its essence with Moon Fairy, opened its eyes on his face and spoke in a chilly tone, "Don''t get angry or sad just yet, for this is merely the act of the greedy puffing breath upon the crown. This entire mortal realm, a mere box hiding the crown, is as insignificant as the box and the ants themselves. Who cares, really? Only a fool would care! If you care, you''re missing the bigger picture, and you''ve already lost."

    The Nian mocked him. It knew, better than anyone, the fury that coursed through Yun Xiao at that moment. But what of it? All he could do was bury the seeds of hatred deep within his heart.

    The Nian held no respect for such hatred. In its world, the path of the Immortal was merely a cycle of predator and prey. Pity and anger were but emotions for the weak and worthless. Calmness and cruelty, these were the true paths to the heavens!

    "Yun Xiao, do you think you''re strong?" the Nian taunted. "You can''t change anything, heh."

    Itughed with unrestrained mockery, findingfort only in this disdain.

    Meanwhile, the young man in white stood on the brink of the devastated area, his cold eyes fixated on the dark pir at the center of destruction.

    The pir vibrated with light, echoing the unending battle within, sounds and shockwaves that shook the heavens and the earth.

    The people of the Nine Hells looked towards it, their expressions a mix of confusion and bewilderment, much like ants watching lions fight; not so much afraid as they were puzzled and lost.

    Yun Xiao remained silent for a long while.

    "As long as no victor emerges, this struggle will never end. The greedy will only multiply, until everything you care about is destroyed," the Nian said, delighting in his misfortune.

    "It''s going to end," Yun Xiao suddenly dered.

    "Ha, naive. It won''t end. These people aren''t worthy..." The Nian''sughter boomed but then abruptly cut off.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The dark pir vibrated violently, as from the lowest of 17yers, a dark halo burst forth, crashing upwards to the first.

    Following that, heart-wrenching screams echoed.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>One by one, the True Immortals perished amid those screams.

    The dark halo even struck the thousand sword vessels hovering above!

    As it swept through, each sword vessel turned to dust and vanished into thin air.

    Even the Celestial Sourcecores within them did not explode; they simply evaporated...

    <em>BOOM! </em>The dark halo shook and then dissipated!

    Afterward, the dark pir fell silent, utterly still.

    All was quiet.

    It seemed everything had ended.

    "It can''t be!!" the Nian eximed, its dull yellow eyes wide in disbelief.

    The True Immortals, they were all dead! All perished within the Immortal Asylum.

    "You know who did this, right?" the Moon Fairy said coldly.

    "It was them! They were all bound; how could they haveshed out?" the Nian said nkly.

    "Time has passed, the master of the Immortal Asylum is gone, and even you, the gatekeeper, managed to escape. What about them? They must have justcked something minor, and provoking them was purely suicidal," Moon Fairy said fiercely.

    The True Immortals were all dead!

    This was their retribution!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As he spoke, the space in front of the dark pir vibrated, suddenly revealing a vortex.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The pir shook and plunged into the vortex, vanishing without a trace.

    The Immortal Asylum was gone!

    "Where did it go?" the Nian asked again, stunned.

    "To the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Moon Fairy said, looking up to the heavens.

    The halls of the Celestial Court surely had to be in upheaval at this moment.

    The Immortal Asylum had ascended into the heavens!

    "How do you know?" the Nian eximed, more surprised.

    Moon Fairy pursed his lips and sneered, "Guess? You''re not the only one in the Immortal Asylum who wanted my help to escape."

    "Damn, why should it be you? What can you do?" The Nian''s eyes twisted in challenge.

    "With just this frail body, I consumed you. So, you tell me, what can I do?" Moon Fairy retorted coldly.

    "So, you''re heading to the Great Dao Celestial Realm now?" the Nian inquired.

    "I''m just scouting ahead." After saying this, Moon Fairy turned back to look at the void of destruction in the Nine Hells, his eyes igniting with a towering inferno of vengeance.

    "Though these so-called True Immortals are all dead, this matter isn''t settled. Not by a long shot!"

    He considered the Nine Hells his home. And the True Immortals of the Celestial Court had scoured it...

    "This space here is already copsing. As time passes, the expanse of this void of destruction will continue to grow, crumbling more fiercely until it leads to the copse of this entire Pale Blue Dot Mortal Realm, turning it into a ruined ne. The creatures here are doomed," the Nian said heartlessly.

    "I know." Moon Fairy closed his eyes.

    Fortunately, there was still time. He looked up at the sky, took a deep breath, and said, "If this ce is indeed doomed, then let those True Immortals of the Celestial Court vacate their abodes for us to dwell."

    "Ha!" The Nianughed.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On the other side, Yun Xiao took a deep breath, his gaze solemn, as he rose on his Sovereign Sword.

    He hadn''t yet reached the Primordial Ruins when Lian Xi, aboard the Skyruler Sword Vessel, awaited him silently with tears.

    She too had seen everything that had happened in the Nine Hells.

    "The Immortal Asylum has ascended to the Great Dao Celestial Realm. I must take it down," Yun Xiao dered.

    "So..."

    "Let''s go then, and see how exalted this Celestial Court really is." Yun Xiao patted her head and said, "And see if this Divine Dawn is as beautiful as you."

    "You¡­ What are you nning to do?" Lian Xi bit her lip, clearly displeased. She suddenlytched onto his arm and pouted at him. "I don''t want you looking at any other woman but me! Let''s do it right now!"

    "Now? Here? That wouldn''t be appropriate, would it?" Yun Xiao coughed awkwardly.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 499: Arrival of a Thousand True Immortals!

    Chapter 499: Arrival of a Thousand True Immortals!

    Far off, the sword vessels that sliced through the air ranged from grand to modest, and their sizes varied.

    Yun Xiao could not immediately tell if these were all the sword vessels of the Celestial Court. What he could be sure of was that each one was powered by a Celestial Sourcecore, which granted them terrifying speed, capable of piercing the heavens and shattering barriers.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze fixed on the sword vessel of Arbiter Lu! Like a pathfinder, he was the first to arrive, his destination squarely the Primordial Ruins.

    ¡°Seeing Arbiter Lu¡¯s boldness, he must no longer fear the Heavenly Immortals,¡± Yun Xiao mused.

    He recalled the fear that the Peach Heavenly Immortal held towards Lian Xi, and seeing so many sword vessels, he spoke to Lian Xi, ¡°You better hide for now.¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± Lian Xi nodded obediently.

    As he watched her petite form slip into the shadows, Yun Xiao''s eyes warmed.

    ¡°Originally, I brought her along to always be ready for a desperate survival attempt by relying on our third session. Now, with the enemy fleeing away, I find myself without an excuse to draw close again.¡±

    Yet, Yun Xiao was not one to let go easily. He was determined to tackle the issue of the transcending cmity crystal. He always felt that missing this third chance would make it harder to resolve thister.¡°And now, with the great enemy dispelled, a fleeting life spared, if she were to suddenly end her own life¡­¡±

    Then, Lian Xi would be lost to him.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Once I meet Arbiter Lu, I have to settle this matter with Lian Xi. If need be, I¡¯ll help her rebuild her cultivation afterwards,¡± Yun Xiao resolved silently in his heart.

    He stood in the shadow of a street corner, his body first producing Moon Fairy, then his blood congealed, separating out into a mist-enshrouded Blood Base.

    ¡°Go find her!¡± With a flick of his hand, the Blood Base, like a movable body double, shot out like a blood-red orb of lightning and vanished in an instant.

    From then on, Yun Xiao reverted to his clean, pure image of a young Sword Immortal.

    As a Late Yin Immortal Realm cultivator, hisbat prowess was naturally formidable!

    After settling matters, he soared into the sky.

    ¡°It¡¯s him!¡±

    ¡°Yun Xiao¡­¡±

    ¡°The Three Immortals appear to be all dead, it must have been him!¡±

    Below in the Primordial Ruins, the multitudes awoke from dreams, recalling more and more.

    Dean Yu, Shen Cang, and others saw the separation of sun and moon, and now ascending the Primordial Ruins, they saw the massese to their senses. Overwhelmed with joy, they joined the crowd, bing pirs of strength, spreading the truth.

    At ces like the Jade Immortal Tower, Mystic Zenith Temple, and others, people looked to the sky, taking in the profound depths of the first true light of dawn.

    For Yun Xiao and Lian Xi, though still shrouded in mystery to some, as time passed, every victim woulde to know everything.

    Everyone would know whom to thank.

    But to Yun Xiao, this mattered little; he never sought adoration for his deeds. He acted from the heart, doing what he feltpelled to do. A simple smile in return for his actions was reward enough.

    His ascent to such a conspicuous spot was intended to catch Arbiter Lu''s eye.

    The roaring of the sword vessels could already be heard across the Primordial Ruins.

    "A vessel from the heavens!"

    "It must be True Immortals descending to personallymend Yun Xiao."

    "Perhaps he''s being summoned to ascend and join their ranks!"

    The people of the Primordial Ruins buzzed with excitement, anxious for Yun Xiao.

    In an instant, the lead sword vessel arrived before him, a wild storm tossing his white robes and long hair.

    Through the clear dome, Arbiter Lu could be seen, eyes wide, staring right at him!

    With a ng, the dome opened, and a white fog swirled out as Arbiter Lu emerged, instantly standing before Yun Xiao.

    "Arbiter Lu," Yun Xiao reported with a smile, "the harmful Heavenly Immortal must have sensed the arrival of the enforcers and fled in panic. Themon folk of this realm are now at peace, thanks to your righteous presence."

    "I know, it''s no longer important," Arbiter Lu''s voice trembled.

    "Hm?" Yun Xiao noted his peculiar state¡ªhis gaze was unfocused, his speech weak and strained, as if battling some inner turmoil.

    Yet he appeared unharmed.

    "Arbiter Lu, what''s the matter?"

    Before Yun Xiao could finish, Arbiter Lu suddenly grasped his shoulders, his voice quivering as he shouted, "Yun Xiao, take Lian Xi, board my Skyruler Sword Vessel at once, and flee this mortal ne!"

    Stunned by his intensity, Yun Xiao froze, asking, "What do you mean?"

    "Hurry! Hurry!" Tears streamed from Arbiter Lu''s eyes, turning ck like serpents slithering down his face, "Yun Xiao, you are like a brother to me. Survive!"

    "Arbiter Lu, what exactly¡ª" Yun Xiao was cut off as Arbiter Lu suddenly exerted force, shoving him to the ground.

    The impact threw Yun Xiao against the earth!

    He heard a heart-wrenching scream; looking up, he saw Arbiter Lu roaring skyward as pitch-ck, sinister mes burst from his body. During his agonized cries, finger-sized flesh worms crawled out of his eyes, ears, mouth, and nostrils!

    In just a moment, hundreds of ck worms poured out. They shrieked, twining together, forcibly molding into the silhouette of Arbiter Lu before flying off into the distance, enshrouded in ck mist.

    "The path leads there, the path leads there!" The screams of the ck worms seemed to mindlessly repeat these words.

    After they departed, Arbiter Lu still hovered in the air, his eyeballs and tongue gone, his body like a wave, rippling under the caress of the wind.

    This showed that all that was left of him was his skin...

    "Yun Xiao, the others who havee, they are not Arbiter Immortals¡­" Perhaps his soul clung on a moment longer, Arbiter Lu left these words in Yun Xiao''s ear.

    After speaking, he was thoroughly gone. Only his skin remained, floating like a kite in the air, hollow under the skin, his face a mask of fear and sorrow.

    This scene was too much for Yun Xiao!

    "Arbiter Lu..." Yun Xiao knew that such an end, facing fearless foes, must be connected to his bravery in reporting them.

    But clearly, the waters were too deep, the stakes too high. A man without backing like Arbiter Lu could be erased so easily, dying more miserably than anyone, even unknowing of whom he had offended.

    "The Immortal Asylum!" Yun Xiao knew it must be involved, pulling the veils of heaven itself!

    He looked up! Indeed, those sword vessels behind Arbiter Lu were not headed for the Primordial Ruins.

    They did not care to involve themselves with the cmity of the denizens of the Primordial Ruins. These vessels had bypassed the Primordial Ruins entirely, rushing towards the direction of the Nine Hells!

    In that missed instant, Yun Xiao saw clearly! The number of sword vessels far exceeded his expectations, numbering in the thousands, many vastlyrger than Arbiter Lu''s Skyruler Sword Vessel, theirplexity stark.

    Most terrifying was the presence of their owners, each bearing an aura vast and boundless, each one a world unto themselves.

    "Why does each Immortal feel stronger than the Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal?"

    The Peach Blossom Heavenly Immortal had just been scared away, but now thousands of other True Immortals from the Celestial Court had descended!

    As the Nian had said, if they were to fight over the Immortal Asylum, would they care about the Nine Hells?

    "Yun Xiao, what''s going on¡­?" Lian Xi approached, her eyes red with worry, her voice anxious, momentarily at a loss.

    The arrival of these True Immortals, their scale and majesty, was beyond mortalprehension!

    The tens of millions of inhabitants of the Primordial Ruins hadn''t even realized what kind of beings had just roared past.

    "Stay calm!" Yun Xiao took a deep breath, his eyes icing over.

    "Lian Xi, help me hide this Skyruler Sword Vessel, I need to go down and see!"

    Without waiting for a response from Lian Xi, Yun Xiao dashed downward on his Sovereign Sword.

    "Yun Xiao..." Lian Xi was full of concern, but in the blink of an eye, Yun Xiao had disappeared, leaving her to murmur, "Please be careful."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Thunderous rumbles shook the heavens as the sword vessels descended, halting above the Immortal Asylum. Their abrupt stop tore the sky asunder, creating thousands of spatial rifts that stretched for miles. The sky above the Nine Hells fractured into a web of blue and ck.

    The ck rifts, like gaping maws, devoured white clouds and the essence of immortality.

    This sudden change sent shivers through the just-awakened beings of the Nine Hells.

    They understood nothing of this phenomenon. They were like ants upon a crown, overwhelmed and baffled by the unfolding events.

    Thunder rolled again as the thousand sword vessels opened, causing horrific spatial tremors.

    The Heavenly Immortals had barely revealed themselves when the cosmos around the Immortal Asylum began to disintegrate. Even the rocks and vegetation below were pulverized into dust by the force unleashed.

    Laughter and whispers echoed as the sword vessels opened. Celestial beings, each cloaked in radiant light, stepped forth. A congregation gathered above the Immortal Asylum, their eyes fervently fixed on an octagonal <em>stump </em>below.

    "North River Star Lord, your intelligence is impressive," a figure murmured, emerging from the shadows. There were five twisted figures in total. Darkness swallowed all around them, spreading like a canopy of ck peach blossoms from their forms.

    "Not as keen as you Five Specters from the Peach Blossom Mountain," a majestic, white-robed Immortal replied, his presence wrapped in starlit rivers, resplendent and sublime.

    Among them, figures like the North River Star Lord and the Five Specters from the Peach Blossom Mountain were many!

    Under a heavy, brutal atmosphere, most remained silent, their focus on the Immortal Asylum and wary of each other.

    "Folks, we''re all here, why not proceed?"

    "Who shallmand the Immortal Asylum will be decided by fate and fortune!"

    Cold voices filled the air, the atmosphere above the Immortal Asylum chilling to the extreme. Only the demonic hair-like cosmic rifts danced wildly in the sky.

    Just as the tension reached its boiling point...

    <em>BOOM! </em>All the Immortals moved at once! They targeted one of the eight gates of the Immortal Asylum, bursting forth in streams of stardust and trails of immortal mist, plunging into the Immortal Asylum!

 Chapter 501: Whos the Woman?

    Chapter 501: Who''s the Woman?

    Though Lian Xi had made her decision, her heart was heavy with doubts.

    She gazed towards the unknown heavens, then gripped Yun Xiao''s hand and asked, "How did you know that the Immortal Asylum ascended to the Great Dao Celestial Realm? Did you make contact with a being inside the prison?"

    "Back in the Immortal Asylum, I encountered a man dressed in ck. Just as the thousand Immortals entered the prison, his voice suddenly rang in my ear," Yun Xiao replied gravely.

    "Who is he, and what did he say?" Lian Xi asked, curious.

    "I''m guessing he''s a prisoner there," Yun Xiao said, looking towards the devastated area, his lips pursed. "His words were simple. He said, ''You nowck the power to control the Immortal Asylum; we will shift it ahead on your path.''"

    "Ahead on our path? That must be the Great Dao Celestial Realm..."

    With these words, Yun Xiao knew that the arrival of these 1,000 Immortals had enraged the monsters within the prison, and death was certain!

    The oue was much as he had anticipated.

    After hearing this, Lian Xi had an epiphany, remarking, "That person, he must be a good soul. By moving the Immortal Asylum, he likely sought to prevent further conflicts that could harm the mortal realm.""Probably so," Yun Xiao mused.

    "What are you thinking about?" Lian Xi asked softly, pinching the back of his hand.

    Yun Xiao looked up at the sky and said deeply, "I''m thinking, it seems those who truly peak in this world, like the man in ck from the prison, possess reverence and humanity. Unlike the Immortals of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, who justify their exploitation and plundering as divine truths, content in destroying everything."

    Ultimately, who were the <em>true</em> Immortals? Or rather, what should an Immortal be? Yun Xiao had yet to find an answer.

    Today''s battle among the Immortals had shown him a more grotesque and brutal side of the struggle for celestial power.

    "Can''t we look on the bright side?" Lian Xi suggested, shaking his hand.

    "How should we view it positively?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Arbiter Lu said that the Celestial Court forbids Immortals from descending to the mortal realm, and vitors would be severely punished. Doesn''t that mean the Celestial Court is protecting the mortal realm? And doesn''t it suggest that the roots of the Great Dao Celestial Realm are essentially good?" Lian Xi reasoned.

    "That''s true," Yun Xiao nodded. "We''ll see for ourselves what the Celestial Court is really like."

    Below them, the destroyed area was like a dark beast, ever ready to devour the world of men anew.

    Yun Xiao watched the world crumble with a cold gaze and said, "Everything here will be destroyed, and only the Celestial Court might have a way to save us."

    "People live in this world in too much pain. No sooner had we resolved the cmity of the Three Immortals than we plunged into another disaster of world-ending proportions. There hasn''t been a moment''s peace." Lian Xi sighed softly, tears silently welling up in her eyes.

    Yun Xiao felt a greater mix of rage and icy detachment.

    But she was different. She was emotional,passionate, and empathetic, making her sorrow even deeper. Her eyes were filled with hatred for the disasters that befell humanity and a sense of responsibility for the suffering of the people.

    Her sense of mission had even strengthenedpared to when the Three Immortals were present.

    "Lil Xi, the cmity will destroy the human world, and even though the Three Immortals are dead, you are far from being done, aren''t you?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    "Of course not. Why do you ask?" Lian Xi asked, puzzled.

    Yun Xiao merely smiled tightly, not answering. He thought to himself: Perhaps this girl won''t end her life now¡­ Maybe that''s the only good news in this apocalyptic disaster.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Time was running short!

    So, Yun Xiao no longer dwelled on his feelings but instead told Lian Xi, "Before we set out, we''ll split up. You go to your master and exin everything to them. Have them get everyone around the Nine Hells and its surroundings to evacuate. In this disaster, we must treat demons, devils, and humans alike. The peace of all realms for the foreseeable future I leave to them."

    "Understood," Lian Xi nodded obediently.

    "Then, we''ll meet back here in a little while," Yun Xiao said.

    "Okay," she replied.

    As she watched Yun Xiao head towards the lower reaches of the Nine Hells, a thought struck her, and she couldn''t help but ask, "Are you going to say goodbye to her?"

    "Her? Who?" Yun Xiao stopped and asked.

    "The mother of your child," Lian Xi said, biting her lip.

    Yun Xiao paused, his mind went nk for a moment, then he scratched his head and awkwardly said, "Yes, I am going to say goodbye."

    "Who is she, some kind of divine being? Is she that female devil? You''re not nning to take her to the Great Dao Celestial Realm?" Lian Xi asked further.

    "She''s not a devil," Yun Xiao, always straightforward, decided to exin, "She''s a mortal girl from the pocket world I came from, my senior sister who led me on the path of immortality."

    "Ah?" Lian Xi stuck out her tongue in surprise, "You mean, she''s your original wife from the pocket world?"

    "Yes," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Lian Xi touched her head andughed sheepishly. "Turns out I was the other woman. I was the third wheel all along."

    "..." Yun Xiao fell speechless.

    Why did she feel almost pleased upon realizing the truth, as if she had gotten the better end of the deal?

    After a moment of thought, Lian Xi still asked, "Does your senior sister... know about me?"

    "She prefers not to know," Yun Xiao replied.

    "If she found out, would she be angry? Would it ruin your family?" Lian Xi pressed.

    "She wouldn''t be angry," he assured her.

    "Why not?"

    "..." Yun Xiao paused, momentarily at a loss for words. So, he said simply, "Her bosom is as vast as the sea, capable of embracing all..."

    "I get what you mean," Lian Xi bit her lip and red at him, "You really are one lucky fellow."

    "..." Yun Xiao smiled slightly at her words.

    Without further ado, he turned and soared towards the Eternal Sword Prison on his Sovereign Sword.

    After he left, Lian Xi bowed her head, her gaze slightly bewildered.

    "Hey, you haven''t really fallen for him, have you?" the little white tiger popped out of her embrace and asked disdainfully.

    "What do you think?" Lian Xi pursed her lips. "Love is selfish, yet people say that on the path of immortality, one should detach from passions and desires."

    "Don''t overthink it, it''ll cloud your mind. If you want rity, just listen to me!" the little white tiger chortled.

    "Go on," Lian Xi said.

    "Just wrap up this third session, then kick this worthless man to the heavens. From now on, you be the star, and let him be the backdrop!" The little white tiger clearly couldn''t stand the frustration anymore.

    A tiger, born to rule, should never be suppressed. This was simply intolerable!

    "I can''t be bothered with you." Lian Xi pinched its face and turned to ascend to the heavens herself.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Divine Continent, at the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, within the Sword Pavilion and Little Cloud Residence, Yun Xiao sat at a stone table in the courtyard. Before him stood a nine-tiered shimmering pagoda, its surface swirling with radiant light and nebulous energies, serving as a supreme protector.

    It was the Cosmic Pagoda, a divine artifact capable of altering time!

    <em>KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK! </em>Yun Xiao tapped on the Cosmic Pagoda, calling out, "Senior Sister Zhao, you cane out now."

    Due to the asynchronous nature of time inside and outside the tower, it took a while before a beam of light emerged, revealing a poised and serene woman in a ck gown.

    "Junior Brother Yun," she said, her eyes warm as she looked at him and then towards the sky. "Has the disaster ended?"

    For her, life inside the pagoda remained unchanged.

    The difference was, every few days, Yun Xiao would visit, either at the onset of a great cmity or its conclusion.

    She was unfamiliar with the world beyond the Sea of Swords but had grown ustomed to great disasters.

    "Thetest disaster has passed," Yun Xiao replied.

    "That''s good. You''re not busy now, stay for a while?" Zhao Xuanran said softly.

    "I can''t stay; the world is about to be destroyed," Yun Xiao said, covering his face.

    Zhao Xuanran paused, then smirked. "Are you a ma for disaster? Wherever you go, destruction follows."

    Yun Xiao helplessly rubbed his head. "Seems so. Maybe I should stop wandering and just wait for our child to be born?"

    Zhao Xuanran, startled, said, "You better not, you better go."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I enjoy a slow-paced life; your rhythm is too fast. If we don''t live apart, one of us is bound to go mad," she said quietly.

    Yun Xiao paused. Indeed, in some ways, they were opposites.

    "Sit."

    Yun Xiao sat down at the stone table.

    This table bore the weight of Yun Xiao''s fondest memories on his path of cultivation.

    That night,nterns swayed on the osmanthus trees, fish in the pond startled...

 Chapter 502: Creation Cannot Be Stolen!

    Chapter 502: Creation Cannot Be Stolen!

    Yun Xiao had just pulled out a jug of wine when Zhao Xuanran held him back, her voice stern, "Don''t tempt me, I really shouldn''t drink."

    "So cautious?" Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Of course," replied Zhao Xuanran.

    "Getting ate child really is different," Yun Xiao joked with augh.

    Zhao Xuanran paused, then pinched him, ring, "Kid, what nonsense are you spouting? I''m only 22, in the prime of my youth."

    Theyughed together, and amidst the happy atmosphere, Yun Xiao embraced her.

    "Destruction will reach here soon, maybe you should hide," he said softly.

    "How many days?" she asked.

    "Given the current pace, about half a month," he replied."Where would I go?" Zhao Xuanran bit her lip, a pained expression crossing her face. "I love it here, I don''t want to go anywhere."

    She gazed at the flowers she nted, the small fish she nurtured, and thenterns she hung. These things, insignificant on the path of immortality, were treasures to her, something she cherished, wanting to protect this ce.

    Because this was their home...

    Yun Xiao took her hand, wanting to persuade her further but eventually gave up.

    "Alright," he said suddenly.

    "Alright what?" she asked.

    "Half a month," Yun Xiao stood up, looking at her earnestly. "We''ll protect our home."

    "Don''t feel pressured, if it''s not enough, I''ll just make a run for it in ten days. It doesn''t really matter. Your concerns are what''s important," Zhao Xuanran said softly.

    "I can handle the pressure," Yun Xiao''s eyes held hers, reluctance clear in his gaze, but still, he had to leave, "I must go now."

    Zhao Xuanran waved him off, halfughing, half crying, "Go on then, you''ll be back in no time. After you slew demons in the Northern Wastnds, it feels like you never returned to Azure Spirit."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Indeed..."

    Rising too swiftly had its advantages.

    Yun Xiao waved his hand, and the Sovereign Sword soared into the sky.

    Below him, the tiny abode within Azure Spirit grew smaller and smaller until it vanished from sight. Yet, it remained, forever etched in his heart, haunting his dreams...

    As he rode the Sovereign Sword, Yun Xiao nced back at Azure Spirit, and his heart jolted suddenly.

    Abruptly, the world spun wildly.

    Endless ck smoke shrouded everything before him.

    His eyes snapped open!

    Before him stood a ck coffin¡ªthis was a Primordial Coffin!

    The dark coffiny open, and within it rested a woman in a ck gown, her eyes closed in profound peace.

    Her hands gently rested on her abdomen.

    And there, at her belly, surged a dark light, swirling into a ck vortex!

    Within that vortex, incredibly small, hardly the size of a thumb, curled up like a newly formed embryo, was a figure.

    But in that moment, Yun Xiao felt he saw its eyes!

    It gazed back at him, mysterious and knowing, smiling enigmatically, and spoke in a voice vast and deep, "Creation cannot be stolen."

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao felt as if he''d been struck by lightning. He gasped for air, feeling as though he were drowning, unable to breathe. But in an instant, everything vanished; he was merely riding his Sovereign Sword after all.

    The skies of the Divine Continent were still clear and bright, with blue skies and white clouds.

    "Yun Xiao, what''s wrong?" Blue Star asked, puzzled.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao''s face was pale, his forehead covered with sweat.

    "Is there any movement in that third Primordial Coffin in your belly?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "No," Blue Star and Red Moon responded in unison.

    "Oh..."

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath.

    "An illusion? Or..." His eyes frosted over, "Is someone, something, using everything I love to threaten me?"

    He knew how much Zhao Xuanran cared for this child. He cared too. So, what was it really?

    "Perhaps, understanding this third Primordial Coffin will reveal the answer."

    He gritted his teeth, his resolve growing ever more formidable.

    "I''vee too far to lose now, and I can''t afford to."

    Thus, he would risk everything to protect all that he loved!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Primordial Ruins¡­ Half a dayter, the chaos here finally ordered itself.

    Millions of residents of the ruins, under the guidance of Dean Yu and Shen Cang, finally learned everything about the Three Immortals and Yun Xiao!

    The ancient injustice of the Martial Emperor n was cleared.

    This should have been a time for the masses to celebrate, yet the catastrophe loomed like a fresh sword hung at every throat.

    And so, when Yun Xiao arrived, the people fell to their knees before him. "We beseech you, please save our world!"

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>Countless people of the Primordial Ruins knelt.

    Sorrow etched on every face.

    Yun Xiao never wanted to bear all this, to be called a savior. In contrast, saving his own home in Azure Spirit felt more eptable to his heart. But he knew this was merely sentimentality.

    For any decent person, not inherently evil, when such a responsibility fell upon them, seeing those helpless, dim, yearning eyes, suffering untold hardships... who could ignore that?

    "With great poweres great responsibility!" He didn''t provide an answer to the people; instead, he beckoned to Lian Xi and said, "Let''s go!"

    Promises meant nothing until action was taken.

    "Farewell, Heavenly Immortal Yun Xiao!"

    These words echoed throughout the Primordial Ruins.

    "Yun Xiao!" As the young man in white and Lian Xi approached the Skyruler Sword Vessel, Dean Yu suddenly cried out, her eyes red with emotion.

    "Dean Yu. Please speak," Yun Xiao turned to her.

    Dean Yu''s eyes zed as she said, "I have always wondered what a true Immortal is. I saw the Three Immortals, then the Heavenly Immortal, and witnessed the arrival of a thousand Immortals, but they all left me puzzled¡­ until I saw you at this moment!"

    With a voice firm and clear, she dered, "You have given me the answer. You are the true Immortal!"

    "True Immortal!"

    This phrase burst from the mouths of the people of the ruins, reverberating up to the clouds.

    The people realized they had been deceived by the Three Immortals before, causing much trouble for Yun Xiao, and they felt guilty. But now, as the clouds parted to reveal the sun, their reverence grew!

    Yun Xiao never expected that one day in this sea of faces at the ruins, he would be a beacon of righteousness. It was a good feeling! He epted their admiring gazes and, holding Lian Xi¡¯s hand, squeezed into the Skyruler Sword Vessel.

    Arbiter Lu had already exined to him how to control the sword vessel.

    With a rumble, it soared!

    The hopes of the people soared with the vessel, towards the Great Dao Celestial Realm, towards the Celestial Court!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Skyruler Sword Vessel¡­

    "It''s so cramped!" Lian Xi blushed, her body pressed tightly against Yun Xiao.

    There was no helping it; this was a one-man vessel, designed to fit only arge man.

    Her petite frame just allowed her to squeeze in with Yun Xiao. Had it been the War Princess, even with force, she wouldn''t have fit.

    "Just bear with it."

    Though holding a delicate jade beauty in his arms, Yun Xiao found it ufortable too. It was cramped! Not just them, but even the two pets beneath their feet were squeezed together.

    It was Blue Star, Red Moon, and the little white tiger.

    "What an ugly mess, get off!" the little white tiger''s face was squished, shouting angrily.

    "Old mama tiger!" Blue Star scoffed.

    "You..." The little white tiger gritted its teeth and then, with a face full of shock, eximed, "Something is licking me!"

    "Ah!"

    And so, within the cramped confines of the one-man Skyruler Sword Vessel, their speed increased with two people and three beasts aboard, eventually soaring to the very ends of the sky.

    "Just ahead is the barrier to this mortal ne! Reaching the realm of a True Immortal, one can break through the barrier and ascend to join the ranks of Immortals..." Yun Xiao looked ahead!

    At the end of the sky appeared a thick wall of starlight, dazzling and brilliantly luminous.

    "Under this barrier, the myriad worlds are like a giant egg," Yun Xiao concluded, looking down.

    The Skyruler Sword Vessel could directly pass through the barrier!

    The whole process didn''t require slowing down.

    "Sneaking mortals into the Celestial Court is probably also a grave crime, right?" Lian Xi asked.

    "Arbiter Lu is no longer with us... So once we''re up there, we just need to figure out how to concoct some identities," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Mhmm!"

    As Yun Xiao''s words fell, the Skyruler Sword Vessel, with a whoosh, pierced through the barrier.

    <em>HUM! </em>Yun Xiao suddenly felt lighter.

    "Is it the Celestial Pce after we pass through the barrier?" Yun Xiao looked ahead, only to see the way forward filled with murky clouds and fog, the path unclear.

    The speed of the Skyruler Sword Vessel was terrifyingly fast, vanishing into the distance in the blink of an eye!

    "You better look back," Lian Xi suddenly said in shock.

    Her expression suggested she had seen something unbelievable.

    "Look back?" Yun Xiao paused, then turned to look behind.

    "Holy..." He too was left breathless.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 503: Boundless is the Dao, Open is the Celestial Path!

    Chapter 503: Boundless is the Dao, Open is the Celestial Path!

    Yun Xiao stared intently into the haze. Behind him, within the dim cloud, a murky, faintly glowing star emerged. Indeed, it was a star! Stars filled the night skies both in the Divine Continent and the Nine Hells. When Yun Xiao had burst through the barrier moments before, he realized that the stars he had seen from the mortal realm were merely specks of light on the barrier.

    But now, a true, vast star appeared behind him! There was a world of difference between mere points of light and a real star.

    But why did this cloudy star feel so familiar?

    Lian Xi was the first to grasp the truth. Squeezed into the cabin of the Skyruler Sword Vessel, she excitedly told Yun Xiao, "This star is actually the myriad worlds!"

    After a pause, she added, "It¡¯s the realm we grew up in, along with thousands upon thousands of other mortal realms... It only appears smaller now because we are so far from it."

    "The myriad worlds?" Yun Xiao was puzzled. The myriad worlds were a giant, murky star. It was like a celestial egg divided into countless worlds, teeming with life. And the Primordial Ruins were sailing among them.

    He remembered the barrier aglow with starlight and Arbiter Lu calling his home the <em>Pale Blue Dot Mortal Realm</em>.

    "So, the myriad worlds are shaped like a star that harbors all creation!"

    How could the beings living within the myriad worlds believe this without seeing it with their own eyes?"The world is truly wondrous," Yun Xiao realized, acknowledging his profound ignorance of the world''s true structure.

    "If the myriad worlds are a star, what is the Great Dao Celestial Realm then? Are the other stars something simr?" Lian Xi wondered aloud, her curiosity unabated.

    Yun Xiao was about to specte when his face suddenly froze in amazement.

    He turned his head to the side and said with a sense of wonder, "Lian Xi, look over there."

    Lian Xi blinked herrge eyes towards the direction he indicated and saw, not far from the myriad worlds, another star appeared.

    This star was evenrger than the myriad worlds. It too was clouded with murky starlight, within which shadows flickered and, faintly, the sounds of thunder and the voices of many beings could be heard.

    "Could thisrger star be the Great Dao Celestial Realm?" Lian Xi guessed.

    "No," Yun Xiao replied with a firm gaze, somewhat astounded. "This must be another mortal realm?"

    "Another mortal realm?" Lian Xi was stunned.

    "More precisely," Yun Xiao continued, "it should be another mortal realm formed by a collection of worlds."

    "Why are you so sure?" Lian Xi asked, curious.

    "As the Skyruler Sword Vessel moves away from these two stars, its de points towards the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Although these two stars differ in size, they share the same level. Moreover..." Yun Xiao pointed in another direction, "look there, you can vaguely see three more stars. Together, these five must all be star-shaped mortal realms. Or perhaps, should we call them five Ster Mortal Realms?"

    "There are five mortal realms? That''s too many beings!" Lian Xi said, sticking out her tongue.

    "Five?" A light flickered in Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    He knew the Skyruler Sword Vessel was still speeding forward! As they moved further from the myriad worlds, their field of view expanded. Indeed, As they continued to move away, more and more stars appeared!

    The myriad worlds where they had been embedded slowly transformed into a vast, dark sky. And in the sky, more and more stars appeared in their sight. At first, there were only five. Soon, dozens of stars were visible. Then, thousands! And it didn''t stop there!

    In the end, tens of thousands of star points appeared in his field of vision. And theypletely filled the <em>sky</em>!

    For a moment, Yun Xiao felt as if he were back in his childhood, gazing up at a sky filled with countless stars. What he had seen in his youth were merely points of light. But now, there were tens of thousands of stars, each one a mortal realm the size of the myriad worlds. Mortal realms were embedded in the sky like stars!

    In Yun Xiao''s mind, the structure of the mortal realms and the Celestial Court had been simple¡ªa two-tiered tower, with the mortal realms below and the Celestial Court above.

    But now, the mortal realms appeared as stars embedded in the sky, illuminating the world. This was beyond his imagination!

    "Yun Xiao!" Lian Xi suddenly struggled to turn her face towards the front of the Skyruler Sword Vessel, her voice filled with surprise. "Look ahead!"

    Both of them, born in the Pale Blue Dot Mortal Realm and not widely traveled, found this journey imbued with a na?ve beauty.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Yun Xiao held her close and finally managed to see ahead! As he turned, a ze of sunlight forced him to instinctively shut his eyes. When his eyes adjusted, he slowly opened them, his mind shaken by the sight.

    "Is the Great Dao Celestial Realm a sun? Is the Celestial Court built upon a giant sun?" Lian Xi asked, stunned.

    Indeed, ahead of their sword vessel, a burning sun appeared, illuminating the surrounding dark clouds with unparalleled brilliance. Thousands of streams of celestial energy mingled above it, like a fierce, dreamlike world.

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath and said, "More precisely, the Celestial Court is built on an enormous Celestial Sourcecore!"

    As for its true size, they could not estimate the distance and were unsure.

    Under this intense glow, their young faces, and the four eyes between them, shimmered with golden light.

    It was the awe of a vast world and the aspiration for a future on the Immortal path.

    Yun Xiao, not a particrly experienced man, gazed at the vast Great Dao Celestial Realm with a mix of awe and agitation in his heart. But soon, his eyes hardened, the confusion turning into a desire to conquer.

    "From the Great Dao Celestial Realm, looking up at the sky, countless mortal realms are embedded like stars. The Immortals probably don''t care if a single star might lose its luster..."

    The myriad worlds would soon be a dying star! It would vanish from the sky of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    Countless beings were about to lose their lives and everything else in a devastating cmity. Thousands of years of heritage would be destroyed in an instant! Such stark realities altered Yun Xiao¡¯s sentiment as he approached the Great Dao Celestial Realm, his longing now mingled with a solemn resolve.

    The mortal realms and the Celestial Court were not merelyyers of a tower but rather the sun and the multitude of stars in the sky. All of a sudden, many previously iprehensible things started making sense.

    "No Immortal would concern themselves with the dimming of a star," Lian Xi said, her sensitive heart growing more mncholic upon witnessing all this.

    "Lian Xi," Yun Xiao pinched her cheek gently tofort her, "didn¡¯t you say that the Celestial Court has celestialws forbidding Immortals from descending to the mortal realms, indicating that it protects the path of mortals? So, think on the bright side."

    "Are you always this optimistic?" Lian Xi asked, somewhat surprised.

    "At least, you need to be responsible for being optimistic," Yun Xiao said with a smile. What he meant was, they couldn¡¯t both afford to be pessimists.

    Lian Xi understood him then. "Alright, I''ll be the one to believe in the good," she said, smiling with dimples and her small canine teeth showing, looking utterly adorable.

    And so, their fantastical journey chasing the sun was bound to reach its end.

    Beyond a certain limit, only sunlight was visible ahead of the Skyruler Sword Vessel; the true size of the Great Dao Celestial Realm was no longer discernible. It seemed like a chaotic spherical forge in the void.

    Even within the Skyruler Sword Vessel, Yun Xiao could feel its intense heat.

    "This Skyruler Sword Vessel is a forbidden item for non-Immortals. We''re essentially stowaways, not meant to openly pilot it into the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao stated earnestly.

    "What shall we do then?" Lian Xi asked.

    "Slow down, stop, then abandon the sword vessel and look for a safe way to enter," Yun Xiao said as he gazed ahead at the rolling mes.

    "Alright!" It was Lian Xi¡¯s first time as a stowaway, and she was terribly nervous. Whenever she engaged in <em>misdeeds</em>, her difort was palpable, almost as if she was afraid others would notice her sneaking around.

    With a hum, the Skyruler Sword Vessel slowed to a halt, hovering in the void.

    <em>CLICK! </em>Yun Xiao opened the hatch, and both emerged with flushed faces, finally climbing out of that confined space.

    Once out, both Yun Xiao and Lian Xi instinctively shoved the grumbling little beasts back into their arms and shared a sheepishly amused nce.

    "Arbiter Lu, your vengeance, I swear to seek it clearly and fulfill it," Yun Xiao dered, patting the Skyruler Sword Vessel, which then resumed its course toward the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Like an ancient sword, it plunged into an endless ocean of volcanic magma!

    Ahead, the heavens were entirely dominated by the fiery sea of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, its mes rolling up in thousand-mile waves, making Yun Xiao and Lian Xi appear like mere flies above a volcano.

    "The Celestial Realm!" Yun Xiao took one deep look at this world of fierce fire, then turned back. At the edge of the dusky night sky, countless stars dotted the heavens, their dim light haphazard andckingpared to the brilliant ze of the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    "Let''s go." Yun Xiao grasped Lian Xi¡¯s hand, and together they descended.

    They kept sinking! Suddenly, at some critical point, an abrupt change urred! They felt a terrifying force spontaneously emerge between heaven and earth, locking onto their bodies!

    It was like an imprisoning sphere, locking down everything about them, rendering them utterly immobile.

    "Boundless is the Dao, open is the Celestial Path! Congrattions to the ascenders!"

    A deafening voice suddenly echoed as if the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm itself was speaking.

    "Yun Xiao!" Lian Xi called out in rm.

    Yun Xiao mustered all his strength to grip her hand tightly.

    In the next instant, a formidable force propelled them forward!

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi embraced tightly, clutching each other like octopuses, not daring to let go, the little beasts in their arms squirming and cursing.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>For a moment, they felt a speed surpassing that of the Skyruler Sword Vessel!

    Who was controlling them?

    Yun Xiao could only catch glimpses with the corner of his eye, watching the surrounding waves of fire and clouds morph bizarrely, every majestic scene shing by in an instant.

    Soon, ahead of them, a dazzling, colorful vortex appeared!

    It was like a gateway to the Celestial Realm, or the eye of this zing orb, with countless storms of colorful clouds and mes swirling around it, resounding with a deafening, majestic sound.

 Chapter 504: Deja Vu

    Chapter 504: Deja Vu

    <em>BOOM! </em>In an instant, Yun Xiao and Lian Xi were thrust into the colorful vortex before them, plunging into a world that seemed woven from dreams. Ribbons of color danced across the sky as if exalted Immortals themselves were traversing the heavens. Majestic melodies of the Celestial Court swirled around, cleansing those who listened, their faces solemn and hearts purified.

    After hurtling through this dazzling miasma of celestial fog, the terrifying force that had gripped their bodies vanished as abruptly as it had appeared.

    This power was akin to the force of the <em>heavens</em>! Even in its absence, Yun Xiao felt a lingering terror in his heart.

    He knew better than anyone that the Great Dao Celestial Realm surpassed the mortal realm in unfathomable ways, a ce not even the Primordial Ruins couldpare with.

    In other words, the challenge they faced was beyond extraordinary!

    "We must have reached our destination..."

    With the force gone, Yun Xiao regained control of his body, and he and Lian Xi gentlynded on a white jade tform.

    This tform, floating amidst the misty hues of celestial fog, had an aura of ascension about it.

    "It¡¯s alright." Yun Xiao took Lian Xi¡¯s hand.Amidst these strange urrences, they seemed like a pair of lovebirds, huddling together for warmth under the immense pressure of this boundless world.

    With Yun Xiao¡¯s firm hand in hers, Lian Xi¡¯s tense heart began to calm.

    Together, they looked ahead. Before them rose tiers of white jade steps! These steps, floating in the colorful mist, appeared both sacred and sublime, infinitely wondrous. And at the top of these steps, shrouded in the deeper mists, it seemed a grand pce awaited in the clouds.

    "Ascenders, make haste to join the ranks!" From the pce came a voice, kind andpassionate, bathing its listeners in a spring of sweetness.

    "Ascenders?" Yun Xiao and Lian Xi exchanged bewildered nces.

    "Yun Xiao, we stowed away, how did we be ascenders?" Lian Xi whispered timidly.

    "It''s alright, let''s go with the flow. If things go south, we''ll escape with my coffin," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Coffin?" Lian Xi was still puzzled when Yun Xiao grabbed her hand and led her onto the white jade steps, heading towards their end.

    Soon, he saw it clearly! At the end of the staircase stood a towering stone gate, a thousand meters high, engraved with three characters¡ªGate of Ascension!

    These golden characters, bold and imposing, undoubtedly contained a multitude of enchanting symbols, packing a spiritual punch. Yun Xiao nced at them and felt a surge of emotion, as if he had truly endured hardships and was about to ascend as a genuine Immortal breaking through the barriers...

    "These three characters... they make my scalp tingle," Lian Xi said, her eyes reddening as she stared.

    "Indeed!" Yun Xiao said little else as they stepped through the Gate of Ascension together.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The scenery shifted before their eyes, celestial fog swirling around.

    A few steps forward, and the vista opened dramatically, revealing a floating golden pce inscribed with the words <em>Pce of Ascension</em>. This pce, grand and suspended, spanned 10,000 meters in both length and width¡ªa spectacle of opulence!

    Taking a deep breath, Yun Xiao and Lian Xi stepped into the pce.

    "Eh?"

    "These two young daoists, so youthful."

    "Could they be supreme talents from the mortal realm?"

    As soon as they entered, many eyes turned their way.

    Yun Xiao looked around and saw that the spacious hall was filled with nearly 100 individuals, all d in diverse attire and of varied forms¡ªmostly middle-aged and elderly.

    They shared one trait. They were all True Immortals! In stature, they were akin to those two children, Mu Shuo and Tao Shuo, from the Celestial Court.

    From their attire and demeanor, they were approachable, showing no airs of superiority. Yun Xiao quickly deduced they were all ascenders, just like <em>himself</em>.

    "Have these people just ascended through the realm barrier?"

    With questions in mind, Yun Xiao approached the gathered Immortals.

    "Little daoist friend,e,e," an old man in a green daoist robe beckoned. His hair was white as a crane''s and his youthful face radiated vitality, a very picture of an Immortal as imagined by mortal folk.

    "Greetings, senior," Yun Xiao said, stepping forward.

    "A fine pair of young Immortals," the elder smiled warmly, then introduced himself, "I am known as Qing Xuan, and you may call me big brother if you''d like."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Old man, you really have no shame. These children could well be your grandchildren, yet you wish to be called big brother?" This was said by a middle-aged man in an imperial robe, tall andmanding, likely a mortal emperor who had ascended.

    Afterughing at Qing Xuan, he bowed to Yun Xiao and said, "My name is Mo Daoyuan. A pleasure to meet you."

    Other True Immortals also expressed a desire to get acquainted and introduced themselves to Yun Xiao, who in turn graciously shared his name.

    "Your name is Yun Xiao?" A woman in a blue dress, standing a bit apart, asked. Her demeanor was cold, her face marked by a somber stillness as if weighed down by thoughts, making her seem aloof.

    "Yes, and may I ask how to address you, senior?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "I am Yun Xi. It appears we share a surname," the woman in blue responded, then crossed her arms and closed her eyes, seemingly impatient.

    "Never mind her, she''s as cold as ice. Thinks the Celestial Court is just like our mortal realms." Qing Xuan chuckled, then curiously asked, "Little daoist friends, I''m puzzled, why have you ascended without the true spirit of an Immortal?"

    Mo Daoyuan, the imperial figure, nudged Qing Xuan''s elbow, cautioning, "Old daoist, there are many strange things in the world; don''t ask what shouldn''t be asked."

    "Indeed!" Qing Xuan eximed, quickly stopping himself. "Apologies, I spoke out of turn."

    Their warmth was clearly tinged with curiosity, suspecting that these young ones might have backing from the Celestial Court.

    "There''s no need for formality. In this vast cosmos, our meeting is a fortuitous fate. With such fate,es affection. As neers to this realm, we can support each other and advance together," Yun Xiao earnestly replied.

    "Your words have enlightened this old man," Qing Xuan confessed, visibly moved.

    After this conversation, Yun Xiao and the others felt their camaraderie deepen.

    After chatting a bit more, Yun Xiao scratched his head and asked Qing Xuanin in a low voice, "What exactly are we waiting for here?"

    "You don''t know?" Qing Xuan replied, surprised.

    "The ascension was quite sudden; my master did not exin it fully," Yun Xiao feigned ignorance.

    With this mention of his <em>master</em>, confirming some sort of <em>background</em>, Qing Xuan did not dare to dy and patiently exined, "We are waiting to enter the Ascension Pool."

    "The Ascension Pool? What happens once we enter?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "You are quite naive, child," Qing Xuan replied with a bitter smile, yet he exined patiently, "Upon ascending, entering the Gate of Ascension, and joining the ranks of Immortals, the first step is to bathe in the Ambrosia Nectar within the Ascension Pool, which imbues our spirits with the Great Dao Imprint. With this imprint, we truly be Immortals of the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Otherwise, merely approaching the realm would see us reduced to ashes by the celestial formations of the Celestial Court!"

    Yun Xiao listened, his relief palpable. Fortunately, the heavenly power had mistakenly swept him into this Pce of Ascension. Otherwise, he and Lian Xi would have turned to ash by now.

    He thought again¡ªall who broke through to the Great Dao Celestial Realm likely ended up here directly, making it difficult to turn to ash.

    "Bathing in the Ascension Pool... And then?" Yun Xiao continued.

    Looking deeply into the distance, Qing Xuan spoke with longing, "ording to legend, the next step is to join the ranks of the Immortals. A great Heavenly Officer will descend to personally assess our qualities, sorting us into one of 108 celestial ranks. The high achievers ascend higher, transcending the mundane, while the lower ones start at the grassroots, yet they too shall enjoy celestial fortunes, free from worries!"

    "Ah, I see..." Yun Xiao listened nervously. He and Lian Xi were stowaways; if a great Heavenly Officer were to truly assess their qualities, wouldn''t that be the end for them?

    He nced into the misty depths and then asked again, "How long have you been waiting here?"

    "I was the first to arrive. I saw the previous group enter; it''s been a full quarter-hour since then," Qing Xuan sighed.

    "I''ve been waiting about half a quarter-hour," Mo Daoyuan said.

    "How many were in thest batch?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Each batch, 100," Qing Xuan replied with a smile. "Do not worry, little daoist friend; it will soon be our turn."

    "Ah, okay." Hearing this, Yun Xiao exchanged a nce with Lian Xi.

    "A quarter-hour for 100 ascenders, that¡¯s quite a few, isn¡¯t it? Why did Arbiter Lu mention that it''s been a while since there were any ascenders?" Yun Xiao whispered to Lian Xi.

    Lian Xi spected, "Maybe he doesn''t pay much attention?"

    Yun Xiao was still pondering when suddenly someone softly announced ahead, "The Heavenly Officer meant to guide us has arrived."

    None among them knew who wasing since all of them were first-time ascenders.

    Yun Xiao looked forward and saw an elderly Immortal approaching with a spring in his step. This Immortal had a notablyrge head with a shining forehead and short legs, leaning on a cane, a gourd hanging from his belt, and his white eyebrows nearly sweeping the ground, giving him a festive appearance.

    "Greetings, esteemed Immortal!" The ascenders bowed respectfully.

    The old Immortal waved them off, saying, "No need for that, stand up, stand up. We''ve got 100 here; hurry up and cross the bridge, the next batch is almost here."

    "Yes." Seeing the old Immortal''s hurried demeanor, which was somewhat endearing, everyone quietly marveled at how many ascenders there were.

    It couldn''t be helped. Like stars filling the sky, it was rare for a star to produce an ascender, but when the stars were numerous, so were the Immortals.

    "Keep up, keep up." The old Immortal hopped onto the bridge, and the 100 ascenders quickly followed.

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi blended into the crowd.

    Lian Xi''s appearance could easily draw attention, so Yun Xiao had her wear a white tiger mask.

    With the mask, she looked even more like Chen Xi.

    "The Ascension Pool is just ahead." Yun Xiao smelled a fragrance.

    The scent was clear, natural, rich, and somewhat like coconut, very sweet.

    Ahead, the mist was thick with celestial fog swirling, and the sound of flowing water was heard.

    They were nearly at the Ascension Pool!

    Each ascender gazed forward with a burning intensity in their eyes.

    Just then, the woman known as Yun Xi, dressed in blue, suddenly stepped forward and caught up with the old Immortal.

    <em>SPLASH! </em>She suddenly burst into tears, kneeling before the old Immortal, crying out, "I beseech you, esteemed Immortal, to champion the mortal beings of my realm!"

    After speaking, her face contorted with grief, tears and snot streaming. Her shoulders shook, betraying her helplessness.

    The old Immortal was momentarily taken aback before he turned and gently helped Yun Xi to her feet, asking in a soft voice, "Child, what sorrows weigh upon you? Speak to this old Immortal."

    With her eyes red and voice choked with misery, Yun Xi cried out, "In my realm, a century ago, a True Immortal came. Using methods unknown, he transformed the Five Cmities into the Five Decays, drawing the power of Heavenly Decay to afflict all living beings. He forced thousands of worlds to practice the Ascension Technique, burning their lifespans in vain as he devoured them! Now, the living are few, suffering immensely. I have endured a lifetime of hardship, solely to bring this plea to the Celestial Court on behalf of my people!"

    "Can this be true?" The old Immortal''s eyes widened in shock, deeply moved. He took Yun Xi''s hands in his, his eyes zing with resolve as he reassured her, "Calm yourself, child. I will report this matter forthwith. The Emperor will send someone to verify, and if true, the culprit shall surely be dealt with by thews of heaven!"

    Yun Xi, forever grateful on behalf of countless generations, bowed deeply before the old Immortal, her tears flowing freely as she knocked her forehead to the ground, heedless of the blood.

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao and Lian Xi watched this unfold, a chill running down their spines.

    Wasn¡¯t this the work of the Three Immortals? The Ascension Technique was practiced in Yun Xi''s mortal realm too?

    "That old Immortal didn''t even ask Yun Xi for the location of her homnd..." Lian Xi suddenly remarked with concern.

    Indeed, he seemed shocked and angry, but why hadn''t he asked where this was happening?

    As Yun Xiao frowned in thought, he saw Qing Xuan suddenly kneel before the old Immortal, his eyes burning with indignation, "Esteemed Immortal, in my realm, simr atrocities are beingmitted by four unknown True Immortals! I had nned to report this after joining the celestial ranks..."

    "Esteemed Immortal..." Mo Daoyuan took a deep breath, his voice trembling, "In our realm, two demonic Immortals are tormenting the people with poisonous parasites. Now, beings of all ages have prematurely aged."

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>One by one, the ascenders around Yun Xiao knelt down, each recounting the hardships of their own worlds.

    They had all been enduring in silence. Only Yun Xi could no longer hold back. And now, as they clenched their fists and fought back tears, voicing their suffering, they choked up and med themselves for their helplessness.

    These were the doings of powerful True Immortals!

    Until that moment, they had merely been fortunate enough to ascend. They had risen, carrying the hopes of their entire realms.

    In the end, including Yun Xiao and Lian Xi, only nine ascenders remained standing.

    "So many? So many cmities in the mortal realms? How could this be?"

    Even among these nine, there was a sense of shock. What was happening? Such a high proportion? Could this all be just a coincidence?

    In that instant, Yun Xiao, witnessing all this, could honestly say that even his toes felt ice cold. His understanding of everything was under a terrifying assault.

    His eyes were fixed intently on the old Immortal''s face, watching it shift from initial shock and anger to something else.

    As more people knelt, his anger suddenly took on a sinister edge; his face seemed to ze with rage, yet Yun Xiao saw him smile.

    It was a merciless, chilling smile that seemed to crawl under the skin.

    "Fellow daoists of the Immortal path!" The old Immortal''s eyes were red with fury as he dered, "Such atrocities in the mortal realms will surely provoke the Emperor''s wrath. This matter is beyond my authority. Please, hasten into the Ascension Pool, receive the Great Dao Imprint, and join the ranks of Immortals. I will take you to the Golden Throne of Heaven immediately!"

    "Thank you, esteemed Immortal!!" Qing Xuan and the others, their tears dried, now held only hope in their eyes.

    The scene wasden with irony.

    "Yun Xiao, no matter what, we shouldn''t enter the Ascension Pool!" Lian Xi said urgently.

    But as she spoke, the bridge beneath them vanished, and a celestial canopy mmed down, pressing them into the pool below, which was pure white!

    That canopy descending reminded Yun Xiao of a pot lid. And they, forced into the water, were like ingredients pressed into a pot¡­ Their entire world turned into a white furnace!

    <em>BOOM! </em>A loud noise sealed the furnacepletely!

    Amidst rising mists, the old Immortal floated upward, his white eyebrows fluttering.

    He took a contented sip from his gourd, then looked down at the white furnace below and chuckled dryly, muttering, "Every batch has to y out this tragic drama; will it ever end? My face is about to fall off from all this acting!"

    Humming a tune, he floated amidst the celestial fog, legs crossed, thoroughly enjoying himself.

    "Longevity Immortal!" In the distance, a group of tall celestial guards in dragon armor saluted the old Immortal and then announced, "The next batch of ascenders has entered the hall, please guide them."

    "Ugh!" The Longevity Immortal spat disdainfully, grumbling, "What''s with all the mortal realms? Ascenders are asmon as dogs; can''t they give me a break? Always brewing soup, so annoying!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 505: Where is the Justice of Heaven? Where is the Fairness?

    Chapter 505: Where is the Justice of Heaven? Where is the Fairness?

    <em>BOOM! </em>Inside the Ascension Pool, the pure white Ambrosia Nectar that smelled of coconut milk surged violently, sweeping over 100 souls.

    Each person was caught in its tumult, stumbling and swaying. Through half-closed eyes, all that could be seen was the sshing of the celestial mist and nectar, its rich fragrance filling the air.

    "After centuries of arduous cultivation, atst, I am marked by the Great Dao!" The ascenders bathed in the pool, unacquainted with the likes of Arbiter Lu and unaware of the looming danger. Far from fear, their expressions were solemn, their faces marked with reverence, awaiting the mark that would make them Immortals of the Celestial Court.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    In a single step, they rose to the heavens, their spirits soaring boundlessly.

    "Come here." Yun Xiao pulled Lian Xi close, holding her in his embrace, as they too drifted in the waves of the Ambrosia Nectar.

    Suddenly, the Soulfire Eye split open at his forehead, casting a cold gaze around, while Lian Xi''s delicate hands clung tightly around his waist, a look of indignation growing in her eyes.

    "Are you alright?" Yun Xiao waited a moment, but no anomaly urred.

    This Ambrosia Nectar was indeed a vast spiritual nourishment; it cleansed their bodies, flowed into their meridians, and concentrated into their spirit.

    "Purify the filth, ascend the gateway to heaven!" These solemn promations boomed around them."Excellent!" One by one, the ascenders sat cross-legged, holding their breath and concentrating, guiding the Ambrosia Nectar to cleanse their bodies.

    As the nectar entered them, their bodies quickly exuded Immortal energy, expelling impurities and seemingly undergoing a transformation.

    The effect brought smiles of enlightenment to the faces of Qing Xuan and Mo Daoyuan.

    "This Ambrosia Nectar is genuine, as is the Great Dao marking," Yun Xiao concluded through his Soulfire Eye.

    It was clear that these ascenders were undergoing a transformation; as the marks on their bodies solidified, they absorbed the power of the Great Dao Celestial Realm more smoothly.

    "Could we have been mistaken?" Lian Xi asked.

    "It''s hard to say." Yun Xiao did not stop the Ambrosia Nectar from cleansing their bodies, as this transformation would help them adapt to the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Then, Yun Xiao felt a new mark searing into his spirit, a symbol of belonging that drew him closer to the vast expanse of the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    "Has your mark formed as well?" Yun Xiao whispered.

    "Mhmm." Lian Xi nodded. She looked at the other ascenders who had seeded, her expression puzzled.

    "This is wonderful! With this mark, the Immortals will lead us to the Golden Throne of Heaven, and our path shall be unobstructed," Qing Xuan eximed, his voice filled with excitement.

    "Our mortal realms are saved!" Mo Daoyuan''s eyes reddened as he looked up, waiting for the Ascension Pool to activate.

    Yun Xiao, observing their hopeful faces, frowned and muttered under his breath, "Something is definitely wrong!"

    Indeed, at that moment, several deep holes seemed to open around the Ascension Pool, and a ck torrent burst forth, pouring into the pool!

    In just a short time, the entire pool was nearly ckened.

    "What is this?" The hopeful ascenders froze, staring nkly around. They hadn''t seen clearly yet, but Yun Xiao had!

    "The same Gu worms that devoured Arbiter Lu!" Yun Xiao''s face suddenly paled.

    Indeed, it was the All Life Devouring Gu!

    These thumb-sized ck flesh worms, both ends armed with fierce mandibles, clustered together, emitting a sinister chirping. Just one nce was enough to send shivers down the spine.

    What was more terrifying was their number¡ªbillions upon billions!

    Gurgling noises filled the air as they piled up like a sea in this enclosed space. When they sensed the scent of human flesh, they surged forward like ravenous wolves, scrambling over each other in a frenzied rush.

    "Everyone gets a share, my darlings, take your time!" Theugh of that old Immortal echoed into the Ascension Pool, pushing the bewildered ascenders to the brink of despair.

    They had cultivated painfully all their lives for ascension, just transformed and refined the quality of their flesh, and now, the very worms they feared most on earth had appeared in the Celestial Court''s Ascension Pool...

    "What is happening..." Qing Xuan, as if struck by lightning, stared wide-eyed. This was the most unfathomable sight of his life. Astonishment, confusion, and nkness filled their hearts.

    "Run!" Mo Daoyuan''s face drastically changed as he bellowed, summoning a celestial artifact.

    "I wondered how that evil Immortal managed such influence in the mortal realm; it turns out the exalted Great Dao Celestial Court is their main stronghold! Hahaha..."

    Tears of blood streamed down Yun Xi''s face, a look of profound despair etched into her features as she fell to her knees, crying out in anguish, "Where is the justice of heaven? Where is the fairness?"

    At the moment her words fell, billions of ck Gu worms engulfed them!

    Inside the Ascension Pool, sounds of flesh being gnawed, bones being crunched, and of course, the most piercing and desperate screams filled the air.

    In the mortal realms, where all creatures lived, they cultivated hard and dreamt of ascension.

    Who could have known that on the day of ascension, at the moment of realizing their dreams, they would meet such a tragic end?

    Could this era be called prosperous?

    The ascenders, recently met but united in purpose, one by one were devoured, their flesh, bones, and organs fiercely fought over and consumed!

    Their shattered and despairing faces sank into the dark frenzy right before Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    Qing Xuan, Mo Daoyuan, and Yun Xi¡­ Never in his life had Yun Xiao seen a more despairing death in anyone''s eyes.

    A lifetime of belief, copsed utterly andpletely. He couldn''t save them, he could barely save himself!

    "Ah!" Amid Lian Xi''s cries of terror, Yun Xiao could only hold her tightly, while unfurling the Prison Warden Sigil, wrapping them in multiple protectiveyers!

    The ck Gu worms indeed feared the purifying power of the nine-headed dragon, retreating in puffs of ck smoke as they tried to bite.

    Even so, their terrifying impact battered the wrapped pair, leaving them dazed and seeing stars.

    These Gu worms were robust and formidable, their assaults and gnashing also draining Yun Xiao''s celestial power.

    "Hold on!" Yun Xiao''s face paled, his teeth gritted in determination.

    He knew that aside from themselves, everyone else in the Ascension Pool was dead.

    "To fatten these worms, these haughty Iimmortals even deigned to rejuvenate us first with the Ambrosia Nectar!" he thought, his eyes zing red with fury.

    The pool trembled violently.

    "Little darlings, wait for the next batch!" The old Immortal''sughter rang out once more.

    The ck torrent of All Life Devouring Gu finally scattered away with a swish.

    Above them, the <em>lid</em> vibrated, clearly about to open.

    Yun Xiao had no choice but to sink to the bottom of the Ascension Pool!

    Herey the remnants the Gu worms couldn''t be bothered to eat, like pancreases, brain stems, nds... These were all that remained of the mortal dreamers who had aspired to ascend.

    "We''re just one batch! Over such a long time, how many ascenders havee here only to perish in despair?"

    The mortals believed ascension was the beginning, but it was, in fact, the end.

    "Quickly, dump the leftovers," the old Immortal instructed with a sinister chuckle.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The entire Ascension Pool flipped over, spilling its murky contents and the remains of the dead resembled leftover broth sloshing out of a pot.

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi were mixed within this grisly runoff, dumped out directly!

    Fortunately, in the midst of preparing for the next batch of ascenders, the Immortals paid no attention to any fish that slipped through the.

    Yun Xiao and Lian Xi clung together, wrapped in the foul broth as if they had crashed into a dark, stinking tunnel.

    More urately, it was the Celestial Court''s sewer!

    The flow was fierce, swirling them dizzyingly. Yun Xiao held Lian Xi tightly, repeating, "It''s okay, it''s all right now!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>After what felt like an eternity, light finally appeared ahead.

    Stabilizing himself, Yun Xiao looked towards the light, faintly hearing thunderous horse whinnies.

    "Where is this?" As he furrowed his brow, they were swept from the Celestial Court''s sewer into the unknown.

    Lian Xi, still shaken, said, "Look over there..."

 Chapter 506: Death of a Princess

    Chapter 506: Death of a Princess

    Yun Xiao''s journey through the Celestial Court felt like a dark nightmare from which he had yet to awaken.

    He followed the direction pointed by her finger and saw what seemed to be a row of stables. These stables stood majestic and solemn, housing batches of divine horses, some scaled like dragons, others with wings sprouting from their backs, and still others, bizarrely, with three heads and six legs!

    These celestial horses exuded a vast aura, thick and potent, with eyes bright and alert. Their bloodlines were mighty, true creatures of the Celestial Realm, not mere demons.

    Although these creaturescked the cunning of demons and their intelligence was not high, their pure lineage made them as formidable as the mythical beasts of old, perhaps even stronger than any demon.

    With a quick sweep, Yun Xiao saw thousands of these celestial horses! They were restless, neighing loudly and all turning their gaze toward him.

    The reason was clear: he stood right by their feeding troughs!

    A channel mixed with Ambrosia Nectar and remnants of carcasses flowed into the troughs, right before the eyes of these horses.

    "Well, I''ll be damned," Yun Xiao muttered. "Feeding the flesh of ascenders to bugs and the leftover broth to horses! That''s harsh!"

    Yun Xiao had once thought the cruelty of the Three Immortals was beyond imagination, but that was child''s ypared to this.Where was this ce? Looking up into the distance, Yun Xiao saw a massive column covered in scale armor carved with three characters¡ªSovereign Horse Stable!

    "This legendary ce in the Celestial Court is supposed to be bustling with Immortals. Even though we carry the mark of the Great Dao, our escape from the Ascension Pool means we¡¯re still not free from our mortal ties," Yun Xiao said coldly.

    "What should we do?" Lian Xi asked.

    "Once we leave the Sovereign Horse Stable, we''re free!" Yun Xiao dered.

    "But how do we get out?"

    "Into the coffin!" Yun Xiao couldn''t afford to wait. The celestial horses had noticed them and were growing excited, mming into the sides of the stables. Should any Immortals see them and recognize them as escapees from the Ascension Pool, they would face grave trouble.

    If they were going to sever ties cleanly, they had to cleanse their identities first.

    "What?" Lian Xi barely had time to react before Yun Xiao pulled her into the ancient bronze coffin.

    In the confining darkness of the ancient bronze coffin, Lian Xi clung to Yun Xiao, her voice trembling with innate dread, "Where are we?"

    "Stop pretending, it¡¯s not your first time here," Blue Star chortled.

    "Always the same shy plea for a hug, but Divine Dawn could never be bothered," Red Moon added with augh.

    "What?" Lian Xi''s confusion was palpable.

    Suddenly, the ancient coffin vibrated, seemingly traversing through space itself.

    "How can this be faster than the Skyruler Sword Vessel?" Lian Xi eximed in surprise.

    "It''s normal since this coffin burns through more cash," Yun Xiao mused, turning to Blue Star, "By the way, can you use a Celestial Sourcecore?"

    "That stuff is the raw power of the Great Dao, perfect for us, but it''s too hot to handle right now," Blue Star replied.

    That exined why the little ck beast hadn''t set their sights on the Celestial Sourcecore of the Devil Ark. It seemed even Red Moon had things he didn''t dare to touch!

    Throughout this ordeal, Lian Xi was utterly bewildered.

    Atst, the ancient bronze coffin halted abruptly after its rapid journey and ejected them.

    "Exhausting," Blue Star grumbled and rolled back into Yun Xiao''s embrace to rest.

    "Where are we?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "I''m not sure, but we''re definitely within the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Blue Star replied, his lips pursed.

    "The Great Dao Celestial Realm..." Yun Xiao looked ahead.

    He felt as though he was in an infinite sea of fire, with colorful celestial mist mingling with the waves of mes rolling past him. The entire world was an endless storm of fiery celestial mist.

    This was a zing world! If this was indeed the interior of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, it meant that most mortals below the realm of Yin and Yang Immortals had no chance of surviving here.

    "The most potent forces of the Celestial Sourcecore invariably carry the most brutal powers of destruction."

    That was the essence of this world.

    "Whew!" Yun Xiao took a deep breath, nced inward at the Great Dao mark upon his youthful spirit, and said, "At least for now, we are locals."

    "Yun Xiao, this Celestial Court..." Lian Xi began, but the thought of what had urred at the Ascension Pool caused her eyes to tremble, her lips already bitten raw, her gaze filled with an infinite resolve.

    She, an incarnation of transcending cmity, had seen her mission fulfilled by Yun Xiao.

    Now, a new mission beyond her dimensions, entwined with the mark of the Great Dao, was etched into her heart, amitment that wouldn''t end until death.

    "Winter doesn''t arrive in just one cold day; there''s no need to rush or lose heart," Yun Xiao said, his eyes fiery. Looking ahead, his voice firm with resolve, "Believe in yourself. We didn''t ascend to the heavens for a holiday; we came to settle debts!"

    "Yes! To settle debts! I''m with you," Lian Xi''s thoughts were mighty.

    Yun Xiao gently patted her shoulder. Today''s journey was indeed brutal, but it couldn''t frighten him.

    "Speaking of which, there''s another incarnation of transcending cmity here in the Celestial Court. That Divine Dawn is likely even stronger." Thinking this, Yun Xiao stole a nce at Lian Xi, wondering, "Lian Xi has transcended dimensions. What would happen if these two incarnations of transcending cmity met?"

    Now Lian Xi wore a mask of a white tiger.

    "We need to find a gathering spot to confirm our <em>local</em> status and get a decent picture of this Great Dao Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao said.

    "There seems to be a sound over there," Lian Xi pointed in a direction.

    "Let''s go." Yun Xiao, wielding his Sovereign Sword, carried her through the thick waves of fire and colorful celestial mist, racing through the howling sky.

    Ahead, through the dense clouds, the tip of an immense floating city began to reveal itself, like just the tip of an iceberg.

    As far as the eye could see, trillions of symbols glittered across the heavens, the floating city like a colossal beast of the earth and skies navigating through the waves of fire and celestial mist, equivalent to a Primordial Ruins 100 times over!

    It was dazzling and vast, the buildings above alive with billions of lightning serpents racing across their surfaces, erupting in deafening roars!

    And so, the floating city appeared as a giant''s head covered in 1,000,000,000 strands of lightning hair.

    "Truly magnificent..." As Yun Xiao approached this grand city, he too was overwhelmed.

    Yun Xiao fixed his gaze upon the city gates, seeing inscribed colossal characters hundreds of feet high.

    Thunder Department¡ªSky Soaring City!

    "Sky Soaring City? What''s its rtion to Thunder Department''s Skyruler Immortal Manor where Arbiter Lu resides?"

    The Skyruler Immortal Manor was aw enforcement agency, and Sky Soaring City a great city of the Celestial Court. Both belonged to the Thunder Department, so they likely had some connection.

    "Many Immortals areing and going," Lian Xi pointed at the city gates.

    "Let''s give it a try." If they could enter the city smoothly, it would all but confirm they were locals of the Celestial Court!

    Soon, the young pair descended on Yun Xiao''s Sovereign Sword, blending into the crowd of Immortals.

    There were no guards at the gates of Sky Soaring City.

    They held their breath as they walked, but soon, they stepped into the city.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The magical arrays of Thunder Department''s Sky Soaring City didn''t target them.

    "This means we''re truly free," Yun Xiao said. His and Lian Xi''s eyes met, each breathing a sigh of relief after the hardest part was behind them.

    "What a grand and vast city of the Immortals in the Celestial Court..."

    Having ovee their obstacles, they finally took the time to observe their surroundings.

    Before them was a multi-tiered city! It was wrapped in celestial mist, crisscrossed with magical arrays, and strangely luminous.

    Immortals moved through the air, busy with their own affairs. There were also non-ascended youths, walking in groups of twos and threes, their lives seeming quite pleasant.

    The entire city radiated light, purity, order, reverence, andw¡­ There was none of the eerie sensation of the Ascension Pool.

    This Sky Soaring City felt as if it had no hidden corners at all.

    "Which one is the real Celestial Court? Can we report the incident at the Ascension Pool to them?" Lian Xi found herself mired in confusion.

    "Look!" Yun Xiao said in a deep voice. He was never one to be overly optimistic. "Let''s walk around, listen a bit," he suggested.

    "Okay."

    Together, they wandered through the city of the Celestial Court like a couple of young lovers, albeit in a ce far grander and more mystical.

    Despite Yun Xiao''s striking looks, they seemed quite ordinary for their age and cultivation. They asionally drew nces, but nothing more.

    Everything here was more tranquil than they had imagined.

    Just when Yun Xiao began to rx a little, a sudden surge of people erupted on the main street ahead, many running wildly.

    Faint cries of agony could be heard.

    "What''s happening?" Yun Xiao and Lian Xi moved closer to investigate.

    They saw a crowd of celestial beings gathered ahead!

    In the center of the crowd, a woman d in white-gold armor was tear-streaked and in evident agony.

    "Arbiter Liu, please, tell us what has happened!" many Immortals urgently asked around her.

    Arbiter Liu looked at the crowd, her voice filled with sorrow as she announced, "The High Court of the Celestial Court formally mourns and informs all regions that Divine Dawn, the Seventh Princess, has passed away today, plunging the heavens into grief!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 507: The Reappearance of Lu Yao

    Chapter 507: The Reappearance of Lu Yao

    When Arbiter Liu spoke those words, the Immortals of Sky Soaring City stiffened, their faces dramatically changing.

    The atmosphere plunged into a dead silence!

    "I must have heard wrong! I must have heard wrong!"

    "It can''t be possible..."

    Thousands of Immortals, struck as if by lightning, shook their heads in denial, unwilling to ept this truth.

    "Arbiter Liu, there must be some mistake, right?"

    "Divine Dawn is in her prime, like the sun at high noon, unmatched across the Great Dao Celestial Realm¡ªhow could she suddenly be gone?"

    People crowded around Arbiter Liu, their faces etched with grief, desperately hoping to hear her dere it a false rumor...

    It was clear, the people of Sky Soaring City held Divine Dawn in the highest esteem.Arbiter Liu looked into their red-rimmed eyes, shook her head sadly, and continued to proim, "By imperial decree, starting today, for one month, all festivities and entertainment are banned throughout the Celestial Realm. Each day at dawn, all Immortals must line the streets tomemorate the historical contributions of Princess Shen Xi, who sorted chaos and alleviated suffering!"

    She dared not fabricate an imperial edict! With those words spoken, everything was set in stone, and the surrounding people were heartbroken.

    Some even copsed on the ground, weeping loudly.

    "The heavens envy the talented!"

    "Ah..."

    Others clenched their fists, their anger barely contained, asking, "Arbiter Liu, Divine Dawn had reached the heights of the Celestial Court¡ªit''s impossible for her to fall without cause. Has the cause of her death been disclosed?"

    "Arbiter Liu, what is the real truth?"

    A person took the lead, and soon, a crowd encircled Arbiter Liu, their gazes intense.

    "Everyone, please calm down a bit," Arbiter Liu said, her expression puzzled, straightforwardly informing them, "While the cause of death has not been disclosed, there is indeed a bounty for her assassin."

    "A bounty for murder? That means... it was murder?"

    "Who! Who could it be?"

    The people''s eyes zed with a fiery demand for an answer from Arbiter Liu.

    When Arbiter Liu''s voice rose to quell the tumult, the Immortals fell silent, eagerly awaiting the details of the bounty.

    "By decree of the Celestial Court," Arbiter Liu announced, "anyone who provides tangible information regarding the demise of Divine Dawn will be enlisted into the Golden Immortal Rank, appointed as a Rank 5 Heavenly Officer, rewarded with a cartload of treasures, and blessed for ten generations!"

    The crowd buzzed with renewed fervor at her deration.

    "Merely for providing clues, one can gain so much?"

    "It''s clear the Emperor is deeply grieved by the passing of his seventh princess..."

    "The Emperor has six sons and one daughter; Divine Dawn was his favorite. s, to lose a beloved child..."

    Sighs and shaking heads rippled through the crowd as they awaited further announcements from Arbiter Liu.

    She spoke again, "The Celestial Court also decrees that the one who ys the true culprit will be elevated to a Rank 2 Ster Margrave, granted a domain of stars, blessed for 100 generations!"

    "Ster Margrave!"

    This pronouncement stirred the city into heated discussion anew.

    The Immortals who were less concerned with the tragedy of Divine Dawn now showed keen interest in the rewards mentioned.

    Amidst the swirling undercurrents of vast Sky Soaring City, shaken by this monumental case, stood Yun Xiao and Lian Xi, watching quietly from not far away.

    "It looks like a failed transcending of cmity, and she was murdered too," Blue Starmented.

    "Every moment, the Ascension Pool devours living Immortals. Her mission wasn''t over; it must have been murder," Yun Xiao agreed, a cold fire in his eyes.

    Though he had never met this third Divine Dawn, his profound memories and encounters with the first two left no room for indifference. He had never met the seventh princess, but her death still stirred in Yun Xiao a sense of indignation and sorrow.

    This death carried a tragic regret.

    "Bluey, there''s no rule saying a ce can''t have two incarnations of transcending cmity, is there?" Yun Xiao asked quietly.

    Lian Xi had just arrived when the princess passed away.

    Yun Xiao was slightly worried it might be connected to Lian Xi.

    "It''s unlikely; otherwise, it would be the one beside you who should die. That old hag means real business; she wouldn''t cripple her own power for no reason," Blue Star exined.

    "That''s a relief..." Yun Xiao spoke, squeezing Lian Xi''s hand.

    She now carried Yun Xiao''s hopes for Chen Xi; he genuinely feared losing her suddenly, and with her, all connections.

    Today''s announcement was a warning to Yun Xiao that an incarnation of transcending cmity could indeed die!

    "Yun Xiao," Lian Xi began, a concerned look on her face. "The seventh princess herself is involved, and those who dare touch her wield great power within the Celestial Court. Could they be the originators of the turmoil in the mortal realms and the Ascension Pool? The fiend behind the Gu breeding? Are the likes of the Three Immortals merely his minions?"

    Despite sensing the loss of Divine Dawn, Lian Xi was not defeated. Her mind was clear, pondering it all.

    "You''re right. Are these not clues then? The Heavenly Peach Immortal, the Ascension Pool?" Yun Xiao added sharply.

    "Should we investigate her death?" Lian Xi asked.

    "What do you think?" Yun Xiao replied, looking deeply into her eyes.

    Grasping his hands tightly, she urgently said, "We cultivate not just for ourselves but to uphold an ideal world. It may not be perfect, but at least it should not be so cruel and vile. Fighting against wicked Immortals like the Three Immortals is my life''s pursuit. All thosemon folk of those mortal realms, all those ascenders full of ideals¡ªthey are not mere numbers; they are real lives... If we do not strive, who in this world will speak for them?"

    After listening, Yun Xiao took her hands in his, his voice soft, "Lil Xi, you carry justice and pity for the world, often seeming a bit oblivious to the selfish and the opportunistic."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "And you?" Lian Xi asked nervously.

    "I think... it''s adorable. I like girls who are adorable," Yun Xiao replied.

    Lian Xi pouted slightly but felt a wave of relief inside. She was afraid. Afraid her ideals were too grand, afraid that Yun Xiao would lose his courage to fight and resist. Yet now, it seemed his fighting spirit was unshaken by the omnipresence and strength of their foes.

    "Lil Xi, do you know?" Yun Xiao looked up towards the vast expanse of Sky Soaring City, his tone somber, "I don''t usually favor those who unt righteousness and moral superiority. But more than that, I despise those without principles or reverence, whomit atrocities and yet preach their so-called truth to me!"

    So, who killed Divine Dawn? He wanted to know too!

    "However, we''ve only just marked ourselves with the imprint of the Great Dao,cking even official identities. How do we find an entry point to unravel this situation?" Lian Xi mused, her gaze sweeping the bustling streets of the Celestial Court, deep in thought.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes were locked on Arbiter Liu, who stood in shining tinum armor, her long hair tied back, a figure both delicate and bursting with heroic vigor. She looked every part the decisive, serious elder sister.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao pointed at her and dered, "Her name is Liu Mumu, she¡¯s the direct superior of Arbiter Lu, and also the master of his brother, Lu Yao."

    "How do you know that?" Lian Xi asked, surprised.

    "I have the divine sight that knows all things," Yun Xiao said solemnly.

    "Nonsense! You¡¯re just teasing me again. You must have read Lu Yao¡¯s diary," Lian Xi pouted.

    "Cough." Yun Xiao let out an awkwardugh.

    Indeed, he had. Originally, Yun Xiao had borrowed the item from Arbiter Lu to marvel at the grand depictions of the Celestial Court in Lu Yao¡¯s drawings. The paintings of that vast world had amazed him.

    Little did he expect that he would so soon find himself within the very scenes from those paintings.

    As for thetter part of the diary, Yun Xiao hadn¡¯t intended to read it. But now, with Arbiter Lu gone and no ce to return the paintings, he sought clues in the diary, hoping to find any information about potential enemies of Arbiter Lu.

    And so, in a short span, he had read through the diary of a hot-blooded young Immortal of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, filled with ideals.

    The entries stopped on the day of the Arbiter assessment.

    Lu Yao had been prepared, his heart brimming with excitement, on the verge of realizing his dreams, when he vanished. Today, these two brothers hadpletely disappeared from the world. Without a trace. Without causing a ripple. Who would remember them now?

    Yun Xiao put away the diary and watched Arbiter Liu, dimming quietly among the crowd, her figure fading away as a surge of light grew in his eyes.

    "Let''s go." Yun Xiao grasped Lian Xi''s hand and chased after Arbiter Liu, who turned into a less crowded street, then suddenly whirled around, her cold eyes fixing on Yun Xiao. She frowned and demanded, "Who are you, boy, to dare follow an Arbiter?"

    Yun Xiao''s clenched eyes slowly rxed, revealing a tumult of emotions. He swallowed hard, then finally managed a single word. "Master..."

    "What did you call me?" Liu Mumu paused briefly, then transformed into a fragrant breeze, appearing abruptly before Yun Xiao, her beautiful eyes scrutinizing him.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes trembled slightly as he spoke, "Master, the bitter flower tea is still best from Mount Sulfur. When I be an Arbiter, I can be stationed there and bring back a whole cart for you, alright?"

    Hearing this, Liu Mumu''s beautiful eyes seemed to freeze.

    She stared at Yun Xiao, her voice quivering, "Lu Yao?"

    Yun Xiao''s eyes reddened, but a smile squeezed through, "It''s been ten years, Master, and you still carry that heroic grace. Just one look and it''s clear you haven¡¯t taken a celestial spouse."

    "You..." Liu Mumu reached out and gripped his shoulders tightly. She examined Yun Xiao for a long time, murmuring, "Child, how did you get so handsome? Did you have surgery?"

    "Master, I just grew up," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Bullshit you grew up, you look even younger than ten years ago..." Liu Mumu began, her voice breaking as tears welled up. Her grip on Yun Xiao''s arm turned into a patting, and as she patted, she said, "Good, it¡¯s good you¡¯re back. Your brother can finally be at peace, and your mother won¡¯t have to cry every day."

    At this, Yun Xiao was fairly certain she believed him.

    Lu Yao was a meticulous man; he liked to jot down daily details, which was how Yun Xiao knew about Liu Mumu''s love for bitter flower tea and more.

    In terms of appearance, he and Lu Yao were merely simr. But ten years changed many things¡ªfaces, personalities¡­ it wasmon.

    "Lu Yao, where have you been all these years?" Liu Mumu asked, her tone turning serious.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 508: I Want to Take the Exam!

    Chapter 508: I Want to Take the Exam!

    "I..." Yun Xiao hung his head low and said, "When I failed the Arbiter examination, I was too ashamed to face everyone and ran away."

    He had barely finished speaking when suddenly a p struck Yun Xiao''s face, leaving him stunned.

    Liu Mumu red at him furiously and scolded, "How can you be so thoughtless? If you fail, you fail¡ªlife isn''t made of only victories. Do you have any idea how much your brother has suffered these years searching for you? And your mother, it was her dream for you to be an Arbiter. Do you know how much she mes herself since your disappearance?"

    Yun Xiao found himself speechless. A crowd was but a number. Yet, only by delving into each family could one understand that whether Immortals or mere mortals, they were all vividly alive, driven by emotions and desires.

    Having chosen to use Lu Yao as an entry point to secure a local identity for himself, Yun Xiao could only ept everything.

    "I was wrong, and so, I have returned to make amends," Yun Xiao said through gritted teeth.

    "To admit one''s error is a virtue unmatched." Hearing his apology, Liu Mumu quickly forgave him. After all, it seemed she too cared deeply for her disciple.

    "But what is your cultivation level now?" Liu Mumu asked with a frown.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Near a Yang Immortal..." Yun Xiao said, somewhat embarrassed."How have you regressed?" Liu Mumu said, speechless.

    "I gave up on myself after the failure..."

    "Enough!" Liu Mumu grabbed his cor, nearly roaring, "I don''t care what kind of decade you''ve had, but now that you are back under my tutge and still recognize me as your master, you will not be a failure again! You have today to reunite with your brother and mother. Starting tomorrow,e to the Skyruler Immortal Manor to find me, and I will guide your training!"

    "Skyruler Immortal Manor?"

    Indeed, the Skyruler Immortal Manor was within Sky Soaring City.

    Liu Mumu¡¯s words aligned perfectly with Yun Xiao''s needs. Newly arrived, he needed to grasp a vine of the Celestial Court and climb it fiercely.

    A responsible Liu Mumu was just that strong, reliable vine. She was a leader among Arbiters, a Rank 8 Heavenly Officer with a significant standing in Sky Soaring City, and from a powerful family.

    "Master, rest assured, by choosing to return, I''m ready to bravely face the Immortal path," Yun Xiao dered with resolve.

    "Don''t brag too much. You know how brutal my training can be. Don''t end up crying and begging like a weakling, bringing shame upon yourself, you little wimp!" Liu Mumuughed heartily.

    Yun Xiao was left speechless. Indeed, though Lu Yao was passionate at heart, he was somewhat tender, often bullied.

    Little wimp was his nickname in Sky Soaring City. And so, he preferred to express his inner thoughts through painting and keeping a diary. Who would have thought that a fierce fugitive like him would now take on this nickname?

    "Master, I promise toplete the task this time," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "Promise?" Liu Mumu pursed her lips and asked, "Kid, is it still your dream to be an Arbiter?"

    "Of course! Although an Arbiter is but a Rank 9 Heavenly Officer and the lowest at the Celestial Court, they are the sharp tools of the Celestial Court''s will, the great foundationyer, the frontline heroes against sin and cmity, the defenders of the heavenlyws and order!" Yun Xiao''s eyes shimmered with fervor.

    "Ha! You sound just like you used to," Liu Mumu couldn''t help butugh and cry at the same time.

    Nonsense! Yun Xiao was simply reciting from Lu Yao''s diary.

    "Alright!" Afterughing, Liu Mumu pondered and muttered, "This year''s Arbiter examination is tomorrow. Starting as an Arbiter requires the strength of a True Immortal, and you''re only near a Yang Immortal... Well, I''ll set a goal for you!"

    "Please tell," Yun Xiao said.

    "Three years from now," Liu Mumu stared at him, "in three years, you must pass the Arbiter examination, or you''ll indeed be too old, and you''ll never have another chance to be a Heavenly Officer."

    For someone of humble origins, bing an Arbiter was the first step. Without this, the future was bleak, unless one had connections or a powerful background.

    "Give me three years..." Yun Xiao scratched his head, "You just said this year''s Arbiter exam is tomorrow?"

    "Yes. So I''ll send you to your brother''s manor shortly, I need to get back. I''m an examiner for the first time this year, and there''s much to prepare," Liu Mumuined with a frown, "Lately, people keep inviting me out, offering gifts, testing my integrity. I firmly refuse!"

    "They''re going about it all wrong; they should have sent you a dao partner. You might have reluctantly epted that," Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Lu Yao," Liu Mumu red at him, "Don''t ever say that again."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao was stunned.

    Liu Mumu, embarrassed and blushing, whispered, "I¡ªI and your brother are betrothed..."

    "Uh," Yun Xiao was taken aback. He recalled the image of Arbiter Lu''s body devoured till only his skin fluttered in the sky like a kite.

    "Don''t tell anyone!" Liu Mumu said sternly, "My family doesn''t approve, so this matter... your brother has been under a lot of pressure. He''s been taking missions abroad these past years, also to umte enough to gain the approval of my parents and n."

    Her background was impable, and she was Arbiter Lu''s superior¡ªa match made in a way that, in any society, would be hard for others to affirm.

    But Yun Xiao knew, how could true love ever be merely a transaction, a mereparison of conditions?

    "Master, I understand," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Liu Mumu bit her lip, whispering, "Privately, calling me sister-inw wouldn''t be wrong."

    "Sister-inw..." As Yun Xiao uttered these words, his heart was in turmoil.

    The soft light in Liu Mumu''s eyes dreamt of their future. But how could she know that the man had already perished in a whirlpool of sin!

    Yun Xiao turned and exchanged a nce with Lian Xi.

    Lian Xi was emotional; her eyes reddened again, perhaps the anger towards that dark vortex deepened much more.

    The All Life Devouring Gu, the Ascension Technique, the Three Immortals... this was far from over.

    Only a corner of a monstrous scheme had been unveiled, chilling to the bone.

    Underneath this dark veil, an Arbiter like Arbiter Lu was merely a wisp of inconspicuous smoke, easily snuffed out.

    "Ah, who is this?" Liu Mumu asked with a cunning smile.

    "Well, my dao partner..." Yun Xiao said, bracing himself.

    "Dao partner?" Liu Mumu beckoned Lian Xi closer, asking, "Why does the youngdy wear a mask?"

    Just as Yun Xiao was about to exin, Liu Mumu was quicker. A gust of wind came, and she tore off Lian Xi''s white tiger mask.

    "Ah¡­!?" Liu Mumu looked at the youthful and ethereal face revealed, visibly stunned.

    She suddenly turned back to Yun Xiao.

    "Master, because she resembles that person, she has attracted much misfortune, so she must wear a mask," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Oh..." Liu Mumu observed Lian Xi for a moment before returning the white tiger mask to her, cautioning, "Wearing it like this isn''t secure. Think of a way to weld the mask to her face, or even disfigure her."

    "You can''t be serious?" Yun Xiao said.

    Liu Mumu said. "I''m not joking. Especially after the fall of Divine Dawn today, her appearance in this world is more serious than you imagine."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked. "It''s just a resemnce."

    "Lu Yao," Liu Mumu warned with gravity, "You''ve just managed toe home. Concerning Divine Dawn, you must not harbor any curiosity, nor even mention it. And this girl..."

    She looked at Lian Xi with utmost seriousness. "If you truly care for him and want a peaceful life, you really can''t keep that face."

    "Yes..." Lian Xi put on her white tiger mask obediently.

    Seeing them sopliant, Liu Mumu''s heart softened. "Alright, I''ll look around these next few days, see if I can find some decent masks."

    "Thank you, Master," Yun Xiao said.

    "You''re wee," Liu Mumu sighed, looking at them. "Love is a beautiful thing. If your mother knew you were home and brought a little bride, imagine how happy she''d be?"

    After speaking, she added, "Come on, hurry back to your Lu Immortal Manor."

    Lu Immortal Manor was the home of Arbiter Lu. The manor wasrge, but Arbiter Lu was not the head of the household. He and his brothers were considered side branches, of lower birth.

    From Lu Yao''s diary, it was understood that their mother had been a concubine. The brothers had a harsh upbringing. It wasn''t until Lu An became an Arbiter that things got somewhat better.

    "Your brother''s been out and abouttely, probably not at home." As they walked, Liu Mumu spoke of this man, her lips curving into a small smile. "The fellow is foolish but sweet. Every time he returns, he brings me a little gift, quite thoughtful."

    After a pause, seeing Yun Xiao not responding, sheughed. "Why so quiet?"

    Yun Xiao grinned sheepishly. "Just remembered something."

    "What is it?"

    "Recently, didn''t something big crash into the Celestial Court? I thought I heard people talking about it," Yun Xiao said.

    The topic shifted swiftly, but Liu Mumu was also curious about this incident. "I''ve heard too. It''s a ck celestial column that struck the Empress Dowager''s Kunlun Mountain. That area''s been sealed off by the Celestial Court now, only high officials can investigate."

    "Oh..."

    The Empress Dowager''s Kunlun Mountain!

    Yun Xiao took note of that ce. He was climbing the ranks in Sky Soaring City just to qualify to visit ces like the Empress Dowager''s Kunlun Mountain.

    "By the way..." Liu Mumu pursed her lips and said, "It''s said that the ce where the seventh princess fell is also on Kunlun Mountain."

    Yun Xiao''s eyes flickered! That ce surely held many truths he wanted to uncover! He also remembered something else! Since he had started asking, he decided to probe everything he wanted to know in one go.

    And so, after chatting idly with Liu Mumu for a while, he suddenly asked as if by ident, "Master, what would happen if the stars in the sky shattered?"

    "The people inside would all be gone," Liu Mumu said.

    "That''s too tragic. Doesn¡¯t the Celestial Court have any way to protect them?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Of course, there is." Liu Mumu nced back at him and said, "The lord of Sky Soaring City possesses an Immortal artifact, the Boundary Stabilizing Divine Needle, which can stabilize a mortal realm, prevent its shattering, and bless the living... This is precisely the mission of the Celestial Court."

    "Impressive!" Yun Xiao nodded in admiration.

    He hadn''te to the wrong ce!

    "We''ve arrived at Lu Immortal Manor." Liu Mumu pointed to a mansion shrouded in celestial mist ahead, then said to Yun Xiao, "Here''s your home."

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao lifted his head.

    "Ten years away, and you hardly recognize the way, do you?" Liu Mumu smiled.

    "You''re right. I feel a bit lost," Yun Xiao admitted.

    "Indeed!" Liu Mumu turned and pointed towards another mansion in the distance. "That over there is the Lu Immortal Manor."

    Yun Xiao paused, then shook his head and chuckled bitterly.

    Liu Mumu said nothing further, just waving her hand, "Go on, go home. Your mother has waited far too long."

    Yun Xiao took a few steps forward, then turned back resolutely and asked, "Master, may I stille to you for further instruction tomorrow?"

    "Yes," Liu Mumu said.

    "Thank you!"

    With that, Yun Xiao and Lian Xi hurried toward the Lu Immortal Manor.

    After they left, Liu Mumu copsed at a street corner, pulling out a hairpin, and tears streamed down like rain.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 509: A Mothers Love

    Chapter 509: A Mother''s Love

    At the entrance to the Lu Immortal Manor, several armored guards stood, their prowess akin to that of the Yang Immortals.

    Such individuals, if young, still had hope. But the older ones, within the vast expanse of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, were considered the lowest of the low.

    As Yun Xiao and Lian Xi approached the gate, the guards exchanged nces. Finally, an older guard stepped forward and asked, "May I know who you are, sir?"

    Yun Xiao replied calmly, "I am of Lu Immortal Manor, Lu Yao."

    "Lu Yao?" The younger guards did not recognize the name, but the older guard''s eyes widened with a mix of shock and recognition. "I remember you,d. Haven''t you been missing for years? Everyone thought you were dead!"

    Yun Xiao just shook his head and smiled, offering no further exnation.

    "Hard to believe, after all these years, you still look so young," the older guard remarked with a raised eyebrow and a chuckle. "Do you remember me?"

    "I don''t," Yun Xiao said simply.

    There was nothing much to say to a guard.The older guardughed heartily and pped him on the shoulder, his expression odd. "It seems your memory has worsened along with your absence from the Celestial Court, eh? Looks like you''ve been up to quite a bit."

    He was just a guard, and Lu Yao was a member of the Lu Immortal Manor''s family. There should have been a clear master-servant divide, yet this older guard showed no awareness of such distinctions.

    Yun Xiao, uninterested in further banter, passed by with Lian Xi, stepping into the spirit-filled environs of the Lu Immortal Manor.

    "Shouldn''t we tease him a bit?" Another guard chuckled, looking after them.

    "Tease him? Did you not see that it was Arbiter Liu who escorted him back? Arbiter Liu is a Rank 8 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court. Who dares to mess with her people?" The older guard rolled his eyes.

    "Right... And his brother is a Rank 9 Arbiter."

    With that, the guards could only smirk sheepishly and return to their posts, idly passing the time.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Lu Immortal Manor, Yun Xiao led Lian Xi through the vast grounds of the estate.

    The estate was nourished by a Celestial Sourcecore, enchanting every nt and tree with celestial energy. Even the stone pirs and tiles, long infused with celestial essence, shimmered with a magical glow, suggesting that with a mere touch, they might turn into sacred artifacts.

    The entirety of the Lu Immortal Manor radiated an air of lofty elegance and opulent grandeur, resembling the celestial pces mortals dreamed of. Yet, in the heavens, it was but an ordinary abode.

    "Yun Xiao, do you know where Arbiter Lu''s home is?" Lian Xi asked quietly as she followed behind.

    To avoid exposing their identities, they certainly couldn''t just ask for directions.

    "In Lu Yao''s paintings, he depicted his home and its surroundings. I recognize the ce," Yun Xiao replied, ncing around. The asional Immortal and their servant passed by, paying no attention to them¡ªa testament to the fact that this was a grand family estate where unfamiliar faces were not unusual.

    "Oh." Lian Xi tugged at his sleeve, her eyes wide with curiosity as she looked around.

    Suddenly, she remembered something. "Did Arbiter Liu realize you were an imposter?"

    Yun Xiao stopped and nodded. "Yes, she did."

    "But she didn''t expose you. She even said you could go to her for cultivation... Why is that?" Lian Xi was puzzled.

    "I''m not sure either," Yun Xiao said, his gaze sharpening. "Anyway, as stowaways from the mortal realm, if we''re exposed and caught, we''d surely be executed. Lu Yao''s identity has many ws, but we don¡¯t have other options. We might as well try."

    "Mhm." Lian Xi understood; they had just ascended to the Celestial Court and were utterly lost.

    If someone kindly offered to guide them on the path of immortality, their inherent talents would allow them to rise swiftly.

    "The Immortal Asylum, Divine Dawn, and the scourge of parasitic Gu¡ªall tie into the dark secrets at the core of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, far beyond our reach. For now, our priority must be to acquire the Boundary Stabilizing Divine Needle from Sky Soaring City to prevent the destruction of the myriad worlds." Yun Xiao''s goals were clear, his eyes alight with resolve.

    Lian Xi gazed at him admiringly. She realized then that Yun Xiao, filled with idealism and a righteous fury, seemed even more enchanting. Perhaps luck was on their side, for it wasn¡¯t long before Yun Xiao found a secluded courtyard on the edge of the Lu Immortal Manor.

    "This is their home," Yun Xiao said,paring the scene before him with the painting and nodding in confirmation.

    "There''s also the mother of Arbiter Lu..." Lian Xi mentioned.

    Yun Xiao steeled himself and said, "We have no choice but to y along. As long as she recognizes me as her son, no one will suspect."

    "That''s true. After all, who would mistake their own son?" Lian Xi said with a naive chuckle.

    But she knew in her heart that deceiving a mother was perhaps the hardest thing in the world. So, she felt quite uncertain about the <em>test</em> thaty ahead.

    While she was still pondering how to deceive Arbiter Lu''s mother, Yun Xiao, without a second word, pushed open the gate and stepped into the courtyard.

    "Going all-in with sincerity, huh?" Lian Xi murmured to herself as she quietly followed him inside.

    Upon entering, the young man and woman halted.

    The courtyard was small, nted with vegetables that shimmered with celestial energy, their colors vibrant and fragrances sweet. Nearby, several celestial pigs with big eyes stared nkly around. These pigs were adorably pink, exhaling fragrant breaths.

    When strangers entered, the celestial pigs sensed danger, grunting as they pressed their front legs down and scraped the earth with their back legs.

    "How adorable," Lian Xi said, her eyes sparkling with delight.

    But Yun Xiao''s gaze drifted to a corner of the courtyard. There stood a small temple with an incense burner inside. The burner held offerings to an emperor d in a golden dragon robe and a purple-gold crown.

    A thin woman in in clothes kneeled before the temple, whispering devoutly. First, she offered incense to the Celestial Emperor, then bowed deeply with three prostrations and nine kowtows.

    "Great Emperor... protect... my eldest and youngest sons..."

    Yun Xiao, standing quietly at the doorway, overheard these words. He watched the woman, thoughts of Arbiter Lu crowding his mind, unsure of what to say.

    After a while, the kneeling woman, hearing the pigs''motion, stood up and turned around, asking softly, "Son, have you returned?"

    Yun Xiao looked closely. The woman''s eyes were devoid of whites, just two charred, rough, and cracked ck orbs, like coal that had been burned.

    It was hard to imagine these as human eyes.

    Indeed, Lu Yao''s mother was blind, seeing nothing.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    In her youth, at the level of a Yang Immortal, she should not have gonepletely blind.

    The reason was recorded in Lu Yao''s diary!

    It seemed that in her youth, she hadmitted a grave error and was punished by the head of the manor with the Cauldron of Fire punishment, which burnt out her eyes as a lesson for her <em>sightlessness.</em>

    As for the details, even Lu Yao did not know; his mother refused to revisit the past.

    However, these blind eyes had always been a great regret and source of pain for the brothers, especially for Lu Yao. Since he could remember, his mother had always been like this.

    Naturally, she could not see Yun Xiao!

    For Yun Xiao, this reduced some of the difficulty and was partly why he was willing to attempt this. He looked at the woman, his emotions aplex mix. He knew that deceiving someone was wrong. Especially deceiving the unfortunate, that was something one ought to despise. But what about a deception meant kindly?

    Yun Xiao struggled with this for a while, thinking of the brothers no longer being around, perhaps he could help their mother... So, he finally spoke out, "Mother, it''s Lil Yao."

    Telling this lie was far harder than facing Arbiter Liu had been.

    His voice trembled slightly as he spoke. But this only made it sound more genuine, as if emotions were truly spilling forth.

    These words struck like thunder in the ears of the mother.

    She stepped back instinctively, pointing in Yun Xiao''s direction with a mix of confusion and panic, "Young master, stop joking around, please don''t y tricks with Xiao Yao."

    Yun Xiao paused. Young master, who? Now that he had started, he was all in, saying, "Mother, do you still have the portrait I drew for you before I went to the Arbiter examination?"

    "Portrait, my portrait..." The in-dressed woman trembled, steadying herself with one hand on a nearby tree and fumbling in her bosom with the other, clutching a piece of drawing paper she carried with her.

    "I''m sorry, I''ve been gone too long." Watching her mix of frantic and suppressed joy, Yun Xiao''s voice shook too.

    "Lil Yao!" The woman finally managed to shout these words from her throat. For a moment, she seemed to forget she was blind and rushed toward Yun Xiao.

    <em>THUD! </em>She stumbled, falling hard to the ground, her face smeared with dirt.

    However, as if nothing had happened, she scrambled to her feet, rolling and crawling toward Yun Xiao''s direction and embraced him.

    <em>CRASH! </em>She collided into Yun Xiao, clutching his arm tightly, her nails digging into his skin and drawing blood, as if terrified that this was all just a dream.

    "I''m sorry, I''m sorry!" As she embraced Yun Xiao, tears burst forth, and she wailed, "It''s all my fault! I won''t force you to be an Arbiter anymore, no more..."

    After speaking, she gripped Yun Xiao''s arms tightly, pleading desperately, "Don¡¯t leave home again, will you? Please, will you?"

    Yun Xiao''s memories of his parents had faded over time. So, when he saw a mother clinging to him like a drowning person, saw her tears and pained expression... could the sentiments of the human world really be as trivial as the indifferent cultivators imed?

    He couldn''t ept that. At least in this moment, he felt a mother''s decade of suppressed regret and love. The tears she shed were ck like ink. This was the legacy of the Cauldron of Fire punishment.

    ording to Lu Yao''s diary, each time his mother cried, her eyes would hurt so much they twitched and she screamed in pain.

    And so, the brothers had always been exceedingly careful, unwilling to make her cry or disappoint her. This was also why Lu Yao longed to be an Arbiter. They desperately wanted her to be happy. But who knew how many times she had cried during the ten years of Lu Yao''s disappearance?

    Fortunately, although she cried a lot this time, these were tears of joy, and it seemed she even forgot the pain in her eyes, her heart filled only with the hope grasped in her hands...

 Chapter 510: Family Conspiracy!

    Chapter 510: Family Conspiracy!

    Yun Xiao''s eyes trembled. He grasped the hand of the woman in in clothes, his voice soft yet resolute, "Mother, don''t worry, I won''t leave you again."

    Though it was a lie, at least Yun Xiao gave her hope. He decided to rectify the regrets of Arbiter Lu, ensuring her a peaceful life in her remaining years.

    "Good! Good!" Upon hearing this, the woman''s tears flowed even more, darkening her entire face. But beneath thatyer of dark tears, there was a long-missing smile.

    "Stop crying, it hurts your eyes more. I''vee home, and that''s a reason for joy. No more tears," Yun Xiao said sternly.

    "Alright, alright¡­" The woman nodded repeatedly, yet couldn''t stop her tears from falling.

    Fortunately, a thought struck her, and she hurriedly said, "Sit down, I''ll cook for you. I''ve grown celestial vegetables, beneficial for cultivation. Your brother always wanted to eat them, but I didn''t let him, I saved them all for you, Lil Yao¡­"

    "Don''t fuss, I''m not hungry," Yun Xiao quickly interjected.

    "Not hungry? Then I''ll go out and buy you some clothes! I have money saved, unspent, all for you!" the woman said excitedly, as if only by keeping busy could she find some peace, fulfilling her duties as a mother.

    "Mother, don''t go anywhere. Let me tell you something cheerful." Yun Xiao caught her, finally calming her down."What cheerful news¡­" she asked, stunned.

    "Lian Xi,e here." Yun Xiao beckoned.

    The young girl, having watched from the side, her eyes reddened again. A sensitive girl, her thoughts always pure, indeed she was pristine.

    "Mother, hold her hand." Yun Xiao took Lian Xi''s hand and ced it in the woman''s palm, smiling, "Do you feel it? Smooth and delicate, the hand of a beautiful girl."

    "I feel it! I feel it!" the woman said nervously.

    "Do you now?" Yun Xiao chuckled, holding their hands, "Let me introduce her, this is your daughter-inw, named Lian Xi."

    Finishing, he winked at Lian Xi, "Say hello!"

    "Hello!...Ah no, Mother¡­" Caught off guard by the situation, Lian Xi was immensely nervous.

    "Daughter-inw!" The woman let go of Yun Xiao''s hand, clutching Lian Xi''s tender hand eagerly, "Girl, you and my Lil Yao are married?"

    "Y-yes, yes we are?" Lian Xi said shyly, her head bowed.

    "Yes, yes, that''s wonderful," The woman in in clothes sobbed again with joy. "Our family, atst, is bustling with life!"

    Although tears streamed more than ever, this was indeed her happiest day.

    "Quick, go tell your father the good news!"

    She grabbed a young man by the hand, and they stumbled into a dimly lit room. On a desk in the roomy a tomb tablet inscribed with, "The tomb of Rank 9 Arbiter Lu Bufan."

    This was the father of the Lu brothers.

    From the diary entries, ever since Lu Yao could remember, his father had been absent.

    In his diary, there was a line, "Everyone says Arbiter Lu Bufan was a hero, who gave his life for the Celestial Court, but I don''t see it that way! A man who can''t protect his own family is no hero, but a bear!"

    Yun Xiao knew that for several generations this family had served as Arbiters, yet... it seemed they rarely met a good end.

    Once inside, the woman in in clothes ced three sticks of incense before the tomb tablet, but it took a long while before she could speak.

    Her throat worked for a moment, and then she finally said, "Old Lu, both your sons are about to settle down and start their families. I have fulfilled yourst wish atst! I hope I haven''t disappointed you."

    With that, she seemed to cast off a great burden, as if a mountain had crumbled from her shoulders.

    She appeared to float on clouds, finally letting a smile spread across her face, her eyes sparkling. "Both sons, settled and established..."

    Yun Xiao stared at the simple, dim tomb tablet, lost for words.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the gates of the Lu family estate, a young man in tinum-colored Arbiter armor returned home. He was tall and sunlit, with a warm smile and an air of celestial grace, truly a figure of distinction.

    "Greetings, Commander Lu!" Several armored guards greeted him with obsequious smiles, quickly bowing.

    "What Commander? I''m not even Rank 8 yet; stop your nonsense," the young man, Lu Changfeng, said calmly.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "My lord, it''s only a matter of time!" An older guard chuckled sheepishly.

    Clearly, he knew that although Lu Changfeng verbally dismissed the title, he secretly relished being called <emmander</em>.

    The difference between Rank 8 and Rank 9 might seem slight, but reaching Rank 8 meant no longer being a mere foot soldier, no need to run about aimlessly.

    And in a ce like Sky Soaring City, a Commander of the Arbiters was already a figure of considerable stature.

    "Keep it low-key." Lu Changfeng gave them a sharp look and walked into the Lu family estate.

    "My lord, my lord!" The older guard hurried up, all smiles, "Do you remember Lu Yao?"

    Lu Changfeng paused, then replied coolly, "I mingle with the upper crust; why would I remember such riffraff?"

    "Oh," The guard chuckled awkwardly, "No matter, I just found it funny. The guy disappears for ten years andes back looking younger, his skin soft like he''s selling himself. Had I not stopped them, the boys would''ve asked him his price."

    At first, Lu Changfeng was somewhat annoyed, but at the guard''s words, his brow furrowed, and he asked in a low voice, "What did you just say? Lu Yao is back?"

    "Yes, he returned this morning, even brought a girl wearing a mask. Nice figure on her, she moves with quite the energy," the guard remarked with a click of his tongue.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Lu Changfeng suddenly grabbed his throat, his teeth clenched, "Are you certain it''s really Lu Yao?"

    The guard was stunned!

    He was puzzled; the young master had just dered he didn''t recognizemoners, so why the sudden agitation?

    Feeling intimidated, he hurriedly said, "It''s true, sir. Blind Old Lady Yu cried tears of joy, happy for half the day. Many people saw him, it''s definitely Lu Yao, that little pest."

    He mentioned it because, ten years ago, they were rivals. In terms of power, Lu Yao was nowhere close to Lu Changfeng, but their talents were oftenpared. He knew well that Lu Changfeng despised this little pest!

    "Don''t worry, my lord, he''spletely ruined now. I reckon he''s not even a Yang Immortal anymore, his cultivation crippled! Compared to you now, it''s like one is in the heavens and the other in the dirt!" the guard added quickly.

    "That''s enough." Lu Changfeng gave him a cold look and disappeared down the corridor.

    "Why does the young master care so much about a ruined man?" the guard mused, lost in thought.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a grand and dignified courtyard, a woman in a phoenix robe yed the zither within akeside pavilion. Her form was slender and curvaceous, her gestures graceful, an air of ethereal beauty surrounding her.

    "Father!" Lu Changfeng burst in, his expression dark. He nced around before addressing the woman at the zither. "Mother, where is father?"

    "He''s gone to the governor''s office for a meeting."

    The woman in the phoenix robe nced at Lu Changfeng with a hint of exasperation. "How many times has your father taught you? When you''re in the arena of fame and fortune, you must control your temper and hide your thoughts, show no emotion. With your behavior, how can you be promoted to Rank 8?"

    "Enough of your nagging!" Lu Changfeng gritted his teeth, then sat down beside her, asking, "Mother, have you heard? Lu Yao is back!"

    "Yes, I heard." The phoenix-robed woman pursed her lips, her fingers dancing lightly over the strings of the zither. "Isn''t that nice? Old Lady Yu has been crying for ten years; she''s nearly brought doom to the Lu family estate with her tears."

    "It''s not nice at all! This Lu Yao is surely an impostor, which means someone''s out to get me!" Lu Changfeng said coldly.

    "What does he have to do with you?" the woman asked, startled.

    "Uh." Realizing his slip, Lu Changfeng waved his hand dismissively. "Never mind, don''t worry about it. Keep ying your music. I''ll go find father."

    "Stop right there!" The woman''s brows furrowed. "Let me guess, you tampered with the Arbiter''s exam ten years ago?"

    Lu Changfeng rolled his eyes. "I knew I couldn''t keep it from you! Fine, I''ll tell the truth. During the exam, father had a word with Commander Yuan. When I reached the finish line, I was short on Arbiter Tokens. Commander Yuan stepped down from his supervisory seat and took care of Lu Yao, burned him to ashes... That kid was on a rampage that day, he''d snatched over eighty Arbiter Tokens! If I hadn''t taken his, he would have been first ce that day!"

    Thedy in the phoenix robe raised her eyebrows and red. "You kept this from me?"

    Lu Changfeng shrugged. "I considered your distant kinship with Lu Yao''s mother. Thought it best to keep it simple. After all, it was a trivial matter, and it''s long past."

    "How many know about this?" she demanded.

    "Just father, Commander Yuan, and me... and now you," Lu Changfeng said, chuckling. "Though we made Lu Yao disappear, I saw him burn to ashes myself. Come back to life? The fellow even tried to fight me; I cut his throat with one strike of my sword, and he died on the spot, eyes wide open."

    Hearing this, the phoenix-robed woman bowed her head in silence.

    "Mother, you''re not nning to champion their cause, are you?" Lu Changfeng asked casually.

    "What nonsense are you spouting?" She shot him a look. "A blind rtive better off dead than alive¡ªwho cares about her?"

    "Good, then I''ll expose this impostor right away, get rid of him once and for all! I''m being assessed for the prospective Commander position; I can''t let this fool ruin it," Lu Changfeng said coldly.

    "You can''t expose him!" she said sternly.

    "Why not?" Lu Changfeng raised an eyebrow.

    "Everyone thinks he''s disappeared. To insist Lu Yao is dead would be too obvious," she said exasperatedly.

    "What should I do, then?" Lu Changfeng asked, impatient.

    The woman thought for a moment, then asked seriously, "I heard it was Liu Mumu who brought him back to the Lu family estate... Could Liu Mumu know about you killing Lu Yao?"

    "How could she? Unless Old Yuan has a death wish!" Lu Changfeng snapped.

    "Something''s off... None of those who know would have a reason to target you." She shook her head.

    "Indeed! But here¡¯s the thing. Lu Yao is an Arbiter¡¯s kin, protected by the celestialws. If this gets out, not only will I forget about bing a Commander, I might not escape unpunished. So, impostor or not, he must die!" Lu Changfeng clenched his teeth.

    "Without finding the true instigator, your adversary could exploit this weakness. If one impostor has emerged, countless others could follow. Merely killing him won¡¯t solve this."

    With that, the woman in the phoenix robe stood up, her long dress touching the floor.

    She looked ahead, resolved. "Come, let¡¯s meet this impostor, hear what those behind him demand."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 511: The Shroud of Night!

    Chapter 511: The Shroud of Night!

    The Great Dao Celestial Realm knew the cloak of night. It was said that to conserve the Celestial Sourcecore, the realm was perpetually bisected by a dome of darkness, designed to economize its celestial energy. This infinite, hemispherical formation hovered over the Celestial Sourcecore, curbing its overflow. And so, with each descent of night, the power within the domain noticeably waned.

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, the night was not a time for cultivation. Immortals practiced by day and roamed under the shadow of this dark veil by night. But this dark canopy was not a constant presence!

    It swept across the realm like a vast hemispherical drapery, pivoting from east to west over the Great Dao Celestial Realm, with the north-south axis as its spindle. A full rotation marked the passing of a day.

    Folk often remarked that the realm by day and by night wore vastly different faces. By light, it zed with brilliance, mes roared, and celestial mists wove around joyous dances of the Celestial Court. Smiles lit the faces of the Immortals.

    By night, it was pitch ck, the celestial fires stained with darkness, brimming with brutality and malevolence. Specters roamed, and folk huddled within their home''s protective formations, fearing to tread outside.

    Where the dark canopy passed, blood often followed. However, Yun Xiao, newly arrived, was yet to grasp theseplexities. When he first witnessed the descent of the dark canopy, all he felt was awe and grandeur.

    It did not sweep from above but rather enveloped from beneath, as if the very ground of Sky Soaring City was swallowed by darkness, plunging the world momentarily into night.

    The overflow of the Celestial Sourcecore was severed! Fortunately, it wasn¡¯t long before lights twinkled in Sky Soaring City, restoring warmth to this celestial city within the Celestial Court.

    ¡°Lian Xi, eat, eat.¡± In the night, Lu Yao¡¯s mother prepared a feast.The three gathered around a humble table, at its center a wild fire with a delightful celestial pig roasting above it, sizzling and dripping with fat, tempting even the most disciplined.

    Beside it were a few dishes steeped in celestial essence.

    ¡°Even though Arbiter Lu¡¯s family holds no high status in Sky Soaring City, this quality of life is beyond what the mortal realm can offer,¡± Yun Xiao mused.

    Such a simple meal could extend the lives of mortals. But this was a difference of worlds, understandable through the hierarchy of the celestialdder.

    ¡°Delicious¡­¡± Lian Xi''s bowl was brimming with meat, her lips glossy with grease under the glow of the wild fire, her cheeks shimmering, endearingly radiant.

    When they ughtered the little celestial pig, Lian Xi was nearly moved to tears, her heart aching so much that she almost cried. Yet now, she reveled in her meal with unbridled joy.

    ¡°You aren¡¯t exactly a saint, are you?¡± Yun Xiao teased.

    ¡°I¡¯m human, and I only care about human survival. Who cares if it¡¯s a pig?¡± Lian Xi retorted with a huff.

    Hearing this exchange, the woman in in clothes, sensing the warmth between them, couldn¡¯t help but beam with happiness, hurrying to serve more dishes to Lian Xi. Despite her blindness, her movements were swift and sure.

    Earlier that day, other members of the Lu household had visited. They affectionately called Lu Yao¡¯s mother Miss Yu, who was well-liked within the household, not least because of her son, Arbiter Lu.

    Since Yun Xiao''s arrival, he had often heard, ¡°Child, don¡¯t cause trouble when you return. Work hard and try for the Arbiter exam. You still have a chance!¡±

    ¡°Your father, Lu Bufan, was a hero who dedicated his life to his career. You mustn''t disgrace him.¡±

    At these words, Miss Yu would quickly interject, ¡°No more exams, no more. What matters most is that my Lil Yao is happy!¡±

    After a busy day, Yun Xiao had fully stepped into Lu Yao''s shoes. No one suspected him of being a stowaway anymore! He nned, after this dinner, to start leveraging the resources of the Great Dao Celestial Realm to rapidly enhance his skills.

    Just as they were eating, a voice outside bellowed, ¡°The Madame and Young Master have arrived!¡±

    Hearing this, Miss Yu''s body trembled slightly. She quickly put down her chopsticks and called out to Yun Xiao and Lian Xi, ¡°Quick, quick, let''s go greet them.¡±

    Lian Xi and Yun Xiao exchanged a nce, with the former quickly putting on the white tiger mask.

    As soon as Miss Yu finished speaking, a woman of regal bearing, d in a fox fur Immortal robe, stepped in. Beside her walked a young man in tinum armor, his features noble and smile bright.

    Several maids trailed behind them, their beauty and grace ethereal, as if descended from the heavens.

    ¡°Miss Yu''s family greets the Madame and Young Master,¡± the inly dressed woman hastily pulled Yun Xiao and Lian Xi, preparing to kneel.

    ¡°Cousin, please don¡¯t,¡± the elegant woman stepped forward, her movements seemingly slow but reaching Miss Yu in an instant. She gently lifted Miss Yu with a tender smile, ¡°Today is a day of joy for your family reunion. Let''s dispense with these formalities.¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes,¡± Miss Yu quickly nodded, then tugged at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao then said, ¡°Lu Yao greets the Madame and Young Master.¡±

    The woman and Lu Changfeng had already been observing Yun Xiao from the corners of their eyes.

    ¡°Lil Yao, after ten years, you still look distinguished,¡± the woman said softly with a gentle smile.

    Yun Xiao shook his head. ¡°Appearances are superficial, not worthy of mention. These ten years without any achievement in the celestial path, I truly have no face to meet with the Lu Immortal Manor¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay!¡± The woman patted his shoulder lightly/ ¡°Your courage to return shows your desire to start anew. We all believe in you, right, Changfeng?¡±

    Lu Changfeng grinned. ¡°Yes, yes, if you have any questions about cultivation in the future,e find your brother anytime.¡±

    "Thank you, Young Master," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Just call me Brother Changfeng," Lu Changfeng said heartily.

    "Yes, Brother Changfeng," Yun Xiao replied with another nod.

    "By the way, your brother Changfeng is now an Arbiter too, making his own name at the Skyruler Immortal Manor. If you want to apply for the Arbiter position in the future, I can help you," the woman added.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Lu Changfeng nodded thoughtfully. "Lil Yao has a pure heart and detests evil. He''s got the right stuff to be an Arbiter... Don''t be discouraged, there are plenty of opportunities."

    "Really?" Yun Xiao asked, his eyes alight with excitement.

    "Of course, haha..." Lu Changfengughed.

    "Yes, yes." Miss Yu, overhearing this, also breathed a sigh of relief and nodded repeatedly.

    Just then, the woman pulled out a jade box and spoke earnestly to Yun Xiao, "My child, you''ve probably endured much hardship these ten years, breaking your mother''s heart. As your aunt, let me give you a little something. This peach from the Celestial Peach Empire, grown on the Kunlun Mountain of the Queen Dowager, was meant for your little cousin, but now I give it to you."

    "No, no," Miss Yu hurriedly interjected. "That''s too precious, it really shouldn''t be... Lil Yao, you can''t ept..."

    "Hmm?" The woman''s face tightened, her voice stern, "Cousin, when I decide to give something, you can''t refuse it."

    "I''ll ept it, then!"

    Before Miss Yu could protest again, Yun Xiao quickly grabbed the jade box.

    This surprised both the woman and Lu Changfeng.

    "This... this..." Miss Yu could only bow in thanks, her heart fluttering with nerves. The gift was too significant, too overwhelming.

    After presenting the gift, the woman nced around the room and smiled. "With that, I won¡¯t disturb your family reunion any longer."

    "Please stay a while longer, Madame."

    "No need, no need. Changfeng has matters to attend to, what with the Arbiter exams tomorrow. He''s very busy," the woman said, looking at her son with pride.

    "Well then, we¡¯ll see the Madame and Young Master out," Miss Yu said, bowing deeply.

    The woman smiled and turned to leave. At the doorway, she paused and looked back at Lian Xi, inquiring, "Miss, why hide your true face?"

    Following her gaze, one could see oil stains on Lian Xi¡¯s chin and neck, indicating the mask was only recently put on.

    "Madame, she''s a bit ugly, a bit self-conscious," Yun Xiao exined.

    "That won''t do, not at all." The woman shook her head. "Miss, being married into the Lu family, you need to have confidence."

    She didn¡¯t dwell on the matter and walked on.

    A few dozen stepster, the Madam flicked her wrist, and her maids quickly vanished into the darkness. Stopping, she turned to her son and said, "We have a conclusion."

    "Oh?" Lu Changfeng raised an eyebrow.

    "This fellow, from start to finish, bore you no ill will. He knows nothing of Lu Yao''s affairs; he''s just a freeloader," the woman said, somewhat exasperated.

    "The nerve of him," Lu Changfeng remarked with a coldugh.

    "His existence is actually a boon for you. Just appease him with a peach, and he¡¯ll be utterly loyal to you. From now on, you¡¯re essentially untainted," the woman paused, "These years, Lu An has been probing into his brother¡¯s case. If he ever finds a clue, it would be troublesome, given their family''s status as martyrs with public sympathy."

    "Alright, got it," Lu Changfeng muttered.

    "You¡¯re thinking, since this impostor doesn''t know the truth, why not eliminate him and end it all, right?" The woman red.

    "Uh¡­" Lu Changfeng was taken aback.

    "Have you ever been able to hide your thoughts from me as you grew up?" the woman said helplessly.

    "Don''t worry, I won''t kill him!" Lu Changfeng smirked and then slinked away.

    "That boy, always too hasty, can''t keep calm in the face of anything," the woman sighed, shaking her head.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    It was a dinner that would be etched into Yun Xiao¡¯s memory. It rivaled the night he and the disciples at the Sword Pavilion shared a spicy hotpot. The hotpot was fiery and tingling, zing red like blood.

    Now, the grease seeping from this roasted suckling pig was like the warmth of the Immortal path.

    Together, they shaped Yun Xiao''s understanding of cultivation.

    After dinner, Yun Xiao and Lian Xi sat on the rooftop of the courtyard, watching the world under the dark canopy twinkling with lights.

    "Lu Yao must have been killed by Lu Changfeng," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "How do you know?" Lian Xi was startled.

    "I understand people better than you do," Yun Xiao stated simply.

    "Uh..." Lian Xi turned, looking at Miss Yu bustling in the yard, always with a smile on her face, and said somberly, "She''s had it tough, losing both her children. Especially Lu Yao, who died ten years ago..."

    "Heh." Yun Xiao took out the jade box, opening it to reveal a peach enveloped in celestial mist.

 Chapter 512: Cute Little Piglet

    Chapter 512: Cute Little Piglet

    "The gift isn''t half bad," Yun Xiao dered.

    "How delicious, let me have a bite," Lian Xi said as she moved closer, baring her tiny tiger teeth.

    "In your dreams." Yun Xiao chuckled, pinching her cheek before leaping from the rooftop to retreat to his room.

    "The scoundrel! He calls me ugly, now he won''t share!" Lian Xi clenched her fists, her teeth itching with irritation.

    "What are you waiting for then? It''s time for revenge!" the little white tiger piped up from her embrace, its voice thick with fury.

    "How should I exact revenge?" Lian Xi bit her lip.

    "Have the third time now! With the night dark and the wind high, it¡¯s the perfect moment for fiery passions to ignite," the little white tiger heatedly reminded her. "Lian Xi, now that we''re in the Celestial Court, just be a True Immortal. With me to guard you, you¡¯ll ascend in the blink of an eye and dominate the Celestial Court! He is the best stepping stone for your ascension to true immortality, so stop being meek and stand tall. Women can hold up half the sky¡ªno, you should be holding up the entire sky!"

    "This, this..." Lian Xi''s face flushed with embarrassment.

    "To hell with it, I''m sick of your soft, cute act. Can''t you toughen up and trample men beneath your feet? Damn it, you''re the savior!" the little white tiger red, then continued, "What''s Yun Xiao, after all? How dare he juggle two, making his senior sister pregnant, then fooling around with you! For such a scoundrel, we must show no mercy, crush him utterly!""..." Lian Xi just stared.

    "Act now, or you¡¯ll grow old and spoiled¡­!" the little white tiger urged desperately.

    "Get lost!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the house, a celestial peach flowed directly into Yun Xiao''s Dantian, transforming into a nourishing spring. His celestial power surged, breaking through two stages in a short time to the Establishment Yin Immortal Realm.

    "One step away from bing a Yang Immortal," Yun Xiao murmured. Then, he took a moment to gauge the strength he possessed now. "Maybe I can go head to head with a True Immortal in battle now?"

    By all ounts, his true self could now rival that of Moon Fairy or the War Princess. His body double and Blood Base were locked in ce, but for Yun Xiao, the path before him was clear and broad.

    "Here in the Celestial Court, once I set foot on the path, ascending to the realm of true immortality will be easy." Yun Xiao wasn''t talking about thebat power of a True Immortal, which he already possessed, but his cultivation rising to that level as well.

    He took a deep breath, steadying his cultivation, and rose to his feet. Outside the window, Lian Xi sat in the courtyard, her back to him, chin in hand and legs swinging, lost in thought.

    "Now that things have settled, it''s the perfect time for the third attempt," Blue Star chimed in with a mischievous snicker.

    "I''m not nning a third time," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Do you pity her?" Blue Star asked, shocked.

    "No," Yun Xiao considered for a moment. "In the Celestial Court, we both can progress swiftly. There¡¯s no need to waste this moment. Let''s wait until she''s stronger, when she truly needs it."

    "You¡¯re fattening the pig before the ughter," Blue Star said.

    "A cute little immortal pig." Yun Xiao chuckled.

    Blue Star rolled his eyes,ughing. "Cut it out, you have a soft heart under that ded tongue. I know you pity her. Perhaps your love for her has even surpassed that for Chen Xi."

    "Enough." Yun Xiao''s smile froze.

    "Did I hit the mark?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "I killed Chen Xi. I owe her that debt, and I must repay it."

    "When will you do so?"

    After a pause, Yun Xiao said, "Tomorrow, after the Arbiter examination, I''ll get Lian Xi drunk and then proceed."

    "What if she dies and Chen Xi lives?" Blue Star teased.

    Yun Xiao clenched his fists, remembering the girl in the white dress who died in his arms in the pce, his sword piercing her heart. He couldn¡¯t forget the look in her eyes at that moment. All this time, he had been struggling.

    Finally, he took a deep breath and with all his strength vowed, "I must settle this matter. If not now, I may never be able to."

    "Indeed," Red Moon interjected with a sly tone. "After all, it¡¯s best to ughter the pig while it''s still young."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the dimly lit chamber, Lu Changfeng lounged with his legs crossed upon a high chair.

    A knock sounded, followed by a voice, "Young Master, Yan Song has arrived."

    "Enter," Lu Changfeng replied coolly.

    The hidden door creaked open, and an elderly armored guard bowed his way in. It was the gatekeeper himself.

    "Greetings, Young Master." The elder guard knelt.

    "Rise, let''s talk," Lu Changfeng said, raising an eyebrow.

    "Yes!" Yan Song stood up respectfully.

    "How long have you been stuck in the Yang Immortal Realm, unable to be a True Immortal?" Lu Changfeng asked ndly.

    "For 200 years!" Yan Song gave a sheepish smile, helplessly saying, "There''s no helping it, my talents are limited. I''ve never been able to ovee the bottleneck of projecting my Genesis Spirit, and it seems in this life it will remain so."

    "Are you content then, knowing your descendants will forever be mocked as the offspring of a gatekeeper?" Lu Changfeng''s gaze was piercing.

    "Uh..." Yan Song''s expression tightened, and he lowered his head. "Young Master, pleasemand me."

    "Rx, it''s nothing serious," Lu Changfeng said with a loudugh, producing a jade box and tossing it to Yan Song. "A gift for you, open it and see."

    Yan Song''s hands trembled as he opened the jade box to reveal a crystal-clear peach within.

    "A celestial peach!" Yan Song quickly knelt again, flustered, "Young Master, I, I..."

    "This peaches from the Queen Dowager''s Kunlun Mountain. Many in Sky Soaring City hope all their lives to taste such a fruit," Lu Changfeng pointed at Yan Song, smiling. "But today, Yan Song, you shall eat it. Not only will you taste this treasure, but it will surely help you achieve your desires and be a True Immortal!"

    "Master!" Yan Song''s heart raced with shock and awe. He understood the immense value of the gift before him. It was the very thing he had dreamed of obtaining! But why?

    After a moment of internal struggle, he suddenly bowed deeply to Lu Changfeng, his voice filled with fervor, "From this day forward, I will carry out anymand from you, Master, without hesitation!"

    "That''s a bit dramatic; we are merely friends." Lu Changfeng raised an eyebrow, a smile ying on his lips. "It''s normal to lend a hand to a friend in crucial times, isn''t it?"

    "Indeed, indeed." Yan Song, always quick on the uptake, kept his smile as he softly added, "Then, might there be some small task you need me to handle?"

    "Let me think," Lu Changfeng mused, then suddenly grinned, "Actually, there is a little matter."

    "Yourmand, please!"

    Lu Changfeng pointed at the celestial peach, "Eat this peach now, achieve your true Immortality, and then... go kill someone for me, will you?"

    "Lu Yao? From Arbiter Lu''s family?" Yan Song looked up to ask.

    "Ha!" Lu Changfeng couldn''t help butugh softly. "You truly understand me."

    Yan Song took a deep breath, pondered for a moment, and then asked, "Do you wish for me to carry out this deed openly, with indisputable evidence?"

    "Exactly!" Lu Changfeng looked at him intently. "Just do it. After it''s done, I''ll arrange for you toy low. Additionally, I''ll ensure your family is well taken care of and promise them a bright future."

    "Agreed!" Yan Song''s eyes zed with determination as he gazed at Lu Changfeng. He knelt and bowed deeply, proiming, "For the Young Master, I would face death without hesitation!"

    "Haha." Lu Changfengughed and stood, pping Yan Song on the shoulder, "Alright, it''s all yours. Tomorrow''s the Arbiter examination, and I have a slew of brothers, sisters, and cousins to tutor. I hope to hear good news from you at dawn."

    "Just a brat selling nonsense, I''ll snuff him out as easily as ughtering a chicken!" Yan Song boasted with a chuckle.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the dead of night, Yun Xiao continued to consume Heavenly Dao Sariras, mustering his energy to convert all his celestial power to a higher level, entering the Early Yang Immortal Realm!

    "After this breakthrough, dealing with a low-level True Immortal like Tao Shuo should pose no problem." Yun Xiao took a deep breath.

    He nced at Lian Xi, who was nestled against him, sleeping sweetly. Her small hands clutched his arms tightly, as if fearing he would escape.

    Such an endearing girl often stirred the deepest sympathies.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Yun Xiao chose to close his eyes, not dwelling on it.

    Suddenly, a figure appeared abruptly before him.

    It was an elderly armored guard!

    "Haha, Lu..." The guard was a Sword Cultivator, hisugh cold as he brandished his sword.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t look up; his Flying Sword shot forth from in front, instantly piercing the back of the guard¡¯s head.

    <em>PUFF! </em>His face burst open. Then with a light thud, the man fell dead.

    "Who¡¯s there?" Lian Xi, half-awake, rubbed her eyes and asked.

    Yun Xiao stood, kicked the body around to face up, and leaned closer to inspect it, saying, "A True Immortal, don¡¯t know him."

    After speaking, he thrust the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into the man¡¯s body, incinerating itpletely.

    Once done, Yun Xiao nced outside at the breaking dawn and cheerfully remarked, "Well, day¡¯s breaking. I need to go to the Skyruler Immortal Manor to find Liu Mumu."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 513: Fierce Tiger Hidden Away in a Golden House!

    Chapter 513: Fierce Tiger Hidden Away in a Golden House!

    Today was the day of the Arbiter examination.

    "Shall I go too?" Lian Xi tilted her head and asked.

    "There''ll be a crowd there, and I bet everyone will want to lift your mask and see the face under it," Yun Xiao pondered before replying, "Let''s wait until I find a better way to hide you before we attend such events."

    "Does this mean you are hiding your treasure in a golden house?" Lian Xi pouted.

    "Not a treasure, but a fierce tiger," Yun Xiao chuckled. He knew it pained Lian Xi to live like a criminal in hiding. But there was no helping it.

    As neers and stowaways, especially with the critical affairs of that seventh princess, they had to y it safe.

    "I''ll be off then," Yun Xiao stood at the doorway, gazing back at the charming and naive girl inside.

    "Go on, then." Lian Xi grinned, her little tiger teeth showing, "Your little wife will be waiting for the good news at home."

    "Alright." Yun Xiao thought about his ns for the evening, clutching the transcending cmity crystal of Chen Xi in his hand, feeling a tug in his heart.He gave Lian Xi onest tender look before turning and stepping out the door.

    In the courtyard, Miss Yu was feeding a tiny celestial pig. Hearing Yun Xiao''s footsteps, she called out, "Lil Yao, where are you off to?"

    "Off to the Arbiter examination!" Yun Xiao grinned.

    Miss Yu paused, then chuckled, shaking her head. "Such a joker."

    "It''s true. Wait till the results are posted this afternoon, and I''ll take you to bask in the glory," Yun Xiao insisted.

    "Yes, yes," Miss Yu smiled wryly, waving her hand, "Go on then, just remember toe back."

    Clearly, she didn''t believe a word.

    "Off I go then." Yun Xiao smiled and walked through the garden gate, and as he was about to leave, he heard Miss Yuin, "That big brother of yours, always running off, can never be found when needed, doesn''t evene back for a brothers'' reunion."

    Yun Xiao didn''t reply but quickened his pace and stepped out of Arbiter Lu''s home.

    Many acquaintances inside greeted him warmly as he passed.

    Despite his keen ears catching the whispers behind closed doors, Yun Xiao was, oddly enough, satisfied.

    "They say that boy is too delicate, fleeing from a single setback for a decade. Truly worthless."

    "Wasting such good looks."

    "I gotta say, the Madame should set him up with those high-ranking Immortals in Sky Soaring City, make him a kept man; he¡¯d live a life of ease."

    "What nonsense! His family are martyrs, generation after generation as Arbiters. Would Miss Yu ever agree to that?"

    "An Arbiter? The boy¡¯s not cut out for it. He''s taking on a task without the means, only finding trouble for himself."

    The more they gossiped, the more solidified his identity as Lu Yao became.

    "Lu Changfeng really is something. My appearance could clear his reputation, yet he still insists on killing me." Yun Xiao stepped out of manor, looking back at the somber estate, his expression icy. "But, he''s right to worry. Now that I''ve assumed the role of Lu Yao, whether you try to kill me or not, sooner orter, I''ll have to kill you."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Before long, Yun Xiao arrived at the Skyruler Immortal Manor in Sky Soaring City.

    Before him stood a row of solemn, majestic court buildings, all in shades of white gold, exuding a formidable, righteous air, a grandeur ten times greater than that of Arbiter Lu''s manor.

    Sky Soaring City, part of the Celestial Court''s Thunder Department, housed thew enforcement and investigative agency responsible for local and surrounding mortal realms. It also took on distant assignments.

    It was said that Lu Yao¡¯s father, Lu Bufan, had been dispatched to the frontier, where he fell heroically in a sh with demon Immortals.

    "I am Lu Yao, seeking my master, Commander Liu Mumu," Yun Xiao announced to a drum-like array at the gate.

    This was the ce for the public to seek justice, where striking the Skyruler Drum would summon an Arbiter to assist.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As Yun Xiao''s voice faded, the bronze gates engraved with white gold mythical beasts thunderously swung open.

    The white gold beast was the emblem of the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Inside, after politely asking for directions several times, Yun Xiao finally reached the dwelling of Liu Mumu.

    As amanding Arbiter and a Rank 8 Heavenly Officer, she resided in a pce named the Willow Leaf Residence.

    "Master," Yun Xiao called softly at the doorway.

    "Enter," Liu Mumu¡¯s voice rang out from inside.

    Pushing the door open, Yun Xiao saw a tall woman in tinum celestial armor, hovering at the center of the courtyard in meditation. A vast Celestial Sourcecore flowed into her, turning her into a small zing sun, making the entire Willow Leaf Residence seem like a furnace.

    "A Rank 8 Heavenly Officer, quite formidable." Byparison, Yun Xiao knew those 1,000 Heavenly Officers who invaded the Nine Hells and that diminutive,rge-headed old Immortal at the Ascension Pool were undoubtedly stronger.

    Liu Mumu exhaled a murky, greenish-yellow me andnded gracefully. Her hair was tied back, her nose sharp, her presencemanding. Though a woman, she radiated a stern, fiery aura,manding respect without anger. She was the very image of a female Arbiter that Yun Xiao had envisioned.

    "How wasst night?" Liu Mumu asked.

    "My mother made a feast, and we talked for a long time," Yun Xiao paused, adding, "She fell asleep smiling."

    "Good, I heard about it," Liu Mumu nodded, ncing at Yun Xiao before continuing, "You did well."

    "As I should," Yun Xiao responded.

    "I''ll be overseeing the examination shortly. Wait here for me. When I return, I''ll guide you on your cultivation path. In the Skyruler Immortal Manor, you''ll have ess to all resources needed for an Arbiter-in-training on my word," Liu Mumu said, beginning to gather her things to leave.

    "Understood." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Oh," Liu Mumu stopped as she walked past him, her eyes briefly flickering as she extended her hand, "The diary, give it to me."

    Yun Xiao realized then why she had so quickly discerned he wasn''t truly Lu Yao. She knew about the diary''s existence. As Lu Yao''s master, she had clearly read it.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao produced the drawing from his chest, saying, "The Celestial Court in the picture looks magnificent."

    "From afar, it does look magnificent," Liu Mumu''s hands trembled slightly as she carefully took the diary, her eyes dimming. She didn''t say more and walked past Yun Xiao, about to leave.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao called out, looking at her retreating figure, "Aren''t you going to ask me about what happened to him?"

    Liu Mumu stopped, took a sharp breath, her eyes reddening, and said, "That''s no longer your concern. Don''t bring it up again."

    "Alright!" From her response, Yun Xiao understood that whatever had happened during those few days Arbiter Lu returned to the Celestial Court, she probably knew and had anticipated it.

    But it was a painful subject, one she did not wish to discuss, and Yun Xiao could not press further. Still, Yun Xiao called out, "Master!"

    "What is it?" Liu Mumu turned, not denying the title in private.

    "I''vee today to take the Arbiter''s examination directly, to honor Arbiter Lu''s family," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "Directly?" Liu Mumu was taken aback.

    "I was chosen by Lu An, I''m not ordinary," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Show me," Liu Mumumanded.

    Yun Xiao raised his hand, and suddenly an azure Flying Sword, pulsing with nearly 10,000,000yers of Sword Aura, thrust toward Liu Mumu''s face.

    <em>KLANG! </em>Liu Mumu caught the azure Flying Sword between her fingers. The sword trembled violently in her grasp, like a dying beast.

    She staggered back three steps after seizing it. First shocked by the power of the Flying Sword, her eyes then flickered. "Eleven Sword Rings?"

    This forced her to reevaluate Yun Xiao with a new level of respect.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao nodded, "Am I eligible to take the Arbiter examination?"

    Liu Mumu released the Flying Sword, her gaze settling on his forehead as she said, "Lil Yao was an Inscription Cultivator."

    "So am I." Yun Xiao extended his hand, and the Prison Warden Sigil emerged from his brow, transforming into a nine-headed dragon, its nearly 10,000,000 Runes vividly clear.

    "It¡¯s curious, his Life Sigil was also a violet dragon, just not as..." Liu Mumu struggled to find the right word as she stared at the Life Sigil. She then looked back at Yun Xiao, her expression growing serious, and whispered, "Remove the Sword Rings, thene with me."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Where to?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "To honor our ancestors," she replied.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Skyruler Immortal Manor, the Arbiter Hall stood as the annual venue for the Arbiter''s examination.

    An Arbiter''s role was fraught with danger: some ascended, others were injured or killed, and some retired, making the infusion of new blood crucial.

    Officers of the Great Dao Celestial Realm would send their progeny here for seasoning¡ªa triple benefit of gaining grassroots experience, enhancing promotion credentials, andworking.

    There were two kinds of Arbiters. The first weremoners, for whom the role was a perilous necessity. Lu An was such. The second were progeny of high-ranking officers, for whom the role was a means to social climbing and advancement. Lu Changfeng belonged to this category.

    Though their ranks were the same, their origins could ce them worlds apart in status.

    The Arbiter Hall was the first real test for all aspiring Arbiters.

    Beyond ity the ck Demon Cavern, the true trial ground, swirling with ck smoke, prowled by demons, and riddled with spatial distortions leading to other perilous ces.

    It was here, a decade ago, that Lu Yao had vanished.

    Early this morning, the hall had already drawn a crowd, more parents than youths.

    They gathered in the front hall, chatting merrily. Among them was a burly Arbitermander with sparse hair and a scar across his forehead, a stern figure. This was Commander Yuan Gang.

    Beside him stood a handsome young man, even more popr than Yuan. Many wereplimenting this youth. He was Lu Changfeng.

    Though still a Rank 9 Arbiter, Lu Changfeng also served as Yuan Gang''s deputy. Given his background, ascending to fullmander was only a matter of time, and certainly, Rank 8 was not his ceiling.

    At the height of the hubbub, someone whispered to Lu Changfeng and Yuan Gang, "The Madame has arrived with Xiaolu, Shaoyang, and the others."

    "Oh?" Exchanging nces, Lu Changfeng and Yuan Gang excused themselves from the others and went to greet the arrivals personally from the front hall.

 Chapter 514: Who Knew He Was So Weak?

    Chapter 514: Who Knew He Was So Weak?

    "Madame!" Yuan Gang''s towering frame bent at the waist, his face creased into a warm smile as he stepped forward to greet her.

    The woman was dressed with exceptional grandeur today. Her waist was slender as a willow, her figure curvaceous, exuding a dignified air. She was apanied by six youths, among them a charming young girl who clung affectionately to the woman''s arm.

    This girl had legs as long as reeds, a pointed chin, and a face shaped like a goose egg. Her deep-set eyes shimmered, and she wore a short green dress, resembling a forest nymph.

    "Brother!" She waved at Lu Changfeng.

    Lu Changfeng shot her a nce and scolded, "Are you sick? Wearing such a short dress to the Arbiter examination today?"

    The woman sighed. "I''ve told her, but this child is as stubborn as you, disobedient."

    "I''ll wear what I please." Lu Xiaolu pouted. "I''m young and beautiful and will dress how I wish."

    "Careful, or I¡¯ll mark you zero for propriety!" Lu Changfeng retorted.

    "Psh! Scared of you? Dad¡¯s already taken care of it. I¡¯m getting full marks, better than your record even." Lu Xiaoluughed softly."Keep your voice down!" The woman quickly pinched her, rmed.

    Such things shouldn¡¯t be spoken about openly, especially here. Although it was amon enough statement, if someone with the right skills heard and spread it, the repercussions wouldn¡¯t be good.

    "I know!" Lu Xiaolu stuck out her tongue, unconcerned.

    Meanwhile, Commander Yuan Gang whispered a few details to his son, Yuan Shaoyang, before approaching the woman, lowering his voice, "What about the Lu Yao matter?"

    "I¡¯ve tested him. He¡¯s a nobody," the woman responded.

    "Changfeng told me," Yuan Gang frowned slightly, his voice cold, "In these times, too many are too bold, tragically unaware of their impending doom."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Let him be. A fly nibbling on leftover rice harms none," the woman said.

    "Indeed." Yuan Gang nodded.

    Hearing this, Lu Changfeng shrugged and muttered to himself with a smirk. "Lu Yao¡¯s leftover rice might just choke someone¡­ probably on his way to the bridge of regret by now."

    Just then, two figures approached from the direction of the Guard Pavilion. A tall woman d in celestial armor and a divinely handsome young man stood before them.

    "Lu Xiaolu! Lu Xiaolu!" Two young girls tugged at her clothes urgently, pointing at the youth in white. "Look, he''s incredibly handsome."

    Lu Xiaolu paused for a moment and turned to look, her mouth dropping open in astonishment. "Who is that? He looks like a prince of the Celestial Court."

    "Lu Yao?" Lu Changfeng, standing nearby, widened his eyes in disbelief.

    He knew well that Yan Song had ascended to true immortality!

    "Did that old fool eat that celestial peach and decide to mock me? Can''t even butcher a chicken right?" Lu Changfeng was getting angry. Frustrated, he could onlye up with one exnation; the boy had slipped away first.

    "Commander Liu."

    Liu Mumu, also the supervisingmander of today''s examination, held a higher status, and many parents immediately came out to curry favor with a smile.

    "The examination is about to begin. So, I''d like to ask all parents to please leave the Guard Pavilion," Liu Mumumanded sternly.

    "Of course."

    Many parents left with sheepish smiles, forced to withdraw.

    As they left, they muttered among themselves, "If any top-tier noble''s offspring were examining this year, wouldn''t Liu Mumu be kneeling to wee them?"

    "This pretentious woman is the worst."

    Only the Madame remained among the elders, a testament to her standing. Once the parents had left, the hall was left with over 100 young Immortals. And indeed, these hundreds were all under 30 years old, each capable of projecting their Genesis Spirits, True Immortals by their own right.

    Most were second-generation Immortals, with profound presence and illustrious backgrounds.

    Yuan Gang gave Liu Mumu a strange look and said, "Commander Liu, we are about to review the registrations, and all parents have left. Your disciple..."

    "He''s an examinee," Liu Mumu stated tly.

    "An examinee?" The Madame, Yuan Gang, and Lu Changfeng all paused in surprise.

    Lu Changfeng pursed his lips, somewhat at a loss for words. "Without reaching the realm of true immortality, one should not..."

    Before he could finish, Liu Mumu cut him off, "You are mistaken, the rule is, without thebat power of a True Immortal, one cannot take the examination."

    "He has thebat power of a True Immortal?" Yuan Gang frowned.

    "ording to the rules, one may take a preliminary private test before applying. I have already tested him. Yuan Gang, you are today''s chief examiner, you might want to test him yourself soon," Liu Mumu suggested. Her words were sinct and powerful, full of force that carried an oppressive air.

    "Thebat power of a True immortal?" Lu Changfeng raised an eyebrow, recalling Yan Song, his expression darkening.

    "..." Yuan Gang''s face turned serious. He nced at the calm Madame, then turned to his son and said, "Shaoyang, you''re 18 years old and just ascended to the realm of true immortality at the beginning of the month. You test Lu Yao."

    "How old is he?" Yuan Shaoyang, chewing on some Immortal candy, tilted his chin up, his gaze impatient as he looked at Lu Yao.

    "Twenty seven years old," Liu Mumu said.

    "Really old. What use is there in bing an Arbiter at that age? A lifetime of running errands," Yuan Shaoyang chuckled.

    A burst ofughter erupted!

    Thinking of Lu An, the young ones couldn''t help butugh uproariously.

    "Silence!" Yuan Gang pped the back of Yuan Shaoyang''s head,manding sternly, "I asked you to act, not to speak!"

    "Yes!" Humiliated in front of everyone, Yuan Shaoyang''s temper red. He beckoned to Yun Xiao with a hooked finger, sneering, "Lu Yao, step forward!"

    Yun Xiao advanced a few steps without a word.

    The crowd parted, and the front hall cleared to form an arena.

    "You''re an Inscription Cultivator, right? You call it¡ªhow do we fight?" Yuan Shaoyang said.

    "With fists," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Fists?" Yuan Shaoyang could hardly believe his ears. He was a Martial Cultivator! Topete in physical strength against him?

    "Go!" Yuan Gang roared from behind.

    "To hell with it!" Yuan Shaoyang stared down Yun Xiao and roared, his muscles exploding with the thunderous power of a tiger and leopard, his eyes zing like golden torches, his body surging with immortal energy.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He threw a punch!

    The punch gathered a vast momentum, focused and sharp, not causing any spatial tremors or outflow of celestial power, making it seem less ferocious at a nce. Yet, the very absence of visible force often meant that the power of the punch was extremely concentrated!

    This was the Celestial Fist of the Immortal Path!

    Yuan Shaoyang, fierce as a golden ape, hurled his fist towards Yun Xiao''s face.

    In that lightning-quick moment, Yun Xiao, calm as a gentle breeze under a clear moon, reached out. His hand, like a Taiji vortex, caught Yuan Shaoyang''s fierce punch and with a rearward flick, he effortlessly redirected the devastating force.

    "Huh?" Yuan Shaoyang''s eyes widened in disbelief. His punch, having struck only air, released all its energy, causing a ripple in the space behind him. The recoil gathered in his muscles and bones, crackling loudly.

    "You are too naive for your age," Yun Xiao said. Catching Yuan Shaoyang''s punch with his right hand, he spoke as his left fist, equally focused and condensed with the spectral image of a tinum manticore, shot out explosively.

    <em>BOOM! </em>This punch, though less violent than Yuan Shaoyang''s, was faster, like lightning.

    Before another word could be spoken, Yun Xiao''s punch struck Yuan Shaoyang squarely in the chest.

    <em>CRACK! </em>The impact caved in Yuan Shaoyang¡¯s chest, his ribs shattering and piercing into his organs.

    "AGHHH!" He screamed, spitting out fragments of his innards, and was sent flying backward, crashing heavily into the ground.

    With a thud, Yuan Shaoyang hit the ground, and a spray of blood flew from his mouth, a grim testament to the severe internal injuries he had sustained.

    "Shaoyang!" Yuan Gang had not anticipated this turn of events!

    How could a mere Early Yang Immortal possess the overwhelmingbat power to crush a True Immortal?

    The punches had flowed seamlessly, one after the other¡ªhow had he managed that? And how could he possibly know the Celestial Fist?

    Cradling these doubts, Yuan Gang picked up his son, only to see that amidst his pain, the boy was utterly bewildered.

    "Commander Yuan, I truly didn''t expect he wouldn''t be able to handle it," Yun Xiao''s innocent voice echoed through the hall.

    At these words, a hush fell over the hall. The young onlookers, Lu Xiaolu included, stared at Yun Xiao, a mix of confusion and awe in their eyes.

    "Xiaolu, do you know him?" a girl beside her asked.

    "I do! Ten years ago, I was six¡ªI remember him, but he wasn¡¯t this striking back then," Lu Xiaolu replied.

    "Being handsome is useless now. He''s really made enemies today," the girl said.

    "True! Good looks are the least useful asset¡­" Lu Xiaolu nced at her brother, Lu Changfeng, sensing he might be the angriest of all.

    "Dad, I''m badly hurt, aren¡¯t I?" Yuan Shaoyang suddenly cried out.

    "Your organs are damaged; you need to rest and heal," Yuan Gang said gravely.

    "Dad!" Yuan Shaoyang clutched his father''s arm desperately, his eyes wide with urgency. "I need to be an Arbiter this year to advance my standing!"

    "Next year," Yuan Gang shook his head.

    "No!" Yuan Shaoyang was irrepressibly irate as he red daggers at Yun Xiao, shouting, "You took this chance to harm another unfairly, showing none of the virtues expected of an Arbiter. You shouldn''t be allowed to participate either!"

    "..." Yun Xiao smiled, choosing to remain silent.

    "Enough, let''s not waste time," Liu Mumu turned and seated herself behind a desk, her voice stern, "All candidates, present your family records. We will review each one."

    This was the first hurdle of the Arbiter examination. The inquiry would trace back six generations! Any criminal history would disqualify a candidate from bing an Arbiter.

    Of course, this also meant that the examination had officially begun.

    Yun Xiao stepped forward, presenting the loyal and valorous records of the Lu Family.

    As he set down the documents, Yun Xiao whispered to Liu Mumu, "Ten years ago during the exams, Lu Changfeng killed Lu Yao."

    Hearing this, Liu Mumu''s fingers twitched.

    "Surprised?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not surprised," Liu Mumu replied.

    This confirmed that she and Lu An had been aware, but without evidence.

    Without evidence, what could be done?

    From a distance behind him, Lu Changfeng whispered coldly to Yuan Gang, "No more hesitations, right? Let''s finish him off again!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 515: Half an Inch

    Chapter 515: Half an Inch

    Injuring Yuan Shaoyang was not sufficient cause for Yun Xiao to lose his eligibility on this day of examination.

    On the contrary, the Lu Family had served as Arbiters for generations. They were of noble lineage and descendants of heroes. Meeting the conditions, he even held a certain priority byw for his application.

    So, when he submitted his documents, the review was promptly approved, and he received a jade token marked with the number <em>one</em>.

    Many cast nces his way, their expressions tinged with curiosity. Ten years gone, and upon his return, he crossed the powerful. What was he thinking?

    Yun Xiao seemed to live in a world of his own, utterly indifferent to the thoughts of others. After registering, he stood aside, closing his eyes to meditate.

    About an hourter, the review of all the documents of the applicants waspleted. Those who made it here generally met the necessary qualifications. Even those with blemishes had them well concealed.

    Next, Liu Mumu organized the documents while Lu Changfeng stepped forward, positioning himself before all the young attendees, and dered, ¡°The first test is a check of your appearance and demeanor. Men, follow me; women, follow Arbiter Li.¡±

    Arbiter Li was a woman with a frosty demeanor.

    The majority were men, around sixty in total, all following Lu Changfeng behind the front hall to a sealed chamber on the left.¡°What are they checking?¡± Red Moon asked curiously.

    ¡°Who knows? Maybe it¡¯s about appearance ratings? The Celestial Court recruits Arbiters, surely they consider an Immortal''s bearing,¡± Yun Xiao replied nonchntly. He was unconcerned either way.

    Upon their entry, candles around the room suddenly lit up, brightening the enclosed space.

    ¡°Line up!" Lu Changfengmanded, his authority undisputed. Hastily, the youths aligned themselves neatly before him.

    Beside him stood two other male Arbiters, assisting him.

    Lu Changfeng held a paper and a pen in his hands, and the eyes of the applicants asionally darted nervously to this sheet. Perhaps, it was this very paper that would determine their futures.

    "Excellent. Prompt obedience is the first step to bing a distinguished Arbiter!" Lu Changfeng''s cold gaze swept over the sixty men assembled before him, eventually resting on Yun Xiao, secluded in a corner.

    His gaze quickly withdrew as he cleared his throat, announcing, "The appearance inspection begins now. Everyone follow themand¡ªremove all your garments!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao blinked, momentarily stunned. Before he could gather his thoughts, the rustling of clothes filled the air. In less than a moment, a whole row of men to his left stood bare, not a shred of cloth left on them.

    "Well then!" Yun Xiao thought, realizing why the sexes were separated.

    This was evidently part of the Arbiter examination, and it didn''t bother Yun Xiao. Some individuals, if they practiced forbidden arts, could be detected by traces on their bodies.

    An Arbiter''s role in the Celestial Court was a solemn one! At least in terms of regtion, they ensured that an Arbiter''s conduct was upright and honest.

    If one thought the Arbiter''s examination was merely about testingbat prowess or talent, that was quite naive. For a powerhouse like the Skyruler Immortal Manor, character and background were always more critical than mere capability.

    Just like at the Primordial Academy, ethical tests held significant weight in the Arbiter examination.

    This was Yun Xiao''s first time being so exposed in front of so many men, but everyone stood tall and straight, chests out, eyes forward, which made it less awkward.

    Blue Star and Red Moon were hidden amongst the clothes strewn on the ground.

    "I want to peek next door!" Red Moon said excitedly.

    "Peek your sister!" Blue Star snapped.

    "Stay still!" Lu Changfeng''smand echoed sharply as he started the inspection from the far left, his team of three examiners meticulously checking and scoring each candidate.

    Their work was indeed serious.

    Lu Changfeng was in charge of scoring, while the other two male Arbiters, front and back, scrutinized each candidate from hair to heel like magnifying sses, asionally touching, critiquing...

    "Quite small! Haha!" One Arbiterughed.

    "Respectfully, sir, if I stand tall, it¡¯s actually quite..." the embarrassed candidate began.

    "Don¡¯t believe you, stand up and show us," another challenged.

    Lu Changfeng, standing nearby, interrupted their banter, "Enough talk. We only record the ordinary length."

    With that, he waved his hand grandly and wrote "One inch!" in a nk space on his sheet.

    After the inspection, one of the Arbitersughed heartily, "Let¡¯s make a good showing, boys. I hear these documents might end up in the hands of some nobledies in Sky Soaring City. Our futures might very well depend on this!"

    Yun Xiao was thest one to be inspected, and with him, the ordeal ended.

    "Dress and prepare for the Celestial Law Exam!" Lu Changfeng said tersely, packing up the thick stack of papers. He then opened the temple doors and stepped outside.

    Outside, Yuan Gang, Liu Mumu, and several other Arbitermanders were waiting.

    Lu Changfeng handed the papers to Liu Mumu, dering, "Commander Liu, after testing, everyone has passed. They may proceed."

    "Hmm." Upon hearing that everyone had passed, Liu Mumu didn¡¯t ponder further and took the papers. However, her gaze inadvertently swept down to thest entry. The words <em>half an inch</em> gave her pause.

    "If Commander Liu doubts, you can check personally," Lu Changfeng offered.

    "Get lost," Liu Mumu responded emotionlessly, tucking away the papers, then addressing the candidates on either side, "Those who have passed the demeanor inspection, follow me into the Hall of Celestial Law!"

    The Hall of Celestial Law, situated behind the front hall, was significantlyrger.

    Beyond the Hall of Celestial Lawy the ck Demon Cavern.

    Inside the Hall, each candidate was given a table and chair, and the exam papers on the tables were half a foot thick, containing at least a thousand questions.

    Seeing this, Yun Xiao muttered to himself, "The tests get more bizarre the further you go. Luckily, I did my homework beforeing here!"

    "Take your seats!" Liu Mumumanded.

    Everyone took their ces ording to the numbers on their jade tokens.

    "Wait," Liu Mumu turned back to address the other Arbiters, "Scramble the order of the tables and chairs for anonymous grading."

    "What are you doing?" Yuan Gang shook his head, "Don¡¯t make itplicated just for the sake of form."

    "In recent years, the public has raised objections about the grading of the Celestial Law Exam. It¡¯s not out of the question that some among the Arbiter ranks may have epted bribes, some even brazenly challenge the celestialws! My actions are also to demonstrate our integrity to our friends in Sky Soaring City," Liu Mumu exined, raising an eyebrow at Yuan Gang, "Commander Yuan, are you scared?"

    Yuan Gang, with a solemn expression, paused before replying, "Having your father involve you in the Arbiter examination wasn¡¯t a good idea."

    "Then go talk to him about it."

    After saying this, Liu Mumumanded coldly, "Scramble them!"

    At her words, many of the younger candidates, particrly those dressed in fine garments, suddenly looked anxious and distressed.

    They stealthily red at Liu Mumu.

    "I¡¯m going to report this vile woman as soon as I get back, dig up her dirt, and have her thrown far from here," a girl in blue whispered to Lu Xiaolu beside her.

    "How disgusting! What¡¯s she ying at being so high and mighty?" Lu Xiaolu spat.

    "Her father will be the first to deal with her! We''re all in the same boat in Sky Soaring City, seeing each other day in and day out. She¡¯s just stirring up trouble," the girl in blue said in dismay.

    "Such a foolish woman!" Lu Xiaolu scoffed disdainfully.

    Regardless of their private mutterings, a fair Celestial Law Exammenced.

 Chapter 516: Early to Die, Too Late to Scheme!

    Chapter 516: Early to Die, Too Late to Scheme!

    The first step was a meticulous recitation of 3,000 Celestial Laws, verbatim, without a single misstep in character or punctuation. Then came a series of 100 questions.

    This intensity made it clear that this portion of the examination was the crux of the Arbiter examination; the ck Demon Cavern that followed was merely to demonstrate one''s talents andbat abilities.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    This was how the Celestial Court selected its grassroots members!

    Although grueling, Yun Xiao had been through this before and knew the drill: stick to the righteous and upright path.

    Scribbling furiously, everyone penned their answers.

    After about three hours, the Celestial Law Exam concluded. The Arbiters gathered the papers, with Liu Mumu sealing them first.

    "Prepare for the ck Demon Cavern trial! The results of the Celestial Law Exam and the provisional Arbiter list will be announced this evening at the Skyruler Immortal Manor entrance on the Radiant Board before dark falls," Liu Mumu dered.

    Having endured the written test, many of the 100 contenders were now sweating from their foreheads.

    As they approached the most thrilling challenge, nervousness was palpable.Led by veteran Arbiters, they stood before the entrance to the ck Demon Cavern.

    Peering ahead, Yun Xiao saw the cavern shrouded in ck smoke, resembling the maw of an abyss, or a mini Ascension Pool.

    From within, indistinct voices of demons echoed.

    Unlike the demon prisons at the Primordial Academy, the ck Demon Cavern was essentially a zone of spatial chaos, drawing in myriad creatures from other locales, adding ayer of unpredictability. One misstep could indeed lead to disappearing into another dimension.

    That¡¯s why the ck Demon Cavern was considered a significant trial.

    "We''ve ced 1,000 Arbiter Tokens in the areas most frequented by creatures an hour ahead of your arrival. Return on time after an hour in the ck Demon Cavern, and the Arbiter Tokens will determine the oue!" Liu Mumu announced.

    The number of Arbiter Tokens ounted for only about 30% of the score, not the entirety.

    The Celestial Law Exam earlier held a weight of 50%!

    Given the subjective nature of the Celestial Law Exam''s scoring, the number of Arbiter Tokens was a controble factor for the participants, often ensuring that those with more tokens ranked higher.

    "Master, how did I fare in the first round of the demeanor inspection?"

    Before they set off, Yun Xiao murmured a question.

    "A D grade, 5 points," Lu Mumu replied.

    The demeanor inspection was out of 20.

    "Where did the other 15 points go?" Yun Xiao paused in confusion.

    Liu Mumu pursed her lips, gesturing towards the ck Demon Cavern, "In the Celestial Court, unless it''s made public, all these unofficial scores are meaningless. Don''t fret over it. They''ll write whatever they please."

    "Understood," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "How did you fare in the Celestial Law Exam?" Liu Mumu inquired.

    "No problems," Yun Xiao replied confidently.

    "Thest step, once you cross it, the vast sky and sea await you. Push on," Liu Mumu''s gaze softened, a glimmer of hope sparkling in her eyes.

    "Alright," Yun Xiao nodded.

    He then moved to stand with the others in front of the ck Demon Cavern, waiting for themand.

    The mist of the ck Demon Cavern swirled around his face, casting an eerie beauty.

    "Hey."

    Suddenly, someone tapped his lower back.

    Yun Xiao knew who it was. He turned to see Lu Xiaolu in her green dress, lively as a forest nymph, pouting at him, "Lu Yao, I need a sidekick, why don''t you join me?"

    "Join you?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Yes," Lu Xiaolu ced her hands on her hips. "My best friends are big shots from the Immortal families of Sky Soaring City. With your looks, just follow me, and you''re set for life if the right person takes a liking."

    "..." Yun Xiao gave her a look. Why, when both were lively young girls, did Lian Xi seem so pure and just, while this girl reeked of worldly filth? Was she really a cultivator? Or was cultivation merely a means to enhance mortal strength, unrted to one''s inner principles?

    "No need," Yun Xiao spoke and looked away.

    Lu Xiaolu had hoped for the typical male enthusiasm, given her proactive approach. After all, she had offered him a chance. But Yun Xiao''s icy refusal felt like a bucket of cold water thrown over her head.

    "You¡­" Lu Xiaolu rolled her eyes, muttered ''idiot'', and turned back to her friends.

    "Lu Xiaolu, what happened? Did he y along?" the girl in blue asked.

    "Nope, not one bit. Thinks he''s the only pure one in a tainted world, a self-righteous prick," Lu Xiaolu scoffed.

    "People like that still exist?" the blue-d girl said, dumbfounded.

    "Ha."

    "I remember now," a girl in orange interjected, her eyes lighting up. "I heard that he came back with a woman this time, hideously ugly, too ashamed to show her face."

    "Oh?" Lu Xiaolu raised an eyebrow, looking at Yun Xiao''s retreating figure. "A self-righteous fool and a lovesick puppy? How quaint."

    "Lu Xiaolu, you know the saying, <em>spurn the toast only to drink a forfeit</em>. Why don''t you tease him a bit?" the girl in orange suggested with a grin.

    "Sure, let''s have some fun, let him get a taste of the dark forces of Sky Soaring City!" Lu Xiaolu narrowed her eyes, quickly scheming. She whispered coldly, "After the Arbiter examination ends tonight, get some tough guys to take that ugly woman he brought, do it right in front of him."

    "Really?" The other girls were initially shocked at the suggestion. But the more they thought about it, the more thrilling it seemed.

    "A man rich in righteousness and foolishly in love is the rarest toy in these times. I wouldn''t want to miss out on this fun," Lu Xiaolu said, arms crossed, her smile revealing a deep-seated malice.

    "Open the ck Demon Cavern!"

    Just then, Liu Mumu''s voice rang out.

    It was a one hour limit!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A thick ck smoke cleared a path.

    The contenders'' eyes sharpened, and almost in unison, they dashed into the ck Demon Cavern.

    As soon as they entered, the space twisted like a torrent, scattering them across various parts of the cavern.

    Despite this, if they turned around, they could see a ring bright light at the entrance of the ck Demon Cavern, guiding them back.

    "So eerie..." Lu Xiaolunded on the ground, her green skirt ring up, nearly revealing too much.

    She hovered above a river of moltenva, surrounded by rolling clouds and fierce fires, the air blisteringly hot, with the roaring of magma never ceasing.

    The malevolent and brutal demon aura felt as if it clung close by.

    Even for her, this atmosphere was unsettling.

    "I scored perfect on demeanor, but that vile Liu Mumu messed with the written exam. It''s tough to score well, so I have to rely on the Arbiter Tokens now."

    Thinking of Liu Mumu, Lu Xiaolu bit her lip, cursing her a million times over in her heart.

    "That wretch, if she ever falls into my hands at the Skyruler Immortal Manor, I''ll make her pay."

    Muttering curses under her breath, Lu Xiaolu summoned her Sword Soul, which transformed into a six-foot Sovereign Sword under her feet, ready to search for Arbiter Tokens.

    Her Sword Soul, wrapped in 999,000yers of Sword Aura, seemed to reach its limit. It was a verdant Sword Soul, resembling green agate, bursting with vitality. Wherever it went, even above the magma, it seemed to create verdant oases.

    This indicated that her Sword Soul naturally possessed both life-giving and mesmerizing properties, a high-level attribute.

    It was a True Immortal''s Sword Soul!

    "After ten years of arduous cultivation, I''ll start as an Arbiter tomorrow. Finally, I''ll have the right to trample others legitimately!" Lu Xiaolu thought of herself donning the tinum celestial armor, looking forward to it, for it meant she was officially an adult.

    With this thought, her spirits lifted, and she even started humming a tune.

    At that instant, a loud boom erupted as a nine-headed violet dragon suddenly burst from the magma below, sweeping up a storm of fire like a gaping maw lunging at her!

    "Is the demon this quick?" Lu Xiaolu was slightly startled but reacted swiftly, her six-foot Sovereign Sword now a three-foot green de in her hand.

    Her beautiful eyes locked onto the dragon, and she thrust her sword mightily.

    But just as the dragon neared her, it exploded, transforming into a chessboard swirling with tens of thousands of stars, instantly pressing down upon her!

    "A Life Sigil?" Lu Xiaolu gaped in shock.

    This indicated it was humans attacking her, not demons!

    How could this be! The chessboard of stars not only tore through space but sliced into her tender skin, shredding her green dress instantly, her graceful figure swiftly engulfed by blood.

    Lu Xiaolu, who lived a life of power and privilege, had never witnessed such a scene. Amid the excruciating pain, her mind went nk.

    With a whoosh, a young man in white suddenly appeared before her, his Flying Sword shooting forth with a trail of azure starry me, piercing Lu Xiaolu''s heart in an instant¡ªa strike that was swift, precise, and ruthless.

    As the Flying Sword passed, her chest began to vaporize into blue smoke, her heart torn apart, her life force dissipating like mist.

    She gasped, her face contorted in agony and turned ghostly pale, her eyes wide with fear and despair as she looked at Yun Xiao.

    <em>NO! NO! NO! </em>To her, this was all a nightmarish dream¡ªan absurd nightmare!

    She looked down trembling, only to see a gaping hole five inches wide in her chest, smoking and bloody.

    "You dare..."

    Her eyes were wide with terror and tears streamed down her face as she looked at Yun Xiao, who merely smiled slightly and said, "I''m sorry, you''re missing now. It''s your parents and brother''s turn to look for you for ten years."

    Lu Xiaolu''s eyes trembled violently. She had 1,000 threats and curses, but none came out.

    "Little girl, the path of an Immortal isn''t just about opportunism and bullying. There''s also my kind who will just kill you on the spot for pissing them off," Yun Xiao said, then threw her into the magma below and walked away.

 Chapter 517: I Decide Your Fate!

    Chapter 517: I Decide Your Fate!

    In a hidden corner of the ck Demon Cavern, a woman named Li Qianxin, one of the Arbiters overseeing the examination, clutched a diagram of a magical formation in her hands. Her delicate brows furrowed deeply as she scrutinized the diagram.

    At that moment, the entrance of the cavern flickered with light. Two men in tinum celestial armor soared in, their presence as formidable as mountains. They were themander Yuan Gang and his deputy Lu Changfeng.

    "Commander Yuan, Deputy Lu," Li Qianxin hastened to greet them, her voice grave, "There''s a situation."

    "Speak!" Yuan Gang said.

    "You asked me to keep an eye on Lu Yao. Look at this."

    She handed over the magical formation diagram to Yuan Gang and Lu Changfeng. "The blue numbers correspond to the candidates, and the red dots represent the Arbiter Tokens. Lu Yao is Number One, and he has gathered over 130 tokens, 80 more than the runner-up."

    Their eyes followed her finger which pointed to a cluster of dense red dots around a certain blue numeral dot on the diagram.

    "How can this be?" Lu Changfeng couldn''t believe his eyes.

    "This imposter... Lu Yao''s return after ten years is indeed strange. He must have learned some obscure techniques to find these Arbiter Tokens, specifically to qualify as an Arbiter," Yuan Gang spected."Give me the diagram and go back. I''ll handle things here," Lu Changfeng said, not echoing Yuan Gang''s thoughts but addressing Li Qianxin directly.

    "Yes." Li Qianxin nodded. As she handed over the diagram, something else came to her mind. "Hey, wasn¡¯t Xiaolu number two before on the rankings?"

    "Yes." Lu Changfeng replied absently, "She boasts a lot, how many tokens has she gathered?"

    "None," Li Qianxin said awkwardly.

    "None?" Lu Changfeng paused, ncing at the diagram where Lu Xiaolu''s blue dot was slowly moving, its surroundingspletely devoid of any red dots.

    "Xiaolu,st ce?" Yuan Gang''s expression turned peculiar.

    She was supposed to be the top seed!

    Due to her young age, she might not be the strongest, but with the initial phases of the examination¡ªpoise and the written exam¡ªproviding a maximum of 70 points, she was expected to score at least 68 points.

    But now, their ns to cheat in the written exam were foiled, and Lu Xiaolu wasst in the ck Demon Cavern! If she couldn''t be an Arbiter, it would be aughingstock for ady of her pedigree.

    "Alright, I understand." Lu Changfeng''s expression shifted darkly as he took the diagram of the magical formation.

    Li Qianxin made her exit.

    "This isn''t normal." Yuan Gang furrowed his brow.

    "Let''s split up and see for ourselves. Old Yuan, you take that kid down. I¡¯ll check on what madness Lu Xiaolu is up to," Lu Changfeng said.

    "There''s only one diagram," Yuan Gang noted.

    Lu Changfeng nced at the diagram, which showed one point moving rapidly and another slowly.

    "Take it, I know where Lu Xiaolu is."

    After speaking, Lu Changfeng¡¯s face tensed, and he turned to leave.

    "Don''t worry, this is the Skyruler Immortal Manor; nothing bad will happen!" Yuan Gang called after him.

    "Right," Lu Changfeng didn''t look back as he departed, adding, "Make it clean on your end!"

    "A piece of cake," Yuan Gang smirked coldly.

    Holding the diagram, he focused on the densely packed red points marked around Yun Xiao''s blue dot, transforming into a streak of white light as he pursued it swiftly.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>BOOM! </em>This was a deste ck mountain.

    Surrounding the mountain was scorching magma, which resembled a gaping maw of crimson, spewing bloody mists of fire, while the mountain itself seemed like the tongue of this monstrous mouth, constantly at risk of being swallowed.

    Atop the ck mountain, a young man in white halted and sat down. It was Yun Xiao.

    "There''s a lot of demons here, but my Sword Aura is stagnating at 9,999,999yers¡ªa sort of hard cap, it seems. I need to ask Master about this," Yun Xiao mused quietly.

    He had amassed many Arbiter Tokens through sheer strength.

    "Just over 130 Arbiter Tokens, thest 30 points should be maxed out."

    The 30 points for the ck Demon Cavern portion of the Arbiter examination were allocated ording to rank.

    It was 30 points for first ce, 29 points for second, and so on and so forth¡­

    Yun Xiao, having collected 133 Arbiter Tokens, saw no need to continue his search. He was perched atop the ck mountain, waiting quietly.

    Soon, a tinum light shimmered before him, and from it, a burly middle-aged Arbiter stepped forth, his fierce eyes locking onto Yun Xiao as mes roared around him.

    Yun Xiao looked up, meeting the fiery gaze.

    "Greetings, Commander Yuan," Yun Xiao said.

    "Why have you stopped moving?" Yuan Gang asked, his voice booming like thunder.

    "Moving?" Yun Xiao nced at the magical diagram in Yuang Gang''s hand and asked in confusion, "Are you monitoring me?"

    "Just patrolling," Yuan Gang responded.

    "Oh." Yun Xiao smiled, showing off his handful of Arbiter Tokens. "I''ve already gathered 133 Arbiter Tokens. Based on past events, that should secure first ce in the ck Demon Cavern, so I thought it best to stop."

    "If you''re stopping, why not head out?" Yuan Gang pointed toward the cavern''s glowing entrance.

    Yun Xiao grinned. "I was just wondering whether I should look for more."

    "Oh¡­" Yuan Gang nodded while studying the young man in white.

    Yun Xiao''s face showed no fear.

    After a moment of silence, Yuan Gang''s expression chilled. "You seem quite indifferent to death?"

    "Death?" Yun Xiao paused, puzzled. "I''m not sure what you mean. I¡¯ve gone through great lengths for these tokens, aiming to be an Arbiter. Why would I face death?"

    Yuan Gang shook his head, his imposing figure advancing toward Yun Xiao, his eyes suddenly shing coldly.

    "Young man, you dare to covet a morsel from Sky Soaring City. Should I call you foolish?" With a coldugh, Yuan Gang''s formidable presence bore down like countless mountains upon Yun Xiao¡¯s head.

    Yun Xiao stood his ground, his voice filled with shock and anger, as he barraged Yuan Gang with questions. "Are you trying to intimidate me? I''ve earned my ce as an Arbiter fairly; my family has dedicated their lives to this duty for generations! What wrong have I done? This is a solemn ce for the Arbiter examination. As amander of the Arbiters, are you openly nning to vite the rules and seize my Arbiter Tokens? Who would you even give them to?"

    "What solemn ce? This is my territory, Yuan Gang''s domain, and I decide the fate of all you lowlifes here!" The thought of this young man ruining his son''s year ignited a fire in Yuan Gang''s heart.

    It was his first time seeing someone so audacious without merit!

    With a thunderous motion, heunched a devastating punch, much stronger than his son''s by tenfold, like a tinum mythical beast tearing through the air, stirring up a tempest of mes as it barreled towards Yun Xiao.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yuan Gang, you dare openly defy the Celestial Laws! You will die for this!" Yun Xiao roared defiantly.

    "Ha." Yuan Gang advanced with a cold gaze.

    With a massive punch, the violet Runic Umbre in front of Yun Xiao shattered explosively. The force of the blow sent him plummeting like a meteor into the magma below in the ck Demon Cavern.

    Gurgling sounds filled the air as the magma, dark as a monstrous beast, swallowed Yun Xiao whole, his screams faintly echoing.

    "The ck demon magma should reduce his bones to ash," Yuan Gang muttered, hovering above the magma. He waited a while but heard no further sounds.

    Ten years earlier, the real Lu Yao had been reduced to ashes here, in this very magma that drew demons with its ancient fiery power.

    To be certain, Yuan Gang searched a bit more, but even he couldn''t stay long in such conditions.

    Checking the magical diagram, he frowned. "This batch of Arbiter Tokens and his identifier have sunk to the deepest parts of the magma."

    That was a ce where even he would turn to ash.

    Assured that Yun Xiao had met the same fate as Lu Yao, Yuan Gang sneered, "A speck of dust in chaotic times, a wisp of smoke after death," and then he departed.

    About a quarter of an hourter, he and Lu Changfeng met at the entrance of the ck Demon Cavern.

    "What happened to that impostor?" Lu Changfeng''s face seemed shrouded in dark smoke.

    "He''s gone," Yuan Gang said with a cold smirk.

    "My sister''s gone too!" Lu Changfeng said, his expression turning grim.

 Chapter 518: Lord Lu!

    Chapter 518: Lord Lu!

    "Ah?" Yuan Gang was taken aback.

    "After I crossed over, I found this on the surface of theva!" Lu Changfeng held a jade pendant in his hand, marked with the number <em>two</em>. "This thing was drifting slowly on the surface of theva. Everyone thought it was just moving on its own, so we didn''t pay it any mind..."

    "So, the person is missing, and only this is left?" Yuan Gang''s voice trembled.

    "Yes! What do we do, Old Yuan? This girl is the apple of my father''s eye, and now something''s happened to her in our Skyruler Immortal Manor!" Lu Changfeng''s face was pale.

    "Quick, get out there and call in a hundred brothers to search together!" Yuan Gang hurriedly said.

    "The Arbiter examination isn''t over yet, and you want so many brothers toe in?" Lu Changfeng asked.

    "At a time like this, who cares about the Arbiter examination? Are you still acting like a brother?" Yuan Gang said, exasperated.

    "Right, right, right, my mind''s just a bit scrambled." Having said that, Lu Changfeng gritted his teeth and turned to rush out of the ck Demon Cavern.

    "Li Qianxin, immediately summon a hundred Arbiters!"Once outside, he shouted at the female Arbiter.

    "Deputy Lu?" Li Qianxin was stunned.

    His shouting disturbed Liu Mumu, who was at the Hall of Celestial Law organizing examination papers. She put down what she was doing and went outside to address Lu Changfeng, "The Arbiter examination is in progress, and no one but the examiners may enter."

    "My sister is missing!" Lu Changfeng roared.

    Liu Mumu was taken aback and asked, "How did she go missing?"

    "Just this is left, no sign of her!" Lu Changfeng presented the token with the jade pendant.

    Liu Mumu pursed her lips and said softly, "Perhaps she''s just being mischievous and tossed this away."

    "Shut your mouth!" Lu Changfeng gave her a cold look. At such a moment, he naturally didn''t regard Liu Mumu as his superior.

    And by now, the Madame, who had been resting, had heard the news. Her face ashen, she staggered as she asked Lu Changfeng, "Is it true?"

    "It''s true! Forget the examination, we need to find her!" Lu Changfeng shouted.

    "Search for her!" The Madame, her eyes red and swollen,manded the surrounding Arbiters.

    At her word, the Arbiters sprang into action. Li Qianxin issued a rallying call, and within moments, over 200 white-armored Arbiters assembled and marched into the ck Demon Cavern.

    Suchmotion during an Arbiter examination was unprecedented. Ten years ago, when Lu Yao disappeared, there was scarcely a ripple until the examination concluded. Back then, only a few like Lu An and Liu Mumu had gone in search after much dy.

    But now, the entire Guard of the Arbiters was in disarray.

    It wasn''t just the Guard; the Skyruler Immortal Manor itself seemed in turmoil, with Arbiters abandoning their duties to join the search in the cavern. Within half an hour, a thousand had entered.

    As time passed without a sign of her, the Madame copsed to the ground, herplexion ghostly pale as tears streamed down her face, crying openly in despair.

    "If she''s not found, none of you shall have an easy time!" In her anguish, the Madame shouted these biting words.

    Just then, two formidable presences arrived.

    The leader, a middle-aged man in a white robe with ck hair and white eyebrows, held a whisk as if he were a celestial being from beyond the clouds. Yet, his brow was furrowed, his eyes fierce as the sea in a storm.

    "Lord Lu!"

    Upon his arrival, all the True Immortals bowed respectfully.

    "Have you found her?" Lord Lu helped the Madame to her feet, his voice booming like thunder.

    "Lord Lu, 1,500 Arbiters have entered the ck Demon Cavern... There''s still no word," Liu Mumu reported.

    "Liu Chaochao!" Lord Lu turned to look at a tall man who had arrived with him, with ck hair tied back and eyes sharp as jade, resembling Liu Mumu slightly.

    This was Liu Mumu''s elder brother, currently holding a high position in Sky Soaring City as the Sky Protector, a prestigious Rank 7 Heavenly Officer.

    "Lord Lu, I am here," Liu Chaochao stepped forward, his brow furrowed.

    "Send another thousand!" Lord Lu''s voice was deep, his expression twisted.

    Such a disy of emotion from Lord Lu showed how dearly he cherished and loved his daughter.

    "Yes," Liu Chaochao nced at Liu Mumu.

    Liu Mumu rolled her eyes, issued the rallying call, and muttered to herself sarcastically, "A princess of the Celestial Court goes missing, and it doesn''t cause as much stir as your family does."

    Lord Lu not only called for more people but also entered the cavern himself with Liu Chaochao.

    "The ck Demon Cavern is only sorge; you''re filling it to the brim."

    Liu Mumu nced at the time; the Arbiter examination was nearly over.

    One by one, the candidates emerged from inside, looking utterly bewildered.

    "Hand over the Arbiter Tokens here." Liu Mumu continued her duties, unaffected by the ongoing search.

    Indeed, no one else concerned themselves with her task.

    As the candidates handed over their edicts one by one, the Arbiter examination was drawing to a close.

    Yuan Gang and Lu Changfeng emerged from the ck Demon Cavern, both with heads bowed and faces grim.

    "Where is she? Where is Xiaolu?" the Madame cried out in sorrow.

    "Mother, we haven''t found her yet... But don''t worry, Father has personally gone in," Lu Changfeng said.

    "Then why did youe out?!" the Madame scolded.

    "Father told me to get out..." Lu Changfeng replied helplessly. The favoritism towards his sister usually caused no issue, but now that there was trouble, he found himself med both inside and out.

    Both men stood aside, visibly agitated.

    The ordeal in the ck Demon Cavern was nearly over, with all but Yun Xiao and Lu Xiaolu¡ªthe remaining 98 candidates¡ªhaving emerged.

    This in itself indicated that the dangers of the Arbiter examination were actually minimal. The likelihood of mishaps was very low!

    "Do you think we''ll still find Xiaolu?" Lu Changfeng whispered to Yuan Gang.

    "I don''t know..." Yuan Gang took a deep breath and looked at Lu Changfeng seriously. "Actually, for you, this might not be entirely bad."

    "Don''t talk nonsense!" Lu Changfeng clenched his teeth.

    "Right." Yuan Gang nodded. "And with the imposter also gone, there¡¯s even less interference for you."

    As his words fell, a series of subdued exmations suddenly came from elsewhere.

    "Over 100 Arbiter Tokens!"

    "Who is this?"

    "Lu Yao!"

    Hearing this, Yuan Gang could hardly believe his ears. He stared in disbelief toward Liu Mumu, where an unscathed young man in white stood holding arge bunch of Arbiter Tokens.

    He even turned his head and gave Yuan Gang a slight smile.

    "I thought you said you took care of him!?" Lu Changfeng was taken aback, ring at Yuan Gang.

    "Impossible! I saw him fall deep into the magma!" Yuan Gang said incredulously.

    "Falling into your mother!" Lu Changfeng cursed in frustration. His sister was missing, yet this impostor was alive and had just publicly submitted over 100 Arbiter Tokens, breaking a century-old record.

    "There¡¯s something off about this kid!" Yuan Gang stared daggers at Yun Xiao, his voice cold as ice.

    "Better think about how to exin my sister''s disappearance to my father first!" Lu Changfeng hung his head, his heart filled with turmoil.

    Meanwhile, Liu Mumu was also surprised by therge number of tokens.

    "You''re truly strong for a Yang Immortal." Liu Mumu praised.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Please, you''re ttering me," Yun Xiao replied modestly.

    "Don''t be modest, I just previewed your exam paper." Liu Mumu looked at him intently.

    "How is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Bring your mother to the front of Skyruler Immortal Manor this afternoon," Liu Mumu instructed.

    With her words, Yun Xiao felt reassured.

    "Then I¡¯ll take my leave now." Yun Xiao bowed.

    "Wait." Liu Mumu looked around to make sure no one was nearby and whispered, "Xiaolu is missing."

    "I heard." Yun Xiao nodded. "This uproar is ironic for Lu Yao."

    "Did you do it?" Liu Mumu raised an eyebrow.

    "Don''t talk nonsense, I am an honest man." Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Go on, then!" Liu Mumu waved him off.

    "Thank you!" With that, Yun Xiao quietly left amid themotion.

    Once outside the Skyruler Immortal Manor, Yun Xiao nced to the side where a huge glowing leaderboard stood.

    This afternoon, the new list of Arbiters would be announced, under the watchful eyes of all cultivators in the city.

    "A moment to shine gloriously for the ancestors." Clutching a spherical object in his hand, Yun Xiao sneered and headed in the direction of Arbiter Lu''s home.

 Chapter 519: Dear, How Wonderful!

    Chapter 519: Dear, How Wonderful!

    Upon returning to the Skyruler Immortal Manor, one could see that the estate was in a state of chaos. People, up and down, were in disarray, gathering in groups, all abuzz about the disappearance of Lu Xiaolu in the ck Demon Cavern. Her favor was more than Yun Xiao had anticipated.

    "It''s just the beginning of settling scores for Lu Yao," Yun Xiao said, his expression unchanged as he returned home.

    At noon, Miss Yu was bustling about the kitchen. Every so often, she asked Lian Xi, "Has Lil Yaoe back yet?"

    Just as she asked this time, Yun Xiao''s voice came from outside, "I''m back."

    Seeing Yun Xiao as usual, Lian Xi breathed a sigh of relief.

    "How did it go?" she asked softly.

    "There shouldn''t be much trouble," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Everyone''s whispering about Lu Xiaolu..."

    "I killed her," Yun Xiao dered."Right!" Lian Xi nodded, understanding, and no longer pursued the matter, instead joining Yun Xiao back by Miss Yu''s side.

    Miss Yu had prepared a table full of dishes.

    At the table, she said anxiously, "I heard that Xiaolu also met with trouble in the ck Demon Cavern. That ce is too dangerous. I think, for Lil Yao, skipping the Arbiter examination wouldn''t hurt! To live a quiet, carefree life might be best."

    Yun Xiao put down his chopsticks and smiled, "Mother, I''ll take you out this afternoon."

    "What''s there to see? I can''t see anything. It would be pointless, and I don¡¯t want to burden you with the whispers of others," Miss Yu quickly objected. It had been a long while since she had left the estate.

    "Just a walk, listen to me," Yun Xiao insisted seriously.

    "Mother, just this once, listen to him," Lian Xi said gently.

    "Well, alright..." Miss Yu pursed her lips, then asked, "Is Lil Xiing along?"

    Yun Xiao nced at Lian Xi and said, "She''s noting."

    "Why not?" Miss Yu asked, puzzled.

    Yun Xiao thought for a moment, then lied, "She''s a bit under the weather with some small injuries. She needs a few days to rest."

    "Injured? Then I should look after her..." Miss Yu said anxiously.

    "She just needs to rest," Yun Xiao replied.

    After their meal, Yun Xiao nned to take her out. As they were leaving, he said to Lian Xi, "I spoke again with Liu Mumu. She said she¡¯d be free today and would help me find an inconspicuous mask that can somewhat alter appearances. Just wait a bit longer."

    "I know. I''m not in a hurry," Lian Xi replied with a smile, the picture of a wise wife bidding them farewell.

    Once they were gone, a little white tiger popped out,ining, "What¡¯s this? Leaving you all alone here, he really thinks he¡¯s the hero!"

    "Don¡¯t stir up trouble," Lian Xi said, rubbing her temples.

    "Lil Xi, I''m serious!" The little white tiger gritted its teeth. "This scoundrel is getting too arrogant. To show him who¡¯s really in charge, we should take him down tonight!"

    "..." Lian Xi rolled her eyes, shut the courtyard door, and ignored it.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the afternoon, the entrance to the Skyruler Immortal Manor was bustling.

    A crowd of Immortals from Sky Soaring City had gathered, waiting for the annual Arbiter examination results and buzzing about Lu Xiaolu¡¯s disappearance.

    "I heard the Lu Family turned the ck Demon Cavern upside down and found nothing."

    "How strange. Could someone have murdered her to silence her?"

    "Nonsense. To kill the beloved daughter of a Manor Lord under the watch of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, who would dare? It¡¯d be a death wish for their whole n."

    "Could it be like Lu Yao, twisted away to another ce by distorted space?"

    "That seems most likely."

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, societal ranks were sharply defined, the divide between strong and weak vast as a chasm, the descendants of authority wielding immense deterrence.

    And so, it was hard for the people to believe this was a case of foul y.

    "They''re still searching in the ck Demon Cavern, but the Arbiter examination hasn¡¯t been affected; they¡¯re about to announce the results."

    "Let¡¯s see which family''s scions will be Heavenly Officers today."

    Themon folk paid little mind to the children of high officials, for their ascension to Arbiter was almost guaranteed. It was the fewmoners who broke through to be Arbiters each year, bringing glory to their ancestors, that truly captured attention.

    Soon, the front of Skyruler Immortal Manor was teeming with people.

    "Lil Yao, why have you brought me here?" Miss Yu, amidst the crowd and despite Yun Xiao¡¯s protection, felt somewhat uneasy. It had been many years since she had been in such a lively scene.

    "Don''t worry, just wait a bit longer," Yun Xiao smiled.

    "What are we waiting for?" Miss Yu couldn''t help butugh and cry.

    "Just a reminder, this morning, under my master''s rmendation, I participated in the Arbiter examination," Yun Xiao said with a lightugh.

    "Did you really?" Miss Yu said nkly, quickly grabbing his arm. "Are you hurt?"

    Her first reaction was not about the results, but about any injuries... a true mother¡¯s concern.

    "I''m not hurt." Yun Xiao took her hand gently and said, "No more talk, the results are about to be announced."

    "It''s okay, as long as you''ve tried your best, that''s enough." Miss Yu, fearful of him disappearing again, stressed repeatedly to Yun Xiao not to worry about the oue.

    Eventually, the previously chattering crowd suddenly fell silent. That was because a group of Arbiters d in tinum armor stepped forth from the Skyruler Immortal Manor. They carried an air of stern authority!

    Leading them was a robust and handsome man, known as Sky Protector Liu Chaochao. Along with him, Liu Mumu, Yuan Gang, othermanders, and Lu Changfeng were all present.

    Liu Chaochao, with a solemn expression, stood on the steps at the entrance and announced, "After a day of examinations and scoring, this year we will recruit 30 qualified Arbiter candidates!"

    Out of 100 participants, 70 failed to make the cut-off, it was quite brutal.

    After speaking, Liu Chaochao ordered, "Post the results!"

    "Yes!" Lu Changfeng''s expression shifted ufortably. He held a tinum scroll, advancing toward the luminous board. Even he himself did not know the contents of the scroll.

    The final scores were aggregated by the Sky Protector and five Commanders. Lu Changfeng only knew that Yuan Gang had a strange expression when he handed him the scroll.

    And then, the moment to announce the results arrived!

    With a swish, all eyes of the gathered onlookers turned towards the tinum scroll in his hand.

    A hush fell over the crowd!

    Lu Changfeng moved like the wind, his actions swift as he leapt up and hung the tinum scroll on the luminous board.

    <em>RUSTLE! </em>As hended, the scroll unfurled behind him, shimmering with names inscribed in gold from top to bottom!

    The name at the very top was, of course, the most eye-catching. It signified the top schr of this year''s examination!

    The top three of each year¡¯s Arbiter examination received special privileges. The first ce was, naturally, the focal point of everyone''s attention.

    Ten years ago, Lu Changfeng had debuted officially as first ce.

    In ten years, he had soared to the rank of a prospectivemander¡ªa meteoric rise.

    "Today''s top schr of Sky Soaring City is..."

    Everyone looked intently, their minds filled with question marks.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Lu Yao?"

    More and more people eximed this name in shock.

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! WHOOSH! </em>Beside Yun Xiao, surprised nces were cast his way. He met Liu Mumu''s smiling face and knew that this first ce was no surprise.

    Apart from the <em>half-inch</em> deduction, his performance had been wless.

    Next to the name Lu Yao, his final score was noted¡ª85 points.

    This meant that, had Lu Changfeng not unjustly deducted those 15 points, he would have had a perfect score as an Arbiter!

    "Lil Yao, why are they shouting your name?" Miss Yu couldn''t see, but she sensed the extraordinary nature of the moment.

    "Mother. Because your son has scored 85, the highest score, and be this year¡¯s top Arbiter." Yun Xiao held his breath as he delivered this exhrating news.

    He wanted to make her happy! It was that simple!

    "You mustn¡¯t joke around..." Miss Yu''s voice trembled, tears swirling in her eyes.

    She was torn between reality and disbelief.

    "Congrattions, Lady Yu!"

    "Your Lil Yao has truly brought glory to his ancestors!"

    "To im the top spot among the offspring of such distinguished Immortals, even at his age, is trulymendable!"

    "A line of six generations of Arbiters, each a hero!"

    "Lady Yu, you¡¯ve raised them well; both your sons have be Arbiters!"

    Miss Yu could not see the envious nces, but she heard every word of admiration, clear as day.

    "Really? Truly?" She grasped Lu Yao''s arms, her dark eyes sparkling with light.

    "You already know it''s true," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    Miss Yu began to cry, nearly copsing to the ground, then murmured repeatedly, "It''s wonderful, Bufan, truly wonderful!"

    Bufan was the name of her husband, Lu Bufan.

    "Lady Yu, this is a moment of great honor; no tears now."

    "Yes, you should be smiling!"

    "Yes, yes, smile!" Miss Yu transformed her tears intoughter, her face shining brightly with joy.

    Watching all this, Yun Xiao too felt a surge of happiness.

    Perhaps because his parents had passed away too soon, leaving him to shoulder burdens early, he never had the chance to show them his aplishments. Today, perhaps, he had made up for that regret in his heart.

    "Father, mother, if your spirits are watching, you too would be proud of what I have achieved today," Yun Xiao murmured as he looked up at the sky.

    At the gates of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, some rejoiced at their sess while others mourned their failure.

    "Those who have passed, step forward!" Yuan Gang called out emotionlessly.

    Among the crowd, 30 young people stepped forward, approaching him.

    Yun Xiao was naturally among them.

    Miss Yu, from afar within the crowd, smiled through her tears, responding to people''s congrattions.

    Yuan Gang scanned the 30 initiates. His impassive gaze lingered on Yun Xiao for a moment.

    "Come forward to receive your Arbiter armor, regtions handbook, and equipment," Yuan Gang announced gravely.

    The tinum armor they would wear was the Suan Ni Arbiter Armor, an Immortal treasure. As Arbiters, they also had the right tomand a flying sword vessel.

    Each of the 30 new Arbiters came forward to receive a set of Suan Ni Arbiter Armor and a Bag of Holding.

    Yun Xiao nced inside his Bag of Holding, which contained numerous items such as enforcement orders, a regtion handbook, andw enforcement tools.

 Chapter 520: The Human Heart is Like a Mirror!

    Chapter 520: The Human Heart is Like a Mirror!

    "Listen up, everyone!" Lu Changfeng paused, then said, "For the next five years, you all are merely Arbiter Initiates. Should you err during this time, your status could be revoked at any moment. Only those who perform great deeds for the Celestial Court may officially join earlier. Until your positions are made official after five years, you 30 Arbiter Initiates will follow my lead."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yes, sir!" All the candidates understood these rules well and nodded in agreement.

    "Does Commander Yuan have anything to add?" Lu Changfeng asked.

    Yuan Gang cleared his throat. After coughing, he nced sternly at the 30 Arbiters and dered, "From today onwards, you are Rank 9 Arbiters, representing the authority of the Heavenly Pce. You must lead by example and uphold thews and decrees of the Celestial Court! Any misstep will result in severe penalties!"

    "Understood!" Everyone nodded.

    "Adorn your Arbiter Armor and assemble!" Yuan Gangmanded.

    "Yes, sir!" This tinum armor was one of the most striking attires of the Celestial Court, with a base of white and embellishments of gold, majestic and formidable, both grand and solemn.

    Even a rough man like Yuan Gang looked distinguished in it, let alone Yun Xiao!

    Amidst the envious stares of the crowd, they officially donned their armor. From now on, they would represent the authority of the Celestial Court, battling for its glory, and receiving its protection.However, just as everyone marveled at this moment, an unexpected incident urred.

    <em>KLANK! KLANK! KLANK! </em>As Yun Xiao was donning his armor, a spherical object fell from him and rolled in front of the gathering of Immortals.

    "A Projection Orb?" The crowd was momentarily stunned.

    "Excuse me." Yun Xiao, not yet fully armored, hurried to retrieve it.

    But before he could touch the sphere, it activated itself, shing brightly, then... it projected a scene. The scene revealed a scene of swirling ck smoke and rollingva! A burly Arbiter appeared on the screen.

    "Isn''t that Commander Yuan?" the crowd murmured in surprise.

    Yuan Gang was pondering how to deal with this newly minted Arbiter when the Projection Orb appeared, altering his expression instantly. He moved towards the sphere, but suddenly, Liu Mumu blocked his path.

    "What are you doing?" she asked.

    Her interruption allowed the Yuan Gang within the sphere to speak, and everyone heard him!

    Under Yun Xiao''s grievous interrogation, the Yuan Gang on the screen dered, "What solemn ce? This is my territory, Yuan Gang''s domain, and I decide the fate of all you lowlifes here!"

    The scene was clearly set in the ck Demon Cavern!

    "Uh..." Tens of thousands of Immortal citizens watched this unbelievable revtion in stunned silence, then mechanically looked up at the two main characters inside the sphere.

    "I''m sorry, so sorry!" Yun Xiao, looking panicked, hurriedly picked up the sphere.

    Yuan Gang looked like he''d been smacked in the face. As amander, he had just publicly chastised the neers, dering that any error would increase their level of punishment. But now...

    "Yuan Gang! You dare to ambush a candidate during the Arbiter assessment!"

    "As amander, you brazenly defy thews of the Celestial Court and insult the descendants of martyr Arbiters as lowly!"

    "Yuan Gang! With incontrovertible evidence of your corruption, how can you exin yourself!"

    After an initial silence, the content of the Projection Orbs incited the rage of Sky Soaring City. Most of the crowd,cking the background of Heavenly Officers, were naturally incensed by such injustice.

    At the very least, everyone imagined that Arbiter assessments were fair.

    "Sky Protector, you must give us an exnation! If incidents like Yuan Gang''s aremon, who would dare send their children to the assessments?"

    In a moment, tens of thousands of eyes turned towards Liu Chaochao. His face was cold as he watched everything unfold. "Seize Yuan Gang!" hemanded in a firm voice.

    "Brother Chao!" Yuan Gang''s face went pale, his brows furrowed deeply.

    "Take him away," Liu Chaochaomanded.

    Yuan Gang clenched his teeth, forced to bow his head and allow the other Arbiters to capture him.

    "Lu Yao, hand the Projection Orb over," Liu Chaochao demanded.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao stepped forward, but instead handed the Projection Orb to Liu Mumu.

    Even at this moment, the public was fervently discussing the scene.

    Liu Chaochao took a deep breath and addressed the crowd, "Ladies and gentlemen, such a vition of the Celestial Laws during the Arbiter examination is our responsibility at the Skyruler Immortal Manor. We will conduct a thorough investigation, review the facts, and judge the sins to provide an exnation to all the citizens of Sky Soaring City!"

    Upon hearing this, Yuan Gang''s face twisted. He knew better than anyone that the Celestial Court, at least ostensibly, was a realm governed byws and decrees. Yun Xiao''s cunning maneuver had publicly plunged him into an abyss. He would not only be punished but might also be sacrificed to preserve the image of the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    "Brat, you''ve got some nerve! Weak and alone, you dare oppose the entire hierarchy system of Sky Soaring City. You''ve gotten your revenge, but you and all you hold dear are doomed!" Yuan Gang turned and red coldly at Yun Xiao, cursing in his heart.

    Of course, his mind was also filled with many doubts.

    "Take him away!" Liu Chaochao ordered coldly.

    Today''s events were a blow to his pride as the Sky Protector. He didn''t look at anyone else, just red at Liu Mumu and whispered harshly, "You arranged all this, didn''t you? For Lu An, have you gonepletely mad?"

    "Heh," Liu Mumu shrugged and chuckled coldly.

    "Sky Protector!"

    Just as Liu Chaochao was about to leave, someone within the crowd outside which was fixated on him shouted loudly, "Lu Yao is a descendant of a martyr. He has no influential background. He''s offended some powerful figures today, hasn''t he? Will he be eliminated? I want to know, if something suddenly happens to him, can we still trust the integrity of the Skyruler Immortal Manor?"

    Liu Chaochao replied sternly, "Don''t talk nonsense. He is a Rank 9 Arbiter, a duly appointed Heavenly Officer protected by the Celestial Laws. Anyone who dares to harm himmits a crime!"

    "We don''t care about that. If he dies, we''ll me the Skyruler Immortal Manor!" the people shouted vehemently.

    Those who could practice in the Great Dao Celestial Realm were no fools.

    The tension between officials and civilians was extremely pronounced here; they were all victims, and today was their chance to speak out!

    Yun Xiao daring to reveal this evidence and bring down Yuan Gang to speak up for the <em>lowly</em> ensured that the people would not remain indifferent.

    "Exactly! We demand fairness, justice, and transparency!"

    "If something happens to his family, if they are ostracized, how can we trust the authority of the Skyruler Immortal Manor?"

    Tens of thousands of Immortal citizens were vocal, surrounding the gates of the Skyruler Immortal Manor and speaking nonstop.

    Liu Chaochao, growing impatient, turned back towards the Skyruler Immortal Manor, leaving the mess for Liu Mumu to handle.

    Liu Mumu then addressed the crowd, "Everyone, please be assured. Lu Yao faced a life and death crisis yet emerged victorious, securing the top position in the Arbiter examination. His performance was outstanding. As his master, I will strive to ensure he receives the fairness he deserves."

    Hearing this, the crowd was reassured.

    "Liu Mumu is truly reliable."

    "Exactly!"

    "People''s hearts are like mirrors; everyone understands clearly."

    Seeing the furious crowd finally calm down, Liu Mumu continued, "If there''s nothing else, everyone, please disperse!"

    "Mhm¡­" The citizens finally dispersed.

    Once the crowd had left, Liu Mumu walked over to Yun Xiao, looked him in the eyes, and asked, "Do you know what the high-ranking Immortals in Sky Soaring City despise the most?"

    "Using public sentiment to defy the will of heaven," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Then why still do it?" Liu Mumu shook her head.

    "I seek revenge, and I cannot wait a moment longer," Yun Xiao responded, shaking his head.

    "You''re not Lu Yao!" Liu Mumu said sternly.

    Yun Xiao didn''t answer at first; he silently donned his Arbiter armor.

    d in this tinum armor, his already striking youthful beauty gained an added air of heroic grace, making him look as though he were a perfectly sculpted celestial warrior!

    Adorned in tinum armor, and wearing armored boots, Yun Xiao transformed into an Immortal warrior!

    After adjusting his attire, he looked towards Liu Mumu and dered, "Master, standing before you now is a Rank 9 Arbiter Initiate of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, a descendant of the martyred Arbiters of Sky Soaring City, the youth whose dreams persist ten yearster, Lu Yao!"

 Chapter 521: I Will Never Love You Again!

    Chapter 521: I Will Never Love You Again!

    That night descended with a cloak of darkness. Yet, themotion from the disappearance of Lu Xiaolu earlier in the day still persisted within the Lu family estate. Alone in tranquility stood the courtyard of Arbiter Lu, a haven of serenity and warmth.

    Around a modest hearth, three figures gathered for another evening meal. Having returned from the day''s end, Miss Yu bustled about, her face alight with an unceasing smile. As the night deepened, she indulged in a rare sip of wine, mumbling wishfully, "On such a splendid day, if only your big brother were here."

    "Where has that brother of yours gone?" Her words trailed off as she slipped into a wine-softened slumber, still smiling, a peace unknown before cradling her features.

    Yun Xiao escorted her to her room, then returned to the courtyard. There, d in celestial armor, he caught the gaze of a youngdy in a white dress, her cheeks flushed with a sweet drunkenness, adoringly staring at him.

    "Yun Xiao, you look so handsome in your armor," Lian Xi murmured with a giggle.

    Having worn his armor since leaving the Skyruler Immortal Manor, Yun Xiao had forgotten to remove it. The townsfolk had addressed him with reverence, a detail Miss Yu greatly enjoyed.

    "A lifetime might be lived for just one day, and today was worth a lifetime for her," Yun Xiao thought as she now slept.

    Removing his armor, Yun Xiao proposed another drink to Lian Xi, who declined with a tipsy murmur. Sitting beside her, he pulled from his Bag of Holding a sk of liquor.

    "Is that Tiger Rod Wine?" Lian Xi asked, her delicate nose twitching, her expression slightly uneasy."It''s from the Primordial Ruins," Yun Xiao replied with a chuckle, popping open the sk and cing it in her delicate hands. "Today marks my official day as a Heavenly Officer. We''re now people with status in the Celestial Court. Join me in celebrating a bit more."

    "It''s just a formal title; you don''t really care about that," Lian Xi pouted, then yfully used, "I still have no official status, hidden away in your golden house each day."

    "Soon," Yun Xiao assured, clinking his sk against hers, smiling softly. "Lian Xi, here we are, strangers in a foreignnd, bearing the silent burden of our crumbling homnd. Atst, we''ve made some progress. Let''s toast to that."

    Having be an Arbiter, at the very least, Yun Xiao couldmandeer the Skyruler Sword Vessel to traverse the Great Dao Celestial Realm and stealthily make a return to the myriad worlds.

    This was the first step in securing the Boundary Stabilizing Divine Needle!

    "Uh-huh!" Under the flickering firelight, Lian Xi''s face glowed with a crystalline sheen as she and Yun Xiao finished off a sk. Her beautiful eyes grew misty, her lips curled into a dazed smile, lending her an air of delightful foolishness.

    "Drink some more." Yun Xiao watched her with warm eyes, presenting sk after sk of Tiger Rod Wine.

    "Keep drinking."

    As the night deepened, the candles in the courtyard burned ever brighter.

    "I can''t drink anymore." Lian Xi nestled into his embrace, humming softly, her body and cheeks radiating heat.

    "A sk of wine on the celestial path, mortal realms apany the intimate soul," Yun Xiao whispered, brushing the stray hairs from her face, "In such a splendid moment, with a beauty in arms, dare you indulge further?"

    "No more..." After these words, Lian Xi wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her cheek against his stomach, and drifted off to sleep.

    She slept sweetly for a short while, her lips curled in a smile, fingers tightly clutching Yun Xiao''s white robe,ughing sweetly in her dreams.

    Yun Xiao watched her, his gazeden with an unprecedented solemnity.

    Within that solemnity was a heart-wrenching struggle.

    "You said if not now, then never again," Blue Star murmured softly.

    "..." Yun Xiao closed his eyes. In the darkness before him, the vision of a white-d figure on the dragon throne crashed into his mind.

    With a thrust of his sword, he had pierced her heart! As she struggled, her dimming eyes looked at him and asked, "Will we meet again?"

    It was the feeling of a heart breaking.

    Every time he remembered, Yun Xiao''s heart filled with endless regret and reluctance.

    "They must be the same..."

    With that resolve, Yun Xiao took a deep breath.

    Where was the next incarnation of transcending cmity? He did not know. Perhaps he might never encounter it again. Even if he did, what if she were another Lian Xi? How could he bear to part them? Indecision brought chaos.

    Amidst the dark night, Yun Xiao''s inner turmoil roiled like fierce mes.

    "Let''s do it," he decided.

    At once, Yun Xiao reached out and plucked the tiny white tiger from Lian Xi''s arms.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "What are you trying!?" Pomelo demanded with wide eyes.

    "Let these two brothers take you out for some fun," Yun Xiao replied as he set it before a small dark beast.

    The dark beast extended a paw and embraced the little white tiger.

    Red Moon opened its gaping maw and chuckled, "Don''t be scared, little sister, brother will take you fishing."

    "Catch your father, you fool!" The little white tiger shot back a re, secretly delighted. The third time had finallye.

    It was wise beyond its years. With a flick of its tail, it knocked the dark beast aside and ran off.

    "The night is dark and the wind is high!" Blue Star called out eerily, then vanished into the night.

    Now only Yun Xiao and Lian Xi remained in the courtyard.

    "Lian Xi, I''ve always hoped, whether as Chen Xi or Lian Xi, that it''s truly you, so..."

    Without risk, there would never be answers!

    Yun Xiao chose not to look at her endearingly simple face. Heid out three items on the table¡ªa translucent, razor-sharp magic dagger, a crystal-clear transcending cmity crystal, and a vial of Jade Condensing Celestial Ointment purchased in Sky Soaring City.

    With the Jade Condensing Celestial Ointment at hand, if Yun Xiao were to inflict but a shallow wound upon her heart, her martial vitality would need only a few days of rest to fully recover.

    Such were the benefits of operating within the Celestial Court. Here, life-saving treasures were plentiful! After arranging these items, though Yun Xiao''s eyes flickered in the dark, they were filled predominantly with a resolute obsession.

    Yun Xiao held Lian Xi close, his hand gripping the magical dagger, poised over her heart as he sought a spot where he could strike without causing harm through the pulsing of her blood.

    This was the hardest action Yun Xiao had ever taken in his life; his hands trembled. Because Lian Xi trusted him sopletely, sleeping so peacefully and sweetly in his arms.

    The de slid over her heart! Sweat beaded finely on his forehead. He closed his eyes, envisioning Chen Xi''s spirit severed atop the dragon throne. When he opened them again, he saw the young woman dreaming sweetly in his arms.

    He gambled this time, hoping to have both¡ªthe ideal and the real. Was it possible to have it all, to sacrifice one for the other, or to end up with nothing at all? Without making the cut, there would never be an answer!

    "I''m sorry!" Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes trembled tremendously, his lips parted slightly, veins bulging on his hands. As his mind was engulfed in a fiery haze, his de delicately pricked and sliced into the tender flesh of Lian Xi¡¯s heart.

    "Ah!" Lian Xi jolted awake from her drunken dream, trembling all over. She opened her eyes to see the man who held her, staring nkly as the knife pierced her heart.

    "Yun Xiao..." Lian Xi shook in pain, thinking it a terrible nightmare, hurriedly closing her eyes in hopes of waking from the horror.

    For Yun Xiao, the moment was utterly nerve-racking. He did not understand their fate¡ªwhy, despite their love, despite being seen as a perfect couple, they had toe to this point of conflict.

    "Quick! Quick!"

    Amidst immense pain, a remaining shred of consciousness urged him on!

    In that moment, Yun Xiao held his breath, his eyes wide as he swiftly withdrew the de and threw it aside. He then seized the transcending cmity crystal, pressing it violently into the wound.

    Almost instantly, he grabbed the Jade Condensing Celestial Ointment with his other hand, dripping it onto the bloody wound. The ointment flowed like a green spring into her heart, sealing the breach and nourishing the flesh to regenerate.

    Throughout the ordeal, Yun Xiao''s breath halted, and under severe emotional strain, he executed everything swiftly and fluidly.

    As the Jade Condensing Celestial Ointment took effect, he felt as if waking from a profound dream, drained and pale, breathing heavily.

    "Yun Xiao, it hurts so much!" Lian Xi opened her eyes again, her gaze incredulous yet immensely vulnerable, tears streaming.

    "It''s alright now! It''s alright... I''m sorry. I''m sorry!" Yun Xiao hurriedly held her close, very tightly, as if trying to meld her into himself.

    "Why...?" Lian Xi''s face was a mask of bewilderment. She realized now, this was no dream, but harsh reality.

    "I just wanted to have you forever," Yun Xiao''s voice shook as he spoke.

    "Forever... seems there is no forever anymore." Lian Xi''s eyes, filled with pain and confusion, slowly dropped her grip on Yun Xiao''s robe.

    "No, no, no¡­!" Yun Xiao felt her life force ebbing away, as if his organs were being shredded by thousands of knives. His eyes turned blood red as he grasped her shoulders.

    He didn''t understand the changes urring within her. But she couldn''t die...

    With a sudden gasp, as her eyelids drooped, Lian Xi''s eyes snapped open, fixing Yun Xiao with a deathly stare. Her lips parted, and with a voice of thundering rage, she cried out, "Primordial Mother of the Dao, savior of the suffering, dispeller of cmity, protector of the Dao in the human world!"

    She chanted these words eight times! With each repetition, her gaze grew fiercer by degrees, and her life force began to return, bolstered by an invisible primordial force gathering around her.

    "She''s not dead, she''s not dead!" Yun Xiao''s tense heart finally rxed, overwhelmed by relief.

    He embraced Lian Xi tightly, his voice choked with emotion.

    Just then, Lian Xi''s gaze, at times confused, at times resolute, suddenly trembled.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Her eyes transformed into two white vortexes!

    One vortex spun outward, the other inward, both eerily unsettling¡ªone seeming to be the origin of the world, the other its end!

    From these swirling forces, a vast power erupted, sting Yun Xiao away.

    <em>BOOM! </em>She rose into the air, her white dress fluttering as if floating, while Yun Xiao crashed to the ground.

    "Lian Xi, you''re not..."

    "Yun Xiao!" She cut him off mid-sentence with a voice of utter resolve, "I will never love you again!"

    "What¡­!?" Yun Xiao stared at her, dumbstruck.

    "Let''s never meet again!" The girl in the white dress uttered these words, a white storm swirling around her as she prepared to ascend into the sky.

    "Wait!" Yun Xiao took a deep breath, his lips quivering, "Who are you now? Chen Xi or Lian Xi?"

    The girl in the white dress paused in mid-air, then turned to look at him calmly, "From the Forbidden Tower to this Sky Soaring City in the Celestial Court, I have always had but one name."

    With that, she no longer lingered. Her dress swirling, she shot upwards into the sky.

 Chapter 522: Rebirth of Divine Dawn

    Chapter 522: Rebirth of Divine Dawn

    At that moment, Lian Xi was without a mask!

    "Try not to stand out too much..." Yun Xiao had barely shouted these words when suddenly, two zing white stars appeared out of nowhere above Sky Soaring City!

    One starrger, the other smaller, their emergence instantly lit up the dark world, turning the whole city into daylight, even brighter than the day itself!

    It was as if two Celestial Sourcecores of immense power had appeared in the sky!

    This sudden change naturally startled everyone in Sky Soaring City. In an instant, the usually quiet city became noisy. Countless people came out of their houses, looking up at the sky!

    Right above the two zing stars was the very mansion of Sky Soaring City that now buzzed with voices, a short burst of chaos ensuing.

    "What is that?"

    Everyone''s eyes widened, struggling to keep their gaze fixed on the celestial stars.

    Soon, cries of astonishment rang out."These are the Primordial Doom Stars!"

    In no time at all, the words Primordial Doom Stars swept through the city, and Yun Xiao heard them clearly. He also saw that the girl in the white dress paid him no more heed, instead soaring towards those two zing stars!

    "These are not Celestial Sourcecores, but divine artifacts?"

    Such a sudden and dramatic change was beyond Yun Xiao''s expectations.

    Why would such terrifying divine artifacts descend here?

    Yun Xiao was still puzzled when a wave of exmations crashed over the city.

    "Didn''t the Seventh Princess die? How could her bonded celestial treasure descend upon Sky Soaring City!"

    "I don''t know!"

    "Look, from the direction of the mansion, someone is flying towards the Primordial Doom Stars!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In no time, many of Sky Soaring City''s inhabitants saw that streak of a white silhouette!

    "Who dares so boldly?" From the direction of the manor, a figure of a man shot into the sky, pursuing the white-dressed girl, and shouted, "The arrival of the Seventh Princess''s celestial treasure is not for the likes ofmon folk to approach!"

    This man was none other than Lord Lu!! His appearance, indeed intimidating, managed to frighten many, but the crowd saw the girl in the white dress as if deaf to his threats still charging towards the zing Primordial Doom Stars!

    "Insolence!" Lord Lu bellowed deeply, stretching forth his hand from nowhere, and before his eyes, a hundred-meter-long astral arm formed, its hand wide enough to blot out the sky, reaching for the girl in the white dress!

    A collective gasp rose from the crowd.

    In that sh of lightning, the Primordial Doom Stars above suddenly descended, the two giant white stars rapidly orbiting the girl in white!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The astral arm from Lord Lu struck the Primordial Doom Star, exploding on impact, disintegrating into dust.

    "How is this possible?" Lord Lu looked on in disbelief.

    Why would the Primordial Doom Stars protect this girl?

    Amid this fierce brilliance, the girl in white, surrounded by the twin stars, suddenly turned, her gaze cold as she looked back at Lord Lu.

    When her face appeared before him, it struck him like lightning, shaking him to the core!

    His face turned ashen, his eyes wide with shock, as he hastily knelt in mid-air, bowing deeply and cried out, "This lowly Immortal did not recognize the arrival of Divine Dawn, and fears he may have offended. Please, forgive my ignorance!"

    His panicked plea, in this deathly quiet moment, spread throughout Sky Soaring City.

    "The Seventh Princess, Divine Dawn!"

    After a brief silence, earth-shattering cries of astonishment swept through Sky Soaring City.

    They all saw it! It was truly her! But... just yesterday, the Celestial Court had dered her demise! They had even issued a decree to pursue her killer! All of the Great Dao Celestial Realm had mourned for her yesterday. How was she alive tonight? Almost no one knew why!

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>Throughout Sky Soaring City, amidst shock and confusion, all the citizens knelt down, joining Lord Lu in worshiping Divine Dawn.

    Suddenly, a deration of authority spread far and wide.

    "Heaven''s way crumbles, themon folk suffer, the vermin never die, Divine Dawn does not perish." Following this promation, the zing stars in the sky abruptly extinguished, and Sky Soaring City once again fell into the consuming darkness of the night.

    The people were stunned into silence, slowly lifting their heads.

    "Divine Dawn, she''s gone!"

    "What did her words mean..."

    In the darkness of the night, the hearts of the people of Sky Soaring City were troubled for a long time. Even more troubled was Yun Xiao.

    "From the Forbidden Tower to Sky Soaring City, she has but one name..."

    What was that name? Undoubtedly, it was Divine Dawn. She was the Empress known as Divine Dawn. She was also a young princess of the Martial Emperor n surnamed <em>Divine</em>. Perhaps, she was also the fallen Seventh Princess.

    "Is that what it means?" Yun Xiao hoped it was so. Because that would mean they were one and the same, they were both still here!

    "But it seems she was disappointed in me, perhaps all that has transpired was because of my appearance, because I was too heartless..."

    And so, she had left him.

    Yun Xiao sat down slowly in the courtyard, his heart restless for a long time. All of Sky Soaring City was in turmoil, much like his own heart.

    At some point, the little ck beast jumped onto the table before him, rolling its eyes.

    "Where''s the little white tiger?" asked Yun Xiao.

    "Of course it ran off," replied Blue Star with a shrug, "Those two big stars are probably a Pomelo too, that old hag always leaves treasures everywhere, it''s like she''s running a white tiger zoo!"

    "What on earth is going on!" Yun Xiao eximed, clutching his hair in utter dismay.

    "You''ve predicted correctly, and you''re about to strike it rich," Blue Star chuckled.

    "What?" Yun Xiao was momentarily stunned, then he grabbed Blue Star by the throat and demanded, "You''re not joking, are you?"

    "Joking? As if!" Blue Star rolled his eyes. "She already gave you a huge clue. From the Forbidden Tower to the Celestial Court¡­ who was the saintess of the Forbidden Tower? It means at least Chen Xi has returned!"

    "And what about Lian Xi?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "She''s there too," Blue Star replied.

    "How can she leave me if she''s so attached to me?" Yun Xiao was puzzled.

    "It''s precisely because she left you that it confirms Lian Xi is definitely here," Blue Star raised an eyebrow.

    "Why?"

    "She trusted you so much. Yet, you stabbed her right in the heart with a dagger. How could she not be mad? Especially since it was for another her! Wouldn''t you be angry if it were you?" Blue Starughed.

    "..." Yun Xiao was utterly bewildered.

    "That works?" His chaotic heart finally found some peace. "So, the gamble... it really seeded?"

    "Maybe the Seventh Princess of the Celestial Court also dreamt about you, so unexpectedly, her deceased spirit was also brought along. Her spirit must be in those two white stars. Her coldness towards you, it could even be because the three have merged into one," Blue Star exined.

    Yun Xiao didn''t know what to say. After a long moment, he eximed in awe, "That''s incredible..."

    "It proves you did the right thing," Blue Star said nonchntly.

    "How so?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Divine Dawn of the Celestial Court is dead, obviously her attempt to transcend cmity failed miserably, resulting in her restless spirit. If it weren''t for you bringing Lian Xi across the only way up, this ce would''ve been beyond redemption. Now... there''s hope again. Not only here, but also for your mortal realm," Blue Star exined.

    "Would you look at that," Yun Xiao said, his voice hollow with disbelief. He hadn''t anticipated that his actions would trigger such a series of unforeseen events.

    "By the way, she won''t go back and report me to the Primordial Immortal Ancestor, will she?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "With the cmities of the Celestial Court still unresolved, why would she, who has barely reincarnated as an incarnation of transcending cmity, wish to die?" Blue Star retorted.

    "True... The only bad news is, it seems she''se to hate me," Yun Xiao said, massaging his head, feeling a real headacheing on.

    Just an hour ago, Lian Xi was still doting on him, utterly smitten. And now, she had dered, "I will never love you again!"

    Who could endure such a shift?

    As he worried, Blue Star rolled his eyes and said, "Oh, stop it. Your love and hate drama tires me. One moment it¡¯s all sweet nothings, the next it¡¯s bitter quarrels. In the end, you''ll end up together anyway."

    "This time it''s reallyplicated," Yun Xiao shook his head. He could feel her disappointment in him. It was severe! This was a big problem.

    "By the way, why did you just say I''m going to strike it rich?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I know why!" Red Moon grinned, saying, "She has those two stars and the resources from the Seventh Princess. Her cultivation is bound to skyrocket soon, and don¡¯t forget, your third session hasn''t happened yet, has it?"

    "..." Yun Xiao fell silent.

    Blue Star let out a slyugh. "She hates you, right? When the timees, she''ll definitely take her revenge on you."

    "Shut up," Yun Xiao bit his lip, "I can¡¯t wrong her anymore."

    Blue Star chuckled. "When the timees, it won¡¯t be up to you."

 Chapter 523: One Man Ascending the Heavens, Opening a Path Through the Starry Night!

    Chapter 523: One Man Ascending the Heavens, Opening a Path Through the Starry Night!

    Themotion of Divine Dawn''s rebirth was so great that even Miss Yu was roused from her sleep. She stepped out of her room, sensing only Yun Xiao¡¯s presence, and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Lil Xi?¡±

    Yun Xiao replied with a helpless tone, ¡°Mother, my wife has run away.¡±

    ¡°Run away?¡± Miss Yu staggered, nearly falling to the ground, her face a mask of confusion. ¡°On the grand day of you bing an Arbiter, how could she run off? I was thinking when your big brother returns, we¡¯d throw you a wedding.¡±

    ¡°It was my fault; I angered her, made her sad,¡± Yun Xiao said,ing to steady Miss Yu, then added, ¡°But it''s alright. We love each other. Once she cools off, she¡¯ll speak to me again.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good, then,¡± Miss Yu said, settling onto a stone bench in the courtyard. She lowered her voice, ¡°Lil Yao, I still haven''t asked you yet¡ªwhat¡¯s Lil Xi¡¯s family background?¡±

    ¡°Does background matter when our hearts are aligned?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    Miss Yu shook her head. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it that way. I just want to know a bit about her family¡ªwho they are, what they do, if they agree with your union. Should you need my help, I¡¯d be ready.¡±

    ¡°Her background,¡± Yun Xiao murmured, looking in the direction she¡¯d left, ¡°after tonight, will be of the highest in the Celestial Court.¡±

    ¡°The highest? Don¡¯t speak nonsense,¡± Miss Yu scolded, her face stern. Liu Mumu had already been a great pressure for her; could her younger son¡¯s situation be even more so?The events of the night added to Yun Xiao¡¯s burdens¡ªa pressure not only from Divine Dawn but from the entire Celestial Court and the looming destruction of the myriad worlds.

    ¡°Mother, I''m going to cultivate,¡± Yun Xiao announced. After bing an Arbiter, the issue of his status was resolved for the time being. Now, he had to focus on getting stronger for the challenges thaty ahead.

    ¡°She¡¯s advancing too; I can¡¯t fall behind her!¡± Though the resources were not equal, Yun Xiao was confident.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Aste night set in, Sky Soaring City finally quieted. Yun Xiao secluded himself away to cultivate, and Miss Yu returned to her room.

    In the courtyard, several little celestial pigs, their eyes round and wide, were rooting around in the dirt.

    Suddenly, a pair of muddy iron boots stepped onto the courtyard soil.

    The celestial pigs, startled, squealed and scurried into a corner, huddling together, daring not to stir.

    In the night, the owner of the iron boots made his way, step by step, to stand before the Lu Family''s ancestral hall.

    This was a man in a yellow robe, a bearded drunkard! He staggered as he walked, his robe stained with spills of liquor, his face flushed red from drink.

    Between his beard and disheveled hair, a pair of dull, murky eyes were hidden.

    As he walked, his gaze swept over every corner of the courtyard¡ªthe vegetable garden, the seats, the pavilion¡ªwatching silently.

    A faint glimmer of light began to appear in his cloudy eyes.

    With a creak, he gently pushed open the grand doors of the ancestral hall and lurched inside, his murky eyes searching the tombstones.

    Finally, his gaze settled on a particr tomb que.

    ¡¸<em>Tomb of Rank 9, Lu Bufan</em>¡¹

    Below was also some smaller text.

    ¡¸<em>His beloved wife, Su Yu</em>¡¹

    The yellow-robed drunkard stared at the que, motionless for a long time, his face twitching slightly as a sardonic smile curled at the corners of his mouth.

    "Bufan, self-proimed extraordinary, yet as mundane as dust." The man shook his head with a bitterugh, reached out, and took the que into his hands, rubbing his fingers over the character <em>Bu</em> in the middle of <em>Lu Bufan.</em>

    After a few rubs, he abruptly stopped, his gaze intensifying. He returned the que, closed his eyes, and clenched his fist. "It''s all in the past, let not the heart wander needlessly."

    After speaking, he tilted his head back, took arge swig of liquor, then poured the rest of the golden jade wine from his sk onto the ground in front of the que.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>The golden jade wine formed a shallow golden puddle on the ground, like ayer of gold sand.

    After pouring, he raised his sk towards the que and said, "To you, Lu Bufan."

    With that, he smiled ruefully.

    "Who are you?" At the doorway, a woman in in clothes stood trembling, her hands on the doorframe, her eyes as vacant as charred wood, staring at the yellow-robed drunkard.

    The drunkard turned, his gaze calm, eyes like solid amber as he met the vacant gaze of Miss Yu.

    "Who are you, and why do you trespass in the Lu Family''s ancestral hall?" Miss Yu shook her head, tapping gently on the door frame, "Do not disturb the peace of a family of martyrs, please leave."

    Hearing this, the yellow-robed drunkard looked back at the other ques, his face twisting into a warped, ironic smile. Without another word, he turned and walked away.

    As he passed by Miss Yu at the doorway, the man in the yellow robe paused again to look at the woman in in clothes, her eyes as burnt and broken as charcoal.

    "Please leave!" Miss Yu said sternly.

    The yellow-robed drunkard pulled out another sk and tipped it back, taking arge gulp.

    Golden liquor sshed down, wetting his robe.

    He gritted his teeth and stepped forward, not looking back.

    After he left the tomb, Miss Yu hurried inside and found the tomb que of Lu Bufan. She clutched it to her chest, her tense expression finally rxing.

    "Bufan, it''s alright, it''s alright..." she hugged the que tightly, her charred eyes slowly moistening.

    Outside, the yellow-robed drunkard heard her words and shuddered.

    <em>SMACK! </em>He suddenly pped himself, his face twisting into a smile, then he hurried away.

    Just out of the courtyard, he nced to his left, where a young man in white leaned against the wall, his gaze cold as he asked, "What are you doing?"

    The yellow-robed drunkard looked him over and asked, "What''s your name?"

    Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow and responded coolly, "Lu Yao."

    "Lu Yao..." The drunkard''s murky gaze trembled slightly. He suddenlyughed. "Distance tests a horse''s strength; time reveals a person''s heart."

    With that, he soared into the sky, rising towards the boiling heavens.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s eyes widened. As the yellow-robed drunkard ascended, the dark night sky suddenly burst into a myriad of stars, the dense clusters parting ways around his flight.

    This dazzling disy of starlight shed momentarily, then vanished into the cosmos.

    By the time Yun Xiao realized what had happened, the sky was dark once more, a ck canopy stretched over the world, with no sign of the man or the river of stars.

    Just then, the little ck creature emerged from Yun Xiao''s embrace.

    Blue Star''s eyes widened, his fur bristling as he growled, "There¡¯s something strange about that fellow!"

    "What kind of strange?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "He''s carrying something with him!" Blue Star asserted confidently.

    "What does he carry?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "Something simr to the Divine Cosmic Sword and Cosmic Pagoda. A one-of-a-kind treasure, perhaps even more advanced!" Blue Star eximed, amazed.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao furrowed his brow. "Can you determine what it is?"

    "For now, all I can tell is that the soul power within it is extremely potent, likely a vessel for a soul," Blue Star exined.

    "A soul vessel?" Yun Xiao had little concept of what that entailed. He gazed in the direction the yellow-robed drunkard had left. "You mean, he''s very powerful?"

    "He could be ranked among the top ten in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, at least," Blue Star said casually.

    "What?" Yun Xiao was stunned. He knew how vast the Great Dao Celestial Realm was, how immense the gap between a Dao Immortal and a regr True Immortal.

    Such a vast Celestial Sourcecore was nurturing countless powerful immortals! And this yellow-robed drunkard was possibly among the top ten? Or even the top two?

    "Who exactly is he? Why would he enter the Lu Family''s tomb?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "Who knows!" Blue Star shrugged, then added, "But based on my judgment, his soul is in a state of extreme chaos, filled with too many distorted elements."

    "So, you''re saying he can pose a danger to me?" Yun Xiao asked coldly.

    "Yes. He''s extremely dangerous! A thousand times more dangerous than the Three Immortals," Blue Star assessed.

    "Alright, I have an idea now." Yun Xiao looked once more at the sky. Who was that man, really?

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above Sky Soaring City, the celestial fog in the dark sky was pitch ck. It was a world painted in ink. Through the swirling ck celestial fog, suddenly, the sound of dragon chants echoed!

    Seen amidst the rolling mist were nine golden dragons. With five ws on each arm, their golden scales shimmered beautifully. They were lined up side by side, swallowing clouds and breathing fog!

    These were no demons, but rather the most exalted of celestial beasts! Their divine might suppressed thend for miles, and where their golden light touched, it seemed as though golden mes were scorching the earth.

    Most striking of all, these nine golden dragons were wrapped in white-gold chains. These chains were tethered to a massive ck chariot.

    This chariot, floating amidst the dark mist, resembled a moving pce in the sky, embroidered with various dragon patterns, majestic and solemn.

    The chariot was constructed from primordial fragrant wood, resting on four wheels. Each wheel bore a golden lotus that, when the wheels turned, instantaneously illuminated the universe with myriad golden lotuses!

    The roaring of the nine dragons and the turning of the golden lotus wheels heralded the return of the chariot¡¯s master.

    Astride this chariot was that yellow-robed drunkard! Upon his arrival, his murky eyes shone with a nonchnt arrogance. He strode forward with amanding presence,ughing loudly as the doors of the chariot burst open.

    A melody of celestial music yed, and the air was thick with the scent of wine.

    Amidst a cloud of pink mist, a procession of young, heavenly maidens stepped out. They were delicate yet fiery, d only in light silks that made their graceful figures shimmer tantalizingly through the swirling fog.

    Their faces were noble and pure, like saviors from the clouds, but their movements and expressions revealed them as the enticing flowers at the side of the yellow-robed drunkard. Each nce and smile was beguiling and strikingly bold.

    They giggled, whispered, and hummed, clustering around the yellow-robed drunkard, who naturally reached out, embracing them while his hands, expert and yful, added to his beaming smile.

    "This is truly the life!" The yellow-robed drunkard''sughter provoked more giggles from the celestial maidens.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Together, they entered the spacious carriage. Inside, it was a feast of delicacies and fine wines¡ªa garden of earthly delights with only the yellow-robed drunkard as the sole male amidst countless beautiful fairies.

    <em>SLAM! </em>The carriage doors closed behind them, and from inside came sounds of indulgence, soft moans, and murmurs that never ceased.

 Chapter 524: The Greatest War God!

    Chapter 524: The Greatest War God!

    "ROAAAAR!" The nine golden dragons with five ws bellowed across the heavens, the carriage''s four golden lotus wheels radiating divine light for miles. Driven by the dragons, the chariot plunged into the vast clouds, departing from Sky Soaring City!

    At that moment, the city shook once more. Perhaps it was the liveliest night Sky Soaring City had ever seen!

    In the first half of the night, Divine Dawn was reborn here. In the second half, a chariot drawn by nine dragons dazzled the firmament!

    ¡°What is that in the sky?¡±

    Sky Soaring City was a fortress under the Celestial Court. Only the most extraordinary sights could shake its people. They looked up to see the nine dragons slicing through the clouds, tracing a golden lotus pattern across the sky.

    ¡°The Nine Dragons Agarwood Chariot!!¡± Many onlookers, almost instantly, recognized the name of the chariot.

    Such was its fame in the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    Those who traveled in such a chariot were surely of high status!

    For a time, Sky Soaring City buzzed with fervent discussion.¡°Isn¡¯t that the chariot of the Chaos Sovereign?¡±

    ¡°The Chaos Sovereign hase to Sky Soaring City too!¡±

    For a moment, the people even felt a glow on their faces.

    As the chariot dazzled, it was directly above the Lu Immortal Manor, igniting excitement there once more.

    ¡°What on earth is happening tonight? No sooner had the Seventh Princess been reborn here than the Chaos Sovereign¡¯s Nine Dragons Agarwood Chariot arrived?¡±

    ¡°Could he be here to protect the Seventh Princess?¡±

    Outside the Lu estate, the chatter was endless.

    Though Lu An''s family belonged to the Lu Immortal Manor, their dwelling was near those of the guards, maids, and servants.

    At times like these, this ce became even more bustling. The children were not sleeping that night; they gathered together, buzzing with excitement like they were on a sugar high.

    Yun Xiao stood to the side, pulling over a six-year-old girl named Ah Ji. This little girl, a daughter of an armored guard, often loved to sneak into Miss Yu''s house to y with the little celestial pigs.

    "Ah Ji, brother has some candy for you," Yun Xiao crouched down.

    "Really? Gimme the candy, Uncle!" Ah Ji hurried over.

    "Uncle...!? Cough. Alright!" Yun Xiao chuckled as he handed her some candy, then asked, "Do you really admire the Chaos Sovereign?"

    "Oh?" Ah Ji perked up, grabbing Yun Xiao''s arm, "Of course!"

    "Then tell uncle, how mighty is he?" Yun Xiao prompted.

    "You better listen well!" Ah Ji stood tall, her voice ringing with fervor, "Once upon a time, the Chaos Sovereign alone with his sword shattered the sky for 100,000 miles, ying demons, and their blood flowed like rivers! The Emperor himself bestowed upon him the name Chaos Sovereign. From a humble origin, he ascended to heaven in a single leap!"

    "And then?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Ah Ji, seeing she hadn''t stunned him, pressed on, "The Chaos Sovereign, in just 25 years, rose from the rank of Arbiter, establishing monumental feats for the Celestial Court. In 25 years, he broke all records, ascending directly to the rank of Rank 1 Heavenly Officer! Now, he stands as the number one sovereign of the Celestial Court''s Eight Great Sovereigns!"

    "Rank 1?" Yun Xiao knew this was the pinnacle for Heavenly Officers; any higher and one would be considered almost royal. He smirked, then asked, "Is he more powerful than the Emperor?"

    "That I don''t know! But he''s very, very strong! His official rank is Rank 1, but my father says he''s the Supreme Marshal of the Celestial Court''s army, hailed as the Greatest War God. The corpses of his defeated enemies could pile from our Sky Soaring City up to the stars!" Ah Ji boasted.

    "The Greatest War God?" Yun Xiao mused over this; his roots were humble, his rise meteoric, a span of 25 years to the top, a warrior beyondpare, a man of real power.

    In other words, a man of towering influence. But why would he visit the Lu Family''s ancestral tomb?

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath, casually asking, "Ah Ji, let uncle test you."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "If it''s about the Chaos Sovereign, I know everything!" Ah Ji dered proudly.

    "Alright, then tell me, what is the Chaos Sovereign''s real name?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Ah Jiughed, looking at Yun Xiao with disdain, "You dare ask something everyone knows?"

    Yun Xiao thought to himself, <em>If it weren¡¯t universally known, would I ask a six-year-old? </em>

    Everyone knew this; it wasmon knowledge!

    "So tell me then," Yun Xiao said.

    Ah Ji''s eyes sparkled with admiration as she clutched Yun Xiao''s sleeve. "The Chaos Sovereign, he''s actually rted to you, sharing your surname Lu!"

    "What''s his name?"

    "Just the single character Fan."

    Yun Xiao felt a stir within him. "Lu Fan?" He uttered the name, feeling its strangeness.

    "Shush!" Ah Ji nced nervously around. "Just keep it to yourself, okay? Don''t say it out loud. The Chaos Sovereign might just strike you with thunder, turning you into a celestial pig, ready for your mother to roast."

    "Right." Yun Xiao nodded, his expression bemused.

    "What are you thinking about? Is it your father, Lu Bufan?" Ah Ji looked at him squarely, her lips pursed. "Your dad has an extra <em>Bu</em> in his name, and that''s a whole lot different!"

    "Ha-ha." Yun Xiao pinched her mouth shut and popped a candy into it. "Eat up!"

    With that, he stood and returned to the courtyard. The yard was quiet. The moist soil bore a clear trail of iron-boot footprints.

    Yun Xiao walked past these prints, ncing into the tomb hall. There, a in-clothed woman was carefully wiping a tomb que with a cloth.

    Time had etched indelible marks upon her. She had aged, her hair streaked with white, wrinkles at the corners of her eyes.

    "Mother," Yun Xiao called out.

    "Lil Yao,¡± Miss Yu responded, then asked, "What is it?"

    "Do we have any portraits of my father? I''d like to see one," Yun Xiao said.

    "Uh." Miss Yu paused, setting down the tomb tablet, scratching her head. "I used to have one, even hung it here in the tomb hall, but..."

    "You took it down?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes." Miss Yu nodded.

    "Why is that?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    ¡°Um... people said, since Lu Bufan¡¯s name resembles that of the Chaos Sovereign, and he looks so much like him, we shouldn''t disy his portrait. We could cause a misunderstanding, and that would bring trouble,¡± Miss Yu said, rubbing her temples with a sigh.

    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Yun Xiao bit his lip, ¡°I want to see him.¡±

    ¡°Alright then!¡± Miss Yu crouched down and carefully extracted a box from beneath the desk in the tomb hall.

    The box was meticulously cleaned.

    She handed the box to Yun Xiao with a hint of regret, ¡°Go ahead, look. I can''t see it anymore.¡±

    Yun Xiao took the pristine box, looking down at Miss Yu for a long while. Under the flicker of candlelight, she looked somewhat worn. Still, she steadied the box with one hand, fearing it might fall.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to look?¡± Miss Yu asked.

    ¡°I will¡­¡± Yun Xiao opened the box and pulled out a scroll.

    The scroll depicted a valiant man d in neat Arbiter armor, his chin clean-shaven, his hair neatly arranged. Especially striking were his eyes, honest and bright. His smile was straightforward and sincere. But that face¡­ he had just seen it.

    ¡°Ah, you poor child, you were just two years old when your father died at the frontier¡­¡± Miss Yu shook her head, her voice tinged with sorrow.

    Now, Lu Yao was 27 years old. And that Greatest War God of the Celestial Court had risen to godhood in 25 years!

    Looking at the portrait, a wave of intense loathing surged within Yun Xiao, and he said coldly, ¡°He really should die, prospering like that, yet never saving you, not even once.¡±

    ¡°Lil Yao, who are you talking about¡­¡± Miss Yu paused, confused.

    ¡°Nothing.¡± Yun Xiao rolled up the portrait and ced it back in the box.

    After Miss Yu had returned the box, Yun Xiao suddenly grabbed her hand and stood at the doorway of the tomb hall.

    ¡°What is it, silly boy?¡± Miss Yu asked.

    Yun Xiao pointed towards a streak of light in the sky, saying, ¡°Mother, dawn is nearly upon us.¡±

 Chapter 525: Tri-Colored Heavenly Dao Sarira!

    Chapter 525: Tri-Colored Heavenly Dao Sarira!

    Dawn broke. The hemispherical veil of darkness sweptpletely over Sky Soaring City. Clouds and glimmers born from the Celestial Sourcecore once again enveloped this immense celestial city.

    The city¡¯s walls, rubble, and streets shone anew, enshrouded in a celestial mist.

    Today was Yun Xiao¡¯s official day to report to the Thunder Department at the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Early in the morning, he arrived outside the Manor. d in a resplendent suit of tinum armor, both majestic and solemn, his attire was a symbol of his status.

    Just yesterday, Yun Xiao had topped the leaderboards and publicly exposed the vile deedsmitted by Yuan Gang, which skyrocketed his fame. Everyone felt a sense of relief for this prodigal son who had returned after a decade.

    "Arbiter Lu!" As Yun Xiao walked through the streets, the citizens of Sky Soaring City affectionately called out to him.

    This identity came with a sense of duty to maintain order and protect the weak!

    Upon entering the Skyruler Immortal Manor, Yun Xiao first visited Liu Mumu at her Willow Leaf Residence.

    When Yun Xiao arrived, she was still in the courtyard, surrounded by the fiery energy of a Celestial Sourcecore as she practiced."Given your family''s special circumstances, I''ve requested the Manor to issue your celestial stipend for the year in advance," Liu Mumu said, pointing to a stone table. "It''s right there."

    "Thank you, Master." Yun Xiao walked over and saw 100 tinum Immortal Jades arrayed on the stone table. The quality of these Immortal Jades was exceptional; they were hot to the touch, each a mini repository of the power of a Celestial Sourcecore, gleaming brightly.

    Yun Xiao knew these to be top-grade Immortal Jades, also known as True Immortal Jades. Such jades could not form in the mortal realm of the myriad worlds without a Celestial Sourcecore.

    This was essentially the most widely used currency in the Celestial Court. The power within these Immortal Jades was something that both Blue Star and Red Moon could absorb. So, these 100 True Immortal Jades were useful to them.

    "A year''s stipend, just a hundred?" Blue Star said, somewhat speechless.

    "Stingy!" Red Moonined.

    "It''s actually quite generous," Yun Xiao replied as he gathered the Immortal Jades and ced them into his Bag of Holding.

    Red Moon moved with lightning speed, grabbed an Immortal Jade, and took a bite before nodding with satisfaction. "The vor''s definitely better; the mid-grade Immortal Jades in the mortal realm just can''tpare."

    Though both were called Immortal Jades, those of the mortal realm were merely infused with immortal energy, whereas these were of the Celestial Sourcecore¡ªa treasure of apletely different caliber.

    No amount of the former could possibly equate to thetter.

    Yun Xiao, currently in the Yang Immortal Realm, found the ck Heavenly Dao Sariras produced by the little ck beast of little use to him.

    The wealth he had seized from the Three Immortals had been partly returned to Shen Cang and Dean Yu for the reconstruction of the Primordial Ruins, while another portion had bolstered the foundational powers of Blue Star and Red Moon.

    Now, these 100 True Immortal Jades had arrived, addressing Yun Xiao¡¯s urgent needs. But he knew it was far from enough.

    After Yun Xiao collected the stipend, Liu Mumu paused her cultivation and said, "Last night, there was quite a spectacle above your house."

    "Indeed, it was quite a sight." Yun Xiao nodded.

    Liu Mumu shifted the conversation, "As an Arbiter Initiate, you''ve been assigned to Lu Changfeng''s side. No need for me to remind you to tread carefully, right?"

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded again.

    "You''ve outmaneuvered Yuan Gang, and with the recent incidents during the Arbiter examination, expect many to target you," Liu Mumu said, her gaze intense as if trying to uncover some secret or hoping that Yun Xiao would confess something voluntarily.

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded again, seemingly with nothing more to say.

    His response left Liu Mumu somewhat helpless.

    "Report to Lu Changfeng''s Wind Squad at the Wind Pavilion," Liu Mumu instructed.

    "Alright."

    With that, Yun Xiao prepared to leave. After a few steps, he turned back to ask, "Master, how can I learn the celestial techniques of the Skyruler Immortal Manor?"

    "The mostmon ones, you can learn anytime at the Celestial Techniques Hall. For anything slightly more sophisticated, you must fulfill your duties as an Arbiter, undertake missions, umte merits, and trade those for rewards," Liu Mumu exined.

    This was no surprise to Yun Xiao. There were no free lunches in this world.

    Yun Xiao could only remark, "The Sword Ruins had the Sword Baptism Ceremony and the ancestral teachings about the Exiled Sword Immortal, allowing me to ascend swiftly. The Primordial Ruins had Dean Yu and half the Primordial Academy''s support when I first arrived, making my start smooth. But in this Great Dao Celestial Realm, I''m just a stowaway, unable to disy even my innate talents, truly penniless and powerless."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Things are getting worse?" Blue Star scoffed.

    Yun Xiao shook his head, stating coldly, "It''s only that therger the world, the more cruel and realistic it bes, and all the more intricatelyplex. The chances of ascending swiftly on the identity of an Exiled Sword Immortal will be hard toe by again."

    In the Primordial Ruins, Yun Xiao could not disy talents surpassing the eight Sword Rings of the Human Zenith Immortal.

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, it was bound to be even more brutal! A genius with a backing was called a prodigy. A genius without one was called a<em> missing person</em>.

    After parting with Liu Mumu, Yun Xiao officially reported to the Wind Pavilion, a mere branch where Lu Changfeng led his squad.

    Here, over 100 Arbiters were under Lu Changfeng''smand, most of whom were provisional Arbiters within their first five years at the Skyruler Immortal Manor. With their positions tentative, they could be dismissed at any moment.

    It was early morning, and the Arbiter responsible for recording information was Zhao Cheng, a young man with a somber demeanor.

    "Sword and sigil dual cultivation?" Zhao Cheng looked up doubtfully at Yun Xiao after reviewing the self-reported data, "Lu Yao, you know if this information is falsified, being exposed would be a serious offense."

    "I filled it out during the Arbiter examination," Yun Xiao said.

    "Alright." Zhao Cheng organized the documents and handed Yun Xiao some items, "Here are your cultivation room key and a brief on your department and teammates."

    "Thanks." Yun Xiao took them and turned to leave.

    "Wait." Zhao Cheng spread his hands, tapped the desk, and raised an eyebrow, "Hasn''t anyone told you the rules for neers?"

    "Not really." Yun Xiao smiled and strode off.

    Zhao Cheng''s face darkened as he watched him walk away, sneering, "Another fool who won¡¯tst long."

    The next provisional Arbiter in line hurried forward, sneakily cing three True Immortal Jades in Zhao Cheng¡¯s hand, and sheepishly said, "Take it easy, Zhao bro. Don''t mind the greenhorns."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Every Arbiter at the Skyruler Immortal Manor had their own private cultivation room.

    Though not as spacious as Liu Mumu''s Willow Leaf Residence, Yun Xiao''s room excelled in seclusion and privacy, suitable for long-term residence if he chose.

    Essentially, it was the Arbiter¡¯s dormitory. Though private, it wasn''t necessarily so.

    Yun Xiao had just entered when a cacophony erupted from next door¡ªa mix of men and women, neers, gathered together, chattering andughing, forging new connections.

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao shut his door firmly.

    The ceiling of his cultivation room was adorned with a swirling array, designed to continuously draw in energy from a Celestial Sourcecore to aid the Arbiter''s cultivation.

    "All consumed." Yun Xiao handed over his year''s stipend to the little ck beast, then settled himself cross-legged under the swirling array.

    "Divine Dawn, Lu Fan..."

    These two extraordinary entities seemed far removed from his current reality.

    Choosing to set aside thoughts of them, Yun Xiao focused on using his Arbiter identity to harness the resources of the Skyruler Immortal Manor to strengthen himself, aiming for the Boundary Defining Divine Needle!

    "My master is a Rank 8 Arbiter Commander, her brother Liu Chaochao is a Rank 7 Sky Protector, and Lord Lu is a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer... then, the Governor of Sky Soaring City must be Rank 5!"

    In the Celestial Court, Rank 5 was considered among the top tier of Heavenly Officers.

    Furthermore, the rank of a Heavenly Officer indicated their administrative level, not necessarily theirbat prowess.

    "Cultivate!" Yun Xiao was still an Early Yang Immortal, and his immediate goal was to achieve true immortality in the shortest possible time.

    His true body, body double, and blood ve were all at a critical juncture in their paths to immortality.

    The growth of his Dao Heart was crucial!

    Lately, the things Yun Xiao had seen and heard were shockingly profound, rapidly advancing the growth of his Dao Heart, even as thecking Heavenly Dao Sariras slowed his pace.

    He first absorbed the energy from the Celestial Sourcecore to boost his strength.

    Soon after, the little ck beast beside him retched and spat out a tricolored Heavenly Dao Sarira.

    This tricolored Heavenly Dao Sarira, adorned with red, green, and blue, shimmered with a misty radiance.

    "What is this called?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Tri-Heaven Sarira," Blue Star said weakly, groaning, "It''s disgusting, I nearly vomited up my stomach acid. You''d better eat it while it''s fresh!"

    "Almost brought up my poop with it!" Red Moon said with a mischievous grin.

    "..." Yun Xiao rolled his eyes, took the Tri-Heaven Sarira, and rinsed it thoroughly with clear water before swallowing it for refinement.

    Unexpectedly, this Heavenly Dao Sarira, refined using True Immortal Jades, proved significantly more potent. Inside Yun Xiao''s dantian, colors shimmered brilliantly. The tinum Sacred Wheel spun tumultuously, expanding continuously while his Worldly Dao Heart remained steadfast, effortlessly maintaining control over this surge of power.

    "I''m in the Late Yang Immortal Realm now!" Yun Xiao eximed. It was his third day in the Celestial Court. Compared to before, this progress wasn''t fast, but rtive to other Immortals, it was extraordinarily rapid.

    "In a couple days, I might reach the True Immortal Realm." Yun Xiao nced at Blue Star and Red Moon, "Pity, I''ve used up my year''s stipend. Looks like I need to find other ways to make money."

    "What''s the quickest way to make money?" Blue Star prompted gently.

    Yun Xiao pursed his lips, his gaze cold, "It''s all written in the Celestial Laws."

    Break one, vite one. The crux was that he now served as an Arbiter, a grassroots spokesperson for those veryws.

    Still, it was time to make money! The True Immortal Jades were spent, and staying in the cultivation room was pointless.

    Yun Xiao stood up, opened the stone door, and had only taken a few steps when a strikingly handsome soldier in tinum armor appeared from the corridor.

    It was Liu Chaochao, the Sky Protector.

    "Lu Yao,e with me," Liu Chaochao said, his expression unreadable.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao didn''t ask further and followed him.

    Several provisional Arbiters peered out from their nearby cultivation rooms, their expressions curious as they watched the scene unfold.

    Yun Xiao followed Liu Chaochao through the corridors of the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Eventually, they arrived at a somber ck pce known as the Guardian Hall.

    "Enter."

    Yun Xiao followed Liu Chaochao inside, and the massive doors of the Guardian Hall mmed shut behind them.

    He looked up to see two imposing figures seated high above, resembling towering mountains. One was Lord Lu, and the other was the Madame.

 Chapter 526: Anyone Else That Whines Will Answer to the Stick!

    Chapter 526: Anyone Else That Whines Will Answer to the Stick!

    "Lu Yao reporting in, Lord Lu," Yun Xiao said with a calm demeanor.

    Liu Chaochao stood by his side like a statue. "You needn''t be nervous. Lord Lu merely wishes to ask about the final challenge of the Arbiter examination in the ck Demon Cavern. All candidates have ended up here."

    "I understand," Yun Xiao nodded. He knew, and so did Lord Lu, that he was an impostor! And his daughter had just so happened to <em>disappear</em> in the ck Demon Cavern. If Lord Lu wasn''t suspicious, that would be the real surprise.

    In the deathly quiet hall, Lord Lu scanned Yun Xiao from top to bottom and said, "Ten years on, the prodigal son returns, having sessfully be an Arbiter. As the Manor Lord, I''ve forgotten to congratte your mother. If you have the time, convey my apologies."

    "You honor me too greatly, sir. My mother has been deeply worried since the incident with Xiaolu," Yun Xiao replied.

    "During your time in the ck Demon Cavern yesterday, did you see Xiaolu at any point?" the Madame asked.

    Yun Xiao shook his head, "No."

    "How did you survive being pushed into ava pit by Yuan Gang?" she pressed on.

    "My master gave me a protective garment, a robe of golden threads," Yun Xiao responded."Liu Mumu?" Liu Chaochao nced at Yun Xiao.

    "Yes," he nodded.

    "..." Lord Lu and the Madame exchanged a look. Then, Lord Lu waved his hand, "Liu Chaochao, see him out."

    "Yes," Liu Chaochao obeyed.

    "I shall take my leave then." Yun Xiao said. The two walked out of the Guardian Hall together.

    "Do you know your way back, or do you need me to escort you?" Liu Chaochao suddenly asked.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "I know the way," Yun Xiao said.

    "Good." Liu Chaochao pped him on the shoulder, his gaze suddenly turning icy, "A word of warning, keep yourself and your brother away from my sister."

    "On what grounds?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    "..." Liu Chaochao paused. He didn''t expect Yun Xiao to speak to him in that tone.

    "You ask me on what grounds?" Liu Chaochao shook his head, "You''re not very bright, are you?"

    With that, he walked off in another direction.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Guardian Hall, Lord Lu watched Yun Xiao''s departing figure and said icily, "I am 80% certain that Xiaolu was killed by that man."

    "Why wait then? Let¡¯s carve him up, let him die a death more gruesome than any other! Even if he has the support of the people, should we hesitate to kill a mere Arbiter?"

    The Madame''s face twisted fiercely as she clenched the armrest, her voice cold, "The people are driven by fleeting emotions, they forget quickly. There are many who disappear without cause, they¡¯ll forget him in a few days. Or perhaps you could stir up another conflict to divert their attention."

    "No," Lord Lu said, his head bowed, his gaze deep, "We can''t be too hasty. There''s something bigger at y here."

    "What do you mean?" The Madame frowned.

    "Don¡¯t you find it strange? Lu Yao has been presumed dead for ten years, with no one but his mother and brother caring about him. Suddenly, this impostor appears, with no background, yet dares to provoke me by targeting my daughter¡­" Lord Lu shook his head as he spoke.

    "You mean, someone might be setting a trap for you? Trying to use the incident from ten years ago to ensnare you step by step?" the Madame¡¯s face tightened.

    "If Governor Jiang gets promoted, I''m the next likely governor, but so is that person from the Liu Family! The Skyruler Immortal Manor is their turf¡­ Some blemishes, though minor, if magnified, can incite public outrage and affect decisions at critical moments," Lord Lu said coldly.

    "The Liu Family sent a greenhorn to mess with us?" The Madame¡¯s face turned ashen with rage, her chest heaving.

    "Exactly. If we act rashly now, the other side is surely ready with a counterstrike of public opinion," Lord Lu said impassively.

    "Xiaolu was taken from us too young, how can we swallow this loss?" the Madame said anxiously.

    "We certainly cannot swallow it!" Lord Lu raised his head to look at the Madame and dear wife, could you possibly use your family''s connections to pull some strings, to ask for something?"

    The Madame paused, then asked, "Are you talking about the Longevity Immortal from the Ascension Pool?"

    ¡°Yes! He¡¯s a master of breeding Gu,¡± Lord Lu leaned in, whispering, ¡°I want to ask him for a Truth Gu thatpels people to speak the truth. With it, we could break this situation wide open¡ªnot only avenge Xiaolu but also use this chance to topple the Liu Immortal Manor!¡±

    ¡°Gu Worms are priceless¡­ Moreover, the Longevity Immortal is a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court. Our connection is not that strong.¡± The Madame gritted her teeth.

    ¡°We have no choice. We¡¯ve got to use everything avable. You must go yourself,¡± Lord Lu grasped the Madame''s hand, his eyes burning with intensity. ¡°For Xiaolu.¡±

    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll take care of it,¡± the Madame said, standing up and slipping away quietly.

    Lord Lu leaned back in his chair, shrugged his shoulders slightly, and a sly, cold smile crept over his lips.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Yun Xiao had just returned to the Wind Pavilion when he was greeted at the door by an Arbiter. ¡°Lu Yao, Deputy Changfeng is looking for you.¡±

    ¡°Where is he?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    Now, Lu Changfeng was his direct superior.

    Although everyone here was a Rank 9 Arbiter, within this rank, there were still distinctions in positions. For instance, Lu Changfeng, as the leader of the Wind Pavilion,manded over 100 Arbiters and was also the deputy to the formermander, Yuan Gang.

    And Yun Xiao was merely the most junior Arbiter Initiate.

    ¡°In your cultivation room!¡± the Arbiter replied.

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    Upon returning, Yun Xiao indeed found the door to his cultivation room wide open. He entered and saw not just Lu Changfeng inside, but four others.

    Having briefly reviewed the files of other Arbiters at the Wind Pavilion before, Yun Xiao recognized these individuals.

    All four wore tinum armor, indistinguishable in their garb, differentiated only by stature and gender.

    The tallest and most imposing of them was Zhao Cheng, who had been an Arbiter for five years and had just been confirmed in his position yesterday. He was now an official Arbiter.

    The other three, like Yun Xiao, were still Arbiter Initiates. They had been at the Skyruler Immortal Manor longer than Yun Xiao, the shortest tenure among them being two years.

    Apart from Zhao Cheng, the other three were Chi Yu, Gu Yuan, and Sun Xiaoqi.

    Chi Yu and Gu Yuan appeared to be a couple, lovers who had already officially married. They were a striking pair, a handsome man and a beautiful woman, true partners ordained by the heavens.

    Sun Xiaoqi, the most junior apart from Yun Xiao, was a girl whose chubby cheeks beneath her Arbiter armor made her look somewhat na?ve and endearing.

    "Is everyone here?" Lu Changfeng motioned to Yun Xiao, "Come here, there¡¯s a mission!"

    Yun Xiao stepped forward.

    Lu Changfeng spoke solemnly, "We''ve received a report. Within the jurisdiction of Sky Soaring City, a small settlement called Sangju City has witnessed a series of murders. Nine people have been killed in just three days, all in the same manner. The local authorities are out of their depth, so the Skyruler Immortal Manor has formed a special unit. I''m in charge of the investigation, and you five will form a team and act immediately under mymand."

    Investigating murders?

    For Yun Xiao, who was devoted to his cultivation, this was an intriguing diversion.

    However, he knew that being pulled into a major case so soon after joining had to have some hidden motives.

    Sure enough, Lu Changfeng said, "I''ll mainly handle the coordination with Sangju City, and the five of you will conduct the investigation."

    After this, he looked at Yun Xiao and said, "Lu Yao, you will lead the team. If you solve the case, you¡¯ll earn the most merit. Seize this opportunity well!"

    As soon as he finished, Zhao Cheng said incredulously, "Deputy Changfeng, I object! I''ve worked hard for five years and just got confirmed. Why should I take orders from him?"

    Lu Changfeng put his arm around Yun Xiao¡¯s shoulder and said, "Because he''s a brother of the Lu Family, and because he topped the leaderboards in the recent Arbiter examination!"

    Zhao Cheng clenched his fists, swallowing his resentment.

    "Having an Arbiter Initiate as a leader when there''s an official Arbiter in the group, there''s no precedent for this!" Chi Yu said.

    "Shut up!" Lu Changfeng red at them. "Anyone else wants to whine, they''ll answer to the stick!"

    With those words, they had no choice but to bow their heads.

    "Hurry up! Take the Skyruler Sword Vessels, and depart immediately!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Shut up!" Lu Changfeng red at them. "Anyone else wants to whine, they''ll answer to the stick!"</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 527: Sangju City Murder Case!

    Chapter 527: Sangju City Murder Case!

    On the road to the entrance of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, Zhao Cheng and the three other Arbiters gathered around Lu Changfeng, while Yun Xiao silently followed behind.

    The female Arbiter named Gu Yuan suddenly spoke, "Deputy Changfeng, although thew forbids it, homicides in the Celestial Realm are butmon urrences, with enmity andpetition frequent among Immortals¡­"

    "What are you trying to say?" Lu Changfeng responded coolly.

    Gu Yuan slightly bowed her head and said, "This murder case in Sky Soaring City, why are we being assigned to such a remote task?"

    The Great Dao Celestial Realm had the most stringent rules of the ces Yun Xiao had been to so far on his cultivation journey. Here, even murder was constrained by heavenly decrees, while elsewhere, killings were rampant.

    Logically speaking, the most difficult thing on the path to immortality was strife andpetition. So, thews of the Great Dao Celestial Realm should herald a prosperous and peaceful era.

    What Yun Xiao witnessed from the citizens of Sky Soaring City somewhat confirmed this,

    Yet, the Ascension Pool revealed a world beneath, swirling with dark currents.

    Gu Yuan''s doubts seemed to mirror those of the other Arbiters.Lu Changfeng scoffed, "The murder case in Sangju City is not like any other."

    "What''s so special about it?" Zhao Cheng asked attentively.

    Lu Changfeng exined, "The perpetrator not only killed but hung the bodies of nine victims on the town gates to intimidate the town mayor, making it widely known. This is an overt challenge to the Celestial Court''s authority! If unaddressed, it would tarnish the Skyruler Immortal Manor¡¯s reputation."

    "I see!" The Arbiters nodded in understanding.

    Murder was one thing, but creating such a spectacle and challenging the celestialws?

    Indeed, it would be impossible to face the people of Sangju City without taking action.

    Eventually, the group of six left the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    "Take the Skyruler Sword Vessels; we''ll reach Sangju City in about half an hour. Be careful not to mishandle the Celestial Sourcecores of the sword vessels!"

    Lu Changfeng¡¯s final warning was directed at Yun Xiao, who, in his eyes, was the novice among them in using the Skyruler Sword Vessels.

    Of course, no one had instructed him on how to ride one either.

    "Yes, Deputy Changfeng." The Arbiters each entered a Skyruler Sword Vessel.

    These vessels were limited in number, not readily avable to everyone; special authorization was needed for their use.

    Clearly, Lu Changfeng had already secured permission.

    Yun Xiao also boarded a Skyruler Sword Vessel, closed the door, activated the force of the Celestial Sourcecore, and set the array in motion.

    Roaring to life, six Skyruler Sword Vessels ascended, then pivoted northward, their sword tips pointing ahead.

    "Let''s go!"

    With a thunderous roar, the Skyruler Sword Vessel shed and vanished above Sky Soaring City.

    Yun Xiaoy prone inside the sword vessels, gazing down at the vast clouds of the Great Dao Celestial Realm. As the boat sped on, he saw heavenly pces of the Celestial Court,rge and small, streaking beneath them.

    The more he passed over Sky Soaring City, the more prosperous the region appeared.

    About 15 minutester, and the poption below thinned, the energy from the celestial mist grew sparse.

    "We''re here!" After half an hour, the Skyruler Sword Vessels began to slow until a small, exquisitely detailed city emerged from the mist, whereupon it thunderously descended.

    Yun Xiao looked out and saw that, though small, this town resembled the Primordial Ruins, a divine ark floating within the air.

    "It appears cities of this scale are countless in the Celestial Court."

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Their six Skyruler Sword Vesselsnded before the city gates.

    The gates, framed by three stone pirs¡ªtwo vertical and one horizontal¡ªwere imposing and indeed well-suited for disying bodies. But by then, the gates had been cleaned.

    The Arbiters wereing; it wouldn''t do to keep the bodies hanging.

    <em>CLANK! </em>The doors of their sword vessels swung open simultaneously, and six figures in Arbiter armor stepped out.

    Next to Yun Xiao, the girl named Sun Xiaoqi nced at him and timidly asked, "Lu Yao, how does it feel to investigate a case as an Arbiter for the first time? Nervous?"

    Yun Xiao looked seriously at the gate and responded, "I only wish to capture the true criminal swiftly, to uphold the celestialws."

    "So mission-driven?" Sun Xiaoqi stuck out her tongue yfully.

    "Of course, and to earn merits and rewards for cultivating Immortal techniques," Yun Xiao added honestly.

    "Mhm, killing two birds with one stone," Sun Xiaoqi said.

    "Quiet, keep up!" Zhao Cheng suddenly turned and red at them.

    Startled, Sun Xiaoqi quickly lowered her head, no longer daring to draw near Yun Xiao.

    Ahead, the reception party of Sangju City approached respectfully, consisting of about a dozen true immortals.

    Judging by their attire, they were surely the top figures of this small city.

    Leading them was a woman in a wide floral robe embroidered with mulberry trees and chrysanthemums. Her beauty was striking, with a high nose and curved eyes, her hair swept up high, adorned with a sparkling hairpin, giving her an air of cleanliness, dignity, and propriety.

    Still, it was evident that beneath her floral robe, her figure was exceptional.

    "Wee, Young Master and distinguished Arbiters! My name is Lu Quian, and I represent all the lesser Immortals of Sangju City!" The woman in the floral robe bowed deeply in respect.

    The others followed suit, bowing even lower.

    "Miss Mayor, there''s no need for such formality," Lu Changfeng stated sternly.

    The so-called mayor was the head of this small city, responsible for its administration, public welfare, and security. Their rank was equivalent to that of an Arbiter, both being Rank 9 Heavenly Officers of the Celestial Court.

    Below the mayor, the lesser officials and Immortals, though receiving celestial stipends, were unranked and had slim chances for promotion.

    "The Mayor of Sangju City is surnamed Lu, and she addresses Lu Changfeng as Young Master?" Yun Xiao noted from behind, now understanding that even a Rank 9 Arbiter was a significant official here, on par with the mayor!

    Lu Qian showed a look of guilt and said, "Under my governance, such a vile act urred in Sangju City. It shames us to have called upon the Arbiters from afar."

    "Less talk, bring the scrolls. Swift action to eradicate evil for the people is paramount," Lu Changfeng demanded.

    "Yes, yes," Lu Qian responded submissively, hurrying over with a scroll which she presented to Lu Changfeng with both hands.

    Lu Changfeng took the scroll, nced over it, and handed it to Yun Xiao, saying, "You will handle the investigation. I will first speak with the mayor to understand the full story and take over the case."

    Yun Xiao took the scroll, looked it over without a word.

    Lu Qian quickly called over an elder in gray, saying, "Mo Ya, please lead these Arbiters to examine the bodies."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The elder named Mo Ya bowed deeply, approached Yun Xiao with small, hurried steps, and said, "Arbiter, please."

    And so, Yun Xiao''s team of five split from Lu Changfeng.

    Lu Changfeng was in charge of the overall coordination and transfer of the case, while Yun Xiao and his team handled the groundwork.

    This arrangement was quite normal.

    Lu Changfeng was poised to be amander among the Arbiters, certainly not someone to make a public spectacle of himself running about.

    Yun Xiao''s team, apanied by the gray-robed elder Mo Ya, entered Sangju City ahead of the others.

    Inside, the townspeople, hearing of the arrival of the Arbiters from Sky Soaring City, came out to gaze upon them.

    "Mother! Look, it¡¯s the Arbiters!"

    "Such majestic armor! Such amanding presence!"

    "The men are valiant, and the women are striking!"

    "Dad, I want to be an Arbiter when I grow up!"

    At least in the eyes of the townspeople, the Arbiters seemed to carry a good image, even being the dream of many children.

    "With the Arbiters here, that ruthless murderer will surely be caught!"

    Hanging bodies at the bustling city gates was bound to attract attention.

    Amid the expectant gazes of the citizens, the five Arbiters strode through the streets.

    "In this small city of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, the level of the popce isn''t much higher than that of the Primordial Ruins, dominated by Yin-Yang Immortals, with many also in the Sacred Wheel and Five Cmities Realms. I estimate there are only about a dozen True Immortals," Yun Xiao concluded with a swift nce.

    Soon, they arrived at the city hall.

    "The nine bodies are inside here. Please follow me." Mo Ya led them to a chilly morgue, bowing even lower. His eyes and face were almost hidden from view.

    "Open the door," Zhao Cheng, having moved to the forefront during the walk, tookmand in Lu Changfeng''s absence.

    Being the only fully redited Arbiter present, he naturally assumed leadership with his presence.

    "Yes!" Mo Ya, seemingly intimidated by Zhao Cheng, hurriedly opened the door.

    A stench of decay wafted out immediately.

    Everyone frowned and covered their noses.

    Gu Yuan, her pretty face tightening, said, "You go in; I''ll look around here."

    "That won''t do." Zhao Cheng gave her a cool look. "Being an Arbiter means being responsible to the people."

    Rolling her eyes, Gu Yuan had no choice but to follow them inside.

    Yun Xiao stepped in to see a long table with nine bodies covered in white cloths.

    Upon entering, Zhao Cheng got straight to business. He didn''t consult the dossier but stood beside a body and asked, "Time and ce of death."

    Mo Ya quickly bowed and replied, "These nine died over three nights, three each night, and then were hung at the city gates. As for where they died, we don''t know yet."

    "Sost night, the night before that, and three nights ago?" Zhao Cheng asked.

    "Yes."

    Three nights ago, Yun Xiao was still in the mortal realm. So, he knew this case had nothing to do with him.

    After Zhao Cheng asked his questions, he swept the white cloths off the bodies with a wave of his hand.

    He nced over the corpses, crossed his arms, and asked, "Did they all die from their eyes being pierced through to the back of their skulls by a Sword Soul?"

    "Yes, and then they were hung at the gates, so there are ck marks of strangtion on their necks," Mo Ya bowed as he spoke.

    "That means the killer is a Sword Cultivator," Chi Yu added from the side.

    Sun Xiaoqi bit her lip and asked, "Do we know the killer''s strength?"

    Mo Ya turned to her and said, "The highest level among the victims was an Early True Immortal. It can be inferred that the killer is at least in the Mid True Immortal Realm."

    At this, Chi Yu, Gu Yuan, and Sun Xiaoqi''s expressions grew serious¡ªthey were all in the Mid True Immortal Realm.

    Zhao Cheng, being in the Late True Immortal Realm, showed no fear and scoffed, "Given the killer''s strength, he was able to hang the bodies on the third night, and you all failed to catch him?"

    Mo Ya bowed his head in shame and replied, "Yes,st night our city hall mobilized over 100 people to ambush the killer at the gates. Yet, we failed to catch them, not even glimpsing a shadow."

    He respectfully added, "That''s why we called for help from the Skyruler Immortal Manor, to prevent the killer from turning murder into a sport, hanging three people each night."

    After hearing this, Zhao Cheng stroked his chin, thinking for a while. Then, raising an eyebrow, he asked, "How many True Immortals in Sanju City are at the Mid stage or higher?"

 Chapter 528: Two More to Go!

    Chapter 528: Two More to Go!

    Mo Ya hastily said, "There were only two of us, the mayor and myself. Please, Arbiter Zhao, rest assured, we have always been pursuing the murderer and have alibis. We can confirm that the murderer is not from Sangju City."

    "Is that so?" Zhao Cheng shrugged his shoulders, his eyes narrowing. "Then tell me about these nine victims. Among them are three True Immortals and six Yang Immortals, none of whom are weak or meremon folk."

    Mo Ya lifted his head, somewhat puzzled, and pointed at Yun Xiao. "Arbiter Zhao, the files of these nine victims are clearly written in the scroll. If I recount them, I might miss something. Perhaps you''d like to read the scroll yourself?"

    After hearing this, Zhao Cheng rolled his eyes and gestured towards Yun Xiao, saying sternly, "What are you standing there for? Think you''re on vacation? Bring the scroll here!"

    Yun Xiao held the scroll and nced at Zhao Cheng, asking, "Are you the squad leader, or am I?"

    Zhao Cheng''s expression chilled, and through clenched teeth, he said, "Brat, with a major case before us, you have no experience to help. Instead, you¡¯re causing trouble?"

    "You can go and ask Lu Changfeng who¡¯s causing the trouble," Yun Xiao responded calmly.

    "Well, he''s not here right now. So, my words take precedence!" Zhao Cheng suddenly advanced to snatch the scroll from Yun Xiao¡¯s hands, barking, "Don¡¯t make me cripple you!"

    "Stop bickering." Chi Yu, Gu Yuan, and Sun Xiaoqi hurriedly squeezed between the two men to separate them."Both of you are esteemed Arbiters. Let''s not beughingstocks in this city because of petty squabbling," Chi Yu said with sarcasm.

    "Indeed." Gu Yuan pursed her lips, feeling somewhat embarrassed.

    "You all support this useless punk? He¡¯s 27 years old and not even a True Immortal. He''s just here to mess around. What good can he do?" Zhao Cheng scoffed coldly.

    "He¡¯s connected. If you have a problem, why not take it up with Deputy Changfeng?" Chi Yu shrugged.

    Zhao Cheng scoffed again before calming down. His family had some standing in Sky Soaring City, and he was ustomed to being haughty in the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Now out of his element, he indeed felt ufortable.

    "Let''s focus on finding the murderer, shall we?" Sun Xiaoqi said timidly.

    "Does the squad leader have any brilliant ideas?" Zhao Cheng raised an eyebrow.

    Ignoring him, Yun Xiao stared at the scroll again, then pointing at a female corpse in the middle, he asked Mo Ya, "Is this woman named Lu Jiao? Is she the mayor Lu Qian''s younger sister?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    With a mournful look, Mo Ya replied, "Yes, she diedst night, right in the mayor''s residence. It was after Lu Jiao''s death that the mayor, in great sorrow, sought help from the Skyruler Immortal Manor..."

    "Even the city magistrate''s own sister is dead..." Sun Xiaoqi clicked her tongue, "The murderer is brazen indeed."

    Chi Yu nced at Zhao Cheng and asked, "How do you propose we catch the murderer?"

    Seeing Yun Xiao silent, Zhao Cheng replied, "Let''s notplicate things. I bet the killer, bold as he is, will dare to hang more bodies at the city gates tonight."

    "With all themotion we''ve caused today, you think he''d still go?" Sun Xiaoqi questioned.

    "If he doesn''t dare, at least he''s not harming anyone for now," Zhao Cheng stated.

    "But he could still kill and hang the bodies somewhere else, continuing to provoke us," Yun Xiao suddenly spoke up.

    "So what do you suggest?" Zhao Cheng asked.

    They all knew that if the culprit was a bandit from outside the city, the only option was to set a trap and capture him.

    Yun Xiao immediately said, "Make three arrangements. First, set a trap at the city gate. Second, patrol the entire city. Third, use local forces to check for outsiders."

    "Arbiter, we''ve already checked several times. If a True Immortal wants to hide, they won''t be caught," Mo Ya interjected.

    "No matter, follow my orders and continue the search," Yun Xiao insisted.

    "Yes..." Mo Ya could only nod.

    Zhao Cheng scoffed, "Naive!"

    "If you have a better idea, speak up," Yun Xiao challenged.

    "We''re only five people. To set a trap and patrol the entire city? Do you think we have three heads and six arms? If the murderer slips past us, the honor of the Skyruler Immortal Manor will be lost," Zhao Cheng retorted.

    The other three remained silent.

    Ignoring Zhao Cheng, Yun Xiao turned to Chi Yu and the others, "You three, go set the trap at the city gate now and do not leave until dawn."

    Three True Immortals setting a trap would cover each other, and no couples were separated.

    All three of them agreed to this task.

    Only Sun Xiaoqi yfully stuck out her tongue.

    "And you two?" Chi Yu asked, arms crossed.

    "I''ll patrol the eastern district, and Zhao Cheng will take the west," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Fine!" Zhao Chengughed, "Lu Yao, you act as if you alone hold authority, but we''ll do as you say. Just remember, if anything goes wrong, you''re responsible!"

    "Whatever," Yun Xiao responded.

    After the discussion, Chi Yu and the others headed to the city gates to find a good spot for the ambush.

    Stepping out of the city hall, Chi Yu couldn''t help but chuckle. "Those two fools, fighting like dogs. They''re quite the spectacle."

    "Zhao Cheng has just been appointed as a full Arbiter. So, he''s eager to prove himself. Lu Yao is a fool too, taking this investigation so seriously, acting as if he''s something special," Gu Yuan said with augh.

    "They''re all talents with a divine mission!" Chi Yu joked.

    Gu Yuan nced outside and, clinging to Chi Yu''s arm, cooed, "Darling, I hear everything''s cheap in this little city. Let''s go shopping, shall we?"

    "Isn''t that inappropriate?" Chi Yu questioned.

    "What''s the harm? We ditch these Arbiter robes, and who''ll recognize us?" Gu Yuan pouted.

    "Alright, alright," Chi Yu chuckled and agreed.

    "Um..." Sun Xiaoqi watched them ready to leave and hurriedly asked, "What about me?"

    Gu Yuan gave her a stern look. "Go to the city gate and find a spot to set up the trap. You think you''reing with us? How annoying!"

    "Oh! Right." Sun Xiaoqi''s face turned red with embarrassment. After they left, she clenched her fists and muttered under her breath, "Damn it, one day, I''ll fall in love too!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The day had been busy, and soon night fell.

    The small city, cloaked by a dark sky, seemed even darker.

    Due to the frequent murders, the usually lively nights in Sangju City were nearly deserted this evening.

    Only the mayor''s patrol teams continued their search through every household.

    On a dimly lit long street, the tall and burly Arbiter Zhao Cheng, not wearing his Arbiter armor, emerged from a brothel, his face flushed as heughed, "The girls from small ces are the best¡ªcheap and cheerful!"

    After speaking, he sped his hands in the air, slightly tipsy, and chuckled again, "This ce, I coulde back often."

    "Zhao Cheng!"

    Suddenly, a cold voice called out from his left.

    Zhao Cheng paused, turning to look. He saw a young man in tinum armor standing in the darkness, his face expressionless, as he began to walk towards him.

    "Yun Xiao?" Zhao Cheng shrugged with a disdainful smile as he gazed at Yun Xiao.

    "I assigned you to patrol the western district, and here you are, lost in dreams in a brothel?" Yun Xiao stood before Zhao Cheng, fury etched across his face.

    "Yeah?" Zhao Cheng scoffed, leisurely slipping on his Arbiter armor and raising an eyebrow. "What about it? You''re just an Arbiter Initiate. What are you going to do? Punish me?"

    "You!" Yun Xiao red at him intensely.

    "Ha, what a little weasel!" The drunk Zhao Cheng grabbed Yun Xiao by the cor, hisugh scornful. "Oh revered descendant of martyrs, do you dare to touch me?"

    No sooner had the words left his mouth than Yun Xiao''s hand sped an azure Sword Soul, thrusting it into Zhao Cheng¡¯s left eye with the speed of lightning!

    The de burst out from the back of Zhao Cheng¡¯s head. The strike was swift and vicious, like a bolt of lightning in broad daylight, instantly fatal.

    Zhao Cheng''s head was pierced through, his remaining eye widened in a grotesque mixture of horror, astonishment, and agony. His lips, tongue, and the hand clutching Yun Xiao¡¯s cor trembled.

    With a squelch, Yun Xiao pulled out the Sword Soul, clutching Zhao Cheng''s neck and sneered coldly, "You really thought I was here to investigate? Sorry, I became an Arbiter for one reason only¡ªto make money!"

    With that, Yun Xiao''s sword pierced Zhao Cheng¡¯s right eye.

    Zhao Cheng fell to his knees, his face and the back of his head oozing a grisly mix of red and white. His body twitched a few times before it stilled.

    Yun Xiao rummaged through his robes, pulling out a hefty Bag of Holding and peeked inside.

    "Looks like you collected quite a tribute today, huh?"

    Yun Xiao pocketed the Bag of Holding and then produced a thick hemp rope, fastening it around Zhao Cheng¡¯s neck.

    Dragging Zhao Cheng¡¯s body towards the city gate, he muttered into the dark night, "The murderer ns to hang three at the city gates tonight? Tonight, I''ll do it for him."

    ncing back at Zhao Cheng¡¯s still-dripping eyes, he smirked. "Two more to go."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 529: Night Falls, Murder in the Wind!

    Chapter 529: Night Falls, Murder in the Wind!

    Zhao Cheng had collected quite the harvest. Only 30 new Arbiter recruits had reported to the Wind Pavilion this year. Yet, he''d managed to gather a tribute of 400 True Immortal Jades¡ªa sum equal to four years of Yun Xiao''s yearly stipend.

    "It proves he holds some sway in the Skyruler Immortal Manor to sit there and collect such money," Yun Xiao mused.

    Without a moment''s hesitation, Yun Xiao fed the 400 True Immortal Jades to Red Moon, then stood quietly at the street corner, waiting as the night began to deepen.

    The night was still young. In the Celestial Court, nighttime was a different world altogether. Many deeds that daylight forbade could now be discreetly conducted.

    In the meantime, the little ck coffin spirit beast started producing Tri-Heavenly Sariras one by one.

    Yun Xiao leaned against the wall at the corner, popping the tri-colored beads into his mouth like peanuts, followed by a swig of wine from his sk. This was his unique path of Immortal cultivation.

    Slowly, as he consumed the Tri-Heavenly Sariras, the celestial power within his Dantian swelled. His Dao Heart had beenplete for some time, and now his power was finally catching up.

    "Establishment Yang Immortal Realm," Yun Xiao murmured as he pocketed his sk. "I''ve finally reached the real bottleneck."

    Next came the Third Dao Tribtion of the Immortal path¡ªTrue Immortality.This level demanded a transformation of the Genesis Spirit, a separation from the body. For a Sword Cultivator like him, this step was critical, as the freed spirit couldmand the Flying Sword with more precision and power, striking foes from even further away!

    "Ordinary Arbiter Initiates remain below the Mid True Immortal Realm¡ªjust two stages above me," Yun Xiao noted to himself. His own record for ying enemies beyond his level had reached six, even seven stages higher.

    Yang Immortal to True Immortal was a significant threshold, perhaps slightly challenging. But once Yun Xiao broke through to the True Immortal Realm, he would soar like a dragon.

    "I must be a True Immortal soon! The myriad worlds cannot wait..." Lifting his gaze, Yun Xiao stared up at the dim stars scattered across the sky. It was his homeworld.

    With a whoosh, his figure, a blur of white, vanished from the street corner. When he appeared again, he was near the gates of Sangju City. Standing at the street junction, he looked ahead.

    At the end of the street, a couple wrapped in each other¡¯s arms and oblivious to the world, strolled toward him.

    Noticing someone in their path, they looked up, annoyance flickering across their faces.

    "Weren''t you supposed to set up an ambush at the city gates?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Chi Yu chuckled and turned to Gu Yuan, saying, "Ever heard the old saying?"

    "What is it?" Gu Yuan fluttered her eyshes flirtatiously.

    "A good dog doesn''t block the path." Chi Yu raised an eyebrow at Yun Xiao, then shot him a re. "Otherwise, it might just get its legs broken."

    With that, he wrapped his arm tighter around Gu Yuan¡¯s slender waist and walked straight towards Yun Xiao. His demeanor suggested he might just walk right through him.

    Yun Xiao watched them coolly, making no move to step aside.

    As Chi Yu approached, his mocking tone took on an edge of anger. In front of his woman, he could not show weakness!

    "Lu Yao, look at you, acting tough when Deputy Changfeng was just teasing you. You really take yourself too seriously." Chi Yu shrugged with augh.

    "Pathetic," Gu Yuan shook her head in disappointment at Yun Xiao. "We¡¯ve been with Deputy Changfeng for ten years. Are you closer to him than we are? Zhao Cheng has been restlesstely. So, Deputy Changfeng made you squad leader to remind him to keep a low profile, not because you¡¯re actually useful, get it?"

    "Don¡¯t be too blunt with this fool; his brain can¡¯t handle it." Chi Yu waved dismissively, his impatience clear. "Enough, just stay out of our way. You can pretend to be in charge in Zhao City, but don¡¯t bother us."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, Yun Xiao didn''t step aside but repeated, "I ordered you to set up an ambush, and you disobeyed. If the criminal escapes, it''s on you."

    Chi Yu rolled his eyes, thoroughly exasperated. "So what if I disobey? I might as well be done with you!"

    Unable to restrain himself any longer, he let go of Gu Yuan''s waist, and with a sweep of his hand, a green tempest of electricity thundered towards Yun Xiao''s forehead.

    Should it connect, Yun Xiao''s head would surely explode. Those who knew the couple were aware that despite Chi Yu¡¯s generally jovial demeanor, his actions were far more ruthless than that of Zhao Cheng.

    Underneath the thunderous strike, Yun Xiao''s eyes remained unshaken. With a flick of his finger, a streak of azure light shot out, too fast for the night to conceal.

    With a soft, grisly pop, an eyeball and skull shattered.

    Chi Yu froze on the spot, his hand raised just three inches from Yun Xiao''s head, trembling violently. With a splurt, blood and gore from his eye slid down his face.

    His features twisted grotesquely, as though his face were a twisted pretzel. With only one eye left, nearly split in two, he gazed at Yun Xiao in agonized confusion.

    <em>POP! </em>Yun Xiao flicked again, and a streak of azure light shed past Chi Yu''s other eye.

    "Agh¡­" Chi Yu''s body shook violently as his raised hand slowly dropped.

    "What''s wrong, husband?" Gu Yuan asked, puzzled.

    In her mind, Chi Yu never held back once he struck.

    "What are you afraid of, you''re a big man. Finish him! Our parents will cover for us," she said with disbelief.

    "He''s dead." Yun Xiao spoke as he turned Chi Yu''s body to face Gu Yuan.

    "Hah¡­ KYAAAH¡­!" Gu Yuan firstughed. But when she suddenly saw the trails of blood and tears and Chi Yu''s mangled face, she screamed as if plunging into an abyss, her cry tearing through the air.

    "Look over there," Yun Xiao pointed towards the street corner.

    A burly man sat against the wall on the ground, his eyes hollow, his neck bound by a hemp rope.

    "Zhao... Zhao Cheng!" Gu Yuan gasped, staggering backward and copsing to the ground, utterly breathless.

    She couldn''t catch a breath, her body convulsing in shock. <em>What''s going on!? Nonono! Why does he want to kill us? Why? Why¡­? Why¡­!?</em>

    She couldn''t make sense of any of these questions.

    "No choice," Yun Xiao shook his head, pointing to the stars above. "My family, my lover, my hometown, my homeworld¡ªall doomed to destruction within a fortnight due to the heedless ravages of you Immortals. I''ve had to rob and kill here, to empower myself quickly. Ick money, resources, backing¡ªeverything. I''m out of time. You crossed my path, provoked me. Tell me, if you don¡¯t die, who should? Why should you Immortals treat mortals like pigs and dogs?"

    "What?" Gu Yuan raised her trembling hands, tears streaming down as she cried, "Lu Yao, don¡¯t kill me. I can marry you, serve you. You said you have no backing¡ªmy family does, my father is..."

    Before she could finish, Yun Xiao cut her off, pointing towards the city gate. "Tonight, the murderer in Sangju City will hang three Arbiters at the city gates, a grave provocation to the Skyruler Immortal Manor. You''re the third."

    "NO!" Her scream was abruptly cut off.

    With a thud, blood dripped from her eyes as shey on the ground, her hands limp, motionless.

    A thick hemp rope looped around her neck, dragging her into the shadows of the street corner.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In Sangju City, at the mayor''s mansion¡­ It waste at night, and soft moans filled the air in Lu Qian''s bedroom. Before long, Lu Changfeng opened the door. He stepped out and took a deep breath, his expression somewhat embarrassed.

    "Little brother, done already? That was way too quick..." Nestled in bed, Lu Qian was slowly putting her dress back on, her voice tinged with reproach.

    "Recently, that Chi Yud sent me a few exotic songstresses; it''s been a bit taxing." Lu Changfeng scratched his head. "Sorry, cousin."

    "At your age, you should practice some restraint," Lu Qian said as she slipped into a wide floral robe and stepped barefoot beside him at the railing. She was of age, ripe as a peach, her sultry gaze smooth as silk.

    "Indeed." By day, Lu Changfeng was a revered prospective Arbitermander of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, but here, he was just a younger cousin!

    The air was thick with awkwardness, and Lu Changfeng, desperate for a change of subject, coughed and ventured, "You killed those nine people, didn''t you?"

    Lu Qian paused, surprised. "How did you know?"

    "Well, one of the deceased was your sister. I know you''ve had your differencestely," Lu Changfeng remarked coolly.

    "..." Lu Qian pressed her lips together, a cold smile ying across her face.

    "Just say it. You asked me here for a reason, what is it?" Lu Changfeng asked, looking at her.

    Lu Qian took his hand, her gaze earnest. "Little brother, since you were 13 years old, we''ve been close. It''s been over a decade. You''re like family to me..."

    "Get to the point," Lu Changfeng interrupted, growing impatient.

    Lu Qian sighed softly. "Recently, I skimmed off some treasures at the Northern Immortal Jade Mine. Eight people found out."

    "So you killed them all, and with such fanfare?" Lu Changfeng asked, puzzled.

    "If I had killed them quietly, it would''ve been too easy to trace back to me. With all thismotion, the Arbiters of the Skyruler Immortal Manor personally investigating makes it easy. We just need a scapegoat to close the case smoothly. Once the Manor closes the case, everything settles..." Lu Qian exined with an awkward chuckle.

    "Got a scapegoat ready?" Lu Changfeng asked.

    "Already set up. It¡¯s Mo Ya, one of my father¡¯s old generals. He¡¯s nearing the end of his life. I''ve arranged the deputy mayor position for his son. He''ll help me out before he passes," Lu Qian stated earnestly.

    "Alright, as long as everything¡¯s arranged. I¡¯ll arrest them and close the case." Lu Changfeng nodded, ustomed to such maneuvers within their circles.

    "You mentioned eight people. Your sister wasn''t involved, was she?" Lu Changfeng suddenly recalled.

    Lu Qian¡¯s gaze turned icy. "I''ve wanted her dead for a while. Took the opportunity to handle it. Besides, we appeared close in public. With her gone, it''s hard for themon folk to suspect me."

    "Alright then!" Lu Changfeng, ever the stoic in matters of authority, pped Lu Qian on the shoulder. "How are we handling the scapegoat? Another murder tonight to hang at the city gate?"

    "Yes, I told him to kill three nobodies tonight," Lu Qian nced at the sky, estimating the time. "He should be hanging the bodies about now."

    As her words fell, a guard came rushing in, panic-stricken.

    "Arbiter, Young Master!" The guard knelt before them, pale-faced and trembling.

    "Speak up," Lu Qian said coldly, then gave Lu Changfeng a suggestive eyebrow raise, signaling that their n was about to conclude.

    The guard stammered, "The murderer killed three more today, hung them at the city gates!"

    Lu Qian and Lu Changfeng exchanged a smile.

    But the guard added in terror, "This time, the victims were three Arbiters!"

    At that, Lu Changfeng''s trousers, which he had just pulled up, slipped down again, exposing his unimpressive stature.

 Chapter 530: Save Me, Changfeng!

    Chapter 530: Save Me, Changfeng!

    <em>Three Arbiters¡­! </em>Lu Qian''s eyes trembled, and her voice cracked as she bit her teeth and asked, "Are you sure the dead are Arbiters?"

    The guard replied in panic, "Absolutely certain! My brothers all saw it, it was indeed three of the six Arbiters from this afternoon..."

    At this point, the guard nced at Lu Changfeng and spoke softly, "Commander Lu, it was your three subordinates!"

    He was obviously quite familiar with Lu Changfeng, calling him amander.

    "Who were the victims?" Lu Changfeng still couldn''t believe his own ears.

    "It was Zhao Cheng, Chi Yu, and Gu Yuan," the guard said, his voice trembling as he bowed his head.

    "Them¡­?" Lu Changfeng and Lu Qian exchanged a look, their eyes wide in disbelief.

    How could this be?

    "Go back now, secure the scene, lock down all information; we''ll be there immediately!" Lu Qian tried to calm herself, but her scalp tingled uncontrobly."Yes!" The guard''s face was ashen as he bowed and retreated.

    Once he had left, Lu Changfeng stared at Lu Qian and hissed, "What''s going on? Have your people lost their minds?"

    "It couldn''t have been Mo Ya; he couldn''t even defeat Zhao Cheng," Lu Qian hurriedly exined.

    "Mayor¡­" Before she could finish, an old man stealthily entered from the shadows outside the wall¡ªit was Mo Ya.

    His face was stricken with fear, and as soon as he entered, he knelt before Lu Qian, his eyes filled with terror. "Why would you kill an Arbiter? I could have taken the me for those nine lives before. But now, with three Arbiters dead, if I go out and take the me, the Skyruler Immortal Manor will surely investigate my lineage back three generations and nine ns. Though Mo Dong is my illegitimate son and few know of him, if the Skyruler Immortal Manor thoroughly investigates, not only will he never be deputy mayor, he might even lose his life!"

    Lu Qian voiced her frustration, "Are you foolish? How could this possibly be my doing?"

    "Not you? But the three Arbiters were also found with their eyes pierced, hanging at the city gates..." Mo Ya gasped at this point, his voice quivering, "Someone used our murder weapon to kill, and they killed the Arbiters, whom even the Celestial Court dares not touch! Now, it''s like having mud in our pants¡ªit might not be shit, but it sure seems like it!"

    "With the Arbiters dead, this has blown up..." Lu Qian''s face paled as she turned to Lu Changfeng in panic. "The Skyruler Immortal Manor will never allow an Arbiter¡¯s murderer to escape unpunished. So, they''ll surely send more people, and they''ll definitely trace it back to me!"

    "It''s over, all over!" Mo Ya''s eyes were bloodshot. He had nned to use his remaining years to secure a prosperous future for his descendants, but if the truth were discovered, even if he hadn¡¯t killed an Arbiter, his entire family would be doomed.

    "Mo Ya, go down now. Say nothing, do nothing, just wait for instructions," Lu Qianmanded coldly.

    "Yes..." Mo Ya bowed and hurried away, his face a mask of panic.

    As soon as he left, Lu Qian suddenly fell to her knees at Lu Changfeng''s feet, her voice desperate, "Changfeng, save me! If you don''t save me this time, I''m as good as dead."

    Tears fell from her eyes, pitifully.

    "Enough, stand up." Lu Changfeng took a deep breath and said coldly, "This is targeted at me, to bring me down. How can I not destroy them? The only way now is to catch tonight¡¯s murderer quickly and pin all the me on him."

    "Yes, yes." Lu Qian nodded quickly.

    "Immediately arrange for the city to be locked down and keep the death of the Arbiters a secret. Anyone who knows, try to control them as much as possible," Lu Changfeng instructed.

    "How can this news be kept under wraps?" Lu Qian shook her head.

    "It''s the middle of the night now; the murderer has been active recently and there are fewer people around at night, so the impact isn''t too big yet... We''ll stall as much as we can. I need to use this time to bring in some friends from Sky Soaring City to help!" Lu Changfeng said sternly.

    "So you mean, before the Skyruler Immortal Manor gets wind of the deaths of the Arbiters, you''ll bring in a few powerful friends to wrap up this case?" Lu Qian, previously frantic, finally calmed down.

    "Exactly." Lu Changfeng nodded, his expression still grim. "This time I took people into action, lost three Arbiters, all of high birth; when I return, I''m bound to be marked severely, which will affect my promotion to Rank 8!"

    "Changfeng, I''m sorry. I truly didn''t foresee this," Lu Qian''s voice carried a mournful tone.

    "It''s not about you," Lu Changfeng replied, gazing into the night sky, his fists clenched with venom in his voice, "Just let me find out who did this¡ªI''ll make sure they regret evering into this world!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yes, they shall be cut to pieces a thousand times over!" Lu Qian replied with equal ferocity.

    After a pause, her worry resurfaced, "Should we tell your parents about this?"

    "No need." Lu Changfeng shrugged with a coldugh. "My sister passed away mysteriously, and they spend their days weeping; they hardly have time to worry about me."

    "It''s indeed unfair. Compared to you, Xiaolu was not as talented; she just knew how to act sweetly and received so much affection," Lu Qian remarked softly.

    Lu Changfeng scoffed, "Besides, my father is eager to be the next governor of Sky Soaring City. If he learns of this mess, he''d surely me me again."

    "Then, can you rely on your friends?" Lu Qian asked casually.

    "They''re sworn brothers and sisters who''d risk their lives for me, what do you think?" Lu Changfeng shrugged again, then looked down at Lu Qian. "By the way, you mentioned earlier that you skimmed off a mine of True Immortal Jade?"

    "Yes..." Lu Qian hurriedly produced a Bag of Holding. "This is to show my respect for you."

    <em>SMACK! </em>Lu Changfeng swatted the Bag of Holding away, his voice cold, "Are you trying to appease a beggar? I get dragged into this mess for you, and this is all you bring?"

    Lu Qian was stunned.

    "Give me the mine," Lu Changfeng added.

    Lu Qian''s delicate body trembled, but all she could do was bow her head and nod silently. Inside, she bitterly smiled. All her efforts, evenmitting fratricide, and in the end, it was all for someone else''s gain.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    A whileter, Lu Changfeng and Lu Qian arrived at the gates of Sangju City.

    The news was suppressed; few people were around, causing little immediate shock or panic.

    On that stone pir gate, three ropes hung, each suspending an Arbiter with hollowed eyes. In the middle hung Zhao Cheng, with Chi Yu and Gu Yuan on either side. Even in death, the lovers were not allowed to hang together...

    When Lu Changfeng saw their corpses, his heart clenched painfully. He had known them since childhood, was familiar with their family backgrounds¡ªboth sets of parents prominent figures. Just this morning, they had been as lively as crickets, and now they dangled like dried radishes at the city gate...

    Their deaths were gruesome, their eyes hollowed out, faces twisted in terror.

    "Their deaths resemble those of the nine before them." Mo Ya, who hade over, was taking notes in an official ledger.

    "However, these three Arbiters died in even greater fear, suggesting the killer truly terrified them. Capable of striking down even those in the Late True Immortal Realm, the murderer must be at least in the Establishment stage..." he muttered to himself, cautious not to speak too loudly.

    "Sun Xiaoqi!" Disgusted and feeling ill, Lu Changfeng chose to look away and instead grabbed Sun Xiaoqi, who was pale and trembling. He red into her eyes and roared, "I heard you''ve been lurking around here? Were you the first to find their bodies?"

    "Yes, yes, yes¡­" Sun Xiaoqi''s chin quivered violently.

    "People hang corpses here and you, out of your body, see nothing?" Lu Changfeng snapped coldly.

    "Deputy Changfeng, they were too fast, I¡ªI just bowed my head to take a bite of meat, and they slipped away, totally uncatchable... I didn''t dare chase them," Sun Xiaoqi cried.

    "So you saw them? Who were they? Any distinctive features in their attire?" Lu Qian stepped forward, staring intently at Sun Xiaoqi.

    Sun Xiaoqi hurriedly recalled, "It was a woman, tall and slim, wearing a wind robe embroidered with mulberry leaves and chrysanthemums, edged in gold... Yes, Mayor Lu Qian, just like the one you''re wearing."

    After she blurted out herst words, Sun Xiaoqi froze, her eyes widening as she stumbled backward in fear.

    "Are you sick? Talking nonsense!" Lu Changfeng grasped her by the cor, annoyed by her foolish and stunned demeanor.

    "No, really! The murderer was wearing exactly that... I get it now, she wants to frame the mayor! That¡¯s cunning indeed. Despicable." Sun Xiaoqi came to a realization and hurriedly defended Lu Qian.

    Around them, a dozen guards exchanged nces, at a loss for words.

    "Frame the mayor?" Lu Changfeng nced back at Lu Qian.

    At the time of Zhao Cheng''s death, Lu Qian had been <em>exchanging pointers</em> in bed with him; she certainly wasn''t the perpetrator.

    <em>The murderer must know that the previous nine were killed by Sister Qian!</em> Lu Changfeng''s brow furrowed deeply.

    With this realization of his formidable opponent, he calmed himself, took a deep breath, and fixed his gaze on Sun Xiaoqi, "Tell us what happened. Why were you alone here, and where were those three killed?"

    Sun Xiaoqi recounted the arrangements made by Yun Xiao.

    After she finished, she said with a grimace, "I advised Chi Yu and Gu Yuan to join me, as it was quite frightening to be here alone, but they didn¡¯t listen to me. They didn¡¯t show up even after it got dark."

    Seeing her panic-stricken appearance, Lu Changfeng''s anger boiled over, and he kicked her fiercely, ring, "Have your parents take you back home to raise you as a celestial pig. With your cowardice, you''re just wasting the Celestial Court''s resources."

    Hearing this, Sun Xiaoqi thought to herself, "That would be great, lying at home and eating good food¡ªwho would want toe out and live in fear..."

    People like her, with ample family resources and no great ambitions, were not umon.

    Lu Changfeng''s gaze then shifted, and he asked Sun Xiaoqi, "You just said, Lu Yao and Zhao Cheng were in charge of patrolling the eastern and western districts of the city?"

    "Yes, yes, yes," Sun Xiaoqi nodded.

    "Someone!" Lu Changfeng''s eyes were cold as ice as he shouted, "Bring Lu Yao to me!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At a street corner not far away, Yun Xiao stood on a rooftop, looking towards the city gates.

    Beneath him, a little ck beast scampered in and out from under a dress embroidered with chrysanthemums and mulberry leaves.

    Blue Star remarked, "I''m impressed. You''re a real cross-dressing master, love it!"

    "Cut it out, it''s just a disguise!" Yun Xiao said, exasperated.

    "Seriously though, you look better in it than Lu Qian does," Blue Star teased.

    "Get lost!"

    Blue Star and Red Moon both burst intoughter.

    "By the way, how are you so sure Lu Qian is the murderer?" Blue Star curiously asked.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze was cool. "No evidence, just a gut feeling from the first time I met her."

    "Lu Changfeng is looking for you, do you think he''ll suspect you?" Blue Star inquired.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 531: Spiritual Essence Manifestation!

    Chapter 531: Spiritual Essence Manifestation!

    "It doesn''t matter if Lu Changfeng suspects me. As long as he locks down the city, no information wille in or out."

    In this kind of scenario, thew of the jungle prevailed, and a lot could be aplished. The Celestial Court was a peculiar ce. Here, many facets of life were strictly bound byws and mandates, making murder inconvenient.

    To Yun Xiao, the restrictions here were too great! Yet, because of the darkness that existed here, there was also much to gain.

    "Basically, as long as I keep up the image of a righteous and just Arbiter without anything trailing back to me, no one can touch me!" Yun Xiao leaped from the rooftops and headed towards the city gates.

    Eventually, the guards looking for him found him and escorted him to the gates.

    "Lu Yao, what are you still doing at a time like this?" Lu Changfeng demanded.

    "Patrolling¡­" Yun Xiao came over, clueless, and upon seeing three corpses at the gates, his expression turned sour, and he said to Sun Xiaoqi, "The murderer has killed and disyed the bodies again? Why haven¡¯t you three caught him?"

    "Look at who the dead are¡­" Sun Xiaoqi said.

    Yun Xiao looked up, a chill running down his spine. He was silent for a long while, then looked at Lu Changfeng again."Was it your idea to have everyone split up?" Lu Changfeng asked coldly.

    Yun Xiao clenched his teeth. "I, I didn¡¯t expect the murderer to be so strong."

    "What an unexpected surprise," Lu Changfeng said. His eyes wide with anger, he then shouted, "Their deaths are on you! Useless! And to think I wanted to put my trust in you!"

    Lu Changfeng''s roar was formidable! The sound wave seemed to suddenly solidify, forming a ghastly spectral image in front of Yun Xiao!

    This spectral image, majestic and imposing, appeared to be a massive green turtle with a gaping maw! It charged towards Yun Xiao!

    "Ghost Spirit Guardian!"

    "People are terrified by the young master of the Lu Family''s strength..." the onlookers murmured in surprise.

    "A Ghost Spirit Guardian? He''s testing me in public!" Yun Xiao realized instantly.

    His gaze turned icy, but his movements were slightly uncoordinated. He quickly gathered his arms, and the Prison Warden Sigil on his forehead suddenly descended, forming the Runic Umbre.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The roaring Ghost Spirit Guardian struck, instantly shattering Yun Xiao¡¯s Runic Umbre, sting him into a stone building behind, causing it to copse in waves.

    "He indeed possesses the ability to contend with a True Immortal, the Life Sigil is formidable... but to kill Zhao Cheng instantly, that¡¯s impossible." After this attempt, Lu Changfeng furrowed his brow deeply.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Everyone knew that Lu Yao couldn''t yet project his Genesis Spirit. So, it was hard to believe this young man had strengthparable to someone in the Establishment True Immortal Realm.

    If this person really had such abilities, why would he impersonate Lu Yao?

    "Even if he¡¯s not directly involved, the people behind him probably are!" Lu Changfeng¡¯s face was grim, his target locked.

    From the Yuan Song to Lu Xiaolu incidents, he had always found Lu Yao peculiar, a significant threat. This outing was intended to sidestep his parents and deal with the young man directly.

    Unexpectedly, his own side faced trouble first!

    The onlookers were terrified by this scene.

    <em>BANG! </em>Covered in dust, Yun Xiao emerged from the rubble of the stone building, addressing Lu Changfeng, "Young Master, I indeed bear responsibility for this. With the murderer still atrge, should we return to the Skyruler Immortal Manor for reinforcements?"

    "There¡¯s no need for your involvement," Lu Changfeng responded coldly.

    In public, he couldn''t take action against Yun Xiao, so he had to let it be.

    Without another nce at him, Lu Changfeng said to Lu Qian, "Prepare coffins for these three noble Arbiters. Within a day, the Skyruler Immortal Manor must ount for all the deceased!"

    "Yes!" Lu Qian and the others from Sangju City nodded earnestly.

    "Is supporting?" Sun Xiaoqi asked weakly. "What should we do next, Deputy Changfeng?"

    "Do next? The two of you?" Lu Changfeng red at her and Yun Xiao, "If the murderer isn''t dead by today, hang yourselves up there!"

    With that, he swished his cloak and left coldly with Lu Qian and the others.

    "Forget it, it''s none of our business now, let''s just squat here," Sun Xiaoqi muttered resignedly, finding a hidden corner to squat down in.

    "Why hasn¡¯t it gotten light yet?" She nced at the city gates, still fearful despite today''s quota of three deaths being met, and motioned to Yun Xiao, "Come and squat with me. It¡¯s too dangerous standing tall; you might get hit by a Flying Sword. Those Sword Cultivators are wicked, always striking from the shadows."

    She really didn''t seem like an Arbiter at all, quite adorable actually. In the Skyruler Immortal Manor, such unpretentious folks were rare indeed.

    "Senior Sister Sun," Yun Xiao came over and sat on the bluestone beside her.

    "Don''t call me senior sister, you''re 27, and I''m only 22. Don''t make me old. Just call me Xiaoqi."

    Seeing Yun Xiao''s armor dirty, Sun Xiaoqi took a deep breath and blew it clean in one go, causing his long hair to dance in the air.

    "Why does it smell like roast chicken?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Uh, I just ate a few..." Sun Xiaoqi said, embarrassed.

    "Oh," Yun Xiao chuckled and fell silent. After a while, he suddenly asked, "It¡¯s been ten years. The young master has gotten quite powerful, hasn''t he? He''s in the Essence Manifestation Realm of a True Immortal, right?"

    "Naturally, he''s almost amander now. Definitely higher than us in the Spirit Projection Realm," Sun Xiaoqi said enviously.

    What wasmonly known as a True Immortal and the True Immortal Realm actually involved different concepts on the path to immortality.

    Everyone in the Third Dao Tribtion was a True Immortal. And the first step in it was the Spirit Projection Realm, where the Genesis Spirit left the body, colloquially called the True Immortal Realm. Then, the second step was the Essence Manifestation Realm.

    The First Dao Tribtion, the Eight Mortal Realms,id the foundation for strength and magic power.

    The Second Dao Tribtion, the Eight Dao Heart Realms, cultivated the Dao Heart while paving the way for the Genesis Spirit.

    The Third Dao Tribtion was dedicated to cultivating the Genesis Spirit!

    Here, the Spirit Projection Realm involved the Genesis Spirit leaving the body and was the foundation of the Third Dao Tribtion.

    A spirit that could be projected could interact with the world and bring about many transformations.

    The Essence Manifestation Realm brought the first of these transformations to the spirit.

    The full name of the Essence Manifestation Realm was the Spiritual Essence Manifestation Realm.

    What Lu Changfeng disyed earlier, the Ghost Spirit Guardian, was actually his spirit manifesting for an attack. Naturally, his spirit''s true form was a human, not a turtle.

    The reason for the turtle manifestation was that the spirit manifestation involved returning to one''s ancestral origin. What form it took depended on each individual¡¯s lineage and ancestry.

    In the Lu Family''s history, there was a Turtle Spirit Immortal who had ascended to the rank of a Rank 2 Ster Margrave. His spirit, at a certain level, could be passed down to descendants, truly bringing blessings for generations!

    Essence manifestation, simply put, was like calling upon the spirit of an ancient ancestor, merging it with one''s own, akin to summoning forebears to battle.

    This led to one inevitable conclusion!

    The more powerful the ancestor, the greater the Third Dao Tribtion they endured!

    This was the essence of heritage and depth!

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, lineage and bloodline were prized for this reason!

    Heavenly Officers, noble houses, and Immortal ns all thrived unceasingly because of this!

    An old saying in the Celestial Court went like this¡ª

    ¡¸<em>The essence that flows in one''s blood will erupt the instant the spirit manifests</em>¡¹

    Such was the mystery of the Third Dao Tribtion!

    "I also hope I can reach the Essence Manifestation Realm one day! It would elevate mybat power by leaps, even more so than ascending from a Yang Immortal to a True Immortal," Sun Xiaoqi mused.

    "You don¡¯t seem suited much for fighting," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "You don¡¯t understand. In this Great Dao Celestial Realm, whether you fight or not is one thing; having the means is another. If I had it, couldn¡¯t I just stay home and eat without all this hassle?" Sun Xiaoqi replied.

    "That makes sense," Yun Xiao nodded, then sighed, "Here you are, dreaming of essence manifestation, and I''m not even a True Immortal yet."

    "You¡¯re not a True Immortal, but you managed to withstand Brother Feng¡¯s Ghost Spirit Guardian; that means you''re truly tough," Sun Xiaoqi patted his shoulder. "Lu Yao, my man, you just need to push a little harder!"

    "I really do need to make an effort," Yun Xiao looked out into the endless dark world. "I want to achieve spirit projection and be a True Immortal, but I¡¯m stuck at this step, clueless."

    "Spirit projection?" Sun Xiaoqi scratched her head, "I was pretty confused when it happened to me, too. Want a little tip I picked up?"

    "Please, enlighten me," Yun Xiao eagerly responded.

    "Don¡¯t speak in titudes. Treat me to a meal first, it must be from the Drunken Immortal Tavern in Sky Soaring City," Sun Xiaoqi¡¯s eyes sparkled.

    "Sure, sounds like a deal!" Yun Xiaoughed.

    "Not bad, not bad, young man. Generous! You''ve got potential!" Sun Xiaoqi chuckled.

    "Get on with it. It¡¯ll be daylight soon," Yun Xiao urged.

    "The break of dawn is good. Right after the dark skies clear and the Celestial Sourcecore erupts throughout the city, that¡¯s the perfect moment for initial spirit projection," Sun Xiaoqi exined.

    "How exactly do I do it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Sun Xiaoqi blushed slightly. "Well, I just thought of spirit projection as dreaming. Haven¡¯t we always dreamed of flying through the skies since we were kids? So I half-slept, rxed, and thought about things I wanted, ces I wanted to go, people I wanted to embrace... I had starved myself for several days, just thinking about roast chicken. I thought and thought, nearly drove myself mad, and suddenly, there was a jolt, and I realized my spirit had left my body and was already downstairs at the chicken roastery!"

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless. After a long pause, he finally gave Sun Xiaoqi a thumbs-up. "Brilliant indeed."

 Chapter 532: Spirit Journeying Through the Cosmos!

    Chapter 532: Spirit Journeying Through the Cosmos!

    Sun Xiaoqi had spoken inly. Yet, from her words, Yun Xiao sensed the core elements of a spirit¡¯s departure from the body.

    "The soul resides in the body, the spirit wanders the earth and sky, and the mind follows its will."

    Previously, the Genesis Spirit was confined to the Dantian. So, how could it depart from the body?

    Driven by a fierce hunger, Sun Xiaoqi¡¯s simple mindset actually made it easier to glimpse the Celestial ways.

    This underscored the importance of a sincere heart.

    Many people tended to oveplicate things, their minds cluttered with too many thoughts, their spirits in turmoil, inadvertently shackling themselves.

    So, from Sun Xiaoqi¡¯s <em>advice</em>, Yun Xiao grasped a second clue. That was to simplify. To let one¡¯s thoughts and desires be straightforward and focused, like an infant fixated on a curious toy.

    In that instant, in his world, there was only that one thing; all else was an empty nothingness. Suddenly, he seemed to have a direction. So, he sat down on a dark blue stone outside the city gates, facing the direction from which the light of the Celestial Sourcecore was soon toe.

    There was still some time before dawn!He closed his eyes to nurture his spirit, adjusting his thoughts, now perceiving the world not with his senses, but with his spirit. With sight, hearing, taste, and smell shut off, the spirit became his sole perception.

    In his true mortal guise, Yun Xiao gazed upon his white Worldly Dao Heart, the vast Primordial Sacred Wheel, the Nine Suns Dantian, and the channels connecting to the Nine Heavens Star Meridians¡­

    At this moment, Yun Xiao felt as though he had returned to his days in the Cloud Nation. The spirit¡¯s hands, feet, and torso¡­ were all his true self. What was real, and what was illusion? For now, none of that mattered. Viewing the world through his astral self, his entire universe was the body of the Creator Immortal.

    ¡°To step out from the body of the Creator Immortal is to truly enter the cosmos.¡±

    When Yun Xiao saw his body as a shackle, a true longing emerged. This desire, sudden and fierce, was several times stronger than Sun Xiaoqi''s craving for roasted chicken.

    It sprang from Yun Xiao¡¯s puzzlement over his own situation, a yearning for all the secrets of the Creator Immortal. Though his Creator Immortal body had lifted him to the heavens, he felt his true self was locked within it.

    He wished, after his rebirth, to truly see the world with his own eyes! This longing was like a caged bird''s desire for the forest. It was a wild yearning for freedom, like that of the mythical beast gone mad.

    His spirit gazed fiercely at everything around him¡ªDantian, flesh, skin¡ªall seemed likeyers of worldly barriers, shackles each one!

    From his gaze sparked a powerful desire and fighting spirit, igniting into a fierce ze that spread throughout his body.

    This mundane fire, perhaps ordinary, was yet pure and steadfast, reflecting Yun Xiao''s relentless pursuit over more than a decade.

    The spirit clenched its fists, bathed in its own mes, screaming and roaring inside, waiting for the Celestial Sourcecore to bring daylight.

    His body on the blue stone, outwardly calm as the stone itself, contained a spirit aze like a wildfire, spreading through the Dantian, channels, flesh, and skin.

    ¡°I¡­¡± The mundane spirit, with all its mental focus, intensely observed the Creator Immortal body that imprisoned it.

    ¡°I am the Creator Immortal! But, I am also Yun Xiao! Today, I will use my own eyes to truly see the path of the Immortal!¡± As this thought exploded, sweeping through his body, the long-awaited moment finally arrived.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The tail of the dark celestial canvas swept over him, unleashing a torrent of Celestial Sourcecore power like wild horses breaking free. And it was like an army on the charge!

    When the fiery force of the Celestial Sourcecore struck Yun Xiao''s body, he understood why the moment of dawn was so suited for the spirit''s departure.

    Because both were about breaking free, exploding forth, exuberantly unchained!

    As the explosive power of the Celestial Sourcecore collided with Yun Xiao''s body, his spirit beheld the fierce light of the true cosmos!

    It was like a brightmp!

    It showed Yun Xiao''s spirit the way.

    "Break!" Yun Xiao''s mortal spirit, driven by a fierce ze of intent, rushed headlong toward that bright beacon, as madly as Sun Xiaoqi once charged at a roast chicken. But her intent was but a fraction of Yun Xiao''s!

    <em>BOOM! </em>In an instant, it was as if he shattered ayer of paper that had never been there, and his spirit suddenly found itself in a searing, radiant world.

    The true heat of it was hard to bear. His spirit shielded its eyes, suspended in midair, bewildered...

    "Uh." Gradually, as the dawn''s explosion passed and day properly arrived, everything settled down to normalcy.

    Yun Xiao looked down. What he saw was a small figure, misty and white. Looking forward, a stunningly handsome young man in white sat calmly on the blue stone, his eyes tightly shut.

    "Whew..." The spirit exhaled, the fierce fire around him slowly rxed, and then a smile appeared on his face.

    "I have sessfully separated my spirit."

    This meant he could now observe the world from the perspective of his spirit.

    His spirit could absorb the spiritual forces of heaven and earth, strengthening itself through a process of inhtion and exhtion, together with his Worldly Dao Heart, controlling the celestial power within his Dantian.

    The departure of the spirit was a fortifying process, like a newborn''s first cry, beginning to draw in the strength it needed on its own.

    With a thought, Yun Xiao''s spirit returned to the Dantian!

    It merged into the spinning Primordial Sacred Wheel, sparking a new transformation of celestial power within the solidifying Sacred Wheel¡ªmore robust, vast, and now, forming a new integration with the spirit!

    From then on, Yun Xiao''s power included the strength of the spirit!

    Possessing the power of the spirit, the celestial power seemed to have its own intelligence, easier to control, more adept at drawing on the forces of heaven and earth, and smoother in handling formations, magic treasures, and sigils.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    A new power, named True Celestial Power! From Yin-Yang Celestial Power to True Celestial Power, this was a leap in the tiers of power.

    Although this leap did not imply a surge in destructive force, its impact on an Immortal was lifelong. Without crossing this threshold, one could never truly be considered an Immortal!

    Never could they ascend to the true ranks of the Immortal path!

    But now, Yun Xiao had ascended.

    From then on, within his Dantian, a triangr power system formed¡ªDao Heart at the core, Sacred Wheel as the foundation, and the Genesis Spirit merging both, connecting soul and essence!

    A strong spirit and Dao Heart bolstered the Sacred Wheel, allowing realms to be broken through.

    "The initial stage of spirit projection is also the initial stage of true immortality." Yun Xiao could feel it. The leap from Yang Immortal to True Immortal didn''t dramatically increase hisbat strength, but the essential transformation was significant.

    "Is this the difference between an Immortal and a mortal?" Yun Xiao was still somewhat perplexed.

    He knew this transformation was profound, but it still didn''t seem enoughpared to themon mortal understanding of the vast gap between gods and the popce.

    "You should discard the thinking of Immortals and mortals. In thedder of the Immortal path, Immortal is always a concept of ascending, not just a specific group," Blue Star advised.

    "I don''t quite understand." Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Within the path to Immortality, it''s not just mortals and Immortals, one below and one above. It isposed of cultivators at many different levels. Rather than dividing between mortals and Immortals, I suggest you consider Dao Tribtions as the urate measure," Blue Star exined.

    "I understand." Yun Xiao nodded. "In short, the difference between a True Immortal and a Yang Immortal is simr to the leap between the First and Second Dao Tribtions."

    In other words, categorizing cultivators as mere mortals and Immortals was an oversimplification, imprecise, born from the conjectures of mortals and the arrogance of Immortals.

    The real distinction should be based on which Dao Tribtion the cultivator was facing.

    That was the precise and professional way.

    "So you''re saying, now that I''ve be a True Immortal, there''s still a long way to go on thisdder?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Blue Star smirked and said, "At the very least, you are unfathomably far from bing a Cosmic Immortal. You¡¯ve got plenty of climbing to do."

    "Understood!"

    The vastness of the cosmos and the infinity of the universe were beyond mortalprehension.

    "It''s because it''s so majestic and sublime that this path is interesting!"

    To Yun Xiao, bing a True Immortal was a new beginning.

    "Spirit projection..." Yun Xiao gradually mastered this process, soon able to have his spirit and his true self face each other, both with open eyes.

    His spirit saw the divine visage of the Creator Immortal.

    And his eyes saw himself from the previous sixteen years.

    "Which one is the real me?"

    Yun Xiao was momentarily bewildered. But he knew that his newly departed spirit was in a fragile state, constantly departing drained his energy, and if it strayed too far from his true self, it might even dissipate.

    The Spirit Manifestation Realm was the true battlefield for the spirit.

    "My spirit is mortal, and my ancestors in the Cloud Nation couldn¡¯t even count as cultivators. What kind of ancestral traits might resurface in me?"

    This thought gave Yun Xiao a headache.

    The Spirit Manifestation Realm seemed far away, yet he had already taken the hardest step. Maybe in a couple of days, he would reach it.

    "Never mind, as long as it''s not a turtle," Yun Xiao said with a wry smile.

    Roaming the heavens and earth with his spirit indeed added a sense, making it easier for True Immortals to detect nearby enemies, scents, and the faintest traces.

    For instance, right now, his spirit could see Sun Xiaoqi stealthily watching him from behind, murmuring to herself, "So handsome, I really want to touch him."

    "Cough, cough!" Yun Xiao hastily retracted his spirit. He stood up! His muscles and bones snapped crisply.

    After taking the hardest step, two things came to mind.

    "With my experience, my body double and blood ve can also strive for the spirit departure state. Pale Revenant is stuck there too; she''s smart, I should teach her."

    But how to use them next, Yun Xiao hadn''t decided. The Celestial Court, at least, was a world where demons were not allowed; Moon Fairy and Pale Revenant couldn¡¯te.

    Anyway, spirit departure first!

    "Here in the Celestial Court, everyone is a top Seed of Creation, but they still haven''t surpassed those of Ye Xingchen and Ling Chen. I just need to keep absorbing these Seeds to stimte my Nine Suns Dantian and Nine Heavens Star Meridians," Yun Xiao muttered to himself.

    He had always been doing this, like the Primordial Martial Furnace on the martial cultivation side, it was also continuously being updated.

    "There''s one that could match those two Seeds," Blue Star suddenly said.

    "Who?" Yun Xiao asked.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 533: Spirit Attribute Seed of Creation!

    Chapter 533: Spirit Attribute Seed of Creation!

    As the question was asked, he had already guessed who it was.

    "The Greatest War God of the Celestial Court, Chaos Sovereign Lu Fan," Blue Star said coldly.

    "Is he the first Spirit attribute Seed of Creation we''ve encountered?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "Yes, indeed rare," Blue Star licked his lips. "I''m curious what his soul vessel really is; it''s rather peculiar."

    "We''ll meet him again," Yun Xiao said.

    Thinking of this man, and then of Miss Yu, Lu An, and Lu Yao... Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Making a fortune and then abandoning his wife and children, what kind of man does that?"

    Yun Xiao was speechless. He didn''t dwell on it further, turning back to join Sun Xiaoqi.

    "Feeling any signs of transcendence?" Sun Xiaoqi asked."I''ve already transcended," Yun Xiao smiled. "When we return to Sky Soaring City, I''ll treat you to a meal."

    "You transcended?" Sun Xiaoqi was shocked. "How? What did you desire?"

    "I am a lecher, so I thought to go out and see more beauties," Yun Xiao said.

    "Damn," Sun Xiaoqi clutched her breastte and stepped back, her face a mask of disbelief.

    "Rx, you''re safe." Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Get lost." Sun Xiaoqi puckered her lips and red. She knew Yun Xiao was just joking.

    The two lingered by the city gates.

    As dawn broke, Sangju City stirred to life. But the city''s guards had already mobilized; they had sealed the city the night before, and now no one could leave.

    The citizens were baffled. Amid their confusion, the news that three Arbiters had been hanged at the city gates could not be contained. It spread like wildfire throughout the city.

    The Arbiters had been in by a murderer!

    This news terrified the people, and panic spread throughout the city, throwing it into chaos.

    During this turmoil, Lu Changfeng had no choice but to step forward and reassure the citizens publicly, announcing that the Skyruler Immortal Manor was taking the murders in Sangju City very seriously, and new Arbiters would arrive soon.

    He even promised the people that by dawn the next day, the true culprit would be exposed!

    And so, Sangju City was finally calmed.

    Yet beneath the surface, currents of unrest still swirled.

    At the peak of daylight, when the Celestial Sourcecore''s power was immense, Yun Xiao, finding himself running low on True Immortal Jades, took the opportunity to use thest of it to consolidate his cultivation.

    Just as noon approached, the eagerly awaited reinforcements arrived!

    The sound of the Skyruler Sword Vessels tearing through the sky interrupted Yun Xiao¡¯s meditation.

    The neers arrived with grandeur. Lu Changfeng cast a cold nce towards Yun Xiao, who, sensing the significance, joined Sun Xiaoqi to greet them.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    With a ngorous echo, 11 Skyruler Sword Vessels descended from the heavens, embedding themselves into the rocky terrain before Sangju City.

    As the doors opened, 11 Arbiters stepped out with a presence so formidable it subdued the entire assembly. Their deep aura and powerful demeanormanded respect, particrly from the lesser officials of Sangju City led by Lu Qian.

    Lu Qian, the originator of the disasters, tensed with recognition of the arrivals.

    "Indeed, it¡¯s Jiang Lanyue and his team," Sun Xiaoqi muttered, shrinking back in fear.

    "Jiang Lanyue?" Yun Xiao looked over and saw among them a young man at the center, whose demeanor was more righteous than Lu Changfeng, yet his eyes were colder, suggesting deeper schemes.

    ¡°Remember, the governor of Sky Soaring City is surnamed Jiang.¡±

    This indicated that this Jiang Lanyue was very likely from the ruling family of the city, and an Arbiter as well.

    In terms of rank, he wasparable to Lu Changfeng. However, the ten he brought with him were significantly stronger than the five Arbiters apanying Lu Changfeng, mostly at the Establishment True Immortal Realm, nearing the Essence Manifestation Realm!

    ¡°Lanyue!¡± Lu Changfeng and his followers stepped forward to meet them.

    ¡°Changfeng.¡± Jiang Lanyue advanced, ncing at Sangju City, and spoke, ¡°I¡¯ve nearly grasped the specifics of the trouble here through the flying talisman. Do you have a n now?¡±

    Lu Changfeng surveyed the surroundings and said, ¡°Let¡¯s step aside to discuss.¡±

    Jiang Lanyue nodded.

    Together with Lu Qian, they headed towards the city gates.

    Yun Xiao, Sun Xiaoqi, and the ten Arbiters remained where they were.

    "You two are the weakest; howe you''re not dead yet?" a female Arbiter scoffed with a chillyugh.

    "Well... the killer only takes out three each night," Sun Xiaoqi replied with an awkward smile.

    "Then maybe tonight it''ll be your turn," the female Arbiter said.

    Laughter broke out among herrades, who seemed quite at ease.

    While talking, they gave Yun Xiao a few assessing nces.

    "I hear you snagged the team leader position from Zhao Cheng, infuriating him so much he got isted and killed?" the female Arbiter asked.

    "The position was given by Deputy Changfeng," Yun Xiao replied earnestly.

    Theirughter erupted again.

    ...?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the distance, Lu Changfeng, Lu Qian, and Jiang Lanyue stood with grim expressions.

    "Changfeng, three Arbiters are dead. Even if you manage to catch the true culprit, it''s still going to affect your promotion to Rank 8," Jiang Lanyue said, shaking his head.

    "Nothing to be done at this point but to try and fix it as best as we can." Lu Changfeng sighed.

    "Tell me the truth, were those nine people and the three Arbiters killed by the same person?" Jiang Lanyue asked sternly. "If you don''t tell the truth, I can''t help you."

    Lu Changfeng clenched his teeth.

    Lu Qian lowered her head.

    "Alright, I know you''ve made a mess of things, and now you''ve been outyed," Jiang Lanyue pped Lu Changfeng on the head. "Learn your lesson!"

    "It''s my fault. The young master was just trying to help me," Lu Qian quickly admitted in shame.

    "Useless!" Jiang Lanyue red at Lu Qian before turning back to Lu Changfeng. "There''s no point in assigning me now. Just tell me, do you have any suspects?"

    "Yes!" Lu Changfeng said.

    "Who?" Jiang Lanyue asked.

    "Lu Yao," Lu Changfeng stated confidently.

    Jiang Lanyue and Lu Qian both paused, then turned their gazes towards Yun Xiao in the distance.

    "Are you certain?" Jiang Lanyue asked.

    "I mean, he might not be capable himself, but he definitely has someone behind him. And this person, they''re looking to trouble me," Lu Changfeng said coldly.

    Jiang Lanyue furrowed his brow. "Without evidence, it¡¯s tough to pin everything on an Arbiter."

    "So, did you bring it? The Heartburn Gu!" Lu Changfeng inquired.

    "I did. Cost me a good deal of celestial jade," Jiang Lanyue replied.

    "How much? I''ll pay you now," Lu Changfeng said.

    "Let''s settle itter. What''s your n with it?" Jiang Lanyue asked.

    "Feed it to Lu Yao. Let him endure the agony of his heart burning without dying, to force whoever''s behind him to show themselves," Lu Changfeng dered.

    "Are you sure there''s someone behind him?" Jiang Lanyue questioned.

    "I''m certain," Lu Changfeng paused. "By himself, he couldn''t have taken down Zhao Cheng."

    "On what basis are you so sure?" Jiang Lanyue pressed.

    "Just trust me on this." Lu Changfeng couldn¡¯t reveal that Lu Yao was an imposter likely backed by an organization, so he resorted to a firm stance.

    "Alright," Jiang Lanyue, ever cautious, pondered a moment. "But most importantly, what if the person behind him is stronger than us, and we can¡¯t capture him? Wouldn¡¯t that be dangerous?"

    "The three of us are at the Essence Manifestation Realm; surely that suffices?" Lu Changfeng paused, then added, "If ites to it, we''ll just throw Lu Yao into a magic formation. We won''t show ourselves. If the opponent proves too powerful, we¡¯ll just record their identity with a Projection Orb and let the Skyruler Immortal Manor handle it."

    Jiang Lanyue nodded. "That could work. Even if it¡¯s a strong figure, just appearing here uninvited, even if they didn¡¯t kill Zhao Cheng, we can still pin it on them."

    "It won''t be thatplicated. We can probably take them down and close the case," Lu Changfeng said coldly.

    "So you''re that sure it has something to do with Lu Yao?" Jiang Lanyue asked, pursing his lips.

    "Certain!" Lu Changfeng nodded.

    "Your reason?"

    "A man''s precise intuition!" Lu Changfeng concluded with a smirk. "Even if this person doesn¡¯t show, Lu Yao¡¯s poor judgment led to the deaths of threerades. Punishing him a bit won¡¯t hurt, right? Besides, he doesn¡¯t even know what a Heartburn Gu is."

    "So we move tonight? I¡¯ll prepare the formation." Lu Qian, too, was eager to resolve the matter.

    Jiang Lanyue pondered for a moment and finally nodded. "We¡¯ve already bought the Gu, let¡¯s do it!"

 Chapter 534: Im The Murderer!

    Chapter 534: I''m The Murderer!

    Night had fallen again over the Great Dao Celestial Realm, cloaking the sky in an inky ckness that seemed to turn full circle in a mere 12 hours. To Yun Xiao, the day had passed in the blink of an eye.

    A dark curtain swept over from beneath, engulfing Sangju City like a gaping maw of shadows.

    Having just consolidated his cultivation in the True Immortal Realm, Yun Xiao caught a flying talisman that dropped into his hand. It was a small, tinum charm made of rune-etched paper, a lesser magic treasure used for celestial messaging¡ªa convenient tool frequently used within the ranks of the Skyruler Immortal Manor''s Arbiters.

    The higher the quality of the talisman, the farther and more urately it could fly, so it was said.

    Sun Xiaoqi also received one. Gripping the talismans, they watched as the papers ignited, revealing a line of fiery script, "The murderer has been spotted at Splinter Mountain to the west. All Arbiters, convene immediately!"

    "Lu Yao, the murderer has been found!" Sun Xiaoqi ran up to him, urgency written across her face.

    "Found just as night falls?" Yun Xiao''s lips curled into a slight smile before asking Sun Xiaoqi, "This murderer is so formidable, what use is our going there? Can we just... not?"

    "That¡¯s absolutely out of the question. It''s an order via talisman; you dare defy it?" Sun Xiaoqi clicked her tongue in disapproval.

    "Alright then." Yun Xiao rose, turning westward toward the city with Sun Xiaoqi shadowing him. They blended into the night, speeding off into the darkness.Tonight, Sangju City was under lockdown, devoid of even the night patrols of the evening before. Even the nightly businesses had shuttered their doors.

    As they hurried along, Sun Xiaoqi clung close to Yun Xiao, whispering weakly, "You were right. The three in the Essence Manifestation Realm might manage the capture, but we''ll only add numbers, nothing more."

    "And so?" Yun Xiao nced at her.

    "I helped you ascend to true immortality; your power is greater, you must protect me," Sun Xiaoqi pleaded anxiously.

    Put simply, she was too frightened to disobey, but also terrified of the murderer to the core.

    "Don''t worry." Yun Xiao chuckled. "I''ll teach you a trick that guarantees survival."

    "Tell me," she urged eagerly.

    "Just wait for the murderer to y three, then show your face. What trouble could you find then?" Yun Xiao suggested.

    "That makes sense. Let''s bothy low together," Sun Xiaoqiughed naively.

    As they spoke, they moved through the deserted streets, where not even the light dared show its face anymore.

    Aheady the mountains!

    "This Splinter Mountain is a deste area within the vicinity of Sangju City, seldom visited by anyone¡­"

    The ce was shrouded in eerie darkness, causing Sun Xiaoqi to cling closer to Yun Xiao out of growing anxiety. However, her nerves eased slightly when she spotted other Arbiters also heading toward Splinter Mountain.

    "Everyone''s been called here!" Sun Xiaoqi looked ahead, "A dozen Arbiters to capture just one murderer. I wonder who this person really is."

    "I''m curious too," Yun Xiao said.

    As they drew nearer, a deep valley appeared before them, nked on the left by a high peak.

    Atop this peak stood three figures, two noble-looking young men and a charming woman in a floral robe¡ªJiang Lanyue, Lu Changfeng, and Lu Qian.

    Lu Qian held a greenpass in her hand, its surface flickering with shadows and light, hinting at figures moving within.

    "Twelve people have passed the outer circle formation and entered the valley¡ªall Arbiters," Lu Qian said coolly, looking up at the two men.

    "Is Lu Yao among them?" Lu Changfeng asked intently.

    "He''s with Sun Xiaoqi," Lu Qian confirmed.

    "Is the maze activated?" Jiang Lanyue inquired.

    "It''s activated. Easy to enter, hard to leave." Lu Qian looked down at the valley and continued earnestly, "As soon as someone else enters the maze, I''ll know right away and can inform you via talisman within ten breaths."

    "Then, have your men test the intruder¡¯s strength. If they can be captured, do it," Lu Changfeng confirmed with Jiang Lanyue.

    "Agreed." Jiang Lanyue nodded, then instructed Lu Qian, "Remember, once someone else enters, notify us immediately, regardless of whether we know them or how strong they are."

    "Definitely." Lu Qian nodded firmly. "I¡¯ve controlled this formation for years, you can rely on me."

    Now that all the Arbiters had arrived below, Jiang Lanyue, taking the lead with Lu Changfeng, descended into the valley.

    Upon reaching the valley, Jiang Lanyue''s expression turned icy. He spoke in a hushed tone, "Well, have we found the murderer?"

    One by one, Arbiters gathered from the shadows.

    "Not yet."

    "We haven¡¯t seen them either."

    Hearing this, Jiang Lanyue grew visibly irate, "Impossible. Keep searching; they must still be nearby."

    "Commander Lanyue, what does the murderer look like? Have you seen them?" one Arbiter asked.

    "In Splinter Mountain, aside from Lu Qian, anyone without Arbiter armor is the murderer. Do we still need characteristics?" Jiang Lanyue said coldly.

    "Yes."

    The group dispersed again, searching in teams. Theybed through Splinter Mountain so thoroughly it was as if they turned it upside down.

    "There''s really no one! Are you sure he''s hiding here?" the Arbiters returned, dejected.

    Jiang Lanyue and Lu Changfeng descended and scanned the crowd.

    Lu Changfeng''s face was grim. "He definitely came this way!"

    "Why can''t we find him?" Jiang Lanyue frowned.

    Lu Changfeng''s gaze turned icy as he looked around. "It means we have a traitor among us, who warned the target, letting him slip away!"

    "A traitor?"

    At this, including Yun Xiao and Sun Xiaoqi, all 12 Arbiters were startled.

    "After receiving the talisman, the three of us were together the whole time; we can vouch for each other," one female Arbiter spoke up.

    "We were together too!"

    "And us!"

    The ten Arbiters under Jiang Lanyue''smand quickly testified for themselves.

    "I¡ªI and Lu Yao were also inseparable. We couldn''t possibly have tipped off the murderer," Sun Xiaoqi hastily raised her hand.

    For a moment, there was silence.

    Lu Changfeng''s gaze grew even colder. Suddenly, he asked, "Who do you think could be the traitor among our Arbiter ranks? Speak freely, it''s alright."

    Hearing this, the female Arbiter immediately looked at Yun Xiao and said chillingly, "Last night, three Arbiters died, yet the weakest among them survived. And the one who arranged for Zhao Cheng to be alone was him! If there''s a traitor, it must be this man!"

    "Right!"

    Instantly, all ten Arbiters turned their unfriendly gazes towards Yun Xiao.

    "Even if Lu Yao isn''t the traitor, he definitely manipted the situationst night to kill by proxy!"

    "He must be involved with the murderer, there''s some kind of gain being exchanged."

    As each spoke, they drifted apart, slowly encircling Yun Xiao.

    "Not true¡­" Sun Xiaoqi hurriedly shook her head. "How could that be? Lu Yao is from Deputy Changfeng¡¯s family, and he was indeed with me just now. Could it be that there''s no traitor, and the murderer just sensed danger and fled early?"

    "Silence!" Lu Changfeng barked, then turned a disappointed gaze towards Yun Xiao and said coldly, "Lu Yao, you belong to my Lu Immortal Manor, and I must hold you ountable for your actions. If you are the traitor, confess now. If you repent in time, Skyruler Immortal Manor might be lenient."

    As he spoke, he clutched a bottle in his robe. Inside was a Heartburn Gu. He knew Yun Xiao would never confess, and next, he could justifiably use the Gu to torture him into confessing. This way, even if Yun Xiao revealed nothing, his actions would still seem justified.

    After all, his true intent was to torture Yun Xiao, to force the real murderer to surface!

    The term <em>traitor</em> was just a convenient excuse for sanctioned cruelty.

    "Lu Yao! You are of a family of Arbiters and martyrs, do not ruin your family¡¯s honor and reputation over a moment of folly!" the female Arbiter warned.

    Everyone was pressing him!

    Seeing this, Sun Xiaoqi, anxious and burning inside, dared not speak but only tugged at Yun Xiao, "You, you must prove your innocence."

    Yun Xiao¡¯s calm face suddenly cracked a smile.

    "Everyone, I, Lu Yao, am not the traitor." After saying this, he turned to Lu Changfeng with a chilling tone, "I am the murderer."

    Lu Changfeng, who was ready with the Heartburn Gu upon hearing his initial denial, froze at the deration, "I''m the murderer," leaving everyone momentarily stupefied.

    "What did you say?" Lu Changfeng raised an eyebrow, hardly believing his ears.

    "I am powerful enough now to reveal the truth; I''m done pretending. I killed them all," Yun Xiao said with a coldugh.

    "What?" Sun Xiaoqi looked baffled, "Lu Yao, don''t talk nonsense; speaking recklessly is also a grave sin¡­"

    "Step aside!" Lu Changfeng red fiercely at Sun Xiaoqi, then sneered at Yun Xiao.

    He waved his hand to the ten Arbiters, "He has confessed, take him down!"

    "Yes!" The ten Arbiters, faces covered with frost, had already surrounded Yun Xiao. Upon themand, eager for credit, they all attacked at once, moving to apprehend Yun Xiao.

    "Ah!" Sun Xiaoqi eximed in panic.

    "Lu Yao, your looks are wasted on you!" The female Arbiter, close at hand, struck like thunder and lightning, reaching for Yun Xiao¡¯s face.

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao spoke, a sh of cold light darting through his eyes.

    With a flick of his wrist, a streak of azure light sted out, shooting across the dark night in a blur.

    <em>POP! POP! POP! </em>In the night breeze, ten sounds burst forth in quick session.

    The azure light, like a quivering star, danced elegantly around, tracing a circr path around Yun Xiao!

    In the next instant, the azure light returned to his palm.

    It was smeared with some red and white matter, which was quickly absorbed.

    The world seemed to fall silent for a moment.

    The ten Arbiters around him stood as if frozen.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>All ten copsed simultaneously, stirring up the dirt with their armor.

    "AHHH!" Sun Xiaoqi screamed as if struck by lightning.

    She looked down! Each of the fallen Arbiters had their left eye popped open, and a bloody hole in the back of their heads. The twisted, horrified expressions on each face were like daggers piercing through Sun Xiaoqi¡¯s galldder. She was petrified by the scene!

    Trembling, she looked up to see the young man in white armor pinching a three-inch Sword Soul between his fingers, raising an eyebrow towards Lu Changfeng and Jiang Lanyue, and slowly said, "I told you, I am the murderer. You still didn''t believe me in your hearts."

    "Ah!" Lu Changfeng suddenly shouted, stepping back three paces, staring at Yun Xiao with eyes full of disbelief.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om</blockquote>

 Chapter 535: Justice For Lu Yao!

    Chapter 535: Justice For Lu Yao!

    During the day, Lu Changfeng had used his spirit guardian to probe Yun Xiao!

    At that time, Yun Xiao''s spirit had not yet emerged. So, it was natural to assume he was too weak to be the culprit.

    However, Lu Changfeng also knew that Yun Xiao was not the real Lu Yao!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Even the Madame had brushed Yun Xiao off as a freeloader!

    Yet now, after having just ascended to true immortality, Yun Xiao had instantly in ten Arbiters at the Establishment True Immortal Realm!

    "Changfeng!" Jiang Lanyue suddenly seized Lu Changfeng''s arm, his expression looking grim.

    All ten Arbiters under him were dead! Such a case had not urred in the Thunder Department of the Skyruler Immortal Manor for centuries! It unfolded right under their noses. The situation was beyond control now!

    Jiang Lanyue, ever cautious, did not wish to engage closely without knowing the truebat strength of the murderer.

    Who could have guessed the real culprit was this seemingly harmlessmb before them?Their shock was akin to a smallmb suddenly baring vast jaws and savagely killing ten lions!

    "There''s something eerie about this man; don¡¯t engage him. Record everything with a projection orb, let the Skyruler Immortal Manor handle him!" Jiang Lanyue made what he thought was the right call in an instant.

    "He''s not that strong; I can kill him!" Lu Changfeng eximed, eyes zing with fury. A mere lowlife had yed him for a fool; how could he, the young master of the Lu Immortal Manor, just stand by?

    "Then you fight; I''m leaving!" Jiang Lanyue dered, and immediately took off.

    "Damn it!" Lu Changfeng cursed, almost biting his tongue, and after casting a final re at Yun Xiao, he turned and followed Jiang Lanyue.

    "Did I say you could leave?"

    A cold, mocking voice rang by Lu Changfeng¡¯s ear.

    "Flying Sword!"

    A chill ran down Lu Changfeng¡¯s spine. As a Sword Cultivator, he knew all too well the peril of exposing one''s back to another swordsman!

    He spun around violently, a dark turquoise coloured Sword Soul appearing in his hand, instantly transforming into a three-foot-long sword, shing with Yun Xiao¡¯s Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul was sent flying!

    "Damn it!" Jiang Lanyue had made some distance, but this act left him profoundly uneasy.

    Just as he thought he had avoided a risk, the violet Runic Umbre suddenly swept in from the side, slicing towards his neck!

    "Life Sigil?" Jiang Lanyue was startled, swiftly tracing a silver crescent moon in the air with his hands, blocking the onught of the umbre! Though unharmed, he was forcibly halted.

    <em>SWOOSH! </em>The young man in white, stepping on the night breeze, appeared before Jiang Lanyue, taunting, "A descendant of the governor of Sky Soaring City, offspring of a Rank 5 Immortal, fleeing without a fight¡ªhow utterly disgraceful!"

    "You!" Jiang Lanyue red at him furiously. In truth, he wasn''t afraid; he simply believed that Yun Xiao harbored unknown powers, and he was unwilling to risk his own safety on behalf of Lu Changfeng.

    But now, provoked by Yun Xiao''s mockery, as a hot-blooded scion of a high-ranking Immortal lineage, Jiang Lanyue''s eyes narrowed, and he could no longer hold back!

    "Afraid to fight, yet dreaming of calling for help?" Yun Xiao sneered coldly.

    "Jiang Lanyue, stop embarrassing yourself and kill him! Otherwise, I''ll lose all respect for you!" Lu Changfeng also burst with rage.

    "Shut up!" A tidal wave of anger surged within Jiang Lanyue. He retreated, standing shoulder to shoulder with Lu Changfeng, silent now, but resolved to no longer avoid battle.

    "This, this..." Sun Xiaoqi watched the unfolding scene that surpassed her imagination, looking utterly stupefied.

    Within her bewildered gaze, Yun Xiao shed violently with the two prospective Rank 8 Arbiter Commanders in the deste valley!

    Lu Changfeng''s Sword Soul, known as the Spectral Wind Sword Soul, was predominantly turquoise green, dotted with ck spots that were actually whirlpool phoenix pools, capable of absorbing the wind of heaven and earth!

    Though a Sword Soul, it struck like a fan, creating tempests with each swing!

    The Sword Soul was of high quality, adorned with nine Demon Immortal Sword Rings, their power far surpassing that of the Dreamsea Abalones.

    Indeed, Lu Changfeng was formidable!

    Jiang Lanyue, an expert Inscription Cultivator, wielded the Silver Moon Sigil that was no less powerful than the Spectral Wind Sword Soul. In his hands, this sigil shimmered like a crescent!

    Interestingly, Lu Changfeng and Jiang Lanyue''s Sword Aurayer and Rune count was also stuck at 9,999,999, just shy of 10,000,000, matching that of Yun Xiao.

    Beyond the two''s Sword Souls and Life Sigils, their most unfamiliar powers were the manifestations of their spirit forms!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Beside Lu Changfeng, his spirit guardian took form, wielding the power to shatter heavens and earth!

    Jiang Lanyue¡¯s spirit, known as the Crimson Moon Spirit, took the form of a blood-red moon, casting scarlet rays that enveloped him.

    "Pr cier!" Jiang Lanyue summoned a celestial treasure that resembled an iceberg. When he merged the Silver Moon Sigil into it, it turned silver and shimmered with intensified power.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The colossal iceberg pressed down on Yun Xiao, the Crimson Moon Spirit spreading wide, dragging the entire valley into a sea of blood as countless streams of crimson surged forth.

    Simultaneously, Lu Changfeng, wielding his Sword Soul and guardian spirit, charged furiously at Yun Xiao.

    "Lu Changfeng..." Yun Xiao suddenly turned, his coldugh cutting through, "Did you know? It was actually me that killed Xiaolu!"

    "You!" Lu Changfeng, not grieving for his little sister, felt only the sting of being toyed with by Yun Xiao.

    "Die!" His Spectral Wind Sword Soul vibrated. Thousands of vortices swirled as his sword pierced through numerous wind tunnels¡ªthis was the famed Typhoon Piercer of the Lu Immortal Manor, a true celestial technique.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao nced, his Heaven Burial Sword Soul weaving through mysterious trajectories. As the sword vibrated, waves of wind blossomed upon it, instantly creating an evenrger wind tunnel.

    The two mighty Typhoon Piercers shed like behemoth storms biting at each other!

    "What?" Lu Changfeng reeled, eyes widening.

    "Don''t worry. There''s still more surprises toe!" Yun Xiao scoffed coldly.

    Spinning the violet Runic Umbre with one hand, Yun Xiao blocked the crushing forces of the giant iceberg and guardian spirit. Meanwhile, the other hand wielded the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to overpower Lu Changfeng!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Lu Changfeng''s Typhoon Piercer copsed, and he was flung back! His Arbiter armor was torn asunder as he mmed hard into the ground.

    "W-what the hell is this power¡­?"

    Lu Changfeng''s face paled. "Jiang¡­"

    Then, he looked up, only to see Yun Xiao already shing with Jiang Lanyue.

    "No good! If we die here, none of the crimes this kidmitted wille to light!"

    At that moment, Lu Changfeng truly felt fear. Previously, he had scorned Jiang Lanyue''s cowardice, but now, witnessing hispanion''s desperate fight, he gritted his teeth and turned to flee!

    "Lu Changfeng!" This scene nearly drove Jiang Lanyue to spit blood in fury.

    "Focus on the fight."

    Suddenly, an icy voice echoed from behind.

    Jiang Lanyue''s spine chilled abruptly; he spun around, the Silver Moon Sigil coalescing in his hand. But when he turned, only the spinning Runic Umbre was behind him!

    "Eh?" As Jiang Lanyue spun back in horror, an azure sword ripped through the air, piercing his eye and exiting the other side! "Ahh!! You¡­!"

    With a squelch, Yun Xiao swiftly withdrew his Sword Soul, and Jiang Lanyue slowly knelt down.

    A prospective Arbiter Commander was in just like that!

    As Yun Xiao withdrew the sword, he didn''t pause; he sped off on his six-foot Sovereign Sword.

    "The maze! Lu Qian, quickly remove the maze!" Not realizing until he fled, Lu Changfeng almost fainted from anger.

    Why was the maze still there? He plunged into it, utterly losing his way.

    In the next instant, Yun Xiao appeared behind him, his gaze cold.

    "L-let¡¯s talk this out peacefully." Lu Changfeng shivered all over, quickly saying, "Lu Yao, I can give you anything, we have no quarrels or grievances! Lu Qian is the real murderer, she did it for a True Immortal Jade Mine!"

    "What did you just call me?" Yun Xiao asked.

    ".." Lu Changfeng froze.

    "Both you and I know what happened to the real Lu Yao. The cruelty of the Immortal path crushed his dreams, I assumed his identity to seek justice. The moment I saw you, You were a dead man!" Yun Xiao said.

    "No, no, no!" Lu Changfeng''s face was a mask of misery, about to say more, but Yun Xiao made his move!

    <em>BOOM! </em>His Runic Umbre fell from the sky like a giant shield, pinning Lu Changfeng¡¯s guardian spirit, while his Flying Sword, glittering with the fire of azure stars, tore through the heavens in a stroke of rage!

    "Lu Yao!" Yun Xiao called out his name, then dered with satisfaction, "You can rest now."

    With a thrust, Lu Changfeng''s body shuddered thrice in session. Only his right eye remained, filled with fear and despair as he gazed at Yun Xiao, then slowly knelt down.

    Yun Xiao did not spare him a nce; his figure shed, and he returned to the valley.

    "L-Lu Yao..." Sun Xiaoqi copsed to the ground in a panic, staring at the young man.

    Yun Xiao''s Arbiter armor was stained with too much blood, his once handsome face suddenly resembling the grim reaper.

    "Stay put here, don''t go anywhere, understand?" Yun Xiao said.

    "I understand! I understand!" Sun Xiaoqi nodded hastily.

    Yun Xiao then smiled gently, "When we return to Sky Soaring City, I¡¯ll treat you to a feast at the Drunken Immortal Tavern."

    "Okay..." Sun Xiaoqi sobbed.

    Yun Xiao looked into the distance and said, "Tonight, at the gates of Sangju City, 13 bodies will hang."

    "And one of them is me? Oh..." Sun Xiaoqi spasmed with fright. Wasn¡¯t he just offering a feast? Why count her among them! She was still crying when she suddenly realized, Yun Xiao had disappeared.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Atop a high peak¡­

    "Huh?" Lu Qian had been focusing intently on the greenpass, fearful of missing anyone breaking into the formation.

    After a long moment, she finally noticed someone breaking out from inside!

    She quickly controlled the formation to project the scene from that segment of the maze. The images on thepass were blurry, only faintly showing Lu Changfeng entering with another person in pursuit.

    The two started fighting!

    "What''s happening?" Lu Qian''s expression changed; this waspletely off-n.

    "Could something have gone wrong in the valley?"

    With that thought, she couldn¡¯t stay put any longer and hurried towards the valley.

    However, she had to keep an eye on thepass to prevent anyone from entering from the outside, so she moved slowly. As she ran, a white figure suddenly dropped in front of her!

    It was a young man in blood-stained Arbiter armor, holding an azure long sword and smiling at Lu Qian, "Cousin, I hear you own a mine?"

 Chapter 536: For the Sake of a Friend!

    Chapter 536: For the Sake of a Friend!

    "Lu Yao?" Lu Qian''s pupils shrank, her face twisting into an odd expression as she gazed at the youth before her. His face seemed harmless, and painfully handsome at that, but... she noticed the bloodstains on his clothing.

    In Splinter Mountain, there was nothing but blood¡ªalmost always human blood. And tonight, besides herself, the ce was swarming with Arbiters!

    "What did you just ask me?" Lu Qian furrowed her brow, her eyes settling on Yun Xiao with growing unease and irritation. She had heard him mention the True Immortal Jade Mine.

    That was her biggest secret!

    "I said I heard you own a True Immortal Jade Mine." Yun Xiao stepped towards her, his celestial power growing more formidable with each step. Though he was only at the Early True Immortal Realm, the volume of his primordial celestial power was nearing that of the Essence Manifestation Realm.

    "You!" Confusion and suspicion whirled within Lu Qian. Her gaze drifted past Yun Xiao, casting a cold nce behind him, "Where¡¯s the young master? Where¡¯s Jiang Lanyue?"

    Weren''t they supposed to feed Yun Xiao the Heartburn Gu to lure out the people behind him?

    "Dead!" Yun Xiao¡¯s reply was curt, and with a sword in hand, he crossed ten yards in a blink, arriving right in front of Lu Qian.

    "This explosive power¡­" With just one nce, Lu Qian realized the terrifying truth. "There was no one behind him at all; this boy was a wolf in sheep''s clothing!"In that critical moment, Lu Qian suddenly raised herpass. The greenpass spun, transforming into a wall that blocked Yun Xiao.

    "Behind you." In the next instant, a white shadow shed, and Yun Xiao, along with his sword, emerged from the void.

    By the time Lu Qian realized, Yun Xiao¡¯s Heaven Burial Sword Soul was already pressed against her back, the shadow of death looming over her.

    A sensation of decaying, corroding pain spread from the spot on her back.

    She was weaker than Lu Changfeng; it was natural she couldn¡¯t withstand Yun Xiao¡¯s murderous blow.

    "Ah!" Lu Qian¡¯s body stiffened instantly, her face turning deathly pale as cold sweat broke out on her forehead.

    "Tomorrow, the gates of Sangju City will disy thirteen bodies, and you will be thest," Yun Xiao¡¯s voice rose coldly behind her.

    "Lu Yao!" Lu Qian eximed in horror. She understood everything now. A seemingly harmless littlemb had bared its devil-like fangs in Splinter Mountain!

    Before her terror could subside, Lu Qian''s voice trembled, "The mine! I have a mine of True Immortal Jade. It''s untouched, but you don''t know the location!"

    "If I knew where it was, you''d be dead by now," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Right, right. I can take you there... and more!" Lu Qian raised her hand, her delicate body quivering, slowly turning around, her red lips trembling as she spoke, "You''ve killed so many Arbiters, you''ll need to clear your name, right? I can help you!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "You''ve thought this through, huh?" Yun Xiao lifted his chin slightly, his gaze cold as he watched her.

    Lu Qian''s eyes widened at the sight of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul¡¯s tip. Barely daring to breathe, she slowly knelt down, tears brimming in her eyes, her voice pitiful, "I, I want to live, I don''t want to die, as long as I''m alive, I''ll do everything to clear your name."

    "Why should I trust you? What if you meet a higher-ranking Arbiter and report me?" Yun Xiao sneered.

    "I, I..." In her panic, Lu Qian''s mind raced, desperate to offer something that would convince Yun Xiao.

    "You don¡¯t need to think anymore, I have a way to trust you," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "Okay, okay, let''s do it your way," Lu Qian agreed quickly without a second word.

    "That decisive? Seems you really are afraid of dying," Yun Xiao said.

    Lu Qian, tears falling, replied, "Everyone has only one life, who wouldn''t cherish it? Even if there is an afterlife, what if I''m reborn in a mortal realm, or worse, as a pig or a bug, a life of suffering."

    "Aren¡¯t you going to check? What if I lied and Lu Changfeng and the others aren¡¯t really dead?" Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "N-no! I believe you!" Lu Qian, frightened, shook her head. Her intuition told her that those two were indeed gone, dying in despair and disbelief. She refused to follow in their footsteps!

    So, she quickly said, "Lu Yao, whatever you want to do, just do it. Don¡¯t be polite with me, just spare my life."

    Death wasn''t as simple as closing one¡¯s eyes. Everyone¡¯s life was full of long-held wishes, memories, and loved ones. Her unconditional submission to survive showed her intelligence. Some, clearly powerless to negotiate, insisted on it, only to meet a more tragic end.

    "Fine." Yun Xiao didn''t want to waste time, as the mine was still out of reach. Seeing Lu Qian kneeling, he sat on a green stone and gestured for her toe over.

    He had sat down, and Lu Qian, not daring to rise, crawled over to him. Then, with a bite of her red lip and a weak nce at Yun Xiao, she skillfully reached out to undo his armor.

    "What are you doing?" Yun Xiao held her hand, his voice cold.

    "You said you had a way to make you trust me. I thought that meant offering you my body¡­" Lu Qian lowered her head and asked.

    "You wish." Yun Xiaoughed. What he wanted was true trust! The Prison Warden Sigil on his forehead lit up, then cracked open and birthed a violet eye! With three eyes, he coldly stared at Lu Qian, saying, "I''m going to cleanse your mind. Rx your spirit. If you dare resist even slightly, I''ll pop your eyes with one stroke of my sword."

    "Yes! Quickly, do it!" Lu Qian trembled in fright, tears welling up in her eyes.

    She didn''t dare resist; instead, sheplied with Yun Xiao, fearful that any dissatisfaction during the spell could lead to her demise.

    In the darkness, the controlling soul power of the Soulfire Eye instantly invaded her brain, her will, and even permeated her spirit.

    "The Prison Warden Sigil is so subtle and potent that no one else could detect its presence."

    Although Lu Qian''s spiritual essence was strong, controlling her was not difficult as long as she did not resist. Afterward, a sh of violet light crossed her beautiful eyes, quickly fading away.

    "Master." She felt a headacheing on and shook her head, Yun Xiao¡¯s divine features gradually bing clear in her eyes. After seeing him clearly, she immediately fell to her knees.

    "Let¡¯s go," Yun Xiao stood and said.

    "Yes." Lu Qian had knelt for too long and staggered as she stood up. She steadied herself and, with an infatuated gaze, quickly followed him.

    The soul capturing of the Soulfire Eye was straightforward; it only needed to gain the spiritual dominance over someone, making her utterly devoted to him. Then, all her actions would be aimed at protecting him.

    Apart from this, Lu Qian was no different than usual.

    In the Celestial Court, Yun Xiao could not freely reveal his murderous intent, so he needed the Soulfire Eye to cover his tracks.

    There was another person to <em>clean up</em> after.

    When Yun Xiao and Lu Qian emerged from the darkness into the valley, Sun Xiaoqi, who had been pacing in ce, dared not move and burst into tears.

    Seeing Lu Qian, she copsed, saying, "It¡¯s true, I''m the thirteenth body."

    "Don¡¯t panic, I¡¯ve changed my mind. Tonight, only 12 will hang," Yun Xiao said.

    It couldn¡¯t be helped, Yun Xiao thought the True Immortal Jade Mine was already in his possession, but it turned out it was still unmined.

    Since Lu Qian was sensible enough, he spared her.

    "You¡¯re not killing me?" Sun Xiaoqi''s face was pale, pointing at the corpses of the Arbiters around her, "B-but aren¡¯t you afraid I''ll leak your secret if you don¡¯t silence me?"

    Yun Xiao looked at her, a slight smile ying on his lips, "No need to fear."

    "Why not?" Sun Xiaoqi asked, bewildered.

    "Because you are a good person, and we are friends," Yun Xiao paused. "I don''t kill good people, nor do I betray friends."

    "Friends..." Sun Xiaoqi pouted, a touch of sadness in her voice, "I''m toozy, I don''t understand the ways of the world, I can''t speak with convincing words. Can someone like me really have friends?"

    "People like you are the best friends." Yun Xiao sighed. "In a world that is restless, materialistic, and cruelly hierarchical, genuine people like you are rare."

    "Really? Am I that good?" Sun Xiaoqi could hardly believe her ears.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao affirmed earnestly, "The Celestial Court needs people who are true and pure like you. If not killing you is a risk for me, then for the sake of our true friendship, I''m willing to take that risk."

    "Lu Yao..." Sun Xiaoqi burst into tears then and there. Her tears flowed freely as she reached up to wipe them away, her lips quivering. "No one has ever said such things to me, I''m so touched."

    "So, what will you do now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I''ve decided!" Sun Xiaoqi bit her lip. "To repay your trust, I want to devote myself to you!"

    "Pfft!" Yun Xiao''s vision darkened. "Is that your repayment? That¡¯s more like revenge."

    "Hmph." Sun Xiaoqi pouted.

    "Enough jokes." Yun Xiao became serious. "I need you to help me clear my name."

    Hearing this, Sun Xiaoqi nced at the bodies of Arbiters scattered around, a shiver running through her. She took a deep breath, clenched her fists, and said to Yun Xiao, "Alright."

    "Are you sure? If you ever lie for me, and I get exposed, you will be implicated too," Yun Xiao said sternly.

    "I''m sure!" Sun Xiaoqi looked earnestly at Yun Xiao. "I know you could just kill me easily and avoid all risks, but you respect me, and you take risks for the sake of friendship... Although I, Sun Xiaoqi, am useless, I''m also willing to go through fire and water for my friends."

    "Good." Yun Xiao smiled in relief.

    In the path of Immortals, it was easy for people to lose their original heart and turn cold and calcting.

    Along this vast journey, meeting people who brought joy like Cai Maomao, Mu Xiaolong, and others¡ªwhose humanity blossomed like flowers on the path of immortality¡ªconvinced Yun Xiao that the world wasn''t just full of darkness.

    When met with people like this, Yun Xiao wouldn''t care about losses or gains. If he was truly betrayed, he was prepared to ept it. He didn''t want to be a utilitarian killing machine; he still wanted to hold onto the most beautiful hopes in his heart.

    So much so that he even refrained from using the Soulfire Eye to control Sun Xiaoqi, for that too would desecrate the word <em>friend</em>.

    And so, Yun Xiao dealt with Sun Xiaoqi and Lu Qian in a different way.

    "Lu Yao..." Sun Xiaoqi scratched her head, asking, "Is she a friend too?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "No, she''s a puppet."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 537: Cultivating at Day, Killing at Night!

    Chapter 537: Cultivating at Day, Killing at Night!

    "Soul control..." Sun Xiaoqi''s eyes trembled. "If you use this method on me too, there¡¯s no need for risk... Oh, you are truly too kind."

    "You think too much. Soul controlling is just too exhausting; I¡¯m merely spent for now. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll control you," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Go away!" Sun Xiaoqi rolled her eyes, not buying it one bit.

    "Enough chit-chat, let¡¯s sync up on tomorrow¡¯s alibi, then you head to the city gates and keep watch, create an alibi for me." As he spoke, Yun Xiao unfastened his armor and handed it to Sun Xiaoqi. "Put this on a dummy, then drink andugh with it, make some noise so people see."

    "And you? Can you make it back in time?" Sun Xiaoqi asked.

    "No, no, I''ll use the cover of darkness to go mining," Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Mining? What are you mining?" Sun Xiaoqi asked curiously.

    "Don''t ask. Wealth should not be unted," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Whatever," Sun Xiaoqi scoffed, ncing at him disdainfully. "Just so long as you treat me to a feast.""Go on, get moving," Yun Xiao urged.

    "Bleh." Sun Xiaoqi stuck her tongue out at him before taking his armor and slipping quietly back towards the city gates.

    The duration of the ughter was, in fact, not long.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "From a rational standpoint, letting her go was a foolish act," Blue Star remarked dryly.

    "Life isn''t always about rationality; humans are creatures of emotion, and I am human. My heart is warm," Yun Xiao said.

    Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    Yun Xiao ignored him and began collecting the treasures from Lu Changfeng and the others, like the True Immortal Jades and Bags of Holding. What was left behind, like the Pr cier, he could not take.

    "Let¡¯s reap the spoils first." After settling affairs, Yun Xiao nced back at Lu Qian, who bowed and said, "Master, please."

    Together, they quickly disappeared into the darkness.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Not long after, they arrived at another deste ce, a forest where giant trees sprawled wildly and the air held a chill of foreboding.

    Lu Qian led the way, venturing deep into the abyss. After a lengthy detour, they discovered a fiery cave amidst a river of subterraneanva.

    Deep within this cave, the energy of the Celestial Sourcecore was potent, visible as high-quality crystals were embedded in the walls.

    "Master, this is the True Immortal Jade Mine. The extent of its reserves is currently unclear, but from what we''ve explored, if mined carefully, it should yield over 1,000 True Immortal Jades," Lu Qian reported.

    "An amount like 1,000 counts as a mine?" Yun Xiao had scavenged 2,000 True Immortal Jades from Lu Changfeng and the others. That amounted to a 20-year stipend for him.

    "There''s more unexplored," Lu Qian paused. "We have time tonight; I could dig deeper."

    "No need!" Red Moon emerged from Yun Xiao''s embrace, eyeing the wall crystals. "No need to explore further, nor to mine. I prefer the original vor, to consume them directly!"

    "Are you sure?" Yun Xiao asked, surprised. Could it be this simple?

    Blue Star rolled his eyes. "Do you think Reddy distinguishes between a roasted chicken leg and a live, feathered hen?"

    "Fair point." Yun Xiao grinned. "Then feast to your heart¡¯s content, and let''s aim to hang the corpses before dawn."

    "Lift-off!" Having reached the Great Dao Celestial Realm, Red Moon waited for this moment, his mouth crooked in a grin.

    <em>ROAR! </em>From Yun Xiao''s arms, Red Moon leapt to the ground, transforming into a fierce beast d in ck scales! Scales, spines, a gaping maw, and sharp ws... the coffin beast''s visual impact was overwhelming.

    "Wow¡­!" Lu Qian backed away several steps, her face pale as she stared at Yun Xiao.

    "You return to the mayor''s office and keep everything normal. Let everyone know that you were at the office all night and went nowhere else," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Yes." Lu Qian hurried away.

    "Day for training, night for killing."

    Yun Xiao gazed at the zing mine, his eyes burning with excitement and a smile. "The Celestial Court is truly fascinating."

    The first bucket of gold was secured, the divine barrier surpassed!

    Now, the real ascent was about to begin!

    "But tomorrow, we face a hurdle."

    Fifteen Arbiters had perished, along with noble Immortal scions like Lu Changfeng and Jiang Lanyue. Such a major case was a challenge to the very authority of the Celestial Court, resonating through all of Sky Soaring City. A storm was brewing!

    Yun Xiao sat in calm meditation, his gaze icy, immovable as a mountain, awaiting the tempest.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Dawn broke, the dark canopy of night swept across the sky.

    At the break of day, Sun Xiaoqi and Yun Xiao looked towards the city gates.

    Twelve Arbiters, each with eyes pierced through, hung high upon the gates, swaying in the wind.

    Sun Xiaoqi let out a cry of horror, as shrill as a rooster at sunrise, igniting the entire city of Sangju!

    The citizens of Sangju City, confined all night, flooded the streets!

    When they beheld the row of 12 Arbiter corpses, Sangju City exploded!

    A session of gasps rose and fell, sweeping across the city.

    People ran about, almost madly, not out of sorrow but out of fear and dread!

    Everyone was shaken by this earth-shattering case, their hearts trembling, their words faltering even as they spread the news.

    In the Celestial Court, the death of 12 Heavenly Officers caused more uproar than the death of 10,000 mortal cultivators.

    Even the weakest of these officers represented the Celestial Court!

    Many were stronger than regr Arbiters, yet their statuses were much lower. For once ordained with a <em>rank</em> in the Celestial Court, a cultivator ascended beyond the ordinary, embodying the will of the heavens!

    "Twelve Arbiters¡­!"

    "Including yesterday, that''s 15!"

    "My goodness, what kind of fiend did this¡­?"

    All the citizens of Sangju City were dumbstruck.

    Themotion drew everyone''s attention, and this time no one took charge, not even Lu Qian dared to bring down those Arbiters.

    She immediately ordered the public not to approach and then, along with Yun Xiao and Sun Xiaoqi, sent a flying talisman to notify the Thunder Department and Skyruler Immortal Manor!

    Even after the talisman was sent, Sangju City remained in turmoil, seething with unrest.

    Everyone was plunged into panic, fearing the arrival of the next night.

    "What if a few hundred more Arbiterse? They can''t all be killed, can they?"

    "Too horrifying!"

    The storm surged, escting several magnitudes.

    "This flying talisman will surely shake Sky Soaring City to its core!"

    Just as the people of Sangju City had anticipated, indeed, within an hour, over 300 Skyruler Sword Vessels swiftly descended upon Sangju City!

    "The real celestial dignitaries are here!"

    The crowd watched with intense eyes, their hearts trembling mightily.

    The doors of the sword vessels opened one by one, and from the central position, arge sword vessel capable of amodating ten people, several high-ranking figures emerged all at once!

    "There are two Rank 7 Sky Protectors!"

    "I recognize them! One is Liu Chaochao, and the other is... Lu Cheng from the Lu Immortal Manor!"

    "My heavens! The real big shot is in the middle, that''s Lord Lu!"

    "A Rank 6 Heavenly Officer hase to Sangju City?"

    It was notable since their own mayor was only Rank 9.

    Now, hundreds of Heavenly Officers above Rank 9 had arrived all at once, a testament to the magnitude of the event.

    "I remember, isn¡¯t Lu Cheng the little sister of Lord Lu?"

    "Yes!"

    "These are people from the Lu Immortal Manor, holding the highest positions in the Skyruler Immortal Manor."

    The people watched these dignitaries with fervent eyes, scarcely daring to breathe.

    Beside figures like Lord Lu, Liu Chaochao, and Lu Cheng, even high-ranking Arbiters like Liu Mumu drew no attention.

    In fact, this time even six Arbitermanders had arrived!

    When the hundreds disembarked from their sword vessels, they flowed like a mighty torrent, pressing towards the city gates where the citizens of Sangju City hurried to greet them with respectful bows.

    However, the Arbiters from Skyruler Immortal Manor paid them no heed!

    From the moment they appeared, the gaze of these hundreds was fixed upon the 12 Arbiters strung up high.

    It was a massacre and a grave provocation to the Skyruler Immortal Manor!

    Over 300 Arbiters, their eyes aze with fury, were seething with rage.

    Only Yun Xiao was smiling inwardly.

    "Lu Yao, I have avenged you. This spectacle today, I dedicate to you," Yun Xiao thought with satisfaction.

    This was his way of enjoying retribution! But he knew that Lu Yao''s revenge was not yetplete.

    Yuan Gang had been stripped of his rank and reduced to amoner, but he was not dead, and might rise again.

    And Lu Changfeng''s most significant backer, Lord Lu, was still present!

    He knew well that Yun Xiao was not Lu Yao!

    At that moment, Lord Lu''s eyes swirled with fierce fire, fixated on Lu Changfeng at the center!

    Lu Changfeng, his eyes streaming with ck blood, hands hanging limp, had a face full of terror and had died a gruesome death.

    "Changfeng!" Lord Lu roared, his fists clenched tight, as a vast storm of celestial power swirled around him, pushing back the surrounding Arbiters several steps.

    To lose a daughter, then a son! Even the most capable at his age would be heart-wrenchingly tormented by such events.

    "Lord Lu, please restrain your grief," Liu Chaochao said, his scalp tingling at the sight.

    But more than that, he was furious!

    "Such audacity! Since the founding of the Thunder Department and Skyruler Immortal Manor, there has never been such a provocation!" Lu Cheng eximed sharply. She was a woman dressed in Arbiter Armor, her eyes narrow and her demeanor cold, exuding a forbidding air.

    "First, bring down the bodies, ce them in coffins!" Lord Lu suppressed the raging fury within him. After saying this, he abruptly turned back to face the crowd, his voice thundering, "Bring me Lu Yao and Sun Xiaoqi for immediate interrogation!"

 Chapter 538: Schemes, Schemes, And More Schemes!

    Chapter 538: Schemes, Schemes, And More Schemes!

    <em>BANG! </em>Someone mmed the table, startling Sun Xiaoqi terribly. She huddled her neck and looked up to find herself in a gloomy, cold chamber filled with imposing figures.

    In the center sat Lord Lu, nked on one side by Liu Chaochao. Around them were several Rank 8 Arbiter Commanders, their cold, stern eyes fixed on Sun Xiaoqi.

    "Big Bro..." Sun Xiaoqi called weakly to an Arbiter at the corner who was tasked with taking notes.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    This man, lean and with eyes bright as sparks, had strands of hair that seemed to flicker with mes. His name was Sun Ran, Sun Xiaoqi''s cousin.

    "Don''t be nervous. Just answer whatever Lord Lu asks you truthfully. No one can threaten you here in the Skyruler Immortal Manor," Sun Ran advised gravely.

    "Silence." Liu Chaochao cast a nce at Sun Ran.

    Sun Ran bowed his head, ceasing to speak.

    Liu Chaochao had just entered from outside and now addressed Lord Lu, "My men have already sealed off Sangju City. Shall you conduct the interrogation, or shall I?"

    Lord Lu, sitting erect, his eyes a dark red and his body like a furnace, replied calmly, "You are the Sky Protector, it should naturally be you.""Hmm." Liu Chaochao nodded and turned to Sun Xiaoqi. "You''ve always been a good child in my memory, a bitzy, yes, but never one to harm the natural order or defend the wicked."

    Relieved that it was Liu Chaochao questioning her and not Lord Lu, Sun Xiaoqi''s eyes filled with tears as she nodded vigorously.

    "That''s good." Liu Chaochao smiled slightly. "Actually, this matter has nothing to do with you. On the other side, Lu Yao has already confessed. He and his backers plotted against Lu Changfeng and Jiang Lanyue, intending to rob them and set a trap in Sangju City,mitting such heinous crimes!"

    "He confessed? Is that true? How terrible..." Sun Xiaoqi gasped.

    "Yes, he confessed. Next, we''ll use him to flush out those behind him, break this case, and give the victims some closure," Liu Chaochao stated solemnly.

    "Then, then, what can I do?" Sun Xiaoqi asked.

    Liu Chaochao nced at Sun Ran, smiled, and said, "You just need to tell us thatst night, Lu Yao left the city gates alone and wasn''t with you the whole time."

    Sun Xiaoqi paused, then said, "B-butst night, he was right beside me."

    "That''s impossible. Lu Yao himself said he left for a while to signal the murderers. Are you sure you''re not mistaken?" Liu Chaochao pressed.

    "I''m not mistaken." Sun Xiaoqi shook her head firmly. "Last night after Lu Changfeng scolded us, he made us keep a close watch on the city gates. We didn''t dare to leave..."

    After a moment, she added quietly, "Could there be some mistake? Could someone be impersonating Lu Yao? He seems like a decent person to me..."

    "Shut up!" Sun Ran shot her a re as he continued his scribbling.

    "Can you keep quiet? If not, get out," Liu Chaochao told Sun Ran.

    "Sorry." Sun Ran scratched his head and looked at Sun Xiaoqi. "This kid has always been a bit of an airhead, not much wit about her, I think..."

    "Leave." Liu Chaochao''s voice was cold and sharp.

    "Yes." Sun Ran obediently left the room.

    Once he was gone, Liu Chaochao resumed the interrogation, though his tone had turned much colder.

    "Sun Xiaoqi, recount the full details of your mission, from the moment you were briefed and personnel were assigned. Leave nothing out."

    After speaking, Liu Chaochao stood and approached Sun Xiaoqi. "Twelve Arbiters died, but you and Lu Yao survived. This casts major suspicions on both of you. If you can''t clear your name, it will not only hinder your future but also bring shame to your family. So, don¡¯t let any deceiver ruin your path."

    "Yes, yes, yes¡­" Sun Xiaoqi, terrified out of her wits, quickly recounted everything she saw and experienced along the way, albeit with slight adjustments to the details. Her genuine fear made her ount appear more truthful.

    After her narrative, Liu Chaochao added, "Three guarded the gate, two patrolled the east and west sides of the city¡ªwas this arranged by Lu Yao?"

    "Yes." Sun Xiaoqi nodded.

    "What does that tell us?" Suddenly, a voice from the corner spoke.

    It was Liu Mumu, who had been listening silently. Her question silenced everyone. Indeed, their interrogation had gleaned nothing substantive.

    "Let her go," Liu Mumu finally spoke. "She truly knows nothing. She survived simply because she was too insignificant for the murderer to bother with."

    "Huff!" Lord Lu rose, his expression dark and silent, and he walked out.

    "This¡­" Sun Xiaoqi, utterly confused, asked Liu Mumu, "Sister Mumu, isn¡¯t the case solved? What I say doesn¡¯t matter, right? Why does everyone seem unhappy?"

    "Go ahead and leave," Liu Mumu said.

    "Oh, okay." Sun Xiaoqi stumbled out of the chamber.

    "I think we¡¯re looking in the wrong direction," Liu Mumu spoke again. "Focusing on the two Arbiters who survived such a major case isughably misguided. It only serves to let the real murderer roam free."

    "Mumu makes sense." Sun Ran peeked in from outside, giving a sheepish grin. "Xiaoqi is just a naive kid. If I were the killer, I wouldn''t bother killing her either. Why fuss over her?"

    Liu Mumu nodded, then turned to Liu Chaochao. "Besides, brother, Lu Yao is one of Lord Lu''s men. Why would Lord Lu suspect him?"

    "Both of you shut up." Liu Chaochao red at them before turning to leave.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Elsewhere, Lord Lu stepped out from the long corridor,ing face to face with Lu Cheng.

    "Brother," Lu Cheng called out.

    The two stood in the corridor, the others around them stepping back to give space.

    "How did the interrogation go with Sun Xiaoqi?" Lu Cheng inquired.

    Lord Lu shared a few words, then asked, "And Lu Qian?"

    "She shared a simr story to Sun Xiaoqi. The first night, three Arbiters died. To resolve the matter swiftly, Lu Changfeng didn''t report to Skyruler Immortal Manor but brought in Jiang Lanyue instead. ording to Lu Qian, on the second night, 12 of them went on a secret patrol and then vanished," Lu Cheng exined.

    "Lu Qian is the city mayor. She wasn''t involved in capturing the murdererst night?" Lord Lu frowned.

    "Lu Qian says that Jiang Lanyue was too flirtatious, and Lu Changfeng didn''t like him teasing Lu Qian, so he didn''t let her follow... You should know about Lu Changfeng and Lu Qian''s private matters, right?" Lu Cheng said.

    Lord Lu didn''t respond, his silence affirming his awareness. But Jiang Lanyue might not know.

    "Moreover, I''ve asked several people at the city hall; they indeed saw Lu Qian therest night," Lu Cheng added.

    "What time was she at the city hall?" Lord Lu asked.

    "I didn''t ask that specifically." Lu Cheng shook his head.

    "Has the autopsy been done? What exactly was the time of death?" Lord Lu pressed.

    "At midnight," Lu Cheng replied.

    "Murders at midnight, bodies hung at the city gates close to dawn. Previously, the bodies were hung earlier in the night. This suggests thatst night there was a gap, the murderer was covering their tracks, creating alibis!" Lord Lu said coldly.

    "You mean to say, Sun Xiaoqi and Lu Qian are both covering for Lu Yao?" Lu Cheng was stunned.

    After a long pause, Lu Cheng shook her head. "That''s impossible. Xiaoqi is Old Sun''s daughter, and Old Sun is the steward of Governor Jiang. She''s upright and unrted to Lu Yao; there''s no reason for her to absolve a murderer. And as for Lu Qian, I''ve watched her grow up. She worked under me before, utterly devoted to Lu Changfeng, her affection is undeniable. Why would she harm him?"

    "Could they have been threatened?" Lord Lu frowned. He was also struggling to believe it, which was why he was so agitated.

    "It''s unlikely. If Lu Yao had such a powerful background to intimidate them, it would mean his influence surpasses the entirety of Sky Soaring City. If he''s that powerful, why bother? Besides, isn''t this young man just Lu Bufan''s youngest son? Although he''s been missing for ten years and might have made some shady connections to plot for wealth, it''s hard to believe he could frighten Xiaoqi and Lu Qian into speaking for him." Lu Cheng was certain.

    "Lu Cheng." Lord Lu looked at his little sister. "The real Lu Yao died ten years ago in the ck Demon Cavern, and Lu Changfeng ascended to first ce in the examination by stealing his Arbiter Tokens. The Lu Yao we know now is an impostor!"

    Lu Cheng''s eyes widened in confusion. "You never told me about this?"

    "It''s a trivial matter, what''s there to say?" Lord Lu replied coldly.

    "Thatplicates things a lot more¡­" Lu Cheng muttered, frowning deeply.

    "Have you checked Lu Qian and Sun Xiaoqi for any bewitching? Any mind controlling Gu?" Lord Lu asked.

    "I''ve checked; nothing turned up." Lu Cheng paused for a moment. "I made sure to check thoroughly, and Sun Xiaoqi ispletely clean."

    "Any traces of soul control?" Lord Lu pressed further.

    "None." Lu Cheng shook her head.

    The eyes of the two siblings met.

    "Things aren''t adding up." Lu Cheng''s expression turned grim.

    Where could the problem lie?

    "He''s just an imposter. Since we''re certain he''s involved butck evidence, why not apply some pressure to flush out his backers?" Lu Cheng suggested coldly.

    "Force out whom? Liu Zongyu?" Lord Lu scoffed.

    "Liu Zongyu?" Lu Cheng drew in a breath of cold air. "So it''s him, that vile man, setting up this trap in Sangju City to target your children? Is he using what you did to Lu Yao ten years ago to force your hand, to make you swallow a bitter loss? Does he crave the governor seat that desperately?"

    Lord Lu''s face darkened. "I thought after the incident with Xiaolu, he would stop, but now he schemes against me again. How can I tolerate this?" As he spoke, he looked towards the dark chamber and said ominously, "Liu Zongyu, you have children too..."

    "Brother, we must retaliate fiercely," Lu Cheng said through gritted teeth.

    "Your sister-inw has gone to fetch our treasure; she''ll be back soon." Lord Lu clenched his fists, his eyes as cold as frost. "But aside from the reactions of Sun Xiaoqi and Lu Qian, there''s something else I haven''t figured out yet."

    "Jiang Lanyue?" Lu Cheng guessed.

    "Exactly. A descendant of the Jiang Family. Does Liu Zongyu have a death wish? Governor Jiang is up for promotion, not retirement. He''s impatient, even daring to provoke the governor? If he angers him, Liu Zongyu will gain nothing," Lord Lu said deeply.

    This was the point that plunged him into deep conflict. It just didn''t make sense!

    "Brother, is it possible that what Sun Xiaoqi and Lu Qian said is true, that Lu Yao really is just a drifter, unrted to everything including the incident with Xiaolu? That Lu Changfeng and Jiang Lanyue fell to some fugitive, or an enemy from your past?" Lu Cheng came to this realization and nodded. "Thinking this way, doesn''t it all make sense? Liu Zongyu wouldn''t scheme to destroy himself, would he?"

    After listening, Lord Lu remained silent for a long time. "Let''s go," he suddenly said.

    "To interrogate Lu Yao?" Lu Cheng asked.

    "Right, and keep an eye on Liu Mumu," Lord Lu instructed.

    "Understood."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 539: First Place in the Immortal Tournament!

    Chapter 539: First ce in the Immortal Tournament!

    Lord Lu and Lu Cheng turned and made their way back to the dark chamber where Liu Chaochao and the other Arbiters hurried forward to greet them.

    "Bring out Lu Yao!"

    Seated squarely in the center was Lord Lu, his voice booming like thunder. Lu Cheng sat to his right, and Liu Chaochao took his ce on the left.

    Around them stood a host of Arbiter Commanders, including Liu Mumu and Sun Ran, casting a grim and oppressive atmosphere throughout the dimly lit room. Any ordinary person brought into this setting would dare not even breathe too loudly.

    Soon after, Yun Xiao, stripped of his Arbiter armor, was brought in. He was dressed in white robes, his hair slightly disheveled, and his shoes removed. His bare feet touched the cold floor, and his hands were shackled. His treatment was starkly different from that of Sun Xiaoqi.

    From the moment Yun Xiao entered, both Lord Lu and Lu Cheng watched him coldly, as the young man in white stood upright, his hair tousled but his demeanor resolute, his eyes fiery.

    "I am a Rank 9 Arbiter of the Celestial Court, and I am not guilty. What right do you have to chain me?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    "Lu Yao, you are under serious suspicion. Cooperate with the Skyruler Immortal Manor''s investigation!" Liu Mumumanded sternly.

    "Master, I have been cooperative," Yun Xiao responded."Lu Yao." Liu Chaochao shook his head and said, "Stop pretending. Sun Xiaoqi and Lu Qian, during their interrogation, made mistakes in their cooperation, contradicting themselves and were exposed by the Skyruler Immortal Manor. In hopes of a lighter sentence, they have already confessed to your crimes."

    "Is that so? Then may I ask the presiding officer, what crime have Imitted? I''m only in the Early True Immortal Realm. Did I single-handedly crush and ughter 12 Arbiters?" Yun Xiao challenged.

    "You conspired with others tomit murder and split the spoils, the evidence is conclusive. There''s no use in denying it. This trial is merely a formality. You will soon be taken back to Sky Soaring City for severe punishment," Liu Chaochao dered harshly.

    With that, the chamber fell into a stifling silence.

    "Of course," Liu Chaochao added, "if you''re willing to confess the real culprit, there might be a chance for a lighter..."

    "Master!" Yun Xiao''s eyes zed as he looked towards Liu Mumu. "Is it because you know you can''t crack this case, and since I''m conveniently caught in this vortex, powerless, that you sacrifice me to take the me?"

    "Silence!" Liu Chaochao barked. "The Skyruler Immortal Manor upholds the Celestial Court''s decree with strict justice. We never wrong the innocent, nor do we spare the guilty."

    "Then let the Skyruler Immortal Manor present my so-called evidence. I want to know how I''m being made a scapegoat," Yun Xiao demanded, his gaze piercing.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "..." Liu Chaochao was left speechless. He knew from the start that this review was pointless, merely a procedure to amodate Lord Lu.

    "So, from the start, there was never any evidence, just a ploy to trap me into talking, is that it? Well, here''s my statement. I, Lu Yao, stand tall and righteous, having never breached thew!" Yun Xiao dered, sweeping his gaze over to Lord Lu but addressing the others. "I am a Rank 9 Arbiter of the Celestial Court, shielded by its decrees. You have no proof, no right to detain me."

    His voice rang out fiercely, deepening the silence that already smothered the dark room.

    "Release him," Liu Mumumanded.

    "Commander Liu, this¡ª"

    "Release him!" Liu Mumu interrupted with a dismissive twist of her lips. "The Skyruler Immortal Manor has its processes. We''d do better to search the murder site, to look for clues... While the victim''s family deserves our sympathy, we need not disrupt proper proceedings."

    Her words were nearly a p to Lord Lu''s face.

    "Shut your mouth!" Liu Chaochao bellowed back.

    Liu Mumu paid her older brother no mind, personally stepping forward to free Yun Xiao, then turning to address the presiding officials. "My apprentice might be dull and unsophisticated, but he is no viin."

    "Get out," Liu Chaochao waved dismissively.

    "Let''s go." Liu Mumu grasped Yun Xiao''s hand, leading him out of the interrogation room.

    Stepping out felt like emerging from the deep sea, allowing Yun Xiao to finally breathe free from the oppressive atmosphere.

    Liu Mumu''s expression was icy as she led him far from the room, her grip tight on his hand. Outside, she turned, her beautiful eyes cold and using, "You killed them!"

    Yun Xiao responded calmly, "You give me too much credit."

    "Stop pretending, you''re an unprecedented prodigy with 11 Sword Rings. No one believes you could do it, but I do." Liu Mumu''s eyes zed.

    Yun Xiao met her gaze, and after a moment, he nodded. "Shouldn''t you be pleased? I avenged Lu Yao, something you couldn''t achieve in ten years. I did it in three days, and now he can rest."

    "..." Liu Mumu was taken aback, her eyes reddening, unable to speak for a long while. Finally, she bit her lip and said, "What about the other Arbiters? Fourteen innocents."

    "There are billions more innocent people in this world. Do you care about their lives?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "You..." Liu Mumu stared at him for a long time before turning away, waving dismissively. "Just go! I wanted you to make Miss Yu happy, but your actions grow more reckless. If you end up harming her, I can''t face Lu An."

    "I can''t leave." Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Don''t take the people of the Lu Immortal Manor for fools. You also killed the descendant of Governor Jiang! They think you were sent by my father to stir trouble, which is why you''re still alive. Otherwise, you''d be long gone! Don''t think your Arbiter status is a free pass from death. In these times, too many Arbiters have died, who cares about a lowly Rank 9 Immortal?" Liu Mumu said sternly.

    "I am innocent," Yun Xiao stated gravely. "If I were to flee, that would only confirm guilt, further implicating her."

    Hearing this, Liu Mumu''s brows furrowed deeply. She clutched Yun Xiao''s robe, her voice cold as she used, "So you''re just a troublemaker, utterly unaware of the weight of your actions, bringing harm to everyone!"

    "Master." Yun Xiao took her hand, his tone earnest. "Since arriving in Sky Soaring City, I''ve had my own mission. Some actions may seem reckless, but they are necessary. You and I are not on the same path, and you needn''t reproach me. I am confident in each step I take."

    "And what of Miss Yu?" Liu Mumu asked.

    "If Lord Lu knows I''m an imposter, how could he naively use her to threaten me? Do you think I would have feelings for Lu Yao''s mother?" Yun Xiao challenged.

    "Do you?" Liu Mumu pressed.

    Yun Xiao paused, taking a deep breath before responding, "She has suffered greatly, and all the torment has already urred. She was powerless to fight back, and I wanted to fight back for her, even if it meant dying on this path. Whether it be I or her, we would both consider it worthwhile! If she knew today that I avenged her son, she would be thankful, even at the cost of her own life."

    "You are not her. How can you be so sure of what she would think? You''re too presumptuous!" Liu Mumu snapped, teeth clenched.

    "Think what you will. My vengeance isn''tplete, and I''ve no time to discuss these meaningless matters with you."

    With that, Yun Xiao headed towards the direction of the Skyruler Sword Vessel.

    "Where do you think you''re going?" Liu Mumu followed quickly, blocking his path.

    "Back to Sky Soaring City," Yun Xiao dered.

    "You''re still needed here to cooperate with the investigation," Liu Mumu said coldly.

    "Aren''t you my master? You said I could go, so I can leave. Any issues, you just take responsibility." Yun Xiao suddenly chuckled.

    "You''re far too presumptuous." Liu Mumu shook her head, speechless.

    The young man had the appearance of an Immortal, yet he was stubborn to the core.

    Liu Mumu still couldn''t understand why Sun Xiaoqi and Lu Qian would cleanse his name for him.

    "Master." Yun Xiao''s smile faded, his voice serious. "I''ve heard from Xiaoqi that the Celestial Court''s Arbiters are about to begin apetition called the Immortal Tournament. All Arbiters under 30 years old from all departments of the Celestial Court have a chance to participate. The victor not only has the chance for an exceptional promotion but, if they perform extraordinarily well, reaching the top ten or even first ce, they can be crowned Champion of the Heavenly Pce, ascending in status."

    "You have quite an appetite." Liu Mumu realized she really didn''t understand him anymore.

    Yun Xiao took her words as apliment and confirmed, "The tournament is a friendly exchange among the enforcers of the Celestial Court''s departments. Each department first selects a portion of talented Arbiters, then all head together to the Divine Heavenly Gate. And for us from the Thunder Department, the internal selection within the various departments of the Skyruler Immortal Manors starts tomorrow."

    "Right, and then?" Liu Mumu stared at him intently.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze was fierce. "If I shine in the Immortal Martial Contest, no one in Sky Soaring City can touch me."

 Chapter 540: Origin Orb!

    Chapter 540: Origin Orb!

    Two hours had passed when Yun Xiao rode his Skyruler Sword Vessel back to Sky Soaring City.

    The sun had already reached its zenith.

    "Traveling back and forth really eats into my cultivation time. But, the fruits of this journey have been immensely rewarding," Yun Xiao mused, his use of the word <em>immensely</em> betraying his satisfaction.

    In the case of Sangju City, the bodies of the 15 Arbiters were yet cold, and he, the true culprit, had returned unchallenged to the bastion of justice, the Skyruler Immortal Manor!

    As Yun Xiao had soared over Sky Soaring City, he could see that the entire popce was abuzz with the gruesome Sangju City murders.

    None doubted the survivor Lu Yao.

    Even within the precincts of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, Yun Xiao was met with no special treatment.

    To most Arbiters, he was merely a lucky soul who had managed to survive. Otherwise, the two Sky Protectors wouldn¡¯t have let him off so easily.

    Yun Xiao did not head straight for the Skyruler Immortal Manor, but instead returned to the Lu Immortal Manor, to his home.In the courtyard, a woman in in clothes sat on a stone bench, her hands clenched tightly, her face etched with unease.

    "Mother, I''m back," Yun Xiao said as he sat beside her.

    "Lil Yao..." Miss Yu hurriedly reached out towards him.

    Yun Xiao took her hands, saying, "You''ve heard about Sangju City, haven''t you? Don¡¯t worry, I was lucky¡ªthe viins didn¡¯t set their sights on me. See? I''vee back safe and sound."

    "You weren''t hurt, were you?" Miss Yu asked, her eyes brimming with tears again.

    "Not a scratch. I was just there to stand around and look busy," Yun Xiao joked.

    "That¡¯s good, that¡¯s very good." Miss Yu sighed in relief, her tension easing.

    ¡°Still, there is some bad news," Yun Xiao added somberly.

    "What bad news?" Miss Yu gasped.

    Yun Xiao looked around, then whispered in her ear, "The young master died valiantly trying to capture the viin."

    "Oh, it''s okay," Miss Yu nked for a moment before she instinctively replied.

    "It''s okay?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "No, no..." Miss Yu corrected herself slowly, "It¡¯s just heartbreaking. Lord Lu and the Madame, having lost their daughter and now their son, must be in profound grief!"

    "Indeed." Yun Xiao nodded. "Now, Lord Lu too belongs to a family of martyrs."

    "Hush, don''t speak foolishly; that''s not a term to be taken lightly," Miss Yu hurriedly interjected.

    Yun Xiao observed her troubled expression with a gentle smile. Unseen by Miss Yu, he did not have to hide it.

    "Mother, I must leave now," Yun Xiao said, rising to his feet.

    "So soon after you''vee back? No, have a meal first," Miss Yu insisted.

    "I can''t stay for a meal. I''m swamped with work. If I dy, the leadership won''t be happy, and I might lose my job," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Alright then!" Miss Yu gripped his hand tightly, saying deeply, "Just be safe, my son."

    Yun Xiao nodded. "I will¡­"

    With those words, he gently let go of her hand, turned, and walked out of the courtyard, quietly disappearing into the distance.

    As Yun Xiao walked, he muttered to himself, "Did you see? Lu Changfeng is dead, and she''s pleased."

    "An insignificant woman. Whether she''s happy or not, does it matter to you?" Blue Star scoffed.

    "It matters, it matters a lot," Yun Xiao affirmed.

    "If she''s so important, why not bring her to the Skyruler Immortal Manor for protection?" Blue Star questioned.

    "Taking her by force would only make things worse; it''s like admitting guilt. She''s safest right here," Yun Xiao exined as he left the Lu Immortal Manor and looked ahead. "The Skyruler Immortal Manor isn''t exactly a safe ce either."

    "Licking the de, how thrilling," Red Moon chuckled.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a blink, Yun Xiao returned to the Wind Pavilion. It was his third day as an Arbiter, and he had already gotten his superior, Yuan Gang, dismissed and his direct superior, Lu Changfeng, ughtered.

    Next, the Wind Pavilion would likely be renamed, and a new Arbiter would take charge.

    Yun Xiao wasn''t concerned with these developments; his mind was on his training room!

    At the entrance of the Wind Pavilion, a male and a female Arbiter were discussing.

    "Have you heard? The Seventh Princess has been reborn but hasn''t returned to the Celestial Court; she''s missing," the male Arbiter said.

    "The whole Great Dao Celestial Realm knows about it," the female Arbiter replied.

    "How odd. Is she being pursued?" The male Arbiter scratched his head.

    "Impossible, she''s a princess of the Celestial Court; who would dare pursue her?" The female Arbiter shook her head.

    "That''s true..."

    Just as they were discussing this, they saw Yun Xiao approaching.

    "Have you two heard of the Seventh Princess appearing in other ces outside Sky Soaring City?" Yun Xiao asked.

    The two Arbiters gave him a cold look and, without answering, turned and walked away.

    Not just them, but all the Arbiters in Skyruler Immortal Manor, having heard about the incident in Sangju City, began to distance themselves and ostracize him.

    In their eyes, someone like Yun Xiao, regardless of his actual involvement, had no future.

    The master had perished, but the servant had not; such was his fate.

    "Ha." Yun Xiao found little amusement in the realization and retreated to his training room, shutting the great door behind him.

    "Spit it out now," Yun Xiaomanded as he coaxed the small ck beast from his embrace.

    "This is my first time; I need a moment to prepare." Blue Star coughed.

    "Your mouth is all worn out, and it''s still your first time?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Get lost." Blue Star shot him a re, squatted down in a horse stance, his face twisted as if constipated.

    "BLEGH!" With a held breath, turmoil churned in his stomach, turning his face a shade of green, Blue Star expelled a glowing orb!

    Upon release, the orb tumbled through the air like a deted balloon, and Blue Star finally copsed to the ground with a whimper. "That nearly killed me!"

    Yun Xiao paid no heed to the antics, his gaze fixed solely on the luminous sphere.

    The surface of the orb shimmered, inside swirling like a spherical vortex.

    "Is this an Origin Orb?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Yes!"

    "Is this also what the Creator Immortal prepared for his rebirth? Can this thing directly nurture the spirit?" Yun Xiao continued.

    "Why don''t you try and find out?" The small ck beast staggered to its feet, looking utterly drained.

    "Fantastic!"

    Yun Xiao''s cultivation relied on the Heavenly Dao Sariras, and the nurturing of the spirit depended on the Origin Orbs!

    All Yun Xiao needed to grasp on his own was the Worldly Dao Heart, which grew with a person''s insight and experiences.

    "So much for just one Origin Orb?" Yun Xiaomented with a hint of heartache.

    "But this one will save you from worrying about the growth of your spirit for a while, allowing you to focus solely on the cultivation of your Worldly Dao Heart and breaking through your current realm," Blue Star exined.

    "Remarkable," Yun Xiao couldn''t hide his admiration. He could hardly wait to begin. Seating himself cross-legged, he held the Origin Orb in the palm of his hand. He closed his eyes, letting his spirit venture forth!

    With a hum, his mundane spirit appeared before him, eyeing the Origin Orb that was nearly its own size.

    "From the perspective of a spirit, this Origin Orb is a fatal temptation," Yun Xiao mused.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "It''s like when he meets his Senior Sister Zhao," Red Moon added sentimentally.

    "Get lost." Yun Xiao''s spirit red at Red Moon, then opened his arms and embraced the Origin Orb, nibbling at it bit by bit.

    With just one bite, a fragrant aroma rushed straight to the crown of his spirit.

    It was indeed like burying his head in Zhao Xuanran¡¯s bosom¡ªonce he started, he couldn''t stop.

    His spirit feasted delightedly, swallowing the entire Origin Orb, an act that made Red Moon¡¯s eyes bulge with envy.

    Not that it cared for the Origin Orb itself¡ªhe had made it¡ªbut he envied Yun Xiao''s spirit for the satisfaction it felt.

    "Hey, when will you give me some milk to drink?" Red Moon gritted his teeth.

    "Soon, very soon," Yun Xiao replied, his spirit satiated beyond measure.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 541: Pageantry for the Scions of the Rich!

    Chapter 541: Pageantry for the Scions of the Rich!

    Yun Xiao''s spirit swayed and stumbled, his inebriation painfully apparent. It wasn''t intentional; his spirit was swelling like it had ingested a potent tonic, experiencing explosive growth.

    Yun Xiao hastily retracted it back into his Dantian, and asked Blue Star for more Heavenly Dao Sariras, swallowing them together.

    "The Third Dao Tribtion is 80% about the growth of the spirit, and only 20% about the growth of the Dao Heart. With enough Origin Orbs and Heavenly Dao Sariras, my growth could even surpass the Second Dao Tribtion."

    The Second Dao Tribtion relied solely on the Dao Heart, and posed some real challenges.

    To say that the Third Dao Tribtion could be quicker than the second was honestly unbelievable.

    Yet, Yun Xiao made it a reality. After consuming the super tonic for his spirit, his breakthroughs faced no bounds. Under the influence of the Tri Heaven Sariras, he quickly advanced through two stages.

    "Late True Immortal Realm!" With Yun Xiao''s current ability to fight beyond his level, this breakthrough could propel hisbat prowess into thetter stages of the Essence Manifestation Realm!

    "This power is nearing that of some Arbiter Commanders."

    Of course, not the level of seasoned Rank 8 Arbiter Commanders like Liu Mumu.In the Celestial Court, position and power were closely linked, though not always precisely matched.

    For instance, some reclusive experts might possess thebat prowess of Rank 1 or Rank 2 Heavenly Immortals of the Celestial Court, yet hold no official title.

    Yun Xiao stood up, taking a deep breath. "The growth of my spirit is now sufficient to reach the Essence Manifestation Realm; I just need a few more Tri Heaven Sariras to break through to it in one go."

    Regrettably, the True Immortal Jade Mine was depleted. It wasn''t that Yun Xiao was low on resources, but that the cost of the Origin Orb and Tri Heaven Sariras had been too great. That was especially true for the former which had allowed Yun Xiao''s spirit to break through to a whole new realm.

    "Just got a huge load of money and blew it all in one go, nothing left... What a thrilling feeling!" Yun Xiao sighed.

    This was the excitement of the path of immortality!

    Though still poor, Yun Xiao''s strength was rapidly growing.

    "There are still over 1,000 True Immortal Jades left from the haul you got from Lu Changfeng and the others¡ªbring them here!" Blue Star said, curling his lip.

    "This is my stake for officially entering the Essence Manifestation Realm, try not to skim too much off the top," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Sure thing, sure thing," Blue Star chuckled, his smile revealing more than it concealed.

    Who could say how much they had skimmed off already! Don''t ask, because it was sure to be a huge amount!

    Yun Xiao waited as the small ck beast slowly processed and produced more Tri Heaven Sariras, all the while he consolidated his Late True Immortal Realm cultivation.

    By the time Yun Xiao felt stable, evening had descended.

    Another hour and the cloak of night would fall again.

    "Even if I''ve broken through, my Sword Aura and Runes are still capped, and I''m too broke for new Sword Rings... I need to learn some celestial techniques to diversify my arsenal," Yun Xiao thought as he stood up.

    So far, all his skills were derivations of the mundane world''s doctrines and techniques, having reached their zenith. Yet, he hadn''t even glimpsed the celestial techniques of Immortal cultivation.

    Except for that brief moment he emted Lu Changfeng''s Typhoon Piercer, which seemed rich in content and sparked his creativity. But where to acquire such celestial techniques?

    Yun Xiao pushed open the door of his cultivation room, stepping into a corridor swallowed by the twilight''s glow.

    Standing in the glow was a tall woman d in Arbiter armor, her form edged in gold, blending seamlessly with the dusk.

    "Master, you''ve returned?" Yun Xiao approached.

    "I''ve just requested a transfer from the Judicial Immortal. The Arbiter forces, including Lu Changfeng''s pavilion, will be under my temporary supervision," Liu Mumu turned, her tone serious. "From now on, you''ll only answer to me."

    "Are you that worried I''ll continue to cause trouble?" Yun Xiao half-joked.

    "..." Liu Mumu shot him a look but said nothing.

    "What about Sangju City?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "They''re still investigating, chasing the murderer," Liu Mumu replied.

    "I''m just worried that by tonight, they might all end up hung at the city gates," Yun Xiao said.

    "Are you telling ghost stories now? My brother is still there," Liu Mumu said dryly.

    "Just a joke, Master," Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Not funny." Liu Mumu pursed her lips. "I''m here to tell you, from now on, report everything you do to me."

    "Alright," Yun Xiao nodded, then quickly added, "Master, I want to head to the Celestial Technique Hall now."

    "What are you going there for?" Liu Mumu inquired.

    "I just checked, and my trip to Sangju City earned me no merits, not enough to exchange for good celestial techniques. I''ll have to try my luck at the Celestial Technique Hall," Yun Xiao exined.

    "The celestial techniques housed in the Celestial Technique Hall are so lowly they aren''t even graded¡ªtruth be told, they''re the unwanted refuse that no one else would bother with. Anything of even modest worth is tightly controlled by the Skyruler Immortal Manor." Liu Mumu nced at him with a tinge of apology. "The Liu Family''s celestial techniques have strict rules against dissemination. So, I''m sorry. Though you call me master, there''s not much I can teach you."

    "An Arbiter master teaches the celestialws and the ways of the world, not the lineage of cultivation, so no need for apologies, Master." Yun Xiao shook his head with a smile, then added, "But I still need to visit the Celestial Technique Hall."

    "You''re scavenging through trash?" Liu Mumu raised her eyebrows in disbelief.

    "Can''t help it, I''m broke," Yun Xiao paused, "Who knows? Maybe I''ll find gold in the garbage."

    "Yes, yes, every brainless protagonist in those wild tales finds an ancient divine artifact with its own sage grandfather at some roadside stall. Go on, dig like those shallow newbloods." Liu Mumuughed sarcastically.

    "..." Yun Xiao only smiled in response.

    Worried he might wander off, and not wanting others to make things difficult for him, Liu Mumu personally escorted him to the Celestial Technique Hall.

    Yun Xiao entered and emerged within a quarter of an hour.

    "So, what did you freeload?" Liu Mumu asked.

    "Not a hair," Yun Xiao admitted, embarrassed.

    "A waste of time!" Liu Mumu looked outside and noted that it was already dark.

    "Go back to your cultivation room and have a quiet night," she suggested.

    "Master, there''s still one very important thing I haven''t done," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "What now?" Liu Mumu looked exasperated; the boy always had something up his sleeve!

    Yun Xiao exined, "I heard thate dawn, the Skyruler Immortal Manor in Sky Soaring City will select five Arbiters under 30 years old to go to the Thunder Department. Registration is tonight."

    Liu Mumu paused, then said, "You''re really considering joining the tournament?"

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded seriously.

    "I know you''re capable, but honestly, this isn''t the ce for you." Liu Mumu shook her head.

    "Why not?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "The Immortal Tournament in the Celestial Court is fundamentally a showcase, a venue for the divine families to evaluate their youths¡ªit''s performative in nature. Those who attend are the progeny of high ranking Immortals, typically young fighters with their elders watching and chatting merrily on the sidelines... Even as a daughter of a Rank 6 Judicial Immortal, I seldom get the chance to participate," Liu Mumu said, clearly annoyed.

    "So, the essence of this affair leans more towards social standing thanbat prowess?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    It was a simple concept, akin to the scions of lords and ministers in the Cloud Nationpeting in martial disys¡ªprimarily those young heirs gaining experience at the grassroots level.

    "Exactly." Liu Mumu nodded.

    "Master, are you saying that our Sky Soaring City''s five spots are already predetermined?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes," Liu Mumu nodded, essentially confirming it.

    "That doesn''t seem quite right, does it? Choosing Arbiters based on high birth rather than merit. What if they perform poorly? Wouldn''t that be embarrassing?" Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "What kind of fantasy are you living in where the true masters are hidden among themon folk?" Liu Mumu red at him. "Their parents are at least Rank 6 Celestial Officers, with exceptional bloodlines and talents, nurtured from a rich pool of resources since they were three years old. By almost 30 years old, they''ve far surpassed their peers."

    After a pause, she continued, "To tell you the truth, these fivepeting Arbiters are indeed the strongest. Not only are they powerful and talented, but they''ve also amassed significant achievements. All under 30 years old, they''ve reached the rank of Rank 8 Arbiter Commanders, equal to my own rank... So tell me, do you still think this is collusion? This is just the reality."

    "Five Arbiter Commanders?" Yun Xiao hadn''t expected hispetitors to be of such high caliber. He thought Lu Changfeng was decent in Sky Soaring City, but clearly, he was a notch below these five.

    "Don''t waste your time on things that aren''t meant for you," Liu Mumu said, preparing to leave.

    "But Master, Sun Xiaoqi said anyone meeting the age criteria could register. There''s still an internal selection tomorrow morning," Yun Xiao protested.

    "It''s just a formality." Liu Mumu pointed outside. "As for the registration, check the board outside and see how many have signed up."

    "Just those five?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Isn''t that obvious? Everyone knows their ce. The great Celestial Officers of Sky Soaring City have already decided on the five who will bring them glory. If their children perform well, it reflects well on them... Who would be so foolish as to make trouble just before departure? Even if someone did defeat those five, do you think their parents would be pleased?" Liu Mumu countered.

    "There shouldn''t be such fools," Yun Xiao said.

    "Exactly." Liu Mumu put a hand on his shoulder, speaking earnestly, "I''m begging you, please keep to yourself, just stay in your cultivation room, alright?"

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Go then." Liu Mumu rxed a bit, seeing hispliant attitude.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    She had hurried back also to make him give up the notion.

    "See you tomorrow, Master." Yun Xiao waved goodbye and headed towards his cultivation room.

    Near the cultivation room, he took a detour towards the entrance of the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Just as expected, at the entrance, the board proudly disyed five names written in elegant calligraphy, eachbeled as Arbiter Commanders¡ªRank 8 Celestial Officers!

    Without another word, Yun Xiao added the name <em>Lu Yao</em> to the board. Instantly, his rank appeared on the board¡ªRank 9 Arbiter Initiate!

    After writing, Yun Xiaonded on the ground, satisfied with his handiwork, ready to leave.

    Just then, a crisp and melodious female voice called out from behind him, "Hey little punk, who do you think you are signing up there!?"

 Chapter 542: Fools Luck

    Chapter 542: Fool''s Luck

    Yun Xiao turned at the sound, looking back.

    Beneath the dark canvas of the sky wherentern lights flickered, two women approached from the bustling street market. They were not merely as beautiful as Immortals; they were genuine celestial maidens of the nine heavens!

    A mystical fog wrapped around them, their skin smooth as jellied cream, faces fresh as blossoming peach flowers. Their long dresses were adorned with precious jade, their hairpins glimmering like stars in the milky way. Their charming faces, aquiline noses, and willow-leaf browsplemented their graceful figures, which stood proudly above the mortal dust.

    It was the younger in the green dress who spoke. Her eyes, green as clear water, were lively and lucid, reflecting a rity and nobility that made her seem both naively charming and approachable. Her delicate form seemed to float yet possessed strength, surrounded by a vast aura of immortal essence.

    Her beauty alone, if descended to the mortal realm, would surelypel all beings to worship her.

    Trailing behind was a woman in a blue dress, taller than the one in green, with a figure that curved in enticing outlines. Her blue eyes were as calm as the deep sea, exuding a tranquility, elegance, and maturity that contrasted sharply with herpanion. Her brow held a depth ofposure that well matched the solitary, revered, and ethereally beautiful image of a Heavenly Immortal.

    Though one appeared yful and the other refined, their facial features bore some resemnce, making it easy to deduce they were sisters.

    Clearly, the girl in green was the younger sister.

    It was she who had spoken. When Yun Xiao turned around, she nced at the roster and the name <em>Lu Yao</em> sparked her anger."Hey! What are you doing?" Hands on her hips, she red at Yun Xiao, visibly annoyed.

    "Registering," Yun Xiao said, expressionless.

    "Register, register, register your head!" The girl in green stepped forward, her scent crisp and refreshing as it hit Yun Xiao''s nose, her annoyance clear as she demanded, "Quickly, by the order of thismander, erase your name."

    "Commander?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "You don''t know me?" she asked in surprise.

    "No," he shook his head.

    "What a bumpkin." She pulled a tinum-colored Suan Ni token from her bosom, nearly pressing it against Yun Xiao''s nose.

    He recognized the token; Liu Mumu had one too¡ªa symbol of a Rank 8 Arbiter Commander. The token bore three elegant, flowing characters.

    Her name was Jiang Heqing. This name also appeared on the board behind Yun Xiao, ranking just above his own.

    It was said that at just 20 years old, she was the youngest Rank 8 Celestial Officer at the Skyruler Immortal Manor in Sky Soaring City, setting numerous records and shining as the city''s brightest prodigy.

    "Now do you know who I am?" the girl in green asked.

    "I do. Lu Yao pays his respects to Commander Jiang." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Good, now erase your name," the girl in green said bluntly.

    By erasing, she meant withdrawing his registration, something that indeed required his personal action.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    "I have important matters to attend to tomorrow morning. I don''t have time!" the girl in green said irritably.

    Yun Xiao understood. Originally, if there were five nominees and five registrations, then tomorrow''s selection in Sky Soaring City would merely be a formality, not wasting her time.

    With Yun Xiao registering, making it six candidates for five spots, she would have to attend.

    "Erase it. What are you staring at? Idiot," the girl in green eximed impatiently when he didn''t respond, her temper ring.

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "Commander Jiang, ording to the rules, I have the right topete, so I definitely will not withdraw my registration."

    The girl in green could hardly believe her ears.

    "Are you out of your mind?" she asked coldly, staring at him.

    Yun Xiao didn''t want to argue further and turned to leave.

    "Stop right there!" The girl in green shed in front of him, her eyes now sparking with anger. "Tell me, who sent you to annoy me?"

    "Commander Jiang, if you want to fight, we can do so tomorrow morning. Fighting now wouldn¡¯t draw an audience," Yun Xiao said.

    "Shut up!" The girl in green grabbed his cor, ring at him with her big green eyes. "Are you an Arbiter in training? Who oversees you?"

    "What does that have to do with my registration?" Yun Xiao pulled her hand away, his gaze chilling.

    "You dare touch me?"

    The girl in green quickly retracted her hand when their skin touched, looking at Yun Xiao with even greater irritation and unable to hold back any longer, she snapped, "So you''re a little Rank Arbiter Initiate, and you dare be insolent in front of me? No one has taught you manners, so I will!"

    As she spoke, it seemed she was about to make a move.

    "Qingqing." At that moment, the woman in blue appeared beside the girl in green, holding her hand with a slightly frosty demeanor.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "At the gate of Skyruler Immortal Manor, don¡¯t cause trouble," the woman in blue told the girl in green.

    "Sister! This guy''s like a stubborn mule, he must be sick in the head!" the girl in greenined.

    Throughout her life, from childhood to adulthood, everyone she encountered, even many high-ranking elders, had always bowed and scraped to her.

    She had never met someone like Yun Xiao before.

    The woman in blue nced indifferently at Yun Xiao and said, "Forget it, just make time toe tomorrow morning."

    "That won''t do, sister! My 20th birthday is a big deal, I have too much to do, and I only have time tomorrow morning. I must leave for the Thunder Department in the afternoon," the girl in green urgently exined.

    "He''s currently under the care of Sister Mumu; you should speak to her," the woman in blue suggested.

    "Do you know him?" asked the girl in green.

    Without looking at Yun Xiao, the woman in blue replied, "I just heard about the incident in Sangju City. There was an Arbiter named Lu Yao who survived. It must be him."

    "Oh? Fool''s luck?" The girl in green blinked her beautiful eyes, red at Yun Xiao, and bit her lip. "You little wretch, just wait. I''m going to find Sister Mumu right now and knock all your teeth out."

    With that, she restrained herself from violence. They entered the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Not two steps in, the girl in green asked, puzzled, "Even if he''s under Sister Mumu, doesn''t he understand his ce? Wouldn''t a beating do him some good?"

    The woman in blue shook her head. "I''ve learned a bit about him. Though his life is as cheap as grass, he seems to be a pawn that Liu Zongyu is using to challenge Lord Lu. Our father is about to be promoted; let''s not get involved in their messy affairs."

    "A pawn?" The girl in green rolled her eyes. "No wonder he''s as dumb as a post. What background does he think he has, trying to grab my hand? Lucky I dodged quickly, or I would have been defiled."

    "You silly child, a touch of the hand is hardly a defilement¡­" the woman in blue said with a mix ofughter and exasperation, caressing the young girl''s cheek.

    "Hehe," the girl in green giggled, then suddenly remembered something and quietly asked, "But I heard that Jiang Lanyue, that illegitimate child, was also ughtered?"

    "That''s correct." The woman in blue''s gaze turned chilly. "But isn''t that a good thing for us?"

    "What about father?" the girl in green asked.

    "Who knows if he cares? He has plenty of illegitimate children who can''t be brought into the light. He wouldn''t grieve if a few died," the woman in blue remarked.

    "True¡­" The girl in green nodded thoughtfully. "Still, Liu Zongyu daring to kill Jiang Lanyue along the way shows no small amount of guts."

    "He probably got carried away," the woman in blue said with a coldugh.

    "Sister, should we still go to Liu Mumu?" asked the girl in green.

    "Now is not the time. It would only trouble father." The woman in blue shook her head.

    "But my birthday feast¡­" The thought alone nearly brought the girl in green to tears. She had nned this day for a long time.

    All the second-generation Immortals of Sky Soaring City had received invitations, and yet she, the star of the show, had to make a trip to Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Though it might not dy her much, it was still a hassle!

    The girl in green turned back, ring towards the gate of Skyruler Immortal Manor, biting her lip, "Lu Yao, right? Fine, if you dare not withdraw your registration, tomorrow morning, I''ll make sure you regret it!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside Skyruler Immortal Manor, as Yun Xiao left, he nced once more at the registration board.

    At the very top of the list was the name Jiang Haiyan.

    "Two sisters, Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing, peace under heaven, those are good names."

    These sisters were the pinnacle of talent in Sky Soaring City.

    Jiang Haiyan, the older, was the same age as Lu Yao and the strongest Arbiter under 30 at Skyruler Immortal Manor!

    Their father was the governor of Sky Soaring City, a Rank 5 Celestial Officer named Jiang Taiping. The man in charge of the city! And he was about to be promoted.

    With this promotion, the sisters¡¯ prospects would naturally rise as well, their futures boundless.

    Their paths, along with the Lu An and Lu Yao brothers, might cross on the Arbiter stage, but while some use the position as a stepping stone to greater heights, others dedicated their lives to it, even at the cost of their lives.

    The sisters belonged to the former group, Lu An to thetter.

    Lu Yao, if he were still alive, would undoubtedly belong to thetter as well.

    And now, a new Lu Yao had arrived at a crossroads of fate.

    "Tonight, with peace under heaven and calm waters, there will be no killing." Yun Xiao chuckled softly and went to buy a few jugs of celestial wine before returning alone to his cultivation chamber.

    Along the way, the other Arbiters treated him as an outcast, none willing toe close.

    Whispers about his registration and even the confrontation with the Jiang sisters at the entrance of the Skyruler Immortal Manor had already circted.

    "Ten years gone, and he''s lost his mind on the road."

    "Is this naive youth alive from Sangju City because he''s too clueless?"

    These sneers were like ants crawling into his ears.

    Yet Yun Xiao walked on as if he heard nothing; along these paths, he hade to understand one principle.

    To rise above nder and opportunism, one needed only to cut through it all with a single sword!

    And so, with a jug of wine and a sword, he returned to his cultivation chamber, immersing himself in his swordy, enjoying a night of carefree solitude.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The next day, dawn broke¡­ Because a new name appeared on the registration board, the entrance to the Skyruler Immortal Manor unexpectedly buzzed with activity.

    "The challenger is Lu Yao!"

    The people of Sky Soaring City knew this name well. Just a few days ago, this youngster had be an Arbiter and even reported a senior Arbiter.

    As for the affair in Sangju City, Yun Xiao was <em>not</em> the main character, and the people didn''t think much of it. But today, his name once again drew a crowd to the gates of the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    "What''s this guy doing? A mere Arbiter Initiate daring to enter the ranks of geniuses?"

    "He probably didn''t get the memo and registered by mistake."

    "I heard it''s Commander Jiang Heqing''s 20th birthday today. Is this Lu Yao kid a bit clueless?"

    Early in the morning, before the Arbiters even emerged, the gates were already abuzz with gossip.

    Just then, amid a thunderous sound, the great doors of the Skyruler Immortal Manor swung open!

    A host of Arbiters stepped over the threshold and walked out.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 543: Stepping Out For Battle!

    Chapter 543: Stepping Out For Battle!

    The atmosphere in the room stiffened instantly.

    Outside, the morous crowd silenced themselves, turning their gaze respectfully toward the group of Arbiters.

    ¡°Is a Judicial Immortal personally presiding?¡±

    All eyes instantly focused on one figure standing centrally among them!

    He was a towering middle-aged man, most of his armor shimmering in gold, designed to project an aura of formidable authority.

    Beneath his helmet was a face of rugged sternness, with deep-set eyes, a hooked nose, and thick white eyebrows that likened him to a hawk of the Celestial Court, his presencemanding the attention of all.

    This was Liu Zongyu, the Rank 6 Judicial Immortal!

    He also presided over the Skyruler Immortal Manor!

    In terms of rank, he stood shoulder to shoulder with Lord Lu, who was in charge ofmerce, but in terms of actual power, the Judicial Immortal held a slight edge.Beside Liu Zongyu stood several Sky Protectors of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, along with dozens of Arbiter Commanders.

    Naturally, Liu Mumu was there as well!

    It was clear that the Skyruler Immortal Manor ced great importance on the Celestial Court''s Immortal Tournament!

    ¡°The Judicial Immortal¡¯s grave demeanor must mean he knows about the six registrants,¡± someone whispered.

    Indeed, after Liu Zongyu emerged, he nced at the registration board, then turned his hawk-like gaze back to sweep over the Arbiter ranks andmanded, ¡°Lu Yao, step forward.¡±

    Instantly, all eyes lifted to watch the young man who wasn''t supposed to belong at this event yet be the unintended focal point.

    The crowd around Yun Xiao parted!

    He stepped forward smoothly, approaching Liu Zongyu.

    ¡°You and your brother don¡¯t look much alike,¡± Liu Zongyu noted.

    Yun Xiao looked at him and nodded. ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±

    Yet, in his heart, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but wonder who Lu An had sought out after returning to the Celestial Court? Especially after finding out the Three Immortals were backed by the Peach Blossom Immortal. Could it possibly be his prospective father-inw, Liu Zongyu, who thought lowly of him?

    Yun Xiao harbored his suspicions, choosing not to delve deeper. He knew Liu Mumu must know something.

    ¡°Very well!¡± Liu Zongyu looked at him and suddenly smiled.

    cing his hand on Yun Xiao¡¯s shoulder and facing the public, he proimed loudly, ¡°Here stands a mere Arbiter Initiate, yet he possesses the courage to face ridicule and dares to challenge peaks that others deem insurmountable. Such spirit is exactly what every Arbiter should embody!¡±

    People knew he was praising Yun Xiao, and many echoed themendations. But even as theyuded him, a joke yed silently on their lips. What a fool!

    "Have all the other registrants arrived?" Liu Zongyu asked.

    The crowd searched for a moment, but clearly, none had shown up yet. Just then, from afar, a swirl of colorful clouds rolled in, bearing many grand Immortals whose majestic presence descended upon the scene.

    "It''s Governor Jiang!"

    "Governor Jiang himself hase!"

    As the chief authority of Sky Soaring City and the sole Rank 5 Celestial Officer of the city, his arrival instantly escted the atmosphere to a fever pitch.

    "It seems Governor Jiang is personally leading the team to the Thunder Department this year?"

    "That''s right! He''s about to take up his new post there, and two of his daughters who are participating in the tournament are with him. It''s a good chance for them to get acquainted."

    People spoke knowingly among themselves.

    "From a Rank 5 Governor Immortal, he''s moving up to the ss of a great Golden Immortal!"

    They couldn''t help but feel profound respect.

    The term Governor Immortal meant the ruler of a Celestial Court jurisdiction, typically a position far removed from the core of the Celestial Court.

    But to step into the ranks of Golden Immortals, even if assigned to the Thunder Department, meant truly entering the innermost circle of power in the Heavenly Pce!

    The leap from Rank 5 to Rank 4 was monumental!

    Everyone revered Governor Jiang, known as Jiang Taiping.

    Yun Xiao turned to look and saw that Jiang Taiping was not as imposing as he had imagined. Instead, he was an elderly man in a white robe, appearing quite genial and slightly ethereal, like a hermit from beyond the world.

    He was nked by two young women, one in green and one in blue, both strikingly beautiful, fair-skinned, poised, and proudly aloof.

    These were his daughters, Haiyan and Heqing.

    Alongside Jiang Taiping were several other Rank 6 Celestial Officers from Sky Soaring City, who hade to the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    In all of Sky Soaring City, the only Rank 6 Celestial Officer who wasn''t here was probably Lord Lu.

    These Rank 6 Celestial Officers assisted Jiang Taiping in governing Sky Soaring City''sw enforcement,merce, and mining, among other responsibilities.

    Naturally, the other three Arbiter Commanders in their twenties, listed on the registration board, were also progeny of these high-ranking officers, all direct descendants.

    They stood alongside Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing, three young men of striking handsomeness, each surpassing both Jiang Lanyue and Lu Changfeng in demeanor.

    At that moment, both the young and old had gathered.

    "Governor!" Liu Zongyu led all the Arbiters in a salute to Jiang Taiping.

    "Dispense with the formalities." Jiang Taiping chuckled warmly, his movements as fluid as the drifting clouds. "Today, the spotlight is on the young ones; let''s give them our time."

    Behind Governor Jiang, the Celestial Officers smiled, speaking little.

    The presence of Yun Xiao stirred a touch of awkwardness in the air. The scale of the event had surpassed all expectations, catching many unprepared.

    Fortunately, Liu Zongyu was a man of swift action.

    He stepped forward and announced, "Six talents have registered, but there are only five spots. By regtion, I can select two topete for one spot through battle¡ªthe victor will join, the loser will depart."

    The crowd murmured in anticipation, their expectations aligned with his statement.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Lu Yao really doesn¡¯t know his ce; why stir trouble in such a setting?"

    "Indeed, which of these prodigies could he possibly surpass?"

    "He wouldn''t reach their knees even if he jumped..."

    Before Liu Zongyu could name the challengers, whispers already filled the air.

    Then, a man in green stepped forward and bowed to Liu Zongyu. "Honored Judicial Immortal, I wish to fight."

    The other two, seeing the opportunity taken, showed a hint of regret.

    Jiang Heqing, the youngest and indeed the weakest by rule, was meant to battle Yun Xiao for the spot. Yet, voluntary substitution was permissible.

    Unexpectedly, Jiang Heqing nced at the man in green and snapped, "Don¡¯t meddle where you''re not needed. Stand aside!"

    With that, she walked to the center, waving her hand impatiently at the crowd, "Move back, don¡¯t block my view. I''m about to crush an easy opponent."

    It was clear she was angered.

    "Now Lu Yao has really done it¡ªhe¡¯s in big trouble!"

    Despite the blunders, the people of Sky Soaring City still held a fondness for Lu Yao, stirring their concern.

    "Hopefully, the little princess of Sky Soaring City goes easy on him, leaving him a lifeline."

    Worry marked their faces as Yun Xiao calmly stepped forward, approaching Jiang Heqing.

    Seeing this, Liu Zongyu dered, "Then let it be between Jiang Heqing and Lu Yao, two young talents, to decide the oue."

    His words settled the matter, marking Lu Yao''s breach of etiquette.

    Many sighed in the moment.

    Among the Arbiter ranks, several smiled in schadenfreude. Most came from humble beginnings and so held little sympathy for Yun Xiao, who, despite his ordinary origins andck of worldly wisdom, always sought to stand out.

    Only Liu Mumu, arms crossed, leaned against a Suan Ni beast sculpture at the entrance of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, her gaze deep and fixed on the fearless young man in white armor moving forward.

 Chapter 544: Do You Accept Defeat?

    Chapter 544: Do You ept Defeat?

    "What sort of strength does Lu Yao possess?"

    "It was said he couldn''t even project his spirit during the Arbiter examination. Yet, he had thebat power of a True Immortal."

    "So, is he a True Immortal now?"

    As Yun Xiao and Jiang Heqing already stood opposed at the gates of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, people glimpsed his carefree demeanor and couldn''t help but wonder.

    "But isn''t that still too far from being an Arbiter Commander?"

    "Even the youngestmander among the Arbiters is at the Perfect Essence Manifestation Realm."

    So, even with their doubts, people found it hard to ept Yun Xiao''s absurd and reckless invitation to be humiliated.

    The primarily Yin-Yang Immortal onlookers continued to back away, giving ample space for the battle.

    This was a mark of respect for amander among Arbiters.In terms of talent, Jiang Heqing was heralded as the top among the youths of Sky Soaring City!

    Today, she donned the cial and solemn Suan Ni Arbiter armor, which sculpted her delicate figure. Her green eyes sparkled through the celestial mist like sprites of the forest, vivacious and exquisite.

    "Shall we begin?" Jiang Heqing didn''t spare Yun Xiao another nce, asking Liu Zongyu straightforwardly, with little room for politeness.

    "Proceed," Liu Zongyu replied.

    With the drop of Liu Zongyu''s words, Jiang Heqing flicked her wrist, sending a wave of green torrent from her slender hand, transforming into thousands of swimming fish that violently crashed towards Yun Xiao.

    To her, this was a mere flick of the wrist.

    With one p, the crowd gasped.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The river surged, swallowing Yun Xiao whole.

    "Is it over?"

    Just as this thought emerged in everyone''s minds, the young man in white armor effortlessly broke through the torrent, appearing before Jiang Heqing in the blink of an eye.

    He stood untouched, as if only a breeze had brushed against him.

    "Hmm?" Jiang Heqing was about to leave when she suddenly saw Yun Xiao right before her eyes. Her eyebrows knit together.

    With no words, Yun Xiao shifted from stillness to a sudden flurry, his hand releasing a burst of azure brilliance.

    This was a Flying Sword unleashed at close range!

    For a Sword Cultivator, this was routine, so Jiang Heqing was not taken aback.

    She snorted coldly and reached out to catch it!

    But in that instant, the azure Flying Sword erupted with a force that shook her heart. The space of the Great Dao Celestial Realm seemed to liquefy and tear, the azure light piercing like a caustic drill, bringing lethal damage!

    This was merely a casual strike from Yun Xiao!

    "You!" In that terrifying moment, Jiang Heqing''s pretty face transformed with shock.

    The looming threat of death overshadowed all disbelief!

    At this critical juncture, she suddenly projected her spirit, manifesting in front of her as a majestic Immortal with a human torso and a fish tail, wielding a trident!

    "Ocean Immortal!"

    Cries of awe reflected people¡¯s respect for Jiang Heqing''s ancestral spirit.

    But this sudden appearance of the Ocean Immortal was a desperate act to save her life!

    The moment the giant Immortal of the deep sea appeared, his trident precisely struck the azure brillianceunched by Yun Xiao!

    With a nging noise, the azure light sparked fiercely as it flew past Jiang Heqing, missing her.

    However, the trident, the arm, and even half of the torso of Jiang Heqing''s Ocean Immortal exploded, bursting into a spray of green liquid!

    She staggered backward three steps, nearly falling to the ground.

    "What is that?" Her green eyes widened, staring nkly at Yun Xiao, momentarily unable toprehend.

    The surrounding crowd shivered, sharing Jiang Heqing''s bewildered expression, staring at Yun Xiao in astonishment.

    "What''s happening with Lu Yao?"

    At that moment, a chorus of astonished voices rose and fell. Many of those who had earlier thought him foolhardy now felt a touch embarrassed.

    It was clear to all, the power of his sword was genuine!

    In that silent moment, he retracted his Flying Sword, transforming it back into a three-foot azure de held in his hand. His eyes fixed on Jiang Heqing, he spoke slowly, "The boring task of proving oneself is over now. Shall we bring out our true skills and settle this fairly, ording to the rules?"

    With a swish, Jiang Heqing''s eyes turned cold, staring intently at Yun Xiao. "You could continue to y the fool to catch the tiger, striking me down while you have the advantage."

    "I would, but I reckon you''d not be satisfied." Yun Xiao quirked an eyebrow.

    "Heh," she scoffed, her anger seemingly abated, reced by a fierce will to fight. She no longer detested Yun Xiao. The reason was simple!

    Initially, she thought Yun Xiao was just irritating her, wasting time.

    But now, this young man had proven with a single sword strike that he had the skill. Given Jiang Heqing''s background, she had never feared a challenge from her peers in Sky Soaring City!

    <em>BOOM! </em>She instantly entered a true state ofbat, a green Life Sigil suddenly forming in her palm from the symbol on her forehead, evolving into a green river that circled her body!

    This was the high-quality Heavenly River Sigil.

    Yun Xiao noticed that even Jiang Heqing''s Runes were stuck at 9,999,999, indicating a very solid cap.

    "Lu Yao, how old are you?" Jiang Heqing asked.

    "Twenty seven," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Seven years older than me, and a worthy opponent here in Sky Soaring City." Her words resonated widely among the crowd, stirring a connection with Yun Xiao, a young man of humble origins, and they began to cheer for him!

    Meanwhile, the expressions on the faces of the Arbiters, be it the Judicial Immortals or the ordinary Rank 9 Arbiters, were quite peculiar.

    Considering the recent murder case in Sangju City, many among them felt a seismic shift within!

    Regardless of what others thought, Yun Xiao was already locked in battle with Jiang Heqing.

    With a resounding boom, Jiang Heqing unleashed a celestial treasure from her hand, its grade unknown to Yun Xiao. It was like a long scroll of the real world, within which flowed nine rivers sparkling with starlight. These rivers spilled into reality, roaring and twisting into nine tumultuous streams beside Jiang Heqing!

    "The governor has indeed passed the Nine Heavens River Map to his darling daughter, showing his deep affection for Jiang Heqing."

    "This pair of treasured daughters are truly exceptional!"

    Amid the crowd''s envy, Jiang Heqing maneuvered the Nine Heavens River Map as if she were controlling a hundred thousand majestic mountains. Under its imposing force, even the buildings of the Skyruler Immortal Manor behind her shook.

    Surrounded by these nine celestial rivers, the young woman in the Arbiter armor stood valiant andmanding, her charm and authority reaching the heavens,pelling everyone to look up in awe.

    Many young men watched, their eyes zed with infatuation and desire, yet also filled with a sense of inferiority, daring not to dream that they might one day encounter such an exalted celestial.

    They envied Yun Xiao, but s, he was oblivious to romance. As Jiang Heqing brought down the Nine Heavens River Map with crushing force, Yun Xiao, wielding the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, soared with his Sovereign Sword. Like an azure celestial river, he broke through the roaring of the Nine Heavens River Map with a whoosh!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The six-foot Sovereign Sword beneath his feet spawned mighty azure mes, which, in turn, evolved into a spinning azure lotus in the air!

    <em>HUM! </em>As the azure lotus spun, the azure mes surged even more violently.

    "Isn''t this the unranked ming Azure Lotus from the Celestial Technique Hall''s Sovereign Sword techniques?"

    Within the Arbiter ranks, many recognized it.

    This was a Sovereign Sword technique so mundane that even ordinary Arbiters disdained it, naturally drawing a round of disdainful tongue clicks.

    But just as the derision began, the spinning of the azure lotus in the sky elerated to a blur!

    Next, the mes of the azure lotus twisted the space of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, ripping open nine massive void rifts!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>These nine ck void rifts connected directly to the spinning azure lotus, like a gyroscope tied with nine strangling chains!

    <em>HUM! </em>The azure mes on the lotus spread into these nine ck void rifts, where the powers of the Great Dao Celestial Realm and the void merged. The nine void rifts, entwined with raging fire, tore through the heavens and furiously spiraled upwards!

    "What kind of ming Blue Lotus is this?!"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    As the move suddenly transformed, incredulous shouts erupted from the ranks of the Arbiters.

    Even Liu Zongyu, a Judicial Immortal, furrowed his brow, his eyes filled with shock.

    It was a genuine shock!

    Having been at the Skyruler Immortal Manor for over 100 years, he was intimately familiar with every celestial technique there. This youngster''s initial move was definitely the ming Azure Lotus, but the subsequent evolution was nothing short of miraculous!

    With one move, he dazzled the entire arena!

    And it wasn¡¯t just the dazzling effect; the rotating azure lotus, carrying nine azure me void rifts, quelled water with fire and struck the Nine Heavens River Map!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Nine Heavens River Map, mighty as it was, was like a sharpened de. But Yun Xiao''s sword technique was a razor-sharp saw, screaming and slicing through it. The nine void rifts entwined around the map like octopus tentacles, brutally spinning in the air!

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>The endless flow of the Nine Heavens River Map burst apart explosively, splitting in two!

    This was both a painting-like celestial treasure and Jiang Heqing''s Heavenly River Sigil!

    The Life Sigil itself being forcefully expelled indicated one thing. Jiang Heqing''s dual control of her celestial treasure and Life Sigil was utterly broken by Yun Xiao''s absolute power and skill in a head-on sh!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The aftershocks of his sword technique tore apart the nine celestial rivers; the azure mes exploded with a piercing howl, cutting through like surfing the high seas. With swift and graceful motions, Yun Xiao shattered everything in his path!

    <em>HUM! </em>In the moment the giant wave parted, Yun Xiao¡¯s whirlwind swordsmanship stopped right in front of the green-eyed young woman. The ming azure sword tip was just a foot away from Jiang Heqing¡¯s chest!

    <em>HUM! </em>A wild storm of azure mes swept past Jiang Heqing, casting her pale face in a ghastly hue. Her helmetless head, with ck hair whipping about and tinged with azure mes, looked stunningly brilliant!

    Of course, the sight of Yun Xiao standing on his sword, eyes zing and looking down at her, d in his Arbiter armor, was imposing. His handsome face appeared ethereal and dashing!

    His disdainful look was extremely irksome to Jiang Heqing, but the fierce swordsmanship he had just disyed still left her shaken.

    "Jiang Heqing, I registered ording to the rules and defeated you fair and square, winning the honor to represent Sky Soaring City. Do you ept this?" Yun Xiao¡¯s words, in the dead silence of the arena, were especially thunderous.

    "I do not ept!" Jiang Heqing trembled as she spoke, her eyes red as she looked at Yun Xiao, biting her lip. "You are seven years older than me, defeating me is no big deal!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 545: Were All On the Same Boat!

    Chapter 545: We''re All On the Same Boat!

    Yun Xiao could only smile without a word in response to that im.

    "My ce is mine, no matter what you say, and no sly tricks can change that," Yun Xiao dered, sheathing his Sovereign Sword and walking towards Liu Zongyu.

    "Lu Yao!" Jiang Heqing''s chest heaved with emotion, unustomed to the scornful gazes that surrounded a loser. She had prepared herself to shine brilliantly in the Immortal Tournament.

    Yet, there she was, defeated publicly without recourse.

    And Yun Xiao, in his final act, had not harmed her, sparing her face enough to honor the governor.

    A buzz of astonishment rose all around just then.

    People widened their eyes, looking at the youth, calm as light clouds and a gentle breeze, their throats clogged, unable to speak for a long time.

    "What¡¯s happening..."

    "I don¡¯t know, Lu Yao seems like he¡¯s be divine!""But didn¡¯t he just advance to the True Immortal Realm? Jiang Heqing is in the Perfect Essence Manifestation Realm!"

    The rank of Arbiters, dry-mouthed, struggled to ept this. A fool they had scorned now stood gloriously before them, leaving those who had ndered him embarrassed.

    "Something¡¯s off with this Lu Yao! Could he be involved with the Sangju City murder case?"

    "Look into it!"

    After a brief silence, various loud discussions erupted.

    Admiration, confusion, jealousy, and sinister intentions mingled in the air.

    "Silence!" Liu Zongyu, after a long moment, gave the smiling Governor Jiang a stealthy nce, then announced softly, "In that case, Lu Yao shall represent..."

    "Father!" Jiang Heqing returned to her father¡¯s side, grasping his hand and tearfully pleading, "I still wish to join the tournament at the Thunder Department!"

    "Alright, alright." Jiang Taiping smiled warmly, patting his daughter¡¯s head, then said to Liu Zongyu, "Zongyu, no need for announcements. I¡¯ll speak to some old friends at the Thunder Department; adding an extra spot will do."

    "Agreed." Liu Zongyu nodded.

    The crowd was startled, somewhat uproarious inside.

    After all that, the governor could easily add another spot. Had Yun Xiao fought for nothing? Not at all! Had he not fought, how could the governor have been persuaded to grant him that extra spot?

    "Alright, this guy is not bad; let''s bring him along." Jiang Heqing nced at Yun Xiao and nudged her lips slightly.

    After she spoke, she whispered to Jiang Haiyan beside her, "Sister, he has real skill and good looks, no background¡ªa prime candidate for our cause."

    Jiang Haiyan pursed her lips and said, "But he''s a murderer, responsible for the death of fifteen Arbiters, including that unruly illegitimate son."

    "..." Jiang Heqing froze.

    Jiang Haiyan nced at their ever-smiling father and added, "However, father seems unconcerned, so it¡¯s not for me to worry about."

    As her words fell, a thunderous noise erupted in the distance as a blue and green vessel, powered by a Celestial Sourcecore, dramatically descended.

    "That¡¯s the governor''s flying vessel, The Serenity!"

    Being aboard The Serenity was a privilege reserved for luminaries, envied by all.

    A single voyage was a tale for a lifetime.

    "We set off."

    With a smile, the governor soared first, boarding the vessel.

    Following him were the Jiang sisters, three other Arbiter Commanders, several Rank 6 Celestial Officers, and more.

    "Liu Mumu." The governor suddenly turned back and smiled. "Since Lu Yao is headed to the Thunder Department, perhaps he could use an elder''s guidance. Apany him."

    Liu Zongyu''s face tightened upon hearing this.

    Liu Mumu pursed her lips and nodded, "It would be my honor, Governor."

    Then, stepping forward, she nced at Yun Xiao.

    "Sorry to have implicated you as a hostage," Yun Xiao said.

    "I have nothing to worry about since my father has done nothing. It¡¯s you who''s really in trouble, having ced yourself in the fire. I''m curious to see how you''ll survive the proper order of the Thunder Department," Liu Mumu replied.

    "Uh huh." Yun Xiao gave a small smile.

    "You, well..." Liu Mumu didn''t know what else to say.

    She passed by Yun Xiao and boarded the flying vessel.

    Yun Xiao followed behind her; about thirty people in total were now aboard.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The vessel lifted off, rushing towards the depths of the Thunder Department.

    "Best wishes to the six prodigies, may you bring glory to Sky Soaring City!"

    Below, cheers rose unceasingly.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In Sangju City, a sword vessel stealthilynded in the shadows.

    A burly Arbiter emerged and vanished into the city.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Liu Zongyu, what brings you here?" Lord Lu looked up in the dim room to see the imposing figure of the Arbiter.

    It was indeed Liu Zongyu, who sat down across from Lord Lu without a trace of emotion, arms folded, his eyes fiercely fixed on the man known for his deep cunning.

    "I''vee to tell you about something that just happened in Sky Soaring City," Liu Zongyu said.

    "Speak," Lord Lu responded, his gaze darkening.

    "Lu Yao has just publicly defeated Jiang Heqing, who''s in the Perfect Essence Manifestation Realm, and secured a ce to participate in the Immortal Tournament at the Thunder Department," Liu Zongyu exined.

    <em>CRACK! </em>The stone table before Lord Lu suddenly shattered.

    He stood up, ring deathly at Liu Zongyu, his voice venomous, "Are you trying to piss me off, unting this in my face? Liu Zongyu, do not provoke me!"

    "Calm down, you misunderstand." Liu Zongyu looked up slowly. "What if I told you that I have nothing to do with this Lu Yao from beginning to end?"

    "And why should I believe you?" Lord Lu frowned.

    Liu Zongyu chuckled. "Lu An and Mumu had a connection, and at my suggestion, Lu An disappeared. Do you really think I would use his brother to kill the governor''s illegitimate son?"

    "..." Lord Lu paused, stunned.

    "Did you take care of Lu An?" he asked.

    Liu Zongyu¡¯s expression turned serious. "After Lu An¡¯s descent to the mortal realm, you, I, and the governor, we''re all in the same boat. We maypete, but we abide by the arrangements from above. Why would I foolishly seek my own demise now?"

    "Huh." Lord Lu sat back down, mocking himself, "Damn, I let a kid y me!"

    "You were too paranoid." Liu Zongyu smiled.

    With a snort, Lord Lu stood up, heading for the door.

    "What are you doing?" Liu Zongyu asked.

    "Going back to Sky Soaring City to kill that boy," Lord Lu said coldly.

    "You''re a step toote; the governor has already taken him to the Thunder Department," Liu Zongyu informed him.

    "Smart move," Lord Lu sneered, "Then I''ll head to the Thunder Department."

    "You better hurry, then. If the boy makes a name for himself there, he''ll be harder to kill," Liu Zongyu advised.

    "I know." Lord Lu looked at Liu Zongyu. "But why are you so eager for me to kill Lu Yao?"

    "..." Liu Zongyu did not answer.

    "I understand." Lord Lu gave a chilling smile. "Your daughter got involved with the Lu brothers, jeopardizing her future. You want to use me to end her fixation."

    Liu Zongyu stood up. "Be decisive. After all, we are on the same path."

    With those words, he left the dark room first.

    Outside, Liu Chaochao was waiting.

    "Father." He bowed his head in greeting.

    "Back to the Skyruler Immortal Manor," Liu Zongyumanded.

    "Yes!"

 Chapter 546: Supreme Everlasting Nine Heavens Sovereign Thunder Immortal Formation!

    Chapter 546: Supreme Evesting Nine Heavens Sovereign Thunder Immortal Formation!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Serenity tore through the mists of the Celestial Sourcecore, chasing the dark canopy of the sky.

    Yun Xiao stood at the prow, gazing at the fiery expanse of the Celestial Court, where clouds rolled and tumbled in a disy of chaos. The Worldly Dao Heart within him soared with the turbulent mes and mist around him.

    "Were it not for the Creator Immortal, reborn in the lowest rungs of the Cloud Nation among the feeble, how could I have ever witnessed such a grand and magnificent celestial pce?" he mused.

    In such a world, despite the lurking dangers and numerous fierce beings, Yun Xiao''s spirit surged with excitement.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    He stood amid the tempest, his eyes zing, adorned in a suit of tinum Arbiter armor that shimmered in crimson and gold through the fiery waves. His face glowed wlessly, the whole scene painting a breathtaking picture.

    Liu Mumu stood beside him, her tall, slender figure leaning against the ship''s rail. She too was dressed in Arbiter armor, tailored for women, entuating her delicate curves and lending her a look both valiant and beautiful.

    It must be said that the designer of this Arbiter armor had an eye for aesthetics; irrespective of gender, the wearer not only gained protection but also a boost in allure and presence.

    "You are remarkable in appearance, and with the Arbiter armor, you are even more formidable," Liu Mumu remarked, turning to nce at him, unable to hide her admiration.

    "It''s rare for a master topliment someone''s looks, which in the path of immortality, is often the least useful trait," Yun Xiao replied with a smile."It has its uses, at least pleasing to the eye. It would be more useful if you were of noble birth," Liu Mumu responded, shaking her head.

    "Sorry to say, I am but amoner, as insignificant as dust, my life as trivial as an ant," Yun Xiao said with a rueful smile.

    "Nonsense," Liu Mumu retorted, rolling her eyes, yet she suddenly sighed.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "I was just thinking how you and your brother could be so different in looks, one as if from heaven and the other from earth. Then I remembered, you''re not the real Lu Yao," she said, shaking her head in resignation.

    "You''re probably thinking, ''If only it were true,''" Yun Xiao said.

    "Perhaps," Liu Mumu replied softly, her gaze lowered.

    "Master, whether I am or am not isn''t so important. There are many like Lu Yao who enter the path of immortality with dreams in their hearts. I am just one of them. We are of a kind, not a single person," Yun Xiao dered.

    Liu Mumu, after hearing this, gave him a serious look. "You do have a way with words, young man."

    "Have I convinced you?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "For now, I believe," Liu Mumu responded.

    Yun Xiao met her eyes, his own expression intense. "Then tell me, what happened during the two days when Lu An returned to the Celestial Court?"

    Liu Mumu''s body shook slightly, and she remained silent, her eyes struggling as she shook her head at Yun Xiao.

    "Don''t want to say, or afraid to say?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    After a moment of silence, Liu Mumu answered, "You think too highly of yourself, wishing to change many things. But I see no hope for change in this world. For now, think about how to survive the selection in the Thunder Department."

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Can you tell me your real name?" Liu Mumu asked.

    "Master," Yun Xiao held onto the rail, giving a carefree smile, "How many times have I told you? My name is Lu Yao."

    "Alright then." Liu Mumu smiled helplessly, then softly called out, "Lil Yao."

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded emphatically.

    "The Thunder Department is near. Is this your first time?" Liu Mumu suddenly smiled, like a flower blossoming, a sign that she had let go of some of her concerns and truly epted Yun Xiao.

    "It is my first time." As Yun Xiao spoke, he looked ahead.

    Through the mists in front, numerous purple lightning serpents slithered, revealing the approaching world to be a ce of wild ferocity!

    "Master, could you introduce me?" Yun Xiao paused. "Otherwise, they might mistake your disciple for a simpleton."

    After speaking, he nced over his shoulder.

    In that direction, the high-ranking officers of Sky Soaring City gathered, and the five young Arbiter Commanders formed a circle, speaking with an elegance andughter Yun Xiao couldn''t breach.

    "An introduction?" Liu Mumu looked ahead and then said, "Then you''d better listen closely."

    "I''m all ears."

    Liu Mumu began in a solemn tone, "The Thunder Department, under the jurisdiction of the Celestial Court, controls the enforcement and punishment throughout the Great Dao Celestial Realm and all its mortal realms. Thunder, the supreme judicial power of the Celestial Court, governs life and death, prosperity and decay, rewarding and punishment of good and evil, the movement of clouds, the ying of demons, the subjugation of devils, andmands the thunder. It serves the celestial will above and aids the tormented souls below.

    "The Thunder Department is divided into one high office, two chambers, and three bureaus. The high office is the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office. The two chambers are the Five Thunders Chambers and the Exorcism Chamber. The three bureaus are the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, the Thunder Capitol Bureau, and the Thunder Department Bureau.

    "Our destination is the headquarters of the Thunder Department, the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office. Just this office aloneprises 36 internal courts, eastern and western tforms, arcane pavilions, four offices, six courts, and various bureaus. Under the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General and the Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General, the Five Directions Barbaric Thunder Envoys, and the Chief Military Thunder Emissaries, all report to the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign, whomands 36 Thunder Dukes to execute celestial thunder."

    After Liu Mumu finished, her eyes held a deep reverence.

    "The Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign? That''s a long name. Is he a super high ranking officer in the Celestial Court?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes. He is a Rank 1 Celestial Officer of the Celestial Court,monly known as the Nine Thunders Sovereign. He is the highest deity of the Thunder Department and the sovereign of celestial punishment, one of the Eight Sovereigns," Liu Mumu exined, looking at Yun Xiao. "Impressive, right? The highest deity of the Thunder Department is of the same rank as the Chaos Sovereign who once visited our Sky Soaring City, both pirs of the Celestial Court."

    "Impressive." Yun Xiao understood one thing clearly. The Thunder Department before them was undeniably one of the core locations of the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm, with Sky Soaring City merely one of its governed cities.

    This ce bore an unimaginable number of mighty and talented beings.

    Equally, the resources avable for cultivation here were beyond Yun Xiao''s wildest dreams.

    As Liu Mumu finished speaking, she pointed ahead and eximed, "See there? That''s the sacrednd of the Thunder Department!"

    "The sacrednd of the Thunder Department?" Yun Xiao widened his eyes and peered into the distance.

    At the end of the rolling clouds ahead, a vast expanse of suspendednd emerged, a purple continent sorge that its edges were unseen, many times the size of Sky Soaring City!

    Thisnd was cloaked in an endlesswork of purple thunder, with billions of lightning serpents slithering across it, making thend appear as if it wereposed of thunder itself!

    Faintly visible were the endless pces of the Thunder Department, each building aglow with relentless shes of lightning.

    Though not her first visit, Liu Mumu was still struck by its grandeur, inspired to praise, "Thunder, the pivot of yin and yang,mands the very root of all things. Without it, there could be no control over the Heavenly Pce! The universe began with an explosive interaction of yin and yang; so, the function of thunder is also manifested everywhere."

    Thunder! Punishment! Arbiter! These three were closely linked.

    "The Thunder Department Heavenly Land, in in terms, is the dream of all Arbiters. This ce bears thews of heaven!" Liu Mumu pointed forward. "Do you see that vast of thunder covering the sky above the continent?"

    "I see it." As The Serenity drew closer, Yun Xiao could see more clearly; the entire Thunder Department seemed to consist of an ocean and a continent.

    Above, therey a sea of thunder.

    "That is the Supreme Evesting Nine Heavens Sovereign Thunder Immortal Formation, the ultimate weapon of the Thunder Department, handed down from antiquity! Thews of heaven are written within this formation. It is the ultimate symbol of fairness and justice for the Celestial Court and all mortal realms, a crucial instrument in the Celestial Court''s governance of the world," Liu Mumu said solemnly.

    "Truly majestic!" Yun Xiao eximed.

    Yet in his admiring gaze lingered a trace of skepticism. Was it truly fair? That also depended on who wielded such a powerful tool of the Celestial Court, and whether they chose to use it.

    "That''s all for the introduction." Liu Mumu looked at him and asked, "What do you think, are you intimidated?"

    Yun Xiao grinned and replied, "Not at all, I''m even more excited now."

    "..." Liu Mumu was speechless.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "That is the Supreme Evesting Nine Heavens Sovereign Thunder Immortal Formation, the ultimate weapon of the Thunder Department, handed down from antiquity! Thews of heaven are written within this formation. It is the ultimate symbol of fairness and justice for the Celestial Court and all mortal realms, a crucial instrument in the Celestial Court''s governance of the world," Liu Mumu said solemnly.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 547: The Path of Cultivation Sure is Frightening!

    Chapter 547: The Path of Cultivation Sure is Frightening!

    Afterwards, Yun Xiao and Liu Mumu simply gazed in silence at the approaching grandeur of the Thunder Immortal Formation, admiring the majestic beauty of the path of immortality without further words.

    On the other side of The Serenity, Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing entered an elegant secret chamber.

    Their father was seated on the floor, engaged in a serene ritual of tea making and drinking.

    "Come, have a couple of cups, to cool down," Governor Jiang invited with a smile, motioning for his daughters to sit as he poured the tea himself.

    "Father." Jiang Haiyan knelt before him and said, "I have some doubts."

    "Speak, we''re family here; there are no secrets among us," Governor Jiang replied.

    "Lu Yao is obviously the culprit behind the murders in Sangju City. Once Lord Lu and Liu Zhongyu resolve their misunderstanding, they''ll surely want to eliminate this fugitive. Why do we not deal with him and instead give him a chance?" Jiang Haiyan asked.

    "Yeah, daddy! Weren''t you just putting on a show back in Sky Soaring City because it wasn''t convenient to deal with him in public. I thought once we were aboard The Serenity, you''d kill him and throw him overboard," Jiang Heqing added with a pout.

    Herment was natural, revealing this wasn''t the first time for such deeds.Governor Jiangughed again and said, "Well, killing is actually quite a simple affair."

    "Why spare him then?" Jiang Haiyan asked.

    After sipping his tea and savoring it, Governor Jiang said, "It''s just a doubt I have. How does a lowly-born child, missing for ten years, return with such immense talent? Usually, what does that indicate?"

    Jiang Haiyan raised her eyebrows. "A fortuitous encounter? A transformation?"

    "Exactly. This child must possess something valuable," Governor Jiang said with a knowing smile.

    "Then why not just seize it directly!" Jiang Heqing eximed, wide-eyed.

    "Haiyan," Governor Jiang said, not looking at his younger daughter but addressing the elder, "haven''t I taught you? When we deal with someone in our pursuit of immortality, what''s the first thing we do?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Jiang Haiyan thought for a moment and replied, "We thoroughly investigate their background, to avoid colliding with a force we cannot contend with."

    "Exactly." Governor Jiang nodded, his gaze far-reaching as he spoke, "I''m a Rank 5 Heavenly Officer in the Celestial Court, soon to be Rank 4. But even so, above me are those who are Rank 3, Rank 2, and Rank 1, along with a host of royal lineages and some hidden masters. Admittedly, there aren''t many stronger than me, but they do exist, and often those with extraordinary talent are linked to them."

    Jiang Heqing had a sudden realization and asked, "Father, are you worried that Lu Yao has powerful backing?"

    Governor Jiang shook his head with a smile. "Actually, it''s unlikely, but the lesson I want to teach you is this: in the path of cultivation, if we do not strike, we must not act at all. But when we do, it must be with the force of thunder. The path of Immortals is long, filled with countless strong adversaries. We are like tightrope walkers, gauging the timing and situation carefully. If there''s a risk that could lead to total loss, we must eliminate that risk before acting."

    Jiang Haiyan nodded and asked, "Father, we understand. How shall we handle Lu Yao?"

    "What do you think?" Governor Jiang asked with a smile.

    Jiang Haiyan nced at Jiang Heqing and said, "Heqing has a charm that''s impossible to resist; they share a connection now. We could get closer to him, win his favor, and use that to probe his secrets. If he has had a fortuitous encounter, there are two possibilities: either the person who bestowed it upon him is dead or still alive."

    "Ah, so I''m basically a honey pot?" Jiang Heqing clicked her tongue, astonished at the effort required.

    Governor Jiang continued, "What does it matter if they are dead or alive?"

    "If dead, we can kill him and seize his fortune. If alive, we must determine this person''s strength and status before making a decision," Jiang Haiyan responded.

    "Soplicated," Jiang Heqing pouted.

    "Qingqing, this is the path of cultivation, not a street brawl. There are too many in this world who y dumb to devour the tiger. You can be domineering in Sky Soaring City, but in the sacrednd of the Thunder Department, you must endure. If you provoke someone formidable, you could not only destroy yourself but our whole family," Jiang Haiyan said seriously.

    Governor Jiang sighed deeply, reflecting, "All these years, mypetitors, who offended the wrong people, have either died or been ruined. Why have I survived and continued to rise? Because I''ve been cautious and decisive. When we do not strike, we''re amiable and prosperous with everyone. But once we strike, we do so without restraint, determined to crush our opponentpletely."

    "This is the wisdom of father''s dealings," Jiang Haiyan said with reverence.

    Governor Jiang waved his hand with a smile. "Go on, my girls, to secure a fortuitous encounter and its rewards safely, you must use your wits. You were born beautiful, with the advantage of your gender. As long as you grasp the essence of how your father handles affairs, your achievements will surely surpass mine."

    He was confident; his daughters were the radiant jewels of Sky Soaring City.

    "Yes, father." Jiang Haiyan rose to her feet and looked in the direction of Yun Xiao, her gaze icy.

    "A honey trap... how annoying!" Jiang Heqing pouted. But recalling their father''s belief in the young man''s potential, she resigned herself to the task.

    "Remember, the shift in attitude must be gradual; don''t let the acting be too clumsy," Governor Jiang advised with augh.

    "Understood," Jiang Haiyan nodded, pulling her sister from the secret chamber.

    "Sister, must we really seduce him with beauty?" Jiang Heqing asked, somewhat downcast.

    "Not we, you," Jiang Haiyan replied with a smile.

    "Why me? Aren''t you capable? I find you most enticing," Jiang Heqing said, yfully grabbing at her sister, envious. "Such ample assets!"

    "I''m not cute; he wouldn''t like me," Jiang Haiyan said softly.

    "Alright then!" Jiang Heqing sulked, muttering, "If you ask me, you and father are tooplicated. If it were me, knowing the other has something valuable, I''d just kill and destroy all evidence first, without worrying about the consequences."

    "That''s not possible." Jiang Haiyan pinched her cheek, cautioning, "We had an uncle who, without fully understanding someone''s backing, rashly bullied them. The victim''s family descended directly upon Sky Soaring City and yed and eviscerated him right before father."

    "That terrifying?" Jiang Heqing stuck out her tongue, meekly adding, "The path of cultivation is indeed fearsome."

    "Do you need to ask? Don¡¯t let the celestial rules and edicts that loom over us fool you; they are but bubbles in the clouds. This so-called Heavenly Pce is a world where the strong prey upon the weak. Before we bite into this peach, we must first test if it''s poisoned," Jiang Haiyan said thoughtfully.

    "Fine, then I''ll swallow Lu Yao whole! Hehe."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>BOOM! </em>The moment The Serenity ascended into the Thunder Department, it was like crashing into a dense web of lightning, and a thunderous roar filled the air.

    Before the eyes of the passengers unfolded an endless, vast world of thunder.

    The entire continent was built up with cities, skyscrapers, and pces!

    This was a sacrednd, a sprawling, boundless megacity, where countless divisions governed the Celestial Court''s enforcement and punishments, a sacred ce for Arbiters.

    Looking around, the endless pces stretched beyond sight.

    Above, the Thunder Immortal Formation covered the sky, a sea of thunder that rained down lightning continuously, with the wholend alive with constant thunder and lightning... yet the Immortals residing here had long since grown ustomed to it!

    This vast expanse was visibly thriving, majestic, and powerful!

    The Serenity did not stop, but sailed between thend and the Thunder Immortal Formation, passing through countless thunder pces towards the center, the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office!

    Yun Xiao stood on the deck, his gaze sweeping over the scene below¡ªthe marketces, Immortal pedestrians, enforcement squads, and innumerable sword vessels... a ceaseless sight!

    "Now, this is what I call a realm of Immortals!" Yun Xiao took a deep breath, his eyes burning with fervor.

    Soon after, a city enveloped in billions of bolts of lightning appeared before them!

    At the center of the Thunder Immortal Formation, countless pirs of lightning descended, a deluge of electricity engulfing the noble city.

    The spectacle was so magnificent it sent shivers down one''s spine!

    Any mortal arriving in such a world would likely be turned to ashes in an instant.

    This thunderous megacity, bridging thend and the Thunder Immortal Formation, was none other than the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office!

    Even Governor Jiang''s flying vessel could only stop before the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, continuing on foot from there.

    At the entrance, many officials of the Thunder Department were already lined up, awaiting the arrival of Governor Jiang.

    This ce was to be his battlefield from here on out.

    "Liu Mumu, I have a noon banquet to attend. Take the children to the Hall of Thunder to settle in," Governor Jiang, amidstughter with old friends, turned back to instruct.

    "Yes," Liu Mumu nodded.

    At the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, guides would specifically lead the young ones.

    The Arbiter talents,ing from various cities, were all to be quartered at the Hall of Soaring Thunder.

    It was a ce where passion and dreams collided!

    "The initial selection starts this afternoon, and you have only three hours. Don''t get distracted by the hustle and bustle of the Thunder Department and wander off," Governor Jiang kindly reminded.

    "Got it, Daddy," Jiang Heqing responded sweetly.

    "Are these twodies Old Jiang''s daughters?"

    "So beautiful, they don''t look like him at all. I''d say they aren''t his real daughters."

    "Haha!"

    A group of high-ranking officials openly shared jokes,ughing heartily together.

    However, the fact that Governor Jiang could take the teasing without offense spoke volumes about the strength of their friendships.

    He had risen in rank yet maintained such rtions with these officials of the Thunder Department, showcasing his adeptness atworking.

    This was a skill Yun Xiaocked.

    Yet, it must be said, it was precisely because of the prevalence of such individuals that the Celestial Court hardly resembled a sacred ground of cultivation and enlightenment but rather a fierce arena of fame and fortune!

    Competition for resources and power dominated here.

    This was nothing like the Celestial Court Yun Xiao had imagined, yet, on reflection, it seemed only logical.

    Otherwise, how could a world of cultivation without desire or need have an Emperor, Empress Dowager, Princesses, thew-enforcing Thunder Department, military operations, various Immortal officials, and endless heavenly soldiers?

    "Cultivation is not merely about being ethereal and free."

    If it were so, why would the mortal realms suffer so?

    Yun Xiao looked back at the trivial chatter of those officials and quietly stepped into the massive thunderous city.

    Behind him, the two sisters, praised for their beauty, both watched him subtly.

    "Qingqing," Jiang Haiyan whispered to her sister, "Once we settle in, we''ll go find him."

 Chapter 548: Spirit Bungee Jumping!

    Chapter 548: Spirit Bungee Jumping!

    After entering the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, even Jiang Heqing and her peers walked with utmost restraint, no longer daring to raise their voices or act out of line.

    Within the vast confines of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, wherever one''s gaze fell, there slithered lightning serpents. Every pce and bridge seemed as though constructed atop ake of thunder.

    Ahead of Yun Xiao and his groupy the Hall of Soaring Thunder, a ce young in spirit, frequented by youthful Arbiters from various cities, geniuses of second generation Immortals whose parents held high ranking positions in the Celestial Court, none falling below Rank 6.

    The Sky Soaring City group was assigned lodgings called the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, situated on the fringes of the Hall of Soaring Thunder. The five prodigious Arbiters from Sky Soaring City epted this arrangement without question, aware of their own limits.

    After settling in the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, while Jiang Heqing and others chatted in the courtyard, Yun Xiao retired alone to a cultivation chamber.

    Blue Star and Red Moon had again <em>produced</em> some Tri Heaven Sariras.

    ¡°Just in time. I''ll have topare skills with all the genius Arbiters of the Thunder Department in the afternoon.¡±

    Yun Xiao sat cross-legged on the ground, channeling the energy of the vast Celestial Sourcecore of the Thunder Department''s sacrednd through the Primordial Void Technique, transforming it into primordial celestial power to gradually enhance his cultivation.

    In less than half an hour, Yun Xiao achieved a double breakthrough.¡°Establishment True Immortal Realm! The next step is manifesting my Genesis Spirit and reaching the Essence Manifestation Realm!¡± Yun Xiao gazed curiously at the tiny human form of his spirit before him.

    In the case of the Creator Immortal, he had no celestial ancestry. As for the mortal Yun Xiao, his ancestors were like dust in the mundane world, hardly the type to bless descendants. So, what kind of ancestral spirit would he manifest?

    "Just as long as I don¡¯t manifest as a turtle, I''m good." Yun Xiao chuckled to himself, standing up.

    With no clear idea on how to proceed with manifesting his spirit, he was about to seek advice from Liu Mumu. But just then, someone knocked at the door.

    Opening the thick, peeping-proof stone door of the cultivation chamber, Yun Xiao saw Jiang Heqing had changed into a white top and short emerald skirt, her long hair slightly curled, adorned with a jade hairpin. Her eyes were as clear as the sea, her lips a delicate red, like a charming celestial maiden descended from the heavens.

    "Are you busy?" Jiang Heqing nced at him, unable to hide the disdain in her eyes.

    "What do you want?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "We''re about to check out the Soaring Thunder Leap. Do you want to check it out with us?" Jiang Heqing asked, then quickly added, "Don''t get me wrong. I''m not inviting you because I want to. It''s just that there are too many nosy people here in the Hall of Soaring Thunder. I don''t want any gossip going around about us purposely excluding one of our team members.

    "Soaring Soaring Leap?" Yun Xiao remarked, clearly unaware of what this was. He indifferently said, "Anyway, who cares what others think? There''s no need to pretend to be close. Just go and enjoy yourselves. I''m not part of your circle. No need to force things and try to squeeze me in."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Well, at least you''re aware of it," Jiang Heqing scoffed, her disdain evident as she turned to leave. She muttered under her breath, "Here I was going to show this bumpkin what a Spirit Bungee Jump is like. Can¡¯t recognize good intent!"

    Curious about the concept, Yun Xiao casually asked, "What''s a Spirit Bungee Jump?"

    "It''s the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office¡¯s famed attraction Soaring Thunder Leap derived from the Thunder Immortal Formation, it uses the force of thunder to shoot riders upwards at high speed. During the process, one¡¯s spirit is pulled out of the body, experiencing a thrilling flight. It¡¯s a rite of passage for many here¡ªhelps in advancing the manifestation of the spirit. Many of the Thunder Department¡¯s elite have achieved the Essence Manifestation Realm through it¡ªI did too, years ago," Jiang Heqing exined, somewhat boastfully.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, his expression a mix of amusement and suspicion. "I''m stuck on that very step, and here you are, offering help as if to warm me in the snow. You''re not trying to woo me, are you?"

    "Ugh!" Jiang Heqing red at him, exasperated. "Shut it, if you don¡¯t want toe, don¡¯t!"

    "I''ll go," Yun Xiao dered decisively. "An opportunity given by a daughter of a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer shouldn¡¯t be wasted. Who knows? If I win her favor, wouldn¡¯t I be a sparrow turned phoenix?"

    "I find you slick and slippery,pletely at odds with your appearance," Jiang Heqing shot back contemptuously before turning and humming a tune, walking away.

    Yet, she didn''t stop Yun Xiao from following her.

    The two of them, one after the other, made their way to the courtyard of the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion.

    Looking up, Yun Xiao saw Jiang Haiyan and three other young masters had shed their Arbiter armor for exquisite celestial robes, which were not only elegant but likely offered even better protection.

    Clothes did maketh the man! In their new attire, they all appeared trendy and fashionable, exuding a strong presence, each with a distinct personality.

    Yun Xiao was still in his Arbiter armor. So, as he stepped into this circle, he immediately looked out of ce.

    Jiang Heqing noticed this too and frowned slightly at Yun Xiao. "Why are you still in armor? Don¡¯t you have anything else to wear?"

    "Is there a rule here that forbids wearing this armor?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Caught off guard by his question, Jiang Heqing fell silent.

    In the Thunder Department, the Arbiter armor was considered the lowest <em>working</em> attire, signifying equality. But here everyone emphasized pedigree and taste. Naturally, they preferred not to wear it, especially now, as they were gearing up for leisure.

    "Qingqing, don''t make it hard on him," Jiang Haiyan said softly.

    "It''s not that, it''s just so..." Jiang Heqing bit her lip, almost adding <em>tacky</em> at the end but held her tongue.

    After all, Governor Jiang had instructed them to get closer to Yun Xiao and unearth his secrets!

    "That said, Lu Yao''s naturally handsome face perfectlyplements the Arbiter armor. I''d even say he outshines us all," Jiang Haiyan said, shaking her head with a wry smile.

    "..." Jiang Heqing looked Yun Xiao up and down and found herself unable to refute the im. Her prejudice aside, this young man did indeed possess an appearance that was beyond reproach

    However, Jiang Haiyan''s remark had clearly made the other three young Arbiter Commanders with them somewhat ufortable.

    "Do you know thesemanders, Lu Yao?" Jiang Haiyan asked.

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "Please, Commander Jiang, introduce them to me."

    One of themanders in blue responded coolly, "Lu Yao, you certainly carry yourself with an air. It¡¯s been only ten years, and I remember you, yet you have forgotten me."

    "..." Yun Xiao, caught off guard, neither tensed nor replied.

    "This is Zhao Danming, son of the official who oversees trade in Sky Soaring City," Jiang Haiyan introduced. Like Lu Changfeng, Zhao Danming¡¯s father was a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer in charge ofmerce!

    After speaking, Jiang Haiyan pointed to a younger man dressed in brocaded garments and continued, "This young man is Chen Yu, son of the official responsible for mining operations beneath Sky Soaring City."

    Known as a vein official, this was a position that controlled mining, almost the most lucrative of roles, making his family among the wealthiest.

    Yun Xiao could tell, both Zhao Danming and Chen Yu appeared to harbor intentions towards Jiang Heqing. So, their animosity towards Yun Xiao was the most apparent, albeit subtle.

    There was another man, roughly the age of Jiang Haiyan but slightly older, dressed in ck and white brocade, solemn and reserved.

    "This is Dongfang Yong, son of Secretary Dongfang Sheng," Jiang Haiyan exined. The secretary managed all administrative affairs, serving as the deputy to the governor, and was truly the second-inmand.

    This time, the Dongfang Sheng did not partake in thepetition for governor because he was Jiang Taiping''s trusted confidant. He was set to be promoted to Rank 5 and follow Jiang Taiping to the Thunder Department, reaching into the heart of its power.

    Dongfang Sheng had been on The Serenity just earlier.

    His son, Dongfang Yong, was also highly revered in Sky Soaring City and was often paired with Jiang Haiyan as a perfect match, seen by many as destined for each other.

    After Jiang Haiyan finished introducing them, Yun Xiao nonchntly greeted the threemanders, blurring over the fact that he didn''t know them.

    "There are only two hours left, let''s hurry," Dongfang Yong said, ncing at Jiang Haiyan.

    "Right," Jiang Haiyan responded, then turned to Yun Xiao. "Do you need to report this to Sister Mumu?"

    "No need," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Oh?" Jiang Haiyan''s deep blue eyes flickered briefly, but she said no more.

    The group of six young Arbiters then left the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion. They clustered together, discussing nothing but the scenic beauties of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    Yun Xiao, however, was only interested in manifesting his spirit. A little boredom was a small price to pay for that.

    After leaving the Hall of Soaring Thunder, the group walked along the streets of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    Looking up, Yun Xiao could see ahead a massive column of lightning descending from the celestial storm above, part of the Thunder Immortal Formation. This column, wrapped with tens of thousands of dragon-shaped bolts of lightning, emitted an earth-shaking roar.

    Faintly visible were streaks of light shooting rapidly from the ground up to the formation, and then plummeting down again. During this process, one could even hear the exhrating cries of the spirits!

    "That must be the Soaring Thunder Leap," Yun Xiao observed, his gaze fixed on the spectacle.

    "It feels like a mortal leaping off a cliff, plunging downward just before crashing to the ground and then being yanked back up again."

    This thrilling activity was indeed a first for him. In contrast, Jiang Haiyan and the others, who had beening to the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office since childhood, must have tried it many times.

    "Damn! The line is so long, can we even get a turn in two hours?" Jiang Heqing eximed ahead.

    "With the selection for the Immortal Tournament ongoing, it''s crowded indeed," Chen Yumented.

    "Don''t worry, Qingqing, I''ll see if we can cut in," Zhao Danming offered.

    "Forget it, just queue up honestly. Others have connections no worse than ours," Dongfang Yong stated tly.

    "We''ll queue for now; if we run out of time, we''ll leave," Jiang Haiyan decided.

    And so, they joined the long queue beneath that giant column of lightning...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 549: A Face Appears Over the Sky of the Thunder Department!

    Chapter 549: A Face Appears Over the Sky of the Thunder Department!

    Ahead, the procession was filled with the young and passionate children of high ranking Immortals. Not a single one wore the in armor of an Arbiter; their adornments werevish, and even those who feigned modesty betrayed their opulence upon closer inspection, their belongings rmingly expensive.

    Yun Xiao followed silently behind Jiang Heqing, waiting.

    "By the way," Zhao Danming suddenly turned, raising an eyebrow at Yun Xiao, "Lu Yao, did you bring money?"

    "Money?" Yun Xiao paused. "It costs money to ride on the Sky Thunder Leap?"

    Zhao Danming couldn''t help butugh, shaking his head silently.

    "Commander Jiang, how much for one jump?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not much, just 1,000 True Immortal Jades," Jiang Heqing casually replied.

    "Good heavens, one jump costs me ten years of my yearly stipend," Yun Xiao remarked, a hint of awe in his tone.

    It was merely an observation. Born to high-ranking parents, unlikemon Arbiters like Lu An, they were not of the same world.Hearing him, Zhao Danming¡¯s face soured. "You were born low, ept your fate. Keep it to yourself, no need to stir trouble. If you can''t afford the 1,000 True Immortal Jades, just admit it. No shame in that."

    "Enough," Jiang Haiyan interjected softly, turning back, "Lu Yao is here to represent the glory of Sky Soaring City in the selections. I''ll cover his expenses."

    "..." Zhao Danming was taken aback.

    Yun Xiao gratefully said, "Thank you, Commander Jiang, for your generosity."

    "You ept a woman''s money so easily..." Zhao Danming¡¯s expression chilled.

    "You look down on women?" Yun Xiao cut him off.

    "Don''t spout nonsense!" Zhao Danming red up but was restrained by Dongfang Yong from behind, who shook his head at him.

    A rift seemed to form.

    Zhao Danming shot Yun Xiao a cold nce and turned back to the line.

    Dongfang Yong looked at Jiang Haiyan with a strange expression but said nothing.

    "Hey, my sister is paying for you and you ept just like that? Doesn¡¯t it seem like youck spine?" Jiang Heqing whispered to Yun Xiao.

    "It¡¯s okay. When ites to fighting, I have all the spine I need," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Whatever!" Jiang Heqing red at him and then sighed at the sight of the long queue ahead. "So long, painfully long!"

    ¡­¡­?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, a discreet inn for the wayfarers of the heavenly path, a middle-aged man in a robe checked in quietly, slipping into his room without a stir.

    He stood by the window, gazing out into the distance where, about 100 miles away, a pir of thunder stretched skyward.

    "They move fast, already here," Lord Lu muttered with a chilling smirk.

    As he spoke, his eyes turned icy, his finger lifted slightly, summoning a green glimmer in his hand¡ªa Sword Soul that could copse the very fabric of space!

    With a breath, Lord Lu exhaled, his breath forming a tortoise-shaped spirit that merged into the green light.

    "Go!" With a flick of his wrist, the green light slipped silently out the window, disappearing into the bustling life of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    "A spirit-controlled Flying Sword that kills from a hundred miles away¡ªnow that''s a true Sword Cultivator!" Lord Lu leaned on the railing, eyes closed, his spirit wandering between heaven and earth, a slight smirk on his lips.

    "In the Celestial Court, you think talent alone can raise you high? Sorry, but cross the wrong Immortal, and you won¡¯t make a step, let alone shine!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After about an hour and a half in line, it was nearly the turn of Yun Xiao and his group.

    Jiang Heqing¡¯s patience was nearly spent, twisting about in front of Yun Xiao, pouting and sticking out her tongue in a disy of adorable charm.

    Yun Xiao stood upright beside her like a guardian.

    "If I can manage to manifest my spirit through this Soaring Thunder Leap and achieve a decent showing in the selection this afternoon, my position should be secure," Yun Xiao thought.

    He knew that the Jiang sisters approached him with an agenda. And he, too, had approached them, for their father possessed the Boundary Defining Divine Needle! It was a match made on convenience.

    "Everything''s going smoothly... The Boundary Defining Divine Needle might just be within reach." Yun Xiao''s gaze intensified with determination.

    For the sake of countless lives across myriad worlds, there was no harm in ying along!

    As Yun Xiao observed Jiang Heqing, lively and teasing, disying her youthful zest, his eyes grew even more fervent.

    Everything was going too smoothly! For some reason, the smoother things went, the greater the sense of impending crisis he felt.

    "This Heavenly Pce is more brutal than I imagined." The thought sprang into Yun Xiao''s mind, and suddenly, it was as if he were trapped in an ice cave, his heart frozen solid!

    "Danger!" Blue Star and Red Moon were startled.

    In an instant, they emerged from Yun Xiao''s embrace, transforming into an upright coffin that swallowed him whole!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The next moment, Yun Xiao felt himself being flung away!

    "A Flying Sword assassination from afar!"

    Only a top-tier Sword Immortal could strike with such precision!

    The sword had hit Red Moon''s coffin form, which grimaced and howled in pain.

    <em>CRASH! </em>Yun Xiao collided against the nearby wall.

    The coffin vanished as quickly as it had appeared, returning to his embrace!

    Yun Xiao had narrowly escaped death, his forehead slick with sweat.

    "This is the path of Immortals! Those with power killed on a whim. There was no fooling around." His heart trembled, but he slowly rose to his feet.

    Blue Star and Red Moon retreated, indicating that the assassin''s Flying Sword had failed and fled.

    In such a public setting, the attacker had only one chance to strike!

    "Thank goodness I was prepared!" At times like this, Yun Xiao could forgive Blue Star and Red Moon for skimming off the True Immortal Jades for their own use¡ªthey had their roles.

    They were a team! Yun Xiao earned the money, and they converted it into power, ensuring his safety.

    "Who?" Blue Star asked irritably.

    "Lord Lu," Yun Xiao replied without hesitation, "Liu Zongyu must have gone to him by now."

    "Brutal, daring to kill you here in the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office," Blue Star clicked his tongue.

    When Yun Xiaomitted murder, he also needed a proxy.

    The scene had unfolded so suddenly, shocking the surrounding queue of young onlookers. By the time they grasped what had happened, the green light had already fled.

    "What''s the situation?"

    "A powerful assassin targeted this handsome man."

    "Who is he?"

    "Did a ck shield appear around him just now?"

    "Wow, he must be the scion of a great figure!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "The assassin must be out of their mind."

    Seeing Yun Xiao alive, many revered him, treating him as if he were the son of a high ranking Immortal.

    Such an assassination would have likely killed a <em>regr</em> prodigy.

    "Lu Yao?" Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing hurried forward.

    "It''s nothing, I can''t be killed that easily." Yun Xiao''s gaze was icy as he nced into the distance.

    "Who would do such a thing?" Jiang Heqing bit her lip.

    "Your father would probably know," Yun Xiao said.

    "Humph! Someone dares to attack a young talent from Sky Soaring City during the Immortal Tournament selection in public. They''re challenging our city. Don''t worry, I''ll tell my father about this, and he will definitely root out the assassin," Jiang Heqing said indignantly.

    Zhao Danming muttered under his breath, "How did they not kill him? Who is so ipetent that they can''t even take down a low life?"

    As more and more people took interest, Yun Xiao nced ahead and said, "It''s finally our turn. Let''s make use of the time."

    "Right," Jiang Heqing said.

    "Let''s ride the Soaring Thunder Leap." Jiang Haiyan nodded.

    It was their turn now, and if they didn''t go up, the people behind them would.

    "Off we go!" Jiang Heqing instantly forgot about the assassination, thrilled with excitement.

    "There are six Thunder Ascension Fields open, perfect for the six of you," the elderly organizer said, giving Yun Xiao a knowing smile, "These days, there are too many reckless people who don''t know whether they''re alive or dead. Rest assured, the assassin left traces and will be hunted down by the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office."

    Clearly, even the old man regarded Yun Xiao as a person of importance.

    "Thank you." And seeing that Jiang Haiyan personally handed over the 1,000 True Immortal Jades for Yun Xiao, which prompted the old man to treat the sisters almost like Yun Xiao¡¯s attendants.

    "This way, please." The elder led Yun Xiao to thergest of the seats, advising, "Circte your celestial power, stabilize your form. Once the gravitational wave hits, it will rapidly pull your spirit out of your body towards the Thunder Immortal Formation above. Stay steady throughout the process."

    "Thank you, senior." Yun Xiao nodded.

    The so-called Thunder Ascension Fields were but small-scale lightning arrays.

    Yun Xiao stood upon one, nked by Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing. He could already feel the pulling force of the Thunder Immortal Array descending upon him,pelling him to take a deep breath.

    "Get ready, we''re about to take off!" Jiang Heqing eximed, her face alight with excitement.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see the sky transformed into a tempestuous sea of thunder. As if drawn by some unseen force, the Thunder Immortal Array seemed to extend a colossal arm of lightning that suddenly smashed down onto the Thunder Ascension Field, grasping at Yun Xiao''s spirit.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The thrilling moment arrived!

    Yun Xiao felt as if his mind had exploded. His entire will was concentrated in his spirit, which was pulled by the devouring force of the lightning, instantly erupting out of his body, soaring into the clouds, and hurtling toward the ocean of thunder at a terrifying speed.

    "Aaaaah!"

    Beside him, he could faintly hear Jiang Heqing''s screams¡ªmixed with fear and excitement, she was thoroughly exhrated.

    Yun Xiao, caught between chaos and astonishment, felt his spirit suddenly break through a dimension. In that moment, he saw the Thunder Immortal Array as if it were an enormous vortex magnifier!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>While the spirits of the other riders were falling, his spirit smashed into the Thunder Immortal Array!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>At that moment, the sea of thunder erupted in an earth-shattering tremor, billions of bolts of lightning began to twist and shake as if the sea itself was boiling!

    Such colossalmotion shook all the Immortals of the sacrednd of the Thunder Department!

    Everyone looked up, their faces filled with awe, witnessing the ancient tumult within the sea of thunder!

    Between the thunderbolts racing and the serpents of electricity surging, the sea of lightning that covered the entirend of the Thunder Department took on a face that blotted out the sky!

    The face in the thunder, vivid as life itself, was like a real person peering out from the storm, gazing upon the vast expanse of the Thunder Department!

    And this face, both youthful and handsome, was unmistakable...

 Chapter 550: Immemorial Thunder Seed!

    Chapter 550: Immemorial Thunder Seed!

    At that hour within the stormden walls of the city, a midday feast was being hosted in a grand hall called the Summer Thunder Duke Pce.

    Mists of immortality swirled about the hall, with lightning dancing along the walls. Rows of celestial tables stretched on either side,den with the ethereal fruits of the Great Dao Celestial Realm¡ªpeaches of immortality and ginseng fruit abounded. Moreover, there was an array of divinely cooked meats of fantastical beasts, rarities that ordinary Immortals might never encounter in a lifetime.

    Immortal maidens, garbed in gossamer and splendid attire, flitted beside the tables, their hands holding pitchers aglow with luminescent wine, bowing asionally to pour drinks, their forms curving gracefully.

    Among them, a host of celestial dancers yed divine melodies and danced with light steps around the tables.

    The masters and guests of the Immortal path within the hall were savoring delicacies and toasting withughter, their conversations spanning ancient lore and contemporary jokes¡ªa scene of harmony, elegance, and ethereality, mirroring the Celestial Court as imagined by themon folk.

    This banquet was in honor of Governor Jiang, to cleanse him of the dust from his travels. So, Jiang Taiping sat at the ce of honor, his face bright with a genial smile, responding warmly to all congrattions.

    Slightly below him, a middle-aged man in a ck and white robe sat with stiff propriety, perhaps feeling out of his element in such elevatedpany for the first time.

    He was Dongfang Sheng, the secretary of Sky Soaring City.

    ¡°Dongfang,e with me to toast General Cao,¡± Jiang Taiping said, taking it upon himself to introduce him to a true high official of the Thunder Department.That official was the master of the Summer Thunder Duke Pce!

    A brawny, bare-chested man sat enthroned, his figure as imposing as a bear¡¯s, sitting nearly four feet high, and likely towering to eight when standing.

    His head and body were adorned with violet thunder patterns, his eyes sparking violet lightning. His nose was proud, his lips full, his eyebrows sharply arched in a manner thatmanded respect without anger.

    His ears wererge and drooping, each wrapped by a violet lightning serpent. They were real serpents. Though it was unclear whether these serpents were demons or celestial beasts, they raised their heads high, their tongues flicking amidst entwined lightning.

    It was General Cao¡¯s overwhelming presence that made Dongfang Sheng, the second-inmand of Sky Soaring City, feel an immense pressure.

    "Dongfang Sheng, no need to be tense," General Cao''s voice boomed like thunder. Speaking with only a slight movement of his lips, his face bore a deep smile with a terrifyingly restrained menace.

    "Indeed, after this drink, we''ll all belong to General Cao''s camp." Jiang Taipingughed.

    Dongfang Sheng, who had mixed in these circles for half his life, was too nervous to speak. He could only offer a sheepish smile, raising his ss high before downing the wine.

    After finishing, he managed to say, "From now on, at General Cao''smand, I would march through fire and water without hesitation."

    General Cao gave a slight smile and shook his head. "Nonsense, everyone knows that following me leads to prosperity, not hardship."

    "Exactly!"

    Laughter filled the room, the scene in perfect harmony.

    Just then, a thunderous roar came from outside.

    "The Thunder Immortal Formation is changing!"

    General Cao''s face turned to confusion. He stood up abruptly, and with a buzz, he strode out of the Summer Thunder Duke Pce.

    "What''s the situation?"

    The guests, not daring to dy, quickly followed him outside.

    Upon exiting, the officials looked up to see the Thunder Immortal Formation above, swirling with thousands of storms, causing earthquakes in this sacrednd of the Thunder Department. Among the billions of lightning serpents, a young, majestic face of thunder formed in the sky!

    Even Jiang Taiping and Dongfang Sheng, worldly as they were, found the spectacle breathtaking.

    Under this sky-obscuring visage of thunder, even they, who wielded great power within the Celestial Court, felt insignificant for a moment.

    "Divine Spirit Controlling Thunder!" General Cao suddenly shouted.

    All eyes turned to him as he stared, eyes wide, at the face above. He urgentlymanded, "Someone, draw that face! It must be precise!"

    "That face?" Jiang Taiping stared, initially overwhelmed with shock. Yet, as he continued to look, confusion set in. He turned to Dongfang Sheng and asked, "Doesn''t this face look familiar?"

    "It''s a young man, indeed seems familiar..."

    Just as Dongfang Sheng spoke, his eyes nearly popped out of his head. He eximed in shock, "Lu..."

    "Shush!" Jiang Taiping signaled him to be quiet, adjusting his demeanor with a puzzled smile, and asked the majestic man before them, "General Cao, what exactly is going on here?"

    General Cao turned back, his eyes storming with thunder, and exined, "Only a divine spirit possessing the Immemorial Thunder Seed, a divine talent, can enter the core of the Thunder Immortal Formation under certain conditions, resonate with the formation, and magnify their divine spirit''s appearance!"

    "Immemorial Thunder Seed?"

    Some had heard of it, while others were utterly baffled.

    Jiang Taiping, for one, had never heard of it but knew that any divine talent so highly regarded by General Cao must be of significant importance.

    For a moment, his emotions were a curious mix of confusion and amazement.

    "The portrait is ready, General!" In no time at all, his subordinates presented him with dozens of scrolls depicting that youthful face in the sky, vivid and lifelike. With the thunderous serpents removed, Jiang Taiping recognized the face even more clearly...

    "Immediately send word throughout the Thunder Department to find this person, especially near the Nine Thunder Columns!" General Caomanded loudly.

    "There''s no need!" Jiang Taiping suddenly stood, his eyes deep as he smiled at General Cao.

    "No need?" General Cao''s lips curled in a smirk. "Do you know this person?"

    "General Cao, not only do I know him, but I was the one who brought him to the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office," Jiang Taiping replied, his voice trailing off into augh. "What a coincidence indeed."

    "Oh? So, it''s a genius cultivated by Old Jiang himself?"

    "Quick, quick! Take us to see this prodigy."

    His friends'' eyes gleamed with excitement. If this young talent caught General Cao''s eye, Old Jiang''s status would surely rise along with the neer.

    "Lead the way! I shall go to meet him myself," General Cao dered with a heartyugh.

    "Please, General Cao," Jiang Taiping bowed, grinning. Everyone said he had groomed this genius, and he simply went along with the current.

    "Governor." Dongfang Sheng approached him and whispered, "Who would have thought? Truly brilliant."

    "That¡¯s why I say, my reasoning isn¡¯t wrong. This kid is tricky; we mustn¡¯t treat him recklessly. Just a little patience, and see, he¡¯s not to be trifled with," Jiang Taiping said earnestly.

    "I''m impressed!" Before, Dongfang Sheng had considered dissecting the boy to see what made him tick. Now, he wouldn''t dare. He eximed, "Next, we¡¯ll <em>offer up</em> this kid to General Cao. Our entry into the Thunder Department is secured."

    "Not just secured, but with General Cao¡¯s backing, we¡¯re set to soar," Jiang Taiping chuckled.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "What... in... the... world... is... this... damn?" Yun Xiao had just endured a soul-stretching ordeal, his physical body stationary while his spirit soared and dove. He never imagined that after crashing into the Thunder Immortal Formation and his mind buzzing in disarray, he''d open his eyes to such a scene¡ª

    There it was, the vast expanse of the Thunder Department''s sacrednd, looking like a scallion pancake of wandering lightning, stered right before his eyes!

    Indeed, his face was as vast as the entire Thunder Department itself!

    At that moment, Yun Xiao¡¯s mind was in a peculiar state.

    ¡°Am I using the <em>eyes</em> of the Thunder Immortal Formation to see the world?¡±

    Had it not been for thendmass of the Thunder Department appearing like a mask obstructing his view, he suspected he might have diminished the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm to a mere speck!

    Thunderous rumblings followed as he twisted the colossal face of thunder, looking left and right across this sacrednd.

    Nearly everyone had rushed outside their buildings, staring up in disbelief at the enormous face above, their cries echoing through the air. The whole of the Thunder Department was in uproar!

    A cacophony of shouts and screams filled Yun Xiao''s spirit, causing him a splitting headache.

    The problem was, he was in his spirit form; Blue Star and Red Moon remained with his physical body, leaving him without a way to ask what exactly had happened to him!

    No choice left, he relied solely on his willpower to take control and figure out what was going on.

    "First, looking around with this face seems fine. So, what next?" Yun Xiao attempted to take a deep breath, and instantly, the millions of lightning serpents racing across his face sped up a hundredfold. The collision sparked dazzling arcs of electricity and emitted sharp sounds of thunderous explosions!

    That breath he took seemed to pull a lightning serpent into his <em>mouth</em>, causing him intense difort¡ªas if it would shock him if he didn¡¯t expel it!

    Where to spit it out?

    As this thought crossed Yun Xiao¡¯s mind, his gigantic thunderous eyes automatically scanned the sacrednd. Directed by his will, countless electric serpents zipped across the streets!

    Almost instantly, through the myriad serpents, Yun Xiao pinpointed one man¡ªa man dressed quite unassumingly.

    Standing at the corner of a marketce, he looked up in utter disbelief at the thunderous face in the sky. His face trembled visibly, wiping his eyes repeatedly, as if his very soul was shattering.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Lord Lu?" At the sight of him, Yun Xiao bristled with anger!

    Just 15 minutes earlier, this very man had pursued him to the Thunder Department with deadly intent!

    ¡°A grudge that warrants no shared sky!¡± Without a second thought, rage surged through Yun Xiao. Instinctively, he opened his mouth and spat in Lord Lu¡¯s direction.

    Before spitting, his mind was a blur, not fully aware of what might happen.

    After all, everything was beyond belief!

    But then, the sacrednd of the Thunder Department trembled again!

    Everyone saw the thunderous face expel a blinding arc of electricity, which shot from the sky directly onto the crown of Lord Lu¡¯s head!

    ¡°Ah¡­?¡± Lord Lu¡¯s mind went nk.

    <em>ZAP! </em>The moment his body came in contact with the electric arc, it vaporized instantly, dispersing with a whoosh.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 551: Fool Asking Himself Why Hes a Fool

    Chapter 551: Fool Asking Himself Why He''s a Fool

    This meant Lord Lu was dead. Perhaps it was the swiftest death in the world, and Lord Lu was so baffled by it, everything vanished in an instant. He didn''t even know he was already dead. Just like that, he vanished from this world.

    "Divine punishment! Divine punishment!" Many around him witnessed this scene, so frightened they were beside themselves, some even kneeling to the heavens.

    The voice of divine punishment swept across the Thunder Department, bringing even greater astonishment!

    Not only was Lord Lu stunned, Yun Xiao was bewildered as well.

    "Am I dreaming? Did I just use the power of the Thunder Immortal Formation to obliterate Lord Lu?"

    The sensation was like tangling with a beauty in a dream, only to awaken and find her still in your bed.

    "It can''t be... it can''t be..." Yun Xiao believed his spirit must have been bewitched somehow.

    "How could my spirit control such a supreme weapon? This is a formation meant to execute thews of the heavens," Yun Xiao thought to himself.

    Just then, a voice resonated in his mind."Hey, stop meddling with the power of this formation, withdraw from its core ande back!"

    It was Blue Star''s voice. Somehow, he had managed to transmit these words right to Yun Xiao''s spirit.

    "What in the world?" Yun Xiao muttered.

    "Close your eyes, focus your mind, and return your spirit!" Blue Star urged urgently.

    "Alright then!"

    In the midst of confusion, Yun Xiao followed Blue Star''s instructions.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    His spirit naturally belonged to his body, and with his mind calmed, the return was straightforward.

    He steadied his heart, sinking slowly into stillness, and finally felt his spirit plummet!

    With a hum, his spirit finally returned to his Dantian.

    "The face is gone!"

    "The Thunder Immortal Formation is restored!"

    Only then did such exmations ring out around him.

    Yun Xiao, having lived through this dream-like experience, felt his senses return to his body, and the world became real again.

    "Bluey, what happened?" Yun Xiao asked, still somewhat dazed.

    "During the manifestation of your spirit, it was drawn into the heart of the Thunder Immortal Formation, resonating your spirit across the entire formation. Your will momentarily surpassed the core of the formation and struck down Lord Lu!" Blue Star exined with a wry smile.

    "Can this truly be?" Yun Xiao might still think himself dreaming if they hadn''t spoken up.

    "Poor Lord Lu, his demise was so tragic. Annihted by divine punishment, not even a wash could cleanse it," Blue Star joked.

    "This..." Yun Xiao lifted his head, gazing at the savage sea of lightning with a tinge of regret. "Can I enter the core of the formation like before? That feeling was exhrating."

    "You can. Your Creator Immortal spirit has left its mark on the core. From now on, you can join the Nine Heavens Thunder Duke in controlling the Thunder Immortal Formation to strike down others," Blue Star exined.

    "Doesn''t that mean I''ve ascended to the heavens in one step? Within the Thunder Department, I could obliterate anyone I choose," Yun Xiao eximed in astonishment.

    "That''s true, but you''ve just revealed yourself. It won''t be long before people starting after you. Your first attack might not lead others to conclude it was your will that caused all this, but if you kill a few more, your involvement will be obvious," Blue Star spoke with solemn gravity.

    Yun Xiao gradually calmed down, quickly discerning the pros and cons.

    Yes, indeed, he could strike down others at will!

    But the problem was, this device was an important artifact of the Celestial Court. A young man like him, bypassing the permissions of the Celestial Court to manipte it, was essentially disregarding the celestialws and authority.

    How could those in power tolerate such a challenger?

    It was far too dangerous!

    Even an idiot could tell that this matter must not be exposed, unless it was absolutely necessary at a critical moment.

    "Understood, I''ll keep it as a trump card." Yun Xiao breathed deeply, his mood easing.

    He suddenly remembered a detail and quickly added, "Wait, my spirit looks just like I did when I was a mortal. Even if I show myself, no one would recognize me."

    "And I thought I was dumb! The face you showed is the one you have now, not your old one." Red Moonughed heartily.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Because you just manifested," Blue Star said disdainfully.

    "Manifested?"

    A sudden shock went through Yun Xiao. He summoned his spirit in front of him. Indeed, even if invisible to others, he himself could see this misty little figure was the young Emperor of Cloud Nation. It was himself before he turned sixteen!

    "Manifestation..."

    As Yun Xiao''s thoughts stirred, the little spirit in front of him coalesced from the clouds, slowly taking on a more tangible form. During this process, his body and face transformed.

    In the end, the little spirit became the Creator Immortal.

    "Damn!" Yun Xiao was still seated within the Thunder Ascension Field and was so startled that he scooted back a few steps.

    "Why does my spirit appear as the Creator Immortal!" Yun Xiao looked incredulously at Blue Star and Red Moon.

    Blue Star rolled his eyes and said to Red Moon, "Listen to this fool asking why he''s a fool."

    "Haha!" Red Moon burst into heartyughter.

    With a meaningful nce at Yun Xiao, Blue Star said somberly, "You thought you were merely a soul reborn in another body, not the Creator Immortal. Now, take a good look at the face of your manifested spirit. Do you know who you are now?"

    "..." This statement struck Yun Xiao''s heart with immense force.

    Who was he, truly? Before today, Yun Xiao had leaned towards believing he was just a lucky soul reborn. But at this moment, he was bewildered. What was the truth? He couldn''t decide. Yet, the face of his manifested spirit constantly reminded him.

    "Never mind, fretting over this is pointless." Yun Xiao retracted his spirit and asked, "What use is this manifestation of my spirit?"

    "Why don''t you reflect on that?"

    Yun Xiao pondered, "Controlling the Thunder Immortal Formation was a fluke, not the primary function of this manifestation. Its main function lies at the spiritual level."

    "That''s about what I expected. The spirit is essentially a vessel for spiritual talent," Blue Star exined.

    "Alright then!" Yun Xiao finally sorted through these revtions.

    To summarize¡­ Firstly, the sessful manifestation of his spirit meant he could now enter the Essence Manifestation Realm. Secondly, he could now control a supreme celestial weapon. All of this was good news!

    And so, as Yun Xiao cast aside those useless thoughts, his mood greatly lightened.

    "However, the face of my manifested spirit is now my own face, so..." Yun Xiao had already heard themotion outside.

    He looked outside and saw Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing, their wide eyes fixed on him, full of confusion.

    "Don''t overthink it; it has nothing to do with him." Zhao Danming crossed his arms and after speaking, he turned to Yun Xiao. "Lu Yao, stop standing there dumbfounded; hurry back and join the group!"

    "Sister!" Jiang Heqing gripped Jiang Haiyan''s arm.

    "It should be... unrted, right? After all, how could it be?" Jiang Haiyan managed a strained smile, seemingly suppressing the shock.

    "Alright then." Since everyone said so, Jiang Heqing had no choice but to ept this exnation.

    At this point, Yun Xiao had returned to their side.

    "Hey, how does flying through the thunder feel?" Jiang Heqing whispered.

    "It was quite the adrenaline rush," Yun Xiao replied.

    "With a cost of 1,000 True Immortal Jades, how could it not be?" Jiang Heqing pouted and then blinked, "By the way, did you feel anything unusual?"

    "Unusual? Hmm. I''d say it was thrilling, but I didn''t feel anything strange." Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Fine then!" Jiang Heqing lost interestpletely, waved her hand dismissively, "Not even a thank you, what a waste of money."

    Yun Xiao actually wanted to thank her; without the sisters, he probably wouldn''t have experienced the thrill of the Soaring Thunder Leap so soon. After all, it was just an amusement.

    And so, they seemed to forget the incident as they hurried toward the direction of the Hall of Soaring Thunder.

    Suddenly, lightning shed ahead!

    "It''s the Summer Thunder Duke, General Cao!"

    The crowd gasped and bowed, making way.

    "Quick, pay respects." Dongfang Yong, knowing whom his father sought to please, quickly reacted.

    Everyone hurriedly stepped aside, stealing nces upward! They saw arge group of Immortal officials descending, led by the bald thunder giant at the forefront!

    General Cao''s presence was formidable; his mere appearance froze everyone in the vicinity with fear and awe.

    When Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing saw their father following behind General Cao, they breathed a sigh of relief.

    "What are father and General Cao doing here?" Jiang Heqing wondered.

    Then, to their astonishment, the line of high-ranking Immortals looked excited as they approached them.

    "What''s going on?" Dongfang Yong, Zhao Danming, and Chen Yu grew anxious.

    They were about to kneel when General Cao stepped past them and stopped in front of Yun Xiao! Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, he smiled broadly and gently asked, "Lu Yao, was it your spirit thatmanded the thunder and shook the heavens?"

 Chapter 552: A Fathers Blessing!

    Chapter 552: A Father''s Blessing!

    Yun Xiao surveyed the assembly before him, sensing that Governor Jiang must have ryed information about him to the Summer Thunder Duke who now stood before him.

    At that moment, the gathered crowd''s eyes were all fixed intently on Yun Xiao.

    "I''ve got it now. The face that appeared in the Thunder Immortal Formation. It looked identical to him!" A random onlooker''s deration sent a ripple through the crowd.

    Everyone''s gaze upon Yun Xiao was filled with stark amazement.

    "Was it this young man who triggered the transformation in the Thunder Immortal Formation?"

    "General Cao came personally to fetch him; could there still be any doubt?"

    The eyes of the Summer Thunder Duke zed with fervor. Known for his stern demeanor, his face now broke into a splendid smile, a clear testament to his joyous mood.

    "What is the name of this young man?"

    "It seems his name is Lu Yao!"Swiftly, the name Lu Yao spread like wildfire throughout the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    "What''s going on, sister?" Jiang Heqing was once again plunged into confusion, her pretty face clouded with bewilderment.

    Jiang Haiyan''s beautiful eyes trembled as she gazed at Yun Xiao, biting her lip. "Unless I''m mistaken, he is poised to rise swiftly."

    After uttering these words, she stealthily nced over at General Cao and added, "Our father yed a part in rmending him. You can tell he''s pleased, which is fortunate for our family."

    "That''s wonderful, Lu Yao truly is our lucky star!" Jiang Heqing couldn''t help but exim with joy, her previous irritation at Yun Xiao having been thoroughly forgotten.

    Now, as she looked at Yun Xiao, she found him entirely agreeable.

    "He''s caught General Cao''s eye with his talents, and he''s handsome to boot. Despite his humble origins, he''s a man of quality with a promising future..." Jiang Haiyan spoke softly, sneaking a nce at her charming younger sister, "Why not make the y real and win him over to be your ideal husband?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "No, no¡­" Jiang Heqing blushed at the suggestion, replying, "Sister, you aren''t married yet. How could I go first? If you fancy him, he''s your age, perfectly suitable."

    Jiang Haiyan paused for a moment, looking back at Yun Xiao with a flicker of genuine interest in her eyes.

    However, the sisters failed to notice that Dongfang Yong, Zhao Danming, and Chen Yu were standing just behind them, overhearing every whisper of their private sisterly chat.

    From their birth, they had vied for the favor of these two beauties, and now, to have amoner unexpectedly step ahead was intolerable. The scene of the two sisters acting lovestruck was like a dagger to their hearts.

    "Lu Yao..." Zhao Danming''s eyes darkened with bitterness, his fists clenched tightly beneath his sleeves, and his eyes reddened with emotion.

    Dongfang Yong excelled at biding his time, his emotions never surfacing, and now he managed to suppress the anger burning within him.

    Chen Yu, too, remained calm, though ayer of unmistakable frost coated his face. Both were fixated on Yun Xiao.

    "Lu Yao, this is General Cao of the Thunder Department, a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court,manding the divine soldiers of our sector," Governor Jiang hastened forward, smiling as he introduced them to Yun Xiao, then added, "Why do you look so bewildered? General Cao is asking you a question. Was it your spirit that sensed andmanded the thunder just now?"

    Yun Xiao wasn''t dazed; his mind was rapidly assessing various matters.

    After Governor Jiang''s inquiry, he replied in a somewhat bewildered and nervous manner, "I am but a humble Immortal and do not fully grasp what sensing andmanding thunder entails. I was simply riding the Soaring Thunder Leap, and it seemed my spirit was thrust into the Thunder Immortal Formation."

    "The Soaring Thunder Leap? Indeed!" General Cao''s interest deepened upon hearing these words. His appreciative look made it clear he had settled some thoughts in his mind.

    He nced back towards the core of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, then swept his gaze around the surroundings.

    "Lu Yao!" General Cao''s lips curled slightly as he extended arge hand, pping Yun Xiao on the shoulder with a significant air. "You have sensed andmanded thunder, showing potential as a pir of the Celestial Court. Given time, you will surely be a great general of the Thunder Department!"

    "General Cao, is it truly so?" Yun Xiao asked somewhat <em>nervously</em>, his greenness apparent.

    "If I say it before all, it is indeed true," General Cao replied with a heartyugh.

    "Haha!" Behind him, the other high-ranking Immortals chuckled at Yun Xiao''s inexperienced demeanor.

    His naivety was not a w; it indicated his malleability and high talentbined with obedience¡ªa top-tier prospect.

    These officials all knew General Cao was about to im the young man for himself.

    Indeed, with a solemn and caring look, General Cao turned to Yun Xiao and asked, "I hear from Jiang Taiping that youe from a family of martyrs, with generations of Rank 9 Arbiters, and even your father bravely sacrificed himself for the Celestial Court?"

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "A fine family, and you are a good child. So..." General Cao''s eyes thundered with sincerity, his voice resonant as he addressed Yun Xiao before everyone, "I am renowned for cherishing talent, having served the Celestial Court''s military for hundreds of years with no one to pass on my teachings. Today, fate has brought us together, and I would like to take you as my adopted son. With a father¡¯s blessing, I will help you soar high like a dragon. Will you ept?"

    With these words, the atmosphere exploded around them.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The hearts of the onlookers trembled! Envious nces fell on Yun Xiao.

    Born to a humble family, whose highest achievements were bing Rank 9 Arbiters, and now he was offered the position of a son by a Rank 3 Immortal general¡ªa meteoric rise!

    From a humble origin to the pinnacle of society in an instant!

    Without his own children, General Cao''s offer of adoption ced Yun Xiao almost as a natural son, elevating his status directly above that of Jiang Haiyan and her peers.

    At first, folks thought General Cao was merely seeking an apprentice to draw the youth closer, nothing more than that. But an adopted son? That was beyond anyone¡¯s expectations! Such a decision electrified the assembly.

    In the Celestial Court, a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer was a sovereign in his own right, second only to heavenly kings and star lords!

    In thends governed by the Thunder Department, few couldmand General Cao¡¯s attention.

    ¡°Sister, it¡¯s over. We don¡¯tpare to him anymore.¡± Jiang Heqing bit her lip, a mix of envy and unease in her tone.

    ¡°It¡¯s unbelievable... What kind of talent does he have for General Cao to be so eager to adopt him?¡± Jiang Haiyan¡¯s heart trembled slightly.

    She could see that General Cao was in a hurry! His urgency was apparent; he had pursued Yun Xiao here and immediately proposed adoption, clearly intent on securing this talent.

    While everyone envied Yun Xiao, it was General Cao who was truly desperate. He had extended his sincerity to the utmost.

    Under these circumstances, Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t possibly refuse! For a figure like General Cao to make such an offer publicly, if Yun Xiao were to decline, it would disgrace them both.

    And to cause embarrassment to the Summer Thunder Duke was to invite serious trouble.

    ¡°Lu Yao,¡± Jiang Taiping hurriedly reminded Yun Xiao, ¡°this is the greatest opportunity of your life. General Cao is offering you a chance to soar to the heavens¡ªare you not going to seize it?¡±

    With General Cao as his patron, just the resources alone would allow Yun Xiao to rapidly ascend!

    Power was always the most important capital! With power came the right to speak and make decisions!

    Yun Xiao thought if he asked, borrowing the Boundary Defining Divine Needle from Jiang Taiping should be simple, right?

    With every passing day, the spatial fractures in the Nine Hells spread, adding to Yun Xiao¡¯s worries! So, of course, he wouldn¡¯t miss this opportunity.

    However, the idea of recognizing a newly met person as an adoptive father made Yun Xiao slightly ufortable; he instinctively felt that General Cao and Jiang Taiping were not good people.

    He quickly weighed his options and then hurriedly said, ¡°General Cao, your deep favor fills me with trepidation. I still do not understand what virtues or abilities I possess to merit such esteem. I fear that my limited talents may one day disappoint you and tarnish your reputation¡­¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re refusing?¡± General Cao¡¯s smile vanished, his face stern as he asked.

    ¡°No!¡± Yun Xiao took a deep breath, ¡°A fraction of your favor is enough for me to die a thousand times over for you! But I fear the title of son might fail you¡­¡±

    With these words, Yun Xiao looked up at General Cao with earnestness and proposed, ¡°May I first regard you as my master and belong to your sect? If one day I can earn your approval through my strength and achievements, then I will ept the title of your son and continue your teachings.¡±

    "Agreed!" General Cao responded decisively and promptly to the proposal.

    Offering the status of an adopted son was a gesture of sincerity. Yun Xiao had not refused but expressed humility, showing his grounded nature. What General Cao needed was Yun Xiao''s allegiance, whether as an apprentice or more.

    Yun Xiao publicly dered that he sought to earn General Cao''s approval before assuming the role of adopted son, providing General Cao with flexibility for the future.

    With his aim achieved, General Cao was too pleased for words.

    "Disciple Lu Yao, I pay respect to my master!" Yun Xiao, quick as a cat, settled matters decisively, establishing their rtionship without hesitation.

    General Cao was no Liu Mumu. While thetter could only guide him in professional matters without sharing the treasures of her household, General Cao wielded the power to bestow anything from treasures to celestial weapons and spells. For Yun Xiao, this was nothing short of ascending to the heavens.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Tens of thousands of Immortals had gathered, witnessing this perfect match of talents, and they erupted in cheers.

    "Congrattions to General Cao!"

    "Congrattions to Lu Yao, may you soar to the heavens!"

    For many from humble origins, this scene was like a dream, stirring deep envy.

    "What kind of talent does Lu Yao possess that even the Thunder Immortal Formation reacted to his spirit?" Zhao Danming''s face darkened with envy and resentment.

    His father, a mere Rank 6 Heavenly Officer, was nothing more than a minor follower in General Cao''s eyes, not even on par with Dongfang Sheng. He didn''t even qualify to sit at their table!

    Not just Zhao Danming, but Dongfang Yong and Chen Yu too, watching a Rank 9 Arbiter they considered beneath them suddenly rise above, felt a dark bitterness seep into their souls.

    "Sister, this is wonderful." Jiang Heqing gripped her sister''s hand, her voice low with suggestion, "He may only be General Cao''s disciple now, but he will surely be his adopted son. Shall we join forces?"

    "Join forces?" Jiang Haiyan asked, biting her lip.

    "Isn''t it better if we sisters work together? There are many noble girls in the Thunder Department. Being close gives us the first opportunity. If we dy, others might step ahead..." Jiang Heqing pouted.

    "What are you thinking!" Jiang Haiyanughed and yfully pushed her sister''s head, then quietly looked towards Yun Xiao, shining among the crowd. "But you''re right, the temptations are many in the sacrednd of the Thunder Department, and father will surely push us to move quickly. Today, our paying for him to perform the Soaring Thunder Leap led to this fortune. He''ll surely appreciate the favor, and that''s our advantage."

    Jiang Heqing could sense that her older sister was deeply moved too.

    At the sight of the two sisters giggling to each other, the three young masters from Sky Soaring City could no longer hold back, their faces twisting into bitter grimaces.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 553: Emperors New Clothes!

    Chapter 553: Emperor''s New Clothes!

    Dongfang Yong, Zhao Danming, and Chen Yu were all in the same boat. No matter how hard it was for them to ept, Yun Xiao¡¯s ascent was a foregone conclusion, already spreading swiftly across the Thunder Department.

    "I and others congratte General Cao, for the joy of gaining a precious disciple!" Jiang Taiping dered, leading the cheers with a beaming smile.

    "Taiping, it''s through your efforts I have this beloved disciple," General Cao said with augh.

    "Not at all, not at all." Jiang Taiping chuckled, ncing towards the core of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, then whispered beside General Cao, "Just now, several awe-inspiring presences descended. Hearing you had acted first, they all withdrew."

    General Cao grinned. "These old fellows, with noses so keen, are used to snatching up talents."

    He knew Jiang Taiping was underlining his own role in making these connections!

    There was no need for him to promise anything to Jiang Taiping! The connection was already in ce!

    Moreover, if Jiang Heqing and Jiang Haiyan performed well in the selection for the Immortal Tournament, Jiang Taiping''s tenure in the Thunder Department would be paved forward with gold!

    Overwhelmed with congrattions, General Cao was in high spirits. He then looked at the youth''s face! A spitting image of the face that had appeared in the sky just moments before.It was a striking visage, unlikely to find a match throughout the sacrednd of the Thunder Department.

    "A talent with an Immemorial Thunder Seed was born! And he was instantly snatched up by me! What a stroke of luck!" General Cao inwardly mused. He then beckoned to Yun Xiao, "Come here, my dear disciple.

    ''Yes, Master." Yun Xiao approached him.

    "Good, good!" General Caoughed, patting Yun Xiao''s shoulder with a vigorous hand. "It''s time for you to show everyone your Immemorial Thunder Seed!"

    "Immemorial Thunder Seed?" Yun Xiao blinked in surprise. He looked around and saw dozens of officials gazing at him expectantly.

    "You still don''t realize it?" General Cao smiled wryly, cheerfully adding, "No matter, just manifest your spirit. I reckon there''s at least a hundred of us here that can see the true vastness of your essence!"

    It appeared only the powerful could discern the special potential of the Immemorial Thunder Seed!

    Clearly, General Cao was the most familiar with it.

    "He can see the unique aspects of the spirit of the Creator Immortal?" Yun Xiao thought to himself. That was indeed impressive

    So it was, under the gaze of countless eager eyes, that Yun Xiao let his spirit emerge from his body. Invisible to others, his spirit appeared just as his mortal self.

    "Manifest!" Amid a hush, with a mere thought from Yun Xiao, a cluster of white mist gathered a mere foot before him.

    Curiosity shone in the eyes of all who surrounded him.

    "The Immemorial Thunder Seed!"

    Before the mist even fully condensed, the excitement of the crowd surged.

    With the intense focus of thousands upon him, the form of Yun Xiao''s spirit emerged before him, twin-like in its appearance.

    The Creator Immortal''s spirit! Enveloped in mist, it exuded an ethereal grace, d in garments of white untouched by worldly dust, pure as a newborn soul, calming the hearts of all who beheld it.

    "Wow! Is that the Immemorial Thunder Seed!?"

    "As handsome as Lu Yao!"

    "He looks just like Lu Yao!"

    A deafening chorus of awe and exmations echoed around.

    Indeed, everyone was in admiration!

    Clearly, this was rted to General Cao''s earlier statement. None were among that hundred, but all aspired to be!

    "Wow!"

    These exmations stunned Yun Xiao himself.

    "Do they all recognize the greatness of my spirit?" Just as this thought crossed his mind, Yun Xiao felt the air stiffen, the temperature seemingly dropping. What was happening? He looked up!

    Before him, General Cao, Jiang Taiping, and Dongfang Sheng stared at his spirit. Their smiles froze, their eyes flickering with too much¡ªshock, confusion, disbelief, and even anger?

    Anger zed in General Cao''s eyes. His gaze, fiery and unyielding, fixed upon Yun Xiao''s spirit form, his face twitching uncontrobly.

    Tens of thousands cheered!

    Only about a hundred, much like General Cao, had their faces tightened, as if scrutinizing the Emperor''s new clothes.

    "Is that... the Immemorial Thunder Seed? Why does it look just like a true-self spirit?"

    A crisp voice rang out, suddenly loud amidst the silence.

    People turned in shock to see a little boy speaking, his voice tentative, "Doesn''t it look exactly like him? Isn¡¯t that just a true-self spirit? My father says that¡¯s the most useless spirit in the Celestial Court. A spirit that manifests as oneself means that for a thousand generations, none of his ancestors were stronger than him, not even a single one..."

    His words trailed off into a hushed silence.

    By the time he finished, the once-boiling scene froze over.

    Everyone nced at Yun Xiao, then at General Cao... the absurdity of the situation sent a ripple of unease through the crowd.

    "Stop talking nonsense! That''s the Immemorial Thunder Seed!" The boy''s father dashed over, covering his son¡¯s mouth, and dragging him to kneel before General Cao, his forehead sweating as he bowed deeply. "General Cao, my son knows not the heights of heaven nor the depths of earth, speaking out of turn. Please, for his youth, spare us!"

    His face was ghostly pale as he spoke. His words plunged the scene deeper into deathly silence.

    "..." General Cao¡¯s face twitched violently. His eyes moved from Yun Xiao''s spirit, turning away coldly, thunder shing in his gaze as he bellowed, "Jiang Taiping!"

    "General Cao!" Jiang Taiping, sweating profusely, his face contorted, "It can¡¯t be, sir. He looks the same, yes, but surely the manifestation of the Immemorial Thunder Seed is just deeply hidden?"

    General Cao gave him a cold nce, then ordered another, "Take this portrait and search throughout the Thunder Department!"

    "Search for whom?" The official, holding the portrait, was confused.

    "One who looks like this!" General Cao, without another nce at Yun Xiao, gestured dismissively behind him.

    After speaking, his face dark as stormy waters, General Cao stepped past Jiang Taiping and vanished from the sight of the gathered masses. He was in search of one who looked like this, but not this very one!

    "Huh?"

    "Did he rush to court a genius only to be aughingstock?"

    The crowd remained frozen in ce, dumbstruck for a long while.

    "What now?"

    Suddenly, a sly and mocking voice carried through the air.

    All eyes turned to see Zhao Danming, who seemed to have just climbed out from a well, stretching his voice with augh, "After all that fuss, it turns out to be just a possum masquerading as a prince. Look at him earlier, all puffed up with pride¡ªit''s hrious, haha..."

    Beside him, Dongfang Yong and Chen Yu shook their heads, theirughter tinged with deeper meaning.

    "Sister!" It took a moment for Jiang Heqing to catch on, then once again, she asked in confusion, "So, does that mean Yun Xiao still counts as General Cao''s disciple or not? Should we still cozy up to him?"

    Jiang Haiyan pursed her lips, replying, "Let''s not talk anymore. Let''s head back to the Hall of Soaring Thunder and focus on this afternoon''s selection for the Immortal Tournament."

    With that, Jiang Haiyan and her group were the first to leave.

    Yun Xiao was left alone, under the gaze of tens of thousands, feeling as if he were stripped bare. Fortunately, he had not acknowledged a foster father; otherwise, he would have seemed even more foolish now.

    "How does it feel?" Blue Star couldn''t help but chuckle.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "It''s like I just rode on the Soaring Thunder Leap again. I was lifted up to the heavens, and then cast down to hell. How thrilling¡­!" Yun Xiao squinted at these cynical people andughed.

    He had thought the stepping stone under his foot wouldunch him skyward in an instant. But to speak truthfully, this was the stark reality!

    "No stepping stone, no matter. I am in a hurry, but not desperate." Yun Xiao looked towards the distant expanse of thunder pces and smiled. "As for what kind of spirit mine truly is, everyone in the Thunder Department will soon have another chance to recognize it again."

 Chapter 554: Thank You For the Warning in Advance

    Chapter 554: Thank You For the Warning in Advance

    Back in the Hall of Soaring Thunder, within the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, the bustle of the outside world surged like a tempest. The people were still abuzz about theedic blunder between General Cao and Yun Xiao¡ªa case of mistaking a carp for a dragon. Lu Yao''s name was now known far and wide, a running joke in every corner.

    Within the Hall of Soaring Thunder, many youths from other cities had also heard about the amusing incident.

    General Cao and the fake prodigy Yun Xiao were the talk of the town as the section for the Immortal Tournament¡ªa source of light-hearted banter amongst the hopefuls.

    In this unfolding drama, both men emerged as losers, their misfortune extending to make even Sky Soaring City an object of ridicule.

    The current talk was about whether Lu Yao still counted as the adopted son of the Summer Thunder Duke. After all, General Cao had departed as quickly as he arrived, leaving no answers in his wake.

    Indeed, there wasughter all around.

    Amidst thisughter, the Jiang sisters and the three young masters of Sky Soaring City stepped back into the protective confines of the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion.

    ¡°Haiyan.¡± The youth in the ck robe, Dongfang Yong, halted and turned to the slender girl with deep blue eyes. ¡°Can we talk?¡±

    Jiang Haiyan turned around, her gaze serene. ¡°About what?¡±It was clear that Dongfang Yong and hispanions had much to discuss.

    Zhao Danming spoke up in a hushed, respectful tone, ¡°We want to know what''s exactly going on with Lu Yao?¡±

    ¡°What''s there to know? Everything about him is all there in his records,¡± Jiang Haiyan replied, her mood evidently soured, her tone sharp.

    ¡°Is there nothing else hidden? No powerful backers perhaps?¡± Zhao Danming asked further.

    ¡°There is none,¡± she stated tly.

    Upon hearing this, the three young masters exchanged nces, clearly skeptical.

    Finally, Dongfang Yong, with a grave expression, said, ¡°He''s a prime suspect for the murders in Sangju City. If he has no powerful connections, howe there was no investigation?¡±

    Jiang Haiyan nced at him indifferently, her arms crossed, her voice soft yet distant, "Do you really want to hear the truth?"

    "Haiyan, we have followed you sisters since childhood, and will be your swords and shields in the future. We wish only for the truth," Dongfang Yong implored with intense eyes.

    "Yes!" Zhao Danming and Chen Yu chimed in, nodding eagerly.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Jiang Haiyan''s gaze softened a touch. After a pause, she said, "Before, we thought he had some hidden ace, so we were afraid to act rashly. We even considered drawing him to our side. But you saw what happened just now."

    Dongfang Yong''s eyes flickered. "It''s much as I suspected."

    "So, this boy is just a reckless fool, nearly duping us all?" Zhao Danming''s gaze turned cold.

    "Figure it out for yourselves," Jiang Haiyan said, as if weary of the subject.

    Beside her, Jiang Heqing listened to her frankness to the three young men, a flicker of surprise crossing her features.

    As Jiang Haiyan turned to leave, Jiang Heqing hurried after her. Her expression peculiar, she whispered to her sister, "Although there was a mix-up just now, father hasn''t yet decided if Lu Yao truly has any hidden strengths."

    "Mhm." Jiang Haiyan nodded.

    "But the way you spoke, they might think a verdict has already been reached!" Jiang Heqing bit her lip.

    "I merely suggested they think for themselves. I never said Lu Yao was indeed just a desperate nobody." Jiang Haiyan''s beautiful face was stern, her tone light.

    "I see," Jiang Heqing was taken aback, "Sister, are you using them to test Lu Yao further?"

    "..." Jiang Haiyan did not deny it, simply continuing forward.

    "You know how long those stupid boys have been pining after us. As soon as they believe Lu Yao poses no threat, they won''t hold back," Jiang Heqing warned.

    "Isn''t that just perfect?" Jiang Haiyan shrugged, "If Lu Yao does have a powerful backer, it''s Dongfang Yong and the others who will have offended him, not us. We could still step in, earn his gratitude. And if he falls, he deserves it. It''s what he gets for trying to fly too close to the sun. I won''t waste any more effort on him."

    "Oh." Jiang Heqing nodded, gazing at her sister. "You''re also less confident about Lu Yao now after the incident with the Immemorial Thunder Seed, aren''t you?"

    The two sisters had both felt the sting of that humiliation.

    "It''s an unpleasant feeling, indeed."

    "From what I''ve seen, the boy is nothing but a brute without brains. Still, I think it''s best to wait for father''s verdict," Jiang Heqing added softly.

    "How can you grow if you always wait for instructions?" With that, Jiang Haiyan turned and entered a tall building. They reached the rooftop and stood looking down at the gateway of the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion.

    Just in time, Yun Xiao had returned to the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, only to find Dongfang Yong, Zhao Danming, and Chen Yu blocking his way.

    The earlier incident had sent their emotions soaring like a thunderbolt, and now, as they regarded the young man in white, Jiang Haiyan''s words had dispelled theirst shred of doubt.

    Yun Xiao had already reached the Essence Manifestation Realm. He was on his way to the cultivation chamber, hoping to use thest bits of time to raise his cultivation even further. When he looked up, he saw the three young masters looking at him coldly.

    Dongfang Yong was seated on a bench in the distant corridor, while Zhao Danming and Chen Yu nked him.

    "Well, if it isn''t the adopted son of the Summer Thunder Duke?" Zhao Danming suddenly said with a smile, bowing slightly to Yun Xiao.

    "What do you want?" asked Yun Xiao.

    "Are you serious?" Zhao Danming chuckled.

    Beside him, Chen Yu also shook his head in amusement.

    From a distance, Dongfang Yong watched quietly.

    "Lu Yao," Zhao Danming continued after hisughter, his eyebrows raised yfully. "Alright, enough bullshit. Let''s set the facts straight. At best, you''re just a dog we took out for a stroll. Don''t think that after tasting a bit of favor, you''ve ascended."

    Yun Xiao¡¯s lips curled slightly, a serene smile forming as he looked at Zhao Danming. "Were you so worried I''d get carried away that you rushed over here to warn me?"

    "Yes, I''m warning you!" Zhao Danming¡¯s look was icy. "You, a powerless, statusless, backgroundless Rank 9 Arbiter Initiate, was merely included out of politeness. Don¡¯t think you belong in our circle just because you were taken out once. In our presence, keep your head down and your tail wagging. If you strut around us like you belong, don''t me us for taking you down."

    "This is the Thunder Department''s Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office. Thews of the Celestial Court loom over your head. You can''t be serious. You daremit a crime against an Arbiter? Aren''t you afraid of divine retribution?" Yun Xiao said incredulously.

    "Lu Yao!" Chen Yu, who had been silent, spoke up with a chilling tone, "Yes, we won''t kill you. But, what about your dear old mother? Blind and powerless, aren¡¯t you afraid something might happen to her?"

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao nodded deeply, then responded, "I ought to thank you guys for the warning in advance then. You really have me scared now."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 555: The Grim Reaper Knocking

    Chapter 555: The Grim Reaper Knocking

    "Are you truly afraid, or just pretending?" Zhao Danming asked with a cold smile.

    "I''m genuinely scared," Yun Xiao replied earnestly, looking at them. "The world is so dark and dangerous. I''m just a Rank 9 Arbiter Initiate, a meremoner, with an elderly mother who could meet with any mishap at any time. How dare I oppose the likes of you, the scions of high officials? Rest assured, I''ll keep my distance from the sisters from now on."

    Zhao Danmingughed heartily, patting Yun Xiao on the shoulder. "Good! As for earlier, we were just joking. Don''t take it to heart. By the way, you don''t have any Projection Orbs on you, do you?"

    "Nope." Yun Xiao extended his hand, showing it was empty.

    "Good, very good." Zhao Danming exchanged a pleased nce with Chen Yu. "Being sensible saves you a lot of trouble."

    "Indeed." Chen Yu nodded, then turned to the man behind him. "Brother Yong, anything to add?"

    "No need." Dongfang Yong rose, giving Yun Xiao a cold nce before walking away. "Go rest and prepare for the Immortal Tournament selection."

    "Agreed. The Soaring Thunder Leap was intense. I''ll head back to my cultivation chamber and lie down to clear my mind," Zhao Danming said with augh.

    In high spirits, Zhao Danming, Chen Yu, and Dongfang Yong left, while Yun Xiao returned to his own cultivation chamber as if nothing had happened.From a distant high building, Jiang Haiyan watched the scene unfold.

    "Sister, what''s your conclusion?" Jiang Heqing asked.

    Jiang Haiyan shook her head in disappointment. "Father usually judges people well, but he was wrong this time."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Half an hourter, outside Zhao Danming''s cultivation chamber, there was a knock on the stone door.

    "Who is it?" Zhao Danming checked the time; it wasn''t yet time to leave. He had just taken a Celestial Meditation Elixir to nurture his spirit and had been interrupted.

    "Brother Zhao, it''s me, Lu Yao," a clear voice called from outside.

    "What do you want?" Zhao Danming''s tone turned cold.

    "The selection is about to start, and I''m short of something. I came to borrow a bit from you," Yun Xiao said from outside the door.

    Hearing this, Zhao Danming''s face twisted in irritation. How could this guy be so clueless? Did he really consider himself on their level? And now he wanted to borrow something?

    "Borrow what?!" Zhao Danming gritted his teeth as he opened the stone door, ready to give the boy a p.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    <em>BOOM! </em>The door had just opened a crack.

    <em>STAB! </em>An azure sword thrust through the gap, piercing Zhao Danming¡¯s open mouth and exiting through the back of his head.

    <em>DRIP! DRIP! DRIP! </em>Blood and brain matter gushed from Zhao Danming¡¯s mouth, flowing freely. His eyes widened in shock, blood pooling in them, almost popping out of their sockets.

    Thest thing he saw was a young man in white standing in the gap, wearing a harmless smile as he said, "Oh, nothing much. Just all of your belongings."

    Then, everything went dark.

    Yun Xiao withdrew the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, and Zhao Danming''s body fell backward.

    Before Zhao Danming hit the ground, Yun Xiao caught him with his foot, gently lowering him. He then took the Bag of Holding from Zhao Danming¡¯s body.

    With that done, he lifted Zhao Danming¡¯s corpse and held it.

    "Brother Zhao, you''re merely at the peak of the Essence Manifestation Realm. You really thought you could threaten me? Now you¡¯ve paid the price."

    Yun Xiao dragged Zhao Danming¡¯s body to the next room. Then, he knocked on the door.

    "Who is it?" Chen Yu asked from inside.

    "It''s me, Lu Yao, and Brother Zhao is here too," Yun Xiao said.

    "You and Zhao Danming?" Chen Yu, puzzled, came to open the door.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The door opened, and Zhao Danming''s body was shoved through, falling into Chen Yu¡¯s arms.

    "Zhao Danming, are you insane?" Chen Yu eximed.

    What was with this hugging? As he pushed Zhao Danming away, he saw blood pouring from Zhao Danming¡¯s mouth and his eyes wide and bloody. His face was frozen in terror.

    "Huh?" Chen Yu suddenly felt a chill crawl up his spine. "Lu Yao?!"

    Disbelief filled Chen Yu''s face. This was the heart of the Thunder Department. Moreover, it was the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office''s Hall of Soaring Thunder! They were about to participate in the Immortal Tournament selection as Rank 8 Arbiter Commanders.

    How could murder be possible here?

    Chen Yu spun around in horror! As his head turned, Yun Xiao¡¯s azure sword, quick as lightning, tore through the air, piercing his brow in a blink.

    Chen Yu¡¯s body shuddered, his eyes rolling back.

    "You, you..." He weakly reached out a hand, trembling as he pointed at Yun Xiao, his eyes filled with terror and confusion. Then, his world darkened.

    <em>THUD! </em>His body fell to the ground, embracing Zhao Danming in death.

    "Chen Yu, you seemed like a decent sort, but how could you threaten someone with their mother?" Yun Xiao remarked with a click of his tongue. "That''s not right. Forget about this life, be more careful in the next."

    Yun Xiao collected his belongings, piled him with Zhao Danming, and then pierced them both with a single sword stroke.

    Afterwards, he quietly watched as the two men''s flesh, bones, and skin were swept into ash and smoke under the corrosive force of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. Finally, only their rich garments remained.

    Two Arbiter Commanders had died! And they were the children of Rank 6 Heavenly Officers!

    Such an event was exceedingly rare in the annals of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    Nevertheless, Yun Xiao knew what he was doing. "One more left, but he''s above the Essence Manifestation Realm. So, it''s going to be a bit tougher to handle him."

    Despite this, Yun Xiao headed towards the third cultivation chamber''s grand door! He was about to knock on the stone door. But suddenly, at the entrance of the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, a group of powerful people walked in.

    Liu Mumu was there to greet them. It was Jiang Taiping and Dongfang Sheng themselves! They didn''t bother to hide their noise; their voices ringing out through the corridors.

    Yun Xiao caught wind of them instantly. His hair stood on end! If these folks caught him, the consequences were unpredictable. At least, ying the role of Lu Yao would be over!

    This was a moment of peril after an unexpected turn!

    Yun Xiao stopped knocking and, without a word, turned and headed in another direction! It was towards the back hall of the western wing!

    This was the temporary abode of Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing, far superior to the cultivation chambers assigned to Yun Xiao and his peers.

    Upon arriving, Yun Xiao''s expression was stern, he didn''t say a word, and just pushed the door and barged in!

    Inside, the sisters were changing into their Arbiter armor, a flurry of white all around.

    "Ah!" Jiang Heqing screamed, her face blushing.

    Jiang Haiyan looked coldly at Yun Xiao. She gestured with her hand, and in an instant, the Arbiter armor covered their delicate bodies.

    "Are you courting death?" Jiang Haiyan''s eyes roiled with waves of anger, ring intensely at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao approached them, his eyes intense, and said, "I just killed Zhao Danming and Chen Yu."

    "What?" Jiang Heqing was stunned, her mind went nk.

    "And then?" Jiang Haiyan was also shaken, then she bit her lip and asked, her eyes flowing with a cold light.

    Yun Xiao stood before them, his gaze strong and domineering, and dered, "I want you sisters to provide me with an alibi."

 Chapter 556: Exchanging a Lowly Life

    Chapter 556: Exchanging a Lowly Life

    When Yun Xiao spoke those words, Jiang Heqing was left utterly speechless, her irritation peaking as she eximed, ¡°Lu Yao, have youpletely lost your mind?¡±

    Murder or an alibi¡ªeither concept was utterly absurd to the sisters.

    Jiang Haiyan, listening to this exchange, had already drawn her conclusions.

    "This guy is truly a madman without any sense of proportion."

    Realizing this, any fondness she might have felt for the young man plummeted to absolute zero.

    She pointed towards the stone door, her expression icy as shemanded, ¡°Get out!¡±

    ¡°What if I don¡¯t?¡± Yun Xiao challenged.

    Jiang Haiyan was taken aback; she had never encountered someone of her age with such audacity.

    ¡°Ha.¡± With a coldugh, she raised her hand to strike Yun Xiao''s forehead, her palm sweeping through the air like a vast ocean, roaring as it moved!Yun Xiao watched her calmly.

    From his chest, a small ck beast suddenly burst forth, instantly transforming into the body and lid of a coffin, trapping Jiang Haiyan inside.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Her palm struck the bottom of the coffin, and amidst a bizarre cry, the coffin remainedpletely unscathed, standing like a prison.

    ¡°This must be the treasure that blocked the Flying Sword, surely a special artifact!¡± Jiang Haiyan thought, realizing that this might be the destiny her father had spoken of.

    Her eyes warmed slightly. Yet, Yun Xiao''s bold move infuriated her further.

    ¡°Not only does he dare to fight back, but he dares to trap me?¡±

    What kind of Arbiter Initiate was this?

    ¡°Sister!¡± Just as Jiang Haiyan¡¯s pride was still at y, Jiang Heqing¡¯s cry of rm made her heart skip a beat.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    It was only then that Jiang Haiyan realized that Yun Xiao¡¯s target was her sister!

    By the time she reacted, it was toote.

    Jiang Heqing¡¯s cry abruptly stopped.

    ¡°Lu Yao, if you harm a single hair on her head, your entire n will be wiped out, never to be reborn!¡± Jiang Haiyan warned coldly from within the dark coffin.

    At the same time, she was about to summon her celestial treasure and Life Sigil to break free from the coffin.

    In the blink of an eye, the coffin swung open.

    "Don''t move," Yun Xiao''s indifferent voice struck Jiang Haiyan''s ears.

    She whirled around! There stood Yun Xiao, directly behind Jiang Heqing. One arm was wrapped tightly around Jiang Heqing''s slender waist, and in his other hand, he held an azure Sword Soul pressed against her temple.

    Jiang Heqing''s lips parted, her face pale and her body trembling. Her eyes, red and watery, met Jiang Haiyan''s, and she stammered, "Sister! Sister! Calm down, he has nothing to lose!"

    "Alright!" Jiang Haiyan suppressed the fury swelling within her, ring intently at Yun Xiao. "You dare to abduct a daughter of a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court¡ªwhat madness has taken hold of you?"

    "I told you, I need you to provide me an alibi," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "Ahh¡­!" Jiang Heqing''s voice quivered, her spine chilling. "Sister, he means he really did kill Zhao Danming and Chen Yu!"

    Jiang Haiyan realized it too! If he hadn''t killed someone, there''d be no need for this chaos.

    "You''ve really lost it. They just warned you, and you killed them in revenge?" Jiang Haiyan looked at him incredulously. Why did he act so brutally?

    "Wasn''t it you who used them to probe my secrets?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, his tone chilling. "Jiang Haiyan, don¡¯t try to be clever in front of me."

    Her gaze deepened. This man knew everything! Truly a desperado living on the edge! Realizing his ruthlessness and madness, Jiang Haiyan eyed the azure Sword Soul in his hand, her heart skipping a beat.

    Those born fortunate did indeed fear the desperate!

    "Sister, please cooperate with him. I don¡¯t want to die!" Jiang Heqing¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears, her body copsing weakly against Yun Xiao.

    "Lu Yao, how do you want us to cooperate?" Jiang Haiyan gritted her teeth.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Just follow my instructions exactly. Make one mistake, and she dies," Yun Xiao stated coldly.

    "Fine! But don¡¯t push it too far!" Jiang Haiyan warned.

    "I have no need to be excessive. Understand, my only goal is tomit murder without consequence, and I still n to continuepeting in the Immortal Tournament. Making enemies with you benefits me none," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "Fine." Jiang Haiyan nodded.

    Yet, inside, she was utterly speechless! A mere Rank 9 Arbiter Initiate, openly killing two Rank 8 Arbiter Commanders within the halls of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, and then nning to boldly continue participating in the Immortal Tournament?

    Yun Xiao dismissed the authority and enforcement of the entire Celestial Court''s Thunder Department with a mere gesture.

    What was he nning? Facing such a frenzied devil, Jiang Haiyan harbored only concern.

    Upon receiving her affirmative response, Yun Xiao looked at the sisters and warned, ¡°You better cooperate fully. Otherwise, trading my lowly life for your little sister''s noble one is a gain for me.¡±

    "Yes, yes¡­" Jiang Heqing sobbed in agreement.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion in the courtyard, Governor Jiang himself was escorting ady.

    She was a woman dressed in a luxurious violet gown that added a touch of sophistication and allure to her mature charm. The high slit of her gown revealed her exceptionally long, shimmering legs, which were whiter and rounder than those of any man present. Her waist was as slender as a snake, and her figure was nearly as curvaceous as a demon war princess''. Her slightly curly, wavy hair shone brilliantly, and her eyes, alive with sparks of lightning, held a seductive promise. Her bright red lips were like mes drawing the eye.

    Like General Cao, two small, violet serpents coiled around her ears, weaving in and out of her hair like little pets, giving her the look of a fiery snake demon.

    Even Jiang Taiping stood by her side, indicating the high status of this woman.

    Liu Mumu stood aside, bowing slightly with a look of reverence as she greeted, "Thunder Emissary."

    She knew this woman held the position of Thunder Emissary, a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer.

    Jiang Taiping was ted to be promoted to the same position, yet this woman was considerably younger than him.

    The position of Thunder Emissary was the pinnacle for Jiang Taiping, but not for her!

    "Emissary Jiang," the woman spoke slowly, exuding azy confidence that none dared to disregard. She called out to Jiang Taiping, then said, ¡°Bring out the young talents of your Sky Soaring City.¡±

    "Right away," Jiang Taiping chuckled awkwardly, then signaled to Liu Mumu.

    Liu Mumu nodded, stepped outside the training room into the courtyard, and shouted, ¡°Time¡¯s up, gather and move out!¡±

    <em>BANG! </em>One of the stone doors swung open immediately, and Dongfang Yong stepped out in his Arbiter armor, his face stern.

    After a few steps, he looked back and saw that the doors to Lu Yao, Zhao Danming, and Chen Yu¡¯s cultivation chambers were still closed. He turned to Liu Mumu and said, ¡°Wait a moment, I¡¯ll call them.¡±

    As he walked towards their cultivation chambers, Dongfang Yong was somewhat speechless, thinking, ¡°What¡¯s taking so long at a time like this?¡±

    What followed was the most important asion of their lives!

    "Zhao Danming!" Dongfang Yong boomed as he pushed open the stone door, peering inside.

    "Nobody here?"

    Without much thought, he moved to Chen Yu''s cultivation chamber.

    "Hurry up! The Thunder Emissary is waiting outside," Liu Mumu urged from the doorway.

    Her urging was met with a shout from Dongfang Yong!

    "Sister Mumu, something''s wrong!" Dongfang Yong stood trembling at Chen Yu''s door.

    "What happened?" Liu Mumu hurried over.

    ncing inside, she detected a faint scent of blood and noticed two articles of clothing on the ground.

    "These belong to Zhao Danming and Chen Yu!" Dongfang Yong''s face paled as he spoke with a shaky voice.

    "Impossible¡­" Liu Mumu turned to him, "What did you all do aftering back from outside?"

    "Nothing, just went back to our cultivation chambers to rest!" Dongfang Yong''s face twisted with worry. "Sister Mumu, they wouldn''t just run off, would they? Could something have happened?"

    Liu Mumu closed her eyes, extending her spiritual sense, and finally said with a quivering voice, "I sense the agonizing cries of dying spirits, someone died here!"

    And it was clear who it was.

    "How could this be¡­" Dongfang Yong''s mind reeled, these were people he had known since childhood.

    More crucially, this was a ce ofw enforcement under the Celestial Court, the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office!

    "This is unprecedented!"

    Knowing she could not bear the responsibility, Liu Mumu quickly left to find Governor Jiang.

    "Where are they?" Jiang Taiping was chatting andughing with the Thunder Emissary when he saw Liu Mumu return alone, and his face immediately turned stern.

    "Governor Jiang, Zhao Danming and Chen Yu might have died in their cultivation chambers," Liu Mumu said, her eyes trembling. Her mind had been a nk until she spoke those words, and then she suddenly remembered a young man in white!

    <em>THUMP! THUMP! </em>Her heart raced wildly.

    "What?!" Jiang Taiping, Dongfang Sheng, and the other Heavenly Officers from Sky Soaring City thought they had misheard.

    "Excuse us for a moment, Thunder Emissary," Jiang Taiping and others turned into streaks of phantoms, rushing to the scene.

    "A murder at the Hall of Soaring Thunder? In my several hundred years, I''ve never seen such a thing. Interesting," the Thunder Emissary murmured, her eyes gleaming curiously as she followed them.

    When she arrived, she saw Jiang Taiping and the others gathered at Chen Yu''s door, each face ashen.

    "It''s confirmed; they''re dead," Jiang Taiping said grimly.

    His proteges from Sky Soaring City, not yet battle-tested, had been in! How could such a bizarre incident ur? And the victims were his most trusted sessors!

    How could Jiang Taiping face the families of Zhao Danming and Chen Yu?

    "Dongfang Sheng, seal off the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion immediately and check the magical array records for any entries or exits!" Jiang Taiping ordered coldly.

    "Yes." Dongfang Sheng, seeing his son Dongfang Yong safe, heaved a sigh of relief and hurried off to carry out his duties.

    "Really dead, huh?" The Thunder Emissary stepped forward gracefully, the crowd parting to let her view the scene.

    After examining it, she shook her head and clicked her tongue. "This must be the work of some reckless youth... Tomit murder at the Hall of Soaring Thunder, if this case isn''t solved, it''s the Thunder Department''s reputation that will be tarnished."

    Just then, the visibly enraged Dongfang Yong burst into another cultivation chamber.

    "Just as I thought, he¡¯s not here!" Dongfang Yong growled, then looked towards Jiang Taiping and the others.

    "Are you suggesting Lu Yao did this?" Jiang Taiping''s expression darkened.

    Hearing this, Liu Mumu also felt a tremor in her heart, her gaze filled withplexity and worry.

    "Governor Jiang! Thunder Emissary!" Dongfang Yong suddenly knelt before them. "I''m 100% certain, it was Lu Yao who killed them!"

    "Your reason?" Jiang Taiping demanded.

    "Right after returning to the Hall of Soaring Thunder, Zhao Danming and Chen Yu confronted him at the door, warning him to stay away from Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing. They even threatened Lu Yao with his family!" Dongfang Yong, unconcerned about the deceased''s reputations,id everything bare.

    After speaking, he hurriedly added, "This young man hasmitted murder and is surely on the run now! We must seal the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office and capture him!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 557: A Mad Dog!

    Chapter 557: A Mad Dog!

    The sealing of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office was no small matter. Naturally, no one supported Dongfang Yong''s proposal.

    Just then, Dongfang Sheng returned, his face wearing an odd expression. "Thunder Emissary Cao, Governor Jiang, no one has left the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion in thest half hour!"

    "He hasn''t fled?" Dongfang Yong shuddered, his voice trembling. "Governor Jiang, Haiyan and Heqing might be in danger!"

    There was no need for him to say it; Governor Jiang and the others had already thought as much.

    In a sh, they all headed towards the back hall of the western wing.

    "Let''s go." Dongfang Sheng grabbed his son, his voice grave, "Don''t worry, the man is simply mad. After this, no one can save him."

    "Such defiance of the heavenlyws, no matter how strong his backing, the entire Celestial Court will execute him!" Dongfang Yong said coldly.

    "I hope the sisters are alright, otherwise..." Dongfang Sheng shook his head, dragging his son as they rushed to the western wing.

    As they neared, Dongfang Yong''s eyes widened, pointing nervously at a graceful room. "There are screams! It means a fight, hurry!"He heard them, and so clearly did the others.

    "Is he just a mad dog?" Governor Jiang was burning with impatience. Though he seemed calm on the surface, inside he was fuming over his <empse of judgment.</em>

    He wished he had just killed the young man from the start! His anger surged like a stormy sea, leading the charge towards the grand door of the room.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The stone door instantly shattered to dust!

    "Lu Yao!" Governor Jiang roared, and the room, full of inscriptions, copsed on the spot, revealing everything inside to the onlookers!

    They all gazed intently. On the floory scattered items of clothing and armor, among them undergarments. But all eyes were drawn to therge bed! Beneath the thick covers, a youth appeared, his upper body bare.

    He was embracing a beauty on each side, their nearly full bodies hidden beneath the covers, their attire unknown.

    From the flush of red on their faces, one might guess they were indeed bare.

    At the moment the door was broken through, the youth seemed in the midst of his conquest, prompting the dreamy-like <em>screams</em> from the girls.

    The sudden upheaval terrified the three of them, scattering their armor on the ground. They hastily gathered the pieces, wrapping their bodies with therge covers to preserve their modesty.

    The youth was none other than Yun Xiao. And the beauties were Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing. Their predicament unfolded before an audience, who stood rooted to the spot like statues.

    "Daddy!" Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing, their hair disheveled, hurriedly knelt on the ground in panic.

    "We didn''t do anything!" Jiang Heqing said, burying her head in her chest. But it was her scream that had echoed loudest just moments before. What would the seniors think?

    "..." Jiang Haiyan, meanwhile, said nothing. She bowed her head, her face the very picture of humiliation, as though she were flushed with shame.

    Indeed, Yun Xiao had done nothing untoward. Yet in the eyes of the onlookers, he might as well havemitted every sin under the sun.

    Standing awkwardly aside, he nced at the dumbstruck Governor Jiang and stumbled over his words, "Governor Jiang, this isn¡¯t what it looks like. We were merely discussing cultivation techniques¡­"

    "Don''t you start!" Dongfang Sheng snapped, his face ashen. Hismand was directed at his own son, Dongfang Yong, who sat slumped on the ground, his eyes red, his face a patchwork of blue and green, filled with disbelief and despair.

    He gazed despairingly at Jiang Haiyan, his heart breaking inside.

    What should have been a capture of a criminal had turned into this...

    Dongfang Yong felt as if his heart were being pierced by a thousand swords.

    And so, a deathly silence ensued for a full thirty seconds.

    Throughout, only the sound of breathing broke the quiet.

    "Daddy..." Jiang Heqing''s eyes shimmered with a hint of violet as her voice trembled, "My sister and I... we both care for him. That''s why we... even though he doesn¡¯t have an Immemorial Thunder Seed, we believe he has potential."

    "Silence," Governor Jiang said sternly, giving her a long look before turning to Jiang Haiyan.

    "Look at me."

    Slowly, Jiang Haiyan raised her head. Her eyes were red, her breathingbored, making it difficult to tell whether her expression was one of humiliation or shame.

    "How long has Lu Yao been with you?" Governor Jiang asked, staring into her eyes.

    Jiang Haiyan''s delicate body trembled slightly. From the corner of her eye, she nced at her sister Jiang Heqing, the faint violet glow in her eyes barely noticeable. But she had seen it.

    Jiang Haiyan bit her lip and said, "Father, it''s been half an hour..."

    "Impossible!!" Dongfang Yong suddenly stood up, ring fiercely at Jiang Haiyan and growled, "He killed Zhao Danming and Chen Yu, and hid here with you, it couldn¡¯t have been more than half an hour!"

    Jiang Haiyan, with solemn eyes, responded, "Dongfang Yong, what madness are you spouting?"

    "Eh?" Dongfang Yong¡¯s eyes nearly bled as he trembled. "Jiang Haiyan, I said, he killed Zhao Danming and Chen Yu!"

    Hearing this, Jiang Haiyan turned to Jiang Taiping and said, "Father, what madness is he spouting? This is the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office."

    "They are indeed dead," Jiang Taiping said.

    "How can this be?" Jiang Haiyan murmured in disbelief.

    "Father, who killed them?" Jiang Heqing asked, looking bewildered.

    "It was Lu Yao!" Dongfang Yong''s eyes twisted with rage as he red at the young man in white.

    Yun Xiao, hearing this, paused and said to Dongfang Yong, "Are you joking?"

    "You are too naive! The ironws of the Thunder Department are unyielding, and not even your feigned insanity here can absolve you of murder!" Dongfang Yong was hysterical, spurred by the scene he had just witnessed.

    "If we prove Lu Yao is the murderer, it means the earlier scene was a deception!"

    "Enough, Dongfang Yong!" Jiang Haiyan suddenly stood up. "Since returning from the Soaring Thunder Leap, Lu Yao has been with us. By using him, aren¡¯t you using us too? Shall we be arrested as well?"

    "..." Dongfang Yong looked at her,pletely stumped.

    "Jiang Haiyan, why are you protecting this audacious murderer? Your father is a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer, and you are backed by the Thunder Department of the Celestial Court. What are you afraid of?" Dongfang Yong was nearly breaking down.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Uncle Dongfang, he''s gone mad," Jiang Haiyan shook her head sadly, looking towards Dongfang Sheng.

    "Enough," Dongfang Sheng took a deep breath and held his son.

    "Father, let¡¯s not waste time here. We need to find the real murderer quickly and provide an exnation to the Zhao and Chen Families," Jiang Haiyan sighed.

    "Within half an hour, no one left the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, the murderer is among you," Jiang Taiping stated.

    "How can this be possible?" Jiang Heqing gasped.

    After this statement, the scene fell into dead silence again.

    "Hehe..." Suddenly, a gentleugh echoed from behind.

    Everyone turned to see theughter came from a tall, charming woman in a violet gown.

    It was Thunder Emissary Cao herself. She cast a lingering nce at Yun Xiao, then suddenly began to apud. "Brilliant, truly brilliant. Such an enthralling drama is rare among the young."

    Jiang Taiping quickly asked, "Thunder Emissary, what insights do you have?"

    Thunder Emissary Cao eyed Yun Xiao from head to toe and inquired, "This handsome man, he''s the new son my brother has taken in, isn''t he?"

    Jiang Taiping, with a hint of embarrassment, replied, "It is him, but the foster son matter, that¡¯s a misunderstanding."

    Thunder Emissary Cao didn''t care about the misunderstanding. She coyly raised an eyebrow, surveying Yun Xiao and remarked, "He really is quite handsome, no wonder the sisters are willing to share him."

    After a pause, she nced at the flush on the sisters'' faces and chuckled. "Conquering women shows he''s alsopetent in other arenas."

    Herment made even Jiang Taiping cringe. Still, he continued, "Are you saying the murderer isn''t Lu Yao?"

    Thunder Emissary Cao shook her head quickly. "I didn''t say that, but..."

    Here, she suddenly gave Dongfang Yong a yful look and teased, "From my years of experience in the Thunder Department, many a crime of passion often involves jealousy and using others to eliminate romantic rivals¡­ Of course, I''m not implying anything, just offering a perspective."

    As soon as she finished speaking, Dongfang Sheng copsed on the spot.

    "Dad..." Dongfang Yong was dumbstruck, looking utterly bewildered.

    "I was just about to say..." Yun Xiao took a deep breath and turned to Dongfang Yong, "When I came back earlier, it was you who instigated Zhao Danming and Chen Yu to warn me, wasn''t it? In your eagerness to pin the crime on me, you didn¡¯t hesitate to kill two sworn brothers as close as your own kin. Such deep-seated hatred, Dongfang Yong."

    ".." Upon hearing this, Dongfang Yong was utterly bbergasted. He shuddered and instinctively looked around. He saw that Jiang Taiping and the other officials were all staring at him! Their gazes made Dongfang Yong fearful.

    "No, no, no!" Dongfang Yong quickly grabbed his father''s hand, saying, "Dad, it''s not like that! Lu Yao conspired with Jiang Haiyan to frame me!"

    "Shut your mouth!" Dongfang Sheng''s face turned pale as he could only tremble and kneel before Governor Jiang, his voice quivering, "Governor Jiang!"

    He only cried out once and said nothing more, but all his pleas were embodied in that single kneel.

    Jiang Taiping pursed his lips and said, "It''s gettingte. First, head to the Nine Thunders Arena. You four participate in the selection. We''ll investigate this case afterwards."

    With that statement, the matter was decisively concluded!

    "Wha¡­!? Why?" Dongfang Yong could hardly believe his ears. His voice was filled with anguish and despair. "The murderer is obvious, isn''t it?"

    He lifted his head and found Yun Xiao smiling back at him¡ªa smile Dongfang Yong would never forget for as long as he lived. It began innocently enough, but as he continued to stare, that innocence morphed into a challenge, seasoned with profound indifference. The slight curl of Yun Xiao¡¯s lips sent a surge of blood to Dongfang Yong¡¯s brain.

    Thinking of Zhao Danming and Chen Yu only deepened his grief. "Governor Jiang!" he nearly cried out, his voice choked with emotion. "Why! He didn''t just kill Zhao Danming and Chen Yu, he ughtered thirteen Arbiters in Sangju City. Everyone knows he did it. Why is he not guilty? Why?"

    "Enough!" Dongfang Sheng pped him across the face and dragged him away forcefully.

    "Jiang Haiyan! Those two died for you and your sister. How can you let them die with their eyes still open? How can you live with yourself?!"

    Dongfang Yong¡¯s wretched voice echoed long after he was pulled away. Once the father and son had departed, Governor Jiang turned to Thunder Emissary Cao. "I¡¯m terribly sorry for this mess. I cannot shirk my responsibility."

    "It''s a trivial matter." Thunder Emissary Cao smiled charmingly and winked at Yun Xiao. "Let¡¯s talk this out nicely. You shouldn¡¯t bully my nephew, you know."

    Her words made Jiang Taiping even more ufortable. He knew Thunder Emissary Cao¡¯s sister loved nothing more than stirring trouble and watching her brother squirm.

    "Don¡¯t worry. The real culprit must be someone else. After the selection is over, we will handle it. We won¡¯t let this affect the Thunder Department¡¯s reputation," Jiang Taiping assured her.

    "You''re right, the real culprit might indeed be someone else. Lu Yao, this boy, he looks so pure and righteous." Thunder Emissary Cao¡¯s eyes twinkled briefly before she gracefully departed.

    "Liu Mumu, you may leave as well." Governor Jiang gestured, signaling the other celestial officers to withdraw as well.

    Liu Mumu cast a long, meaningful nce at Yun Xiao before turning to leave.

    Soon, only Yun Xiao and the Jiang Family remained.

    Governor Jiang¡¯s gaze suddenly became as vast as the ocean, pressing heavily upon Yun Xiao.

    "Governor Jiang, rest assured, I bear you no grudge, and as long as I live, Jiang Heqing will not die," Yun Xiao dered.

    Beside him, Jiang Heqing¡¯s eyes shimmered with a violet light, and she too, offered a slight smile.

    "Something this big happened in the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, someone must die to close the case," Governor Jiang stated gravely.

    Yun Xiao nodded. "To save both me and your daughter, Dongfang Yong¡¯s death was justified."

 Chapter 558: A Dead End

    Chapter 558: A Dead End

    After the deaths of Zhao Danming and Chen Yu, the remaining four Arbiters of Sky Soaring City no longer headed to the Nine Thunders Arena together.

    Governor Jiang fell silent for a moment before speaking to Yun Xiao, "I actually see great potential in you, hoping we all have a bright future ahead."

    After saying this, he left with his beautiful daughters.

    Meanwhile, Liu Mumu waited at the entrance of the western wing.

    Following Governor Jiang''s departure, Liu Mumu stood outside the door, her expression cold, watching Yun Xiao adjust his Arbiter armor.

    "What did you administer to Jiang Heqing?" Liu Mumu inquired.

    "Rx, it''s just to make her obedient temporarily; it won''t kill her," Yun Xiao replied after finishing his adjustments, walking towards her. "Didn''t you hear Governor Jiang? He and his family are bound for a splendid future together with us."

    "Bullshit!" Liu Mumu shook her head. "You don''t understand him at all! To meddle with his daughter is to provoke his wrath. When his core interests are threatened, he will retaliate mercilessly. Today he was only subdued because Thunder Emissary Cao was present, and for the sake of preserving his reputation..."

    "I know." Yun Xiao nodded."Then why y with fire?" Liu Mumu urgently looked at him and continued, "I know you possess supreme talent, but even if they use Miss Yu to threaten you, couldn''t you just bear it and focus on growing stronger? Why must you be so ruthless?"

    "Master, I''m running out of time," Yun Xiao took a deep breath, "To save more people, I must kill. I''ve been waiting for someone to cross my path. Whoever it is, dies first."

    "You..." Tears rimmed Liu Mumu''s eyes as she gazed at the young man, at a loss for words.

    "Master, I''m still waiting for you to tell me everything about Lu An," Yun Xiao said, passing her and walking outside.

    Liu Mumu, startled, clenched her fists tightly, her gaze dimming as she silently lowered her head.

    Outside, Blue Star popped out in Yun Xiao''s arms and remarked, "Speaking of which, we''ve taken his little daughter, and this old fool is so anxious, why don''t you just directly demand the Boundary Defining Divine Needle?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "Everyone has their limits, especially someone like me now, a desperate fugitive with no substantial backing. I''m just making Jiang Taiping give up Dongfang Yong for now¡ªhe can tolerate that. But if we cross his current threshold, the tacit understanding between us will copse. This old man would forsake his daughter and still seek my death."

    Human nature had its boundaries, and through keen observation and understanding of human expressions, Yun Xiao had grasped where Jiang Taiping''s limity.

    Cross that line, and the fangs came out! This, in fact, was like the demonstrations of power and the gambits among beasts in the forest.

    "What will you do next?" Blue Star asked, a twist to his lips.

    "To make Jiang Taiping tolerate me more, I need to push his boundaries higher and suppress his limits lower. The only way to achieve this is by elevating my own status, so he no longer sees me as a mere fugitive," Yun Xiao exined.

    After speaking, he nced back at Liu Mumu.

    Liu Mumu would lead him alone to the Nine Thunders Arena.

    The selection for the Immortal Tournament offered Yun Xiao the best opportunity to raise his standing!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After exiting the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, Governor Jiang hurriedly took his daughters to a secret chamber in the Hall of Soaring Thunder.

    "Dad! He used his Life Sigil, turning it into an eye on his forehead! Qingqing was enchanted by this eye, utterly bewitched," Jiang Haiyan said as soon as they entered, her eyes slightly reddened with urgency.

    "An eye on the forehead? It seems Lu Qian and Sun Xiaoqi were also afflicted by this soul-controlling technique," Governor Jiang noted, his brow furrowing as he looked at Jiang Heqing.

    "How are they doing?" Jiang Haiyan asked anxiously.

    "I''ll have someone check, but they''re probably just like Qingqing, revering Lu Yao above all else, with no impact on their daily routines. It''s simr to the mind-control of the All Life Devouring Gu," Governor Jiang replied coldly.

    "All Life Devouring Gu? I haven''t heard of it," Jiang Haiyan blinked in confusion.

    Governor Jiang nced at her and cautioned, "Don''t mention these three words outside; they are taboo in the Thunder Department."

    "Understood," Jiang Haiyan nodded seriously.

    "I''ll see if there''s a way to break this spell," Governor Jiang said as he approached Jiang Heqing.

    "Dad, hurry, the selection is about to start," Jiang Haiyan urged.

    "No rush, with thousands ofbatants, the battle order is randomly decided; you might not fight this afternoon."

    Governor Jiang waved her off, suggesting she leave first. He stayed in the dark chamber with Jiang Heqing for about fifteen minutes.

    "How is it?" When Governor Jiang opened the door, Jiang Haiyan quickly asked.

    Governor Jiang shook his head, squinting his eyes thoughtfully, "This boy''s talents are no ordinary affair."

    "Dad, you mean he''s not a joke?" Jiang Haiyan pursed her lips.

    "How could he be a joke?" Governor Jiang paused, meaningfully adding, "Every corner of the Thunder Department is searching for someone who looks like Lu Yao, and so far, they''ve found no one."

    Hearing this, disbelief crept over Jiang Haiyan''s pretty face. "Could it be that the incident at the Thunder Immortal Formation is actually rted to Lu Yao?"

    "From what I see, it''s very likely."

    After Governor Jiang spoke, he gazed outside and remarked dryly, "It''s quite ridiculous, everyone and their mothers are secretly mocking General Cao''s blunder."

    "No wonder this fellow is so excessive. And yet you endured," Jiang Haiyan mused, recalling the recent scene with a sense of unease.

    To make the deception believable, that boy had nearly stripped them bare, inevitably leading to intimate contact, leaving the sisters half-convinced and half-doubting, the memory vivid and troubling.

    "I suspect he has no powerful backers, but he possesses some unique fortune," Jiang Taiping suddenly said.

    "If that''s the case, why not just kill him and take his treasures?" Jiang Haiyan bit her lip.

    Jiang Taiping turned back to nce at Jiang Heqing and sighed. "This young man is ruthless. We should have decisively eliminated him at the start. Now, it''s not so simple to do."

    Hearing this, a hard, ufortable lump formed in Jiang Haiyan''s throat.

    "Dad, what do we do now? Two Arbiters died in the Hall of Soaring Thunder, we need to close this case quickly," Jiang Haiyan said anxiously.

    "How can we close it? To protect Qingqing and to give General Cao a chance to <em>redeem</em> his honor, we might really have to sacrifice the son of Dongfang Sheng," Jiang Taiping said softly.

    At the mention of General Cao, Jiang Haiyan knew that killing Yun Xiao before people recognized his true talents would deprive General Cao of a chance to vindicate himself!

    "Dongfang Yong¡­" Jiang Haiyan thought of him, her heart in turmoil. This man was like a shadow, always following her from their childhood, responding to her every call. She was fully aware of how devoted and loving he was towards her.

    "Dad, Dongfang Sheng only has this one son. Would he agree to this sacrifice?" Jiang Haiyan asked with concern.

    Governor Jiang did not reply but pointed outside, saying, "He''s here."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Sure enough, Dongfang Sheng, dressed in a ck and white robe, entered with his head bowed.

    "Take your sister and wait next door," Governor Jiang instructed.

    "Yes," Jiang Haiyan bit her lip, unable to meet the eyes of Dongfang Sheng beside her.

    After the two sisters left, Dongfang Sheng''s eyes were red as he knelt down with a thud and began to knock his forehead on the ground before Governor Jiang, his face bloody from the impacts.

    "The times force our hands; your pleading is futile." Governor Jiang pulled Dongfang Sheng to his feet, looking into his eyes, and said solemnly, "Dongfang, on the path of Immortality, we are often not masters of our own fate. You should understand this."

    "I only beg you, Governor, to give my son a chance at life!" Tears fell from Dongfang Sheng¡¯s eyes.

    "How can I do that?" Governor Jiang asked.

    "I heard General Cao controls the initial rounds of the battle sequence. I beg you to help arrange for my son to face Lu Yao in the first round. Between them, one must die. If so, let my son have a chance to fight for his life!" Dongfang Sheng''s eyes zed with fervor.

    After hearing Dongfang Sheng''s plea, Governor Jiang remained silent, not uttering a word.

    "Lu Yao is alone; he won''t suspect that the battle sequence can be manipted. He''ll think it''s just a coincidence. If my son can seize the chance to kill him instantly, Qingqing will also be safe," Dongfang Sheng urged urgently.

    "Dongfang." Governor Jiang sighed and shook his head. "Nearly 10,000 arepeting, with the first round alone involving 5,000 battles. Do you realize how low their chances are of facing each other? If you think Lu Yao is a fool, he''ll think the same of you."

    "Uh¡­" Dongfang Sheng stepped back, his face a mask of despair.

    He looked at Governor Jiang, his eyes brimming with bleak tears. "I''ve followed you for 200 years, served you for 200 years..."

    "I know!" Governor Jiang took a deep breath and said to Dongfang Sheng, "This situation is a dead end; stop struggling."

    "Yes." Dongfang Sheng lowered his head.

    "Look at me," Governor Jiang instructed, lifting his chin and cing his hands on Dongfang Sheng''s shoulders. "Today, you sacrifice one son to secure our prosperous path under General Cao. When I retire, I guarantee you a position as a Thunder Emissary."

    "Governor¡­!" Dongfang Sheng''s body shook. A glimmer of hope slowly appeared in his dull eyes.

    "Go now, spend time with him. After the first round of selections this evening, I will close the case," Governor Jiang said.

    "Yes!" Dongfang Sheng took a deep breath and turned resolutely to leave.

    Outside the Hall of Soaring Thunder, a young man in ck still stood, his face flushed red.

    "Son," Dongfang Sheng emerged from inside.

    "Dad, how did it go?" Dongfang Yong''s gaze was fierce. "Rest assured, just give me the chance, and he won''t even have time to speak. After I kill him, Qingqing will be safe, and you can close this dead man''s case!"

    "I trust your strength," Dongfang Sheng patted Dongfang Yong''s shoulder, speaking earnestly, "Son, I know your talent has always been the best in Sky Soaring City. Ever since you were young, in every duel, you''ve deliberately lost to please Governor Jiang''s daughter, to win her favor. You''vein low for 20 years, just to show your true prowess in the Thunder Department today, to release the brilliance that''s always been yours."

    "Dad¡­" Dongfang Yong''s eyes darkened as he listened, truly, he had been the best, yet he had willingly yed the lesser for so many years, bearing much grievance.

    What choice did he have?

    His father was second inmand!

    How could he outshine the governor''s daughter?

    "But, you don''t have to worry about closing the case anymore! There''s no need to fight to the death with Lu Yao at the Nine Thunders Arena," Dongfang Sheng said, patting his shoulder with augh.

    "Why?" Seeing his fatherughing, Dongfang Yong was somewhat puzzled¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 559: Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings!

    Chapter 559: Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings!

    Dongfang Sheng had a sly grin as he ryed histest scheming to his son, Dongfang Yong. "I''ve just had a word with Governor Jiang. We''ve devised a clever n to deal with Lu Yao, but for now, the details must remain our secret. You just keep fighting as normal. After the first round of selections, we''ll capture Lu Yao and bring him to justice."

    "Really?" Dongfang Yong asked, his voice tingling with excitement.

    "Of course," Dongfang Sheng chuckled. "What use would the Celestial Court have for the Thunder Department if a desperate fugitive with no background could wreak havoc with just a few tricks?"

    "That''s more like it!" Dongfang Yong felt a sweep of relief clear all the anger and frustration from his heart. Heughed heartily, then added thoughtfully, "Zhao Danming and Chen Yu can rest easy now."

    "Indeed," Dongfang Sheng said, pping his son on the shoulder. "Their parents are both Rank 6 Judicial Immortals. How could their deaths possibly go unpunished? Come, let¡¯s head to the Nine Thunders Arena and let your true brilliance shine."

    "Right!" Dongfang Yong''s heart surged with fervor.

    "But remember," Dongfang Sheng cautioned earnestly, "keep the details of the case to yourself. It''s all strategic nning; no need to spread the word."

    "Don''t worry, Dad, I''m not three years old anymore," Dongfang Yong replied with augh.

    "Mhm. Yeah, almost 30 years old now..." Dongfang Sheng watched him with a smile, his heart aching.?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "The Nine Thunders Arena is just ahead," Liu Mumu shouted over the thunderous roars of lightning, pointing into the distance.

    Yun Xiao followed her gaze to the horizon where endless clouds of thunder rolled. Nine dense clusters of storm clouds, arranged in the formation of the Nine Pces, floated between the sacrednd of the Thunder Department and the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    Each cloud was a vast expanse of booming thunder and countless lightning serpents, making the world around them perpetually loud. Conversations had to be shouted to be heard.

    "So many people!" Yun Xiao eximed as he looked around. At least tens of thousands were heading to the arena at the same time¡ªeither high ranking Immortals or Arbiter prodigies, the elite of the entire Thunder Department.

    Only someone of Dongfang Sheng''s rank, a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer or higher, was entitled to witness the battle. For ny-nine percent of the popce in the Thunder Department, even a nce was a privilege they did not possess.

    Liu Mumu, while drawing closer to the towering thunderclouds, shared with Yun Xiao, "Close to 10,000 Arbiter prodigies will join this selection."

    "Ten thousand? That''s indeed a lot," Yun Xiao remarked, recalling that Sky Soaring City, vast as it was, only had five slots avable.

    "Not so many, really; there were more in thest selection," Liu Mumu responded with a smirk. "But of these 10,000 participants, at least 8,000 are from the core ranks of the Thunder Department. Those like you,ing from a regional frontier city, number less than 2,000."

    "Over 8,000 from the core ranks? They must be superior, right?" Yun Xiao asked casually.

    "Every selection by the Thunder Department picks nine, who then go to the Divine Gateway at the Celestial Court, under the eyes of 100 officials, topete for the title of Supreme Immortal Champion," Liu Mumu exined. She pondered a moment and then added, "In my memory, at least for thest five sessions, the nine talents chosen were all from the Thunder Department. There have been only a few Arbiters from region frontier cities who''ve made it to the Divine Gateway through history."

    The Divine Gateway was the sole hub of the Celestial Court. It was the central jewel of the Great Dao Celestial Realm! To go there was an honor of staggering proportions.

    Yun Xiao asked in confusion, "Aren''t Arbiters a part of the Thunder Department? How many Thunder Departments are there in the Celestial Court?"

    "There''s only one Thunder Department," Liu Mumu replied, giving Yun Xiao a look. "You ask these questions to others, and they might take you for an illicit ascender." Yun Xiao scratched his head with a harmlessugh.

    Liu Mumu did not pursue the matter further and exined, "Since the Arbiters belong to the Thunder Department, and there''s only one Thunder Department in the Celestial Court, it dominates the final selections at the Divine Gateway, iming nine spots."

    "How many spots in total?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "There are 16 Arbiter talents from the entire Celestial Court that can go to the Divine Gateway. The other sevene from various other departments, immortal ns, and noble families. Basically, aside from our nine from the Thunder Department, the other seven are just honorary Arbiters, posted in regional frontier cities to enhance their rank and reputation," Liu Mumu said with evident distaste, resigned to the reality of the system.

    "How capable are these seven each time?" Yun Xiao asked casually.

    "Truthfully, since the Thunder Department is just the Celestial Court''s penal department and its resources are limited, those seven are often the best of the best from all parts of the Celestial Court, usually stronger than those from our own core," Liu Mumu admitted with some frustration. "I''m not ashamed to tell you, we haven''t had a Supreme Immortal Champion from the Thunder Department in the past five tournaments."

    "Damn, the Immortal Tournament for Arbiters ends up being won by others?" Yun Xiao expressed his surprise.

    "In fact, in thest five tournaments, the Thunder Department hasn''t even ced third. Each of those other seven participants are fiercer than thest," Liu Mumu eximed.

    It made sense; these honorary Arbiters likely held much higher real statuses.

    By now, the two had stepped into the Nine Thunders Arena, surrounded by the nine immense thunderclouds!

    Tens of thousands had gathered here!

    These were thepeting Arbiters and their parents were Heavenly Officers of Rank 6 and above!

    The scene was incredibly solemn and vast.

    Awe and trepidation filled Yun Xiao as he arrived, his eyes quickly capturing two sights of immense importance.

    Above their heads loomed a vast tform of white jade, oppressive in its grandeur, hanging over the tens of thousands of Immortals gathered below. From it, bolts of lightning extended like ropes, tethering the tform to the nine thunderclouds swirling above.

    "This is the Celestial Lightning tform. Soon, 100 of the Thunder Department''s Immortals will grace it to witness the battles," Liu Mumu exined, her voice tinged with longing.

    "The hundred Immortals? Are they the most powerful in this ce?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Yes. Each one a ruler in their own right." Liu Mumu nodded. "I wonder if today the Summer Thunder Duke will make an appearance."

    "Does Governor Jiang have the standing to be up there?" Yun Xiao asked offhandedly.

    "He hasn''t been officially promoted to Rank 4 Thunder Emissary yet. So, he''ll have to watch from below today. Thunder Emissary Cao, who helped you, and her brother, the Summer Thunder Duke, both belong to that elite hundred."

    Essentially, the status of a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court was the threshold to ascend the Celestial Lightning tform.

    It was a world rigid with hierarchy!

    To ascend in rank, whether they were various Immortal officials or Arbiter prodigies, everyone''s eyes burned with fervent zeal, their spirits brimming with the desire to shine today after 30 years of arduous cultivation!

    "And what is that?" Yun Xiao pointed towards a structure behind the Celestial Lightning tform, where a towering wall of white gold stood suspended, its nk surface shining with a severe and solemn light.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Many young faces kept turning towards it, their eyes alight with dreams.

    "The Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings," Liu Mumu patiently exined, knowing Yun Xiao was an outsider. "Didn''t I just tell you about the 10,000 who willpete through nine battles to select nine Arbiters for the Divine Gateway? After the Thunder Department''s selection concludes, the names of those nine will shine on the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings, revered until the next Immortal Tournament."

    "No substantial rewards besides the honor?" Yun Xiao voiced his primary concern.

    "Do you know what reward in the Celestial Court is most coveted?" Liu Mumu asked.

    Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Promotion and elevation in rank!" Liu Mumu''s gaze intensified as she looked at him, "Under normal celestial rules, a Rank 9 Arbiter Initiate like you would take five years to be promoted to an official Arbiter, and reaching Rank 8 by the age of 30 years old would be considered exceptional. But..."

    She gestured towards the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings. "The Thunder Department grants extraordinary rewards to those who represent it at the Divine Gateway and shine there. So, those who make it onto the rankings are immediately promoted to Rank 6!"

    Reaching Rank 6 before 30 years old? This was beyond Yun Xiao''s expectations.

    "This new incentive was set by the Summer Thunder Duke after the recent disappointing performances at the Divine Gateway," Liu Mumu exined with a shake of her head and a smile. "The Immortal Tournament is a fierce leap in ranks for those who excel. Besides the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings, the Thunder Department mandates that the highest rank for Arbiters under 30 is a Rank 7 Sky Protector."

    "Yes, and you¡¯ve been at it for years, only reaching Rank 8..." Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle.

    "Laugh all you want, I¡¯m one of the quick ones! Sometimes, climbing the ranks is even tougher than advancing in cultivation," Liu Mumu retorted, then gazed back at the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings, sighing, "The nine strongest talents of the Thunder Department, once listed, will rank as high as my father. Even if it''s a nominal rank without real power, it''s enough. My father spent centuries bing a Rank 6 Judicial Immortal."

    Rank 6 included Judicial Immortals, Administrative Immortals, and Manor Immortals.

    "Not bad at all. That¡¯s just the status I need," Yun Xiao said, his eyes gleaming with determination.

    "So, you really are aiming for one of those nine spots?" Liu Mumu wasn''t surprised by Yun Xiao''s ambition but cautioned him, "You do have the potential, but remember, among these 10,000 contenders, many already hold the rank of Rank 7 Sky Protectors. For them, advancing to Rank 6 is just one step up. The talent from the core of the Thunder Department far surpasses that of Sky Soaring City. Some are even children of Rank 3 or 2 Heavenly Officers. Today is their best chance to showcase their capabilities for grand futures, so they''ll give it their all."

    Simply put, this was the best careerunchpad!

    It was apetition of face and future!

    Those who made it onto the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings today might one day be Ster Margraves or Sovereigns!

    And their parents? Let alone a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, even a Rank 3 Summer Thunder Duke like General Cao was formidable.

    Yun Xiao had only eliminated a few talented Arbiters from Sky Soaring City, but the real pinnacle of challengey in the Nine Thunders Arena!

    After hearing all this from Liu Mumu, Yun Xiao closed his eyes, feeling the raging wind and thunder around him.

    The fervent ambitions and spirited voices of 10,000 young prodigies echoed in his ears!

    The sacrednd of the Thunder Department was like a thunderous forge, firing up the blood and hearts of every genius Arbiter!

    Those formidable unknown adversaries, sheltered under the wings of high-ranking parents, were baring their sharp fangs to the world!

    Nine rounds of battle would determine the victor!

    "Master," Yun Xiao breathed deeply, slowly saying, "My ambition isn¡¯t just to make it on the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings."

    With his eyes wide open and his voice full of resolve, he dered, "I want the name Lu Yao to echo through the halls of the Divine Gateway and resound throughout the Celestial Court!"

 Chapter 560: Gem or Pig!

    Chapter 560: Gem or Pig!

    As thousands of Arbiter prodigies whispered among themselves on the Nine Thunder Arenas, suddenly, from all directions of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, over 100 blinding bolts of lightning shot forth!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Those 100 dazzling bolts of divine lightning morphed into Immortals, descending onto the revered seats of the Celestial Thunder tform!

    At that moment, the previously noisy scene fell into an eerie silence. The crowd held their breath in reverence, gazing up at the white jade tform ensnared by thousands of electric serpents, where the 100 Immortals had already taken their seats.

    They were figures of lofty grandeur, each cloaked in a sea of lightning. With each blink of their eyes, true thunder roared. They were adorned in regal, intricately crafted garments, their jewels and gemstones shing like the eyes of the storm.

    Even the appearance of one of these Immortals was enough to capture attention, let alone nearly 100 descending together!

    Indeed, their presence instantly overshadowed the entire arena!

    Without need for a reminder, following that brief moment of stillness, the 10,000 participants bowed in respect to these 100 Immortals.

    "Greetings, Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General!"

    "Greetings, Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General!""Greetings, Five Directions Barbaric Thunder Envoys!"

    "Greetings, Thunder Dukes and Thunder Duchesses!"

    "Greetings to all the Chief Military Thunder Emissaries!"

    A wave of solemn voices rose from across the battlefield.

    From the reverent cries of the crowd, it was clear that aside from the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign, all other senior Thunder Department officials had descended in their true forms, highlighting the importance the Thunder Department ced on this selection for the Immortal Tournament.

    Nine of the 10,000 participants here would be joining seven other honorary arbiters at the Celestial Court''s Divine Gateway to vie for ultimate glory!

    To be one of those nine was not just a step forward, but to have already won more than half the battle!

    So, for the Arbiters of the Thunder Department, the Nine Thunder Arena was not just the main event, but over eighty percent of the Immortal Tournament.

    The Divine Gateway was merely the final showdown!

    With the arrival of these 100 Immortals, the selection was about to officially begin.

    While the crowd still bowed in worship, upon that Celestial Thunder tform appeared a tall, alluring woman in a split violet gown, captivating the masses before her.

    Upon her arrival, every man, young and old, found their eyes irresistibly drawn to her.

    "She''s the Chief Military Thunder Emissary, Cao Shuo."

    The name Cao Shuo might sound masculine, but within the ranks of the Thunder Department, most knew this name belonged to a charmingly electric woman, whose fame for both her allure and strict adherence tow had spread far across the Thunder Department.

    Her astonishing talents had earned her a nickname¡ªBig Thunder Mama. Of course, no one would call her by this name unless they had a death wish.

    ¡°Is Thunder Emissary Cao Shuo presiding over this selection for the Thunder Department?¡±

    With that, everyone understood.

    This was normal; among these top 100 Immortals of the Thunder Department, the lowest ranking were the Rank 4 Thunder Emissaries.

    There she stood, enveloped in celestial lightning, her gown fluttering, her elegant legs shimmering with phosphorescence in the air, instantly bing the focal point of all gazes.

    Without any superfluous words, she formally dered, "All heed thesemands, the selection for the Thunder Department begins now. The order of battle will be randomly decided, and victory or defeat will be judged by the Thunder Immortal Formation. Those called up must fight within 30 breaths, or be deemed defeated."

    From this brief promation by Cao Shuo, one could discern the ethos of the Celestial Court''s Thunder Department: simple efficiency, swift as lightning, decisive in execution.

    After Cao Shuo spoke, two changes urred in the Nine Thunders Arena.

    The first was this: the nine vast clusters of thunder clouds around suddenly burst into deafening roars, billions of lightning serpents splitting and racing through the air!

    These nine clusters of thunderclouds split into nearly 5,000 smaller thunderclouds, each about 1,500 meters in diameter, encircling the 10,000 participants.

    These smaller thunderclouds, numbering close to 5,000, formed the individual battlefields for the duels.

    Fighting atop these thunderclouds, not only must one beware the opponent but also the constant threat of lightning strikes¡ªa formidable test for every contestant.

    It was said that these lightning serpents of the Nine Thunders Arena were part of the celestial Thunder Immortal Formation.

    With nearly 5,000 thunderclouds splitting apart, the battlefield was set.

    Next, the battle sequence was to be determined.

    Instantly, all eyes turned toward the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The board burst forth with nine different colors of lightning serpents, which, as they writhed, each formed a name on either side of the board!

    "Nie Yun, Feng Qi!" At this moment, Cao Shuo''s voice was no longernguid or flirtatious, but rather solemn, deadly, and full of vigor!

    As the names appeared, nine colors of lightning serpents dispersed and merged into a colossal numeral <em>one</em>!

    "Thundercloud One!" Cao Shuo''s voice echoed.

    No sooner had her words fallen than two figures from among the 10,000 participants dashed at breakneck speed to a thundercloud in the corner, fearful of exceeding the 30 breaths limit.

    Once on the fighting stage, there was no restriction on when to beginbat.

    And so, the selection battles of the Thunder Departmentmenced with Nie Yun and Feng Qi.

    The Thunder Rankings did not pause; the lightning serpents twisted and formed two new names, then solidified <em>Thundercloud Two</em>.

    Two more figures took the stage, ready forbat.

    And so it continued!

    The Thunder Rankings constantly announced the battle sequence; each name had a chance to resound throughout the Nine Thunders Arena. The moment they heard their names, the eyes of the participants welled up with tears, their hearts aze with pride¡ªthis was a ce of honor, and to be an Arbiter was an honor in and of itself!

    This method of announcement was not quick, but precisely because of this, the battles across various thunderclouds wereyered, giving each participant a chance to draw much attention during a particr time frame.

    It was still the first round; some had quickly finished their battles, while others watched the Thunder Rankings intently, their eyes fiery, holding their breath in anticipation.

    The tension was palpable!

    Above on the Celestial Thunder tform, seeing that the selection battle was proceeding smoothly, Cao Shuo, no longer needed for the moment, swayed her waist back to her honored seat, watching the battles below with a smile.

    Behind her, at a higher position, sat a bald Immortal in heavy armor, oppressive like a mountain of thunder.

    It was Cao Shuo''s older brother, General Cao.

    General Cao''s massive hands rested on the armrests, seated there, eyes closed, resting yet imposing without anger.

    He seemed disinclined to speak; however, sitting in a seat of equal stature beside him was a man of a starkly different demeanor¡ªthin and tall, dressed in white and gold brocade, with a very pale face and an elegant posture. Though a refined gentleman, his somewhat thin lips gave him a slightly sinister look.

    He raised an eyebrow and nced at General Cao beside him, a small smirk curling his lips, casually inquiring, "General Cao, I hear your adopted son will alsopete. What''s his name? I¡¯d like to know, so we can all marvel at him."

    His words caused a twitch in the cheeks of the high-ranking Immortals of the Thunder Department nearby, their eyes alight with meaningful nces and their mouths twitching into slight smiles.

    "Lightning Lord Bo Hong." Cao Shuo turned her head back with a yfulugh. "My brother prefers not to speak with you. I¡¯ll let you know when the timees."

    "Oh?" Bo Hong, the pale, somewhat sinister-looking man, chuckled. "Then I''ll be in your debt, Miss Thunder Emissary."

    "It¡¯s nothing." Cao Shuo pursed her lips. "I''m just afraid that you might be so intimidated by his talent that you''ll never dare to be sarcastic in front of my brother again."

    At this, Bo Hong paused, thenughed along with the others.

    "I''m looking forward to it." Bo Hong nced at the stern General Cao whose eyes were closed. "After all, old Cao is famous for his discerning eye. I''m just not sure if he¡¯s spotted a gem or a pig this time?"

    Laughter broke out among the group once more.

    This small episode before the Thunder Department''s selection had now be a joke shared over meals and tea.

    It was all in good fun, though General Cao''s visibly flustered and somewhatical demeanor did not escape notice.

    As Rank 3 Heavenly Officers, those aiming to climb higher up thedder to the true pinnacle of power within the Thunder Department were inevitably rivals.

    Among them, General Cao and Bo Hong, both scions of distinguished lineages and young achievers, were hot contenders for the future position of the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General.

    As everyoneughed, the veins on General Cao''s neck, wrapped by lightning serpents, bulged visibly, his expression growing dark.

    "Hey, just a reminder, my brother¡¯s temper is short. Watch out or he might just thrash you on the Celestial Thunder tform," Cao Shuo added with augh.

    "Oh, how scary!" Bo Hong quickly waved his hand, his face still wearing a grin. "s, not all of us here are lucky enough to adopt an Immemorial Thunder Seed holder as a foster son!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    About half an hour had passed, and already thousands of participants had joined the fray!

    All around, figures shed atop the thunderclouds, their forms blurred by the fervor ofbat.

    Though only the beginning, the Thunder Department''s selection battle was fiercely underway, filled with the sounds of thunderous explosions and howling winds.

    Some surged forward with songs of battle, while others dimly exited the stage!

    Nearly three decades of arduous cultivation were being judged in this single event.

    In a corner, Yun Xiao still awaited his name.

    After Blue Star and Red Moon had consumed the treasures and True Immortal Jades of Zhao Danming and Chen Yu, they had produced three more Tri Heaven Sariras.

    Yun Xiao''s spirit had already reached the Essence Manifestation Realm, but he needed to have his cultivation catch up.

    He could choose to naturally absorb the energy from the Celestial Sourcecore, but it would take significantly longer, unsuitable for immediate needs.

    About 15 minutester, Yun Xiao exhaled a deep breath. After absorbing the Tri Heaven Sariras, the Sacred Wheel within his Dantian had expanded further, resembling a colossal tinum disc radiating with vitality.

    "Mid Essence Manifestation Realm."

    After his spirit manifested, Yun Xiao had broken through two stages from the Establishment True Immortal Realm. He was breaking through quickly, but it came at the cost of a lot of resources.

    "When will I finally have a real backing? Relying solely on killing for loot is far too slow here in the Celestial Court," Yun Xiao mused to himself. His progress was heaven-defying, yet he still found it too slow.

    Of course, there was no immediate solution to his problem. The moreplex the society, the harder it was to gain powerful connections.

    To find someone new who shared one''s goals and to trust each otherpletely was extremely difficult!

    Most rtionships were merely mutually exploitative.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao knew this, and so he adjusted his steps, adapting to each moment.

    Now out of money, he couldn''t rush things; he could only continue to meditate, preparing for the battle ahead.

    Just then, a party from Sky Soaring City arrived. It was Jiang Taiping, Dongfang Sheng, and several others.

    Among the young ones, the Jiang sisters and Dongfang Yong came together.

    Dongfang Yong seemed much calmer now.

    The moment he saw Yun Xiao, he gave a cold smile, then quickly suppressed it.

    "Governor Jiang, Secretary Dong," Liu Mumu greeted them.

    "Have the names of these three kids not been called yet?" Governor Jiang, arrivingte, asked.

    "Not yet," Liu Mumu replied, relieving them.

    Then, they grouped into three small clusters, waiting in silence. Dongfang Sheng and his son were on one side. Yun Xiao and Liu Mumu were on another. And everyone else was on another!

    In the corner, Dongfang Yong nced over at Yun Xiao and suddenly said, "Father, to be honest, I think it would be best to pair me with him."

    "Why?" Dongfang Sheng asked.

    "It''ll make it easier for me to kill him. Once he''s dead, he can''t stir up any trouble," Dongfang Yong said coldly.

    "We can''t trouble General Cao over such a trivial matter," Dongfang Sheng replied.

    "Understood. The scoundrel gets to live a little longer," Dongfang Yong remarked.

    "Indeed," Dongfang Sheng nodded.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao was continuing his cultivation when the Thunder Rankings rumbled.

    "Lu Yao!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 561: Azure Lightning Pursuit, Twin Soul Strike!

    Chapter 561: Azure Lightning Pursuit, Twin Soul Strike!

    Yun Xiao opened his eyes, stood up, and looked over to the Celestial Thunder Rankings with a calm heart.

    On the ranking, the nine-colored lightning serpents disyed the name <em>Lu Yao</em>.

    On the right side, another cluster of lightning snakes formed a name in three characters.

    "Dongfang Yong?" Yun Xiao paused briefly.

    "Lu Yao!" Governor Jiang, startled by these two names, his face quivered with fear as he hurriedly approached Yun Xiao. Turning his back to Dongfang Sheng and his son, he spoke earnestly, "I swear, I''ve yed no tricks with the order of this battle."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow at him.

    "You should know, I have no reason to do such a thing," Governor Jiang gritted his teeth.

    Yun Xiao pursed his lips and replied, "Don¡¯t worry, I don¡¯t mind."

    "You don¡¯t mind?" Governor Jiang was taken aback. He wanted to say that Dongfang Yong had secrets he was hiding. But seeing Yun Xiao¡¯s demeanor, he swallowed his words."Governor Jiang, we are friends." After saying this, Yun Xiao headed towards one of the thunderclouds.

    Nearby, Dongfang Yong approached his father in excitement.

    "Dad!"

    "Governor..." Dongfang Sheng suddenly burst into tears. He patted his son''s shoulder and said, "Go and fight. I will go thank Governor Jiang!"

    "Alright!" Dongfang Yong''s eyes were dark as ink. "In the Thunder Department¡¯s selection, descendants of noble families usually don¡¯t kill unless old blood feuds are involved!"

    With that, he rushed into one of the thunderclouds like a gust of wind.

    "Governor!" Dongfang Sheng hurried over, his eyes red.

    "Hush." Governor Jiang coughed softly, leaned close to Dongfang Sheng, and whispered, "We have beenrades in life and death for many years. How could I let your son die wronged? This time, I did my best."

    "Mhm!!" Dongfang Sheng''s face turned red with gratitude, his emotions clearly etched across his face.

    Governor Jiang spoke quietly, "Just keep it to yourself. No one else must know."

    "Understood!" Dongfang Sheng nodded, turned away, his gaze burning with fervor as he watched his son, whom he had meticulously raised for 30 years, finally step onto the battlefield of glory he had always craved!

    It was his first battle, and he faced an enemy marked by life and death!

    This duel, in truth, was a minor spectacle in the Thunder Department''s vast arena, attracting little attention initially.

    The 10,000 participants and a host of high ranking officials focused instead on the renowned prodigies of the Thunder Department itself.

    However, just then, a voice seemingly gentle yet piercing resonated across the field from the Celestial Thunder tform.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, please direct your attention to the young man named Lu Yao over at Thundercloud 1,001. He''s been acknowledged as my brother¡¯s adopted son. Let''s all take good care of him from now on."

    This announcement stunned everyone. They all knew the speaker was Cao Shuo!

    The once overlooked arena instantly captured nearly all the attendees'' attention!

    Everyone stared at Yun Xiao with intrigue. They couldn¡¯t mistake him for Dongfang Yong; Yun Xiao¡¯s face was too well known in the Thunder Department!

    "It really is him!"

    "Is Thunder Emissary Cao airing her brother''s dirtyundry in public?"

    "My heavens, she¡¯s trying to disgrace her brother in front of everyone!"

    Realizing the situation, the crowd couldn''t help butugh and cry at the same time.

    "This is going to be interesting."

    "Thrilling!"

    The masses first looked at Yun Xiao, then back at the Celestial Thunder tform.

    Although they couldn¡¯t see General Cao''s face, it was clear he was probably as red as a beet. Moreover, faintughter could be heard emanating from the usually solemn Celestial Thunder tform¡­

    "General Cao today bit off more than he could chew and ended up swallowing a bitter pill, spitting out all the prestige he had umted over the years."

    "He was too hasty, if it were me, I would at least let the kid manifest his spirit first."

    "I heard it was a new Thunder Emissary named Jiang Taiping who tripped him up!"

    "Tsk tsk, looks like Jiang Taiping''s career has hit a dead end!"

    Whispers spread like ants crawling into ears.

    Governor Jiang, hearing these words, could only close his eyes and clench his fists tightly.

    "Father..." Jiang Haiyan finally understood the predicament her father faced.

    With Cao Shuo causing chaos, she suddenly realized that she was actually hoping for Yun Xiao to dazzle everyone!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Lu Yao! Lu Yao!" Jiang Heqing appeared bewitched, her eyes wildly calling out, utterly obsessed.

    In the spotlight, Dongfang Yong felt as if he were dreaming.

    "I really should thank you. Without your little stunt, I would''ve never received so much attention in my entire life!" Dongfang Yong said with a bizarre expression.

    "You''re wee. After all, we all know you''re pretty mediocre otherwise." Yun Xiao stood amidst a whirlwind of thunder, yet he seemed calm and detached, as if oblivious to the surrounding chaos.

    His words shattered Dongfang Yong''s defenses. He was unwilling to be mediocre. But his circumstances had forced him to remain low-key. He was merely concealing his own sharpness!

    "Clueless as ever, even when facing death..." Dongfang Yong shook his head inwardly. He found it pointless to waste words on such a person.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He loosened his muscles, and his Immortal body erupted with the crackling thunder of a tiger or leopard. In an instant, his skin turned from white to tinum, his body like a divine weapon, surrounded by thousands of sharp edges.

    "A Martial Cultivator! Roughly at the Late Divine Self Realm!"

    With Dongfang Yong''s full exertion, many formidable beings discerned his true level of cultivation.

    He was stronger than Jiang Haiyan by a whole stage!

    At that moment, Dongfang Yong was d in his Arbiter Armor, resembling a war god.

    "Does anyone know how strong General Cao''s adopted son is?"

    "I heard he''s 27 years old and just entered the Essence Manifestation Realm."

    A collective smirk spread among the onlookers as they shook their heads.

    "Wow, he really is a <em>once-in-an-era talent</em>."

    Laughter rolled through the crowd.

    Dongfang Yong knew they were mocking Yun Xiao. Heughed as well. What a spectacle! A spectacle indeed! He had never received so much attention in his entire life.

    Seizing this moment of unparalleled glory, Dongfang Yong¡¯s expression turned cold, and he stretched out his hand, manifesting his spirit. A human-dragon hybrid coalesced beside him.

    "The Tyrant Dragon Spirit!"

    "I heard this young man hails from a regional city, possessing both innate talent and profound heritage."

    "He surely deserves a ce at the headquarters of the Thunder Department!"

    "His future is boundless!"

    The cheering swelled, sending waves of exhration through Dongfang Yong.

    This was the moment he had yearned for thirty years!

    "Lu Yao!" As a Martial Immortal, Dongfang Yong¡¯s hand shimmered with golden light, and a long spear adorned with golden dragon scales materialized in his palm, his aura explosively brilliant!

    This was the Arcane Sun Dragon Spear!

    Grasping the Arcane Sun Dragon Spear, Dongfang Yong moved, surging forward like a tinum storm towards Yun Xiao.

    His Tyrant Dragon Spirit, merging with his body, whirled around the spear! It was man, spirit, and spear unified!

    <em>THRUM! THRUM! THRUM! </em>With one thrust, his spear exploded eight times, the golden light dazzling.

    This was the Dongfang Family''s Celestial Martial Art, the Eightfold Dragon Chant!

    This spirit, this force, this will... In the eyes of the onlookers, this was the very embodiment of what a young Arbiter ought to be!

    Dongfang Yong''s attack truly drew a wave of admiration.

    "What a promising youth!"

    This simple praise made his brain swell with pride, his spear thrusting forward more swiftly, a blend of murderous intent and resentment coiling around him like a golden dragon biting at Yun Xiao!

    Before this golden storm, Yun Xiao appeared delicate and frail, as if he could be annihted in the next moment.

    Yet, as he gazed at the frenzied Dongfang Yong, his eyes held only serenity and a profound indifference.

    "In the path of the Immortals, baring your teeth is a precursor to death." Yun Xiao extended his hand, and an azure Sword Soul spread forth.

    Beside him, a spirit resembling him in a white robe slowly materialized.

    In the hand of this white-robed spirit appeared a sword, part of the spirit itself, exuding a pale azure hue and swirling with mist.

    "Azure Lightning Pursuit, Twin Soul Strike!" Yun Xiao murmured these words softly.

    The Azure Lightning Pursuit was a Palm Sword technique he learned at the Skyruler Immortal Manor. It was one of the most basic celestial techniques.

    And the Twin Soul Strike...

    At the moment Yun Xiao acted, his Creator Immortal spirit, like his shadow, moved with him.

    Its sword followed the trajectory of Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul perfectly, mirroring the evolution of his swordsmanship!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao¡¯s strike, swift as a blue lightning snake, exploded with a crack, and myriad fissures wreathed in blue lightning burst forth on the Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    Beside him, the element spirit, like a double image amidst the thunder and lightning, moved its sword in sync with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul. As it sliced through the air, it too generated streaks of pale azure lightning!

    The trajectory of this pale azure lightning mirrored that of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, creating a dual surge of electric light!

    Clearly, the lightning from the spirit¡¯s sword was not driven by celestial power!

    If one tried to observe the battle up close through astral projection, they would be able to distinctly feel how lethal this lightning was toward other spirits!

    As Yun Xiao executed this strike, the 10,000 onlookers had yet to react when suddenly, a stirring murmur arose from the Celestial Thunder tform.

    In a sh, it was a ze of sparks!

    There, Yun Xiao and his spirit executed the Twin Soul Strike, the sword true to its name, as swift and fierce as lightning, striking with utmost precision!

    It was one sword, and yet it was also two!

    <em>CRACKLE! </em>In just a blink, a of azure lightning encased Dongfang Yong''s golden dragon spear!

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>The sh between the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and the Arcane Sun Dragon Spear sent sparks flying and a piercing sound throughout the arena.

    "GAGHHH!"

    In the next instant, both Dongfang Yong and his spirit were overwhelmed by Yun Xiao''s sword.

    The pale azure lightning serpent sword light pierced through Dongfang Yong¡¯s Tyrant Dragon Spirit and swept across his body!

    The light in Dongfang Yong''s eyes and the arrogance on his face turned to sheer terror in that moment!

    "No¡­!" His eyes widened, staring at the young man enveloped in azure lightning.

    "Dongfang Yong, in death, you will carry the infamy of having in your sworn brothers. It was my arrangement¡ªno need to thank me."

    <em>SLASH! </em>Yun Xiao''s sword passed over Dongfang Yong. His Heaven Burial Sword Soul did not touch Dongfang Yong''s body.

    Dongfang Yong was unharmed physically! However, his gaze darkened with despair, dimming as hope faded.

    <em>THUD! </em>His body fell downwards.

    And there stood Yun Xiao alone atop the thundercloud, lifting his Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    As Yun Xiao raised that sword to the heavens, the Thunder Immortal Formation above roared to life. Billions of lightning bolts twisted and roiled, cascading down to illuminate him.

    Amidst this storm of electric serpents, Yun Xiao radiated with heroic spirit, his divine aura shining bright like a deity. He didn''t utter a single word. But with that one sword, he was literally forcing the elites of the Thunder Department to view him in a new light!

 Chapter 562: Sword of the Celestial Court!

    Chapter 562: Sword of the Celestial Court!

    At the center of one of the thunderclouds, a battle hade to an end, and a life had been lost.

    Just as Dongfang Yong had mentioned earlier, unless there was an old blood feud, deaths in these sorts ofpetitions were extraordinarily low.

    The Grand Dao Celestial Realm was a web ofplex social interactions, where rtionships and connections mattered greatly. Combat was typically just for sparring, and normally, no one wished to kill and create enemies.

    Unless, of course, sworn enemies met.

    Yet at that moment, few cared about Dongfang Yong''s demise.

    For an instant, the focus of the entire Nine Thunders Arena was solely on Yun Xiao. The looks directed at him shifted from initial mockery and contempt to a gradual freeze, bing rigid.

    Many were visibly ufortable.

    Some of the high ranking officials had realized something profound!

    ¡°This young one¡¯s spirit is peculiar.¡±¡°Yes, his spirit seems to act in tandem with his physical self, mirroring his techniques like a shadow, crafting an attack of both body and soul!¡±

    To these celestial schrs deeply versed in the study of spirits, this was unthinkable.

    Ordinary spirits had specific manifestations: leaving the body, showing form, attacking... They either clung to celestial weapons, amplified celestial power, or enhanced celestial spells.

    To see a spirit that mimicked the owner''s physical form, evolving soul-based attacks into celestial sword techniques, was unprecedented for them!

    Some young prodigies failed to see the significance, thinking little of it. Yet, their elders, the ones with deeper knowledge, looked on with grave expressions at the youth in white as he left the arena, deep in thought.

    ¡°This Lu Yao, his spirit isn¡¯t some Immemorial Thunder Seed, indeed it¡¯s the most inconsequential true-self spirit.¡±

    ¡°But his self-spirit can sense and control the Thunder Immortal Formation, even mimic his own techniques!¡±

    This was the objective conclusion reached amidst the deep contemtion of numerous powerful immortals.

    If the onlookers below could reach this conclusion, so could the 100 Immortals gathered on the Celestial Thunder tform, drawing them into deep discussion. They spoke, asionally ncing at General Cao.

    General Cao had long opened his eyes, his gaze charged slowly with electric currents, fixed on the youth in white armor. A slight smile yed upon his lips. Subtle though it was, it was a sufficient response.

    After all, Bo Hong next to him had already closed his mouth, his face ashen as if frosted over, looking more like a corpse.

    "Cao Sheng."

    Suddenly, from the highest point of the Celestial Thunder tform, a deep, aged, and weighty voice echoed¡ªa voice like an old bell, carrying the weight of years and a prating power that, even whispered, could stir the soul.

    General Cao''s face moved subtly. He quickly turned around, bowing respectfully towards the elevated figure, and said, "Supreme General, your humble servant is here."

    The Supreme General sat on the second highest seat of the Celestial Thunder tform, an elder d in a tinum robe. His hair was white, not withered but glowing with a tinum luster. tinum lightning snakes surged around him, encircling his entire body and partially veiling his face, revealing only a pair of bright golden eyes.

    His nose was as prominent as an eagle''s, and behind him, thunder intertwined as if forming a pair of wings.

    In the Thunder Department, only one could be honored as Supreme General¡ªthe Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General. He was one of the highest authorities within the Thunder Department, a figure of immense power and the right-hand man of the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign was usually at the Divine Gateway. So, in the Thunder Department headquarters, the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General wielded enormous authority.

    This position was the future that General Cao aspired to¡ªa true high official of the Celestial Court!

    Today, for the first time, the Supreme General spoke, and all the Immortals on the Celestial Thunder tform fell silent, reverently turning their gaze to the elder surrounded by tinum lightning.

    The Supreme General''s tone was serene, as if he was merely chatting with Cao Sheng. He said, "This child''s spirit has indeed done some things beyond ordinary belief."

    "Yes." General Cao nodded.

    "This kind of talent, how should one put it?" The Supreme General chuckled and shook his head. "It''s hard to say. The upper limit could be very high, the lower limit could be quite low. It remains to be seen."

    His words were ambiguous, and the crowd couldn''t discern his exact meaning, but they continued to listen.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Bo Hong, however, breathed a sigh of relief.

    Yun Xiao had performed notably, but the Supreme General had not directly praised him, which he could ept.

    After hearing this, Cao Sheng nodded and said, "Although it''s true that the one who can sense andmand thunder with his spirit is him, his spirit is indeed the Immemorial Thunder Seed."

    Here, Cao Sheng looked up seriously and added, "Nevertheless, the Thunder Department always wees any ambitious Arbiter. This child and I are fated, and no matter what, I will give him a chance to showcase his talents."

    Those present were somewhat surprised by his words.

    This was the Celestial Thunder tform, where nearly all of the 100 top Immortals of the Thunder Department were gathered!

    By saying this, Cao Sheng publicly dered his responsibility towards Yun Xiao.

    From now on, Yun Xiao''s honor and disgrace were linked to him.

    "Such audacity, he''s made his decision already, isn''t he afraid the mystery box might reveal a pig?" Bo Hong thought with a cold smirk.

    But then, the Supreme General broke into a genuine smile. He nodded towards Cao Sheng, expressing his thoughts, "To be honest, this child reminds me of someone¡ªa miraculous being."

    As the crowd absorbed his words, their thoughts turned backwards. When that terrifying figure emerged in their minds, every one of the 100 Immortals felt a shiver run through their hearts.

    Cao Sheng took a deep breath and smiled, "It seems the Supreme General and I are on the same page."

    "Indeed." The Supreme General gazed in the direction of the Divine Gateway, his voice carrying a profound depth, "Named ordinary, yet extraordinary, a prodigy of the generation, a sovereign of spirits!"

    Following his lead, Cao Sheng continued with a smile, "The coincidence is, they both share the surname Lu."

    None among the 100 Immortals was unaware of whom they spoke.

    Many who had just been mocking Cao Sheng earlier bowed their heads in shame, their faces turning a shade of purplish-green.

    This was especially true for Bo Hong! His heart twisted like a knife. For him, Yun Xiao was merely a minor character, a child.

    Yet, because of his eagerness to ridicule Cao Sheng, he had lost a strategic piece in their rivalry on this Celestial Thunder tform. While not aplete defeat, it was nheless devastating!

    Just as he was struggling to ept his situation, the voice of the Supreme General resounded once again.

    "Bo Hong."

    Bo Hong responded respectfully, "Supreme General, your humble servant is present."

    The gaze of the Supreme General pierced through space, stabbing into the eyes of Bo Hong.

    This caused Bo Hong to squint in pain. He quickly bowed his head!

    Only then did the Supreme General''s voice slowly continue, "Nowadays, talents emerge in every department of the Celestial Court. The Thunder Department, once the sword of the Celestial Court and its foremost division, nownguishes, leaving us all disgraced."

    "Supreme General, this is my responsibility!" Bo Hong''s voice trembled slightly.

    "You oversee the heritage of the Thunder Department and so should cast aside your prejudices, offering opportunities to any youth," the Supreme General dered.

    "I have failed in my duties, I am ashamed." Bo Hong''s scalp tingled.

    Being reprimanded in public was indeed a fatal blow! Word spread quickly: he had been chastised! All because of Yun Xiao, the Supreme General''s rebuke had felt like a blow to the heads of nearly half the Thunder Department''s influential circle.

    "It''s not a reprimand, merely a reminder to focus on the essentials of your duties," the Supreme General said. After finishing, he stood, stretched, and suddenly chuckled. "I''m getting old, I suppose. I tire more easily these days. I''ll take my leave now."

    "Safe journey, Supreme General!" the 100 Immortals hurriedly responded.

    "Cao Sheng," the Supreme General beckoned.

    General Cao quickly approached, bowing deeply.

    "When your foster son faces his second round ofbat, remember to call me."

    "Yes!" Cao Sheng nodded, his eyes shining.

    After the Supreme General departed, the tension seemed to dissipate among the crowd.

    The Celestial Thunder tform fell into a deep silence, undercurrents swirling dangerously below the surface.

    "Excuse me." General Cao rose and strode away.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Jiang Taiping, General Cao summons you."

    Jiang Taiping had already been ready, waiting outside the Summer Thunder Duke Pce. On his way there, the path before him was illuminated. He himself hadn¡¯t anticipated that Lu Yao''s battle would so greatly affect the destinies of such important figures!

    inly put, it all boiled down to the words Immemorial Thunder Seed.

    General Cao first showed a weakness, someone forcefully intervened, aiming to step on him, but Yun Xiao''s astonishing performance caught that person¡¯s foot in a trap, turning it a bruised purple.

    Clearly, that person was Bo Hong.

    "General Cao!" Jiang Taiping was a smooth operator. Upon entering the pce and seeing only General Cao seated at the top, he hurried to serve, smiling as he poured wine for the general.

    "Congrattions, General Cao!" Jiang Taiping suppressed augh. "I hear Lightning Lord Bo Hong feltpletely humiliated."

    "Mhm." General Cao, having been through the earlier debacle, seemed much calmer now. Clearly, for someone of his stature, he understood well that pride often led to errors.

    He and Bo Hong had both suffered from this truth.

    "I have some doubts," General Cao suddenly said.

    When Jiang Taiping noticed the solemnity in General Cao''s demeanor, he quickly erased his smile and said, "Please, go on."

    "Does my little sister know Lu Yao?" General Cao asked.

    Jiang Taiping''s eyes shifted as he spected, "General, is this question prompted by the matchup sequence between Lu Yao and Dongfang Yong?"

    "That match was arranged by her, which is why I''m asking you," General Cao replied.

    Jiang Taiping thought for a moment, knowing he mustn''t withhold anything from General Cao, and recounted all the events that had transpired within the walls of the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion.

    General Cao listened quietly. After hearing everything, he didn''t say much but waved his hand, signaling Jiang Taiping to leave.

    "General, do you intend to bring Lu Yao into your Cao Immortal manor" Jiang Taiping asked casually as he was leaving, assuming General Cao had summoned him to arrange a formal meeting between the foster father and son.

    "He''ll be under my mentorship, no more questions about it," General Cao said sternly.

    "Yes," Jiang Taiping nodded, feeling slightly puzzled, then turned and left.

    After his departure, from the shadows of the side hall, a woman emerged. She was dressed in a blue gown, her long hair cascading like blue electric snakes, making her appear quite petite next to General Cao.

    Yet, in both face and figure, she was exceptionally striking, her beauty no less than Cao Shuo''s but of a distinctly different kind.

    This woman in the blue gown seemed like a blue lightning sprite. She floated over and sat on General Cao''sp, her arms wrapping around his neck.

    The pair, much like a bear and a rabbit together, presented a striking contrast: his brawny arms were nearly as thick as her slender waist...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    <strong>Yun Xiao: *Exists</strong>

    <strong>Random Onee-San:</strong>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 563: Lightning Duchess!

    Chapter 563: Lightning Duchess!

    With the way the woman in the blue gown had her hands wrapped around General Cao, she might be mistaken for a mistress. Yet, she was not.

    She was indeed Cao Sheng''s wife, but more notably, a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court, recently promoted to Summer Lightning Duchess.

    "So, what''s your take on your <em>new</em><em>son</em>?" General Cao, holding the blue gowned beauty as one would a daughter, asked in a joking tone.

    "Be serious," the woman in blue chided with a re, then spoke earnestly, "Murder, scapegoating, threats, plus a uniquely potent soul¡ªthis young man is a veritable harbinger of danger."

    "You''re thinking along the same lines as I am." General Cao pursed his lips, his gaze growing heavy. "It¡¯s tricky to gauge his upper limits now. If they''re low, he¡¯ll simply confirm his status as a good-for-nothing, and we¡¯ll beughingstocks once more. But if they''re high, he could well turn out to be a treacherous wolf we''ve nurtured, one who might significantly jeopardize our careers once out of our control."

    "You¡¯vee to realize this a bitte. Just earlier, at the Celestial Thunder tform, you had a chance to sever ties with him, surely someone else would''ve taken over." The woman in blue shook her head.

    "No choice there. The Supreme General favors him, evenpares him to the Chaos Sovereign¡ªhow could I not take him under my wing?" General Cao paused, then added, "Besides, I¡¯ve only just heard about this matter of the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion."

    "That alone proves the boy¡¯s dangerous temperament. We''re no saints ourselves; I¡¯ve no confidence in fostering any motherly affection with him. If a conflict arises, and he sees a chance to soar, he''ll surely use us as stepping stones," the woman in blue stated gravely.

    "This Immemorial Thunder Seed business¡ªI''m already in too deep," General Cao expressed his irritation."Let it go," the woman in blue said with a smile, soothingly stroking his beard, "Fortunately, a genius takes time to mature. We can afford to y along, use him up, and once you rece the Supreme Marshal, dispose of him while he¡¯s still not fully fledged."

    "Indeed." General Cao pondered for a moment. "So, do we treat him well wholeheartedly next?"

    "He¡¯s no fool; overdoing it will seem insincere," the woman in blue advised.

    "So, my dear wife, how do we control a wolf, relish its meat without it biting back?" General Cao asked with a smile.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "The two of us together. You y the strict one; I''ll y the kind. You intimidate, I charm," the woman in blue replied softly.

    "Could we switch roles?" General Cao asked glumly.

    "Please, with your demeanor, fit to be a kind father?" The woman in blue rolled her eyes.

    "I admit I''m a rough man, hardly suitable for the role of a kind father," General Caoughed heartily, patting the woman''s waist, "From here on, it¡¯s up to you to take the lead."

    "This child is fierce, but still young," the woman in blue stated coldly, her confidence unshaken.

    "But I must remind you of one thing," said General Cao.

    "Speak."

    "Don''t overdo the favors, and don¡¯t give away anything truly valuable. Always hold something back," General Cao instructed.

    "From what you''re saying, you think he might have an extremely high potential?" the woman in the blue dress asked.

    "How could anything but the Immemorial Thunder Seed cause such a stir in the Thunder Immortal Formation? Even if it isn''t that, it¡¯s something of a simr caliber," General Cao paused, then added, "Just looking into the boy''s eyes, I know he¡¯s a sword thrust into the Thunder Department; wielded well, he could eliminate all our rivals."

    "Alright," the woman in the blue nodded, "then we keep him under pressure."

    "Of course, we don¡¯t give him the best, but we make him believe that what we give is the best," General Cao cautioned.

    The woman in blue pinched his nose, pouting, "Nonsense, do I need you to tell me that?"

    Their hands and hearts entwined, affection blossoming between them.

    General Cao''srge hand roamed as he spoke like a bullish suitor, "Why don''t we take the time to create a little scoundrel of our own?"

    "No time." the woman in blue leapt from hisp like a gust of blue wind and thunder, leaving behind her words, "I¡¯m busy seeing my darling son."

    General Cao grinned and muttered, "Crazy woman, you get into role so quickly."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Nine Thunders Arena, Yun Xiao stood with Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing.

    Jiang Heqing clung to his arm, her face sweet with affection.

    Jiang Haiyan''s head was bowed, her cheeks flushed with emotion.

    As Dongfang Yong died before her eyes, she felt no sorrow; when she heard her father cheer, she knew their family¡¯s future was about to improve.

    Yun Xiao had truly be the adopted son of the Summer Thunder Duke. He had risen from a lowly and poor Rank 9 Arbiter Initiate to someone utterly unattainable.

    Still, Jiang Haiyan''s heart fluttered, and she was tempted to reach out.

    "Lu Yao..."

    She was about to break the silence when, conveniently, her father returned.

    Yun Xiao looked towards Jiang Taiping.

    Jiang Taiping first went to where Dongfang Sheng was.

    At that moment, Dongfang Sheng, still clutching his son''s body, remained there, his gaze dim, awaiting a verdict.

    "My condolences." Jiang Taiping sighed.

    "Governor, no need to say more, you¡¯ve done all you could. It¡¯s just my son¡¯s misfortune to have crossed someone beyond our reach," Dongfang Sheng said, his voice trembling.

    He was an attendant to Jiang Taiping, who in turn served under General Cao. Now, with Yun Xiao adopted as General Cao''s sworn son, what could he dare to do?

    "Still." Jiang Taiping sighed once more, his eyes reddening as he spoke, "I watched this child grow up, never imagining that after his death, he would be burdened with crimes he did notmit."

    "Governor, it''s all fate!" Dongfang Sheng choked up.

    "Hah¡­" Jiang Taiping sighed deeply for thest time. "You take your son''s body back to Sky Soaring City first."

    "Yes..." Dongfang Sheng nodded, hesitated for a moment, then asked softly, "Governor, this incident hasn¡¯t changed General Cao¡¯s opinion of me, has it?"

    "It certainly hasn¡¯t!" Jiang Taiping dered.

    Dongfang Sheng breathed a sigh of relief. "Alright, then I''ll be taking my leave. I¡¯ve already closed the case at the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, and I¡¯ll go to apologize to Old Zhao and Old Chen."

    "We are all unfortunate souls; I haven¡¯t done well as your elder brother, making you all suffer," Jiang Taiping said.

    "Don''t say that, some people are destined to encounter deadly misfortunes," Dongfang Sheng said before departing with his son, sighing, "It¡¯s all fate!"

    Once he was gone, Jiang Taiping''s demeanor shifted, and he approached Yun Xiao with a smile. "Lu Yao, the case at the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion is closed. The evidence shows that Dongfang Yong killed Zhao Danming and Chen Yu to frame you."

    "It¡¯s good that it¡¯s settled, and my innocence is restored," Yun Xiao responded, then inquired, "What did General Cao say?"

    "Uh..." Jiang Taiping, having prepared his response earlier, replied, "General Cao is overseeing the selections and is quite busy, he asked me to look after you."

    After saying this, Jiang Taiping smiled and continued, "If you need anything, just let me know."

    "Oh? Then, Governor Jiang, may we step aside for a moment?"

    Yun Xiao led him to one side and then said, "You know, I would like to request a treasure from you."

    "A treasure? What would that be?" Jiang Taiping asked curiously.

    "The Boundary Defining Divine Needle," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    Jiang Taiping was genuinely startled, taking a moment beforeughing, "Lu Yao, you really have a sense of humor, haha."

    "You think I''m joking?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Go on, stop it, why do you start by digging at my coffers?" Jiang Taipingughed, waving his hand.

    "Can''t help it, bing General Cao¡¯s sworn son has indeed increased my appetite." Yun Xiao chuckled.

    Jiang Taiping continued tough, saying nothing more.

    Yun Xiao, having a clear idea in mind, nodded, "As I said before, you and I are friends, and what just passed was merely a joke between friends, harmless, right?"

    "Of course," Jiang Taiping replied, then nced at his beautiful daughters and whispered, "Actually, not just as friends, considering as family could work too."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao looked at him.

    "How about we first clear up the confusion around Heqing? After all, we are friends, the case is closed, and who knows, we might even be family," Jiang Taiping suggested.

    "Let''s talk about thatter; I''m still not feeling very secure," Yun Xiao said.

    "..." Jiang Taiping could only give a wry smile.

    Neither the matter of the Boundary Defining Divine Needle nor that of Jiang Heqing were pursued further.

    "Since General Cao hasn¡¯t asked to see me, I should head back to the Hall of Soaring Thunder. What do you think?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "My daughters haven''t yet fought in the first round," Jiang Taiping said.

    "Then I''ll head back now and you can notify me when the second round starts," Yun Xiao said.

    "No problem," Jiang Taiping nodded. He was soon to be a Rank 4 Thunder Emissary of the Celestial Court, and the way he spoke with Yun Xiao, after this battle, hadpletely changed.

    This was the elevation in status Yun Xiao had sought!

    However, he also knew that this elevation was still a distance away from acquiring the Boundary Defining Divine Needle.

    To truly rely on his strength, there was still a vast gap between him and this Rank 4 Heavenly Officer.

    His ying of Dongfang Yong, a cultivator at the Divine Self Realm, suggested that his current strength was nearing that of a Rank 8 Arbiter Commander like Liu Mumu.

    Yun Xiao and she exchanged nces.

    Silently, the two made their way toward the Hall of Soaring Thunder.

    Along the path, Liu Mumu calmly stated, "You''re stirring up more trouble than ever."

    "It¡¯s getting better, isn¡¯t it?" Yun Xiao said.

    "The Thunder Department isn¡¯t as simple as you think," Liu Mumu said, biting her lip.

    "I know," Yun Xiao said.

    "Cao Sheng is certainly no saint either. He will use you," Liu Mumu warned.

    "I''m aware," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Hearing this, Liu Mumu looked at the young man anew, pausing before she finally said, "Be careful in all things, and good luck to you."

    Yun Xiao smiled. "Atst, you''re not trying to stop me."

    Liu Mumu also smiled softly. "Because honestly, I''ve watched you advance from your Arbiter examination to now... you truly are remarkable."

    "Thanks for thepliment!" Yun Xiao was delighted.

    Killing Dongfang Yong and earning widespread recognition didn''t stir much inside him. But when Liu Mumu finally acknowledged from her heart all that he had done, his joy was immense.

    "Master," Yun Xiao''s eyes trembled as he looked at her, suddenly saying, "In this life, the more one seeks approval from others, the more exhausting it bes."

    "And so?" Liu Mumu asked.

    "So, it''s enough to be recognized by those you care about. That alone is beautiful," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Oh?" Liu Mumu was taken aback, somewhat self-mockingly she asked, "Don''t tell me, I''m someone you care about?"

    "Yes," Yun Xiao affirmed with a nod, "You, Arbiter Lu, and that Lu Yao, as well as Miss Yu, I care about all of you. It¡¯s because of you that I realize my actions have meaning, and that there is still hope in this world."

    "Oh..." Liu Mumu nodded vaguely, her eyes reddening again.

    "So!" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled fiercely, "Here and now, I swear to you, whoever caused the death of Arbiter Lu, no matter who they are, will not meet a good end!"

    "..." Liu Mumu stared at him nkly.

    After a long while, she took out a notebook from her embrace, whispering, "You are Lu Yao now, the journal, it''s yours again."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back at the Hall of Soaring Thunder¡­ When Yun Xiao returned, he found quite a few people at the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion.

    "Young Master." An elder in ck robes bowed to Yun Xiao, then said, "The Madame s waiting for you in your cultivation chamber."

 Chapter 564: No Need For Looting! Just Find Another Mama!

    Chapter 564: No Need For Looting! Just Find Another Mama!

    In the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, about 20 Immortals of unfathomable cultivation stood vigil around the perimeter. The status of The Lady was evidently elevated.

    Liu Mumu guessed the identity of the neer and exchanged a nce with Yun Xiao, signaling him to be cautious. Then, she discreetly retreated to a distance.

    "Young Master, this way please," the elder in ck robes said with a respectful demeanor, treating Yun Xiao as if he truly were the young master of the Cao Family.

    "Thank you." Yun Xiao stepped across the corridor and approached the door of his practice room.

    The elder remained at the courtyard entrance.

    Yun Xiao proceeded on his own, knocking on the stone door and whispering, "Lu Yao asks for an audience."

    "Enter." A gentle voice came from within.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao pushed the door open gently and stepped inside.

    There, in his cultivation chamber, sat a woman in a blue gown on a wooden chair, her presence a melding of the sea and lightning¡ªfair-skinned, beautiful, petite, and enchanting. Her spirit was more vivid and ethereal than any others Yun Xiao had met in the Thunder Department, noble yet clear.Yun Xiao looked at her, then around the room, and asked softly, "Sister, may I know where my master''s wife is?"

    The woman in the blue gown paused, then chuckled softly, her smile warm as a spring breeze.

    "Am I that young?" she asked with a smile.

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao realized his mistake and bowed. "I have spoken out of turn, please forgive me."

    She shook her head. "Those words are pleasing; where is the offense?"

    "Yes," Yun Xiao smiled as well.

    "But..." She looked at him, smiling, "why do you call me ¡®master''s wife''? Foster mother would be more appropriate. If you don''t mind, call me mother, and I might just agree."

    Yun Xiao blushed. "Previously, General Cao intended to adopt me, but fearing I might tarnish his reputation due to my meager talents, I chose to serve him loyally as a disciple first, and have yet to truly earn his approval."

    "I see." She nodded, then seriously added, "Let''s forget about Old Cao for now. You can continue to be his disciple, but as for me, I regard you as my son."

    "This..." Yun Xiao hesitated.

    "Don''t worry, in this house, I, Gu Suwan, have the final say," she said, standing up and approaching Yun Xiao.

    She was not tall, her youthful aura entuated, delicate, and exquisitely beautiful.

    "Your surname is Gu?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes," Gu Suwan replied.

    "My mother also shares the surname Gu," Yun Xiao revealed.

    The name of Miss Yu was Gu Suyu.

    Of course, it was merely a coincidence.

    "Is that so?" Gu Suwan''s beautiful eyes sparkled, and she mused, "This shows that you and I are truly fated."

    Yun Xiao responded, "Your affection overwhelms me."

    "Come on now. No need to be so reserved. A mother needs no reason to dote on her son." Gu Suwan pouted. She stepped forward, straightened a lock of Yun Xiao¡¯s hair, and with a wink, she offered, "I¡¯ll give you some small gifts if you call me mom. How about that?"

    Though she was clearly no longer a girl and likely around the age of General Cao, her yful innocence was innate.

    For Yun Xiao, the sight was peculiar¡ªa woman who looked hardly more than a child herself, asking to be called mother.

    "This... I haven¡¯t yet proven myself. Wouldn¡¯t General Cao be displeased?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I''ve already told you, I make the decisions at home," Gu Suwan paused, then taking Yun Xiao''s hand, she looked into his eyes and cooed, "I like you, boy. If he has a problem, I''ll deal with him."

    Seeing her eager anticipation, Yun Xiao took a deep breath, his eyes filled with respect, and he said, "Mother."

    "Ah!" Gu Suwan was overjoyed, twirling around in delight. "Suddenly having such a strapping young son¡ªit''s truly wonderful."

    Yun Xiao watched her childlike excitement, at a loss for words.

    "My son!" Gu Suwan affectionately took his hand again. "What gift would you like? Just ask."

    "The affection you show me is a gift enough..."

    "Come now! I like straightforwardness," Gu Suwan pressed.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded and said, "I currentlyck two things, top tier sword techniques and True Immortal Jades."

    "..." Gu Suwan was taken aback! Then, biting her lip, she realized that although Yun Xiao had been speaking formally, his gift list had been well thought out in advance!

    "You really don¡¯t hold back, do you?" Gu Suwan raised an eyebrow.

    "I wouldn¡¯t dare," Yun Xiao looked down, a hint of dejection in his tone, "Born into poverty, I''ve always been short of money, which has hindered my progress. Now that I have the fortune to step into the Nine Thunders Arena, I hope to catch up and soon make you proud."

    "There, there," Gu Suwan said, her eyes softening. "I was just teasing, don''t be nervous."

    With that, she reached into her robe, rummaged a bit, and then produced a giant Bag of Holding, handing it to Yun Xiao. She looked at him tenderly and said, "Here are 50,000 True Immortal Jades for you to spend."

    "50,000?" Yun Xiao''s eyes widened.

    "Too little?" Gu Suwan bit her lip.

    "No." Yun Xiaoughed awkwardly. "It''s just that my annual stipend is only 100 True Immortal Jades. So, I was just thinking about how an amount like 50,000 would take me 500 years to earn."

    Gu Suwan shook her head with a caring smile. "Poor child, don''t worry. From now on, if you ever need money, just ask your mother."

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded, his feelings mixed. Gaining another mother had turned out to be quicker than earning money through murder.

    Such was the way of the Immortals!

    No amount of prowess in battle could match the power of personal connections.

    "I hear you''re skilled in both sword and sigil?" Gu Suwan inquired further.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

    Gu Suwan pointed at the Bag of Holding in his hand, chuckling, "That''s fortunate. Your foster father is a Sword Cultivator, and I am an Inscription Cultivator. We can both guide your cultivation. Here, take this. It''s the Cao Immortal Manor''s Thunder Sword Technique and an inscription spell from my own Gu Family. They are secret arts not shared outside, and even with 100,000 True Immortal Jades, you might not be able to purchase them."

    Yun Xiao was astonished. Initially, he had been wary of this new mother of his, but now, he saw her generosity was boundless. He felt almost indebted.

    "Don''t feel burdened. You are now the young master of the Cao household; how can we let you fall behind others in terms of cultivation resources?" Gu Suwan said.

    "I swear I will repay this tenfold," Yun Xiao dered, his eyes zing.

    "Tenfold? Wow, I''m touched." Gu Suwan covered her mouth,ughing lightly.

    "I''d risk my life without hesitation!" Yun Xiao proimed.

    "Nonsense." Gu Suwan''s eyes dimmed. "Perhaps it¡¯s because of my health, I''ve been unable to bear a child for many years. Now that I finally have you, how could I bear to let you die?"

    "Mother¡­" Yun Xiao took a deep breath, his resolve hardening, "I will not disappoint you."

    "There''s no need for burdens. As a parent, all I wish is for my child to be happy and grow up healthy. As long as you''re happy, my heart is content," Gu Suwan exined.

    "Certainly." Yun Xiao nodded.

    As the two spoke, Gu Suwan nced at the sky. "It¡¯s gettingte. Why don¡¯t youe stay with me at the Cao household? I¡¯ve had a pce cleaned up for you, the Drifting Cloud Pce. It will be your residence from now on."

    She had thought of everything.

    Yet, Yun Xiao hesitated slightly, asking softly, "What about General Cao..."

    "Don''t mind him. That old man is used to putting on a stern face, expecting others to guess his thoughts. It''s quite dull," Gu Suwan spoke disparagingly.

    Yun Xiao nodded but added, "I have yet to achieve anything notable. I feel somewhat undeserving of the favor he has shown me. To avoid causing him annoyance, I¡¯d like to stay here until I can make a notable contribution during the selection in the Thunder Department and truly earn his approval. Only then would I take up the role as the young master of the Cao household. Would that be alright?"

    "You''re worried about Jiang Taiping''s two daughters, aren¡¯t you? I¡¯ve seen them; both are beauties," Gu Suwanughed.

    "My focus is on achievements..." Yun Xiao said.

    "No need to exin. It¡¯s natural for young people to experience romantic feelings." Gu Suwan nodded. "We¡¯ll do as you suggest. You can move to the Cao household whenever that old man gives his nod."

    "Thank you." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Your approach is right. The title of Young Master of the Cao Household is a divine blessing. Many are blinded by it, lost in luxury, bing arrogant and overbearing. But you, always mindful to repay the kindness shown to you, show your true nature remains intact, neither servile nor overbearing." After speaking, Gu Suwan''s beautiful eyes twinkled. "It¡¯s your temperament that makes me grow fonder of you."

    "I will work hard." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Well, it¡¯s gettingte, and the second round of selections is about to start. I won¡¯t disturb you further. If you need anything, you can alwayse find me at the Cao household."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Alright," Yun Xiao said.

    Before leaving, Gu Suwan gave Yun Xiao a profound look at the door, sighing. "You''ve grown so handsome, I wonder which girl will be lucky enough to have you."

    With that, she closed the stone door for Yun Xiao and departed.

    Yun Xiao stood still, waiting for a long while.

    "Congrattions on gaining another mother!" Red Moon chuckled.

    "Bluey, what do you think of her?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Why don¡¯t you ask me first?" Red Moon red.

    "Then you first," Yun Xiao said.

    "My verdict: thumbs up!" Red Moon stated seriously.

    Yun Xiao paused, then frustrated, covered its mouth, scolding, "You fool, always focused on one thing!"

    "Can''t help it, he was just made that way," Blue Star rolled his eyes, then added, "Thedy seems nice, straightforward, and generous."

    "Yes, that''s what she wants me to see," Yun Xiao said.

    "And then?" Blue Star pouted, "Are you going to lecture me on human nature again?"

    "No need, just keep watching and you¡¯ll see. If there''s a favor, I¡¯ll ept it. If there¡¯s trouble, I¡¯ll repay it fiercely."

    As soon as he finished speaking, Blue Star said, "Someone else ising."

    Red Moon bit Yun Xiao¡¯s finger excitedly. "This time it''s different!"

    At this moment, the stone door of the cultivation chamber was pushed open, and a tall, slender figure appeared at the door.

    Her violet hair flowed like waves, her long dress split to reveal her legs up to her waist, her figure sinuous like a water snake, her red lips vivid, and her eyes alluring, emitting an intoxicatingly peachy allure¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 565: The Game!

    Chapter 565: The Game!

    "What can I do for you, Thunder Emissary Cao?" Yun Xiao, ever so calm, gazed at the woman before him. She was indeed a spectacle of human beauty, simr to the War Princess. Yet, unlike the War Princess, she radiated a mature and seductive charm.

    With a resounding thud, Thunder Emissary Cao shut the stone door behind her.

    She stood silent, her captivating eyes¡ªand the twin serpents coiled around her ears¡ªlocked onto Yun Xiao with a deep, entrancing stare.

    Then, she advanced, her shapely legs moving with grace towards him. Soon, she was close, pressing the distance even as her exquisite face nearly touched his. The serpents on her ears flicked their crimson tongues, teasing Yun Xiao¡¯s ears with the heat and rich scent of her presence.

    Under the immense pressure of her celestial power, Yun Xiao found himself retreating slowly until his back met the wall.

    ¡°May I ask, Thunder Emissary...¡± His cheeks flushed pink, for it had been a while since he''d indulged in earthly pleasures.

    She had him pinned against the wall, their bodies almost merging. Before he could finish, the Thunder Emissary shushed him with a wink and a sultry look.

    ¡°Give me your hand,¡± she whispered right beside his ear.

    Before Yun Xiao could react, she grasped his hand swiftly and drew it beneath her garments. He could feel the firm yet bouncy sensation of a well-developed mound. His eyes widened, his mind nk as he waspletely caught off guard.¡°Do you like it?¡± Thunder Emissary Cao asked silkily, her eyes a mesh of allure.

    ¡°Love it! Absolutely love it!¡± Red Moon¡¯s voice rang out, mimicking Yun Xiao¡¯s voice.

    Swiftly, Yun Xiao withdrew his hand. This wasn¡¯t about liking or not¡ªit was about what on earth she was up to.

    Yun Xiao sought to leave, but she unleashed a violet lightning serpent from her being. It slithered along her flowing hair, weaving a dense web of thunder around him. Even a slight touch scorched his skin with its fierce electricity.

    "This is where I hold the reins," Thunder Emissary Cao dered, her arm snaking around Yun Xiao''s neck as she gracefully hooked one leg around his waist. Their proximity would have been intimate if not for the cold barrier of his armored vest.

    "Please, respect yourself, Thunder Emissary Cao," Yun Xiao implored. This wasn¡¯t romance; it was oppression. He felt reduced to nothing more than a favored pet, and it angered him.

    "Why call me Thunder Emissary? I''m basically your aunt," she whispered seductively by his ear.

    "That only makes it less appropriate. We should adhere to the ethics of the Celestial Court," he responded.

    "Ethics be damned," she retorted, her fingers tearing at his armor, tracing paths across his body with a burning gaze. "Right now, I only desire to devour you, my pretty little rabbit."

    Yun Xiao had never encountered such blunt desire. It was rare, yes, but wholly repulsive to him, crushing both his body and spirit under an unbearable weight.

    "I do not enjoy this. If you force me, you¡¯ll gain nothing but a piece of wood. What pleasure is there in that?" Yun Xiao said through clenched teeth.

    Her mood chilled at his cold retort, her pretty face turning icy. The serpents around her ears hissed violently, lunging towards his eyes, nearly piercing them before she restrained them.

    "Every man in the Thunder Department would dream of this moment with me," she stated coldly, confident in her allure.

    "I¡¯ve offered myself to you, and yet you show no interest?" she scorned, her gaze dismissive as she continued, "Lu Yao, perhaps you¡¯re not much of a man after all. All pride, no essence."

    Yun Xiao bristled at her words. Proving himself to her would be simple, but to yield under oppression and y into her hand? That was the truth of it.

    "Boring!" she eximed, her desire fading swiftly as he continued to resist. Her provocations, it seemed, had lost their edge.

    She slid off Yun Xiao, straightened her disheveled violet dress, shook her wavy hair, and turned to leave with a twist of her waist.

    "Thunder Emissary Cao," Yun Xiao said coldly, watching her retreating figure, "I will remember today."

    "What will you do about it, you weakling?" Thunder Emissary Cao scoffed, ncing back disdainfully.

    "By returning the favor in kind," Yun Xiao replied.

    Sheughed derisively, shrugging her shoulders. "A nobody trying to overpower me? Can you even manage that?"

    Yun Xiao said no more. Empty threats served no purpose. He was not one for such disys, yet he harbored a deep grudge from this encounter.

    Thunder Emissary Cao gave him onest look. "Fine, I''ll await your revenge, but don''t disappoint me."

    Yun Xiao looked at her with an indifferent gaze.

    "Only if you survive the Thunder Department''s selection," she added with a wink. "I came to remind you today because of your affairs. Lightning Lord Bo Hong was reprimanded. He oversees the Thunder inheritance, and his disciples are gathering, plotting to retaliate during the uing rounds."

    "How many?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "About 2,000 prodigies from the Grand Firmament Academy within the Thunder Department, all disciples of Bo Hong," she replied with a smile.

    "Good," Yun Xiao nodded. "It''s just the asion to vent my anger."

    Hearing this, Thunder Emissary Cao rolled her eyes. "You''re seriously touched in the head rejecting the easy path, insisting on stirring up vengeance."

    "Are you scared?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Ha! I''ll be waiting for you." Sheughed and turned away.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a single kick, she shattered the stone door to dust, clearly angered.

    "This is getting interesting," Red Moon said in delight.

    "This conflict means neither side can back down now." Blue Star chuckled.

    "Exciting! Let''s keep watching," Red Moon added.

    Yun Xiao cursed under his breath and sat down to meditate, shaking his head at the madness of it all.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a dark chamber within the Sky Soaring City, Liu Chaochao strode lightly into the room. There, under the half-light filtering through the doorway, sat a middle-aged man of distinguished appearance, d in armor, poised and serious.

    "Dad!" Liu Chaochao burst in, shutting the door with a mixture of excitement and awe. "I just received a message from Mumu. She says that Lu Yao has be the sworn son of the Summer Thunder Duke. It''s truly..."

    "I already know," Liu Zongyu interjected.

    "You knew?" Liu Chaochao nodded, still in disbelief. "It''s astounding. I never imagined he could achieve such a feat. He has indeed brought honor to Sky Soaring City!"

    "Chaochao," Liu Zongyu spoke calmly, "the reason I asked you to see me wasn¡¯t to discuss Lu Yao."

    "Is there another matter?" Liu Chaochao, tempering his shock, inquired seriously, "Please, father, speak."

    "You''re 60 years old now, aren''t you?" Liu Zongyu asked with a heavy gaze.

    "Sixty two," Liu Chaochao corrected.

    "At 62 years old, to hold such a rank is quite an achievement, better than I was at your age here in Sky Soaring City. But in the Thunder Department, it''s somewhatcking," his father remarked.

    "Indeed! But Dad, I''ve been seeking a breakthrough, and I believe I''m close," Liu Chaochao responded hopefully.

    Liu Zongyu nodded, then sighed. "Your sister''s temperament doesn''t suit this path. Should I be the next governor and be promoted to Rank 5, I''ll fully support your rise to Rank 6."

    "Father, isn''t it too soon? Maybe someone else could step in temporarily, then pass it on to me. After all, my abilities and age might still fall short," Liu Chaochao earnestly suggested.

    Shaking his head, Liu Zongyu said, "Letting someone else temporarily take over is risky. Once they establish themselves, and if something happens to me, would they pass it on to you? There are countless precedents for this. It¡¯s better to pass it directly to a son."

    "But, how can Imand respect? Although Celestial Court positions aren''t hereditary and are mostly managed by rtionships locally without oversight,ck of respect can cause issues, even affecting you," Liu Chaochao argued.

    "If you can''tmand respect now, then make it so you can in the short term," Liu Zongyu dered.

    "How is that possible?" Liu Chaochao shook his head, not out of self-doubt but acknowledging the vast gap.

    "It''s entirely possible! If your abilities match those of other Rank 6 Heavenly Officers, your youth could actually be an advantage," his father reassured him, looking intently.

    "But I''m not there yet. It''s too far a reach," Liu Chaochao objected.

    "I know a way to bring you up to speed quickly," Liu Zongyu suddenly revealed.

    "Oh?" Liu Chaochao was taken aback.

    Standing up, Liu Zongyu approached his son, his gaze deep, his voice grave, whispering, "Son, I''m going to share a secret with you. You must keep it to yourself. Without my permission, do not speak of it to anyone."

    "Yes. Please tell me," Liu Chaochao nodded deeply.

    Taking a deep breath, Liu Zongyu said, "To rise to a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer, you''ll have to be part of the game too."

    "Part of what game?" Liu Chaochao asked eagerly.

    Liu Zongyu did not answer directly but patted his shoulder, saying, "Pack up, andter tonight, I''ll take you to a mortal realm to see for yourself what this game entails."

 Chapter 566: Misty Rebirth, Ascend the Heavens!

    Chapter 566: Misty Rebirth, Ascend the Heavens!

    "Fifty thousand True Immortal Jades!" Yun Xiao eximed.

    This was no small sum.

    The True Immortal Jades in the mine back in Sangju City were mostly rough, unprocessed ore. Of course, this wasn''t too much of an issue thanks to Red Moon''s ultra-efficient stomach.

    However, even if that mine was fully excavated, it was doubtful they could produce 5,000 True Immortal Jades.

    Even thebined possessions of Zhao Danming and Chen Yu only amounted to 7,000 True Immortal Jades.

    Excluding the amount Blue Star and Red Moon skimmed off for themselves, this amount was enough to help Yun Xiao break through two stages.

    Red Moon didn''t mind since he could pretty much digest anything.

    "I''ll need a lot more Tri Heaven Sariras to advance further. I''ll also need to set aside a portion to convert into Origin Orbs too."

    Yun Xiao''s consumption was only going to increase.Even so, these 50,000 True Immortal Jades were enough to alleviate Yun Xiao''s immediate money issues.

    Blue Star and Red Moon converted part of it into Tri Heaven Sariras and part of it into Origin Orbs, handing them over to Yun Xiao.

    As night descended, the second round of selection was about to begin!

    Yun Xiao seized the moment. First, he absorbed the Origin Orbs with his spirit, then channeled the power of the Tri Heaven Sariras into his Nine Suns Dantian. Operating the Primordial Void Technique, he ground the Tri Heaven Sariras into <em>dust</em> and integrated them into his Primordial Sacred Wheel, enhancing its strength continuously.

    The Sacred Wheel grew robust, the spirit solidified, the Dao heart matured, and his cultivation broke through!

    "I''ve broken through two stages, reaching the Perfect Essence Manifestation Realm!" Yun Xiao remarked, breathing out. Like this, the spirit he manifested would grow stronger, appearing more corporeal.

    For him, advancing two stages at a time was normal, even considered slow.

    Fortunately, Blue Star and Red Moon still hadn''tpletely processed the 50,000 True Immortal Jades.

    As long as Yun Xiao''s Dao Heart kept up, he''d have no issue advancing to the Divine Self Realm.

    "Recently, these Seeds of Creation have all been the Core attribute. None of them could rece the Nine Suns Dantian or Nine Heavens Star Meridians¡­ It''s also a shame I couldn''t absorb Dongfang Yong''s Seed of Creation, with there being so many powerful figures around.

    "Of course, with the Third Dao Tribtion being about cultivating the Genesis Spirit, what I need the most now is a Spirit attribute Seed of Creation. So far, apart from that Chaos Sovereign, Lu Fan, I haven''t encountered any others."

    To Yun Xiao, the Thunder Department was a treasure trove, for it was filled entirely with Seeds of Creation!

    Speaking of treasure troves, Yun Xiao was also pretty pleased with gaining a foster mother to provide him funds. Wasn''t this much more efficient than a senseless ughter?

    Under the scrutiny of celestialws and regtions, one had to cleanse their sins after killing. Only by finding a powerful backer could one trulymand power and influence!

    "To put it inly, the Celestial Court is a genuine society of power and status!"

    This was utterly contrary to the Heavenly Pce that Yun Xiao had envisioned.

    Inparison, the Azure Spirit Sword Sect seemed more akin to a world of Immortals.

    Mortals always harbored ethereal imaginations of the Immortals above. But given the nature of human society, the higher thedder of cultivation, the more inevitably it became a battleground for resources. With such wars came a system of power, designed to monopolize treasures and pass down legacies.

    Immortals? They were just fiercer fighters!

    Yun Xiao had long discarded the wispy illusions a mortal might have about the path of the Immortals. He had integrated perfectly.

    Apart from the 50,000 True Immortal Jades, Yun Xiao retrieved the two other things from the Bag of Holding his new foster mother had given him. They were two jade amulets, a violet sword-shaped one and another blue talisman-shaped one. Both bristled with electricity, not just deadly to mortals, but even Yin-Yang Immortals might be reduced to ashes upon contact.

    This indicated the high caliber of the Bag of Holding that Gu Suwan had given him.

    "Without enough strength, one can''t even practice thews of immortality!" Yun Xiao shook his head with a smile, then grasped the sword-shaped jade amulet.

    "The Thunder Sword Technique of the Cao Immortal Manor, given to me, an outsider? That''s a heavy investment."

    Even Liu Mumu wouldn¡¯t dare to spread the Liu Family¡¯s celestial techniques outside, showing how secretive the Great Dao Celestial Realm was about their sacred teachings.

    Yun Xiao stilled his mind, then let his spirit enter the violet sword-shaped jade!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Before him unfolded a world of violet thunder, endless bolts converging into swords, traveling and darting through the void!

    A peal of thunder resonated beside his spirit.

    "Ascend the Heavens!"

    This phrase echoed within his spirit.

    "A lofty origin, yet this celestial sword technique is rooted in fierceness, brutality, and the wrathful control of thunder." Yun Xiao saw through the essence of this sword technique at a nce.

    Indeed, this technique was dozens of times moreplex and powerful than those of the Primordial Academy or the basic ones in the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    It wasn''t even on the same level!

    Derived from the legacy of General Cao''s ancestors from the Thunder Department of righteous immortals!

    "A fine piece, this celestial sword technique rooted in fury fits my current state of mind." Yun Xiao was prone to anger. He was still a man of greed, wrath, and foolishness.

    That¡¯s why, when Zhao Danming and Chen Yu crossed him, he retaliated on the spot.

    In the Thunder Department, where dominance ruled and hearts were shrouded in dark, inscrutable desires, Yun Xiao found a deep discontent gnawing at him.

    Yet, the mortal realms and people like Lu An also held an important ce in his heart.

    "With the fury of thunder, carried by the sword, ascending toward the heavens." Yun Xiao murmured these words, his eyes roaring with the sword of thunder. His spirit withdrew from the sword-shaped amulet, then ventured into another amulet¡ªthis one blue and shaped like a talisman.

    "A Melody of Heartbreak, Misty Rebirth."

    Misty Rebirth was the name of this daoist spell. It was ethereal and celestial. But it was a fusion of thunder and torrential rain.

    Before him, the world burst into countless palm-sized spheres of blue lightning that crackled sharply, converging as if a thunderstorm were plummeting down, drowning the whole world in its tempestuous rage.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The sound of the storm magnified the deluge. When it rose and fell in waves, it really did sound like <em>heartbreak</em>.

    "Not bad," Yun Xiao remarked, taking another look. As his spirit left, it seemed as though countless storms of lightning rained down in his eyes.

    "Mid Vast Heaven grade?" Yun Xiao remarked, recognizing the grades of these two celestial techniques.

    The Celestial Court¡¯s system of magic, Sword Souls, Life Sigils, flora and fauna, and mineral spirit weapons all fell into a conventionally agreed hierarchy, seemingly referred to as the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades, delineated by the heavens themselves.

    For Yun Xiao, already exposed to numerous celestial techniques, Mid Vast Heaven grade was quite esteemed.

    "Truly not bad."

    Enlightened, Yun Xiao stood up. Though it was ast-minute effort, his high aptitude made mastery almost instant.

    At that moment, someone knocked at the door. It was Jiang Haiyan.

    Her voice trembled slightly as she said, "Lu Yao, it¡¯s time to go to the Nine Thunders Arena."

    "Yes," Yun Xiao replied, walking over and opening the stone door.

    Outside stood the blue-eyed woman, appearing isted and forlorn. Her gaze towards Yun Xiao had transformed from one of lofty pride to one of admiration mixed with fear.

    "Let¡¯s go," Jiang Haiyan whispered.

    Yun Xiao nced at her, then suddenly took her hand, pulling her inside before shutting the stone door.

    "You¡­" Jiang Haiyan''s heart raced, her cheeks flushed as she said, "I know what you want to do... but there''s no time."

    "What do you think you know?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Biting her lip, Jiang Haiyan said with some indignation, "I''m sorry, I underestimated you before. Now that you''ve ascended so quickly, you surely want revenge."

    "How would I seek revenge?" Yun Xiao looked at her and asked.

    "You and my father are on the same path. We sisters no longer dare oppose you. What more could you want from me but this body of mine?" Jiang Haiyan spoke, her emotions a mix of fear and anticipation.

    "Jiang Haiyan," Yun Xiao shook his head, "why must you see me as a mere beast?"

    "Uh¡­" Jiang Haiyan paused, then said, "The end of conflict between men and women is a rtionship of conquest. Such has always been the way of Immortals."

    "Is it possible that I''m not interested in you at all?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Hearing this, Jiang Haiyan''s eyes dimmed, and she nodded silently, "I understand."

    After a moment of silence, she spoke again, "Since this is so, and my family no longer poses a threat to you, and since we are indebted to you, could you give my sister a chance for early release?"

    "Come here. I''ll tell you," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    Jiang Haiyan looked at him and stepped within a foot of where he stood.

    "Don''t move." Yun Xiao suddenly extended his hand, pressing a Sword Soul against her throat.

    "You¡­" Jiang Haiyan''s face paled, her body trembled slightly, tears slowly forming in her eyes.

    Yun Xiao gripped her neck, pinning her against the stone door, while his other hand moved the Sword Soul to her heart!

    From his forehead, a slit opened, revealing a violet vertical eye like that of a true dragon, staring intently at Jiang Haiyan.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Look into my eye, submit to my spirit, do not move, do not resist, or tonight, your father will mourn his daughter." Yun Xiao''s face, cold and eerie in the violet light, came close to hers.

    "No, no, you can''t do this¡­" Jiang Haiyan trembled violently, tears streaming down as she looked at Yun Xiao in despair.

    She hade to plead for her sister, not to entangle herself.

    In her eyes, with Yun Xiao''s new status as General Cao''s foster son, he surely didn¡¯t need to use them to threaten her father anymore.

    "Jiang Haiyan, I won''t give you a second chance. If you want to live, you need to behave," Yun Xiao said coldly.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Uh¡­" Jiang Haiyan paused, then said, "The end of conflict between men and women is a rtionship of conquest. Such has always been the way of Immortals."

    "Is it possible that I''m not interested in you at all?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Hearing this, Jiang Haiyan''s eyes dimmed, and she nodded silently, "I understand."</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 567: Offerings

    Chapter 567: Offerings

    "No¡­!" Whimpering softly, Jiang Haiyan''s tears flowed like rain, her eyes bright red, too frightened to move.

    At that moment, a violet glow bathed her vision, and she found herself copsing into Yun Xiao''s arms, where she remained for a considerable time. When she finally lifted her head, her gaze was vacant as she looked at Yun Xiao.

    Her mind was clear, yet something had irrevocably changed¡ªshe found she could no longer harbor hatred towards Yun Xiao, and her instinct was to not defy him in any way.

    "Really, apart from obeying me, your life will be unaffected. Why the tears?" Yun Xiao asked, his mouth twisted in a slight smirk, observing her earlier despair.

    "What do you want from me?" Jiang Haiyan asked, her voice trembling.

    "Nothing much," Yun Xiao replied calmly. "I just need to secure something from your father. It¡¯s an addedyer of insurance for when I must show my true intentions and he¡¯ll have no choice but toply."

    Jiang Haiyan wiped her tears and nodded silently.

    "Call your sister in, let''s wait a bit before we head out," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Okay." She nodded again.Her sister, Jiang Heqing, had been just outside, and Jiang Haiyan had initially intended to bring her along to seek release from Yun Xiao.

    When the sisters entered, Yun Xiao didn¡¯t spare them a nce, his thoughts still on the mysteries of the two celestial techniques he''d just learned.

    After a lengthy pause, he suddenly spoke to Jiang Haiyan, "When we go out, quietly inform your father that I have lifted the soul control from your sister. From now on, act as you did before in his presence."

    "Okay." The two nodded obediently, Jiang Heqing returning to her usual lively demeanor.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "And one more thing," Yun Xiao said seriously, looking at them. "Tell him that during this time, you sisters have been...promised by me."

    They paused for a moment, then slowly nodded.

    They understood Yun Xiao''s purpose. By making their father believe that Yun Xiao was now tied to their family, it would inevitably bring them closer, making it difficult for their father to guard against him.

    Whatever it took, Yun Xiao was determined to obtain the Boundary Defining Divine Needle.

    "Let''s go."

    With a satisfied smile, Yun Xiao, nked by a beauty on each arm, kicked open the stone door and strode out, his spirits high as he went off to join the battle.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Located just beyond the Summer Thunder Duke Pce was the estate of the Cao Family. The Cao Immortal Manor was a mighty family with numerous branches, among them Cao Sheng and Cao Shuo stood as pirs.

    The madame of the Cao Immortal Manor was Gu Suwan. She was revered as the Summer Lightning Duchess andmanded respect from everyone within.

    As night just began to fall, Gu Suwan returned home. At the entrance, a guard informed her, "Madame, a rtive from your maternal side is waiting in the courtyard."

    "Who is it?" Gu Suwan inquired.

    "It appears to be Gu Sutao."

    The guards, familiar with all the high-profile visitors, identified her easily.

    "Tao''er?" Gu Suwan pursed her lips, gave it little thought, and returned to her private quarters in the garden.

    In the pavilion sat a young girl in a peach blossom dress.

    "Auntie."

    Upon seeing Gu Suwan, the girl in the peach dress stood, bowed respectfully, and then, with a twinkle in her eye, peered behind Gu Suwan and asked, "Where''s my little cousin? Didn''t hee back with you?"

    "Do you mean Lu Yao? He''s gone to the Nine Thunders Arena." Gu Suwan frowned slightly at her niece¡¯s inquiry. "Tao''er, aren''t you supposed to be in the selection too? The second round has already started, and here you are, wandering about."

    Hearing that Lu Yao was at the arena, the girl''s expression turned curious, a tinge of disappointment in her voice. "That¡¯s a shame. I missed seeing this famously handsome man. All the noble girls across the Thunder Department are abuzz¡ªapparently, he¡¯s breathtakingly handsome, stirring the hearts of many Immortals."

    Gu Suwan, slightly displeased, waved her off. "Enough with your wild friends¡ªdon¡¯t you dare set your sights on my precious son."

    "Really? Auntie, such a handsome and talented foster son, surely you intend to introduce him to the high ranks of the Divine Gateway? Who knows, he might even connect with royalty," the girl teased.

    "You little brat, you know nothing. Off with you to the selection," Gu Suwan replied sharply.

    "Alright, alright, I''ll watch over your darling," the girl in the peach dress said with a softugh, then added slowly, "You know, when the Thunder Immortal Formation revealed that face, I was quite startled. Actually, I saw him up close during his fight with Dongfang Yong¡ªover and over."

    "What are you trying to say?" Gu Suwan asked.

    The girl blushed slightly. "It felt familiar, as if I had seen him in a dream."

    "Nonsense," Gu Suwan rolled her eyes.

    "Hehe, never mind, Auntie, I''ll meet him another day!" With that, the girl walked away.

    As she turned her back to Gu Suwan, the corners of her mouth curled up in a sly smile, and she murmured, "To think I''d see him like this again. Almost scared me to death."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Meanwhile, within the Summer Thunder Duke Pce.

    General Cao, seated in his chair of honor, suddenly looked up, his eyes crackling with lightning, and gazed down the long corridor. "Cao Shuo,e here!"

    "What now?" At the doorway, a tall beauty in a violet dress leaned casually against the frame, ncing at General Cao with a hint of impatience.

    "Where have you been?" General Cao asked sternly.

    "Where?" Cao Shuo smiled coquettishly, a mock bashfulness in her voice. "I''ve just be an aunt, naturally, I had to show some affection to my new nephew."

    "And?" The General frowned.

    "We sparked a fierce passion." Cao Shuo looked back, reminiscing, "I must say, the vigor of a young and handsome body is quite something."

    Hearing this, General Cao nearly fell off his chair.

    "Did you really?" he asked incredulously.

    "The men I fancy, can they ever escape my grasp?" Cao Shuoughed.

    General Cao fell silent, his gaze turning icy. "Just this once!"

    "You care quite a bit?" Cao Shuo''s tone also turned cold.

    "Heh, if you really liked him, you wouldn¡¯t unt it and get him killed. You''d be happy then," General Cao said coldly.

    "Hmph." Cao Shuo scoffed and turned to leave.

    "The Supreme General just sent me a message," General Cao suddenly said.

    At the mention of the Supreme General, Cao Shuo''s expression chilled, and she turned back to re at General Cao fiercely. "Go keep that decrepit old dogpany yourself. Cao Sheng, I warn you, don''t entertain the thought. I am not a tool for you to trade for political gains!"

    "Cao Shuo!" General Cao stood, his eyes crackling with thunder as he advanced towards her. "How old are you, still so na?ve? In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, when a superior demands something from a subordinate like you, what right do you have to refuse? His interest in you is the greatest fortune and asset you could have in this lifetime! To refuse is to defy the unspoken rules of the Celestial Court. You¡¯d be sealing your own dismal fate. This world never gave you the option to say no!"

    "Get away!" Cao Shuo stepped back, clenching her teeth.

    "Calm down," General Cao urged as he ced his hands on her shoulders, his tone serious. "Listen to me, little sister. On this Immortal path, there¡¯s always someone above us, pressing down. Don''t be too headstrong; that¡¯s a deadly poison for yourself! This is an opportunity, not a curse. Do you know how many women in the Thunder Department yearn for a chance to be favored by the Supreme General? He¡¯s about to retire. His wife has passed, and do you know how vast his inheritance is? It could all be yours!"

    "Yes, and your promotion to Rank 2 would be guaranteed! You¡¯d prefer I go now and grovel at that old man¡¯s feet!" Cao Shuo scoffed coldly.

    "What''s wrong with that?" General Cao shook her slightly. "With the support of two generations of Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder Generals, after me, you''ll be the next Rank 2 divine being of the Celestial Court! Then, you canmand the winds and storms in the Celestial Court and the Thunder Department!"

    "Shut up. I don''t crave these things like you do; they even sicken me," Cao Shuo said, her face filled with scorn.

    "Sicken you..." General Cao looked at her meaningfully. "Cao Shuo, are you implying something?"

    "Don''t overthink it." Cao Shuo pushed his hands away and said no more, walking out.

    "Do you know why your cultivation always stalls at this stage? Because you refuse to ept the offerings! An Immortal without the worship of a mortal realm is like a castle in the air. Every Immortal above Rank 6 has gone to a mortal realm to preach and receive the baptism of eternal offerings. If you keep dying, forget about Rank 2¡ªyou won''t make it past Rank 3 in your lifetime!" General Cao''s voice boomed like thunder, resonating continuously.

    Cao Shuo turned back, her silence enduring as she stared at General Cao for a long time.

    "Offerings... that word sounds quite pleasant, as if it''s voluntary. But, I¡¯ve been to the Ascension Pool. The stench of the dead there is quite pure."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 568: Goodbye, Lu Yao

    Chapter 568: Goodbye, Lu Yao

    Night had fallen! The second round of the Thunder Department''s Immortal Tournament began in earnest!

    By afternoon''s end, of the almost 10,000 participants, half had already been eliminated. Less than 5,000 remained.

    It was said that this year, the geniuses from the Thunder Department were more ferocious than ever.

    Among them, close to 2,000 Arbiters from various cities hade, and by the end of the first round, nearly 1,600 returned home.

    The pair of sisters from Sky Soaring City were also ousted in the first round.

    Even Jiang Haiyan, who was in the Early Divine Self Realm, hadn¡¯t passed the first round, illustrating the brutal nature of this selection.

    At this moment, with the fall of night, the dazzling thunderclouds became even more blinding.

    The entire Thunder Department, under the illumination of the Thunder Immortal Formation, seemed still in daylight, only brighter and more explosive, with everyone¡¯s faces flickering with electric light.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Before the start of the second round, the 5,000 thunderclouds began to merge two by two, forming 2,500rger thunderclouds.This meant that after the second round, only 2,500 geniuses would remain!

    After the fusion of the thunderclouds, Thunder Emissary Cao appeared and publicly dered the beginning of the second round! With her figure d in armor, her curves were even more pronounced, the breastte thrust forward as if ready to burst forth.

    The young geniuses, looking up at such a figure, felt both awe and longing.

    Under the rigid hierarchy of the Celestial Court, such a goddess was something most could only dream of, never to approach.

    As the battlemenced, the Thunder Rankings began to sh with nine-colored lights again, announcing eachbat pairing, the names igniting the fervor of the young warriors who faced their matches with solemn, tense expressions!

    At that moment, Yun Xiao arrived at the scene of the Nine Thunders Arena.

    He stood to the side, his mind filled with thoughts of the two celestial techniques he''d received, quietly waiting.

    ¡°Those two jade amulets¡­¡± Liu Mumu approached, immediately noticing the two jade amulets hanging from Yun Xiao''s waist.

    One was violet and sword-shaped, the other blue and talisman-shaped.

    In the glittering night, these two amulets were likenterns hanging on Yun Xiao, conspicuously bright.

    "Do you recognize them?" Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°The signature celestial techniques of Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan, Mid Vast Heaven grade, Ascending the Heavens and Misty Rebirth,¡± Liu Mumu concluded after a moment¡¯s observation.

    "Is it that obvious?" Yun Xiao asked in surprise.

    "These techniques are well-known," Liu Mumu admitted with a touch of admiration. "I must say, they are valuable. My own family couldn¡¯t produce such techniques."

    "That¡¯s good then," Yun Xiao said with a slight smile.

    Liu Mumu nced at him and said, "Hey, you''re not ming me, your teacher, for not passing on celestial techniques to you, are you? They just recognized you as their foster son and have already shown you such favor."

    "You''re overthinking it," Yun Xiao replied calmly. "Giftse with expectations. I receive favors, and in return, I add to their prestige. It¡¯s a transaction. They pay, and I deliver."

    "It''s good you understand that," Liu Mumu noted. "Just don¡¯t be overly grateful for every little favor."

    "Speaking of which, are their reputations really that terrible?" Yun Xiao asked casually.

    "Their reputations aren¡¯t bad, it¡¯s just..." Liu Mumu started, then paused and shook her head. "Forget it, all the Thunder Department officials are like this, nothing more to say... Oh, I came to tell you, I''m heading back to Sky Soaring City."

    "Leaving so soon?" Yun Xiao obviously felt a pang of reluctance.

    "My father has registered me for the Rank 7 Sky Protector examination. I need to go back and give it my all," Liu Mumu exined.

    She had likely been preparing for this all along, but Jiang Taiping had forcefully brought her here. Now, with Yun Xiao¡¯s status having soared in just half a day, Governor Jiang no longer dared to restrict her.

    After all, defeating Jiang Heqing and securing a selection slot had only happened that morning.

    Yesterday, Yun Xiao was still in Sangju City!

    "The speed at which you¡¯ve risen has left me baffled," Liu Mumu said with a smirk. "Others might think you''ve been hiding your true strength. I don¡¯t believe that."

    The issue of Yun Xiao¡¯s rapid gain in power was something many had not yet fully grasped.

    "Alright then, we''ll meet againter," Yun Xiao said.

    "Here, take this flying talisman. Contact me anytime if you need to." Liu Mumu handed over some talisman papers.

    Yun Xiao carefully stored the flying talismans.

    "One more thing, I heard someone was struck dead by the Thunder Immortal Formation during the day. Turns out it might be Lord Lu," Liu Mumu said, her gaze turning peculiar as she looked at Yun Xiao. "This has nothing to do with you, right?"

    Yun Xiao chuckled dryly. "How could it? I am a Rank 9 Arbiter Initiate of the Celestial Court, an enforcer of itsws and decrees. I never murder without reason."

    "Oh please," Liu Mumu scoffed, now certain of the situation. She seriously added, "Now, only Madame Lu remains in Lord Lu¡¯s household. She¡¯s a vindictive one. When she hears about Lord Lu¡¯s death by the Thunder Immortal Formation, I fear she¡¯ll suspect you, potentially harming Miss Yu, especially since Lord Lu came here to intercept you."

    "Then move my mother to safety as soon as possible. When I find the time, I''ll return and deal with that woman." Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes hardened.

    "Didn¡¯t you just say you never murder?" Liu Mumu looked at him with a teasing smile.

    "Without reason!" Yun Xiao added, then he urged, "Just hurry back, as fast as you can!"

    "All right," Liu Mumu said, turning to leave. After a few steps, she looked back, her expression serious. "I know you possess incredible talent and that you''re a clever child, but still, I must remind you never to underestimate your enemies. You''ve gained a certain status now; always leave a way out in your dealings..."

    "I got it," Yun Xiao waved dismissively, "You sound just like my mother, always fussing."

    The words caught even him by surprise.

    His memories of his biological mother had paused at the age of twelve, somewhat distant now. In his recollections, she was a gentle and kind empress,passionate toward her people.

    Fussing, after all, often stemmed from love.

    "Life is just so," Yun Xiao suddenly said with a self-mockingugh. "Once gone, it will never return."

    "..." Liu Mumu''s body trembled slightly. Perhaps she, too, was reminded of someone she had lost.

    "Goodbye, Lu Yao."

    With those words, she turned and vanished into the lightning, like a trivial speck of dust lost in the tumultuous storm of the world.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On the other side of the Nine Thunders Arena, a woman in a peach dress hovered amidst the lightning.

    Beside her floated a young man in white. His long hair cascaded down like a waterfall, his features were delicate, his lips slightly thin, and his eyes shone bright as stars. Clearly, he was of noble birth.

    "Mo Ruoyu," the girl in the peach dress nced at the young man in white and spoke softly, "I heard your Grand Firmament Academy was quite lively this afternoon."

    "Lively?" Mo Ruoyu shrugged. "It wasn''t much, just felt a bit unfair."

    "You dare to use the Supreme General of being unfair?" the girl in the peach dress eximed.

    "What else is there to say?" Mo Ruoyu smiled coldly, then shook his head. "Somebody just randomly adopts a sworn son, and it seems like they''ve gained advantage. It feels childish, as if the efforts of so many young Arbiters from our academy mean nothing."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Indeed." The girl in the peach dress nodded.

    "To put it inly," Mo Ruoyu continued with a lightugh, "the only standard in the Thunder Department is fairness. So, even if someone tries to game the system, when the tide recedes, their inadequacies will be exposed."

    "How do you n to make the tide recede?" the girl asked curiously.

    "What do you think?" Mo Ruoyu shrugged. "Whack-a-mole, that''s all. Once he''s hammered down and bleeding, he won''t dare to show his face again."

    "From what you''re saying, nearly a thousand young Arbiters from your Grand Firmament Academy are ready to take on this challenge?" The girl looked amused as she spoke, then smirked, "It''s quite fitting you call him a mole, a creature that really doese from the dirt."

    "Don''t exaggerate," Mo Ruoyu replied calmly. "Everyone just wants a fair chance, that''s all."

    The girl in the peach dress asked curiously, "But the Supreme General himself came to watch this mole perform. Doesn''t your Grand Firmament Academy''s action amount to challenging him? Didn''t Lightning Lord Bo Hong try stop you?"

    Mo Ruoyu nced at her and responded in a quiet tone, "Why ask such a trivial question? Do you really think the Thunder Department is ruled by the Supreme General alone? After all, the Lightning Lord is a disciple of the Nine Thunders Sovereign."

    The girl in the peach dress chuckled softly without saying more, whispering to herself, "What a spectacle, quite the drama."

    As the two were speaking, suddenly, the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings flickered with electric sparks, and two names rang out along with the sound of thunder.

    "Mo Ruoyu and Lu Yao, proceed to Thundercloud 103!"

    Upon hearing their names, the participants had 30 breaths to enter the arena, or they would be treated as having surrendered.

    "Eh?" Mo Ruoyu thought he had misheard, and upon checking the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings, he confirmed it. He chuckled wryly. "Ah, what a coincidence this is!"

    "Wow, you''re about to be a celebrity in the Thunder Department!" the girl in the peach dress teased with a gentleugh.

    "Ha." Mo Ruoyu shrugged helplessly.

    "Brother Mo!"

    Several talented Arbiters around them looked at Mo Ruoyu with smiling eyes.

    "After the match, let''s go forte-night snacks. My treat," Mo Ruoyuughed.

    "Long live Brother Mo!"

    The Arbiters from the Grand Firmament Academy allughed.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Atop the Celestial Thunder tform, General Cao heard thebat lineup and turned back to the Nine Heavens Thunder Duke, who was dozing off. "Supreme General, Lu Yao is entering the battle."

    "Oh?" The hawk-nosed old man with thunderous wings on his back shook his head slightly. "Who¡¯s the opponent?"

    General Cao nced and said, "It''s the beloved son of Thunder Emissary Mo."

    "Ruoyu, ah, a fine seedling." The Supreme General smiled as he mentioned his name.

    Sitting below Bo Hong, a schrly-looking middle-aged man with a fair face and a valiant appearance stood up quickly. "General, indeed, it is my son, Ruoyu."

    "Ruoyu has reached the Establishment Divine Self Realm, hasn¡¯t he? This battle might be tough for Lil Cao¡¯s foster son," the Supreme General said with a smile.

    Thunder Emissary Mo hurriedly responded, "My son is dull, far inferior to General Cao''s formidable foster son."

    Hearing this, the Supreme Generalughed. "Don''t be insincere. Excessive modesty isn''t great either. Isn''t that right, Lil Cao?"

    General Cao quickly added, "In the Thunder Department selection, fairness, and justice prevail. Regardless of victory or defeat, doing one''s best is enough."

    "Fair point, Lil Mo, take your seat." The Supreme General nodded sagely, his deep gaze falling on Thundercloud 103, and he suddenly eximed, "Those two jade amulets on his waist¡­ Did you and your wife give them to him?"

 Chapter 569: A Clear Night Before a Downpour

    Chapter 569: A Clear Night Before a Downpour

    General Cao paused for a moment, his gaze drifting to the woman in a blue gown beside him, Gu Suwan.

    Gu Suwan pursed her lips and said, ¡°I gave it to him, but he didn¡¯t hang it up.¡±

    Hearing this, the crowd exchanged strange looks. Was this young man so eager to show off now that he had climbed so high? Such an attitude was notmendable in the world of Immortals.

    Meanwhile, Thunder Emissary Mo watched the scene with modesty on his face butughter in his heart.

    "The Supreme General wants to quickly elevate Cao Sheng''s position. But he can¡¯t push things too far, or else he might irritate the Nine Thunders Sovereign. Then, both him and Cao Sheng will suffer the consequences.¡±

    Whether Yun Xiao was a mule or a horse still remained uncertain. The defeat of Dongfang Yong meant absolutely nothing in the scope of the whole selection. He still had to contend against the Thunder Department''s core talent!

    And Mo Ruoyu happened to be the perfect candidate.

    Thinking this, Lightning Lord Bo Hong chuckled softly at Thunder Emissary Mo.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Thunder Emissary Mo simply smiled back.¡°The show begins now.¡±

    The Supreme General appeared particrly joyful tonight. His words shifted almost the entire focus of the Nine Thunders Arena to Thundercloud 103.

    All eyes were on Yun Xiao, d in his simple Arbiter armor.

    Facing him was Mo Ruoyu, in white garments dazzling with golden brilliance, each thread spun from precious gold used in crafting celestial weapons, creating a protective armor of stunning efficacy!

    In contrast, the Rank 9 Arbiter armor, though heroic, was materially inferior.

    In this fight, the Arbiter armor provided no protection at all.

    Such was the gap between the two!

    Mo Ruoyu was already a Rank 7 Sky Protector. His cultivation was simr to that of Liu Mumu, and he was just shy of 30 years old. His profound background clearly distinguished him.

    Yet, in terms of transcendental and outstanding appearance, this well-known handsome scion of the Thunder Department was utterly overshadowed.

    The only difort Mo Ruoyu felt was in this ironicparison, where this backwater prairie dog that had popped out of nowhere appeared more handsome than him.

    Amid the focused gaze of the crowd, Mo Ruoyu raised his eyebrows slightly and nced at the jade pendants at Yun Xiao''s waist, murmuring, "Congrattions, Brother Lu. I see you couldn''t wait to tell the whole world the favor bestowed upon you."

    Yun Xiao, unfamiliar with the man, simply replied, "Let''s begin."

    "No rush, no rush. Let me introduce myself first," Mo Ruoyu said, a smile ying on his lips as if he was holding backughter. With a somewhat insincere bow, he continued, "I am Mo Ruoyu, son of Mo Yun, merely a Chief Military Thunder Emissary, and a direct subordinate of your foster father."

    "One of our own?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Mo Ruoyu couldn''t help butugh softly, "Yes, one of your own. So, please be gentle with me, and spare me some dignity."

    "Fair enough." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Eh?" Mo Ruoyu hadn''t expected his joke to be taken seriously. He chuckled, adding, "You know, I''m also currently studying at the Grand Firmament Academy."

    "Oh? You must be quite the genius." Yun Xiao''s lips curled slightly.

    "My talents are modest, not worth mentioning," Mo Ruoyu replied humbly.

    His smile turned peculiar as he looked at Yun Xiao. Then, he suddenly remarked, "I heard you hail from Sky Soaring City. You have a brother who''s also a Rank 9 Arbiter, and you two are taking care of your frail, old mother. I''d like to pay my respects to her one day, and I bet many others here would too."

    Yun Xiao replied with a smile, "What, are you digging up my ancestry over a mere fight?"

    "Not at all." Mo Ruoyuughed, shaking his head. "Don''t misunderstand. In the Thunder Department, everyone''s background and experiences are open secrets; no need for me to investigate anything, everyone knows. I hear when your mother cries, her tears are ck. That''s quite the curiosity."

    "..." The smile slowly faded from Yun Xiao''s face. He felt it was getting a bit dull.

    "Oh, please don''t be upset, I didn''t mean to threaten you..." Mo Ruoyu quickly feigned nervousness. Then, with a grin, he added, "I just wanted to say, no matter how many jade pendants a mole drags out of the mud, it can''t wash away the stench of dirt clinging to it."

    "You have a way with words, quite the talent." Yun Xiao shook his head andughed.

    "..." Mo Ruoyu paused, impressed. This young man''sposure was remarkable; even such teasing didn''t rile him? Then it was no fun!

    He wanted to say more, but then he saw Yun Xiao suddenly look up in the direction of the Celestial Thunder tform.

    "It seems like the Cao couple has been living toofortably. As their new foster son, shouldn''t I stir things up a bit?"

    "Sounds like a great n?" Blue Star chimed in.

    "So, what sort of trouble do you want to stir for them?" Mo Ruoyu asked, slightly stunned.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao suddenly soared into the air!

    With all eyes on him, a violet dragon roared at the center of his brow, violet dragon patterns swiftly swirling around his body, condensing into dense shadows of violet dragon scales on his face and neck!

    This was a form of the Prison Warden Sigil¡ªDao Dragon!

    In that instant, storms gathered and thunder raced across his frame.

    "Still too green. Guess thatposed act earlier was all for nothing." Mo Ruoyu smirked, augh escaping him once more.

    Yun Xiao''s thunder-filled eyes fixed on him! Amid the storm, the youth murmured, "Misty Rebirth, Clear Night."

    As the chant resonated in the air, Yun Xiao raised his hands high in the sky. His long raven-ck hair burst outward, and his body became enveloped in countless azure-violet currents which swirled like thunder dragons.

    Thunder roared, heralding his descent like a god of thunder!

    <em>BOOM! </em>From his body, violet lightning spread widely in all directions.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Centered around him, in the sky above the Thundercloud 103, with the violet dragon as its spine, in an instant, tens of thousands of fist-sized azure-violet orbs of lightning condensed!

    Each orb, like a drop of rain, trembled not with thunder but with the roar of dragons!

    Lightning stormed down like rain!

    Within this storm, Yun Xiao¡¯s hands moved like vasts, controlling all the orbs of lightning!

    All the orbs, treating him as their deity, whirled and howled, unleashing billions of lightning serpents that nketed the sky!

    "That''s Misty Rebirth!"

    The name of the celestial technique,pletely mismatching the divine prowess disyed, was shouted in awe by countless Thunder Department celestial officials.

    Yun Xiao, having been mocked earlier for wearing those two jade pendants, now stood, not even an hour since acquiring them, unleashing Misty Rebirth. He became the sole, blindingly brilliant focus of the entire Nine Thunders Arena.

    "What in the world?" Mo Ruoyu was stunned. His bewildered gaze met Yun Xiao''s indifferent, god-like thunderous eyes.

    In the next instant, the most ferocious thunderstorm with the roar of a heavenly dragon, unleashed its wrath upon Mo Ruoyu like a pinpoint deluge!

    Rather than saying the droplets of lightning sprinkled down, it was more like the rain smashed down; no, thundered down!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>This was a true thunderstorm, a relentless barrage of shing and crashing that swallowed Mo Ruoyu in an instant!

    "NO! NO! NOOO¡­!" Mo Ruoyu screamed in terror, frantically deploying all his techniques and Life Sigil, but under Yun Xiao¡¯s devastating thunderstorm, his efforts were utterly dim and ineffective, like a petty and sharp-tongued jester!

    This moment truly dered the superior from the inferior!

    "GAHHH!"

    This graceful and esteemed son of a Rank 4 Thunder Emissary, a prodigy of the Grand Firmament Academy, was reduced to nothing more than dust! He met a desperate and dismal end under the unrelenting thunder.

    <em>BUZZ!! </em>Mo Rouyu was annihted in both body and soul, leaving nothing but a scorch mark on the floor of the thundercloud stage.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The aftershocks of Misty Rebirth continued to bombard the area where Mo Ruoyu had stood, sting a hole in the stage below, as if unleashing a torrent of pent-up fury!

    When all the orbs of lightning had exploded, the thunderous power around Yun Xiao finally calmed. His long hair fell around his shoulders, and his eyes cleared.

    Yet, the entire Nine Thunders Arena fell into a deathly silence, many participants were even distracted, faces frozen in astonishment.

    In this utter silence, Yun Xiao raised his head, calmly surveying the tens of thousands of stunned onlookers.

    He took a deep breath and slowly said, "I wonder if everyone heard, just now this person mocked me as a mole, belittled my origins, threatened my mother, and trampled my dignity.

    "Yes, it''s true, Ie from humble beginnings, my family is poor, and I have nothing to rely on but myself. I¡¯vee this far on my own!

    "Now, thanks to the generous love of General Cao and his wife, I have the privilege to step onto the stage, to fight for my identity and my dreams. I am profoundly grateful to them and hold immense respect for them!

    "We cannot choose our origins, but we can decide what kind of person we want to be! Beyond talent and background, what I most desire is to be an Arbiter who guards justice, who strives for true fairness and integrity, upholding the celestialws!

    "I am willing to be such an upright Arbiter, not one who sits high, privileged, looking down on others, or even threatening, demeaning, and trampling others for a sense of petty satisfaction. I detest such people and will never associate with them!

    "Finally, my name is Lu Yao! I came to the Thunder Department to right all wrongs!"

 Chapter 570: Justice, Sin, and Society

    Chapter 570: Justice, Sin, and Society

    Yun Xiao''s voice boomed, apanied by the crackling thunder snakes of the Thunder Immortal Formation, echoing across the Nine Thunders Arena,

    His initial words revealed the true spirit of an Arbiter within him, yet his final deration of righting all wrongs exposed his nature¡ªproud and fierce.

    This temperament was in stark contrast to his otherworldly, carefree appearance!

    And in this moment, amid the dazzling lightning, his form and spirit merged perfectly.

    First came righteousness, then defiance. Hisst, arrogant remark caught everyone off guard. That very statement still echoed over the arena, etching itself into many hearts.

    At first, the tens of thousands of onlookers fell silent. Then, the reactions varied¡ªsome remained quiet, othersughed, some shook their heads, and some sighed.

    Clearly, in the sacred Thunder Department, such bravado was not seen as intelligent, but rather as a foolish, childish way to make enemies. It sounded spirited, but utterly pointless.

    The Celestial Court was awork of rtionships; making enemies everywhere meant losing the society¡¯s tacit understanding and trust. So much so, that anyone considering befriending Yun Xiao had to weigh how many they might offend by association.

    In short, being an enemy of the social order was the greatest mistake of anyone¡¯s life!And when Yun Xiao disappointed everyone, suddenly, a thunderousughter rang down from the Celestial Thunder tform.

    It was a familiar voice. The voice of the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General, the Archduke of Thunder Dukes, the Supreme Overseer of All Thunder, charged with maintaining the stability of the mortal realms.

    Simply put, he was the head of the <em>mortal affairs</em> of the Thunder Department.

    "Excellent!" The Supreme General eximed, shifting the atmosphere to one of odd fascination.

    "Well said!" He pped the armrest, his gaze settling on Yun Xiao, and dered, "Your words should make those who still nder and doubt you feel ashamed."

    Hearing this, the crowd fell silent again. Many exchanged looks, their expressions now even more peculiar.

    "Now, get off the stage!" The Supreme General waved his hand with a chuckle. With that, his appraisal of Yun Xiao halted abruptly at that.

    "Thank you, Supreme General." Yun Xiao bowed respectfully, then descended from the thunder pool battlefield under the gaze of tens of thousands, all wearing peculiar expressions.

    The atmosphere in the Nine Thunders Arena turned even stranger.

    Many silently nced at Thunder Emissary Mo Yun.

    "Supreme General, I must return home to manage affairs and take my leave now," Mo Yun said, his expression calm. He stood, bowed, and without waiting for a response, turned and departed.

    Throughout this, he did not once look at General Cao or Gu Suwan.

    "Supreme General, the academy calls me on urgent matters; I too must take my leave," Thunder Lord Bo Hong announced, rising promptly with an unfazed expression.

    "Go if you wish; no need for formalities." The Supreme General gestured dismissively.

    "Yes." Bo Hong nodded, then transformed into a tri-colored lightning bolt and vanished into the daylight.

    Following this, numerous high officials of the Thunder Department began to leave.

    At least 30 departed first, those who remained were mostly silent, their faces seemingly veiled in ayer of lightning, inscrutable.

    "This is pointless, I''m leaving too," the Supreme General said, rising from his seat.

    "Farewell, Supreme General," the high officials on the Celestial Thunder tform stood and said in unison.

    With a crackle of thunder, the Supreme General vanished instantly. After his departure, the atmosphere on the Celestial Thunder tform turned utterly cold.

    "What a disy," some high officials murmured as they left, each with a sardonic chuckle.

    "Frightening."

    "He hasn''t even reached Rank 2, and he''s already covering the sky with one hand?"

    "Right all wrongs? What wrongs does he intend to right, those of the Nine Thunders Sovereign?"

    "Pfft!"

    With the Supreme General gone, the officials spoke more freely¡ªalmost all were high-ranking officials from noble families.

    Their departing nces at General Cao made clear their disdain.

    Soon, the Celestial Thunder tform was nearly empty, with just over thirty high officials remaining, scattered about, silently watching the continuation of the Thunder Department selection, barely speaking at all.

    General Cao clutched the armrests, veins bulging on his neck, his eyes fixated on Yun Xiao as he walked away.

    "In a friendly sparring match, to kill and threaten, creating a blood feud..." His eyes shifted to Gu Suwan at his side. "Tell me, is he deliberately provoking me, or is it just youthful folly?"

    Gu Suwan''s eyes sparkled coldly with the fury of a storm. "The former is his primary motive, with youthful folly adding fuel in the heat of the moment."

    "He''s not just an ungrateful wretch; he''s a viper." General Cao shook his head, his gaze chilling. "He didn''t even y the part of a good son for me."

    At least a thankless wretch would need nurturing. But he''d be a farmer who saved a snake, only for it to bite him in return.

    "I can''t understand it. I''ve been good to him. Why didn''t he y along? He could have gained something." Gu Suwan frowned, perplexed.

    Their interactions had seemed natural and harmonious.

    "Could this boy really be a foolish boar, driven by adolescent passion?" Gu Suwan shook her head in disbelief.

    "Enough," General Cao''s voice deepened, his tone icy. "Since this disaster fell into myp, I''ve reaped no benefits, only been pushed into opposition with many. If he''s trouble, let''s rid ourselves of him sooner rather thanter."

    "What do you suggest?" Gu Suwan asked seriously.

    "Have someone kill him and deliver his soul to Mo Yun''s estate," General Cao said.

    "We must act quickly," Gu Suwan responded.

    "Make the arrangements," General Caomanded. He wasn''t afraid of Mo Yun, but rather of the repercussions from the departure of over 60 high officials of the Thunder Department that day.

    "Those who left before the Supreme General were giving me a stern warning. They''re against me, not even sparing the Supreme General''s dignity. And those who left after the Supreme General are disappointed in us as well."

    In General Cao''s eyes, a murderous intent brewed, amidst the swirling thunder snakes.

    This was the consequence of killing during the selection of the Thunder Department.

    Killing a lowlymoner would go unnoticed. But openly ughtering the progeny of one of the 100 high-officials of the Thunder Department broke the unspoken agreement of their bureaucratic solidarity, outwardly banning infighting.

    This was especially true when it came to harming each other''s offspring. Such deeds were done by none. Doing so would result in a death feud and social suicide.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign considered this the greatest taboo!

    Breaking this rule meant that not even the Supreme General''s intervention could redeem the offender.

    And so, even if it were his own blood-rted son who created such a mess, General Cao might have considered the unthinkable¡ªjustice over kinship.

    At this moment, the strange atmosphere enveloping the Nine Thunders Arena was a silent protest against General Cao.

    People weren''t targeting Yun Xiao, for despite his talents, he was but a minor character with no backing, his life hanging by a thread at all times.

    Their protest aimed to see General Cao make amends, show repentance; if he continued in his ways, he himself would have to pay the price.

    Take Jiang Taiping, for example, sweating profusely at this very moment.

    He had followed Yun Xiao back to the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion.

    "Lu Yao, we need to talk!" Jiang Taiping called out sternly.

    Yun Xiao turned, noting his ashen face, and asked, "Governor Jiang, what''s the matter?"

    Jiang Taiping strode up, grasped his hand, and said slowly, emphasizing every word, "Do you truly not realize how foolish your actions are?"

    Yun Xiao chuckled. "You exaggerate, rest assured, it''s nothing."

    "Eh..." Jiang Taiping looked at Yun Xiao, whose face was nonchnt, and felt as though a boulder blocked his throat, rendering him speechless.

    He had wanted to speak harshly, but recalling his daughter''s troubling news just before he left, his heart sank, nearly making him sick with frustration.

    He and Yun Xiao were inextricably linked now!

    If General Cao were angered by this, Jiang Taiping would be the first to fall.

    Jiang Taiping, in a plea, advised, "Every official of the Thunder Department Rank 4 or higher is backed by generations of Heavenly Officers. The connections and support behind each one extends far beyond your imagination. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "The Celestial Court is not just an assembly of individuals; it''s a vastwork of power that covers the heavens. By breaking the rules, killing indiscriminately, and brazenly threatening the entire Thunder Department, you''re not just endangering yourself; you¡¯re endangering everyone connected to you¡ªincluding your mother, Liu Mumu, your brother, and even all the citizens of Sky Soaring City!"

    "Is it really that extreme?" Yun Xiao asked with a face full of apology. "Sorry, I lost my head in the heat of the moment and didn¡¯t consider all this."

    Hearing this, Jiang Taiping looked at Yun Xiao as if struck by lightning, stunned by his foolishness. <em>How can someone be so foolish?</em>

    "But you¡¯re just trying to scare me, right? Where did I challenge the entire Thunder Department? I merely said I aim to be an upright and just Arbiter. Does that constitute a challenge to the entire Thunder Department?" Yun Xiao shook his head in disbelief.

    "..." Jiang Taiping found himself speechless.

    "Rx." Yun Xiao pped him on the shoulder with augh. "Who is my foster father? The Summer Thunder Duke! He''s Mo Ruoyu''s direct superior. Killing that kid was like ughtering a chicken for me. You''re so tense. Would my foster father fear a minor Rank 4 Heavenly Officer? You''re also Rank 4; I mean, if I killed your daughter, it wouldn''t be a big deal, right?"

    "Enough, don¡¯t say any more." Jiang Taiping sighed deeply. By this point, he realized that he and Cao Sheng were in deep trouble. He turned to leave and said, "Lu Yao, take a rest."

    "Wait," Yun Xiao suddenly called out.

    "What is it?" Jiang Taiping turned back, asking tly.

    "Could you send your daughters to my cultivation chamber?" Yun Xiao paused, then looked at Jiang Taiping with a slow, subtle smile. "They are quite refreshing."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The second round of selections continued in the Nine Thunders Arena.

    As the selection progressed, the number of contenders dwindled, each round grew shorter, and the pace of the entire selection quickened.

    With Yun Xiao and the Supreme General gone, few of the 100 high-officials of the Thunder Department remained, yet the atmosphere on the battlefield still thrummed with peculiarity.

    Many whispered among themselves.

    "I heard many showed their disapproval to General Cao this time."

    "No matter how talented, if onecks sense, that stinks too..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 571: Tragedy of Love

    Chapter 571: Tragedy of Love

    "Does General Cao not grasp this simplest of truths? Maybe he got too ahead of himself again and acted too hastily?"

    "Who knew that today, Lu Yao would soar so high, embodying the very essence of a lowly man reaching heights unimagined..."

    "What more can you expect from a bumpkin?"

    "Below his neck, Lu Yao is world-ss."

    "Haha!"

    Among the crowd, Gu Sutao, the girl in the peach dress listened to the conversations around her, her expression deep and unreadable. "That wretched mole, knocking over myte-night snack."

    Just then, an old woman appeared beside the girl in the peach dress.

    "Young miss, I have news," the old woman whispered, her eyes hollow yet piercing.

    "Speak," Gu Sutaomanded, arms crossed.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om"As you directed, we''ve looked into Sky Soaring City and made a grand discovery!" The old woman looked around, ensuring their privacy, then whispered, "Princess Divine Dawn was reborn in Sky Soaring City, and Lu Yao appeared there during that same period too. You asked me to check if he had anypanions, and interestingly, he did."

    "It wasn''t a beautiful mystery woman behind a mask, was it?" Gu Sutao raised an eyebrow.

    "Oh?" The old woman looked at her anew. "Young mistress, divining the future, are you?"

    Gu Sutao smirked. "Apanion, remarkable yet unseen, can only mean she was concealed."

    "You mean to say, Lu Yao''spanion was none other than Princess Divine Dawn? These two, seemingly unrted, are actually connected?" the old woman gasped in surprise.

    "The world''s filled with oddities; this hardly makes the list." Gu Sutao chuckled.

    "And Lu Yao, he''s not one to be trifled with..." the old woman stated gravely.

    Gu Sutaoughed softly, her voice chilling. "Tell me, how does a reborn princess simply vanish? Was her previous death real or staged? Whom did she offend to now hide like a rat crossing the street?"

    With a cold smile, she continued, "This young princess is na?ve, bearing the same foolish air as Lu Yao. Whether it''s the princess in the Celestial Court or Lu Yao in the Thunder Department, do you think they stand a chance?"

    "True, those who ce themselves upon the fire need not be touched; they''ll roast all on their own." The old woman chuckled grimly.

    Remembering something, she added, "Young miss, do you wonder about the nature of Lu Yao''s rtionship with his mysteriouspanion?"

    The girl in the peach dress posed the question, "They''re iming to be... a married couple, right?"

    "You''ve guessed right again!" the old woman eximed with endless praise. "You''ve always been sharp, even as a child."

    The girl rolled her eyes dismissively. After a brief pause, her eyes sparkled with cunning. "Spread a rumor for me¡ªsay someone saw with their own eyes, Princess Divine Dawn in Sky Soaring City, sharing intimate moments with a young man named Lu Yao."

    "..." The old woman frowned, puzzled.

    With a secretive smile, Gu Sutao hinted, "I believe someone is out to kill Princess Divine Dawn."

    "So, many wille sniffing around this boy for clues?" the old woman asked.

    "Exactly." Gu Sutao nodded.

    "What''s in it for us?" the old woman inquired.

    Rolling her eyes again, Gu Sutaoined, "Damn it, myst trip to the mortal realm to collect offerings was sabotaged, and now I have to reapply, who knows how long that queue will be!"

    "And so?"

    "If any interested party confirms the link between Lu Yao and Divine Dawn, they''ll trace the rumor back to its source. I''ll give them an address in exchange for ten opportunities to collect offerings... My father will handle it. Ten offerings should cover it, right?"

    "It most certainly will." The old woman smiled wryly. She couldn''t help but remark, "Young miss, you are indeed cunning."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back In Sky Soaring City¡­

    "Miss Yu." Liu Mumu, d in splendid armor, gently pushed open the wooden gate of the courtyard.

    Inside, a woman in simple clothes was tending to her garden and celestial pigs.

    Hearing the sound, she quickly stood up, adjusted her attire, and came forward with a smile. "Commander Liu, you¡¯re here? Please, have a seat."

    "I''ll stand," Liu Mumu said as she approached and took the woman''s hands in hers, speaking softly, "I''d like to take you out for a bit of fun, would you like that?"

    The woman in simple clothes was startled. Her anxiety quickly mounted. "D-did my sons offend someone outside?"

    "No." Liu Mumu tightened her grip reassuringly. "They haven¡¯t offended anyone. Actually, there¡¯s great news. Lu Yao went to the Thunder Department for the selection, didn¡¯t he? He''s performed remarkably well, and a high-ranking official from the Thunder Department has taken a keen interest in him. This is well-known throughout Sky Soaring City now. Lu Yao is quite the talk of the town."

    "Really?" Miss Yu''s disbelief made her feel as if she were dreaming.

    "Yes, so he specifically asked me to look after you, to prevent anyone from harming you out of jealousy," Liu Mumu exined, then pleaded, "To help Lil Yao continue with his duties without worry, would you apany me for a few days of respite?"

    "Sure, sure. How could it not be fine?" Miss Yu quickly replied.

    "Then shall we go now?" Liu Mumu asked.

    "But what about my celestial pigs, my vegetables..." Miss Yu expressed her dilemma.

    "Never mind them," Liu Mumu said, halfughing, half crying.

    "Alright... then can I bring something with me?" Miss Yu asked.

    "Just a few things."

    "I''ll just take one item."

    Miss Yu said, going back towards the tomb area, she carefully wrapped up Lu Bufan''s que, murmuring, "Some are jealous of Lil Yao, I fear they might destroy this, so I''ll move it for now. Don¡¯t be upset."

    With the tomb que in hand, the two set out.

    Just then, a group of people appeared outside. Leading them was a woman, disheveled, with swollen red eyes and a deathly pale face!

    At first nce, it was hard to tell, but it was indeed Madame Lu.

    "Where are you going?" Madame Lu¡¯s voice was as cold as ice.

    "What¡¯s it to you?" Liu Mumu paused, then said, "Step aside."

    "You can go, but she cannot," Madame Lu dered.

    "Madame. Lu Yao is now the foster son of the Summer Thunder Duke of the Thunder Department, and you know just how elevated his status is. I''m taking Miss Yu to enjoy some good fortune. Would you dare block us, risking theplete ruin of thest foundations of the Lu Immortal Manor?" Liu Mumu spoke coldly.

    Hearing this, Madame Lu¡¯s face twisted in anger.

    "The foster son of a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer¡­" Miss Yu, hearing this, was also somewhat bewildered.

    "Move aside." Liu Mumu didn¡¯t spare Madame Lu any pleasantries, she simply led Miss Yu past her, while those behind Madame Lu hurriedly made way, their eyes filled withplex emotions as they looked at Miss Yu.

    They were all from the Lu Immortal Manor, having witnessed many of Miss Yu¡¯s tragedies!

    Yet today, this woman who had suffered so much, in this moment, seemed to surpass even Madame Lu herself.

    As Miss Yu''s son ascended to the pinnacle, Madame Lu''s husband and two children were wiped from existence¡ªa stark contrast that made the judgment of their worth immediate and harsh.

    This was the vengeance Yun Xiao exacted for Lu Yao.

    Liu Mumu witnessed this scene, her heart awash with countless emotions. That young man, at the very least, proved worthy of the name Lu Yao...

    As she passed Madame Lu, Liu Mumu remembered something chilling. Turning back with a cold voice, she said to Madame Lu, "I''ve heard from Lu An that you were the one who blinded Miss Yu. Just wait, your retribution wille."

    "Commander Liu, it''s alright, let bygones be bygones... It''s better to be kind," Miss Yu hastily said.

    Despite being so mistreated, she still spoke in defense of Madame Lu. Why was there such a vast gulf between the benevolent and the wicked?

    Liu Mumu couldn''t understand it.

    All she wanted was to take Miss Yu and leave this ce forever.

    "Liu Mumu!" Madame Lu suddenlyughed¡ªa fierce, uglyugh.

    "I was on my way to see the Longevity Immortal, and my husband gave me a flying talisman, sharing some amusing news. Want to hear it?" Madame Lu''sugh was grotesque, both in sound and sight.

    Liu Mumu frowned, ignoring her words, and continued walking away.

    "Lu An is dead!" Madame Lu shrieked.

    At those words, Liu Mumu stopped in her tracks, closing her eyes.

    Beside her, Miss Yu, walking along, suddenly sank to her knees, bowed her head, and ck tears streamed down once again. Perhaps, she had sensed this wasing. When someone else uttered the news, it was as if the sky had shattered and the earth had split asunder.

    "You must have guessed he was dead, but you surely didn''t know who actually killed him!" Madame Lu cackled madly.

    "Miss Yu, let''s go." Liu Mumu helped Miss Yu up and, turning their backs to Madame Lu, they started to walk away.

    "You can''t run from the truth!" Madame Lu''s face twisted grotesquely, her eyes piercing as she shrieked with a sharp, maniacalughter.

    "The one who killed Lu An was none other than your own father, Liu Zongyu! He confessed it before my husband!"

    Her words struck like thunder, halting Liu Mumu and Miss Yu in their tracks.

    "Don''t believe her lies." Liu Mumu gripped Miss Yu''s hand tightly, her own face trembling.

    Yet, Madame Lu continued her ghastly grin, shouting, "Do you know why your father wanted him dead? Because you fancied that Lu family reject! You caused his death, do you understand? Ady of your standing, ying a forbidden romance with a pauper? You killed him with your own hands, do you understand?"

    After her tirade, she mocked Miss Yu further, "How pitiful, will you leave with the murderer of your son? How would Lu An view you as a mother from the underworld?"

    "Shut up!!" Liu Mumu broke down, tears streaming down her face.

    "You still don''t believe it? Then let me tell you the details!"

    Madame Luughed wildly, her voice chillingly cold, "First, your father sent him on a dangerous mission far away, arranged an assassination, but he survived and returned to Sky Soaring City with some intriguing news. No choice then, your father had to have him killed a second time! And this time, he didn''te back!

    "Liu Mumu, do you believe it now?

    "If not, it doesn''t matter. Go home, ask your father, ask your brother to tell you how desperately Lu An died! Your love murdered an ordinary man!

    "Liu Mumu, your life is truly tragic. You''re made a fool by your father and brother, still believing in them, what a joke, haha..."

 Chapter 572: The Truth Will Set You Free!

    Chapter 572: The Truth Will Set You Free!

    In the southern district of Sky Soaring City, there was a secluded courtyard.

    Liu Mumu, with tender care, led Miss Yu to this ce.

    The courtyard was alive with fresh vegetation, obviously tended by careful hands, and the guest lodgings looked new, decorated with warmth and meticulousness.

    Standing amidst the greenery, Liu Mumu''s voice choked up, "This ce was arranged by Lu An. He nned to fetch you from the Lu Immortal Manor soon, to surprise you¡­"

    Miss Yu leaned on the pavilion, easing herself onto a bench, her trembling fingers reaching out to touch everything around her¡ªthe pirs, the stone table, the fragrance of nts filling the air¡­

    Though she could no longer see, the image of her eldest son appeared in her heart, bringing a surge of sorrow she could only bear in silence.

    "Miss Yu, this is your new home. Besides me and Lu An, no one knows about this ce. Let us stay here for a while," Liu Mumu murmured, her voice still trembling, each word seemingly draining her strength.

    At this point, she could no longer contain herself and knelt before Miss Yu, tears flowing, "I am sorry, so very sorry to you and to Lu An. Forgive me!"

    "Commander Liu¡­" Miss Yu quickly felt for her, grasping her arm and pulling her to her feet, shaking her head. "Don''t me yourself. You don''t bear guilt. If his spirit is still out there, he would not me you either¡­ This is not your fault."The turmoil within Liu Mumu was palpable. "Please rest assured, Miss Yu. Regardless of whether what Madame Lu said is true, I will find out everything and give you both an answer."

    Miss Yu shook her head, her face marked with grief. "Let it be, let it be. Even if it is as she said, what can you do?"

    "I¡­" Liu Mumu felt a sharp pain in her heart. She really didn''t know what to do next. But looking up, seeing Miss Yu trying to hide her broken heart, a surge of vengeance rose within her.

    Liu Mumu had found her resolve. She gripped Miss Yu''s hand with a newfound determination.

    "Heaven and earth have their own sense of justice, and evil will always meet its end. I have no other desires in this life but to bring justice for Lu An, even if it costs me myst breath," Liu Mumu dered.

    After speaking, she rose to her feet, her mind set. "Miss Yu, you stay here and find peace. I need to return to the Liu estate. No matter what, we need to know the truth..."

    "No, no, please don''t put yourself in danger for me," Miss Yu pleaded in distress.

    "My mind is made up," Liu Mumu said firmly, clutching Miss Yu''s hand tighter before suddenly letting go and stepping back.

    "Don''t go..." Miss Yu murmured, her soul seeming to leave her as she sat back, shaking her head helplessly.

    Watching Miss Yu in this state only deepened Liu Mumu''s sense of guilt. Fortunately, at that moment, the image of a young boy shed through her mind. With him still around, no matter what she faced, at least there was someone who could look after Miss Yu in the future. What then was there to fear?

    With her heart chilled like frost, Liu Mumu left the courtyard and returned to the Liu estate. Upon her arrival, a servant hurried forward with a smile. "Miss, you¡¯re back from the Thunder Department?"

    "Where are my father and brother?" Liu Mumu asked coldly.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "You''re looking for them?" The servant scratched his head. "Unfortunately, they just stepped out."

    "Where did they go?" she pressed, frowning.

    "I don''t know. They took a sword vessel; they might be on a long trip. Perhaps they went to the Thunder Department and just missed you," the servant said with an awkward smile. "If it¡¯s urgent, you could send a flying talisman to them."

    Without needing his suggestion, Liu Mumu produced a special talisman from the Liu Family, a child-parent talisman set. Her father, Liu Zongyu, had the parent talisman, so her child talisman would automatically seek him out. But when she ignited the talisman, it circled above her head and then dimly fell to the ground, its magic extinguished.

    "Their journey must have taken them beyond the reach of the talisman." The servant chuckled foolishly. "Looks like they didn''t go to the Thunder Department."

    Liu Mumu gave him a cold stare and turned to leave, leaving the butler bewildered.

    "What¡¯s gotten into her today? Thedy seems out of sorts..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The evening of the next day settled over the Thunder Department.

    Within the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, in the Hall of Soaring Thunder, Yun Xiao sat cross-legged in his cultivation chamber, his eyes closed in deep meditation.

    A full day had passed since Yun Xiao had eliminated Mo Rouyu in the second round of the selection.

    Now, as nightfall approached once again, the rhythm of the selection quickened due to the dwindling number of participants.

    Throughout the day, Yun Xiao had faced three more elimination rounds. Including the battles against Dongfang Yong and Mo Ruoyu, he had now survived five rounds.

    Thepetition was more than halfway through. From nearly 10,000petitors at the start, each round had halved the participants. Now, after five rounds, only 288 prodigies remained to fight in the Nine Thunders Arena.

    From nearly 10,000 to 288, it meant that the vast majority of talented Arbiters had been eliminated. Starting with the sixth round, anyone who had made it this far would undoubtedly be among the elite of the Thunder Department.

    Among these 288 remaining, those who had advanced merely on luck were virtually non-existent. Of course, many seeded yers had also been eliminated early by stronger opponents.

    The Thunder Department aimed to filter out the top nine, each needing to secure nine consecutive victories. While five consecutive wins could include some lesspetent fighters, nine consecutive victories assured no weak links; after all, it was a series of duels, not team battles.

    "Just four more battles to go, likely finishing up tomorrow or the day after," Yun Xiao thought.

    After a grueling series of five battles, the selection paused, giving the remaining 288 elite geniuses a night to rest. As dawn broke the next day, the selection battles would continue.

    For Yun Xiao, nightfall was a rare opportunity for reflection and consolidation of his cultivation.

    Previously, Gu Suwan had gifted him 50,000 True Immortal Jades. There was still room for improvement. Returning to the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, Yun Xiao didn¡¯t pause for a moment, replenishing himself with the Tri Heaven Sariras and Origin Orbs that Red Moon and Blue Star produced.

    As dusk settled, Yun Xiao achieved a breakthrough.

    "Establishment Essence Manifestation Realm!"

    This was thest stage within the Essence Manifestation Realm.

    The next step would be uniting his spirit and will, the Divine Self Realm.

    Yun Xiao had little concept of this realm and knew he needed to contemte its mysteries.

    "How many more Tri Heaven Sariras and Origin Orbs are left? Let¡¯s see if I can ascend directly to the Divine Self Realm tonight," Yun Xiao asked the little ck creature lying on its back ying with its belly.

    "Huh?" Red Moon paused, baffled.

    Blue Star licked his lips and chuckled. "None left!"

    "None?" Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes widened as he grabbed their scruffs and lifted them to his face, his teeth gritted, "50,000 True Immortal Jades, and you''re telling me it''s all gone after just two batches?"

    Blue Star smiled sheepishly. "Don''t be hasty, you¡¯re in a precarious situation, so we skimmed some off the top, just in case."

    "Using that excuse again? Tell me, how much did you skim?" Yun Xiao demanded.

    Red Moon rolled his eyes, pretending to be dead.

    Blue Star wanted to do the same, but Yun Xiao forcibly pulled his eyelids open.

    "The truth will set you free, resistance will only make it worse."

    "Well... uhh¡­" Blue Star stuttered.

    "Out with it!"

    "Seventy to eighty percent!" Blue Star blurted in one breath.

    So, basically eighty percent!

    "Are you even human? Do you even have a conscience? Am I just a workhorse to you?" Yun Xiao said, exasperated.

    "We¡¯re not human," Red Moon stated matter-of-factly.

    "¡­"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 573: Sword Prison, Sword Suppression Gate!

    Chapter 573: Sword Prison, Sword Suppression Gate!

    Yun Xiao was out of options, and with a sigh of defeat he muttered, "Damn, I''m broke again!"

    He was rich one moment, then penniless the next.

    "Ah well, easye, easy go."

    Without any True Immortal Jades, Yun Xiao could only ponder the mysteries of the Divine Self Realm for now. Thinking of the fusion of spirit and will, his mind drifted to the Thunder Immortal Formation above his head!

    On a whim, Yun Xiao thought, "Let my spirit venture forth again, try to connect with this grand punitive formation."

    With that, he closed his eyes. In his Dantian, the miniature spirit sitting on the Sacred Wheel suddenly opened its eyes!

    With a thought, the spirit emerged from within Yun Xiao, leaving the cultivation chamber behind.

    Looking up, the Thunder Immortal Formation in the dark sky seemed even more magnificent!

    Above each person, a colossal pool of thunder weighed down.The ceaseless, deafening roar of thunder never stopped!

    "Let''s give myself a thunderous leap!" Yun Xiao''s spirit soared skyward. Though not as swift as before, he felt the formation''s pull.

    The process felt incredibly natural! His spirit, suffused enough to let the lightning seep through, transformed into a bolt of electricity, plunging into the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao was jolted awake. "That feeling, it''s here again..."

    It was a sensation of sudden expansiveness, as if his spirit had magnified infinitely, bing one with the heavens and the earth.

    But this time, Yun Xiao had learned to control it, his entire spirit much more rxed.

    "Perceive, control, merge, just don''t make a big scene."

    With these thoughts, the Thunder Immortal Formation, which was about to form a colossal face from thunderbolts, suddenly dissipated.

    To the onlookers, the formation merely shook and then was still.

    Yet, Yun Xiao had taken control again! He felt as though he had be a grand formation himself, his eyes immensely vast. Though not visibly manifested, he could see everything within the Thunder Department.

    Yun Xiao had a fierce confidence that with but a thought, he could wield the Thunder Immortal Formation to unleash divine thunderbolts, mercilessly smiting his foes.

    "It''s truly terrifying. With this power at my disposal, no one should think of crossing me." Yun Xiao chuckled to himself.

    Simply put, with this ace up his sleeve, Yun Xiao didn''t need to cower in the Thunder Department.

    And so, he felt his tension ebb away.

    Now, using the Thunder Immortal Formation as his eyes, Yun Xiao silently observed the harsh and violent world of thunder before him.

    People after people, after, smirk after arrogant smirk...

    All these wove together the tapestry of the Celestial Court.

    "Every face bears a mask of seriousness, but behind each, calctions and ttery lurk." Yun Xiao sneered as he watched.

    He found that viewing the myriad faces of the Thunder Department through the eye of the Thunder Immortal Formation greatly benefited the growth of his Worldly Dao Heart.

    "This is because, through the eyes of the Thunder Immortal Formation, everyone is real, no mask can cover their filth..."

    It was incredibly intriguing!

    Yun Xiao''s gaze wandered and finally settled back on the Hall of Soaring Thunder and the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion.

    "Jiang Taiping."

    He saw an old man with an ashen face standing in his courtyard.

    "Eh?" Yun Xiao noticed that the old man was fiddling with a stick the size of a toothpick in his hand.

    That stick imparted a sense of incredible weight and stability.

    "This is the Boundary Defining Divine Needle!"

    A longing surged within Yun Xiao, and the thunder above roared doubly fierce.

    "Why not just obliterate him with the formation, and then I can pop next door to take the needle?" Yun Xiao pondered. The temptation was strong, yet he decided against it.

    "Last time I killed Lord Lu, and it didn''t attract much attention. The folks of the Thunder Department are too shrewd. Killing Jiang Taiping this time, with all victims linked to Sky Soaring City and connected to me, and having shown my face in the formation, would surely cast suspicion my way."

    With that, even if Yun Xiao secured the Boundary Defining Divine Needle, his journey through the Celestial Court would likely be fraught with even greater difficulty.

    "There''s still time, let''s wait a bit longer."

    Yun Xiao restrained himself. Then, rather than watching Jiang Taiping, he observed theplex society of the Thunder Department a while longer.

    Soon, he felt his spirit growing weary. So he descended from the heavens, returning to his physical form. It was then that his eyes slowly opened.

    "Right." In the darkness, Yun Xiao summoned the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    The three-foot de shone in the darkness, its edge undeniable. A total of 9,999,999yers of Sword Aura swirled around it like a stormy sea of azure, the sword¡¯s power of death and solemnity reaching its zenith.

    "It seems like 10,000,000yers really is a bottleneck for a Sword Immortal''s Sword Aura," Yun Xiao muttered to himself. After hitting this cap a couple days ago, he finally decided to deal with this matter today.

    "It¡¯s said that once a Sword Aura reaches 10,000,000yers, it hits the carrying limit of the Sword Soul. To further strengthen the Sword Soul, there¡¯s only one way:press these 10,000,000yers. The people here call it 10,000,000yers forming a world, meaning topress the Sword Aura to its limit. And upon reaching that limit, a miniature Sword Aura World is born within the Sword Soul, giving it the power of a whole world."

    This was to make the sword a realm!

    It sounded like it had a simr meaning to the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which came from the Divine Continent''s Dao Source.

    "Of course, merepression isn¡¯t enough to form a Sword Aura World. The Sword Heart ys a significant role in this process. With the Sword Heart as the core, a Sword Aura World can stabilize."

    In short, the Sword Heart and Sword Aura became a Sword World!

    "This Sword Aura World,monly referred to as a Sword Prison, turns 10,000,000yers into a prison of Sword Aura, deeply integrating with the Sword Soul and vastly increasing its lethality."

    Yun Xiao was naturally anxious about creating a Sword Prison. On one hand, there had been no increase in the strength of his Sword Soul for a long time.

    On the other hand, although Yun Xiao had yet to encounter a Sword Immortal with a Sword Prison, he anticipated that such opponents would likely appear in the sixth round of the selection battle!

    "Of the 288 contenders, there are 103 Sword Immortals, and it''s said that 98 possess a Sword Prison."

    With those odds, encountering a Sword Cultivator almost certainly meant facing a Sword Prison!

    Yun Xiao truly wished to forge a Sword Prison tonight, to avoid future disadvantages in this aspect.

    But the problem was, the key to forming the Sword Prison wasn''t in himself alone; it required an external force for aid!

    This external force was known as the Sword Suppression Gate.

    Reportedly, it was a fusion of a celestial tool and formation, employing the immutability of the tool and the overwhelming power of the formation. Under its oppression, the Sword Soul and Sword Aura could potentially break through the critical point and condense into a world.

    "The Sword Suppression Gate is quite rare, even Sky Soaring Citycks one."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Meaning, the Sword Cultivators of Sky Soaring City had to borrow a Sword Suppression Gate from the Thunder Department.

    It was said that there were nine Sword Suppression Gates in the Thunder Department, each controlled by various top Immortal officials and powers.

    The Cao Immortal Manor didn''t possess one.

    However, Lightning Lord Bo Hong''s Grand Firmament Academy possessed one, of not insignificant quality, and since it was used by the young, it had a high sess rate.

    "Looking at it now, it seems there¡¯s no chance for me to use any of these nine gates?" Yun Xiao mused.

    "Initially, Old Cao might have been able to pull some strings for you, but you blew your social capitalst night," Blue Star chortled.

    "A misstep. I''ll be more cautious next time," Yun Xiao admitted.

    Blue Star and Red Moon both rolled their eyes. "Sure, we''ll believe it when we see it!"

    "Indeed, if I could do it over, I¡¯d still say what I said," Yun Xiao dered.

    Now, both reaching the Divine Self Realm and the Sword Prison were challenges!

    "This needs to be resolved tonight."

    As Yun Xiao pondered his options, Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing arrived at his door.

    Under the night sky, their graceful figures¡ªone charmingly cute, the other mature and austere¡ªcreated a strikingly beautiful scene.

    "Something the matter?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I have an invitation for you," Jiang Haiyan said softly.

    "Bring it here."

    With a gesture from Yun Xiao, a luxuriously golden-white invitation flew from Jiang Haiyan¡¯s hand to his.

    Yun Xiao opened it and read.

    "Grand Firmament Academy''s Azure Sky Banquet? Tonight? And I¡¯m invited?" Yun Xiao smirked after reading.

    "Maybe because you passed five rounds, you''re automatically on the invite list?" Jiang Heqing spected curiously.

    "The Azure Sky Banquet is indeed a gathering for young talents, hosted by the Grand Firmament Academy... I''ve heard that all 288 contenders are indeed invited," Jiang Haiyan exined.

    "If it''s not a special invitation, then it''s hardly exciting," Yun Xiao remarked, setting the invitation aside with little interest.

    However, in that moment of disregard, Yun Xiao noticed on the cover of the invitation a symbol of dual concentric circles, resembling a circr character.

    "This symbol?" Yun Xiao remembered; wasn''t this the mark of the Primordial Ruins crafted by the Three Immortals?

    "That represents the Sword Suppression Gate," Jiang Haiyan kindly rified, seeing his puzzled look. "The Grand Firmament Academy''s Sword Suppression Gate is quite famous, so they use it as their emblem. Tonight¡¯s Azure Sky Banquet will be held beneath it."

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao picked up the invitation again, his eyes intently studying the circr symbol, and mused softly, "You think, me being such a focal figure at this banquet, if I ask to use their Sword Suppression Gate, would they entertain my request?"

    Jiang Haiyan pursed her lips, replying, "Theoretically, as a young prodigy and the foster son of a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer, the Grand Firmament Academy should agree."

    "The problem isn¡¯t theory. The entire Grand Firmament Academy despises me now, and my foster father doesn''t seem too happy with me either." Yun Xiao chuckled, shaking his head.

    "Then don¡¯t go," Jiang Heqing suggested dismissively. "It¡¯s fine, no one will think you''re afraid. In fact, you actually turning up would create a stir instead."

    "Really?" Yun Xiao considered, his gaze shifting over the invitation. Finally, heughed. "What a pickle!"

    "So?" Jiang Haiyan watched him with a smile.

    "It makes me want to go even more!"

    What was there to fear? General Cao hadn¡¯t openly turned against him just yet. So, Yun Xiao nned to make use of his status to its fullest.

    "Let¡¯s go stir up some more trouble for Old Cao," Yun Xiao said gleefully.

    "Ah, such talent." Blue Star chuckled.

    And so, as dusk settled, Yun Xiao strolled out of the Hall of Soaring Thunder. He was apanied by a pair of beauties, each arm wrapped around a slender waist. Amid curious nces, the three headed toward the direction of the Grand Firmament Academy.

 Chapter 574: A Banquet of Peaches

    Chapter 574: A Banquet of Peaches

    Tonight marked the <em>half-point</em> of the Thunder Department''s selection process.

    It wasn''t a long pause!

    After five rounds of intensepetition, the climax of the selection had arrived!

    And so, it was the eve of a storm.

    Under such a night sky, the vast Thunder Immortal Formation that blotted out the heavens seemed even more fierce. Blinding and booming shes of lightning raced through the streets of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office of the Thunder Department.

    Such ferocity even made the mood of the people more irritable and stern!

    Surrounded by a lightning storm, Yun Xiao rode his Sovereign Sword,nding gracefully in front of the Grand Firmament Academy with two beauties in tow.

    He was d in shimmering tinum armor, his presence even more ethereal and valiant against the backdrop of the night.

    Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing, naturally delicate, matched the daughters of the Thunder Department''s Immortals in both beauty and demeanor."How majestic."

    Upon arrival, Yun Xiao looked ahead to see a towering and solemn edifice of the academy. His eyes caught sight of 99 giant thunder pirs, each entwined with lightning dragons, their serpentine bodies intertwined, forming the grand entrance of the Grand Firmament Academy.

    "The Grand Firmament Academy, formally known as the Grand Primordial Violet Firmament Origin Thunder Academy..."

    Yun Xiao noticed these words carved on one of the thunder pirs and thought to himself how much more imposing the full name sounded than the abbreviation.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In the Celestial Court, any notable entity or individual had a lengthy full name, such as the Supreme Evesting Nine Heavens Sovereign Thunder Immortal Formation or the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign.

    Even the Emperor of the Celestial Court supposedly had a title dozens of words long, which, if spoken aloud, would tie the tongue in knots.

    Length signified loftiness, grandeur, sanctity, and authority!

    As the Thunder Department''s premier institution for nurturing the youth, the Grand Firmament Academy was a true noble institution of the Celestial Court.

    Most high-ranking officials of the Thunder Department had studied at the Grand Firmament Academy!

    "Neither of us ever had the chance to study here," Jiang Haiyan said upon arrival, her eyes filled with longing and a hint of regret.

    Her father had finally been promoted to the core of the Thunder Department. But she was almost too old to attend this ce.

    Only Jiang Heqing was set to enter the Grand Firmament Academy after the selection, ready to build her futureworks within the Thunder Department''s bureaucratic circles.

    In in terms, the academy was a microcosm of the Thunder Department''s bureaucracy!

    "Let''s go."

    The Grand Firmament Academy was indeed grand, but Yun Xiao showed little interest.

    With a single nce, he strode directly towards the entrance of the Grand Firmament Academy.

    Tonight was undoubtedly the liveliest moment for the Grand Firmament Academy; as Yun Xiao arrived, the gates were bustling with Immortals, mostly youths.

    Some were attending the banquet, others were there to greet.

    No matter how gifted the geniuses were, when they met Yun Xiao, they immediately lost the spotlight.

    "Is that him?"

    In just an instant, Yun Xiao drew nearly all eyes to himself.

    Just like during the Nine Thunders Arena, the stares he received were peculiar, and within that peculiarity, there was a mix of mockery, irony, and amusement.

    He seemed like a gifted fool in their eyes.

    In truth, no one doubted Yun Xiao''s talent; what they found odd was his way with people.

    To put it bluntly, they thought him a fool.

    Of course, Yun Xiao bore the title of a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer''s foster son. Though they viewed him with disdain, nobody openly mocked him. They stifled theirughs, silently watching him move forward.

    It was as if they were watching a monkey. A stubborn monkey, low in brain capacity, grinning and baring its teeth at anyone it saw, yed by the societal rules of Immortal.

    At the entrance of the Grand Firmament Academy, a group of young Immortals had gathered.

    They seemed to be in charge of organizing the Azure Sky Banquet.

    Among them, a particrly striking young girl led the group.

    Her skin was exceedingly fair, so pure it seemed without a single impurity, glowing like jade.

    She wore a snow-white short dress adorned with a blue chiffon that was semi-transparent, embroidered with electric currents, clearly a protective garment of considerable strength.

    The girl hadrge eyes, and when she spoke, a pair of fangs and light dimples appeared, her smileforting.

    She was stunningly ethereal and natural, almost exactly as mortals might imagine a celestial maiden, possessing an elevated and ethereal demeanor.

    Byparison, Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing, though distinctive, seemed tock a celestial aura and werepletely overshadowed.

    Yun Xiao saw her too.

    "Hmm?" He paused for a moment, his heart fluttering.

    "Lian Xi?" But after a second look, he felt a twinge of disappointment. He was mistaken! The girl resembled Lian Xi, sharing a simr appearance.

    Both had an air of innocence and charm that naturally drew sympathy and favor.

    Sadly, this girl was not Lian Xi!

    "Lu Yao," she recognized Yun Xiao at a nce, smiling as she waved him over. "Come this way."

    She seemed warmly enthusiastic.

    "Her name is Bai Ling''er, and her father is also a general of the Thunder Department," Jiang Haiyan whispered.

    This meant Yun Xiao was an adopted son of a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer, while Bai Ling''er was the biological daughter of one.

    In terms of status, the biological daughter held a higher rank.

    "They say she''s very powerful. She reached the Divine Self Realm at 17 years old, and now her prowess is nearly that of a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer. She''s even considered a prime candidate for the Divine Gateway," Jiang Heqing said with evident envy.

    Compared to this fair-skinned girl, the two sisters felt rather in.

    "Bai Ling''er?"

    Truth be told, as her name suggested, she was indeed vibrant and charming.

    Since she was the only one who smiled at Yun Xiao, he approached politely and handed her the invitation, saying, "I am here at the invitation of the Grand Firmament Academy."

    His words caused some of the young Immortals by Bai Ling''er''s side to look uneasy.

    Bai Ling''er smiled as she took the invitation, telling Yun Xiao, "Please,e in."

    Yun Xiao nodded, turned back to take each beauty by the hand, and boldly stepped into the Grand Firmament Academy!

    He had humiliated Lightning Lord Bo Hong and dared to y Mo Ruoyu; now he walked into the assembly as if it were nothing, a clear challenge to the prodigious talents of the academy!

    At least to the young talents beside Bai Ling''er, it was a provocation.

    "Sister!"

    Beside Bai Ling''er, a young man stood¡ªhandsome andmanding, resembling Bai Ling''er closely, with an exceptional presence.

    He turned back to watch Yun Xiao''s departing figure, frowning slightly, "Just like that, he''s let in?"

    "What else?" Bai Ling''er responded.

    "At the very least, the invitation says only onepanion may apany him, yet he brought two. He''s tantly disregarding the rules, showing no respect for the Grand Firmament Academy," Bai Zijun said coldly.

    Bai Ling''er pursed her lips, shaking her head. "You don''t understand; he''s a special case. Even if he wanted to bring his entire family, we couldn''t stop him."

    Bai Zijun was initially startled, then quickly came around,ughing, "You''re right as always."

    Those around, though somewhat irked, understood the reasoning.

    This Azure Sky Banquet was a veritable gauntlet for Yun Xiao. Since he dared to present himself, why block him?

    Letting him in was the start of the spectacle.

    "Merely isting himpletely will give him enough trouble," Bai Zijun remarked.

    As soon as Yun Xiao entered, he found a seat and began with a pot of wine.

    "Refreshing!" Yun Xiao drank down the pot of exquisite, unnamed celestial wine in one go, and let out a long sigh of relief.

    After finishing his drink, he finally took the time to take in the Azure Sky Banquet and the Town of Sword Gate.

    "Is this the legendary Banquet of Peaches?" Yun Xiao looked around to see a scene enveloped in celestial mist, with countless fine wines and dishes, celestial maidens dancing, and musicians ying... a grand spectacle of a heavenly pce!

    The luxury here was many times that of the birthday celebration for Huyan Luo at the Primordial Ruins!

    As soon as Yun Xiao entered, he was dazzled by the array. The jade table in front of him wasden with various celestial fruits and fine wines, high in spirit and essence.

    The fruits were primarily peaches, including the kind that Lu Changfeng had gifted to that old guard Yan Song. There, such peaches were treasured. But here, they were just another fruit.

    This Banquet of Peaches was indeed modeled after the famous Celestial Court''s Empress Dowager''s Peach Banquet.

    It must be said, the high society of the Azure Sky Banquet truly opened Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    "Worthy of being a gathering of top celestial second-generations." Observing the scene, Yun Xiao was reminded of a saying. "Behind the gates of the rich, food and drink are plentiful while bones of the frozen dead litter the streets."

    The chilling part was, the rich behind those gates were the cause of the dead littering the streets...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 575: Pay Up, or Get Lost!

    Chapter 575: Pay Up, or Get Lost!

    In a world where the bounties of immortality were hoarded by a privileged few, the heirs of heaven needed nothing but a fortunate birth to partake in wonders themon soul could scarcely dream of.

    "With great poweres great responsibility!"

    Yet, what Yun Xiao witnessed in the Celestial Court was a thirst for power so fierce it drained others dry.

    Despite his inner disquiet, his hands never paused; jug after jug of celestial wine flowed freely.

    Red Moon in his embrace gleamed with greed, tiny beastly ws reaching out to snatch any delicacy within grasp, gobbling them up without reserve.

    "A bit much, don¡¯t you think?" Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing whispered. The two sisters seated beside him nced around. "Maybe tone it down? You''ll draw mockery."

    "Do you think I care?" Yun Xiao retorted.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Just eat, just drink," Jiang Haiyan said, biting her lip.

    This Azure Sky Banquet, ostensibly a refined social gathering, was but a veneer for the scions of high ranking officials to sip wine, unt their elegance, and forge alliances.Here, they clustered in small groups, lively with chatter. Who had time for Yun Xiao? Those from the Thunder Department who befriended him had either ulterior motives or were fools.

    So, Yun Xiao ignored everyone. He attended a banquet of his own making, embracing a simple creed¡ªinvite me, and I shall take.

    Fine wine and exquisite feasts? Taken.

    Peaches of immortality? Eaten.

    His approach was forthright, unapologetic. Conventional judgments no longer mattered to him. Those celestial prodigies, busy safeguarding theirworks, would nce his way, shaking their heads, sighing, and even scoffing.

    Sometimes they whispered, sometimes theirughter broke through.

    Among the hundreds of prodigies, few ignored Yun Xiao. Yet, he paid them no heed.

    His gaze was fixed beyond the banquet, on the mountain behind. There stood a circr portal marked with a round symbol, the Sword Suppression Gate.

    Like a majestic, imperious, and mysterious eye of thunder, it surveyed the gathering of celestial beings, indifferent to their shallow pretenses.

    "That''s the Sword Suppression Gate."

    It was precisely why Yun Xiao hade here today. He observed the gate for a long time, his gaze shifting between it and the young prodigies at the banquet. To them, Yun Xiao was but a fleeting bubble, unlikely ever to touch the revered gate.

    Just as his thoughts were adrift, Red Moon in his arms suddenly eximed, "Look, Yun Xiao, isn¡¯t that your aunt over there?" His excitement was surely not without reason...

    Following its gaze, Yun Xiao saw a violet figure drifting across the sky above the banquet, heading straight for the Sword Suppression Gate.

    "Cao Shuo?" he recognized her instantly.

    It was indeed Thunder Emissary Cao.

    "What¡¯s she doing at the Grand Firmament Academy?" Yun Xiao casually asked Jiang Haiyan beside him.

    A thought struck Jiang Haiyan, stirring excitement, "Thunder Emissary Cao also serves as the deputy head of the academy. She might be on duty at the Sword Suppression Hall!"

    "Do you mean to say that if it''s her turn, she decides matters at the Sword Suppression Gate?" Yun Xiao''s eyes sparkled with anticipation.

    "Exactly," Jiang Haiyan nodded.

    "Stay here. I''ll be back soon," Yun Xiao told them. Amid the peripheral nces of many, he discreetly left the banquet and made his way towards the Sword Suppression Gate.

    Not far off, Bai Zijun wasughing and talking with a group of heirs.

    After noticing the departing figure, Bai Zijun excused himself from his friends and pulled his sister Bai Ling''er aside. "Sis, that kid left the banquet for the Sword Suppression Gate. He isn''t a disciple of the academy; he shouldn''t be wandering off."

    "I know, it''s fine," Bai Ling''er''s eyes followed the direction of Yun Xiao¡¯s departure. "I¡¯ll go find him."

    "Wait, sis," Bai Zijun grabbed her arm. "A few friends of mine just wanted to tease Lu Yao through those two girls from the frontier cities. Now that he¡¯s gone, can¡¯t we scare these two girls a bit?"

    "Is that really interesting?" Bai Ling''er shook her head. "I can see it now, neither istion nor mockery works on him."

    "So we just watch him swagger into the Azure Sky Banquet, drink, eat, and leave without trouble?" Bai Zijun frowned in annoyance.

    "Don''t worry about it. Many eyes are on him. The Thunder Department is a ce ofw and order; we can¡¯t just kill him here." Bai Ling''er looked in another direction. "Maybe Brother Feng will make him leave something behind?"

    "In any case, we can''t let him befortable! If this fool isfortable, none of us at the Grand Firmament Academy are," Bai Zijun added with a sneer.

    "Wait, that''s not right either. After that little stint of his after beating Mo Ruoyu, he should really be thankful for the celestialws and decrees right now. Not just us, everyone in the Thunder Department wants to quash him like an annoying fly, isn''t that right?"

    Bai Ling''er said nothing more and slipped away quietly.

    Meanwhile, the opulent banquet continued unabated.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Beneath the Sword Suppression Gate stood a dark pce, known as the Sword Suppression Hall. This hall, akin to a sword sheath, was all ck and sealed, with an air of solemnity around it, marked only by a single dark door. Approaching this hall was undoubtedly the closest one could get to the Sword Suppression Gate itself.

    Yun Xiao looked up, feeling the grandeur of the thunderous eye above intensify, a crushing psychological weight as if it linked directly to the Thunder Immortal Formation in the heavens. "Now that I''m here, I have to form a Sword Prison no matter what."

    He felt the urgent expectation of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul radiating towards him. So, he stepped into the hall.

    Upon entering, he announced loudly, "Lu Yao requests an audience."

    His voice had barely faded when a surprised sound came from the shadows.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see a woman stepping forward from the darkness.

    She was d in a lustrous violet dress with a plunging neckline and a high slit, her curly hair bouncing with each step.

    She exuded a seductive fragrance that sparked the imagination, her red lips and enticing eyes drawing one in, her presence as deep and mysterious as a hidden valley.

    "Aren''t you fearless, daring to venture into Grand Firmament Academy''sir?" Cao Shuo chuckled, her beautiful eyes fixed on the young man before her.

    "Thunder Emissary Cao, I wish to use the Sword Suppression Gate," Yun Xiao said earnestly, getting straight to the point.

    Cao Shuo seemed ustomed to his audacity. "What did you just call me?" she asked with a yful smile, sidestepping his request.

    Yun Xiao pursed his lips and repeated, "Aunt, I wish to use the Sword Suppression Gate."

    "Ah, that sounds better," Cao Shuo remarked as she stepped closer to Yun Xiao, almost matching his height.

    "Today I''m on duty here. Though you are not a disciple of the Grand Firmament Academy, you are my nephew, and I might just make an exception for you," she said, her voice soft and her lips parting in a faint smile.

    "Thank you," Yun Xiao nodded.

    This was turning out to be much easier than he had anticipated.

    No sooner had Yun Xiao thought to himself than Cao Shuo held out her palm and said, "Bring it here."

    "What?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The fee to open the Sword Suppression Gate," Cao Shuo paused, "30,000 True Immortal Jades. That''s the rule at the Grand Firmament Academy. Everyone pays. I don''t have the authority to waive it for you."

    "Thirty thousand?" Yun Xiao''s face darkened. Was this a robbery?

    "If you don''t believe me, go ask around," Cao Shuo red at him. "I don''t believe that my sister-inw didn''t give you an allowance. Fork it over."

    "It''s all gone. I don''t have a single True Immortal Jade left," Yun Xiao said.

    "Then get lost. Don''t think I''ll cover for you," Cao Shuo waved dismissively.

    Yun Xiao grew frustrated. Why did everything require money? Being poor truly curtailed one''s ambitions. He was seriously considering going out to y a few foes to gather funds.

    "So, you really want to use the Sword Suppression Gate, huh?" Cao Shuo saw his irritation and suddenly smiled slyly.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao replied.

    "I''ll cover it for you!" Cao Shuo suddenly dered generously.

    "What''s the condition?" Yun Xiao asked, his voice low, not feeling particrly thrilled.

    Cao Shuo blinked seductively, her voice sultry, "Bow to me, and then, in flesh, repay."

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless.

    "Do you have the guts? Right here, pin me down, I''ll pay afterwards, you go to the Sword Suppression Gate, I''ll be satisfied in body and spirit, you advance by leaps and bounds¡ªeveryone''s happy!"

    Cao Shuo grabbed his cor, her tongue teasing her lips, looking irresistibly tempting.

    Just then, outside the Sword Suppression Gate, a young girl in a white dress approached the Sword Suppression Hall, her expression curious...

 Chapter 576: Rolling Tides! A Scandalous Affair!

    Chapter 576: Rolling Tides! A Scandalous Affair!

    Yun Xiao looked again at the enchanting woman before him, rendered speechless.

    How could she be so bold and straightforward?

    Was it because of his body, that of the Creator Immortal, inherently alluring and awakening a primal desire within her?

    At that moment, Cao Shuo bit her lip softly, her eyes sultry slits of allure, her soft hands resting on Yun Xiao¡¯s shoulders, her gaze screaming just two words!

    ¡°No way.¡± Yun Xiao steadied his heart, resisting the charm of the devil, and said, ¡°Without genuine feelings, all this means nothing.¡±

    Hearing this, the hopeful expression on Cao Shuo''s face froze, and the seductive look in her eyes quickly morphed into violent violet lightning, while the two small snakes perched on her ears stared at Yun Xiao and cursed.

    ¡°You foolish brat, so ungrateful!¡±

    ¡°Kill him!¡±

    Their ferocious demeanor revealed that they, along with Cao Shuo, were not of one body but rather sentient demons.Being able to openly keep such demons in the Celestial Court was a feat in itself.

    At this moment, Cao Shuo, gazing at the attractive yet stubborn young man before her, was frustrated and speechless.

    ¡°I¡¯m in no hurry, you go and gather some money. Whenever you¡¯re ready,e here.¡± As Cao Shuo said this, she pinched Yun Xiao¡¯s cheek, chuckling, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m seldom here.¡±

    This meant that Yun Xiao¡¯s n to settle the matter of forming a Sword Prison tonight was ruined.

    ¡°What are you hesitating for? You get to enjoy yourself and finally form a Sword Prison! That''s killing two birds with one stone,¡± Blue Star muttered under his breath.

    ¡°Auntie is too fierce; he¡¯s chickened out,¡± Red Moon sighed.

    But this was a matter of dignity...

    An encounter with genuine feelings was eptable, but not force nor making it a transaction.

    After all, in matters of men and women, Yun Xiao was traditional and assertive.

    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, I should be going.¡± Yun Xiao looked at her hands sped around his neck.

    Cao Shuo gazed back at him forlornly and sighed, ¡°Is it so hard to make you bow?¡±

    ¡°As hard as reaching the blue skies,¡± Yun Xiao confidently replied.

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe it!¡±

    Suddenly, Cao Shuo smirked slyly.

    Before Yun Xiao could react, her arms tightened around his neck, forcefully pulling his head down into her embrace.

    ¡°Damn!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s world went white, then ck, his facepletely smothered.

    ¡°What the heck is this?¡± He felt like he was forcibly dunked into a basin, struggling for breath.

    Cao Shuo''s power as a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer was immense, and her hands, like two giant serpents, coiled around Yun Xiao, rendering the young man utterly helpless, his face a portrait of tender emotion. He was immobilized, as if drowning, and not just anywhere, but in the vast, unforgiving sea.

    With a light huff, she held Yun Xiao and fell backward in a smooth motion.

    <em>THUD! </em>The impact reverberated across his face.

    To onlookers, their figures entwined suggested a fire ready to ze.

    Yun Xiao''s mind was still a blur, but Cao Shuo abruptly stopped, pushed him away, and whispered, ¡°Someone¡¯sing!¡±

    ¡°Someone?¡±

    Yun Xiao got up and looked behind him.

    There, a celestial maiden in a flowing white robe stood at the entrance of the Sword Suppression Hall, her eyes wide with astonishment, frozen as she beheld the scene.

    She nced at the red mark on Yun Xiao''s face, then at Cao Shuo''s disheveled clothes...

    ¡°I''m sorry!¡±

    With that, she stepped back, exited the hall, and walked away.

    As she descended the mountain, Bai Ling''er''s expression shifted from confusion to cold disdain.

    ¡°Disgusting.¡±

    As she spoke, she extended her hand, revealing a Projection Orb in her palm.

    ¡°You dare do such things, you should be prepared to be shunned by everyone, Thunder Emissary Cao. I''m not afraid of you.¡±

    After saying this, she recalled Yun Xiao''s handsome features and shook her head with a sigh. ¡°A god-like face, yet arrogant and foolish, disliked by all. Now, adding a scandal to his name, he will only be infamous in the Celestial Court, avoided by everyone... Such a waste of a good appearance!¡±

    In her eyes, Yun Xiao had be a figure consumed by greed, wrath, foolishness, and lust.

    Back at the base of the mountain during the Azure Sky Banquet, Bai Ling''er pulled her brother aside to show him the Projection Orb.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Sis!!¡± Seeing the image within the sphere, where a man and a woman were <em>irresistibly</em> tumbling to the ground of the Sword Hall, Bai Zijun felt both envy and disdain, his eyes reddening as he clenched his teeth. ¡°You mean to publicize this?¡±

    ¡°The Azure Sky Banquet is the perfect asion to watch others'' follies, isn¡¯t it?¡± Bai Ling''er said indifferently.

    Upon viewing the scene again, her disgust deepened, her heart filled with contempt.

    So dirty!

    ¡°The problem is, if Thunder Emissary Cao knows it was you who leaked this, won¡¯t she seek revenge?¡± Bai Zijun asked nervously.

    ¡°Who¡¯s to me if one cannot behave decently? Am I supposed to fear one such as her, a disgrace to the path of immortality?¡± Bai Ling''er''s disdain was palpable for such women.

    "The people from the Cao Immortal Manor are the sworn enemies of our father and his friends,¡± Bai Zijun thought, his eyes burning with resolve. ¡°Cao Sheng has already tarnished his reputation because of Lu Yao. Now¡¯s the chance to kick them while they¡¯re down, make these siblings theughingstock of the Thunder Department over a single man!¡±

    ¡°But first, send a flying talisman to consult our father,¡± Bai Ling''er suggested, her gaze falling on a chilly youth in blue armor amidst the crowd. ¡°I''ll go and speak with Brother Feng.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡±

    The siblings sprang into action.

    Soon, Bai Zijun received a flying talisman from their father, Thunder Duke Bai Duo.

    ¡°Sister, father says to release it publicly at the Azure Sky Banquet. Who knows, we might even catch them in the act!¡± Bai Zijun said, thrilled.

    ¡°Hmm, Brother Feng also said we should make tens of thousands of copies of this Projection Orb, let every Heavenly Officer in the Thunder Department see what shamelessness looks like,¡± Bai Ling''er added, her face cold as ice. Even as an outsider, she felt embarrassed discussing it.

    And so, the highlight of the Azure Sky Banquet arrived!

    A Projection Orb appeared in the midst of the crowd, capturing the attention of all the young geniuses.

    The crowd was puzzled, but then, within the light and shadow, Yun Xiao was buried deep in a ravine, and Thunder Emissary Cao was abandoning all restraints. They tumbled to the ground, and it looked as if they were about to...

    The Projection Orb abruptly stopped, leaving much to the imagination!

    In that moment, a deathly silence fell over the Azure Sky Banquet.

    ¡°It¡¯s Lu Yao and Thunder Emissary Cao¡­¡±

    ¡°Such indecency between an aunt and her nephew, disrupting the natural order!¡±

    ¡°How utterly revolting!¡±

    For the Celestial Court, a ce of strict decorum, this was a ridiculous scandal.

    All present were children of high officials of the Thunder Department, raised on virtues of purity, each one seemingly a paragon.

    With their upbringing, this scene prompted them to feel physically ill.

    ¡°Truly a scandal for the Thunder Department.¡±

    ¡°This is a major disgrace!¡±

    ¡°Celestial beings acting like beasts in heat, what a spectacle.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s been said that Thunder Emissary Caocks discretion, rumored to have countless male proteges and lovers. Today, it seems those rumors are true.¡±

    The murmurs started softly but soon grew into loud expressions of disdain.

    ¡°Where is this happening?¡±

    Heads turned in unison, all eyes on the Sword Suppression Gate.

    "They might still be engaged in that scandalous aunt-nephew affair!"

    "Let''s go catch them in the act!"

    "Bring several Projection Orbs, record everything for repeated observation."

    "What a joke, can Lu Yao, that pretty boy, withstand Cao Shuo''s ferocious onught?"

    In an instant, hundreds of genius Arbiters set down their wine sses, artwork, and fine dishes, heading toward the Sword Gate.

    Meanwhile, the passionate indiscretions of Thunder Emissary Cao and her new nephew became the central scandal at the Azure Sky Banquet, reverberating through the Thunder Department like thunderous ripples.

    In the Sword Suppression Hall, Yun Xiao calmly regarded the breathtaking beauty before him.

    "You knew someone wasing, yet you provoked this situation. Are you using me as a shield?" Yun Xiao said, his tone unfriendly.

    "You''re overthinking it. I just wanted you, my dear nephew, to appreciate what your aunt has to offer," Cao Shuo replied with a coquettishugh.

    "I have no power, no status, no strength, yet you use me, leading to only one oue¡ªmy destruction," Yun Xiao''s voice grew colder.

    Hearing this, Cao Shuo pursed her lips, "Enough of yourints. I''ve covered the 30,000 True Immortal Jades for you, now head to the Sword Suppression Gate!"

    "I really don''t understand. With your status, who would you need to shield yourself from?" Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "It''s all your wild imagination," Cao Shuo retorted.

    "I understand now," Yun Xiao looked deeply at Cao Shuo, "You don''t care about my life or death. You just think I''m useful. If I can''t stop the arrow you fear, my destruction wouldn''t be your loss."

    Impatient, Cao Shuo pointed towards the door. "Take your benefits and get out."

    Yun Xiao could hear somemotion outside. He knew Bai Ling''er would undoubtedly spread the word.

    This would only worsen Yun Xiao''s already shaky reputation.

    "Cao Shuo, you will regret this," Yun Xiao said, giving her a long, prating look before turning to leave.

    "Whatever." Cao Shuo rolled her eyes, clearly not taking him seriously.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 577: The Mole Pops Out!

    Chapter 577: The Mole Pops Out!

    As Yun Xiao stepped out of the Sword Suppression Hall, he was immediately met with hundreds of res filled with disgust, contempt, and odd curiosity.

    "He''s done already?" someone muttered.

    "Nonsense, do you think any man in the Thunder Department couldst more than a minute with Thunder Emissary Cao? She''s the subus of the Thunder Department!"

    "Guess he got sucked dry real quick!"

    The prodigies of the Grand Firmament Academy were somewhat displeased by theck of drama. Their irritation was sharply directed at Yun Xiao.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    To the girls, Yun Xiao was nothing short of revolting.

    Like Bai Ling''er, they couldn''t fathom how such a fine exterior could cloak such a contemptible spirit.

    And the boys? Their looks were a mix of disdain tinged with envy.

    After all, to be favored by a woman of such devilish allure was not something easily dismissed."Wouldn''t anyone relish a taste of that charm?" someone said, their envy quickly turning to bitter jealousy.

    "The biggest difference between humans and beasts," Bai Zijun proimed, shaking his head as he looked down upon Yun Xiao with a gaze reserved for swine, "is that humans possess humanity and do not consort with their kin, while beasts mingle indiscriminately."

    "A person''s birth determines their essence and scope. You cannot expect a mole to understand the manners of men."

    They stood in the distance, hundreds gathered, their collective gaze cold and disdainful toward Yun Xiao.

    First Yun Xiao caused a stir with his deration. Now, he had entered an indecent rtionship with his aunt. Without exception, all these young prodigies were disgusted.

    The first act challenged their spiritual cultivation; thetter, their cultivated interests.

    Yun Xiao hadmitted the first deed himself. But the second deed was all Cao Shuo''s doing.

    Together, these two scandals meant Yun Xiao could no longer blend into high society. Not that he intended to.

    Amidst the hundreds of cold stares, Yun Xiao recalled only one thing¡ªthe Sword Suppression Gate! With a single sweeping nce at the group of geniuses, he soared away, heading straight for the gate.

    "Lu Yao, you''re not a disciple of the Grand Firmament Academy. What are you trying to do?" Bai Ling''er demanded coldly.

    "Oh? Look who''s back after running away. And speaking to me so aggressively too. Are you trying to get my attention?" Yun Xiao retorted as he flew.

    "..." Bai Ling''er was taken aback.

    Yun Xiao''s demeanor towards her provoked a chorus of curses.

    "You know well you''re despised, yet you act even more brazenly?" Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    Yun Xiao cracked a wry smile, saying, ¡°Humans are social creatures, and life, well, it¡¯s gued with rumors and whispers. Since there¡¯s no escaping it, why not stride alone with ease? I¡¯ll just enjoy myself; why bother about how the dust on my journey to immortality sees me?¡±

    Even if people belittled him, talked about him, and hated him, Yun Xiao truly didn¡¯t care. From the beginning, he knew none here could ever be his friends.

    By now, Yun Xiao had already reached the gates of the Sword Cultivator¡¯s stronghold!

    ¡°Sister, it¡¯s Thunder Emissary Cao''s turn to be on duty today, and the 30,000 True Immortal Jades have been paid. We can¡¯t stop him,¡± Bai Zijun said helplessly.

    Bai Ling''er''s face darkened. ¡°To let such a man tarnish the Sword Suppression Gate... Thunder Emissary Cao is utterly despicable.¡±

    ¡°It''s fine. A mole striving for a halo only shames itself further,¡± Bai Zijun remarked coldly.

    His words found many nods of agreement.

    ¡°The original form of the Sword Suppression Gate is a double loop; if his Sword Soul isn¡¯t of the Vast Heaven grade, he can¡¯t condense a Sword Prison.¡±

    The Vast Heaven grade was ranked second among the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades.

    As news of Yun Xiao and Thunder Emissary Cao''s illicit rtionship spread, other students and elders of the Grand Firmament Academy were stirred, converging towards the Sword Suppression Gate.

    In a blink, thousands of eyes coldly watched the young man in tinum armor.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao achieved true detachment. Hepletely ignored the skepticism and nder, his eyes fixed only on the celestial path that stretched before him like a vibrant rainbow.

    The Sword Suppression Gate was indeed a gateway on the Immortal path!

    Crossing it meant stepping into a new stage!

    Before him, the round symbol was indeed two loops!

    Bursting electrical serpents swirled around these loops, forming dual circuits of thunder, shing the sky, and unleashing deafening roars!

    ¡°It is said, the higher the quality of the Sword Soul, the more the Sword Suppression Gate needs to be stimted to its limit, generating more loops to suppress the Sword Aura and form a Sword Prison!¡±

    Above the Yang grade, the Sword Souls of True Immortals were undoubtedly stronger and categorized by the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades!

    ¡°The Sword Soul needs to reach the second rank, Vast Heaven grade, to utilize this double loop of the Sword Suppression Gate to forge a Sword Prison. That¡¯s the threshold. Among the geniuses under 30 years old in the Thunder Department, not many have a Vast Heaven grade Sword Soul. Usually, the children of Rank 4 Heavenly Officers can reach it steadily.¡±

    ¡°If the Sword Soul surpasses the Vast Heaven grade, then this gate needs to trigger a third electrical loop. Under 30 years old, those who can provoke three loops are the absolute prodigies of the Thunder Department. Their parents are usually Rank 3 Heavenly Officers, like Bai Ling''er¡¯s.¡±

    Of course, during this selection in the Thunder Department, there were also some peak talents of the Celestial Court who managed to trigger four loops while condensing their Sword Prison.

    Their parents were generally Rank 2 Heavenly Officers, at the level of the Supreme General.

    And within the entire Celestial Court, those who could trigger five loops were countable on one hand, their parents certainly titans of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    And so, the number of loops the Sword Suppression Gate triggered was also a testament to a Sword Cultivator''s talent.

    Each Arbiters'' first time condensing a Sword Prison was akin to a test of innate ability, quite a spectacle indeed.

    Undoubtedly,<em></em>this was <em>Lu Yao''s</em> first time testing his Sword Soul.

    It also happened to be the same moment his reputation plummeted to rock bottom in the Thunder Department.

    "Begin!"

    At that moment, over 10,000 gazes seared into Yun Xiao''s back. A sea of mockery engulfed himpletely! A single act of defiance had shattered the egos of the entire Thunder Department.

    Now, Yun Xiao''s eyes zed like torches, and the three-foot azure Sword Soul in his hand emitted a spectral light.

    Before him, at the very heart of the Sword Suppression Gate, a rift appeared amidst the dense thunder and lightning¡ªthe very spot for entering the sword!

    Without another word, Yun Xiao thrust the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into the Sword Suppression Gate!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Instantly, countless thunderous serpents entwined around the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, enveloping it several times over, while the gate¡¯s dual rings began to spin, activating the celestial formations atop them and unleashing a deafening roar.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Sword Suppression Gate began to contract as if to embed the Heaven Burial Sword Soul within it entirely.

    This was the process of the gate bing acquainted with the Sword Soul.

    All eyes were inevitably drawn to the circr gate!

    Soon, Bai Zijun shook his head with a chuckle. "The outer ring of the gate dims, showing that the double loop is unnecessary¡ªhis Sword Soul doesn¡¯t reach the Vast Heaven grade, and can¡¯t form a Sword Prison!"

    This judgment, voiced by many, quickly spread.

    They allughed.

    Theirughter was mocking, savoring.

    The only thing they had feared was Yun Xiao¡¯s talent, for indeed he had once stirred the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    But for a Sword Cultivator, if the grade of his Sword Soul was so poor, his potential was surely capped!

    "He really is a man without any surprises..." Bai Ling''er sighed in resignation. Before today, she had held some hope for this divinely handsome youth. But now, everything about him only disgusted her!

    As time passed, the outer ring of the Sword Suppression Gate grew dimmer, and theughter of the crowd became unrestrained, wild.

    Inside the Sword Suppression Hall, Cao Shuo''s expression also turned grave. "Even now, why is he acting so calm?"

    But just then, the outer ring of the double loop suddenly trembled as if startled, the thunder atop it surged, entering a state of full charge.

    "Huh?" The crowd froze, their faces still twisted in smirks.

    <em>POP! </em>The third ring of the Sword Suppression Gate, without any warning, suddenly appeared in the outermost circle.

    As soon as it appeared, it shone brilliantly, and electric serpents surged.

    "Ah?" Including Bai Ling''er and Bai Zijun, everyone was a bit annoyed.

    This meant Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul was on par with theirs. He was now considered a top-tier prodigy, worthy of being acknowledged as a foster son of a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer.

    "He''s somewhat capable," Bai Zijun remarked, just as the Sword Suppression Gate popped again, and more electric serpents exploded in the sky.

    The fourth ring coalesced¡ªfully charged!

    "What?" Bai Ling''er''s face soured at this development.

    Everyone exchanged looks, their expressions filled with displeasure.

    "This boy''s Sword Soul is at the Vast Heaven grade!" A middle-aged man with white hair appeared, his tone cold and his gaze deep.

    "Dad." Bai Ling''er and Bai Zijun hurried over. The two had been outssed in talent!

    "It''s alright. In a few years, you two can also reach the Vast Heaven grade," the white-haired man said calmly.

    Despite this, the oue with the four rings turned the earlier mockery into a stinging rebuke.

    All the onlookers were visibly displeased!

    "Even at the Vast Heaven grade, it won¡¯t change his fate of being used as a pawn," the middle-aged man remarked meaningfully as he saw his children fall silent.

    "Indeed!" Bai Zijun''s expression eased somewhat.

    Just as his words fell, the sky popped thrice more.

    People''s necks trembled, and their eyes, like in an earthquake, shakily turned upwards.

    Above them, the Sword Suppression Gate had reached an unprecedented limit, stretching open seven rings, gathering the surrounding thunderous power for a fierce battle with Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul...

    For a moment, everyone''s tongues seemed nailed to the bottoms of their jaws.

 Chapter 578: Fortune Breeds Envy

    Chapter 578: Fortune Breeds Envy

    "Sword Suppression Gate, seven rings!"

    After more than 30 breaths of deathly silence, such a tearing shout finally erupted at the base of the Sword Suppression Gate, one after another.

    Tens of thousands of immortals, young and old, trembled as they watched the seven massive rings of thunder standing tall in the sky, their hearts feeling as though they were being stretched to their limits!

    They could scarcely believe what they were seeing!

    In the center of the Sword Suppression Gate, a young man in white was now engulfed by the rampant thunder serpents, leaving only a streak of blue sword light shing within the gate.

    "Seven rings, that''s on the level of a Celestial Emperor..."

    Many spoke in hoarse voices, rendered almost speechless. As the thought crossed their minds, most shook their heads instinctively, unable to ept it. Such talent should not emerge in a moment like this!

    And this sensational youth, just 15 minutes earlier, had been the butt of scornful jokes!

    Were young prodigies like them supposed to kneel and fawn over someone they considered no better than a mole just moments ago?The twisted expression on Bai Zijun''s face showed how ufortable his ilk felt at this moment.

    "Father!" Bai Zijun turned to the middle-aged man with white hair beside him, his teeth clenched. "Is this even possible? The son of the Nine Thunders Sovereign could only summon five rings!"

    The Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign was one of the Eight Sovereigns of the Celestial Court, a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer!

    Bai Duo frowned deeply, shaking his head. "True or not, people will talk. This boy has managed to extend his own life."

    "Father, that''s not certain," Bai Ling''er said, her expression cool. "In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, without a strong background, relying on talent alone invites endless variables. Many geniuses in history have fallen, typically those of this sort."

    "Indeed, there are many who envy." As Bai Zijun spoke, he didn''t realize that his eyes were a deep, blood red. Almost purplish red.

    Their words were cold, but the impact of the seven rings was the most difficult thing for them to ept in their lives; the more jealous Bai Zijun felt, the more it showed how upset he was, how hot his face burned.

    He looked behind him. Those who had attended the Azure Sky Banquet with him, all young scions of various prestigious immortal families, silently watched the azure sword light, their faces twitching, most of them grim.

    Just as Yun Xiao had anticipated, disying one''s talent in the Celestial Court hardly brought admiration; instead, it stirred murderous intent!

    In human nature, the most fundamental evil sprang from jealousy.

    Among these tens of thousands, truly admiring souls were few; the vast majority, watching the night sky lit by the glowing rings of electric snakes, had their glowing eyes filled with the darkest of human thoughts.

    Of course, had Yun Xiao been the progeny of some grand figure, he might well have had 10,000 people kneeling before him by now.

    "At the level of a Celestial Emperor¡­"

    People repeated the phrase, shaking their heads as dark thoughts took root.

    "Does this boy possess some special fate?"

    "Can he be killed and his power seized?"

    "Can his Sword Bone be extracted?"

    "How many are now setting their sights on him?"

    The onlookers surveyed their surroundings quietly.

    The greed that sprouted in the hearts of these tens of thousands had gathered into a dark cloud over the Grand Firmament Academy.

    At this moment, everyone was Jiang Taiping.

    Yet not everyone acted with the caution of Jiang Taiping.

    "This boy might think he''s about to shake the Celestial Court, to ascend in a single leap. But he doesn¡¯t realize the greater cmity waiting for him," Bai Duo said, squinting meaningfully.

    "Indeed." Lightning Lord Bo Hong had just arrived. He looked at Bai Duo and said with a chilling smile. "The Great Dao Celestial Realm won''t tolerate the rise of a second Chaos Sovereign."

    "Cao Sheng has really stepped into a minefield this time. The more he tries to store up, the bigger the st when it''s unleashed. It¡¯ll blow off at least two of his legs." Bai Duoughed.

    "Don¡¯t just talk about Cao Sheng. With the emergence of the seven rings, even the Supreme General can''t handle it," Bo Hong sneered.

    "The Supreme General is steady enough; he''s got no ties to this kid, ready to kick him away at any moment," Bai Duo paused and scoffed. "Perhaps the one most envious of this kid''s talent is the Supreme General himself."

    "What do you mean?" Bo Hong, the Lightning Lord, was taken aback.

    "He''s old, isn¡¯t he? Doesn''t he want to turn back the years, to return to his youth?" Bai Duo said.

    "That exins it. I wondered why an old eagle would be interested in a mere mole¡ªit¡¯s his longing for youth," Bo Hong scoffed.

    "With such a shell, such talent, he''s surely the best candidate for revival. Even Cao Shuo is desperate to devour this beautiful young man; how could the Supreme General not be tempted?" Bai Duo said.

    "I heard the Supreme General might have some designs on Cao Shuo?" Bo Hong suddenly said.

    The two exchanged nces, both smiling knowingly.

    "What a coincidence. Quite the coincidence."

    The two smiled wryly.

    "The Supreme General has a human side, after all. At his age, he still likes to y big," Bo Hong mused.

    "Worthy of our study."

    As the two spoke, their gazes turned towards the Sword Suppression Gate.

    The Cao Shuo they mentioned stood closest under the gate, watching a white figure shine brilliantly against the sky.

    Her expression was immenselyplex, a mixture of emotions.

    She stared for a long time, and finally, with a sigh, said, "You truly aren''t of themon mold, even more extraordinary than I imagined. But now that you''ve revealed your dragon''s form, all manner of serpants, insects, ghosts, and devils will climb up to eat your flesh and drink your blood. Your stunning life, I fear, is more fragile than that of a mayfly."

    Her shock was genuine, and so was her concern.

    She had not expected such an explosion of power; otherwise, she would have urged Yun Xiao to hold back.

    However, the formation of the Sword Prison was a critical step in a Sword Immortal''s advancement. With the fiery pits and mountains of des before him, how could he not advance without sinking into obscurity?

    This path of immortality was fraught with thorns from the start!

    Without a formidable fate, climbing to the heavens from the bottom rungs of the celestialdder was nothing short of delusional.

    Everyone clung to their own steps, drawing from the resources of heaven and earth¡ªwho would willingly let another climb over their heads?

    The solidification of sses was an eternal chasm in the path of immortality!

    This chasm was vividly exemplified by the tens of thousands of envious eyes.

    Yet, throughout it all, Yun Xiao never cared about their stares. His focus was entirely on his Sword Aura and the Sword Suppression Gate. He was even indifferent to the seven rings.

    "My Sword Aura is too resilient; even the seven rings can''t suppress it!" Yun Xiao frowned.

    What to do?

    Now, the entire defensive formation of the Sword Suppression Gate concentrated its violent force upon the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, the thunderous power sufficient to obliterate Yun Xiao. It pounded the sword relentlessly, like countless hammers striking over and over again.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The tumultuous roars continued on the sword.

    Almost 10,000,000yers of Sword Aura formed a dense sea of swords around the Sword Soul, unwavering.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    At the center of the azure Sword Soul, a lotus Sword Heart gathered the Sword Intents of the Eternal Sword and the Cosmic Sword Immortal, mysterious and vast, making the Sword Suppression Gate seem insignificant inparison.

    "The Sword Intent of that Cosmic Sword Immortal, I''ve never truly tapped into it before." Yun Xiao had almost forgotten it. Now, feeling this power again, and seeing the oppressive force from the Sword Suppression Gate, it seemed this Sword Intent was also quite formidable.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The suppression from the Sword Suppression Gate continued relentlessly.

    "The limit of this gate is the seven rings; if it can¡¯t suppress it, am I going to fail?"

    This thought somewhat disheartened Yun Xiao. He was aware that themotion caused by the seven rings had already shaken the entire Thunder Department.

    Below, the Supreme General, Cao Sheng, Gu Suwan, Jiang Taiping, and others had arrived.

    Half of the Thunder Department¡¯s 100 high officials hade in a short time!

    The Grand Firmament Academy now reced the Nine Thunders Arena, and in this night, it became the most dazzling site of the Thunder Department!

    "Congrattions to the Supreme General! Congrattions to General Cao!"

    A chorus of congrattions rose up from beneath the Sword Suppression Gate.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 579: Sword Devil Bloodline!

    Chapter 579: Sword Devil Bloodline!

    ¡°An Emperor among Immortals, a brilliance spanning ages! With the Supreme General as his guardian, this young man shall surely be a pir of the Celestial Court!¡±

    ¡°That tonight marks a historic moment for the Thunder Department, our glory will be forged by this very child!¡±

    ¡°His potential surpasses even that of a Chaos Sovereign!¡±

    Yet, these celebratory voices carried a tone of mounting peril.

    More than a Chaos Sovereign¡ªwhat next? A coup?

    When the so-called Celestial Emperor appeared outside the Divine Gateway of the Celestial Court, the discerning knew it boded ill.

    The Celestial Court had no need for such talents. These congrattions nearly drove Cao Sheng mad. He was beyond words, only able to silently regard Yun Xiao.

    Beside him, Gu Suwan was incredulous. She muttered to herself, ¡°If we nurture his talents¡­¡±

    ¡°Forget it!¡± General Cao snapped, his re cutting her short. ¡°What we need to consider now is how to kill him with the least impact.¡±¡°Seven rings, the appearance of a Celestial Emperor, how exaggerated can it get?¡± Gu Suwan trembled inwardly, pity in her eyes.

    ¡°Who knows?¡± Cao Sheng shook his head. ¡°He was simply born in the wrong era. No use in pitying him.¡±

    ¡°Cao Sheng¡­ Look at the Supreme General¡¯s expression,¡± Gu Suwan suddenly tensed.

    Cao Sheng paused, then looked over to see an old man, his eyes filled with a longing that exceeded imagination, gazing mesmerized at the azure Sword Aura.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go with the flow,¡± Gu Suwan suggested.

    "He shouldn''t fall for temptation. Unless that kid can quickly ascend and be a second Chaos Sovereign immediately, he¡¯s doomed,¡± Cao Sheng remarked deeply.

    ¡°That would be ideal. But still, how about we let someone else step up? Then, we can withdraw as we please!¡± Gu Suwan asserted seriously.

    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Cao Sheng squinted, a sinister smile forming. ¡°Right, right, we''ll make the Supreme General happy by giving him what he wants, and we still get to reap the benefits!¡±

    ¡°This is no hot potato, but truly a double-edged sword, bloody for anyone who wields it¡­¡±

    Amidst the shing lightning, human nature morphed with the dancing serpents of electricity, every member of the Thunder Department pondered their position and future in the roar of thunder.

    ¡°Did you just hear about the scandal between that boy and Cao Shuo?¡± Gu Suwan asked suddenly.

    ¡°At the Sword Suppression Hall, just heard." Cao Sheng nodded. He recalled his little sister talking about how the two of them tangled before too.

    However, he didn''t expect Cao Shuo to take things this far, even daring to do something so scandalous within the Sword Suppression Hall.

    ¡°She¡¯s always been a deeply troubled child. Let her get sucked into this mess with the Supreme General. Meanwhile, we''ll slowly distance ourselves,¡± Gu Suwan said earnestly.

    "Indeed, she and the Supreme General are a perfect match¡­" Cao Sheng remarked, his eyes devoid of any warmth.

    Initially, he just wanted a promotion. But now, with the emergence of the seven rings at the Sword Suppression Gate, the situation had changed. Things had escted.

    "Thisd truly doesn''t realize that he''s be a juicy piece of celestial meat that everyone wants a bite of¡­"

    Gu Suwan shook her head and sighed. "Such a pity, too much of a pity."

    "The sweeter the flesh, the fiercer the beasts it attracts," Cao Sheng sneered coldly.

    Like him, the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department watched with chilling smiles as a Celestial Emperor came into being.

    Their expressions vividly illustrated what it meant to tread the dark path of cultivation!

    Did talent rise and get nurtured, soaring to the heavens?

    Such tales merely belonged in works of fiction in the mortal realm.

    When talent rose, it was devoured on the spot¡­ that was the reality and the norm!

    For this reason, it was moremon for geniuses to endure humiliation and bear heavy burdens until they could secure a solid backing.

    "The question is, has his Sword Prison even formed yet?"

    The crowd continued to watch.

    After a long while, despite the hundreds of thousands of Immortals gathered at the Grand Firmament Academy, no end was in sight!

    Even the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department grew increasingly puzzled.

    "What kind of Sword Soul does he possess?"

    Curiosity grew among the crowd.

    Many were bing impatient!

    "Haven''t you unted enough? We know you''re a Celestial Emperor, no need to show off anymore," Bai Zijun said with a cold sneer.

    "Come down!"

    Coldughter spread throughout the Grand Firmament Academy.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, a massive thunderstorm erupted in the sky, causing all the buildings of the Grand Firmament Academy to tremble.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Then, a series of thunderstorms continued, even causing some of the tens of thousands of Thunder Department immortals to struggle to stand.

    "What?"

    As everyone looked up, under the shing lightning and serpents of electricity, they were all struck dumbfounded.

    Above the vast sky, the Thunder Immortal Formation quivered anew. Amidst thunderous roars, it conjured a colossal vortex of lightning!

    For a moment, the entire formation seemed abination of hundreds of thousands of electric rings, an erged version of the Sword Containment Gate.

    Such a magnificent spectacle was a rarity even for the Thunder Department, causing even the Supreme General to furrow his brow in wonder.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Thunder Immortal Formation whirled, each of its hundreds of thousands of electric rings spinning, creating a deafening cacophony of thunderous roars that momentarily deafened everyone. The billions of shing lights turned the sacrednd of the Thunder Department into the brightest pearl of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, lighting up half of the dark sky canopy!

    "What in the heavens is happening with the Thunder Immortal Formation!!"

    Just as this question arose in everyone¡¯s minds, at the center of the formation, hundreds of thousands of electric rings coalesced into a colorful pir of thunder, which struck down towards the Sword Suppression Gate!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The colorful thunder pir struck precisely at the center of the Sword Suppression Gate right upon Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    In that instant, the Thunder Immortal Formation amplified the Sword Containment''s power a thousandfold!

    "Exhrating!" Yun Xiao¡¯s furrowed brow finally rxed.

    With the aid of the Thunder Immortal Formation, his 10,000,000yers of Sword Aura began to ease, condensing at the brink of extreme pressure into a miniature world.

    This world was an azure lotus¡ªan Azure Lotus Sword Prison!

    Yun Xiao noticed the lotus core within his sword begin to tremble. The sword devil within also entered a frenzied state as it voraciously absorbed the celestial thunder from the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    <em>HUM! </em>The sword devil manifested the visage of the Cosmic Sword Immortal. ck veins spread across his sword''s lotus core, extending to the sword hilt, and interfacing with Yun Xiao¡¯s own bloodstream and binding together!

    In that moment, Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes swiftly turned a dark azure, surrounded by dancing serpents of electricity.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Yun Xiao murmured low, his murderous intent towering as if a devil god had descended.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Kill your butt! Just stabilize your Sword Prison, finish up, and let¡¯s get out of here,¡± Blue Star quipped.

    ¡°Huff¡­¡± Yun Xiao exhaled deeply, disconnecting the sword devil¡¯s bloodline from his palm. And so, his murderous trance dissolved.

    ¡°My Sword Prison is finally formed!¡±

    Regaining his rity, Yun Xiao¡¯s heart gradually calmed.

    He looked up to the sky and saw the hundreds of thousands of electric rings of the Thunder Immortal Formation finally beginning to disperse.

    Looking below, the hundreds of thousands of Immortals were truly stunned into silence,pletely baffled.

    Previously, during the seven rings, all their malevolent thoughts and coldughs seemed also to have been suppressed by the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    ¡°I hope they don¡¯t exaggerate and think I formed the Sword Prison just because of the hundreds of thousands of electric rings. I wanted to keep a low profile¡­¡± Yun Xiaio thought to himself.

    But then, just as he withdrew his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, the age-old Sword Suppression Gate of the Grand Firmament Academy explosively shattered¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    But then, just as he withdrew his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, the age-old Sword Suppression Gate of the Grand Firmament Academy explosively shattered¡­</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 580: Sword Court!

    Chapter 580: Sword Court!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Arge explosion pierced through the eardrums of countless onlookers.

    "Huh!?"

    Hundreds of thousands of Immortals lifted their heads in a daze.

    That cherished artifact, the emblem of the Grand Firmament Academy, the Sword Suppression Gate, exploded into fireworks.

    It detonatedpletely, and amidst the sttering of electric snakes, the Sword Suppression Gate crumbled into dust!

    The explosion was so sudden that in an instant, tragedy was brewed.

    This left nearly all the members of the Thunder Department stupefied, their eyes wide as they watched the scene unfold, their minds nk.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The aftermath of the Sword Suppression Gate''s explosion lingered.

    Until atst, when the dust settled, where once stood the circr return symbol electric gate, there was now nothing but empty space.Many wiped their eyes in disbelief, but it was still gone!

    "The Sword Suppression Gate!!"

    Only when the lightning faded did the cries of disbelief and anguish begin to echo.

    For the Sword Cultivators, the Sword Suppression Gate was too vital.

    And for the Arbiters of the Grand Firmament Academy, the Sword Suppression Gate was a bridge to the pinnacle of the Immortal path.

    Now, that metaphorical bridge had been blown up!

    And so, the smug sneers of just moments ago turned into panic and confusion.

    "Father!" Bai Zijun''s face was frosty, his fingers trembling as he pointed upwards. "The Sword Suppression Gate? It must still be there, right?"

    He was still waiting for the Sword Suppression Gate to forge his second Sword Prison!

    The other elder Sword Cultivators, keen to increase their Sword Prisons, also depended on the Sword Suppression Gate!

    So even Thunder Duke Bai Duo was ashen-faced, his voice hoarse as he said, "It seems to have exploded..."

    "How could it..." Bai Ling''er''s throat felt choked by a lump, overwhelmingly distressed.

    She looked up as the young man in tinum armor gracefully descended from the sky, stifling her words for a long time before finally voicing out, "Did he trigger the Thunder Immortal Formation again, leading to the Sword Suppression Gate''s destruction... Father, this cmity isn''t rted to his talent, is it?"

    For a moment, many eyes turned towards Bai Duo. They sought aforting answer: that the destruction of the Sword Suppression Gate was an ident, not something caused by Yun Xiao''s talent.

    Just moments ago, they had been mocking Yun Xiao for having talent but no backing, calling him a juicy piece of meat.

    But now, that same morsel of meat had shattered the Grand Firmament Academy''s golden rice bowl.

    Was there still room forughter?

    No one wasughing now. With the destruction of the Sword Suppression Gate, many openly wept.

    The entire Grand Firmament Academy was enveloped in a mournful, despair-filled air.

    "Could this mole''s sword talent really be so profound as to shock the heavens and move spirits?" Bai Zijun found such a reality hard to ept. He didn''t just disbelieve; he resented it.

    "Folks, he has destroyed the foundational heritage of the Grand Firmament Academy!"

    "A sinner for the ages!"

    "I implore the elders, please apply the celestialws and let him be obliterated by ten thousand thunders!"

    Anguished, tearful cries of outrage echoed throughout the academy.

    Undoubtedly, Yun Xiao had struck a fierce blow to their pride, and the enmity he drew was off the charts.

    He had sted the very roots of their sword heritage!

    "Though I didn''t start this, oh, it feels good!" Yun Xiao mused. Life was about enjoying such intense emotions. The same people who mocked him so vigorously now wore faces as sour as vinegar.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but look towards a key figure.

    Lightning Lord Bo Hong stood amidst the crowd, hisplexion pale, his eyes stormy with electric fury, and those vengeful eyes seemed to wish they could kill Yun Xiao ten thousand times.

    The Sword Suppression Gate''s destruction hit him the hardest!

    It was more painful than losing his parents.

    It was satisfying enough for Yun Xiao to see Bo Hong internally torn apart. The thought that he harbored such intense murderous intent, yet temporarily could do nothing, was even more satisfying!

    Bo Hong had no choice but to endure because the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General was here!

    "Good! Good! Good!" At this moment, when murderous intents surged wildly, the Supreme General''sugh and apuse nearly took the breath away from the hundreds of thousands of Immortals.

    They stared in disbelief as the Supreme General apuded and said, "Since ancient times it has been said, he who destroys the Sword Suppression Gate is a true Sword Immortal! Truly worthy of a Celestial Emperor! Today, I have truly seen it!"

    Each word the Supreme General spoke pained his own people.

    "Sister..." Bai Zijun felt the sting all over his body. Had he mocked a powerless mole only to see him rise like the Chaos Sovereign due to an uncontroble talent?

    Impossible, right?

    He was perplexed.

    Many were perplexed.

    Only those closest to the Supreme General, like Bo Hong, Cao Sheng, and Bai Duo, remained silent, ultimately choosing to keep their mouths shut.

    "Supreme General," Yun Xiao found his way down and proceeded, "I truly did not foresee that my sword could shatter the Sword Suppression Gate. Now, having unintentionally erred, I am unsure how to rectify this, and seek your guidance."

    "This was not a deliberate act on your part, but a miraculous opportunity in the path of the sword. There is no need for rectification. You are innocent!" The Supreme General chuckled, at a loss for words.

    Those who harbored resentment felt as if they had been pped again, their faces aching with pain.

    Was that it?

    Why did the Supreme General absolve Lu Yao from the significant losses to the Grand Firmament Academy?

    He didn''t have authority over the Grand Firmament Academy, did he?

    People saw the Supreme General recing Cao Sheng, bing the patron, while Yun Xiao, like a great steed, seemed unstoppable... and it hurt their hearts!

    "Don''t envy him; he''spletely ruined now." This remark from Bai Duo finally made his children feel a slight relief.

    "Right, the Supreme General is not one to favor talents."

    Thinking this, many were finally able to let go. In fact, they even started to sneer.

    "Lu Yao, when you return to the Cao Immortal Manorter, let this old man see your Sword Soul and marvel at the miracle of a Celestial Emperor''s sword," the Supreme General said offhandedly.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "It would be my honor." Yun Xiao nodded.

    At this, everyone knew that at least for today, Yun Xiao could walk out of the Grand Firmament Academy with his head held high!

    Any dissatisfaction had to be suppressed.

    Perhaps only in the uing Thunder Department selection could their Grand Firmament Academy vent their frustration.

    But just then, Cao Shuo appeared before Yun Xiao and the Supreme General with a serene smile.

    The news of her scandal with Yun Xiao had just spread.

    If the crowd all knew, how could the Supreme General not be aware?

    Yet, after seeing Yun Xiao, he merely nced at Cao Shuo as usual.

    However, Cao Shuo suddenly said, "Lu Yao, congrattions."

    "Thank you, Aunt Cao," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Just call me Aunt, no need for Cao," Cao Shuo giggled.

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless.

    Did this woman not know how embarrassing she was?

    Then, in front of everyone, Cao Shuo dropped another bombshell. "Your unprecedented feat at the Grand Firmament Academy has been sent to the Sword Court by flying talisman. I believe those sword lunatics will find you interesting. Your future is boundless!"

    As these words were spoken, the expression on the Supreme General''s face suddenly chilled. He looked deeply at Cao Shuo, then smiled and said, "Good."

 Chapter 581: The Supreme Generals Gluttony!

    Yun Xiao had never heard of the Sword Court before, but he surmised it to be a sacred ce of swordsmanship within the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    The sudden mention of this ce by Cao Shuo clearly had a purpose¡ªto protect Yun Xiao. And she was doing so under the heavy scrutiny of the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department!

    By bringing the Sword Court into the fray, the decision over Yun Xiao''s fate would involve more parties. As long as it wasn¡¯t left to one sole arbiter, he would have a chance to survive, threading his way through threats from all sides.

    Since arriving at the Celestial Court, Yun Xiao had always exploited the greed of its high officials to rise through the ranks. This unexpected move by her left him quite astonished.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Has this woman gone mad with desire to possess me?" Yun Xiao wondered, aware of the courage it took to oppose the Supreme General at such a time.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao recalled how Cao Shuo was using him as a human shield against someone pressuring her.

    "Could it be the Supreme General himself?" His gaze shifted, and there he saw the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General, aged yet still surrounded by a tempest of lightning and thunder, brimming with the ferocity of a dragon and the vigor of a tiger¡ªit was indeed possible!

    With this, Yun Xiao sorted out the web of rtionships. Undoubtedly, once forced to reveal his own appealing flesh, he had attracted a slew of gaping maws, putting him in dire straits. Now, it was merely a question of who would bite first.

    The most likely were the ranks of the Grand Firmament Academy. Characters like Bo Hong, Bai Duo, and numerous other high ranking Immortals stood cold as ice, their eyes filled with hatred and intent to kill. Clearly, they sought nothing but Yun Xiao''s demise.

    He was certain that if these talents from the academy encountered him during the Thunder Department selection, they would fight him mercilessly to the death.

    The situation with the Supreme General, Cao Sheng, and Gu Suwan was far moreplex... Andplexity allowed for maneuvering, for often within great danger hid great opportunity!

    Yun Xiao was eager to see how the Supreme General and Cao Sheng would deal with him. Would they swallow him whole in one gulp, or would they leave themselves an out and y it up a bit?

    The answer would soon be revealed!

    Upon hearing mention of the Sword Court, Cao Sheng''s heart roared with a storm of fury. However, he quickly regained hisposure and offered Yun Xiao a smile. ¡°Your achievements today truly shake the heavens and earth. As your father, I am immensely proud.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to your guidance, father,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    No longer merely a disciple, Yun Xiao embraced his elevated status openly. The term <em>father</em> alone drew them closer, changing their rtionship dramatically.

    This wasn''t quite what Cao Sheng had hoped for. The word <em>father</em> was now a trial he had to endure. Yet, for the sake of another, Cao Sheng epted this title.

    Their apparent father-son harmony was enough to make others envious.

    Ignoring the murmurs, Cao Sheng continued with a smile, ¡°To celebrate the formation of your Sword Prison, I intend to give you a gift. Tell me what you desire.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Yun Xiao asked without a moment''s hesitation, ¡°My Sword Prison has just formed. I need more Sword Rings and demon bones, as many as you can provide.¡±

    ¡°Agreed!¡± Cao Sheng dered grandly. ¡°Come, let us return to my estate. In the Treasure Hall, you can choose any Sword Rings and demon bones you like.¡±

    His generosity only deepened the frowns around them.

    ¡°Is Cao Sheng really going to protect this boy at all costs?¡±

    ¡°Such audacity!¡±

    ¡°Watch, this decision will bring him trouble sooner orter.¡±

    ¡°Lu Yao will surely be the death of this general.¡±

    ¡°They deserve whateveres their way!¡±

    Whispers of disapproval filled the air, painting Cao Sheng as a deviant in their eyes.

    ¡°The Cao estate?¡± Only when Yun Xiao heard these words did a chill run through him, and the realization surfaced.

    The Supreme General was not a man who liked to wait. His hunger was immense! This was not a ce where one could hastily swallow troubles whole, so he surely nned to shift the scene to his estate, where he could consume at leisure.

    And so, Cao Sheng was merely facilitating the move, luring Yun Xiao into the secluded chambers of the Cao Immortal Manor.

    ¡°It seems like the Supreme General is in a rush.¡±

    The hundreds of thousands of onlookers watched Yun Xiao coldly, each eager for his demise, though their methods varied.

    "Let''s go home," Gu Suwan beckoned with a charming wave.

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao nodded with a smile.

    "Haha, that''s it, disperse," the Supreme General said with a satisfied grin.

    Cao Shuo frowned deeply.

    Many of the young geniuses had twisted expressions.

    Bo Hong and others also wore inscrutable faces, clearly too familiar with the Supreme General''s ways.

    Something was amiss!

    From a distance, Jiang Taiping watched everything unfold, his hand on his forehead as he sighed. "This young man''s greed has led him into a trap! There''s no returning from the Cao Immortal Manor!"

    Even Cao Sheng had given up decisively, let alone a recently promoted Rank 4 Thunder Emissary like him. If his daughters were disgraced, he''d have to sever ties with a heavy heart.

    Jiang Taiping turned to his daughters, his heart heavy.

    "Dad, Lu Yao has truly soared to great heights!" Jiang Heqing said excitedly, gripping her father''s hand.

    "His life is even shorter now; he might not survive the night," Jiang Taiping murmured, shaking his head.

    "What did you say?" Jiang Haiyan asked, puzzled.

    "Nothing," Jiang Taiping shushed softly, forcing a smile. "Let''s go celebrate too."

    And so, under the darkened sky, a grand disy of talent concluded.

    The name Lu Yao echoed once more through the Thunder Department!

    Who could have predicted that a youth, missing for ten years, would cause such a stir in the Thunder Department in just a few days?

    Tonight''s performance was earth-shattering and soul-stirring!

    Only after the Supreme General departed did people dare to disperse.

    Members of the Grand Firmament Academy stayed, unable to vent their frustration.

    Many talented geniuses vowed to make Yun Xiao pay dearly in the remaining four rounds of the Thunder Department selections.

    Under their threatening gazes, Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan escorted Yun Xiao safely away from the perilous academy, heading toward the Cao Immortal Manor.

    As they flew over the market streets of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, the entire city buzzed with talk of Yun Xiao''s regal immortal presence.

    "Congrattions, General Cao! Blessed with a divine gifted son!"

    Along the way, the Immortals of Thunder Department praised Lu Yao. This was precisely why the Supreme General couldn¡¯t deal with Yun Xiao publicly.

    The shattering of the Sword Suppression Gate and the ordinary immortals of the Thunder Department had little connection; those of lower status and origin were the ones who supported the rise ofmoner talents.

    That was also why the Chaos Sovereign enjoyed such poprity!

    When Yun Xiao stepped out of the Grand Firmament Academy, he was astounded to find himself the center of an immense rally of support from the Thunder Department¡ªa startling surge in his poprity.

    "It appears that while the roots of the Thunder Department might have rotted through, at least for now, its myriad branches seem healthy," Yun Xiao mused.

    Previously, the mid-level Immortals of the Thunder Department couldn''t tolerate his brashness. But now, there was only one phrase on their lips.

    "Why shouldn''t the regal bearing of an Emperor rule supremely and quell all dissent?"

    This revtion left Yun Xiao somewhat pensive. "Outside the Celestial Court, anywhere I disy this unimaginable peak talent, I am nearly worshipped as divine. Only here do I need to tread carefully!"

    The Grand Firmament Academy sought his demise. Figures like the Supreme General, Cao Sheng, and Jiang Taiping, they all wanted a piece of him!

    Now, the <em>eating faction</em> was gaining the upper hand, ready to whisk Yun Xiao off to the Cao Immortal Manor for their own ends.

    Did the shock of the Thunder Department¡¯s billion souls at his talents matter? His death would silence their cheers; could they advocate for him then?

    And so, from start to finish, the Great Dao Celestial Realm was a ce of cruel pragmatism.

    Ahead, Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan beamed, glowing with the joy of someone carrying a fat pig to market, all too eager to present it to the Supreme General of the Thunder Department.

    They weren''t hiding their intentions any longer!

    "It seems like anyone above Rank 6 in the Celestial Court ispletely rotten to the core," Yun Xiao reflected bitterly. What now? Turning back, he saw Cao Shuo¡¯s violet silhouette still following behind.

    Even the mention of the Sword Court hadn¡¯t been enough to quell the Supreme General¡¯s greed... She must have been feeling helpless. They had already left the academy.

    The Supreme General was not around.

    On this street, it was just the Cao Family and Yun Xiao.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao stopped in his tracks.

    "Auntie," he called out to Cao Shuo.

    Cao Shuo paused, her face a mask of frost,posed.

    Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan halted as well, smiling as they looked at Yun Xiao.

    Gu Suwan asked, "Lu Yao, what¡¯s the matter?"

    "There is something I need to rify with you both," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

 Chapter 582: Foster Son! Brother-In-Law!

    "Oh?" A mysterious gleam flickered in Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan''s eyes.

    Yet, they were still in a public ce!

    When Yun Xiao paused, the surrounding Immortals from the Thunder Department grew excited. They crowded closer, eager to witness the divine spectacle of the Celestial Emperor.

    Honestly, Yun Xiao''s soaring poprity at that moment was something neither Cao Sheng nor Gu Suwan had anticipated.

    With the arrival of Cao Shuo, thoughts naturally drifted back to the romantic tale that had been widely circted about the aunt and nephew.

    The explosive moment arrived!

    Yun Xiao, in front of everyone, continued with Cao Shuo. He reached out and intimately wrapped his arm around his aunt¡¯s slender waist, pulling her close.

    This gesture undoubtedly confirmed their scandalous affair to all present.

    "You two?" Cao Sheng''s eyes narrowed slightly."Father," Yun Xiao earnestly and sincerely began, "I must confess to you both, my aunt and I fell in love at first sight and have already pledged ourselves to each other. We share no blood ties, and though such a union will surely set tongues wagging, I ask for your blessing so that we may each go our own way¡ªI as your brother-inw, and you as my foster father. These roles need not conflict."

    "..." Cao Sheng was speechless.

    Had anyone else spoken such absurd words, Cao Sheng would have ttened them into a pulp with a single p.

    "Cao Shuo!" Cao Sheng didn''t respond to Yun Xiao but instead turned his prating gaze to Cao Shuo, his voice tight with restraint, "Marriage is no trifling matter. You must consider yourself carefully."

    He emphasized ¡°yourself¡± pointedly, a reminder to Cao Shuo that she had already troubled the Supreme General once. If she persisted in her folly, she could not me her brother for being ruthless.

    "Of course, I''ve thought it through," Cao Shuo replied with a radiant smile, yfully pinching Yun Xiao''s cheek. "Look at him¡ªyouthful, vigorous, handsome, and blessed with the talents of a Celestial Emperor. Isn''t he the ideal match? Since he favors someone mature like me, I am, of course, more than happy to cater to him."

    Their words set off a wave of excitement among the Immortals of the Thunder Department.

    The love story was brutal and direct¡ªfirst rumors and scandals, and now a public acknowledgment, which somehow seemed to make them a perfect match.

    "Let them be!"

    "May the lovers be united!"

    "One young and bold, the other all-embracing¡ªtruly a match made by heaven."

    "They share no blood; there''s no need for such old-fashioned concerns," the crowd mused, enjoying the drama and seemingly moved by the outrageous affair.

    "No way!" Lightning shed through Cao Sheng''s mind.

    To be honest, he was beside himself with anger. He knew better than anyone that all this talk of love was nonsense; Cao Shuo was merely using the public''s favor to leverage Yun Xiao once more.

    Yun Xiao had called over Cao Shuo, fully aware of the grim fate that awaited him in the Cao Immortal Manor.

    "Though you share no blood, you bear the rtionship of aunt and nephew. Any breach of propriety could tarnish Lu Yao''s reputation," Cao Sheng spoke coldly.

    "Please." Cao Shuo produced a shimmering orb and said, "I picked this up on the way here. Everyone in the Thunder Department knows our fire''s already zing. Reputation? Brother, you''re outdated. These days, true love knows no sin."

    "Exactly!"

    The crowd jeered again, further cornering Cao Sheng.

    "If it reallyes to it, you should just renounce your foster son and simply be his brother-inw. That¡¯s still keeping it in the family."

    "That¡¯s right!"

    The crowd not only agreed with this match but even offered Cao Sheng their advice.

    "Cao Shuo." Cao Sheng, no longer caring to instill fear in Yun Xiao, said sternly, "Your stubbornness could be the death of you."

    "Brother, you''re exaggerating. It''s just a romance. How could it kill anyone?" Cao Shuoughed dismissively, unfazed by the threat.

    The bystanders were speechless. How could such a joyous asion lead to death?

    At that moment, Yun Xiao said decisively, "If my foster father cannot ept this, then perhaps it¡¯s best to end this father-son rtionship."

    His words were firm.

    But firmness required backing.

    In the past, such a statement would have been seen as madness.

    Now, it seemed just right.

    With this simple deration, electricity surged around Cao Sheng. Had Gu Suwan not held him back at that moment, he might have erupted.

    "Let''s give each other some time to cool off," Yun Xiao said, linking arms with Cao Shuo and addressing Cao Sheng, "I''ll wait until you approve before I visit the Cao Immortal Manor to receive your guidance and support. For now, we''ll take our leave."

    With that, Yun Xiao and Cao Shuo, a couple charged with love, departed under the admiring gazes of the onlookers.

    "Their love is brave and fierce."

    "Indeed!"

    "Lu Yao is really headstrong, such character."

    "No wonder the Thunder Emissary adores him!"

    As the celebratory chatter continued, Cao Sheng repeatedly fought the urge to erupt and seize Yun Xiao, consequences be damned.

    But Gu Suwan held him back!

    So, for the moment, Yun Xiao managed to escape.

    "What are you doing?" Cao Sheng asked Gu Suwan in a low growl.

    "When the Supreme General instructed us to bring him over, weplied without defiance. It was your sister who, intent on her own demise, manipted public opinion to take him away. How does that involve us?" Gu Suwan stated.

    Cao Sheng paused for a moment, then added, "Indeed. We only need to ensure we do not cross the Supreme General, when and how he handles this is his concern."

    "Right." Gu Suwan nodded.

    "But by doing so, my sister will face the Supreme General''s wrath manifold," Cao Sheng said through clenched teeth.

    "First, she defies the Supreme General, jeopardizing your career. Then she alerts the Sword Court and now she''s forcibly taken Lu Yao... She has pushed you to the brink over and over. Do you still consider her your sister? Please, she''s like a mortal enemy. Now what? If she doesn''t die, will we ever have peace?" Gu Suwan scoffed coldly.

    "Indeed, she''s seeking her own end." With that thought, Cao Sheng felt relieved.

    "Have someone keep tabs on them, constantly update us on their whereabouts. Let''s go report to the Supreme General. Unless he worries about the repercussions, those two, no matter where they flee, will find no refuge," Gu Suwan said coldly.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "This boy, his talent is extraordinary, yet he¡¯s sabotaged his own path at every turn," Cao Sheng murmured somberly.

    Gu Suwan shook her head and sighed, "To put it simply, he appears clever, but deep down, his arrogance and his lowly origins breed a crippling inferiorityplex. He tries to be discreetly intelligent, yet also yearns to show off and trample others, unable to control himself. So, he stirs up such trouble. If he truly had talent and enough wisdom, nobody would have noticed him before his rise, and he wouldn''t be flirting with death."

    "Indeed, a person like that, with a different mindset, would truly be terrifying," Cao Sheng remarked with augh.

    "The Supreme General wants to rece the head on this talented individual," Gu Suwan mentioned.

    Looking at the still jubntly chatting Immortals of the Thunder Department, Gu Suwan frowned. "The only issue now is his poprity among the rank-and-file of the Thunder Department. These folks might not have much influence, but they love to gossip. If the Supreme General acts harshly, causing a bad impression, our reputation will suffer too."

    "Indeed, the Divine Gateway does take the opinion of the Immortal officials at the grassroots seriously..."

    They exchanged a look.

    They felt that by thetter half of the night, they should have an answer.

    "There''s a 90% chance Lu Yao won¡¯t be participating in the final four rounds of the Thunder Department¡¯s selection tomorrow."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In Sky Soaring City, at the heart of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, was the Judicial Hall¡ªa ce where the Judicial Immortal, Liu Zongyu, often dwelled.

    This ce was the central power of Arbiters in the city!

    It was deep in the night with no one around.

    Liu Mumu stood, d in her Arbiter armor, leaning against the pir of the Judicial Hall''s entrance. Her eyes were closed, her face pale, with veins of red threading through her eyes¡ªan unmistakable sign of profound sorrow and anger.

    She waited. And waited.

    Atst, outside Sky Soaring City, two streaks of sword light descended. Following this, two figures entered amidst the reverent greetings of the Arbiters and strode back to the Judicial Hall.

    As they crossed the threshold, these two imposing and solemn men shared a smile, conversing in low, jovial tones.

    It was the Rank 6 Judicial Immortal Liu Zongyu and his eldest son, Liu Chaochao.

    As the two entered, Liu Chaochao, his face aglow, chuckled and said, "With Old Lu gone, you have no rivals left. Once Jiang Taiping finishes the paperwork, father, you can be a Rank 5 Heavenly Officer."

    Liu Zongyu also allowed himself a rare chuckle, responding, "Today is indeed our lucky day. Your gains from the lower realm are substantial enough, though we must remember to stay humble and cautious, even as Sky Soaring City bes ours."

    It was then that they noticed Liu Mumu.

    "Little sister?" Liu Chaochao''s eyes lit up as he said, "You''re back from the Thunder Department? Perfect timing, I have some good news to share."

    But Liu Zongyu noticed his daughter''s distress first and asked with concern, "Mumu, is there some bad news? Don''t worry, we''ll handle it for you."

    Liu Mumu turned her dark red eyes towards him, then shifted her gaze to Liu Chaochao.

    In that moment, her voice was hoarse with pain as she looked at her brother and asked, "Brother, can you tell me how you managed to break through four stages in just one night?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 583: The Depravity of the Immortal Path

    Chapter 583: The Depravity of the Immortal Path

    When Liu Chaochao heard Liu Mumu''s question, he paused, momentarily lost for words.

    It wasn¡¯t the question itself that caught him off guard, but rather the manner in which Liu Mumu had asked it. She was under extreme duress, each word trembling as it left her lips.

    Just as Liu Chaochao was about to speak, their father, Liu Zongyu,id a hand on him, signaling with a nce to hold back. Turning to Liu Mumu with a smile, he said, ¡°Your brother is fortunate. He had an epiphany that saved him many years of harsh cultivation.¡±

    Liu Mumu¡¯s eyes, fiery red, turned to her father, her voice quivering, ¡°So devouring the lifespan of mortals in the lower realm for cultivation is now called having an <em>epiphany</em>? Do prettier names let you forget the brutal sins youmit?¡±

    The words struck Liu Chaochao deeply, causing a visible jolt in his spirit. Clenching his fists and grinding his teeth, he quickly said, ¡°Mumu, I...¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t speak,¡± Liu Zongyu interrupted, his smile fading as he red at Liu Chaochao, then turned back to his daughter sternly. ¡°You¡¯ve known about this for a long time. You know it¡¯smon practice in the Celestial Court. If you don¡¯t do it, someone else will, and they¡¯ll surpass and trample you! My daughter, your heart is too soft. You don''t understand the harsh realities of the Immortal path.¡±

    ¡°Is the cruelty of the Immortal path an excuse for your atrocities?¡± Liu Mumu felt a chill rush to her head.

    Could this man really be the father she revered? Why did he seem like aplete stranger to her now?

    ¡°Enough!¡± Liu Zongyu exploded. ¡°Stop with your holier-than-thou act. This is an epted practice of cultivation by the Celestial Court. A mere Rank 8 Arbiter Commander like you is in no position to critique!¡±¡°epted practice of cultivation¡­¡± Tears streamed down Liu Mumu¡¯s cheeks as she trembled, ¡°Father, those were living, breathing souls. How many people did you kill to advance my brother''s cultivation? How many sins have youmitted? Have you even counted? Committing such grave sins invites retribution! A monstrous crime doesn¡¯t be non-criminal just because manymit it!¡±

    ¡°Silence!¡± Liu Zongyu¡¯s face turned frosty as he suddenly pped Liu Mumu, knocking her to the ground, then coldly scolded, "I''m warning you, thews of the Celestial Court follow the heavenly path. You''re no longer a naive child. You¡¯ve been part of the Skyruler Immortal Manor for years; you know the unspoken rules better than I do. Don¡¯t y the fool here. If you''re capable, go and rebuke others. Don¡¯t target your brother and jeopardize his future!¡±

    The p was undoubtedly the most despairing moment of her life.

    Liu Mumu knelt on the ground, her cheek burning with pain. Shaking her head in disbelief, she stared at Liu Zongyu, her heart shattering within.

    "I knew all along this was a sin, but I never imagined that my dearest family would sumb to greed, abandoning the faith of the Immortal path¡­" Liu Mumu clenched her fists, her eyes filled with bloody tears as she turned to Liu Chaochao. "Brother, a wrong does not be right just because many are doing it!"

    "Mumu, you are truly na?ve. Everyone ispeting; if I don''t do it, I have no future in the Celestial Court," Liu Chaochao replied with a resolve that had hardened over time.

    "You choose to trade the lives of countless mortals for your own future!" Liu Mumu stood up and yelled at him.

    In her eyes, her brother was supposed to be the embodiment ofw and justice.

    "Don¡¯t be foolish; this is the path of the Immortals! If you feel ufortable, then leave; go away with your useless lover, that Lu An, to the utopia you¡¯ve chosen and lead a carefree life. I would rather not acknowledge you as my daughter!" Liu Zongyu¡¯s anger boiled, his eyes expressing his disappointment deeply.

    "Lu An..." Liu Mumu¡¯s already torn heart was pierced anew. This stab truly tore her heart apart.

    Even now, they still treated her like a fool, still lied, still covered up everything they had done.

    Liu Mumu looked at them in despair¡ªa stern, authoritative father, and a bright, upright older brother. They stood in the dark night, looking at her with disappointment, their faces painted with a chilling frost.

    Unseen spirits struggled and screamed behind them. It was the most merciless cmity of the mortal world. The divine figures people worshipped devoured everything on earth.

    The high officials of the Celestial Court called it having an <em>epiphany or</em> receiving <em>offerings of incense.</em>

    One couldn¡¯t speak out against these ghastly acts, for speaking would disrupt the spiritual path.

    The high officials beautified everything, still proiming themselves as the protectors of the heavens and earth.

    ¡°My daughter, let me tell you onest thing!¡± Liu Zongyu said, looking down at his daughter. With each word deliberate and profound, he continued, ¡°On thedder of the Immortal path, those at the bottom are but pigs and livestock; those at the top are truly human. If mortals can elevate livestock to their dining tables, why can¡¯t Immortals consume mortal lives as they wish?¡±

    Liu Mumuughed. Sheughed through her tears, gazing at her father as he lectured with grandeur. She knew how to counter his words.

    Humans could be Immortals, but could livestock be human? And, was he truly an Immortal? Or just a stronger man?

    Humans were the most intelligent of creatures; demons needed to take human form to gain wisdom. Devils, it appeared, were just another kind of human.

    Immortals¡­ were they divine, or were they merely human? Or perhaps, did Immortals even exist at all?

    Liu Mumu knew everything now. But she chose not to speak. Instead, she shook her head, smiling, her tears especially luminous in the darkness.

    "Reflect well!" Liu Zongyu paid her no more heed, leading the silent Liu Chaochao into the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    <em>SLAM! </em>The grand doors closed, leaving Liu Mumu standing alone in the courtyard that symbolized thews of heaven.

    In the ck of night, her despairing eyes gradually grew intense.

    "Lu An, I finally understand you."

    Her palm trembled as she slowly opened it. There, a Projection Orby, still warm with his presence.

    And with it, the copse of his beliefs! The sphere seemed like his eyes, gazing back at her.

    At that moment, Liu Mumu felt as if she truly saw him¡­ Her bloodshot eyes finally showed a hint of warmth.

    In the darkness, her tears turned toughter.

    "You were always the bravest."

    People often wondered, why did she fall for him? With her looks and talents, she could easily gain the favor of another scion of a noble family. Yet, she still chose Lu An.

    Liu Mumu could not articte why she was drawn to him. Perhaps it was his persistence, his resilience, his kindness, his diligence, his reliability¡­ Yet, within the dark maze of the Celestial Court, without the backing of family heritage or innate talent, none of these traits mattered!

    No one cared. And so, he perished like a moth to a me, not even causing a ripple in Sky Soaring City. Only his blind mother remained, pitifully waiting for the return of a son that would nevere home.

    Miss Yu never dared to ask Liu Mumu about Lu An. A mother''s intuition was sharp. She was afraid. As long as she didn¡¯t ask, there was still hope. But today, she learned about what Lu An had been concealing, and the burdens that he''d been carrying on the day he returned.

    Lu An could have remained silent and continued his role as a Rank 9 Arbiter of the Celestial Court. But he chose to perish like a moth to a me, yearning to seek justice for the mortal realm!

    And so, Lu An sought out Liu Zongyu and Jiang Taiping, believing they were the radiant sun while unaware that they were but a deadly abyss that would consume him!

    "Lu An..." As Liu Mumu whispered his name, tears fell once more. But this time, her gaze was resolute, intense! It was a determination without regret, a courage weing death!

    "The road to the underworld is too harsh. Please wait for me¡­" She murmured, clutching the Projection Orb, fading like a glimmer into the bloody shadows of the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>An hourter, a deafening drumbeat resonated through the busiest marketce of Sky Soaring City!

    As darkness fell¡ªa time unsuitable for cultivation¡ªthe nights, in these peaceful times, often buzzed more lively than the days.

    Such a dull drum sound naturally captured the attention of many.

    "It sounds like the Skyruler Drum!"

    "Who is seeking justice?"

    "Wait, who moved the Skyruler Drum into the middle of the marketce...?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The urgent drumbeats drew the curious crowd like a tide to the center of the marketce!

    It was here that Yun Xiao first encountered Liu Mumu, where she had announced the death of the Seventh Princess.

    Tonight, she returned to the same spot, d in her majestic Arbiter armor, her demeanor bold and her spirit grand. Her eyes sparkled, her hands powerful, as she struck the Skyruler Drum again and again, each hit sending ripples through the air.

    Many who saw her, even with just a nce, were deeply captivated.

    "Commander Liu looks particrly ethereal tonight."

    In Sky Soaring City, who did not know her? She was born into a prominent family, with exceptional talent, known for her integrity and upright character!

    All themon folk in Sky Soaring City knew her well!

    And in a few days, her position would rise further as her father became the next governor of Sky Soaring City!

    "Is Commander Liu announcing something important again?"

    "Let''s hurry over!"

    "It must be good news."

    The crowd felt a vague unease because the Skyruler Immortal Manor had never used the Skyruler Drum to announce news.

    The Skyruler Drum was for seeking justice!

    <em>BOOM! </em>By the time the drum had sounded 39 times, at least tens of thousands had gathered in the marketce, with many more watching from afar.

    "What is it, Commander Liu?"

    The more they watched her, the more unsettled they felt.

    Something was off about her. Even as she appeared fiery and decisive, the crowd could see the turmoil within her¡ªa heart torn and crumbling!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With that final beat, the drumming abruptly stopped.

    She raised her head in the dark night, her eyes a striking red.

    "Commander Liu..."

    The people grew tense.

    Under their watchful eyes, Liu Mumu crouched down. In her palm, several Projection Orbs appeared. She rolled these orbs toward the crowd. From a great Bag of Holding, tens of thousands of these Projections Orbs spilled out, cascading like beams of light toward the citizens of Sky Soaring City.

    "What are these?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The crowd was confused, some bewildered. They all knew the answersy within these orbs! So, in groups of a few or even dozens, people began to y the scene captured within these orbs.

 Chapter 584: Im Going to Join Your Older Brother, Take Care of Yourself

    Chapter 584: I''m Going to Join Your Older Brother, Take Care of Yourself

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The inscriptions of the Projection Orbs activated and reyed the scene captured within. Each orb of light and shadow held the same content!

    One by one, figures seated on the ground appeared, aging rapidly. They looked utterly lost, as if their minds had deserted them, using their own lives to practice a certain technique.

    "Could this ce be the mortal realm?"

    "What are they doing?"

    As people watched, confusion spread among them.

    "It seems to be a bewitching art, someone is devouring the life essence of the living!"

    Soon, someone recognized the method.

    "Indeed it is!"

    "Who''s behind this?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om"The recording shows it¡¯s a cmity for everyone, doesn¡¯t it?"

    Following the perspective of the recorder, the tragedy shifted views until it finally settled before a peach blossom formation! From it emerged the young Immortal, Tao Shuo!

    "Who is this?"

    At first, no one recognized him. But out of hundreds of thousands, there were some who did!

    "That''s one of the servants of Gu Sutao! Lightning Duchess Gu Suwan once paid a visit to Sky Soaring City with her, and I saw that young boy following the pair!"

    "Was this the work of Gu Sutao?"

    Clearly, Gu Sutao was well-known in Sky Soaring City, otherwise Lu An wouldn¡¯t have recognized her at a nce!

    After exposing Gu Sutao, Sky Soaring City was shaken! The Projection Orb had recorded everything too clearly! One could say the evidence was irrefutable.

    "Commander Liu!"

    Suddenly, the crowd was stirred, looking towards Liu Mumu.

    "Are you leveraging the influence of usmon folk to expose the misdeeds of Gu Sutao?"

    "No problem! Although Gu Sutao is powerful, we are many and we have the evidence!"

    The people were filled with righteous indignation, barely able to believe that such evil could exist in the world.

    Their hatred for evil was as deep as a personal vendetta, and Liu Mumu saw it all. Perhaps, to her, the people''s reaction meant that there was still hope for the Celestial Court...

    At the height of the crowd''s fury, however, Liu Mumu turned her gaze towards the Skyruler Immortal Manor and spoke with a trembling voice, "No... I am not here to expose Gu Sutao''s misdeeds."

    "What is it then?" the people hurriedly asked.

    Liu Mumu tensed uppletely. She clenched thest Projection Orb in her hand, as if using all her strength, and uttered a statement.

    "I am here to tell all themon folk of the Celestial Court the cruelest truth of this world from Lu An!"

    With these words, everyone was stunned. Those who didn¡¯t understand, truly didn¡¯t understand. Those who did, felt a chill creep up their scalp!

    "Lu An?" Many recalled the Rank 9 Arbiter, always busy with his duties!

    Such an ordinary man was no better than anyone present. What truth could he possibly know?

    From the moment Liu Mumu spoke those words, her time began to count down!

    It was undoubtedly the most desperate act of burning one''s bridges!

    She knew better than anyone what she was confronting!

    She was acutely aware that if this truth spread widely among the lower ranks of the Celestial Court, it would cause an upheaval never seen before!

    These Heavenly Officers, feeding off the life force of the mortal realms and monopolizing the hierarchy... What would the lower Immortals think?

    She knew all the consequences! But, she had made her decision!

    Yun Xiao was fighting against the colossal beast of the Celestial Court for the sake of fairness.

    She too wanted to do something!

    It started at this moment!

    "I want to tell you all a story about the Ascension Pool¡­ about how there have been no Ascenders in the Celestial Court for a very long time¡­ about how the celestialw forbidding Immortals from descending to the mortal realms has been repeatedly broken, even if it''s a grave crime punishable by death!

    "This story has been spread only through whispers among Rank 6 Heavenly Officers and their families. Anyone who dares to openly talk about it is to be met with the harshest punishment for them and their entire n!

    "And today, I have decided to stake my life to tell this story to all truth-seekers of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!"

    Hearing this, someone already began recording anew with another Projection Orb.

    Upon the path of the Immortals, none were fools, and they already sensed that Liu Mumu''s forting words would shock the world.

    The crowd looked up, invigorated.

    In their eyes, this woman, born of a distinguished family, who should have been aloof and domineering, now held a look of determination and a divine light that truly made her seem like an Immortal...

    It started with the Ascension Pool, and then with the offerings of incense¡­!

    Liu Mumu was always a girl of outstanding talent, and for her to summarize a tragic story in concise words was no difficult task.

    Her words were restrained. Yet from the beginning, people could hear immense sorrow in her speech.

    As tears welled up in her eyes once again, many among the crowd also felt an overwhelming pain amidst their confusion.

    What, after all, was the meaning of life?

    Were the lives of those in the mortal realms regarded as human, or were they deemed no more than beasts or mere dust?

    As the truth spread through Sky Soaring City, many saw their aspirations for the Immortal path shattered right then and there.

    What Liu Mumu spoke of was a dark veil looming over the mortal realms, the most merciless story ever told in the history of the Celestial Court!

    And what was recorded in that Projection Orb was just a fragment of this dark canopy!

    From the small, one could glimpse the greater picture!

    How could the truth be known unless one were to descend to the mortal realm and see for oneself?

    When the story ended, themon folk of Sky Soaring City fell into utter silence.

    Heavy clouds of despair hung over everyone¡¯s heads.

    The people felt suffocated, struggling to breathe under the oppressive weight.

    Everyone looked up once again at the woman d in Arbiter armor! She seemed relieved, having done everything she possibly could for the world.

    In that moment, as if she saw Lu An, a slight smile appeared on her lips, a rxed smile that was profoundly beautiful.

    But everyone knew, after telling that story, she could not possibly survive!

    She wasn''t just exposing Gu Sutao or Gu Suwan; she was challenging the entire Thunder Department, even the whole Celestial Court!

    She even spoke of her older brother Liu Chaochao''s recent descent to the mortal realm.

    She was simply avenging Lu An...

    ¡°Commander Liu...¡±

    Hundreds of thousands of gazes fixed upon her, the woman who had dared to speak the truth.

    Her final carefree smile was etched into memory, destined to be remembered by those who witnessed it for a lifetime.

    "Everyone, the story is told, now go!" Liu Mumu roared.

    The people stared back with red eyes, shaking their heads.

    "Go!" she yelled.

    Only then did they start to move, each step reluctant, looking back thrice.

    What would be of her?

    "Liu Mumu!!!"

    A thunderous roar erupted from the direction of the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Swords of celestial light hurtled towards her.

    The anger in the roar was palpable.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Judicial Immortal Liu Zongyu crashed to the ground, towering and formidable. His eyes blood red, his face was pale, and his massive frame trembled.

    Next to him, Liu Chaochao could barely stand. He knew the worst had befallen their family.

    No matter the oue, father and son were doomed.

    Liu Zongyu, heart quaking, pointed at Liu Mumu and dered, "Arbiter Commander Liu Mumu, for fabricating evidence, deceiving the public, and ndering the celestialws¡­ Strip her of her Arbiter status and take her into custody for punishment!"

    <em>KLANK! </em>Liu Mumu unsped her Arbiter armor and threw it to the ground. With a smile and her chin up, she said, "Liu Zongyu, kill me."

    "Take her into custody!" Liu Zongyu roared, ovee with fury.

    Behind him, thousands of Arbiters stood staring at Liu Mumu, their faces pale.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    It waste at night in the Thunder Department''s Hall of Soaring Thunder¡­

    Jiang Taiping was pacing within the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion.

    "Governor!" Someone entered hurriedly, handing over a flying talisman. "Madame Lu sent a message! There¡¯s been a major incident in Sky Soaring City!"

    "What?" Jiang Taiping immediately tensed upon seeing the flying talisman''s script. After reading it, he staggered, nearly copsing, his face turning ashen on the spot.

    "It''s over! It''s all over!" His fear, even with his high status, indicated the severity this news represented.

    "Find General Cao!" With a trembling voice, Jiang Taiping quickly dashed off.

    Inside the Cao Immortal Manor, General Cao Sheng and his wife, Gu Suwan, were ying chess in the courtyard.

    "General Cao!" Jiang Taiping burst in, disregarding formalities, and kneeled to present the talisman to Cao Sheng.

    Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan nced at it a few times.

    Both took a deep breath.

    Cao Sheng suddenly pped Jiang Taiping on the head, his voice deep, "Get up, what¡¯s the panic?"

    "This news will surely shake the entire Celestial Court, causing chaos under the heavens..." Jiang Taiping blurted out incoherently before handing the flying talisman to General Cao.

    Gu Suwan chuckled softly. "You underestimate the Celestial Court¡¯s ability to control public opinion."

    "But what about the hundreds of thousands of people?" Jiang Taiping said with a trembling voice.

    Cao Sheng shrugged. "It''s been many years, and there have been many foolishly righteous figures like Liu Mumu. Blow-ups like this aren''t new, have you seen any news spread until now?"

    "That¡¯s true." Jiang Taiping thought about it more carefully and it seemed to make sense.

    This involved the core interests of the Celestial Court''s top officials; how could they let nobodies stir up trouble?

    Because the matter touched upon himself, Jiang Taiping panicked.

    Cao Sheng nced at him with irritation and said, "You don''t even have the sense of a woman!"

    "General Cao, then I..."

    "Just do as Madame Lu said. Doesn''t she have a Truth Gu? Feed it to Liu Mumu, take control of her body, and have her publicly confess, admitting she fabricated lies to retaliate against her father and brother," Cao Sheng said indifferently.

    "What about the hundreds of thousands of people?" Jiang Taiping asked.

    "You overestimate the anger of themoners. In a few days, some new news will emerge, and they''ll forget all about this," Cao Sheng shrugged.

    "Jiang Taiping, you need to understand something," Gu Suwan said with a smile. "The offering of incense, it doesn''t burn the ordinary Immortals. If it doesn¡¯t concern them, they ultimately won''t exert themselves. There¡¯s a reason they only mingle at the lower levels of the Celestial Court."

    "I understand!" Jiang Taiping finally rxed and smiled, speaking righteously, "I''ll return to Sky Soaring City right away, make Liu Mumu eat the Truth Gu and confess, then parade her to the marketce for a public beheading!"

    ...?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    It was deep into the night. Yun Xiao wasn''t with Cao Shuo.

    After leaving Cao Sheng''s control, he walked away with a cold face, wandering the corners of the Thunder Department.

    For some reason, he felt increasingly irritable. Just then, he received a flying talisman. Only Commander Liu and he shared parent-and-child talismans.

    Yun Xiao took the talisman, and his eyes immediately reddened.

    It read¡ª

    ¡¸<em>I''m going to join your older brother now, take care of yourself.</em>¡¹<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 585: Skyruler Evil-Slaying Blade!

    Chapter 585: Skyruler Evil-ying de!

    Sky Soaring City!

    It was the dead of night!

    Under the shroud of darkness, the entire city was a seething cauldron of uproar.

    Fueled by outrage, the popce broadcasted the mass murders beingmitted among the stars of the mortal realm with flying talismans, gathering en masse outside the Skyruler Immortal Manor. They besieged this bastion of celestialw, sealing it off without an avenue for escape.

    "Release her! Release her!"

    The voices of themoners, uniform and incensed, battered the walls of the Skyruler Immortal Manor again and again.

    Clearly, Liu Mumu''s integrity, along with her evidence, had won the approval of the citizens.

    Thousands of Arbiters encircled the manor, eyeing the restless crowd with a hint of nerves.

    Even they had never witnessed such a scene ofplete revolt under the rule of the Celestial Court."Free Commander Liu, and report to the divine channels!"

    "Root out the true viin, and answer for the chaos in the mortal realm!"

    Yet, their demands revealed a lingering shred of hope in the righteousness of the Celestial Court.

    There was still salvation to be had!

    "Release her!"

    The cries kept Sky Soaring City at a boiling point, stirring nearly every inhabitant to converge near the Skyruler Immortal Manor to witness the spectacle.

    "If she''s not released, we storm the Skyruler Immortal Manor!"

    Soon, the public''s fury reached a fever pitch beyond control.

    If the city''s main government office were breached, even the Thunder Department would face utter disgrace.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, the grand gates of the Skyruler Immortal Manor burst open, and a procession of celestial officials of majestic stature stepped forth.

    There were about a dozen figures, their aura overpowering! Their mere appearance, even before a word was spoken, quelled the crowd with a divine authority that pressed down the voices of indignation.

    These were the titans of Sky Soaring City!

    Liu Zongyu, Lord Zhao, and Lord Chen¡­ these Rank 6 Heavenly Officers of the Celestial Court were all present.

    Beside Liu Zongyu stood Madame Lu, d in a in white gown that radiated a stark, cold dignity.

    Yet, all eyes were instantly drawn to the elder at the center, youthful despite his silver hair.

    "Governor Jiang has returned!"

    Jiang Taiping, who had cultivated his esteemed reputation in Sky Soaring City for many years,manded supreme authority. His mere presence, before he even spoke, subdued many with his formidable aura.

    "Silence!" Jiang Taiping''smand thundered like a storm breaking suddenly over still fields, quelling the bubbling tumult of the scene.

    "Bring out the prisoner."

    Turning his back, Jiang Taiping''s voice was a coldsh.

    <em>WOOSH! </em>The Arbiters parted and formed a clear path.

    At the end of the corridor stood Liu Chaochao, tall and stern, clutching a disheveled woman by the nape of her neck, dragging her forth to be disyed before the gathered masses.

    Liu Chaochao''s face was taut, his eyes quivering and teeth clenched; he refused to look at the woman in his grip.

    <em>THUD! </em>He pushed Liu Mumu down, forcing her to kneel before the crowd!

    "Commander Liu..."

    The people of Sky Soaring City felt a piercing sympathy, staring at this woman who hung her head, her face ghostly pale, resembling nothing so much as a walking corpse.

    "Release her!"

    A few scattered voices cried out, not very loudly.

    "Ladies and gentlemen!" Jiang Taiping''s grave expressionmanded silence with a voice that boomed like divine thunder, forcing all eyes upon him.

    He then turned to Liu Mumu, shaking his head. "I was but two days at the Thunder Department, and never imagined that Sky Soaring City could breed such a catastrophe! Liu Mumu, tell everyone, how did you fabricate such chilling lies to frame your brother and father?"

    "Lies..."

    The crowd was stunned, their minds fogged by the depth of his booming voice.

    "No, Commander Liu speaks the truth!"

    Eyes widened, the crowd watched the woman kneeling submissively, their hearts brimming with pity.

    "I, I..."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Amidst the darkness and shing lights, Liu Mumu raised her head, her gaze scrambled, tongue trembling, lips deathly pale, tears streaking her cheeks.

    "Commander Liu, don''t be afraid, hundreds of thousands of us are behind you!" a voice heatedly shouted from the crowd.

    "Yes!"

    "Don''t fear them!"

    Noise surged once more, every person''s blood boiling with fervor.

    "Everyone..." Liu Mumu''s gaze was soul-shattering, her voice hollow like deadwood, her lips and tongue seemingly no longer her own.

    Deep within her throat, dark red vermin gnawed at her flesh, feasting on her blood.

    In a fit of spasms, she clutched at her throat, eyes showing the agony she endured. Amidst her struggles, a cry of despair escaped her lips.

    "I, was, wrong..."

    With these words, tears cascaded from her bloodshot eyes.

    "Wrong?"

    The people of Sky Soaring City looked like they''d been struck by lightning, their shouts halting abruptly, some staring at her in bewilderment.

    Liu Mumu covered her throat, her voice trembling with sorrow as she bowed her head slowly. "I''m sorry to everyone, Lu An is dead¡ªit was my father and brother who killed him. In revenge, I fabricated lies about the mortal realm..."

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The crowd erupted, eyes wide, staring dumbfounded at her.

    "That can''t be right! The evidence in the Projection Orb was irrefutable..." someone murmured in disbelief.

    "Think, you fools!" Madame Lu scoffed coldly, "That was an experimental exercise by the Thunder Department in the mortal realm, aimed at aiding beings in transcending tribtions. It was limited to a few mortal realms. Liu Mumu chanced upon some of these recordings and manipted them, cutting and skewing the truth. A tale spun from a single image, a story fabricated entirely¡ªonly fools heated in their minds, like you, would be exploited by her, used as pawns!"

    "Uh..." The crowd looked at each other, caught in a web of confusion.

    "I''m sorry! I''m sorry!" Liu Mumu trembled, as if frozen in an icy cave. She bowed deeply, her forehead touching the cold ground, her voice numb as she repeated those words.

    At this moment, a different sentiment finally emerged.

    "I''ve always said, how could such sins as devouring the life spans of beings for cultivation flourish among the high officials of the Celestial Court?"

    "Exactly! It''s absurd!"

    "Aren''t they afraid of divine retribution?"

    "Exactly, Liu Mumu really thought she could fool everyone!"

    "Look at you all, just a moment ago, angry and easily led by the nose like monkeys!"

    "Ridiculous! Laughable! A foolish farce!"

    "Judgment for those who deserve it, execution for those who warrant it, let''s disperse. Don''t waste my time for cultivation, don''t waste emotions!"

    Various condemnations erupted amidst the crowd.

    Before the Skyruler Immortal Manor, the faces of the gathered beings, a mix of sympathy and disdain, were vividly disyed.

    Witnessing this scene, Jiang Taiping, Madame Lu, Lord Zhao, and Lord Chen couldn''t help but curl the corners of their mouths slightly.

    Liu Zongyu''s face remained impassive.

    Liu Chaochao''s throat bobbed, his fists clenched tightly.

    Facing the scrutinizing eyes of the multitude, his body, initially slightly bent forward, slowly straightened, his chest puffed out. The devout to the deceased, billions of mortal beings, had now a solid foundation of belief...

    "You''re wrong, you idiots¡­ it''s a conspiracy¡­!!"

    A matter in dispute never settled into consensus.

    Disputes often devolved into shouting matches between factions, where people only harbored hatred for those with differing opinions, losing any sympathy for the victims of the incident itself.

    And so, Jiang Taiping knew this was the moment to strike while the iron was hot.

    His expression solemn, his face illuminated by a divine aura!

    He looked towards Liu Mumu kneeling in submission and dered in a voice of grand authority. "Liu Mumu has confessed her crimes voluntarily. ording to thews of heaven, she is guilty of spreading falsehoods and defiling the natural order. By the mandate I hold, I decree that she be executed forthwith in public, to serve as a warning to others!"

    With that, Jiang Taiping waved his handmandingly, booming, "Liu Chaochao, fetch the Skyruler Evil-ying de yourself. In righteousness, exterminate kinship, cleanse the Celestial Court of all wickedness, and protect our supreme heavenly way!"

    "Yes..." Liu Chaochao trembled, nodding subconsciously.

    All eyes turned to him.

    "Yes!" Liu Chaochao bellowed, his expression wild as he dashed into the Skyruler Immortal Manor to retrieve the executioner''s de.

    The siblings had grown up under this very de.

    Over the years, they had witnessed countless evils perish by its edge.

    Liu Mumu, in those days, could never have imagined that a day woulde when her once revered brother would, before hundreds of thousands, sever her head with the very de she had revered for vanquishing evil!

    The mor of the crowd. The massacre of the mortal realm. The overwhelming control of those in power¡­

    As a pitiable sacrifice, Liu Mumu''s struggles under the dark canopy stirred no waves. She knelt, her forehead pressed against the cold ground, her tears moistening the earth.

    It turned out, under this dark canopy, amidst their madness and fierce grimaces, she and Lu An were no different.

    "Fetch the de!"

    With a thunderous roar, Liu Chaochao held aloft a tinum greatsword with a handle shaped like the head of the mythical beast Suan Ni, striding out of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, a figure of righteousness and light.

    In contrast to him, his sister kneeling before the crowd seemed like a mere speck of dirt floating on water, scorned by thousands.

    "Execute, execute!"

    As the Skyruler Evil-ying de was unsheathed, some were bewildered, others cheered.

    The cheers fully drowned out the calls for her release... People never liked to seek the truth; they only relished unleashing their nature!

    <em>THUD! </em>Liu Chaochao stood behind his sister, the Skyruler Evil-ying de resting on the ground, its weight causing the earth itself to tremble as if divine authority had descended.

    His hands grasped the handle adorned with the mythical beast''s head.

    This handle had once been the object of his dreams!

    To wield this de was to be the foremost authority of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, the Judicial Immortal of Sky Soaring City!

    He had seeded! He was his father''s sessor! From now on, he was thew in Sky Soaring City! His throat burned; he couldn''t speak.

    "Morning and evening, Chaochao and Mumu¡­ But only the <em>morning</em> shines forever, reigning supreme through the ages!" Liu Chaochao''s eyes reddened.

    He bowed his head, gazing at his sister groveling on the ground, pitiful like a beast, and rage burst forth from his chest.

    "Liu Mumu, you are cruel. For the sake of an outsider, you would doom our father''s and my future; you wish us dead!

    "Today, I take up the Skyruler Evil-ying de for the first time to execute you! When you reach the underworld, do not me me; all of this is your own doing. You''re no longer a child; you must be responsible for your naivety and foolishness!

    "You and Lu An are the same, mereughable specks in the world!

    "Now let me tell you, as an Immortal, one must be fearless. All things are under mymand; when one attains enlightenment, countless perish. This is the true way of the Immortal!"

    He didn''t voice these words. These thoughts burned inside him like a fierce ze. This fire scorched his eyes, his hands, and ignited the Skyruler Evil-ying de!

    "Carry out the execution!!" Liu Zongyu suddenly roared, veins bulging on his neck.

 Chapter 586: Dont Be Afraid

    Chapter 586: Don''t Be Afraid

    ¡°Execute her!¡±

    A crowd jeered and cheered, their faces breaking into grins as they shouted aloud.

    The earthly cacophony, like a thousand swords forging a storm, swept over Liu Mumu¡¯s face and body, leaving her bloodied and battered.

    Behind her, the radiant glow and fierce mes of the Skyruler Evil-ying de shone like a sun in the darkness, scorching her with unbearable pain.

    Amidst the brilliance, Liu Chaochao held the sword high with both hands, his eyes burning like torches.

    ¡°Lu An¡­¡± Liu Mumu gasped for air, tears blurring her vision. In this world of torment, akin to a drowning soul, she struggled and called out the name that haunted her dreams.

    <em>Lu An, Lu An¡­ I aming. Do not go far. Wait for me¡­ </em>In her despair, it seemed she saw him.

    He stood in a faint light, d in Arbiter armor, scratching his head with a naive smile, clearly in love yet too shy to speak, silently waiting¡­

    ¡°Lu An!¡± Suddenly, she lifted her head with all her might, as if she truly saw him!

    At the edge of the crowd, atop a distant high building¡ª

    There stood a silhouette!

    In that direction, blood mist and ck smoke mingled, as if hosting a devil incarnate!

    ¡°Lu An¡­¡± Her eyes, through the gaps in her disheveled hair, stared fixedly in that direction, her fingernails digging into the earth and stone, drawing blood.

    Blood mixed with mud, a meld of red and ck.

    ¡°Liu Mumu!¡±

    Behind her, amanding roar suddenly thundered.

    Liu Chaochao took a swig of golden liquor and sprayed it onto the Skyruler Evil-ying de, the fiery gaze searing her neck.

    Like before, when he received the offerings of incense, he felt no ounce of remorse. His resolve was unwavering! His eyes, fiery and determined, now saw his own glorious path!

    "Sin must be purged, the heavensmand it!" Liu Chaochao roared, his entire being channeling celestial power into the Skyruler Evil-ying de. The tinum sword arced through the air, zing a trail of radiant light before cleaving downwards!

    Under this de''s edge, Liu Mumu¡¯s neck was as fragile as paper!

    The de¡¯s force stirred the wind, striking awe across the crowd!

    Every spectator''s eyes widened, breath held, awaiting the decisive moment!

    With this strike, all would be settled!

    As Liu Chaochao swung his sword, a weight lifted from him. His face rxed, and for a fleeting instant, a smile appeared.

    But just then, in this instant of impending death, he saw Liu Mumu showing no fear, instead lifting her head high, her eyes passionately fixed on something distant!

    What was there?

    Liu Chaochao paused, ncing up unconsciously in the middle of his strike.

    Blood? Darkness?

    A piercing screech tore through the air, violently bursting in Liu Chaochao''s ears!

    The mix of ck and blood suddenly expanded before his eyes, transforming into a ferocious sword light that instantly pierced through space, rushing towards Liu Chaochao!

    ¡°What¡­¡±

    In the blink of an eye, the bloody, ck sword light, like a bloodthirsty beast, struck him squarely in the forehead!

    With a crash, Liu Chaochao¡¯s head exploded.

    The shattered skull turned into a mist of blood, showering over the face of his n elder behind him.

    <em>KLANK! </em>Liu Chaochao¡¯s headless body still managed to bring down the Skyruler Evil-ying de!

    The de deviated by three inches, striking the ground and carving a trench 30 meters long right in front of Liu Mumu!

    <em>THUD! </em>His headless corpse dropped beside Liu Mumu, blood pouring from the severed neck. He was no more.

    "Uh..." Liu Mumu went numb all over, copsing to the ground as she gazed at her brother with a pallid face, her breathing ragged.

    In that instant, life and death had switched ces.

    <em>Who¡­? </em>She couldn¡¯t catch up with her own thoughts, her mind a nk as she stared dumbly in that direction.

    "Who! Who! WHO DARES!?" Liu Zongyu¡¯s heart tore apart at the scene, his face wrinkled like dried wood, his blood rushing to his head, turning his eyes blood-red!

    Only then did people realize what had happened!

    "Liu Chaochao is dead!"

    "Someone has disrupted the execution..."

    Hearts raced wildly.

    This was a city of the Celestial Court!

    Who would dare cause such chaos here?

    Jiang Taiping, Lord Zhao, Lord Chen, and Madame Lu were shocked by the unexpected turn, their smirks frozen into astonishment! Their eyes emitted a killing intent, scanning towards the direction from which the assant hade!

    <em>CRASH! </em>A figure fell from the sky,nding next to Liu Mumu.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The ground shattered, sending cracks vibrating towards the Skyruler Immortal Manor¡¯s inscription-covered gate, toppling it to the ground!

    "This is..."

    Everyone stared intensely at the neer. Unseen until seen, once seen, their spirit trembled with fear!

    Enveloped in ck smoke and blood mist was the figure. In his hand was a sword, ck and crimson, with blood swirling and ck mist fierce!

    He had eyes of deep red and blood-red hair, his body covered in dense blood veins, connecting him and his sword as one! His skin had even turned pitch ck, ominously dark and chilling.

    Such a ferocious and violent figure hardly seemed human.

    "A devil?" Madame Lu gasped, eximing, "A devil in the Celestial Court, a mere fugitive, dares to cause chaos?"

    No one recognized the figure! Yet, the brutal and murderous aura exuding from him was enough to make one''s skin crawl.

    "Liu Mumu, you consort with this devil? Speak his name at once; perhaps it could lighten your punishment!" Madame Lu coldly said.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The dark figure in the crowd suddenly looked up, his blood-red eyes fiercely locking onto Madame Lu.

    "What, you wish to kill me too?" Madame Lu scoffed, quietly retreating behind Jiang Taiping and Liu Zongyu.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A towering mist of blood and ck smoke erupted from the devil, his blood-red veins glowing ominously. His sword burst forth with a destructive power of sheer brutality!

    <em>WOOSH! </em>In that instant, endless devilish energy swirled around him, rushing towards the officials of Sky Soaring City.

    "How powerful!"

    This devil gave them an utterly strange sensation. He didn''t seem very strong at a nce, but the sword in his hand was terrifyingly dreadful!

    <em>BOOM! </em>He charged with brutal force!

    Liu Zongyu''s eyes split with fury as he met the assault!

    <em>WOOSH! </em>Suddenly, with his sword, the devil ripped through space, appearing right before Madame Lu.

    "What is this thing?" Madame Lu fell into an abyss of fear, her eyes wide with terror.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>The devil''s sword, emitting ck smoke and blood mist, pierced her mouth in a sh!

    "GAGH!!!" Madame Lu screamed, her throat torn, her mouth ripped open several times its size, her face covered in blood.

    The devil grasped her neck with one hand, withdrawing the sword.

    "Please, no..." Madame Lu''s eyes bulged, her face ashen, her body convulsing in utmost terror.

    Up close, the face she saw, shrouded in ck mist and covered in blood veins, though ck and bloody... still felt hauntingly familiar.

    "Lu..." Her scream cut abruptly into a shriek.

    With a squelch, the devil gripped her throat and mmed her against the doorpost, his sword piercing through her eye.

    The tip of the sword pierced right through the post!

    "Uh..." Madame Lu''s body went limp, her arms drooping, as ck blood gushed from her mouth.

    <em>SQUELCH! </em>The devil pierced her other eye.

    The body of Madame Lu shuddered, her eyes charred as coal pits, blood and tears mingling within. Together with her mouth, the three orifices bled in unison.

    With a thump, the devil let go, and she slid down like a ragdoll, crumpling at his feet.

    This scene, in front of Skyruler Immortal Manor, made everyone gasp in horror!

    People backed away, ncing at the devil, and then at Liu Mumu.

    "Liu Commander, how did youe to know such a fierce devil?"

    "He hasmitted murder; you all are doomed!"

    Those who had jeered now cursed.

    Suddenly, the devil flung his Flying Sword!

    <em>SPLAT SPLAT SPLAT! </em>The ck and crimson bloodied sword streaked like a line of blood, instantly skewering thousands!

    Thousands of mouths burst open!

    Thousands of heads were punctured from behind!

    Thousands fell, their eyes bulging, legs kicking, bodies stiffening in death!

    "Who else wants to die?" The devil''s voice was raspy, low but enough to chill the bones of the countless onlookers.

    With a roar, the spectators finally broke, scrambling away in terror, screaming as they fled.

    Though they still watched from a distance, at least there was peace now!

    "Enough of this spectacle, wouldn''t you say?" Jiang Taiping''s expression was cold, his gaze deadly as he looked at the shadow, thenmanded those beside him, "Seize him!"

    Thousands of Arbiters dispersed, forming an encirclement.

    They weren''t the main force!

    Given this man''s brutal killings and shocking lethality, Liu Zongyu, Lord Zhao, Lord Chen, and three other Rank 6 Heavenly Officers all stepped forward.

    They were the future leaders of Sky Soaring City!

    Among them, Liu Zongyu''s desire for vengeance burned fiercest. His son, who had just been promoted to Rank 6 was in!

    The six Heavenly Officers, with theirmanding presence, represented the strongest force of Sky Soaring City!

    They stood at six points,pletely blocking off the devil and Liu Mumu.

    "You¡­" Liu Mumu looked at the unparalleled devil protecting her, then back at the ck, blood-filled sockets of Madame Lu''s eyes.

    Unknowingly, her tears flowed again. Perhaps she had never cried so much in her life. But she knew... it was worth it.

    Facing the encirclement of Jiang Taiping and the other five, the figure with blood-red eyes lowered his head, giving her a nce. Only then was his gaze gentle. He spoke softly, his voice raspy, "Don''t be afraid, I''ll take you away."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 587: Sword Devil, Kill Without Mercy!

    Chapter 587: Sword Devil, Kill Without Mercy!

    "Lu Yao..." Liu Mumu''s voice quivered as she called out the name, her eyes brimming with hot tears.

    She knew it had to be the young man in white. Even now, as his hair and eyes bled red, his veins pulsated visibly through skin dark as charred wood... she could still recognize him. He was no devil; he was human.

    The color of one''s eyes might change, but the look in them stayed the same forever. It was a gaze filled with rage, a loathing for evil so intense it seemed to write itself across his features in words of greed, wrath, and foolishness.

    "How did you be like this?" Liu Mumu whispered, her face a mask of bewilderment.

    The voice that answered was eerie, like a chilling specter. "My sword became devilified, feeding on the malice of mankind."

    The Sword Devil Bloodline! That profound Sword Intent gifted to Yun Xiao by the Cosmic Sword Immortal had morphed into a devil, merging with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    When Yun Xiao formed the Sword Prison, the Sword Devil Bloodline absorbed a portion of the power from the Thunder Immortal Formation, linking the two together.

    Now, returning to find this scene, rage overwhelmed him. The killing intent of the Sword Devil Bloodline took hold, causing a monstrous transformation in Yun Xiao''s bloodline, turning him into the fierce devil he now appeared to be.

    With the activation of the Sword Devil Bloodline, the previously contained power of the Thunder Immortal Formation erupted, enhancing his sword''s killing power in a brief surge akin to Heaven Burial devouring a Sword Heart.Both the Sword Heart and the Sword Devil were fleeting explosions of power from the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, but they differed in one aspect.

    Sword Hearts were consumed once used. But the Sword Devil Bloodline, born of evil''s very root, thrived inbat, drawing in the malevolent thoughts of all beings like a greedy beast, growing ever more brutal and vicious as the battle raged.

    The greater the malice from all beings, the crazier the Sword Devil became!

    This madness, which fed and erupted in a spree of carnage, was bound to have side effects, perhaps even damaging the body... But upon seeing Liu Mumu amidst this chaos, what room was there for reason?

    All of Sky Soaring City was now a vortex of evil thoughts. Under the darkened skies, every murderous intent, every suspicion, every sneer converged into a swirling mass of ck smoke and blood mist, rushing towards the sword in Yun Xiao''s hand.

    Evil thoughtsy at the heart of it all. Fear, hatred, and cold-bloodedness¡­ all were parts of this malignant essence.

    Not everyone harbored malice, but the deceptive whispers of the Truth Gu only needed to sway a tenth of the popce. Their sinister intentions were more than enough!

    In the eyes of the Immortals and Arbiters, Yun Xiao''s visage, twisted and malevolent, epitomized sheer evil. His savage methods starkly contrasted with the supposed righteousness of his assants.

    The lines between justice and wickedness were so clearly drawn. How could people not harbor evil thoughts and thus strengthen his evil devouring sword?

    Only a moment paused, and then, nearly simultaneously, thousands of Immortals and Arbitersunched a ferocious assault!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils shimmered brilliantly as they bombarded him, their des and techniques conjuring the forces of wind, fire, clouds, and thunder¡ªnot just against Yun Xiao but Liu Mumu too!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    In that instant, Yun Xiao was undeniably one man against the world.

    Liu Mumu, who had been on the brink of despair, suddenly struggled to her feet!

    She knew she had to at least try to protect herself with all her might, to honor Yun Xiao''s long journey back to save her.

    "How could he possibly withstand the attack of a city''s worth of Immortals and Arbiters?" Liu Mumu¡¯s heart pounded as she looked toward Yun Xiao.

    The surrounding onught nearly sealed off all their paths to survival!

    The youth, now a Sword Devil, was enveloped in ck smoke and blood mist, his evil thoughts soaring wildly. The cries and howls from his dark red longsword, in harmony with the tempest of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, were dreadfully sinister!

    The best defense was offense!

    ughter the owners, and the magic treasures, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils would fall apart!

    In Yun Xiao''s crimson eyes was that very resolve.

    "You see me as a dead man, but I see you all the same!"

    With those chilling words, Yun Xiaounched his devil sword through the mists, the dark crimson Flying Sword weaving through the air like a fish darting through the night, exploding in session, creating countless ripples in space as if skipping stones across a pond.

    <em>Ten-Step Scale, Immortalize!</em>

    "Shall I use the skills of livestock to y you Immortals, how about that?" Amidst the swirling ck smoke and blood mist, Yun Xiao sneered coldly, his gaze filled with disdain and malevolent intent.

    <em>POP! POP! POP! </em>The Flying Sword in the air burst 1,000 times in an instant, sending out 10,000 ripples.

    It was the Ten-Step Scale that Yun Xiao had learned back in the Azure Spirit Sword Sect. Except it resounded over 10,000 times, merging with the profound mysteries of the Immortal Sword Dao, turning the cosmos into a watery surface!

    With one strike, the space around him twisted into spirals!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>As the magic treasures collided in the distorted space, they failed to suppress Yun Xiao.

    Flying Swords whistled past him, none managing to scratch Yun Xiao, not in the least. The Life Sigils that blotted out the sun never even came within ten steps of him or Liu Mumu!

    With a single stroke, he startled everyone.

    "What?" Lord Chen Mai, a Sword Immortal like his deceased son Chen Yu, was stunned by the heaven-defying power of this Flying Sword.

    It wasn''t just the power of the sword that was terrifying¡ªit was the peak of craftsmanship!

    This was no mere swordy; it was a dance with the cosmos itself!

    In that heart-stopping moment for Chen Mai, a deadly strike descended!

    "Sever!" He roared, spinning around to sh furiously.

    The dark crimson Flying Sword from Yun Xiao seemed slow enough to strike true in his eyes.

    But like a darting fish, the Flying Sword suddenly spiraled around Chen Mai''s Palm Sword, slipping into his underarm!

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>Chen Mai''s body shuddered, hisplexion turned ghastly pale!

    <em>CRASH! </em>His body burst open with thousands of bloody holes, exploding into a mess of flesh, disintegrating on the spot.

    A dignified Rank 6 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court was dead in an instant!

    In his dying moments, his eyes disyed utter bewilderment, his voice trembling, "What is this..."

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Xiao executed a 10,000-Step Scale, blocking all attacks and seizing the chance to y Chen Mai!

    Onlookers and attackers alike quivered inwardly!

    How had he be so formidable?

    Yun Xiao could thank their malevolent thoughts and the Thunder Immortal Formation!

    The earlier benefits hadid a foundation.

    As the onlookers and would-be killers shuddered once more in fright, Yun Xiao fiercely grasped the blood-soaked crimson sword. Like a ghostly apparition, he surged forth wrapped in endless ck smoke and blood mist, colliding violently with several Rank 6 Celestial Court officials!

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>Electric serpents exploded from his sword, morphing into tens of thousands of crimson electric birds that swooped down on Lord Zhao, the father of Zhao Danming.

    Under the assault of the sky-blotting flock, Lord Zhao was devoured in an instant, leaving nothing but bare bones.

    "The path of immortality is but to kill and devour!"

    With each kill, each devouring, whether it was a Seed of Creation, Sword Soul, Life Sigil, or True Immortal Jades, the Creator Immortal grew stronger.

    This time, Yun Xiao unleashed himselfpletely in a frenzied killing spree.

    The brutal demise of two Rank 6 Heavenly Officers was enough to terrify the assants, spawning more malicious thoughts that swirled around, pushing Yun Xiao into an even more savage frenzy.

    "Bring it on!" His eyes blood-red, his face twisted grotesquely, the veins on his body ringly visible.

    After ughtering Lord Zhao, Yun Xiao whirled around just in time to see Liu Mumu exposed once more to numerous des!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>With a fiercemand of his Sovereign Sword, he reached back, pulling Liu Mumu onto the sword with him.

    "Lu Yao!" Liu Mumu clung to him frantically, nearly flung off in the chaos.

    "Let''s go, I''ll take you on a killing spree!" Yun Xiao was like a crazed devil, hisugh ghastly and brutal. With Liu Mumu in tow, he steered the Sovereign Sword like a warhorse, charging towards Liu Zongyu''s position!

    "My father..." As his daughter, Liu Mumu''s heart trembled, regardless of her hatred for him at that moment.

    But Yun Xiao did not tremble! He was more resolute than anyone!

    The six-foot Sovereign Sword moved unpredictably, evading thousands of strikes in an instant, under a cloak of ck smoke and blood mist¡ªa multitude of ghostly shadows!

    <em>Leisurely Wander!</em>

    This was one of Yun Xiao''s earliest learned sword techniques, originally mundane, but under his peak craftsmanship, it was nothing less than a technique of Immortals!

    He was not just flying over Sky Soaring City; he was darting between spaces, his ck and crimson Sovereign Sword smashing through dozens of Arbiters like a battalion charging into battle, rushing up to Liu Zongyu!

    Liu Zongyu harbored extreme malice, but seeing Lord Zhao and Lord Chen fall one after the other, he also grew anxious.

    Now, this fierce devil came soaring on a Sovereign Sword, with his daughter by his side?

    Who was he really?

    When Liu Zongyu saw Liu Mumu¡¯s hands sping around the waist of the dark fiend, a thought surged into his mind.

    ¡°Lu An? Impossible, impossible!¡± He roared, leading a few direct descendants in a desperate defensive formation.

    ¡°Stop these two heavenly malefactors!¡± As Liu Zongyu uttered these words, his heart had already turned cold.

    Because the few descendants before him were shattered by the brutal Sovereign Sword!

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>The six-foot Sovereign Sword, like a mighty mountain, crushed everything in its path, leaving a trail of corpses, carrying his daughter right up to him!

    In that instant, the eyes of Liu Zongyu and Liu Mumu met.

    ¡°My daughter¡­¡± His eyes welled up with tears as he remembered everything from her birth to the present.

    In Liu Mumu¡¯s eyes too, there was struggle andplexity.

    Within thatplexity, her guilt and regret towards Lu An morphed into an indelible hatred for her father.

    ¡°It¡¯s over!¡± Liu Zongyu sighed.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ck and crimson six-foot Sovereign Sword shattered his protective armor, bursting through his chest, and flung him hundreds of meters, stringing him and other Arbiters together into a gruesome kabob!

    Blood sttered everywhere!

    ¡°Ah¡­¡± Liu Zongyu coughed up blood in great gushes, his eyes dim and fearful, looking at Yun Xiao, and at his daughter.

    ¡°What merciless cruelty!¡± He pointed usingly at Yun Xiao, then breathed hisst, dying in a pool of blood.

    Yun Xiao barely spared him a nce!

    He had gone mad with killing; his world was filled with nothing but ferocity and brutality. To him, the entire world was blood-red, such was the sword intent left by the great Celestial Immortal!

    Leaving Liu Mumu behind, he wielded his sword of ughter, plunging into the crowd of Arbiters. Flying Sword, Palm Sword, Sovereign Sword¡ªhe switched between them in an instant, ughtering all six Rank 6 Heavenly Officers in Sky Soaring City!

    Wherever he went, the Arbiters daring to encircle him were already dead by the thousands.

    The entrance of the Skyruler Immortal Manor had be a bloody hell...

 Chapter 588: Sword Descending From the Heavens!

    Chapter 588: Sword Descending From the Heavens!

    However, the ughter was far from over!

    As the death toll rose, the crowd''s anger subsided into fear and disgust. These emotions swirled around Yun Xiao like a tidal wave, making his eyes darken and bleed!

    "Run!"

    "This monster is terrifying."

    "Liu Mumu must be a devil, otherwise, how could she have such a brutal helper?"

    "The cmity of Sky Soaring City! The cmity of Sky Soaring City!"

    Those who had been puzzled about the affairs of the mortal realm now began to waver too.

    Their eyes, fixed on Yun Xiao at this moment, were filled with terror!

    This fiend was too savage!"Arbiter Lu, tell me, who else is your enemy?!" Yun Xiao roared in a low voice, his ughter unrelenting, unstoppable. His eyes were a churning sea of blood, his body threaded with bloody strands, his sword haunted by countless spirits!

    Hissing sounds filled the air!

    Under his will and malevolent thoughts, the blood on the ground surged up, rushing in one direction!

    Yun Xiao suddenly raised his blood-streaked head!

    Before him, 3,000 Arbiters huddled together, forming a defensive array, and behind it, an elder with an ashen face wasmanding everyone!

    It was Jiang Taiping, the governor of Sky Soaring City!

    "We''ll trap him until reinforcements from other cities and the Thunder Department arrive!"

    "This man hasmitted a first-ss serious offense against the Celestial Court! Don''t panic, he is doomed to die!" Jiang Taiping bellowed.

    Deeply strategic, even now, with such massive losses, his heart remained somewhat calm¡ªat least he himself was alive.

    He guessed that the adversary''s goal was to take Liu Mumu. As long as he did not interfere, he should be safe!

    For many years, he had remained behind the scenes, preserving peace and surviving till now.

    However, just as he finished speaking, the fiendishly violent devil didn''t take Liu Mumu with him. Instead, like a streak of blood, he hesitated not a moment before charging at Jiang Taiping!

    "Damn!" Seeing this, Jiang Taiping was at a loss! If he wanted to survive in the Thunder Department, facing such a ferocious incident, he certainly couldn''t flee.

    And so, he soared amidst the 3,000 Arbiter formation!

    His presence, like a pearl in the night, finally roused the people of Sky Soaring City, igniting a glimmer of hope!

    "This devil must be vanquished!"

    Roars erupted one after another.

    "Hmph!" Jiang Taiping suddenly stretched forth his hands.

    In his right hand, a Life Sigil condensed, swirling with five worlds akin to real oceans¡ªthese were Rune Prisons, miniature worlds each formed from 10,000 Runes!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A mere Sea Calming Sigil now seemed like five oceans, pressing down upon the skies of Sky Soaring City, the misty vapor exerting a crushing weight upon all!

    Jiang Taiping possessed five Rune Prisons, revealing his true cultivation¡ªa few realms above even the Divine Self Realm, far stronger than Yun Xiao in his normal form!

    However, Yun Xiao, in his Sword Devil state, grew more brutal with each kill. With malice surging, his lethal force was boundless and defied conventional wisdom.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Following the Sea Calming Sigil, Jiang Taiping¡¯s other hand now held the most famous celestial weapon of Sky Soaring City!

    All eyes were upon him!

    It was a needle, blue in the middle and ck at both ends. It seemed incredibly small, but its appearance stilled even the five nearby oceans!

    This was the top-grade Boundary Defining Divine Needle!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Under Jiang Taiping''s chilling control, the needle transformed into a towering pir, grasped by the elder!

    "A Needle to Calm the Sea!" Jiang Taipingbined the Sea Calming Sigil and the Boundary Defining Divine Needle. As the weight of the five Runes Prisons pressed upon the needle, its weight surged dramatically!

    Holding the needle, Jiang Taiping stood at the center of the 3,000 Arbiters, like a Sea God descending, his divine might surpassing that of many other city governors!

    "With the needle here, the sea calms, the devil''s cmity shall disperse!" Jiang Taiping''s roar echoed through the night sky of Sky Soaring City, uplifting the spirits of countless people.

    "Vanquish!"

    The roars thundered through heaven and earth.

    The louder their cries rang, the redder Yun Xiao''s eyes became!

    When he glimpsed the Boundary Defining Divine Needle, all the hatred in his heart erupted!

    The myriad worlds where he belonged was on the verge of being obliterated!

    Arbiter Lu An had met an unjust death!

    Liu Mumu sought only to spread the truth, yet she faced disgrace and a fatal end!

    Yun Xiao had ascended to the Celestial Court, only to be boiled in a soup!

    How many hopeful ascenders had their souls shattered in the Ascension Pool?

    Yet, here in the Celestial Court, revelry echoed daily!

    Yun Xiao wondered bitterly, "Why?"

    The Boundary Defining Divine Needle unleashed the wild fury in Yun Xiao''s heart. This rage, mixed with his devilish killing intent, drove his desires of greed, wrath, and foolishness to the brink!

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!" Yun Xiao roared and shrieked, charging forward! His three-foot-long sword gathered countless malicious thoughts.

    At this moment, his lethality was several times stronger than before!

    Such a fiend was enough to strike terror into the hearts of the 3,000 Arbiters! But they would have to clench their teeth and brace themselves, controlled by Jiang Taiping.

    "Hear mymand, attack!" Jiang Taiping, hidden within the defensive array, dered majestically, his voice still dripping with disdain for the doomed.

    "Fool! How dare you try to defy the heavens? You''re nothing but duckweed in the wind!!" Jiang Taiping sneered.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Haha!" Yun Xiaoughed menacingly, his eyes a stormy sea of blood. "There are no true heavens in this world, but if there were, I¡¯d pierce through them."

    Amidst his sinisterughter, Yun Xiao suddenly conjured masses of ck smoke and blood mist, soaring to the clouds above Jiang Taiping and the 3,000 Arbiters!

    "What is he nning to do..." Liu Mumu stood atop a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood, her heart taut.

    "Is he finally about to flee?" Jiang Taiping and the 3,000 Arbiters sneered.

    Amid the attention of the masses, the youth wrapped in ck smoke and blood mist suddenly looked down and coldly said, "Ever seen a sword technique that descends from the heavens?"

    Jiang Taiping flinched, his aged face twitching.

    Suddenly, above in the sky, the world fell into a deadly silence.

    The youth, his hair and eyes as dark as blood, suddenly raised his longsword and thrust it towards the heavens.

    "Oh thunder of the Celestial Court, heed my call, converge!"

    With a deafening crack, the sword pierced the sky.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Centered on this strike, a dense mass of ck and crimson lightning snakes furiously gathered, the sound of millions of electrical explosions thundering through the air.

    <em>CRACKLE! CRACKLE! CRACKLE! </em>In a mere moment, the full power of the Sword Soul was unleashed!

    Within the swirling ck smoke and blood mist, Yun Xiao¡¯s blood-streaked hair and eyes gradually faded, reced by a defiant power that attracted the dark thunder of the heavens, creating brilliant shes upon this devilish de!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>In an instant, a vortex of ck and crimson lightning,rge enough to epass half of Sky Soaring City, gathered above the Skyruler Immortal Manor. It resembled a miniature version of the Thunder Immortal Formation, and also had a fierce devilish face, brutally ring down at everything below!

    <em>ROAR! </em>This devilish face opened its bloody maw, unleashing a roar that shook the entire city!

    Jiang Taiping''s face turned pale, and he called out to his allies, "Hold together!"

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>He waved the Boundary Defining Divine Needle, the five Rune Prisons propped up, forming a shield of ancient oceans above, while the celestial weapons, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils of the 3,000 Arbiters also moved in unison, striking towards the heavens!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao waspletely engulfed by the ck and crimson lightning snakes!

    His sword was the center of this thunderous vortex!

    Amidst the storm, Yun Xiao fixed his gaze below, his voice thundering, "In early spring, thunder roars, rain scatters, awakening the earth, bringing prosperity to the crops!"

    Spring thunder! The awakening! This was normally a beautiful scene in the mortal world, signifying rebirth, and so it was the Sword of Life!

    Yet, under Yun Xiao¡¯s transformation, this sword bore only wrath, ferocity, and a fatalistic courage, a resolve to destroy before rebuilding!

    This sword came from the Celestial Court!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>After reciting those words, Yun Xiao swept up a tempest of dark lightning snakes, descending from the heavens like a thunderstorm, obliterating everything in its path!

    Jiang Taiping felt the terror of that final, decisive strike and lifted his head in horror.

    "Ascend the Heavens, Awakening of the Spring!"

    The Awakening of the Spring, the first move of this celestial sword technique, indeed struck like a spring thunder from the heavens!

    But... how could it be this thunder of destruction!

    The same, yet not the same!

    In that moment, Jiang Taiping shuddered to his core, his eyes fixed on Yun Xiao''s figure, remembering a youth he had once revered!

    He had acquired the Su Family''s Misty Rebirth technique and used it immediately!

    So, changing the Ascend the Heavens technique was not difficult for him, was it? Jiang Taiping''s heart skipped a beat, the Boundary Defining Divine Needle in his hand trembling. Amidst the storm, he shouted to the heavens, "You are Lu Yao!!"

    However, his shout was swallowed by a thunderp, unheard by anyone!

    Within the burst of ck and crimson lightning, the youth''s eyes wept blood, his aura murderous!

    "Jiang Taiping, starting with you, every celestial being in the Great Dao Celestial Realm who hasmitted atrocities, no matter their station, shall not live!!"

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A sword descended from the sky, unleashing a storm of blood and thunder like a monstrous beast striking down, crashing into the fiveyered Rune Prison. The brutal, ferocious lightning transformed into a sky of sword energy, spreading destruction everywhere!

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! </em>Under the onught of this surging lightning sword light, the defense of the 3,000 Arbiters instantly copsed, their bodies shredded into blood powder, exploding at the gates of the Skyruler Immortal Manor!

    "Lu..." Under this massacre, Jiang Taiping was seized by boundless fear. As he stared up, the Boundary Defining Divine Needle was knocked out of his grasp, and the heavenly sword descended, stabbing directly into his crown!

    <em>SPUTTER! </em>The sword pierced from his head down, the tip emerging from his tailbone, forcing him to kneel down with a thud, the sword''s tip stabbing into the bluestone pavement!

    And so, the sword reced Jiang Taiping¡¯s spine, forcing him to kneel upright!

    "GUUUGH¡­!" In agonizing pain, Jiang Taiping¡¯s vision blurred. He struggled to open his eyes, and a youth floated down and stood before him, holding the Boundary Defining Divine Needle.

    That youth, atst, smiled.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 589: Devil and Savior

    Chapter 589: Devil and Savior

    In Sky Soaring City, the blood-storm wrought by Yun Xiao''s final strike dissipated with a thunderous crash!

    As that sword descended from the heavens, a hush fell over the city so profound, it seemed as though the very air had been sucked away.

    "Uh..." People found their tongues coiled up in their mouths, uncontroble, tangled.

    In their bloodshot eyes was etched an indelible image¡ªan elder of celestial bearing knelt at the steps of the Skyruler Immortal Manor, his head pierced by the hilt of a sword, its de running through him and into the ground beneath.

    Around himy a macabre tableau of the bodies of Arbiters and Heavenly Officers¡ªa ghastly collection of the city''s most powerful and wealthy.

    One after another, they met grisly ends.

    "Ah! Ah! Ah!"

    For a moment, no one could fathom what it all meant.

    Their eyes trembled violently as they looked beside the corpse of Governor Jiang!There, enveloped in a mist of blood and dark smoke, stood a young man with blood-soaked hair and eyes, holding the sword''s hilt protruding from Jiang Taiping''s head, his face bearing a child-like grin of pure joy.

    <em>KLANG! </em>He withdrew the Sword Soul!

    Jiang''s body shuddered, still upright, but his head slowly drooped, blood streaming down his forehead.

    "Refreshing..." The killer chuckled, his scarlet eyes suddenly sweeping over the crowd.

    A wave of terror rippled through them, their legs heavy as lead, scrambling backwards.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "You are still unsure of what the truth is.

    "No matter.

    "Cause and effect will have their reckoning, and one day, you will understand who the devil is, and who the savior."

    Yun Xiao watched their fearful retreat, his gaze filled with unshakeable conviction.

    He suddenly raised his sword!

    Just as the crowd thought he would unleash a massacre, darkness overtook Yun Xiao. All the violence and ferocity drained from him as if struck by a severe illness. His legs wobbled.

    <em>THUD! </em>He fell backward onto the ground, his head striking the earth with a solid sound.

    "Lu Yao, what''s be of you..." Liu Mumu''s mind was numb. She watched in shock as the young man ughtered, her eyes wide with horror, until he fell to the ground. Only then did she rush forward, frantically kneeling beside him.

    "Cough, cough." Yun Xiao coughed violently, suddenly opened his eyes, and grabbed Liu Mumu''s shoulders. "Gather their Bags of Holding, then use a sword vessel to take me away, quickly!"

    As soon as he finished speaking, his eyelids fluttered, his limbs went limp, and he fainted again.

    "Alright, alright!" Liu Mumu, tears mingling withughter, couldn''t help but think, even at a time like this, he was concerned about the Bags of Holding. If this wasn''t Lu Yao, who else could it be?

    Clearly, the dark devilish aura was fading from him; his eyes and hair were turning ck, his skin pale. It wouldn''t be long before everyone could recognize him as Lu Yao!

    And now, among the living, she was probably the only one who knew this devil''s identity.

    She had to move fast!

    In Sky Soaring City, the strong were either dead or fled; no one was left to hinder Liu Mumu.

    With her mind set on escape, Liu Mumu disregarded her appearance, searching the bodies of Governor Jiang and the various Rank 6 and 7 Heavenly Officers. She took every intact Bag of Holding, not even sparing her father Liu Zongyu''s.

    The sword vessels were docked right at the entrance of the Skyruler Immortal Manor.

    Ignoring the strange and disappointed looks, Liu Mumu summoned arge sword vessel that could hold ten people, picked up Yun Xiao, and they both entered the vessel.

    The moment she activated the sword vessel, she looked out at the city, tears once again falling.

    "Leaving now, I might never have the chance to return in this lifetime."

    This was where she had grown up.

    Her rtives, her beloved, everything had been beautiful here. But the harsh realities of the mortal realm and the ruthless pride of power had destroyed it all.

    From the day Lu An died, there was no turning back.

    "And Miss Yu..." Liu Mumu started the sword vessel, whizzing past the crowd towards the new home she and Lu An had prepared.

    "Sky Soaring City." As the vessel soared into the dark sky, she gazed down at the bloody chaos below, lost in her thoughts.

    The youth beside her had reverted to his original appearance.

    He was ethereally handsome, a sight incongruous with the carnage he had wrought upon the ruling ss of Sky Soaring City that night, leaving a blood-drenched lesson for the city.

    "Goodbye." She closed her eyes, refusing to look any longer at this ce of despair.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "It hurts!" Yun Xiao hadn''t actually passed out; his senses remained acutely clear.

    At this moment, lying motionless, there wasn''t a part of his body that didn''t throb with pain¡ªeven his hair hurt!

    Not just pain, but real injuries were sustained, especially the Nine Heavens Star Meridians, which felt as though they were tearing apart after interfacing with the Sword Devil Bloodline.

    "Fortunately, the killing replenished some of the Seeds of Creation."

    His body managed not to bepletely destroyed by the violent power of the Sword Devil.

    Of course, the Sword Soul of the Heaven Burial Sword wasn''t faring much better. After its violent release, the dark blood streaks on the azure lotus looked diminished and would likely need time to recover and reabsorb power before it could be used again.

    In truth, Yun Xiao could have opted for the help of Blue Star or Red Moon to save the day, but there was no choice; the Sword Devil was linked to his heart and, in a rage, even he couldn''t control it.

    The little dark beast was primarily for bottom-line defense and protection, but honestly, when it came to a massacre, the Sword Devil was brutally effective.

    "Next time I can use it, who knows when that''ll be. Still, it''s better to have fewer moments of such blinding rage."

    After all, he''d also hurt himself in the process.

    Yun Xiao wasn''t sure if the injuries would affect his chances in tomorrow''s Thunder Department selection.

    "It''s time to think of the future."

    As the sword vessel left Sky Soaring City, Yun Xiao''s spirits calmed down, awakening inside the vessel.

    The spaciousness of therge sword vessel was sufficient, with ten seats, allowing him, Liu Mumu, and Miss Yu to fitfortably without crowding.

    "Mother..." Upon waking, Yun Xiao''s first gaze was towards the anxious, distraught woman beside him.

    "Lil Yao!" Miss Yu quickly grasped his hand, tears darkening her eyes, her voice quivering, "Are you alright?"

    "Don''t cry, I''mpletely fine, really well," Yun Xiao reassured her quickly.

    He knew that Miss Yu must have learned of Lu An''s death by now.

    She would have to know sooner orter.

    Yun Xiao could only do his best to ease her pain. "Mother, did Master tell you? I avenged you¡ªI drove my sword through that wicked woman''s eyes!"

    "She did," Miss Yu replied, tears in her eyes as she shook her head. "As long as you''re safe, that''s all that matters."

    For a moment, Yun Xiao didn''t know what to say.

    "Did he... Did he suffer in his passing?" Miss Yu suddenly asked, her voice trembling.

    Yun Xiao felt as if a bitter fruit were lodged in his throat.

    "No, he didn''t suffer. He died still hopeful. If he knows what I''ve done today from beneath the Nine Springs, he would rest easy," Yun Xiao assured her deeply.

    "That''s good to hear..." Miss Yu murmured, lowering her head in tears.

    "Mother, from today onwards, no more tears. Whether it''s him or me, we both want you to be happy," Yun Xiao said.

    "Alright, I promise you both," Miss Yu hastily wiped her tears and forced a smile.

    "I''ll find a way to heal your eyes, so you can see me with your own eyes," Yun Xiao promised.

    "But after all you''ve done in Sky Soaring City, can you still remain in the Celestial Court?" Miss Yu asked with concern.

    Yun Xiao nced at Liu Mumu and replied, "I can stay, but you and Master will have to leave."

    "Where to?" Liu Mumu had sensed this moment woulde and asked softly.

    "To the world where my older brother died," Yun Xiao said, looking at the Boundary Defining Divine Needle in the corner. "The Pale Blue Dot Mortal Realm is crumbling. Please ask Master to return with the Boundary Defining Divine Needle and use it to stabilize the world and save mortal lives."

    "I..." Liu Mumu looked at him worriedly. "That''s no problem, but... are you sure you won''te with us and instead stay in the Celestial Court? A mass killing of Celestial Court officials like what happened in Sky Soaring City will surely lead to an investigation, and it''lle back to you soon."

    "It''s not a matter of if but when." Yun Xiao shook his head. "If I also return to the mortal realm, it would only draw more attention there."

    "So what will you do?" Liu Mumu asked.

    "I''ll race against time! No matter what I''ve done, as long as I rise high enough, quickly enough, no one can touch me," Yun Xiao dered, his eyes zing with conviction.

    "The Thunder Department selection?" Liu Mumu inquired.

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Do you really believe...?" Liu Mumu couldn''t fathom how a young Rank 9 Arbiter could hold his own against the strong Immortals of the Thunder Department.

    "The more selfish and greedy they are, the more confident I am!" Yun Xiao said coldly, then smiled reassuringly at them. "Don''t worry, I cannot be killed. As long as I live, no one can defeat me."

    Seeing such intense determination in the young man, both Liu Mumu and Miss Yu felt a measure of peace settle in their hearts.

    "Alright, then we''ll wait for your good news," Liu Mumu said.

    "I''ve set your course. Once you reach the Pale Blue Dot Mortal Realm, someone will meet you there," Yun Xiao told her.

    "Who?" Liu Mumu asked.

    "Another me," Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    After saying this, he organized the spoils of battle he had collected that day, handing a portion to Liu Mumu. "These are for the other me."

    "Body double?" Liu Mumu ventured a guess.

    "Right."

    She had always known this young man held endless secrets, and now, hearing this, her hope intensified.

    "Fine! You go make your mark, and I''ll handle things behind the scenes," Liu Mumu dered.

    "Alright." Yun Xiao nodded with a smile.

    Therge sword vessel they were on also carried three smaller, single-person sword vessels, designed to facilitate the movements of Arbiters.

    Without further ado, Yun Xiao entered one of the smaller sword vessels.

    <em>CLICK! </em>Therge and small sword vessels separated; therge one headed towards the Pale Blue Dot Mortal Realm, while the smaller one made for the Thunder Department.

    "Lu Yao!"

    As Yun Xiao was departing, Liu Mumu called out to him.

    "Master, what is it?" Yun Xiao looked back from within the smaller sword vessel.

    Liu Mumu''s voice choked up as she shouted, "You''re not a murderous devil; you''re a great savior who saves the world!"

    Yun Xiao paused, taken aback. Then, he smiled and shook his head, saying, "I hope so..."

 Chapter 590: Solve the Case Within a Day!

    Chapter 590: Solve the Case Within a Day!

    Back in the Thunder Department, the heat was unbearable, both in the sky and on the ground.

    The Thunder Immortal Formation pressed low, oppressively low.

    Thunderbolts, like serpents of lightning, surged through the air, scattering sparks that twisted the very fabric of space with their intense heat.

    News of the massacre in Sky Soaring City spread through the sacrednd of the Thunder Department at a terrifying speed, shocking and enraging countless Immortals!

    In the central part of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, nestled among the mountains, there was a quaint courtyard.

    The courtyard bloomed with celestial flora, filling the air with an intoxicating fragrance, akin to a dreamlike utopia.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>A youth d in tinum armor descended from the heavens,nding with a heavy thud.

    His eyes zed with fury, and his breathing wasbored. Before him stood a resplendent pce, adorned with a que inscribed with the words Pleasing Pavilion.

    Everyone knew that this pavilion was the private courtyard of the Thunder Department''s enchantress, Cao Shuo. Typically, only she entered and left its confines.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om"Lu Yao?"

    The doors of the pavilion opened, and Thunder Emissary Cao emerged, d in a split violet gown that shimmered with a luminous glow. Her slightly curled hair mischievously draped over her cleavage, with pure white droplets sliding down the strands, enhancing the crystalline rity of her skin.

    She had clearly just bathed in celestial blossoms, her body radiating warmth and an intense fragrance, like a ripe peach exuding steamy white mist.

    "Thunder Emissary Cao." Yun Xiao''s eyes burned fiercely, his voice hoarse andden with aggressive intent!

    He strode towards Thunder Emissary Cao, quickening his pace, and along the way, he pulled a small ck beast from his bosom, hurling it urately into the crevice between two white rock formations!

    "What are you doing?" Thunder Emissary Cao, seeing this young man behaving like a wild beast, was momentarily stunned, frozen in the doorway.

    In that instant, Yun Xiao collided with her, pushing her to the ground!

    <em>RIP! </em>Fragments of violet fabric, mingled with floral scents, flew wildly through the air.

    <em>SLAM! </em>The doors of the Pleasing Pavilion mmed shut with a resounding crash!

    It was just before dawn, the sky still shrouded in darkness.

    In the faint glow from the door, the shadows of tworge whitenterns appeared!

    They shifted and transformed, glowing with a pure white luminescence!

    The high-pitched, fierce sounds of battle were deafening from the very start, echoing through the entire sea of flowers.

    The wild tumult did not cease for a moment...

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, within a solemn hall surrounded by thunderous light, the roar of thunder was overwhelming!

    At this moment, the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department were gathered!

    Each of these top-tier officials, all at least Rank 4, radiated with thunderous light, their auras vast as a sea of storms!

    Naturally, their expressions were equally grim and determined!

    The entire hall seemed to be at the heart of an explosive thunderstorm!

    ¡°Reporting to the two Generals, except for Cao Shuo, all Rank 4 and above Heavenly Officers of the Thunder Department are present!¡± Cao Sheng stood to the side, bowing slightly as he reported to the two Immortals seated at the highest point of the hall.

    The elder Immortal on the left was the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General, the highest-ranking of all Thunder Dukes.

    To his right sat an elegant, gentle middle-aged man with silver hair cascading to his waist, each strand entwined with serpents of lightning.

    This man was the other Rank 2 Heavenly Officer of the Thunder Department, the Eight Directions Cloud Thunder General!

    His name was Yun Yin!

    The Nine Heavens Thunder Supreme General, on the other hand, was named Gu Zhenxiao.

    Both of these Rank 2 generals were of the same rank as Ster Margraves, among the highest officials in the Celestial Court!

    Ordinarily, if it were not for an absolute emergency, these two generals would never appear simultaneously.

    ¡°No need to wait for Cao Shuo. Proceed with the matters at hand.¡±

    The Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General, Gu Zhenxiao, had electric serpents flickering across his face, his eyes cold and stern.

    ¡°Yes.¡± The assembled Immortals nodded.

    Gu Zhenxiao scanned the room and said, ¡°Have you all heard of the massacre in Sky Soaring City?¡±

    The crowd nodded.

    Gu Zhenxiao frowned, his voice hoarse, ¡°Since I joined the Thunder Department, such a brutal event has never urred in the Celestial Court. The culprit is audacious, challenging our entire Thunder Department. If we fail to solve this case and capture the murderer, we will be theughingstock of the Celestial Court. The Nine Thunders Sovereign is furious and demands that we solve this case within a day!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    The 100 Immortals of the Thunder Department bowed their heads, their gazes equally icy.

    Now was certainly not the time for internal strife.

    The massacre in Sky Soaring City shook the entire Thunder Department to its core. If the case remained unsolved, none among them could hold their heads high.

    Within the Celestial Court, the Thunder Department was the enforcer ofw and order. To y a governor of a city under their jurisdiction was akin to striking the very heart of authority.

    "The details of the Sky Soaring City case have been sent to all of you. The city is now sealed off, and the culprit escaped on a sword vessel. The Thunder Department has dispatched 30,000 Arbiters to hunt the criminal... Beyond this, anyone with ideas, speak now," Gu Zhenxiao said in a somber tone.

    "Generals," Lightning Lord Bo Hong cupped his hands in salute. He nced at Cao Sheng before speaking, "The deceased are Jiang Taiping and other Heavenly Officers of Sky Soaring City. The rescued individual is Liu Mumu. I believe General Cao''s adopted son, Lu Yao, is highly suspect. He is Liu Mumu¡¯s disciple. Although this young man''s power alone shouldn''t be sufficient for such ughter, he harbors many peculiarities. There¡¯s a possibility he could have briefly attained overwhelmingbat strength. I suggest immediate capture and harsh interrogation. Even if he¡¯s not the perpetrator, he could well be an aplice."

    "General Cao," Gu Zhenxiao''s expression turned peculiar as he looked at the general, "what is your opinion on this?"

    Cao Sheng¡¯s face was grim. "As known, I recently took him as my adopted son. I know his talent, not his character. With such a grave case before us, I support the Thunder Department in using him as a lead for severe questioning."

    "Very well!" Gu Zhenxiao shot a cold nce at Cao Sheng.

    Earlier that night, Lu Yao had shattered the Sword Suppression Gate, disying terrifying swordsmanship talent. Later, he allegedly ughtered a city?

    Gu Zhenxiao had already ordered searches for the boy across the Thunder Department. With reason now, there was no need for subtlety. He promptly dered, "Deploy 10,000 Arbiters. Search the Thunder Department for Lu Yao!"

    Regardless of his involvement, he would be detained.

    "Does anyone have other insights?" Gu Zhenxiao scanned the room.

    "I do," the Eight Directions Cloud Thunder General Yun Yin spoke in a soft voice.

    Gu Zhenxiao looked at him calmly.

    "During the day, a rumor spread that Lu Yao had an encounter with the Seventh Princess in Sky Soaring City. I investigated and found that the source of this rumor was a girl named Gu Sutao. Moreover, Gu Sutao appeared in the Projection Orbs spread through Sky Soaring City," Yun Yin said.

    Below, Gu Suwan was startled and said, "That girl is hiding something."

    Yun Yin nodded and said, "First, we need to capture her for interrogation. We must understand everything about her time in the mortal realm. The Sky Soaring City incident involves the Celestial Court''s incense offerings and cannot tolerate any mistakes."

    "I''ll go capture her." Gu Suwan stood up, a sense of righteous indignation in her demeanor.

    At that moment, someone came in to report, "Reporting to the two Generals, there have been sounds ofmotion from Thunder Emissary Cao''s private residence. Lu Yao might be inside."

    Gu Zhenxiao stood up and said to Yun Yin, "You interrogate Gu Sutao. I''ll go catch this little fly."

    Yun Yin nodded.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The 100 Immortals of the Thunder Department immediately split into two groups. One followed Gu Zhenxiao out, while the other remained behind.

    As he stepped out of the hall, Gu Zhenxiao nced at the sky.

    "In half an hour, the sixth round of the Thunder Department selection shouldmence," he said.

    Cao Sheng bowed his head and said, "Supreme General, if Lu Yao has been with Cao Shuo all this time, he might not be involved in the Sky Soaring City incident."

    Gu Zhenxiao shrugged and said, "Whether he''s involved or not doesn''t matter. I just need a reason to catch him."

    With that, he shot a re at Cao Sheng.

    "You couldn''t even catch a Rank 9 Arbiter!"

    "It''s mainly because of my sister''s interference. In broad daylight, I couldn''t act," Cao Sheng said, bowing his head.

    "Cao Shuo has grown increasingly arrogant under my protection. It''s time for a whipping." The Supreme General gave a cold smile and, with a group of Thunder Department Immortals, flew off into the sky!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 591: Fierce Struggle Through Dawn!

    Chapter 591: Fierce Struggle Through Dawn!

    After Gu Zhenxiao departed, Gu Suwan ushered Gu Sutao into the solemn hall.

    Gu Sutao''s pretty face was a shade paler. Looking up, she saw that at least half of the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department were present, their cold gazes fixed upon her.

    The pressure on her was immense, like mountains and seas crushing down, leaving her breathless.

    "Gu... Gu Sutao, greets everyone." Pushed forward by Gu Suwan, the girl in the peach dress stumbled to her knees, her head bowed,rge beads of sweat dripping down.

    "Lift your head." The voice of General Yun Yin, soft as sticky clouds, eased the tension in Gu Sutao''s heart slightly.

    "Yes..." Gu Sutao slowly raised her head, her gaze filled with respect for the high-ranking celestial official seated above.

    "It was you who spread the word of Lu Yao''s dealings with the Seventh Princess in Sky Soaring City," Yun Yin said, looking down at Gu Sutao with a calm face, unreadable in emotion.

    His mysterious demeanor made Gu Sutao even more uncertain, forcing her to nod earnestly. "Yes, I did. The matter concerned the Seventh Princess, and I, a humble Immortal, dared not discuss it with others, only to share it in this manner to provide clues for her search."

    "You are not dull; you are clever, trying to trade information for favors," Yun Yin said lightly.Her scheme exposed, Gu Sutao''s heart quivered. She nced around at the other Immortals, including her aunt, who seemed somewhat indifferent. This only increased her panic.

    "Do not be nervous. Your parents might have left the Thunder Department, but they were once under mymand. Just exin the details honestly, and I will not make things difficult for you," Yun Yin assured.

    "Yes..." Gu Sutao nodded vigorously like a pecking chicken, then said earnestly, "I must report that General Cao''s adopted son, Lu Yao, is an impostor. I have seen his true self in the mortal realm!"

    "An impostor?"

    This news surprised the high officials of the Thunder Department.

    Only the Heavenly Officers of Sky Soaring City knew of Lu Yao''s background, but they had all perished.

    "Then tell us from the beginning about your encounter with him in the mortal realm," Yun Yin instructed.

    With reverence in her heart, Gu Sutao honestly recounted her experiences during her time tending to the sacred fire to meeting Yun Xiao and Lian Xi.

    Gu Sutao bit her lip, her voice trembling as she spoke, "I had two followers, and it was this fake Lu Yao who killed them. He surely stole a sword vessel and snuck into the Celestial Court, assuming a false identity. This information is absolutely true; if you doubt it, I am willing to lead the way to that mortal realm to verify it."

    After her ount, the hall fell into a profound silence.

    Among them, several Rank 4 Heavenly Officers exchanged nces, their eyes deep, pondering unknown thoughts.

    "Is that mortal realm the same one where they unearthed the Immortal Asylum, leading to the fall of thousands of top-tier Immortals?" someone asked softly.

    "A total of 17 Rank 2 Ster Margraves died there. Had this not been suppressed, it would have caused an uproar in the Celestial Court long ago."

    "Did Divine Dawn really visit that mortal realm before her demise?"

    The murmurs among the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department indicated that something unusually sinister was afoot; they wouldn''t whisper so in such a gathering without cause.

    Hearing this, Gu Suwan furrowed her brows and asked, "This involves the Seventh Princess. Should we not explore this mortal realm to ascertain the truth before reporting to the Divine Gateway?"

    Yun Yin replied, "The affairs of the Seventh Princess is not under the jurisdiction of the Thunder Department; I will handle it myself."

    "Yes." Gu Suwan nodded.

    After speaking, she kicked Gu Sutao''s foot, urging, "Think if there''s anything you''ve left out. Speak now."

    "Ah, yes!" Gu Sutao, spurred into action, quickly added, "I suspect this fake Lu Yao is connected to the Immortal Asylum! Isn''t every powerful being in the Celestial Court trying to find a way to open the Immortal Asylum? Perhaps he''s the key. We should capture him quickly!"

    "Oh? And why do you think so?" Yun Yin asked quietly.

    "Last time I saw him, he wasn''t even a True Immortal, and in just two or three days, hisbat power has soared to the peak of the Divine Self Realm. Who would believe such a terrifying leap without some major fortune? If he has such fortune, it likely came from the Immortal Asylum!" Gu Sutao said, a hint of envy in her voice.

    "You mean to say, when you met him in the mortal realm, he wasn''t even a True Immortal?" Gu Suwan asked in shock.

    When they first encountered Yun Xiao, he was already strong, and they had not realized the extent of his sudden rise.

    "Absolutely true!" Gu Sutao nodded earnestly. By now, she realized she could no longer keep this secret to herself; it was better toe clean.

    Hearing her confirmation, the faces of the high officials of the Thunder Department grew even more peculiar.

    Finally, they all turned to Yun Yin.

    "Alright, we understand. You may leave now," Yun Yin said after giving Gu Sutao a nce. "Remember, from today onwards, you must not speak of today''s matter with anyone else."

    "Yes..." Gu Sutao nodded obediently, then meekly added, "Does this count as a meritorious report? May I ask for a small reward?"

    Yun Yin finally cracked a smile and said, "Indeed, you have earned merit. Tell me, what would you like?"

    Gu Sutao pouted. "Last time I was tending the sacred fire, but the affair of the Immortal Asylum and Seventh Princess disrupted it. I just wish to apply to go to the mortal realm once more..."

    Clearly, her request was not excessive.

    "I will grant you permission to tend the sacred fire five times," Yun Yin decreed.

    Gu Sutao''s eyes lit up, and she quickly knelt in thanks. She had achieved her goal.

    From start to finish, she had never intended to seize the fortune from Yun Xiao, for she knew too many eyes were already upon it.

    She simply wanted to trade for something truly beneficial to herself!

    The sacred fire had bewitched her.

    "Dismissed," Yun Yin waved his hand.

    Gu Sutao, bubbling with excitement, thanked him repeatedly and bowed her way out.

    Once outside, she clenched her fist and beamed radiantly.

    After she departed, the solemn hall fell back into silence.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Yun Yin leaned back and closed his eyes, saying, "This matter involves the Immortal Asylum and Divine Dawn and has exceeded the authority of the Thunder Department. I will report it myself. You all must guard your tongues. I do not wish anyone beyond those present to know of this affair."

    "Understood!" The high officials nodded, well aware of their duty.

    "That mortal realm, now devoid of the Immortal Asylum, is but an empty shell; there is no need for further investigation. This Lu Yao is no ordinary person and should be handled by the Divine Gateway. Do not meddle," Yun Yin added.

    "Understood!" The high officials continued nodding.

    "And... the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General?" Gu Suwan asked softly.

    Yun Yin smiled at Gu Suwan but did not answer her question, instead saying, "The meeting is adjourned!"

    "Yes." The assembly, each with their own thoughts, silently dispersed.

    "..." Gu Suwan felt a heavier burden. She was gradually realizing that Lu Yao was not merely a talented Arbiter; he was also tangled in the secretive affairs of the Seventh Princess and Immortal Asylum.

    This was currently the most taboo topic in the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Compared to this deep secret, the massacre at Sky Soaring City was trivial.

    When a treasure shined too brightly, it would invite destruction upon itself. Anyone who coveted more than they should might well invite disaster.

    Jiang Taiping was the first to covet, yet he touched nothing and was already gone.

    Gu Suwan deeply shook her head. "The Supreme General has fallen to the devil''s lure; Old Cao and I must pull back from the brink."

    She could never have imagined that, in just one night, things would take such a drastic turn.

    With no other choice, she silently retreated from the hall.

    After she left, only General Yun Yin remained in the solemn hall.

    He had his eyes closed for a long time, but suddenly, he opened them and spoke to a shadow in the corner. "That little girl Sutao is too clever for her own good. She knows too much. Go and make sure she dies in the mortal realm."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Dawn was finally breaking. The dark canopy of night was nearly past, and in the sacrednd of the Thunder Department, a corner of the sky already zed with radiance.

    Light was spreading, sweeping across thend!

    As the yin faded and the yang was the strongest, everything was consumed by a zing heat.

    In the Pleasing Pavilion within the Floral Sea Pce, a fierce close-quarters battle that had raged for half the night was still in full swing.

    This rare encounter was more intense than anyone could have imagined!

    With evenly matched opponents, every strike was delivered with full force, each fighter intent on crushing the other''s spirit and will, forcingplete submission.

    And now, in the peak moment of the battle, undecided in victory or defeat, the sounds ofbat echoed out, shaking the surrounding flowers.

    It was a frenzied, desperate fight!

    Yun Xiao had never faced an opponent of such magnitude. Filled with frustration and indignation, as if he were back in Sky Soaring City, he fought like a madman!

    As dawn broke, signifying the turn from extremity to bnce, his rage surged. Seizing the advantage, he was about to deliver a fatal blow to Cao Shuo!

 Chapter 592: Moon Sword Goddess

    Chapter 592: Moon Sword Goddess

    As Yun Xiao and Cao Shuo were about to have their final exchange, a host of Thunder Emissaries descended from the sky like beams of divine light, arriving above the Floral Sea Pce.

    "Who is Cao Shuo shing with? That sound, there seems to be a hint of disadvantage."

    After Gu Zhenxiao arrived, he did not pause for a moment. With a press of his hand, the pce was smashed apart, all its eaves and stones pulverizing into dust.

    "The Supreme General has arrived, cease your actions!" Cao Sheng bellowed, his voice resonating in all directions.

    As his voice dispelled the dust, the scene revealed itself!

    On the shattered grounds of the pce, two pale figures were locked in a fierce battle, their struggle cracking the ground like a web. At this life-and-death moment, they were both at their peak, too engrossed to heed the neers.

    "Y-YOU TWO!!!!" At this sight, Cao Sheng felt a rush of blood to the heart, nearly spewing blood from his mouth.

    The other Thunder Emissaries, as if struck by lightning, floated like kites in the sky, their eyes wide as saucers.

    "Supreme General¡­" Sweat pouring, Cao Sheng twisted his stiff neck to look towards Gu Zhenxiao.The Supreme General''s eyes were bloodshot, his face seemingly aged years, his mouth slightly open, his teeth and tongue trembling...

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>His white hair exploded, with tinum lightning snaking through it, endless storm clouds gathering above.

    His rage was immense, perhaps only Cao Sheng could understand. But still, why did they not stop?

    Cao Sheng''s scalp numbed, unable to tolerate it any longer, he bellowed as if possessed, "Stop, don''t you two have any sense of decency!?"

    His shout, rather than calming, made thebatants tremble with shock!

    Yun Xiao, lost in the thrill of the fight, only realized then that others had arrived. He quickly withdrew from the fray, straightening his Arbiter armor and easing out of his battle fervor.

    The fight was over!

    Of course, Cao Shuo reacted quicker, her figure shrouded in violet lightning, had been at a disadvantage but not greatly exposed. Now d in her Arbiter armor, she was immediately protected.

    However, she was clearly exhausted, her face deeply flushed from exertion and she was panting heavily.

    Her legs seemed to be bruised; she couldn''t stand at all and had to sit on the ground, staring nkly at the Thunder Emissaries, her voice hoarse, "You... why are all of you here?"

    "Lu Yao greets all the Immortals," Yun Xiao said, shaking his foggy head, gradually regaining hisposure.

    Above, a deathly silence reigned!

    The high officials of the Thunder Department looked at them in disarray!

    The scandal that urred back at the Hall of Sword Suppression had spread, and everyone knew about the illicit affair of these two.

    Yet, none of them had expected that these two would be going at it like this!

    Those among the Thunder Emissaries who understood the Supreme General knew that their <em>struggle</em> had pierced his heart like a thousand swords!

    <em>What to do? </em>Cao Sheng took a deep breath, his gaze cold as he nced at Yun Xiao.

    He knew this youngster was truly doomed!

    He had thoroughly offended the Supreme General!

    Cao Sheng knew better than anyone; from Gu Zhenxiao''s rise to his current position as the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General, how many had perished beneath him.

    Yet, a lowly Rank 9 Arbiter like Yun Xiao dared to covet what belonged to him!

    Soon, the redness in the Supreme General¡¯s eyes suddenly vanished. His expression cold, he said calmly, "Lu Yao, a heinous crime urred in Sky Soaring City. Someone killed Jiang Taiping, a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court, along with dozens of other officials and thousands of Arbiters. You are the prime suspect. I, holding the mandate of the Thunder Department, hereby order you to be imprisoned in the Thunder Prison for severe retribution and to be brought to justice!"

    After speaking, the Supreme General nced at Cao Sheng. "This is your adopted son, you failed in your supervision, and you are also at fault, you arrest him!"

    "Yes!" Cao Sheng nodded, the venomous snakes by his ears hissing fiercely.

    Meanwhile, the two little snakes by Cao Shuo¡¯s ear were stuck in a crevice afar, turned into a ne and a belt by the little ck beast.

    "Lu Yao, you are defiant and repeatedly errant, it is time for your end," Cao Sheng said, his burly body descending like a thundering mountain, pressing down towards Yun Xiao.

    In his eyes, this youngster had filled his quota of enmity, and even if he was unrted to the Sky Soaring City massacre, his end was near.

    Yet, what Cao Sheng hadn¡¯t anticipated was that even at this moment, the youngster¡¯s face still wore a look of confusion. He earnestly said, "Father, you are wronging me, since returning from the Grand Firmament Academy, I¡¯ve been keeping Thunder Emissary Caopany all night, I haven¡¯t gone anywhere... Moreover, as a Rank 9 Arbiter, even if I were on a rampage, I couldn¡¯t possibly kill Governor Jiang, isn¡¯t this judgment absurd?"

    Cao Sheng sneered, "This alibi, you¡¯ve already used it at the Hall of Soaring Thunder, Cao Shuo is conspiring with you and is now also a suspect, she can¡¯t testify for you!"

    With that, he didn¡¯t wait for Yun Xiao to speak another word, he simply pressed down right in front of Yun Xiao!

    Yun Xiao, having fought two brutal battles in session, was utterly exhausted. Now facing a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer far more formidable than Jiang Taiping, he couldn¡¯t even resist a single finger from his opponent.

    With a sizzling sound, Cao Sheng stretched out his hand and a of electricity enveloped Yun Xiao, immobilizing himpletely, making it hard to even breathe.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes grew icy, the fatal suppression etched deep into his memory.

    ¡°Hey¡­¡± It wasn¡¯t until then that Cao Shuo, slightly recovered, spoke in a soft voice, "Big head Cao, what game is this? I''m a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court. You have no evidence, yet you use me based on mere conjecture. I want to ask you, since when is it a crime for two people to keep each otherpany in their own home?"

    ¡°Thunder Emissary Cao is right,¡± Yun Xiao agreed wholeheartedly, exerting himself to speak.

    ¡°Save your words for the Thunder Prison, Cao Shuo,¡± Cao Sheng responded coldly.

    To dissociate himself from his sister and adopted son, General Cao acted decisively, capturing Yun Xiao first, then moving to apprehend the weakened Cao Shuo.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Cao Shuo, her gaze chilling, suddenly said, "Cao Sheng, let me ask you, did the Supreme General fabricate a pretext to target Lu Yao out of jealousy for his swordsmanship, desiring to exchange his sword bone?"

    Cao Sheng was taken aback; she dared to say such a thing publicly? Did she have no wish to live? He couldn''t fathom what madness had overtaken his sister. Was it worth it, for a doomed ything? He could think of no reason for Cao Shuo¡¯s reckless behavior.

    ¡°You¡¯d better consider your words carefully, because every phrase you utter, my senior sister in the Immortal Sword Court can hear.¡± Cao Shuo slowly stood up, moved beside Yun Xiao, and stared intensely at Cao Sheng, her voice cold, "I¡¯ll give you a chance, let him go!"

    ¡°The Moon Sword Goddess?¡± Cao Sheng recalled her senior sister, his brow furrowing. ¡°Stop the nonsense, she doesn¡¯t have ears that catch the wind.¡±

    Just as his words fell, a sword light descended from the sky!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The silver sword light transformed into a woman cloaked in a robe of sword energy!

    Her presence was marked by a sword intent so terrifying it chilled the bone!

    Yun Xiao, peering through the electric, caught only a glimpse of the woman. She had hair silver as a cascading waterfall, her form enveloped in a voluminous robe of gleaming silver, her skin alight with the flow of sword light, appearing utterly radiant.

    This was Cao Shuo''s senior sister from the Immortal Sword Court.

    The Moon Sword Goddess!

    She held the rank of a proper Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, equivalent to a Ster Margrave and on par with Gu Zhenxiao!

    Atst, the Moon Sword Goddess had arrived!

    It was during the <em>struggle</em> with Cao Shuo that Yun Xiao informed her, ¡°Notify your people at the Immortal Sword Court to rescue me, or I¡¯m leaving right now.¡±

    In such a moment, how could Cao Shuo let him leave?

    She would pluck stars and the moon from the skies for him if needed.

    And now, upon her arrival, the Moon Sword Goddess nced at Yun Xiao.

    She had long known of this youth''s feat of causing the Sword Suppression Gate to form seven rings.

    Now seeing him, she noted his handsome, ethereal bearing, more reminiscent of a Sword Immortal than an Arbiter!

    The scramble for talents among the various departments of the Celestial Court was amon affair.

    ¡°Even if the True Martial Sword Immortal himself were here, he couldn¡¯t interfere with the Thunder Department¡¯s proceedings! Arrest them all!¡± Gu Zhenxiao dered coldly.

    But the Moon Sword Goddess, with a chilling tone, countered, ¡°Even the Thunder Department cannot touch my direct disciple without any evidence.¡±

    At this deration, even Cao Sheng was stunned.

    This was a challenge to the death against the Supreme General!

    "Have youe to snatch people right from under the Thunder Department?" Gu Zhenxiao''s eyes shed with thunderous fury, fixating on the Moon Sword Goddess.

    "A sword talent defying heaven, if the Thunder Department doesn''t want him, I do," the Moon Sword Goddess said calmly.

    The air turned dead silent!

    Lightning and sword intent shed at this very spot.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao smiled and spoke to Cao Sheng, who was close at hand, "Father, would you mind opening the? It¡¯s interfering with my initiation as a disciple."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 593: Severing Relationships!

    Chapter 593: Severing Rtionships!

    Cao Sheng was a bit lost for words.

    The boy in tinum armor before him, born of lowly status and yet possessing astonishing talent with the sword, was but a child¡ªone he could crush with a single hand. How could he still afford to smile under the fierce suppression of 100 high officials from the Thunder Department?

    Yun Xiao had to be mad!

    And truth be told, Cao Sheng had considered crushing him outright several times. But he never followed through. Because the Moon Sword Goddess was watching him coldly from the side.

    With the swiftness of a Sword Immortal, Cao Sheng knew that if he dared to make a move on Yun Xiao, the Moon Sword Goddess dared to strike!

    As a Rank 2 Sword Immortal of the Celestial Court, when the Moon Sword Goddess dered her intent to take a disciple, even Cao Sheng could not interfere.

    "In the end, we don''t actually have any cause or evidence to seize this kid," Cao Sheng brooded internally.

    The Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General could seize almost anyone without root or reason. Yet, he could not forcibly abduct a disciple of the Moon Sword Goddess.

    Otherwise, if there really was evidence, not even the Moon Sword Goddess could protect Yun Xiao.At heart, most of the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department still didn''t quite believe that the Sky Soaring City massacre was truly connected to Yun Xiao.

    "No, wait!"

    Just as Cao Sheng was about to release him, a thought struck him, his eyes burning into Yun Xiao. "The Moon Sword Goddess appeared too timely. This boy has clearly erred and sought urgent help from Cao Shuo."

    If he could think of this, so could the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General.

    With that, the incident at Sky Soaring City seemed increasingly likely to involve this boy!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    With this thought, Cao Sheng felt his world turn upside down.

    "A nobody of low birth, involved in murder and theft within my Thunder Department, using his talents and charm to navigate among the great officials of the Celestial Court, and yet he remains untouchable?"

    What a preposterous situation!

    Cao Sheng red at the boy who smiled back at him!

    Yun Xiao''s crimes were practically stered on his face.

    Cao Sheng¡¯s heart burned fiercely with the urge to crush him. Yet, he couldn¡¯t, leaving him beside himself with rage! How dare this young man, a criminal with no background, be so brazen?

    "Supreme General..." Cao Sheng, biting back his fury, turned to Gu Zhenxiao. He was rational enough to know that the one who should be truly enraged was not himself, but the Supreme General whose anger nearly bled his heart.

    Gu Zhenxiao, with an icy gaze, nced at the Moon Sword Goddess and Cao Shuo¡ªboth women of unmatched beauty¡ªand then at Yun Xiao. Then, he suddenly smiled.

    "Such exceptional talent in swordsmanship, no wonder the Moon Sword Goddess favors him," Gu Zhenxiao remarked, then gestured dismissively at Cao Sheng, saying, "Release him."

    Those simple words deted the wrath of the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department, leaving them sullen, speechless, and miserable.

    The Immortal Sword Court, a unique entity within the Celestial Court, often acted as aw enforcer as well, guiding the direction of the Sword Immortals, and frequently shing with the Thunder Department over interests.

    Hearing this, Cao Sheng cast a deep look at Cao Shuo. He knew that the Supreme General''s retreat would inevitably lead to aplete falling out between them; they would be sworn enemies.

    A mere Rank 4 Thunder Emissary had personally invited the Immortal Sword Court to snatch away an unprecedented genius from them! There was no way she would be allowed to remain in the Thunder Department!

    Cao Sheng, his face cold, retracted his hand, and the electric around Yun Xiao returned to his palm.

    With that, Yun Xiao was freed. He stretched his limbs and neck, bowing to Cao Sheng, "Thank you, father, for restoring my innocence."

    "Enough." Cao Sheng shook his head at him. "A celestial talent cannot serve two masters. Since you''ve chosen the Immortal Sword Court, from now on, our father-son rtionship is severed. Furthermore, never act under the identity of the Cao Family again. I wish you luck in your future."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao pursed his lips. "That¡¯s too bad, General Cao."

    That sarcastic remark nearly made Cao Sheng tear him apart.

    It was so infuriating! Just moments ago, Yun Xiao had called him father, and now he switched to General Cao... It sounded like the boy was climbing higher and kicking Cao Sheng to the curb!

    "This is perfect, now that we''re no longer niece and nephew, we can date freely without anyone gossiping," Cao Shuo said softly, her face flushed.

    "Cao Shuo, let me help you with that even more. I, Cao Sheng, am no longer your brother from this moment. Whether you rise or fall, live or die, it has nothing to do with me," Cao Sheng said calmly, his voice deep.

    He took this opportunity topletely sever ties with these two crazed individuals.

    In his eyes, Yun Xiao was arrogant, tyrannical, and cruel... This newfound son was already driving him mad; he deserved death long ago!

    The only thing he couldn¡¯t understand was why Cao Shuo, who was no fool, would jeopardize herself for his sake, pushing herself to the point where the Thunder Department would reject her.

    What benefit did she gain from this? Or was it simply because she couldn''t endure Gu Zhenxiao¡¯s unspoken rules and would rather destroy herself?

    By this point, Cao Sheng had grown weary of caring about her. A clean cut, and it was done! He had no desire to ruin his own prospects for the sake of his sister. He knew that these two women could indeed protect Yun Xiao.

    When Gu Zhenxiao let go of his rage, it actually signaled that he would be colder and more ferocious in the times toe.

    "Moon Sword Goddess." The old man with wings of tinum thunder at his back, before departing, suddenly asked in a low voice, "Do you protect this young man as a representative of the Immortal Sword Court, or on behalf of the Western Kunlun Pce?"

    "Does it concern you?" the Moon Sword Goddess replied coldly.

    Gu Zhenxiao managed a dry chuckle. "I''m just wondering whether the Immortal Sword Court or the Western Kunlun Pce would agree with your actions."

    After saying this, Gu Zhenxiao paused, then turned his gaze back to Cao Shuo, whose face was radiant and blooming like a flower after the rain. He added, "Under the Empress Dowager''s rule, the women of the Western Kunlun Pce, not to be outdone by men, all possess divine celestial grace!"

    Cao Shuo, hearing this, smiled charmingly, looping her arm through Yun Xiao¡¯s, and cooed, "That¡¯s sweet of you to say. I¡¯ll thank you on behalf of my sisters. I still hold a position in the Thunder Department, so please don¡¯t target me, Supreme General. If the sisters get upset, women¡¯s quarrels can be quite a headache, right?"

    "Fair point," Gu Zhenxiao acknowledged with a resigned smile.

    Cao Sheng¡¯s face grew even colder, and inside, he was full of regret. Had he known that Cao Shuo would be so arrogant after returning from the Western Kunlun Pce, he would never have sent his sister there in the first ce.

    Now, it was toote for regrets.

    "The hierarchy is weak, the hens crow at dawn, letting these women carry on, the Celestial Court will eventually be doomed!" Cao Sheng dared only mutter these words in his heart. To voice them would be a capital offense.

    He knew this was the real reason for Gu Zhenxiao¡¯s wariness today.

    Cao Shuo had merely gone to the Western Kunlun Pce for further training, but the Moon Sword Goddess represented not only the Immortal Sword Court but was also a favorite in the eyes of the Empress Dowager. Although Gu Zhenxiao held significant power in the Thunder Department, he dared not provoke her.

    And so, nearly half of the high officials of the Thunder Department came with great momentum to capture a powerless, unimportant youth, yet they had to leave in defeat.

    News of the affair would strain belief if it spread.

    Gu Zhenxiao leapt into the sky, leaving the dignitaries of the Thunder Department looking quite embarrassed.

    "Supreme General..." Cao Sheng hastened to attend him, afraid the Supreme General would vent his wrath on him.

    "It''s actually a blessing," Gu Zhenxiao suddenly scoffed.

    "Please enlighten me, Supreme General," Cao Sheng replied earnestly.

    Gu Zhenxiao turned to look at him, speaking solemnly, "I''ll concede, the boy''s talent is tempting, but his nature is perverse, secretive; he''s violent and a troublemaker. From the moment you took him as your foster son, your troubles have been endless... The Moon Sword Goddess will soon understand your agony."

    "Thisd truly is a born reprobate, using his talent and cunning to run amok,pletely ignorant of the wisdom in keeping a low profile. Whoever shelters him will indeed suffer," Cao Sheng remarked coolly.

    "Fortunately, you severed this father-son rtionship in time. If this boy and his backers cause any upheavals, they won''t reach you or me," Gu Zhenxiao said.

    "Are you certain that the Sky Soaring City case rtes to this boy?" Cao Sheng asked.

    "If the Moon Sword Goddess hadn''t shown up, it would mean there''s no connection. Her presence means the boy is definitely implicated," Gu Zhenxiao dered sternly.

    "What''s our next move? The Nine Thunders Sovereign demands the case be solved in a day," Cao Sheng furrowed his brow.

    "First, we need to rify the whole story of Lu Yao''s feud with Jiang Taiping; we must have evidence to act. If this boy is caught red-handed, not even the Moon Sword Goddess can withdraw. Once she realizes, like you did, that this boy only brings disaster, if she pulls back, a hundred lives wouldn''t be enough for him," Gu Zhenxiao spoke, his eyes zing with thunderous intent, showing the depth of his murderous resolve toward the boy.

    "Then, his sword bone will be yours, Supreme General," Cao Sheng said gravely.

    "We''ll see!" With those words, Gu Zhenxiao turned and soared away.

    It was only a matter of time. He could wait.

 Chapter 594: Ice Cold Sword Goddess and Thunder Department Seductress!

    Chapter 594: Ice Cold Sword Goddess and Thunder Department Seductress!

    Back in the Floral Sea Pce, Yun Xiao''s smile faded, reced by a respectful and solemn demeanor as he gazed at the woman before him¡ªa Sword Immortal.

    Her silver hair cascaded down to her waist like a glowing waterfall, and her silvery sword robe, painted with mountain and river motifs, exuded an aura of cool aloofness and lofty solitude, radiating a sacred purity that brooked no vition.

    A white veil obscured her face, shrouded in mystery, yet the contours of a stunningly beautiful oval face were discernible. Her bright silver eyes gleamed like moonlight, casting moonbeams wherever theynded.

    Such was this female Sword Immortal, her presence starkly contrasting with the captivating charm of the Thunder Department''s seductress beside her¡ªtwo extremes within arm''s reach.

    The former untouchable, thetter demanding Yun Xiao''s continued bold advances.

    The intery of cold istion and spicy allure made for a visually unforgettable experience.

    The Moon Sword Goddess!

    Yun Xiao had no idea whom Cao Shuo could summon; he was merely testing the waters.

    Logically, activating the seven electric rings of the Sword Suppression Gate, a show of talent rivaling a Celestial Emperor, should have brought forth someone of high stature!The arrival of the Moon Sword Goddess did not disappoint Yun Xiao. Faced with this new <em>patron</em>, Yun Xiao dared not take liberties, his expression grave as he bowed, "Disciple Lu Yao, greets Master."

    "Tidy up, and return with me to the Immortal Sword Court," the Moon Sword Goddess''s voice was cool.

    Cao Shuo bristled at this, retorting, "Sister, must you be so hasty? We were just warming up to each other, and here you are, stealing love with a de¡¯s edge?"

    "He is my disciple," the Moon Sword Goddess replied tly, ncing at Cao Shuo.

    "Master," Yun Xiao pondered before saying, "There are four more rounds in the Thunder Department selection, all of which can be finished today. Having begun this challenge, I wish toplete it, to conclude my affairs with the Thunder Department."

    The Moon Sword Goddess seemed unrushed, responding, "Very well, then fight. Once you are done, send me a talisman."

    With that, she handed Yun Xiao several talismans.

    After distributing the talismans, the Moon Sword Goddess gave Yun Xiao a look and said, "Once you reach the Celestial Court, you will no longer be an Arbiter."

    Yun Xiao nodded. "Understood."

    "What if he wins the next four rounds and bes one of the nine chosen by the Thunder Department, rising directly to Rank 6?" Cao Shuo asked darkly, adding, "Such a rapid ascent from Rank 9 to 6 would be unheard of elsewhere."

    Yun Xiao scratched his head and spoke with humble honesty, "As of now, the chances are slim."

    "Indeed, in terms ofbat strength, you are far from the real contenders. Those folks boast true Rank 6 powers; some are even geniuses close to Jiang Taiping''s level. You''ve yet to face a genuine contender," Cao Shuo remarked.

    The strongest opponent Yun Xiao had defeated in the Nine Thunders Arena was Mo Ruoyu during the second round¡ªsomeone at the Perfect Divine Realm, on par with Liu Mumu.

    Yet even this level of prowess barely scratched the surface among the Thunder Department''s elites; advancing to the top 200 would be a tough climb!

    At the Grand Firmament Academy''s Azure Banquet, types like Bai Ling''er represented the top-tier prodigies of the Celestial Court... yet her hope was just to reach the Divine Gateway.

    Thepetition was fierce!

    "One must try to forge the spirit of the sword," Yun Xiao replied modestly.

    Setting aside his Sword Devil form, fighting in the public eye truly required careful, measured steps, and he wasn''t fully confident just yet.

    "Having such spirit is good enough," the Moon Sword Goddess said. After her words, she turned and departed.

    In an instant, she was gone! True to form, she appeared and vanished without a trace.

    After her departure, Cao Shuo arched an eyebrow, squinting yfully as she sped Yun Xiao''s arm. "How about that? I handled things pretty well, didn''t I?"

    "Not bad," Yun Xiao conceded.

    "Not bad? You should know, if I hadn''t summoned someone of her caliber, you''d have been done for today," Cao Shuo huffed.

    "I wouldn''t be done for. Pushed to the brink, I''d unleash the Thunder Immortal Formation and st everyone to oblivion," Yun Xiao boasted.

    Cao Shuo pinched his cheek with a resigned gesture. "You, always boasting without a draft. You just make things bigger and bigger. Now, you''ve offended all the high officials of the Thunder Department and dragged me down with you. How will youpensate me?"

    Yun Xiao gave her a quizzical look. "I''ve been wondering, Thunder Emissary Cao, what''s in it for you to take such risks for me?"

    Cao Shuo giggled flirtatiously. "Nothing much, life is but a dream. Given a choice, rather than an old man, I''d pick a strong, young man. Flying high in the clouds, everything feels lighter. I thought to myself, even dying now would be worth it."

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless. Were his charms that effective? He nced down and noticed some blood on his clothes¡ªa sign that this Thunder Emissary wasn''t reckless; she was purer than anyone...

    So, what exactly was on her mind?

    "Does the matter of Sky Soaring City truly involve you?" Cao Shuo suddenly asked seriously.

    "I killed them all, then came to find you," Yun Xiao replied honestly.

    "Boasting again? Do you ever tell the truth?" Cao Shuo said, exasperated.

    Yun Xiao could only respond with a smile. He gazed at her deeply. He knew he had entered her divine form, but perhaps never her heart. Incense offerings? That was a sensitive topic.

    Shaking his head, Yun Xiao said, "Thunder Emissary Cao, there''s still some time before the selection begins. How about I make it up to you one more time?"

    "Don''t!" Cao Shuo instinctively stepped back, clenching her legs and biting her lip. "No more, I need to rest, get some beauty sleep. I''m too old to be tossed around by a young beast like you."

    Yun Xiao chuckled and shook his head. "You''re really weak."

    "Cut it out. I''m just afraid you''ll exhaust yourself and disgrace us at the selection," Cao Shuo retorted with a light huff.

    "Heh," Yun Xiaoughed briefly, then turned toward the Nine Thunders Arena.

    "Lu Yao!" Cao Shuo called out from behind him. "After today''s matches, are you really set on going to the Immortal Sword Court?"

    "What choice do I have?" Yun Xiao replied.

    "We could elope," Cao Shuo suggested.

    "You''re dreaming too big; our feelings aren''t there yet," Yun Xiao said.

    "Figures, you''re heartless once you¡¯re done," Cao Shuo said bitterly.

    Yun Xiao looked at her. Suddenly, he said, "The Thunder Department is actually quite nice; I haven''t had enough fun here yet."

    No other ce had the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    "So?" Cao Shuo''s eyes sparkled a bit.

    "Pray that I make it to the final battle," Yun Xiao said.

    "Heh."

    Now it was Cao Shuo''s turn tough.

    Waving her hand, she said, "Get going, and let''s pretendst night was just a dream I had."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Dawn broke over the sacrednd of the Thunder Department, bathing the entire realm in the divine glow of the Celestial Sourcecore.

    The Thunder Immortal Formation crackled fiercely, with thunderbolts shing and serpents of electricity writhing, plunging the world into violent turmoil.

    The chaos of the night had passed.

    The grave case of Sky Soaring City, sharp as a jagged rock, weighed heavily on the heads of the Arbiters of the Thunder Department, leaving everyone feeling breathless!

    "I heard Lu Yao and Liu Mumu are master and disciple."

    "The affair in Sky Soaring City might involve him!"

    "Why not just arrest him?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "I don''t know! I heard General Cao has disowned him."

    Such murmurs echoed across the Nine Thunders Arena.

    Amidst this fervent spection, the geniuses of the Thunder Department gathered!

    On the white jade tform above the arena, the high officials of the Thunder Department were scattered about, not many had arrived yet.

    Among the early arrivals were Lightning Lord Bo Hong and Thunder Duke Bai Duo.

    "Brother Bai, have you heard about the Moon Sword Goddess?" Bo Hong asked in a low voice.

    Bai Duo nodded deeply.

    "Interesting," Bo Hong chuckled. "Imagine if someone told the Moon Sword Goddess about Lu Yao, Divine Dawn, and the Immortal Asylum incidents. Do you think it would frighten her enough to sever ties with the young brat right there and then?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 595: Alone in a Sea of Hostility

    Chapter 595: Alone in a Sea of Hostility

    In Cao Shuo''s private courtyard, Yun Xiao sat cross-legged amidst a sea of flowers, immersed in meditation.

    "The spirit awakens, thoughts arise from the heart, and when mind and spirit unite, the divine self is achieved."

    This was the profound truth of the Divine Self.

    Spirit Projection, Essence Manifestation, and Divine Self¡­ these were the first three realms of the Third Dao Tribtion, the foundational paths of spiritual growth. After reaching the Divine Self Realm, the will and spirit merged, thoughts became clearer, and the power of the soul intensified.

    Both the duration of the projection and the power of their manifested spirit significantly increased. Most Arbiter Commanders were at this level.

    "The assault on Sky Soaring City was somewhat rushed, under pressing time constraints," Yun Xiao mused. "Yet, Master had still managed to scavenge over 500,000 True Immortal Jades."

    Apart from this, the various celestial pills, herbs, and treasures also approximate 500,000 True Immortal Jades in value.

    This meant Yun Xiao had plundered over 1,000,000 True Immortal Jades from Sky Soaring City.

    "Compared to the 50,000 True Immortal Jades that Gu Suwan gave me, taking lives and seizing treasures truly surpasses ordinary human interactions," Yun Xiao reflected, acknowledging the greater risks involved.Yun Xiao''s immediate financial woes were solved, and he''d secured the Boundary Defining Divine Needle.

    "Having just survived a tribtion with the help of the Moon Sword Goddess, I can now ze through this perilous Celestial Path once again."

    Before the selection of the Thunder Department, Yun Xiao continuously absorbed the Origin Orbs and Tri Heaven Sariras, instantly reaching the Divine Self Realm.

    Yun Xiao didn''t stop there; he grew further in his Worldly Dao Heart, advancing to the Mid Divine Self Realm, breaking through two stages in session.

    "At the very least, in terms ofbat prowess, I am now equivalent to a Rank 7 Sky Protector."

    With his power enhanced but his official position unchanged, Yun Xiao stood up, his eyes fiercely set towards the direction of the Nine Thunders Arena.

    "The Moon Sword Goddess is enigmatic and unpredictable, with unclear intentions. In this Celestial Court, the only things that can truly save me are my rank and status!"

    For Yun Xiao, his new master¡¯s role was simply to shield him from a crisis once. He never expected to fully rely on anyone. Every step in the Great Dao Celestial Realm was like walking a tightrope, yet he had his resolutions.

    And so, Yun Xiao disregarded the affairs of the Immortal Sword Court, his mind focused solely on one thing¡ªto win the Thunder Department selection and ascend the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings.

    Reaching Rank 6 before the age of 30 years old would ce Yun Xiao among the upper echelons of the Celestial Court!

    "It''s time to depart," Yun Xiao murmured as he turned to leave.

    Behind him, Cao Shuo was deep in slumber on a bed in another chamber. Her slightly curled long hair sprawled across the pillow, her slender legs a dazzling sight, her cheeks still flushed with a rosy hue, and her lips curved into a trace of sweetness.

    "The desire to leave a legacy is the greatest joy in the human realm, so potent that even Immortals cannot escape its vulgar pleasures," Yun Xiao mused softly.

    "Put it simply," Blue Star interjected with a smirk.

    "In one word, thrilling." Yun Xiao did not deny the exhration of his midnight escapades¡ªmurder and love seemed to him as simr outlets of release.

    After each, there lingered a sense of emptiness, yet the process was undeniably exhrating, thoroughly invigorating. Of course, the opponent mattered significantly. His previous adversaries were those he had long despised, while his recentpanion was a woman of explosive talent.

    "The road to the heavens should be this thrilling," Yun Xiao said, a slight smile ying on his handsome face, which bore a mix of cool indifference, a devilish charm, and a carefree attitude.

    He grasped a sk of wine, gulping it down with abandon. The celestial wine burned down his throat like life itself. After drinking, he let out a longugh, his mind clear, without a trace of regret. His eyes zed with an intense will that no one could obstruct.

    "Life should be enjoyed to the fullest!" Yun Xiao proimed. And how was one supposed to enjoy life to the fullest? Simply by doing whatever brought joy! There was no need to hold back!

    With his spirits soaring, Yun Xiao rose on his Sovereign Sword.

    "With wine in hand, sword beneath my feet, and clouds around me... this is all I need!" Yun Xiao soared across the sky, wild and unrestrained, dashing and carefree, heading toward the fiery pinnacle of the Thunder Department as the selection approached itsst few rounds!

    Yun Xiao nced down at the Heaven Burial Sword Soul beneath his feat. "The fourth lotus Sword Prison has taken shape."

    Indeed, his Sword Soul now contained four small worlds of Sword Aura.

    In a single night, it had grown threefold¡ªthree Azure Lotus Sword Prisons, each spawned from the sword bones of the dead in Sky Soaring City, devoured in the same manner Yun Xiao had consumed Sword Aura in the past.

    Yet, all Sword Immortals in the Celestial Court were required topress and condense their Sword Prison through the Sword Suppression Gate¡ªa process repeated more frequently by the elite Sword Immortals.

    So, when Yun Xiao found his Sword Soul automatically <em>chewing </em>and <em>digesting</em> another''s Sword Prison, directly replicating his first Azure Lotus Sword Prison and creating a new one, he was genuinely surprised.

    But then, considering that the Heaven Burial Sword Soul was formed from a Dao Source and Primordial Coffin, any marvel seemed usible.

    "That''s handy, it saves me the trips to the Sword Suppression Gate." With that thought, Yun Xiao smiled.

    "It might even make them think I possess my own private Sword Suppression Gate, leading them to concoct backgrounds for me like they do for Jiang Taiping, too wary to act rashly."

    His Sword Soul continued to grow stronger, now firmly on the right track.

    "As for the Life Sigil, it hasn''t formed its first Rune Prison yet; it might need a Sigil Suppression Gate."

    The Thunder Department, of course, had its own Sigil Suppression Gate, functioning much like the Sword Suppression Gate.

    But now, Yun Xiao felt it was unlikely he would be allowed to use it.

    "Then I''ll stick with the sword!"

    At this moment, Yun Xiao was approaching the Nine Thunders Arena. The distant thunder roared, and the thunderclouds solidified. With each round being abination of two, they had now reached the sixth round, and these thunderclouds had grown considerably.

    Yun Xiao arrived just a tadte, and by the time he got there, the sixth round had already begun!

    Since there weren''t many geniuses left, the Thunder Rankings took much longer to announce the battle pairings, often waiting for a focal duel to finish before introducing new fighters.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The number ofpetitors had dwindled, but the audience had grown!

    In thetter rounds, the Thunder Department allowed more spectators to witness the geniuses in action. So, from the sixth round onward, millions had already gathered and fervently watched the battles!

    With more people, the noise grew, the atmosphere thickened, undoubtedly heightening the excitement and tension.

    The entire Nine Thunders Arena was aze with energy!

    "Lu Yao has arrived!"

    As Yun Xiao entered the arena, it was as if thunderps resounded among the crowd.

    Many from the Thunder Department turned their heads, looking at the youth with peculiar expressions. Hostility sprouted in their gazes. Compared to the day before, the crowd''s animosity had increased manifold.

    Yun Xiao remembered that he''d reached the pinnacle of famest night, his disy of talent on the Sword Suppression Gate shaking the Thunder Department to its core.

    Now, he seemed to have be an object of everyone''s disdain. Why? He overheard numerous whispers.

    "They''re all talking about it. He''s taken the Moon Sword Goddess as his master, and he''s severed ties with General Cao. He''s no longer one of us from the Thunder Department."

    "That''s right. From now on, he represents the Immortal Sword Court."

    "Having just climbed to a higher branch, he ruthlessly kicks away his benefactor. How is he any different from an ungrateful cur?"

    "With such a disposition, no matter how talented, he can never be a true personage."

    "I certainly don''t see a bright future for him!"

    "Why align with the Immortal Sword Court, the Thunder Department''s greatest adversary? Purely to disgust us! I praised him just yesterday, and now I''m utterly speechless."

    "You''re right! Now that he''s one of the Immortal Sword Court''s, why does he still botherpeting in the Thunder Department''s selection?"

    With the change of allegiance, the Immortals of the Thunder Department naturally harbored animosity towards him, wishing he would vanish from sight right then and there.

    However, Yun Xiao''s apprenticeship was not official; by thews of the heavens, he remained a Rank 9 Arbiter, eligible to continue in thepetition.

    Yet, the pressure from all of the Thunder Department weighed heavily upon him now.

    Above Yun Xiao were the aloof and frosty 100 high officials of the Thunder Department!

    Around him were over 1,000,000mon Immortals.

    And among the crowd, there were hundreds of geniuses from the Grand Firmament Academy.

    Amidst the disdain, nder, and mockery, streaks of grim murderous intent were hidden!

    "People of the Immortal Sword Court, get out of the Thunder Department!"

    "Go back to your Immortal Sword Court and suckle!"

    "You opportunistic bastard! The Thunder Department raised you! As an Arbiter, you even abandon your identity, do you have a shred of decency left?"

    A barrage of angry shouts filled the air.

    With no one to intervene, the uproar grew louder and wilder.

 Chapter 596: Three Four!

    Chapter 596: Three Four!

    "Silence." It was only when Thunder Duke Bai Duo spoke out that the raging crowd began to quiet.

    From beginning to end, Yun Xiao floated in the air, his world seemingly sealed off. The hostility of the masses meant nothing to him; he simply didn''t care.

    "In the first five rounds, I had Jiang Taiping and Master by my side. Now, it''s truly a solitary battle, one against the geniuses of the Thunder Department."

    Pressure bred motivation! Yun Xiao''s spirit and will remained formidable.

    "Right. Them..." Yun Xiao nced back and saw, at the edge of the crowd, sisters Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing, their eyes red as they watched him. They must have guessed that he was responsible for their father''s death. Yet, under the control of the Prison Warden Sigil, they couldn''t work up an ounce of hatred for him.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Come here," Yun Xiao beckoned.

    The sisters approached obediently, tears brimming in their eyes, yet they treated Yun Xiao gently, encircling him affectionately.

    "I am representing the Immortal Sword Court in battle now," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Yes..." With tears, the two nodded submissively.This scene undoubtedly grated on the nerves of the onlookers.

    In the distance stood Bai Zijun among the disciples of the Grand Firmament Academy, his face a cold pallor. "He''s truly arrogant and reckless."

    "The Nine Thunders Arena needs no words. Whoever faces him should fight him to the death. He destroyed our Sword Suppression Gate and still dreams of climbing to the Immortal Sword Court?

    "The kid has talent, but we can''t allow him to seed at the Immortal Sword Court; otherwise, he''ll be used against us," Bai Zijun said, ncing around. "Whoever among you faces him, don''t fear death; his skills aren''t that strong."

    "Just kill him."

    "If he falls in the Nine Thunders Arena, even the Moon Sword Goddess can''tin."

    Surrounding Bai Zijun were the other children of the high officials from the Thunder Department. They were the true elite among the participants, raised together from childhood.

    This was a true circle of top-tier celestial scions!

    Without parents of Rank 4 or higher, one couldn''t enter this circle.

    Most of them remained in the selection, indicating their exceptional average level.

    For instance, Bai Zijun, barely 20 years old, already boasted a Rank 7 title, hisbat prowess surpassing that of ordinary Sky Protectors. By the time he reached 30 years old, he would have no trouble matching the strength of Rank 6 Heavenly Officers such as Lord Lu.

    Suddenly, Lu Yao''s name appeared on the Thunder Rankings, drawing everyone¡¯s attention.

    In a sh, over 1,000,000 pairs of eyes turned towards the Thunder Rankings.

    ¡°Bai Zijun!¡±

    Following Lu Yao, the next name that appeared was Bai Zijun¡¯s, whether by coincidence or a deliberate arrangement remained unknown.

    At this moment, the atmosphere of the selection had reached a fever pitch, with intense scrutiny focused on Yun Xiao.

    On the Celestial Thunder tform, Bai Duo¡¯s expression tightened as he looked toward Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan nearby.

    ¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand; it was merely a coincidence. I haven¡¯t altered the sequence,¡± Cao Sheng stated tly.

    ¡°You¡¯d better not have,¡± Bai Duo responded coldly.

    Gu Suwan chuckled. ¡°General Bai, your son is already at the Celestial Expanse Realm, his spirit capable of manipting his sword through the heavens and ying foes. He''s almost a match for some Rank 6 Heavenly Officers. For him to deal with a rebel from the Thunder Department is nothing but child''s y. You seem afraid.¡±

    Bai Duo gave them a deep look. This couple had taken the opportunity to sever ties with Lu Yao, while loudly dering Lu Yao¡¯s connections with the Moon Sword Goddess, effectively cing themselves out of the immediate scandal.

    Out of the fray, yet still using this young man to cause trouble?

    "..." Bai Duo was at a loss. Admitting defeat now would deny his own son¡¯s talents.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, under normal circumstances, Zijun has a significant advantage,¡± Bo Hong whispered.

    ¡°And if the circumstances aren''t normal?¡±

    That was what Bai Duo feared.

    ¡°Are you referring to the Sky Soaring City Sword Devil?¡± Bo Hong asked.

    The tale from Sky Soaring City had spread, and the locals had dubbed the murderous devil, the Sky Soaring City Sword Devil.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Bai Duo nodded.

    ¡°No worries, if he shows even a hint of those capabilities, he¡¯ll essentially be proving hemitted the massacre himself in public. If that happens, not even a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer could save him,¡± Bo Hong stated coldly.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Bai Duo thought of Bai Zijun¡¯s many years of achievements and felt slightly reassured.

    Down below, Bai Zijun was the focus of countless eyes, all filled with expectation.

    The thunderous cheers ignited the fire in his blood, turning his mind a fiery red and his desire to fight overwhelming.

    "Sister!" Bai Zijun turned back, looking up at the mountain behind him that loomed even higher.

    It was Bai Ling''er, a true possessor of Rank 6 Heavenly Officer''sbat prowess.

    The Celestial Expanse Realm was above the Divine Self Realm! It was when the spirit ventured far from the body, capable ofmanding the Sword Soul to reach distantnds and y enemies from afar!

    The spirit would ascend the celestial expanse!

    Originally, when Lord Lu attempted to assassinate Yun Xiao at the Soaring Thunder Leap, he''d employed this technique!

    Lord Lu was in the Perfect Celestial Expanse Realm, and so was Bai Ling''er!

    To ascend to the Celestial Expanse Realm before 30 years old was the hallmark of a peak prodigy of the Thunder Department. Others, like Jiang Haiyan, barely in the Early Divine Self Realm at 30 years old, were far behind.

    "For the glory of the Thunder Department, to cleanse the deceitful and wicked demons, to sever the unclean with our swords, is our sacred duty," Bai Ling''er softly told her brother.

    "We children of the Thunder Sword fear no battle!" Bai Zijunughed heartily, his heart open wide, his will as boundless as the sky.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He soared upward, riding on white lightning snakes, arriving like a blinding white lightning storm onto a battlefield surrounded by a pool of thunder.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The electricity from the thundercloud and the white lightning on his body shed and danced together.

    The might of a Thunder Department genius was fully disyed in him!

    "Bai Zijun!"

    The deafening calls, like a tsunami, rolled over the crowd.

    On his shoulders, Bai Zijun bore the hopes of the entire Thunder Department. This battle seemed to have turned into a youthful showdown between the Thunder Department and the Immortal Sword Court.

    Behind Yun Xiao stood only a pair of sisters whose father had been in...

    Behind Bai Zijun were over 1,000,000 Immortals of the Thunder Department!

    This was the kind of battle that thrilled one to the core!

    Because every sword Yun Xiao swung was against 1,000,000 souls!

    This was the atmosphere Yun Xiao desired the most!

    At this moment, Bai Zijun was unaware of the full measure of his own spirit. He knew only that with the entire Thunder Department behind him, his aura surged like a tempest, transforming him into a deity of thunder, while his adversary, Yun Xiao, seemed as insignificant as an ant!

    <em>HUM! </em>Bai Zijun summoned his Sword Soul! It was a Sword Soul formed of white thunderbolts, with roaring thunder along its de, and at the tip and hilt, two white Sword Prisons manifested.

    The Sword Immortals of the Celestial Court seemed to disdain the demonic Sword Rings. So, their swords appeared truly noble and righteous, with thunderbolts purging the evil, their presence awe-inspiring!

    In this moment, Bai Zijun was truly a son of white lightning!

    His stature soared! Then, his spirit manifested, a thunderous light shadow revealing the heritage of his ancestors to the world, his spirit taking the form of a giant white lightning beast with the face of a man!

    ¡°The Bai Ze Spirit!¡±

    Excited shouts reverberated through the heavens.

    Son of Thunder, Bai Ze Spirit, and the Lightning Sword Soul... These three elements united, along with his Celestial Expanse Realm aura, made Bai Zijun stand out like a true, unparalleled genius.

    At this moment, Bai Zijun was at the top of the world!

    ¡°Lu Yao, I will allow you three¡­¡± Surging with emotion and a towering will, Bai Zijun looked down on Yun Xiao and began to speak thunderously.

    Though¡­ he had barely uttered the word <em>three</em> when an azure Sword Soul suddenly shot towards him!

    ¡°Four!!¡± Bai Zijun instinctively cried out a number!

    From three to four, to those unaware, it might seem he was merely counting!

    But those in the know widened their eyes, watching as Bai Zijun¡¯s sentence was cut in half, his mouth pierced by a Flying Sword!

    With a stter, Bai Zijun, who had just made a glorious entrance, now plummeted from the sky like a kite severed from its string.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 597: Drawing the Ire of the Thunderstorm!

    Chapter 597: Drawing the Ire of the Thunderstorm!

    Within the Nine Thunders Arena, a surge of fiery passion rose only to be abruptly quelled.

    A million Immortals from the Thunder Department had tensed, ready to support Bai Zijun with all their might.

    Yet, with Bai Zijun¡¯s swift demise upon his entry, their efforts fizzled out like punches in cotton, leaving them so aggrieved they could almost spit blood.

    Nothing stung more than the swift, thunderous retribution that swelled the faces of the mighty at the very outset.

    The sword that pierced through the throat rendered all prior mocking, nder, and ridicule of Yun Xiao meaningless.

    Those words turned into bitter water in people''s hearts.

    What was once towering rage was met with a resounding p, leaving their minds buzzing, utterly confounded.

    ¡°Bai Zijun, who''s in the Celestial Expanse Realm, couldn¡¯t even parry a single strike from Lu Yao¡­¡±

    ¡°After bing the disciple of the Rank 2 Moon Sword Goddess, he dares to y even the son of a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer in public!¡±¡°Mark my words, that Moon Sword Goddess will be the next General Cao to fall victim to misfortune.¡±

    ¡°Such a cmity, and still someone blind to reason covets his talents?¡±

    After a brief silence, the Immortals of the Thunder Department regained their senses, ring fiercely at Yun Xiao, the bold outsider.

    A storm of curses swept through once again.

    The consensus was blunt and simple, ¡°Lu Yao, what a fool!¡±

    Such crude simplicity was the only outlet for their impotent rage.

    The curses roared like a mountain tsunami.

    Yun Xiao stood amidst the encircling lightning, looking up at the spectacle with awe.

    ¡°I, a mere mortal Emperor from the lower realm, have ascended to the Celestial Court and incited rage in 1,000,000 Immortals. This alone makes my life worthwhile.¡± The curses were like passing clouds to Yun Xiao, who listened with a slight smile, thoroughly enjoying the uproar.

    A single person¡¯s curse could annoy. Ten curses sparked anger. A hundred brought humiliation. But the curses of 1,000,000 made one a legend among men. This was a time of celebration.

    Yet, Yun Xiao, to further provoke the crowd, extended a single middle finger. He ced that finger upon his lips, facing the 1,000,000 who cursed him, and softly whispered a shush.

    In that moment, the Nine Thunders Arena fell into a sudden silence!

    "Such arrogance!"

    "With countless prodigies and Arbiters in the Thunder Department, is there none who can end him?"

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"

    After the silence, a more savage and tumultuous wave of curses resumed.

    Amid this maelstrom of 1,000,000 curses, Yun Xiao casually flicked his sleeves and made a stylish exit.

    To him, Bai Zijun was merely the start of his day. A mere appetizer! He was a busy man!

    Retreating from the thundercloud, Yun Xiao hovered in the sky, his spirit attuned to the heavens, andmenced his cultivation!

    Every break between elimination rounds was a critical time for advancement.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The whirlwind potential of a Creator Immortal was on full disy in the peak battles of the day!

    With every battle, he changed!

    At this moment, Yun Xiao stood at the heart of a thunderstorm, enduring the stern gazes of 1,000,000, unshaken as a mountain!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Little brother..." In the crowd, Bai Ling''er cradled the lifeless body of her brother, already weeping herself into a figure of tears.

    Bai Zijun''s blood stained her pure white dress.

    The girl''s delicate face, ethereal as a snow-white lotus, was now marred by tears like rain, her sorrowful visage wrenching the hearts of onlookers.

    "Forget the Moon Sword Goddess, I will kill him myself! I''m not afraid of death!"

    Around her, numerous prodigies from the Grand Firmament Academy had eyes blood red with rage. Had it not been for their elders holding them back, they might have truly charged at Yun Xiao to annihte him together!

    "Zijun was only 20 years old, what skill is there in bullying a child!"

    "If he had faced Ling''er and the others, this vile creature would be torn to shreds!"

    The hundreds of geniuses were furious, their desire to kill rising boundlessly, their eyes aze with murderous intent.

    Just then, the crowd stirred.

    "Brother Feng is here!"

    The people cleared a path.

    A youth, dreamy as the starry night, approached like the wind. d in blue, his lithe figure seemed touched by divinity, especially his eyes. They held no pupils but swirled with tiny tempests of azure that seemed to devour souls.

    "Ling''er." Feng Qi crouched down, nced at the lifeless Bai Zijun, and the storm in his eyes quickened, whipping up fierce winds around him, causing many to instinctively step back.

    "Brother Feng." Bai Ling''er, heartbroken, leaned into Feng Qi''s embrace, her tears flowing. "My little brother is so pitiful, my heart aches so."

    "Be strong..." Feng Qi held her tightly, the tempest in his eyes growing more turbulent.

    "Brother Feng, Ling''er, you must avenge Zijun!"

    "The Nine Thunders Arena is a good opportunity!"

    "You both are at the Perfect Celestial Expanse Realm, only such talents can deal with this scoundrel."

    Nearby, the righteously indignant prodigies were eager.

    Yet, Feng Qi remained calm. He gently patted Bai Ling''er''s shoulder, saying, "Don''t worry, I''ve already pressed my father to influence the Immortal Sword Court. As long as this fiend has no protection, he''s as good as dead."

    "Good..." Bai Ling''er wiped away her tears, softly adding, "With Ster Margrave Feng Xuan taking action, I believe the Moon Sword Goddess will soon realize, this criminal is a disaster."

    "Mhm." Feng Qi took her hand, continuing, "I suspect Cao Sheng has discarded thisd and now uses him to spite your father. If he''s your next opponent, it''s surely Cao Sheng¡¯s doing. Don''t face him; either dy or handle him outside the arena. He''s too unpredictable, and I fear more trouble in the ring."

    Bai Ling''er paused, murmuring, "Brother Feng, I¡¯m in the Perfect Celestial Expanse Realm, and on a regr day, I handle Rank 6 Judicial Immortals easily. Yet, you''re saying I should yield to him?"

    "It¡¯s not about fearing the 10,000 possibilities, but the one that happens. Before Zijun''s debut, no one favored Lu Yao," Feng Qi spoke coolly.

    "Understood..." Bai Ling''er sighed deeply. "It¡¯s ridiculous, really. Our mighty Thunder Department, a ce of righteousness, allows such a sinister, chaotic, shameless, and arrogant criminal to murder indiscriminately and roam free."

    "Don¡¯t worry." Feng Qi''s eyes stormed. "Justice may be dyed, but it never fails to arrive."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Atop the Celestial Thunder Formation, Cao Sheng cleared his throat, saying, "Bai Duo, to avoid any misunderstanding, let me rify once more that I did not tamper with the order of the matches."

    Bai Duo, his face shadowed and grim, ignored Cao Sheng, his gaze fixed on the arena.

    Finding no amusement in the conversation, Cao Sheng shrugged and fell silent.

    After a while, Bai Duo suddenly stood up and said to Bo Hong, "Excuse me for a moment."

    Bo Hong grabbed his arm, asking, "Are you going to see the Moon Sword Goddess?"

    "I fear Cao Sheng is ruthless enough to not spare even my daughter," Bai Duo replied in a low, cold voice.

    "She¡¯s much stronger than you think. This scoundrel isn¡¯t that over the top, is he?" Bo Hong countered.

    "I¡¯m certain that the Sky Soaring City Sword Devil is thisd''s doing," Bai Duo asserted gravely.

    Upon hearing this, Bo Hong¡¯s face darkened. Finally, he nodded, "Alright, go find her. Although this won¡¯t spare her some hardships, at least it will rid us of this annoying nuisance sooner. I''ve had enough of this scoundrel too."

    "Right." Without further hesitation, Bai Duo quietly left the White Jade Immortal tform.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above the Nine Thunders Arena, amid the celestial clouds, a frosty sword maiden and a thunder enchantress stood proudly among the swirling winds. Their robes billowed and their long hair fluttered. Straight silver locks and curly violet strands interwove in the air.

    The serene and charming presence of mature women was fully disyed in this moment.

    The Moon Sword Goddess'' silver eyes were fixed on Yun Xiao, who stood defiant before 1,000,000 Immortals.

    "He''s quite something, isn¡¯t he?" Cao Shuo said proudly, her arms crossed.

    "The talent is undeniable," the Moon Sword Goddess replied, pursing her lips and shaking her head. "But honestly, his character iscking, a bit uneducated. With that temperament, he''ll only face setbacks in the politicking of the Celestial Court. Unless he adjusts, his high talent will not save him from an early demise."

    Cao Shuo, pursing her lips in displeasure, disagreed, "I see it differently. I like his resilience and arrogance; a man should be captivating like that."

    The Moon Sword Goddess gave her a cold, mocking look. "Your taste is truly insufferable. What you admire isn¡¯t called being a man; it¡¯s being a dead man."

 Chapter 598: Im Seldom Wrong About People

    Chapter 598: I''m Seldom Wrong About People

    "Alright." Cao Shuo paused for a moment, then asked quietly, "Sister, if you disdain him, just leave him to me. I''ll discipline him properly in the Thunder Department."

    The Moon Sword Goddess gave her a cold nce and said, "You think too beautifully, using my authority to openly keep a man for you? He causes trouble everywhere; what benefit is there for me?"

    "What should we do then? You''ve already taken him as a disciple, now you find fault with his nature and despise him," Cao Shuo said.

    The Moon Sword Goddess gazed at Yun Xiao and said softly, "I n to temper his character, then send him to the Western Kunlun Pce. The bored olddies there should grant him their favor."

    "Sister..." Cao Shuo''s expression changed, and she gritted her teeth, "Please, have mercy. The Western Kunlun Pce is no ce for a man. He willpletely lose his luster and be nothing but a pet of their desires."

    "There''s no other way." The Moon Sword Goddess'' eyes were frosty. "I''m seldom wrong about people. Thisd is wed. In today¡¯s world, even with ten times the talent, he won''t amount to much."

    "No!" Cao Shuo was desperate. "Don''t make conclusions so hastily. I will educate him properly, and you, you can try to magnify his talents in swordsmanship as much as possible. He is grateful and will respect you. You will profit from this."

    The Moon Sword Goddessughed upon hearing this. She looked deeply at Cao Shuo and said, "Sister, I don''t trust you."

    "Why?" Cao Shuo asked."You don''t even ept incense offerings; you have no future in the Celestial Court. Everyone is intoxicated but you remain sober; you are sanctimonious, aloof," the Moon Sword Goddess said with a wistful smile.

    "..." Cao Shuo bowed her head, silent.

    "Here¡¯s what we¡¯ll do," the Moon Sword Goddess looked at her, "you ept incense offerings once in the mortal realm, and I¡¯ll give this boy a chance, how about that?"

    Cao Shuo looked up, staring nkly at her.

    "This is to save you, sister. If you don¡¯t appreciate it, I won¡¯t mention it again," the Moon Sword Goddess said gravely.

    "Sister..." Cao Shuo took a deep breath and said earnestly, "I thank you. Please give me some time to think."

    "Useless." The Moon Sword Goddess shook her head and scoffed, "Then let''s see how long this boy canst."

    Just as the words were spoken, a figure tore through the sky amidst swirling winds and clouds.

    It was none other than Thunder Duke Bai Duo.

    "Greetings to the Moon Sword Goddess." After paying his respects, Bai Duo turned to Cao Shuo and said, "So, Thunder Emissary Cao is also here?"

    "What do you want?" Cao Shuo asked, displeasure clear in her tone.

    Bai Duo looked towards the woman with silver hair and dered, "I''vee to rescue the Moon Sword Goddess."

    At this, both the Moon Sword Goddess and Cao Shuo were momentarily stunned.

    "Then try and rescue me," the Moon Sword Goddess said.

    "Yes." Bai Duo nodded. "This starts with a junior named Gu Sutao."

    He then recounted everything Gu Sutao had confessed.

    "In short, this boy is tangled with Divine Dawn and the Immortal Asylum, and he carries with him a great disaster!"

    Having said this, Bai Duo looked deeply at the Moon Sword Goddess and continued, "I have said all that needs to be said. Please, consider my words. I shall take my leave now."

    With that, he departed swiftly, leaving the Moon Sword Goddess and Cao Shuo with grim expressions, standing amidst the stormy clouds.

    "Cao Shuo!" the Moon Sword Goddess turned, her gaze piercing the woman in violet, "Did you know all this before you led me to the Thunder Department?"

    "Sister, I swear, I knew nothing of this," Cao Shuo shook her head.

    "You almost ruined me..." The Moon Sword Goddess narrowed her eyes.

    "Could it perhaps not be that serious?" Cao Shuo frowned.

    "Shut your mouth! Matters of the Immortal Asylum and Divine Dawn are the Celestial Court''s greatest peril now. Without sufficient rank, it''s just suicide."

    The Moon Sword Goddess said this with chilling indifference, her gaze turning towards the Nine Thunders Arena, "Thankfully, Bai Duo informed me in time for me to pull back from the brink... Don''t just stand there, think of something. I need to rid myself of this disciple and leave the Thunder Department with dignity."

    "Yes..." Cao Shuo nodded. Her eyes brimmed with deep worry.

    An hour ago, it was passion and bliss. Now, emptiness surged, reality was harsh, and a path of life and deathy suddenly before her.

    The severity of the situation far exceeded her imagination.

    "Hmph!" The Moon Sword Goddess gave her a cold re and vanished before her eyes.

    Cao Shuo was now left alone. She looked towards Yun Xiao, now the target of the wrath of 1,000,000 Immortals.

    "The poor kid doesn''t even know he''s been forsaken by his strongest ally..."

    Such was the merciless reality of their world. Nobody would choose to ally with disaster!

    And now Cao Shuo, how was she to decide?

    In that moment, her heart trembled, caught in an extreme struggle.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After half an hour, the 1,000,000 Immortals finally grew tired of their cursing, and the battlefield quieted down somewhat.

    "Good, Perfect Divine Self Realm!"

    In just that half-hour, Yun Xiao had gotten in some cultivating and broke through two more stages. Hisbat power soared once again.

    "With money, nothing can stop you."

    This deadly challenge in the Thunder Department indeed set Yun Xiao on a path to ascendancy. But this path was perilous, devoid ofpanions, leaving only solitarybat!

    He never cared about that! The fiercest path was always meant to be walked alone!

    As long as he did not die, nothing else mattered. He held one belief! He was to seek justice for all the mortals in the lower realms. Be it a genius or a destructive beauty, anyone in his way would perish! It was that simple!

    "This round ofbat has ended, the seventh round is about to begin."

    The remaining geniuses were fewer and fewer! Of course, those who could win six consecutive battles were naturally the elite of the elite!

    "Everyone left likely possesses thebat power of a Lord Lu." Yun Xiao had been in the Celestial Court only a few days, yet he had already matched thebat prowess of a high-ranking Immortal official.

    Three more rounds of battle remained.

    "Secure a spot to the Divine Gateway, ascend the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings, and no one can touch me!"

    Yun Xiao''s resolve was as firm as ever. Then, the matchups for the seventh round were announced.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Lu Yao!" Yun Xiao had never imagined he''d be the first to fight in this round. No matter. It was time to face it! He lifted his head, confronting the renewed hostility in the eyes of 1,000,000 Immortals, and stepped onto his path.

    Soon after, the Nine Heavens Thunder Ranking announced his opponent''s name.

    "Bai Ling''er!"

    Yun Xiao was stunned when the name was called out. Facing siblings inbat was statistically improbable¡ªnearly impossible! Yet, here it was happening.

    The 1,000,000Immortals of the Thunder Department were equally baffled.

    On the Celestial Thunder tform, Bai Duo suddenly stood, his gaze locked fiercely on Cao Sheng.

    "Cao Sheng!" His eyes zed with fury.

    Cao Sheng also stood, furrowing his brow deeply and gritting his teeth. "I swear, I didn''t manipte anything!"

    "If my daughteres to harm, I will never forgive you!" Bai Duo said coldly.

    "I said, I didn''t manipte it!" Cao Sheng, a man also known for his temper, retorted sharply.

    "General Bai, this is truly a coincidence. To avoid any mishaps, perhaps you could ask your daughter to forfeit?" Gu Suwan suggested, trying to mediate.

    "She has a chance to reach the Divine Gateway!" Bai Duo stated firmly.

    The conversation could not continue beyond this point.

    Whether Cao Sheng had manipted the oue was unknown to anyone.

    With no further words, Bai Duo stepped down from the Celestial Thunder tform andnded beside Thundercloud 1.

    "Dad..."

    Amid the focus of thousands, Bai Ling''er suppressed the mes of vengeance in her heart and said to her father, "Don¡¯t worry, I know the opponent is cunning, so I''m willing to concede."

    "No need!" Bai Duo stood by the edge of the thundercloud, his gaze coldly fixed on Yun Xiao, and said in a low tone, "You will fight him!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 599: If One Sword Doesnt Do the Job, Strike Again!

    Chapter 599: If One Sword Doesn''t Do the Job, Strike Again!

    When Bai Ling''er saw her father urging her to fight, her sharp mind quickly grasped the situation.

    "Judging from father¡¯s demeanor, Lu Yao''s new protector must have backed out!"

    Indeed, this was grand news! Lu Yao, a mere lowborn in the Thunder Department, had stirred up storms only by virtue of his talents, attracting one powerful ally after another.

    From Jiang Taiping to Cao Sheng, then to Gu Zhenxiao, and now the Moon Sword Goddess!

    He had been leaping about, brash and ignorant. Who could tolerate it? Her brother''s death still haunted her, unresolved. Had it not been for the advice of Feng Qi, Bai Ling''er would not have considered avoiding the fight.

    But now, with her father''s close protection, her hatred surged anew. Without another word, she stepped onto Thundercloud 1.

    Amidst the swirling winds and thunder, the man and woman, both d in white, appeared ethereal and otherworldly, like a divine couple. Yet, in reality, they were mortal enemies.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As the two faced each other, the gazes of 1,000,000 Immortals locked onto them, their hearts pounding like thunder¡ªsuch was the anticipation for this battle!

    The stern stance of Bai Duo reassured the crowd."Lu Yao, who has been thrashing weaker opponents and lucking out until now, has finally met his match!"

    "The daughter of a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer, born into a prestigious family of the Thunder Department and trained from youth, she''s like a lotus in the midst of thunder..."

    Bai Ling''er''s beauty was famous throughout the sacrednd of the Thunder Department.

    She was the epitome of purity, detachment, elegance, and depth. She was the goddess in the hearts of many talented youths! A girl as exalted and pristine as her¡­ who wouldn¡¯t admire her?

    In contrast, Lu Yao, always scheming, opportunistic, and wildly arrogant... was indeed among the most despised of all time!

    It was clear who had the support of these Immortals of the Thunder Department!

    For a moment, it seemed as if all the oppressive might of this corner of the world bore down on Yun Xiao alone, like 1,000,000 mountains, intent on crushing his spine and forcing him to bow his head.

    In that awe-inspiring moment, Yun Xiao had shed his Arbiter armor. He was wearing only the simple white robe woven by Zhao Xuanran herself, which fluttered amid the storm. He calmly gazed at the girl before him, who bore a striking resemnce to Lian Xi...

    She was so clean, so young, so purely white. And her hatred, her disgust for Yun Xiao, was just as pure!

    Her eyes bloodshot with rage, she used him, voice trembling with grief, "How can there be someone as shameless as you in the world? My brother had no quarrel with you, why did you insist on murdering him? Just for a moment of pride, you mercilessly took a living soul, you brutal and merciless killer. Even if I do not end you today, divine retribution will not let you die a good death!"

    Yun Xiao, seeing her so distraught, asked curiously, "Haven''t you, walking the path of immortality for nearly thirty years, ever killed anyone?"

    Bai Ling''er bit her lip, her gaze clear and stern. "Who said that practicing immortality requires the ughter of the innocent? I have walked the path of immortality without ever harming a soul, and my progress has not suffered in the least!"

    "Admirable." Yun Xiao was somewhat speechless, truly facing a saintly woman!

    Confronted by such a person, being questioned about his morals, Yun Xiao felt somewhat ashamed. He took a slight breath, then asked softly, "Isn''t that wrong? Haven''t you epted incense offerings..."

    Before he could finish, Bai Ling''er''s expression tightened, and she sharply retorted, "That''s different, there''s no need to mix things up."

    "What''s different? Are those countless lives not lives?" Yun Xiao said this, shaking his head with a somewhat ironic smile.

    So, this white lotus grew out of a sea of blood?

    Hearing this, Bai Ling''er snorted coldly. "Each being has its destiny; the high ascend and contemte the Dao, shining eternally like the sun, the moon, and the stars, while the low live and die in a day, fleeting as mayflies. This is the cycle of heaven and earth, conforming to the heavenly way, unrted to life and death, a lofty act of the highest heavens. You question my spiritual integrity with this matter, merely a childish switch in concepts, quite presumptive."

    "Oh, I see, enlightening indeed," Yun Xiao said, nodding profoundly. "I really must thank you for clearing up my confusion, otherwise I''d forever be in the dark, never realizing that these offerings, for the transient beings, are acts ofpassion."

    "Your sarcasm is pointless," Bai Ling''er remarked. Then, with her sword drawn amidst the swirling storm, she coldly addressed Yun Xiao, "You hope to shake my spirit, to find a crack to break me¡ªit''s pure folly. Avoid your cunning tricks and face me in a fair fight, and maybe you¡¯ll earn my respect."

    "Understood, thank you for the wake-up call," Yun Xiao replied, and with that, amidst the roaring wind and thunder, he too drew his sword.

    His Heaven Burial Sword Soul, with its four azure lotus Sword Prisons, was ringly obvious!

    Many knew Yun Xiao had caught the Moon Sword Goddess'' attention by forming a single Sword Prison at the Sword Suppression Gate¡­ justst night!

    And Yun Xiao''s encounter with the Moon Sword Goddess had been just this dawn.

    So, how did hee by these three additional Sword Prisons?

    This question lingered in the minds of many Immortals, yet in the chilling moment, no one delved deeper.

    "He''s under 30 years old and possesses four Sword Prisons! It''s indeed a dazzling sight, but Bai Ling''er also possesses four!"

    Onlookers fixed their gaze and saw Bai Ling''er clutching a white Thunder Sword Soul, adorned with four white lotuses formed of thunder sword energy!

    It was these four white lotus Sword Prisons that seemed to make her Sword Soul even sharper than Yun Xiao''s!

    After all, Bai Ling''er was supported by the celestial power of the Perfect Celestial Expanse Realm!

    Moreover, Bai Ling''er had her little brother''s Bai Ze Spirit, which though stronger, orbited her white Sword Soul with a sentient, indifferent gaze towards Yun Xiao.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Bai Ling''er demonstrated her prowess, indeed far mightier than her brother, attracting the electric serpents in the thundercloud below her. Around her delicate body, they formed into thunder sword orbs, bursting with deafening crackles and snaps!

    The maiden raised her sword, her long hair and white dress fluttering, thunder rolling around her like the descent of a celestial being of lightning, imbued with the sanctity of the heavens and the authority of thunderous judgment.

    "Wow!"

    Such splendor naturally drew cheers from the many male Arbiters and envy from many women, who swallowed their jealousy in silent shame.

    Bai Ling''er was truly exalted, like a sacred white lotus of the heavenly pce, pure and invible!

    Yet, what truly intimidated Yun Xiao was not her, but the presence lurking behind her in the mist, whose eyes, sharp as swords, were fixed on him¡ªThunder Duke Bai Duo!

    His strength surpassed that of Jiang Taiping and Cao Shuo, making him a true pinnacle force of the Celestial Court, many cultivation stages above the rest!

    And Bai Duo''s gaze told Yun Xiao that with him present, Yun Xiao was in dire straits, and could not touch his daughter by even a hair.

    Indeed, his appearance here was a message to Yun Xiao, "I disregard the rules of the Thunder Department selection; I''ve got you cornered!"

    With the Moon Sword Goddess around, why was he so arrogant?

    Yun Xiao knew it well¡­ Without a doubt, this was the most perilous moment since arriving at the Thunder Department!

    He was truly in the hottest seat of the fire! Before him, the maiden and her supportive father, their gazes filled only with disgust and dominance towards Yun Xiao.

    "This farce must end," Bai Ling''er dered as she danced with her sword, summoning a vast sea of thunder toward Yun Xiao!

    She wasn''t the frightening part. It was the intricate and massivework of celestial connections within the Thunder Department backing her¡ªa that devoured its prey!

    Yun Xiao exhaled softly, his eyes sparking with endless electric fire, growing hotter by the moment.

    "So you have your father''s protection, the Thunder Department''s support. Are you the holy light, the vanquisher of evil, revered by all?"

    This was the stark reality.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The dirtiest of them often shone the brightest.

    Under this overwhelming pressure from father and daughter, Yun Xiao did not retreat a single step.

    "Be wary of his desperation, risking his life for a life!" many of Bai Duo''s friends cautioned.

    Bai Duo himself could have handled Yun Xiao easily. But still, he wanted to give his daughter a chance to rise in fame and avenge her brother!

    Stepping over Yun Xiao would secure a brighter future for Bai Ling''er.

    "A mantis trying to stop a chariot, only adding to the ridicule," Bai Duo sneered, his eyes swirling with storms.

    Yun Xiao met his gaze head-on! Without a word, the young man in white transformed into a bolt of lightning, rushing upward into the sky.

    His sword pointed at the heavens, furiously summoning the storm!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Thousands of lightning serpents converged, forming a cloud of electricity around his Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    This scene was familiar to many.

    "Ascend the Heavens, Awaken the Spring Thunder!"

    Many spectators in the crowd were in an uproar. Others looked on with bemused expressions, turning their eyes toward Cao Sheng.

    Cao Sheng''s face was ashen!

    In the sh of lightning, Yun Xiao suddenly wielded his sword like a tempestuous bolt of lightning, with frightening speed!

    This strike was aimed directly at Bai Ling''er''s head! Crackling and popping, the four azure lotus Sword Prisons unleashed a sweep of deathly force.

    "Devilish trickery!" Bai Ling''er sneered, her body a dreamlike figure twirling with her white lotus Sword Soul. A giant white lotus, crafted from a mix of thunder and sword energy, blossomed on the thundercloud. Pure and untainted, the petals unfolded like a gaping maw, reaching skyward to snap at Yun Xiao''s sword descending from the heavens.

    "World-Calming Thunder Blossom!"

    This was the famed sword technique of the Bai Family.

    Its spectacr emergence drew cheers, affirming Bai Ling''er''s bravery and strength in the eyes of the crowd.

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em> Swords shed in an instant.

    Yun Xiao''s face was impassive, while Bai Ling''er''s expression shifted drastically!

    At the moment the Spring Thunder collided with the World-Calming Thunder Blossom, Yun Xiao''s azure sword seemed to tear through this sacred blossom. The strike, unstoppable, obliterated this beautiful flower amid a storm of lightning, its tip aimed directly at Bai Ling''er!

    "I am not his match!" Bai Ling''er concluded, her pretty face covered in frost, her expression sour.

    However hard it was for her to ept, Bai Ling''er didn''t try to persist blindly. Decisively, she withdrew her sword and retreated, even calling out for her father in this supposedly fair Thunder Department selection.

    No need for her to shout; Bai Duo had already seen that Bai Ling''er couldn''t handle this stepping stone.

    The formidable father hesitated not a moment, hurling a blinding electric flying sword straight at Yun Xiao''s heart.

    <em>KLANG! </em>A small ck beast popped out of Yun Xiao''s chest, Red Moon baring its teeth to block the strike!

    Hispanion had been ready!

    A sudden explosive roar shook as Yun Xiao, in his attack on Bai Ling''er, was sted out of the thundercloud by Bai Duo''s sword!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>As Yun Xiao steadied himself, still surrounded by bursts of thunder, his chest ached severely, blood trickling from his mouth.

    This sudden turn stunned everyone.

    "He''s not dead?" Bai Duo retracted his sword soul, his gaze filled with doubt. He looked coldly as Yun Xiao, floating in the air, began to recover.

    The young man lifted his head, his eyes chillingly cold as he looked at Bai Duo, a slight cold smile curling his lips. "General Bai, did you falter?"

    "Hmph!" Bai Duo snorted. Having struck, he had not intended to show mercy. If one sword didn''t do the job, he''d strike again!

 Chapter 600: Flip the Table? Lets Flip the Table!

    Chapter 600: Flip the Table? Let''s Flip the Table!

    On the Celestial Thunder tform, not a single one of the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department moved to save Yun Xiao.

    As Bai Duo prepared to strike again, Yun Xiao suddenly sneered, "You''re too weak; you can''t even save your own daughter."

    "..." Bai Duo was taken aback.

    Just then, a scream echoed from below.

    Bai Duo''s heart shuddered, and he looked down!

    There, in spirit form, Yun Xiao wielded a long white sword and drove the de into the top of Bai Ling''er''s head!

    Bai Ling''er shed no blood, her eyes wide open, froth on her lips, her scream piercing the air!

    "Daddy, daddy..." Her body stiffened, her eyes dim with despair and confusion, and just like that, she lost her radiance, her body falling like a kite whose string had snapped.

    This scene plunged the entire battlefield into a deathly silence.It was only now that people remembered the first time Yun Xiao manifested his spirit; he had used a sinister method to kill.

    His spirit shadowed his physical form, duplicating his attacks.

    Even Bai Duo saw only the physical strike amid the thunder, missing the phantom spirit''s deadly hit on Bai Ling''er!

    After merging his will and spirit, Yun Xiao''s astral killing power soared, deadly enough to take lives.

    "Even with a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer protecting you, I still struck you down." Yun Xiao''s voice was like the boom of death''s thunder, merciless and cold.

    The onlookers were stunned. Not only did Yun Xiao survive the attack, but he also bypassed Bai Duo to y his daughter?

    It wasn''t just the spectators; even Bai Duo himself felt as if he''d been struck by lightning!

    This was not just a loss of face, but of his children''s lives as well!

    When Bai Duo once more saw Yun Xiao''s defiant gaze, rage and hatred erupted from within him like a volcanic st.

    His eyes, zing with the intent to kill, intensified tenfold.

    "What now? General Bai, openly breaking the rules during the Thunder Department selection, attacking me was one thing, but to seek vengeance in public after the contest?"

    <em>RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE! </em>Endless storms gathered behind Bai Duo. His eyes surged with electric fury. No one stepped out to try and stop him.

    "This is pointless now," Bai Duo muttered.

    Yun Xiao had his sights set on ascending the Nine Heavens Thunder Ranking. But he was just two battles short!

    It was clear there was trouble from the Moon Sword Goddess'' side, which gave Bai Duo the audacity to intercept and attempt to y him.

    Yun Xiao was a man who wore his freedom lightly.

    "Since I''ve already got the Boundary Defining Divine Needle and saved who I wanted to save, if this Thunder Department selection doesn''t go as nned, then so be it. Might as well make a clean sweep of it and take all the treasures!"

    Yun Xiao had hoped to progress step by step. But these people wouldn''t allow it! So, he decided to go all out and deliver a fierce blow, especially now that the Nine Thunders Arena was crowded¡ªit was a good time to turn the world upside down.

    "Two Supreme Generals and all you Thunder Dukes, don''t even think about escaping." Yun Xiao''s eyes were fiercely cold! He had a backup n, the Thunder Immortal Formation, he was fearless!

    If he could be promoted, he would take it; if not, they could all go to hell!

    Just like his violent take-over of Sky Soaring City, Yun Xiao was content to remain peaceful unless pushed to the brink. And if pushed, he would strike!

    Before Bai Duo, Yun Xiao spread his arms, his spirit reaching towards the heavens, ready to give the Great Dao Celestial Realm a piece of sensational news!

    Even though this would make him a true fugitive of the Celestial Court, it couldn''t be helped.

    From the moment Yun Xiao stepped into the Thunder Department, Cao Sheng and the Supreme General wanted to exploit his talents and swordsmanship, not even granting him the short span of two days for the Thunder Department selection!

    What could he do?

    This Celestial Court''s Thunder Department, a ce of judgment, was rotten to the core!

    Without status or backing, just talent made one like cabbage in the market, everyone wanting a bite.

    In that moment, the angry and indifferent gazes of the high officials on the Celestial Thunder tform spoke volumes!

    Yun Xiao had no more expectations! If it was to be a fight, then a fight it would be¡ªhe had no regrets! After all, he had nothing to lose!

    His spirit connected with the Supreme Evesting Nine Heavens Sovereign Thunder Immortal Formation! Anger surging, that colossal face was soon to reappear in the sky!

    This time, he would let them see clearly who he was...

    Yun Xiao was fully prepared in his heart.

    As Bai Duo charged forward with his sword poised to strike, a woman dressed in a violet gown with curly hair suddenly appeared in front of him!

    She stood there with authority and a chilling indifference, pointing at Bai Duo¡¯s nose, she challenged, "General Bai, are you trying to start a war with the Immortal Sword Court?"

    The woman was Cao Shuo.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes were drawn to the striking curves of her figure against the backdrop, and he was momentarily stunned, "Wasn¡¯t the Moon Sword Goddess'' support supposed to have crumbled?"

    He was frozen, and so was Bai Duo.

    Driven by a fierce rage, Bai Duo gritted his teeth and red at Cao Shuo, "Stop spouting nonsense, the Moon Sword Goddess already knows..."

    "You underestimate the Immortal Sword Court and the Western Kunlun Pce. They have spoken, and they want Lu Yao," Cao Shuo retorted with a coldugh.

    Bai Duo felt as if he''d been struck by lightning.

    On the Celestial Thunder tform, the high officials of the Thunder Department stood up, some in disbelief, including the two Supreme Generals.

    "Stand down!" n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Although Cao Shuo''s rank was lower than Bai Duo¡¯s, at this moment, she represented more than just herself.

    Bai Duo¡¯s face twisted! He breathed heavily, staring furiously at Yun Xiao, his anger nearly tearing him apart.

    "General Bai, better hurry to make arrangements for your children¡¯s affairs; dy longer, and their bodies might decay," Yun Xiao said calmly, standing behind Cao Shuo.

    "You!" Bai Duo was ovee with fury, spitting blood from the corner of his mouth.

    "I defeated them fair and square. They were no match for me, and that¡¯s not my fault. As for your attempt to ambush me just now, considering you''re a father, I might show mercy and not hold it against you," Yun Xiao added.

    "Bai Duo!" Yun Yin, the Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General, called out softly.

    "Yes...!" Bai Duo, nearly biting through his tongue in rage, red murderously at Yun Xiao. Then, trembling with fury, he took his children''s bodies and left.

    With his departure, the Nine Thunders Arena fell into silence once more!

    A million Immortals of the Thunder Department gritted their teeth in rage, their eyes bloodshot as they watched Yun Xiao, their minds filled with murderous intent, yet again impotent with fury.

    "How could there be such a despicable person!"

    "Moon Sword Goddess!"

    "Ah!"

    They were nearly mad with anger.

    As they red almost to the point of spitting blood, Cao Shuo turned, wrapping her arms around Yun Xiao¡¯s waist in an intimate gesture.

    "There are two rounds left. I¡¯ll be there on time," Yun Xiao said, and together with Cao Shuo, they walked away with long strides.

    "Death!"

    "Who can kill him in the Nine Thunders Arena?"

    A million immortals boiled with fury.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    No sooner had the two left the Nine Thunders Arena than Yun Xiao turned to the seductress of the Thunder Department beside him. "Thanks for the timely rescue. A momentter, and I might not have made it."

    Cao Shuo looked at him quizzically and smirked, "Why do I not see even a hint of fear of death in you?"

    "It¡¯s all an act, I¡¯m actually terrified inside," Yun Xiao confessed.

    "Nobody believes that." Cao Shuo rolled her eyes. After speaking, she suddenly grabbed Yun Xiao''s arms, looked deeply into his eyes, and asked, "Lu Yao darling, tell me, who stands behind you?"

    "Behind me?" Yun Xiaoughed. "No one. What are you imagining?"

    "Stop ying dumb!" Cao Shuo red at him, biting her lip. "I mean those who oppose the incense offerings with you, including the Sky Soaring City Sword Devil! You must have a big organization nning all this resistance!"

    Yun Xiao was speechless for a while, then looked at Cao Shuo oddly and asked, "Why do you want to know?"

    "Nonsense, I want to join your organization!" Cao Shuo said anxiously.

    "Have you never taken part in the incense offerings?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    Cao Shuo shook her head. "It¡¯s all a lie, I can¡¯t stand it. No matter how nicely they put it, it''s just about going to the mortal realm to suck human blood and eat human flesh. I can¡¯t stand it!"

    "That¡¯s indeed rare." Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help but see her in a new light. "Your kind isn¡¯tmon in the Thunder Department, are they?"

    "Rare? There are hardly any. It¡¯s been driving me mad. For a long time, I¡¯ve been wondering if I''m sick¡ªmy brother always says I am.¡± Cao Shuo sighed.

    "Actually, if you''re brave enough to try, you''ll find it¡¯s quite simple. It doesn¡¯t harm your moral essence," Yun Xiao said.

    Cao Shuo shot him a look. "Save it, don''t pretend. I''m good at reading people. You act mercilessly, yet you guard something deep inside, you can¡¯t hide it from me."

    "..." Yun Xiao fell silent.

    Cao Shuo released his arms, her voice a soft sigh, "You have no idea how hard it is for me! Sometimes I wonder if it''s all too exaggerated. How can so many people ept the incense offerings so indifferently? Even if they initially resist, why do they all soon embrace it?

    "Eventually, I understood. This is a world ofpetition, where others <em>cheat</em> to make rapid progress. If you don¡¯t cheat, you''ll be left behind, your family will vanish, and you''ll be an outsider, doomed to a miserable life.

    "Once such people arepletely eliminated, those who partake in the incense offerings will dominate the discourse. They''ll establish thews, im righteousness, and help everyone ovee their psychological hurdles by constantly suggesting that their actions are in alignment with the heavenly way. Repeat a suggestion enough times, and it bes seen as just, especially when it brings benefits."

    Cao Shuo¡¯s words perfectly reflected what had happened to Bai Ling''er.

    Why had she be so distorted?

    In the Celestial Court, she had never killed anyone. But in the mortal realm, she could ughter at will. Because if a circle was tainted, the clean ones perished. It was gradual corruption!

    In the end, people would be separated into mortal and Immortal!

    "It¡¯s been so hard for me; in the Thunder Department, I¡¯m the fool. If it weren¡¯t for my attractive figure drawing some unwanted attention, who knows where I¡¯d be now!" Cao Shuo opened up, suddenly looking rather foolish.

    She was indeed naive and peculiar, sometimes even blunt. This was different from Yun Xiao''s initial impression of her.

    Initially, this Thunder Emissary Cao seemed like a venomous snake, cunning and deceitful, and too forward, which greatly annoyed Yun Xiao.

    "Lu Yao darling," Cao Shuo grabbed his cor again, her tone earnest, "Introduce me to the organization, please. I can¡¯t stand it anymore; I want to go somewhere I can be normal. I can¡¯t stand another day in this cursed Thunder Department!"

    "..." Yun Xiao was at a loss for words. After a moment, he said, "Don¡¯t rush, just keep up your performance, and the organization will seriously consider you based on that."

    "Really? That''s wonderful." Cao Shuo sighed with relief, then suggested, "Shall we elope first?"

    "Elope? Why? I still need to continue in the Thunder Department selection," Yun Xiao said, puzzled.

    Cao Shuo covered her face. "Sorry, you can¡¯t continue."

    "Why not?" Yun Xiao was confused. "With the Moon Sword Goddess, at least I could hold out in the Thunder Department for another half day."

    Cao Shuo chuckled sheepishly. "But there is no Moon Sword Goddess."

    "Weren¡¯t you just saying in public that the Moon Sword Goddess and the Western Kunlun Pce would protect me?" Yun Xiao eximed in shock.

    "I made that up. My senior sister heard you had ties with the Immortal Asylum and Divine Dawn, and she took the opportunity to flee, instructing me to find a way to sever ties with you gracefully." Cao Shuo sighed deeply. "In trying to save you, I''ve burned my bridges with her. Now, my only way out is to elope with you, to join the organization."

    Yun Xiao eximed in exasperation, "Damn it all."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 601: One Boy Taking on the Celestial Court Alone!

    Chapter 601: One Boy Taking on the Celestial Court Alone!

    After Yun Xiao had scolded Cao Shuo, a moment of realization struck him, and confusion followed swiftly.

    She had falsely dered a divine mandate for his sake, gambling both her future and fate.

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, this was no trifling matter!

    The affair of the Moon Sword Goddess couldn''t be concealed for long. Once exposed, she would be the target of collective wrath, be it from the Immortal Sword Court, Western Kunlun Pce, or Thunder Department, all would furiously deal with her!

    With these thoughts, Yun Xiao''s expression sobered. He stared deeply at this enchanting, bewitching woman and asked, "Why would you recklessly put yourself in such peril?"

    Cao Shuo curled a strand of her violet hair around her finger and replied, "I act for the thrill of it, following my desires without regard for the consequences, which don''t concern you!"

    "Very well." In his heart, Yun Xiao felt a surge of unexpected emotion. He had always thought she was a malicious woman who delighted in tormenting him. But he had misjudged her.

    At this moment, Cao Shuo was nothing but a love-struck warrior, her demeanor and poise ill-matching the brave heart willing to dive headlong into the mes for true love.

    He had expected a snake, only to find a bold, brazen bull. The contrast was stark!

    Indeed, after this heart-to-heart, Yun Xiao''s fondness for her soared.

    "You shouldn''t hesitate. Escape while you can. You can''t stay in the Thunder Department now," Cao Shuo urged hurriedly.

    Touched though he was, Yun Xiao shook his head firmly. "I will not leave."

    "Why not?" Cao Shuo eximed, her face a picture of exasperation.

    "To me, this part of the Thunder Department is the safest ce in the Celestial Court," Yun Xiao asserted seriously.

    "Safe, my foot! The lie I just told will unravel soon!" Cao Shuo, impulsive as ever, grasped his garment in frustration.

    "Then I shall take advantage of the time before it does, finish the remaining two matches, and climb the Thunder Rankings. Then, a promotion to Rank 6 will follow." Yun Xiao took her hands in his. "Once I gain the honor to represent the Thunder Department at the Divine Gateway, these Immortals won''t dare to touch me in public, right?"

    Gu Zhenxiao had previously dared to seize him and me the Sky Soaring City massacre on Yun Xiao because he was still a nobody.

    Once promoted to Rank 6, at least he would be protected by thews of heaven.

    "The problem is, surviving these next two final rounds will be no small feat. The risk is far too great," Cao Shuo said with a pained expression.

    "Don''t worry," Yun Xiao replied, unable to convince her, and with a sly lift of his eyebrows, he lied, "I have the backing of the organization. I can''t die. I need to be promoted to Rank 6 to infiltrate the enemy''s ranks."

    Cao Shuo was left speechless.

    "How powerful is this organization, really?" she probed.

    "Shh, it''s a secret," Yun Xiao nced at her, "At the very least, you''d only be considered mid-level within it."

    "That big? As vast as the Thunder Department?" Cao Shuo gasped, shocked. "A spark that has already kindled a wildfire? It seems there are not a few in the Celestial Court who share my convictions, merely obscured under dark clouds, all the fiery souls hiding their true selves."

    "Pretty much what you''re thinking. I''m just a sword the organization wields to pry open the gates of wickedness. Rest easy, my role is significant, and there are plenty secretly protecting me," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "And yetst night you pressured me to seek out my elder martial sister?" Cao Shuo asked skeptically.

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao blinked. "That was just me ying with you, caught up in the moment."

    "Go to hell, scoundrel," Cao Shuo snapped, biting her lip in anger.

    "The organization must remain hidden for now; indeed, we still need you maneuvering within it. So..." Yun Xiao leaned in close to her ear, "find a ce to hide within the Thunder Department. I''ll make myst stand at the Nine Thunders Arena, then we''ll meet up."

    "Alright!" Cao Shuo nodded deeply, her eyes misty as she gazed at Yun Xiao, advising him, "Be cautious in the remaining two fights. The opponent might be ipetent off the field, but they will surely resort to tricks on it."

    "Don''t worry! I''ll handle whateveres," Yun Xiao said confidently.

    "Just don''t be careless," Cao Shuo said sternly, her voice low. "Here¡¯s a heads up: Bai Ling''er is engaged to Feng Qi, who is among the top five Arbiters in the Thunder Department, a true genius with far greater strength than Bai Ling''er, and notably, a rare spiritual talent. His main lethality is in his spirit, his methods are bizarre and hard to defend against."

    "A spirit type Seed of Creation is indeed rare." Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Seed of Creation?"

    "That''s another way of saying Dao Seed Talent," Yun Xiao exined, pausing, "I''ll be cautious, but the selection for thebat sequence in the Thunder Department is all down to luck; it''s highly unlikely I''ll face him."

    "That''s not guaranteed. What if someone, seeking vengeance for a loved one, pressures my brother to arrange a duel to the death between you two?" Cao Shuo said earnestly.

    "True enough." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "You really must be wary of him. Don''t be careless. And should you gain the upper hand, do not kill him. He''s different from any opponent you''ve faced before," Cao Shuo cautioned.

    "Why is that?" asked Yun Xiao.

    "His father, Ster Margrave Feng, is a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, and he''s not from the Thunder Department. Any Rank 2 is a powerhouse in the Celestial Court, leading a n with countless followers. Behind him is a force several timesrger than the Thunder Department." Cao Shuo''s eyes were filled with worry.

    "Understood. You want me to avoidplications. I''ll just secure my ce for the Divine Gateway." Yun Xiao obediently nodded.

    "Exactly, good boy." Pleased, Cao Shuo reached out her delicate hand to touch his head, her slender, pale fingers trailing down across his chest, her gaze flirty and seductive.

    "Stop." Yun Xiao caught her wandering hand, pulling it from his embrace, and said sternly, "There''s no time left. I need to go back."

    "Come find me after the fight. Last night was unsatisfying, tonight I¡¯ll make you beg for mercy," Cao Shuo hummed.

    "Save it. You''re just a rookie. Wasted all these years," Yun Xiao scoffed with disdain, then, before Cao Shuo could retort, he turned and left, returning to the Nine Thunders Arena.

    "Hmph¡­" Cao Shuo''s violet eyes twinkled as she watched Yun Xiao disappear into the storm. Once he was gone, her yful demeanor shifted to deep worry.

    "This foolish boy, taking on the great scheme of the Celestial Court all by himself..." She bit her lip, her eyes slowly reddening. "In this world, to find such a child... it''s truly wonderful.

    "Well then, life''s fleeting mour, aimless and joyless,st night was perhaps the first time I truly felt alive. Since I''m thankful to you, I might as well risk my life to apany this gentleman!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After Yun Xiao temporarily departed, the Nine Thunders Arena, particrly the Celestial Thunder tform, fell into a deathly silence.

    Gu Zhenxiao, Yun Yin, Cao Sheng, and Bo Hong all bore gloomy expressions.

    "Something isn''t right," Yun Yin suddenly said.

    "What do you mean?" Gu Zhenxiao looked at him.

    The two, usually at odds, now stood united under the Thunder Department''s banner¡ªa unity forged whenever facing external threats.

    "I''ll send a flying talisman to the Moon Sword Goddess to verify," Yun Yin dered.

    "Oh?" Gu Zhenxiao¡¯s eyes flickered, and he quickly instructed Cao Sheng, "Order the temporary sealing of the Thunder Department. Prevent Cao Shuo and Lu Yao from leaving."

    "Understood!" Cao Sheng stood.

    Before he left, he bowed to Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General and said, "Supreme General Yun, regarding the battle sequence, I want to rify once again, I''ve tampered with nothing. The probability of both Bai children encountering Lu Yao was merely a coincidence."

    "Bai Duo¡¯s close protection couldn¡¯t save his daughter, no me falls on you," Yun Yin remarked.

    His statement didn¡¯t confirm Cao Sheng''s innocence; it rather indicated his desire to stay out of the feud between Cao Sheng and Bai Duo.

    Cao Sheng was helpless! Just as he had arranged for the sealing of the Thunder Department, two cyan shadows suddenly drifted in from afar.

    "Ster Margrave Feng!"

    All the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department, except for the two Supreme Generals, stood to greet the neer¡ªa middle-aged Immortal in a simple cyan robe, resembling a Daoist priest with unusually long eyebrows, giving him a profound and eerie presence. His eyes especially were devoid of whites, reced instead by deep cyan spirals.

    Despitecking the overt might of the Thunder Department''s Supreme Generals, there was something about him that sent shivers down the spine¡ªas if a mere nce could scatter one¡¯s soul!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 602: Spirit Possession!

    Chapter 602: Spirit Possession!

    Spirit Cultivators! These powerful cultivators focused on refining their spirits, emerging as a fourth major system beyond Martial Cultivators, Sword Cultivators, and Inscription Cultivators!

    They were also known as Anima Immortals!

    The Chaos Sovereign and Ster Margrave Feng Xuan both stood as top-tier Anima Immortals, their names echoing through the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    By Feng Xuan''s side stood the young man Feng Qi, a genius Anima Immortal who had once shocked the Thunder Department. In this sacrednd of thunder, he was unmatched under the age of 30!

    In fact, when the first round of the Thunder Department''s selection battlemenced, Feng Qi was the first to step forth!

    However, as the end neared, Feng Qi seemed a changed man. Now, he was dark, ruthless, his murderous aura overwhelming, like a tempestuous storm of the soul.

    All the Immortals of the Thunder Department knew the reason! His beloved, Bai Ling''er, was dead!

    It was clear that Feng Xuan and Feng Qi had just returned from seeing Bai Duo.

    And in this moment, Feng Qi remained heartbroken, furious, his sorrow tearing him apart."Cao Sheng. Did you arrange the battle sequence?" Feng Xuan, familiar with these 100 high officials of the Thunder Department, skipped any pleasantries and went straight to questioning Cao Sheng.

    "Yes!" Cao Sheng grimaced. He was about to defend himself, but he was cut off.

    "Set Lu Yao against the weakest opponent next, then pit him against my son in the final battle," Feng Xuan said.

    "..." Cao Sheng paused. This was a mistake Bai Duo had already suffered!

    Bai Ling''er had intended to surrender, her father''s overconfidence leading her to a needless death.

    Why would Feng Xuan, a man of such deep schemes, repeat this mistake?

    By now, everyone knew of the strange circumstances surrounding Lu Yao; no longer could he be simply deemed a simple genius. Even Gu Zhenxiao wanted to dissect the boy!

    But Cao Sheng dared not refuse. He turned to look at Gu Zhenxiao and Yun Yin, thetter seemingly closer to Feng Xuan, who softly asked, "Brother Feng, are you certain?"

    "Yes." Feng Xuan nced at Feng Qi. "The boy is haunted by a demon in his heart. If he avoids this life-or-death battle, it will follow him for the rest of his life."

    Hearing this, the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department could only sigh.

    The death of a beloved was a battle no man could retreat from! Even in the face of death, who could cower?

    In fact, if Yun Xiao were in the same situation, he would charge forward no matter the opponent.

    "May I have a word?" Yun Yin asked.

    Together with Feng Xuan, they stepped into a swirling mist of wind and clouds.

    Yun Yin looked at his old friend, speaking earnestly, "Lu Yao''s strength has unnaturally grown in each duel. It defiesmon sense. I understand Feng Qi''s desire for revenge; his talents and achievements are clear to all. But Lu Yao might be a reincarnator, not the actual person himself, perhaps even taken over by some Immortal master. This battle bodes more ill than good."

    "I''m aware," Feng Xuan replied with a coldugh. "Therefore, no matter who he ims to be, I shall meet him myself."

    Yun Yin raised an eyebrow. "You n to use spirit possession?"

    "Exactly." Feng Xuan nodded.

    "That settles it then," Yun Yin agreed.

    A deep, murderous intent shed in Feng Xuan''s stormy cyan eyes. "Even if the Immortal Sword Court insists on protecting him, I shall execute him first. If they merely wish to investigate this person, I can imprison his spirit for them to interrogate at leisure."

    "It might note to that," Yun Yin said softly. "I am currently using a flying talisman to consult with the Moon Sword Goddess. If Cao Shuo is behind this, there¡¯s no need for spirit possession; we can simply end this creature."

    "Cao Shuo would dare?" Feng Xuan''s voice was cold as ice.

    "This woman is a force unto herself; if she decides to die, no one can stop her," Yun Yin whispered.

    "Very well. Let''s see!"

    Whether the reply via talisman or the battles would conclude first was yet unknown.

    As the two spoke, the Nine Thunders Arena erupted once more.

    A wave of curses rose.

    "Lu Yao, you bastard!"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Roars of anger swept through. The arena was ruled by fury. The outrage in the Thunder Department, spurred by Bai Ling''er''s death, had reached its zenith.

    Under such explosive tension, the young man in white appeared serene and alone on the stage.

    The 1,000,000 Immortals of the Thunder Department feared he might never return!

    Of the 1,000,000 mouths, at least 800,000 were openly cursing him.

    "Traitor!"

    Having risen through the Thunder Department,peting in its selection, yet relying on the Immortal Sword Court... Just that was enough to cken his name.

    "Keep the cursesing; I still represent you at the Divine Gateway, aiming to bring honor." Yun Xiao never cared for the whispers of the insignificant.

    What he set out to do was never meant to be easily understood. He did what he had to, without seeking understanding.

    In Sky Soaring City, Liu Mumu caused a great uproar, the kind everyone knew about¡ªa scandal concerning the incense offerings.

    Did word about that reach the Thunder Department? No. Did it cause a stir in the Great Dao Celestial Realm? Not at all. Like always, it passed without a sound. This proved that in the Celestial Court, a mighty hand was silencing everyone.

    It also showed that the middle and lower tiers of the Immortals were detached from the disasters befalling the mortal realm; after all, they could not see them firsthand.

    Perhaps the only grievance of these folk was why did such fortunes always fall to the celestial nobility? Why never to them?

    So, Yun Xiao stood in the wind, watching those cursing around him, presenting a raw disy of humanity at its most fervent.

    The eighth round began.

    Few remained who could endure to this point.

    After eliminating those who had either mutually destroyed each other, broken rules, or withdrawn voluntarily, only 36 top talents of the Thunder Department remained.

    After the eighth round, 18 contestants would stand.

    After the final round, nine shining jewels of the Thunder Department would rise to Rank 6, ascend the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings, and represent the Thunder Department at the Divine Gateway¡¯s selection for the Immortal Tournament.

    That was the true finish line.

    The Thunder Rankings rang out once more.

    ¡¸<em>Lu Yao and He Buhuo, proceed to Thundercloud !</em>¡¹

    When Yun Xiao heard he was to fight first again, he knew. Whether or not the previous rounds had been manipted, now, he was clearly set up. Were thesest two rounds a path of life and death?

    As Yun Xiao stepped onto the arena and saw He Buhuo as his opponent, he understood.

    The eighth round was not it¡ªit was the final one that mattered.

    The enemy was magnanimous; he did not waste Yun Xiao''s time this round but had arranged for him to face a weaker opponent.

    He Buhuo was in the Mid Celestial Expanse Realm, weaker than Bai Ling''er and only slightly stronger than Bai Zijun.

    After making his entrance, the young man raised his hand and, with a smiling face, dered, "Lu Yao, the great genius, don¡¯t strike me, I surrender!"

    "Alright." Yun Xiao was already racing against the clock.

    After he surrendered, Yun Xiao left the thundercloud.

    "Wait!" He Buhuo, still smiling, called after Yun Xiao.

    "Something else?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Fuck you, I hope your blind old hag of a mother rots in hell with you!" He Buhuo cursed.

    Laughter erupted among the 1,000,000 Immortals of the Thunder Department, but then it was cut short by the swift sh of a sword light.

    He Buhuo¡¯s head was instantly turned to dust.

    All that remained was a headless corpse, still doubled over as ifughing!

    Swiftly, Yun Xiao retrieved his Sword Soul and continued on his way.

    "Lu Yao!!!"

    For a moment, the entire arena stared in shock, roars of anger filling the air.

    "He already surrendered, the fight was over, and yet you openlymitted murder! A million witnesses, you''ve broken the celestialws!"

    "Not even the Immortal Sword Court can protect you now!"

    "Execute him right now!"

    Thunderous roars pressed down like an avnche.

    Faced with the tsunami of curses, Yun Xiao''s lips curled slightly, "If you wish to judge me, you may, after I finish thest round. Perhaps then, I might represent you at the Divine Gateway and redeem myself through valor."

    "You!"

    Spitting sounds followed, as a great many, driven to fury, visibly spat blood.

    From atop the Celestial Thunder tform, Yun Yin coldly remarked, "This boy knows he''s being set up to fight Feng Qi to the death, he''spletely let loose, hasn¡¯t he?"

    Feng Xuan, his gaze hollow, responded, "Quite right, the atmosphere is set."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 603: Come Down And Join Your Beloved!

    Chapter 603: Come Down And Join Your Beloved!

    In the eighth round, Yun Xiao was the first to enter the fray.

    After his battle, there was still some time left, so Yun Xiao found a quiet corner. Under the icy gazes of the masses, he silently practiced the Primordial Void Technique, enhancing his spiritual and celestial power with the Origin Orbs and Tri Heaven Sariras.

    "Why is it that in the blink of an eye, so many despise you?" Blue Star asked, puzzled by the 1,000,000 furious res. "Is it because you''re so talented and arrogant?"

    "Their hatred isn''t for my abilities or my character," Yun Xiao said softly, his eyes closed in meditation.

    "What then?" Red Moon asked, his tongue lolling from his mouth, bored.

    "They hate that I am not one of their own and that I stand with the opposition," Yun Xiao exined.

    It meant that if he switched sides now, rejected the Moon Sword Goddess, and rejoined the Thunder Department, those 1,000,000 angry res would instantly transform into beams of honor.

    The truth was that simple. But those who truly despised Yun Xiao were the high officials of the Thunder Department and their progeny. Themon folk were merely led by the nose by their own interests.

    "Establishment Divine Self Realm."Soon, Yun Xiao reached the final stage of the Divine Self Realm. Though he had broken through, he felt a tinge of regret.

    "It seems difficult to reach the Celestial Expanse Realm before the final battle," Yun Xiao mused.

    Speaking of which, Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help butin, "You''re telling me after advancing only one realm, the 1,000,000 True Immortal Jades are all gone?"

    "Indeed, the path of Immortality consumes greatly, money flowing like water," Blue Star coughed.

    "Tell me, how much did you skim this time?" Yun Xiao asked, resigned.

    "Shush, we''re bros, don''t sweat the small stuff..." Blue Star sheepishly replied.

    "Get lost." While it pained him, Yun Xiao could do nothing but silently curse them as skinflints. "So, I have to give my all for this final battle."

    If Yun Xiao won, the skies and seas would be wide open to him. If he lost, he¡¯d blow up the Thunder Department and be a fugitive of the Celestial Court.

    It seemed he had nothing to lose!

    With this thought, Yun Xiao''s spirits lifted. So, even as he faced 1,000,000 cold stares and jeers, his heart remained undisturbed.

    When He Buhuo, unable to contain his scorn, came forth to insult Yun Xiao, his death sealed Yun Xiao''s reputation for disregarding the celestialws and regtions. His end naturally stirred greater waves of animosity!

    The question on everyone¡¯s lips was why wasn''t this man dead yet? Many were losing theirposure over it. They cursed and waited, and finally, the eighth round came to an end.

    The selection for the Thunder Department was reaching its climax, about to begin the final round!

    Yun Xiao''s antics had drawn an immense crowd; now, 1,500,000 Immortals from the Thunder Department packed into the arena, bringing the Nine Thunders Arena to its most tumultuous peak.

    The crowd was overwhelming!

    Cao Shuo, worried, disguised herself and blended in, unnoticed by anyone. In that dense crowd, she watched the young man in white at the center of the storm, her gaze filled with concern.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°How can he be so boldly defiant?¡± Cao Shuo couldn¡¯t understand it, but she found herself drawn to it. His personality and appearance struck directly at her heart, making it hard for her to look away.

    ¡°That bastard brother of mine, he must have tampered with thebat sequence.¡± Cao Shuo looked towards the Thunder Rankings, which now disyed only 18 golden names.

    The final round was about to disy the list ofbatants for the final round!

    Afterwards, each honored name would shine in the Nine Thunders Arena until the next selection.

    Everyone¡¯s eyes were fixed on the Thunder Rankings, hardly daring to breathe. Because it was a brutal elimination battle, the sequence ofbat was crucial!

    Suddenly, the Thunder Rankings rumbled, and two names in shining gold appeared on it.

    ¡¸<em>Feng Qi and Lu Yao, proceed to Thundercloud 1!</em>¡¹

    These two names stirred the crowd into an uproar. The former was regarded with respect and sympathy, thetter with disdain and trampling.

    History showed that only the good and the wicked left their names behind; the mediocre were just making up the numbers.

    ¡°Lu Yao has been the first to battle since the seventh round!¡±

    What did this mean?

    Everyone understood.

    This young man was being set up by the high officials!

    And the high officials were blunt about it, openly admitting they had orchestrated it!

    This sent a clear message to the people of the Thunder Department; the high officials hadpletely abandoned Lu Yao! Once this was understood, who would hold back their jeers?

    "Thundercloud 1!"

    Each battle melded two thunderclouds together, making Thundercloud 1 now impressivelyrge!

    From the seventh round, Yun Xiao had dominated this stage.

    Even up to this moment, the roiling thundercloud, like a miniature sea of lightning, surged with endless electricity, its cracking sounds assaulting the ears!

    Millions of eyes were focused on this thundercloud, including from the Celestial Thunder tform, where the gaze of one was as heavy as 100,000 others.

    In such a moment, anyone with lesser mental fortitude stepping into this ce would likely find themselves kneeling.

    However, the moment the battle sequence was announced, a sh of white sword light shone brilliantly, as if to say to all, "Don''t waste my time, let''s finish this quickly!"

    This person was Yun Xiao.

    As Feng Xuan had said, no more buildup was necessary¡ªthe atmosphere was already explosive!

    Upon his entry, Yun Xiao held his three-foot azure sword, his face wearing a carefree smile. The youth held a jug of wine, took a hearty swig, and then with his sword pointed towards the Celestial Thunder tform, he loudly dered, "Feng Qi,e down and join your beloved!"

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Atop the Celestial Thunder tform, a storm of thunder serpents roared to life, a cyan light like a tornado howling down onto Thundercloud 1.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Wind and electricity wildly danced around him.

    The young man before Yun Xiao lifted his head, the cyan vortexes in his eyes already blood-red.

    A fire of hatred that could not be shared under the same sky!

    His spiritual power was now uncontroble, forming a vortex more than 30 meters in diameter behind him, swirling with spiritual des and lightning snakes!

    All this divine might was proof that he was a supremely talented and powerful Anima Immortal with a boundless future!

    For the Thunder Department, Feng Qi was an absolute necessity, far more reliable than Bai Ling''er.

    In the Celestial Court, it was well known that among the four major Immortal systems¡ªmartial, sword, sigil, and spirit¡ªAnima Immortals were often the strongest at the same level!

    This was because, at stages where the spirit was weak, the Anima Immortal''s ability to damage and restrict the manifestation of the spirit was hard to counter!

    Spirit killing was often faster than a Flying Sword!

    At that moment, Feng Qi spread his arms wide, conjuring a soul storm of immense fury. The storm''s power resonated with the stinging thunder, creating a peculiar sound that made everyone''s scalp tingle!

    Fueled by rage and hatred, he reached the apex of his killing intent.

    Without uttering a word, his body swirled with a vortex of cyan lightning, bearing down on Yun Xiao!

    "Spirit type Seed of Creation, Cyan Burst Lightning Spirit," Blue Star remarked.

    This Seed of Creation was unique to Feng Qi''s spirit, quite different from the Nine Suns Dantian or the Nine Heavens Star Meridians.

    Within the fierce storm unleashed by his opponent, Yun Xiao could sense the potency of the Cyan Burst Lightning Spirit, a talent that allowed Feng Qi¡¯s spirit to manifest in more ways, elevating him to the rank of an Anima Immortal.

    "But why doesn''t he manifest his spirit before attacking?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    In truth, an Anima Immortal could attack without manifesting their spirit, though it would diminish the strength of the attack.

    Facing such an unfamiliar and powerful adversary in this critical battle, Yun Xiao dared not take any chances!

    As the opponent pressed with a fierce attack, Yun Xiao countered just as fiercely!

    <em>Ascend the Heavens, Frostfall!</em>

    This was a Flying Sword technique, named after the seasonal frost. Itbined thunder and frost in a single strike, like a sudden descent of heavenly frost. When unleashed, the sword froze everything in its path, while thunderbolts and icy sts mingled for a fiercely cold assault!

    Beneath this Frostfall, there was another sword¡ªthe sword of Yun Xiao''s manifested spirit!

    This phantom Frostfall also replicated the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, sending forth a spirit-charged Flying Sword!

    With one sword above and one below, the twin swords formed a dual assault on both flesh and spirit!

    Of course, Yun Xiao had modified these twin swords with many of his own ideas, making Frostfall even more formidable. What was merely a Flying Sword seemed like a whole realm of ice and snow, engulfing Feng Qi!

    "Die." Feng Qi fixed his gaze on him! He showed no reaction to Yun Xiao''s sword, focusing solely on his own anima techniques.

    He stirred up a storm of cyan wind and thunder, drawing on his spirit power to condense the swirling cyan vortex behind him into a colossal lightning eye!

    This was the anima technique Wind God Lightning Eye!

    Supported by a stronger celestial power, the Wind God Lightning Eye was even more formidable than Yun Xiao''s Frostfall. As it advanced, it blinked repeatedly, each blink unleashing a storm of electric bursts infused with overpowering spiritual waves, causing everyone who heard it to wince in pain!

    In an instant, this Wind God Lightning Eye swallowed Yun Xiao''s Frostfall, suppressing the icy electric assault of the Flying Sword!

    The Flying Sword struggled as it moved through the Wind God Lightning Eye, which was amplified with spiritual power.

    "Hmm?"

    In their first confrontation, Yun Xiao noticed that the Flying Sword replicated by spirit disintegrated fastest under the Anima Immortal''s attack.

    The mere touch shattered the sword''s shadow, and Yun Xiao''s manifested spirit felt a sharp pain!

    This was the formidable power of an Anima Immortal!

    Fortunately, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul''s attack wasn''tpletely suppressed. It pierced through the Wind God Lightning Eye and struck close to Feng Qi!

    But he was not afraid! His fierce gaze seemed to challenge Yun Xiao¡ªlet''s see who dies first!

    Indeed, Feng Qi''s Wind God Lightning Eye, undiminished in the slightest, burst forth like a that could blot out the sun, shing right before Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes!

    Anima Immortal or Sword Immortal, both were aggressors!

    Who would die first?

    Feng Qi was ferocious, but Yun Xiao remained calm throughout. He entered a cold state ofbat readiness. Facing the Wind God Lightning Eye, he stepped back with elegance while an umbre sprouted from his hand, its spokes formed from nine dragon heads!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>With a flick of his wrist, the Runic Umbre began to spin.

    The Prison Warden Sigil also had an effect on the spiritual level.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Wind God Lightning Eye exploded on the umbre, tearing the unprotected Life Sigil to shreds on the spot and forcing Yun Xiao to keep retreating!

    These stormy sts of cyan electricity tore at the Creator Immortal''s spirit, inflicting damage on Yun Xiao!

    This strike showcased Feng Qi''s genius!

 Chapter 604: Spirited Away!

    Chapter 604: Spirited Away!

    However, this was not enough to kill Yun Xiao.

    "To force an Anima Immortal to cease, one must y him with even greater speed!"

    As Yun Xiao retreated, his gaze suddenly turned icy!

    The Heaven Burial Sword Soul, previously circling above, abruptly changed course. It skimmed across the air like a stone across water, elerating twice before exploding towards the oing storm!

    At the same time, lightning coiled around him, and the fragmented Runic Umbre transformed into the Prison Warden Dao Dragon, wrapping around his body, bolstering Yun Xiao¡¯s magic.

    "Misty Rebirth, Midnight yer!"

    Yun Xiao gestured, summoning a ghastly pale sphere of celestial lightning at his feet. It furiously absorbed the power from the Thunder Department, swelling in size to over 300 meters in diameter in an instant!

    "Hmm?!" Just as Feng Qi was about to obliterate Yun Xiao, his face drastically changed!

    Above, the Flying Sword was plunging down with deadly force! Below, the spherical lightning roared towards him! It was a two-pronged attack."I can''t avoid this. Death is certain!" Feng Qi quickly realized. In the moment that followed, instead of sadness or fear, his expression grew even more hateful and ferocious. He growled, "Father, it¡¯s your turn!"

    No one else could hear him!

    The spectators witnessing the scene, as Feng Qi faced deadly peril from above and below, were struck with terror.

    "No!"

    No one could ept that Feng Qi was being openly defeated by Yun Xiao! An outsider, stepping over the top genius of the Thunder Department, and ascending to Rank 6?

    It was utterly intolerable! Yet, no matter how intolerable, in the brief sh of lightning, the peril Feng Qi faced left them utterly breathless.

    "Don¡¯t lose!!"

    In that moment, countless onlookers nearly cried out, voicing their collective wish!

    Just then, Feng Qi''s eyes suddenly changed, from furious and hateful to detached and exalted!

    His spirit, from beginning to end, had not been visible to the onlookers. A figure simr in form to him but infinitely more solid and corporeal appeared!

    Two spirits, onerge and one small, merged in an instant through their shared lineage.

    When the new spirit opened its eyes, the energy of the battlefield surged tenfold!

    Feng Qi was transformed, his demeanor now formidable.

    "Child''s y." He scoffed coldly, his left hand casting forth a storm of cyan spiritual lightning that clutched at Yun Xiao''s lethal Flying Sword, as if seizing Yun Xiao by the throat!

    With a press of his right hand, the zing sphere of lightning that hurtled towards him burst prematurely, exploding into a radiant storm of electricity that roared around him, creating a wild tempest that, nevertheless, left him unscathed!

    With thunderous ease, what should have been a deadly moment for him turned into a disy of effortless grace, as he broke Yun Xiao''s lethal double assault.

    This spectacle whipped millions from the Thunder Department into an incredulous frenzy.

    "Feng Qi!!"

    Their cheers shook the Heavenly Land of the Thunder Department.

    "He¡¯s incredible!"

    What seemed a certain demise turned into an easy resolution. Who could have guessed?

    For a moment, the spectators were ecstatic.

    "Kill Lu Yao!"

    The cries for battle rolled like waves.

    Now it was clear who was stronger.

    On the Celestial Thunder tform, many high officials were stunned into silence, their attention abruptly shifting.

    "Feng Qi has..."

    All of them turned to look at a distinguished guest.

    There sat Ster Margrave Feng Xuan, nked by the two Supreme Generals, his eyes closed, his body lying back, wrapped in dense cyan spiritual lightning.

    Cao Sheng recalled a terrifying technique, whispering in awe, "Spirit possession, killing by proxy?"

    "Shush." Gu Zhenxiao gestured for silence.

    "Indeed..." Cao Sheng bowed deeply, then sneered at the young man in white, "A Rank 2 Heavenly Officer personally opposes you, and you still dream of rising to Rank 6?"

    "He has the skill to reach the heavens. If only he had a good mind, stayed humble, climbing the Thunder Rankings wouldn¡¯t be an issue, and we could benefit from his light... s," Gu Suwan could only sigh for Yun Xiao.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In the dense crowd below, Cao Shuo also witnessed the scene.

    "What''s happening? Feng Qi suddenly became terrifying..." Shecked the insight of Cao Sheng, utterly blind to the profound strategy at y.

    Within the Nine Thunders Arena, almost everyone was just like her!

    In an instant, the tide of battle reversed!

    With a sizzling roar, Feng Qi suddenly spread his arms wide, and the lightning across the entirety of Thundercloud 1 spiraled into a frenzied state, as if endowed with a soul by him, turning into celestial fish under hismand.

    He soared into the air, his hair flying wildly, his invisible spirit vast as the heavens itself, pressing down on Yun Xiao, suffocating himpletely.

    Only Yun Xiao knew the terrifying extent to which his opponent had transformed.

    "This is not Feng Qi, this is Feng Xuan!" Yun Xiao said with a frown and a cold tone.

    "You guessed right, his father''s spirit has descended, attaching to his own," Blue Star quipped.

    "The young one can¡¯t beat me, so the old one steps in, it¡¯s outright bullying!" Yun Xiao eximed.

    The spirit-destroying pressure was immense, forcing Yun Xiao to immediately retract his spirit back into his Dantian. Even there, it trembled fiercely.

    "The fight has be unfair, what to do?" Yun Xiao gritted his teeth.

    "Then we y unfair too!" Blue Star replied with a coldugh.

    "How so!"

    "Taunt them! Provoke him!" Blue Star suggested.

    "So he¡¯ll refrain from killing me in one strike, preferring to torment me forever?" Yun Xiao said coldly.

    "Exactly! Lure their spirit into your Dantian, and capture it!" Blue Star instructed.

    "Then it''s up to you!"

    A million True Immortal Jades had been consumed, and now, they truly proved their worth!

    Yun Xiao thought about using the Thunder Immortal Formation. But he wasn''t willing to be a fugitive of the Celestial Court just yet. He gambled on another chance.

    So, Yun Xiao stared fiercely at Feng Qi, pressing towards him, and whispered hauntingly, "Did you see clearly when my sword pierced through Bai Ling''er''s head, her face twisted in pain, despair, and disbelief as she died?"

    "Shut up!" Feng Qi''s already cold gaze reddened with blood once more.

    "The irony is, you, the so-called top talent of the Thunder Department, couldn''t even protect the woman you love. Even if you kill me, what of it? She is dead, utterly obliterated," Yun Xiao finished, bursting intoughter.

    Feng Qi clenched his fists tight, his eyes swirling with blood. Suppressing his urge to kill, he exhaled all his murderous intent. Perhaps reminded by his father, he had made his decision.

    "Lu Yao, let me tell you the truth, you won¡¯t die a quick death!" As Feng Qi spoke, a terrifying force of spiritual power pressed towards Yun Xiao.

    Faintly, Yun Xiao could hear Feng Qi''s spirit howling savagely, "I will torment your spirit for eternity, pierce your heart with a thousand swords, you shall not die a peaceful death!!!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Into Yun Xiao¡¯s Dantian, which glowed with the light of nine suns, burst a spirit with wild hair and entwined in cyan lightning!

    This fused spirit, both old and young at once, possessed both Feng Qi''s towering rage and Feng Xuan¡¯s disdain and cold detachment!

    Compared to Yun Xiao¡¯s pale and tender youthful spirit, this dual Cyan Burst Lightning Spirit was a hundred times more formidable in both cultivation and spirit power!

    It was likeparing an egg to steel!

    And now, this steel hammer was fixed firmly on Yun Xiao¡¯s egg-like youthful spirit!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The figure opened its arms, wrapped in cyan lightning, and reached for Yun Xiao¡¯s tender spirit!

    Merely controlling this spirit would mean Yun Xiao''s defeat, reduced to nothing but flesh and blood!

    "Hahaha¡­" At this moment, father and son emitted augh mixed with rage and disdain.

    And before this spirit, Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit trembled violently!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The fused spirit pressed down!

    In a sh, a ck bronze coffin suddenly appeared within the Dantian, its lid mming down, its body enveloping, instantly trapping the fused spirit inside.

    "What is this?!"

    The coffin vibrated explosively, cyan lightning shooting out, filled with Feng Xuan¡¯s furious voice!

    "You cane in here too?" Yun Xiao was stunned.

    From the lid of the coffin, Blue Star screamed, "Stop yapping and sit down, refine them!"

    Hearing this bizarre shout, Yun Xiao knew that each moment they suppressed the enemy, they were burning through True Immortal Jades!

    Who knew how long it wouldst!

    Without a second word, Yun Xiao¡¯s youthful spirit threw itself onto the coffin lid, being bombarded by brutal cyan lightning, crying out in pain, "How do I refine them?!"

    Suddenly, a dense script appeared on the lid of the coffin!

    Yun Xiao looked closely!

    ¡¸<em>Buddha''s Treasure Art</em>¡¹

    Without a doubt, this was a power that stood equal to the Primordial Void Technique, Will of Divine Destion, and the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity!

    When Yun Xiao saw these golden characters, for some reason, his heart suddenly calmed...

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Why isn¡¯t there any movement now?"

    Outside, everyone watched thebatants in Thundercloud 1.

    More and more people fell into confusion.

    The storm of thunder on the battlefield gradually dissipated!

    Both young men appeared as if they were asleep, devoid of any trace of celestial power.

    "Are they engaged in a battle of spirits?"

    Quickly, everyone guessed the truth.

    "So, this Lu Yao is truly doomed."

    "Yes, it seems Feng Qi doesn''t want to kill him but to seek a lifelong revenge!"

    "Now that¡¯s satisfying!"

    As the news spread, those who had been puzzled now felt a sense of relief.

    So, more and more people joined in theughter, the atmosphere in the Nine Thunders Arena seemed more harmonious than ever before.

    Time ticked by, moment by moment.

    Then after a quarter of an hour, something seemed to stir!

    Millions of gazes focused intently.

    People¡¯s eyes widened, slowly turning to shock.

    "Ah!!"

    Everyone clearly saw Feng Qi¡¯s body, suddenly like a kite with its string cut, falling from the sky!

    "No, no, no..."

    How could this be?

    The faces of the spectators twisted in disbelief.

    On the Celestial Thunder tform, all the high officials of the Thunder Department stood up simultaneously, incredulously watching the unfolding scene.

    "Brother Feng, what went wrong..." Yun Yin said this while turning back.

    The others also hurriedly looked towards Feng Xuan.

    At some point, the cyan lightning that had entwined this refined daoist had disappeared.

    <em>THUD! </em>Suddenly, his head lolled to one side, his eyes rolled back, and he copsed onto his seat. Then, his body, like a boneless eel, slid limply down to the floor...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 605: Buddhas Treasure Spirit

    Chapter 605: Buddha''s Treasure Spirit

    "Atst, he''s settled down." Yun Xiao murmured softly. Through the eyes of the spirit within his Dantian, he looked down at the dark bronze coffin beneath him.

    "After being refined by Buddha''s Treasure Art, both father and son have ascended to the heavens," Blue Star snickered.

    "Buddha''s Treasure..." Yun Xiao muttered to himself, these words now ingrained in the core of his spirit.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "The Creator Immortal crafted this dao realm; in this nascent universe of chaos, at the very moment of inception, a consciousness was born, named ya.

    "ya is the amalgamation of innate nature and delusion, the vessel for all seeds of good and evil. It once followed the Creator Immortal, witnessing the birth and evolution of the cosmos, always by the Creator Immortal''s side. ya ventured into the mortal world on behalf of the Creator Immortal, understanding beings, and could be called the ancestor of the spiritual consciousness of all things."

    After the fall of the Creator Immortal and the rise of the Six Ancestral Gods, ya had be Ancestor ya, also known as the Treasure Buddha. It was the most unique among the Six Ancestral Gods, neithering nor going, neither being born nor dying, and neither appearing nor hiding away.

    "Intention creates connection, giving rise to the realm of consciousness. Where there are none of these three, then intention arises and connects with the realm of intention. None of these are due to causation or natural states..."

    Yun Xiao slowly recited the doctrines of Buddha''s Treasure Art. Within the vacant eyes of his spirit form, two golden circles emerged. They were profound and divine, solemn and reaching beyond.

    <em>BANG! </em>The dark bronze coffin opened. Arge and a small wisp of cyan smoke rose, ethereally entering the golden circles within Yun Xiao''s eyes."All beings possess Buddha''s Treasure, with notions of good and evil, greed, wrath, foolishness¡­ the seven emotions and six desires all contained within. Ancestor ya, or the Treasure Buddha, holds the greatest Buddha''s Treasure in the dao realm, the starting point of all human and natural traits. It gave rise to the thoughts of living beings. ya is the cycle and hub of the thoughts of all beings..." Blue Star said.

    In essence, there existed an Ancestral God who absorbed the thoughts of humanity, nature, and all things, and also released them all.

    "By this ount, what I seek to study in this life is merely the thoughts of beings derived from an Ancestral God?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "You overestimate ya. It''s simply a repository of consciousness and thoughts, the root of good and evil, merely a tool of the Dao. The thoughts of beings have evolved far beyond anything else by now. It can ept and release them, but it cannot control the thoughts of beings. To put it simply, it''s just a creature who uses the Buddha''s Treasure Arts to absorb the <em>treasures</em> of beings after their deaths, thereby enriching and enhancing its own spirit," Blue Star said disdainfully.

    Blue Star scorned Ancestor ya, much like he would deride the Primordial Immortal Ancestor as a sycophant lovestruck maid or the Divine Destion Demon God as merely a gatekeeper.

    Blue Star could afford such disdain, but Yun Xiao dared not, for he knew that aside from the Creator Immortal, these Six Ancestral Gods were the end all be all of the dao realm.

    "What use is there in absorbing their Buddha''s Treasures?" Yun Xiao pondered as he felt the power of the golden circles in his eyes, his spirit simultaneously absorbing and digesting the essences of Feng Xuan and Feng Qi.

    Yun Xiao first absorbed the Buddha''s Treasures. Then, he went after their Seeds of Creation.

    The Cyan Burst Lightning Spirit was a straightforward Seed of Creation. It was simr to a talent enhancing pill, fortifying Yun Xiao''s spirit and allowing him to handle more powerful spiritual power. It also wreathed his spirit lightning, enhancing his killing power!

    But after swallowing the Buddha''s Treasures of the father-son duo, it seemed as if nothing had happened.

    "A Buddha''s Treasure is the container of all human thoughts. It assimtes good for good and evil for evil. The more you refine, the more you be the embodiment of all living beings, gaining insight from their thoughts and enhancing your Worldly Dao Heart. Most crucially, by mastering it, you might rece ya, bing the true hub of the cycle of beings¡¯ thoughts, the endpoint and origin of all living spirits. This growth and transformation, while not as visible as that of the Seed of Creation, y a more fundamental role in nurturing and transforming your spirit power," Blue Star exined.

    "Uh huh..." Yun Xiao nodded as he immersed himself in these subtle changes. "This miraculous sensation reminds me of a word.¡±

    "What?" Blue Star asked.

    "Liberation!" Yun Xiao dered, then silently reflected, "I am absorbing their thoughts and allowing their spirits to dissipate in peace, essentially liberating them towards rebirth. By umting virtue and thoughts through liberation, I myself be the central hub of the naturalws and thoughts of the world."

    "Something like that," Blue Star agreed.

    "Right." Remembering the massacre at Sky Soaring City, Yun Xiao added, "My Sword Devil Form can absorb the malevolent thoughts of beings, temporarily boosting my battle strength. How different is that from using Buddha''s Treasures to absorb the thoughts of all things?"

    "There¡¯s a fundamental difference. The Sword Devil Form feeds on the malignant energy born from evil. In contrast, the refining of Buddha''s Treasures involves the very essence of a person¡¯s thoughts, epassing good and evil, desires, obsessions, sophistry¡­ It forms all aspects of a person¡¯s and object¡¯s nature!"

    At first, Yun Xiao found the concepts profoundlyplex, but he gradually began to understand them.

    Undoubtedly, this path aligned perfectly with his Worldly Dao Heart.

    "The spirit and the heart, once on the same path, would hereafterplement and promote each other with ease."

    This understandingid a crucial foundation for the fierce breakthroughs of Yun Xiao''s Genesis Spirit and Dao Heart in the future.

    With a deep exhale, Yun Xiao''s childlike spirit released a breath, his spirit''s golden eyes appearing calmer and more profound.

    The flickering azure lightning around him was the sharpness of his spirit.

    The Buddha''s Treasure formed the essence, and the Seed of Creation shaped it!

    With closed eyes, Yun Xiao could faintly perceive the lifetime thoughts of the father and son.

    Love, hatred, ambition, pride, brutality, hypocrisy¡­ As Yun Xiao immersed himself in these emotions, he seemed to transform into them, altering his very demeanor.

    "To assimte good for good, evil for evil, to liberate you, is to fulfill my true self," Yun Xiao muttered. The phrase encapsted everything about his new path!

    "The Divine Destion Physique and the Mortal Dust Devil blood are external; from today onwards, my true self alone bears both the Primordial Void Technique and Buddha''s Treasure Art, two paths that ascend to the heavens!"

    Undoubtedly, his true self was overwhelmingly powerful.

    The earlier Primordial Martial Furnace was merely aplement to the Primordial Void Technique. Although it transcended the mundane, it certainly did notpare to the Divine Destion Physique.

    The Buddha''s Treasure Art was truly a path that could rival the foundation of the Primordial Void!

    "From now on, my spirit truly sets sail!" Yun Xiao suppressed the thoughts of Feng Xuan and his son, and with a fierce determination, he flung open his eyes, his mind stormy with thoughts.

    "Feng Xuan was a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, a bigshot in his own right. Now that he''s died here, how are we going to deal with this?" Red Moon asked. He waspletely lost when it came to the doctrines of the Buddha''s Treasure Art. So, he shifted the topic to more practical matters.

    "He tried to cheat with a sneak attack and met an untimely death. I killed him in secret. If this bes public, the shame will be his own!" Yun Xiao sneered.

    "Even if it were made public, no one would believe it." Blue Star chuckled.

    To put it inly, a dignified Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, shifting his spirit to champion his son, capsized in the gutter and lost his life in the process, a situation truly worthy of ridicule.

    It was as absurd as a strong man bullying children in a kindergarten only to be in by the toddlers.

    The irony was, this happened during the Thunder Department selection, where he secretly tried to assist his son!

    It was trulyughable!

    When Yun Xiao opened his eyes, it was precisely the moment the body of Feng Qi dropped out of the air and onto the ground.

    For a moment, waves of disbelief and heart-wrenching screams spread across the Nine Thunders Arena.

    The spectators looked at Yun Xiao, their gazes filled with anguish, as if his sword had pierced through each of their faces!

    "It can''t be..."

    There were still those who couldn''t believe what they had witnessed!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Just then, the Thunder Rankings erupted with a deafening thunderp. Colored lightning fiercely danced across it, and ultimately, a ring colorful name congealed upon it.

    ¡¸<em>Lu Yao</em>¡¹

    Yun Xiao had done it! He had made the name of a passionate, dream-chasing youth shine with the most brilliant light in the Celestial Court, on the most important stage for any Arbiter!

    With Lu Yao''s name immortalized on the Thunder Rankings, all was settled!

 Chapter 606: Congratulations, General Cao!

    Chapter 606: Congrattions, General Cao!

    In the battle that decided fate, even though it was hard for the 1,500,000 Immortals to ept, reality had etched its verdict in stone.

    The colorful lightning serpents of the Thunder Rankings struck as if cleaving the very minds of these spectators, frying their brains into charred mush!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    At this moment, truly, many were so aggrieved they spat blood, their chests near bursting with fury.

    After a brief silence, a more intense barrage of curses erupted from hysterical mouths, as if only through their vitriol could they alleviate the embarrassment.

    "Exhrating!" Yun Xiao, alone against this earth-shaking tirade, tingled with a perverse delight.

    He wasn''t asking for abuse, but the sight of 1,500,000 people hating him yet powerless to harm him was secretly thrilling.

    "Has the other side not acted yet?" Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed, turning towards the Celestial Thunder tform.

    Above, the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department stood like wooden stakes, their souls seemingly scattered to the winds.

    This was the most inconceivable event of their lives!"Dead, dead..." Cao Sheng and Bo Hong were so frightened their hearts nearly tore apart.

    Ster Margrave Feng Xuan, a Rank 2 Anima Immortal renowned throughout the Heavenly Land had shifted his spirit and then perished?! Those who knew the details nearly burst their galldders.

    "The Supreme Generals..." With ashen faces and hoarse voices, Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan looked to Gu Zhenxiao and Yun Xin, asking, "Is Ster Margrave Feng ying a joke on us..."

    Then, Cao Sheng immediately felt like a fool for asking the question. He nced over at Lu Yao''s name projected on the Thunder Rankings. That and the death of Feng Qi already spoke volumes.

    Gu Zhenxiao stood right beside where Feng Xuan had fallen. He clenched his fists, his eyelids twitching madly as sweat poured down in torrents.

    "All members of the Thunder Department present, you must not speak of what you''ve seen here today!"

    With these words, Gu Zhenxiao turned and stared them down, making it clear to everyone that Feng Xuan truly was dead.

    Once that fact was confirmed, the hearts of all the high officials pounded furiously, leaving them gasping for breath.

    "Lu Yao killed Ster Margrave Feng..." Gu Suwan remembered the harmless little boy she first met... Until just moments ago, she thought she could control him! Now, she didn''t even dare to look back at that young man!

    The high officials fell into a deathly silence for a good ten breaths, no one daring to speak.

    Finally, Cao Sheng couldn''t hold back, his voice trembling, "Supreme Generals, this matter is too grave, it has pierced the heavens, surely there''s a deeper plot. Shouldn''t we act now?"

    After speaking, Cao Sheng looked back at the young man who faced 1,000,000 curses with a satisfied smile. His eyes were cold, but his heart was deeply troubled.

    "Don''t do anything rash." Yun Yin bit down hard, saying, "This boy is not merely a genius; he''s an old monster at our level. There are but a few in the Celestial Court capable of killing a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer."

    Cao Sheng and Bo Hong, along with others, were shocked. "Were we all deceived?"

    "What do you suggest we do?" Gu Zhenxiao looked at Yun Yin.

    Yun Yin pursed his lips. "With the sacrifice of a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, this matter has exceeded the scope of the Thunder Department selection. We must immediately report to the Chaos Sovereign and the Nine Thunders Sovereign, and keep an eye on Lu Yao''s movements."

    Hearing this, everyone knew there was no other way. With the death of Feng Xuan, the issue was too significant; they didn''t dare to make a move.

    "Furthermore, do not spread the cause of Feng Xuan''s death to anyone, or face severe punishment!" Yun Yin''s voice was icy.

    "Yes!"

    All the high officials nodded hurriedly. Then another silence fell.

    After some thought, Gu Suwan asked, "Once the Thunder Department selection isplete, and if Lu Yao really represents the Thunder Department topete at the Immortal Tournament, what then?"

    Yun Yin sneered, "That''s a hot potato; let him handle it. What kind of ce is the Divine Gateway? No matter what kind of fiend he is, going there is walking into his own death."

    "Indeed."

    To tell the truth, Yun Xiao really frightened all the high officials this time. They were so scared, they were eager to shake him off.

    Carrying the life of a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer on his back, who would dare to touch him? But if they his trail, it would be a grave offense.

    "Cao Sheng!" Gu Zhenxiao suddenly called out coldly.

    "Supreme General." The burly bald man slightly bowed, his eyes uncertain.

    Gu Zhenxiao produced a tinum token engraved with the number six. Each stroke formed either a dragon''s head or its body.

    "Rank 6 Celestial Mirror."

    Upon seeing this, Cao Sheng identified the object. Though it conferred no specific office, it granted the owner the status of a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer. It would make themparable to a Judicial Immortal governing an entire city!

    Before the age of 30, reaching Rank 6 was as high as one could aspire in terms of official rank in the Celestial Court.

    "Bestow it upon him," Gu Zhenxiaomanded.

    "Are we really going to elevate him to Rank 6?" Cao Sheng frowned.

    Wouldn''t this young upstart be even more insolent?

    "Until the Nine Thunders Sovereign responds, we follow the rules," Gu Zhenxiao stated.

    "Yes!" Cao Sheng took the tinum token and descended, his body wrapped in surging electric serpents, heading towards Yun Xiao.

    "It''s General Cao!"

    "Will he execute Lu Yao?"

    "Justice over kin!"

    The crowd was still unaware of the death of Feng Xuan, holding on to their hopeful thoughts.

    With all eyes upon him, the towering, solemn, and imposing Thunder Duke Cao Sheng approached Yun Xiao. The small serpents coiled around his ears fixed their gaze on him, flicking their tongues.

    At that moment, the Nine Thunders Arena quieted down.

    Everyone watched the former father and son.

    Yun Xiao also looked up, his expression calm as he faced the awe-inspiring General Cao.

    Yun Xiao had just employed the signature techniques of both General Cao and his wife!

    "Lu Yao!" Cao Sheng extended his hand, holding out the Rank 6 Celestial Mirror, and the expectant crowd nearly suffered aneurysms. Ignoring their cries, he presented the tinum token to Yun Xiao, dering loudly, "From this moment forth, you are a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer!"

    "My thanks to the Celestial Court and all the Immortals of the Thunder Department!" Yun Xiao epted the tinum token willingly.

    "From now on, lead with integrity and contribute to the Celestial Court!" Cao Sheng said.

    "I will devote myself to the Celestial Court, to toil withoutint, until death!" Yun Xiao dered boldly.

    "Hmm." Cao Sheng gave him a deep look, preferring to say no more, and turned away.

    "Wait!" Yun Xiao suddenly called out, stopping him in his tracks.

    "What is it?" Cao Sheng turned around.

    In front of everyone, Yun Xiao spoke fervently, "After the appearance of the Moon Sword Goddess, I believe there has been some misunderstandings. The honor I have today is all thanks to the opportunities given by the Thunder Department. I am grateful for the Thunder Department.

    "But not only that, I am grateful to you. Thank you, General Cao. Last night, in a fit of anger, you disowned me as your son, but today, I seize this chance to remind you, General Cao, that once a father, always a father. I have never forgotten your kindness.

    "Today, as I finally ascend the Thunder Rankings, I wish to dere that in life, I am a man of the Thunder Department, and in death, I shall be its spirit. I swear, holding this Rank 6 Celestial Mirror, I still represent the Thunder Department in the Immortal Tournament at the Divine Gateway. Should I show any merit, the honor shall return to the sacrednd of the Thunder Department, to everyone present here!"

    "..." Cao Sheng was dumbstruck as he listened to Yun Xiao, wishing he could tear this boy''s mouth apart right there.

    It was toote! He had just disowned Yun Xiao, and now this infuriating fellow was clinging back to him!

    What could he, Cao Sheng, possibly say at such a moment? Having loudly proimed the night before that he had kicked Yun Xiao out, it all seemed in vain now!

    "Surely no one will believe this, right?" Cao Sheng had a foreboding feeling and looked back.

    To his surprise, many of the 1,500,000 Immortals of the Thunder Department were nearly moved to tears by Yun Xiao''s deration.

    So this brash young man still sought glory for the Thunder Department? Their earlier insults now seemed terribly unjust! His passionate speech weighed heavily on everyone present.

    Then, in the silence that followed, someone started shouting Lu Yao''s name!

    "Lu Yao! Lu Yao!"

    Soon, this reverent cheer filled the Nine Thunders Arena, echoing with high spirits.

    "I''m done for," Cao Sheng watched, dumbfounded. He knew people could change, but he had no idea they could change this much. He felt numb.

    "Congrattions, General Cao, your foster son is quite something!"

    Congrattions erupted all around.

    "UGHHH!!" Cao Sheng choked back a mouthful of dark blood...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 607: Chaos Sovereigns Flying Talisman!

    Chapter 607: Chaos Sovereign''s Flying Talisman!

    Yun Xiao¡¯s <em>sincerity</em> towards the Thunder Department had left those who once cursed him steeped in guilt.

    It was unavoidable!

    The Moon Sword Goddess, a formidable pir of the Immortal Sword Court, had not even been relied upon before she retreated a vast distance away.

    Yun Xiao''s next campaign in the Divine Gateway necessitated a pretext, some semnce of public support.

    Moreover, before setting out, he wanted to drain the Thunder Department of its vitality once more. Seeing the masses swayed and transformed, he was thoroughly pleased!

    The Immortals of the Thunder Department were no fools. If they couldn¡¯t outshout or kill him, why not switch to ttering? Cursing him was suffocating, nearly deadly. But ttery proved far more soothing!

    In life, adaptability was key. Otherwise, the vexations and helplessness of life would eventually be the death of one.

    In that moment, Yun Xiao, standing triumphant atop the corpses stirred by the wind, became the Thunder Department¡¯s most radiant new star, the greatest justice under the thunderous skies!

    No one even whispered of the demise of Ster Margrave Feng Xuan.¡°Life on the path of immortality, a step towards heaven, a step into hell, truly fascinating,¡± Yun Xiao mused inwardly.

    His gaze was serene as he locked eyes with General Cao for a good while.

    Cao Sheng''s expression was wonderfully animated for quite some time. Eventually, he chuckled sheepishly, "Considering issues from the perspective of the Thunder Department is your fortune, and ours as well!"

    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to my foster father¡¯s teachings,¡± Yun Xiao replied. His tranquil demeanor almost made people forget his ferocity and brutality when taking lives.

    After speaking, Yun Xiao bowed and continued, ¡°There are eight other luminous talents who need to present themselves on the Thunder Rankings. So, I shall withdraw for now and not take more of everyone¡¯s time.¡±

    With that, Yun Xiao tactfully excused himself, shifting the focus of the Nine Thunders Arena to the more somber-faced high officials and their descendants.

    Among them were several whose strength rivaled or even surpassed that of Bai Ling''er and Feng Qi!

    From their perspective, of course, they didn¡¯t believe a word of Yun Xiao¡¯s nonsense.

    ¡°Don¡¯t celebrate too soon.¡±

    ¡°The Divine Gateway is no ce for reckless behavior.¡±

    ¡°Rest assured, the Divine Gateway has 16 spots, and our Thunder Department holds nine. There will be infighting in the early stages, and there¡¯s still a chance to defeat him and avenge Feng Qi.¡±

    Whispers filled the air, undercurrents roiling.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On the Celestial Thunder tform, the atmosphere was somber.

    The ninth round was carrying on, and the battles were far from boring. However, none of the high officials were paying attention. Only when their own descendants were fighting would they take a more attentive look.

    The body of Feng Xuan had been sent away, but they remained disturbed for a long time.

    Confusion, shock, and caution were all present!

    The two Supreme Generals sat still in their honored seats, motionless, eyes closed, meditating as if waiting for something.

    Finally, a flying talisman reached the hands of Yun Yin.

    All eyes turned to him.

    Upon reading the message, Yun Yin''s expression revealed no surprise.

    ¡°What did she say?¡± Gu Zhenxiao asked with a cold voice.

    ¡°After learning about the Immortal Asylum, she has given up on Lu Yao,¡± Yun Yin replied calmly.

    ¡°Cao Shuo has quite the gall!¡± Gu Zhenxiao''s eyes darkened. A mere ything in his view, not only was she uncooperative, but she also dared to offend on both sides?

    ¡°She has ruined her own prospects for a mere man, now she¡¯s despised by everyone.¡± Cao Sheng shook his head.

    ¡°How shall we deal with her?¡± Gu Suwan asked softly.

    ¡°Let¡¯s start by arresting her under the false pretense of passing orders from the Moon Sword Goddess,¡± Gu Zhenxiao said coldly.

    Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan nodded, no objections whatsoever.

    And Gu Suwan seemed even eager to execute the n.

    ¡°Let¡¯s strip her of her position and detain her, and let the Moon Sword Goddess handle it herself, since this is a conflict between two martial sisters,¡± Yun Yin added.

    ¡°I¡¯ll issue the arrest warrant right now,¡± Cao Sheng volunteered.

    The two Supreme Generals gave him the chance.

    ¡°No matter how long Lu Yao can still eke it out, at least Cao Shuo¡¯s path in the Celestial Court hase to an end,¡± Gu Suwan thought to herself.

    As long as Cao Shuo lived, as her sister-inw, Gu Suwan was always at risk of being implicated.

    ¡°Supreme Generals¡­¡± Bo Hong stepped forward and asked softly, ¡°Since Lu Yao has no real backing and hasmitted the crime of killing Ster Margrave Feng, shouldn¡¯t we detain him first? If he escapes before the Chaos Sovereign and Nine Thunders Sovereign reply, we would have failed in our duty.¡±

    ¡°Sure, you do it yourself then,¡± Gu Zhenxiao said evenly.

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Bo Hong hesitated, then awkwardly added, ¡°He probably won''t try and leave. So, maybe it''s best if we just continue to keep an eye on him for now.¡±

    The facts were clear. Feng Xuan had been in. Even without protection, who would dare make a move on Lu Yao now?

    Just then, both Yun Yin and Gu Zhenxiao received a flying talisman!

    The one Yun Yin held came directly from the highest authority of the Thunder Department, the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign.

    After reading the message, Yun Yin¡¯s already somber face grew even more overcast. He looked up, his voice a chilling whisper, ¡°One of the Chaos Sovereign''s subordinates died on our territory, and the Nine Thunders Sovereign has no way of giving an exnation. He orders us to capture Lu Yao at all costs, regardless of any losses.¡±

    Bo Hong was taken aback by the intensity of the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s reaction. This response clearly showed how much the Nine Thunders Sovereign respected the Chaos Sovereign.

    ¡°Does that mean we''re going to disqualify Lu Yao from the Nine Thunders Rankings? He has a spot now,¡± Bo Hong asked.

    ¡°No choice, the Nine Thunders Sovereign hasmanded, and in this time''s Immortal Tournament, the Thunder Department can only send eight participants,¡± Yun Yin dered, standing up.

    He swept his gaze around the gathering of high officials andmanded, ¡°This capture is critical; everyone moves out together, and we mustplete the mission.¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± The high officials stood, their expressions solemn.

    It was rare for the Thunder Department to mobilize at this scale, a mission demanding the action of the 100 high officials.

    The stakes were indeed high.

    ¡°Lu Yao underestimated our Thunder Department¡¯s resolve to enforce against wickedness,¡± Bo Hong thought with a cold smirk.

    Just a moment ago, that boy had been trying to salvage his reputation within the Thunder Department? Now, it was a waste of effort, utterly unnecessary!

    As Bo Hong stood amidst the crowd, it was justice over kinship. His thoughts were clear, devoid of any sympathy, in fact, he felt an added measure of disdain.

    ¡°Wait.¡± Gu Zhenxiao suddenly spoke up in a quiet, deep tone, calling out.

    Everyone turned to look, seeing him holding a flying talisman, his expression deeply puzzled.

    Yun Yin narrowed his eyes and asked, "What does the Chaos Sovereign say?"

    "See for yourself." Gu Zhenxiao tossed the flying talisman to him.

    After examining it, Yun Yin''s face also fell into confusion. Shaking his head, he said, "Feng Xuan was highly valued by the Chaos Sovereign, and he lost his life in our Thunder Department... What does the Chaos Sovereign mean by this?"

    "I don''t know!" Gu Zhenxiao furrowed his brow deeply.

    Everyone was in the dark about the contents of the Chaos Sovereign''s talisman, and naturally, their confusion deepened.

    Thus, Bo Hong asked, "Supreme Generals, are we still going to capture Lu Yao?"

    Gu Zhenxiao and Yun Yin looked at each other, and unexpectedly, they said in unison, "Do not capture him."

    "..." Hearing this, everyone was utterly speechless.

    Gu Suwan lowered her head and stuck her tongue out at Cao Sheng beside her, whispering, "Have to say, that little guy really has a huge stroke of luck¡­"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Hall of Soaring Thunder, Yun Xiao had nowhere else to go but here for now.

    He did send a message to Cao Shuo, telling her to keep hiding and wait for his return from the Divine Gateway.

    But she hadn''t responded to his flying talisman yet.

    Yun Xiao then returned to the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion with Jiang Haiyan and Jiang Heqing.

    Seeing the charming and distinct sisters, Yun Xiao knew they wouldply with whatever he asked. But he wasn''t in the mood to oppress.

    He had a conflict with Jiang Taiping, but with them, it was resolved. So he told them, "Go back to Sky Soaring City and live well."

    "We want to stay with you," Jiang Heqing said softly, clutching at his sleeve.

    "This is where we say our goodbyes. We were not meant to walk the same path," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "Is there anything else you need to tell us?" Jiang Haiyan pulled her sister back, maintaining their dignity.

    "I still owe Sun Xiaoqi a meal. Help me invite her to the Drunken Immortal Tavern in Sky Soaring City," Yun Xiao said.

    "Okay." Jiang Haiyan looked at him with a sad gaze and nodded gently.

    "You should thank me for keeping you from a path of folly. The karmic burden of such a path is unbearable for anyone. You will have a righteous cultivation journey," Yun Xiao said.

    The sisters nodded silently, then walked away hand in hand.

    Jiang Haiyan walked steadily, her eyes moist, while Jiang Heqing kept looking back, sobbing softly, "Can''t I follow you¡­"

    The answer, of course, was no.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t resent them, but he couldn¡¯t protect them either.

    His path to immortality was thorny.

    After the two sisters had left, Yun Xiao entered his cultivation chamber and pushed the stone door shut, then he pulled out the small ck beast from his robes.

    The little ck creature looked utterly dejected, stars swirling in its eyes, one tongue lolling to the left, the other to the right...

    ¡°How are you doing?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Hungry! Hungry... milk¡­¡± Red Moon howled miserably, clearly famished, its belly visibly sunken.

    ¡°Bettertch onto a wealthydy fast, I can¡¯t hold on! I¡¯m fading!¡± Blue Star said with a trembling voice.

    ¡°Get lost.¡± Yun Xiao knew they were nagging him for debts. Out of sight, out of mind, so he stuffed them back into his bosom.

    However, with his resources depleted once again, the problem of poverty loomedrge.

    ¡°Before I head to the Divine Gateway, I must find a way to strengthen myself, or I won¡¯t hold up.¡±

    The question was, where to find the way?

    Though the high officials of the Thunder Department now held him in fear and awe, Yun Xiao felt it was tougher than scaling the heavens to get resources from them.

    ¡°Killing for treasure won¡¯t work either, and making use of the Thunder Immortal Formation means I can¡¯t go to the Divine Gateway. The Sword Devil Form is exhausted, and both the Divine Destion Physique and Mortal Dust Devil Blood are inessible. Right now, mybat power can hardly increase further, and even my fallbacks are at risk.¡±

    It could be said that this was Yun Xiao at his most unencumbered.

    ¡°The only way left to sudden wealth, to attach to a richdy?¡± Yun Xiao thought and chuckled dryly.

    While his Creator Immortal appearance and temperament would indeed give him an edge on that path, the problem was that there were no wealthierdies in the Thunder Department than Cao Shuo now.

    ¡°I¡¯ll have to find wealth not from money but through skills and techniques, filling in my other weaknesses.

    ¡°The problem is, the truly top-tier celestial techniques of the Thunder Department aren¡¯t easy to acquire either¡­¡±

    It seemed every path he considered led to an impasse!

    Just then, Yun Xiao''s significantly strengthened spirit first detected someone approaching.

 Chapter 608: Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau

    Chapter 608: Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau

    "Someone visiting the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion at this time? No doubt, they''re seeking me." Yun Xiao sat on a wooden chair, his eyes fixed intently on the stone door.

    His situation was precarious. So, he was always cautious.

    "Lu Yao, are you there?" A voice, warm and refreshing like a spring breeze, called from outside.

    "I am," Yun Xiao replied.

    The stone door swung open, and a young woman dressed in a flowing blue gown stepped gracefully inside. She was petite and lovely, her legs pale as ivory, her eyesrge and luminous¡ªmore captivating than Bai Ling¡¯er of simr fame.

    Yun Xiao knew why she was more alluring; she was not truly a young woman but rather bore the sweet allure of a mature madame. She was none other than Gu Suwan, the Lightning Duchess!

    Last they met, Gu Suwan had visited as the madame of the Cao Immortal Manor, and Yun Xiao had just been taken in as the young master.

    Upon seeing her, Yun Xiao stood, greeting the beauty in blue. "Lu Yao pays respect to foster mother."

    "Sit," Gu Suwan said, her voice gentle, her smile tender.Cao Sheng had always been the stern presence before Yun Xiao, so she maintained her previous demeanor¡ªaffectionate, with a hint of apology. "Some misunderstandings have happened these past days between Old Cao and you. Thankfully, they''re now cleared."

    "Indeed." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "My child, I have always believed in your goodness," Gu Suwan continued.

    A spark lit up in Yun Xiao''s eyes, and he smiled. "Thank you for your trust, foster mother."

    Gu Suwan''s smile brightened, and she urged, "Rx in my presence, sit."

    Yun Xiao did sit, at her repeated invitation, while she, as his foster mother, stood before him, her gaze soft and deep upon him.

    "Is there something you want to ask me?" Yun Xiao cut to the chase.

    "Just a small one," Gu Suwan responded crisply.

    "Please, ask."

    Gu Suwan moved behind him, her jade hand resting on his shoulder, her fingers like electric snakes twining through his white robe. She leaned in close, her face near Yun Xiao, her fragrance pure yet tantalizing.

    But all Yun Xiao felt was danger, a threat!

    As the wife of Cao Sheng, such intimacy was unnecessary, unless it served to furtherplicate their rtionship. So, she was using their familial bond to probe him!

    She tested his concealed strength while also pressuring him.

    If Yun Xiao faltered, the astute Gu Suwan would deduce that the power disyed in Sky Soaring City and against Feng Xuan were one-offs.

    Confronted with this deadly and enigmatic intimacy, Yun Xiao simply leaned back in his chair, rxed. He even turned his head to gaze at the beauty inches away, seeing Gu Suwan as nothing more than a tender little rabbit.

    This mental duel was like a sh between beasts in the forest, each baring teeth.

    Humans, moreplex than wild beasts, often intimidated not with ferocity but with ease andposure.

    His eyes were less than two inches from Gu Suwan''s red lips, quietly waiting for her to speak.

    Gu Suwan minutely observed every micro-reaction. His gaze, movements, expression, the twitch of his lips, the flutter of hisshes, the dtion of his pupils, the tremor of his skin¡­ all revealing the psyche of a man.

    In this moment, Yun Xiao''s response matched his persona back at the Nine Thunders Arena; even with his foster mother, he maintained a domineering and intense presence.

    Clearly, Gu Suwan was unsettled. She was afraid. Afraid that like Feng Xuan, she might meet an inexplicable end.

    So, she slowly rxed her hands, stood up straight, and began to massage Yun Xiao''s shoulders, softlyughing, "You''ve fought so many battles back-to-back, you must be exhausted. Tomorrow you head to the Divine Gateway. Let your mother ease your shoulders, rx you."

    A shoulder massage from a Lightning Duchess was indeed the highest honor in the Thunder Department.

    As Yun Xiao enjoyed the moment, he smiled and said, "You might as well ask your question."

    "It''s nothing significant," Gu Suwan chuckled while casually mentioning, "Your surname is Lu, and your spirit is powerful. The Supreme General said the first time he saw you, you reminded him of someone."

    "Who?" Yun Xiao casually inquired, his body rxing further.

    "A divine being who shook the Celestial Court a thousand times over, the most glorious figure of our time." Gu Suwan''s eyes sparkled.

    "It couldn¡¯t be the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court, Lu Fan, could it?" Yun Xiao followed her lead.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "You guessed it!" Gu Suwanughed and said, "You do share many simrities with him. Do you know what they¡¯re saying now at the Thunder Department?"

    "Please enlighten me," Yun Xiao replied, his curiosity piqued.

    "They''re saying that with your unearthly talents, you might very well be the son of the Chaos Sovereign!" Gu Suwan dered, locking eyes with him.

    Yun Xiao paused for a moment, thenughed. "Absurd!"

    "Is it not so?" Gu Suwan shook her head, seemingly in disbelief.

    "Of course not." Yun Xiao chuckled, then probed, "Why are you so certain?"

    Gu Suwan fixed her gaze on him, silent for a while, then whispered, "I didn¡¯t believe it either, but something odd happened today."

    "Oh? I''m all ears," Yun Xiao said.

    Gu Suwan blinked, leaned in close, and her breath was fragrant as she murmured, "It¡¯s said that the Chaos Sovereign, upon hearing of your rise in the Thunder Rankings, personally sent a congrattory message to Gu Zhenxiao."

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao narrowed his eyes, "And how did he congratte me?"

    "Just a single phrase," Gu Suwan replied.

    "Which phrase?" Yun Xiao asked.

    With a mysterious smile, Gu Suwan said, "Distance tests a horse''s strength."

    Yun Xiao froze for a moment. He suddenly remembered the night they first met, when that man had also spoken those same words upon hearing his name.

    "He knows I am Lu Yao, and that he saw me that night."

    So, the connections were made.

    Yun Xiao had long been prepared for the ties that bound them.

    Lu Yao was indeed his birthright son! Once acknowledged, there was no escaping it.

    "Haha..." Yun Xiao suddenly burst intoughter.

    "What are youughing at?" Gu Suwan pinched his ear gently and said, "Tell mother, is it true or not?"

    The answer to this question was of great importance to them all.

    Even the Nine Thunders Sovereign might have to guess.

    Yun Xiao''sughter, however, made Gu Suwan nervous.

    "Tell me," she cooed, pushing on Yun Xiao''s shoulder like a capricious girlfriend.

    Yun Xiao then sobered up and said, "Foster mother, let me keep this mystery for now. When we reach the Divine Gateway and meet the Chaos Sovereign, all will be clear."

    "You are such a tease!" Gu Suwan said,ughing yet not without a trace of worry. Her expression shifted dramatically to one of shock and even fear.

    Yun Xiao had in Feng Xuan and now boldly nned to face the Chaos Sovereign at the Divine Gateway. If he was not the son of the Chaos Sovereign, did he not fear death?

    In the Celestial Court, no hidden power could rival the Chaos Sovereign!

    And so, she realized Yun Xiao had cunningly led her into this plot.

    Had Yun Xiao directly confirmed their father-son rtionship, she might have doubted him.

    "Alright then!" Gu Suwan withdrew her hand and slowly said, "Regardless, if you ever need help with your cultivation, just ask your mother."

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao smiled and said, "Why wait? I¡¯d like to visit the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau now. Will you take me?"

    "The Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau? It holds the Thunder Department''s peak celestial techniques, requiring at least the status of a Rank 6 Heave..."

    Gu Suwan was interrupted as Yun Xiao produced his newly acquired Rank 6 tinum token.

    "A Rank 6 Heavenly Officer also needs to have earned merits..." Gu Suwan added.

    "That¡¯s why I need you to pave the way," Yun Xiao paused, "I¡¯m about to bring glory to the Thunder Department, consider it an advance?"

    "Can merits even be earned in advance?" Gu Suwanughed, somewhat exasperated, but added, "Fine, I''ll use Old Cao¡¯s influence and try for you."

    "That¡¯s wonderful, thank you, foster mother." Yun Xiao''s smile was bright and sunny.

    This approach, although roundabout, wasn''t too different in principle from marrying into wealth.

    "Is it true that at the heart of the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, there is also a Sigil Suppression Gate?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    "You shouldn¡¯t¡ª" Gu Suwan started, rmed.

    But Yun Xiao swiftly took her hands and pulled her onto hisp, saying earnestly, "I promise, this time I won¡¯t break it."

    "You!" Gu Suwan''s face flushed, and she quickly stood up, ring at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao looked up at her with a defiant smile. So, it''s fine for you to tease me, but not for me to turn the tables?

    The two locked eyes for three breaths.

    Suppressing the turmoil within, Gu Suwan turned and softly said, "Come with me."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 609: Celestial Courts Most Prestigious Background!

    Chapter 609: Celestial Court''s Most Prestigious Background!

    Somewhere in the sacrednd of the Thunder Department, billions of lightning serpents coalesced into a massive violet orb, forming a prison for punishment.

    Outside this electrified spherey a vast expanse of darkness, a void devoid of escape.

    In the center of this lightning sphere, Cao Shuo, a striking woman in a violet dress, knelt among the serpentine electricity. Herplexion was pale, her delicate body trembled slightly, and her eyes flickered with struggle and fear.

    Not far from her, amidst shes of lightning, stood a woman in a silver robe. Her silver hair surged with the gleam of swords, her face covered in a frosty veneer, her gaze as fluid and cold as mercury, carrying a venomous chill. This was the Moon Sword Goddess.

    Yet, the person Cao Shuo truly feared was not her.

    Around Cao Shuo, suspended in the air, were nine figures wreathed in violet electricity. They appeared young, with violet hair and faces of divine beauty. Their eyescked whites, resembling tumultuous seas of lightning that rumbled continuously.

    Most astonishingly, these nine figures of violet lightning looked exactly alike in appearance, stature, and demeanor, indistinguishable from one another.

    These nine surrounded Cao Shuo, their thunderous eyes fixed upon her. Under their gaze, Cao Shuo felt immense pressure, keeping her head bowed, her lips tinged violet.

    "So, you don¡¯t understand him at all," the nine spoke in unison, their voices not loud, but echoing like continual thunder, bombarding Cao Shuo''s ears. "You simply act on rebellion against ancient traditions and personal affection, like a moth to me, paving his way.""It¡¯s true... I do love him," Cao Shuo''s voice choked, but she admitted it openly.

    "Am I hearing this right?" the Moon Sword Goddess scoffed coldly. "Little sister, how old are you? Do you really see yourself as a na?ve girl, ying out a worn tale of budding love? Who are you trying to fool with such a fairy tale?"

    "I believe her." The nine figures calmly observed Cao Shuo. "Lil Cao has a heart that knows its own desires, driven by love and hate alike."

    "How ridiculous. And to think you¡¯ve been to the Western Kunlun Pce. You are a disgrace to us," the Moon Sword Goddess said coldly, shaking her head in deep disappointment.

    "Regarding Divine Dawn, the Immortal Asylum, and the origins of Lu Yao, Cao Shuo knows nothing. You may report back to the Western Kunlun Pce," the nine figures of violet electricity told the Moon Sword Goddess, turning to address her.

    "I have my own scores to settle with her," the Moon Sword Goddess replied discontentedly.

    Hearing this, Cao Shuo¡¯s eyes flickered, and she retorted with a smirk, "Senior Sister, you inquire so much about the Chaos Sovereign, suspecting his connection with Lu Yao. Haven¡¯t I just reinforced your bond with your disciple? If this young man indeed proves to be a son of the Greatest War God, think of it as me giving you a boost. You should be thanking me, not settling ounts."

    The Moon Sword Goddess gazed coolly at Cao Shuo. "Yet, I wish for no ties with the Chaos Sovereign."

    Cao Shuo chuckled lightly, a smirk crossing her features. "Putting on airs, are you? Who in the Celestial Court isn''t looking to ride the coattails of the Chaos Sovereign nowadays?"

    The Moon Sword Goddess''s brows furrowed sharply at the remark.

    Their exchange was cut short by the nine figures wreathed in violet lightning. "There''s no need for argument. Let time reveal the truth."

    They referred, of course, to the true identity of Lu Yao.

    The Moon Sword Goddess shot Cao Shuo a chilling look. "Regardless, you''ve tarnished the reputation of the Western Kunlun Pce. The Empress Dowager will not overlook this."

    "That remains to be seen," Cao Shuo replied with a lighter tone, her face breaking into a slight smile. "If Lu Yao truly is the son of Sovereign Lu, then I''ve made a monumental contribution."

    "Are you gambling your life on this?" The Moon Sword Goddess shook her head. "Over a mere boy? You''ve truly lost your mind."

    "He may be just a boy, but you have no idea of his prowess. Once you experience it, you''ll be enchanted as well," Cao Shuo murmured, her voice a soft whisper.

    "Enough!" The Moon Sword Goddess looked as though she wanted to p Cao Shuo right then.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Cao Shuo, unbothered, turned to the nine figures of violet electricity. "Sovereign, before the verdict is out, why not release me? I''ve staked my life on this, why waste the resources of the Thunder Prison on my unworthy life?"

    The nine figures gave her a deep look. "Stop causing trouble. Stay put here quietly until the decree of the Divine Gateway is decided."

    Cao Shuo bit her lip. "What if he rises like the Chaos Sovereign? Aren''t you afraid of making an enemy by imprisoning his woman?"

    One of the figures chuckled, looking at Cao Shuo with a meaningful gaze. "The question is, does he truly love you?"

    Cao Shuo paused, taken aback.

    The Moon Sword Goddessughed at this. "Youpare him to the Chaos Sovereign, but think about it. How many celestial maidens surround the Chaos Sovereign, and how many fleeting romances has he had?"

    With that pointed remark, she turned and strode away, leaving the confines of the electric prison.

    Left behind were only Cao Shuo and the nine figures of violet electricity.

    "Stay put!" they said, then suddenly merged into one, forming a single violent violet orb of electricity.

    As they prepared to leave, they paused and added, "Cao Shuo, in two days, I will take you to the mortal realm."

    "For what purpose?" Cao Shuo eximed, her face turning pale.

    The figure spoke coldly, "As a Rank 4 Chief Military Thunder Emissary, your records show no eptance of incense offerings. This will sooner orter draw the scrutiny of the Divine Gateway. If they deem you disloyal to the Celestial Court, not only will your end be tragic, but your entire lineage will suffer, and even the Thunder Department could be implicated."

    Cao Shuo copsed to the ground, her forehead beaded with cold sweat.

    "After the incident at Sky Soaring City, the Heavenly Pce was outraged. They suspect rebellion within our jurisdiction. This is the gravest warning from the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Should anyone act the fool and spoil the whole pot, don''t expect any mercy from me! If you dare err in your thoughts. Even if Lu Yao were indeed the son of the Chaos Sovereign, not even 10,000 lives would save you! Do you understand?"

    Cao Shuo''s lips trembled and her gaze dimmed as she replied, "I-I understand."

    "Reflect on this well," the figure continued, his voice softening. "About the incense offerings, I was once as perplexed as you. I understand your confusion, but over time I''vee to see the truth. The path to Immortality is a struggle for supremacy, where one must seize the essence of heaven and earth and capture the divine light of the sun and the moon. It is a cruel road paved with blood, and while human nature tends to beautify the cultivation journey as if it were a harmonious and carefree adventure, to believe it''s a fantasy is a grave mistake..."

    With that, the figure extended a hand made of lightning, gently tapping Cao Shuo''s head. "Child, your father served me all his life. As an elder, I earnestly advise you to clear your vision. The path of cultivation you face has never been strewn with flowers and smiles. This world is filled with blood."

    After these words, the figure sighed deeply and walked away in silence.

    Cao Shuo slowly copsed to the ground, her body convulsing as she clutched her head and wept bitterly.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Thunder Department, the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau¡­

    There stood a towering structure known as the Seven Thunders Pagoda, located just behind the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office. This ce was the dream of all Immortals in the Thunder Department, rumored to house countless secret scriptures created by the sages over the tens of thousands of years since the department''s establishment.

    Entry was permitted only to those of Rank 6 or higher.

    Within the entire Thunder Department, considering notbat prowess but merely official rank, only a little over 1,000 had reached Rank 6 or higher, and among those, fewer than nine were under the age of 30.

    It had not been long since the Thunder Department selection had concluded and the dark skies had yet to descend when Yun Xiao, apanied by Gu Suwan, arrived at the base of the Seven Thunders Pagoda.

    The area around the pagoda, a repository of celestial techniques, was crowded. Given Yun Xiao''s current fame within the Thunder Department, the pair, mother and son walking side by side, naturally drew many eyes.

    Indeed, one could mistake the elegant young man and his charmingpanion for a couple if not looked at closely. Who would have guessed they were mother and son?

    As Lu Yao''s name rang out, greeted with smiles and respect from all corners, it became clear: to go from reviled to revered needed only the spectacle of a single battle!

    While some still scowled, the majority hade to ept Yun Xiao as the Thunder Department''s pride.

    As mother and son stepped into the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, the air buzzed with chatter about them.

    "See that? Gu Suwan and his rtionship have fully mended¡ªthere¡¯s real warmth there. What does that tell you?"

    "The rumors about Lu Yao... Chaos¡ª"

    "Rumors your mom! Think about it. I just heard that the Thunder Department¡¯s change of heart towards Lu Yao is because he¡¯s supposedly the illegitimate son of the Chaos Sovereign! And now, with such good rtions with his mother, doesn¡¯t that seem to confirm it?"

    "It¡¯s quite possible. Lu Yao has in several scions of the Thunder Department and still walks boldly among them, unafraid of assassination. This shows his powerful backing. Even General Bai Duo has had to bow in haste!"

    "Such a background is terrifying. Surely it''s the most prestigious in the Great Dao Celestial Realm!"

    "The more I see of this young man, the better he looks..."

    Without strong connections, people envy and resent.

    With strong connections, the masses simply envied, afraid to resent.

    Such was the stark reality of society.

    However, amid the fervent discussions, no one noticed two figures, Rank 3 Heavenly Officers of the Thunder Department, observing from a building behind Gu Suwan and Yun Xiao as the pair entered the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau.

    These two were Bo Hong and Bai Duo.

    Bo Hong''s expression was somber, while Bai Duo''s was pale and sullen, his eyes red and brimming with murderous intent.

    "His rise mirrors that of the Chaos Sovereign," Bo Hong remarked coldly.

    "Indeed," Bai Duo agreed.

    "But don''t lose heart," Bo Hong added.

    "What do you mean?" Bai Duo asked.

    "I¡¯ve done some checking. From Jiang Taiping to Cao Sheng, and even to the Moon Sword Goddess, I¡¯ve noticed this youngster likes to leverage power."

    "One after another, he uses these leverages to survive. And in the end, we find that from Jiang Taiping to Cao Sheng, and then to the Moon Sword Goddess¡­ none of them were truly his backers at all."

    "Exactly," Bo Hong pointed towards Gu Suwan. "And now, the boy starts to leverage the Chaos Sovereign¡¯s power to his benefit, and Gu Suwan has fallen for it again."

    "So you¡¯re saying, this time is also a bluff?" Bai Duo looked towards Bo Hong, seeking confirmation.

 Chapter 610: The Thunder Departments Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts!

    Chapter 610: The Thunder Department''s Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts!

    ¡°I don''t know¡­ the congrattory message could just be a ploy of the Chaos Sovereign, making things unclear. But I hold one truth¡ªif he truly holds this status and is in good standing with the Chaos Sovereign, his every step within the Thunder Department needs no tightrope walking."

    "The issue is, it¡¯s a gamble we cannot afford," Bai Duomented with a helpless shake of his head.

    "Who said we''re the ones who have to bet?" Bo Hong chuckled and pped his friend on the shoulder. "What he truly is will reveal itself once he enters the Divine Gateway. There¡¯s no need for haste or getting close to him. If it turns out he is the progeny of the Chaos Sovereign, you¡¯d have to smile and grovel even if it meant your family¡¯s demise. If not, his facade will crumble entirely, and you won¡¯t be the only one eager to kick him when he''s down."

    "That¡¯s true. At the very least, we are safer than Cao Sheng right now," Bai Duo nodded solemnly.

    "Indeed. Cao Sheng got dragged into this mess again by that youngster," Bo Hong said with a sneer, then sighed, remembering someone. "But I must admit, the Chaos Sovereign truly is formidable."

    "Isn¡¯t that the truth? Let alone us, even the Nine Thunders Sovereign must guess at his intentions. Though both are Rank 1 Heavenly Officers, the martial prowess of the Greatest War God has long surpassed any other outsider Immortal official," Bai Duo remarked with deep reverence.

    "This feels like it''s leading to trouble," Bo Hong expressed his concern.

    "Yes, it¡¯s unmanageable. Very dangerous," Bai Duo agreed.

    The two fell silent for a moment.Then Bai Duo added, "I just heard the Nine Thunders Sovereign has returned."

    "Yes." Bo Hong nodded.

    "He hasn¡¯t been back for years. Now that he''s here, he¡¯s definitely up to something," Bai Duo said.

    "I bet he¡¯s personally apprehended Cao Shuo," Bo Hong said.

    "He¡¯s taking precautions against the Chaos Sovereign?" Bai Duo inquired.

    "Possibly," Bo Hong concluded and took a deep breath, "The most tempting divine artifact in the history of the Celestial Court, the Immortal Asylum, has descended upon West Kunlun Mountain. With the demise of Princess Divine Dawn, all the Immortals of the Celestial Court are on edge for the Immortal Asylum. Watch, with great benefits ahead, order is about to copse."

    "Whoever gains the Immortal Asylum,mands the Celestial Court... Who the hell came up with that slogan? Brilliant!" Bai Duo said exasperatedly.

    "Heh, you have Sovereign Lu to thank for that as well," Bo Hong sneered darkly.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, the first tier of the Seven Thunders Pagoda stood imposingly.

    At the entrance, a Rank 4 Thunder Emissary, tasked with its defense, recognized the approaching figures of Gu Suwan and Yun Xiao. Without inquiry, he allowed them entry¡ªa testament to how widespread the rumors about the Chaos Sovereign had be.

    Within the bureau, the heart of the pagoda was encircled by a series of sealed chambers, each likely containing a unique spell from the Thunder Department''s arcane teachings. Most chamber doors were shut, indicating cultivators were engaged in deep cultivation within.

    "What level of celestial techniques are typically practiced on this first tier?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Generally, they are of the Lower Vast Heaven grade," Gu Suwan replied softly.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Vast Heaven grade at the first tier? Does that mean there¡¯s not a single Common Heaven grade celestial technique here?" Yun Xiao questioned further.

    "Why would Heavenly Officers at Rank 6 and above need Common Heaven grade celestial techniques?" Gu Suwan replied with a charming smile.

    "Indeed," Yun Xiao nodded in agreement.

    Beyond cultivation realms, people ssified things like Sword Souls, celestial techniques, and magic treasures into different grades.

    Corresponding to the Eight Mortal Realms of the First Dao Tribtion were the seven ster bodies, named after celestial objects such as meteors,ets, and so on.

    The Eight Dao Heart Realms of the Second Dao Tribtion, which involved the essence of the Dao Heart, aligned with the Five Elements and the dual forces of Yin and Yang.

    Now, as for the Third Dao Tribtion, concerning the cultivation of the Genesis Spirit, the human-defined grades were known as the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades.

    This system was created by man, not by the heavens.

    Cultivation realms were created for man, but the grades of objects were determined by man!

    Yun Xiao was aware that the first four grades within the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades included Common Heaven, Vast Heaven, Supreme Heaven, and Dao Heaven.

    There was no strict corrtion between these material grades and cultivation levels.

    For Yun Xiao, even the second grade, Vast Heaven, was already considered superior.

    It was rumored in the Celestial Court that nothing above the sixth grade existed.

    In other words, thest three of the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades were the stuff of legends, while the first six were moremonly observed.

    Ascending the Heavens and Misty Rebirth were both Vast Heaven grade celestial techniques, known for their explosive power.

    The Sword Souls of the Bai siblings were also of the second Vast Heaven grade.

    Jiang Taiping¡¯s Boundary Defining Divine Needle was third Supreme Heaven grade.

    At the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, starting from the first tier with the Lower Vast Heaven grade suggested that the levels above were exceedingly advanced.

    Gu Suwanid out the structure of the Seven Thunders Pagoda in a single breath, "The first three tiers cover Lower, Mid, and Upper Vast Heaven grade. The middle three tiers correspond to the Lower, Middle, and Upper Supreme Heaven grade. The seventh tier covers Dao Heaven grade."

    "Do you know any Dao Heaven grade techniques, foster mother?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "A Rank 3 Heavenly Officer has no right to practice them; it requires someone at Rank 2. So, the seventh tier is essible only to the Supreme Generals," Gu Suwan replied with a resigned smile.

    Her words suggested a disparity in the alignment between cultivation realms and the grades of items; previously, these had matched almost one-to-one.

    To simplify, the Essence Manifestation Realm typically utilized Common Heaven grade celestial techniques, and the Divine Self and Celestial Expanse Realmsmonly employed Vast Heaven grade celestial techniques.

    Beyond that, Supreme Heaven and Dao Heaven grade celestial techniques were only essible to those above the Celestial Expanse Realm.

    Yun Xiao was far from reaching this level, yet he boldly stated, "I want to take a look at the seventh tier of the Seven Thunders Pagoda."

    "You can''t, and we leave at dawn for the Divine Gateway, don''t waste time," Gu Suwan cautioned.

    "Just a look," Yun Xiao insisted.

    "Alright," Gu Suwan sighed, massaging her forehead, then added, "The seventh tier of is called the Cloud Thunder Pce. It''s the cultivation ce of the Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General, Yun Yin. I''ll ask for an audience; if he agrees, then you may enter."

    "I haven''t met this Supreme General yet. I hope he''s a good person," Yun Xiao said.

    Gu Suwan did not reply further but led him upwards to the top of the sixth-tier staircase and knocked on the door, announcing, "Supreme General, Lu Yao seeks an audience."

    "Enter."

    The response came quickly, a voice as smooth as jade.

    Gu Suwan gently pushed the door open, leading Yun Xiao into an elegant, ancient-looking pce.

    The pce was spacious, with a cushion at its center where a schrly middle-aged man sat cross-legged. Around him stood ten white jade pirs, each holding a jade slip.

    This man was Yun Yin.

    Upon his entry, Yun Xiao bowed, "Lu Yao greets the Supreme General."

    "No need for formalities," Yun Yin said, rising with a smile. "I have long heard of your distinguished and unparalleled talents. Seeing you today exceeds all tales."

    His words sounded as if this was truly his first sighting of Yun Xiao.

    "Thank you," Yun Xiao said modestly.

    "I''ve brought him to learn some of the Thunder Department''s celestial techniques. He wishes to visit the seventh tier to observe the Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts of the Thunder Department," Gu Suwan exined.

    "Oh?" Yun Yin, with a wry smile, said, "ording to the rules, you shouldn''t be here. However, observing the Dao Heaven grade arts can indeed broaden your horizons. If you are to bring honor to the Thunder Department, then I will make an exception for you this once. Feel free to look around."

    "Thank you!" Yun Xiao bowed in gratitude.

    "Look all you want, but remember, no practicing..." Gu Suwan yed the role of the disciplinarian, subtly allowing her superior to shine.

    "I understand, just observing," Yun Xiao nodded. With limited time, he swiftly reached for a jade slip, allowing his spirit to delve into it for a quick observation.

    "No practicing, remember..." Only momentster, Gu Suwan started her reminders.

    "Don''t rush him; let him look a little longer," Yun Yin said with a gentle smile.

    "The Supreme General favors talent, but we still must not break the rules of the Thunder Department," Gu Suwan insisted.

    As soon as she finished speaking, Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit withdrew from the jade slip, having not lingered long, let alone practiced.

    Gu Suwan felt somewhat relieved. Her concern stemmed from knowing Yun Xiao''s remarkable aptitude; he had mastered techniques in half a day that took others much longer.

    "How was it?" Yun Yin asked.

    "It''s all very hazy, like reaching for the heavens," Yun Xiao admitted, his face flushed with humility. "It¡¯s too profound for me."

    "That''s normal," Yun Yin nodded with a smile. "You¡¯re not even 30 years old and already a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court. It won''t be many years before you¡¯re truly ready to train here."

    "I''ll take it one step at a time," Yun Xiao said, then moved to another jade slip.

    The Ten Great Daotian Secrets of the Thunder Department! One step at a time? No, he aimed to reach the heavens in one step!

    Quickly, in less than a hundred moments, Yun Xiao had <em>observed</em> them all. Then, he bowed to Yun Yin. "Supreme General, I must take my leave now."

    "I wish you great sess at the Divine Gateway," Yun Yin said, his hands sped behind his back, smiling.

    "Absolutely." Yun Xiao then exited the seventh tier of the Seven Thunders Pagoda and said to Gu Suwan, "Next, we head to the Sigil Suppression Gate."

    Gu Suwan blinked in surprise. "Aren''t the Supreme Heaven grade celestial techniques of tiers four to six suitable for you?"

    Yun Xiao shrugged and smiled. "I''ve already set my sights higher."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 611: Five Hundred Thousand True Immortal Jades For Your Life!

    Chapter 611: Five Hundred Thousand True Immortal Jades For Your Life!

    Gu Suwan said little as she led Yun Xiao along the long corridor of the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau.

    Soon, a vast square emerged at the end of their sight, over which hovered a round colossal mountain.

    Yun Xiao peered closely. The mountain, shaped like a millstone, was wrapped in chains of lightning that snaked around its surface. It spun rapidly, emitting a deafening roar. The lightning that sttered from it wove into a vast, ensnaring the sky above.

    This was the Sigil Suppression Gate!

    "This Sigil Suppression Gate is tangible, unlike the ethereal Sword Suppression Gate we saw before. There''s a clear difference," Yun Xiao thought to himself.

    Simply put, it was a gigantic thunder millstone!

    The Inscription Immortals of the Thunder Department used this thunder millstone to grind the Runes on their Life Sigils into the form of a prison!

    Compared to the Sword Suppression Gate, the Sigil Suppression Gate was undoubtedly heavier.

    "The Sigil Suppression Gate of the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau is no lesser than the Sword Suppression Gate of the Grand Firmament Academy. It can form up to sevenyers of thunder rings at its limit," Gu Suwan mentioned, a hint of mncholy in her gaze towards Yun Xiao. "You''re not nning to st this gate to pieces too, are you?""It''s quite possible that my Life Sigil is no less than any Sword Soul," Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    "Then you might want to step back and leave some leeway for others," Gu Suwan advised helplessly.

    "That won''t do. As a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court, it''s only right and proper for me to use the Sigil Suppression Gate. If it can''t withstand it, that¡¯s its own problem." Yun Xiao stated this with all seriousness, leaving no room for doubt, and headed straight for the Sigil Suppression Gate.

    "Oh, dear."

    Since the gate was not under Gu Suwan''s control, she did not attempt to stop him forcibly. She could only watch silently.

    "This young man¡­ He popped out of nowhere disying unprecedented talent. On top of that, he''s always so rxed and carefree. You can tell that domineering air around him runs through his bones."

    She nced around. Fortunately, there weren''t many people near the Sigil Suppression Gate at the time.

    Yun Xiao was indeed decisive! Even though only a few were present, remembering what had happened with the Sword Suppression Gate at the Grand Firmament Academy, they couldn''t help but be terrified.

    The crowd scattered, seeking others, spreading the word far and wide in an attempt to halt Yun Xiao.

    s, it was toote! Like a storm of lightning, Yun Xiao stepped forward and in an instant stood directly beneath the Sigil Suppression Gate!

    Thunder roared above his head!

    Once locked onto its target, the Sigil Suppression Gate awoke like a fierce beast roused from slumber.

    It began to whirl, countless serpents of thunder descending upon Yun Xiao, the entire thunder millstone pressing down lower and lower, like a hundred thousand mountains bearing down upon his head!

    "The pressure is tremendous!" Without a second word, Yun Xiao brought forth the Prison Warden Sigil from his brow!

    The Prison Warden Sigil, as if challenged, transformed into a nine-headed dragon that soared into the sky!

    <em>ROAR! </em>The almost 10,000,000 Runes on the dragon, each a small violet dragon itself, coiled around its body!

    With a thunderous sh, the Prison Warden Sigil collided with the Sigil Suppression Gate!

    "This Sigil Suppression Gate''s days are numbered." Yun Xiao felt that the grandeur of the Prison Warden Sigil was no less than that of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    Both were terrifying entities!

    However, to Yun Xiao''s surprise, the Sigil Suppression Gate didn''t even manage to unleash the firstyer of thunder rings before those rune dragons, under immense pressure, quickly converged to form a small world!

    This was the Rune Prison!

    Yun Xiao observed the Rune Prison formed from the assembly of countless rune dragons, seeing the dense dragon shadows within, constantly emitting earth-shaking roars.

    The divine deterrence exuded by it was in no way inferior to the lethal force of the Azure Lotus Sword Prison.

    This was the Sacred Dragon Rune Prison!

    The Sacred Dragon Rune Prison, swirling around the Prison Warden Sigil, enhanced all attributes of the sigil.

    And this was just the beginning!

    "Forming a Rune Prison with the Prison Warden Sigil seemed so effortless; I wonder if the Sigil Suppression Gate will even be necessary in the future?" Yun Xiao pondered.

    After all, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul no longer needed a Sword Suppression Gate!

    Though this time there had been no disturbance to stir the hearts of the Thunder Department Immortals, Yun Xiao was quite pleased with the smooth execution.

    Once the Rune Prison formed, the Sigil Suppression Gate ceased operation and no longer targeted Yun Xiao, floating upwards instead!

    The Prison Warden Sigil, now endowed with a Rune Prison, descended like a colossal violet dragon, spiraling around Yun Xiao.

    The youth, surrounded by dragons, radiated a holy brilliance!

    Unlike the sheer deathly force of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, the Prison Warden Sigil endowed him with a noble and domineering aura, awe-inspiring to all who beheld it.

    It was only then that more Immortals from the Thunder Department arrived from various ces!

    They had intended to stop Yun Xiao and preserve the Sigil Suppression Gate, only to find everything had already concluded upon their arrival!

    No disturbance had urred?

    Those divine beings of the Thunder Department, seeing Yun Xiao walking away from the Sigil Suppression Gate, finally breathed a sigh of relief.

    "That was close, very close."

    "Luckily, his Life Sigil isn¡¯t as defiant as his Sword Soul."

    "That kid¡¯s Life Sigil must be just for show."

    Yun Xiao''s swordsmanship had already shaken the Celestial Court; if his Life Sigil were of the same caliber, the others felt they might as well not even try!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Who is that perfect, anyway?"

    "This is actually normal!"

    With the Sigil Suppression Gate safe, everyone rxed and left with smiles.

    Yun Xiao was well aware of their psychological shifts.

    "Wait until I arrive at the Divine Gateway; then you''ll know if my Life Sigil is really just for show."

    All this time, Yun Xiao had been using the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, and he was eager to use his Life Sigil to enrich his arsenal.

    "The Buddha''s Treasure Art and Prison Warden Sigil should synchronize better with the Rune Prison," Yun Xiao mused.

    All the while, he reflected on the insights he gained from observing the Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts in the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau.

    "Just need a little time to integrate everything." Yun Xiao smiled. He was looking forward to the fighting styles he''d adopt in theing days.

    At dawn, the Thunder Department would gather the nine finalists of the selection to set out, and the time tonight and on the way to the Divine Gateway was critical for him.

    "You''ve observed some celestial techniques, and you''ve condensed a Rune Prison. It''s time for you to head back and get some rest now, isn''t it?" Gu Suwan stepped forward and asked softly.

    Yun Xiao, ever the wildcard, made Gu Suwan feel she had done enough favors for now. It was time to draw the line.

    ¡°Too many in the Thunder Department are jealous of me; escort me back to the Hall of Soaring Thunder,¡± Yun Xiao requested of Gu Suwan.

    In her thoughts, Gu Suwan mused, ¡°If you were that easy to kill, you¡¯d be dead already!¡±

    Yet, how could she refuse a request from her foster son? Under the watchful gazes of countless people, Gu Suwan escorted Yun Xiao back to the protective confines of the Hall of Soaring Thunder.

    Then, after reaching his destination, Yun Xiao turned to her and said, ¡°Mother, I find myself embarrassingly short on resources, which severely hampers my cultivation. Representing the Thunder Department in the uing tournament, I¡¯d hate to embarrass our faction. Might I boldly ask to borrow some funds?¡±

    "..." Gu Suwan knew it; he had no good reason for asking her to escort him back. With a resigned look, she asked bluntly, "How much do you need?"

    "Five hundred thousand True Immortal Jades,¡± Yun Xiao replied without hesitation.

    ¡°F-five hundred thousand?¡± Gu Suwan was stunned. It was a significant sum, not because she couldn¡¯t afford it, but because it pained her to part with so much money.

    She might be inclined to agree if it were her own children. But for a foster son who could betray her at any moment? She''d be aplete fool.

    Gu Suwan was hesitating, trying to think of a way to politely decline the young man.

    But then, Yun Xiao''s expression suddenly hardened, his voice turning cold, "500,000 True Immortal Jades to buy back your life. Given all the things you''ve tried to pull behind my back, consider it a bargain."

    With those words, any pretense of a mother-son bond evaporated, leaving only a threat.

    A young man, seemingly insignificant, was threatening a powerful Lightning Duchess of the Thunder Department¡ªand he was winning the psychological battle.

    ¡°Are you trying to bluff?¡± Gu Suwan¡¯s brow furrowed, her displeasure growing.

    ¡°You could gamble and see if your life¡¯s as sturdy as you think,¡± Yun Xiao suggested.

    His words sounded almost like an outright robbery.

    The two had enjoyed their time together until now, but Yun Xiao choosing this moment to make such a demand indeed soured the mood. Not bowing now meant all their prior bonding was for naught.

    "You''re already taking a gamble anyway, either with your money or your life!"

    Yun Xiao''s true nature and potential would soon be revealed at the Divine Gateway''s Immortal Tournament.

    Normally, someone as brash as him wouldn¡¯t likely have a substantial background. But here was Gu Suwan, gambling with her life. What if he wasn''t bluffing? Did she need to risk her life over 500,000 True Immortal Jades?

    Yun Xiao¡¯s talents were no facade.

    At that moment, Gu Suwan''s mind was in turmoil.

    ¡°You scoundrel,¡± she suddenly chided, ncing at Yun Xiao as she straightened his cor. Her hand rested on his chest as she reproached, ¡°Is this how you scare your elders? It''s impolite.¡±

    ¡°I''m sorry,¡± Yun Xiao said with a lightugh.

    ¡°To err is human, to forgive, divine.¡± Gu Suwan fumbled inside her robe, eventually producing a Grand Bag of Holding. She ced it in Yun Xiao¡¯s hand, whispering, ¡°Here are 800,000 True Immortal Jades, my personal savings, as a reward for your ascent to the Nine Heavens Thunder Rankings. Spend it as you wish.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, mother!¡± Yun Xiao took the Bag of Holding, feeling its heft. With a smile, he waved her off, ¡°Take care, no need to see me out.¡±

    Inside, Gu Suwan cursed the greedy, domineering youth 1,000 times over, her heart bleeding, yet her face bore a tender, maternal smile as she admonished him repeatedly before leaving.

    ¡°I wonder if she¡¯ll tell your foster father how his foster son took advantage of her, and even forced her to hand over 800,000 True Immortal Jades,¡± Blue Star said, peeking out from Yun Xiao''s embrace.

    ¡°A wife¡¯s secrets should not trouble her husband,¡± Red Moon stated earnestly.

    ¡°You seem to know a lot,¡± Blue Star looked at his chest disdainfully.

    ¡°If you disagree, bite me.¡± Red Moon chuckled.

    The Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts, the Sacred Dragon Rune Prison, and 800,000 True Immortal Jades, Yun Xiao¡¯s gains for the day might have even surpassed those of the massacre in Sky Soaring City.

    ¡°You have my thanks, Chaos Sovereign.¡± Yun Xiao chuckled.

    It was unlikely that even the Chaos Sovereign could have imagined that his simple congrattory message would allow Yun Xiao, on the eve before the end of the Immortal Tournament, to amass yet another significant advancement in his cultivation!

    Gu Suwan was dragged into Yun Xiao¡¯s schemes once more, leaving her and Cao Sheng no choice but to bet on the fact that he was the son of the Chaos Sovereign.

    Those not yet ensnared watched and waited!

 Chapter 612: Like a Fish on the Chopping Block!

    Chapter 612: Like a Fish on the Chopping Block!

    Apart from Cao Sheng and Gu Suwan, it seemed no one truly wished for the rumors about Yun Xiao''s identity to be true.

    "My reputation in the Thunder Department might be soaring right now. But the moment the truth about the rtionship between me and the Chaos Sovereign is revealed, I''ll instantly be its greatest shame." Yun Xiao''s gaze was icy as he stared into the dark sky.

    But would the truth actuallye out? That depended on the Chaos Sovereign himself. If he acknowledged it, it wouldn''t. If he denied it, trouble would brew.

    This wasn''t a position Yun Xiao had sought actively; it was the Chaos Sovereign himself who had sent the flying talisman. Yun Xiao was merely adapting logically.

    "I''d be a fool if I left money just sitting on the table."

    And just like that, 800,000 True Immortal Jades were in his hands!

    Both status and resources were secured.

    Yun Xiao flung the True Immortal Jades towards Blue Star and Red Moon, then waited for them to digest it. For now, he didn¡¯t need the Origin Orbs; what he needed was the Tri Heaven Sariras to reach the Celestial Expanse Realm.

    Everything was progressing smoothly!The only thing increasing Yun Xiao¡¯s anxiety was Cao Shuo.

    "We agreed to a mighty sh of 300 rounds tonight, and she¡¯s nowhere to be seen?" Yun Xiao muttered.

    This wasn''t like Cao Shuo. She was bold in love and swift in action.

    "Could something have happened..."

    A chill ran through Yun Xiao¡¯s heart.

    In the vast Thunder Department, and with Yun Xiao being alone, finding one person was nearly impossible.

    "Got it."

    After a moment, Yun Xiao devised a n. No longer fearing the crowd¡¯s thoughts, he sent his spirit soaring, smashing into the Thunder Immortal Formation and reaching its core.

    <em>RUMBLE! </em>As Yun Xiao''s spirit merged with the grand formation, his willpower thunderously expanded.

    In an instant, the formation surged with electric serpents, condensing above the Thunder Department into a colossal thunderous visage of the Creator Immortal.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The visage reappeared, and all the Immortals of the Thunder Department felt a profound shock.

    "It happened again!"

    "That''s definitely Lu Yao''s face!"

    "Is his spirit controlling the thunder again?"

    This was the moment Yun Xiao reached the pinnacle of power within the Thunder Department, where his disy of innate talent was met with shock and awe.

    Envy and hatred were rare, extremely rare.

    For a moment, countless Immortals in the Thunder Department were deeply intimidated, and some even bowed deeply in reverence to Yun Xiao.

    Just then, the thunderous colossal face suddenly spoke with a voice like a thousand thunders, "Cao Shuo, meet me in the Hall of Soaring Thunder in half an hour."

    After speaking fiercely, the massive face of thunder vanished.

    The Thunder Immortal Formation slowly returned to normal, and the lightning between heaven and earth gradually subsided.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, the shock this event caused was likely to linger long in the hearts of the masses.

    "That''s incredible, using the Thunder Immortal Formation to set a date."

    "That''s what you call romantic!"

    "Lucky Thunder Emissary Cao."

    People chatted, all wishing they could witness the scene at the Hall of Soaring Thunder. But they dared not. What they didn''t know was that Cao Shuo didn''t appear at the Hall of Soaring Thunder after the set time.

    "That means she''s really in trouble." Yun Xiao knew she wouldn''t have left the Thunder Department without seeing him.

    Now fearless and powerful, Cao Shuo didn''t need to hide with him around!

    How could she note to meet him?

    It was only then that Yun Xiao realized he cared for her. Though it was hard to speak of liking, let alone love, at the very least, there had been a deep, fiery passion that had mingled within their hearts.

    This emotion, born of the joy between a man and a woman, was also pure and real.

    Unable to sit still any longer, Yun Xiao strode alone through the night to the Cao Immortal Manor.

    At the entrance of the estate, someone expected his arrival and was waiting for him.

    The man sat on the steps. Yet, he appeared as tall as those standing. He was dressed in thunderous battle armor, hisrge frame like a mountain, bald-headed with two venomous little snakes coiled around his ears.

    It was General Cao.

    "She might have left the Thunder Department," Cao Sheng said calmly upon seeing Yun Xiao.

    No matter whose son Yun Xiao was, he was not the type to bow down.

    "Do not anger me," Yun Xiao stood before him, his voice cold.

    Cao Sheng knew he wouldn''t be believed, so he rose and said, "Fine, I''ll use my connections to help search within the Thunder Department."

    "Did Gu Zhenxiao or Yun Yin take her? Or was it the Moon Sword Goddess? Or did they coborate?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Don''t talk nonsense." Cao Sheng shook his head.

    "No matter who it was, tell them I am vengeful," Yun Xiao stated coldly.

    "You''re really misunderstanding," Cao Sheng took a deep breath and said, "Honestly, our families in the Thunder Department have been allies for generations. There might be minor conflicts, but there are boundaries. And Cao Shuo has the status of a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer; she wouldn''t just vanish."

    "So you mean to say it was you who took her," Yun Xiao said.

    "I didn''t say that. Don''t twist my words," Cao Sheng said sternly.

    "You better release her tonight. If I don''t see her before I depart tomorrow, I will hold no goodwill towards the Thunder Department anymore," Yun Xiao didn¡¯t really listen to him but instead spoke his mind, convinced of his stance.

    Cao Sheng fell silent at his words.

    "Why bother? You don¡¯t even like her," he said after a moment.

    "It¡¯s not about liking her," Yun Xiao looked at Cao Sheng, his voice icy. "She has been good to me, which means she is destined for good fortune. No one should mistreat her."

    "Wow, how admirable." Cao Sheng gave a thumbs up.

    "Pass on the message." Yun Xiao said before turning to leave. He knew he would get no more information.

    The real shakers and movers of the Thunder Departments were elsewhere.

    The conflicts between Yun Xiao and the Thunder Department outweighed everything else. The only reluctance he felt was that he had risen with its resources. So, there was still a trace of tolerance and obligation.

    And Cao Shuo was Yun Xiao''s only link to the Thunder Department. If they did not cherish this link, he would only be more disappointed. At least, he had given them a chance!

    After Yun Xiao left, Gu Suwan emerged from the Cao Immortal Manor.

    "What are you trying to do? I put in all that effort cozying up to him, and you ended up pissing him off," Gu Suwan said with a hint of reproach.

    "And how exactly did you cozy up to him?" Cao Sheng''s eyes shed with thunder.

    "Don''t listen to those foolish gossipers; they love to stir trouble." Gu Suwan soothed her husband as she clung to his arm. "Just keep calm. After all, it wasn''t you who moved against Cao Shuo. Why should his wrath fall on you?"

    "Do you really think he might be the son of the Chaos Sovereign? Do you know the more a man boasts, the less he usually has? His current arrogance only highlights hisck of backing," Cao Sheng said coldly.

    "The problem is, you are his sworn father. Is it worth the gamble? You and I, by appearing toply, whatever the oue, we win. Why confront him directly?" Gu Suwan said helplessly.

    Cao Sheng cooled down a bit at that. Then, he gritted his teeth. "This boy is too arrogant, threatening the entire Thunder Department. Honestly, I want to smash him into a pulp."

    "Just bear with it. You believe he''s corrupted your little sister. So, it''s normal to feel resentful," Gu Suwan said.

    "Hah¡­" Cao Sheng sighed.

    "Was it the Nine Thunders Sovereign?" Gu Suwan asked.

    "It must be; he''s returned," Cao Sheng replied.

    "That''s trouble. It''s an internal matter of the Thunder Department, and he has his prestige in the Celestial Court. He won''t step aside for the Chaos Sovereign," Gu Suwan worried.

    "The Nine Thunders Sovereign has had his eye on Cao Shuo for a while. She''s always been a problem child. Even without Lu Yao, she was bound to face severe reprimand." Cao Sheng sighed.

    "You still care about her, don''t you?" Gu Suwan red at him. "Stop it, okay? Even if there''s a rift between Lu Yao and the Nine Thunders Sovereign, what¡¯s that to us? If his background is genuine, we benefit; if not, we just kick him when he''s down. Don''t confront him in anger; that¡¯s a losing proposition."

    "Should I pass on that boy''s message to the Nine Thunders Sovereign?" Cao Sheng, feeling his anger cloud his judgment, still needed to heed his wife¡¯s counsel.

    "Report what? Did the Nine Thunders Sovereign tell you he took Cao Shuo?" Gu Suwan asked incredulously.

    "No."

    "Then there you go. What''s it to you?" Gu Suwan rolled her eyes.

    "Right..." Cao Sheng took a deep breath, his gaze following Yun Xiao as he departed.

    "Though we need not get involved, honestly, I am certain this boy will die at the Divine Gateway, and it will be a gruesome end. His ways might work in the Thunder Department. But in the heart of the Celestial Court, he''s like a fish on the chopping block, thinking he¡¯s slippery, only to be split head from tail with one hack."

    Gu Suwan rolled her eyes. "Again, that''s none of your concern."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 613: Nine Thunders Divine Ark

    Chapter 613: Nine Thunders Divine Ark

    In the quiet hours past midnight, the Hall of Soaring Thunder was dead silent

    The Thunder Department selection had drawn to a close. The names of nine freshly minted Rank 6 Heavenly Officers shone brilliantly on the Thunder Rankings, drawing the envy and aspiration from the young talents of this vastnd.

    To belong to the Thunder Department, regardless of rank, meant being an Arbiter.

    Although the nine finalists possessed no real power just yet, it wouldn''t be long before they did. Among them, the name Lu Yao caught the most attention.

    Yun Xiao had ryed this news through Moon Fairy to Liu Mumu and Miss Yu, which immediately caused the two to burst into tears of joy. He cared about these two deeply, and knowing that this news brought them such joy and pride filled him with satisfaction.

    He had fulfilled a dream of Lu Yao. Now, every Immortal across the Thunder Department remembered the name of that unremarkable Rank 9 Arbiter Initiate from Sky Soaring City.

    But even in this moment of sce, the disappearance of Cao Shuo stirred unease in Yun Xiao. The fact that she still hadn''t returned sote into the night likely meant whoever had taken her away was unwilling to let her go.

    "Is he waiting for me to meet my downfall at the Divine Gateway?" Yun Xiao mused to himself. He''d gained a thorough understanding of all the high officials of the Thunder Department. Apart from Cao Shuo, all of them were self-righteous and self-serving.

    "Well, let''s see..." Yun Xiao closed his eyes and focused. Within the darkness, his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit wrapped in dense azure spiritual lightning, manifested the appearance of the Creator Immortal. It was an elegant and righteous presence, subtly aligned with the Prison Warden Sigil, radiating a sense of sacred solemnity and profoundpassion.

    After practicing the Buddha''s Treasure Art, Yun Xiao''s spirit contained the expanse of the cosmos, bing vivid and lifelike. Viewing the world through this enlightened perspective, his emotions¡ªjoy, wrath, greed, and foolishness¡ªseemed purified, his desires washed away, leaving him serene and desireless.

    Within Yun Xiao''s body was the Primordial Void, and within his soul and spirit, the cosmos itself.

    "Spirit and will as one, soar through the celestial expanse!" Yun Xiao muttered.

    From the Divine Self Realm to the Celestial Expanse Realm required one critical process. The spirit had to detach from the fleshly body and travel a far enough distance; it was a feat that demanded a leap in the quality of the spirit, both in power and resilience.

    Now, after reaching the Establishment Divine Self Realm and learning the Buddha''s Treasure Art, Yun Xiao was qualified to step into the next realm.

    "Lord Lu was at this level too. He tried to use his spirit to assassinate me from a distance; now, it''s my turn for my spirit to ascend the celestial expanse too¡­" Yun Xiao murmured. The Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand transformed into a three-inch Flying Sword and circled his fingertip.

    His spirit, not even an inch tall, held the tiny Flying Sword. His spirit and Sword Soul unified; his thoughts and intentions became one.

    "Go!" Yun Xiaomanded. His spirit, aboard the Flying Sword, soared out of the Hall of Soaring Thunder and flew into the distance!

    Viewing the world through the perspective of his spirit was profoundly different. He could more clearly see the Celestial Sourcecore, the flow of celestial power, and magic formations. Meanwhile, the people, buildings, and streets appeared to fade to clouds and smoke.

    The world became a vast tapestry of energy¡ªonly power and perception mattered.

    From this vantage point, the essence of the world seemed clearer, offering Yun Xiao a revtion that shook him to the core.

    "The dao realm consists of energy and consciousness; all else is irrelevant."

    Beings were merely parts of consciousness.

    The Buddha''s Treasure Art represented the most fundamental form of consciousness.

    The Celestial Sourcecore and spiritual essence of heaven and earth were the fundamental energies.

    "All things under heaven are born of energy and consciousness!" Yun Xiao remarked.

    Aftering to this realization, his spirit roamed the heavens and earth more freely, no longer just a part of the body but now the essence of his consciousness.

    The body was merely a vessel for energy. Consciousness existed between heaven and earth on its own. Separated from energy, consciousness could still traverse the world.

    And, of course, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul was also a vessel for energy,plementing the spirit.

    Though still slightly perturbed, Yun Xiao entered a state of self-forgetfulness, soaring above the sacrednd of the Thunder Department with his spirit, observing the many Immortals below.

    Yun Xiao saw not their expressions or gestures but the oscitions of their spirits and energies. At the center of each Immortal, where the Dantiany, the intery of spirit and celestial power created ripples, like the Buddha''s Treasure Art, storing each person¡¯s karma and thoughts.

    The ripples were enchanting.

    "Is this ripple what we call humanity?" Yun Xiao wondered, a hum vibrating through his consciousness.

    In such a revtion, all worldly things¡ªincluding love, hate, passion, and desire¡ªdrifted away, losing their significance.

    "No wonder, the higher a cultivator climbs, the colder they be, the more they disregard life. In the realm of energy and consciousness, life is equal, but consciousness is not; the greater the consciousness, the more it tends to consume the lesser. In this world of energy and consciousness, there are no morals, no good or evil, just a convergence into one."

    For Yun Xiao, this truth was a harsh one, for it lent a sort of righteousness to those advocating the incense offerings, a notion deeply unsettling to him.

    His spirit took a deep breath, a gesture that helped him recover from his shock momentarily.

    "That''s not right..." Yun Xiao''s gaze intensified. "Just because it''s like this doesn''t mean it''s correct. If I were the Creator Immortal setting the framework of the dao realm, then the concept of righteousness would merely be foreign to me. If I remained that emotionless being, holding the mandate of heaven, then nothing would change. But now, the Creator Immortal has fallen and been reborn¡­

    "This perhaps means that there are ws and problems with my past obsessions. Since I''ve been reborn, it''s not to follow the fixations of my past life but to identify ws now and forge new paths, to create a better world."

    This was undoubtedly the most crucial realization in Yun Xiao''s spiritual journey. To remake himself as the old Creator Immortal? What would be the point of returning to a fallen past?

    Now, having gained control of the Ten Primordial Coffins and transformed two Dao Sources into a Sword Soul and a Life Sigil, Yun Xiao''s new path should be to surpass the Creator Immortal.

    To transcend, Yun Xiao should not ept everything about this dao realm as the cold hard truth, but should view it from the fresh perspective of a mortal, from the ground up.

    With this thought, Yun Xiao suddenly felt at ease. His thoughts became grander, his spirit bold!

    "Beyond energy and consciousness, does a third fundamental element exist in this world? If itcks this foundation, is the Dao imperfect? Is it destined for destruction? What is this third foundation?" Yun Xiao pondered this question.

    His spirit, riding the Flying Sword, traveled further and further, not just reaching the celestial expanse but surpassing it, invisibly flying to the very edge of the sacrednd of the Thunder Department.

    Today, Yun Xiao had found no answers, but his eyes zed with the certainty that this path would lead to them eventually. He looked back at the intertwining lightning of the Thunder Immortal Formation, his gaze then drifting to the multitudes moving within theplex web of consciousness, his heart filled with myriad thoughts.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Time to return."

    Yun Xiao''s spirit, diminutive yet determined, turned around and mounted the Flying Sword, stylishly retreating over a trail of azure lightning snakes. This journey had nurtured his spirit to a sufficient strength.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As Yun Xiao''s spirit returned to his Dantian, settling upon the Primordial Sacred Wheel and Worldly Dao Heart, it was as though he found his meditation mat. His energy and consciousness merged into one. He sped his hand in prayer and beheld the world, his heart free of scars.

    The Primordial Void began to rotate, absorbing the Tri Heaven Sariras, growing ever more formidable.

    Another hum marked Yun Xiao''s step into the fourth realm of the Third Dao Tribtion¡ªthe Celestial Expanse Realm!

    His physical body, spirit, Sword Soul, and Life Sigil all leaped in evolution.

    As dawn''s light crept over the Thunder Department, another night had passed.

    "Cao Shuo still hasn''t returned." Yun Xiao was not perturbed; after all, with his origins undisclosed, none would dare harm her.

    "If I use the Thunder Immortal Formation to st Cao Shuo out now, then I can''t go to the Divine Gateway."

    With this thought, only one pathy before him.

    As the zing divine light of the earth and sky shone into the cultivation chamber of the Hall of Soaring Thunder, Yun Xiao looked up towards the direction of the Divine Gateway and murmured, "Chaos Sovereign Lu, you owe the Lu Family mother and sons so much. It''s about time you pay them back."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At dawn, Gu Suwan came looking for Yun Xiao. She had stayed away the previous night when Yun Xiao had gone to seek out Cao Sheng, and now she pretended to be unaware of Cao Shuo''s circumstances. She knocked softly at the door, her voice gentle, "Yao''er, your mother is here to take you to the Nine Thunders Arena. Everyone is gathering there to head to the Divine Gateway together."

    Releasing anyone wasn''t really within Gu Suwan''s power. So, Yun Xiao saw no point in holding her ountable, especially right after receiving 800,000 True Immortal Jades from her household.

    Yun Xiao straightened his clothes and donned his Rank 9 Arbiter armor before stepping outside.

    "Why not change into something else? I''ve prepared something for you," Gu Suwan suggested, pulling a splendidly ornate, protective robe of gold thread and jade from her Bag of Holding.

    "No need. For the Immortal Tournament, it''s fitting to wear the uniform," Yun Xiao said, pushing her hand away and striding out.

    "This child..." Gu Suwan muttered, taking his mood to be a tantrum over Cao Shuo''s situation, and let him be.

    Catching up to him, she added, "The Thunder Department rules state that of the nine distinguished Arbiters going to the Divine Gateway, only one family member can apany each. Your foster father is busy with Thunder Department duties, so it''ll just be your mother cheering you on."

    Yun Xiao didn''t reply and simply rode his Flying Sword to the Nine Thunders Arena.

    With a resigned smile, Gu Suwan followed, cooing and cajoling as if dealing with a child''s mood.

    Upon reaching the Nine Thunders Arena, everyone seemed ready to depart.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see a massive violet thunder ship beside the Thunder Rankings, resembling a deep-sea leviathan with nine thunderous eyes on its crown. These eyes shot out endless lightning snakes that wrapped around the ship, bursting and shing with thunderous light.

    These nine thunderous eyes were Celestial Sourcecores driving the giant ship.

    "Quick, get on the Nine Thunders Divine Ark. They''re all up there," Gu Suwan urged gently.

    Yun Xiao nced at her and asked, "Has the Nine Thunders Sovereign returned?"

    "Not yet," Gu Suwan smiled. "With such arge group of us heading to the Divine Gateway for the Immortal Tournament, it must be done with grandeur. So, the Nine Thunders Sovereign personally lent us his vessel."

    "Okay."

    Without further questions, Yun Xiao and Gu Suwan ascended through the dense lightning of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark andnded on the opulent deck of the luxurious ship.

    Around thirty people were gathered!

    The head of the group, whom Yun Xiao had just met the previous night, was the Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General Yun Yin. He held a ne strung with nine thunder beads, likely the control core of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark.

    After seeing Yun Xiao, Yun Yin softly smiled. "Good. Everyone''s gathered. Now, my dear young talents of the Thunder Department, let us depart!"

 Chapter 614: Shes Accounted For, Dont Overstep!

    Chapter 614: She''s ounted For, Don''t Overstep!

    The nine thunderous eyes of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark unleashed vast streams of energy from their Celestial Sourcecores, igniting the ship''s arrays. The divine vessel shuddered, abruptly turned, and then surged into the sky, rocketing towards the east with a roar!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Nine Thunders Divine Ark sliced through the skies of the Thunder Department, speeding beneath the Thunder Immortal Formation and drawing cheers from the masses below.

    "Victory at the outset, triumphant return!"

    The Immortal Tournament was a martial tournament for Arbiters. This glory belonged to the Arbiters of the Celestial Court. Whether it was the champion, runner-up, or third ce, all should havee from the Thunder Department.

    Why should these honors go to outsiders?

    For years, the Thunder Department had simmered with resentment over this, a stain on their honor, yet without remedy.

    "This time, each participant is a dragon among men, this is our most hopeful generation!"

    "We have nine spots in the battle; we must at least secure third ce¡­"

    "Third ce? This time, the daughter of our Nine Thunders Sovereign herself is joining the tournament! She''ll surely be the champion!The Thunder Department was abuzz with talk.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Soon, the divine vessel burst out of the sacrednd and began its voyage through the Great Dao Celestial Realm, where the surrounding void boiled with fiery chaos. The ark''s electrics shed with rolling celestial fires, creating explosions of thunder and fire that were deafening!

    "All nine of you, assemble!" Yun Yin let the ship navigate automatically before reemerging on the deck.

    The nine finalists of the Thunder Department''s selection lined up before Yun Yin.

    It was said that this selection had been a breeding ground for elites, many of whom had hidden their true capabilities. Now, the nine chosen were the cream of the crop, the weakest among them at least being on the level of Feng Qi.

    "Supreme General."

    A group of valiant and respectful youths greeted him.

    Yun Yin swept his gaze over them, his eyes finally resting on Yun Xiao as he spoke gravely, "Regarding thest stage at the Divine Gateway, I won''t say much. Just remember, once you enter the Divine Gateway, every action you take represents the honor of the entire Thunder Department.

    "Although the final battle is also an elimination round, I hope you can support each other. You have a promising chance this time. But be warned, the other seven honorary Arbiters are also stronger than in previous generations. If you persist in your internal strife, it will only bring further disgrace to the Thunder Department. Understand?"

    "Understood."

    In short, the nine representatives of the Thunder Department needed unity.

    Among these nine, there was just one who did not favor unity, and that was Yun Xiao.

    So, when Yun Yin spoke, his gaze was fixed upon him. After finishing, he asked, "Do you know any of your fellow representatives?"

    "No," Yun Xiao replied.

    "The journey is long, get to know each other, enhance your bond," Yun Yin suggested with a smile. "Youth should be spent with the young. Set aside your differences, and you might bring eternal glory to the Thunder Department."

    With those words, Yun Yin entered the cabin, leaving Yun Xiao alone with the other eight representatives in silence.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yao''er,e here," Gu Suwan, understanding Yun Yin''s intentions, approached Yun Xiao and guided him by the shoulder to meet his <em>teammates</em>.

    She introduced him first to a young girl.

    In truth, Yun Xiao knew of her already.

    From the start of the Thunder Department''s selection, she had been the most stunning, the center of attention. She was a girl with violet hair and eyes, her hair a lighter shade than most, tinged with soft blue, giving it an exquisite quality.

    Her appearance and figure were arguably superior to that of Bai Ling''er.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t quite put into words her beauty; it was exquisitely perfect. Whether it was her skin, her features, or her aura, there was not a w to be found. She was spirited yet serene, ethereal yet celestial.

    Beyond her ethereal beauty and charm, she carried an elevated demeanor, a sense of dominion as if she stood above the celestial thunder, which made her seem disinterested in everything since day one.

    She was indeed the daughter of the Nine Thunders Sovereign!

    She hadn''t grown up in the Thunder Department, yet she was known as the department''s most beautiful woman.

    In contrast to the down-to-earth Thunder Emissary Cao, she seemed like a celestial being too ethereal for earthly matters, unapproachable to most.

    Yun Xiao remembered her name was Nine Kites. Her beauty was almost divine, approaching that of Lian Xi.

    However, Yun Xiao had hardly interacted with her from the beginning to the end. Given her aloof nature, he had no desire to get closer.

    At this moment, Nine Kites was dressed in a violet dress adorned with pearls and jewels that twinkled faintly. Her hair was decorated with silver ornaments, with strands of blue and purple lightning weaving through her hair and dress.

    After the introductions, Gu Suwan whispered into Yun Xiao''s ear, "She is promised by imperial decree. After the Immortal Tournament, she will join the Celestial Court''s imperial family and marry the sixth prince. She is spoken for; do not overstep."

    "Am I that sort of man?" Yun Xiao replied.

    Gu Suwan eyed him critically and said, "You don''t look it, but it''s in your bones."

    She then introduced Yun Xiao to the others.

    Among them, like Feng Qi, there were three geniuses whose one parent was a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court.

    The first two were the son of Gu Zhenxiao named Gu Zhenshi, and the son of the Five Directions Barbaric Grand Thunder Marshal named Man Huo.

    Gu Zhenshi, much like his father, was a young man with tinum thunder wings sprouting from his back. He had a prominent nose and a somber demeanor, paying no heed to Gu Suwan.

    Man Huo, on the other hand, was a hulkparable to Cao Sheng, like a wild thunder bear, also quite aloof.

    There was also a handsome young man in white, whose father was Yun Yin, the head of today''s group. He was the only one who approached Yun Xiao warmly, greeting him, "Nice to meet you, Brother Lu. My name is Yun Xiao."

    "Yun Xiao?" Yun Xiao was startled, then asked, "Which Xiao?"

    "The <em>Xiao </em>for rustling in the wind." Yun Xiaoughed.

    The two shared nearly the same name! Fortunately, it wasn''t the <em>Xiao </em>for <em>leisurely and free</em>, or it might have confused even Yun Xiao himself.

    He was basically an alternate Yun Xiao, a Yun Alter.

    Aside from Yun Alter, the others left after exchanging a few words, including the daughter of the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    She spoke neither to Yun Xiao nor to anyone else, as she usually mingled with the royal princes and princesses, a ss above.

    "Because of what happened to Feng Qi, these guys don''t have a great impression of you, please understand," Yun Alter exined.

    "And you?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "I didn¡¯t get along with Feng Qi, haha," Yun Alterughed.

    It seemed honest enough. Linked through their shared name, Yun Xiao chatted with him for a while, and so made at least one <em>friend</em>.

    As for the other seven, there was no direct conflict, but bing close was out of the question.

    "Here''s your key to your private cultivation room. Once we reach the Divine Gateway, there''ll be little time for rest before the battle begins. I need to brush up on some techniques myself." Yun Alter handed a key to Yun Xiao.

    "Thanks, see youter," Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    "Uh-huh."

    The two then parted ways, each heading into the cabin toward their respective cultivation rooms.

    Meanwhile, Gu Suwan lingered at the ship''s rail on the deck, engaging in casual conversation with other parents. They were all from the same circles and naturally acquainted.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the cabin of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, it was somewhat dim.

    Yun Xiao walked down a broad, open, and deep corridor, searching for his private cultivation room.

    The cultivation rooms on the Nine Thunders Divine Ark were luxurious, nine in total, each a separate and expansive space. It was said that each room contained various arrays that could aid in cultivating physical strength and celestial power.

    Yun Xiao nced down at his key, which was blue. As he had walked along, he''d seen doors to cultivation rooms colored red, ck, and white¡ªall closed, indicating others were already inside practicing.

    "The key is blue, so the door must be blue as well."

    Yun Xiao continued deeper into the ship. Soon, he came upon a door wrapped in a blue-violet hued lightning!

    The door was slightly ajar.

    "This is it."

    Curious to see what was inside, Yun Xiao quickened his pace and pushed the door open.

    Before he could step in, the sounds of electric currents from the Lightning Tempering Array within crackled, heightening his anticipation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The door swung open.

    Yun Xiao looked up. Before him unfolded a vast interior space, at its center a thunder array with a diameter of 100 meters, rising into a cylindrical tower teeming with tens of thousands of writhing electric snakes!

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao focused his gaze, then paused in astonishment.

    Inside the Lightning Tempering Array, unexpectedly, there were people¡ªnine of them, to be exact!

    Nine delicate figures hovered amidst the encircling lightning, their long hair flowing and their bodies shimmering with lightning, possibly to avoid damaging their clothes. So, none of the nine beauties wore a shred of fabric... a stunning scene fully in view!

    And they all looked exactly the same?

    <em>BOOM! </em>As Yun Xiao entered, the nine beauties simultaneously opened their violet-blue eyes, and thousands of electric snakes surged towards him.

    Each one was Nine Kites.

    "How did you get in here?" Her voice was chillingly cold.

    After she spoke, garments materialized upon their bodies, and they surged out of the Lightning Tempering Array, descending before Yun Xiao.

    "The door was open," Yun Xiao said.

    "Open or not, you shouldn''t have entered," Nine Kites replied, visibly angered, ring at Yun Xiao. Had it not been for his connection as the son of the Chaos Sovereign, she would have already taken action.

    Confused, Yun Xiao took out his blue key and said, "Isn¡¯t this the cultivation room assigned to me?"

    "You have a key for the blue door; this is the violet door," Nine Kites replied coldly.

    She had heard of Yun Xiao''s reputation, and now he seemed to confirm her suspicions of his ill repute.

    "Violet door?" Yun Xiao turned and pushed the door behind him, stating, "But this is blue, isn¡¯t it?"

    "Are you color-blind..." Nine Kites, unable to restrain her irritation and about to scold him, suddenly realized that the door indeed was blue.

    She had made the mistake. Taking a deep breath, she and the other eight gave Yun Xiao a cold look, then silently moved past him and headed outside.

    Once outside, she turned back, her expression frosty, "If you weren¡¯t the son of the Chaos Sovereign, I would have gouged out your eyes."

    Yun Xiao, who hadn''t been holding a grudge, now felt provoked. He scoffed, "Odd, isn¡¯t it? I''m a man who strolls among melons, who craves your in dumplings?"

    Nine Kites was aware of his rumors with Cao Shuo. But she had never heard such coarse talk in her life. She was left utterly speechless.

    "No, wait." Yun Xiao suddenly pped his forehead and said, "29 and 16 makes... You¡¯re far older than me, apologies."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "No, wait." Yun Xiao suddenly pped his forehead and said, "29 and 16 makes... You¡¯re far older than me, apologies."</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 615: Enforcing a Strict Hierarchy!

    Chapter 615: Enforcing a Strict Hierarchy!

    "Vulgar and crass, your words filthier than mud, your spirit cheap." Nine Kites stood at the doorway, fists clenched, lightning dancing in her nine pairs of eyes, rage burning in her chest.

    Nine Kites would eventually be married into the imperial family. Any other person would have suffered dire consequences for such an affront.

    The son of the Chaos Sovereign was perhaps the only exception, or else she truly wouldn''t have held back.

    "You think too highly of yourself." Yun Xiao, tired of her antics, mmed the cultivation room''s door shut. The impact sent the hair and dresses of the nine beauties flying, their faces colder than ever.

    It was all a misunderstanding. Nine Kites was the one who had wandered into the wrong ce. Had she not threatened to gouge out eyes, Yun Xiao wouldn''t have countered so fiercely.

    As for charming him with her beauty, such tactics were useless on Yun Xiao. His Creator Immortal physique was peerless, unrivaled by any man, needing no subservience to charm any beauty under heaven.

    After closing the door, Yun Xiao turned to the thunder array and chuckled helplessly. "My Rank 9 Arbiter armor can''t withstand this array. I''m going to make use of it, I''m going to have to take off my clothes!"

    And so, Yun Xiao did just that, removing his armor and tossing aside the various Bags of Holding and the small ck beast. Barefoot and naked, he stepped into the thunder array.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>Streams of electricity surged, weaving a dense of lightning over his skin, with sparks twining through his long hair, making him appear as a deity of thunder!"The Lightning Tempering Array forges the body by fusing flesh with celestial power, stimting growth! In such an environment, whatever you do, the efficiency is indeed higher." Yun Xiao quietly envied the resources avable to these elite second-generation Immortals of the Celestial Court.

    Suddenly, the cultivation room''s door trembled!

    <em>BANG! </em>The blue thunder door was kicked open!

    "Who?" Yun Xiao opened his eyes and looked toward the door.

    There stood nine stunning girls with blue-violet hair, their nine pairs of eyes ring at Yun Xiao, lips bitten in a silent snarl.

    "What the hell do you think you''re doing?" Yun Xiao asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

    "We''re even now!" the nine dered in unison, as if the mere utterance could dispel the anger in their hearts.

    After speaking, their eyes swept over Yun Xiao''s form, their heartbeats quickening, cheeks flushing. They quickly turned and left.

    "Close the door," Yun Xiao called out.

    "In your dreams!" she retorted, already far away.

    "Boring!" Yun Xiao flung his Flying Sword, striking the door and shutting it with a ng, before returning to his cultivation.

    Yun Xiao was currently in the Early Celestial Expanse Realm. Any further breakthroughs would require waiting for Blue Star and Red Moon to produce more Tri Heaven Sariras. So, he decided to dedicate this downtime to mastering the Thunder Department''s Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts.

    The first four grades of the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades were Common, Grand, Supreme, and Dao.

    Yun Xiao had skipped over Supreme grade and went straight to learning Dao grade celestial techniques. Once he mastered them, not only would he surpass his peers but he would also surpass his seniors like Cao Shuo, Cao Sheng, and Gu Suwan, reaching the same level as Yun Yin, Gu Zhenxiao, and Feng Xuan.

    The strength of these Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts was evident.

    Yun Xiao, having nced over these celestial techniques within the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, had almostpletely memorized them. But applying and mastering them would take more time.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Thunder Department and Divine Gateway sat on opposite points of the zing hot sphere called the Celestial Court. It was said this allowed the Heavenly Pce to project their authority and power over the greatest area.

    So, the journey from the Thunder Department to the Divine Gateway was the longest route in the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Immersed in his cultivation, Yun Xiao lost track of time. Suddenly, he heard Yun Yin''s voice, "We''re approaching the Divine Gateway; everyone, gather on the deck!"

    Yun Xiao had pretty much gained all the insights he could in the Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts anyway. So, he emerged from the thunder array, donned his Arbiter armor, and stepped out.

    Just outside his private cultivation room, Yun Xiao encountered Nine Kites, now a singr cold figure, who didn''t spare him a nce and walked straight ahead.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze lingered on her form, particrly her waist and hips, as he followed behind her.

    Nine Kites halted in her tracks, unable to tolerate his staring any longer. She turned around and nced at him icily. "What are you staring at?

    "The human body, crafted by the heavens, is endlessly fascinating. A woman''s rounded hips, like the perfect circle of the Dao, signify both birth and endless cycles," Yun Xiao replied, as if he were reciting the wisdom of the wise sages.

    "If you''re sick, just die and stop wasting air," Nine Kites snapped.

    "Just a sudden reflection, pay it no mind," Yun Xiao said, stepping past her and continuing on his way.

    Gu Suwan waved and smiled at Yun Xiao from the outside, saying, "Lu Yao,e out quickly. We''re nearing the Divine Gateway. It''s magnificent."

    For someone of Lu Yao''s standing, it was a lifetime''s dream to visit this core of the Celestial Court.

    Yun Xiao had long wished toe here as well. The Western Kunlun Mountains, the Immortal Asylum, and more¡ªall were here.

    The Immortal Asylum had flown here, and from the time it emerged from the Nine Hells, Yun Xiao had treated it as his personal possession.

    He hurried to the deck and looked ahead.

    With a hum, the fiery red celestial clouds parted, revealing two colossal dragon-wrapped columns at the horizon''s edge, majestic and towering like mighty mountains.

    These were the pirs of the Divine Gateway!

    The Divine Gateway, the solemn symbol of the Celestial Court, marked the heart of the Great Dao Celestial Realm... and yet, it was just a gate!

    Beyond this portaly the true Celestial Court.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze pierced through the Divine Gateway, peering into the dense, ethereal white celestial mist beyond. There, in contrast to the zing vastness of the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm,y the true exalted Heavenly Pce, a realm of Immortals!

    "The Divine Gateway is the only entrance to the Heavenly Pce''s divinend, a realm ten timesrger than the Thunder Department and the most exalted part of the Celestial Court. It''s untouched by the dark canopy, making it a ce of eternal day," Gu Suwan remarked, not so much exining to Yun Xiao as reflecting on her own dreams of reaching this ce as a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer.

    Indeed, as Gu Suwan had described, the divinend before them was sacred and vast, far grander than any mortal''s dream of a heavenly pce. Wrapped in white celestial mist, countless towers and lofty pavilions could be seen, their elegance sublime. Within, celestial music floated, and auspicious creatures roamed and raced in all directions, a scene of harmony and tranquility, where time stood still and spirits were lifted.

    "The Nine Thunders Divine Ark may not enter the Divine Gateway. We must disembark at the Celestial Steps below shortly," Yun Yin announced.

    The so-called Celestial Steps were a series of white jade steps leading to the Divine Gateway, extending downward like a sinuous, gigantic white dragon amidst the clouds.

    Not long after Yun Yin spoke, the Nine Thunders Divine Ark reached the base of these steps.

    Led by Yun Yin, a Rank 2 Heavenly Officier, the group disembarked. Solemnly, they stepped onto the white dragon steps, faces grave, ascending step by step.

    And so, the strictness of the Celestial Court''sws were evident.

    Yun Xiao treaded the Celestial Steps, looking up to see the Divine Gateway suspended high above, like twin colossi scrutinizing their subjectse to pay homage.

    "The Celestial Steps number 9,999 steps, serving as part of the divinend''s defensive array. Remember, you must tread each one to gain entry to the Divine Gateway. Miss even one, and you''ll be obliterated," Gu Suwan warned Yun Xiao as she noticed his casual pace.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao then realized that with each step, a mark like a small white dragon appeared under his foot.

    In essence, visitors needed to collect all 9,999 marks to ascend to the highest reaches of the Celestial Court!

    From this very first sacred step, it was clear how the Celestial Court impressed the rigid hierarchy upon everyone under its rule.

    "Does everyone have toplete the steps? Even the Nine Thunders Sovereign?" Yun Xiao asked in a low voice.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign was a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer and the overseer of the Thunder Department!

    "Yes... unless one has imperial blood or marries into the imperial family." After saying this, Gu Suwan nced at Nine Kites not far away and murmured, "With the imperial marriage, once Nine Kites joins the imperial family, both the Nine Thunders Sovereign and our Thunder Department''s status in the Great Dao Celestial Realm will rise."

    In short, it was nepotism and elitism at its finest. Those of royal kin were spared the scrutiny and did not need toboriously climb up each step.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Impressive."

    What Yun Xiao marveled at was this very structure of power within the Celestial Court.

    This was no mere ethereal pursuit of immortality by a cult; this was a celestial empire, extending the dynastic governance to its pinnacle. Such a mechanism was stable and powerful, yet should its rulers ever deviate towards malevolence, the consequences would be dire and inescapable.

    "The matter of incense offerings, is it the privilege of the Thunder Department or has corruption started from this core of the Celestial Court, now festering throughout the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm?"

    Yun Xiao had no evidence, but his journey to the Celestial Court''s divinend was driven by two motives: to check on the Immortal Asylum and to confirm this suspicion.

    He knew that if every petal of a once vibrant flower was decaying, it wasn''t the fault of the petals¡ªrather, the root had to be rotting.

    Now, having moved from petal to root, Yun Xiao wished to see firsthand if the core was indeed thoroughly corrupted.

    A total of 9,999 steps, each taken with solemn reverence. A journey he could have flown in moments took a grueling hour on foot!

    Such was the so-called pilgrimage to the Celestial Court!

    By the end, Yun Xiao was more than displeased; he now wanted nothing more than to flip the whole ce over.

    "We''ve arrived." With Yun Yin''s heartyugh ahead, the stifling ascent finally ended.

    After collecting 9,999 tiny white dragon marks under his feet, Yun Xiao passed between the twin dragon-wrapped columns of the Divine Gateway and officially stepped onto the Celestial Court''s divinend!

    Passing through the Divine Gateway felt like crossing a barrier, and the marks under his feet vanished.

    This meant if he had to make the journey again, it would take anotherborious hour, treading each step earnestly.

    "Inside the Divine Gateway, one must be solemn, stern, and efficient," Gu Suwan instructed.

    "Understood." Yun Xiao looked ahead through the endless celestial mist to the sprawling pces.

    What a wondrous world!

    Compared to the Thunder Department, this ce was truly dreamlike, everywhere radiating an atmosphere of peace and prosperity.

    "People from the Thunder Department,e forward for inspection!"

    Just as Yun Xiao was taking it all in, two deafening voices called out ahead. Looking forward, he saw two giants each 50 feet tall shouting at them!

    "Not beasts?"

    Standing as tall as several storied pagodas, Yun Xiao only reached their ankles! He had thought they might be beasts, but upon closer inspection, these two divine gatekeepers were indeed human!

 Chapter 616: Reappearance of Divine Dawn!

    Chapter 616: Reappearance of Divine Dawn!

    How could there be such towering figures?

    Yun Xiao peered closer, discovering a hidden mystery. These two robust giants d in precious armor had somewhat grotesque faces, each crowned with a horn resembling that of a rhinoceros, their skin adorned with thick, ck scales!

    They were not beasts, yet bore a resemnce to half-human, half-devil creatures!

    This reminded Yun Xiao of the red-robed woman who had descended from the Celestial Court; she too had a devilish bloodline.

    Yet, even she wasn''t as beast-like in stature.

    Though bulky, size did not necessarily equate to strength. But these two divine gatekeepers guarding the Divine Gateway of the Celestial Court exuded an oppressive aura, like mountains of gold and silver, more terrifying even than General Yun Yin.

    Moreover, these two were tinged with devil blood, hinting at a dual cultivation of man and devil, their malevolent aura was intense, making Yun Xiao feel uneasy.

    "Those two are Great Horned Immortals, stationed year-round at the Divine Gateway. They''re ill-tempered. So, it''s best toply during the inspection and avoid any missteps," Gu Suwan advised.

    Yun Xiao was still her adopted son; any trouble at the hands of the Great Horned Immortals would be a headache for her too."Understood." Yun Xiao nodded.

    Next, the group of high officials and young talents from the Thunder Department underwent a security check under the brusque guidance of the two stern Great Horned Immortals.

    The process seemed perfunctory; they did not truly open the Bag of Holdings but merely sniffed their presence, verifying identities and such.

    The noses of the Great Horned Immortals were particrlyrge, likely quite capable of discerning much.

    "Turn into a coffin," Yun Xiao instructed Blue Star and Red Moon.

    "Okay."

    Once ready, it was soon Yun Xiao''s turn.

    One of the Great Horned Immortals, adorned with silver horns, did not even nce at Yun Xiao¡¯s credentials but directly grasped his arm, pulling him forward to sniff mightily at his presence.

    "Ugh, how foul! Haven¡¯t bathed in days, huh?" the Great Horned Immortal said with a look of disgust, tossing Yun Xiao aside.

    "Foul?" Yun Xiao paused, surprised. A young man of celestial grace and cleanliness like him was being scorned by a creature that looked more beast than man.

    Yun Xiao knew the giant was merely trying to harass him, seeking a petty sense of superiority. How pointless!

    "If we''re talking about scents, these two Great Horned Immortals carry the strongest whiff, simr to that of the Three Immortals," Blue Star suddenly spoke in a low tone.

    "Incense offerings?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes." Blue Star nodded.

    "It means their sins weigh heavier than others." Yun Xiao understood. There was no need for a closer examination. Even the gatekeepers were of this character; what more was there to verify?

    The Divine Gateway¡ªthis was the facade of the Celestial Court.

    "You can discern even smells like this?" Yun Xiao was only now catching on.

    "If it''s light, I hardly notice, but if it''s heavy, or they''ve been somewhere significant recently, it''s quite pronounced." Blue Star had transformed back into a small ck beast, sniffing the air.

    Having been inspected, Yun Xiao waited briefly before Gu Suwan informed him they would soon head to a nearby ce called Divine Heaven Pavilion to rest, and afterward, the final stage of the Immortal Tournament wouldmence.

    As the group prepared to depart, a thunderous noise suddenly filled the sky!

    Yun Xiao looked up to see, above the clouds, nine golden, five-wed divine dragons pulling a grand chariot, adorned with blossoming golden lotuses on its wheels, soaring above their heads and swiftly crossing the Divine Gateway!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Greetings to the Chaos Sovereign!"

    Before Yun Xiao and his group could react, the two Great Horned Immortals, as if seeing someone they deeply admired, excitedly knelt down, their eyes shining as they watched the nine-dragon chariot enter the divinend of the Celestial Court.

    In a blink, the chariot vanished!

    "Um?" Yun Xiao turned to Gu Suwan, asking with a faint smile, "Didn¡¯t you say everyone but the imperial family must tread the celestial steps?"

    Gu Suwan appeared momentarily dazed, then said, "Perhaps the Chaos Sovereign is the sole exception."

    Yun Xiao said no more.

    "To the Divine Heaven Pavilion." Yun Yin led the group once again, walking towards a pce amidst the celestial mist.

    The pce seemed near yet was quite far!

    They walked in silence until from behind, towards the direction of the Divine Gateway, noises erupted once more!

    This time it was more dramatic; sounds of battle reached them!

    Yun Yin was the first to react, turning back in shock, eximing, "Who dares to forcefully breach the Divine Gateway?!"

    This was surely among the most incredible events in the Celestial Court!

    The whole party turned around, stunned, looking toward the direction of the Divine Gateway.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Beneath the coiling dragon columns, the two Great Horned Immortals screamed like wild beasts, their scales bursting apart as blood gushed from their wounds, striking the ground with force.

    In panic, the two cried out, "Princess! Stop your assault!"

    The word <em>princess</em> sent a shiver through Yun Xiao.

    Looking up, at the heart of the Divine Gateway, thousands of thunderbolts converged, and mighty mes split the sky in two!

    Amidst the thunder and fire, a peerless maiden in a white dress floated against the sky, stirring the heavens,manding the divine, her presence unmatched!

    In her grasp was a chain, each end attached to spiked meteor hammers¡ªonerge, one small. These hammers, like stars, radiated brilliant light; one swirling with thunder, the other engulfed in mes!

    The smaller of the hammers had a diameter of about ten feet, but therger, a fiery one, was a massive fifty feet across¡ªbigger than the Great Horned Immortals themselves!

    Against her petite frame, it was like an ant swinging two massive hammers, creating a striking visual impact!

    Clearly, these were the Primordial Doom Stars that had appeared over Sky Soaring City!

    A terrifying pair of mother-son meteor hammers!

    "Lian Xi¡­" Yun Xiao watched her in awe.

    Amidst the spray of thunder and fire, her hair billowed, her skin dreamlike. Her zing eyes radiated endless fury, as if the heavens themselves were enraged. Her flowing white dress was intertwined with lightning and fire, giving her an unmatched air!

    The explosive and rugged beauty she emanated, a tragicpassion, was unlike anything else. Even the nine-bodied Nine Kites couldn''tpare. They might be of simr age, but they were not of the same kind.

    Was she Lian Xi whom Yun Xiao had brought up, or was she the Seventh Princess Divine Dawn, or perhaps Chen Xi, whom he could not stop thinking about?

    Yun Xiao was momentarily confused.

    All he knew was that at this moment, his longing for these three identities converged into one person!

    It was her!

    "Seventh Princess!!!"

    The entirety of Yun Yin''s group was struck breathless, their minds a nk te.

    Had Divine Dawn returned, resurfacing at the Divine Gateway after being missing for several days?

    But her return, why did it seem tinged with a towering rage?

    Before anyone could react, the maiden in white swung her massive meteor hammers, each many timesrger than her body, striking down from the heavens!

    The twin hammers fell like meteors, carrying with them fierce mes and thunder, aimed directly at the two Great Horned Immortals!

    "Princess, stop, noooo¡­!" The two Great Horned Immortals, in utter panic, scrambled to their feet, mustering every bit of their energy and blood force, roaring as they braced to meet the assault head-on!

    Yet, they underestimated the sheer violent force of the white-d girl.

    The meteor hammers, glittering with dazzling starlight, zed so brightly that everything else was obscured. Thunder and mes swept out, creating a sea of fire and lightning that covered the entire Divine Gateway!

    Two agonized screams burst forth.

    As the brilliance faded, the onlookers, including Yun Xiao, were shocked to see the head of one of the Great Horned Immortals had been smashed open, his body tumbling down the celestial steps, while the other was pulverized into a mash!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The aftershocks of the Primordial Doom Stars reverberated over the divinend of the Celestial Court, causing an earthquake across this vast continent. Such was the magnitude of her power!

    "Divine Dawn...!"

    Those who witnessed the scene were left gasping for breath!

    The Seventh Princess had returned, unimaginably powerful, and had first in her own gatekeepers. What was she nning to do?

    All eyes were on her, stunned.

    With a casual flick, she shrank the Primordial Doom Stars into two earrings, onerge and one small, and hung them on her ears.

    Then, with a cold gaze and her white gown billowing, she spoke no further. Her body shed like lightning, and she plunged deeper into the Celestial Court, vanishing in an instant!

    Clearly, she hadn''t seen Yun Xiao¡­ Or perhaps she had but chose to ignore him.

    After this spectacle, Yun Xiao felt a lump in his throat. He knew the moment he had pierced Lian Xi''s heart, he had angered her. This rtionship was unlikely to be reconciled.

    "Her killing the two incense-rich Great Horned Immortals and her return to the Celestial Court likely means she does not wish to appear openly but rather to remain a hidden assassin..."

    Thinking this, Yun Xiao''s thoughts intensified.

    "So be it, let me attract the storm in the open to aid her actions."

    Perhaps only then, might she forgive him...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 617: Chaos Soul!

    Chapter 617: Chaos Soul!

    The moment the Primordial Doom Stars struck the earth, it seemed as if many Immortals in the divinend of the Celestial Court were stirred.

    Though this expanse of this divinend was far greater than the Thunder Department, it was sparsely popted. Apart from the servants and the lesser Immortals, it was almost exclusively inhabited by figures of great significance!

    After the disappearance of Divine Dawn, silhouettes of majestic presence materialized in the sky, scrutinizing the corpses of the two Great Horned Immortals.

    The Divine Gateway was the facade of the Celestial Court. Bloodshed here painted a rather unfavorable image for the entirety of the court.

    The deceased were gatekeepers of the Divine Gateway, both mighty inbat and high in status.

    Soon, someone came forth to clean up the scene.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    As for the handling of the mischievous Princess Divine Dawn, no one knew. Before this moment, she had already died once; the Celestial Court mourned her passing, and then she was reborn, only to disappear again... Who could say if she was real or an impostor?

    At any rate, the Celestial Court had yet to make an official statement.

    "The Chaos Sovereign has arrived!"The Immortals cleaning the Divine Gateway tensed up.

    They quietly looked up, only to see above them, through the swirling mists of the high sky, the return of the Nine Dragons Agarwood Chariot. It hovered like the zing sun, casting down golden radiance, majestic andmanding. Such divine might made the Immortals instinctively bow their heads, feeling the heat above them.

    <em>ROAR! </em>The nine-headed, five-wed golden dragons encircling the chariot focused their eyes in the direction Divine Dawn had left, issuing deep, rumbling growls.

    Atop the lead dragon sat a man in a loose, white-golden robe, his hair wild and his beard nonchntly unkempt, holding a pot of golden liquor, his face flushed from drink.

    He, too, watched the way Divine Dawn had gone, his gaze deep and far-reaching.

    He was none other than Lu Fan, the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court!

    <em>DING!</em> Suddenly, a crisp sound rang by his ear, followed by a golden lotus blooming before his eyes. Its petals unfolded, gradually forming a rectangr interface.

    Lu Fan''s face twisted in dismay, muttering, "You can''t be serious, System, assigning me a mission now?"

    As his words fell, the golden interface disyed a line of text¡ª

    ¡¸<em>Regr Mission: Gain +100% Affinity with Divine Dawn II.</em>¡¹

    Upon reading this, Lu Fan''s mouthful of wine sprayed out in shock, stunned, "100% Affinity? That''s asking her to fall in love with me, right? Damn it, Divine Dawn II? That means she''s not the one who died!"

    The golden lotus interface remained motionless, perhaps in affirmation.

    Lu Fan hastily waved his hands, saying, "No way, System, I''m not doing this. It''s too difficult; she''s the toughest woman to woo in all of the Celestial Court, it''s an impossible challenge."

    <em>DING! </em>The golden interface shed again, revealing another line of text.

    ¡¸<em>Mission Reward: Obtain the ancient spiritw, Karmic Spirit Ordinance.</em>¡¹

    ¡¸<em>Note: The Karmic Spirit Ordinance, the number one spiritw of the ancient dao realm, dictates that destiny remains unrevealed while karma reigns supreme. It binds the consciousness of all beings and spirits in heaven and earth with countless threads of karma, weaving various destinies and retributions. Those whoprehend the Karmic Spirit Ordinance can sever these threads of causality, sowing evil without reaping its fruits and basking in eternal glory.</em>¡¹

    Lu Fan, still shaking his head in initial refusal, caught sight of this reward and nearly fell off the golden dragon he was mounted on.

    "Sever the threads of causality? Sowing evil without facing consequences? Is this like escaping the judgment of the heavenlyw? What kind of formidable spiritw is this? This is insane."

    <em>DING! </em>The golden interface changed again, disying a new message¡ª

    ¡¸<em>Please confirm whether to ept this conquest mission?</em>¡¹

    Lu Fan gritted his teeth and dered, "ept, ept, ept. I''ve nearly conquered all there is in the Celestial Court, might as well take on the toughest challenge. Once I acquire the Immortal Asylum, I can leave this wretched ce and continue my conquests elsewhere!"

    After speaking, Lu Fan patted his groin, eximing, "My dear little brother, following me in this lifetime has really paid off. The realms you''re exploring are downright divine."

    <em>DING!</em>

    ¡¸<em>System: Host has epted the mission, deadline one month. Failure results in self-castration.</em>¡¹

    "Damn it, not self-castration again!"

    Suddenly, the mission took on an urgent tone.

    Yet, Lu Fan was ustomed to this by now; the system that rewarded him for conquering women wasn''t new to him.

    Over more than 10 years, he had wooed over 10,000 women. Despite the perils, given his current mastery in spirit, no challenge was too great!

    He lifted his head, his eyes burning as he looked in the direction Divine Dawn had departed.

    "A life without surfing the needs these conquest missions to keep things interesting..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Hmm?" Below, Blue Star peered out from Yun Xiao''s embrace, his deep blue eyes fixated on the mist-enshrouded Nine Dragons Agarwood Chariot.

    He remained silent, watching intently for a long time.

    When the chariot soared into the clouds entering the divinend of the Celestial Court, he finally cracked a cold smile and said, "So that''s how it is, that''s how it is!"

    "What?" Yun Xiao and the small dark creature headed towards the Divine Gateway, he asked softly.

    Blue Star coolly replied, "I''ve finally figured out what this soul vessel really is!"

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao nced in the direction the Celestial Court''s Greatest War God had left, saying, "Do tell."

    "Its essence is a Chaos Soul," Blue Star said with a coldugh.

    "Chaos Soul? What''s that?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s a being that transcends Cosmic Immortals. After their fall, their powerful consciousness survives, forming a vessel that roams the realms, seeking a chance for rebirth," Blue Star exined.

    "Even surpassing Cosmic Immortals?"

    Yun Xiao remembered that Ye Xingchen''s parents were Cosmic Immortals, while Ling Chen was the reincarnation of the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, another Cosmic Immortal.

    And a Chaos Soul was even more formidable than a Cosmic Immortal?

    "Such Chaos Souls are immensely powerful. Ordinary spirits cannot withstand their spiritual force, so they often capture wandering souls from other worlds to use as hosts, then find a recently deceased body to slowly cultivate and achieve rebirth," Blue Star said with some disdain for the method.

    "A host? A parasite? You mean, a Chaos Soul parasitizes a wandering soul from another world, then enters the body of a native Immortal?" Yun Xiao asked.

    He was piecing together how Lu Bufan had be Lu Fan.

    "Yes!" Blue Star confirmed.

    "And this other world... where is it?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Beyond the dao realm? There are still some tiny worlds that aren¡¯t fully formed systems,cking even the basic energies of heaven and earth. Their creatures are weaker than oxen or horses, only capable of crafting mechanical devices. Their wandering souls easily drift into our realms, find it easy to merge with bodies of the recently deceased here, iming they are transmigrators. However, most transmigrators don''t possess a Chaos Soul, so they''re generally unremarkable," Blue Star exined.

    "So, you''re saying..."

    At this point, Yun Xiao grasped a stark truth. The real Lu Bufan had indeed died.

    It was the wandering soul of a transmigrator with a Chaos Soul that had taken over his body, renaming himself Lu Fan and embarking on a meteoric rise against fate.

    That¡¯s why, from obscurity, he had transformed into the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court.

    And because he was an outsider, he felt no affection towards Miss Yu, Lu An, or Lu Yao; he was too preupied with his ascent to return to a home that wasn''t his, to a wife he didn''t share a past with.

    This made everything make sense...

    Truth be told, this realization actually relieved Yun Xiao.

    Because if Lu Fan had simply abandoned his wife and child, Yun Xiao would have sought justice for them. But after all, he was their blood father... what justice could he demand?

    Now, the truth was clear: the nature of the Celestial Court''s Greatest War God was a soul from another world, reborn in a borrowed body.

    Just like Yun Xiao, under a borrowed name.

    In their family, neither the father was truly a father, nor the son truly a son...

 Chapter 618: Empress Dowagers Divine Peach Banquet

    Chapter 618: Empress Dowager''s Divine Peach Banquet

    Yun Xiao gazed in the direction where the Chaos Sovereign had departed, his brow furrowed in thought. "Bluey, I want to know, does that mundane soul from another world know about the existence of the Chaos Soul?"

    "Most assuredly," Blue Star replied with a nod. "The Chaos Soul intends to nurture him until he can bear the weight of its own spiritual power."

    "And does he realize that his ultimate fate, after being so developed, is merely to enrich someone else?" Yun Xiao pressed on.

    "How should I know? Likely, the Chaos Soul is deceiving him," Blue Star spected, his tone growing cynical. "Perhaps it disguises itself, morphing into some sort of mechanized, conscious entity that merely assists, easing his vignce. The Chaos Soul consciously guides its host to undertake tasks, rewarding him thereafter, making himcent throughout this strategic process, slowly rediting all gains to itself. It positions itself as the destined protagonist, taking all heavenly fortunes for granted."

    Blue Star smirked, continuing, "I''ve seen this before. They tend to call the Chaos Soul a <em>System</em>, as if cultivation were merely a game¡ªa path of defiance against the heavens, culminating in the host bing the <em>S</em>ystem, and the wandering soul turning into the Chaos Soul. When the System bares its fangs, everythinges to an end."

    "That''s possible?"

    Hearing such an oundish scheme for the first time, Yun Xiao was visibly stunned.

    "Think about it," Blue Star argued. "Where in this universe does a so-called System, superior to the cosmos itself, exist? And if such a System does exist, what caliber must its creator be? So, those who be hosts will never reach true supremacy, because a host is merely a yer, not the one who crafts the game. Only the game maker can originate from the great Dao!"

    At this point, Red Moon interjected, "These Chaos Souls are keen on crafting a fantastical life for mundane souls from other worlds, much like pig farming. When the farmer disguises himself as a mindless automaton, the pig swells with delusions of grandeur, believing itself to be the universe''s greatest destiny¡ªuntil the day it''s fat enough for ughter. Then, the farmer, with a sly grin, pulls out the butcher¡¯s knife.""The disguise as an automaton is crucial," Blue Star added with a chuckle. "Stoking fear too soon makes the pig unhappy, unable to fatten up¡ªperhaps even despairing to the point of defiance against the Chaos Soul. Only the most inted heart yields the most sulent meat."

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao could only muster this in reply.

    Cosmic Immortals and Chaos Souls¡­ Anything really was possible!

    Yun Xiao mused in cold reflection, "So, it seems that Lu Fan is merely a pig from another world, using the body of Lu Bufan, together fostering a truly terrifying Chaos Soul."

    "Indeed."

    "What if he bes my enemy? Is he easy to deal with?" Yun Xiao asked.

    It was only natural to think that a mere pig would be easy to deal with.

    "Not easy at all. Very difficult," Blue Star suddenly dered. It was the first time the little ck beast had spoken with such caution. In the past, he was all for reckless ughter.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The main issue is the Chaos Soul. I don''t know its depths, and it''s aplete sovereign of souls, surely hiding numerous tactics. Most importantly, this Lu Fan has been bonded with the Chaos Soul for a long while. His capabilities are fully developed, far surpassing those like Ye Xingchen and Ling Chen, who were just starting on their rises. In terms of potential and currentbat ability, he''s much higher! He''s undoubtedly the toughest opponent you''ve encountered in your cultivation journey," Blue Star said earnestly.

    Yun Xiao understood then! Ye Xingchen and Ling Chen, they were ssified as geniuses. But Lu Fan was of a higher echelon, not just a young genius, but the Celestial Court''s Greatest War God, blessed for over a decade!

    "No," Yun Xiao chuckled, "Lu Fan is almost considered part of my family. How could we be adversaries? I came to the Celestial Court seeking alliances, and should he take a liking to me, my ascent is assured."

    "See if he will favor you, but it doesn''t depend on the mundane soul Lu Fan, but on the Chaos Soul. If it perceives you as a threat and assigns you as a mission, or else has Lu Fan self-destruct, you''re doomed," Blue Star remarked with a sneer.

    "That''s simple, I''ll just shout at Lu Fan, ''You''ve been deceived!'' and reveal the truth to him," Yun Xiao proposed.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Naive," Blue Star rolled his eyes. "The System resides within him; what he hears and sees is controlled by the Chaos Soul. It''s disguised in this manner precisely for the final ughter. You think you can tell a deluded pig it''s being fattened up for the kill?"

    Yun Xiao was left speechless...

    "In summary, do not regard them separately. You must see the Chaos Soul and that mundane soul as one entity. Thisbined adversary poses a formidable threat to you, one that necessitates extreme caution!" Blue Star earnestly cautioned.

    Blue Star had issued this warning many times, and Yun Xiao was not one to take such matters lightly; he understood the gravity.

    Previously, against Ye Xingchen and Ling Chen, his talent had easily dominated because they were neither strong nor influential.

    But Lu Fan was a different story; he had it all!

    "You''re right," Yun Xiao agreed, "the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court isn''t just Lu Fan, but a union of Lu Fan, the Chaos Soul, and Lu Bufan¡ªall in one!"

    If thisbined force were to be his opponent, it would spell a temporary disaster.

    So, a final doubt emerged in Yun Xiao''s mind. He mused deeply, "It remains to be seen, in this decaying Celestial Court, whether Lu Fan, this scion of fate, will exacerbate the crisis or genuinely enact grand ns to revolutionize the Great Dao Celestial Realm."

    Weighed down by these thoughts, Yun Xiao followed the members of the Thunder Department to their quarters near the Divine Gateway, settling into the Divine Heaven Pavilion.

    Divine Dawn and Lu Fan had entered the game!

    But for now, Yun Xiao''s focus remained on the Immortal Tournament.

    Nine Arbiters from the Thunder Department, along with seven honorary Arbiters from various factions, vied for the title of Champion of the Celestial Court.

    "Rest here and await further instructions!" Yun Yin announced before departing.

    As the final stage approached, thebatants, tense with anticipation, spoke little and continued their preparations, tuning themselves to peak condition.

    The tumult caused by Divine Dawn''s confrontation with the Great Horned Immortals seemed to slowly subside as well.

    The Celestial Court regained its usual peace and reverence.

    With time on his hands, Yun Xiao continued to delve into the Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts of the Thunder Department.

    Little did he expect that, not even a quarter hour after settling into the Divine Heaven Pavilion, visitors would arrive outside.

    The visitor was a female Sword Immortal garbed in a silver robe¡ªthe Moon Sword Goddess herself!

    Yun Yin stepped forward to greet her personally, while the others from the Thunder Department came out to meet this Rank 2 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court.

    "We pay our respects to the Moon Sword Goddess,"

    The group greeted her one after the other.

    When it was Yun Xiao''s turn, the young man looked calmly at the Moon Sword Goddess and addressed her, "Master!"

    This greeting drew puzzled looks from the crowd.

    Yet, the Moon Sword Goddess did not deny his im¡ªat least not yet. After all, everyone was awaiting the revtion of Yun Xiao''s identity¡ªthe son of the Chaos Sovereign!

    She dared not close off her own avenues of retreat.

    Seeing that everyone had arrived, the Moon Sword Goddess spoke up, "Her Majesty, the Empress Dowager, has invited all the Immortals of the Celestial Court to a banquet of divine peaches at the Western Kunlun Pce. After hearing word of your arrival, I was specifically instructed to invite you young Arbiter talents of the Thunder Department. Please, join us at the pce."

    This announcement sparked excitement among the members of the Thunder Department.

    A banquet of divine peaches!

    This was the highest honor in the Celestial Court, a once-in-a-lifetime de.

    A personal invitation from the Western Kunlun Pce. Everyone there was a powerhouse of the Celestial Court!

    Yun Yin quickly responded, "We are deeply honored by the Empress Dowager''s gracious invitation."

    The Moon Sword Goddess smiled. "The celestial lords hold the young talents of the Thunder Department in high regard, and seven Arbiter prodigies have already taken their seats at the feast. After the banquet, the Immortal Tournament willmence, providing you a perfect opportunity to get acquainted with your opponents."

    This was more than just mingling with adversaries; it was a chance for the young Immortals to showcase themselves before the divine leaders of the Great Dao Celestial Realm¡ªan opportunity of immense significance!

    Even Nine Kites, the Empress Dowager''s prospective daughter-inw had never attended a divine peach banquet.

    "Let us go, and not keep Her Majesty waiting any longer," the Moon Sword Goddess urged softly.

    Yun Yin waved his hand, "Follow the Moon Sword Goddess."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    At this point, Red Moon interjected, "These Chaos Souls are keen on crafting a fantastical life for mundane souls from other worlds, much like pig farming. When the farmer disguises himself as a mindless automaton, the pig swells with delusions of grandeur, believing itself to be the universe''s greatest destiny¡ªuntil the day it''s fat enough for ughter. Then, the farmer, with a sly grin, pulls out the butcher¡¯s knife."</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 619: Fox Demons!

    From the Divine Heavenly Pavilion, the Thunder Department''s group set out westward with the Moon Sword Goddess. They flew in the air through the dense mist of the Celestial Court. The grandeur of countless pces were obscured by protective formations, revealing a tip of their majestic iceberg, a spectacle of unparalleled sanctity and elegance.

    Soft celestial music wafted through the air, as if this divinend of the Celestial Court carried with it a slow, crisp soundtrack that bathed the travelers in its harmonious embrace, instilling a serene calm deep within.

    To Yun Xiao, this endless expanse of pces epitomized the notion of being elevated above the mundane, a realm where time stood peacefully still.

    Along the path, clusters of divine maidens, baskets of flowers in hand and sweet smiles gracing their faces, added a breath of fresh air to the journey.

    Each Immortal they encountered radiated an aura of righteousness and magnanimity, the men exuding nobility, the women grace, their beings untouched by worldly dust, their hearts as clear as mirrors¡ªjust as mortals imagined the Celestial Court to be.

    Yun Xiao had once thought that the Heavenly Realm of the Divine Continent and the Primordial Ruins were akin to the fabled Celestial Court. Yet, it was not until he arrived here that he realized those ces were mere imitations; the true essence of the Celestial Courty not just in its architecture or its vastness, but in its inhabitants¡ªthe Immortals who defined it.

    The dignitaries and young talents from the Thunder Department appeared to be familiar with these sights. Their conduct was reserved and their gazes restrained, perhaps to avoid disturbing the sanctity of their surroundings.

    As the group traversed the western reaches of this divinend, Yun Xiao''s eyes pierced the thick mists, and what struck him first was a towering column as dark as ink¡ªthe Immortal Asylum.

    It seemed almost hidden between the mountainous vistas ahead, a core part of the Great Dao Celestial Realm that he had not expected to encounter so directly upon his ascent to the heavens.Between Yun Xiao and the Immortal Asylumy countless splendid pces that likely belonged to the Western Kunlun Pce. On the eastern side of these pces stretched a vast forest, its heavy fragrance signifying the location of the Empress Dowager¡¯s peach orchard.

    "The Western Kunlun Pce is part of the Empress Dowager¡¯s royal residence. It''s presided over by Empress Zhao and also serves as a pilgrimage site for the celestial maidens of the Celestial Court," Yun Xiao remarked to himself.

    The Western Kunlun Pce symbolized the feminine power of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, bustling now more than usual with the hosting of the Divine Peach Banquet.

    Upon reaching the Western Kunlun Pce, the Moon Sword Goddess led the Thunder Department''s group to descend early and approach the elegant gates on foot. This gate, it seemed, was not the main entrance, and so there weren''t many people to receive them.

    Uponnding, Yun Xiao immediately noticed an elderly Immortal approaching. This aged figure was of short stature, with arge head and scant hair, leaning on a cane, his small eyes twinkling merrily, exuding an aura of immense fortune.

    ¡°Longevity Immortal,¡± Yun Yin greeted with a smile.

    ¡°Supreme General Yun! Please, on behalf of the Empress Dowager, she invites you all.¡± The Longevity Immortal smiled, exchanging pleasantries with Yun Yin.

    Yun Xiao immediately recognized the old Immortal. Though his expression was calm on the surface, his heart turned cold. "It''s him!"

    The Longevity Immortal was a Ster Margrave, a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court!

    When Yun Xiao and Lian Xi first arrived at the Ascension Pool, it was this very old man who callously cooked all the hopeful petitioners, one pot after another, turning their dreams to gruel to feed horses.

    To think such a person was a favored official in the Celestial Court! What did this reveal?

    Fortunately, Yun Xiao and Lian Xi had both kept a low profile back in the Ascension Pool.

    The Longevity Immortal surely never imagined that one of the souls he''d boiled only days before would now stand before him transformed¡ªa Rank 6 Heavenly Officer and a prodigy of the Thunder Department, here topete for the highest honors of the Celestial Court!

    Weed by the Longevity Immortal, the Thunder Department''s group entered a courtyard, where celestial mist hung thick in the air and birds sang amongst the fragrant flowers.

    Lovely celestial maidens danced gracefully, greeting the guests and arranging the banquet, their splendor far surpassing the gathering back at the Grand Firmament Academy.

    Indeed, the Grand Firmament Academy''s peach banquet was but a pale imitation of this grand feast hosted by the Empress Dowager!

    Yun Xiao felt like a viger who had wandered into an imperial pce; his eyes barely kept up with the sights. The tables wereden with delicacies and divine fruits beyond the reach of ordinary Immortals, presented here with an audacious opulence.

    "Esteemed friends from the Thunder Department, please be seated," the Longevity Immortal beckoned warmly.

    Yun Xiao and Gu Suwan, posing as mother and son, shared a table somewhat apart from the center. Even so, the array of divine fruits and dishes before them dazzled the eyes.

    As the guests settled in, and the grand banquet had yet to trulymence, beautiful celestial maidens diffused the air with fragrant perfumes, smiling sweetly as they served wine, yed music, and danced lightly.

    Yun Xiao had to restrain the excited little ck beast in his robes; truth be told, he had adored such feasts since his days in the Primordial Ruins.

    A banquet of the rich, a turning point for the poor! But today''s asion was too grand for reckless indulgence.

    Amidst the enveloping music, Yun Xiao quietly asked Gu Suwan, whose face always bore a motherly smile, "Doesn''t it seem a bit sparse here? Weren¡¯t all the top officials supposed to attend?"

    Gu Suwan smiled, gazing ahead, "You young ones aren¡¯t suited for the higher circles. So, you were ced in the outer court. As chaperones, us adults are seated here too."

    "Is there an inner court as well?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Clearly, the inner court held a grander setting.

    "Of course, there''s an inner court. But there''s no difference in the setup. Whether it''s the inner or outer court, the standards are the same. The celestial wines are brewed from the finest heavenly fruits, the meatse from divine beasts nurtured in the Celestial Court, and the peaches are of the highest grade... Such delicacies are seldom seen by ordinary Immortals in their lifetimes."

    Knowing this young man oftenmented his poverty and had an appetite like a starving ghost, Gu Suwan advised him, "Don''t just bury your head and eat voraciously. This banquet is about socializing, about understanding the ways of the world."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Don''t worry, I''ll just enjoy a little wine," Yun Xiao said with a lightugh, though he wasn''t the one who needed restraint.

    At the same, a dark little paw stealthily reached out from his embrace, swiftly snatching a translucent, jade-like celestial peach, which disappeared in an instant.

    Yun Xiao soon noticed that the Immortals heading to the inner court had to pass through the outer court. So, he could look up and see one after another, their presences vast as celestial seas, passing by on clouds, all smiles.

    "Ster Margrave Greedy Wolf, please enter."

    "Ster Margrave me Lord has arrived, this way please!"

    "All Celestial Inspectors, over here."

    "The Three Merit Chiefs have arrived!"

    "Nine Luminaries Ser Margrave and Grand Duke Tai Sui, please, this way."

    "Wee to the Generals of the Celestial River Navy!"

    The Longevity Immortal and Moon Sword Goddess greeted the guests together. The Moon Sword Goddess smiled quietly, seldom speaking, while the Longevity Immortal, who had a broadwork, exchanged a few words with each visitor.

    "Oh, the Lunar Mistress has arrived? Truly, your beauty is unmatched. The Empress Dowager has missed you!"

    Another guest arrived, and the Longevity Immortal''s smile almost reached his ears.

    Bored, Yun Xiao suddenly sensed a demonic aura. Looking up through the celestial mist, he saw two stunningly beautiful women approaching slowly. Even through the mist, he could see they were peerless in beauty, rivaling the Thunder Department¡¯s most beautiful woman, Nine Kites.

    The two delicate women looked somewhat alike, yet their auras differed greatly. One was mature and enchanting, her cheeks tenderly flushed, her figure gracefully captivating; the other, clearly less experienced, was younger and seemingly demure but with an inherent allure.

    Both had silvery-pink hair and simr eyes, surrounded by cherry blossoms, their presence ethereal and mysterious... But, Yun Xiao distinctly saw furry fox ears atop their heads.

    Their gowns slightly bulged at the back, clearly indicating the presence of fox tails.

    "These are fox demons..." Yun Xiao was a bit surprised. He turned to Gu Suwan. "Are demons also revered in the Celestial Court, even attending the Divine Peach Banquet?"

    Gu Suwan shushed him softly, giving him a peculiar look before answering, "Of course, there are many Demon Immortals in the Celestial Court. Their ancestors have a long history of loyalty to the Great Dao Celestial Realm. It''s said that talent should not be judged by origin; they are pirs of the Celestial Court, why bother with distinctions of race?"

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao found this quite curious. No wonder Cao Sheng and Cao Shuo went unchecked, with their demon serpent earrings.

    It was clear the Celestial Court didn''t hold too great of a disdain for demons, allowing their existence, though they hadn''t be mainstream.

    Nheless, for a demon to attend the Divine Peach Banquet was no small feat.

    "The Lunar Mistress wields extraordinary power. Though she holds no official position in the Celestial Court, her reputation in the Great Dao Celestial Realm is immense. She''s a leader among the demon Immortals," Gu Suwan said, clearly impressed, indicating that this Lunar Mistress was stronger than her.

    "The older fox demon is the Lunar Mistress, and the younger one is her daughter. Her name is Wuqing. The youngdy, she''s¡­"

    Gu Suwan''s face took on a curious expression, whispering, "She''s one of the honorary Arbiters taking part in the Immortal Tournament, a very formidable opponent. Among those under 30 years old in the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm, she is the strongest demon prodigy."

    "A demon could be the Champion of the Celestial Pce?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "That''s why you should step up your game. If you do, she won''t make it, right? Since everyone has registered, and the Celestial Court advocates equality for all beings, we can''t very well ask her to withdraw, can we?" Gu Suwan murmured softly.

    "Equality for all beings?" Yun Xiao suddenly found it ironic. Demons were considered part of all beings. Yet themon folk in the mortal realm seemed excluded from this category.

    Such was the equality for all beings!

    At this moment, the Lunar Mistress and Wuqing parted ways; the former headed to the inner court, while thetter, guided by the Longevity Immortal, sat down at a table next to Yun Xiao.

    Upon closer inspection of Wuqing''s profile, Yun Xiao was struck by her stunning appearance.

    "Even as a fox demon, pure and ethereal in appearance, her inherent allure and seduction cannot be fully concealed."

    Wuqing seemed gentle and reserved, not engaging with anyone, just sitting quietly, evoking a sense of pity. This reminded Yun Xiao of Lady Hua Lian...

    Truthfully speaking, in spite of the situation, Yun Xiao felt no hostility towards Wuqing.

    For some reason, amidst this profit-driven peach banquet, with all the bustling Immortals wearing forced smiles, this single fox seemed detached, emanating a sense of rity.

    It was only a couple of months ago that Yun Xiao was ughtering demons from the Northern Wastnds for the sake of his people.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but feel bewildered. Now, his worldview had been flippedpletely upside down; discerning who was human and who was demon was no longer straightforward.

    "Hush." Just then, Gu Suwan suddenly whispered, "The Empress Dowager ising out!"

    The Empress Dowager, none other than Empress Zhao, was the greatest matriarch of the Great Dao Celestial Realm! She was an impossibly lofty figure!

    Yun Xiao instinctively looked towards the inner court, where through the swirling celestial mist, a procession of beautiful female Immortals emerged, the central figure enveloped in radiant light, dressed in a flowing ck and gold gown.

 Chapter 620: The Celestial Courts Number One Swordmaster!

    Yun Xiao''s gaze lifted slightly, and he saw the owner of the splendid gown: a woman of dignified grace and nobility.

    Though she stood not far away, there seemed to be a mist before Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes that obscured her features. He felt deeply that this woman was like the mother of all things. She embraced all streams, bore the wealth of the world, and exuded dignity in all directions. Her very form was where the light of the Celestial Court converged!

    Her sublime presence was too intense to face directly. A mere nce from anyonepelled them to bow their heads in deep reverence.

    To Yun Xiao''s surprise, the voice of this revereddy was gentle, soothing the soul like a spring rain.

    She announced, ¡°The chosen Arbiter prodigies, having distinguished themselves among countless contenders, the sixteen who have set foot in the Heavenly Pce have achieved no small feat! I, a humble woman, can offer nothing more than a modest feast before the grandpetition begins, to wee and cleanse you from your journeys. May you show your full capabilities after this banquet, and disy your brilliance!¡±

    Her words made clear that this outer court feast was set especially for the participants of the Immortal Tournament.

    ¡°Should we not express our gratitude for the Empress Dowager''s generosity?¡± Yun Yin prompted.

    At once, the crowd in the outer court expressed their thanks.

    The Empress Dowager smiled gently and said, ¡°Then please, enjoy.¡±With that, she turned and walked back to the inner court, apanied by the respectful farewells of those in the outer court.

    For Yun Xiao, this meant one thing¡ªit was time to eat! He drank, while Blue Star and Red Moon were tasked with clearing the other delicacies from the celestial table. Unchecked, these little creatures would devour even the tes and the table itself!

    Truth be told, all present werepetitors bound by fate, and genuine harmony among the sixteen before the battle was unlikely.

    With the Empress Dowager''s departure, the atmosphere turned chilly; the music and dance continued, but no one listened.

    ¡°Shall I introduce your opponents to you?¡± Gu Suwan saw Yun Xiao continually drinking and feeding his little pet with celestial fruits and decided he might want to slow down.

    ¡°Sure.¡± Yun Xiao leaned back in his chair, utterly rxed.

    ¡°I¡¯ve looked into it. Among the seven honorary Arbiters this time, four have the potential to reach the top three, like Nine Kites,¡± Gu Suwan whispered close, her breath fragrant and soft.

    ¡°That little fox is one of them,¡± Yun Xiao observed, recognizing that Wuqing was no less capable than Nine Kites.

    ¡°Just don¡¯t call her a little fox to her face; it would be rude,¡± Gu Suwan rolled her eyes.

    ¡°And there are three more,¡± Yun Xiao added.

    ¡°Mhmm.¡± Gu Suwan nodded, then she covertly nced at a young man in the outer court, who, dressed in a golden robe and with a cherubic face, was busy toasting with everyone, his face always adorned with a harmless smile¡ªa true social butterfly.

    Gu Suwan whispered, ¡°This one¡¯s called Zhao Yuanbao. From his surname, you should guess hees from a notable lineage.¡±

    ¡°Rted to Her Majesty?¡± Yun Xiao inquired.

    ¡°Exactly. He¡¯s the Empress Dowager¡¯s nephew. Plus, his father is the head of the Celestial Court''s Imperial Treasury, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign, one of the eight Rank 1 Sovereigns,¡± Gu Suwan exined.

    He was a nephew to the Empress Dowager and the son of a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer! In terms of status, he ranked even above Nine Kites, courtesy of the Empress Dowager''s favor.

    ¡°The Imperial Treasury, they must be quite wealthy, right?¡± Yun Xiaotched onto that detail.

    ¡°Obviously, they¡¯re far richer than our Thunder Department. The Imperial Treasury is based on the divinend of the Celestial Court. The Dragon Tiger Sovereign holds more sway in the Heavenly Pce than even our Nine Thunders Sovereign. All celestial cities within the court, and their officials and Immortals, are managed by the Imperial Treasury.¡±

    The background of Zhao Yuanbao was clear: wealthy and influential, a controller of the Celestial Court¡¯s vital resources!

    This young man, ever-smiling to all, was raised in the Heavenly Pce, truly a cut above.

    As for his strength, Yun Xiao found it elusive; such characters, often amiable, tended to hide their true capabilities. He was not to be underestimated!

    ¡°There are two more at this level?¡± Yun Xiao sensed a challenge.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Gu Suwan discreetly pointed elsewhere.

    Yun Xiao looked and saw the Moon Sword Goddess. Beside her sat a young man in a white sword robe, his ck hair cascading like a waterfall, his nose sharp as a de, radiating a profound chill, unweing to strangers. Even amidst the feast, he could not sheathe his innate fierceness.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Hmm?¡± What really caught Yun Xiao¡¯s attention were the young man¡¯s eyes. They were pure white, devoid of pupils, utterly vacant!

    Yun Xiao was more than familiar with them; they were descendants of the Three Immortals!

    This young man was clearly not one of their direct descendants, but he must be from that very lineage!

    ¡°The Young Master of Immortal Sword Court, his father, ¡®Beidou Sword Demon¡¯, is also a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer, though not counted among the kings. But his strength could surpass most of the kings, his renown nearing that of the Chaos Sovereign, known as the foremost swordsman of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!¡± Gu Suwan spoke with a hint of reverence.

    ¡°Northstar Sword Devil?¡± Yun Xiao murmured, pursing his lips.

    Gu Suwan paused, then spoke, "He''s not the same as the Sword Devil that appeared in Sky Soaring City. He was born with the sword as his surname and loves the de to the point of madness¡ªthat''s the origin of his name."

    She mentioned the Sword Devil, of course referring to Yun Xiao.

    "With the sword as his surname... birds of a feather," Yun Xiao mused. He remembered that the Human Zenith Immortal also adopted the sword as his surname.

    Gu Suwan gazed at the young man in the white sword robe and continued, "This is the only son of the Northstar Sword Devil, named by his father Jian Chi, a <em>Sword Fool</em>. True to his name, he is obsessed with the sword to an extreme degree. With his current extraordinary talent, many say he might surpass his father and be the new Sovereign of the sword in the Celestial Court..."

    "Such a young age, and already deemed to surpass the Northstar Sword Devil?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow, knowing that such certainty from outsiders must be well-founded.

    Gu Suwan added solemnly, "Because Jian Chi is the first in the history of the Celestial Court to possess a Twin Sword Soul. His bones underwent a mutation, and from a young age, he had two Sword Souls, making his lethality unparalleled among his peers."

    "Twin Sword Souls?" Yun Xiao had never seen such a thing. He was intrigued!

    Indeed, Wuqing, Zhao Yuanbao, and Jian Chi¡ªwhether in terms of status, talent, or strength¡ªwere all on par with Jiuyan.

    Each had at least a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer backing them!

    Compared to that, Yun Xiao, with his vague support from the Chaos Sovereign, seemed rather sketchy.

    "And thest one?" Yun Xiao remembered Gu Suwan mentioned there were four.

    Yet, strangely, he hadn¡¯t noticed anyone else in the outer court who could pose a simr threat as the Sword Fool.

    "Thest is a direct disciple of the Chaos Sovereign, a rather mysterious figure who hasn¡¯t revealed much. It¡¯s said he holds high prestige within the Great Dao Celestial Army. Today, like the Chaos Sovereign, he didn¡¯t attend the Divine Peach Banquet," Gu Suwan said with a curious expression.

    "He didn¡¯te, huh..." Yun Xiao understood¡ªthe Empress Dowager wouldn¡¯t deliberately exclude anyone. If the two were invited and neither showed up, what did that imply? At the very least, it showed audacity.

    "The Chaos Sovereign didn¡¯te, but his rumored son did," Gu Suwan suddenly said with a lightugh.

    "Is that a problem?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    His tone matched that of the Chaos Sovereign himself.

    At the banquet, not in step with the others? The implications were significant, and from these exchanges, Gu Suwan realized Yun Xiao''s grasp of the entire structure of the Celestial Court was scant at best.

    She understood then that the likelihood of this young man being the son of the Chaos Sovereign was exceedingly slim.

    It wasn''t just her thinking this; others would surely draw the same conclusion.

    "Of course," Gu Suwan said, "just a reminder, though, the disciple of the Chaos Sovereign might be dangerous. Who knows how he''ll view you?"

    Yun Xiao ignored her, continuing to eat and drink instead. As word spread that the Chaos Sovereign had skipped the banquet, increasingly curious nces swept over Yun Xiao.

    Suddenly, a crisp sound rang out over the banquet¡ªa p!

    It was unmistakable, even amidst the hubbub of the Celestial Court¡¯s grandest festivity.

    All eyes turned to the source and shockingly found that Jian Chi had pped the Moon Sword Goddess across the face.

    A young man had just struck a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer.

    For a moment, everyone was dumbstruck. But more helpless yet was the sight of the Moon Sword Goddess, her hand clutching her face, eyes reddened, yet frozen in ce, daring not to utter a word.

    This incident, sure to mar her reputation grievously, left her no choice but to endure. A celestial immortal of her stature, forced to hold back tears.

    Why had Jian Chi struck her?

    In that silent, confused moment, the young man in the white sword robe suddenly stood and walked towards Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao was mid-drink when he sensed a chilling murderous intent fix on him, as if thousands of sword energies were clinging to his skin.

    He paused, unable to recall any offense given to this formidable young lord of the Immortal Sword Court.

    "Do you need something?" Yun Xiao asked calmly, setting down his jug.

    Jian Chi pointed towards the Moon Sword Goddess, his voice cold as frost, "From now on, stay away from her. Call her master again, and I''ll break your Sword Soul."

    Yun Xiao understood then. This lord wanted no ties between the Immortal Sword Court and himself, which was why he expressed his displeasure towards the Moon Sword Goddess.

    ncing over his shoulder, Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help but acknowledge the domineering nature of the Immortal Sword Court''s young lord,pelling even a frosty goddess like the Moon Sword Goddess to merely simmer in silence.

    Yun Xiao suddenly stood up and walked over to the Moon Sword Goddess, taking her by the arm with a defiant raise of his eyebrow toward JIan Chi. "I just did call her that. What about it?"

    The Moon Sword Goddess''s face shifted slightly as she pulled her arm away, but she didn''t object. Clearly, she was weighing her options between pride and reality.

    Yun Xiao offered her the former, while Jian Chi represented the harshtter.

    Hearing Yun Xiao''s bold deration, Jian Chi suddenlyughed.

    "A swaggering impostor," he taunted. "Since you''ve entered the Divine Gateway, the Chaos Sovereign hasn''t spared you a nce. Still, you puff up your cheeks to look big? ying such games, aren''t you afraid of a dire end?"

    His words echoed the silent thoughts of many there.

    Sinister smiles spread among the crowd.

    Everyone understood. If he were truly the son of the Chaos Sovereign, why would he attend the Divine Peach Banquet alone? Who could tolerate such deception now?

    At this moment, even the Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwan fell silent. They too knew they might have bet on the wrong horse.

    "Lastly!" JIan Chi red coldly at Yun Xiao. "Even if you truly are the son of the Chaos Sovereign, I will still defeat you."

    "What grudge do you have against me?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "None," Jian Chi replied, extending a finger. "In the path of the sword, there can only be one supreme master."

    "Well said." Yun Xiao smiled as well.

    Everyone thought Yun Xiao was there to leverage the influence of the Chaos Sovereign. In truth, he merely wanted topete fairly in the Immortal Tournament.

    He returned to his seat and picked up a jug of wine.

    "Drink up, then let''s get down to it!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 621: There Can Only Be One Master of the Sword!

    Chapter 621: There Can Only Be One Master of the Sword!

    The atmosphere in the outer courtyard grew peculiar once conflict arose.

    Zhao Yuanbao, the Empress Dowager''s nephew, remained unaffected, wandering the feast and conversing jovially.

    Yun Xiao and Jian Chi, however, became the icy poles of the outer courtyard, approached by no one.

    An hourter, the Divine Peach Banquet concluded.

    For Yun Xiao, thetter half was spent in cultivation. While Blue Star and Red Moon indulged in the feast, he sustained himself on the Tri Heaven Sariras. Practically speaking, this banquet was a bounty for him.

    The other guests, concerned with appearances, merely nibbled.

    Given their noble lineages, they scarcely needed such celestial delicacies and fruits, consuming but a little.

    Yun Xiao was different. Like always, he took as much as was offered, unbothered by appearances.

    As the gathering dispersed, Yun Xiao asked the rotund Red Moon, ¡°How much did you eat?¡±With eight glowing peaches still in his mouth, Red Moon couldn¡¯t reply. So, Blue Star answered for him. ¡°At least 8,000,000 True Immortal Jades¡¯ worth!¡±

    ¡°That much?¡± Yun Xiao eximed.

    ¡°Nonsense, it¡¯s the highest ss of banquet. Any divine peach here would be fiercely contested outside,¡± Blue Star scoffed.

    ¡°Truly, the extravagance of the Celestial Court is unmatched,¡± Yun Xiao mused.

    ¡°We should attend these banquets more often,¡± Blue Star advised.

    ¡°To think,mitting a massacre in Sky Soaring City garnered only 1,000,000 True Immortal Jades, yet here, one can consume the equivalent of 8,000,000 just by eating and drinking¡­¡±

    Such was the true upper crust of the Celestial Court!

    For those like Zhao Yuanbao and Jian Chi, born into such circles, how could an ordinary Arbiter hope topare?

    ¡°To think of my annual allowance as a Rank 9 Arbiter... These royals could dine for centuries on what would take me hundreds of thousands of years to earn.¡±

    Comparison was the thief of joy, and this was the best example.

    Lu An struggled and ran about, never earning the respect of Lord Liu, and instead invited deadly peril.

    In the Celestial Court, the hierarchy of power wasn''t something that could be ovee by effort.

    Ironically, an unnned Divine Peach Banquet resolved Yun Xiao¡¯s urgent need for resources.

    Before the banquet ended, Yun Xiao even advanced to the Mid Celestial Expanse Realm.

    ¡°The princes and generals of the Celestial Court, themon Immortals of the cities, and the beings of the mortal realm... The disparity between these tiers is vast.¡±

    Princes enjoyed everything, lowly Immortals exhausted themselves, and mortals lived like livestock.

    Who could say the splendor of this Celestial Court wasn¡¯t built on countless lives?

    Yun Xiao had journeyed from the Nine Hells to the Celestial Court, witnessing all with his own eyes, the righteous anger within him roiling more fiercely than ever.

    It was this very fury that had driven him here!

    ¡°The Immortal Tournament is about to begin. Proceed immediately to the Divine Gateway''s fighting tform.¡±

    No sooner had the assembly dispersed than Yun Yin summoned everyone from the outer court.

    Of course, apart from the group who came from the Thunder Department, this also included the honorary Arbiters such as Zhao Yuanbo and Jian Chi.

    The moment of tension had arrived!

    The young prodigies got up and headed towards the fighting tform under the Divine Gateway. None of them spoke along the way, the atmosphere solemn and strained.

    The champion of Immortal Tournament! This was the highest honor for any neer in the Celestial Court!

    On the way, Yun Xiao soared on clouds, when suddenly, a cold fragrance wafted behind him.

    Turning, he saw it was the Moon Sword Goddess approaching.

    ¡°Thank you for earlier,¡± she said

    ¡°It was nothing,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    She didn''t offer pleasantries but instead stared at him with a grave expression and slowly dered, ¡°Lu Yao, our paths as master and disciple end here. From this moment, we go our separate ways. I wish you grand sess.¡±

    ¡°You dismiss me before we even fight?¡± Yun Xiao chuckled.

    He knew the reason. Logically, with the son having arrived and battles about tomence, how could his father not appear? Moreover, the Chaos Sovereign¡¯s direct disciple was also participating!

    After the Divine Peach Banquet, no one believed Yun Xiao was really the son of the Chaos Sovereign any longer.

    ¡°Take care of yourself!¡± The Moon Sword Goddess shook her head, her eyes filled with indifference.

    Yet, Yun Xiaoughed. ¡°A day as master, a lifetime as a parent, you can¡¯t escape that.¡±

    ¡°Nonsense,¡± she said, no longer engaging with him.

    Though she had been pped by Jian Chi, she now returned to his side as if nothing had happened, even tending to him as they walked. Her demeanor was not sycophantic, but it was submissive.

    Jian Chi slightly lifted his chin, giving Yun Xiao a cold nce. He was quite pleased with the Moon Sword Goddess''s decision to sever their master-disciple ties.

    ¡°Hah¡­¡± Yun Xiao sighed, turning to Gu Suwan, ¡°In adversity, true colors show. Now, it seems only you are willing to nurture me, my dear mother.¡±

    Gu Suwan managed a sheepish smile, saying little. In her mind, she mused, ¡°No one is a fool. After the Divine Peach Banquet, who doesn¡¯t see you''re only leveraging the identity of the Chaos Sovereign?¡±

    Before the start of the Immortal Tournament, Yun Xiao had be an outsider, a fraud. He was out of ce among the majestic pces and the proud scions of the heavens.

    Before long, the group arrived in front of the fighting tform.

    It was a grand white jade tform, a thousand meters in both length and width, located not far from the Divine Gateway!

    Each Champion Arbiter had been decided here.

    Contestants from the various factions arrived beneath the tform, their expressions solemn.

    ¡°Are there no spectators?¡± Yun Xiao nced around, noting the emptiness surrounding the tform.

    ¡°Look above,¡± Gu Suwan instructed.

    As her words fell, celestial beings appeared amidst the clouds above, riding the mists, enveloped in divine light. Soon, perhaps 1,000 Immortals had gathered, likelying straight from the Divine Peach Banquet.

    Enshrouded in celestial fog and radiant haloes, they shone like the sun and moon, casting vast beams of light.

    From within the misty clouds, they looked more lofty and imposing, putting even greater pressure on the gifted Arbiters below!

    Yun Xiao knew these were the true rulers of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, beings at the pinnacle of existence. He recognized few among them, but he was aware that any one of them could easily crush him as he was now!

    This overwhelming pressure descended; even Zhao Yuanbao and his peerscked the courage to look up.

    After all, they were the ones under scrutiny!

    The celestial fog above coalesced into seats of honor, and various officials of the Celestial Court took their ces. The sounds of theirughter and conversation from above undoubtedly intensified the contestants'' tension.

    ¡°Onest time, the honor of the Thunder Department rests on you nine!¡± Yun Yin, as a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, also had a seat among the clouds. After his stern promation, he ascended.

    ¡°The honor of the Thunder Department?¡± Yun Xiao knew this was what the Nine Thunders Sovereign and his peers cherished most.

    Yet today, the Nine Thunders Sovereign, the rightful head of the Thunder Department, seemed conspicuously absent.

    ¡°Is this a sign of displeasure over the inclusion of seven outsiders in the Thunder Department''s Immortal Tournament?¡±

    For now, led by Nine Kites, the gifted Arbiters of the Thunder Department appeared full of resolve, evidently ready to fight to the death for their department''s dignity.

    The disgrace of the top Champion Arbiter not being from the Thunder Department was palpable.

    ¡°I just hope you can defend it, lest it falls to me to do so,¡± Yun Xiao thought with a cold smirk.

    ¡°The Empress Dowager arrives!¡±

    Today''s loftiest figure appeared once more!

    Yun Xiao hadn¡¯t expected that even this Arbiter''s martial battle would be overseen by Empress Zhao herself.

    Amidst a host of flowers and reverent gazes, the Empress Dowager, d in a ck and gold phoenix robe, descended with a retinue of celestial maidens to her highest seat of honor atop the clouds.

    ¡°The Emperor himself will attend the final battle,¡± Gu Suwan whispered softly.

    "Mhm,¡± Yun Xiao nodded.

    The rules of the tournament were straightforward. Sixteen contestants would be paired off for each elimination each round.

    From 16 to 8, 8 to 4, and the final 4 to be ranked as champion, runner-up, third, and fourth ce!

    All told, it was just a handful of battles, all resolved in a single day.

    With the first round of 16, half were destined for immediate defeat.

    Once all were gathered, the Longevity Immortal represented the Celestial Court with a grave speech. Afterward, he dered, ¡°This session of the Immortal Tournament officially begins!¡±

    With that, the Longevity Immortal carried a transparent bowl, bowed deeply, and presented it before the Empress Dowager.

    Inside the bowl were 16 peach pearls!

    ¡°Please, Your Majesty, choose the brackets,¡± the Longevity Immortal said.

    ¡°Mhm.¡± The Empress Dowager nodded and smiled, dipping her hands into the bowl and stirring before casually picking two peach pearls.

    She handed them to two exquisitely beautiful celestial maidens, one in azure, the other in blue. Each maiden bit gently into a peach, extracting a small jade slip from within.

    The appearance of these jade slips tensed every Arbiter prodigy below.

    Which two would first take the stage?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Who would face whom?

    It all came down to luck!

    ¡°Longevity Immortal, please.¡±

    The maidens each handed their jade slips to him. With a nce, his face lit up with a smile, and he proimed, ¡°The Sword Emperor reveals his prowess; the Twin Celestial Sword Souls are unparalleled. Gentlemen, do you know which young hero stands peerless among a thousand des?¡±

    As his words faded, every gaze turned towards Jian Chi.

    The young man in the white sword robe, his expression cid, stepped onto the fighting tform without a word.

    His sword-like gaze, cold and sharp, fixed on another jade slip in the hands of the Longevity Immortal.

    The Immortal held the slip, his expression slightly odd as he announced, "From a remote border cityes a youth unknown, who with a seven-fold ring of thunder shook the heavens. The world hails him as a sovereign of the sword path. Who among you might stand invincible between the clouds?"

    Upon hearing this, the crowd''s expressions turned notably animated.

    In an instant, the scrutinizing eyes of 1,000 elite immortals fell upon Yun Xiao.

    This suspected son of the Chaos Sovereign, under the gaze of many, stepped onto the fighting tform!

    In the realm of swordsmanship, only one could reign supreme!

    As these two, freshly at odds from the Divine Peach Banquet, took their ces on the stage, the tension surged to its peak.

    Above the clouds, the Moon Sword Goddess watched the scene unfold, a flicker of malice crossing her frosty demeanor.

    "Is this your disciple?" A voice suddenly came from nearby.

    The Moon Sword Goddess quickly bowed her head toward a dark sword shadow and replied, "We''ve severed ties. He''s been living off my reputation, freeloading. If he shows no merit today, I shall deal with him myself."

    "No rush, let''s see how Sovereign Lu handles him," the dark sword shadow responded.

    "Yes¡­" she bowed her head again, then murmured, "Perhaps Jian Chi should strike him down. If no one saves him, he''s truly rootless."

    "Let''s watch."

    With that, the shadowy figure seemed to drift away.

    Below the fighting tform, other contestants also scrutinized these two swordsmen.

    In the crowd, when Wuqing and the fierce, stunning Nine Kites stood together, they created a striking scene.

    "Do you know this man?" Wuqing asked, her voice soft and sweet.

    "Not really!" Nine Kites replied tersely.

    "I heard there''s an interesting story behind him?" Wuqing said curiously.

    Nine Kites gave her a cool nce.

    "Forget it, you have your engagement. Sorry." Wuqing smiled wistfully, then whispered, "I''m quite curious about him, though. Perhaps he holds some secrets."

    "If you''re drawn to him because he''s handsome, you''ll be disappointed," Nine Kites stated tly.

    "Why?"

    Nine Kites pointed at Yun Xiao¡¯s head, "He may look appealing on the outside, but inside, he''s quite foul¡ªvery vulgar."

    "Oh?" Wuqing bit her lip. "That¡¯s a harsh judgment for arade of your Thunder Department, isn¡¯t it?"

    Nine Kites remained silent, saying no more. She knew, with Yun Xiao having offended so many in the Thunder Department and with no help from the Chaos Sovereign, he was on a path to ruin.

    "Troubling Jian Chi, he better not perish in his first fight."

 Chapter 622: Judgment of 10,000 Daos!

    Chapter 622: Judgment of 10,000 Daos!

    The atmosphere was tense on the fighting tform.

    "Beyond the Celestial Expanse Realm is the Golden Immortal Realm, marking the state of a Great Golden Immortal. In this realm, the spirit further strengthens, forging the Golden Spirit Body. A spirit with such a body is indestructible, its aura immensely amplified, and itsbat prowess greatly heightened."

    Jian Chi was in the Golden Immortal Realm!

    Jiang Taiping, who was about to be promoted to a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer, was also at this level.

    To be a Golden Immortal before 30 years old was a sign of supreme talent bestowed by the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    At this moment, Jian Chi¡¯s icy gaze fixed upon Yun Xiao. He couldn¡¯t be bothered to utter a single word and struck immediately!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>His spirit manifested!

    Beside him appeared a spirit glowing with golden light, transforming into a celestial warrior d in golden armor sparkling with starlight!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    This celestial warrior bore the north star upon his armor, followed by six other stars to form a dipper.This was the legacy of Jian Chi¡¯s ancestors¡ªthe Northstar Golden Spirit!

    The battle hadn''t even begun. Yet, he had manifested his ancestral spirit

    In the Celestial Court, such a disy was an irond testament to generational might. Even in unfamiliar territories, the mere revtion of such a spirit could force many to their knees!

    This fighting tform was one of the most solemn stages in the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Surrounded by high-ranking Immortals, the atmosphere was eerily silent and grave, devoid of cheers or mor.

    However, when Jian Chi unveiled a never-before-seen Twin Sword Soul, it still caused a subtle stir.

    For some, it was their first time seeing it!

    Yun Xiao had not seen it either.

    There stood Jian Chi, in his right hand a zing golden Sword Soul, and between the fingers of his left, a Flying Sword shimmering with a cold silver light!

    ¡°From the Immortal Sword Courtes a heaven-blessed talent born with Twin Sword Souls. One is named Radiant Dawn, and the other Lunar Depth. Both are equally divine!¡±

    Even among the folks of the Celestial Court, there were songs in praise of Jian Chi.

    With the Radiant Dawn Sword Soul in his right hand, he executed moves grand and sweeping¡ªthe supreme master of the Palm Sword!

    In his left hand, the Lunar Depth Sword Soul was a sovereign among the Flying Swords, striking unseen and deadly.

    Young as Jian Chi was, the quality of both his Sword Souls was said to have reached the Divine Heaven grade, rivaling that of his elders. Few in the entire Celestial Court could im possession of Divine Heaven grade Sword Souls.

    From the very naming of the Divine Gateway, one could discern that this Divine Heaven grade was a human-defined pinnacle, surpassing the Dao Heaven grade of the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades. It was a level that, once reached, allowed one to stand unrivaled in the Heavenly Pce.

    Setting aside other considerations, the fact that each of these Twin Sword Souls harbored ten Sword Prisons was astonishing enough.

    On the Radiant Dawn Sword Soul, these ten Sword Prisons zed like ten fierce suns, circling the sword like suns around a pir, rolling with fiery fervor.

    On the Lunar Depth Sword Soul, ten chilling Sword Prisons shone like ten bright moons, casting a mesmerizing, cold glow!

    At this moment, Jian Chi, his eyes wildly fixated, wielded both swords. The Northstar Golden Spirit shone brilliantly above, and his mastery of the sword was indeed far superior to any opponent Yun Xiao had previously encountered.

    Take, for example, the Bai siblings with their mere Celestial Expanse Realmbat prowess and Vast Heaven grade Sword Souls¡ªthey were not even fit to carry the shoes of this Golden Immortal Realm young master of the Immortal Sword Court.

    "No wonder they say that the pinnacle of swordsmanship in the Celestial Court is only in the Sword Celestial Court..." Yun Xiao¡¯s pupils constricted! It was not fear or reverence that gripped him, but rather, a surge of excitement.

    This excitement, Jian Chi saw clearly.

    "Poor fool." He had no interest in witnessing any of Yun Xiao''s techniques.

    With his spirit and Sword Souls manifesting, Jian Chi wasted no time, directly harnessing the celestial power of a Golden Immortal, leaping across the Arena of Immortals, andunching a deadly assault on Yun Xiao!

    Both swords struck simultaneously!

    His left hand''s Lunar Depth Sword Soul, unleashed with the might of a Flying Sword, spun like thousands of crescent moons, forming a silver sword rain swirling towards Yun Xiao¡¯s back, aiming for his nape!

    Meanwhile, his right hand''s Radiant Dawn Sword Soul took ten consecutive steps forward, each step swinging the sword in an arc. After ten steps, the sword burst forth like a colossal sun, emitting blinding light, chopping directly towards Yun Xiao¡¯s head!

    And between these two swords, the Northstar Golden Spirit mingled, its starlight bolstering the swordsmanship.

    "Excellent!"

    Jian Chi''s dual strike elicited murmurs of approval from some of the elders.

    "Upper Supreme Heaven grade, Pursuing Sun Sword Canon and Northstar Spiral Sword..." the Moon Sword Goddess murmured.

    She hadn¡¯t expected that this swordsmanship prodigy, not yet 30 years old, had already evolved these two strongest sword techniques below the Dao Heaven grade to such an extent.

    From ancient times, those who could wield Upper Supreme Heaven grade techniques in the Immortal Tournament were few!

    "Jian Chi''s temperament ismendable, striking with full force regardless of the opponent''s level¡ªthis is the greatest respect one can show an enemy," the Longevity Immortal praised, smiling beside Empress Zhao.

    In the sh of lightning, the twin swords struck with a force that seemed to seize heaven and earth!

    How would Yun Xiao respond? Could he even respond?

    In the hearts of many Immortals, this opportunist was about to be exposed as a fraud, having finally met his match.

    Within the storm wrought by the circling sun and moon, there stood a lone youth, d in Rank 9 Arbiter armor, his eyes calm as a tranquilke.

    His opponent¡¯s twin swords appeared to dominate the cosmos.

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Xiao gripped his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, the de pointing skyward, a verdant streak against the azure.

    With only four Sword Prisons to his name, he was acknowledged as a sword prodigy, yet humbly so before the might of 20bined Sword Prisons.

    "The Arbiter must wield the force of 1,000 thunders, to judge on behalf of heaven, to adhere to celestial decrees, to possess a righteous heart, to patrol the cosmos, and to protect the path of all beings!"

    These were not Yun Xiao¡¯s own thoughts, but the creed from the Thunder Department¡¯s Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts!

    This was the mission of the Thunder Department, and indeed, their belief!

    And where had that belief gone now?

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t buy into the brainwashing, the self-deception that he could achieve an unobstructed path of enlightenment like Liu Chaochao merely by belief alone!

    If he truly had reached enlightenment, how could he live up to the scripture written in these secret arts?

    This moment, this battle in the Immortal Tournament, belonged to the guardians of celestial order, an arena of honor, not a stepping stone for celestial scions seeking bureaucratic ascent!

    To wield the might of thunder, one must first summon rage!

    Yun Xiao, holding the Heaven Burial Sword, was a whirlwind of fury. Thunder crackled around him, his hair wild in the tempest!

    <em>RUMBLE RUMBLE RUMBLE! </em>Thunder from heaven and earth swarmed, exploding overhead, coalescing into tens of thousands of thunder dragons, swirling down in convergence. In an instant, the ferocity of his single strike surpassed the twin swords of Jian Chi!

    "Thunder Department¡¯s Dao Heaven Art, Judgment of 10,000 Daos?"

    In a setting that should have remained unshaken, at least a score of Immortals straightened their spines, eyes wide with disbelief, watching the youth surrounded by a maelstrom of wrathful dragons!

    Among the onlookers, the most astounded were Yun Yin and Gu Suwan, recalling the scene when Yun Xiao had merely observed Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts. Their minds went nk!

    Within the tempest of thunder, they witnessed a true Arbiter!

    Fierce! Righteous! Dutiful! Furious!

    A single sword dered the judgment of 10,000 daos!

    Yun Xiao''s eyes, surging with thunder, suddenly fixed upon Jian Chi. With one sh, a convergence of 10,000 dragons within a thunderous storm, the sword swallowed the divine light of sun and moon, engulfing the entire fighting tform in a deafening roar!

    One sword shattered the arena!

    "Dao Heaven Art?!" All that Jian Chi had yearned for and believed in was overwhelmed in an instant, like a dam bursting!

    His eyes widened!

    In the midst of the thunderous roar, Yun Xiao''s azure sword, swirling with 10,000 dragons, not only crushed the Northstar Spiral Sword attack of the Lunar Depth Sword Soul. But also, with the majestic might of thunder, he cleaved through the Radiant Dawn Sword Soul. The direct assault exploded forward, striking Jian Chi squarely in the forehead!

    One sword, one defeat!

    Jian Chi''s prized Twin Sword Souls, one scattered and the other beaten back¡ªhis eyes suddenly ruptured with tears of blood and pain.

    His Northstar Golden Spirit shattered!

    The more obsessed, the harder the fall!

    <em>THUD! </em>Before the death strike couldnd, Jian Chi copsed to his knees!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s sword tip halted an inch from his brow, yet the thunderous sword intent of the Judgment of 10,000 Daos surged from Jian Chi''s sides, roaring out a thousand meters. Wherever it passed, thunder surged!

    In that moment, with the sword point at his brow, the victor was clear!

    Even the stage fell into a hush.

    "Kill me!" Jian Chi suddenly grasped Yun Xiao''s sword, his voice hoarse, tears and blood streaming.

    With a snicker, Yun Xiao withdrew the Heaven Burial Sword Soul from his grip and stepped down from the fighting tform.

    Truth be told, he had wanted to kill Jian Chi.

    But just now, his sword couldn''t advance even half an inch.

    There were too many powerful beings in the Celestial Court!

    The painstakingly nurtured scions of others weren¡¯t so easily in.

    Yet Yun Xiao knew, with Jian Chi''s defeat and his spirit damaged, it made no difference if he was dead or not.

    Living would be more painful!

    And he, stepping over this top sword prodigy, turned to meet the stunned, speechless stares!

    The Moon Sword Goddess, Gu Suwan, and Yun Yin¡­ their mouths hung open, wordless.

    And before him, Wuqing, Nine Kites, and others, their pretty faces slightly moved¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 623: You Deserve to Be Proud

    Chapter 623: You Deserve to Be Proud

    In a single move, the number one sword prodigy of the Celestial Court was determined!

    The duel was brutally simple, swift and decisive!

    It didn''t matter if Jian Chi possessed twin Divine Heaven grade Sword Souls or that he dedicated 30 years of his life wholeheartedly to the sword... Before the ferocious Judgment of a Thousand Daos, the culmination of all his talents and efforts were instantly crushed by overwhelming power!

    The thunderous sword of the Judgment of 10,000 Daos swept across, stirring a tumult among the highest-ranking Immortals, a disturbance hard to calm.

    Born tomoners in a frontier city and not even 30 years old, Yun Xiao had crushed the young master nurtured for 30 years by the Immortal Sword Court using the Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts of the Thunder Department... Surely, there was a mystery there, something extraordinary.

    "Yun Yin!"

    Above, seated on a cloud, was a noblewoman in a golden gown, bearing a resemnce to the Moon Sword Goddess, though less aloof and more passionate, her eyes zing like fire.

    From her seat, she was likely also a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer. But she was shooting an usatory re at Yun Yin.

    "Sun Sword Goddess." Of all the onlookers, Yun Yin was the most shocked. As the Rank 2 Heavenly Officer who oversaw the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, he knew theplexity of the Thunder Department''s Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts!

    "Aren''t your Thunder Department''s Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts not supposed to be taught to those below Rank 2?" The Sun Sword Goddess raised her eyebrows, her tone pressing.

    Yun Yin, facing her fiery anger, responded calmly, "The transmission of secret arts within the Thunder Department is our own affair."

    "So, this boy isn¡¯t the son of the Chaos Sovereign, but rather a secret weapon you¡¯ve cultivated for vengeance?" the Sun Sword Goddess said coldly.

    "..." Yun Yin was momentarily speechless. Before this battle, even he had thought that without the Chaos Sovereign''s endorsement, this young man was doomed.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yet, Yun Xiao''s use of the Ten Great Dao Heaven Art''s had led to another misunderstanding?

    "Sun Sword Goddess, you''re overthinking things too much. Lu Yao is merely amon Rank 6 Arbiter of the Thunder Department. He''s neither our secret weapon, nor specially trained by us," Yun Yin quickly replied.

    Unfortunately, the Sun Sword Goddess'' mind was already made. So, Yun Yin''s response only served to infuriate her further. She turned to an aloof silver-haired woman behind her and said, "Yue Yin, what an apprentice you''ve taken! You''ve let the Thunder Department make a fool of you!"

    "Sister¡­" The Moon Sword Goddess, also veiled in mists, could only bow her head and say, "I have severed ties with him. Whatever he does is no longer my concern."

    Though she said this, the young man she was convinced was doomed had once again unsettled her.

    In that moment, the future of the Immortal Sword Court had been decisively turned on its head!

    "Oh? But doesn''t your disciple still recognize you as his master?"

    A few people congratted the Moon Sword Goddess on her newfound sword prodigy.

    Such congrattions, though meant as a joke, lodged a bitter lump in the throat of the Moon Sword Goddess, increasingly ufortable as the voices of congrattions multiplied.

    "Could this genius be a coborative creation of the Great Dao Celestial Army, the Thunder Department, and the Immortal Sword Court?" one suggested, hinting at a possible alliance over this prodigious youth.

    Mostments in this manner were made in jest, with little genuine belief behind them. After all, so far, the Great Dao Celestial Army had not publicly supported Yun Xiao.

    Regardless, the first battle had concluded.

    After effectively stepping over the head of the Immortal Sword Court''s young master, Yun Xiao had brought the name Lu Yao to the forefront of the divinend of the Celestial Court.

    "Mother," Jian Chi approached the Sun Sword Goddess. He appeared more a ghost than a man, his spirit dim and disoriented as if he''d lost his consciousness.

    Seeing her son in such a state naturally cut the Sun Sword Goddess to the core.

    "To be so easily shattered by a single defeat; what then was the point of your 30 years of arduous cultivation? Were they merely bubbles?" From afar, a lofty ck sword shadow spoke, its voice piercing like a sword through Jian Chi''s ears.

    "Father!" Jian Chi gritted his teeth. "I never imagined being eliminated in the round of 16, nor did I foresee being so thoroughly bested by a peer in swordsmanship. You can''t understand that feeling."

    "The path of immortality is infinite, and for every mountain climbed, a higher one looms unseen. If you crumble after one defeat, then this path is not for you," the ck sword shadow advised.

    "You speak from experience, earned from the Chaos Sovereign, don''t you?" Jian Chi paused, his voice deep. Just then, a chilling pain seized him, as if he''d been plunged into the icy depths of Tartarus. All of this was from the icy gaze of his father!

    "Enough, he''s suffered enough for today. If you want to teach him, choose a better time," said the Sun Sword Goddess, her heart aching, shielding her son. "Stay here; I''m going to bid farewell to the Empress Dowager, and then we will return to the Immortal Sword Court."

    "No," Jian Chi shook his head, fixating on Yun Xiao. "He defeated me, but at least he represents the swordsmanship that overcame me. He must make it to the top three; I must see it with my own eyes!"

    "He represents the Thunder Department, perhaps even the Great Dao Celestial Army, but certainly not the Sword Court," the ck sword shadow sneered.

    Jian Chi bowed his head, silent, yet a fierce pride burned within him. He knew as long as Yun Xiao advanced, his own defeat wouldn''t seem as disgraceful. He needed to prove how formidable his opponent was!

    And he had felt it profoundly, the terror of his rival!

    Unwittingly, Jian Chi had pinned his bright swordsmanship dreams, once destined for the Divine Gateway, onto Yun Xiao¡­

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "How did you learn it?" Gu Suwan''s lips parted slightly in surprise as she stared at the calm youth before her.

    "Just like with Ascend the Heavens and Misty Rebirth, it wasn''t hard," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Alright then."

    His casual dismissal of difficulty slightly shook Gu Suwan''s resolve. Before this battle, she had given up on this foster son of hers.

    But now, she was somewhat intimidated, though she said nothing, and stood very close to Yun Xiao. To an outsider, they might have looked like a doting mother and son.

    This scene was interrupted by the arrival of a <em>true</em> nobledy.

    The girl in a short blue-violet dress, Nine Kites, nced at Yun Xiao and said, "May I have a word?"

    "She''s not a stranger," Yun Xiao replied, referring to Gu Suwan.

    "Indeed¡­ but I''ll step aside," Gu Suwan said. This was the daughter of the Nine Thunders Sovereign, a future Imperial Consort. She did not dare to offend her and quickly stepped back.

    "Lu Yao," Nine Kites''s violet eyes locked on him, "As a man, can you be straightforward and tell me, are you the son of Sovereign Lu?"

    "I can." Yun Xiao nodded, then added, "I am not."

    "Do you swear to it?" Nine Kites raised an eyebrow.

    "No need for oaths. The situation isplex, but ultimately, I am not," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Fine," Nine Kites pursed her lips. "Then I can also tell you inly, based on your performance today, if you wish to continue bringing honor to the Thunder Department, my father is willing to nurture you."

    "Oh? But I killed Feng Qi," Yun Xiao mentioned.

    "Feng Qi is just a minor loss on the battlefield, my father can overlook that," Nine Kites responded.

    "Are you sure?" Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Of course. After all, the honor of the Thunder Department is more important," she said, ncing at the others gathered around and sighed softly. "You know, this Immortal Tournament has many strong participants, and I am somewhat overwhelmed."

    "I understand. But you should know, Feng Qi and Feng Xuan are the Chaos Sovereign''s people," Yun Xiao pointed out.

    "My father doesn''t fear the Chaos Sovereign!" Nine Kites suddenly dered passionately. "As long as you have no ties to him, as long as you can bring home the glory that has long been absent from the Thunder Department, and truly wish to be a legend and a pir of our future, we in the Thunder Department can truly ept you."

    After speaking, she gave Yun Xiao a deep look and added, "I know your nature is proud, which makes many ufortable, but given your performance against Jian Chi, you deserve to be so proud."

    "It''s too good to be true," Yun Xiao said with mock emotion. "Honestly, when I first entered the Thunder Department, it felt likeing home. It was there I felt the warmth of a family..."

    "Save it!" Nine Kites rolled her eyes, then whispered a reminder, "My future is likely to unfold right here in the heart of the Celestial Court. So as long as you maintain your integrity, you''re bound to achieve great things in the Thunder Department."

    "The real question is, does your father agree? Does the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General agree? Gu Zhenxiao is still after my Sword Soul," Yun Xiao said coolly.

    "Would he dare?" Nine Kites''s expression chilled. "Don''t worry, I call the shots here, and my father listens to me!"

    Yun Xiao could tell, this was her own wishful thinking.

    Her motivation was simple: the pressure was immense. It was a tournament meant for Arbiters, and yet the Thunder Department had failed to ce in the top three repeatedly, leaving its representatives without glory.

    Thisck of sess even prevented the Nine Thunders Sovereign from holding his head high in the Celestial Court.

    Competitors like Jian Chi, Zhao Yuanbao, and Wuqing had put immense pressure on her.

    Yun Xiao''s victory over Jian Chi had indeed stunned her.

    "You''re naive, yet not so naive." Yun Xiao suddenlyughed.

    "What do you mean by that?" Nine Kites asked, displeased.

    "Never mind, let''s watch the match!" Yun Xiao gestured towards the fighting tform.

    Indeed, following his match with Jian Chi, the second duelmenced.

    Thebatant was Zhao Yuanbao, facing Gu Zhenshi.

    This match was predictable: Zhao Yuanbao, an Inscription Cultivator, simply unleashed a Life Sigil and a magic treasure that left Gu Zhenshi''s face swollen.

    The result was expected. A Golden Immortal could easily overpower someone in the Celestial Expanse Realm.

    "If it weren''t for your strong start, the chances of any of our nine from the Thunder Department making the quarterfinals would have been slim..." Nine Kites''s words seemed prophetic as each subsequent match unfolded, with Thunder Department¡¯s prodigies struggling to articte their performances.

    Most were simply crushed!

    "Out of nine, only one match was an internal sh, the other seven faced honorary Arbiters."

    Clearly, these so-called random duels were orchestrated by Empress Dowager Zhao herself. Her hands yed with the fates of the youth whimsically.

    Yun Xiao and Jian Chi''s opening match had also been her doing, indicating her keen interest in Yun Xiao!

    "The Thunder Department is stillcking!" The Longevity Immortal sighed as one conclusion after another was revealed.

    After Yun Xiao''s fight, in six bouts, the Thunder Department won only one.

    That one was the internal sh where Yun Alter defeated another peer from the Thunder Department¡­

    The rest were defeats!

    So far, out of seven honorary Arbiters, five had made the quarterfinals, along with Yun Xiao and Yun Alter, filling seven of the eight spots.

    Only one spot remained.

    "You''re closing the show," Yun Xiao said to Nine Kites.

    He noticed that from the seventh match''s draw, Nine Kites''s expression had darkened.

    "Yes..." Nine Kites looked into the distance, biting her lip, "But this An Yao, who is about topete, hasn''t even shown up yet. Such disrespect, much like the Chaos Sovereign himself..."

    Yun Xiao''s gaze grew cold as he asked, "You mean to say, this disciple of the Chaos Sovereign is named ''An Yao''?"

 Chapter 624: Black Lotus Anima Immortal!

    Chapter 624: ck Lotus Anima Immortal!

    "What''s the problem with the name An Yao?" Nine Kites asked. She clearly didn''t know Lu Yao well enough to realize he had an older brother named Lu An.

    "What does that imply?" Yun Xiao asked Blue Star, huddled in his robes.

    "It implies nothing much; either this transmigrated soul has a twisted sense of humor, or there''s a lingering consciousness from Lu Bufan, transforming him into another person. Otherwise, how could he rise so high and yet forsake his wife and child?" Blue Star quipped with a twist of his mouth.

    "Hmm." Yun Xiao then asked Nine Kites, "This An Yao, was he raised by Sovereign Lu?"

    "So they say. Though a disciple, he was always nurtured as a true son..." Nine Kites looked at Yun Xiao strangely, "Are you pretending to be ignorant of Sovereign Lu, or do you genuinely not know?"

    Nine Kites was hardly convinced that Yun Xiao and the Chaos Sovereign actually shared some sort of rtionship. It was tantly obvious that this young Arbiter from a frontier city was clueless about everything.

    She even suspected Yun Xiao was deliberately feigning ignorance to deceive her.

    Yun Xiao didn''t answer her directly but just smiled.

    The might of the Chaos Sovereign had been borrowed enough for the onset of the Immortal Tournament; as long as the fightingmenced smoothly, he was indifferent, relying now on his own performance!At least for now, Yun Xiao''s demeanor had won Nine Kites''s favor.

    As for Yun Xiao''s connection with the Chaos Sovereign, how it would end, ultimately depended on the man himself.

    "If nothing goes wrong, this An Yao will reveal the Chaos Sovereign''s stance."

    And if Yun Xiao''s suspicions were correct, An Yao would make his appearance right before the start of his appointed match. After all, that was how the <em>protagonist</em> should behave.

    In the eighth and final match of the round of 16, Empress Zhao handed over thest two white jade peaches to the Longevity Immortal.

    Nine Kites ascended the fighting tform first.

    When the Longevity Immortal announced An Yao''s name, from the direction of the Divine Heavenly Pavilion, a shadow hurriedly approached.

    It was a gaunt young man in ck, robes with a face so ordinary that he would be unnoticed in a crowd. In this assembly of high ranking Immortals, he seemed out of ce, yet paradoxically conspicuous.

    He appeared with a smile as bright as the sun, bowed, and said, "Greetings, Your Majesty, as well as all the honored guests gathered here. I deeply apologize for beingte."

    Empress Zhao had been silent until now, but suddenly, with a smile, she said, "An Yao¡­ True to your name, you are <em>serene</em> and <em>carefree</em>, uniquely independent. You have deeply inherited your master''s teachings, treating the world with irreverent wit, which is quite amusing."

    "Your Majesty''s high praise leaves me abashed," the youth in ck robes replied, smiling as he made his entrance.

    Though his appearance was ordinary, he instantly became the focus of all attention.

    The various Immortals had been displeased by his tardiness. But not even Empress Zhao was angered, and she evenplimented him. Who then could dare toin?

    Above the clouds, stern gazes fell upon An Yao. Amid the calm, a fierce undercurrent was swirling.

    With An Yao''s arrival on the battle tform, the final match of the round of 16 had truly begun!

    "Hello, Miss Nine Kites!" An Yao''s lips curved slightly in a grin. His gaze on Nine Kites was pure yet carried an unmistakable heat, which the young woman distinctly felt.

    "An impudent and ill-bred man." Nine Kites cursed silently in her mind, preferring not to engage further with An Yao.

    She was a noble daughter of the Nine Thunders Sovereign! Men born of lowly origins, such as Sovereign Lu and An Yao, carried a rebellious streak that made her ufortable.

    On any normal day, even Rank 2 Heavenly Officers would treat her with deference. Yet, An Yao''s gaze seemed almost to strip her bare... She was already betrothed to an imperial prince. So, how dare he be so bold?

    By contrast, although Yun Xiao had indeed seen her unclothed, his gaze was always calm, and since she had <em>gotten even</em> with him, Nine Kites harbored no ill impressions of him.

    But now, just one look from An Yao, and she felt an intolerable offense! That faint smirk of his especially¡­ it seemed as if he saw her as a conquest, strategizing every move against her.

    Just one look was all it took for Nine Kites to reach her limit.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Without another word, she demonstrated her power!

    Her blue-violet gown swirling, her body crackled with lightning, bursting forth. Countless tendrils of electricity spread outward, instantly forming eight true forms of young maidens, each a clone of blood and flesh!

    She split into nine!

    "Nine Sovereigns Thunder Form."

    Onlookers murmured the name, their eyes filled with envy.

    This Nine Sovereigns Thunder Form, a n talent of the Nine Thunders Sovereign family, allowed one to split into nine, each a true form. Not only did this grant ninefoldbat prowess, but it was akin to possessing nine lives!

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, those who could lead a department had extraordinary heritage!

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign was one of the Celestial Court''s top Martial Immortals. Hemanded the violent paths of thunder and stood unparalleled!

    As a Martial Immortal, Nine Kites''s nine forms were each as tough as that of any demon or devil!

    <em>SNAP! SNAP! SNAP! </em>Enveloped in surging electric snakes and arranging herself in nine directions, she formed a miniature Thunder Immortal Array, trapping the nonchnt An Yao within.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Just then, one of the Nine Kitess unfolded a violet scroll!

    Inside this violet scroll were painted nine lifelike <em>Thunder Kites,</em> their bodies writhing with electricity. They sprang forth from the scroll, transforming into nine celestial weapons, each falling into the hands of Nine Kites''s nine forms.

    Each of the nine weapons was distinct¡ªthere was a knife, a spear, a sword, a halberd, an ax, a hook, a trident, and a whip!

    Commanding the nine Thunder Kites turned into celestial weapons, Nine Kites stood amidst the thunderstorm, radiating a stunning valor like a thunder goddess, her beauty striking, eliciting waves of admiration.

    "Violet Lightning Weapons Chart, a Divine Heaven grade celestial treasure."

    "You can tell the Nine Thunders Sovereign really dotes on his daughter. He actually entrusted such a precious treasure to her."

    "Nine Kites''s young age and control also speak to her exceptional talent."

    "Has the Thunder Department seen such a promising young Arbiter in recent times?"

    The high-ranking Immortals wereughing and warmly discussing amongst each other.

    After Yun Xiao, the Thunder Department''s performance had been hit and miss, but now, Nine Kites had elevated their standing again, somewhat salvaging the reputation of the entire Thunder Department.

    "With Nine Kites''s capabilities, there''s a solid chance she could reim the championship for the Thunder Department."

    "However, her opponent is an Anima Immortal, whose mysterious powers might not be so easily ovee."

    As the Immortals were speaking, Nine Kites¡¯s cold eyes swept forward, her celestial warrior''s might thundering toward An Yao!

    Within her formation, An Yao seemed like a ck skiff in a stormy sea, appearing as if it could be torn apart at any moment.

    The disparity in their strength was starkly evident at this moment!

    But just then, An Yao looked up, his eyes deep, smiling at Nine Kites, "Rough and wild, I like that."

    "Shut up!" Nine Kites was even more infuriated.

    How dare he speak such words to a daughter promised to an imperial prince?

    In her hands, the nine celestial weapons whirled up thousands of electric serpents, shing, piercing, and whipping down!

    "Spicy indeed, almost too hot for me." An Yao grinned. He extended his hand, and a ck lotus blossomed in his palm. It was spinning gently, exuding an eerie aura¡ªnot of physical force, but of a storm of spiritual power.

    "Go, my darling."

    With a tap on the lotus, the petals scattered, precisely nine in total.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The seemingly innocuous nine ck lotus petals vanished from sight and shot towards Nine Kites''s nine forms!

    In an instant, the petals, faster than before, mmed into her delicate bodies, right past her celestial weapons!

    "Ah!" Nine Kites''s face paled instantly, her thunderous eyes suddenly mirroring a ck lotus!

    Following the ck lotus, her nine forms'' offensive halted abruptly, all thunderous power shattered, all celestial weapons fell to the ground, and she herself slowly copsed...

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Her nine forms merged back into one, yet her gaze remained confused.

    "Are you alright?"

    Suddenly, a hand reached out to her.

    Nine Kites shook her head and looked up. Beneath the glowing light, the youth in ck offered a tender smile, so clear and pure, devoid of any prior annoyance.

    "Miss Nine Kites, thank you for your leniency," An Yao gently pulled her up, then promptly released her hand.

    For some reason, the moment he let go, Nine Kites felt an emptiness inside, inexplicably mncholic.

    "His hand was so warm..." Thinking this, warmth surged in Nine Kites''s heart, a sweetness blossomed, and for a moment, she even forgot her defeat.

    After a while, from the nces of those around her, she realized she had indeed lost!

    For this battle, she had given her all, practiced diligently for over 20 years, vowed to her father to reim glory and dignity for the Thunder Department. She had thought if she failed, she would regret it for life... but why didn''t it hurt as much as she expected now?

    She looked at the youth in ck, her eyes moist and slightly red, but no tears would fall...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 625: Taisui Sigil Palace!

    Chapter 625: Taisui Sigil Pce!

    "Don''t fret. Worstes to worst, if I win, I''ll simply join your Thunder Department," An Yao said gently, his voice barely above a whisper.

    "Mhmm," Nine Kites nodded silently.

    "This isn''t the ce to talk. After the tournament ends, I''ll find you at the Celestial Hall," An Yao murmured, then shed a wicked smile and turned away, stepping down from the fighting tform amidst a deathly silence.

    His smile was mischievous, and for some reason, it set hearts fluttering uncontrobly... Nine Kites had to suppress the strange feelings rising within her as she silently walked down from the tform.

    Yet, in her mind''s eye, the boy''s simple and genuine smile lingered, inescapable.

    Even the surrounding buzz of excited discussions became indistinct to her.

    The high-ranking Immortals, each with a look of regret and helplessness, watched her. The Thunder Department''s only hope was dashed, and it seemed that the likes of Yun Yin and Gu Suwan felt even more heartbroken than Nine Kites herself.

    The likes of Gu Zhenshi, Man Huo, and Yun Alter couldn''t even lift their heads, their eyes brimming with despair.

    "An Yao truly is a monster.""A disciple personally trained by the Chaos Sovereign, cut from the same cloth. No matter how strong the opponent, he crushes them."

    "Nine Kites had the potential to make the top three, but she showed no resistance at all... After this battle, is there any doubt left about who will be the champion of this Immortal Tournament?"

    The Chaos Sovereign wasn''t there, but his terrifying presence, as always, was suffocating the celestial hosts.

    With that, the first round ended!

    When tallying up all the performances, the Thunder Department suffered the most. Out of nine contenders, seven were defeated in the first round¡ªthe daughter of the Nine Thunders Sovereign included!

    Only Yun Xiao and Yun Alter remained standing.

    With Yun Xiao as the tragic underdog, even Jian Chi seemed less unfortunate byparison.

    Everyone thought Nine Kites couldn''t bear the brutal reality of her defeat. As she descended from the tform, figures like Yun Yin and Gu Suwan hurried to greet her.

    "Little Nine!"

    Suddenly, amidst a surge of radiant light from the sky, a man d in a ck and gold robe descended. He stood tall and regal before Nine Kites, his presencemanding with an Emperor''s dignity. His age was simr to that of Liu Chaochao, a young man in the prime of his maturity.

    In appearance, this man far surpassed An Yao, both in aura and heritage, exuding theforting solidity of fine white jade.

    "Sixth Prince."

    Upon the Sixth Prince''s arrival, Yun Yin and the others stepped back.

    The Sixth Prince, known simply as Zhen, looked slightly worried as he reached out for Nine Kites, his voice gentle, "Victory and defeat are dictated by the heavens. You are young, do not lose heart. The path of immortality is not about sudden enlightenment but about enduring the mysteries of the world over millennia."

    Nine Kites nced at the white jade-like hand before her, feeling an inexplicable repulsion. She found this man''s sanctimonious appearance far less genuine than Lu Yao''s carefree nature.

    Yet, she steeled herself, extending her hand to his, and replied softly, "I understand, thank you, Prince Zhen."

    Seeing herposed, the Sixth Prince rxed, "Let''s forget about this tournament. I promised to take you to the Devil''s Cave to see the Great Firefallst month, and I happen to be free now. Let''s set off."

    "Prince Zhen..." Nine Kites lowered her head, suppressing her distaste, "I must stay until the end of the tournament."

    "The Thunder Department has no hope, what''s there to see? It''ll only add to your troubles." The Sixth Prince shook his head.

    "There is still hope," Nine Kites suddenly said, recalling someone, "That Lu Yao, he managed to defeat Jian Chi. He might have a chance against An Yao."

    "Him?" the Sixth Prince nced at the divinely handsome youth in Arbiter armor, pursed his lips, and said, "This one does have some secrets, but..."

    He didn''t continue. Over the years, too many had been <em>shocked</em> by the Chaos Sovereign.

    Now, Lu Yao had joined that startling roster!

    Those who doubted the Chaos Sovereign had long been proven wrong, their doubts swelling their faces with embarrassment.

    Though the Sixth Prince held a high status, even he felt the sting of being proven wrong.

    "Let''s give it a try! At least he''s from the Thunder Department." Nine Kites, fighting the churn in her stomach, coaxed the Sixth Prince.

    "Alright," the Sixth Prince could only nod, then added, "You mean to say the Thunder Department is sure this young man has no ties to the Chaos Sovereign? Let''s not have another of his pawns."

    "At least I''m sure of it," Nine Kites asserted with confidence.

    "You," the Sixth Prince pinched her nose andughed helplessly, "such a child at heart..."

    He let her have her way.

    After all, soon after the tournament, they were to have a grand wedding. The bride joining the imperial family shouldn''t be gloomy.

    "Then I''m going to find Lu Yao!" Nine Kites hurriedly said.

    She preferred seeking out Lu Yao to staying any longer with the Sixth Prince, whom she once admired as a mature and stable lover. But today, everything about him seemed off¡ªevery whisker on his face felt misced!

    The more she looked, the less she liked!

    "Go ahead," the Sixth Prince said, resigned.

    Nine Kites approached Yun Xiao and Yun Alter with a sense of urgency, dering, "You two,e with me!"

    "This..." Yun Alter hesitated, "The quarter finals starts in an hour."

    That hour was for the participants to recuperate, heal, and restore themselves.

    "Let''s talk somewhere else!" Nine Kites red.

    Yun Xiao said nothing and followed her to the Divine Heavenly Pavilion.

    On the way, Yun Alter''s expression hardened, "This An Yao, he''s too overbearing! It''s one thing to be dismissive, but he also..."

    "Just shut up. There''s nothing to be said if you''re not his equal. Don''t attack his character," Nine Kites snapped.

    Puzzled, Yun Alter asked, "He''s blocked your path and destroyed all our aspirations and dreams. Don''t you hate him?"

    "Do you hate him?" Nine Kites asked coldly.

    "I do! I wish I could kill him right now... but s, Ick the strength. All I can do now is give everything to make the semifinals, to vie for a spot among the top three!" Yun Alter''s eyes zed with determination.

    He was willing to gamble his life for this obsession.

    "Nine Kites, our Thunder Department can''t afford another loss! If not one of us makes it to the semifinals, we''ll be theughing stock for years. We are the true heirs of the Arbiter!" His voice was hoarse with distress.

    "That''s enough, you''re no longer needed. Get out."

    Before they even reached the Divine Heavenly Pavilion, Nine Kites had dismissed him.

    "I won''t give up, regardless!"

    Yun Alter''s statement implied he thought Nine Kites had conceded too quickly. He had expected her to stand and fight to the death. But instead, she had simply left the tform!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    This was not the Nine Kites he knew. Feeling somewhat angry, he could say no more and turned back toward the tform.

    Now only Nine Kites and Yun Xiao were left.

    "Do you truly hope that I can uphold thest shred of dignity for the Thunder Department?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    "Yes¡­" Nine Kites was conflicted. She had initially just wanted to shake off the Sixth Prince, and now, with only this young man in white before her, her thoughts were in disarray.

    "Your father doesn''t really have any hopes for you, otherwise, he would have been here," Yun Xiao said.

    "Shut up! He, he just doesn''t want to be embarrassed... but he must be concerned..." Nine Kites struggled to say.

    "What do you think of An Yao?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    "I..." Nine Kites was even more confused, her heart troubled by the expectations of her father and the image of An Yao, making her irritable. She shook her head, "Stop asking. Right now, I just need to know, can you keep fighting for the Thunder Department? At least make it into the top three. Even second ce would be fine."

    "Of course," Yun Xiao agreed without hesitation, then looked deeply at her and said, "But I have a condition."

    "Speak!"

    At that moment, Nine Kites was reminded of the hopes of her father, the Nine Thunders Sovereign. She yearned to restore some dignity for the Thunder Department.

    "I only have one Rune Prison during the break, which is quite low. You''ve been around the Celestial Court, think of a way, find a ce that could boost my Rune Prisons," Yun Xiao said.

    "Are you crazy? Clinging tost-minute hopes?" Nine Kites said incredulously.

    "One hour for me is like years for you," Yun Xiao replied.

    "You..." Nine Kites fumed, ring at him before finally saying, "The Sixth Prince''s master, Taisui Sage, owns a Taisui Sigil Pce nearby. I often visit. They''re both at the tform now. I''ll... I''ll take you there to <em>borrow</em> it for a while!"

    "Borrow?" Yun Xiaoughed. "Don''t be silly. You''re practically the futuredy of the Taisui Sigil Pce. You already own it!"

 Chapter 626: Rune Lake, Taking a Dip!

    Chapter 626: Rune Lake, Taking a Dip!

    With urgency pressing and no time to waste, Yun Xiao urged Nine Kites forward. She led him through the lingering mists of the Celestial Court, over rivers and mystical mountains, until they beheld the elegant spires of many a pce ahead, clustered around the peaks.

    They had arrived at the Taisui Sigil Pce.

    Nine Kites steered their colorful thunderclouds, guiding Yun Xiao to alight before this grand edifice. Looking up, Yun Xiao saw the pce¡¯s simple facade which belied itsplexity. The walls, lined with zed bricks, were interwoven with magical arrays and symbols that shimmered in the flowing light¡ªingenious and sublime, a testament to wisdom at every turn.

    At the entrance of the Taisui Sigil Pce stood a boy. Yun Xiao half expected Nine Kites to try and sneak him in covertly. Instead, Nine Kites approached openly and boldly.

    ¡°That boy is a Jiangshi made by the Taisui Sage. Hecks true sentience. I¡¯ll handle the talking; you stay quiet,¡± Nine Kites whispered to Yun Xiao before moving toward the child.

    The boy, d in a ck and white daoist robe with his hair neatly tied up, was conspicuously pale. His demeanor was somewhat stiff, and a yellow talisman clung to his forehead, emitting a faint, eerie light.

    Yun Xiao sensed that this boy, thoughcking real intelligence, possessed formidable strength.

    ¡°Greetings, Miss Nine Kites,¡± the boy said with a smile, bowing to Nine Kites as she approached.

    ¡°Hmm! Are Prince Zhen and the Taisui Sage inside?¡± Nine Kites asked knowingly.¡°They are not,¡± the boy replied.

    ¡°No matter, I¡¯m here to retrieve some items,¡± Nine Kites said casually, walking past the boy.

    He made no move to stop her, but as Yun Xiao followed, the boy¡¯s eyes suddenly narrowed, casting a chilling gaze upon him.

    ¡°Who is this intruder?¡± he asked.

    "He''s my junior from the Thunder Department; he''s with me," Nine Kites stated, her displeasure evident.

    The boy was silent for a moment before bowing deeply to Yun Xiao. "Underling from the Thunder Department, please, enter."

    "Thank you."

    Without changing his expression, Yun Xiao stepped past the boy, entering the Taisui Sigil Pce with Nine Kites.

    Pushing open the door, they were greeted by a vast expanse of a courtyard enveloped in celestial mist, elegant and serene. It was evident that the owner held high status and refined taste within the Celestial Court.

    Once inside, Yun Xiao noticed that the entire pce was staffed with Jiangshi children, each with a talisman affixed to their foreheads, busy with their assigned duties. As they passed, each child greeted Nine Kites before returning to their tasks.

    "These Jiangshi children produce a vast quantity of talismans daily, allowing the Taisui Sagel to profit handsomely without lifting a finger. He has no heirs, so eventually, this pce will belong to me and Prince Zhen..." Nine Kites began casually, but as she spoke, she bit her lip, seemingly uneasy about the future.

    "Arranged marriages can be ufortable, huh? A bit of the wild in a man is more appealing to a girl," Yun Xiao said with a lightugh.

    "What are you talking about? You and me? That''s impossible," Nine Kites retorted, dismissively.

    "Am I bad?" Yun Xiao shook his head. "Don¡¯t misjudge; I¡¯m a decent man."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Let''s drop this topic!"

    Indeed, Nine Kites''s heart was set on someone else, and she knew it was even less likely, so she preferred not to discuss it to avoid being upset.

    "I¡¯ll take you to the Lesser Sigil Hall, where Prince Zhen usually crafts his talismans. His Rune Pen, Rune Spirit Ink, and the inscription manuals are all there... But honestly, I don¡¯t believe you can aplish anything significant with your Rune Prison situation in just one hour. The disciplines of sword and sigil are the result of years of painstaking cultivation, not something to be mastered overnight."

    Speaking thus, Nine Kites herself felt a bit possessed and chaotic¡ªhow could she, for the glory of the Thunder Department and the dignity of her forebears, bring this young man here to the Taisui Sigil Pce to steal things?

    "Lead the way," Yun Xiao said. There was no need for argument; he was pressed for time.

    Together, they sped through the estate, brushing past numerous Jiangshi children along the way. These creatures seemed interconnected; when the first did not stop Yun Xiao, the others paid him no heed.

    The two had not yet reached the Lesser Sigil Hall when Yun Xiao halted on a white jade bridge.

    "What''s the matter?" Nine Kites asked, turning back.

    Yun Xiao looked down into a vastke below the bridge, where the water shimmered with a mystic light. On closer inspection, he noticed countless water-like Runes swimming like aquatic nts and fish, ying throughout theke. These Runes filled theke densely, too numerous to count, some even clustering into small arrays, mimicking the function of celestial formations.

    "What is this?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "It¡¯s the Rune Lake," Nine Kites paused, "It¡¯s where the Taisui Sage discards all unused Runes. Over time, it has turned into this bizarre Rune Lake. Even the water is infused with Runes."

    "How long has it been?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Nearly 1,000 years." Nine Kites nced at him, adding, "But it¡¯s just a spectacle, really. It serves no purpose, just a dump for rejects. Last I heard, Prince Zhen''s master thought about cleaning it out."

    "Don¡¯t ever clean it; this is a treasure," Yun Xiao¡¯s lips curled into a slight smile.

    Nine Kites paused, about to ask if he was mad, but Yun Xiao turned to her, earnestly cutting in, "I won¡¯t go to the Minor Sigil Hall. I¡¯ll stay here in the Rune Lake until it¡¯s almost time to battle. Wait for me here."

    "Are you sure?" Nine Kites asked, incredulous.

    "Sure."

    "Alright then."

    In Nine Kites''s eyes, Yun Xiao had always been odd, and she had little interest in meddling, only warning, "Just don¡¯t drink theke water."

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Taisui Sagel likes to wash his feet there, has been for hundreds of years, every day. Don¡¯t believe me? Go smell it." Nine Kites burst intoughter as she saw Yun Xiao¡¯s face twist in disgust.

    "I¡¯ll endure!"

    Without another word, in front of Nine Kites, Yun Xiao leapt from the bridge, plunging into the middle of the Rune Lake. As he entered, the colorful waters stirred, sending ripples of shimmering light across the surface.

    For a moment, the Rune Lake transformed into a colorful sea of watery flowers, in which the handsome young man bathed, his skin aglow under the radiant light, truly without parallel in all the world.

    "It''s beautiful..." Nine Kites murmured these words, her mind swirling in confusion. The faces of Yun Xiao, An Yao, and Prince Zhen shifted in her thoughts¡ªwhat had been a simple hierarchy between An Yao and Prince Zhen was now jumbled by Yun Xiao''s intrusion.

    Nine Kites leaned on the bridge railing, resting her chin on her hands, utterly captivated.

    "There must be some sorcery in this world designed to bewitch a woman''s heart, a strategy to conquer her affections..." Yun Xiao nced up at the bewildered Nine Kites. "Such a thing is hardly honorable."

    "I think it''s quite nice!" Red Moon chimed in weakly.

    "Get lost."

    Yun Xiao knew what this little ck beast was after!

    "Attraction should be mutual, the culmination of genuine feelings, not some trick of the soul to brainwash ady."

    "Please, you''re handsome, so girls naturally flock to you. Shouldn''t the less fortunate have their tricks?" Blue Star curled his lips.

    "Nope, it''s still downright disgusting!"

    Yun Xiao might have his opinions. But this was the problem of the Sixth Prince, and it had nothing to do with him just yet. His focus remained on the water-like Runes in theke before him.

    These Runes, though wed and discarded, had preserved well in the Rune Lake, and due to their sheer volume, had undergone curious transformations.

    "For the Prison Warden Sigil, these are like the remains of destroyed Life Sigils, broken and imperfect, yet they are the best nourishment for it!"

    The Prison Warden Sigil and the Heaven Burial Sword Soul had a unique ability to absorb the essence of these castoffs. Be it Runes or Sword Auras, even if deemed worthless, these divine artifacts could extract their essence.

    Even if the yield was low, the sheer volume of the Rune Lake promised much more efficiency than Yun Xiao crafting Runes from scratch.

    "Let''s try this..." Yun Xiao slowly sank deeper into theke, took a deep breath, and called forth the Prison Warden Sigil from his brow.

    This violet sigil, with its nine dragons opening nine pairs of eyes, beheld the sea of Runes before it¡ªlike a wolf among sheep. Or like Yun Xiao in a wine cer...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "The Taisui Sagel likes to wash his feet there, has been for hundreds of years, every day. Don¡¯t believe me? Go smell it." Nine Kites burst intoughter as she saw Yun Xiao¡¯s face twist in disgust.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 627: 22!

    Chapter 627: 22!

    "When you discard it as trash, I treasure it as a jewel."

    Yun Xiao watched with a faint smile as the nine-headed dragon began to open its draconic maw, devouring the watery Runes swirling around it.

    Those Runes, once swallowed, were meticulously arranged within the Prison Warden Sigil, forming new, smaller arrays that melded into the dragon''s body, bing part of its scales. Each scale held an array!e

    "The potential of these Runes is truly boundless," Yun Xiao mused. "Their utility far surpasses the mere destructive power of the Sword Soul and Sword Aura."

    The celestial formations and flying talismans were merely offshoots of the Inscription Dao.

    With a deep hum, the dragon elerated its efforts, voraciously consuming and transforming the Runes, discarding over ny percent of each as waste. Still, even retaining merely ten percent, when amassed in the Rune Lake, amounted to a staggering figure.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Soon, a colorful vortex appeared over the Rune Lake, like a blossoming flower made of water, drawing the gaze of several Jiangshi children.

    "How beautiful," one remarked.

    "Indeed," another agreed, nodding."Let''s continue refining talismans."

    "Alright."

    They did not interfere, allowing Yun Xiao to breathe a sigh of relief.

    The number of Runes on his Life Sigil grew exponentially, rapidly approaching the critical count of 10,000,000. Just as Yun Xiao worried he might need a Sigil Suppression Gate, he saw those 10,000,000 Runes mimic the Rune Prison beside him,pressing and transforming swiftly into a new, tiny world of Runes!

    "Two Rune Prisons now."

    With this auspicious start, the proliferation of Rune Prisons was merely a matter of time.

    "Even if the Rune Lake is made up of unwanted Runes, I''m still an uninvited guest. The master of this ce will still be displeased or even angry," Yun Xiao said.

    "So?" Blue Star asked.

    "We have to hurry," Yun Xiao replied, "and aim to clean it all in one go, without even charging for the cleanup."

    "Heh," Blue Star chuckled, aware that this young one was driven by greed, wrath, and foolishness¡ªwith greed leading the way.

    "He might not be a good man, but he''s not entirely bad either," Blue Star reflected, knowing such distinctions held little meaning for him. He was merely following Yun Xiao''s life and offering his musings.

    On the white hade bridge above, Nine Kites had already noticed the changes in the Rune Lake.

    "Seems theke has cleared up a bit? This kid isn''t down there guzzling the wash water, is he?"

    She toyed with the idea of descending for a closer look, but the thought of the Taisui Sage''s footbath deterred her. "Let him be. When the timees, I''ll drag him back myself."

    Nine Kites found a pavilion to continue her meditation, no longer concerned with the affairs below.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After a while, three figures descended from the sky and arrived in front of the Taisui Sigil Pce.

    Leading them was an ancient Immortal, his hair and beard snow-white, his body stooped. He rode a celestial crane, his face rosy and cheerful, radiating a carefree and affable aura.

    This elder was the master of the Taisui Sigil Pce, known as the Taisui Sage himself.

    Behind him were two others. One was Zhao Yuanbao, always smiling, dressed in fine celestial robes.

    The other was also a figure of no small significance! A tall, middle-aged man in a long robe of gold and ck, his eyes zing like torches, his presencemanding as he strode with the might of a dragon and the grace of a tiger.

    Around him swirled a mist of immortality, a crown of dragons and tigers atop his head, his naturally inverted eyebrows giving him an aura of authority without anger.

    "Sovereign Zhao, please," the Taisui Sage said, dismounting from his crane.

    "You''re too courteous," the man replied. He was the head of the Imperial Treasury, Zhao Xuantan known as the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    Zhao Yuanbao was his son.

    Uponnding, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign treated the Taisui Sage with great deference, respectfully saying, "As the next round approaches, I came to request a Rune Heart for my son. Your generosity, Taisui Sage, puts me to shame."

    The Taisui Sage responded, "You tirelessly manage the myriad affairs of the Celestial Court. Your dedication serves as an example for us aged ones. There is no ce for shame here. Please,e in."

    With politeughter, they entered the Taisui Sigil Pce.

    Pointing ahead, the Taisui Sage mentioned, "That Sigil Heart, I have hidden it within the Rune Lake. It has been nurtured day and night and should now be ripe."

    "Your wisdom is profound, Taisui Sagel!" the Dragon Tiger Sovereign replied.

    "With a Rune Heart, the integration of my 12 Rune Prisons will be enhanced, significantly boosting mybat strength in the short term." Zhao Yuanbao, following along, felt a burning impatience in his heart.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Within the Rune Lake, unbeknownst to him, the water around Yun Xiao had cleared.

    "Not much time left now," Yun Xiao murmured, opening his eyes to gaze at the Prison Warden Sigil floating on the rippling waters, a smile ying at his lips.

    "Fortunately, the efficiency is high, and the entireke is nearly purified!"

    On the Prison Warden Sigil, 22 Rune Prisons had formed, each like its own world, lending immense weight and grandeur to the sigil.

    The transformation from 1 to 22 was monumental, to say the least.

    Yun Xiao had hoped to push a bit further, perhaps to forge one additional Rune Prison, but he hadn''t expected such a substantial gain.

    "What is this?"

    After Yun Xiao absorbed thest of the watery Runes, a pearl-like white jade sphere floated before him, pulsing like a heart andposed entirely of Runes.

    "A Rune Heart, vital for integrating Rune Prisons, ensuring a seamless bond with your Life Sigil. With your sudden surge in Rune Prisons, it''s crucial," Blue Star exined.

    "Consider it mine." Yun Xiao reached out and pressed the Rune Heart into his Prison Warden Sigil. The Runes dissolved, weaving together like thousands of threads, binding the Rune Prisons and Life Sigil into one.

    And so, the newly empowered Prison Warden Sigil''s short-term lethality would undoubtedly surpass that of the four Sword Prisons of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    "Done, let''s go." Yun Xiao stood up, ready to leave.

    Just then, the Taisui Sage, Dragon Tiger Sovereign, and Zhao Yuanbao appeared on top of clouds, their eyes catching Nine Kites meditating in the pavilion.

    "Little Nine, what brings you here? The Sixth Prince is still at the fighting tform." The Taisui Sage chuckled, slightly surprised.

    "Huh?!" Nine Kites jumped, her face tensing.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ncing back at the white hade bridge, she stammered nervously, "After losing, I felt a bit troubled and came here for some peace and quiet."

    "It''s alright." The Taisui Sage smiled, then pointed behind her. "Is there someone in the Rune Lake?"

    Nine Kites, realizing she couldn''t hide the truth, especially with others present, reluctantly admitted, "It''s Lu Yao from the Thunder Department. I thought he might need a break from the pressure... He slipped and fell into the Rune Lake. I was just about to fish him out!"

    In her mind, since Lu Yao hadn''t taken anything and was merely soaking in theke, it wasn''t a big deal, and the Taisui Sage likely wouldn''t mind.

    She ran up the white hade bridge, about to call for Yun Xiao, when she looked down and froze.

    The Rune Lake was crystal clear!

    In the clear, emerald waters, a young man slowly rose from the depths!

    "Could someone have stolen the Rune Heart?!" Zhao Yuanbao suddenly called out, his voice tinged with suspicion.

    The Taisui Sage and Dragon Tiger Sovereign stepped forward, peering into theke, their expressions most intrigued.

    Nine Kites felt a sinking feeling. "It''s over..."

 Chapter 628: One Mountain Cannot Hold Two Tigers!

    Chapter 628: One Mountain Cannot Hold Two Tigers!

    "Stop there, you thief!"

    Yun Xiao was about to climb ashore when a thunderous roar shook the sky above, stirring the entireke into a frenzy of sshing water.

    "Someone''sing."

    His heart did not waver; steadying his spirit, he leaped from the clear waters of the Rune Lake and returned to the side of Nine Kites.

    With a swift nce, Yun Xiao already had a measure of the identities of the three neers.

    Among them was the Dragon Tiger Sovereign, the cherished younger brother of Empress Zhao, and a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court. He wielded immense resources in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, naturally cing him in high esteem.

    And there was the Taisui Sage, revered as a master to imperial princes and a man of profound respect and honor.

    However, when the Taisui Sage saw the purifiedke, his mustache bristled in anger as he pointed at Yun Xiao and barked, "Where is the Rune Heart? Bring it forth!"

    Indeed, he didn''t care about the Runes absorbed by Yun Xiao, focusing solely on the Rune Heart."The Rune Heart?" Nine Kites blinked, first defending Yun Xiao, "We haven¡¯t seen it."

    Yet Yun Xiao confessed inly, "When I was in the water, I indeed saw a Rune Heart. It darted right into my Life Sigil, unstoppable."

    Hearing this, the Taisui Sage''s eyes shed with rage, and he rolled up his sleeves, ready to discipline Yun Xiao.

    "You!" Nine Kites was beside herself with anger, quickly stepping in front of Yun Xiao, pleading coyly, "Please calm your fury, it¡¯s all a misunderstanding..."

    "A misunderstanding? He stole the Rune Heart, and you are not meless!" the Taisui Sage said sternly.

    Had she not been the fianc¨¦e of the Sixth Prince, the Taisui Sage might have already throttled Yun Xiao.

    Understanding these social intricacies, Yun Xiao innocently continued, "I never intended to take the Rune Heart. I am truly ashamed. Now that the Rune Heart has merged, I can only seek to repay you after the Immortal Tournament is over, hoping for a chance to make amends."

    "Exactly, he''ll repay you! And... and he also cleaned your Rune Lake, look how clear it is now," Nine Kites quickly changed the subject.

    "It''s not about repayment!"

    Regardless of whether Yun Xiao could repay, the issue was the Rune Heart, which the Taisui Sage had already promised to Zhao Yuanbao.

    The Taisui Sage looked towards the Dragon Tiger Sovereign and Zhao Yuanbao, especially Zhao Yuanbao, who might soon be Yun Xiao¡¯s directpetitor.

    He''d essentially promised someone a gift only to p them in the face.

    How furious must Zhao Yuanbao feel right now?

    In the deathly quiet atmosphere that followed themotion, Zhao Yuanbao, having witnessed the entire affair, suddenly cracked a smile and said to the Taisui Sage, "If so, it seems the Rune Heart and I were not fated. Since Lu Yao has inadvertently merged with it, it must be his destiny. I hope you won''t hold him ountable."

    "..." The Taisui Sage paused slightly, taken aback. He had intended to give away the Rune Heart all along, and his anger was more about how to exin the situation to the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    Zhao Yuanbao''s magnanimity was unexpected.

    "Sovereign Zhao," the Taisui Sage turned to the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    "Fate is a creature of chance, not to be forced," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign replied.

    With that, the Taisui Sage nced sharply at Nine Kites, "Aren''t you going to thank him with yourpanion?"

    Nine Kites and Yun Xiao, expecting a difficult resolution, were surprised by Zhao Yuanbao''sck of concern.

    Without waiting for Nine Kites, Yun Xiao bowed deeply and said, "Thank you, Brother Zhao, for your generous spirit."

    Zhao Yuanbao responded with a smile, "Treasures are measurable, but goodwill is boundless. The path of the Immortals is vast, and all under heaven are friends. Should the opportunity arise, I would be honored to discuss the mysteries of eternal life with Brother Lu."

    Previously at the Divine Peach Banquet, Zhao Yuanbao hadn''t spoken to him, but now, following Yun Xiao''s victory in the first round, the young master of the Imperial Treasury seemed to have changed his stance.

    "It would be my honor!" Yun Xiao bowed again.

    After he spoke, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign said, "The second round is about to begin. Hurry back, do not let the hour pass and miss your chance."

    "Yes, I''ll take him back immediately!" Nine Kites, fearing any reversal of their good fortune which might see Yun Xiao skinned alive, quickly made their exit.

    "We should also return," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign said as he took his leave.

    "Wait for me to nurture two more Rune Hearts, and I will personally deliver them to you. Don''t refuse, it''s the least I can do," said the Taisui Sage.

    The Dragon Tiger Sovereign bowed. "Then I am in your debt."

    "Think nothing of it!"

    After the two had departed, the Taisui Sage was left alone, his gaze falling on the Rune Lake, puzzled.

    "How did this youngster clean all those spent Runes from theke so thoroughly, leaving not a trace?"

    Even for him, such a task would be monumental, given that disposing of the spent Runes was problematic, likely to disrupt the structure of the celestial formations.

    "This Lu Yao has secrets... Who really stands behind him?" The Taisui Sage''s gaze was deep and thoughtful.

    A Rune Heart was not cheap, but neither was it supremely valuable; he could afford the loss.

    From the beginning, he was never going to kill a contestant in the Immortal Tournament over a Rune Heart. Empress Zhao was still watching the fighting! So, it was only a scare, nothing serious.

    "Regardless, Sovereign Zhao seems to be taking a keen interest in this young man. It wouldn¡¯t hurt to owe him a favor," the Taisui Sage mused as he settled by the edge of the Rune Lake. Rolling up his trouser legs, he stretched out his legs, squinted his eyes, and chuckled, "With water this clean, it¡¯d be a shame not to wash my feet."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On the road, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign led the way on his cloud, with Zhao Yuanbao following slightly behind, head bowed.

    "You''re not one to part with things easily, yet today you''re so generous, pleading for a rival who took your treasure," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign said, hands sped behind his back, his tone even.

    Zhao Yuanbao replied respectfully, "Father, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. This Lu Yao is remarkably strong, not an ordinary contender."

    "Indeed, if it weren¡¯t for An Yao, he would be the dark horse of this tournament." The Dragon Tiger Sovereign nced back at Zhao Yuanbao. "But what if the rumors are true, that he is Lu Fan''s son?"

    "Even if he were the son of the Chaos Sovereign, he would still be my friend," Zhao Yuanbao stated firmly.

    "The reason?"

    "A sudden appearance of a biological son and a disciple raised like his own son¡ªthey''re unlikely to get along well. As the saying goes, one mountain cannot hold two tigers. If two tigers fight, one will be injured, the other might die," Zhao Yuanbao exined.

    "That reasoning holds water, but it''s all based on your spection, with no evidence. You also know nothing about Lu Yao. Moreover, it''s unclear whether Nine Kites¡¯ support for him as the hope of the Thunder Department is her own wish or that of the Nine Thunders Sovereign," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign remarked.

    "Please enlighten me, father," Zhao Yuanbao bowed.

    "I''m also unsure; the boy is an enigma, I need to consult with the Thunder King."

    Having said this, the Sovereign released a tiger-shaped talisman from his hand, which quickly vanished into the clouds of the Celestial Court.

    "With the head of the Thunder Department absent from the Immortal Tournament, I hope the Emperor rifies his intentions."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the fighting tform, Yun Xiao and Nine Kites returned discreetly.

    In that single hour, most of the high-ranking Immortals hadn''t even left. They sat above on the noble clouds, sipping tea and discussing the ways of the universe with a grace that seemed to lift them beyond the dust of the world.

    In the round of 16, the eight talented Arbiters who had been eliminated had mostly retreated to the fringes, leaving the center stage of the Immortal Tournament to the superior eight.

    "I''ve done what I could for you. Now it''s your turn to shine. All of the Immortals of the Thunder Department are watching," Nine Kites took a deep breath and spoke earnestly into Yun Xiao¡¯s ear.

    "From tens of thousands of miles away, how can they see?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Thunder Immortal Formation can project the scenes of the Immortal Tournament. There''s about a half-hour dy, but it''s still faster than sending messages." Nine Kites sighed, looking down.

    "So, your bad start, the whole Thunder Department knows about it? How disappointing is that?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Shut up!" Nine Kites red at him.

    She was already discouraged enough, why sprinkle salt on her wounds?

    Her own defeat...

    Her thoughts drifted to a devil-may-care young man in ck.

    As if in a trance, she looked across the fighting tform to the opposite side where a lone young man in ck stood. He had no friends around him, yet he seemed content, a sign of immense inner strength and confidence. The slight smile on his lips was so bright and natural, it was heart-stirringly...n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Is he more handsome, or am I?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked, out of the blue.

    Without thinking, Nine Kites responded, "In this world, a man''s demeanor matters more than his looks."

    "Just some slouching ruffian, and you think his demeanor is better than mine?" Yun Xiaoughed.

    Nine Kites rolled her eyes and said, "Just be quiet. Jealousy won¡¯t close the gap between your characters¡¯ charm."

    "Point taken." Yun Xiao just gave her a thumbs up in response.

    He then turned to Yun Alter beside him and asked, "Who is more beautiful, me or An Yao?"

    Yun Alter scoffed, "Even the dung you pull is prettier than him."

    Upon hearing this, Nine Kites''s face darkened immediately.

    "She really has been bewitched," Yun Xiao couldn''t help but remark.

    As time passed, the atmosphere grew more intense. Yun Yin and Gu Suwan visited a few times, repeatedly advising and analyzing opponents for Yun Xiao and Yun Alter.

    It was clear, with Nine Kites out of thepetition, the pressure on them was immense.

    When the hour arrived, Empress Zhao publicly drew the white jade peaches again.

    There were eight left in the basin.

    The Longevity Immortal took the first two jade slips without introduction and simply called out the names.

    "An Yao, Yun Xiao, to battle."

    Hearing his name, Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow and thought, "Straight to the grand finale, huh?"

    He stepped toward the fighting tform. Suddenly, a jade-like hand caught him, asking wordlessly, "What are you doing?"

    "Going out to..." Yun Xiao hadn¡¯t finished speaking when he saw Yun Alter beside him, his face solemn, stepping up to the tform. He then realized that he wasn''t the one called to fight.

    Although Yun Xiao had been using the name Lu Yao for a long time, his actual name had been ingrained in him for 16 years.

    "Going out to do what?" Nine Kites asked.

    "Just paying respects," Yun Xiao replied lightly.

    Nine Kites had no more words for him. On the fighting tform, whether it was one of the geniuses of the Thunder Department or the young man in ck, both were matters of concern to her.

    "Even if Yun Xiao had ten arms, he wouldn¡¯t be a match for An Yao..."

    For some reason, Nine Kites felt no sadness at this conclusion; it just seemed like a fact. An Yao was simply that strong, and there was no shame in losing to him...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 629: Command the Sun and Moon to Renew the Heavens!

    Chapter 629: Command the Sun and Moon to Renew the Heavens!

    On the fighting tform, An Yao stood with a light smile, his face calm and untroubled. Opposite him, Yun Alter''s eyes zed with the fury of thunder, his gaze locked fiercely on his opponent.

    "Even if it costs me my life here, you shall not take the crown of the Thunder Department from me!" Yun Alter dered sharply, his body swirling with thousands of electric serpents that coalesced into a shimmering violet Life Sigil.

    Yun Alter possessed eight Rune Prisons, surpassing even Jiang Taiping, who was about to be promoted to a Rank 4 Thunder Emissary.

    "Then, I suppose your life is the price you''ll pay," An Yao replied softly with a serene smile. With a mere flick of his finger, a tiny ck lotus, no bigger than a fingertip, shed through the air and struck Yun Alter''s Life Sigil.

    It was a simple, effortless collision.

    "AAGHHH!" Yun Alter''s eyes widened suddenly, his face turning deathly pale.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>His Life Sigil disintegrated, turning into ck ash that poured into his eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. In an instant, copious amounts of ck blood flowed from every orifice.

    "An Yao, you..." Yun Alter''s voice was hoarse as he fell backward, crashing onto the dueling tform with a thunderous sound, motionless.

    His breath faded swiftly. He was dead!This marked the first death after the selections of the Immortal Tournament!

    While Yun Xiao hadn''t killed Jian Chi, An Yao had effortlessly in the son of the Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General. Perhaps it was because Jian Chi''s father was the Rank 1 Northstar Sword Devil, wielding greater power.

    Of course, it could also be that An Yao''s killing prowess was superior.

    "Xiao''er!"

    A sh of lightning streaked across the sky as Yun Yin descended, trembling as he cradled his son. His eyes, thunderous and roaring, fixed An Yao with a deadly re.

    "Having won, was there a need to kill?" Yun Yin''s voice boomed like thunder, barely concealing the immense killing intent within.

    An Yao responded with a smirk, "In the Immortal Tournament, swords and magic are blind, and there is no rule against killing. Should misfortune befall someone, they can only me their inadequate skills. Before the heart of the Celestial Court, what right does a mere Rank 2 Heavenly Officer have to roar in the presence of the assembled Immortals?"

    Hearing this, Yun Yin''s mind throbbed, his eyes nearly brimming with murderous intent. Yet, he had friends in the Celestial Court who, through whispered entreaties, urged him to restrain himself.

    Indeed, Yun Yin had no choice but to endure. Having controlled the Thunder Department for many years, he would not lose hisposure over trivial matters, but today was an exception.

    In the end, Yun Yin held back his rage. Turning to An Yao with a chilly tone, he conceded, "Indeed, you are a true disciple of Sovereign Lu. Born to act without restraint, I must admire that."

    With that, Yun Yin cradled his son''s body and descended from the fighting tform. His expression seemed to age many years in those moments.

    "Keep yourints to yourself, after all, there are bigger grievances yet toe," An Yao said, then swept his gaze across Gu Zhenshi, Man Huo, and the other young talents of the Thunder Department. Shaking his head, he muttered under his breath, "Utterly useless, not a single one can fight."

    His actions were bound to cause a storm of rage among the Thunder Department and the masses.

    But clearly, An Yao didn''t care at all. As he stepped down from the tform, he gave Nine Kites a smile, as if to say, "I might be brutal to your Thunder Department, but towards you, I''m still gentle..."

    At that moment, Nine Kites clenched her fists, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.

    She was filled with hate, yet not entirely. Why did she feel this mix of love and hate? She was more confused than anyone.

    On one hand, deep within her soul, this was a battle for the dignity of the entire Thunder Department.

    On the other hand, she found herself wishing An Yao would rise to dominate the world.

    Wouldn''t it be wonderful if he were a member of the Thunder Department?

    Thinking this, Nine Kites sighed deeply, her mind devoid of any memory of her friend Yun Alter''s dead face.

    Yun Xiao gave her a nce, sighing internally as well.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Bewitched by this soul magic, like a moth to a me, ready to betray anything."

    Helping Yun Xiao was thest vestige of reason in Nine Kites'' mind. It was the lifeline she clung to as she drowned! If she were to forsake even Yun Xiao, it would mean she was thoroughly ensnared.

    And now, with one person dead, the other high-ranking Immortals, save for Yun Yin, showed little reaction.

    As if nothing had happened, the quarter finals continued!

    At that moment, An Yao unexpectedly approached where Yun Xiao and Nine Kites were.

    Yun Xiao thought An Yao wasing for Nine Kites, but upon his arrival, he spoke softly to her, "I wish to have a word with Brother Lu."

    "Uh huh." Nine Kites nodded obediently, her eyes glistening as she stepped aside.

    The favored disciple and rumored son of Sovereign Lu finally met, surely attracting the attention of many. Yet, most Immortals merely watched out of the corner of their eyes.

    Up close, Yun Xiao found An Yao''s smile warm and his demeanor friendly, devoid of any malice, as refreshing as a spring breeze.

    Yun Xiao tensed up, cursing internally. "Just don''t use any soul magic on me."

    It wasn''t that he was scared, he just found it distasteful, being a man himself!

    "Lu Yao!" An Yao suddenly burst into a smile, opening his arms wide and swaying as he approached, feigning familiarity before embracing Yun Xiao tightly and thumping his back a few times.

    This gesture instantly tightened many onlookers'' chests. It likely signified that Lu Yao was aligned with the Chaos Sovereign!

    "Something on your mind?" Yun Xiao asked, his face betraying nothing.

    "I''ve heard my master speak of you¡ªa perfect example of a Sword Immortal. Your appearance fulfills my perfect vision of a heroic protagonist," An Yao remarked with a wistful smile.

    "Why did the Chaos Sovereign mention me?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "That''s something you''d have to ask him yourself," An Yao replied.

    "Alright, I''ll ask him when I get the chance," Yun Xiao said.

    "Don''t wait for a chance," An Yao hooked Yun Xiao''s shoulder familiarly. Being shorter made the gesture somewhat awkward, but it didn''t stop him from leaning in close to whisper, "My master said he¡¯s waiting for you at Suite 95 in the Divine Heavenly Pavilion. You can visit him anytime."

    "Really?" Yun Xiao asked earnestly.

    He thought the Chaos Sovereign had been leaving him hanging, but perhaps he just wanted a private meeting first? And he was right there in the Divine Heavenly Pavilion where Yun Xiao was staying?

    "If I lie, my master would y me alive," An Yao said with a sheepish grin.

    "Alright, I''ll visit him after this match. Suite 95, right?" Yun Xiao confirmed.

    "Yes, 95, not 69, don¡¯t get it mixed up," An Yao chuckled.

    "Being the supreme 95, how could one obsess over 69?" Yun Xiao also cracked a smile.

    "Oh?" An Yao appeared surprised but smiled warmly, "I didn¡¯t expect it¡ªyou look like this but you¡¯re just as worldly. It¡¯s truly fortunate to find arade with simr ideals in this hypocritical and rigid Celestial Court."

    "Comrades in ideals?" Yun Xiao pursed his lips, asking meaningfully, "May I ask, An Yao, what exactly are our shared ideals and paths?"

    An Yao looked deeply at him and suddenly pointed to the sky, sighing softly, "Brother, look up at the sky. What do you see?"

    "The sky?" Yun Xiao looked up, where celestial mists swirled and beyond them zed the fires of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, "The celestial miasma blinds us; we cannot see beyond."

    "Yes, the stars were once brilliant, but as the path of immortality prospers, the stars fade. Who knows when the sky will be devoid of starlight?" An Yao finished, shaking his head with a wry smile. "Life is full of hardships, with false Immortals ruling the heavens. In front of others, they appear noble, but behind, they devour and drink blood."

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao felt a fire in his throat. He looked intently at An Yao and asked, "Then, what should a true man do?"

    An Yao smiled profoundly, his spirit rising as he dered¡ª

    "Thunderp, this earth-shaking maul! Violet Lightning, this true me of the arcane! A sword suspended from the heavens shakes the world! To y Immortals and y gods, I cultivate into a devil. Sword drawn, I battle through torrents of blood. Today, the burden of justice rests on my shoulders, and I dare tomand the sun and moon to renew the heavens!"

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

 Chapter 630: Supreme Eternal Thunder Execution!

    Chapter 630: Supreme Eternal Thunder Execution!

    An Yao had just finished his verse when the fox demon Wuqing defeated her opponent and broke into the semifinals of the Immortal Tournament.

    Reaching the semifinals offered a three in four chance to achieve the title of champion, second ce, or third in the Celestial Court!

    An Yao and Wuqing had already secured two of those spots!

    Time flew swiftly, and the Immortal Tournament neared its climax, arriving at its most thrilling moment!

    Who would seize thest two spots in the semifinals?

    The announcement was imminent!

    "Lu Yao, Zhao Yuanbao, to battle!"

    The Longevity Immortal took two jade slips from the hands of Empress Zhao and called out their names.

    This pairing sparked a murmur of regret around the fighting tform.Clearly, after the early eliminations of Jian Chi and Nine Kites, the crowd believed it more fitting for both Lu Yao and Zhao Yuanbao to advance together rather than just one.

    Yet, the rules of the Immortal Tournament were ancient and unyielding. Once matched, they had to fight; and if defeated, they had to ept their fate!

    In the gaze of the masses, Yun Xiao stepped onto the fighting tform with the young master of the Imperial Treasury.

    "Empress Zhao sending her nephew to me in front of everyone is clearly to show that she''s not manipting the fight," Yun Xiao mused.

    Back at the Taisui Sigil Pce, Zhao Yuanbao had helped Yun Xiao, and now they met again on the tform, neither harboring any hostility.

    Zhao Yuanbao bowed with a smile, saying, "The path of immortality is vast, and to meet here is fate. Brother Lu''s divine demeanor is indeed my honor."

    Yun Xiao nodded and smiled back. "Brother Zhao, please."

    The Thunder Department and the Imperial Treasury had always been on good terms, and this pairing was perhaps the most harmonious yet in the contest.

    In the eyes of the audience, Yun Xiao appeared more like a secret super elite cultivated by the Thunder Department, sharing their breath and glory.

    Was he truly one of the Thunder Department or part of the Great Dao Celestial Army?

    The Immortals waited for this answer!

    Before the answer was revealed, none grew too close to Yun Xiao, nor too distant.

    "If Lu Yao can consecutively surpass divine talents like Jian Chi and Zhao Yuanbao, he indeed has the credentials to challenge An Yao for supremacy."

    ¡°Look!¡± the young man eximed.

    The two young men did not keep the onlookers waiting long. Zhao Yuanbao had barely finished speaking when he leapt into the air!

    He was an Inscription Cultivator.

    A golden radiance enveloped him, converging at the center of his forehead into a Life Sigil shaped like a golden ingot. Though small, it bore the immense weight of a vast golden mountain, distorting the space around it.

    Twelve golden Rune Prisons encircled the Golden Ingot Sigil, each a small world onto itself, like a mobile celestial array.

    The quality of this Life Sigil was unmistakably in the Divine Heaven grade.

    Possessing a Life Sigil of such superior quality, surpassing even the Dao Heaven grade, earned him the title of a divine prodigy.

    After all, the quality of a Life Sigil represented potential and future, not the present. The greater the talent, the higher the quality¡ªfar surpassing any celestial technique they might employ.

    In terms of talent, Zhao Yuanbao was a match for Jian Chi, who possessed Twin Sword Souls.

    As the young master of the Imperial Treasury, his strength naturallyy in celestial treasures.

    Bathed in the light of the Golden Ingot Sigil, Zhao Yuanbaoughed and called out, ¡°Don¡¯t me me for overwhelming you with numbers.¡±

    ¡°Noints here. Give me all you''ve got!¡± Yun Xiao smirked.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In that moment, Zhao Yuanbao consecutively deployed six celestial treasures, each ringing out with a deafening roar as they surrounded him, their presence earth-shattering.

    Each treasure was almost a match for the Violet Lightning Weapons Chart of Nine Kites!

    Although the Violet Lightning Weapons Chart derived nine major weapons, it was but a single celestial treasure, whereas Zhao Yuanbao wielded six.

    If Yun Xiao was right, all six were Dao Heaven grade celestial treasures!

    Each of these six, a cauldron, a fan, a chain, a seal, a bell, and a drum, shimmered in golden light. Together with the Golden Ingot Sigil at their core, they formed a dazzling golden battlefield.

    A nce revealed a world saturated with the essence of wealth...

    This was what Zhao Yuanbao meant by overwhelming Yun Xiao with numbers.

    The path of an Inscription Cultivator was paved with gold.

    As the main branch of the Imperial Treasury, the Zhao Family controlled the vast resources of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    Zhao Yuanbo was not merely born with a golden spoon. He was a true elite of celestial heritage. He was carefully nurtured since childhood to surpass his peers across the heavens.

    ¡°Brother Lu, draw your sword!¡± Zhao Yuanbao,manding the six celestial treasures, bore down like a mountain of gold, his voice resonant as shing bells and drums.

    ¡°Sorry, but I don''t n to draw my sword in this battle," Yun Xiao said, smiling lightly against Zhao Yuanbao''s golden brilliance.

    "Oh?" Zhao Yuanbao raised an eyebrow and said, "I heard you have a Life Sigil too? It seems far inferior to your Sword Soul..."

    Suddenly, a nine headed violet dragon wrapped in dense lightning appeared at the center of Yun Xiao''s forehead. It let out a deafening roar that drowned out the sh of Zhao Yuanbao''s six celestial treasures!

    With a thunderous roar, the Prison Warden Sigil shook in the air, bursts of violet lightning shing, creating a tempest of lightning that swept across the fighting tform.

    Above the Life Sigil, 22 Sacred Dragon Rune Prisons emerged, unfolding like 22 celestial formations.

    "Huh?!"

    The Immortals above and Zhao Yuanbao before Yun Xiao stared wide-eyed, utterly incredulous at the sight before them.

    Such arge number of Rune Prisons was only possible for the top Heavenly Officers of the Celestial Court!

    Before the age of 30 years, surpassing 15 Sword or Rune Prisons was already unparalleled in the world!

    "What in the world..."

    The most shocked among them were two women.

    The first was Gu Suwan, who had brought Yun Xiao to form his first Rune Prison. The second was Nine Kites, who had taken him to the Taisui Sigil Pce.

    Standing together, their expressions mirrored each other perfectly as their mouths gaped open, eachrge enough to fit two eggs.

    Even their gestures of rubbing their eyes in disbelief were in perfect sync!

    Besides them, astonished murmurs came from the Immortals above, clearly finding it hard to believe.

    Four Sword Prisons might be reasonable, but 22 Rune Prisons?

    "Does this have something to do with you?" the Dragon Tiger Sovereign asked, ncing at the Taisui Sage beside him.

    "How could it? I just met the boy today," the Taisui Sage replied, then suddenly recalling his pristine Rune Lake, his eyes widened, his mouth agape as if to swallow eggs whole.

    "Impossible, impossible..." The Taisui Sage shook his head vigorously, denying his own thoughts.

    Yet, the reality before everyone could not be altered!

    Yun Xiao''s Rune Prisons were not only numerous but also demonstrated formidable power in an instant.

    "Break!" Zhao Yuanbao was shocked but not immobilized by fear; he quickly regrouped, utilizing his Golden Ingot Sigil tomand his six celestial treasures. They attacked Yun Xiao from six directions¡ªfront, back, left, right, above, and below!

    A cauldron, a fan, a chain, a seal, a bell, and a drum¡ªall weapons of suppression, acted in unison like a rolling barrage to restrict Yun Xiao''s movements, their deadly force staggering.

    Any normal adversary, even when bound by golden chains, would dodge to avoid the brunt of the attack.

    But Yun Xiao did not. As the celestial treasures bore down, he hovered in the air, transforming his Life Sigil into an umbre with nine dragon heads as its ribs.

    The youth stood suspended, umbre in hand, unfazed.

    As the golden tide crashed towards him, he casually flicked the umbre forward to shield himself.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Under the protection of the 22 Rune Prisons, Zhao Yuanbao¡¯s six celestial treasures were repelled and sent flying away!

    None of the six waves of attacks could even ruffle a hair on Yun Xiao.

    This violet Runic Umbre, seemingly as flimsy as a paper umbre at a nce, became an impregnable wall in Zhao Yuanbao''s eyes.

    "Damn it!" Zhao Yuanbao staggered, his blood boiling, bewildered by the turn of events.

    "My turn now."

    Even more daunting was that after deflecting the attack, Yun Xiao absorbed the umbre back into his body. Immediately, countless violet dragon patterns appeared on him, making him appear both demonic and imperious, like a true dragon!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Empowered by the Dao Dragon form, Yun Xiao suddenly ascended, his hair exploding upwards as electrical dragons burst from his body. A deafening peal of thunder echoed through the heavens, and countless bolts of lightning formed a violet dragon around him.

    Under the amplification of the 22 Rune Prisons, a vast celestial formation of thunder, centered on his body, appeared above!

    This was, in essence, a miniaturized version of the Thunder Immortal Formation!

    It stretched across the arena, a curtain between the assembly of Immortals and the fighting tform, obscuring vast territories. Upon it, numerous thunder dragons roared furiously, and the immense visage of the Creator Immortal emerged over this sea of thunder and lightning, fixing its gaze on the stunned Zhao Yuanbao.

    At that moment, Zhao Yuanbao could only recall an old saying, "Why use a cleaver to kill a chicken?"

    Underneath this electric tempest, Gu Suwan numbly recited, "The Ten Great Dao Heaven Arts, the Supreme Eternal Thunder Execution..."

    Indeed, this was a part of the Thunder Immortal Formation, a legendary technique passed down through the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau!

    First came the Judgment of a Thousand Daos, and now this grand disy of the Supreme Eternal Thunder Execution. Gu Suwan felt numb many times over after witnessing this technique unleashed.

    "What is this thing?"

    Her question echoed the bewilderment of many who were overwhelmed.

    How terrifying was this technique?

    Even the Dragon Tiger Sovereign stood up, moved by the spectacle!

    His concern said it all!

    Targeted by the colossal thunderous face, Zhao Yuanbao, as if electrified, raised his hands and shouted, "Stop, I concede!"

    Just as Zhao Yuanbao announced his surrender, the vast ocean of thunder instantly dissipated. All that was left behind was a young man in white, who smoothly retracted the Prison Warden Sigil.

    Yun Xiao courteously bowed. "Thank you for the concession."

    This scene caused the Taisui Sage to p his chair in admiration, eximing, "The difficulty lies not in unleashing the thunder formation, but in controlling it at will. This young man¡¯s mastery of the technique is at its peak. I refuse to believe he hasn¡¯t practiced this Supreme Eternal Thunder Execution for over 500 years!"

    "Truly remarkable," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign murmured as he calmed himself and sat back down.

    Beside him, the Longevity Immortal, upon witnessing the event, suppressed his own shock. He nced once more at the smiling Empress Zhao watching Yun Xiao, and publicly dered, "Lu Yao wins this battle and advances to the semifinals!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 631: Unrivaled Black Lotus!

    Chapter 631: Unrivaled ck Lotus!

    Though the match had ended, many among the Immortals still harbored a heart-throbbing awe.

    Over on the side of the Immortal Sword Court, Jian Chi clenched his fists tightly, gritting his teeth, "See? I told you, it wasn¡¯t me who wascking. It¡¯s Lu Yao, he¡¯s beyond our level. The Thunder Department has truly found a gem this time."

    As Jian Chi spoke, something suddenly came to mind, and he turned abruptly towards the Moon Sword Goddess, "Aunt, have you really severed ties with him as master and disciple?"

    "Yes. It''s done." The Moon Sword Goddess''s expression was icy cold, her emotionsplex.

    "Why don''t you reach out to him, see if things can be mended?" the Sun Sword Goddess suggested. Even someone as stubborn as her suggested reconciliation. She was clearly shaken.

    This proved that beyond one¡¯s background and status, supreme strength and talent could still make others bow their heads in recognition of their short-sightedness.

    "There''s no need," a voice interrupted.

    It was the dark sword shadow, coolly looking at Yun Xiao from afar.

    "Sovereign Lu hasn¡¯t spoken yet. Whether he truly belongs to the Chaos Sovereign or the Nine Thunders Sovereign is yet to be determined. When two tigers vie for the same mountain, it''s best to stand aside and watch.""Father, when will Sovereign Lu speak?" Jian Chi asked.

    "Soon, at least during the Immortal Tournament," the dark sword shadow replied.

    "Understood."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Below the fighting tform, after the fight, which secured Yun Xiao''s ce among the semi-finalists, there was an hour to rest.

    As Yun Xiao descended, he was met by the Immortals of the Thunder Department. Apart from Yun Yin and Yun Alter, everyone else was all there.

    "General Yun has sent a flying message, congratting you on making it to the semi finals. The glory of the Thunder Department is now yours to uphold," Nine Kites said, her voice raspy, her gaze upon Yun Xiao still touched with emotion.

    "Tell him thank you, and I send my condolences," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Will do."

    Nearby, Gu Zhenshi, Man Huo, and their families all looked on at Yun Xiao withplex expressions.

    They knew all the Immortals of the Thunder Department would soon witness the divine might he had just disyed!

    Once ridiculed and mocked, Yun Xiao now stood as the Thunder Department¡¯sst beacon of hope, and even those proud sons of heaven found themselves putting their hopes on him¡­ Their feelings were tangled andplex.

    "Hey, for thest two fights, do you need anything? Any requests, just say them. I¡¯ll do what I can," Nine Kites whispered in his ear after a moment of hesitation.

    In her heart, the glory and dignity of the Thunder Department still held sway.

    "No need," Yun Xiao shook his head, his gaze drifting to An Yao''s distant smile before he said to Nine Kites, "Excuse me for a moment."

    With that, Yun Xiao turned and walked towards An Yao.

    "He''s going to see Sovereign Lu..." Gu Suwan''s heart tightened.

    "Stop him!" Gu Zhenshi and the others said urgently.

    "Stop what?" Nine Kites gave a disdainful nce. "No one can stop him from choosing his path."

    "What do we do then? If Sovereign Lu favors him, even if he actually isn''t, he might as well be the Chaos Sovereign''s son," Man Huomented.

    "It¡¯s fine..." Gu Suwan bit her lip and forced a smile. "Even so, he remains partly ours in the Thunder Department. We still win."

    "..." Gu Zhenshi, Man Huo, and the others looked at her speechless.

    Well, at least a moral victory was still a victory.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Divine Heavenly Pavilion, Suite 95¡­

    Yun Xiao and An Yao walked side by side to this ce, no one else followed behind.

    The suite was very quiet.

    "Go inside, he''s been waiting for you a long time," An Yao said with a smile, patting Yun Xiao on the shoulder. "The organization needs talents like you!"

    Yun Xiao chuckled. He had once fabricated an organization for Cao Shuo, never imagining it actually existed...

    "Though his actions of exploiting women are somewhat sleazy, fortunately, it''s used for a righteous cause."

    At this moment in the Celestial Court, who were enemies and who were allies?

    Yun Xiao felt he had some answers now.

    He adjusted his Arbiter armor and stepped into Suite 95, An Yao lingering at the door.

    Ahead, in a great hall,y dormant a fierce tiger that dominated the Heavenly Pce. Though the doors remained shut, Yun Xiao still felt a tremendous pressure.

    The Celestial Court¡¯s Greatest War God, Lu Fan!

    From the moment the Chaos Sovereign appeared, he loomed like a monstrous beast before Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes.

    "Come in."

    As Yun Xiao arrived in front of the door, Lu Fan''s voice rang out, sounding quite amiable.

    Yun Xiao then pushed the door open.

    Inside the hall, the light was dim, only candles flickered, and all the windows were sealed shut.

    An Yao followed him in, standing by the door, his head slightly bowed.

    Yun Xiao looked up and saw, behind the screen at the far end of the hall, three figures entwined.

    "Demonic miasma?"

    Yun Xiao recognized the smell. It was all too familiar to him. The scent of a fox demon. Sweet, prating, sparking wanderlust...

    Just then, the screen toppled over with the breeze.

    Behind it, in the center of a wooden chair, sat a middle-aged man with disheveled clothes and a beard. His legs were crossed, his face flushed with a drunken red, and his murky eyes carried a hint of a smile as he looked at the iing Yun Xiao.

    He resembled An Yao, yet he was utterly unlike Yun Xiao. The former appeared ordinary, rxed in demeanor, disheveled in dress, and slouching. Thetter seemed ethereal as if from a painting, standing straight, his body aglow.

    Yun Xiao cared little for the Chaos Sovereign''s appearance or demeanor. What struck him as odd, however, was that at this moment, Lu Fan was embracing two women.

    They were both disheveled as well, their faces flushed with inebriation, enticingly beautiful. They had fox ears on their heads, and their fox tails were entwined around Lu Fan''s arms and waist, their eyes seductive to an extreme.

    Two female fox demons, one voluptuous and mature, the other young and pure with desire, both devastatingly beautiful.

    Yun Xiao recognized them! It was the Lunar Mistress and her daughter Wuqing.

    Wuqing, one step ahead into the semifinals, surprised Yun Xiao. This seemingly innocent fox girl was nowfortably nestled in Lu Fan''s arms, a stark contrast to her pure appearance.

    Yun Xiao held no possessive desires toward the two fox women, but he found the scene peculiar, especially since the Lunar Mistress was of high status in the Celestial Court, nearly on par with a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer.

    Moreover, how could the Chaos Sovereign so openly disy this to Yun Xiao, a young man?

    This encounter struck Yun Xiao as strange.

    And for <em>Lu Yao</em>, the son of Lu Bufan, this scene would be even stranger.

    Without much time for Yun Xiao to ponder, Lu Fan stood up, and the two fox women quickly adjusted his robe and attended to him perfectly.

    "We meet again, Lu Yao," Lu Fan said with aforting, amiableugh.

    "Yes, we meet again, Lu Bufan," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Shush." Lu Fan shook his head. "No need for pretense or melodrama. You''re not leisurely or carefree, and I''m quite ordinary."

    His words carried deep significance. He acknowledged Yun Xiao was not Lu Yao, and openly admitted he wasn''t Lu Bufan either.

    So, there should be no drawn-out father-son drama, especially in front of these two fox women¡ªwho might be core members of their organization?

    "Yes." Yun Xiao didn''t argue; he simply nodded crisply.

    "Good, very good." Lu Fan stretchednguidly and strolled up to Yun Xiao. He radiated a terrifying spiritual presence that permeated every pore of Yun Xiao''s being, yet outwardly, he seemed like a genial senior.

    He leaned in close to Yun Xiao, smiling and yfully raising his eyebrows, "Young man, how about wee up with a secret password?"

    "I don''t mind." Yun Xiao nodded.

    Lu Fan smiled, pursed his lips, and slowly spoke, "Change the odd, not the even?"

    Yun Xiao stared nkly for a moment, not replying.

    "At the bridge before the gate, ducks swim below. Quack, quack, quack. Come quick and count them, will you?" Lu Fan asked again.

    Yun Xiao furrowed his brow, replying, "Sovereign Lu, I came to see you for one reason only¡ªabout the incense offering."

    "Incense offerings? Excellent, splendid, heheh..." Lu Fan, hands sped behind his back, gave Yun Xiao a deep look, suddenly sighing long, "Life, truly as lonely as the falling snow."

    Lu Fan shook his head continuously after speaking.

    "Sovereign Lu¡­" Yun Xiao was about to inquire further about his ns.

    "Be careful!!!" A sudden cry of rm from Blue Star jolted him.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes widened!

    There stood Lu Fan, close enough to touch, his gaze shifting instantly into a depth of chilling indifference.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a sudden raise of his hand, he aimed a crushing blow at Yun Xiao¡¯s forehead!

    That palm, heavy as 100,000 mountains with ck lotus petals swirling around, was soul-piercing!

    This was the Celestial Court''s Greatest War God, unleashing his lethal strike from point-nk range!

    In this Great Dao Celestial Realm, no one could escape his sudden, annihting blow unscathed!

    The world seemed to vanish at the moment of his strike, surrounded only by those dark lotuses, emitting a ghastly, ghostlyughter!

    Yun Xiao had no time to think!

    At this critical moment, an ancient bronze coffin''s shadow emerged around him!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The palm struck the coffin lid, releasing a thunderous roar that shook the heavens and earth.

    The entire Divine Heavenly Pavilion trembled, a wave of ck light sweeping out, instantly ttening hundreds of nearby pces!

    "Go!" Blue Star''s voice trembled as he caught the force of the blow, suddenly slipping into the void.

    In the divinend of the Celestial Court, a ck crevice formed, heading toward the direction of the arena.

    <em>BOOM! </em>It all happened in a sh.

    With a thud, Yun Xiao was ejected from the coffin and crashed to the ground, his blood churning. He retched.

    The ancient bronze coffin transformed into a small ck beast that crouched on the ground, vomiting a mouthful of ck blood.

    "Damn! Damn! Damn!" Red Moon howled, fury peaking, eyes aze.

    "Damn it, that beast, so strong and yet so cunning!" Blue Star shrieked.

    This was the first time they had been this enraged.

    But the angriest of all was Yun Xiao.

    Having narrowly escaped death, he understood clearly; he had been yed.

    Everything An Yao ryed from the Chaos Sovereign was bait. The moment Yun Xiao showed his talents that truly threatened him, there was only one thought in his opponent''s mind.

    That was, to kill! If it were in public, people from the Thunder Department and other Immortals would raise objections. So, he lured him into the shadows, to kill him directly!

    This Greatest War God of the Celestial Court, dominated by the Chaos Soul, did he even care about the matter of the incense offering?

    To Yun Xiao, it no longer mattered...

    Dragging his nearly disintegrated body, he stood up and looked toward the direction of the Divine Heavenly Pavilion.

    There, a cloud of dust formed a ck lotusrge enough to blot out the sun, as if to show Yun Xiao who ruled this world!

    "Sovereign Lu, just you wait." Yun Xiao took a deep breath. With that, he headed towards the direction of the Immortal Tournament.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Back in the tournament venue, the explosion from the Divine Heavenly Pavilion had rmed all the Immortals, who were now converging towards Yun Xiao.

 Chapter 632: Sins of Sovereign Lu!

    Chapter 632: Sins of Sovereign Lu!

    At the Divine Heavenly Pavilion, amidst the ck lotus smoke that dispersed with the wind, Lu Fan lowered his head over the ruins of Suite 95, ncing at the charred bloodstain on his right palm. His expression held an intriguing blend of colors.

    "Deservedly the first non-female conquest mission released by the system, and quite challenging. How did he not die from that?"

    Lu Fan cast his gaze towards the venue for the Immortal Tournament, his eyes brewing with the intent to fight and to kill.

    "Sir Lu, are you hurt?" The Lunar Mistress tenderly inquired, caressing Lu Fan¡¯s hand with a heartache.

    With a casual flick of his wrist, Lu Fan sent her tumbling to the ground, then turned towards the fighting tform.

    He had only taken a few steps when a flying talisman fluttered down before him!

    Touching it, the peach-shaped talisman unfolded in front of his eyes, revealing a row of pinkish-white script.

    ¡¸<em>Do not disgrace me any further.</em>¡¹

    These words halted Lu Fan in his tracks.Augh escaped him, amused, "You did well to leverage the various powers around you. But this treasure coffin of yours, how many times can it truly be used? There''lle a time when it''s useless, won''t there?"

    After speaking, Lu Fan''s gaze settled on An Yao, who had been standing still, head bowed not far away.

    "Good thing I forged an extra Divine Exploration Staff."

    As Lu Fan spoke, An Yao looked up, his spirit restored, a nonchnt smile ying on his lips as he made his way towards the fighting tform.

    "Daddy." Wuqing clutched at Lu Fan¡¯s sleeve, a look of pitiful affection on her face.

    "You go as well," Lu Fan said, patting the young woman¡¯s lower back.

    "Alright." Blushing, Wuqing trailed behind An Yao, her small skirt and fox tail fluttering as she ran.

    Turning around, Lu Fan lifted the Lunar Mistress onto his shoulder, his eyes slowly blooming with twin golden lotuses, his presence growing especially eerie.

    "Incense offerings? Never expected such a ssic, brainless, righteous protagonist to truly exist in a xianxia drama. This job is getting more and more interesting."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Near the fighting tform, Yun Yin, with the Thunder Department¡¯s Immortals, gathered around Yun Xiao to check his injuries. Further away, the figures of the Taisui Sage, Dragon Tiger Sovereign, Moon Sword Goddess, and the dark sword shadow were all fixed on Yun Xiao.

    The recentmotion had been too great. Yun Xiao had been pped from the Divine Heavenly Pavilion all the way to the fighting tform, nearly expelled from the Divine Gateway... Such a spectacle did not escape the eyes of the assembled Immortals.

    The blossoming ck lotus clearly revealed who had struck.

    "Is Sovereign Lu intending to kill Lu Yao?"

    "With such a heavy hand, how did Lu Yao survive?"

    The sudden and unexpected turmoil caught the Immortals off guard, their faces betraying a storm of emotions beneath their calm exteriors. These were the peak beings of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, well-versed in the ways of power and prophecy. They knew the truth¡ªthat the Chaos Sovereign genuinely attempted to end Yun Xiao''s life, and by some miracle, the young man had survived. The confusion was palpable.

    As whispers and guesses about Yun Xiao''s origins circted, the Immortals had a foreboding sense that he might be another prodigy nurtured by the Chaos Sovereign, walking alongside An Yao just moments before chaos erupted.

    "What exactly happened here?" Yun Yin, having just managed his son''s affairs, rushed back to the fighting tform and was greeted by this bewildering scene, his heart pounding like wild seas.

    Yun Xiao appeared unharmed, though the vitality of Blue Star and Red Moon seemed somewhat diminished after he had spewed out the divine peach they''d consumed from that divine p.

    Straightening his robe, Yun Xiao addressed the gathering with a steady voice, "Thank you all for your concern. The matter between Sovereign Lu and myself is merely a family affair."

    "A family affair?" His words only deepened the mystery, prompting murmurs and puzzled nces. What kind of family matter warranted such a spectacle?

    From the quiet crowd, the revered Empress Zhao spoke softly, "What family matter calls for such drastic measures?"

    Yun Yin whispered urgently to Yun Xiao, "Quick, let the Empress Dowager intervene on your behalf."

    With a respectful gaze towards the exalted Empress Zhao, Yun Xiao clenched his jaw and dered, "I wish to formally use Sovereign Lu!"

    Silence fell over the tform, the air thick with tension as all eyes turned to Yun Xiao, each Immortal seemingly lost in thought. Yet, no voice broke the silence. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Empress Zhao, with a slight smile, prodded, "What grievances does this young genius hold?"

    Yun Xiao scoffed, his voice tinged with anger, "27 years ago, Lu Fan, then known as Lu Bufan, was a mere Rank 9 Arbiter in the Skyruler Immortal Manor. He had a wife and two sons, the older being Lu An, and the younger, Lu Yao.

    "Rumored to have died in service, Lu Bufan miraculously transformed, abandoning his family for a meteoric rise in the Heavenly Pce. He engaged with numerous women, built a vast harem, and neglected his blind wife and children who endured insults and hardships. His oldest son, Lu An, was cruelly murdered by his superiors, an act ignored by Lu Fan, the so-called Greatest War God of the Celestial Court!

    "Today, his younger son, Lu Yao, came to question him, and rather than showing remorse, Sovereign Lu attempted to kill me! How can such a man,cking in loyalty, righteousness, and filial piety, be fit to represent the Celestial Court ormand the Great Dao Celestial Army?"

    Yun Xiao''s voice rose with fury as he addressed the gathered Immortals, "Everything I have said today is the truth. The name An Yao itself is proof! The truths about Lu Fan and Lu Bufan are there for all to verify in Sky Soaring City. I stake my life on my words."

    As Yun Xiao finished, a deeper silence enveloped the surroundings. The immortals of the Thunder Department, including Yun Yin, stood agape, stunned as they stared at the young man.

    Rumors of his lineage had circted. Yet, Sovereign Lu''s recent actions had seemingly quashed such spections. But now, the truth was more bizarre than anyone could have imagined.

    In the hearts of the gathered Immortals, the story turned and turned again.

    He truly was the son of the Chaos Sovereign, but theirs was a bond riven with enmity.

    Empress Zhao''s inquiry had been driven by curiosity; she hadn''t expected Yun Xiao to openly challenge his father. Such an usation could devastate the reputation of a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer.

    With so many witnesses, the word would surely spread.

    A stunned silence fell over the fighting tform. Everyone exchanged nces, speechless.

    All eyes eventually turned to Empress Zhao.

    With a stern face, she dered, "Rest assured, if Sir Lu is as you say he is, I will speak with him. He will rectify his wrongs and make amends to you and your mother."

    Her words were measured, certainly not enough to strip him of his position, but Yun Xiao had achieved his aim.

    Yun Xiao was a man who kept his grudges. Lu Fan¡¯s p had severed any chance of reconciliation. Even if Yun Xiao was no match for him now, he was determined to make Lu Fan''s life ufortable.

    "Empress Dowager!" Yun Xiao looked up, his eyes zing, "Today, Lu Bufan''s p has severed all ties I had with him in my heart. I seek no repentance from him, nor any reparations. I want to take this moment to dere that from now on, he and I have no connection whatsoever!"

    Empress Zhao shook her head and sighed, powerless.

    Theplexities of family disputes were indeed difficult for even a celestial judge to untangle.

    Yun Xiao''s deration hinted at deeper implications, catching the attention of those who harbored interest in this young prodigy.

    "Now is the time to act," the Taisui Sage mused, stroking his long beard. He was tempted yet hesitant. He knew that taking in Lu Yao would mean confronting the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court. An old man like him wasn''t up to the task.

    "The best opportunity is now, before Lu Yao and An Yao''s conflict is resolved;ter will be toote."

    With Yun Xiao and Lu Fan now openly hostile, the pinnacle of the Immortal Tournament was charged with an explosive new energy.

    As the Taisui Sage was pondering this, from the direction of the Divine Gateway, a bolt of violet lightning raced towards them.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The lightning morphed into a strikingly handsome young man in a violet robe. Though youthful in appearance, he exuded an aura thick and tumultuous as thunder, his presence intense and fiery,manding awe from all around...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Rumored to have died in service, Lu Bufan miraculously transformed, abandoning his family for a meteoric rise in the Heavenly Pce. He engaged with numerous women, built a vast harem, and neglected his blind wife and children who endured insults and hardships. His oldest son, Lu An, was cruelly murdered by his superiors, an act ignored by Lu Fan, the so-called Greatest War God of the Celestial Court!</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 633: Ill See it Through to The End!

    Chapter 633: I''ll See it Through to The End!

    ¡°Nine Thunders Sovereign!¡±

    ¡°Your timing couldn''t be more perfect.¡±

    The Immortals muttered under their breaths.

    It was clear why the Nine Thunders Sovereign appeared at that moment.

    First, he paid his respects to Empress Zhao, then he descended in front of Yun Xiao, as if greeting an old friend. He inquired with genuine concern, ¡°How are your injuries? Do you need more time to recover? If necessary, I can ask the Thunder Department to dy the remaining two battles for you.¡±

    Yun Xiao shook his head, ¡°No need. I want to fight the remaining battles now!¡±

    From his words, it was evident how desperate he was to defeat An Yao and prove himself!

    Thinking about it, it made sense.

    His own father despised him and his mother, focusing solely on his own ascent, leaving them to fend for themselves.Not only that, but his father had also taken a disciple, naming him An Yao... Wasn¡¯t this a pure mockery of his own family?

    ¡°Now, Lu Yao is thoroughly one of us in the Thunder Department!¡±

    ¡°Lu Fan has practically pushed his own son into the arms of the Nine Thunders Sovereign!¡±

    ¡°The drama is getting interesting.¡±

    Suddenly, the surroundings were abuzz with excitement.

    Everyone anticipated the final showdown among the semi finalists!

    The immortals resumed their honored seats.

    Yun Xiao and the Nine Thunders Sovereign stood side by side at the front of the arena.

    ¡°Where is Thunder Emissary Cao?¡± Yun Xiao asked, his voice tinged with coldness.

    ¡°Her message should be arriving soon,¡± the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied.

    As soon as he finished speaking, Yun Xiao received a flying talisman from Cao Shuo.

    ¡¸<em>Lu Yao, I am well and watching your splendid performance at the Hall of Soaring Thunder. I await your victorious return to the Thunder Department as its Arbiter, covered in glory.</em>¡¹

    Yun Xiao pocketed the talisman.

    ¡°Do you have a preference for sisterly types?¡± the Nine Thunders Sovereign suddenly asked.

    Yun Xiao nced at him and replied, ¡°I don¡¯t have many friends in the Thunder Department. If more people truly care for me, I will genuinely dedicate myself to the Thunder Department.¡±

    ¡°Understood," The Nine Thunders Sovereign nodded.

    ¡°Do you dare to protect me? Are you not afraid of Lu Bufan?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    With a smile, the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied, ¡°Am I mistaken? This is the Great Dao Celestial Realm, the Heavenly Pce of the Celestial Court, not the brigand camp of Sovereign Lu.¡±

    ¡°Very well.¡± With that, Yun Xiao felt reassured. After the unexpected p, he quickly regained hisposure. Relying on his innate charisma, he attracted <em>investors</em> and withstood the pressure from Lu Fan.

    ¡°From this moment, alive or dead, I belong to the Thunder Department,¡± Yun Xiao dered.

    ¡°Speak less of that, or it might lose its charm.¡± The Nine Thunders Sovereign chuckled.

    Beside them, Nine Kites watched her father and the striking young man in white, caught in a deep internal struggle.

    Soon, the time for the semifinals would arrive.

    Four battles to determine the champion of the Celestial Court!

    ¡°Semifinalists, assemble!¡± the Longevity Immortal announced.

    Yun Xiao nced at the old Immortal who oversaw the stewing of hopeful ascenders, then at the fierce-looking Nine Thunders Sovereign beside him. He never imagined that he would be allied with them against Lu Fan.

    He had intended to stand with Lu Fan...

    ¡°One can''t always get what one wants in life; everyone has their own interests and ideas. No need for naivety. Since everything depends on oneself, then I might as well fight through alone!¡±

    Quickly, the focus shifted.

    Unexpectedly for Yun Xiao, An Yao and Wuqing arrived together.

    They made no effort to hide their rtionship.

    The fox demon, once a sly trickster, returned to her pure and serene demeanor.

    An Yao, grinning and nodding as if unaffected by the earlier incident, didn¡¯t spare Yun Xiao another nce.

    Just a short while ago, they had been as close as brothers.

    In this strange atmosphere, Empress Zhao once again drew the match-ups.

    The Longevity Immoral took the jade slip and announced, ¡°Lu Yao, Wuqing, you¡¯re up.¡±

    Wuqing stepped forward and knelt before Empress Zhao, bowing her head. "Your Majesty, I know I am no match for Lu Yao and will not disgrace myself by fighting a futile battle."

    Empress Zhao nodded with a smile, appreciating her prudence. "To retreat knowing the odds requires courage. Granted."

    This concession allowed Wu Guang, a lucky contender who had stumbled into the semifinals, to also kneel and speak. "Your Majesty, I stand no chance against An Yao and would only embarrass myself further. Moreover, I was recently defeated by Wuqing. So, I will not waste everyone¡¯s time in the contest for third ce."

    He cleanly conceded both of his potential battles.

    Normally, even if one avoided confronting An Yao, they might still challenge for third ce!

    His choice indicated that the situation between Yun Xiao and An Yao was too charged and sensitive. In such a climate, it was best not to embarrass oneself unnecessarily.

    "Does this settle the third-ce spot, then? Leaving only the fight for the champion," Empress Zhao asked with a soft chuckle.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "In that case, let''s proceed to the main event, shall we?" the Dragon Tiger Sovereign suggested.

    "Indeed!" came the cheerful agreement from the gathered Immortals.

    Except for the Thunder Department, no one really took sides; they only sought to observe. Only the Thunder Department, concerned with dignity and honor, eagerly anticipated the match.

    Yun Xiao''s exceptional talent, having survived Lu Fan''s deadly attack, was too enticing... But only the Thunder Department dared support him, indicating the formidable power of Lu Fan!

    All eyes then turned to Yun Xiao and An Yao.

    An Yao spat out a straw from his mouth, cracked his knuckles, and made a <em>jump shot</em> gesture as if tossing a ball. After stretchingnguidly, he ascended the fighting tform.

    "Truly cool..." Nine Kites murmured to herself.

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao was somewhat speechless. That gesture, resembling a fool¡¯s antics, was deemed cool?

    "Whom do you support?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Of course, you¡ªthe hope of the Thunder Department!" Nine Kites quickly replied.

    Yun Xiao looked at her with a resigned expression.

    He knew there was only one way to ovee her demonic affliction.

    His eyes sought An Yao, who stood upon the fighting tform. Even now, An Yao cocked his head, hands tucked into imaginary pockets, shoulders shrugged, his expression yfully scrutinizing Yun Xiao.

    In his gaze was the mockery of one born to destiny, as if he knew himself to be the protagonist of the script.

    ¡°That look¡­¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s heart jolted! He saw it! That look was strikingly simr to Lu Fan''s.

    ¡°So, it¡¯se to this!¡± The fire in Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes zed higher.

    ¡°What?¡± Blue Star asked.

    ¡°There never was an An Yao; this man is Lu Fan¡¯s body double! They are one and the same!¡± Yun Xiao dered.

    ¡°Oh?¡± Blue Star gave a deep look, slightly astonished. ¡°Indeed, they are cut from the same soul, no wonder.¡±

    ¡°That makes this fight a tough one,¡± Red Moon added.

    This foe, failing in his stealthy attempt at murder, now sought to execute Yun Xiao openly.

    Having failed with his main guise, he had resorted to his alternate!

    Given Lu Fan¡¯s nature, if he aimed to kill someone, he¡¯d never allow them any chance to grow; he seized any opportunity to strike!

    This was truly the most formidable opponent!

    Realizing this, Yun Xiao took a deep breath, rage ring in his eyes.

    ¡°Lu Fan, this game of yours, I¡¯ll see it through to the end!¡±

 Chapter 634: Arrival of the Emperor

    Chapter 634: Arrival of the Emperor

    The Immortal Tournament, a sh at the pinnacle!

    This battle captured the attention of the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Within the Great Dao Celestial Army, An Yao was surrounded by an endless throng, supported by countless admirers!

    The battle unfolded under the brilliant lights of the Thunder Department, a spectacle surely mirrored in the Great Dao Celestial Army''s own realm.

    The audience was vast, extending far beyond the Heavenly Pce of the Celestial Court, epassing esteemed Immortals from all quarters!

    As expected by Yun Xiao, the most distinguished spectator from the Great Dao Celestial Realm was also present in person to witness the birth of the champion of the Immortal Tournament.

    Before Yun Xiao made his entrance, the Longevity Immortal suddenly sensed something, his face solemn as he dered loudly, "The Emperor arrives!"

    In the Celestial Court, there was but one Emperor!

    At this promation, all the Heavenly Officers present wore solemn expressions, turning respectfully towards the east.A holy light shone forth, illuminating the scene with a procession led by celestial cranes and auspicious lions, surrounded by celestial dances and songs, with glimmers of dawn''s light flickering through.

    A radiant beam descended from the heavens,nding beside Empress Zhao. The celestial cranes and auspicious lions transformed into a celestial throne of clouds to receive this radiant light.

    Yun Xiao nced over and saw upon the cloud throne, an elderly figure dressed in white, with white hair and white eyes.

    This elder was unlike any Yun Xiao had seen before: ethereal and immacte, exuding an aura of sanctity and divinity¡ªalmost the perfect embodiment of a celestial being as mortals might imagine!

    He was pure, radiant, and perfect!

    And though he bore the visage of an elder, his demeanor carried a sense ofpassion, holiness, and justice, embodying supreme benevolence!

    His presence, unlike the overwhelming spectacle of the Chaos Sovereign,manded a profound reverence!

    After all, he was the Celestial Emperor of this vast Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    "All hail His Majesty''s sacred presence."

    At that moment, the Immortals gathered at the venue bowed in reverence.

    The pure-white elder smiled and nodded.

    His gaze fell on Yun Xiao and An Yao, his expression warm as he spoke, "Both of you are jewels of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, the twin marvels of the Celestial Court, a blessing for all paths!"

    "Thank you for your praise, Emperor. The path of immortality is boundless, and we, mere mortals, tread it cautiously, daring not to presume," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Well said, I feel the same," An Yao chuckled in agreement.

    The Celestial Emperor cracked a smile in response.

    Seeing this, the assembled Immortals joined in theughter, filling the surroundings with a joyful atmosphere, a stark contrast to the tense anticipation that had preceded the final fight.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao managed augh too, but as he observed the exalted Emperor, his heart churned with tumultuous undercurrents.

    "Don''t be fooled by the old man''s saintly demeanor, as if he were a god among the clouds; his incense aura is the most exaggerated I''ve ever seen," Blue Star remarked coolly.

    "I''ve cracked it¡ªthe foundation of the Celestial Court is indeed rotten, and rotten to the very core," Yun Xiao thought to himself with a silent sigh.

    A dynastic regime, where the supreme ruler at the pinnacle became the most unscrupulous criminal¡ªwhat hope could there be for the integrity of the entire system?

    The flower of the Thunder Department, riddled with ws, officials covering for each other, the transmission of incense, people like Cao Shuo branded as pariahs...

    Even the venerable Longevity Immortal, stationed at the Ascension Pool, stewing up ascenders who dared toin, one batch after another...

    All these issues stemmed from the radiant, saintly Celestial Emperor!

    A crooked beam would lead to crooked rafters!

    "Do you mean to say his incense has reached such exaggerated levels?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Terrible enough to make one nauseous," Blue Star grimaced.

    "Could you borate?" Yun Xiao''s voice was chillingly cold.

    "Remember the Great Horned Immortals?" Blue Star asked.

    "I do."

    "If the incense value of the Great Horned Immortals were 100, what do you guess this old man¡¯s would be?"

    One thousand, 5,000, 10,000?" With each guess, Yun Xiao''s heartbeat intensified, as each number represented the dire fates of countless beings.

    "100,000." Blue Star didn''t beat around the bush, directly quantifying with a starkparison.

    "100,000..."

    A fierce ze surged within Yun Xiao, scorching his throat and mind, rendering him speechless for a moment.

    All had already urred, and hemented the Creator Immortal''s toote rebirth.

    He had anticipated that the Celestial Emperor would be extreme, but the brutal reality had exceeded even his imagination.

    "Under the celestialdder of immortality, where power disparities are vast, those devoid of the moral path who gain extraordinary power can easily unleash uncontroble human disasters¡ªamon sight in today¡¯s realms," Blue Star stated tly.

    "Did I cause this?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "me you? You are the creator of it all; without you, not even life itself would exist. It''s just that the Six Ancestral Gods who now govern the heavenly path each have their ws," Blue Star said with a coldugh.

    "That''s beside the point."

    Before Yun Xiao stood not the Six Ancestral Gods, but both the Emperor of the Celestial Court, and a Chaos Spirit that also unreasonably sought his destruction!

    "Lu Yao, step onto the arena."

    Under the watchful eyes of endless Immortals, the Longevity Immortal began to urge action.

    The Emperor had arrived¡ªhow could he be kept waiting?

    As the Longevity Immortal descended, the venue fell into utter silence, the eyes of top Heavenly Officers all around were stern¡ªthis was not an asion for cheers and encouragement.

    The high-ranking figures of the Immortal Sword Court, Imperial Treasury, Thunder Department, and Martial Department all watched the arena, their expressions inscrutable.

    This battle carried a deeper significance, symbolizing a confrontation between the old and new forces of the Celestial Court, with oues that would undoubtedly be profound.

    "The rise of An Yao is like another Chaos Sovereign; he''s hidden his depths well, never losing a match. Such an Anima Immortal is truly unfathomable," Gu Suwan said, genuinely anxious for Yun Xiao for once, her eyes trembling and her heart pounding fiercely.

    "But Lu Yao has also been astonishing time after time," Yun Yin remarked.

    "That may be true, but it''s not An Yao I''m worried about¡ªit''s the Chaos Sovereign..." Gu Suwan said, her voice trembling.

    "..." Yun Yin fell silent.

    What tactics might the Chaos Sovereign have passed on to An Yao?

    He too knew the terror of the Chaos Sovereign!

    For a moment, even he, the Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General, felt his heart race with anxiety.

    The death of a son, an undying hatred!

    The more he hated, the more anxious he became, the more he feared Yun Xiao''s defeat. Should thate to pass, no one in the Great Dao Celestial Realm could ever hope to control the Chaos Sovereign and his disciple again!

    At this moment, the Immortals of the Thunder Department were thankful to the Chaos Sovereign for attempting to deal that deadly blow to Lu Yao, for if those three powers were united, it would have spelled utter despair...

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On the fighting tform, when Yun Xiao''s gazended on the young man whose hands were in his pockets, one foot forward, the other back, shoulders hunched, spine curved, and head tilted¡ªa clear underdog¡ªhis world narrowed to just the two of them.

    One was as ethereal as the Emperor of the Celestial Court, while the other seemed a mere street rat. Aside from Nine Kites, no one would believe their appearances could possibly sh.

    Fortunately, in the merciless paths of celestialbat, looks did not matter.

    Victors were often glorified, while even the most handsome of the fallen were left in dismal, ugly defeat.

    An Yao stretchedzily and grinned, "This righteous fury of yours, I''ve crushed countless like you. Compared to them, you''re just another archetype."

    "That just shows you don''t know me," Yun Xiao replied.

    What An Yao saw was only his facade, not the greedy, wrathful, and foolish spirit born from the mortal realm!

    "Ha! Got any more hidden traits?" An Yao shrugged and clutched his forehead, almostughing in spasms. Hisnguid, content demeanor, yet with a strategic air, spoke of immense self-confidence.

    Yun Xiao knew all this was granted by the Chaos Spirit!

    The Chaos Spirit, masquerading as a so-called <em>System</em>, was now a mere unconscious tool in his mind.

    Armed with this System, An Yao had grown strong without effort, his arrogance soaring to the heavens.

    The world of life-and-death struggles, love, and hate was, to him, merely a game he could never lose!

    Yun Xiao stared coldly at his smug game-ying demeanor, recalling the brutal p from the Chaos Sovereign that had subdued him, a surge of malevolence rising within.

    His greed, wrath, and foolishness were being called righteousness?

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh internally at the irony.

    "Let him witness the merciless yer of the celestial path, the one who devours without a trace of what was consumed!"

    True brutes did not prey on the weak or the poor, but feasted upon the pseudo Immortals, the hypocrites, and the falsely ordained!

    With a metallic ring, Yun Xiao spoke no further; his left hand brandished the Prison Warden Sigil, and his right hand unleashed the Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    d in azure and violet, Yun Xiao''s aura surged wildly, brimming with a lethal intent so sharp it was startling!

    Although the Heaven Burial Sword Soul held only four Sword Prisons, the deathly power it radiated did not lose out to the Prison Warden Sigil.

    Everyone remembered how his sword triggered seven rings in the Sword Suppression Gate.

    "The dual mastery of sword and sigil, both at the upper echelon, his swordsmanship and sorcery are unparalleled¡ªthis boy truly has the perfect potential for both!" the Taisui Sagemented.

    "Yet the path of the Anima Immortal is profoundly unpredictable, life and death, victory and defeat, all hard to foresee..." The Longevity Immortal squinted.

    The moment Yun Xiao released his sword and sigil, it instantly tensed every Immortal present.

    Only An Yao responded with a silent chuckle, pping vigorously. "What perfect innate talent for dual mastery of sword and sigil, born for battle, the protagonist is indeed you!"

    "Oh." Yun Xiao responded coolly.

    Suddenly, hemanded the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and the Prison Warden Sigil to fly off the battle tform, sending the sword before the Moon Sword Goddess and the sigil before Gu Suwan, where they hovered in the air.

    "Master, foster mother, keep these safe for me. If they drift an inch away from you, consider me defeated," Yun Xiao stated evenly.

    His words first silenced the crowd momentarily, then stirred a flurry of whispers.

    Without letting the Immortals specte further, Yun Xiao turned a cold gaze towards An Yao, his lips slightly curling as he slowly said, "To defeat you, I won''t be needing them."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "If the incense value of the Great Horned Immortals were 100, what do you guess this old man¡¯s would be?"

    One thousand, 5,000, 10,000?" With each guess, Yun Xiao''s heartbeat intensified, as each number represented the dire fates of countless beings.

    "100,000." Blue Star didn''t beat around the bush, directly quantifying with a starkparison.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 635: Chaos Lotus!

    Chapter 635: Chaos Lotus!

    A hush fell over the highest gathering of the Celestial Court as the words spread¡ªa stir of whispers and uneasy nces. The Northstar Sword Devil, Nine Thunders Sovereign, and the Dragon Tiger Sovereign¡ªall Rank 1 Heavenly Officers¡ªflinched at the bold deration.

    ¡°Has he lost his mind?¡±

    ¡°Until now, his most potent weapons have been his sword and sigil.¡±

    Yet now, the brash youth had discarded his two aces?

    ¡°He wants to take down his father, but he''s giving up his two advantages to show off. It''s a mismatch of actions and goals,¡± the Northstar Sword Devil remarked.

    ¡°But one must admit, he''s quite calcting too.¡± The Dragon Tiger Sovereign chuckled. ¡°By sending his sword and sigil to the Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwan, he¡¯s bound himself to your Immortal Sword Court and the Thunder Department.¡±

    ¡°An Yao¡¯s showing off was sloppy inparison,¡± the Nine Thunders Sovereign coldly stated.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s gamble, though pushing him to the brink, crushed An Yao¡¯s presence so thoroughly that nothing remained.

    Upon hearing this, the cloaked youth¡¯s eyes widened in shock.pping thunderously, An Yao eximed in awe of Yun Xiao, ¡°My good brother, you really are something else. You know the odds are against you. Yet, you''re still doing shy things like this?¡±

    Yun Xiao, serene as the ocean, nced dismissively and spoke, ¡°Lu Fan, your anxious scratching looks like that of a red-bottomed baboon. In the Immortal Tournament, using a body double to fool others is one thing, but must you be so pitifullyical?¡±

    The words were mocking, but they were nothingpared to what he called An Yao¡ªLu Fan!

    These words boomed like thunder across the fighting tform, piercing An Yao as if three sharp swords stabbed into his face!

    Instantly, An Yao¡¯szy, joking smile vanished, his expression twisted into a ferrous scowl, as though he nned to crush Yun Xiao in a single blow!

    His reaction only confirmed the truth to all within the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    It didn''t matter if the Chaos Sovereign was only ying around. For an esteemed figure like him to participate in a tournament meant for juniors with a body double waspletely unprecedented.

    Now exposed yet again by his <em>son</em>, the Chaos Sovereign''s reputation would undoubtedly be stained anew.

    All eyes in the heavens turned, and the expressions among the Immortals were spectacr.

    "The Chaos Sovereign is truly angered now." The Nine Thunders Sovereignughed.

    "His old face,pletely torn apart by his own youngest son," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign added.

    "Lu Yao is quite something; I couldn''t even tell it was a body double," the Northstar Sword Devil confessed.

    At this moment, An Yao''s face, once full of confidence, turned dark as ink under Yun Xiao¡¯s verbal p.

    His ck eyes fixed dead on Yun Xiao.

    "Are the clear conditions for this mission really that tough?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    He hadn''t expected it! Only now did An Yao be truly serious. With his nature, anything inexplicable was met with direct destruction.

    "Darn it!" With a curse, An Yao shifted into his battle mode, one that had suppressed Nine Kites and obliterated Yun Alter before. Facing a young opponent who had discarded his Sword Soul and Life Sigil, his spiritual power surged like an abyss unleashed!

    All his life, he had been the deceiver, but now he had been outyed!

    "Let¡¯s see if you can withstand this pressure without your Sword Soul and Life Sigil!"

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>He didn''t realize it, but this was the first time since arriving in this world that he''d been so thoroughly humiliated!

    In an instant, he pushed the power of his body double to its limit. A ck lotus spirit manifested before him, blooming ferociously.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As the spirit formed, the entire battle tform plunged into a dark storm, all divine light obscured, leaving only the devastating spiritual tempest.

    Before Yun Xiao, An Yao and the ck lotus spirit seemed as one, their spiritual power reaching the heavens.

    An Yao''s fingers touched the ck lotus spirit, and its petals unfurled, transforming into ck dragons with scales of lotus petals, circling him with overwhelming spiritual force, staring down Yun Xiao.

    With a flick of his hand, 18 ck dragons burst forth. And as they advanced, the dark tempest converged into a ck sea. Together with the dragon spirit, he aimed for Yun Xiao''s total annihtion.

    This attack by An Yao prompted shouts of awe. Clearly, his current disy of power was several times stronger than when he had defeated Nine Kites!

    "Danger...!" Gu Suwan instinctively screamed, her face pale.

    She was frantic. Why not use the Prison Warden Sigil with its 22 Rune Prisons?

    Under the crushing force of the ck dragon spiritual sea, Yun Xiao looked like a lone boat in a storm.

    Many Immortals panicked, but he did not.

    Visible within the dark storm, his hands formed a circle in front of him, within which the seated golden Creator Immortal spirit emerged!

    This was clearly the inest and most lowly true-self spirit. However, the spirit manifested was that of the Creator Immortal!

    At that moment, a profound stillness fell over heaven and earth. The surrounding malicious ck dragons spawned from the lotus of destruction lost their power and fury in an instant.

    This was the spirit of the purest form, the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit¡ªtranscending the physical and embracing the ethereal.

    Encircled by a halo of golden light that surpassed even the spirits of Golden Immortals, Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit burst forth with a radiant tinum glow. In that moment, his presence was like a vast divine sea, its power unfurling with majestic force.

    ¡°This is the true source of spiritual essence!¡±

    Yun Xiao''s spirit opened its golden eyes and nced at An Yao¡¯s ck lotus.

    With a flick of its sleeve, the spirit transformed into a white lotus.

    Yun Xiao pointed, and the white lotus unfolded into 99 white dragons, their scales like petals, surging forth amidst a symphony of sacred sounds toward the explosive golden sea of soul.

    The onlookers erupted in astonishment!

    First to react was An Yao, who for the first time in his life, roared in disbelief, ¡°Impossible! The System said these were Dark Abyss Spirit Dragons!"

    How could this be! He had just summoned 18 such dragons, but Yun Xiao instantly called forth 99!

    Moreover, their essence was entirely different!

    Where the ck lotus signified destruction, Yun Xiao¡¯s tinum dragons embodied purity and sanctity, dispelling evil and radiating a righteous, overwhelming force.

    As the tinum and ck seas shed, Yun Xiao overwhelmed An Yao with a force that swallowed the darkness. The light brutally suppressed An Yao¡¯s spiritual power, pressing it against his forehead.

    ¡°Chaos Lotus!¡± An Yao¡¯s face changed dramatically for the second time. Gone were his ease and strategicmand, reced by a desperate surge of spiritual force at this critical moment.

    The ck dragon and the sea of souls suddenly contracted, transforming back into a ck lotus that, in a blink, merged with An Yao. His body was instantly covered in countless lotus inscriptions, turning pitch ck as ink.

    A terrifying aura of destruction burst from him.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao let out a coldugh, his spirit''s gaze shifted, and the 99 white dragons along with the tinum sea of souls quickly gathered and surged into Yun Xiao''s body. In an instant, he shone with a brilliance several times greater than An Yao¡¯s, radiating a tinum lotus light.

    "Damn it!" An Yao¡¯s eyes widened, rooted to the spot in shock.

    What in the world! He even knew the Chaos Lotus!

    "Lu Yao, do you also have a system?!" An Yao, pale as death, roared.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao, bathed in descending golden light, his gaze as cold as a golden ocean, collided with An Yao. The tinum lotus directly shattered the Chaos Lotus.

    "GAGH!" An Yao trembled violently, his body igniting with a golden fire, his flesh and spirit evaporating at a visible rate.

    Yun Xiao, gripping his neck, looked on with a cold and serene expression, saying, "Who needs such a parasite?"

    <em>BUZZ! </em>With those words, An Yao evaporated into dust in his grip.

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath, inhaling the Buddha''s Spirit and Seed of Creation.

    <em>POOF! </em>An Yao was gone without a trace, leaving only a dangling ck robe.

    "Lu Fan, without killing you once, you¡¯d never realize who you¡¯ve provoked."

    Yun Xiao dusted off his hands, the glorious golden light fading, and walked casually off the battle tform.

    Meanwhile, at the Divine Heavenly Pavilion, a disheveled middle-aged man¡¯s eyes widened as he suddenly spat out a mouthful of ck blood¡­

 Chapter 636: Emperor Taiwei of the White!

    Chapter 636: Emperor Taiwei of the White!

    "What the hell was that?" Lu Fan extended his sleeve to wipe the blood from the corner of his mouth, his gaze growing cold and stern.

    He looked toward the direction of the battle tform, reying the recent events in his mind.

    "The body double has limited potential, just a toy. Losing the battle is trivial, but how could that little protagonist possess a soul technique rewarded by the system?"

    Lu Fan ignited the golden lotus before him.

    Staring at the golden interface, he spoke without a word, "System, wake up. The instance is bugged!"

    The golden interface changed its text.

    Eventually, it formed a small golden sentence¡­

    ¡¸<em>Analyzing¡­</em>¡¹

    "Analyzing, my ass! This bug is game breaking! If I don''t get rid of it now, I might actually be in real danger! Shit shit shit! I''m gonna throw everything I have at it!" Lu Fan said, his expression severe, not joking in the slightest.And to that statement, the golden interface offered no response.

    Lu Fan then turned to the corner where the foggy-eyed Lunar Mistress was curled up, and said, "Go back and summon all the generals for me. It''s time to prepare for the ending. I''m gonna deal with both the Immortal Asylum and Lu Yao at once. This stupid instance has dragged on for too long, even bugging out on me¡­"

    "Yes." The Lunar Mistress bowed and retreated.

    After his departure, Lu Fan''s eyes darkened as he looked toward the Celestial Court, a cold smile slowly forming on his lips.

    "In my past life reading novels, those brainless viins always gave the hero a thousand chances to grow. Unfortunately, you''re dealing with me, Lu Fan!"

    In his hands, talismans flew out.

    The entire Great Dao Celestial Realm was instantly swirled with a dark tide.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At that moment, when the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court was stirring tidal waves in the Celestial Realm, the area around the fighting tform was already buzzing like a marketce.

    To stir and ignite debate among the Immortals of at least Rank 2, to the point of standing and apuding... was unimaginable!

    Yet, Yun Xiao had aplished exactly that!

    The vaporized remains of An Yao dispersed into ck lotus petals, forming the most splendid backdrop behind Yun Xiao.

    As the young man stepped down from the fighting tform, his tinum Arbiter armor shone brilliantly, his long hair billowing, his face fair as jade, his presence otherworldly!

    "Ah..." Nine Kites gazed upon the scene, a sharp pain clutching at her heart.

    An Yao was dead!

    Fortunately, the painsted but a moment before Yun Xiao''s otherworldly beauty captured her attentionpletely, drawing her in deeply.

    This true flutter of the heart was far more intense and real than any previous feigned emotions!

    "Lu Yao!" Beside her, Gu Suwan couldn''t help but cry out, tears streaming down her face.

    Her tears, fueled partly by the glory of the Thunder Department and partly by the pride of a mother in her exceptional son, were a testament to her deep emotional involvement.

    Not just her, even the Moon Sword Goddess, usually so icy, showed a softened expression, her eyes filled with a gentle light.

    "Remarkable! Truly remarkable!"

    "He''s indeed impressive."

    "Sovereign Lu has lost both family and reputation, and the Thunder Department has gained a treasure!"

    "Who would have thought that Sovereign Lu would see such a day of defeat."

    "It seems only a monster can defeat another monster."

    "Sovereign Lu has certainly met his match this time!"

    Soon, praises echoed over the fighting tform, stirring the hearts of many Immortals.

    Those who had once suffered under Sovereign Lu felt a profound sense of relief.

    Manyughed heartily!

    The Longevity Immortal was stunned for a moment before he finally announced, "After the final match, the victor of the Immortal Tournament has been determined. The crown of the Heavenly Pce''s Champion goes to Rank 6 Arbiter Lu of the Thunder Department!"

    After a pause, he hesitantly added, "As for the honor of second ce..."

    In his hesitation, he nced covertly at Empress Zhao and the Celestial Emperor beside her.

    Amidst the rapt attention of all, the elderly old man with white hair and eyes stroked his beard and smiled. "Let it remain vacant! The prizes too shall go to our champion, for his performance today merits double honor."

    With these words, the crowd initially searched for the Lunar Mistress, then realizing she was not present, their attention turned to the lonely figure of Wuqing in the corner.

    After An Yao''s death, she kept her head bowed, silent and seemingly indifferent to not having advanced to second ce.

    But the Emperor''s decision to leave the second ce vacant sent a delicate signal.

    Earlier, Wuqing and An Yao had arrived at the fighting tform together, alerting many to the position of the Lunar Mistress.

    After An Yao''s demise, Wuqing should have automatically been moved up to second ce.

    Yet, the Emperor chose to leave it vacant, not awarding it to anyone.

    "Both the Champion and second ce prizes are mine?" Yun Xiao was thrilled at the announcement.

    Honor and status meant little to him; what he craved now were resources.

    Having just survived Sovereign Lu''s deadly maneuver, Yun Xiao knew he needed to strengthen the fading Blue Star and Red Moon, or they''d be utterly vulnerable.

    He couldn''t help but look towards the Emperor.

    "He must see something in me. Whether he intends to use me or not, it''s to my advantage." Yun Xiao excelled at leveraging his talents to entice, gradually securing backing and climbing the ranks through gathering resources.

    From Jiang Taiping to Cao Sheng, and then from the Moon Sword Goddess to the Chaos Sovereign. Unfortunately, the Chaos Sovereign didn''t y by the rules and tried to kill him on sight.

    Now, having kicked Sovereign Lu to the curb, Yun Xiao had the highest echelons of the Celestial Court within his grasp.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "The Celestial Court''s Emperor, formally known as the Supreme Celestial Emperor of the Opening Heavens, Exalted Majesty of the Mysterious Firmament, High Lord of the Golden Imperial Pce, Sage Emperor of Pure White, Marvelous Incarnation, Absolute Ruler Over All Heavens, Boundless Liberator of Mankind, Most Subtle Honored Sovereign¡­ his full title is indeed lengthy."

    Commonly addressed as the Emperor or the White Emperor, in official documents he was referred to simply as Emperor Taiwei of the White.

    Yun Xiao knew there was a reason for such an elongated title. It was because the Emperor had lived a very, very long time. Just how long?

    "It''s said that the youthful and beautiful Empress Zhao is his hundredth wife!"

    While others counted their descendants through generations, he had cycled through Empresses 100 times over.

    Despite this, his own progeny were surprisingly few, just seven.

    This generation''s Empress Zhao was his most cherished, having borne him two children¡ªthe Sixth Prince Zhen and the Seventh Princess Xi.

    Of the previous princes, aside from the Crown Prince who shared his father''s terrifying longevity, the others had not survived the test of time.

    Such was the deepest secret of the Celestial Court.

    Yun Xiao had never understood why he could live so long, but now, seeing it firsthand, he knew it had everything to do with the incense offered in worship.

    "Don''t be fooled by the Emperor''s genial appearance; withstanding Sovereign Lu''s challenges, he¡¯s not easy to deal with..."

    Although Yun Xiao was forced to stand with a faction he deeply despised, he knew exactly what he needed to do.

    At that moment, the Longevity Immortal respectfully received a sacred imperial decree from the hands of Emperor Taiwei.

    "Lu Yao, attend and hear." The Longevity Immortal, with a nod and a sway, unfurled the tinum scroll.

    "Your humble servant is here!" Yun Xiao stepped forward.

    "You, a youth of exceptional merit, have distinguished yourself with 13 consecutive victories, standing proud above the assembled talents of the Celestial Court, and iming the honor of the Immortal Tournament''s Champion¡ªa truly extraordinary feat! At this shining moment, by the Emperor¡¯s grace, a reward is bestowed upon you. May you adhere to the celestialws of the Immortal path, continue with diligence, for the sake of heaven and all beings, to uphold the righteousness of heaven, elevate the moral way, support the heavenly order, and relieve the suffering of themon folk, to be a true Immortal of the heavenly path!" the Longevity Immortal proimed, his voice echoing far and wide.

    Everything here would be showcased throughout the Thunder Department, every detail spreading across the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    "Lu Yao, I have done it!"

    The youthful spirit of Yun Xiao stirred, his heart swelling with excitement.

    A young Arbiter, aspiring only to be upright and just, who had failed the Arbiter examination¡­ yet now his name resounded through the Celestial Court!

    From that moment, who could forget this humble boy from Sky Soaring City, who loved to paint?

    "Master, Arbiter Lu..." Yun Xiao thought of Liu Mumu, recalling Lu An''s final, desperate, and sorrowful gaze as he died; the world so stark and cruel.

    If Lu An could see this moment, he might rest peacefully...

    Thinking of those ordinary people, like himself, who pursued justice and righteousness in their hearts, Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes reddened. He knew the world was dark, but there were still many, driven by a passion for fairness and justice, without status or renown, who often faced obstacles and died silently in corners like Lu An, or perished on their journey like those ascenders who tried to reach the Celestial Court.

    Out of countless aspiring ascenders, only one Yun Xiao survived, scrabbling and fighting his way to stand now in the most glorious ce in the Celestial Court!

    Who said there were no good people in the Celestial Court?

    They were either humble or had perished.

    Yun Xiao represented them!

    And in this moment, as the aura of honor enveloped him, he knew this was just the beginning; there was much more to do!

    The burning fury and indignation that first set him on this path still surged strong within him.

    As long as it remained, he would be a fiery youth fighting against the injustices of the heavenly path...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "The Celestial Court''s Emperor, formally known as the Supreme Celestial Emperor of the Opening Heavens, Exalted Majesty of the Mysterious Firmament, High Lord of the Golden Imperial Pce, Sage Emperor of Pure White, Marvelous Incarnation, Absolute Ruler Over All Heavens, Boundless Liberator of Mankind, Most Subtle Honored Sovereign¡­ his full title is indeed lengthy."</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 637: May a Thousand Starlit Prayers Pave Your Path!

    Chapter 637: May a Thousand Starlit Prayers Pave Your Path!

    The Immortals, smiling contentedly at Yun Xiao, were oblivious to the zing spirit within his heart, nor did they understand what they were nurturing at that very moment.

    The Longevity Immortal, his eyes brimming with envy, continued to proim the Emperor''s gracious awards:

    "With the prizes of first and second cebined, the Emperor grants Lu Yao 99,999,999 True Immortal Jades!"

    It was just one short of 100,000,000 True Immortal Jades!

    Yun Xiao was momentarily stunned. Back when he was a Rank 9 Arbiter, his yearly sry was barely 100 True Immortal Jades.

    A total of 100,000,000 True Immortal Jades¡ªhow many hundreds of thousands of years would that take?

    Such a staggering number, how could ordinary Immortals resist such injustice?

    And clearly, it wasn''t over yet!

    The Longevity Immortal continued, ¡°Additionally, the Emperor grants Lu Yao an Upper Dao Heaven grade celestial treasure, the tinum Champion Set, which includes a crown, robe, and boots. Each piece contains the Suan Ni Myriad Arbiter Formation!"Yun Xiao knew nothing about the tinum Champion Set, only that the Boundary Defining Divine Needle was an Upper Supreme Heaven grade celestial treasure, a whole level lower.

    Upon hearing this, Gu Suwan was even more astonished, whispering, ¡°Past champions never received something like this. The whole set together must be worth 50,000,000 True Immortal Jades.¡±

    Blue Star and Red Moon had consumed what amounted to 8,000,000 True Immortal Jades during the Divine Peach Banquet, partly because they devoured the portions of at least eight other guests, and partly because those celestial peaches and fruits, when converted to True Immortal Jades, weren''t valued as highly.

    But these 150 million True Immortal Jades were tangible!

    And the tinum Champion Set was awarded right there on the spot!

    It seemed the robe came from Empress Zhao. With a wave of her hand, three streaks of tinum light flew from her sleeves, morphing into a crown, robe, and boots¡ªlike three tinum Suan Ni charging towards Yun Xiao, swirling around him before converging upon his form!

    The tinum Champion Set, the pinnacle of Arbiters, naturally utilized the Suan Ni as its symbol. This tinum Champion Robe was a glorified piece of Arbiter armor. When this set descended upon Yun Xiao, his appearance was utterly transformed¡ªas if a tiger had grown wings!

    Before the gathered Immortals, the youth radiated a tinum glow, his brows sharp like swords, his stature tall and slim, his presence handsome and noble. The crown exuded authority, the robe was as majestic as the sea, and the boots thundered with power!

    The White Emperor Taiwei, upon witnessing the scene, could not help but exim, "Our Champion here is, without doubt, the paragon of beauty across all ages."

    This was no small praise; indeed, even many serene female Immortals trembled slightly at the sight of his beauty.

    Young, heroic, graceful, extraordinary, and fierce¡ªthese qualitiesbined made Gu Suwanpletely understand why Cao Shuo was so boldly generous.

    Truly, with such a visage and demeanor, should anything ur, it would seem a fortune for thedy involved.

    This was where Yun Xiao differed from Lu Fan; his Creator Immortal visage inherently possessed a charm that bore no trace of vulgarity.

    Yet, Yun Xiao''s concerny elsewhere. "With the tripleyers of protection, it''s like being encased in a miniature ancient bronze coffin."

    The tinum Champion Set was an absolute treasure!

    And then, under the direction of Empress Zhao, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign himself presented a golden Bag of Holding to Yun Xiao, containing nearly 100,000,000 True Immortal Jades¡ªa bounty evidently drawn from the Imperial Treasury.

    Even so, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign could still curry favor, smiling at Yun Xiao, "Should you find the time, visit my Imperial Treasury. Choose any treasure that pleases you."

    "Thank you, Sovereign Zhao," Yun Xiao replied politely.

    The Chaos Sovereign''s attempted assassination of Yun Xiao had actually turned into a great boon. Were it not for Lu Fan''s overwhelming hostility, these figures might still hesitate in their generosity.

    And yet, the imperial grace had not ceased!

    The Longevity Immortal again dered loudly, "The Emperor, admiring his genius and upon the rmendation of the Nine Thunders Sovereign¡­ Though young, Lu Yao has shown the capability to lead. Therefore, by special decree, Lu Yao is promoted to a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer, taking the post of a Chief Military Thunder Emissary!"

    This announcement sent ripples through the crowd!

    Being the Immortal Champion was temporarily just a title¡ªwithout real power or official position.

    Yun Xiao was still a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer.

    But now, before even reaching 30 years old, Yun Xiao had be a Thunder Emissary like Cao Shuo. This meant he wielded real authority, capable of mobilizing at least 10,000 Arbiters of the Thunder Department!

    In the Celestial Court, mere symbolic status was insufficient. With increasing age, one must hold both position and power; otherwise, inter years, one would be no more than a figurehead.

    But now, Yun Xiao had achieved in one leap what many might only dream of, bing the youngest Rank 4 Heavenly Officer in the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    "Lu Yao, will you not thank the Emperor for his profound grace?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign suggested.

    There, before them all, Yun Xiao loudly proimed his loyalty, aware that this had likely been the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s initiative.

    Taking up his post in the Thunder Department, Yun Xiao was now clearly one of their own, unrted to the Great Dao Celestial Army.

    Securing the title of Champion had indeed transformed him, propelling him to new heights overnight.

    Each of the three grand gifts was enough to make a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer green with envy!

    Even Yun Yin only possessed one Upper Dao Heaven grade celestial treasure!

    And those like Nine Kites and Zhao Yuanbao had only Lower Dao Heaven grade celestial treasures!

    Those heirs of Rank 1 Heavenly Officers watched as Yun Xiao soared past them.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Gu Suwan, a Rank 3 Heavenly Officer, had only a Mid Dao Heaven grade celestial treasure in her possession.

    Yun Xiao took a moment to absorb it all, thinking the shower of gifts had concluded.

    Unexpectedly, though no further promations were made, Longevity Immortal approached him with a smile.

    "What brings you here, Longevity Immortal?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "The Emperor has one final gift for you, a token of the highest recognition," the Longevity Immortal said with a deep emphasis.

    "Thanks to the Emperor''s profound grace..." Yun Xiao turned to the White Emperor, who was nodding at him with a smile.

    "Lu Yao, thisst gift is a secret reward. Please, look here," the Longevity Immortal said, handing him the celestial decree to read thest line.

    Yun Xiao looked up to see the golden script.

    ¡¸<em>May a thousand starlit prayers pave your path.</em>¡¹

    At that moment, it felt as though a sword had pierced his heart. His eyes nearly turned bloodshot with rage!

    A thousand stars... the incense offerings of countless lives, bestowed upon him!

    "So young and rootless in Sky Soaring City, you must not yet have experienced the love and incense offerings from the mortal realms," the Longevity Immortal remarked with a smile, stroking his long beard.

    Yun Xiao pursed his lips and nodded. "I have indeed never felt this kind of love from the masses."

    "That''s perfect then!" The Longevity Immortal gave him an envious nce. "A thousand starlit prayers¡ªsomething many Rank 2 Heavenly Officers can only dream of. Lu Yao, this is truly treatment only Rank 1 Heavenly Officers can enjoy! Do you realize how deeply the Emperor cares for you?"

    "The Emperor''s grace is as profound as the seas and mountains. I, Lu Yao, am duty-bound to repay it a hundredfold!" Yun Xiao dered righteously.

    The Longevity Immortal let out a heartyugh and pped Yun Xiao on the shoulder. "Well then, you must be tired today. Rest for a day at the Divine Heavenly Pavilion, ande dawn tomorrow, I will personally escort you to the mortal realms."

    Yun Xiao felt a chill inside. So soon? What was the reason? Clearly, they were trying to pull him into their ranks!

    In the Celestial Court, without a formal allegiance, problems could be immense.

    Gifts were never free; there was always a price to pay!

    Yun Xiao''s heart was turning cold, but his expression showed none of it, as he inquired, "Ummm, is it possible we can dy a day or two?"

    "Do you have affairs to attend to?" the Longevity Immortal asked sternly. "A thousand starlit prayers¡ªa boon hard won by Immortals. Don''t miss this opportune moment."

    "I understand," Yun Xiao replied, his face showing difficulty. "I just thought, having just reimed honor for the Thunder Department, it''d be fitting to hold a celebration banquet. It wouldn¡¯t take much time."

    The Longevity Immortalughed again, pping his shoulder, "Ah, the vigor of youth, I understand, truly understand!"

    After a moment''s contemtion, he added, "Then I shall wait here for your return. Try not to take more than two days, as the Emperor has other ns for you thereafter."

    "At yourmand!" Yun Xiao nodded earnestly.

    Two days then!

    First, to digest what he had earned; anything else would be met as it came.

    The reason for his return to the Thunder Department was twofold: firstly, there was the convenient excuse of the celebration, and secondly, there were many now who wished him dead, making the Thunder Department feel like a safe haven.

    But most importantly, he wanted to see for himself that Cao Shuo was safe...

    After saying this, Yun Xiao looked towards the direction of the Thunder Department.

    "Are the millions of Immortals in the Thunder Department now mad with fervor for me?"

 Chapter 638: A Beautys Tears

    The Immortal Tournament had finally drawn to a close.

    Yun Xiao transformed in an instant, bing the most celebrated figure in the divinend of the Celestial Court.

    After the awards ceremony, the White Emperor and Empress Zhao departed amidst the reverent farewells of the gathered Immortals.

    Yet, nearly none of the Immortals left!

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign personally took Yun Xiao under his wing, introducing him to the various high ranking figures of the Celestial Court. There were Ster Margraves, Merit Gods, Heavenly Masters, Primal Lords¡ªover a dozen ranks just within the Thunder Department, let alone the other 20+ departments, each with their own array of celestial generals and beyond.

    There were nearly 1,000 beings, all possessing might far surpassing Yun Xiao.

    However, the most prestigious were undoubtedly the Northstar Sword Devil, Dragon Tiger Sovereign, Nine Thunders Sovereign, and the Sixth Prince Zhen.

    "Lu Yao." The Sixth Prince, with his refined and cultured demeanor, shared a fewughs with Yun Xiao, appearing to be delighting in hispany.

    Nine Kites had returned to normal, standing by the Sixth Prince, the very picture of propriety."In ten days, I shall marry Nine Kites. I''ll send you an invitationter; you must attend," the Sixth Prince said with a smile.

    The imperial marriage edict was out, and other invitations had likely been sent already.

    "Sixth Prince, this humble Immortal will certainly be there."

    After speaking, Yun Xiao nced at Nine Kites, who returned his look with aplex expression, a hint of longing in her eyes. Yet, who she truly belonged with was clear to her, as the daughter of a Sovereign.

    And so, she leaned close to the Sixth Prince, looping her arm through his, and told Yun Xiao, "You''re a big deal now, make sure the wedding gift is a generous one. Don''t shame your family."

    At this, all the Immortalsughed.

    Good rtions allow for such jokes, and it seemed Yun Xiao had fully integrated with the Thunder Department.

    After a while longer, the Nine Thunders Sovereign dered, "Fellow colleagues, we must return to the Thunder Department to celebrate. Until next time!"

    The Immortals of the Immortal Sword Court and the Imperial Treasury bid their farewells.

    "Yue Ying," The Northstar Sword Devil called out to the Moon Sword Goddess, "You and Lu Yao share a master-disciple bond. You cannot enjoy the privileges of a master without imparting the art of the sword."

    The Moon Sword Goddess, understanding the gesture, gazed at Yun Xiao with softness rarely seen, and in a gentle voice, she asked, "Shall we return together to the Thunder Department?"

    Her typically cold demeanor softened before the assembly of Immortals, presenting a tenderness toward Yun Xiao that truly caught everyone off guard.

    Before this showdown at the Divine Gateway, she had even warned Yun Xiao that they would have no further rtionship!

    "Of course, that would be pleasant." Yun Xiao relished seeing her transition from a lofty initial demeanor to one of tender care, lowering herself to his level.

    As a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, equal in stature to Ster Margraves and Supreme Generals, she possessed the formidable sword techniques of the Immortal Sword Court!

    Yun Xiao nned to use her connection to the Immortal Sword Court to his advantage, determined to extract some benefit from her.

    So, he found himself nked by a frosty older sister mentor on one side and a pure-hearted young mother figure on the other.

    Basking in the care and attention of both older women, Yun Xiao once again boarded the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, setting off on the path back to the Thunder Department.

    "Remember to join the game when you return!" The Longevity Immortal stood at the base of the Divine Gateway, standing over the still fresh bloodstains of the Great Horned Immortals, squinting and smiling as he waved to Yun Xiao and murmured his reminder.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Taisui Sigil Pce, three figures returned from afar, entering this misty paradise that seemed a world apart.

    They were none other than the Taisui Sage, the Sixth Prince Zhen, and Nine Kites.

    Nine Kites, needing to select some wedding garments and jewelry, did not return with them to the Thunder Department.

    She walked behind, lost in thought, her pretty face somber.

    Unwittingly, the three reached the Rune Lake.

    The Sixth Prince, looking over the clear waters, asked, "Master, do you think his Life Sigil absorbed those discarded Runes in theke to form a Rune Prison?"

    "It''s not a guess, but a certainty," the Taisui Sage replied, turning to look at Nine Kites. "Little Nine, Lu Yao had no Rune Prison during the Thunder Department''s selection two days ago, right?"

    "Yes." Nine Kites nodded.

    The Sixth Prince pursed his lips, his voice hoarse, "It seems that the son of Sovereign Lu also encountered a fate-changing fortune."

    "Truly enviable," the Taisui Sage said deeply.

    "The rise of the Chaos Sovereign was because the Celestial Court had never seen a creature of such caliber before, unprepared. Now, another has emerged... Master, don''t you think depriving is higher than utilizing?" the Sixth Prince spoke calmly.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "The uncertainty is too great. The Emperor fears making the same mistake as with Sovereign Lu. You cannot view this young man as a rootless prodigy. Even Sovereign Lu struggled against him," the Taisui Sage whispered.

    "That is true indeed," the Sixth Prince nodded, then added deeply, "But there is one thing I do not believe."

    "What are you suggesting?" the Taisui Sage asked.

    "Their father-son rtionship," the Sixth Prince replied.

    "Lu Yao has spoken openly about it, and the Chaos Sovereign did not deny it. It must be true," the Taisui Sage said.

    "What I mean is, the beings controlling those bodies might not actually be the father and son themselves. Their spirits are powerful, characteristic of Immortal Devils from beyond our realm," the Sixth Prince said thoughtfully.

    "That''s a valid point," the Taisui Sage nodded.

    "My older brother handles matters rted to those outsiders. He''ll likely delve deeper into this," the Sixth Prince whispered.

    "During these troubled times, it all depends on the Crown Prince," the Taisui Sage remarked.

    Nine Kites, who was standing nearby, listened to their conversation, deeply moved.

    Just as the Sixth Prince finished speaking, he looked at her tenderly, then beckoned her closer and wrapped her in his embrace, saying, "Little Nine, you are to marry into the imperial family and must prioritize its interests. Be cautious with those who could be either foes or friends. Whether to kill or to spare them will depend on the heavenly decrees from the Emperor."

    "Yes, I understand." Nine Kites nodded obediently.

    "Your father is valued by our imperial family, and you and I are the bridge between our families. We must be united, for the benefit of both the imperial family and the Thunder Department," the Sixth Prince reminded her.

    "Prince Zhen, I am fully aware," Nine Kites responded.

    "Good." The Sixth Prince smiled gently, his demeanor as serene as jade, his face saintly.

    In his mature presence, Nine Kites surrendered her earlier fleeting infatuation from the Immortal Tournament, embracing him wholeheartedly, her arms around his sturdy waist.

    But at that moment, a chilling sensation struck all three of them!

    "Who''s there?" The Sixth Prince pushed Nine Kites behind him and looked toward the white jade bridge over the Rune Lake.

    The Taisui Sage''s gaze turned frosty.

    On the white jade bridge, as if out of nowhere, stood a young girl in a white dress, her skin as pale as pearl, surrounded by white mes and serpents of thunder, one eye aze with fury, the other shing with lightning!

    "Lil Xi!" The Sixth Prince''s eyes trembled, and his look turned profoundly strange.

    "The Seventh Princess?"

    The face of the Taisui Sage darkened instantly, and he quickly said, "Don''t be rash, your death has nothing to do with your Sixth Brother!"

    With a resounding crash, the girl in the white dress stared at them, her bare snow-white feet seemingly light upon the ground. Yet, the white jade, inscription-etched bridge beneath her cracked and shattered.

    In the next instant, the massive structure exploded into fragments!

    "Be careful!" the Taisui Sage roared, positioning himself in front of the Sixth Prince. He conjured a yellow talisman in his hand, which trembled and burst into mes, scattering fiery sparks!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Around them, reanimated Jiangshi children bared their teeth and charged like demonic beasts toward the girl in the white dress.

    With a thunderous st of white lightning, the hundreds of Jiangshi were obliterated, their remains scattering in the air.

    "Stronger than before her death?" The Taisui Sage had always considered the Lu father and son to be monstrous, but this girl in white now brought a suffocating presence that overwhelmed even that belief.

    In a sh, the girl disappeared in a burst of electricity, and in her ce appeared a massive, spiked meteor hammer. It was like a giant, ming meteor, crashing down upon the Taisui Sage!

    "Summon the talisman!" With a gesture, the Taisui Sage transformed the yellow talisman into a vast that sprawled across the sky, opening wide like a gaping maw to bite down on the ming meteor hammer.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Yet, he had underestimated the sheer destructive force of the meteor hammer. Both he and the talisman were blown away, smashing through dozens of pces along the way, with half of the Taisui Sigil Pce engulfed in blinding primordial fire!

    "Master!" The Sixth Prince''s face turned pale!

    Though a prodigious talent of the Celestial Court''s imperial lineage, young and alreadyparable in strength to many Rank 2 Ster Margraves, the oppressive force unleashed by the girl in white sent his heart racing.

    Looking up sharply, he saw the girl in white hovering in the air, wielding the meteor hammer. Clutching the chain in her small hands, she swung another smaller thunderous hammer down toward the Sixth Prince with the force of a beast!

    <em>ROAR! </em>Though small in size, the thunderous hammer moved with a terrifying velocity. In a blink, a sh of white lightning tore through the heavens, striking directly before the Sixth Prince''s forehead!

    "Little sister, I am your own brother! Whatever hatred you harbor, we can sit and talk it out..."

    Caught in a dire predicament, the Sixth Prince screamed in rm, his scalp tingling as he summoned his Life Sigil,yered with 30 Rune Prisons, and cast a spell in defense.

    Yet¡­ Even then, he had underestimated the lethal force of the Primordial Doom Stars!

    The thunderous hammer smashed through the air, instantly striking the Sixth Prince''s Life Sigil. The chaotic white lightning shredded through the 30 Rune Prisons in a moment, carrying the remnants of that force onto the Sixth Prince himself!

    "No!" The Sixth Prince''s eyes widened in disbelief and horror as he cried out.

    Beside him, Nine Kites, panicked, scrambled away, tears streaming, her voice hoarse with continuous screams.

    After rolling away, she staggered to her feet and looked up in terror!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the ground shook, the hammer, taller than a man, crashed down relentlessly, smashing the Sixth Prince into the earth, turning him into a pulpy mass of electrified flesh!

    Bones, organs, muscles¡ªall were pulverized to dust in an instant!

    "Ahhh!!" Nine Kites convulsed, her eyes trembling as she watched the girl in white controlling the deadly hammer.

    "Why... why?" she asked in bewilderment.

    This was the Seventh Princess''s own brother, born of the same parents.

    Why would she kill him?

    They were to be married in ten days, in what was to be the grandest wedding in the Great Dao Celestial Realm...

    All dreams shattered in that crushing blow.

    "You ask me why?" Above the sky, the girl in white, wreathed in thunder and mes, nced coldly at Nine Kites.

    "Yes, why... why?" Nine Kites copsed to the ground, her beauty marred by tears, heartbreakingly pitiful.

    "I don''t want to answer; you can ask him instead." With those words, the girl in white swung the thunderous hammer downward.

    A sh of lightning passed, and where Nine Kites had copsed, only a fresh pool of blood remained...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 639: Heavens Condemn, Earth Obliterates!

    Chapter 639: Heavens Condemn, Earth Obliterates!

    <em>BOOM! </em>After ying two, the barefoot girl in a white dress descended from the sky, her feetnding firmly on the ground.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A fury of thunderous lightning surged into the earth, causing the Taisui Sigil Pce to copse with a deafening roar. The mountain ridge beneath her feet shattered, hurling countless rocks and debris skyward.

    Amidst the billowing dust, one could faintly see the torn belly of the mountain filled with the bodies of young children, soaked in the dim yellow pools of medicinal brew, their eyes wide open in terror, unblinking in death¡­

    The Taisui Sigil Pce, a ce of scenic beauty, had a belly beneath it that was a celestial hell.

    "Seventh Princess!!" The Taisui Sage burst forth from the onught of the ming meteor hammer, instantly seeing the Sixth Prince and Nine Kites crushed to death.

    As their dao protector, rage surged to his head, tearing apart his innards!

    "Even beasts show kinship, yet you ughter your own, defying the heavens and forsaking the people! You will be a major sinner in the Celestial Court, deserving of 1,000 deaths!" the Taisui Sage roared with all his might.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Hasten as the decree states! The Emperor''s Dao is boundless! Vanquish evil, and arise my Taisui army!"

    At the Taisui Sage''s call, the children in the medicinal pool trembled, spitting out the brew, struggling to rise. Their eyes turned a murky yellow, staring dead at the girl in white, like tens of thousands of wild beasts unleashed."Taisui! Taisui!" The children howled, their faces twisted, as tears mixed with medicine and blood streamed down, their eyeballs melting until only hollow sockets remained.

    "Is this your Dao?" The girl in white stood amidst the thick smoke, her eyes zing with fierce fire, confronting Taisui.

    "The Great Dao spans three thousand paths; I choose but one scoop. I elevate their mortal forms to sanctity, to ascend to the Heavenly Land, to witness the celestial fire of the Celestial Court¡ªan act of supreme virtue recognized by heaven, the Emperor, and the people. What gives you, a naive princess, the right to stand on moral high ground and condemn me?" The Taisui Sage''s eyes zed with righteous fury as he bellowed.

    "Shen Xi, you choose this unrighteous path. The heavens will condemn you, and the earth will obliterate you! You stand against the myriad dao, ostracized and alone. In this Great Dao Celestial Realm, there is no ce for you! You have betrayed the trust of the Emperor and the Empress Dowager! You will not die well!"

    With that, the Taisui Sage and the countless Jiangshi children roared a thunderous deration that echoed far beyond the secluded confines of the Taisui Sigil Pce.

    In that moment, the girl in the white dress, surrounded by a murky haze of spectral decay, stood as the sole beacon of light in the world.

    Without further ado, her delicate hands gripped the celestial hammers¡ªonerge, one small¡ªand spun them furiously. In an instant, they transformed into a sea of white mes and thunderous lightning.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>All the children who dared approach were instantly obliterated into dust. Perhaps only in their final moments did those bewildered eyes of these undead children find a fleeting sense of release.

    Children should be just that, children. How many would have chosen to turn into Jianshi unless forced by dire circumstances?

    "Is she that powerful?!" The Taisui Sage watched in horror as all his <em>little treasures</em> were annihted. His face contorted even further with dismay, awe seizing his heart. He no longer wished to fight and turned to flee!

    "Save me! Save me!"

    In his panic, the Taisui Sage released a flurry of talismans and dove into the ground, trying to escape frantically.

    Suddenly, the ground ahead was cleaved open by white lightning, creating a massive chasm.

    "AHHH!" The Taisui Sage looked up in terror to see the girl in the white dress in the chasm, glowing like a Celestial Sourcecore, her radiance engulfing even the Taisui Sage himself.

    "No! NO!" As the Taisui Sage screamed, the two celestial hammers struck from either side!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Taisui Sage''s Life Sigil shattered, his body caught between the two hammers, sttering like a squashed mosquito.

    Only then did the dust begin to settle between heaven and earth.

    "May you return to the cycle..." The girl in white floated in the air, her gaze vacant as she reached out to touch the liberated souls.

    Looking back, the divinend of the Celestial Court seemed to have been ignited by fierce mes, rm spreading everywhere.

    "Don''t rush; it''s just the beginning." With that, her ethereal figure slowly vanished into the settling dust.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Thunder Department¡­

    There was a half an hour dy in the feed projected by the Thunder Immortal Formation. So, when Yun Xiao embarked on his journey back, only then did the millions of Immortals there witness the final battle!

    As Yun Xiao discarded his sword and sigil and overpowered An Yao, the body double of the Chaos Sovereign, the Thunder Department erupted in cheers so loud that it triggered hundreds of earthquakes.

    Every pce and building shook without ceasing!

    In that moment, even the Thunder Immortal Formation unleashed countless bolts of lightning!

    The entire world of the Thunder Department was in an uproar, every face flickering with electric light, every throat spewing fierce electric currents!

    This world-shaking scene demonstrated the pent-up frustration of the Immortals of the Thunder Department, who had not seen an Arbiter emerge as the Champion of the Immortal Tournament in many years.

    Now, not only did Yun Xiao allow them to release that frustration, but he did so a hundredfold!

    This was no simple duel, but a matter that touched on the dignity of the Thunder Department, against an opponent who had long suppressed them¡ªthe Greatest War God of the Celestial Court!

    "Madness! Sheer madness!"

    Atop the Celestial Thunder tform of the Nine Thunders Arena, Gu Zhenxiao, the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General, looked out over the frenzy of the entire Thunder Department, his heart trembling wildly, plunging him into deep anxiety.

    "Supreme General!" Lightning Lord Bo Hong turned pale and said in panic, "We have offended him, and now he has be the lifeblood of the Thunder Department, the darling of the Emperor, what should we do?"

    Gu Zhenxiao gritted his teeth and said, "What can we do? Nod and bow for now, and when we meet him privately, we must kneel before him. With the return of the Nine Thunders Sovereign as well, we can have the Sovereign lead, seeking Lu Yao¡¯s forgiveness."

    Beside him, Bai Duomented, "His current status is merely that of the Immortal Tournament''s Champion and a Rank 4 Thunder Emissary. Technically, he is not yet ranked higher than me or Bo Hong. Is it really necessary?"

    His children had been killed; naturally, it was difficult for him to ept this situation.

    "What are you thinking? The title and rank are just his surface roles. While Rank 3 might be our end point, can you imagine the future that awaits him? What do we have topare? We must sincerely grovel to have a way out. Even after the death of Ster Margrave Feng, not a bubble was seen; what are we inparison?" Bo Hong said.

    Bai Duo could only bow his head and sigh, internally epting the reality.

    In fact, the one most panicked was Gu Zhenxiao, for he had once coveted Yun Xiao''s Sword Bone, something that could not be easily forgiven.

    So, he was wracking his head on how best to grovel.

    "Cao Sheng has made a fortune this time! His luck is truly astounding!" Bo Hong recalled this and felt even more disgruntled.

    "It''s hard to say; he never really believed in his foster son, and Lu Yao holds no affection for him. On the other hand, Cao Shuo, who threw herself over to himpletely, really has an eye for the right bets. Now that Lu Yao returns in triumph, she is the one who has gained the most," Bai Duo said.

    "Indeed." Bo Hong couldn''t help but sneakily nce at Gu Zhenxiao and noticed his expression darkening further.

    This was the woman he had set his sights on. Now, not only was she gone, but he had to bow to a youngster who had cuckolded him. Just thinking about it was excruciating.

    "By the way," Bo Hong whispered to Gu Zhenxiao, "did Cao Sheng send his sister to the mortal realm? Has she returned?"

    "It''s her first time receiving incense offerings, how could it be so quick?" Gu Zhenxiao shook his head.

    Bo Hong frowned slightly, saying, "I remember when the Nine Thunders Sovereign forcefully ordered Cao Shuo to receive the offerings, Lu Yao wasn''t as influential as he is now. Now that he returns in full glory, if he finds out the Nine Thunders Sovereign pressured Cao Shuo, could that be problematic? Should we bring Cao Shuo back?"

    "Bring her back? No need. When Lu Yao returns, the Nine Thunders Sovereign should exin everything clearly. Cao Shuo isn¡¯t in any danger, Lu Yao doesn¡¯t need to rush," Gu Zhenxiao replied.

    Bo Hong expressed his concern, "This young man''s ambition reaches the skies; I fear he won''t like it if his woman was forced into doing something against her will. This could strain his rtionship with the Nine Thunders Sovereign."

    "That won¡¯t happen!" Gu Zhenxiao became serious, "This young man hase far, he surely understands the significance of incense offerings to the Celestial Court. A dignified Rank 4 Heavenly Officer not receiving offerings? That¡¯s preposterous. The Nine Thunders Sovereign isn¡¯t coercing Cao Shuo; he¡¯s helping her!"

    Bai Duo nodded and added, "Indeed. Incense offerings are the greatest honor of the Celestial Court. Anyone who shirks them stands against the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm."

    Bo Hong sorted through his thoughts and smiled, "You''re right, and besides, Lu Yao just ascended to the Rank 4; maybe he¡¯ll be receiving offerings in a few days himself."

    "Hmm..." Gu Zhenxiao looked out over the boiling Thunder Department, and solemnly added, "The issue of beliefs is the most severe in the cultivation world. If anyone dares to defy the heavens and refuse the offerings, no matter how talented, even if they are a Rank 1 Sovereign, they will not be forgiven!"

 Chapter 640: Triple Murder Shakes the Celestial Court!

    Chapter 640: Triple Murder Shakes the Celestial Court!

    "Home atst!" When the Nine Thunders Divine Ark sliced through the skyline of the Thunder Department, a deafening roar of cheers thundered across the heavens and earth.

    The whole Thunder Department was like a stormy sea of thunder.

    Yun Xiao stood at the prow of the ship, his gaze sweeping across thend aglow with lightning, where figures thronged every inch.

    Their eyes burned with fervor as they raised their arms in shouts of triumph.

    It was indeed the vessel of the Nine Thunders Sovereign, yet now, the name Lu Yao boomed like thunder, exploding again and again!

    In those faces, there was a frenzy of devotion for Yun Xiao!

    The Thunder Department was a group of hot-headed, prideful people, oppressed and humiliated, desperate for a genius like Yun Xiao to breathe fire for their vengeance.

    "Wee back, the Champion of the Immortal Tournament! Wee, Rank 4 Thunder Emissary, Lu Yao!"

    A title of honor and position of authority rallied millions of Immortals of the Thunder Department to embrace Yun Xiao as one of their own!Many who had once criticized him were among the crowd, including the young talents from the Grand Firmament Academy.

    Yun Xiao had once infuriated many in the Thunder Department upon his arrival.

    Now, those who had once sought to crush Yun Xiao, including the younger generation elites like Gu Zhenshi, Man Huo, and the others, were all subdued!

    Yun Xiao''s stature in their hearts soared.

    The tale of his estrangement from his father, the Chaos Sovereign, also became a hot topic in the Thunder Department!

    Undoubtedly, this was Yun Xiao''s most exalted moment in the Thunder Department!

    "How I wish my master could see this," Yun Xiao mused inwardly.

    Liu Mumu was a Rank 8 Arbiter Commander, and she had once aspired to the Thunder Department.

    "Perhaps in a few days, I might be able to bring my master and Miss Yu back to the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao thought.

    After his victory in the Immortal Tournament, his status had risen to such heights that everything seemed to flow smoothly.

    It felt like reaching the pinnacle of the world!

    From stepping back onto the sacrednd of the Thunder Department to soaring towards the Nine Thunders Arena, his journey was a triumphant return, a procession of homage from the multitudes.

    The Nine Thunders Divine Ark deliberately slowed, allowing many Immortals of the Thunder Department to witness Yun Xiao at the prow.

    Truly, it was a sight of limitless grandeur!

    "We''ve arrived."

    Only when the ship reached the Nine Thunders Arena did it finally decelerate ande to a halt.

    Ahead of the divine ark, tens of thousands of officials eagerly awaited!

    Rank 2 Heavenly Officers, like Gu Zhenxiao and Man Zhan, Rank 3 Heavenly Officers including Thunder Dukes and Lightning Duchess, over 60 Rank 4 Thunder Emissaries, and thousands of Rank 5 Heavenly Officers, and over 8,000 Rank 6 Heavenly Officers, all were present in full array!

    "Congrattions to the Nine Thunders Sovereign! Congrattions to the Champion of the Immortal Tournament!"

    These high-ranking officials, glowing with radiant smiles, represented the entire Thunder Department, weing back a hero!

    Each face sparkled with vitality!

    With the Nine Thunders Sovereign himself present, this was undoubtedly the mostplete gathering of the Thunder Department personnel ever.

    "Follow me." The Nine Thunders Sovereign himself, smiling, spoke to Yun Xiao before leading the way off the ship.

    Even Yun Yin dared not step forward to usurp Yun Xiao''s ce!

    Yun Xiao''s position, just behind the Nine Thunders Sovereign, signified his supreme standing within the Thunder Department!

    Below one, above millions!

    "Your Majesty!"

    Tens of thousands of top celestial officials saluted in unison.

    "Is the Thunder Feast ready?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign asked.

    This was the highest standard celebration feast in the Thunder Department, open only to Heavenly Officers of Rank 6 and above. In a frontier city like Sky Soaring City, fewer than ten had the privilege to attend.

    "It''s ready! However, due to the urgency, about 1,200 from 80 cities have yet to arrive. They are expected within three hours, and then all officials of the Rank 6 and above in our jurisdiction should be present. Do we wait for them?" Man Zhan asked. He was the Five Directions Barbaric Supreme Thunder General, the third highest Rank 2 Heavenly Officer of the Thunder Department.

    "No rush. We can wait three hours. Our Champion has been through a great battle and needs some rest," the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied with a smile.

    The inclusion of celestial officials from all around the jurisdiction in this celebration feast highlighted its high importance.

    Everyone understood, this was the Thunder Department''s way of affirming their stance to Lu Yao!

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign said with a smile to Yun Xiao, "From now on, the Thunder Department is your home! We are all your family!"

    The message was clear; even if the Chaos Sovereign disowned Yun Xiao and looked down on him, the Thunder Department would not!

    "Thank you, and thanks to all my colleagues," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Shall we return to the Cao Immortal Manor to rest first?" Gu Suwan asked softly, standing beside him

    Yun Xiao pressed his lips together and nced at the tens of thousands of celestial officials before him. "I''m going to visit the Soaring Thunder Hall first."

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign, anticipating this, chuckled lightly. "I just heard that Lil Cao has descended to the mortal realm."

    At these words, Yun Xiao''s calm demeanor tightened, and a sharpness flickered in his eyes. He stared at the Nine Thunders Sovereign and asked slowly, "What would she be doing in the mortal realm at this time?"

    "She''s been stagnant in her cultivation for too long; she must have gone to gather incense offerings," the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied softly.

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao''s expression chilled. "Did she leave before or after sending the talisman?"

    "Why does that matter?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign responded coolly.

    "It matters greatly. I wouldn''t want to think that you deceived me under the auspices of the Divine Gateway," Yun Xiao said, his gaze piercing.

    Their exchange was not private; all the nearby grandees of the Thunder Department could hear them.

    Yun Xiao''s forthrightness in speaking to the Nine Thunders Sovereign sent a shock through them, silencing any thoughts of interjection.

    "Lu Yao," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said gravely, looking intently at Yun Xiao. "Indeed, about the matter of incense offerings, because Cao Shuo was uncooperative for a long time, I had her brother enforce it. I did this for her benefit, as well as yours. If this displeases you, there''s little more I can say."

    After a pause, he continued earnestly, "I am truly trying to help you. Cao Shuo is a rebellious girl; if she continues this way, it could lead to disaster. I resolved her ideological issues to help her be a better person, someone worthy of you."

    His exnation, however, only fueled the fire in Yun Xiao''s heart, sending his temper ring!

    He knew he needed to restrain himself, or else he would reveal his hand to the entire Celestial Court too soon!

    This was Yun Xiao''s greatest moment of restraint!

    After quelling his rage, Yun Xiao pursed his lips and nodded. "Fine, I understand. Just give me their location, and I''ll find them."

    "That''s not easy to say; the stars of the mortal realms are vast, and a talisman can''t reach that far. I don''t know their whereabouts," the Nine Thunders Sovereign admitted.

    "Don''t worry, Lu Yao," Yun Yin reassured him. "Thunder Emissary Cao has her brother''s protection, and he''s strong. She''s definitely safe."

    "Right, and judging by the time, they should be back within an hour," Gu Zhenxiao added with a forced smile.

    That is to say, what was meant to happen had already happened!

    At that moment, Yun Xiao felt a scalding rage burning in his throat. He could bear it no longer! Just as his mind began to seethe, the Nine Thunders Sovereign abruptly received a talisman.

    Upon reading it, his face turned ashen.

    "Little Nine!" The Nine Thunders Sovereign let out a heart-wrenching roar and transformed into a bolt of lightning, leaping aboard the Nine Thunders Divine Ark.

    With a thunderous roar, the ship sted off towards the heart of the Celestial Court, vanishing from sight in the blink of an eye.

    "What''s going on?"

    "I don''t know!"

    The tens of thousands of high-ranking officials of the Thunder Department exchanged puzzled looks.

    Why had the Nine Thunders Sovereign suddenly lostposure?

    As confusion reigned among the Immortals, Yun Yin, Gu Zhenxiao, and Man Zhan, among others, received talismans from the direction of the Divine Gateway.

    The moment they saw the talismans, their faces changed dramatically.

    "What happened, Supreme General?" the crowd asked anxiously.

    With a voice filled with sorrow, Gu Zhenxiao responded, "The Sixth Prince, Nine Kites, and the Taisui Sage have been murdered within the Taisui Sigil Pce¡ªspirit and body both destroyed!"

    "What?!"

    This revtion caused a sensation even greater than the death of the Seventh Princess!

    The status of the Sixth Prince was no less significant than that of the Seventh Princess.

    Crucially, Prince Zhen and Nine Kites were about to be married!

    And to die in the Taisui Sigil Pce!

    This incident had unfolded right after the Immortal Tournament!

    "Is there news of the perpetrator?"

    "Could it be the Chaos Sovereign trying to get revenge after being humiliated?" the Immortals urgently inquired.

    Yun Yin''s throat burned as he spoke with a trembling voice, "The murderer is the resurrected Seventh Princess, Divine Dawn!"

    "Impossible¡­"

    That name left everyone breathless.

    Death, resurrection, fratricide...

    What in the heavens had happened to the Seventh Princess?

    In an instant, the jubnt cheers of the tens of thousands in the Thunder Department faded into a stunned silence. Everyone looked around, utterly bewildered.

    Yun Yin took a deep breath and said, "Regardless, the entire Celestial Court will undoubtedly investigate this matter thoroughly. Our jewel of the Thunder Department has also perished because of it¡­"

    The atmosphere had been one of celebration; now, with the death of Nine Kites, everything had changed.

    Should the victory feast still proceed?

    "Let''s rest for now and wait for the Nine Thunder Sovereign''s instructions," Yun Yin dered.

    As for Gu Zhenxiao, Bo Hong, and the others, with the Nine Thunders Sovereign absent and no one to lead, they dared not speak further, fearful of drawing Yun Xiao''s attention.

    "Lu Yao, you¡­" Yun Yin turned back to look at him, his expression peculiar.

    He knew from Gu Sutao that this young man had a close rtionship with the resurrected Seventh Princess.

    Many in the Thunder Department were aware of it, though it hadn''t spread beyond.

    "I will return to the Soaring Thunder Hall and wait for Thunder Emissary Cao''s return. Inform me when she does," Yun Xiao said, then turned around and left.

    He had been on the verge of an outburst of anger just moments before.

    The sudden murder by Divine Dawn had interrupted his wrath, allowing him a moment of rity.

    Upon reflection, without knowing the full circumstances of Cao Shuo, acting rashly could jeopardize everything.

    "The Chaos Sovereign probably won''t concern himself with the matter of the incense offerings. It''s just Lil Xi and me standing on the side of the mortal realms. It''s best if one of us remains in the light and the other in the shadows to maintain a margin of error. She chose to stand in the light and bear the brunt; I should use this opportunity to do more..."

    Rather than bing a target like her¡ª

    "Let''s wait and see!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 641: Two High Criminals of the Celestial Court!

    Chapter 641: Two High Criminals of the Celestial Court!

    Yun Xiao returned to the Hall of Soaring Thunder.

    Apanying him were Gu Suwan and Yun Yin, who stayed close as if to guard him personally.

    However, Yun Xiao was in a foul mood and spoke little to them.

    Upon reaching the Eight Symbols Guard Pavilion, he secluded himself in his cultivation chamber.

    Meanwhile, Gu Suwan and Yun Yin chatted idly in the courtyard.

    Gu Suwan''s face bore a mncholy expression as she sighed, "Nine Kites was such a fine girl, destined for greatness. What a pity."

    "Who knows if that so-called Seventh Princess is genuine?" Yun Yin replied coldly.

    Just as they touched on this topic, Gu Suwan received a flying talisman.

    After a nce, she said, "The Celestial Court has reached a verdict on this matter.""What did they say?" Yun Yin asked.

    "The Celestial Court dered that the reborn princess is not herself but a devil from beyond the Great Dao Celestial Realm, impersonating her," Gu Suwan said grimly.

    "That doesn''t sound right. How could a devil bypass the steps and fly directly to the Divine Gateway, killing two Great Horned Immortals?" Yun Yin frowned.

    Gu Suwan shook her head. "That''s unknown. Perhaps they found a loophole in the Divine Gateway, and it''s a serious issue."

    "What has the Celestial Court decided to do with this impostor princess?" Yun Yin asked.

    Gu Suwan replied, "She''s been dered a Divine Heaven grade felon with a bounty of 1,000,000,000 True Immortal Jades on her head. The entire Great Dao Celestial Realm has been locked down, and the pce guards are scouring the area."

    "Is this decree directly from the Emperor and Empress Dowager?" Yun Yin was astonished.

    "Yes." Gu Suwan nodded

    Yun Xiao, standing at the entrance of the cultivation chamber, asked, "What''s a Divine Heaven grade felon?"

    "Common, Vast, Supreme, Dao, and Divine! A Divine Heaven grade felon represents the highest order of criminal in the history of the Celestial Court, a designation that hasn''t been used in thousands of years. To y a Prince within the Heavenly Pce is a provocation against the entirety of the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Gu Suwan exined solemnly.

    Yun Xiao shook his head after listening. Returning to the cultivation chamber, he muttered, "That girl''s gone mad, just as impulsive as ever, no subtlety, just straight into the fray."

    He and Divine Dawn, alike in their fiery temperaments, were like sparks to tinder when together¡ªfiery and fierce. Yet, Yun Xiao, beyond his ferocity, also cherished the art of cunning, always timing his strikes with precision, hiding his true intentions until the moment to strike lethally arrived.

    Divine Dawn, elevated above the fray, believed solely in strength. She disdained guile and was unskilled in its arts. This was tied to the intrinsic nature of her being an incarnation of transcending cmity. It was precisely because of this that she sometimes found herself outmatched by the shadowy machinations and conspiracies of the mortal realm, perhaps a w in her very nature. But to be honest, Yun Xiao cherished her bravery and her candid, passionate spirit. If she were as duplicitous as he was, she wouldn''t be quite so endearing.

    "Well, let''s hope she continues on," Yun Xiao mused.

    After all, she wasn''t just any incarnation of transcending cmity; she was a reinforced version, and Yun Xiao believed in her resilience.

    "I earned the title of Champion of the Immortal Tournament and received a substantial reward of 100,000,000 True Immortal Jades. To kill her would yield 1,000,000,000! I suppose the Emperor and Empress Dowager are truly furious now¡­"

    As for Nine Kites, Yun Xiao knew his own heart well. It was normal for life to bring some minor romantic entanglements.

    But he hade to the Celestial Court with a purpose, with aspirations. If he imed to fight for the good of all yet dallied with a girl already promised to another man, wouldn''t that make him a beast?

    "Perhaps she might have been good, had it not been for the thoroughly corrupt environment of the Celestial Court."

    That, of course, was merely spection. After all, he couldn''t possiblye to know everyone; there simply wasn''t time.

    Yun Xiao believed in letting actions speak for themselves. Some deeds, once done, stood irrevocable, regardless of their reasons. If retribution came, it had to be epted.

    The lives of mere mortals were lives nheless!

    Now, within the Hall of Soaring Thunder, he awaited a verdict also concerning the incense offerings.

    About half an hourter, Gu Suwan received another flying talisman. With aplex look at Yun Xiao, she said, "Old Cao has returned."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside a ck underground pce in the Cao Immortal Manor, the burly, bald General Cao paced the courtyard with a grim expression. His steps resounded with heavy thuds, signaling someone trapped beneath the ground.

    "Cao Sheng!"

    Before long, dozens of Immortals descended. All of them were high officials of the Thunder Department, starting from Rank 4. Among them were the three Supreme Generals.

    Gu Zhenxiao, looking particrly impatient, began with a re, "How is Cao Shuo doing?"

    Cao Sheng pointed towards the underground pce and replied, "I''ve got her chained with the Thunder Duke Chains. She''s still causing a fuss!"

    His expression was gloomy, clearly exasperated.

    Yun Yin''s face darkened. "She really prefers death over epting the incense offerings? All your force was in vain, and the Crown Prince caught you in the act?!"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Cao Sheng sighed heavily. "Exactly! It was awful luck! She''s seriously deranged! I tried to force the incense offerings on her. But unfortunately the Crown Prince walked in on us!"

    "What''s the situation now?" Gu Zhenxiao asked with a somber face.

    "She''s utterly doomed," Cao Sheng exhaled.

    "How doomed? Speak clearly!" Yun Yin said impatiently.

    Cao Sheng looked up, his voice hoarse, "The Crown Prince was furious. He stopped her from taking the incense offerings and charged her with <em>Treason against the Heavens</em>, ssified her as a Dao Heaven grade high criminal, and ordered me to bring her back to the Thunder Department for execution by the Thunder Immortal Execution to set an example internally!"

    Hearing this, Gu Zhenxiao felt a darkness before his eyes. "That seals her fate then, caught as a textbook case! It''s a disgrace to our entire Thunder Department!"

    "Did he say when to carry it out?" Yun Yin asked, looking grim.

    "The Crown Prince ordered that as soon as she''s back in the Thunder Department, you three Supreme Generals are to execute her immediately. However, this requires the Thunder Immortal Formation. Should we consult the Nine Thunders Sovereign?" Cao Sheng asked.

    His demeanor and tone clearly showed he hadpletely written off his sister.

    A formidable Rank 4 Thunder Emissary, due to her ideological ws, had be a Dao Heaven grade high criminal, even charged with treason against the heavens, nearly obliterating her entire lineage... Cao Sheng was so infuriated by the whole affair he himself wanted to end her!

    Yun Yin exchanged looks with Gu Zhenxiao and Man Zhan.

    "Alright," Yun Yin said. "Send a flying talisman to consult the Nine Thunders Sovereign immediately. If he replies, we execute her without dy."

    "And maybe ask if the celebration banquet is still on!" Man Zhan added.

    But Gu Zhenxiao, giving Yun Yin a probing look, asked softly, "The Crown Prince said to execute her immediately. Are you consulting the Nine Thunders Sovereign because you fear Lu Yao?"

    "Celebration banquet? Lu Yao? What''s going on?" Cao Sheng paused in confusion.

    Bo Hong stepped forward and exined Lu Yao''s heaven-defying feats in the Immortal Tournament.

    "That''s too exaggerated... insane..." After hearing this, Cao Sheng''s face twitched slightly.

    Yun Yin sighed. "We were just saying how your sister had struck it lucky in this life, but it turns out she had a grave illness that ruined everything for herself."

    "I''ve already informed Gu Suwan," Cao Sheng said through clenched teeth.

    As his words fell, Yun Xiao, Yun Yin, and Gu Suwan entered the Cao Immortal Manor.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s expression was grim, an aura of authority around him as he entered, parting the crowd of Thunder Department officials.

    "Where is she?" he said with his gaze fixed on Cao Sheng.

    "Lu Yao, Cao Shuo is safe for now, don''t get agitated, let me exin everything." Yun Yin, among the three Supreme Generals and having no open conflicts with Yun Xiao, stepped forward to mediate the tension.

    "Speak." Hearing the vibrations from the dungeon below, Yun Xiao knew that the Thunder Emissary was still alive.

    Yun Yin recounted smoothly what Cao Sheng had reported earlier.

    After finishing, he looked earnestly at Yun Xiao and said, "Lu Yao, Cao Shuo is now a traitor charged with the gravest sins in the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Don''t let feelings cloud your judgment. The Crown Prince''s decree is absolute, nothing can change that! Please, don''t destroy everything you have for a woman who¡¯s not worth it!"

    He expected Yun Xiao might lose control. However, the young man nodded profoundly.

    "Supreme General, rest assured, my thoughts are very clear, I have no issues. The celestialws are always in my heart."

    "That''s good, that''s good." Yun Yin sighed in relief, patting his shoulder. "Frankly, she''s much older than you and far less talented. Such a woman is merely using her charm to seduce young men like you. She truly doesn''t deserve someone like you."

    "That makes sense." Yun Xiao smiled slightly, then looked towards the dungeon door, "You all wait for the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s reply. I''ll go in and bid her farewell."

 Chapter 642: Lu Yao, You Wont Die a Good Death!

    Chapter 642: Lu Yao, You Won''t Die a Good Death!

    <em>THUD! THUD! </em>Yun Xiao''s footsteps were heavy as he descended the steps into the depths. With his approach, the sounds that had filled the underground pce gradually subsided.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao pushed open a massive stone door, its surface carved with magical inscriptions, revealing a room where lightning flickered menacingly.

    At the far end of the chamber, a tall, striking woman with curly violet hair knelt on the ground, her slender body bound tightly by chains of lightning. These chains, embedded deep into her flesh, carved trails of blood across her skin, leaving her paralyzed and unable to move.

    Such restraints had drained the color from her skin and left her looking frail. Her once luscious, wavy hair was now disheveled, and her ss-like dress was crumpled and stained with blood.

    It was hard to imagine that this once radiant Thunder Emissary Cao, now a pitiful prisoner trapped in this dungeon, had lost all her former glory and seemed barely alive.

    With a sudden movement, she lifted her head, her dull eyes sparking with resilient shes of lightning.

    Outside the stone door, the celestial-faced young man, dressed in a majestic outfit with a tinum crown, glowing white robe, and formidable boots, stood unmatched in appearance.

    On opposite sides of the door, their fates could not have been more different.

    Thunder Emissary Cao had fallen to hell, while the young man had ascended to the clouds above, leaving her to only gaze up at him.The violet-haired beauty stared at him nkly, biting her red lips, and said, "I heard the conversation you had outside."

    "And?" Yun Xiao stood at the doorway, not entering, calmly observing her disheveled state.

    "I didn''t realize your life was soplicated, nor did I expect you to achieve such great deeds for the Thunder Department. Congrattions, you''ve gotten your revenge in just a few days, and now, in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, it seems no one can threaten you anymore," Thunder Emissary Cao remarked, a slow smile spreading across her lips, genuinely pleased for Yun Xiao.

    "Indeed." Yun Xiao nodded, then casually added, "So, you also heard my response to the three Supreme Generals regarding your situation?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "I heard, all too clearly," the violet-haired woman struggled to shift into a morefortable position, but the Thunder Duke Chains were too tight, and she could only kneel in front of Yun Xiao.

    "What are you thinking?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Thunder Emissary Cao shot him a nce and said, "Enough with the act. I know you''re hurting inside, still trying to find a way to save me."

    Yun Xiao paused, surprised. "Do you really believe that?"

    "Get out!" She breathed deeply, her gaze intent upon him. "Kid, you finally have such a future ahead of you, and I am but a freak cast out by the world. My plight is of my own making, not yours. You don''t need to ruin your prospects for someone like me. To have shared a fleeting bond with you, I am content; it feels like a life well-lived. Let this be the end of us! You can leave now."

    "No, that''s not it." Yun Xiao looked at her, bewildered yet amused. "Have you always been this confident?"

    His tone was dismissive, as cold as one from a frozen cave. This caught her off guard, and she asked confusedly, "What do you mean?"

    "If you don''t understand, I''ll make it in." Yun Xiao adjusted his robe, ncing at her lightly. "From the beginning, it was all just using you, as a stepping stone. Any joy was just about conquering you as if you were prey. Now that you''re of no use to me, not a single hair of mine would I sacrifice for you."

    "Lu Yao!" Thunder Emissary Cao''s anger surged, her eyes swiftly reddening. She stared at him fiercely, biting her lip. "Even if you have other motives, must you speak so cruelly?"

    "Why not? Don''t be so fragile, Thunder Emissary Cao. Did you really think you were worthy of me?" After saying this, his gaze drifted from her face to her bound form, and he smirked, "Do you know what I''m thinking right now?"

    She watched him with bloodshot eyes, silent.

    "You''re quite striking, such a fine body to be destroyed by thunder soon. It''s a pity. How about onest taste before the Nine Thunders Sovereign responds, while you''re still warm?"

    Hearing this, her eyes filled with blood, and she screamed at him, "Get out!!"

    "If you won''t give in, why the fuss?" Yun Xiao looked bored, turned around, and closed the stone door behind him.

    "You!" Her face framed by fallen hair, she stared nkly at the cold stone door, then slowly copsed to the ground, curling up and beginning to cry.

    Tears streamed down copiously, more than she had ever shed in her lifetime.

    "Scoundrel! All of them, scoundrels!"

    She was resentful, defiant.

    "Lu Yao, you won''t die a good death!"

    She continued to struggle, pounding the ground and cursing, screaming over and over.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>BANG! </em>Yun Xiao emerged from the underground pce, his face clouded with frustration. Looking up, he found the Thunder Department''s high officials staring at him, all wearing expressions of astonishment.

    The pce behind him shook violently, apanied by the hysterical curses of Thunder Emissary Cao aimed at him.

    "What''s going on?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Nothing. Nothing at all," Yun Yin replied.

    Despite his words, the others still looked at Yun Xiao rather oddly.

    "What did you do to her?" Cao Sheng asked casually.

    "Nothing much. Shemitted a treason against the heavens; that''s her own doing. I said I couldn''t help, but she insisted on ming me," Yun Xiao responded nonchntly.

    "That woman has lost her mind, her brain''s diseased. Lu Yao, you really shouldn''t bother with her," Gu Suwan quickly said.

    "I thought she was quite clever before, but turns out she''s just foolish," Yun Xiao remarked, then turned to the Moon Sword Goddess. "Master, you were her senior sister. Did you never notice her madness before?"

    The Moon Sword Goddess replied, "Thunder Emissary Cao was always undisciplined and reckless. This time, getting caught red-handed by the Crown Prince was indeed her own fault."

    "As a Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court, especially those Rank 6 and above, if one''s thoughts are not righteous, nobody can save them. Nobody is allowed to cross the lines set by the Celestial Court, not even a princess," Yun Yin stated inly.

    Hisst statement wasden with meaning.

    The tale of the Seventh Princess'' demise, her rebirth, and subsequent bounty as a Divine Heaven grade criminal... details and reasons for which some had already guessed.

    Yun Yin''s words were also meant for Yun Xiao. He knew that Yun Xiao, a youth of fiery blood and noble spirit, kept inquiring about Thunder Emissary Cao, surely not out of disinterest.

    Now that matters had escted, whether he cared or not wasn''t important; what mattered was making the right choices under pressure.

    At least in Yun Yin''s view, Yun Xiao''s current choices were the correct ones.

    Thunder Emissary Cao''s anguished curses and resistance said it all.

    Her cries and shouts at this moment were heartbreakingly tragic.

    What woulde of Thunder Emissary Cao''s fate was now dependent on a decree from the Nine Thunders Sovereign!

    The Thunder Department''s high officials all knew that in matters of incense offerings, the Nine Thunders Sovereign would not contradict the Crown Prince. The confirmation was merely following due process, especially since the prince had ordered the use of the Thunder Immortal Execution this time!

    The immortals waited silently at the Cao Immortal Manor.

    Yun Xiao didn''t leave either; he asked about the celebration feast, which Yun Yin said was also pending confirmation from the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    About half an hour passed before a flying talisman descended from the sky!

    Yun Yin hurriedly caught it, nced over the contents, and then announced to all present, "The celebration feast will proceed as nned. Additionally, Cao Shuo will be paraded through the streets for an hour before being executed at the feast itself."

    Parading, execution, and celebration¡ªall rolled into one, none overlooked.

    "It seems the Nine Thunders Sovereign sees this as a sort of vengeance for Little Nine. Punishing Cao Shuo is also a stark warning to anyone harboring dissenting thoughts," Gu Zhenxiaomented.

    "To parade Cao Shuo through the streets, we will not disclose the specifics of the incense offerings; merely a reminder to those with intentions will suffice. To the people of the Thunder Department, proim that Cao Shuo colluded with foreign Devil Immortals. The evidence was irrefutable, and she was convicted of treason by the Crown Prince!" Yun Yin instructed.

    "Understood."

    Yun Yin nced at the sky, noting the time. "It''s about time. Let the Rank 6 Heavenly Officers take their seats at the feast and prepare for a grand celebration. Meanwhile..."

    He paused, looking towards the bald General Cao. "Cao Sheng, you will oversee the parading of Cao Shuo, dere her crimes, and ensure she is delivered to the Nine Thunders Arena on time."

    "By yourmand!" Cao Sheng understood that by making him carry out this task, Yun Yin was helping him to sever all familial ties with the criminal through an act of righteous severance.

    Compared to that, what was the mere fleeting connection that Yun Xiao shared with her?

    Yun Yin was closely monitoring Yun Xiao''s psyche, with everything he did serving as a continuous reminder.

    He knew very well that if this young man stood against the Celestial Court, it would be a significant headache.

    For now, regardless of what was said, Yun Xiao''s expression remained calm.

    By his side, Gu Suwan and the Moon Sword Goddess were also constantly disparaging Cao Shuo, subtly influencing Yun Xiao.

    Meanwhile, Cao Sheng summoned a chariot and cage drawn by oxen of the Thunder Department. He personally went down to fetch Cao Shuo, throwing her into the cage and binding her tightly within.

    "What are you doing?!" Cao Shuo''s voice trembled as she asked.

    "Parading you through the streets before your execution, letting all of the Thunder Department witness your crimes, to the disgrace of our ancestors!" Cao Sheng replied coldly.

    "You, Blockhead Cao, may you die a horrible death!" Cao Shuo raged from within the cage, her eyes swirling with bloody tears, her body thrashing wildly, shaking the chariot with a thunderous mor.

    "The eternal stench of disgrace is yours," Cao Sheng responded coldly.

    "It''s you who stink! Every drop of blood in you is sinful! Every one of you is a sinner against the heavens, and you will all meet your retribution!" Cao Shuo cried out in despair.

    "Shut her up," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "Beast! A beast in human skin¡ªthat''s what you are, Lu Yao!" Cao Shuo red at him, overwhelmed with despair.

    Yun Xiao waved his hand impatiently, saying to Cao Sheng, "Take her away."

    Cao Sheng gave Yun Xiao a deep look, saying no more.

    Inside the chariot, the violet-haired woman continued to re at Yun Xiao. Even though she could no longer curse, everyone knew she had cursed Yun Xiao a thousand times over.

    Once she hadpletely gone, the courtyard finally quieted down.

    Gu Zhenxiao then turned to Yun Xiao, exhrated, "Gentlemen, it''s time to head to the Nine Thunders Arena. In front of our ancestors, we shall celebrate the divine ascension of our Thunder Department''s young champion!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    An hour passed in the blink of an eye.

    At the Nine Thunders Arena, the originally vast cloud of thunder had divided into tens thousand smaller clouds!

    Each cloud bore a seat and a table. On these tables, a feast and fine wine were already in ce.

    Indeed, this was the scene of the celebration banquet.

    Nearly all the notable officials from the Thunder Department''s jurisdiction had taken their seats.

    The delicacies wereid before them, but they stood instead, all eyes turned towards the center of the arena, where thergest thundercloud hovered, and the triumphant champion had just arrived.

    Gu Suwan and the Moon Sword Goddess were meant to sit on other clouds, but Yun Xiao had insisted they stay, iming, "This is the proudest moment of your foster son and disciple¡¯s life. You ought to be here to support him, right?"

    After all, he had no other family in the Celestial Court.

    Unable to refuse him, Gu Suwan and the Moon Sword Goddess stayed, even though it wasn''t quite proper.

    And the three Supreme Generals seated on the nearby clouds didn''t mind at all!

    As Yun Xiao took his seat, the 10,000 officials around him shouted in unison, "Congrattions to the Immortal Tournament Champion!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 643: Divine Punishment Descends (1)!

    Chapter 643: Divine Punishment Descends (1)!

    Their voices merged, strong enough to shake the heavens, carrying far and wide.

    "The celebration is underway!"

    Millions of Immortals from the Thunder Department, though not qualified to re-enter the Nine Thunders Arena, were exhrated even from a distance.

    On the streets and atop the high buildings surrounding the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, crowds filled the spaces, all watching eagerly.

    Nine Kites was dead, but her passing did not dampen the spirits of the Immortals of the Thunder Department!

    The process by which Yun Xiao became the champion of the Immortal Tournament was explosive!

    Those of the Thunder Department who witnessed it were bursting with pride; their veins throbbed with excitement. Their standing in the Celestial Court had risen, and each Thunder Emissary now walked tall, looking down upon others through their nostrils.

    This was glory!

    Now, every one of the millions in the Thunder Department was wildly enthusiastic about Yun Xiao.While the 10,000 Rank 6 or above Heavenly Officers of the Thunder Department celebrated in the Nine Thunders Arena, others joined from their homes.

    In this overwhelming joy, the only discord was the public shaming that drew the ire of the masses.

    "Have you heard? Thunder Emissary Caomitted a Dao Heaven grade crime, verified personally by the Crown Prince and was marked as a high criminal. She''s about to be brought to the celebration to face the Thunder Immortal Execution."

    "You''re out of the loop. I just saw Thunder Emissary Cao being paraded through the streets, a spectacle of disgrace!"

    "Guys, I''m unsure about this. Thunder Emissary Cao and Lu Yao..."

    "Don''t overthink it. Their past affair was all Thunder Emissary Cao''s doing. She preyed on the young Champion''s inexperience. He was unable to resist such temptation. She even tried to pull him into rebellion!"

    "Now they say Lu Yao has seen her true face and cut tiespletely! I heard that during her parade, Thunder Emissary Cao was sobbing, barely able to speak, but it sounded like she was cursing Lu Yao for not saving her."

    "Has she lost her mind? Shemits a crime against heaven, and our Champion, with a limitless future, should risk his life for her? No way!"

    ¡°Thunder Emissary Cao, foolish and foul,¡± murmured the multitudes of the Thunder Department.

    As the whispers grew, a procession made its way into the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    ¡°Look sharp! Her parade is ending, and she¡¯s being taken back to the Nine Thunders Arena for execution!¡±

    ¡°Word has it that three Supreme Generals willmence the celebration with Thunder Emissary Cao¡¯s execution!¡±

    ¡°The spectacle is unparalleled.¡±

    ¡°Lu Yao has made us in the Thunder Department stand tall; he¡¯s earned it!¡±

    ¡°To spare our Champion the heartache, I suggest the Supreme Generals send a bevy of beauties his way during the feast.¡±

    ¡°Ha! The young man has a taste for the finer things. Let¡¯s indulge him. A few more beauties by his side, and he¡¯ll soon forget the seductress of the Thunder Departmentpletely!¡±

    The entire Thunder Department buzzed with discussions, everyone merry and in high spirits, reveling in the joy of the day.

    Perhaps it was the most exhrating day in thousands of years for the Thunder Department!

    Everyone was overjoyed!

    The festivities were everywhere!

    At the Nine Thunders Arena, a historic celebration was brewing among the ranks of the 10,000 officials.

    ¡°Bring forth the criminal!¡±

    A roar like thunder tore through the air, drawing the attention of all present.

    Amidst the swirling thunderclouds and lightning, the imposing General Cao, dragging a disheveled woman with violet hair, approached the heart of the Nine Thunders Arena with a cold expression.

    The seductive allure of the violet-haired woman was gone. Bound by the Thunder Duke Chains, her delicate body was covered in bloodstains. The hour-long derision from the masses had dimmed her eyes.

    She had epted her fate. She knew better than anyone that her sins were etched deep into her spine. In this universe, no one could save her now. Death was her only refuge.

    Yet, more cruel than death was the despair in dying. To die without seeing a future!

    <em>BANG! </em>General Cao pushed her forward, making her kneel amidst the thunderclouds and lightning.

    Before her was Yun Xiao, surrounded by the thunderclouds, nked by the three Supreme Generals.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General, Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General, and Five Directions Barbaric Supreme Thunder General¡­ Each were towering figures, resembling gods of thunder.

    This was the inner circle, surrounded by Heavenly Officers of Rank 6 and above.

    Gu Zhenxiao stood and boomed like thunder, "Cao Shuo, before your execution, you are granted a chance to admit your wrongs and serve as a warning to future generations. Should you show some realization of your faults before death, the Thunder Department, in recognition of your past services, will grant you a dignified end."

    As he spoke, many among the gathered 10,000 officials recorded the moment with Projection Orbs¡ªa demand of the Crown Prince.

    These recordings were meant to shake the entire Celestial Court, striking at the hearts of those harboring improper thoughts, not just for private records but also captured by massive devices around the Nine Thunders Arena, documenting every detail of the event to serve as a warning.

    The activation of the Thunder Immortal Execution over the issue of incense offerings was unprecedented.

    The Thunder Immortal Execution was not instant pulverization but a cruelly slow execution process. Once targeted and encircled, the condemned would be slowly erased, reportedly as torturous as death by a thousand cuts.

    The condemned would remain conscious, witnessing their body''s gradual obliteration, enduring pain throughout the ordeal.

    And this ordeal was to unfold during the Thunder Department''s celebration feast.

    Why would the Nine Thunders Sovereign and the Crown Prince intertwine celebration with execution? inly, through the stark juxtaposition of joy and agony, they intended to show all dissenters the dire consequences of opposing the will of the Celestial Court.

    "Cao Shuo, confess your guilt!" Cao Sheng stood aloof, watching his sister from a high position with chilling detachment.

    "Confess!"

    The chant rose from 10,000 officials, a collective demonstration.

    Anyck of pressure was seen as a sign of wed thinking.

    For a moment, Cao Shuo felt the full weight of standing against the whole world.

    In that instant, she felt sorrow and fear, but as she lifted her head to see the indifferent faces around her, a surge of rage welled up within her!

    She had no desire to argue with these people.

    In that nightmarish moment, she fixed her gaze on the young man seated straight ahead. He was attended closely by two older beauties, his calm eyes observing her with an indifference that mirrored the Thunder Immortal Formation above¡ªutterly merciless and fiercely violent.

    "Lu Yao."

    Summoning all her strength, Cao Shuo scrutinized this young man, her parched lips trembling as she asked, "Your talents surpass those of ancient and modern times. You don¡¯t need incense offerings for an extraordinary path. So, I ask you, as beings of life and kin of humanity, when even animals do not consume their own kind, why do humans, the most enlightened of creatures, feast on human flesh and blood and dress up such acts as divine will¡­"

    From his elevated stance, Yun Xiao looked down calmly and said, "You are mistaken. The path to bing an Immortal is about transcending the mundane to achieve rebirth, a path of ascensions. Humans may hunt monkeys, and Immortals may govern mortal lives. If you cannot grasp such a simple truth, harboring only a bleeding heart, why pursue the path of immortality? Better you were a monkey, living in ignorance¡ªit suits you."

    "Well said!"

    Yun Xiao''s words resonated instantly among the 10,000 officials of the Thunder Department.

    A wave of vigorous apuse erupted!

    This deafening sound was, to Cao Shuo, the ultimate irony.

    She had thought perhaps the young man had some hidden plight, but with his words, her heart truly shattered.

    Life, ideals, destiny, her steadfastness¡ªcrumbled to dust in that instant.

    She couldn¡¯t hold back her tears, crying before the assembled crowd.

    "Anything else you wish to say?" Yun Xiao asked, gazing at her sorrow.

    "Nothing more, nothing left." Cao Shuo felt utterly defeated, as if already dead.

    "Then be on your way. In your next life, be born a monkey; you¡¯ll have no troubles then," Yun Xiao said, and then, unexpectedly, he chuckled.

    "Hahaha!"

    The 10,000 Immortals caught the joke in Yun Xiao''s words, andughter spread among them.

    "Our Champion really pushes ruthlessness to the limit!"

    "A true hardliner!"

    "Without being ruthless, how could one achieve so much?"

    At that moment, those 10,000 officials looked at Yun Xiao with fervent admiration, seeing in him a future leader of the Celestial Court, a paragon among Immortals.

    As Yun Xiao said his piece, and Cao Shuo had given up on life, the three Supreme Generals exchanged nces, sensing the time was right.

    "Is it time?" Gu Zhenxiao asked Yun Yin.

    "Hey, don''t you think Lu Yao has changed too drastically?" Yun Yin was still pondering the information Gu Sutao had reported about Yun Xiao.

    Allegedly, Lu Yao was the husband of the Seventh Princess!

    Now that Gu Sutao was dead, dispatched by Yun Yin''s own orders, no further verification was possible.

    "I think this is just human nature," Gu Zhenxiao responded.

    "Agreed!" Yun Yin said little more. But before this, he had discreetly sent a flying talisman to the Nine Thunders Sovereign about the rtionship between Lu Yao and the Seventh Princess.

    "Begin the execution!" Gu Zhenxiao roared.

    A hush fell over the masses as they stood and looked up at the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    Apart from the Nine Thunders Sovereign, the three Supreme Generals could also activate this celestial formation!

    "Thunder Department''s divine formation! Banish evil and purge the wicked!"

    The three Rank 2 Supreme Generals shouted in unison. Instantly, massive torrents of gold, silver, and ck lightning serpents erupted from them.

    "The show starts now!"

    Inside and outside the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, whether it was the 10,000 officials or the ordinary citizens of the Thunder Department, all were exhrated, their eyes wide with anticipation and hearts pounding.

    "Banish! Banish! Banish!"

    Deafening cries echoed from every corner of the Thunder Department. These Immortals did not know the true reasons for Cao Shuo''s punishment. But as lower-tier members of the Thunder Department witnessing the downfall of a high-ranking official, they vented their resentment towards the powerful without a second thought.

    At that moment, Cao Shuo was the center of the storm!

    Yun Xiao''s indifference, the dignity of the three Supreme Generals, theughter of the 10,000 officials, and the disdain of millions of citizens... all converged on her alone.

    Cao Shuo had given up, too weary to continue.

    "Forget it, life is but a dream; in the next life, I might as well be a monkey."

    Muttering to herself, tears fell like rain as she found the entire ordeal absurd, ridiculous, and sorrowful.

    She could change nothing! Merely by refusing to partake in the incense offerings, she had been cast to the opposite side of the world, yed by the hearts of millions!

    What more was there to do? All she could do was die! She just wanted it to be quick! Then, her misery would finally be over!

    And so, Cao Shuo knelt softly among the thunderclouds, raising her head to the sky.

 Chapter 644: Divine Punishment Descends (2)!

    Chapter 644: Divine Punishment Descends (2)!

    What Cao Shuo saw was the Supreme Evesting Nine Heavens Sovereign Thunder Immortal Formation that she had revered all her life. It represented her faith and the symbol of the Thunder Department''s solemn and just enforcement...

    And now, it was to obliterate her in divine punishment!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Gold, silver, and ck, three streaks of lightning soared from the Nine Thunders Arena into the clouds, merging into the celestial array.

    Amidst the shing lightning, the three Supreme Generals voiced the decree of the heavens¡ª

    "Supreme and evesting, the nine heavens uphold the realm! May thunder vanquish evil, and the righteous path shine eternal!"

    The Thunder Immortal Formation trembled, like a slumbering beast roaring through the ages, shaking the heavens and earth, awakening all.

    The celestial formation, with billions of thunderbolts swirling, formed a massive vortex. Endless lightning converged above the battlefield, exploding above the head of the Thunder Department¡¯s seductress!

    "Using a sledgehammer to crack a nut!"

    "Our Thunder Department is powerful and dominant!"The officialsughed heartily, seizing the opportunity to unleash their darkest desires, wildly mocking the beautiful, alluring woman they coveted but could never possess.

    Cao Shuo''s nickname hid many a man¡¯s desire but also included their superficial disdain for such dazzling women, to parade their own purity.

    <em>RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE! </em>The Thunder Immortal Formation boomed 30 times, its roars reverberating throughout the Thunder Department. Billions of thunderbolts, like the wrath of a thunder god, gathered fiercely, resembling a monstrous beast that blotted out the sky and opened its maw of fury upon her below!

    "Such an explosive disy¡­"

    Even Gu Suwan had never witnessed such wild fury before, her pretty face reflecting the lightning shes, continuously flickering.

    "What a frightening amount of power¡­ All this just to execute Cao Shuo. Aren''t you guys overdoing it?" the Moon Sword Goddess, deeply shaken, asked in bewilderment.

    "Who knows? Perhaps the Crown Prince required such a deterrent," Gu Suwan replied with a smile.

    As the two women conversed, the ferocity of the Thunder Immortal Formation in the sky escted dramatically!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Each thunderp released billions of lightning serpents that wildly swept across the sky over the Thunder Department.

    The violet thunderbolts in the sky collided and merged, exploding into a dark violet vortex, resembling the face of a colossal demon ring down at the sacrednd, unleashing fierce and furious roars!

    "This... this... this..."

    Not just the millions of Immortals of the Thunder Department outside, but even the 10,000 officials were overwhelmed by the violent electrical storm, their eardrums nearly bursting, each one stunned and shocked.

    "The Thunder Immortal Formation is incredible!"

    Even then, most of the Thunder Department''s Immortals were still reeling in shock.

    How could it not be awe-inspiring?

    They weren¡¯t even the target of the formation, and yet their skin was nearly blistering with bloody wounds!

    <em>BOOM! </em>At that moment, the Thunder Immortal Formation emitted the loudest thunderp yet, as the entire ck vortex trembled violently and contracted, a process that was terrifying to witness.

    Such extreme contraction was bound to cause extreme destruction!

    "Supreme Generals!"

    Cao Sheng, who had just moved away from Cao Shuo, his face covered in sweat, looked towards the three Supreme Generals and asked loudly, "What¡¯s happening? Surely this is overkill, isn''t it?"

    As he spoke, he suddenly noticed the three Supreme Generals looked deathly pale, their eyes bloody, blood dripping from the corners of their mouths, and blood spurting from every pore!

    "It¡¯s out of control!" Gu Zhenxiao shouted these words with a trembling voice, and then his body exploded in a burst of lightning, his arms instantly turning to a mist of blood.

    "What!!!" Cao Sheng stiffened, his mind going nk.

    A chill ran through him as he looked up abruptly!

    Above in the heavens, a ck column of lightning burst forth, striking down at terrifying speed upon Cao Sheng¡¯s bald head!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Cao Sheng¡¯s eyes bulged, his mouth agape, as the ck column of lightning instantly reduced him to dust!

    As the column of lightning struck him, it pierced through the ground of the Thunder Department, sting a gigantic crater of thunder.

    "Ah?"

    In an instant, the Nine Thunders Arena descended into chaos. The 10,000 officials turned pale, their scalps tingling, spines chilling, and cold sweat breaking out all over.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM¡­</em>

    In the next moment, countless ck columns of lightning, like celestial swords from the heavens, furiously struck down, precisely targeting each of the Thunder Department''s officials. The terrifying destructive force shredded flesh and obliterated celestial treasures and Bags of Holding where it struck.

    The scene was unprecedentedly spectacr!

    These lofty Immortals of the Thunder Department, now like mosquitoes under the Thunder Immortal Formation, were obliterated in shes of lightning. Regardless of what celestial treasures they wielded, they fell, disintegrated, dying in extreme fear and disbelief.

    "No, no, no!" Yun Yin, his eyes bloodied, watched the catastrophic scene with a heart-wrenching gaze, feeling as if he''d been pierced by a thousand swords. Tears of blood streamed down his face as he watched the foundation of the entire Thunder Department being destroyed in the barrage of lightning.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Supreme General, save me!" Suddenly, a young voice called out.

    Startled, Yun Yin looked over to see a ferocious ck lightning column striking towards Yun Xiao!

    By Yun Xiao''s side, both the Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwan had already turned pale. They acted in unison with Yun Xiao, who activated the tripleyered protective formation of his newly acquired tinum Champion Set.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Even so, the destructive ck column sted them into oblivion. Amidst the smoke and dust, Yun Yin had no way of knowing the fate of the trio!

    "It''s over! Completely done for!" Gu Zhenxiao''s voice was full of agony, even breaking into a cry.

    Yun Yin, along with him and Man Zhan, looked around only to see the entire Nine Thunders Arena being perforated by countless ck thunderbolts. In an instant, all 10,000 officials of the Thunder Department, without exception, were obliterated amidst screams, reduced to ash!

    All were dead!

    Not only that, the world-destroying ck columns of lightning were now out of control, even shooting beyond the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, forming a ck scythe-like thunder de sweeping across the entire Thunder Department.

    "AHH!" "NO!"

    "GAGH!"

    Countless Immortals, even those merely brushed by a spark of electricity, were instantly vaporized!

    The closer these spectators were to the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, the more vocally enthusiastic they had been about the execution, and the faster they died!

    At the entrance of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, tens of thousands of students from the Grand Firmament Academy who had gathered close to watch were engulfed by a massive ck lightning column, instantly exploding into a sea of ck blood!

    "Uh..."

    Watching this unfold, the three Supreme Generals'' throats spasmed in horror!

    Their faces bore the most grievous expressions.

    "Nine Thunders Sovereign! Nine Thunders Sovereign!" Yun Yin cried out loud, crawling and rolling towards the direction of the Celestial Court!

    Just then, the Thunder Immortal Formation seemed to release itsst reserves of energy, mming down three dragon-like ck lightning bolts!

    "No, don''t..."

    In a wail of agony, Yun Yin, Gu Zhenxiao, and Man Zhan, the three Supreme Generals, vanished into smoke with a hum!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Only then did the Thunder Immortal Formation seem spent, its ck fury fading to a violet-blue hue, the vortex dissipating, and the world slowly regaining rity.

    Yet, the Thunder Department was now andscape of devastation, scarred and pocked, with countless Immortals reduced to flesh and ash. ck smoke rose everywhere, as if after an apocalyptic battle.

    Screams of agony and pain reced the thunderous roars, echoing across the surroundings.

    The surviving Immortals, almost out of their minds with fear, fled in panic, wailing everywhere.

    The entire Thunder Department seemed to have entered an unprecedented doomsday.

    Darkness shrouded thend, and everywhere one looked resembled hell.

    In the very heart of this hellishndscape, amidst a field of ruins, suddenly, a young man in white rose.

    He looked to either side!

    The Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwany beside him, their bodies covered in blood, half-charred by the lightning.

    But they were not dead!

    They hadn''t been struck by the main force of the lightning. Their own considerable strength,bined with the top-tier celestial garments Yun Xiao had received as the Champion, ultimately protected them.

    Of course, it also saved Yun Xiao himself.

    However, under that thunderous annihtion, his tinum Champion Set was now ash.

    This indicated that the bolt that struck Yun Xiao was formidable, second only to the three that obliterated the three Supreme Generals.

    "Are they unconscious from severe injuries?" Yun Xiao checked, the Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwan were in the same condition.

    It turned out better this way.

    Yun Xiao needed them alive to not stand out too much himself.

    He lifted his head, looking over the hellishndscape.

    Even after destruction, there were still shes of gold everywhere.

    Those glints of gold were from Bags of Holding and True Immortal Jades sted out by the explosions.

    "Time to get to work!"

    d in white, Yun Xiao darted into the thick smoke, beginning his treasure hunt.

    Even at the heart of this hell, no Projection Orb could prate the murk.

    He kept picking treasures.

    "Lu... Lu Yao..."

    Just then, a trembling voice sounded behind him.

    Yun Xiao turned to see the Thunder Department¡¯s seductress standing there, her hair disheveled, her face smeared with ck soot mixed with tears, making her look like a lump of coal¡ªalbeit a shapely one.

    She wasn''t hurt, just stained by the smoke and dust.

    At that moment, as she watched the lively young man scavenging for treasures, she understood everything!

    And understanding brought such a shock that her legs felt weak.

    Watching the seemingly harmless boy before her, she felt numb.

    Yun Xiao nced at her and said, "What are you standing there dazed for? I still need to clear my name, so get moving."

    "Okay, okay," she sobbed.

    But this time, her tears were of relief.

    "Hide yourself!" Yun Xiao barked.

    "Okay," she continued crying.

    "Don''t hide too far!" Yun Xiao added.

    "Why?" she asked, bewildered.

    "Because of you, I was forced to reveal all my cards early!" Yun Xiao said.

    "So?"

    "Go take a bath. Once I''m done collecting treasures, you''re going to wish you were dead after I''m done with you!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 645: Gone! All Gone!

    Chapter 645: Gone! All Gone!

    Thick smoke and a mist of blood mingled with the dust of corpses and the remnants of chaos.

    In the ruins of the Nine Thunders Arena, where all the officials had been decimated, Yun Xiao found no one to disrupt his scavenging. Hemanded Blue Star and Red Moon to transform into a fierce beast with ck scales, which devoured clouds and spewed fog, and craft a dense maze around him.

    This allowed him ample time to sift through the treasures at his leisure, gathering as many True Immortal Jades, celestial fruits, and pills as he could carry¡ªitems that were easy to absorb and digest were always preferable.

    As for the cumbersome celestial weapons that could stick between teeth or pierce stomachs, Yun Xiao avoided those. Such items were hard to fence and risky to hold, likely to give him away.

    "The Crown Prince''s order to the Thunder Department to execute Cao Shuo with the Thunder Immortal Formation gave me the opportunity to maneuver in unnoticed," Yun Xiao mused, havingid his groundwork before making his move. His performance of ruthlessness had even infuriated the clever Cao Shuo.

    Such was the artistry of his deception, honed through countless brushes with danger¡ªskills not just of Moon Fairy but truly his own.

    "This task is riskier than the massacre in Sky Soaring City. But if I can bluff my way through, I will. If not, the rewards from this grand lootingbined with my winnings from the tournament should provide enough leverage to confront any challenge head-on."

    So, Yun Xiao would not lose. Ideally, he would remain hidden, continuing to bide his time within the Celestial Court, perhaps reaping even greater benefits in the days toe.

    He looted with discernment. "The cleanup crew won''t know how much wealth the officials carried, nor if they were obliterated on the spot. I just need to leave behind the stuff I can''t use."Speaking of which, if they weren''t all obliterated on the spot, I could''ve increased my Sword and Rune Prisons too!" Yun Xiao sighed.

    The officials of the Thunder Department had vanished without a trace, not even a hair left behind!

    Yun Xiao collected treasures swiftly, while Blue Star and Red Moon devoured them even faster.

    ¡°This will be marked as the most heinous case in the annals of the Celestial Court. The obliteration of so many officials from the Thunder Department is unprecedented. If exposed, I''ll be the second Divine Heaven grade criminal!¡± Yun Xiao realized, acknowledging this as the perfect moment to secure his foundation.

    Blue Star and Red Moon had seen fortunes rise and fall dramatically. Thest time Lu Fan had struck them, they were left drained. But now, under Yun Xiao''s cunning strategy¡ªfirst securing a reward of 100,000,000 True Immortal Jades, and now plundering everything in sight¡ªthey soared from the ground up!

    The more substantial his foundation, the stronger Yun Xiao''s confidence grew!

    Still, Yun Xiao was not one to recklessly force his way through. Money was to be saved when possible because a prodigal moment could lead to ack of crucial fundster¡ªaplete disaster.

    Divine Dawn was the one known for brute force, not him.

    After what felt like an eternity, Yun Xiao finally finished his <em>cleaning</em> spree.

    ¡°All the Rank 6 or above officials of the Thunder Department banding together to donate all their wealth to a young upstart¡ªhow touching.¡±

    Touching his bulging golden Bag of Holding, Yun Xiao returned to the sides of the Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwan.

    Pointing to the sky, he dered, ¡°Let the thunder strike.¡±

    And with a thunderous roar, a bolt struck him squarely.

    Yun Xiaoy charred, his body rigid, sprawled across the Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwan, unmoving.

    ¡°Such a fierce man, to others and to himself.¡± Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    As anguished cries rang out across the Thunder Department, the Nine Thunders Arena remained eerily silent.

    About a quarter of an hour passed.

    ¡°Uh¡­¡±

    Amid excruciating pain, the Moon Sword Goddess slowly opened her pale, moon-colored eyes.

    Her eyes were bloodshot, haunted by a deep haze of confusion and fear even as she forced them open.

    "What''s wrong..." she muttered, feeling a heavy tightness in her chest.

    Straining with all her might, she lifted her head only to see a young man lying beside her, half his face charred, his hair mostly burnt away, and his neck smeared with blood¡ªit was Yun Xiao.

    "Lu Yao!" The Moon Sword Goddess''s voice was hoarse as she reached out a hand scarred from the thunder to pat Yun Xiao''s face. "You''re not dead, are you? Wake up."

    Her gesture didn''t rouse Yun Xiao, but it did startle Gu Suwan.

    Gu Suwan''s spirit, lost in chaos, slowly gathered strength. Her eyshes fluttered as she opened her eyes, the first thing she saw being two legs draped over her abdomen.

    "Ah!" In a panic, she pushed the legs away and sat up.

    Sitting up tore at her wounds, bringing tears to her eyes from the sharp pain.

    "Moon Sword Goddess..." she began, seeing the Moon Sword Goddess sitting up beside her, holding Lu Yao, her voice trembling. "It was Lu Yao... The protective formations from his tinum Champion Set saved us..."

    Hearing this, Gu Suwan''s mind cleared enough to recall the events that had led them here.

    She widened her eyes in horror, gazing around at the thick ck fog that still swirled like a storm.

    There was zero visibility; all that could be heard were the distant, woeful cries of the Immortals from the Thunder Department.

    "Old Cao..." Gu Suwan suddenly remembered, her husband had seemingly been obliterated by the first strike of thunder.

    In a burst of heartrending agony, she attempted to stand, only to copse again due to the severe injuries to her legs.

    "Your husband is likely gone," the Moon Sword Goddess said, her condition somewhat better as a Lightning Duchess. She looked down at Yun Xiao in her arms and added, "Quick, search yourself. Do you have any celestial elixirs? He''s not dead yet. We have to treat him first."

    "Ah, alright, alright..." Gu Suwan''s spirit seemed detached from her body, her hands trembling as she searched through her Bag of Holding, retrieving several jade bottles and feeding Yun Xiao a handful of pills, consuming some herself.

    "Here, take this Thunder Containment Pill; it''ll absorb the residual electric fury in your body," Gu Suwan handed the remaining jade bottle to the Moon Sword Goddess.

    Without hesitation, the Moon Sword Goddess swallowed the pill, and after a moment of regting her breath, her celestial power seemed to rejuvenate slightly. She then turned to Gu Suwan, "Look after your son. I''ll check if there are any other survivors..."

    As she spoke, her demeanor was distant, her mind still echoing with the crack of thunder.

    From her high vantage, she fully grasped the catastrophic devastation that had befallen the Thunder Department.

    "Alright, alright." Gu Suwan hastily took over caring for Yun Xiao, tears streaming down her face as she pleaded, "Moon Sword Goddess, please check if Cao Sheng is still alive. If he''s gone, see if there¡¯s a body at least..."

    "Alright." The Moon Sword Goddess moved slowly, vanishing from her sight, only to return quickly with a face etched in somber stillness, her voice hoarse as she informed Gu Suwan, "Gone, all gone."

    "What do you mean!" Gu Suwan gasped for air.

    "All officials of the Thunder Department, those of Rank 6 and above, are dead except for you and Lu Yao... Even the neighboring Grand Firmament Academy seems to have been leveled to the ground!"

    It meant that not only were they gone now, but there was no future either.

    "Ah..." Gu Suwan''s eyes widened in shock as she was rendered speechless.

    "No, no, no, it can''t be true." Gu Suwan shook her head, tears falling on Yun Xiao''s face as she sobbed.

    Yun Xiao frowned slightly, feeling the itch of the tears on his skin, yet he maintained his act.

    The Moon Sword Goddess, oblivious to Yun Xiao''s reaction, sighed deeply at Gu Suwan, urging, "Face the reality!"

    She then scanned their surroundings, adding, "The news of what happened here must already be spreading. The forces from the Celestial Court should be on their way. Weren''t there Projection Orbs set up?"

    "Yes, there were..." Gu Suwan nodded through her tears.

    "Crying won''t help. Let''s try to figure out what caused this. Is it normal for your Thunder Immortal Formation to spiral out of control like this?" the Moon Sword Goddess pressed her.

    "I don¡¯t know..." Gu Suwan was too distraught to offer any meaningful answers.

    The Moon Sword Goddess had no choice but to keep moving, eventually finding several Projection Orbs scattered around.

    As the post-apocalyptic haze slowly began to clear¡­ the sky suddenly roared with thunder and wind.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Nine Thunders Divine Ark tore through the sky, halting with a resounding st.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Dozens of celestial figures surged from the ship¡ªabout 30 Immortals from the divinend of the Celestial Court descended, their eyes wide with disbelief as they took in the apocalyptic scene of the Thunder Department.

    Leading them were two figures.

    One was the violet-haired Nine Thunders Sovereign, his body enveloped in orbs of lightning, radiating with the fury of a storm, a testament to his inner turmoil.

    The other was a strikingly young man, his skin as pale as white jade, his features otherworldly in their perfection. More impressive than his looks was his demeanor, dressed in a golden dragon robe, his face as fine as carved jade, his eyes bright as stars, his presence radiant with divine light.

    "The Crown Prince has also arrived..."

    Gu Suwan and the Moon Sword Goddess tensed slightly at his arrival.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 646: Crown Prince Yu!

    Chapter 646: Crown Prince Yu!

    A prince as pure as white jade!

    Were it not for Yun Xiao, he might have been deemed the most ethereal and refined man within the Great Dao Celestial Realm, embodying a regal aura unmatched, transcending the ordinary, peerless in his era.

    Both the Crown Prince and White Emperor were of an ageless kind, legends eternal in the Celestial Court. Though he appeared a youthful admirer of the sun, in truth, his years surpassed even those of the venerable Empress Zhao.

    Throughout the vast stretches of time, the Crown Prince had always been the object of admiration among the celestial maidens, his allure a legend inscribed across all scriptures of the realm.

    There were even numerous fantasy novels penned by women, casting the prince as their protagonist, weaving tales of romantic escapades through seasons of flowers and snow.

    Beneath one Emperor, above 10,000 Immortals!

    Even the Nine Thunders Sovereign had to regard the Crown Prince with utmost reverence.

    Yet at this moment, the Nine Thunders Sovereign looked as if heart had been pierced by 1,000 swords. His face was a storm of lightning serpents, his eyes thunderous, had no time to spare for the Crown Prince.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He fell upon the battlefield of the Nine Thunders Arena and, with a swoosh, split into nine, scattering to different positions, witnessing the aftermath of destruction.The message received was beyond belief.

    Seeing with his own eyes, he was thunderstruck!

    At this moment, the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s heart was shattered into 1,000,000 pieces, his eyes entwined with scarlet lightning snakes, staring nkly at it all!

    "Sovereign..." Gu Suwan called out tremblingly, empathizing with the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    "Everyone else is dead, except for you?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign suddenly appeared before Gu Suwan, ring at her, his eyes sparking with lightning upon her.

    "Yes," Gu Suwan wept and bowed her head.

    Her words spoke the stark truth!

    Yet the Nine Thunders Sovereign still found it unbearable, suddenly grasping Gu Suwan''s hand, his voice fierce, "How did you survive?"

    Gu Suwan cried out in panic, "It must have been the three Supreme Generals, they suffered the bacsh of the Thunder Immortal Formation, and we..."

    She said, looking down at Yun Xiao in her arms, murmuring, "At that moment, the three of us were close, Lu Yao with his tinum Champion Set bore the brunt of the attack, and it ended up getting destroyed."

    Yun Xiao was still unconscious when the Nine Thunders Sovereign nced down at him andmanded, ¡°Wake him up!¡±

    ¡°He just took a Thunder Containment Pill, his condition is improving, it should be soon,¡± Gu Suwan hurriedly replied.

    At that moment, the Moon Sword Goddess produced several Projection Orbs. "These contain theplete records of the incident¡­ I¡¯ve only had a brief look, there might be more around.¡±

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign took the Projection Orbs and instructed the others, ¡°Search for more.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Afterwards, the Nine Thunders Sovereign approached the Crown Prince, holding the Projection Orbs.

    This celebration feast and the Thunder Immortal Execution had been their demand; the Sixth Prince had just perished, yet the Crown Prince did not fear gossip, intent on making an example to awe the entire Celestial Court.

    But something had gone terribly wrong!

    Still, Crown Prince Yu appeared remarkablyposed.

    They activated a few orbs and silently watched. The orbs, from various angles, recorded the sequence of events.

    From the joyful celebrations at the feast''s start, to when Cao Shuo was brought in, all seemed normal.

    Then came Cao Shuo and Yun Xiao¡¯s <em>monkey</em> argument.

    Following this was the execution, which suddenly went awry as the Thunder Immortal Formation spiraled out of control, first striking Cao Sheng, then sweeping through the crowd¡­ Indeed, even Lu Yao at the center was not spared!

    Several orbs captured him pleading with the Supreme Generals for help, then Gu Suwan and the Moon Sword Goddess shielding him, and his use of the tinum Champion Set to survive.

    The columns of lightning above their heads were nearly thergest seen so far!

    And the tinum Champion Set was the strongest defensive celestial treasure present!

    At this point in the footage, smoke billowed, blurring everything, until thest three massive columns of lightning unleashed the formation¡¯s ultimate destructive power, annihting the three Supreme Generals involved!

    After this moment, the lower levels of the Nine Thunders Arena were engulfed in smoke, obscuring all from view.

    After viewing, the Crown Prince expressed his surprise, ¡°Seems like it was truly an ident? How unfortunate.¡±

    ¡°Impossible!¡± the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied sternly, shaking his head coldly, ¡°The Thunder Immortal Formation has never malfunctioned before, and even if it did, it shouldn¡¯t kill with such precision, concentrating its force on the Nine Thunders Arena.¡±

    ¡°Are you suggesting someone manipted it? Who might that be?¡± the Crown Prince asked calmly.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign paused, then closed his eyes.

    After a moment, he opened them and nced at Yun Xiao in Gu Suwan¡¯s arms.

    Just then, Yun Xiao coughed up a mouthful of ck blood and awoke, his body covered in cold sweat.

    His eyes wide, he struggled to lift his head, looking around in bewilderment.

    "Just now¡­" Yun Xiao''s voice was hoarse, his throat burning.

    "The Thunder Immortal Formation lost control, many perished," Gu Suwan said through tears.

    "This is Crown Prince Yu," the Moon Sword Goddess, moreposed, introduced him to Yun Xiao.

    "A humble Immortal, at your service, Your Highness, Sovereign," Yun Xiao greeted, his face still clouded with confusion.

    "Is this the Champion of the Immortal Tournament?" The Crown Prince cracked a slight smile. "Though marred by injuries, one can still see he is a man of distinction just by his outline."

    "Thank you, Your Highness¡­" Yun Xiao responded tly, his attention scattered as he tremulously asked Gu Suwan, "The three Supreme Generals?"

    Gu Suwan, tears streaming like rain, was lost for words.

    "How could this be?" Yun Xiao shook his head, ncing around, his gaze finally resting on the fragments of the tinum Champion Set.

    "Right." The Crown Prince turned to the Nine Thunders Sovereign. "You mentioned earlier that the Thunder Immortal Formation might have been tampered with?"

    "It seems unlikely," the Moon Sword Goddess interjected, "This is the greatest celestial formation of the Celestial Court, a symbol of celestial order, perfected over generations. How could an outsider easily control it?"

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign examined the Projection Orbs a few times.

    He finally closed his eyes, clenched his fist, and said, "I''ll go check the structure of the formation."

    With that, he spoke no further and ascended into the clouds, towards the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    "The Thunder Department was struck by such a disaster. All the officials have fallen, and their lineages suffer too. The backbone of the Celestial Court''s Immortal enforcers has been lost in a single day¡ªa pain unprecedented in the annals of the Celestial Court." The Crown Prince sighed deeply.

    Turning to Yun Xiao, he continued, "Fortunately, you survived the mishap. With you, the Thunder Department still has a future, a hope for reconstruction. That''s perhaps the only good news today."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Your Highness¡­" Yun Xiao sighed too, gritting his teeth, "This tragedy is too grievous, in such a short time¡­"

    He was speechless, choked up, unable to say more.

    Before long, the Nine Thunders Sovereign descended from the formation.

    "How was it?" asked the Crown Prince.

    "The structure of the Thunder Immortal Formation is unchanged, everything as it was originally," the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied.

    "Is that so?" The Crown Prince pped the Nine Thunders Sovereign on the shoulder, "No worries, take your time to investigate. If someone''s causing mischief, you''ll root them out. With things as they are, the Celestial Court can only do its utmost to support the rebuilding of the Thunder Department. Let me know if you need anything."

    "The immediate priority is to clear the rubble, honor the spirits of the deceased, and soothe the popce. Should more needs arise, I''ll trouble you then, Your Highness," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said.

    "Go on, then!" the Crown Prince said.

    After speaking, he transformed into a beam of golden light, ascending higher into the sky.

    He did not depart right away but instead looked down upon Yun Xiao and said, "I hear my Father granted you the prayers of a thousand stars?"

    "Yes¡­" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "You seem injured; the incense is nourishing, so take your time with it, and hurry only when you must. Once healed, return to rebuild the Thunder Department," the Crown Prince earnestly advised.

    "By yourmand, thank you, Your Highness!" Yun Xiao replied.

    The Crown Prince smiled warmly. "You possess a grand spirit, and your discussion between monkeys and humans was insightful. If an Immortal clings too tightly to human nature, they shall not advance an inch on the path of cultivation. Therefore, I am somewhat eager to see how you transform after receiving the incense offerings."

    Since he mentioned it, he clearly remembered quite well Yun Xiao''s public discourse with Cao Shuo.

    "I shall do my best," Yun Xiao responded.

    With a finalugh, the Crown Prince turned into a streak of golden light, vanishing from sight.

    "Heed the Crown Prince; return to Cao Immortal Manor to recuperate," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said, looking down at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao nodded.

    After that, the Nine Thunders Sovereign turned, summoning an envoy brought by the Celestial Court, "The Projection Orbs only show a lightning pir striking Cao Shuo, but we can''t ascertain her fate, and no body was found at the scene. Spread the word to continue searching for this person. A hefty reward for any leads."

    His words rang out clearly, naturally audible to Yun Xiao.

    "It seems the Nine Thunders Sovereign still suspects that the disruption of the Thunder Immortal Formation was someone¡¯s doing," the Moon Sword Goddess said softly, supporting Yun Xiao on one side.

    "How could that be possible... That''s too frightening," Gu Suwan murmured, a trace of fear in her voice.

    "With so many defying the heavenstely, who knows what''s possible?" the Moon Sword Goddess remarked coolly.

    Then, the two women escorted Yun Xiao back to the Cao Immortal Manor.

    By the time they were nearly there, Yun Xiao had almost fully regained his ability to move.

    "A bit more rest, and then we¡¯ll head for the Divine Gateway. We''ll apany you," the Moon Sword Goddess proposed.

    "My spirit''s been injured; my mind feels muddled. I might need a day," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Alright, rest then," the Moon Sword Goddess said before leaving the room.

    Gu Suwan stayed, sitting in a wooden chair, her gaze wandering around the room, lost in thought, her tears flowing freely.

    From this angle, her delicate sorrow was all the more poignant.

    "See, 800,000 True Immortal Jades for sparing your life was a good deal," Yun Xiao thought to himself. Then, he said aloud, "Foster mother, I¡¯d like to be alone for a bit, to collect myself."

    "Mmm¡­"

    She needed care herself now, obviously unable to tend to another, so she left.

    After she was gone, Yun Xiao sprang from the bed, stretching his limbs.

    "The Nine Thunders Sovereign suspects me, the Crown Prince and the Moon Sword Goddess are uncertain, while Gu Suwan and the rest are convinced it was an ident," Yun Xiao assessed.

    "So?" Blue Star piped up.

    "Never mind them. The money''s in hand, and since they didn¡¯t directly target me, I''ll continue toy low and level up," Yun Xiao dered.

    After speaking, he quietly got up and left the Cao Immortal Manor.

    As he stepped out, darkness began to envelop the sky, and the Thunder Department was soon to be shrouded in night.

    "Where to?" Blue Star asked.

    With a cough, Red Moon reminded Yun Xiao. "Hey, hey. It''s dark out now, and the ground is slippery. You should find some jadenterns to light the way. Make sure they''re extrarge and round!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 647: Black Lotus Spirit Seed!

    Chapter 647: ck Lotus Spirit Seed!

    Night cloaked the sacrednd of the Thunder Department. Yet the grandeur of the Thunder Immortal Formation above kept the world shimmering with light.

    In the wilderness, a white figure approached stealthily, knocking on the door of a secluded cabin nestled in a mountain ravine.

    "Who''s there?" A woman''s voice, filled with longing, echoed from within.

    "Open the door. The Champion of the Celestial Court hase to bring warmth to the grassroots," Yun Xiao dered.

    With a creak, the wooden door swung open, revealing a woman with violet curls cascading among the whiteness of the snow.

    "So soon?" Yun Xiao blinked, suddenly feeling he had underestimated the situation.

    "Don''t dawdle," she snapped, her voice a mix of frustration and relief. "I''ve been helping myself for half the day already."

    "If you had dyed, I might have died." Yun Xiao could only think that indeed, this was the plea of Cao Shuo who had faced centuries of solitude, her heart aching with loneliness.

    No sooner had she spoken than a pair of jade-like arms reached out like thunder from within, pulling the young man forcefully inside.<em>WHOOSH! </em>A small ck beast and two little serpents were flung out.

    Inside, under the flickering candlelight, Yun Xiao felt the immense pressure. Just as he was about to cry for help, he was pulled into the depths.

    <em>BANG! </em>The door shut behind them.

    This time, the connection was not of strife but of enduringpanionship.

    As the candle extinguished, a pair ofntern lights zed like the sun in the night, dominating the view and illuminating Yun Xiao''s path forward, aiding him to forge new realms on his lonely path of immortality.

    "You also do martial cultivation?" Yun Xiao sensed her robust constitution.

    It was as if he faced a vast sea tossing and turning under a storm.

    "Indeed," Cao Shuo replied.

    "I have a unique method of cultivation that, through the bridge between us now, can establish a Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace within us. It will help us elevate our cultivation. Shall we cultivate it?" Yun Xiao proposed.

    "Does cultivating it mean you''ll keeping back to me for more?" Cao Shuo asked, her tone teasing.

    "True, cultivation requires persistence, a dailymitment," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Then I''ll give it my all," Cao Shuo dered.

    Yun Xiao was momentarily at a loss for words. "Don''t rush it, please. Otherwise, I always feel like I''m getting the short end of the stick."

    In such matters, he was usually in charge, while his partners Chen Xi and Lian Xi were always shy.

    Yet here was this force of nature, holding on to Yun Xiao for dear life, fearing he might slip away.

    "Look at that face of yours; I''m definitelying out ahead," Cao Shuo said with a carefreeugh.

    "Alright then!"

    Being proactive all the time seemed a bit dull. Experiencing passivity, on the other hand, added a unique vor to life.

    "Thunder Emissary Cao, you''re a person who loves and hates boldly. You''re forthright and never hide your thoughts or desires. Being with you, I feel at ease," Yun Xiao confessed.

    "Have you fallen for me then?" Cao Shuo asked.

    "Not yet," Yun Xiao replied.

    "I figured as much. Otherwise, why call me Thunder Emissary Cao at such a time?" She couldn''t help butugh and cry at the young man''s words.

    Yun Xiao appeared ethereal, and sometimes he truly seemed apart from this world. Yet, he was also very worldly. If not for his earthly desires, he probably wouldn''t be here, indulging wildly with someone older than him.

    Yun Xiao and Cao Shuo were both people who didn¡¯t suppress their desires, acting on their impulses.

    Perhaps that was why Yun Xiao was gradually epting her... In the Celestial Court, such people were exceedingly rare.

    Many celestial maidens appeared more radiant, pure, and saintly, like sacred elixirs, but engaged in the darkest deeds.

    But Cao Shuo, while oftenbeled unruly, clung fiercely to her principles!

    Yun Xiao recognized this truth.

    She shared traits with Zhao Xuanran, but Cao Shuo amplified her candor and exuberance.

    That was why Yun Xiao had decided to cultivate the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace with her.

    It was a minor branch of Primordial Martial Arts for Yun Xiao, a fortification of his own furnace, a perfect embellishment to his journey.

    For Cao Shuo, nourishment from Yun Xiao''s Primordial Yin-Yang Furnace was indeed a stroke of incredible fortune!

    Inside the secluded, fiery cabin, a circr formation emerged on the floor. At its heart, the Yin-Yang symbol birthed two fish, their tails linked, representing the dual cultivators.

    Yun Xiao chanted the rites of the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace, guiding her cultivation. Cao Shuo, a woman of keen intellect, caught on immediately.

    Within her, the power of a Martial Immortal rebuilt itself, forming a Yin Thunder Furnace akin to a reservoir of lightning, spreading throughout her body, driven by their mutual connection!

    The same transformation urred for Yun Xiao.

    The forces of the Yin Thunder Furnace and Yang Thunder Furnace collided and rubbed fiercely, sparking potent primordial currents that tempered the body and fortified the Immortal physiques!

    This was the underlying principle!

    "This is truly..." Amidst the shing electric lights, Cao Shuo nearly rolled her eyes back, eximing, "I have not lived in vain, not at all."

    "What''s there to be excited about? It''s just the beginning," Yun Xiao retorted, somewhat disdainfully.

    His task was moreplex.

    Not only was he cultivating the Primordial Martial Dao and reinforcing his current physique, but he was also using Tri Heaven Sariras to enhance his cultivation. With time pressing and the limited supply from Blue Star and Red Moon, Yun Xiao had used nearly all of it.

    This night, he was indulging in both pleasure and cultivation.

    "Cao Shuo, what level of cultivation are you at?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I haven''t lived in vain..." she repeated dreamily.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "I''m asking you a question!" Yun Xiao said, exasperated.

    "Perfect Golden Immortal Realm. I haven''t lived in vain," she finally responded.

    Yun Xiao knew that Nine Kites and others were Early Golden Immortals, while An Yao was at the Mid stage.

    As a Perfect Golden Immortal, Cao Shuo was among the stronger of the Rank 4 Thunder Emissaries.

    In terms of cultivation alone, Cao Shuo surpassed the likes of Nine Kites and others.

    Gu Suwan had reached the Establishment Golden Immortal Realm. This was the level needed to be a Rank 3 Lightning Duchess.

    It was said that bing a Golden Immortal positioned one at the pinnacle of the Celestial Court, where advancement became exceedingly difficult. Many spent decades, even centuries, without making further progress.

    Yun Xiao, however, was still in the Mid Celestial Expanse Realm. In terms of the robustness of his power, he was somewhat inferior to the Thunder Emissary, which made this period of cultivation particrly beneficial for him.

    It was a night of grueling cultivation!

    "Breaking through three stages to the Establishment Celestial Expanse Realm!"

    This achievement, under the auspices of the newly formed Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace, marked a significant leap forward for Yun Xiao.

    Furthermore, he had integrated An Yao''s ck Lotus Spirit Seed talent into his spirit, recing his prior lesser talent with this more potent Seed of Creation.

    "I''ve made a breakthrough as well..." Cao Shuo murmured, exhausted, her eyes zed, lips slightly parting.

    Her curly violet hair sprawled out like a blooming violet rose.

    And Yun Xiao was poised above this violet rose.

    "Have you reached the Establishment Golden Immortal Realm?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I haven''t lived in vain..." she murmured back.

    "Speak inly!" Yun Xiao demanded.

    "Yes. I''ll take a moment, then break through again, nearly catching up to my brother. You''re more effective than incense offerings..."

    As Cao Shuo spoke, her eyes welled up slightly. "I''ve been through life and death, to be this joyful is my due!"

    She had been pondering all night long, and Yun Xiao still couldn''t grasp why she felt so deeply moved.

    "Alright, I''m off to my next task." Yun Xiao prepared to rise.

    "Don''t go." She sped his neck again, exerting pressure.

    "They''re urging me to receive incense offerings," Yun Xiao said helplessly.

    "Listen to my heartbeat," Cao Shuo insisted.

    Yun Xiao paused, exasperated. "Listen to what? My ears are at least four inches from your heart."

    "Fine then."

    Only then did Cao Shuo release him, turning to lie face down on the floor, waving dismissively. "Go on, then."

    "Goodbye!" Yun Xiao stood, shut the door with a fluid motion, and left the cabin.

    And Cao Shuo flipped back to gaze at the ceiling, musing softly, "All my life, I''ve never been afraid of the ze¡­ But now, I''m afraid of the spark in my heart¡­ I haven''t lived in vain."

 Chapter 648: Send You On Your Way!

    Chapter 648: Send You On Your Way!

    At the Cao Immortal Manor, Yun Xiao had just returned from outside to find an additional presence¡ªa diminutive figure with arge head and squinty, smiling eyes.

    It was none other than the Longevity Immortal, a favored figure of the Imperial Treasury, and a disciple of the Dragon Tiger Sovereign. Renowned throughout the Great Dao Celestial Realm, there wasn''t a soul who didn''t know of him.

    Unexpectedly, the Longevity Immortal hade to him, not waiting for Yun Xiao to seek him out in the divinend of the Celestial Court. His eagerness about the matter of receiving incense offerings even surpassed Yun Xiao''s disdain.

    With an impassive expression, Yun Xiao greeted him, "This humble Immortal greets the Longevity Immortal."

    Standing before him was a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer whose cultivation far surpassed that of a Golden Immortal.

    Yun Xiao, capable of sweeping across those at the same level as him, now faced one whose spirit was vast and whose celestial power was as boundless as an abyss.

    However, figures like the Longevity Immortal, Gu Suwan, and Moon Sword Goddess could never have guessed that, in just one night, Yun Xiao''s cultivation had explosively increased by three whole stages from a night of intense <em>wrestling</em>. He was nowparable to some Rank 3 Heavenly Officers.

    His arrival at the Celestial Court was recent, yet in terms of innate talent, no one across couldpare. Protagonists like Ye Xingchen, Ling Chen, and Lu Fan from other sagas, who typically dominated their stories, were mere dust beside him.

    In the celestial realm, Yun Xiao stood unparalleled.To Yun Xiao, the resources needed to form the Tri Heaven Sariras and Origin Orbs were still of utmost importance. Lacking resources, he could only continue to grind slowly.

    The Longevity Immortal, Gu Suwan, and the Moon Sword Goddess all noticed his overnight transformation.

    "Where were youst night?" the Moon Sword Goddess asked softly.

    "In a forsaken ce of retreat," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Was it fruitful?" she asked, her voice tinged with a deeper curiosity.

    "Quite fruitful indeed," he confirmed.

    From behind, the Longevity Immortal chuckled, "Your talents surpass even those of the Chaos Sovereign."

    "Youpare me to him, which only shows yourck of imagination," Yun Xiao suddenly remarked.

    "Uh."

    The Longevity Immortal hadn''t expected Yun Xiao to be so forthright, and was momentarily taken aback by the blunt retort. But he quickly smiled, changing the subject with ease. "Today, I''vee to the Thunder Department to assist you in receiving the imperial blessing of a thousand starlit offerings. Since your vitality has been restored, shall we set off?"

    After speaking, he smiled and squinted at Yun Xiao, who remembered this exact grin¡ªone that often stewed pot after pot of ascenders.

    "Please, Longevity Immortal," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "And us?" Gu Suwan asked.

    "Do not worry, my friends." The Longevity Immortal chuckled, stroking his beard. "I shall protect your son and disciple, ensuring his safe and enriched return."

    It was clear they were not invited to join.

    The rites of receiving incense offerings had their rules, and the Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwan knew better than to insist.

    "Let''s depart."

    With a slight smile from the Longevity Immortal, a celestial ship shaped like a golden ingot soared towards them, casting a brilliant golden light. Though not as grand as the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, this golden treasure ship had plenty of space for both Yun Xiao and the Longevity Immortal.

    "Immortals above, the fire of mortals below, a reflection of heaven''s virtue!"

    With a beaming smile, the Longevity Immortal took the helm. The golden treasure ship lifted off from the ruins of the Thunder Department and ascended into the sky.

    Elsewhere, on a high tower of the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, nine identical violet-haired youths stood with a stern gaze, watching the departing golden treasure ship.

    "The world of the Immortal Asylum?"

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign, his eyes sparking with electric serpents, his expression deeply cold, faced the wind and cast a flying talisman towards the Divine Gateway.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The golden treasure ship rose into the sky, surrounded by the fierce ze of the Celestial Sourcecore, roaring like hundreds of thousands of volcanic beasts around them.

    Yun Xiao stood at the prow, his hair flowing in the fiery clouds. Suddenly pointing in a direction, he asked, "What ce is that?"

    Without even looking, the Longevity Immortal replied with a cheerful smile, "That is the Ascension Pool I oversee!"

    "Oh, the ce where the ascenders get stewed?" Yun Xiao chuckled, shaking his head.

    "Shh," the Longevity Immortal winked. "We mustn''t speak carelessly. The Ascension Pool''s duty is to guard the gateway of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, to keep the foreign devils at bay. These days, true ascenders are few, and devils many. What we stew are mostly those devils with ill intentions."

    "So, you must be terribly busy on most days?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Indeed." The Longevity Immortal sighed, his voice tinged with resignation. "Batch after batch, it''s enough to wear an old Immortal out."

    "Despite such busyness, you still found time to apany me to receive the offerings. I truly appreciate it," Yun Xiao expressed.

    "Don''t mention it. Guiding a young Champion like yourself onto the path is also a privilege granted by the Emperor," the Longevity Immortal paused, then added with a smile, "Once we''ve done this the first time, your future descents among the mortals, bing a faith for the masses, will all be smooth sailing."

    Yun Xiao nodded deeply, then, pointing in the direction of the Ascension Pool, he asked, "Hey, is the Ascension Pool always this lively?"

    "What?" The Longevity Immortal was taken aback for a moment.

    He looked towards the Ascension Pool and saw waves of disturbances, billowing smoke, tumultuous celestial magic, and heard numerous screams of agony.

    "There''s trouble at the Ascension Pool!" the Longevity Immortal eximed.

    This was no small matter!

    In all his years overseeing the Ascension Pool, such an incident had never urred.

    "It''s fortunate that we stumbled upon this."

    The Longevity Immortal''s squinted eyes widened slightly as he said to Yun Xiao, "This may dy us a bit."

    "No matter, attend to your urgent matters first," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Agreed!"

    Without further ado, the Longevity Immortal altered the course of the golden treasure ship, steering it towards the Ascension Pool.

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>The area around the Ascension Pool was fortified with the celestial formations of the Celestial Sourcecore, making it exceedingly difficult for outsiders to breach.

    However, as the master of the Ascension Pool, the Longevity Immortal navigated the ship throughyers of clouds and turbulence, finally entering the vicinity of the Ascension Pool.

    "Up ahead!"

    Stepping onto thending, the Longevity Immortal widened his eyes to see the area around the Ascension Pool in chaos, with continuous screams piercing the air.

    "Which devil dares to intrude upon the gateway of the Celestial Court!"

    With a cold deration, the Longevity Immortal signaled for Yun Xiao to stay put. He then leapt from the golden treasure ship, transforming into a streak of light, and dashed towards the Ascension Pool!

    "The Longevity Immortal has arrived!"

    His arrival stirred waves of calls and exmations.

    "Who is causing this mayhem?"

    Approaching the white jade bridge that led to the Ascension Pool, the Longevity Immortal gazed into the waters, now dyed red with blood. The structure of the pool was riddled with damage, and Ambrosia nectar sshed all around from the devastating blows.

    Beneath a ghostly white figure, the bodies of officials from the Imperial Treasury were strewn about, each gruesomely mangled, their forms marred by lightning and mes.

    "Uh..." The Longevity Immortal''s face turned ashen!

    His eyes widened in horror at the sight of the small, delicate figure in white, looking as innocent and fragile as a porcin doll, yet her hands wielded a pair of massive meteor hammers!

    "Divine Dawn!" The Longevity Immortal trembled from head to toe.

    "Weren''t you at the Divine Gateway? How are you here!" he stammered, panic seizing him as he stumbled backward.

    The powerful Taisui Sage had fallen at the hands of this princess; the Longevity Immortal knew he stood no chance inbat.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "I came out specifically to send you on your way," the girl in the white dress said, her voice soft and sweet, reminiscent of a cat''s purr but with a tone as fierce as a tiger''s roar.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The words had barely left her lips when the smaller of the hammers burst through the thick smoke, striking like thunder, and hitting the Longevity Immortal squarely at the back of his head.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With that blow, the Longevity Immortal''s body transformed into a golden gourd, rolling and bursting on the ground.

    "Seventh Princess, don''t kill me! I am a good person!" the golden gourd screamed.

    In response, a massive ming hammer fell from the sky, instantly pulverizing the golden gourd into dust and sting the celestial hall into fragments!

    The Longevity Immortal was obliterated, body and spirit!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The fair-skinned girl hovered in the air, wielding the Primordial Doom Stars with abandon, smashing everything in the Ascension Pool to bits. Wherever her thunderous strikes and fiery sts reached, only ruins remained!

    The Longevity Immortal and his subordinates didn''t even have a chance to send a distress signal; they all perished right there!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    <strong>I feel like this is close enough... Would you consider a pumpkin a gourd?</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 649: Celestial Devildom!

    Chapter 649: Celestial Devildom!

    A hiss broke the silence.

    Not far off, a group of ascenders had just been fished out of the Ascension Pool. Numb and dazed, they stared at the scene before them, utterly bewildered.

    Despair had gripped them moments ago. But then, this frightening girl had just saved all their lives.

    With a thunderous crash, the young woman wielded the Primordial Doom Stars, shattering a barrier behind her. Below, a gaping void appeared, revealing the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    "Enter, and tell everyone what is happening in the mortal realms," shemanded.

    "Do not fear; more will join you."

    These ascenders, individuals of immense resolve, stood at the pinnacle of the world. In spirit, they surpassed many natives of the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    All theycked were resources and opportunities.

    "Immortal, may we have the honor of your name?" an elderly ascender inquired."Go forth," she replied curtly, gesturing toward the void below.

    With that, the Ascension Pool found a moment of peace.

    The young girl in white hovered midair, then turned to look towards a young man in white standing not far away.

    It was Yun Xiao. At the sight of him, her elegant brows furrowed slightly, like an annoyed little white tiger, and a faint <em>King</em> character seemed to wrinkle upon her forehead.

    She parted her lips to ask, "Did you have a hand in what happened back in the Thunder Department?"

    Yun Xiao, his lips curling into a smile, responded, "Your appearance here, is it to clear up trouble for me?"

    The Longevity Immortal had been overseeing his receiving of incense offerings. And now with his death, dys were inevitable.

    "I asked; you answer. No need for questions," the girl in white stated firmly.

    "She''s fiercer now," Yun Xiao said, his tone tinged with an unexpected fondness.

    Despite her fierceness, the girl in white was undeniably charming, her anger only making her appear endearingly fierce.

    "I have no desire to speak further," she dered, turning to leave.

    "Lil Xi!" Yun Xiao called after her, his voice deep with sincerity. "You are Chen Xi, Lian Xi, and also the Seventh Princess. Since the oue was favorable, why can you not forgive me? You know it too. Us working together could more quickly resolve the woes of this world."

    "I don''t need you. Just don''t make trouble!" she retorted sharply, ring at him. She sniffled, her lips pursed in anger, and used, "Smelling of milk, and still asking for forgiveness?"

    With those final words, she vanished without a trace, not wishing to linger another moment.

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao paused, bewildered, then sniffed himself, questioning the little ck beast nestled in his arms, "Is the smell really that noticeable?"

    "Those who don''t share don''t deserve mypany!" Red Moon huffed, puffing his cheeks.

    "Poor little Reddy. While you were feasting on milk inside the cabin, he was left <em>snake wrangling</em> outside," Blue Star joked with a snicker.

    "Well then, today''s a poor day for apologies," Yun Xiao resigned himself. He then let out a sigh. "That woman, thunder Emissary Cao¡­ she really did lead me astray."

    Suddenly, the girl in white reappeared before him.

    "Lil Xi¡­!"

    "Shut up!" she snapped coldly. "I only returned to warn you. For the sake of the Immortal Asylum, Lu Fan is colluding with the Immortal Devils of the Celestial Devildom."

    "The Celestial Devildom?" This was the rumored realm of Immortal Devils.

    Yun Xiao knew only a little about this ce, having brushed up on it briefly. He wanted to ask more, but the girl in white clearly had no desire to engage further and vanished again.

    "Well then," Yun Xiao muttered, ncing over the ruins of the Ascension Pool, his gaze finally resting on a shattered gourd.

    "Huh, is his lingering spirit still here?"

    He reached out and shaped the remnants of the gourd into a form, its eyes and mouth appearing¡ªit was none other than the Longevity Immortal.

    "Longevity Immortal, did you hear all?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Lu Yao, spare me, I''ll join you two!" the lingering spirit of the Longevity Immortal pleaded.

    Yun Xiao chuckled and shook his head, saying, "Unfortunately, my name isn''t Lu Yao."

    "Then who are you?" The Longevity Immortal''s eyes widened in surprise.

    "You might have forgotten. But a few days ago, two young ascenders, a young man and a girl, came here. You tried to stew them, but they didn''t perish. We were swept near Sky Soaring City together," Yun Xiao said with a coldugh.

    The Longevity Immortal was speechless, his spirit stifled as he rummaged through his memories, finding a flicker of that incident.

    Back then, he was so high above them, why would he pay attention to these ascenders who were mere ingredients?

    "And then?" the Longevity Immortal asked, his voice trembling.

    "The young man took on the name of Lu Yao and became the Immortal Tournament Champion, and the girl became the Seventh Princess, just the one who ttened you," Yun Xiao exined with a smile.

    "Ah..." Longevity Immortal''s face was a mask of horror, his mind reeling with fear.

    "I forgot to mention, the people from the Thunder Department who died yesterday were all killed by me."

    It was karma! At this moment, not even the fiercest storms could describe the turmoil within the Longevity Immortal.

    After delivering his deration, Yun Xiao granted the Longevity Immortal''s spirit a thorough exorcism.

    Then he stood up, contemting his next moves.

    "The incense offerings of a thousand stars are dyed, and suspicions only grow. It''s getting too hard to hide." Yun Xiao wanted to blend in, but the Celestial Court was a dye vat, and his white robes made it too difficult to y his part.

    "If that''s the case, perhaps it''s best to return to the myriad realms and secure a future for my body double and blood ve."

    Moon Fairy and the War Princess were Yun Xiao¡¯s trump cards, and he hadn''t had the chance to prepare them. The environment of the mortal realm was too poor; even though Yun Xiao had Liu Mumu bring back many resources, it wasn''t enough to allow them to rise as he had.

    They needed to be brought out.

    But really, the main reason was... Yun Xiao missed his senior sister.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao then searched the golden treasure ship of the Longevity Immortal, found a small golden boat, boarded it, activated the Celestial Sourcecore, and burst out of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, flying towards the dim stars above.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Azure Spirit, Little Cloud Residence¡­

    Nestled beneath osmanthus trees, surrounded bynterns, stone tables, pond fish, and vibrant flowers, another sleepy afternoon unfolded.

    A graceful woman in a ck gown sat dozing by the stone table.

    Suddenly, a gentle breeze wafted through.

    The woman''s nose twitched, catching a scent that roused her from slumber. Her eyes fluttered open, and indeed, there stood a young man in white, smiling as if he carried the freshness of spring with him.

    "Why have you returned so soon after leaving?" Zhao Xuanran asked, her tone a mix of amusement and exasperation.

    "I missed home." Yun Xiao sat beside her on the ground, leaning his head against her jade-like legs, looking up at her face. "Has our child grown yet?"

    "Grown? It hasn''t evene out of my belly yet," Zhao Xuanran scoffed, her belly still t as the vastness of the skies.

    "Who knows how many worlds I''ll have to traverse before this child is born," Yun Xiao sighed.

    "What''s the hurry for them to be born? You''re still a child yourself," Zhao Xuanran chided, yfully tugging at his ear.

    "Well, you know¡­ I''m afraid I might hurt them when we''re intimate," Yun Xiao joked.

    "Stop that nonsense," Zhao Xuanran scolded lightly, sniffing him and biting her lip. "Well, even without me, it seems like you''ve been keeping yourself busy regardless, huh?"

    "Uh oh!" Yun Xiao''s vision momentarily darkened.

    How did both women have such keen noses?

    "Tell me some recent tales," Zhao Xuanran paused, her voice softening. "I''m resting for the pregnancy, nor do I deserve to experience all the drama and chaos you go through everyday. But, your senior sister here still loves to hear your stories."

    Yun Xiao always harbored confusion and frustrations, needing a listener, and Zhao Xuanran was undoubtedly the one who soothed and warmed his lonely heart the most.

    For this very reason, though she was the most humble among cultivators, no one could rece her in Yun Xiao''s heart.

    He always shed andpeted with Divine Dawn, but with his elder sister, he was forever just a younger brother.

    So Yun Xiao told her everything about his recent adventures in the Celestial Court, holding nothing back.

    Zhao Xuan listened silently, her jade-like hand gentlybing through his long hair.

    "Then you came back?" she asked softly.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao nodded, his gaze drifting up to her smooth chin as he queried, "Zhao Xuanran, monkey, human, Immortal¡ªwhat do you make of these distinctions?"

    Zhao Xuanran paused, then countered, "You''re an Immortal now, so do you think your senior sister is a monkey?"

    "I could never imagine spending a lifetime with a monkey." Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Then, there you have it." Zhao Xuanran pouted. "These lofty figures always try to create many levels, just to justify their dominance over those weaker. Even Ye Guying, a minor cultivator, dared to im he was an Immortal in front of you. This same charade ys out in every world, endlessly tiresome."

    Looking down at Yun Xiao, she continued slowly, "I think, in this world, there are no true Immortals, just people climbing the samedder. Those above look down on those below, creating a chain of scorn. I can handle disdain, but if someone tries to kick me from human to monkey, I won''t stand for it."

    "Exactly! A bunch of garbage." Yun Xiao nodded in agreement.

    "Let me give you another example," Zhao Xuanran proposed.

    "I''m listening," Yun Xiao said.

    "Can humans and monkeys reproduce together?" she asked.

    "No."

    "And Immortals and humans?" she pressed on.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "So, there you have it. As long as they can reproduce, they are all the same creature, none more noble than the others. This so-called continuation of lineage, using power to ughter one¡¯s own kind, is condemnable, and can''t be whitewashed," Zhao Xuanran dered.

    A mortal like her could see this clearly, while those so-called Immortals, for their own benefit, deceived themselves over and over again.

    The more they lied, the more they believed it to be true.

    "As for being an Immortal, I think there might only be one true Immortal in this world," Zhao Xuanran suddenly said.

    "Who?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s you," Zhao Xuanran pinched his cheek, asserting, "In my heart, you are the Immortal destined to change the world."

    Yun Xiao smiled and shook his head. "I''ve fathered a child with you, which proves that even if there were a unique, true Immortal in the universe, at the end of the day, they are human, with all the frailties of humanity..."

    As Yun Xiao spoke, a sudden realization thundered through his mind.

    Why could the highest Creator Immortal and the lowest Zhao Xuanran have a child together?

    Perhaps it meant that from the moment a Creator Immortal was reborn as himself, possessing humanity, he was indeed human...

 Chapter 650: Coming and Going Like the Wind

    Chapter 650: Coming and Going Like the Wind

    Before departing once again, Yun Xiao installed a Celestial Sourcecore above the Divine Continent and Heavenly Realm. This Sourcecore, akin to a miniature version of the sun and moon found in the Primordial Ruins, slowly released its energy into the atmosphere, elevating the level of celestial energy in this pocket world.

    So, whether it was Azure Spirit, Sea of Swords, or the Heavenly Realm itself, everyone became better suited for cultivation, and even mortals could transform and transcend.

    A tool from the Great Dao Celestial Realm, deemed trash by those in the higher ces, could be a treasure of unimaginable benefit in the mortal realm. Take, for example, the Boundary Defining Divine Needle!

    This Supreme Heaven grade celestial treasure, capable of stabilizing the spatial fabric of the myriad worlds, could prevent its destruction."

    "This vast disparity in power is one of the reasons the Celestial Court enves all beings," Yun Xiao mused.

    He had moved from the First Dao Tribtion to the Third Dao Tribtion.

    Who could say how many more Dao Tribtions awaited him on this journey to immortality?

    Yun Xiao returned to the Nine Hells. From afar, he saw the Boundary Defining Divine Needle floating in the devastated area where the Immortal Asylum once stood, emitting a vast power that fixed the fractured mountains and rivers, allowing countless beings to survive.

    "When the barriers between realms can be freely traversed, the beings of the lower realms be far too vulnerable."The Immortals reigned supreme, and the multitude bowed their heads like monkeys. Yet, the celestialdder did not lock the barriers of ss.

    Having seen the reality clearly, Yun Xiao felt no need toment but returned instead to the Primordial Ruins.

    There, Liu Mumu and Miss Yu were residing in the Primordial Academy, being hosted by Dean Yu Nichang in the Divine Dawn Pavilion.

    By now, the Primordial Ruins had returned to normal. With the descendants of the Three Immortalspletely wiped out, there was still much to be done.

    When Yun Xiao appeared suddenly, Liu Mumu and Miss Yu were overjoyed. "Little Yao, Little Yao," Miss Yu cried, clutching his hand as tears welled up in her eyes.

    Quickly, Yun Xiao produced a jade bottle and said to Liu Mumu, "Master, this elixir is brewed from a Lower Dao Heaven grade celestial fruit. It might be able to cure my mother''s eyesight. Make sure she drinks it in three parts once every day."

    "Lower Dao Heaven grade..." Liu Mumu''s lips parted in awe, aware of the rarity of anything in the Dao Heaven grade. As a Rank 8 Arbiter Commander, she knew well that such treasures typically belonged to Rank 2 Heavenly Officers of the Celestial Court.

    "Where did thise from?" Liu Mumu asked, trembling slightly as she took the pill.

    "It was a gift from the Eight Paths Cloud and Thunder General," Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    Thanks to his body double, Liu Mumu and Miss Yu knew about Yun Xiao bing the Champion of the Immortal Tournament. However, he hadn''t yet told them about him wiping out all the top brass of the Thunder Department.

    The pills were looted from Yun Yin''s remains.

    ¡°Elixir¡­¡± Miss Yu had been blind for too long, numbed to her darkness. Now, hearing there was a chance to see again, she was overwhelmed.

    Clutching Yun Xiao''s hand, she was too stirred to speak.

    ¡°The Champion, wonderful, wonderful!¡±

    It took her a while topose herself; holding back tears, she spoke with a smile.

    "I''m also a Rank 4 Thunder Emissary now. Apart from the Nine Thunders Sovereign and Gu Suwan, I''m the third highest official in the Thunder Department," Yun Xiao said with a smile."

    ¡°Third highest, that¡¯s truly wonderful¡­¡± Miss Yu nodded repeatedly.

    Liu Mumu was puzzled; reaching such a high rank before 30 years old was extraordinary. Yet, it was only one of 100 high officials in the Thunder Department¡ªhow was he third?

    ¡°How are you faring in the Celestial Court?¡± Liu Mumu asked with concern.

    When Yun Xiao first mentioned his title as Champion, Liu Mumu was too shocked to speak, only now recovering.

    ¡°It¡¯s quite good,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°I''m sure none of these privilegese for free, right?¡± she asked quietly.

    ¡°Mhm,¡± he replied.

    ¡°That puts you in a delicate position¡­¡± Liu Mumu said, worried.

    "Stepping onto this path was destined. No matter what, I must seek justice for every living person in this world,¡± Yun Xiao dered.

    This was the Primordial Ruins, where everyone had experienced the cmity wrought by the Three Immortals.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Liu Mumu was worried, but she wouldn¡¯t stop him. She muttered, ¡°I¡¯m just a bit dazed; it feels too quick. It was only a few days ago we met. Your life, it¡¯s rushed, as urgent as fire,ing and going like the wind."

    ¡°You¡¯re right, I must go now,¡± Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    ¡°Go then, Miss Yu is in my care,¡± Liu Mumu said.

    Yun Xiao walked a few steps away, then turned back, ¡°The Celestial Court is too corrupt. Once I¡¯ve cleaned it up, I¡¯ll bring you all home.¡±

    ¡°Clean it up¡­¡±

    What did it mean to clean it up? Liu Mumu dared not even imagine. She knew once Yun Xiao set foot on this path, the magnitude of his adversaries...

    All those in the Celestial Court who divided this celestial pie of the mortal realm would stand against him!

    "Hope rests with all the Heavenly Officers below Rank 6. May they bravely stand for justice by his side. Only then will the Great Dao Celestial Realm hold a chance." Liu Mumu sped her hands together, silently praying for Yun Xiao.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside, Yun Xiao encountered Dean Yu Nichang.

    This beauty, with hair as white as dreams, was in no way inferior to many a celestial maiden.

    Yun Xiao had brought her ample resources, and now she had reached the Establishment Yang Immortal Realm, nearing the ability to project her spirit and ascend to be a True Immortal.

    "Is Lil Xi not with you?" Dean Yu asked in a hushed voice.

    "No," Yun Xiao responded.

    "You haven¡¯t upset her, have you?" Dean Yu asked.

    "No worries, I¡¯ll make it right," Yun Xiao said, slightly embarrassed.

    He felt as though he was facing a parent of the woman he cared for.

    "You..." Dean Yu sighed helplessly, then added, "Go then, make it right. She has a sharp tongue but a soft heart. Just give her a bit of attention, offer her an out, and she¡¯lle around."

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    But what Dean Yu didn''t know was that now Divine Dawn had be three people.

    Yun Xiao himself was somewhat unclear about her changed nature.

    "Go then."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    After bidding farewell to Dean Yu and leaving the myriad worlds, Yun Xiao took threepanions with him!

    They were Moon Fairy, the War Princess, and Pale Revenant.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    He switched to a sword vessel with seats for ten, which also had three single-seat vessels attached.

    Within the sword vessel, Moon Fairy sat in a corner, his eyes vacant, lost in thought, while Pale Revenant, barefoot and demure, stood quietly to the side.

    Yun Xiao faced the War Princess directly.

    Although it had been several days since theyst met, Yun Xiao''s Mortal Dust Devil Seed was with her constantly, allowing them to converse daily. The young woman before him, having achieved the Third Dao Tribtion of a True Devil and nourished by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, had grown increasingly enchanting and seductive.

    Young in years but not in presence, the War Princess surpassed even Thunder Emissary Cao in height, figure, and allure. Her devilish physique, more robust and curvaceous than that of a human, boasted legs and a waist whose curves were striking.

    Her blood dragon horns and dark red eyes lent her an exotic charm, a blend of foreignnds and races.

    The War Princess and Thunder Emissary Cao might appear simr. However, the two were entirely different. Cao Shuo was a mature,zy seductress with a stubborn streak.

    Meanwhile, the War Princess radiated the fiery vigor of youth. She was robust and vigorous. Her vitality was forceful. Though she wasn''t as supple as Cao Shuo, she possessed an addictive resilience and firmness.

    Her tongue, when extended, could reach over three inches long, a captivating highlight.

    She was a wild and untamable female devil!

    Having not disciplined her for several days, her gaze towards Yun Xiao now held an unmistakable annoyance and resentment.

    "What''s up?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "What''s that scent on you? It''s not Zhao Xuanran, nor that little white tiger girl." the War Princess pouted, visibly irritated.

    "God dammit¡­!" Yun Xiao sighed internally¡ªall three women had noses like hounds!

    "Those celestial maidens and the Empress Dowager, they¡¯re beautiful, aren¡¯t they?" she probed, jealousy apparent.

    "It¡¯s none of your business," Yun Xiao shot back with a re.

    "So flirtatious, I hope it serves you right," she muttered bitterly, biting her lip.

    Yun Xiao regarded her with an air of a dominant master.

    Startled, the War Princess stepped back, wary, "There are others here, don''t you dare start something."

    Hearing this, Pale Revenant turned into a mist, effectively hiding herself.

    As for Moon Fairy, being merely a body double, he remained in a state of deep sleep, unresponsive.

    "Enough!" the War Princess bit her lip, "I¡¯m not so easy. Just don''t get any fun ideas, and I''ll listen to whatever orders you have."

    "You think too much." Yun Xiao, tired of the banter, paused before continuing, "You and my body double have been growing too slowly in the mortal realm. I brought you out this time because I have other ns."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 651: A Life Worth Living!

    Chapter 651: A Life Worth Living!

    "Wasn''t it to the Great Dao Celestial Realm that we were headed?" The War Princess bit her red lips, a hint of loss coloring her demeanor.

    Evidently, she preferred to stay by Yun Xiao''s side. To her, Yun Xiao''s fox demon body double seemed no more himself than a stranger; she''d rather converse with the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in her heart than waste words on that duplicate.

    "Apparently, above the Great Dao Celestial Realm is a gxy-like abyss called Naraka, where two great forces independent of the Celestial Court reign. These two forces are the Demon Immortals and Devil Fiends. Simply, it''s just demons and devils. I hear they''ve even set their sights on the Immortal Asylum," Yun Xiao exined.

    "So, you n to send your body double to the Demon Immortals, and me to the Devil Fiends?" the War Princess asked.

    "On one hand, it''s to witness firsthand the power structure and strength levels of Naraka, as well as their true intentions. It''s to determine friend from foe. On the other hand, the deste essence and richer devil blood there suits you better than the Celestial Court¡ªit''s more conducive to the growth of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood and Divine Destion Physique."

    "You''re setting me loose again!" The War Princess ground her teeth in frustration, resentment written all over her face. "I''m only at the early steps of the Third Dao Tribtion, and look how attractive I am! Yet. you''re sending me alone into air of devils¡ªaren''t you afraid I''ll be..."

    "I''m always with you, aren''t I? Rest assured, if anything happens, you won''t need to think," Yun Xiao replied coolly.

    "What good does that do if we identally encounter a devil that''s too powerful?" the War Princess pouted.

    "Then you''ll just die, and I''ll simply find a male devil to create a new body double," Yun Xiao joked with a smile.At this, the War Princess felt her chest might explode with fury.

    After all she had done for him, yet he was still so heartless!

    "Enough, I''m just teasing you," Yun Xiao suddenly said with a gentle smile. "With me in your heart, even if you were to walk through a mountain of knives or a sea of fire, you should fear nothing. I, Yun Xiao, have promised to carry you to the pinnacle of the Dao Realm without letting anyone touch a single <em>devil</em> hair on you."

    These words initially moved the War Princess deeply, almost melting her resolve, but thest part reignited her irritation.

    "Just call it hair, why emphasize<em></em>the <em>devil</em>!" the War Princess snapped, her pretty face tight with annoyance.

    "I''ve heard devils are a type of human too. I wonder if we could have children?" Yun Xiao curiously asked.

    "Go to hell..." The War Princess had lost all desire to speak further.

    Looking every bit the ethereal Immortal, why did Yun Xiao always delight in teasing her so?

    Was it fun? Of course it was!

    Yun Xiao suddenly pped her on the backside. Then, he was taken aback. The curvature and sticity were indeed unmatched by any woman. She was truly a devil!

    "What are you doing?" the War Princess''s Mortal Dust Devil Blood surged, her heart pounding, her skin instantly flushing a deep red.

    This was also the unique charm of a Yin Devil.

    Emotions turned her deeply red, her skin radiating a warm aura, as if smoke was rising from her pores.

    "Beauty and intoxication abound in the mortal realm; this life has not been lived in vain," Yun Xiao suddenly reflected.

    Had he never met Ye Guying and remained just the Emperor of the Cloud Nation his whole life. Let alone this exotic Yin Devil princess, but also Divine Dawn or even Zhao Xuanran¡­ all of these women would be beyond his reach.

    Yun Xiao would merely be fit for a few bowls of murky wine from the Cloud Nation. He''d never get to enjoy delicacies like Daughter''s Red or Tiger Rod Wine.

    This life of greed, wrath, foolishness, and lust was quite delightful!

    Yun Xiao''s greed represented his yearning for the Dao; wrath for his anger at the injustices of the world; foolishness for his unyielding will; and lust as the root of his love and hate!

    "These four things together are what make life worth living!"

    A life without thrill was no life at all!

    <em>VROOM! </em>The sword vessel burst forth from the myriad worlds, speeding toward the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Approaching their destination, Yun Xiao brought out the two smaller, single-person sword vessels.

    Without a word, Moon Fairy took control of one and headed straight for the direction of Naraka.

    Though the body double and the War Princess were both destined for Naraka, their paths diverged.

    "Is she following you?" the War Princess, about to depart, cast a resentful nce at Pale Revenant.

    "What, jealous?" Yun Xiao said, pushing her onto her.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Hmph!" The War Princess, pressed forward, felt a strange sensation flood her body, like an electric shock.

    "Off you go."

    With another push from Yun Xiao, her sword vessel also took flight.

    So, within therger sword vessel, only Yun Xiao and Pale Revenant remained.

    "You''re thick with the scent of death again; before we enter the Celestial Court, let me give you another cleansing," Yun Xiao offered.

    "Yes!" Pale Revenant approached respectfully and knelt before Yun Xiao.

    She still wore her ragged, tattered clothes, bearing the appearance of the 13-year-old girl who was thrown into the deep sea years ago. She was barely as tall as Yun Xiao''s chest.

    As Yun Xiao used the Prison Warden Sigil to cleanse the deathly aura from her body, she seemed toe alive, infused with a newfound vitality.

    "Is there a way to make her truly alive?" Yun Xiao asked openly in front of Pale Revenant, turning to Blue Star.

    "Brother, she''s a corpse. Have you gone mad with your desire for a tender young girl? Although she retains her youthful appearance, she is essentially an amalgamation of countless corpses from the deep sea, a demon. When you can turn a stone into a person, then perhaps you can make her human," Blue Star scoffed.

    "True to form, our bro loves all types." Red Moon chuckled.

    "You''re one to talk! You''re driven by appetite, him by lust; are those the same?" Blue Star pped his own belly.

    The bickering continued in all directions.

    Meanwhile, Pale Revenant, listening to their conversation, bowed her head and nervously fidgeted with her skirt, swaying from side to side, not daring to speak.

    "The Ascension Pool is broken, a perfect chance to sneak you in." Yun Xiao looked down at her small face and whispered, "This time, you''ll get to taste the corpses of True Immortals!"

    Pale Revenant knelt down, her body low to the ground, whispering, "Be it god, mortal, demon, or devil, I''ll consume anything you tell me to!"

    "Good, rise," Yun Xiao said, pulling her by the arm, "You''ve suffered a lot. But from now on, your life of hardship is over. Your bowl will be filled with rare beasts and supreme celestial demons."

    Tears welled in Pale Revenant''s eyes as she said, "In this endless universe, I have only one wish."

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Even if I perish, I hope it will be by your side."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At a wooden hut on the outskirts of the Thunder Department¡­

    <em>THUD! </em>Yun Xiao gently pushed open the door, only to find Cao Shuo sprawled naked on the floor in a <em>spread-eagle</em> position, still deep in slumber.

    Yun Xiao felt a bit embarrassed and covered Pale Revenant''s eyes.

    Peeking through the fingers, Pale Revenant nced at Cao Shuo''s rugged body, then down at herself, slightly bewildered.

    "Lu Yao, you have an illegitimate daughter?" Cao Shuo asked, aware of his arrival but too lethargic to rise.

    She hadn''t sensed Pale Revenant''s presence, otherwise, she wouldn''t have been so casual.

    In a blink, she was properly dressed, squeezing out a smile at Pale Revenant, "Hello, little one, I''m your Aunt Cao."

    "She''s a demon," Yun Xiao said tly.

    At his words, Cao Shuo froze, and the two small serpents coiled around her ears also recoiled in shock, sniffing closer only to twitch violently.

    "A corpse demon! A corpse demon!" the serpents shrieked.

    The very kind of corpse demon, regardless of the realm, that instilled fear in other demons.

    A weak corpse demon was manageable, but one under protection was a limitless threat.

    "This little sister is a corpse demon¡­?" Cao Shuo said, still astonished.

    "Hello, Aunt Cao," Pale Revenant replied sweetly.

    "Cough, cough," Cao Shuo pulled Yun Xiao aside and asked, "This little sister, she wouldn''t happen to be one of your women, too? Your taste in partners is quite broad, isn''t it?"

    "Don''t talk nonsense." Yun Xiao red at her, then said, "She''ll stay with you for a while; I have to deal with the Nine Thunders Sovereign."

    "Oh, weren''t you going to receive incense offerings?" Cao Shuo remembered and asked.

    "Are you still sleepy? The Celestial Court''s in chaos; the Seventh Princess destroyed the Ascension Pool and even ughtered the Longevity Immortal," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Hmm?" Cao Shuo raised an eyebrow, "You and Divine Dawn have a thing?"

    "Why do you always focus on such things?" Yun Xiao asked, exasperated.

    Cao Shuo paused, then her gaze drifted downward on Yun Xiao, murmuring, "A woman''s nature... is to guard her territory¡­!"

    "Enough, I don''t have time for this. I''m off." Yun Xiao left, but then suddenly turned back to warn Cao Shuo, "Don''t teach her anything weird!"

    "Would I do that?" Cao Shuo replied with a coy smile.

    Once Yun Xiao was gone, she scrutinized Pale Revenant up and down.

    Pale Revenant still looked at her, puzzled.

    "So cute." Cao Shuo pinched her cheek, then softly asked, "Little one, what would you like to eat? I''ll make you something."

    Unspoken yet understood, at the mention, Pale Revenant''s stomach growled. She blushed, a bit embarrassed, "Aunt Cao, I''d like to eat meat. Raw meat."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Nine Thunders Origin Pce, this was the residence of the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    The Celestial Court was currently in a state of panic. It wasn''t just the Thunder Department, but a nerve-wracking tension hung over the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm, as if a storm was approaching.

    Yun Xiao pushed open the door and announced, "Sovereign, Lu Yao requests an audience."

 Chapter 652: Two Pests Trying to Play Hero!

    Chapter 652: Two Pests Trying to y Hero!

    "Enter." The voice of the Nine Thunders Sovereign echoed through the halls of the Nine Thunders Origin Pce.

    The reverberations made it clear that following the death of the 10,000 officials of the Thunder Department, this core area was nearly deserted.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign had lost not only his daughter but also more than 130 of his n members and family officials.

    The entire n, save for the old and weak, was decimated, leaving him the sole survivor!

    Even many prodigies from the Grand Firmament Academy, who were studying there, had vanished without a trace!

    This was undoubtedly the most tragic moment in the life of the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign¡ªno one couldprehend his grief.

    Even the promise by the White Emperor to help rebuild the Thunder Department could not restore the foundations and enterprises built by countless generations of his ancestors!

    The newly assigned officials from the frontier, with theirplex backgrounds, were unlikely to seamlessly integrate into the Thunder Department.

    Put simply, those who volunteered toe were merely after the money and positions now vacant in the Thunder Department, which enticed many.In such a setting, Yun Xiao stepped into the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Pce!

    Crossing a corridor nked by violet thunder pirs, he entered a courtyard enveloped by celestial mist.

    In the courtyard, a young man with violet hair stood with his hands behind his back in front of a rockery, his back to Yun Xiao, hiding his expression.

    But one could faintly sense that the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s mood was exceedingly somber.

    There was none of the thunderous fury Yun Xiao had expected.

    "Sovereign, I have returned," Yun Xiao stated calmly at the entrance of the courtyard.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign did not turn around but asked, "What news from the Longevity Immortal?"

    Yun Xiao answered honestly, "On my way to the mortal realm, passing by the Ascension Pool, the Longevity Immortal found someone causing trouble and asked me to stay on his vessel."

    "And then?" The Nine Thunders Sovereign still did not turn, his tone rtively calm.

    After all, the Longevity Immortal wasn''t one of his own.

    "You must have heard by now. The Longevity Immortal was in by the Seventh Princess, and the Ascension Pool was destroyed."

    Yun Xiao added with a hint of helplessness, "The Seventh Princess'' strength might match that of a Rank 1 Heavenly Officer. I admit I am no match for her and could not save the Longevity Immortal. I abandoned the vessel to escape, to avoid furtherplications."

    "You turned deserter?" The tone of the Nine Thunders Sovereign rose slightly, seemingly displeased.

    Yun Xiao responded, "I have a greater destiny to fulfill, and there was no need to perish in that moment. Besides, I am an Arbiter of the Thunder Department; I need not die alongside the Longevity Immortal."

    "Very well!" The Nine Thunders Sovereign, upon hearing this, did not get angry but turned around, his eyes softening as he regarded Yun Xiao. "I will report to the Celestial Court exactly as you have told me."

    "Thank you," Yun Xiao replied.

    "You, the Immortal Tournament Champion, to retreat without a fight in the face of a high criminal of the Celestial Court¡­ naturally, it will stain your reputation," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said sternly.

    "Life is more important than reputation," Yun Xiao stated.

    "That''s true." The Nine Thunders Sovereign actually smiled. "A true man must indeed know when to bend and when to stand."

    With that, he seemed to let the matter go and said, "Regarding the matter of the incense offerings, the Emperor will likely send someone to assist you. For the next few days, wait here in the Thunder Department for further notice."

    "Understood!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Go then," the Nine Thunders Sovereign gestured dismissively.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "This humble Immortal takes his leave." Yun Xiao retreated. As he left, his demeanor was somewhat peculiar.

    "I thought I was headed into a storm of des and mes, but to slip through so easily?" Yun Xiao mused.

    "Yeah, how convenient. The Thunder Immortal Formation malfunctions for the first time in history and wipes out almost all 10,000 Rank 6 and above officials of the Thunder Department. But somehow you survive. And just as you''re about to go down to the mortal realm to receive incense offerings, a cmity strikes the Ascension Pool. The Longevity Immortal and all his subordinates are all wiped out. But yet again, you somehow survived." Blue Star rolled his eyes with a sarcastic click of his tongue.

    "You''re mistaken," Yun Xiao said quietly, his brow low. "His apparent trust in me only shows he''s got his eyes on me. But when even the Chaos Sovereigncked the power to kill me, he''d only waste hisst chance by acting rashly alone."

    Active conflict often meant the danger was actually lower.

    But no conflict and smooth agreement meant there was a trap being set in the background!

    "What will they try next?" Blue Star wondered aloud.

    "I don''t know. I need to think over where there might be a w."

    The trust of the Nine Thunders Sovereign was a sure sign something was amiss!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Pce.

    After Yun Xiao had departed, the Nine Thunders Sovereign walked towards the inner sanctum with a frosty demeanor.

    Deep within, a young man in a golden robe and a golden dragon crown sat; it was the Celestial Court''s Crown Prince.

    The Crown Prince''s gaze followed Yun Xiao through the crack of the door, his voice a quiet murmur, "He didn''t react, which means he overlooked Gu Sutao."

    "Gu Sutao barely revealed his secrets before Yun Yin dealt with her. Of all the Immortals who know about his true origins, only Gu Suwan remains," the Nine Thunders Sovereign dered.

    "Have you sent someone to investigate?" the Crown Prince asked coldly.

    "Of course, the two belong to the mortal realm where the Immortal Asylum was found. A young man named Yun Xiao and a girl named Lian Xi¡­ these two eliminated the three Incense Immortals assigned to that mortal realm. Then, they borrowed the sword vessel of a Rank 9 Arbiter called Lu An and snuck into the Great Dao Celestial Realm. The young man took on the identity of Lu Yao, and the girl took on the identity of the recently deceased Seventh Princess," the Nine Thunders Sovereign exined.

    "A true miracle..." The Crown Prince squinted his eyes, his gaze filled with jealousy, murderous intent, and deep wariness.

    "The extraordinary emergence of these two mortals must be linked to the Immortal Asylum, underscoring that the Asylum is a pinnacle treasure capable of altering the Great Dao Celestial Realm," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said deeply.

    "Indeed." The Crown Prince nced at the Nine Thunders Sovereign. "Your people didn¡¯t stir up trouble in that mortal realm, did they? This boy and that fake princess still don''t realize we''ve uncovered their true identities and motives."

    "He just returned from the mortal realm without any odd urrences, indicating we haven¡¯t startled the serpent," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said.

    "I¡¯m aware of the world that birthed the Immortal Asylum. I thought it was merely an empty shell, insignificant. Yet unexpectedly, it spawned two pests that dare to open their greedy maws at my Celestial Court!"

    The Crown Prince¡¯s smile was cold and venomous. He then looked at the Nine Thunders Sovereign, asking, "How important, do you think, is their homnd to him?"

    "Surprisingly important, from what I know. In that world, he¡¯s quite the legend¡ªa mere mortal, yes, but likely with family, wives, and children all residing there," the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied.

    "What a fortuitous discovery!" The Crown Princeughed heartily. "Two make-believe heroes, stumbling upon fortune,e to my Celestial Court to avenge other lesser beings. The boy really is talented. His discourse on the theory of monkeys and Immortals almost had me fooled yesterday."

    "His acting ismendable; even the Chaos Sovereign might have been deceived by him," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said tly.

    "But this individual, his weaknesses and ws are too significant to be of any concern." The Crown Prince shook his head, his eyes showing disdain and greed.

    "Indeed. That mortal realm is his greatest weakness. By grasping this, no matter how high he jumps here, we can always seize control of his fate," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said coldly, his eyes flickering with rage.

    "Not just that. Since he and the fake princess insist on setting their lives for themoners and seeking justice for the vermin, all the vermin of the lower are his weakness. Their so-called great endeavor is doomed to be a moth''s flight into the me, a death trap. The moment he involves himself with that swarm, even if he were a reincarnated immortal emperor, he''d still be on a path to certain death," the Crown Prince said with a chilling, coldugh.

    He was born looking like a saintly prince, usually radiant as the sun. But in the moments of his sinisterughter, he appeared ghastly, as if his face were smeared with white powder.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign grasped the meaning of the Crown Prince''s words.

    The Celestial Court''s <em>husbandry</em> in the mortal realm had long be unshakable. Compared to the True Immortals, the cultivators in the First and Second Dao Tribtions were far too fragile.

    Avenging the tofu?

    As long as Yun Xiao was afraid of the tofu being smashed, he¡¯d never win.

    If threatening one life didn''t work, they''d just threaten a hundred casually, and several lives wouldn''t be enough!

    "Simply crushing a few mortal realms was enough to lure my defiant seventh sister to her death. These two impostors, having tasted a bit of the Immortal Asylum''s power, dare to y the clown?"

    The Crown Princeughed continuously from his throne.

    "Crown Prince, I suspect the Thunder Immortal Formation''s malfunction is rted to this kid. He once took over the formation with his spirit. You should leave the Thunder Department soon to prevent this kid from a desperate final act," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said earnestly.

    "Hmm," the Crown Prince nodded and then looked at the Nine Thunders Sovereign, "What will the Thunder Department do if he pushes us to the brink with his death?"

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign''s gaze was solemn, "The eternal rule of the Celestial Court, under the threat of Lu Fan and these two pests, has entered an era of unprecedented change. I and the Thunder Department are willing to die to maintain the Emperor and the Prince''s reign for thousands of generations!"

    "Well!" The Crown Prince looked deeply at the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    In these trying times, he needed men like the Nine Thunders Sovereign, who gambled on a chance for revenge and a more glorious future.

    "However..." the Crown Prince stood up, gently patted the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s shoulder, and smiled, "I don''t n to show my hand to this kid directly."

    "What do you mean?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign asked.

    The Crown Prince furrowed his brow, "The Celestial Court currently faces two major challenges. These two pests are merely talented but not significant in scale; their threat is future-oriented. The real challenge is Lu Fan. He''s not like those two soft-hearted kids. He doesn¡¯t discriminate between good and evil, uses any means necessary, acts ruthlessly, selfishly, and for his ends, would sacrifice not just all beings but even his family. He even seized the Great Dao Celestial Army and truly poses a threat to the Heavenly Pce."

    "Indeed." The Nine Thunders Sovereign also frowned, his expression very somber.

    "If we deal with these two saintly martyrs first, there is still some risk. For example, the cmity of your Thunder Department was a significant loss, and I am to me. I only thought to use Cao Shuo to intimidate others, not anticipating this twist... What I mean is, in a three-way power struggle, even if the third party is weaker and easier to handle, if we attack them first, we might end up facing a two-against-one situation. This is a grave error!" the Crown Prince stated solemnly.

    "So you mean, since we already have a grip on the weaknesses of those two kids, there''s no rush. We might as well let them and Lu Fan fight, possibly revealing more of their cards. Being prepared, we might reap the benefits as the fishermen?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign asked.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 653: Big Dog Biting the Little Dog

    Chapter 653: Big Dog Biting the Little Dog

    "This Yun Xiao¡­ We could use him to our advantage. After all, he even destroyed Lu Fan''s body double," the Crown Prince said.

    "I fear they might end up uniting in their conflict," the Nine Thunders Sovereign murmured.

    "Impossible," the Crown Prince retorted, giving the Nine Thunders Sovereign a piercing look. "You truly don¡¯t understand Lu Fan. The man respects no bounds; he''ll do anything, convinced of his divine destiny. In his eyes, everyone else is a viin, a mere stepping stone. Such a man, when confronted with someone of superior talent, only bes more twisted inside."

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign felt the truth in those words. If the Chaos Sovereign was not utterlywless, how else could he have earned his title?

    "Remember when he first rose to power? A high-ranking celestial family once offended him. He ughtered all the men of that family, took the women he fancied, and even exhumed and burned the bones of their ancestors... And when someone spoke up for that family, he went straight to their estate and killed tens of thousands more," the Nine Thunders Sovereign recounted with a shake of his head.

    "My father raised a tiger, only to have it turn on him today. This Lu Fan has always been troublesome... That''s why I say, let him continue shing with these two pests trying to y hero. Lu Fan ims to be the chosen one, doesn¡¯t he? Well, let''s use a hero to defeat a hero. Let them tear each other apart, and when one emerges victorious, that¡¯s when we enter the fray," the Crown Prince stated coldly.

    "If Lu Fan wins, at least he''ll be weakened. If those two pests prevail..." the Nine Thunders Sovereign paused, then chuckled, "that would be even better news."

    Because in their eyes, Yun Xiao and Lian Xi were incredibly easy to handle. It was just like Divine Dawn, the deceased Seventh Princess. All they had to do was target her weakness, and she waspletely helpless.

    The Crown Prince recalled the choice he gave to the Seventh Princess. Either she died or several mortal realms would be destroyed. She was only given ten breaths to make a decision. If she had chosen not to die, things would have been even simpler. After all, there were plenty of mortal realms glimmering in the sky

    The Crown Prince was skilled in the art of wearing down foes. His immortality afforded him countless victims over eons through this very tactic.

    From that moment on, he defined Yun Xiao as an enemy who posed no threat whatsoever.

    Just as he spoke these words, the Nine Thunders Sovereign received a flying talisman!

    He opened it andughed.

    "Perfect timing," said the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    "Let''s hear it," the Crown Prince asked with a smile.

    "After being humiliated at the Immortal Tournament, it seems Lu Fan has been holding a grudge ever since. No sooner had he heard that almost all the officials of my Thunder Department werepletely wiped out, he dispatched assassins under hismand to sneak in!" the Nine Thunders Sovereign said with a coldugh.

    "The big dog hase to bite the little dog. How many havee?" the Crown Prince inquired.

    "Not enough hands to count. We only know many have entered," the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied.

    "Lu Fan has gathered all manner of fierce and peculiar beings across the Great Dao Celestial Realm, including some devils from Naraka. With his capabilities, killing a pest should be easy for him. We might have to lend a hand if necessary. Let the pest grow a bit, catch its breath, so it can continue the fight," the Crown Prince stated.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign shook his head. "You underestimate him. Lu Fan failed to kill himst time, and now he''s back to test the waters again. Moreover, I suspect Yun Xiao is capable of controlling the Thunder Immortal Formation. It won¡¯t be easy to kill him. We should just watch."

    "Alright," the Crown Prince took a deep breath, then curiously asked, "So, you''re just going to let him freely use the Thunder Immortal Foundation?"

    "I''m not sure yet. I n to stay at the heart of the formation to understand its workings better and find a way to break it. This is a national treasure of the Celestial Court; we can''t let the kid misuse it," the Nine Thunders Sovereign stated coldly.

    "Lu Fan hasn''tunched his attack yet. You better hurry and take care of another matter," the Crown Prince said darkly.

    "At yourmand." the Nine Thunders Sovereign nodded.

    "First, anchor your Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron above Yun Xiao''s home realm," the Crown Prince instructed.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign nodded. "First, we secure the cricket''s life in our hands, then let it into the arena. Whether it loses or wins, we win."

    "An apt metaphor." The Crown Prince cracked a wide smile. Perhaps he smiled too broadly, for it pulled at the powder on his face, and as it ked off, it revealed his pale, wrinkled skin beneath.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "So, this is Naraka¡­"

    In the dim, boundless void of space, a silver-haired youth floated. He was dressed in a flowing silver robe, fox ears perched atop his head, and nine fox tails swishing behind him. It was Yun Xiao''s body double, Moon Fairy.

    After cultivating the Will of Divine Destion for so long, the presence of Yun Xiao''s body double had grown increasingly outstanding. He was ambiguous in gender, beguiling yet beautiful. Whether man or woman, any onlooker''s heart might flutter at the sight.

    Yet a change marred his wless face, disrupting this beauty. Beneath his eyes, two narrow, sallow eyes split open! It was a face with four eyes, and it was indescribably eerie.

    All four eyes now stared straight ahead!

    Before him, in the starry void, a vast vortex emerged, made of starlight with edges of shattered stars, circling like a ster halo.

    At its center were swirls of ck and white, two interlocking fish of yin and yang!

    This Taiji Yin-Yang Vortex, the heart of Naraka, represented a fractured and chaotic Celestial Sourcecore.

    "The ck eye of the white fish and the white eye of the ck fish are the entrances to the demon and devil territories respectively."

    And so, Moon Fairy''s four eyes settled on the ck eye of the white fish, his next destination!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "The problem is, I don''t belong to the demon territory. Entering uninvited might expose me," Moon Fairy murmured.

    "Quit your whining and just go. If you die, it''s on me," the Nian growled.

    "To hell with that," Moon Fairy retorted.

    "Hurry up, I''ve already gone mad staying in the mortal realm for so long," the Nian raged, restless within the Moon Fairy.

    "Quiet! Someone''sing!" Moon Fairy suddenly said.

    With a curse, the Nian withdrew its eyes, and Moon Fairy returned to his original appearance.

    He turned to see, through the swirling mists of the void, a celestial pnquin enveloped in dense fog, surrounded by lush, beautiful flowers and the sounds of enchanting music and dance, which befuddled the mind.

    And on the pnquin, a que read Lunar Demon Cavern.

    Caught off guard, Moon Fairy didn''t dodge in time and stood frozen.

    <em>BOOM!</em> The celestial pnquin raced through the void, nearly crashing into him, but halted just in time.

    Exhaling sharply, a stunningly attractive and seductive celestial fox stepped out from the pnquin, her annoyance apparent as she eyed Moon Fairy. "Where did this little foxe from? Move aside," shemanded.

    Moon Fairy''s eyes sparkled, and he quickly bowed. "This little fox greets the youngdy,"

    "Do you recognize me, a celestial fox from the Great Dao Celestial Realm?" Wuqing asked.

    "Yes! I am one of your devout admirers." Moon Fairy nodded vigorously.

    Wuqing nced at him and smiled slightly. "Well, you look decent enough. Come in."

    "Go in?" Moon Fairy hadn''t expected to blend in so easily. Without dy, he followed her into the pnquin, which then set off.

    Inside a misty celestial corridor, Wuqing walked ahead, her figure swaying captivatingly, drawing the eyes irresistibly.

    The Nian red fiercely a few times.

    "We''re representing the Great Dao Celestial Realm at the Celestial Demon Conference," Wuqing spoke softly from ahead.

    "Youngdy, I wish to serve you," Moon Fairy said.

    Wuqing looked back at him with a derisive sneer and pointed to the side. "Go line up over there."

    Startled, Moon Fairy looked to the side and saw a small house crowded with about a hundred other celestial foxes, both male and female, all young and tender.

    Their mood seemed low as they stood obediently, heads down, silent.

    Moon Fairy had no choice but to enter the small house.

    He asked a charming foxdy next to him, "Sister, what are we doing at the Celestial Demon Conference?"

    The foxdy gave him a long look and said, "Don''t you know? We''re here to serve the great demons of the Celestial Demon Abyss."

    "Damn it," Moon Fairy thought, realizing why he had been so easily allowed on board.

    It turned out he was brought along because he looked good, merely to be given away as a favor to serve some demon sugar mama.

 Chapter 654: Twin Ponytails, Demon Maid!

    Chapter 654: Twin Ponytails, Demon Maid!

    Back in the Thunder Department, Yun Xiao emerged from the Nine Thunders Origin Pce and made his way towards the wooden cabin where Cao Shuo resided.

    As expected, he was followed. Likely, they suspected that Cao Shuo was not truly dead, and sought to drag him out into the open.

    The Thunder Department was critically short on manpower, and the skills of the pursuer werecking. With an effortless flick of his sword, Yun Xiao sent his de sailing a thousand meters, severing the follower''s head without a sound before moving on.

    Before long, Yun Xiao returned to the secluded wooden cabin nestled in the mountain''s lush ravine.

    Cao Shuo, who was monitoring the surroundings with her spirit, knew instantly of his return.

    Before he even reached the cabin, the wooden door creaked open, revealing two figures¡ªone tall, one short, like a mother and daughter poised in the doorway.

    There stood Thunder Emissary Cao, her curls falling to her chest, a violet dress clinging to her like a serpent, with tiny snakes coiled around her ears, lending her an allureced with venom.

    Her charm as the seductress of the Thunder Department was familiar to Yun Xiao, who found no surprise in it.

    What did surprise him was Pale Revenant.His gaze drifted downward to see Pale Revenant, no longer in tattered clothes but dressed in a ck and white dress, her legs sheathed in white stockings, her hair tied in twin ponytails. She looked up at Yun Xiao with bashful eyes.

    ¡°Twin ponytails, white stockings, a maid''s attire?¡± Yun Xiao paused, bewildered.

    ¡°It was Auntie Cao¡¯s doing¡­¡± Pale Revenant murmured, somewhat embarrassed.

    Thunder Emissary Cao shed a knowing smile and said, ¡°Don¡¯t y coy; I know what men like.¡±

    "..." Yun Xiao found himself at a loss for words.

    It was clear that Thunder Emissary Cao held some affection for Pale Revenant, a sign of her cleverness and broad-mindedness, marking her as someone worth befriending.

    She seemed quite pleased with her handiwork, squatting down to adjust arge bow on Pale Revenant¡¯s back and pinching her cheek. ¡°Truly a top-grade little demon pet.¡±

    She too had her own little demon pets, those serpent earrings on her ears.

    In the Celestial Court, it was fashionable among the nobility to keep such demon pets, valued not for strength but for the rarity of their lineage.

    This was precisely why Yun Xiao had chosen to keep Pale Revenant close at hand, even parading her through the streets openly.

    Every notable figure had a demon pet; as the Immortal Champion, why shouldn¡¯t he keep a corpse demon as a pet?

    With a pat on Pale Revenant¡¯s hips, Thunder Emissary Cao teased, ¡°Go on, little darling, attend to your master.¡±

    ¡°Mhm.¡± With her head bowed and fingers nervously intertwined, Pale Revenant moved to Yun Xiao¡¯s side.

    Indeed, Yun Xiao hade to take her away.

    Thunder Emissary Cao Shuo yed with a curl of her long, violet hair by her ear and blinked her eyes at Yun Xiao, asking, "How long do you expect me to hide?"

    "Perhaps you could do me a favor," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "That sort of talk feels rather formal." Cao Shuo pouted.

    "Go to my homnd, keep an eye on it for me," Yun Xiao said.

    "Where''s that?" she inquired.

    "The very world that birthed the Immortal Asylum, one of the mortal realms in the sky," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Oh..." Her curiosity about his origins was piqued, and everything seemed to fall into ce.

    She crossed her arms and smiled, "Alright, but you have to promise me one thing."

    "Go ahead."

    "Don''t leave me hanging there. I haven''t had my fill offort yet. You''ll need toe by every few days," Cao Shuo hummed.

    "You truly are unrestrained." Yun Xiao couldn''t help but admire her candidness; she didn''t hide her longing for his youthful vigor in the slightest.

    "Can''t help it, I''m getting older; might as well enjoy the pleasures timely," she replied.

    "Whatever you need, just let me know," Yun Xiao said.

    Cao Shuo chuckled softly, assuring him, "When your big sis handles things, you can rest easy."

    "Big sis? Weren''t you my <em>aunt</em> before?" Yun Xiao joked.

    "Visit me a few more times, and you can call me grandma if you''d like," she teased with a flirtatious blink.

    Yun Xiao was left speechless. Was she really living her life to the fullest in such a way? As a man, he could not truly understand.

    And so, Cao Shuo quietly departed the Thunder Department, heading in the direction Yun Xiao had shown her. Meanwhile, Yun Xiao himself paraded through the streets with Pale Revenant by his side.

    He needed the public to see him with a demon pet. So, Pale Revenant''s activities wouldn''t draw unwanted attention.

    The Thunder Department had suffered greatly, and Immortals were scarce on the streets.

    Seeing Yun Xiao, the hopeful future of the Thunder Department, brought a bit of sunshine to their grim hearts.

    Along the way, many Immortals of the Thunder Department greeted him. Most of them were Rank 7 or lower, the true grassroots of the department, who had no part in the perks of higher ranks but had not shied from hard work, much like Lu An.

    Without powerful family connections or extraordinarybat skills, advancing to Rank 6 was difficult!

    Of course, there were also many Immortals who were merely rtives of Heavenly Officers, without any official position themselves.

    Previously, when Yun Xiao had called down the Thunder Immortal Formation, he had done his best to spare these individuals; his main targets had been the 100 high officials of the Thunder Department and their progeny.

    "Good day, Champion!"

    "Thunder Emissary Lu!"

    As Yun Xiao walked the streets of the Thunder Department, the Immortals greeted him warmly.

    After all, the people who had spoken ill of Yun Xiao at the celebration feast had been silenced by Yun Xiao himself.

    In any world, the vast majority were those simple souls without fault or de.

    They were the very people Yun Xiao sought to win over, the future of the Celestial Court.

    "Hello, everyone!" Yun Xiao led the way, with Pale Revenant dutifully following behind, as they walked through the bustling streets and narrow alleys of the Thunder Department.

    "Thunder Emissary Lu, who is this young one?" someone dared to ask as Yun Xiao''s warmth emboldened the crowd.

    "This is my demon pet," Yun Xiao replied.

    "A demon pet? She''s a demon?"

    "Her demon aura is so faint, I thought she was human!"

    "Nonsense," another chimed in, "Thunder Emissary Lu is the top genius of the Celestial Court, how could his demon pet be anything ordinary?"

    And so, Pale Revenant''s identity within the Celestial Court was settled without need for further introductions from Yun Xiao; word of her spread on its own.

    "The Champion sure has a taste, even dressing his demon pet in a maid''s outfit."

    "She''s adorable!"

    "Nonsense, a demon pet is a demon servant, suited to be a little maid¡ªthat''s how she should dress."

    "Those twin ponytails are so spirited!"

    It proved true that in any world, at any level, the hearts of people were never free from gossip. They were already specting whether Yun Xiao and his demon pet might be involved in some peculiar escapades.

    Amidst these murmurs, Yun Xiao continued through various markets, approaching the Cao Immortal Manor.

    The estate was located within the core territory of the Thunder Department. Most lower ranked Immortalscked the clearance to enter, making the area much quieter.

    "I sense another demon''s aura," Pale Revenant whispered nervously, tugging at Yun Xiao''s sleeve.

    Being a unique demon, she was even more sensitive to the presence of other demons than Yun Xiao.

    "Oh?" A demon boldly making its presence known in the Thunder Department, and hostile towards him?

    No sooner had they spoken than their surroundings seemed to cleave away, isting them into a separate world.

    Thick ck mists began to swirl around, forming a dark veil that enveloped them both.

    Then, a sinisterugh echoed ominously from all directions.

    Yun Xiao spoke calmly, "No need to set the mood, just show yourself."

    Any demon daring to strike outside the Cao Immortal Manor within the Thunder Department was certainly no ordinary foe.

    "Hehe."

    From the depths of the mist ahead, a tall, thin man appeared.

    Yun Xiao focused his eyes and saw that the man had a sharp chin, wore a long robe that dragged on the ground, and his skin was deathly pale.

    Most horrifying of all, he had three heads.

    The additional two heads were smaller, sprouting from his shoulders, all three shaking as they coldly regarded Yun Xiao.

    "What''s your story?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "From the Celestial Demon Abyss, I am the Tri Dark Lord," the man in the ck robe sneered.

    "Never heard of you," Yun Xiao replied.

    "No matter, you''ll remember once you''re in the underworld," the man in the ck robe said.

    "Confident, aren''t you?" Yun Xiao''s lips tightened, his gaze growing colder, "You snuck into the Thunder Department to kill me, there must be a reason."

    "The reason isn¡¯tplicated. To thwart the rise of a human genius is a duty of demons," the man in the ck robe taunted.

    "Oh." Yun Xiao scoffed, "So, Lu Fan sent you to test how many times my coffin can still be used?"

    The man in the ck robe, who had been sneering until then, suddenly dropped his smile at Yun Xiao''s words, and a murderous intent filled his six eyes!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Cao Immortal Manor¡­

    "There¡¯s a demon aura!" the Moon Sword Goddess, who had been meditating, suddenly opened her eyes, her sword ready.

    Gu Suwan was not far from her side. Hearing this, the two quickly moved outside.

    At the door, they saw a distant ck mist swirling, a sinister force reaching towards the heavens.

    "The Tri Dark Lord from the Celestial Demon Abyss, a Golden Immortal in the Establishment stage!" The Moon Sword Goddess''s face was as cold as frost. "This is too arrogant. Do they think the Thunder Department is undefended?"

    "Looks like Lu Yao is in there?" Gu Suwan said.

    "It seems so." The Moon Sword Goddess was ready to rush over.

    But Gu Suwan suddenly held her back.

    "What''s the matter? Lu Yao can handle a Mid Golden Immortal just fine. But facing the Tri Dark Lord, he might be in mortal danger," the Moon Sword Goddess said sharply.

    "He has more tricks up his sleeve, why not watch a bit longer?" Gu Suwan suggested.

    The Moon Sword Goddess frowned. "What¡¯s there to see? Our mission is to protect him."

    "Are you sure?" Gu Suwan''s gaze was deep as she watched her.

    "Gu Suwan, are you keeping something from me?" the Moon Sword Goddess asked.

    "It¡¯s nothing that serious. Our Thunder Department and your Immortal Sword Court are brotherly organizations," Gu Suwan said.

    "Brotherly my foot!" the Moon Sword Goddess, usually as cold as frost, suddenly burst out with vulgarity. She spoke earnestly, "You know well he''s no match for the Tri Dark Lord, yet you stop me from intervening. This tells me the Thunder Department not onlycks support for him but sees him as a considerable threat."

    "So, does the Immortal Sword Court want to take him in now?" Gu Suwan asked with a smile.

    The Moon Sword Goddess fell silent.

    Gu Suwan then gazed back at the ck mist, saying deeply, "Don''t worry. The boy might suffer a bit, but he won''t die."

    "It¡¯s none of my concern," the Moon Sword Goddess dered, her elegant brows furrowed.

    She had already discerned that the Thunder Department was hiding something, harboring hostility towards the Immortal Sword Court, perhaps hoping to achieve some great feat on their own.

    But what could this hidden matter be?

    The Moon Sword Goddess felt it might involve the Thunder Immortal Formation!

    Of course, she couldn''t be certain.

    "Is there a need for the Emperor to push Lu Yao back to Sovereign Lu?" The Moon Sword Goddess couldn''t understand.

    "No, wait!" Her eyes suddenly widened as she looked towards the ck mist, a slight shock passing through her, "This Tri Dark Lord might well be a demon directed by Sovereign Lu!"

    Her thoughts cleared in an instant!

    "Watching the tigers fight from the mountain?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    These words perfectly suited their current scenario.

    "I just fear this young tiger is too weak, no match for the old tiger even for half a move."

    The oue would be clear from this battle!

    The Moon Sword Goddess was no longer anxious.

    She wanted to see how Yun Xiao would handle such an overpowering senior-level opponent.

    How many times could his coffin save him?

    Just as she thought this, the fight in the ck mist had already begun!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 655: Thunderbolt Deity!

    Chapter 655: Thunderbolt Deity!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The formidable Tri Dark Lord red menacingly at Yun Xiao with six eyes, his body emitting copious amounts of ck mist.

    In the blink of an eye, his form shifted, transforming into a pitch-ck, ink-like three-headed serpent. Towering above, it stared down at Yun Xiao with a deadly intent.

    The serpent had green eyes and triangr heads. Its mouth, when opened, revealed a forked tongue sharp as spikes and venomous fangs hooked backwards. Its body was covered in thick scales, clearly forged over countless years by Deste Essence, making its flesh as indestructible as a celestial treasure.

    A celestial demon''s body was heavy as a mountain with strength vast as the sea!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Without another word, the three colossal serpent heads, like three great mountains, lunged at Yun Xiao.

    "Be careful!" Pale Revenant gritted her teeth, her face ashen. Even as a deep-sea corpse demon who''d advanced into the Spirit Projection Realm, she was too frail against this celestial demon.

    Yet, Yun Xiao hadn''t expected this young girl to shield him so swiftly! Her action was clearly suicidal, yet it also revealed that in her eyes, only Yun Xiao mattered; she regarded her own life as insignificant.

    <em>RIP! </em>As she transformed into a corpse demon surrounded by swirling sea waves, a mere touch from the Tri Dark Lord shattered her corporeal form, scattering blood and remnants across the ground.

    "Yun Xiao..."Among the scattered remnants, Pale Revenant still murmured, wishing to protect her Yun Xiao.

    "You silly girl..." Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh and cry at the same time.

    Pale Revenant was new to the Celestial Court. She was ignorant of the profound tiers of the Third Dao Tribtion, yet rashly she charged forward.

    She knew neither Yun Xiao''s true strength nor the vast gap between herself and the Tri Dark Lord.

    "A corpse demon?" The serpent''s eyes lit up at the collision, chuckling, "You''ve nurtured a fine creature indeed!"

    Yun Xiao gave it a cold nce. "Indeed a fine creature, just terribly starved."

    At that moment, with his left hand, he conjured a violet Runic Umbre!

    From the umbre emerged the roars of nine divine dragons, violently unfurling, with the eyes of nine dragon heads on its ribs opening in solemn majesty, surrounded by 22 Sacred Dragon Rune Prisons!

    Under the support of Yun Xiao¡¯s current celestial power, the Runic Umbre unleashed its formidable power.

    And just then, one of the serpent¡¯s heads was striking towards Yun Xiao!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Around one of the serpent heads, a storm of thunder-charged snowkes whirled and howled towards Yun Xiao, likely some supreme demonic sorcery.

    Facing the serpent''s head and its thunderous blizzard, Yun Xiao stood unflinching as a mountain, merely lifting his hand to thrust the Runic Umbre right into the gaping maw of the Tri Dark Lord!

    "Life Sigil? A mere snack... Ahhh!!!"

    First, the Tri Dark Lord sneered with contempt, but in the very next moment, the Runic Umbre, like nine massive dragons, instantly pulverized one of his heads into a bloody spray, turning the thunderstorm into a bloody mess, sttering everywhere!

    "In just one day, you''ve grown this much stronger!" It was clear that the Tri Dark Lord had investigated Yun Xiao, thinking he had gotten a read of the young man. Yet upon engaging, his expectations were utterly crushed by the might of the Creator Immortal!

    Shocked to his core, he didn''t pause a moment, whipping his serpentine body around to flee.

    "Boring." Yun Xiao, leaning on his umbre, nonchntly blocked the thunderous blizzard, then casually flung his Flying Sword with his right hand.

    <em>HUM! </em>The azure sword burst forth with surging thunder, transforming suddenly into an azure bird with outstretched wings, striking right at the back of the Tri Dark Lord''s head.

    This was also one of the Thunder Department''s Ten Dao Heaven Arts, a Flying Sword Technique named Thunderbolt Deity!

    The Thunderbolt Deity was terrifying, derived from its ability to weave back and forth over 100 times. The Tri Dark Lord was so frightened that he exposed his back to Yun Xiao, which led to the Thunderbolt Deity¡¯s sword piercing back and forth 30 times, finishing off his remaining two heads!

    "This child is a freak; he must be killed quickly!" The mighty Tri Dark Lord, in his dying breath, let out a terrifying roar, warning someone unknown.

    Just after his roar, his massive serpentine body copsed to the ground, lifeless, his demonic spirit pierced through by the astral sword of Yun Xiao''s manifested spirit.

    There was nothing worth interrogating.

    Yun Xiao knew all too well, even on his knees, that this was the Chaos Sovereign testing him; if he did not die, the tests would continue endlessly.

    He sheathed his Runic Umbre, walked forward smoothly, and plunged the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into the serpent''s spine, beginning to absorb the demonic marrow from the bones.

    A grand celestial demon in the Establishment Golden Immortal Realm!

    Its bones were rich in essence, allowing the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to instantly condense millions ofyers of Sword Aura, which then automatically contracted into a Sword Prison!

    After finishing, Yun Xiao turned to the scattered pieces of flesh and said, "Hey, I''m not nning to refine this guy into a Sword Ring. Come and eat?"

    The pile of remains made a few whimpering sounds, uncertain if it was moved or shocked.

    Yun Xiao, caught betweenughter and tears, said, "Do I need to feed you myself?"

    With that, the remains slowly moved over and stuck to the Tri Dark Lord¡¯s serpentine body, which then began to smoke as the body gradually became part of the remains, and the remnants began to bubble and consolidate¡ªblood, flesh, and bone merging into one.

    Truth be told, the process of <em>consuming</em> the meat was not a sight for the squeamish.

    Yet, as the flesh and blood coalesced, a spirited young girl emerged before Yun Xiao. Herplexion was rosy, her skin fair, and she looked strikingly lovely. She cherished the outfit that Thunder Emissary Cao had given her; during the fray, she''d protected nothing but her clothes.

    Now, regainingposure, she nervously began to redress in her ck and white maid outfit.

    Feeling Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze, she grew even more anxious, which only slowed her dressing as her legs trembled.

    "Do I need to help you dress?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "No, no, no, no need," Pale Revenant quickly replied.

    "Then I''ll tie your hair." Yun Xiao walked behind her, retied her twin ponytails, and pulled them back slightly, chuckling, "Like two reins."

    "Mmm..." Pale Revenant finally finished dressing, but her mood seemed downcast.

    "What''s the matter?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Yun Xiao..." Pale Revenant¡¯s voice quivered, tears ready to fall, "I''m sorry I wasn¡¯t any help."

    "Why the rush? It¡¯s just the beginning." Yun Xiao pinched her cheek and used the Prison Warden Sigil to draw new undead energy into her, saying, "Besides, having devoured that little snake, haven¡¯t you soared in strength? Don¡¯t worry, I naturally attract trouble, there will be plenty more snacksing our way."

    "Mmm." Pale Revenant shifted her arms, stomped the ground, and the earth trembled.

    She felt significantly stronger. To her, sometimes the level of power wasn''t the most important thing¡ªher strength was boundless and she was nearly indestructible.

    "Let''s go." Yun Xiao turned and headed toward the Cao Immortal Manor, with her quickly following behind.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Inside the Cao Immortal Manor, the Moon Sword Goddess and Gu Suwan stared in disbelief at the young man in wless white.

    With an umbre in hand, he looked like he was on a leisurely stroll; with a flick of his Flying Sword, the Tri Dark Lord exploded!

    After the death, whether it was the Tri Dark Lord''s spirit, demonic bones, or the corpse itself, everything was consumed without a trace left behind!

    Was Yun Xiao a wandering Immortal or a gue of locusts?

    "Do you think you could defeat the Tri Dark Lord?" the Moon Sword Goddess asked Gu Suwan.

    "No." Gu Suwan bit her lip and shook her head.

    "Then this young man truly defies the heavens. Such a being, can you really not pledge your support?" The Moon Sword Goddess had been watching Yun Xiao''s rise; her heart was so overwhelmed it felt suffocated.

    It was terrifying! She couldn''t even begin to describe how terrifying it was.

    Yesterday, he defeated An Yao, a Mid-stage Golden Immortal, at the Divine Gateway. Today, he crushed the Tri Dark Lord, who wasparable to Gu Suwan... Could tomorrow be the day he surpasses even herself?

    She even wanted to ask¡ªif the Chaos Sovereign or White Emperor were truly his equals.

    Such thoughts she kept to herself, unspoken.

    And Gu Suwan was left utterly dumbfounded. Earlier today, the Nine Thunders Sovereign had sought her out alone, opening new avenues of thought, but now, she was thoroughly bewildered.

    "Master, foster mother."

    At that moment, Yun Xiao approached them.

    The Moon Sword Goddess was the first to greet him, her face wearing a rare smile. "I also noticed this celestial demon, but I had a feeling you could handle it. So, I didn''t intervene. You don¡¯t mind, do you?"

    "How could I?" Yun Xiao shook his head. "Master understands me, trusts me, and I am honored by it."

    The Moon Sword Goddess¡¯s usually frosty demeanor softened as she asked gently, "This young girl, is she a corpse demon?"

    "My demonic pet," Yun Xiao responded.

    "To earn your approval, she must have a boundless future," the Moon Sword Goddess remarked with approval.

    Her change was bing more pronounced.

    "Foster mother? Is something bothering you?" Yun Xiao nced at Gu Suwan, noting her anxious demeanor.

    "No, not at all." Gu Suwan smiled sweetly. "All is well. I hadn¡¯t expected the demons and devils from Naraka to be so excessive. Probably because the Ascension Pool was destroyed, outsiders have infiltrated. We need to report this, and get more forces deployed to protect you."

    "Indeed! The more, the merrier," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "What¡¯s next?" the Moon Sword Goddess asked.

    "I n to continue my cultivation here in the Thunder Department; it¡¯s the safest ce," Yun Xiao replied, then looking back at the frosty beauty, he added, "By the way, Master, weren¡¯t you going to teach me the Immortal Sword Court¡¯s secret Dao Heaven grade techniques? How about now?"

    The Moon Sword Goddess was taken aback. She had never mentioned teaching him techniques at the Dao Heaven grade. But she realized, this was her real chance to grow close to Yun Xiao¡­

 Chapter 656: A Record of Moon Fairys Flowery Adventures

    Chapter 656: A Record of Moon Fairy''s Flowery Adventures

    <em>HUM! </em>A great celestial pnquin shuddered with each movement, signaling its descent into the demon territory of Naraka.

    Around Moon Fairy, the young fox demons struggled to keep their footing, tumbling and careening about, their cries piercing the air.

    Their futures were cloaked in uncertainty, their destinies unknown, as were the kinds of masters they might encounter, stirring a natural anxiety within them.

    "Nevertheless, we have entered smoothly," one remarked.

    As soon as they entered the demon territory even within the confines of the celestial pnquin, Moon Fairy detected a peculiar odor. It was hard to say whether it was foul or fragrant, but it was undeniably diforting.

    "Perfumed rot!" the Nian roared in disdain.

    "Rot?" Moon Fairy pondered this as a group of powerful demons from the Lunar Demon Cavern suddenly appeared before the young fox demons.

    Leading them was the Lunar Mistress. Unlike her daughter Wuqing, she possessed a charm as enticing as a ripe peach, her eyes like the heart of the fruit¡ªseemingly innocent yet infinitely seductive.

    "Remember what I instructed earlier? We''ll soon be at the Celestial Demon Conference." The Lunar Mistress'' voice was cold as frost, instilling fear in the delicate fox demons."We remember!"

    They answered in unison.

    Moon Fairy, concealed among the throng of demons, did not stand out.

    He was plotting his escape from the celestial pnquin to seize an opportunity in the demon territory of Naraka. But the astute eyes of the Lunar Mistress quickly spotted him among the crowd.

    "Who is this tender fox? I don''t recall seeing them before," she asked.

    "I picked them up on the road, mom," Wuqing replied.

    The Lunar Mistress nced at Moon Fairy, noting his weaker cultivation among the group and apparently saw no threat, casually appraising him. "This little girl has the looks of a beauty," she noted.

    "Mom, he''s a male," Wuqing corrected awkwardly.

    "Oh?" Surprised, the Lunar Mistress stepped forward, reaching out to grasp him regardless of his will, her expression bizarre as she confirmed, "Indeed, he harbors a potent force."

    "I only realized he was a man after he spoke," Wuqing replied.

    "Hmm," the Lunar Mistress mused, her mood apparently light as she pinched Moon Fairy''s cheek. "These looks, if he were female, he''d barely pass as exceptional. But as a male, he''s a rarity of the finest sort."

    "Is that an exaggeration?" Wuqing asked, surprised.

    "Rare things hold value. The usual pets have long since bored her," the Lunar Mistress exined before turning to two fox demons behind her. "Lil Qing, Lil Lan, dress up this tender fox."

    "Are you nning to present him to the Great Mother?" Wuqing''s eyes sparkled.

    "Naturally," the Lunar Mistress smirked, giving Moon Fairy another look before she and her daughter turned and left.

    The two fox demons, mature in age and allure, each dressed in flowing robes of green and blue, more fantastical than any Celestial Court fairy, remained behind.

    "Young fox, what is your name?" The green-robed fox approached, her eyes squinting with delight at Moon Fairy.

    "Sister, I am called Moon Fairy."

    "The Fairy of the Moon, quite poetic." The blue-robed foxughed gently, then took Moon Fairy''s hand, her eyes swirling with seductive waves. "Come, let''s give you a wash."

    "A wash?"

    Before Moon Fairy could grasp the situation, he was whisked away under the nervous gazes of the other young fox demons.

    "The Great Mother..."

    These words sent a chill through the gathered fox demons.

    "He''s in a dire situation."

    "I heard the Great Mother might devour a man in the height of passion."

    Their words almost suffocated them, their legs trembling.

    "No, it''s not certain. He has a feminine charm, unique in this regard; perhaps he''ll receive the Great Mother''s favor..."

    "The Great Mother is fickle, like bedding a tiger; it''s hard to say."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Lil Qing and Lil Lan, each holding one of Moon Fairy''s hands, led him into a room filled with an intoxicating fragrance. The chamber was a dreamlike vista of pink florals.

    At the center, a bath bubbled, its waters shimmering with colorful light, covered in petals. The colorful liquid seemed almost milky, steaming with vibrant mists that appeared slightly scalding.

    Moon Fairy''s nose twitched slightly; the scent told him this pool contained liquid Deste Essence, not only cleansing but likely enhancing one''s vitality.

    "Moon Fairy dear, for someone of your origin to bathe in this Colorful Mist Pool, know that it is a great fortune," the green-robed fox cooed.

    Moon Fairy was plotting an escape from these two powerful celestial demons, but faced with the enchanting Colorful Mist Pool, he held himself back.

    There was no way around it¡ªa body double was just that,cking the myriad resources of the original.

    Now, at his weakest, Moon Fairy had no choice but to endure and bear the burden. "Enough, I¡¯ll bear this burden just this once! Let¡¯s take a chance."

    Moreover, the green and blue fox demons didn''t give him a chance to refuse, swiftly stripping him of his silver robe.

    "This is a fine piece indeed." The green fox''s pretty face blushed, her eyes shimmering with excitement.

    No wonder the Lunar Mistress had dered him a rarity upon her touch.

    "Lil Qing, might we... taste him first?" the blue fox whispered with longing.

    The green fox shook her head. "We can''t. If we touch him, the scent won''t wash off quickly, and how could the Great Mother swallow that?"

    Their task was to <em>package</em> him!

    "Alright then," the blue fox said, biting her lip, a trace of disappointment in her tone.

    "Don''t get carried away. Even the Lunar Mistress didn¡¯t taste him first, so how could we?" the green fox reasoned.

    "The Lunar Mistress is devoted to another man, and she has long abstained," the blue fox remarked, though her mind seemed to settle, and she led Moon Fairy into the Colorful Mist Pool.

    Instantly, Moon Fairy felt as if he had entered a hot spring!

    Only once inside did he realize how deep the Colorful Mist Pool was. This special liquid destion must have been vast in volume. He tried absorbing just a little, and even that small amount initiated a tremendous transformation in his Divine Destion Physique!

    His whole body tingled with the sensation.

    "This tender fox adapts remarkably well to the destion; he''s a true prodigy," the green fox eximed in surprise.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "The Great Mother will surely be even more pleased," the blue fox sighed softly.

    They expressed their sentiments briefly before also removing their outer skirts, leaving only their undergarments, and entered the pool, now holding some <em>tools</em>.

    "What are those for?" Moon Fairy asked, rmed at the sight of the strange tools.

    In his modestly developed state, he had no means to resist these two powerful celestial demons; even a single hair from them could strangle Yun Xiao¡¯s body double.

    "Darling, don''t worry, these are just cleaning tools," the green fox chuckled at his na?viety.

    "Really," the blue fox added, smiling warmly as she approached Moon Fairy, gently squeezing his arm. "You needn¡¯t worry; we won¡¯t hurt you. The Great Mother likes cleanliness, and we''ll remove any other scents from you, packaging you as the perfect gift to present to her."

    With that, they began their meticulous cleaning, treating even a single hair with the utmost care.

    Caught between the two stunning vixens, Moon Fairy¡¯s emotions wereplex, to say the least.

    He could only endure this humiliation, calming himself internally before asking softly, "Sisters, may I know what the true form of the Great Mother is?"

    "Corpse¡­"

    The blue fox had barely uttered a word before the green fox shot her a stern nce, warning, "Do not speak carelessly!"

    After chiding herpanion, the green fox turned to Moon Fairy with a smile. "You needn''t worry about such matters. Just remember to heed the Great Mother''s words. If you do, you will bask in endless glory and riches."

    "The Great Mother is the ruler of Narka''s demon territory, her stature rivaling that of the White Emperor. Should you be her favorite, countless demons would envy you," the blue fox mused with a sigh.

    "Oh," Moon Fairy responded, digesting the weight of her words.

    He then inquired about the uing Celestial Demon Conference. The two beautiful fox demons were patient and attentive, answering all his questions as long as they weren''t too peculiar.

    "Um, sisters, may I absorb a bit of the pool water?" Moon Fairy asked ''innocently.''

    "This is the Lunar Mistress'' bath..." the blue fox began to refuse.

    Yet the green foxughed softly and interjected, "What harm could it do? How much can a little fledgling like him absorb?"

    With that reassurance, Moon Fairy wasted no time.

    He closed his eyes, <em>savoring</em> the bath while absorbing the liquid destion through his pores.

    "Ah!"

    He was astonished to discover that as the liquid destion was absorbed, the level of the bath did not lower but instead diminished from the bottom up. This meant the destion floated atop the water¡ªa curious and fortunate trait that offered him greater opportunity.

    Of course, with both fox sisters being formidable beings, Moon Fairy didn''t dare to overindulge. He didn''t want to get caught.

    So, he maintained a steady rhythm, slowly absorbing the liquid. The Colorful Mist Pool was deep, around thirty meters, and as time passed, he had drained nearly half of it. The temperature of the pool dropped slightly, but the two foxes had yet to notice.

    Knowing the immense value of what he''d stolen, Moon Fairy dared not continue, lest he had a death wish.

    And just then, the two beauties announced the end of the cleansing process.

    "Alright,e on out."

    The green and blue foxes emerged from the water, colorful liquid cascading down their bodies, tracing vibrant, undting paths.

    They watched expectantly as Moon Fairy, now scrubbed to a snowy white, emerged from the water.

    The blue fox chuckled. "This child is so sincere, even saluting us."

    The green fox joined in theughter.

    But Moon Fairy was embarrassed. Having absorbed too much of the liquid destion, his body felt as though moltenva coursed through his veins, his inner fire raging too fiercely.

    "Come, let''s do your make-up quickly," the green fox beckoned.

    "Make-up?" Moon Fairy''s eyes widened. What the hell was this about?

    The green fox gave him a yful scold with her eyes, then proceeded with the <em>packaging.</em>

    Seeing the powdered, white petal dresses they brought for him, Moon Fairy nearly choked in disbelief, eximing, "Why are you dressing me in women''s clothes?!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 657: You Wont Die

    Chapter 657: You Won''t Die

    The blue foxughed and said, "Silly boy, do you know what a <em>gap</em> is? I intend to dress you up so stunningly beautiful and present you before the Great Mother. She, who usually finds little to excite her, will be utterly dazzled when she realizes you are a man. The shock alone will make her heart bloom with joy."

    Moon Fairy remained silent for a moment, his expression grave. "A man may be killed, but not humiliated. I refuse."

    "Refuse, my foot!" The green foxughed through her tears, and with a wave of her hand, eight green fox tails wrapped around Moon Fairy, pinning him down.

    Then, the two set to work¡ªone with makeup, the other with clothes.

    Soon after, a vision of pure, unmatched beauty, a veritable spectacle of the ages, was crafted by their hands.

    Staring at his reflection in the mirror, Moon Fairy was struck by a bewildering thought¡­ <em>Is this really me? </em>

    Even his true self might have been tempted by such beauty. He was breathtaking! This pure desire surpassed even the coldest of hearts!

    "I want to kill someone!" Moon Fairy gritted his teeth.

    "Tsk, tsk," the Nian within him roared withughter. "I really want to say that line to you.""Which line?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "But first, let me have a goodugh at your suffering..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Thunder Department, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but sneeze. He closed his eyes and clenched his teeth, "Damn, it''s a good thing it''s just a body double, a mere ything for their amusement. At least my own dignity remains intact."

    He was now even more convinced that not choosing the War Princess as his body double had been the right decision. Otherwise, controlling a female body would have truly warped his nature.

    The War Princess had survived because of her gender; the original Moon Fairy from the Northern Wastnd had not been so lucky.

    "Lu Yao, do you want me to show you again?" asked a gentle voice suddenly.

    Yun Xiao looked up and saw the Moon Sword Goddess standing before him, her silver robe and hair gleaming, slowly sheathing her long sword. Her eyes, usually fierce, now held a trace of vulnerability as she looked at him.

    The once unassable ice maiden, now seemed so tender in Yun Xiao''s presence. Her fear of him was a sharp insight borne of her keen judgment.

    At that moment, their roles seemed reversed; the disciple sat while the master stood.

    "No need," Yun Xiao dered, rising to his feet.

    "No need?" The Moon Sword Goddess bit her lip slightly, her voice tinged with doubt. "Are you sure? I''ve only shown you the three Dao Heaven grade sword techniques once..."

    Gu Suwan, seated in the distance clutching her legs, lifted her head at these words, a hint of panic flickering in her beautiful eyes. She remembered watching Yun Xiao observing the Thunder Department''s Ten Great Dao Heaven Art at the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau.

    "Could it be that you¡¯ve already mastered them?" The Moon Sword Goddess eyes trembled slightly as her posture became increasingly deferential before Yun Xiao.

    "Is it difficult?" Yun Xiao nced at her impassively, then extended his index finger, around which a storm of sword energy swirled, forming a miniature blizzard¡ªthe very technique the Moon Sword Goddess had just demonstrated.

    The Moon Sword Goddess gasped, her eyes widening as she instinctively stepped back. It had taken her 30 years to learn this Dao Heaven grade sword technique. Yet, Yun Xiao, with a single nce and one exnation of the technique, had mastered it. What kind of heaven defying monster was he?

    Her imagination was overwhelmed.

    "Master." Yun Xiao arched an eyebrow at the Moon Sword Goddess. "This is a secret sword art from the Immortal Sword Court. You shouldn¡¯t have shared it with me, an official of the Thunder Department. You''ve vited the taboos of the Immortal Sword Court. Have you considered how you will face the wrath of the Northstar Sword Devil?"

    The Moon Sword Goddess'' voice was hoarse as she looked down. "Having made my choice, I have epted that you are invincible. Regardless of what Sovereign Lu or the White Emperor think of you, I stand with you. What does it matter if I defy the Immortal Sword Court?"

    "Wow, so sensible?" Yun Xiao was somewhat surprised.

    Many had witnessed his terrifying talents. Yet, due to their pride, they failed to understand just how monstrous he was.

    It seemed that the Moon Sword Goddess was the first among the top officials of the Celestial Court to be truly humbled by his talents.

    "You moved from Sky Soaring City to the Divine Gateway, ughtering your way through in just a few days, even defeating the Tri Dark Lord. Your transcendence over all beings is evident," the Moon Sword Goddess said, her gaze intense.

    "Does that seem reasonable to you?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    At his words, the Moon Sword Goddess trembled, her knees weakening, and she began to kneel before him.

    "May I ask, senior, are you perhaps a reincarnated Immortal sage?"

    Yun Xiao extended a hand to support her, shaking his head. "I¡¯m just teasing you; I''m no reincarnated Immortal sage."

    "Regardless, I am wholly yours tomand," the Moon Sword Goddess said, her gaze nervously fixed on him.

    How the tables had turned. Once, she was the unassable Moon Sword Goddess, scrutinizing Yun Xiao from on high, pulling him in and pushing him away at a whim... Now, she knelt before him, casting aside all pride away and seeking his approval.

    The sensation of conquest was exhrating.

    "In all my time in the Celestial Court, truly few have acknowledged me wholeheartedly, without fear of the pressures thate with it. You may not be of the finest character, but you''re clever, and I am indeed short on allies," Yun Xiao dered as he took her delicate hand in his, gazing deeply into her eyes. "Alright, I''ll give you a chance."

    "Thank you..." the Moon Sword Goddess'' eyes reddened slightly, relief washing over her.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Her mind was a bit of a muddle.

    She had a vague understanding of what Yun Xiao intended to do, and what he was up against¡ªthe entire Celestial Court system!

    She would have scoffed at anyone daring to challenge that system. But now, truly frightened, her mind feverish, she had defected to his side, betraying the Celestial Court.

    A prodigy, no matter how defiant, didn''t scare her. What frightened her was this man''s defiance was suffocating, indestructible, and his meteoric rise from obscurity to nearly matching her in just a few days!

    She knew better than anyone that once this youth surpassed her, her own worth would vanish. Like Gu Suwan, whose value had already diminished.

    At that moment, a young man held her jade-like hand firmly, looking at her, while she, the exalted Moon Sword Goddess of the Immortal Sword Court, bowed her head like a little girl, utterly nervous.

    Such a scene, unbelievable to anyone.

    But it was the truth!

    "I must be mad..."

    When Yun Xiao finally released her hand, she felt an unexpected pang of loss. The sensation of being overwhelmed by her own disciple twisted her emotions in a bizarre mix of difort and a strangely unspeakable pleasure.

    What a turn of events!

    Yun Xiao turned his gaze toward Gu Suwan.

    Without a word, he simply watched the ever youthful woman who had been staring at him and the Moon Sword Goddess for quite some time.

    None of their conversation had been concealed from Gu Suwan.

    "I, I..." Gu Suwan suddenly became nervous, the youth she once saw as her adopted son now looked at her in a way that made her tremble inside.

    "Don''t worry, you won''t die. There are too many in the Celestial Court who deserve death, and you''ve spent 800,000 True Immortal Jades to save your own life; one less won''t matter," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    In truth, it was not the Moon Sword Goddess who was closest to Yun Xiao. It was her! So, the terror of Yun Xiao''s rise was most profoundly felt by Gu Suwan.

    Before she knew it, the young man was standing before her, face-to-face, less than two inches away.

    She was supposed to be the powerhouse, and he the newbie. Yet, Yun Xiao''s gaze was steady, while her beautiful eyes trembled continuously.

    "I-I cannot betray the Celestial Court..." Gu Suwan said, her voice shaking.

    His look continued to suffocate her.

    "I am the divinely appointed Immortal Champion; why would following my lead be a betrayal of the Celestial Court?" Yun Xiao suddenly reached out, grasping her throat, and asked coldly, "Or do you know in your heart that the Celestial Court has already betrayed me?"

    Gu Suwan''s eyes widened, as if choking, her eyes brimming with tears.

    "Speak!" Yun Xiaomanded coldly.

    "Hehe..." Gu Suwan copsed into his arms, her voice quivering, "The Nine Thunders Sovereign, he just took the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron, to your homnd, your mortal realm..."

    After these words, Gu Suwan was drenched in sweat, herplexion deathly pale. She leaned on Yun Xiao''s chest, tears streaming down her face as she looked up at him.

 Chapter 658: Something From the Immortal Sword Court!

    Chapter 658: Something From the Immortal Sword Court!

    "The Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron is the Thunder Department''s sole Divine Heaven grade celestial treasure. It''s capable ofmanding the Thunder Immortal Formation," the Moon Sword Goddess exined after hearing Gu Suwan''s confession.

    She had quickly adapted to her role.

    And Gu Suwan was still reeling from the shock of betraying the Celestial Court.

    For a Rank 3 Lightning Duchess like her to betray the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm for a youth not even 30 years old¡ªit was sheer madness. Yet, she had yielded.

    Yun Xiao hadn¡¯t forced her hand; the words had just poured out of her uncontrobly. After speaking, she braced for his furious reaction, trembling. But when she timidly looked up, Yun Xiao¡¯s face was but a mask of frost.

    "They realized I''m not Lu Yao that quickly?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes..."

    "Because of Gu Sutao, right?" he pressed on.

    After Liu Mumu had tried to reveal the conspiracy of the Celestial Court in Sky Soaring City, Yun Xiao had finally learned about Gu Sutao''s identity. But, alone as he was, he couldn¡¯t track her down.Yun Xiao had raced against time to plug every potential leak.

    "Mhm." Gu Suwan nodded, her eyes still locked on Yun Xiao with nervous anticipation.

    "You''re not Lu Yao?" the Moon Sword Goddess inhaled sharply, "Then you are..."

    "I am Yun Xiao¡­ The same <em>Xiao </em>that represents <em>free </em>and <em>leisurely</em>. I belong to the mortal realm that birthed the Immortal Asylum."

    Yun Xiao saw no point in hiding it any longer¡ªit was futile.

    Decisively, he had used the Thunder Immortal Formation to eliminate all Thunder Department officials of Rank 6 and above, hoping to seal this breach. Yet, it seemed news had still spread.

    It was all for naught, but there was nothing to be done.

    "Yun Xiao..." the Moon Sword Goddess muttered the name, then asked instinctively, "So, how old are you, truly?"

    Her question was borne of suspicion, pondering if Yun Xiao was concealing his power, his true age perhapsparable to the likes of Emperor Bai Di or the Crown Prince.

    Yun Xiao casually replied, "16 years old."

    The Moon Sword Goddess¡¯s eyes quivered slightly in shock. So young?

    "Master."

    Even now, Yun Xiao addressed her thus, causing the Moon Sword Goddess to blush. She lowered her head and said, "Just call me by my name. I''m Yue Yin, the same <em>Yin</em> that represents <em>fate</em>."

    "Mhmm, I guess we could be considered rted in a way," Yun Xiao said.

    The Moon Sword Goddess was taken aback once again. Wasn''t he a Yun? How was he rted to her?

    While she puzzled over this internally, the expression on Yun Xiao¡¯s face was deadly serious.

    He leaned close, his voice a chilling whisper in her ear.

    "No... those are the legacy of the Immortal Sword Court''s ancestors..." The Moon Sword Goddess stepped back, her face paling, her heart trembling violently.

    "Saving a life is worth more than creating a seven-story pagoda. This is your chance for redemption. Would you really pass it by?" Yun Xiao''s gaze was icy as he watched her.

    "I-I..." The Moon Sword Goddess trembled, sweat beginning to bead at her temples as she faced immense internal strife.

    "There''s no time left." Yun Xiao tugged at her robe, his eyes zing with a cold ferocity. "This is yourmitment to me, your only usefulness. I''m leaving now. If you''re not there when I expect you, just imagine your fate."

    Turning to Gu Suwan, he then asked, "Do you have a swift, small sword vessel?"

    "Yes, the Azure Rain Sword Vessel." Gu Suwan bit her lip. "You intend to intercept the Nine Thunders Sovereign yourself?"

    "Can it catch up to the Nine Thunders Divine Ark?" Yun Xiao didn''t answer her question but continued with his own.

    "It can! The Nine Thunders Divine Ark is toorge," Gu Suwan replied.

    "Let''s go!" Yun Xiao gave no room for hesitation.

    Once they chose this path, there was no turning back.

    Gu Suwan had already sealed her fate by reporting the movements of the Nine Thunders Sovereign, and the Moon Sword Goddess''s task was more than merely kneeling.

    <em>BOOM! </em>An azure sword vessel soared up into the sky from the ruins of the Thunder Department, piloted by Gu Suwan, who, once joyous in love aboard this very boat with her man¡ªnow struck by lightning¡ªsteered through her tears, her world turned upside down.

    In that moment, in the Cao Immortal Manor, the Moon Sword Goddess bowed her head, her fists clenched, wrestling with her decision.

    Finally, she bit her lip hard.

    "Sixteen years old, a monster of the heavenly path, I must act before everyone realizes his true terror," she resolved.

    With that, shemanded her Sovereign Sword, speeding even faster than the sword vessel, towards the Immortal Sword Court.

    Only the ghostly Pale Revenant remained, gazing at the heavens, murmuring, "Yun Xiao, the supreme ruler above all, sooner orter, everyone will kneel..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the void of space, a dim, amber star cast a hazy glow, suspended in the <em>sky.</em>

    A violet sword vessel raced towards this celestial body.

    Aboard, a captivating face with deep vessel eyes, a high nose bridge, and luscious red lips revealed an enchanting beauty.

    "Is this the mortal realm that birthed the Immortal Asylum, the cradle of that fellow?" Cao Shuo''s lips curled into a smile, her eyes sultry with sweetness.

    She hummed lightly, ready to steer the sword vessel into that mortal realm.

    Suddenly, behind her, a massive and violent shadow of thunder appeared!

    Cao Shuo''splexion drastically changed!

    Whirling around, she saw a thunderous divine ark, vast as a starry leviathan, breaking through the stardust, looming like a steel giant of the deep seas over her tiny craft!

    Atop the divine ark stood a towering young man with violet hair, his locks electrified, his body aglow with lightning. The thunderbolts radiated outward, weaving a that darkened the skies of the void.

    Such majesty belonged to none other than one of the Celestial Court''s Eight Great Sovereigns, the overlord of the Thunder Department, the Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign!

    He was the Supreme Lord of Arbiters, the Sovereign of Myriad Thunderous Decrees!

    "Nine Thunders Sovereign!" Cao Shuo could hardly believe she would encounter him here!

    Yun Xiao hadn''t mentioned this.

    "Craftyd, you''ve doomed me!" A single nce told Cao Shuo all was lost.

    The cmity of the Thunder Department, the death of all the Heavenly Officers Rank 6 and above¡ªYet, she alone survived. What did that mean?

    There was now undeniable evidence that Yun Xiao had tampered with the Thunder Immortal Formation!

    "Lil Cao..." The Nine Thunders Sovereign on the divine ark looked down upon her as one might a mere ant, his eyes alive with electric serpents, focusing on Cao Shuo.

    "You''ve embarked on such a wicked path, all for your misguided bleeding heart. Not only did you cause your own brother¡¯s death, but you also implicated thousands of your kin in the Thunder Department. Can you justify this to the father who tirelessly nurtured you, to the ancestors of your Cao Family?"

    The voice of the Nine Thunders Sovereign thundered forth, and Cao Shuo''s sword vessel nearly shattered under the force.

    Cao Shuo, having lived many years without purpose, faced true cmity with an initial panic that quickly settled into a deep calm...

    She took a deep breath, stepping forth from her vessel with a resolute grace, and confronted the towering Nine Thunders Sovereign. "Everyone has their own path. Born in the Cao Family of the Thunder Department, I led to its downfall. My life has been aimless, a mere existence, indeed a disservice to my family and ancestors. Yet, I can im that I have stayed true to my conscience and themon folk."

    "Sigh." The Nine Thunders Sovereign shook his head. "I have no interest in this futile debate of righteousness and humanity. At this point, our paths diverge irreconcbly. ept your fate."

    "Nine Thunders Sovereign!" Cao Shuo lifted her chin defiantly, "Our conflict is not a matter of different paths!"

    "And what is it?" Thunder swirled in the Sovereign''s eyes.

    "I am the true path, and you are not; you are devils! This isn¡¯t about being different, it¡¯s about running counter to the path, ipatible to the core!"

    With that, Cao Shuo¡¯s gaze burned fiercely, not a trace of fear of death as she faced the mighty divine ark, proiming loudly, "If so, then execute me. Let my spirit and body be destroyedpletely and cleanly!"

    "You think too much," the Nine Thunders Sovereign scoffed.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Cao Shuo frowned. "A great Sovereign of the Celestial Court resorting to threats and using hostages against a child? You are both ridiculous and disgraceful."

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a light leap, the Nine Thunders Sovereign sent a of lightning pressing down from above. "You as a hostage is merely icing on the cake."

    "You are mistaken, I am but an old woman to him, dispensable. If he decides to strike you down, his sword would not hesitate to pass through me," Cao Shuo said with a smirk.

    "Let''s see if he does then." As the Nine Thunders Sovereign spoke, he casually waved his hand, and in his grasp appeared a nine-colored thunder cauldron!

    The cauldron flung from his hand quickly expanded and hurtled towards Cao Shuo.

    "The Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron, you really didn¡¯t need to bring this out..." As Cao Shuo spoke, she suddenly realized what the Nine Thunders Sovereign intended, and her face turned ice cold.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 659: Sever Your Karma!

    Chapter 659: Sever Your Karma!

    ¡°In the middle of the cauldron is you, and beneath it lies his homnd. Together, these two things make up his whole world. Tell me, with this as leverage, will he be able to resist serving as the hound of the Celestial Court?" The Nine Thunders Sovereign sneered, hisughter cold.

    Immediately, the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron descended on Cao Shuo. Nine colorful chains of lightning stretched forth, ensnaring her by the neck, limbs, and torso, binding her in a storm of electricity.

    Cao Shuo could do nothing but muster all her celestial power in resistance. Her physique, fortified by the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace, had grown significantly tougher, especially against the sting of electricity.

    However, Cao Shuo was clever. She knew the Nine Thunders Sovereign would not unleash the full fury of the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron on her. So, she feigned frailty, her cries of pain echoing as if her end was nigh.

    ¡°The seeds you¡¯ve sown have now borne bitter fruit. Savor them slowly,¡± the Nine Thunders Sovereign said emotionlessly, ncing at her <em>pitiful</em> state.

    He then turned, the cauldron in tow, and strolled back to the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, and continued towards Yun Xiao''s homnd.

    ¡°You just mentioned hound? You still n to use him against the Chaos Sovereign?¡± Cao Shuo cried out weakly.

    ¡°And why not?¡± the Nine Thunders Sovereign replied, his gaze shifting from her to the stars ahead, a cold smirk on his lips. ¡°All we need to do is threaten him a little, and he''ll do whatever we say. We merely need to tighten our grip on the precious mortals he cares so dearly about.¡±

    Without flying talismans, Yun Xiao could hardly know of the changes here!Realizing this, Cao Shuo deeply regretted her leisurely pace and theck of concealment on her journey. Otherwise, she might have sent a warning to Yun Xiao!

    Now captured, with the myriad worlds soon falling into devilish hands, and Yun Xiao still in the dark... what was going to happen?

    Cao Shuo was not afraid of death, but panic seized her heart. ¡°This outer parts of the starry expanse is a deste no-man¡¯snd. Here, the Nine Thunders Sovereign can do as he pleases, unnoticed!¡±

    Cao Shuo was nearly in tears as she watched the Nine Thunders Sovereign approaching Yun Xiao''s homnd with the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron.

    Even with the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace enhancing her, the nine thunderbolts paralyzed her, agony tearing through her flesh as if she were being yed alive.

    ¡°To fight the heavens is to be but a moth to me,¡± the Nine Thunders Sovereign said, casting another nce at Cao Shuo. ¡°For an Immortal to sympathize with mere insects, aiding them against the heavens, is absurd. You ought to reincarnate as a mere incense stick, to fully sympathize with them just once in your life.¡±

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign truly despised people like Cao Shuo, who spoke of morality andpassion yet failed to see the bigger picture.

    "The Great Dao Celestial Realm is under siege, its very existence threatened by the rise of Naraka. In response, the White Emperor passed on the method of receiving incense offerings to bolster our forces, to protect ournds. Yet here you stand, foolishly clinging to your moral high ground, blind to the realities we face.

    "Such judgments are easily passed. But if the Celestial Court does not change, and the Great Dao Celestial Realm falls, transforming the entire mortal realm into a hunting ground for the demons, the death toll will be even greater. And you foolish lot will be branded the greatest viins of all ages. In troubled times, the sanctimonious are the first to fall¡ªand it''s your kind who''ll be in first!" the Nine Thunders Sovereign dered coldly.

    Cao Shuo was taken aback upon hearing this for the first time. Was this the harsh truth? Had countless Heavenly Officers set aside their qualms to embrace the greater good? Was she, in her resistance, potentially ushering in an even grimmer aftermath, thereby deserving of greater condemnation?

    It was like a sword dilemma: kill one to the left or two to the right¡ªhow does one choose? A choice had to be made. So, had the Celestial Court chosen the left?

    As Cao Shuo grappled with this question, suddenly, a streak of azure light shed across the sky above the Nine Thunders Divine Ark!

    <em>HUM! </em>The azure light descended from the heavens, intercepting right in front of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark!

    <em>KLANG! </em>A youth in white emerged crisply from the light, standing defiantly on the deck of the ark, facing both the Nine Thunders Sovereign and the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron.

    "Sovereign, I havee to answer your question!" Yun Xiao''s voice, sharp as a sword, cut through the storm.

    "Lu Yao... Yun Xiao?" The Nine Thunders Sovereign furrowed his brow deeply.

    He had not intended for Yun Xiao to know of today''s deeds just yet. How had he arrived so soon?

    His icy gaze swept over to the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, where Gu Suwan, pale-faced, was hiding.

    "Are all you women made of tofu?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign roared, anger searing through his heart.

    Gu Suwan was the only high official of the Thunder Department to survive the cmity. The Nine Thunders Sovereign had ced immense trust in her. And she had betrayed the Celestial Court as well? What was the purpose of such a drastic act?

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign could not fathom it any longer. All he knew was that if not for Gu Suwan''s initiative, Yun Xiao would not have returned so swiftly.

    It wasn¡¯t that he feared Yun Xiao, but revealing his hand now meant drawing the conflict onto himself, preventing Yun Xiao from depleting the Chaos Sovereign.

    Amidst his severe frustration, Cao Shuo, seeing Yun Xiao, wept like a lovelorn maiden, evidently deeply moved.

    At this juncture, the Nine Thunders Sovereign grew weary of the fray.

    He halted the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, clenching the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron in one hand while casting a cold gaze upon Yun Xiao. "Fine, you tell me¡ªwhen all beings are under threat, why shouldn''t we eliminate you naive little heroes?"

    Yun Xiao stood firm, his voice booming like thunder, "I''ll make two points. First, the White Emperor only shared the method of receiving incense offerings recently. This shows that he and the Crown Prince had already been prolonging their lives through this crooked and devilish art for a long time. Sharing now, under pressure, does not cleanse their sins. Evil remains evil, and theck of virtue remains so!"

    "And what about you?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign pressed, his eyes burning. "With the threat of Naraka looming and Lu Fan conspiring with the demons and devils, the Celestial Court and the mortal realms face two choices; sacrifice the few for the many or await death. What¡¯s your choice?"

    "This leads me to my second point!" Yun Xiao lifted his head, staring down his opponent. "The reason you''re forced to make such choices is because you''re too weak, unworthy of your positions. If so, why cling to the high seats of this Celestial Court? If it were me, I wouldn¡¯t need to choose¡ªwhoever causes chaos would perish!"

    His bold deration left the Nine Thunders Sovereign speechless.

    <em>CLAP! CLAP! CLAP! </em>Cao Shuo pped vigorously, her eyes brimming with admiration, "That was epic."

    "Sovereign," Yun Xiao didn¡¯t pause, but pressed on, "Now I ask you a question. If I told you I could lead the Celestial Court to eliminate the Chaos Sovereign and suppress Naraka, would you, along with the White Emperor and Crown Prince, willingly bow down to me? Would you willingly give up on the incense offerings, even if it means you''ll no longer be able to extend your longevity? Would you stop using the lives of the humble beings of the mortal realm as leverage against me? Answer me honestly!"

    ".." The Nine Thunders Sovereign gritted his teeth, his gaze icy as he faced Yun Xiao, but remained silent.

    Yun Xiao burst intoughter.

    "If you can¡¯t do that, what grand principles are you pretending to uphold?" Yun Xiao stared intently at the Nine Thunders Sovereign. "The White Emperor has prolonged his life with the incense offerings for countless years¡ªI don¡¯t believe the sessive Sovereigns of the Thunder Department were unaware. You so faithfully serve such a master, ruthlessly eliminating any with opposing views,beling them as naive heroes. What kind of heartless creature are you, not even ashamed? The so-called pressure from Naraka is just an excuse for your greed. Could true warriors really start by sucking the blood of their kin without even a fight? Your readiness to justify your sins from the outset shows you''ve never seen the beings of the mortal realm as more than livestock, only caring about yourselves, not them!"

    Yun Xiao, usually not a man of many words, now unleashed a torrent of harsh truth, each sentence piercing the ears of the Nine Thunders Sovereign like a relentless series of sword thrusts, darkening his expression with each hit.

    "So, let me summarize for you¡ªyou all are nothing but ipetent, greedy, immoral, selfish, and twisted bastards! You clothe yourselves in titles of honor, strut about like men of stature, hold grand banquets with divine peaches, and drink celestial wine while feasting on exquisite dishes, living lives of drunken stupor! A spectacle of decadence! And yet, you dare to defend your vile acts with the grandiose pretense of life and death morals?"

    The reason the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s face soured was clear¡ªYun Xiao had struck a nerve.

    "All this talk of the incense offerings saving the Celestial Court is nothing but an excuse! You swarm through like locusts, plundering the lives of themon folk. Your ipetence is one thing! Hypocrisy another! Arrogance a third! Immorality a fourth! You worms controlling the heavenly way truly warrant a change of dynasty!"

    Yun Xiao''s final words twisted the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s face into a grimace.

    Never before had someone dared to rip off their masks so violently on the high tiers of the Celestial Court!

    Even the Chaos Sovereign, with his slick words and deep machinations, who made a show of regretting not having met the White Emperor sooner¡ªwas he not the same?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Unspoken truths lingered, leaving the Nine Thunders Sovereign almost convinced of his own nobility!

    "Well said! What kind of rulers feast on the flesh and bones of their subjects under the pretense of restraint, iming it''s to save them from the enemy who might consume more? The war hasn''t even started yet! A fool remains a fool! You bastards really do deserve death. If you''re useless, you should''ve stepped down and let the more capable take your ce!"

    The NIne Thunder Sovereign''s earlier words had shaken Cau Shuo. But Yun Xiao''s spirited speech finally settled her heart, inming her righteous fury while bringing tears to her eyes.

    "Nine Thunders Sovereign, you im to stand for justice? Now here''s your chance¡ªbow to him, abandon the incense offerings, and follow him to forge a new dawn for humanity. Will you?" Cao Shuo, struggling, spat these words at the Nine Thunders Sovereign beside her.

    "Silence!" With a thunderous roar, the Nine Thunders Sovereign swept his gaze over Cao Shuo, and a surge of multicolored lightning erupted, shocking her until she bled!

    <em>BOOM! </em>He turned away, teeth clenched, and hissed at Yun Xiao, "Those who disrupt the Celestial Court will have their entire ns exterminated for generations! Yun Xiao, today I shall enact heavenly justice, sever your karma, and protect the Great Dao Celestial Realm for eternity!"

    Seeing his rage, Yun Xiao merelyughed.

    He gave the Nine Thunders Sovereign a thumbs up. "Wouldn''t it have been better to be this straightforward from the start? Tomit all those heartless deeds and still pretend virtue¡ªhow despicable is that?"

 Chapter 660: Ray of Hope

    Chapter 660: Ray of Hope

    "Rebel!" The Nine Thunders Sovereign spoke with authority, his words transforming into a thunderous roar that exploded through the void.

    His patience with Yun Xiao hadpletely evaporated!

    The dispute had reached a point where words were useless!

    Now that masks were torn off, the truth would be shown through action alone.

    "I want to see how you survived the hands of the Chaos Sovereign!"

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign was enveloped in electricity, his violet hair unfurling like a sky-covering of lightning. He leapt into the air, looming over Yun Xiao!

    "Be careful!" Gu Suwan and Cao Shuo, two women, one hiding and the other trapped, both turned pale and cried out in rm.

    Living within the Thunder Department, they were well aware of the divine might of the Rank 1 Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign served as a benchmark of the Celestial Court''s might. He was renowned across the cosmos and a warrior at heart. He was one of the most powerful among the Eight Great Sovereigns and known as the Arbiter King!Crucially, the Nine Thunders Sovereign now held a hostage!

    True to form, the Nine Thunders Sovereign swiftly manipted the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron, trapping Cao Shuo and bearing it directly towards Yun Xiao''s head.

    This was like 10,000 thunderous mountains crashing down!

    "Yun Xiao, you can face this head-on, but if the impact is too great, either you or she will surely die. A man of your stature wouldn''t let his woman die a wrongful death, right?" The Nine Thunders Sovereign''s words exemplified the lengths to which these Immortals would go to achieve their goals!

    As the Nine Thunders Sovereign finished speaking, the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron reached Yun Xiao''s head. Looking up, Yun Xiao saw the cauldron like a celestial pool of thunder, its booming sound drowning out all others, including Cao Shuo''s screams.

    One inside the cauldron, the other outside!

    Life and death hung in the bnce of a moment!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Despicable."

    If Yun Xiao chose to let Blue Star and Red Moon st the cauldron away, the intense impact might indeed tear Cao Shuo inside into pieces.

    With a frown, Yun Xiao¡¯s brow furrowed, and from his forehead, the Prison Warden Life transformed into the Runic Umbre.

    For the first time, Yun Xiao grasped the Runic Umbre with both hands, supporting it with the celestial power of the Establishment Celestial Expanse Realm!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The three massive legs of the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron pressed down upon the Runic Umbre, a thunderous explosion ensued, and despite the umbre¡¯s 22 Rune Prisons, it twisted and warped instantly.

    The Runic Umbre cracked but did not break. It was pinned beneath the Thunder Cauldron and pressed down upon Yun Xiao''s shoulders!

    With a thunderous crash, Yun Xiao spat blood, his knee mming onto the deck of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark. His flesh split, revealing awork of fine blood lines, while a violent of lightning serpents swarmed around him, strangling him mercilessly!

    This was but a casual press from the Nine Thunders Sovereign, and already it pushed Yun Xiao to his limits!

    "Lu Yao, how are you holding up?!" Cao Shuo called out from within the cauldron, bound by nine chains of colorful electricity, herself severely wounded.

    Her face, panic-stricken as she looked down, could almost hear the sound of breaking bones, tearing her heart apart.

    "It''s nothing..." Though faint, these words carried such immense confidence and resolve that they steadied Cao Shuo amidst her despair and panic, like a drowning person clutching onto a lifesaver.

    The young man in white had his garments torn apart, revealing the perfect physique marred by blood beneath. He waspletely bound by violet lightning serpents, his body trembling under the immense weight of the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron.

    Yet, Yun Xiao withstood it!

    The Prison Warden Sigil took on the form of the Dao Dragon, forming violet dragon patterns that clung to his skin, making him resemble a human-shaped violet dragon.

    After resisting the pressure, the young man lifted his head, his eyes filled with disdain and fearlessness as he faced the imposing and tyrannical Sovereign of the Thunder Department.

    But the Nine Thunders Sovereignughed at this sight.

    "Only 30% of my strength, and you''re at your limit? Impressive, almost at Cao Sheng''s level. But, do you really think you can stand before me and boast with just that? Where''s that trump card you used to survive against Lu Fan? Can it only be used once?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign sneered.

    Yun Xiao gritted his teeth, withstanding the mountainous pressure by his own strength, and scoffed, "You''re not worthy of my trump cards."

    The Nine Thunders Sovereignughed again.

    "The more you try to put on a brave front, the more foolish and mediocre you reveal yourself to be." The Nine Thunders Sovereign shook his head. "It seems I was mistaken about you, perhaps deceived by your earlier performance. In the end, you''re just ordinary."

    With that, the Nine Thunders Sovereign wasted no more time.

    His gaze hardened, and the pressure from the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron on Yun Xiao''s shoulder abruptly soared.

    Twofold, threefold, and then tenfold!

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign concluded that Yun Xiao had no more trump cards. If he no longer had the ability to contend with Lu Fan, then he might as well be killed and dissected!

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign unleashed his annihting power to its fullest!

    The Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron erupted with a deafening roar, like a titanic beast breaking free, its maw of lightning gaping wide to devour Yun Xiao''s diminutive form.

    "No, no, no..."

    Tears filled the eyes of both Cao Shuo and Gu Suwan. The former cried out of pity and pain, thetter out of regret and panic for what was toe.

    "So merciless?" Yun Xiao had hoped to dy a bit longer, but the Nine Thunders Sovereign gave no such chance.

    Left with no options, Yun Xiao had to <em>pay</em> his way out of this disaster.

    The full force of this Rank 1 Nine Thunders Sovereign wasparable to the sudden p from Lu Fan!

    In this moment of despair for Cao Shuo and Gu Suwan, just as Yun Xiao was about to be crushed, a sudden outline of a coffin appeared around him, taking the brunt of the cauldron''s force.

    And so, the pressure on Yun Xiao abruptly vanished!

    What followed were moments where every second cost him dearly, much to his distress.

    "Hmm?"

    The sudden appearance of the coffin shadow made the Nine Thunders Sovereign squint sharply.

    "Atst, it appears!"

    This mysterious coffin!

    A glint of greed shed through the Nine Thunders Sovereign as he realized that despite his full power, he could not budge the copper coffin.

    "This boy keeps escaping death because of this treasure!"

    His eyes burned with a fierce blend of rage and greed, forging an even deeper cruelty.

    "He''s not dead?"

    Cao Shuo inside the cauldron felt it too.

    Before she could breathe a sigh of relief, she heard the Nine Thunders Sovereign sneer, "It seems this coffin is yourst resort. But can it save Cao Shuo?"

    As his words fell, the annihting power of the entire Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron dissipated, concentrating all its destructive force into the nine colored lightning snakes inside the cauldron, striking towards Cao Shuo!

    Such terrifying divine might, even a mere touch was enough to obliterate both the spirit and form of Cao Shuo!

    Under this deadly assault, Cao Shuo paused, then suddenlyughed.

    She couldn''t be happier. Her death would free Yun Xiao from any hindrance! She was not afraid to die! After all, she had not lived in vain.

    To be honest, Cao Shuo had been confused all her life, always an outsider. Now, facing death, she felt an immense relief and satisfaction, a sense ofpletion as if her life had reached its fulfillment.

    She truly hadn''t lived in vain!

    So, she even rxed her body, a smile spreading across her face.

    In this moment of ease, she suddenly heard Yun Xiao''s calm reply to the Nine Thunders Sovereign!

    "Of course, it can save her."

    Startled, Cao Shuo looked up, and for some reason, the whole world turned dark as if she had been enclosed somewhere!

    The Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron suddenly began to vibrate violently, its annihting power seemingly absorbed by some force. Then, the colorful chains inside the cauldron snapped back, ejecting Cao Shuo out!

    She was saved!

    Cao Shuonded on the ground with a thud, her mind buzzing, unable toprehend what had happened.

    Then she saw the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron next to her, crashing madly towards the outside.

    <em>BOOM! </em>It didn''t take many hits before a corner of this dark world cracked open, letting the cauldron escape!

    "Where are we?" Cao Shuo asked, her voice trembling.

    "Inside the coffin," Yun Xiao''s voice echoed in the confined space.

    "Am I safe?" Cao Shuo looked puzzled,pletely unaware of what had happened.

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign sneered, asking if he could still save Cao Shuo?

    Yun Xiao gave his answer and immediately saved her, just like that!

    Cao Shuo hadn''t even processed it yet, and on the deck of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, the Nine Thunders Sovereign was in the same boat.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He caught the now empty Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron, his eyes shing with electricity as he looked towards Yun Xiao.

    The young man stood there, one man and one coffin, suspended in the air, still calm and indifferent.

    "Whew!" The Nine Thunders Sovereign exhaled deeply, his voice chillingly cold, "You can save her, but you can''t seal my cauldron, which means your coffin also has its limits."

    "You''re quite the guesser," Yun Xiao said.

    "Hehe..." The Nine Thunders Sovereign suddenly pped his hands in admiration. "With such a coffin, endlessly versatile, your resources are indeed formidable."

    "So, you''re thinking of backing down?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Unfortunately!" The Nine Thunders Sovereign lowered his head, his expression dark. "Unfortunately for you, Cao Shuo was just a minor leverage for me. My greatest leverage lies behind me, beyond anyone''s help."

    Behind the Nine Thunders Sovereigny the birthce of the Immortal Asylum¡ªYun Xiao''s homnd!

    Though still a distance away, this posed no challenge for the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    "There''s only one way for you to survive, Yun Xiao," the Nine Thunders Sovereign said gravely.

    "Kill you before you reach my homnd," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Exactly!" The Nine Thunders Sovereign frowned at him. "The question is, can you do it?"

    Yun Xiao pointed behind him and said, "Initially no, but after buying some time, I think I can now."

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign''s gaze turned sharply colder!

    His pupils contracted as he nced back.

    There in the void, a woman with silver hair and a strikingly cold beauty emerged in a swiftly moving sword boat.

    It was the Moon Sword Goddess, Yue Yin!

    Seeing her, a fierce rage surged in the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s heart.

    "Indeed, at any time, women are the weakest, always the easiest to kneel and fawn."

    One was enough! But two or three? Even this Rank 2 Heavenly Officer from the Immortal Sword Court had turned traitor!

    She and Gu Suwan were nothing like Cao Shuo, who had a bleeding heart. Why were they still so soft, so despicable?

    Rage burned in the chest of the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The Moon Sword Goddess moved swiftly to Yun Xiao''s side, bowed slightly, and handed him a Bag of Holding, saying, "Sorry I''mte, you''ve been hurt."

    "It doesn''t matter." Yun Xiao nced at her. "How much did you get?"

    "All of it, the entire stock is here, umted over a thousand generations, about 10,000," Yue Yin replied.

    "That''s enough." Yun Xiao grasped the Bag of Holding, his voice icy. "After all, not everyone is willing to part with their Sword Heart..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    <strong>Yun Xiao about to desecrate the legacy of ancestors...</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 661: Shredded Into a Bloody Pulp!

    Chapter 661: Shredded Into a Bloody Pulp!

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, Sword Hearts were the most abundant in the Immortal Sword Court.

    These Immortal Sword Hearts, enduring through the ages,y unused.

    Yue Yin, ranked among the top five in status within the Immortal Sword Court, knew that as long as she wasn''t afraid to die, taking these final vestiges of her predecessors would be effortless.

    "Senior Sister, will they be useful?" Cao Shuo was flung from a bronze coffin, her face a picture of confusion, her heart pounding, and her chest heaving.

    She had this question¡­ and indeed, Yue Yin didn¡¯t know either.

    Logically, a being like the Nine Thunders Sovereign wouldn''t likely be constrained by a mere Sword Heart.

    "Stay back," Yun Xiao waved his hand, signaling to Cao Shuo and Yue Yin.

    "Don''t you need my help?"

    Yue Yin thought it was her turn for a desperate struggle.To safeguard Yun Xiao''s homnd, she had to y the Nine Thunders Sovereign in this deserted no-man¡¯snd.

    It was a mad venture she wouldn''t have dared consider before!

    "No need." Yun Xiao¡¯s casual remark sent her heart racing.

    Even the bronze coffin seemed to vanish! Where did his convictione from?

    And so, Yue Yin and Cao Shuo, dazed, joined Gu Suwan on the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    Three mature, charming women, each with their own allure, exchanged looks¡ªfilled with worry, yet tinged with anticipation.

    "So, did you two get with him too?" Cao Shuo suddenly asked softly.

    "Cao Shuo, what are you saying? Watch your mouth!" Gu Suwan snapped, biting her lip.

    After all, she was a decent woman; her husband had just died. How could she be impure?

    Yue Yin, speechless, gave Cao Shuo a look and said, "Just shut up."

    Seeing their reaction, clearly different from her own, Cao Shuo murmured, "That¡¯s strange, if you two haven¡¯t been conquered by him, why would you bet on him¡­"

    Gu Suwan and Yue Yin were at a loss for words.

    "Look," Yue Yin pointed at Yun Xiao. "If this battle really exceeds our imaginations, if he achieves that feat¡­ what do you think?"

    Cao Shuo raised an eyebrow and spoke softly, "Would you lower your proud stature to serve him closely, if you were willing?"

    "Can you just stop talking?" Yue Yin said, slightly angered.

    "You''d surely agree," Cao Shuo said with a covered smile and a hum, "You, who once paraded your virtues before me, are now subdued by this youngster. Don''t worry, I''m not possessive; you should drop the act from now on."

    "Enough..." Gu Suwan was still deeply worried.

    Yun Xiao carried a significant burden on his shoulders!

    So, Gu Suwan watched the void anxiously, her voice trembling, "Whether there''s a future or not... it''s still uncertain."

    "Indeed."

    Yue Yin and Cao Shuo finally ceased their bickering.

    The three maidens, whose ages summed up to over a thousand years, whether it be the Thunder Department¡¯s seductress, the frosty female Sword Immortal, or the virtuous young stepmother¡­ All of them sped their hands tightly, eyes quivering as they watched the 16-year-old boy, their hearts thumping wildly...

    They were nervous!

    And the Nine Thunders Sovereign, with stormy eyes fixed on the youth, was already radiating a murderous aura!

    "You and Lu Fan, you both have the knack for bewitching women, huh? Why else would a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer steal the greatest treasure of the Immortal Sword Court for you?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign coldly spoke.

    "Don''tpare me to him," Yun Xiao coolly raised his head, "I am merely handsome."

    And truly, Yun Xiao was handsome. With his upper garments torn off and only his lower half covered, he appearedpletely bare-chested. His wless and muscr physique, wrapped in violet dragon patterns, was fully revealed to all. As he wielded his three-foot azure sword, he really looked like a deity!

    "You don''t really think that mere Sword Hearts could stop me, do you?" the Nine Thunders Sovereign frowned deeply.

    "Let''s try." Yun Xiao spoke, then opened his Bag of Holding, his gaze defiant.

    "Quite the showman," the Nine Thunders Sovereign scoffed.

    His gaze shifted beyond Yun Xiao, toward a distant star.

    With his might, even three other Sovereigns couldn''t stop him from obliterating a mortal realm.

    For these lesser realms, the Nine Thunders Sovereign was supreme god able to annihte billions of beings with a mere gesture!

    "I want to see how you''ll stop me!"

    As the Nine Thunders Sovereign spoke, his celestial power burst forth explosively.

    In an instant, furious lightning serpents again obscured the heavens!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Nine Thunders Sovereign''s body exploded suddenly, forming nine gigantic thunder orbs!

    Within those shing orbs, nine violet-haired young men coalesced!

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign was true to his namesake! He possessed the Nine Thunders Martial Immortal bloodline, which stood at the pinnacle of the Thunder Department! His Seed of Creation was so potent that it allowed for a family legacy.

    This Seed of Creation was the Nine Extreme Thunder Seed.

    It was this very Nine Extreme Thunder Seed that enabled him to split into nine avatars, each with nearly invincible power at their level.

    At this moment, the nine violet-haired youths stood like towering thunder gods, hovering above the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, forming nine poles. They controlled a vastwork of electrics and thunder serpents, pressing down upon Yun Xiao!

    But there was more toe!

    Once the nine poles were established, the hair and eye colors of eight of the Nine Thunders Sovereigns began to change, as did the colors of the electric serpents entwined around them.

    Eventually, the Nine Thunders Sovereigns manifested in nine different colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet, gold, and silver!

    Red-haired, orange-haired, yellow-haired, golden-haired, silver-haired, and so on!

    This was not merely a change in color, but also in the properties of their thunder, like the metallic attributes of the golden thunder, harsh and unyielding, and the fiery nature of the red thunder...

    Nine types of thunder, nine types of divine might!

    This was the ultimate form of the Nine Extreme Thunder Seed!

    At this moment, the Nine Thunders Sovereign was truly explosive!

    "Come!"

    All nine of his bodies shouted in unison, and suddenly the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron split open, transforming into nine ck spears that fell into their hands!

    Crackling with energy, the scene was electrifying!

    ck electric serpents coiled around the spears, intertwining with the vibrant spectrum of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet, gold, and silver serpents, unleashing a more ferocious collision!

    Before him, Yun Xiao seemed like a lone white dove amidst a storm!

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign''s advantage was visibly immense!

    His might and terror were palpable to Yun Xiao.

    "So strong, yet instead of facing your opponent, you target a mortal realm?"

    This was the so-called defender of the heavenly order!

    The stronger the Nine Thunders Sovereign grew, the angrier Yun Xiao felt.

    "The Immortal Sword Court, a sacrednd of celestial swordsmanship, ims to be a new force of the Celestial Court contending against the Thunder Department. Yet aren''t both you and the Northstar Sword Devil justckeys of the White Emperor?" Yun Xiao scoffed coldly.

    All of them were just dogs! He then tore open the Bag of Holding.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Almost 10,000 Sword Hearts spilled out before him!

    On each Sword Heart, traces of Sword Prisons were visible, these prisons bing miniature worlds, indelibly etched on the surface of the Sword Hearts!

    Visible to the naked eye, each of these Sword Hearts was far stronger than any he''d encountered in the mortal realm!

    Instead of defending the heavenly way, such powerful swords had been aimed atmon folk!

    Yun Xiao felt no sentiment towards these Sword Hearts as he flung them all out in the air. Like a primordial beast, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul opened its maw to unleash a dark azure storm, swallowing all of them in one gulp!

    In that moment, the power of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul exploded!

    The dark azure storm crystallized into a massive ghastly hell, within which the twisted visages of 10,000 swordmasters could be seen.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>With each explosion from the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, its divine sword might soared anew!

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>The space around the void violently shattered, countless fissures veiling the heavens and earth, even obscuring the thunderouswork of the Nine Thunders Sovereign!

    "The power..." Yun Xiao was nearly suffocated! It was explosively strong! He stood like a peerless Sword Devil, suddenly overshadowing the sun!

    "How could this be..." Yue Yin, as a Sword Immortal, witnessed this scene and was utterly stunned.

    "Hmm?" The nine avatars of the Nine Thunders Sovereign furrowed their brows.

    The youth, swallowed by the dark azure hell, had surged to a terrifying level in an instant.

    "Impossible!"

    The nine bodies roared, no longer hesitating, transforming into nine colorful thunder pirs, crashing down towards Yun Xiao!

    "Here ites..."

    From Yun Xiao''s eyes, two dark azure dragons burst forth!

    The fury of 10,000 swords converged upon his de!

    <em>KLANG! </em>With a low growl, he thrust his sword!

    "Die!"

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A 3,000-meter-long dark azure Sword Aura suddenly pierced through, tearing the void, annihting the thunder, and erupting with unstoppable force, instantly swallowing the nine thunder pirs!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Supreme Ultimate Thunder Cauldron trembled before violently exploding into fragments, swept up by the whirlwind of sword energy.

    And amid the whirlwind, the nine bodies of the Nine Thunders Sovereign were shredded together and melded into one. Bloodied and maimed, they fell from the void and crashed directly onto the Nine Thunders Divine Ark!

    A mass of lightning and gorended before Yun Xiao!

    And the young man in white, his body swirling with devilish sword energy, stepped on the bloody pulp, his roar piercing the sky, "What Nine Heavens Responding Origin Thunder Voice Universalizing Sovereign? In the end, he became a pile of mush just like the lowly mortals he looked down on!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

 Chapter 662: Solo to Chorus!

    Chapter 662: Solo to Chorus!

    The almighty Nine Thunders Sovereign had been transformed into a bloody mound of lightning-charred flesh!

    The collective legacy of almost 10,000 ancestors of the Immortal Sword Court was simply too overwhelming! Their Sword Prisonsbined amounted to almost 1,000,000!

    Of course, after turning into Sword Hearts, the power of the Sword Prisons was greatly diminished, certainly not as formidable as in their prime.

    But its explosive power was still enough to execute a Sovereign of the Celestial Court!

    Yun Xiao even felt a tinge of regret. He should have retained half of the Sword Hearts.

    About 5,000 Sword Hearts would have been enough to finish off the Nine Thunders Sovereign!

    After all, many of these Sword Hearts belonged to Sword Immortals close to the power of the Nine Thunders Sovereign.

    With one stroke, the Nine Thunders Sovereign was extinguished!

    Be it the Nine Extreme Thunder Seed, or the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldrons¡­ in front of absolute power, they could not withstand a single blow!The Nine Thunders Sovereign died in utter astonishment¡­ In the moment before his death, he couldn¡¯tprehend it.

    "What is this..." His agonized spirit, before fading into oblivion, voiced the same question as the others, and thereafter, transformed into a Buddha''s Treasure, which was absorbed by Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao''s sword shattered the heavens and silenced the thunder!

    As he stepped over the remains of the Nine Thunders Sovereign, everything began to calm down.

    Yet behind Yun Xiao, the hearts of Yue Yin, Cao Shuo, and Gu Suwan were caught in a tumultuous tremor.

    Their lips slightly parted, eyes widened in disarray, and breath halted!

    It was a scalp-numbing, knee-buckling sensation. They felt like they were floating above the clouds, their bodies turning into air¡­

    These three distinct women, at this moment, whether in demeanor, gesture, or gaze, even the quivering of their lips, were exactly the same.

    "T-the¡­. Nine, Nine Thunders Sovereign..." Yue Yin, who didn''t belong to the Thunder Department, was the first to recover.

    She stared nkly at Yun Xiao, her dazed eyes slowly filling with a crazed devotion.

    In her eyes, the youth before her, bare-chested with perfect muscles, was no longer a boy but a towering supreme deity, melting all the frost on her body.

    And Gu Suwan was the most shaken of them all.

    Gu Suwan knew better than anyone the stature of the Nine Thunders Sovereign, the master of the Thunder Department, a giant of the Celestial Court, a revered elder she looked up to!

    And yet, he was annihted by a youth with a single strike!

    Even if it was with the borrowed power of the Sword Hearts, that very sword pierced through Gu Suwan''s own heart, subjugating herpletely as tears streamed down her face.

    Before, there had been fear, but now, like Yue Yin, she was convinced that Yun Xiao would soon turn the Great Dao Celestial Realm upside down.

    No one could stand in his way!

    Seeing was believing, after all!

    Exhaling deeply, the two women felt as though they were in a steamy cauldron, both feverish and exhausted.

    Meanwhile, Cao Shuo, ustomed to being stunned, reacted with less surprise and more eptance.

    She patted her sisters on their backs,ughing, "Did I not tell you?"

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan, speechless, could only nod in dazed agreement.

    Their eyes could no longer stray from the youth.

    At this moment, Yun Xiao was discussing the next steps with Blue Star and Red Moon.

    "So this Seed of Creation is of no use to me?" Hearing this, Yun Xiao felt a hint of disappointment. He had been fond of the human flesh talent it represented.

    The thought of splitting into nine to surround his foes seemed incredibly cool to him¡ªthis Seed of Creation felt like the coolest he had encountered so far.

    Blue Star exined, "This thing is about division, but your true essence is about unity. You could absorb it, but it would only be somewhat useful short-term and would limit your future growth if you divided into nine bodies."

    "Alright then." Yun Xiao was nonchnt. If it was of no use, he wouldn¡¯t force it.

    But then, Blue Star added, "It might be useless for you, but it could be useful for someone else."

    "Can I transfer this talent to someone else?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Aren¡¯t you and Cao Shuo deeply connected through the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Cauldron? In a way, she¡¯s almost like an extension of you, and also a Martial Immortal. With your help, her Yin Thunder Furnace could probably absorb this Seed of Creation," Blue Star suggested.

    With that, Yun Xiao began to ponder.

    He did indeed want to cultivate a trustworthy ally in this Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Cao Shuo was the perfect candidate, but her innate talent wasn¡¯t on par with the highest echelons of the Celestial Court. Just relying on the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace seemed somewhat inadequate.

    "How do we proceed?" Yun Xiao had only ever transferred a Seed of Creation to Moon Fairy and the War Princess before.

    "First absorb it, then through the bridge of the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace, channel it into her Yin Thunder Furnace. You¡¯ll need to control the process carefully, otherwise, she might explode," Blue Star chuckled.

    "Ah, I''m so jealous!" Red Moon eximed through clenched teeth, envyced in every word.

    Yun Xiao, although a bit speechless, was not embarrassed.

    "Thunder Emissary Cao,e here," Yun Xiao suddenly called out, turning his head.

    Just then, the Azure Rain Sword Vessel hadnded on the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, and three distinctively styled women stepped out.

    Apart from Cao Shuo, the two nking her bowed their heads slightly, showing their reverence.

    "What¡¯s up?" Cao Shuo asked.

    "Come with me for a moment," Yun Xiao said casually, scooping up the Nine Thunder Sovereign''s Seed of Creation as he spoke to Gu Suwan and Yue Yin, "You two wait here for a bit."

    "Mhm." The two nodded quickly.

    After having just killed the Nine Thunders Sovereign, Yun Xiao now wanted a private meeting with Cao Shuo? They were both quite puzzled.

    "So secretive," Cao Shuo muttered, biting her lip as she followed Yun Xiao into the Nine Thunders Divine Ark.

    As soon as they entered, Yun Xiao turned around and, without a word, tore at the hem of Cao Shuo''s dress.

    "Are you that backed up? It hasn''t even been a day!" Cao Shuo gasped, her lips parting, her tongue frozen in mid-air, her heart racing.

    "What, not in the mood?" Yun Xiao asked, raising an eyebrow.

    Cao Shuo coughed softly, her head bowed in a shy whisper, "Let the storme more fiercely... and with more lightning."

    "I¡¯ll electrify you!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back on the deck of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark.

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan finally rxed a bit.

    "He¡¯s too powerful," Gu Suwan said, still somewhat dazed, looking at Yue Yin.

    "Mhm," Yue Yin nodded, "A real monster."

    They were in agreement.

    Without saying much more, they both knew they were truly in the same boat now.

    To break the awkward silence, Gu Suwan changed the subject, "I wonder, right after ying the Nine Thunders Sovereign, why did he want to see Cao Shuo alone?"

    "Probably some secret discussion they can¡¯t let us know about yet¡­" Yue Yin said somewhat disheartened.

    Did that mean they weren¡¯t fully trusted?

    They exchanged a nce, both feeling a bit down.

    However, just then, the Nine Thunders Divine Ark began to shake, apanied by Cao Shuo¡¯s unmistakable loud moans.

    They knew that sound all too well...

    Both women stood frozen in ce.

    Peering inside, they saw the Nine Thunders Divine Ark aglow with electric waves, pulsing forth in bursts.

    "They''re..."

    Both Yue Yin and Gu Suwan blushed with embarrassment, their hearts aflutter with peculiar emotions.

    "The door, the door wasn''t closed properly..." Gu Suwan said with a trembling voice.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Yes..." Yue Yin trembled even more, for although she was the oldest, she was inexperienced in such matters.

    "Such loud moaning¡­ Is he really that good? Or is she just pretending¡­?" Gu Suwan muttered scornfully under her breath.

    "It doesn''t sound fake..." Yue Yin said subconsciously.

    They exchanged nces once more, then quickly looked away.

    It was too much to bear!

    "I''m going to check," Gu Suwan suddenly dered.

    "Maybe you shouldn''t?" Yue Yin said, looking down.

    "I don''t believe this!" Gu Suwan bit her lip and stealthily crept closer.

    "Don''t, please." Yue Yin waved her hand in protest, but as if possessed, she followed closely behind Gu Suwan.

    It was just a short distance.

    Yet, on this brief journey, it seemed they left behind all their pride, decency, and dignity.

    All that remained was their awe and submission to the one who defied the heavens.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Stay sharp, activate your Yin Thunder Furnace, I''m transferring the Seed of Creation to you."

    Inside the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, Yun Xiao whispered to Cao Shuo.

    "I have no energy left," she replied.

    <em>SMACK! </em>Yun Xiao pped her butt, causing her pain and her cheeks to swell red.

    With this, she snapped back to reality, biting her lip and ring at Yun Xiao!

    Was he serious about hitting her?

    Yun Xiao ignored her reaction, focusing entirely on transferring the Seed of Creation bit by bit into her Yin Thunder Furnace.

    "This is the cloning talent of the Nine Thunders Sovereign, which I am now transferring into you. You have to merge your Yin Thunder Furnace with it to form nine furnaces. You need to cooperate. This is perilous; don''t be careless!" Yun Xiao dered with a stern, cold voice.

    "Yes, yes, yes..." Cao Shuo, realizing this was a chance to alter her fate, concentrated fully.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Surging colorful thunderlight engulfed them, forming a sphere of colorful electric energy.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The fusion and impacts of the Yin-Yang Thunder Furnaces continued, causing the Nine Thunders Divine Ark to shake continuously, making it difficult for those standing on it to remain stable.

    Whether Cao Shuo had lived her life in vain was now evident.

    Amidst the roaring thunder, and under the shocking visual assault, it took Yue Yin about half an hour to catch her breath and tremble out, "I think... he might be transferring the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s talent into my junior sister."

    "It''s starting to split..." murmured Gu Suwan as she clutched the window frame tightly.

    From inside the colorful light sphere, the woman¡¯s voice slowly shifted from a <em>solo </em>to a <em>chorus</em>.

    More and more voices joined!

    "It¡¯s done!"

    When Yun Xiao saw nine identical Cao Shuos arrayed before him, he finally allowed himself a slight breath of relief.

    She had perfectly absorbed the Seed of Creation, each body possessing a massive Yin Thunder Furnace. This meant that under the nourishment of the Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace, her potential might far exceed the Nine Thunders Sovereign!

    These nine Cao Shuos were like nine seductresses. Although split into nine, each was fully formed, with substantial heft.

    The coolest part was, besides the original''s violet curly hair and violet eyes, the other eight varied in colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, gold, and silver for both hair and eyes!

    Red-haired like fire, with crimson electricity entwined, fiery and passionate!

    Gold-haired shining, with golden electricity like dragons, majestic and grand!

    Blue-haired and lingering, with blue electricity like water, tender and emotive!

    Though identical in appearance and substance, these different avatars each carried a distinct charm...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 663: Five Thunders Spirit Tribulation!

    Chapter 663: Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion!

    Yun Xiao could only express his amazement. It was the same Nine Extremes Thunder Seed; but when fully harnessed by Cao Shuo, her allure was not merely ten times greater than that of Nine Kites¡ªit was beyondparison!

    Indeed, the two were not even in the same league!

    Before him, a line of colorful seductresses stood. Even Yun Xiao, who had seen all manners of beauties, had to admit; this was utterly explosive!

    Who under the heavens could contend with this?

    "Excellent!" Yun Xiao was very pleased with this sess, nodding to Cao Shuo. "With this, you can be of great assistance to me."

    After speaking, he went to fetch the Bag of Holding, and prepared to put some clothes back on.

    But then, a golden-haired Cao Shuo took his hand. She bit her red lip gently, her eyes sultry as silk, "Ninefold lightning bliss, wouldn''t you like to experience it?"

    "What?"

    Before Yun Xiao could react, he was pulled into a vast ocean.It was an ocean formed of waves, boundless and breathtaking, suffocating in its vastness.

    And for the first time, Yun Xiao truly experienced suffocation...

    Smothered by pleasure! What marvel had he truly created?

    "Well, since resistance is futile, I might as well drift with the current..."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    On the deck of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark¡­

    Inside, a colorful electric rainbow shone, while the two outsiders, numbed, had long since stood aside, speechless.

    From time to time, they nced towards the spectacle, unable to contain their envy of Cao Shuo. But whether this envy stemmed from the talent upgrade, Yun Xiao''s trust, or something else, was hard to say. Perhaps it was all of the above!

    "Cao Shuo has truly bet right and soared to the heavens," Yue Yin spoke deeply.

    "You''ve never been wed; that option is still open to you," Gu Suwan remarked.

    Yue Yin shook her head. "His path represents all living beings. I''ve epted the incense offerings; whether I live or die is uncertain."

    Gu Suwan could only bow her head, the same applied to her.

    Both suffered in this prolonged agony, not knowing when it would end.

    Suddenly, above the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, a massive grayish brown tribtion cloud began to gather, looking like a floatingndmass, its surface filled with earth-toned lightning, snaking like dragons.

    "Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion!" Yue Yin eximed, looking skyward, deeply moved.

    "Cao Shuo is advancing to the Anima Tribtion Realm!" Gu Suwan dered, her voice rich with envy.

    The Anima Tribtion Realm was the sixth level of the Third Dao Tribtion,ing after the Golden Immortal Realm, and represented a pivotal transformation. It was simr to the Wind Fire Tribtion Realm of the First Dao Tribtion and Five Cmities Realm of the Second Dao Tribtion, marking a metamorphosis.

    This particr tribtion targeted the spirit. And oveing it would lead to a transformation of the spirit.

    The Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion spanned five stages¡ªEarly, Mid, Late, Perfect, and Establishment¡ªeach corresponding to phases in the tribtion.

    Both Rank 3 Heavenly Officers of the Celestial Court, Gu Suwan and the deceased Cao Sheng were in the Establishment Golden Immortal Realm and Early Anima Tribtion Realm respectively.

    Now, the Rank 4 Thunder Emissary Cao Shuo was on the verge of surpassing Gu Suwan!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The first of the Five Thunders, the Earth Pulse Thunder, struck down!

    Together, Cao Shuo and Yun Xiao conjured a colorful barrier of electricity and departed from the Nine Thunders Divine Ark to face the Earth Pulse Thunder in the air.

    "These two, at a time like this..." Gu Suwan was at a loss for words.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Earth Pulse Thunder, like dozens of earthen dragons imbued with both soil and thunder, hammered against the colorful electric barrier, quickly getting absorbed into it.

    "With this kid aiding her, my junior sister¡¯s tribtion seems effortless," Yue Yin reflected on her own struggles during her first encounter with the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion, her emotions mixed.

    They were nothing but envious.

    "After breaking through to the Anima Tribtion Realm, Cao Shuo will be even more useful to him." Gu Suwan was beginning to fear that she might be entirely worthless, which could very well lead Yun Xiao to extinguish her with a single strike.

    Her trembling gaze was fixed on the colorful thunder in the sky, speechless.

    Just as her envy seemed to reach its peak, the tribtion clouds above did not disperse but turned a fiery red!

    Vast thunderbolts, like dragons of fire, appeared.

    "The second, the Volcanic Thunder! She''s breaking through two stages at once..."

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan were stunned. At their cultivation, a single breakthrough could take decades, or they might never advance beyond their current stage.

    But Cao Shuo, having allied herself with Yun Xiao, had leaped from Perfect Golden Immortal to Mid Anima Tribtion Realm in just a few days, even surpassing her older brother!!

    Some Rank 2 Ster Margraves were still in the Mid Anima Tribtion Realm!

    Meanwhile, Yue Yin herself had only recently advanced to the Late Anima Tribtion Realm.

    "Because she and Yun Xiao¡­ did <em>it</em> together?"

    Their eyes met, acknowledging the truth.

    Just by <em>exchanging</em><em>pointers </em>with Yun Xiao, Cao Shuo''s cultivation skyrocketed, soaring sky-high. Honestly, who wouldn''t desire such strength?

    Numbly, the two women watched as Cao Shuo reached the Mid Anima Tribtion Realm!

    But it wasn''t over yet!

    The third of the Five Thunders, the Moonwater Thunder, descended!

    Both women nearly choked as they watched Cao Shuo ovee the Moonwater Thunder and advance to the Late Anima Tribtion Realm.

    Cao Shuo was equal to Yue Yin! And with the Nine Extremes Thunder Seed, herbat prowess could very well surpass that of Yue Yin!

    A Rank 4 Thunder Emissary now surpassed most Rank 2 Ster Margraves!

    Looking at Cao Shuo, she seemed to be enjoying a blissful surge in power...n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    How could she be blessed with so much luck?

    Yue Yin was even green with regret; she was confident in her own capabilities because she had received the incense offerings¡­

    Now, the only thing that filled her heart was envy.

    Fortunately, Cao Shuo finally stopped at the Late Anima Tribtion Realm, no longer challenging the nerves of the two women.

    During this process, Yun Xiao also benefited. He refined his spirit into a golden body, radiating golden light, and achieved the Golden Immortal Realm!

    Now, Yun Xiao was an Early Golden Immortal! With his basebat power, Yun Xiao could now take on any Rank 2 or below Heavenly Officer without issue.

    "More, want more..." Within the colorful barrier, Cao Shuo was muttering in an intoxicated stupor.

    "More, my butt! Do you have an exhibition kink or something? They''re still here; have some shame!" Yun Xiao rolled his eyes.

    "I do! I want them to watch closely and envy me; that makes it even better!" The nine avatars of Cao Shuo hummed in unison.

    She had been oppressed by these two women in the past, feeling stifled. Today, she had her moment of triumph. Now looking down, her talents were unmatched, what did she have to fear?

    Yet, seeing Yun Xiao had other ns, she knew when to stop. She merged back into one, dressed neatly, and descended with Yun Xiao.

    Even so, her radiant face disyed the joy she had just experienced!

    Triumphant indeed!

    But, that was just her true nature.

    Unabashed and unabiding, Cao Shuo never hid her antics. Once the pretense wasplete, she looked at Yun Xiao with feigned annoyance in front of her sister-inw and senior sister, her cheeks blushing as she said, ¡°It¡¯s quite embarrassing, really. I told him not to fool around, but this boy insisted. Please excuse us.¡±

    Her words nearly made Gu Suwan and Yue Yin faint with irritation.

    ¡°Stop pretending,¡± Yun Xiao pointed to the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron on the ground and the Nine Thunders Divine Ark underfoot, ¡°Now that you have the Nine Extremes Thunder Seed, it''ll be easy for you to refine these treasures. So, I want you to station the ark nearby and use the cauldron to protect my homnd."

    ¡°I¡¯ve just begun to hold my head high, and now you want me to house-sit?¡± Cao Shuo pouted.

    ¡°Junior Sister, this is the greatest trust he could show you,¡± Yue Yin couldn¡¯t help but interject.

    She was eager for these two to part ways so she could apany Yun Xiao back.

    ¡°Please.¡± Cao Shuo knew exactly what Yue Yin was thinking; no one understood a woman''s heart quite like another woman.

    Of course, Yue Yin had a point. The myriad worlds was Yun Xiao¡¯s greatest concern. Safeguarding them for him would lift all his worries.

    Trust begets great responsibilities.

    ¡°This is a no-man¡¯snd. Flying talismans won¡¯t reach the Celestial Court, and no one knows the Nine Thunders Sovereign perished here. Let¡¯s act as if nothing happened,¡± Yun Xiao instructed them.

    With Cao Shuo¡¯s enhanced abilities and the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron, securing this area for a while shouldn¡¯t be an issue.

    ¡°And you?¡± Cao Shuo asked with concern.

    ¡°I¡¯ll return to the Thunder Department to continue my little game with Lu Fan,¡± Yun Xiao smiled.

    ¡°If things continue this way, the Celestial Court will eventually realize something went wrong with the Nine Thunders Sovereign,¡± Cao Shuo thought aloud.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I have a n,¡± Yun Xiao reassured her.

    Cao Shuo bit her lip in annoyance. ¡°Still so young and already so full of schemes. It¡¯s infuriating.¡±

    ¡°I''m going.¡± Yun Xiao, weary of the argument, stepped onto the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, clearly intending to take Gu Suwan and Yue Yin with him.

    ¡°Ugh men, all the same. Leaving right after finishing!¡± Cao Shuo was even more displeased.

    ¡°Enough, I¡¯ll make it up to youter! I''m heading off!¡± Yun Xiao said, unable to deal with her attitude any longer.

    With those words, the Azure Rain Sword Vessel vanished in an instant before Cao Shuo¡¯s eyes.

    And controlling the Azure Rain Sword Vessel was Gu Suwan¡­

    Cao Shuo watched the vessel disappear.

    Only when they were gone did she scoff, ¡°Two despicable women, one always acts so noble in front of me, the other constantly badmouths me to my older brother, driving a wedge between us. Serves them right to envy me today!¡±

    After speaking, Cao Shuo stretched out, finally unable to contain herughter, ¡°This is awesome!¡±

 Chapter 664: Narakas Supreme Demon!

    Chapter 664: Naraka''s Supreme Demon!

    In the Celestial Demon Abyss of Naraka, the Celestial Demon Conference was fervently underway.

    Within the pnquin, delicate young foxes one after another, were presented as <em>gifts</em>.

    Clearly, the fox demons bred in the Lunar Demon Cavern were sought-after luxuries here; this very demand allowed the Lunar Mistress to curry favor with many powerful figures in Naraka!

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, the Celestial Sourcecore was pure and stable. In stark contrast, the shattered Celestial Sourcecore of Naraka was violent, tainted, and bore the stench of death... It was likely that any celestial demon raised here would possess a corporeal form far from <em>clean</em>.

    Given this, those tender foxes were even rarermodities, making Moon Fairy a treasure of unparalleled rarity!

    The Lunar Mistress was confident enough to offer him to the Great Mother ruling the demon territory of Naraka, a testament to Moon Fairy''s astounding allure.

    He remained in the pnquin until the end, always nked by the green and blue fox women, constantly ready to touch up his makeup.

    Moon Fairy could hardly stand it anymore!

    Fortunately, the Colorful Mist Pool had some effect, secretly fortifying his body, allowing him to speed through the Spirit Projection, Essence Manifestation, and Divine Self Realm."The Celestial Sourcecore of the Celestial Court, being pure and stable, ironically, resists transformation into Deste Essence."

    The situation in Naraka was quite the opposite.

    Because of this, Naraka had be the dominion of demons and devils who required destion to forge their physical forms!

    Although Moon Fairy had not left the pnquin, he could sense and hear enough to understand that the Celestial Demon Abyss operated like a primitive society¡ªbrutal, with the strong preying on the weak.

    And they harbored a strong desire to encroach upon the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Such greed was etched into the lineage of these groups of demons and devils across generations!

    Compared to the Great Dao Celestial Realm, Naraka was truly and of harshness.

    And the delicate humans were undoubtedly the finest of delicacies.

    The Celestial Demon Conference was a gathering for those in the Golden Immortal Realm or above, with the primary goal of unifying their strategy for the uing war.

    "Though the demons consume flesh and drink blood, they harbor aspirations of civility, like beasts donning human guises wishing to mimic human decorum."

    How simr was this to the demons of the Demon Continent?

    Memories of the Eternal Joy Demon Emperor, Lady Hua Lian, and Eclipse Demon Emperor... flooded Moon Fairy''s mind.

    He lightly brushed the heart-shaped earring dangling from his ear.

    "I wonder where you might survive."

    This regret, deep-seated and lingering, resurfaced as he listened to the uproar of the celestial demons outside.

    "The demons of the Demon Continent y petty tricks. But these celestial demons dream of using the Great Dao Celestial Realm to cleanse their demon taint and masquerade as beings of etiquette." Moon Fairy understood this sentiment all too well.

    Demons insisting they were human¡ªit was a farce. If they weren''t trying to fool themselves, Naraka would rightfully be called the Demon Devil Realm.

    From the window of the pnquin, Moon Fairy asionally nced at the grand assembly of celestial demons. Ptial structures tiered one above the other in splendor, enveloped in celestial mists and surrounded by fragrant verdure...

    At first nce, one might mistake this for the Celestial Court!

    But a longer look revealed the truth. The <em>celestials</em> were but swine, the <em>mists</em> were a miasma of decay, and the <emughter</em> was the low growl of beasts.

    Atst, the long wait was over.

    In a hushed tone, the green fox whispered by his side, "The Great Mother did not attend today. We are to take you to the Divine Destion Sea."

    "The Divine Destion Sea? Is that a ce filled with destion?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "Yes... it''s one of the two fragmented cores of Naraka''s Celestial Sourcecore, constantly transforming celestial energy into destion..." the green fox spoke earnestly. "But don''t get carried away. It''s the Great Mother''s private bath, and no demon dares covet even a drop, for the consequences extend beyond mere death."

    The blue fox added with a hint of reverence, "It''s said that the creatures devoured by the Great Mother don''t die; they are eternally imprisoned within her body, enduring evesting torment as long as she exists."

    "Stop, you''re frightening our dear Moon Fairy," the green fox scolded her, then quickly reassured him, "Don''t mind her nonsense. You''re a rare treasure, and the Great Mother will surely favor you."

    No sooner had she finished speaking than the Lunar Mistress and Wuqing entered.

    It was their first time seeing Moon Fairy so adorned, and their eyes betrayed their surprise and delight.

    "What do you think, mother?" Wuqing asked.

    "Marvelous," the Lunar Mistress replied.

    How could he not be, with a body forged by the Will of Divine Destion?

    "Let''s set off."

    The Lunar Mistress was clearly very pleased with Moon Fairy.

    She immediately activated the pnquin, soaring above the clouds of the Celestial Demon Abyss, heading toward its central locus.

    Along the way, the Lunar Mistress repeatedly cautioned him.

    Only when she was certain that Moon Fairy would not seek his own demise did she finally say with gravity, "I have led you to the path; whether you soar to great heights or be but a handful of dust is now up to you."

    "I understand," Moon Fairy nodded.

    "Go out and breathe the air; behold the majestdscapes of the Celestial Demon Abyss."

    Saying this, the Lunar Mistress and Wuqing walked ahead.

    Unbeknownst to them, Yun Xiao, whom they had encountered at the Divine Heavenly Pavilion while attending to Lu Fan, was now standing right beside them in the form of Moon Fairy.

    Moon Fairy followed them, standing in the wind outside the pnquin.

    Looking ahead, the world was a vista of steep mountains and rolling clouds, feeling vast and boundless¡ªtruly magnificent!

    The grander the world, the more fierce its inhabitants.

    Looking out beyond the clouds, giant beasts roamed, ughtering all around, their cries and howls ceaseless, the air forever tainted with the stench of blood and decay.

    "The celestial demons here despise this environment but won¡¯t admit that it¡¯s their nature that shaped it, not the structure of the world," Wuqing said disdainfully.

    "Quiet," the Lunar Mistress warned. "This is the Great Mother''s world; you never know where her ears might be."

    Wuqing bowed her head.

    Meanwhile, Moon Fairy remained silent, while the green fox and blue fox asionally touched up his makeup.

    Atst, Moon Fairy could distinctly feel an immense presence of destion ahead.

    This destion, transformed directly from the shattered Celestial Sourcecore, possessed a natural destructive force.

    Looking ahead, the distant horizon was twisted, the clouds above colored. From afar, it appeared beautiful, but up close, it was clear this was a cauldron of destruction formed by destion!

    Therey the Divine Destion Sea, the eruption point of the Celestial Demon Abyss'' half of Naraka''s shattered Celestial Sourcecore!

    From a distance, Moon Fairy did not directly see the Divine Destion Sea.

    Instead, he saw a mountain!

    The mountain stood abruptly at the horizon''s edge, towering and unscble, encircled by raging storms of wind and fire, its roar deafening.

    "The mountain is truly high," Moon Fairy murmured in awe.

    Wuqing stifled augh and nced at him, saying, "That is not a mountain, that''s the Great Mother."

    Moon Fairy was stunned.

    "Don''t be so shocked," the Lunar Mistress said, bowing deeply with immense reverence and seriousness as they approached. "The Great Mother''s sacred body surpasses all limits, she is the supreme demon of this world."

    As the Lunar Mistress bowed, she respectfully called out towards the horizon, "Lunar Demon Cavern''s Bai Xue, at your service¡­ Great Mother."

    As her words fell, the towering mountain at the horizon trembled and visibly began to shrink rapidly.

    The whole Celestial Demon Abyss shook, the ground trembled, and the mountains quaked.

    Countless celestial demons and lesser demons tucked their necks and hid, daring not to breathe aloud.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    All knew that if the Great Mother appeared as a mountain, it meant she was in a slumbering state, not maintaining her form; but once the mountain vanished, the Great Mother was awake!

    Amid a world-shaking rumble, as the mountain shrank, the pervasive stench of decay in the Celestial Demon Abyss seemed to dissipate, the world bing clearer and a sweet fragrance filled the air.

    The oppressive atmosphere of the Celestial Demon Abyss lessened, but the pressure on Moon Fairy and hispanions soared.

    With booming echoes, the mountain swiftly condensed into a sphere of ck light, and in a blink, it appeared right in front of the pnquin!

    Then, amidst a surge of light, a cascade of ck hair unfolded!

    When the light finally faded, a woman, eight feet tall, appeared before Moon Fairy, towering such that he barely reached her abdomen¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 665: Taking Over the Thunder Department!

    Chapter 665: Taking Over the Thunder Department!

    Moon Fairy could not help but lift his gaze to behold the Great Mother. There she stood, her hair like a waterfall cascading six feet down, skin pale as snow, her visage strikingly beautiful yet marred by a hollow, tentative gaze.

    She was garbed in a floral dress that fluttered in the breeze, her fingers unusually long. Though tall, she was not imposing but delicately formed, just right...

    To Moon Fairy, she appeared as a gentle older sister burdened with worries, her presence seemingly distant. Not even a hint of the stench of decay could be detected.

    "To conceal such a stench as a corpse demon, that''s no small feat," Moon Fairy mused silently.

    So far, he had encountered three corpse demons.

    The first was Forbidden Fate, the most primitive, utterlycking disguise and never having morphed into human form, the lowest potential out of all of them.

    Then, there was Pale Revenant, once human, transformed by resentment into something monstrous.

    But in terms of hierarchy, Pale Revenant paled inparison to this Great Mother, a supreme corpse demon risen to her zenith by devouring relentlessly.

    Her stench wasn¡¯t absent; it had grown so potent that it permeated the entire Celestial Demon Abyss."Corpse demons are theoretically limitless. But what restrains them is the stench of the dead. The stenches of different corpses mixed, corroding the being itself.

    "So, there''s a limit to their consumption. The more they consume, the more bloated they be, until a critical point of decay is reached, beyond which further consumption leads to self-destruction."

    Why was Pale Revenant so grateful to Yun Xiao? It was because the Prison Warden Sigil had purified her, integrating her monstrous form and elevating her potential over and again.

    The Great Mother had reached her limit and had to be continuously purified in the Divine Destion Sea.

    But as long as Pale Revenant stayed with Yun Xiao, she would face no such boundary.

    Yet, despite this¡­ Moon Fairy could sense the terrifying power of the Great Mother at this moment. Should she descend upon the Celestial Court, a disaster was certain.

    "Bai Xue¡­" This towering eight-foot Great Mother, with her vacant, bewildered gaze, fixed her eyes on the Lunar Mistress.

    "Where is Lu Fan?" she asked. Her voice was hollow, raspy, devoid of any charm.

    "He hasn''t arrived," the Lunar Mistress hastily replied. "But he told me to pass on a message that he needed three more days. Once he deals with the Great Dao Celestial Array, our actions will be much easier.''"

    "Three days..." Expressionless, the Great Mother decreed, "That''s the limit. If he hasn''t resolved it by then, we wait no longer."

    "Yes." The Lunar Mistress nodded.

    "If he''s no help, he''ll die," the Great Mother dered.

    "I will ry the message!" the Lunar Mistress said, her face paling slightly.

    "Leave," the Great Mothermanded.

    "Great Mother." The Lunar Mistress forced a smile. "The Chaos Sovereign felt remorseful about this unexpected hup and told me to prepare a small gift. Please ept it with ourpliments."

    With that, the blue and green foxes hurriedly pushed Moon Fairy forward.

    It was only then that the Great Mother''s vacant gaze fell upon Moon Fairy.

    "He is..." As the Lunar Mistress started to introduce him, the Great Mother cut her off, saying, "A man."

    "Yes!" The Lunar Mistress nodded.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "He stays," the Great Mothermanded.

    The Lunar Mistress hadn''t expected the process to be so straightforward and abrupt. Sheughed nervously and said, "Then I will take my leave."

    The Great Mother said nothing, and with her own nerves taut, she promptly directed her pnquin away, never looking back once.

    In the floating silence, there remained only Moon Fairy, neatly presented, and the towering eight-foot-tall giantess.

    The wind lifted her jet-ck hair, which brushed against Moon Fairy.

    Her hollow gaze swept over him.

    In a blink, she was in front of him, mere inches away, her face hovering above his forehead, her red lips aligned with the top of his head.

    "Uh..." Even though he was a dispensable body double, Moon Fairy felt a tinge of nervousness under the oppressive aura.

    The Great Mother was too eerie; she brought not allure but horror.

    "Your scent..." the Great Mother sniffed at his neck, her mouth parting to reveal sharp teeth.

    "It''s off," she added.

    Suddenly, two more eyes appeared on Moon Fairy''s face!

    These four eyes instantly ruined any semnce of beauty he had been packaged with.

    "I am not a demon; I am a beast from the Immortal Asylum," Moon Fairy calmly stated, looking directly at her. "I despise the Immortals, and I know a way to help you seize the Immortal Asylum."

    "Oh..." The Great Mother extended her four-inch-long, jade-like fingers, grabbing Moon Fairy''s arms and lifting him as one would a child, examining him closely.

    Suddenly, her nails elongated by an inch, piercing into the flesh of Moon Fairy.

    Then, like a torrent, ashen blood poured from her into Moon Fairy, flooding through his veins.

    "What is this?" Moon Fairy frowned, feeling a rot within him.

    "Myriad Corpse Blood," the Great Mother replied, releasing her grip and offering him a stiff smile. It was not a pleasant smile, more like a forced twitch at the corners of her mouth.

    "What''s it for?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "To ensure your obedience," she replied.

    "Alright," he nodded.

    "Such a pretty boy," the Great Mother said, suddenly pulling him into her embrace, then touching his forehead, asking, "Did it hurt?"

    Her attempt at tenderness felt forced, like a mother trying too hard, yet entirely rigid.

    From her vacant stare, Moon Fairy felt only a chilling dread.

    "Want milk? I might not have any," she asked.

    Startled, Moon Fairy quickly responded, "Destion! I want destion!"

    The Great Mother paused. She patted Moon Fairy''s head, then let go, pulling him towards the direction of the Divine Destion Sea, saying, "Eat up."

    "Is that it?" Moon Fairy was perplexed.

    He had heard that the Great Mother was perverse, and he himself could not stomach the idea of being the ything of a corpse demon. So, he had braced for a battle to defend his virtue!

    But instead, she was treating him like a son?

    "However, this Myriad Corpse Blood¡­"

    The ashen blood, now filling half his veins, spelled trouble.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, at the Thunder Department, the Azure Rain Sword Vesselnded.

    Yun Xiao, Yue Yin, and Gu Suwan disembarked.

    As Gu Suwan stepped off, her legs gave way, almost causing her to fall.

    "Foster mother, what''s wrong?" Yun Xiao asked, turning back.

    "Nothing," she quickly shook her head, squeezing out a faint smile. She was simply a bit dazed.

    "It''s nothing serious, don''t worry too much," Yun Xiao said with a smile that was as radiant as the sun, giving off an utterly harmless aura.

    "Yes, I understand," Gu Suwan replied, forcing a smile.

    Yue Yin seemed more natural about it. She turned to Yun Xiao and said, "I stole the Sword Hearts, and it is bound to be discovered eventually."

    "We''ll deal with that when ites out," Yun Xiao responded evenly.

    Hisposure was reassuring to Yue Yin. So, she let it be, her faith in Yun Xiao cemented after surviving a battle in the uncharted regions.

    "What''s your next n?" Yue Yin asked.

    "I''ll hold down the Thunder Department and focus on my cultivation," Yun Xiao replied.

    That was his mantra; the Thunder Department was the safest ce!

    At that moment, Pale Revenant approached the group. Dressed up by Cao Shuo, she looked rather like an angelic maid.

    "Just now, a group from the Great Dao Celestial Army came by. They''re at the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau right now, and nobody has greeted them," Pale Revenant reported.

    "The Great Dao Celestial Army?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    "The Chaos Sovereign''s men," Gu Suwan said.

    Now that the Thunder Department was without the Nine Thunders Sovereign, it had be Yun Xiao''s personal domain.

    "First he sends demons after me, now his own people too?"

    It seemed as though the Thunder Department was regarded as utterly defenseless.

    "Let''s meet them," Yun Xiao told Gu Suwan and Yue Yin.

    After speaking, they headed towards the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau together.

    "What kind of force are they?" On the way, Yun Xiao asked Pale Revenant.

    "I heard there are two Rank 2 Supreme Generals, ten Rank 3 Celestial Generals, 100 Great Horned Immortals, and 1,000 officials... They im that the Thunder Department has suffered heavy losses and that demons have infiltrated, putting the department in jeopardy. In the name of camaraderie, they say they''vee to protect the Arbiters and Immortal Champion," Pale Revenant dutifully reported.

    Yun Xiao stopped in his tracks and scoffed, "Arge force like that isn''t here to protect me; they''re here to take over the Thunder Department!"

 Chapter 666: Dont Fear the Storm!

    Chapter 666: Don''t Fear the Storm!

    There were originally 10,000 Rank 6 or above Heavenly Officers appointed to the Thunder Department.

    In the Celestial Court, the Arbiters were in charge of internal security. Meanwhile the Great Dao Celestial Army handled external threats, making them the true celestial soldiers and generals of the path to immortality!

    So, positions within the Great Dao Celestial Army were naturally more numerous.

    Even so, as two unrted departments, it was illegal for the Great Dao Celestial Army to station over a thousand Rank 6 or above Heavenly Officers in the Thunder Department without a decree from the Celestial Court!

    Yet, in these turbulent times, legality had be a moot point.

    Yun Xiao, along with Yun Yin and Gu Suwan, hadn''t even approached the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau when they heard the moring from beneath the pagoda, the very ground of the Thunder Department shaking continuously.

    Far off into the distance, beyond the pce walls, one could see many figures d in scales, with sharp horns atop their heads¡ªthe Great Horned Immortals. They were colliding and shouting beneath the pagoda of the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, their voices rough, unconcerned with their surroundings.

    The Great Horned Immortals, a hybrid of human and devil, bore the bloodline of devils, their ancestors hailing from Naraka. Due to their tough skin, clever minds, and reverence for strength, they managed quite well in the Celestial Court.

    Particrly in the Great Dao Celestial Army, there were many regiments of Great Horned Immortals, known for their fierce and fearless nature, often used as the vanguard, striking wherever pointed.Beyond Naraka, at the far ends of space, were many Celestial Sourcecores, birthing demons, devils, immortals, and spirits... The Great Dao Celestial Realm, possessing the finest territories of this vast expanse, was envied by many, and not without enemies!

    The Great Horned Immortals had many advantages but equally as many ws.

    For instance, their brutal nature, disrespectful attitudes, and bloody methods were aspects that disgusted the Immortals.

    At this moment, the disturbance at the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau was all their doing!

    "Silence!"

    In the solemn ground of the Thunder Department, such disturbance by outsiders was naturally intolerable to Gu Suwan, a Rank 3 Lightning Duchess.

    With a cold shout, the three of them stepped into the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau.

    Among them, Yun Xiao, though the lowest in official rank, walked in the center, naturally drawing the attention of the thousand-strong force of the Great Dao Celestial Army.

    Of course, those who made it here were not mere soldiers, butmanders and generals.

    "What''s happening?" Gu Suwan''s gaze swept toward the entrance of the pagoda.

    A dozen or so Rank 7 Heavenly Officers guarded the entrance, struggling to maintain order, several of them covered in blood.

    "Lightning Duchess Gu, Thunder Emissary Lu!" An elderly Heavenly Officer, looking distressed, said, "The Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau houses the sacred celestial techniques of the Thunder Department, forbidden to non-Arbiters. These Great Horned Immortals simply won''t listen..."

    "Just a look, that''s all! What sacred celestial techniques of the Thunder Department? Tooting your own horn. Do you think they''re better than our own?"

    "Haha!"

    "I don''t even care for it!"

    These Great Horned Immortals didn''t care who approached; they stood with iron-hard, bronze horns, their eyes a dark red, speaking rudely to Yun Xiao.

    "Shut up."

    Just then, amanding, deep voice came from behind.

    The generals andmanders of the Great Dao Celestial Army converged from afar, each donned in ck, thick battle armor. Not as aesthetically pleasing as the Saun Ni Arbiter armor, their celestial armor was surely stronger in defense.

    The 1,000 generals andmanders d in ck armor brought with them an oppressive air.

    As they advanced, they parted ways, and amidst them, a dozen top-tier generals emerged. Ten were like Gu Suwan and Cao Sheng, Rank 3 Heavenly Officers. But the two at the center, a man and a woman,manded all focus.

    These were two Rank 2 Supreme Generals.

    The man, burly and imposing with a helmet, had fiery red hair like a standing me lion. His presence alone seemed to raise the temperature around him.

    The woman, in blue armor, tall and graceful with a stern face and formidable gaze, was clearly not one to be trifled with.

    In terms of presence and intimidation, these two Supreme Generals from the Great Dao Celestial Army were clearly stronger than Yun Yin and Gu Zhenxiao, obviously seasoned from prolonged battles.

    The real authorities had arrived!

    Gu Suwan eased her anger and greeted the two, "We greet the me Virtue General and Aqua Admiral."

    As for Yue Yin, being equal in rank to them, she naturally had no interest in pleasantries.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao, though lower in rank, chose to remain silent, curious to see what they would say.

    "So this is the new Immortal Champion of the Celestial Court, Lu Yao?"

    The me Virtue General''s stern face broke into a hearty smile upon seeing Yun Xiao.

    "Yes," Gu Suwan answered, then she introduced them to Yun Xiao, "These two Supreme Generals are Zhu Shenlu and Yu Shiling."

    "Understood," Yun Xiao nodded.

    His casual demeanor immediately enraged the Great Horned Immortals.

    "Brat, acting so high and mighty as a mere Rank 4 Heavenly Officer?"

    "Shitty kid, kneel and pay respects to the two Supreme Generals now, or I''ll dismantle this entire Thunder Department!"

    Pointing at Yun Xiao, the Great Horned Immortals roared and cursed.

    "Silence! Show no disrespect to the Immortal Champion!" Zhu Shenlu thundered, then quickly turned to Yun Xiao with an embarrassed smile. "Forgive us. These brutes just returned from the mortal realm, reeling from the incense offerings they consumed. They''re still a bit delirious. Please, don¡¯t stoop to their level."

    Yun Xiao pressed his lips together, not a flicker of emotion crossing his face, and spoke calmly, "I only wish to ask you Supreme Generals one thing. What brings you here uninvited?"

    Zhu Shenlu''s smile vanished, and he replied earnestly, "With Divine Dawn destroying the Ascension Pool, there''s been a breach to the gates of the Celestial Court, allowing a flood of demons and devils to infiltrate and wreak havoc.

    "Our primary mission in the Great Dao Celestial Army is to exterminate these agents of chaos and protect the peace of the Heavenly Pce. We heard that a demon from Naraka was spotted in the Thunder Department, and attempted to assassinate the Immortal Champion. With the Thunder Department severely weakened and short-staffed, the Chaos Sovereignmanded us to assist and safeguard our Arbiter brethren."

    Yun Xiao chuckled at this exnation and said, "The first time the Chaos Sovereign saw me, he wanted me dead. Now, he''s suddenly sending protectors. Do you believe that?"

    Zhu Shenlu sighed deeply, "You may not know, but since that day, the Chaos Sovereign has been full of regret. He recognizes his mistake and is determined to mend his ways. He hopes you will give a foolish father a chance to correct his wrongs."

    "That sounds nice," Yun Xiao paused, eyeing the two Supreme Generals, and slowly added, "So when do you n to ally with the forces of Naraka toe after me?"

    This left the assembled generals andmanders momentarily stunned.

    The me Virtue General quickly shook his head with augh, "You misunderstand us deeply!"

    Yun Xiao also smiled and added, "It will be dark soon, the perfect time for you. I¡¯ll be waiting at the Cao Immortal Manor."

    With that, he turned and walked out of the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau.

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan said nothing and simply followed him out.

    The lower ranked generals were left behind, exchanging puzzled looks.

    "He''s so direct because he''s confident, not afraid at all," Yu Shiling remarked, her voice chillingly calm.

    "It might just be bluster to frighten us," Zhu Shenlu suggested.

    "So?" Yu Shiling looked at him.

    "We''re already here; leaving is out of the question. Let''s do as he wishes... and send for more reinforcements," Zhu Shenlu decided.

    "We can''t spare any more from our side; let Feng Sha and his group handle it," Yu Shiling proposed.

    Zhu Shenlu nced at the darkening sky and growled, "The cloak of darkness will indeed soon descend."

    "Then let''s make haste."

    The two exchanged a look, then Zhu Shenlu instructed the Great Horned Immortals, "Before night falls, cause chaos in the streets of the Thunder Department. Distract them. No one here can handle you; do as you please."

    "Yes, Supreme General!" The Great Horned Immortals, already restless, were eager to cause trouble.

    Yu Shiling thenmanded the generals behind her, "You are to search and seize all the Thunder Department¡¯s cultivation techniques."

    "Aren''t we afraid of the Nine Thunders Sovereign?" one Celestial General asked.

    "He''s just one man. If he shows up, others will handle him," Yu Shiling sneered.

    "Are we openly attacking the Thunder Department then?" the Celestial General asked incredulously.

    "You only realize that now?" Zhu Shenlu red at him. "The Thunder Department is the eye of the Celestial Court. To throw the realm into chaos, first blind its eye."

    "They¡¯ve already blinded themselves; we''re just here to <em>protect</em> them under that pretense, to clean out the socket," Yu Shiling added.

    At this, the blood of the other Celestial Generals boiled with excitement!

    Had they not been waiting for this day all their lives?

    Was there any nobility in being lords and princes without power?

    It was their turn to shatter the hierarchy and truly take over the Heavenly Pce!

    Who would choose to live on the frontier in the Great Dao Celestial Army if not for their low birth and status?

    There was an old saying in the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Superiors became Arbiters, inferiors became celestial soldiers!"

    Of course, the Arbiters they referred to weren''t mere errand runners like Arbiter Lu, but high-ranking officials of the Thunder Department!

    And every Celestial General present, originally just a celestial soldier, now felt the fires of ambition burning fiercely within...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 667: The Thunder Departments Darkest Night!

    Chapter 667: The Thunder Department''s Darkest Night!

    On the fringes of the Thunder Department, deep within the mountains¡­

    Because of the recent disaster and ensuing shortage of manpower, this region was left unguarded, allowing all sorts of shadows and ghastly beings to infiltrate the Thunder Department, hiding out in the wilderness.

    Suddenly, two figures d in splendid armor appeared in the ravine. They were none other than the me Virtue General and Aqua Admiral, Zhu Shenlu and Yu Shiling.

    "Wind Fiend, Greenchild," Yu Shiling called softly into the breeze. Her voice carried on the wind, and soon the canyon''s air swirled into a frenzy, twisting into a tornado that howled with the cries of countless aggrieved spirits.

    What seemed merely a gust bore the weight of a sinful world, a vortex of vindictive spirits that draped the sprawling mountains in a veil of mortal sorrow.

    Out of this relentless whirlwind materialized a woman in red, her long hair trailing on the ground, her skin ghostly pale, her eyes seemingly blinded by tears. She appeared so frail as if a mere breath of air might scatter her into oblivion.

    Zhu Shenlu and Yu Shiling, witnessing the pain that clung to her form, hesitated to draw near.

    Before a word could pass between them, the earth of the deep mountain valley trembled, splitting open into an abyss from which a colossal green leech writhed.

    Though obscured by a thick mist, its body was covered in suckers, each tipped with barbs that threatened totch onto flesh and never let go.Amidst swirling smoke, the leech transformed into a young man in green, debonair with a folding fan in his hand.

    "Have reinforcements arrived?" Zhu Shenlu asked the two transformed demons.

    "It was a bit on short notice, but I managed 1,000 troops. Now we''re about 3,000 strong," Greenchild replied.

    "Three thousand?" Zhu Shenlu pursed his lips.

    "You think that''s not enough? It''s already more than your Chaos Sovereign nned," Greenchild responded coolly.

    "He aims to settle things in one fell swoop," Yu Shiling added.

    "Then let''s wait a bit longer. <em>Xiu</em> seems to have arrived, bringing several top devils with him," Greenchild mentioned.

    "Him?" At this, Zhu Shenlu nodded with satisfaction. "If so, once you all convene, give the signal, and we''ll strike immediately. No more waiting," hemanded.

    "Agreed." Greenchild nodded.

    "And Wind Fiend, what are your thoughts?" Yu Shiling turned to the red-robed woman.

    Lifting her head, her vacant eyes met theirs, and she whispered tremulously, "I can''t wait any longer..."

    "The Chaos Sovereign has agreed. You may unleash your sorrowful winds across the Thunder Department. All the celestial demons of Naraka are watching you! Revel in this feast of carnage!" Zhu Shenlu said with a satisfied smile on his face.

    Afterwards, he and Yu Shiling disappeared into the wind.

    Left behind, the two demons stood in the mountain depths, their gazes fixed on the bustling expanse of the Thunder Department ahead.

    "What a marvelous trinket," Greenchild murmured with a ghost of a smile.

    "Life is but a fleeting confusion, mere fodder in the end. After the battle, corpses and blood will stream like rivers..." Wind Fiend''s hollow eyes widened, a glint of greed flickering within them.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above the clouds, a golden pce floated amidst the Celestial Sourcecore, its zed golden tiles gleaming under the heavenly light.

    On the roof stood three figures. At the center was the Crown Prince dressed in golden robes. He was the most handsome and youngest out of all of them. If not for Yun Xiao, he would be heralded as the most divine figure in the Celestial Court.

    Beside him, to the left, a shadowy figure who appeared as sharp as a sword, and to the right, a robust andmanding middle-aged man. They were none other than the Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    The Dragon Tiger Sovereign peered into the distance, where the sky seemed to morph into a dark maw stretching wide to devour the Thunder Department.

    "They''re likely to strike at nightfall," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign observed.

    "Mhm," the Crown Prince replied, sitting on the ridge, his long hair fluttering in the breeze.

    "Your Highness, Lu Fan must know you want them to fight among themselves first," the Northstar Sword Devil whispered.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "How could he have not?" the Crown Prince said with a smile.

    "Yet, he''s stille regardless, and he''s thrown a lot of resources into this operation," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign added.

    "It shows he''s even more eager than us for Yun Xiao''s demise. Besides, I''ve given him the chance to wreak havoc on the Thunder Department," the Crown Prince said with a coldugh.

    "Whether Yun Xiao survives or not, the Thunder Department will suffer tonight. Is it worth it?" the Northstar Sword Devil asked softly.

    "One cannot catch a wolf without risking the flock," the Crown Prince mused.

    "And the Nine Thunders Sovereign..."

    Before he could finish, the Crown Prince looked at him and smiled, "Didn''t we reassign him far away? Remember, you are my true confidants. As for the Nine Thunders Sovereign, he''s the one who chose to marry off his daughter to my sixth brother."

    "Understood!" Both the Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign nodded in agreement, dark currents surging in their eyes.

    "Let''s enjoy the show!" The Crown Prince shifted to a morefortable position, hisugh sharp and dismissive.

    "The Thunder Department is already a ruin; using it as a battlefield couldn''t be more fitting. The Arbiters, with all their old-fashioned dogma, will have no ce in the Celestial Court once I''m in charge."

    The Northstar Sword Devil and the Dragon Tiger Sovereign exchanged a look, their expressions deepening with unspoken understanding.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office...

    As the dark canopy swallowed the Thunder Department, shadows crept over the entire Cao Immortal Manor, as if the heavens themselves were obscured.

    In the distant streets, chaos reigned¡ªcries of despair mingled with screams of agony signaled the rampage of the Great Horned Immortals. Previously, such unbridled action by these 100 Great Horned Immortals would have been unthinkable. But now, who was there to restrain them?

    The anguished cries came from the low ranking Arbiters, who, like Lu An, had done nothing but uphold thews of the Heavenly Pce. Now, they had been betrayed.

    Meanwhile, the Great Dao Celestial Army''s generals conducted raids in the residences of the Thunder Department''s high officials. Acts not even Yun Xiao could have carried out were executed with precision, stripping the upper echelons of the Thunder Department almost bare.

    Countless messages were sent for help, but it seemed the Celestial Court had forgotten the Thunder Department; no one came to their aid.

    Now, with night falling, the Thunder Department''s Arbiters who had suffered greatly received a small respite. The Great Dao Celestial Army and Great Horned Immortals had finally withdrawn.

    The low ranking Arbiters headed straight for the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    Panic and fear gripped the numerous Arbiters, as they all knew who resided there¡ªtheirst hope for the Thunder Department''s future.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Thunder Immortal Formation above, weakened from its previous tempestuous unleashing, no longer glimmered. The entire Thunder Department was shrouded in an unprecedented gloom.

    And then, a chilling sensation spread.

    Demonic miasma began to breed in the northern mountains, creeping southwards, slowly blotting out the sky, promising an eclipse of doom.

    "Demons!"

    "It''sing from the north!"

    The brazen, rampant demonic miasma, filled with the sneers and roars of countless demons, was unbelievable to the Arbiters of the Thunder Department.

    "We''re the Thunder Department of the Celestial Court! How can we allow demons to rampage here!?"

    "It''s a disgrace for the ages!"

    The cloud of miasma, which blotted out the Celestial Sourcecore and obscured half the sky, nearly covered the Thunder Immortal Formation. This was the darkest night the Thunder Department had ever seen.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The endless demon fog formed a storm, pressing towards the center of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    "That''s the Cao Immortal Manor"

    Countless Arbiters stepped out from their homes, eyes bloodshot as they gazed at the site where the towering demon fog descended.

    "Lu Yao..."

    Why? Why was the enemy so brazen, and did no one higher up really care? Where was the Nine Thunders Sovereign? What was the Heavenly Pce doing? What was the White Emperor doing?

    A wave of endless sorrow began to surge through the hearts of every Arbiter!

    They were the representatives of the power and authority, the upholders ofw and order in the Celestial Court. If even here demons could tread, where was the dignity of the Great Dao Celestial Realm?

    Everyone was angry, everyone felt powerless!

    In the end, they could only silently weep, praying for Yun Xiao.

    Meanwhile, the brewing storm was growing fiercer!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Within the courtyard of the Cao Immortal Manor, Yue Yin stood at the doorway, watching the roiling dark clouds overhead, her brows slightly furrowed.

    In a pavilion, Yun Xiao sat cross-legged on the ground, meditating with his eyes closed, like bamboo, unmoved by the chaos outside or the demonic invading, his spirit clear and still.

    And on the steps below him, a little girly on her stomach, resting her chin in her hands, staring longingly at the young man she so greatly admired...

 Chapter 668: Annihilate and Obliterate!

    Chapter 668: Annihte and Obliterate!

    Outside the courtyard, the demons blotted out the sky.

    Inside the pavilion, everything was calm and serene.

    "Phew..." Yun Xiao, donned in his Arbiter armor, exhaled a murky breath softly.

    "Mid Golden Immortal Realm."

    He''d broken through another stage!

    After learning the Buddha''s Treasure Art, his spirit, celestial power, and vitality merged, broadening his path of immortality.

    Within his Dantian, seated atop his sacred wheel, Yun Xiao''s spirit oversaw a vast expanse of celestial power, rivaling that of those in the Anima Tribtion Realm.

    Having reached the middle of the Golden Immortal stage, Yun Xiao was already among the powerhouses in the Celestial Court. He was no longer a mere Arbiter prodigy.

    "He''s broken through again?" Gu Suwan, seated nearby, her eyes deep and shadowed, looked at this prodigy. Biting her lip, she said, "Why is cultivation as simple as drinking water for you, while I, striving to summon a single tribtion, have toiled 30 years for a single breakthrough?"Originally almost an entire realm below her, Cao Shuo had joyously broken through three or four stages in one go, utterly upending Gu Suwan''smon sense.

    As her sister-inw, Gu Suwan hadpeted with Cao Shuo for half a lifetime.

    Now, only a few days after Yun Xiao''s arrival, Cao Shuo was already leagues ahead of her, leaving her utterly disgraced.

    "What cultivation method do you cultivate?" Yun Xiao nced over at his foster mother.

    "The Lightning Duchess True Enlightenment, a Dao Heaven grade cultivation method," Gu Suwan responded, a bit startled.

    "Let me see it," Yun Xiao reached out his hand.

    "This¡­" Gu Suwan hesitated, intending to say that this was a secret text of the Thunder Department, and that only Rank 3 Lightning Duchesses were allowed to cultivate it

    But then she thought, what was the point now? The Thunder Department was nearly obliterated!

    She reached into her Bag of Holding and pulled out a jade slip wrapped in a blue lightning serpent, cing it in Yun Xiao''s hand.

    Yun Xiao pinched it for a moment, his spirit entering the jade slip.

    In a mere breath, he opened his eyes and naturally reached out, tapping Gu Suwan''s chest.

    "How..." Gu Suwan recoiled, her body trembling slightly as she looked down nervously.

    "You''ve practiced it wrong," Yun Xiao exined. "Change the third section,press the three lightning spirals into two."

    Stunned, Gu Suwan stared at Yun Xiao and asked, "Why?"

    Yun Xiao said, "This Lightning Duchess True Enlightenment, grand and sweeping in its intent, suits those of robust physique. But you¡­ in spite of your delicate stature, forcefully cultivated it without any alterations and hit a roadblock. I''ve adjusted it a bit for you; try practicing it again."

    Gu Suwan was stunned on the spot. His words had resolved the puzzle that had confounded her for 30 years.

    What was most astonishing was that he had amended the Lightning Duchess True Enlightenment after only a brief moment''s study?

    "Yes!" Gu Suwan eagerly took the jade slip, observing with her spirit while she sat down to circte the lightning spirals through her body.

    Yue Yin watched silently from the doorway, then parted her lips to say, "Even if you corrected her cultivation method, with those demons looming overhead, an Establishment stage Golden Immortal like her won¡¯t be much help¡­"

    Just as Yue Yin finished her remark, lightning shed in the sky.

    An earth-toned thunderbolt was coalescing, aiming precisely at Gu Suwan!

    "Uh..." Yue Yin''s pretty face froze, at a loss for words.

    The dilemma that had gued someone for 30 years was solved in a breath and was immediately effective!

    What in the world was Yun Xiao?

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Earth Pulse Thunder crashed down, startling many.

    Yet, Gu Suwan had prepared in this courtyard for this exact moment for the past 30 years. She passed the tribtion with ease.

    It was chaotic and restless outside. Inside, it remained eerily calm.

    Atst, with a rumble, electrical arcs surged from Gu Suwan, scattering around.

    Yun Xiao reached out and caught an arc, fashioning it into a small blue flower, which he handed to Pale Revenant beside him, smiling, "For you."

    "Thank you," Pale Revenant said, her eyes sparkling as she treasured the tiny lightning flower.

    As Gu Suwan''s body trembled for thest time, the lightning ceased.

    She suddenly opened her eyes, found Yun Xiao, and knelt down, tears of gratitude falling, "Thank you for your guidance, senior."

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh and cry, "Foster mother, you must be joking, I''m only 16 years old; I''m not ready to be your senior."

    As Yue Yin and Gu Suwan heard this, they were left disheveled by the wind...

    Indeed, the wind was picking up!

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan''s long hair billowed in the gusts.

    The courtyard was no longer tranquil.

    Rockeries crumbled, ancient trees caught fire, and the earth cracked open.

    Pces, towers, and long corridors seemed to freeze in the chilly wind before disintegrating into dust, scattering in the breeze...

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In an instant, everything around Yun Xiao vanished, except for the ground and the three women.

    The Cao Immortal Manor had disappeared!

    In its ce, a dark red wind whirled, and behind the gusts, countless crimson eyes glinted.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    A tremendous demonic aura surged!

    Every direction¡ªfront, back, left, right, above, and even below¡ªwas filled with demons!

    They lurked in the dark, chilly wind, their mouths agape, crimson tongues extended, with eerie stares fixed on the young man in Arbiter armor.

    At that moment, he was like a white lotus blooming amidst a swamp of poison mist.

    Demons, numbering 3,000 strong, surrounded him and sealed off every escape route.

    In the distance, countless Arbiters could only watch with heavy hearts as the demons ravaged the heart of the Thunder Department, their emotions a mixture of tears, sorrow, worry, and humiliation.

    The wind howled, growing fiercer and more mournful.

    The cries of agony and the overshadowing grievances swept through every street of the Thunder Department, piercing every heart, plunging the world into sorrow.

    The dark red wind, carrying the pain-filled gazes, converged above the Cao Immortal Manor.

    The cries fell like a torrential rain, eroding the earth and emitting dark red plumes of smoke!

    "Ooooohhh..." The heart-wrenching, omnipresent wail of the wind slowly materialized into a woman in a red robe.

    Gaunt and pale, she seemed ready to dissipate with the wind. Her eyes, dry of tears, were hollow sockets filled with deste despair as she stared at the young man in white.

    "A resentment demon." Yun Xiao observed her calmly.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ground shook violently as the earth of the Thunder Department split open, revealing an abyss. From this chasm, a green leech, covered in suction cups, emerged, opening itsrgest mouth at the forefront, aiming directly at Yun Xiao!

    It was another demon at the Anima Tribtion Realm!

    The green leech, wind demon, and 3,000 surrounding demons watched Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao stood silent. To his left and right, and behind him, Yue Yin, Gu Suwan, and Pale Revenant faced off coldly against the menacing demons.

    In the heavy silence, malicious intent swelled¡ªbut yet, they made no move.

    The entire Thunder Department had fallen into a vicious stillness...

    Suddenly, a thunderp exploded out of nowhere.

    "How dare these demons wreak havoc in the sacrednd of the Thunder Department of the Celestial Court? All troops, heed mymand¡ªexterminate them!"

    The Great Dao Celestial Army''s forces,posed of a hundred Great Horned Immortals and a thousand celestial generals, soared up from the east.

    In an instant, a brilliant golden light matched the demonic forces in strength!

    The thunderous roar of the me Virtue General resonated across the Thunder Department, echoing through the skies.

    Hearing this, the Thunder Department Arbiters, who had been in despair not knowing the truth, wept with relief.

    "It''s the Great Dao Celestial Army!"

    "They''ve stepped forward!"

    "Save the Thunder Department, save Lu Yao! Quickly!"

    The ordinary Arbiters, even those tormented by the Great Horned Immortals during the day, could never have imagined that these representatives of the Celestial Court''s justice would turn out to be enemies...

    Revived, the Arbiters cheered for the Great Dao Celestial Army, praying for Yun Xiao.

    "Charge!!"

    As they had hoped, the dazzling Great Dao Celestial Army advanced toward the Cao Immortal Manor.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Before the two forces even shed directly, the celestial light and the demonic miasma collided, creating a vast barrier that shrouded everything happening inside.

    Unable to see, the people could only pray.

    "Lu Yao must survive..."

    <em>BOOM! </em>The earth trembled, the air roared.

    Chaos reigned!

    The sounds of battle cries from heaven and demonic roars mingled together!

    <em>CRASH! </em>Behind Yun Xiao, the demons parted, forming a pathway.

    The hundred Great Horned Immortals and thousand celestial generals charged through, standing shoulder to shoulder with the demons near Yun Xiao.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Leading them, Zhu Shenlu and Yu Shiling marched side by side, both d in imposing armor, their eyes cold and deadly.

    Their arrival met the gaze of Wind Fiend and Greenchild.

    Zhu Shenlu looked down at Yun Xiao with a scrutinizing gaze.

    "Supreme Generals, good evening," Yun Xiao said, hands behind his back, smiling slightly upward.

    Zhu Shenlu also smiled briefly, then his face contorted into a snarl, and he bellowed, "Kill him!!!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>Two people and two demons, all four peak powerhouses at the level of Rank 2 Heavenly Officers, charged at Yun Xiao simultaneously!

    Behind them, more than 30 Anima Tribtion Realm demons and celestial generals followed.

    The rest, nearly 4,000 generals and demons, most of them of at least the Celestial Expanse Realm, formed a vast. Their objective was simple and brutal¡ªannihte and obliterate!

    After killing Yun Xiao, they nned to destroy everything in the Thunder Department, to shake the foundation of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, and to intimidate all foes under the banner of Naraka.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 669: Heavenly Thunder Descends Once More!

    Chapter 669: Heavenly Thunder Descends Once More!

    The killing intent of the forces of the Great Dao Celestial Army and Naraka shed, overwhelming the surroundings in an instant.

    Truth be told, both Yue Yin and Gu Suwan were thoroughly unnerved! Even if there were 10 of them, they''d still feel intimidated!

    "Yun Xiao!" The two women stared fixedly ahead, their voices trembling as they called out.

    "Let''s whet the appetite first," Yun Xiao dered.

    Then, his gaze pierced through the demonic miasma filling the skies,nding on the Thunder Immortal Formation above.

    "Last time, annihting 10,000 Immortals of the Thunder Department cost you much of your divine might. However, today, using you to wipe out a few foot soldiers should be no problem."

    By using the Thunder Immortal Formation again today, Yun Xiao''s control over it could no longer be concealed. But with his identity already exposed, there was nothing left to hide!

    In this life-or-death moment, lightning storms suddenly red in Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes, illuminating heaven and earth!

    He pointed towards the sky!From his fingertip, an azure serpent burst forth, piercing through the demonic wind in an instant, and entered the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    "Divine thunder is thew, the fate of sinners and demons is ordained!"

    These words remained still until moved, and once moved, they shocked the heavens!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In an instant, a myriad of thunderbolts exploded from Yun Xiao''s body!

    At this moment, the youth was like a thunder god descended to earth, his hair flying wildly, lightning bursting around him, his chest armor gleaming fiercely, his face filled with righteous fury!

    "Annihte them!"

    A thunderous roar shook from Yun Xiao''s mouth, ascending to the heavens, resonating down from the Thunder Immortal Formation, forming a sky filled with thunderous explosions!

    The thunderous youth pointed with his hand!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Above the vast skies, thousands of ck thunder columns violently tore through space, like a thousand ck electric dragons roaring and striking down, targeting the Great Horned Immortals and celestial generals!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Thunder exploded, electric arcs burst forth, and where the ck thunder columns passed, the Great Horned Immortals were torn apart, their limbs scattered. The celestial generals struck by the heavenly thunder were sted into charred corpses, instantly sent to their deaths!

    "Ahhhh!"

    Screams of terrifying despair drowned out the mournful winds, echoing throughout the heart of the Thunder Department!

    Those Great Horned Immortals and celestial generals who had sown chaos during the day endured Yun Xiao''s first wave of wrath. The demons were not yet dead, but the ground where they stood had been plowed into charred pits by a sky full of thunder columns!

    It was evident that the power of the Thunder Immortal Formation this time was not as great as before. Some immortals were not annihted outright; some even left partial remains, whereas previously, they had been obliterated body and soul!

    Even so, this explosive scene made the invaders fully realize the terror of Yun Xiao!

    The Great Dao Celestial Army was unaware that the previous cmity of the Thunder Department had been Yun Xiao¡¯s doing.

    The me Virtue General and Aqua Admiral saw their troops nearly wiped out in one fell swoop. Their faces contorted and split in fury!

    "He indeed has a trump card!"

    A brutally ruthless trump card!

    And then¡ª

    The advancing demons, witnessing the tragedy of the Great Dao Celestial Army, stopped dead in their tracks, horror-stricken, staring at the youth in tinum armor who seemed fused with the heavenly formation above!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The youth¡¯s eyes, surging with thunder, swept over the horde of demons!

    "How dare you desecrate the sacrednd of the Thunder Department with your vile presence?"

    With both hands raised to the heavens as if grasping the thunder of the Celestial Court, his eyes sparked with electric light, his palms flipped, pressing down upon the demons around him!

    "Flee quickly!!"

    The demons howled in agony, their faces ashen!

    But it was toote!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Thunder Immortal Formation quaked to its limit, as if unleashing all its remaining power to purge the evil!

    Where Yun Xiao pressed his hands, ck thunder once again descended, creating explosive arcs of electricity that swept over the surrounding demons!

    Where the electric arcs swept through, corpses and blood flew everywhere, apanied by countless screams.

    <em>ZAP! ZAP! ZAP!</em>

    Where the storm-like electric arcs passed, countless dismembered bodies of demons thudded onto the ground!

    Arms were arms, heads were heads!

    And there were the eyes of those who had died in terror!

    Furious lightning continued to sh within the demon fog, engulfing the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office in endless thunder, as if the whole world was being devoured by thunderbolts!

    "Terrifying¡­"

    Across the Thunder Department, numerous Arbiters opened their mouths wide, their eyes bulging as they watched the central area being bombarded by heavenly thunder!

    The night made the thunder more explosive!

    shes of lightning illuminated a whole region, illuminating the Thunder Department as if it were day!

    Above on the Thunder Immortal Formation, a face, immense and impassive, formed amidst the writhing snakes of electricity!

    This colossal visage, looking down upon thends of the Thunder Department with eyes aze with fury, spewed forth thunderbolts of immense force, obliterating everything within the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office!

    Such a magnificent spectacle was etched into the memory of all the Arbiters of the Thunder Department for a lifetime!

    "That''s Lu Yao!"

    A wave of electrifying cheers spread through the streets of the Thunder Department, almost rivaling the sound of thunder.

    "Lu Yaomands the Thunder Immortal Formation, locked in a battle to the death with the demons!"

    "He is the future supreme Immortal of the Thunder Department!"

    "When the Champion emerges, who darespete!"

    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"

    At this moment, who still remembered the Nine Thunders Sovereign?

    The savior of the Thunder Department, the yer of evil demons, was none other than the young Arbiter Lu Yao from a frontier city!

    Who would think about the previous thunder cmity at such a time?

    Lu Yao¡¯s name, louder than thunder, shook the heavens!

    The entire Thunder Department shone in the storm of thunder belonging to Lu Yao!

    Under the barrage of this storm, the Great Dao Celestial Army''s forces were devastated, and the 3,000 demons were decimated.

    The Cao Immortal Manor, ttened to the ground, now had a crater sted more than ten feet deep, leaving only ckened earth as far as the eye could see!

    And at the very center of that scorched earth, Yun Xiao dispersed his lightning and descended from the sky, stepping onto the ground!

    After the thunderous roars, all suddenly fell silent!

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan, though they had known that Yun Xiao had caused the previous cmity, were still profoundly shaken by watching him obliterate everything once more.

    Who could rival such a youth in brilliance?

    Yet, with such power, was he too fierce, toocking in restraint?

    Looking around at the thick smoke, Yue Yin, though exhrated, voiced her concerns. "Two thunder cmities must have exhausted the power of the Thunder Immortal Formation, right?"

    Hearing this, Gu Suwan also looked up at the sky, only to see the supreme divine authority of the Thunder Department, the embodiment of celestialw and order, the Thunder Immortal Formation, having dimmed and contracted after its recent eruption, devoid of any divine might¡­

    "The Great Dao Celestial Army''s forces, and the 3,000 demons¡­ they''re nearly obliterated. But all their top elites are still alive, including the two Supreme Generals and those two great demons," Gu Suwan said softly, her voice heated with tension.

    She knew these formidable beings were the true challenge of the night.

    After the prior thunder cmity, the Thunder Immortal Formation was unable to deal with them tonight.

    Had it been possible, Yun Xiao would have targeted the strong first.

    In the face of their rising anxieties, Yun Xiao remained as calm as a quiet sea. He reached out, stroking the silken head of Pale Revenant, and said gently, "Eat slowly, there¡¯s no rush."

    "Mhmm," Pale Revenant nodded, transforming into a swirl of blue water that rolled away beneath his feet.

    Then, the air seemed to freeze.

    The wind picked up again, growing colder.

    The heart-wrenching cries crept into their ears like ants.

    Yun Xiao looked up.

    In the wind, a woman in a red robe covered her face, her hollow eyes peeking through her fingers as sheughed ominously.

    Beside her, a handsome man in green tilted his head, slightly frustrated, "My dear, your temper really does cause headaches."

    He shook his head,ughing.

    Behind them, about twenty Anima Tribtion Realm demons, each as capable as Cao Sheng, emerged from the mist, their eyes blood-red as they stared at Yun Xiao.

    "Have you had enough fun?"

    On the other side, a group of disheveled figures climbed from the ruins.

    It was Zhu Shenlu, Yu Shiling, and 10 Rank 3 celestials generals, almost unscathed.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The strong ones were all present!

    Their murderous intent and oppressive aura reassembled, pressing down on Yun Xiao.

    "You''ve had your fun, now it''s our turn," Zhu Shenlu said, his voice hoarse, his face ferocious.

    "Ah, I can''t wait to see your performance." Yun Xiao''s smile made at least half of them shudder.

    Zhu Shenlu, Yu Shiling, Wind Fiend, and Greenchild exchanged nces. Their eyes burst with lethal intent as they moved again to surround Yun Xiao.

    "Wait." Yun Xiao suddenly called out, then turned to look at his shadow, saying, "This shadow devil, before you die, why not show your face to the audience?"

 Chapter 670: The Nine Suani Nis of the Thunder Immortal Formation!

    Chapter 670: The Nine Suani Nis of the Thunder Immortal Formation!

    A devil lurked in the shadows! He was meant to be a hidden assassin, striking only when Yun Xiao was at his weakest, aiming for a kill in one swift blow! But now that he had been spotted, there was no point in hiding any longer.

    As Yun Xiao spoke, a dark specter rose from his shadow, transforming into a figure cloaked in ck, his head shrouded, seemingly footless as he floated in the air¡ªa devil!

    His entire form seemed to merge with the night, nearly invisible unless looked at closely.

    In such surroundings, his movements were naturally even more elusive.

    ¡°Naraka''s devil territory, Xiu.¡± The shadowy devil appeared next to Zhu Shenlu, his dark red eyes peering coldly through the ck veil of his cloak at Yun Xiao.

    With this devil, five formidable beings were now assembled!

    One devil, two demons, and two Immortals!

    Furthermore, there were over 30 Divine Tribtion Realm celestial generals and demons!

    Thebined force surrounded Yun Xiao and his twopanions from the skies above, the ground below, and even from beneath the earth, their eyes bloodthirsty, resolved to fight to the death!¡°Seems like the gang¡¯s all here, let''s begin,¡± Yun Xiao said, stepping forward towards the front.

    His gaze fell on Zhu Shenlu, who was like a volcano, his eyes already aze with fire.

    <em>BOOM! </em>His thick palm gathered a fierce fiery glow, from which a giant Sword Soul, four feet long and four inches wide, bathed in mes, was born.

    It was clearly a Palm Sword, but it seemed almost like a Sovereign Sword!

    ¡°Upper Dao Heaven grade Sword Soul, Melting Sky, with 29 Sword Prisons," Yue Yin whispered in Yun XIao''s ear.

    As a Sword Cultivator, she deeply understood this foe of the same ilk.

    Yue Yin¡¯s Sword Soul was also Upper Dao Heaven grade, with one more Sword Prison than Zhu Shenlu, totalling 30.

    In terms of Sword Soul grades, Yue Yin and Zhu Shenlu were second only to the Northstar Sword Devil and his son Jian Chi. Yet¡­ these were still the most powerful Sword Souls in the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    At that moment, Zhu Shenlu, wielding Melting Sky, became one with the sword, whipping up a fierce firestorm. The spirit above his head manifested into a fire deity with a cauldron for a head, spewing fierce mes!

    In the Late Anima Tribtion Realm, Zhu Shenlu''s spirit had endured three tribtions. It wielded the essence of the Earth Pulse Thunder, Volcanic Thunder, and Moonwater Thunder. These elements, fused into his celestial power, were devastatingly lethal!

    The crucial part was that Zhu Shenlu had no intention of facing Yun Xiao alone!

    To his left, the resentment demon Wind Fiend transformed into a dark red storm, swirling towards Yun Xiao, while to his right, the shadowy devil silently vanished into the darkness, his killing intent spreading like deadly poison!

    "Yue Yin is ours," said Yu Shiling and Greenchild as they exchanged a nce, a chilling smirk forming on their sharp features.

    "Her blood smells delicious..." Greenchild narrowed his eyes, inhaling deeply, savoring the scent.

    They faced her two against one¡ªa significant advantage!

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao, a mere youth, was encircled by a deadly trio of Immortal, demon, and devil!

    Of course, the greatest pressure was on Gu Suwan, as the thirty celestial generals and demons, unassigned to any other foe, focused solely on her!

    Without breaking through to the Anima Tribtion Realm, she couldn''t defeat even one of them!

    Now, she was truly helpless, even escape was an impossibility!

    In that moment, under the grim murderous intent of the thirty foes, the hearts of Yue Yin and Gu Suwan turned ice-cold... They were prepared to meet their end!

    Their enemies drew ever closer!

    The air grew increasingly vtile!

    "Don''t panic."

    Yun Xiao looked unwaveringly at Zhu Shenlu, Wind Fiend, and Xiu, then gazed skyward again.

    "Don''t forget. The Thunder Department''s Thunder Immortal Formation doesn''t onlymand the heavenly thunder. It''s also protected by the Suan Ni!"

    The Suan Ni was the symbol of the Thunder Department!

    Even the simplest Rank 9 Arbiter bore the image of the Suan Ni!

    "Right!" Gu Suwan remembered, her spirit soaring. She hadn''t forgotten; she simply hadn''t considered he could still wield the Thunder Immortal Formation to this effect, without the Nine Thunder Sovereign''s Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron!

    Just as the enemies were about to strike again, an extraordinary change urred!

    Above in the skies, the Thunder Immortal Formation, seemingly dimming, suddenly burst forth like a returning light, emitting a thunderous roar that shook the heavens!

    This sound terrified the celestial beings, who had already been scared by a previous heavenly ordeal. Hearing the thunder, they scattered far and wide!

    "Don''t worry, the Thunder Immortal Formation is spent!" Zhu Shenlu shouted, his eyes zing as he stood his ground.

    As his words fell, Yun Xiao looked up to the heavens and calmly said, "Demons invade, false Immortals rebel, and the Thunder Department faces destruction. Divine beast Suan Ni, will you not aid me?"

    His thunderous words, powered by his spirit, reached deep into the foundation of the Thunder Immortal Formation!

    Only in the most desperate situations could this protective formation be unleashed to its fullest!

    As Yun Xiao''s deration resounded through the heavens, the dimming Thunder Immortal Formation above seemed toe alive, erupting in furious, heaven-shaking thunder!

    The roar of the Suan Ni swept through the Thunder Department''s domain, igniting the faith in the hearts of every Arbiter devoted to their symbol.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Thunder Immortal Formation, which had protected the Thunder Department for countless ages, suddenly began to violently contract.

    It had been dim, but as it contracted and condensed, it grew brilliantly intense!

    It was unimaginable that the Thunder Immortal Formation could reach such a point of infinite concentration!

    Not only did it contract, but it also split into nine, initially forming nine glowing orbs of thunderous electricity. Then, it transformed into nine thunderous Suan Nis, each issuing a heaven-shaking roar as they descended from the skies!

    These nine Suan Nis shed with destructive lightning, racing around Yun Xiao!

    For a moment, the entire Thunder Department was devoid of light, yet around Yun Xiao, it was as bright as day.

    Protected by the Suan Nis, the young man¡¯s ck hair billowed like that of a peerless thunder god, his spirit rejuvenated!

    "You are now truly the soul of the Thunder Department¡­" Gu Suwan''s eyes trembled with surging thunderlight.

    She could hardly believe that someone capable of obliterating the Thunder Department''s 10,000 Immortals and ying the Nine Thunders Sovereign could, at this moment, merge sopletely with the faith of the Thunder Department, summoning the legendary Suan Nis to battle for him!

    Trump card after trump card. It appeared Yun Xiao had endless reserves.

    Just how many more secrets did this youth still hold?

    Not just Gu Suwan, but the five top powerhouses watched the young man and nine Suan Nis with furrowed brows, their expressions twisted, furious, and ugly!

    "Ultimately, the formation has been driven to exhaustion. Once he is in, all these Suan Nis will dissipate like smoke!" Zhu Shenlu said gravely.

    "Let¡¯s fight." Wind Fiend nced back at the thrivingnds of the Thunder Department.

    The Chaos Sovereign had agreed! Once Yun Xiao was killed, the Thunder Department''s Immortals would be sacrificed to the demons and devils of Naraka! They couldn''t wait!

    "I''ming over," Yu Shiling said.

    She was preparing to join Zhu Shenlu when, just as she spoke, Yun Xiao dispatched three of the thunderous Suan Nis to Yue Yin''s side.

    At the same time, he sent two more to protect Gu Suwan!

    So, only four remained by the young man¡¯s side.

    "A mere Golden Immortal¡­ Your spirit hasn''t even transcended tribtions. You think you can bluff your way out of this with just four Suan Nis?"

    Zhu Shenlu waved his hand to stop Yu Shiling froming over, his eyes aze as he stared fixedly at Yun Xiao.

    "What? You guys want me to bring out more? Too bad, I''ve got bigger fish to fry." With those words, Yun Xiao turned his back and soared toward the highest clouds.

    He aimed for the loftiest cloud bank! Just then, the thunderclouds and demonic miasma finally began to disperse somewhat.

    As Yun Xiao, in his tinum Arbiter armor, ascended with the four Suan Nis, many in the Thunder Department saw his ascent through the brilliant shes of thunder.

    "Lu Yao''s not dead!"

    "Thank goodness!"

    "Wait, there''s people chasing him!"

    Suddenly, tension gripped everyone.

    The ones in pursuit were naturally Zhu Shenlu, Wind Fiend, and the unseen Xiu!

    As Yun Xiao took to the skies, below him the two womenmenced their fierce battle.

    Yue Yin, with three Suan Nis, battled alone against Yu Shiling and Greenchild!

    Gu Suwan, nked by two Suan Nis, was besieged by 30 celestial generals and demons in the Anima Tribtion Realm!

    The battle below erupted instantly. The swords of Sword Immortals, the sigils of Inscription Immortals, the celestial weapons of Martial Immortals, the magic of devils, and the iron-hard bodies of demons... all shed together in rapid session!

    <em>ROAR! </em>The five Suan Nis, protecting the two women, unleashed booming thunderous light, stirring up dust upon the earth once more!

    Though the battle raged fiercely, the attention of the onlookers was drawn skyward!

    "Is Lu Yao and the me Virtue General fighting against that wind demon?"

    "No! Why is Zhu Shenlu attacking our Champion?!"

    This battle, just beginning, stirred incredible turmoil within the Thunder Department.

    "It must be the Chaos Sovereign''s doing. He''s aiming to crush Lu Yao''s talents!"

    "He''s tantly betraying the Celestial Court!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Send flying talismans! Inform everyone in the Great Dao Celestial Realm!"

    "Record the crimes of the Great Dao Celestial Army with Projection Orbs!"

    The Thunder Department was abuzz, as countless Arbiters were filled with righteous indignation.

    Yet, Zhu Shenlu paid them no heed; today was the day for revtions!

    In the sky, Yun Xiao soared between heaven and earth, one hand grasping a three-foot azure de and another wielding a violet umbre. Beside him, four thunderous Suan Nis guarded him. His divine countenance was heaven-defying, his gaze superior to all!

    His look at Zhu Shenlu was one of disdain.

    "Kill!" Zhu Shenlu grasped his four-foot Melting Sky Sword Soul, his body rumbling like a volcano, tracing a path of magma as he instantly appeared above Yun Xiao!

    Amidst his fiery rage, 29 Sword Prisons, like real volcanoes, whipped up a sky of fierce mes, resembling 29va worlds plummeting down!

    The Melting Sky Sword Soul was immensely heavy, its presence transcendent, with its Sword Prisons spinning, weaving countless Sword Auras into a sun-like ferocity. Under the divine might of his fire deity spirit, a single strike had the power to obliterate thousands!

    This was an Upper Dao Heaven grade Palm Sword Technique, Tai Ah¡¯s me.

    It was one of the Great Dao Celestial Army''s renowned sword techniques, known for its power and explosiveness, which perfectly aligned with Zhu Shenlu''s nature.

    Without Yun Xiao''s direction, two of the Suan Nis roared to his side, their bodies condensing with explosive electricity,unching hundreds of lightning strikes to counter Zhu Shenlu¡¯s earth-shattering sh!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The sh of the fiery Sword Soul and the Thunder Immortal Formation''s lightning exploded into sharp sounds of electric and fiery detonation!

    "Break!" Zhu Shenlu, as the me Virtue General, had fought in many battles and was truly formidable. His sword actually shattered two Suan Nis!

    However, as his de furiously descended once more, Yun Xiao was no longer where he was aiming.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The residual force of the sword struck the ground, the fiery Sword Aura instantly swallowing several dozen residences within the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, and leveling them to the ground.

    "Wind Fiend!"

    With a roar fueled by rage, Zhu Shenlu called out.

    In a coordinated assault, the essence was teamwork!

    Yun Xiao, with two Suan Nis, blocked Zhu Shenlu''s attack and vanished in a sh... but Wind Fiend and Xiu were not about to let him escape easily.

    Just as Yun Xiao dodged Zhu Shenlu''s strike, a chilling wind burst behind him. A red wind vortex suddenly appeared, its heart-wrenching scream carrying the power to corrode the spirit, sweeping out from the vortex!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 671: Though All Worlds Fall to Silence, I Shall Not Die!

    Chapter 671: Though All Worlds Fall to Silence, I Shall Not Die!

    "Ooooooh!" The wailing that tore through the air was undeniably chilling, but what truly spelled doom was the ensuing red tempest!

    "This resentment demon is simr to an Anima Immortal¡­"

    Yun Xiao remainedposed. His left hand wielded a violet umbre, inscribed with 22 Sacred Dragon Rune Prisons, spinning rapidly. The divine forms of the Prison Warden Dao Dragon materialized, shielding him from the onught!

    With a roar, the umbre morphed into a violet vortex, mping down on the demonic winds of the red tempest. Violet shed with crimson above, a deadly dance of the Prison Warden Sigil''s purifying force against the malevolent spiritual force of Wind Fiend.

    "I may be weaker, but the Prison Warden Sigil is her bane!"

    The collision sent Yun Xiao hurtling back, while Wind Fiend, twisted and writhing, was smeared with the shadows of violet dragons. She recoiled into the form of a woman in a red robe, clutching her head in agony, the Prison Warden Sigil''s power tormenting her greatly.

    Yet, Yun Xiao suffered more. As he was repelled by the wind, a blood-red spike descended from the sky, aimed straight for his crown. The spike bore a phantom of devilish mien, faint yet foreboding.

    They were not three against one in slow session; these three deadly strikes happened in a blink, and only Yun Xiao''s swift reactions dealt with them in time.

    Even so, the blood spike was a hair-raising menace.In that electrifying instant, Yun Xiao, though motionless, manifested his spirit above him. In its hands, a white lotus burst forth, shielding him from the spike. The petals exploded into 99 white dragons, biting at the shadow devil''s manifested blood spirit!

    <em>BOOM! </em>At the same time, the four Suan Nis converged above Yun Xiao, forming a thunder array that struck at the shadow devil!

    With a wet thud, the spike, disrupted, missed its mark, piercing Yun Xiao¡¯s shoulder by three inches instead!

    Hissing fiercely, blood serpents sprang from the spike, burrowing into Yun Xiao¡¯s flesh!

    His expression darkened, and his umbre transformed into a dragon, enveloping his body. It expelled the spike and strangled the serpents into ashes!

    From the first strike to Yun Xiao¡¯s wounded shoulder, it all urred in mere moments!

    Indeed, Yun Xiao¡¯s quick reactions and counterattacks left his powerful foes in awe, unable to fathom how a mere youth in the Golden Immortal Realm could push them this far.

    Yun Xiao was not solely reliant on the four Suan Nis.

    The shadow devil Xiu had lunged for the kill, only to be met with simultaneous strikes from Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit and the four Suan Nis. He was sted away in a spray of crimson. His manifested blood spirit reeled back into his body with a thunderous crash!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao¡¯s expression turned icy as he soared higher, ready to strike again.

    Having narrowly escaped the assassination attempt, Yun Xiao had no chance to rest; the blood spike in his shoulder was followed swiftly by deadly moves from Zhu Shenlu and Wind Fiend!

    "Die!"

    From the hands of Zhu Shenlu flew a Flying Sword, its fiery spirit morphing the de into a phoenix that dove straight for Yun Xiao¡¯s heart!

    Almost simultaneously, Wind Fiend behind him transformed, exploding into hundreds of blood-red des of wind that furiously shed towards him.

    <em>Demon magic, Soul-Scattering Wind des!</em>

    "I''m almost touched, demons, devils, and Immortals all working so well together," Yun Xiao quipped with a sarcastic smile.

    Despite the wound on his shoulder, hisbat strength remained unhampered. The four Suan Nis around him were an indomitable force, their power far from depleted.

    "Come!"

    With a roar from the Prison Warden Sigil, nine dragon heads emerged around Yun Xiao.

    At hismand, the four Suan Nis rushed to his side.

    Yun Xiao reached out, grasping two of Suan Nis, while the dragon heads of the Prison Warden Sigil snapped onto the others.

    In an instant, the Prison Warden Sigil and the thunderous might of the Suan Nis fused together!

    In that moment, the power of the Thunder Immortal Formation surged through the Prison Warden Sigil, converging upon Yun Xiao.

    With a booming explosion, his body erupted in blinding, destructive lightning!

    His hair stood on end, each strand transforming into a dragon of thunder, roaring in fury!

    A tremendous barrage of divine thunder gathered along the violet dragon patterns on his body, his eyes like pools of a storm, continuously shing with electric light, illuminating the entire Thunder Department!

    With a hum, the countless Immortals of the Thunder Department witnessed this defiance of the heavens, their hearts thunderstruck!

    What sort of thunderous beast was this?

    In their excited gazes, Yun Xiao suddenly spoke, each word thundering through the heavens!

    "Though all worlds fall to silence, I shall not die!"

    As Yun Xiao roared, his body became a nexus of thunder, gathering an endless storm of lightning which exploded in an instant!

    Thunderous booms echoed as devastating waves of lightning burst forth from the youth, sweeping across the sky in blinding shes.

    Countless violet thunder dragons surged in all directions, striking at Zhu Shenlu, Wind Fiend, and the others!

    In that instant, the Thunder Department was as bright as day under the shes of lightning, and the roar of furious dragons shook the ground continuously!

    "This is the strongest celestial magic of our Thunder Department¡ªNine Heavens World Quake!"

    This signature move of the Nine Thunders Sovereign, now unleashed by Yun Xiao drawing on the power of the Suan Ni, formed a spherical current of electricity that exploded outward, engulfing everything around!

    A sun made of thunder burst nine times in the sky of the Thunder Department!

    The roars of dragons and Suan Nis even drowned out the shrill cries of Wind Fiend, as this corner of the world resonated with the purest and most fierce thunderps!

    With a final booming sh, the thunderous sun exploded, sending waves of lightning hundreds of miles wide. In the sky above, it formed a colossal thunder lotus, blooming with fierce beauty!

    This lotus, woven from threads of lightning, epitomized the sublime pinnacle of celestial magic!

    The Immortals of the Thunder Department were stunned by this spectacle!

    Yun Xiao''s three formidable foes bore the brunt of the Nine Heavens World Quake, their assaults abruptly halted as they were forced to defend!

    Even with all their might, under this apocalyptic thunderstorm, all three sustained injuries.

    Zhu Shenlu was charred from the waist up, his face furrowed with dozens of cuts from the electric serpents, his eyes nearly popping out, and his sword cracked with electric fissures!

    Wind Fiend, condensed back into the form of a woman in a red robe, was deathly pale, her body trembling, covered in soul-searing electricity!

    Including the shadow devil Xiu, who suffered the worst under this indiscriminate assault; his lower body waspletely sted away, his cloak destroyed, revealing a face marred by blood serpents!

    The trio''s hearts felt as though they had been struck by thunder multiple times!

    "The good news is, his coffin should be ineffective now," Zhu Shenlu rasped.

    This was of utmost concern!

    "The bad news is, in just two days, even without the Suan Nis, he now has the strength to face any of us alone..." Wind Fiend said with a tremble.

    "He''s nearly exhausted all the power of the Suan Nis; we can kill him now!" Shaking his head, Zhu Shenlu growled, his murderous intent surging even stronger!

    "Let''s go!"

    And in that moment, Yun Xiaonded once again amid the trio, surrounded by a crackling halo of thunder.

    "me Virtue General!" Yun Xiao eyed him with a familiar smirk, raising an eyebrow at the fiery Sword Immortal.

    "What now?" Zhu Shenlu furrowed his brows, his gaze piercing.

    "You seem to have misunderstood one thing!" Yun Xiao dered.

    "What''s that?" Zhu Shenlu gritted his teeth.

    "Now, it''s my turn to strike first!"

    No sooner had Yun Xiao spoken than his body sprang into action!

    Roaring, the four Suan Nis beside him, though greatly weakened, split into two groups, pressing towards Wind Fiend and Xiu.

    In the blink of an eye, Yun Xiao¡¯s cold gaze fixed on Zhu Shenlu!

    He sheathed his Runic Umbre, grasping only a Sword Soul in his hand. It was the Heaven Burial Sword Soul with only five Sword Prisons!!

    The young man in tinum-white armor stepped forward like a tempest, holding an azure de, staring coldly at the me Virtue General.

    "I''m giving you the fullbo!"

    The moment his words fell, Yun Xiao flicked his azure sword, which instantly transformed into a three-inch Flying Sword, shooting forth with fury!

    His spirit clung to this Flying Sword!

    At first, simple in itsunch, the Flying Sword stirred a cosmic upheaval the moment it left his hand, gathering a supreme aura of doom!

    <em>HUM! </em>A piercing ng tore through the celestial expanse!

    Zhu Shenlu''splexion changed.

    "Immortal Sword Court Flying Sword Technique, One Sword to y the Immortal!"

    This was the Flying Sword, refined to the pinnacle of lethal intent¡ªseemingly in yet delivering utter annihtion!

    And there, Yun Xiao''s spirit guided the Flying Sword like a Sovereign Sword, a lotus blossoming in his hand.

    Even if the Heaven Burial Sword Soul only had five Sword Prisons, the very presence of this white lotus caused Zhu Shenlu to panic.

    "Break!" Zhu Shenlu suddenly swung his de, splitting his Melting Sky Sword Soul in two, forming a pair of Palm Swords that intersected to block Yun Xiao¡¯s devastating strike!

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword was deflected, but the white lotus of his spirit crashed onto Zhu Shenlu''s fire deity spirit.

    Zhu Shenlu screamed, his head nearly splitting as he spat blood and was flung backward!

    "He''s so powerful! Too powerful!"

    Before he could recover, Yun Xiao''s was already upon him, reaching for the Flying Sword that had just been deflected, swiftly reforming it into a three-foot azure de.

    "Immortal Sword Court Palm Sword Technique, Three Suns Opening the Heavens!"

    Zhu Shenlu''s eyes widened, his scalp tingled as he steadied his body amidst spitting blood, channeling a tremendous surge of celestial power. His dual swords swept out like a fiery tornado, engulfing Yun Xiao¡¯s sword with a storm of mes from 29 Sword Prisons.

    Yet, what Zhu Shenlu couldn''t have anticipated was the ferocity of Yun Xiao¡¯s technique. With each strike, akin to three fierce suns colliding, three continuous shes sent his Melting Sky Sword Soul flying!

    "NOOOO!" As Zhu Shenlu roared with bulging eyes, Yun Xiao flicked his Sword Soul downward, leaping to stand on it as it transformed into a six-foot Sovereign Sword!

    "Immortal Sword Court Sovereign Sword Technique, Nine Realms Counterflow..."

    This was the final move in Yun Xiao''s trio of attacks!

    The moment his feet touched the Sovereign Sword, it spun wildly, turning the young warrior into a tide-master surfing the seas of the nine realms, stirring up a deadly storm!

    <em>CRASH! </em>The mighty sword, like the seas of nine worlds, crashed into the chest of Zhu Shenlu!

    "UGH..."

    With a soul-severing pallor and a cry of agony, Zhu Shenlu was pierced through by Yun Xiao and sent flying 3,000 meters amidst the shing lightning in the sky!

    Thud, thud, thud!

    "You..."

    Zhu Shenlu was killed mid-air by Yun Xiao! His eyes were wide open in death! He died in fear!

    And with that trio of moves¡ªflinging the Flying Sword, following with a Palm Sword, and finally crashing down with the Sovereign Sword¡ªYun Xiao wasn''t just deadly; he was devastatingly stylish!

    This spectacle was witnessed by every Arbiter of the Thunder Department, their heads turned skyward, seeing everything clearly!

    Thunderous cheers swept across the Thunder Department, triggering a greater earthquake.

    "Heh." Yun Xiao, absorbing Zhu Shenlu''s sword bone, turned back to look at the battlefield in the Cao Immortal Manor.

    His heavenly defying performance had already subdued all opponents!

    He knew the moment Zhu Shenlu fell, the battle to defend the Thunder Department was undoubtedly won.

    "Next, harvest the fear of my enemies, and relish in the adoration of my supporters."

 Chapter 672: Death and Twin Pony-Tails

    Chapter 672: Death and Twin Pony-Tails

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Above, the thunder roared without end. And below, Immortals, devils, and demons shed with Suan Nis. Sword energy, sigils, and magic flew out in every direction.

    The battlefield was a vision of chaos and ruin.

    Amid this maelstrom of celestial power, magic, and carnage, upon the scorched earth of what once was the Cao Immortal Manor, a dark tide unexpectedly appeared. No one knew when the water had emerged. Everyone was too intent on ying their foe to care about the sudden water underfoot.

    This water, as if conjured from thin air, squirmed over the ground, creeping over corpse after corpse like some living thing.

    Whether Immortal or devil, or even the physically powerful demons, they all twisted, shrank, and rotted under the assault of the salty sea water, disappearing before one could notice.

    A thousand celestial generals and several thousand demons, whole bodies and fragments alike, vanished silently amidst the furious melee.

    Screams echoed as some of these victims, not quite dead, with their spirits still clinging to their flesh, hoped for a chance at revival. Initially indifferent to the encroaching seawater, panic quickly set in, and they were swallowed whole in their terror.

    The dark seawater advanced, washing away blood and remnants of corpses so thoroughly that even their spirits seemed devoured.

    The sea spoke like a little girl collecting seashells at the shore, murmuring to herself, "Flesh to eat, blood to drink, bones and spirits I save for Yun Xiao. He''s just like a doggy, who loves to gnaw on bones."All the beings of the Thunder Department were immersed in a harrowing ughter, while she seemed to exist in another world, merely eating, drinking, and collecting.

    Whatever Yun Xiaomanded, she did without question.

    Before anyone realized, the battlefield was eerily cleansed.

    The ck sea converged into a spot, and with a rush, formed a little girl in white socks and twin ponytails. She blinked herrge, dark eyes and touched her slightly swollen belly, contentedly murmuring, "Seems I''m full now."

    It was clear she had been hungry for a long time.

    Still with a lingering craving, she bit her lip and looked towards the nearby battlefield where Gu Suwan and others, with the aid of five Suan Nis, engaged in a perilous fight, their lives hanging by a thread at every turn.

    "They look fresher and tastier..." The little girl twitched her delicate nose, inhaling the enticing aroma of the demons, refined through countless tribtions. To her, these beings were like meat roasted over and over again; tough, but oh so savory.

    "Yun Xiao said to help," she murmured, and as she spoke, her stomach growled with hunger again.

    Every time Yun Xiao drew the deathly aura from her, she felt ravenous¡ªso hungry she could probably snack on a giant elephant!

    And then, she saw an elephant.

    It was a demon elephant, as if cast from solid gold, moving like a mountain of metal. Its legs and trunk were like destructive celestial weapons, causing the earth to shatter wherever they struck.

    It was a Divine Tribtion Realm demon!

    At that moment, this golden elephant was at the forefront, shing repeatedly with a Suan Ni, using its tough hide and immense strength to wear down the thunderous beast, allowing the other Divine Tribtion Realm demons and Immortals to close in and attack Gu Suwan!

    Despite the protection of two Suan Nis, Gu Suwan, who''d just entered the Divine Tribtion Realm, waspletely outnumbered. As an Inscription Immortal, she could barely defend herself, struggling greatly and repeatedly facing deadly perils.

    "The Chaos Sovereign has already shown his true colors! The Thunder Department has been betrayed! If we fall, these ferocious demons will ravage the Thunder Department, turning it into a living hell!"

    Gu Suwan had realized the grim truth, but all she could do was seethe with anger.

    She loved the Thunder Department! It was the eyes of the Celestial Court and a sacrednd of justice! But now it was being defiled by demons, devils, and conspirators!

    She didn''t know how it all came to this. All she knew was that she could not fall; she had to draw as much attention from the enemies as possible to alleviate Yun Xiao''s burden!

    <em>BOOM! </em>One by one, the demons tore through her shields with their magic, closing in on Gu Suwan.

    The Sword, Inscription, and Martial Immortals from the Great Dao Celestial Army were also surrounding her, eyeing her coldly.

    "She won''t be able to hold on much longer!"

    The enemies sneered coldly at her struggle, their derision adding immense pressure on Gu Suwan.

    Her hair was disheveled, her body marred with blood, and the excessive use of her celestial power left her skin pallid.

    "Golden Elephant! Lead the charge!" a cold voicemanded.

    With a roar, the golden elephant unleashed its celestial power, breaking through the Suan Nis with a bellow, its mountainous body surging forward like a juggernaut.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The golden trunk of the elephant swung up, whipping towards Gu Suwan with the force of a maelstrom!

    The air trembled and golden light burst forth.

    One could tell that if that majestic force struck true, it would split Gu Suwan into two mounds of flesh!

    "It''s over..." Gu Suwan thought, not out of despair, but because the encirclement was too overwhelming.

    She could only dodge, weaving through the myriad deadly threats.

    Yet, that golden trunk, like a sword of death, still reached her!

    Engulfed by impending doom, tears surged in Gu Suwan''s eyes.

    Just at that moment, a little girl in a maid outfit and white socks suddenly appeared before her, embracing the massive trunk with her slender arms.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The little girl stood her ground, immovable, while the trunk, as if it had struck arger mountain of gold, trembled violently, bursting forth with blood!

    The shock traveled back to the elephant demon, causing its mountainous body to shake as if struck by lightning.

    With a grunt, the elephant spewed a mouthful of golden blood, staring in terror at the little girl before it and tremblingly asked, "What are you?"

    An <em>ant</em> had caught hold of it!

    Terrified, it frantically tried to pull its trunk free. But no matter how hard it pulled, it wouldn''t budge! It nearly tore its own trunk off!

    The little girl merely held it gently!

    "Let go!" the golden elephant demon roared in fear.

    As the sound waves shook the air, the little girl finally moved.

    Holding the trunk, she gave a light toss, and the entire golden giant was flung into the air, transforming into a meteor hammer in her hands.

    <em>BOOM! </em>She soared upwards.

    "Ahhh!" The golden giant bled profusely, screaming in agony.

    The Immortals and demons watched in stunned silence.

    An ant had swung a giant elephant! And then, the Divine Tribtion Realm demons, devils, and Immortals were instantly petrified.

    Because that little girl, wielding the golden giant, swung it towards them!

    "Run!"

    Shouts of warning were toote. Supreme force begat supreme speed. The elephant, like a golden mountain, left a gilded blur as it smashed through the crowd of Immortals, devils, and demons.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A four-headed serpent demon was pulverized into a paste by the hurtling mass.

    Of course, the golden elephant was bleeding too, continuing to scream in agony.

    It was the toughest there, ideal for use as a weapon.

    The hearts of the onlookers pounded as they watched the girl whirl the elephant around, her speed like a lightning storm, chasing down the other demons and smashing them mercilessly!

    The violence was electrifying!

    From the original cohort of about 20 Divine Tribtion Realmbatants, several of therger demons were quickly reduced to pulp.

    The smaller, quicker ones, thinking of nothing else, started to flee!

    "It''s a corpse demon! A corpse demon!"

    Demons from Naraka harbored innate fear towards corpse demons, a uniquely malevolent creation, a monster among demons!

    With a thunderous crash, the golden elephant hit the ground, its spirit departed.

    Though it was once a mighty elephant, now only its trunk and a jumbled pile of bones remained. The rest of its flesh and organs had been obliterated.

    "A corpse demon has appeared in the Thunder Department, aiding Lu Yao. Withdraw from the battlefield below, let the Supreme Generals handle this!"

    Within the ranks of the Great Dao Celestial Army, a towering elder with white hair bellowed.

    He was a Martial Immortal, one of the physically strongest among the celestial generals. As he spoke, he began to retreat. But suddenly, the little girl appeared right before him.

    She arrived, and the sonic boom of her approach barely outpaced her.

    When the white-haired Martial Immortal saw the twin ponytails fluttering, he knew doom hade.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Die!" he roared, swinging a golden demon-ying staff, a Dao Heaven grade celestial weapon, toward the little girl''s face.

    Unseen until thest moment, the little girl reached out, catching the staff effortlessly and, with a slight twist, wrested it from the Martial Immortal''s grasp.

    "Ah?" The white-haired elder stared at his empty hands, frozen in shock.

    With both hands on the staff, the girl pushed down and struck with her knee.

    <em>CRACK! </em>The staff snapped in two.

    "Ouch!" the little girl eximed, looking at her reddened hands. She wouldn''t have tried to bend it if she''d known it would snap so easily.

    "Ah?" The white-haired elder watched in disbelief, his spirit twitching.

    "It''s your fault!" the girl pouted, ring at him.

    "Ah?" The white-haired elder stood dumbfounded. <em>You hurt yourself and me me?</em>

    His eyes widened, then watched as her small fist grewrger before his eyes.

    <em>BOOM! </em>His head exploded under the impact.

    The girl''s body twisted violently, transforming into a ck, leech-like beast, devouring the headless corpse, mashing it to a pulp.

    Moments ago, she had seemed almost cute; now, she terrified everyone, causing hearts to leap with fear.

    The remaining Immortals, devils, and demons, struck dumb with horror, thought of nothing but escape.

    <em>POP! POP! POP!</em>

    The twin ponytails blurred past, a furious whirlwind of destruction.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!</em>

    One by one, Immortals, devils, and demons were punched into the ground, creating craters, blood sttering everywhere.

    None survived!

    <em>BOOM! </em>After ughtering her foes, the girlnded, and the ground of the Thunder Department quaked under her diminutive form, demonstrating her unbelievable mass.

    Gu Suwan was dumbstruck, having gone from the brink of death to witnessing all her adversaries perish... Her legs trembled as she looked at the little girl before her, realizing only now the extent of her ferocity.

    "Are you hungry too? Do you want some?" the girl asked, pulling a bloody human eyeball from behind her back.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    IYKYK

    <strong>IYKYK. ??</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 673: I Come From the Deep Sea!

    Chapter 673: I Come From the Deep Sea!

    Gu Suwan clutched her throat and stammered, ¡°No, no, go ahead, I''m not hungry...¡±

    ¡°Okay, more for me then.¡± Pale Revenant''s form dispersed with a whoosh, transforming into a ck torrent of the deep sea, sweeping across the battlefield once more.

    The golden elephant, Martial Immortals, and True Devils were left without a single drop of blood.

    The battlefield was clean again!

    With a ssh, the little girl reformed before Gu Suwan¡¯s eyes, sniffed her armpit, and murmured with a furrowed brow, ¡°I ate too much, it stinks.¡±

    Indeed, her presence was thick with the stench of death, her eyes pale as if gazing from the depths of the grave, a somewhat terrifying sight.

    ¡°Pale Revenant¡­¡± Gu Suwan knew the little girl''s name. Finally calming down, she pointed off in the distance. ¡°Look over there, a giant leech, its flesh is the richest and most fragrant.¡±

    Following her gaze, one could see, on the other side, Yue Yin still battling two powerful demons alone!

    It was Greenchild and Yu Shiling!But clearly, Yue Yin had passed the hardest part.

    This was because the two Suan Nis that had been by Gu Suwan¡¯s side had gone to support her!

    Now, five Suan Nis fought at her side!

    The battle was fierce; they were under great pressure, facing death repeatedly... until Pale Revenant, a force that disrupted the bnce, finally arrived!

    And this, too, was orchestrated by Yun Xiao.

    In that moment, Gu Suwan looked up to see Yun Xiao single-handedly y Zhu Shenlu¡ªthis was the true turning point!

    The entire Thunder Department erupted in uproar!

    All the confusion and reluctance in Gu Suwan''s heart vanished, leaving only infinite admiration for this young man in her heart!

    She''d be one of his devoted followers, just like Pale Revenant!

    ¡°Go eat it then!¡± Gu Suwan, suppressing the excitement in her heart, directed Pale Revenant once more.

    ¡°Mhm!¡± Pale Revenant nodded obediently and vanished from beside Gu Suwan.

    In the next instant, this tiny shadow appeared beside the green leech, her fist smashing into it and sttering copious green blood!

    ¡°Zhu Shenlu is dead! The others were in by this corpse demon too!¡±

    Yu Shiling was right there, her eyes trembling as she looked upon Pale Revenant, seemingly harmless.

    Greenchild had seen it all, his back punctured with a bloody hole!

    He exchanged a nce with Yu Shiling!

    Though they were reluctant, they both knew the mission was utterly botched!

    With a roar, one woman and one demon turned tail without a word and fled!

    ¡°Think you can just escape? What do you take me for? Thin air?¡± Yue Yin''s icy visage twisted instantly, her shout fierce as she and the five Suan Nis hotly pursued Yu Shiling!

    A Sword Immortal in her element, Yue Yin swiftly caught up to her opponent, pushing Yu Shiling down from the sky, entangling again right at the entrance of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office!

    Meanwhile, on the other side, a leech covered in suction pads crashed into the ground, tearing open a rift, and thundered away.

    ¡°Little bug, where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± Pale Revenant crashed into the earth like a cannonball.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A great chasm burst open, exploding from the Cao Immortal Manor towards the north!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    With a tremendous roar, a petite figure, grappling with the green leech, burst from the earth, green blood sttering everywhere!

    ¡°Let go!¡± the leech roared, its many suction pads iling.

    Pale Revenant didn¡¯t let go, her hands gripping a suction pad, tearing it apart!

    With a sickening sound, the leech''s skin burst open, ripped into a bloody gash!

    With a rip, green blood sttered across thend, witnessed by many of the Thunder Department''s Arbiters.

    Wherever the green blood sshed, whether on the ground or on pce structures, thick smoke billowed, and decay set in.

    ¡°Let go!¡± Greenchild, hysterical, dove into the earth many times, only for Pale Revenant to brutally drag it back out!

    ¡°There¡¯s no escaping this, I have to fight this corpse demon!¡±

    Clear in his mind, Greenchild''s body began to shrink dramatically, the once bloated mass of flesh tightening, solidifying, until it morphed into a humanoid figure, green and grim.

    Though the creature was humanoid, its body was covered in suction cups, and from its ribs sprouted eight tentacle-like appendages, also adorned with suction cups and barbs.

    "Corpse demon, is it?"

    With a sinister grin, Greenchild charged at Pale Revenant.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Their collision was an explosion of sheer brute force!

    <em>BOOM! </em>This time, both were sted away!

    It was clear that Greenchild''s fleshy body was formidable, not yet in its prime state for a brawl!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The two demons shed, causing the earth to shatter and the heavens to quake!

    In contrast to other battlegrounds, this was a raw spectacle of carnal destruction, each punchnding with a visceral impact that made blood surge and noses bleed!

    The ground continued to explode!

    Countless pce buildings were reduced to dust under the impact!

    These two moved swiftly, like shadows, and many Arbiters could only see explosions without a glimpse of the fighters!

    "A mere corpse demon, you''re leagues beneath the Great Mother!"

    With a roar, Greenchild overwhelmed Pale Revenant, suddenly embracing her!

    His eight tentacled arms instantly wrapped around Pale Revenant¡¯s limbs, their barbs piercing her flesh, the suction cupstching onto her veins!

    With a squelch, his barbs and suction cups fully connected with her body!

    In such a tight embrace, he had nearly swallowed her whole.

    "Even if you''re a corpse demon, I''ll drain your blood and leave you a dried husk!" Greenchild sneered, activating all his suction cups, unleashing his most potent innate talent¡ªcapable of extracting moisture even from a block of gold!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Even Pale Revenant''s tough body twisted under the strain.

    Her youthful face, pressed against by the suction cups and caught by the barbs, was covered in blood.

    ¡°Ordinary corpse demons, indeed, fear being drained of blood.¡± In such a life-or-death moment, Pale Revenant spoke calmly and coldly.

    As Greenchild furiously sucked, a sinister premonition washed over him.

    ¡°But, Ie from the deep sea,¡± Pale Revenant added.

    She possessed not only the traits of a corpse demon but also the grievances of the vast and deep sea.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± A chill ran through Greenchild.

    In that instant, Pale Revenant transformed into ck seawater!

    In a sh, Greenchild had sucked all of her watery form dry!

    ¡°Huh?¡± Greenchild embraced empty air, standing frozen on the spot.

    He had consumed Pale Revenant, but¡ª

    ¡°Where¡¯s the dried corpse?¡±

    His body trembled as he looked down at himself.

    Gurgling noises came from within.

    ¡°No!!¡± Greenchild cried out in despair.

    With a thunderous explosion, his body burst into countless pieces of green flesh!

    A mass of ck seawater exploded, enveloping all the flesh and instantly dissolving and devouring it!

    With a swish, the ck seawater reformed into a little girl in a maid outfit with twin ponytails, floating in the air, pouting.

    ¡°Dummy, in this world, only I eat others; no one eats me.¡± After speaking, she tilted her head, perhaps finding the term <em>dummy</em> too affectionate. So, she corrected herself and snapped, ¡°Dumbass.¡±

 Chapter 674: The Great Mothers Dining Table

    Chapter 674: The Great Mother''s Dining Table

    The battlefield below was fierce!

    Despite this, the skies remained the focal point for millions of onlookers.

    More and more of these Arbiters, emboldened and impassioned, cried out Lu Yao''s name as they drew nearer.

    Yun Xiao ignited the fighting spirit in every Arbiter!

    In this moment, those who once scorned Yun Xiao for his audacity, now stood united with the young man.

    And this <em>once</em> was merely a few days ago...

    A miracle that rose at the speed of light, branding itself in the hearts of every Arbiter within days, heralded as the shining beacon of the Thunder Department!

    "Lu Yao! Lu Yao!"

    Calls from all directions converged into a thunderous tidal wave, soaring towards the heavens."Beautiful..." Yun Xiao floated in the sky, looking downward, where all he saw were fervent eyes!

    Even as a solitary wanderer, when he resolved to fight for the people and for justice, he needed others who shared his path.

    Lu An, Liu Mumu, Cao Shuo, and Divine Dawn... They alone were not enough.

    Yun Xiao wanted to change the world, and he was right. Shouldn''t the right man be supported?

    Even though these Arbiters of the Thunder Department did not yet know Yun Xiao''s true stance, he was confident he could earn the recognition of the Immortals below Rank 6, who made up the majority of the poption!

    The millions of Thunder Department Arbiters were just the beginning of what he sought!

    "If the dayes when the truth is fully revealed, and these Arbiters refuse to stand with me, then this Great Dao Celestial Realm is truly beyond saving..." Yun Xiao surveyed the sea of people and took a deep breath.

    Regardless, his eyes were constantly aze!

    In his chest still raged that defiant, heaven-defying spirit of challenging injustice!

    It was his fate, and even more, his soul!

    Amidst the roaring crowd, the youth in tinum-white armor looked impassively at the blood-red storm before him.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Zhu Shenlu and Greenchild are dead; that shadow devil Xiu has escaped; Yu Shiling is near death, and the rest are utterly defeated. Only you are left," Yun Xiao said.

    "Mhm." The woman in red, Wind Fiend, floated in the air like a kite, thin as paper.

    She also wanted to flee like Xiu. Sadly, shecked his ability to be intangible.

    Even a gust of wind could not free her from Yun Xiao''s grasp!

    Lowering her head, Wind Fiend looked at the pale figures below and said tremulously, "The Great Mother forbids the existence of a second corpse demon in the world. By harboring it, you dere an irreconcble feud with the Great Mother and the entire Celestial Demon Abyss."

    "That''s just fine," Yun Xiao replied, ncing at the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand. "I don''t mind increasing my number of Sword Prisons."

    Wind Fiend shook her head, her voice cold and mocking, "You really defy the heavens, but sadly, you''re too naive, without a single true friend."

    "So?" Yun Xiao responded.

    "This world will never belong to a fool like you."

    After saying this, Wind Fiend covered her face and burst into madughter, herugh filled with deep scorn. She wasn''t mocking Yun Xiao''s talents or strength, but rather his naivety and innocence.

    "Angry, are you? Kill me then. I''m just a wronged spirit in the wind. What would killing me change?" Wind Fiend shrugged and tilted her chin up, herughter lingering.

    "I don''t know how far you''ll get, but people like you, who think they can change the world''s rules with just their passion, invariably meet a bad end. You keep offending people, infringing on the interests of powerful figures. One day, you''ll cross someone you shouldn''t have," she said, still smiling.

    She wasn''t afraid of death. For most demons, born from the grudges of the deceased, death was not frightening. But if she could make Yun Xiao feel lost and afraid of his path before she died, she would have won.

    What she didn''t expect was that upon hearing this, Yun Xiaoughed.

    There was no confusion or timidity in his gaze, just a calm response, "The fact that you say such things shows you truly don''t understand what I am."

    Wind Fiendughed even harder.

    "Tonight there''s a feast in the Thunder Department, and you''re thest course," Yun Xiao dered.

    It was a grand meal sent from afar by Naraka.

    He said this because, in a fury, the Moon Sword Goddess had already executed Yu Shiling.

    Below, she swung Yu Shiling''s head, fear etched upon it, towards Yun Xiao.

    She said nothing, but her actions told Yun Xiao that this was also her oath of allegiance, fighting for him.

    At that moment, all the Suan Nis soared into the sky, circling around Yun Xiao!

    He stood like a son of thunder, his divine power unmatched!

    Wind Fiend saw the fear in Yu Shiling''s eyes and her expression finally shifted.

    This time, their defeat was too severe!

    How would she face the Chaos Sovereign or the Great Mother?

    She could no longerugh, but with bloodshot eyes, stared at Yun Xiao, furiously stirring the storm.

    "A summer insect cannot speak of the winter snow," Yun Xiao said coldly, his hands gripping the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    Around the sword, 13 Sword Prisons now circled.

    Beside Yun Xiao, his spirit double manifested, taking the form of the Creator Immortal, with a white lotus in hand that condensed into a three-foot white lotus sword!

    "The Great Dao Celestial Realm and the myriad mortal realms under it is ultimately the dining table of the Great Mother!" Wind Fiend wailed miserably, transforming into a blood-red tornado, its bloody maw gaping as it lunged toward Yun Xiao.

    "She too is just a dish," Yun Xiao scoffed coldly, waving his hand as nine Suan Nis charged forth, encircling the blood-red whirlwind of Wind Fiend!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The nine Suan Nis stood proud in the positions of the nine pces, their bodies of endless thunder melting away to form an eight-trigram shaped array of thunder serpents, trapping Wind Fiend fiercely!

    The array thrummed with electric serpents, and the colossal face of Yun Xiao emerged, biting into the blood-red tempest.

    "Just a child. I dare you to fight me one-on-one without your array!" Wind Fiend screamed shrilly, her blood-red essence spreading throughout the array.

    The more she resisted, the clearer it became that she was not willing to ept defeat¡­ Only then did killing her feel satisfying!

    "Haha..." Yun Xiaoughed.

    Just moments ago, Wind Fiend had ced herself so high, yet now, in the face of fear, wasn''t she just like a ranting shrew?

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao and his spirit double, each with a sword, dominated above the array!

    Both he and the spirit, one to the left and one to the right, raised their swords towards the sky, their lightning-charged eyes sweeping across the Thunder Department.

    "I ask you all, what duty does the Thunder Department hold in maintaining celestial order?"

    Upon these words, 1,000,000 Arbiters erupted in fiery anger, shouting in unison, "Heavenly thunder enforces thew, protects the Dao, and eradicates evil!"

    "I ask you all, for those who offend our Thunder Department and destroy our foundation, what shall be their sentence?" Yun Xiao asked again.

    "Heavenly thunder crushes them, body and spirit obliterated!"

    In the midst of this widespread rage, Yun Xiao stood like a deity of judgment, looking down upon Wind Fiend.

    "Myriad thunder proims your death sentence! On behalf of the Thunder Department, receive this divine sword of judgement that descends from the heavens!"

    As his words thundered, his body surged with electric light!

    <em>Ascending the Heavens, Awakening of Insects!</em>

    Yun Xiao''s mission with the Thunder Department began with this sword, and now, it was transcended by it!

    This was the swordsmanship of the Cao Immortal Manor. But who would still remember General Cao?

    A million Arbiters of the Thunder Department saw only two swords of the youth and his spirit double descending from the heavens!

    The youth''s sword and spirit, like the thunder of spring bursting upon the earth, brought a torrential downpour of lightning. It was the loudest roar, a herald of spring warmth, blooming flowers, and the rebirth of all things!

    <em>Ascending the Heavens, Awakening of Insects!</em>

    All things came to life. The spring weed a new world!

    The sword was swift yet slow, carrying a youth''s earnest heart and people''s simple pursuit of fairness as it plunged from the sky!

    This sword silenced Wind Fiend. As if it had descended from the celestial pce to the mortal world, it shattered the hierarchy of the celestialdder, allowing those at the bottom to breathe with dignity...

    No one would forget this thunderous spring that shook heaven and earth!

    In the eyes of countless Arbiters, there was that bolt of lightning falling from the sky. Most of them still did not understand what Yun Xiao intended with this sword, but it seemed they felt something...

    That young man, there was a spirit within him.

    No one could alter it, no one could suppress it.

    From Ye Guying onwards, everything Yun Xiao did was to ensure ordinary people, mortals, could live in this world with more dignity.

    Not as ants, livestock, mere flickers of life, or insects in the eyes of others.

    "I..." Gu Suwan knew this sword all too well. Both Yun Xiao and Cao Sheng wielded this sword, yet it felt entirely different.

    It waspletely opposite! She knew better than anyone what Yun Xiao was trying to convey. At that moment, she truly understood the young man¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 675: Octopus Tentacles

    Chapter 675: Octopus Tentacles

    Perhaps once, like Wind Fiend, deep in her heart, Gu Suwan too thought Yun Xiao too naive for pursuing meaningless tasks. But now, his honest heart wasid bare for all the world. Who was fit to mock him?

    "I was wrong¡­" Gu Suwan knelt silently on the ground, and as the spring thunder roared, tears streamed down her face like rain, turning her into a figure of pure sorrow.

    For she truly regretted it. She regretted that she was not as brave as Cao Shuo, that she allowed herself to be willfully ignorant, turning a blind eye to atrocities beingmitted as if it were only the natural order of things.

    It wasn¡¯t the envy of Cao Shuo that fueled her regret, but a deep, genuine realization of her own misguided and absurd actions, finally admitting that what she had done was wrong...

    So, her tears were full of remorse.

    "Do I still have a chance to atone...?" Gu Suwan didn''t know, but she was constantly in torment.

    "Ah." Yue Yin dropped the head of Yu Shiling, patting Gu Suwan¡¯s shoulder. She said nothing. Her heart¡¯s agony mirrored Gu Suwan¡¯s exactly.

    "Perhaps, we are lucky, there are so few who can stand by him, we still have a chance to redeem ourselves," Yue Yin consoled.

    "Is there still a chance?" Gu Suwan was lost."After this battle, he will be a god of the Thunder Department; he is already seeking the support of all the Arbiters in the Thunder Department. We still need to be patient for now. But when he''s fully prepared, the moment wille to reveal the true nature of the incense offerings, and that will be the time for the decisive battle," Yue Yin exined.

    Hearing this, Gu Suwan was shaken to her core. She was no longer lost! She stood up, grasping Yue Yin excitedly, "At least, we can expose our crimes ourselves, and make everyone believe that everything he says is true!"

    "Aren''t you afraid of ruining your reputation?" Yue Yin asked with a trembling voice.

    "It doesn¡¯t matter anymore." Gu Suwan clenched her fists, her eyes resolute, "I only hope that at the moment of my death, I can be at peace with myself."

    "Do you really think that receiving the incense offerings was wrong?" Yue Yin asked, her head lowered, her voice shaking more.

    "Could it be right?" Gu Suwan replied.

    "..." Yue Yin fell silent. She took a deep breath, shaking her head with a bitter smile. "To see with our own eyes those like us, who lost their souls and became ves to the All-Life Devouring Gu¡ªthose children were once so pure, yet they turned to wood... How could this possibly be right?"

    "Yes, it''s such a simple matter of right and wrong. Why couldn''t we speak up before? Why did we flee and hide?" Gu Suwan said in agony.

    Why, indeed? They found themselves unable to continue. Even children knew right from wrong, yet adults could mask the greatest atrocities with flowery words.

    To them, Yun Xiao was like one of those children¡ªnaive but genuine.

    "The heavens have eyes, granting this most genuine child the power to defy the heavens, otherwise no one would stand up to distinguish right from wrong in this world!" Yue Yin said profoundly.

    There were many genuine children! But, their fates were often very tragic.

    Take Lu An, for example¡­ And those ascenders who came to petition¡­ They all died!

    Thousands upon thousands of bones had piled up to create Yun Xiao, and no matter how many called him naive or foolish, his heart never wavered as he unhesitatingly pursued what he saw as justice!

    He changed the hearts of Yue Yin and Gu Suwan. They confessed their guilt and expressed their regret! This, truly, was the hardest part...

    Suppressing someone was easy. Truly changing a criminal''s mind was as difficult as reaching the heavens! Often, they were only frightened, not truly repentant.

    That night, Yue Yin and Gu Suwan suffered immensely...

    One stood, the other knelt, silently watching the young man clean up the battlefield, reiming all that belonged to the Thunder Department, and silently watching him join the crowd of Arbiters, treating each one with sincerity.

    The two women watched himugh, basking in the joy of victory, as if under no pressure at all.

    This Thunder Department seemed utterly, entirely his.

    "The day the truth is torn apart, will the Thunder Department still belong to him? Will the Arbiters be his warriors?" Gu Suwan said anxiously.

    "I think..." Yue Yin took a deep breath, then nodded firmly, "They definitely will!"

    "Why?" Yue Yin looked toward the fervent Arbiters in the distance and said, "The Thunder Department is ultimately a ce of justice. Every Arbiter who grows up here is raised on thews of heaven and harbors heroic dreams of defending the Dao. We must believe that darkness only ever covers temporarily, while the greatest part of the human heart is always kindness and responsibility."

    "Is that so..."

    Having seen much darkness, she now understood how crucial a discerning and kind heart was.

    "Yes, the Thunder Department enforces the will of heaven, and each Arbiter guards their duty, everyone driven by such dreams to be an Arbiter."

    Gu Suwan was one among them.

    She too had a fiery youth, until her parents took her to the mortal realm, repeatedly threatening and brainwashing her, telling her it was time to grow up and ept reality...

    Looking back, who wasn''t naive in their youth?

    "To remain naive forever is the greatest blessing one can have in life," Yue Yin dered.

    "Yes..." Gu Suwan thought of Cao Shuo.

    Only now did she realize that this little sister-inw, whom she had once found so annoying, was truly deserving of her admiration.

    A woman scorned and desired by men, infamous yet guarding a fiercely honest light within...

    Their thoughts were abundant.

    "Um..."

    Suddenly, a timid voice sounded behind them.

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan turned around.

    There stood a little girl in a maid outfit with twin ponytails and white socks, holding two green, suction-cup-covered tentacles, and she asked, "Aunties, would you like some octopus tentacles?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    That night in the Thunder Department was dazzling.

    It was as if the dark skies had never descended.

    The young man, with his own light, illuminated this corner of the world, making it a ce nearly devoid of sin in the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Only two sinners remained, and they too had confessed.

    Above in the Celestial Court, there was no cleaner ce than this.

    Such a radiant, intense, majestic, youthful, and fervent ce... surely, it would make many people, and certain beings, ufortable!

    High above, within the floating pce, three figures observed the scene below in silence¡ªthe Crown Prince, the Northstar Sword Devil, and the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    Yun Xiao, that night, had said nothing at all. Yet, his unity with the millions of Arbiters in the Thunder Department had spoken volumes. The cheers rising from below were so piercingly loud!

    It wasn''t until the cheering subsided that the Crown Prince''s expression warped slightly, then he suddenlyughed, "It''s too noisy, someone might think the boy is the Emperor of the Celestial Court."

    The Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign exchanged a cool nce.

    "With this atmosphere, without the Nine Thunders Sovereign, the Thunder Department might as well be considered in revolt against the Celestial Court," the Northstar Sword Devil said coldly.

    "It does have that kind of atmosphere," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign remarked, stroking his beard. "But it''s futile. The lower and middle ranked Immortals naturally fall in line; Yun Xiao can''t shake the Nine Thunders Sovereign''s position in the Thunder Department. Should a conflict arise, all Yun Xiao''s efforts will be in vain."

    "Crown Prince, how do you see everything tonight?" The Northstar Sword Devil shifted the conversation to the regal figure.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Do you mean the corpse demon, Yun Xiao''s proven control over the Thunder Immortal Formation, and his incredible defiance of fate?" the Crown Prince asked evenly.

    "Yes." The Northstar Sword Devil nodded.

    "For now, it''s a good thing," the Crown Prince''s lips curled slightly. "He''s too young, too thin on allies. To go head-to-head against us and Lu Fan, he''s too inexperienced. But now, seeing he''s stronger than we thought, the sh between him and Sovereign Lu will be quite the spectacle."

    "They are both dangerous characters," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign agreed.

    "Tonight, by making an enemy of Lu Fan and fostering intolerable hatred with the Great Mother with his nurturing of a corpse demon... Do you think there''s still room for reconciliation between him and Sovereign Lu?" the Crown Prince asked with a smirk.

    "Both see themselves as destined heroes, the main characters of all creation. Now, as the saying goes, ''Two tigers cannot share one mountain.'' Of course, they''d rather remove the other swiftly," the Northstar Sword Devil sneered.

    "Especially Sovereign Lu, who rose as a monstrous genius. Now facing Yun Xiao, a bigger monster, he must be more anxious than anyone," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign added solemnly.

    "Let them fight," the Crown Prince stood and waved his hand. "Let''s return to the Heavenly Pce, retractpletely, not involve ourselves in anything, and even stop the incense offerings for now."

    "Understood."

    "Crown Prince," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign hesitated, then spoke, "There''s one more thing."

    "Speak." The Crown Prince turned back.

    The Dragon Tiger Sovereign frowned. "Lu Fan is greedy, cunning, unprincipled. But Yun Xiao, his intentions are the ones that could truly undermine the foundations of the Celestial Court. We must prepare for him to defeat Lu Fan, ready our trump card early."

    "Great minds think alike." The Northstar Sword Devil grinned.

    The Crown Prince smiled too. "Fine, then I''ll tighten my grip on the mortal realm a bit more."

 Chapter 676: Killing the Wicked!

    Chapter 676: Killing the Wicked!

    It was a sleepless night in the Thunder Department.

    Millions of flying talismans hurtled through the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Demons ran rampant and the Great Dao Celestial Army turned traitor. The Thunder Department fell, teetering on the brink of copse!

    In this dire moment, Lu Yao, the Champion of the Immortal Tournament, rose to the challenge. He ughtered gods and devils alike, his divine might unparalleled!

    This mythic tale unfolded not in some ancient legend, but in the revered halls of the Thunder Department...

    The words contained within these flying talismans painted the image of a young, defiant savior, stirring emotions fierce and fervid.

    Just days ago, the Divine Gateway had crowned him as Champion. Now, Yun Xiao once again dazzled the hearts of all in the Celestial Court!

    Even with limited time, he aimed to conquer thisnd of Immortals.

    At the very least, he became an unbeatable legend in the hearts of the countless lesser Immortals!

    The name Lu Yao still echoed through the Thunder Department.Finally, amidst grand calls from the Arbiters, Yun Xiao returned to the ruins of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office.

    The once grand office was no more, reduced to rubble.

    Waiting for Yun Xiao were three women!

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan stood silently in the distance, their beautiful eyes trembling as they gazed upon him, unable to look away.

    "Revvy," Yun Xiao called calmly to Pale Revenant. As the little girl trotted up to him, he gently said, "You can spit them out."

    Despite her petite form, she''d devoured a lot of things.

    "Uh-huh!" She nodded excitedly. Then, her mouth opened wide, and her face ballooned, disgorging a mass of ghostly white bones. There were still countless Life Sigils and spirits attached to these bones!

    The spirits of Immortals, demons, and devils, not yet dead, now screamed in terror, utterly aghast as they looked around.

    "Lu Yao, mercy, mercy!" On the ground littered with bones, numerous spirits formed a ghastly fire of death, crackling fiercely.

    "Maybe next time," Yun Xiao spoke, and his spirit manifested, shining with a golden light, and swiftly liberated the forlorn spirits into wisps of smoke.

    Their stories, insights, and the very traces of life¡­ in other words, their <em>Buddha''s Treasures</em> melded into Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit, bing part of him. The richness of the Buddha''s Treasure signified the strength of spirit and soul.

    Yun Xiao, even as an Anima Immortal, surpassed all others.

    The subsequent absorption of demon bones, sword bones, and Life Sigils was routine for him. In this, he was like a butcher, systematically dismantling a pig¡ªmeat, bones, offal, and blood each had their use.

    ¡°Those who die by his hand are left without a trace,¡± Yue Yin said from a distance, shuddering at the sight.

    ¡°The wicked bully and ughter the weak and the mundane, but he, he only kills the wicked, and his methods are more sinister than their deeds," Gu Suwan murmured.

    ¡°Good or evil, the heavens shall judge. I only know that on this path he treads, those who are grateful to him will always outnumber those who fear him,¡± Yue Yin said.

    ¡°By far¡­¡± Gu Suwan added.

    Take the Thunder Department, for example¡ªhaving in 10,000 Immortals, it now had millions grateful to him.

    The world was fraught with conflict and oppression, and no one could satisfy everyone. Yun Xiao simply did things his way.

    ¡°Thirty Sword Prisons, I''ve finally caught up to my Life Sigil.¡±

    After consuming the demon marrow and sword bones, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul gained 20 more Sword Prisons.

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan, ustomed to the youth¡¯s miracles, were still bewildered, their minds buzzing in confusion.

    ¡°Of course, there are more Rune Prisons¡ª32 in total.¡±

    With this, both the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and the Prison Warden Sigil dramatically increased in lethality.

    The slower growth of the Rune Prisonspared to the Sword Prisons was due to the fact that the Heaven Burial Sword Soul could also absorb demon bones.

    ¡°In the end, killing yields the greatest harvest.¡±

    After unleashing the Thunder Immortal Formation twice, Yun Xiao had umted so many True Immortal Jades he''d already lost count.

    It was more than he could ever use!

    The entire upper echelon of the Thunder Department, along with resources from thousands of Immortals, devils, and demons, were now concentrated in his hands alone.

    ¡°How do you feel?¡± Yun Xiao asked, looking down at Pale Revenant.

    ¡°I''m full, just a bit stinky,¡± Pale Revenant replied, looking down.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± With that, Yun Xiao casually ced the Prison Warden Sigil on her forehead.

    Pale Revenant hopped lightly, and the deathly aura about her slowly seeped into the Prison Warden Sigil, evaporating away.

    Soon, she regained an almost human-like appearance, devoid of the stench of death.

    To the untrained eye, one might even mistake her for a Martial Immortal.

    "Thank you." Pale Revenant''s eyes trembled as she knelt low, clutching her legs together.

    "Don''t just thank me," Yun Xiao said, grabbing her ponytail and lifting her head. "Tell me, have you spat everything out?"

    "Y-yes¡­" Pale Revenant replied nervously.

    "What about the blood?" he asked.

    "Uh... it''s hard to eat meat without the soup," she said.

    "Spit it out, put it in this Bag of Holding," he instructed.

    "Alright," Pale Revenant hesitated. She was a bit reluctant, but she knew who Yun Xiao nned to give the blood to. She crouched to the side and vomited for a while, the purified blood of the Immortals, devils, and demons gushing into the Bag of Holding, nearly filling it to the brim.

    The demon blood made up the most of it.

    Yun Xiao took the Bag of Holding and turned to the Moon Sword Goddess. "Master, if you''re free, could you help me deliver a package?"

    "Where to?" Yue Yin stepped forward, taking the heavy bag, requiring considerable strength to hold.

    "To the entrance of the devil territory of Naraka; someone will be there to receive it," Yun Xiao said.

    "Alright." Yue Yin, decisive as lightning, had already pledged her loyalty to Yun Xiao and did not pry further. She borrowed the Azure Rain Sword Vessel from Gu Suwan and set off immediately.

    Watching her depart, Yun Xiao pped his hands together, looking around at the ruins of the Divine Heaven Jade Purity Office, somewhat helplessly he said to Gu Suwan, "Foster mother, the Thunder Department''s reconstruction will need much of your attention."

    "If you wish to cultivate further, head to the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau; that pagoda is still intact," Gu Suwan said, her voice trembling slightly as she stood before him like a young maiden.

    "Storm clouds are brewing; indeed, it''s time to settle down a bit." Yun Xiao looked toward the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, his eyes sparkling with the vast gains he harbored.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At the entrance of Naraka, the ck and white celestial energies swirled into a yin-yang fish, ancient and continuously spinning.

    The Azure Rain Sword Vessel stopped at a point in the fractured Celestial Sourcecore, and Yue Yin concealed herself there, waiting.

    "Greetings, Moon Sword Goddess," a seductive voice called out from the mist ahead before long.

    Yue Yin opened her eyes to see a woman about seven feet tall floating amidst the clouds, her striking figure reminding her of her talented junior sister Cao Shuo. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, the difference was palpable, for this was a devilish woman, her flesh and allure entirely distinct.

    With blood-red eyes and dragon horns, she exuded an exotic charm, her waist-to-hip ratio more pronounced, exuding power... Crucially, she was a beautiful and seductive young girl,cking the older sister aura of Cao Shuo.

    Just one nce stirred difort in Yue Yin, for she did not fear Cao Shuo; she dreaded the young, beautiful, and exceptionally talented¡ªthe very kind that this devilish woman represented, potentially a true match for Yun Xiao.

    "What is your name?" Yue Yin asked.

    "You can call me the War Princess," the devilish woman replied.

    "Hmm." At a loss for words, Yue Yin tossed the Bag of Holding toward the devilish woman and said, "If there''s nothing else, I''ll be leaving."

    "Goodbye." The devilish woman smiled.

    "Goodbye." Yue Yin turned and stepped onto the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    "Why does he also, like Lu Fan, have ties with the devils of Naraka?" Yue Yin wondered, unable to grasp this connection. "Never mind, it''s not my ce to ask."

    A sense of defeat washed over her, dispelling her concerns as she quietly departed.

    Meanwhile, the War Princess watched her until the sword vessel disappeared.

    She then snorted, "You really do get around, leaving attachments everywhere."

    "What nonsense, she''s my swordsmanship master," a voice within her, the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, retorted.

    "Can''t you see, she''s alreadypletely devoted to you?" the War Princess argued.

    Yun Xiao was speechless. "Don''t start. Let''s not bring up what should be left alone; she merely fears me, far from truly acknowledging me."

    "No, you''re wrong about women; she''s already devoted."

    "Enough, it''s none of your concern. Find a ce; I need to refine the Mortal Dust Devil Blood," Yun Xiao said impatiently.

    "Always in a rush?" The War Princess bit her lip, thoroughly annoyed by him. She turned and entered the devil territory of Naraka.

    In a world shrouded in a haze of devilish fog, she plunged into a deep valley, took out the Bag of Holding, and began her blood refinement cultivation...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Alright," Pale Revenant hesitated. She was a bit reluctant, but she knew who Yun Xiao nned to give the blood to. She crouched to the side and vomited for a while, the purified blood of the Immortals, devils, and demons gushing into the Bag of Holding, nearly filling it to the brim.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 677: A Path of Ascension!

    Chapter 677: A Path of Ascension!

    "The fact that the Thunder Immortal Formation didn''t obliterate everything outright this time around is more of a good thing than a bad thing. Now, nothing will go to waste."

    After Yun Xiao and Pale Revenant absorbed their share, all the blood was saved for the War Princess.

    Utilizing the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, the War Princess transformed an immense amount of blood from the in devils, demons, and Immortals into pure Mortal Dust Devil Blood. She gathered it within her body, constantly fostering the growth and advancement of her own vitality.

    Among some of the blood absorbed, some contained Seeds of Creations, enhancing her innate talents.

    Undoubtedly, the War Princess was now a giant blood bag, her vitality astonishing.

    Of course, being a devil with a physiqueparable to a demon, mere vitality wasn''t enough¡ªshe needed to temper her body to maximize her advantages.

    The War Princess had two methods to forge her seven-foot frame.

    First, like Moon Fairy, she used Deste Essence to temper her constitution.

    Second, she employed the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, burning her Mortal Dust Devil Blood to refine her body.This dual approach deepened the effects.

    Her physical potential might not match Moon Fairy''s Divine Destion Physique, but at the very least, it surpassed Yun Xiao''s own Primordial Martial Dao. It was also far superior to Cao Shuo¡¯s physique, which Yun Xiao had forcibly created through the Yin-Yang Primordial Thunder Furnace.

    In short, in terms of celestial power capacity, the Primordial Void surpassed the Mortal Dust, which in turn surpassed the Divine Destion. And the reverse was true, when it came to each technique''s impact on the flesh and blood.

    As for the Buddha''s Treasure Art ability to enhance spiritual power, it stoodpletely independent from the Primordial Void, Mortal Dust, and Divine Destion.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In a valley within the Celestial Devil Abyss, a viscous mist of blood churned and roiled in the sky.

    The Mortal Dust Devil Blood formed a crimson storm, swirling around the War Princess'' tall, fiery figure.

    Then, after a long time, the pervasive blood mist merged entirely into that alluring shadow.

    Under a dim glow, the figure rose, her skin flush red, her face and waist dyed as if she had indulged in much wine.

    "The blood of over 3,000 demon, devil, and Immortal powerhouses¡­ It was enough to blitz through several major realms, forge a golden astral body for the Mortal Dust Spirit, and reach the Golden Immortal Realm¡­" the War Princess muttered in a daze.

    The cultivation realms for demons and devils in the Third Dao Tribtion were quite simr to humans.

    Although within the Celestial Devil Abyss, the Golden Immortal Realm was termed the Golden Devil Realm, in truth, there was no difference.

    "You have me to thank for that, nurturing the Mortal Dust Devil Heart through you¡­" Yun Xiao dered irritably.

    Whether it was Moon Fairy or the War Princess, the one behind the wheel was Yun Xiao himself. Otherwise, with the War Princess'' experience and enlightenment,cking a strong Dao Heart, how could she have broken through so swiftly with mere blood refinement?

    As for the appearance of the War Princess'' spirit¡­ Through the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, Yun Xiao gazed at the Mortal Dust Spirit nestled within the heart of the War Princess... It was an amalgam of his own mortal self and the War Princess!

    How to put it? It somewhat resembled a child born between Yun Xiao and the War Princess, genderless and peculiar.

    Yet, once the spirit manifested, this Mortal Dust Spirit would transform!

    It would morph into a blend of the Creator Immortal and the War Princess, key being, its astral body would sprout a thick coat of red hair, cloaking its entire form, turning into a Red-Haired Immortal Deity!

    This spirit, born from the soul of the War Princess, naturally bore her characteristics. She couldmand and manifest it too. However, the cultivation source was still Yun Xiao''s Blood Base.

    This spirit also was anchored to the Blood Base; should the Blood Base move, the Mortal Dust Spirit would follow suit.

    The same held true for Moon Fairy.

    "Really..." the War Princess pouted, slightly annoyed, "Are you insinuating that I¡¯m not smart?"

    "I''m stating it inly," Yun Xiao said.

    "You blunt asshole..." the War Princess muttered under her breath, biting her lip, "With your terrible temperament, I really don''t know why so many women like you."

    "Don''t you?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I wish this Blood Base were mine, and I were 180,000,000 miles away from you," she replied.

    "A 180 million miles away, huh? That''s not too far; I''d get there in a blink of an eye."

    "Get lost..."

    The War Princess didn''t even want to deal with him. Yet, in her heart, she understood better; Yun Xiao was more admirable than she imagined, otherwise, why would she dare to bicker with him?

    Standing up, the War Princess twisted her body, the vast ocean-like Mortal Dust Devil Blood within her granting the strength to shatter the Primordial Ruins with a single punch, and under the refinement of the Blood Cmity, her fleshly body was also naturally strengthened...

    It was as if she was constantly, effortlessly gaining strength while doing nothing andying in bed.

    "Good thing he still needs me to maneuver the body in battle, otherwise, all of this would have nothing to do with me," the War Princess thought to herself. "Hmm?"

    Just then, Yun Xiao asked her to keep it down.

    "Use your spirit to look to the east," he instructed.

    "Understood." The War Princess'' spirit, unmanifested, headed eastward. Soon after, in that direction, she spotted a devil.

    "Do you recognize him?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "No, but he seems pretty badly injured. He''s barely clinging to life, with wounds all covered by blood serpents," she reported.

    "It''s the Shadow Devil," Yun Xiao said. "This is your chance to get close to the Devil Eye. Approach him, and then say what I''ve told you to."

    "Got it!" The War Princess felt no pressure at all. Her life could be summed up in a phrase¡ª<em>No need for brains</em>. She grew stronger by simply lying t, and she did whatever he asked without thinking.

    Her Yin Devil form soared into the air, heading east.

    Before long, sheid eyes on the Shadow Devil.

    His legs were severed, his body charred, lying on the ground, barely clinging to life.

    "Lord Xiu." The War Princess hurried over, her face showing concern as she asked, "How did you get so gravely injured?"

    The Shadow Devil Xiu opened his eyes, puzzled. He nced at her and said, "Do you know me?"

    "Lord Xiu''s name is known to all in the Celestial Devil Abyss," she replied. Then, slightly nervous, she added, "Forgive me, Lord Xiu. I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Yao Yao, from the Dark Yin Devil Sect, a Yin Devil."

    "Enough with the introductions. I can already tell you''re a Yin Devil!" Xiu said, his eyes beginning to ze over. Clenching his teeth, he said, "Stop talking, and take me to the great Devil Eye!"

    After speaking, his breath weakened, as if he had entered a dormant state, losing all sound.

    His wounds began to slowly heal, and his body coalesced into a ck spherical form.

    "Take him," Yun Xiao said.

    "How should I carry him? I don''t want to touch him," the War Princess whispered.

    "This is the Shadow Devil''s dormant state. His spirit has fallen into a deep slumber. Just stuff him in a and go," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "That makes sense... But why does he trust you so much?" the War Princess asked.

    "He doesn¡¯t trust you; it''s just that here in the Celestial Devil Abyss, no devil would rob him while he''s down. He''s a favored one before the Devil Eye," Yun Xiao exined.

    "What exactly is the Devil''s Eye?" the War Princess asked as sheted the Shadow Devil with a blood.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "You''ll see it with your own eyes soon."

    "Always keeping secrets." The War Princess rolled her eyes.

    She had spent her time in the Celestial Devil Abyss, brushing up on its lore and forging her identity. Now, with her power somewhat secured, it was time to try prating the inner circle of power in this territory

    Meanwhile, Moon Fairy had hitched a fast ride with the Lunar Demon Cavern, and on this front... honestly, Yun Xiao was reluctant to let the War Princess trade on her looks to get by.

    So, the progress here was slower, needing Yun Xiao''s direct intervention to refine the blood of those demons, devils, and Immortals.

    As for Moon Fairy, well, his body double could handle most things that came his way¡­ Of course, he still had his limits, like the Great Mother; that was a supremely decaying corpse.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    So, the War Princess dragged the Shadow Devil, crossing the dimnds and rivers of the Celestial Devil Abyss, making her way to the core of this realm.

    "This ce feels oppressive," the War Princess mused, a hint of sorrow in her voice. "It''s as if the world might crumble at any moment."

    She saw the devils of this ce as her kin, struggling to survive in such chaos, and it pained her.

    "That''s why they covet the Great Dao Celestial Court," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Why should your human realms naturally possess betternds? If the devils are strong, they should get to im a turn," the War Princess retorted, biting her lip.

    Yun Xiao paused, then said, "You have your logic, but the reality is that you serve a human now."

    "Stop it, you''re not even human," the War Princess shot back.

    "Oh? And what, pray tell, do you think I am?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "You''re a monster," she snorted.

    Yun Xiao almost thought she had stumbled upon the truth¡ªthat he wasn''t purely human.

    Was he really human? Even Yun Xiao himself was not sure.

    He looked out over this gray world and its diverse devils, then said, "Compared to the Celestial Devil Abyss, the Celestial Demon Abyss is far worse. That ce is like purgatory, reeking of decay, where all demons are but fodder for the Great Mother. Here, at least, the devils have a will of their own."

    "That ce is that vile?" Withoutparison, the War Princess felt this ce might not be so bad after all.

    At least here, the celestial energy was rich, birthing countless celestial devils. The resources here far surpassed that of the mortal realm.

    "If one mustpare, then truly no ce under heaven is ideal," Yun Xiao said.

    "Will you eventually destroy the Celestial Devil Abyss?" the War Princess asked.

    "Why would I destroy this ce?" Yun Xiao queried.

    "Because it houses your enemies," she pressed.

    Yun Xiao shook his head, saying, "That''s not necessarily true."

    "How so?" the War Princess asked, puzzled.

    "The higher-ups of the Celestial Court, the ones pushing the incense offerings¡­ those people are my number one enemies.

    "Then there''s the Chaos Sovereign, who sees me as a threat to his reign. He''s the second on the list.

    "And the Great Mother of the Celestial Demon Abyss, her existence condemns all demons to a hellish existence, and she also forbids me from cultivating corpse demons, making her number three.

    "As for the Celestial Devil Abyss... sending you to meet the Devil Eye is to determine whether this ce will be my enemy or ally. Currently, there are no conflicts of interest between me and the Celestial Devil Abyss." Yun Xiao spoke earnestly.

    Who wouldn''t want more allies? The first three enemies were entrenched; reconciliation was impossible!

    So, Yun Xiao was not inclined to hastily make endless enemies. He was willing to give the other side a chance! At least, he had not heard of the devils engaging in incense offerings.

    "Okay," the War Princess said, a spark of resolve in her eyes. "Then, I know what I must do."

    "Let¡¯s hear it," Yun Xiao said.

    "To prevent them from bing your enemies as much as I can, of course. I am a devil, marked by my n, loving the devil blood that flows within me, and I too hope for a path of ascension for all my kin," she dered passionately.

 Chapter 678: Devil Eye!

    Chapter 678: Devil Eye!

    "Hard to believe, but you''re quite softhearted aren''t you?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "How can it be softhearted to wish for less warfare and more understanding in the world, to hope for a better life for the ordinary folk?" the War Princess countered.

    "Fair point. But you''re mistaken about one thing," Yun Xiao said.

    "Which is?" she asked.

    "The blood coursing through you is no longer that of your parents'' devil lineage¡ªit¡¯s mine."

    "Get lost! You''re absolutely revolting," she huffed, annoyanceced in her tone.

    Yet, inexplicably, the more the two of them bickered, the sweeter she felt inside. She knew that Yun Xiao never quarreled like this with Zhao Xuanran and that naive little white tiger girl. He seemed to specifically like teasing and bickering like an old couple with her. Would it feel strange, she wondered, if one day these sorts of bantering stopped?

    Perhaps it might. Her thoughts wandered.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao¡¯s chilling voice snapped her out of her reverie. "We''re here," he announced.

    "Here?"

    As the War Princess wove through the mountains, she gazed toward the horizon. There, it seemed a gigantic crater had formed at the earth¡¯s edge. It resembled a volcanic mouth, above which hung a thick cloud of ck and red mist.

    Around this volcanic mouth, one could vaguely make out numerous devils¡ªYang Devils, Yin Devils, Shadow Devils, Tree Devils, Ice Devils, and more. It was a bizarre and diverse throng.

    Among them, the Yin Devils bore the closest resemnce to humans. And so, it was the Yin Devils that were mostmonly seen in human society, especially among the elite, who used them as maidservants to disy their status.

    Irrespective of theirbat abilities, the Yin Devilsmanded a high price. For this very reason, they were shunned within the devil society, relegated to low status and almost expelled from the Celestial Devil Abyss.

    The Yin Devil Tribe chosen by the War Princess was an outcast group. They were isted, without power or prominence, excluded from mainstream events and gradually forgotten.

    Now, the Yin Devils were a rare sight within the Celestial Devil Abyss.

    So, as the War Princess approached the crater, several eerie figures suddenly materialized before her eyes.

    "Yin Devil, halt!"

    The ghostly figures slowly materialized, revealing seven Shadow Devils floating in the air, their faces obscured by dark mist. They stared down at the War Princess, their voices harsh.

    "This is the ce where the great Devil Eye is to awaken. Your tainted Yin Devil Blood has no ce here. Keep your distance."

    The War Princess had just expressed her hope to secure a better future for her kind, and now her own kin was shunning her.

    To approach the Devil Eye, the War Princess suppressed her anger and replied, "I merely came upon Lord Xiu grievously wounded, barely clinging to life. Hemanded me to bring him to the great Devil Eye. How could I dare approach otherwise?"

    "Lord Xiu?"

    The Shadow Devils'' expressions shifted.

    This was a top ten powerhouse among their kind.

    The War Princess had already discarded the, and turning back, she handed over the orb that Lord Xiu had transformed into. "Here is Lord Xiu."

    "He''s in a dormant state!"

    The faces of the Shadow Devils grew even grimmer.

    They hurried forward, cautiously taking Lord Xiu into their arms. "We had no idea Lord Xiu was so severely injured!"

    "It must have been in the Great Dao Celestial Realm¡­"

    "Quick, take him to the Great Devil Eye!"

    Several Shadow Devils turned and left immediately.

    Only a male and female Shadow Devil remained.

    The female Shadow Devil nced at the War Princess, her tone slightly softer, but still dismissive. "Alright, you¡¯ve delivered him. You can leave now."

    "Wait," the male Shadow Devil, after observing the War Princess for a moment, his eyes betraying a hint of change, said, "Lord Xiu is not awake. Come with us and tell the great Devil Eye everything you witnessed."

    "Is it appropriate for a Yin Devil?" the female Shadow Devil questioned.

    Due to past incidents where Yin Devils were defiled by humans and produced mixed offspring, they were nearly a symbol of impurity within the Celestial Devil Abyss.

    The devils, believing themselves superior to humans, naturally couldn''t bear such things.

    "Her lineage is pure, just a young adult. It should be fine," the male Shadow Devil stated.

    "A young adult?" The female Shadow Devil looked at the War Princess with displeasure. "A young adult who looks like that, how do others stand a chance?"

    "Born with the exact look humans prize most in their ceremonial vessels!" the female Shadow Devil cursed inwardly. But since the male Shadow Devil clearly held a higher rank, she refrained from furtherment.

    "What is your name?" the male Shadow Devil approached, his eyes cold and piercing, as he stared at the War Princess.

    "Yao Yao," the War Princess replied.

    "I am Mo Yang, a Rank 4 Devil General," the male Shadow Devil dered.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The War Princess bowed her head. "Hello, sir."

    "Follow me. Once inside, speak only when spoken to, and do not stray more than 30 feet from me," Mo Yang instructed coldly.

    "Yes," she replied.

    With that, Mo Yang turned and headed towards the crater.

    "He''s taken a liking to you," Yun Xiao said.

    "Drop dead," the War Princess snapped back, already irritated; hisment only fueled her annoyance.

    "Don¡¯t be angry. Go and meet the Devil Eye," Yun Xiao coaxed, knowing she was upset and ceasing his teasing.

    After all, who would enjoy being discriminated against?

    Being segregated andbeled as tainted by her own kin was profoundly unsettling.

    The War Princess held her breath in silent protest, her eyes fixed on the Shadow Devils ahead and the myriad other devils gathering near the crater.

    "The Devil Eye has awakened!"

    Suddenly, an electrifying chorus of shouts erupted above the crater.

    The surrounding mountains thrummed with activity!

    Hundreds of thousands of devils converged from all directions, crowding around the crater¡¯s edges, revering it in a spectacle akin to the Celestial Demon Abyss'' adoration of the Great Mother¡ªyet distinctly different. While fear was evident in the eyes of the gathered demons at the Celestial Court, here, it was supreme adoration that filled the eyes of the devils.

    "Devil Eye?"

    Seizing the moment as the Shadow Devils bowed in worship, the War Princess nced into the crater.

    A tremor ran through her.

    Below, instead of an abyss, there was a colossal blood-red eye. As she looked, its lid red open!

    A beam of ck and red light shot forth, illuminating the mists of the Great Dao Celestial Realm with a twilight glow.

    On the pupil of that eyeball, dozens of ck serpents twisted together, forming a massive <em>Devil</em> character!

    Was this the great Devil Eye?

    "What kind of life form is this? It doesn''t seem rted to any devil," Yun Xiao remarked, puzzled.

    "No... Though it''s just an eye, I can feel that it''s a devil. The blood that flows within its eye is the same as ours," the War Princess exined.

    "The blood in your veins is mine," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Oh, will you ever stop?" the War Princessughed in exasperation.

    Her yful scolding seemed to go unnoticed as everyone''s attention was fixed on the Devil Eye, and nobody paid her any mind.

    All the devils were worshiping the Devil Eye.

    "Xiu."

    Suddenly, an ancient voice echoed from within the Devil Eye. It sounded exceedingly old, as if it could perish at any moment, like the friction of wood on wood.

    "Great Devil Eye, he is here." Several Shadow Devils hurriedly pushed Xiu forward.

    A beam of red light shot from the Devil Eye, illuminating Xiu. Under its glow, his flesh began to regenerate.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>He revived, gasping heavily, and knelt before the Devil Eye, saying, "Thank you, great Devil Eye."

    "Have you reached a conclusion?" the Devil Eye inquired.

    Xiu shuddered. He remained silent, looking down until his gazended on the eyeball, and then he whispered, "I have."

    "Speak."

    Xiu gritted his teeth and said, "We can join the demons and Lu Fan against the Celestial Court. But we must not oppose Lu Yao under any circumstances!"

    "If you say this, no one will believe you," the Devil Eye responded gravely.

    "I know, but this is my judgment." Xiu sighed. "I understand the current situation forces the Celestial Devil Abyss to act against their will, but the terror of that young man is beyond myprehension. Even if all the devils see this as a chance to defy fate and change their destiny, I still hope, great Devil Eye, that you can trust my judgment."

    "Hmm." The Devil Eye''s massive eyelid fluttered shut, then it suddenly asked, "Was it a Yin Devil who brought you back?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 679: Sanguine Phantom!

    Chapter 679: Sanguine Phantom!

    "Yin Devil?" Xiu had never expected that the great Devil Eye would bring up that Yin Devil girl.

    He was merely badly injured, not dying. And it didn''t matter who came to assist him, nor was it worth the Devil Eye''s personal mention.

    In spite of his confusion, Xiu respectfully replied, "Yes, it was a Yin Devil girl who brought me back.

    "Summon her," the Devil Eyemanded.

    "Huh, you wish to meet her¡­?" Xiu grew more puzzled.

    A beam of light shed through the enormous Devil Eye, illuminating Xiu. Although the Devil Eye did not respond, his intent was clear; Xiu was to cease his needless babbling.

    "Yes!"

    This Shadow Devil, akin to a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court, turned back to the heavens, shouting to one of his kin. "Mo Yang, bring that Yin Devil girl here."

    Mo Yang, a Rank 4 devil officer, thought he had misheard. Just as he began to question, Xiu sternly said, "Hurry!"

    "Understood." Mo Yang hastily turned and made his way outside. Soon, he located the War Princess in a corner.

    "Come with me, Xiu wishes to see you." Mo Yang''s tone was firm as he reached to grab the War Princess''s slender arm.

    The War Princess pursed her lips, her figure swaying effortlessly to dodge his grasp, and she moved forward a few steps.

    "Hmm? What are you standing there for?" the War Princess asked, looking back at Mo Yang.

    Mo Yang nced at his empty hand, confusion rising within him, but it was quickly swallowed by indignation.

    "An insignificant Yin Devil girl. Who''s she trying to fool, acting so innocent and pure?"

    Mo Yang did not voice his thoughts; after all, this was Xiu''smand, and it needed swiftpletion.

    "Let''s go!"

    He coldly swept his gaze over the War Princess and led the way. With him leading, the crowd of devils parted, allowing her to approach the Devil Eye.

    "Is Mo Yang bringing that Yin Devil girl?"

    "What''s he ying at?"

    The crowd murmured, watching as Mo Yang presented the War Princess before Xiu.

    "Xiu, I''ve brought her," Mo Yang said, bowing.

    "The great Devil Eye wishes to see you. Remember, speak and act with caution," Xiu solemnly advised the War Princess.

    As he spoke, the dozens of Shadow Devils around them could hardly believe their ears.

    "I understand." The War Princess nodded.

    She and Yun Xiao weren''t sure why the Devil Eye wanted to meet her, but they were ready to face whatever came their way.

    Following Xiu, the War Princess finally entered the crater, emerging into the light amidst a sea of astonished onlookers!

    The surrounding Shadow Devils exchanged bewildered nces.

    A female Shadow Devil named Mo Xi nudged Mo Yang and whispered coolly, "What¡¯s this? Why''s that little girl being graced by the great Devil Eye''s presence?"

    "Who knows." Mo Yang shrugged, the image of his failed attempt to capture the War Princess still lingering in his mind. He snickered to himself. Given his status, it would be an honor for most Yin Devils to even lick his boots. Where did she get off thinking like she was above him?

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Who is that?"

    "Looks like a Yin Devil girl!"

    As Xiu appeared with the War Princess above the crater of the Devil Eye, all eyes turned to her.

    The dark crimson light of the Devil Eye shone upon her delicate form, casting her in a radiant glow that made her even more striking.

    She was a beauty indeed! But in a race that revered power, beauty was but a contemptible advantage; the more beautiful, the more likely she was to be a ything for the powerful.

    Sought after, yet trampled upon. All these so-called <em>celestial</em> devils scrutinized the War Princess with judgmental eyes.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    At that moment, all the brilliance of the Devil Eye focused on her, making her shine even brighter!

    Its aged voice, unexpectedly tender, asked, "Child, what is your name?"

    This question stirred a wave of incredulous murmurs.

    Why would the Devil Eye show such warmth to a lowly outcast who would serve as nothing more than a ything?

    "Great Devil Eye, my name is Yao Yao," the War Princess replied, neither servile nor overbearing.

    Truth be told, in this devildom full of powerful devils, she felt slightly nervous. Fortunately, she had the greatest support she could ever wish for in her heart!

    "That¡¯s a sweet name." The Devil Eye unexpectedly chuckled, then continued, "You have... saved Xiu in a timely manner, contributing to our kind. I''ll grant you a small gift for your merit."

    At these words, a ripple of murmurs spread among the crowd.

    Everyone felt a bit odd about it. It was such a trivial matter, yet it warranted a personal reward from the Devil Eye?

    Even if the reward were but a de of grass, in this setting, it seemed a high honor indeed.

    "Is the Devil Eye trying to force themon folk to ept Yin Devils?"

    "Sorry, I can''t ept this tribe that breeds and mixes among the human race."

    The celestial devils whispered among themselves, their voices low,ints confined to their thoughts.

    They believed not even a de of grass should be awarded.

    Yet amidst this murmuring crowd, within the Devil Eye, a surge of bloodlight gathered, tearing open from the eyeball to form a torrent of crimson that, in front of the War Princess, slowly coalesced into a dark crimson war cleaver.

    Before the sword even fully formed, the War Princess could feel its terrifying power¡ªa raw, ancient force of brutality and bloodshed, born of countless battlefields, forged in the blood of warriors.

    "What is this thing? It feelsparable to the Supreme Evesting Thunder Cauldron." Yun Xiao, within the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, was slow to grasp the power of this dark crimson de.

    The noisy surroundings suddenly fell into an absolute silence as the war cleaver took shape, drawing all eyes upon it.

    The War Princess nced around, noting the hundreds of thousands of celestial devils frozen in ce, their eyes zed with frost, unable to move.

    The word <em>incredulous</em> didn''t begin to describe their astonishment.

    In this stunned silence, the war cleaver took its final shape¡ªa domineering weapon, six feet long, as wide as Yun Xiao''s Sovereign Sword at its broadest point, four inches wide, with ck and crimson blood threads woven throughout its body. Nine ck copper rings hung from its spine.

    Most striking was its hilt, where an eye, restless and roving, mirrored the Devil Eye on a smaller scale.

    From this hilt alone, Yun Xiao and the War Princess knew the immense value of this war cleaver.

    "It bears the Lesser Devil Eye!"

    "It''s Sanguine Phantom!"

    Upon seeing this legendary artifact of the Celestial Devil Abyss, all of the onlookers were stunned. For most of these devils, it was their first time seeing this kind of celestial weapon in person.

    Excitement and awe filled the air. The Sanguine Phantom was highly coveted and revered!

    However, the circumstances of its appearance were somewhat peculiar. What did the Devil Eye mean by this gesture?

    "It can''t be what we''re thinking, right? How could it be?"

    "Just bringing Xiu back, any devil could have done that."

    "Joking aside, the lives of 100 Xius wouldn¡¯t be enough for the Sanguine Phantom... that''s a Lesser Devil Eye!"

    Not only did the celestial devils think so, even Yun Xiao himself couldn''t believe it. He was on guard, suspecting the Devil Eye might have discovered something, perhaps plotting to directly y the War Princess.

    Truth be told, after spending so much time together, Yun Xiao had grown fond of her and loathed the thought of her dying.

    In that moment of internal chaos for the onlooker, the Devil Eye, controlling the Sanguine Phantom, presented the domineering, blood-soaked, and divinely majestic crimson war cleaver to the War Princess.

    "Child, take this little de. Don''t worry. It''s just some old thing I had lying around."

    As the words of the Devil Eye spread, the crowd seemed topletely freeze! Every celestial devil stood as still as an ice sculpture. They were certain they had seen wrong, heard wrong, or even thought they were dreaming, to witness such absurdity.

    How absurd was this situation? It was like watching an Emperor reward his kingdom to a little girl for putting away trash in a bin!

    "What¡¯s going on?" Xiu, standing closeby, nearly choked on his own blood. He knew best himself that his life was hardly that valuable. Even with 1,000,000 guts, he''d never dared to covet the Sanguine Phantom!

    Yet, the Devil Eye calling it an old thing it had lying around? If that were true, every other weapon in the Celestial Devil Abyss wouldn''t even be fit for the trash disposal!

    "It''s not fair..." Xiu''s voice was hoarse. He scratched his head with an awkward chuckle, "Great Devil Eye, this joke of yours, haha..."

    "Child, won¡¯t you ept it?" The Devil Eye gazed at the War Princess. Its kindly words caused internal bleeding among the countless celestial devils.

    The atmosphere was so charged that even if the War Princess was clueless, Yun Xiao caught on quickly, urging, "Hurry, take it."

    "The problem is, this might be a hot potato..." the War Princess muttered, "And it definitely has recognized something special in me."

    "Just take it if you''re told to, the burn won''t be on my hand," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "You son of a¡­!"

    Though she wanted to strangle him, she could only think about it.

    The War Princess wasn''t one for deep strategies. Believing she had support, she steeled her heart, reached out to grasp the hilt of the war cleaver, and knelt to the Devil Eye, her voice filled with emotion, "Thank you for this amazing gift! This lowly girl is deeply honored!"

    Interestingly, the Lesser Devil Eye on the sword hilt swiveled, its dark red eyes fixating on the War Princess with apparent fondness. And so, the Sanguine Phantom offered no resistance, obediently submitting to her control.

    Truly, her tall stature wielding the six-foot crimson war cleaver was a sight of fierce authority, radiating a spicy andmanding aura¡ªabsolutely regal!

    The War Princess had be the War Empress!

    Feeling the power of the Sanguine Phantom, the War Princess held the war cleaver aloft with both hands, proiming to the Devil Eye, "I vow to fulfill this mission, to harness the value of this cleaver, and help the Celestial Devil Abyss reach new heights!"

    Had she not spoken, it might have been better. Her deration set off a mental explosion among many celestial devils.

    Even with the Devil Eye present, they struggled to contain their emotions, their devilish nature far more vtile than human nature.

    "Shut your mouth!"

    "Do you even realize the level of this celestial weapon? It''s Upper Divine Heaven grade, the highest in this realm!"

    "You, a mere Yin Devil, help the Celestial Devil Abyss reach new heights? Why don''t you ascend to the heavens first yourself?"

    "Go back to selling yourself in the red light district!"

    Devils loved war and revered the brave and heroic; they cared not for looks, but for valor!

    In the Celestial Devil Abyss, hierarchy was not rigid; n power and unwritten rules were few, everything depended on absolute power¡­!

 Chapter 680: Cull the Wicked and Vile!

    Chapter 680: Cull the Wicked and Vile!

    It didn''t matter if the great Devil Eye bestowed that peerless treasure itself. If the owner was weak, no devil would ever submit!

    Once the misgivings started being voiced, the scenepletely spiraled out of control, and the air was thick with discontent.

    ¡°We request the great Devil Eye to reim his gift!¡±

    ¡°Please reconsider. She''s unworthy!¡±

    In that moment, all the celestial devils fell to their knees, some so ovee with grief that tears fell, their foreheads touching the ground in supplication.

    It was clear then, their reverence for the Devil Eye was profound, and it was precisely because of this that their conflict and turmoil were even greater.

    ¡°A mere useless old de; it''s my personal possession. I decide to whom it is awarded,¡± the Devil Eye said, its voice calm, yet carrying a hint of fatigue. After a pause, it dered, ¡°The matter is settled. Devils should not harbor selfish desires, or they will be dealt with ording to the rules.¡±

    These words chilled the hearts of many.

    No one could understand!It was outrageous!

    Many celestial devils forcibly convinced themselves that the Devil Eye must have a deeper intent, but no matter how hard they tried, they could not ept it. It was a desecration of their sacred object!

    ¡°The future of the Celestial Devil Abyss will be determined in two days. Everyone, focus on preparing for battle,¡± the Devil Eye announced. Its gaze then dimmed as it grew visibly tired. Its eyelids drooped and slowly closed, and finally, it fell silent.

    The dark crimson twilight of the entire crater slowly faded.

    Yet, the silence persisted, and countless celestial devils watched the War Princess with cold, conflicted eyes, unable to convince themselves.

    The murmurs of ugly curses were about to erupt again.

    Then, the always silent Xiu shouted, ¡°The Devil Eye¡¯s decision has its purpose, everyone calm down. Perhaps time will give us our answers!¡±

    His words eased some of the tension. Indeed, what was the rush? If that Yin Devil girl failed to control the Sanguine Phantom, this sacred object would return. Had the Devil Eye ever disappointed them before?

    Many celestial devils thought this and gradually quelled their anger.

    But still¡­ their gaze towards the War Princess did not soften. It was more of scrutiny, waiting for her to recognize the challenge before her and retreat.

    ¡°Let me add¡­¡± Xiu said, looking around and stopping short, ¡°No one is allowed to snatch the Sanguine Phantom, or else¡­¡±

    He scanned the crowd but left the threat hanging. Regardless, everyone understood a simple truth. Everyone herecked the qualifications to possess the Sanguine Phantom; seizing it would be futile.

    If the Lesser Devil Eye did not acknowledge the owner, all efforts were vain.

    And any fool that tried to seize it and then return it to the Devil Eye would likely be met with a swift death.

    "s, we can only watch those contemptible hands desecrate the Lesser Devil Eye," a voicemented from the crowd.

    In the shadows, Mo Xi clenched her teeth, her eyes dark with brooding, "Had I known, the moment I first saw her, I should have in that wretched girl."

    "Stop your foolish talk," Mo Yang sneered. "The Devil Eye surely intends to use her for its purposes. She¡¯s but a pitiful pawn, still of some use."

    His words quickly became the epted truth among most celestial devils. She was a pawn! That was the only reasonable exnation. And so, they could hardly regard the War Princess highly.

    "What next?" Mo Xi asked.

    "Just wait!" Mo Yang sneered again. "Didn¡¯t the Chaos Sovereign say that within three days, he¡¯d have a way topletely seize the Great Dao Celestial Array? Once we take that, the Celestial Court will crumble without a fight!"

    "What about dealing with that Yin Devil bitch?" Mo Xi asked.

    "Let¡¯s see what Lord Xiu decides," Mo Yang responded.

    As they spoke, Xiu was already leading the War Princess toward them.

    Of course, this drew all the icy gazes of the celestial devils.

    "Mo Yang, this little girl has no formal rank. She''ll be part of the devil army from now on. She''ll be joining us for the time being. I''m assigning her to your tribe," Xiumanded sternly.

    "Yes, Lord Xiu." Mo Yang had anticipated this, and while examining the War Princess, a slight smirk formed on his lips.

    "Remember what I just said."

    After these words, Xiu turned and disappeared into the wind.

    Mo Yang then said, "Let''s head back to the base to rest and then prepare for battle!"

    After speaking, he looked at the War Princess and dered, "Since you¡¯ve just joined my Mo Tribe, I''m going to tell you one thing. Don''t expect special treatment just because you''re a frail Yin Devil and have received a gift from the Devil Eye, understand?"

    "Understood." The War Princess, clutching the Sanguine Phantom in her hand, answered calmly.

    "Let¡¯s go." With that, Mo Yang and the other Shadow Devils moved, and the War Princess followed.

    Their departure gradually allowed the celestial devils in the crater to slowly disperse amidst hushed discussions under the heavy atmosphere.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The so-called base was a temporary military camp before battle, and the Mo Tribe was one of the many tribes of the Shadow Devil race.

    Shadow Devils possessed exceptional stealth capabilities. They were masters of reconnaissance and assassination, and were among the top elites of the Celestial Devil Abyss, holding a very high status.

    The Mo Tribe''s status was also quite high.

    Located not far from the crater, built within a mountain gorge, the architecture was of a rugged ck style. It wasn''t as delicate as that of the Celestial Court, but it was also reinforced by celestial formations.

    By the time the War Princess arrived at the Mo Tribe, the events from the crater had already spread.

    So, the War Princess once again became the focus, subjected to the discourteous whispers of many Shadow Devils, no matter where she went.

    "They all insult and nder you, and yet, are you still determined to strive for survival and benefits for all devils?" Yun Xiao asked coldly.

    "Are you mocking me?" the War Princess countered.

    "I mean no such thing, just asking inly," Yun Xiao said.

    "Then my answer is yes, I''m willing!" the War Princess dered through clenched teeth.

    "Then aren''t you being naive? If I were you, I would''ve in them all by now, or at least cut out their tongues before trying to secure their benefits," Yun Xiao said with a chuckle.

    "You are you, and I am me," the War Princess murmured, biting her lip. "They hold such deep prejudices against Yin Devils because, in reality, we are too weak,cking the ability to protect ourselves and dragging them down. That''s why I need to prove myself and change their impression of Yin Devils."

    "How amusing. Your kind is weak, and instead of protecting you, your own devil kin discriminate against you." Yun Xiaoughed.

    "Just shut up, you''re being annoying!" the War Princess said, her head lowered, blood coursing faster through her veins.

    "I guess that''s just the nature of devils. Your race bullies the weak and fears the strong," Yun Xiao added, then fell silent.

    "Nonsense, we are at least purer than your humankind..." the War Princess began, her voice growing weaker with each word.

    She realized just then that Mo Yang had already led her into a dark chamber.

    With a thunderous sound, the female Shadow Devil, Mo Xi, closed a door reinforced with a celestial formation behind them.

    In the chamber, it was just the three of them.

    "What''s this?" The War Princess looked up, staring at this Rank 4 Devil General, who was roughly on par with a Thunder Emissary.

    Mo Yang''s lips curved slightly as his dark red eyes surveyed the War Princess. He asked with a lightugh. "As a neer to the devil army, apart from a background check, a physical examination is customary."

    "Stick to the protocol, don''t overy your part." Mo Xi approached from behind, addressing the War Princess directly. "Remove your armor, I''ll walk you through the procedure."

    "In front of him? That''s hardly appropriate." The War Princess pointed at Mo Yang.

    Cold light surged in Mo Yang''s eyes. From their initial encounter to this moment, he had confirmed that this <em>pawn</em> was truly skilled at ying the part of an aloof princess.

    Upon hearing this, Mo Xi couldn''t help butugh contemptuously. "Aren¡¯t you Yin Devils trained from childhood to serve men? Stop pretending. At such a young age, you¡¯re already quite the actor, aren¡¯t you?"

    Yun Xiao burst intoughter at these words, adding, "Wow, you devils are so refined! What ss! Better than humans, huh?"

    "Yun Xiao! Go to hell!!" The War Princess clenched her fists, her pretty face instantly flushed with rage.

    As she cursed, the Sanguine Phantom in her hand suddenly cleaved down upon Mo Xi''s head!

    <em>SLASH! </em>Mo Xi, stillughing, was suddenly split in two, turning into two clumps of blood, flying off to the sides! Even her mouth was halved, her lips trembling as they bled!

    "You!" Mo Yang, startled by this bloody spectacle, shuddered and then exploded in anger. "You dare kill a Rank 5 Devil Colonel?!"

    "Screw off! She''s lucky she only got away with that!"

    Blood dragons swirled around the War Princess, her Mortal Dust Devil blood surged, and the Sanguine Phantom in her hand howled wildly. A cold light from the Lesser Devil Eye shone in Mo Yang''s eyes, stunning him on the spot!

    <em>HACK! </em>Her de swept across, Mo Yang''s head flew into the air and then smashed onto the hilt of the Sanguine Phantom, held by the de''s edge!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Now just a head, Mo Yang''s eyes were filled with terror, looking at the War Princess in utter fear, he screamed, "You, you, you..."

    "Shut the hell up!" The War Princess pressed his head down, instantly draining the skull dry!

    <em>THUD! </em>Mo Yang''s body fell to the ground!

    Blood spread across the chamber!

    Only then did the War Princess calm down, biting her lip, she sighed, "Damn, that felt good!"

    "That''s more like it."

    From within her heart, Yun Xiao''s ghostly voice came through, "We can work and sacrifice for our own. But before that, we have to take out the trash! Who says we can¡¯t kill our own? Cull the vile and wicked, and after them, the enemy."

    "Alright, you¡¯re right, that clears my path too..." Under his persuasive guidance, the War Princess was slowly getting the hang of it. She took a deep breath and cursed, "Damn it, you sound more like a devil than I do."

    "Human and devil, there¡¯s no difference. Good and evil do not divide along the lines of race," Yun Xiao said.

    "Yes, yes, oh great benefactor Yun," the War Princess hummed. Not yet satisfied, she walked over and trampled the two halves of Mo Xi into a bloody mess, then refined his blood entirely.

    "What next?" the War Princess asked.

    "What to do? With the Sanguine Phantom in hand, you should kill those who need killing, seize what should be seized. Anyone who disobeys faces death. Use their blood as the seed money for your rise. Once you''ve gathered enough, join me in the Great Dao Celestial Realm for a real battle," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Alright..."

    Today had opened the War Princess'' eyes.

    The path of cultivation wasn''t filled with peaceful discourse among schrs. The saint who shunned even a speck of sin always suffered the most.

    In contrast, learning from Yun Xiao brought no pain, only exhration and opportunities to vent off her frustrations!

    "This is what life is about..."

    <em>BAM! </em>The War Princess, carrying Mo Yang''s shriveled head, pushed open the heavy stone door and walked outside.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, at the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, Yun Xiao was deep in meditation.

    Suddenly, someone knocked on the door; it was the voice of Yue Yin.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Yue Yin softly replied, "Empress Zhao of the Western Kunlun Pce wishes to see you."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 681: Gathering of Noble Ladies

    "Is she summoning me?"

    Upon hearing these words, Yun Xiao paused his cultivation in the Primordial Void Technique, rising to step outside.

    "Yes." Yue Yin nodded. Both she and Cao Shuo had cultivated at the Western Kunlun Pce. And now, Empress Zhao, contacting Yun Xiao through her, signaled that this was more of a personal affair than the will of the Celestial Court.

    "Does that mean I must make the long journey to the divinend of the Celestial Court?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "No need." Yue Yin pointed to the sky. "The Western Kunlun Pce can soar through the heavens, and it''s currently hovering above the Thunder Department."

    The Thunder Immortal Formation was basicallypletely spent. So, it could no longer add to Yun Xiao''sbat power for the time being.

    "What do you say? Will you go?" Yue Yin asked softly, then added, "She''s summoning you privately; it could be a trap, and you wouldn¡¯t be wrong to refuse."

    "I''ll go," Yun Xiao answered without much hesitation.

    "Aren''t you afraid of the danger?" she asked."In this Great Dao Celestial Realm, no one can kill me," Yun Xiao dered, stepping out as he added, "Let''s go and see what these celestial maidens are truly plotting."

    "Right!" Yue Yin nodded. Yun Xiao¡¯s confidence andmand also bolstered her courage. She bowed slightly, following him with reverence, their roles of master and disciple seemingly reversed.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Launching from the pagoda of the Myriad Divine Thunder Bureau, the two soared up to the heavens on their Sovereign Swords.

    Only then did Yue Yin count the Sword Prisons on Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Soul¡ªa total of 30, equal to her own, striking more awe into her.

    It took her 300 years to form her 30 Sword Prisons.

    Yet, Yun Xiao had managed to do the same over a single night!

    No one understood the terror of this divine prodigy better than her and Gu Suwan.

    "The Chaos Sovereign, who traversed a path in mere decades that others took centuries, was already a supreme marvel of the Heavenly Pce. And now, this young master has done it in mere days."

    If Lu Fan was dozens of times the genius of those in the Heavenly Pce, how many times was Yun Xiao beyond Lu Fan?

    Yue Yin could only think that while others had defied the heavens, Yun Xiao seemed to embody the heavenly path itself¡ªperhaps be even above it!

    Cultivators might view such a rapid rise as squeezing potential, with a possibly limited ultimate height, but Yue Yin already felt distinctly that Yun Xiao wasn''t merely squeezing his potential.

    Every step he took was ordinary, and thereiny the terror.

    "The more I understand, the more I revere him," Yue Yin thought as she watched the young man before her, not merely a man but an incarnation of the heavenly dao, the will of the world itself.

    Amid such musings, the two Sword Immortals sliced through the clouds above the Thunder Department and beheld the pce ensconced within a burning sea of clouds¡ªa sprawling, boundless structure that flew through the heavens.

    Grand and majestic, the pce was shrouded in celestial mist, with colorful lights fluttering about, and even from afar, the melody of heavenly music intertwined with the fragrance of flowers filled the air. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Cranes glided gently overhead, springs murmured, and clouds rolled leisurely by, painting a scene of tranquil peace that soothed the soul. Yet beneath that peacey a solemn reverence, for this was the pce of Empress Zhao, a matriarch of the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    "Yue Yin and the Immortal Champion have arrived."

    As Yun Xiao and Yue Yinnded on the white jade tform before the Western Kunlun Pce, a soft female voice enveloped them, and a path formed before Yun Xiao¡ªcrafted from countless dancing flower petals, guiding him forward.

    Yun Xiao stepped into the sea of flowers, moving toward the grandest of the pces, embraced by the whirl of multicolored petals. He had been to the divinend of the Celestial Court before, and seen the Immortal Asylum behind the Western Kunlun Pce. But this floating pce was, in truth, a part of the Western Kunlun Complex, free from any presence of the Immortal Asylum.

    Here, it was purely a realm of tender sanctuary, where the highest echelons of female Immortals resided, all high in status and naturally, older, much like Yue Yin and Cao Shuo, epitomizing sessful women in the Celestial Court.

    Approaching the pce, Yun Xiao could smell a myriad of fragrances, a blooming garden''s array, revealing the many distinguished women within. High status often meant older age.

    Yun Xiao walked the floral path to a pce named Dowager Hall, whose doors swung open automatically as he approached, adorned with phoenix carvings symbolizing maternal power.

    Inside, the glow of pink candlelight filled the hall, illuminating every female Immortal in an exceptionally delicate light, their skin gleaming with radiance.

    "Come in."

    Seated above on a phoenix throne, Empress Zhao wore a long, flowing gown of gold and ck, her smile gentle, her demeanor regal and lofty,manding both awe andpassion, holy and invible, shining upon the mortal realm like the moon above.

    Her sublime beauty was unique and rare, a presence unmatched within the Celestial Court, making her truly singr.

    Normally, any male Immortal, except perhaps the White Emperor, would approach Empress Zhao with reverence and humility.

    Yun Xiao did not. His gaze was clear, devoid of any offense, certainly free of any self-doubt. He saw her straightforwardly, stripped of her maternal crown, as a strong, ordinary Immortal woman.

    "Lu Yao pays his respects to Empress Zhao and the esteemed Immortals," Yun Xiao said, neither haughty nor humble, giving due respect before waiting to see which y would unfold.

    As Yun Xiao spoke, his eyes casually swept the surroundings. Around the Dowager Hall sat hundreds of women, each a celestial beauty of breathtaking grace, each distinct in charm and allure, overwhelming to behold.

    They shared amon trait¡ªnobility and exaltation, clearly of high status, and among them, some exuded an intense presence, not mere consorts but powerful dignitaries of the Celestial Court.

    Most, like Yue Yin, were of a mature age, ripe with grace and unparalleled elegance.

    Yet, a few were younger, scarcely a century old, considered youthful maidens in their realm.

    Even if married, they were in the prime of their celestial youth.

    As Yun Xiao observed them, they too assessed him, many seeing him in person for the first time, curiosity and wonder apparent in their beautiful eyes.

    They whispered among themselves, asionally giggling softly; their cheeks blushed pink under the glow of the candles, like ripe peaches on the table, smooth and sweet, dripping with honeyed words.

    Their discussions centered around Yun Xiao''s remarkable Creator Immortal form.

    Indeed, he was exceptional. Of course, being of stature, they weren''t impertinent but couldn''t help their natural admiration.

    "Sir Lu, do you recognize the heroines of the Immortal path in this hall?" Empress Zhao asked with a warm smile, making it seem more a casual conversation than an inquisition.

    "Your Majesty, my knowledge of Immortals is limited, having only recently embarked on the path; I ask for their indulgence," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Indeed, indulgence," Blue Star chirped from his embrace, his face alight with a smirk.

    Yun Xiao gave Blue Star a gentle squeeze through his armor, maintaining his smile. His pleasant demeanor, coupled with his divine looks, naturally spared him any mind for his inexperience.

    Empress Zhao smiled. "Yue Yin, you are my acknowledged disciple and belong to the Western Kunlun Pce; you needn¡¯t be formal. Today, as I survey the heavens and earth, passing by the Thunder Department, I brought peers to meet Lu Yao, this remarkable youth. You are his master; please introduce him."

    "Understood." Yue Yin, a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer, appeared especially dutiful in this setting.

    Of course, to introduce Yun Xiao was to acknowledge his status, and the seating arrangement in the hall already represented the respective honors of these women.

    Leading Yun Xiao, Yue Yin directed his attention to Empress Zhao''s right, where a young woman in a pink dress sat. She was exceptionally pretty with a pair of pink bunny ears¡ªwhether ornamental or real was unclear.

    Under the soft pink candlelight, this maiden appeared exquisitely delicate, her innocenceced with a touch of allure, irresistibly captivating.

    "This is Saintess Yao Xi, the Princess Consort of the Crown Prince," Yue Yin said with reverence.

 Chapter 682: Divine Dawn Cornered!

    The Crown Prince''s chosen consort, destined to be the Empress Dowager if she lived long enough.

    Yun Xiao remained unemotional, offering respectful words as protocol demanded, acknowledging her presence with mere formality.

    The Saintess Yao Xi also acted with fitting grace, greeting Yun Xiao with a slight smile.

    At that moment, Yue Yin introduced Yun Xiao to the position on the left of Empress Zhao, upied by a tall woman standing nearly seven feet tall, overshadowing Yun Xiao by more than a foot, her presence formidable andmanding.

    She was d in a golden suit of armor that covered her entirely, leaving only her fingers and a pair of dark golden eyes visible, her gaze domineering, the most unsettling in the entire hall.

    ¡°This is one of the Eight Great Sovereigns of the Celestial Court, the only female hero among them, the master of the Combat Division, the Combat Sovereign,¡± Yue Yin introduced with respect, though her eyes dared not meet the Combat Sovereign''s. For this female tyrant was truly fierce.

    The Moon Sword Goddess was merely a favored figure in Empress Zhao¡¯s Kunlun Pce, but the Combat Sovereign was Empress Zhao¡¯s right-hand woman, a supremely influential figure.

    "I pay respects to the Combat Sovereign," Yun Xiao said.

    "Immortal Champion, I have witnessed your valor firsthand," the Combat Sovereign replied, her voice deep but not coarse, exuding strength.Even a Rank 1 Sovereign of Celestial Court, a figureparable to the Nine Thunders Sovereign, was a member of the Western Kunlun Pce¡­ this spoke volumes of the influence of this assembly.

    But Yun Xiao knew that the Western Kunlun Pce was nominally not an organization but simply the Empress Dowager''s personal court.

    They gathered under the guise of hospitality and social events hosted by Empress Zhao; technically, it wasn''t official¡ªjust a gathering for noble women.

    However, as these gatherings grew around Empress Zhao as their focal point, legality became irrelevant.

    It was attended by the Crown Princess and a Rank 1 Sovereign! These were but two among those seated under Empress Zhao.

    Yue Yin continued introducing others to Yun Xiao.

    For instance, at the second position on the right, there sat a stately, luxurious woman, peerless in figure andplexion, known as <em>Lady Fortune</em>, a Rank 2 Heavenly Officer and the wife of the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    To the left, resembling the Moon Sword Goddess, stood Yue Yin¡¯s older sister, the Sun Sword Goddess, her demeanor and personality far more fiery than that of Yue Yin.

    And she was the Northstar Sword Devil''s wife!

    The others introduced were nearly all Rank 2 Heavenly Officers and rightful wives of various overlords.

    In such a gathering, an unmarried Rank 2 Heavenly Officer like Yue Yin was only middling, her connections and power significantly less than her sister¡¯s.

    Among the 100 present, the lowest in status was equal to Gu Suwan, a Rank 3 Lightning Duchess!

    Meaning, the former Rank 4 Chief Military Thunder Emissary, Cao Shuo, was barely on the threshold of the Western Kunlun Pce, a fringe figure whocked the status to attend such a high-end gathering of celestial women today.

    In the esteemed halls whereughter mingled with the sweet taste of divine peaches, only the wealthy and noble could partake.

    Without a word from Empress Zhao to halt, Yue Yin continued her introductions until all the 100 present had been named, leaving Yun Xiao feeling somewhat dizzy from the procession.

    He summed it up briefly in his mind. Ny-five percent of these noble Immortaldies were married. Most held nominal posts, doing little most days except following Empress Zhao around in the Western Kunlun Pce.

    Yue Yin was somewhat an anomaly among them; she had been busily engaged at the Immortal Sword Court, only recently having set aside her duties to devote herself to Yun Xiao.

    It was her older sister who had drawn her into the circle of the Western Kunlun Pce, though she seldom visited.

    One could say that of the wives and daughters of top officials in the Celestial Court, a significant portion had ties to the Western Kunlun Pce.

    With the introductions finally over, Empress Zhao waved her hand, and a peach-shaped jade pendant floated towards Yun Xiao, settling into his hand.

    ¡°Lu Yao, my esteemed colleagues have expressed their admiration for you. Take this pendant; it will grant you ess to the Western Kunlun Pce anytime to join our discussions.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Empress Dowager,¡± Yun Xiao responded, waiting for what was toe next.

    He knew the real topic was about to be addressed.

    Indeed, Empress Zhao sighed deeply and then praised Yun Xiao, ¡°I can''t believe the demons and devils dared to infiltrate our great Celestial Court. Tounch an assault while the Thunder Department is in the middle of a crisis¡­ it''s an utterly cowardly and despicable act, challenging the dignity of the Heavenly Pce. Fortunately for us, we had you guarding the gate,manding the celestial formation and saving the Thunder Department from destruction."

    ¡°As a Heavenly Officer of the Celestial Court, it was merely my duty,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    Empress Zhao shook her head with a smile. ¡°By position, you are but a Rank 4 Chief Military Thunder Emissary. Yet, you have achieved glory far beyond your station. This is why I summoned you¡­ not only because all the women here wished to meet the great hero in person, but also to deliver an imperial decree.¡±

    She then looked towards the Combat Sovereign.

    The Combat Sovereign stood, her gaze fixed on Yun Xiao, and dered, ¡°Immortal Champion Lu Yao, heed the decree.¡±

    Yun Xiao''s eyelid twitched as he responded, ¡°Yes.¡±

    The Combat Sovereign then read, ¡°As a Rank 4 Chief Military Thunder Emissary, you have in our foes and rescued the Thunder Department, establishing illustrious merits visible to all under heaven. By special exception, you are promoted to the position of Rank 2 Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General, and you are awarded an Upper Divine Heaven grade celestial treasure, the Heavenly Treasure Robe.¡±

    Yun Xiao felt a slight shock within. The Celestial Court was clearly aware of his threat and yet they yed this game?

    Being made a Rank 2 Heavenly officer was scarcely useful; they could strip the rank as easily as they had granted it. But to also award him an Upper Divine Heaven grade celestial treasure? Was it truly a gift?

    Last time Yun Xiao was named the Immortal Champion, the Celestial Court had given him the tinum Champion Set, but it had already been destroyed.

    He didn''t fuss over such matters; it was wise to ept benefits when offered.

    So, Yun Xiao gratefully acknowledged the imperial decree, and the Combat Sovereign handed him a golden jade box, which he tucked away without opening it right then.

    "Congrattions, the youngest ever Rank 4 Chief Military Thunder Emissary has now be the youngest Rank 2 Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General. This record of yours, no one forting can break," Empress Zhao said with a beaming smile.

    A Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General! Yun Xiao was now a top-tier official!

    And with significant authority, surpassing most of the women present!

    He was second only to the Combat Sovereign!

    With this imperial decree, controlling the Thunder Department would be much easier for Yun Xiao.

    But he knew well, there were no free lunches in heaven.

    So, after the initial wave of jubnt congrattions subsided, Yun Xiao asked, "Your Majesty¡­ Aside from the forces of Naraka, Lu Fan''s Great Dao Celestial Army was alsoplicit in the assault on the Thunder Department. How does the Celestial Court n to deal with him?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    He asked because he noticed that the imperial decree had mentioned nothing about the Great Dao Celestial Army.

    After his question, the atmosphere in the hall dipped slightly, and the delicate Immortaldies all turned their gaze towards Empress Zhao.

    Empress Zhao responded naturally, "After the incident at the Thunder Department, Sovereign Lu immediately went to the Divine Gateway to rify matters. It has been determined that Zhu Shenlu and Yu Shiling were bribed by Naraka to betray the Celestial Court. The White Emperor is prepared to severely punish their ns... Of course, Sovereign Lu''s inability to control his subordinates has also been noted for reprimand by the White Emperor."

    "So it seems." Yun Xiao internally smirked at the response.

    "Even now, the Celestial Court loves to save face, wiping the ass of that Chaos Spirit," Blue Starmented disdainfully.

    "They only refrain from dealing with Lu Fan because they want to keep the focus of discord on me, while the Celestial Court continues to conserve its strength and y nice with everyone," Yun Xiao said evenly.

    So, the Celestial Court was cleaning up after the Chaos Sovereign while simultaneously promoting Yun Xiao, officially resolving the Thunder Department''s turmoil.

    Moreover, the Celestial Court did not publicly descend upon the Thunder Department to dere Yun Xiao''s rewards, but allowed Empress Zhao to do it privately... This subtlety meant that should they turn against Yun Xiaoter, their own reputation would remain intact.

    Frankly, it was distasteful!

    But Yun Xiao had no choice. He would take the benefits first and deal with the rest as it came!

    This time, with the Great Dao Celestial Army and Naraka suffering such tremendous losses, Yun Xiao wasn''t the one who should be worried or stressed.

    "By the way," Empress Zhao said softly, looking at Yun Xiao, she suddenly asked, "Sir Lu, there are rumors that you have some connections with that false Divine Dawn. Surely that''s not true?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "Of course not."

    Empress Zhao pursed her lips in a smile and said softly, "That''s good to hear."

    After a pause, she continued, "Even so, rumors are fearsome things, so when Sovereign Lu corners that false Divine Dawn, you must avoid any appearance of involvement."

    "Cornering her?" Yun Xiao looked up at Empress Zhao.

    Empress Zhao nodded and sighed. "That fiendish pretender destroyed the Ascension Pool, allowing the forces of Naraka to infiltrate the Celestial Court, and encouraged the ascenders to spread rumors about incensing offerings to smear the Celestial Court''s image, making her public enemy number one."

    After saying this, she chuckled wistfully, "Sovereign Lu is cunning indeed. That woman¡­ she''s the one who encouraged all the ascenders to spread those rumors, right? Well, Sovereign Lu captured them all. Now, we¡¯ll see if she dares toe forward to meet her end."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 683: The Affection of the Great Mother!

    Chapter 683: The Affection of the Great Mother!

    After Empress Zhao spoke, she sighed deeply, her brows knitting with worry for her nation and her people.

    "Spreading rumors is easy, quashing them is hard," shemented.

    At that moment, all eyes naturally turned to Yun Xiao, awaiting his response.

    With aposed expression, Yun Xiao nodded and continued from where the Empress Dowager left off. "Among the people, there are evildoers; these scoundrels ought to be disciplined."

    "Like I said, a favored son of heaven such as Sir Lu could not possibly be involved with a Divine Heaven grade high criminal. Those wagging tongues also need to be silenced," Empress Zhao remarked, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction as she watched Yun Xiao.

    Afterwards, Yun Xiao took his seat to enjoy some dance and music, savoring the divine peaches and fine wine, before excusing himself on the pretext of needing to meditate.

    As the celestialdies bid him farewell, there was a hint of reluctance in their goodbye.

    Descending from the Western Kunlun Pce, Yun Xiao¡¯s expression grew cold.

    "Has Sovereign Lu conspired with the White Emperor to eliminate you?" Yue Yin inquired.Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Shall we go rescue her?" Yue Yin asked again.

    "Let''s discuss thister," Yun Xiao replied, then soared back to the Thunder Department.

    Facing the wind, he gazed towards the divinend of the Celestial Court, his eyes as indifferent as the night.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Within Naraka, Celestial Demon Abyss, the Divine Destion Sea¡­

    This region of the Celestial Demon Abyss was the counterpart to the crater where the Devil Eye resided. It was where the celestial energy mutated into various types of destion.

    Elements like wind, fire, thunder, and ice struggled like fierce demons, battling endlessly in this vast sea of destion.

    This was the sacred region every demon yearned for.

    The Celestial Demon Abyss once had a Demon Court to rule over it. But after continuous wars and umting resentments, the Great Mother was born, and everything changed.

    The Great Mother conquered all!

    Even the previously impartially distributed Divine Destion Sea, under her absolute rule, became subject to her whims.

    Most of the time, the Great Mother slept in the Divine Destion Sea, determining who would live and who would die.

    However, these past few days had been an exception.

    Many celestial demons witnessed a young fox indulging himself in the Divine Destion Sea, treating this sacred ce as a bathing pool.

    Yet, the Great Mother did not stop him; instead, she sat nearby in her eight-foot humanoid form, smiling as she watched.

    She looked like a kind mother watching her son y in the water.

    At first, these demons paid little mind, hardly concerned at all.

    But soon, one among them noticed something astonishing.

    "Great Mother," a burly figure said. His body was cloaked in darkness, shaggy with ck fur, a visage fierce and framed by tworge horns.

    His hair was wild, tangled with ck leaves, and from his palms and feet, ck roots burrowed into the earth, marking him as an ancient tree demon.

    "The Ancient Ent King has gone to see the Great Mother!"

    The demons held their breath, watching anxiously.

    The Ancient Ent King was a revered and venerable figure within the Demon Fairy Cave, respected by his peers for his wisdom and standing.

    The Empress turned her head, seated high, gazing down at the Ancient Ent King, waiting for him to speak.

    "Great Mother." The Ancient Ent King''s brow furrowed slightly. "This is a savage demon whose mastery of destion surpasses our understanding. Since he''s entered the Divine Destion Sea, he has broken through several major realms. In just two days, his spirit has almost manifested a golden astral body!"

    This observation was not lost on many who were present.

    "Yes."

    "He has stolen quite a bit," the others echoed, their voices low, indicating the deep fear the Great Mother instilled in them.

    "And?" the Great Mother asked in a casual tone that sent a shiver through the Ancient Ent King''s heart, causing him to bow hurriedly. "Considering this demon was sent by the Chaos Sovereign, it might be a trap... However, I trust the Great Mother has already foreseen this and holds all strategies within her grasp."

    "Exactly, exactly," the others muttered with nervousughter.

    "What <em>this </em>demon, <em>that </em>demon... How rude." The Great Mother stood up, her presence majestic, looking down at the Ancient Ent King. "He is my treasure."

    "Huh¡­?" the Ancient Ent King felt no endearment in her words, only a lethal threat.

    Indeed, as soon as the Great Mother spoke, her eight-foot frame swelled, her head transforming into a gaping maw that snapped shut on the Ancient Ent King.

    "Great Mother, spare me! I was wrong!" the Ancient Ent King wailed miserably, trembling in terror.

    Yet it was futile; the Great Mother''s gaping maw was lined with rows of sharp teeth.

    As she chewed repeatedly, the cries of despair from the Ancient Ent King dwindled and finally ceased within her mouth.

    "Ptui!" The Great Mother spat out what looked like a chewed-up stalk of green grass, using it to pick her teeth before tossing it to the ground.

    It was the Ancient Ent King''s trunk, and its rings, which once marked the passage of many years, were now rendered meaningless.

    A low hum spread among the celestial demons, who quickly bowed their heads, not daring to breathe loudly as they backed away, vowing never to speak ill of Moon Fairy again.

    Their hearts twisted with nothing but fear.

    The Great Mother didn¡¯t bother to exin why she had devoured the Ancient Ent King.

    After the deed, she transformed back into her humanoid form, her hair cascading in the air down to her waist, wearing a simple gray dress that barely reached her thighs. Her statuesque legs, towering over many a normal human''s chest, embodied a sublime grace.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    With the heaviness of a mountain but the litheness of a firefly, the Great Mother leapt towards the Divine Destion Sea. Before she touched down, her lone garment fluttered away with the wind, revealing her eight-foot, exquisitely curved form bathed in a faint glow¡ªutterly breathtaking, almost supernaturally so.

    Despite the aggregation of corpses and without the Prison Warden Sigil to cleanse the deathly aura, her beauty was defiantly otherworldly.

    <em>SPLASH! </em>Moon Fairy emerged from the Divine Destion Sea, witnessing the majestic Great Mother with her ck hair wildly dancing in the wind as she descended before him.

    Moon Fairy stood a little over five and a half feet tall in his human form. He seemed diminutivepared to the usual beauties and especially so in front of the towering Great Mother.

    "Uh?" Moon Fairy''s line of vision waspletely filled by the figure of the Great Mother. The scene was not charming but chilling.

    Yet, Moon Fairy did not retreat. After all, he was actually Yun Xiao himself. He''d experienced all sorts of oddities, and built up a will that would not back down easily.

    "Come, hug." The Great Mother beckoned with open arms, mustering a faint smile as she gazed solemnly at him.

    "She''s clearly off her rocker. Maybe some kind of emotional or cognitive decline from absorbing so many corpses or living so long..." Moon Fairy thought to himself. Despite his difort, he moved towards her.

    Then, in one swift motion, she pulled him close, enveloping him in her embrace.

    "Fluffy, my little darling." The Great Mother cooed as she caressed the back of his head, his fox ears, and tail.

    "Great Mother, you''re warm¡­" Moon Fairy murmured through gritted teeth, mimicking her style of speech in his reply.

    The Great Mother chuckled¡ªa sound pure and childlike, filled with delight. It was the first time anyone had ever called her, a conglomeration of resentments and corpses, <em>warm</em>. Her joy was palpable, and she released Moon Fairy, patting his head. "Go on, y. Swim."

    "Yes. Great Mother." Moon Fairy didn''t bother with the specifics; as long as he could continue absorbing the destion without interruption, long live the Great Mother!

    He had seen what had happened to the Ancient Ent King. He thought his cover was blown and had the Nian ready an escape n, for it was more versed in demon magic than he was.

    But it turned out he could stay? Well then, he had no ns to hold himself back!

    So, under the uneasy and ufortable stares of the other demons, not only did Moon Fairy not perish, but he also continued to partake in the purest form of destion they all coveted.

    "It''s going smoothly, isn''t it? The body double in this Celestial Demon Abyss has caught the Great Mother''s interest, and over in the Celestial Devil Abyss, that Devil Eye seems to have taken a liking to my blood ve."

    Both cases were surprisingly simr! They had both caught the attention of the two overlords of Naraka.

    "With the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, you have to fight, kill, and refine blood to grow stronger. Meanwhile, enhancing the Divine Destion Physique is much simpler¡ªjust having an ample source of destion is enough."

    If it was about speed, the Will of Divine Destion was quicker.

    Yun Xiao had been keeping up with the progress of the Will of Divine Destion these days; it was only ack of resources that held him back.

    With the destion in ce, he was ready to soar!

    So, under the affectionate gaze of the Great Mother, he dived deep into the Divine Destion Sea to devour even higher quality Deste Essence.

    Some of this destion was already ssified as Dao Heaven or even Divine Heaven grade!

    "Let''s eat." Moon Fairy transformed into a six-tailed silver fox, his body a swirling vortex of silver, furiously swirling through the Divine Destion Sea.

 Chapter 684: Disappearance of the Star Barrier!

    Chapter 684: Disappearance of the Star Barrier!

    A deep hum resonated through the air.

    A wild surge, like a tidal wave, flooded into Moon Fairy''s body, merging into the Will of Divine Destion and strengthening his fleshly body.

    "This body double''s innate talents were limited. But I got lucky by devouring the Nian and devouring its Divine Cmity Seed, which greatly enhanced the foundation of my Divine Destion Physique."

    This was Yun Xiao''s most advanced Seed of Creation, surpassing even the Nine Heavens Star Meridians and the Nine Suns Dantian.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    So, Moon Fairy''s potential was vast in the short term!

    The Divine Cmity Seed could also be replenished and enhanced by devouring other fleshly body attribute Seeds of Creation.

    "Exhrating! Thrilling!" The Nian too, now inside the Moon Fairy, cried out passionately.

    All of it now belonged to Moon Fairy, who had digested its body, leaving only its two stubborn eyeballs hanging on.

    The Nian was passive now, and Yun Xiao could also easily suppress and neutralize it. But considering its usefulness, he decided to keep it."The Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion ising," Moon Fairy sensed.

    After days of consolidation, a rise was imminent!

    Compared to his Worldly Dao Heart, it was much easier for Yun Xiao to grow his body double''s Divine Destion Dao Heart.

    As predicted, Moon Fairy''s Divine Destion Spirit soon attracted the first tribtion of the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion!

    It was the Earth Pulse Thunder!

    However, even as his spirit faced the tribtion, Moon Fairy continued to absorb the destion around him. And it was the highest grade of Deste Essence from the deepest part of the Divine Destion Sea!

    "Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion!"

    Outside the Divine Destion Sea, the previously silent Celestial Demon Abyss suddenly stirred.

    Many demons gazed at the Earth Pulse Thunder gathering in the sky!

    The Earth Pulse Thunder wasmon. But what attracted everyone''s attention was that it appeared over the Divine Destion Sea.

    Currently, only one demon was allowed to be there!

    "Just as the Ancient Ent King predicted, that fox''s growth is problematic!"

    "This is the gift from the Chaos Sovereign..."

    "What, oh what, is the Great Mother thinking?"

    The terror of Moon Fairy was clear for all to see!

    Yet even so, the multitude of demons could only fret, not daring to speak to the Great Mother.

    The remains of the Ancient Ent King, a tree trunk filled with rings of age, was embedded in the ground.

    More and more demons bowed their heads and sighed, their faces bitter.

    With a thunderous roar, the Earth Pulse Thunder struck down, reaching the Divine Destion Sea and causing a tumult of destion to erupt, intensifying the thunder''s might.

    The gathered demons could only hope that this thunder would be the end of Moon Fairy.

    Meanwhile, the Great Mother, barefoot and floating above the Divine Destion Sea, was wrapped in mist, her presence somanding that no demon dared to look directly at her.

    At that moment, her eyes trembled slightly, as if watching her own creatione to life, her breathing grew heavy, and a storm surged through her nostrils.

    <em>BOOM! </em>While the demons awaited the Earth Pulse Thunder to smite Moon Fairy, the second of the Five Thunder Spirit Tribtions Descended¡ªthe Volcanic Thunder! The earth-toned lightning had just started clearing up, when countless crimson lightning serpents emerged, turning the sky into a sea of fiery thunder, like a thunder volcano inverted in the heavens.

    "Uh... this speed..."

    "It''s somewhat reminiscent of that Champion of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!"

    "Unbelievable..."

    Amidst hushed whispers, the Volcanic Thunder crashed down, painting the entire Divine Destion Sea a fiery red!

    Undoubtedly, Moon Fairy had survived.

    What truly shook the hearts of the demons was that the third thunder, the Moonwater Thunder, was quickly approaching.

    When thunder and water merged, the electric current grew even more ferocious. In the harmony of hardness and softnessy the true destruction of the Dao!

    Once sessful, it would mark thete stage of the Anima Tribtion Realm!

    This stage represented thepletion of the umtive process of the Anima Tribtion Realm, with the subsequent perfection and stabilizing phase meant to consolidate and strengthen!

    As the Moonwater Thunder crashed down, the Great Mother bathed in the blue light of the moonwater lightning. Her face, which was so deathly pale, lit up with excitement, and her slender fingers trembled lightly.

    "The Late Anima Tribtion Realm! He''s now a top celestial demon!"

    "If this continues, he''ll truly be uncontroble..."

    The faces of the surrounding celestial demons had turned pale, their hearts tormented with both distress and frustration.

    Fortunately, after the Moonwater Thunder, the clouds above began to disperse.

    This meant that Moon Fairy was not making any more breakthroughs.

    Even for the Divine Destion Physique, the string of continuous breakthroughs felt somewhat surreal.

    Within the Divine Destion Sea, Moon Fairy felt unustomed to the power surging through his body.

    "I''ll take a small break. Then, I''ll blitz through the remaining two stages of the Anima Tribtion Realm in one go."

    It truly was a thrilling feeling, entering and breaking through so many realms in the Third Dao Tribtion in such a short span of time!

    Moon Fairy breathed out, nning to swim back up to the surface for a little breather. But then, as if a giant de had cleaved down from the heavens, the Divine Destion Sea was split in half and scattered to the sides.

    The destion around Moon Fairypletely vanished!

    He floated between two neat halves of the Divine Destion Sea, looking up to see an eight-foot-tall woman with ck hair looking down on him from the sky, her eyes pale and ghostly.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>She didn''t utter a single word, but her tongue, red and long like a frog''s, shot out with lightning speed and wrapped around Moon Fairy several times over.

    "What the!?"

    Looking down, Moon Fairy saw himself bound up like a bloody rice dumpling! He tested the strength of the tongue; it was incredibly powerful. Unadjusted to his current strength, he tried to shake free, but the tongue remained unscathed.

    "The dumpling is cooked, nice and warm," the Great Mother said, her long tongue stretching out, her mouth curling up to her ears in a grotesque, enormous grin.

    "What?"

    In Yun Xiao''s memories, Moon Fairy had already been devoured twice! The first time was by Forbidden Fate, and the second time by the Nian!

    "NO!"

    Just as Moon Fairy cried out, the Great Mother''s tongue moved too quickly to see, and with a gulp, he disappeared. The Great Mother closed her mouth and looked down at her bulging stomach, resembling pregnancy.

    She stretchedzily, a satisfied smile on her face, patted her stomach t, and then turned to face the countless celestial demons.

    The celestial demons were first shocked, then finally understood.

    "So, the Great Mother was just quickly fattening up a pig!"

    Realizing this, and witnessing the fate of Moon Fairy, the demons suddenly kneeled, beginning their worship of the Great Mother.

    The Celestial Demon Abyss erupted into chaos.

    The face of the Great Mother, however, twisted into something fierce as she snarled, "Go ask Lu Fan when the ughter begins!"

    Hermand was clear, without any ambiguity.

    No sooner had her words fallen than, at that moment, the Lunar Demon Mistress flew in from outside, exuberantly announcing to the Great Mother, "Great Mother, Sovereign Lu sends word that the star barrier of the Great Dao Celestial Realm is broken. The Celestial Demon Abyss can now set forth to seize the Celestial Court!"

    With this deration, the abyss shook violently.

    "Kill!"

    The demons, suppressed for countless years, became hysterical, their eyes blood-red, forming a tidal wave of fury, ready for battle!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Celestial Devil Abyss, the War Princess stood in the wind, gazing ahead at the 100,000 Shadow Devils of the Mo Tribe.

    She distinctly felt the surroundings stir, perhaps due to some message, and the scent of war began to sweep through this grim world, growing ever more frenzied.

    "You!"

    Suddenly, a low and solemn voice rose behind her.

    The War Princess turned to see Xiu coldly staring at her.

    Though injured, his presence was still formidable.

    "Lord Xiu," the War Princess said evenly.

    "You killed Mo Yang and Mo Xi, and harmed over 1,000 Shadow Devils!" Xiu dered coldly.

    "They disregarded the orders of the great Devil Eye and openly insulted me. They deserved death," the War Princess responded.

    A surge of murderous intent shed in Xiu''s eyes.

    However, when he saw the Sanguine Phantom in the War Princess''s hand, his urge to kill dissipated.

    "You willmand the Mo Tribe. Move out immediately," Xiumanded.

    "Where do we march?" War Princess asked.

    "To the Great Dao Celestial Realm!" Xiu pronounced each word deliberately.

    "Isn''t there a star barrier?" War Princess inquired, puzzled.

    With a cold smile, Xiu replied, "It''s gone now."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 685: Summoning Order, Narakas Invasion

    Chapter 685: Summoning Order, Naraka''s Invasion

    "The star barrier has disappeared¡­?"

    Back in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, Yun Xiao simultaneously learned this information from both his body double and the War Princess. He quickly shared the news with Yue Yin and Gu Suwan.

    "The star barrier is jointly controlled by the White Emperor and Crown Prince. Without either, it can''t be deactivated. How could Sovereign Lu possibly achieve this?"

    ¡°True or not, we¡¯ll see for ourselves if we go up there,¡± Gu Suwan suggested, pointing to the skies of the Thunder Department.

    Without further ado, Yun Xiao soared into the heavens on his Sovereign Sword, with Yue Yin and Gu Suwan following suit. Yue Yin rode her own sword, while Gu Suwan navigated the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, ready to support Yun Xiao''s swift travels across the skies.

    Due to the repeated uses of the Thunder Immortal Formation, the <em>chromosphere </em>above the Thunder Department had thinned considerably, allowing Yun Xiao to easily break through the clouds and mes of the Celestial Sourcecore, and venture out into the starry expanse!

    The Great Dao Myriad Extremes Five Infernos Star Barrier was ranked as the most powerful formation in the Great Dao Celestial Realm! It absorbed the power of the entire realm to envelop and protect all within it!

    By its name alone, its might was evident, surpassing even the Thunder Immortal Formation in lethality.

    Among the grand formations of the Celestial Court, the Five Infernos Star Barrier ranked first; the Thunder Immortal Formation, third; and the barrier that protected the Divine Gateway ranked second..¡°Are you there?¡± Yue Yin caught up, asking softly.

    Yun Xiao extended a finger forward, and upon reaching a critical point, five vortexes of gold, green, blue, red, and brown spiraled around his fingertip, binding it like theyers of hell.

    ¡°It¡¯s still there,¡± Yun Xiao dered in a deep tone.

    Hearing this, Gu Suwan maneuvered the Azure Rain Sword Vessel closer and remarked dryly, ¡°So did Sovereign Lu trick the forces of Naraka?"

    ¡°Weren¡¯t they allies? What good does deception do?¡± Yue Yin expressed her disbelief.

    ¡°Perhaps Sovereign Lu has reconciled with the Celestial Court, nning to dispose of the demons and devils first,¡± Gu Suwan spected, then shook her head, ¡°It doesn¡¯t make sense.¡±

    ¡°Right. Naraka isn¡¯t foolish. They¡¯ll realize the star barrier is intact the moment they arrive,¡± Yue Yin reasoned.

    ¡°There¡¯s only one possibility,¡± Yun Xiao said, gazing into the vast expanse ahead.

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan looked at him intently.

    ¡°The star barrier remains unbroken for now, but Lu Fan must have a way to shatter it before the forces of Naraka arrive. That way, the Celestial Court will bepletely caught off-guard,¡± Yun Xiao concluded.

    "Can he truly aplish it?" Yue Yin furrowed her delicate brows.

    "As a Rank 2 True Immortal of the Celestial Court, given your centuries of experience, it''s impossible, right?" Yun Xiao said.

    "Indeed." Yue Yin nodded.

    "Once Naraka''s army arrives, most at the Celestial Court will likely think as you do. Overconfidence leads to ax defense, making it easy to suffer a great defeat," Yun Xiao remarked calmly.

    "What should we do? Inform the Celestial Court?" Gu Suwan hastily asked, then quickly rified, "Don''t get me wrong; I''m not concerned about the White Emperor or Crown Prince. However, once the Great Dao Celestial Realm goes to war with Naraka, the first ones to be called up to defend the realm will be the ordinary Immortals, like those in the Thunder Department."

    "Right." Yun Xiao nodded. "The issue is that no one will believe you."

    Everyone knew that Gu Suwan was now under Yun Xiao''s influence; her reporting might even be perceived as having ulterior motives.

    "Lu Fan is colluding with Naraka, but we''re also at odds with the Celestial Court. Honestly, it''s unlikely we''ll be able to coexist with any side in this conflict¡­" Yun Xiao analyzed, as Yue Yin struggled to see a way out.

    However, Yun Xiao''s gaze was firm as he dered, "Even if the star barrier is taken down, the martial might of the Great Dao Celestial Realm is strong; we don''t need to worry too much. There''s only two things I have to do."

    "What two?" Both women asked in unison.

    "Cultivate. And then, find Divine Dawn," Yun Xiao replied.

    The first was to strengthen himself and maintain the initiative.

    The second was to foil the trap set by Lu Fan, who aimed not only to defeat the Celestial Court but eliminate Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn.

    "Indeed, the oue of the top powerhouses will be the key to victory or defeat," Yue Yin agreed.

    "Go and investigate the movements of the Great Dao Celestial Army, find out where they''re holding the ascenders to lure out Divine Dawn," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Understood."

    Yue Yin nodded, and seeing no furthermands from Yun Xiao, she vanished into the wind on her Sovereign Sword, her departure as graceful as it was swift.

    "And what about us? What are we going to do?" Gu Suwan asked.

    Yun Xiao stepped onto the Azure Rain Sword Vessel and settled into a meditative posture, "Just circle above the Thunder Department. Be ready to take me wherever needed once we receive news."

    "Alright," Gu Suwan entered the Azure Rain Sword Vessel and closed the door.

    Pale Revenant was also inside, quietly curled up in a corner, hugging her knees and blinking at Yun Xiao, waiting for food.

    Then she noticed Yun Xiao consuming the Heavenly Dao Sariras one by one, their rich aroma filling the air.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Immortal Yun, may I have one?" Pale Revenant asked, a hint of longing in her voice.

    Yun Xiao smiled slightly and tossed one to her.

    Gu Suwan looked on curiously.

    "Thank you, Immortal Yun," Pale Revenant said as she took it, popping it into her mouth to savor it gently. But she immediately spat it out, her mouth ckened and smoking, a look of aggrieved disappointment on her face. "It tastes awful, and it burns."

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh, seeing her soot-covered face, which lightened his mood considerably.

    "Speaking of which, your body double is alright, right?" Blue Star asked with a wry smile.

    "This is, what, the third time it''s been eaten now? No big deal. Just a corpse demon, it won''t be digested that easily," Yun Xiao said nonchntly.

    "So, what you''re saying is that Naraka will be delivering two of your biggest trump cards right to your doorstep¡­" Blue Star chuckled.

    "Too bad that Great Mother is too timid. If only she were a bit greedier, it would have given me a chance to grow stronger," Yun Xiao mused, then gazed down at the Thunder Department from the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    After surviving two cmities, the Arbiters finally breathed a sigh of relief, returning to their daily routines. However, what might follow could truly be a war involving everyone.

    The most irksome part about the Celestial Court was that Yun Xiao had been promoted to a Rank 2 Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General. Yet, no one in the Thunder Department knew¡ªhe had to announce it himself.

    "Whatever, it''s time to cultivate!" Yun Xiao dered.

    The forces of Naraka would take time to gather and reach the Great Dao Celestial Realm, and for Yun Xiao, every moment was precious.

    "Lu Fan is desperate to kill me. But no matter how anxious he is, it''ll still take time. As long as there''s time..." Yun Xiao calmed himself, his spirit returning to the Dantian, immersing deeply into it.

    Blue Star and Red Moon had just produced a massive amount of Heavenly Dao Sarira, and he didn¡¯t spare any. After consuming the Buddha''s Treasures of thousands of Immortals, demons, and devils, along with the Origin Orbs, his spirit and soul were already incredibly powerful!

    It was only his cultivation that needed to catch up!

    In that moment of meditation, Gu Suwan watched as Yun Xiao broke through three stages in rapid session, soaring from Mid Golden Immortal directly to an Establishment Golden Immortal.

    "My god¡­ Breakthroughs really doe as easy as breathing for this kid," Gu Suwan muttered.

    She was still somewhat envious of Cao Shu, who''d ascended rapidly to the Late Anima Tribtion Realm. However, the true freak was this young man before her.

    With a series of cracks, Yun Xiao stood, stretching his limbs.

    "With only the power of my true self, I should be unbeatable within the Anima Tribtion Realm. But the Rank 1 Heavenly Officers of the Celestial Court are above even that."

    Those were the apex predators of the food chain in both the Great Dao Celestial Realm and Naraka, including figures like Lu Fan, the Northstar Sword Devil, White Emperor, and Crown Prince...

    However, Yun Xiao had his reinforcements drawing near.

    Just then, he received a flying talisman from Yue Yin.

    ¡¸<em>From what I''ve gathered, the ascenders are likely being held in Sky Soaring City.</em>¡¹

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The divinend of the Celestial Court¡­ A realm of perpetual daylight surrounded by wisps of clouds and mist, where celestial cranes and creatures roamed, and the air was filled with the scent of flowers and the architecture of ptial splendor¡ªthis was the quintessence of heaven as mortals might imagine it!

    Its sanctity and majesty shone like a b of white jade in the cosmos.

    Here, the years passed serenely and the inhabitants thrived in peace.

    But this tranquility was shattered the day the news of Naraka''s forces heading towards the Great Dao Celestial Realm broke!

    <em>DONG! DONG! DONG! </em>The sound of bells reverberated across the divinend, echoing across the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    A summoning order shook the world.

    Hearing the call, Immortals from all dwellings converged towards the Divine Gateway.

    Countless Immortals soared across the sky, disying their celestial might!

 Chapter 686: Tawei Imperial Palace!

    Chapter 686: Tawei Imperial Pce!

    Beyond the Divine Gateway, a majestic tinum pce loomed over the central region of the Celestial Court. To enter this Imperial Pce, visitors had to ascend step-by-step for a total of 999 steps.

    These steps, like a miniature white dragon, held aloft the tinum pce. Atop the pce hung a sign board aglow with golden light, embossed with the eternal words¡ª<em>Taiwei Imperial Pce</em>.

    At this moment, both inside the Taiwei Imperial Pce and upon the white dragon steps, a historic peak of activity thrummed. Immortals of Rank 2 and above had been summoned in great numbers.

    Crowds surged up the white dragon steps, each Immortal taking one step at a time, their faces solemn, whispering amongst themselves in hushed tones as they orderly entered the Taiwei Imperial Pce to pay homage.

    The Taiwei Imperial Pce, the very heart of the dynasty, was a ce where officials, devoid of seats, stood ording to their rank¡ªthe greater the rank, the deeper inside they stood.

    At the highest point of the pce was a lofty dragon throne, now vacant. To the left and right of the throne sat Empress Zhao and the Crown Prince, respectively, poised and proper.

    Empress Zhao''s brows were tightly knit, her face icy, while the Crown Prince wore a cold expression, his eyes harboring a hint of lethal intent.

    Below them, the ministers bowed their heads slightly, their expressions stern, neatly arrayed.

    Before long, the Taiwei Imperial Pce was nearly full, the air thick with swirling mists. Even figures like the Nine Heavens Supreme Thunder General would be positioned at the very back here.

    "There¡¯s no need to wait any longer!" The Crown Prince¡¯s chilling voice shattered the silence.

    The assembled Immortals turned towards him, puzzled.

    "My Imperial Father is only one step away from cracking the Immortal Asylum," the Crown Prince dered. "He has granted me full authority to deal with the invading forces of Naraka."

    This Crown Prince of the Celestial Court was unlike any earthly prince. Like the White Emperor of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, he was one of the only two beings who''d been sustained by the incense offerings for countless ages. Even Empress Zhao was but a junior in his presence.

    In terms of real authority, Empress Zhao couldn¡¯t hold a candle to him, though she was still addressed as his mother.

    "Yes!" came the unified response.

    With the Crown Prince in charge, none among the assembled Immortals objected.

    At that moment, an elder with white hair and beard stepped out to the forefront. He said, "Reporting to the Crown Prince, Chaos Sovereign Lu Fan and the remaining eight Supreme Generals of the Great Dao Celestial Army have ignored the summons. I believe it''s evident that Lu Fan has colluded with the forces of Naraka, preparing for rebellion. This fact should now be made known across all of the Great Dao Celestial Realm."

    This elder was one of the three ministers whose stations in the Taiwei Imperial Pce ranked even above those of the Rank 1 Sovereigns. These three were second only to the White Emperor and Crown Prince in the Celestial Court''s hierarchy, collectively known as the <em>Three Great Constetions</em>, akin to imperial princes and princesses in a mortal dynasty.

    However, the three were not the brothers of the White Emperor but descendants of the Crown Prince, though they appeared much older than him.

    The white-haired elder who had spoken was known as the Heaven-Reaching Constetion.

    To his left stood an old woman in a robe of nine colors, her aura vast and her gazepassionate, resembling a Bodhisattva of salvation. She was known as the Nine Arcanes Constetion.

    To the right stood the youngest of the three, a gaunt middle-aged Immortal with a hunched back and deep-set eyes, appearing gravely ill. His official title was the Martial Peak Constetion.

    These Three Great Constetions represented the core power of the dynasty,manding the Constetion Army, the real backbone of the Celestial Court''s military force. Their primary purpose was not to maintain peace in the Great Dao Celestial Realm but to uphold the dynasty''s absolute rule.

    Behind these three were the Celestial Court¡¯s Rank 1 Heavenly Officers, the pinnacle outsiders could aspire to in a lifetime, including the likes of the Northstar Sword Devil, Dragon Tiger Sovereign, and Combat Sovereign.

    It was clear that among the Eight Great Sovereigns, two were absent¡ªthe Nine Thunders Sovereign and Chaos Sovereign!

    The Nine Thunders Sovereign was on a secret mission tasked by the Crown Prince.

    Meanwhile, the Chaos Sovereign, whomanded the Great Dao Celestial Army, had defied the summoning, revealing his ambitions to all.

    Evidently, the invasion of Naraka''s forces was outside of the Crown Prince''s expectations. He had hoped to pit Lu Fan against Yun Xiao, watching from afar as they fought.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Unexpectedly, a greater tiger had emerged, one that aimed unmistakably to devour his dynasty¡¯s realm¡ªa force purer than both Lu Fan and Yun Xiao.

    With the Celestial Court''s territory under imminent threat, sitting back on the sidelines was no longer an option.

    Now, the officials inside the Taiwei Imperial Pce knew all too well that this chaos was Lu Fan¡¯s doing.

    "How could such a cunning man let us simply watch his battles?"

    Indeed, Lu Fan had dragged both the Celestial Court and Naraka into the mire.

    In the Taiwei Imperial Pce, the assembled Immortals turned their gaze to the Crown Prince, echoing the call of the Heaven-Reaching Constetion. Together, they demanded, "We beseech the Crown Prince to decree the guilt of Lu Fan and his followers for their rebellion against heaven."

    The Heaven-Reaching Constetion spoke, "Within the Great Dao Celestial Army, perhaps many are merely coerced by his authority. We should issue a decree offering these individuals a chance to reaffirm their loyalty to the Celestial Court. Those who turn back shall be granted amnesty."

    A strategy of intimidation and temptation.

    "The threat from Naraka is grave; we can no longer afford to sit idly by," the Nine Arcanes Constetion dered. "If we wait any longer, Lu Fan and Naraka might coordinate their attacks from inside and out, targeting the Immortal Asylum first, and ignoring Yun Xiao..." Her gaze fixed on the Crown Prince, she added, "This would spell disaster for the Celestial Court."

    "Indeed, the Immortal Asylum must be the first target for Lu Fan and Naraka. Yun Xiao himself is a monster forged within its walls," the gaunt Martial Peak Constetion rasped.

    Their consensus was clear. They needed to crush the rebellion in the Great Dao Celestial Army and Lu Fan with the swiftness of a thunderbolt before the full force of Naraka could be brought to bear.

    The Immortals were unanimous in their stance, but the Crown Prince pondered for a moment before suddenly asking, "The current intelligence suggests that Lu Fan has informed Naraka that our star barrier is neutralized?"

    This was a point of doubt, and the Immortals were puzzled.

    "Has it disappeared?" the Crown Prince asked.

    "No," the Immortals replied.

    "I have controlled this grand formation for thousands of years; I would know best if it has stopped working or not," the Crown Prince said with a coldugh. "No one can challenge the Myriad Extremes Five Infernos Star Barrier."

    "But Lu Fan has always been unpredictable. We must prepare for the worst," Empress Zhao interjected.

    "Yes, preparations must be made," the Crown Prince stood, his voice firm. "Just a reminder to all: never underestimate the enemy, but do not show weakness. The Celestial Court has reigned over the Great Dao Celestial Realm for countless generations without challenge, relying on our strength and heritage. Today, we face a once-in-an-eon upheaval, a cmity from three fronts... Yet, once subdued, no one will shake our dynasty¡¯s rule for another ten thousand years!"

    "Yes!" the assembled Immortals replied, their spirits ignited.

    The game could no longer be yed casually. If they had to enter the fray, what was there to fear?

    Then the Crown Prince spoke coldly, "Take the imperial decree, proim throughout the realm that Lu Fan is a condemned criminal, and the Great Dao Celestial Army is to be dissolved effective immediately!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "I have controlled this grand formation for thousands of years; I would know best if it has stopped working or not," the Crown Prince said with a coldugh. "No one can challenge the Myriad Extremes Five Infernos Star Barrier."</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 687: The Heavens Have Fallen!

    Chapter 687: The Heavens Have Fallen!

    In the Great Dao Celestial Realm, the celestial mes zed brightly.

    On this particr day, the Celestial Court simmered with an unusual heat.

    Wherever the mes passed by, the smell of war and battle was thick in the arm!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! </em>Squads of the Great Dao Celestial Army, well-equipped and imposing like a torrent of steel, surged through the mes of the realm, thundering towards distant horizons.

    Their march was directed towards Sky Soaring City.

    Just then, at the very heart of the Great Dao Celestial Army, a group broke formation, ascending higher.

    Leading this group was a carriage drawn by nine dragons, soaring upward, followed by figures swift as phantoms, each clearly a top-tierbatant.

    It was none other than the Chaos Sovereign and his Supreme Generals!

    Soon, this troop flew beyond the reach of the celestial mes into the void of the sky, where the Myriad Extremes Five Infernos Star Barrier awaited right before their eyes.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om"Sovereign!"

    All present, whether demon, devil, or Immortal, knew that the Chaos Sovereign had awaited this day.

    Dismantling the Great Dao Celestial Realm''s grand formation was the key to shaking the ruling dynasty of the Celestial Court.

    The importance of this grand formation was evident.

    Yet, even the devoted followers of Lu Fan harbored doubts... Could he truly breach the star barrier?

    "Naraka''s forces have already set forth; the Chaos Sovereign wouldn''t deceive them."

    His followers were firm in this belief.

    So, when they saw the disheveled middle-aged man in a ck and white robe, looking utterly debauched and drunk, emerge from the dragon-drawn carriage, their eyes zed with fervor!

    This core group of followers was no ordinary gathering.

    Closest to Lu Fan were eight Supreme Generals, on the same level as the recently deceased Zhu Shenlu and Yu Shiling.

    The Thunder Department had only three such Supreme Generals, whereas the Great Dao Celestial Army boasted ten, all vested withmand, highlighting the scale of their might.

    Aside from the Great Dao Celestial Army, there were three formidable powers among Lu Fan''s followers!

    These three forces were not weaker than the Great Dao Celestial Army.

    The first was the demon n of the Celestial Court, centered around the Lunar Mistress.

    The second force was led by the Great Horned Immortals.

    At that moment, a towering Great Horned Immortal stood behind Lu Fan, his head adorned with two horns, one gold and one silver,rger than those guarding the Divine Gateway and evidently much stronger.

    This was the Great Horned King himself.

    Yet, whether demon or devil, they paled inparison to a third, even more potent force.

    Thisst groupprised almost all the unaffiliated cultivators of the Celestial Court, who, for various reasons, remained powerful yet unrecognized, harboring great resentment.

    These Immortals called themselves the Free Immortals. Together, they rivaled the entire Great Dao Celestial Army.

    Especially at the pinnacle of power, there were even more Free Immortals than members of the Great Dao Celestial Army.

    For instance, a bald, gaunt old man, always smiling gently like a saint, walked beside Lu Fan.

    But those who knew him were aware that this Peni Sage was a true terror of the Celestial Court, one of its top criminals, second only to Divine Dawn.

    Despite being hunted by the Celestial Court for so long, he now boldly followed Lu Fan, whose intentions were clear to all.

    Together with the Lunar Demon Mistress, who had ventured to Naraka, Lu Fan''s topmanders indeed formed a robust force.

    At this moment, all the followers held their breath as they watched the Chaos Sovereign ascend once more to confront the Five Infernos Star Barrier.

    "Fine piece of work, you''ve indeed cost me a lot of time," Lu Fan remarked as he extended his hand, his fingers twining with the five suppressive elements of the grand formation.

    With a flick of his wrist, a massive, multicolored wall,posed of five types of destructive celestial energies, suddenly spanned the heavens, thick and brutal, instantly enveloping the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    "System, I choose to redeem a Great Ster Soul Transposition Technique!" Lu Fan suddenly dered to the void.

    ¡¸<em>System: Redemption confirmed. Item: Spirit Wisdom Soul</em>.¡¹

    Upon hearing this, Lu Fan''s face twisted with wild excitement.

    "Begin!" he bellowed with augh.

    As his voice fell, the Five Infernos Star Barrier shuddered slightly!

    Then, it seemed to vanish!

    In that moment, time warped, souls stirred, and ripples danced across everyone¡¯s eyes.

    Even Lu Fan''s eyes fell into a moment of bewildered vacancy, as if he had lost something precious.

    A hum filled the air!

    Where the ripples touched, the Five Infernos Star Barrier truly vanished!

    "Ah!"

    The Peni Sage and Great Horned King, among others, stared wide-eyed, incredulous at the scene unfolding before them.

    After a brief pause, led by the Supreme Senerals, a cheer erupted.

    "The heavens have fallen, and the Chaos Sovereign shall rise!"

    It was more than exhration¡ªit was a revelry!

    Every follower understood the significance of the Five Infernos Star Barrier''s disappearance.

    "We''ve finally reached this moment..."

    Tears welled up in the eyes of the Peni Sage, but within those tearful depths surged a brutal ferocity, "White Emperor, Crown Prince, you old fools, now you''ll pay the steepest price!"

    Their cheers shook the heavens.

    The Five Infernos Star Barrier had not just been breached¡ªit had disappeared, an event unprecedented in history, and from this moment, it would surely send shockwaves across the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    "Naraka''s forces have arrived!"

    Looking skyward, they saw countless demons and devils witnessing the disappearance of the grand formation, and they charged forward in a frenzied, manic roar!

    The ranks of demons and devils stretched endlessly!

    At the end of this immense throng, two vast shadows loomed¡ªthose were the Great Mother and Devil Eye!

    "Chaos Sovereign, shall we still meet with those two?" The Peni Sage chuckled.

    Lu Fan shrugged. "The deed is done; they''ll head to the divinend of the Celestial Court on their own. No need for us to meet."

    "In that case, the ones truly watching the tigers fight from the mountain will be us!" the Great Horned King roared excitedly.

    "Don''t be too sure," Lu Fan cautioned as he gazed towards Sky Soaring City, his voice cold, "That side has its tigers too."

 Chapter 688: Unite for the Sake of Humanity!

    Chapter 688: Unite for the Sake of Humanity!

    From the Heavenly Pce to the furthest reaches of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, flying talismans holding imperial decrees soared through the skies. Each decree vividly listed the transgressions of the Chaos Sovereign, painting a picture so vivid it was said not even a forest of bamboo could record it all. Among these, a warrant was issued specifically for Lu Fan alone.

    Indeed, it was just him.

    The rest of the rebels, like the Great Dao Celestial Army, Peni Sage, Great Horned King, and Lunar Demon Mistress, were not mentioned.

    The intention of the Celestial Court was clear. It was to crush Lu Fan under immense pressure, shaking the resolve of his followers and leaving them an opening to turn against him.

    Yet, even as the decrees were dispatched, the Taiwei Imperial Pce did not n to capture Lu Fan personally. They were aware that the Great Dao Celestial Army was heading to Sky Soaring City. The Crown Prince, watching the tigers fight from his mountain, was confident in his strategy.

    Once the orders were dered, the assembled Immortals within the Taiwei Imperial Pce stood cold and steady as mountains, their conviction unwavering.

    "With the decree issued, we need only set our defenses and wait for the Lu Family to tear each other apart," the Crown Prince said, his eyebrows lifting in a dark, cold smirk.

    The assembled Immortals chuckled at his words.

    However, at that moment, the Crown Prince¡¯s expression turned dramatically. He suddenly stood, staring into the sky as if trying to twist his neck off, his eyes wide, his breath heavy."It can¡¯t be! It can¡¯t be!"

    With those words, the Crown Prince vanished from the pce like a bolt of golden light, rushing towards the west, towards the Immortal Asylum.

    "What happened?"

    The Three Great Constetions, Northstar Sword Devil, Combat Sovereign, and other officials were all puzzled by this sudden change.

    "His Highness has gone to see His Majesty," Empress Zhao murmured in shock. "Could it be that the Five Infernos Star Barrier has indeed failed?"

    Her words sent a chilling wave through the hearts of all the assembled Immortals.

    "Impossible, that is the foundation passed down through countless generations of the Celestial Court..." the Nine Arcanes Constetion said, shaking her head.

    "His Majesty once said that the Five Infernos Star Barrier was bestowed by our great ancestors. From the founding of the dynasty, no man nor beast has been able to breach it!" the Heaven-Reaching Constetion said through clenched teeth.

    They had not underestimated Lu Fan; rather, this situation was shattering their worldview, even more so than Yun Xiao¡¯s rapid rise just days before.

    In the Taiwei Imperial Pce, a brief deathly silence was shattered into a restless stir.

    "Silence, it should be nothing; cease your disputes!"

    With the Crown Prince gone, Empress Zhao stood as the highest authority present. At her sternmand, calm returned. Yet, in the very next moment, the Crown Prince had returned to his throne!

    His return cast a pall over the entire Taiwei Imperial Pce, as if it had plummeted from the heights of the heavens into a deep abyss.

    The ashen and frosty countenance of the Crown Prince told all that a grave matter had indeed unfolded.

    Without waiting for questions, the Crown Prince coldly announced, "The Five Infernos Star Barrier has mysteriously vanished, and the forces of Naraka are advancing straight for the Heavenly Pce!"

    This promation sent a wave of shock throughout the assembly. Everyone was in disbelief, yet it was the Crown Prince who spoke these words¡ªand he was the one who found it hardest to ept!

    "Mobilize the Constetion Army and all 18 Department Legions to defend the Heavenly Pce immediately. Set up our defenses around the perimeter of the Taiwei Eight Trigrams Life and Death Sacred Emperor Formation! y the demons and devils, and protect our divine ruler over the heavens!" the Crown Princemanded, quickly recovering from the shock and setting forth his response.

    This Sacred Emperor Formation, a portion of which included the white jade steps of the Divine Gateway, ranked second among the grand formations of the Celestial Court. It was just below the Five Infernos Star Barrier and above the Thunder Immortal Formation. Its purpose, historically, was not to fend off external threats but to delineate the prestige within the heavenly hierarchy.

    No one had ever breached the Five Infernos Star Barrier to reach the Sacred Emperor Formation!

    After the Crown Prince spoke, the entire Taiwei Imperial Pce seemed aze with urgency.

    "Yes!"

    The Three Great Constetions, various Rank 1 Sovereigns, and Rank 2 Heavenly Officers¡ªanyone holding military responsibilities¡ªacted immediately.

    With their deployment, the divinend of the Celestial Court too seemed set ame.

    "Your Highness, are we certain the forces of Naraka are targeting the Heavenly Pce?" Empress Zhao inquired, fraught with concern.

    "Those two monsters have eyes only for the Immortal Asylum," the Crown Prince replied with a cold sneer.

    "The Heavenly Pce is protected by the Sacred Emperor Formation; we can lie in wait and crush our opponents. But what if the enemy targets our other territories and cities?" Empress Zhao pressed with worry.

    Many of the assembled Immortals shared her concern. The divinend of the Celestial Court was the imperial family¡¯s core territory, protected by the Constetion Army. However, the 18 Department Legions also had to rush over to support the Heavenly Pce...n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The Thunder Department''s Arbiters were among these 18 Department Legions.

    More than half the officials present had roots and family outside the Heavenly Pce.

    The Crown Prince¡¯s eyes narrowed coldly as he fixed a chilling nce on Empress Zhao, then dered measuredly, "The Heavenly Pce is the heart of the Great Dao Celestial Realm. As long as the heart beats, the realm lives. Now that the Five Infernos Star Barrier has failed, we¡¯re thrust into battle. To think we can emerge unscathed is folly. Should sacrifices be made, posterity will erect monuments to the fallen!"

    It was a stark reality all the officials knew too well.

    Despite some unease, the assembled Immortals understood priorities.

    The Heavenly Pce, the imperial dynasty¡¯s throne, demanded their utmost defense. Only by first stabilizing the chaos brought by the failure of the Five Infernos Star Barrier could they hope to break through this crisis.

    "Esteemed immortals," the Crown Prince addressed the officials, "The failure of the Five Infernos Star Barrier is an unprecedented cmity. Now, as the Great Dao Celestial Realm falls into turmoil, it is upon us all to unite and endure this catastrophe for the sake of humanity¡ªbehind us stand countless human lives across the mortal realms! We cannot afford to lose this battle!"

    His voice boomed through the Taiwei Imperial Pce, rallying the Immortals.

    "For humanity! For the lineage of humans and Immortals!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the jurisdiction of the Thunder Department, to the south, was Sky Soaring City.

    This city, floating amidst the Celestial Sourcecore, had just seen the end of its day.

    As usual, the dark canopy of night descended like a monstrous beast swallowing the city whole.

    However, behind the dark shroud, the Great Dao Celestial Army appeared.

    Composed almost entirely ofmoners, their primary duty was to defend the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Yet tonight, they mobilized en masse, surrounding a frontier city popted by low ranking Immortals until it waspletely sealed off.

    Nightfall in Sky Soaring City, when the concentration of celestial energy waned and was least suited for cultivation, marked the beginning of the city¡¯s enchanting nightlife.

    Unaware of the night¡¯s unusual circumstances, the citizens began to illuminate the streets with lights and decorations.

    Music and song filled the air above Sky Soaring City.

    During these days, without a Rank 6 Heavenly Officer governing them, the citizens, listening daily to the myths of Lu Yao, seemed happier.

    The people of the Lu Immortal Manor had nearly all perished.

    Many came from afar to visit Lu Yao¡¯s home, curious about the small courtyard that witnessed two of the Celestial Court¡¯s miracles, wondering about the magic it held.

    A few celestial pigs, though ownerless, were fattened by tourists.

    The tale of the vendetta between Lu Yao and his <em>father</em> Lu Bufan had spread throughout Sky Soaring City.

    In today''s Sky Soaring City, ask anyone, and without hesitation, they would side with Lu Yao.

    Especially after the Great Dao Celestial Army and Naraka jointly attacked the Thunder Department, the people of Sky Soaring City did not believe that Lu Fan was innocent.

    Emboldened by the recent rise of Lu Yao and contempt for a man who''d abandoned his wife and children, Sky Soaring City was the only ce where people dared to openly criticize Lu Fan.

    The Celestial Court still hadn''t disclosed Yun Xiao''s true identity. So, to everyone across the Great Dao Celestial Realm, he remained Lu Yao¡ªa dashing young Arbiter who was pursuing his dreams.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Esteemed immortals," the Crown Prince addressed the officials, "The failure of the Five Infernos Star Barrier is an unprecedented cmity. Now, as the Great Dao Celestial Realm falls into turmoil, it is upon us all to unite and endure this catastrophe for the sake of humanity¡ªbehind us stand countless human lives across the mortal realms! We cannot afford to lose this battle!"</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 689: One City, Two Legends!

    Chapter 689: One City, Two Legends!

    "Sun Xiaoqi is here!"

    The Drunken Immortal Pavilion had found itstest darling in Sun Xiaoqi. Her presence alone could transform the ce into a hub of excitement. Each day, new faces gathered, eager to glean tales of Lu Yao from her lips.

    The previous day''s battle, where Yun Xiao wreaked havoc within the Thunder Department, only fueled tonight''s buzz in Sky Soaring City. Fresh, sizzling gossip flew through the air.

    Surrounded by a crowd, a girl in a yellow dress stood out, her eyes wide as saucers. This was Sun Xiaoqi, a girl once crippled by social anxiety, now a social butterfly forged in the furnace of necessity. As long as there was food, she could spin tales about Yun Xiao, embellishing them with zest and zeal.

    "Shopkeeper, shopkeeper," she began, clutching the greasy sleeve of a portly man, whispering, "For drawing a crowd today, could my order of the True Fire Roasted Celestial Crane be on the house?"

    The shopkeeper shook his head vehemently. "Your appetite grows each day, miss. Our signature dish is limited to three servings daily, and you want it for free? Impossible!"

    "Not possible?" Sun Xiaoqi scoffed, "Then I''ll take my stories to the Fragrant Jade Pavilion next door."

    "Wait, wait," the flustered shopkeeper pleaded, his face a portrait of bitterness. "Fine, fine, it''s on the house, you brat."

    "Cut the act. You''ve made a fortune off me these past days. Be thankful I haven''t taken a cut of your profits." Sun Xiaoqi red at him, then advised, "It''s not your shabby tavern that draws me here, but the plump celestial cranes in your kitchen. Cook it well!""I will, I''ll do it myself." The shopkeeper resigned himself and walked away.

    "Insufferable man, acting as if he''s at a loss when he''s making a killing. Such a miser." Sun Xiaoqi watched him go, her re sharp as knives. But for the sake of the roasted crane, she forgave him.

    She then stepped into the crowd, offering a warm smile to the eagerly awaiting patrons. "Honestly, from the first moment I saw Lu Yao, I knew he was no ordinary man..."

    And so she began her lengthy discourse, asionally pausing to field questions.

    The entire Drunken Immortal Pavilion basked in the glow of reverence for Lu Yao, enveloped in joyful camaraderie.

    A young man asked, "Sister Sun, did Lu Yao ever share his thoughts on Lu Bufan with you?"

    Sun Xiaoqi was momentarily startled and, fearing Lu Bufan, she replied, "He never spoke of that."

    The young man, disappointed, huffed softly and said, "To receive such fortune, yet to abandon his wife and children, his blind wife and harmed eldest son disregarded, and to seek the immediate execution of his rising younger son¡ªhow can such a man be worthy of being a Rank 1 Sovereign? How can hemand the Great Dao Celestial Army?"

    Though he spoke under his breath, some nearby still heard.

    "Shush," Sun Xiaoqi quickly motioned for him to be silent. Such topics were dangerous to discuss openly in Sky Soaring City, especially since the city was without its usual overseers, and speaking so brazenly could attract trouble.

    But the young man, caught in his emotions, didn¡¯t see the danger and continued to mutter, "And what of thest incident with the Projection Orbs concerning the incense offerings? Why has it faded into silence? For Lu Bufan to rise to high office shows just how rotten things are at the top!"

    "Would you just be quiet?" The corpulent shopkeeper emerged from the crowd, grabbed the young man, and dragged him away.

    "Father, be gentle!" the young man cried out in pain.

    "Go home and stay there. Don¡¯te back to the Drunken Immortal Pavilion!" The shopkeeper handed him over to several guards and huffed back to his roasting.

    This was but a minor incident, yet it cast a shadow over the mood.

    For reasons unknown, the crowd felt a weight upon their hearts, a heaviness like mountains pressing down, making it hard to breathe.

    "What¡¯s the point of cultivating if we¡¯re stuck in Sky Soaring City every day, unable to even visit the mortal realms? It seems utterly pointless."

    "Yes¡­"

    "Ore veins, celestial artifacts, celestial techniques¡­ The real resources for advancing one''s cultivation are all held by the noble ns under the control of the Celestial Court. Our generation really has no chance of ascending."

    "What ascent? To be a Rank 9 Arbiter is already the pinnacle for ordinary folks."

    "Be content. Those who be Immortals live for centuries, far better off than mortals."

    The group gathered together, quietly sharing their sense of futility.

    "Let¡¯s not be too pessimistic, the world is a beautiful ce, and the Great Dao Celestial Realm will only get better!" Sun Xiaoqi said, biting her lip.

    "Miss Sun possesses an optimism that¡¯s truly enviable," several elders remarked.

    "Yes."

    With that, the crowd finallyughed, the atmosphere growing warm again.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Many enjoyeding here not just for the bustle but because they harbored grievances about many things; listening to her gave them a bit of hope.

    The Chaos Sovereign, Lu Bufan, had once represented hope, but years had passed with little change.

    And the shopkeeper¡¯s son had merely voiced what many dared not say.

    Why did the high officials speak so secretly of incense offerings?

    Why couldn''t themon Immortals enter the mortal realm?

    Why had no mortals ascended in so long, and when the Ascension Pool was destroyed, why did it suddenly produce a batch of ascenders?

    Then, why did they vanish again?

    What truly lurked behind the dark canopy of this world?

    Liu Mumu and everything she revealed that night had not been forgotten by anyone. It''s just that no one dared to speak of it.

    They were frightened because, as things continued this way, whatever the truth was, it would eventually be forgotten.

    So, seeing Sun Xiaoqi''s youthful face, they felt a little less afraid.

    Together, they chatted about happy things, and the Drunken Immortal Pavilion grew livelier.

    All was joyous and harmonious.

    In such a moment, suddenly, the entire world seemed to freeze. Everyone''s expressions stiffened as an invisible, deadly fear gripped them.

    "What''s happening..." Sun Xiaoqi, with a leg of celestial crane stuffed in her mouth, looked up in confusion.

    "Let''s go outside and see!"

    Crowds rushed out of the Drunken Immortal Pavilion, spilling onto the streets!

    Once outside, they saw that Sky Soaring City was filled with pale-faced people, all sharing an inexplicable terror.

    It was as if the entire city had been pushed to the gates of theherworld!

    "The Great Dao Celestial Army!"

    Voices filled with unexined yet instinctual fear swept through Sky Soaring City.

    Above, in the churning ck clouds under the dark canopy, rows of indifferent soldiers d in armor arrayed across the heavens. Countless cold eyes stared down at the city.

    Above and all around, the Great Dao Celestial Army surrounded everything!

    Sky Soaring City waspletely encircled!

    Why? What were they nning to do? The citizens harbored endless questions, but with not a single Rank 6 Heavenly Officer among them, naturally, no one dared to step forward and ask.

    At that time, the Celestial Court''s warrant on the Chaos Sovereign hadn''t even reached Sky Soaring City yet!

    "The Great Dao Celestial Army is here to protect the realm, to protect us. They shouldn''t mean us any harm."

    "Right, perhaps Sky Soaring City has been harboring too many devils."

    People began to reassure themselves.

    "What sort of devils and twisted paths could possibly justify deploying the entire Great Dao Celestial Army to surround the city?"

    From the direction of the Drunken Immortal Pavilion, the young man pointed to the sky, his voice trembling, "Lu Bufan has always been a ruthless man, stopping at nothing to get his way! He must be nning to ughter everyone in Sky Soaring City to force Lu Yao out!"

    This statement terrified many.

    "Shut up!"

    The corpulent shopkeeper, livid, pped his son back into the Drunken Immortal Pavilion, then bowed and wept before the crowd, "Please, he''s just a child speaking nonsense. Pretend you heard nothing, and spare my family, I beg you."

    After pleading, he repeatedly kowtowed.

    "Uh..." Sun Xiaoqi had an idea, "Bowing alone won''t do¡ªlet''s give everyone a 10% discount from now on!"

    The shopkeeper, no longer stingy, quickly agreed, casting a grateful nce at Sun Xiaoqi.

    In truth, the people around had no intention of reporting anything, for the boy had merely voiced their deepest fears.

    For many years, they had known the character of the Chaos Sovereign. He was brazen, unconcerned with good or evil; if provoked, he would ughter men, women, the elderly, children, and infants alike without distinction.

    A model of ruthless decisiveness.

    And now, everything cold and detached in the sky seemed like a dark hand covering the heavens, ready to sp Sky Soaring City in its grip!

    <em>THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! </em>Every heart began to race.

    "May Lu Yao protect us..." Sun Xiaoqi knelt quietly on the ground, cing the leg of the celestial crane in her mouth, then sped her hands together, silently praying.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>ROAR! </em>From the highest heavens came the resounding call of dragons.

    Within the swirling ck mists, streams of golden light surged as the Nine Dragons Agarwood Chariot soared across the sky, descending above Sky Soaring City.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The golden lotuses on its frame radiated a dazzling brilliance, illuminating all of Sky Soaring City.

    "Emperor Fan!"

    The Peni Sage, the Great Horned King, and the eight Supreme Generals, almost imperceptibly changed their address, as Lu Fan donned the yellow imperial robes, ready for a change of dynasty!

    Their gaze, along with his, was fixed upon Sky Soaring City.

    With a knowing smile, the Peni Sage said, "Both Yun Xiao and that girl are like the little heroes of the mortal realm, their weaknesses too evident."

    "You truly understand them,ing up with such a fine n." Lu Fan bowed his head, his eyes darkly fixed on the faces of fear and confusion within Sky Soaring City, and said, "Ascenders alone are not enough; to truly press them, it requires a city."

    "We needn''t ughter them all, just make an example. Otherwise, it mightplicate your dominion over the Great Dao Celestial Realmter," the Peni Sage advised.

    "Complicate?" Lu Fan turned his head, smiling at the Peni Sage.

    The Peni Sage, startled, quickly bowed his head, "Your divine might covers the world, all beneath the heavens, both mortal and Immortal, will naturally submit."

    "You understand me." Lu Fan smiled, pping him on the shoulder. "In this world where the strong prey on the weak, only power can subdue all else; these so-called virtues, public sentiments, and rules are like dew on a lotus leaf¡ªseemingly vibrant, yet disappearing at a touch."

    "Understood!"

    The Immortals nodded solemnly, enlightened.

    Lu Fan nced at the dark canopy above and said, "The time is about right. I''ll start by setting the city aze with the Samsara Soul Fire. The sooner they arrive, the fewer people I''ll be forced to kill."

    Hearing this, the Great Horned Kingughed heartily. "Excellent, tonight we shall see how many souls these two little heroes can save."

 Chapter 690: Life and Death Eight Trigrams

    Chapter 690: Life and Death Eight Trigrams

    The Heavenly Pce was never cloaked in darkness, yet now it dimmed. Not by a curtain of night, but by a swarm of demons and devils from Naraka, their numbers vast, their forms colossal, their natures cruel.

    These celestial demons and devils unleashed ear-splitting howls and war cries, their savage sounds swallowing the divinend of the Celestial Court.

    Thunderous roars echoed as the Constetion Army mobilized.

    As the protectors of the Heavenly Pce, they maintained high discipline. Even in such chaos, they organized swiftly, ascending and flying towards the eight critical points of the Sacred Emperor Barrier.

    Stationed at these points, backed by the grand formation, they stood like sentinels atop ramparts, overlooking their foes,manding the terrain.

    "The Crown Prince himself oversees the battle,manding from the front of the Three Great Constetions! All Rank 1 and 2 Heavenly Officers are present!"

    "Victory to the Celestial Court! Victory to Immortals!"

    Their loud and authoritative chants drowned out the howls of the countless demons and devils.

    Compared to the ordered and well-trained celestial army, the invaders from Naraka seemed much more chaotic.The celestial devils were manageable, but the celestial demons, unable to shed their beastly nature, were ferociously undisciplined.

    Yet, their ferocity and greed were also their strengths, for in their fearlessness in the face of death, the demons surpassed the celestial troops.

    "Prepare for battle!"

    With amanding roar from the Crown Prince, a solemn silence descended, as if a tide swept across the Celestial Court.

    Above, countless demons and devils stirred a sky-obscuring fog of malevolence, like a tempestuous sea poised to crash down upon them.

    Only through this demonic miasma could one see the sea''s hidden crimson eyes and vicious fangs.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>As the first wave of the demonic assault reached the Constetion Army, a giant eight-trigram array suddenly materialized between them.

    Its form resembled a massive stump-shaped barrier, locking down the Heavenly Pce.

    This eight-pointed array,yered in ck and white, matched the octagonal shape of the Immortal Asylum, reminiscent of the one seen back in the Nine Hells.

    But this Sacred Emperor Barrier was muchrger, itsyers representing the forces of life and death.

    Inside the Sacred Emperor Barrier, not the five elemental energies of the Five Infernos Star Barrier nor the thunderous might of the Thunder Immortal Formation held sway, but rather the formidable energies of life and death!

    The force of life infused the Constetion Army, seeping into their beings, bolstering theirbat strength and self-healing capabilities, making them fiercer with every skirmish.

    Meanwhile, the force of death naturally gravitated toward the demons and devils, corroding their flesh and essence, as if they were trapped in a poisonous miasma, struggling for every step.

    In terms of sheer destructive capability, the Sacred Emperor Barrier surpassed the Five Infernos Star Barrier, making it the most lethal in the Celestial Court!

    This was the source of confidence for the Crown Prince and officials.

    "The Eight Trigrams Life and Death sub-array has been activated. The gates of life and death are revolving. This ground belongs to the Celestial Court. Whichever corner of the vast expanse you hail from, you shall be annihted, body and soul!"

    The Crown Prince''s cold and imperious voice swept across the battlefield, striking terror into the hearts of the demonic horde.

    At that very first sh against the energies of life and death, the impact of the deathly force was a brutal awakening. Many demons and devils who dared prate the Sacred Emperor Barrier changed color, their bodies trembling, gasping for breath as blood spurted from their mouths and noses.

    "Charge!!" The Three Great Constetions, along with various officials, seeing their chance, roared in unison, their killing intent soaring to the heavens.

    In an instant, celestial weapons, Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and a few Anima Immortal spiritsunched three ferocious waves of assaults, slicing through the ranks of Naraka''s army!

    The sky was a spray of blood and flesh.

    From the outset, the battlefield was nothing short of carnage, with the Sacred Emperor Barrier acting like a giant meat grinder.

    "We, the human race, are the pinnacle of all beings, superior in our spiritual path, our methods, and our civilizing virtues, above these brutish demons and devils!"

    "What can these primitive creatures, these eaters of raw flesh, hope to achieve against us?"

    "Leaving their wretched Naraka was but to deliver their heads to us over 1,000 miles."

    "Brothers, take no prisoners, im all that is due."

    "So what if we don''t have the Five Infernos Star Barrier! They need the handicap!"

    The results of this initial sh inted the spirits of the Constetion Army, their outlook ever more optimistic.

    This bolstered not just their confidence but ensured they struck harder, not out of underestimation, but from a ce of unyielding ferocity!

    The force of life not only strengthened their essence and physical resilience but also spurred their spirits, making them even more disdainful and fierce.

    The buzz of energy filled the air as the Constetion Army pressed back against their foes within the Sacred Emperor Barrier.

    Led by the Martial Peak Constetion, the Martial Immortals headed the vanguard, paving the path forward with offensive and defensive celestial weapons. Behind them, the Inscription Immortals led by the Nine Arcanes Constetion cast a volley of celestial treasures, techniques, and formations.

    Yet, the most lethal of these forces were the Sword Immortals, led by the Heaven-Reaching Constetion. This elite band of imperial Sword Immortals surpassed even those of the Immortal Sword Court in prowess.

    These Sword Immortals, positioned on the nks of the Martial and Inscription Immortals, mastered Sovereign Sword flight, their agility unmatched. They couldunch devastating long-range Flying Sword attacks or engage in close-quartersbat with the Palm Sword. And if overwhelmed, they could swiftly retreat with their swords, making them the most formidable and elusive foes on the battlefield.

    "With the support of the Sacred Emperor Barrier at our backs, once we crush the enemy''s core strength and morale, the 18 supporting legions can strike from behind, encircling and annihting these demons and devils right here!"

    "Forever ending the menace of Naraka!"

    With these thoughts, the Constetion Army''s resolve swelled, their ambitions growing to utterly destroy Naraka.

    They seemed to forget why the White Emperor and Crown Prince had spread the method of receiving incense offerings throughout the Celestial Court, and what pressures hadpelled them to do so!

    Just as the Constetion Army and Naraka''s forces shed, turning the battlefield into a river of blood, a massive mountain of flesh fell from the sky into the midst of the Sacred Emperor Barrier.

    A foul stench of death and decay erupted, forming a dense, ghastly green fog that swept across the battlefield and rolled into the Heavenly Pce, enveloping it in a nauseating miasma of rot.

    It was an utterly suffocating sight.

    Perhaps the demons and devils of Naraka were ustomed to such stenches, but the Constetion Army was certainly not.

    "This smell..."

    "Damn it!"

    It was like being locked in a sealed room with dozens of dposing, maggot-infested, pus-leaking corpses!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    One by one, the Constetion Army''s soldiers turned pale, their stomachs churning, and they vomited on the spot!

    The life force of the Sacred Emperor Barrier seemed ineffective against the stench of decay.

    And that was not the end of it!

    As the Great Mother descended onto the battlefield, countless streams of the death force actively sought her out, forming numerous mouths on her body that greedily absorbed the deathly energy.

    The buzz was ominous as the forces of decay, naturally meant to rot flesh, assailed the Great Mother, a being already an amalgamation of decayed corpses.

    As vast amounts of this deadly energy flooded into her, the mountain of flesh and corpses she embodied grew more foul, more decayed, and more repulsive to behold. Yet, it did not shrink; rather, it seemed to swell with a more dreadful presence as it absorbed the deathly force.

    From within this grotesque mass, hundreds of thousands of long necks sprang forth, each topped with a demon''s head, darting into the fray like arrows, snapping at the celestial soldiers.

    "Great Mother! Great Mother!"

    For the first time in the Heavenly Pce, and in her initial foray, the Great Mother almost nullified the power of the Sacred Emperor Barrier!

    Her terror was palpable. She was the very entity that the White Emperor had most dreaded!

    Her reversal of the situation invigorated the demonic horde; their eyes turned a bloodshot red, their ferocity fully unleashed!

    The frustration they had felt was now matched by their brutality!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Naraka''s counterattack began in earnest!

    As the Constetion Army started falling, their grand formation disrupted, their inted confidence and pride were brutally shattered!

    Seeingrades and friends torn asunder and devoured by the demons, the hearts of many celestial soldiers were rent with horror.

    This brutal reality made them deeply realize that war was no trivial matter. This was not a simplemand of tactics but a critical moment for the survival of the Celestial Court and humanity!

    "Do not worry, someone will handle the Great Mother!"

    Thankfully, just then, the Crown Prince''s firm deration steadied the hearts of the Immortals.

    "And we still have the support of the 18 Department Legions!"

    "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

    As the Sacred Emperor Barrier and Great Mother unleashed their might in turn, the battlefield was momentarily bnced again. Both sides shed fiercely, trading blows with flesh and blood, each life fiercely defending its side.

    For a time, neither could break the stalemate.

    "Devil Eye!"

    Dissatisfied, the Great Mother''s gaze turned beyond the Sacred Emperor Barrier!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 691: Your Beloved

    Chapter 691: Your Beloved

    In the mist-shrouded battleground, a vast, blood-red eye loomed, not joining the fray but scrutinizing from above.

    "I seek the location of the Celestial Court''s Crown Prince," the Devil Eye responded calmly.

    "Hurry!" the Great Mother barked viciously.

    "Aren''t you the one who delights in death¡ªbe it demon, devil, or Immortal? This is your paradise; the more you fight, the stronger you be. What''s the rush?" the Devil Eye retorted.

    The Great Mother sneered coldly, choosing not to address the question.

    Her silence spoke volumes; the Devil Eye spoke the truth.

    How could she care for a few dead demons? To her, they were mere sustenance. Tired of devouring demons, she now craved a feast of countless humans!

    "Found him."

    Within the swirling demon fog, the blood-red eye captured a silhouette in its pupil, amidst the bloody battlefield below. Yet, this was not the Crown Prince.She stood seven feet tall, a figure like a crimson whirlwind among the chaos, her presence causing the battlefield''s blood not to fall but to swirl towards her.

    "How sly. Even the Great Mother hasn''t noticed someone stealing her spoils," the Devil Eye mused, its gaze deep and profound.

    It watched the figure quietly, assimting the blood of the battlefield.

    This was the steamy blood of Immortals, devils, and demons¡ªideal for crafting Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    "War indeed makes one wealthy quickly!" The War Princess felt this deeply as she continued her merciless ughter through the crowd of Immortals, devils, and demons.

    Suddenly, a sinister gaze fell upon her. Stopping in her tracks, she looked up to find the Devil Eye watching her calmly through the blood and carnage.

    To her surprise, the voice of the Devil Eye reached her ears, "Youngdy, the one you hold dear, he''s in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, isn''t he?"

    Hearing this, the War Princess stood frozen.

    "Ask how it knows!" Yun Xiao''s voice within her heart urged.

    She nodded and posed the question to the Devil Eye.

    The Devil Eye chuckled and shook its head. "I possess only this one eye, capable of seeing through all."

    "You''ve gifted me the Sanguine Phantom, and now you''re probing my secrets further. Speak inly your intentions," the War Princess said.

    "May I speak with your beloved?" the Devil Eye asked.

    "Speaking to me is the same," she replied.

    After a moment''s contemtion, the Devil Eye spoke with earnest depth, "No matter who he is, the Celestial Devil Abyss and I vow to support him. Ask him what he needs of me."

    "Ah?" The War Princess thought she had misheard. She looked downward and asked, "Are you deaf? Did you not hear it im it sees through all? It knows better than anyone who is the best bet!"

    "Alright... then what should I say?" the War Princess asked.

    "Tell it to bide its time. Today, let the battle rage on, minimizing losses among the devils. When I need it, I will give themand," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Very well!"

    The War Princess ryed Yun Xiao''s words to the Devil Eye.

    The Devil Eye, seeming to have anticipated this, responded, "Please ry my thanks for his eptance."

    "No need," the War Princess said.

    "Why?" the Devil Eye asked.

    "Because he himself has arrived," she suddenly pointed behind the Devil Eye, slightly haughty, "He hase for me."

    As the Devil Eye turned its gaze upon hearing these words, through the swirling miasma and magic, the Azure Rain Sword Vessel appeared. A young man in white emerged from it.

    Amid the howling wind, his ck hair billowed and his white robe remained untouched by dust, his divine countenance as if sculpted by the heavens.

    The Devil Eye stared, its huge orb trembling, caught in the greatest shock and confusion of its existence.

    Never had it been so utterly perplexed.

    Yun Xiao spared it only a nce before swooping past, descending swiftly towards the battlefield!

    The Devil Eye trembled anew, turning back again.

    From then on, its gaze fixed manically on that singr figure in white, not blinking for even a moment.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Damn, that stinks!"

    Yun Xiao had endured the Great Mother''s odor with his body double, but confronting it in person was still unbearable. He attached the Prison Warden Sigil to himself, finding immediate relief.

    From his vantage point, Yun Xiao surveyed the battlefield¡ªa veritable meat grinder where celestial forces shed amidst a storm of blood and viscera, neither side gaining the upper hand. The demons fought most ferociously, their desire for a paradise like the Celestial Court fueling their brutality.

    "The losses are great on both sides! Keep fighting, harder and harder, fight to the death!" Yun Xiao muttered coldly, a smile tracing his lips as his gaze finally locked onto the Great Mother.

    The Great Mother, having absorbed the majority of the death energy, swept across the battlefield with the stench of corpses and fresh blood, almost defying the heavens. She killed and feasted simultaneously.

    "Let''s give her a little cleanse and see how she reacts."

    With those words, Yun Xiao transformed into a streak of white light and stealthily approached the mountain of flesh and corpses.

    Unconcerned with such a minor nuisance, the Great Mother, seemingly immortal in her own right, paid him no heed.

    In a sh, Yun Xiao stood amidst the miasma of decay on her surface.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>He ced the Prison Warden Sigil on the fleshly mound.

    Sizzling like fire, the Life Sigil burned away the stench of decay.

    Caught in her frenzy, the Great Mother experienced a pleasure unknown in her lifetime, issuing a call so loud it echoed throughout the Celestial Court, bewildering countless Immortals, demons, and devils. It was perhaps the most deafening moan the world had ever heard¡ªa sensation deep to the bone.

    It felt like dislodging a massive chunk of earwax.

    BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! The flesh mountain trembled violently, its shaking intense.

    "Ah, Agh, AGH!"

    After several cries, the Great Mother''s massive body began to shrink, and in an instant, the mountain of flesh and corpses disappeared.

    Standing before Yun Xiao was an eight-foot-tall giantess with waterfall-like hair and a slender body, her impossibly long legs memorable despite her not being strikingly beautiful¡ªa sight one couldn''t easily forget.

    At that moment, she was still trembling, her eyes as wide as bell ppers, fixed intently on Yun Xiao and the Prison Warden Sigil in his hand.

    "This is, this is¡­" The Great Mother''s voice quivered, clearly recognizing the significance of the Life Sigil to her, much like a ghostly whisper of revtion.

    "Don''t move." Yun Xiao, holding the Prison Warden Sigil in one hand and Heaven Burial Sword Soul in the other, took advantage of the Great Mother''s bewildered ecstasy. He thrust the sword into her abdomen!

    "Uh?" The Great Mother frowned, her eyes narrowing into a cold re of displeasure.

    But Yun Xiao was quick. His hand plunged into the Great Mother''s body, retrieving a silver-white orb of flesh.

    That silver orb merged into Yun Xiao''s body and vanished. This was why he hade¡ªto retrieve his body double!

    "Are you in league with that fox?" The Great Mother''s brows shot up in suspicion.

    She had not managed to consume Moon Fairy herself¡ªa gnawing issue she couldn''t understand these past days.

    "So what if I am?" Yun Xiao asked coolly.

    The Great Mother''s face twisted with greed as her eyes immediately coveted the Prison Warden Sigil in Yun Xiao''s hand.

    With a swift movement, she reached out to snatch the Life Sigil, clearly intending to im it as her own.

    "You''re really not endearing," Yun Xiao shook his head.

    He had given the Great Mother a chance, but her greed was overpowering. Her enlightenment was clearly less than that of Pale Revenant. Instead of purification, her first instinct was to grab.

    Yun Xiao would not give a second chance to such a naturally greedy corpse demon. After all, in the world of devouring, being devoured or devouring others, having two was meaningless!

    "Goodbye!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Prison Warden Sigil suddenly transformed into the Runic Umbre. The absorbed miasma burst forth, striking the Great Mother''s face.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <em>BOOM! </em>Once all the miasma had been expelled, the Great Mother was left facing nothing but a fog of decay.

    The boy had vanished! And Moon Fairy was gone too!

    "NOOOO!" The Great Mother gasped for air, then roared upwards, her face contorting into a demonic grimace, a testament to her rage.

    None could fathom just how much she had been affected!

    Below, the War Princess, while refining blood, watched the entire scene unfold.

    "Follow me," Yun XIao''s voice rang out within her heart.

    "Aren''t we continuing the blood refinement? What a waste," the War Princess remarked.

    "There''s blood on the other battlefield too, and I need you there more. Let''s go!"

 Chapter 692: Four Women, One Man!

    Chapter 692: Four Women, One Man!

    Outside of the battle of the Heavenly Pce, the Azure Sword Rain Vessel hovered in a shroud of fiery mist.

    Yun Xiao, apanied by the War Princess towering over him by a foot, returned through the drifting clouds.

    As they approached, the hatch of the Azure Rain Sword Vessel immediately swung open.

    "Is someone inside?"

    The War Princess stooped to enter the narrow cabin of the sword vessel, her dark crimson eyes swiftly scanning everything within. Inside, a seemingly young girl in a blue dress managed the vessel''s helm. A silver-haired woman stood motionless beside her, and a twin pony-tailed demon maid squatted in the corner, her eyes hauntingly fixed on Yun Xiao and the War Princess as they entered.

    The War Princess had met two of these women before. Yet upon entering, she couldn''t help but tease, "yboy Yun, you''ve been really getting around, huh? What¡¯s this, aplete set of ages and types?¡±

    Yun Xiao shot her a re and said, ¡°Watch your words. These two are my master and foster mother.¡±

    ¡°Foster mother¡­¡±

    Truth be told, it wasn''t until the War Princess heard these words that she realized Gu Suwan wasn''t truly a young girl but rather a youthful exterior with a matron¡¯s core¡ªfar more intriguing!With that thought, the War Princess scoffed and rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m older than you too. Why don¡¯t you call me mommy?¡±

    Yun Xiao found her increasingly tsundere. With no time to deal with her antics, he hurried Gu Suwan to set course for Sky Soaring City as swiftly as possible, while introducing the War Princess, ¡°This is my little servant. Pay her no mind.¡±

    ¡°Greetings, Miss Yao Yao,¡± Yue Yin said, who had met her before and knew her name.

    Gu Suwan greeted her too, then pondered, ¡°Little servant?¡±

    Sharp in discerning subtleties, Gu Suwan noticed the War Princess¡¯ ease around Yun Xiao and understood their deep connection.

    The term <em>little servant</em>, as she saw it, signified a profoundly intimate rtionship.

    With this realization, Gu Suwan felt a surge of satisfaction.

    ¡°You see, Cao Shuo, you¡¯re not the only one in his heart.¡±

    Gu Suwan had long harbored disdain for Cao Shuo. And seeing Cao Shuo recently so pleased with herself only irked her further.

    Stealing another nce at the War Princess, Gu Suwan silently admired, ¡°This devil woman¡¯s natural grace surpasses even the famed seductresses of the Thunder Department. She bears the exotic charm of foreignnds, youthful yet immensely gifted... indeed, she is the rightful primary consort.¡±

    With this realization, Gu Suwan¡¯s understanding of Yun Xiao¡¯s preferences solidified.

    ¡°He prefers them ethereal and untainted, purely wild at heart¡­¡±

    Such was the storm of thoughts among the four women in the confined space of the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, all swirling around one man in mere moments.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The War Princess naturally positioned herself at the center of the sword vessel, assuming the air of a mistress.

    Yue Yin and Gu Suwan observed quietly. In front of the War Princess, even the normally unyielding Pale Revenant seemed to cower, instinctively understanding the pecking order.

    Yun Xiao, however, remained oblivious to these inner tempests, his mind preupied with urgent matters concerning Sky Soaring City, his eyes smoldering with the intensity of moltenva.

    As the Azure Rain Sword Vessel swiftly distanced itself from the battlefield of the Heavenly Pce, he had no choice but to wait.

    ¡°You¡­¡± Yun Xiao addressed the War Princess, who stood arms crossed, idly swinging her long legs, looking for all the world unengaged. ¡°You''re a true handful every day.¡±

    ¡°What now?¡± the War Princess retorted, biting her lip.

    ¡°Outside,¡± Yun Xiao said, and then to Gu Suwan, ¡°Open the hatch.¡±

    Gu Suwan paused, hesitant.

    ¡°Why send me away now?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sending you away,¡± Yun Xiao pointed upwards, ¡°Sit atop the sword vessel. It¡¯s time to confront your tribtion.¡±

    ¡°The Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion is approaching?¡± the War Princess asked. Though she was the owner of her body, her understanding of spiritual matters was not as clear as Yun Xiao¡¯s.

    ¡°I¡¯ve drawn it close. Hurry,¡± Yun Xiao urged.

    ¡°Seriously?¡± Gu Suwan was taken aback. ¡°You want her to face her tribtion sitting on top of the sword vessel? It¡¯s dangerous. Shouldn¡¯t we stop somewhere?¡±

    ¡°No need,¡± Yun Xiao said curtly.

    With both Yun Xiao and the War Princess in agreement, Gu Suwan reluctantlyplied and opened the door.

    Outside, the storm raged; wind howled and lightning crackled.

    ¡°To undergo tribtion atop the Azure Rain Sword Vessel... I fear the lightning might not even catch us,¡± Gu Suwan half-joked, halfined.

    ¡°That¡¯s for the heavens to worry about. We just follow the process,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    Gu Suwan could only express her awe. ¡°Terrifying, indeed.¡±

    As her words fell, the War Princess swung her long legs in a graceful leap,nding atop the Azure Rain Sword Vessel and settling into a seated position.

    Outside, a tempest of fire and wind raged fiercely, but she remained as fixed as a nail upon the sword vessel. Her long hair and skirt fluttered wildly, yet her delicate body was as unmoving as a mountain.

    However, the top of the sword vessel was transparent, and her choice to sit there, coupled with her rather short battle skirt, certainly made for a striking scene.

    "Uh."

    Looking up, Yun Xiao and the others felt a tinge of embarrassment.

    "I didn¡¯t consider this," Yun Xiao admitted.

    "No need to exin to us," Yue Yin said.

    Gu Suwan nced enviously at the spectacle, then teased Yun Xiao, "You lucky fellow, you¡¯re surely destined for sons."

    "..." Yun Xiao remained silent.

    "Don¡¯t worry, with your looks, even a half-devil child would be quite striking," Gu Suwan added.

    Silence fell within the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    After a while, Yue Yin broke the calm. She furrowed her brow lightly, looking at Yun Xiao, "May I speak? You seem a bit different today."

    "The demon aura, right?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes." Yue Yin and Gu Suwan nodded, indicating they had noticed it earlier but had been reluctant to mention it.

    Yun Xiao offered a wry smile.

    In the next moment, he no longer concealed his Divine Destion Physique. His overwhelming demonic aura instantly filled the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, and the force of his divine destion power left the two women gasping for air!

    This was the Late Anima Tribtion Realm''s Divine Destion Physique, still assimting the bloodline of the Nian!

    Now, Yun Xiao was a blend of human essence and demonic ferocity, his very being bing more sinister and brutal.

    With a rip, beneath each of his eyes, a narrow, sickly yellow orb split open, resembling vortices of impending doom, greedily and savagely gazing at Gu Suwan and Yue Yin!

    "Uh..."

    Both Gu Suwan and Yue Yin recoiled a few steps in fear.

    Their hearts raced, their beautiful eyes widened, unable to utter a single word.

    A perfectly normal man had suddenly transformed into a hybrid of human and demon, shattering their notions of the possible.

    With a whoosh, Yun Xiao reined in some of his demonic aura, yet the air of a supreme demon still clung to him.

    "How can this be..." Yue Yin said, her voice trembling.

    "Are you a human or a demon?" Gu Suwan murmured.

    "Now is too early to ask such things."

    Yun Xiao pushed back the ghastly eyes of the Nian into his skull, then ceased his idle chatter with the two. His focus shifted upwards to the impending tribtion facing the War Princess.

    The Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion was here!

    Aboard the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, the War Princessy back, rxed as if merely sleeping.

    After all, she had no part in this.

    Yun Xiao, however, was utterly absorbed, surrounding the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit with a vast sea of Mortal Dust Devil Blood, ready to face the divine tribtion!

    "Having already absorbed much Mortal Dust Devil Blood, transcending this tribtion will catapult my realm to new heights."

    With the experience gained from Moon Fairy''s ordeal, the situation here seemed quite simr.

    As the Azure Rain Sword Vessel sped through the skies, the Earth Pulse Thunder demonstrated unprecedented power, catching up and striking the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit with precision!

    "This proves that the trials of the celestialdder can never be evaded, no matter the method!" Yun Xiao realized this truth.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The War Princess transcended the tribtion repeatedly.

    "The Divine Destion and Mortal Dust progress quickly, even advancing beyond my true self."

    Of course, in terms ofbat power, Yun Xiao''s true self, endowed with the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit and Primordial Void Technique, remained his primary foundation.

    "With the return of the Divine Destion Physique and Mortal Dust Devil Blood, I am now worthy to face the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court..."

    The Celestial Court was plunged into its most chaotic moment!

    A beam of azure light pierced the heavens and earth!

    From one battlefield, it sped furiously to another!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    With that thought, the War Princess scoffed and rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m older than you too. Why don¡¯t you call me mommy?¡±</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 693: Razing the City!

    Chapter 693: Razing the City!

    Sky Soaring City!

    Darkness smothered everything, the city chillingly devoid of light.

    From east, west, south, north, to the skies above, the vast forces of the Great Dao Celestial Army formed a frigid wall of death. They ruthlessly ughtered any Immortal folk daring to flee the city.

    A mere few thousand deaths quelled any thoughts of escape.

    On those shadowy streets, True and Yin-Yang Immortals alike were cast into chaos and despair.

    Their hearts were seized by immense panic.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>One by one, the citizens of Sky Soaring City knelt before the Great Dao Celestial Army''s troops, their voices quivering with sorrow, "Honored Immortals, what crimes have wemitted?"

    "Why crush our humble city with such force?"

    "Isn''t the Great Dao Celestial Army meant to protect us? Aren''t your parents mere cultivators like us? Why do you treat us so?"No matter the pleas, the Great Dao Celestial Army stood impassive as a cold iron wall.

    In their icy gaze, no trace of emotion could be found.

    "Mother! Mother! My head hurts so!"

    Suddenly, a child no taller than a knee, clutching his head, burst into tears.

    His mother thought him scared, but a nce revealed a terror beyond belief.

    A ck me sprouted from the child¡¯s head, burning in the shape of a lotus, emitting white smoke and a hissing sound!

    "Wahhh!" The child, barely over a year old, rolled on the ground, his cries heart-wrenching and immature. His face contorted with pain, tears streaming down, breaking the hearts of all who saw.

    "His soul is burning!"

    "It¡¯s the Departing Soul Fire of the Chaos Sovereign!"

    Cries of horror echoed, sending shivers through the crowd, their very guts turning cold.

    "Even such a young child isn''t being spared. You wretched fiend, Lu Bufan! I¡¯ll fight you with myst breath!"

    The child¡¯s father, eyes red with fury, roared and charged skyward, only to be restrained by his kinsmen.

    "Lu Bufan! You are devoid of virtue, unworthy of your powers, you will meet a grim end!"

    The father¡¯s screams tore through the air as his family held him, their tears mingling with pain and anger.

    And as the mother, cradling her child, knelt with her head pressed to the ground, begging for mercy from Sovereign Lu...

    Above each head a ck lotus me began to burn.

    The shrieks filled the air as the people of Sky Soaring City fell to the ground, clutching their heads in agonizing howls.

    The Departing Soul Fire swept through the city like a tidal wave in the ocean, sparing no one¡ªman, woman, or child, the weak or the frail felt its ruthless sting the most, a pain magnified.

    It was as if countless spikes were driven deep into their brains and bones, twisting and pulling relentlessly.

    Soon, not a soul in the grand Sky Soaring City could stand.

    Even an Arbiter like Sun Xiaoqi found herself curled on the ground, her eyes turning white, her gaze dim, as tears of confusion streamed down.

    For themon folk, it was better to be a dog in times of peace than a human in chaos...

    When chaos descended, all morals andws were lost, and themon people were stripped of any right to control their destinies.

    "I, devoid of morality and virtue? Straying from the Dao? "

    Beneath the floating Sky Soaring City, a disheveled man in golden robes chuckled to himself.

    He held a massive ck lotus in his hand, the lotus'' soul fire scorching the entire city.

    As Lu Fan razed the city, heughed, "What is the Dao? What is virtue? Let me tell you, the Dao is the setting, and virtue is its governance. Together, they form the system."

    After speaking, he shook his head, sighing with boredom, "A broken instance, a bunch of broken NPCs, they really think they''re real."

    Then, he intensified the mes of the Departing Soul Fire. Under themand of his ck lotus spirit, the whole Sky Soaring City zed with the ck lotus soul fire!

    "But, I must say, the realism of this world is one hundred percent, especially the girls, delightfully real.

    "System, oh system, all I want is to enjoy my life forever, such a simple thing, yet youplicate it. Now you create a model of the ultimate hero, handsome and with freakish growth traits, as if you don''t want me to keep ying. Well, don''t me me for going all out and using my trump card to win."

    As he spoke, a line of golden text appeared on the golden interface in front of him.

    <em>DING!</em>

    ¡¸<em>System: Yun Xiao is an external element, unrted to this system. To maintain normal system operation, it must be eliminated as soon as possible.</em>¡¹n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Enough with the prompts, you''ve told me a thousand times, stop pestering me, I''m dealing with it now!"

    The man in the golden robes took a deep breath, his features twisted for a moment as he looked up at Sky Soaring City.

    "If this continues, everyone will be burnt to death, and still no appearance?"

    His gaze seemed calm, but deep within, a brutal madness surged.

    The human tragedy unfolding across Sky Soaring City¡ªthe wailing,menting, pleading, families torn apart¡ªwas all just <em>scripted</em> to him, meaningless.

    "In gaming, you have to y the game; without a little challenge, you might as well go home and farm!"

    The man in the golden robes murmured to himself, a smirk curling his lips, his shoulders shaking withughter.

    Hisughter contrasted sharply with the cries from the city above and the chilling indifference of the countless Great Dao Celestial Army troops hovering higher above.

    "The pot''s almost ready; if they don''te soon, the whole batch will be done."

    After saying this, Lu Fan looked skyward, his pupils suddenly narrowing.

    Indeed, someone wasing...

    Like a hunter shing a grin, Lu Fan bared his white teeth.

    "Brothers, watch me take down these husband and wife bosses first!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Above Sky Soaring City, the Peni Sage, Great Horned King, and eight Supreme Generals, along with thousands of Free Immortals, half-devils, and powerful demons, looked down from their high vantage, overlooking the human tragedy below, chatting andughing with ease.

    Suddenly, a thunderous roar split the sky, and a dazzling white light burst forth, illuminating all of Sky Soaring City as if it were daylight.

    "What the!"

    The Peni Sage and the others looked up in shock, only to see a boundless white expanse plummeting down above them!

    "Scatter!"

    Feeling the oppressive, destructive power of this white expanse, the Peni Sage quicklymanded everyone to dodge!

    Still, many from the Great Dao Celestial Army were struck by the white expanse, instantly turned into blood dust.

    Those like the Peni Sage who dodged in time turned back to see that what had descended from the sky was an immense white pagoda.

    The white expanse was merely the base of this pagoda!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>At that moment, the base of the boundless pagoda opened like a vast primordial maw, swallowing the entire Sky Soaring City in one gulp.

    The sheer size of the pagoda was now apparent!

    "My heavens!"

    Cries of astonishment rose among the Great Dao Celestial Army.

    The scene was truly explosive, stunning many onlookers!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>That immense force pressed down, swallowing Sky Soaring City in an instant, and even shook Lu Fan apart, separating him from Sky Soaring City!

    "Wh-who saved us?"

    Inside Sky Soaring City, the Immortal folk, who had been tormented by the Departing Soul Fire, finally found relief from their agony.

    They looked up, seeing only the white walls of the pagoda around them¡ªpure, wless, and immensely thick, instilling an inexplicable sense of calm.

    On the walls, stripes of ck and white, both domineering and sacred, easily reminded them of someone...

    Sun Xiaoqi shivered, realization dawning, and she eximed with excitement, "It must be the Seventh Princess! It''s Divine Dawn!"

    Even though this Seventh Princess had been dered a Divine Heaven grade criminal by the Celestial Court, she still held a positive image here in Sky Soaring City, a ce far from the White Emperor''s immediate reach.

    Especially the citizens of Sky Soaring City, who were somewhat aware of the incense offerings, knew of the rumors between Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn.

    "The Great Dao Celestial Army''s troops ughter us, yet a Divine Heaven grade criminales to our rescue¡ªwhat kind of world is this!"

    "Have we done something wrong, are we also criminals?"

    Relieved from pain, they wept for joy, yet their hearts were filled with doubts that shook their souls.

    "Princess Divine Dawn, defeat the viins!" Among the crowd, a barely one-year-old child, weak and fading, clenched his fist tightly. In hisrge, innocent eyesy the purest judgment of good and evil.

    "Such a small child, his heart knows only kindness, what crime could he have? Those who want to kill him are the truly unforgivable ones!" Sun Xiaoqi said angrily.

    "Yes!"

    From that moment on, the Immortals of Sky Soaring City were certain in their hearts who the true future of the Celestial Court should be.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Divine Dawn!"

    A chorus of clenched, growling voices echoed around the vast Primordial Pagoda.

    The core powerhouses under Sovereign Lu, filled with towering murderous intent, immediately locked onto their target!

    Atop the spire of the Primordial Pagoda stood a snow-white girl of about 15 years old, the wind blowing her long hair and dress, yet unable to sway the white tiger mask on her face that symbolized ferocity.

    She stood like a majestic white tiger above all creation, her pupils slit-like through the mask, gazing coldly and sternly at the Peni Sage and others.

    In her hand, she held a long chain, and at the ends of the chain dangled two dazzling stars!

    One was massive and heavy, burning with primordial mes.

    The other bristled with spikes, white lightning crackling around it!

    The Peni Sage''s eyelids twitched at his first sight of her! She had grown stronger! That was why Lu Fan was worried.

    "We cannot give her even a moment''s respite!" The Peni Sage suddenly swung his arm, his voice fierce, "Everyone together, ughter this little white tiger first!"

 Chapter 694: Heaven and Divine Penglai!

    Chapter 694: Heaven and Divine Peni!

    In the dead of night, with a single spark, chaos erupted.

    In that instant, the ordinary troops of the Great Dao Celestial Army held their breath, motionless. But those Rank 3 or higher, along with others who had reached the Anima Tribtion Realm, demons, devils, and Immortals alike, quickly mobilized.

    Over 1,000 strong and led by the Peni Sage and Great Horned King, theyunched a ferocious assault on the girl in the white dress.

    These beings, the weakest of whom wielded a formidable powerparable to that of General Cao, formed a peak force. Though they were fewer in number than the various Heavenly Officers of the Celestial Court, they stood their ground, rivaling them in strength.

    In terms of influence, whether it was the Celestial Court or Chaos Sovereign, they indeed far surpassed Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn...

    Of these over 1,000 demons, devils, and Immortals, there were more than 30 on par with a Rank 2 Supreme General. The pressure brought on by these top powerhouses was already 30 times greater than during theirst assault on Yun XIao in the Thunder Department.

    As for the Peni Sage and Great Horned King, their prowess was on par with Rank 1 Sovereigns!

    While Lu Fan was still beneath the Primordial Pagoda and had not yet joined the fray, this fierce onught by the 1,000 demons, devils, and Immortals clearly indicated that they all viewed Divine Dawn as a prize, vying to earn a grand merit for the new <em>Emperor</em> of the Celestial Court!

    Sky Soaring City was not Lu Fan''s target; it was Divine Dawn and Yun Xiao who mattered.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//omIn such a situation, after Divine Dawn came to the rescue of Sky Soaring City, the hearts of these mighty demons, devils, and Immortals were not only undisturbed but plunged into a state of excitement and exhration.

    "Annihte!"

    The Great Dao Celestial Army, Free Immortals, Great Horned Immortals, and celestial demons sealed off the heavens and the earth around them, locking down the space where Divine Dawn was. Countless celestial weapons, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils, along with the fortress-like physiques of the Great Horned Immortals and demons, bore down on the girl atop the Primordial Pagoda!

    A destructive divine radiance in an instant lit up the heavens.

    Among them, the Peni Sage and Great Horned King were the swiftest!

    The two nked Divine Dawn from left and right.

    As the Great Horned King charged forward, his body, tougher than any demon''s, shed against the void, sparking dazzling sparks. His ws extended, and atop his head, his golden and silver horns grew longer and spun, like twirling cudgels.

    <em>CLACK! CLACK! CLACK! </em>Simultaneously, a suit of battle armor appeared on him, covering his entire body and divided into five sections¡ªthe torso shining with golden light, the left arm surged with zing fire, the right arm crackled with thunder, the left leg as solid as a mountain, and the right leg as profound as the sea.

    The Great Horned King, d in his celestial armor, which showcased five distinct powers, bore a striking resemnce to the Five Infernos Star Barrier. Wearing this armor, he was undeniably more savage and ferocious, like a colossal beast standing upright, his entire body a weapon.

    Those familiar with the Great Horned King knew well that this armor was the most precious gift from the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court¡ªthe Five Infernos Battle Regalia!

    Every single piece of the armor was Divine Heaven grade. Even if it was Low Divine Heaven grade, it was still a rare treasure coveted by all.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>As the Great Horned King cleaved through the air, half-devils cheered, their intense and admiring gazes fixed on him, believing he could squash Divine Dawn with a single p.

    At the same time, cheers arose from another camp, those of the so-called Free Immortals, their eyes zing as they watched the Peni Sage.

    "Sword and Sigil, unmatched under heaven!"

    High above, an elder hovered on his Sovereign Sword, as ethereal as the moon on a clear night. In his hand, he controlled a Life Sigil, which slowly morphed into a vast mountain, as heavy and expansive as andmass.

    Below him, the deep blue Sovereign Sword surged like a sea of des, endless and vibrant.

    Sword of water, sigil of earth¡ªthough merely a Sword Soul and a Life Sigil, they contained the supreme Dao. Above all, the densely packed Sword and Rune Prisons on them were the most awe-inspiring. Around the deep blue sword swirled 66 Sword Prisons, each a vast ocean, boundless and profound.

    On the earth-colored Life Sigil, 66 Rune Prisons made the Life Sigil seem like a conglomeration of 66 worlds, its presence in the air imposing a profound pressure on all who beheld it.

    A practitioner of both sword and sigil, possessing both 66 Sword and Rune Prisons, was not even a low-ranking Heavenly Officer. Despite facing exclusion, he had reached this pinnacle, bing a reclusive Free Immortal¡ªthis Peni Sage was indeed extraordinary!

    He was almost the second-inmand under Lu Fan!

    Now, the Peni Sage and Great Horned King were the closest to Divine Dawn, their murderous intent focused on the girl in white. Between the Peni Sage and Great Horned King, there was also a fierce rivalry for glory.

    "Fighting alone, proving your path strays from reality, unechoed and pitiable!"

    With a cold sneer, the Peni Sage''s Sovereign Sword beneath him transformed into a long sword of the deep sea, snapping into his hand. One hand held the Sword Soul, the other a Life Sigil, his mastery bridging heaven and earth.

    Heaven Peng Sword Soul and Divine Lai Life Sigil!

    Thesebined to evoke the divine presence of Peni, a lineage once rivaled only by the imperial family for dominance over the Celestial Court. This revealed the deep roots of the ancient elder.

    "Am I truly alone?" the girl in the white dress asked, her face obscured by a mask, showing only her eyes, narrowed into slits, more fierce than before.

    "Yes! You are destined to be forsaken by the world, to be a pitiful phantom, with not a soul willing to die at your side!" the Peni Sage boomed, his presence as monumental as the mountains and seas, using the earth as his foundation and the oceans as his assault, shaking the very world at the girl in white.

    "Who says she has no friends?"

    In the blink of an eye, as lightning split the sky, a voice thundered from above, and a figure cloaked in a blend of tinum, dark yellow, and crimson celestial energies plummeted like a sword,nding squarely between the Peni Sage and Divine Dawn.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The forward charge of the Peni Sage was blocked. And with a thunderous sh, the celestial energies around the figure surged, while the mountain-sea power of the Peni Sage was repelled. It was as if he''d struck an imprable wall, sending him reeling, his vitality in turmoil.

    "Hmm?"

    With a grunt, the Peni Sage felt his organs tremble.

    His face paled! This blend of energies was utterly foreign to him, prompting him to look up in astonishment.

    There, enveloped in a mist of tinum, dark yellow, and crimson, stood a youth still d in Arbiter armor, unchanged in features from his memory but wholly transformed in aura.

    Rooted in humanity, yet nked by the visages of demons and devils on either side.

    The brutality of a demon and the chilling allure of a devil converged on this Creator Immortal''s face.

    The violent force of the Divine Destion Physique, the bizarrely bloodthirsty Mortal Dust Devil Blood,bined with the pure essence of the Primordial Void, made for a strange mix that, far from making him appear grotesque, rendered him all the more terrifying.

    Originally, he was just cold and stern. But with the added attributes of demon and devil, he became both brutal and aloof, his presence even more fearsome.

    "It''s him, Yun Xiao!"

    "At the Thunder Department, he killed many of our brothers..."

    The memory of the incident at the Thunder Department ignited a fiery red in the eyes of many demons, devils, and Immortals behind the Peni Sage. Today, the two main targets of the Chaos Sovereign had decisively arrived.

    With a sigh of relief, Yun Xiao exhaled a murky breath and, with his eyes tinged with crimson and silver, calmly addressed the Peni Sage, "In the vastness of the universe, for those who share my path, one of me is enough."

    After speaking, Yun Xiao turned to look at the girl in the white dress atop the pagoda, offering her a slight smile, "Right, darling?"

    His appearance slightly rxed the intense gaze of Divine Dawn, though her intent to kill was undiminished.

    "Talk to me when you''ve killed more than I have," she retorted coolly, her voice still edged with frost.

    It was clear that Lian Xi was still angry, but it was not so certain with the Seventh Princess and Chen Xi.

    However, Divine Dawn''s demeanor towards Yun Xiao had softened considerablypared to before; her light huff carried a hint of coquetry.

    "There''s a chance!" Yun Xiao thought, seizing the opportunity he had been waiting for.

    His eyes swept over the Primordial Pagoda once more, still shocked by how she had utilized this mortal realm treasure to such an extent.

    With Sky Soaring City secure and no more concerns holding him back, Yun Xiao was free to relish the fight.

    "What are you waiting for?" The Great Horned King''s eyes zed red as he suddenly roared.

    Indeed, Yun Xiao''s arrival had paused the murderous intent of the 1,000 plus demons, devils, and Immortals surrounding them. Now, regaining their senses, their desire to kill surged anew.

    Without needing further words from the Peni Sage or Great Horned King, the battle erupted instantaneously.

    "Want topete? If I kill more, you have to stop ignoring me," Yun Xiao proposed, unfazed by the barrage of celestial weapons, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils around him, turning back to look at the girl in white.

    "Win first, then talk," Divine Dawn shot him a look, too busy to entertain him further.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 695: Blood Rose Blossoming!

    Chapter 695: Blood Rose Blossoming!

    The two Great Horned Immortals who''d been guarding the DIvine Gateway were the sons of the Great Horned King himself, who now dreamt only of vengeance.

    With a thunderous roar, he mmed into the Primordial Pagoda, setting it quivering with the force of his rage. Behind him, a torrent of Great Horned Immortals and assorted demons and devils surged like a flood toward Divine Dawn, pressing her back into the distance!

    Clearly, the enemy¡¯s tactic was to iste these two young monsters and destroy them separately!

    At the same time as Divine Dawn was swept away by the tide of demons and devils, Yun Xiao''s situation was simrly dire. The Great Dao Celestial Army and Free Immortals that faced him made up more than 70% of the enemy force, proving even more challenging tobat.

    The Peni Sage was his primary adversary.

    "I have to be careful of Lu Fan too. He doesn''t care the slightest about the lives of his followers. He''s surely lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect opportunity to deliver a fatal blow to me and Lil Xi!¡± Yun Xiao was cautious, yet undaunted.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He and Divine Dawn were thrust into two swirling vortexes ofbat, each filled with over 500 Immortalbatants. Particrly on Yun Xiao¡¯s side, a barrage of distant attacks from Sword Souls and Life Sigils were relentless.

    ¡°Lil Xi''s style is that of a Martial Immortal, simple and crude. She''s more afraid of ranged attacks."

    Yun Xiao¡¯s techniques, however, were far more numerous. So, he was quite pleased with the enemy''s primitive strategy.¡°We''ve been skulking around and lying low in the Celestial Court for so long. Now that everything''se to a head, let¡¯s fight with all our might!¡± Yun Xiao eximed as his eyes narrowed. His fused form a blur amid the crowd and howling wind, his murderous intent a wild storm.

    With a rip, the eyes of the Nian appeared beside his face, its nerves aligning with Yun Xiao¡¯s, expanding his field of vision twofold and greatly enhancing his reactions.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>In his right hand, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul with its 30 Sword Prisons swept the air, its potent death energy condensing into an azure storm that revolved around the de!

    In Yun Xiao''s left hand, the Prison Warden Sigil transformed into the Runic Umbre. Its 32 Rune Prisons swirled into a violet vortex around the canopy.

    A sword in one hand and an umbre in the other, Yun Xiao walked through the cloud. His long hair billowed, blood mist swirling, his tinum white armor unstained by blood.

    ¡°Damn, he''s so cool¡­¡± Gu Suwan, maneuvering her Azure Rain Sword Vessel from afar, gazed at the young man amid the myriad enemies, her eyes moistening.

    ¡°That girl¡­¡± Yue Yin nced at the <em>corpse</em> beside her in a crystal coffin, still amid chaos.

    Just moments before, she had watched Yun Xiao kiss the girl¡¯s red lips, then drain her dry; the scene was so horrific that if not for Yun Xiao¡¯s instructions to safeguard this <em>corpse</em>, they might have thought this damsel was in by Yun Xiao!

    ¡°What in the world are they?¡± Gu Suwan¡¯s voice trembled.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Yue Yin inhaled deeply. ¡°My best guess is that the Seventh Princess is his true consort?¡±

    Gu Suwan paused for a moment, then looked again at the man and woman in white, back to back, moving as if their minds were linked. She couldn''t help but sigh. "This pair, they are truly a match made in heaven, perfectly matched in strength and temperament. They''re so alike!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yue Yin nced around in rm and eximed, "Where''s Pale Revenant?"

    "She must be waiting below the battlefield for her cloud-born Immortal to prepare her meal," Gu Suwan said with augh.

    "We''re the only ones without any special qualities," Yue Yin said with a mixture ofughter and tears.

    "But... facing the Chaos Sovereign, I''m still worried about them," Gu Suwan added.

    "We can only watch!" Yue Yin clenched her fists, her eyes heavy with concern as she stared at the battlefield. Their breathing grew heavier.

    In their view, the man and woman, two streaks of white, were deeply ensnared in the vortex of Lu Fan¡¯s elites, constantly facing hundreds of deadly attacks!

    Even Yue Yin would be vaporized instantly if she were caught in this assault!

    But what they saw was the tiny figure of the Seventh Princess, possessing a strength mightier than Pale Revenant. She was more agile and ferocious, coupled with her mastery of both celestial and magic techniques, making her a formidable warrior in every aspect!

    Under hermand, the two massive Primordial Doom Stars moved as swiftly as lightning and as fiercely as meteors, shifting and flickering across the battlefield. Wherever they went, bodies exploded into blood and gore!

    Demons and Great Horned Immortals, under the onught of these Primordial Doom Stars, were blown into pieces!

    The Seventh Princess, like a white phantom, flitted through the crowds, untouchable in the short term, with the agility of a cat and the strength of a tiger!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>One after another, huge clouds of blood mist exploded, the scene gruesomely spectacr!

    In contrast, Yun Xiao''s battle was not as viscerally explosive and brutally simple; rather, it resembled an art form.

    The young man in white, wielding the Runic Umbre, walked as if he were entering a downpour. The raindrops, made of Flying Swords, Life Sigils, and magic treasures, either missed him as he casually sidestepped, or were blocked by his violet umbre!

    He truly seemed to dash through a torrential downpour without getting wet!

    Yet, his swordy was like that of a venomous snake¡ªwhether it was a Flying Sword or a Palm Sword, he struck seldom, but when he did, it imed a life!

    And each life was at leastparable to that of Cao Sheng!

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! </em>The youth wandered the bloody battlefield, his slender fingers plucking as if ying a harp. With a flick of his hand, a Flying Sword pierced through!

    A Rank 2 Supreme General had not even seen Yun Xiao himself when a Flying Sword suddenly burst from the void, piercing through his mouth!

    <em>SLASH SLASH! SLASH! </em>A sh of azure light swept over his body!

    With a whoosh, the azure light shed by, and for a moment, the Supreme General''s body seemed unaffected. But in the blink of an eye, his body disintegrated, copsing into exactly 9,999 pieces of flesh and bone, each piece carved with a face¡ªDivine Dawn''s delicate visage.

    "This is for you. May itst a long time," Yun Xiao dered, sweeping up the pieces carved with faces and sending them flying towards Divine Dawn in the distance.

    "Get lost," Divine Dawn retorted, shocked yet intolerant of such a morbid gift.

    It was a detail only she could fully appreciate. To anyone else, it merely showed the young man''s precise control with his Flying Sword!

    Despite being in a life-and-death struggle, Yun Xiao seemed as casual as if he were merely strolling, and still he found time for flirtation?

    The 500 assants around them exploded in fury.

    "This kid, his power spikes every time he blinks! What kind of world is this, where even the blink of an eye doesn''t grant respite from obliteration?"

    From the initial explosive encounter at the Divine Gateway, to the assassination attempt in the Thunder Department, and now a full military suppression¡­ Ever since Lu Fan first encountered Yun Xiao, his attempts to eliminate this rival had been rapid and relentless.

    Yet with every failure to suppress him, Yun Xiao surged in power!

    The terror of Yun Xiao¡¯s talent grew the more one understood, stirring deep fears even in veterans like the Peni Sage. He was breathless from his first encounter, his respect for Lu Fan now transformed into a deep dread of this youth¡ªa dread he would never admit.

    "Move aside!" The Peni Sage bellowed, forcefully clearing the obstructers in his path.

    He had thought that numbers would wear Yun Xiao down, but all it did was leave them as mere fodder, their attacks as trivial as slicing through vegetables. They fought fiercely, yet not a single drop of blood stained the youth¡¯s white clothing!

    In contrast, Divine Dawn¡¯s garment was soaked with blood, her figure stained crimson!

    "Peni Immortal Ind, descend from the heavens!"

    Above Yun Xiao, the Peni Sage shouted, hurling his Divine Lai Life Sigil into the air. It transformed through magical incantations into a vast, mist-enshrouded celestial ind, plummeting down to lock Yun Xiao beneath its oppressive weight!

    At the same time, the Peni Sage grasped his sword. The waves of the Heaven Peng Sword Soul surged, rolling up thousands of storms into a formidable sword stance. With every droplet heavy as steel, they bombarded Yun Xiao!

    With the power of mountains and seas, the Peni Sage had crushed countless foes to pulp over the years. Though aged, he remained one of the Celestial Court¡¯s most lethal Immortals.

    Now, with the celestial ind bearing down and the sea swirling around him, Yun Xiao was forced to halt, trapped between these colliding forces of nature!

    He could certainly feel the immense pressure descending from Peni!

    "Die!" The Peni Sage, like a deep-sea leviathan, roared and shook the heavens and earth. He stared intensely at Yun Xiao, his eyes zing with the fury of a storm, ready to crush the young man before him.

    "A mere wild Immortal eking out survival in the wilderness, and you dare im to be free?" Yun Xiao taunted.

    As the sky seemed to copse, Yun Xiao stood amidst the tempest, slightly raising an eyebrow, his look of disdain directed squarely at the Peni Sage.

    Suddenly, the young manughed, his left arm revealing strands of silver tendons that transformed his arm and shoulder into a gleaming silver dragon.

    With this arm, he propped up his Runic Umbre, forcefully holding up against the descending Peni Immortal Ind!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Around Yun Xiao, the earth shattered and the seas and mountains churned wildly!

    Yet there he stood, umbre in hand, unmoved.

    His frame was not imposing, but in that moment, he possessed the strength of a colossal beast, his physical power seemingly surpassing even that of Divine Dawn.

    Such a scene stunned the Peni Sage into disbelief. His heart quivered violently, tears streaming uncontrobly as he struggled to ept the existence of such a monstrous being.

    At that moment, even the sword in his hand lost a third of its power, no longer possessing the unstoppable force of the Heaven Peng Sword Soul.

    "My turn." Yun Xiao, holding the Runic Umbre with one hand, extended just two fingers to pinch his azure Sword Soul.

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>Strands of devilish blood wrapped around the azure Flying Sword, turning it colder, more lethal.

    This Flying Sword instantly became the focal point of the battlefield.

    "No!" The Peni Sage, sensing a dreadful omen, cried out in horror and stumbled back.

    "Emperor Fan, save me!" he screamed in agony.

    In that instant, Yun Xiao casually flung the Flying Sword.

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>The sword, crackling with azure and blood-red currents, with a phoenix and a dragon entwined around it, erupted in the sky. The deafening sound of thunderous explosions shook the heavens, and the surrounding space shattered violently. The fragments coalesced into countless blood-red roses, swirling towards the Peni Sage!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Peni Sage, seeing no escape, turned and shed with his Heaven Peng Sword Soul. The sword cut through, sending a vast oceanic surge crashing against the Flying Sword!

    "Heh." Yun Xiao chuckled coldly, flicking his wrist. The shattered space expanded tenfold, and a giant blood-red rose suddenly opened its gaping maw, swallowing the Peni Sage in an instant!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The sword''s light swept through, and the Peni Sage vanished.

    Only a delicate blood-red rose of flesh remained, swaying in the wind.

    Yun Xiaoughed, then turned to the young girl in white, battling fiercely in the distance. "This rose, can it perhaps earn forgiveness?"

 Chapter 696: Primordial Thunder Hellfire, Heaven Origin Shock!

    Chapter 696: Primordial Thunder Hellfire, Heaven Origin Shock!

    That Peni Sage, transformed into a rose, had his head as the heart, his flesh as the petals, and his bones as the stem¡ªan eerie masterpiece of lifelike artistry, unequaled in its exquisite detail.

    Drenched upon the stem was the heart blood of the Peni Sage, and carved into it were the words¡ª<em>A Love Beyond Compare!</em>

    A human flower begging for forgiveness.

    On this brutal battlefield, the corpse-rose of the Peni Sagel bloomed with a dual beauty of gore and artistry, making the powerful Immortals around it shudder and their stomachs turn.

    This was the Peni Sage! He attacked with full force but was instantly in by Yun Xiao with a sword and sigil, his body turned into an artwork!

    The terror that this young man in tinum white armor casually disyed was enough to chill his attackers to the bone, literally cold to the touch.

    Most onlookers gasped in shock, their breath turning cold in the heat of the battlefield.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The swirling flesh-and-bone red rose crossed the battlefield towards Divine Dawn, untouched as none dared interfere.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The girl in the white dress shattered a golden demon ape with a hammer, then turned sharply as a white tiger with slit eyes set its gaze upon the blood rose.Her look was one of incredible fascination, a mix of anger, incredulousughter, and then annoyance.

    ¡°If you¡¯re sick in the head, go get some help. Don¡¯t embarrass yourself here.¡±

    Though her words were cold, they carried an undertone of affectionate chiding, hinting at a love-hate rtionship.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As the blood rose almost reached her, Divine Dawn blew a storm of thunder and lightning from her lips, sending it spiraling back towards Yun Xiao.

    Naturally, no woman in this world would fancy a rose carved from an old man¡¯s corpse, right? No matter how dazzling the craftsmanship, it remained a gift of death.

    Yun Xiao, with a wry smile, remarked, "So you don''t like this either? A girl''s heart truly is a mystery."

    "Enough already!" Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    "Hey, set that rose aside for me! I might need it to woo a woman cow!" Red Moon nestled against his chest, his crimson eyes dominating the battlefield with eager anticipation. "Today, I must set a record. First one down, then double up, followed by a triple and fortune at the door..."

    "Just wait." Yun Xiao gripped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul once more, plunging it into the human rose, absorbing the Seed of Creation from the Peni Sage, along with the Sword Soul, Life Sigil, and all his blood and essence.

    "If she doesn''t want it, it''s yours."

    After consuming the essence, Yun Xiao nonchntly tossed aside the Peni Sage''s corpse.

    As the blood mist thickened, a cute white shadow shed by, and the Peni Sage was utterly dismantled, not a hair left intact.

    "That little corpse demon is different from the old primeval hag¡ªmore immature, a bit twisted. Still, it''s that corpse hag who''s more vorful. She''s just the right age for our bro, ripe for a fiery encounter," Blue Star analyzed.

    "Our bro is truly amazing, dominating every category of woman, even the undead ones!" Red Moon admired.

    "Both of you cut the chatter."

    After Yun Xiao had devoured the Peni Sage, he knew a greater peril was upon them.

    The enemy had not expected him to dispatch the Peni Sage so swiftly. So, now they were forced to make their move ahead of schedule.

    With the Pen Sagei''s fall, no demon or devil dared approach Yun Xiao. Instead, they coldly bypassed him, flooding towards Divine Dawn like a tidal wave!

    Now, around 800 demons and devils encircled Divine Dawn, led by the Great Horned King, fiercely attacking the girl in white.

    They realized that Divine Dawn''s method ofbat, unlike Yun Xiao''s impable skill, was all brute force¡ªoffering a chance for the lesser Immortals to overwhelm her.

    Her pressure doubled instantly. She faced one Rank 1 opponent, dozens of Rank 2s, and almost 800 Rank 3s!

    Even the Nine Thunders Sovereign or the Northstar Sword Devil would find this situation lethal.

    Yet, as Divine Dawn was ensnared in this bloody quagmire, a trace of tension flickered in her eyes as she looked towards Yun Xiao, cautioning, "Be careful!"

    "Right." Yun Xiao understood then¡ª<em>that person</em> hade. It was obvious <em>he</em> had arrived. Why else would all the other demons and devils target Divine Dawn?

    His side grew eerily quiet, too quiet for the roaring battlefield around him. It was as if someone had muted his surroundings, leaving him in an unsettling silence.

    "Here we meet again, Chaos Sovereign," Yun Xiao said as he slowly turned around.

    Behind him stood a middle-aged man in golden robes, his hair unkempt, face a mix of ck and red as if he lived a life of drunken stupor. He was holding a ck gourd, from which he drank with a deep gurgle.

    "Delicious." The man in the golden robes took another deep drink, relishing the taste before smiling at Yun Xiao. "Just call me Lu Fan, you know I''m not from around here."

    "It doesn''t matter," Yun Xiao replied coolly, his eyes a deep, chilling gaze. "Let''s get started."

    "Alright." Lu Fan grinned. "I''ll take you somewhere interesting."

    With that, he waved his sleeve, which astonishingly unfurled like an endless abyss, opening a vast, ck maw that blotted out the sky and swallowed everything.

    Yun Xiao found nowhere to hide and was instantly consumed by this endless void.

    The sleeve even swept up Lu Fan himself, and as both men disappeared from sight, only a spinning gourd was left behind!

    "Emperor Fan! Emperor Fan!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    At this sight, the Great Dao Celestial Army, Free Immortals, demons, and devils excitedly roared, shaking the heavens as if their Emperor Fan had indeed captured Yun Xiao.

    "Hmm?"

    Seeing this, Pale Revenant, Gu Suwan, and Yue Yin furrowed their brows in concern.

    Where had Yun Xiao been swept off to? Could he have died?

    This was a showdown between two peak talents of the Celestial Court, young and old, and that spinning ck gourd tugged at everyone''s hearts.

    It also fueled the fury of those quick to anger.

    Divine Dawn was such a person.

    Amidst a battlefield surrounded by countless foes, she stared intensely at the ck gourd. Hidden within her fierce gaze was a concern hard for the ordinary to discern.

    <em>BOOM! </em>She rallied two great Primordial Doom Stars and charged towards the ck gourd.

    "Stop her!" the Great Horned King roared abruptly, reigniting the ferocity of the battlefield.

    "Kill!"

    The 800 top-tier demons, devils, and Immortals surrounded her tightly, unleashing their magic, Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial weapons like a torrential downpour upon the girl in the white dress!

    Explosions boomed across heaven and earth.

    Her silhouette fluttered in the air, seemingly on the brink of obliteration at any moment! The relentless barrage around her was like a colossal tidal wave. Each Sword Soul, Life Sigil, and celestial treasure was deadly!

    The girl''s brows furrowed, her slit eyes zing with intense killing intent!

    Suddenly, she looked up to the sky, like a fierce tiger standing on a cliff''s edge, and roared.

    "GET OUT OF MY WAY!" It was hard to imagine such a petite body emitting a roar like a thunderous beast, but this roar formed visible concentric light waves that rippled outward!

    A roar like the heavens exploding!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The light waves moved at a terrifying speed, cutting through the barrage of attacks, striking the heads of the 800 demons, devils, and Immortals!

    <em>POP! POP! POP! </em>One by one, under the assault of this Primordial Tiger Roar, their ears burst open in puffs of blood, creating a fireworks disy of gore in the sky, a truly spectacr sight.

    After their ears burst, their cries of pain spread, as nearly everyone in the sky clutched their ears, faces ghostly pale!

    Their eardrums, devastated by the Primordial Tiger Roar, disrupted their magic and sword attacks, greatly reducing their lethality, even causing them to collide with one another!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The aftershocks of the Primordial Tiger Roar sent shockwaves outward, even pushing back the legions of the Celestial Court and the wandering Immortals, with hundreds of thousands of Immortals retreating, many with bleeding ears.

    "The Seventh Princess is so fierce." Gu Suwan, sheltered within the Rain Sword Boat, was shaken to the point her ears rang.

    "She''s certainly a tough nut to crack." Yue Yin shuddered slightly.

    "A certain someone we know seems to prefer it that way," Gu Suwan said with a slight smile.

    "Look, she''s still raging!" Yue Yin quickly added, her eyes fixed on the girl.

    The girl in the white dress, having vented her anger, saw the demons, devils, and Immortals still blocking her path. Her anger did not subside; rather, her killing intent soared even higher.

    "Primordial Thunder Hellfire, Heaven Origin Shock!"

    In a disy that required no Life Sigils, Divine Dawn released the Primordial Doom Stars and spread her arms wide in the air. A tiger-shaped white lightning bolt formed in her left hand, and a pale, intense me zed in her right.

    She flipped her hands, merging the thunder and fire into the primordial circle. The fire sank downward and the thunder ascended, mirroring the cosmic act of creation: lightning spiraled in the heavens, generating endless bolts, forming a perfect circle of sma while the me zed furiously below, also swirling into a circle of hellfire.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Above was the thunder; below, the white fire. Suspended between them, the girl controlled the heavens with one hand and the earth with the other. Thunder roared down, wrapping around her arms, while the fire surged up, licking her hands.

    At this moment, she was like a sovereign controlling celestial beasts, the entire world turning within her palms. Her hair flew about like electric dragons, her white dress burned with infinite primordial fire, and her eyes mirrored the sma and hellfire. With a nce, she could shatter the heavens and crumble the earth, turn seas to dust and rocks to rubble.

    In this instant of transcendent beauty, unforgettable to any who saw, she was no mere girl but a supreme Empress leading her race to break the world across the endless aeons!

    "You lowly demons, vile devils, and contemptible humans, how dare you threaten the grand path of humanity¡¯s survival?!"

    Her words thundered, shaking the heavens amid the intery of thunder and fire. In the sky, she dominated the cosmos, her fingers grasping control of the universe.

    "Evil devils and demons, perish here and now!"

    With a resonant boom, she pressed her hands together, and in an instant, celestial thunder and terrestrial fire collided. The world seemed topress into her palm, then burst forth explosively.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A blinding white light shed, turning endless darkness into daylight, as thunder and fire transformed into numerous charging white tigers, smashing into the demons, devils, and Immortals around her.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Clouds of blood mist erupted. No matter how tough the demons or devils, under the destructive arc of the Heaven Origin Shock, any struck by it were obliterated instantly!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 697: Chaotic Spirit World!

    Chapter 697: Chaotic Spirit World!

    <em>BOOM! </em>A torrent of thunder and fire surged like waves, sending a shockwave that scattered the surrounding 800 demons, devils, and Immortals. In an instant, nearly half were dead or dying.

    Thunderous echoes vibrated through the air, blood sttering the skies, followed by the piercing and desperate screams of the fallen.

    The Supreme Generals of the Great Dao Celestial Army, once only revered from afar, nowy dismembered and writhing in pain before their own eyes, thrusting the survivors into a chilling silence, their minds nk in horror.

    The massive forms of the demons and Great Horned Immortal bore the brunt of this destructive storm, suffering grievously. The sky was littered with dismembered arms and legs¡ªa ghastly spectacle of carnage.

    This was undeniably an all-you-can-eat extravaganza for Pale Revenant.

    Among Yun Xiao¡¯s manypanions, the only one Pale Revenant truly feared was Divine Dawn.

    ¡°Agh¡­¡±

    The survivors all turned pale under the impact of the Heaven Origin Shock, scrambling away in a desperate escape.

    In that moment, they forgot about the Chaos Sovereign, forgot their dreams of a better life ahead, with their minds haunted only by the vision of a massive white tiger blotting out the sun, and a deep, instinctual fear in their blood.A petite, snow-white figure, seemingly harmless, became the nightmare of these fierce beings.

    ¡°Hold!¡±

    In the midst of this tempest of destruction, a towering figure in celestial armor, though at the forefront, was indeed the least injured.

    The face of the Great Horned King was scorched ck, his eyes zing with fire, his features twisted in fury as he bellowed at the panicked demons, devils, and Immortals fleeing around him, ¡°The enemy is upon us, who dares desert their post, faces military justice!¡±

    His words, fierce as they were, managed to halt the majority in their tracks.

    "Great Horned King, I am grievously wounded and near death..." a Supreme General gasped, his face ashen.

    "Dying is not dead. Steady yourself!" the Great Horned King bellowed as he spun around to face the girl in the white dress. His voice was icy, "She has exceeded her limits with such force. Now, she is at the end of her strength! The chance to earn glory for Emperor Fan has arrived..."

    He had barely finished speaking when, with a thunderous boom, the girl wearing a white tiger mask and carrying two massive Primordial Doom Stars appeared before him!

    "How do you still have so much strength left?" the Great Horned King growled through clenched teeth.

    As soon as he spoke, the girl in white gave him a chilling nce and flung her left hand out. The slightly smaller thunder meteor hammer tore through the sky, bursting with a thunderous roar and charged at the Great Horned King!

    The Great Horned King roared in fury. He raised his armor-d arms, circting his devil blood and celestial power, to block. The heavy gauntlets of the Five Infernos Battle Regalia on his arms were top-tier weapons themselves!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The fists of the Great Horned King collided with the meteor hammer, releasing a screeching sh!

    <em>CRACK! </em>The Great Horned King''s arms twisted grotesquely, the sound of breaking bones piercing the air!

    His face contorted in agony!

    The meteor hammer smashed his arms with unstoppable force, striking his chest with devastating impact!

    With a wet thud, the Great Horned King''s chest caved in, and he spewed a mouthful of ck blood mixed with his innards. His massive frame flew backward like a kite with its string cut, blood spraying in the air!

    "So fierce... No, wait!"

    Wracked with excruciating pain and struggling for breath, the Great Horned King caught a glimpse of the thunderous meteor hammering at him again from the corner of his eye.

    <em>BANG! BANG! BANG! </em>Under the control of the girl in the white dress, the massive meteor hammer struck like a relentless whip, bombarding the Great Horned King''s body dozens of times in rapid session!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>The Great Horned King, treated like a punching bag in midair, was hammered repeatedly. With each brutal strike, a mix of organs and ck blood spurted out, apanied by his agonized screams.

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Everyone stood dumbfounded, their eyes wide as they watched the Great Horned King tossed about in the air.

    His once-prized Five Infernos Battle Regalia had been hammered away, leaving nothing but his battered flesh, now a mere pulp, no better than his two sons who had guarded the Divine Gateway.

    With a final crash, the two hammers of thunder and me mmed together, smashing the Great Horned King into a patty sandwiched between the two Primordial Doom Stars. Blood and flesh gushed out, and he screamed no more...

    A collective gasp escaped from the crowd of demons, devils, and Immortals regardless of allegiance. They watched in horrified awe as the girl in the white dress finally set down the Primordial Doom Stars.

    Standing atop the Primordial Pagoda, her cold gaze swept over the remainingbatants, including the Great Dao Celestial Army, and Free Immortals...

    ¡°In times of chaos, it is even more essential to help one another. A true cultivator supports the weaker, for solidarity brings survival. Why then do you choose to fight for the selfish and unprincipled?¡±

    Her voice was calm, posing the question that left the Great Dao Celestial Army and Free Immortals looking down, at a loss for words.

    ¡°To cultivate and ascend does not mean to prey on the weak without moral restraint.¡±

    With that, Divine Dawn crossed the expanse to reach the ck gourd.

    No one dared to stop her now.

    Her gaze intensively fixed on the ck gourd, she slowly extended her hand towards it.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Yun Xiao took a shallow breath. He floated in an expanse of nothingness, gazing into the void where nothing existed.

    This was a true realm of nothingness, where Yun Xiao felt absolutely nothing.

    Yet, it seemed as though everything was present, only in their most primal forms, beyond reach due to his insufficient cultivation.

    "Where is this?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    "The Chaotic Spirit World."

    The response came from behind him, in a voice that sounded unexpectedly young.

    Before Yun Xiao could turn around, the voice continued, "This is spectator mode. You can look but can''t touch. So here, you''re nothing, equivalent to nonexistence."

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao nodded and turned to face the source of the voice.

    If he was not mistaken, this would be Lu Fan speaking, but why did his voice sound different?

    As he turned, a figure came into view.

    A diminutive young man stood before him, dressed peculiarly in a short-sleeved shirt of blue and white stripes, loose trousers, and white cloth shoes tied with bow knots.

    Looking further up, Yun Xiao saw the youth''s hair was short and limp, clinging to his scalp, and a pair ofrge ck-framed sses that made him appear somewhat meek and nerdy.

    His features were ordinary, with a slightly t nose dotted with ckheads, a few pimples on his cheeks, and a somewhat murky gaze.

    This oddly dressed figure was Lu Fan.

    He wore a badge on his chest, which read¡ª

    ¡¸<em>Qingyang County First Middle School</em>

    <em>Name: Lu Fan</em>

    <em>Student number: 1314520.</em>¡¹

    "Why have you taken this form?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "In spectator mode, this is how I really look." Lu Fan gave a goofy smile, scratching his head. After a pause, he pointed at Yun Xiao, "You might not have noticed, but you look different too."

    Yun Xiao paused, touching his face, feeling a familiar roughness under his fingers.

    "So, you''re like me, but you''re a local here, and I''m from elsewhere." Lu Fan stroked his chin, his mouth twisting into a sly grin, "Let''s face it, one script can''t contain two overwhelming heroes. Let¡¯s duel, local fool."

 Chapter 698: Destiny Soul Fire

    Chapter 698: Destiny Soul Fire

    Yun Xiao''s brows furrowed deeply.

    Lu Fan, revered as the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court,manded vast authority and was notoriously difficult to handle.

    And now, he had drawn Yun Xiao into this eerie ce!

    The short, poor youth in front of him, his student ID badge deceptively in, was just a facade. After years of development under the Celestial Court, a deep and vast soul force surged beneath his unassuming exterior.

    This was the strongest Anima Immortal!

    He didn''t waste words with Yun Xiao. After speaking briefly, he stretched out his arms, bowed his head slightly, and chuckled.

    "Though you''ve merged with the power of devils and demons, enhancing yourbat abilities, your spirit still seems rather frail¡­" Lu Fan whispered with a sinisterugh.

    As heughed, his pupils transformed into two lotuses¡ªone gold and one ck.

    The lotuses bloomed at a visible rate from their bud forms.Then, breaking the confines of his eye sockets, they collided.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Lu Fan''s body twisted, the point of collision between the two lotuses bing the core from which a fierce ck and gold fire zed.

    <em>BOOM! </em>With the impact, the fire spread, and amidst the light and floral haze, Lu Fan''s form vanished, reced by an eerie lotus intermingled with gold and ck petals.

    This gold and ck lotus spun before Yun Xiao, its ghostly mes growing boundlessly, bing the focal point of the entire void. It loomed like a mountain of 10,000 souls, oppressive before Yun Xiao.

    It was the most terrifying disy of soul power Yun Xiao had ever witnessed.

    Without a doubt, this was Lu Fan''s spirit!

    As a pure Anima Immortal, his spirit transcended his body, enveloping it.

    Where others used their bodies to protect their spirits, he did the opposite¡ªhis spirit was his indestructible strength!

    Even so, his fleshly body could effortlessly send Yun Xiao flying thousands of feet just days ago!

    Before this lotus spirit, Yun Xiao felt as insignificant as a flea on its petals¡­

    "The gap is muchrger than I imagined," Yun Xiao concluded.

    In truth, he had no real grasp of Lu Fan''s true power.

    Experience was necessary before forming conclusions.

    Now, a conclusion was apparent; Lu Fan was far stronger than the other Sovereigns, not by a small margin but significantly so. Yet, such strength also brought him to the brink of life and death.

    In other ces, one might flee, but how could one escape within this spectator mode?

    "The Dao is high, but the devil is higher. Yun Xiao, your native talent truly defies the heavens, but unfortunately, you''ve met someone who cheats." The dark gold lotus spirit chuckled.

    Whileughing, it began its move.

    "Chaos Emperor Lotus! Destiny Soul Fire!"

    The former was the name of its spirit, and thetter a soul technique that pierced through heaven and earth.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Chaos Emperor Lotus Spirit whirled to position itself above Yun Xiao.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Gold and ck petals collided in their dance, sparking pale mes.

    This was the Destiny Soul Fire, embodying a high and untouchable power like a river dictating each person¡¯s fate.

    Each strand of the Destiny Soul Fire contained countless faces¡ªdazed, fallen,ughing, cursing¡ªtheir numbed spirits now part of the fire''s power.

    "These are the souls of those who''ve died by my hand, submitting to fate, bing part of the Destiny Soul Fire. The more I kill, the stronger it bes," the Chaos Emperor Lotus murmured with a coldugh, tinged with pride.

    "Then I am somewhat more merciful than you, for at least I liberate, not imprison," Yun Xiao responded.

    "But you, too, will be a part of my <em>fate</em>!" Lu Fan couldn''t help butugh, "Sorry, I''m not one for ying by the rules. Starting with a big move often catches others off guard and proves very effective."

    Yun Xiao looked up at the terrifyingly amassed Destiny Soul Fire on the Chaos Emperor Lotus and said calmly, "Come then."

    "You asked for it!" Lu Fan''sughter ceased, his voice sinking into a chilling cold.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Destiny Soul Fire transformed into a white torrentposed of human faces, cascading down upon Yun Xiao like a waterfall!

    In this torrent of mes, each face, submissive to fate, twisted and murmured in a dreamlike stupor, reaching out into the void, grasping at nothing, as if drowning.

    Most terrifyingly, in this Chaotic Spirit World, the Destiny Soul Firepletely disregarded Yun Xiao''s physical existence.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>This endless torrent of mes, like a sea of people, engulfed Yun Xiao, rushing into his body and surrounding his Dantian, trapping his spirit in an inescapable encirclement.

    "Life and death are fated; wealth and honor are in heaven!"

    In the surging tide of people, faces obsessed with Yun Xiao''s spirit shouted the mantra, then lunged at his spirit!

    "Stop struggling; your fate is already sealed."

    "ept your fate! ept it!"

    "Fate is preordained by heaven; life and death are destined, misfortune is unavoidable, lie down to keep safe!"

    For a moment, it seemed 1,000,000,000 hands grasped at Yun Xiao''s spirit, seizing his hair, arms, legs, even his mouth, and his viscera, pulling madly with burning, scorching hands.

    In an instant, his spirit endured unimaginable pressure, scorched ck and decaying by the soul fire, while the tearing force of the crowd''s hands threatened to rip Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit into pieces!

    "So powerful..." Yun Xiao felt a tingling in his scalp.

    Lu Fan''s massive move was far more terrifying than Yun Xiao could have imagined.

    The trickiest part was that such a power was hard to dodge; one could only withstand it.

    And to withstand was to die!

    "Your fate is to be the greatest puppet between heaven and earth."

    "You cannot escape this destiny; you might as well die sooner and end it."

    "Yun Xiao, stop wasting your effort. What you see is but the dream of a sixteen-year-old Emperor on his deathbed..."

    "Jiang Yue rises to greatness, Ye Guying reaches the summit, Zhao Xuanran bes his ything; the Divine Continent is overrun by the Demon Continent, the War Princess dies at the age of eighteen, and all beings are like insects offering up their lives as incense. This is reality, there was never a mere mortal like you who could defy fate and change it."

    "Your deathbed dream is fascinating, but now, it''s time to wake up."

    More destructive than the burning of soul fire was the tearing apart of belief. When these chaotic jeers filled his ears, Yun Xiao knew the power of the Destiny Soul Fire had invaded his spirit, shaking his moral core.

    "Hahaha..." Yun Xiao suddenlyughed, murmuring, "Lu Fan, if I am but a fleeting dream, isn''t your journey in this strange world also nothing more than a fleeting illusion?"

    "You don''t know a damn thing. When I was exploring those celestial holes, the sheer thrill of it was something you could neverprehend." Lu Fanughed. "Back in school, even touching the hand of a pretty ssmate was tough. But now, Immortals 1,000 times more beautiful than any school girl kneel before me begging for favor. You can''t grasp just how exhrating it is."

    What was real, and what was not? It no longer mattered. Because the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit of Yun Xiao was purified at its core, unmoved as a mountain, unaffected by such irritations. His convictions wouldn''t crumble, yet the inherent burning destructive power of the Destiny Soul Fire was still too potent for his current Golden Immortal spirit to handle!

    "Seriously, you''re still holding on?" Blue Star asked with a curl of his lips.

    "I can''t hold on any longer. So, let''s pay to make this go away!" Yun Xiao dered.

    Hearing it would cost them, Blue Star and Red Moon visibly winced, but clearly, it was a move of desperation.

    At this moment, Yun Xiao indeedcked the strength to take down the Greatest War God of the Celestial Court. This fellow might truly be stronger than the White Emperor, Crown Prince, and Great Mother!

    The trouble was, Anima Immortals were tough to deal with!

    Yun Xiao would rather engage in physicalbat with the Great Mother than face such an opponent.

    "Goodbye, local loser." Lu Fan chuckled, and the Chaos Emperor Lotus unleashed an even more vast torrent of white zing fire, carrying countless faces, to burn and rip apart Yun Xiao''s spirit.

    "You''re speaking too soon; the game has just begun," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "Huh?" Lu Fan paused.

    In the next instant, a streak of ck light surged from Yun Xiao''s chest, targeting the Chaos Emperor Lotus!

    The recent bountiful gains had greatly empowered the ancient bronze coffin.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A dark bronze coffin, opening its <em>jaws </em>wide, engulfed the Chaos Emperor Lotus in the blink of an eye.

    <em>BANG! </em>The coffin lid mmed shut, not only imprisoning the Chaos Emperor Lotus but also severing the Destiny Soul Fire!

    "Aaaaah!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The crowd grasping at Yun Xiao''s spirit through his eyes, ears, mouth, and nose, twisted their faces in torment, as if drowning in the white mes, then fizzled away into the void.

    In an instant, the tide turned.

    "Not this coffin again..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 700: Ill Support You Fully!

    Chapter 700: I''ll Support You Fully!

    In the winds of the night, Yun Xiao turned around. He saw her, the girl in the white dress, with twin orbs of thunder and me coiled at her waist, her hair dancing in the breeze, her feet barely touching the ground.

    Her bright eyes fixed on Yun Xiao, unreadable in their expression.

    "Where''d he go?"

    Yun Xiao was about to speak when Divine Dawn interrupted.

    "He ran," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Is he hurt?" Divine Dawn asked.

    "Somewhat," Yun Xiao said.

    At this, Divine Dawn bit her red lip, falling silent.

    "You''re disappointed, aren''t you? I didn''t capture him outright, leaving us a potential threat," Yun Xiao said.The girl in the white dress shook her head. "He set the trap tonight. You surviving is a victory in itself."

    "Right, that...¡± Yun Xiao felt it was time to charm thedy after their side-by-side battle.

    "What are you spacing out for?" Divine Dawn suddenly red at him.

    "What?"

    "Get on with the important stuff," she said.

    "Here?" Yun Xiao shook his head quickly, remembering the <em>third time</em> he and Lian Xi were supposed to have had, but it also required the right moment.

    "What are you thinking?" The girl in the white dress looked at him with annoyance. "I meant for you to seize the chance to broadcast the matter of the incense offerings, to rally the support of the Great Dao Celestial Army and the other powers of the Celestial Court that he abandoned!"

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao nced around. He recalled how she was ambushed by over 800 top demons, devils, and Immortals the moment he was dragged into the Chaotic Spirit World.

    Now, the ground was littered with countless dead.

    Those who survived hid in the distance, their eyes filled with deep reverence and fear as they looked at Divine Dawn.

    It seemed she had also intimidated Lu Fan''s followers.

    "Perhaps it''s more fitting if you do it," Yun Xiao said with a smile.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In terms of presence, Divine Dawn was indeed more imposing, more imperial, while Yun Xiao carried himself with an ease and grace thatcked the air of an Emperor.

    "Alright." She agreed, straightforward and decisive. "You have the charisma; you help me."

    "Naturally, I''ll support you fully," Yun Xiao replied.

    The girl in the white dress bit her lip and stared at him, puzzled by how such an ethereal-looking man could harbor so many schemes.

    She didn''t care to ponder it further; having Yun Xiao stand by her side was all that mattered.

    As the focal point of heaven and earth, a pair of ethereal youths¡ªa young man and woman who had crushed the core of the Lu Fan''s group¡ªnow stood before the masses.

    The Great Dao Celestial Army, Free Immortals, and the demons and devils of the Celestial Court, except for those who had died in the main battle, none had left. They all stood frozen, their minds nk as they gazed upon this celestial pair.

    Amidst them, Divine Dawn, with Yun Xiao''s support, took a step forward,ing before the assembled troops.

    "Ladies and gentlemen." Her youthful yetmanding voice swept across the crowd.

    Someone took the lead and shouted, "Seventh Princess!"

    The call, starting as a trickle, soon swelled into a roaring tide.

    The Great Dao Celestial Army, under Lu Fan''s banner, dared to address Divine Dawn with such reverence, a testament to her formidable presence that had already subdued the popce.

    Of course, much of it was also because behind her stood another formidable figure.

    Such cheers were just the beginning.

    As the cries died down, Divine Dawn, before the multitude, removed the white tiger mask from her face.

    With the mask removed, her delicate beauty was revealed.

    Her visage, both pure andmanding, was stunningly beautiful, dazzling all present.

    "It really is the Seventh Princess!"

    Her appearance, her methods, her demeanor... were unchanged from before.

    Was she truly a fake princess, a high criminal, or was there more to her story?

    The cultivators were no fools; they pondered deeply, slowly understanding the situation.

    Divine Dawn did not bother to prove her identity; it was meaningless. After removing her mask, she withdrew the Primordial Pagoda, and an intact Sky Soaring City appeared.

    Within Sky Soaring City, countless people emerged from their panic, staring nkly up at the sky.

    Those two white figures represented everything.

    They had departed from Sky Soaring City, and now, they had returned.

    "Come up," Divine Dawn called out.

    For a moment, the ascenders captured by Lu Fan emerged from Sky Soaring City, and thousands gathered beside Divine Dawn.

    "Use what your eyes have witnessed to tell the Great Dao Celestial Realm what the mortal realm, which Immortals are sworn to protect, is undergoing right now!"

    Divine Dawn could have said it herself, but there might still be disbelievers.

    These ascenders, bearing their own hardships, spoke with trembling voices from which it was hard to hide lies.

    And they had proof. Countless pieces of proof! Each piece of evidence dered the cruel reality.

    "Liu Mumu was right..."

    Sky Soaring City had once been swept by such a storm! And now, it was bigger. Every dirty, unseen truth was revealed on this dark battlefield, exposing the bloody rawness of the mortal realm!

    "How can this be..."

    Disbelief rippled through the ranks of the Great Dao Celestial Army, Free Immortals, and the demons and devils of the Celestial Court.

    For the grassroots, the scattered cultivators, and the demons and devils, most were untouched by this level of reality!

    A fierce fire swept through everyone''s hearts.

    "The mortals of the mortal realm, used as nourishment for Immortals of Rank 6 and above in the Celestial Court?!"

    "The Longevity Immortal guarded the Ascension Pool, stewing those who ascended seeking justice for their mortal star!"

    "This is why the Celestial Court forbids ordinary Immortals from entering the mortal realm!"

    "The secret of the White Emperor and Crown Prince''s longevity was here..."

    Faces of shock, numbness, and trembling turned towards the girl in the white dress.

    They suddenly understood why, just days before, the Seventh Princess had died so abruptly. Who silenced her? Put that and what she did after her rebirth, even without her saying, the truth was crystal clear!

    At that moment, everyone''s hearts were profoundly shaken.

    The truth was often uglier and more brutal than imagined.

    "Do the Celestial Court''s high officials, who trivialize human lives, deserve to represent the heavenly way?"

    "With no virtue in the realm of Immortals, the high-ranking officials solidify their n''s position with incense offerings, while the lower Immortals flee for their lives! Where is the fairness?"

    "There are Rank 6 officials even within the Great Dao Celestial Army, aren''t there? To know if it''s true, just ask them!"

    Suddenly, all Heavenly Officers of Rank 6 and above within the Great Dao Celestial Army were pointed out by the masses.

    "Step forward," Divine Dawn spoke.

    "Seventh Princess..."

    The faces of the celestial generals turned ashen, their bodies trembling.

    Aware of the gravity of the situation and considering that Divine Dawn and Yun Xiaocked a base of popr support, they knew that acknowledgment of their mistakes might suffice.

    So, some obeyed and quickly stepped forward, kneeling in the void before Divine Dawn.

    "The Celestial Court has decreed that from Rank 6 upwards, those not sustained by incense offerings will be expelled from the Great Dao Celestial Army, even facing severe punishment. Please understand, Seventh Princess, I was oppressed by others, left with no choice!" an old general said, his eyes brimming with hot tears, his voiceden with misery.

    "I too was forced, please forgive me, Seventh Princess!"

    "I was forced as well!"

    As one celestial general after another desperately confessed, they inadvertently confirmed the truth of these ims.

    Many of the lower-ranked Immortals gasped in shock. They had not realized that such heinous, unwritten rules existed within the unseen upper echelons of their society.

    "We beg the Seventh Princess for forgiveness!"

    Finally, three Rank 2 Supreme Generals, leading about 300 celestial generals, 50 Great Horned Immortals, and several demons, all knelt before Divine Dawn!

    Almost all confessed voluntarily. And all that transpired here would be truthfully spread throughout the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    This time, no one could suppress the truth any longer!

    "The Chaos Sovereign... Lu Bufan clearly knew about the incense offerings, but he too did not disrupt these unwritten rules!"

    "How will the Seventh Princess handle them?"

    Everyone''s eyes turned to the girl in the white dress, their minds filled with some concern.

    The Seventh Princess was too young. People weren''t afraid of hercking talent, but rather feared her potentially unstable handling of the situation.

    At this moment, the ascenders seemed the most anxious. Gathering together, their eyes filled with hot tears, they looked on with anger and hatred at these officials of the Celestial Court.

    They dared not speak, fearing they might pressure Divine Dawn, causing her to act impulsively.

    "Seventh Princess!"

    The Golden Guard Supreme General of the Great Dao Celestial Army bowed his head, his voice filled with sincerity.

    "We, oppressed by the Celestial Court, havemitted grave errors that are inexcusable. We only hope you will grant us a chance to redeem ourselves by contributing ourst bit of strength to help you establish a new Celestial Court!"

    "Please give us a chance!"

    Thousands of officials bowed sincerely in unison.

    Their demeanor undoubtedly drove the ascenders to despair. These cultivators from the mortal realm knew all too well their own power was minusculepared to these officials.

    Indeed, these officials were useful to the Seventh Princess! If she truly wished to aplish anything, how could she do so without the support of the powerful in the Celestial Court?

    There had to be a chance for redemption¡ªonly then would they pledge allegiance, strengthening her ranks; otherwise, she would be blocking her own path.

    What could the numerous, but lower-ranked, do?

    "Sigh..." The crowd felt a mix of emotions, watching those Rank 6 and above officials kneeling, unsure what to say.

    Suddenly, Divine Dawn''s eyes locked onto the Golden Guard Supreme General, "You wish for my forgiveness?"

    "We beg the Seventh Princess to let us redeem ourselves," the Golden Guard Supreme General said.

    "I am not the victim, I have no right to forgive you," Divine Dawn responded.

    "That..." The Golden Guard Supreme General was taken aback.

    Divine Dawn then turned to the ascenders. "Can you forgive them? If you do, they can join me, and in the end, if we settle scores, they''lle out unscathed. So I ask you, and themon folk you represent, can you forgive them?"

    The ascenders stood frozen, their eyes red, throats burning, yet unable to utter a word.

    Without experiencing another''s suffering, one should not persuade them to showpassion.

    "Forgive, or not. With me here, you don¡¯t need to worry about the consequences, just tell me truthfully from your hearts, do they deserve to die?" Divine Dawn''s voice grew impassioned.

    Suddenly, a woman stepped forward, pointing at the Golden Guard Supreme General, "I don¡¯t believe he was forced, I don¡¯t believe any of them! Those whomit atrocities must face the consequences! I cannot forgive them!"

    As one spoke up, tears streamed down the faces of the ascenders, and one by one, they stood. At that moment, there was no hint of showing forgiveness. Their stares fixed on the officials, tears flowing freely...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 699: The Dream Is Over, But Theres No Returning Home

    Chapter 699: The Dream Is Over, But There''s No Returning Home

    The Chaos Emperor Lotus, his spirit keenly surveying the dim world around him, spoke with a voice that carried an unsettling chill.

    He knew well that the ancient bronze coffin was Yun Xiao¡¯s ultimate safeguard!

    The situation now turned troublesome.

    The Chaotic Spirit World was his dominion, yet entering this ancient bronze coffin felt like stepping into Yun Xiao¡¯s territory, where the young man turned the tables, making the guest the master.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Chaos Emperor Lotus struck the coffin lid, but failed to break it open.

    Unknown to him, each blow he dealt drained a vast portion of Yun Xiao¡¯s riches.

    And so, the situation remained perilous!

    ¡°Truly a fine coffin¡­¡± The Chaos Emperor Lotus, spinning within, cast a ghastly glow.

    ¡°You¡¯ve grown greedy,¡± Yun Xiao said.¡°I have a premonition,¡± Lu Fan spoke amid the coffin¡¯s mist, finding the young man in white and saying earnestly, ¡°Defeating you, I will soar anew, escaping this petty mire, unstoppable through eternity.¡±

    ¡°Is that so? If I defeat you, it would merely please my Senior Sister Zhao for a few days,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°Hehehe¡­ You have a knack for being nauseating,¡± Lu Fanughed.

    What he didn¡¯t realize was that Yun Xiao spoke the truth¡ªalready, heroes from the factions of Risen Nobodies and Reborn Immortal Emperors had been sent to amuse Zhao Xuanran.

    Now, it was the System trying to take a shot at him. At his core was a Chaos Soul.

    ¡°Show me what you¡¯ve got; turn-based games can be quite fun,¡± Lu Fan said calmly.

    ¡°Spend some money to y him a <em>requiem</em>,¡± Yun Xiao suggested to those around.

    ¡°A song to think¡­¡± Lu Fan was scoffing when the requiem began to y within the coffin.

    His first reaction was that it was unbearable, grating like wood on wood, clearly sung by Red Moon.

    But soon, waves of gray mist, apanying the requiem, sprouted from the coffin¡¯s walls and crept toward the Chaos Emperor Lotus.

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>As the mist touched the Chaos Emperor Lotus, the petals of his spirit began to smoke, decay, desate, and rot.

    ¡°Are you mad, dragging someone into a coffin then dousing them with soul acid?¡± Lu Fan was rmed.

    Yun Xiao grinned. ¡°Just say if it worked or not!¡±

    It was in to see whether it was effective or not.

    Amidst the thick swirling miasma, the petals of the Chaos Emperor Lotus wilted and decayed swiftly.

    Blue Star and Red Moon were, with all their might, furiously spending fortunes to secure this foe for Yun Xiao.

    "GAHH!" Lu Fan''s cries of agony rose quickly.

    The sensation of being sshed with <em>acid</em> was undeniably agonizing. The Chaos Emperor Lotus trembled wildly, its fully bloomed petals contracting fiercely back into a bud... but even this was futile!

    Under the devouring gray mist, even the bud was riddled with holes.

    This sudden, devastating blow was undoubtedly beyond the Greatest War God''s expectations; he went from ecstasy to agony in a mere moment!

    Lu Fan''s <em>expression</em> darkenedpletely.

    "Is this local nobody really that strong?"

    Yun Xiao''s defiance of the heavens once again surpassed Lu Fan¡¯s imagination to a baffling extent.

    He had no idea what this gray mist was, only that it uniquely countered his own Chaos Emperor Lotus!

    "System, isn¡¯t the Chaos Emperor Lotus supposed to be indestructible, immune to all harm?"

    Lu Fan <em>sweated</em> profusely as he endured the excruciating pain, his head throbbing and vision blurring.

    The gray mist also possessed a hallucinatory power, shaking his resolve and stirring up the unrest and numbness within him!

    "AGHH!!" He began to scream heartrendingly within the ancient bronze coffin, the sound shaking the coffin violently, causing Blue Star and Red Moon to silently grimace.

    They were burning through fortunes every second, and they were weary too!

    Why hadn¡¯t it finished him off yet?

    With their trump card yed, there was no turning back!

    From polite conversation to a struggle for survival, it all happened in an instant.

    The Chaos Emperor Lotus contracted into a golden-ck sphere, making its final stand. Its chaotic soul power vibrated wildly, pushing Yun Xiao back and even bending his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The coffin continued to tremble.

    "How about now?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "It''s tough! I''m all in!" Blue Star gritted out.

    "Truly fierce." Yun Xiao thought he was close to dealing with Lu Fan, but even with his trump card yed, the kill was provingborious.

    He stared intently, seeing the golden-ck sphere roaring like a titanic beast of the soul amidst the gray mist.

    "I¡¯ll pay, just take the money, stop hurting me..."

    "Please, I¡¯m begging you, I¡¯ll pay back the money right away."

    "Mom! Mom! You must wait for me, I''lle home. I have money now, I can cure your illness..."

    "Mom!" His voice was hoarse with crying, trembling with the weight of his innermost demons, the same fears he couldn''t escape even as he faced death in his previous life.

    "System! System!" Lu Fan roared, a flicker of spirit returning, "I don''t want to die, I want to go home! Please, give me a way out!"

    <em>DING! </em>In front of him appeared a line of golden text¡ªn/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡¸<em>System Alert: At a dead end, an additional three souls and six spirits are required to survive. Please choose.</em>

    <em>Option One: ept.</em>

    <em>Option Two: Agree.</em>¡¹

    "Uh." Lu Fan shuddered with horror.

    The two options unveiled his deepest panicpletely.

    His whole world darkened, with death looming before him, only the glittering gold of the two options shone in his eyes.

    "Mom, wait for me..." Lu Fan clenched his teeth, struggling and crawling, his hands pressing on both options simultaneously.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "The timing is just about right!" Blue Star eximed excitedly.

    Yun Xiao focused his gaze and saw that the golden-ck sphere had been reduced significantly.

    Lu Fan''s influence was fading!

    "Is this victory? Just a bit of money did it?" Yun Xiao was still somewhat dazed.

    At that moment, a sudden change urred.

    The ck and gold sphere exploded suddenly, a beast-shaped cloud of mist roaring as it burst through the fog, mming the coffin lid open with brute force!

    "Chaos Soul!" Blue Star sneered.

    The beast-shaped mist burst out of the ancient bronze coffin, and in an instant, the entire world twisted and tore apart!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The spatial fabric of the Great Dao Celestial Realm surged like a torrent, rushing into Yun Xiao¡¯s vision!

    "It''s escaped!" Yun Xiao instantly lost track of the Chaos Soul, realizing the opportunity had slipped away. He swiftly retracted the ancient bronze coffin.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The world returned to normal.

    Yun Xiao stood in the empty expanse of heaven and earth.

    Looking into the distance... the Great Dao Celestial Army, the Free Immortals, demons, and devils, they were all still there!

    Beneath the dark canopy, except for those who had perished, everything remained.

    Even Lu Fan''s Nine Dragons Agarwood Chariot still floated in the sky!

    However, many of the strong foes who had besieged themy dead, with the surviving wounded anxiously awaiting the oue.

    When they saw Lu Fan had vanished and Yun Xiao appeared unscathed, it was as if the sky had fallen and the earth had split open in their hearts!

    Yet, Yun Xiao paid them no heed.

    "It escaped?" he asked Blue Star again.

    "If the Chaos Soul chose to reveal itself, then it''s definitely gone," Blue Star replied listlessly.

    The gray mist might have seemed simple, but it had nearly depleted all the fortunes he''d amassed earlier. Powerful, yes, but certainly costly!

    "What now?" Yun Xiao asked further.

    "From here, the Chaos Soul takes the lead, making it tougher to deal with. It will grow stronger and drop any pretense," Blue Star said.

    "Alright."

    Disgusting as it was, this was an inevitable conclusion. In the System''s <em>game</em>, the otherworld travelers were but age-old puppets, with the System itself being the true ruler.

    Had Yun Xiao not interfered, the Chaos Soul wouldn¡¯t have needed to expose itself so soon. The fatter the pig, the better the handover.

    Now the pig was still lean, forced by Yun Xiao to show its hand, tearing apart the charade... The Chaos Soul had to be raging!

    "If there¡¯s no escape, then I''ll continue to y this out with you."

    Honestly, Yun Xiao had hoped his adversary would be Lu Fan, at least he was a flesh-and-blood being.

    Regrettably, it seemed Lu Fan''s dream had ended.

    Looking into the distance, Yun Xiao took a deep breath.

    "Regardless, the first problem is resolved. Next, while there¡¯s time, I''ll set the Celestial Court''s affairs in order, addressing the matter of the incense offerings..."

    His gaze moved to the Nine Dragons Agarwood Chariot and the numb and listless Great Dao Celestial Army, Free Immortals, demons, and devils.

    Behind him, a pair of zing eyes watched!

    Yun Xiao knew whose they were...

 Chapter 701: Worst Villain Under Heaven!

    Chapter 701: Worst Viin Under Heaven!

    ¡°Ah¡­¡± The Golden Guard Supreme General sighed in resignation, addressing Divine Dawn, "Seventh Princess, their feelings are understandable. But what they don¡¯t know is that the root of the Celestial Court''s evil isn''t us¡ªit''s the White Emperor. Having suffered under his oppression, many like us are willing to lend their strength to help you overthrow him. Please, grant us sinners a chance at redemption!¡±

    "Yun Xiao." Divine Dawn suddenly turned, facing the youth holding his sword against the wind, and asked, "What do you think?"

    Seeing her face, a beacon of salvation for all, Yun Xiao said, ¡°I follow your lead.¡±

    ¡°Good!¡± Divine Dawn bit her lip, ¡°Then help me¡ªkill them!¡±n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao paused, taken aback. He gazed into her eyes. She could empathize with the most ordinary of folks, which was why her emotions were far more intense than Yun Xiao¡¯s.

    And she needed someone to support and affirm her thoughts.

    "Alright." Without making her wait, Yun Xiao uttered just that one word and moved past her, grasping the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, and advanced towards the group of celestial officials.

    ¡°Seventh Princess!¡±

    The celestial officials, including the Golden Guard Supreme General, could hardly believe their ears.¡°You''re making a mistake! By acting like this, you sever all paths of surrender for all the high officials of the Celestial Court!¡±

    ¡°Just you two and a band of ragtag rebels, how could you possibly overthrow the Celestial Court?!¡±

    ¡°Please, grant us a chance at redemption!¡±

    ¡°Seventh Princess!¡±

    Their cries, stillden with grief, turned to shouts of anger.

    ¡°Are you mad? What rashness is this?¡±

    ¡°ying the saint? Did you, Seventh Princess, never receive incense offerings since your youth?¡±

    ¡°If receiving incense offerings means death, shouldn''t all the high echelons of the Celestial Court deserve death?¡±

    Of course, these were but furious mutters under their breath.

    ¡°Seventh Princess, you can deal with us after the battle, just spare us this once!¡± Seeing Yun Xiao approach, the Golden Guard Supreme General''s heart quivered, and he pleaded.

    Hearing this, the ascenders panicked. They feared too many might need dealing with afterwards, and what if it all just faded into oblivion?

    In a sh of lightning, a streak of azure light pierced through the crowd.

    "Uh..."

    The Golden Guard Supreme General touched the bloody hole at his brow and slowly copsed to the ground with a thud.

    "Enough talk, be on your way," Yun Xiao caught the Flying Sword and addressed the gathered thousands.

    The Supreme General was dead!

    The celestial officials looked down, their hearts turning to ice. But the ascenders and the people of Sky Soaring City cheered and apuded.

    Divine Dawn and Lu Yao had not let down those simple, honest folk at the bottom.

    "Kill him, flee!"

    The Rank 6 and higher officials stood, their faces twisted in rage. Some fled, some charged at Yun Xiao, and some turned their wrath on the ascenders!

    Chaos erupted anew!

    Amid this turmoil, the figure in white with an azure sword and violet umbre charged into the fray, leaving a trail of corpses and blood in his wake.

    Swords shed, lightning struck, souls shimmered, and demonic magic and blood magic swept across the field.

    In mere moments, the white shadow crossed the sky, and thousands of heads were neatly arrayed before the ascenders, not one missed.

    "Uh..."

    The Great Dao Celestial Army, ascenders, Free Immortals, and the demons and devils of the Celestial Court were speechless, their throats too dry to speak.

    With a flick of his wrist, Yun Xiao let the heads fall in a rush.

    "All that self-praise, and you all fall in mere moments. Still, you boast of your importance."

    Shrugging, Yun Xiao stepped back beside Divine Dawn.

    "Continue," he said.

    "Mhm..."

    After witnessing this, her gaze softened considerably as she looked at Yun Xiao.

    From this moment forth, the truth was revealed! Those deserving of death had died!

    A mortal star snuffed out, countless billions of lives cut short and harvested as incense offerings¡­ some of the in had engaged in this act more than several times!

    Divine Dawn swept her gaze across the assembly, her voice ringing out, "Today, by beheading these officials, I dere to the heavens and the earth that those who''ve harmed others with incense offerings have but one fate¡ªdeath!"

    The crowd erupted!

    The ascenders, the people of Sky Soaring City, and many from the Great Dao Celestial Army and Free Immortals, were shaken by her words.

    "The Seventh Princess is fierce and decisive!"

    "Of course, she has the qualities of an Empress!"

    "Too bad she''s already taken¡­"

    "I must admit, I respect her partner!"

    "Respect!"

    In an instant, her poprity soared.

    Seizing this momentum, she surveyed the crowd, proiming, "From now on, I ask all present to join me in battle. Together, let''s oust the Celestial Court, expel the invaders from Naraka, rebuild the Immortalnds, and establish clear celestialws to protect all living beings!"

    "Yes!"

    Countless Immortals roared with fervor.

    In that moment, there were no distinctions of ss or n; everyone was united by amon ideal.

    Divine Dawn effectively took over the forces abandoned by Lu Fan, especially notable were the Great Dao Celestial Army and Free Immortals!

    Soon, several strong individuals, who weren''t associated with the incense offerings, came forward to pledge their allegiance to Divine Dawn.

    Among them was the Free Immortal known as the Red Cloud Monarch, the Ancient Darkmoon Demon, and a half-devil called the Galewing King.

    These were notable figures in their respective groups, second only to the likes of the Peni Sage, Lunar Demon Mistress, and Great Horned King.

    As for the Great Dao Celestial Army, Yun Xiao had all but wiped out their high-ranking officials.

    "Are you taking over?" Divine Dawn asked the youth in white standing behind her.

    "Sure," Yun Xiao replied. "I''ll take them all back to the Thunder Department andmand them alongside the Arbiter Legion, ready to strike at the Heavenly Pce at any time."

    Thebined forces of the Great Dao Celestial Army and Thunder Department''s Arbiter Legion wererger than the Constetion Army, bing a major force of the Celestial Court.

    The forces oncemanded by Lu Fan paled inparison to what Yun Xiao now wielded!

    "Then we''ll make your Thunder Department the foundation," Divine Dawn dered.

    "Mhm." Yun Xiao nodded with a smile.

    With her around, he suddenly felt the ease of a hands-off manager.

    It was quite refreshing!

    Yun Xiao never liked being the center of attention as a savior; it was too exhausting and didn''t suit his temperament.

    "What''s our next move?" Divine Dawn asked.

    "Return to the Thunder Department first, watch those fighting at the Heavenly Pce tear each other apart?" Yun Xiao suggested.

    "Exactly my thought," Divine Dawn paused, "You keep an eye on the battle situation in the Heavenly Pce."

    "And you?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I want to keep tabs on Lu Fan; he''s not dead, and that could spell trouble." Divine Dawn furrowed her brows.

    "Mhm." Yun Xiao nodded.

    They had indeed won the battle today. It seemed they had beaten Lu Fan into the dust! But Yun Xiao knew that as long as that Chaos Soul survived, it would rise again.

    "I should go now," Divine Dawn said.

    "Wait." Yun Xiao watched her in the wind, then extended his hand.

    "For what?" she asked.

    "A flying talisman," Yun Xiao paused, "So I can find you whenever I want."

    Divine Dawn bit her lip, looking at him. After a moment, she huffed softly, tossing some flying talismans into his hand, and murmured with a flushed face, "Sooner orter, I''ll have to deal with you too!"

    Having spoken, she turned into a streak of white light, blending into the wind and vanishing from sight.

    "To the Thunder Department, all of you!" Yun Xiaomanded the army.

    He himself stepped into the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    Inside the boat, Gu Suwan and Yue Yin wore grave expressions, tinged with sorrow.

    "What''s the matter?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    Gu Suwan sighed softly, "We''re done for."

    "How so?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "You heard what your woman said, didn''t you? Those who partook in the incense offerings are doomed," Yue Yin interjected with a nce.

    Gu Suwan seemed distant, murmuring, "Never mind, don¡¯t trouble yourself... We''ve epted our fate long ago, don''t let us ruin your rtionship. The Seventh Princess is a good girl."

    Yun Xiao chuckled at this. "What are you thinking? Don¡¯t overestimate yourselves; you two can¡¯t possibly jeopardize my rtionship with her."

    Gu Suwan looked at him, speechless. Despite his words, her heart sank a little.

    Yet, as they wallowed in their disappointment, Yun Xiao suddenly added, "However, I won''t let you die."

    "Why?" Both women asked simultaneously, barely believing their ears.

    Yun Xiao looked in the direction Divine Dawn had departed.

    "I''m not her. I don¡¯t bear her moral shackles. I¡¯m more selfish and whimsical. My actions are guided by my heart. In her world, ck and white are indisputable. But in mine, there are exceptions! You are my people; I decide your fate.

    "It''s not that I don''t understand where she''sing from. It''s only natural for the oppressed to want to overthrow the oppressors. But I can also see an argument for forgiving those who are truly repentant. After all, you all grew up indoctrinated into believing this was normal.

    "And who''s to say death will wash away your sins anyway? If anything, death is a mercy. So, continue living, and continue dedicating your existence to repenting, no matter how insurmountable."

    Afterward, Yun Xiao turned to Gu Suwan, "Especially you. You¡¯ve already bought your life from me with True Immortal Jades."

    Both women were stunned by his deration.

    Yue Yin pursed her lips, finally saying, "Put simply, you''re just a selfish scoundrel. if your nature is good, then all is well. But if you were vile at heart, that would be truly problematic. Acting on whims without any rules, you¡¯d be the worst viin under heaven."

    "That makes sense... If I had to choose a ruler, I''d choose the Seventh Princess. She''s clear with her rules, unlike your whims," Gu Suwan pondered.

    "Enough from both of you," Yun Xiao said, exasperated. "I spare your lives, and here you are, biting the hand that feeds. Be careful, or I might just act on a whim and end you right here."

    "What betrayal?" Gu Suwan chuckled softly. "I see it now; you and the Seventh Princess, you''re not cut from the same cloth, not meant to share the same door. You are perfect for each other in your opposition."

 Chapter 702: Perfect World!

    Chapter 702: Perfect World!

    Yun Xiao, apanied by the forces that pledged allegiance to him and Divine Dawn, returned to the Thunder Department.

    As for the battlefield, it was left for others to clean.

    The upper echelons of Lu Fan''s power were nearly wiped out.

    This fierce battle was even more rewarding than thest at the Thunder Department, including notable figures like the Peni Sage and the Great Horned King¡ªeach a substantial prize.

    These victories were significant, not just for Yun Xiao, but also for the War Princess and Pale Revenant.

    As they made their way back to the Thunder Department, news of the events at Sky Soaring City had already spread across the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    The truth was out, tainting both the Celestial Court and Lu Fan together.

    Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn became the new hope of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    In an instant, a fire to overthrow the old order zed through the entire Celestial Court.The Thunder Department became the beacon of the Celestial Court!

    The movement to fight for themon folk drew countless fervent cultivators, from all origins, to the Thunder Department.

    The crowd surged like a fiery torrent.

    Yun Xiao kept his eye on every reaction and movement within the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    When he heard that the Celestial Court''s imperial family had incited public fury, and that Immortals were gathering at the Thunder Department to join him in overturning the Celestial Court, his heart swelled with satisfaction.

    "This world, ultimately, leans towards the good. Even if the helmsman is a scoundrel, he can''t drag everyone down to hell with him."

    Such thoughts affirmed the value of Yun Xiao¡¯s endeavors.

    His ideals and sincere beliefs were affirmed!

    "To the Thunder Department!"

    "Follow the Seventh Princess, follow Lu Yao!"

    To this day, people still thought of him as the young Arbiter from Sky Soaring City who loved to draw.

    But whether it was Yun Xiao or Lu Yao, names hardly mattered.

    People were following the man himself!

    "Sweep the Celestial Court of its malice, establish the divine rules of the celestial realm!"

    Under the banner of Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn, the Arbiters of the Thunder Department, celestial soldiers of the Great Dao Celestial Army, and even the ordinary Immortals continued rallying together.

    "At this rate, the Heavenly Pce will be overshadowed," Yue Yin said, exhrated by the spirited and blood-pumping scene at the Thunder Department.

    "The virtuous gain followers, the wicked lose them," Gu Suwan murmured deeply.

    "He''s right." Yue Yin sighed. "I am truly grateful to him for giving me a chance to repent. I don¡¯t know what else I can do, but since this life was saved, it¡¯s worth giving it up for him again."

    Gu Suwan spoke with a lightness that defied the gravity of their situation. "I believe we don''t need to burden ourselves too heavily. Hecks trustworthy people to help him organize and manage his ever-growing support. That''s a task for us. We''ll do our best, and once the dust settles, we''ll talk about life and death."

    "Indeed..."

    With these words, Yue Yin seemed to find her direction.

    "I''ll go and settle the Great Dao Celestial Army, Free Immortals, and the demons and devils of the Celestial Court, while you stabilize the Thunder Department''s Arbiter forces," she said.

    "Too many people can lead to chaos, and there are those who will take advantage of the confusion," Gu Suwan noted.

    "Let''s get to it."

    Upon their return to the Thunder Department, the two women were swept up in a flurry of activity.

    As expected, Yun Xiao quickly became an absentee leader, vanishing in the blink of an eye.

    He was at the Hall of Soaring Thunder, meeting with Pale Revenant.

    "Spit it out." Yun Xiao pointed to her slightly engorged stomach.

    "Mmm." Pale Revenant, her face flushing as she lowered her head, then regurgitated the spoils of the battlefield that suited Yun Xiao¡ªSword Souls, Life Sigils, and more, including blood.

    Expressionless, Yun Xiao collected the Sword Bones, Life Sigils, Buddha''s Treasures, and Seeds of Creation.

    The Peni Sage had 66 Sword and Rune Prisons.

    After reaping the spoils of war, Yun Xiao had achieved 81 Sword Prisons and 80 Rune Prisons. Advancing further was challenging. Among the Sword Souls and Life Sigils he''d absorbed, the Peni Sage¡¯s was the most powerful. The rest fell far below.

    Even so, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and Prison Warden Sigil were now far stronger.

    Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit had also grown significantly.

    "I don''t see where I can find more sources of high quality destion. So, there''s no need to send Moon Fairy out for now."

    Yun Xiao refined the blood of the in with the Blood Base within him. Then, he looked up at the sky and remarked, "The fourth tribtion of the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion is starting."

    Above, crimson tribtion clouds gathered and transformed into cascades of Wood Spirit Thunder, crashing down furiously.

    <em>CRACKLE! </em>Yun Xiao, with his fused physique, endured the Wood Spirit Thunder. His Blood Base''s celestial power transformed under its baptism, and he remained unscathed.

    Soon after, the fifth and most challenging tribtion, the Gold Origin Thunder, descended.

    This trial was more demanding; had the War Princess faced it herself, it might have required considerable effort.

    However, Yun Xiao had easily shouldered the burden for her.

    "The Mortal Dust Devil Blood has advanced the fastest; it''s in the Establishment Anima Tribtion Realm now."

    Currently, his Divine Destion Physique was in the Late Anima Tribtion Realm, while his true self was still a Golden Immortal.

    "Why hasn''t my true self triggered the first of the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion yet? It wouldn''t be stirring up the heavenly order to eliminate me again, would it?"

    Yun Xiao felt it was quite possible as he continued cultivating with the Primordial Void Technique. He had a sense of foreboding.

    "Anyway,pared to before the showdown at Sky Soaring City, I''ve grown stronger."

    Yun Xiao stretched his muscles, then boarded the Azure Rain Sword Vessel and said to Pale Revenant, "Come with me."

    "Just the two of us?" Pale Revenant asked nervously.

    "Aren''t there three of us, counting the one lying down?" Yun Xiao pointed at the War Princess'' <em>mummified</em> corpse in the crystal coffin.

    "I feel bad for her. Poor big sis," Pale Revenant said sympathetically.

    "Poor nothing; it''s just a nap. When she wakes up, she''ll break through several stages." Yun Xiao chuckled.

    It wasn''t her first time being detached from the Blood Base; she was used to it by now and no longer felt like she was drowning.

    <em>VROOM! </em>Without further ado, Yun Xiao fired up the Azure Rain Sword Vessel and sped toward the Heavenly Pce.

    "Where are we going?" Pale Revenant asked, directionally challenged.

    "Supper was good; now I''m taking you out for ate-night snack," Yun Xiao said lightly, facing the wind.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the divinend of the Celestial Court, the fierce battle was still raging on, already reaching a fever pitch.

    Whether demon, devil, or Immortal, all had blood in their eyes.

    Within the entire Sacred Emperor Barrier, corpses and blood were everywhere, none intact¡ªheads, arms, beast ws, and demon brains floated around.

    Of course, the true carnage produced more gore than met the eye.

    More than ny percent of the remains, even as they floated, had already developed the resentment of death, consumed by the gluttonous Great Mother, bing part of her.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    As far as the eye could see, the Constetion Army, 18 Department Legions, and Naraka''s forces had plunged into a maelstrom of death.

    Lives charged forward only to be devoured by death, sacrificed for the greed and self-interest of those in power.

    "We haven''t broken through yet!"

    The colossal shadow, wrought from corpse blood, bore the entirety of the deathly force of the Sacred Emperor Barrier

    By her design, Naraka''s forces should have broken free by now!

    The longer they lingered in the Sacred Emperor Barrier, the worse it fared for her forces.

    "Devil Eye!"

    On the Great Mother''s flesh mass, several mangled eyes squeezed forth, ring at the crimson giant eye behind her, she growled, "You''re not pulling your weight!"

    The crimson giant eye met the gaze of the numerous eyes on the flesh mass, then calmly said, "Watch."

    With that, the boundless bloody eye swept across the battlefield!

    Humming vibrations emanated from the crimson eyeball, and the battlefield echoed with wails. Then, in an instant, waves of blood-red ripples pulsed from the giant blood-eye, crashing over the battlefield like tidal waves.

    Wave after wave of these blood-red ripples, so vast and unstoppable, engulfed everything¡ªdemons, devils, and Immortals alike¡ªswept away in the red light in the blink of an eye!

    Among them, it was clear to see the eyes of the Celestial Court''s Immortals quickly clouding with blood. This blood haze drove them mad, their faces contorted, losing all reason, turning into zombie-like creatures.

    They shrieked horrifically, transforming from defenders against demons and devils into indiscriminate attackers, striking foes and allies alike.

    Their primary objective shifted from defense to ughter, pure and chaotic.

    This led to the copse of the Constetion Army''s defense line in a mere moment; those Immortals, turned into fierce devils, ran amok,pletely abandoning the disciplined formations that were their greatest strength.

    "Quickly!" The Devil Eye created chaos across the battlefield, then urged the Great Mother.

    Even the Great Mother was surprised by the power of the Devil Eye.

    "So effective, why didn''t you use it earlier?" she said coldly.

    "It needs to feed on the blood and resentment of the deceased!" the Devil''s Eye replied, not without irritation.

    With a grunt of eptance, the Great Mother embraced the exnation and seized the opportunity tounch an offensive. Leading the vast army of demons and devils, she tore through the Constetion Army''s defenses, surging towards the Heavenly Pce with unstoppable force.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Once her mountainous mass of flesh and blood gathered momentum, nothing could stand in her way. Any member of the Constetion Army caught within her path was devoured alive, their bodies absorbed into her own, their lives extinguished instantly.

    Even if they resisted, at best, they could tear only a small piece of flesh from the Great Mother, which exploded into a mist of blood but did little to stop her.

    On the battlefield, the corpse demon was an undying shield, her power seemingly limitless.

    This was precisely why the White Emperor had so dreaded the Great Mother.

    Today, with the Devil Eye''s aid, she dominated the battlefield,pletely overpowering the Celestial Court''s elite Constetion Army.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A veritable mountain of flesh and blood, followed by a dense army of demons and devils, zed a bloody trail through the ranks of the Constetion Army.

    With a thunderous roar, thend ahead suddenly cleared, revealing a serene, elegant realm shrouded in celestial mist and breathtaking beauty. The fablednd of paradise appeared before the horde of blood-soaked demons and devils!

    "Wow!"

    Many demons and devils, having breached the Sacred Emperor Barrier, beheld the legendary Heavenly Pce for the first time and couldn''t help but exim in awe.

    Compared to the barren, disaster-stricken, deste realm they came from, this splendid Heavenly Pce was a dreamy paradise, even more perfect than the most fantastical dreams they had conjured!

    "A perfect world!"

    The Great Mother, a conglomeration of corpses, in some sense retained the will of the beings she devoured, and her entity had consumed mostly demons!

    Her body sprouted countless eyes, each one transfixed on the celestial pces, treating the ce as if it were a sulent, multicolored peach, her numerous mouths salivating with eager anticipation.

    "Eat! Eat! Eat!"

    "This will all belong to us!"

    "This is our new home!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 703: Karmic Retribution!

    Chapter 703: Karmic Retribution!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Like hungry wolves spotting blood-soaked raw meat, the greed of Naraka''s forces was fully unleashed.

    Their gazes swept over the Heavenly Pce, seeing the Constetion Army, countless treasures, glimmering crystals, and naturally, the beautiful celestial maidens and sweet, delicious celestial infants...

    Madness took hold! Complete madness!

    "Kill! Kill!"

    Amidst the deafening roar of the Great Mother, akin to a grand chorus, the eyes of Naraka''s forces turned bloodshot. No devilish magic was needed to corrupt their minds; they willingly became vessels of voracious greed!

    No rallying was required. One by one, demons and devils followed the Great Mother through the Sacred Emperor Barrier, breaking through the encirclement, plunging towards the streets and celestial pces below!

    The battlefield spread from the Sacred Emperor Barrier to the hearnd of the Celestial Court.

    For the imperial family, this was an unbearable catastrophe.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A massive reserve of the Constetion Army surged from the celestial pces below, forming ranks to confront the Great Mother and her army of demons and devils!!The Heaven-Reaching Constetion, Nine Arcanes Constetion, and Martial Peak Constetion descended from the Sacred Emperor Barrier, leading a revitalized portion of the Constetion Army and reinforcements from the 18 Department Legions, charging towards the Great Mother.

    "Anyone who dares enter the Heavenly Pce shall be in without mercy!"

    The furious roar of the Heaven-Reaching Constetion echoed across half the divinend of the Celestial Court.

    His anger highlighted the urgency within.

    Never since its foundation had the Celestial Court allowed any army to prate its divinend¡ªthis was a historic first. Now, to speak of humiliation was pointless; at this moment, preserving the glory of the Celestial Court and the lives of the imperial family was of utmost urgency!

    It was a matter of life and death!

    The high and mighty imperial family was now cornered.

    "Stop them, kill! Kill! Kill!"

    The Three Great Constetions tookmand, summoning more of the Constetion Army, striving to hold back the demons and devils that surged into the divinend.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The two forces shed in mid-air, celestial weapons, Sword Souls, and Life Sigils shing against fangs, ws, demon magic, and blood arts, instantly sttering the sky with blood!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    For the first time, that blood sshed upon the magnificent celestial pces of the divinend, as destructive divine might descended, shattering pce after pce. In moments, this serene and exalted ce was transformed into a vortex of blood and ruins!

    This sight undoubtedly tore at the hearts of the Constetion Army!

    But their rage was futile. The insatiable greed of Naraka''s forces dictated everything, and more demons and devils crossed through the Sacred Emperor Barrier, circling and diving towards the rear of the Heavenly Pce. Once inside, any people caught were immediately ughtered, torn apart, and devoured.

    The demon and devils revealed their savage nature to the fullest in that instant, as a blood-red darkness momentarily cloaked the entire Heavenly Pce. Blood rained down, slowly turning the pristine pces into a hellishndscape of death and decay.

    "Kill! Eat! Plunder!"

    The Great Mother, too, seemed mad, herughter¡ªa mix of male and female tones¡ªechoed loudly as her massive mountain of flesh and blood crushed countless pces beneath her. She smotheredrge numbers of the Constetion Army and pce men and women alive, absorbing them into her body and making them part of her growing resentment.

    Looking around, half of the Heavenly Pce was quickly stained red with blood. The flesh mountain moved, growingrger with each step, while the celestial mist turned into a mist of blood, enveloping everything.

    From afar, the cries of the terrified imperial family rose. These beings, born with a silver spoon and ustomed to viewing lives as mere candles or chaff, only now understood the fear of losing their dignity when all their protections were stripped away.

    The cries of despair mixed with maniacalughter formed a chaotic symphony.

    "Haha. Hehe! Chew chew! Kakaka! Hehehe!"

    The Great Mother''s mountain of flesh sprouted countless mouths¡ªhuman, dog, bird¡ªallughing bizarrely, like a giant snail, she rolled over celestial pce after pce, leaving a trail of slimy destruction.

    "We can''t solve this disaster without killing the Great Mother!"

    Above in the sky, the Three Great Constetions gathered, their faces ashen, lips trembling.

    "Where is His Majesty? Where is the Crown Prince?" The Nine Arcanes Constetion trembled.

    "The Crown Prince is still at the Taiwei Imperial Pce, overseeing everything, while His Majesty is said to be cracking the Immortal Asylum..." the Heaven-Reaching Constetion said.

    "Breaking through the Immortal Asylum makes sense! What''s there to oversee anymore? They''ve breached our home!" the Martial Peak Constetion snarked, his face twisted with rage. "If you ask me, the Crown Prince is nothing but a giant manchild, a good-for-nothing nurtured for thousands of years! Such a waste of devotion!"

    "Shut up!" The Heaven-Reaching Constetion shot him a re. His heart bled, his lips bitten to bleeding, he shakily said, "There''s no point in talking about this now. If we don''t stop her soon, our dynasty''s thousand-year foundation will truly be finished! To be defeated by a corpse demon, even in death, our ancestors would scorn our spines! If those two won''t act, we must sacrifice ourselves first!"

    The Nine Arcanes and Martial Peak Constetions clenched their teeth, breathing heavily. As they opened their eyes, everything they prided themselves on was being ground into the dust by the Great Mother!

    The disappearance of the Five Infernos Star Barrier was too great a blow to their imperial line, leaving only the Sacred Emperor Barrier, a fitting end under these circumstances...

    Now, it seemed, Lu Fan''s strategy was the most lethal!

    "Charge!"

    Although the Martial Peak Constetion was the first to curse the Crown Prince, he was now the first to rush towards the Great Mother.

    "For the eternal prosperity of our imperial dynasty, kill, kill, kill!" the Heaven-Reaching Constetionmanded. Wielding a six-foot sword, the stars shifted as he charged at the Great Mother.

    "Wait for me...!" The Nine Arcanes Constetion followed, her tears streaming down the celestial pces below.

    "Destiny is determined by cause and effect; all things face retribution! The Great Mother was born when our dynasty first utilized the incense offerings! And now, as our dynasty faces cmity with no one to aid, the tide turns eastward... It''s the incense offerings, indeed, that herald our true extinction."

    For the first time, the Nine Arcanes Constetion felt profound regret. Yet, even with reverence in her heart, she could not resist temptation. Now, only a desperate struggle remained.

    In her eyes, the Great Mother was not merely a supreme demon; she was retribution, a destiny. Her countless faces, enraged and anguished, began as human faces¡ªthe Great Mother''s core formed of her own human kin!

    "Eat! Eat! Ahahaha! Eat!"

    The human faces on the core of the Great Mother twisted, unleashing towering grievances, filling the entirety of the Celestial Demon Abyss with the stench of blood and flesh. Now, they plunged the Heavenly Pce into a mire of stink, disaster, and bitter resentment.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The attacks from the Three Great Constetions struck the mountain of flesh and blood, sting huge, gaping wounds that spurted blood, shredding theughing faces.

    Yet, the Great Mother did not halt her advance toward the Taiwei Imperial Pce, sprouting countless eyes on her body, which stared fixedly at the Three Great Constetions.

    "Halt! You step further into the realm of our dynasty, and not even your corpse will remain intact!" The Heaven-Reaching Constetion, wielding his massive sword, bellowed with a chilling voice.

    "Not even a corpse? Hehehe, I''m already dead, we are long past being whole corpses..."

    The mountain of fleshughed manically.

    <em>SNAP! CRACKLE! POP! </em>Her enormous mass suddenly contracted, and in front of the Three Great Constetions, she transformed into an eight-foot-tall woman with pale skin, flowing ck hair, and a grotesquely wide, crimson mouth¡ªan eerie, chilling beauty.

    "You...!" Just as the Heaven-Reaching Constetion was about to speak, he suddenly realized the eight-foot woman had vanished.

    He whirled around, his instincts screaming, shing with his sword!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The eight-foot woman caught his Sword Soul with her palm.

    The Sword Soul, containing the might of 83 Sword Prisons, remained utterly still.

    "Great Mother!" The Heaven-Reaching Constetion''s eyes widened in horror.

    As he uttered those words, the Great Mother''s other hand yanked his head from his neck, along with his esophagus, trachea, and windpipe, stuffing them into her gaping maw.

    <em>CRUNCH! CRUNCH! CRUNCH! </em>She crushed his head to pieces, and a mix of red and white blood cascaded from the corners of her mouth.

    With a satisfied look, she closed her eyes and giggled, "The vor of devotion is delicious, so very delicious..."

 Chapter 704: Hell in the Heavenly Palace!

    Chapter 704: Hell in the Heavenly Pce!

    The Heaven-Reaching Constetion was the very soul of the Constetion Army.

    His gruesome demise was, for every soldier of that army, akin to a rending, ruthless devastation of their conviction.

    When the Great Mother devoured his corpse whole, wails of unbearable agony echoed across the divinend of the Celestial Court.

    In the winding streets of the Heavenly Pce, the imperial cultivators witnessed Naraka''s forces consuming the heavens and earth. The savagery of these demons and devils was unmatched, leaving decapitated heads and rivers of blood in their wake, which only amplified the despair of the humans.

    The sky, the earth, the courts, the gardens¡ªall once ces of refined elegance¡ªwere now bloody battlegrounds littered with severed limbs and fallen celestial artifacts, magic treasures, and True Immortal Jades.

    Screams of agony, cries of despair, and roars of rage rose and fell in a terrible symphony.

    The fearsome Great Mother, having devoured the Heaven-Reaching Constetion, had be a shadow in the hearts of all within the Constetion Army and imperial cultivators. They trembled as they watched this monstrous being continue her ughter, their faces pale with dread.

    Powerlessly, they witnessed the Nine Arcanes Constetion and Martial Peak Constetion, along with a thousand celestial warriors, attempt to encircle the Great Mother. No one could halt her advance.

    <em>RIP! CRUNCH! </em>Even though the Nine Arcanes Constetion and Martial Peak Constetion fought bravely, the two could not escape their fate, torn into pieces and devoured by the Great Mother.The Three Great Constetions, leading the charge, all fell in battle!

    Their violent deaths seemed only to scratch the surface of the Great Mother.

    After annihting the Three Great Constetions, she transformed back into a mountain of blood and flesh, moving across the divinend.

    She even gathered the faces of the fallen Three Great Constetions in front of her body, their mouths emitting a sickly yellow mist as they screamed, their eyes fixed in the direction of the Taiwei Imperial Pce, as she lumbered toward it with a thunderous rumble.

    "Crown Prince! Hehe! Hehehe! Crown Prince..."

    The faces of the Three Great Constetions disyed a deep, unsettling hatred.

    In death, their visages were even more twisted than in life.

    "Corpse demon, corpse demon...!"

    Seeing the Three Great Constetions dead, the leaderless Constetion Army''s moralepletely shattered.

    Under the relentless assault of Naraka''s forces, their lines brokepletely, the ferocious demons and devils grinding them into the ground, plowing bloody trails toward the Imperial Pce.

    Fear, destion, helplessness, and sorrow marked the faces of every imperial family member.

    Countless warriors of the Constetion Army died in front of their own homes, their bodies torn to shreds and devoured, leaving not even a whole corpse to bury.

    Families torn apart, entire lineages ughtered¡ªit was amon sight.

    In a corner of this hellish scene, a youth in white stood under the eaves, silently observing the chaos.

    Beside him stood a girl in a maid outfit, about 13 years old with twin ponytails. Her eyes, slightly pale, watched the rampaging Great Mother intently.

    "So many people are dying. Doesn''t it stir something within you?" Pale Revenant asked in a soft whisper.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze remained undisturbed, his head shaking subtly as he spoke, "Each person is distinct, and those here hold the loftiest resources and sway in the world. Yet, they contributed nothing to our people and instead cast their own kin into the abyss. What befalls them today is the retribution they rightly deserve. I do possess empathy, but I reserve it¡ªnot for them."

    "Oh," Pale Revenant murmured, a human at heart herself, pained as she watched people devoured alive by demons and devils.

    "Bloodlines and n ties offer no excuse to transgress moral boundaries. Their existence is a greater evil for many. Without a clean te, there''s no rebuilding, and the cycle of suffering will never end," Yun Xiao continued.

    "I understand," Pale Revenant nodded, absorbing his words.

    Turning, Yun Xiao patted her head, adding, "Moreover, considering the current factions at y¡ªLu Fan, the Celestial Court''s imperial family, and the forces of Naraka¡ªthe imperial family harbors the darkest intent and poses the greatest threat to us. Their greater suffering can only benefit our path ahead."

    Pale Revenant understood then. Although the Great Mother seemed formidable, Yun Xiao hardly feared her. The Celestial Demon Abyss, stripped down, was essentially under the rule of just one, the Great Mother.

    The Celestial Court seemed in dire straits, but for Yun Xiao, it still wasn''t enough. The worse this battle went for them, the better for his ns. Ideally, the Great Mother would seize control of the entire Heavenly Pce.

    "Let''s not dwell on this, there are opportunities to be found in the aftermath," Yun Xiao whispered to her.

    "Mhm."

    Together, the young master and maid blended into the battlefield¡ªtwo fleeting shadows amid the chaos.

    To the raucous, brutal, fiercely contested battlefield, they were just another silent part of the carnage.

    The battle between the imperial family and Naraka''s forces raged on!

    The demons and devils, like meat grinders, mowed a path of blood and gore towards the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    The entirendscape of the Celestial Court was now engulfed in a mist of blood.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Nearly all of Naraka''s forces had breached the Sacred Emperor Barrier, roaring ferociously as they surged toward thest defenses near the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    Blood mist, blood oceans, and decay swept across the world.

    The Taiwei Imperial Pce, once a symbol of supreme sanctity, now steamed like a cauldron atop a pile of corpses, white smoke wafting up, marking thest vestige of dignity of the Heavenly Pce.

    Inside, the highest ranks of the imperial family¡ªfigures like Empress Zhao and the Crown Princess¡ªwere all sequestered within.

    "Crown Prince! Crown Prince!"

    The Dragon Tiger Sovereign, drenched in blood, strode in and knelt before the pallid-faced Crown Prince, his voice resonant with urgency. "The Great Mother draws near the Taiwei Imperial Pce! We urgently need someone to hold her back! Please, lead us! Maximize the strength of our Rank 2 and above officials to strike down the Great Mother, to turn the tide of this disaster!"

    The Crown Prince sat rigidly, his powder-covered face having turned ashen.

    "If we don''t capture the Great Mother, the Taiwei Imperial Pce will fall, endangering the foundations of countless imperial family members!" the Dragon Tiger Sovereign added with a trembling reminder.

    "A fight with our backs against the wall, there is no other way!"

    "Please, Your Highness, turn the tide of this catastrophe!"

    As the other Rank 2 and above officials witnessed the sinister aura of the Great Mother seeping into the Taiwei Imperial Pce, their faces turned pale.

    They knew they had to break out, requiring a strong leader to prevent their ranks from being scattered!

    If these top celestial officials chose to flee in all directions, the Celestial Court would truly be doomed...

    "Your Highness!"

    None had expected that, even in such dire straits, the Crown Prince remained motionless.

    What was he contemting? Fight or flight? If he chose to flee now, he could surely survive, keeping the proverbial <em>green hills</em> intact¡ªthere would always be wood to burn.

    But, the Heavenly Pce would surely fall even faster!

    All the celestial officials stared at the Crown Prince with bloodshot eyes, everyone knew he was far older than even Empress Zhao. His handsome facade was just that¡ªa facade maintained by the incense offerings, hiding the fact he was an ancient being, second only to the White Emperor.

    "Your Highness, the Celestial Court faces a moment of life and death. Please, lead us in a fight with our backs against the wall," Empress Zhao said from the side, her voice grave.

    "Silence! It''s not your ce to speak, woman!" the Crown Prince''s face twisted grotesquely as he roared, the white powder on his face beginning to ke off.

    Empress Zhao shook her head and said no more.

    Afterwards, an absolute silence fell over the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    Outside, the cruelughter of the Great Mother and the savage rampage of Naraka''s forces grew louder, already resounding just outside the pce.

    With a swoosh, the Northstar Sword Devil stood up and silently made his way outside.

    Many followed him. These celestial officials, fully aware of the danger ahead, werepelled by a desire not to let humanity lose.

    "Stop!" The Crown Prince suddenly stood, his gaze icy as he scanned the Northstar Sword Devil. "The Great Mother is powerful, and to confront her now is to court death. All of you, follow me! We''ll retreat to the Western Kunlun Pce near the Immortal Asylum and regroup with my father to concentrate our forces and crush the Great Mother!"

    The resignation and disappointment in the eyes of the celestial officials were evident. His words, while seemingly rational, effectively meant ceding much of the Heavenly Pce to the Great Mother, delivering countless kin to her as an evening feast.

    inly speaking, the Crown Prince''s <em>tactical </em>retreat was so excessive it bordered on cowardice, eliciting disdain.

    Never before had anyone dared to scorn His Highness, but today, his <em>rationality</em> effectively abandoned the Celestial Court''s ancestral ethos of bold, trailzing leadership for the sake of humanity!

    From the moment incense offerings were first burnt, as generations of Emperors became obsessed with eternal life, backbone, dignity, moral ground, and pride had been discarded entirely.

    At this moment, within the Taiwei Imperial Pce, hearts were torn more fiercely than ever.

    Faces like those of the Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign were etched with conflict.

    Yet, in the end, their steps halted, and they dutifully gathered around the Crown Prince, supporting his resolution.

    Perhaps this was because the celestial officials present had inherited the <emmendable</em> tradition of receiving incense offerings, stepping onto a path of self-doubt and spiritual copse. From the day they entered this maelstrom, their will to bravely face death had been thoroughly corroded.

    And only such <em>logic</em> and <em>reason</em> would dictate their actions in this existential crisis!

    These celestial officials, with twisted faces and struggling gazes, battled internally between fight and flight, their hearts steeped in incense smoke, now brittle and fragile.

    Even with the cover-up, how could these celestial officials be unaware?

    The Great Mother was born from the incense offerings!

    She was the resentment of countless aggrieved mortals who came to im lives!

    This notion of karmic retribution tore at their hearts like no other weapon could, deeply frightening those burdened with grave sins and inner turmoil!

    Inside the Taiwei Imperial Pce, hearts flickered like candles in a storm. At this moment, resembling the old, young, and infirm, each of these apex Immortals were shaking and gasping for breath.

    The shadow of the Great Mother now eclipsed the entire Taiwei Imperial Pce. Her putrid stench and echoingughter prated the pce like talons, repeatedly wing at the hearts of the celestial officials, sending shivers down their spines.

    At this moment of profound despair, a thunderp of joy exploded outside the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    "Atst, the Emperor arrives!"

    "The White Emperor descends, the Taiwei Imperial Pce is secured, demons and devils, meet your demise swiftly!"

    "The Constetion Army, regroup, counterattack!"

    These stirring cries ignited the Taiwei Imperial Pce like a fierce ze, instantly turning the dim court into broad daylight...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 706: Three White Tigers!

    Chapter 706: Three White Tigers!

    Rain pattered down, heavy as the blood of corpses, upon the divinend of the Celestial Court, transforming the once splendid pces into a foul ocean stained with death. The air was thick with the cries of tormented spirits, making this world resemble a graveyard of despair.

    The Great Mother had fled amidst the chaos of battle, leaving behind a lone corpse demon in the swirling vortex of death. This corpse demon was different¡ªborn from a solitary human corpse deep in the ocean, evolved from a singr, intact grudge. She possessed a higher intelligence, a unified will, and an uncanny ability to conceal herself.

    Yun Xiao had given her free rein to devour everything left by the Great Mother and spawned anew by the battlefield. And she did just as Yun Xiaomanded.

    "It''s too much¡­" she murmured as she drifted through the sea of blood and corpses. At first overwhelmed, her appetite grew with time, allowing her to gorge with increasing ease.

    Invisible to most, this deep-sea corpse demon quietly became a nightmare between heaven and earth on this battlefield of blood and bone. Few demons, devils, or Immortals everid eyes on her, and those who did were swiftly devoured, treated as just <em>fresher</em> food.

    Her form expanded, yet her aura of death and resentment remained curiously subdued. An <em>untainted</em> corpse demon of her kind was unheard of in history. Others might wallow in filth; she was like the clear depths of the ocean, shimmering with light.

    "Until he says stop, I will continue," she resolved, blending into the carnage, first consuming a third of the Great Mother''s essence, then sweeping through the entire Heavenly Pce, sparing no fallen warrior.

    The high ranking demons and devils had fled, the Constetion Army was in hot pursuit, and the celestial officials and powerful imperial family members remained in the Taiwei Imperial Pce, oblivious to the fact that their hard-won victory was birthing a formidable new foe.

    "Emperor Taiwei of the White¡­"In a secluded corner outside the Taiwei Imperial Pce, a pair of cold eyes belonged to Yun Xiao himself, fixated on the grand structure. Simultaneously, he extracted a <em>flesh orb</em> from his robe, which on the ground, morphed into a silver-haired, fox-eared youth.

    Stretching his limbs, the youth''s body let a crackle and pop, then left Yun Xiao to follow the path the Great Mother had taken. No words were exchanged between them. After all, why would he converse with his own body double as if he were a separate entity?

    In this desperate hour for power, Yun Xiao sent his body double to chase the Great Mother, a move that hinted at priorities of greater importance.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Without the Divine Destion Physique, his immediatebat capabilities indeed suffered a qualitative decline.

    "We were close to crushing the imperial family with the power of the Great Mother, but I never anticipated that the White Emperor would resort to using the Immortal Asylum..." Yun Xiao muttered.

    This development was outside of his expectations.

    Fortunately, in this battle, the Great Mother, Naraka, and Constetion Army all sustained severe losses, over seventy percent, a devastating blow.

    "How is the White Emperor now?" Yun Xiao wondered. The scene of the Great Mother being bisected was etched deeply in his mind.

    Yun Xiao was not particrly fearful of the White Emperor, but the Immortal Asylum, a divine artifact shrouded in uncertainty, did give him pause.

    "Looking at the current situation, once the White Emperor recovers, he''ll surely head straight for the Thunder Department to deal with me."

    The situation was still critical! Had it not been for the Immortal Asylum, Yun Xiao would have likely intervened in the life and death battle between the Great Mother and White Emperor.

    But now, uncertainty had magnified.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Just then, a crimson shield suddenly erected itself outside the Taiwei Imperial Pce, forming a sanguine barrier that protected it. The shield, pulsing like the heart of some creature, throbbed with surges of bloody light.

    "What''s this now?"

    A cool, clear female voice suddenly spoke from behind Yun Xiao. Turning, he saw a girl in a pristine white dress standing behind him, a small white tiger on each shoulder and one in her arms¡ªso small, they resembled three little kittens.

    These three white tigers were likely the two Primordial Doom Stars and Primordial Pagoda.

    Another one of her treasures, the Primordial Bell, was on Yun Xiao himself.

    Her presence brought him a semnce of peace.

    "It appears to be a kind of celestial formation, but from its properties, it doesn''t seem to be one of the Celestial Court''s. It¡¯s more likely rted to the Immortal Asylum," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "After defeating the Great Mother, they didn''t pursue her but instead hid inside the Taiwei Imperial Pce, raising a defensive barrier. This suggests that the situation for the White Emperor is far from good," Divine Dawn observed with piercing eyes.

    She looked at Yun Xiao, adding, "This could be our best opportunity to act."

    Yun Xiao thought for a moment, then shook his head. "It''s only a possibility. The exact condition of the White Emperor is still unclear."

    And he had already sent Moon Fairy far away.

    "If you won''t make a move, I will," Divine Dawn dered, having made up her mind.

    "Then try," Yun Xiao replied, not wanting to sway her resolve.

    As his words fell, the girl in the white dress had vanished from sight. The next moment, she appeared high above the Taiwei Imperial Pce, her sudden arrival drawing gasps of rm.

    With a mighty swing, she hurled the twin Primordial Doom Stars, which, like twin suns aze with thunder and mes, descended from the sky and smashed against the crimson barrier!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! </em>The stars rebounded high into the air after two deafening impacts, shaking the crimson barrier violently. Yet, instead of breaking, the shield thickened, its sanguine light intensifying and enveloping the Taiwei Imperial Pce in a cocoon of blood.

    Divine Dawn bit her lip and unleashed her full arsenal in a flurry of strikes, but each assault only fortified the barrier further.

    Finally, she retreated to Yun Xiao''s side, clearly frustrated. "I hit it with everything I had, and no one even came out. It only proves how weak the White Emperor is right now."

    "Indeed." Yun Xiao couldn''t deny this and nodded in agreement.

    "Why don¡¯t you give it a try?" Divine Dawn challenged, ring at him.

    "You''re stronger than I am, and if you couldn''t break it, I definitely won¡¯t be able to," Yun Xiao reasoned.

    "What do we do then? Once he recovers, the trouble will be much greater," Divine Dawn said, her impatience ring.

    "Rushing won¡¯t help. Let¡¯s stay calm and think of a n," Yun Xiao soothed.

    Seeing his serene demeanor, Divine Dawn felt a surge of irritation. She stepped forward, shing her tiny tiger teeth and gripping his garment, "They have no limits. Right now, with Lu Fan and the Great Mother posing no threat, they''ll resort to despicable tactics once they target us. Our only chance is to seize the moment and eliminate them, to spare both the Great Dao Celestial Realm and mortal realm from further tragedy."

    "I know," Yun Xiao responded, taking her hand gently. "But being anxious won¡¯t help."

    "What are you thinking then?" her voice softened, a mix of hurt in her tone and tears welling in her eyes.

    "Since we can''t break through this shield, our only option is to strengthen ourselves before the decisive battle," Yun Xiao exined.

    Whether it was allowing Pale Revenant to sweep the battlefield or sending Moon Fairy back to the Celestial Demon Abyss, it all served this purpose.

    "I''ve hardly any room to maneuver for now, unless..." Divine Dawn cast a sidelong nce at Yun Xiao.

    She recalled the first and second times she had contributed to Yun Xiao. Now, the third time was upon them¡ªit was time to drain him!

    "Unless what?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "Nothing!" Divine Dawn huffed, shooting him a look.

    "Why do I find your mood so changeable? One moment calm, the next frantic, and then pitiable?" Yun Xiao mused.

    "Isn''t it because you''ve carved open my heart?" the girl in the white dress said, her eyes brimming with tears.

    No sooner had she spoken than she shook her head vigorously and red fiercely at Yun Xiao. "Enough with your familiarity; I don''t know you," she snapped.

    She pushed Yun Xiao away and then turned back to him, her eyes smoldering with passion, giving him a look that reminded him of when she was the Divine Dawn Empress, watching him from her throne.

    One body, three personalities, seamlessly shifting, it genuinely left Yun Xiao stunned.

    "Are you alright?" Yun Xiao asked, concerned.

    "It''s all your fault," she sobbed.

    "There, there, no need to cry," Yun Xiao hurried to console her.

    "Scoundrel, don''t touch me!" She pped away his arms, nearly fracturing them.

    "Uh¡­?" Yun Xiao was baffled.

    "Let''s focus on stopping the imperial family from holding the mortal realm hostage," she said, her gazeden with worry.

    This was a more rational statement; Yun Xiao recognized that she was now Chen Xi.

    Although she hailed from the bottom of the rung, her vision was broader than that of the tempestuous Seventh Princess and the tender Lian Xi.

    "The mortal realm..." Speaking of which, Yun Xiao said, "I''ve encountered an entity that can help us with this."

    "Who?" Divine Dawn asked eagerly.

    "It''s here."

    As Yun Xiao looked towards Divine Dawn, an old man, stooped and thin, suddenly appeared amid the blood-red mists.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    <strong>Divine Dawn after another 700 chapters...</strong>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 705: White Emperors Divine Might!

    Chapter 705: White Emperor''s Divine Might!

    The Crown Prince, his face once pale and dim with foreboding shadows, suddenly lit up. In an instant, he shone with radiant glory as a fire ignited within his heart. With a roar that shook the heavens, hemanded, ¡°All Heavenly Officers, follow me into battle, protect the White Emperor!¡±

    With a thunderous boom, the conflicted hearts of the celestial officials were straightened by the White Emperor''s. The warriors like the Northstar Sword Devil could no longer contain themselves; they roared in unison, rushing out of the Taiwei Imperial Pce, their fervor matching the Crown Prince¡¯s brilliance.

    Thousands of elite celestial officials stormed out. They were greeted by the sight of a mountainous river of flesh and blood teeming with countless demons and devils. These invaders were so numerous they seemed to blot out the heaven and earth, suffocating the Heavenly Pce with their oppressive presence.

    But the shocksted only a moment.

    For above this ghastly mountain of flesh and blood shone a dazzling light, the brightest focal point on the battlefield, like a Celestial Sourcecore. It pierced the bloody mist, illuminating the Heavenly Pce anew.

    ¡°White Emperor!¡± the cries echoed, a testament to the imperial family¡¯s supreme reverence for Emperor Taiwei of the White.

    ¡°Father...!¡± The Crown Prince¡¯s eyes widened as he saw that in the heavens, within the radiant light, the true visage of his father emerged.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± It wasn''t just the Crown Prince; all present saw that the White Emperor was unlike before.

    Firstly, his aura was different!Where the White Emperor was once a synonym for sanctity, nobility, and splendor, an embodiment of light, now he seemed even more awe-inspiring yet tinged with a brutal, angry, and tyrannical bloody aura.

    Upon closer inspection, they were shocked to see the old man in the sky; his white hair had turned to crimson, his ck pupils to bloody orbs, his entire being enveloped in a terrifying aura, with sanguine patterns writhing like serpents around his body.

    Most striking was the staff he held; it was a ck rod that now seemed soaked in blood pouring from the heavens, releasing a formidable aura.

    ¡°Immortal Asylum! That''s the Immortal Asylum!¡± The Crown Prince¡¯s exhrated voice boomed like thunder, resonating far and wide.

    ¡°The White Emperor has conquered the Immortal Asylum!¡±

    ¡°The White Emperor now wields the Immortal Asylum!¡±

    For the entire imperial family, this was monumental news, enough to drive them to revelry in their most desperate hour.

    ¡°Destroy the Great Mother!¡±

    With a vengeance as deep as the sky was high, they awaited the White Emperor¡¯s revenge, their hearts now spurred by the same brutality and ferocity, no longer fearful, their faces as fierce as any demon or devil!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The White Emperor, with his crimson hair and eyes, his aura eerie and powerful, did not disappoint them.

    Shortly after appearing, he grasped the blood-stained Immortal Asylum with both hands, his expression cold, descending from the heavens.

    With a thunderous roar, the Immortal Asylum extended hundreds of feet in the blink of an eye, transforming into a crimson pir that smashed down upon the Great Mother.

    The Great Mother had long been aware of the Immortal Asylum! This was the sole w in her n today. Despite her urgency, she never imagined that the White Emperor could conquer the Immortal Asylum in such a brief span.

    Her rage shook the entire Heavenly Pce, her roar reverberating across the divinend. She gathered all her might to block the towering crimson pir.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The pir, like a mighty celestial cleaver, crashed down. When it struck the mountain of flesh and blood, it split it as effortlessly as cleaving tofu, exploding into a sky full of gore that sttered across the heavens and earth!

    In that moment of explosive devastation, the Great Mother screamed¡ªa piercing cry that resonated across the battlefield, causing countless demons and devils to cover their ears, their hearts trembling deeply.

    They witnessed the Great Mother smashed into two parts¡ªone significantlyrger than the other, roughly split seven to three.

    Such a horrific and violent spectacle shook everyone present, and her scream pierced their hearts.

    The blood of the Great Mother scattered across half the Heavenly Pce.

    The sight stunned many demons and devils. After all, the shadow the Great Mother had cast over all the inhabitants of Naraka had been immense. Who could have imagined that the White Emperor, wielding the Immortal Asylum, could split her in two with a single strike!

    ¡°Divine power! Divine power!¡± The Crown Prince, witnessing this scene, could no longer contain himself. His face turned crimson as he bellowed in a frenzy.

    All the celestial officials, invigorated, joined his deafening roar.

    All the repression of today was released in that one strike.

    ¡°The divine might of the White Emperor, annihting the Great Mother!¡±

    ¡°Kill! Kill!!¡±

    Their roars echoed across the Heavenly Pce, shaking the divinend.

    In this desperate moment, therger portion of the flesh mountain reacted swiftly, transforming into a pale woman of eight feet tall!

    The smaller mass exploded into gore, rushing towards the crimson-haired White Emperor.

    ¡°It''s not over! Not over yet!¡± the towering woman screamed, turning and fleeing into the crowd of demons and devils, vanishing in an instant, and making her escape.

    With a ssh, as she vanished, the smaller mass of flesh and blood, under the ferocious assault of the blood-colored Immortal Asylum, erupted into a rain of gore that burst open across the Heavenly Pce, effectively rendering that area lifeless.

    The entire Celestial Court was engulfed by blood and the stench of decaying flesh.

    ¡°She¡¯s not dead yet, pursue her!¡± the Crown Prince shouted, his voice ringing out as he craned his neck.

    The Great Mother had fled! Naturally, all the imperial family members wanted to seize this chance to destroy her, but they were clueless about where she had escaped to.

    The White Emperor nced in the direction she had disappeared.

    With a sh of blood light which disoriented many, it appeared even the Devil Eye had made its escape in time.

    The White Emperor, with his eyes a cold abyss, showed no intent to pursue. Instead, in a voice as deep as the ocean, hemanded, ¡°Clear the battlefield, drive out the demons and devils.¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    The celestial officials, Constetion Army, and 18 Department Legions, no matter how grievous their losses, now rose. Under the White Emperor¡¯smand, they turned on the remaining demons and devils.

    With both the Great Mother and Devil Eye gone, what fight could the remaining demons and devils muster?

    Buzzing with the fervor of battle, Naraka''s forces turned tail and fled in panic, following in the direction the Great Mother had taken.

    At this moment, the roles of hunter and hunted reversed.

    Without the Great Mother and the Devil Eye the severely weakened Constetion Army found itself, for a moment, on the stronger side, mercilessly pursuing the fleeing demons and devils!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Of course, their advantage was not as great as the demons and devils had been before. This pursuit unto death left both sides racking up casualties, with more bodies falling.

    Even so, the imperial family finally saw a chance for vengeance!

    The entire Heavenly Pce was still a battlefield soaked in blood.

    In that moment, the White Emperor, holding the blood-stained Immortal Asylum, descended from the heavens, his crimson hair fluttering as hended before the pce.

    ¡°Your Majesty!¡±

    The Crown Prince, Empress Zhao, and all the celestial officials, filled with reverence, prostrated themselves on the ground, their eyes casting sidelong nces at the Immortal Asylum, deeply awed.

    ¡°Rise.¡±

    The voice of the White Emperor was deep and hoarse, his face expressionless, whichmanded even greater respect.

    ¡°Father, why not pursue them to the end andpletely eradicate the scourge of the Celestial Demon Abyss?¡± the Crown Prince asked excitedly.

    The White Emperor nced at him but remained silent.

    ¡°True! The Great Mother is adept at preserving her life, pursuing her might not be fruitful! Luckily, she only has the Celestial Demon Abyss as herir. She''s been gravely injured today; there will be other chances to end her,¡± the Crown Prince said with a forced smile, trying to ease the tension.

    ¡°How did the battle between Lu Fan and Yun Xiao turn out?¡± the White Emperor suddenly asked.

    The Crown Prince''s smile reappeared. ¡°The oue brings joy, coupled with your control of the Immortal Asylum today, we have double cause for celebration.¡±

    ¡°You see the Heavenly Pce turned into a hellish battlefield, and call this a joyous asion?¡± The White Emperor coldly swept his gaze over him.

    The Crown Prince shivered, realizing his pride had carried him away, and quickly bowed his head. ¡°Lu Fan was defeated by Yun Xiao. The Great Dao Celestial Army and Free Immortals have all sworn allegiance to Yun Xiao and the imposter. They''re now gathered at the Thunder Department, preparing to rebel.¡±

    He mentioned this as a joy not because Yun Xiao was weak, but because both the young man and Divine Dawn had fatal weaknesses.

    ¡°The Great Mother has been weakened, Lu Fan barely survives, and the Celestial Court has endured this cmity. Next, we must dedicate ny percent of our efforts tobat Yun Xiao and my <em>daughter</em>,¡± the White Emperor dered with a steely gaze.

    ¡°Yes, Father, let us reorganize and then we can deploy troops to attack the Thunder Department immediately, while also arranging our forces across the mortal stars...¡±

    The Crown Prince was speaking of these ruthless ns when suddenly, the White Emperor copsed stiffly to the ground, his hand releasing the Immortal Asylum.

    In an instant, he fell unconscious, appearing much older, his hair and eyes returning to their natural color.

    ¡°Uh¡­¡±

    The assembled celestial officials were speechless at this scene.

    ¡°Your Highness, shall we still march on the Thunder Department immediately?¡± Empress Zhao asked.

    The Crown Prince quickly knelt down, lifting the White Emperor, and gritted his teeth. ¡°Prepare the celestial elixirs first. His Majesty''s recoveryes before anything else!¡±

 Chapter 707: Fox and Great Mother

    Chapter 707: Fox and Great Mother

    The old man was a peculiar sight, draped in a wide conical hat which hid his features except for a single dark red eye¡ªhis face devoid of mouth, nose, or ears.

    "Celestial Devil Abyss, the Devil Eye," Yun Xiao introduced to Divine Dawn.

    "And what can he do?" Divine Dawn scoffed, clearly unimpressed by the Devil Eye, yet murmured to herself as if reconsidering, "It dares to show itself now; it must be lucid and useful."

    This moment was like a sh within her own psyche.

    As she wrestled with her multiple personalities, Yun Xiao beckoned the Devil Eye closer, saying, "Repeat to her what you just told me."

    The one-eyed elder bowed slightly, his voice earnest, "I greet the Seventh Princess."

    "Cut the nonsense!" Divine Dawnmanded sternly.

    "Yes..." The Devil Eye pointed to its singr eye and exined, "This lone eye of mine is all I have. It sees deeply, sees far, glimpsing things beyond the ordinary reach."

    "Can you discern her true nature?" Yun Xiao interjected.The Devil Eye pursed its lips and extended three fingers towards Yun Xiao, hesitant to say more.

    "Do you mean to say you can see into the mortal realm?" Divine Dawn ignored the <em>three</em> and pursued the heart of the matter.

    From her cautious expression, the one who answered was the girl Yun Xiao knew best.

    The Devil Eye nodded vigorously. "I can see the emissaries of the imperial family, and which mortal stars they''re stationed at."

    Divine Dawn paused, amazed. "Wow, how is that possible? Your sight reaches too far! Old man, what is your eye made of?"

    The Devil Eye chuckled modestly. "Merely a trivial skill, hardly worth mentioning."

    Hisughter stemmed from his amusement at Divine Dawn''s rapidly changing moods, quite an entertaining spectacle.

    "If you dare lie, you''re a dead man." Divine Dawn''s wonder quickly turned to a threatening scowl.

    "I would not dare." The Devil Eye quickly bowed in assurance.

    "Devil Eye," Yun Xiao called out, then seriously tasked him, "Now that we''ve discussed this, I entrust you with a mission. Take your people and swiftly purge these imperial traces from the mortal realm. Bring their heads to me. Aplish this, and you will be forever safe."

    The Devil Eye, invigorated by the promise, vowed, "I assure you, the task will be done!"

    "Remember, do not harm the civilians," Divine Dawn cautioned.

    "By yourmand." The Devil Eye nodded.

    "Go and make it so," Yun Xiao dismissed him.

    "As you wish."

    With a bow, the Devil Eye vanished into the swirling dark mists, disappearing from sight.

    "Why do you trust him? He''s a formidable foe from Naraka," Divine Dawn questioned.

    "Because the moment he first saw me, he knew to fear me," Yun Xiao answered.

    "You''re still so confident," Divine Dawn remarked with a hint of mncholy.

    "Missing home?" Yun Xiao suddenly took her hand, his longing stirring within him.

    Divine Dawn paused, then shook off his hand, her voice cool, "I merely slept for a while; how many women have you found in the meantime?"

    "Truly, there are none. You misunderstand me," Yun Xiao replied.

    "And this body¡ªhow do you exin waking up no longer <em>pure</em>? Dare you say it wasn''t your doing?" Divine Dawn challenged.

    "You''re all the same person; why make such distinctions?" Yun Xiao said.

    "No, we''re not." Divine Dawn shook her head, sighing softly. "You don''t understand, we''re not the same."

    "How can you not be..."

    Before Yun Xiao could finish, tears threatened to fall as she confronted him. "Yun Xiao, how could you bear to stab me?"

    Yun Xiao coughed awkwardly, at a loss for words.

    "The third time will be you flipping the tables on me, right? Well, in this life, I shall not entangle with you anymore," Divine Dawn suddenly dered.

    "Don''t." Yun Xiao reached for her hand again.

    "What are you doing? Stay away, you rogue!" she snapped, anger boiling over.

    Yun Xiao watched her decisively walk away, his heart silently aching with unspeakable sorrow.

    "Let it be, adjust slowly."

    The situation now wasplex:

    The Seventh Princess didn''t recognize him, treating him as a rogue.

    Lian Xi loved and depended on him, yet felt wronged, angry, and unforgiving.

    Chen Xi was the mostplicated. She knew all Yun Xiao had done for her, but the memory of their third encounter was a painful one for her, leaving her with a conflicted mix of love and resentment towards him.

    "Let''s solve the immediate problems first, then worry about romantic entanglements." Yun Xiao turned away, looking toward the sanguine dome over the Great Celestial Pce.

    "If the disaster in the mortal realm can be resolved, then only our direct confrontation with the imperial family remains..."

    Divine Dawn had not left; she too was nearby, seeking ast-minute chance to boost her strength.

    "I need to find a way to trigger the tribtion!"

    Setting aside other thoughts, Yun Xiao''s expression grew stern as he entered a state of breakthrough.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the deste reaches of the Celestial Demon Abyss, Moon Fairy glided forth through the barrennds.

    Ahead of him, the earth itself trembled as a mountain of flesh and blood, still oozing, roared with fury. All along the path, demons became fodder for its insatiable hunger.

    She was like a person whose belly had been torn open, madly devouring while the food spilled out from her guts.

    "The corpse demon is usually formless, to appear in this state, it can only mean that the Immortal Asylum has truly wounded her at her core," Moon Fairy muttered to himself.

    Why else would corpses be falling out of her stomach?

    Under normal circumstances, even split in half, she could immediately coalesce anew.

    Following closely, Moon Fairy could see clearly¡ªa gaping wound on the Great Mother¡¯s body, like a bloody centipede, continuously tearing at her flesh, causing her immense pain.

    If she ceased to feed, her body would shrink. For the corpse demon, this was agony enough to be fatal.

    "She''s miserable enough, she shouldn''t bother with me now."

    With this conclusion, Moon Fairy wasted no further words and set off toward the Divine Destion Sea¡ªhis true objective on this journey.

    Thest time, he hadn¡¯t absorbed much destion before the Great Mother had consumed him, leaving Yun Xiao still longing for the Divine Destion Sea.

    Now, with the Great Mother grievously injured, he decisively chose to send his body double back. Otherwise, staying in the Celestial Court, Moon Fairy saw little chance for short-term advancement.

    Yun Xiao trusted in his own destiny more than <em>convenient</em> opportunities. As long as he grew strong enough, wouldn''t the chance to destroy the White Emperor always be there?

    With a hum, Moon Fairy transformed into a six-tailed silver fox, swift as a sh of silver light, darting into the Divine Destion Sea.

    The <em>water</em> rushed around him, unrestricted and unrestrained, this time he relished in the unbounded freedom.

    Vast amounts of destion surged into his body.

    The elements of wind, fire, water, and earth¡ªat the Dao and Divine Heaven grade¡ªflooded into his fleshly body, tempered by the Will of Divine Destion, rendering his physique ever more formidable.

    Thunderous echoes reverberated as Moon Fairy overcame the Wood Spirit Thunder and Gold Origin Thunder, effortlessly, advancing to the Establishment Anima Tribtion Realm.

    The entire Divine Destion Sea was his to churn, an ocean without a master, and he stirred it into upheaval.

    "Sly fox!"

    Suddenly, a harsh, vicious, eerie growl echoed from above.

    After oveing the Gold Origin Thunder, Moon Fairy, now in a humanoid form with fox ears and tail, burst forth from the Divine Destion Sea.

    Before his modest five-and-a-half foot stature, an eight-foot-tall woman appeared, her long hair cascading like a waterfall, her skin pale as paper, with a blood-red centipede writhing across her abdomen.

    "Can you rid me of this?" the Great Mother asked, her voice chilling.

    Moon Fairy nced at her and shook his head. "I cannot."

    "Then you are useless to me!" the Great Mother hissed, ring at him.

    "You cannot harm me anymore." Moon Fairy, uninterested in further discourse, turned back toward the Divine Destion Sea.

    "Wait!" The Great Mother blocked his path, her voice ferocious, "Your friend, he has that Life Sigil, he can surely help me."

    "And why would he help you?" Moon Fairy''s voice was a quiet murmur.

    "I can aid him! Kill the White Emperor! Destroy the imperial family!" the Great Mother pleaded urgently.

    "And what if, once healed, you decide to seize his Life Sigil?" Moon Fairy questioned.

    The Great Mother''s mind was far more deranged than the ethereal quiet of Pale Revenant.

    "I won''t! I won''t! I''ll behave," the Great Mother insisted desperately, her hollow eyes brimming with tears.

    "Alright, wait here," Moon Fairy waved dismissively, "Once I''m done, I''ll take you to him."

    "Hurry, I can''t hold on much longer," the Great Mother said pitifully.

    "Stay put and behave!"

    With a stern nce, Moon Fairy dived back into the Divine Destion Sea.

    Meanwhile, the Great Mother could only sit tensely on the side of a mountain, waiting anxiously.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 708: Spirit Gates of Life and Death!

    Chapter 708: Spirit Gates of Life and Death!

    Yun Xiao''s cultivation path was somewhat special. He practiced three systems¡ªPrimordial Void, Divine Destion, and Mortal Dust¡ªall at once, each having reached a critical juncture simultaneously.

    Meanwhile, Moon Fairy, the host of the Will of Divine Destion, was far away in the Celestial Demon Abyss.

    "My own Primordial Void still awaits the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion, while the Mortal Dust Devil Blood and Divine Destion Physique have both passed through it. It''s time to progress further," he mused.

    So far, Yun Xiao had experienced the first six realms in the Third Dao Tribtion¡ªSpirit Projection, Essence Manifestation, Divine Self, Celestial Expanse, Golden Immortal, and Anima Tribtion!

    Beyond these six foundational stepsy thest two realms of the Third Dao Tribtion, the level where the peak Immortals of the Celestial Court resided.

    To ascend further and rival figures such as the Nine Thunders Sovereign, Yun Xiao needed to surpass the Anima Tribtion Realm.

    Now, Moon Fairy and the War Princess had reached this threshold,rgely thanks to Yun Xiao''s enlightenment.

    Yun Xiao paused his own tribtion initiation and focused on pushing the limits of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood and Divine Destion Physique.

    "Through five tribtions, the spirit transforms, revealing two gates, transcending life and death, wandering the cosmos."This phrase spelled out thest two steps of the Third Dao Tribtion¡ªthe Spirit''s Journey.

    There were two gates, one of death, one of life!

    Crossing the Gate of Life and Death allowed the spirit to wander the ends of the cosmos.

    Exactly what this <em>cosmos</em> referred to, Yun Xiao did not yet know, for no one in the Great Dao Celestial Realm had reached it.

    But he understood that the Gates of Life and Death meant that once the spirit endured the Five Thunders Tribtion and achieved conceptualpleteness, it could, upon re-emerging, glimpse these two ethereal gates.

    First came the Spirit Gate of Death. It was said that only after passing through this first gate could one see the second gate, the Spirit Gate of Life.

    Seeing the Spirit Gate of Death and passing through marked entry into the seventh realm of the Third Dao Tribtion.

    This realm was originally called the Death Realm. But due to its ominous implications, the previous generations renamed it the Night God Realm, symbolizing a nocturnal journey through heaven and earth.

    Be it the Death Realm or Night God Realm, the name was just that¡ªa name.

    Figures like the Nine Thunders Sovereign, Northstar Sword Devil, Peni Sage, and Great Horned King were all Night Gods that stood at the pinnacle of all beings.

    At this moment, Yun Xiao aimed to break through to the Night God Realm with the Mortal Dust Devil Blood and Divine Destion Physique.

    "To understand the Gates of Life and Death, one must observe them firsthand."

    Now, both his Mortal Dust and Divine Destion spirits had passed through the five tribtions, needing only to achieve conceptualpleteness.

    The so-called <em>conceptualpleteness</em> was achieving ultimate mastery of the Anima Tribtion Realm, allowing the spirit to fully absorb the transformative power of the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion, reaching a certain breakpoint.

    For Yun Xiao, this posed no challenge.

    Within his true body, two spirits manifested.

    The Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, yet to face even the first thunder of the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion, wore an expression of confusion.

    Meanwhile, the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, akin to a child born of Yun Xiao and the War Princess, after achieving conceptualpleteness, looked up and slowly opened its eyes.

    Initially, all the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit saw was the bloody celestial mist and illusory fog in the sky.

    But soon, within this haze, a vortex dark as night slowly opened, solidifying into a massive circr gate of the heavens, nearly obscuring half the sky.

    Yet, aside from the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, not even Yun Xiao''s physical eyes could perceive this ancient gate of the night.

    This simple, unadorned gate, devoid of any embellishments, exuded a quiet yet palpable oppressive stillness.

    "This is the Spirit Gate of Death."

    It was ck as night, perhaps the reason this realm was romantically termed the Night God Realm.

    "To cross the Gate of Life and Death is to wander the ends of the cosmos."

    With that thought, Yun Xiao fell silent, focusing his mind and guiding the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit towards the dark gate above.

    Simultaneously, far away in the Celestial Demon Abyss, the Divine Destion Spirit of Moon Fairy also beheld this gate of the night.

    Both of Yun Xiao''s spirits moved towards the Gate of Death.

    As they approached, Yun Xiao suddenly felt as if he were traversing time and space, an illusory sensation as if the short distance carried the spirits through infinite nes to a ce far beyond.

    "Hmm?"

    Both spirits paused in surprise.

    As they turned, they saw each other.

    Moon Fairy and the War Princess, physically worlds apart, found their spirits meeting before the gate.

    Looking down, each spirit could only see its own physical form.

    "The world as seen by the spirit, and the real world, are not necessarily the same," Yun Xiao mused. "Perhaps, beyond this Gate of Life and Death lies a ne meant for the spirit to wander?"

    He couldn''t be sure.

    The immediate task was to push these two spirits through the Gate of Death, to enter and fortify themselves within, thus aiding their Dao Hearts to withstand more potent celestial power and elevate their cultivation to the ultimate limit.

    There was no other way to break through the Gate of Death but to charge straight into it.

    "Forward!"

    One spirit infused with the power of Divine Destion and the other with the lifeblood of the Mortal Dust Devil... The two spirits¡ªone silver and one crimson¡ªtransformed into two dense spheres of radiant light and thunderously struck the Gate of Death.

    With a resonant boom, the task was unexpectedly easy.

    The two spirits, though acting in unison, each felt a distinct sensation as they pushed open the Gate of Death.

    Thunderous echoes followed as they breached the threshold, plunging together into a new realm!

    In this space, all traces of the real world vanished abruptly, leaving only a pitch-ck fog. This dense, dark mist wielded a deathly power that eroded the spirit. Upon entering, Yun Xiao''s spirits had no choice but to calm their minds and fortify their essence with the powers of the Mortal Dust and Divine Destion, steadying themselves.

    "This fog at the Gate of Death is like a constant tribtion for the spirit," Yun Xiao realized. "It can wear down a spirit but also temper it! As long as a spirit withstands, it will continue to grow stronger."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Conversely, if one could not endure or feared the dense fog of death, then the cultivator would dare not re-enter the Gate of Death for tempering, and the spirit would fail to develop.

    "Seems this Gate of Death encloses a confined space; it''s not veryrge. My two spirits are here together, but where are the others?"

    As Yun Xiao pondered this question, his Mortal Dust Devil and Divine Destion Spirits became alert.

    Suddenly, a sh of ck sword energy tore through the foggy world, aiming directly at the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit.

    This was a spirit sword attack!

    The Mortal Dust Devil Spirit extended its hand, conjuring a blood dragon that swiftly captured the sword energy.

    "Who goes there?"

    This sensation was peculiar; Yun Xiao felt as if his body was present in this special space, capable of fighting, speaking... and possibly dying.

    Two figures emerged from the dense fog ahead. One was a ck-robed spirit, radiant with sword energy, and the other was a robust spirit, imposing with the might of a dragon and a tiger.

    "Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign?" Yun Xiao''s voice echoed coldly from the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit.

    "Who are you?" The two spirits furrowed their brows, ncing at the Mortal Dust Devil and Divine Destion Spirits. They couldn''t recognize him at all.

    Yun Xiao didn''t answer their question. Instead, a realization dawned on him. "Could it be that all who are in the Night God Realm train their spirits in this singr space? And they can battle each other too? Anima Immortals must have a significant advantage here..."

    Whether it was in spirit or physical body, death meant total annihtion. The key was that this kind of battle transcended distances!

    Moon Fairy could, from within the Celestial Demon Abyss, use his spirit to engage in life-and-death duels with these two.

    Of course¡­ there was no need for that now.

    Yun Xiao''s two spirits were not his strongest assets. His true powery in his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, which could not yet enter this ne of existence.

    He could only say that the secrets of the spirit ne were indeed intriguing, offering seemingly endless possibilities.

    "You two are not from the Great Dao Celestial Realm or Naraka. How did you enter our Gate of Death?" the Northstar Sword Devil pressed, his voice cold.

    Having spent considerable time in the Gate of Death, his spirit wasrger and more robust than the Divine Destion and Mortal Dust Devil Spirits. In a direct confrontation, Yun Xiao wouldn''t have the upper hand.

    "Just retreating should suffice, right?"

    He maneuvered his physical body to recall his spirits. The process was swift; with a few buzzing sounds, the two spirits descended from the Gate of Death and returned to their respective bodies.

    The Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign weren''t significantly stronger than his two spirits, making an instant kill impossible.

    "They just mentioned that this Gate of Death belongs to the Great Dao Celestial Realm and Naraka... So there are other Gates of and Life and Death in the world?"

    Recalling the moment he withdrew from the Gate of Death, Yun Xiao seemed to catch a fleeting glimpse of a white, circr light at its end.

    "That must be the Gate of Life. Spirits are tempered within the Gate of Death until they are strong enough to pass through the Night God Realm, reaching the Establishment Stage. They can then break through the Gate of Life and enter the final step of the Third Dao Tribtion, the Life Realm."

    The Life Realm was also idealized as the Dawn God Realm.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 709: The Grand Dao is My Dao, My Sword is Heavens Sword!

    Chapter 709: The Grand Dao is My Dao, My Sword is Heaven''s Sword!

    "No wonder they say that within the Great Dao Celestial Realm, only the White Emperor, Crown Prince, and Lu Fan have entered the Gate of Life."

    Yun Xiao''s two spirits, alongside the other Rank 1 Sovereigns, still muddled through in the Gate of Death..

    "Lu Fan is still formidable..."

    When Yun Xiao had defeated him, it wasn¡¯t through his own strength, but with the aid of an ancient bronze coffin.

    As for the Great Mother and the Devil Eye, one was a special demon with weak cultivation attributes, and the other was even more peculiar¡ªa mysterious eye. They likely weren''t within the Gate of Life either.

    "Never mind all that. With the blood base and body double having ascended to the Night God Realm, my spirit has grown much stronger and can still amass more power for battle."

    The Heavenly Pce''s battlefield offered plentiful blood to refine into Mortal Dust Devil Blood, and the Celestial Demon Abyss¡¯ Divine Destion Sea still had no end in sight.

    Only after elevating Moon Fairy and the War Princess to the Night God Realm did Yun Xiao focus on leading his true self through the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion.

    "In the spirit ne of the Gate of Death, it seems my spirit doesn¡¯t need to manifest physically to possessbat power. Will my Buddha''s Treasure Spiritter take the form of my mortal self within the Gates of Life and Death?"The Gates of Life and Death surely weren''t the final stage of cultivation. So, Yun Xiao was curious about his spirit wandering the ends of the <em>cosmos</em>.

    This made it even more necessary for his spirit to pass through the Five Thunder Spirit Tribtion.

    "The Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion is reallyte. Could it be rted to the level of my Buddha''s Treasure Spirit?"

    After absorbing so many Buddha''s Treasures and liberating so many spirits, along with absorbing An Yao''s ck Lotus Spirit Seed, the strength of Yun Xiao''s spirit had already surpassed that of the Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    How could he not have triggered the tribtion?

    "Perhaps the growth of an Anima Immortal''s spirit faces greater constraints."

    With that thought, Yun Xiao ran out of patience.

    "If that''s the case, I''ll just continue to strengthen my spirit."

    Without undergoing the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion, Yun Xiao¡¯s growth was stalled, and there was nothing he could do about it.

    "Little maid."

    At that moment, the deep-sea corpse demon was <em>tidying </em>up the battlefield of the Heavenly Pce. She knew what could be consumed and what should be left for Yun Xiao. She acted like a storage bag, able to keep everything first, including the spirits of the deceased fleeing in all directions, swallowing them one by one.

    At Yun Xiao''s call, she hurried back.

    "Spirit."

    With only a word from Yun Xiao, Pale Revenantvishly spat out the spirits of the deceased toward him.

    Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit directly manifested before her, radiating golden light immense as a pure-world Buddha,passionate at heart.

    "Heaven bears the virtue of all life, liberate them!"

    Each spirit, whether demon, devil, or Immortal, came in sheer panic, then upon touching the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, instantly calmed as if soothed, their eyes whitening, faces solemn, gradually incinerating... Their experiences, insights, and stories formed into Buddha''s Treasures, merging into the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit.

    Endlessly, more and more spirits were <em>cleansed </em>and returned back to the cycle of reincarnation. Today, the dead numbered not in the hundreds of thousands, but in the millions!

    "Be it Sword Prisons or Rune Prisons¡­ once there''s arge gap in quality, no matter how much I absorb, their effect is minimal. This applies to the destion and lifeblood of weaklings; if the quality iscking, it can''t be made up with quantity.

    "But, the Buddha''s Treasure is the consciousness of every sentient being. Even the most humble creature has its joy, anger, sorrow, and myriad thoughts. Even if theirprehension of the Great Dao is minimal, to me, it represents the torturous journey of a soul, and it''s useful¡­"

    The more numerous, the more useful.

    The growth of the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit didn¡¯t follow other systems where what worked and what didn''t could be easily seen; there seemed to be no set standard.

    But, the conflicts it brought Yun Xiao were the greatest.

    During this process of liberating spirits, Yun Xiao momentarily forgot the passage of time.

    His spirit made close contact with the demons, devils, and members of the Constetion Army, each one vtile, sinister, and maniacally deceased. Their spirits remained restless, unwilling, and angry.

    In the process of liberating them, Yun Xiao saw pure evil, its roots, but also the bravery of these people who fought for their ns and families. Humanity wasplex; the more he saw, the more he understood the human world.

    Beyond that were the demons who lived life in a daze, existing under the shadow of the Great Mother. Their lives were sometimes brutal, sometimes pitiable.

    "The world is a sea of suffering, and this is true."

    And who could change all this, make more people suffer less?

    Yun Xiao knew the world would never be utterly fair. Some lived, others died; some rejoiced, others grieved. All he could do was use his Worldly Dao Heart to secure the dignity that many deserved.

    In short, for the sake of the mortal realm, Yun Xiao would ughter the Celestial Court''s imperial family and thoroughly rectify the tradition of receiving incense offerings; he would not back down!

    "The Grand Dao is my Dao; my sword is Heaven''s sword! Since there are no true rules in the world, let me determine what is good and evil!"

    At the very least, Yun Xiao trusted himself. This wave of liberating spirits had him seeing and thinking much, and even his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit changed greatly.

    In the end, Yun Xiao himself did not know how many spirits he had liberated.

    It only stopped when Pale Revenant told him, "There are no more."

    "Alright, then you continue..." Yun Xiao took a deep breath.

    That moment, the world changed in his eyes; though still chaotic, there was a light in his gaze¡ªthe light of dawn, resolute, persistent, unshakable.

    His Buddha''s Treasure Spirit sat cross-legged atop his Dao heart, radiating golden light, profound and immense, shining with righteousness.

    Within it, all beings were reflections.

    "Rather than myself crossing the tribtion, let the tribtion cross me."

    Suddenly, his spirit manifested above his head, standing between heaven and earth.

    The spirit pointed a finger skyward.

    Above in the sky, amidst the clouds, a five-colored thundercloud formed.

    Earth Pulse Thunder, Moonwater Thunder, Volcanic Thunder, Wood Spirit Thunder, and Gold Origin Thunder¡ªall converged within it.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The five great spirit thunders continuously drew power from the heavens and earth, expanding endlessly, eventually obscuring the sun and forming a scaleparable to the Sacred Emperor Barrier, covering the entire Heavenly pce.

    The divinend of the Celestial Court became like the Thunder Department, capped with thunderclouds!

    The appearance of this five-colored thundercloud immediately shook heaven and earth.

    By now, the battle at the Heavenly Pce had ended. The demons and devils that could flee had fled; those that could not had perished, leaving only the Constetion Army and the remnants of the 18 Department Legions, now retreating toward the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    They all thought that everything was over, that the imperial family had triumphedpletely. But at this moment, the five-colored thundercloud covered the skies, appearing with a shock that terrified all!

    "Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion appearing all at once?"

    "Who is it! Who has angered the heavens to bring about such divine wrath?"

    "If this Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion were to strike all at once, even the Immortal Asylum would probably be sted to dust..."

    The Heavenly Pce was abuzz again.

    Those of the Constetion Army and the remnants of the 18 Department Legions, about 500,000 troops in total, had their faces painted in myriad colors, standing frozen in ce, struggling to breathe.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "What''s happening?"

    The Northstar Sword Devil, Dragon Tiger Sovereign, and other celestial officials hurried out from the Taiwei Imperial Pce, staring in astonishment at the unfolding scene.

    "My lords, it''s said that someone spotted Yun Xiao''s figure; he might have infiltrated the battlefield and is undergoing his tribtion right now!" an official whispered urgently.

    "Him?"

    The Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign exchanged nces.

    They did not know whose two spirits had just appeared in the Gate of Death, but that no longer mattered.

    "If Yun Xiao perishes in his tribtion, today truly brings triple joy..." the Northstar Sword Devil said darkly.

    "Go, inform the Crown Prince, see if we need to pinpoint his location. If he''s not dead, we can finish him off and rejoice once and for all," the Dragon Tiger Sovereign instructed.

    "Yes!"

    The boundless five-colored thunderclouds caused a stir in the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    Top celestial officials emerged from the pce, evidently ordered to kick someone when they''re down.

    "Be wary of Divine Dawn; she might be around," the Northstar Sword Devil cautioned the 18 Department Legions, which also included the members of the Immortal Sword Court.

    "Dad, don''t worry, this is our turf! With the Immortal Asylum under the White Emperor''smand, whoeveres dies here! Our only task is to flush that kid out," Jian Chi said excitedly.

    He now clearly understood the true enemy. Lu Fan was merely a usurper. The Great Mother and Devil Eye were conquerors. But Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn aimed to extinguish the practice of receiving incense offerings, which was the lifeblood of the Celestial Court nobility!

    So, of these three threats, who deserved death the most?

    Many scions of celestial officials believed they knew the answer.

    With the Great Mother grievously wounded and Lu Fan having fled, seizing Yun Xiao now would ensure eternal prosperity for the Celestial Court, wouldn''t it?

    "Look! The thunderclouds are gathering, about to strike! There, that''s the spot!"

    The Constetion Army and 18 Department Legions, every cultivator among them, could pinpoint the approximate location where the thunderclouds would fall.

    "Ready!"

    At thismand, the Immortals bristled with anticipation.

 Chapter 710: My Tribulation? No, Your Tribulation!

    Chapter 710: My Tribtion? No, Your Tribtion!

    Who would believe that a youth, braving the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion, could summon a force rivaling a grand celestial formation?

    The Five Infernos Star Barrier, Sacred Emperor Barrier, and Thunder Immortal Formation¡­ The tribtion cloud summoned by Yun Xiao could at least match the Thunder Immortal Formation.

    Even if its explosive powersted but a moment, that was terrifying enough.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Thunderous roars shook the Heavenly Pce, as a multi-colored brilliance of five elements illuminated the surrounding buildings, now a war-torn ruin.

    Onlookers, their faces flickering with lightning, were caught in a turmoil of emotions, deeply shaken.

    ¡°What kind of monstrous fiend could provoke such a cataclysmic wrath of the heavens?¡±

    ¡°The heavens seek to destroy Yun Xiao. He is not favored by the Great Dao!¡±

    ¡°He has ovee the Chaos Sovereign; he could well retire victorious now.¡±

    ¡°Heaven, strike him down! Annihte him! The imperial family shall emerge victorious, winning eternal glory!¡±The Constetion Army, along with a portion of the 18 Department Legions and all the top celestial officials of the Celestial Court, anyone who was still alive, all gathered at the edge of the tribtion clouds, waiting for Yun Xiao to be struck down by divine punishment.

    ¡°The heavens have eyes; protect our people for thousands of generations!¡±

    As the final surge of the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion gathered strength, the fierce intentions of the celestial officials and Constetion Army reached their peak.

    Cold gazes of schadenfreude had already found the youth in white, beneath the crashing thunder.

    ¡°That''s what he gets for being too gifted. He''s reaped his own doom!¡±

    Jian Chi, Zhao Yuanbao, and other young prodigies sneered coldly, their eyes full of jealousy and resentment.

    Their seniors, with eyes zing and murderous intent thick in the air, waited only for the tiger to fall so they might divide and devour him...

    ¡°Strike him! Strike him! Strike him!¡±

    Loud, unified roars filled the Heavenly Pce, their voices resonating with the very frequency of the thunder tribtion, as if to echo the collective wish for Yun Xiao¡¯s demise.

    ¡°See, you do not truly represent humanity!¡±n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Above, vast thunderclouds loomed. Yun Xiao stood in the midst of the storm, the surrounding ptial buildings crushed under the weight of the clouds, leaving only his lone white figure in a vast expanse of debris.

    The youth looked up at those hiding in the distance, eager to strike, their faces as vivid as snarling hyenas.

    ¡°It¡¯s time.¡±

    In the midst of this tempest, Yun Xiao closed his eyes.

    At that moment, he made two arrangements.

    The first was to have Moon Fairy, along with the Great Mother, swiftly return from the Celestial Demon Abyss.

    Yun Xiao''s second arrangement was tomand Yue Yin and Gu Suwan to marshal the forces of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, Free Immortals, Arbiters, and all the rest who had gathered at the Thunder Department. They were to form a united front and advance toward the Heavenly Pce.

    Though time was short, news of the crisis had already spread throughout the Great Dao Celestial Realm, rallying countless willing spirits. The forces loyal to Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn now numbered 5,000,000 strong, each soldier possessing thebat power of at least a Rank 9 Arbiter, forming a veritable army of Immortals.

    This army, while perhaps not as elite, certainly outnumbered the now greatly diminished forces of the Constetion Army and 18 Department Legions.

    "Speed up, or by the time you arrive, there¡¯ll be nothing left but to celebrate victory," Yun Xiao''sst message in the flying talisman to Gu Suwan read.

    After sending the talisman, he took a deep breath and looked up at the five-colored heavenly thunder, his lips curving into a broad smile.

    The five-colored thunder roared across the heavens, while those who wished him dead grew ted.

    Yun Xiao scanned the gleeful faces and suddenly, with a narrowing of his eyes and in a low voice, said, "Who told you that this tribtion was meant for me?"

    As these words fell, the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion expanded to its utmost limit, the brilliant light swallowing all sight.

    At that moment, even the earth seemed to hold its breath.

    Still, there were those who dared to mock and revel in another¡¯s presumed misfortune, their eyes devoid of any reverence.

    In an instant, Yun Xiao spread his arms wide and gazed up at the five-colored heavenly thunder. On a ne unseen by any other, his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit surged upward, plunging into his unique Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion.

    While others faced their tribtions one by one, their spirits meekly enduring the punishment of the storm clouds, Yun Xiao faced all five at once. His spirit ascended directly into the clouds, sailing through them as if roaming the vast ocean, mastering the heavens and earth, transforming and strengthening through y and nourishment.

    Most astonishing of all, the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion seemed like an old friend to his spirit. When old friends met, they didn''t just hug and share in each other''s joy, they also vented in each other¡¯s frustrations!

    As Yun Xiao''s spirit merged with this ocean of colorless spiritual thunder, the Five Thunders Spirit Tribtion came alive, imbued with life, its fury increasing tenfold in a moment.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The colossal face of the Creator Immortal, formed from the five-colored tribtion clouds, appeared above, its thunderous eyes ring down in righteous fury at the celestial officials and Constetion Army below.

    This visage of thunder had once been the nightmare of the Thunder Department.

    Even those in the Constetion Army who had never seen it had surely heard of it.

    The moment the colossal five-colored thunderous face appeared, their smiles froze, and theughter across the Heavenly Pce ceased abruptly.

    Everything under heaven fell deathly silent.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The massive face suddenly opened its gaping maw, unleashing a multicolored spiritual thunderboltposed of all five thunders¡ªEarth Pulse, Volcanic, Moonwater, Wood Spirit, and Gold Origin! This pir of thunder struck the densest part of the Constetion Army.

    This column of five-colored thunder was far more formidable than most tribtions faced by Immortals in the Anima Tribtion Realm, magnified a thousandfold in scale!

    Yet, among these hundreds of thousands in the Constetion Army, there were hardly any left in the Anima Tribtion Realm. Most of them hadn''t even formed golden spirit bodies. Even reaching the Celestial Expanse Realm allowed one to be a Rank 4 Heavenly Officer!

    "Like crowding around for a spectacle? I''ll grant you all an early tribtion!"

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The pir of five-colored spiritual thunder sted through the ranks of the Constetion Army without stirring up any dust or debris, yet it elicited screams of agony!

    One by one, these weak and fragile spirits, even the ones merely grazed by the edge of the thunder, were instantly obliterated.

    <em>ZAP ZAP ZAP! </em>Where the lightning shed, bodies fell rigidly, eyes wide open, mostly still wearing their mocking smiles.

    "Run!"

    Screams of terror and trembling cries rose as the entire Heavenly Pce plunged into chaos again.

    The celestial officials, Constetion Army, and 18 Department Legions scrambled in panic, their eyes rolling back, brains bursting, tumbling and crawling in their rush to escape.

    It was total pandemonium! In the confusion, they even crashed into each other, smashing their heads to pulp.

    Such was the extent of the sudden terror.

    "How can this be! How can this be..." Jian Chi, pale as death, also fled for his life.

    "This is a tribtion from the heavens, how can a man wield such a divine punishment as a weapon against his enemies?"

    "It''s unreasonable! Utterly unreasonable!"

    It was a belief held hard by all.

    Tomand a grand celestial formation was one thing; to wield tribtion clouds as a weapon was another entirely.

    Tribtion clouds, manifestations of the celestial order and the world''sws, were meant to test the cultivator, not to be used against others!

    The cries of injustice echoed the sheer desperation and mental anguish faced by those witnessing this monstrosity.

    Yet, as unreasonable as it was, it was happening¡ªcontinuously.

    The colossal face of five-colored thunder in the sky, utterly impassive, belched forth column after column of five-colored spiritual thunder, bombarding the entire Heavenly Court. Anyone within the Sacred Emperor Barrier couldn''t escape Yun Xiao and the soul-annihting power.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>The ranks of the Constetion Army and 18 Department Legions, their faces pale in their flight, met premature tribtions and vanished in smoke.

    Each sweep of the five-colored thunder left thousands like electrified fish in ake¡ªeyes rolling back, bodies stiffening, rolling on the ground, motionless.

    And that five-colored thunderous face, relentless, engulfed the whole Heavenly Pce in bursts of five-colored lightning.

    Screams, roars, pleas, and wails could not overpower the thunder''s bombardment. Under this heavenly judgment, whether imperial or noble, all were equal if caught slow-footed.

    Following the Great Mother''s rampage, a new inferno of ughter emerged on the Heavenly Court¡ªmore devastating in this second half. A brief intermission had inted the egos of the celestial officials and Constetion Army, only to be obliterated by Yun Xiao.

    This deathly hell, far more spectacr than the first half, was marked by the stunning beauty of the five-colored thunder without the spray of blood and corpses. The spirits of all the imperials and nobles passed on <em>peacefully.</em>

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The bombing continued, the screams continued!

    Where the thunder struck, swathes fell dead.

    It seemed the only safe ce in the whole Heavenly Pce was under the sanguine protective dome of the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    "Back to the pce!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 711: How Does Slaughter Sound For Date Night?

    Chapter 711: How Does ughter Sound For Date Night?

    Watching the five-colored spirit thunder pirs strike towards them, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign, the Northstar Sword Devil, and others were startled into a panic, hastily signaling the assembled celestial officials to retreat back to safety.

    Kick someone while they''re down? At this moment, Yun Xiao, having fallen into the water, transformed into a great white shark, summoning storms and wreaking havoc in a chaotic ughter.

    Whoever wished to take advantage of a fallen foe found themselves instead turning into prey the moment they touched the water!

    Even the Northstar Sword Devil and the other celestial officials felt their hearts twitch with shock, their minds nk, theirmon sense so shattered they could hardly speak.

    Faced with such an unreasonable monster, their eyes could only see the refuge of the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    "Back to the pce! Let the White Emperor deal with him using the Immortal Asylum!"

    Shouts rose from the mouths of tens of thousands of core celestial officials gathered here, fighting shoulder to shoulder with the imperial family members. They were the staunch supporters and beneficiaries of the incense offerings.

    <em>BANG! BANG! BANG! </em>A massive crowd surged towards the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    Emerging only to hide again was truly a sight of disarray!However, as these officials neared the Taiwei Imperial Pce, thunder suddenly surged in the sky above. The multicolored tribtion clouds violently condensed into a world-splitting five-colored thunder orb, which abruptly fell from the heavens, striking the sanguine barrier of the Taiwei Imperial Pce!

    <em>BOOM! </em>A thunderous explosion shook the heavens and earth.

    The blinding five-colored lightning momentarily obscured everyone¡¯s vision, the intense explosion causing the grounds of the Heavenly Pce to tremble, even throwing Jian Chi and Zhao Yuanbao to the ground, their blood energies in turmoil.

    <em>RUMBLE! </em>The aftershocks of the explosionsted a long time.

    It was scare after scare! One by one, the celestial officials climbed to their feet, and as the red glow and colorful shes dissipated, they were stunned to see that the sanguine barrier over the Taiwei Imperial Pce had vanished!

    This meant theirst safeguard was gone, and the White Emperor was still unconscious¡­

    ¡°We¡¯re in big trouble,¡± the Northstar Sword Devil murmured with a deep frown.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    ¡°Fortunately!¡± The Dragon Tiger Sovereign pointed towards the sky, gritting his teeth. ¡°The tribtion clouds have dispersed, their power exhausted!¡±

    Perhaps this was the only piece of good news.

    "Yun Xiao is still in the sky!"

    The celestial officials looked up to see the youth, who unknown to them, had seated himself cross-legged in the sky, his eyes closed, seemingly nurturing his spirit, making final adjustments after sessfully crossing the tribtion.

    "He might have broken through five stages in one go, rapidly replenishing his celestial power." The Northstar Sword Devil frowned again.

    "It''s no matter... At his core, he''s still within the Anima Tribtion Realm; this kid, devoid of some special trump card,cks the intrinsicbat strength. Not to mention the White Emperor and Crown Prince, even our cultivation surpasses his..."

    Yet, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign appeared to be among the quickest to rush back toward the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    All the celestial officials cowered under the pretext of protecting the White Emperor.

    As for the Constetion Army and 18 Department Legions, the corpses of imperials and nobles were everywhere, decimated in the recent destructive assault. Even those who remained seemed too terrified to move, squatting on the ground, sweating profusely, with no one left tomand them.

    Today''s double massacres by the Great Mother and Yun Xiao had decimated the Constetion Army, the most elite force of the Heavenly Pce, their millenia-old imperial lineage almostpletely wiped out.

    Even so, the remaining soldiers of the Constetion Army and 18 Department Legions shockingly discovered that their peril was not yet over.

    Out of nowhere, a vast blue sea appeared on the battlefield, dragging each disabled and dying soldier beneath its waves. With a sizzling sound, these Immortals ceased to move.

    This blue expanse was executing a thorough eradication of these imperials and nobles.

    "It''s the corpse-demon nurtured by Yun Xiao!"

    Heart-rending screams filled the air again, sporadic but reflecting the dire straits of the imperial family and nobility of the Heavenly Pce. They weren''t just killed but annihted in spirit. Now, they wouldn''t just be annihted in spirit, not even their corpses would be spared!

    This was the most feared karmic retribution deep within their hearts, now horrifyingly realized.

    "Move!"

    Tens of thousands of celestial officials, drenched in sweat, had lost the courage to resist. They were truly frightened. Only by returning to the side of the White Emperor might they feel safe...

    Among these figures, those who had once watched Yun Xiao ascend to the top of the Immortal Tournament at the Divine Gateway and had attended the Divine Peach Banquet were present. Now, they were intimidated by Yun Xiao, retreating again and again.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Just as the Taiwei Imperial Pce came into view, suddenly, a graceful white figure descended from the sky, its apanying two massive snow-white orbs smashing into the ground.

    Outside the Taiwei Imperial Pce, the surrounding celestial pces were pulverized into dust, the ground cracking open with thousands of fissures stretching before the celestial officials!

    These officials, at least Rank 4 or higher, looked up in terror. Out of the mists, a small figure, fierce as a tiger, stood atop one of the Primordial Doom Stars, blocking the entrance to the Taiwei Imperial Pce alone!

    She was the embodiment of a certain idiom¡ª"A lone figure guards the door, ten thousand can''t advance anymore."

    "Seventh Princess..."

    As these officials gazed at the petite, indifferent girl in white, they recalled the deaths of the Longevity Immortal, Tai Sui Sage, and Sixth Prince, instilling a deep fear within them.

    An imperial princess had be the greatest rebel in the Celestial Court!

    Even death could not im her¡ªshe returned only more formidable!

    When she stood before the white dragon steps of the Taiwei Imperial Pce, even Rank 1 Heavenly Officers like the Dragon Tiger Sovereign dared not advance.

    "Lil Xi! I am your uncle..."

    The Dragon Tiger Sovereign took a deep breath, attempting to appeal to kinship, but as soon as he spoke, the girl in white chillingly responded, "The ones I wish to kill the most upon my return are my parents and brothers. Why would I spare you, Uncle?"

    "Enough," the Northstar Sword Devil said, his gaze somber as he fixed it upon Divine Dawn. "Seventh Princess, do not boast on your own. If you do not step aside, do not me us for being ruthless."

    He also reminded the Dragon Tiger Sovereign and the others that Divine Dawn could be used to threaten Yun Xiao, a rumor floating that this pair were somehow involved with each other.

    "Who says I''m alone? I have someone with me!" Divine Dawn''s icy face warmed slightly as she spoke these words.

    As she looked up at the gathered celestial officials, a chill ran down their spines!

    They turned sharply, only to see behind them, a youth in the Rank 9 Arbiter armor, floating in midair. His attire was tinum white, his ck hair billowing, his eyes misty with a golden haze, and his body wrapped in a blood mist like dragons. One hand held a violet umbre, the other a three-foot azure de!

    His golden eyes, full of <empassion</em>,<em></em>stared down at the assembled officials.

    "Uh..."

    Seeing this heaven-defying freak of nature, these supreme Immortals, despite their reluctance to admit it, involuntarily inhaled sharply in fear.

    Havingmanded the wind and rain in the Great Dao Celestial Realm for so long, standing at the pinnacle among Immortals, these celestial officials had their own pride.

    Yes, they feared the Great Mother. But Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn? These two make-believe heroes were supposed to be puppets dancing to their tune¡ªeasily threatened and manipted, hardly a threat.

    Yet, now, with Divine Dawn blocking the white dragon steps and Yun Xiao behind them, these lofty figures of the Celestial Court found themselves in a humiliating position.

    The Northstar Sword Devil, ever the vtile Sword Immortal, could bear it no longer. He proimed loudly, "Fellow Immortals, these mere children have gone too far. Why not join forces to eliminate them, to clear away these rebels against heaven and purify the righteous path?"

    His call ignited the pent-up fury in the hearts of the Ster Margraves, Supreme Generals, Treasure Deities, Sages, Sword Monarchs, and various other celestial officials.

    Indeed, the thought struck all of them.

    <em>We might be afraid of the Great Mother, but we''re not afraid of you two!</em>

    The recent upheaval by the tribtion clouds was but an external force; true powery in one''s cultivation. How could 10,000 officials of the Heavenly Pce fear just two youngsters?

    "We shall act as heaven''s agents!"

    "I follow!"

    "An old man like me is willing to throw away my life and shed blood for the heavenly way!"

    Suddenly, the Immortals were inmed, erupting into action. Swords Souls, Life Sigils, and Magic Treasures were brandished. They were all shrewd, having kept a low profile to save their skins, unlike the Three Great Constetions who had met their doom.

    Now, their patience was spent; there was no more holding back! Angered, they stormed into battle!

    The Northstar Sword Devil furiously unleashed his Sword Soul, containing 89 Sword Prisons, pointing it at Yun Xiao as he thundered, "Kil¡ªUKH!"

    The <em>word</em> had barely left his lips when a streak of azure light, too fast for the eye to catch, passed over his mouth.

    <em>SPLURT! </em>The Northstar Sword Devil¡¯s head burst with blood, pointing at Yun Xiao, he fell dead, motionless.

    Seeing this, the other Immortals felt their boiling blood suddenly freeze.

    Their necks stiff, they turned to look at Yun Xiao, who casually caught the azure light, licked it off his lips, and sneered, "What a piece of trash, daring to sneak attack me at the Gate of Death using his spirit."

    The Immortals were thoroughly shaken.

    "Flee!"

    "Go!"

    "Kill!"

    "Ah?"

    ¡­

    Ten thousand top celestial officials emitted various cries, scattering in different directions.

    Seeing this chaos, Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn exchanged nces.

    Even without words, it was clear they werepeting over who could kill more¡­

 Chapter 712: Snatching Food From a Tigers Mouth!

    Chapter 712: Snatching Food From a Tiger''s Mouth!

    At that moment, Yun Xiao had reached the Establishment Anima Tribtion Realm, with the Mortal Dust Devil Blood having entered the Night God Realm.

    Uniting this with the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit after transcending the tribtion, Yun Xiao''sbat power soared to the highest peak of the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Even if slightly slower than the Divine Destion Physique and Mortal Dust Devil Blood, Yun Xiao shattered five stages in one go, furiously ascending thedder of the Celestial Court.

    His adversaries fell into the same old facies once more. They knew he was formidable, but never imagined him to be this formidable.

    This included the abruptly deceased Northstar Sword Devil!

    He too knew Yun Xiao could end him. So, he stirred the crowd, downying Yun Xiao''s true strength, waiting for others to swarm in so he could flee to the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    Who would have thought that the Sovereign of the Immortal Sword Court, with a single Flying Sword passing through the crowd, would have his soul severed on the spot?

    His instant death sent shockwaves through the minds of all the celestial officials present.

    "He''s more fearsome than the Great Mother!"In that moment, all pride was shattered, every supreme Immortal forgot their lofty statuses, reduced to worms under the shadows of fear and reverence, faces ashen, scattering in chaos.

    Phrases such as "Kill!", "This brat is nothing!", "Don''t be afraid!", "For the White Emperor!", and "Blood for the imperial throne!" filled the air. Yet, in reality, each official fled more decisively than thest.

    Their twisted faces were a mirror of their distorted hearts, drunk on incense offerings.

    The Celestial Court, with its suprememand, postured in luxury without ever facing a real challenge. Today, the Great Mother and Yun Xiao dealt them hard blows, tearing off their masks of false virtue to reveal the bloodlust and cowardice within.

    Whether Rank 4 Immortals or Rank 1 Sovereigns like the Northstar Sword Devil and Dragon Tiger Sovereign, under the crushing force of destruction, their demeanor of panic and abandon were the same.

    "Don''t panic! He''s probably spent his energy, let''s attack together! If we bombard him with Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial weapons, even the Great Mother would fall!"

    The Dragon Tiger Sovereign''s roar steadied their hearts for a moment before he burrowed into the ground, fleeing in a circuitous route.

    He even realized that even the Taiwei Imperial Pce might not be safe.

    The death of the Northstar Sword Devil bled his heart.

    All those dismissive ims of Yun Xiao''s cultivation being below theirs were for others to hear. He knew better than anyone that Yun Xiao was a monster born of the celestial path, a sure death for anyone who faced him.

    "Since he''s a product of the Immortal Asylum, only the Immortal Asylum can destroy him. It''s up to His Majesty to take action. I''d better avoid the sharp edge and save some face for the Heavenly Pce!"

    Burying beneath the ground, hiding from view, the Dragon Tiger Sovereign felt a hint of safety.

    However, in that instant, the golden soil and rocks around him burst open, and a girl in a white dress crashed through, appearing before the Dragon Tiger Sovereign with eyes of thundering rage and zing fire, her body enveloped in white lightning and mes, her ck hair whipping about like that of a celestial deity!

    "Uncle, rushing to be reborn, are you?"

    Her voice, delicate and soft, sounded like a tiger''s roar, vibrating the ears of the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    "Seventh Princess!" The Dragon Tiger Sovereign gritted his teeth, and in his hands suddenly appeared a symbol of the dragon and tiger. The Life Sigil transformed into a dragon and tiger, rushing and biting towards Divine Dawn.

    "You really should die." Divine Dawn''s eyes sprayed out thunder and fire. Suddenly, a pagoda appeared in her hand. Grasping the spire, she wielded the Primal Pagoda as if it were a massive mace, smashing it down upon the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    With a thunderous crash, the Primordial Pagoda''s force, unmatched and tyrannical, swept across like a storm, instantly shattering the Dragon Tiger Sigil and smashing down upon the head of the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    With a muffled grunt, a supreme Immortal in the Night God Realm was sted away by Divine Dawn''s overwhelming power, blood spurting from every pore, instantly turning him into a blood-drenched figure.

    "Stop, I wish to redeem myself. To help you eradicate the scourge of the incense offerings, you need hands!" The Dragon Tiger Sovereign''s face twisted in desperation, making hisst stand.

    <em>ROAR! </em>The girl in the white dress roared, her form like a ball of thunder and fire, her tiger eyes wide, a character for <em>King</em> on her forehead, and her gaze filled with murderous intent, uttering no words, only seeking her opponent''s life.

    The White Tiger, the master of ughter, was fully embodied in Divine Dawn.

    "You¡­!" The Dragon Tiger Sovereign''s face twisted in agony, desperately trying to crawl towards a crowd for safety.

    But in that instant, a blood dragon suddenly plunged from the sky, entwining itself around the Dragon Tiger Sovereign.

    The dragon scales transformed into countless little blood dragons, numbering in the tens of thousands, biting into every part of his body¡ªeyes, ears, mouth, nose, skin¡ªthick blood mist spraying out!

    "GAGHH!!" The Dragon Tiger Sovereign cried out in agony, his body trembling uncontrobly.

    "What are you doing?" Divine Dawn suddenly halted, looking up to the sky.

    At the end of the blood dragon was Yun Xiao, floating in mid-air, surrounded by sshes of celestial blood.

    "Snatching food from the tiger''s mouth." Yun Xiao chuckled, and a fierce fire surged from the blood dragon, engulfing the Dragon Tiger Sovereign''s body.

    A Rank 1 Sovereign, the overseer of the Imperial Treasury, was evaporated under the ze of the blood dragon and refined by Yun Xiao.

    "Ugh, so annoying!" Divine Dawn bit her lip, her little tiger teeth drawing blood, clearly infuriated by Yun Xiao''s audacious move.

    She could not touch Yun Xiao. So, she directed all her fury at the celestial officials around her.

    Thunderous roars erupted as she burst from beneath the earth. On her delicate arms, she swung a massive me meteor hammer in one hand and a thunder meteor hammer in the other. Controlled with deadly precision, these Primordial Doom Stars struck like lightning and fell like meteors, devastating the battlefield with their raw power.

    Each strike shook the Heavenly Pce, opening vast fissures in the ground. Pces crumbled and smoke billowed as screams echoed in the chaos.

    The cracked earth was littered with the bodies of celestial officials, smashed into a bloody pulp by her overwhelming force. Regardless of their dignified titles and the followers theymanded, or the legends they inspired among mortals, now they were reduced to nothing more than flesh.

    Hearth Gods, Thunder Dukes, Love Gods¡­ none were spared. All were stripped of their dignified exteriors. Beneath the pure brutality of her onught, they were reduced to whimpering wretches.

    Compared to Divine Dawn''s cruelty, Yun Xiao''s kills were like those of an artist. The celestial officials who died by his hand did so cleanly, without a drop of blood left behind.

    The youth, with a sword and umbre, strolled through the chaos like a wolf among sheep. Wherever he went, celestial officials ceased to exist, their souls scattered, their deaths a dark art form.

    Thousands of Flying Swords, Life Sigils, and celestial treasures attacked, all repelled by his umbre.

    His own Flying Sword pierced through ranks unerringly¡ª300 strikes, 300 deaths.

    Most fearsome was his manifested Creator Immortal spirit. The Buddha''s Treasure Spirit attacked and defended as one with Yun Xiao. Where his sword passed, spirits were torn asunder, cruelly dispatched in the blink of an eye.

    Now, Yun Xiao moved like a shadow of death, his physical form and spirit acting in a lethal concert. His de swept through the crowd, unstoppable.

    Yun Xiao''s Blood Base was already in the Night God Realm, cing him at the same cultivation as those Rank 1 Sovereigns. So, it was hardly a surprise that no one could withstand a single strike from his sword.

    All the remaining Sovereigns refused to engage Yun Xiao, ducking away while convincing others to face him first. However, he hunted them down relentlessly, employing the strategy of taking out the leaders first!

    Explosions continued from Divine Dawn''s side¡ªa chaotic blend of tiger roars, thunder, and earthquakes¡ªso loud that one might think a great warlord dominated the battlefield, not a young girl.

    In contrast, Yun Xiao''s side was eerily silent, but the ground was littered with countless bodies, fallen in absolute terror. Not even a fly could pass over his territory and remain whole.

    Under such ruthless ughter, the remaining celestial officials lost all will to fight.

    No more could any voice rally them; confidence had evaporated.

    Their hearts filled with fear, they scattered in all directions, no longer seeing the Taiwei Imperial Pce as a refuge but hoping to escape the bounds of the Heavenly Pce, even the Great Dao Celestial Realm, to avoid the storm.

    But just then, an endless ocean appeared above the Heavenly Pce, filling the inner sanctum of the Sacred Emperor Barrier and transforming it into a marsh-like sea of confinement, thick and unyielding, blocking all paths of escape.

    "Corpse demon..."

    The appearance of this confining sea only deepened the despair and panic among the terrified officials.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om</blockquote>

 Chapter 713: A Sons Touching Faith in His Father

    Chapter 713: A Son''s Touching Faith in His Father

    The celestial officials charged headlong into the sealing sea, but soon found themselves trapped as if in a swamp, their speed greatly hindered.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword streaked through the sky, striking with deadly precision. An azure light zed across the heavens for thousands of miles as his spirit melded with the de, not needing his hands to skewer a string of lofty Immortals!

    Screams of agony, cries of despair, and woeful sobs echoed between heaven and earth.

    Looking down upon the Heavenly Pce, what was once a glorious and bustling divinend of Immortals nowy in ruin, soaked in blood. The once dominant imperial family, after two waves of ruthless ughter, barely had any survivors in sight.

    It was utter annihtion!

    "Retribution! Oh, retribution!"

    One by one, the high-ranking Immortals finally shed tears of remorse.

    "Why did creatures like Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn, defying the natural order,e into being? Don''t you see? We brought this upon ourselves, viting the true celestial decrees!"

    "They are not aberrations of the heavenly way; they are the embodiment of celestial punishment!""We, the imperial family, the Crown Prince and White Emperor, truly deserve death..."

    Those cries of agony had turned into heart-wrenching sobs at this moment.

    Whether it was genuine remorse from the heart or a forced sentiment driven by fear, it no longer mattered to Yun Xiao.

    His sword never halted for tears. In the Primordial Ruins, facing the Three Immortals, he had witnessed firsthand the devastation of the incense offerings. From that moment, the word <em>repentance</em> was erased from his heart.

    In the grand scheme of things, some may have been coerced. But he had neither the time nor the luxury to discern each case.

    He was only responsible for following his own will, to overturn it all. Good deeds were to be done, but on his terms.

    Yun Xiao''s sword, umbre, and spirit were instruments of death.

    He and Divine Dawn turned the Heavenly Pce into a purgatory, a sea of lingering souls.

    On this day, the Heavenly Pce was no longer eternally bright. Blood and mists of decay obscured everything, all the prosperity built on the corpses from the mortal realm wasid to ruin in a cathartic destruction.

    Darkness and bloodshed enveloped this finest ofnds, as if the apocalypse had descended.

    But in truth, this was the true visage of thisnd.

    It was a supreme society that devoured its own, the feast of peaches constructed from the blood of mortals, all the splendor but a mask for sin.

    Yun Xiao simply revealed the true face of this realm.

    Darkness, bloodshed, and evesting turmoil!

    "Light emerges from darkness, and the heavenly dao must put one to death before granting rebirth. My duty is to kill; others will have to take up the task of creating a new world."

    What came after, Yun Xiao cared no more. He was solely charged with the act of killing. Killing everything that incensed him, everything he could not stand. As his heart was soaked in blood, he lifted his head and surveyed the blood-soakednd around him.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes welled up with hot tears.

    "Arbiter Lu, do you see? Those who tormented you, they''re all dead now."

    What a fine day it was. Lu Yao had made his name. And Lu An had finally reported all he had witnessed to the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm, stripping evil of its splendid garments, revealing its hideousness to all.

    Yun Xiao''s wrath in the Celestial Court was fueled half by Lu Yao and half by Lu An.

    ¡°No¡­ they are not yet fully vanquished.¡±

    In the chilling wind, Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes, aze with the force of his sword, gazed toward the only spot in the bloody battlefield that remained pure white, sanctified, and supremely exalted¡ªthe Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    The time for the final battle hade.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The inside of the Taiwei Imperial Pce was eerily quiet and calm. Within these sacred halls that had never been breached, the brutal and horrifying ughter unfolding outside drew soft screams and soul-lost murmurs.

    Most of those remaining in the Taiwei Imperial Pce were the wives and children of various celestial officials.

    Of course, there were also the Crown Prince, Empress Zhao, Crown Princess, and the Combat Sovereign tasked with their protection.

    The Combat Sovereign, d in heavy golden armor, watched as her peers fell one by one. Even she, beneath her helmet, was pale.

    She turned her gaze back to Empress Zhao and the Crown Prince. Although they sat high upon their thrones, were they not just as pale? Their hands, gripping the armrests, were clenched tight, veins bulging.

    The entire Taiwei Imperial Pce was now overshadowed by Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn.

    The Sun Sword Goddess and Lady Fortune, having lost their spouses, were in panic.

    Lady Fortune even pleaded with Empress Zhao in a piercing voice, "The Seventh Princess is your own daughter, can you not persuade her? If we must, we¡¯ll all forgo our incense offerings! If this ughter continues, not one celestial official will remain in the Heavenly Pce!"

    "Silence," Empress Zhao said, her voice trembling, her face as cold as ice.

    This daughter¡­ she had raised her from birth. From the love they once shared to theirst life-and-death struggle, she was acutely aware of the disappointment and enmity that had grown between them.

    The moment Divine Dawn died a few days ago marked the severing of their blood ties.

    "Her body was burnt to ashes, that can''t be her!" Empress Zhao''s neck veins bulged as she coldly snapped at Lady Fortune.

    Her fierce reaction made it clear to everyone; there was no appeasing Divine Dawn now. But if the White Emperor did not awaken soon, they would all perish!

    "Do not worry! His Majesty will awaken in time, take control of the Immortal Asylum, and restore order, quelling all chaos!" Empress Zhao dered loudly.

    "Let''s withdraw!"

    Suddenly, a voice spoke up, overshadowing Empress Zhao''s. It was the Crown Prince himself!

    His pale face lifted as he looked at the dwindling number of celestial officials and said through gritted teeth, "I say we withdraw for now!"

    "What do you mean?" Empress Zhao''s expression flickered between light and dark.

    The Crown Prince red at her and snapped, "Are you deaf? Open the void exit, and let¡¯s evacuate from the Taiwei Imperial Pce! We need to provide a safe ce for my father to recuperate. Once he''s recovered, we can return to fight!"

    "..." Empress Zhao had no choice but to lower her head.

    In front of the Crown Prince, she was fundamentally a junior,cking the same authority. Since this was the Crown Prince''s decision, any me would fall on him, not her.

    Though the Crown Prince¡¯s decision was somewhat defeatist, it visibly relieved everyone present.

    "Right, let¡¯s retreat first."

    "His Majesty desperately needs rest!"

    "Who will escort His Majesty¡¯s divine body?"

    As the celestial officials were discussing, the Crown Prince moved to assist theatose White Emperor.

    However, as he approached, a blood-red pir from the Immortal Asylum suddenly rose, guarding the White Emperor and blocking the Crown Prince¡¯s path.

    "The Immortal Asylum is actually protecting its master on its own!" the Crown Prince said, trembling.

    "Does this mean we can''t move His Majesty now?" the Combat Sovereign asked in a deep voice.

    With a swish, all eyes turned to the Crown Prince!

    The White Emperor could not be moved, and by all ounts, they should have held their ground, supporting the battlefield until the White Emperor awoke.

    However, the Crown Prince clenched his teeth and dered, "This means the affinity between the Immortal Asylum and my Imperial Father is exceptional! With the Immortal Asylum''s protection, he will surely be safe until he recovers! Yun Xiao only reached his current strength by benefiting from the Immortal Asylum, but my father has the Immortal Asylum itself, which can suppress him with ease!"

    "So, what the Crown Prince is suggesting is..." Empress Zhao ventured.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "We should enter the void exit first. Let''s not add to the casualties and be a burden that hinders my Imperial Father''s ability to eliminate these fiends," the Crown Prince stated gravely.

    Hearing this, even if they felt it strange, everyone understood the Crown Prince''s mental gymnastics and agreed to support him.

    After all, who would want to die in vain?

    In an instant, everyone rallied behind the Crown Prince.

    Even if the White Emperor would be furiouster, it would be the Crown Prince who would bear the brunt.

    Empress Zhao said no more.

    Seeing the situation outside, the Crown Prince did not hesitate further. He activated a celestial formation behind the throne, and soon, a void pathway appeared before him!

    "Let¡¯s go!"

    The Crown Prince was the first to step into it and fled. Empress Zhao, without a word, followed second. Then, the Crown Princess, Lady Fortune, Sun Sword Goddess, and others entered in session, with the Combat Sovereign covering their retreat as thest one out.

    "Your Majesty, you must prevail!" The Combat Sovereign gave a lingering look at the white-haired, white-eyed old man, listening as the sounds from outside began to die down, signaling the celestial officials had nearly been annihted!

    She took a deep breath and hurried into the void pathway.

    After her entry, the pathway gradually faded and vanished...

    In the dimly lit hall, only the white-haired old man remained, seated cross-legged on the throne, head bowed, clutching the blood-red Immortal Asylum, utterly still.

    Within a window of the Immortal Asylum, blood granules were flowing into the body of the white-haired elder.

    Suddenly, a loud boom resonated from outside, and the entire Heavenly Pce fell utterly silent.

 Chapter 714: Cuckold Comes Home to Roost

    Chapter 714: Cuckold Comes Home to Roost

    Beneath the Heavenly Pce, therey a zing ocean vast and unyielding, wrought from the very fabric of the Celestial Sourcecore. This fiery expanse, bursting with uncontroble power, was no ce for the cultivation. Even for ordinary Immortals, mere survival in this crucible was a formidable challenge, let alone any meaningful progression. So, this stretch of creationy deserted, untouched by any signs of life.

    In that moment, within the molten veins of ore-like stone, a gusty portal abruptly tore open.

    With a thunderous roar, the silhouettes of Immortals burst forth from this portal, their celestial power surging out to form a protective barrier around their flesh. Only with such defenses could they find a semnce of stability within this relentless forge.

    Leading them was a figure of striking presence¡ªtall, with a face as fine as cut jade and a bearing both regal and unrivaled in beauty. Yet, his expression was marred by distress, his mood visibly stormy and vtile. This was none other than the Crown Prince of the Celestial Court.

    "Zhao Shi, quickly summon the Western Kunlun Pce!" the Crown Princemanded, turning to address a woman of stately grace and imperial dignity, d in a gold and ck phoenix robe.

    Under normal circumstances, no imperial prince would dare to address the Empress Dowager in such a manner, for their ages and experiences were worlds apart. To the world, she was the maternal figure of the Celestial Court; to him, perhaps nothing more than another of his father''s consorts.

    Despite her youthpared to the Crown Prince, in this crisis, she exuded a calm that belied her age, her every action radiating nobility and an untouchable grace. She responded to the Crown Prince¡¯s harshmand with silence, waving her hand through the air. A mystical light shot into the Celestial Sourcecore forge and vanished.

    Soon after, all those who had escaped the Taiwei Imperial Pce emerged safely from this void passage, which then sealed with a loud boom, allowing the survivors a moment of respite.

    "I wonder if His Majesty has confronted Yun Xiao..." the Crown Prince¡¯s consort, Saintess Yao Xi, murmured with a worried look.N?v(el)B\\jnn"Quiet," the Crown Prince snapped, his irritation evident as he red at the delicate beauty beside him.

    Saintess Yao Xi bowed her head, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her garment.

    Before long, a burst of bird song filled the air, and looking up, they saw a massive azure bird soaring through the mes, approaching swiftly. This was no ordinary bird but a moving pce formed from myriad regal courts, propelled by an intricate array that mimicked the form of a celestial bird.

    This was the Western Kunlun Pce, a mobile stronghold uniquely possessed by the Empress Dowager, symbolizing the feminine power of the Celestial Court and controlled by her alone.

    As the Western Kunlun Pce reached the end of the void passage, it was clearly there to hasten the escape of these celestial officials from the Heavenly Pce.

    "Activate the Azure Bird Mystical Array!" the Crown Prince said impatiently, casting a quick nce at Zhao Shi. "Hurry up, and once inside, secure the control of the array''s core."

    "Yes." Empress Zhao nodded submissively.

    The gathered Immortals, mainly the female rtives of the imperial family and celestial officials, along with a host of young prodigies such as Jian Chi and Zhao Yuanbao, who had been lucky enough to slip into the Taiwei Imperial Pce during the initial chaos, all lowered their heads, still shaken from the ordeal.

    Empress Zhao activated the Azure Bird Mystical Array, and the Crown Prince was the first to step inside. Once within the array, the tumultuous storm of the Celestial Sourcecore forge was barred from entry, instilling a serene quiet. Before themy an ethereal realm, a haven blooming with peach blossoms, filled with the chirping of birds and the fragrance of flowers, a ce both fresh and pure.

    Only within the sanctuary of this Azure Bird Mystical Array did the gathered Immortals finally breathe a sigh of relief, their tense spirits beginning to settle. Some wept softly, while others voicedments or showed signs of confusion¡ªemotions they could scarcely contain.

    Now, their only hope was for the White Emperor to subdue Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn, to rebuild the Celestial Court and restore its former glory.

    The Crown Prince stood before them all, drawing in a deep breath, his emotions steadying into calm.

    He was about to dere their next course of action when suddenly, he heard a noise from the most splendid Peach Blossom Vi within this idyllic realm.

    "Zhao Shi, is there someone inside the Peach Blossom Vi?!" His brows furrowed as he turned to cast a cold nce at Empress Zhao.

    Surprised, she responded with a slight gasp, "That can''t be possible."

    Hearing this, tension gripped the crowd.

    "Come out!" the Crown Princemanded sternly. His celestial power swept forth like a colossal beast, pressing down upon the luxurious vi, causing it to tremble violently.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Just then, the doors of the Peach Blossom Vi burst open, and a wave of petals flowed out. Within this floral cascade, three figures emerged.

    The onlookers were left breathless at the sight.

    nking the sides were two strikingly beautiful women, naturally seductive, each with fox ears and tails, their figures exquisitely graceful¡ªthe very epitome of allure.

    Everyone recognized them. It was the Lunar Demon Mistress and her daughter Wuqing¡ªa pair of mother and daughter fox demons.

    Between them, a man with a leisurely smile embraced their slender waists. This man, d in golden robes, with unkempt hair and murky eyes, his face flush with the hue of intoxication and his feet bare, seemed to float as he walked.

    "Lu Fan!!"

    Upon seeing this man, the Crown Prince''s eyes frosted over instantly, a mixture of murderous intent and dread flooding his heart.

    His inner chill deepened abruptly as he turned back to re at Empress Zhao and demanded, "How is this condemned prisoner in your Western Kunlun Pce?!"

    Standing upright, Empress Zhao, supported on either side by Saintess Yao Xi and the Combat Sovereign, faced the furious interrogation of the Crown Prince without a reply, merely a slight curl at the corner of her mouth.

    In that instant, her hands clenched, and the power of the entire Western Kunlun Pce surged into her fingertips. As one of the Celestial Court''s most vital legacies, the pce unleashed a formidable array force at that moment.

    Thunderous booms resounded as, under Empress Zhao''smand, giant azure columns, wreathed in feathered plumes, shot up from beneath the Crown Prince¡¯s feet. Interwoven swiftly into a birdcage, the columns constricted, transforming into tendrils that wound around the Crown Prince.

    "Zhao Shi, are you rebelling!" the Crown Prince bellowed, his voice echoing through the Western Kunlun Pce like the roar of a fearsome dragon. The azure pirs and feathered cage shattered around him, seemingly unable to suppress his celestial might.

    At that critical moment, behind Empress Zhao, a line of women, all celestial officials and imperial family members, joined hands, channeling their celestial power into her back. As their power roared through the array, a divine light burst forth, solidifying the azure columns and cage once again with such force that the Crown Prince was driven to his knees, cracking the ground beneath him.

    "You...!" He stared, wide-eyed and incredulous, at the faces before him, now cold as ice, which momentarily wiped his mind nk.

    Just then, a dazzling golden-ck light burst from above his head, and the vast Chaos Emperor Lotus appeared, unleashing a soul-crushing pressure that bore down on the Crown Prince''s spirit.

    "AGHH!!" His scream tore through the air as both his physical body and spirit began to fracture under this sudden, dual assault¡ªan experience he had not suffered for ages, protected under the White Emperor.

    "You wretched women dare to rebel against the supreme Celestial Court!"

    The Crown Prince, wounded and furious, roared like a mighty dragon. His voice shook the heavens, and a blinding white light burst from him, illuminating the Western Kunlun Pce and forcing the Immortals back, some coughing blood from the sheer force.

    In the blink of an eye, Empress Zhao, her face as cold as a cier, rushed forward with a celestial sword in hand. She plunged into the birdcage, and with a swift stroke, her sword sharp as the serene waters of a peach blossom pond, she struck the Crown Prince''s right arm.

    With a wet sound, the arm was severed, blood spurting wildly.

    "GAHHH!" Already overwhelmed by the array''s crushing force and now losing an arm, the Crown Prince''s agony was beyond words. His eyes split with pain as he screamed, "Zhao Shi, everything you havees from my Imperial Father''s nurturing. How can you betray your conscience and y the ingrate!"

    As he raged, another figure appeared beside him, wielding a short sword that moved with lightning speed. In a swift moment, the Crown Prince''s left arm was also cleaved off, blood gushing forth.

    Shocked to his core, the Crown Prince stared at the assant, looking as though he''d been struck by thunder.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 715: And So The Game Continues

    Chapter 715: And So The Game Continues

    "Yao Xi..." The Crown Prince''s eyes widened like copper bells, trembling as he gazed at the delicate girl before him, with her rabbit-like innocence.

    Memories flooded his mind of how he had overlooked her wed origins, cherished her, and elevated her to the status of Crown Princess.

    For years, he had nurtured her, making her the envy of every woman under the heavens. But now, her face was sttered with his blood, and she looked down on him, a mocking smile ying on her lips. Her eyes, filled with disdain, pierced his heart, cutting it into a thousand pieces.

    "Why..." The Crown Prince''s voice, once filled with anger, now carried a hint of destion. No grief could surpass the death of his spirit. He had despised Empress Zhao, but never had he imagined that the sweet, docile girl who shared his bed would deliver this fatal blow.

    More cruelly, no one answered his cries. Two more formidable women appeared in the cage. A nine-tailed fox demon grinned savagely and tore off the Crown Prince''s left leg on the spot. Another, d in golden armor and wielding the golden war de he had bestowed upon her, severed hisst remaining limb.

    Four top female Immortals from the Celestial Court, each with a single move, transformed the once-revered myth of the Crown Prince into human swine...

    Now, the Crown Princey crippled in a pool of blood, his body crushed under the dual suppression of the Azure Bird Mystical Array and Chaos Emperor Lotus. The four women stood around him, looking down with eyes full of scorn and mockery.

    "Ugh..." The noble Crown Prince of the Celestial Court could not withstand such contempt. His heart and soul were torn apart in disbelief, his will shattered. All he could do was repeat over and over, "Why? Why?"

    "Enough, don''t kill him, my darlings."Suddenly, azy, rough voice sounded in the Crown Prince''s ear. His bloodshot eyes struggled to focus, seeing a disheveled middle-aged man, Lu Fan, yawning and stretching. He addressed the exquisite, noble female Immortals around the Crown Prince, "I''ve missed you all. Haven''t you been waiting long?"

    Empress Zhao lowered her head slightly, her face flushed. "My lord, it has been too long since we were intimate."

    Such blunt words from the Empress Dowager didn''t cause any shame among those present; rather, they looked at her with envy.

    "Is that so?" Lu Fan threw a flirtatious nce at Empress Zhao, causing the hearts of the gathered women to flutter. He shrugged and stepped forward, cing his foot on the Crown Prince''s face, a mocking smile on his lips. "Do you understand now, Your Highness? This isn''t the Western Kunlun Pce. This is my harem."

    "You! You''re heartless! Heaven will not tolerate this!" The Crown Prince''s spirit shatteredpletely as he looked at this flippant man and the goddesses who were now like lovesick puppies before him. His heart ached as if torn by a thousand des.

    "It seems you still don''t get it." Lu Fan tilted his head, scanning the crowd. Suddenly, he remarked, "How did some men sneak in here? Kill them."

    At those words, the already disoriented young male Immortals were struck with terror.

    "Mother, let''s run!" Jian Chi hurriedly grasped the arm of his mother, the Sun Sword Goddess.

    "Go!" On the other side, Zhao Yuanbao, drenched in sweat, clutched his mother, Lady Fortune.

    "We can''t escape, my child."

    The Sun Sword Goddess'' eyes were crazed. Suddenly, a Sword Soul appeared in her hand, and with one swift stroke, she severed her son''s head. She then crawled on her knees towards Lu Fan, presenting the head as an offering.

    Beside her, Lady Fortune''s Life Sigil shattered Zhao Yuanbao''s skull.

    "Mother, I''m scared... so scared..." Zhao Yuanbao''s body iled, grabbing at the air like a drowning man.

    One by one, thest dozen young male prodigies who had escaped from the Taiwei Imperial Pce fell by their mothers'' hands, each death more bewildering than thest.

    Some young girls, unaware of the situation, were scared out of their wits, while their mothers and sisters calmly assured them that to offer themselves to that man was the greatest fortune and blessing in their lives.

    "Hahaha..." The bloody scene sent Lu Fan into fits ofughter. He stroked the Sun Sword Goddess, then ced Jian Chi''s head on the Crown Prince''s chest,ughing so hard he bent over double.

    "Come,e." Lu Fan no longer looked at the stunned Crown Prince, but turned and walked into the Peach Blossom Vi.

    Empress Zhao blushed deeply, following him first.

    Before entering, the Crown Prince caught a glimpse of her golden dress slipping off, revealing a body that once belonged to the dignified and beautiful consort of the White Emperor, now an eyesore to him.

    Next, the Crown Princess, Saintess Yao Xi, skipped along, not sparing the Crown Prince a nce, her face full of anticipation as she entered.

    Her dress turned into peach blossoms, and the body that once belonged to the Crown Prince was now firmly in Lu Fan''s grasp.

    The Lunar Demon Mistress, Combat Sovereign, Lady Fortune, Sun Sword Goddess... one by one, the Celestial Court''s beauties followed, giggling and blushing like maidens.

    In a daze, the Crown Prince found himself surrounded only by corpses, no living soul left beside him.

    The music from the Peach Blossom Vi reached his ears, drying up his tears.

    "Let me die! Let me die!" The Crown Prince bit off his tongue and shattered his eardrums, wailing in agony.

    He feared death, so he hid from the Great Mother and Yun Xiao, seeking refuge here. It was because of this fear that he had clung to life for so many years, sending countless mortals to die in his stead.

    But now, in this moment, he longed for death. For everything he had taken pride in was trampled underfoot, a torment worse than death itself.

    He finally understood that some forms of despair in this world were indeed more painful than death.

    He nearly bashed his head to a pulp, but even so, death eluded him.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Crown Prince had no idea how much time had passed. In his near-death state, he opened his bloodied eyes and saw a disheveled middle-aged man through the crimson haze.

    Grinning with yellowed teeth, the man looked at the Crown Prince and said with some emotion, ¡°All the men of your Celestial Court were ughtered by that freak of nature. From now on, I''ll have to bear the burden.¡±

    ¡°Ki-kill me!¡± The Crown Prince croaked with his broken throat, the words escaping in a rasp.

    ¡°What?¡± Lu Fan patted his face andughed, ¡°Don''t be like that, brother. If you''re not here to listen, even if I double my efforts, it would be boring.¡±n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Then he pinched the Crown Prince''s nose and chuckled, ¡°Besides, weren''t you the one most afraid of dying? Stay alive. Only the living have hope.¡±

    ¡°Fine...¡± The Crown Prince''s eyes widened, ring fiercely at Lu Fan, a cruel smile on his lips, ¡°I''ll live! I''ll live to see the day you die! Don''t be so smug, Lu Fan. I know who your nemesis is! It''s Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn. They''ve crippled you once already! No matter how triumphant you feel now, before true monsters, you''re just a clown performing tricks! What''s the point of breaking these married women''s bodies? If you have the guts, bring Divine Dawn here!¡±

    <em>SMACK! </em>Lu Fan pped him hard across the face, his brows furrowed, voice snarling, ¡°Fine! You wait! Just you wait!¡±

    ¡°Dear.¡±

    At Lu Fan''s first outburst, a pair of jade hands steadied him from behind. It was the impably dressed, elegant, and dignified Zhao Shi, the young Empress Dowager.

    She cast a cold nce at the Crown Prince and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need to get angry with this wretch. Bring out the All-Life Empress Gu, and we can proceed to the next step.¡±

    Upon hearing the words <em>All-Life Empress Gu</em>, the Crown Prince''s eyes widened in horror as he looked at the pair.

    ¡°Bring it out!¡± Lu Fan grabbed the Crown Prince''s mouth with one hand and thrust the other down his throat, fingers ripping through flesh and muscle until he reached the Crown Prince¡¯s lungs.

    With a violent yank, he extracted a writhing, white worm as thick as a baby¡¯s arm, its body covered with human-like faces.

    ¡°Heh.¡± Lu Fan tossed the Crown Prince to the ground, cradling the white worm in both hands, grinning, ¡°This little thing toys with the concept of life itself.¡±

    ¡°It will elevate you to endless heights,¡± Empress Zhao said, her beautiful eyes burning with fervor.

    ¡°Haha¡­¡± Lu Fan embraced her,ughing wildly as he held the worm, walking away into the distance.

    ¡°Hahaha¡­¡± The Crown Prince¡¯s face was covered in blood, his once handsome features now hideously distorted, yet hisughter grew louder, more open, and dripping with self-ridicule.

    ¡°So you¡¯re ying this game too? That¡¯s wonderful, really wonderful. I don¡¯t believe your end will be any better than mine!

    ¡°HAHAHA!¡± The Crown Princeughed so hard he coughed up blood, convulsing, but he wouldn¡¯t die. He gazed at the heavens with his bloodied eyes. Suddenly, tears streamed down his face, and he cried out in anguish.

    ¡°Father, now, your son believes in karma and retribution.¡±

 Chapter 716: Calamity and Violence

    Chapter 716: Cmity and Violence

    Turmoil had descended like a shroud in the Heavenly Pce. Clouds of smoke rolled and swirled, thick with the crimson mist of blood. Time itself seemed to halt when suddenly, the majestic Sacred Emperor Barrier fell silent and vanished, as if it had never been.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Its powers perhaps exhausted or perhaps undermined by other mysterious causes, the grand celestial formation''s failure was a boon to the rebelling forces of the Celestial Court¡ªthe Free Immortals, Great Dao Celestial Army, and Arbiters¡ªall surged towards the divinend.

    These ordinary Immortals, never before allowed to tread this exalted ground, raised their battle cries to the heavens as they marched through the dense smoke and blood mist into this mythical realm!

    But what awaited them was not and of flowering beauty and chirping birds, nor enchanting mists or dancing celestial maidens, but a scene of bloodied corpses, ruined structures, and lingering souls...

    "Overthrow the old order, support the new Emperor!"

    "Eliminate the Constetion Army! y the corrupt Immortals!"

    With hearts surging like tides, armies from every corner of the Great Dao Celestial Realm stormed into the Heavenly Pce, driven by a righteous fury as the truth was unveiled. The celestial order once dominated by the imperial lineage had crumbled in the hearts of the people.

    Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn, hailed as saviors by the masses, became beacons of boundless hope in the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Millions of Immortals rushed into the Heavenly Pce to support these paragons of virtue¡ªthe golden boy and jade girl of their age!They knew well the elite strength of the Constetion Army. Even so, every Immortal was ready toy down their lives for Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, and the new Celestial Court.

    However, as this fervent, death-defying army poured into the Heavenly Pce, they stood frozen in ce, their expressions a remarkable spectacle. For within this battlefield of ruins, there was no sign of the Constetion Army. Nor was there a single high-ranking celestial official in sight.

    Not one remained! A celestial battle of the ages had concluded before one side even arrived.

    A chilling realization dawned on all present.

    Before the ancient Taiwei Imperial Pce, a young man and woman in white stood atop the ghosts of the old Celestial Court. Before them, not a single adversary remained standing.

    From fiery bloodlust to breathless awe, the transition was instantaneous. Though their breath was short, the eyes of the rebel forces zed like fierce fires. Though many remained silent, those two youths had be the zing suns of their hearts!

    "They have purged the sinners of their foul essence..."

    Whispers of awe echoed through the millions-strong army, stirring countless souls. It was only then that most followers came to know that the young man was named Lu Yao.

    A Rank 9 Arbiter, risen from a frontier city, born of humble origins!

    After a brief silence, millions of Immortals encircled the divinend of the Celestial Court. With fervent zeal, they chanted two names that echoed like a storm of celestial fire meant to cleanse thend of its filth and forge a realm of justice anew.

    "Lu Yao! Divine Dawn!"

    These fervent cries, burning like a celestial inferno, set the whole Heavenly Pce aze with the promise of renewal.

    The atmosphere was charged.

    Yun Xiao had not anticipated that Gu Suwan and Yue Yin would arrive so swiftly to bear witness.

    Their presence was essential!

    Yun Xiao sought to change the world because there were still souls in it worth saving. Those like Lu An, humble Immortals who maintained a reverence for the divine, proved that hope still flickered in this world.

    Most were unsung, yet it was they, the humble and the meek, who truly upheld society!

    Yun Xiao was prepared to be their most lethal weapon, the sharpest sword in their fight.

    Of course, it wasn''t just the millions-strong army by Yun Xiao¡¯s side now, but also reinforcements from Naraka.

    Moon Fairy and the Great Mother had also traversed the heavens to stand here.

    Before the Taiwei Imperial Pce, under a deep shadow, Moon Fairy stepped forward to merge with Yun Xiao.

    "When human and demon unite, they be a new entity..."

    The Great Mother began to speak when she was cut off by Yun Xiao¡¯s icy re, causing her to snap her mouth shut involuntarily.

    In his fused state, Yun Xiao¡¯s divine presence became even more formidable.

    Above the Anima Tribtion Realm was the Night God Realm and Dawn God Realm, thest two steps of the Third Dao Tribtion.

    After reaching the Establishment Anima Tribtion Realm, Yun Xiao''s true self alone was unmatched in the Night God Realm.

    With his Blood Base and Divine Destion Physique, and the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit now enhanced, Yun Xiao could also easily deal with those in the Dawn God Realm.

    In the Celestial Court, there were only three figures in the Dawn God Realm! The White Emperor, Crown Prince, and Lu Fan¡ªall were here, within the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    ¡°Show the wound,¡± Yun Xiaomanded in a frosty tone to the Great Mother.

    The Great Mother nced several times at the little maid with twin ponytails standing beside her, half her size, and after a moment of confusion, she understood.

    Pulling aside her garment, she revealed a slender waist marked by a scar that writhed like a blood centipede, still emitting a putrid aura from its festering depths.

    Yun Xiao towered over his body double Moon Fairy. Yet, he hardly matched this eight-foot female corpse demon, aligning his eyes perfectly with her wound for easy examination.

    With a tearing sound, the skin below the corner of his eyes peeled back to reveal a pair of dull yellow orbs.

    "This looks like the work of that guy on the floor below me. It hasn''t broken out yet, but it''s separated itself into clumps of blood, parasitically living inside that old man," the Nian grumbled.

    "Like you with my body double?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not quite! Your body double almost devoured me! And that fiend hasn''t fully escaped either," the Nian ranted frantically.

    "The floor below you... So, the 17th floor, what is it?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    "I''ve seen it a few times; it''s a monkey, the embodiment of <em>Violence</em>, one of the Sins of Heaven." The Nian chuckled.

    "Sins of Heaven?" Yun Xiao probed further.

    "That staff houses 18 monsters, each a Sin of the Azure Heavens, forces of 18 types of sin. This monkey personifies <em>Violence</em>,''" the Nian exined.

    "And what sin do you embody?" Yun Xiao questioned.

    "I represent Cmity! Far superior!" the Nian boasted, oblivious to the fact that it had been reduced to nothing more than a pair of eyes observing the world. Its bloodline, now belonging to Moon Fairy, had beenpletely assimted by the Divine Destion Physique.

    As the Nian spoke, Yun Xiao gazed at the Great Mother''s wound, murmuring, "This wound refuses to heal because of the monkey''s bloodline permeating it..."

    Listening closely, Yun Xiao could even hear within the bloody gash a wild, ferocious, and hysterical will.

    "Embodiments of the 18 Sins of the Azure Heavens?" Yun Xiao smiled coldly.

    Inparison, the so-called <em>Cmity</em> seemed somewhat more benign than <em>Violence</em>. The Prison Warden Sigil showed little reaction to <em>Cmity</em> but sensed something in <em>Violence</em>.

    "Alright, you''ve submitted to me. Considering you were born from the incense offerings and carry some of themon folk''s wishes, I''ll give you a chance. I will remove your wound and the corpse stench entirely."

    Yun Xiao nced up at the tense Great Mother. She had felt the purifying power of the Prison Warden Sigil before, having once reached for it in a fit of overzealous ambition during her most fervent moment.

    Now, the Great Mother was markedly more subdued, bowing her head with a raspy voice, muttering a grateful, "Thank...¡±

    Hesitating on how to address Yun Xiao, Pale Revenant blinked and corrected her, "Immortal Yun."

    "Thank you, Immortal Yun."

    That small act of kindness dissolved the hysteria-driven hostility that the Great Mother had harbored towards Pale Revenant in an instant.

    "Do you dislike her?" Yun Xiao asked Pale Revenant bluntly.

    Pale Revenant shook her head and responded, "She¡¯s a corpse demon¡ªpitiful, frenzied, confused in will. To dislike her would be to dislike myself."

    "To dislike yourself..." A flicker of light appeared in the Great Mother''s murky eyes.

    In her most brutal moments, she often became aposite of many, a burst of umted resentments¡ªthe epitome of selflessness.

    The Great Mother finally recognized that Pale Revenant bore none of the negative traits typical of a corpse demon. She had gained power, yet she remained a human girl at heart.

    "I..." The Great Mother suddenly remembered something, her eyes reddening, tears streaming down as she murmured, "My name, my name is..."

    "Enough, no need to reminisce about your youth now." Yun Xiaoposed himself, holding the Prison Warden Sigil and pressing it against the abdomen of the Great Mother.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The impact sent him flying back.

    Sizzling sounds filled the air as the Great Mother cried out, falling to her knees, her body breaking out in a cold sweat...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 717: Yaksha Ancestor

    Chapter 717: Yaksha Ancestor

    The Great Mother''s abdomen seemed a pit without a bottom, from which surged an odor of decay that had gathered over countless years, like a fountain spewing forth from the earth itself.

    Even after the Prison Warden Sigil had cleansed much of it, the stench of death billowed up into the sky, mingling with flecks of blood that transformed into crimson, contorted faces resembling those from a dramatic y¡ªvivid, gruesome, and savage.

    Piercing shrieks filled the air, causing shivers down one¡¯s spine.

    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± The millions of Immortals murmured, their voices a buzzing chorus.

    ¡°Lu Yao must be subduing the corpse demon!¡±

    ¡°The Great Mother is a scourge of the Great Dao Celestial Realm. If he can subdue her, his virtue will be boundless!"

    ¡°He¡¯s already earned boundless merit by ying those who perpetrated the incense offerings!¡±

    Amidst this fervent discussion, the Great Mother, like a fountain, underwent a transformation that could only be described as a rebirth. Her previously pallid skin slowly took on the luster of polished jade. Her dull, waist-length hair turned ck, glossy, and supple. Her features¡ªeyes, ears, mouth, and nose¡ªbrightened and flushed with color, as if bathed in divine nectar. From her once foul-smelling body now emanated a subtle fragrance.

    Crucially, the bloody, centipede-like wound on her abdomen healed, leaving her stomach smooth and firm, the muscles defined with a delicate strength.¡°Ah¡­!¡±

    As Yun Xiao withdrew the Life Sigil in the final moment, the Great Mother let out a long, sonorous sigh, resonant like a great beast yet tender in its echo.

    She gasped violently, her red lips parted, her eyes red-rimmed and streaming with tears, her voice trembling as she spoke, "Ascension¡­ There were wicked Immortals wreaking havoc. I begged the heavenly Immortals to save us, to save... no, no, no..."

    Her greatest rage, long buried deep within her heart, was unleashed in that moment of rity, springing from the depths of her bitterness.

    "So this was your deepest, earliest resentment¡ªyour core being is that of an ascender from the mortal realm," Yun Xiao remarked, somewhat surprised.

    He had heard that the Great Mother''s creation was tied to incense offerings, and had been somewhat skeptical¡ªafter all, the tale was too brutal to easily ept. Yet everything she now revealed served as proof.

    "Exalted Immortal Yun..."

    The Great Mother''s tall, delicate frame shuddered, her tear-filled eyes gazing upon the pure, wless young man in white before her. Her voice quivered as she bowed deeply and said, "Thank you for pulling me from the mire of my resentments. I have nothing to offer in return, except..."

    "Enough," Yun Xiao interrupted her gratitude, "Your rage was born from the incense offerings, and I''ve in Immortals over it. We end up in the same ce by different paths, bound by fate, with no need for thanks. Now, to extinguish the sins of the incense offerings and restore peace to themon folk, only one step remains. Your corpse energy is purified, stronger than before. If you wish to do something, assist me."

    "I would face a thousand deaths without hesitation," the Great Mother said, her lips tight, her eyes intense and clear, no longer clouded but as pure as those who had ascended to the Celestial Court, ready to face death.

    Yun Xiao gave her another look, his heart touched by pity for people like her. The Celestial Court was once their faith. When they exhausted everything to seek help here, they ended up as mere fodder for that faith, first to the Gu, then to the horses.

    The merciless trampling of their lifelong beliefs and ideals was a profound tragedy.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The Great Mother bore so much of such anger and grief; she reminded Yun Xiao of those pitiful ascenders who had entered the Great Dao Celestial Realm with him.

    "What is your name?" Yun Xiao asked, pursing his lips.

    The Great Mother paused, a name long sealed away slowly bubbling up from the depths of her memory. With a trembling voice, she opened her red lips and said, "Bai... Susu."

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but cover his forehead with a hand, ncing at the pale figure beside her andmenting wryly, "With that name, it seems you were destined to cling to me!"

    "Hmm?" The Great Mother was puzzled.

    "My real name is Bai Youyou." The little maid with the twin ponytails smiled gently, clearly delighted at having found apanion. She held only reverence and admiration for Yun Xiao, with no trace of romantic affection. So, her joy came solely from seeing more and more people join in following him.

    "Youyou and Susu, the two pale corpse demons," Yun Xiao muttered, somewhat epting the formidable demon before him. After all, she could serve well as a shield.

    The only thing he found hard to tolerate was the sight of the Great Mother standing beside him, with Pale Revenant looking like her daughter¡ªone tall and striking, the other small and endearing. The contrast between them was indeed striking.

    Just as Yun Xiao was feeling satisfied with his creation, a cool voice came from behind, "If she''d been a male corpse demon, you''d have in him on the spot, wouldn''t you?"

    Turning around, Yun Xiao saw Divine Dawn pouting, clearly a bit displeased. He never hid his human and male <em>ws</em>. Nodding, he admitted, "Perhaps. From my perspective, girls are indeed more pleasing to the eye."

    Divine Dawn was taken aback by his honesty, leaving her momentarily at a loss for words.

    "Let''s get moving," she said.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed slightly as he nodded, "Hmm..."

    He could feel the looming threat of the Taiwei Imperial Pce. Now, with Moon Fairy fused back with him and the addition of the Great Mother, supported by millions of ordinary Immortals ready to bear witness... it was time!

    "Lil Xi."

    Yun Xiao nced again at the girl in the white dress beside him, his heart steady.

    Because he could sense that she was now Chen Xi, a woman of immense strategy and courage. Although she was the incarnation of transcending cmity from the lowest realm, she was the one Yun Xiao respected the most.

    With her presence, an inexplicable peace settled over him.

    Perhaps foreseeing the uing tempest, even the air fell into a hush.

    Yun Xiao looked towards the Taiwei Imperial Pce, then began to move forward, his eyes resolute, marching towards thest bastion of sin in the Celestial Court!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Divine Dawn, now with the Chen Xi personality in control, dragged the two massive Primordial Doom Stars beside her. Her eyes, devoid of any thoughts of gender, zed with the tumult of battle, the spirit of camaraderie, a heart that loathed evil, and a supreme sense of mission!

    Behind them, the twin pale corpse demons, their gazes firm, followed the man and woman in silent procession.

    This group, though seeminglyposed of just four, actually included Moon Fairy and the War Princess¡ªsix warriors in total. Yun Xiao had cultivated this formidable force over time, and now they were all in ce!

    Their deadly intent stirred the heavens, igniting a fire-like fervor among the millions of Immortals.

    "To vanquish the wicked emperor, to execute heaven''s will!"

    Such a rallying cry could be shouted by anyone, but when it came from those with clear consciences, it carried more power and impact, constantly reverberating through the heavens!

    The atmosphere was intensely charged and tense.

    In a blink, the four had positioned themselves above the Taiwei Imperial Pce. Even without striking, the pce walls, covered in borate magical formations, trembled.

    "It''s here!" the Nian suddenly spoke coldly.

    As it spoke, Yun Xiao could already feel a fierce and violent aura bursting forth from within the Taiwei Imperial Pce, like the earlier surge of necrotic air, tinting the pce with a bloody hue.

    "What¡¯s the name of that cellmate of yours downstairs?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Ancient Xiao, it calls itself the Yaksha Ancestor. It''s a ghost-faced monkey, always howling, drives me crazy!" the Nian replied, ring ahead.

    The Nian''s gaze told Yun Xiao that despite its contempt, it still held considerable wariness for this notorious cellmate.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Taiwei Imperial Pce, once the pearl of the Celestial Court, was stripped of its sacred and exalted fa?ade. From within, it burst outward, the opulent and elegant pce tiles and ss shattering into fragments and dust, exploding in all directions!

    Billows of thick smoke rose, and malice filled the air!

    Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, and all the onlookers fixed their eyes on the scene unfolding before them. From within the churning dust of the Taiwei Imperial Pce, a hunched figure sat, slowly raising its head while leaning on a blood-red staff!

    Blood-red hair and eyes once again tainted the view.

    But this time, what struck the hearts of all was the sight of the White Emperor, his face half-human, half a vivid, grotesque, and fierce ck and red monkey face. This face, somewhat theatrical, bore an eye with the word <em>Yaksha</em> imprinted on it.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>His emergence sent a brutal and cruel aura sweeping across the Celestial Court, causing the hearts of millions of Immortals to tremble. They involuntarily gasped, stepping back, their scalps tingling.

    The White Emperor slowly stood up, supporting himself with the sanguine staff of the Immortal Asylum. His body trembled, but his overwhelming malice still chilled the bravest souls.

    <em>SWOOSH! </em>He swept his gaze across the sky, and as he looked at each face that opposed him, the corner of his human face seemed to curl into a smirk, while the demonic monkey face on his right side bared half of its crimson fangs in a snarl!

    "The mighty White Emperor of the Celestial Court, half-human, half-monkey, reveals his true beastly heart to all. Today, the heroes of the Great Dao Celestial Realm have gathered to judge you, to give sce to the troubled mortals," Divine Dawn said with icy eyes and a grand tone, "At this point, what more can you say?"

    "All heroes of the Great Dao Celestial Realm¡­" the White Emperor covered his face with one hand and chuckled darkly, "Just a bunch of weaklings who can''t control their destiny or break their chains, only capable ofining about the circumstances, thriving only when fed with lies."

    His <em>truthful</em> words disyed a disdainful view of the elites toward the grassroots, instantly infuriating the millions of Immortals, their nostrils smoking with rage.

    "Backed into a corner and still defiant at death''s door!"

    No amount of cursing could vent their indignation, only action!

    And at that moment, the White Emperor''s gaze finally rested on Yun Xiao.

    "You are the root of this cmity¡­"

    Baring his crimson fangs, he gripped the staff of the Immortal Asylum, his eyes zing with murderous intent like a volcano about to erupt!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a roar like a giant ape shaking the heavens, the White Emperor charged towards Yun Xiao!

 Chapter 718: Mortal Dust Calamity Dragon!

    Chapter 718: Mortal Dust Cmity Dragon!

    The White Emperor, unlike the Crown Prince, was supreme from the outset in the annals of the Great Dao Celestial Realm. A supreme Martial Monarch, unrivaled in battle, his reign marked the zenith of the Celestial Court''s military might. He was the true Emperor of all Immortals.

    Now, half-possessed by the Yaksha Ancestor and empowered by the bloodline of this Sin of Heaven, his powers had surged to unprecedented heights. Hisbined imperial and ferocious might was so overwhelming that with just a flick of his hand, millions of Immortals were sent scattering in terror.

    Such was this Emperor of mortals and Immortals alike. Without another word, he struck decisively, targeting Yun Xiao first and foremost. Clearly, he knew who posed the greatest threat among his foes.

    Yun Xiao suddenly felt an immense oppressive force crashing down on him, making his pupils contract in shock.

    Before him, the sky seemed to split into two distinct halves. On the left shimmered the tinum-coloured Imperial Arts of the Celestial Court. On the right roared the tumultuous fury of a Sin of Heaven.

    In him, the essence of righteousness and evil merged, creating a stunning visual impact.

    "He possesses the Immortal Asylum, but he''s not just the Immortal Asylum..." Yun Xiao was certain that, at this moment, the White Emperor was fully conscious and not merely a puppet.

    With his right arm turned a sanguine red, the White Emperor grasped the crimson Immortal Asylum, while his left hand waved through the air, summoning four grand celestial treasures that arrayed above his head, radiating divine brilliance.

    "The Seal of Heaven, Tower of Boundless Skies, Bell of Shattering Cosmos, and Scroll of Vermillion!" The millions of Immortals furrowed their brows, their hearts pounding.These four celestial treasures were the foundation of the Celestial Court, a legacy passed down through the imperial lineage for eons. Each artifact was known for its ancient and storied past. Who among them would not recognize these?

    They were all supreme celestial treasures of the Upper Divine Heaven grade!

    In the presence of such supreme artifacts, celestial treasures like the Boundary Defining Divine Needle were mere trash.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The golden celestial seal shaped like a giant dragon, the multicolored ss tower, the ancient white bell, and a scroll dark as obsidian illuminated the skies above the divinend of the Celestial Court.

    The four supreme treasures drew together the auspicious energy of the Azure Dragon, Phoenix, Qilin, and ck Tortoise, like four guardian beasts defending the Heavenly Pce, their righteous divine might dominating all directions.

    With the Immortal Asylum in one hand and the four grand celestial treasures in the other, the White Emperor was the epitome of a perfect celestial warrior... but he was not finished yet!

    His most famed skill was not these artifacts, but his dual mastery of swords and sigils!

    As the four celestial treasures unleashed their power, in the White Emperor''s palm materialized a pure golden Sword Soul. This Sword Soul transformed into a Flying Sword, wrapped in what seemed like 100 five-wed golden dragons. Each dragon was in fact a Sword Prison.

    A hundred Sword Prisons! This was the true number one sword of the Celestial Court, the Soaring Sword Soul!

    And the White Emperor was not done yet. In the center of his brow, a white Life Sigil formed, pure and radiant with sacred light. It blossomed into four divine flowers, which then adhered themselves to the four grand celestial treasures. Instantly, these artifacts were imbued with a sanctity that was unmistakably meant to drive out demons and evil.

    This Supreme White Sigil, transformed into the four divine flowers, also contained 100 Rune Prisons, unmatched across the heavens.

    "Supreme White Overpowers, Seals Heaven, Shatters Cosmos, Vermilion Scriptures of the Boundless Sky!"

    This scripture described the revered White Emperor of Taiwei. As a Sword, Inscription, and Martial Immortal, he represented the pinnacle of the Celestial Court''s power.

    Before the scandal of the incense offerings was uncovered, he was the faith of mortals and Immortals alike.

    Now, the White Emperor wielded the Immortal Asylum as well.

    His actions, unveiled all at once, had a clear purpose: to swiftly cut through the chaos, annihte the four challengers, reim hismand over heaven and earth, and protect his dynasty and reign.

    Of course, such fierce and decisive behavior wasrgely influenced by the <em>Violence</em> represented by the Yaksha Ancestor, a Sin of Heaven.

    Though violent, the White Emperor''s movements were methodical. He first used the Life Sigil to enhance the four celestial treasures, boosting their synergy and control.

    Yet, in the next instant, instead of attacking Yun Xiao with these empowered tools, he used the Seal and Bell in one group, and the Scroll and Tower in another, targeting Yun Xiao¡¯s allies behind him¡ªPale Revenant and the Great Mother.

    These two female demons, though in human form, were mountainous beasts in essence, brimming with explosive power. The White Emperor was well aware of their threat.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The golden Seal of Heaven transformed into a massive mountain, crushing down upon the Great Mother, while the Bell of Shattering Cosmos vibrated through space, creating rippling tears aimed at her visage.

    Empowered by the Supreme White Sigil, these celestial treasures met the Great Mother with purifying, incinerating force, presenting a severe threat to corpse demons.

    However, the Great Mother sensed the danger but did not experience it.

    "Why?" she pondered briefly, then realized with a gleam of joy in her heart.

    "Immortal Yun''s purification has cleansed the corpse energy from my body. So, I have no corpse energy, only the pure power of a corpse demon!"

    So, the Supreme White Sigil could no longer restrain her.

    "Immortal Yun''s purification brings transcendence and liberation, while the White Emperor¡¯s purges with destruction and oppression."

    Though a demon, the Great Mother could clearly feel the difference between the two. This distinction between Yun Xiao and the White Emperor was profound in her mind; the former inspired goodness, while thetter used righteousness and morality to oppress the weak for his own glory.

    Feeling the warmth from Yun Xiao¡¯s benevolence, her heart surged with boundless conviction. And as a mortal from the mortal realm and a once-hopeful ascender, it also harbored profound rage and intent to y the White Emperor.

    With a resounding boom, the Great Mother¡¯s lithe eight-foot frame surged skyward, her fists pounding like giant beasts upon the Seal of Heaven, causing a shockwave explosion!

    This punch marked themencement of the final battle.

    Meanwhile, Pale Revenant faced the Vermilion Scroll and the Tower of Boundless Skies, generating explosive shocks. Clearly more agile and fluid than the Great Mother, the little maid moved with grace and charm.

    On the other hand, the Great Mother, whose towering legs stood taller than Pale Revenant, disyed pure raw power. She smashed the Bell of Shattering Cosmos, sending this celestial treasure soaring tens of thousands of meters into the air.

    "The White Emperor clearly aims to use these four celestial treasures to suppress the corpse demons, preventing them from aiding me," Yun Xiao thought as the two corpse demons and the four celestial treasures battled fiercely, achieving the White Emperor¡¯s purpose.

    Without pausing, the White Emperor, holding the sanguine Immortal Asylum, took strides of 1,000 meters and smashed it down in front of Yun Xiao!

    The Immortal Asylum emitted a piercing beastly roar, like a crimson world descending, shattering the cosmos and quaking the earth where it struck.

    "Die!"

    The voice mixed with imperial authority and beastly screams emanated from the White Emperor''s half-human, half-monkey face, contorted in a savage grin right before Yun Xiao.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao swiftly extended his hand and astonishingly caught the sanguine Immortal Asylum barehanded.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ground beneath him shattered, creating endless web-like fissures.

    The White Emperor¡¯s face twisted in disbelief as he growled, "You can catch it barehanded?"

    A pair of dull yellow eyes cracked open on Yun Xiao''s face. The Nian sneered back at the White Emperor.

    "Foolish monkey, do you think the Immortal Asylum belongs only to you? I have a part in it too!"

    "What, you''re still alive? Weren''t you devoured, you starving dog?" The White Emperor sneered back, his right arm forcefully pulling the Immortal Asylum back from Yun Xiao''s grasp.

    This proved his stronger control over the Immortal Asylum.

    However, as the White Emperor reimed the Immortal Asylum, Yun Xiao was not idle. His body surged with violet dragon patterns as the Prison Warden Sigil, in the Dao Dragon Form, enveloped himpletely!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The power of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood was also amplified by the Prison Warden Sigil

    <em>Mortal Dust Cmity Dragon!</em>

    Without a word, Yun Xiao pressed his palm against the White Emperor''s face!

    A crimson dragon head erupted from his palm, biting into the White Emperor''s monkey face as the refining power of the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity surged, infiltrating the White Emperor¡¯s forehead.

    "KYAAAH!" The White Emperor let out a soul-tearing howl, filled with shock and disbelief.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In a desperate move, he thrust Yun Xiao away with the Immortal Asylum, stumbling backward, shattering the ground for hundreds of meters!

    <em>RIP! </em>In this violent separation, Yun Xiao tore off half of the White Emperor¡¯s face!

    The White Emperor held onto his bloodied face. Through the cracks between his fingers, the eyeball of the Yaksha Ancestor now appeared even more grotesquely visible, looking as though it would fall out of its socket.

    He red at Yun Xiao, a roar of rage escaping him, his murderous intent skyrocketing.

    ¡°The Yaksha Ancestor didn''t escape the Immortal Asylum, it merely invaded the White Emperor¡¯s body with its blood essence, and my Mortal Dust Blood Cmity can refine it.¡±<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughtsn/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 719: Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique!

    Yun Xiao was merely testing the waters. The ferocity of the White Emperor and Yakasha Ancestor signified how deeply the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity had wounded the two.

    Yun Xiao understood that refinement was the only way to halt the Yaksha Ancestor, but before that could happen, the White Emperor had to be gravely injured, even killed, to create an opportunity for refinement.

    Clearly, the White Emperor now recognized this threat, and his response would only grow more ferocious.

    His rage burned like celestial fire, scorching the millions of soldiers beneath him.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Upon witnessing Yun Xiao literally tear through the White Emperor''s facade and gain the upper hand in their first confrontation, the fear of the millions of Immortals was suppressed, morphing into frenzy.

    "Lu Yao! Lu Yao!"

    "Execute the will of heaven!"

    Their deafening cries overpowered the roars of the White Emperor and Yaksha Ancestor.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In the next instant, the two Primordial Doom Stars plummeted from the sky, aiming for the White Emperor¡¯s head.Divine Dawn, previously repelled by the White Emperor''s Soaring Sword Soul, returned to the fray, her presence marked by thunder and mes as the Primordial Doom Stars illuminated the battlefield.

    "Rebellious girl!"

    His ability to utter those words meant the White Emperor still controlled his body, although his ferocity increasingly dominated. The ghost-faced monkey''s visage kept reappearing, even spreading across the rest of his torn face, making him appear even more grotesque.

    In his fury, he wielded the power of the Immortal Asylum to st away the Primordial Doom Stars. Then, with bloodshot eyes, he caught Divine Dawn mid-recoil, his howl chilling, "I granted you flesh and nurtured your talents. Yet, you kill your own brother and attempt tomit patricide. Heaven cannot bear such acts. I shall execute you first!"

    As his deration echoed, his golden Flying Sword, entwined with hundreds of dragons, burst forth.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In the air, the sword transformed, splitting into hundreds of golden rays, forming a vast sword formation that spelled out the word <em>Emperor</em>.

    This was the supreme art of the imperial lineage, belonging in the Divine Heaven grade, known as the Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique. This technique, said toy waste to millions in a single wrathful strike from an Emperor, formed a formation from a lone sword that could obliterate all in its path.

    This sword, bristling with killing intent, thundered through heaven and earth.

    "Who allowed you to harm her?"

    Just as the Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique was unleashed, Yun Xiao suddenly appeared before the White Emperor!

    With both hands grasping the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, Yun Xiao wielded the sword like a wheel, spinning it to conjure a sea of azure lightning!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique suddenly prated this azure lightning ocean, each golden de twisting and turning beneath the thunderous azure mire.

    "Hmm?"

    The technique was blocked by Yun Xiao, which wasn''t much of an issue, but at the same moment, the White Emperor felt a lethal threat.

    Whirling around, he saw the golden spirit form of Yun Xiao materialize behind him, brandishing a golden astral sword.

    In the same manner, Yun Xiao''s spirit spun the Palm Sword, conjuring a vortex of spiritual lightning that pressed down upon the White Emperor''s crown.

    <em>Spirit Pursuit</em>, Twin Soul Strike!

    The White Emperor¡¯s expression shifted slightly, anger turning his scowl even more fearsome. A golden radiance suddenly burst from him, forming a golden shield covered in dragon scales to block this tempestuous soul-electric onught.

    <em>BOOOM! </em>In the next instant, the Primordial Pagoda smashed directly onto the White Emperor¡¯s head, cracking his skull and causing him to bleed profusely, a testament to Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn''s impable coordination.

    This was a true battle for life and death, where even an extra word or a single syble could disrupt the rhythm of deadly assaults. Only lightning-fast strikes and blocks mattered!

    <em>KLANG! </em>Enraged, the White Emperor, using the power of the Immortal Asylum, sent the Primordial Pagoda flying away!

    Yet, in the very next moment, the two massive Primordial Doom Stars converged from either side.

    "Rebellious girl!" The White Emperor roared as he rolled forward without regard for his image.

    <em>DONG! </em>The two Primordial Doom Stars collided, nearly ttening the White Emperor into a patty.

    Such a harrowing scene unfolded, with the opponent''s tactics emerging one after another, their coordination devilishly precise. Even the White Emperor in the Dawn God Realm was driven to a frenzy.

    He had not anticipated that even with the Yaksha Ancestor and the Immortal Asylum at his side, he still hadn''t finished off these two youngsters!

    He''d normally have no problem killing Divine Dawn, but Yun Xiao¡¯s protection was too impable!

    Moreover, with the four great celestial treasures and his Supreme White Sigil being held up by the two corpse demons, he found himself on the back foot.

    "Yaksha! Yaksha!" the White Emperor roared, sping the Immortal Asylum, channeling copious amounts of granr blood into his body. His visage transformed visibly into a crimson ghost-faced monkey, his body aze with a blood fire, sweeping the heavens with a violent sin-like force.

    "Die!" The White Emperor, furious beyond measure at Divine Dawn, found that his assaults with the Immortal Asylum had little effect on Yun Xiao due to the presence of the Nian.

    In a sh of lightning, he redirected the Immortal Asylum''s lethal intent towards Divine Dawn.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Immortal Asylum unleashed a sanguine beam, a sheer force of death, which Yun Xiao judged could pierce through the Celestial Court itself the instant it appeared.

    "Huh?" Divine Dawn shivered as the shadow of death enveloped her. Born of fate, she felt her impending doom profoundly¡ªa helpless, tearful surrender.

    In that critical moment, a white figure suddenly appeared before her.

    "You..." Her beautiful eyes trembled. There he stood, her protector, his back to her, ck hair billowing, hismitment simple yet resolute, as if he was trading his life for hers.

    "No!" Her heart quivered, tears suddenly streaming, as she screamed in hysteria.

    "No, what!? I''ll be fine! Just watch!" Yun Xiao, while speaking, set aside his azure sword and wrapped the Prison Warden Sigil around him with the power of the Dao Dragon, his hands moving swiftly to conjure a dim yellow vortex at his chest.

    This was the demon magic of the Nian, enhanced by the Divine Destion Physique and infused with Yun Xiao¡¯s own modifications and Moon Fairy¡¯s demon magic, God Devourer!

    <em>Primordial Cmity!</em>

    <em>BUZZ! </em>With ease, Yun Xiao''s hands danced through the spatial vortex, swiftly forming a swirling mix of silver and dim yellow. Before him, it opened wide, swallowing the death beam from the Immortal Asylum!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Primordial Cmity shattered, and the death beam, redirected by Yun Xiao, shot upwards into the sky, instantly piercing the Great Dao Celestial Realm. The sky was cloaked in red!

    In this moment of drastic change, Yun Xiao demonstrated his ability to adapt and confront thebined assault of the White Emperor and Yaksha Ancestor, his actions as unfathomable as the deep sea.

    This was what one might truly call a monster!

    "This guy..."

    Even the girl in the white dress, having narrowly escaped a dire fate, had tears of joy in her eyes.

    Her three hearts, usually so different, now trembled in unison, forcibly fused together by the emotions stirred by this young man!

    The more she was moved, the more the White Emperor was driven mad.

    "What¡­ are <em>you!?</em>"

    The White Emperor clutched the Immortal Asylum, his face which had now morphed to that of the Yaksha Ancestor twisted in frenzy.

    "Born of heaven and earth, I will right all wrongs," Yun Xiao dered, his Flying Sword flicking forth in a burst of azure light, instantly splitting into 1,000 sword beams in the air, forming five words!

    "Yun Xiao loves Divine Dawn..."

    To the White Emperor, these words were a double strike of devastation. First, because Yun Xiao had professed his love for his rebellious daughter; second, because this was his own Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique¡ªaltered into the <em>Yun Xiao Loves Divine Dawn</em> Sword Technique!

    And there was more! The White Emperor spun around only to see Yun Xiao''s spirit behind himunch another Flying Sword attack, forming five words with another 1,000 sword beams, sandwiching him in a dual sword array assault.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The White Emperor had no choice but to recall his four grand celestial treasures, but in that instant, the two corpse demons reacted too swiftly, transforming into two mountains of flesh and blood, temporarily trapping them!

    "Huh?!" This lightning-fast miscalction allowed the dual soul-destroying Flying Swords to shatter the White Emperor''s defenses, ravaging his limbs and instantly slicing through many bones, even piercing his spirit!

    "AGHHH!" This was the first time the White Emperor had been grievously wounded; he knelt, screaming in agony.

    <em>KLANG! </em>Yun Xiao appeared beside him in an instant, not giving him a chance, wielding the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, swiftly severing the hand that controlled the Immortal Asylum, and then forcefully stomping down the Immortal Asylum!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Divine Dawn descended from the sky, pressing the White Emperor down and delivering a flurry of over 100 thunderous fiery punches to his face!

    Her fury and righteousness were all in these <em>delicate</em> punches.

    The White Emperor¡¯s skull was tough; it took thousands of punches before it finally burst open. Throughout, he red at his daughter, furiously cursing, while Divine Dawn, without hesitation, obliterated his teeth and tongue!

    He was now utterly ruined.

    While Divine Dawn unleashed her fury, Yun Xiao stood by, severing the White Emperor''s limbs and piercing his Dantian with a sword!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A torrent of Dawn God Realm celestial power burst forth like a fountain, mingling with the White Emperor''s agonizing moans.

    In this moment, the understanding of the two heroes wasplete¡ªthey no longer wished to hear his repentance; it was utterly meaningless. Only the most tragic death could atone for everything!

    "Lil Xi..."

    <em>BOOM! </em>Hisst, murky cry was obliterated by Divine Dawn with a direct smash.

 Chapter 720: Mutt and Monkey, Cellmates Once More!

    The scene was brutal, a grim mockery of filial piety and paternal love.

    "You were mistaken about one thing..." Divine Dawn''s voice trailed as she finally ceased her assault, standing tall with resolve. "The flesh and blood of your daughter, you turned to ashes by your own hands. I owe you nothing now, nor do I share any bond with you."

    With that deration, she rose to her feet, staring down at the dismembered form of the White Emperor, headless and limbless, her gaze filled with sudden rity.

    "It''s not over yet!"

    Yun Xiao swiftly moved, pulling her behind him. In that instant, the White Emperor''s body was engulfed in a mist of blood, unleashing a ferocity more violent than before. Every drop of his blood screamed sharply in the air.

    "Kill!" He roared, no longer in the White Emperor''s voice, but that of the Yaksha Ancestor.

    With a sizzling noise, a blood-red ghost-faced monkey head sprouted from the severed neck of the White Emperor. Composed entirely of blood, its face was grotesquely fierce.

    Simultaneously, limbs covered in blood-soaked fur emerged amidst thick smoke.

    "Good heavens! That stupid monkey is breaking outpletely!" the Nian eximed, eyes wide with surprise on Yun Xiao''s face."It escapedpletely into the White Emperor''s body?" Yun Xiao furrowed his brow.

    At a moment of wary contemtion, the Nian sneered coldly, "I see now! I was wondering why he seemed so weak despite breaking outpletely. Turns out he turned all his blood into this form!"

    "Like self-muttion to escape, weakening himself considerably?" Yun Xiao thought quickly.

    "Exactly! He needs time to recover, which you didn''t give him," the Nian snickered, relishing the misfortune of his old cellmate.

    It was a typical mindset of the small and petty-minded. Having failed at its own escape attempt, the Nian also refused to allow others to seed either. So, it shared this crucial insight with Yun Xiao, allowing him to know exactly what to do!

    And that was to strike the Yaksha Ancestor while it was down!

    "Use that technique of yours to refine him, consume his bloodline now, or you''ll lose the chance!" the Nian roared.

    "Starved mutt, you''re as good as dead!" The newly formed monkey head on the White Emperor fumed with rage.

    The Yaksha Ancestor''s host body was crippled, and it was greatly weakened after just breaking out of the Immortal Asylum. Never in its entire life had it been in such a miserable state!

    No matter its ferocity, Yun Xiao wasted no words.

    Without a second thought, he pressed down hard, mping the ghost-faced monkey''s head. His hands erupted with Mortal Dust Devil Blood, seeping into the grotesque form.

    With a sizzle, the ghost-faced monkey''s head smoked and burned away.

    The White Emperor struggled violently, unleashing the ferocity of a behemoth as his piercing screams echoed throughout the Heavenly Pce.

    "Come!"

    At Yun Xiao''smand, the Great Mother and Pale Revenant positioned themselves on either side of the White Emperor. Though both appeared human, their strength was that of mountains of flesh and oceans of blood, pressing down upon him.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Divine Dawn joined the fray, melding the Primordial Pagoda and Primordial Doom Stars into one, pinning the White Emperor beneath them, his chest caving in under the immense pressure.

    "Die! Die!" Even restrained in that manner, the White Emperor and Yaksha Ancestor roared, their struggles shaking the earth, causing tremors throughout the Heavenly Pce.

    The millions of Immortals watched, breath held, not yet daring to celebrate as they witnessed this brutal scene.

    "If you''re a Sin of Azure Heaven, then don''t think of escaping to harm others. Just quietly enter another prison," Yun Xiao said coldly, his hands pressing down on the ghost-faced monkey''s head.

    "Presumptuous child! What are you to harm us? Withdraw now, or your descendants will suffer forever!" the ghost-faced monkey''s head shrieked pitifully.

    "You''re too noisy, monkey." Yun Xiao, far from frightened, merely smiled and said, "Do you know why I can refine you? Because it''s my destiny to rule over you. Continue your resistance; I want to see your despair and breakdown when you realize you''re powerless."

    Though his words might have seemed ordinary, paired with the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, they were lethally effective against the Yaksha Ancestor transformed into blood.

    It felt vividly as its own blood and talents were being dissected and absorbed, like water being drunk down by Yun Xiao, leaving no room for resistance.

    "EEK EEK! GYAAAH!!" It howled in fury, the White Emperor''s body and its own powerunching an assault on Yun Xiao, but the man and the two corpse demons beside him firmly subdued the White Emperor''s failing form.

    A thousand, ten thousand attempts at resisting, all lead to the weakening of the Yaksha Ancestor''s blood and power.

    Having desperately transformed its essence into liquid to escape the Immortal Asylum, the Yaksha Ancestor encountered its worst nightmare at its most vulnerable: someone wielding the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity.

    No words could capture the Yaksha Ancestor''s misfortune. As it raged and shrieked, with each loss of essence, it fell into real despair, confusion, pain, and sorrow.

    "Save your breath; a short pain is better than a long one. For you, the pain is brief, but I''ve endured the worst, slowly being eaten away by a parasite!" As the battle neared its climax, the Nian momentarily shed its schadenfreude for a guise of sympathetic pity.

    The Yaksha Ancestor, too, had fallen to such straits¡ªit foundpanionship in misery, aforting thought that was only possible because of the Yaksha Ancestor''s misfortune. Without disaster, there would be no pity from it.

    "Heh heh..."

    When the Yaksha Ancestor realized it was thoroughly refined and utterly powerless to resist, its heart-wrenching screams morphed into hysterical, despairingughter. In thatughter hid immense regret and sorrow, emotions that overshadowed its inherent brutality.

    A creature born of violence had its spirit crushed once more.

    Backed into a corner, the Yaksha Ancestor leapt from the frying pan into the fire,nding squarely on Yun Xiao''s chopping block¡ªa situation that would break the spirit of any being.

    "Though it has transformed into blood, and I''ve refined its lineage with the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, its essence remains that of a beast with a fleshly talent. It''s more fitting to absorb it using the Divine Destion Physique," Yun Xiao murmured, half to himself and half to the War Princess.

    The Mortal Dust Devil Spirit was a fusion of him and the War Princess, and even if her soul had no authority in this partnership, maintaining some level of consciousness was still beneficial.

    "Do as you wish; I''d rather not harbor a monkey on my person," the War Princess responded weakly, her voice tinged with the haze of sleep.

    "It''s hardly a monkey now, merely a pair of monkey eyes at most."

    As Yun Xiao transferred all the blood essence and inherent talents of the Yaksha Ancestor into his Divine Destion Physique, the creature ended up like the Nian, reduced to nothing but a pair of eyes.

    These eyes, like the final mark of a Sin of Azure Heaven, couldn''t bepletely absorbed. They weren''t troublesome to keep, and might even be usefulter on, if he needed their skills to develop new techniques. Yun Xiao naturally couldn''t be bothered to deal with them further.

    <em>RIP! </em>In the moment it all ended, Yun Xiao''s forehead suddenly split open, revealing two crimson, ferocious, and savage eyes, each marked with the word <em>Yaksha</em>. Including the yellow, vortex-like eyes of the Nian on his cheeks, Yun Xiao''s face now sported six eyes altogether.

    The highest pair of eyes was crimson and ferocious. The middle pair was ck and pure. The lowest pair was yellow and cunning. Even with such oddity, the face of the Creator Immortal remained undiminished in beauty, which was telling.

    "Truly ugly."

    Yun Xiao was certainly notfortable with this arrangement. These Sin Beasts were better left to Moon Fairy. But for now, necessity demanded he make do with the Divine Destion Physique.

    "Stop gawking, pull them back or I''ll do it for you," Yun Xiaomanded.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    His forehead''s crimson eyes gazed upon everything, almost dripping blood¡­ But in the end, the Yaksha Ancestor epted its fate, closing its eyes.

    It had escaped from one prison only to find itself in another, with even less hope of escape. Rage undoubtedly roared within it, and in its dreams, it killed Yun Xiao.

    "Better ept it soon! At least in this prison of flesh, we can still wander around and see the world," the Nian chuckled.

    "Get lost!"

    The Yaksha Ancestor despised it above all and showed no kindness.

    "Absorbing the essence of the Yaksha Ancestor''s bloodline, the Divine Destion Physique''s potential and immediate benefits will improve, even barely holding its own to my true self that has the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit..."

    If they were of equal cultivation now, in terms ofbat power, Yun Xiao''s true self was stronger than Moon Fairy, which was stronger than the War Princess.

    The Moon Fairy body double might shine even brighter now.

    The Night God Realm was just the beginning. Having won this battle, Yun Xiao was prepared for another all-out breakthrough and powering up.

    The Yaksha Ancestor had utterly failed and copsed.

    "You can release him now."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 721: Spiritual Relationship!

    Chapter 721: Spiritual Rtionship!

    After Yun Xiao gave the word, Divine Dawn, the Great Mother, and Pale Revenant finally released their grips on the White Emperor.

    Before themy the shattered, blood-streaked form of the White Emperor¡ªhis body seemed to have reached its demise, decaying and shriveling into nothingness. Bones and flesh withered away, turning into white dust.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t even have time to grasp the marrow from his sword bones.

    This showed just how deeply aged he truly was.

    "Is he dead?" Divine Dawn asked, her voice trembling slightly as she gazed at the crumbling corpse withplex eyes.

    "Not entirely." Yun Xiao extended his hand, pulling the lingering spirit from within the remnants of the White Emperor. It was indeed him. Slowly lifting his head, his dim gaze met Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn. Free from the control of the Yaksha Ancestor, his spirit appeared drained, limp as a noodle.

    As the White Emperor recognized the two young figures before him, his face twitched, as if he were crying. Spirits seldom wept, but his was a portrait of sorrow.

    "Want to say something?" Divine Dawn asked.

    "The four grand celestial treasures can control the Five Infernos Star Barrier. I feel... the grand celestial formation has returned..." the White Emperor said, his voice quivering."Why speak these words? Do you seek repentance? To entrust us with guarding the Great Dao Celestial Realm while you rest in peace?" Divine Dawn''s voice was icy.

    "I..." The White Emperor stared at her, speechless.

    "Your theatrically timed repentance is but an insult to those you''ve in. I suggest you cease, for you¡¯ve been vile enough. Spare us further disgust at the end," Divine Dawn said, her voice fiery with scorn.

    "Shen Xi, my daughter..." The White Emperor''s spirit dimmedpletely.

    Shaking her head, Divine Dawn no longer wished to hear that name from his lips. She nced at Yun Xiao and said, "Don''t let him die too easily."

    With that, she moved toward the four grand celestial treasures. As she turned, her eyes held nothing but resolve.

    Now, only Yun Xiao and the White Emperor remained.

    "Defeat Lu Fan. Make his death more miserable than mine," the White Emperor said.

    "Sure, I¡¯ve already thought of how to deal with him. When the timees, I''ll make you two despicable spirits inseparably linked," Yun Xiao replied coldly.

    Disinterested in further viewing, he fetched a jade bottle and trapped the White Emperor¡¯s lingering spirit within.

    After sealing the bottle, he shook it slightly!

    In that moment, the fervent eyes of millions of Immortals were fixed upon that jade vessel.

    "He''s been executed, what are you hesitant about? Must celebrations be so restrained?" Yun Xiao faced the masses and let out augh.

    This deration echoed across the heavens, initially met with a deathly silence. But then, at a certain moment, tears burst forth from everyone''s eyes!

    It wasn''t that they were reserved; they feared the tyrant, the White Emperor, terrified that he might somehow still turn the tides of war through some connection with the Immortal Asylum.

    For ordinary Immortals, epting the White Emperor¡¯s defeat and the capture of his spirit was no easy task.

    To them, the White Emperor was like the high sun in the sky¡ªhow could he fall so easily?

    Now, not only had he fallen, but he was also in, leaving no corpse intact, by two young ones, including his own daughter!

    After enduring oppression and suffocation, the confirmation of this astonishing good news was liberating.

    The Heavenly Pce was soon drowned in shouts, the exact words indistinct, visible only as fervent gazes burned upon Yun Xiao, heralding him as the future Emperor of the heavens!

    "The entire Constetion Army is dead, the imperial family is dead!"

    "Nearly all the nobles of the 18 Department Legions are dead!"

    "The White Emperor is dead! All the celestial officials are dead!"

    "This is the moment to rebuild the new Celestial Court, to establish a new order..."

    Those fervent eyes represented the Immortals'' hopes for the future.

    "Let Lu Yao be the new Emperor of the Celestial Court!"

    "Arbiter Lu Yao, unify the Great Dao Celestial Realm, blessings upon the heavens!"

    They hadn''t gotten a proper look of Yun Xiao''s Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique¡ªor rather, the <em>Yun Xiao Loves Divine Dawn Sword Technique</em>.

    In the rumors spreading across the Celestial Court, the miracle youth who slew both Lu Fan and the White Emperor was still just a Rank 9 Arbiter from Sky Soaring City chasing his dreams!

    But they didn''t know that the true challenge in Yun Xiao¡¯s heart was still the Chaos Soul, which remained a formidable foe.

    At this moment, people were already celebrating the new Emperor¡¯s <em>coronation</em>.

    "Wait a moment!"

    At this most fervent time, Yun Xiao suddenly raised his hand, signaling for silence.

    The Heavenly Pce''s mor gradually subsided. Still, the Immortals looked up to Yun Xiao, waiting for him to dere something...

    "My fellow Immortals!" Yun Xiao gathered his celestial power and spoke loudly, "I am but a wanderer, good enough in battle, but to govern and rule over the people, that''s truly beyond me, I simply do not possess such skill."

    At these words, the smiles on people¡¯s faces froze, turning into stunned expressions.

    Fortunately, in that moment, Yun Xiao turned to the young woman in white, who was equally the center of attention, and smiled, "Do you all not see? This favored daughter of the heavens, born with an imperial aura, like a peerless Empress against the sun and moon, she is the true future of the Great Dao Celestial Realm."

    As Yun Xiao spoke, the Heavenly Pce erupted once more.

    The Immortals were excited again, clearly epting Divine Dawn. Throughout this time, Divine Dawn''s actions had beenmendable.

    But it was Yun Xiao who often overshadowed her.

    "Divine Dawn Empress! Divine Dawn Empress!"

    The familiar title echoed across the vast heavens.

    This title also dazed the young woman in white, as if transporting her back to that pocket world. Yet, looking out over this boundless celestial realm, how could its vastness be measured?

    "What are you nning to do by stepping back?" Divine Dawn asked, biting her lip, visibly displeased.

    "I intend to retire behind the scenes, to be the man behind your sess," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Don''t start with me." Divine Dawn huffed. But she knew Yun Xiao well; responsibility was what he feared most. Expecting him to stay put was out of the question.

    "It''s too early to talk about rebuilding the Celestial Court," Divine Dawn said with a frown, a hint of apprehension in her tone.

    "With the White Emperor dead, Lu Fan will surely stir up trouble. The decisive battle hasn¡¯t ended; in fact, it''s just begun," Yun Xiao dered.

    The two exchanged a look, understanding each other well.

    "Next, you takemand and soothe the people, while I''ll devote myself to tracking down Lu Fan," Yun Xiao stated.

    "Agreed."

    The division of tasks and their cooperation remained as seamless and natural as ever.

    Even now, the Heavenly Pce, indeed the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm, was still in turmoil. But Yun Xiao believed she would handle it well!

    "I need to take some time to absorb the gains from this battle," Yun Xiao said. He longed to wander freely with her, but the pressures of time were too pressing.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Wait."

    As Yun Xiao turned to leave, Divine Dawn called out to him.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Divine Dawn sped her hands, her head lowered, cheeks tinted with a blush. "It''s... Lian Xi wanted me to tell you, she... she forgives you!"

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh softly. "You are Lian Xi."

    "I am not, hmph." Divine Dawn pursed her lips, showing her small fangs, still pretending to re fiercely at Yun Xiao.

    "If forgiveness is in the air, how about a hug?" Yun Xiao naturally extended his arms, even under the watchful eyes of all.

    "Wait." Divine Dawn lifted the Seal of Heaven, pressing it against Yun Xiao¡¯s chest, her eyebrows archly raised. "Do you really like me?"

    Her stance, and the sense of strangeness and caution between them, made it clear she was no longer Lian Xi.

    She was now the Seventh Princess of the Celestial Court, who had just furiously pummeled her father to death.

    "I do," Yun Xiao said simply.

    "Alright." Although Divine Dawn said this, she didn¡¯t lower the seal. Biting her lip, she told Yun Xiao, "Let''s have a spiritual rtionship then!"

    "What''s a spiritual rtionship?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh and cry.

    "It means, don''t ever think about touching me!" Divine Dawn dered seriously.

    Her expression told Yun Xiao that their personalities were slowly merging. While they might disy three different traits, their memories were blending.

    This meant they both remembered the <em>third time</em>, which, for them, was not a good thing.

    "Do we have to be so strict? I''ll figure something out," Yun Xiao said.

    Truth be told, Divine Dawn was the most beautiful and wless, and Yun Xiao had been indulging a bit too muchtely, truly craving her exquisite charm.

    "No need to bother. It¡¯s not necessary." Divine Dawn looked at him with a touch of coldness. "If you need to satisfy such base desires, go find your Cao Shuo, not me."

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless. Who in the world spread that rumor!

 Chapter 722: Silver Immortal Asylum!

    Chapter 722: Silver Immortal Asylum!

    "Senior Sister Zhao is pregnant, and now Lil Xi won''t let me touch her."

    The two dearest women in Yun Xiao''s heart were now distant spectacles, untouchable as the sanctity of untouched blossoms. For others, a nine-month pregnancy flickered by in a blink. But for Yun Xiao, it stretched endlessly, a road with no visible end.

    As for Divine Dawn¡­ there was hope if she was ready to sacrifice herself¡­ But Yun Xiao didn''t even consider this route an option.

    He coughed lightly, his mind drifting to Thunder Emissary Cao''s formidable Eighteen Peaks Formation.

    "Bring over the Azure Rain Sword Vessel."

    As Divine Dawn dealt with the reconstruction of the Heavenly Pce, Yun Xiao swiftly moved to the next phase.

    Soon, the Azure Rain Sword Vessel descended from the heavens,nding before the ruins of the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    Once the hatch opened, Yun Xiao leapt inside, only to find Yue Yin and Gu Suwan standing guard like twin deities at the doorway, their faces pale and eyes trembling with barely contained fear.

    "What¡¯s the matter? Has the killing of the White Emperor reduced you to this state?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled."We¡­" They bowed deeply, their voices quivering, unable to speak.

    Yun Xiao understood their remorse and fear. With things havinge this far, there was little left to say.

    "Go and see if there''s anything you can still help with. The celestial officers are nearly all dead, and chaos reigns. We need every person avable."

    "Understood."

    Perhaps keeping busy was the only way they could fend off the crushing pressure inside.

    After they departed, within the confines of the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, Yun Xiao divided into three.

    To his left, a silver torrent coalesced into a five-and-a-half-foot-tall figure with silver hair, silver eyes, and fox ears¡ªa youth of such beauty he could be mistaken for a maiden.

    The bloodline of the Nian and Yaksha Ancestor had fully transferred into his Divine Destion Physique. When the crimson and dull yellow eyes of this body double opened, the <em>docile</em> little fox transformed in an instant into a fierce cmity-bearing demon.

    "Such a formidable demon form, and it''s merely your body double¡­"

    The Yaksha Ancestor, already on the brink of a mental copse, felt the urge to end it all right there.

    Then it saw something else: blood seemed to pour from Yun Xiao¡¯s body, forming a crimson devil dragon that entered a crystal coffin. Inside, a withered corpse began to inte slowly, its skin turning plump, rosy, and radiantly alive with explosive potential.

    "What''s this?"

    The Yaksha Ancestor hadn''t expected Yun Xiao to also split his devilish power. This was the force that had subdued it!

    It longed to stare longer, but then Yun Xiao had Moon Fairy step out of the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    "What on earth is your origin!" the Yaksha Ancestor snarled at Moon Fairy, pressing the question like a de to his forehead.

    "Hey upstairs, stop your hollering. I haven''t figured it out myself after all this time, and he''s not going to tell you," the Nian jeered with a scoff.

    "Useless mutt, get lost!" the Yaksha Ancestor growled back ferociously.

    "You eyebrow-perched fool, stop ying dumb," the Nian retorted, chuckling dismissively.

    "You¡¯re asking for death!"

    The situation was tense; it looked like Moon Fairy''s eyes were about to brawl right on his face, creating a scene of utter chaos.

    "Enough from all of you."

    His face tightened, and he pressed back the four raging eyes.

    Then, Moon Fairy moved toward two shadows¡ªonerge, one small¡ªahead of him.

    The smaller shadow, much tinier than Moon Fairy, wore twin ponytails and a maid outfit, her eyes a piercing ice blue¡ªit was Pale Revenant. The taller figure, legs longer than the little maid herself, had long hair that fell to her waist and wore a white dress slit at the side, her eyes moist and deep.

    Moon Fairy wasn''t really there for them, but for what they guarded¡ªthe Immortal Asylum.

    It was a ck staff, 18 segments long with each segment looking like a tiny window. It stood quietly nted in the earth. The top two segments had holes, from which dust and smoke seeped, looking eerily hollow, while the lower 16 segments disyed runes resembling script, sealing the sins within.

    Despite this, Moon Fairy could still feel the oppressive aura emanating from it.

    He took a deep breath, his palm grasping the ancient ck Immortal Asylum, and attempted to lift it.

    "So heavy..." Moon Fairy frowned.

    The fact that the White Emperor and Yaksha Ancestor had turned this massive Immortal Asylum into a mere staff suggested it had the potential to be a weapon.

    But why could the White Emperor wield it, yet he, having absorbed the bloodline of the Yaksha Ancestor, could not?

    "Yaksha Ancestor," Moon Fairy closed his eyes, his voice hollow, "resolve my doubt."

    The Yaksha Ancestorughed coldly, clearly unwilling to respond.

    "You already possess two lines of Sin bloodlines; with your blood, it should be simple enough to wield the Immortal Asylum," the Nian suddenly spoke up.

    At this, the Yaksha Ancestor burst into fury, cursing, "Stupid mutt, I can''t believe you''re licking his boots! Did you really get domesticated that quickly!?"

    The Nian chuckled with a sneer. "Hurhur. It''s called carrot and stick, and I''ve had enough of the stick."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Moon Fairy also smiled. Before, it had only been the Nian, a creature both proud and coy, revealing nothing. Even Yun Xiao could not tame it.

    But now, burdened with added sins, a rivalry had ignited, and the Nian seemed eager to maintain its lead.

    As long as they were at odds, Moon Fairy continued to benefit. For instance, as they bickered now, Moon Fairy tapped a w, piercing his skin slightly, and the silvery blood of his Divine Destion Physique seeped onto the ck Immortal Asylum.

    With a sizzling sound, the Immortal Asylum absorbed the silver blood, forging a new bond with Moon Fairy. During the process, the staff transformed into a gleaming silver color, far more elegant and appealing than before.

    With a mighty effort, Moon Fairy hoisted the transformed Immortal Asylum.

    "Even though it remains heavy to foes, I can now wield it with ease..."

    He swung the silver Immortal Asylum, feeling its essence and traits, as if it were a boundless world of sin.

    "With this, once the body double returns to me, I can wield the Immortal Asylum with impact. But, what about transforming?"

    After all, this body double was a demon, and its true strengthy in its transformed state.

    For Moon Fairy himself, wielding the silver Immortal Asylum in human form seemed a waste.

    So, with his own blood, he slowly tuned into the changes of the Immortal Asylum, which felt like unlocking the outermostyer of the staff, touching upon part of its essence.

    "It''s as if it has life, understanding my thoughts..." Moon Fairy took a deep breath.

    Between the Great Mother and Pale Revenant, he bowed to the ground, morphing into a six-tailed silver demon fox. Its number of tails did not seem particrly gifted, but its gaze, fur, and inner essence were truly formidable in the society of demons.

    "Immortal Asylum!"

    Transformed into a fox, Moon Fairy startlingly noticed the Immortal Asylum separating into segments.

    It split into 18 small silver rods!

    These rods then melted into 18 silver droplets, which began to liquefy and then astonishingly flew toward Moon Fairy''s ws!

    Each of his four limbs boasted four ws¡ªsixteen in total.

    Of the eighteen droplets, sixteen fused onto his ws, like fitting gloves over fists, each w sheathed in the Immortal Asylum''s quicksilver, bing sharper, more durable, and prating deep into the bone!

    The tworgest drops of silver fused into Moon Fairy''s upper canines, transforming them into sword-like fangs that extended past his lips, gleaming with silver light, bristling with a killing intent.

    He had be, in every sense, a saber-toothed fox.

    "Damn..." Moon Fairy hadn''t anticipated that the Immortal Asylum could adapt so <em>intelligently</em>. In human form, it was a staff; in beast form, it fortified his ws and fangs, a feat not even the most barren forges could achieve.

    The harder the Immortal Asylum, the sharper his ws and fangs became.

    With a few casual clicks, Moon Fairy picked up a celestial weapon from the ground that had yet to be cleaned up. Under his ws, the heavy hammer-like weapon split open as easily as tofu.

    "No wonder it''s the Immortal Asylum."

    Though its secrets remained a mystery, at the very least, it was now a weapon in his arsenal!

    When the six-tailed demon fox showed its ws and fangs, even the Great Mother and Pale Revenant beside him felt a tremendous pressure. Especially the Great Mother, her emotions wereplex. She had once devoured Moon Fairy, never guessing he was actually Yun Xiao, that freak of the heavenly dao himself.

    At that moment, she dared not meet Moon Fairy''s gaze.

    Then, as Moon Fairy transformed back into human form, the Immortal Asylum on his ws also condensed back into a staff.

    "Exhrating!"

    After chasing the Immortal Asylum for so long, it was finally his. It blessed Moon Fairy and, by extension, Yun Xiao himself. He basked in the joy of obtaining new loot.

    "My little maid, there are still many treasures left to gather; you go quickly," Moon Fairy instructed the young girl.

    "Yes, Immortal Yun." Pale Revenant, who had always stayed by Moon Fairy''s side in the mortal realm, was ustomed to knowing the demon fox as Yun Xiao himself.

    The Great Mother, on the other hand, was still adjusting. So, facing this benefactor, she was noticeably nervous. As Pale Revenant departed, she quickly said, "I''m very sorry about earlier."

    Moon Fairy lifted his head, somewhatboriously looking at her smooth chin, and asked curiously, "I''ve heard that in the past, after making love, you would devour men on the spot?"

    The Great Mother paused, then shook her head. "I only have an appetite; I take no pleasure in the flesh. The world misunderstands me."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 723: A Maiden Slain From Tens of Thousands of Miles Away!

    Chapter 723: A Maiden in From Tens of Thousands of Miles Away!

    "Oh?" Moon Fairy remarked, recalling when he was offered up as a tribute to the Great Mother. She had treated him as nothing more than a prized son. His experience had not been as revolting as the rumors suggested.

    Now, Yun Xiao had cleansed the Great Mother thoroughly. Once the stench of death was removed, she looked as pale and ethereal as any human Martial Immortal much like Pale Revenant.

    "Squat down," Moon Fairymanded.

    "Um..." The Great Mother crouched, her long legs bending slightly to level her eyes with Moon Fairy, who seemed but a child in size.

    Yet, this childmanded only awe from her gaze.

    Up close, the Moon Fairy examined her face¡ªa delicate and cold visage that gave even the undead demons a vacant, almost foolish look.

    Moon Fairy pinched the Great Mother''s cheek and said, "It''s fine. No need to linger in the past. Just follow me like my little maid does."

    At these words, clear tears welled up in the Great Mother¡¯s vacant eyes.

    Though the one making this promise had changed his form, Moon Fairy''s tone and demeanor were unmistakably those of Yun Xiao. It was as if a different hand was pinching her.The Great Mother knelt deeply, bowing her head with a choked and heartfelt, "Thank you, Immortal Yun."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, a tall, striking Yin Devil maiden with dragon horns and d in tight leather, watched the Great Mother kneel outside. Biting her red lip, she remarked, "Congrattions, another fierce warrior joins your harem. Eight feet tall¡ªthat should be quite enough for your exploits."

    Yun Xiao, who was thinking about how to break through to the Night God Realm, nearly choked at her words.

    "Shut it," he snapped. "You don¡¯t understand what a corpse demon is. Don¡¯t be so narrow-minded, always dragging gender into this."

    "Who knows the limits of your tastes?" the War Princess huffed, arms crossed and clearly displeased.

    "Enough with the jealousy," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Jealous of you?" the War Princess pursed her lips. "I¡¯m just venting a bit of pent-up frustration."

    "Still ufortable?" Yun Xiao rose and leaned next to her, asking.

    "Can I speak frankly?" she asked.

    "Of course. I am generous and never exploit my own. Speak freely," Yun Xiao encouraged.

    Her crimson eyes trembled slightly as she whispered, "If possible, I¡¯d like to fight alongside you, not be treated like a draft ox, dragged everywhere¡ªit''s degrading!"

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but smile. "You¡¯ve been winning all along without moving an inch, and now you want to work?"

    "Why not? I''m tired of lying down; isn¡¯t it right that I wish to try now?" The War Princess gritted her teeth.

    "Are you serious?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Mhm." She nodded, turning her pretty face aside, muttering under her breath, "Always turning into a dry corpse, my figure has shrunk. I''m not standing for it."

    Yun Xiao looked up at the stern-faced Yin Devil before him and smirked, "I haven''t noticed any change."

    "What do you know? I''m still young; I need to keep growing. Not growing is as good as shrinking," the War Princess retorted sharply.

    Yun Xiao was silent. He knew this girl brought up her <em>losses</em> to gain some autonomy. Did he care? It seemed he did, after all.

    "So," Yun Xiao said, "from now on, whether in cultivation or battle, I''ll take you along more often."

    "Really?" The War Princess''s blood-red eyes sparkled.

    "A man''s promise is his bond."

    "That''s wonderful!"

    She beamed joyfully, hugging Yun Xiao tightly enough to squeeze the breath from him, whispering, "Thank you on behalf of my sisters too!"

    Yun Xiao, catching his breath, took a moment to understand the <em>sisters</em> she referred to.

    By then, the War Princess had already dashed out of the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, to relish the sweet air of freedom.

    "She truly is a feisty youngdy¡ªmature in all ways but her mind..."

    However, her style had certainly be more fiery. It was in keeping with the nature of a devil¡ªdirect, unrestrained, fierce, with clear lines between love and hate, harboring no secrets.

    Watching her lithe figure disappear, Yun Xiao was reminded of a certain term¡ªforbidden delicacy. There was nothing wrong with that. It was the essence of their rtionship, established the moment the Blood Base was formed.

    And the corpse demons were just fervent followers, willing to die for him. Fundamentally, these rtionships were different.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Gate of Death."

    Stripping away all else, returning to his true form, and nurturing the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, Yun Xiao aimed for the heavens.

    And Yun Xiao, with the eyes of his spirit, finally beheld the Gate of Death!

    "The Death and Life Realm, thest two realms of the Third Dao Tribtion. But I guess Night and Dawn God Realm sounds more ptable¡­"

    A change of name often implied no real change at all.

    Yun Xiao was now ascending to the Night God Realm, which truly meant his spirit was to enter the Gate of Death and proceed into the realm of death!

    <em>BOOM! </em>His Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, as regal as any Emperor of Spirits, sted open the Gate of Death and plunged through.

    <em>FWOOM! </em>As his spirit entered, the dense fog within the Gate of Death seemed to boil up, swirling violently.

    "What''s going on here?"

    "I don''t know!"

    From within the Gate of Death, two female voices echoed.

    The voices sounded familiar to Yun Xiao. His spirit had just stabilized, ustomed to the purging mists of the Gate of Death, and he moved toward the source of the sounds.

    The two female spirits, curious about the disturbance, approached as well.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The parties met amidst the thick fog.

    Yun Xiao squinted into the fog and saw two figures; one dignified and majestic,manding awe and reverence¡ªit was none other than the Empress Zhao. The other, a charming female celestial maiden with rabbit ears, was Saintess Yao Xi, the Princess Consort.

    The spirit of Yao Xi was flushed, hinting at what her physical self was doing.

    "Young man, who are you?" Empress Zhao eyed the <em>ordinary</em> looking spirit from above, her tone questioning.

    "Strange, I don''t recall such a figure in the Celestial Court," Yao Xi remarked.

    Yun Xiao was equally surprised; he knew the Princess Consort was young, but he hadn''t expected her to reach the exalted level of the Night God Realm so soon!

    It seemed she, too, had just broken through the Gate of Death.

    Yun Xiao looked at them both, saying nothing, his mind vibrating.

    "No response, is it? No matter who you are, once you''re in our domain, you must immediately report to the Lord of this realm," Yao Xi dered coldly.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "And who might that be?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "That would naturally be Lu¡ª"

    Yao Xi had not finished speaking when Empress Zhao interrupted her. She gazed at Yun Xiao and said, "Head outside the Great Dao Celestial Realm''s Ascension Pool, and wait for the descent of the Western Kunlun Pce."

    Yun Xiao smiled and said, "I see, Lu Fan is it?"

    "You know him?" Yao Xi looked at Yun Xiao with a sneer.

    "I do. He¡¯s a scoundrel," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Insolence!"

    Already high and mighty, Yao Xi was particrly incensed to hear her revered being ndered. Her spirit instantly whipped up a pink storm that bore down on Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes narrowed, and a golden spirit sword materialized in his hand, exploding into a Flying Sword.

    "Emperor Proliferation, performed by a spirit?!" Empress Zhao, initially calm, was visibly shaken.

    As she spoke, an<em> Emperor</em> sword formation<em></em>enveloped Yao Xi¡¯s spirit.

    "What?" Yao Xi was stunned, then let out a heart-wrenching scream as her spirit was torn to shreds in a sh of light!

    <em>POOF! </em>She was gone in an instant.

    Empress Zhao, breaking out in a cold sweat, quickly recalled her spirit.

    "My lord..."

    In the Peach Blossom Vi, Empress Zhao''s face was pale as she turned to see the disheveled middle-aged man. In his embrace was a twitching young woman with rabbit ears, who suddenly spat a mouthful of ck blood and then slumped lifelessly in his arms.

    The disheveled middle-aged man picked up the lifeless body, dressed her, and looked at Empress Zhao. "What happened?"

    "A stranger appeared in the Gate of Death and executed the Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique," Empress Zhao said with a trembling voice.

    Lu Fan''s expression flickered with uncertainty. Around him, hundreds of voluptuous celestial maidens, seeing the dead gaze of the Princess Consort, shuddered in fear.

    "My lord, it is necessary..."

    Empress Zhao had barely started speaking when Lu Fan looked outward, toying with the All-Life Empress Gu in his hand, his lips curling slightly as he whispered ominously, "More and more people are popping out of the shadows. No matter, let¡¯s first feed ourselves well; whoeveres, dies."

 Chapter 724: Trees Planted by the Forebears, Roots Pulled by the Later Generations

    Chapter 724: Trees nted by the Forebears, Roots Pulled by the Later Generations

    <em>BOOM! </em>Like an Azure Bird, the Western Kunlun Pce sailed through the void of the heavens, its wings slicing through the air with incredible speed.

    Atop the bird''s <em>back,</em> the Azure Bird Mystical Array held fast, a cage suppressing the limbless Crown Prince within.

    The Crown Prince''s body was deathly pale, his blood seemingly drained. His face was creased, his eyes dull, and his once-ck hair had turned ash-gray overnight.

    Gone was the Crown Prince who had stood noble for several millennia, reced now by an old man whose frail and withered body could barely move, a man who found even dying hard.

    His lifeless eyes seemed to have departed this world already.

    Standing beside the Azure Bird Mystical Array was a tall woman d in golden armor, thest remaining Rank 1 Sovereign of the Celestial Court.

    Known as the Combat Sovereign, she was a woman who did not bow to men, a Rank 1 Sovereign, naturally indicating her unparalleled abilities.

    While others dallied in the Peach Blossom Vi, she was tasked with guarding the Crown Prince.

    She was not one for love; unlike the other delicate celestial maidens, she was merely a part of this plot crafted by the Empress Dowager herself¡ªa plot she could not escape from. Once trapped, her soul was lost.

    "Word has it that your Imperial Father was in by Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn," the Combat Sovereign spoke somberly.

    After saying this, she observed the Crown Prince. For him, this was undoubtedly the cruelest news, snuffing out hisst shred of hope. Yet, it seemed the Crown Prince had anticipated this; aside from two lines of muddy tears at the corners of his eyes, he showed no other reaction.

    "This means your family¡¯s celestial dynasty haspletely copsed, bing nothing but a relic in the annals of history," the Combat Sovereign remarked solemnly.

    She trulymented! How many years had this imperial line ruled the Great Dao Celestial Realm?

    For so many years, the Celestial Court had faced no challenges. She had never imagined that it would meet its ruin in this generation''s madness.

    "If there were no incense offerings, there would be no Great Mother, perhaps no Yun Xiao or Divine Dawn either... but there would certainly be <em>him</em>! So, your doom was destined."

    Of course, the Combat Sovereign was referring to Lu Fan, who was rxing within the Peach Blossom Vi. She murmured to herself, while the Crown Prince seemed to be in another world, unresponsive.

    "Your Highness!" The Combat Sovereign drew closer, her cold gaze fixed on the Crown Prince, her voice a whisper, "Your father died at the hands of Yun Xiao, your lineage has ended. But this also means Yun Xiao has grown stronger, more able to contend with Lu Fan. Are you pleased, or are you not?"

    "Leave!" The Crown Prince closed his eyes and trembled as he spoke.

    The Combat Sovereign smirked, a slight twist to her lips that spelled both amusement and disdain. Toying with the normally brutal and tyrannical Crown Prince brought her quickfort. As she watched his fallen state, an old, dusty memory rose unbidden to her mind...

    In those years long past, she had been but a girl, her talents just beginning to show, when she was summoned to the Taiwei Imperial Pce and met him. And after that encounter, she was a girl no longer.

    Yet, the Combat Sovereign did not care much for such personal grievances. The Celestial Court was a monster of power, its vortex inherently dark. Her ambitionsy in her cultivation and career advancement, which had smoothly carried her to her current exalted position.

    But today, seeing the Crown Prince so reduced, her heart leapt with a vengeful joy! She could trample him mercilessly, treat him as no more than a dog.

    "Your Highness, do you still hope that Yun Xiao will defeat him?" the Combat Sovereign taunted softly, "You never truly understood him, from beginning to end¡­ That boy indeed defies the heavens. But sadly, his opponent is the heavens themselves."

    The Combat Sovereign turned her gaze back towards the Peach Blossom Vi. She had encountered the <em>heavens</em> up close; she knew the terror it represented.

    The essence of that man transcended imagination. The way she looked at him was filled with the obsession and adoration that mortals in the lesser realms felt towards a high Immortal. Her belief in him was unshakable.

    The Crown Prince caught all this in her eyes, yet all he could do was offer a bitter smile. Indeed, there was no hope left. He sighed deeply, not yet dead, but the world before him was already filled with darkness.

    At that moment, the wife of the Dragon Tiger Sovereign, Lady Fortune, neatly dressed, emerged from the Peach Blossom Vi carrying a fresh corpse.

    "Who?" the Combat Sovereign gasped. She stared, and the body was that of one of Lu Fan¡¯s most favoreddies, the Crown Princess.

    "Saintess Yao Xi is dead!"

    Upon hearing these trembling words, the Crown Prince paused, his eyes shifting abruptly.

    "What happened?" the Combat Sovereign asked quickly.

    Lady Fortune shook her head and exined, "Yao Xi had just entered the Night God Realm when her spirit passed through the Gate of Death. She encountered someone who could wield the Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique with their spirit alone and was struck down with a single blow."

    "The Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique? Intelligence reports say that Yun Xiao had executed the Emperor Proliferation Sword Technique with his spirit during the battle against the White Emperor!" The Combat Sovereign clenched her teeth.

    "But the Empress Dowager said the spirit didn''t look like Yun Xiao, though it had a simr bearing," Lady Fortune added.

    "Our realm''s Gate of Death would not allow outsiders; it must have been Yun Xiao, no doubt, just with his spirit''s appearance altered..." The Combat Sovereign stared at the wide-eyed, incredulous, and horrific expression of the dead Yao Xi, feeling a tingle on her scalp.

    It was clear that Yao Xi had died abruptly with no chance to react, suggesting the perpetrator was indeed ruthless.

    Both the Combat Sovereign and Lady Fortune were silent when the Crown Prince burst out inughter. Heughed for the first time, starting with a chuckle, then bursting into roaringughter.

    "What goes aroundes around, and debts must be paid," the Crown Prince bellowed maniacally, spewing blood as heughed.

    It was hard to imagine that amidst the despair following the White Emperor''s death, he could actually muster realughter.

    "Shut your mouth!" the Combat Sovereign said coldly.

    "It''s almost your turn. Are you scared? You must be. Your paths aren''t righteous either; you know you''ve done wrong. Lu Fan intoxicates you, but he too is a source of indulgent evil. In the face of karmic retribution, he too will walk the path of self-destruction after madness!" the Crown Prince asserted with unwavering conviction.

    No one could understand the feeling of impending <em>retribution</em> better than him; in his eyes, no one could escape it.

    "You give Yun Xiao too much credit," Lady Fortune sneered.

    "Your souls are controlled by Lu Fan; you''ve lost all reason. It doesn''t matter, he must be scared by now," the Crown Prince said, his eyes gleaming.

    He wanted to see! He longed to see the end of this story! This was just the beginning, and already the faces of the Combat Sovereign and Lady Fortune were markedly grim.

    "Pay no mind to this cripple."

    After saying this, the Combat Sovereign instructed Lady Fortune to move Yao Xi''s body to another hall in the Western Kunlun Pce, so as not to dampen the spirits of those still reveling in life.

    The two carried the body away, but the Crown Prince''sughter continued unabated.

    "Let the petty enjoy their moment; soon they''ll cry themselves to death," Lady Fortune spat on the Crown Prince, her face full of disgust.

    Just then, behind the Western Kunlun Pce, a colorful light suddenly pierced the darkness, soaring into the endless skies, as if prating the world itself.

    The disturbance halted the azure bird in its tracks.

    "What is that?"

    Lady Fortune and the Combat Sovereign turned to look behind them, witnessing a radiant beam of multicolored light piercing the heavens from the Great Dao Celestial Realm, dyeing the endless void in vibrant hues.

    "This is..."

    Both women furrowed their brows, faces etched with confusion.

    Meanwhile, the still-smirking Crown Prince shuddered, staring transfixed at the soaring prism of light. Suddenly, he screamed, "The Summoning Edict! The Summoning Edict!"

    After repeating himself, he erupted into a frenziedughter. "Father! I knew you wouldn''t fall so dishonorably..."

    The Crown Prince''s face twitched from manicughter to tears, but these were tears of joy, a wild and mournful jubtion.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Lu Fan, Empress Zhao, and others burst forth from the Peach Blossom Land, turning their gaze toward the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    "The Summoning Edict..." Empress Zhao''s face paled, stepping back as her heart pounded.

    "Empress Zhao, what is the Summoning Edict?" the other celestial women asked anxiously, confusion in their eyes.

    "The ancestors, not just forefathers, but the founding Emperors of our lineage¡ªunrivaled beings in the Fourth and Fifth Dao Tribtions, the root of our imperial line," Empress Zhao said, her voice trembling with fear.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "What..."

    The understanding women turned ashen, while those unclear on the details remained perplexed.

    What could be so terrifying?

    Their eyes turned to their cornerstone of strength.

    This middle-aged man in the tattered golden robe watched the light calmly, having waited too long for this moment. "If they hadn''t opened this Primordial Prison, I''d be stuck in this kennel forever," he said with a sly grin and a shrug.

    The celestial women, not fully grasping his words, could at least see Lu Fan was plotting deeply.

    This eased Empress Zhao''s tension. She nced disdainfully at the weeping prince and then said to Lu Fan, "My lord, we''re ready to carry out your n for the mortal stars."

    "Indeed." The man in the golden robe turned, the mortal stars hanging in the void before him, almost within reach.

    Lu Fan twirled the All-Life Empress Gu in his hand, his gaze burning as he looked toward the mortal realm. "Now that the call is made, time is of the essence. Get moving, and make it quick."

    Empress Zhao led the capable and beautiful celestial women of the Celestial Court, all in unison, "Yes!"

    "Remember," Lu Fan gazed at the stars, "I seek not their worship, but their souls."

    "Their souls..." Empress Zhao''s voice quivered, "My lord, offerings can nurture and be reused, like peach trees bearing fruit annually. But if we harvest souls, from thousands of worlds, countless billions of beings, this can only be done once."

    Lu Fan chuckled dryly. "For one to ascend, countless must fall. Trees nted by the forebears, roots pulled by theter generations¡ªit makes perfect sense."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Celestial Court, the sudden burst of the colorful light startled Moon Fairy, the Great Mother, and Pale Revenant.

    "What is that?" Moon Fairy was overwhelmed by the light. Looking up, he saw it seemed to burst from the front of the Taiwei Imperial Pce, very close to him...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 725: Birds of a Feather, Slaying Their Fathers Together

    Chapter 725: Birds of a Feather, ying Their Fathers Together

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Moon Fairy sprang up swiftly, moving toward the burst of radiant light.

    "Immortal Yun!"

    The Great Mother and Pale Revenant approached from either side, converging with him as they moved forward together.

    While his body double ventured forth to investigate, Yun Xiao''s true self remained within the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, continuing his cultivation.

    Soon, Moon Fairy arrived at the source of the radiant light and spotted a celestial formation.

    "This is the ce where the White Emperor perished!" Moon Fairy recognized it instantly.

    The body of the White Emperor had long since turned to dust, but beneath where hey, a colorful six-pointed star formation now spread, boasting six hues, its brilliance dazzling to the eyes, imbued with an ancient power!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The heavens shuddered with the vibrations of the Sacred Emperor Barrier, which clearly lent its strength to this colorful celestial formation, amplifying the radiant light.

    "This can''t be good..."Anything connected to the White Emperor was bound to be trouble.

    Without a second word, Moon Fairy, clutching the silver Immortal Asylum, hurled it directly at the colorful celestial formation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>When the Immortal Asylum touched the colorful formation, the force exerted by Moon Fairy felt like striking water.

    <em>POP! </em>The formation produced a strong suction, swallowing Yun Xiao''s body double whole.

    "Immortal Yun!"

    The Great Mother and Pale Revenant, faces filled with urgency, one after another, crashed into the colorful celestial formation, vanishing into a kaleidoscopic sea in the blink of an eye.

    After the three entered, the celestial formation seemed to burst, and just then, Divine Dawn severed the Sacred Emperor Barrier''s connection to the colorful formation, causing it to tremble violently.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The colorful wave-like celestial formation shattered, and the prating radiance, like fireworks at their brightest, finally faded away.

    The world slowly returned to normal.

    "What in the world?"

    In the next instant, a white figure appeared at the site, stomping his foot down¡ªno sign of the celestial formation remained, only the charred, ruined ground.

    That white figure was none other than Yun Xiao himself.

    ¡°Gone?¡± The War Princess appeared beside him, her face a mask of confusion.

    Yun Xiao wore an expression of speechless exasperation.

    Soon after, the girl in the white dress flew over from a distance, hurrying to ask, ¡°Wasn''t that your body double? What happened?¡±

    ¡°He fell into some sort of long river and is now drifting forward in its currents, with no end in sight,¡± Yun Xiao paused, frowning. ¡°But... it seems a bit difficult to return. I need to think of another way.¡±

    ¡°And the two corpse demons?¡± The War Princess quirked an eyebrow.

    ¡°They¡¯re clinging together. No, I mean... protecting each other,¡± Yun Xiao sheepishly corrected.

    Divine Dawn rolled her eyes at this.

    ¡°Speaking of which, what¡¯s this colorful celestial formation? It seems to have been activated by the White Emperor?¡± Yun Xiao hadn¡¯t expected that something long dead and reduced to ashes could still cause such a stir. It must have been set up by him ahead of time.

    Divine Dawn slightly furrowed her brows, pondering, ¡°I¡¯ve heard that the imperial family came from an ancestralnd. I don¡¯t know where it is. This celestial formation resembles a summoning edict for ancestors, intended to call them for help. But I¡¯ve never heard of such a summoning edict sucking people in.¡±

    ¡°So, you mean the trouble has just grown?¡± Yun Xiao said with a headache. He was still busy handling the matter of the incense offerings. Another unknown variable was thest thing he wanted.

    ¡°Not necessarily, since it was interrupted right after activation by me, there¡¯s a high chance it didn¡¯t send out a signal,¡± Divine Dawn reassured, ncing back at the site of the celestial formation. ¡°Of course, the interruption of the formation and your body double falling into it are rted.¡±

    ¡°So, if the summoning edict wasn¡¯t sessful, our only loss is threebatants,¡± the War Princess suddenly smirked.

    ¡°Ugh¡­¡± Yun Xiao was now hurriedly seeking a solution to prepare for his final showdown with Lu Fan. Yet, at this critical moment, his Divine Destion Physique and the two corpse demons were gone.

    Those three were his front-line heavy hitters!

    ¡°And the Immortal Asylum is gone too,¡± Divine Dawn bit her lip, her irritation apparent.

    These were major assets for confronting the Chaos Soul.

    Now only Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, and the War Princess remained, seemingly at a disadvantage.

    ¡°That¡¯s not the worst of it. If your body double can¡¯t return, and the summoning edict works, and the imperial family''s ancestor actually shows up, then we¡¯re truly finished,¡± the War Princess said.

    ¡°Stop with your doom and gloom,¡± Divine Dawn suddenly snapped.

    ¡°Heh,¡± the War Princess rolled her eyes.

    Yun Xiao paused, asking, ¡°What¡¯s going on with you two? Got a feud or something?¡±

    "Scram."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Unbelievably, they spoke in unison.

    Divine Dawn had no intention of wasting her thoughts on this love triangle. She suggested, "Extract the White Emperor''s spirit and ask him directly."

    Yun Xiao had been nning to do just that.

    Just then, a thunderous noise erupted overhead as a massive vessel requested entry to the Heavenly Pce.

    "The Nine Thunders Divine Ark, shall we let it in?" Divine Dawn inquired.

    This divine ark was temporarily under the control of Cao Shuo, whose duty was to guard Yun Xiao¡¯s homnd and the rest of the mortal realm.

    After Divine Dawn opened the celestial formation, the Nine Thunders Divine Ark descended swiftly from the sky,nding right in front of them.

    "Darling!"

    The Thunder Department''s enchantress, in her slit dress and voluptuous figure, with curly hair and charming legs, swept up a rich scent of perfume as she approached Yun Xiao.

    She reached out her jade hand and embraced Yun Xiao fully, producing a <em>pop</em> at the moment of their collision.

    "Cough." Yun Xiao was somewhat overwhelmed and quickly pulled away, noticing from the corner of his eye that Divine Dawn¡¯s face had frosted over.

    As for the War Princess, she enjoyed the drama, teasingly remarking, "Both from the human race, yet how can there be such a difference in femininity?"

    Yun Xiao''s headache grew; he didn¡¯t know when she had be so bold as to dare to mock Divine Dawn.

    "Oh?" Cao Shuo sensed the undercurrents swirling. She swiftly changed her tone and respectfully said to Divine Dawn, "This humble Immortal greets the Seventh Princess."

    "Why have you returned? Did something happen?" Divine Dawn seemed calm, her eyes reflecting the suffering of the living and the rise and fall of the world.

    As she asked, an old man with one eye descended from the Nine Thunders Divine Ark¡ªit was the Devil Eye.

    Cao Shuo then spoke earnestly, "After Lord Devil Eye arrived, we cooperated to purge the imperial family from all the mortal stars. Just as themon folk were freed from hardship, a more sinister shadow descended, once again casting the mortal realm into turmoil."

    "Lu Fan and the Western Kunlun Pce?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "Correct. Lu Fan has seized the Crown Prince¡¯s All-Life Empress Gu, intending to take over the incense offerings. It''s already begun! If you wish to restore true peace to the heavens and earth, we must act now," the Devil Eye dered gravely.

    "On board, let''s go!" Yun Xiaomanded.

    Afterwards, Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, and the War Princess, now aware of the gravity of the situation, leaped onto the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, with Cao Shuo and the Devil Eye in tow.

    With a thunderous roar, the Nine Thunders Divine Ark,manded by Cao Shuo, burst forth, surging skyward amidst a ze of lightning.

    "How could the Seventh Princess and Lu Yao just leave?"

    The millions of Immortals were still reeling from the recent surprise of the colorful celestial formation.

    Now, of all times, the Heavenly Pce needed them most! Everything was still in chaos! How could they leave?

    "It''s essential that everyone knows Lu Fan''s true nature and why we''re fighting," Yun Xiao dered.

    "I will exin." Divine Dawn moved to the bow of the ark, facing the millions of Immortals¡ªand by extension, the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm, revealing Lu Fan''s schemes!

    Instantly, the masses were shaken, and the celestial realm united in outrage. The old evil had just been in, and now a new evil was rising! This was uneptable!

    "Damn, that Lu Fan! He''s a real son of a bitch, and his sons are sons of sons of bitches too!!" someone burst out, unable to restrain their curses.

    Another quickly covered his mouth, embarrassedly chiding, "Are you a dumbass? Lu Yao is Lu Fan''s son!"

    "Oh¡­ Right!"

    This wasn''t a father-son drama, but a final showdown that would determine the fate of all.

    "Lu Yao, go fuck your dad up!"

    "The Seventh Princess already took out her own old man! Now, it''s your turn!"

    "Justice over kinship, all of us stand with you!"

    Their voices thundered across the air.

    Divine Dawn witnessed all the faces of anger, her eyes zing red as she proimed, "Any who stand against our mortal kin, no matter how divine, shall be doomed to die a miserable death, fall into hell, and never reincarnate!"

 Chapter 726: Everybodys a Reincarnator!

    Chapter 726: Everybody''s a Reincarnator!

    Amid the uplifted gazes of millions of Immortals, the Nine Thunders Divine Ark soared into the heavens, streaking towards the dimming mortal stars above.

    <em>VROOM! </em>The divine ark, like a colossal whale breaching the skies, pierced through the fiery chronosphere of the Great Dao Celestial Realm. Shrouded in a dense curtain of thunder. It charged forth with a resolve as if weing death, a spectacle of magnificent grandeur.

    "Kill Lu Fan, establish a new heaven!"

    "Embrace Divine Dawn, support Lu Yao!"

    These endless cries spread from the Heavenly Pce, rippling across the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm. In this moment, they became the voice of the Celestial Court''s popce.

    On the deck of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, Yun Xiao''s expression was solemn as he retrieved the lingering spirit of the White Emperor from the jade bottle.

    Divine Dawn, the War Princess, Cao Shuo, and the Devil Eye stood behind him.

    As the White Emperor emerged, he wasughing, hisughter tinged with mockery.

    After a moment, he looked at Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn, shaking his head and sighing, "All this hustle, for what? Sometimes, that''s just the way of the world. In the end, you can''t change anything. It''s all futile.""What exactly do you mean?" Divine Dawn asked, unable to contain her irritation. She stood beside Yun Xiao, the white thunder and mes in her eyes searing onto the White Emperor''s spirit.

    "You know what I mean," the White Emperor said, dismissing the pressure and humiliation with a rxed face, spreading his hands. "Kill me, torment my spirit, it doesn''t matter. Once the summoning edict is issued, I''m merely an outsider."

    "It''s a pity your final dream was cut short," Yun Xiao shrugged.

    The White Emperor chuckled ruefully and looked at Yun Xiao. "You''re obviously a reincarnated one too, and not young at that. How can you still be so naive? Once the summoning edict shes, no power in the world can stop it. You can choose not to believe, but time will give you your answer."

    He shrugged. "Besides, don''t waste your efforts on me. In this game, I was just a nobody who lit the beacon. The fire has already spread to the highest heavens, and no one can stop the march of judgment."

    "I don''t mind," Yun Xiao paused, his voice calm. "From being a Rank 9 Arbiter in Sky Soaring City to today, where I''ve ughtered tens of thousands of your heavenly elite and destroyed your celestial pces, it hasn''t even been ten days. Let the judgmente. In another few more days, it''ll be a good way to deliver heads over thousands of miles, letting me feast on blood."

    Amidst the mor, the White Emperorughed heartily, clutching his stomach in mirth. He stared at Yun Xiao with astonished eyes, clicking his tongue in wonder, his gaze filled with disbelief.

    "Care to exin yourughter?" Yun Xiao pressed.

    Finally ceasing hisughter, the White Emperor spoke in a ghostly whisper, "You and Lu Fan, both of you are reincarnated cultivators. In terms of growth, you''ve unleashed the legacy of your past life faster. But in wisdom, you fall short of him. You defeated me, perhaps because the peak of your previous existence just happened to surpass mine in this life by that slight bit?"

    "Is that theforting lie you tell yourself to mask your fear of me?" Yun Xiao said, his gaze unwavering.

    Hearing this, the White Emperor finally lost his patience, speaking irritably, "Yun Xiao, stop this baseless confidence. Reincarnators like you might be rare in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, but in the grand scheme of the Samsara Gxy, you''re less than nothing."

    "Is that so? I don''t believe it. I am the greatest under heaven," Yun Xiao dered coldly, yet he quietly noted the term Samsara Gxy.

    The White Emperor scoffed, barely containing his disdain.

    "The Samsara Gxy is a realm of endless rebirths! Even just within the domain ruled by my ancestors, reincarnators like you are asmon as sand in a vast desert. The true prodigies of the celestial path, they live too briefly in three lifetimes, attain enlightenment in six, and defy the heavens to be reborn in nine. You rely solely on forcibly unleashing the cultivation of one lifetime, fit only to strut before me. In thisnd where the fire of reincarnation zes, you''re not even worth a scallion!"

    His words left Yun Xiao somewhat shaken.

    The Samsara Gxy, teeming with countless reincarnators?

    The only true reincarnator Yun Xiao had encountered was the Divine Sky Sword Emperor Ling Chen, who had been in and whose remnant spirit had wandered for a million years before being reborn. It was unclear if this was the same type of universal rebirth the White Emperor spoke of.

    "So, the faster a reincarnator releases their previous cultivation, and the more they surge in power shortly after awakening, the lower their ultimate potential and the shallower their past fortunes?" Yun Xiao followed the White Emperor''s mocking tone, probing the root of his disdain.

    "Isn''t that obvious?" the White Emperor retorted. "Reincarnating through the cycle of six realms with a withered body and a unified soul, what is it for? To gain another lifetime of insight, to start all over again! Those with heavenly talents reincarnate nine times, each life cultivating a different path, and when the nine lives converge at the moment of ultimate return, then, and only then, do they ascend to supremacy! As for reincarnators like you, who simply reim their past cultivation, in the eyes of true transmigrators, you''re merely scrambling to prolong a dying breath,cking the courage to truly re-cultivate. You are seen as the lowest among seekers of the path!"

    The White Emperor, in by such an individual, was understandably bitter, and this moment served as his outburst.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh, remarking, "You, an old man who extends his life by preying on the weak, dare mock my reincarnation and my borrowing of five hundred more years from the heavens?"

    "We''re both puppets of fate, what difference does it really make between us?" the White Emperor retorted harshly.

    "At least I harm no one," Yun Xiao said.

    "You pride yourself on being noble, virtuous, pure. But in the face of the summoning edict, you are nothing. Don''t y the hero; you''re not cut out for it," the White Emperor grew more incensed as he spoke, his discontent evident.

    "I suppose you envy me because I gained a new life without needing any incense offerings. Your spirit is still intact, so you dream of discovering a method of <em>reincarnation</em>''¡ªa method I possess," Yun Xiao said, suddenly turning his back, a coldugh escaping him as he looked over his shoulder at the White Emperor.

    The White Emperor''s spirit quivered at these words. Then heughed again. This time, hisughter was more mocking.

    "Exin again, why youugh," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "You use the prospect of reincarnation to lure me, hoping I''d help you resolve the threat of the summoning edict. Clever approach. But the details give you away. You''re just a lucky spirit who stumbled into reincarnation; you understand nothing of it," the White Emperor scoffed.

    "Damn." Yun Xiao had hoped to deceive him but realized he''d slipped up in the details. He asked Blue Star, "What''s this about everyone being reborn?"

    "This situation is rare; there might be something special in the region, or a particr ce that reces the grand cycle of life and death dictated by the Dao Realm. We''d have to take a closer look to know what it really is," Blue Star exined.

    In essence, their memories, residing at the highest pinnacle of the Dao Realm, made the lower affairs somewhat fuzzy, much like the Creator Immortal''s misunderstanding of human nature.

    "This fellow has stripped me bare; he''ll be hard to use to my advantage now." Yun Xiao felt a headacheing on.

    The White Emperor saw him merely as a lucky reincarnator who had spontaneously regained his past life''s cultivation. In the White Emperor''s eyes, Yun Xiao''s failure to cultivate anew in this life was a sheer waste of his reincarnation, with a very low potential.

    Perhaps this was his peak in life. So now, he truly despised himself. He envied, was jealous, and hated that Yun Xiao had wasted his reincarnation.

    "True masters reincarnate harshly, cultivating one path in one lifetime? That fierce?"

    Such an era would surely lead to much chaos, especially concerning seniority and blood ties. Perhaps scenarios like, "I am your father, but you are also my father" could arise?

    The conclusion now was that once the summoning edict took effect, someone powerful woulde.

    That was undoubtedly very bad news.

    "Yun Xiao..."

    The White Emperor looked at him deeply, "The grand celestial formations of the Five Infernos Star Barrier, Sacred Emperor Barrier, and Thunder Immortal Formation alle from my ancestors. The ancient texts record that my ancestors have ruled for eons, above heaven and earth. Even a mere inch of the Great Dao Celestial Realm is sacred ground to my dynasty! Every inch of the imperialnd must be contested, and you''ve pierced the heavens of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, invoking the karma of life and death. From now on, waiting to die is all you can do."

    "That impressive?" Yun Xiao quirked his lips and said lightly, "Besides waiting to die, I can do one more thing."

    "Dogfight with Lu Fan?" the White Emperorughed.

    "You''re right. After the fight, how about I deliver your supreme ancestors a few heads?" Yun Xiao asked.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The White Emperorughed again, mocking, "Enough, your weakness now is futile; before my n, there are only heads to be taken, no knees to be spared."

    "Brilliant." Yun Xiao gave him a thumbs up, his face rxed, but in his eyes, a fierce fire zed. He knew the celestialdder was long. What tribtionsy beyond the third?

    The path to the Six Ancestral Gods couldn''t be that simple. Yet, as the vast celestial path slowly unfolded before him, Yun Xiao felt no awe. Instead, he was excited, eager, with a desire to devour the skies and roam freely!

    His aspirations had grown so vast that even the Great Dao Celestial Realm could no longer contain them!

    The White Emperor wanted to instill fear in him, but on the contrary, Yun Xiao licked his lips, already famished for the Samsara Gxy.

    "By the way." Yun Xiao looked at the White Emperor, amiably asking, "I have a body double that identally fell into the colorful celestial formation. Where might it go? Can ite back?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "The Samsara Gxy is a realm of endless rebirths! Even just within the domain ruled by my ancestors, reincarnators like you are asmon as sand in a vast desert. The true prodigies of the celestial path, they live too briefly in three lifetimes, attain enlightenment in six, and defy the heavens to be reborn in nine. You rely solely on forcibly unleashing the cultivation of one lifetime, fit only to strut before me. In thisnd where the fire of reincarnation zes, you''re not even worth a scallion!"</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 727: Six Paths of Reincarnation

    Chapter 727: Six Paths of Reincarnation

    ¡°What!¡± The White Emperor''s spirit trembled suddenly, his disbelief evident as he stared at Yun Xiao. Clenching his teeth, he asked, ¡°Are you sure your body double fell in?¡±

    ¡°I''m certain,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    It took a moment for the White Emperor''s face to contort before he said, ¡°So someone really did reach that legendary ce this way¡­¡±

    Looking up at Yun Xiao again, he sneered, ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it, your body double is definitely gone.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°I have nothing to say,¡± the White Emperor replied with a defiant look, fearless even in the face of death.

    ¡°The Immortal Asylum went through as well,¡± Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    ¡°You!¡± The White Emperor stomped his foot in frustration, cursing, ¡°A wasteful destruction of a heavenly treasure!¡±

    ¡°So, you''ll want to live on, to share this news with your ancestors,¡± Yun Xiao stated.¡°Heh.¡± That indeed was the White Emperor''s inner thought, and he didn¡¯t bother to deny it.

    ¡°Tell me, what ce is that, and how do I get back? Otherwise, you¡¯re of no use to me anymore, and I might just start the torture now, without waiting for Lu Fan,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°First, your body double can¡¯t return. Second, if you want to know what that ce is, why don¡¯t you look through your body double¡¯s eyes?¡± the White Emperor replied.

    ¡°Fine¡­¡±

    Today, Yun Xiao had indeed learned quite a bit from the White Emperor.

    ¡°If you''re gonna torture him, why not just do it now? Why wait?¡± Divine Dawn couldn¡¯t stand it anymore.

    ¡°This method I have in mind works better with two. He¡¯s just short of a partner. No hurry,¡± Yun Xiao exined.

    Hearing this, the White Emperor frowned but remained silent. He knew Yun Xiao wouldn¡¯t let him off easy. At this moment, unlike the Crown Prince, he actually hoped Lu Fan would win.

    Just then, the Devil Eye spoke up, ¡°We¡¯ve located the Western Kunlun Pce.¡±

    ¡°Thunder Emissary Cao,¡± Yun Xiao called to the enchantress steering the ship.

    Now she alone was like nine, worthy of an upgrade to the entire Celestial Court''s enchantress, instead of just the Thunder Department''s.

    ¡°Mhm,¡± Cao Shuo turned back, her smile sweet.

    ¡°Full speed ahead!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Mmm."

    "Ah."

    "Oh..."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    A torrent of colorful, chaotic celestial energy surged increasingly fierce, the collisions growing ever more violent.

    This long river-like tunnel, vast and undting with bizarre luminescence, was filled with countless shes of light and melodious harmonies, a surreal dreamscape.

    Yun Xiao''s body double, Moon Fairy, tumbled far down this colorful river, feeling as though even time and space were distorted. The radiant colors on the tunnel''s walls resembled countless brilliant stars, each star dazzling beyond measure.

    Such splendid starlight surely couldn''t belong to the ordinary mortal stars but pointed to Celestial Sourcecores!

    Moon Fairy, peering through two delicate white arms, gazed at this scintiting world, momentarily dazed.

    "The Samsara Gxy? Reincarnation for all? A path to the legendarynds?"

    In this ze of dazzling light, the world suddenly expanded into grandeur.

    "Immortal Yun, there''s a ring of light!"

    The cold,manding voice of the Great Mother, Bai Susu, came with a hint of excitement.

    "I see it!"

    Moon Fairy also saw it. Ahead, in the middle of the river, a dim yellow ring of light appeared, and under the fierce battering of the currents, they were hurtling straight towards it.

    "Hold tight!"

    Moon Fairy roared, and three demons with six hands clutched at anything they could, wrapping tightly into a ball and mming through the ring with a thunderous crash.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A powerful shockwave hit, nearly knocking Yun Xiao''s spirit unconscious. The three demons felt the world spin wildly, as if something had flung them forward, elerating their roll!

    Finally, after some time, their speed began to slow, and the surrounding brilliant lights dimmed.

    <em>THUD! </em>In a daze, the Great Mother''s back hit a dim yellow light wall, bringing them to a stop.

    She let out a soft cry, her flesh trembling from the impact, even her formidable undead body felt the blow.

    Amidst the dim yellow haze, one could see a cold,manding woman with long ck hair like a waterfall, curled up, clutching something tightly...

    "Let go," a voice emerged from her embrace.

    "Yes, Immortal Yun." The Great Mother''s face flushed slightly as she slowly released her hold, revealing a silver-haired fox-eared youth nestled within her ample, round embrace.

    The silver-haired fox-eared youth stood up from the embrace of the beautiful corpse demon, gently loosening his grip, revealing a small girl cradled within.

    It was indeed Moon Fairy and Pale Revenant.

    Finally, the trio came to a stop, but Moon Fairy still felt a bit dazed. Along the way, he had held someone, and then was held himself, sandwiched in the middle... quite well-protected, indeed!

    "Where are we..." Pale Revenant, slightly nervous, tugged at the corner of Moon Fairy''s robe as they arrived in this strange and unknown ce.

    The Great Mother also instinctively drew closer, standing behind them, her eyes alertly scanning the surroundings.

    Moon Fairy''s silver eyes swept around!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Above and below his eyes, a pair of blood-red and dull-yellow eyes appeared, six eyes in total, each turning in different directions to look outward!

    "This yellow mist is a type of celestial energy, quite abundant here, so it obscures the vision a bit, but..." Moon Fairy did not look at the dense fog around him but instead lowered his head to examine the ground under his feet.

    Upon closer inspection, the ground wasposed of countless runes. It was impossible to see just how thick or expansive this rune-covered ground was!

    "It feels like we''ve reached a boundless primordialnd, and we are but three specks of dust in the sandstorm," Moon Fairy murmured.

    Seeing nothing from their position, Moon Fairy decided to move.

    In this unfamiliar realm, with the foundationid by the White Emperor, Yun Xiao was still very cautious. He moved slowly, using Moon Fairy, while the Great Mother and Pale Revenant vigntly watched the nks, the three demons making very little noise.

    "Over there... does it look like a Celestial Sourcecore? It seems evenrger than the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Moon Fairy said after walking a distance, pointing to a spot beneath their feet.

    Their gaze prated the ground''s formation, looking below the array. They could vaguely see a huge red energy body, its bright, piercing red light passing through the numerous runes of the celestial formation under their feet.

    "Indeed, it is a Celestial Sourcecore." The Great Mother nodded.

    "There''s a Celestial Sourcecore, which means there might be cultivators around, but this one is beneath the formation. We''re on top of it; we need to find the edge of the formation to get down," Moon Fairy exined.

    "I actually think this Celestial Sourcecore might be powering the formation itself, rather than housing anyone. We were drawn here by the formation," the Great Mother pondered aloud.

    "Huh, that makes sense," Moon Fairy looked up at her and remarked, "You know quite a bit, don¡¯t you?"

    The Great Mother solemnly nodded, "Naraka was also a Celestial Sourcecore, only its structure was shattered."

    Moon Fairy hummed in agreement and continued forward. He was shocked to find that at intervals beneath the formation, another Celestial Sourcecore appeared, each different in color, energy, and increasinglyrge scale!

    "How many Celestial Sourcecores are supporting this endless celestial formation? What ce is this, truly?"

    Logically, if this formation served as a transit area, it should merely be a <em>station</em> simr to a city gate, not the destination itself.

    With this theory in mind, Moon Fairy rxed his vignce slightly and sped up. His eyes fixed ahead, he broke through the illusions, his intuition telling him something significanty at the end of this boundless celestial formation.

    He walked and walked! After what seemed an eternity, at the end of the dim yellow mist, they saw in the void gigantic blood-red words as vast as Celestial Sourcecores themselves!

    They hung in the sky like stars, illuminating the heavens and earth, casting the entire area in a blood-red hue.

    "What does it say? I can¡¯t read it," Pale Revenant''s voice trembled a bit.

    Moon Fairy bit his lip, took a deep breath, and read aloud, "Six Paths of Reincarnation."

 Chapter 728: The Third Dao Source!

    Chapter 728: The Third Dao Source!

    ¡°Six Paths of Reincarnation?¡±

    Even without knowing the full weight of these words, Pale Revenant and the Great Mother felt a shiver deep within their souls at the mere sight of them.

    The words, drenched in a crimson so deep it seemed to bleed, emitted a chilling, blood-red glow. They had a piercing quality even greater than that of the Celestial Sourcecores, and perhaps only upon closer inspection could one grasp their enormity.

    They appeared as four words, yet also as a mountain of blood poised oppressively over the heads of these three unexpected visitors, suffocating them with its weight.

    Moon Fairy said nothing more and continued to stride toward the direction of the words.

    The Great Mother and Pale Revenant followed in silence.

    As the trio drew nearer, the words swelled in size, hanging over their heads like the Celestial Sourcecores shaped into letters, each asrge as the Celestial Court, pulsating with a dread-inducing blood-colored power.

    But Yun Xiao knew their purpose was likely not to house beings, but rather to serve as a mere <em>signboard</em>¡ªa deration of territory.

    ¡°What kind of ce has an endless teleportation array at its entrance and uses four Celestial Sourcecores as its signboard?¡±¡°How could someone have shaped four Celestial Sourcecores into the form of words?¡±

    Despite Yun Xiao''s extensive experience within the Great Dao Celestial Realm, he was still profoundly shaken.

    The invisible oppressive force of the four bloody words weighed directly on their hearts!

    ¡°That direction¡­¡±

    Quickly, the silver eyes of Moon Fairy, as well as those of the Great Mother and Pale Revenant, saw it.

    At the end of their sight, right below the four bloody words, a boundless ck shadow finally appeared.

    This shadow was so vast that its edges were indiscernible; the words served as itsbel. From the perspective of Moon Fairy, it looked like an endless ck wall, obscuring everything.

    The whole world seemed swallowed by darkness.

    A primordial, vast, eerie, and sinister celestial energy surged from that direction. This ck power carried with it an inherentment, sweeping past with the soul-chilling cries of ghosts and howls of wolves.

    The Great Mother¡¯s face turned pale, and she couldn¡¯t help but reach out her hand to steady Pale Revenant¡¯s head, trying to calm her own nerves.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid,¡± Pale Revenant said, pulling away her hand and gently sping the Great Mother¡¯s pinky, reassuringly.

    At that moment, Moon Fairy stopped and seemed to talk to himself.

    ¡°A coffin?¡±

    His silver eyes looked down. The one who had just mentioned the <em>coffin</em> was the newly arrived Yaksha Ancestor.

    ¡°Heh.¡± The Yaksha Ancestor rolled its eyes, uninterested in engaging with Moon Fairy.

    ¡°No need for that monkey to say anything, I¡¯ll say it,¡± the Nian quickly interjected, ¡°Indeed, this ck shadow is an immense coffin.¡±

    Hearing this, the Yaksha Ancestor sneered, ¡°Parrot what you hear, that¡¯s all you can do with those cloudy eyes of yours. What can you see, mutt?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re no different. Don¡¯t pretend. Those who know, know,¡± the Nian chuckled.

    The Yaksha Ancestor, for now at least, held a deep aversion to it.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    His crimson eyes flickered as he gazed into the ck shadow and spoke lightly, "This is a Sourcecore Sanctuary shaped like a rectangle, resembling a coffin. Its form,bined with the abundant dark power of death within, makes it appear from afar like a cosmic coffin."

    Yun Xiao was well familiar with the concept of a cosmic coffin.

    However, unlike the ancient bronze coffin, which was genuine, this ck shadow was essentially a variation of a Celestial Sourcecore, or rather, a real world.

    A Sourcecore Sanctuary was akin to a special type of Celestial Sourcecore simr to the one of Naraka. When the internal structure of a spherical Celestial Sourcecore copsed, it would transform into a Sourcecore Sanctuary. The Celestial Sourcecore''s energy depleted quicker, creating a harsher environment for existence.

    Put simply, it was the gradual death of a Celestial Sourcecore. The duration of its copse depended on the Sourcecore Sanctuary''s size and degree of decay; some perished quickly, while others formed new structures and endured for eons.

    "Does this mean the Sixth Paths of Reincarnation here is a sanctuary simr to Naraka?" Moon Fairy murmured to himself.

    The four bloody words above were the sign for the ck shadow below, known as the Six Paths of Reincarnation.

    "Samsara Gxy, Six Paths of Reincarnation, a ce of legend... I wonder if this ce rtes to rebirth." Yun Xiao gazed at the ck shadow, pondering.

    A rectangr Celestial Sourcecore, vast as an endless ck coffin, appeared before them¡ªmysterious, immense, eerie, and chilling!

    "Hmm?" Suddenly, Moon Fairy''s expression shifted to one of disbelief.

    "What is it?" Pale Revenant asked softly.

    "Nothing," Moon Fairy replied with a slight smile, "We have a target now."

    The Great Mother and Pale Revenant, including the Nian and Yaksha Ancestor, were all puzzled, not understanding his crypticment.

    In fact, as Moon Fairy approached this Sixth Paths of Reincarnation coffin sanctuary, his true body elsewhere felt the third ck Primordial Coffin tremble again.

    "This Six Paths of Reincarnation is a Dao Source!"

    It was the third Dao Source that Yun Xiao had encountered after the Divine Pir and Demon Continent.

    The previous two Dao Sources had transformed into the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and the Prison Warden Sigil, bing two powerful means for the Creator Immortal''s rebirth, transcending his past life.

    What of this Six Paths of Reincarnation then?

    "To possess it, one must first understand it, control it, and assimte it..."

    For now, not to mention his true self was not present, the gap between Moon Fairy and this boundless ck coffin was more than just a little.

    "Yaksha Ancestor, how muchrger is this coffin worldpared to Naraka?" Moon Fairy asked earnestly.

    Since Moon Fairy devoured it, bringing it here to witness this vast world, the Yaksha Ancestor''s heart was certainly changing. Perhaps it was beginning to understand the feelings described by the Nian.

    Although it had merely exchanged one prison for another, at least this human-formed prison allowed sight, movement, speech...

    It was a step up from the tedious and lonely Immortal Asylum.

    The Immortal Asylum was truly dreadful, with its endless silence and solitude, punctuated only by the brutal roars of other Sins of Heaven.

    So, after Moon Fairy asked his question, the Yaksha Ancestor calmly replied, ¡°About 3,000 timesrger.¡±

    ¡°Three thousand!¡± Moon Fairy was somewhat taken aback.

    Naraka''s Sourcecore Sanctuary was copsing, but it was nearly as vast as the Great Dao Celestial Realm. This meant that this coffin-shaped Six Paths of Reincarnation world was about 3,000 times the size of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    Imagine, 3,000 Great Dao Celestial Realmsbined; how vast would that be?

    ¡°No wonder I can feel the celestial energy from this world from such a distance, even though it¡¯s wildly cold and violent, it¡¯s still ten times denser than that of the Great Dao Celestial Realm,¡± Moon Fairy eximed in awe.

    ¡°If you could get inside, it would be at least 1,000 denser, not even on the same level,¡± the Yaksha Ancestor stated coldly.

    ¡°Yeah, right!¡± the Nian chuckled dismissively.

    ¡°Useless mutt, no one asked you,¡± the Yaksha Ancestor hissed.

    ¡°Silly monkey, silly monkey, with a butt for a head,¡± the Nian taunted.

    ¡°You stupid mutt, stooping to childish insults. I feel bad for your mother for raising such an idiot!¡±

    "I''m rubber, and you''re glue¡­!.¡±

    ¡°¡­¡±

    As the conflict escted, Moon Fairy tuned out the venomous exchanges of these two Sins of Heaven.

    Fighting between the eyes above and the eyes below was headache enough.

    Turning back, Moon Fairy smiled at the two corpse demons and said, ¡°We can¡¯t return to the Great Dao Celestial Realm. But since we''re here, let''s try and adapt. My true self will figure out a way to deal with Lu Fan. From today, you are with me on a new mission.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the new mission?¡± Pale Revenant asked, her eyes brightening, her confused heart suddenly finding direction.

    Moon Fairy looked toward the boundless ck shadow ahead, all six of his eyes brimming with intense purpose.

    ¡°To devour the Six Paths of Reincarnation!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The vault of heaven stretched out, a void of bleakness. In this gray world, only the dim starlight above and the zing Celestial Sourcecore behind illuminated the expanse.

    "Yun Xiao, there! The Western Kunlun Pce lies ahead!" The Devil Eye solemnly pierced the cosmos with a beam of red light that cut through the dense smoke ahead.

    "I see it too," Cao Shuo manned the helm, her tone as serious as her quickening pulse.

    They both knew the imminent sh would decide the fate of all beings in the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    Through the thick smoke, Yun Xiao''s eyes caught sight of a colossal azure bird, thrice the size of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark.

    Cao Shuo turned, her gaze solemn. "The Western Kunlun Pce is guarded by the Azure Bird Mystical Array. If we attack, the celestial array will suppress our powers, weakening us."

    "Oh¡­"

    The strength of the Chaos Soul they were about to confront was unknown; charging in recklessly was a poor strategy.

    However, Yun Xiao barely hesitated before instructing Cao Shuo, "Drive the Nine Thunders Divine Ark at full speed and ram it into the rear of the azure bird."

    "That would tear the divine ark apart in the Azure Bird Mystical Array," Cao Shuo frowned.

    "Is there a chance we could break through the celestial array?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Nine Thunders Divine Ark is renowned for its speed. A full-speed collision might just do it," Cao Shuo responded gravely.

    "Then no more words. elerate and ram!" Yun Xiaomanded.

    "You should evacuate the ark first." Cao Shuo¡¯s temperament was decisive.

    "Do you have a n to escape before the collision?" Yun Xiao asked earnestly.

    "I can jump ship in an emergency. No big deal." Cao Shuo felt warmed by his concern and nodded.

    "After you escape, stay clear of the battlefield and leave the rest to us. Don¡¯t get close; we can¡¯t afford to have you taken hostage," Yun Xiao cautioned.

    Cao Shuo chuckled wryly at this, giving Yun Xiao a bemused look. "You silly boy, do you think I¡¯m some headstrong young heroine? I¡¯ve survived this long by ying it safe. I¡¯m just the helmsman here; only a fool would rush into your high-stakes game. Sure, I''d be lonely without my man, but death is another matter."

    Yun Xiao rolled his eyes; she truly was a woman free of constraints.

    "Alright, hit it!"

    Yun Xiao, along with the Devil Eye, Divine Dawn, and the War Princess, said no more and evacuated the ark. They circled around to approach the Western Kunlun Pce from the side.

    As the group disembarked, the Nine Thunders Divine Ark thundered to life, its celestial power surging as it propelled forward like a lightning bolt, a thunderous swordfish slicing through the sky. It shed brilliantly as it charged towards the unsuspecting Western Kunlun Pce, whichy dormant, its energy consumption at its lowest, utterly unguarded...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    ¡°Useless mutt, no one asked you,¡± the Yaksha Ancestor hissed.

    ¡°Silly monkey, silly monkey, with a butt for a head,¡± the Nian taunted.

    ¡°You stupid mutt, stooping to childish insults. I feel bad for your mother for raising such an idiot!¡±

    "I''m rubber, and you''re glue¡­!.¡±</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 729: May You Have a Conscience in Your Next Life!

    Chapter 729: May You Have a Conscience in Your Next Life!

    In that fleeting moment, a dazzling sh of lightning tore through the dense smoke, issuing a deafening roar as it struck the rear of the azure bird.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A heaven-splitting explosion reverberated as lightning and storm collided, creating a wave of azure that swept across the void.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Amid the relentless sts, the Nine Thunders Divine Ark disintegrated at a visible speed, pulverized between the shes of lightning, showcasing the formidable defense of the Azure Bird Mystical Array.

    Given the size of the Nine Thunders Divine Ark, it happened just as Yun Xiao had predicted, smashing a bright gap in the rear of the Western Kunlun Pce. The remnants of the ark, like severed limbs, crashed into the pce, instantly reducing the once splendid and elegant court to ashes amidst the shes of destruction.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The sound of explosions continued unabated.

    ¡°The Azure Bird Mystical Array has copsed!" the Devil Eye noted with utmost rity.

    With those words, Yun Xiao waited no longer. He, along with Divine Dawn and the War Princess, transformed in an instant into three streaks of light¡ªtwo white and one red¡ªand surged into the Western Kunlun Pce.

    Upon entering, the War Princess sniffed and remarked, "It¡¯s deserted here, hardly a soul!"

    "No one?" Yun Xiao''s face clouded slightly."There''s someone here!" Divine Dawn dered, then surged forward, her form engulfed in white lightning, towards a certain direction.

    Not to be outdone on her first solo mission requested of Yun Xiao, the War Princess leaped forward, her long legs propelling her through the air, transforming into a weing trail of blood. Like a blood dragon, she even managed to overtake Divine Dawn''s lightning tiger.

    Speaking of which, it seemed both shared a rtion to the Six Ancestral Gods¡ªthe Primordial Immortal Ancestor and Mortal Dust Devil!

    In the eyes of the War Princess, a golden figure was trying to escape.

    "It¡¯s a man!"

    With a low growl, she charged forward. Her delicate body, forged from Mortal Dust Devil Blood, had often been underused by Yun Xiao in battles. Now, having it to herself¡ªa deviless with a bnced mix of physical prowess, magic, and celestial weapons¡ªproved quite effective.

    At the very least, in terms of raw strength, she was stronger than Divine Dawn.

    Divine Dawn, despite mastering the Primordial Martial Arts, still bore a human''s body. Her strengthsy more in celestial power and dao techniques, harnessing the Primordial Doom Stars mainly through celestial power.

    Now, in terms ofbat prowess, the Seventh Princess, upying ny percent, outshone Lian Xi, who could barely im ten percent. As for Chen Xi, she was valued more for her brains than brawn...

    "Not a man, that''s a woman. It''s the Combat Sovereign," Yun Xiao cautioned the War Princess from behind.

    "No difference!"

    In the War Princess¡¯s hand materialized a blood-red war cleaver, the Sanguine Phantom! It was a gift from the Devil Eye, the strongest celestial treasure of Naraka, on par with the four great celestial treasures of the White Emperor.

    <em>BOOM! </em>She suddenly reached behind the Combat Sovereign, her saber shing wildly while her other hand summoned countless blood-red vines from the ground, entangling the Combat Sovereign''s legs.

    These vines were barbed, endless, and relentless.

    On their way here, Yun Xiao had gleaned some secrets of the Celestial Devil Abyss from the Devil Eye, including this Sea of Blood Vines, which the War Princess now wielded with ease.

    "Sea of Blood Vines!"

    The Combat Sovereign recognized the technique, thinking it was the Devil Eye intervening, which sent a shock through her.

    Turning around, she saw not the Devil Eye but a fiery, young female Yin Devil at work!

    Yin Devils, highly coveted as elite consorts in the Celestial Court, were a favorite indulgence of the Combat Sovereign, who was herself a woman.

    Now, being pursued by a female Yin Devil wielding the Sea of Blood Vines seemed utterly surreal to her.

    But she had no time to react. The Sea of Blood Vines enveloped her, trapping her in a bloody inferno. In the next instant, the Sanguine Phantom descended with a tide of blood.

    "Hmph, mere showy tricks..." The Combat Sovereign scorned the Yin Devil, typically born to be ythings, and countered with her celestial saber.

    However, her expression drastically changed the next moment!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The War Princess unleashed a heaven-defying power. The Sanguine Phantom instantly split the celestial saber in two, severing the Combat Sovereign''s arm and, as the Sea of Blood Vines acted like venomous dragons, tore into her elegant body, riddling it with holes, making her resemble a honebed blood hive.

    "AGHHH!" The Combat Sovereign was grievously injured, overwhelmed in a single move, her face pallid as she spat blood, immobilized.

    The twisting Sea of Blood Vines now dictated her fate, entirely at the mercy of the War Princess.

    "Damn that wretched female Yin Devil..." The Combat Sovereign couldn''t finish her curse before the War Princess shed her mouth wide open, cleaving it to her ear, her tongue hanging out limply.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn appeared before the Combat Sovereign.

    "There''s one here." Divine Dawn pointed to the ground nearby.

    Therey a man with a dull gaze, devoid of strength even as the power of the Azure Bird Mystical Array faded around him.

    It was none other than the once-mighty Crown Prince.

    Cao Shuo also realized that the Western Kunlun Pce was deserted. Upon entering and seeing the Crown Prince, she couldn''t help but kick him, cursing, "You dog, you got what you deserved! You dared to dere me a major criminal of the Celestial Court, and now your entire n are the criminals."

    The struggle for session seemed to be over for the imperial family, thanks in part to Cao Shuo''s perseverance.

    "Only the Crown Prince and the Combat Sovereign left," Yun Xiao frowned, asking the Devil Eye, "Can''t you find Lu Fan''s location?"

    "He must have sensed my presence and erected a soul barrier. It''s a bit hard to find him quickly," the Devil Eye admitted with regret.

    "Then there''s only one other way to find out." Yun Xiao walked up to the Combat Sovereign, staring coldly at the bloodied woman before him.

    "Ha!" The Combat Sovereign scoffed disdainfully, her voice chilling. "Forget it. You could kill me a thousand, ten thousand times, and I still wouldn''t tell you where he is."

    "Just a middle-aged ugly brute. Why do you noblewomen of the Celestial Court love him so desperately?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "A man''s value is in their capability, what''s appearance worth? You, a pretty boy, can''t evenst a moment in front of a real man like him," the Combat Sovereign sneered.

    "Do you even have a brain? I defeated the White Emperor, yet he hides from me, and you still praise him?" Yun Xiao retorted incredulously.

    "Lu Fan is supreme, and you''re just a street rat..." The Combat Sovereign burst into defiantughter.

    <em>SLASH! </em>Yun Xiao beheaded her with a swift stroke of his sword, ending the tiresome spectacle.

    He then used his sword to coax the Combat Sovereign''s spirit out, and even in this state, her spirit looked at Yun Xiao with disdain, bragging, "Go on, destroy my spirit! To die for him is my eternal honor."

    "She''s bewitched." Yun Xiao manifested his own spirit, the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, which appeared before the Combat Sovereign''s spirit. He pressed his palm to her forehead.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Inside the head of her spirit, a golden-ck lotus flower melted under the influence of Yun Xiao''s spirit.

    "Uh..." The spirit of the Combat Sovereign suddenly staggered, clutching her throat as if pained, struggling to breathe.

    "Understand now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I understand, I understand..." The Combat Sovereign slowly knelt down, wailing piteously without tears.

    "Where is he?" Yun Xiao pressed.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Ster Spring of Life. It holds the waters that connect to countless mortal stars, allowing him to rapidly devour the souls of many beings..." the Combat Sovereign said mournfully.

    Suddenly, she fell to her knees before Yun Xiao, pleading urgently, "We were wrong! All of us. Please, you must stop him, I beg you! I no longer wish tomit these sins. It must end!"

    "Maybe in your next life, you''ll have a conscience."

    With a press of his spirit, Yun Xiao liberated the Combat Sovereign''s spirit.

    "Ster Spring of Life!"

    With urgency in his voice, Yun Xiao turned to the Devil Eye.

    "This old one knows the ce," the Devil Eye hurriedly replied.

    Regrettably, the Nine Thunders Divine Ark was destroyed, and the Western Kunlun Pce was unusable.

    Fortunately, the Devil Eye mentioned that the Ster Spring of Life wasn''t far!

    "What about him?" Cao Shuo pointed at the Crown Prince.

    The Crown Prince opened his eyes, saw Yun Xiao, and tears ofplexity streamed down his face as he trembled, "Spare my life, please. I wish to see Lu Fan meet his downfall."

    "That''s not an unreasonable request," Yun Xiao conceded.

    He grabbed the pitiful figure of the Crown Prince, preparing to rush towards the Ster Spring of Life.

    At that moment, an unexpected event urred!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Nearby, the starlight started surging.

    Yun Xiao turned to see a giant, colorful magic circle forming in the void amidst dazzling light.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A figure radiant with divine light began to solidify within that colorful array.

    As this scene unfolded, the Crown Prince shuddered, his eyes widening with manic joy, his voice hoarse as he instinctively shouted, "Ancestor, Ancestor... You''vee quickly, haha..."

    "Indeed, quite promptly," Yun Xiao murmured, taking a deep breath.

    In the next moment, he decapitated the Crown Prince, then said to Divine Dawn, "No matter who arrives, tell him you are the Seventh Princess, the only survivor of the imperial family."

 Chapter 730: Divine Imperial Son!

    Chapter 730: Divine Imperial Son!

    Chen Xi was a woman of frosty intelligence. Back in the Heavenly Realm, her cooperation with Yun Xiao had always been nothing short of perfect. So, at this moment, she clearly understood why Yun Xiao decisively beheaded the Crown Prince and imprisoned his spirit.

    With a humming sound, the Crown Prince¡¯s body, which had clung to life for so many years, also turned to dust under the violet mes in Yun Xiao¡¯s hand. His death was quite unexpected.

    After he perished, the colorful lights of the celestial formation shone even more brilliantly, illuminating the dim cosmos.

    Watching the radiant figures within the celestial formation, Yun Xiao somewhat wished he could strike with his sword before the arrival wasplete, to leave the neer dead before even touching the ground...

    However, he decided against it. The risk was too great! What he truly wished to resolve now was the threat of the Chaos Soul. With a third party intervening without known intentions, caution was paramount.

    At this moment, Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, and the War Princess, among others, all wore grave expressions.

    ¡°You two, step back,¡± Yun Xiao instructed the Devil Eye and Cao Shuo.

    The Devil Eye had other uses, and Thunder Emissary Cao had low self-preservation abilities; neither were fit to meet this forebear''s messenger.

    ¡°Understood!¡±Cao Shuo and Devil Eye nodded, quietly retreating into the distant fog to await further orders.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, and the War Princess advanced towards the colorful celestial formation.

    Yun Xiao stepped back, allowing Divine Dawn to lead this perilous and uncertain meeting.

    They were all eager to reach the Ster Spring of Life! But with the forebear''s arrival imminent, it was crucial to harness this power... otherwise, it would be exploited by others. Or it could bring even greater trouble.

    Under their solemn gazes, the celestial formation shed brightly onest time, like fireworks at their most brilliant, before suddenly vanishing.

    The celestial formation disappeared, but the person had arrived!

    All the colorful lights of the celestial formation converged on this figure, uniting into a white torrent that ultimately solidified into a wless white celestial robe on the figure.

    The celestial formation itself became his robe, a testament to his lofty status.

    The moment this individual appeared, he brought with him an intangible pressure.

    As the colorful light faded, Yun Xiao fixed his gaze forward.

    He saw a figure, a young man in white, handsome with arched brows and bright eyes, carrying himself with an air of grandeur. His skin emitted a faint luminescence, his presence lofty and profound. His face was noble, his eyes deep with meaning, like a pir holding up the sky, embodying the essence of standing tall and unyielding.

    Such an image surpassed even the righteous emperors and princes in terms of dignity and rectitude, shining like a radiant sun, casting warmth and hope.

    Most striking was the halo vertically positioned behind his head, clinging closely as if it grew from his brain.

    This visage, identical to that of an Immortal as described in mortal myths, referred to this halo as a <em>corona</em>, a symbol of divinity, nobility, and celestial power.

    Yun Xiao could also sense a unique power within the corona, different from the Dao Heart or spirit¡ªa seemingly higher dimension that was not only aesthetically supreme but surely possessed extraordinary functions.

    At the very least, the presence of this halo made Yun Xiao feel as if this man was isted from the world, as if surrounded by an imprable shield that neither gazes nor spiritual forces could prate to discern his true nature.

    So, his strength was difficult to gauge.

    Given the disturbances caused by his celestial formation, he might very well have the power to destroy heavens and reverse the cosmic flow.

    Such a forebear''s emissary undoubtedly introduced many unpredictable impacts to the current situation.

    Yun Xiao gave Divine Dawn a look, signaling her to take the lead in greeting.

    Divine Dawn nodded.

    At this time, the young man in white had absorbed the light of the celestial formation. He took a deep breath to stabilize the power within him, then began to survey this world, so alien to him.

    His first nce naturally fell upon the trio of Yun Xiao.

    As the young man''s eyes locked onto them, Yun Xiao felt as if the very world around them tightened,pressing every pore on his body with a palpable sense of pressure.

    The young man in white stared at them for a long while, his profound gaze sweeping over Divine Dawn, the War Princess, and Yun Xiao, his expression unfathomably calm.

    His voice was deep and maic, breaking the silence with amand, "Dere your identities."

    Divine Dawn slightly bowed her head and responded, "Humbly addressing the ancestor''s emissary, I am Shen Xi, daughter of the ruler of this realm. May I inquire how to address you, sir?"

    The young man in white spoke inly, "I am the Ancestral Divine Imperial Son."

    After hearing this, Yun Xiao could not tell if this title referred to the Emperor''s son or brother.

    "I greet the Divine Imperial Son," the young woman in white said respectfully, her demeanor quite proper.

    The Divine Imperial Son nodded, his dazzling halo following as he approached the trio, casually asking, "Who has issued the Ancestral Summoning? What is the matter?"

    "It was me!" Divine Dawnposed herself, her voice tinged with sadness, "To inform the Divine Imperial Son, this realm was once prosperous and peaceful. However, in recent years, a reincarnated fiend emerged. This wicked being hasmitted untold atrocities, defying celestialws, and has recently waged war using despicable means to assassinate my father, the Emperor, and my imperial brothers, massacring my kinsfolk. Our n has been wiped out, the cosmic order has copsed, and I alone remain, struggling to persevere."

    "A reincarnated one? Has reincarnated here? And exterminated your entire n?" The Divine Imperial Son furrowed his brows, his eyes shing coldly, "Where is this reincarnated one now? I will obliterate his soul, denying him any further chance of reincarnation."

    "I know his location, Divine Imperial Son, please follow me," Divine Dawn said quietly.

    Her delicate and touching appearance, speaking in Lian Xi''s soft and appealing tone, surely drew sympathy¡ªa natural advantage that Yun Xiao envied.

    In just a few words, the Divine Imperial Son believed her.

    As they set off, she appeared anxious and said to the Divine Imperial Son, "This wicked being is named Lu Fan, a fiend skilled in soul control. He has deceived my mother and many other women, usurping my father''s harem. Now, he has gone mad, cultivating an All Life Empress Gu, intending to devour the souls of all living beings and extinguish humanity!"

    "Life-force, is it? Daring to meddle with that is indeed a death wish." The Divine Imperial Son''s eyes grew colder, his intent to kill rising.

    In just a few sentences, Divine Dawn had pinned Yun Xiao''s ughter and the disaster of the Celestial Court''s life-force entirely on Lu Fan.

    Her words of shifting me, coupled with her appealing image, made it difficult for any outsider to disbelieve her, especially given her identity as the seventh imperial princess.

    Moreover, she had mentioned the soul control of Empress Zhao and others; if any discrepancies were revealedter, she could simply im these celestial women were bewitched.

    The Divine Imperial Son was decisive, asking Divine Dawn to lead the way, and the four of them quickly headed towards the Ster Spring of Life.

    During this time, Yun Xiao sent a flying talisman to Cao Shuo nearby.

    "What are you sending?" the Divine Imperial Son noticed and scrutinized Yun Xiao with a piercing gaze.

    "I''m arranging for more people to protect the civilians in the mortal realm, to prevent excessive damage from the uing battle," Yun Xiao respectfully said.

    "An unnecessary precaution," the Divine Imperial Son said, displeased.

    He meant that dealing with Lu Fan would not cause much disturbance.

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao bowed his head.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Though the flying talisman was already sent, the Divine Imperial Son did not pursue the matter further...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    As they set off, she appeared anxious and said to the Divine Imperial Son, "This wicked being is named Lu Fan, a fiend skilled in soul control. He has deceived my mother and many other women, usurping my father''s harem. Now, he has gone mad, cultivating an All Life Empress Gu, intending to devour the souls of all living beings and extinguish humanity!"</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 731: Half of His Heart

    Chapter 731: Half of His Heart

    Yun Xiao had sent the flying talisman urging Cao Shuo to hasten back to the Heavenly Pce, to seek out Gu Suwan and Yue Yin. He was to recount the situation with the Divine Imperial Son, advising them to disband the Immortal armies and clear the Heavenly Pce, thus averting the risk of exposing the truth should the Divine Son venture there.

    The ideal scenario now would see the Divine Imperial Son annihte Lu Fan and then return to the imperial family''s ancestralnd. If he chose not to return but to survey the current state of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, it was crucial he avoided any casual interactions with ordinary Immortals.

    Such a high-ranking figure was unlikely to question just anyone. Yet, Yun Xiao remained vignt to prevent any unforeseen incidents.

    "Is the Divine Imperial Son wary he might alert that wicked being?" Divine Dawn inquired with her keen mind.

    The young man in white showed a somewhat warmer attitude towards Divine Dawn, replying nonchntly, "Trust in your people if you believe they are trustworthy."

    Divine Dawn nodded gently, ncing at Yun Xiao, "This is Yun Xiao, my husband. We''ve shared life and death together for many years, and he is a sworn enemy of that wicked being."

    "Your husband?" The Divine Imperial Son pursed his lips, looking at Yun Xiao and then chuckled, "To be favored by the princess, you must indeed be a rare talent in this realm."

    "You tter me, sire. I am but a humble soul," Yun Xiao said.

    "You three are quite young, yet you embody the hope of a realm. That ismendable," the Divine Imperial Son remarked, then nced at the War Princess, asking, "And her?"Divine Dawn responded casually, "A Yin Devil servant, quite exceptional, very attentive."

    Inside, the War Princess cursed her a thousand times, but her face showed a gentle smile as she greeted, "Greetings to the Divine Imperial Son."

    The Divine Imperial Son nodded but said no more, instead closely following behind Divine Dawn, his expression solemn as they broke through the expanse.

    His gaze lingered, unsure if it rested more on Divine Dawn''s slender waist and pert figure or the dark clouds obscuring the horizon ahead.

    Suddenly, he asked Divine Dawn, "Little princess, how old are you, and what is your cultivation?"

    Divine Dawn turned and responded, "I''m 15 years old in the Late Night God Realm."

    "Night God Realm? That sounds more like the Death Realm," the Divine Imperial Son teased the term but appeared genuinely impressed by Divine Dawn''s talents.

    "At the tender age of 15, nearing the transition from death to life, roaming the vast cosmos, in our ancestors'' view, you too would be considered a remarkable presence."

    As he spoke, the Divine Imperial Son casually added, "By the way, I have an aunt who is hailed as a supreme Immortal sovereign of our age, blessed by a thousand stars, revered by countless Immortals, far more exalted than I..."

    Speaking of his aunt, his eyes shone with respect, and he seemed quite moved. Then, looking at Divine Dawn, he chuckled lightly, "At thest family gathering, I heard my aunt express a desire to find a disciple of pure heart and exceptional kindness to pass on her legacy."

    Divine Dawn asked softly, ¡°What the Divine Imperial Son suggests is...¡±

    The Divine Imperial Son smiled, saying, ¡°I find you quite suitable. Should you be willing, once we have dealt with that wicked being, you could apany me to our forebears. However, my aunt is exceedingly strict; I can''t guarantee she''ll ept you.¡±

    ¡°The Divine Imperial Son¡¯s aunt, her expectations for a sessor... I dare not even contemte them... Perhaps...¡± Divine Dawn murmured, looking down.

    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t think so little of yourself; trust my judgment. If she doesn¡¯t ept you, I¡¯ll simply bring you back,¡± the Divine Imperial Son paused, ¡°I merely see a certain radiance in you that shouldn''t be buried in this gloomy ce.¡±

    He cast out this <em>dream</em>, knowing full well that no seeker of immortality could refuse such a pivotal opportunity to ascend the celestialdder.

    After speaking, the Divine Imperial Son smiled at Divine Dawn as if he had already foreseen her answer.

    At that moment, Divine Dawn nced at Yun Xiao and asked softly, ¡°Divine Imperial Son, if I go to our forebears, may I bring my family?¡±

    The Divine Imperial Son hesitated, then shook his head. ¡°That won¡¯t do. Our ancestral home is a gathering ce for the elite of the Immortal path, consisting solely of the most pure and exalted seekers. With your foundation still unsteady, you cannot let worldly affairs disturb your pursuit of immortality.¡±

    Divine Dawn bit her lip, falling silent.

    The Divine Imperial Son sighed softly. ¡°The affections of youth are understandable, but the path of cultivation is destined to be lonely. Only by severing mundane ties can one be a true Immortal.¡±

    His words, indeed,id out a stark doctrine, a direction. But to speak like this in front of Yun Xiao, it was clear his words were well-intended but utterly disregarded Yun Xiao''s feelings.

    Any man hearing this might feel utterly diminished, for who would want their personal affections to hinder their loved one''s prospects?

    Such words were a crushing blow to anymoner.

    Yun Xiao took it with a grain of salt, his heartughing off the absurdity.

    ¡°Indeed¡­¡± Lian Xi bit her lip, visibly struggling.

    ¡°Think it over! At your prime, you should let your brilliance shine on the path to immortality. If he is a sensible man, he will surely manage your homnd well and wait for you peacefully.¡± The Divine Imperial Son pped Divine Dawn¡¯s shoulder, his words also intended for Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Mhm.¡± Divine Dawn nodded, her face a mask of struggle, while Yun Xiao, having thoughts of his own, came to her side.

    The Divine Imperial Son, knowing they needed to speak, stepped back to join the War Princess, heading towards the Ster Spring of Life while eyeing the War Princess asionally.

    Ahead, Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn broke through the winds together.

    The Devil Eye directed them towards the Ster Spring of Life, an easyndmark to find.

    ¡°Do you really want to go?¡± Yun Xiao asked with a smirk.

    ¡°What else? Didn¡¯t you hear him? To be a supreme Immortal, one must first sever worldly ties,¡± Divine Dawn said, pouting slightly as she looked ahead.

    ¡°Sever what? It¡¯s just a cliched plot where you ditch the poor boy to join the ranks of the exalted Immortal elite,¡± Yun Xiao retorted.

    Divine Dawn spoke, a note of boredomced with realization in her voice. "It''s dreadfully dull, but it''s indeed an opportunity."

    "Alright, then I''m happy for you," Yun Xiao responded deeply, truly pleased for her.

    Why was he pleased? Because she, as the incarnation of transcending cmity, had not taken her own life! It was against all reason, bordering on the impossible.

    Her journey to her ancestralnd was predicated on theplete annihtion of Lu Fan.

    In addition to the annihtion of the White Emperor and his dynasty, that meant there were no more threats to humanity.

    Normally, this would be the point an incarnation of transcending cmity would convince herself that she needed to die. Yet, here she was, not only surviving but thriving!

    Back in the Heavenly Realm, Chen Xi had been muttering like a madwoman about ascending to the heavens in full virtue after defeating the Demon Continent¡­ And now, she was contemting her future path!

    Did this mean she might have escaped her fate as the incarnation of transcending cmity?

    Could she have be a more genuine, more independent, more lovable girl? If so, no matter where she wished to spread her wings and soar, Yun Xiao would rejoice for her.

    "You''re not going to stop me?" Divine Dawn eyed him with a touch of annoyance.

    "I respect you," Yun Xiao said simply.

    "Is it because you have so many women, you won¡¯t miss one more?" Divine Dawn bit her lip, her small canines showing.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "How could that be? I¡¯m missing just your type of pure desire, and now you want to leave," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Go to hell!" Divine Dawn snapped, angered by his words and unwilling to engage further.

    Though she wished to break through the illusions before her and see greater worlds, deep down, she hoped he would persuade her to stay, or find a way to go with her. Not with the kind of persuasion that belittled her to one of his preferences.

    "Don''t be angry." Yun Xiao suddenly took her hand gently. "Lu Fan isn¡¯t dead yet. We shouldn''t underestimate him; overlooking his capabilities could lead to dire consequences."

    "Right." Divine Dawn suppressed her swirling emotions and nodded, calming down.

    But she was a straightforward person, troubled by the current ambiguities, so she looked at Yun Xiao with grave seriousness and demanded, "Tell me honestly, what am I to you? A ything, a conquest, or just another mess?"

    Yun Xiao paused for a moment, then quickly wiped the smile off his face and whispered earnestly, "You want my honest answer?"

    "From the heart, just like your Dao Heart¡ªno deceit, no disguise. Speak with your heart," Divine Dawn said, her eyes slightly red as she looked at him.

    The tension between them was palpable, and from behind, it appeared as though they were quarreling.

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath, his gaze bing serious and resolute.

    "In this life, the only people who have truly touched my heart are my Senior Sister Zhao and you," he said.

    Hearing no mention of the War Princess or Cao Shuo, she snorted, seemingly satisfied.

    But still, she pouted and asked, "What''s so special about your Senior Sister Zhao that you can''t forget?"

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t need to think, he blurted out, "I don¡¯t know. It¡¯s just engraved in my heart, unforgettable even in death, and there¡¯s no reason for it."

    "Oh¡­"

    His words left Divine Dawn silent. Because such a description spoke of a love, an obsession, truly carved deep into the bones.

    "Anything else?" Divine Dawn asked.

    "Uh... also, she¡¯s pregnant," Yun Xiao said, scratching his head.

    "Damn it..." Divine Dawn''s vision blurred as if struck by a heavy blow, cursing in frustration, "Truly fertile, I admit, such women neverck for luck."

    Despite her reaction, hearing this seemed to dissolve the barriers in her heart.

    Honesty and sincerity, at times, were virtues in themselves. Though she only upied <em>half </em>of his heart, she epted it.

    "Anything else you need to say?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "With a formidable enemy before us, let''s drop this subject; it¡¯s inappropriate," Divine Dawn responded.

    "It was you who started it," Yun Xiao said.

    "Not me!" Divine Dawn hinted at the Divine Imperial Son behind them.

    "Does he think he can handle Lu Fan?" Yun Xiao asked quietly.

    "Let''s see!" Divine Dawn replied.

    "Alright."

    After speaking, Yun Xiao stepped back, his face souring into an expression of deep frustration.

    All of this seemed to be within the Divine Imperial Son''s expectations.

    He smiled, speaking earnestly to Yun Xiao, "You are both still young, and time is on your side; there will be opportunities."

    "Thank you, Divine Imperial Son," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Mhm, oh right."

    The Divine Imperial Son moved forward, addressing Divine Dawn, "Though the path to immortality does not allow family, a servant can apany you to tend to your daily needs, care for beasts, and cultivate celestial herbs."

    Divine Dawn paused, then shook her head, "You misunderstand. This Yin Devil is my husband''s, not my servant."

    "Oh?" The Divine Imperial Son was genuinely surprised. He nced at the War Princess, pursed his lips for a moment, then said to Yun Xiao, "This servant has remarkable talent, could indeed ease your wife¡¯s burdens on her celestial journey. If you truly love her, perhaps you could bear to part with her..."

    "Divine Imperial Son!" Yun Xiao suddenly called out solemnly.

    "Hm?" The Divine Imperial Son frowned, not pleased with the interruption.

    Yun Xiao pointed ahead, his voice grave, "Look! The Ster Spring of Life! There, Lu Fan, that wicked being, is casting a spell that threatens all beings..."

    After saying this, he turned to the Divine Imperial Son, his tone resonating with deep significance.

    "The fate of all beings under heaven now rests in your hands!"

 Chapter 732: Spring of Life, Devouring All Life

    Chapter 732: Spring of Life, Devouring All Life

    ¡°Oh¡­¡± The Divine Imperial Son nced at Yun Xiao upon hearing his words, andmended, ¡°A heart harboring concern for the masses, truly a sincere and noble youth. No wonder the princess has given you her heart.¡±

    But his words were merely for the sake of saying.

    After speaking, his abyss-like eyes ignited with a cold fire, sweeping ahead.

    Deep within the mists ahead, a tumultuous oceanic roar resounded, mingled with the sh of dark golden mystical lights. Faintly, one could hear the wails of souls.

    ¡°A fiend, thinking he can poison themon folk just because he believes the Emperor is far away and the heaven too high, undeterred by the consequences. Little does he know, retribution is unerring, the of heaven is vast and fails to miss even the smallest misdeed.¡±

    With those words, the Divine Imperial Son scoffed coldly, flung his sleeves, and transformed into a streak of white light that pierced through the clouds, darting forward.

    ¡°Shall we follow?¡± Divine Dawn instinctively turned to ask Yun Xiao, hermanding nature still subdued by him.

    ¡°Admire from a distance, and be ready to flee at any moment,¡± Yun Xiao advised.

    ¡°Be ready to flee¡­¡± Divine Dawn found these words somewhat puzzling.In her view, regardless of today''s oue between the Divine Imperial Son and Lu Fan, they must ensure Lu Fan¡¯s demise.

    Yet, she said no more, instead she followed Yun Xiao, advancing further, blending as much as possible into the mists, allowing the Divine Imperial Son to take the lead.

    Soon, the entirety of the Ster Spring of Life was in sight!

    Upon the dim celestial barrier above, an inverted ocean hung, where the Ster Spring of Life bubbled, its flowing waters sparkling with starlight, utterly magnificent.

    This was the Ster Spring of Life!

    Around it, countless rivers and streams spread out like veins, connecting various mortal stars, dispersing the unique waters of the Ster Spring of Life across all of mankind, nourishing all living beings in their growth.

    This inverted ocean was indeed the root of allmon beings and the source of endless life. It flourished endlessly, never drying up. This ce was sacred, managed by the imperial family, yet they never came here.

    And now, Lu Fan was here!

    Above the Ster Spring of Life, a group of beautiful celestial women in luxurious silken robes gathered, their faces filled with adoration and madness, chirping andughing, their eyes held only the sight of that grand man!

    In their midst, a middle-aged man with disheveled hair and a golden robe sat suspended in the air, eyes closed, immobile, as if asleep.

    Yet, above his head, a colossal dark golden lotus spirit, spanning hundreds of meters, rooted itself atop the Ster Spring of Life. Countless tendrils of dark golden power seeped into the springs, darkening the once pure waters.

    A breathtaking spiritual force spread through the <em>veins</em> of the Ster Spring of Life, reaching out to every mortal star.

    Central to thiswork was a white grub as thick as an arm, nestled at the heart of the dark golden lotus spirit, its body contorted into a circle.

    At this moment, the All Life Empress Gu seemed to merge with the Chaos Emperor Lotus Spirit, bing part of Lu Fan.

    Spirits merged with all living beings, and through the All Life Empress Gu, Lu Fan called upon the spirits of mortals across countless mortal stars, using the Ster Spring of Life as a conduit.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Amplified by the Ster Spring of Life and the perverse capabilities of the Chaos Soul, a spiritual monstrosity was taking form, more terrifying than any corpse demon, for it devoured souls, transcending the limits of distance.

    And with the All Life Empress Gu and incense offerings, all beings willingly offered everything they had.

    This was the level of the Chaos Soul''s strategy!

    The White Emperor, who had yed with the incense offerings all his life, had never anticipated that his adversary would develop a method a hundred, a thousand times more destructive, pushing evil to limits even he could not fathom.

    "The Emperor Lotus Soul Force, linked through the All Life Empress Gu, has entered the first mortal star. The pilgrimage of souls has begun!" Empress Zhao dered, hands sped at her chest, her eyes shining on her dignified face, filled with a fanatical devotion.

    "Wonderful!"

    The exalted celestial women, like Lady Fortune and the Sun Sword Goddess, looked dazed, delirious with joy.

    "A life of confusion is worse than death; better to merge with the Emperor Lotus, to be part of our lord''s epassing soul."

    "This is their fortune!"

    "Though they die, the merit of their humble souls will endure forever, a glory unrivaled in this world."

    "When our lord transforms into the heavenly star of all beings, bing the blessing of themon people¡­ who then, transcendent or otherwise, could rival him?"

    The women spoke passionately, tears of emotion spilling from their eyes. To them, this was a magnificent blessing, and they would not hesitate to sacrifice themselves.

    In their eyes gleamed a conquered, moist shine, their gazes stretched and clingy.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As the Ster Spring of Life vibrated, the channel for the souls'' allegiance opened, and they embraced each other, weeping with overwhelming joy.

    "It has begun!"

    "A grand beginning!"

    "My lord has waited far too long, and finally, the day hase for a true defiance of the heavens to be reborn¡­"

    Amid their teary eyes, the disheveled middle-aged man was calmer than ever, his lips curling slightly.

    To him, all this was as it should be.

    "Am I Lu Fan, or the Chaos Emperor Lotus?"

    It seemed no longer important. He heard the souls of all beings from the mortal stars boiling over. At this moment, in their eyes, Lu Fan was like the fierce sun hanging overhead.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Countless mortals, infected with the All Life Devouring Gu, rushed towards this fierce sun like moths to a me, tears streaming down their faces.

    They knew deathy on the path ahead, yet they were overwhelmed with emotion, as if they had found the meaning of life.

    One by one, channels to mortal stars were established!

    The disheveled middle-aged man, with a broad chest,ughed even more brilliantly.

    It had begun!

    "Come, make your pilgrimage, you specks of soul dust."

    "Even if you are tiny, in sufficient numbers, you can build a celestial pce of souls."

    His thoughts, at this moment, reached the zenith! The agony of rebirth, years of lying dormant, had finally paid off!

    "Hahaha¡­"

    As the disheveled man in the golden robe smelled the scent of those soul dust particles, he couldn''t help butugh aloud. He knew better than anyone the bitterness of true rebirth and reincarnation.

    "Come! Come!"

    His face twisted as he roared thismand over the surging Ster Spring of Life. Nothing could stop what was toe!

    However, in that instant, a young man in white appeared not far beside him, his sharp, righteous eyes quickly taking in everything about the Ster Spring of Life!

    The Divine Imperial Son flew into a rage!

    "You, a reincarnated evildoer with no respect for the dao, deserve to die a thousand deaths!"

    With swift and thunderous action, after his deration, a white light shot out from the halo behind his head, like a sharp sword, instantly piercing through the center of the immense Chaos Emperor Lotus¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 733: Lu Fan Did It!

    Chapter 733: Lu Fan Did It!

    With a sharp, unmistakable snap, the piercing white light, its origins a mystery, struck with lethal precision. It burst through the Chaos Emperor Lotus and, in an explosive instant, obliterated the All Life Empress Gu and turned it to ash!

    A guttural cry tore through the air.

    Beneath the Chaos Emperor Lotus, Lu Fan''s face contorted in agony. Clutching his head, he snapped open his bloodshot eyes to re at the sudden apparition of the Divine Imperial Son.

    <em>RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE! </em>The Chaos Emperor Lotus trembled, and the freshly formed spiritual channels in the Ster Spring of Life spiraled into chaos. With the death of the All Life Empress Gu, these connections were severed abruptly.

    In the mortal realm, the pilgrim souls saw their visions of the zing sun vanish. They grasped at thin air, their heads throbbing in pain as their spirits were violently yanked back into their bodies, leaving them dazed and confused.

    From a distance, Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn witnessed the scene.

    "This Divine Imperial Son isn''t half bad, finding the critical point to break the system!" Yun Xiao remarked.

    The incense offerings belonged to the imperial family, and Lu Fan had merely co-opted this system to devour the souls of all beings. The All Life Empress Gu was crucial as the catalyst.

    The creature was inherently fragile; its destruction meant that without a new All Life Empress Gu, Lu Fan''s diabolical scheme to harvest souls would be thwarted."How many All Life Empress Gus are there?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Just one, nurtured by the Crown Prince himself within his lungs near his heart¡ªdead now, and that¡¯s the end of it..." Divine Dawn responded, realization dawning on her about the demise of this cmitous entity that had tormented countless beings.

    Without the Empress Gu, the All Life Devouring Gus in the mortal realm would fall into disarray and eventually perish.

    Lu Fan had received a figurative blow to the head from the Divine Imperial Son!

    Upon the Ster Spring of Life, the man in a tattered golden robe suddenly stood, his eyes bloodshot and fixated on the Divine Imperial Son.

    "He killed the Empress Gu...!"

    Empress Zhao and the other celestial maidens were startled out of their wits, their mouths agape and faces twisted as they screamed in horror.

    Their illusions shattered in an instant, just like fleeting dreams, all punctured by the Divine Imperial Son.

    "Where did this beaste from?!"

    "You''re doomed! Absolutely doomed!"

    The eyes of hundreds of celestial maidens were consumed by hatred.

    Meanwhile, the disheveled middle-aged man leapt into the air, confronting the Divine Imperial Son face to face!

    Logically, even if an ancestor were summoned, they couldn''t possibly find this ce so quickly. He should have had time!

    Lu Fan could never have anticipated that Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit would strip him of his control over the Chaos Emperor Lotus Soul Mark...

    Being early might not beat being timely, and as fate would have it, he arrived just when the All Life Empress Gu was most vulnerable.

    "You..." Lu Fan''s face turned pitch ck, his eyes one ck and one gold, fists clenched as he snarled, "You''ve caused a great disaster, and it''s toote for you to even wish for death."

    "Heh." The Divine Imperial Son scoffed coldly, "A mere trash reincarnator dares to pose before the imperial lineage of my ancestors? Get on your way!"

    With that, he swiftly hurled a white jade slip.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The jade slip soared, transforming instantly into a massive white jade gate. The gate roared as it appeared directly above Lu Fan.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The movement of such a jade gate resembled the unyielding weight of endless mountains and earth.

    "My lord!"

    Empress Zhao and the other celestial maidens rushed forward, but before they could get close to the jade gate, they were blown away by the st, unable to approach.

    "Any worthless thing now thinks they can y the supreme emperor!" the Divine Imperial Son said contemptuously, and pressing his hand down, the jade gate erupted with a thunderous roar like a thousand mountains copsing, crushing down on Lu Fan!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Lu Fan''s brow furrowed as he raised his hands to resist the jade gate, his expression suddenly changing.

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>His arms, flesh, and bones burst under the pressure of the jade gate, blood gushing out as his arms exploded into dust under the immense force!

    "YOU!" Lu Fan managed to utter just that word before his entire body was pulverized by the jade gate.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The mighty Chaos Sovereign was obliterated in an instant, his blood and dust spraying onto the faces of Empress Zhao and the others, making them look as though they were adorned with rouge and powder.

    "KYAAAAAH!"

    The celestial maidens screamed bloodily, their voices heart-wrenching, creating a scene of utter chaos.

    The women had seen him as a man rivaling the cosmos itself, but now, in just an encounter, he was crushed to dust by his adversary.

    At that moment, their hearts felt as if they were being shredded apart.

    "Heh," the Divine Imperial Son sneered, shrugging nonchntly. "A reborn hyena and a pack of ignorant bitches, you wouldn¡¯t recognize the Fourth Dao Tribtion if it bit you."

    With that, he reached out to retrieve the jade slip. But in that instant, his body broke out in sweat, and a crushing sense of suffocation overwhelmed him.

    The Divine Imperial Son looked up sharply! Above him loomed the gigantic gold-and-ck Chaos Emperor Lotus, pressing down upon his head just as the jade gate had done.

    The Chaos Emperor Lotus swallowed the Divine Imperial Son whole.

    "What?!" he eximed, feeling only a bit queasy at first, but then his expression drastically changed, mirroring the earlier despair of Lu Fan.

    "Ah!" The Divine Imperial Son¡¯s face contorted. Though visibly unharmed, his eyes wildly misced, his body trembling. The spinning Chaos Emperor Lotus sent streams of gold-and-ck light, twisting like dragons and snakes, burrowing into his flesh.

    "Twenty years I honed this body, and you''ve ruined it... you''re not getting away either..."

    The voice of the Chaos Emperor Lotus was thick with fury.

    Inside the Chaos Emperor Lotus, the Divine Imperial Son looked as though he was drowning, his face deathly pale, his eyes brimming with terror.

    "Get out!"

    In a desperate moment, the aura behind the Divine Imperial Son burst into brilliant light again, and he released the jade slip, which reformed into the colossal gate covering him.

    He wielded the jade gate with all his might, smashing his way out of the Chaos Emperor Lotus.

    "Reincarnated mongrel, your doom is sealed!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The jade slip shot into the mist with incredible speed, like a sword vessel slicing through the air in a desperate escape, while the Chaos Emperor Lotus did not give chase.

    "My lord..." Empress Zhao and the others, faces stricken with grief, gathered around the Chaos Emperor Lotus.

    They stared at the tangible yet intangible Chaos Emperor Lotus, nearly weeping without tears.

    "My lord, what has happened to you!"

    "My lord..."

    "Silence!" The Chaos Emperor Lotus growled low, clearly infuriated, its ns disrupted as if it had fallen from the heavenly pce to hell itself.

    "Let''s go!" He did not pursue the Divine Imperial Son but instead seized the moment to lead the group of women swiftly away from the Ster Spring of Life.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>BOOM! </em>The jade gate finally came to a halt.

    "Ah..." The Divine Imperial Son, his face pale as paper, his eyes darting around in panic, gasped for air, suspended motionlessly in the vast void of the sky.

    "Someone,e!" the Divine Imperial Son called out, his voice trembling and weak.

    "Divine Imperial Son!"

    Shortly after, three figures appeared beside him, one of them a white silhouette¡ªYun Xiao¡ªhastily supporting the Divine Imperial Son.

    "Divine Imperial Son, how are you?" Divine Dawn asked with concern.

    "My spirit..." the Divine Imperial Son began but then seemed frozen, motionless. After a few moments, he gasped violently, his voice shaky, "Severely injured... befuddled..."

    Having said that, he once again fell into a stupor. Bit by bit, he managed toplete his thoughts.

    "My spirit is severely injured, continuously bewitched, quickly, take me back, need celestial pills for healing..."

    Uttering that sentence took much of his strength.

    "Truly remarkable strength, Divine Imperial Son, to instantly kill the All Life Empress Gu and crush that malevolent fiend''s body," Yun Xiao praised.

    "Enough talk! He still has his spirit, and after I recover, I''ll make his life a living hell..." the Divine Imperial Son growled fiercely. No sooner had he spoken than his eyes twitched uncontrobly, and he again slipped into an unconscious state.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Such divine might," Yun Xiaomented.

    "Let''s go!" The Divine Imperial Son snapped back to awareness, impatiently urging them on.

    "Alright!" As Yun Xiao reached out to support him, his hand shed with the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    With a swift thrust, the sword cleaved swiftly and sharply, chopping off the Divine Imperial Son''s head with a crisp snap.

    "What?" The Divine Imperial Son''s head, still held in his hand, looked bewilderedly at Yun Xiao and asked, "What are you doing, boy?"

    With two more swift strikes, Yun Xiao sliced the still-talking head into four neat pieces.

    "Beast! Wretch! How dare a lowly dog like y¡ª" The spirit of the Divine Imperial Son emerged, riddled with holes and severely damaged by the Chaos Emperor Lotus, which was the only reason Yun Xiao had his chance.

    "Goodbye." Yun Xiao smiled slightly, squeezing the spirit''s head with his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, and in his bewilderment and confusion, he dispatched the Divine Imperial Son to his fate.

    <em>POOF! </em>The spirit of the Divine Imperial Son dissolved into the cosmos, leaving behind only empty space.

    "No Sword Soul, no Life Sigil."

    After checking, Yun Xiao found nothing but an unopened Bag of Holding; there were no other gains. He could only toss the body to the War Princess to have her refine the blood.

    "Hey!" Divine Dawn was about to heal the Divine Imperial Son as instructed when Yun Xiao abruptly beheaded him, startling her.

    "What''s up?" Yun Xiao turned back with a gentle smile and asked.

    "What do you think?" Divine Dawn pouted.

    "You want to know why I killed the Divine Imperial Son?" Yun Xiao''s eyes showed a chilly resolve. "Simple! A grudge over a wife is a grudge that cannot coexist under the same sky. If I didn''t avenge it, I''d be less than a man."

    "When did he take your wife?" Divine Dawn asked incredulously.

    "He hasn''t yet, but even thinking about it is too much," Yun Xiao replied.

    "..." Divine Dawn was speechless¡­ She watched in shock as Yun Xiao <em>digested</em> the Divine Imperial Son.

    "There''s quite a bit in the Bag of Holding. Once the storm passes, we''ll split it," Yun Xiao told Divine Dawn after he finished.

    "I don''t want it," Divine Dawn replied.

    "Still thinking about your grand future?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Divine Dawn gave him a disgruntled look. "Don''t make me out to be so greedy. Who cares about some grand future? I''m just worried about what happens if someone elsees after him."

    "You''re good at acting, aren''t you? What¡¯s there to fear?" Yun Xiao said with a softugh. "Besides, you didn''t kill anyone, and neither did I. If we''re upright, we needn''t fear a crooked shadow."

    "Then who killed the Divine Imperial Son?" Divine Dawn asked, voice t.

    "Lu Fan did!"

 Chapter 734: A Shallow Pond Crowded With Turtles

    Chapter 734: A Shallow Pond Crowded With Turtles

    Lu Fan could never have imagined, not even in his dreams, that with his physical form destroyed, his troubles would only multiply.

    From that moment, he shouldered the me for cmities like the incense offerings, the ughtering of the imperial family, and the murder of the Divine Imperial Son. Divine Dawn, both in identity and the image of justice, truly had the upper hand.

    Yet, the encounter with the Divine Imperial Son served as a grim reminder to Yun Xiao.

    This time, though the Divine Imperial Son hadn¡¯t hidden his intentions, at least he had shame. But he imagined encountering someone shameless, who would think nothing of killing a man or taking a woman.

    In ces wherews and morals held no sway, human nature often faltered. Once someone grasped transcendent power, few could restrain themselves from dominating others.

    "Lu Fan¡¯s essence is the Chaos Soul, now the Chaos Emperor Lotus. His physical body may be destroyed, but he remains a great threat¡­"

    Thankfully, the danger of the All Life Empress Gu was resolved!

    Yun Xiao no longer needed to worry incessantly for themon folk; his mind considerably eased.

    "As long as he lives, peace and joy are but distant dreams."Yet, the murderous intent in Yun Xiao''s heart still surged wildly.

    "Devil Eye, now that Lu Fan is wounded and in disarray, along with arge group, can you locate them?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "I¡¯ll try."

    An elderly one-eyed man approached, his form shifting and transforming into a massive dark red eyeball that hovered in the void of the sky.

    This eyeball, bleeding red light, swept across the heavens with solemn grace.

    Soon after, its pupil contracted swiftly, and the one-eyed man hurriedly reported to Yun Xiao, "Lu Fan and his party have left the Ster Spring of Life and returned to the Great Dao Celestial Realm."

    "Keep a close watch on them," Yun Xiaomanded.

    "With his body destroyed, what could he possibly do back in the Great Dao Celestial Realm?" Divine Dawn asked, frowning.

    "His n to devour all the souls of the mortal realm has failed, and staying here serves no purpose. His first choice must be to return to the Celestial Court¡­" Yun Xiao paused, "Of course, it''s likely that within the Celestial Court, there remains something that could help Lu Fan catch his breath."

    "Do you think we can defeat him now?" the War Princess asked.

    Yun Xiao, with a profound look, responded, "Previously, we had no choice but to engage him head-on for the sake of all the beings in the mortal realm. From what we observed in the battle between Lu Fan and the Divine Imperial Son just now, had we rashly engaged, both of you would surely have perished. My spirit is a little stronger than yours, so I might have escaped."

    "Why has Lu Fan grown so powerful?" Divine Dawn asked, baffled.

    Yun Xiao could not reveal to her that the Chaos Soul had now bared its fangs, and the one controlling <em>Lu Fan</em> was likely no longer the former Chaos Sovereign.

    The Chaos Soul was engaged in a battle of life and death; it would be more surprising if it weren''t formidable.

    He simply shook his head and said, "Let''s just say, this is his true level of power."

    "Can we actually fight him now?" the War Princess asked in frustration.

    "Act ording to the situation. If we meet on a narrow path, we must fight to the death. If there''s a chance to use another''s hand against him, let''s not foolishly force a confrontation," Yun Xiao advised.

    A regr opponent would be manageable. But this was the Chaos Soul, transcending even the mightiest Immortals of this world!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, it was also like a creature trapped in a tortoise shell, barely clinging onto life. How else could the Divine Imperial Son have backed him into such a corner?

    Regardless, Yun Xiao and his group still turned back toward the Great Dao Celestial Realm, pursuing their foe.

    This time, a life or death verdict was to be decided...

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Beneath the Heavenly Pce, the mes of the Celestial Sourcecore raged fiercely.

    "We''ve arrived."

    The several-hundred-meter-wide Chaos Emperor Lotus gently spun amidst the zing furnace-like mes.

    Its spirit, once violent and wild, had calmed but now bore a chill, somber, and sinister air.

    Even the celestial women who worshiped him felt a tremor of fear.

    "Zhao Shi..."

    On the petals of the Chaos Emperor Lotus, a face appeared, ancient and ethereal. Its golden-ck eyes looked down, scrutinizing the group of celestial maidens.

    At this moment, they seemed of little value. Without a physical body, it could no longer feel the pleasures of the world, left only with emptiness and cruelty.

    The nourishment and rebellion of these women had indeed greatly aided the Chaos Emperor Lotus. But they were the legacy of Lu Fan, not of the Chaos Emperor Lotus...

    The Chaos Emperor Lotus found them troublesome yet did not dispose of them, for it was, like in its past life, a progenitor of spirits, reveling in the worship of many souls.

    Even now, it seemed far too diminished in scale.

    "Rebirth is but a rise from the east, a return to infancy, where a few hurdles are too minor to stir the waters," the Chaos Emperor Lotus dered, its voice resonant yet hollow, smoothing the inner creases of worry in the hearts of Empress Zhao and the other celestial maidens, calming them thoroughly.

    Now, with only the spirit left to engage in love, they had no choice but to remainposed.

    "My lord, pleasemand me," Empress Zhao, the motherly figure among them, bowed deeply, still infatuated and docile.

    "You too can control the void passage. Open the lower half; I need to enter the Celestial Sourcecore," the Chaos Emperor Lotus instructed.

    "My lord, are you nning to refine your spirit with the heartfire of the Celestial Sourcecore?" Empress Zhao asked, her voice trembling.

    "Yes," the Chaos Emperor Lotus responded evenly.

    It regarded the group of celestial beauties and mused softly, "The destruction of the physical body is not without its benefits. The mortal coil is merely a shackle for the spirit, more hindrance than help... It''s time to fully recast the Chaos Emperor Lotus."

    "We wish our lord great sess in his divine endeavor, and may your virtue beplete."

    The group of beauties remained utterly respectful, their hearts full of reverence, believing wholeheartedly that after this ordeal, the Chaos Emperor Lotus, having shed flesh and severed mundane ties, would return to its peak¡ªa state even mightier than when it had consumed the souls of the living through a mortal body.

    This was the culmination of over 20 years of dormant influence and indoctrination by the <em>System</em>, perfectly aligning with Lu Fan''s spirit toy the foundation for rebirth. It wasn''t a spur of the moment decision, but a painstakingly arranged n for rebirth!

    "None can prevent our lord from defying the heavens and ruling for eternity...!"

    The group of celestial maidens, with eyes full of fervent devotion, prostrated themselves fully, the fire of adoration burning in their gaze.

    "This celestial step is like a shallow pond, crowded with turtles, indeed a strenuous first step."

    The petals of the Chaos Emperor Lotus unfurled, the soulfire upon them burning ever more intensely.

    "However, the advantage is clear¡ªthere exists no cultivator mighty enough to threaten me, ensuring safety..."

    With the body gone, what more could one do?

    The Chaos Emperor Lotus, aglow with zing ck and gold soulfire, made the mes of the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm tremble and wail.

    Then, through the void passage, it descended into the deepest reaches of the Celestial Sourcecore.

    "Chaos descends, unrivaled in all the universe!"

    Empress Zhao and the others, hearts wild with fervor, faces bright with joy, cried out in worship.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    With a resounding crash, the Azure Rain Sword Vessel touched down upon the Heavenly Pce.

    Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, the War Princess, and Devil Eye emerged from within.

    Cao Shuo, Gu Suwan, and Yue Yin¡ªthree mature beauties¡ªapproached to meet them.

    "Is everything arranged?" Yun Xiao asked Cao Shuo.

    "Within the boundaries of the Heavenly Pce, there''s no one else left. The celestial army has been temporarily dispersed," Cao Shuo replied.

    "What reason did you give?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "I told them that you and the Seventh Princess were to engage in a life-and-death battle with Lu Fan, to prevent idental injuries. I ordered all the Immortals in the Great Dao Celestial Realm to stay indoors and hide," Cao Shuo exined.

    She was clever enough to know that Yun Xiao wanted to avoid any unnecessary contact between the people summoned by the ancestral summoning edict and the general popce, to keep the narrative under control and shift the battle towards the Chaos Soul.

    And to keep a low profile himself.

    Lu Fan and the White Emperor were natural enemies. So strictly speaking, Yun Xiao¡¯s actions weren¡¯t so much exploiting others as they were hiding himself before a third-party threat emerged.

    This was truly watching the tigers fight from the mountain!

    Since the conflict in the Heavenly Pce began, everyone wanted to watch from the sidelines, and so far, Yun Xiao had gained the most from it. But this was only temporary.

    The effects of the ancestral summoning edict and what it might provoke were still uncertain.

    And the risks that Lu Fan, now the Chaos Emperor Lotus, might take in such a desperate situation were also unknown!

    "Where is Lu Fan?" Cao Shuo, concerned for the people, asked anxiously.

    "The All Life Empress Gu is dead, and Lu Fan''s n has failed. He has now fled into the center of the Celestial Sourcecore, brewing who knows what disaster," Yun Xiao said, his expression grim.

    "And the Divine Imperial Son...?" Cao Shuo asked.

    "Cut down by Lu Fan, unfortunately," Yun Xiao shook his head.

    Divine Dawn and the War Princess, hearing this, were beyond speechless.

    The most shocking part was that Cao Shuo believed itpletely, eximing, "Damn, that Lu Fan is too strong... But he''s truly stirred up trouble now. The force behind the White Emperor and imperial family won''t let this rest, I expect a major figure will soon arrive to send him to his demise."

    No sooner had she spoken than at the spot where the White Emperor had perished, a massive colorful teleportation celestial formation took shape instantaneously, then started to absorb power from the Sacred Emperor Barrier to activate, its colorful radiance illuminating thend.

    "Are they here already?" Yun Xiao''s heart skipped a beat.

    The power of this ancestral summoning edict was fiercer than he had imagined.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 735: Descent of the Heavenly Monarch!

    Chapter 735: Descent of the Heavenly Monarch!

    Moreover, this time, the colorful celestial formation was clearly on a grander scale than when the Divine Imperial Son had arrived¡ªby at least tenfold!

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the celestial formation coalesced, several figures faintly appeared, converging at the heart of the formation.

    "The strength of those arriving surpasses even the Divine Imperial Son."

    The confrontation escted!

    Yun Xiao''s gaze intensified as he watched those supreme figures, quickly making a decision. "We''re leaving."

    "Leave?" Divine Dawn paused, "And what about me?"

    "You go on your own, as if I never existed," Yun Xiao said.

    "Are you that afraid of another attempting to steal your wife..." Divine Dawn bit her red lip, her expression peculiar.

    "It''s just avoiding unnecessaryplications." Yun Xiao squeezed her jade hand gently, softly adding, "Don''t worry, I can support you more effectively from the shadows. Should any problem arise, I''ll rescue you immediately.""Enough, no need for rescue; I can handle it," Divine Dawn stated, her emotions ambiguous.

    With time pressing, Yun Xiao spoke no more. After leaving her alone, he directed Cao Shuo and the others to leave the Heavenly Pce, while he, along with the War Princess and the Devil Eye, retreated to a distant location, the Devil Eye observing the situation from afar.

    "If you do this, and the neers seize the Chaos Soul, they might just take her away," the War Princess poked Yun Xiao in the ribs, her expression odd.

    "I hope she leaves, to pursue her future, not to throw her life away," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "And what if she ascends beyond your reach?" teased the War Princess.

    "I have a Flying Sword; no matter how high, I can shoot it down," Yun Xiao casually replied.

    At this, the War Princess'' cheeks reddened, and she muttered, "Shameless..."

    Just then, the colorful teleportation formation before the Taiwei Imperial Pce fully formed, with nine figures shockingly arriving. Even from a distance, Yun Xiao could feel the terrifying brilliance emanating from them.

    "Definitely stronger than the Divine Imperial Son!" Yun Xiao frowned.

    Facing such formidable outsiders, of course he would send them to confront Lu Fan! Taking them on directly would be pure folly.

    "Aren''t you afraid she might be in danger?" the War Princess asked.

    "I trust in her abilities," Yun Xiao replied, ncing at the War Princess. "It''s yourziness and weak mental fortitude that worries me."

    "That''s because you spoil me, whose fault is that?" the War Princess huffed.

    That left Yun Xiao without aeback. However, his bold move to push Divine Dawn forward was not only because of her courage and meticulous capabilities, but Yun Xiao had also taken precautions.

    He left Blue Star and Red Moon near her. How else could he bear to let his beloved venture alone?

    From this distant vantage, the nine figures were barely more than specks, barely visible.

    And their voices were utterly lost to the distance.

    "They''ve arrived; the Seventh Princess has gone to meet them," the Devil Eye whispered from his side.

    "How do you gauge these people?" Yun Xiao asked, his gaze fixed intently in the distance, his heart beating a touch faster.

    "Each one has an aura that suggests both age and power surpassing the Divine Imperial Son. And the woman leading them, she seems terrifying," the Devil Eye''s voice shook slightly.

    "A woman?" Yun Xiao squinted slightly; he dared not use his spiritual senses and relied solely on his eyes.

    Indeed, the figure nearest to Divine Dawn was silhouetted in silver, undoubtedly a woman, her aura dazzlingly brilliant, akin to a supreme celestial deity.

    Even from afar, Yun Xiao felt the oppressive aura emanating from this woman.

    "Could this be the supreme aunt the Divine Imperial Son spoke of? From that ce known as the Ancestral Land, surely only the mightiest reside there..."

    Was it the ancestral summoning edict that brought this celestial sovereign here, or the death of the Divine Imperial Son?

    For now, the interaction between this silver-silhouetteddy and Divine Dawn seemed harmonious; Divine Dawn appeared to be recounting prior events, then using Lu Fan of ying the Divine Imperial Son!

    She was like a little rabbit speaking amongst nine golden lions, causing Yun Xiao''s heart to pound. Even if he stood in Divine Dawn''s ce, he doubted he''d feel as tense.

    "You really do love her," the War Princess said, her tone tinged with jealousy.

    "Quiet!" Yun Xiao snapped.

    "Rx. From their expressions, their growing anger isn''t aimed at the Seventh Princess," the Devil Eye added, easing Yun Xiao''s anxiety.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Then the Devil Eye continued, "The Seventh Princess is indeed a clever and charming woman of the human race, speaking truthfully and movingly, making it hard for them not to believe her."

    "You mean to say our Devil race''s darling princess is just dumb and brash?" the War Princess huffed.

    "Uh..." the Devil Eye quickly shed an awkward smile, "I meant no such thing. Princess, your charming eyes and delightful naivety are surely most deeply appreciated by Immortal Yun."

    "Keep watch," Yun Xiao cut in, urging the Devil Eye to continue his task and ignore the War Princess''s idle provocations.

    "They''ve moved!" the Devil Eye suddenly announced.

    "Hmm..." Yun Xiao focused his gaze, watching as the nine figures entered the Taiwei Imperial Pce, then seemed to open a pathway leading straight into the depths beneath the Heavenly Pce!

    Their oppressive presence faded with their departure.

    "Have they gone?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "They headed towards the heart of the Celestial Sourcecore," the Devil Eye replied.

    "Good!"

    Without further ado, Yun Xiao dashed off alone towards Divine Dawn.

    The War Princess''s eyes sparkled, but she remained where she was.

    "Aren''t you going?" the Devil Eye asked with a smile.

    The War Princess lounged back, saying, "That little white tiger and he are both too headstrong, always needing to lead. They won''t stick together for long."

    "Great wisdom often ys the fool," the Devil Eye summarized.

    "I know he doesn''t love me, but that''s alright. Without the sparks of passion, the steadypany will do." The War Princess'' eyes softened.

    "Love is not built in a day. There''s love at first sight and love that grows over time. With enough sincerity, any match can be made," the Devil Eye reflected.

    "Sincerity can''t buy love; it still relies on looks and charm." The War Princess chuckled.

    "Then you truly understand him." The Devil Eye was left speechless,ughing. After a pause, he added reflectively, "It''s good to be ordinary. The masses are allmon folks; whenmoners lead, they don''t stand unreachable in the clouds. They understand the hardships of the world..."

    "I like him just as he is, full of desires and courage, quick to anger and to act, a vexingly ordinary troublemaker..." the War Princess smiled faintly, "and by a stroke of luck, I am just as free-spirited!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Before the grand Taiwei Imperial Pce, Yun Xiao swept in like a gust of wind, sping Divine Dawn''s slender waist, and together they breezed through 30 miles. His approach had been rapid indeed.

    "What are you doing? You nearly knocked the breath out of me," Divine Dawn protested, pushing against his chest in a vain attempt to free herself.

    "I was a bit anxious," Yun Xiao confessed softly into her ear, easing his own nerves.

    "What''s there to be nervous about? It''s the same old tricks," she huffed. Yet, her initially reproachful expression softened into a smile, filled with the warmth of being cared for.

    "This time it''s different. There are nine of them, each with their own mind. If even one suspects deception in the details, the consequences could be dire. And the one leading them... she''s rather formidable," Yun Xiao said, his arms still firmly around her.

    "It''s daunting, like a towering mountain stands before me, so high I can''t even reach her heels. I heard the others call her Heavenly Monarch Mu, likely that Divine Imperial Son''s aunt," Divine Dawn marveled, momentarily adopting Lian Xi''s yful tongue, adding a dash of charm.

    "Did she believe you?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "There was no reason not to, my story was logical and clear," she replied.

    "And after hearing it, she decided to go down and y Lu Fan?" he pressed.

    "Yes. She''s decisive and ruthless... and oddly charismatic," Divine Dawn observed.

    "Did she ask about your talents?" Yun Xiao suddenly gazed into her eyes, his question earnest.

    "She didn¡¯t, but..." Divine Dawn hesitated, her eyes conflicted.

    "But what?"

    Under Yun Xiao''s direct questioning, she bit her lip and revealed, "In the end, she told me to stay put. After they''ve dealt with Lu Fan, she wants to take me back to the Ancestral Land and make me her disciple..."

    Before, the Divine Imperial Son had merely used his aunt as a lofty promise, but this time, Heavenly Monarch Mu directly shaped Divine Dawn''s future with no idle words.

    This revtion left Divine Dawn feeling lost, unprepared for the pathid before her.

    "Brother, I..."

    Just as she was about to confess her indifference toward such grand prospects, Yun Xiao suddenly covered her mouth with his hand, smiling, "It''s been a while since you called me that. It sounds nice."

    "Heh, I feel a bit twisted." Divine Dawn coldlyughed.

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao widened his eyes in mock horror, "Can you keep that Empress act to yourself? We were having a moment, no need for interference."

    Divine Dawn''s gaze flickered, and soon, the familiar, heartfelt Chen Xi returned.

    "Don''t speak, listen," Yun Xiao held her face, his words deliberate and serious, "You don''t realize how happy I was to hear the word <em>future</em> from you. That¡¯s the real you, a whole person, not just an avatar of someone''s will. Moreover, when you have the chance to ascend, to fulfill yourself, I won''t be your shackles. My ideal Lil Xi doesn¡¯t need to lean on anyone; your own worth is enough. Pursue it, and you¡¯ll find the greatest meaning in life. The world is vast, and if all goes well, so is the path of cultivation. I''m confident enough to reach your level, don''t worry about looking down on me. Worry instead that you might getzy and find yourself far behind."

    Her eyes suddenly welled with tears, and she whimpered, "Are you trying to dump me because I mentioned a spiritual romance, to swap me for someone who fulfills your desires? You''ve said so much in one go..."

    Yun Xiao went pale, gritting his teeth, "Would you believe me if I said I could strip you of your powers right now, leaving you nowhere to go?!"

 Chapter 736: All Meetings Must Have a Parting

    Chapter 736: All Meetings Must Have a Parting

    <em>BOOM! </em>In a moment filled with tender emotion, the ground of the Heavenly Pce shook violently beneath Yun Xiao and Divine Dawn''s feet.

    Divine Dawn''s beautiful face tightened as she eximed, "The battle has begun!"

    "Yes!"

    And so, the so-called supreme Heavenly Monarch of the ancestral imperial family led eight Fourth Dao Tribtion Immortal powerhouses in a fierce battle against the reborn and manifested Chaos Soul.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    This sh took ce at the heart of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, and its tremors reached even the Heavenly Pce, attesting to the formidable power of thebatants.

    "That Chaos Soul, once it shed the shell of Lu Fan, surged in power too fiercely."

    Practically speaking, the summoning edict issued by the White Emperor just before his death had greatly aided Yun Xiao.

    <em>RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE! </em>The Heavenly Pce continued to tremble relentlessly.

    Yun Xiao looked around and saw, beyond this divinend, a tidal wave of fieryva erupting from the underworld, stirring the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm.For a moment, the Heavenly Pce itself seemed like a ship amidst a sea of mes, rocking violently back and forth, not to mention the other celestial cities and towns.

    From a sufficient distance, one could see the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm in turmoil!

    The ferocity of the battle was evident!

    It appeared Heavenly Monarch Mu was indeed formidable, shaking the very foundations of the Celestial Sourcecore, which did not surprise Yun Xiao.

    Rather, it was the Chaos Soul, freed from its physical form, that seemed unbound and even more challenging to deal with, causing Yun Xiao a slight dread.

    "One must admit, the awakening of a beast that''s been lying dormant for over 20 years is not to be underestimated."

    Blue Star and Red Moon had warned from the start that the Chaos Soul was no easy foe, and this was no joke. It far surpassed the world level of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    "Oohhhhhh! Oohhh¡­!"

    In addition to the tremors across the Great Dao Celestial Realm, one could hear a mournful, soaring, soul-piercing wave of spirit storms. These soul tempests, along with the flood of mes, swept across the entire realm, making the Immortals truly feel the terror of Lu Fan!

    The deluge of fire and the explosions of souls grew more magnificent, making it feel as if the heavens were splitting and the earth was shattering, rendering all living things into deste silence.

    Yun Xiao had relied on Divine Dawn to extricate himself from this showdown and stood to the side as an observer.

    At this moment, he and Heavenly Monarch Mu shared amon goal: to utterly annihte the Chaos Soul!

    The evil of the Chaos Soul was supreme, surpassing even that of the White Emperor!

    Should the Chaos Soul survive this cmity posed by Heavenly Monarch Mu, who then could contain it in the near future?

    Yun Xiao, Divine Dawn, the War Princess, and others all waited in silence.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Divine Dawn¡¯s heart raced as she gazed in the direction of the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    Beyond the quaking of the earth and sky, there were soul-shrieking hurricanes sweeping the heavens, cries of agony whose owner was unknown.

    As time passed, the cataclysmic noise that shook the world gradually quieted and ceased.

    This signaled that the oue had been decided.

    The whole of creation seemed to have suffered a severe illness, falling into pallor and exhaustion.

    Even the wind felt feeble and listless.

    ¡°Lil Xi,¡± Yun Xiao looked at the fair-skinned girl in a pristine white dress before him and said, ¡°If all goes well, until we meet again.¡±

    ¡°Certainly¡­¡±

    Before she could finish, Yun Xiao had to depart first, as there were stirrings along the void passage within the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    ¡°Brother¡­¡± The girl had not yet shouted out when Yun Xiao gave a slight smile, pinched her cheek, and retreated into the wind, fading away as lightly as a feather.

    Once more, the world fell into silence! It all seemed to be over.

    ¡°Shen Xi.¡± From the ruins of the Taiwei Imperial Pce, a cold voice emerged.

    ¡°Heavenly Monarch Mu¡­!¡± Divine Dawn then turned, streaking like a sh of white light into the Taiwei Imperial Pce, appearing before the dragon throne where a woman stood in a silver robe crowned with a halo.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Upon seeing her, Divine Dawn was greatly astonished; the Heavenly Monarch Mu appeared ghastly pale, her eyes dim, nearly as lifeless as the Divine Imperial Son.

    "Do you still have attachments in this realm?" the silver-robed woman with a halo asked coldly.

    "No," Divine Dawn replied softly, shaking her head.

    "That''s good," the woman said slowly, opening her eyes wide to stare meaningfully at Divine Dawn. "The path to ascension cuts through earthly ties. You, not being whole, have lost nearly half your potential¡ªa true waste of heavenly gifts. Do not further cloud your judgment or harm what remains of your spiritual foundation."

    Divine Dawn felt displeased but restrained herself and nodded, saying, "I understand, Heavenly Monarch Mu."

    "After you return, I will conduct a ceremony for you to formally be my disciple. From then on, you will address me differently," the silver-robed woman dered.

    "Yes," Divine Dawn replied obediently.

    The woman gave her a deep look and added, "Once you join my tutge, your life must be dedicated solely to the pursuit of the dao. All else is trivial and must be cast aside, except for my teachings, which you must regard as divine!"

    "Yes," Divine Dawn responded, her demeanor unchanged.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The silver-robed woman said no more but activated the teleportation formation.

    In an instant, colorful lights enveloped her and the Heavenly Monarch Mu. The light grew intense and slowly engulfed herpletely.

    "Brother." Divine Dawn thought silently, her heart reluctant as she watched in the direction he had gone, feeling empty. Tears slid down her cheeks, sparkling with the light.

    "Say goodbye to your homnd. Once you leave, it''s likely you''ll never return," echoed Heavenly Monarch Mu''s cold, profound words in her ears like a steel gate closing, sealing Divine Dawn on the other side of the world.

    "We''ll meet ag..." She couldn''t even finish speaking before the colorful formation, like a massive beast, swallowed her white-dressed figure into the spatial currents.

    That wisp of white dashed towards the heavens with a hum.

    In an instant, the area near the Taiwei Imperial Pce was deste. The brave and righteous little white tiger had vanished, no longer able to feel her heartbeat.

    "Uh." Yun Xiao watched this scene, feeling suddenly as if a piece of his heart was missing, as if part of his heart had been torn away. It hurt a little, and felt empty. Missing her was like bleeding, constantly hurting, never allowing a smile, especially when remembering her, yet unable to see her.

    Becauseing and going were too rapid, under the control of that supreme Heavenly Monarch, everything felt out of his hands.

    Yun Xiao could hardly fathom the feeling of being forcibly separated. He liked to think he''d be happy for Divine Dawn pursuing the future rather than self-destruction, but when she truly left for the future, his heart still ached.

    "Let it be, don''t dwell on it. Let her fly ahead as the silly bird for now. Once I find a way to cross worlds, I''ll go find her. There''s an upside to that; at least when I arrive, she can still look out for me." Yun Xiao chose to be optimistic.

    "You''re overthinking it. Once she reaches the Ancestral Land and meets some handsome, wealthy men, she''ll instantly forget you, a poor boy," Blue Star scoffed.

    "Don''t give me that kind of script where you pretend to p my face; it''s pointless," Yun Xiao retorted tly.

    Though he said this, Yun Xiao still held on to the hope of meeting Divine Dawn again someday...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 737: Lu Fan is Out of the Ordinary!

    Chapter 737: Lu Fan is Out of the Ordinary!

    "Damn, I don''t even need her cultivation anymore; this third time of dual cultivation has be an obstacle to a happy life."

    It felt like a loss!

    "I wonder how Lil Xi will fare in the Ancestral Land with that Heavenly Monarch¡­" Yun Xiao still cared about her...

    After all, it was an unfamiliar ce, and with Heavenly Monarch Mu, a clearly domineering master, there might be some hardships. But there was nothing he could do!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Divine Dawn was different from the War Princess; she did not have the words <em>give up</em> in her vocabry. She had strong personal ambitions and aspirations. If she were to submit to Yun Xiao, she would lose her sparkle.

    That wouldn''t be her anymore.

    "Best wishes to her, then!" Yun Xiao truly hadn''t anticipated that a day woulde when reality would force him to part ways with someone he loved.

    It was a bit melodramatic, but it genuinely unsettled him.

    "Fortunately, their departure means that the Great Dao Celestial Realm can finally look forward to some good news!" Yun Xiao said, turning back as the War Princess and Devil Eye joined him."The Chaos Soul was eliminated, and the Ancestral Land''s side lost eight in the battle, right?" the War Princess asked, slightly anxious.

    "I didn''t hear their conversation, but it seems so," Yun Xiao replied. He had seen the expression on Divine Dawn''s face; there was no sign of distress, which meant the matter of the Chaos Soul must have been resolved.

    "That Chaos Soul is really something else, to take out eight of them without even a physical body," the War Princess marveled, then mocked, "Still, I bet it never dreamed that, in such a ce, there woulde a being capable of delivering a fatal blow."

    "It is quite surprising..." Yun Xiao didn''t expect that he wouldn''t have to face a life-and-death battle with the Chaos Soul; the disaster of the Great Dao Celestial Realm was resolved just like that!

    The cmity of the incense offerings and the drama between the Lu Family father and son had finallye to aplete end.

    "I need to go down and check it out, maybe I can find something left by the Chaos Soul. I hope that Heavenly Monarch Mu hasn''t taken all the loot..."

    Yun Xiao felt a lightness in his heart as he spoke, ready to head toward the Taiwei Imperial Pce.

    "Wait!" The Devil Eye suddenly changed his expression and stopped Yun Xiao.

    "What?" Yun Xiao turned around, slightly startled.

    "Lu Fan is not dead!" the Devil Eye''s gaze trembled, somewhat breathlessly informing Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao furrowed his brows, asking, "What''s the situation? Is he nearly dead or..."

    The Devil Eye shook his head. "It looks okay, he''s severely injured, but definitely not to the extent of death..."

    A chill ran through Yun Xiao''s heart. "If he was really on the brink of death, Heavenly Monarch Mu would have taken care of him then and there. But she didn''t; instead, she came back and immediately returned to the Ancestral Land?"

    "What does that imply?" the War Princess asked, somewhat confused.

    "It means she simply couldn''t kill Lu Fan and even chose to abandon the battle at the end." Yun Xiao clenched his teeth.

    "And Divine Dawn didn''t react..."

    "She deceived Lil Xi," Yun Xiao''s expression darkenedpletely.

    "Eh? Why? If she really couldn¡¯t handle it, why didn''t she just call for more help?" the War Princess asked, puzzled.

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "Someone at her level considers face and prestige in every decision. Perhaps there''s another reason she doesn''t want to muddle through here anymore. Since she deceived Lil Xi, it effectively ended the summoning edict, closing the case here. No one else wille now."

    "She doesn''t even know we exist, then that means..." the War Princess thought with dread.

    "Right, she''s abandoned everyone here, left them to the Chaos Soul," Yun Xiao finished, feeling a bit nauseous.

    Yun Xiao never liked to judge others by moral standards. Even if Heavenly Monarch Mu came and did nothing at all, not even attempting to save anyone, Yun Xiao wasn''t inclined to reproach her.

    But¡­ To half-heartedly handle the task, then deceive Divine Dawn, im the credit, and ''seal off'' this world, abandoning so many of the human race to fend for themselves in both the Great Dao Celestial Realm and the mortal realm¡ªthat was truly despicable!

    "She deceived Lil Xi, and she''ll surely mark the case here closed when she returns to the Ancestral Land..."

    Without Yun Xiao, what would be of this ce?

    "Our situation here is quite unique, akin to a prison world. As long as the Ancestral Land doesn''t intervene, the Chaos Soul can hardly escape," the Devil Eye added, shedding more light on Heavenly Monarch Mu''s motives.

    She had imed the credit and then sacrificed the souls of this realm.

    "Let it be!" Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "How can you just let it be?" the War Princess asked, visibly upset.

    "Whether she saves them or not is her concern. We shouldn''t dwell on it. Since we can''t use her anymore and no one else will interfere, I''ll just have to face him in this prison and settle our fate," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Indeed, brooding over it is pointless," the War Princess understood, though still frustrated. "If we can resolve this situation and find a way to reach the Ancestral Land, at least we won''t let her deceive Lil Xi."

    "We''ll deal with whates next."

    Having said that, Yun Xiao turned back to the Devil Eye. "Where is the Chaos Soul?"

    "He is currently meeting with Empress Zhao and others, likely discussing settling things with you once and for all," the Devil Eye informed.

    "Oh..."

    So, the Chaos Soul also knew that the summoning edict had officially ended, and that there''d be no more interference!

    It seemed as if the world had been pared down to just two beasts¡ªa gigantic spirit beast and a divinely talented smaller one, both aware of each other''s presence.

    Only one could truly break free from this world, defy fate, and embark on an unparalleled path. Who would it be?

    In terms of raw power, certainly Yun Xiao. But the Chaos Soul had umted over 20 more years of power! Neither could afford to underestimate the other.

    Now, the only advantage might be that both sides were no longer trying to outmaneuver each other with tricks but were heading toward a direct confrontation...

    "From the Divine Imperial Son to Heavenly Monarch Mu, one thing is clear¡ªthe Chaos Soul has been repeatedly injured, continually weakening."

    Indeed, the people from the Ancestral Land had aplished something significant.

    "Now what do we do?" the War Princess fretted, restless and clueless, resembling a teammate more prone to babble than act.

    "Nothing''s better than cultivation," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "What?" the War Princess was stunned.

    "Come, let''s cultivate together." Yun Xiao grasped her hand, pulling the dazed young woman towards the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    "No, no, no, my heart isn''t ready yet..!." the War Princess couldn''t help but cry.

    The Devil Eye couldn''t help butugh as he watched them depart. "It seems that a girl needs less opinion, less wisdom, and moreziness, to follow a man of talent!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Below the Heavenly Pce, amid a fierce storm of mes, a group of hundreds, their eyes brimming with tears, gathered again. Their souls bewitched, they stared down enchantedly.

    In that direction, shards of ck-gold petals fluttered through the air, slowly converging.

    Eventually, these petals formed a human figure, a <em>flower man</em>, the petalsyering and evolving.

    Drops of blood and human remains also gathered in the air, merging with the petal-formed figure, intermingling.

    Sizzling sounds filled the air as a being made of petals, blood, and the remains reassembled amidst the mes. His face, woven from petals, finally morphed into the visage of Lu Fan.

    Now, he was neatly dressed, his hair perfectly straight, resembling the unrivalled Lu Fan from the portraits.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>He opened his eyes¡ªone gold, one ck¡ªlike deep-sea vortices, profound and evesting.

    "Hahaha..." He suddenlyughed, a somewhat childish chuckle, shaking his head as he looked over himself.

    "Damn, you stupid System, daring to trick your daddy, see what you get? That Heavenly Monarch beat the crap out of you!"

    As soon as he finished speaking, his expression twisted again, his voice menacing, "Wandering spirit, don''t y with fire, or you''ll wish for death forever."

    "Who are you trying to scare? I''d jump off a building blindfolded, why should I fear a lotus? Also, you think I don''t need a body? Do you know how important a body is to me? Without a gun, how can I go spelunking in beautiful Immortal caves?"

    After saying this, Lu Fan''s face changed several times, settling into a nonchnt demeanor.

    His fiery gaze turned to the group of beautiful celestial maidens, beckoning with a hook of his finger. "Come,e,e, after a great cmity, big daddy here will take you all on at once!"

    Seeing the familiar Chaos Sovereign, the assembled celestial maidensughed.

    In the midst of joy, Empress Zhao couldn''t help herself and added, "My lord, is it time to eradicate Yun Xiao and unite the heavens?"

 Chapter 738: Sea of Bitter Blessings

    Chapter 738: Sea of Bitter Blessings

    In a world cloaked in mystery, atop an ancient and nameless teleportation formation, the words <em>Six Paths of Reincarnation</em> hung in the air like strange, blood-red suns.

    Beneath these wordsy an endless shadow, ck as a coffin, stretching boundlessly in every direction, its edges unseen.

    The humming sound confirmed it. The Yaksha Ancestor was right.

    When Moon Fairy, Pale Revenant, and the Great Mother drew near the Six Paths of Reincarnation realm, the mighty celestial energies surged like a near-liquid sea, so vast that one felt submerged in an ocean of mystical force.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    With a mere stretch of a hand, the ck, dusky yellow, and blood-red energies condensed into a droplet of <em>frost</em> upon one''s palm.

    "The disparity between worlds is vast," Yun Xiao thought as he observed the frost. "A single droplet could shatter a mortal star."

    Did the lives of mere mortals truly hold meaning? Even as a former lowly mortal himself, such thoughts inevitably crossed his mind, let alone those born supreme.

    All were beings, all had lives, yet the essence of their existence varied greatly.

    "No matter," Yun Xiao mused, "this Six Paths of Reincarnation Realm far surpasses the Great Dao Celestial Realm."Moon Fairy''s silver eyes gazed coldly ahead at the super cosmic realm, 3,000 times more vast than the Great Dao Celestial Realm. His small stature, merely five and a half feet tall, seemed no more significant than a speck of dust inparison, his divine body dwarfed by the vastness around him.

    This awe for the magnitude of the world sparked from Moon Fairy''s eyes, but it was Yun Xiao''s heart that truly felt the overwhelming vastness.

    Moon Fairy was part of his body, as if Yun Xiao had extended himself into this Six Paths of Reincarnation Realm to personally experience its enigmatic and majestic third Dao Source.

    "Such a vast world signifies abundant opportunities, yet also harbors unpredictable dangers," he reflected. "Then again... this is just a body double¡ªif it dies, I''ll simply rece it with another. There''s no need to be afraid."

    With this open-hearted and firm belief, Yun Xiao controlled his body double, drawing ever closer to the dark shadow that seemed to beckon him as an entrance. Not only that, as he neared, he sensed the presence of other beings, creatures near the entrance.

    It promised to be a lively gathering.

    Far off in the distance, six boundless vortices appeared like deep abysses, drawing numerous creatures of varying sizes into their swirling depths.

    Moon Fairy, apanied by the two corpse demons, was but a trifling trio upon this endless teleportation formation.

    "These beings seem quite formidable," the Great Mother cautioned, her voice tinged with cool alertness.

    "This world is too dark and eerie, it feels perilous," Pale Revenant added.

    Moon Fairy nodded in agreement. He continued moving forward, each step drawing him closer to the six abyssal vortices. As they narrowed the distance, the presence of enigmatic creatures grew more palpable, with shadows asionally sweeping past, chilling to the bone.

    Such encounters gave Yun Xiao the sensation of walking through a dark forest, where the fog was so dense it seemed the whole world was a clouded swamp, never knowing if the next moment would bring forth a behemoth from the mist.

    Pale Revenant and the Great Mother grew increasingly tense, one clutching at Moon Fairy''s sleeve, the other gripping his ear...

    Moon Fairy looked up helplessly at the Great Mother. Despite her substantial size, her courage was less considerable, and he feared she might yank his ear off if spooked.

    Moon Fairy was about to suggest they rx when his eyes suddenly widened, and he halted.

    "Hush." He signaled for silence, and the two corpse demons instantly stopped and held their breaths.

    Following Moon Fairy¡¯s gaze skyward, they too looked up instinctively.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>From the dense ck mists above came two strange roars, one like the wail of cattle undersh, the other like the breathy gasps of a horse exhausted unto death. Both sounds were grating, filled with a mournful cry as if tormented for an eternity, sending shivers down the spine.

    Moon Fairy listened intently, his eyes narrowing.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He saw them. From the ghostly red-ck fog above, emerged figures with the bodies of burly men, their arms at least twice as thick as Moon Fairy¡¯s legs, all muscle-bound giants. Strangely, these strong men bore not human heads but those of oxen and horses.

    The crescent-shaped horns, the lifeless ck eyes, the broad nostrils, and the elongated horse faces were all vividly clear. Iron rings pierced their bovine and equine nostrils, attached to dark chains that nked ominously.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! </em>They strode through the void, their nostrils puffing out white mist and ck fire, panting heavily as they thundered overhead.

    "Bull-headed and horse-faced?" Moon Fairy was momentarily stunned. Were they human, demons, or ghosts?

    "They''re pulling something..." the Great Mother whispered.

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>The chains they bore shed together, producing a harsh, piercing noise as they stretched out behind, pulling more of these bull-horse strongmen from the mist!

    Moon Fairy quickly counted; in such a short span, their number had already reached the thousands. What were they pulling?

    <em>KLANG! </em>Suddenly, a ghastly, spectral, deathly aura descended upon the world, pressing heavily on the territory around Moon Fairy.

    Following this, the ends of those chains in the ck mist pulled forth a crimson pnquin, tracing a blood-red gxy overhead!

    Though it was but a fleeting glimpse, Moon Fairy could feel the terror emanating from the blood pnquin. It was adorned with wind chimes made of human skulls at its four corners, which nged together with a ''bang bang'', sounding like screams from a tormented sea.

    As the blood pnquin flew overhead, the ck curtains on its side window fluttered momentarily, and Moon Fairy caught a glimpse of a woman dressed in bridal red inside. Her face was marked with a strangely beautiful pattern...

    Suddenly, the woman turned her head sharply, looking down from the heavens above, her pair of blood-red eyes blooming like fiery kapok flowers...

    Moon Fairy remembered that flower! For the blood pnquin was engraved with it all over; it was vibrant yet overpowering, with a bizarrely suffocating allure.

    "She saw me!" Just as Moon Fairy sensed an ominous foreboding, a surge of ck patterns erupted from the blood pnquin, racing along the chains to the thousands of bull-headed and horse-faced beings pulling it.

    The air hummed ominously.

    The bull-headed, horse-faced beings collided, their dark, muscr bodies cushioning the descent.

    For a moment, the blood pnquin hung suspended in the sky!

    With a sudden shift, all the creatures looked downward, their mournful, dark eyes fixing on Moon Fairy and hispanions.

    Thundering booms echoed as they, tethered to the blood pnquin, descended from the heavens,nding forcefully around Moon Fairy, encircling him and the two corpse demons tightly with their formidable ck muscles.

    With a loud crash, they knelt uponnding, raising their hands high, their gazes both frenzied and fearful towards the direction of the blood pnquin.

    The pnquin itselfnded atop the celestial teleportation formation, wobbling a bit. The kapok flowers painted on it seemed to flutter in the wind, and the curtains at the front billowed, asionally revealing shadows of blood mist inside, as if a massive beast from the abyss dwelled within the pnquin.

    Even Yun Xiao felt a bead of sweat form at this eerie spectacle.

    Suddenly, the curtains of the blood pnquin flew open!

    This time, Moon Fairy saw clearly. Seated within was a woman in bridal finery, her hands folded neatly on herp, surrounded by swirling ck and red mists and countless wailing spirits, creating a chilling chorus.

    However, Moon Fairy could not see her face, for it was covered by a red bridal veil embroidered with a vivid kapok flower and a skull.

    ¡°Corpse demons,e.¡±

    The woman in red suddenly spoke these words, her voice hauntingly beautiful, hinting at a tragic beauty. But in this eerie context, even her melodious voice carried a deadly oppressiveness.

    Hearing her words, the Great Mother and Pale Revenant''s hearts raced.

    It seemed they had unwittingly drawn the attention of this unknown entity¡­

    Yun Xiao had thought she was wary of him seeing her face.

    The two corpse demons had inadvertentlye to this ce to protect him, and Yun Xiao felt obliged to take responsibility for them.

    Thus, speaking through Moon Fairy, he bowed respectfully and said, ¡°I am Moon Fairy. Greetings, senior. These two corpse demons are my close friends, and I have promised to take care of them¡­¡±

    Just as Moon Fairy was speaking, the woman in the blood pnquin flicked her finger, and a blood-red shadow shot out at a terrifying speed, striking Moon Fairy instantaneously.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Moon Fairy''s body burst open, severing at the waist, his organs spilling onto the ground, his blood sttering into the shape of a kapok flower.

    "Immortal Yun!!" Pale Revenant and the Great Mother cried out as if struck by lightning, their faces turning deathly pale!

    They hadn''t anticipated that a dignitary of the Six Paths of Reincarnation could be so brutally direct. Yun Xiao had spoken courteously, but she hadn''t bothered to listen, choosing to annihte at her whim!

    Before they could rush to Moon Fairy''s aid, two blood-shadow hands stretched out from the pnquin, brutally dragging them inside.

    <em>CRACK! SMASH! </em>The hands crushed the two corpse demons into bloody masses, tossing them into a corner of the pnquin.

    Throughout this, the woman and the surrounding bull-headed, horse-faced creatures didn''t waste a word.

    "Immortal Yun!" The Great Mother roared, her eyes bulging out of the blood mass, staring furiously at the woman. "I will kill you!"

    "Oh?" The woman in the pnquin paused, "You''re fortunate indeed. Act nice, and maybe you''ll be my servants."

    As she spoke, the pnquin started to move again.

    "Wait!"

    Moon Fairy''s upper body suddenly rose, ring intensely at the woman. "What¡¯s your name? Where do you live?"

    The woman in the pnquin paused again. These creatures... Where did they get such courage? She felt a flicker of interest and asked softly, "And why would you want to know?"

    "To return the favor a hundredfold one day," Moon Fairy replied, blood dripping from his eyes.

    The woman in the pnquin chuckled softly.

    "My name is Yanfu Tan. You can find me in the Sea of Bitter Blessings," she said gently.

    Moon Fairy replied coldly, "Fine, I''ll remember you, Yanfu Tan!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 739: Bizarre Afterlife!

    Chapter 739: Bizarre Afterlife!

    Under the canopy of her blood pnquin, the woman cast a disdainful gaze that soared high into the heavens, her eyes piercing through the red veil to scorn the diminutive fox below.

    "Tedious," she dered with a flick of her wrist, pressing down.

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! </em>Moon Fairy''s body, split and bleeding, crumbled under the force like grain beneath a millstone, his form dispersing into a cloud of bloody dust, ground into the earth.

    To be ground like soy milk in such a manner meant a death from which there was no return.

    "Immortal Yun..."

    Even knowing this was but a body double of Yun Xiao, the hearts of the Great Mother and Pale Revenant shattered in that moment.

    With a single, devastating strike, the woman in the blood pnquin articted the harsh rules of survival in the Six Paths of Reincarnation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A thousand tormented spirits bellowed, surging skyward, and in a mere instant, they whisked the blood pnquin away, plunging into the vortex of the abyss beyond.

    Silence fell over this blood-soakednd, a dead hush!<em>SIZZLE! CRACK! SMUSH! </em>The crushed bone and flesh, under a gathering force, began to coalesce and bind together.

    "Ouch, ouch, ouch..."

    With each faint groan, as time trickled by, a figure took shape¡ªa youth with snow-white hair and silver fox ears, miraculously congealed into form.

    "The Divine Destion Physique is mighty indeed, to not perish after something like that," Moon Fairy gasped, a sensation of lifetimes between breaths washing over him.

    "Isn¡¯t it my doing? Without my vitality, you¡¯d have long perished!" a pair of dull yellow eyes joked, opening upon his face.

    "The flesh holds because of my skill." Two crimson eyes red on Moon Fairy¡¯s forehead.

    "Enough!"

    inly put, this unkible talent was rooted in the Divine Destion Physique, enhanced by the Seed of Creation from both the Nian and Yaksha Ancestor.

    Even Yun Xiao''s true selfcked this ability. Moreover, even if the body double and the original were to merge, this capability could not be transferred to Yun Xiao¡¯s flesh; only Moon Fairy could survive being crushed into meat paste.

    "Whew..."

    Despite this, Moon Fairy was immensely weakened, hisplexion even paler, his appearance frail, more akin to a delicate white vixen now.

    However, the fire of his anger brewed endlessly within him.

    "Yanfu Tan, <em>blessings through spit</em>, is it? I don''t care whose spit it is, daring to steal my corpse demons and snatch my life¡­ you''re dead!"

    Moon Fairy had entered the Six Paths of Reincarnation Realm with the primary goal of understanding the third Dao Source. Now, he had an additional, more immediate purpose¡ªrevenge!

    And who knew how this crazed woman would treat Pale Revenant and the Great Mother? Should she take displeasure, their end would be grievous indeed...

    "Sea of Bitter Blessings, wait and see."

    Moon Fairy, once embraced on both sides, now stood alone¡ªnever had he been more vtile.

    All this while, Yun Xiao had been honing this body double, which had hardly ventured alone. Now, equipped with the powers of the Immortal Asylum, Nian, and Yaksha Ancestor, his capabilities were formidable!

    His silver eyes stared fixedly at the vast expanse of the Six Paths of Reincarnation before him.

    It was just a blood pnquin, yet Yun Xiao found himself beginning to despise this strange world...

    "Alone, am I? So be it. No need to hold back, no concerns for repercussions."

    If he could survive what had just happened, what was there to fear? Let the world be as bizarre as it wished, Yun Xiao cared no longer. Boldly and openly, his body double strode toward the six endless vortexes.

    Ironically, the more he ceased to conceal his movements, the safer his journey became.

    As Moon Fairy neared the massive entrances of the vortexes, he gradually encountered fellow travelers.

    These travelers, heads bowed in nervous anticipation, moved toward the world of the Six Paths of Reincarnation, their faces pale and expressions grave. Among them were humans and demons, mostly of older age.

    There were also devils, half-devils, Yokai, Dokkaebis¡­ a whole chaotic mix that opened Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes to the diversity of life in this world.

    "Sir, are you in a hurry to reincarnate?"

    Moon Fairy''s shoulder was bumped by an old man with thinning hair, prompting him to strike up a conversation.

    The old man red at him, muttering a prayer, "May the Buddha save me from the Beast Path. I pray that I won''t enter the Beast Path!"

    "Really reincarnating? But you''re flesh and blood, not a deceased spirit," Moon Fairy asked in confusion. Reincarnation usually followed death. Yet here were these beings, none of whom appeared dead.

    "Speaking such foolishness in a ce of rebirth, you truly are an idiot!" The old man shot Moon Fairy a look of exasperation and briskly walked forward. His expression turned obsequious as he chuckled to the air, "Grandfather Six-Eyed Pandemonium. Yes, it¡¯s me again! This time, I wish to mend my ways in my third life. Please grace me by letting me enter the Human Path!"

    With that, the old man walked on, pulling several fragrant celestial fruits from his Bag of Holding, offering them forward with a sycophantic smile. "This is to show my respect to you, Grandfather!"

    Whaty ahead? Moon Fairy, initially seeing nothing, took a few more steps forward and was stunned to discover a colossal beast beside the six boundless vortex abysses!

    At first nce, Moon Fairy mistook it for a corpse demon!

    This immense creature dwarfed even the flesh mounds of corpses, being 1,000 timesrger. It clung to the world like a giant grub on a coffin, devoid of arms or legs, possessing only a fleshy body with six enormous eyes spread across it.

    The Six-Eyed Pandemonium? This was neither a corpse demon nor a regr demon, and whether it counted as a special life form or something akin to the Nian or Yaksha Ancestor was unclear.

    At that moment, the Six-Eyed Pandemonium writhed, its massive eyes swirling chaotically, each capable of emitting thousands of beams of light that <em>snatched</em> the neers and thrust them into the vortexes behind it.

    "Please, I want to enter the Heaven Path!"

    Screams filled the air as each neer was flung toward its back.

    "Your third time around and only these paltry offerings? Starve as a hungry ghost then!"

    Those fattening words echoed by the old man''s ear right before he screamed, hurled into the second tost abyss, disappearing from sight.

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! WHOOSH! </em>The Six-Eyed Pandemonium, feasting on the <em>tributes</em> through its gaze while tossing people rapidly, its entire massive body undted in a disturbing spectacle!

    "And you! You! You saucy fox, where¡¯s your tribute?" Suddenly, a greasy voice sounded right next to Moon Fairy¡¯s ear.

    He looked up to find one of the Six-Eyed Pandemonium¡¯s eyes, a glint of residual light focusing on him.

    "I..." Moon Fairy, for a moment, didn''t know what to offer.

    His hesitation displeased the Six-Eyed Pandemonium, which sinisterly remarked, "What is this, piss broke and you still want to reincarnate? Continue as a beast in your next life!"

    As the words fell, a beam shot from that eye, thrusting Moon Fairy into the deepest, lowest vortex abyss!

    Around him, the howls and screams of various wild beasts and demons filled the air, making his skin crawl.

    "Regardless, at least I''ve entered the world of the Six Paths of Reincarnation..."

    Yun Xiao found everything here utterly preposterous.

    In the light of the Six-Eyed Pandemonium, he continued through the dark chaos until finally, he mmed into the marsh-like ground. Alongside him fell a variety of demons, some unfortunate humans, and a collection of bizarre oddities!

    "Into the Soul Refining Cauldron, quick! Those with good talents in destion might have a chance to stay in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, to live eternally!"

    He had just entered when all he could see was pitch-ck fog. Moon Fairy hadn¡¯t even made out his surroundings when a sticky voice thundered above him, piercing his ears painfully.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <em>GURGLE! GURGLE! GURGLE! </em>Then, he heard the deafening sound of bubbling oil exploding, as waves of heat like volcanicva surged toward him, indicating that the ''cauldron'' ahead was exceedingly hot!

    "The scent of the destion...!" Moon Fairy shuddered all over and moved toward the front, only to see a vast basin ahead. Above the basin roared towering ck mes, scorching the sky to a charred ck!

    Was this Soul Refining Cauldron made of the wastnd itself?

    Back in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, Yun Xiao was preparing for his confrontation with Lu Fan, and here his body double faced tumultuous ups and downs, inevitably distracting him.

    He could only focus on this Soul Refining Cauldron! He thought he heard something about destion talents? To remain in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, to live forever without reincarnating?

    <em>THUMP! THUMP! </em>Suddenly, heavy thuds came from the side.

    Turning in that direction, he saw next to the Soul Refining Cauldron a ck octopus one-sixth the size of the Six-Eyed Pandemonium. This ck octopus had numerous tentacles, each festooned with huge tumors, and most strikingly, its head was a human skull.

    With the head of a human and the body of an octopus, the creature''s immense form was indeed a sight to puzzle over.

    <em>THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! </em>At that moment, its octopus tentacles hammered away inside a small cauldron, the sound echoing loudly, sttering countless scorching droplets!

    Faintly visible, the cauldron''s contents under the pounding were meatballs. Under the relentless beating, each meatball became springier, and frying in the oil, they emitted an irresistibly delicious aroma.

    "Takoyaki, tasty!" The skeletal octopus, a deathly creature, scooped up a golden, buttery meatball and swallowed it whole. Despite the skull''s face, it seemed to relish the taste immensely.

    "What?"

    Was this some sort of morbid scene?

    An octopus pounding takoyaki to eat!

    "What are you staring at? Into the cauldron with all of you for the great king!"

    After gobbling down the takoyaki, the skeletal octopus bellowed and, with a flick of its immense tentacles, swept thousands of <em>neers</em> straight into the cauldron, which roared like moltenva from a volcano.

    For now, Moon Fairy put aside the bizarre and the absurd as he looked down. Below was a bubbling ck sea, the scalding liquid continuously burping bubbles. Countless bodies, fried to a golden crisp and aromatic, were scooped up by the skeletal octopus and pounded into takoyaki to be devoured.

    "Would that still be considered takoyaki, then?" Moon Fairy couldn''t help butment dryly.

    But all that was trivial now. What mattered was the confirmation that the <em>oil </em>within this Soul Refining Cauldron was mostly destion!

    Elsewhere, at the edge of the ck mist, the sounds of a massive army thundered, and amidst cries both agonized and exhrated, someone shouted, "The Destion Corps is recruiting!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 740: Explosive She-Bear!

    Chapter 740: Explosive She-Bear!

    "The Destion Corps?" Moon Fairy hadn''t yet touched down upon the Soul Refining Cauldron when the distant rumble of an earth-shattering roar reached his ears.

    Beastly roars that shook the soul swept across from that direction, causing the ck oil in the Soul Refining Cauldron to violently churn, throwing up great waves of scalding oil.

    Moon Fairy steadied himself, looking toward the cacophony. There, amidst swirling ck mists, charged countless massive demons, shrieking and roaring, unmasking their savage power as a veritable army of destruction.

    "The Destion Corps! The legendary Destion Corps!"

    Those who had been dropped alongside Moon Fairy just outside the Soul Refining Cauldron shouted sharply, their voices filled with a mix of awe, fear, and envy.

    "To remain forever in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, better than being reborn five times over!"

    "They say the strong and the gifted of the Six Paths of Reincarnation surpass many from Immortal realms. Those who remain are truly the elite of myriad daos!"

    "Being chosen by the Destion Corps is an opportunity!"

    "Whether one can escape the limits of lifespan and transcend the cycle of reincarnation to attain eternal life depends on this chance¡­"Hearing these intense and fervent desires, Moon Fairy confirmed one thing.

    "To remain in the Six Paths of Reincarnation could actually mean eternal life?"

    Isn''t that what all cultivators sought¡ªto achieve immortality? Here, many outsiders nearing the end of their lifespans, old beings, were also seeking another life. And the White Emperor, for immortality, did not hesitate to torment living beings¡­

    The temptation of eternal life was immense for everyone.

    Of course, Yun Xiao himself felt little; his entry into the path of cultivation was too recent. As long as he didn''t die, he didn''t yet know how to <em>spend</em> the next few centuries. And if he continued to grow, it would be much more than a few centuries.

    However, Moon Fairy was intensely interested in <em>remaining </em>within the Six Paths of Reincarnation!

    "My little maid and the Great Mother have been abducted, and this great coffin is the Third Dao Source. If I just follow the process and reincarnate now, what a tremendous loss that would be."

    Moon Fairy''s resolve was firm; he knew that he had to join this Destion Corps today, to be a part of the Six Paths of Reincarnation.

    "Here theye!"

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The demon Destion Corps surged forward, a horde of bloodthirsty, savage demons appearing above the Soul Refining Cauldron, each obscuring the sky, fierce and ferocious.

    ¡°These celestial demons of the Destion Corps must all be in the Fourth Dao Tribtion!¡±

    Yun Xiao, still ignorant of the true nature of the Fourth Dao Tribtion, could feel that each of these demons of the Six Paths of Reincarnation surpassed even the Great Mother in might.

    The only puzzle was the absence of a <em>Corona</em> like that of the Divine Imperial Son atop the heads of these celestial demons. This suggested that after nearly identical cultivation systems in the Third Dao Tribtion, the Fourth Dao Tribtion likely diverged significantly!

    Thousands of fierce demons from the Fourth Dao Tribtion thundered overhead, imposing a considerable pressure on the outsiders below. Many among them broke out in cold sweat, their breathing heavy.

    ¡°That demon is the leader¡­¡± Moon Fairy¡¯s silver eyes locked onto a massive demon at the forefront. Shrouded in thick ck mist and scorching ck mes, its form was thergest, brimming with wild, terrifying power.

    His gaze prated the ck mist and mes, barely making out that the leader of this Destion Corps was a bear demon¡ªcertainly no ordinary bear, but a bloodline-rich devil bear.

    Its muscles bulged, fur bristly. With every swing of its massive arms, it seemed the very heavens and earth could be torn asunder. When its massive maw opened, its throat seemed to also contain a Soul Refining Cauldron, its breath a jet of ckened fire.

    ¡°It¡¯s clear now, this Destion Corps is primarily demonic, perhaps a self-standing military force of the Beast Path?¡±

    Though there were only 1,000 demons, they alone could trample the Constetion Army and 18 Department Legions countless times over without suffering a scratch!

    ¡°So formidable! Worthy of a world whose resources exceed the Great Dao Celestial Realm by thousands of times!¡±

    Such a world would naturally birth treasures and monstrosities at a rate thousands of times that of the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    ¡°I wonder, is Lil Xi''s Ancestral Land stronger, or this Six Paths of Reincarnation?¡±

    Moon Fairy rapidly absorbed all the information before him. While his true body remained trapped in the Celestial Court, his body double had already begun to gather resources, paving the way for his future.

    If Moon Fairy could escape, deciding where his true self should go was crucial¡ªthe Ancestral Land or Six Paths of Reincarnation?

    As Moon Fairy pondered this, the celestial demons of the Destion Corps transformed into human forms!

    One by one, they took on a fearsome, awe-inspiring human appearance, barely concealing their bestial nature. Transformed, they resembled a true army of destruction, orderly and stern, d in rigid ck armor.

    This armor, coursing with the vast and wild power of destion, indicated it was a type of Destion Armor. Unlike celestial battle armor, it offered little protection, crafted solely to temper the body at all times!

    From afar, the breasttes of these 1,000 warriors of the Destion Corps bore the carving of a ferocious ck bear, underscoring the bear¡¯s dominant authority within the group.

    "The ck Brute Bear, that''s the one¡­"

    Even the reincarnated souls around knew the identity of this leader.

    Moon Fairy followed the gazes of the onlookers to the front of the Destion Corps, and when he first saw the human form of the ck Brute Bear, he was stunned.

    "A woman?" Moon Fairy muttered to himself.

    "A female!" the Nian scoffed.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Your mother was a female too," the Yaksha Ancestor retorted.

    "I have no mother!"

    These two Sins of Heaven were neverfortable unless they were bickering, but Moon Fairy''s attention waspletely captured by this human-formed ck Brute Bear.

    Above in the vast sky, a woman d in ck battle armor stood suspended in air. She towered eight feet tall, broader than the Great Mother.

    Of course, her breadth was not due to fatness but to a well-defined, explosive figure. Though she gave off an impression of voluptuousness, her delicate body was actually packed with muscles strong enough to lift mountains. Her contours were dramatically pronounced, both beautiful and terrifying.

    And yet, this striking physique was paired with a cold, enchanting oval face. Her straight, regal nose and vibrant red lips made it impossible to associate her with a <em>bear</em>.

    If one had to describe her in a word, it would be <em>explosive</em>. Everything about her was bursting. Especially the protrusions and curves, shockingly pronounced whether in chest te or battle dress, nearly bursting at the seams, daring onlookers not to stare.

    With such a violent physique and seductive features, this leader of the Destion Corps was undoubtedly the center of attention wherever she went.

    "Don¡¯t stare, or the <em>Colonel</em> might tten you into a pulp herself!"

    Many nearby looked away, but Moon Fairy¡¯s eyes lingered on this explosive she-bear for a moment longer.

    "It seems, though essentially a bear, if she transforms, she¡¯s still eptable¡­" Moon Fairy mused.

    While his true self might not ept it, his body double, being a beast, didn¡¯t have those kinds of repulsions. Besides, the Phoenix Empress was still waiting for Moon Fairy in the Nine Hells. Having experienced birds, why fear a mammal?

    But Yun Xiao soon came to his senses. Now was a critical moment for his body double to seize the chance to remain in the Six Paths of Reincarnation. Any unrealistic and frivolous thoughts seemed somewhat sordid in the face of such a vast disparity in power.

    "Steady." Moon Fairy took a deep breath, lowered his head, and looked away from the fiery and formidable ketone body above.

    "Colonel!"

    At that moment, a ck-haired young man appeared among the Destion Corps. He was strikingly handsome and pure, with a pair of ck fox ears visible, and nine fox tails behind him.

    Undoubtedly, this was a powerful ck fox demon.

    The ck fox demon''s physique was slender, quite simr to Yun Xiao''s true self, including a certain debonair ir. He approached the ck Brute Bear and asked respectfully, "Shall we begin the selection now?"

    "Go." Unlike her explosive physique, the ck-armored woman¡¯s voice was delicate and somewhatnguid. Her simplemand stirred the hearts of many male beasts.

    "At once!"

    The ck fox demon rose, turned, and led a group of transformed demons from the Destion Corps down towards the Soul Refining Cauldron.

    "Quick! They¡¯reing, get into the oil."

    "Seize the opportunity."

    "Hold on¡­"

    Moon Fairy, witnessing this, also descended towards the cauldron.

    "It seems the Destion Corps seeks to select Deste Demons?"

    Deste Demons referred to those with a highpatibility with destion, more capable of absorbing its power. This attribute existed in all levels of demons, varying only in degree. Unrted to one¡¯s bloodline heritage, it was a different kind of talent.

    Such a talent supposedly did not enhance a demon''s upper limit but determined the speed at which that limit was reached. Bloodline and other talents were the real limit-setters.

    "My Divine Destion Physique doesn¡¯t showcase bloodline or other talents, but my destion talent is maxed out¡­"

    To stay, Moon Fairy decided to disy just a portion of this talent¡ªcertainly not all. This was a perilously dangerous world!

    Yanfu Tan had already exposed him to this world''s cruelty.

    "Pity¡­"

    Moon Fairy looked down at the Soul Refining Cauldron with some regret. He wanted to absorb it wildly. But how could he with that monstrous skeletal octopus overhead and arge number of the Destion Corps watching closely?

    He used destion to enhance his Divine Destion Physique and break through, different from corpse demons that could use it to instantly grow stronger. So, it was impossible for him to plunder endlessly under the noses of such powerful beings.

    That would surely be suicide!

    There were eyes all over the Soul Refining Cauldron! That octopus was especially attentive, its tentacles <em>stirring</em> the oil and causing a tumultuous upheaval.

    Even the ck Brute Bear was now bowing to this cephalopod!

    "Best to y it safe, follow the steps, get in the game first, then climb up."

    In a perilous world, haste would make him stick out. And the more he stuck out, the more dangerous it would be.

    Yun Xiao steadied his heart and let his body double sink into the Soul Refining Cauldron.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>The temperature of the oil was exceedingly high, instantly turning his whole body bright red, his silver hair standing on end, and his pale <em>beautiful</em> face blushing deeply¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 741: Invincible Within the Third Dao Tribulation!

    Chapter 741: Invincible Within the Third Dao Tribtion!

    "Wow, that''s quite something fierce. The destion in this boiling oil, I wonder what grade it is?"

    Moon Fairy soaked in the boiling oil, resisting the blistering heat while absorbing the destion and refining his Divine Destion Physique. He also kept one eye on the movements of the Destion Corps.

    He saw the members of the Destion Corps descending personally with ck beads in hand. As the neers absorbed and endured the power of destion, they brought the ck beads close.

    "Does the more violent resonance of the bead indicate a higher destion talent?" Moon Fairy mused.

    After observing for a while, he noticed that most outsiders could not cause the ck bead to tremble. Only a few did, ever so slightly!

    Then those testers of the Destion Corps would smile, pat the tested on the shoulder, and usher them forward!

    Those demons who passed the test were overwhelmed with tears and gratitude, repeatedly thanking their testers.

    Even as they suppressed their emotions, it was clear¡ªthey had ascended dramatically!

    "You."Moon Fairy was still looking elsewhere when suddenly a voice sounded in front of him. His heart sank. Someone hade so close without his notice, a sign of formidable strength. He looked up to see a ck fox floating before him, evidently of high status.

    The ck fox looked at him with interest, a ghost of a smile asking, "Youngdy, where might you be from?"

    "My lord, I''m a man," Moon Fairy responded, exasperated.

    "Huh?!" The ck fox nearly bit his own tongue, his eyes bulging as he incredulously nced down at Moon Fairy''s groin. Then, his face scrunched up as if he''d swallowed a fly.

    "What a freak," the ck fox spat, his expression undergoing aplete transformation as he turned to leave.

    "My lord. The test is not yet done," Moon Fairy called after him. Despite the misunderstanding and difort, he was determined to seize his chance. But the ck fox paid him no heed.

    Such was the reality in the Six Paths of Reincarnation! Beyond power, status, and lineage, gender too was a draw. Without these, it was hard to gain respect.

    Seeing the cold attitude of the ck fox, Moon Fairy knew he might miss his opportunity. Without a word, he intensified his efforts, absorbing more of the destion!

    Buzz!

    The Soul Refining Cauldron formed a small vortex, roaring towards Moon Fairy, drawing the attention and gasps of many.

    Crack, crack, crack!

    The ck fox had barely taken a few steps when the ck bead in his hand began to tremble violently. The resonance surpassed anything he''d seen in the past.

    "Is it broken?"

    The ck fox puzzled, then slowly turned back to see Moon Fairy within the swirling vortex of the hot oil. His brow furrowed.

    "Hey, fancy a change in nature?" he asked, his voice eerie as he clutched the vibrating ck bead.

    "No?" Moon Fairy shook his head.

    "Then die!" With a snort, the ck fox suddenly spat out a ck tongue, sharp as a sword, that instantly pierced through Moon Fairy''s throat.

    "Urk?" Moon Fairy was stunned. To die for wanting to remain a man¡ªwas the world this mad?

    He clutched at the blood spilling from his throat, still adjusting to the rules of this society. Compared to the false pretenses of the Celestial Court, everything here was more brutal.

    Thinking him dead, the ck fox turned away without another nce.

    The onlookers shivered down to their spines at the sight, their envy of Moon Fairy turning instantly to pity.

    "Too much talent, without a way to use it, is also a curse!"

    A sad chill settled in everyone''s heart.

    The ck fox tightened his grip on the bead, thinking himself unnoticed in erasing a genius. But as he turned, a shadow that blotted out the sun appeared.

    "Colonel..." His voice trembled as he slowly looked up to see two towering peaks locked in armor. Above them was a face that took his breath away.

    "Is there trouble here?" The voice of the ck Brute Bear was chilling, somewhat merciless.

    "Nothing..."

    Just as the ck fox began to speak, the bead in his hand trembled violently.

    "What?!"

    He shook, disbelieving. At that moment, he gasped, turning back to see Moon Fairy, who should have been dead, still absorbing the destion within the Soul Refining Cauldron. His throat bore a bloody mark, but it seemed to be healing.

    ¡°That''s impossible¡­¡± The ck fox was absolutely certain¡ªa Third Dao Tribtion fox demon should have died from one of his strikes without fail!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The woman d in ck armor extended her jade hand, taking the vibrating ck bead. Her deep, beautiful eyes glistened slightly as they rested on Moon Fairy¡¯s form.

    ¡°I shall bring you into the Destion Corps. What is your wish?¡± the woman in ck armor asked.

    Moon Fairy rose from the Soul Refining Cauldron, his gazending on the ck fox. With a smile, he said, ¡°I want him dead.¡±

    ¡°Colonel!¡± The ck fox, terrified, quickly turned to face the woman in ck armor, about to plead his case.

    <em>SMACK! </em>Two bear paws pped together, instantly ttening his head into a patty perched atop his neck.

    ¡°GUGH!¡± The ck fox¡¯s eyes squeezed together, his expression dimming as he fell like a kite with its string cut, plunging into the Soul Refining Cauldron, never to resurface.

    With the ck fox gone, no barriers remained between Moon Fairy and the woman in ck armor.

    She moved like a ck wind, instantly appearing before Moon Fairy. Hermanding eyes surveyed him from head to toe.

    ¡°Colonel!¡±

    Just as Moon Fairy was about to speak, the woman in ck armor suddenly scooped him up, slinging him over her shoulder, patted his backside, and strode away."Kyakakak, looks like the colonel''s bagged herself a pretty boy!" "Whew, I almost feel bad for him."''"Let''s see how long hests!"¡­

    The Destion Corps erupted in excited shouts, making Yun Xiao think his body double hadnded in some primal jungle.

    <em>SPLASH! </em>Before long, a giant tentacle from the enormous skeletal octopus in the Soul Refining Cauldron scooped up a fried, crispy golden ck fox, beginning to pound it into takoyaki¡­

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Great Dao Celestial Realm¡­

    "Achoo!" Yun Xiao''s face turned red as he sneezed uncontrobly within the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    Such a loud noise within this enclosed space startled the War Princess, who was diligently cultivating, almost causing a mishap.

    ¡°What are you doing? I was about to break through to the Dawn God Realm, and you interrupted me,¡± the War Princessined.

    ¡°Break through, my foot. You were dreaming of breaking through.¡± Yun Xiao looked at her, somewhat impressed.

    Even at this critical time, she had made a bed inside the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, lying beside Yun Xiao to sleep soundly¡­ Never mind anything else, but with such curves before him, how could it not affect his cultivation?

    "Eh?" The War Princess was puzzled as she moved closer, asking suspiciously, "Why is your face red?"

    No sooner had she asked than she nced down and saw something stirring beneath him, which frightened her so much that her legs went weak. She quickly rolled away, covering her chest, and said, "Lu Fan is not dead yet; he could appear at any moment. Don''t get carried away..."

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath and said, "It has nothing to do with you."

    "It''s just us here." She snorted, still quite confident.

    "Alright then..." Yun Xiao couldn''t tell her that the Moon Fairy body double was under tremendous pressure!

    They shared one soul, so it was normal to be affected. Sometimes, when Moon Fairy took a beating, he could feel the pain himself.

    However, this body double was all about experiencing <em>life</em>¡ªwhether getting beaten or whatever else, Yun Xiao couldn''t care less about it anymore. He cherished the freedom of his true self the most.

    He sighed, casting aside the troubles of the body double, and focused on making his breakthrough.

    After taking down the White Emperor and Constetion Army, all the wealth of the Celestial Court fell into Yun Xiao''s hands. This amount was equivalent to ten Thunder Departments!

    Moreover, the Divine Imperial Son had also left quite a few treasures!

    So, after letting Red Moon and Blue Star eat their fill, the two were starting to trickle down the benefits.

    Yun Xiao was making rapid progress with his cultivation. Before Lu Fan could reappear, he''d push his true self and Blood Base to the Establishment Night God Realm, just a step shy of the Dawn God Realm.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "My true self alone is almost invincible within the Third Dao Tribtion!"

    After consolidating his cultivation, Yun Xiao finally stood up.

    During this time, he had devoured everything from the White Emperor and Divine Imperial Son, umting resources every moment, preparing for the final battle with the Chaos Soul!

    The capital he had amassed was much greater than before.

    Yun Xiao stretchedzily, his conviction much strengthened.

    The Celestial Court, though still resplendent, was now utterly deserted, a silent void.

    Yun Xiao waited quietly here, for his adversary to arrive...

 Chapter 742: Taiji Double Fish Gate!

    Chapter 742: Taiji Double Fish Gate!

    Within the spiritual ne of the Gate of Death, Yun Xiao wielded his two spirits, the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit and Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, through the dense mist towards the Gate of Life.

    The Gate of Life was a pale vortex that zed like the sun, casting a ray of hope across the dark and gloomy expanse.

    The Great Dao Celestial Realm''s passage from death to life was previously under the control of the Celestial Court''s imperial family. But with the defeat of the White Emperor, Yun Xiao and his Blood Base were free to cultivate their astral bodies, allowing them to break through this critical juncture in no time.

    Yun Xiao was now strong enough to easily crush the White Emperor with the Immortal Asylum just by himself. Yet, it was still not enough.

    He and Lu Fan were locked in a final contest of advancement and recovery, each striving to outpace the other in thesest critical moments. Progress and healing were the currency of survival, and in this race against time, Yun Xiao feared no one. His evolution, moment by moment, outstripped the healing of others as if in defiance of the very concept of recovery.

    Despite breaking through four stages and reaching the pinnacle of the Night God Realm, his ambition remained unquenched. Lu Fan had vanished again, hiding where none could find him. In his absence, Yun Xiao surged forward with relentless vigor.

    Standing before the Gate of Life, Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit and Mortal Dust Devil Spirit were poised like warriors before battle. They had charged the gate several times before, each attempt ending in failure.

    But now, Yun Xiao had finally finished integrating the Buddha''s Treasures from the Constetion Army and Imperial Divine Son. He''d also absorbed some more Origin Orbs, bolstering his spirit even more.

    The Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, partly born of the Creator Immortal, could also absorb Origin Orbs. Even without sharing the path of Yun Xiao''s true self, it still advanced swiftly.After every failure, the two gained new insights.

    The Buddha''s Treasure Spirit inhaled deeply¡ªa gesture engrained in habit rather than a physical necessity¡ªand braced itself.

    "Prepare!"

    Leading the charge, the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit transformed into a tinum de, a soul sword that struck towards the Gate of Life. Trailing closely was the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, now a divine crimson dragon.

    The two were not just attacking in tandem to increase their odds but to strengthen their will and magnify their presence¡ªa sword and dragon, one following the other, an unyielding assault wrapped in tinum light and blood mist, their cries harmonizing in a chorus of metal and myth.

    With a resonant hum, Yun Xiao struck the Gate of Life as if he had collided with a marsh of holy light. Infinite oppressive forces bore down upon his spirit, slowing his advance as if 1,000,000 hands sought to entangle him, preventing his spirit from breaking its bonds.

    The blood dragon faced a simr ordeal.

    "The Third Dao Tribtion, the spirit¡¯s path to immortality, from death to life, rebirth through the Taiji... This step is but amonce one along the celestialdder, isn''t it?

    "If it''s so ordinary, how could it possibly stop me..."

    Yun Xiao¡¯s will soared to the heavens, his true self and his body double each uniquely different in demeanor; his gaze and presence as the Creator Immortal bore an inherent quality that looked down upon all.

    Fueled by a mortal breath within his chest, his fighting spirit was as vast as the ocean, burning fiercely like the essence of immortality itself!

    The Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, transformed into a sword, emitted a piercing screech as it gathered the essence of myriad beings, charging forth in tumultuous fury.

    Finally, the sword shattered its shackles!

    With a resounding hum, the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit entered a world aglow with light.

    Yun Xiao eased, graduallying to a halt.

    "So this is the world within the Gate of Life..."

    He calmed down, gazing into the white mist that surrounded him.

    "The Death Gate wounds, its mist erodes and forges the spirit, while the Gate of Life nourishes, its white mist fostering the spirit..."

    The difference was stark!

    Upon entering the Gate of Life, Yun Xiao felt a profoundfort, as if his spirit bathed in warm milk, savoring its sweetness. Remaining here would only further strengthen his spirit through this nurturing environment.

    It seemed the Gate of Life was far superior to the Gate of Death!

    But that was not truly the case. Forging and nurturing were both indispensable; hardship followed by recovery crafted true transformation.

    As Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit settled, the blood dragon burst through the Gate of Life behind him. Upon entry, it was immediately enveloped by the thick, nurturing mist of life.

    "It''s much morefortable here inside the Gate of Life!" the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit dered, its voice echoing that of the War Princess.

    This was no surprise. After all, the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit was formed from both her and Yun Xiao.

    "Hmm..."

    Without much ado, Yun Xiao drifted through the mist of the Gate of Life, slowly making his way to its end.

    Meanwhile, he controlled the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit as it searched the surroundings.

    "Is there no one here?" the War Princess asked.

    "If there is, it could only be Lu Fan," Yun Xiao replied.

    "From death to life, wandering through the Taiji, where is the Taiji?" She followed curiously behind, the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit''s eyes scanning everywhere like a child in wonder.

    "I''m looking for it."

    Soon enough, Yun Xiao found it.

    "Over here."

    He ventured deeper into the white mist, towards a Taiji vortex that resembled the entrance to Naraka. The vortex, made up of two cloud-formed fish chasing each other''s tails in an endless dance, spun ceaselessly, embodying the cycle of life!

    "This is also a gate," Yun Xiao dered.

    "If we transcend this gate, do we reach the Fourth Dao Tribtion? With circles growing behind our heads?" the War Princess inquired.

    "I guess so..." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Should we try to rush this gate?" she asked again.

    "Why so many questions today?" Yun Xiao looked back at her.

    Gradually, he relinquishedplete control of the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit to her.

    "No reason, just a pure, burning passion and desire for cultivation," the War Princess exined.

    "Heh." Yun Xiao could hardly be bothered with her; he was dragging her along, and she had flopped down again.

    He attempted to approach the Taiji Double Fish Gate. When he came within about 30 meters, the gate, like a massive maw, unleashed a formidable force that repelled Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit.

    After several tries, the results were the same.

    Forget breaking through the gate or exploring the world beyond; getting within 30 meters was a challenge in itself.

    "You try," Yun Xiao suggested to the War Princess.

    "Let''s give it a shot!"

    With a huff, she charged toward the double fish gate.

    <em>THUMP! </em>About 60 meters away, she hit it like a wall of iron, crashing back into the embrace of Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit in a disheveled heap.

    "What''s that look for? I just didn¡¯t perform well. Watch me try again!" the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit protested.

    "Let it be." Yun Xiao tossed her aside.

    She wanted to redeem herself, but Yun Xiao didn''t even need his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit to restrain her; he could control the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit anytime on his own.

    At the beginning of their journey through the Dawn God Realm, Yun Xiao advised patience, a matter of days, not months or years.

    "Did you hear that? There''s a sounding from beyond this gate," the War Princess suddenly remarked.

    Even from 60 meters away, the noise was unmistakable.

    Yun Xiao fell silent, listening intently.

    "Indeed! It sounds like many are passing and conversing at the entrance of the Taiji gate..."

    His curiosity piqued. Within the spiritual nes of the Gates of Life and Death were only the beings of the Great Dao Celestial Realm and Naraka. Yet, the Taiji gate appeared to be crowded with people.

    Who were these individuals, and from which world did they hail?

    Yun Xiao pondered as he listened to the ephemeral voices.

    "Brother Solitude, wait for me!"

    "Kind Immortal, could you direct me to the Wavewind District?"

    "Father! There''s a spirit source over there! Let''s rest a bit."

    Gradually, Yun Xiao realized these weren''t direct conversations from behind the gate but rather a jumble of sounds from various locales, adding to the confusion.

    "The most beautiful in the Samsara Gxy?"

    "Let''s all go to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects..."

    "If you manage to get into the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, I''ll eat my own dung standing on my head!"

    Standing there, thest phrase Yun Xiao discerned was the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yet, it was challenging to ascertain exactly what the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was, as the snippets of conversation floating through were iplete and disjointed.

    "The more I listen, the more I want to burst through this gate to see what world lies within the Taiji, and what kind of people inhabit it," the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit pouted.

    "Soon. It won''t be long," Yun Xiao said, his gaze serene.

    "Samsara Gxy, Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects?"

    That must be the world of the Divine Imperial Son and Heavenly Monarch Mu. Could passing through this gate take them to the imperial family''s Ancestral Land? It seemed not, for this was a gate for spirits, not for corporeal bodies.

    The conversations beyond, too, had to be among spirits.

    "But no matter what, this gate has given me a chance to reach beyond this world..."

    Like Lu Fan, Yun Xiao now also felt like a caged beast.

    The sense of imprisonment that Lu Fan experienced when he touched the limits of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, Yun Xiao felt it too.

    It was an ufortable feeling.

    So, he harbored a fierce desire to break through this world.

    "Are the two crickets in a bowl only able to see the outside world if one survives?"

    Yun Xiao gazed at the Taiji Double Fish Gate, from which idle chatter drifted continuously, his eyes alight with a fierce glow.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, the Beast Path¡­

    Beside the Soul Refining Cauldron, where ck smoke swirled, loud explosions rocked the air.

    The violent sounds of flesh colliding drew the sidelong nces from numerous neers and the Destion Corps. They stared in that direction, transfixed. Their eyes were bloodshot, and their breathing became heavier.

    A demon''s bestial nature never fully subsided.

    Among these natures, like that of dogs, the sight of mating was particrly aggravating and agitating.

    In the Beast Path, this primal behavior was conspicuously disyed, whether by neers or the members of the Destion Corps. The sounds of flesh striking and heavy breathing only intensified their agitation.

    Some neers, caught off guard, were devoured whole by the Destion Corps.

    All the members of the Destion Corps seemed to lose their minds, continuously looking in that direction, their eyes smoldering with frustration.

    If not for one of the participants in this heated encounter being beyond their reach, these ferocious demonic soldiers would have already charged in.

    "Colonel, to think you fancy such a feeble, powerless fox, like a block of tofu, a tofu fox!"

    The Destion Corps soldiers couldn''tprehend or ept this.

    "It sounds like give and take; though the fox is small, it''s quite capable. The Colonel seems to be really enjoying herself..." one disheveled, red-haired old manmented.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 743: Colonels Adjutant!

    Chapter 743: Colonel''s Adjutant!

    "Shut up!"

    Even if the old man spoke the truth, the vicious demons found it hard to ept such a reality. How could it be that the most despised and effeminate fox had conquered the unassable, untouchable Colonel¡ªa goddess in their eyes?

    "Colonel''s muscles alone could crush this wimpy fox to death!"

    "You better be talking about her arms..."

    "Agh, enough already!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Irritable, direct, savage, crude, and hasty... these traits defined the beasts within the lower ranks of the Destion Corps. They bubbled and seethed like the cauldron below, roaring as if to spur on the two main actors in this spectacle.

    Who would have thought? The Colonel, notoriously indifferent to men, had dragged the soft fox right beside the Soul Refining Cauldron, ripped off his attire without a second word, and then pounced with a ferocity and wildness that rivaled her demonic beast form.

    Faced with such brute force, lesser men would crumble in fear. Not this fox. Under this overwhelming pressure, far from cowering, he reversed the Colonel''s advance. Since escape was impossible, he took the offensive! And from that moment, the Colonel''s ferocious roars softened to a woman''s whimpers.

    This formidable Colonel, so easily provoked into tender murmurs by a mere fox, shattered the pride of the beasts in the Destion Corps.And these two had been going at it for almost half a day already! Didn''t they get tired at all?

    Moon Fairy wished to, but the Divine Destion Physique was indeed formidable, allowing him to retain his dignity against this domineering woman.

    At first, he was hesitant. In human form, the Colonel was cold yet alluring, her curves breathtaking, the very epitome of feminine allure¡­ But she was still a bear...

    And while the Phoenix Empress might''ve been a bird, she represented a beautiful, desirable creature.

    A bear, however, was brutish and crude!

    But at that moment, the Colonel gave Moon Fairy no chance to resist. Pinned down as if by a mountain, he could not move a finger as she took what she wanted.

    Once victorious, Moon Fairy suddenly realized that life was like a certain something¡ªif resistance was futile, and the die was already cast, then one might as well enjoy it.

    With a shift in perspective, the Colonel instantly became a marvel to behold¡­ She had cultivated her physical body to match the might of the Divine Destion Physique, allowing Moon Fairy to revel in unrestrained pleasure, his heart alight with beastial desire.

    Apart from Thunder Emissary Cao, gifted with the allure of a seductress, few ordinary humans could match the wildness of female demons.

    Even if it was the feared Colonel of the Destion Corps, Moon Fairy had no trouble toppling her with ease!

    After a long time, the tumult finally subsided. Moon Fairyy nestled in the Colonel''s embrace, his expression slightly bewildered.

    "Who would have thought..." The Colonel, her cheeks flushed, gently pinched his fox ear and whispered, "In all aspects, you''re truly exceptional, little fox."

    "To serve you, Colonel, is my unshakable duty," Moon Fairy dered earnestly.

    "Heh¡­" The Colonel chuckled, then asked, "What is your name?"

    "Moon Fairy."

    "Oh?" The Colonel nodded in approval, remarking, "A fox true to name, a fairy of the moon indeed."

    Moon Fairyughed softly.

    Suddenly, the Colonel, grasping his ear earnestly, dered, "I''ve grown tired of those foul-smelling male demons; I prefer beautiful maidens, but they don''t quench my thirst. Your arrival hits the mark. From now on, do well."

    "I won''t disappoint you, Colonel," Moon Fairy vowed.

    His eagerness delighted the Colonel, whoughed heartily, drawing envious nces from other demons.

    "Rise." The Colonel lifted him by the nape of his neck like a kitten from her embrace, then donned her ck armored dress, restoring her valiant and dashing demeanor.

    However, her previously pale skin now blushed a bit, and her shapely, long legs trembled slightly, clearly having relished the encounter.

    "She''s a ck Brute Bear, transformed into human form. How can her skin be so white?!" the Nian grumbled, finally released by Moon Fairy, somewhat bewildered.

    "Idiot, it''s the fur that''s ck, not the skin," the Yaksha Ancestor contemptuously replied.

    The Nian paused, then understanding dawned upon seeing the Colonel''s ck hair.

    "What were you guys doing just now for you to be so flushed and out of breath? " the Yaksha Ancestor asked coldly.

    "Ahem, the Colonel was eager to learn; I was teaching her topose poetry," Moon Fairy replied calmly.

    "Wow, first time I''ve heard of poetry being taught that way." The Nian chuckled.

    Moon Fairy chose to press the two loudmouths back down.

    At that moment, the Colonel smiled at Moon Fairy and beckoned, "Come with me."

    "Yes, Colonel."

    In the perilous, brutal, andwless world of the Six Paths of Reincarnation, Yun Xiao was all too eager to cling to this powerful ally.

    Before he could even grasp what was happening, the Colonel had hoisted him onto her shoulder...

    "It''s just a body double. For the sake of my future, I''ll endure!" Moon Fairy gritted his teeth.

    The Colonel carried him to the Soul Refining Cauldron and, as she set him down,manded in a deep voice, "Gather!"

    Her call to assemble boomed with authority, its ear-splitting force sweeping over the crowd, instilling in Moon Fairy a profound sense of the matriarchal bear''s terror.

    Thousands from the Destion Corps, along with a select few demons who had passed the earlier test, gathered before the Colonel.

    Upon their arrival, the demons bowed to the Colonel. However, it was clear they could barely contain their impatience and seething rage, their eyes flickering with brutal fury upon glimpsing Moon Fairy.

    Yet, the Colonel paid no heed to their emotions. In full view of the demons, she patted Moon Fairy on the shoulder and announced, "His name is Moon Fairy. I''m provisionally rating him as a Tier 5 talent! His specific assessment will follow back at camp. But from on, he''s going to be my adjutant."

    "Yes!" The demons growled, their faces contorted, unable to hide their fury in such a world¡ªnor needing to.

    "The Colonel''s adjutant, huh?" Moon Fairy was unsure of the precise nature of the position, but it ced him above these savage troops.

    Having won over their untouchable goddess and risen above them, it was hard for these demons not to feel enraged.

    "Back to camp!"

    With this, the Colonel set Moon Fairy down and transformed into a ck Brute Bear, charging into the distance.

    Demon after demon returned to their true forms, following the massive ck Brute Bear, crashing into the mist as they ran.

    "Wow." Moon Fairy also transformed into a silver, six-tailed demon fox, sprinting at full speed with the Destion Corps.

    The crimson eyes around him seemed almost to devour him.

    "Adjutant, mind if I catch a ride?"

    Just then, an ancient crimson treended on top of Moon Fairy.

    "Who are you?" Moon Fairy looked up at the old tree above his head, somewhat speechless.

    Did this tree always catch a ride on people''s heads?

    "Just call me Old Kapok. I''m a kapok tree turned demon. In thisnd of eternal life, I''ve lived far too long, so long I''ve lost track of the years!" Old Kapok exined.

    "All yourrades seem eager to devour me. Is it a smart idea for you to be hanging so close to me?" Moon Fairy asked with a smile.

    Old Kapokughed heartily and replied, "I''ve lived enough; death means little to me, and that makes me carefree."

    The longer one lived, the more easily they could discern the truth!

    This friend, Moon Fairy decided, was a keeper.

    "Old Kapok, are we headed back to camp?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "Yes, indeed!"

    "And where is this camp?" Moon Fairy inquired further.

    "In the infamous Beastly Peaks!" Old Kapok chuckled.

    "Why such a name?" Moon Fairy asked, puzzled.

    "Because we''re in the Beast Path!" Old Kapokughed again.

    "Alright." Moon Fairy nodded and then asked, "Will my demon talent be tested once we arrive?"

    "If the Colonel said it''ll be tested, then it surely will be. Who knows, you might be a supreme talent," Old Kapok said.

    "Oh..." Moon Fairy took a deep breath. He was immensely looking forward to everything in the world of the Six Paths of Reincarnation.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, Yun Xiao was still observing the Taiji Double Fish Gate.

    Just then, anguid voice rang out behind him!

    "Yo, I''m back for round two."

    Yun Xiao turned around calmly. Behind him appeared a ck and gold lotus flower.

 Chapter 744: Is All Junk Food the Same?

    Chapter 744: Is All Junk Food the Same?

    It was Lu Fan, or rather the Chaos Emperor Lotus! He''d arrived even faster than Yun Xiao expected.

    When Yun Xiao turned around, the skies above the Taiwei Imperial Pce were filled with endless petals of ck and gold. Amid these petals, one could faintly discern shes of blood and flesh.

    Under Yun Xiao''s watchful eyes, these petals, blood, and flesh slowly converged together.

    Amidst the turmoil, a figure in a disheveled golden robe appeared, twisting into form. His flippant gaze, his unkempt beard, and the slight upturn of his lips were all signature traits of his.

    The moment his murky, mocking eyes collided with Yun Xiao''s clear, bright ones, the entire Heavenly Pce, now a ruin, fell into a profound silence.

    After the departure of Heavenly Monarch Mu, the ban on entering the Heavenly Pce had been lifted, and many Immortals had arrived to see what was going on. But now, they were all overwhelmed by the sh between Yun Xiao and Lu Fan, too intimidated even to breathe.

    One in the air, one on the ground, their gazes locked in a stormy standoff.

    Behind them, figures of women began to appear.

    On Yun Xiao''s side, there was only a captivating blood shadow, her body exquisitely powerful and perfect, crowned with two dragon horns thatmanded respect yet were intricately crafted. Of course, this was the War Princess. The other women, like Cao Shuo, Gu Suwan, and Yue Yin, were also stirred, though Yun Xiao kept them at bay.

    In contrast, behind Lu Fan stood a procession of celestial maidens, each proudly aloof and dignified, their faces marked with an air of invibility.

    It was one against hundreds! In the matter of a female backing, Yun Xiao indeed felt inferior.

    However, in terms of quality, apart from the Empress Zhao, who could somewhat hold her own, the rest were hardly worthy to even carry the War Princess¡¯ shoes.

    So, it was because of the War Princess that Lu Fan''s gaze shifted away from Yun Xiao.

    It was his first time seeing her!

    As his gaze swept over her form¡ªthe Mortal Dust Devil incarnate¡ªit traced from her ears to her lips, down her graceful neck, over peaks and into valleys... He seemed intent on engraving every detail into his eyes.

    When Lu Fan caught sight of the War Princess¡¯ ankle, he swallowed hard, nearly forgetting Yun Xiao in his awe.

    ¡°These divine peaks and the sacred cave, so perfect and yet still sealed, what a waste of heavenly beauty¡­¡± Lu Fan¡¯s throat grew hot, and he found himself at a loss for words to speak further to Yun Xiao, his head shaking in dismay.

    All these thoughts hidden in his heart were in to see for Yun Xiao. It was too obvious, and far too crude!

    Yun Xiao was surprised, his gaze piercing as he asked, "Lu Fan, you''re back? Impressive, for just a wandering soul from another world."

    The Chaos Soul was chilling and merciless. Though not averse to feminine charm, it was never this base.

    ¡°Huh, why are you so surprised?¡± Lu Fan frowned in irritation.

    He was the protagonist who had crossed over, destined to conquer!

    Turning his steely gaze back to Yun Xiao, thest boss, he spoke, "You should know that if it weren''t for that ambush and that Heavenly Monarch, I¡¯d y you as easily as a chicken." His tone was indifferent.

    "That was the Chaos Soul, your <em>System </em>or whatever, not you. Even then, I''m pretty sure I''m still 2-0 over you," Yun Xiao replied, just as calmly.

    ¡°Hah¡­¡± Lu Fanughed coldly. ¡°Then tell me, who''s speaking with you now? The System or me? Can''t you tell I''m the real master!¡±

    Yun Xiao smiled too, retorting, ¡°You popping back in again can only mean that the Chaos Soul is gravely wounded, leaving just enough time for a pathetic creature like you to struggle.¡±

    At these words, Lu Fan¡¯s strategizing facade momentarily crumpled.

    Yun Xiao''s words had struck a fatal blow to his core!

    However, Lu Fan quickly suppressed his inner turmoil,ughing again, ¡°In the game of thrones, the process doesn''t matter, only who holds the crown. The Ancestral Land intervening provided both you and me an opportunity. The fact remains that I overthrew the System and became King.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good news then; you''re a lot easier to deal with than the System,¡± Yun Xiaomented.

    Lu Fan grinned. ¡°You y the viin well, riling people up effortlessly. If my story were a novel, my readers would surely share in this outrage.¡±

    ¡°If they resonate with this, your readers¡¯ tastes must be as shallow and trashy as you,¡± Yun Xiao chuckled.

    ¡°Heh, then does that make you deep and sophisticated? Junk food is junk food. No need to differentiate!" Lu Fanughed again.

    Yun Xiao shook his head and chuckled. Then, he looked at Lu Fan again and asked, "So, what now?"

    Lu Fan nced at the celestial maidens behind him, all brimming with fury, and smiled, ¡°Well, let¡¯s not keep the audience waiting. Back when I was reading novels, the main characters who acted first and ughtered entire families were the most popr. We can¡¯t dally any longer; the audience might leave.¡±

    "A true schr, I see," Yun Xiao said.

    He wondered how a visitor from another world could be so selfish. In Lu Fan¡¯s worldview, there was no one but himself. He didn¡¯t even care about the incense offerings and magnified his sins by devouring the souls of all beings.

    It turned out Lu Fan was already twisted.

    "To read ten thousand tales is to travel far and free. My vision knows no bounds, as far as eyes can see. Crossing time and space with ease, I''ll ughter all as I please!"

    As Lu Fan spoke, his eyes locked onto Yun Xiao, seeing him as a peculiar opponent¡ªnot the strongestpared to the Heavenly Monarch, but certainly the strangest.

    "A heroic viin, incredible!" Lu Fan finally burst intoughter. And in that moment ofughter, he struck! Like a storm unleashed, he swung his hand toward Yun Xiao¡¯s face.

    This p was like their first meeting!

    Back then, Yun Xiao had impersonated Lu Yao, and Lu Fan had yed Lu Bufan, pretending to be father and son. At their first encounter, Lu Fan had pped Yun Xiao squarely, nearly taking his life!

    And now, with deliberate insult, he aimed to deliver the same p again...

    <em>BOOM! </em>In a sh, the p roared towards Yun Xiao¡¯s face!

    Before the palm reached him, the fierce shock wave stirred up a mighty storm, sting the remains of the pavilion on Yun Xiao¡¯s right into dust, whipping up a storm of debris.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Throughout, Yun Xiao did not move an inch. It seemed he would be shattered!

    However, unseen by all, a single strand of Yun Xiao¡¯s hair suddenly sprang up, surging with the power of the primordial void, forming a vortex in front of Lu Fan¡¯s palm.

    As the stormy palm struck, upon colliding with this strand of hair, it exploded with a thunderous vibration.

    <em>SPLATTER! </em>The moment Lu Fan''s palm swept past that strand of hair, a burst of blood sprayed forth. His hand was instantly shredded into a gory mess that sttered in the air without a single drop touching Yun Xiao.

    "What?" Lu Fan felt like he''d stuck his hand into a blender. His eyes widened as he staggered back, pain shooting through his arm.

    ncing down, he saw his palm cleanly severed at the wrist, as if sliced by the sharpest de in the world.

    The bone-deep agony confirmed the grim reality.

    Lu Fan''s heart raced as he looked up to see the young man in white, his robe billowing, hair flying, a deadly strand of hair gently falling, resting against his divine visage...

    It was impossibly cool! Even Lu Fan felt a twinge of envy for such a fa?ade. But he knew this was no time for envying appearances.

    "Just days ago, he used that coffin to desperately block my p. Now, without lifting a finger, he counters my strike with a single hair!"

    ustomed to ying the fool only to strike fiercely, Lu Fan felt a bizarre jolt in his heart.

    In his eyes, their previous encounters were not Yun Xiao''s strength, but that of the coffin!

    Yet this time, it was truly Yun Xiao shaking the heart of this transmigrator from another world...

    Such a scene deepened the silence over the Heavenly Pce. Even the faith of the celestial maidens behind Lu Fan was shaken, their faces grimacing slightly.

    "Heh." Yun Xiao looked at Lu Fan, whose hand was severed, and chuckled. "Your physical body waspletely destroyed. So, I was wondering where did this new onee from? Turns out, you''ve cobbled together a temporary shell from the remains of those people from the Ancestral Land. I understand wanting to experience the pleasures of the flesh again, but to be willing to even be half a corpse demon? Sadly, your skills are too shallow, and that shell of yours is as fragile as tofu."

    That was the real reason why Lu Fan''s p couldn¡¯t withstand a single hair!

    Suppressed and exposed, Lu Fan¡¯s expression turned colder, clearly stung by the revtion.

    "As an otherworldly spirit without a body, you must have felt quite desperate to cobble together a makeshift one from tofu. You probably even fooled yourself into thinking it''s a real body," Yun Xiao remarked, an eyebrow raised as he scrutinized the true nature of Lu Fan.

    He knew Lu Fan''s past life was marked by failure, timidity, delusions, and an inferiorityplex. He could only envision himselfmanding armies and amassing concubines in a fantasy world¡­

    However, Lu Fan was lucky enough to be chosen by the Chaos Soul, which allowed him to freely pursue his darkest desires. He became hedonism incarnate, exploiting his newfound talents to propel him to where he was today.

    Yet, deep down, he was still that small and cowardly kid. The personality formed in childhood was hard to change.

    Just as a poor man who came into wealth might splurge, Lu Fan could hardly hide the chips on his shoulder.

    Why did Lu Fan delight in stealing others'' women? Because the ones he coveted in his original world had always been taken from him. The more hecked, the more vengefully he plundered!

    And Yun Xiao aimed to target just that¡ªLu Fan''s true nature! That small, insecure, timid spirit, unassimted, yet ruling supreme in his fantasies!

    Every word Yun Xiao spoke was a hook tugging at Lu Fan''s nature, stripping away his pretense to reveal the desperate scramble beneath.

    Lu Fan remained trapped in his pride as a chosen one of the heavenly path! Yet, his rage had peaked!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Even with this temporary body, I will crush you!" Lu Fan dered, his voice thick with fury as he regenerated his severed hand with a flourish.

    He was steadied again, his malicious intent even stronger!

    However, none of this surprised Yun Xiao. He chuckled lightly and turned to the War Princess, saying, "Here¡¯s your chance to shine."

    "Me?" The War Princess blinked, taken aback.

    "Be confident," Yun Xiao encouraged.

    "Okay!" With those words, her blood surged, her skin flushed like a ripe peach, all the more enticing.

    "Hoh?" Lu Fan caught Yun Xiao''s words. He felt no insult, only amusement. He wasughing. "Ah, these dumbass viins are all the same. You''ll regret it for not finishing me off instantly, when you had the chance¡­"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 745: Different Lu Fans!

    Yun Xiao spoke, his voice echoing a casual challenge, "Lu Fan, this is my humble servant. If you can defeat her, I''ll gift her to you."

    "Is that really appropriate?" Lu Fan managed, stifling augh.

    "The real question is, can you handle it?" Yun Xiao countered.

    Facing Yun Xiao''s familiar gaze of unshakable confidence, Lu Fan silently retorted in his mind, "All men who doubted me have turned cuckold green, and the women, they¡¯ve cried out in despair."

    He would not refuse such a divinely sent beauty.

    The War Princess, with her confident, cold, and proud eyes, almost made himugh. He knew that look all too well¡ªfrom the Crown Princess to the Empress Zhao, from Lady Fortune to the Sun Sword Goddess¡ªeach one began with such lofty stature, their noses scraping the skies.

    But what was the oue?

    With a crack of his joints, Lu Fan''s deep gaze fixed upon the War Princess.

    Though the War Princess doubted herself, she held boundless faith in Yun Xiao. Anything arranged by him spurred her fighting spirit to soar.After striving so hardtely, it was time to test her mettle!

    With a swoosh, she lunged forward, her allure cutting across the air, her every inch radiating an enchanting charm.

    The Mortal Dust Devil transformed her into the most tempting woman in the world!

    Up close, Lu Fan swallowed hard, his blood racing. In his eyes, this devilish woman eclipsed the dignified Empress Zhao by leagues.

    "She''s truly exquisite!" His gaze grew even more intense.

    This tant fervor ignited a fire of rage within the War Princess.

    "Where does this toad think he¡¯s leaping from?" With just those words, sheunched a furious attack at Lu Fan.

    Having ascended to the Dawn God Realm, her body surged with the Mortal Dust Devil Blood and the strength of the Yin Devil, her dual divine might making her nearly wless in battle¡ªequally formidable at range and up close.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Her blood surged like a tornado, twisting into a crimson storm. In one hand, the Sanguine Phantom war cleaver, and in the other, fingers entwined with a bloody celestial dragon. The devilish miasma of the Mortal Dust Devil swirled, obscuring the skies above the Heavenly Pce with a blood-red veil.

    In aura alone, the War Princess already far surpassed the White Emperor.

    "Spicy!" Lu Fan dered with a devilish grin, his eyes suddenly swirling into golden ck vortexes, ensnaring souls.

    "I¡¯ve hacked that dog <em>System</em> with a memory card. So what if I didn''t conquer Divine Dawn! I still managed to learn the Karmic Spirit Ordinance!"

    As the War Princess charged at him, Lu Fan stood with his hands behind his back, unmoving, a smirk on his face, the epitome of nonchnce.

    "Disgusting!" The War Princess could only think how revolting this greasy man was. If not for these soul-washing tricks, how many women would truly be mad about him?

    Her rage was kindled, and the power of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood erupted.

    "Nightshade Blood Dragon!"

    Her left hand flicked, casting out a shadow of a blood dragon that infused the earth, transforming the ground into a vast sea of blood. From this bloody ocean, strands of blood-red vines shot out!

    On closer inspection, these vines were covered with blood-red dragon scales, adorned with many dragon teeth and ws, a hybrid of a blood dragon and vines.

    With the divine might of a blood dragon and the persistent, unkible nature of the vines, the Nightshade Blood Dragon was even stronger than her previous blood arts!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Countless Nightshade Blood Dragons, rising from the bloody sea, obscured the heavens and earth as they surged towards Lu Fan!

    "You have some skills, but sending a woman to attack me is like throwing meat buns at a... Bah!" Lu Fan''s wicked smile deepened, the vortex in his eyes growing, slowly forming a soul vortex!

    <em>Karmic Spirit Ordinance!</em>

    Notes of music flowed from his eyes, magnified by the vortex, and struck directly at the War Princess.

    "Darling, forget the sword fight. How about a battle of pistons instead?" Lu Fan''s voice morphed into the Karmic Spirit Ordinance, the sounds vibrating against the War Princess'' spirit.

    He was confident he could make the War Princess kneel before him! In this regard, he never failed!

    However, this time seemed different.

    The War Princess'' spirit was partly Yun Xiao¡¯s Mortal Dust Devil Spirit. So, Lu Fan''s attempt at <em>wooing</em> her looked like a monkey defecating.

    "Piston your own asshole!!" Furious beyond endurance, the War Princessunched a ferocious double attack!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The vast sea of blood formed a prison, trapping Lu Fan within. Nightshade Blood Dragons, like barbed chains, pierced into his flesh and bone, instantly wrapping around him a hundredfold, binding himpletely, organs and all.

    "Karmic Spirit Ordinance!" Lu Fan eximed again, desperately resisting.

    "Ordinate your granddad!" The War Princess, wielding the Sanguine Phantom, charged forward. The massive war cleaver in her hands transformed into streams of blood-red rivers, shing explosively in a flurry!

    <em>SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! </em>Lu Fan, already locked in ce, was then violently sliced, starting from his scalp, as chunks of his flesh flew off!

    As the pieces flew, his flesh corroded and his blood was refined by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    "Get it? This is called human scum slicing!" The War Princess unleashed a fierce assault, slicing Lu Fan into hundreds of pieces that flew about, her de work sharp enough to qualify her as a top chef.

    She reveled in the ughter!

    From astonishment to screams of pain, Lu Fan¡¯s true nature was thoroughly excavated during the ordeal.

    Being chopped alive was the most frightening moment of his life, the slow process affording him ample time for mental torture.

    "Lu Fan!" Suddenly, Yun Xiao appeared before him, wrapping his arm around the War Princess''s waist, nting a kiss on her cheek, then smiling mischievously at the sliced man, "Such a fiery beauty presented to you, and yet you¡¯re going all limp?"

    "YOU! FU¡ª!"

    As his body blended into blood and gore, Lu Fan''s spirit let out a hysterical roar. No matter how much he yelled, he was without a physical body. And makeshift solutions were no good either!

    "Keep slicing, but add more sex appeal!" Yun Xiao directed the War Princess.

    "And how <em>exactly</em> do I do that?" The War Princess rolled her eyes.

    "Lift your head, puff your chest, tuck your stomach, lift your butt," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Ugh, pervert¡­"

    Watching the two flirting in front of him, Lu Fan was about to lose his mind!

    Surprisingly, the War Princessplied.

    Throughout the process, Lu Fan alternated between furious cursing and slow, agonized wailing. He seemed to cherish this body dearly, as reanimating it wasn''t easy, and training anew was even harder... But now, Yun Xiao and the War Princess shattered his dreams once again!

    "No! No! Don''t..." Lu Fan had longed to continue exploring more celestial caverns with his makeshift body, to continue living joyously. He couldn''t endure another 20 years of hiding and building back his power. Yet, here were these two, destroying him at his most confident.

    Amid his screams and struggles, Lu Fan''s true nature was drawn out; facing the harsh realities of the world, he escaped, bowed his head, and fantasized¡­ Until atst, his flesh burned away, his blood vanished.

    "Gone, all gone!"

    Before Yun Xiao and the War Princess, all that remained was a ck and gold lotus.

    Lu Fan no longer had a physical body! If he wished to explore celestial caverns again, it would only be by spirit¡­ For him, life had lost ny percent of its pleasure. He wailed out in despair.

    But at this moment, Yun Xiao and the War Princess'' expressions grew even graver.

    Before them was a gigantic lotus spirit, its size dwarfing both the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit and the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit!

    On a spiritual level, this spirit''s oppressive force was immense!

    It had ovee and driven back those from the Ancestral Land, including Heavenly Monarch Mu!

    It should have crushed Yun Xiao! But now, though massive, it was clearly tattered, its petals and core riddled with holes and cracks. It was a withered flower, ny-five percent diminished!

    It trembled in the wind, drifting, its soul force dissipating...

    This was the true face of the Chaos Emperor Lotus at this moment, the earlier physical form merely a frivolous veil of modesty.

    Yun Xiao had used the veil that Lu Fan so desired to provoke his true nature!

    Now, as Lu Fan''s spirit was forced out, it was seen struggling with its temperament, more twisted and shattered than ever!

    This proved Yun Xiao''s tactic was effective!

    His battle with Lu Fan was inevitably leading to this ultimate battle of the spirits, the most crucial step...

    "Rebirth! I must not die, the fate of my n hangs in the bnce...

    "Mom! Mom! I miss you, save me, save me!

    "Just you, Empress Zhao? Bend over, haha! Crown Princess,e over and give it a blow!"

    The shattered Chaos Emperor Lotus howled miserably in the wind. Such chaos showcased all that was copsing within it. Nobility, insecurity, arrogance... Various divine and human aspects twisted together, creating tears that hastened the disintegration of the Chaos Emperor Lotus.

    "Yun... Yun Xiao..."

    Just then, the Chaos Emperor Lotus fixated on the young man in white before it.

    Within the Chaos Emperor Lotus existed three aspects of Lu Fan, the insecure wandering soul from another world, the arrogant Chaos Sovereign, and the Chaos Soul! In their eyes, Yun Xiao appeared to represent the same thing¡ªand that was karma!

    Though, it appeared the Chaos Sovereign and Chaos Soul still held the upper hand.

    "Die! With your death, everything will be fine!" it snarled.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "What should we do?" the War Princess asked nervously.

    "Step back. This battle can only be fought by my Buddha''s Treasure Spirit," Yun Xiao said.

    In the Celestial Court, the Third Dao Tribtion began with the spirit, and ultimately, it had to end with the spirit...

 Chapter 746: Destined Battle!

    At the pinnacle of the Great Dao Celestial Realm''s history, there stood two Anima Immortals¡ªLu Fan and Yun Xiao.

    The difference was that Lu Fan, at this moment, was no longer purely himself with his different egos vying for control, and he only retained his spirit!

    Yun Xiao, on the other hand, was of pure mind and his methods transcended the simple title of Anima Immortal.

    The two werepletely opposite!

    When Yun Xiao told the War Princess to step back and tag out, even if she was full of faith in him, she couldn''t help but tense up.

    "You have to win! Cause if you die, I''m doomed too!" the War Princess said, worry filling her eyes.

    "You know, it''d sound more sincere without the second part," Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    "Ugh, whatever! Just don''t die!" she huffed, ring at him before obediently stepping back to a safe distance. She dared not stray too far.

    Meanwhile, fearless Immortals gathered around the Heavenly Pce, shouting support for Yun Xiao. Unaware that Divine Dawn had departed from this world, they saw only him holding the fort..."To vanquish Lu Fan, to forge a new celestial order, to renew the myriad paths, to revive the Great Dao Celestial Realm!"

    This chant carried their brightest hopes for the future. And truly, they did manage to inspire Yun Xiao.

    In his world, aside from the fervent desire in this chant, there was only the ck and gold spirit lotus facing him.

    And in its gaze, only he existed.

    Yun Xiao stood silent, calm, and solemn.

    The battered lotus struggled, twisted, and screamed in savage madness.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "A mere reincarnator, a half-baked Anima Immortal, dares to obstruct my path?" The voice was ancient and majestic, resonant with the weight of eons.

    "Lu Fan, I am your father!" another voice rang out, arrogant and mocking, as if pulling the strings behind the scenes.

    "A soft-hearted, heroic viin? In another story, you wouldn''tst three sentences..." Finally, there was a third voice. It was weak and impotent, with a hint of confidence but as frail as paper.

    Hearing these chaotic utterances from the lotus, Yun Xiao''s eyes shed coldly, focusing solely on the lotus, as if he had not heard the first two statements, responding only to the third, "What exactly is your standard for a hero?"

    "A weakling like you feelspelled to save the other weaklings, doesn''t that make you a hero? Haha! In times of chaos, kill the hero¡ªthey''re talking about you!" the lotus retorted in a youthful voice, its tone desperate and hysterical.

    "I''ve killed many, I act as I please. Just because my view on the incense offerings differs from yours, I''m some soft-hearted hero?" Yun Xiao stood radiant, his voice booming like thunder.

    "Incense offerings! Incense offering¡­ why the hell do you care about something stupid like that? Don''t you know what thrill the readers seek? To extinguish realms with a flick, to cover the heavens with a hand¡ªthis is the thrill! In a story, lives are just fleeting extras, tools for face-pping and satisfaction¡­"

    The Chaos Emperor Lotus babbled on, its voice urgent and impatient, drowning out the others.

    "Are other lives merely extras in your story?"

    Above Yun Xiao, the tinum Creator Immortal Spirit manifested, appearing fragile before the towering Chaos Emperor Lotus.

    <em>BUZZ!</em> The spirit split into countless illusions, faces of Buddha''s Treasures materializing across heaven and earth, a sea of faces surging forward.

    "These faces, victims of the incense offerings, liberated from the Great Mother by me¡ªtheir faces and their lives areid out before you. What are they, then? Really, just extras?" Yun Xiao challenged.

    "You''ve killed plenty too! You''re no saint!" the lotus shrieked back.

    "True, I am both a hero and viin," Yun Xiao admitted with a smile.

    "And what gives you the right to judge me?" the lotus retorted angrily.

    "I''m not here to judge. It''s you who''s constantlybeling me a hero and invoking morality into this,''" Yun Xiao replied, withdrawing the illusions of the Buddha''s Treasures. His Creator Immortal spirit''s gaze intensified as it focused on the shattered lotus. "Our conflict is a sh of paths, not a battle to the death. I care not for the moral codes you''ve adopted; here, they''re meaningless. You''ve always been nothing but a failure, and now, I merely wish to crush you."

    "You!" The petals of the lotus trembled violently, twisting even more grotesquely.

    "Lord, destroy him!"

    Over 300 celestial maidens of the Celestial Court, including Empress Zhao, shouted in unison, seeing the internal struggle of the lotus.

    "Hehe¡­" The lotusughed mockingly, itsughter growing more arrogant.

    "Just because of them, you think you''re worthy?"

    Indeed, even the revered Zhao Shi, Empress Dowager of the Heavens, knelt before the lotus¡ªsuch a spectacle was unimaginable to the former Lu Fan. In this life, he was the unrivaled Chaos Sovereign!

    Yun Xiao nced at the ensnared celestial women, his expression nk. With a flick of his hand, a sh of azure light streaked forth!

    "My lord¡­"

    Before Empress Zhao could finish, the azure light entered her mouth and shot through her throat, exiting the back of her head!

    The Flying Sword was so swift that not a drop of blood followed.

    "AGH!" Empress Zhao''s face contorted in agony, her eyes dimming, her expression one of utter despair as tears streamed down her face.

    With a snap, her body sprawled out on the ground, limbs flung wide in every direction!

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! </em>The Flying Sword darted like a flying fish, drawing a streak of azure light, piercing hundreds of times in an instant, unstoppable!

    All the celestial maidens brought by Lu Fan, at that moment, their heads were pierced, eyes bulging, and they died miserably on the spot¡ªa mass ughter!

    The Chaos Emperor Lotus,cking a fleshly body, found it impossible to block this sword and could only watch helplessly as they all perished.

    "Lu Fan, your confidence and their lives are equally fragile."

    Yun Xiao¡¯s words pierced the Chaos Emperor Lotus just as the Flying Sword did, causing the spirit petals to tremble and wither away, then emit a twitching, agonizing scream.

    "The saga of the incense offerings is already over. You guys were the only stragglers left behind."

    Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit shimmered with golden light in the air, forcibly drawing in the spirits of Empress Zhao, and others.

    These spirits, like moths to a me, rushed towards the <em>light</em>.

    "No, no, no!"

    The lotus screamed hysterically, trying to block these spirits, but he abruptly realized that the spirits of these beautiful celestial maidens no longer bore the imprint of his lotus!

    In their final moments, they understood everything. They had been controlled, betrayed the Crown Prince, and destroyed the imperial family themselves!

    For them, this was a cruel reality, the greatest sorrow.

    Empress Zhao¡¯s spirit, let out a heart-wrenching cry.

    "Kill him! Kill Lu Fan!"

    In the end, with a pleading look, she funneled all her resentment into these words, beseeching Yun Xiao.

    To Yun Xiao, there wasn¡¯t much to say to them. There were far more pitiful people in the world, truly deserving of sympathy. He, like a source of light, absorbed their Buddha''s Treasures, his own spirit growing stronger and more radiant!

    Though physically much smaller than the lotus, in purity of the dao andposure of will, he far surpassed his opponent.

    "Lu Fan!" After liberating the spirits of the women, Yun Xiao suddenlyughed. "This fact proves you were never the protagonist of this world. In all those stories you¡¯ve seen, have you ever seen the protagonist''s women ughtered so wantonly?"

    Empress Zhao¡¯s final plea, had already plunged the lotus into deep agony, and Yun Xiao¡¯s words now shook its very core, truly breaking the wandering soul¡¯s defenses!

    The ultimate effect of this shattering revtion was to dramatically magnify the true nature of the wandering soul from another world, causing him to unleash his emotions in a cataclysmic outburst, overpowering the Chaos Soul.

    "Also, I''d wager in the books you''ve read, even if the hero looks quite ordinary, goddesses from all corners fall over themselves to love him to death. Yet here you are, with hundreds of beauties wishing for your demise. How does that happen?" Yun Xiaoughed.

    Hisughter swept over the lotus like a storm of 10,000 swords.

    "Shut up! Shut up! Ahhh!" The lotus screamed miserably, its voice spasming as every word from Yun Xiao demolished everything it had built over the past 20 years. The confidence of the Chaos Sovereign crumbled, pulling the true nature of the wandering soul into the harsh light!

    What seemed a mere exchange of insults was in fact a profoundpetition of principles. Yun Xiao had seized his adversary''s weak spot; his few words wielded more destructive power than a soul storm.

    For an Anima Immortal, steadfast and stable mental will was crucial.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Lu Fan, having built his confidence on the adtion of his celestial maidens, now faced a severe bacsh.

    With each thunderous explosion, several already battered petals shattered into fragments amidst his screams, scattering across the skies¡ªnearly a quarter gone!

    And the loss was almost entirely that of the Chaos Sovereign, the arrogant part of Lu Fan!

    From this moment, it could be said that the Chaos Sovereign truly died!

    The true nature of the<em> System</em> shattered Lu Fan''s first wall of confidence built over the 20 plus years. And the deaths of Empress Zhao, and the other women obliterated his second wall of confidence.

    With twoyers of confidence destroyed and Lu Fan''s true nature exposed, it was clear how utterly false this once formidable overlord really was!

    And within those screaming petals, insecurity and timidity turned to poison, spreading over the Chaos Soul, seizing thest vestiges of its sanity.

    "Enough!!"

    In this dire moment, the lotus erupted in a thunderous roar of rage.

    From the Chaos Soul, a soul storm swept across the entire Heavenly Pce, darkening the skies and overwhelming everything in its path.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 747: Mom, Im Sorry

    Chapter 747: Mom, I''m Sorry

    Even with a quarter of the Chaos Emperor Lotus destroyed, when its power was fully unleashed, this sea of souls could still drown everything, leaving one breathless.

    Yun Xiao stood like a lone skiff amidst a tempest.

    He lifted his head to behold the lotus again, which now seemed split in twain¡ªone half ancient and profound, seething with rage and defiance, the other sunk in despair, wailing pitifully for its mother...

    "Home! I want to go home!" that half of the lotus cried.

    "Silence, you useless bastard! When I return to the Land of Destiny, to protect my n and reim the Eternal Imperial Throne, you can go home anytime!" the other half thundered.

    "No! You''re lying, you''ve been lying to me from the start..."

    Fear, panic, cowardice, sorrow¡ªonce a man lost his fighting spirit, negative emotions engulfed him like the sea, shattering all illusions. Lu Fan curled up in a corner, his face ashen.

    "Don''t drag me down!" the Chaos Soul fumed, nearly exploding in anger.

    "Shame you took that kind of approach with him. Even if he is a useless bastard, he''s still your other half," Yun Xiao paused. "You know well why you chose a soul from another world¡ªbecause he was weak, easily deceived, lost in fantasies, easy to control. And now his emotional poison has rotted yourst remaining half. That is your retribution.""Who are you?!" the Chaos Soul snarled ferociously.

    By this moment, even he had lost his reason. It couldn''t be helped; he was burdened with a drowning Lu Fan, whose weight was akin to his own, constantly dragging him deeper into the sea. One could only imagine hisbat prowess under such circumstances!

    The Chaos Soul hadn''t anticipated that the mental breakdown of his other half would leave him so grievously wounded.

    "Who I am matters not, but your path to rebirth won''t get past me," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Ridiculous! sphemy! I''m the Chaos Divinity from the Self Liberation Realm, a supreme Anima Immortal! My divine form spans 180,000 miles; you, a mere half-baked reincarnator from a lesser world, are less than a hair on my body!"

    As the Chaos Soul bellowed those words, Yun Xiao knew that even he had been poisoned by Lu Fan; his once supreme divine might now turned to madness.

    "Wow, how <em>scary</em>. So, howe you''re in such a sorry state now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Scum!!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Never had the Chaos Soul imagined, at such a lofty height and after a meticulous rebirth, he would be tormented to this extent by an inexplicable reincarnator.

    "Get lost! Get lost!"

    He tried to kick Lu Fan off his back, but Lu Fan clung like an octopus. A wandering soul from another world and a Chaos Soul, now like twins conjoined by flesh and blood, how could they be so easily separated?

    This tattered lotus, riddled with holes, continued to self-destruct and crumble in this struggle, cries of rage and sobbing mixed together.

    "My n! I cannot die..." The Chaos Soul clung to thest vestige of his conviction, gritting his teeth against the poison of Lu Fan. The lotus surged with a final brilliance, dragging the drowning Lu Fan to face Yun Xiao.

    "You lowly, venomous bastard¡­! After I kill you, my path to rebirth will be a radiant path to immortality!"

    With that roar, the Chaos Emperor Lotus directed all its fury and intellect at Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit.

    The Chaos Soul screamed! Had it not been for the Divine Imperial Son, Heavenly Monarch Mu, and others, he wouldn''t have been reduced to such a state. He was too angry, too frustrated!

    "Die!" The broken Chaos Emperor Lotus, dragging the poison of Lu Fan, began to spin violently in the air.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>An endless soul storm erupted, plunging the entire Heavenly Pce into a berserk sea of souls, forcing the onlookers to retreat again and again, their faces pale with fear.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In its spinning, the Chaos Emperor Lotus transformed into a golden-ck celestial soul grinding wheel, creating a violent soul cyclone, locking onto Yun Xiao!

    An Anima Immortal''s killing blow was instantaneous!

    "I''ll kill you! I''ll kill you and restore my n!"

    In the eyes of the Chaos Soul, Yun Xiao was no longer Yun Xiao, but the opponent who once made him suffer defeat. It was as though he had returned to the moment of his death, his chest filled with boundless resentment.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The golden-ck grinding wheel thundered down, descending over Yun Xiao¡¯s head.

    A starving camel was still bigger than a horse!

    A centipede could be cut but never died!

    Even after the brutal assault by Heavenly Monarch Mu, the <em>death</em> of the Chaos Sovereign, and the poison of Lu Fan''s mental breakdown, this dying blow by the Chaos Soul still terrified the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    Undoubtedly, the threat he posed to Yun Xiao was far greater than that of Ye Xingchen or Ling Chen!

    <em>THUMP! THUMP! THUMP! </em>It seemed as though the hearts of all those in the Great Dao Celestial Realm raced for Yun Xiao.

    In the midst of the storm, Yun Xiao stood his ground, with the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit hovering above his head.

    At his opponent''s most ferocious moment, he was calmer than ever before.

    The Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, embodying tranquility and peace, unmovable as a mountain, regarded the mundane world indifferently, returning to the source, bringing all to silence.

    "The Great Dao Celestial Realm, the cmity of the incense offerings¡­ With Ancestor ya as the beginning, all things will end with the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit."

    Within the Creator Immortal spirit were countless faces, most of whom, because of the incense offerings, were ultimately liberated by Yun Xiao.

    Their Buddha''s Treasures became the content of Yun Xiao''s spirit.

    In the game of incense offerings, Lu Fan and the Chaos Soul were anomalies. The Chaos Sovereign had no part in this game initially. Yet, greed and selfishness made him, in the end, inherit all the sins of the incense offerings from the imperial family onto himself.

    After this misstep, there was no turning back.

    "You all created this; it''s only fitting you end it." The Buddha''s Treasure Spirit closed its eyes.

    Within him, each Buddha''s Treasure appeared, starting with Empress Zhao, these treasures transformed into golden beads, expelled from the mouth of the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>These golden beads formed a stream of gold.

    This stream was nowhere near as violent as the lotus grinding wheel, but it was serene and peaceful, epassing countless stories, ultimately forming regret and liberation.

    "Each has their destiny, return to the source of all things."

    Yun Xiao poured out all the Buddha''s Treasures he had liberated in the Heavenly Pce, and millions of golden streams were born, ultimately surpassing the weakened Chaos Soul''s desperate attack¡­

    As this brilliant, pure, vast stream of golden thought appeared before them, the lotus grinding wheel let out a pitiful scream, "I told you, we''re all failures!"

    This was the voice of Lu Fan! He had epted that he was a useless piece of trash, a sucker, a delusional coward, a loser in life, and he had adapted.

    "Shut up!!" The Chaos Soul unleashed his loudest roar, and as Lu Fan shattered the lotus, he gathered all his conviction, shing with Yun Xiao''s attack exploding together.

    "For the life and death of my n, I must go back! I must return... Ahh¡­!"

    When the Chaos Soul collided with the golden stream, for the first time, his voice of rage carried a hint of sobbing.

    It was because that golden stream was altogether different; it carried with it a power of emotional release and regret, which was a fatal strike for the emotionally shattered Chaos Soul and Lu Fan!

    The golden stream was Empress Zhao, the Heaven-Reaching Constetion, the Martial Peak Constetion, the Nine Arcanes Constetion, all the Sovereigns, and numerous imperial family members and high-ranking celestial officials...

    With thest of their Buddha''s Treasures, they struck the lotus!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The lotus grinding wheel, as if struck by lightning, began to disintegratepletely.

    "Why? Why...!" The Chaos Soul cried out in sorrow, "How can you block my path, why..."

    He couldn''t understand, and even at this moment, he didn''t think there was anything wrong with his path.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t consider himself much better. Amidst this destruction, he calmly said, "When paths do not align, they cannot n together. Since two crickets have entered the ring and must battle to the death, I''m sorry, but you must die first."

    "Who are you really?" the Chaos Soul asked in his final moments, concentrating all his desire into this question.

    He hoped to hear that he had been defeated by someone stronger; maybe then, he could ept his fate.

    Regrettably, Yun Xiao replied, "Just a nameless nobody from the lowest rung, not sure how much further I can go, but killing you first prolongs my life."

    "Ah..." The Chaos Soul dimmed in confusion. "My n..."

    These words were like a light from the heavens. He reached out his <em>hand</em> trying to grasp it, but he kept falling into the abyss.

    The Lu Fan he had chosen, till death, continued to drag him down!

    "What''s your n called? Where is it?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    The Chaos Soul trembled, his endless obsession suddenly became peaceful, and with hisst bit of strength, he said with a trembling voice, "Reborn Lotus... the Self Liberation Realm... my daughter is beautiful..."

    With his final words, he vanishedpletely.

    "Mom, I''m sorry..." The Chaos Soul uttered onest confused murmur and dissipated in the wind.

    Atst, all the fragments coalesced into a small golden-ck lotus, which fell into Yun Xiao¡¯s hand.

 Chapter 748: Senior Sister! Senior Sister!

    Chapter 748: Senior Sister! Senior Sister!

    It was over. A silence filled the air, and only the pure, ck and gold lotus in Yun Xiao''s hands spun and blossomed, a testament that time had not halted.

    Everything that belonged to the Chaos Soul, Chaos Sovereign, and the wandering soul Lu Fan had utterly vanished atop the Great Dao Celestial Realm, leaving no trace behind.

    Even the Buddha''s Treasures of the imperial family and top celestial officials had disappeared into the sky.

    The Heavenly Pce, once resplendent and thriving,y in ruins and destion¡ªa stark contrast to its former splendor, now looking all too bleak...

    Yet, reality often showed that when the elite reveled in luxury, the ground was littered with bones. Today, as the glory of the Celestial Court was utterly destroyed, the mortal realm weed relief and rebirth.

    One by one, the fearless ordinary Immortals ascended the deste Heavenly Pce. They watched the youth in white, fluttering in the wind, his eyes carrying a stormy sea.

    Everyone breathed deeply.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    There was no cheering, no excitement, no blood boiling.

    Only after everything had ended, they felt a rebirth, a true release of breath in exhaustion.Many sat down slowly on the ground, faces pale, easing the tension and suffocation within... showing just how worried and afraid they had been.

    Lu Fan and Yun Xiao, one mad, the other calm.

    Anyone in their right mind could see, if madness prevailed, the disaster it would bring to this world.

    For the Chaos Soul, there was nothing more urgent than saving his n. Having nurtured Lu Fan for over 20 years in hiding, he could wait no longer!

    His people or these fleeting souls¡­ who was more important? For him, it was not even a question.

    Yun Xiao''s victory meant that the Great Dao Celestial Realm and mortal realm survived!

    All Immortals and mortals, regardless of their trials, were survivors of a great cmity!

    They would need a long time to truly absorb the oue and calm their hearts.

    This included Gu Suwan, Yue Yin, and Cao Shuo. Tears of joy did not suffice to describe their emotions. They watched from afar, eyes trembling, breathless for a long time...

    It seemed the whole world was calm, except perhaps the War Princess.

    She was tense, but her faith in Yun Xiao was the strongest. Even though she would never admit it, she had be the top fan of the Creator Immortal. She was a year older than him, of course.

    "This guy, when he''s handsome, he''s breathtakingly so."

    Though a devil herself, and taller than Yun Xiao, no one could surpass this young man''s charm and allure in her eyes.

    The War Princess too breathed a deep sigh of relief.

    All was well now! The Great Dao Celestial Realm weed a new dawn.

    "Hahaha..."

    Finally, someone burst into heartyughter. Unsurprisingly, it was Cao Shuo, a being not a devil but more enchanting than any¡ªa delinquent gal with a heart of gold!

    Now, after her dual cultivation with Yun Xiao, she grew even more captivating and elegant. The Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace elevated her aura, elevating her to the seductress of the Celestial Court.

    Her maternal allure differedpletely from the War Princess'' youthful charm.

    Her joyfulughter spurred the surrounding Immortals, their faces glowing, holding their sides withughter.

    The joy of surviving the ordeal was written on everyone''s faces!

    "The White Emperor, the Crown Prince, Empress Zhao, the imperial family, the top celestial officials, and Lu Fan... are all dead!"

    "The evildoers, all gone!"

    "Lu Yao, Divine Dawn..."

    To the ordinary immortals, that god-like youth in white was still Sky Soaring City''s Lu Yao!

    His legend would be sung in the Great Dao Celestial Realm for a very long time...

    Even Yun Xiao was caught up in the mood, somewhat moved.

    On his path of growth, the pressure and impact from the duo of Lu Fan and the White Emperor were even more formidable than the Three Immortals at that time.

    Yun Xiao also gained many insights into the dao!

    After this battle, his Worldly Dao Heart grew stronger, his conviction firmer, and his spirit even more unbreakable. He felt a broad-minded magnificence!

    "Bro!"

    As Yun Xiao was immersed in this grand moment, a sharp cry suddenly rang in his ears.

    "What''s up?" Yun Xiao snapped out of it, turning to look at the little ck beast with faces on both its head and chest.

    "What are you dazing out for? This is the purest Chaos Emperor Lotus left by the Chaos Soul after his death, perfect for reinforcing the Genesis Spirit. It''s even more advanced than the Cosmic Pagoda or Divine Cosmic Sword. If you''re nning to give it to Big Lanterns Zhao, you better hurry. In less than a day, thosenterns... Ah, no! I mean the Chaos Emperor Lotus will disappear!" Blue Star said, almost tripping over his tongue.

    ¡°One day?¡± Zhao Xuanran was still navigating the First Dao Tribtion, while the birth of the Genesis Spirit belonged to the Second Dao Tribtion, and its emergence required reaching the Third Dao Tribtion.

    ¡°Is it possible to achieve the Third Dao Tribtion in one day?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°It depends on the resources you currently hold,¡± Blue Star said.

    ¡°There are plenty of good things left by the Divine Imperial Son,¡± Yun Xiao noted.

    To someone facing the First Dao Tribtion, the level of the Divine Imperial Son was exceedingly lofty.

    With that thought, Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze firmed, and he dered, ¡°Then, let¡¯s try it.¡±

    He summoned Gu Suwan¡¯s Azure Rain Sword Vessel. Without a word to them, he took to the skies, taking the small Chaos Emperor Lotus and dashed out of the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    ¡°What¡¯s he in such a rush for?¡± Cao Shuo stepped forward, asking respectfully.

    The War Princess bit her lip and said, ¡°Nine times out of ten, he¡¯s gone to find his first love.¡±

    Cao Shuo fell silent. ¡°Isn¡¯t Divine Dawn his first love?¡±

    ¡°That guy clings to the past; his first love holds the highest ce in his heart,¡± the War Princess exined.

    Cao Shuo nodded in understanding, then with a hint of amusement in her eyes, she whispered, ¡°May I ask, besides you, his first love, and the Seventh Princess, is there¡­¡±

    ¡°Stop!¡± the War Princess quickly interrupted, stressing, ¡°Don¡¯t include me in there; I''m not one of them.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­?¡± Cao Shuo smirked ambiguously.

    Did she really not know? She wanted to say that the War Princess was like the dish left in his bowl, yed with until eventually consumed.

    Cao Shuo was self-aware. She didn¡¯t get jealous or vie for favor; life was too short for such troubles. She was just a bit curious.

    Such a miraculous youth, who could be this <em>first love</em> in his eyes?

    She knew the Seventh Princess and Yun Xiao fought side by side, a match made in heaven¡­ Who else could possibly intervene?

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    The Azure Rain Sword Vessel streaked through the void, hurtling at breakneck speed.

    Inside the sword vessel, Yun Xiao was alone. It had been too long! Nearly ten days had passed. He was homeward bound with the urgency of an arrow.

    No matter where he went, his heart held only one home. Each battle abroad felt like an endless drift.

    Why could he not forget her? Yun Xiao didn¡¯t know, but she was etched in his heart as if she belonged to another world, living in a utopia that haunted his dreams.

    ¡°Senior Sister, Senior Sister¡­¡±

    Theirst meeting was when the Nine Hells was on the verge of copsing.

    Yun Xiao was in such a hurry that even when passing by the Primordial Ruins, he didn¡¯t stop to inform Liu Mumu. Instead, he descended directly into the Nine Hells, and from there, into the Divine Continent...

    Then, he arrived back at Azure Spirit! The lush green forests once againy before his eyes.

    Scenes from his early days on the path of immortality reyed in his mind as if they were only yesterday.

    Many from Azure Spirit had ascended to higher realms, leaving few behind to guard <em>home</em>.

    Soon, Yun Xiao found the Little Cloud Residence. Fearing his own power might destroy everything here, he reined in his aura andnded gently.

    The wooden hut, the fish pond, the stone table, the osmanthus tree¡­ The feeling of home was as deeply etched as ever.

    ¡°Senior Sister, Senior¡­¡± Yun Xiao murmured, about to call out again when he spotted something that made him smile knowingly.

    It was the Cosmic Pagoda. Beneath the osmanthus tree, it seemed enveloped by a long river of time, quietly flowing.

    "She ims to be detached from worldly concerns, but she''s still secretly cultivating?"

    Zhao Xuanran had once said she didn¡¯t want to enter the Cosmic Pagoda, fearing that elerated time would age her prematurely. Such a contradictory woman!

    With a grin, Yun Xiao tiptoed towards the Cosmic Pagoda. Naturally, it could not bar him.

    He quickly entered inside. A surge of light rippled, and everything brightened.

    Amidst the shimmering light, Yun Xiao stood in white robes, the epitome of youthful vigor, while opposite him, a silhouette in a ck gown sat cross-legged at the center of the pagoda, her long hair up in a bun, brows slightly furrowed in dismay.

    She seemed to have encountered a problem during her cultivation.

    "Ah... so difficult!" She sighed softly, murmuring, "I''m really not cut out for this, even with all the good fortune, I''m still light-years away from Junior Brother Yun."

    Her secretly diligent yet frustrated demeanor was endearingly cute.

    ¡°Yet, I only wish to be as close as seven inches closer to you.¡±

    A tenderugh suddenly filled her ears.

    Zhao Xuanran was startled, suddenly lifting her chin to find the ethereal youth in white standing before her. Her face flushed with embarrassment, she retorted, ¡°What nonsense is that? Aren¡¯t you hurting the baby saying things like that?¡±<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 749: A Pair of Mortals!

    "Ah, right." Yun Xiao offered a simple smile, sunny yet tinged with a touch of naivety.

    "Why are you back again? A great man like you should not keep his mind tethered to home. How will you ever wander far?" Zhao Xuanran stood, her ck gown cascading beautifully, her curves as captivating as ever.

    She was early in her pregnancy, showing no changes yet, but the glow of motherhood lent her an added allure.

    Yun Xiao, having walked the path of Immortals, had seen countless beauties among them, especiallytely. Yet, for some reason, whenever he looked at his senior sister, his heart still fluttered with a profound and moving sensation.

    A budding spring feeling! It seemed he naturally favored the in, true faces of the mortal realm; the more he looked, the more intriguing they became.

    His gaze intense, Yun Xiao boasted somewhat, "Sorry, it hasn''t even been ten days, but I''ve already conquered another map."

    "Ah?" Zhao Xuanran covered her lips, blinking. "These worlds you traverse¡ªsurely they''re not all as soft as tofu, easier than Azure Spirit?"

    Yun Xiao recalled how he spent more time in Azure Spirit than even in the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    "Senior Sister!" Yun Xiao interjected earnestly, his hands outstretched, "Remember you told me, when I''m free, to take you to see those worlds I''ve visited?""So¡­" she asked with a sly smile.

    "I''ve waited too long for today," Yun Xiao walked towards her, "Right now, would you like to?"

    Zhao Xuanran''s beautiful eyes trembled slightly, her voice tinged with a hint of emotion, softly, "Of course I would..."

    How could she not? Even if she rxed her mindset, after bearing his child, he became the sole beacon of her life.

    He was a soaring miracle, and what if one day he soared out of her reach? What then?

    So, even if unspoken, even if carefree, Zhao Xuanran yearned to witness his journeys, to make all seem less ephemeral...

    "Then, this way please." Yun Xiao gestured, extending his hand.

    "Alright." Zhao Xuanran discreetly wiped away a tear, her gentle smile concealing her emotion, as she ced her hand in Yun Xiao''s.

    Her hand''s mortal warmth stirred aforting warmth in him.

    She was one of countless fleeting lives that held no meaning to Lu Fan; who said the lowliest of life were but mere extras?

    With the stature of the Creator Immortal, standing at the pinnacle of the Dao, Yun Xiao could not deny her reality.

    Yes, mortals were weak, but they were still human! As a fellow human that started from the same ce, Yun Xiao knew this better than anyone else!

    He led Zhao Xuanran out, one hand protecting her lower back, the other shielding her slender, smooth belly.

    "What are you doing, you fool?" Zhao Xuanranughed and cried at Yun Xiao''s over-cautiousness.

    "I''m protecting our baby," Yun Xiao replied earnestly.

    "They''re not that fragile, rx a bit." Zhao Xuanran had been sitting for a while, and upon standing, she stretchednguidly, revealing a graceful and enchanting figure that made Yun Xiao fear she might stretch the baby right out of existence.

    "Just behave as usual," Zhao Xuanran said with a smile, straightening his clothes.

    Yun Xiao looked down at her lovely face, feeling a surge of emotion but restrained himself.

    "Let''s go!" His face radiant, he transformed his Sword Soul into a six-foot Sovereign Sword,ying it beside them.

    It was a scene reminiscent of times past.

    Yun Xiao helped her onto the sword, positioning her in front of himself. One hand on her waist and the other protecting her abdomen, he shielded his senior sister thoroughly...

    Zhao Xuanran could only resign herself to his overprotectiveness.

    <em>VROOM! </em>The sword took to the air!

    A breeze caressed their faces, apanied by the vast sky.

    Amidst the clouds, a pair in ck and white, two mere mortals...

    Her hair cascaded like a waterfall, the strands like countless warm hands, entwining around Yun Xiao''s face, neck, and heart, wrapped so tightly it seemed they could never be unraveled, not in a million years.

    It was just like that night when he first flew her across the night sky of Azure Spirit on his Sovereign Sword, the thrill in his heart from that moment continued to this day.

    Yun Xiao tightened his grip on her waist, applying a gentle force as if fearing she was too fragile and might slip through his fingers like a bubble, never to be caught again.

    "Junior Brother Yun, what''s wrong?" Zhao Xuanran felt the change in his emotions and turned her head to rest it against his chest, asking softly.

    "I''m just a bit lost, unsure what''s real and what''s an illusion," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Are you afraid it''s all a dream? Like your opponents, waking to find nothing left?" Zhao Xuanran whispered.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "It''s not fear, I just haven''t seen through it all yet," Yun Xiao said.

    She took his hand at her waist, looked up at him, and spoke softly, "It''s okay, I''m with you."

    Yun Xiao lowered his head, and their eyes met for a long, deep moment. Every fluttering eysh, every glint in her eyes, was vividly clear.

    The eyes were the windows to the soul, and Yun Xiao saw into her heart, where there lingered only his own silhouette. He saw all her devotion and love, her tenderness, and care.

    "To cherish every moment as ites is the greatest responsibility one can hold in life," Zhao Xuanran said.

    "Treasure the present..."

    All the confusion in Yun Xiao''s eyes dissolved with those words.

    Ahead of the Sovereign Sword, the clouds suddenly parted, revealing a sky washed in azure, all around them nothing but clear blue!

    "Senior Sister!" Yun Xiao''s excitement surged; he whisked her through the air, their trail marked by bursts of speed and sweeping turns. As they soared through the sky, he pointed towards a golden spherical world ahead, "There lies the Heavenly Realm, the heart of the Divine Continent. I got the chance to go there and participate in the War of Immortals back when I was still in the Sea of Swords¡­"

    He wove through the air, narrating his adventures in the Heavenly Realm. When the story concluded, he burst from the folds of this world into the Nine Hells, beginning the tale of that dark realm.

    Zhao Xuanran nestled in his arms, listening quietly without interruption, her eyes always soft with warmth. She clutched Yun Xiao''s hand tightly, never letting go.

    Then from the Nine Hells, Yun Xiao continued on to the Primordial Ruins, where Yun Xiao spoke of the tale of the Three Immortals and All-Life Devouring Gu.

    Finally, Yun Xiao broke through the barrier of their mortal star.

    For the first time, Zhao Xuanran felt the insignificance of Azure Spirit, breaking through life''syers to witness the humbleness of the mortal realm and the grandeur of the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    She came to understand, the vast immortal world Yun Xiao had conquered was no mere piece of tofu.

    She never knew the twists in these tales; truly hearing them spoken in his calm voice brought a flood of shock, emotion, and longing into her face and eyes¡­ She found herself unable to speak.

    "Senior Sister Zhao! This is the Great Dao Celestial Realm! All immortals here now revere me!"

    Yun Xiao had never boasted quite like this before, resembling a green youth eager to show his achievements to his crush.

    Zhao Xuanran''s eyes reddened slightly, but she smiled, her grip on his hand tightening.

    Every finger seemed to whisper to Yun Xiao her growing fear of losing him¡­ Yet, the stark reality of their differences showed her the vast chasm between heaven and earth.

    She felt a tightness in her chest.

    "We''ve seen enough, we should head back..."

    As she uttered these words, Yun Xiao suddenly burst with excitement. "Look, guess what this is!"

    He produced the Chaos Emperor Lotus!

    "A lotus flower?" Zhao Xuanran was stunned.

    "Yes! I''m giving it to you, here in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, today, I will help you consolidate your spirit, step into the Third Dao Tribtion, and be an Immortal!" Yun Xiao''s eyes zed with passion.

    "Me?" Zhao Xuanran looked at him quietly, her eyes trembling slightly.

    "Hey, don''t underestimate me! If I''m cultivating the path to immortality and can''t even bring the person I love to the pinnacle of the world, then what''s the point of my cultivation!" Yun Xiao eximed.

    Zhao Xuanran, after hearing this, tightened her grip on his hand silently. She then rxed into a smile, tears brimming, and said simply, "Okay."

    It was a straightforward word, and she was as direct as ever.

    The gap between heaven and earth did not crush her. Because Yun Xiao never imed to be the heavens; he sprang from the earth, and in his heart, he was still of the earth.

    The two sped hands, with the Great Dao Celestial Realm as their backdrop, time seemed eternal.

    "This lotus..." Zhao Xuanran bowed her head, looking at the gift he had given her.

    In her eyes, slowly surged the tide of reincarnation...

 Chapter 750: Big Lanterns Zhao!

    "What''s wrong?" Yun Xiao inquired gently upon noticing her distraction.

    Zhao Xuanran paused, her eyes still fixed on a lotus flower, and slowly said, "Such a beautiful lotus flower¡­"

    "That''s because it''s dead," Yun Xiao exined. "Alive, it would have devoured all life in the mortal realm."

    "Ah, another grand treasure of creation wasted on me, it''s a travesty," Zhao Xuanran replied, embarrassed.

    "You''re overexaggerating. It''s just the third piece of trash that I''ve discarded," Yun Xiao said,ughing, as he steered the Azure Rain Sword Vessel into the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    As the sword vessel glided through the misty clouds of the Celestial Court, Zhao Xuanran caught her first glimpse of this magnificent world, her beautiful eyes shimmering.

    "The Celestial Court is indeed beautiful, the most beautiful being the Heavenly Pce. But sadly you''re out of luck," Yun Xiao remarked wistfully.

    "Why''s that?" asked Zhao Xuanran.

    "I destroyed it," Yun Xiao admitted.As they spoke, the Azure Rain Sword Vessel descended from the sky onto the Heavenly Pce.

    Even though it was now a war-torn wastnd, this was still the richest and most tranquil part of the Celestial Court, ideal for growth.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t even let Zhao Xuanran step out of the Azure Rain Sword Vessel right away; the celestial energy outside was too overwhelming for her¡ªa single drop of mist would incinerate her in a sh.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Azure Rain Sword Vessel returned, and the Celestial Court was abuzz with activity.

    The father and son duel between Lu Yao and Lu Fan had concluded, the good news had already spread throughout the Great Dao Celestial Realm, and a new Celestial Court was rising¡ªa moment of universal celebration.

    Zhao Xuanran could hear it¡ªthe countless Immortals cheering for the young man in white by her side.

    In her eyes, the light of her junior brother shone even brighter.

    "Come inside," Yun Xiao called out.

    Soon, a tall, fiery young devil princess appeared in the Azure Rain Sword Vessel. It was the War Princess.

    At her first sight of Zhao Xuanran, the War Princess quickly said, "Hello, Big Sis."

    This address made Yun Xiao feel a bit odd. He introduced the War Princess to Zhao Xuanran, "Her name is Yao Yao. She''s my little servant. I have her help me out every now and then."

    "This¡­" Zhao Xuanran, looking at this exceptionally talented young devil princess, took a moment before saying to Yun Xiao, "Junior Brother Yun, a true man must not bully a girl. If she''s willing to serve you, how can you call her a servant?"

    "Exactly! The true face of this stinking man is clear!" the War Princess cleverly discerned, murmuring to herself, "This kid iswless, but I guess there really is someone who can tame him."

    At that moment, the War Princess'' admiration for Zhao Xuanran knew no bounds.

    This woman was certainly a mortal. Yet, she was like a sea that embraced all rivers, exuding a gentle and expansive aura¡­ unlike the aggressive Divine Dawn, which greatly annoyed the War Princess.

    Though puzzled, she did not dwell on it¡­

    "Senior Sister, let''s re-enter the Cosmic Pagoda to buy some time," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "Alright."

    Operation Soaring Mortal was in full swing, and Zhao Xuanran was somewhat nervous.

    She summoned the Cosmic Pagoda. This time distorting artifact stood within the Azure Rain Sword Vessel.

    "This pagoda¡­" For the first time, the War Princess felt the force of time and was astoundingly surprised.

    "Indeed, the woman who could subdue him is no simple figure." She silently pieced together Zhao Xuanran''s background in her mind.

    "Get ready to start." Yun Xiao ced the Chaos Emperor Lotus outside to save time while he and Zhao Xuanran entered the Cosmic Pagoda.

    "You hold the fort outside, let no one disturb us," Yun Xiao instructed the War Princess.

    "Got it," the War Princess responded.

    "Be serious. My Senior Sister is bearing my child; there can''t be any mistakes," Yun Xiao said sternly.

    "Don''t worry!" The War Princess cast an envious nce at Zhao Xuanran, thinking to herself, "A man about to be a father really is different¡­"

    Inside the Cosmic Pagoda¡­

    "This girl is quite good, suitable¡­"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Before Zhao Xuanran could finish, Yun Xiao pinched her lips, raising an eyebrow. "Focus on the task at hand."

    "Got it."

    Seeing how <em>prepared</em> Yun Xiao was, a warm current surged through Zhao Xuanran''s heart. The more nervous he was, the more it showed he cared.

    "Are you still practicing the Nine Heavens Star Technique?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I''m still cultivating it, just struggling to absorb the next Cosmic Star," Zhao Xuanran confessed.

    "No worries, today might just be your day," Yun Xiaoforted her, helping her sit cross-legged before continuing, "Let''s see your Sword Soul, shall we?"

    Zhao Xuanran extended her palm, and a nine-colored Sword Soul, which could disrupt space, shone like a rainbow inside the Cosmic Pagoda, casting her in ck as if she were the final, vital stroke on a dragon painting, instantly radiant.

    Even though the Sword Aura was somewhat weak, merely at 10,000yers, one could still sense the Sword Soul''s extraordinary nature.

    "Have you been practicing the Divine Sky Sword Arts?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I have, but it''s soplex and difficult," Zhao Xuanran admitted, sticking out her tongue slightly in embarrassment.

    "No matter, I''ll teach you slowly. Moreover, once your Genesis Spirit undergoes its transformation, your insight will surge, making cultivation no issue at all."

    Yun Xiao then instructed her to retract her Sword Soul and said solemnly, "With the Cosmic Pagoda, Divine Cosmic Sword, Nine Heavens Star Technique, Divine Sky Sword Arts, along with the Chaos Emperor Lotus and Karmic Soul Ordinance, you''ll wield great power once your cultivation advances."

    Among these, the Chaos Emperor Lotus was key.

    "All these soul techniques aren''t, but Lu Yao used them just to charm the opposite sex, truly a waste of significant talent," Blue Star chimed in from Yun Xiao''s embrace, disdainfully.

    "Bro, if your senior sister has a child, could I have any of the leftover mi¡­" Red Moon also popped up, but was cut off mid-sentence as Yun Xiao forcibly pushed him back into his robes.

    "You wish! He hasn''t even gotten to enjoy them yet! So, why should you?" Blue Star mocked.

    "No fair! There''s only us three brothers in this life! Stop hogging all the milk to yourself!" Red Moonmented, unable to hold back a mournful wail.

    "You little cat is, uh, interesting¡­?" Zhao Xuanran couldn''t help butugh and cry at the absurdity.

    "Schizophrenia, don''t mind it, let''s begin," Yun Xiao said.

    He sat behind Zhao Xuanran, his hands on her back, fingers moving delicately. Simultaneously, his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit materialized and entered Zhao Xuanran''s body directly.

    "First, let''s say hello to my kid!"

    The golden Creator Immortal condensed into a point of light and approached the residing ce of the fetus.

    "Is this it?"

    Looking at the tiny entity before him, Yun Xiao struggled to feel a burst of fatherhood. Indeed, who knew if the world would still be standing by the time this little bugger grew up...

    "With my Genesis Spirit, I embrace your soul, guiding your spirit''s growth."

    The First Dao Tribtion was simple; Yun Xiao could carry Zhao Xuanran through it swiftly. But the Second Dao Tribtion required the growth of the Dao Heart!

    Yun Xiao, with his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, nurtured Zhao Xuanran''s soul, a feat perhaps only he could achieve under heaven and earth.

    The cultivation of the Dao Heart was the first step. The birth of the Genesis Spirit was the second. Finally, the projection of the spirit outside the body was the third.

    "Junior Brother¡­" Zhao Xuanran gradually sumbed to the embrace of the Great Dao, finding herself amidst a golden sea, upheld by a supreme being who showed her the bustling splendor of the human world.

    Within this vast essence of the Dao, her own Dao Heart slowly took form.

    At the moment her Dao Heart solidified, Yun Xiao felt a tremendous stir within.

    "The Worldly Dao Heart¡­"

    This Dao Heart was identical to Yun Xiao¡¯s.

    "Is it because I''ve led the way from the start, or because she, like me, harbors the same heart?"

    This question remained unanswered. Yet at that moment, as their Dao Hearts aligned, the warmth of their union resonated through them, bringing an even greater sense offort.

    Yun Xiao felt a surge of exhration, as if proiming, ''My path is not solitary!''

    He could hardly wait to see what form her Genesis Spirit would take once manifested. Did her ancestors possess Genesis Spirits?

    But there was no rush for that.

    With her Dao Heart established, Yun Xiao slowly began to replenish her strength. From the Second Dao Tribtion onward, within her Dantian, the Fate Ocean and Heaven Sanctuary emerged...

    Soon after, the nascent Genesis Spirit of Zhao Xuanran was born!

    A delicate, youthful version of herself, the spirit of Zhao Xuanran sat atop her Worldly Dao Heart, mirroring her own visage.

    This was normal; everyone¡¯s Genesis Spirit resembled themselves, including Yun Xiao''s that reflected his appearance back when he was a mortal

    "Are you alright?" Yun Xiao whispered into her ear.

    Entering the Genesis Spirit Realm, Zhao Xuanran felt a bit dazed and responded, "A bit confused, but physically, I''m fine."

    "Then let''s continue, and speak up if anything feels wrong." Yun Xiao, eager for her to absorb the Chaos Emperor Lotus, was mindful of time.

    Next, he embraced her nascent Genesis Spirit with his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, nurturing it like a father would his daughter, gradually fostering the fragile young spirit.

    Meanwhile, within Zhao Xuanran¡¯s Dantian, a Sacred Wheel structure formed, slowly giving birth to Yin-Yang celestial power.

    Then the Five Cmities, not the Five Decays, descended!

    Zhao Xuanran endured some hardships but ultimately prevailed over the tribtions.

    Under Yun Xiao''s vignt escort through the Yin-Yang Immortal Realms, Zhao Xuanran''s celestial power flourished smoothly.

    Atst, the most crucial step was just before them.

    The projection of the spirit outside the body, the achievement of true Immortality!

    Zhao Xuanran exhaled deeply. This strange, vast power hade upon her suddenly.

    "Cosmic Stars!"

    Under the influence of her newfound strength, two Cosmic Stars descended from within the Cosmic Pagoda.

    The first Cosmic Star, which had long anchored her power, now shone within the Sacred Wheel.

    The second and third Cosmic Stars, meanwhile, merged into her Worldly Dao Heart and her nascent Genesis Spirit, infusing both her Dao Heart and spirit with the mysteries of time.

    Before projecting her spirit, the integration of the Cosmic Stars came at the perfect time.

    "Wait!" she suddenly said.

    "What is it?" asked Yun Xiao.

    "I think I can project my spirit by myself now... Divine Cosmic Sword Soul!"

    Something miraculous urred.

    Her Sword Soul appeared within her Dantian, and her spirit, standing upon the Sword Soul, transcended the confines of space in an instant, bringing her spirit out into the world!

    Although this utilized the spatial techniques of the Divine Sky Sword Emperor, it counted as a sessful projection.

    Once the spirit was outside, Yun Xiao had a way to help her absorb the Chaos Emperor Lotus.

    With absorption, her insight and innate talent would undergo aplete transformation. And from then on, even without Yun Xiao''s assistance, she could cultivate at a pace that integrated the legacies of the Cosmic Pagoda, Divine Cosmic Sword, and Chaos Emperor Lotus.

    "Bluey, Reddy." Yun Xiao handed the next steps over to them.

    The little ck creature left the Cosmic Pagoda, fetching the Chaos Emperor Lotus inside. As they stood beneath the Chaos Emperor Lotus, they said, "Big Lanterns Zhao, we can''t see your spirit; you''ll have toe closer yourself."

    "Big Lanterns Zhao?" Zhao Xuanran paused, her mind conjuring the image of whitenterns hanging from an osmanthus tree, recalling a night she swayed atop a stone table, the reflections rippling like plump whitenterns swinging in the wind...

    Her cheeks red red, and with a scowl at Yun Xiao, she retorted, "Junior Brother, you''re quite mean, aren''t you?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 751: A Little Black Ball

    Chapter 751: A Little ck Ball

    "Uhhh, just to be clear, I never came up with that nickname." Yun Xiao coughed awkwardly. Then, he nced down at the little ck beast. "Like I said earlier, that cat has problems in the head!"

    Zhao Xuanran chuckled, her heart swelling with sweetness. To her, the Chaos Emperor Lotus before her was the most dazzling thing in the world¡ªpure and wless, a supreme tonic for the spirit...

    "This fortune, useful as it might be for him, he still left it for me. Given that, there''s no room for hesitation or self-deprecation; otherwise, I''d just be letting him down."

    Zhao Xuanran was never fragile; on the contrary, during the darkest days of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, it was she who held everything together, paving a warm path of cultivation for Yun Xiao.

    She was the personification of the ideal senior sister. Regardless of heaven and earth, her presence wasmanding.

    Without a word, she plunged into the Chaos Emperor Lotus, her spirit transforming into a goddess atop the ck and gold petals.

    Zhao Xuanran and the Chaos Emperor Lotus formed a connection. With her at the core and the lotus as the catalyst, a new spirit came to life!

    "It seems I can enter the Essence Manifestation Realm and manifest my spirit directly..." Zhao Xuanran''s voice was distant, tinged with excitement.

    "Manifest it then!" Yun Xiao awaited this moment.The Essence Manifestation Realm was still weak for him, but for Zhao Xuanran, it was a step into divinity!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Before Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, petals of ck and gold spontaneously appeared, gently rising. Within these petals, a beauty dressed in a gown of ck and gold lotus petals slowly became visible, her smile tender, gazing deeply at herself.

    "Senior Sister..."

    Everything was as Yun Xiao had anticipated.

    She was Zhao Xuanran, even in the manifestation of her spirit. Perhaps this was the simplest form of a true-self spirit, but what of it? Without a predecessor to lead, one had to be the guide for the future!

    Authenticity was what mattered!

    The third Primordial Coffin had once shown Zhao Xuanran''s likeness, which had caused Yun Xiao some concern, fearing entanglements of other karma, less than pure.

    But the appearance of this gentle woman, her spirit embodied by the lotus, proved his worries unnecessary!

    She was real, pure, and simple. Just like him, a worldly heart and a true-self spirit!

    "It''s done!" Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit rushed forward, embracing the woman in the lotus gown.

    He held her tightly!

    "Junior Brother, can spirits kiss too?" Zhao Xuanran''s eyes widened, utterly astonished.

    "We can connect our spirits too," Yun Xiao dered, boldly stepping forward.

    At this moment, fear of harming their unborn was absent.

    In that instant, both spirits were engulfed in an ecstatic dream, their bodies sending ripples through the air.

    The love of spirits, while physically less expressive, surpassed all in emotional connection, binding the hearts of lovers without any space left between.

    This process also heightened Zhao Xuanran''s mastery over her spirit, making its presence more tangible to her.

    "Karmic Spirit Ordinance..."

    The abundant heritage within the Chaos Emperor Lotus surged into her mind continuously.

    As the Chaos Emperor Lotus transformed her soul, she saw the world differently. All the perplexing questions before now clicked into ce, expanding her understanding immeasurably.

    The path to immortality turned into a broad, grand avenue.

    "Senior Sister, both your body and spirit are mine now," Yun Xiao said with a satisfied smile.

    The love of spirits was boundless; the level of intimacy was almost impossible to describe without experiencing it oneself.

    After some time, Yun Xiao ceased his fervent embrace, allowing her newly manifested spirit a moment to recover.

    "Idiot." Zhao Xuanran was still dazed.

    She retracted her spirit, continuing to nourish it with the celestial power of the Essence Manifestation Realm, forged by the Nine Heavens Star Meridians into an energy as vibrant as a stream of multicolored stars flowing through her Dantian.

    "I''ll forge your Sword Prisons for youter," Yun Xiao said.

    Forging the Sword Prisons was simple, merely icing on the cake.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Today had been a resounding sess!

    "Go about your tasks; I''m in no rush. Now that I''ve entered the Dao, I can find my own way. You go forth boldly," Zhao Xuanran instructed.

    "Huh, no way! Since I''m trapped in the Great Dao Celestial Realm without a way out, I might as well stay by your side," Yun Xiao replied.

    Though anxious, he could not hasten their escape.

    Fortunately, with Moon Fairy navigating the Six Paths of Reincarnation, progress was being made elsewhere, preventing wasted time.

    With a great weight lifted from his heart, Yun Xiao felt immensely relieved.

    With hundreds of years added to her lifespan, protected by the Cosmic Pagoda and enlightened by the Chaos Emperor Lotus, Zhao Xuanran was essentially immortal in the Great Dao Celestial Realm.

    The three Cosmic Stars further stabilized her life, ensuring her enduring stability.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Azure Rain Sword Vessel, the War Princess was staring at the Cosmic Pagoda, utterly bored, nearly nodding off.

    Suddenly, the Cosmic Pagoda shrank, and two beams of light emerged from within it. The woman in the ck gown caught the War Princess'' eyes.

    "She''s changed a lot..."

    The figure of Zhao Xuanran in her eyes was distinguished and graceful, exuding a sense of grandeur.

    "Who does she remind me of?" The War Princess pondered for a while and finally found aparison.

    It was Empress Zhao!

    "It''s somewhat that feeling, but for some reason, she seems much more refined, and not at all haughty or overbearing. Instead, she''s approachable, like the big sister next door..."

    It was just a nce, but her mind whirled with many thoughts.

    "Congrattions," the War Princess said, a hint of envy in her voice.

    "Thank you for your hard work as well," Zhao Xuanran responded gently. Previously, she had felt somewhat uneasy in front of the War Princess, but now, with her spirit matured, she was much moreposed.

    "Let''s tour the Great Dao Celestial Realm together." Yun Xiao, unable to wait, pulled her from the Azure Rain Sword Vessel and stepped into the Celestial Court.

    Apart from the Heavenly Pce, the rest of the Celestial Court was also breathtakingly beautiful!

    Yun Xiao nned to soar through the skies with her on their Sovereign Swords, to rx thoroughly before seeking a way out to his next destination.

    After stepping out of the sword vessel, Zhao Xuanran, now in the Essence Manifestation Realm, felt like a mortal ascended to heaven, her eyes wide with awe...

    "Grand, isn''t it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Mhm," Zhao Xuanran nodded.

    "Let''s stay here from now on! I''ll build you another Little Cloud Residence,plete with a fish pond, a stone table, osmanthus trees, and the finest celestial wine," Yun Xiao dered confidently.

    Zhao Xuanran paused, slightly embarrassed, "But, Junior Brother Yun, I''d still like to return to Azure Spirit sometimes."

    "Why? That ce really hinders cultivation," Yun Xiao remarked.

    Zhao Xuanran looked down. "It''s just that, the feeling of home, it''s not something you can find just anywhere. Staying there, I feel more at peace."

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao wasn''t one to fuss over such matters.

    He had provided Zhao Xuanran with many opportunities and never needed her to aid him inbat.

    So, what was the difference in the pace of cultivation? Findingfort in nurturing life, that naturally took precedence. Everyone had their pursuits, and not imposing was the greatest respect.

    "Let''s go!"

    A streak of azure light and a nine-colored Sword Soul soared into the sky.

    She and Yun Xiao were about to gracefully navigate the heavens, savoring a rare journey of pleasure¡ªa wee respite for Yun Xiao, who had been pressing hard for months.

    "Senior Sister Zhao!"

    In the winds of the Celestial Court, Yun Xiao looked at the woman beside him, her ck hair flowing, her gaze profoundly serene, and he felt an immense sense of happiness.

    He was a lonely wanderer, his soul adrift. Without Zhao Xuanran, he would forever be like a kite in the sky, never finding a ce tond.

    Divine Dawn was like another kite, their interactionspetitive, conquering, confrontational¡ªwere intriguing.

    The War Princess was like the tail of his own kite; a kite couldn''t be without its tail.

    Thunder Emissary Cao was like a gust of wind¡ªrefreshing as it passed, pleasing both the kite and the breeze, but that was all.

    With all the thrills and uncertainties on the path to immortality, it was easy for his drifting heart to lose its sense of reality. That''s why Zhao Xuanran was so important to Yun Xiao. Only her eyes and peaceful smile could calm his restlessness¡­

    Yun Xiao couldn''t lose her, or else he''d lose his way home, and everything would turn into a fleeting illusion.

    "Junior Brother Yun." Zhao Xuanran stood on her nine-colored Sovereign Sword, gazing out at the expansive world.

    Zhao Xuanran needed Yun Xiao just as much too. All her waiting was for the moment when his drifting ceased, waiting for an answer.

    The broader his world, the more uncertain she felt. So, at this moment, they flew side by side, hands tightly sped in the wind. They had their brief moments ofpanionship.

    The two toasted together to a small sk of wine, the warmth of the drink baring their souls.

    "Tsk tsk, drinking while flying. Here I thought you changed."

    "Alcohol affects more than just you! A reckless sword ride can split a family in two!"

    The little ck beast was perched on Yun Xiao''s shoulder, joining in the rare moment of rxation with constant chattering.

    Just then, the expression on the little ck beast¡¯s face suddenly changed!

    ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over, it¡¯sing out!¡± Blue Star shrieked.

    Yun Xiao abruptly stopped his Sovereign Sword, furrowing his brow and asking, ¡°What¡¯sing out? Are you having a baby?¡±

    ¡°Damn! You guessed it!¡± Red Moon trembled in difort.

    Right after his words fell, Blue Star¡¯s face turned red, his throat trembling violently¡ªa clear sign he was about to vomit.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong¡­¡± Zhao Xuanran turned her Sovereign Sword around, approaching with a face full of concern.

    At that moment, Blue Star could no longer hold back, and with a retch, he expelled a ck object.

    ¡°A Primordial Coffin!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s face changed.

    Blue Star had actually vomited out the third ck Primordial Coffin.

    The ck Primordial Coffin trembled, clearly about to undergo a transformation.

    ¡°That Six Paths of Reincarnation''s Dao Source is in a distantnd, why would it react now!¡± Yun Xiao was greatly shaken. He felt an urge to flee!

    A sense of foreboding filled his heart as he quickly reached out to grab the ck Primordial Coffin.

    Unbelievably, the coffin, just like Blue Star and Red Moon, suddenly transformed, morphing from a coffin into flesh and blood, and in an instant, it became a furry ck beast.

    It looked just like a ball! This ball, covered in ck fur and without any discernible features like hands, feet, a mouth, or a nose, was perfectly round.

    In the next moment, the furry ck sphere split open to reveal six round eyes, each filled with a golden iris.

    The sight seemed familiar to Yun Xiao!

    His heart skipped a beat. "Six-Eyed Pandemonium?!"

    The Six-Eyed Pandemonium from the Six Paths of Reincarnation probably looked simr to this fleshy ball with six eyes.

    However, the massive Six-Eyed Pandemonium, devoid of fur, appeared quite repulsive, and its eyes were murky, not like the golden, dazzling, cold, and domineering eyes before him now.

    "What in the world?" Blue Star was also taken aback, indicating even he was unfamiliar with this furry ball.

    "A little beast ball?" Zhao Xuanran, unaware of its hostile intent, found it rather adorable.

    "Squeak!" The little beast ball suddenly let out a sharp shriek, its tone seemingly feminine.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>It abruptly appeared above Zhao Xuanran''s head, nesting there, its six golden eyes suddenly swirling into golden vortexes.

    "Huh¡­?" Zhao Xuanran shuddered, her eyes transforming into golden spirals. She became eerie and detached.

    With a woosh, she turned and fled on her Sovereign Sword, disappearing into the distance in an instant...

 Chapter 752: Disaster in the Six Paths!

    Chapter 752: Disaster in the Six Paths!

    Yun Xiao''s heart almost dropped at the sight of Zhao Xuanran disappearing. The Third Primordial Coffin had transformed into a six-eyed beast and whisked her away!

    Instinctively, he chased after them with his Sovereign Sword!

    <em>VROOM! VROOOM! </em>A nine-colored rainbow sword and an azure sword raced through the sky in a furious blur.

    "What in the world is happening?" Yun Xiao asked the little ck beast in his robe.

    "I have no idea!" Blue Star eximed, wide-eyed. For even him to be clueless only deepened the mystery.

    As Yun Xiao watched Zhao Xuanran speeding away into the horizon, he felt a fire of urgency re within him. Fortunately, he was faster, and in a blink, he soared right in front of her!

    "Senior Sister!" Yun Xiao had barely called out when Zhao Xuanran suddenly descended toward the ground below.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Beneath them, a barrennd hung in the misty celestial fire.

    <em>HUM! </em>Zhao Xuanrannded on this deste ground, her eyes still swirling gold vortexes, her expression unreadable.Above her, the six-eyed beast continued its eerie, spectral presence.

    "Stay put, let me have a taste!" Red Moonnded and roared, his coarse voice shaking the entire barrennd.

    Desperate, Yun Xiao found himself dealing with his nonsense.

    Hearing Red Moon¡¯s remark, the six-eyed beast chirped indignantly, then surprisingly spoke in human tongue, "Disgusting!"

    Its voice was like that of a small, tender child, soft and sweetly glutinous.

    "Release my Senior Sister Zhao first. Whatever you desire, we can discuss it calmly," Yun Xiao said, regaining hisposure.

    The six-eyed beast paid him no heed. Its six eyes suddenly burst forth with dazzling golden lights, enveloping the wholend. Under this golden glow, the rocks, soil, rivers, and trees of this barrennd transformed as if being forged into gold itself.

    This was no mere alchemy of turning stones to gold; it transformed water, wood, and earth as well.

    The once barrennd, in a mere moment, transmuted into an ind of pure gold. Then, from nowhere, dark runes began to etch themselves upon this golden isle, assembling into a vast celestial formation!

    And Zhao Xuanran stood right at its heart. Bathed in the golden light, she seemed beyond the ordinary... Yet, this was not her usual demeanor. She was meant to bring warmth, not distance.

    "Junior Brother Yun..." she softly began, her golden vortex eyes gradually halting to gaze deeply at Yun Xiao. "Do not worry, it''s merely a change of environment for the baby."

    "Where?" Yun Xiao asked through gritted teeth as he beheld the grandeur of the golden celestial formation.

    "A new home... ours," Zhao Xuanran spoke, her eyes swirling once again like a golden ocean.

    "A new home?"

    Why seek a new home when one already existed? What was her rtion to this six-eyed beast? Or was shepletely under its control?

    At that moment, the beast addressed Yun Xiao, "Don''t you think abouting near that Dao Source!"

    Having said that, it activated the golden celestial formation, which now showed six massive vortexes, each resembling an eye. These six eyes surrounded Zhao Xuanran; she levitated above them, her body now engulfed in a ck and gold radiance!

    "Junior Brother Yun..." she called out softly, her toneden with affection, reluctance, and a trace of confusion.

    Yun Xiao knew her call was genuine; her every sentiment hung on those words.

    Sadly, the sudden emergence of that third Primordial Coffin left Yun Xiao no chance...

    Just then, the golden six-eyed celestial formation erupted, a blinding light burst forth, piercing the skies of the Great Dao Celestial Realm with its fierce brilliance!

    Soon, with a humming sound, the light exploded.

    When the brilliance finally faded, Yun Xiao found before him an empty expanse...

    Divine Dawn had gone with her new master to the Ancestral Land, Moon Fairy fell into the Six Paths of Reincarnation, and now Zhao Xuanran, taken by the third Primordial Coffin, vanished without a trace.

    "A new home? What exactly is happening..." Yun Xiao muttered, peering into the dimming golden light with no one in sight. He then looked down at Red Moon and Blue Star, who had poked their head out of his robes.

    "That third Primordial Coffin seems to have a mind of its own. It has no desire for you to merge with a Dao Source, nor does it want to be a part of the Creator Immortal," Blue Star remarked with a thoughtful expression.

    To revive the Creator Immortal and surpass his past, the fusion of the Ten Primordial Coffins and Dao Sources was crucial for Yun Xiao.

    Heaven Burial Sword Soul, Prison Warden Sigil¡­ these were elements the Creator Immortal had never possessed before!

    "Thankfully, the other Primordial Coffins are quiet," Blue Star added.

    "But what''s my senior sister''s connection to this Primordial Coffin?" Yun Xiao frowned.

    "Your sister is just an ordinary mortal, in as day. What connection could she possibly have? This is just a straight-up kidnapping, holding her as leverage to threaten you," Blue Star replied.

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao grew even more worried.

    "Don''t worry, that little six-eyed furball is still naive. It''s good at fleeing, but we''ll catch it soon enough."

    The little ck beast leapt down from Yun Xiao''s robe andnded on the golden ind.

    After Zhao Xuanran''s departure, the six-eyed celestial formation and the golden ind remained, albeit somewhat twisted and chaotic, their structure damaged.

    "Good news!" Blue Star looked up excitedly. "We can repair this thing and use it again. Get ready, once I''ve fixed it, we''ll follow them."

    "Oh? We were missing a way to leave, and here it is!" Red Moon cackled.

    The two were lighthearted, still finding joy in the moment.

    "How long will it take?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Half a day," Blue Star estimated after some thought.

    "Alright!"

    Yun Xiao still had to settle some affairs in the Great Dao Celestial Realm and called over the War Princess.

    He instructed the War Princess to inform Cao Shuo and the others toe.

    "Huh?!"

    Just then, Yun Xiao''s expression turned curious.

    "What is it?" The little ck beast, busy on repairing the six-eyed celestial formation, called out to Yun Xiao.

    "From my body double, in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, there''s news about my senior sister!"

    With that, Yun Xiao closed his eyes, focusing his attention on his body double, Moon Fairy.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Six Paths of Reincarnation, Beast Path, on the road to the Beastly Spires military camp¡­

    Moon Fairy was idly chatting with the tree demon Old Kapok when suddenly, the earth beneath them trembled violently.

    Behind them, a monstrous roar shook the heavens, so loud it seemed as though the entire realm of the Six Paths of Reincarnation trembled.

    <em>RUMBLE! </em>The surroundingnds, mountains, and rivers appeared to rip apart, copse, and reverse.

    For a moment, this world, thousands of timesrger than Naraka or the Great Dao Celestial Realm, felt as if it was splitting at the seams.

    That beastly roar especially¡­ it grew louder, more savage, and more harrowing by the second!

    "What is that?" Moon Fairy looked up, only to see a massive, sky-darkening shadow pass over them through the storm, heading deeper into the Beast Path. It smashed through numerous mountain peaks along its path, emitting ghastly cries that sounded utterly desperate.

    "The Soul Refining Skulltopus! What could scare it so, to abandon its post and flee in such panic?" Old Kapok''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    "Silence!" The ck Brute Bear turned around, her crimson eyes scanning the ranks, andmanded, "Everyone, back to the Soul Refining Cauldron, to investigate the truth!"

    "Yes, Colonel!"

    Hearing this, the 1,000-strong Destion Corps tensed. The disturbance was so vast that even they felt fear.

    However, as the Destion Corps of the Beast Path, military orders were absolute and their duties grave. None of the members dared to hesitate. They turned back, heading towards the direction of the Soul Refining Cauldron.

    At the same time, various flying talismans chaotically fluttered among the troops!

    Before they could reach the Soul Refining Cauldron, Moon Fairy noticed that many in the Destion Corps already knew what had happened. They were all immensely shocked, and the news stirred a buzz of voices.

    Although Moon Fairy had just been assigned the position of adjutant, he had yet to earn the respect of the Destion Corps. So, no one reported anything to him.

    "Old Kapok!" Amidst the chaos and cries, Moon Fairy grasped a branch of Old Kapok, pulling the tree demon close to asked, "What on earth has happened?"

    Old Kapok thrashed his branches wildly, his voice hoarse as he exined to Moon Fairy, "At the entrance of the Six Paths of Reincarnation, another six-eyed creature appeared¡ªits eyes golden! It seems to have in the old Six-Eyed Pandemonium!"

    "What?" Moon Fairy was staggered, "It got here so quickly?"

    "This is big trouble! The old Six-Eyed Pandemonium was the axis of the Six Paths of Reincarnation world. Without it, who will manage the reincarnation cycles? Now, the entire Six Paths are in disarray!" Old Kapok''s branches iled in distress.

    "And the new Six-Eyed Pandemonium, after killing the old one, then what?" Moon Fairy was less concerned about the functioning of the Six Paths for the moment; he was more worried about Zhao Xuanran.

    Had she appeared here as well?

    "It entered from the Heavenly Path," Old Kapok said.

    The Heavenly Path was the highest and first vortex at the entrance of the Six Paths of Reincarnation, far more noble than the Beast Path.

    "And after it entered? Where did it go?" Moon Fairy pressed urgently.

    Old Kapok was preupied with the worry of the old Six-Eyed Pandemonium''s death¡ªa matter of grave consequence for their world, not just for him but for everyone present.

    "I''ll find out more!" Old Kapok, calming himself after a while, was also curious about the developments and hurried to mingle with the other troops.

    Now, there was no need for physical scouting; information was gathered purely through flying talismans.

    Yun Xiao, anxious, had Moon Fairy, his body double, join in listening to the troops as they discussed in shock.

    "The Reincarnation Bastion! It went to the Reincarnation Bastion!"

    "What''s it nning to do?"

    The mention of the Reincarnation Bastion seemed to concern every soul present; many of the Destion Corps members were visibly tense, their nerves taut.

    The atmosphere turned eerily silent, everyone''s expression grim as if the end of the world had descended.

    In a moment, the flying talismans seemed to explode¡ªmany troops received the news!

    "The Reincarnation Bastion is damaged; the cycle of reincarnation has been forcibly halted!"

    "What!"

    With this news, the entire Destion Corps was shaken anew, everyone exchanging bewildered looks, faces etched with confusion.

    "What exactly is the goal of that Golden Six-Eyed Pandemonium? To first kill the Guardian of the Six Paths of Reincarnation entrance, then destroy the Reincarnation Bastion, ruining both the entrance and the exit?"

    "Does this make any sense? The cycle of reincarnation benefits so many. Whose interests are being disturbed here to warrant the destruction of the Six Paths of Reincarnation?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 753: Six Paths Yama Empress!

    Chapter 753: Six Paths Yama Empress!

    "This event isn''t just about power struggles. No one here can shake the roots of the Samsara Gxy. This must be some peculiar incident... After all, the Samsara Gxy has seen only one Six-Eyed Pandemonium before, and this second one¡¯s even stronger. Where on earth did ite from?"

    Despite the Destion Corps numbering but 1,000, their chatter was ceaseless and loud.

    "Hurry, ask around! What¡¯s the follow-up? Anyone got friends near the Reincarnation Bastion? Where did that Golden Six-Eyed Pandemonium head after damaging the bastion?" the ck Brute Bear roared from a distance, silencing the crowd. They quickly sent out flying talismans to gather thetest news.

    Moon Fairy approached the Colonel, known to have the most reliable information. Soon enough, someone would report to her.

    As expected, a demon, resembling an elephant, crashed through, its trunk extended, mouth gaping like a cavern, and bellowed, "Colonel, there''s even more startling news!"

    "Out with it!" the Colonel growled.

    The elephant demon, visibly shaken, blurted, "It¡¯s said that this new Six-Eyed Pandemonium has been apanied by ady, whose silhouette might just be that of the legendary figure missing for eons..."

    "Who? Don''t keep us in suspense!" the Colonel snapped impatiently.

    "The former master of the Six Paths of Reincarnation!" the demon eximed, eyes wide."She¡¯s back? The Six Paths Yama Empress? But she¡¯s dead, isn¡¯t she? Her reincarnation never seeded¡­" The Colonel was stunned.

    The crowd, too, was shocked, and all began to murmur.

    "I also heard she didn¡¯t make it into the Reincarnation Bastion before she died."

    "But it''s been ages, and none of us saw it with our own eyes. How can we be sure? What if she did enter?"

    "If the Six Paths Yama Emperor has returned, she''d likely first strike down that old Six-Eyed Pandemonium..."

    "It''s unavoidable, the realms she ruled were too rich!"

    The discussions grew heated, while Yun Xiao listened, more bewildered than ever.

    Blue Star had imed Zhao Xuanran was just a mortal. Now here, she¡¯s thought to be the reincarnated Six Paths Yama Emperor?

    Who should he trust? Blue Star, or the inhabitants of the Six Paths of Reincarnation.

    If she were indeed the Six Paths Yama Empress... Yun Xiao might actually feel relieved, knowing at least she would be safe.

    "Until there''s official confirmation, no talk of the Six Paths Yama Empress should leave the Destion Corps," the Colonel barked, quieting the crowd once more.

    Just then, she received a flying talisman. After reading it, she dered, "She may not be the Six Paths Yama Empress."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Why not, Colonel?" the demons queried, confused.

    "Because after that Six-Eyed Pandemonium wrecked the Reincarnation Bastion, it didn¡¯t linger but headed towards the Heavenly Deity Ster River," the Colonel exined.

    "The Heavenly Deity Ster River? It''s the one in the Samsara Gxy where the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is about to be held, right?"

    "Yes, that''s the one. It''s the busiest spot right now¡­"

    "Indeed, there are many cultivation sects there."

    Moon Fairy found himself speechless again.

    "It sure ran off quickly."

    Yun Xiao had hoped the Six-Eyed Pandemonium would linger here, giving his body double a chance to stall it.

    "Let my true selfe over, and we''ll handle it together!"

    For now, his body double had scouted the path, but that six-eyed beast had grown significantly by ying the old Six-Eyed Pandemonium, turning into a monstrous creature too powerful to confront in a short span.

    It was, after all, the third Primordial Coffin!

    And this Six Paths of Reincarnation was precisely the matching Dao Source for it.

    "Everyone, don''t be too disheartened. Although this incident has heavily impacted us, at least the Six Paths Heaven Heart is safe," the Colonel said calmly.

    "Colonel, the main target of the Six Paths Yama Empress must be the Six Paths Heaven Heart, right?" Old Kapok asked dully.

    "The old Six-Eyed Pandemonium, Reincarnation Bastion, and the Six Paths Heaven Heart, these must all be her targets. Among them, the Six Paths Heaven Heart is the most crucial. Controlling the Six Paths Heaven Heart means controlling the Six Paths of Reincarnation," the Colonel sneered, "It''s good that this new Six Paths Yama Empress doesn¡¯t seem to have much fighting power. She seems to have mostly been relying on that new Six-Eyed Pandemonium, which ourbined forces have wounded. That''s probably why the two have fled to the Heavenly Deity Ster River."

    "Thank goodness!"

    "If the Six Paths Heaven Heart had been captured, we''d be finished!"

    "Not necessarily. A change in the rule of the Six Paths of Reincarnation would just be like a restoration of an old dynasty."

    "Don''t speak nonsense!"

    The Destion Corps breathed a sigh of relief.

    "The Six Paths Heaven Heart? Commanding the entire sanctuary world? Since that coffin wants it too, it must be crucial!" Moon Fairy''s eyes gleamed.

    His goal was set. If he could seize what the others hadn''t, not only could he save Zhao Xuanran. But it might also allow him to obtain the third fusion of a Dao Source with a Primordial Coffin!

    Whatever he obtained would at least be on par with Heaven Burial and Prison Warden.

    "If possible, while my true self heads to the All Sects Immortal Assembly in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, my body double will stay here, focused on seizing the Six Paths Heaven Heart... We must take that Primordial Coffin! Damn, it''s time for a counterattack¡­!"

    Previously somewhat clueless, now Moon Fairy had a clear mission. Moreover, he still had to rescue the Great Mother and Pale Revenant!

    The Six Paths of Reincarnation held too many secrets worth uncovering.

    The only uncertainty was whether his true self could make it here smoothly.

    Blue Star was currently exerting all his power to mend the situation, and whether he would seed remained to be seen.

    "Listen up!"

    The Colonel''s demeanor was stern as she suddenly swept her gaze over the crowd. "The woman suspected to be the Six Paths Yama Empress and Six-Eyed Pandemonium could strike back at any moment to seize the Six Paths Heaven Heart. Our world is at a crossroads of life and death. As the Destion Corps of the Beast Path, we bear the grave responsibility of guardianship. From this moment, everyone must be alert and ready for battle!"

    "Yes, ma''am!"

    Though the words were spoken, everyone understood that if the Six Paths Yama Empress were acting by herself, then this was a high-stakes game that didn''t truly involve the Destion Corps. They merely needed to suppress any opportunists stirring up trouble.

    "The personnel at the gate of the Six Paths of Reincarnation are in disarray. We''ll head there immediately to maintain order!" the Colonel dered.

    "Yes!"

    Under her leadership, the Destion Corps thundered out, heading towards the direction of the Soul Refining Cauldron.

    "The Soul Refining Cauldron, huh... that octopus fled, leaving chaos everywhere..."

    Moon Fairy took a deep breath, his six tails held high, silver hair streaming through the air as he rushed towards the Soul Refining Cauldron.

    The Soul Refining Cauldron also had destion! Each time they reached a new world, it was the moment when Yun Xiao, Moon Fairy, and the War Princess saw the most explosive increase in their strength. Now was the time to race against the clock.

    Suddenly, a blood-red tree loomed overhead.

    It was Old Kapok! His branches swayed in the wind, chuckling, "Little brother, fancy a lift?"

 Chapter 754: A Childs Duty

    Chapter 754: A Child''s Duty

    In the midst of a river of starlight, a woman dressed in a ck gown, her garment swirling with celestial luminescence, darted toward the nebulous frontier before her.

    Above this river, the waters shimmered with dreams and illusions. It was here Zhao Xuanran awoke, slowly rising from the cosmic flow.

    "My child¡­" she murmured, her heart fluttering as she peered down at her sped hands.

    Upon unfurling her fingers, a tiny ck furball, now much reduced in size,y in her palm, resembling an egg adorned with six golden, spiral eyes that hung listlessly, hinting at exhaustion.

    "Mom, I''m alright," the six-eyed creature reassured, gathering its eyes on the side facing Zhao Xuanran, though its voice bore a tinge of mncholy.

    "Are you truly okay?" Zhao Xuanran lifted the furball to her eyes, brimming with concern.

    "Yes... but the disguise is fading."

    As it spoke, the creature''s body began to change, its physical form dissolving into pure ck essence, akin to a soul, minuscule and embryonic...

    A fetal soul!"My child," Zhao Xuanran whispered, cradling the tiny soul in her hands, her eyes filled with worry and deep affection.

    "Don''t worry, it''s fine!" Despite its small size, the fetal soul''s spirit was robust, as it dered through its miniature mouth, "This attempt might have failed, but once we reach the Heavenly Deity Ster River, I can temporarily gain strength again. Then, we''ll secure the Six Paths Heaven Heart!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Alright, alright..." Zhao Xuanran nodded earnestly, her gaze fixed tenderly on the tiny figure in her palm, her heart nearly melting.

    Her eyes slightly reddened, shemented, "How did ite to this?"

    "It''s not surprising, given the fundamental difference between you and him. That <em>thing</em>, and you were never meant to conceive a child. Yet, by some twist of fate, here I am¡ªhow could there not beplications?" the fetal soul said with an air of weary wisdom.

    "How could you call him a <em>thing</em>? He''s still your father," Zhao Xuanran countered, her headache intensifying.

    "Mom, I don''t want to argue," the fetal soul retorted, rolling its eyes.

    "Fine..." Zhao Xuanran continued her swift passage through the river of starlight, her expression troubled as she addressed the fetal soul in her palm, "My child, is your body really struggling to hold on?"

    "Nonsense! Do you know you had an ectopic pregnancy? I managed to struggle back on my own, but it''s still not sustainable. My development has nearly ceased; without change, I''m done for. What a troublesome gestation!" the fetal soulined with a grimace.

    Amidst the swirling starlight, Zhao Xuanran recited softly to herself, her voice barely a whisper against the cosmic winds. "To secure your birth, we must take the Dao Source as your body, and the Primordial Coffin as your soul. Only then can you be preserved. Now that the Primordial Coffin has be your soul, we justck the Dao Source..."

    These cryptic necessities were all revealed to her by the small being within her. How could she, Zhao Xuanran, have known any of this on her own?

    "It seems he still has some conscience, giving you that lotus. My soul secretly absorbed some of its essence to escape with you, and to steal that coffin for us¡ªotherwise, I''d have been doomed," the fetal soul chattered optimistically, still bouncing in Zhao Xuanran''s grasp. Its voice and tone suggested it might be a girl.

    "To grasp the Six Paths Heaven Heart, and to merge the world of the Six Paths of Reincarnation with the Primordial Coffin inside me¡ªonly then can the pregnancy be sustained."

    Zhao Xuanran loosened one hand to touch her belly, her face clouded with bewilderment. Who among her family could possibly understand? To birth a child, she had to devour an entire magnificent world.

    "You''re not even three months old; how do you understand all this?" Zhao Xuanran asked, half in tears, half inughter.

    "I don¡¯t know; maybe it has something to do with my old man. Even when he was still in Azure Spirit, I had already formed a consciousness, absorbing and observing everything about the world," the fetal soul dered with confident pride.

    "What?" Zhao Xuanran recalled the romantic escapades she had with Yun Xiao before she even realized she was pregnant. The embarrassment nearly choked her then.

    What kind of mysterious child was this?

    "And how do you know about the Six Paths of Reincarnation, Six-Eyed Pandemonium, and Heavenly Deity Ster River?" Zhao Xuanran was filled with questions.

    From the moment it appeared, this entity imed to be her unborn child, needing her help to survive, then proceeded to devour the old Six-Eyed Pandemonium, destroy the Reincarnation Bastion, and attempt to seize the Six Paths Heaven Heart. Throughout it all, she felt utterly bewildered.

    "The Primordial Coffin and Six Paths of Reincarnation are a pair, containing a vast amount of useful information about the Samsara Gxy. The celestial formation that brought us here was also within that Primordial Coffin," the fetal soul exined nonchntly.

    "Alright then!" Zhao Xuanran felt somewhat relieved by the exnation.

    But the more she thought about it, the more mystifying it seemed. She then asked, "Why didn''t you tell everything to your father? With his help, surely we could manage faster."

    "Faster my foot, he¡¯s too slow, and I can''t hold on much longer. There¡¯s no time to exin," the fetal soul scoffed dismissively.

    "He''s slow?" Zhao Xuanran could onlyugh and cry at her predicament.

    That fellow had soared to the heavens in haste, yet still, he found himself looked down on.

    However, moments ago, the fetal soul had devoured the Six-Eyed Pandemonium and then wreaked havoc in the Six Paths of Reincarnation with rming speed. Had it not been for its failure, all issues would now be resolved. But evidently, its powers were grossly unstable, leaving the fetal soul utterly exhausted and fragile after its efforts.

    "Why do you seem to despise him so much?" Zhao Xuanran asked softly, her voiceced with curiosity.

    "Shouldn''t I? That man is too arrogant, surrounded by a slew of women! I despise him¡ªutterly andpletely," the fetal soul eximed, hands on hips and huffing with irritation.

    "Is that the reason?" Zhao Xuanran pressed.

    "Yes, and that¡¯s why I used the Primordial Coffin to frighten him¡ªto scare him to death!" the fetal soul boasted proudly.

    So, it seemed this child was determined to fend for themselves, unwilling to seek help...

    "That¡¯s not right." Zhao Xuanran gazed down at the fetal soul. "When we left, you deliberately left the celestial formation for him. Deep down, you still hoped he woulde to your aid, didn¡¯t you?"

    "Not at all." The fetal soul shook its head.

    "And you knew he had a body double in the Six Paths of Reincarnation. Even if you couldn¡¯t get the Six Paths Heaven Heart, he would, and then he''de looking for you," Zhao Xuanran continued.

    "I¡¯ll get there before him," the fetal soul argued stubbornly.

    "That''s not certain. His abilities far surpass yours. Once his true self reaches the Six Paths of Reincarnation, you¡¯ll be out of the picture," Zhao Xuanran stated confidently.

    "Hehe, who said he could reach the Six Paths Reincarnation?" the fetal soul scoffed.

    "What? You altered the direction of the celestial formation?" Zhao Xuanran was taken aback.

    The fetal soul smiled mischievously, its silence a clear affirmation.

    "Where are you sending him?" Zhao Xuanran asked nervously.

    "To a sect filled with heavenly Immortal beauties!" the fetal soul replied with a coldugh.

    Zhao Xuanran froze, biting her lip. "Silly child, isn¡¯t this just¡ª?"

    "Don¡¯t worry, mom. I¡¯ve made sure; that sect is full of devilish women. He likes to spread his affections around, doesn¡¯t he? This time, they¡¯ll strip him down ayer or two."

    Zhao Xuanran was stunned. "You¡¯re not even born yet, and already dealing with such matters, that¡¯s tough on you."

    The fetal soul puffed up its chest, dering, "Punishing that scoundrel of a father is the child''s duty!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 755: Empress Cao!

    Chapter 755: Empress Cao!

    "Achoo! Is someone talking behind my back?" Yun Xiao sneezed, his heart pounding with urgency as he waited beside the golden ind.

    Everything seemed to go wrong the moment the third Primordial Coffin appeared. He couldn''t help but feel a sense of unease.

    Now, all Yun Xiao could do was wait for the War Princess to bring Cao Shuo and the others over, while Blue Star worked on repairing the golden celestial formation left behind by the six-eyed beast. Of course, Red Moon was no help, onlyining and whining about being bored.

    Eventually, a young female Yin Devil, apanied by three Celestial Court beauties, emerged through the mist. Enveloped in delicate clouds, they appeared, each with their unique allure, bathed in the wind.

    Yun Xiao gestured for Cao Shuo, Gu Suwan, and Yue Yin to approach and pointed towards the golden celestial formation, saying, ¡°I think I''ve found a way out. Something urgent came up. So, I''m going to test it out in a moment. After I leave, I''ll be relying on you three to rebuild the Great Dao Celestial Realm and mortal realm.

    With almost all the Rank 6 or higher officials of the Celestial Court gone, there was a desperate shortage of hands.

    After the departure of Divine Dawn, Cao Shuo had anticipated this day. But she still hadn''t expected it toe so soon.

    "You''re leaving already? Is it always like this, rushing from one ce to the next?" Cao Shuo asked, batting her eyshes, a touch of grievance in her eyes.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Yun Xiao nodded with a solemn look, stunning Cao Shuo. Gu Suwan and Yue Yin, aware of their shorings, resigned themselves to obey Yun Xiao''s arrangements for the rest of their lives, naturally daring not to speak more.

    ¡°Go on, give your instructions,¡± Cao Shuo urged, seeing his anxiety and knowing it wasn''t the time for dy.

    Yun Xiao nced over the vast expanse of the Great Dao Celestial Realm. It wouldn''t be easy to rebuild the Celestial Court, but he knew it could be done. The most important task was eliminating all traces of the All-Life Devouring Gu, and strengthening the protection and nurturing of the mortal realm.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell anyone else I¡¯ve left. Just rebuild the Celestial Court under the name of Lu Yao as the Emperor, with all daily matters managed by Thunder Emissary Cao, and you two assisting,¡± Yun Xiao instructed.

    ¡°At a time like this, you''re still calling me Thunder Emissary Cao?¡± Cao Shuo couldn¡¯t help butugh and cry.

    This was literally a change in dynasty!

    ¡°What would you rather be called then?¡± Yun Xiao caught the hint in her words.

    ¡°To work for you in myter years without any perks? No perks are fine, but there ought to be a title to reward my efforts,¡± Cao Shuo hummed.

    ¡°You want to be the Empress Dowager?¡± Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh.

    ¡°What, is that not allowed?¡± Cao Shuo asked.

    ¡°Sure, I''m fine with it, Empress Cao.¡± Yun Xiaoughed.

    Seeing his affirming answer, Cao Shuo¡¯s eyes immediately sparkled, evidently, though she had not lived in vain, she also sought some recognition from Yun Xiao.

    For Zhao Xuanran, Divine Dawn, and even the War Princess, the title of Empress Dowager meant little in the grand scheme.

    "Your Majesty, should you have any finalmands before you depart, do tell me!" Cao Shuo adopted the pose of the former Empress Zhao, though shecked her dignity, and she even added a touch of flirtatiousness.

    Unfortunately for her, Yun Xiao was all business.

    "My master, Liu Mumu, and Lu Yao''s mother, they''re still in my homnd. Please bring them back and ensure they are well cared for..." Yun Xiao said.

    "Lu Yao''s mother is as good as our own, naturally, she would be the Grand Empress Dowager." Cao Shuo nodded.

    With her assurance, Yun Xiao felt relieved.

    "I won''t have the chance to bid them farewell. Please convey my apologies. Of course, I intend to visit often," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "You better! I already spent most of my life being pent-up. If you make me go through another dry spell, I swear I''ll turn into a cactus!" Cao Shuo murmured, biting her lip.

    "Ahem," Yun Xiao coughed awkwardly, then continued, "I also have another favor to ask. I have many good friends back in my homnd. I''d like you to guide them so they can eventually cultivate in the Great Dao Celestial Realm. I''ve written down their names and locations on this paper; please treat them with the utmost care."

    Cao Shuo took the golden paper from his hand, quietly reading, "All members of the Azure Spirit Sword Sect, Ning Yan, Mu Dalong, Mu Xiaolong, Mu Tianjian, Netherworld Emperor, Chen Xiao, Nangong Xi, Su Lianlian, Azure Phoenix Empress..."

    The list was long, covering nearly everyone who had assisted Yun Xiao along his journey.

    "Figures, there are more women than men!" Cao Shuo remarked, giving Yun Xiao a yful re.

    "Opposites attract, such is thew of nature," Yun Xiao replied, his heart clear and his spiritual path firm.

    "Alright," Cao Shuo tucked away the golden paper, patting her chest. "Rest easy, I''m the woman behind you, ready to manage your realm and your past. Go and conquer; when you''re weary, return to rest and meet old friends."

    "Suddenly so formal?" Yun Xiao saw her in a new light.

    "Everything''s getting better; I''m happy," Cao Shuo smiled, her face glowing with a radiant, content smile.

    Indeed, she was a fortunate woman, sensible and mature, clearly a bringer of good fortune to her husband.

    Yun Xiao had said nearly all that needed saying.

    With Cao Shuo holding the fort, he had no worries.

    If Azure Spirit was his immediate family, then the Great Dao Celestial Realm and the mortal realm were his extended family.

    Now, as he pursued his personal dreams, he left the care of this great family, this great empire, in her hands.

    Yun Xiao could not have been so assured with anyone else.

    After everything was settled, Yun Xiao asked Blue Star about the progress on repairing the golden celestial formation.

    "Just wait a bit longer, another hour. Why the rush! You¡¯d be better off going home for a ss of milk!" Blue Star retorted impatiently.

    "What, what, milk!? I want to go too!" Red Moon wailed, attempting to drag Blue Star away.

    "No, you idiot. Pipe down! I was just making a joke! We''ve still got this stupid thing to fix!" Blue Star eximed, smacking the face on his belly.

    At the same time, Yun Xiao was pulled away for a more private <em>conversation</em>.

    ¡°Hey, before you hit the road, could I have you for onest moment?¡± Cao Shuo tugged at Yun Xiao¡¯s sleeve.

    Taken aback for a moment, Yun Xiao nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±

    With a joyful smile, Cao Shuo grasped his hand, and they drifted into the clouds, striding away into the mist.

    Gu Suwan and Yue Yin couldn¡¯t help but roll their eyes.

    ¡°What are they up to?¡± the War Princess asked, her tone tinged with annoyance.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Who knows, you could always check on them,¡± Yue Yin said with a sly smile.

    Amidst the swirling mists, Yun Xiao halted, facing the towering, alluring figure before him, her curly hair enhancing her seductive aura, the very air around her thick with enticement from the Celestial Court.

    ¡°You know¡­¡± Cao Shuo bit her lip, her voiceden with worry, ¡°suddenly entrusting me with such a massive responsibility, on one hand, to protect your family and friends, and on the other, to pacify the vast, chaotic Great Dao Celestial Realm after such turmoil¡ªit requires immense power, and I fear I may not be up to the task¡­¡±

    Yun Xiao covered his face with his hand. ¡°Enough with your act; you just don¡¯t want to feel like you¡¯ve lived in vain, do you? You used to be much wilder.¡±

    Cao Shuo blushed. ¡°Isn¡¯t it because you, my dear little brother, have be a godlike Emperor? The pressure is immense.¡±

    ¡°Enough of that,¡± Yun Xiao said as he wrapped an arm around her slender waist, pulling her close. Her curves crashed against him, rippling waves of desire, while he cupped her charming face with his hand. ¡°Alright, today I might as well try having a go at the Empress Dowager.¡±

    ¡°Does this status alsoe with a thrill bonus?¡± Cao Shuo asked, raising an eyebrow, her voice a whisper of orchids.

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    She wasn¡¯t in a hurry, but Yun Xiao was; he took the initiative, his voice a roar, ¡°Summon your eight avatars; I want to test out the 18 Peaks Array!¡±

    After such prolonged warfare, it was time to thoroughly indulge...

    As the sound of tearing filled the air, the mists of the Great Dao Celestial Realm trembled, as if they too carried the scent of fervor.

    The cries of unabashed living echoed through the heavens and the earth.

    Yun Xiao, engulfed in a blizzard of sensation, exerted himself relentlessly, unable to catch his breath.

    This was the final, resounding sh of the Celestial Court! Here, in the fervid soil of the realm, Yun Xiao and Cao Shuo left behind their most intense passions and fighting spirit!

    With each booming echo, the mists spat fire.

    "Hey! Why aren''t you speaking?" The War Princess darted through the clouds, speaking to the Mortal Dust Devil Seed within her heart.

    However, Yun Xiao didn''t respond! The rumbling ahead was loud, clearly, he was there.

    "Blue Star said the golden celestial formation is fixed! Answer me!" she shouted at her heart again.

    Still, there was no response. With no other choice, the War Princess bit her lip and moved forward. Even from a distance, her heartbeat sped wildly, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood surging through her, turning her skin a drunken red, misted with a haze of blood...

    She knew what those two were doing. Yet, she couldn''t control herself, wanting just a glimpse...

    Atst, the War Princess saw the two of them. Amid the clouds, her body trembled, her eyes clouded, her worldview shaken profoundly.

    Finally, Yun Xiao''s voice rang out from within her heart.

    "Hmm? What''s up?"

    "We can go now," the War Princess murmured, her voice trembling.

    "Wait for me, I¡¯ll be right there," Yun Xiao said.

    Soon, the young man arrived beside her, his body steaming with warmth. Her entire body was so red it seemed ready to drip blood; she didn¡¯t dare to face him, especially not with her ears burning bright red.

    "Did you also¡­?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "No, no..." The War Princess quickly shook her head, her breathing ragged, and after struggling for words, she managed, "I mean, am I going with you?"

    "Of course," Yun Xiao suddenly grasped her hand.

    The moment their palms touched, the War Princess shuddered violently, nearly copsing into his embrace.

    "Wow, such a strong reaction? No wonder everyone likes Yin Devils," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Don''t insult me...!" the War Princess huffed.

    "It''s just admiration and appreciation," Yun Xiao said.

    In the realm of seduction, the Yin Devils indeed stood at the pinnacle of the world. Perhaps only Thunder Emissary Cao, with the power of her nine avatars, could barelypare.

    "Stop fantasizing, let''s go." Yun Xiao pulled her along, returning to the golden ind.

    "Where''s Cao Shuo?" Gu Suwan asked instinctively.

    "She might need a few days to rest," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Ah..." Both Gu Suwan and Yue Yin wore peculiar expressions, caught between envy and fear.

    "Don''t misunderstand; I mean, she just entered the Night God Realm, and her spirit is a bit unstable, needing some time to adjust," Yun Xiao exined.

    His exnation sounded more like a cover-up.

    The two women could only nod andugh awkwardly.

    "Thank you both." Yun Xiao didn''t borate further before turning away and heading off for the golden ind.

    Holding the War Princess¡¯ hand, Yun Xiao also grabbed the little ck beast. Together, the three of them stood at the center of the golden celestial formation.

    <em>BUZZ1 </em>His true self finally plunged into the starry tunnel.

    "Six Paths of Reincarnation, here Ie!" Yun Xiao looked ahead at the starlight, his ambitions soaring.

    After some time, he felt he was nearing the end of his teleportation.

    "Hmm?" Blue Star sniffed and said, "Is this the Six Paths of Reincarnation? Why does it smell so heavily of makeup!"

 Chapter 756: Milk World?

    Chapter 756: Milk World?

    "Huh, the smell of make-up?" Yun Xiao sniffed the air, but detected nothing. His nose was nowhere as keen as that of the little ck beast.

    "I still need to get the Six Paths Heaven Heart¡­"

    His body double Moon Fairy was near the Soul Refining Cauldron at this very moment. With the gates to the Six Paths of Reincarnation in chaos, it was the perfect time to slip in unnoticed.

    "What could the Six-Eyed Pandemonium be nning by taking my senior sister to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects at the Heavenly Deity Ster River?"

    Yun Xiao actually preferred his true self to chase after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    Now, possessing the Immortal Asylum and considerable resources, Moon Fairy could embark on the journey without him.

    With such a body double, Yun Xiao hoped to maximize the benefits.

    If not for the War Princess'' unreliability, Yun Xiao would have considered assigning her out.

    "Wow..."Despite her imposing stature, the War Princess was still a young girl at heart. Seeing the starry tunnel for the first time with Yun Xiao, her crimson eyes sparkled with fascination at the bizarre changes around them.

    Her slender fingers gripped Yun Xiao''s hand tightly, never letting go.

    "You know, I hate to admit it. But maybe you really are starting to grow on me," Yun Xiao said amidst the twinkling stars, suddenly gazing into her eyes.

    "Stop it, you''re just lustful and possessive," the War Princess retorted with a huff, her cheeks tinged with red.

    Yun Xiao resided in her heart; he could feel her heartbeat, her emotions¡ªnone were hidden from him.

    "Everything about you is soft, except for your stubborn mouth," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Well, you''ve never grown on me! You''re all bad habits¡ªgreedy, and vtile," the War Princess dered.

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao didn''t deny it; he epted his imperfections and faults. Without another word, he simply led her through the endless stars, toward their final destination.

    "It feels like we''ve broken through a barrier."

    "Indeed," Blue Star nodded from Yun Xiao''s robe.

    "Do you know what sort of barrier it is?"

    "It''s a peculiar one, likely one set up by you in your past life. No wonder the Great Dao Celestial Realm is so secluded," Blue Star remarked.

    "Are you saying that the entire Great Dao Celestial Realm is just a tomb set up by the Creator Immortal?" Yun Xiao was astounded.

    "It appears that way," Blue Star said earnestly. "Two Dao Sources and the Immortal Asylum here are no coincidence."

    "Why does it seem like you never know anything?" Yun Xiao said, exasperated.

    "I''m literally a coffin that''s degraded to this!" Blue Star retorted with a string of curses.

    "Alright then!" Yun Xiao had juste to understand; after so much turmoil, he had finally emerged from the tomb set by the Creator Immortal.

    This was actually a good thing. It meant he hadid enough groundwork to finally step out from the safety designated by the Creator Immortal, leaping into the broader expanse of heaven and earth, free to grow!

    "Not bad, the fledgling leaves the nest," Blue Star remarked with a click of the tongue.

    "The other nests are in for it now!" Red Moon cackled.

    "Let''s devour the grass at our own nest first!" Blue Star said with a sinister grin, looking at the War Princess.

    "That''s half a body double of our bro, reserved only for consoling himself." Red Moonughed too.

    "Both of you hurry up and die." Yun Xiao grabbed their necks and shoved them deep into his embrace.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>As he spoke, at the end of the starry tunnel before them, a dazzling light suddenly appeared.

    Yun Xiao knew that after surpassing that unknown barrier, the end was finally in sight!

    "Six Paths of Reincarnation, here Ie!"

    Youthful spirit surging, he pulled along the taller Yin Devil girl, charged with vigor, and plunged into the light.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the light swirled, the War Princess screamed, and Yun Xiao instinctively held her.

    Due to the height difference, though he held her waist, his face had to bear the brunt of her considerable sticity, sinking into it somewhat.

    In her panic, she also inadvertently wrapped her arms around Yun Xiao''s head.

    <em>CRASH! THUD! </em>Lacking the elegance of others'' teleportations, Yun Xiao and the War Princess were literally flung out, bumping several times along the way.

    If not for the buffering, they would have been a mess.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Finally, he burst forth from the starry tunnel, all pressures of the body suddenly lifted.

    Yun Xiao had been thoroughly <em>emptied</em> by Cao Shuo before departure. So, as pleasant as the experience just now was, he didn''t make any moves. After realizing the journey was over, the two quickly separated.

    "That was scary..." The War Princess'' chest rose and fell like ocean waves, panting for breath, taking a moment to collect herself while straightening her clothes and casting a reproachful nce at Yun Xiao.

    "Are you alright?" Yun Xiao asked casually, turning to look behind him where a shimmering spatial rift was slowly fading away. They could no longer return to the Great Dao Celestial Realm through this pathway.

    The way home was cut off¡ªa piece of bad news.

    "I''m fine," the War Princess realized the gravity of their situation and asked, "Didn¡¯t you say when Moon Fairy reached the Six Paths of Reincarnation, the ground below him was made out of formations powered by Celestial Sourcecores?"

    "Yes, that¡¯s right." Yun Xiao was puzzled as well.

    Behind themy an endless expanse of stark, hollow ckness, a stark contrast to the star-filled sky of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, where countless celestial bodies were embedded like jewels in the sky''s canvas.

    Here, in this pitch-ck void, there were no boundaries, no walls¡ªjust endless darkness.

    Yet there was light. The light came from another direction.

    Yun Xiao and the War Princess turned towards it.

    "This..."

    Their young faces were immediately illuminated by the light.

    Yun Xiao felt as if he was seeing the Great Dao Celestial Realm for the first time all over again, equally awestruck by its vastness and grandeur.

    This time, the awe was magnified a thousandfold.

    Fortunately, he had already witnessed the Six Paths of Reincarnation; otherwise, it would take a long time to digest this sight.

    "It¡¯s too beautiful," the War Princess murmured, seeing such splendor for the first time.

    Her lips parted slightly, her long, serpent-like tongue coiled inside, glistening, barely visible.

    This Yin Devil¡¯s tongue, stretching a good six inches out of her mouth and another two when unfurled, was a rare sight indeed, unique to Yun Xiao¡¯spany.

    "This Celestial Sourcecore is 1,000 times the size of the Celestial Court!" Yun Xiao, overwhelmed by its vastness, made his estimate.

    This was a world almost as vast as the Six Paths of Reincarnation itself, although thetter was a Sourcecore Sanctuary and this was a pure Celestial Sourcecore!

    The Six Paths of Reincarnation, shaped like a rectangr coffin, was about four times the size of the world before them.

    It was indeed beautiful!

    Before them floated a pink and white Celestial Sourcecore, with waves of the same hues swirling about it. It resembled a crystal ball filled with misty stardust¡ªdazzling, utterly breathtaking.

    Compared to it, the Great Dao Celestial Realm seemed as rudimentary as a mere stone.

    But the problem was¡ªN?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Where''s my Six Paths of Reincarnation? How did I end up here?" Yun Xiao lifted up the little ck beast.

    "I have no idea!" Blue Star retorted, wide-eyed.

    "Why do you always have no idea?!" Yun Xiao asked, exasperated.

    Blue Star didn''t reply, but Red Moon excitedly interjected. "I know! It smells wonderful, so fragrant, this is a milk world! Brother, let''s go in, our haven awaits!"

    Yun Xiao paused. He sniffed the air; the pink and white world indeed carried a fresh, natural fragrance... It was truly extraordinary!

    A whole world, sweet and fragrant like a chunk of milk?

    "It does smell nice, but what ce is this exactly?" the War Princess curiously asked.

    "Let''s go down and see," Yun Xiao took a deep breath.

    Although he had left the Great Dao Celestial Realm, his expression was not optimistic, troubled by thoughts of his senior sister.

    But he soon came to terms with it.

    "Though we didn''t reach the Six Paths of Reincarnation, at least we''re out of the tomb. This milk world... cough, might be part of the Samsara Gxy. It''s so dark around, and inside this world, there might well be a teleportation formation leading to other worlds. Even if it doesn''t go directly to the Six Paths of Reincarnation, reaching the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects in the Heavenly Deity Ster River would be even better. And perhaps this is the Ancestral Land. If we blend in, we might even return to the Great Dao Celestial Realm."

    With that thought, Yun Xiao decided to first explore this <em>milk world</em> thoroughly.

    "Hopefully, the protective celestial formations here aren''t activated, and there''s no ce like the Ascension Pool."

    On this, Yun Xiao could only gamble. He exchanged a nce with the War Princess, and side by side, they approached the milk world¡­

    The closer they got, the more awe-struck they became!

    They were gradually enveloped in the misty pink and white fog, their vision filled not with stars but with pale waves of pink and white.

    "It''s so cold." The War Princess'' eyshes and ck hair quickly frosted over, forming tiny pink and white crystals, her skin as cold as snow.

    "This Celestial Sourcecore is all of icy attributes, the opposite of the Great Dao Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao observed.

    Where the Great Dao Celestial Realm was a world of fierce fire and thunder, this ce was an ocean of icy cold.

    It was truly beautiful!

    The white spirals and waves atop this Celestial Sourcecore were all icy tides, while the pink was a deadly chill. Together, they mingled into a torrent of pink and white that swept across the world.

    "It''s too cold. If the Great Dao Celestial Realm were moved next to this milk world, it would extinguish like a candle me in an instant," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "I reckon any cultivator who hasn''t undergone the Third Dao Tribtion wouldn''t stand a chance of surviving here," the War Princess shivered as she spoke.

    "Indeed," Yun Xiao continued, "However, the icy Celestial Sourcecore here is exceptionally condensed and of high quality. Achieving the third tribtion here should not be difficult."

    "Are you suggesting newborns here go straight to the Third Dao Tribtion?" the War Princess asked, astonished.

    "There might be some greenhouse protection," Yun Xiao suggested.

    "It''s so cold." The War Princess'' face turned slightly pale.

    Yun Xiao casually took her by the waist to draw her close; his Primordial Void energy was more yang in nature and could dispel some of the chill.

    Due to their height difference, their closeness always seemed somewhatical.

    "Let me hold you instead, shorty," the War Princess huffed, embracing Yun Xiao and moving forward, which looked more harmonious.

    In this unfamiliar ce, their affection for each other grew warmer than ever. Though they spoke little, heart pressed to heart, even their heartbeats began to synchronize.

    "By the way, do you have any goals in life?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    "I only wanted to stand out initially, to earn respect from my father and my n. Now that I''ve exceeded those goals, I don''t really have any," the War Princess replied.

    "No wonder you''re sozy," Yun Xiao scoffed.

    "You know nothing. I''m enjoying life. Who wants to live like you, always tense, wishing to stretch an hour into ten years?" the War Princess retorted.

    "Our fates are different. I chose a path with greater pressure," Yun Xiao reflected.

    "So your fondness for love-making is also a way to relieve stress and soothe your mood?" the War Princess looked at him queerly.

    "Ahem. Indeed." Yun Xiao hadn''t expected her to think that way and hurriedly continued, feeling awkward, "I can''t help it, the pressure is too great. If it''s not vented, it builds up inside, and I might go mad."

    "You do have it tough..." the War Princess mused, suddenly realizing that with no Cao Shuo, Zhao Xuanran, nor even that little white tiger around, his stress must be overwhelming. What could be done?

    "Why is your heart racing?" Yun Xiao asked.

    The War Princess bit her lip, stammering, "I''m worried about your stress."

    "Haha." How had Yun Xiao never noticed before how adorable she was?

    "Don''t overthink it. Let''s just survive here first..."

    Yun Xiao looked out at the endless pink and white icy fog of this Celestial Sourcecore, so vast it was suffocating, yet his eyes ignited with a fierce ze.

    "The grander the world, the more opportunities there are. For us, fortunes are everywhere! Freed from the tomb of creation, no matter what world lies before us, it''s just a stepping stone for our rise against the heavens. Since you''ve no goals left, then fight wholeheartedly alongside me. I spared you at the beginning, and I''ll never treat you poorly from here on."

    Hearing his fervent and assertive words, the War Princess was initially moved, but she quickly scoffed, "A yboy''s word is as good as a turd. I''d be a fool to trust you. Who knows when you''ll use me up and leave me a drained, dry husk."

    Yun Xiao just smiled, offering no rebuttal. They continued onward!

    "Lucky us, no obstacles. We''ve reached this milk world," Yun Xiao noted.

    "Why call it a milk world?" The War Princess found the name odd.

    "Doesn''t it taste a bit like it?" Yun Xiao nced at her. "But not as sweet as you."

    "Get lost!" The War Princess red at him.

    She still harbored some reservations, and Yun Xiao was not one to force matters. Whether it was Zhao Xuanran or Divine Dawn, circumstances and fate had yed their parts, while Cao Shuo had quite literally forced herself on him¡­

    So, he respected the War Princess'' feelings. Matters of the heart needed to develop naturally.

    "Is thatnd over there?" Soon, within the vast pink and white mist, she spotted a critical location.

    "Yes. It''s vast, endless."

    In this world, 1,000 times the size of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, even a single floatingndmass could be 100 times the size of the Heavenly Pce. On this floating continent, the two of them were but specks of dust, descending unnoticed.

    They descended from the sky,nding in a forest. The trees here soared hundreds of meters high, most with white trunks and pink canopies, resembling a pink ocean. The branches bore fruit, each like a crystal of ice.

    The ground was covered in white snow.

    Looking out, it was a translucent, pink and white snowynd.

    "What a beautiful world."

    Even the War Princess'' youthful heart throbbed with excitement here.

    "It''s beautiful, sure, but if the whole world is just this color palette, it¡¯s rather monotonous. A world should be vibrant and colorful." Yun Xiao felt less impressed with the tender, pink world.

    "Yes, after all, it shes with your straightforward masculinity," the War Princess teased.

    Yun Xiao was about to respond when he suddenly tensed. "Someone''sing."

    Hearing this, the War Princess¡¯ expression turned serious.

    Being new to thisnd and knowing nothing of this world, they definitely needed to interact with the locals to understand it.

    First contacts were crucial!

    Yun Xiao thought to hide and observe the neer secretly, but he felt immediately targeted.

    It was as if the eyes of heaven had locked onto him!

    "This power... It''s somewhat like the Divine Imperial Son¡¯s halo?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 757: A Purgatory For Men!

    Chapter 757: A Purgatory For Men!

    Yun Xiao stood still beside the War Princess, gazing at the blush-white snow forest.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Suddenly, a blizzard surged forth, carrying pink petals in its flurry, ethereal and dreamlike, its beauty crumbling away in enchanting decay.

    Amid the snowy mist, the first sight to meet their eyes was a pnquin, encircled by snowkes, pure and pristine.

    This scene reminded Yun Xiao of when Moon Fairy encountered Yanfu Tan.

    However, the bearers of this pnquin were much fewer. There were no burly mythical beasts but rather young boys with delicate features.

    These young bearers walked with their heads bowed, their eyes timid, struggling under the weight of the white pnquin through the storm. Their quick pace made their small bodiesbor hard, breaths heavy and gasping.

    Fortunately, upon reaching Yun Xiao and the War Princess, they finally stopped, cautiously setting the pnquin down. They knelt beside it, curling into the shape of turtles, burying their heads deep into the snow, leaving only the napes of their necks visible.

    This bizarre tableau caused both Yun Xiao and the War Princess to pause in astonishment.

    The next moment, the curtains of the pnquin flung open!Seated inside was a young girl dressed in a goose-yellow tunic, appearing no older than 13 years old. Her clothes were beautifully adorned with various jewels, clearly of no ordinary value.

    Moreover, behind her head, Yun Xiao indeed saw a halo of the same goose-yellow hue, its glittering light elevating the girl to a divine, untouchable status.

    "A devil woman?" The goose-yellow girl''s eyes fixed on the War Princess, her lips curling slightly.

    A thought struck Yun Xiao, "Even Yin Devils are revered in such realms?"

    This girl, much like Yanfu Tan, was likely to seize someone as her servant upon their first meeting!

    But this time, how could he let the War Princess be taken away?

    He was about to inquire about the girl''s intentions when she directly addressed the War Princess, "Your male servant looks quite fine. I¡¯ll trade these four for him, what do you say?"

    Both Yun Xiao and the War Princess were taken aback. The War Princess herself almost chuckled. Male servant? What an absurdity!

    Seeing no response from the War Princess, the goose-yellow girl began to boast, "These four male servants of mine are of excellent quality. I spent 300 Supreme Immortal Jades on them, and they are quadruplets, most importantly, very well-behaved. Have a look!"

    Yun Xiao and the War Princess turned to see the four youths, faces buried deep in the snow, utterly submissive.

    "Well..." The War Princess, transitioning from a maid to a mistress, felt a rush of pride and considered teasing Yun Xiao a bit. However, she saw his gaze quickly chill. Sensing his anger, she quickly addressed the goose-yellow girl, "I''ve kept this servant for a long time; I''m not selling him."

    "Fine!" The goose-yellow girl''s interest waned. She nced at the War Princess with a mix of annoyance and disdain. "Still in the Third Dao Tribtion and thinking of entering the Harmony Divine Pce? Have you even obtained the Ring of Harmony?"

    "What''s it to you?" the War Princess retorted coldly.

    Her haughty attitude did its job, and the goose-yellow girl pursed her lips, no longer wishing to engage. Instead, she turned to the trembling boys, "What are you waiting for, carry the pnquin! If you dy us, you won''t even have one ear left!"

    Yun Xiao then noticed that all four boys were already missing their left ears.

    "Yes, master." The four did not dare to look up as they hurriedly lifted the pnquin and carried it away, their faces pale.

    "Nonsense," the War Princess muttered.

    "Indeed." Yun Xiao took her hand and suggested, "Let''s go, we''ll find another target to explore."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Mhmm¡­"

    Just as they were about to leave, a blizzard suddenly whipped up behind them.

    The ground shook, trees trembled violently, and heaps of snow cascaded down.

    "You despicable ve!"

    A shrill voice came from behind.

    Yun Xiao turned to see the goose-yellow girl had returned, standing on a tree branch, looking down at them with utter coldness.

    Behind her, the four boys carrying the pnquin dropped to the ground, first staring dumbfounded at Yun Xiao holding the War Princess'' hand, then quickly kneeling and burying their faces deep in the snow, leaving only the backs of their heads visible.

    "What are you yelling for?" the War Princess, clearly annoyed, asked coldly.

    Far from intimidated, the goose-yellow girl sneered back at them, "You filth, holding hands with a male ve, you''ve defiled the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! You¡¯re in big trouble now!"

    With that, sheunched three flying talismans from her hand, her expression growing even colder.

    "Flying talismans?" the War Princess'' eyebrows furrowed.

    "Obviously, to report you and im a bounty! Just in time for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, the Harmony Divine Pce has increased the reward for the sin of master-ve rtionship. You¡¯re about to make me rich!" the goose-yellow girlughed, clearly feeling lucky.

    Her arrogance,bined with the terror of the four boys buried in the snow, vividly illustrated the harsh rules of this world to Yun Xiao.

    "Wait!" The girl in the goose-yellow tunic stared intensely at Yun Xiao, her gaze dropping below his waist with a look of horror. "That smell is as vile as an animal''s musk, your man has not been cleansed?!"

    "Cleansed?" Yun Xiao nced at the four young boys; their aura was devoid of vigor, reced by softness and fear.

    "I''ve struck it rich!" The goose-yellow girl could hardly believe her luck as she gazed at Yun Xiao, her heart pounding with glee.

    However, Yun Xiao immediately erupted with killing intent, signaling the War Princess beside him.

    "Oh, hell no!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>The War Princess summoned the Nightshade Blood Dragon, and suddenly from the ground rose a vine-blood dragon, erupting swiftly to form a prison of bloody tendrils.

    Yun Xiao followed up with his Sword Soul and Life Sigil.

    Empowered by the Prison Warden Sigil, he unleashed 10,000 thunderbolts which merged with the Nightshade Blood Dragon, creating a maelstrom of blood and lightning.

    His Heaven Burial Sword Soul transformed into a Flying Sword, phasing into the void, reappearing poised behind the girl''s head!

    "Trying to silence me? Hmph! You''re only in the Third Dao Tribtion!"

    Infuriated and her halo zing brilliantly behind her, the goose-yellow girl unleashed an invisible force that halted Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword.

    "Break!"

    Her slight frame shook violently, a wild surge of celestial power exploding into a tempest of ice and snow, sting apart the thunder-d Nightshade Blood Dragon.

    "A dirty man dares to attack me?!" She sneered triumphantly, as if witnessing a joke.

    "I''m still going to kill you." Yun Xiao¡¯s smile was chillingly sly.

    "Eh?" The goose-yellow girl suddenly felt a piercing cold envelop her body.

    She looked up just in time to see a golden Buddha''s Treasure Spirit appear above her, its sword plunging down in a storm of ck and gold lotuses!

    <em>Karmic Spirit Ordinance!</em>

    The golden and ck lotuses tore through the girl¡¯s celestial defenses in an instant, prating her body.

    "AGHH...!" Her face twisted in agony, her scream echoing tragically. In the next instant, her eyes dimmed, the nk orbs filled with resentment and fury.

    With a thud, her body fell straight to the ground.

    "She might be in the Fourth Dao Tribtion, but she''s nowhere near the Divine Imperial Son." Yun Xiao stepped forward and collected everything from her body, extracting a white ring shaped like a serpent with a woman''s torso at each end.

    "This must be the key to the Harmony Divine Pce," he mused.

    Yun Xiao needed the teleportation formation, and the Harmony Divine Pce was evidently the next ce to gain understanding. Yet, he harbored many unanswered questions! His instincts screamed that this world was perilously dangerous for him.

    The War Princess, expressionless, refined all the blood from the goose-yellow girl.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao devoured her Buddha''s Treasure.

    "Pity Pale Revenant and the Great Mother aren''t here, what a waste," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "First, let''s figure out this cleansing they wanted to do on you," the War Princess chuckled.

    At this, Yun Xiao could only shake his head. He looked up at the four boys. They had just witnessed Yun Xiao y the girl as she screamed¡ªa sight that had them trembling and copsing breathless on the ground.

    Yun Xiao approached and crouched beside them, "Brothers, perhaps you can enlighten me?"

    "You... you''re finished. You''ve stirred up big trouble..."

    "We... we won¡¯t say anything, we..."

    Clearly terrified out of their wits, they stuttered and tripped over their words.

    Seeing this, Yun Xiao drew the Heaven Burial Sword Soul andid it across their field of vision, his voice icy, "I''ll ask, you answer. Any dy or mistake, and heads will roll. If you want to live, speak up."

    "Yes, yes..." They seemed pitiful, as if they had been frightened their whole lives, and now was no different. ustomed to fear, they groveled in the snow, faces buried like turtles trembling in the cold.

    Yun Xiao''s heart softened slightly, and he gently probed, "First, let''s test how well you cooperate. This world we''re standing on, it¡¯s called the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, correct?"

    "Yes, yes..." they mumbled through the snow, hurriedly confirming.

    "The Harmony Divine Pce, is it the strongest force here?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Yes, yes..." they hurriedly responded.

    To be honest, they were so gripped by fear that they never doubted Yun Xiao''s origins; in their world, fear was all they knew.

    "Is the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm a part of the Samsara Gxy?" Yun Xiao pressed on.

    "Yes, it is."

    It was only then that they seemed to rx a bit.

    "Is it a dominant power, an unknown entity, or a mid-level force?" Yun Xiao reached down, pulling one boy''s face up from the snow to look him in the eyes.

    "It¡¯s a dominant power, quite renowned!" the boy answered.

    "Are you the oldest among the four of you?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes, I am," the boy said. After speaking, he nced at the War Princess and then quickly looked down again, his fear of her still greater than his fear of Yun Xiao.

    "Can one travel from here to the Heavenly Deity Ster River to attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects?" Yun Xiao asked.

    The boy hesitated, then said, "This ce is part of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, and the Harmony Divine Pce holds slots for the conference, but you have to make the selection..."

    "Does the selection at the Harmony Divine Pce have gender requirements?" Yun Xiao queried.

    "Big brother..." the boy nearly cried, "please, just ask your questions directly! I''ll answer what I know."

    Clearly, because Yun Xiao''s questions seemed too straightforward, they thought it was part of a test.

    "Just answer my questions, nothing else," Yun Xiaomanded.

    "Yes, yes..." the boy resignedly nodded, ¡°In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, there¡¯s only one gender."

    "Are there no men?" Yun Xiao asked, perplexed.

    "Only cleansed male servants; we are ves, meant to serve our masters, lowly ves..." the boy said, tears falling.

    "Only women and eunuchs?" Yun Xiao eximed in shock.

    Such a system might be understandable in a pce, but this was a massive world, 1,000 timesrger than the Great Dao Celestial Realm!

    "Yes..."

    The word <em>eunuch</em> seemed less painful to the boy than male ve, yet his gaze remained somber.

    "Then, how do the people here propagate?" Yun Xiao asked, stunned.

    Hearing this, the other three boys began to calm down a bit, all lifting their heads.

    The second boy looked at Yun Xiao, feeling a hint of kinship, and said, "Big brother, the women here just drink from the Divine Spring and they conceive, bearing daughters to continue their lineage. Men have no ce in this world; this realm of yin celestial energy suits women better..."

    "And of women?" Yun Xiao was astounded, his worldview expanding.

    "And how did youe to be here?" the War Princess couldn''t help but ask.

    "We..." the third boy said with deep sorrow, "we were captured to be lowly ves. The first step upon arrival is cleansing, and some are sold here. The top celestial maidens here don''t do physicalbor; they are busy cultivating, so they need many ves..."

    "Are all the men here <em>cleansed</em>?" Yun Xiao asked, dazed.

    The idea of so many innocents suffering such a fate weighed heavily on him.

    "Brother, they''ve even shaved the eggs smooth!" The fourth boy cried out in grief, his tears flowing freely.

    Yun Xiao was at a loss for words. The pain of men! All he could offer was his deepest sympathy, multiplied 10,000 times.

    "Sadly, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is known as the purgatory for men. It''s said that even a Heavenly Monarch must leave his <em>cock</em> and <em>eggs</em> at the border of the realm. How did you manage to remain uncleaned?" The first boy''s look of envy was palpable.

    "So, you mean to say, in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the Harmony Divine Pce is the only gateway out?" Yun Xiao rified.

    "Yes!" all four boys said in unison.

    "Can''t one travel through space? Or by celestial boat?" Yun Xiao probed.

    "The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is on the fringe of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, too far from any other Celestial Sourcecore for even a celestial ark to make the journey. Moreover, the protective celestial formation of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is vast; there''s no way to sneak through," the first boy exined.

    Yun Xiao now understood. He must have been directly transported inside this protective celestial formation.

    With this, he gained a clear understanding of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the Harmony Divine Pce, and the operational rules of this world.

    "Even a Heavenly Monarch has to leave their cock and eggs behind?" Yun Xiao looked down at himself, a chill running down his spine.

    Just how fearsome were the women of this ce? He had just witnessed it firsthand from a young girl barely in her teens.

    "Bluey, did you deliberately trap me here?" Yun Xiao used half-jokingly.

    "I didn''t know!" Blue Star retreated up into his abdomen.

    "Then who set me up?" Yun Xiao was exasperated.

    What a cursed ce! Holding hands with a male servant was a major offense, with substantial rewards!

    What would happen if they discovered he was uncleaned? Would it be a scandal of the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm?

    "Haha..." The War Princess suddenly burst intoughter beside him, teasingly looking at Yun Xiao, "You''re doomed. Your once-mighty reputation is about to be ruined. We''ll be sisters soon."

    Yun Xiao, unable to tolerate it any longer, red at the War Princess, "I was already under enough pressure, and now it''s even worse. Don''t push me."

 Chapter 758: No Injustice Ignored!

    Chapter 758: No Injustice Ignored!

    If given a choice, Yun Xiao would have never set foot in this world, which could only be described as twisted. But he had no alternative. Since he was here, he would make do.

    "Using the Harmony Divine Pce''s slot to attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is clearly unrealistic. I''ll have to see if there''s a way to secretly use their teleportation formation to escape this Extreme Yin Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao mused, his decisions always sharp and resolute, his gaze already set on infiltrating the Harmony Divine Pce.

    He nced at an object in his hand, a ring shaped by the body of a woman with the tail of a serpent, her supple body arched to form a circle, her mouth gently biting her own tail.

    "The Harmony Ring?" Yun Xiao muttered as he pinched it, finding the artifact exceedingly hard and resistant to damage.

    "This could be the key to unlocking the Harmony Divine Pce," he whispered under his breath.

    "The question is how to use it?" The War Princess tucked her long hair behind her ears and leaned in slightly to ask.

    Yun Xiao gave her a look and said, "Of course, you take the lead. You use it."

    The War Princess clicked her tongue and said, "You want me to stick my neck out and take the brunt for you?"

    "Isn''t that what you suggested?" Yun Xiao countered."I meant don''t just drain my blood whenever; at least give me some room to maneuver," the War Princess huffed.

    "Well, now you have your space. Take it or leave it, otherwise just be a dried-up corpse," Yun Xiao said ruthlessly.

    "Don''t, just don''t." The War Princess bit her lip, took the Harmony Ring, and with a slight flick, it was on her finger.

    The ring glowed with a cold light, radiating an ancient, mysterious, solemn, and untouchable aura.

    With the Harmony Ring on, even the War Princess'' presence became more profound.

    "From today, I''ve got your back," she dered with newfound courage, beginning to show off.

    Yun Xiao chuckled. "You''re just spearheading this, don''t get carried away."

    "Hmph." The War Princess nced down at him, then couldn''t help butugh. "What about you? Really content to hide behind me, ying the little Yun?"

    "That''s called lying low," Yun Xiao said.

    The War Princess rolled her eyes. She thought for a moment, then said, "This method is wed. That woman earlier, she picked up on your... scent quite quickly."

    Yun Xiao, somewhat embarrassed, replied, "I just dealt with that; a bit of smell is normal. It''s no problem."

    "You can also stash them away somewhere else?" the War Princess asked, astonished.

    She still hadn''t figured out how a Heavenly Monarch could store away their cock and eggs in the first ce.

    "What? No. Just watch." Yun Xiao touched the center of his forehead, drawing forth the Prison Warden Sigil, then tugged it towards his trousers. A violet light quickly merged into it and faded away.

    "Smell it now, is it still obvious?" Yun Xiao asked, dead serious.

    "Smell your own head!" The War Princess hastily retreated, covering her delicate nose, fearing he would press her down to sniff it.

    "It should be undetectable now," Yun Xiao stated, his attention wholly fixed on resolving the matter.

    The War Princess slowly released her nose, giving him a peculiar look. "Your Life Sigil is rather strange, looking so fierce yet essentially so pure and solemn. Looking at it, it really does match you, like a little Yun Xiao..."

    "Stop fanning the mes," Yun Xiao responded irritably.

    "That''s called provoking the fire," the War Princess corrected.

    "Same difference. Don''t push your luck; if you irritate me, you''ll be the one to suffer," Yun Xiao warned.

    "Pfft." The War Princess was getting to know his true nature. To his own people, he was blunt but kind-hearted; to his enemies, he was the exact opposite, quick to strike at the slightest disagreement.

    And so, the n was set. The War Princess would wear the Harmony Ring, and Yun Xiao would temporarily disguise himself as her ve.

    As long as the Prison Warden Sigil provided cover, unless Yun Xiao openly revealed his <em>tools</em>, no one would go out of their way to check.

    After all, in this world, surviving chickens were a rare breed.

    "Let''s stick to this for now, y it by ear, and take any opportunity to get out of this ursed ce as soon as possible," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "You''re that scared of this ce? I think it''s quite nice here, utterly beautiful everywhere," the War Princess teased, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

    Yun Xiao ignored her, still busy clearing up the remnants left by that goose-yellow girl, which included several tomes with extensive details on the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "It seems this girl nned to use the Harmony Ring to enter the Harmony Divine Pce, so she studied it extensively."

    For Yun Xiao, these tomes were a timely aid.

    "By the way, what about these four?" The War Princess pointed to the four miserable young men still kneeling in the distance.

    "Sigh." As a man himself, Yun Xiao could easily empathize with them. It was truly pitiful! He approached them again and said, "Brothers, you''re free to go."

    "Go... but where?" the eldest of the young men asked from the ground, his voice thick with sorrow as tears fell.

    "Is there really nowhere left in this vast world?" Yun Xiao asked softly.

    All four shook their heads.

    "In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, ves have masters. Those without masters, moving alone, are like money running on the road¡ªeither they are robbed or killed. They have no way to enter cities or celestial ruins; they essentially have no human rights," the youth said bitterly.

    "Is it really that terrible?" Yun Xiao remarked, observing their dim expressions, feeling it was indeed too much.

    He nced back at the War Princess and said, "It''s a pity, we can barely protect ourselves, let alone take you with us."

    "Big brother, don''t joke. You''re carrying powerful weapons. If we were to follow you and were discovered, it''d be harder than death itself," the youth quickly refused.

    Yun Xiao knew well that in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, there were countless others with fates like these youths. How many could he actually save?

    "Just go. We''ve epted our fate long ago. We might not live long, but hiding here and there, we might just make it past 30 years old¡ªthat would be a win," the youths forced smiles, trying to be optimistic.

    "Why is making it past 30 years old a win?" Yun Xiao asked.

    The youth sighed. "The Harmony Divine Pce despises men. Those under 30 years old serve as celestial ves, handling menial tasks. Any hint of middle age, and we''re discarded for furnace duty in medicine making. The slow burning agony is terrifying just to think about; many of us consider ending it early."

    His tone was only slightly regretful. But Yun Xiao understood that these matters had likely yed over in their minds 1,000,000 times, which exined the numbness in their voices.

    It wasn''t that they didn''t feel pain, but that they were numb to it.

    "Is it really that extreme? It seems unnecessary..." Yun Xiao shook his head.

    "Who knows? I only learned the truth after arriving here. The celestial maidens here have turned our degradation into a form ofpetition,pletely pathological. It all starts with the Harmony Divine Pce..." the second youth said nkly.

    "Stop, don''t say anymore," the first youth hastily interjected in fear.

    "With such inhumane practices, does no one intervene?" Yun Xiao said, at a loss for words.

    The youth shook his head and said, "The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is very insr, and outside, they treat the ves well, putting on a very convincing show. Many hear of this ce as a haven of celestial beauties and even vie to be ves."

    "But once they arrive, they realize it''s not paradise but hell."

    Yun Xiao had originally thought the women of this world tedious. But hearing this, he discerned a sickness simr to that of tyrants¡ªa pathology that had devastatingly harmed a whole group, leaving these innocent boys to live in a sea of despair without hope.

    From their dim eyes, it was evident¡ªthey were truly frightened and numb, like the walking dead, their eyes devoid of any light. And the arrogance of the goose-yellow girl still haunted his mind, stubbornly lingering.

    "What, thinking of leading them in a rebellion to overthrow the Harmony Divine Pce?" the War Princess asked.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Don''t you think it''s utterly unjust?" Yun Xiao turned to ask her.

    "It is unjust, but weren''t you in a hurry to find your senior sister?" the War Princess said.

    "..." Yun Xiao pursed his lips. Indeed, though his heart stirred at the sight of injustice, it seemed he was spread too thin.

    "Besides, in this world, there''s injustice everywhere unseen by you. Can you really address it all?" the War Princess said.

    She too was earnestly pondering this issue.

    "A true man, upon seeing injustice, should draw his sword to aid," Yun Xiao dered solemnly. "Having seen and heard this, no amount of unseen injustices can justify ignoring the cruelty before me. If I cannot be moved by the injustice I witness, how can I dream of a better world?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 759: All Beings Suffer

    "So, you''re still nning to intervene?" the War Princess asked with a hint of surprise.

    Yun Xiao took a slow breath and replied, "We''ll cross that bridge when wee to it. Right now, without any real power, talking doesn''t make much difference. Let''s move forward a bit and see. Perhaps what I wish to do and what must be done won''t necessarily conflict."

    Her eyes shimmering unusually, the War Princess flicked her tongue yfully and said, "It''s just like you, always with a n. When ites down to it, it¡¯s just your male ego, unable to stand seeing your brothers mistreated."

    Yun Xiao''s expression turned stern, his voice calm, "Is it male ego? Then consider this¡ªif this were a man''s world and they treated all women ves as they do those four, with you Yin Devils suffering most from such torment, what would you think?"

    The War Princess faltered, her eyes reddening slightly, struggling for breath. She merely thought about it, and that image enraged her.

    "So, you see, perspective matters," Yun Xiao said.

    "Oh!" The girl was stubborn but clearly persuaded.

    And those four young men, they listened dumbfounded to their conversation, clueless about what grand tales were being spun...

    This was the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, a purgatory for men that hadsted in the Samsara Gxy for countless years! Without experiencing it, no one knew this was a ce where tyrannical women ran wild!There was no change.

    "H-hey, can we¡­ may we leave?" they asked tremulously, standing up weakly.

    "You can go," Yun Xiao said.

    "Thank you!" They bowed repeatedly.

    "Don¡¯t tell anyone you saw me," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Understood! If we did, it would cause a sensation, then we''d be put to the me, best keep quiet and hidden to survive¡­" the lead youth said.

    Indeed, the matter was too significant. And they were too insignificant! After speaking, they habitually bowed and crept backward, young men of fine appearance reduced to cowering shrimps, their backs never to straighten again.

    They were but a microcosm of the countless male ves in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. This was a world where being male was a sin!

    "Wait!" The lead youth suddenly turned back, his voice trembling, "Please, you must leave quickly. Our former master sent out three flying talismans, revealing your crimes. Once it spreads, this whole area will surely be ttened."

    "Is it really so exaggerated?" Yun Xiao said, incredulous.

    "It''s even more exaggerated than you can imagine," the leading youth exined. "They see it as something evil, unclean. Not only can''t they bear to look at it, but even getting close might taint them, corrupt their moral fiber. Whenever they leave the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, they are protected by an immortal formation..."

    Clearly, the four youths must have realized by now that Yun Xiao and the War Princess were not from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, but wanderers who had stumbled into this domain.

    "Alright. Thank you." Yun Xiao paused, then asked, "Could you guess to whom she might send those three flying talismans?"

    The youths exchanged nces and chorused, "It must be her three senior sisters¡ªall Immortals from the Harmony Divine Pce."

    Their certainty left no room for doubt. To that goose-yellow dressed girl, Yun Xiao was an unexpected boon. Except for her own family, she would likely share her secret with no one else.

    "Do you know their names?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    After a moment, they answered, "Yan Xunfeng, Yan Feixue, and Yan Qingyuan."

    "Thank you! Should we meet again, I hope it will be in peace," Yun Xiao bowed.

    "Until next time..."

    The four youths mimicked his gesture. Their dim eyes, filled with envy and unsaid words, gazed at Yun Xiao¡ªlike a dream standing before them.

    However, they had long since lost the courage to reach out. The cruelty of life had destroyed everything for them, including their ability to touch beauty or dream.

    In this life, they wished only to shrink into the abyss, silently awaiting the end of their days, forever hiding, never again raising their heads, never wanting anyone to see their faces...

    "Big brother, may I know your name?" The lead youth finally turned back, timidly facing the perfect vision of the youth in white.

    "I am Yun Xiao," he responded, looking back at them. "And you?"

    "We were kidnapped and sold here at birth; we have no names. My master calls me First Mutt," said the lead youth.

    "I''m Second Mutt."

    "Third Mutt."

    "Fourth Mutt."

    "..." Even the War Princess, previously detached, felt a hint of tears in her eyes.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Sometimes, the disparity in life was just too vast. Although the parties stood facing each other, they were worlds apart.

    "It''s been an honor," Yun Xiao bowed. "Should fate allow us to meet again, I hope you have names of your own choosing."

    The four paused, startled. Names of their own choosing? Such a simple thing, yet for them, it seemed impossibly distant.

    They offered a shy smile, then silently turned and supported each other, stepping away across the deep, powdery snow.

    The air hummed, and the sky filled with dancing snowkes, quickly obscuring them from view.

    "How pitiful..." the War Princess sobbed, her heart aching.

    Yun Xiao gazed into the vast, snowy expanse, lost in thought. "All beings suffer, be it in the mortal realms or these supreme celestial realms. There''s no righteousness in the paths trodden, chaos reigns everywhere. Who is responsible for all this? Why shouldn''t life inherently hold dignity? Who upholds the fundamentalws for these beings?"

    "It''s because of your death, bro," Blue Star suddenly said.

    "Those six ancestral dogs are useless; they have no principles! It must be you; only you truly loved the Dao Realm because it was your favorite creation¡ªyour life!" Red Moon mored.

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao couldn''t tell if it was true. But his heart remained steadfast; he couldn''t ignore injustices. He epted a world wherepetition and death were inevitable¡ªbut wasn''t there a supremew to uphold the basics? Like the karma people spoke of? Or the divine presence three feet above one''s head?

    The All-Life Devouring Gu had existed for so long, yet it took Yun Xiao to bring about real retribution. And where were the divine overseers for everyone in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm?

    Did cultivators still hold any reverence on their path to ascension? Where was the guardian of these ethical boundaries? Was it the Creator Immortal? He didn''t know. But he knew this: with his talents and abilities, he had a responsibility. Otherwise, why would heaven have revived him?

    There had to be something he was meant to do¡­ And all this might not even conflict with his journey.

    "Let''s go."

    With the flying talismans sent, it was clear they could not linger here any longer.

    Yun Xiao and the War Princess sped away, following the path the goose-yellow girl had taken before them. It was clear that the Harmony Divine Pcey ahead on this very road.

    "The world would be better off more harmonious," the War Princess suddenly said, feeling uneasy in the wind. "Too much chaos always makes things unbearable."

    "So, have you found a purpose in your life?" Yun Xiao asked, his voice cutting through the howling wind.

    "Not really," she replied.

    "Then why speak at all?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "But," the War Princess said, puffing up, "Can''t I adopt your goals as my own?"

    Her words made Yun Xiao pause. To adopt the meaning of someone else''s life as one¡¯s own required a deep belief in that person, a willingness to follow them unto death.

    Did she really hold him in such high regard? Yun Xiao knew it was easy to kill a person but far harder to earn such deep recognition.

    "I guess I''m quite fortunate," Yun Xiao suddenly said with a light chuckle.

    "Indeed, you are incredibly lucky to have a celestial maiden like me protecting you," the War Princess quipped.

    "Enough with the <em>celestial maiden</em> talk. The term sounds more grating than devil woman right now," Yun Xiao said.

    "True." She nodded quietly.

    Together, they traversed the snowy woods, drifting through the endless storm.

    Suddenly, the War Princess stopped, her gaze shifting to the side, her eyes deepening. "The smell of blood."

    "Isn''t that normal?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Shaking her head with a flicker of excitement, she said, "An intense, heavy blood scent. Enough to fill me up!"

 Chapter 760: Blue Crystal Serpent

    Yun Xiao caught the scent too. It was something that even the Mortal Dust Devil Blood took note of. Surely, it wasn''t ordinary blood.

    This was likely the blood of a high ranking Immortal spirit. Even a single drop could surpass the effects of the Blood Devil Ruins.

    "As expected of a world 1,000 times the size of the Great Dao Celestial Realm, opportunities abound everywhere," Yun Xiao remarked.

    ¡°Shall we go?¡± the War Princess asked, a hint of nervousness in her voice.

    The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was fraught with danger, and being new to it, she dared not be reckless.

    ¡°Of course, we go!¡± Without a moment''s hesitation, Yun Xiao stepped ahead, gliding like a swallow through the sky of pink-white snow, weaving through the forest, drawn by the scent of blood.

    After cultivating the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, the War Princess had be like a deep-sea shark, highly sensitive to the smell of blood.

    The source of the blood scent was, in fact, quite distant!

    Fortunately, the world was vast enough, an endless expanse of white, with pink-white trees thick on the ground and people flitting about like specks of dust, hardly noticeable.After racing through the snow for a long time, Yun Xiao finally spotted a pale abyss ahead!

    ¡°It''s just below,¡± he whispered, halting his steps.

    To the War Princess, the ravine was visibly swirling with a thick mist of blood.

    ¡°There¡¯s a scent of beasts, but it seems¡­ dead?¡± The War Princess turned to Yun Xiao.

    ¡°I¡¯ll send my spirit ahead to scout.¡± Settling into a meditative pose, Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit left his body, taking his Heaven Burial Sword Soul with him, plunging towards the abyss below.

    This method of scouting was safe unless he encountered a powerful spirit creature or an Anima Immortal, though the chances were slim.

    With the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit attached to the sword, the abyss revealed its secrets to him.

    Before him stretched a vast array of strangely shaped ice crystals, intermingled with pink and white hues, and stctite-like icicles, as well as many deep holes from which a deep wind and bursts of cold air emanated.

    The deeper he went, the colder it became, causing even the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to crackle with the cold, affecting its Sword Prisons.

    ¡°This drop of blood¡­¡±

    On some of the ice crystals, Yun Xiao found traces of blood.

    It was ice-blue blood, clinging to the crystals and emitting a pearly glow. Despite the bloodiness, it was oddly pleasant to smell.

    ¡°It seems there¡¯s something special coagted in the blood.¡±

    For a moment, Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t quite say what it was. The presence of the blood meant they were getting closer to their target¡­n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The three-inch Flying Sword delved deeper, the traces of blood growing more plentiful beneath their feet, pooling in patches of blue, solidified yet fragrant.

    ¡°Here!¡±

    The Flying Sword turned sharply, and before themy ake shimmering like a sea of blue phosphorescence!

    At first nce, it was ake, but a second look revealed the truth: it was a pool of blood.

    For within this pool of blue blood,y a corpse¡ªan ice-blue serpent, about a foot thick and 60 feet long, truly a colossal creature.

    Its scales were heart-shaped, embedded with tiny blue diamonds, and it bore a pair of horns, diamond-blue, turning the serpent''s corpse into a piece of art, stunningly beautiful.

    Its body bore many sword wounds; the blue crystallineke was formed from its blood.

    ¡°No demon energy, not a demon, but a beast without awakened intelligence,¡± Yun Xiao deduced immediately.

    Not all beasts aspired to be demons¡ªdemons generally being malevolent creatures that gained intelligence but might lose some innate gifts.

    Some beasts, especially auspicious ones, retained their animal forms, silently cultivating, hopeful of one day transforming into human form, possessing profound wisdom.

    Creatures like the Nian and the Yaksha Ancestor were of this kind.

    ¡°It is indeed dead," Yun Xiao remarked. He could only imagine how much stronger it would be if it were alive.

    His Flying Sword circled the icy blueke, scouting the surroundings to ensure no danger lurked, then he signaled the War Princess, ¡°Go in quickly, absorb the blood, and leave as soon as you can.¡±

    ¡°So urgent?¡± the War Princess asked.

    ¡°It just died; it might attract other dangers,¡± Yun Xiao exined.

    With that, his spirit and Flying Sword returned, widening their defensive perimeter to escort the War Princess.

    Without further question, the War Princess transformed into a shadowy blood dragon, diving into the pale abyss, crossing paths with Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword. She navigated through the ice crystals and caverns, arriving at the blueke.

    ¡°What kind of beast was this, to bleed such beautiful blood?¡± the War Princess marveled.

    ¡°Unknown. Hurry,¡± the Mortal Dust Devil within her urged.

    ¡°Impatient.¡± With a huff, the War Princess leapt into the icy blueke. Her snow-white skin instantly frosted over with ice crystals, giving her an almost ice princess-like appearance.

    However, whether tainted blood or crystal blue, in the face of the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, it was all <em>delicious</em>. As Yun Xiao had instructed, she didn¡¯t rush to assimte it but sucked the icy blue blood into her body, first gathering it within the Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    When the ice-blue blood mingled with the Mortal Dust Devil Blood in her veins, it was like a little blue snake meeting an ancient dragon¡ªimmediately softened, subdued, and willingly controlled.

    It was the oppression of blood hierarchy!

    ¡°Have you noticed that there seems to be a special significance within this blue blood?¡± the War Princess asked, feeling the oddity as she began to absorb.

    ¡°Indeed.¡± Yun Xiao, whose Mortal Dust Devil Blood coursed through her heart, sensed it too.

    ¡°We¡¯ll ponder it more when we refine itter.¡±

    With that said, the War Princess didn''t dwell on it and continued to drink deeply. As she consumed, she observed the blue crystal serpent.

    ¡°Who would have thought a snake could be so beautiful?¡±

    Such creatures typically exuded a sense of fear, hardly ever thought of as beautiful.

    ¡°All its essence seems concentrated in its blood. As it bleeds out, its flesh and bones slowly crystallize, eventually turningpletely to ice,¡± she exined.

    ¡°Oh? And here I thought after you drained it, we might scavenge it again. Guess not,¡± Yun Xiao remarked offhandedly.

    ¡°But I''ve discovered something interesting!¡± the War Princess suddenly eximed.

    ¡°Go on.¡±

    ¡°This snake has six hearts,¡± she revealed.

    ¡°Six?¡±

    That was indeed rare.

    Normally, no matter the size of the beast, one heart was sufficient.

    ¡°Is there any special use for them?¡± Yun Xiao inquired.

    ¡°They¡¯ve turned to crystal; I can¡¯t discern anything,¡± the War Princess said earnestly.

    ¡°Then keep draining it.¡±

    ¡°Understood! It¡¯s an easy task¡­¡± She was confident. However, as time passed, her pretty face grew increasingly tense.

    With the rising quantity of icy blue blood in her system¡ªeventually exceeding her own voluminous blood supply by a hundredfold¡ªthe situation subtly shifted. The icy blue blood surged through her, nearly freezing her into a statue, her whole body frosted, even her hair and eyes tinted blue¡­ she looked more like an ice queen now.

    ¡°So cold, so cold!¡± She shivered, her fiery hot body seeming to have been sealed in ice.

    ¡°Finish absorbing, then leave,¡± the Mortal Dust Devil Seed within hermanded.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t youing to get me?¡± the War Princess shivered violently, her voice echoing coldly.

    "Fine then." Yun Xiao had no choice but to stop keeping watch and go down to meet her himself.

    Upon meeting, he saw that the girl had grownrger, her body somewhat bloated, her arms and legs thickened, as if she were embracing two blue iron pots.

    "Am I ugly now?" the War Princess said, nearly in tears.

    "Yes, you''ve turned into a fat pig." Yun Xiaoughed.

    The War Princess, furious, snapped back, "I wantedfort, not insults!"

    "Alright, fatty." Yun Xiao still chuckled, but he approached and turned to hoist the oversized ice princess onto his back, his primordial yang void celestial power at least helping to melt some of the ice.

    "We''ll find a safe ce to refine itter," Yun Xiaoforted her.

    "I suppose you have at least a shred of decency," the War Princess huffed, clutching his neck.

    ¡°It hurts with your frozen cones poking my back like that." Yun Xiao, carrying her up from the abyss, couldn''t help butin.

    "What did you say?" the War Princess gritted out right by his ear.

    "Frozen cow," Yun Xiao said.

    "Ugh, I¡¯ll crush you to death!" the War Princess grumbled.

    Yun Xiao paused, then smiled wryly to himself. "She''s quite adorable, actually."

    Despite his teasing, he didn¡¯t slow down, quickly ascending from the abyss.

    "Hmm?" Just as Yun Xiao was about to speak, he turned his head back, only to see the northern sky swirling with snow, a storm in chaos and a formidable overwhelming pressure; clearly someone was heading this way.

    "Time to go." Yun Xiao''s gaze turned cold, his steps quickened, and he slipped into the snowstorm and quietly departed, entering a vast range of snow-covered mountains.

    This range was engulfed in more snow, the air filled with pink icy fog.

    "Someone''sing?" the War Princess whispered.

    "Mhm." Yun Xiao nodded, silent, his head down as he hurried along.

    After covering enough distance, he ascended a towering ancient tree, standing amid its branches, looking back towards the pale abyss they had left.

    From this distance, the view was unclear, but faintly, he could see a group of people appearing there!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Am I ugly now?" the War Princess said, nearly in tears.

    "Yes, you''ve turned into a fat pig." Yun Xiaoughed.</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 761: Taiji Spirit Plane!

    At the forefront, a woman in a ck dress stood out, tall and exquisite. From a great distance, Yun Xiao could feel a chilling malevolence radiating from her. Though a woman, she exuded an aura akin to that of the Grim Reaper.

    Before her gathered a flock of young maidens, like a collection of singing birds, all youthful in appearance. They hade from all corners, searching the pale abyss, evidently in pursuit of the same target¡ªthe ice-blue serpent. But now, they had found only a sculpture of ice, and the tension among them was palpable.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, the Six-Hearted Serpent died down there," the young maidens reported, their voices trembling with fear, "but, but... its Divine Spring Blood is gone!"

    "How? Weren''t you all keeping an eye on it? Yet, someone still beat you to it? What are you all good for!?" the woman in the ck dress scolded sharply, her voice piercing the air and stinging Yun Xiao¡¯s ears.

    It appeared this woman in the ck dress was also surnamed Zhao. There were likely many Zhaos in this world, but the one Yun Xiao could not forget was only her.

    "Senior Sister, it''s not our fault, after all, even wounded, a Six-Hearted Serpent is hard to deal with," another young maiden stammered in defense.

    "I don¡¯t care! Without the Divine Spring Blood, you''ll repay the debt with your own blood!" The woman in the ck dress'' face turned cold, and her murderous intent surged as a ck Sword Soul appeared in her hand. Before anyone could take a proper look, she swept it across, unleashing a sh of sword light.

    With a single sh, before the dozen young maidens could even scream, they were severed in half, their bodies split into over thirty pieces scattering in the air.

    "No, please no!"Their spirits screamed tragically as the woman in the ck dress produced a ck bell, absorbing their spirits into it.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>She casually shook the ck bell, igniting ck mes within, the screams inside growing even more piercing.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>The woman in the ck dress then swept her cold gaze around, snarling fiercely, "Let me find out who took my Divine Spring Blood, and I, Zhao Menglin, will tear them to pieces!"

    Her deration shook the mountains, and even the tree leaves in Yun Xiao¡¯s vicinity began to fall like rain.

    Luckily, the woman in the ck dress had not spotted them; instead, she mistook the direction and moved farther away from where Yun Xiao and the War Princess were hiding.

    "This woman is truly terrifying," the War Princess murmured with a shudder. "One setback, and she ughters all her own disciples."

    Fortunately, Yun Xiao was cautious, for a direct confrontation would have been difficult to manage.

    "She does remind me of something," Yun Xiao mused.

    ¡°What?¡± Yun Xiao mused.

    ¡°Back in my Cloud Nation, someone once hypothesized that if only women were left in the world, would the world be kinder, more cooperative, gentler, and harmonious?¡±

    ¡°Why even consider such a hypothesis?¡± the War Princess asked.

    ¡°They argued that men are naturallybative and that wars and disasters are often their doing,¡± Yun Xiao exined.

    ¡°And what was the consensus? Did they think a world without men would be more harmonious?¡± the War Princess asked with curiosity.

    ¡°Most in the Cloud Nation thought it quite likely that the world would indeed be more harmonious. I myself thought so at the time,¡± Yun Xiao admitted with a ruefulugh.

    ¡°And now?¡±

    ¡°This Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is the very answer to that hypothesis,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    Indeed, this world bore no roles for men.

    ¡°Then let¡¯s see how it unfolds; perhaps what you¡¯ve seen is merely an exception,¡± the War Princess suggested.

    ¡°Possibly.¡± Yun Xiao nodded, ¡°But I¡¯vee to believe that human nature transcends gender. Greed, love, cruelty, and gentleness are not confined to one sex. The presence of both sexes adds something to the world¡ªlove. A world without love, regardless of gender, will find something else to fill the void, likely not another form of love.¡±

    ¡°What do you think it is?¡± the War Princess asked.

    Yun Xiao pondered for a moment and replied, ¡°In a world that doesn¡¯t need to attract the opposite sex, people might focus more onpetition and conflict. Swords then be a source of security. So, what fills the void left by love is likely killing.¡±

    ¡°That terrifying, huh¡­¡± the War Princess was taken aback.

    Following Yun Xiao, she too was observing humanity and the trials of life.

    ¡°Love, friendship, and kinship are the glimmers of beauty in the world. The more they abound, the more harmonious the world bes¡ªnot based on gender,¡± Yun Xiao earnestly said.

    ¡°Is that your excuse for being a womanizer? Adding a bit more love to the world? How noble of you,¡± the War Princess mocked with a scoff.

    Just as Yun Xiao was feeling moved, her jab almost made him bite his tongue.

    ¡°Guess I''m just preaching to a wall!¡± Yun Xiao red at her, then scooped her up in his arms and continued towards the distant horizon.

    ¡°Why not carry me on your back, so I can keep you under my thumb?¡± the War Princess taunted.

    ¡°Keep boasting now, but once you melt, I''ll pinch you to death!¡± Yun Xiao retorted through gritted teeth.

    Knowing he meant what he said, the War Princess immediately recoiled, sticking out her tongue, ¡°Alright, don¡¯t be mad. I''m just teasing you. Oh High Immortal Yun, have a big heart, don¡¯t stoop so low as to argue with a little devil girl, will you?¡±

    Yun Xiao ignored her. Before long, they reached another icy region and found a deep cave, where he finally set the War Princess down.

    "Should I start refining the blood?" the War Princess asked.

    "I''ll refine the blood for you; you head back into the Life Gate with your spirit and see if there''s a way to break through that Taiji Gate," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "Alright..." The War Princess knew that Yun Xiao intended for her to attempt to break through to the Fourth Dao Tribtion with the icy blue blood. This would certainly make their quest to find an exit at the Harmony Divine Pce more feasible.

    She felt immense pressure.

    "By the way, when we change locations, which Life Gate will we enter?" the War Princess asked.

    "We''ll know once we enter."

    Moon Fairy had reached the Six Paths of Reincarnation, but there hadn''t been time for his spirit to enter the Gates of Life and Death.

    "Okay." The War Princess was obedient when it came to cultivation. She settled herself, her spirit ascending as the Gate of Death appeared in the sky.

    "The Gates of Life and Death here are surely different."

    Yun Xiao concluded this because the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit saw that the Gate of Death was made up of pinkish-whiteponents.

    It bore the distinctive mark of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    "Could it be that every Celestial Sourcecore, regardless of its size, possesses its own Gates of Life and Death?"

    <em>BOOM! </em>While pondering, the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit plunged into the Gate of Death.

    <em>HUM!</em> Before the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, a pinkish-white fog of death permeated the air.

    As the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit adjusted, numerous morous voices echoed around.

    "Senior Sister Chen, long time no see."

    "Did you get a Harmony ring?"

    "Damn it, that wretched Yen Ruoxuan stole it!"

    Looking around, the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit saw spirits everywhere within the fog.

    The Mortal Dust Devil Spirit moved forward for a time and found that this spiritual ne of death had no end!

    "Indeed, the Gates of Life and Death in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm are mostly popted by female spirits..."

    There were a few male spirits, but they were mostly submissive.

    Most of the powerful spirits were just passing through the Gate of Death, heading towards the Gate of Life.

    Silently, the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit moved through the Gate of Life and discovered that this gate was also boundless, filled everywhere with spirits!

    The spirits of the Third Dao Tribtion stayed in the Gates of Life and Death, while the spirits of the Fourth Dao Tribtion rushed toward the swirling Taiji Gate.

    "The Taiji Spirit ne''s been buzzingtely, everyone''s talking about the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects!"

    "Mom, when is the selection for the Harmony Divine Pce spots?"

    "In a couple of days."

    "I want to go..."

    "Go, your head! First, break through to the Fourth Dao Tribtion. Without that, you can''t even enter the Harmony Divine Pce!"

    "I¡¯m breaking into the Taiji Spirit ne today!"

    Before the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, a mother and daughter conversed¡ªthe daughter likely no older than 13 years old, yet already aiming to tackle the Fourth Dao Tribtion.

    "So many prodigies here, what do you make of it?" the War Princess asked.

    Yun Xiao chuckled, then replied, "I''ve fed you Origin Orbs and nearly refined all that serpent''s blood into Mortal Dust Devil Blood. Try breaking into the Taiji Spirit ne now."

    "Beyond that gate lies a ce called the Taiji Spirit ne?" the War Princess asked curiously.

    "It¡¯s likely a massive spiritual world that spirits from many celestial realms can reach, and the Gates of Life and Death serve as stations for each of these realms," Yun Xiao exined.

    "That Samsara Gxy sure is fascinating..." the War Princess remarked.

    "The key is whether you can reach the Fourth Dao Tribtion. Did you hear earlier? To enter the Harmony Divine Pce, you need to at least be in the Fourth Dao Tribtion," Yun Xiao pointed out.

    "Got it!" The War Princess felt an odd sensation. She muttered, "Why do I feel like I¡¯m your daughter, being pushed forward by you, hoping I turn out sessful?"

    "You¡¯re thinking too much. You¡¯re at most a pig I¡¯m raising," Yun Xiao joked.

    "You! Ahh!" The War Princess was fuming.

    Her spirit, strengthened by Origin Orbs and absorbing the life mist, had reached the Establishment stage of the Dawn God Realm.

    Now, all that was left was to smash through the gates of the Taiji Spirit ne!

    Channeling all her <em>rage</em> into the dragon horns atop her head, she charged forward like a rhinoceros, teeth gritted.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yun Xiao, I¡¯ll kill you!" She envisioned the gate to the Taiji Spirit ne as Yun Xiao and rammed into it with all her might...

    <em>BOOM! </em>The gate shattered on impact.

 Chapter 762: Harmony City and Calamity Source!

    The War Princess burst through, never imagining her spirit could grow so swiftly.

    The Taiji Gate, once unapproachable, now shattered with a single charge. Just half a day had passed since she reached the Dawn God Realm. She''d broken through five stages almost instantly.

    This was a level that had baffled the likes of the White Emperor for thousands of years¡­

    If it weren''t for all the life-ending crises that Yun Xiao kept facing one after the other, none of the opponents that he had encountered so far would have any right to challenge the Creator Immortal!

    Even the Chaos Soul, with its over 20 year lead, was defeated within the span of a few days!

    At this moment, Yun Xiao''s anticipation and curiosity about what was beyond the Taiji Gate had reached a peak.

    ck and white spirals swirled around the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, the previous discordant noise filling his ears like swarms of flies.

    The words <em>Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects</em> were the most frequent amidst the buzz¡ªa testament to its prominence in the Samsara Gxy.

    ¡°We''re in¡­¡±After passing through the ck and white storm, the blended Mortal Dust Devil Spirit of Yun Xiao and the War Princess gradually made it through to the other side.

    Looking ahead through, a vast world of spirits suddenly unfolded before them...

    Countless twinkling nebe, bunch after bunch, burst forth with colored lights, both far and near, in an endless expanse.

    These nebe seemed to transcend spatial boundaries.

    Right next to the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit was a pale pink neb, bizarre and shimmering, with shadows of other spirits flickering within.

    ¡°Is this the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm within the Taiji Spirit ne?¡± Yun Xiao thought, propelling the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit toward the pink neb.

    The pale light whizzed by as the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit sped on.

    ¡°This Taiji Spirit ne seems vague and mutable in terms of space and distance¡­¡±

    For instance, the pink neb initially appeared small, but as the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit delved into it, the illusory pces andndscapes magnified, stretching infinitely.

    As the Mortal Dust Devil Spiritnded before a grand pce, the world expanded to its fullest, as if the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was replicated one-to-one within the Taiji Spirit ne.

    As the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit retreated, the world shrank ceaselessly until it was no more than a pale pink neb.

    This neb, floating amidst a river of countless others in the Taiji Spirit ne, varied in size from grand to modest. The marvel of spatial distance within the Taiji Spirit ne became clear. Although the Extreme Yin Celestial Realmy far from other Celestial Sourcecores, as the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit moved toward other nebe in this river, Yun Xiao felt as if he were soaring across the cosmos, the wind rushing by.

    Before long, he arrived at a nearby neb.

    Yun Xiao could not gauge how far he actually was from this Celestial Sourcecore in the real world, but as he entered this neb, the space around him stretched endlessly.

    Surrounding him were the spirits of Immortals, both men and women together¡ªa practice notmon in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, clearly indicating that these were spirits from other Celestial Sourcecores.

    "How fascinating," Yun Xiao mused, "a spiritual realm where one''s spirit can roam, where the distances and sizes are mutable, allowing for interactions¡ªand even conflicts¡ªwith beings across the entire Samsara Gxy."

    While not an Anima Immortal, the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit within Yun Xiao was lethally potent.

    After lingering for a while in this otherworldly neb of spirits, Yun Xiao discerned that this was a world called the Northern Sword Star, a realm solely of Sword Cultivators.

    To Yun Xiao''s chagrin, though the Northern Sword Star''s neb was adjacent to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm within the Taiji Spirit ne, its actual counterpart wasn''t even in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, and its physical distance from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was unfathomably vast.

    "So, the Taiji Spirit ne doesn''t correspond directly to the real world."

    Delving deeper into Northern Sword Star, the world expanded vastly. The moment he set foot on its soil, the vast realm filled with countless Sword Cultivators unfolded before him.

    "Damn, how grand would it be to journey in such a world?"

    Yet now, a world full of women presented more dangers.

    Unfazed by the challenges, the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit returned from Northern Sword Star, swiftly nearing the Taiji Gate beside the neb of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    "Is this Taiji Essence?" Yun Xiao sensed a peculiar ck and white mist in this realm. With each breath, his Mortal Dust Devil Spirit inhaled this Taiji Essence.

    This initial encounter with the Taiji Essence significantly transformed the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit, boosting its power considerably.

    The entire Taiji Spirit ne was suffused with this essence.

    Such were the benefits of crossing the Gates of Life and Death.

    "If I''d entered this Taiji Spirit ne back in the Great Dao Celestial Realm, I could indeed interact with the entire Samsara Gxy..."

    Yun Xiao gazed upon the vast river of nebe.

    If not for his eagerness to reach the Harmony Divine Pce, he would have relished exploring more of these diverse nebe of spirits.

    "Next time, we''ll explore properly!" the Mortal Dust Devil Spirit dered as it withdrew from the Taiji Spirit ne, returning to the War Princess.

    With a sigh, the War Princess opened her beautiful eyes, exhaling deeply. "The path of cultivation is intriguing; my body remains here, yet my spirit has traversed countless miles."

    "When my true spirit ventures into the Taiji Spirit ne, it''ll be even more fascinating. I could strike down someone miles away," Yun Xiao added.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Why do you always think of killing?" the princess asked, exasperated.

    "It''s just a metaphor," Yun Xiao replied.

    "And what did the metaphor do to deserve a beating?" she pouted.

    "That joke is colder than the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao shot back, ncing at her before continuing, "Enough ying around, get ready, we''re setting out."

    "Ah? My spirit was just in the Taiji Spirit ne, shouldn''t I just directly cultivate into the Fourth Dao Tribtion?" the War Princess asked.

    "Entering the Taiji Spirit ne with your spirit is just the initial condition for the Fourth Dao Tribtion. However, the core of the Fourth Dao Tribtion''s cultivation is no longer the spirit; you have an even more crucial step ahead," Yun Xiao exined earnestly.

    "What? You mean that halo behind the head? That silly thing that makes you look like you''d died and ascended to heaven" she scoffed.

    "That''s the <em>Corona</em>, an innate ability with tremendous lethal potential and utility. I''ve learned that for humans and devils, the Fourth Dao Tribtion primarily involves cultivating the Corona. Its strength directly determines the peak of the Fourth Dao Tribtion," Yun Xiao exined.

    "How do I condense this Corona then?" she asked, curious.

    "The Fourth Dao Tribtion is a special period, different from the previous three. Each major realmes with trials that forge the Corona. To strengthen it, you need something called a <em>Cmity Source</em>. To form the initial Corona, you also need a Cmity Source," Yun Xiao said.

    "Oh, that sounds quite troublesome!" the War Princess muttered, not fully understanding but figuring she didn¡¯t need to grasp it all, just following along.

    "Below the Harmony Divine Pce, there''s a ce called Harmony City, a hub for cultivators ascending to the pce. They sell Cmity Sources there. We''ll buy one, and you can start your journey through the Fourth Dao Tribtion," Yun Xiao said.

    "How do you know all this?" the War Princess asked, stunned.

    "While we were in the Taiji Spirit ne, I was listening to others. What were you doing?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "I was admiring how beautiful the ce was..." she said defiantly.

    "You¡¯re really incorrigible." Yun Xiao took her arm and pulled her up, then seriously admonished, "Harmony City is bound to be bustling; it''s a mix of all sorts. You''ll need to be sharp and handle things up front."

    "Alright, got it!" Though she felt a bit pressured.

    "Do you really understand?" Yun Xiao doubted.

    "Just need to act the part of ady boss, right? Watch, Little Yun, I''ll make you grovel at my feet, and if you disobey, a p awaits," the War Princess boasted confidently.

    "You can try. I promise you, though; once we''re alone again, I''ll pay you back tenfold," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Fine!" The War Princess huffed and strode forward.

    "You''re going the wrong way; Harmony City is that way," Yun Xiao said, exasperated.

    "Then lead the way! Careful, or I might just sell you to an olddy," she joked,ughing uncontrobly.

    Watching her doubled over withughter, Yun Xiao could only rub his forehead and mutter under his breath, "I''ve really got myself a fool.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 763: Risking it All for Some Oil!

    However, the journey became somewhat lighter with the War Princess'' presence.

    "Men need women, and women need men. Such is the design of the Creator Immortal, etched deep into our bones. Joy, happiness, and fulfillment arise naturally from this truth. Who could abandon the essence to chase after the trivial?"

    What joys of life would one forsake then?

    Yun Xiao and the War Princess bantered andughed together, traversing the icy forests.

    Ahead, a snowy mountain crowned with a majestic city of Immortal paths gleamed like a pearl, waiting for them...

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, the chaos wrought by Zhao Xuanran and the new<em> Six-Eyed Pandemonium</em> was still brewing.

    While on the move, Yun Xiao manipted his body double Moon Fairy, embarking on an adventurous journey!

    "I have my true self advancing steadily while my body double takes risks, striving to flourish swiftly in the Samsara Gxy!"Since this ce was named the Samsara Gxy, then the Six Paths of Reincarnation world would surely be a pivotal nexus.

    To rise here would undoubtedly be of greater significance!

    "The Nine Hells, the Primordial Ruins, even the Celestial Court¡ªthese ces are too small, too confined.

    "This Samsara Gxy is the true vast expanse of the Immortal path, teeming with sects, where countless Immortals and mighty beings emerge one after another!

    "With the talents of a Creator Immortal, I have faced some challenges while dominating in the Celestial Court. In this grand celestial realm, one needs more ability, courage, and resolve to take each step carefully, truly securing a foothold at the pinnacle of this world!"

    The Dao Realm was vast and boundless!

    The worlds Yun Xiao had stepped into before were too small.

    Now, from the Taiji Spirit ne, through the teleportation formation of the Six Paths of Reincarnation, from everything in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm... Yun Xiao could glimpse the immense scope of this celestial world.

    Yun Xiao was a man of intense volition! As a free spirit, he naturally sought a broader world to soar! Between heaven and earth, his heart would also roam freely, and his will boundless! The sky was his to fly and the ocean depths his to explore!

    "To truly soar freely across the cosmos, three things are essential! Strength, strength, and more strength!"

    And so, Yun Xiao acted, under this guiding thought¡ª

    As the Destion Corps passed the Soul Refining Cauldron on its way to the Gate of Reincarnation, Moon Fairy slipped away quietly.

    "Old Kapok, I have something I need to do. Go ahead without me," the trailing Moon Fairy said.

    "You''re in the Third Dao Tribtion. What could you possibly need to do?" Old Kapok was astonished. "Just relieve yourself in mid-air!"

    "No, I must maintain my dignity." Moon Fairy, tired of further discussion, made a hasty retreat, slipping away quietly.

    Seizing the moment when the Soul Refining Skulltopus was absent, he transformed into a beam of white light and plummeted into the depths of the Soul Refining Cauldron.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>The cauldron continued to boil, searing his entire body.

    It was less a cauldron and more an endless celestial furnace.

    Those of insufficient physical strength would be sted into oblivion on the spot.

    "What grade of destion is this?" Moon Fairy wondered.

    It was certainly more formidable than Naraka!

    Moon Fairy tried refining the destion with the Will of Divine Destion, and the results were fiercely effective. His body, hungry and desperate, absorbed the energy ravenously.

    "Why not use the Immortal Asylum to store it first? It''s more efficient," the Nian suggested out of the blue.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Is that possible?" Moon Fairy hadn''t considered this.

    "Weren''t two of the cells emptied? You could fill them up!" the Nian suggested.

    "Yaksha Ancestor, what do you think?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "Why ask his opinion? I''ve told you already, no need for his confirmation!" the Nian said, somewhat exasperated.

    "Because youck credibility," the Yaksha Ancestor chuckled.

    Listening to their conversation, Yun Xiao knew it would work. He pulled out the silver Immortal Asylum and used the two unsealed portals at the top to absorb the destion <em>oil</em> from the Soul Refining Cauldron.

    Without trying, he would never know; upon trying, he was astonished!

    "It really works, and it feels like a bottomless pit?" Moon Fairy eximed in surprise.

    "Nonsense, do you know how vast our bodies once were? Larger than this Samsara Gxy!" the Nian recalled the past with some emotion.

    "A coward always boasts of past bravery," the Yaksha Ancestor remarked dryly.

    "Screw you," the Nian rolled its eyes.

    Moon Fairy''s focus was entirely on the Immortal Asylum; the more he absorbed, the more astounded he felt.

    "Who would have thought this thing could also serve as a spatial artifact? I wonder if it could contain people?" Moon Fairy murmured to himself.

    "Idiot, once someone''s inside, do you think they cane out? Do you think we''ve been idling all these years?" the Nian scolded.

    "So, you''re suggesting you managed to escape because you were sufficiently weakened?" Moon Fairy quipped.

    "Shut your mouth, you impudent brat!" the Nian snapped, clearly irritated.

    "Just a pair of eyes left, and still holding onto your pride? Ridiculous," the Yaksha Ancestor sneered.

    "Why the hell are you always picking on me?" the Nian bellowed, its temper ring.

    "Because I can''t stand you. You make noise upstairs all day long; it''s driving me mad. I dream of killing you every night," the Yaksha Ancestor shot back.

    "Come out and fight me then!"

    "Let''s fight!"

    Meanwhile, Moon Fairy endured the squabble between the eyes above and eyes below while siphoning vast amounts of destion from the Soul Refining Cauldron. He tested releasing the oil, finding it conveniently easy since it was not a living being and thus not bound by the confinements of the Immortal Asylum.

    Time passed!

    Unbeknownst to anyone, the <em>oil level</em> of the Soul Refining Cauldron had significantly dropped!

    By taking this risk, Moon Fairy was amassing capital for his future!

    At this time, amidst the chaos of the Six Paths of Reincarnation, no one noticed the change in the Soul Refining Cauldron...

    And so, Moon Fairy let his guard down. He hesitated, wondering whether to continue? ording to his nature, he would drain it dry, but with each breath, the danger increased substantially!

    "Should be about half left!"

    He eyed the remaining deste oil, struggling to curb his greed.

    "To hell with it, it''s just a body double. Let''s be a bit more greedy!"

    So, he stayed, continuing to use the Immortal Asylum, absorbing frantically.

    Time slipped away unnoticed!

    Suddenly, a lethal danger loomed!

    Moon Fairy, in a sh of panic, withdrew the Immortal Asylum.

    "Adjutant!"

    A thunderous explosion sounded by his ear.

    In the next instant, a dark silhouette rushed before him, seizing Moon Fairy''s neck and yanking him out of the Soul Refining Cauldron!

    Focusing his eyes, he saw a face before him¡ªbeautiful, fierce, andmanding.

    It was the Colonel of the Destion Corps!

    Her robust grip on Moon Fairy, as easy as capturing a child, turned his neck beet red. Her brows were furrowed in anger!

    Moon Fairy knew she was furious. Looking beyond her, he saw a group of Destion Corps soldiers, almost all reveling in his misfortune, sneering at him! He had grown too greedy!

    In a whirlwind of thought, Moon Fairy scrambled for an excuse.

    The Colonel red at him coldly, her voice icy, "I issued a military order to maintain order outside, and here you are, straying from the group, acting on your own initiative?"

    A shiver ran through Moon Fairy!

    She hadn''t noticed the dwindling destion in the Soul Refining Cauldron!

    Her anger was about his going rogue¡­ Realizing this, Moon Fairy quickly responded, "Colonel, I was wrong. I had a re-up of an old ailment, and the pain was unbearable."

    "I think you''re just spoiled and reckless," the Colonel retorted coldly.

    "It''s not¡ª"

    Before Moon Fairy could finish, the Colonel twisted her arm sharply.

    Crack!

    She snapped his neck in an instant!

    "Uh..." Moon Fairy''s eyes bulged as he looked at her.

    Just moments before they had been close, but the moment he crossed her, she broke his neck!

    She was merciless!

    "Little Fox, aside from your good looks, you''re nothing. A fool like you might as well be dead." The Colonel gave him a dismissive nce and tossed him aside.

    She had no patience for fools! No matter how attractive, back in the camp, continued arrogance threatened her authority.

    The military was no ce to challenge a superior!

    The more favored by the higher-ups, the more they must adhere to rules publicly to avoid giving others a handle against them.

    After her remark, she flung Moon Fairy downward!

    Suddenly, as he fell, his neck snapped back into ce, and his blood-red color slowly returned to a pale hue.

    His silver eyes glinted with a ghostly light as he sped his hands in a salute to the Colonel, "You are right to reprimand me, mydy. It won''t happen again."

    The Colonel was stunned. She nced at her palm. A grip that could shatter a divine celestial weapon had left him unharmed?

    She stared at Moon Fairy''s neck, utterly astonished.

    "Colonel, may I still apany you back to assess my demonic talents?" Moon Fairy asked.

    The Colonel gave him a long look, then suddenly turned and said, "Let''s go!"

    Behind her, the Destion Corps were dumbfounded. He was let off, just like that? From their perspective, the Colonel had shown mercy!

    "I don''t ept this!"

    Voices of anger erupted all around.

 Chapter 764: Provoking the Beast! But Whos the Real Beast?

    Dissent rippled through the ranks of the Destion Corps.

    "We serve at themand of our officers, and here stands the Adjutant, defiant of orders, acting on personal whims, a clear breach of militaryw. Harsh punishment is warranted," the towering silver-skinned elephant demon spoke with a chilling calm. His skin gleamed like polished silver, his nose elongated even in human form, and his eyes bore a sinister glint.

    This statement rendered even the Colonel speechless. Had she not been harsh in her discipline? She had, after all, snapped the neck of Moon Fairy.

    In any other case, the body would have dropped into the Soul Refining Cauldron and fried up like chicken. Yet, Moon Fairy was unscathed! What more could she do? Kill him again?

    Aware of the growing discontent within the ranks, the Colonel knew mishandling the situation could undermine her authority.

    Authority was everything to amander. Without it, no one wouldy down their lives for her. She was exasperated! However, she didn''t expect that little fox would step out all of a sudden!

    "Silence!" Moon Fairy''smand echoed past the Colonel, reaching the throng of still ferocious, beastly demons, transformed in shape but not in nature. His shout actually shut them up.

    Everyone froze. How dare this lowly fox, who had risen to the position of adjutant by less savory means, challenge them?n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The silence that followed was profound.In that stunned quiet, Moon Fairy spoke with a serene expression, "The Colonel assigned me a different task. How is that a rogue action?"

    "You lie!" the elephant demon scoffed, his eyes burning as he challenged the Colonel, "We are a fierce and honorable unit, led by you. Why indulge a mere fox?"

    "You doubt him? Then you handle him. That¡¯s the way of the Destion Corps. If you object, prove your point inbat," the Colonel suddenly dered.

    "Really?" The Silver Tusked Elephant lit up at this.

    A respected figure within the Destion Corps and a leading candidate for Adjutant, he sensed an opportunity. He knew the Colonel well¡ªshe never repeated her words of favor.

    As the mighty elephant demon fixed his gaze on Moon Fairy, his voice boomed like a great bell, ¡°You wretched fox, if you im to be male, let your ws do the talking!¡±

    ¡°Do you, a mere herbivore, even possess ws?¡± Moon Fairy retorted with a cold sneer.

    ¡°You are as insignificant as a mosquito, even if you''re a carnivore. A single dropping of mine could feed you for a decade!¡± the Silver Tusked Elephant scoffed.

    ¡°An herbivorous beast, no matter howrge, is just more meat for the taking,¡± Moon Fairy scoffed back.

    His words struck a chord, and a third of the fierce demons within the Destion Corps were hit, their fury ignited on the spot.

    ¡°Kill him!¡±

    Their jealousy, dissatisfaction, and disdain for Moon Fairy erupted collectively.

    In the Beast Path, emotions often surged directly and violently, their beastly natures driving them to follow brutal codes of conduct.

    With a thunderous roar, the Silver Tusked Elephant unleashed a burst of radiant silver light from his body, his humanoid form charging towards Moon Fairy like a towering mountain of silver.

    <em>BOOM! </em>His arm, thick as a tree trunk, swung down in a pure disy of physical force, capable of shattering mountains.

    Moon Fairy, having recently absorbed some destion and advanced to the Establishment Dawn God Realm, knew the strength of his adversary who was in the Fourth Dao Tribtion¡ªa titan in flesh and power!

    But he was no lesser; his body, though notrge, was fortified by the Divine Destion Physique and further strengthened by the bloodlines of the Nian and the Yaksha Ancestor.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In Moon Fairy¡¯s hands, the eighteen-section silver Immortal Asylum appeared!

    Holding the silver staff, he remained still until movement was necessary, and then with a whirl that turned the staff into a bright moon, he struck lightning-fast, smashing it against the Silver Tusked Elephant¡¯s thick arm.

    <em>KLANG! </em>A painful scream escaped the elephant as his arm broke! Though it was flesh, it shattered like a metallic limb, screeching as it fractured.

    With a resounding crash, the burly figure was smashed into the Soul Refining Cauldron, sending a spray of scalding oil skyward.

    ¡°Ah?¡± The disparity in their sizes was immense, and the explosive power of Moon Fairy was fierce, the burst of brute strength from such a supposedly frail fox more akin to that of a cheetah.

    The shouting demons of the Destion Corps were momentarily stunned, their eyes wide in disbelief.

    Even the beautiful Colonel, arms folded across her chest, had a flicker of astonishment dance in her eyes.

    ¡°This fox, a marvel in the sheets, proves just as fierce inbat?¡±

    As this thought crossed her mind, the Soul Refining Cauldron below suddenly exploded. The Silver Tusked Elephant, transformed back to his demon form, roared out of the inferno. His trunk and massive tusks, like pirs of silver, charged towards Moon Fairy.

    ¡°You wretched fox, I''ll grind you to pulp!¡± the Silver Tusked Elephant roared.

    ¡°Grazer, you''re just a moving mountain of meat yourself,¡± Moon Fairy retorted with a cold, mocking smile. His silver hair billowed around him, his body shimmering with a silvery light, transforming midair into a sleek, elegant six-tailed silver fox.

    The fox, though significantly smaller than the elephant, was no less formidable. Unseen by the onlookers, the Immortal Asylum once again split into 18 segments, merging with Moon Fairy''s fangs and ws, morphing him into a saber-toothed fox, its cold light gleaming menacingly.

    ¡°Die!¡± The Silver Tusked Elephant stirred up a silver storm, charging forward.

    ¡°This fox must rely on his agility to contend with the Silver Tusked Elephant¡­¡±

    Just as the Destion Corps settled on this expectation, they were stunned the next instant to see the six-tailed silver fox charging head-on towards the elephant!

    Head to head, in broad and fierce shes, one might mistake him not for a fox, but a tiger! But even a fierce tiger wouldn''t dare meet a giant elephant in a frontal assault, would it?

    <em>BOOM! </em>The two silver forms collided with explosive force!

    <em>BANG! </em>A violent shockwave rippled through, blood and flesh flew at the point of impact, whether it was that of the Silver Tusked Elephant or Moon Fairy, blood sttered everywhere!

    This wasbat in its most primal form!

    Who could have guessed that this Moon Fairy was actually a body double of Yun Xiao, his techniques honed to perfection?

    The Divine Destion Physique and the true self were pr opposites inbat style!

    Under this collision, the fact that Moon Fairy wasn''t blown away was breathtaking!

    In the next moment, his fox form suddenly coiled, his ws slicing through the elephant¡¯s flesh like knives through tofu, the tips of his ws extending, gripping fiercely onto the elephant¡¯s flesh and bones!

    <em>RIP! </em>The six-tailed silver fox surged forward, tearing the scalp of the Silver Tusked Elephant apart and flipping it upwards!

    The elephant¡¯s steaming brain, now exposed, billowed with blood and smoke, a grisly sight before the eyes of the thousands in the Destion Corps!

    With a sh, the fox tore backwards, blood spraying in a bright arc across the battlefield!

    The Silver Tusked Elephant, in agony, screamed with a heart-rending ferocity. With a fierce shake of his trunk, he managed a precise strike that sent Moon Fairy flying!

    Yet, the skin atop his own head and back had been torn away as well, flying off like a blood-soaked carpet, scattering blood all around...

    ¡°What sort of ws are these to be so hard!¡± The Silver Tusked Elephant waspletely bewildered, a fatal shadow enveloping him, his mind nking out.

    ¡°This wretched fox, so vicious?¡±

    The 1,000 demons of the Destion Corps watched, their scalps tingling.

    In the brutal world of beasts, effeminacy was scorned, but recognizing the ferocity hidden beneath the fox¡¯s skin, a deep dread took root.

    ¡°Consider this a mercy,¡± Moon Fairy said, dropping the scalp and hovering in the air, his cold gaze fixed on the Silver Tusked Elephant.

    Now, with no one paying heed to the Soul Refining Cauldron, Moon Fairy worried about the abnormal octopus¡¯ return, making it wise not to linger, having achieved his aim of intimidation.

    But he hadn¡¯t anticipated the Colonel¡¯s penchant for ying with fire. After trying to kill Moon Fairy once already, she had been marked for death by Yun Xiao. This had made her the first woman he had <em>experienced</em> and still sought to kill.

    Even now, the Colonel still hadn''t grasped what kind of danger she was provoking.

    Moon Fairy had already ceased his attack, but she, drawing out her words with a sneer, said, ¡°Is that all? Kill or be killed, that''s the rules of the Destion Corps. Both of you are a disgrace."

    She was stoking the fire.

    And the Silver Tusked Elephant, a creature of violent temper, could not endure such humiliation and was easily provoked!

    Moon Fairy remained still, while the elephant,cking any scalp, let out a roar that formed a sonic storm, sting straight at Moon Fairy, causing his eardrums to bleed!

    ¡°Die! Die!¡± His trunk, like a towering pir, moved with lethal speed.

    Moon Fairy gave him a cold look, suddenly transformed into a silver whirlwind, stepped onto the trunk, opened his mouth, and in an instant tore open the Silver Tusked Elephant¡¯s crown!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a swipe of his fox paw, the skull shattered, the brain matter vibrated explosively, bursting like a smashed watermelon.

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± The blood from the Silver Tusked Elephant¡¯s brain sprayed out, sending a chill through him. In a moment of emptiness, he slumped down, crashing into the Soul Refining Cauldron, and moved no more.

    In his lifetime, filled with fury, roars, pursuits, curses, and ughter, the Six Paths of Reincarnation promised eternal life. Yet, he had lived so long without understanding, arriving in confusion and departing the same way.

    He lived a lonely existence.

    With a buzz, Moon Fairy released his grip, flinging the Silver Tusked Elephant¡¯s crown, which skipped across the surface of the Soul Refining Cauldron like a water scoop, finally spiraling down with the elephant into the cauldron¡¯s oily depths.

    ¡°Brother Silver Tusk!¡±

    As they watched the Silver Tusked Elephant perish, many of hisrades, brothers-in-arms, had eyes red as blood, grieving as if they had lost a part of themselves.

    ¡°To not even kill a mere fox, and to be humiliated in the attempt, shows true ipetence,¡± the Colonel remarked, shaking her head as she eyed the demons of the Destion Corps with a sneer. ¡°All these years with me, and you¡¯ve grown no fangs.¡±

    ¡°Colonel!¡±

    Many of the demons were provoked, steam practically shooting from their nostrils, their voices fiery with rage.

    ¡°I too refuse to ept this, I demand a duel to the death!¡±

    ¡°I reject this despicable fox! I do not ept this!¡±

    ¡°Nor do I!¡±

    In a moment, dozens of furious demons roared, their eyes nearly bleeding with violence written across their faces. Their crimson gaze fixed on Moon Fairy, their looks alone seeming to y him alive.

    ¡°Haven¡¯t I always taught you? If you can''t ept an oue, then fight to change it!¡± the Colonel retorted with a roll of her eyes, revealing the disdainful gaze of a massive bear.

    Her expression was provokingly strong, driving at least 30 demonspletely out of their minds, their eyes zing with uncontrolled fury. They were waiting for just these words from the Colonel!

    ¡°So ruthless? Are you trying to dissect me that thoroughly?¡±

    Yun Xiao understood the Colonel¡¯s mindset; she had recognized Moon Fairy''s exceptional nature. But instead of valuing his talents, her instinct was to dissect himpletely, constantly pressing his limits.

    And now, her pressure had clearly reached a merciless extent.

    ¡°They say men only care about the sex and nothing else afterwards. Isn¡¯t this woman the same?¡±<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 765: Desolate Street!

    Moon Fairy nced back only once at the Colonel, who stood with arms folded, gazing down with a certain yful intrigue in his brow. It was as if she were saying, "Are you capable? Then prove it!"

    Moon Fairy didn''t even have a choice. Before he knew it, 30 ferocious demons from the Destion Corps surrounded him andunched a fierce assault.

    With onest look towards the Colonel, the six-tailed silver fox plunged into the Soul Refining Cauldron.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The brutal demons roared and howled as they pursued!

    The Soul Refining Cauldron sshed with destion oil.

    Inside the cauldron, the oil was too thick to see through, and above, the Colonel and her troops could only see explosions of smoke and bubbles, punctuated by dreadful screams.

    There was no blood in that cauldron, but every so often, chunks of crispy fried corpses surfaced, bereft of any semnce to a fox''s limb.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A fierce battle of roars and life-or-death struggles raged within the cauldron.

    As long as the fight raged on, it meant Moon Fairy was not yet defeated!The eyes of the Destion Corps, initially gleeful, gradually turned silent and suffocated as they fought.

    With each deep-fried nugget that surfaced, their faces grew darker, and as time passed, the faces of the remaining 900 soldiers were pale and drawn.

    "Colonel, did you foresee from the start that this fox would be so ferocious?" a trembling voice asked.

    "What do you think?" The Colonel replied with a faint smile.

    "Your wisdom is unparalleled! Your vision, grand!" some of the troops praised with trembling voices.

    But others warned, "Don¡¯t celebrate too soon. That fox might already be dead, or if not dead, then grievously wounded!"

    The Colonel heard all these remarks as she continued to stand with arms folded amidst swirling mists, unseen by many. Yet her face grew increasingly troubled.

    It was a feeling of being overpowered.

    This fox, whom she had underestimated, was continuously challenging her boundaries with each kill. Her nature was to control everything, but this fox, what was it about this creature?

    "Colonel!"

    After a brief time, the tumult in the cauldron subsided, and a horribly disfigured demon burst forth, his face a picture of misery as it beseeched the Colonel for mercy!

    However, he didn¡¯t even have a chance to cry for help before his body was brutally torn in half!

    With a sshing sound, a silver-haired youth climbed out from the Soul Refining Cauldron, his body smeared with blood. He casually dusted off his hands as if he had done something trivial.

    The most chilling part was his face¡ªhe had six eyes!

    Besides the silver pupils in the middle, there was a pair of blood-red eyes above and a pair of dull yellow eyes below!

    Thebination of six eyes was eerie, cold, brutal, and instilled a deep-seated fear¡­

    ¡°Any more challengers?¡± The silver-haired youth stretched, his joints cracking with the sound that seemed to house the ferocity of tigers and leopards.

    When he spoke those words, the heavens above fell into a dead silence. The reactions of the remaining Destion Corps troops who averted their gazes told the whole story. They were all subdued!

    Seeing this, the youth suddenly shed a sunny smile, revealing harmless little canine teeth, then he turned to the silent Colonel and said, ¡°I miss the Colonel''s snow white bear body and look forward to savoring it again when we return to camp.¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, Harmony City¡­

    ¡°We¡¯ve arrived.¡± Yun Xiao took a deep breath and pushed through a curtain of snow, looking ahead.

    Through the storm and mist ahead, a vast and majestic celestial city emerged, shrouded in swirling snowkes, revealing just the tip of an iceberg. Even just a tip was chillingly cold.

    ¡°You''ve been on edge the whole way here, it was quite frightening,¡± the War Princess said, stepping through the snow to catch up, eyeing Yun Xiao curiously.

    ¡°Moon Fairy just went through a deadly battle. I managed to hold on thanks to our strategic advantage and fought a bloody battle," Yun Xiao exined.

    ¡°I see, I was afraid of disturbing you,¡± the War Princess pursed her lips, then asked, ¡°How did things turn out over there?¡±

    ¡°Wealth is sought in the midst of danger. Although it was risky, the gains were substantial. Moon Fairy is safely back in the camp, and he''s on the verge of a major breakthrough,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°Then we need to pick up the pace here,¡± the War Princess said.

    ¡°Indeed, lead the way, my mistress,¡± Yun Xiao teased.

    After being called mistress, the War Princess stretched, then let out a long yawn and snickered, ¡°What do you call this? Poetic justice? It feels great!¡±

    "Quit your flirting, let''s enter the city," Yun Xiao quipped, giving the War Princess a yful p on her waist, which sent ripples through her frame, showcasing her formidable resilience.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "It''s just the right bounce. That Colonel, she''s a bit too firm," Yun Xiao mused to himself.

    The War Princess hummed a tune and shot him a re, muttering a few curses under her breath.

    Knowing Yun Xiao was in a hurry, she didn''t bother to argue and adjusted her demeanor, heading towards the gates of Harmony City.

    Yun Xiao had already exined to her that in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, they didn''t need to put on much of a show¡ªjust keep a cold, unfriendly face, ignore everyone, and that would be enough to fool the people.

    He bowed his head and followed behind the War Princess. Such a duo was all toomon in Harmony City. A mistress and her ve!

    Yun Xiao nced around with the corner of his eye, noticing that many young women, apanied by their ves, were entering Harmony City, forming a long line at the gate.

    "To enter Harmony City, they even check for the Harmony Ring. Without it, no entry. And the Harmony Divine Pce is right behind this city¡­"

    asionally, Yun Xiao looked up, unable to see the entirety of this towering city swallowed by snow, let alone the even more magnificent Harmony Divine Pce behind it.

    He felt like an ant entering a snowy mountain.

    Fortunately, the young women entering Harmony City were quite aloof. Hardly anyone spoke, and everyone was wary of each other, which, fortunately, spared them a lot of trouble.

    "In this world, beautiful women and pretty girls seem to cost nothing, dazzling to the point of being overwhelming. Look too much, and your eyes start to numb."

    If just the sight outside the city could numb his senses, Yun Xiao could only imagine what it felt like to stay here longer¡­ Everywhere he looked, there were beauties of every shape and size, enough to make dozens of different types.

    However, the beauties of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm generally appeared very cold, with few showing warmth, perhaps rted to the unique circumstances of Harmony City...

    Everyone was cautious, vignt!

    Though the War Princess was a devil, she faced no obstruction and smoothly entered the city, aided by her Harmony Ring.

    "Where to next?" the War Princess whispered as they walked.

    "East, to Harmony Street. It''s lined with many shops owned by those from the Harmony Divine Pce. We just need to buy a suitable source of plunder," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Do we have enough money?" the War Princess asked timidly.

    "I used up all the Divine Imperial Son''s wealth, but that woman we killed earlier had 1,000 Supreme Immortal Jades on her¡ªshould be enough," Yun Xiao said.

    "Right." The War Princess nodded.

    Supreme Immortal Jades were far superior to the True Immortal Jades used in the Celestial Court. They were golden in color and the primary currency in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Yun Xiao and the War Princess kept a low profile as they made their way to Harmony Street.

    The entire street was covered in snow, and the shops on either side were nketed in thickyers of it.

    It was a solemn and cold ce!

    The street was bustling with travelers from various regions, all young women aspiring to enter the Harmony Divine Pce. But because the street was wide, it wasn''t crowded.

    All the women kept to themselves.

    "A world of only women truly is different," Yun Xiao mused. After speaking, he pointed to a shop that resembled a pce of snow, and the War Princess walked in.

    It was even colder inside!

    "What are you buying?"

    A chilling voice cut through the air.

    Yun Xiao looked up slightly and saw a woman in a ck dress lying in the shadows, her skirt split to the waist, revealing long, white legs.

    "Fate indeed." Yun Xiao recognized her. It was Zhao Menglin, the woman who had just in all her junior sisters with a single stroke.

 Chapter 766: An Alley of Illicit Goods!

    It was a coincidence indeed!

    Upon entering, Yun Xiao immediately noticed the carved sign hanging at the door¡ª<em>Menglin Pavilion</em>. He thought little of it then; after all, the name was quitemon.

    It was not as unique as Zhao Xuanran, whose name truly matched his character...

    This woman in the ck dress was certainly a figure from the Harmony Divine Pce. She was powerful and ruthless.

    Now, encountering her within this dark shop felt like confronting a ferocious beast in its cave, her dark Corona adding tremendous pressure.

    Yun Xiao and the War Princess had stolen the Six-Hearted Beast from right under her nose. So, though he felt a slight ripple in his heart, he quickly subdued it and regained hisposure.

    He had advised the War Princess, regardless of whom she met, to keep her pride. Shyness or hesitation would only show ack of lineage, making one easily oppressed.

    So, upon meeting Zhao Menglin, the War Princess did not falter but spoke evenly, ¡°I¡¯ll choose a few Cmity Sources.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Zhao Menglin rose from her recliner and sized up the War Princess.Behind her, Yun Xiao stood in the shadows.

    ¡°What, out of stock?¡± the War Princess asked.

    ¡°Nonono, there are plenty.¡± Zhao Menglin smiled wryly. With that, she gestured towards a dark, icy corridor behind her, saying, ¡°Follow me.¡±

    Her figure was quite fine among humans, pear-shaped, with hips that drew eyes like a pendulum as she moved.

    However,pared to the War Princess, her innate talents were modest at best.

    The War Princess and Yun Xiao followed Zhao Menglin deeper into the chilly corridor.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t spare Zhao Menglin a nce, pleasing the War Princess, who thought to herself, ¡°This fellow still has taste, not swooning at every woman.¡±

    Just then, Zhao Menglin stopped in front of a dimly lit ice room, pointing inside.

    ¡°The Cmity Sources are all in here. Go in and choose; they''re all things I''ve killed myself, stolen, or had left over over the years," she said with a slight lift of her chin, her eyes cold and teasing, her pride deep and chilling, turning her casual words into a daunting revtion.

    Indeed, why would someone from the Harmony Divine Pce run a shop in Harmony City?

    The reason was simple, to dispose of unwanted cultivation resources.

    After advancing in cultivation, unwanted celestial weapons, magic treasures, Cmity Sources, medicinal pills, and demon bones could all be sold outright.

    Indeed, treasures obtained through plunder and pige could be sold openly if one dared face potential retaliation!

    Harmony Street was essentially an alley ofundered goods, officially constructed by the Harmony Divine Pce. Anything could be sold here, as long as one was bold enough to put it up for sale. The consequences, however, were one''s own to bear.

    Those who dared to open shops on Harmony Street generally boasted significant status and identity. This was why the Menglin Pavilion carried a demeanor of shadowy depths and privacy...

    In fact, most shops on Harmony Street shared this aesthetic. Buildings gleaming with opulence often signified ack of worthwhile items.

    These discarded treasures or those gained through violent means often carried the risk of being overlooked, making Harmony Street a treasure trove for cultivators from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm eager for a good find.

    It was said that just the private shops on Harmony Street numbered in the tens of thousands, indicating the scale of this enterprise.

    Zhao Menglin was a woman positioned higher up the food chain in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    So, she carried herself with confidence, her gaze upon the War Princess always tinged with a hint of aggression.

    The ice room held the Cmity Sources the War Princess urgently needed. Standing firm against the oppressive air the shopkeeper exuded, she darted into the dimly lit chamber.

    "Your lowly ve is quite handsome," Zhao Menglin remarked, eyeing Yun Xiao¡¯s profile with a shadowy smile.

    "A pig dressed up is still a pig, isn''t it?" the War Princess replied coolly.

    "True enough," Zhao Menglin chuckled, amused. She seemed a bit tired and said nonchntly, "Look around, pick what you like, and bring it out. Everything is clearly priced, pay at the counter¡ªour reputation is solid, no deceiving young or old."

    With that, she made a motion to leave.

    "Aren¡¯t you afraid I¡¯ll take a bit more than allowed?" the War Princess said tly. The more casual her opponent appeared, the more oppressive she felt.

    Zhao Menglin paused at this, then burst intoughter, her mirth unfurling like a blooming flower.

    "You''d dare?" she challenged with a raised eyebrow.

    "There''s nothing in this world I wouldn¡¯t dare," the War Princess shrugged.

    "Oh really?" Zhao Menglinughed till she was weary, waved her hand dismissively, and said with feigned concern, "Fine then, I¡¯ll wait here. I don''t want a little devil girl to clean out my entire store, now that would be truly frightening."

    The War Princess couldn¡¯t be bothered to respond further, proceeding deeper into the ice chamber with Yun Xiao.

    Once they were inside, Zhao Menglin, slightly bored, pursed her lips and gestured to a shadowy corner.

    A young man with a paleplexion quickly scurried over like a puppy, tongue out, wagging an imaginary tail, and looked up at Zhao Menglin with hopeful eyes.

    "Mistress, yourmands?" he asked eagerly.

    "Close the shop and activate the celestial formation," Zhao Menglin ordered.

    "Yes, master!" The young man moved on all fours, his tongue dangling. He was surprisingly quick, soon disappearing into the darkness.

    Zhao Menglin watched the man and woman in the ice room, unable to help pressing her fingertips to her forehead in frustration. "Another neer to Harmony City, acting all high and mighty to intimidate us. Every year there''s a whole batch of them, making it seem like Harmony City is just overflowing with big shots. It''sughable."

    Her lips, tinted a faint red, curved into a suppressed smile as she murmured, "How many truly influential people are there in Harmony City? Don''t I know them all?"

    She had been mingling here too long, a true survivor, savvy to the ways of the world.

    Her eyes sparkled with scheming as she watched the War Princess. "This little Yin Devil, with a tongue five inches long and supple, could please my master without breaking any prohibitions. Wouldn''t that make her old days a bit brighter? And wouldn¡¯t that mean fewer troubles for me?"

    This was notmon knowledge, but Zhao Menglin was well aware that within the Harmony Divine Pce, a high-ranking figure kept a female Yin Devil. This figure always appeared rosy and vibrant, unlike the others with their cold, unthawed faces.

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, all things male were strictly forbidden, even male mosquitoes. The women here, finding any special way to alleviate their boredom, counted it as a blessing.

    So, from the first nce at the War Princess, Zhao Menglin took a liking to her.

    "Shopkeeper."

    Just then, the War Princess had made her choice and called out to her.

    "Eh!" Zhao Menglin, in high spirits, sauntered into the ice room. "Made your pick?"

    "Just this one." The War Princess held an ice niche, from which cold surged, chilling her fingertips. Within it, a mass of red, like a living thing struggling to break free, thumped audibly.

    "Eight hundred Supreme Immortal Jades?" the War Princess asked, ncing at the tag.

    "Correct," Zhao Menglin replied with a smile.

    "Any chance of a discount?" the War Princess asked with a raised eyebrow.

    "Not a chance in hell. You won''t get it for one jade less," Zhao Menglin said, arms crossed, her smile persisting.

    "How about throwing in something extra?" the War Princess said, ncing at the other ice chambers, "You''ve got plenty of good stuff here, right?"

    "No extras," Zhao Menglin dered.

    "Then no deal. It¡¯s boring," the War Princess said, preparing to set down the ice niche.

    "Wait, I suppose I could include something," Zhao Menglin suddenly said.

    Her quick change of heart went unnoticed by the War Princess, but Yun Xiao''s brow furrowed. He sensed it. This woman bore malice toward the War Princess! She didn''t want the War Princess to leave just yet, so even the rules could be bent on a whim.

    "Have her give a Sword Heart," Yun Xiao whispered directly into the War Princess'' heart.

    "Throw in a Sword Heart," the War Princess said to Zhao Menglin. "You''re a Sword Cultivator; you should have some to spare."

    "You''re kidding, Sword Hearts are hotmodities, set aside as life-saving treasures," Zhao Menglin said, though she made no move to stop the War Princess, who picked up the ice niche and casually asked as she passed by, "Which room holds the Sword Hearts? I''d like to take a look."

    "The veryst one." Zhao Menglin continued to smile as she pointed down the corridor to its end.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The deeper the War Princess went, the harder it would be to escape this cage.

    <em>CLACK! CLACK! CLACK! </em>The War Princess led the way with Yun Xiao attending behind her. She truly embodied royalty, at least in height and presence.

    <em>KLANG! </em>The two reached the final chamber, a room secured with a hefty door. The War Princess pushed it open to reveal an even darker space, where an ice-blue sarcophagusy at the far end, lined with about 100 frigid Sword Hearts!

    These Sword Hearts, each bristling with the raw power of Sword Prisons, were vastly superior to those of the Celestial Court.

    "These precious items, just out in the open like this, aren''t you afraid they¡¯ll be stolen?" the War Princess turned and asked Zhao Menglin.

    Zhao Menglin gave a lightugh. "Little sister, shops on Harmony Street are under the protection of the Harmony Divine Pce. We''re all legitimate businesses here, don''t be absurd."

    "Heh." The War Princess crossed her arms. "A Cmity Source for purchase, and throw in a Sword Heart."

    "The cheapest Sword Heart here is worth 2,000 Supreme Immortal Jades," Zhao Menglin replied with a shake of her head, viewing the young girl as utterly naive, bordering on foolish.

    "Either way, no Sword Heart, no deal," the War Princess chuckled.

    With that, she called out to Yun Xiao, "Hey piggy, let''s go!"

    At this nickname, Yun Xiao nearly lost his temper.

    "Wait..." Zhao Menglin suddenly stepped in front of the War Princess, smiling sweetly. "Little sister, what''s your name?"

    "Feng Yao," the War Princess replied offhandedly, then with a cold lift of her brows, asked Zhao Menglin, "What, does your shady shop intend to fleece its customers?"

    "Not at all." Zhao Menglin dropped her fa?ade, her smile broadening. "I¡¯m just proposing a great future for you. Just use that clever tongue of yours, and you¡¯ll have endless wealth and honor."

    "What? My eloquence can bring me riches and honor?" the War Princess quipped, intrigued yet skeptical.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 767: Whos the One Actually Trapped?

    Chapter 767: Who''s the One Actually Trapped?

    The War Princess hadn''t grasped the meaning behind Zhao Menglin''s words at all. She knew Zhao Menglin was out to get her but hadn''t figured out why, perhaps thinking she found out they had stolen the Six-Hearted Serpent.

    The War Princess didn''t understand, but Yun Xiao did.

    With a snort, he couldn''t hold back hisughter. He had thought these celestial maidens of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm harbored only desires for cultivation and strife, procreating by drinking from Divine Springs, living otherwise without wants or needs!

    It turned out they were so desperate that even the War Princess was seen as a <em>strong recruit</em>.

    If the War Princess ever came to realize this, she¡¯d likely have a fit.

    "You wretched ve¡­" Zhao Menglin knew the War Princess was quite dim-witted and naive. Even though most people would get the meaning behind her words, what was with this ve?

    He understood andughed? That was odd!

    The ves of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm had mostly lost their wills and spines. Their lives, marked by obedience, numbness, andpliance, were akin to that of dogs.

    How could a dogugh? Did it suddenly be enlightened?Zhao Menglin''s expression turned speechless in an instant. Fortunately, just then, the moment she had been waiting for arrived!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Her entire Menglin Pavilion suddenly trembled. Then, a series of nging sounds echoed, and the whole dark shop shook violently.

    Soon, inscriptions surged across the shop¡¯s floors, tiles, walls, pirs, and ceiling, forming dense celestial arrays!

    Even a potted nt was shielded within these dark, eerie celestial arrays!

    As for the explicitly priced <em>treasures</em>, they too were instantly enveloped by the celestial arrays, isting them from Yun Xiao and the War Princess!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Even thest chamber¡¯s ice sarcophagus mmed shut, its surface covered with a dark wave-like celestial formation that emitted a bone-chilling coldness, hiding the Sword Hearts from view!

    All these sudden changes trapped Yun Xiao and the War Princess, who were just out browsing, within the prison of celestial arrays. They couldn''t touch the treasures, much less think of escape.

    "Well, this shady shop sure ys rough!" the War Princess said exasperatedly.

    No wonder Zhao Menglin feared neither theft nor robbery of her possessions. And it was no surprise she disyed the Sword Hearts so openly.

    What was there to fear? Her entire shop was a cage; others merely entered her prison to shop. What concern could she possibly have?

    She was the very same who, in a fit of rage from losing the Six-Hearted Beast, had doubled the torment on her junior sisters!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The celestial array activated and mped down like a prison lid.

    Zhao Menglin rxed her posture, nonchntly covering her mouth tough, "Alright, the shop''s closed, the array¡¯s active, it''s time you listened."

    "Listen to what?" the War Princess sneered coldly.

    "Still ying the fool, you dumb little chick," Zhao Menglin snapped impatiently.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "You''re the dumb chick, you old broiler!" the War Princess retorted.

    At this, Zhao Menglin''s temper slowly red.

    "Are you truly this brash? Why?" Even someone as seasoned as her was losing her patience.

    "Because I''m your senior," the War Princess chuckled. How was she not afraid despite such dire straits? She wasn''t entirely sure herself! Mainly because Yun Xiao seemed unafraid, so she continued to y tough.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao suddenly said, "Zhao Menglin, did you ever consider that my mistress, being such a rare gem, already belongs to another, well beyond your reach?"

    At his words, Zhao Menglin was visibly shaken, her brows furrowing deeply. Because Yun Xiao made a solid point! Such a prize surely already enjoyed the favor of another...

    "Hah, good joke!" Zhao Menglin, momentarily fearful, quickly caught herself. Her gaze piercingly cold, she hissed at Yun Xiao, "If she truly had a backer, they¡¯d never show their face in a humble shop like this. Their existence would be a guarded secret, never unted openly."

    Her reasoning was crystal clear, and Yun Xiao knew he couldn¡¯t deceive her.

    "Furthermore!" Zhao Menglin red at Yun Xiao, snarling, "You little mutt, dare to speak over your betters? Haven¡¯t you already been stripped clean of your essence?"

    She had no patience to hear anything more from Yun Xiao! And just as she finished speaking, a ck Flying Sword, one with 300 Sword Prisons, suddenly shot towards Yun Xiao¡¯s chest!

    The Flying Sword did not pierce Yun Xiao, but instead seemed to be mped down by something. With a loud st, shards of teeth were sent scattering through the air.

    "My baby teeth are shattered, dang it!" Red Moon howled.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao was hurled backward, crashing into the ice sarcophagus behind him. The ck celestial array on the coffin trembled violently, and dark serpents unfurled, binding him as securely as ropes on a bound bull.

    <em>PUFF! </em>The fierce impact forced blood from Yun Xiao''s mouth.

    Even with the protection of Blue Star and Red Moon, he was injured, a rarity that highlighted his shallow foundations.

    The instantaneous assault of a 300 Sword Prison Flying Sword demonstrated Zhao Menglin''s profound mastery, acquired during the Fourth Dao Tribtion¡ªa level of prowess not shared by the likes of the Divine Imperial Son or the goose-yellow girl.

    Her sword was a brutal weapon of ughter, quick to kill without negotiation.

    "He¡¯s not dead?!" Zhao Menglin was genuinely surprised; her strike, intended to kill, had failed to finish a mere Third Dao Tribtion ve. Ordinarily, one blow could ughter 100¡­

    Her interest piqued! This ve''s oddities had truly caught her attention.

    "You''ve got some nerve, boy. I¡¯ll y you myself to see what''s hidden underneath." Zhao Menglin drew her Flying Sword, transforming it suddenly into a ck Palm Sword.

    The sword''s aura surged like a dark, chilling river, sweeping cold across the shop, turning it into a cavernous abyss of shadow.

    "Cough, cough." Yun Xiao coughed a few times, clearing the blood from his mouth.

    "Are you alright..." The War Princess looked at him with concern, instinctively pulling at the dark serpents and grasping Yun Xiao''s arm.

    This caused Zhao Menglin''s pupils to shrink!

    "Something''s very wrong with these two!"

    Such closeness between a mistress and ve was absolutely forbidden in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    "You are in deep trouble." Zhao Menglin sneered darkly, a crushing force sweeping towards them, her presence like a cold tidal wave covering the skies.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao suddenly looked up, his stern face breaking into a coldugh as murderous intent shed across his features!

    "It''s you who''s in deep trouble!"

    In his hand, Yun Xiao suddenly brandished a three-foot azure de. Compared to the abyssal darkness of her Sword Soul, this azure de seemed as frail as a leaf. But, as he raised the sword, the ice sarcophagus behind him shook violently as ifing back to life.

    "What is that?!" Zhao Menglin gasped.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The ice sarcophagus exploded suddenly, ripping a gap in the dark shop''s celestial arrays. A hundred Sword Hearts, like pilgrims possessed, crashed into the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, seeking what seemed like their greatest liberation in life.

    With the power of 100 Sword Hearts converging, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul transformed into a fierce azure-ck dragon, spiraling above Yun Xiao''s head and unleashing a devastating force.

    The cold murderous intent on the young man''s face mirrored the destructive fury of the dark azure dragon.

    "My Sword Hearts!!" Zhao Menglin felt as if her heart was bleeding. Her treasured possessions, how could they vanish, how could they be someone else''s power!

    She knew the force of these 100 Sword Hearts if unleashed normally! Now, absorbed simultaneously under inexplicable circumstances, their power was magnified...

    What she didn''t realize was that these Sword Hearts were no longer just hearts; they had be part of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which now held the true power.

    "Indeed, they are your Sword Hearts, returned to you! Everything else in your shop is mine now!" Yun Xiao dered abruptly.

    Freshly arrived, he was in dire need of his first true fortune.

    "What?" Zhao Menglin, her long dress swirling in the tempest, her face marked with cold fury and rising anger, snapped, "To hell with you!"

    She transformed into a dark blur, charging furiously at Yun Xiao!

    "Go!" Expressionless, Yun Xiao unleashed the full destructive force of the Heaven Burial Soul Sword,manding his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit to steer the Flying Sword. The dark azure dragon opened its maw in the cramped space, colliding violently with Zhao Menglin.

    <em>ROAR! </em>The dark azure dragon swept through destructively!

    "AGH!" Zhao Menglin screamed agonizingly as her head was obliterated into dust, her headless corpse copsing onto the ice coffin beside Yun Xiao!

    "How can those Sword Hearts be this strong..." Her spirit, emerging dazed from the corpse, cried miserably.

    Yun Xiao, with the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit guiding the Flying Sword, approached Zhao Menglin''s spirit. As he delivered her spirit to the beyond, he said, "I''ll take your shop, no thanks needed. Oh, and just so you know, I took the Six-Hearted Serpent too."

    "Ahh!" In a mix of despair and unwillingness, Zhao Menglin dissipated into nothingness.

 Chapter 768: Obsidian Star Meridians!

    Chapter 768: Obsidian Star Meridians!

    With a swift, decisive strike, Yun Xiao extinguished Zhao Menglin in a single sh with the Sword Hearts, a move not without itsmotion.

    Fortunately, the Menglin Pavilion¡¯s celestial array had sealed everything within when the doors closed, ensuring that even the most violent death cries stirred no one outside.

    Zhao Menglin, who had often dealt death within the bustling Harmony Street, never imagined that her trade in Sword Hearts would twist fate so cruelly, leading to her own brutal demise right in her shop!

    In the end, all her life''s amassed cultivation resources and wealth unwittingly became Yun Xiao¡¯s property.

    ¡°I was scared to death!¡± The War Princess quickly helped Yun Xiao to his feet, her eyes slightly reddened.

    ¡°What¡¯s there to fear?¡± Yun Xiao steadied his breath and checked his injuries.

    The Flying Sword had left his organs slightly damaged, necessitating healing from celestial elixirs¡ªan inconvenience, but not a grave one.

    ¡°Who knew the tucked-away Sword Hearts would fly out to save you?¡± the War Princess thought he had miscalcted.

    ¡°Even without the Sword Hearts, I wouldn¡¯t have died. Rest assured.¡± From his Bag of Holding, Yun Xiao fetched several Yang Spirit Elixirs, whose medicinal power spread through his body, easing his difort.The War Princess was about to say more when a pale-faced young man burst in, immediately spotting Zhao Menglin¡¯s headless corpse.

    ¡°Mistress! Mistress¡­¡± His heart tore apart as tears streamed down, his face contorted with the rage of despair. He fixed a deathly stare at Yun Xiao and the War Princess.

    ¡°You killed my master! Die! Die!¡± Mad with grief, he charged at them, stumbling and crawling, his voice a trembling howl, his eyes nearly popping out.

    Yun Xiao watched it all.

    As the pale-faced young man nearly reached them, Yun Xiao¡¯s Heaven Burial Sword Soul flew from his hand, piercing the young man¡¯s heart and drawing a few drops of blood.

    ¡°Ugh¡­¡± Clutching his chest, the young man staggered and fell beside Zhao Menglin¡¯s headless body.

    Beneath him, blood flowed freely.

    ¡°Mistress¡­¡± With thest of his strength, he reached out desperately and grabbed at the chest of the headless corpse.

    Then, with a blissful expression, he died a peaceful death.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± the War Princess looked puzzledly at Yun Xiao. ¡°Didn¡¯t you feel sympathy for them? Why kill him?¡±

    ¡°He was beyond saving; better to release him sooner,¡± Yun Xiao replied, using the Buddha¡¯s Treasure Spirit to deliver the soul of the pale-faced young man.

    He had depleted most of the absorbed Buddha''s Treasures in the final battle against Lu Fan. Now, with Zhao Menglin¡¯s Buddha''s Treasure absorbed, it was the equivalent to millions of spirits from the Celestial Court.

    ¡°You mean, his envement was so deep, his world contained only adoration for his mistress and a buried, untouchable longing deep within his heart¡­¡±n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    In simple terms, this man was thoroughly brainwashed. No me could be cast. For he was more pitiable than one could imagine, beyond any hope of redemption.

    "Does utter abasement lead to the loss of one''s senses?" the War Princess pondered this sad case, her thoughts drifting to her ownplex ties with Yun Xiao, which invariably tightened her chest with difort.

    "Let''s not refine his blood. Just bury him here, let him find peace," Yun Xiao suggested gently.

    "But the ground here is protected by a formation; we can¡¯t dig," the War Princess retorted with a pout.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t respond. His sword searched the young pale-faced man''s body briefly before extracting a ck object, glossy like jade. He lifted it for inspection.

    "What is this?" the War Princess leaned in, curiosity painted across her face.

    She was curious about too many things these days!

    "It¡¯s simr to one of the four grand celestial treasures controlling the Sacred Emperor Barrier back in the Celestial Court; it¡¯smonly called an Array Matrix around here. Essentially, it¡¯s a special celestial treasure that serves as the heart of a celestial formation. It¡¯s tough, durable, and possesses offensive capabilities," Yun Xiao exined.

    No sooner had he finished exining than he drew the Prison Warden Sigil from his waist.

    The violet Life Sigil swept past the War Princess¡¯ pretty face.

    "What are you doing!" Her face flushed a deep red.

    "What? Nothing," Yun Xiao said, taken aback.

    She red at him, thinking, "Don''t tell me you forgot where you''ve been keeping that! You should know better than to bring it near someone¡¯s face!"

    She didn¡¯t voice her thoughts, fearing that Yun Xiao might just stick it on her face in response.

    "Nonsense." Uninterested in arguing, Yun Xiao pped the Prison Warden Sigil onto the ck jade-like treasure, activating the Prison Ward Sigil''s fifth form, Formation God!

    This form of the Prison Warden Sigil was bewildering. Once Formation God was enacted, the treasure despite being Divine Heaven grade failed to put up any resistance.

    Before long, the Array Matrix was overwhelmed by the Prison Warden Sigil, and from the original ck jade emerged a violet mist, coalescing into a nine-headed dragon.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The entire dark wave-like celestial formation that enveloped the Menglin Pavilion turned a deep violet, streaked with the shadows of dragons, their divine presence markedly enhanced.

    "There, we own this ce now," Yun Xiao dered, tossing the now dark violet jade with satisfaction.

    "You mean to say, just by seizing this Array Matrix, you can control a whole celestial formation?" the War Princess asked, utterly astonished.

    It was all a matter of the level of the Life Sigil.

    "If the Life Sigil isn''t powerful enough, controlling some of them could be quite the task," Yun Xiao remarked casually.

    "Ah," the War Princess nodded silently, her perception of Yun Xiao growing ever more enigmatic and daunting.

    "You should refine Zhao Menglin''s blood next, then take stock of all her treasures. Given the vast amounts of Sword Hearts she had, she was undeniably wealthy," Yun Xiao instructed.

    Upon hearing of treasures to be ounted for, the War Princess''s spirits soared. "I''m good at this part," she dered cheerfully.

    With a swift gesture, she turned Zhao Menglin into a mummy, and buried the pale-faced young man as well.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao absorbed the Seed of Creation from Zhao Menglin called Obsidian Star Meridians¡ªa type of meridian talent akin to the Nine Heavens Star Meridians.

    This Obsidian Star Meridians talent, once integrated into Yun Xiao''s Nine Heavens Star Meridians, initially tried to overpower the existing structure. Its essence surged through his veins, forging them as strong and shimmering as obsidian diamonds.

    Yet soon, the inherent strength of the Nine Heavens Star Meridians assimted the neer, restoring the vibrant, sparkling colors of Yun Xiao''s pathways, enhancing them even further.

    The oue was a bolstered set of Nine Heavens Star Meridians.

    "It¡¯s no wonder these Seeds of Creation from the descendants of Cosmic Immortals are so potent. Though initially weak, none of the other Seeds of Creation I¡¯ve absorbed so far could supnt it, only serving to enrich it," Yun Xiao mused.

    He reckoned that the Nine Suns Dantian of Ling Chen and Ye Xingchen''s Nine Heavens Star Meridians would endure for a considerable time.

    As for the Chaos Soul¡­ though Yun Xiao had given the Chaos Emperor Lotus to Zhao Xuanran, its innate abilities were rooted in the ck Lotus Spirit Seed, which he had already absorbed.

    These three Seeds of Creation were inherently superior, and Yun Xiao estimated they wouldst him quite some time.

    "With Moon Fairy supported by the bloodline of the Nian and Yaksha Ancestor, my physique is near indestructible. As for Yao Yao, her blood talent stillcks a top-tier Seed of Creation; she has to switch repeatedly."

    In general, possessing a continuously strengthening pinnacle talent would certainly be advantageous. But the absence of one wasn''t a deal breaker!

    "I wonder what quality Zhao Menglin¡¯s Sword Soul was?" Yun Xiao pondered.

    He plunged the Heaven Burial Sword Soul into her Sword Bone, where the force of 300 Sword Prisons lingered. The incursion by the Heaven Burial Sword Soul catalyzed a transformation, causing 3,000,000,000yers of dark Sword Aura to surge out from the Sword Bone towards it!

    The entire Menglin Pavilion was engulfed by this dark Sword Aura storm.

    Were it not for the celestial formation sealing the ce, the sheer ferocity of this storm would have rmed many.

    "Excellent, truly excellent!" Yun Xiao mused, looking at Zhao Menglin¡¯s skeletal remains.

    Even in death, Zhao Menglin was subjected to a second demise, a fate most tragic.

    No sooner had he finished than the War Princess returned, her face alight with joy as she jogged up, eximing, "We''ve struck it rich!"

    "Slow down, all that jiggling is making my head spin," Yun Xiaoined.

    "You¡­" the War Princess halted, folding her arms and biting her lip as she red at Yun Xiao.

    Sadly, she didn''t have any frozen cones to harass him with anymore¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Slow down, all that jiggling is making my head spin," Yun Xiaoined.</blockquote>

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 769: Reincarnation Wick!

    ¡°So, what kind of treasures did you find?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Everything you can imagine,¡± the War Princess replied. ¡°Celestial treasures, Cmity Sources, elixirs, and also secret daoist magics, spiritual nts, and rare celestial ores.¡±

    ¡°Good. Let''s not waste time. I''ll clear this ce out while you focus on forming the Corona here. Once that¡¯s done, we head straight to the Harmony Divine Pce,¡± Yun Xiao dered.

    ¡°How do I form it? Which Cmity Form should I choose?¡± the War Princess asked, puzzled.

    ¡°Leave it to me. I''ll choose one for you and help you form it,¡± Yun Xiao said, his authority rooted in the essence of the Mortal Dust Devil within him, allowing him to control her cultivation.

    ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I was waiting to hear,¡± the War Princess thought to herself, a smirk ying on her lips. Wasn¡¯t this just the life?

    Yun Xiao then entered the chamber full of Cmity Sources. Quickly, he fetched thergest block of ice, hurling it into the War Princess¡¯ arms. ¡°This is the most valuable piece here, worth 3,000 True Immortal Jades. Forming the Corona might be a bit perilous.¡±

    ¡°What should we do then?¡± she asked.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°I¡¯ll handle it,¡± Yun Xiao paused, then said resignedly, ¡°I just wanted you to be mentally prepared, so you don¡¯t start howling in pain.¡±¡°Nonsense, am I not ady?¡± the War Princess scoffed.

    ¡°Haha.¡± With that, Yun Xiao turned and entered another chamber. Yet he never truly left the War Princess¡¯ side but instead took residence in her heart. ¡°Don¡¯t move; just sit. I''ll handle the cultivation.¡±

    ¡°Mhm!¡± The War Princess rxed, cross-legged, stretchingzily as if on vacation.

    ¡°Wake up a level higher, and oh, the satisfaction.¡±

    Her face was always smiling, contentment glowing from within.

    ¡°I can¡¯t seem to appear thiszy, though. I should say more, get more involved.¡± She cleared her throat and asked, ¡°Hey, all this talk about the Corona, what exactly is it?¡±

    In her heart, the Mortal Dust Devil Seed stirred, mobilizing the devilish blood within her as it spoke sternly, ¡°It is the innate force born from the collision of the Fourth Dao Tribtion''s Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms with the cultivator¡¯s physical body, bloodline, and celestial power after sessful transcendence. It manifests as a Corona around the person.¡±

    ¡°That soundsplex. What does it do?¡± she inquired.

    ¡°It has many functions, mostly beneficial auras, but some can attack directly. It depends on the type of Cmity Source and one¡¯s own bloodline. It also enhances the cultivator''s connection with the elements of the world, improving their insight,¡± Yun Xiao exined.

    ¡°In simple terms, it¡¯s a boost to battle power,¡± the War Princess realized.

    ¡°Your summary sounds like nonsense,¡± Yun Xiao scoffed.

    ¡°You just enjoy the thrill of schooling a silly little girl, don¡¯t you? I''m just ying along for you,¡± the War Princess huffed.

    ¡°Then, do what you''re best at and keep ying along,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    "Hmph," the War Princess muttered under her breath, cursing him several times in her heart.

    "By the way," Yun Xiao suddenly emerged from one of the icy chambers and, looking at the delicate beauty seated in meditation, asked, "Did you just tell Zhao Menglin that your name was Feng Yao?"

    "Yes, what about it?" she opened her eyes and asked, slightly annoyed.

    "You''re a Feng?" Yun Xiao recalled that she once had a fianc¨¦ named Feng You; they belonged to the same n. So, her surname being Feng made perfect sense.

    But his question seemed to ignite her fury instead, and she red at him, eximing, "You''re utterly heartless! After all this time with you, you only now learn my full name¡ªare you even human?"

    "Little blood ve, don''t get too carried away. Knowing your nickname, Yao Yao, is already quite generous. Who needs to know your full name?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Get lost," the War Princess snapped, cursing him millions of times in her heart.

    "Why do they call you the War Princess then?" Yun Xiao asked further.

    "It''s a title! A title, do you understand?" she replied exasperatedly.

    "So, you must have been brave and diligent in battle to have earned this title," Yun Xiao teased.

    "Get lost again," the War Princess nearly screamed.

    Seeing her flustered like this brought a peculiar joy to Yun Xiao; sometimes, the simple pleasures between two people were just that¡ªsimple and pure.

    Wasn''t this wonderful?

    "Feng Yao? Yun Xiao?" He turned and walked into the next chamber, murmuring to himself, "<em>Ever changing like the weather, free and unfettered</em>¡­ our two names match up well. No wonder we''re so fated."

    "Feng Yao, Feng Yao..." He quietly repeated the name. Having known her for so long and only now learning her name was indeed amusing.

    But this only proved that Yun Xiao hade to regard her as someone significant, not merely a blood ve created because of her gender, as was initially intended...

    Outside, the young devil girl named Feng Yao red at his retreating figure and whispered, "Annoying scoundrel, always ying tricks on others. Be careful or you''ll end up cursed!"

    "Hey, I heard that..." the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in her heart responded.

    It was then that Feng Yao remembered¡ªthat scoundrel of a man still resided within her!

    ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything, you heard wrong,¡± she insisted vehemently.

    ¡°You¡¯ve let the cat out of the bag now, you¡¯re done for.¡±

    Yun Xiao teased her, emptying the Menglin Pavilion all the while, helping her refine her Corona. Both tasks were straightforward for him, requiring nothing more than following a procedure, yet his attention drifted to Moon Fairy.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Six Paths of Reincarnation¡­

    After a journey, the Destion Corps finally reached the military camp in the Beastly Peaks. Compared to the misty, pink-tinged snow of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, this world of the Six Paths of Reincarnation was a murky mess, reeking and chaotic, where destion ruled thend.

    Especially here in the Beast Path, a world belonging to creatures devoid of spiritual wisdom¡ªbeasts. Even the demons here were still seen as entities without intellect. This realm was even more foul and brutal.

    The whole world seemed filled with all manner of sinister energies. Faces of death formed from the fog filled the skies, and the constant sounds of ghostly wails and wolf howls echoed around.

    Rumbling filled the air as the almost 1,000-strong Destion Corps surged past, with Moon Fairy among them. He, a six-tailed silver fox, might have been the smallest in form, but the looks he received from the other monstrous soldiers were filled with awe and respect.

    It was a simple, crude world where strength alone earned you allegiance and admiration.

    So, for Yun Xiao, rising in the ranks of the Beast Path seemed much easierpared to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªa ce of cunning Immortals and deceptive beauty that hid countless dangers.

    Now, both his true form and his body double were merely starting out, but Moon Fairy was already making smooth progress.

    ¡°Beastly Peaks¡­¡±

    In the midst of a swirling gray storm, the six-tailed silver fox looked ahead.

    Before him stretched andscape filled with endless, perilous peaks, like monstrous demons blocking out the sky, while torrents of wild power swept through the air, forming barriers of fire, thunder, and ice above the mountains.

    ¡°It¡¯s clear then, this military encampment is also a crucial site for the demon race¡¯s cultivation. There are many opportunities here¡­¡± The eyes of Moon Fairy were serious and profound.

    Even before reaching the camp, he could already feel the ferocity ahead.

    Roars echoed, constant and thunderous, reverberating through the gorges of the Beastly Peaks, tingling the scalp even from a distance.

    ¡°The Colonelmands a 1,000-man regiment of the Destion Corps, but here in the Beastly Peaks, the Destion Corps numbers a full 1,000,000!¡±

    Even among the Colonels, there were as many as 1,000 like the ck Brute Bear.

    It was only on the journey back that Moon Fairy learned that even the Colonel had a name. Hers was Lin Daiyuan, a name of grace that matched her human form¡ªstunning and shapely, with curves that could stop hearts. But in her true form, the name hardly seemed to fit the monstrous reality¡­

    Now, Lin Daiyuan led the way, transformed into a colossal roaring bear, her ws alone stretching over three feet!

    ¡°A veritable mobile prison, navigating the wildest of worlds,¡± the Yaksha Ancestormented about him, finding some amusement in having someone to argue with in such a deste jail¡ªa wee change from the endless, soul-sucking monotony of his previous confines.

    ¡°What is that?¡±

    At the very threshold of the Beastly Peaks, Moon Fairy spotted something extraordinary¡ªa cauldron so immense it dwarfed the surrounding peaks, its colossal ck form towering like a behemoth, oppressive and breathtaking. Within this giant cauldron burned a green me so fierce it licked the clouds, staining them a sinister shade of green.

    Though green, the me was intensely hot; just entering these mountains made Moon Fairy sweat, and even the fierce beasts of the Destion Corps perspired visibly.

    ¡°The Ghost Cauldron!¡±

    Suddenly, a familiar voice called out, and a kapok flower appeared overhead.

    ¡°The Ghost Cauldron?¡± Moon Fairy gasped, his question betraying a hint of knowledge about the cauldron but surprise that this was it.

    ¡°Yes, one of the Eighteen Cauldrons of Reincarnation, one of the three pirs of the Beast Path! Our first duty as the 1,000,000-strong Destion Corps is to protect this cauldron. And now, it''s your duty too,¡± Old Kapok spoke gravely.

    ¡°I understand.¡± Moon Fairy¡¯s gaze returned to the infernal green fire. ¡°Then, this me, is it the legendary¡­¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s kindled by the Wick of Reincarnation!¡± Old Kapok chuckled, adding wistfully, ¡°The Wick of Reincarnation, said to resurrect any soul and perfect any body it touches. Many covet it.¡±

    After a pause, he looked at Moon Fairy andughed gently. ¡°Young man, you¡¯re clearly a creature of deep feeling. There must be a regret in this world that you can¡¯t forget, huh?¡±

    ¡°There are many.¡± Moon Fairy smiled ruefully. ¡°All the Wicks of Reincarnation put together wouldn¡¯t be enough to resolve my regrets.¡±

    ¡°A true romantic,¡± Old Kapok mused.

    ¡°Indeed.¡±

    As they spoke, Moon Fairy gently fingered a pendant by his ear, his eyes deep with thought as he gazed at the Ghost Cauldron.

    Deep down, his fixation on Lady Hua Lian never waned.

    Just then, the ck Brute Bear Lin Daiyuan suddenly halted and turned back to growl, ¡°All forces, to the Ghost Cauldron! We have a distinguished guest arriving today!¡±

    ¡°A distinguished guest?¡±

    Yun Xiao was still pondering testing Moon Fairy¡¯s potential among the demon beasts. Now, who could this guest be?

 Chapter 770: Calamity Corona, Boundless Immortal!

    Yun Xiao had little interest in what sort of distinguished guest had arrived. Yet, this presented an opportunity to approach the Ghost Cauldron and the Reincarnation Wick.

    "First, let''s condense a Corona for Yao Yao," he decided.

    His primary focus returned to Feng Yao. Her body was suffused with Mortal Dust Devil Blood under his control, and he allowed it to flow to every corner of her being. So intimate was his knowledge of her body that he could manage even the sway of her hairs¡ªsometimes to a disturbing extent!

    In a sense, her blood was now his, a significant and essential part of her being. The Mortal Dust Devil Blood coursed through her heart, arteries, and countless finer vessels, permeating her flesh, organs, and every internal system.

    This level of contact and control surpassed even the pleasure between a man and a woman, embedding deeply within her body. Because of this, whenever Yun Xiao cultivated using the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, she couldn¡¯t help but feel emotional shifts; her heartbeat quickened, blood surged faster, aiding her cultivation.

    The more she cultivated, the more herplexion and skin flushed, now resembling a ripely blushing peach, emitting wisps of white steam. Her elerating heartbeat and the surge of blood through her body sometimes caused peculiar sensations, bringing her intense pleasure,pelling her to emit prolonged, soft moans.

    It was indeed a soul-stirring experience.

    This was why Yun Xiao advised her to moan less during cultivation.

    "Whew!" Feng Yao took a deep breath, her chest heaving. Opening her blood-drenched eyes, her gaze fell on her jade-like fingers, holding an icy slip.Abel on the niche read¡ª

    ¡¸<em>Upper Defying Heaven grade, Sanguine Spirit Serpent Cmity Source, born of heaven and earth, imbued with the power of a Sanguine Spirit, destined to summon the Sanguine Spirit Baptism upon the bearer¡­</em>¡¹

    To ease the unusual surge of blood within, the War Princess bit her lip and asked in a dazed and enduring tone, "This Defying Heaven grade, is it higher than the Divine Heaven grade within the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades?"

    "Hmm," the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in her heart replied casually, "Common, Vast, Supreme, Dao, Divine¡­ Yeah, Defying Heaven is the next one up. I suppose it would be natural to assume that Defying Heaven grade treasures, pills, and Cmity Sources surpass those of the Divine Heaven grade."

    It was a quality so superior it defied the heavens!

    After saying this, Yun Xiao added, "The Great Dao Celestial Realm is ssified as Category 1. Generally, Category 1 cesck Cmity Sources. So, no cultivators there are in the Fourth Dao Tribtion, nor are there Defying Heaven grade treasures."

    "What about the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm?" Feng Yao asked softly, her eyes zed.

    "Zhao Menglin has apendium here on the entire Samsara Gxy. It indicates that the Samsara Gxy is Category 3, two levels higher than the Celestial Court," Yun Xiao replied, his true self not far away, currently engrossed in reading that very section on the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    Within the vast expanse of the Samsara Gxy, 18 ster rivers crisscrossed, each harboring numerous Celestial Sourcecores, governed by various major powers.

    Some of these worlds were rife with numerous sects, leading to chaotic societies where bloody internal conflicts were frequent. Yet, others, like the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, were firmly under the centralized rule of the Harmony Divine Pce, where such concentrated power often meant greater strength.

    "So, are there also smaller ces like the Celestial Court here?" Feng Yao inquired.

    "They likely exist but are probably under the dominion of various sects. For instance, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is 1,000 times that of the Celestial Court. From one to 1,000, the entire Samsara Gxy is immensely vast, likely containing many different sized Celestial Sourcecores," Yun Xiao exined.

    This was the reason his spirit soared with such grandeur! This realm was vast!

    The Harmony Divine Pce of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was merely a forced choice, a narrow path in a grand scheme.

    He desired to break free from this world of women!

    Both Yun Xiao and the War Princess, as well as Moon Fairy, sought to traverse the infinite ster seas! To do that, stepping into the Fourth Dao Tribtion was crucial.

    So, during their conversation, Yun Xiao, using Mortal Dust Devil Blood, opened the icy slip that Feng Yao held!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With the opening of the slip, cold air burst forth.

    Within that chilly mist, a crimson blood serpent emerged¡ªnot a creature of flesh but a vague energy form, a concentration of tribtion power, as if a celestial tribtion had solidified into matter.

    "Hiss, hiss!" The crimson serpent, its power flowing, slowly raised its head and stared coldly at Feng Yao, flicking its tongue at her.

    "Who are you trying to scare?" Feng Yao retorted with a flick of her own tongue, which was almost serpent-like itself, long and smooth; no wonder Zhao Menglin favored it.

    "Swallow it, and I''ll refine it with Mortal Dust Devil Blood to trigger the Sanguine Spirit Baptism. Survive this, and integrate the tribtion power into the Mortal Dust Devil Blood to form the Sanguine Spirit Serpent Corona, and you''ll enter the First Baptism Realm," Yun Xiao said earnestly and sternly.

    "Huh, weird¡­ These Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms aren¡¯t just thunderbolts from the sky? Internal rather than external, how strong can it be?" Feng Yao asked, puzzled.

    "Just how strong or deadly, you''ll find out soon enough," Yun Xiao replied with a teasing smile.

    "Alright then!"

    "Shall we start now?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Wait..." Feng Yao hesitated as she regarded the Sanguine Spirit Serpent, its body swirling with wild, Defying Heaven grade tribtion power. The idea of ingesting such a Cmity Source into her body was somewhat frightening.

    "I still don''t quite understand. Exin this Fourth Dao Tribtion to me again!" Feng Yao asked timidly.

    "Coward," Yun Xiao''s true self nced at her disdainfully, then exined, "The First Dao Tribtion is foundational, the Second Dao Tribtion tests the Dao Heart, the Third Dao Tribtion the spirit, and the Fourth Dao Tribtion the Corona. However, this Fourth Dao Tribtion is indeed quite different from the previous three."

    "How is it different?" Feng Yao asked.

    "There''s a saying in the world. To transcend the Corona is to be a boundless Immortal. It means if you pass the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms, you be an Immortal without limits, one who can cleave Celestial Sourcecores in two with a mere gesture!

    "The Fourth Dao Tribtion itselfprises eight realms, each a tribtion itself. With each tribtion conquered, another ring is added to the Cmity Corona. The First Baptism Realm is the lowest, and the Eighth the highest. Each of these realms further divides into Early, Middle, Late, Perfect, and Establishment stages," Yun Xiao exined.

    "So, the Fourth Dao Tribtion also epasses 40 stages. It''s not about surviving five small tribtions within one realm but rather every stage in each of the eight realms is a major tribtion..." Feng Yao realized with an epiphany.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Before, the Wind Fire Tribtions, Five Cmities, and Five Thunders Spirit Tribtions were all small tribtions.

    However, the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms were all major ones!

    Looking at the Sanguine Spirit Serpent Cmity Source before her, Feng Yao couldn''t fathom how it could possibly bring her a major tribtion.

    "Right, does that mean, depending on the Cmity Source one chooses, the nature of the tribtion changes?" she asked, puzzled.

    "Indeed," Yun Xiao nodded, consulting thependium he held. "It''s said all Cmity Sources originate from a ce called the Myriad Dao Ocean of Cmity. It''s filled with innumerable celestial tribtions, and to date, the Samsara Gxy records indicate there are as many as 1,800,000,000 types of Cmity Sources."

    "Good heavens! That many..." Feng Yao was stunned.

    "Though there are 1,800,000,000, you only need to choose eight. What''s there to fear?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Wait, are some Cmity Sources weaker than others? Why not pick the easiest one and just get it over with?" Feng Yao asked, somewhat embarrassed.

    "The higher the grade of the Cmity Source, the more destructive it is, but the greater the benefits once you transcend it. You''re a peerless genius, how would you choose?" Yun Xiao countered.

    "So, if you only pick the highest grades and endure the harshest trials, you can be way stronger," Feng Yao replied with a smirk, then gave Yun Xiao a sideways nce. "Why not wait then? Snag the Cmity Sources at the highest grade of the Nine Heaven Celestial Grades at the right moment, making all your tribtions of the highest order? Wouldn''t that be perfect?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head. "Firstly, it''s written here that for the first two celestial baptisms, only the Defying Heaven grade can be chosen. Historically, those who opted for higher grades in their first two baptisms have all perished without exception. Secondly, if you don''t be stronger, where are we supposed to find higher quality Cmity Sources?"

    Feng Yao gave him a peculiar look. "Aren''t you handsome? This ce is teeming with thirsty celestial beauties. You could sell a little charm, and wealth would follow."

    "Get lost." Yun Xiao red at her, too exasperated to continue exining.

    Regardless of whether the War Princess knew what he was doing with his body double or not, it made no difference to Yun Xiao.

    "The Sanguine Spirit Serpent Cmity Source is Upper Defying Heaven grade, the finest avable for entering the First Baptism Realm. Go on, eat it," Yun Xiao instructed.

    Feng Yao gazed at the menacing blood serpent, trembling slightly. "This serpent is too disgusting. Can we change it?"

    "What would you like instead?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Maybe a bunny or something..."

    "Go eat dirt!" Yun Xiao couldn''t stand her antics any longer. He approached, seized the Sanguine Spirit Serpent Cmity Source with one hand, and pried open her cherry-red lips with the other, pping the Cmity Source into her mouth.

    "Mmph!" Caught off guard, Feng Yao bit down reflexively. Her tongue, supple and strong as an arm, wrapped several coils around Yun Xiao''s finger.

    "What are you doing?" Yun Xiao red. His face was fierce, but the sensation at his fingertips was... indescribably sublime.

    "That hurts..." Feng Yao attempted another bite, aiming to teach him a lesson, but the Sanguine Spirit Serpent Cmity Source surged toward her heart, unleashing its power. The pain made her cry out, her face tightening and tears flowing, pitiful yetpellingpliance as she opened her mouth and rxed her tongue.

    "Don¡¯t move, let me handle this."

    Yun Xiao withdrew his finger, cupped her cheek, and soothed her.

    Meanwhile, the Mortal Dust Devil Seed took direct action, wresting control of all the Mortal Dust Devil Blood in her body, confronting the Sanguine Spirit Serpent Cmity Source right at her heart!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The moment they collided, her delicate body exploded with wild celestial tribtion power. Thousands of crimson blood shadows surged across her body, myriad tribtion blood serpents splitting from the battle with the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, transforming into millions of Sanguine Spirit Serpents invading her organs, bones, flesh, and meridians¡­

    In an instant, she became a raging cocoon of blood, the surging blood tribtion power spreading throughout the entire Zhao Menglin Pavilion, dyeing the celestial arrays blood-red, with the tribtion power of the Sanguine Spirit Serpents sting in every direction!

    "AHHH!" Her body, ravaged by the celestial tribtion power, endured unspeakable pain. The agony erupted simultaneously throughout, each inch of her body throbbing as if pierced by needles.

    She trembled with pain, clutching Yun Xiao like a drowning person. Seated cross-legged and tall, she naturally buried her face in hisp...

    "Stop fussing; the pain will pass soon!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 771: Doted On

    Yun Xiao was sure in his heart; he wouldn''t let her suffer for long.

    He used both arms and legs to embrace the young devil girl, harnessing the power of Mortal Dust Devil Blood. With swift motions, he invoked the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, rapidly assimting the tribtion power of the Sanguine Spirit Serpent, capturing those that surged throughout her body, blending and merging them quickly!

    Throughout this process, the quality of Mortal Dust Devil Blood naturally ascended a level, the cmitous force of the Sanguine Spirit Serpent mingling within it. It did not alter the fundamental nature of Mortal Dust Devil Blood, rather, it induced a bloodline evolution in the cmitous power.

    Before long, the hisses of the countless Sanguine Spirit Serpents within the Mortal Dust Devil Blood morphed into dragon roars. They sprouted dragon teeth, horns, scales, and ws¡ªangrily transforming into dragons, submitting to the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, spreading throughout her entire body!

    No longer destructive, they forged and strengthened, making the physical body of Feng Yao even more formidable.

    "The serpent has turned into a dragon, fitting for your pair of dragon horns," Yun Xiaomented. He grasped her dragon horns with both hands atop her head, giving them a tug, suddenly finding them an apt <em>steering wheel</em> to enhance his force...

    "Ah, don¡¯t, let go..."

    Unexpectedly, this grip caused Feng Yao''s face, which had just calmed, to flush even redder, her voice changing.

    Yun Xiao paused, releasing her dragon horns, and asked, "What''s the matter?""Don''t touch them!" she shot him a re, though unsaid, it was clear¡ª

    Her dragon horns were exceedingly sensitive.

    "The tribtion is sessful, and soon the Corona." Yun Xiao didn''t dwell on unhealthy thoughts but focused above her head.

    Indeed, at that moment, copious amounts of Mortal Dust Devil Blood and the evolved force of the Blood Spirit Dragon gathered atop her head, while a blood mist surged from the heavens and earth.

    "This is the blood baptism power of the heavens and earth. The Corona is the bridge between it and one''s own blood tribtion power. With the Corona, one can wield the power of the heavens and earth more potently."

    The celestial blood baptism power collided with Mortal Dust Devil Blood and the Blood Spirit Dragon''s force. Blood mist, blood drops, and blood tribtion merged together, forming a circr, blood-red halo of light slowly coalescing behind Feng Yao''s head!

    This halo resembled a blood-colored dragon, its tail meeting its head, vaguely showing ws, its presence formidable.

    Amidst the light mist, it was evident that the Corona was formed by a cloud of tribtion light, signifying Feng Yao''s official entry into the First Baptism Realm.

    Yet, she surged forward fiercely, having reached the Mid First Baptism Realm just upon entry.

    "It''s done!"

    In that moment, her eyes suddenly opened wide, the blood tribtion power swirling in her gaze, and the Corona dragon behind her burst forth with ferocious dragon roars. The person and the dragon seemed one,plementing each other, making her appear ethereal yet imperious, enchanting yet pure.

    "Whew..." Feng Yao exhaled deeply, the blood tribtion power gradually retreating back into her, the halo atop her head dimming slightly, turning semi-transparent, less conspicuous, even theyers of tribtion clouds hard to discern.

    At first sight of him, she shot Yun Xiao a re, seemingly ready to throw a bit of a tantrum.

    "Hmph." She suddenly stood up, intending to toss her head and leave him with a cold shoulder.

    "Ah!" Unexpectedly, having sat too long coupled with the unhealed wounds from the blood baptism, she felt dizzy as she rose, stumbling right into Yun Xiao''s arms in a full embrace.

    "What''s wrong?" Yun Xiao asked with concern.

    "My back, my back hurts..." Feng Yao said, her voice filled with a hint of distress.

    "It''s a normal aftermath of undergoing the tribtion. Let me rub it for you," Yun Xiao offered gently.

    "Uh!" Feng Yao quickly pushed him away, her face flushed as she retorted, "Are you sure you were rubbing my back?"

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao paused, still reminiscing the perfect sensation in his palm, and exined, "Don''t get me wrong, it''s just the height difference."

    "Shameless, I''ll never trust you again," she huffed.

    "Come on, don''t act coy after gaining a favor. I want to see the effects of this Corona," Yun Xiao said, getting serious.

    "May it devour you!" No sooner had Feng Yao spoken than her Corona emitted a dragon''s roar, and in a burst of light, it absorbed the celestial blood baptism power, transforming within moments into a nearly tangible blood dragon!

    The blood dragon was fierce and brutal, almost six meters in length, perfectly coiled around her delicate body. The dragon-devilbination had a striking visual impact.

    Seeing this, Yun Xiao''s eyes brightened, pleased, "Your Corona manifests the Aspect of Cmity, belonging to the highest function of a Corona. The Aspect can automatically absorb your celestial power, bing your battlepanion."

    "A mount?" Feng Yao eyed the lifelike Sanguine Spirit Dragon, familiar with its power, and she too was quite satisfied.

    "It''s the Corona, atop your head; it''s riding you," Yun Xiao joked.

    "I don''t care, I''ll ride it." Taking up the yful challenge, she really sat on the Sanguine Spirit Dragon. Then, the devil girl and her blood dragon flew around, their movements fluid and graceful.

    "See that, who''s riding whom?" Feng Yaonded beside him, boasting triumphantly.

    "You ride the dragon, I''ll ride you," a voice mimicking Yun Xiao''s rang out from his robes.

    "What did you say?" Feng Yao looked at him, exasperated.

    "That little shit¡­!" Yun Xiao felt a sudden urge to strangle Red Moon, which had just dropped his own prestige. But upon closer reflection, given his rtionship with her, was there any need for exnations? There was none.

    In her eyes, that was the kind of man he had be.

    "All of Zhao Menglin''s belongings have been secured," Yun Xiao said.

    Seeing him change the subject, Feng Yao stowed her Corona, and asked, "Are we heading to the Harmony Divine Pce now, or are you also entering the Fourth Dao Tribtion?"

    "I''ll try to break through the Taiji Gate first."

    Finding that the Menglin Pavilion was still secure, Yun Xiao decided to take another step.

    Zhao Menglin''s Supreme Immortal Jades had allowed Blue Star and Red Moon to produce more Origin Orbs, a substance far more potent than the life mist of the Gate of Life in enhancing the development of the spirit.

    He sat down cross-legged, and his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit entered the Taiji Gate into the Taiji Spirit ne.

    Feng Yao''s Mortal Dust Spirit Devil did not follow. She silently kept watch beside Yun Xiao, gazing at the divine youth, unknowable ripples stirring within her heart.

    In fact, she cherished the present deeply.

    Their rtionship, thanks to it just being the two of them, had reached its finest hour in history.

    Yun Xiao was increasingly amodating her temperament and personality, his tolerance for her reaching new heights.

    This was a stark contrast to when they first established their Blood Base rtionship.

    Back then, Yun Xiao had treated her merely as a blood ve, almost killing her.

    Today, everything had changed.

    From the moment Yun Xiao learned her true name, it seemed their rtionship had taken a giant leap, and Feng Yao could see a kind of doting affection in his eyes.

    But she knew. Eventually, he would reim the Blood Base, wouldn''t he? To achievepletion? How much longer could this rtionshipst? When they reached the end, would she regret it all and cry?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    She didn''t know. She was oblivious to the end, her nightmare.

    "No more thoughts."

    Fortunately, she was an optimistic soul, incapable of sumbing to mncholy. A bit of sunlight was enough to make her radiant.

    So, she forced a slight smile and said, "Why ponder so much? Better to enjoy the present, which... is truly wonderful."

    There was no Zhao Xuanran, no little white tiger. Days like these still had some time left.

    "And besides, as long as he doesn''t kill me, then the person he can''t do without... is me."

    With that thought, she felt joyous and ted, even contemting a dance in the dim corridors of the Menglin Pavilion.

    "What are you doing? Hopping and skipping like that?" The young man''s voice suddenly echoed from behind.

    Feng Yao paused, turning to ask, "You''re done that quickly?"

    "Naturally, it wasn''t hard at all," Yun Xiao replied.

    His Buddha''s Treasure Spirit had just entered the Taiji Spirit ne and absorbed some of the Taiji Essence before he returned.

    Unquestionably, that ce was perfectly suited for his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit!

    "Are you forming your Corona now?" Feng Yao inquired. She harbored a bit of schadenfreude, curious to see Yun Xiao in agony. Maybe she would embrace him then?

    As she fantasized, Yun Xiao remarked, "I checked around; none of the remaining Cmity Sources seem to suit me, better to wait. Once you choose one, there¡¯s no turning back."

    "You''re really something, using the ordinary for me and waiting for the better stuff for yourself," Feng Yao said.

    "It''s good to have any at all, don''t be picky! Besides, the power of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood evolved your Cmity Source, and even though you''re just in the First Baptism, your Corona is better than many in the Third Baptism Realm," Yun Xiao exined.

    "This Zhao Menglin seems powerful; what baptism was she at?" Feng Yao asked.

    "She was probably in the Third Baptism Realm, surpassing you by two major realms," Yun Xiao chuckled. "Too bad, she met a monster like me; didn¡¯t even get to use her Corona."

    "You really did..." Feng Yao was still somewhat baffled by his instant defeat of Zhao Menglin.

    "Come here." Yun Xiao beckoned to her and said, "The Sanguine Phantom is Divine Heaven grade; it''s time for an upgrade. There are two Mid Heaven Defying grade weapons, aside from the Sword Hearts, they were Zhao Menglin¡¯s most valuable possessions. She didn¡¯t use them because she had a Sword Soul and instead nned to sell them."

    As he spoke, Yun Xiao produced a spear. The spear, three meters long, emitted a chilling mist, its body ice-blue like crystal, exceedingly sharp. Its appearance turned the entire Menglin Pavilion into what seemed an ice cavern, bitterly cold to the bone.

    "Ice Soul Mystic Spear." Yun Xiao swung the ice-blue spear. "It inherently possesses the power of destion, very hard material, suitable for you as a long weapon."

    Feng Yao caught the spear, her face cringing from the cold. Disdainfully, she said, "I don''t like cold things. What about the other one?"

    "The other is a bow and arrows, not suited for you," Yun Xiao replied helplessly.

    "Who says it''s not suitable? It''s perfect for me, I love bows and arrows!" Feng Yao quickly eximed.

    "You''re a devil, aren''t you? Practicing both the blood art and closebat techniques. Shooting arrows from afar is a waste of your physical abilities," Yun Xiaomented.

    "Who says shooting arrows doesn''t use physical strength? It requires even more, actually! And do you really think I like closebat? That''s far too dangerous. It''s safer from a distance..." Feng Yao argued, embodying the spirit of a true wastrel, trying to convince Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao knew her reasoning well enough.

    "A clod of mud cannot be wall-stered," he said, resigned, tossing the bow and arrow set to her.

    "Underestimate me and watch out¡ªI might just shoot you with an arrow to the butt!"

    With a huff, Feng Yao''s eyes then settled on the weapon in her hands, growing more pleased the longer she looked.

    "Nethersea Dragon Bow, Blood me Dragon Arrows."

    The Nethersea Dragon Bow was pitch-ck, shaped like a curved, angry dragon, its surface covered in dragon scales, containing vast deste power, burning with ck fire.

    The Blood me Dragon Arrows, blood-red in color, were also covered with dragon scales, burning with scarlet blood, their tails like dragon tails, their presence ominously striking.

    <em>TWANG! </em>Feng Yao gave the bowstring of the Nethersea Dragon Bow a pluck, its force ferocious.

    The dragon bow was actually quiterge, perfectly suited to her stature.

    Seeing her delight in the treasure, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but smirk, dousing her enthusiasm with, "Honestly, you''re really not suited for the bow and arrow."

    "Why would you say that!" Feng Yao protested.

    "Back in the Cloud Nation, female archers bound their chests tightly to prepare for battle. You¡¯re too ample; the string will catch, affecting your uracy," Yun Xiao exined earnestly.

    Feng Yao responded with a bitten lip, indignantly, "uracy doesn''t matter¡ªI''ll specialize in shooting you!"

    "..." Yun Xiao stared at her, speechless. He couldn''t be bothered with her anymore; let her do as she wished!

    Gathering his thoughts, he felt it was time to move on. "We''re setting off for the Harmony Divine Pce now; it''s up to you."

    No sooner had he spoken than suddenly¡ª

    <em>BANG! BANG! BANG! </em>Urgent knocks thundered at the doors of the Menglin Pavilion!

 Chapter 772: Palace Section!

    When Zhao Menglin closed her doors for business, her celestial formation would be active. Ordinary visitors would know not to knock, and especially not with such force!

    "Does this mean the visitor ranks above Zhao Menglin?" Feng Yao asked as she put away her Nethersea Dragon Bow and Bloodfire Dragon Arrows.

    "Not necessarily, could be someone close to her," Yun Xiao replied, pulling out the ck jade array matrix. Under hismand, the device swirled with thick mist and shifting lights, revealing through its haze a young girl knocking from outside.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Is there another way out of this Menglin Pavilion?" Feng Yao asked. She used to ignore such matters, but now, she was getting involved.

    "None. The formation can open, but breaking through the wall might cause a stir."

    After all, they were on Harmony Street, the busiest in Harmony City.

    "Then we wait," Feng Yao said with a pout.

    Approaching the door, they saw it still thundering from the knocks, the other side relentless.

    "Auntie! Open up quick, the Pce Selection at Harmony Divine Pce is about to start! Hand me the Ice Soul Mystic Spear!"The knocking girl''s voice was sharp, clearly not one to be trifled with.

    "She''s also trying to enter the Harmony Divine Pce; that Ice Soul Mystic Spear is likely her ticket in. Without it, she won¡¯t leave, holding us up," Feng Yao grumbled.

    This girl was calling Zhao Menglin auntie, which meant she was her sister¡¯s daughter.

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, where no male lineage existed, the title of aunt held an intimacy only second to that between mothers and daughters, or sisters.

    "Zhao Menglin! You¡¯re messing around with lilies again, aren¡¯t you? So annoying, just give me the Ice Soul Mystic Spear, and I¡¯ll leave you be!" The girl outside didn¡¯t leave, instead, her shouts grew louder, drawing the gaze of many passersby.

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao got a glimpse into Zhao Menglin¡¯s <em>lifestyle</em>. Decisively, he handed the Ice Soul Mystic Spear to Feng Yao, saying, "Open the door, hand this to her, and if she asks, tell her Zhao Menglin isn''t here."

    "You think that''ll work?" Feng Yao paused.

    "Try it. We can''t afford more dys." Yun Xiao urged.

    If they had left earlier, they wouldn¡¯t have been caught right at the door.

    It wasn¡¯t that they feared the knocking girl, but on Harmony Street, unfamiliar as they were, and Yun Xiao having looted Zhao Menglin, they were not without guilt.

    Feng Yao then took the Ice Soul Mystic Spear to the door, shouting, "Stop knocking, here Ie!"

    The noise outside ceased abruptly, and she cracked open the heavy iron door, protected by its streaming celestial formation.

    Through the gap, they saw a young girl in purple who bore some resemnce to Zhao Menglin, hands on hips, her gaze coldly meeting Feng Yao¡¯s.

    "Take it!" Feng Yao tossed the Ice Soul Mystic Spear out.

    The girl in purple took the Ice Soul Mystic Spear, examining it closely, confirming it was precisely what she had sought.

    With the key item for the Pce Selection in hand, her tense emotions rxed. She muttered to herself, "What a drag!"

    After speaking, she turned to leave.

    But Feng Yao hadn''t even had the chance to sigh in relief when the girl, still cradling the spear, turned back and asked, "Where¡¯s my aunt? Too busy to even put on a shirt ande see me?"

    "She''s out, not here," Feng Yao replied.

    "Not here? Busy on such an important day as the Pce Selection? She couldn''t evene to see how I''d perform?" The girl rolled her eyes, clearly annoyed.

    Feng Yao offered no response, following Yun Xiao¡¯s earlier advice, and began to close the door.

    "Hey!" The girl in purple suddenly red at her, sizing her up. "You must be Wanyan Guifen, right!"

    <em>House of Wanyan, Fragrance of Osmanthus? </em>Feng Yao almost winced at the name.

    Just as she was about to deny it, Yun Xiao quickly advised her to affirm it.

    "So what if I am?" she retorted.

    "I never thought you''d be a devil. My aunt''s taste inpanions is getting weirder!" The girl eyed Feng Yao curiously, then said, "What are you standing there for? Let''s go!"

    "Go?" Feng Yao raised an eyebrow.

    "Didn''t my aunt mention in her flying talisman that I should take you with me to the Pce Selection? If you''re not willing, just say so. You''re wasting my time," the girl said, pouting.

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao pieced the story together.

    Zhao Menglin was known for her dalliances with numerous women, recently getting involved with someone named Wanyan Guifen, though her whereabouts were unknown.

    Coincidentally, the girl in purple had mistaken Feng Yao for Wanyan Guifen.

    Considering Yun Xiao¡¯s concern about a devil girl like the War Princess participating in the Pce Selection, having someone familiar might provide a foundational identity, reducing scrutiny.

    "Go with the flow," he advised Feng Yao.

    Not one to miss a cue, Feng Yao grasped Yun Xiao¡¯s intent and responded, "Then I''m grateful for the help, sis."

    "Hmph." The girl in purple scoffed, clearly looking down on Wanyan Guifen, butpelled by her aunt¡¯s influence, she waved dismissively, "Keep up, don¡¯t get lost."

    "Alright." Feng Yao then stepped out of Menglin Pavilion. When she straightened up, the girl in purple, barely over five feet tall, didn''t even reach her chest.

    ¡°What in zes, they''re bigger than my head, freak! Everyone mingling with that aunt of mine is abnormal." The girl in purple craned her neck to look up at the towering figure before her, her heart taking a slight hit as she cursed inwardly, "Makes sense¡­ I guess you have to be that tall to lug those massive things around¡­"

    As she stewed in her thoughts, Yun Xiao emerged from the Menglin Pavilion. Although he slightly bowed his head, the girl captured his striking features at a nce.

    She paused, a strange and novel difort rising within her. She suddenly felt like vomiting!

    "Damn it! I felt a flicker of interest for a mere ve, utterly disgusting."

    Growing up in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, a woman would never admit to such <em>attraction</em>; her mind cleared with a churn of her stomach.

    She really wanted to kick these two out, but ncing at the Ice Soul Mystic Spear in her hand, she suppressed the nausea to ask, ¡°Is this ve yours, or my aunt¡¯s?¡±

    ¡°He was left to serve me,¡± Feng Yao responded.

    Knowing the ve belonged to Zhao Menglin held back the girl¡¯s impulse to strike him.

    Her reaction was understandable! It was like suddenly finding a lump of dung appealing, only to realize what it truly was, leaving one feeling as if they¡¯d consumed it.

    "Let¡¯s get out of here, damn it all!" The girl in purple, face full of disgust, waved dismissively and strode away with the Ice Soul Mystic Spear.

    Yun Xiao smoothly closed the doors of the Menglin Pavilion, exchanging a nce with Feng Yao.

    "Wanyan Guifen," Yun Xiao slightly smirked.

    "Grow up," Feng Yao shot him a look, hurrying after the girl in purple.

    "She¡¯s called Zhao Mengmeng," Yun Xiao reminded.

    "How do you know?" Feng Yao asked, surprised.

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen her flying talismans with Zhao Menglin,¡± Yun Xiao exined.

    Feng Yao realized then why he had boldly allowed her to assume such an identity; he had his reasons.

    ¡°What if the real Wanyan Guifen shows up?¡± Feng Yao asked softly.

    ¡°What you need to do is secure your footing in Harmony Divine Pce before she does,¡± Yun Xiao advised.

    With that, she felt the pressure mount. Pressure turned into motivation. She gritted her teeth, thinking, having entered the Fourth Dao Tribtion, what was there to fear! Bring it on!

    Yet, curiosity lingered, and she whispered, ¡°How do two women manage... that sort of thing?¡±

    ¡°How would I know? I¡¯m not a woman,¡± Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Then, what about two men?" she asked curiously, pushing boundaries.

    "Do I look like I''m interested in men?" Yun Xiao retorted, his tone t.

    As they conversed privately, the girl in purple, Zhao Mengmeng, suddenly turned and cautioned, "There are a few sisters with me, all notable figures. When you meet them, keep your words few and stay off to the side."

    "Understood," Feng Yao nodded.

    Zhao Mengmeng then dismissed her.

    Soon, the three had left Harmony Street. Just beyond, Yun Xiao observed a celestial pnquin, white as a pce and ethereal as a cloud. Below it, thousands of young men with pale faces bowed low in the snow, motionless as turtles.

    "Wouldn''t it be faster to power this pnquin with celestial power? Why rely on manpower?" Feng Yao questioned, puzzled by such a disy.

    "People live forparison," Yun Xiao exined. "The phenomenon exists because men, unlike celestial power, are scarce. So even if celestial power is more effective, they choose manpower to showcase their superiority."

    "How do you know everything, always ready with an exnation?" Feng Yao scoffed.

    "Looking at you, one would think you had three heads and knew nothing," Yun Xiao shot back.

    Feng Yao was left speechless.

    Zhao Mengmeng then ascended into the snowy white pnquin.

    Yun Xiao, of course, could not follow; he waited below.

    "Am I really going?" Feng Yao, unfamiliar with such proceedings, was visibly uneasy.

    "The pig''s fattened, now it must learn to run," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "You can''t live without teasing me, can you?" Feng Yao gritted her teeth.

    "Yup," Yun Xiao agreed.

    "Damn it..." She bit her lip, muttering under her breath as she stepped into the pnquin, while Yun Xiao stayed behind.

    "Brothers, hello," he greeted the male ves beneath the pnquin.

    They looked up at him with dim eyes, then quietly shifted, making room for Yun Xiao to join in carrying the pnquin.

    "Well then..." Yun Xiao sighed.

    With a thunderous start at Zhao Mengmeng''s urging, the 1,000 ves began to run, carrying the pnquin with a stability rivaling that of a divine ark¡ªa skill in itself.

    Yun Xiao joined them, his gaze sweeping over the faces around him¡ªeach different yet marked by the same dazed, hollow misery, as if they lived in purgatory but were forced to smile.

    Each had their own story, their own origins, but now, they shared the same scripted life of suffering.

    Living was pain, yet death was not an option.

    How many among the myriad of beings suffered so?

    As they raced through the icy world, inside the luxurious pnquin, a few privileged youngdies enjoyed their leisure, the peace of the ages, infortable splendor...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "The pig''s fattened, now it must learn to run," Yun Xiao remarked.</blockquote>

    <strong>Then, fly! - JL</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 773: Forge an Era Where Women Reign Supreme!

    Seated within the pnquin, young maidens adorned like spring itself, held delicate white jade cups, theirughter light and easy, their spirits free.

    "Mengmeng," a girl in a teal dress whispered, nodding towards a figure in the corner as she spoke to Zhao Mengmeng. "Your aunt''s new favorite¡ªwhat''s her story?"

    Zhao Mengmeng eyed Feng Yao, a cold smile ying on her lips. "What story could there be? She''s just a ything from some vige."

    The girl in teal frowned, unsurprised. "Honestly, with looks and a figure like hers, she¡¯d be a sensation in any other world¡ªfought over, no doubt. A pity she''s born in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, where no one cares, save for a few like your aunt."

    "Lin Wan, you''re thinking too much. Even if she were from another world, what then? The nature of the universe is survival of the fittest. A woman with only beauty and no inner talent is just a toy from the start, only the yers grow stronger," Zhao Mengmeng scoffed.

    "Perhaps you''re right," Lin Wan nodded.

    "Honestly, if not for this Ice Soul Mystic Spear, I wouldn¡¯t have had her share our pnquin. We sisters are destined for greatness. Crossing paths with us is the fortune of her lifetime." Zhao Mengmeng rolled her eyes.

    "Even your aunt, at her age, should just drink from the Divine Spring and strengthen our n with some heirs. Instead, she indulges in decadence, drawing idle gossip," Lin Wan spoke with a hint of disdain.

    "I don¡¯t understand her either. For vulgar desires, she forsakes the bright path of Immortals. To be a boundless Immortal, one must cut off worldly desires. She fails even this basic truth; no wonder she¡¯s nothingpared to my mother," Zhao Mengmeng caressed the Ice Soul Mystic Spear. "Honestly, I''m actually doing her a favor by epting her gift.""Let¡¯s leave it at that. Everyone has their own fate. We all pursue different things." Lin Wan shook her head sadly.

    Zhao Mengmeng polished the Ice Soul Mystic Spear, her eyes alight with resolve and steadfast determination for the path of immortality.

    "With this spear in hand, for our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, I will forge an era where women reign supreme! Let those lowly beasts who speak filth learn who truly are the noble beings!" Zhao Mengmeng dered passionately.

    "Exactly!" Lin Wan clenched her fists. "The divine decree states, the distinction of gender is not between male and female, but between the noble and the base! This is a war to prove who are the true noble beings. We shall triumph and all the lowly ones will kneel before us, trampled underfoot. The world began with the Mother of Creation¡ªfeminine power is the ultimate force in the universe!"

    Their voices rose, not just to each other but audible to all around, including Yun Xiao.

    Feng Yao, bewildered, muttered, "Are they sick?"

    Yun Xiao silently agreed, "It seems so."

    But sadly, this was the belief of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Yun Xiao could only be thankful that the Samsara Gxy held but one Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    He had known many good women¡ªfrom Zhao Xuanran, who pledged to y demons, to Yu Nichang, who stood up against the Three Immortals in the Primordial Ruins, to Cao Shuo of the Celestial Court, untouched by worldly desires. They were all great in his heart, never proving their worth through superiority, yet still respected and revered.

    Why, then, must there be such bitterness and division, an insistence on hierarchy between the sexes?

    Yun Xiao couldn''t make sense of it.

    Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan, upon seeing Feng Yao''s beauty, were filled with envy and disdain, dismissively belittling her without restraint. They were utterly unguarded in their contempt.

    Many of the young maidens had joined their ambitious charge, their blood boiling as they shouted their battle cry.

    And their target was the Harmony Divine Pce!

    Leaving the city behind, they gazed toward the towering snow-capped mountains ahead. Amidst the swirling snowkes, the vast, endless outline of a grand pceplex was barely discernible!

    The eye could hardly epass such a vast sanctuary.

    How vast was the Harmony Divine Pce?

    To Yun Xiao, it seemed like a Great Dao Celestial Realm sprouting from the surface of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªa single pce epassing the magnitude of a fundamental Celestial Sourcecore!

    This was indeed the heart of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Above, countless streams of pale white light swirled, condensing into dazzling rays, the lights dancing like phoenixes, 1,000,000,000 snowkes swirling through the air...

    Yun Xiao found himself at a loss for words to describe the breathtaking beauty of this ce.

    ¡°A miracle of creation, truly beautiful¡­¡±

    Regardless of the hearts of those in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, such beauty could not be obscured.

    It was a beauty that could make anyone gasp in delight!

    As a mortal soul who had stepped into this realm of Immortals, Yun Xiao was profoundly shaken by this mythic vista.

    ¡°Incredible!¡±

    From within the snow-white pnquin, the white curtains fluttered open, and the young female Immortals emerged, their cheers echoing.

    ¡°So beautiful¡­¡± Feng Yao marveled, her eyes dreamily lost in the scene.

    ¡°What are your thoughts?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Uh... I kinda wish you were standing here beside me, enjoying this snowyndscape together,¡± Feng Yao said softly, earnest and slightly moved.

    ¡°That''s more than I deserve, your highness to my lowliness,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°Get lost, you fool,¡± Feng Yao retorted.

    ¡°Harmony Divine Pce!¡±

    Suddenly, a thrilled cheer from Zhao Mengmeng snapped Yun Xiao''s attention forward. Through the cloud and snow, the first thing that came into view was a majestic pce built upon the heavens.

    The pce was circr, entirely cloaked in solemn ck, resembling a coiled serpent with its tail wrapping around, and its highest tower shaped like the torso of a giantess.

    This was the Harmony Divine Pce! To be a disciple, one had to pass the Pce Selection, held today at this very site.

    "Immortal women only, lowly ves and dogs keep out!"

    Yun Xiao had been about to enter when these floating words stopped him dead, leaving him speechless.

    Meanwhile, the pnquin halted, and the thousand young ves shrunk back, not daring to lift their heads in this sacred ce.

    Only Yun Xiao, standing among them, cast his gaze far and wide. From all corners of thend, pnquins descended before the Harmony Divine Pce. Tens of thousands of young celestial maidens emerged, each as spirited and lovely as Zhao Mengmeng, their beauty vibrant as spring birds¡ªeach with a fierce will andpetitive spirit glowing in their eyes.

    This was a ce thatmanded respect.

    "What shall we do?" Feng Yao, seeing all the ves stop, turned to Yun Xiao.

    "You go in andpete. If you seed, you can use your own estate to grant passage to your ves," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Just me?" Feng Yao said weakly.

    "Stand tall, learn from the fighters beside you," Yun Xiao urged, his gaze intense.

    "Them? Hah." Feng Yao, already frustrated, felt a surge of defiance at his words and bit her lip. "Let them see what I''m capable of."

    "Wanyan Guifen, will you hurry up already?!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Feng Yao was fired up, but Zhao Mengmeng''s shout nearly broke her.

    "Damn it, I need to get rid of that name fast."

    After mentally rallying herself, Feng Yao followed into the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Just as Yun Xiao had learned her real name was Feng Yao, she had to go by another. What if it stuck? Her heart skipped as she thought this, but then a voice inside encouraged her.

    "Show them what you''re made of, Wanyan Guifen!"

    At that, Feng Yao¡¯s mind raced with fury. "Argh, all men are scum! To hell with them!"

    Yun Xiao watched her merge with the crowd into the pce, a fatherly smile on his face.

    "You''re just going to wait here?" Blue Star, bored, leaned on his shoulder.

    "Of course not." His gaze passed the Harmony Divine Pce, peering into the icy vastness of the Harmony Divine Pce deep within. "Let''s take a stroll inside the pce."

    "You nning to steal something?" Blue Star perked up.

    "Steal? Only the powerless steal. I take openly." Yun Xiao chuckled.

 Chapter 774: Snow Fairy

    Tens of thousands of young celestial maidens floated gracefully into the Harmony Divine Pce, facing the most crucial test of their lives.

    Outside the pce, tens of thousands of celestial pnquins remained parked.

    The number of celestial ves carrying each pnquin reached into the millions, a testament to the noble lineage of these celestial maidens, surely descendants of the mighty ns from various regions of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, 1,000 times grander than the Celestial Court, naturally attracted an astonishing congregation of elites.

    Looking around, those celestial women who had received the Harmony Rings indeed radiated a Corona of their own, their heads surrounded by a divine glow, exalted above all, as if they were the offspring of countless divine emperors.

    And these were merely the young celestial talents, desperate to enter the Harmony Divine Pce...

    ¡°Is the Harmony Divine Pce strong, or is the Ancestral Land that Lil Xi entered stronger? Is the Ancestral Land in the Heavenly Deity Ster River?¡±

    So far, Yun Xiao had gathered information only about the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, with nothing yet on the Ancestral Land.

    The ves outside the Harmony Divine Pce were exceedingly numerous!He quietly slipped away from the crowd and into the mist, unnoticed by anyone.

    The ves, devoid of emotion, waited dully.

    Yun Xiao skirted around the Harmony Divine Pce.

    His Prison Warden Sigil returned to the center of his forehead, opening a violet eye.

    This was the first form of the Prison Warden Sigil, Soulfire Eye!

    This eye offered a broader perspective than Yun Xiao''s current eyes, more sensitive to celestial formations.

    "The Harmony Divine Pce is immense, and so are its celestial formations."

    He bypassed the pce and entered the ethereal expanse of endless mountains and ravines. Everywhere he looked, whether pce walls or courtyards, were covered in celestial formations. A slight misstep might rm the Immortals here.

    Yun Xiao did not fly on his sword; instead, his white robe fluttered amidst the majestic peaks, carefully avoiding the celestial formations.

    "The celestial energy here is indeed dense, almost like a liquid, 1,000 times denser than the Celestial Court. It''s a pity that it''s all the Yin attribute, too monotonous," mused Yun Xiao as he moved along.

    Despite its vastness, the Harmony Divine Pce was not densely popted; with millions of mountain peaks and pce courts, it seemed each female Immortal might own a mountain or a pce.

    Yun Xiao entered the Harmony Divine Pce like a mosquito flying over ake, causing no stir.

    "With tens of thousands entering the Pce Selection, and Yao Yao drawing ate number, I have plenty of time to wander."

    Yun Xiao let himself roam freely within the grounds of the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Fortunately, the mountain-protecting formations weren''t active; otherwise, Yun Xiao might not have even made it to the outeryers.

    The world before him was one of ice, snow, and numerous cold rivers.

    Everywhere were ice crystals, snowkes, cold dark tides, and frosty pools, and even the trees were of a frost-resistant pale white.

    Yun Xiao queried the little ck beast perched on his shoulder, "Find anything?"

    The creature, with its four eyes darting about, seemed more interested in sniffing than seeing. Red Moon, though obscured by the dense belly fur, possessed nostrils quite keen, busying himself alongside Blue Star, sniffing through the icy wilderness.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "These women are stingy hunters," Blue Starined. "Such a vast mountain and not a treasure in sight."

    "Let''s keep looking," Yun Xiao replied, his patience unshaken.

    He was waiting for Feng Yao to secure her discipleship at the Harmony Divine Pce, without which they couldn''t proceed with other ns. Dressed in white, his figure was nearly invisible against the snow. He delved deeper into this world of perpetual frost. The steep mountains, dense forests, numerous valleys, dark streams, and abysses¡ªall perfect battlegrounds should the need arise.

    After some time wandering without luck, just as Yun Xiao was about to leave, both Blue Star and Red Moon eximed simultaneously, "We smell it!"

    "What do you smell?" he asked casually.

    "The scent of a Cmity Source!" Blue Star dered.

    "Milk! Rich and creamy!" announced Red Moon.

    Ignoring Red Moon, Yun Xiao turned to Blue Star, "Your nose is quite remarkable, to smell a Cmity Source?"

    "Such natural treasures born from the world itself cannot escape my senses," Blue Star boasted.

    "Let''s see then, check if you''re boasting," Yun Xiao said.

    "Heh," Blue Star could onlyugh. Could it be wrong?

    Following his guidance, Yun Xiao descended into an abyss where the air grew colder, revealing an underground ice river below.

    "The milk! It¡¯s getting richer!" Red Moon looked ahead, excited.

    "Are you both sensing the same spot?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It means there¡¯s treasure, and people too," Blue Star cooed.

    "A mommy!" Red Moon said excitedly.

    "Calm down, the mommies belong to our bro, not you," Blue Star bluntly retorted, dousing his excitement.

    Red Moon wailed, his cries filling the icy passage, causing Yun Xiao to re. "Keep it down, or you''ll draw the wrath of some Heavenly Monarch, and we''ll both be doomed," he cautioned.

    He tucked the little ck beast into his embrace, moving quietly along the crystal-clear river flowing beneath the earth. The river shimmered like a flow of crystals, its icy rity enhancing the secluded beauty of the ce.

    "Up ahead, the river cascades into a waterfall, and behind that fall lies a cave. The scentes from within," Blue Star whispered eerily.

    "Alright."

    Yun Xiao drifted forward like a gust of wind, soon hearing the roar of the waterfall.

    Indeed, the river plunged over an edge, forming a curtain of water.

    With the noise masking his movements, he approached more boldly and paused mid-air beneath the cascade. The spray drenched his hair, misting his face as he faced the <em>curtain </em>formed by the waterfall.

    "There''s someone inside, but their presence is faint, hardly a threat."

    With this in mind, Yun Xiao skipped the usual precautions of scouting with his spirit first.

    Without another word, he shot through the waterfall''s curtain like a white shadow, entering the cave beneath.

    The mist parted, and the cavern opened up around him.

    This was a natural ice cave, devoid of any celestial formations, a ce seldom visited.

    The cave wasn''trge, filled with hanging icicles dripping cold water, their drips echoing in the quiet.

    "The Cmity Source!" Yun Xiao advanced a few steps and soon saw it.

    On the icy floor ahead,y the Cmity Source, not housed within an icy slip but resembling a cluster of white clouds.

    For a moment, Yun Xiao was unsure of the nature of this Cmity Source.

    Yet, he felt this object was of high quality and perfectly suited for his primordial void celestial power, potentially very useful.

    Its cloud-like appearance might be a disguise. It was said that some of the most vicious Cmity Sources appeared harmless, only revealing their true trouble once consumed.

    Generally, without a clear understanding of a Cmity Source''s type or examples of its refinement, most would hesitate to use it for crossing tribtions; after all, with over 1,800,000,000 types of Cmity Sources, many rare ones were not easily identified at a nce.

    Yun Xiao wasn''t one to ignore his instincts. So, he strode forward in a few quick steps, ready to secure the cloud-like Cmity Source with an icy slip. Just then, he heard an odd sound.

    "Hah, hah¡­!" It was a suppressed, almost unbearable female voice, inherently seductive, making Yun Xiao''s ears tingle with numbness.

    He paused, pushing the eager Red Moon down, and nced sideways.

    The location of the Cmity Source opened into another ice crystal cave, and that peculiar sound had emerged from this second chamber.

    What he saw next ignited a fire within him. The celestial beauty was so perfect, and few women could dazzle Yun Xiao at first sight.

    But the woman before him did just that! Shey upon a rectangr block of ice that resembled a bed.

    Her wless snow-white hair spread out across the ice, like a snowke made of icicles.

    Beneath that mane was a perfect face, framed by pure pink eyes thatplemented her snowy locks, imparting an ethereal, wless beauty akin to a sprite of the snow.

    Her demeanor had some semnce to Divine Dawn, both embodying a pure beauty. Yet, unlike Divine Dawn who sometimes appeared childlike and slightly fierce, this woman with white hair and pink eyes bore a mature, timeless grace.

    Her gaze was as deep as the sea, as misty as a dream, clothed in pure white and soft pink...

    What captivated Red Moon the most was the sight of two pearl-like treasures trembling lightly in the air, as sweet as anything on earth.

    Indeed, she was pristine, unadorned, presenting herself purely and simply before Yun Xiao.

    As he reached for the Cmity Source, their eyes met¡ªhis and hers, the pink eyes that held the world.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 775: Diva?

    At that moment, Yun Xiao saw an array of emotions reflected in the girl''s eyes¡ªrage, shyness, confusion, and pain¡ªall mingling together.

    Yun Xiao himself wasn''t as emotionallyplex; his gaze was purely one of admiration for beauty, especially since he hadn''t anticipated that a woman, seemingly frail in spirit, could be so stunning. None of the tens of thousands of spirited little celestial maidens outside could match her allure.

    Of course, there was one aspect of her that Yun Xiao found slightly unsettling.

    Instead of legs, she had a serpent''s tail.

    This tail, adorned with alternating pink and white scales, coiled gracefully upon a bed of ice crystals. Visually, the delicate blend of pink and white on the shimmering icy tail was strikingly beautiful. However, from a mortal''s perspective, Yun Xiao found it hard to reconcile the image of a person with that of a serpent''s tail.

    He was certain she was human, not a demon nor a half-demon. Her serpent tail might have been linked to some unique lineage. Despite the serpentine features, her origins were unmistakably human.

    Such a woman, with the body of a human and the tail of a serpent, was indeed a marvel in the path of immortality!

    At that moment, she bit her lip, her eyes brimming with tears, appearing exquisitely vulnerable and moving. Even Yun Xiao felt a surge ofpassion.

    "Save... save me..." It was then she spoke, her voice as soft as a dream, perhaps the most melodious Yun Xiao had ever heard."Save you?" Yun Xiao paused, noticing no visible injuries on her.

    But upon closer inspection, he discovered an abnormal weakness about her. A strange white mist seemed to be wreaking havoc inside her, swirling throughout her body like a ferocious beast threatening to burst her open.

    She held on for a while, her face turning deathly pale as shey limp on the ice crystals, her pink lips and delicate fingers trembling, her eyes losing their luster.

    "Please, save me..." Her voice was tinged with a cry of pain, sounding profoundly distressed as she writhed on the ice crystals. Her fingers naturally moved downward, resting somewhere on her serpent tail...

    Perhaps finding the right spot, a blush of pink and white blood finally rushed to her cheeks!

    Plumes of white mist rose from between her trembling fingers. Only then did she find some relief. But it was only a slight improvement.

    "There, help yourself..."

    This scene made Yun Xiao''s head buzz with confusion.

    Indeed, the world was vast, filled with endless wonders...

    He finally understood that this girl with the serpent tail was afflicted by some intense poison. She needed to release this venom, and there was only one way to do so. The effects appeared simr to an aphrodisiac!

    Despite her struggles, she had not cured the deadly toxin, only alleviated the agony of impending death.

    Yun Xiao watched helplessly as she trembled pitifully on the ice crystals, hysterical and shedding desperate tears.

    "Help, please help me... you may be a ve, but you still have hands..." the serpent-tailed girl, nearly soulless, pleaded tearfully.

    "Uh..." Yun Xiao was at a loss, his mind a whirl. Scratching his head, he muttered, "Saving a life is more meritorious than creating a seven-tiered pagoda. I''m willing to save you under normal circumstances, but the problem is your lower half. A snake is a bit too much for me."

    As his words fell, the pink and white tail on the ice transformed, morphing into wless, long jade legs. Before him now was a perfect celestial being.

    "ve,e, I''ll grant you a lifetime of blessings..."

    Her eyes misty, her voice dreamlike.

    "Alright."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In a daze, Yun Xiao endured a harrowing half-hour. As it turned out, his efforts were effective.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    During that half-hour, the swirling white mist finally dissipated.

    The venomous beast within her was subdued and dispelled by Yun Xiao, turned to ash and smoke.

    The entire process¡ªher relief, the tender murmurs, and each microexpression¡ªwas unforgettable.

    Atst, shey limp on the ice crystals, eyes closed,shes quivering as if ascending to paradise, deeply asleep.

    Yun Xiao, considerate as ever, found a garment to cover her. And as he cast onest nce, he couldn''t help but marvel: she truly was a devastatingly beautiful girl.

    After his reflections, Yun Xiao noticed a few droplets of blood on his right hand, and he couldn''t help but sink into deep thought.

    "Oh, I''ve really done it now¡­!" Yun Xiao muttered, covering his face in dismay. "It''s alright, it''s alright. I was just saving her; she wouldn''t me me," he reassured himself, feeling somewhatforted by the thought.

    "Yao Yao''s battle is soon; I can''t stay here long." Yun Xiao gathered his things, preparing to leave.

    "Hmm?" Just then, as his heart gave a sudden lurch, he nced back at the ice crystals.

    Unbeknownst to him, a radiant Corona had begun to form slowly behind this heavenly female Immortal with snowy hair and pink eyes.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Corona, majestic as a crown of snow-capped mountains, wielded an awe-inspiring power.

    "So, she''s in the Fourth Dao Tribtion? It seems that strange white mist did indeed weaken her." Yun Xiao felt relieved. It meant the girl would be able to take care of herself upon waking.

    Just as he was thinking this, the Corona shimmered, as if ayer of tribtion clouds had been added.

    "The Second Baptism Realm? So young and already so powerful; she''d be considered a prodigy even in the Harmony Divine Pce," Yun Xiao remarked with a slight sense of awe.

    But in the next instant, the clouds on her Corona kept multiplying.

    "Two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight... Damn!" Yun Xiao''s vision blurred. She was in the Eighth Baptism Realm?

    That would make her a Ster River Overlord throughout the entire Samsara Gxy.

    "Shoot, shoot, shoot..." Yun Xiao''s mind went nk.

    This girl was so powerful; once she truly awoke, and given their shared ordeal, might she not chop him into mincemeat?

    "Yun Xiao, run!" Blue Star, equally stunned, urgently cried out.

    It too was worried about its bottom line!

    "Right!" Yun Xiao started to run, but then a thought struck him, and he stopped in his tracks.

    "What are you doing?" Blue Star demanded, eyes wide.

    "Just a moment."

    Yun Xiao turned back to the girl, retrieving the garment he had just ced over her, and then produced a talisman, enveloping her in its radiant light.

    "What''s that?" Blue Star asked, nestled against him.

    "A Projection Talisman, it can broadcast that kind of thing," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Damn, you''re trying to tarnish her reputation?!" Blue Star got excited. "That''s great, I love this kind of evil n."

    "It''s not evil, it''s for self-preservation."

    With this talisman in hand, if she ever tried to kill him, he''d have some means of retaliation.

    Once Yun Xiao had secured the talisman, he quickly made his escape.

    As he passed the cave''s entrance, he casually pocketed the Cmity Source, muttering, "Saving your life justifies a small service fee, right?"

    With those words, he burst through the waterfall and vanished into the distance.

    Not long after, the ice crystal cave, the waterfall, the icy river, and the abyss all vanished under a pink light...

    A figure with the body of a human and a serpent''s tail surged out, causing mountains and rivers to copse for miles.

    "Diva!"

    From within the Harmony Divine Pce, numerous reverent cries echoed.

    <em>RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE! </em>The massive disturbance even caused the Harmony Divine Pce itself to quake.

    "What''s going on?"

    The celestial maidens whispered among themselves, seeking answers. Soon, the news came back.

    "It was that Diva who appeared!" Zhao Mengmeng said with immense reverence.

    "Which one?" Lin Wan asked eagerly.

    "The youngest one, who''s attempting to be a Boundless Immortal. I wonder if she seeded?" Zhao Mengmeng spected.

    "Silence!" A stern rebuke finally quieted the chaotic crowd, and a solemn atmosphere settled once again.

    Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan stuck out their tongues and shut their mouths, no longer daring to speak aloud.

    "Damn it¡­"

    Feng Yao was puzzled, her heart suddenly echoing with Yun Xiao''s voice.

    "What are you damning about? I''ve been calling you for half an hour with no reply," Feng Yao said, exasperated.

    "Uhh, I got caught up with a serpent..." the Mortal Dust Devil Seed muttered.

    "Serpent? What are you talking about?" Feng Yao asked, confused.

    "Uh... never mind, business as usual. I''ll wait outside for your good news," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Alright, as long as you''re not dead. I thought you were gone for a moment there," Feng Yao chuckled.

    With that, she felt a bit more at ease herself.

    After all, her turn wasing up soon!

    "By the way, do you remember the Divine Imperial Son?" Feng Yao asked with a lightugh.

    "Of course," Yun Xiao replied.

    "I just did some digging. That guy''s a fraud. He''s not any <em>Imperial Son</em>. In the Samsara Gxy, all the Immortal sects follow a disciple ranking system. Divine Bud Disciples are actually the lowest rank; above them are Ster Sea Disciples, Taiji Disciples, and Samsara Disciples. If I make it into Harmony Divine Pce this time, I''ll be a Divine Bud Disciple," Feng Yao said disdainfully.

    "So it turns out, shameless indeed," Yun Xiao agreed.

    "Hey, you seem distracted. What were you really up to?" Feng Yao inquired, suspicious.

    "Nothing, nothing..."

    Outside the Harmony Divine Pce, Yun Xiao gazed at the tumultuous smoke and clouds over the pce, lost in thought.

    Not getting a response, Feng Yao huffed, "Forget about you then, it''s my time to shine!"

 Chapter 776: Three Valkyries!

    Within the Harmony Divine Pce, the first round of the Pce Selection neared its end.

    Throughout the process, numerous celestial maidens of exceptional talent stood out. Amid apuse and envious gazes, they fulfilled their dreams. There was even one peerless fairy who stood out from the tens of thousands. She won the special regard of the pce¡¯s high echelons. She seemed destined to soar to the heavens!

    In the grand hall of the pce, three revered Valkyries were in charge of the selection.

    These Valkyries belonged to the core power of the Harmony Divine Pce. They stood above Divine Bud Disciples, Ster Sea Disciples, Taiji Disciples, and Samsara Disciples.

    Seated in the most honored positions at the front of the hall, one had to crane their neck to look upon them.

    To the left sat a Valkyrie with ice-blue hair, her strands falling like a cial waterfall. Her face, a portrait of frosty allure, was set in eternal cold, her gown the color of deep ice. Her very presence seemed to freeze the air around her.

    ¡°I just heard about her,¡± Feng Yao whispered to the Mortal Dust Devil Seed nestled within her heart. ¡°She''s called Bing Xuanqing, the Frost Valkyrie. She''s from the Ice Lineage. Their faction has grown strong in recent years.¡±

    Yun Xiao, having regained his usual demeanor, turned his attention to the Divine Harmony Pce¡¯s inner dynamics.

    ¡°Looks like an old ice queen who¡¯d freeze you out if you so much as blinked her way,¡± hemented, observing her aloof elegance.¡°Old? She looks pretty young to me,¡± Feng Yao retorted.

    Indeed, in the Cloud Nation, she would pass for merely in her twenties, the peak of her allure.

    ¡°A shame she¡¯s so cold,¡± Yun Xiao mused, finding no beauty in her icy demeanor. ¡°Apart from the Ice Lineage, there are two others, right?¡± he asked, piecing together information from Zhao Menglin¡¯spendium.

    ¡°Yes, one is the Snow Lineage, and the other is the Sea Lineage,¡± Feng Yao confirmed.

    ¡°All water-based,¡± Yun Xiao chuckled.

    ¡°Women are like water, inherently gentle and enduring,¡± Feng Yao pointed out.

    ¡°Do they seem gentle to you?¡± Yun Xiao countered, his gaze sweeping over the fiercelypetitive, envious celestial maidens around them.

    Caught without an answer, Feng Yao quickly shifted the topic. ¡°The other two Valkyries also decide our fate. The one on the right, Dantai Han, belongs to the Sea Lineage, while the one in the center is Xue Yuening of the Snow lineage.¡±

    Through the eyes of Feng Yao, Yun Xiao could see Dantai Han to his right: a woman with lush, dark green hair, her figure more voluptuous, her eyes as deep as oceans, exuding an immense presence.

    Yet her lineage¡¯s prominence wasn¡¯t in the vast dao of the sea, but in its chilling gloom¡ªher aura felt like a sea of shadows and frost, where no life could endure.

    So, the sharp cold of the Ice Lineage and the bleak gloom of the Sea Lineage cast an ufortable pall over the hall.

    In the center, the Valkyrie of the Snow Lineage, Xue Yuening, seemed purer, more untouched by the world.

    Yun Xiao was surprised to see that this woman appeared a bit older. Her long white hair was likely her natural color, not a sign of aging. Her face also bore the gentle marks of time, contrasting with her less statuesque posturepared to the other two Valkyries.

    Not only was Feng Yao keenly observing them, all the celestial maidens remaining in the Harmony Divine Pce were anxiously watching these three Valkyries. Their futures within the Pce, which lineage they would join, all hinged on the decisions of these three.

    It was a moment that would define their destinies!

    The Ice Lineage with the Frost Valkyrie! The Sea Lineage with the Sea Storm Valkyrie! The Snow Lineage with the Moon Lemon Valkyrie!

    ¡°The selection for entering the pce consists of two phases.

    ¡°The first phase involves each group choosing ten for a melee. There¡¯s no need to fight until only a few remain; instead, they must demonstrate their abilities within the chaos for a span of 100 breaths. Each Valkyrie may choose one candidate to advance to the next phase, or none at all¡­ of course, they might all choose the same person.¡±

    In this first phase, a Valkyrie¡¯s choice was crucial. For instance, if the Frost Valkyrie selected someone to progress, and they seeded in the second phase, they would automatically join the Ice Lineage. If more than one Valkyrie chose the same individual, the disciple could choose their lineage.

    ¡°And the second phase?¡± Yun Xiao casually asked.

    ¡°There¡¯s a supreme celestial treasure called the Harmony Divine Crown with nine Yin Stars on it. It measures the depth of one¡¯s Corona, revealing one¡¯s talent for the Fourth Dao Tribtion. The more Yin Stars that shine, the greater the candidate''s potential. At least three must light up for a candidate to officially be a disciple of the Harmony Divine Pce,¡± Feng Yao exined with anticipation.

    ¡°Nine Yin Stars? The Harmony Divine Crown? Have you seen it?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Not yet, the second phase of the selection hasn¡¯t started. But I heard that the crown used in the selection is just a replica, still, it has seven Yin Stars, which are sufficient for the selection,¡± Feng Yao responded.

    ¡°What would it mean if all seven Yin Stars light up?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°That would be incredible,¡± Feng Yao replied, ¡°They say lighting up five stars could grant a chance to be a Valkyrie. Six, and one might be a Valkyrie Princess. That''s already a high honor.¡±

    To light up all seven stars would likely rival the effect Yun Xiao once achieved at the Sword Ruins.

    ¡°It¡¯d be interesting if they used the real Harmony Divine Crown for the test,¡± Yun Xiao chuckled.

    ¡°What are you thinking? They¡¯re measuring the Corona. Minees from a Sanguine Spirit Serpent. Though it has evolved, it might not be that powerful. I¡¯m even afraid it won¡¯t light up three Yin Stars,¡± Feng Yao said with a twist of her mouth.

    She wasn¡¯t being modest; she trulycked Yun Xiao¡¯s boundless confidence.

    ¡°Just get through the first hurdle. If the three Valkyries don¡¯t choose you, I might just have to bail you out,¡± Yun Xiao remarked.

    ¡°Underestimate me and prepare to be proven wrong!¡± Feng Yao retorted.

    As she spoke, suddenly, the steward beneath the Valkyries called out her Harmony Ring''s number and name.

    "Number 53,162, Wanyan Guifeng, please step forward!

    Thismanding shout stirred the blood, yet it couldn''t help but draw a chuckle from Yun Xiao.

    "Annoying¡­!" Feng Yao hummed in annoyance as she stepped onto one of the icy battlefields.

    It must be said that the three Valkyries were formidable; within the grand hall of the Harmony Divine Pce, numerous battles raged, yet they precisely identified the most skilled participants through their performances.

    Only those selected in this melee of ten could advance to test their Corona talent in the second phase¡ªa crucial stage indeed.

    And these Valkyries had to be discerning, keen not to overlook any hidden talent whose Corona depth might reveal a genius.

    Feng Yao was the first to enter the icy battlefield! Her tall figure and enchantingly demonic beauty immediately drew many eyes.

    Some stood out even amongst tens of thousands of exquisite celestial maidens, like a crane among chickens. To be radiant without vulgarity¡ªthat was true peerless beauty.

    "Bone age, 17."

    As she stepped onto the icy battlefield, the celestial formation on the ground unexpectedly disyed her age.

    "This devil girl is so young, and she''s already in the Fourth Dao Tribtion?"

    "Where did this geniuse from? I''ve never heard of her before..."

    "Her thighs go all the way up to my neck!"

    "Truly impressive."

    "Indeed, one of her is worth ten of you."

    Whispers of various tones¡ªcurious, cold, and mixed feelings¡ªquietly arose around them.

    "Wanyan Guifen!"

    Feng Yao suddenly heard a cold and unpleasant voice. Turning around, she saw a young girl in purple stepping onto the battlefield, her gaze toward Feng Yao somewhat frosty.

    "Well, what a coincidence?" Feng Yao hadn''t expected to be grouped with Zhao Mengmeng, whom she had registered with. It seemed the Harmony Divine Pce had somewhatzily grouped them by their registration numbers.

    "Bone age, 27."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The celestial formation revealed Zhao Mengmeng''s true age as well.

    She looked no more than 15 years old; unexpectedly, she was a decade older than Feng Yao.

    But that was normal here in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm; celestial maidens under 50 typically appeared very youthful, and even the slightly mature women might be hundreds of years old.

    Of course, before 50 years old was the explosive period of rapid advancement in cultivation.

    Even Yun Xiao felt tempted to step onto the celestial formation himself, wondering if it could reveal something infinitely great¡­

    "Stand behind me!" Zhao Mengmeng held no real malice towards Feng Yao; she was merely irked that this little devil girl, relying merely on her beauty¡ªa trait scarcely valued in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªdrew more attention than herself.

    "Alright," Feng Yao nodded.

    Soon after, Zhao Mengmeng''s friend, Lin Wan, joined them. She was 28 years old, nearly the same age as Zhao Mengmeng. The two were clearly nning to stick together in the chaotic fray of ten.

    "What are your strengths?" Zhao Mengmeng asked, her gaze coldly sizing up her opponents, as she spoke to Feng Yao.

    "Some blood arts, maybe some backstabbing?" Feng Yao said.

    "As a devil, aren''t you supposed to be in the front line with your strong physique?" Lin Wan said incredulously.

    "I can''t. I''m afraid of dirtying my face," Feng Yao replied tly.

    She knew these two looked down on her, yet they pretended to be allies, which she found quite tedious.

    "Your face?"

    Hearing this, their disdain for Feng Yao deepened.

    "Fine, just stand there and be part of the background," Zhao Mengmeng dismissed her, having no real expectation of Feng Yao entering the Harmony Divine Pce beyond merely going through the motions.

    And then, their group of ten wasplete.

    They had only 100 breaths to showcase their worth!

    Zhao Mengmeng''s eyes hardened, and she whispered to Lin Wan, "To truly impress the Valkyries, we must take on the hardest challenge. You and I together against seven. If we defeat them, our entrance to the pce is guaranteed."

    "I was thinking the same," Lin Wan replied coldly.

    Their alliance was obvious, and the other seven celestial maidens caught on quickly.

    Everyone wanted to prove themselves! No one could afford to be targeted and eliminated in a sh! Nor could they simply linger in the background!

    They were all astute, quickly discerning Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan''s intentions and adjusting their strategies ordingly.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The moment the steward announced the start of the battle, the seven other celestial maidens unexpectedly banded together, unleashing their Sword Souls, Life Sigils, celestial weapons, and Coronas in a concerted assault, whipping up a storm of icy clouds toward Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan!

    "Master!"

    At the high tform, beside the frosty-haired Frost Valkyrie, a young woman in ck leaned forward and spoke, "That girl there is my sister, Zhao Mengmeng. She''s already in the Establishment stage of the First Baptism Realm and could reach the Second Baptism Realm by 30 years old."

    The Frost Valkyrie nced at Zhao Mengmeng and responded, "Her talent is no less than yours, and her courage and spirit might even surpass it. I might grant her a spot. If she shines under the Harmony Divine Crown, I might take her in as a disciple as well."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Fine, just stand there and be part of the background," Zhao Mengmeng dismissed her, having no real expectation of Feng Yao entering the Harmony Divine Pce beyond merely going through the motions.</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 777: The Birth of an Archery Goddess!

    "Thank you, Master!" The girl in ck hurried to express her gratitude, her features bearing a resemnce to Zhao Mengmeng.

    Her name was Zhao Menn, already a Ster Sea Disciple of the Harmony Divine Pce, her rank surpassing even the Divine Imperial Son!

    "That little Inscription Immortal by her side is also noteworthy. I shall rmend her to the Sea Storm Valkyrie," the Frost Valkyrie said, her voice detached.

    Zhao Menn beamed with joy, quickly offering thanks, then added, "I believe they won¡¯t disappoint you."

    Behind her, numerous senior sisters of the Harmony Divine Pce stood on an elevated spot,ughing and chatting as they watched the neers below.

    "See that? Menn¡¯s sister!"

    "Indeed impressive!"

    "To take on seven with just two, remarkable!"

    "They are certainly the best of today."At the highest point, rmended by the Frost Valkyrie, the Sea Storm Valkyrie, from the Sea Lineage, also took notice of Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan.

    The Sea Storm Valkyrie''s expression was serene, a profound aura about her, her demeanor more open to smiles than the Frost Valkyrie, her face blooming like peach blossoms.

    "Since the Frost Valkyrie has her eye on them, they must be notable talents. I shall dly ept the rmendation," the woman with lush, dark green hairughed.

    The two, standing to either side, somewhat ignored the Moon Lemon Valkyrie in the middle, encircling Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan, discussing the courage and mettle of this generation''s young women...

    <em>KLANG! </em>Zhao Mengmeng, grasping the Ice Soul Mystic Spear, stood like a young general unmatched in her era, d in purple celestial armor. Her prowess as a Martial Immortal shone brilliantly, the Corona above her head like a dark abyss, pouring down a torrent of chilling currents, gathering around her spear!

    <em>BOOM! </em>With a clear shout, her spear thrust forth like a dragon, one girl with her spear sweeping oppressively towards the seven!

    Behind her, Lin Wan''s hand transformed a Life Sigil into a frigid rotating de. As the de roared, it whipped up mountains of snow, forming numerous blizzard grinders, following closely behind Zhao Mengmeng, like an avnche in fury!

    One Martial Immortal and one Inscription Immortal, both were in the Establishment stage of the First Baptism Realm!

    Among their seven opponents, the strongest were still in the Perfect stage of the First Baptism Realm. So, they struggled against this divine might.

    Had these opponents been younger than Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan, disying such strength could still have won them a ce even in defeat. Sadly, they were all over 30 years old, and a defeat left no chance!

    "Our only chance is to fight!"

    Each of the seven unleashed all their skills. For a moment, Flying Swords, Life Sigils, and celestial weapons hung in the sky like seven heavens, whipping up storms and rain, shing violently with Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan!

    "Turn it around!" Zhao Mengmeng, with a lift of her spear, boldly withstood the onught of the seven, her dominance unrivaled.

    "You''re the first!" Her eyes fixed on a short-haired, robust woman d in iron armor, a fellow Martial Immortal.

    With a twist of her weapon, a tempest of snow and ice whirled into being, morphing into a chilling blizzard that surged towards her opponent!

    As the spear struck, the armored woman''s face twisted in sudden fear, her visage overtaken by terror.

    Witnessing this, Zhao Mengmeng couldn''t help but smirk inwardly.

    "Such a weak opponent. To dazzle the crowd seems far too easy!"

    With a coldugh, she advanced swiftly, covering ten paces with each step, her spear thrusting forward!

    "Break!"

    However, just as her proudughter rang out, a deadly force suddenly shed by her side!

    "Ah!" Zhao Mengmeng was instantly covered in a cold sweat.

    This force was too strong, too fierce, too ruthless, and too fast!

    Zhao Mengmeng saw it! It appeared to be a blood-red arrow! It emerged in an instant, shed by her side like a blood dragon, and in a blink, it sank its fangs into the thigh of the iron-armored woman!

    <em>THUNK! </em>The force of the arrow hurled the armored woman from the icy battlefield, sending her tumbling several hundred meters before she rolled to a stop on the ground.

    Her face pale, she scrambled to her feet, her voice quaking as she yelled, "I surrender!"

    Onepetitor down!

    This sudden turn of events drew gasps from the onlookers, leaving Zhao Mengmeng frozen in ce.

    A name came to mind, and she spun around sharply!

    Sure enough, in the distance stood a devilishly beautiful girl over seven feet tall, one hand on her bow, the other retrieving a Blood me Dragon Arrow. Her ck hair exploded outwards, her leather attire entuating her formidable figure, both awe-inspiring and breathtakingly captivating!

    However, for Zhao Mengmeng, it was a bitter pill to swallow. She was supposed to be the one in the spotlight!

    "Wanyan Guifeng, what are you doing?!" Zhao Mengmeng trembled with fury, her grip on her spear shaking.

    "Covering for you?" Feng Yao responded with a slight smile.

    "You..." Zhao Mengmeng fumed internally, wishing she could smash that smug face.

    "Mengmeng, watch out!"

    Just then, Lin Wan''s urgent voice cut through. A Flying Sword had breached Lin Wan''s defenses, seizing the moment of Zhao Mengmeng''s distraction with Feng Yao to target her from behind!

    The situation was perilous!

    Zhao Mengmeng snapped to alertness, realizing she was still outnumbered in this fight, her face draining of color as cold sweat broke out.

    In that instant, Feng Yao moved with practiced ease, drawing her bow and nocking an arrow.

    With a whoosh, the Blood me Dragon Arrow transformed into a dragon, streaking forward with terrifying speed. It mped onto the Flying Sword aimed at Zhao Mengmeng''s head!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The blood arrow pierced through, doubling back before the female Sword Immortal could react, prating her shoulder de and flinging her out of the arena!

    "We''re a team of three, right? Don''t hold us back," Feng Yao called out, retrieving her Blood me Dragon Arrow and twirling it in her hand, her gaze on Zhao Mengmeng rxed and mocking.

    Zhao Mengmeng''s heart nearly split in two! She had been saved by her! This was more agonizing than if Feng Yao had struck her down herself.

    She had considered Feng Yao a useless vase, and now here she was, impotent and furious. But she was still lucid enough to know this couldn''t go on.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Thank you!" She red at Feng Yao through gritted teeth, spear in hand, and charged at the third opponent.

    "Die!" Her spear surged forward, the air howling with the roar of ice and snow.

    <em>THUNK! </em>A blood arrow flew, finishing her opponent before she could.

    "Ah!" Zhao Mengmeng almost spat blood in frustration, cursing Feng Yao 1,000 times over in her heart.

    She rushed towards the fourth opponent!

    <em>THUNK!</em>

    "ARGH!" Zhao Mengmeng nearly burst with rage.

    Then, the fifth opponent!

    <em>THUNK!</em>

    The sixth, and the seventh¡­!

    <em>THUNK!</em>

    Just as Zhao Mengmeng aimed to strike, thest two were impaled by a single arrow from Feng Yao, sending them flying out of the arena, scaring them into surrendering immediately!

    "The three of them work too well together; we stand no chance."

    "Indeed! One''s ying the fool up front, another just watching, and the real killer movees from that archer."

    At 17 years old, Feng Yao was a devilish prodigy, unmatched and unchallenged!

    Zhao Mengmeng was already boiling with anger, but the remark about her ying the fool up front sent her reeling. It was like a knife to her pride. Dark blood filled her mouth as her anger reached its peak, forcing her to swallow it back down.

    "Wanyan Guifeng...!"

    Her eyes bloodshot, she spun around, ready to strike.

    "Time''s up. Wait for the verdict of the Valkyries."

    The steward''s words nearly brought her to tears.

    All her efforts seemed for naught!

    Beside her, Lin Wan, recalling her own scorn for Feng Yao, felt her face burn with shame.

    Though not a single Blood me Dragon Arrow struck them, each one pierced their hearts...

    The melee thatsted but 100 breaths ended in a profound silence across the Harmony Divine Pce!

    <em>CLAP! CLAP! CLAP! </em>Eventually, some began to apud, their admiration aimed at Feng Yao.

    As for Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan, they became mere backdrops in a battle that fell far short of their hopes of a grand debut.

    "Will the Valkyries still choose us?" Lin Wan asked, her voice trembling.

    "I don''t know!" Zhao Mengmeng''s eyes darkened with blood, teeth clenched, "It''s all because of that wretched devil bitch; she''s ruined our futures!"

    "She did save you with one arrow..."

    "If she hadn''t stolen my kill in the first ce, do you think I would have been exposed to that Flying Sword?" Zhao Mengmeng hissed venomously.

    Lin Wan paused, her look growing somber, then nodded in agreement.

    Meanwhile, Feng Yao silently stowed away her Nethersea Dragon Bow and Blood me Dragon Arrow.

    Zhao Mengmeng knew these weapons well, but she mistook this as Wanyan Guifeng being doted on by Zhao Menglin!

    "These two girls are real pieces of work," Yun Xiao sneered.

    "It doesn''t matter." Feng Yao huffed, "As long as I can advance to the next phase and wear the Harmony Crown, that''s enough."

    "If I were you, I would have skewered them both first with my arrow," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "You are you, I am me; why would I want to be like you?" Feng Yao retorted, exasperated.

    "Fair enough..." Yun Xiao gave a dry chuckle, then murmured, "Still, you handled that bow and arrow quite impressively, quite the professional."

    "Of course! I practiced this till I was 13 years old," Feng Yao dered proudly.

    "Why did you stop practicing after 13 years old?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "None of your business!" Feng Yao bit her lip, visibly irritated.

    "When you shoot, the string tends to get caught, right? I told you, all female archers are princesses of the ins, not the high peaks; be careful, or one day you might shoot something precious out."

    "Shut up!" Feng Yao was so agitated she felt like pounding her own chest, annoyed, "And don''t underestimate me, I believe skill can cover any natural disadvantage."

    "Err..." Yun Xiao fell silent for a long while, then said, "That''s not a disadvantage, most people would call it an asset..."

 Chapter 778: Extreme Yin Divine Physique

    A curious battle unfolded, Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan fiddled at the front for ages, but failed to dispatch a single foe. Meanwhile, Feng Yao, a young and talented devil girl, caught the eye of many.

    However, the final say rested with the three Valkyries.

    In a moment, many eyes turned towards the high seats.

    Tension filled everyone''s hearts, especially for Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan, who had already clenched their jaws in frustration.

    Failing to enter the Harmony Divine Pce would surely spur them to vengeance.

    This was precisely why Yun Xiao wouldn''t have shown any mercy.

    "Master¡­" Zhao Menn stood among the disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce, practically pleading as she looked down at her little sister.

    Her gaze towards Feng Yao, however, was a chilling blend of depth and cold indifference.

    The Frost Valkyrie hardly hesitated before dering, "Though Zhao Mengmeng has not vanquished her opponent, she possesses both strength and talent; I choose her."Upon hearing this, the Sea Storm Valkyrie chimed in with a delicate voice, "Then I shall take Lin Wan, provided she passes the next phase of the selection."

    This oue was unusual. Normally, the three Valkyries would vie for Feng Yao, leaving no chance for the others. Yet, considering theplexities of human rtionships, this seemed fitting enough.

    A few arrows to repel enemies were indeed insufficient to sway the Frost and Sea Storm Valkyrie.

    So, all eyes then turned to the Moon Lemon Valkyrie of the Snow Lineage. Compared to the others, she appeared unassuming and serene, her presence neither sharp nor smooth, like a snowke with its own tale.

    She pointed gently at Feng Yao and whispered, "You stay, child."

    The verdict was clear!

    While only Feng Yao had truly dazzled, the three Valkyries had each chosen a different candidate, ensuring everyone had a share.

    One disciple for each lineage! This setup foreshadowed future rivalry. Who would thrive the most? That, of course, would depend on the Harmony Crown!

    The selection continued with a few more celestial maidens being picked, while those who had passed the first hurdle awaited the next.

    Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan, faces set in cold determination, positioned themselves one on either side of Feng Yao.

    ¡°You sure are crafty, pretending to be naive before us, then setting us up for embarrassment,¡± Zhao Mengmeng said with a piercing gaze.

    ¡°It wasn¡¯t an act; you just looked down on me out of your own arrogance. As for the future, it¡¯s each to their own skill. If you were truly skilled, you wouldn¡¯t have embarrassed yourself,¡± Feng Yao replied, no longer needing to tolerate them since they were of no further use to her identity.

    ¡°You!¡± Zhao Mengmeng''s eyes shed murderously as she stared at Feng Yao, thenughed bitterly. ¡°A filthy Yin Devil like you has no right to strut around me. You brought this upon yourself, and I won¡¯t be med.¡±

    ¡°Step back.¡± Feng Yao was short on patience herself and had no pleasant face to offer.

    This dismissal only stoked the fire in Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan.

    ¡°It seems this base devil really thinks she¡¯s favored by the Valkyries, about to climb up high and kick us benefactors aside,¡± Zhao Menn sneered.

    ¡°Benefactors?¡± Feng Yao was dumbfounded. Just because they shared a ride to the Harmony Divine Pce, they considered themselves benefactors?

    ¡°There¡¯s no use talking to someone so ungrateful, Mengmeng. There¡¯s still the trial of the Harmony Crown ahead. Some might be celebrating too early. Devils inherently have lesser Corona talentspared to humans, and Yin Devils are nothing but lowly servants to men in the Samsara Gxy. An utterly debased race. Do you really think her Corona will be recognized by the Harmony Crown?¡± Lin Wan said coolly.

    ¡°Exactly.¡± Zhao Mengmeng shrugged and sneered at Feng Yao. ¡°Lucky for you, you were born in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, or else your body would be dirtier than a bitch¡¯s, yed by a thousand, right?¡±

    With that, they linked arms, satisfied with their tirade, and walked away, having vented all their spite.

    Feng Yao clenched her fists, grinding her teeth. ¡°I should have listened to you and dealt with these two on the spot!¡±

    ¡°Live and learn. Don¡¯t give scoundrels the chance to insult you,¡± Yun Xiao advised from within her heart.

    ¡°I know,¡± Feng Yao sighed, pained. ¡°But why, being women themselves, would they use the plight of Yin Devils to degrade me?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s because you¡¯ve seen too little. Women can be crueler to each other than men,¡± Yun Xiao exined.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a bit biased?¡±

    ¡°I speak only of what I¡¯ve seen.¡±

    ¡°Alright then.¡± Feng Yao didn¡¯t bother arguing further.

    ¡°Just remember this: if no one bothers me, I bother no one. But if someone bothers me, it¡¯s to the bitter end,¡± Yun Xiao instructed.

    ¡°Oh, sure!¡± Feng Yao sounded impatient, but a small smile yed inside her heart.

    Yun Xiao urged her towards violence for her own good. Cultivators couldn¡¯t keep their frustrations bottled up; it would only weaken them in the end.

    ¡°The most anticipated part of the first phase is up next!¡±

    ¡°Dantai Mo is about to take the stage.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s said that the Sea Storm Valkyrie is personally overseeing this selection because her daughter is performing.¡±

    "She''s already in the Mid stage of the Second Baptism Realm at 16 years old. That''s the highest out of anyone today. I wonder how many Yin Stars she''ll light up on the Harmony Crown!"

    Excitement bubbled within the Harmony Divine Pce, reaching a fever pitch.

    Under the watchful eyes of all, a girl with dark green hair made her entrance, stepping onto a battlefield encased in ice.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The girl radiated a chilling aura, like a cold, deep pool. Standing near her sent shivers down one''s spine, no matter how warmly one was dressed.

    She bore a striking resemnce to the Sea Storm Valkyrie but seemed even more delicate and coldly beautiful. In the hall, she stood out like a crane amongst chickens, her beauty elevated and refined.

    For a moment, all eyes remaining in the Harmony Divine Pce were fixed on Dantai Mo!

    "The Extreme Yin Divine Physique¡­" The Frost Valkyrie, her eyes wide with shock, turned to the Sea Storm Valkyrie and asked, "How did you achieve this?"

    The Sea Storm Valkyrie smiled, replying nonchntly, "The old ways¡ªhunting divine beasts and drinking from the Divine Springs during pregnancy."

    "How many-hearted beasts?" the Frost Valkyrie pressed, her lips tight.

    "I was lucky. I caught a seven-hearted one, the Darkmoon Serpent. When that child turned 16 years old, she happened to awaken the Extreme Yin Divine Physique," the Sea Storm Valkyrie spoke lightly, the corners of her mouth curling with pride.

    Indeed, she was here to boast!

    Seizing the asion of the Pce Selection to announce her daughter''s Extreme Yin Divine Physique talent sent ripples through the assembly.

    Should her daughter, Dantai Mo, reach grand heights, her own status would naturally rise with the tide.

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the bond between mother and daughter was paramount, more significant than any sisterhood or mentorship.

    Clearly, envy and jealousy was poorly concealed flickered in the Frost Valkyrie''s eyes.

    The Sea Storm Valkyrie relished that look!

    The revtion of the Extreme Yin Divine Physique indeed caused a sensation in the Harmony Divine Pce.

    As the Sea Storm Valkyrie had anticipated, she and her daughter became the focal point of the day.

    "Congrattions to the Sea Storm Valkyrie."

    Starting from the Frost Valkyrie, many offered their congrattions, their eyes filled with envy and awe.

    "In time, Dantai Mo will be a leading figure of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡­"

    "A top figure across the entire Samsara Gxy!"

    And the girl with the dark green hair lived up to expectations. In the ten-person melee, she faced nine opponents alone!

    At 16 years old, in the Mid stage of the Second Baptism Realm, she surpassed Feng Yao by an entire realm, truly dominating the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Even with just one hand, Dantai Mo sent nine opponents flying.

    "Truly worthy of the Extreme Yin Divine Physique, one of the top Martial Immortal talents of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! Her body as vast as the ocean, her palms like tidal waves, magnificent and indestructible," the Frost Valkyrie murmured in admiration.

    The Sea Storm Valkyrie could hardly conceal her pleasure at these words.

    In the Ice, Snow, and Sea Lineages, each boasted its champions among Martial, Sword, Inscription, and Anima Immortals.

    Yet, the signatures of their power varied.

    The Ice Lineage valued Sword Immortals, sharp and piercing.

    The Snow Lineage held Inscription Immortals in high regard, masters of change and intricate arrays.

    Lastly, the Sea Lineage revered Martial Immortals, especially those like Dantai Mo with the Extreme Yin Divine Physique.

    The Extreme Yin Divine Physique was as unfathomable as the cold sea. A profound power hidden by a fragile appearance. Each punch and palm from the owner of this physique could split the mountains and seas. They possessed immense resilience that was unshakable as the vast ocean.

    Dantai Mo showcased the quintessential martial talent of the Sea Lineage.

    Next to such prodigious talent, Zhao Mengmeng seemed like a mere crab before a whale.

    So upon Dantai Mo''s entrance, Zhao Mengmeng found herself in awe, turning to Lin Wan, "See that? That is the true peerless talent of our Extreme Martial Immortals, a standard for all female Immortals."

    "Indeed impressive¡­"

    Facing nine alone, sweeping them all with a single palm, and without exerting full strength, even Lin Wan, an Inscription Immortal, had to acknowledge Dantai Mo''s superiority.

    Given that it was the Sea Storm Valkyrie who had provided her with a ce, Lin Wan was already pledging allegiance to Dantai Mo.

    "Once you''re in the Sea Lineage, remember to pull some strings for me!" Zhao Mengmeng told Lin Wan.

    "Don''t worry," Lin Wan nodded.

    As Dantai Mo''s dazzling appearance concluded, so did the first phase of the Pce Selection.

    If the first phase was basic, the uing second phase was where the real excitementy, the moment for true talents to emerge!

    The depth of one''s Corona determined the path of the Fourth Dao Tribtion!

    All other talents paled inparison at the Fourth Dao Tribtion; only the Corona truly dictated how far each celestial maiden in the Harmony Divine Pce could go.

    From tens of thousands ofpetitors, only about 8,000 now qualified to don the Harmony Crown¡ªa still sizable number.

    "Bluey, think about it, drinking from so many mommies, how long would that take?" Red Moon mused drunkenly.

    "Stop dreaming! Our bro won¡¯t let you have a drink; he considers all milk in the entire realm off-limits," Blue Star chuckled.

    "Damn, so selfish and greedy!" Red Moon cursed.

    "Don''t be sad, Reddy. At least in one aspect, you''re much stronger than our bro," Blue Star whispered conspiratorially.

    "In what way?" Red Moon perked up.

    "Think about it. When facing the same goal, you drink milk. Our bro shoots it out. Aren''t you stronger than him?" Blue Starughed.

    Red Moon paused, then eximed in shock, "Can''t I just drink what our bro shoots out?"

    Blue Star almost choked midughter. He smacked the face on his belly and yelled in exasperation, "Why would you drink that? Be careful you don¡¯t end up pregnant yourself!"

    "Well, if I do, can''t I just have you give birth through your mouth?"

    "We''re guys, you fucking dumbass!!"

    "Right, we just managed to grow a pair of balls a few months ago!"

    "..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 779: Devil Girls Crown!

    Fortunately, the ridiculous exchange between Blue Star and Red Moon happened with Yun Xiao''s true self outside the Harmony Divine Pce, or else he''d find himself too ashamed to show his face.

    What was up with these two!?

    Back inside, where the Pce Selection was still being held, the Moon Lemon Valkyrie headed into a secret chamber. Before long, she returned with the Harmony Crown and unveiled it before the 8,000 remaining candidates.

    It was a crimson serpent crown studded with seven different colored gems. These currently dim gems were likely the Yin Stars.

    Through Feng Yao''s eyes, Yun Xiao could not discern the true material of the Harmony Crown; it seemed rather ordinary.

    "It might be your limited experience, or perhaps because it''s merely a replica, used only for testing one''s Corona talents."

    The seven stars on the crown indicated that it wasn''t the real Harmony Crown. The true Harmony Crown held nine Yin Stars and was a supreme celestial artifact of the Harmony Divine Pce...

    "As soon as your name and number are called up, quickly don the crown!"

    Only those whose Coronas lit up at least three gems could enter the Harmony Divine Pce!Inside, tension gripped the 8,000 celestial maidens; each one held their breath, their faces pale, unable to utter a word.

    This was the most crucial moment of their lives!

    The first phase was ten-person free-for-all, where each individual could defy fate on their own merits. Then, what of the Harmony Crown in the second phase? It depended on innate talent and fate; they could only wait for destiny to reveal its answers...

    The first girl in blue stepped forward. Delicate and seemingly fragile, she looked as if a strong wind might carry her away.

    Yet, it was said she had shownmendable bravery in the melee of ten, earning her spot from the Moon Lemon Valkyrie.

    Under the watchful eyes of all, she took a deep breath, her hands trembling as she gently lifted the Harmony Crown. Closing her eyes, she slowly ced it upon her head.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The crown, like a vortex, settled upon her brilliant white Corona. The Corona intertwinedyer byyer with the crown, their powers merging, the Yin Stars on the crown beginning to twinkle with light.

    "This should be good!" some murmured, their eyes wide in anticipation.

    Atst, a dazzling starlight shimmered on the Harmony Crown, illuminating the hall.

    "Uh..."

    The expressions of the 8,000 celestial maidens instantly grew odd. Some found it tragic, others couldn''t help but snicker.

    "Chen Ling''er, a 1-Star Corona, unqualified, eliminated!"

    A voice, cold, unfeeling, and mechanical, thundered in the ears of the girl in blue, resonating like a storm.

    She shivered, tears streaming down her cheeks even before she could remove the crown.

    With a sharp intake of breath, Zhao Menn, a Ster Sea disciple of the Harmony Divine Pce and sister to Zhao Mengmeng, appeared before the girl in blue.

    She held up the Harmony Crown and red. "How many times must we stress this? Do not let your cheap tears tarnish the sacred Harmony Crown. In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, no one sympathizes with a woman''s tears!"

    "Yes..." The girl named Chen Ling''er, heartbroken and despondent, stepped down from the tform.

    "Hurry up, what''s with the dawdling?"

    "You''re wasting time!"

    "Useless bitch, get out of the way!"

    In the harsh light of reality, the notion of women supporting women seemed like a cruel joke. The celestial maidens below the stage scorned Chen Ling''er for her slow descent, almost wishing they could kick her themselves.

    And Chen Ling''er, her gaze dim, saw the mocking and indifferent looks directed at her, some from friends she once vowed to make a name with in the Harmony Divine Pce, now strangers.

    No one would linger on her any longer.

    "Why? I did my best, I was stronger than the others, why..."

    No one would answer her.

    "How pitiful, it''s hard to watch!" Feng Yao murmured from a corner, witnessing the girl''s lonely departure. "Such a blow, it must be hard for her to stand again."

    "She will keep going," Yun Xiao said.

    "Why?" Feng Yao asked.

    "Because I hope all who chase their dreams can be a bit braver. Bravery is never shameful," Yun Xiao replied.

    "You hope, and she will?" Feng Yao pressed.

    "Human envy runs wild, but we must keep faith in human courage," Yun Xiao stated. He didn''t know whether she would fall or rise, but he chose to hold on to a hopeful heart.

    One by one, the celestial maidens ascended the stage of fate. Some lit up 3 stars, crying with joy. Some failed to light up more than 1 star, weeping in sorrow. Life seemed to fork here, its endpoint almost visible. Yet, who was to say life only had two paths?

    Feng Yao watched quietly, carving her own path in this worldly existence.

    In this merciless judgment, it was finally approaching her turn.

    "Lin Wan, it''s your turn!" Zhao Mengmeng nudged the girl beside her.

    "Oh..." Lin Wan''s voice trembled.

    "Believe in yourself!" Zhao Mengmeng clenched her fist, encouraging her.

    Lin Wan stepped onto the stage. "I should be fine!"

    She mustered her courage, gritted her teeth, and lifted the Harmony Crown. Then, she waited, as if years passed by.

    "4 stars, 5 stars..." she whispered to herself.

    "Lin Wan, 2 stars!" Suddenly, these words struck her like a knife to the neck.

    "Ugh..." She choked on the spot. "Impossible! Impossible! My sister isn''t better than me, and she got 3 stars!" Lin Wan''s eyes flew open as she turned to Zhao Menn beside her.

    "Step down." Zhao Menn said nothing more, took the Harmony Crown from her, and then turned to her sister. "Mengmeng, you''re next."

    "No, no, no, I request a retest!" Lin Wan cried bitterly, reaching out to snatch the Harmony Crown.

    "Lin Wan, stop this nonsense!"

    A hand grasped hers firmly. Lin Wan looked up sharply and saw it was her dear friend, Zhao Mengmeng.

    Zhao Mengmeng red at Lin Wan and said coldly, "The Harmony Divine Pce is no ce for your antics, step down!"

    "Mengmeng, I..." Lin Wan cried so hard she almost bit through her lip.

    "Step down!" Zhao Mengmeng shoved her away.

    Lin Wan staggered and fell to the ground, her heart splitting in two. When had Zhao Mengmeng ever dared to be so rough with her?

    She looked up, only to see Zhao Mengmeng already at the center of everyone''s attention, not looking at her, but lifting the Harmony Crown to ce upon her own head.

    Confidence was evident in her demeanor.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The Harmony Crown and her Corona fused perfectly together.

    Zhao Mengmeng did not close her eyes; instead, she looked towards her sister.

    Zhao Menn watched intently, her eyes fixed on the crown.

    A moment passed!

    "How many stars? Why isn''t it shining?" Zhao Mengmeng asked urgently.

    "Patience!" Zhao Menn responded.

    Two moments passed! Yet, there were still no signs.

    "Sister, I heard that the longer it takes for the gems to light up, the more stars there''ll be!" Zhao Mengmeng''s heart leaped with joy, a smile spreading across her face.

    "Indeed..." Zhao Menn was equally enthralled.

    Three moments passed! Then four, and five¡­

    "The suspense is killing me..." Zhao Mengmeng stared upwards, her heart nearly stopping.

    The entire Harmony Divine Pce fell into a deathly silence!

    Then, six moments, seven moments, eight moments, nine moments...

    "Why hasn''t anything appeared?" After extreme tension, Zhao Mengmeng suddenly fell into a profound stupor.

    Beside her, Zhao Menn also froze.

    "Menn, it''s over, take her down." A voice, icy as lightning, thundered in their ears.

    Zhao Menn''s delicate body shivered! She took a deep breath, her voice trembling, "Master, maybe¡­"

    Beside her, Zhao Mengmeng''s eyes nearly burst with strain. She clutched her sister''s hand fiercely, demanding, "How many stars? How many?"

    "Stop it." Zhao Menn shook her head.

    "How many stars?!" Zhao Mengmeng''s voice was torn with desperation.

    Seeing her sister so hysterical, Zhao Menn firmly held her down, took the Harmony Crown away, and began to drag her down the steps. Even she dared not lift her head at that moment.

    "Mengmeng, haven''t you understood yet? You''re a 0-Star, the weakest Corona foundation here today, the only one in recent years¡ªa true disgrace to your ancestors." Lin Wan stood up, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

    Zhao Mengmeng, unable to contain herself at Lin Wan''s taunting, wept tears mixed with blood, her whole being seeming to shatter into pieces.

    "Take her far away, don''t let her disturb the Pce Selection," Zhao Menn told Lin Wan.

    "Fine." Lin Wan gripped Zhao Mengmeng''s arm tightly and dragged her away.

    Zhao Mengmeng trembled, her steps faltering, as she was pulled along.

    "0-Star genius, tsk tsk."

    "Now, she''s truly bringing dishonor to her family..."

    "Just when she was so confident."

    "Laughable..."

    The Harmony Divine Pce finally erupted in mercilessughter.

    Thatughter, like a sea of bitterness, overwhelmed Zhao Mengmeng, piercing her like countless swords through the heart.

    <em>THUD! </em>The two didn''t leave the hall; both copsed together in a corner, slumping there.

    "Why don''t you leave?" Lin Wan said, exasperated.

    "I-I want to see othersughed at too, there must be someone more ridiculous than me, there must be..." Zhao Mengmeng wailed, clutching Lin Wan''s legs, "Lin Wan, I don''t want to be the most miserable!"

    "Yes, there must be!" Lin Wan, seeing her truly pitiable state, felt her own anger subside, and oddly, felt better for their shared misery.

    She had always feared Zhao Mengmeng surpassing her! Thankfully, she was worse off!

    With Zhao Mengmeng''s outburst, the atmosphere in the Harmony Divine Pce lightened somewhat.

    Zhao Menn, whose heart was aching, was about to call Feng Yao to take the stage next.

    "She''s that devil girl who came with Mengmeng and Lin Wan," Zhao Menn remarked.

    She knew that devils were known for their low Corona talents, with the Fourth Dao Tribtion being amon stumbling block for them.

    "Ugh, right after my sister, herees the thirdughingstock, and they''re all associated with me¡­" Zhao Menn grimaced, but she was helpless. The order could not be changed.

    What she hadn''t anticipated was that someone else would suddenly appear beside her, effortlessly taking the Harmony Crown!

    "Who?!" Zhao Menn turned to look.

    Standing beside her was a girl as cold as the deep sea itself, her presence enough to instill a sense of falling into the depths. It was the girl with the Extreme Yin Divine Physique, Dantai Mo.

    "I''m busy, just let me cut in line," Dantai Mo said calmly.

    "Of course." Zhao Menn didn''t dare to object. This was the Sea Storm Valkyrie''s own daughter, after all.

    In an instant, all eyes were on Dantai Mo!

    Most looked on with envy and admiration.

    Yet, a few scoffed inwardly, "You''re that confident? Be careful not to end up like Zhao Mengmeng¡ªthe Harmony Crown spares no pride!"

    While people were busy with their thoughts, Dantai Mo, holding the crown with both hands, ced it upon her head. Her gaze was intense, regal as an Emperor during a coronation.

    Time seemed to stand still! Nothing moved! As time passed, six breaths long, the crown showed no sign of life.

    "Just as I thought..." some began to curse under their breath.

    Suddenly, on the Harmony Crown, out of the 7 Yin Stars, 6 lit up with dazzling, intense light that illuminated heaven and earth!

    The Harmony Divine Pce shook to its core!

    Within the starlight, Dantai Mo appeared as a sovereign of stars, unparalleled and majestic.

    She had anticipated all of this, her expression as serene as a gentle breeze.

    It was clear to everyone that her confidence was of a different caliber than that of Zhao Mengmeng¡ªone was celestial above the clouds, the other, earthly.

    This was the true nobility of the Extreme Yin Star Realm!

    "6 stars shining, a talent worthy of a Valkyrie Princess!"

    Apuse erupted.

    The Frost Valkyrie pped and smiled, for this oue had been anticipated.

    The Extreme Yin Divine Physique deserved no less than 6 stars. It naturallymanded a status above even the Valkyries.

    It was as if the Sea Storm Valkyrie had birthed a daughter with talents surpassing her own¡ªa phoenix rising from a mere chicken. Congrattions was obligatory.

    The sound of pping filled the Harmony Divine Pce.

    In that moment, Dantai Mo was the center of glory.

    "Sigh..."

    Even Zhao Mengmeng, usually brimming with confidence, felt inferior before this true nobility, sighing and bowing her head, a new scar forming in her heart.

    "Thank you." Dantai Mo returned the Harmony Crown and turned to leave.

    "You''re wee." Zhao Menn watched the young girl, her heart sinking into deep reflection. "An unparalleled figure indeed..."

    She knew that today''s pinnacle had passed.

    Everyone still basked in Dantai Mo''s brilliance.

    Zhao Menn, still professional despite being captivated by Dantai Mo, managed to call Feng Yao''s name.

    "She must also face humiliation!" Lin Wan remarked coldly.

    "Yes, she''s the worst one, definitely..." Zhao Mengmeng straightened up, leaping to her feet, her eyes fixed on Feng Yao''s long, shapely legs as she ascended the stage.

    In terms of beauty, grace, and stature, this War Princess was truly without equal in the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Even Dantai Mo, about to leave, couldn''t help but give this devilish girl a second look, a flicker of interest in her eyes.

    "Is it that devil girl again?"

    "She must be with those two fools!"

    "That''s her!"

    Memories of Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan prepared the crowd for mockery.

    Yet, the Harmony Divine Pce fell eerily silent.

    The focus was intense.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Take it!" Zhao Menn, not tall enough, let Feng Yao reach for it herself.

    Feng Yao was a bit nervous, took a deep breath, and ced the Harmony Crown upon her head.

    "It suits you well," Yun Xiao said.

    He was mid-sentence when the crown immediately began to shine.

    "This early shine must mean 1 star..."

    Just as everyone began to think this¡­

    <em>FWOOSH! </em>The Harmony Crown suddenly shed with 7 stars!

    It was the light ofpletion, naturally illuminating the entire Harmony Divine Pce, engulfing every face in starlight.

    "What?" Zhao Mengmeng rubbed her eyes seven times, then slowly copsed to the ground.

    The entire Harmony Divine Pce, including the three Valkyries, stood up in unison!

    A long, dead silence fell over the hall...

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>Unnoticed by all, fissures began to form inside the crown''s Mysterious Yin Stars...

 Chapter 780: 7 Stars Shining Brilliantly, The Birth of a Valkyrie Queen!

    "Crap! Crap! Crap!! Quickly, take it off!"

    While Feng Yao was basking in the adoration of the crowd, the Mortal Dust Devil Seed within her heart panicked.

    "Why?" she asked, puzzled yetpliant. She reached out and snatched the Harmony Crown from her head.

    As soon as the Harmony Crown was removed, the brilliance of the seven Yin Stars dimmed, and the dazzling starlight that filled the hall abruptly vanished. The awe it had inspired, however, continued to ripple through the air.

    "If you''d worn it any longer, it would''ve cracked," Yun Xiao remarked casually.

    "Cracked? Really?" Feng Yao, holding the Harmony Crown, gave it a cursory nce.

    But a closer look revealed fine cracks within the seven Yin Stars.

    "What if it had exploded? Would that count for nothing?" Feng Yao flicked her tongue in mock horror, smiling sheepishly.

    "From what I''ve seen, people always find excuses for what they can''t ept," Yun Xiao observed."Thank goodness..." Feng Yao quickly covered the stars with her palm, her face wearing an awkward smile that, to outsiders, seemed brimming with confidence.

    "Seven stars, seven stars shining bright, a Valkyrie Queen is born!"

    Soon, suppressed voices sprang up like bamboo shoots after the rain, echoing from every corner of the Harmony Divine Pce, swelling into a tidal wave of excitement.

    "She''ll be a 7-Star Valkyrie Queen!"

    "She''s even surpassed Dantai Mo and her Extreme Yin Divine Physique¡­!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "In the history of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, no female devil has ever had such a Corona heritage!"

    "The greatest devil of all times?"

    Clearly, the stir Feng Yao caused was at least ten times greater than that of Dantai Mo. The carefully crafted debut of the Sea Storm Valkyrie for her daughter was foiled, and the Extreme Yin Divine Physique had merely be a backdrop!

    A tempest was brewing in the Harmony Divine Pce!

    "This, this..." Zhao Menn stood beside Feng Yao, gazing up at the devilish beauty of this young girl, feeling a seismic shift within her.

    Previously, she thought Feng Yao was just a pretty face, which was a dime a dozen in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. But now, as this vase bore the potential of a Valkyrie Queen, her beauty became the crowning jewel¡­

    The image of this young devil was perfected in an instant, as if ascending to the heavens, untouchable.

    This left Zhao Menn momentarily uncertain about what to do. Should she make the announcement? She didn''t dare. She felt shecked the right to dere the birth of the 7-Star Corona.

    Thankfully, her savior appeared.

    A figure in a blue and white long dress emerged between her and Feng Yao, her white hair cascading down like snow, revealing her identity to Zhao Menn.

    "Moon Lemon Valkyrie."

    Zhao Menn bowed and stepped back, remembering how the Moon Lemon Valkyrie was always understated, peaceful, and kindly¡ªa character of such nature appearing in this context only underscored that the brilliance of the seven stars was no illusion!

    In the center of all attention, Feng Yao looked down at the older woman with weathered features by her side.

    Her trembling eyes, soft yet firm, nced at Feng Yao and then at the Harmony Crown in her hands.

    She spoke softly but firmly, "My dear, wear it once more."

    Feng Yao shook her head. "No, it can''t be worn again."

    "Wear it once more!" the Moon Lemon Valkyrie implored sincerely.

    "Wear it! Wear it!"

    Indeed, within the Harmony Divine Pce, there were many doubters. They seized this moment to collectively shout, trying to pressure Feng Yao.

    However, what they truly desired was to see her luminescence shatter, to tear down the radiance that Feng Yao had unwittingly formed.

    "Wear it once more to convince everyone," the Moon Lemon Valkyrie said, gripping her hand earnestly.

    Despite being an elder, the Moon Lemon Valkyrie seemed somewhat diminutive before Feng Yao, making the scene almost appear as if a child was tugging at an adult''s hand...

    "Act quickly." Yun Xiao, seeing no escape from this predicament, decided to take a gamble.

    This demand to wear it once more would also confirm the risk of the Harmony Crown exploding.

    "Fine!" Feng Yao then lifted the Harmony Crown with both hands, ready to be crowned once again.

    This time, the reaction was even quicker!

    The moment the Harmony Crown and her Sanguine Spirit Dragon Corona merged, the seven Yin Stars shone in unison, their dazzling brilliance once again lighting up the Harmony Divine Pce, filling every pair of eyes.

    Whether those eyes held doubt or denial, they were overwhelmed by the starlight, forcing the looks to change to respect and reverence.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Feng Yao did not let it shine for long; in just a fleeting moment, she removed the Harmony Crown and smiled at the Moon Lemon Valkyrie. ¡°Senior, is this satisfactory?¡±

    The Moon Lemon Valkyrie''s eyes swirled with a snowy tide, seemingly moved.

    "Give it to me."

    She took the Harmony Crown and ced it upon Zhao Menn''s head, whereupon it merged with her Corona.

    Soon after, the Harmony Crown quietly shone with three Yin Stars, a contrast as stark as the heavens and earthpared to when Feng Yao wore it.

    Feng Yao shone like the light of the bright moon, while Zhao Menn merely glimmered like the light of a grain of rice.

    No words were needed! Such contrast spoke volumes all by itself.

    "How could this devil, without any notable background, achieve the Fourth Dao Tribtion at the age of 17 if not by sheer fate?"

    "A heaven defying Valkyrie Queen of the Samsara Gxy is born¡­"

    "Truly enviable."

    The celestial maidens who had earlier wished to see Feng Yao''s downfall now felt like they''d been struck by lightning, clenching their fists and bowing their heads.

    A feeling of jealousy overwhelmed them. They could notpete with Feng Yao in beauty. Nor could they match her in grace. Nor could they rival her in charisma!

    And that was not all. To be surpassed in the depth of their Coronas by a devil was even more galling, a suffocating blockade in their hearts.

    ¡°Why not wear it one more time? Every time she rushes to take it off, there must be a problem!¡±

    A sudden voice arose from the crowd.

    All eyes turned to see that the speaker was none other than Zhao Mengmeng, the one who had just made a fool of herself¡­

    Startled by the sudden attention, Zhao Mengmeng quickly shrank back behind Lin Wan.

    But to her surprise, instead of mockery, fragments of agreement emerged from the crowd, urging Feng Yao to test the crown a third time.

    ¡°It must be fake, that¡¯s why it¡¯s causing such outrage, right?¡± Zhao Mengmeng babbled on.

    ¡°Right¡­¡± Lin Wan said, her gaze darkening.

    The ripples they stirred quickly began to ferment, with more and more people joining the call to expose the fraud¡­

    Just then, two figures appeared at Feng Yao¡¯s side, like three stars around the moon!

    The neers were none other than two other Valkyries¡ªBing Xuanqing and Dantai Han.

    "My dear." The Frost Valkyrie, usually as cold as ice, now strained to offer a smile, aiming to appear approachable as she spoke to Feng Yao, ¡°From the first phase, I knew you were extraordinary. I didn¡¯t choose you then because I was certain that the Moon Lemon Valkyrie would pass you, giving others a chance.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Feng Yao nodded, her inner sneer icy.

    ¡°Mhm.¡± The Frost Valkyrie smiled slightly, then gazed deeply at Feng Yao, speaking earnestly. ¡°You maye and cultivate with my Ice Lineage. I, representing our lineage, promise to provide all necessary resources to ensure you be a true Valkyrie Queen!¡±

    Her words caused a stir throughout the assembly. Even the Frost Valkyrie herself was two ranks away from being a Valkyrie Queen. This promise was undoubtedly the greatestmitment she could make.

    Feng Yao, currently only a potential Valkyrie Queen, had a long road ahead to truly achieve that title. This pledge represented the utmost sincerity and determination of the Ice Lineage!

    Upon hearing this, Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan''s hearts shattered once again. They copsed to the ground,plete clowns. The embarrassment and frustration, unforgettable for a lifetime! The aggressive pursuit of Feng Yao by the Frost Valkyrie was a dagger to their hearts.

    As Zhao Mengmeng''s face metaphorically split with embarrassment, the Frost Valkyrie leaned closer to Feng Yao and spoke earnestly, "You should be aware that within the Harmony Divine Pce, our Ice Lineage is paramount."

    "Just so you know¡­"

    At that moment, the Sea Storm Valkyrie representing the Sea Lineage, chuckled softly and moved closer to Feng Yao.

    She gently took Feng Yao¡¯s hand, her smile far more tender than that of the Frost Valkyrie, like a dearly close elder whispering, ¡°My dear,e join our Sea Lineage. You are a devil, inclined towards the path of a Martial Immortal. Our lineage, with its reserves of celestial weapons and techniques, suits you best. And whatever promises the Ice Lineage can make, we can match them.¡±

    Her counteroffer made the temple buzz with envy, and the eyes of the other celestial maidens nearly bled green.

    As for those women who had demanded a third test for Feng Yao, they now felt like clowns, wishing they could disappear into a crack in the floor.

    Did a talent recognized by the three Valkyries really need a third test?

    "Don¡¯t overdo it." The Frost Valkyrie''s face turned cold upon hearing this.

    The two, jovial moments ago, now turned against each other.

    The Sea Storm Valkyrie, determined to have her way, no longer cared about her friendship with the Frost Valkyrie.

    With a wave of her hand, a young girl with dark green hair approached the Sea Storm Valkyrie''s side. It was none other than Dantai Mo!

    Prompted by her mother, the young girl drew closer.

    Today her spotlight had been stolen, yet she seemed utterly unconcerned, instead smiling at Feng Yao. ¡°Join our Sea Lineage. We entered the pce together today, which must be fate. I know everything about the Harmony Divine Pce. We can cultivate together and grow together.¡±

    She spoke gently! Though not previously a disciple of the Harmony Divine Pce, she had grown up here.

    In terms of connections and background, she was well-endowed.

    And Feng Yao, new to the Harmony Divine Pce, needed a peer to introduce her to the high circles of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, to make friends and flourish on all sides.

    Even the strongest talent faltered without friends, their ends were seldom pleasant.

    Dantai Mo¡¯s offer was key to bolstering the weakest link in Feng Yao¡¯s future prospects.

    ¡°You stole her thunder today, yet she graciously extended an olive branch. If you ept, everyone is happy. But if you refuse, do you understand what that means for her?¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°A double p in the face?¡± Feng Yao replied.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 781: Cleaning Up a Mess!

    ¡°Yes, you''ve already pped her face once by upstaging her here. Coldly refuse her offer, and you''ll be pping her face a second time. She will end up a mere backdrop, the butt of all jokes. This means you''ll cross her, and perhaps even the whole circle of the up-anding generation in the Harmony Divine Pce,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°How should I decide, then?¡± Feng Yao unconsciously asked.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ask me. Follow your heart. I¡¯m setting you free this time,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    Sometimes, too much control only turned one into a puppet, robbing them of their bloom.

    ¡°Very well!¡± Feng Yao had made up her mind early on. She was decisive. In front of everyone, she addressed the two Valkyries. ¡°Seniors, I''m profoundly grateful for the favor shown by you two. However, in the first phase of the selection, the Snow Lineage chose me. It¡¯s the rule of the Harmony Divine Pce, and I dare not defy it. I hope you can understand.¡±

    From a distance, the Moon Lemon Valkyrie watched the girl and smiled softly. She didn¡¯t say a word. But she was certain in her heart that Feng Yao would choose her! She knew this girl was not one to seek quick gains at the expense of honor.

    And rejecting Dantai Mo showed the pride and courage within her bones. She would not ept a forced choice!

    With that deration, the Harmony Divine Pce fell silent again.

    Most eyes, though, were on Dantai Mo! She seemed slightly startled. Then she smiled, retracting her hand and nodded, ¡°You¡¯re right. Rules are rules, theye first everywhere, even the mighty cannot break them.¡±

    ¡°I hope you understand, though we¡¯re not from the same lineage, we can stillmunicate a lot,¡± Feng Yao said.

    ¡°Naturally,¡± Dantai Mo smiled.

    ¡°Congrattions, the Snow Lineage has been blessed today,¡± the Sea Storm Valkyrie, ever the diplomat, immediately offered her congrattions to the Moon Lemon Valkyrie upon Feng Yao¡¯s choice.

    However, the Frost Valkyrie had no desire to y along. She nced at Feng Yao one more time and turned back to ascend the high tform. ¡°The selection continues.¡±

    ¡°I have other matters; I¡¯ll look for youter,¡± Dantai Mo said, handing a few flying talismans to Feng Yao, then smiling as she departed.

    Feng Yao then spoke to the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in her heart, ¡°I handled that pretty well, right? Gave her a graceful way out. She and her friends have no reason to target me anymore, right?¡±

    ¡°Little, you''re still too naive,¡± Yun Xiao remarked.

    ¡°Cut it out, all you do is ramble on pretentiously, ying the old sage,¡± Feng Yao hummed, unwilling to entertain him further.

    ¡°My dear,e here,¡± the Moon Lemon Valkyrie beckoned to her, then asked, ¡°So, your name is Wanyan...¡±

    ¡°Senior,¡± Feng Yao bit her lip, hesitating, ¡°Actually, that¡¯s just a nickname. I was orphaned, born into hardship, forced to conceal my true self.¡±

    ¡°I bet your dad will be thrilled to hear about that,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°Shut up. It''s all your fault,¡± Feng Yao snapped.

    The Moon Lemon Valkyrie, unaware of the conversation going on within her, asked, ¡°Then what is your real name?¡±

    ¡°Feng Yao,¡± she replied. She wasn¡¯t about to let Yun Xiao use Wanyan Guifen to mock her anymore!

    The Moon Lemon Valkyrie smiled and addressed the crowd, ¡°A name is but abel; talent is the essence. Let it be known to all present here today at the Harmony Divine Pce that the one who shines as bright as seven stars is named Feng Yao.¡±

    This revtion stung many a celestial maiden. This devil girl seemed to have it all, but at least her name was a <em>tragedeigh</em>! But now, it seemed that wasn''t the case either. Her actual name was perfectly normal!

    Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan wore puzzled expressions. They had helped Feng Yao register under the name Wanyan Guifen, yet she had another? What was the situation here? Both werepletely baffled.

    ¡°Feng Yao,e,¡± the Moon Lemon Valkyrie called.

    She led her down from the test tform to stand behind her on the high stage.

    ¡°Hey, you''re still holding the Harmony Crown. Let Menn continue, there are only a few hundred candidates left,¡± the Frost Valkyrie said, somewhat annoyed.

    ¡°I have something to say,¡± the Moon Lemon Valkyrie, holding the Harmony Corona, told the crowd, ¡°Historically, the higher one¡¯s innate talent, the slower the stars illuminate. For seven stars to shine, it usually takes seven breaths, but for Feng Yao, it was instantaneous.¡±

    ¡°So what?¡± the Frost Valkyrie asked.

    The Moon Lemon Valkyrie continued, ¡°I believe this replica limited the disy of her talent. Feng Yao¡¯s talent might exceed seven stars, so after the selection, I want to propose using the real Harmony Corona to fully test her limits.¡±

    Many were shocked by this proposal.

    Both the Frost Valkyrie and Sea Storm Valkyrie fell silent.

    Finally, the Frost Valkyrie shook her head, ¡°I don¡¯t see the need. The Harmony Corona is sacred, with no precedent of it ever being used to test a Divine Bud Disciple.¡±

    The Moon Lemon Valkyrie gently touched the replica''s Yin Stars, ncing at the cracks within, and said softly, ¡°Whether it¡¯s necessary should be decided by those above us.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of announcing this early? Are you trying to pressure the other lineages?¡± the Frost Valkyrie said coldly.

    The Moon Lemon Valkyrie''s smile was faint as she returned the replica to the test tform, instructing Zhao Menn to proceed.

    The Frost Valkyrie had voiced her purpose, but what of it?

    In that moment, the three lineages were like water and oil, and the atmosphere within the Harmony Divine Pce turned tense.

    The final few hundred candidates carried no further surprises.

    And so, the Pce Selection concluded!

    However, the events of the selection were already spreading throughout the Harmony Divine Pce and even across the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    The name of Feng Yao shone like seven stars in the heavens, overshadowing the six stars of the Extreme Yin Divine Physique.

    At the end, the Moon Lemon Valkyrie rose to her feet and said to Feng Yao, ¡°Yao''er, I have no daughters of my own. I wish to be your first master on the path of immortality, to treat you as my own child. Will you ept?¡±

    Feng Yao was stunned. Following Yun Xiao, she had scarcely had such personal, emotional interactions with others.

    Always, she had been merely a tail to Yun Xiao¡¯s kite, following wherever he flew.

    Seeing that Feng Yao did not respond, the Moon Lemon Valkyrie smiled. ¡°It¡¯s only to guide you into the celestial path. One day, when you soar to the heavens, there will be second and third masters, far surpassing me... They will impart all they know to you. Perhaps their divine talents are iparable, but I am willing to devote my life to set you on your journey.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not that...¡± Feng Yao hurriedly said, ¡°I would, of course I would. I¡¯ve never had such a benefactor, and I''m just overwhelmed.¡±n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    She found the Moon Lemon Valkyrie¡¯s sincerity and their seamless interaction earlier that day veryforting; the promise to devote a lifetime tounch her journey was more than enough.

    ¡°I pay respects to my master,¡± she said.

    In front of all, the young devil girl half-knelt, nearly as tall as her master...

    ¡°Good, very good!¡± The Moon Lemon Valkyrie might have faced few upheavals in her life, but sheughed heartily now.

    Indeed, she made even Yun Xiao feel at ease. In the vast melting pot of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, women as straightforward and dedicated as her were rare.

    Unlike the Frost Valkyrie and Dantai Han, who made Yun Xiao uneasy with their constant scheming, petty jealousy,parisons, and intrigue...

    ¡°Yao Yao, I will take you to my Thousand Snow Moon Peak, to begin your cultivation at the Harmony Divine Pce. And about the matter of the real Harmony Crown, I will make arrangementster,¡± the Moon Lemon Valkyrie said softly.

    ¡°Yes, master...¡± Feng Yao responded, about to leave, when suddenly she remembered someone. ¡°Master, I have a ve who has been with me a long time. I would like to bring him to Thousand Snow Moon Peak.¡±

    ¡°A ve?¡± The Moon Lemon Valkyrie paused.

    ¡°Yes, is that not allowed?¡± Feng Yao asked curiously.

    ¡°It''s not that. The Harmony Divine Pce has many ves, but my Thousand Snow Moon Peak does not,¡± the Moon Lemon Valkyrie thought for a moment, seeing Feng Yao¡¯s determination, and then said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll make an exception for you, but only one person.¡±

    "Thank you! I''ll go fetch him right away!" Feng Yao said.

    "Since we''re all departing, let''s go together." The Moon Lemon Valkyrie led the disciples, both old and new, along with Feng Yao out of the Harmony Divine Pce.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the Harmony Divine Pce, within a celestial pnquin carried by 1,000 ves¡­ Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan were the first to return.

    It was too embarrassing to remain outside any longer. Only within could they salvage some dignity.

    "I''m furious! Absolutely furious!" Zhao Mengmeng threw her garments about, her voice venomous, "I''m going to expose her! That wretched devil was just a lover of my aunt, climbing her way up by seduction! I''ll make her life miserable!"

    "That''s not right," Lin Wan, following behind her, furrowed her brow, "Mengmeng, I think this person isn''t the original Wanyan Guifen. She might have used that identity to get us to help her register. Her background is very suspicious, maybe she''s not even from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!"

    "What?" Zhao Mengmeng''s face lit up with a mix of excitement and shock. "You might be onto something! Only we know this. If it''s true, and we expose it to the Ice Lineage and Sea Lineage, we''d be making a major contribution!"

    "Yes, we might even turn our fortunes around..." Zhao Mengmeng''s face twisted with loathing.

    "No, you won''t have that chance."

    Suddenly, a male voice came from behind the screen.

    "Who''s there?" Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan were startled.

    Yun Xiao stepped out from behind the screen, smiling at them.

    They were momentarily stunned. Then, Zhao Mengmeng''s face contorted with malice, her anger clouding her judgment.

    "You?!" She lunged forward, growling, "A spineless ve daring to enter my celestial pnquin, you''ve got some nerve!"

    "Yes, I have." Yun Xiao moved toward her as well.

    As they closed in on each other, Yun Xiao''s hand shed, and a Flying Sword suddenly shot forth.

    As Zhao Mengmeng''s fury peaked, a sh of azure light crossed her vision. Then, that same light pierced through her brow.

    "What?" She was confused, then pained, and slowly, she died.

    "What on earth..."

    The ve, he didn''t even have a Corona¡­ How could a ve dare to kill a celestial maiden. Such things didn¡¯t happen in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. There were too many things she couldn''t understand. But, she had no more time to think.

    She copsed into Yun Xiao''s arms, and like a slippery eel, she slid down. In the process, her palm identally touched something colossal...

    "...!" Zhao Mengmeng died in shock, after making contact with something that shouldn''t exist in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    "Mengmeng!" Lin Wan was instantly terrified out of her wits! She whirled around, thinking to flee, but suddenly a tinum Buddha''s Treasure Spirit appeared before her!

    "You''re quite clever, aren''t you? Just a name led you to deduce so much truth?"

    A Flying Sword, Life Sigil, and Buddha''s Treasure Spirit struck from three directions, instantly killing Lin Wan.

    "The truth..." Lin Wan, terrified by her realization, died with her eyes wide open.

    And so, the two celestial maidens died inside their tranquil celestial pnquin...

    Yun Xiao collected all their possessions.

    Outside, Feng Yao and a group of Harmony Divine Pce disciples were approaching.

    "Hey, where are you?" she said exasperatedly to the Mortal Dust Devil Seed.

    The Mortal Dust Devil Seed sent back an impatient voice. "What do you think? I was wiping your big butt for you like usual!"

 Chapter 782: Scouring Millions For One Man!

    "W-what..!" Feng Yao instinctively thought that the coarse words Yun Xiao had spoken through the Mortal Dust Devil Seed were audible to others.

    She jumped, her heartbeat racing, the Yin Devil traits manifesting, her skin flushing drunk-red in an instant. Especially her cheeks, rosy and steaming hot.

    Fortunately, she looked around and, whether it was her master the Moon Lemon Valkyrie or her fellow disciples, none could hear Yun Xiao''s vulgar words.

    "Can''t you be a bit more refined?" the War Princess said, exasperated.

    He looked every part the heavenly Immortal, yet his words were ever so mundane.

    Her seriousness stunned Yun Xiao, who said, "You know that Zhao Mengmeng and Lin Wan? Those two won''t be looking down on men any longer!"

    "Huh? Any longer? Does that mean you¡­!" Feng Yao''s anger red. "Y-you! Ugh! You really aren''t picky with women, are you! All men are beasts!"

    "I mean I killed them. What are you getting so angry about?" Yun Xiao asked with augh.

    "I''m not angry¡­" Feng Yao quickly suppressed her anger, then asked, "It''s all in the past, and yet you still pursue them for their lives?""It''s not in the past; they nned to reveal that you might not be from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to the Ice and Sea Lineages," Yun Xiao said, chuckling.

    "Oh¡­!" Feng Yao suddenly felt a chill.

    Such was the merciless nature of jealousy.

    "Learn from this. Fool me once, shame on you; don¡¯t parade around like a devil princess, ying the naive sweetheart," Yun Xiao advised.

    "You''re the naive sweetheart." Feng Yao huffed, slightly indignant. "I was fierce long before you were born."

    "And what could you do at one year old? Drink three tubs of milk in one go?" Yun Xiao quipped.

    "Just shut it, hurry up and get out here, we''re making too much of a show waiting for one ve." Feng Yao was tired of bickering. Though she found joy in the process, the setting demanded restraint.

    "He¡¯s here."

    Soon, Yun Xiao¡¯s true form stealthily emerged from the celestial pnquin, quietly approaching the War Princess.

    Upon seeing him, Feng Yao red fiercely andmanded authoritatively, "Little Yun, be quick."

    "Yes, yes." Yun Xiao advanced, greeting the dozens of celestial maidens from the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "Miya, our Thousand Snow Moon Peak is a ce of serenity. Regarding this ve, I hope you impose strict requirements, only allowing him to leave under your supervision, and never to wander freely, disturbing the peace of others," the Moon Lemon Valkyrie instructed.

    "Understood," Feng Yao nodded.

    Even as celestial maidens of the Snow Lineage, they afforded no special treatment to a ve, sparing Yun Xiao hardly a nce.

    For them, receiving Yun Xiao was akin to taking along Feng Yao and incidentally collecting some tool she had left outside.

    "Let''s go."

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The celestial maidens of the Harmony Divine Pce, predominantly Inscription Immortals, did not brandish Sovereign Swords but danced in long snow-white dresses. Each wore a Corona, appearing like the fairies from paintings, drifting through the dense, snowy mist in ethereal beauty.

    "The Diva of the Snow Lineage has issued amand!"

    Just as they were about to depart, another group of celestial maidens from the Harmony Divine Pce appeared.

    Each maiden was a stunning portrait of beauty, moving like waves on water, a feast for the eyes. However, their expressions were ice-cold, marring the sight.

    "Our Diva has amand?"

    Hearing this, the Moon Lemon Valkyrie halted and listened to the promation.

    The group of celestial maidens descended before the countless ves outside the Harmony Divine Pce, their chilling gaze sweeping over the lost souls who had strayed from their roots.

    "The Snow Lineage will requisition all present ves and escort them to the Snow Soul Cave," the celestial maidens dered.

    "What?"

    At this promation, the celestial maidens not selected into the Harmony Divine Pce were speechless¡ªthese were their personal ves, suddenly imed without consent.

    However, this was the decree of the Diva of the Snow Lineage¡­ Who would dare defy them?

    This was a supreme ruler of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! A Boundless Immortal they worshiped!

    As for the millions of ves, they could only look at each other, none daring to stand up, resist, or question.

    They were merely beasts of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, no different from pigs or dogs¡ªhow could they dare say they were unwilling?

    "Take them away! Not one can be missed!"

    And so, these millions of ves were rigorously and orderly escorted by the dozens of celestial maidens from the Harmony Divine Pce towards the direction of the Snow Soul Cave beside the pce.

    "Du Shuman, why does the Diva need so many Immortal ves?" the Moon Lemon Valkyrie asked the woman who made the announcement.

    This woman held a high position, likely a Valkyrie herself, tall and as cold as ice.

    Yet, facing the Moon Lemon Valkyrie, she responded fairly, "I''m not entirely sure, perhaps the Diva needs them for alchemy as a substantial catalyst."

    "I recall, our Diva has never used ves for alchemy, has she?" the Moon Lemon Valkyrie inquired curiously.

    "It likely rtes to her attempt at bing a Boundless Immortal," Du Shuman whispered, her voice low yet filled with excitement. "I heard she might have solved a major problem today, a breakthrough is imminent!"

    "Really?" the Moon Lemon Valkyrie responded with equal fervor.

    "Why else would she emerge from seclusion with such a roar today? Why the sudden need for millions of ves?" Du Shuman replied with a meaningful smile.

    "May the Divaplete her grand virtue!" the Moon Lemon Valkyrie said.

    "Let''s leave it at that for now."

    Du Shuman began herding the millions of ves away, while their owners, whether they had entered the Harmony Divine Pce or not, could only watch helplessly.

    "Looks like you dodged the," Feng Yao said, smirking at Yun Xiao.

    "Keep it down," Yun Xiao hissed, having just been inspecting his fingers, trying to clean them, when Feng Yao startled him.

    "What''s got you so jittery?" Feng Yao was surprised; he was usually soposed.

    "Keep it up, and I''ll shut you up." Yun Xiao red back.

    "Getting touchy, are we? What mischief were you up to while I was attending the pce selection? I called you for ages with no reply," Feng Yao said suspiciously.

    She knew Yun Xiao too well by now! He seemed to float through life, but his mind brewed schemes!

    "I haven''t even entered the Fourth Dao Tribtion; what mischief could I possibly do? Just keep your wits about you and find me resources, stop wasting time," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Alright, I''ll start by finding a Cmity Source for you." Feng Yao knew when to back down, not pressing further, also worried about Yun Xiao being sent to the Snow Soul Cave.

    Now that no one paid him any heed, it was the best situation. After all, he was just one among millions of ves; who cared?

    "No need for that. I''ve got one," Yun Xiao casually mentioned.

    "Where did you get a Cmity Source?" Feng Yao''s ears perked up.

    "Ahem... took it from Zhao Mengmeng," Yun Xiao covered smoothly. He couldn¡¯t very well admit to taking a service fee.

    But thinking of that half-serpent girl with white hair and pink eyes, he felt speechless.

    "I saved your life, and almost definitely helped you break through your shackles. You only bled a little, yet you''re scouring millions just to find me?"

    Judging from the descriptions, that girl appeared to be the Diva of the Snow Lineage, which Feng Yao had just joined. It was also exactly where Yun Xiao was headed now. How perilous could this journey be?

    "It''s a good thing I''m bold yet meticulous. I''ll make a few more copies of that recording. If she''s not afraid of going down with me, she can feel free to take revenge on me all she wants."

    For a supreme Diva to be involved with a mere ve, if this recording got out, it could shake the very foundation of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    "You''re plotting something bad again when you''re this quiet," Feng Yao''s voice suddenly rang in his ears.

    "Mind your status, stay away from me, mistress," Yun Xiao retorted coldly.

    "Idiot, I''ll soon fix you, and be your true master," the War Princess huffed.

    At that moment, the Moon Lemon Valkyrie summoned her, offering warm inquiries into her well-being, while Yun Xiao, trailing behind, ignored by all, moved as if invisible, which suited him just fine.

    "It seems, the Snow Lineage treats the ves the kindest out of all the lineages."

    The entire Snow Lineage had the fewest number of ves and was the most serene.

    The Harmony Divine Pce was divided into three sections, each standing strong.

    The Ice Lineage''s corner was a frozen expanse, miles of ice.

    The Sea Lineage''s domain was the northernmost, a cold, shadowy sea, chilling to the bone.

    And the Snow Lineage''s corner, right behind the Harmony Divine Pce, showcased snowy mountains, drifting kes, and flying petals¡ªall part of the Snow Lineage''s territory, and arguably the most beautiful part of the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Yun Xiao followed the group of celestial maidens. They flew over the vast snowy mountains, like fairies dancing in a painting, surrounded by a whirlwind of snowkes and flower petals.

    After passing many snowy mountains, courts, celestial formations, and blooming flowers, a moderately high snow-capped peak appeared, the home of the Moon Lemon Valkyrie.

    Inside, the peak boasted many continuous mountains, each topped with pces and exquisite celestial pavilions, breathtaking in their elegance.

    "Yao''er, this Carefree Pce is now yours," the Moon Lemon Valkyrie said, pointing to a central snowy peak pce.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Thank you, Master," Feng Yao replied, ncing at Yun Xiao, her heart naturally pondering the strange coincidence.

    Yun Xiao''s name stood for <em>carefree</em>, and now the two were residing in the Carefree Pce.

    She imagined what a blissful life that would be!

    "My residence is on that main peak," the Moon Lemon Valkyrie said with a smile, pointing to the tallest nearby snow mountain.

    "Very close," Feng Yao noted.

    "I can guide your cultivation at any time," the Moon Lemon Valkyrie smiled. "But first, I''ll take you and the other new disciples to register and make your debut at the main peak."

    The group headed towards the main peak.

    At the Thousand Snow Moon Pce on the main peak, almost all the disciples who could make it were already there.

    After all, who wouldn''t want to catch a glimpse of a 7-Star celestial talent?

    Yun Xiao, of course, couldn''t go. As they passed the Carefree Pce, he wisely made his exit.

    From a distance, the main peak buzzed with activity.

    Feng Yao basked in the adtion, naturally the center of attention as the sole disciple of the Moon Lemon Valkyrie.

    Yun Xiao thought she''d stay there long, but surprisingly, she returned to the Carefree Pce soon after.

    It wasn''t the Moon Lemon Valkyrie who brought her back, but a beautiful and gentle senior sister.

    "Junior Sister Yao, I''m just next door at the Spiritual Charm Pavilion. If you have any questions, feel free to visit me. You must be tired today; I won¡¯t disturb you further," the senior sister said softly.

    "Thank you, Senior Sister." Feng Yao waved and stood at the entrance of the Carefree Pce, watching her leave...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 783: Blood And Snow

    Yun Xiao stepped out from the doorway, his gaze lingering on the silhouette of the departing girl.

    "Stop staring, she''s long gone," Feng Yao scoffed, her lips curling in distaste. "Her name is Xue Lingqian, the esteemed senior sister of Thousand Snow Moon Peak¡ªa Taiji Disciple with exceptional talent. A ve like you better retract those frog eyes of yours."

    Yun Xiao ignored her cutting remark and insteadmented, "It seems you''ve managed to integrate well into the Harmony Divine Pce."

    "Of course, I''m quite the social butterfly," Feng Yao replied with confidence.

    "And your master? She just took you in and that''s it? No further arrangements?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "What''s the rush? She''s probably busy with handling my entry into the pce; she told me to rest up... She seems to have gone to meet with the higher-ups of the Snow Lineage. Apparently, she wants to have them test me with the real Harmony Crown," Feng Yao exined.

    "Hmm. She''s quite efficient." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Speaking of which, if she really gets the actual Harmony Crown, should I wear it?" Feng Yao asked.

    "What do you think?" Yun Xiao leaned against a pir at the entrance of the Carefree Pce, surrounded by a world of snow, smiling at the beguiling devil before him.In this cold, snowy world, there was no ce more in need of warmth and fiery embrace.

    Knowing he was testing her again, Feng Yao pondered for a good while, trying to boost her perceived intellect in his eyes. "I think it''s best not to wear it. Considering what happened with the imitation¡ªit cracked¡ªif I wear the real thing, it would surely light up eight or nine stars."

    "Isn''t an increase in potential a good thing? Like when I entered the Sword Ruins and became a Sword Exile directly," Yun Xiao pointed out.

    "It''s different here; there are no Sword Exiles like in the Sword Ruins. Even the most heavenly of talents are just that¡ªtalents, not powerhouses. There are three factions here at odds, and my 7-Star Valkyrie Queen potential has already sparked jealousy from the other two lineages. Crossing the line would disrupt the bnce, making both the Snow Lineages and me targets for the other lineages. That could be deadly," Feng Yao exined.

    "Go on," urged Yun Xiao.

    Encouraged by his interest, Feng Yao continued with a hint of pride, "Based on my estimates, my 7-Star talent is just right for now. I''m getting quite good resources as it is. No need to risk more."

    She finished with a smug look at Yun Xiao.

    After a long pause, seeing that he remained silent, she red at him. "What? Am I wrong? Advancing to eight or nine stars might bring short-term gains, but the risks would skyrocket."

    "Have you forgotten why we came to the Harmony Divine Pce in the first ce?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    "The original purpose¡­" Feng Yao pondered, then bit her lip, "To leave this ce, to find your Senior Sister Zhao."

    "We don''t have much time; I prefer to strike quickly. Taking risks doesn''t bother me," Yun Xiao said.

    "And if it all goes wrong?" Feng Yao asked incredulously.

    "Then it''s just a loss of one you, and I find another Blood Base," Yun Xiao responded coldly.

    "You!" As if struck by lightning, Feng Yao''s eyes widened in disbelief, tears welling up.

    "Ugh¡­ Wahhh!" She suddenly crouched down, hugging her knees, and began to cry. Wails grew louder amidst her mournful sobs.

    "Hey, hey," Yun Xiao rushed forward, urgently consoling her, "Why the tears? It was only a joke, not meant seriously. You''re too precious."

    Her tears continued to flow unabated.

    Left with no other option, Yun Xiao pulled her into his arms and said with a sigh, "Alright, alright, I apologize. I''m a scoundrel, and I won''t ever tease you again."

    "Okay." Suddenly, Feng Yao looked up, her tears ceasing instantly as a sly smile crossed her face. "Got that recorded, no backing out now."

    She waved a projection talisman in her hand.

    Yun Xiao was dumbfounded. Just moments ago, he was recording others, and now the tables had turned on him! Such was karma.

    He looked at the feigning innocence of the <em>big</em> girl before him, both amused and baffled.

    Inside this lofty devil dwelled a girl with a clear sense of love and hate, kind and lovely at heart.

    "So, are you going to keep your word?" She clenched the talisman in her hand, her lips pursed in a fierce question.

    "Yes, yes, you win," Yun Xiao pinched her face hard, letting out a breath of relief.

    "Win, my butt! Here you are still teasing me! I''ll strangle you!" Feng Yao pounced on Yun Xiao, gripping his neck.

    However, she underestimated her own weight; her charge knocked him over, and she ended up sitting atop him, her waist bending...

    <em>CRASH! </em>In front of the Carefree Pce, they remained in thispromising pose for several moments.

    "What''s this? Aren''t you an archer, trying to overpower me in close quarters?" Yun Xiao joked from beneath her.

    Her heart pounded wildly, her body flushing red as if steaming in the snowy setting.

    She swiftly leaped up, panicked, and retreated to the side, cursing, "Stupid midget, I''ll let you off today, but don¡¯t get cocky, cough cough..."

    Yun Xiao got up, watching her clumsy performance with a smile, thinking to himself: How wonderful girls really are...

    This just showed that there were all sorts of people in the world¡ªa blend of good and bad. Why condemn an entire group for a single sin?

    "Have a seat."

    Yun Xiao felt oddly serene that day. Seated on the white jade steps amidst a snowdenndscape, he watched the world turn a powder white as snowkes danced through the air.

    Feng Yao watched him cautiously for a spell, noting his ethereal, otherworldly demeanor, his face blending harmoniously with the swirling snow¡ªas if he were the most exquisite addition to this picturesque scene. Only then did she rx and take her ce beside him, bending her knees as she sat.

    Her posture remained tense, however.

    "Did you find out? How can we activate the celestial formation to leave the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm?" Yun Xiao asked, his gaze fixed on the snowfall ahead.

    "The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is a sealed world, created for protection. Travel restrictions for disciples are stringent; only those willing to risk life and death, and at least as advanced as a Taiji Disciple, may apply to travel to other worlds," Feng Yao exined.

    As she spoke, she couldn''t help but steal nces at his perfect profile, slowly merging with the snow and wind. A tranquility settled within her, a reassuring, heartwarming calm.

    Feng Yao knew well that initially, he never spoke of abandoning her as a Blood Base, and back then, that''s what scared her most.

    But now, when he joked about leaving her as fodder... for some reason, she found herself not frightened at all. The more he joked about it to scare her, the more it felt just like a joke.

    So, she could feel that he was truly looking out for her, genuinely caring...

    "Are you now considered a Valkyrie''s disciple? How does one be a Taiji Disciple?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Divine Bud, Ster Sea, Taiji, and Samsara¡­ that''s the hierarchy of the disciple ranks in the Samsara Gxy. To use myself as an example, if I can break through two realms and survive two baptisms by the age of 49, achieving the Third Baptism Realm, I''ll qualify as a Taiji Disciple," Feng Yao replied softly.

    "That doesn''t sound too hard," Yun Xiao nodded, then asked, "Why 49, though?"

    "7 by 7 is 49. That time is deemed the prime period for cultivation in the Samsara Gxy. Many prodigies show their true mettle within these years. So, in these 18 Ster Rivers, 49 is a huge breakpoint," Feng Yao exined.

    To the two of them, one 16 years old and the other 18, 49 years old seemed like a lifetime away.

    Bone age tests had some discrepancies; the War Princess had already passed her 18th birthday.

    She recalled struggling to awaken her talents before she turned 18.

    Yun Xiao digested her exnation, asking, "So, taking the Harmony Divine Pce as an example, all the disciples here are under 49 years old?"

    "Right."

    "What happens after they turn 50?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Those who haven''t be Valkyries by 49 years old leave the Harmony Divine Pce to preside over different locations within the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. These individuals are known as <em>Outer Pce Personnel</em> and include ranks like Stewards, Hall Masters, and Dao Guides. Among them, an Outer Pce Hall Master is usually in the Third Baptism Realm, while a Dao Guide is in the Fourth Baptism Realm," Feng Yao exined.

    It was quite simple, really. In essence, the Harmony Divine Pce only retained geniuses and those who were at least strong as a Valkyrie. If you failed to be a Valkyrie, you''d be reassigned elsewhere.

    "Okay," Yun Xiao said, after confirming the information he gleamed with hers, "Then, let¡¯s quickly help you be a Taiji Disciple."

    "But there''s a problem," Feng Yao pouted.

    "Speak."

    "The rules of the Harmony Divine Pce state that once a ve arrives in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, they''re forbidden to leave for life. This means, apart from the time you were abducted, you¡¯re prohibited from approaching the teleportation formations. The area is heavily guarded, and it¡¯s hard to get close," Feng Yao exined.

    "Not even you can manage it? What about a 7-Star Corona talent?" Yun Xiao said, exasperated. He couldn''t help but wonder who brought him to this ridiculous world.

    "The more talented you are, the more cautious the pce is about letting you leave," Feng Yao said, rubbing her temples.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Damn!" Yun Xiao was cursing when Feng Yao suddenly giggled. "But I think there might be a way."

    "Out with it," Yun Xiao urged, looking at her intently.

    "In two days, they¡¯ll select some disciples to attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. A lot of people will be traveling then, and it¡¯ll be chaotic. If I can secure a spot, I might be able to smuggle you out... Even if that fails, if I have a reason to travel, I could make a scene to bring you along. They might just bend the rules a little, right?"

    "Right!" Yun Xiao nodded decisively. "You''re good at this, let¡¯s do it your way."

    "What exactly am I good at?" Feng Yao huffed.

    "Making a scene," Yun Xiaoughed.

    "Jerk." She looked at him, wishing she could tear away his disguise. "A wolf in sheep''s clothing!"

    However, she also felt that no sheepskin could be so bewitching. What kind of skin was it, really? She couldn¡¯t figure it out.

    "Let¡¯s watch the snow," Yun Xiao suddenly suggested.

    "Yes, let¡¯s." She followed his gaze forward.

    Mountains upon mountains of snowkes danced in the sky.

    "It''s beautiful," her eyes shimmered as she whispered.

    "Lean on my shoulder," Yun Xiao offered.

    "No, you¡¯re too short." Feng Yao teased, her lips curling slightly.

    "Quit it." Yun Xiao looked ahead, reached out an arm, and pulled her close, letting her lean on him.

    The snow was cold. But her blood was warm. It was their blood, mingled together.

 Chapter 784: Defy, Seal, Swallow, and Bury!

    Amidst the falling snow, Yun Xiao was already nning to use that mysterious Cmity Source he''d found to tackle the Fourth Dao Tribtion and condense his Corona!

    But before that, there were still things going on with his body double!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, Moon Fairy had reached this same crucial juncture!

    It was a bustling time in the Beastly Peaks, where 1,000,000 beasts of the Destion Corps were flocking towards the direction of the Ghost Cauldron.

    The cauldron''s core, a wick of green life mes, erupted, casting its eerie glow across the dim skies, illuminating the ferocious faces and pointed fangs of endless vicious demons. This ghastly fire lent an even more brutal, wild, intense, and fearsome air to their visages.

    Such a vicious and violent world stood in stark contrast to the cold, subtle ambiance of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    The Harmony Divine Pce was breathtakingly beautiful; the Beastly Peaks, hideously ugly.

    Yet, at their core, the struggles of these two ces were fundamentally the same!The Beastly Peaks, though not as vast as the Harmony Divine Pce, stretched endlessly like countless ghostly ws reaching for the heavens, with continuous howls and cries piercing the air.

    ¡°True to its name, the Beastly Peaks, where the demons are primarily birds and beasts,¡± Moon Fairy remarked wistfully.

    While these weremon creatures, they bore the bloodline of eternal reincarnation, reputedly living far longer than cultivators from other Celestial Sourcecore realms.

    Amidst billowing smoke and fierce cries, countless fierce demons swept past Moon Fairy, rushing towards the direction of the Ghost Cauldron.

    The thunderous stampede of 1,000,000 Fourth Dao Tribtion demons was a spectacle of immense magnitude.

    Yet, Moon Fairy was in no rush. As he observed the rugged scenery of the Beast Path, he asked the tree demon Old Kapok hanging above him, ¡°In the Six Paths of Reincarnation, would there be a Sword Immortal daring enough to forge a Sword Ring from our Demon Source?¡±

    ¡°Of course! When the old Six-Eyed Pandemonium was overseeing things, there were constant skirmishes between different paths of the Six Paths of Reincarnation. The mission of our Destion Corps was to battle for the Beast Path. Where there¡¯s war, there''s death. So, naturally the human Sword Immortals would shame us by plundering our demon bones and sources,¡± Old Kapok replied, his voice tinged with anger, yet he soon chuckled, adding, ¡°But we''ve had our revenge. We¡¯d often devour their corpses raw, and those beasts would turn into their animal forms to ravage their women.¡±

    ¡°Alright then!¡± Moon Fairy''s inquiry about the Demon Source was mainly because it rted to the Fourth Dao Tribtion.

    The Fourth Dao Tribtion for demons was distinct from that of humans and devils.

    Moon Fairy hadn¡¯t been in the Beast Path long, but he¡¯d studied it thoroughly.

    ¡°Although the Fourth Dao Tribtion for demons doesn¡¯t forge a Corona, they also undergo the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms, crossing eight tribtions, and likewise, they require a Cmity Source for each tribtion.

    ¡°After a demon''s spirit breaks through to the Taiji Spirit ne, they can attract the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms using a Cmity Source, just like humans and devils. The difference lies in the fact that the tribtion doesn''t form a Corona but rather creates a Demon Source within their bodies.

    "The Demon Source is, in essence, simr to an internal Corona.

    "However, unlike a Corona, a Demon Source doesn''t boast a myriad ofplex augmentations. It''s a pure convergence of tribtion power, its sole purpose being to continuously forge the demon''s body while gathering all the demon''s energy into a core to amplify its magic."

    Demons differed from humans; before the Fourth Dao Tribtion, a demon''s power permeated their flesh rather than coursing through their meridians,cking a core for their Dantian or heart.

    So, from the Sacred Wheel Realm onwards, there would be differences.

    "By the Fourth Dao Tribtion, humans and devils have two tribtion cores¡ªDantian and heart for storage, and the Corona for utility. But a demon has only one tribtion core, the Demon Source. This source, a crucible of demonic energy and magic, exists independently from the demon''s physical body, so it can be used to forge a Sword Ring¡­"

    A Sword Ring formed from a Demon Source could harness the power of the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms, making it exponentially more powerful than the Blood Crystal Sword Rings of the First and Second Dao Tribtion.

    With this understanding, Moon Fairy¡¯s goal was straightforward!

    That was to acquire a Cmity Source for his tribtion quickly, create his own internal Demon Source, and enter the Fourth Dao Tribtion!

    "The Fourth Dao Tribtion for demons may not be as shy as a Corona, but it¡¯s purer, employing the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms to the utmost to forge the body and consolidate the Demon Source. So, in terms of sheerbat prowess, it might even surpass humans."

    It was the same baptism process; yet, it was simpler, making it far more brutal.

    Still, humans were diverse, with Sword, Inscription, Martial, and Anima Immortals!

    "Old Kapok." As the six-tailed demon fox ambled leisurely, he nced up at the old tree demon aloofly hanging above.

    "What¡¯s up?" Old Kapok chuckled.

    "Do you have a Cmity Source? I¡¯d like to borrow one," Moon Fairy asked straightforwardly.

    Demons, after all, were blunt!

    "Eh?" Even so, Old Kapok was taken aback, staring nkly at Moon Fairy.

    For Moon Fairy to ask this was nearly the same as saying, "Do you have a coffin handy? Lend it to me."

    In any ce, a Cmity Source was rare and precious, especially the supremely high-grade ones.

    "We¡¯re as close as brothers in this life; just tell me straight," Moon Fairy said.

    Being a body double, he wasn''t afraid of losing face.

    "Seriously..." Old Kapok stared at him, took a long pause, and then hesitantly said, "I do have one, but it¡¯s reserved for myself. Besides, you couldn¡¯t use it anyway!"

    "Why can''t I use it?" Moon Fairy asked.

    Old Kapok stretched out a branch and hushed, then leaned close to whisper, "Lil bro, I''ll tell you, but you must never speak of this."

    "Rest assured, our friendship has been forged through life and death," Moon Fairy said solemnly.

    "Cough, cough," Old Kapok nodded, then tensely disclosed, "This Cmity Source, it''s Sealing Heaven grade!"

    "Sealing Heaven grade? What level is that? Is it higher than the Defying Heaven grade?" Moon Fairy asked with a chuckle.

    "Damn it!" Old Kapok spat, "Don¡¯t y dumb, boy. Between the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades, from Common, Vast, Supreme, Dao, and Divine to the Defying, Sealing, Swallowing, and Burying! The Sealing Heaven is the seventh highest grade of the nine. Tell me, do you think it''s higher than the Defying Heaven grade?"

    "You''re right, it is a lot higher. So, high I''ve developed a fear of heights," Moon Fairyughed.

    "Still pretending, you cunning old fox," Old Kapok cursed yfully.

    But Moon Fairy wasn''t pretending at all. He had been studying the introduction to the Harmony Divine Pce for a long while, yet he had overlooked the true scope of the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades.

    "So, thest four grades are Defying, Sealing, Swallowing, and Burying!"

    The highest Burying Heaven grade also seemed rted to Yun Xiao''s Heaven Burial Sword Soul. From this, one could tell how revered Cmity Sources, celestial treasures, pills, and techniques of this grade were.

    "The first five grades all make sense¡ªCommon, Vast, Supreme, Dao, and Divine... But thest four grades begin with Defying, followed by Sealing, then Swallowing, and finally Burying... What terrible misdeeds did the wretched heavenmit, to be treated so harshly by the people who made up these grades? Haha."

    Moon Fairy wasughing when suddenly he realized that heaven in human terms referred to the creator... Wasn''t that himself?

    "Damn!" He couldn''tugh anymore.

    After all, these grades had be <em>Defy Me,</em><em>Seal Me</em>, <em>Swallow Me</em>, and <em>Bury Me</em>...

    Putting aside these silly thoughts, Moon Fairy hade to realize the rarity of Old Kapok''s Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source.

    "Old brother, forgive my boldness, but isn''t this Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source only useful once you''ve achieved the Third Baptism Realm? What''s your cultivation at right now?" Moon Fairy asked.

    Old Kapok puffed up proudly and chuckled. "Know why everyone respects me? Because I''m in the Second Baptism Realm, a sergeant in the Destion Corps with ten subordinates! My position is more tangible than your adjutant rank¡ªit''s actually on the books."

    Now Moon Fairy knew that within the Destion Corps, ranks were roughly divided by strength and cultivation, from Destion Soldier, Sergeant, Lieutenant, to Colonel.

    So that ck Brute Bear was truly formidable; she was in the Fourth Baptism Realm, having already passed half of the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms.

    Just a step awayy the rank of a true general in the Destion Corps.

    Old Kapok was a sergeant, having already transcended two tribtions. His next assault on the rank of lieutenant would allow him the use of a Seal Heaven grade Cmity Source.

    "Hold on¡­" Moon Fairy, smiling slyly, gazed at Old Kapok and asked, "Which stage of the Second Baptism Realm are you in?"

    Old Kapok replied with a sheepish grin, "The Early stage, what of it? That''s still the Second Baptism Realm."

    "And how long do you reckon it''ll be before you can use it?" Moon Fairy pressed.

    "Give this old one 500 years, and I shall break through my bloodline shackles, ascend to the Third Baptism Realm, andmand 100 soldiers of the Destion Corps, bringing honor to my ancestors," Old Kapok dered, his face alight with fervor.

    "Five hundred years? By then, your source will have gone off," Moon Fairy joked.

    "What are you saying? Can a Cmity Source even go off?" Old Kapok replied, bbergasted.

    "Bro!" Moon Fairy stopped walking and said earnestly, "Lend it to me. I''ll return ten Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Sources in a couple of days. You know my talent is exceptional."

    "Uh¡­" Old Kapok was clearly torn, saying, "Lil bro, it''s not that I''m stingy, but you really can''t use it now. You don''t even have a Demon Source, and you dare to use a Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source for your first baptism? Be careful not to explode into a puff."

    "Let me be honest with you, I''m also in the Second Baptism Realm. You can''t sense my Demon Source because it''s hidden deep. Plus, I''m already at the Establishment stage in this realm. Otherwise, how could I have taken on so many people back there at the Soul Refining Cauldron?" Moon Fairy exined seriously.

    "Really?" Old Kapok asked, skeptical.

    "I''d be less than human if I lied," Moon Fairy responded earnestly.

    "But you''re not human, are you?" Old Kapok retorted.

    "I''d be unworthy of being a fox if I lied!" Moon Fairy dered once more.

    Old Kapok''s face contorted with effort, but after a moment, he nodded, satisfied. "That''s more like it!"

    Moon Fairy had been bluffing somewhat, but surprisingly, it worked.

    "Old bro, you really are a good soul, truly a lifesaver," Moon Fairy eximed, moved.

    Old Kapok coughed a few times and said, "It''s mainly because you''re fated!"

    With that, he really did produce a pitch-ck box. Moon Fairy quickly transformed into human form and caught the Cmity Source.

    "This old thing has wanted to give it to you from the start; otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have mentioned having it," the Yaksha Ancestor remarked coolly.

    "I know, which is why I took it when the opportunity arose," Moon Fairy said.

    "What''s all this about?" The Nian didn''t quite understand.

    It was clearly a loan, yet their conversation sounded as if Old Kapok was offering a gift voluntarily.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Don''t worry about it too much, just keep your nose out, you daft mutt," the Yaksha Ancestor sneered.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 785: Bleak Bone Wildfire Calamity!

    "You damned baboon, your face and backside are the same shade of disgrace! I can''t tell which is which; both look equally foolish," the Nian barked in anger.

    And so, the quarreling erupted anew.

    Moon Fairy pressed his four eyes deeper into his body.

    As for Old Kapok¡­ What to say about him? This old tree wasn''t profound. He wasn''t the sort of portable old master the protagonist stumbled into by coincidence.

    He''d simply lived too long, bing cunning and clear-sighted, recognizing the unusual nature of Moon Fairy. So, he generously offered his help, a small investment, really. And he was banking on the pay-off being big.

    Even if Old Kapok had ulterior motives, Moon Fairy weed them, for indeed they solved an urgent problem.

    Moon Fairy eyed the pitch-ck box containing the Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source in his hand...

    "Aren''t you afraid of killing yourself?" the Nian asked.

    "If I die, I''ll just switch to a different body double," Moon Fairy replied."And what about me?" the Nian said in dismay.

    "You''re down to just two eyes; what does it matter if you live?" Moon Fairyughed.

    "No! I must keep these eyes open, or I can''t rest even in death!" the Nian roared.

    "Dumb mutt," the Yaksha Ancestor chuckled.

    Moon Fairy said no more and simply sat down in the deep abyss of the Beastly Peaks.

    "What are you doing?" Old Kapok eximed.

    "Facing a tribtion," Moon Fairy responded.

    "The Destion Corps is assembling for battle at the Ghost Cauldron, and you''re here facing a tribtion?" Old Kapok said, baffled.

    Moon Fairy nced around and said, "There are too many people, too much chaos. They''lle from all directions and it will take a while to assemble them. I have enough time."

    Overwhelmed, Old Kapok found himself speechless with admiration.

    "Old bro, if you''re worried about missing out, go ahead," Moon Fairy said softly.

    "Well, I might as well wait here; I''m just hitching a ride anyway," Old Kapok chuckled awkwardly.

    "You think I''ll run away?" Moon Fairy teased.

    "What are you saying? We''re brothers in this life, and trust is the first step in friendship," Old Kapok said earnestly.

    "Fair point." Moon Fairy gave him a thumbs up. "Then, I''m counting on you to keep watch."

    "Leave it to me," Old Kapok assured with a reliable air.

    Moon Fairy quickly readied himself. He opened the pitch-ck box, and inside was another box. He opened it again to find another box!

    After going through five nested boxes in session, it was clear how much Old Kapok treasured this Cmity Source.

    On thest box, the attributes of the Cmity Source were engraved.

    ¡¸<em>Bleak Bone Wildfire, Lower Sealing Heaven grade, channels ghastly wind and abyssal mes, invoking the Bleak Bone Wildfire Cmity¡ªbrutal in nature, primarily harms the heart and lungs, use with caution</em>.¡¹

    Moon Fairy nced over it, his expression unchanged.

    "I''ve already stored enough destion inside the Immortal Asylum, and now, only the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms can restrain me!"

    If Moon Fairy could sessfully transcend this tribtion, his power and cultivation would skyrocket. He might even surpass his true self and Blood Base.

    The challenge of Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source was immense, but the rewards, should he endure, were staggering.

    Moon Fairy took a deep breath and opened that final box. Inside the jade box was a half piece of a finger bone.

    The bone was ghastly white, wrapped in a cold wind sharp as a de, while ayer of cold fire covered it, burning yet chilling to the bone.

    "Using this Cmity Source, this body double of mine might be more inclined towards the dark, cold-blooded, and brutal."

    This was the result of the Nian and the Yaksha Ancestor''s bloodlines, as well as the environment of the Six Paths of Reincarnation.

    However, Yun Xiao was indifferent, as long as his true self remained unchanged.

    As for why the Bleak Bone Wildfire took the form of a finger bone, that was beyond him.

    That was a question for the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity!

    "Swallow!" Moon Fairy picked up the finger bone and swallowed it whole.

    Ghastly winds and abyssal mes entered his body!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    A mere fragment of a finger bone unleashed the endless Bleak Bone Wildfire Cmity. Starting from his gut, it assaulted every corner of his body, even turning his silver hairs into conduits for tribtion.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Moon Fairy transformed into a beast, his six-tailed silver fox form instantly engulfed by the ghastly winds and abyssal mes. A massive force of bleak tribtion energy swarmed, invading the demon fox, constantly intensifying the tribtion''s power.

    "This is his first baptism, and he''s using a Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source..." Old Kapok, standing afar, clenched his fists, his face a mask of awe and terror. Of course, he didn''t believe Moon Fairy''s flimsy lie. "If he actually seeds, wouldn''t that break the history of the Samsara Gxy?"

    Even though Moon Fairy was still going through the tribtion, unsure of life or death, Old Kapok had already developed profound respect for him, for not everyone possessed such bravery.

    He was impressed beyond words!

    Amidst his shock, a fervent hope rose in him. Transforming into human form, Old Kapok sped his hands, praying for Moon Fairy''s sess...

    After all, he had invested everything in this!

    "Lil brother, hold on, just hold on!"

    In his eyes, within the deep abyss of the Beastly Peaks, the terrifying tribtion power had already formed a white cocoon of wind and fire. The silver fox waspletely swallowed up, almost as if turned to ash!

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>The white abyssal me, an absolute form of Yin Fire, caused the surrounding rocks to frost over and freeze, including Old Kapok''s own beard, now frosted white.

    He quickly channeled his Second Baptism Realm cultivation to protect himself.

    "That tribtion is so powerful. Even I''d be toast if I tried going through it now. Can he actually endure it?" Old Kapok dared not imagine.

    "GAAAGH!" From within the cocoon of wind and fire, he heard the suppressed screams of the silver fox. He even faintly saw its flesh being burned,pletely charred into crumbling soot, then swept away by the harsh winds!

    This revealed the destructive power of the Sealing Heaven grade Bleak Bone Wildfire Cmity.

    "It''s over! My lil bro is gone... The limits of this world, indeed, cannot be challenged..." Old Kapok''s boiling blood, after simmering for a brief moment, felt as though doused with cold water.

    He was impulsive today! And now, the harsh reality hammered down his newly bold heart once more, chilling him to the bone. Yes, he was still alive, but he would forever be unable to raise his head before the stronger.

    "s..." Old Kapok sighed deeply.

    "Goodbye, lil bro. A pity you didn''t die in the Reincarnation Bastion, with no rebirth to follow¡­"

    Speaking of which, he fell silent, for the Reincarnation Bastion had also been temporarily destroyed.

    "Ah, life is full of disappointments!" Old Kapokmented, feeling an urge to cry. He turned around, the world around him dark and gloomy.

    "Old Kapok..."

    Just at this darkest moment, suddenly, a soft yet forceful voice came from behind.

    Old Kapok shivered! He whirled around!

    There, within the cocoon of howling ghastly winds and cold abyssal me, he saw a silver-haired youth, his body enveloped in wind and fire, one eye swirling like a hurricane, the other burning like fierce mes...

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In that instant, the rampaging power of the Bleak Bone Wildfire Cmity was swallowed by the youth!

    Before Old Kapok, this youthful figure, ambiguous in gender, had skin white as snow and a cold body, with silver hair fluttering wildly...

    He had even grown three more tails! Now, with nine tails adorned!

    At this moment, under the forging of the Will of Divine Destion, the Divine Destion Physique had be like a raw gem of heaven and earth, splendid and explosive.

    Old Kapok knew Moon Fairy had only stepped into the First Baptism Realm! But he also knew even a sergeant like him might no longer be a match for him.

    He couldn''t help but tear up. He looked deeply at Moon Fairy and said, "Lil bro, since we are brothers, could you perhaps give me somefort first?"

    Moon Fairy paused, asking, "What do you mean?"

    Old Kapok pped his thigh and said, "You really look like a girl..."

    At this, Moon Fairy became indignant.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>He transformed into his beast form, the magnificent, dazzling, nine-tailed silver fox, surrounded by wind and fire, proudly standing between heaven and earth, his body thronged with the power of the Bleak Bone Wildfire Cmity!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>He charged toward the direction of the Ghost Cauldron, vanishing in a sh.

    "Eh?" Old Kapok froze, then broke into a run, yelling, "Wait, my ride..."

 Chapter 786: Five-Colored Qilin!

    "With a Demon Source formed, a demon truly gains a heart." Moon Fairy''s nine-tailed fox form sprinted through the vast, deste, and gray chaotic mountains, spinning like a silvery moon.

    Yun Xiao had long mastered control of this beastly form.

    In this world, he was the fox! But the heart he spoke of was not of flesh but a core¡ªa center ofbat prowess and raw energy.

    This Demon Source was located right where the Divine Destion Dao Heart was centered, wrapped in tribtion power. Ghastly gales howled and abyssal mes ravaged, sweeping through his entire being.

    Each silver hair on his body twirled with wind and mes, growing ever more sinister and eerie.

    <em>RIP! </em>Above and below Moon Fairy''s eyes, the eyes of the Nian and Yaksha Ancestor split open¡ªslender and bloody, respectively, totaling six eyes that saw heaven, ahead, and behind, leaving almost no angle uncovered!

    Segments of the Immortal Asylum forged into silver edges on his fangs, subtly permeated by the power of Heavenly Sins, presenting a deeper horror.

    Inside two segments of the hollow Immortal Asylum, a vast amount of destion was stored from the Soul Refining Cauldron¡ªa level of power so heaven-defying that not even a demon in the Third Baptism Realm could withstand it.

    At that moment, this destion oil from the Immortal Asylum poured into Moon Fairy¡¯s body.Moon Fairy had just transcended the first of the Eight Extremes Celestial baptisms. As long as he had enough destion, breaking through from the Early stage of the First Baptism Realm to the Establishment stage would be no issue at all!

    He continued his journey toward the Ghost Cauldron, running and breaking through simultaneously!

    His Divine Destion Demon Source and Physique swallowed tribtion power and destion, strengthening every moment.

    ¡°Hold up, little bro! Wait up!¡± Old Kapok had no choice but to transform into human form, scrambling and rolling to keep up, panting heavily over this short distance.

    Finally, Moon Fairy halted, standing atop a mountain peak, the six eyes on that fox head scrutinizing Old Kapok from a lofty perch.

    Old Kapok looked up to see the nine-tailed silver fox amidst the swirling clouds and gray mist, his scalp tingling with fright.

    He couldn''t help but ask, ¡°Is this a cuddly fox species or a supreme demonic beast?¡±

    Fortunately, his heart only quivered briefly before Moon Fairy softly told him, ¡°Come up here.¡±

    ¡°Alright, alright, alright!¡± Exhausted, Old Kapok realized more than ever how old he had be. He turned into a tree, hanging onto Moon Fairy''s back, urging, ¡°Hurry, hurry, they have already assembled finally. If we¡¯rete, the Colonel will have my tree bark.¡±

    ¡°Am I not in trouble?" Moon Fairy asked coolly.

    ¡°You¡¯re fine, you¡¯re her darling,¡± Old Kapok said enviously.

    Moon Fairy knew well that if not for his tough fortune, his neck would have been twisted into dust by now.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>His six eyes surveyed ahead toward the Ghost Cauldron. The ghastly green mes of the Reincarnation Wick cast the sky in a most sinister light, resembling hell itself.

    Clearly visible, the Ghost Cauldron was now surrounded by the endless ranks of the Destion Corps, a tumultuous uproar shaking the very air.

    The demon armycked the strict discipline and solemnity of the human forces; each demon was wildly restless.

    Correspondingly, their battle fervor was stronger, their fighting more ferocious.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Giant demons, their ws and bodies smashing mountain peaks, stirred up storms and wildfires, all converging towards the Ghost Cauldron.

    Moon Fairy said nothing, elerating to his greatest speed. Wrapped in wind and mes, his silvery form surpassed many of therger and more ferocious demons.

    The Ghost Cauldron drew ever closer! The nearer he got, the more immense and majestic it appeared.

    It towered over all the mountains of the Beastly Peaks, its surface carved with innumerable beastly faces. Even the faces of sheep and rabbits were twisted into ferocious snarls, their eyes blood-red and terrifying.

    These crimson eyes were like numerous red specks on the Ghost Cauldron, shimmering with dense, bloody light, like a scarlet starry gxy.

    ¡°Truly a fine artifact...¡± Moon Fairy murmured appreciatively.

    ¡°Quick, over there,¡± Old Kapok called, having found the contingent led by the ck Brute Bear¡ªa 1,000-strong force known as the ck Brute Battalion.

    Clearly, the Colonel adorned with dragon scalesmanded the forefront. Under its oppressive aura, over 1,000 fierce demons of the Destion Corpsy prostrate on the ground, daring not to move.

    Observing that formidable form, Moon Fairy could hardly believe how he had once frolicked with her, given the stark contrast between their true forms and human guises.

    <em>HUM! </em>Moon Fairy and Old Kapoknded at the back of the troop.

    ¡°Adjutants and sergeants ought to be at the front,¡± Old Kapok said sheepishly.

    ¡°Hmm.¡± Moon Fairy nodded, striding forward on his silver-furred limbs, passing the fierce demons of the ck Brute Battalion.

    After the ferocious carnage at the Soul Refining Cauldron, most of these fierce demons now bowed their heads at his sight.

    When the Colonel caught a whiff of him, she whirled around, her enormous bear eyes ring at Moon Fairy as he drew closer.

    "Am Ite?" Moon Fairy addressed the massive bear head before him.

    "Quite the progress," the Colonel observed, giving him a peculiar look.

    "When will you test my demon talent?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "After our distinguished guest has made their appearance!" the Colonel, Lin Daiyuan, replied, then turned her gaze solemnly towards the Ghost Cauldron.

    Moon Fairy followed her gaze. There, amidst surging clouds and mist, stood a group of <em>people</em>.

    These individuals, radiating a demonic aura even more formidable than that of Lin Daiyuan, were clearly generals of the 1,000,000-strong Destion Corps.

    They were usually in their demonic forms and their transformation into human forms today indicated that their distinguished guest was not a demon.

    Moon Fairy nced over to Lin Daiyuan''s side.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Thousands of Destion Corps officers like her, each leading their contingent of 1,000 demons, had amassed 1,000,000 fierce and giant demons, all arrayed before the Ghost Cauldron.

    As far as the eye could see, demons rampaged, with demonic miasma filling the sky.

    "The Destion Marshal has arrived!"

    Just then, a thunderous promation echoed across the entire Beastly Peaks.

    "Is the Destion Marshal the suprememander of this 1,000,000-strong Destion Corps? I wonder who''s stronger, the Destion Marshal or that Diva of the Harmony Divine Pce?" Moon Fairy pondered, looking upward.

    <em>BOOM! </em>At that moment, the 1,000,000-strong horde of demons, no matter how bizarre or unusual, even a tree, all bowed and bent their knees in a military salute towards that direction.

    "The Destion Marshal is mighty!"

    The 1,000,000-strong horde roared. Though the chant was somewhat crude, the aura was truly terrifying.

    Under the watchful eyes of the Destion Corps, what descended amidst the ck demonic mist was not a giant beast but another demon in human form!

    As soon as it appeared, Moon Fairy could feel an overwhelming oppressive force that seemed to engulf everything and devour the sky.

    It was clear that this demon''s ability tomand the 1,000,000-strong army was key to its strength.

    Moon Fairy¡¯s six eyes saw even clearer!

    The first thing that caught his eye was a suit of pitch-ck scale armor,plete with a cape, battle boots, and a beastly breastte, exuding an aura of divine martial prowess and dominance.

    But just the sight of the ck scale armor made Moon Fairy pause again.

    "A woman?"

    It wasn''t that he underestimated women, but the brutal nature of the demons of the Beastly Peaks... made one instinctively assume their leader would be even more ferocious.

    From her first appearance, the Destion Marshal bore a certain resemnce to Empress Zhao, embodying a dignity and nobility of sorts.

    Yet,pared to Empress Zhao, she radiated more dominance and valor, exuding the lofty aura of a female sovereign.

    "The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is mostly women, so I get it. But why are all the bigshots of the Six Paths of Reincarnation women too¡­?" Moon Fairy mused somewhat incredulously.

    He was in the midst of his grumbling¡­ when next he glimpsed her face upon the ck scale armor.

    "Cough, well, so what if she''s a woman?"

    She was stunning!

    "I''d expect nothing less of a Category 3 Celestial Realm!"

    Whether it was the snow-haired, pink-eyed Diva of the Harmony Divine Pce or this Destion Marshal before him, both were beauties beyondpare, celestial in their allure.

    The former was pure as driven snow; thetter dignified, with a spirited look in her eyes, outstanding and full of life.

    The most striking feature of the Destion Marshal was her multicolored hair.

    Against her ck scale armor, it flowed like a rainbow waterfall, creating a striking contrast that enhanced her ascetic, cool oval face.

    One could only imagine, beneath that sealed ck armor, her figure must be equally breathtaking.

    Most notably, upon first sight of the Destion Marshal, Moon Fairy felt that Lin Daiyuan, the muscr and sultry beauty beside him, suddenly seemed utterly nd.

    Clearly, though, the Destion Marshal was of an extraordinarily high rank. Moon Fairy sensed she might be a highborn mythical beast, imparting a sense of nobility and might, rather than the brute ferocity typical of other Destion Corps demons.

    So, Moon Fairy discreetly retreated back to Old Kapok''s side, asking softly, "Hey, what''s the Destion Marshal''s true form?"

    "A pinnacle beast of the Six Paths of Reincarnation¡ªthe Five-Colored Kirin," Old Kapok replied with immense reverence and admiration.

    Indeed, a creature of good fortune; no wonder she carried such an air of grandeur.

    "Tomand such an army, she must be an extraordinary woman," Moon Fairy remarked.

    "Indeed!" Old Kapok agreed, deeply moved.

    As they conversed, the 1,000,000-strong horde continued to revel in the Destion Marshal''s presence.

    And there, the Five-Colored Qilin, alongside the other transformed generals of the Destion Corps, approached the front of the army.

    The entire army stood at attention!

    The Destion Corps'' generals, numbering in the hundreds, included ranks known as Generals of Heaven and Earth and Generals of Xuan and Huang, all superior to a Colonel.

    Moon Fairy estimated that these were akin to the Valkyries and Valkyrie Princesses of the Harmony Divine Pce¡ªpirs in the world''s hierarchy!

    Hardly needing to speak, the Destion Marshal''s mere presence calmed the restless spirits of 1,000,000 demons, and true silence fell across the beastly mountain range.

    "A distinguished guest has arrived."

    Following the announcement, from the clouds in the west, came the sound of deep,bored breaths.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Massive figures with the heads of bulls and horses, dragging crimson chains, sliced through the sky to descend.

    Behind those chains, they pulled a chariot of crimson hues.

    "Lucky omen or a curse?"

    At first nce of this celestial pnquin, Moon Fairy''s pupils shrank. The curtain of the pnquin bore the imprint of kapok flowers!

    Moon Fairy was all too familiar with it. That woman had kidnapped Pale Revenant and the Great Mother, and he still harbored a deep grudge for this blood feud!

    "Hmm?" However, as the pnquin drew closer, Moon Fairy realized it was not the same one from before, as this one wasrger, more solemn, and more impressive, and the creatures pulling it were far more numerous than before.

    "The Royal Family of Yanfu!" Old Kapok, upon seeing the pnquin, immediately trembled all over and quickly hid behind Moon Fairy.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 787: Saving the World on His Arrival!

    "The Royal Family of Yanfu? Are they as formidable as they sound? Fond of romantic adventures?" Moon Fairy couldn''t help but ask,

    "What nonsense are you talking about? They belong to the Asura Path. Of course, they''re dreadful¡­" Old Kapok, more fearful than the other demons, knew well enough.

    Moon Fairy, aware that Old Kapok¡¯s true form was a kapok flower, which the Royal Family of Yanfu used as their emblem, prodded gently, "What scares you? Just because they embroider you on their curtains?"

    "Stop, please no more," Old Kapok morphed into a human form and shrank within his fur, his body slick with cold sweat.

    Seeing him thus, Moon Fairy knew he was too terrified to speak!

    Moon Fairy was in no rush, soothing Old Kapok while casting a cold gaze as the celestial pnquin descended.

    Because of this n''s notorious reputation, Moon Fairy harbored a natural disdain for anyone bearing the surname Yanfu.

    "Wee, Fleeting Life King." The Destion Marshal spoke ahead of her troops, her voice cold and authoritative, naturally imposing. Yet, such a voice, if it softened, could be quite charming.

    "A pleasure, Destion Marshal," came a heartyugh from the pnquin.As the curtain lifted, a burly middle-aged man in ck stepped out, his garments embroidered with kapok flowers. His face was strikingly handsome, his eyes deep like abysses, his long hair flowing like a waterfall, his presence imposing.

    In terms of aura, he stood equal to the Destion Marshal.

    "This aura... is it of a devil?" Moon Fairy murmured. Having nearly been killed by someone of this n upon his arrival in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, he was initially unclear about what they were.

    The middle-aged man had a bizarre Corona twined around his neck. It resembled a wreath, yet moved and squirmed like a living thing. It was different from that of a human, more devilish! And judging by the overpowering bloody aura he was radiating, he was definitely a devil!

    "Of course, he''s a devil! He''s an Asura, the perfect devil of the Samsara Gxy! They alonemand the Asura, spreading their influence across the gxy," Old Kapok whispered weakly.

    "Remarkable, more human-like than any Yin Devil I''ve encountered before," Moon Fairy remarked.

    "That''s because they haven''t revealed their true devil forms. Once they do, it''s a whole other extreme," Old Kapok exined.

    "Mhm." Moon Fairy felt he was starting to understand.

    "His name is Yanfu Sheng, the Fleeting Life King?" Moon Fairy guessed.

    "Yes, he''s a bigshot of the Asura Path¡­"

    "Hey, does he have anything to do with someone named Yanfu Tan?" Moon Fairy casually remarked.

    "Yanfu Tan? That''s his younger sister¡­" Old Kapok seemed to know quite a bit about these affairs.

    So it was settled. The question now was, what brought the Fleeting Life King to the Beastly Peaks?

    Moon Fairy watched as the Destion Marshal exchanged a few cordial words with the Fleeting Life King, then got straight to the point, saying, "We owe you much for your work on the Reincarnation Wick."

    "It is my honor to serve you, Destion Marshal."

    The Fleeting Life King seemed straightforward and maintained a respectful distance from the Destion Marshal.

    "Why does he seem so cautious?" Moon Fairy raised an eyebrow.

    "Simple, he''s wary of the man behind the Destion Marshal!" Old Kapok dered.

    "Is the Destion Marshal married?" Moon Fairy asked through clenched teeth.

    "Of course, her daughter is all grown up," Old Kapok replied with a peculiar look at Moon Fairy.

    To him, Moon Fairy''s background seemed even more mysterious now.

    "Oh." Moon Fairy was unmoved mentally.

    The forces within the Six Paths of Reincarnation were intertwined andplex, not easily understood. Power was what mattered most!

    Just now, that discussion between the Fleeting Life King and the Destion Marshal was about the Reincarnation Wick...

    Under the guidance of the Destion Marshal and her generals, the Fleeting Life King soared into the air and ascended the Ghost Cauldron!

    "I understand now. The Fleeting Life King has the ability to purify the wick. It seems the wick''s me has indeed been poortely, even at risk of going out," Moon Fairy deduced.

    After the Fleeting Life King had entered, Old Kapok dared to speak up.

    "Can it actually go out? What happens if it does?" Moon Fairy inquired.

    "That would be a major problem. Without the me, a third of the Beast Path would fall into chaos!" Old Kapok sighed.

    "Would that mean many of our kind would die?" Moon Fairy probed.

    "Indeed, it would be a disaster," Old Kapok confirmed.

    Moon Fairy looked up, thinking the wick was burning brightly as the sky was aglow with green, unaware that this was considered a poor me.

    "Is only the Royal Family of Yanfu capable of fixing this?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "Not exactly, there are many solutions, but the n from the Royal Family of Yanfu is the most effective. Plus, the Asura Path has a good rtionship with the Beast Path, so they extended a favor," Old Kapok exined.

    Given that a figure like Old Kapok knew about this, It seemed the matter was hardly a secret.

    "Oh." Moon Fairy only wanted to steal the Reincarnation Wick, so he paid some attention.

    "But, you know¡­" Old Kapok suddenly swelled with pride, proiming, "Actually, our Beast Path could solve the issue of the Reincarnation Wick ourselves, but such talent onlyes once every blue moon."

    "What kind of talent?" Moon Fairy inquired.

    "The closer a demon is aligned with destion, the more they can stimte the Reincarnation Wick''s self-purification. It''s said that if a demon''s destion affinity reaches over 80%, they can rejuvenate the Reincarnation Wick, restoring it to its peak, ensuring it burns eternal!" Old Kapok said wistfully.

    "Oh?" Moon Fairy felt it too, as if a life within the Ghost Cauldron was calling out to him.

    It was a curious feeling, as if therey a withered nt there, and he was the dew that could nourish it.

    "So, if such a demon exists, what should be done?" Moon Fairy gazed at the Ghost Cauldron, asking casually with a smile.

    "I don¡¯t know, they say you just need to be close to it! Magical, isn¡¯t it?" Old Kapok chuckled.

    "Indeed magical," Moon Fairy mused.

    Suddenly, the Ghost Cauldron began to vibrate!

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>It was clear to see, the ghastly green me on the Ghost Cauldron suddenly tripled in intensity, shooting up to the heavens, the surging mes turning half the sky a brilliant green!

    In that moment, it truly seemed like the fire of life!

    The 1,000,000-strong Destion Corps erupted in cheers.

    "Fleeting Life King! Fleeting Life King!"

    Clearly, the Destion Marshal had summoned the entire army for this moment¡¯s atmosphere, at least to give the distinguished guest the full honors!

    The wild cheers that shook the Beastly Peaks, along with the zing green me, ignited the hearts of all the ferocious demons.

    Below the Ghost Cauldron, the rainbow-haired Destion Marshal and her generals all showed relieved smiles.

    "The Reincarnation Wick has revived!"

    "It had to be the Royal Family of Yanfu!"

    "To have such friends, we are indeed fortunate¡­"

    The Beastly Peaks was draped in festivity.

    "It''s not truly better, just a brief resurgence," Moon Fairy said as he watched the fierce fire of life, suddenly speaking out.

    "What did you just say?" Old Kapok looked puzzled.

    What was the young one implying? Surely he hadn¡¯t lost his mind? Just as he pondered this, the zing green fire quickly died out, the me dwindling as if the oil had run dry, swiftly extinguishing. The green fire flickered like dying embers in the wind, barely alive!

    The world¡¯s green light dimmed in an instant!

    The entire Beastly Peaks plunged into a darker gloom than before, as the power of endless storms began to brew.

    Beneath this deste wind, the life me of the Reincarnation Wick looked even more pitiful and dim.

    Its me continued to fall! This abrupt change plunged the recently jubnt Beastly Peaks into a deadly silence.

    Everyone was stunned, their eyes wide open!

    "What''s going on?"

    "Is the Reincarnation Wick about to go outpletely?"

    "We''re cooked! We''re absolutely cooked!"

    "What do you mean <em>cooked</em>? The me''s gone out. We''re doomed!"

    A million demons of the Destion Corps were instantly thrown into chaos.

    The Destion Marshal and her generals, among other beings, turned pale with shock.

    "Fleeting Life King!" the Destion Marshal called out as she soared into the sky, meeting the Fleeting Life King who was just emerging.

    The Fleeting Life King looked troubled and said, "The situation is quite bad."

    "Speak!" The Destion Marshal, foregoing pleasantries, pressed for answers urgently.

    "The wick is severely damaged, not just clogged with oil but harmed in its very life force. After I removed the oil buildup, the damage to the wick... nothing can save it," the Fleeting Life King said through clenched teeth, his expression filled with regret.

    "You!" At that moment, the Destion Marshal couldn¡¯t determine whether the Fleeting Life King was telling the whole truth, or only part of it.

    The Beastly Peaks, once draped in festivity, now trembled on the brink of despair.

    "Destion Marshal!" Deep breath drawn, the Fleeting Life King''s eyes bore the weight of severity as he implored, "Hear me out! There''s more than a 60% chance that the Reincarnation Wick will extinguish soon. We mustmit 100,000 troops of the Destion Corps to nourish the wick with their lives to save it!"

    "A hundred thousand troops of my Destion Corps? No!" The Destion Marshal trembled at the thought.

    "If the Reincarnation Wick goes out, the death toll in the Beast Path will far exceed 100,000..." the Fleeting Life King sighed heavily, adding, "With the Six-Eyed Pandemonium dead and the Reincarnation Bastion in ruins, the Six Paths of Reincarnation may spiral out of control. In these dire times, please prioritize the greater good. Let some be the eternal heroes of the Beast Path!"

    As these words left his mouth, the Destion Marshal, floating in the air, struggled visibly. Her face, usually somanding, was now etched with conflict and deep pain.

    This 1,000,000-strong Destion Corps was the work of her lifetime!

    How could she easily sacrifice 100,000 lives to fill this breach?

    "Destion Marshal, there''s no time left!" the Fleeting Life King¡¯s voice boomed.

    As the Reincarnation Wick''s light flickered towards darkness, the 1,000,000-strong Destion Corps below descended into chaos, cries of despair filling the air.

    The Fleeting Life King''s shout only deepened the Destion Marshal¡¯s internal agony. Her eyes were already red with pain!

    In this tumultuous moment, a silver nine-tailed fox suddenly broke rank, dashing towards the Ghost Cauldron.

    "Moon Fairy! Stop!" Lin Daiyu, already overwhelmed, spotted him nearing the position of the generals and shouted in rm.

    What was this imp adding to her troubles now?

    Unexpectedly, Moon Fairy ignored her!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>His speed was astonishing!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Whose soldier is this?" one of the generals demanded coldly as they noticed Moon Fairy crossing boundaries.

    "Stop!" Lin Daiyu, heart pounding, roared as she chased after Moon Fairy.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>A giant bear furiously chased the nine-tailed fox through billowing smoke.

    "Madness!" Lin Daiyu realized, to her dismay, she couldn''t catch him in short order. "You''re seeking death, little fox!" she bellowed in anger.

    Moon Fairy reached the base of the Ghost Cauldron, transforming into his human form. He ced a hand on the cauldron, turning to say, "Seeking death? I''m saving the world!"

    "You fool..." Lin Daiyu, fury boiling over, began to curse.

    However, the moment Moon Fairy¡¯s hand touched the Ghost Cauldron, the fire of the Reincarnation Wick zed tenfold higher, illuminating the entire sky of the Beast Path!

 Chapter 788: Good Work, Colonel Lin!

    It was green! A dazzling ghastly green light filled the sky!

    From the Ghost Cauldron, the life me of the Reincarnation Wick once subdued, now burst forth in a fury, forming a towering pir of me that scorched the gray mists and ck clouds above.

    Below the Beastly Peaks, the faces and armor of the Destion Corps gleamed a ghastly green.

    Even their teeth and tongues sparkled with an eerie green light!

    "Wick! The wick..."

    Terrifying demons and gigantic monsters, their eyes wider than their gaping mouths, rubbed their eyes in disbelief.

    The tumult within their hearts was immense!

    First, the purification of the wick by the Fleeting Life King ignited cheers, then despair at its near extinguishment, and now, as the wick''s life red tenfold, their spirits soared once again to the heavens!

    Words failed them, their excitement and exhration could only be expressed through hysterical roars.Moon Fairy''s intervention had drawn some outrage. But now, as the Reincarnation Wick consumed the heavens, a thousand emotions violently shook the Destion Corps, their eyes fixed on the silver-haired youth beside the Ghost Cauldron!

    There, the fox demon, transformed into human form, pressed a palm against the Ghost Cauldron. His five fingers extended into five green fiery paths of life, entwining the entire cauldron and spreading inside!

    These five green paths of fire were irrefutable proof of the dramatic change in the wick, and Moon Fairy¡¯s undeniable connection to it¡­

    The shock from the revival of the life me was long from settling.

    Even the high-ranking officers of the Destion Corps were stunned, the hundreds of Heaven and Earth Generals stood rooted, each looking like frozen statues.

    "You, you..." The ck Bute Bear, Lin Daiyuan, looked like she''d been struck by lightning. She stared nkly at Moon Fairy, her heart a tumultuous sea of conflicting emotions.

    Her heart trembled the most! Moon Fairy had wrought such a miracle! And because she had been the one to bring him back, she surely yed a part in this.

    But the issuey with the Soul Refining Cauldron incident, where the little fox had strayed from the group, and for the sake of military discipline, she had been forced to act against him.

    If not for that, she, too, would be rejoicing like the others. And now, her heart twisted into a knot, her face an array of conflicting emotions.

    ¡°How powerful must his destion talents be to reignite the Reincarnation Wick?¡±n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    This question lingered in the hearts of all the demons, a mystery they couldn¡¯t hope to unravel.

    ¡°Destion Marshal!¡±

    At that moment, the generals of the Destion Corps all turned toward theirmander, faces alight with excitement, their expressions gleaming like polished oil.

    In their tion, they nearly forgot about the Fleeting Life King!

    When despair had reached its peak, the savior had arrived just in time¡­ who would have believed it?

    Amid the gazes of the gathered demons, the Destion Marshal, hidden behind her ck-scaled armor, let out a long breath, her vibrant, multicolored eyes brimming with joy and relief.

    She had carried the heaviest burden!

    The arrival of Moon Fairy was like a legendary hero descending from the heavens, shattering the weight of 1,000,000 mountains pressing down on her.

    Atst, she could breathe again.

    ¡°A blessed star has descended, protecting our Reincarnation Demon n!¡± The Destion Marshal inhaled deeply and, in a sh, appeared beside Moon Fairy.

    Catching a whiff of the fragrant air, Moon Fairy turned his head and locked eyes with those dazzling, multicolored eyes.

    Up close, even though only the Destion Marshal''s face was visible, Moon Fairy could sense hermanding beauty¡ªgraceful, dignified, almost divine. For a demon to exude such an air of nobility and righteousness was exceedingly rare.

    None of the demons Moon Fairy had encountered carried this kind of presence.

    Demons, after all, defied the heavens and awakened their intellect through sheer will; most carried an inherent wickedness.

    But this Destion Marshal... she was different, a force of grandeur, as radiant as a goddess.

    Her eyes shimmered with emotion as she suppressed her excitement, speaking as gently as she could. ¡°Youngdy, you arrived just in time. You saved the Beast Path! You are the fortune of our demon n¡­¡±

    Moon Fairy was basking in this reverence when the words nearly made him choke. Helpless, he corrected her, "Erhm, I''m a male fox.¡±

    ¡°Ah?¡± The Destion Marshal blinked at his stunning face, suddenly noticing the unmistakable Adam¡¯s apple and the sharp, predatory glint in his eyes. An awkward smile crept across her face. ¡°I must apologize. My mistake.¡±

    For someone of her stature to apologize, it showed how monumental Moon Fairy¡¯s actions had been.

    ¡°Destion Marshal, may I enter?¡± Moon Fairy asked.

    ¡°The Ghost Cauldron has a suppressive force. I¡¯ll lead you inside,¡± the Destion Marshal replied.

    ¡°I appreciate it,¡± Moon Fairy said.

    As the words left his mouth, the Destion Marshal reached out and took hold of Moon Fairy¡¯s hand.

    Though she stood not as tall as Lin Daiyuan, her towering presence was unmistakable, and with a mere gesture, she could easily lift Moon Fairy into the skies.

    Together, they soared toward the heavens!

    "Follow me." The Destion Marshal led him inside the Ghost Cauldron, now entirely filled with the mes of the Reincarnation Wick.

    As Moon Fairynded, the green mes parted for him, while the Destion Marshal shielded him from the Ghost Cauldron''s oppressive force.

    Close at hand, her brisk and dashing beauty was even more palpable, her multicolored hair fluttering before his eyes like a surrounding rainbow.

    "The wick is up ahead."

    The first time he set eyes on the Reincarnation Wick, Moon Fairy paused, stunned. For the wick bore a human form, like a white jade maiden in bud, her eyes tightly shut, lost in deep slumber.

    "How is it faring?" the Destion Marshal asked, her voice tinged with anxiety as she noticed the cracks and signs of aging on the jade maiden''s body.

    "It''s fine, as long as I am here, it''ll remain healthy," Moon Fairy reassured her, descending to the closest point to the Reincarnation Wick and touching its face.

    At that moment, the Reincarnation Wick seemed to open its eyes, and endless vitality began to revive within it, as if refreshed by sweet rain, making the fire of life upon it burn even brighter.

    Exmations of awe echoed from outside.

    Under Moon Fairy''s touch, the aging and cracks on it were slowly healing.

    "I wille here daily for a while, and in half a month, it should fully recover to its optimal state," Moon Fairy turned back and informed the Destion Marshal.

    Truth be told, he could restore the Reincarnation Wick immediately, ensuring it wouldst 1,000 years without fail... but then, what use would he be?

    It was important to remain necessary.

    "Good, very good."

    Upon hearing this, the Destion Marshal''s tensed heartstrings finally rxed.

    "Let us leave now," she suggested.

    "Yes."

    Holding the Destion Marshal''s hand, Moon Fairy followed her like a child flying out of the Ghost Cauldron.

    He nced back at the Reincarnation Wick, thinking of Lady Hua Lian...

    "Although I''m eager for her rebirth, now is not the right time. I must first use the wick to greatly enhance my strength quickly. Once my power is sufficient, what can''t I do?"

    With this thought, Moon Fairy contained his impatience.

    Soon, the young fox and Destion Marshal reappeared before the Destion Corps. Once outside, it was even more evident that the fire of the Reincarnation Wick was now perfectly sustained, radiating a sense of unending vitality.

    Before the million soldiers, the Destion Marshal, with a smile bright upon her face, made a joyous promation, "Heaven has eyes! Our ancestors protect us! In the Beast Path, a demon of our kind with an over 80% destion affinity has arisen. Not only has he mended the ailment of the Reincarnation Wick but he will also restore it to its peak, ensuring it decays not for 1,000, even 10,000 years."

    With the Destion Marshal''s confirmation, the hearts of the demons were relieved, plunging them into wild celebration, their gazes burning with fervor as they looked upon Moon Fairy, their chests swelling like volcanoes ready to erupt.

    "Little Fox, let all your brethren of the demon race know your name!" the Destion Marshal turned to him, her smile unmistakable.

    It was well known that the Destion Marshal seldom smiled. Many had followed her for decades and had scarcely seen her smile as much as on this day. Such was the joy in her heart.

    "My name is Moon Fairy. Newly initiated into the Six Paths of Reincarnation, I was chosen by the ck Brute Battalion and am serving as adjutant to Colonel Lin Daiyuan," Yun Xiao dered, using his body double to address the vast army, introducing not only himself but also casting Lin Daiyuan into the spotlight.

    "Moon Fairy! Moon Fairy!"

    Demons, straightforward and direct by nature, openly expressed their admiration for Moon Fairy without restraint.

    For a moment, the name Moon Fairy reverberated through the mountains, its echo longsting.

    Old Kapok and the other fearsome demons of the ck Brute Battalion were all stunned...

    And there stood Lin Daiyuan, isted among the group of Destion Corps generals, her face a picture of bewildered awe.

    "Colonel Lin, well done."

    "An eye for talent, Lin Daiyuan. You''re doing us proud."

    "To think such a genius was discovered by you."

    Each word of praise from her superiors only heightened Lin Daiyuan¡¯s anxiety. Because of that one moment, she was now tormented with regret, wishing she could have done things differently...

    Apart from her, it seemed the entire Beastly Peaks was in celebration!

    And of course, there was one more.

    That was the Fleeting Life King. He had been silent for a while, but now he approached, looking at Moon Fairy and saying to the Destion Marshal, "Congrattions to the Destion Marshal, and to the entire Beast Path! With such a demon, we are secure for 10,000 years."

    The Destion Marshal bowed. "I am deeply grateful for your help this time. Should the Reincarnation Wick of the Asura Path also suffer, we will surely offer our utmost assistance."

    "Generous as ever." The Fleeting Life King smiled.

    "Now that the ailment of our Reincarnation Wick has been resolved, please have a celebratory drink with me back at my base," the Destion Marshal said.

    The Fleeting Life King shook his head and replied, "The recovery of the wick is a moment for universal celebration in the Beast Path, and I''d rather not intrude on your festivities today. I wasn''t much help and nearly caused a crisis; I truly feel undeserving of such a gesture."

    "Fleeting Life King, you''re too modest," the Destion Marshal insisted. "Your journey here alone, intended to assist us, has already earned our deepest gratitude; there is no need for any guilt."

    "Indeed! We are grateful to the Fleeting Life King."

    "The Beast Path and Asura Path are close as kin; please, Fleeting Life King, do not dwell on such thoughts," the other generals added.

    The Fleeting Life King smiled. "Since that''s your sentiment, I''ll take your kind words to heart. However, I indeed have other matters to attend to. Next time, I shall join my brothers here for a long toast."

    His decision to leave was firm, and after some polite attempts to retain him, the Destion Corps did not press further.

    The Fleeting Life King then ascended his celestial pnquin and flew off into the sky!

    "Destion Marshal, could the sudden depletion of the wick be his doing?" an old man with the appearance of a youthful crane whispered to the Destion Marshal.

    She nced at him and muttered, "Let''s not talk about that here."

    "Understood." The elder nodded, looking towards Moon Fairy with a sense of admiration. "He''s truly a godsend. At the very least, he has saved the lives of 100,000 of our troops."

    "Yes¡­" the Destion Marshal deeply agreed, "Once the Reincarnation Wick goes out, the Samsara Sourcecore of the Beast Path would have fallen into violent chaos, sparking a crisis and countless casualties among the weaker demons. He has saved our world."

    "We must protect him well," the elder stated earnestly.

    "Indeed."

    This went without saying; the significance of Moon Fairy was clear to all.

    Meanwhile, the Destion Corps continued to cheer for Moon Fairy, the youth receiving such acim yet remainingposed, which even surprised the Destion Marshal.

    "Moon Fairy," she called out, approaching with the generals of the Destion Corps.

    This group of massive demons, powerful enough to suppress a 1,000,000-strong army, caused the very earth and sky to tremble with their presence.

    At that moment, each one of them toned down their aura, all smiles, careful not to startle Moon Fairy.

    "Greetings to the Destion Marshal and the generals," Moon Fairy said with impable manners, pleasing the elders further.

    "Your role in saving the Reincarnation Wick is of great significance to the Beast Path. We are willing to invest heavily in your development, to help you realize your potential and reach the peak. Will you ept this?" the Destion Marshal earnestly stated.

    "Destion Marshal, I am willing," Moon Fairy replied without hesitation, his straightforwardness evident.

    A person, when deemed sufficiently important, need not worry about resources, nor indulge in arrogance.

    "Good." The Destion Marshal and the generals of various factions were very satisfied with his direct character.

    "In that case, you will leave the ck Brute Battalion and train at my base. I will assign someone specifically to oversee your development and security," the Destion Marshal announced.

    The Destion Marshal¡¯s base was undeniably the heart and most crucial part of the military encampment.

    "Yes!" Moon Fairy nodded decisively.

    Like this, it was settled! Many demons heard this with a hint of envy. Training at the Destion Marshal¡¯s base was beyond the reach of ordinary demons.

    But while they envied him, they did not begrudge him; Moon Fairy had, in their eyes, saved them, and so deserved this reward!

    Indeed, it was a universal celebration, full of joy!

    "Moon Fairy, you have achieved great things today. Do you have any other requests? Feel free to ask," the Destion Marshal said softly.

    Her gentle demeanor made many envious, especially the generals of the Destion Corps. They had never seen her behaving this tenderly before!

    In the eyes of the Destion Corps, this Destion Marshal was an absolute and ruthless existence.

    "A request?" Moon Fairy thought for a moment, then said, "I have no requests, but I do have a small wish."

    "Speak," the Destion Marshal responded.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "My name is Moon Fairy. Newly initiated into the Six Paths of Reincarnation, I was chosen by the ck Brute Battalion and am serving as adjutant to Colonel Lin Daiyuan," Yun Xiao dered, using his body double to address the vast army, introducing not only himself but also casting Lin Daiyuan into the spotlight.</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 789: Record of a Little Foxs Rise!

    Moon Fairy turned suddenly, his gaze settling on Lin Daiyuan, who stood quietly at a corner.

    "Colonel Lin has shown me great kindness," he said. "In the Beastly Peaks, she is the one I trust the most. I wish to have her by my side at all times to protect me. Would that be possible?"

    The generals of the Destion Corps smiled in amusement at his request.

    "You do have a sense of loyalty," the Destion Marshal paused before continuing, her eyes on Lin Daiyuan. "Little Lin is talented and strong. But with how important you are, even a Fourth Baptism Realm bodyguard is not enough to ensure your safety. I shall let her stay by your side, but I will arrange for additional protection."

    "Thank you, Marshal!" Moon Fairy eximed, his eyes lingering on Lin Daiyuan with a deep intensity.

    Lin Daiyuan felt a chill run through her as their eyes met¡ªa silent acknowledgment of an unspoken grudge.

    Fortunately, the young fox had not sought immediate revenge! But why did he insist on keeping her so close?

    A sense of foreboding chilled her. She knew the look in his eyes was not to be underestimated¡ªhe was cunning and vengeful, far from the harmless facade he presented.

    Before she could respond, Moon Fairy addressed the Destion Marshal again. "However, Colonel Lin can be quite harsh with me. Could you ask her to be a bit gentler? To follow my instructions?"The request sounded almost childish, prompting the Destion Marshal to chuckle, then sternly said to Lin Daiyuan, "Did you hear that? Be gentle!"

    After that, she reassured Moon Fairy, "Don''t worry. If she so much as harms a single hair on your head, I''ll skin her myself."

    Her words were characteristic of her usual tough demeanor¡ªan unmistakable sign that she was not one to be trifled with.

    Lin Daiyuan could only nod meekly, her mind in turmoil.

    "Come here," Moon Fairymanded, assuming control over the situation.

    Seeing the formidable woman now subdued and holding back her anger was profoundly satisfying to Moon Fairy.

    True vengeance, after all, wasn''t about ending lives. It was about subjugation.

    "Follow me back to the Destion Marshal''s base."

    The Destion Marshal left themand to other generals, dering a ten-day celebration before personally escorting Moon Fairy, Lin Daiyuan, and a few close confidants back.

    Lin Daiyuan, realizing that they all remained human, reverted herself into a statuesque beauty with long, shapely legs and a visage that was both enticing and inviting¡ªfar more appealing than her bear form.

    Moon Fairy, unable to stand her bear-like appearance any longer, remarked, "By the way, don''t turn into a bear in front of me again. It''s nauseating."

    "You!" Lin Daiyuan was taken aback by his firstmand, which unexpectedly wounded her pride¡ªor rather, her bear pride.

    Yet, all she could do was grit her teeth and suppress the anger welling up inside.

    "This boy saved the world, I''ll endure... just endure..." she murmured to herself as she traversed mountains and rivers, finally arriving beyond the Ghost Cauldron.

    In a secluded valley, a ck steel pce emerged, resembling a colossal beast sprawled across thend.

    This pce was no ordinary structure but a chariot warship, driven by celestial energy, likely equipped for warfare. Its mass surpassed that of the Nine Heavens Divine Ark by a thousandfold.

    The closer one got, the more palpable the chilling divine might of this ck steel edifice.

    Ity dormant, yet its presence was oppressive, hinting at the terror it could unleash when provoked. This was the <em>base</em> of the Destion Marshal¡ªa ce not meant for the uninvited.

    Moon Fairy was assigned here for the sheer security it offered, a fortress in every sense.

    "The Marshal''s Base is divided into three sections: the Southern Hall, Northern Hall, and the War Room. The War Room is where military decisions are made and where you will practice your cultivation. My daughter and I reside in the Southern Hall, while the Northern Hall, being smaller, serves as the guest quarters. That''s where you¡¯ll stay," the Destion Marshal informed Moon Fairy.

    She arranged everything like a stern mother, meticulous in her nning.

    Moon Fairy was performing too well for her to be strict at the moment.

    "Yes, Marshal." Moon Fairy nodded.

    Everything here reminded him of Mu Dalong and Mu Xiaolong. He fondly recalled the time his true self spent living together with them, even if her old man, the Sword Warden, was living the next door over.

    Apart from the War Room, the Marshal''s Base seemed scarcely popted.

    Then the Destion Marshal personally led Moon Fairy to the Northern Hall.

    The entire base was cold, grim, and shadowy, entirely unlike the Eternal Sword Prison''s Valley of Ruins. It was filled with cold metal and steel, forged from the finest celestial ores, imparting a suffocating atmosphere.

    This matched the Destion Marshal''s austere temperament perfectly.

    "Settle in and rest for now. I have matters to attend to, but tomorrow I will take you to the War Room for cultivation," the Destion Marshal instructed.

    "Yes." Moon Fairy merely needed to nod as she arranged everything.

    "I¡¯m giving you some flying talismans; contact me if there¡¯s anything urgent."

    This gesture from the Destion Marshal left Lin Daiyuan both awed and terrified. In her eyes, the Destion Marshal was a revered figure, almost untouchable, with whom she had little contact.

    Yet here she was, giving Moon Fairy flying talismans, allowing him immediate ess to her¡ªa gesture akin to a mother''s care for her son.

    Such treatment was exceedingly high! And with high treatment came great danger.

    "Moon Moon," the Destion Marshal called out as she stood at the doorway of the Northern Hall before departing.

    "Yes, Marshal," Moon Fairy said.

    The Destion Marshal pursed her lips, her tone earnest. "I know that today your life has taken a dramatic turn, skyrocketing too swiftly. You may find your heart troubled."

    "Yes." Moon Fairy nodded, though inside he felt calm, ustomed as he was to upheaval.

    "As someone who deeply cares for you, there''s something I urge you to consider," the Destion Marshal continued, her vibrant eyes glowing with a mix of authority and beauty.

    "I''m listening," Moon Fairy responded.

    "The so-called demon talent allows you to absorb the destion faster and better than others, elerating your growth and strength. However, this talent doesn''t raise your ultimate potential. You are destined to save the world, which makes you crucial to the Beast Path. You could live worry-free without any cultivation. But as your senior, I hope you will settle your heart and strive to be truly strong, to protect yourself and hold your own in turbulent times," the Marshal exined earnestly.

    Moon Fairy took a deep breath, his reply sincere, "Thank you, Marshal. I''ll keep your words close to my heart."

    "You''re moreposed than I expected," the Destion Marshal remarked with a slight smile before turning to leave. As she walked away, her figure d in ck armor slowly vanished into the cold darkness of the Marshal''s Base.

    What Moon Fairy said was not important. What he did in the days toe would be closely observed by her.

    After she departed, the Northern Hall fellpletely silent, save for the heartbeat of the formidable beauty left behind.

    She was a bear demon of high status and voluptuous allure, unmatched in beauty when in human form. Her pride was enticing, almost begging to be conquered.

    Her almond-shaped eyes now fixed on Moon Fairy''s back. Though he was supposed to be nothing more than a toy to be yed with until she got bored, her world was turned upside down in the blink of an eye.

    Suddenly, Moon Fairy turned around. His expression remained calm, unnervingly so for Lin Daiyuan.

    With a whoosh, he appeared right before her, jumping up into the air to meet her gaze...

    The scene looked ratherical. But what followed was far from humorous.

    Moon Fairy looked at her coldly and said, "Don''t move, understand?"

    "What are you trying to¡­" Lin Daiyuan asked before she was suddenly cut off.

    <em>SMACK! </em>Moon Fairy''s hand struck her pretty face with such force that it sent her, a mighty demon of the Fourth Baptism Realm, staggering back several steps before falling to the ground!

    "You little¡ª" Lin Daiyuan clutched her face, a bright red handprint vivid against her skin, blood trickling down.

    The p ignited a volcanic fury within her, characteristic of her quick temper.

    She was on the verge of roaring back, ready to tten Moon Fairy with a p of her own!

    As she rose to her feet, Moon Fairy smiled coldly. "Try touching me, you big dumb bear. Just try."

    "You¡­ YOU!!" Lin Daiyuan recalled the flying talismans the Destion Marshal had given him just earlier, the respect the entire Destion Corps held for Moon Fairy, and his significance to the entire Beast Path...

    She struggled to suppress the rage boiling within her.

    "Are you thinking, ''Why not end it all and be done with this humiliation?''" Moon Fairy asked.

    "I never thought that!" Lin Daiyuan snapped through clenched teeth.

    "That''s because you know well that you can''t kill me. If you could have, I would have died at the Soul Refining Cauldron. And if you dare touch me now, both you and your n will suffer terribly," Moon Fairy said icily.

    "You''re truly ruthless!" Lin Daiyuan''s eyes welled up.

    "Me, ruthless? Tell me, who started this? Me or you?" Moon Fairy replied.

    Lin Daiyuan bowed her head, speechless.

    "Alright." Moon Fairy smiled, stepped forward, and gently took her hand away from her face. His gesture eased some of the tension in Lin Daiyuan''s heart.

    "I want to apologize for my earlier behavior," she began.

    <em>SMACK! </em>Moon Fairy''s hand struck her face again. He hit her exactly in the same spot as the previous p.

    "Why are you doing this?" Lin Daiyuan fought to keep her anger in check. For a woman as spirited as she, the urge to curse was almost overpowering, her voice tinged with tears.

    Moon Fairy leaned down, clutching the front of her robe, and sneered, "I''m tormenting you for fun."

    "You..."

    "Remember, don''t fight back."

    <em>SMACK! SMACK! SMACK! </em>He continued to p her across both cheeks, reddening her face even further.

    The enraged bear demon roared, all the while holding back her fury, her frustration and impotence making for a ludicrous sight.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Scared now?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "Moon Fairy!" Lin Daiyuan suppressed all her rage, knelt before him with tears streaming down her face, and cried, "I was wrong, I''m sorry! I''ll listen to everything you say from now on, please stop tormenting me! I beg you!"

    <em>THUD! </em>As she spoke, she tried to kowtow to him with her voluptuous body. But before her face could touch the ground, Moon Fairy caught her.

    "Don''t give in so quickly; it¡¯s no fun that way," he said.

    "What do you want from me?" Lin Daiyuan cried out in despair.

    Moon Fairy''s hand slowly slid from her face downwards, his voice low and haunting, "The first time we met, you used me like an object while I couldn''t move. Today, you are not allowed to move."

    He deliberately slowed his actions. Piece by piece, he stripped away her defenses, making her kneel unshielded before him.

    This process was a torment in itself.

    "No, please..."

    Her teeth clenched, eyes red and tearful, she waspletely under his control. Her pitiful pleas for mercy sounded heartbreaking. Yet, as the ordeal continued, these pleas turned into intoxicated murmurs that echoed unrestrained through the Northern Hall, lingering long after...

    The process was the same! But this time, Yun Xiao made her kneel submissively, ensuring she understood who was the dominant one in their rtionship.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 790: Not an Exhibitionist!

    Green mes covered the sky over the Marshal¡¯s Base. The walls, tiles, grounds, and iron trees of the Northern Hall all emitted a sinister green light. The mes danced rhythmically before finally subsiding.

    In the dark green halls, Moon Fairy, dressed in a wide silver robe and barefoot, stood with his eyes swirling with a ghastly gale and abyssal mes.

    Beside him, a strikingly beautiful woman, draped in thick ck armor and armed to the teeth, curled up in a corner, her eyes zing with anger.

    Yet, the hint of pleasure and her slightly trembling fingers and legs betrayed her.

    ¡°Give me ten Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Sources,¡± Moon Fairy demanded calmly, extending his hand.

    ¡°Why should I?¡± Lin Daiyuan¡¯s voice trembled slightly, sticky with fear.

    ¡°Give,¡± Moon Fairy said softly, yet the dominance and ferocity in his eyes flickered with a dangerous glint.

    The ck Brute Bear never feared a demon fox, but this one was too ferocious...

    Imagine, in a forest, a small white fox pinning down arge ck bear and beating it, what a spectacr scene.As a Colonel in the Fourth Baptism Realm, Sealing Heaven-grade Cmity Sources were useless to Lin Daiyuan. However, the 1,000 soldiers in her ck Brute Battalion needed them, and she surely had them!

    A fox and a bear locked eyes, both fierce!

    The brutality of the fox just moments ago had cast a shadow over Lin Daiyuan¡¯s heart. Her power was explosive, enough to tear him apart! Yet, why was she forced to retreat step by step, manipted and humiliated?

    That was because authority and influence mattered!

    Moon Fairy¡¯s presence overwhelmed her.

    ¡°Ten¡­¡±

    Lin Daiyuan did not know why Moon Fairy wanted ten Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Sources.

    She bowed her head, counting out ten from her Bag of Holding and threw them to the ground!

    This act of throwing was perhaps thest of her dignity¡­

    After tossing away the Cmity Sources, unable to contain her frustration, she let out a low growl. She suddenly rose and furiously dered to Moon Fairy, ¡°Fortune waxes and wanes, don¡¯t celebrate too early. Next time I rise, I¡¯ll grind you to dust!¡±

    With that, she swung her hips and strode away, so furious her nostrils red, pounding her chest and the walls as she went, truly exploding with rage.

    ¡°She''s still a beast, no matter how enlightened. Nature cannot be altered,¡± Moon Fairy remarked, watching her retreating figure.

    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re just a stinky fox yourself,¡± the Nian chuckled.

    ¡°I''m human,¡± Moon Fairy replied.

    ¡°Fox or human, or whatever else, can you even keep it straight? Don¡¯t get so lost in ying with your body double that you forget what you really are,¡± the Yaksha Ancestor suddenly interjected somberly.

    "You worry too much," Moon Fairy said.

    "It''s for your own good," the Yaksha Ancestor snorted. "No matter what, I can help you. Your fighting methods are too monotonous; I have plenty of divine techniques."

    "You, willingly help me? What''s the catch?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "Simple," the Yaksha Ancestor paused, then added somberly, "Next time you''re enjoying yourself, don''t blindfold me."

    The Nian coughed and said, "I second that."

    "How rare, you two actually share amon interest," Moon Fairy chuckled.

    They fell silent, clearly embarrassed to findmon ground.

    "Nevertheless, I refuse," Moon Fairy dered.

    "Why?" the Yaksha Ancestor asked, puzzled.

    "I''m not an exhibitionist, and I don''t enjoy an audience," Moon Fairy replied.

    "Pah! You seem perverted enough to me," the Nian scoffed.

    Moon Fairy, uninterested in their banter, took the ten Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Sources and muttered, "I''m just borrowing these, I''ll return them to Old Kapok in a couple of days, no broken promises."

    He was in a good mood. After getting a bit of revenge on Lin Daiyuan for trying to kill him, he felt somewhat better. But the rage from being turned into a cloud of blood and flesh by Yanfu Tan still simmered in his chest.

    "It won''t be long before I make my way to the Asura Path."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Turning back, Moon Fairy noticed that the grand doors of the Northern Hall were still open. He''d been a little too eager to get his revenge. And he''d just been talking about not being an exhibitionist a moment ago¡­

    "Luckily, no one''s around." With a resigned smile, Moon Fairy approached the massive steel doors. As he reached to close them, he was startled by the appearance of arge figure!

    "Marshal!"

    Standing just outside the door was a woman d in ck scale armor, her long rainbow colored hair cascading down, her dignified face bearing a strangely amused smile. Those rainbow colored eyes unnerved Moon Fairy.

    "Why are you here¡­" Moon Fairy asked, his scalp tingling.

    The Destion Marshal spoke calmly, "When I left earlier, it urred to me that the me God happens to be at the military base today, so I thought I''d take you to meet him now."

    <em>Ah, crap¡­ </em>Moon Fairy''s face flushed red. He''d been toying with Lin Daiyuan for some time, and the implication from the Destion Marshal was that she hadn¡¯t gone far¡­

    That meant she had been standing right there for quite a while. Only a wall separated the two of them, and the door remained open!

    ¡°I... um...¡± Yun Xiao wished he could find a crack to crawl into. "There goes the good boy image I had just built."

    Facing the Destion Marshal¡¯s multi-colored gaze again, he felt a guilt as if illuminated by a divine light, especially with her faint smile, its meaning indecipherable.

    "Shall we go?" the Destion Marshal suddenly asked.

    "Yes!" Moon Fairy nodded quickly, eager to agree. "Yes, we can!"

    "Follow me."

    The Destion Marshal turned and disappeared into the distance.

    Moon Fairy hurried after her. True to her role as amander, she had glimpsed another side of Moon Fairy but spoke not a word of it.

    So, Yun Xiao¡¯s embarrassment gradually subsided. Once he caught up, his demeanor grew serious as he asked, "Marshal, may I know who the me God is?"

    "The strategist of the Destion Corps. He''s also responsible for training the military¡¯s talents. He is a respected elder and was also my mentor," the Destion Marshal exined.

    "Understood." Moon Fairy nodded.

    "Currently, there are about 100 young talents under his tutge. You may simply call him teacher," the Destion Marshal added.

    "Understood!"

    Navigating through the dark corridors of the Marshal¡¯s Base, they approached a steel fortress-like structure, clearly the real hub of the Destion Corps.

    "Since you saved the Reincarnation Wick, all of the me God''s students are out celebrating today, leaving only the me God here. It¡¯s quite quiet," the Destion Marshal said.

    As she spoke, a ck semi-spherical building appeared ahead. The Destion Marshal pushed open the door!

    Moon Fairy expected darkness inside, but to his surprise, the interior was bustling and brightly lit, radiating intense heat.

    Following her inside, he saw that this <em>training camp</em> was vast enough to allow 1,000 demons to run amok in their true forms.

    At the far end of his vision, he could distinctly see a <em>person</em>! It was a figure in a ck robe!

    Moon Fairy couldn¡¯t discern his age, for instead of a human head, his neck bore a zing me, within which one could faintly discern eyes, ears, a mouth, and a nose.

    "He seems to be a resentment demon, simr to the Burning Saint from the Demon Continent."

    Resentment demons were a rare sight within the Beast Path.

    "He''s strong..." Moon Fairy felt it¡ªthe resentment demon known as the me God harbored a fierce grudge. His demonic power was endless, sweeping across the entire training camp and turning the building into a furnace. Anyone who entered would start sweating.

    "Being the Destion Marshal¡¯s mentor, he naturallymands high status, vast experience, and great strength."

    As to who was stronger, the me God or the Destion Marshal, Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t tell.

    "Teacher, this is Moon Fairy."

    The Destion Marshal clearly held him in high regard.

    "I pay my respects, Teacher," Moon Fairy followed.

    The me God was reading a book. Hearing this, he looked up at Moon Fairy. Unlike others, he wasn¡¯t overly moved or emotional; his <em>expression</em> seemed rather t as he said, "Alright, leave him here, I''ll take care of him."

    "Thank you for your trouble." The Destion Marshal smiled wryly, then whispered to Moon Fairy, "That''s just his way."

    "Understood." Moon Fairy nodded. He knew that not everyone would treat him as the Destion Marshal did, just because he could save the Reincarnation Wick.

    In any world, what truly earned respect was sheerbat power!

    "Let me give you a tour." The Destion Marshal personally took Moon Fairy around the training camp, showing him the arrangements. The great hall was used for regr training and martialbat, and there were many areas in the back said to hold various resources.

    "Is there any destion?" Moon Fairy asked.

    The Destion Marshal pointed deep within the training camp. "Over there is the Great Barren Well that nurtures the destion of our Destion Corps. It¡¯s divided into fouryers, containing destion from the Defying Heaven to the strongest Burying Heaven grade. You can speak to the me God whenever you have a need. Currently, you have the highest authority in the corps, even above my daughter."

    "Thank you, Marshal, for your generous favor!" Moon Fairy said.

    The fact that he held influence above her daughter clearly showed the high regard he was held in.

    "May I visit the Great Barren Well now?" Moon Fairy asked.

    The Destion Marshal looked towards the me God.

    The me God continued reading his book but tossed a fire token to Moon Fairy.

    Catching the token, Moon Fairy felt its scorching heat.

    "With this token, you can enter the first two upperyers of the Great Barren Well and try to absorb and refine Defying Heaven and Sealing Heaven grade destion there. The bottom twoyers of the well are still too dangerous for you. So, don''t venture there yet," the Destion Marshal instructed.

    That meant to ess the loweryers, Moon Fairy would need a different token. This token was his pass.

    "The destion within the military must be greater and more potent than the amount in the Soul Refining Cauldron!" Moon Fairy thought to himself.

    Destion and Cmity Sources were of utmost importance to him.

    "Follow me."

    The Destion Marshal was indeed meticulous. At Moon Fairy¡¯s request, she promptly led him to the Great Barren Well.

    The so-called Great Barren Well looked like an abyss that had appeared out of nowhere, or the mouth of an underground volcano!

    This opening was sealed by a celestial formation, masking its violent and scorching nature from the rest of the training camp.

    But looking through the formation, one could see a world like a raging furnace below. There, destion of various elements¡ªwind, fire, water, earth, and thunder¡ªroared and rampaged like mighty beasts!

    And this was just the topyer containing the Defying Heaven grade destion!

    "The destion in the Soul Refining Cauldron is merely an oil, monotonous in nature, but the Great Barren Well offers much more variety."

    This indicated that while the Soul Refining Cauldron was sufficient for temporary needs, forprehensive development, the Great Barren Well was essential.

    "If I hadn''t saved the Reincarnation Wick, how could I have so easilye here to enjoy the privileges reserved for the geniuses of the Destion Corps?" Moon Fairy mused.

    He might have taken many risks since arriving in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, but they had all paid off so far!

    Holding the fire token, Moon Fairy asked the Destion Marshal, "May I go down now?"

    "Of course, you can start your training here from today; you can do whatever you wish," the Destion Marshal replied.

    "Thank you for your guidance, Marshal."

    With that, Moon Fairy took out the fire token and leaped into the bottomless furnace.

    The fire token also served as the key through the celestial formation; without it, any attempt to force entry would likely result in being reduced to ashes by the formation.

    After he jumped into the Great Barren Well, the Destion Marshal turned and approached the me God.

    "How do you feel about him?" the me God asked, looking down at his book illuminated by the firelight, which detailed various Cmity Sources.

    "I thought he was quite tame, but I''ve realized he''s not. He has a strong, wild side and desires. That''s actually a good thing. Given his importance¡­ if he were just a timid fox, who wouldn''t want to turn him into a delicacy?" the Destion Marshal said.

    "Whether he bes a hero or a delicacy, it''s up to him," the me God remarked.

    The Destion Marshal pursed her lips, a slight frown creasing her brows. "But for some reason, I don''t feel like the word <em>hero</em> quite fits him."

    "What might he be, then?" the me God asked.

    "Time will tell. At least having him here is very good news¡­" the Destion Marshal mused deeply.

    "Indeed!" The me God nodded and closed his book.

    As he stood up, his hunched figure and aging appearance became apparent.

    "Let''s see how this young one absorbs the destion," he said, looking towards where Moon Fairy had gone.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "I''m not an exhibitionist, and I don''t enjoy an audience," Moon Fairy replied.</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 791: Three Lives Samsara Calamity Source!

    The Destion Martial and me God arrived at the edge of the Great Barren Well.

    "Hmm? He''s not here?" The Destion Marshal furrowed her brow.

    "He''s gone to the secondyer," the me God replied, his hand stroking his fiery beard.

    The firstyer containing Defying Heaven grade destion was just within sight, but the secondyer remained shrouded from sight.

    "He''s not in the Third Baptism Realm, but he dove straight into the Heaven Sealingyer? He''s got guts."

    Thinking back to Moon Fairy''s earlier <em>revenge</em> on Lin Daiyuan, a wry smile slipped out from the corner of the Destion Marshal''s mouth. "I thought he was well-behaved. But it seems like we''ve brought in quite the troublemaker."

    It was quite the misjudgement!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Within the Sealing Heavenyer of the Great Barren Well, Moon Fairy wasn''t in any rush to absorb any destion. In fact, he had quite a bit still stored up in the Immortal Asylum.After entering the First Baptism Realm, he''d broken through from the Early stage to the Establishment stage without a chance to catch his breath.

    He was just here for a look!

    "They say it''s just a well, but in truth, it''s a volcano of destion beneath the earth! Magnificent!"

    Before Moon Fairy, various attributes of destion, such as fire, frost, ice, thunder, water, and wind, roared and shed. No non-demon would dare to enter here!

    To others, this ce was a veritable hell.

    "I won''t becking in destion anytime soon; I''ll consolidate my cultivation first, then cross another tribtion before entering again."

    He had no ns of stealing any destion; firstly because it wasn''t necessary; and secondly because there was still plenty of destion oil unused within the Immortal Asylum.

    Having experienced the Heaven Sealingyer firsthand, Moon Fairy was about to leave. But then, he suddenly heard a noise.

    "Hmm?" The Nian had lost its nose, yet its sense of smell remained, saying, "That direction!"

    "What are you so eager for?" the Yaksha Ancestor scoffed at the Nian.

    "None of your business."

    "You pathetic mutt, currying favor with him just to suppress me? Indeed, a mutt is a mutt, groveling as usual, always seeking to please its master," the Yaksha Ancestor sneered.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Fuck you, monkey butt!" the Nian retorted.

    As they bickered, Moon Fairy moved through the vast tempest of destion.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Ahead, fierce mes roared!

    From all directions came five types of deste fire, converging into a swirling five-colored sea that encircled the scene!

    At the heart of this fiery maelstrom, a beast struggled!

    The beast, entangled with the colorful inferno, clearly possessed formidable strength and a deep affinity with the destion, as evidenced by the tumult around it.

    Its roars echoed, pained and persistent! From its state and cries, it was clear the beast suffered greatly, wrestling with the relentless assault.

    The five-colored mes surged into its body, scorching it entirely, visibly spiraling out of control.

    Being a demon, Moon Fairy understood; the beast was likely undergoing a perilous absorption of destion, its physical form nearly overwhelmed!

    Without hesitation or knowledge of the beast''s identity, he approached.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Channeling the Will of Divine Destion, his body became like a vortex, drawing the chaotic tempest of mes explosively toward him.

    The spectacle mirrored a giant whale drawing in water!

    Before long, the structure of the five-colored maelstrom unraveled under Moon Fairy''s suction power, copsing and dispersing!

    And so, the beast engulfed by the inferno was liberated, its cries abruptly ceasing.

    The deste mes dispersed!

    "Who are you?"

    Suddenly, a sweet, soft voice chimed from not far away.

    Moon Fairy calmed himself and looked toward the source. There, amidst the fading glow, a dazzling five-colored qilin tilted its head, its round eyes wide with curiosity, staring at him.

    Its head tilted left, then right, much like a colorful little cat, undeniably adorable.

    "A five-colored qilin?" Moon Fairy instantly recognized her identity.

    "You must be the Marshal''s daughter. I''m Moon Fairy. I just arrived at the Marshal''s Base today."

    "Moon Fairy!" The five-colored qilin''s eyes lit up at the name, and she bounded over excitedly, circling him like a yful pup, eximing, "I heard about it, you saved the Reincarnation Wick! I heard you wereing to the Marshal''s Base and was just about toe find you to y!"

    Her spirited demeanor was indeed charming.

    "Such cute fox ears!"

    Unexpectedly, she found Moon Fairy adorable too, even daring to lick his ear with her tongue.

    "Can I call you Moon Bro?" the little qilin asked, tongue lolling out, her face full of hope.

    "Of course, and what should I call you?" Moon Fairy inquired.

    "My nickname is Qiqi, but my full name is Qi Qiqi. You can call me Sweetie Qiqi!" the little qilin said with a squinting smile.

    "Qiqi..." Moon Fairy decided to just go with the safest option. He didn''t want the Destion Marshal to think he was a scoundrel preying on her daughter. "By the way, everyone''s off celebrating, howe you''re alone here?"

    Qi Qiqi looked down, her voice tinged with woe, "I stayed to meet you."

    "What happened just now? Why didn''t you call for help?" he asked.

    He figured there must be a way to summon aid in the training camp.

    Qi Qiqi replied meekly, "I wanted to break through in one go, to surprise my mom. So, I tried to hold on. But it became too much, and just as I was about to use the Fire Token to call Grandpa me, I identally dropped it! Then things really got out of hand!"

    "..." Moon Fairy stared at her, speechless. He thought a girl raised in a military base would be a lot less clumsy!

    "Luckily you came, Moon Bro, you saved my life! Oh, I''m so moved!" The little qilin nuzzled up close, resting her head against Moon Fairy''s chest, affectionately rubbing against him...

    "It''s no big deal, really," Moon Fairy replied, trying to keep her at arm''s length. Though now a beast, she was also a demon, capable of shape-shifting!

    "Let''s head out, your mother''s waiting outside," he suggested.

    "Moon bro..." Qi Qiqi cooed, "Can you promise me one thing?"

    "Go ahead."

    "Don''t tell my mother or Grandpa me about what just happened, just say I lost the Fire Token," she pleaded pitifully. Clearly, she feared losing face. It was evident, despite her carelessness, she still wanted to prove herself.

    "No problem." Moon Fairy nodded.

    "That''s great!" Qi Qiqi leaped up joyfully. "This will be our little secret," she winked, her eyes shimmering in five colors.

    "Mhmm¡­"

    With that agreement, the two ascended from the Sealing Heavenyer, and with a loud boom, emerged together from the Great Barren Well.

    "Mom, mom, mooom~!"

    The little qilin sprang from the well towards the Destion Marshal.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>At this moment, amidst shes of five-colored light, the qilin transformed into a young girl with hair of five hues.

    She appeared about 14 years old, and just from her delicate silhouette, one could imagine her blossoming beauty¡ªpure and radiant, the epitome of youthful grace.

    "Mom, I''ve made friends with Moon Bro," the girl said after embracing her mother and turning around.

    Indeed, she resembled the Destion Marshal but was younger, sunnier, and charmingly cute, with soft, glowing skin and a lithe, robust figure, her bright five-colored eyes sparkling.

    Most importantly, her smile was beautiful¡ªa smile that could make anyone return it without thinking, irresistibly warm.

    "Uh, we just happened to meet," Moon Fairy said.

    "Oh?" The Destion Marshal nced at Moon Fairy, perhaps recalling what he had done to Lin Daiyuan, then back at her innocent daughter¡­

    A sudden tightness gripped her heart, and she shot Moon Fairy a warning look.

    He immediately took the hint, nodding slightly, and choosing silence.

    Seeing the young man''s wise reaction, the Destion Marshal then smiled at Qi Qiqi, "That''s wonderful, congrattions on making a new friend."

    "Yeah, I like Moon Bro a lot!"

    Though Qi Qiqi was in human form, she was still a child at heart, her expressions devoid of any hidden meaning.

    Fortunately, she didn''t rush to hug him again; that might have been too hard to exin.

    "Teacher, I''m entrusting these two children to you," the Destion Marshal said.

    The me God maintained his cool indifference. "Leave them here, I''ll take care of them."

    Watching these young lives, the Destion Marshal was filled with profound emotions.

    "Marshal." Just then, a white-haired elder entered, speaking softly, "The King is here, waiting for you in the Southern Hall."

    Upon hearing this, the Destion Marshal''s fleeting smile vanished, her face seeming to plunge into icy depths. Her gaze was cold, struggling... much like Lin Daiyuan''s had been moments before.

    "Dad''s here? I want to go too!" Qi Qiqi said eagerly upon hearing the news.

    "You are not going!" the Destion Marshal barked, startling the young girl.

    "Aw¡­ I''m not allowed to see him again..." Qi Qiqi pouted.

    The Destion Marshal ignored her and turned to leave, her demeanor more that of a warrior heading into battle than a wife meeting her husband.

    "So annoying!" Qi Qiqi sat on the ground, her mood visibly soured.

    "If you two have nothing else to do, read this book," said the me God as he tossed them a thick tome.

    Moon Fairy recognized it as the volume on various Cmity Sources.

    This was the fourth and final volume, detailing the rarest and most violent of all Cmity Sources, those that could <em>bury the heavens</em> themselves.

    "Qiqi, shall we read it together?" Moon Fairy suggested. He couldn''t talk about her parents'' affairs, but he could help her shift her mood.

    "Okay, Moon Bro!" Qi Qiqi''s inherently joyful nature quickly shone through, and she soon forgot the earlier upset. Together with Moon Fairy, they sat like two innocent kids, absorbed in the book.

    "Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources, I wonder when I''ll get to use one! I really want it..." Qi Qiqi pouted.

    Moon Fairy nced at her profile, her longshes, colorful eyes, and the innocence within them... She seemed like a treasure of the world, pure and pristine.

    "No need to rush, you''re still young," Moon Fairy said.

    "Aren''t you young too?" Qi Qiqi huffed, then turned to the first page of the tome, reading with relish. "Though we can''t use it yet, it''s essential to understand it beforehand. Otherwise, choosing the wrong Cmity Source could spell big trouble. At best, all our efforts would be wasted; at worst, it could cost us our lives!"

    Moon Fairyughed. "Who would be so foolish as to choose the wrong Cmity Source?"

    "There are plenty!"

    Qi Qiqi pointed at the Cmity Source on the page. "See this one? Looks ordinary, right? in and unremarkable, but it''s actually an Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source, meant only for those daring enough to try and be a Boundless Immortal. It''s called the Three Lives Samsara. Some idiots have failed to recognize its value and used it as if it were a Heaven Sealing grade, only to end up exploding into dust once they consume it."

    "Haha, how could someone be so stu..." Moon Fairy chuckled, then focused on the illustration of the Cmity Source. Then, his face immediately paled. "Huh¡­?"

    "Moon Bro, what''s wrong?" Qi Qiqi asked curiously.

    "N-no, no, nonono!!" Moon Fairy rubbed his eyes, staring intensely at the illustration.

    "What''s the matter? I didn¡¯t call you an idiot¡­" Qi Qiqi bit her lip.

    "AHH, CRAP!" Moon Fairy suddenly stood up. "Isn''t that the thing I took from the Diva as a service fee!?"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Far away in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, within the Carfree Pce, a young man in white was digging at his mouth, yelling to the devil girl beside him, "Quick, help me dig it out, save me¡­!"

 Chapter 792: Life is But a Dream, Past Present and Future All Flowing in a Stream

    Behind the Harmony Divine Pce In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, under the shadow of the Thousand Snow Moon Peak, the Carefree Pce stood proudly.

    Amid a vast expanse of snow, the turmoil within the young man in white was akin to a stormy sea unleashed.

    At his call, Feng Yao, startled, rushed to his side. Her pretty face etched with urgency, she eximed, ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say everything was good? What''s wrong?¡±

    No sooner had her words fallen than a trio of concentric rings of tribtion power burst forth from Yun Xiao, sending her flying.

    ¡°It¡¯s toote¡­ pray for me like your own life depends on it¡­!¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s solemn voice echoed in her ears.

    His grave readiness was something Feng Yao had scarcely seen before.

    ¡°Pray for you? One Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source, and you''re this frightened, coward,¡± Feng Yaonded agilely, scoffing dismissively.

    However, was it actually only Sealing Heaven grade?

    Yun Xiao knew the thing wasn''t Defying Heaven grade, but he figured it couldn''t be higher than Sealing Heaven grade.Furthermore, his body double Moon Fairy had just seeded breaking through to the First Baptism Realm with a Lower Heaven Sealing grade Cmity Source. So, what did his true self have to fear?

    However, Yun Xiao hadn''t anticipated that this in-looking Cmity Source was actually a wolf in sheep''s clothing. It seemed ordinary, yet it was Upper Burying Heaven grade!

    This was one of the highest grade Cmity Sources in the whole of the Samsara Gxy!

    Yet, here he was trying to use it to condense his Corona for his first baptism of the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms?

    Until recently, no one had even seeded at this in the Heaven Sealing grade!

    If a Lower Heaven Sealing grade was over a 100 in difficulty, then this Upper Burying Heaven grade was at least 1,000,000!

    While others tackled a difficulty of 10, Yun Xiao had just swallowed a 1,000,000 difficulty Cmity Source into his body.

    The moment it entered, he felt an emptiness unlike any other.

    ¡°What now?¡± he asked Blue Star and Red Moon.

    Red Moon paused, then said to Blue Star, ¡°Bluey, let¡¯s split the remaining treasures between us.¡±

    The little shits were divvying up his possessions!

    Before Yun Xiao, everything turned dark. With things this far gone, he had no other choice but to tough it out and swallow what he had earned himself!

    At that moment, his world stripped away the sprawling snow mountains and even Feng Yao, leaving only himself and the Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source within his gut.

    The Cmity Source was momentarily serene.

    Inside Yun Xiao, it divided into three parts, each morphing into a silhouette of himself, but as he appeared in his mortal guise as an Emperor¡ªutterly ordinary at first nce.

    But then, they changed. The figure on the far left slowly transformed, its body wreathed in clouds and mist, ethereal and indistinct.

    Yun Xiao knew this to be the likeness of the Creator Immortal.

    The middle figure remained unchanged.

    The figure on the right, however, shifted form, bing formless, eventually manifesting as a shadow of pure nothingness.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "The Three Lives Samsara Cmity Source, sensing the past, present, and future lives of a cultivator, bringing three lives into a cmity to transcend this life''s disasters..."

    This was a three-fold tribtion!

    In the Samsara Gxy, where reincarnators were asmon as dust, many knew their past lives and could glimpse their future lives through the lens of karma.

    Though their appearances might vary, their essence remained the same.

    At this moment, it seemed the Three Lives Samsara Cmity Source also reflected Yun Xiao''s past, present, and future lives.

    "Was I truly the Creator Immortal in a past life? And my future, is it still undetermined, or just a void of confusion?" Yun Xiao shuddered.

    The mysteriousness of fate was vividly personified in these three figures.

    He couldn''t afford to ponder much longer, as these figures weren''t just harbingers of destiny but also a devastating tribtion blocking his path to higher ascension.

    "Disaster arises in this life, life and death are but a dream." Moon Fairy was perusing the information about the Three Lives Samsara Cmity back in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, his own spirit shaken in synchrony.

    The cmity of his present life, the most immediate and swiftly approaching.

    "I will hold on." Yun Xiao¡¯s resolve surged, his courage not faltering.

    Yet just then, as the Moon Fairy turned the page, he read, "The Three Lives Samsara Cmity is among the top ten deadliest known Cmity Sources, typically faced by those attempting to break through the barrier of a Boundless Immortal."

    With a dejected sigh, Yun Xiao found himself wishing he hadn''t turned the page at all.

    His spirit faltered, silenced by the grim prospects revealed. He cursed himself for not waiting a bit longer before ingesting the Cmity Source!

    Fate yed its cruel hand yet again.

    Yun Xiao had already spent quite a bit of time watching the snow with Feng Yao. Yet, Moon Fairy''s discovery had stille a step toote. Such were the whims of destiny, shaping events beyond his control.

    Now was not the time for reflection.

    The figure of his mortal guise as an Emperor, representing his present life''s cmity, stirred slightly. It appeared utterly ordinary,cking any earth-shattering destructive power, yet Yun Xiao felt its lethal intent.

    In an instant, it materialized inside his Nine Suns Dantian.

    Within his Dantian, the core of his celestial power was his Worldly Dao Heart and spinning tinum Primordial Void Sacred Wheel, with the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit seated above, mirroring the figure of his present cmity.

    His spirit and the present cmity existed in different dimensions; neither could confine the other.

    The figure drifted towards his Worldly Dao Heart!

    With a low roar, Yun Xiao summoned his Primordial Void Celestial Power into a sword, thrusting it towards the Present Cmity.

    Unexpectedly, although the sword struck its target, the Present Cmity merged into the sword, bringing with it an indescribable force that instantaneously spread through all his celestial power and then seeped into his Worldly Dao Heart.

    "Gaaagh!" Yun Xiao''s eyes widened, feeling as if an arrow had pierced his heart. His world seemed to dissolve like a bubble! "Life is but a dream, and the present is merely a bubble. What you care for, what you cling to, on the path of the dao, all is nothing..."

    His pure white Worldly Dao Heart, like a bubble filled with emptiness, seemed to float forlornly in the air. The Present Cmity was but a gentle breeze that brushed against this bubble.

    <em>POP! </em>The bubble burst, and his Worldly Dao Heart dissolved into mere droplets, evaporating under the scorching sun.

    Yun Xiao intended to persevere! But the terrifying nature of the Present Cmity taught him a harsh truth¡ªthat his Worldly Dao Heart, transcending the Creator Immortal yet clinging to its own essence, was still far from stable enough.

    One touch and it shattered. How could he possibly endure?

    At the moment his Worldly Dao Heart shattered, the Primordial Void Celestial Power within his Dantian spiraled out of control, igniting like a thunderp, exploding like a Celestial Sourcecore set aze.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Within the Nine Suns Dantian, a st potent enough to pulverize his body into dust was brewing!

    It seemed inevitable that a smear of blood and dust would mark the snowy ground.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao was painfully aware that his journey as an Immortal, all his gains, were vested in that Worldly Dao Heart.

    Without it, everything was lost.

    The world around him turned eerily silent and empty, as if he sat in a boundless room without walls, unable to hear, see, or smell anything, feeling utterly hollow inside.

    Even the breath of rebirth seemed beyond his grasp.

    "Is this the end?"

    To imagine a lifetime''s journey through the heavens disappearing over a <em>service fee </em>he''d collected for saving a life seemed absurd. However, wasn''t reality often so outrageously cruel?

    "In just a few months, I''ve loved, hated, and killed, relentlessly crushed everything, rebuilt everything, and cherished everything. It feltplete, almost fair..."

    Yet why did his heart still ache so painfully? It was torturous, like stepping out the door, unsure whether it had been locked behind him. It was so, so intolerably distressing.

    In that emptiness, too many things flooded his mind at once.

    "Senior Sister Zhao, my child...!" Yun Xiao''s body trembled, his face pale as if he had just surfaced from drowning, gasping for air!

    Where had Zhao Xuanran gone? She was carrying his child!

    He had still yet to figure out the mystery behind the eight other Primordial Coffins. The Dao Source of the Six Paths of Reincarnation was also still unimed!

    Even his dealings with Divine Dawn were unclear.

    If he died, what about Moon Fairy and Feng Yao? Their fates too would end¡­ There was so much left undone! So much regret!

    In just a few short months since his rebirth, Yun Xiao had already shouldered immense responsibilities.

    "The Six Ancestral Gods, chaos in the realms, a heaven devoid of righteousness¡ªwait for me to rebuild the Creator Immortal, to recreate the universe!"

    He didn''t know where he was.

    In a sh of lightning, a hysterical roar tore through the emptiness, a furious deration of his determination.

    "I will seize all the treasures of the world and reach the summit of the Immortal path!

    "I will exterminate those without virtue or righteousness, ughter those who have wronged or insulted me!

    "I will pursue my path, even if myriad cmities befall me, unwavering unto death, obsessing over a lifetime, all for one answer!

    "I will, with my beloved, discuss the eternal dao, remain steadfast, roam the ends of the earth, and not waste this life¡­"

    These thoughts and cries echoed and reverberated in the void.

    From a faint voice to a final roar that shook the heavens and the firmament!

    This was the thought of a mortal, a cry of rage that had never faded, the fury of being falsely used and murdered by the hypocritical, a resolve for fairness and justice!

    A mighty righteous energy soared to the highest heavens!

    "With a lifetime of creation, a destiny spanning ages, how could your single cmity disturb the peace of my rebirth!"

    A strand of thought in this void rang like an eternal bell!

    That burst of rage swept across endless worlds, darkening the skies!

    Spread out across the emptiness, Yun Xiao''s heart had evaporated into droplets. Yet, through sheer willpower, he gathered the droplets back into the white Worldly Dao Heart!

    At that moment, that Worldly Dao Heart burst forth with endless brilliance, recing the light of the world, bing a primordial sun in its own right!

    Was this life merely a bubble, or a dazzling light in the eyes of beings of the dao?

    Yun Xiao had his answer, in his heart and his dao!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Inside his Dantian, the Worldly Dao Heart had never truly vanished; it had merely perished momentarily, losing its mortal soul.

    However, as it regained its brilliance in the battle of willpower, it shone brighter, more resolute, and more substantial than ever before. It became the most steadfast fixation in Yun Xiao, more significant than his spirit, more than the Primordial Void, more than everything!

    The Worldly Dao Heart was the true core of Yun Xiao''s existence, the strongest part of him, the indestructible essence of his greed, wrath, and foolishness.

    Of course, ording to Blue Star and Red Moon, one more word had to be added to that¡ªlust!

    Just now, in that desperate moment, the four lines he roared with the fiercest thoughts of his heart perfectly matched these four traits.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 793: Boundless Corona!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao''s Worldly Dao Heart shone brilliantly, and his present life''s cmity vanished without a trace.

    His Primordial Void Celestial Power, which was on the verge of exploding out of his Dantian, quickly stabilized. In fact, it started revolving even more smoothly around his Worldly Dao Heart, traces of tribtion power gradually integrating with it.

    "Woah! Did our bro really survive the Present Life Cmity!?" Red Moon eximed in surprise.

    "Just as we expected, his greed, wrath, foolishness, and lust really saved his neck!" Blue Star chuckled.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "I bet the fourth one was 50% of the reason he pulled through!!" Red Moon said, clicking his tongue.

    "Tsk, tsk, tsk¡­ Too conservative! More like 80%...!" Blue Star mocked.

    "You little shits! Figure out a way to help me instead of cracking jokes at my expense!" Yun Xiao cursed before taking a deep breath.

    Yun Xiao wasn''t rxed at all, nor was he rejoicing. He knew he''d only survived the Present Life Cmity by the skin of his teeth. And he still had the Past and Future Life Cmitying up!

    "Bluey, trante for me! What did he actually mean by the four things he shouted!" Red Moon cackled, ignoring Yun Xiao."No problem, Reddy! Lemme dumb it down for you!" Blue Star replied. Then, he mimicked Yun Xiao''s voice and said, "I want treasure! I have a bad temper! I love risking my life! And I want women!"

    "Hahaha! You really do know our bro!" Red Moonughed heartily.

    "Screw the both of you! You know I still have to face two more cmities, right?" Yun Xiao was fuming. How could the two of them be so nonchnt in a situation like this!?

    "Rx. Your past life is your origin, and your future life is still up in the air. After passing the Present Life Cmity, you''re basically in the clear!" Blue Star assured, easing some of Yun Xiao''s tension.

    "Really?" Yun Xiao asked. It was no wonder that feeling of impending dread had disappeared! He had indeed survived, hadn''t he?

    That moment really did feel like a lifetime¡­

    He''d essentially pulled himself out of the drowning waters and arrived on the other shore. Taking a deep breath, he emptied his mind and looked up at the heavens.

    Yun Xiao''s whole body rxed. Yet the Worldly Dao Heart burned like the fiercest sun on the path of cultivation, guiding his undying journey ahead.

    As long as it existed, it would mean that he was not done living, and he would continue experiencing all that life had to offer!

    "Past life, and future life..."

    Sure enough, Blue Star was right. The following cmities posed no danger to Yun Xiao.

    The Past Life Cmity manifested as the shadow of the Creator Immortal. As it entered his Nine Suns Dantian, it nced at his Worldly Dao Heart. Then, it immediately melted away and integrated into his celestial power.

    "Hmm?"

    Yun Xiao''s Primordial Void spun, sparking a storm of power that surged out of his body.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A wondrous, colorful vortex appeared before his eyes!

    His Primordial Void seemed to be the key to this colorful vortex.

    "Go take a look!" Blue Star said with profound meaning.

    "Where does it lead to?" Yun Xiao asked as he rose to his feet and stepped into the vortex without hesitation.

    "The gate to the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity," Blue Star replied.

    Yun Xiao crossed through the colorful vortex, and his true form emerged in another world!

    "Wow..."

    He thought he''d seen it all, but he still couldn''t help but exim in awe at the sight before him.

    Aheady an infinite, magnificent world. It was unbelievably colorful, brilliant, endlessly radiant, and bizarre...

    It was like an ocean! Yet, instead of water, this boundless ocean was made up of pearls of different colors.

    Each pearl shimmered with a crystal-clear light. And perhaps because they were so far away, they seemed immenselyrge!

    "What a beautiful world, you say this is the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity? The birthce of all the Cmity Sources?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Blue Star and Red Moon peeked out from his embrace.

    "Yes," Blue Star nodded.

    "Those countless star-like pearls are each a Cmity Source, truly too many to count, far more than 1,000,000,000..." Yun Xiao marveled.

    "Before you keep gawking, let''s set one thing straight. This ce isn''t pretty at all! It''s downright disgusting!" Red Moon bellowed, face full of disdain.

    "Why''s that?" Yun Xiao asked, puzzled.

    "Because this is your old spittoon!" Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    "Back when you were bored and killing time, you''d spit here, utterly revolting!" Red Moon covered his nostrils.

    Yun Xiao was stunned. The Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity, the birthce of all Cmity Sources, was just the spit of the Creator Immortal?

    It was a baffling revtion. After all, countless cultivators over the ages had incorporated the power of these cmities into their own celestial power, condensing and fortifying their Coronas to be glorious Boundless Immortals¡­

    "A spittoon?" Yun Xiao felt out of sorts in this dazzling world. "His spit, their cmity, unbelievable."

    He still didn''t really see himself as the Creator Immortal. Viewing all this with his Worldly Dao Heart, he could only say it was utterly shocking.

    "The Boundless Light is arriving," Blue Star suddenly said.

    Yun Xiao looked ahead. From within the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity, a transparent light flew towards him. It instantaneously merged into his celestial power, spurring a transformation in the Primordial Void and preparing him to enter the Fourth Dao Tribtion.

    "We should leave, linger too long, and that thing might notice you," Blue Star advised.

    "What thing?"

    "The cricket you used to keep in the spittoon."

    "..." Yun Xiao remained silent.

    The Creator Immortal''s cricket, who knew what that could be. Even the guard dog was now the Divine Destion Demon God.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Yun Xiao exited the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity.

    Back at the Harmony Divine Pce on the snowy mountain, Yun Xiao stood in a daze.

    Without realizing it, the Future Life Cmity had already vanished. Its power had already integrated into his celestial power, albeit less so and not as distinct as the Present and Past Life Cmity.

    "This is the power of the Three Lives Samsara Cmity!"

    Yun Xiao could already feel the tribtion power of this Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source taking root within his Primordial Void, beginning to trigger a huge transformation in his celestial power!

    "The Sanguine Spirit Serpent Cmity evolved into the Sanguine Spirit Dragon Cmity after merging with Yao Yao. That puts it at Sealing Heaven grade. The Bleak Bone Wildfire Cmity Source my body double used is also Sealing Heaven grade¡­

    "But my true self is straight up using a Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source for my First Baptism!"

    No matter what kind of Corona formed, it was clear the nature of Yun Xiao''s celestial power would continuously undergo major transformations!

    The Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source was just that potent, even in the First Baptism Realm!

    This was the biggest and most direct change from his breakthrough!

    After that, it was time to inspect the Corona.

    Yun Xiao quickly noticed a peculiarity in his tribtion power.

    "A Boundless Light?"

    This Boundless Light from the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity, which had merged with his celestial power, was also transforming Yun Xiao''s tribtion power!

    "Wait a moment!"

    Moon Fairy had juste upon thest part of the introduction to the Three Lives Samsara Cmity Source!

    "Toplete the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms and reach the Eighth Baptism Realm, and to enter the Fifth Dao Tribtion, one must forge their Corona into a Boundless Corona to achieve the status of a Boundless Immortal.

    "To forge a Boundless Corona, one must simultaneously endure eight Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources and pass through eight tribtions. Sess will then open the gate to the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity and grant a Boundless Light.

    "A Boundless Light can forge a Boundless Corona.

    "The Three Lives Samsara Cmity Source ismonly used by cultivators of extraordinary talent to achieve the status of a Boundless Immortal..."

    Yun Xiao was utterly dumbfounded. He already possessed a Boundless Light! However, he had only endured one Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source, not eight simultaneously. Yet, he still managed to open a gate to the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity?

    He remembered now; the Past Life Cmity had opened the gate, taking him back to the ce where the Creator Immortal once spat.

    "So what''s my situation now? Am I in the Fourth Dao Tribtion or have I directly stepped into the Fifth Dao Tribtion?"

    From the volume of his celestial power, Yun Xiao was definitely in the Fourth Dao Tribtion¡ªand only in the First Baptism Realm at that, as the Fifth Dao Tribtion no longer cultivated the Corona.

    But from the properties of his Corona, he had undoubtedly obtained the Boundless Corona that all cultivators of the Samsara Gxy dreamed of forging...

 Chapter 794: Primordial Sphere!

    "You alright?" Feng Yao asked, her eyes fixed on Yun Xiao, who seemed caught between worlds.

    During his first tribtion, she had stood vigil by his side. One moment, he was drenched in sweat, teetering on the brink of death; the next, he was shouting for money and women, making her so embarrassed she felt she could dig three floors underground with her toes.

    Others faced their tribtions with fierce energies tearing through their bodies, plunging them into a hellishndscape where they became mere battlegrounds for shing celestial energies.

    Yun Xiao, on the other hand, seemed to be caught in a nightmare, yelling and thrashing about to no consequence. Most astonishing was his disappearance during the ordeal! Could this even be called a tribtion?

    Unbeknownst to Feng Yao, Yun Xiao had skirted closer to death than ever before, pulling back from the precipice at thest moment.

    When Yun Xiao reemerged, Feng Yao was astounded to find that he had harnessed the power of a tribtion. This new power was subtle and elusive, hard to gauge in strength, shrouded in mystery, utterlycking the brutal, bloodthirsty savagery of the Sanguine Spirit Dragon.

    "It suits him," Feng Yao thought bitterly, "Always acting mysterious, masking his true self." Was his earlier disy of panic just another act to toy with her?

    Frustrated and feeling foolish for her concern, she couldn''t help but pinch his face hard.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes snapped open, his voice tinged with incredulity, "What are you doing? I was literally on the brink of life and death.""And yet you''re not dead," Feng Yao retorted dryly.

    Stumped, Yun Xiao had no answer. He ignored her, focusing instead on integrating his newfound power while absorbing the Heavenly Dao Sariras to bolster his celestial power.

    Inside him, the Three Lives Samsara Cmity spurred transformations with the Primordial Void merging thoroughly and boosting his celestial power tremendously. His Nine Suns Dantian and the Nine Heavens Star Meridians strained under the pressure.

    It was a precursor to the formation of a Corona.

    Sure enough, in the next moment, the forces of the Three Lives Samsara Cmity converged explosively, erupting like a volcano. His power surged through his crown, manifesting above him.

    A Corona shimmering white with hints of gold slowly emerged above his head.

    "The Corona is born from both celestial and tribtion power, but mostly celestial power. And my celestial power is forged from the Primordial Void Technique," Yun Xiao mused as he gazed upward.

    Composed of three rings¡ªinner, middle, and outer¡ªeach pulsing with tribtion power, the Corona was simple yetplete. It enhanced Yun Xiao''s aura and stature, a perfect embodiment of his transcendent spirit.

    As for why there were three rings, it was clearly tied to the Three Lives Samsara. The outer ring represented the past, the middle ring the present, and the inner ring the future.

    A radiant light, like a white thread, wound around the Corona.

    "This must be the Boundless Light," Yun Xiao observed.

    The Corona wasplete! But what use was it?

    "It''s too white, almost like a wreath. One might think you''d already passed away." Feng Yao chuckled, covering her mouth.

    "Presumptuous." Yun Xiao shot her a stern nce before he slowly levitated. He closed his eyes, feeling the power of the Corona.

    This Corona was essentially a new type of power source, yet distinct from the Dantian, though their essences were aligned.

    About half of Yun Xiao''s celestial and tribtion power resided within the Corona, the three rings endlessly cycling.

    So, the Corona had be a part of his body! It was a new part, like a new limb, and he was gradually learning to open and close it...

    "Open!"

    <em>BUZZ! </em>At Yun Xiao''smand, the Corona vibrated, its power spinning faster.

    In the next instant, celestial energy from heaven and earth rushed towards it!

    The Corona then became like a bottomless pit, or a ravenous beast, wildly devouring all the ambient celestial energy.

    Above in the heavens, a cloud-shaped funnel formed, and at the bottom of this funnel was his Corona!

    As vast amounts of celestial energy swarmed in, the three rings of the Corona suddenly expanded, inting like a white sphere, swelling instantly!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>In a brief moment, the sphere expanded to a diameter of 30 meters, engulfing Yun Xiaopletely.

    Inside this white sphere, Yun Xiao was surrounded by a perfect, cyclical force, like a wheel of samsara, with a tempest of celestial energy surrounding him.

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao quickly noticed that under the influence of the Corona, the celestial energy was rapidly transforming into Primordial Void Tribtion Power!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>In just a short time, the white 30-meter-wide sphere was filled with the gaseous tribtion power, its power perfectly matching the power within Yun Xiao''s body.

    Most importantly, Yun Xiao could now control this power at will through his Corona.

    In other words, this 30-meter sphere was essentially his Corona itself!

    It drew celestial energy from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, swelling to amplify Yun Xiao''s own power.

    "Primordial Sphere?" Yun Xiao sensed the name of his Corona intuitively.

    "What use is your Corona, anyway?" Feng Yao climbed inside the sphere, which was spacious enough for them to brawl.

    Her Corona could transform into a blood dragon, a highly visible and advanced enhancement.

    "If I''m not mistaken..." Yun Xiao lowered his head and concentrated on a punch.

    The tribtion power within him, as well the Primordial Sphere, converged into his fist from inside and out.

    "Watch." Yun Xiao gently threw his punch.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Though it was a light punch, it exploded with the force of a tempest, stirring the Primordial Sphere. The entire sphere vibrated intensely, unleashing a white flying fist that shot towards Feng Yao.

    "Ah!" Feng Yao channeled her First Baptism Realm cultivation, bolstered by her devilish physique, to counter the punch. Despite her enhancements, she was still overwhelmed by Yun Xiao''s punch. Her clothes billowed as she was flung skyward in disarray.

    "Was that really necessary? Did you have to go all out? Do you have something against me?" Feng Yaonded disheveled and red at Yun Xiao.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao looked at his fist and said quietly, "That wasn''t full strength, not even 30%."

    "Less than 30%? Bullshit! You literally just broke through! I''m in the Late stage, and you''re still in the Early stage. Yet, you''re somehow overpowering me?" Feng Yao was skeptical.

    She knew well the strength of Yun Xiao''s Mortal Dust Blood Cmity. With Yun Xiao''s nurturing, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood''s potency and ability to punch above its weight were both increasing!

    "Do you think you could defeat someone in the Late stage of the Second Baptism Realm right now?" Yun Xiao asked seriously.

    "With the Sanguine Spirit Dragon Corona, and after learning some celestial techniques, I should be able to," Feng Yao replied.

    That meant she could also potentially defeat enemies a full realm above her¡ªpreviously, she could only take on people two or three stages above her.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao, with his Sword Soul, Life Sigil, and Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, was already capable of challenging opponents an entire realm above him.

    That said, only a portion of that capability to transcend realms was supported by the Primordial Void Technique.

    Now, it appeared the Primordial Sphere and Corona represented the vast majority of hisbat prowess.

    "With the support of this Primordial Sphere, I feel I could even take on someone in the Third Baptism Realm," Yun Xiao said, his eyes shining.

    "How is that possible? I just managed to barely be able to take on someone one realm above me, and you''re doing two?" Feng Yao said incredulously.

    Yet, if that flying fist was truly just 30% of his power, then it might indeed be possible.

    "This Primordial Sphere Corona acts as an external, wide-area Primordial Void, amplifying my base power andpensating for my deficiencies in cultivation and total strength," Yun Xiao exined deeply.

    "That exaggerated, huh?" Feng Yao was astounded.

    "Yes. My Three Lifetimes Samsara Cmity is already Upper Burying Heaven grade. Whenbined with the Primordial Void, it also grants destructive power," Yun Xiao continued.

    This was why he could potentially make such a terrifying leap in power, even in the Early stage of the First Baptism Realm.

    After all, for most cultivators, a difference of ten stages potentially represented hundreds of years of arduous cultivation!

    With just his Corona and the Burying Heaven grade tribtion power, Yun Xiao had nearly bridged that gap.

    "The most terrifying part is, as your cultivation continues to rise indefinitely, this Corona''s enhancement will always be with you. Are you saying you''ll always have a supercharged power source?" Feng Yao was just beginning to grasp the nature of the Corona.

    She had read some about Coronas but hadn''t found any as formidable as Yun Xiao''s.

    "That''s right, but it seems there''s a slight drawback..." Yun Xiao frowned.

    "What''s the drawback?" Feng Yao asked.

    Yun Xiao, harnessing the tribtion power of the Primordial Sphere, said, "After the recent expenditure, I''ve realized that the Corona doesn''t replenish energy as quickly as the Dantian. So, this supercharged state is not sustainable for prolongedbat, only for short bursts..."

    "I see. So, you''re a quickshot," Feng Xiao said, almostughing.

    Yun Xiao was so perfect it was refreshing for her to see a w in hisbat capabilities, and naturally, she couldn''t resist a bit of scorn.

    "Oh? Wait!"

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao burst out intoughter.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 795: The Territory of Frosty Female Sword Immortals!

    "Huh, what now?" Feng Yao felt her heart skip a beat.

    "A Boundless Light, truly a blessing in disguise. Is that what Boundless Immortal means?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    Just as his words fell, his Primordial Sphere seemed to undergo a transformation. With a hum, its efficiency in absorbing and converting celestial energy skyrocketed, bing a veritable abyss!

    Now, the Primordial Sphere was about 100 meters in diameter. As the Boundless Light merged into the Corona, it seemed to radiate an inexhaustible power!

    It was boundless indeed. There was no need to worry about running out of energy!

    "It''s full again¡­" Feng Yao could tell by looking at the round, overflowing Primordial Sphere that it was on the verge of spilling over again.

    Why did Yun Xiao always seem to defy expectations? She was speechless.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "The Boundless Light is pretty nifty," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "You''re still different from a true, Boundless Immortal, who doesn''t need to manually control it. It''s automatic," Blue Star scoffed."Indeed¡­"

    This thread of Boundless Light felt faint, almost concealed; only when Yun Xiao revealed it did it seem slightly perceptible.

    "After the disaster, a bountiful harvest." Yun Xiao dispelled the Primordial Sphere. His Corona returned to its normal state, gradually dimming into obscurity.

    "No more showing off?" Feng Yao snorted.

    "What''s there to show off? Even if we can beat people in the Third Baptism Realm, we''re still at the bottom of the rung in the Samsara Gxy," Yun Xiao thought for a moment, then added, "If you want to do well in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, apart from breaking through in your cultivation, try to find your master and get more celestial techniques and treasures to bolster your arsenal."

    "Got it, rx, I''m more reliable now," Feng Yao said.

    As they were speaking, a figure approached from the direction of the main peak of Thousand Snow Moon Peak.

    Yun Xiao stepped back into the distance.

    The neer was Feng Yao¡¯s master, the gentle Moon Lemon Valkyrie, Xue Yuening.

    This graceful eldernded and asked with a hint of wonder, "I sensed a tremendous surge of celestial energy just now from this direction. Was that you?"

    "Yup, it was nothing much!" Feng Yao dered without a blush or a skip in her heartbeat.

    Yun Xiao had long since realized that she too had a ir for the dramatic! Her zest for life, aside from serving as his right hand, was mostly found in these rare moments of y-acting, a small reward to herself.

    "Truly splendid," Xue Yuening remarked, her heart filled with satisfaction as she spoke softly, "I''m here to share some good news as well."

    "What is it?" Feng Yao, ever cheerful and unrestrained, moved closer and affectionately looped her arm through Xue Yuening''s, her face bright with curiosity.

    Caught off guard by the warmth, Xue Yuening paused, then smiled. "The Valkyrie Princesses of the Snow Lineage, along with several other higher-ups, have agreed to my suggestion. Tomorrow morning, they will bring out the Harmony Crown, and I will take you to meet them."

    "Oh..." For Feng Yao, this was not exactly good news. Her concerns stemmed from their mere spection, while she knew the true extent to which she could light up the Harmony Crown.

    The more radiant the Harmony Crown, the better the resources but also greater the danger.

    Yet, considering that Yun Xiao wanted her to shine more, she resigned herself to the idea. "Never mind, he''s all bark and no bite. If I truly face danger, he''ll save me, right? Right?" she mumbled to herself.

    Seeing Feng Yao lost in thought, Xue Yuening smiled gently. "Don¡¯t worry, although that previous crown was a replica, your 7-Star talent is unmistakable. This is just to see if you can rise higher. Trust me, you won¡¯t fall."

    "I''m not afraid of falling. I¡¯m just afraid I might soar and break through the roof..." Feng Yao murmured timidly.

    "You child!" Xue Yuening chuckled, her heart swelling with affection. It appeared Feng Yao was still a girl at heart, daring to boast like that.

    "By the way, Master, have you registered me for the initial selection of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects?" Feng Yao inquired.

    "I have," Xue Yuening nodded.

    "Aren''t only Ster Sea Disciples in the Perfect Second Baptism Realm and above allowed to register?" Feng Yao said.

    "I pulled a few strings. No worries, it¡¯s also a good opportunity for you to gain some experience and get a feel for the strength of top talents from various factions of the Harmony Divine Pce. You''re only 17 years old. So, you have three more chances to participate in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects! By the time you''re 47 years old, who knows how high you¡¯ll have climbed? With your talent, you might rank among the best throughout the Samsara Gxy," Xue Yuening encouraged.

    "Forty-seven years old? I''ll be an old biddy by then," Feng Yao retorted, her lip curling.

    "Hey, watch yournguage," Xue Yuening admonished. She couldn''t help but reflect, "This child, as adult as she seems on the outside, she''s still a child at heart."

    "Master, I want to dazzle in the selection. Can you show me some suitable celestial techniques?" Feng Yao cooed as she clung to the shorter Valkyrie¡¯s arm, creating quite a spectacle.

    "Of course, I can. Our little genius can have whatever she desires." Xue Yuening, no longer young and without a daughter of her own, found her maternal instincts fully awakened as she looked upon the War Princess with growing fondness.

    And so, the two of them set off toward the main peak.

    Left alone, Yun Xiao stood solitary, bathed in the snow of the Carefree Pce.

    "A pig will naturally fatten up over time, and once let loose, it''ll fatten itself even more¡­" Yun Xiao mused with a slight smile as he watched Feng Yao disappear into the distance. He was pleased with her performance.

    Since boosting her confidence, Feng Yao truly thrived, and unless absolutely necessary, Yun Xiao saw no need to retract the Blood Base for battle.

    "You''re eventually going to kill her, though," Blue Star suddenly remarked.

    "Whether ites to that or not, why worry now?" Yun Xiao was content, unaffected by the remark, and it did not alter his regard for Feng Yao.

    He remained where he was.

    Tomorrow morning Feng Yao would test her true talents, and in the afternoon, she would officially enter the preliminary selections, hoping to extricate Yun Xiao from this ursed ce.

    "But, these are her affairs. I can''t just sit here and wait. It¡¯s enough that the pig can fend for itself."

    Waiting for Feng Yao to bring back treasures was merely a waste of time.

    Now stepping into the Fourth Dao Tribtion, Yun Xiao was eager to advance through the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms.

    "Sword, Sigil, Martial, and Spirit¡­ I need to find a ce to enrich my arsenal and power up," Yun Xiao muttered to himself.

    Between sword and sigil, he preferred to focus on his Heaven Burial Sword Soul first, given its offensive capabilities, while the Prison Warden Sigil offered more utility.

    Having chosen the sword, Yun Xiao''s next destination became clear.

    "The Ice Lineage!" Yun Xiao did not set off on his Sovereign Sword. A ve like him doing that in the Harmony Divine Pce was akin to running around naked.

    His form wavering, he disappeared into the snowstorm, heading northeast.

    The most beautiful sights in the Snow Lineage were the pristine white mountains under a sky filled with drifting snowkes. And dotting these mountains, the pces of the Valkyries stood as the most exquisite embellishments.

    In contrast, the territory of the Ice Lineage was a frozen expanse spanning thousands of miles, frigid and stern, akin to a forest of ice and swords.

    Many powerful female Sword Immortals had emerged from it, and today it stood as the mightiest lineage of the Harmony Divine Pce!

    As Yun Xiao crossed over the snowy mountains, andscape of icebergs, icekes, ice caves, ice ins, and ice spires came into view ahead!

    This ce was colder than the snowy mountains! Not just cold, but also bearing an air of solemn lethality.

    Frozen within the ice were numerous clots of blood, evidence of many a life-and-death struggle that had urred here.

    Some corpses were even permanently encased in ice.

    "There are far too many Sword Immortals stronger than I am here..."

    And so Yun Xiao proceeded with great caution, silently making his way through the ice ins and peaks, gazing up at the ice pces atop the high mountains.

    These pces surely housed various frosty female Sword Immortals!

    "Hmm?" After a while, Yun Xiao suddenly noticed a group of about 100 ves gathered together on the ice in ahead.

    They huddled for warmth, shivering, their faces pale, some even with frostbitten ears. And more importantly, there were no disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce in sight.

    Seeing these <em>men</em>, and recalling the four youths he had encountered before¡­ Yun Xiao could only sigh and made his way toward them.

 Chapter 796: Twin Female Sword Immortals, Slave Pill-Making!

    In the icendscape where snow never ceased, over 100 young men, clear-browed and withely eyes, were frozen still, not dead but deeply chilled. Their lips turned white and their ears cracked and bled in the harsh frost of the Harmony Divine Pce, making for a pitiable sight.

    Yun Xiao stepped forward and greeted the group with a nod. ¡°Hey, what brings you all here?¡±

    The young men silently turned and nced at him. None spoke; they merely shuffled quietly, making room for Yun Xiao to squeeze in.

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, no man was an exception.

    ¡°Why not flee, with no one watching?¡± Yun Xiao''s words hung in the air, instantly recognizing them as futile.

    There was but one exit in the whole realm, and all men lived here as prisoners. Where could they possibly escape to?

    They seemed even more numb than the four youths he had encountered earlier.

    ¡°To them, perhaps even speaking has lost its meaning¡­¡± Yun Xiao mused silently, unsure of what to say tofort them.

    ¡°Let it be. When the chance arises, I¡¯ll solve this at the root once and for all.¡±He patted his <em>brothers</em> on the shoulders, nning to leave.

    Just then, two dazzling streaks of sword light zed from a distant icy peak, spiraling down through the fog with ferocious speed, reaching overhead in an instant.

    It was toote for Yun Xiao to escape!

    He looked up sharply, his keen eyes catching the figures atop the swords in a single nce.

    They were two young Sword Immortals, twins by the look of them, with identical stances and visages, regal as ice princesses with frostden blue hair streaming behind them.

    In the eyes of the 100 or so ves, they were nothing less than snow goddesses, exalted and untouchable, their dignified noses and detached expressions speaking volumes of their nobility and the sanctity that forbade any profanity.

    "Keep up!" snapped one of the ice-cold Sword Immortals, not even ncing at the throng of ves as she moved forward.

    Instantly, the ves, who had stood as if frozen moments before, sprang to life. They summoned all their celestial power, gritted their teeth, and charged forward like wild oxen, following the twin celestial maidens into the fray.

    Yun Xiao found himself caught up in the surge, almost carried along without a moment to think. If he fell slightly behind, the <em>Good Samaritans</em> around him would shove him forward.

    Amid this chaos, Yun Xiao lifted his head. Looking up from the perspective of the ves, the two celestial maidens above seemed to oppress them so heavily they could hardly breathe. It was an untouchable, unreachable kind of feeling.

    Being looked down on was one thing, but being powerless added ayer of true despair. Despair so profound, it turned them into walking corpses.

    Following the 100 or so ves, Yun Xiao traversed mountains and valleys, leaving trails of blood on the sharp ice spikes. Even when shed by the ice, these young men felt nothing; their bodies were already battered and bruised beyond their years.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Ahead, atop a frosty peak, a grand and chilling ice pce loomed into view. Its signboard grandlybeled it as the Jade Moon Divine Pce, each stroke of the characters sharp as a sword, cutting to the bone.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The twinsnded, their ice-blue capes billowing, whipping up a storm of snowkes.

    The snow scraped across the faces of the ves following behind, drawing blood¡ªyet they felt nothing as they entered the pce together.

    Inside the Jade Moon Divine Pce, everything wasvishly decorated, with a training room, technique room, cultivation room, etc¡­ all neatly organized.

    "Sister, do you think this batch of 120 ves is enough? I''m worried it''s not enough, the Ice River Pills might be wed," one of the blue-haired twins asked, frowning.

    "We have no choice," the other replied. "The Snow Lineage''s Diva has taken too many ves. We''re short on materials and can''t wait any longer for the Ice River Pills¡ªwe had to make do with what we could get."

    "Fine then! What is the Snow Lineage Diva up to, inspecting all the ves of the Harmony Divine Pce? What''s there to inspect in these beasts?" the two discussed as the grandest pce yet came into view.

    This was the alchemy room!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Upon their arrival, with a wave of their hands, the doors of the Pill Immortal Hall burst open, sending ice dust swirling into the air!

    Inside, a chilling aura assaulted them, and a massive pill furnace dominated the view. The front of the furnace was adorned with the fierce carving of an ice beast, its lid sealed tight, emitting puffs of ice-blue smoke.

    Beneath the furnace, a fierce white celestial fire burned, not with heat, but with a biting coldness.

    "The fire''s dying out!" The faces of the twins showed a flicker of concern.

    "Quick!"

    They turned, ring at the ves.

    Seeing the furnace, the faces of the ves, numb for too long, finally showed deep fear and despair.

    They instinctively curled up together, trembling, some starting to whimper in panic.

    "What are you crying for? A bunch of male beasts," the younger twin said with anger and disbelief at their behavior.

    From her perspective, the fear and despair of these men were utterly meaningless.

    "Get in!" She grabbed a ve by his cor, yanked him up from where he stood, and was about to throw him into the furnace.

    Why had they brought these ves back? The answer was revealed! Their flesh and blood were to be used as ingredients in their alchemy.

    The cold, white fire roared¡ªhow many bones had already been consumed by its mes?

    With a huff, the younger twin, strong in her fury, could hurl even a giant beast into the furnace.

    However, when she flung the ve, he did not fly off butnded smoothly, standing right before her.

    "Huh?" The younger twin was about to throw another ve but was momentarily dumbfounded by the unexpected resilience of the first.

    She clearly remembered the force of her throw, which under normal circumstances would turn a ve into pulp, fueling the fire directly.

    How had he slipped through the air like an eel? And how dare he?

    The younger twin stood frozen, her eyes wide with astonishment at this peculiar ve. That look might have been akin to suddenly finding a cow rather handsome¡­ Of course, handsome or not, it was still a cow.

    There was no fluttering heart, just an eerie feeling.

    "You dare to defy me?" she asked, incredulously.

    "Yup, just did," the handsome ve replied.

    "What¡­!?" The younger twin waspletely taken aback.

    "Hurry up, Shuiyue!" the older twin called from above the furnace, tending to the fire.

    Hearing this, the younger twin Bing Shuiyue, without further attention to Yun Xiao, grabbed another ve and hastily threw him toward the furnace.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Yun Xiao darted forward, caught the swiftly flying ve, and set him down gently, once again facing Bing Shuiyue.

    Now, not only Shuiyue but her sister took notice as well.

    "Sister, there seems to be a clown among the ves," Shuiyue said, tongue-tied.

    "Kill him, don''t waste time," the older twin instructed.

    "Alright then!" Bing Shuiyue rolled her eyes and summoned a fearsome Sword Soul, wielding the power of 300 Sword Prisons¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    The younger twin stood frozen, her eyes wide with astonishment at this peculiar ve. That look might have been akin to suddenly finding a cow rather handsome¡­ Of course, handsome or not, it was still a cow.</blockquote>

    <strong>Speak for yourself....</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 797: Northern Lights Shimmer!

    During that ordeal, over 100 ves stood transfixed. Their fists clenched tightly, they watched Yun Xiao with intense anxiety, fearing for his life.

    To them, Yun Xiao seemed to be challenging the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, a taboo of the greatest order in this world.

    But in the eyes of the younger twin, there was only a speechless coldness.

    The Sword Soul in her hand shimmered like ice, semi-transparent, with 300 icy Sword Prisons swirling around it. These miniature worlds took the form of phoenix-like birds, emitting shrill, piercing cries that shook the wilderness.

    The mere sound of these Sword Prisons wailing was enough to cause the ears of the ves to bleed.

    "What is this nonsense!" the younger twin scoffed, her Sword Soul morphing into a Flying Sword. With a casual flick, she hurled it towards Yun Xiao¡¯s brow.

    <em>WHOOSH!</em> The air turned bitterly cold as the Flying Sword shed forward like an iceberg hurtling towards Yun Xiao.

    The ves gasped in horror.

    In the blink of an eye, Yun Xiao¡¯s expression remained serene. The Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his grasp instantly transformed into a Palm Sword. His 200 plus Sword Prisons were not much fewer than that of the younger twin.His movements, though appearing slow, were incredibly swift¡ªslow only because they were graceful and fluid.

    With a casual flick of his three-foot azure de, he precisely deflected the icy Flying Sword to the side.

    The ear-splitting sh sparked blue sparks as the swords met against each other, a fierce shockwave sweeping past Yun Xiao, lifting his long hair.

    However, that was it. The lethal blow from the younger twin was flicked into the sky.

    It was like a bull charging at a rabbit, only to be deftly flipped away!

    After this spectacle, the gasps of the ves ceased abruptly. Their eyes wide and speechless, they stared at Yun Xiao, momentarily at a loss for words.

    Seeing this, the younger twin''s face twisted as if she had swallowed a fly, a mix of bitterness and shock that was indescribable.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± The older twin turned her head upon hearing themotion.

    ¡°Sister¡­¡± Bing Shuiyue stared fixedly at Yun Xiao, her voice cold as the void, ¡°This manscum might have reached the Second Baptism Realm, it really seems like he''s trying to fight back!¡±

    ¡°Stop making a fuss, just finish him off!¡± the older twin, Bing Yuyang, said exasperated.

    ¡°Fine!¡± Clearly, Bing Shuiyue had not employed her full strength in her previous attack.

    Realizing that Yun Xiao was indeed the rumored type of ve who bore insults and burdens while still clinging to hope, she now lost all patience to treat him as a mere amusing toy.

    "You think you can handle swords? Try catching this one!¡± she scoffed.

    After retrieving her Flying Sword, Bing Shuiyueunched another attack, profoundly different from before.

    As her Flying Sword soared, the Corona above her head lit up first, a circle of ice-blue light that suddenly spun into motion, transforming into an icy ring that flew onto the Flying Sword!

    When the Corona and the Flying Sword merged, the now Sealing Heaven grade Flying Sword stirred up a tempest of ice and snow. Within the storm, hundreds of thousands of tiny ice crystal swords mixed with the Flying Sword, creating a veritable ice hell, obscuring any trace of the Flying Sword itself!

    And this time, Bing Shuiyue unleashed her Third Baptism Realm power!

    Having endured three of the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms, her strength contained the tribtion power of three Cmity Sources, mingling together to freeze even the air into countless ice crystals that stabbed at Yun Xiao.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Bing Shuiyue was a Taiji Disciple, truly a peerless prodigy of the Harmony Divine Pce!

    This attack was more than ten times stronger than her previous one.

    ¡°A mere ve forcing me to exert my full power, consider it the glory of your life,¡± she sneered at Yun Xiao.

    In her eyes, Yun Xiao seemed fearless of death, his expression unchanged.

    He looked up, his gaze sweeping over the deadlybination of the Corona and the Flying Sword.

    The structure of this Flying Sword, every detail, was clear in his mind.

    ¡°The sword techniques of a Category 3 celestial realm, truly quite exquisite.¡±

    This was why Yun Xiao had gone <em>hunting</em>.

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, relying on others was unrealistic; the only way was to take by force. The key to this approach was not to strike first; otherwise, his own spiritual integrity would falter.

    To top it off, the women in this world didn''t even regard him as another person. So, he had no qualms about killing and looting!

    A Third Baptism Realm opponent was the upper limit of what Yun Xiao could take on. So, he didn''t lower his guard but focused intently on the iing sword.

    Simultaneously, the Corona atop his head suddenly started swallowing the surrounding celestial energy of heaven and earth like a bottomless pit.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Amidst the onught of ice and snow, the tinum Primordial Sphere suddenly expanded!

    In an instant, Yun Xiao''s disadvantages in power and cultivation were rapidlypensated. His inner and outer tribtion power surged, and in a blink, the external tribtion of the Three Lives Samsara Cmity nearly quintupled the amount inside him!

    Yun Xiao also experienced the sensation of explosive power. It felt exhrating! His spirit soared ordingly.

    To him, the enemy¡¯s Flying Sword was nowpletely dissected in his view.

    Yun Xiao didn''t even know the name of this Flying Sword!

    Yet, in the sh of a moment, he gathered the power of the Three Lives Samsara Cmity and channeled it into his Heaven Burial Sword Soul. The azure Flying Sword trembled violently, emitting a dark azure aura of death.

    This deathly aura,bined with the tribtion power, instantly condensed into chunks of dark azure ice crystals.

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! </em>Countless dark azure ice swords formed.

    Like releasing a small sparrow, Yun Xiao let the Flying Sword fly from his hand.

    As the dark azure Flying Sword was unleashed, it instantly formed a sea of deathly ice, not morphing into thousands of ice swords, but coalescing into a single entity that met Bing Shuiyue¡¯s sword head-on!

    Indeed, with ease and precision, he had pinpointed the location of Bing Shuiyue¡¯s illusory sword amid the snow.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The dark azure ice sword, carrying a deathly chill, devoured its opposition. The ice-blue crystals from Bing Shuiyue quickly darkened and, astonishingly, turned against her!

    "Northern Lights Shimmer¡­"

    This unbelievable scene shifted Bing Shuiyue¡¯s expression from detached coldness to stark astonishment!

    Her eyes widened in shock!

    In that brief moment, the two Flying Swords collided perfectly, tip against tip.

    The ves present clutched their ears, their eardrums splitting, bloodied in pain.

    Yet, they watched, transfixed, as a momentous scene unfolded¡­

    "Ah!"

    At the instant of the collision, Bing Shuiyue screamed in agony. Her voice trembled, her face turned ashen, and her body convulsed.

    Looking towards her Flying Sword, now recoiling back to her, it visibly sported cracks and had turned a sickening shade of dark azure, like rotting flesh emitting a foul stench.

    As if struck by lightning, Bing Shuiyue spat out a mouthful of ck blood, her spirit damaged, her eyes clouded in confusion.

    "Impossible, this shouldn¡¯t be¡­"

    Her mind a whirl of scarlet, Bing Shuiyue shook her head in denial, unable to ept the reality.

    As her inner turmoil reached a climax, the redirected ice crystal swords showed no mercy. Like a storm, they sted towards her.

    <em>KA-CHUNK! KA-CHUNK! KA-CHUNK! </em>Even as she desperately defended and dodged, many ice crystals hit, her delicate body spraying blood and staining the snow red.

    This bloody spectacle, coupled with the cracks in her Sword Soul, spoke an undeniable truth: That she, a high and mighty Taiji Disciple of the Harmony Divine Pce, had been defeated by a mere ve.

    More astonishingly, few ves lived past the age of 49 years old¡­ So, it was likely he was younger than her!

    "This can¡¯t be real¡­!" Bing Shuiyue cried out, suddenly standing, clutching her shattered Sword Soul, both heart and body trembling.

    She looked up! There was Yun Xiao, right before her, holding a three-foot azure de, his expression detached and serene.

    "You manscum! I am a Taiji Disciple of the Harmony Divine Pce, my mother is the Frost Valkyrie, Bing Xuanqing! You¡¯vemitted a grave sin; even wishing for death will not be easy for you!" she roared in a frenzy.

    "Good, I''m not fond of wishing for death myself either."

 Chapter 798: Looting on Ice!

    Yun Xiao smiled, his hand a sh of steel as the three-foot azure de swept through the air.

    <em>THUD! </em>A head, noble and untouchable as a goddess, flew into the air...

    In the moment before it soared, Bing Shuiyue was utterly numb. She couldn''t fathom what had happened. To her, such an event was an impossibility, yet it had unfolded before her eyes.

    It was like a pig, reared at home, turning on its master¡ªan utterly preposterous tale...

    She hadn''t the time to unravel this mystery, for Yun Xiao had crisply and cleanly sent her on her way.

    ¡°What?¡± The gathered ves gawked in fright as the headless body of the goddess slumped softly to the ground before Yun Xiao.

    After that, Yun Xiao quipped, ¡°You struck first, intending to kill me. I''m not at fault here.¡±

    The ves were stunned to their cores! Only the blood on the ice told them this was no dream. The most unbelievable thing they could imagine had just happened¡­

    No words could capture the storm of feelings within them at that moment.They stood clustered together, hand in hand, as still as carved wood, staring at Yun Xiao, unable to move, as if rooted to the spot...

    ¡°Shuiyue!!!¡± Bing Yuyang was meticulously adjusting the me under her alchemy cauldron.

    She assumed her younger sister had dealt with that ridiculous ve and was about to add more fuel to the fire.

    Then, she heard a strange sound and turned her head!

    A head, wide-eyed and dumbstruck, rolled beneath the cauldron furnace, ignited by the icy blue mes!

    Bing Yuyang felt her scalp go numb! She could not have been mistaken! This was the head of her inseparable sister¡­ Ever since their mother drank from the Divine Spring, they had been together!

    ¡°Uh.¡± Bing Yuyang froze above the cauldron, her throat blocked as if choked, unable to utter a sound no matter how hard she tried.

    ¡°Hah, ugh...¡± She breathed heavily, lifting her head to look at that <em>ridiculous </em>ve.

    Reflected in the shimmering ice, the young man in white stood with his azure de, smiling at her and saying, ¡°Spend less time in shock, and more in sending your head my way.¡±

    ¡°You, ve, you killed... Shuiyue...¡± Bing Yuyang gathered all her strength to utter this iprehensible sentence.

    ¡°Correct,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    Hearing this, Bing Yuyang finally epted the truth.

    Her teeth clenched in cold fury, then she drew out a flying talisman!

    Clearly still lucid, she knew to spread this sensational news, a revtion that would certainly rock the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Witnessing the scene, Yun Xiao, without a second word, drew his sword and charged!

    Three talismans soared into the sky.

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! WHOOSH! </em>With a single step, Yun Xiao unleashed a streak of azure light, sending three Flying Swords through the heavens to shatter the talismans.

    Bing Yuyang retaliated with eight more talismans, and Yun Xiao countered each with eight strikes of his sword!

    No matter the number, he destroyed them all.

    In Yun Xiao''s presence,unching talismans was a futile endeavor.

    The lesson learned from the goose-yellow girl who had sent three talismans before was not forgotten.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Bing Yuyang was furious, her murderous aura overwhelming.

    Unlike her sister Bing Shuiyue, who had somewhat underestimated Yun Xiao, Bing Yuyang¡¯s hatred only amplified her fighting spirit!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Surprisingly, she managed to restrain her murderous intent, summoning her Sword Soul to transform into a six-foot Sovereign Sword, and she turned to flee skyward!

    Still, this didn''t lessen the humiliation. A Taiji Disciple of the Harmony Divine Pce had chosen to flee from a mere ve!

    Without hesitation, Yun Xiao pursued with his Sovereign Sword!

    "Damn it!" Bing Yuyang nced back, her eyes colder than ever.

    She was teeming with the desire to turn and fight, but the only shred of reason left told her to let others deal with Yun Xiao!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A Corona shone brightly above her head, splitting into two rings that wrapped around her legs. Ice and frost burst forth, drastically increasing her Sovereign Sword¡¯s speed.

    Clearly, the Corona''s power enhanced her control and speed of the Sovereign Sword!

    With such an increase in speed, Bing Yuyang soared into the clouds!

    "I should have lost him..." She breathed a sigh of relief, but when she looked back, she was terrified.

    Yun Xiao was out of sight, yet there was a massive sphere, over 30 meters in diameter, chasing her!

    This sphere voraciously absorbed the celestial energy of the heavens and earth, spinning wildly and stirring a cyclonic storm!

    ¡°That scum!¡± Bing Yuyang clenched her teeth, suppressing the volcanic fury within her.

    <em>VROOM! </em>Beneath her feet, the Sovereign Sword surged with a change, unleashing a snowstorm. A vast ice river stretched across the sky, and Bing Yuyang, gliding as though skating atop the heavens, shot forward with even greater speed!

    As she sped through the sky, the crack and roar of ice explosions echoed all around her, shaking the very air.

    Had it not been for the immense size of the Harmony Divine Pce, this ce would have already been packed with spectators!

    ¡°You¡¯re finished, finished¡­!¡± She cursed through clenched teeth, cold and venomous, thinking she had finally escaped. But in the blink of an eye, a chilling wave of dark azure mist surged up behind her!

    Bing Yuyang shuddered! She turned in shock, only to see a deep azure ice river, born from the massive sphere, stretching behind her. Above the vast skies, Yun Xiao was racing forward, gliding on his Sovereign Sword, faster than she had ever seen before.

    He had perfectly replicated her own sword technique, the Skyfault Ice River!

    ¡°How does he know our family''s Sovereign Sword technique?!¡±

    Her heart pounded in terror.

    In that instant, within the sphere, she saw the white-robed youth. The one they had always regarded as a lowly and powerless ve now looked cold and distant.

    His bearing was loftier than theirs had ever been. How could someone like this ever be a ve? An invisible hand seemed to clutch her heart, squeezing it tight!

    He was fast, faster than she couldprehend!

    Before she could react, Yun Xiao had already closed the several hundred-meter gap between them in an instant, skating through the air like a whisper of ice, right behind her!

    ¡°Die!¡± Bing Yuyang couldn¡¯t bear it any longer. She spun and hurled her Sovereign Sword at Yun Xiao with all her might.

    In the vast sky, the two collided with a deafening crash!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Their Sovereign Swords shed like two great beasts locking horns, ice and lightning exploding around them, their screeching sh splitting the heavens with a blinding light!

    A burst of blood sprayed into the air, and another headless corpse plummeted from the sky!

    The 100 or so ves below widened their eyes, clearly seeing the silhouette of a celestial maiden they considered sacred and unattainable...

    "Uh¡­!"

    They stood rooted, still unable to utter a word. It was as though they had been caught in a dream. A ludicrous yet thrilling dream!

    In the next instant, the young man in white appeared before them, carrying two bodies. He threw the corpses to the ground and then, with his Sword Soul, devoured their Sword Bones. After looting what he could, he looked up.

    "You may leave," Yun Xiao said.

    "Go, go where...?"

    Their numbness began to dissipate slightly.

    "It doesn¡¯t matter. Just try to die slower, maybe then you won''t have to die at all," Yun Xiao said.

    "Live, survive..."

    They nodded eagerly, like chicks pecking at grains.

    "The Alchemy Cauldron, the Ice Sword Pavilion..."

    Clearly, these ces held a standard above that of Taiji Disciples, suggesting that the Jade Moon Divine Pce was likely an intermediate pce of their mother, the Frost Valkyrie Bing Xuanqing.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao broke into the Ice Sword Pavilion and discovered many jade slips inside.

    ncing at one, he found it contained sword techniques. This Ice Sword Pavilion housed at least 1,000 different sword arts!

    This was exactly what Yun Xiao needed.

    He didn¡¯t take any jade slips with him; instead, he repeatedly read through them.

    Before long, he had finished. When he emerged from the Ice Sword Pavilion, the ves had already gone far.

    The traces of blood left by Bing Shuiyue and Bing Yuyang were nearly covered by the frost.

    "Not a bad harvest." Yun Xiao was satisfied.

    Just then, a slightly trembling voice came from behind him.

    "Senior, did youe to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm just to y at being a ve?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 799: Were Back! Acting is My Calling!

    The voice arrived silent as the snow, yet startlingly close! Such proximity heralded the arrival of someone immensely powerful.

    Neither Blue Star nor Red Moon had detected the presence, a testament to the terrifying stealth of the neer...

    Yun Xiao, however, possessed a heart as broad and calm as the ocean. He turned, with a serene detachment, to face the speaker.

    In this stark world of ice, a woman stood behind him. She was an existence both breathtaking and suffocating.

    She was breathtaking for her beauty was unparalleled and celestial; and suffocating, for her nobility, power, and coldness were immense.

    No icy figure, be it Bing Shuiyue or Bing Xuanqing, could rival her coldness.

    She seemed the embodiment of this icy realm¡ªa solitary coldness, as if the whole world was encased in ice!

    Yun Xiao felt a reverence, reminiscent of his first encounter with the Diva of the Snow Lineage.

    Naturally, this woman appeared older than that girl with white hair and ruby pink eyes, her demeanor more enigmatic, her long blue hair cascading like icy waterfalls.She bore a serpent''s tail too! But this tail was of a pale blue, shimmering on the ice, its tip sharp as an icicle.

    Beyond her serpentine form, she bore an even more unique trait. In between her brow, a vertical crystal-like eye was embedded in her forehead. It was like a gem, devoid of gaze but emitting an ancient, cold light.

    Yun Xiao knew it to be an eye, for it scrutinized him intently!

    In short, this woman was the embodiment of frost, beauty, allure, and cold elegance! She was like a towering ice sword of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    Despite only being in the First Baptism Realm, Yun Xiao met her three-eyed gaze.

    Aware of her strength, he dared not show weakness.

    Crucially, the respectful way she greeted him opened avenues for maneuver.

    "How did you discern that?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile, his tone casual as if speaking to a younger sister.

    The ice-maiden with blue hair and eyes returned his gaze solemnly, a look of reverence in her eyes. "I was born with the Ice Spirit Eye, and saw the Boundless Light within your Corona."

    "Ah, a fine eye indeed," Yun Xiao responded, hands sped behind him, nodding slightly.

    Truthfully speaking, he was like amb entering the tiger¡¯s den.

    Yet, he was certain that due to the Boundless Light, she had mistaken him for a Boundless Immortal.

    In the Samsara Gxy, the Boundless Light unequivocally marked a person as one!

    There were no exceptions!

    As for why Yun Xiao''s power and Corona seemed so modest¡­ He believed she had already concocted her own exnations.

    His best strategy now was to keep quiet.

    Indeed, his silence made the blue-haired beauty slightly anxious, and she asked softly, "May I ask, esteemed senior, if there is anything you require in our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm?"

    Yun Xiao shook his head, smiling. "I am but a carefree wanderer, enjoying the sights. Little girl, do as you please."

    The blue-haired beauty seemed a bit unsettled by his casual address. A trace of a smile forced itself upon her frosty face. Then, with a hint of nervousness, she asked, "Senior, is there something regarding the ves of the Harmony Divine Pce you wish to correct? Please speak freely, and we shall heed your advice."

    "Every being has its fate; none can rece the heavens in judging the mortal world. I am merely a carefree wanderer,cking such refined tastes. But you are indeed born with charm¡­ I wonder, could that serpent''s tail perhaps transform into human legs?" Yun Xiao appraised her openly.

    Despite her age likely surpassing that of Cao Shuo, his words flowed smoothly, almost fittingly.

    Hearing this, the blue-haired beauty hastily replied, "In our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, we do not concern ourselves with matters of gender; please, restrain yourself."

    "Oh? Then that¡¯s dull."

    At this, Yun Xiao seemed to lose interest. He sighed softly and turned to leave.

    He dared not fly away on his Sovereign Sword, lest he reveal too much; instead, he walked away, hands sped behind his back, each step deliberate, embodying the true feel of a carefree wanderer.

    Perhaps to the blue-haired beauty, this nonchnt demeanor truly seemed like that of an immortal transcending the mundane, relishing life.

    She stood still, watching Yun Xiao depart until he was no longer in sight, her brow furrowing deeply as she murmured, "The Samsara Gxy is vast and endless; who knew such a hidden, powerful Boundless Immortal existed."

    Yet, she harbored some doubts, her brows lightly furrowing.

    "Aren''t Boundless Immortals said to be devoid of desires? How can he still be so lecherous! Annoying!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    ¡°Who was that?¡± Red Moon blurted as Yun Xiao journeyed back to Thousand Snow Moon Peak.

    ¡°If I''m not mistaken, she must be the Diva of the Ice Lineage. The Harmony Divine Pce should have three in total, right?¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    Blue Star chuckled. ¡°You sure know how to y it cool, treating all the Divas like harmless girls.¡±

    "Not all, the Divas! There''s still one left to meet!¡± Red Moon corrected.

    ¡°Close enough,¡± Blue Star snickered.

    ¡°Enough!¡± Yun Xiao was exasperated with them.

    This encounter had been lucky; the woman with the Ice Spirit Eye had mistaken him for a Boundless Immortal.

    As forst time, that was good fortune too, catching her when she was at her weakest¡­

    Luckily, such high-stakes dangers came and went swiftly.

    Reflecting on it, treating one of the rulers of a world 1,000 timesrger than the Celestial Court like a harmless little girl right to her face was quite the thrill.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter, the gains this time were not bad.¡±

    Yun Xiao had learned all sorts of celestial sword techniques from Bing Xuanqing''s Ice Sword Pavilion.

    Among the 1,000 sword techniques, there was nothing weaker than Lower Sealing Heaven grade!

    Yun Xiao had even gotten his hands on nine Swallowing Heaven grade celestial sword techniques!

    Even the lowest Lower Sealing Heaven grade techniques were far superior to what he learned from the Thunder Department and Immortal Sword Court.

    Moreover, when these sword techniques werebined with the effects of his Corona, their killing power would only increase exponentially!

    The techniques of Sealing and Devouring,bined with his Corona, enriched theyers and exponentially increased their lethality.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back at the Carefree Pce., the War Princess had just returned from the main peak.

    Yun Xiao, having focused on his own affairs, hadn¡¯t paid much attention to her. He asked, ¡°How did your harvest go?¡±

    Feng Yao, bursting with pride, replied, ¡°I got several books, even Swallowing Heaven grade ones. My master treats me well!¡±

    ¡°Wow, that''s quite the haul.¡± Yun Xiao was mildly surprised. Letting her fend for herself seemed to have worked out well.

    ¡°Nonsense, my master even said that once I be a Taiji Disciple, she¡¯ll give me a Swallowing Heaven grade celestial weapon. Then I¡¯ll discard the trash you gave me,¡± Feng Yao boasted.

    ¡°Impressive,¡± Yun Xiao smiled. He knew she loved to brag, so he let her.

    ¡°Why are you grinning at me like that? Makes you seem like my father or some old uncle!¡± Feng Yao snorted.

    ¡°Exactly, I''m basically your parent at this point,¡± Yun Xiao teased.

    ¡°Pah!¡± Feng Yao, annoyed, didn¡¯t want to talk any longer.

    "Hand them over," Yun Xiao said, extending his hand.

    "What?" Feng Yao asked.

    "The celestial techniques you acquired. I''ll learn them and teach you," Yun Xiao exined.

    "No need, I can learn them myself!" Feng Yao retorted, then turned on her heel and sauntered into the Carefree Pce.

    Watching her figure recede, coupled with the lingering fragrance in the air...

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but smile knowingly.

    "The piggy''s bing more diligent."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    That night, Yun Xiao spent time with the War Princess. She was nearby, pondering new archery skills and celestial techniques.

    Yun Xiao, too, was digesting the myriad sword techniques he had gathered, attempting to integrate and refine them into a supreme killing sword that suited him perfectly.

    "It would be best to fully harness the power of the Corona."

    After the War Princess switched to using a bow and arrow, she found it verypatible with her Sanguine Spirit Dragon Corona.

    After settling for the night, the two of them had both made substantial progress!

    Soon, their second day in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm dawned.

    Early in the morning, Xue Yuening called from outside, "Yao Yao, it''s time to set out."

    Hearing the voice, Yun Xiao nced aside only to see Feng Yao loungingzily on a sofa crafted from snowkes, her enticing curves reminiscent of a leopard-patterned python, tempting wild thoughts.

    Yun Xiao was torn betweenughter and tears. She imed to be diligent, but that onlysted half the night. The other half, she spent lying down. Whether she aplished any cultivation, he couldn''t tell.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Hey, there''s a fire!!" Yun Xiao pped her on the backside sharply.

    "Huh, Whu-what!? Fire, where!?" Feng Yao jumped three feet into the air, like a python ascending to heaven.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Yun Xiao hadn''t expected such a reaction and had to catch her in a sweeping embrace.

    This embrace was a full one.

    Such a broad embrace was a first for them.

    "What are you doing?" Feng Yao demanded, her eyebrows raised but her arms still wrapped around his neck.

    "Waking you up to test your Corona talent," Yun Xiao said as he carried her outside.

    She hesitated to leave his hold, but the thought of Xue Yuening waiting outside scared her into action.

    "You''re acting pretty daring for a ve. Aren''t you afraid they''ll find out and purify you of all desires?"

    "No worries, my desires are endless," Yun Xiao replied.

    "..." Feng Yao stared at him, speechless.

 Chapter 800: Two Valkyrie Queens!

    Feng Yao paid him no mind, hastily arranging her attire before heading out.

    Yun Xiao watched her leave, then returned to his seat.

    He had plundered many celestial pills anda Supreme Immortal Jades from the Jade Moon Divine Pce, feeding them all at once to Blue Star and Red Moon.

    The night passed, and brand-new Tri Heaven Sariras along with Origin Orbs were refined.

    After pondering the sword techniques, Yun Xiao resumed his cultivation, his power surging as he ascended rapidly.

    At the same time, Yun Xiao tapped into his Mortal Dust Devil Seed, The Mortal Dust Devil Blood flowed through Feng Yao''s eyes, allowing him to see everything she saw.

    The moment was critical; she was to test her Corona talent again, and Yun Xiao could not afford to be negligent.

    Should any mishap ur, he would be there to save her!

    Feeling the stir of Mortal Dust Devil blood within, Feng Yao knew he hade."Why so nervous? You care that much about me?" she asked.

    "Indeed, raising a piggy is no small feat," Yun Xiao replied.

    "You call me a pig, and im you''re my parent. That means you''re also a pig, a greasy middle-aged one at that," Feng Yao scoffed.

    "Your tongue is getting even sharper," he remarked.

    With those eyes, Yun Xiao gazed ahead.

    Before them loomed an impossibly majestic snow mountain, at least three times taller than Thousand Snow Moon Peak!

    Atop that mountain, a serpentine pce of snow-white stood out.

    "The Celestial Snow Pce."

    Undoubtedly, this was the core of the Harmony Divine Pce''s Snow Lineage.

    "Today, many pinnacle beings from the Snow Lineage gather here for you, but you don''t need to be nervous. Whatever the oue, your master will bear the responsibility. Just let me do most of the talking," Xue Yuening turned around and reminded Feng Gao.

    "Master, what do you mean by bearing responsibility? Are you expecting something to happen?" Feng Yao said earnestly.

    Xue Yuening shook her head with a gentle smile. "My girl, when the arrow is on the bow, it must be released. If you possess a talent that defies this world, and I fail to secure the rightful conditions for you, then it is my dereliction."

    "Okay." Feng Yao nodded, then whispered, "Even if I remain at seven stars, would anyone me you?"

    "That''s not important," Xue Yuening said with a gentle smile.

    Though she didn''t delve into the details, Feng Yao wasn''t naive; she understood that using the true Harmony Crown brought considerable pressure on Xue Yuening.

    This all-female celestial sect was harsh in its hierarchical power structure.

    With the advice given, Xue Yuening personally took her disciple by the hand and stepped into the Celestial Snow Pce.

    Upon entering, Feng Yao felt an immense avnche-like pressure.

    All eyes fell upon her as she entered.

    "Truly a devil, and a notorious Yin Devil at that."

    "Xue Yuening, you''re truly beguiled by devils."

    These were the first murmurs Feng Yao caught as she stepped into the Celestial Snow Pce.

    The firstment was a scornful jab at her race, a high and mighty sneer at her integrity.

    The second was a rejection of her master, Xue Yuening.

    Feng Yao was brash as a young calf, unafraid of tigers and fond of defiance. She was not one to back down due to intimidation.

    Xue Yuening bowed her head upon entering the Celestial Snow Pce. She nced at Feng Yao, hoping her disciple would follow suit.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, Feng Yao lifted her head and stood tall, meeting every gaze directly. Her eyes swept over the assembly!

    Inside the Celestial Snow Pce were 100 figures! At the lowest tier, each Valkyrie was at least of the same rank as Xue Yuening.

    Further up, on a higher step, sat ten Valkyrie Princesses, each adorned with more splendid garments and radiant Coronas, exuding an aura of greater nobility and power.

    Without a doubt, these ten were in the Sixth Baptism Realm!

    These ten Valkyrie Princesses were enshrouded in clouds, forming a celestial court of their own.

    They seemed like behemoths on the clouds, delicate yet each possessing an overwhelming presence, especially with their icy demeanors and glowing Coronas adding to the oppressive atmosphere.

    However, these ten were not the highest nor the most revered present today!

    Above them, there was yet another tier!

    On that tier, two figures sat!

    Feng Yao noted immediately that they possessed the lower bodies of white serpents.

    Their upper halves were regal and majestic, like sovereigns of ice and snow,manding the elements, reigning supreme over 1,000,000 Immortals!

    "Quickly pay respects to the two Valkyrie Queens, ten Valkyrie Princesses, and all the Valkyries," Xue Yuening instructed.

    Yun Xiao understood then the hierarchy of the Harmony Divine Pce! It was Valkyries, Valkyrie Princesses, Valkyrie Queens, and Divas!

    The Divas were the ultimate rulers.

    Beneath them, the two Valkyrie Princess before Feng Yao stood as paragons among countless Immortals.

    Just their presence made even Xue Yuening tremble inwardly, though she came here to advocate today.

    "Pay respects?" Feng Yao thought to dere that a man''s knees bear only gold, but then she remembered she was no man, and so she chose to endure this one time.

    Now, as a 7-Star Valkyrie Queen talent, she faced two true Valkyrie Queens.

    How could she not bow, when her future was their present?

    She bowed gracefully. But no sooner had she finished than a mocking voice sounded beside her.

    "Please consider carefully, Valkyrie Queens. This is a Yin Devil. Although born in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, she might not be pure."

    Feng Yao looked toward the speaker, a ck-robed Valkyrie named Chen Yue.

    "Don''t cause trouble, Chen Yue. I''ve confirmed that Feng Yao is pure," Xue Yuening said, seemingly anticipating interference.

    Chen Yue scoffed coldly, "What does your confirmation count for? After all, you''ve transgressed before. The reason you bear no children, you know best."

    The air in the Celestial Snow Pce turned icy cold.

    Xue Yuening bowed her head, her face pained, fists clenched, eyes reddening.

    "Valkyrie Queens, I request to personally verify her purity, to prevent the Harmony Crown from being tainted by impurity," Chen Yue said as she stood.

    The two serpent-bodied Valkyrie Queens, lofty and elevated, looked down at Feng Yao.

    One was Cang Xue, delicate and gentle like a saintly snow goddess, while the other, Wu Shang, had short hair and a more androgynous,manding aura.

    Against these two, Chen Yue''s pettiness was stark.

    "Such an act is demeaning. Please consider the psychological growth of the younger generation," Xue Yuening pleaded.

    The Valkyrie Queens exchanged a nce.

    Cang Xue then said, "Regarding the Harmony Crown, it is prudent to be cautious."

    "Yes!" Chen Yue smiled triumphantly.

    Xue Yuening could only grip Feng Yao''s hand, urging her to endure.

    "Feng Yao, I do this for your good, to give you a chance to silence the rumors. Don''t hold this against me," Chen Yue said with a wistful smile.

    Feng Yaoughed. "You, a mere Valkyrie, dare to offend me with the talent of a 7-Star Valkyrie Queen, showing you are but another''s mouthpiece. Why should I resent you? It''s those behind you, propping you up to y the viin, whom I truly disdain."

    The Celestial Snow Pce buzzed with life at Feng Yao''s bold promation.

    The elders found it peculiarly striking! Her words seemed both shrewd and foolish, leaving the assembly in disarray.

    She was called smart for piercing through Chen Yue''s fa?ade as a mere mouthpiece. And foolish, for voicing such suspicions outright. Was this something to be said aloud?

    Xue Yuening was dumbstruck.

    Feng Yao, unencumbered by fear, pointed at Chen Yue and challenged, "Come on then, I''m not afraid of you. How do you want to test me? With your fingers?"

    Such brashness from a disciple towards an elder was umon.

    Chen Yue had never encountered such defiance! Her authority, momentarily, seemed diminished.

    "Test me!" Feng Yao pressed.

    Chen Yue stared at the young girl. After a long pause, sheughed again.

    "What''s funny? Are you thinking that with my temper and wits, I''ll never make it to Valkyrie Queen, that I¡¯d die along the way?" Feng Yao asked, half-mocking.

    Chen Yue''s smile vanished, leaving her speechless.

    This segment was losing its edge.

    Approaching, she took a celestial instrument, scanned Feng Yao with it, and then dered, "Reporting to the Valkyrie Queens, her purity is confirmed."

    "Is that all? I thought you might actually make mefortable for a moment," Feng Yao scoffed.

    Chen Yue was left wordless.

    Xue Yuening, wishing to move past this turbulence, respectfully asked, "Valkyrie Queens, may we begin?"

    Wu Shang remained silent, while Cang Xue, whose expression had been unchanging, spoke softly, "Proceed. First, a ceremonial bath, then the cleansing ritual, and I will summon the crown."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Is that all? I thought you might actually make mefortable for a moment," Feng Yao scoffed.</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 801: A Crowning to Silence Doubters!

    ¡°A bath and cleansing rituals, what''s all this fuss about?¡±

    The War Princess was impatient, eager to rush through the proceedings. Her temper was quick, and she loathed constraints. Yet, ironically, the Harmony Divine Pce was a ce rife with rules and strictures.

    This was only supposed to be a test of talent! The disruption caused by Chen Yue was aggravating enough, but the multitude of procedures was maddening.

    ¡°Master, can¡¯t you just ce it directly on my head like we did during the selection?¡± Feng Yao asked softly to Xue Yuening.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be absurd. The Harmony Crown is a sacred and hallowed artifact. Those below the rank of Valkyrie Queens must cleanse their celestial bodies to remove any impurities before they can touch it.¡± Xue Yuening smiled wryly.

    ¡°So be it!¡±

    If the rules were unchangeable, Feng Yao would have to ept them.

    ¡°Follow me.¡± Xue Yuening led the way, head bowed, while Feng Yao looked around curiously.

    Her behavior immediately caused many a Valkyrie and Valkyrie Princess to frown.¡°Devils will be devils, savage and untaught, ignorant of decorum.¡±

    ¡°What a waste of a 7-Star Valkyrie Queen talent¡­¡±

    They thought to themselves how much better it would be if they or their daughters possessed such innate celestial brilliance. Their murmurs weren¡¯t hidden. But for Feng Yao, it was hard to discern who said what.

    ¡°With such a temperament, where does Xue Yuening find the confidence to stake her future on this girl, so sure of her greater talent?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? But this time, she¡¯s definitely done for.¡±

    ¡°Such folly at her age.¡±

    These scattered words, though sparse, echoed piercingly within the Celestial Snow Pce.

    Feng Yao was utterly annoyed. Unable to pinpoint the speakers, she wished she could just walk up and p each one, sharing out her rage evenly among them.

    "Yao Yao, this way."

    By then, Xue Yuening had already stopped.

    Feng Yao looked ahead where she pointed, and saw on the side of the Celestial Snow Pce, a pool of milky white water that emitted a scent of cream, clearly intended for purification.

    And yet, the eyes of all the powerful figures in the hall still shone brightly upon her! It felt likeyers uponyers of icy hell!

    "Disrobe and enter the sacred pool," Xue Yuening instructed.

    Feng Yao paused. "Disrobe?"

    "Of course, how else to perform the bathing ritual?" Xue Yuening nodded.

    "All these people..." Feng Yao grew increasingly ufortable.

    Fortunately, all present were <em>pure</em> women. Annoyed as she was, she bore it!

    "You want to look, do you? Die of envy!" she thought viciously. In quick session, she stripped off her jacket and leather skirt, standing there bare.

    As her garments fell, her figure, which could be described as explosively perfect, was exposed for all to see. Her curves and proportions reached the physical peak of human capacity, at the very pinnacle of explosiveness. Any more, and it might start to look disproportionate.

    Only sufficient height could carry such perfect curves!

    Internally irked, Feng Yao deliberately turned a few circles to give the haughty old celestial women a clear view.

    Her disy certainly elicited some low gasps of astonishment and whispered discussions.

    The gazes fixated on her certainly shifted.

    But what irked the War Princess even more was that these looks held no envy or jealousy... but were tinged with deeper scorn!

    "A body like a cheap ything, a devil''s tainted blood. No matter how high her talent, how can she be worthy of wearing the sacred artifact?"

    "Shouldn''t the two Valkyrie Queens reconsider?"

    "It seems this Yin Devil is somewhat pleased with herself; clearly, she doesn¡¯t understand that in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, this pride in her advantage is the most useless skill, only adding to her shame."

    These merciless murmurs once again assaulted her ears, leaving the War Princess even more speechless. Who exactly was normal, and who was the deviant?

    She knew, they disdained her even more now! Clearly, they were waiting to mock her and her master.

    "Hah¡­" Xue Yuening sighed softly, saying to Feng Yao, "Child, it is your master who has burdened you, drawing envy upon you."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Don''t think that way. Only the mediocre escape envy. If these elders envy me, it shows they admire me deep down!"

    Feng Yao didn''t lower her voice, ensuring those who were willing could hear. Her words naturally provoked some worldly, mockingughter.

    "Idiots!" Feng Yao could no longer stand these women. Though she was a woman herself, she feltpelled toin. These women together were no different than pecking hens!

    Her straightforward and blunt nature could not stand the petty, scheming, cold, clique-forming, isting atmosphere.

    Without waiting for Xue Yuening¡¯smand, she jumped directly into the sacred pool.

    <em>SPLASH! </em>The water of the sacred pool sshed, ripples spreading, and white droplets exploded into mist... showcasing her substantial presence.

    The water even overflowed, spilling out into the hall, the scent of cream filling the air.

    "Absurd!"

    "Uncultured!"

    "Reckless!"

    ¡­

    Echoes of disapproval filled the Celestial Snow Pce. Yet, no one moved to pull Feng Yao out.

    Seeing some displeasure, she felt even more pleased and began to swim in the Sacred Pool.

    Her fair skin merged with the white waters of the sacred pool; her waist and long legs moved smoothly through the water, bing even more enticing.

    "Quite beautiful." Suddenly, a man''s voice spoke up.

    Feng Yao jumped in surprise! It took a moment for her to realize that the voice hade from her own heart.

    ¡°What did you see¡­?¡± Feng Yao asked nervously.

    ¡°Your eyes are my eyes. Whatever you see, I see,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    Feng Yao was startled, and involuntarily nced downwards¡­

    ¡°Ah!¡± She quickly shut her eyes.

    ¡°Stop pretending to be pure. My blood flows through your whole body. What difference does it make if you look or not?¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°It does make a difference!¡± She covered her eyes, while others were utterly clueless about her sudden frenzy.

    At that moment, the Harmony Crown finally arrived!

    The ceiling of the Celestial Snow Pce burst open, and above the sky appeared a dazzling crown entwined by two serpents, adorned with nine chilly, shimmering gems, its brilliance obscuring everyone¡¯s faces!

    ¡°Yao Yao!¡± Xue Yuening called out to Feng Yao.

    Feng Yao couldn¡¯t wait any longer; she sprang from the Sacred Pool.

    <em>SPLASH! </em>Water cascaded down her creamy curves, falling back into the pool.

    Her eyes burned fiercely as she looked up at the Harmony Crown, her gaze unwavering and determined, devoid of reverence but full of conquest!

    Such a look was considered highly disrespectful in the Harmony Divine Pce!

    ¡°Utterly disgraceful!¡± Chen Yue scoffed coldly, casting a lingering nce at Xue Yuening, as if foreseeing her fate.

    In the Celestial Snow Pce, all eyes once again converged on Feng Yao and the Harmony Crown.

    The crown seemed to lock onto her, descending from above.

    She did not wait but rose like a conqueror, arms spread wide, as if to be crowned emperor of all!

    The spectacle was breathtaking!

    Feng Yao couldn¡¯t wait another moment. ¡°Yun Xiao is right, no need for caution. If you want to be fierce, go all the way. Silence those who scorn you with your might. After all, I¡¯m notcking the means!¡±

    With that thought, a full smile spread across Feng Yao¡¯s face, her actions resolute. She soared up and reached for the Harmony Crown before it could descend on its own.

    ¡°No! Let the crown descend¡­¡± Xue Yuening¡¯s face changed as she shouted urgently.

    However, her warning came toote.

    Amidst the frowning crowd, Feng Yao grabbed the true Harmony Crown as if it were just an ordinary hat and firmly ced it on her head.

    ¡°Daring to disrespect the crown, this ignorant devil girl really is¡­¡± Chen Yue started to call her a fool.

    But at that moment, the Harmony Crown transformed, perfectly fitting her head as the <em>twin serpents </em>seemed toe alive.

    <em>POP! POP! POP¡­! </em>Nine resonant sounds echoed.

    With each echo, a blinding column of light shot from the Harmony Crown, piercing the sky and reaching the heavens!

    The brilliance was overwhelming!

    Even through the clouds, standing afar, the pirs of light in the Celestial Snow Pce were vividly visible.

    In just an instant, nine colorful beams lit the sky over 100,000 snow-capped mountains, turning the endless white snow below into a sea of vibrant colors!

    The scene was explosively magnificent.

    ¡°Ah¡­!¡±

    Below Feng Yao, Xue Yuening was engulfed in the colorful light, her expression obscured.

    ¡°Nine¡­¡± This number alone filled Xue Yuening¡¯s mind, leaving no room for any other thought.

 Chapter 802: Keep Slapping, Dont Stop!

    To Xue Yuening''s knowledge, it should take the true Harmony Crown at least nine breaths to detect a 9-Star talent!

    Why then, did it happen in an instant?

    She was so wildly overjoyed that she hardly had the mind to untangle this mystery.

    "Nine stars! Nine stars! The makings of a Boundless Immortal!" Xue Yuening''s voice was hoarse, especially grating amid the chaos of the Celestial Snow Pce.

    The faces of the hundreds of Valkyries and Valkyrie Princesses, even the two Valkyrie Queens, were soon swallowed up by the brilliance of the Harmony Crown, their expressions unseen, only a profound silence remained, utter and deathly.

    Then, Feng Yao herself broke this silence.

    She reached out, swiftly took off the Harmony Crown, and spun it on her finger.

    With its removal, the light of the crown vanished instantly, and the Celestial Snow Pce returned to its original state.

    Everything seemed different than just moments before!Looking around, the faces of the hundreds lined up were frozen, as if encased in ice, fixated on Feng Yao, not even their eyshes stirred.

    This awkward silencested for ten full breaths!

    During those ten breaths of silence, Feng Yao was amused, while the old celestial women across from her seemed to have endured eons of agony.

    Then, just as Chen Yue was about to speak¡­ Feng Yao pointed at her and asked, "Were you about to say that I measured the time too shortly?"

    No sooner had she spoken than she yfully swung the Harmony Crown back onto her head.

    In an instant, nine majestic pirs of light shed again across the skies of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    Bathed in that divine light, Feng Yao''s expression was chilling, her beauty unparalleled!

    Under the glow of these nine-colored divine beams, her cleansed and pristine form appeared even more sacred and proud, dazzling beyondpare!

    "Wow!"

    The Harmony Crown did not glow for long before Feng Yao took it off again.

    The world-shaking brilliance faded once again.

    The Celestial Snow Pce fell silent once more, the recently loosened expressions froze again.

    A long moment passed in silence.

    ¡°Still not convinced? Here, I''ll do it again.¡± Feng Yao chuckled softly and put the crown back on.

    The nine-colored pirs of light burst forth anew.

    ¡°Wow!¡±

    She continued to take it off and put it back on. Again and again, each sh of the nine celestial lights was like a resounding p across the faces of the schemers, fierce as if it were a shoe repeatedly striking.

    By the end, their faces were terribly swollen!

    The nine-colored light beams piercing the snowy skies attracted countless onlookers.

    Every disciple and celestial maiden within the snowy realm, unless shut away in seclusion, came out to gaze excitedly at the spectacle, uttering cries of amazement.

    It was as if the Harmony Divine Pce itself had triggered an earthquake!

    Inside the Celestial Snow Pce, their hearts must have felt it too, shaken repeatedly.

    Finally, Feng Yao held the Harmony Crown before her, her beautiful eyes sparkling as she faced the elders of the pce and asked, ¡°Do you need me to wear it again to confirm? If you''re still doubting me, suggest any method you prefer for wearing it, and I''ll dly oblige.¡±

    After she spoke, silence fell over the Celestial Snow Pce, unbroken for a long stretch.

    People like Chen Yue, and those Valkyries and Valkyrie Princesses who had mocked her, still wore frozen expressions, tinged with a hint of blue from the prolonged cold.

    Even the two Valkyrie Queens were caught in a moment of silence, waves of turmoil undoubtedly crashing in their minds.

    This was especially true for Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue!! She had dominated the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm her whole life, seldom feeling fear. Yet, at this moment, under Feng Yao''s questioning, her heart quivered fiercely!

    Before, Feng Yao¡¯s limit was her own present self. What was there to fear? Of course, nothing. But now, it was different.

    This girl¡¯s limit was the miracle she had always dreamt of!

    She knew better than anyone what a 9-Star Boundless Immortal talent meant.

    The three beings above her had all tested as 8-Star talents in the past, eventually all going on to be Divas. Now, they struggled bitterly to take the next step and be Boundless Immortals.

    "Besides the two founders of the Harmony Divine Pce, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm has not seen another with the 9-Star Boundless Immortal talent¡­¡±

    These were the words spoken by Chen Yue.

    After speaking, she gazed deeply at the Harmony Crown.

    That sacred relic left by the founders, transformed from their very essence, solidified the authority of Feng Yao¡¯s talent!

    What did this mean?

    Chen Yue could not stay still!

    Suddenly, she descended from her throne, strode quickly to Feng Yao, and unexpectedly knelt before her, chuckling sheepishly, ¡°I never imagined you possessed a 9-Star talent. I was blind before, I apologize! Please, do not hold this against me,mand me anytime you need something!¡±

    Her heart was in a flurry, and her words came out jumbled.

    But through her actions, Feng Yao could roughly gauge the impact of her talents being revealed.

    ¡°Sister Ning!¡± Chen Yue quickly knelt fully, pleading to the still dazed Xue Yuening, ¡°I beg you, be generous and don¡¯t judge me harshly, a useless woman like me. For old times'' sake, please give your sister a chance!¡±

    After saying this, she actually kowtowed towards Feng Yao and Xue Yuening.

    At this moment, surprisingly, no one found her frantic pleading amiss.

    Indeed, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was brutally pragmatic!

    ¡°Fine. I indeed hold no grudges,¡± Feng Yao said.

    Chen Yue¡¯s face lit up with joy.

    ¡°Because I also like to settle scores immediately,¡± Feng Yao added.

    Chen Yue froze, a chill running through her.

    ¡°Disasteres from the mouth. If you can¡¯t control your tongue, then reward yourself with 100 ps. Don¡¯t stop until your teethe out,¡± Feng Yao said with a coldugh.

    Chen Yue''s face wrinkled in dismay. To plead and p oneself in front of a junior was indeed a grievous affair.

    But the thought that this woman might be a Boundless Immortal sent a shiver through her entire being, her heart and lungs trembling.

    The deeper she thought, the more she realized the terror of a Boundless Immortal.

    "Yes! This is what I deserve!" Chen Yue could only be thankful that Feng Yao was straightforward and not given to underhanded tactics; she meant it when she said 100 ps¡ªafter that, all would indeed be well.

    <em>SLAP! SLAP! SLAP! </em>There in the Celestial Snow Pce, she truly began, and the ps were loud, bruising her skin¡ªwhat a spectacle it was.

    "Keep pping!" Valkyrie Queen Cang Xuemanded coldly, seemingly venting some frustrations on Chen Yue.

    In that instant, Chen Yue became a scapegoat abused from both sides.

    Yet, Cang Xue herself was unaware that her impatient remark had inadvertently revealed her own state of mind...

    It was clear who stood behind Chen Yue at the highest level!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Boundless Immortal!" Valkyrie Queen Wu Shang, who''d been silent up until now, suddenly stood up! Her deration made her stance clear as she descended from her high seat!

    As she came down, the ten Valkyrie Princesses and the Valkyries below could hardly dy, each approaching Feng Yao with either excitement or aplex expression.

    Wu Shang looked intensely at Feng Yao, dering, ¡°The Harmony Crown is the guide of the founders. Feng Yao, you are a 9-Star talent, unmatched through the ages! You are the treasure of the Harmony Divine Pce, and indeed, the fortune of our Snow Lineage!¡±

    With these words from Wu Shang, everything was set in stone.

    The gazes of the Valkyries and Valkyrie Princesses finally shifted to excitement and admiration, jealousy no longer dared to surface.

    "Is that so? May I then put on some clothes?" Feng Yao asked proudly.

    Wu Shang smiled gently, "Of course, let me assist you."

    She personally came forward to help Feng Yao, who was no fool and understood that Wu Shang had allowed Xue Yuening to use the Harmony Crown.

    All Valkyries and Valkyrie Princesses watched as Wu Shang personally adjusted Feng Yao''s attire, their hearts churning wildly.

    Even Xue Yuening found herself surrounded by well-wishers. Those who had once looked down upon her, now came forward to offer congrattions.

    Having taken Feng Yao as a disciple in advance and fought for her chance at the Harmony Crown, how could Feng Yao let her down after such wholehearted devotion?

    And there sat Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue, the only one still seated on her throne...

    For a time, the Celestial Snow Pce was a realm of both ice and fire, a dichotomy.

    Flying talismans flew from the Celestial Snow Pce, the earth-shattering news of the birth of a 9-Star talent sweeping through the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm...

    "Yun Xiao was right!"

    Basking in it all, the War Princess felt exhratingly triumphant. Why be meek when one could soar to the heavens?

    The path ahead would only get smoother!

    With the birth of a 9-Star talent, the entire Celestial Snow Pce transformed, the once cold realm now brimming with joy.

    Feng Yao reveled in it all! Unnoticed by all, the two serpents on the Harmony Crown she held began to grow dragon horns and scales, slowly transforming into dragons...

    Others used the Harmony Crown to measure their talent. She had changed the Harmony Crown!

    Just then, a figure suddenly appeared in the sky above.

    This figure, devastatingly beautiful, with flowing white hair and ruby pink eyes, was holy and pure, a pink and white serpent''s tail dancing in the sky!

    Her pink eyes looked towards Feng Yao.

    And within Feng Yao''s heart, Yun Xiao immediately recognized this woman¡­

    "The Diva has arrived!"

    "All hail the Diva!"

    At that moment, everyone in the Celestial Snow Pce bowed in reverence.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 803: All Women Are Bloodhounds!

    "Diva?" The War Princess, encircled by the crowd, gazed upwards into the heavens.

    Above, pink snowkes danced in the sky, and amidst them, a woman with luminescent, snowy skin stood towering, her Corona shining upon her head, exuding an air of superiority.

    Her beauty and divine presence were unmatched by anyone Feng Yao had ever encountered in the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "How beautiful¡­" Feng Yao herself, forged from the Mortal Dust Devil Blood into a captivating devil, was naturally stunning. Yet, upon witnessing this otherworldly, white-haired and pink-eyed Diva, she couldn¡¯t help but marvel.

    Perhaps this was a kindred spirit. To her, the beauty of this revered being was pure and otherworldly, like Yun Xiao himself¡ªdetached and pristine as freshly fallen snow.

    In that moment, including the two snake-tailed Valkyrie Queens, all the elders bowed in respect to this Diva.

    Feng Yao herself was lost in the Diva¡¯s beauty, momentarily transfixed.

    "Don''t you think she''s beautiful?" she whispered to Yun Xiao within her heart.

    "Fair, but not as much as you," Yun Xiao replied."You don''t mean that." Feng Yaoughed.

    "You think too much; I truly don¡¯t fancy those older than me. Who knows, she might be old enough to be my grandmother," Yun Xiao said.

    "Really, you think you''d get to choose? Don¡¯t be a fool pining for the unattainable; she is one of the rulers of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, far beyond your reach even with a thousand hands," Feng Yao scoffed.

    Yun Xiao chose to remain silent. He couldn¡¯t very well tell Feng Yao that he had indeed ventured far with this Diva.

    As they shared these secret murmurs, the Diva¡¯s eyes had already locked onto Feng Yao.

    Her eyes gleamed strangely, her snowy dress fluttering as she descended gracefully from the heavens.

    The two Valkyrie Queens and the Valkyries stepped aside, making room for the Diva to drift before Feng Yao.

    When her snake tail transformed into a pair of jade legs, touching the ground, even the earth beneath her feet shimmered with light.

    She was indeed a tall woman, slightly taller than Moon Fairy, but before Feng Yao, she seemed no taller than a young girl.

    Yet, in terms of aura, she was far more imposing than Feng Yao at that moment.

    "What''s your name?" she asked.

    Feng Yao was taken aback; the voice of the Diva was unexpectedly soft, sweetly cloying, almost unsettling. Indeed, she spoke with the deferential tone of a senior addressing a junior.

    "My name is Feng Yao," the War Princess replied, slightly bowing her head before the exquisitely ethereal snow goddess.

    "Good. You wille live at my Snow Diva Ruins. I will personally guide you." The divine voice was tender, clearly valuing Feng Yao''s exceptional talents.

    As she spoke these words, some faces around them paled even further.

    This included Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue, who slightly furrowed her brow in a faint expression of regret.

    With Feng Yao''s talents acknowledged by the Diva, it was clear that within their realm, not even a Valkyrie Queen could afford to offend this 9-Star prodigy.

    "Have you already taken Xue Yuening as your master?" the Diva inquired further.

    Upon hearing this, Xue Yuening quickly knelt, respectfully saying, "Diva, my humble capabilities merely serve as a guide for Feng Yao. Now that she has proven herself as an Immortal with boundless potential, I am deeply honored. My abilities are too modest to guide such a prodigy. So please, take her under your wing as her true mentor."

    The Diva smiled and shook her head. "The bond between a master and a disciple is fated. You advocated for her, proving yourself by requesting the Harmony Crown on her behalf. You should continue this bond. Still, I will take full responsibility for Feng Yao¡¯s growth on her path as an Immortal. Rest assured, she is destined for greatness and does not need my patronage to shine."

    Xue Yuening dared not persist, merely nodding in agreement, her eyes brimming with tears.

    "Thank you, master," Feng Yao said, helping Xue Yuening to her feet at the Diva''s prompting.

    Then the Diva addressed the gathered crowd, "For uncovering a talent of boundless potential, Xue Yuening is rewarded with the privilege to train at the Harmony Divine Pool and to choose an Upper Swallowing Heaven grade celestial weapon of her liking."

    With these words, envy filled the eyes of the many women of the Celestial Snow Pce.

    Even those who felt jealousy dared not show it at that moment. It was like this especially for Chen Yue, who had previously opposed and oppressed Xue Yuening; she now hid in a corner, wishing she could disappear, letting everyone forget her presence.

    "Diva! I am unworthy of such honor..." Xue Yuening, tears welling in her eyes, began to kneel again.

    But this time, Feng Yao held her back.

    "This is your due, no need for modesty. ept it," the Diva stated firmly.

    "Yes! Thank you, Diva..." Xue Yuening gripped Feng Yao''s hand tightly, overwhelmed with emotion.

    Her gratitude was not for the rewards, but for truly admiring Feng Yao''s character, unwilling to see her talents buried.

    Now, the good were rewarded, and she was naturallyforted.

    "Yao Yao,e with me."

    The Diva of the Snow Lineage spoke as she effortlessly gathered the Harmony Crown.

    She did not linger over the crown but turned, ready to ascend.

    The Valkyries all respectfully bid her farewell, a testament to her supreme divine authority in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    She was truly a force capable ofying waste to millions with a single wrathful re!

    "Master, I will visit you when I have time," Feng Yao hastily said to Xue Yuening.

    "Follow the Diva closely, remember to show respect, and don''t act recklessly," Xue Yuening instructed.

    "Yes!"

    "This afternoon is the selection for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, remember that," Xue Yuening added.

    "Yes!" Feng Yao smiled at her. Though their time together was brief, Xue Yuening indeed reminded her of her own mother, stirring a sense of longing within her.

    With these thoughts, she soared into the sky, following closely beside the Diva of the Snow Lineage.

    A fragrance like that of plum blossoms in fresh snow wafted from the delicate body of this snow goddess next to her¡ªrefreshing and delightful.

    Feng Yao found herself quite fond of the scent.

    The Diva, too, nced at Feng Yao, perhaps also sensing the provocative scent that could stir the blood of others from her.

    One was subtle, the other overt, but both were fundamentally enticing.

    However, the Diva suddenly halted midair, her pink eyes intensely fixed on Feng Yao''s breastte.

    Her usually gentle expression tightened suddenly, a cold, uncontroble aura surged, instantly ensnaring Feng Yao!

    Feng Yao felt a suffocating, deadly pressure in an instant!

    "Yun Xiao, she wants to kill me!"

    Her mind tensed, and she instinctively cried out to the heart within her.

    "No." Yun Xiao''s simple word eased her racing heart.

    Feng Yao wasn¡¯t Yun Xiao, who could rely on the protection of Red Moon and Blue Star; this Diva stood even above Valkyrie Queens, and if she chose to strike, Feng Yao would perish in an instant!

    Who would wish for death when life was so thrilling?

    Feng Yao rxed slightly, but she couldn''t fathom why the Diva''s demeanor had shifted so drastically toward her.

    Suddenly, the Diva closed in on Feng Yao. Her Eight Baptism Realm power, with its eight types of cmities, clung to Feng Yao like eight arms, preventing even a single eysh from fluttering without permission.

    She stared intently at Feng Yao! Then, she sniffed around Feng Yao''s breastte and skirt.

    "What in the world is she trying to do? It¡¯s disturbing¡­" Feng Yao felt a surge of panic and an urge to cry.

    Could it be that the Diva preferred women?

    "Where do you reside?" the Diva demanded, her voice cold as she scrutinized Feng Yao.

    Feng Yao realized she could finally speak. ¡°Diva, I was living in the Carefree Pce in the Thousand Snow Moon Peak, but what seems to be the problem?¡±n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Do you have a ve?!" The Diva suddenly seized Feng Yao''s arm, her pink eyes swirling with a tempest of snow.

    "Is it forbidden to have a ve?" Feng Yao responded, utterly bewildered.

    Moreover, how did she deduce that Feng Yao had a ve?

    From sniffing the breastte and skirt... well, it turned out Yun Xiao''s hands had indeed been quite restless.

    As Feng Yao retorted, the Diva bit her lip, her eyes flooding with a frigid tide of snow.

    With a hum, she gripped Feng Yao''s arm tightly and dragged her flying towards the snowy mountains.

    A pale pink snowlight zed with terrifying speed toward the direction of the Carefree Pce.

    Feng Yao was utterly disoriented by the blizzard! What was going on?

    "Damn, her nose is too keen!" Yun Xiao, who had been pondering swordsmanship, leapt from the ground.

    It seemed the Diva was deeply concerned about that day''s events. Wasn''t it enough that she''d already detained millions of ves? Now she wasing directly to him?

    "To flee, or not to flee?" Yun Xiao¡¯s mind raced with these thoughts.

 Chapter 804: Divas Fury

    Yun Xiao knew he could still escape if he left now. But he quickly dismissed the idea!

    "If I flee now, I¡¯ll be a fugitive. Once Feng Yao secures her departure slot, I won¡¯t be able to leave this godforsaken ce with her!"

    With that thought, Yun Xiao could only grit his teeth.

    "I''ll just have to tough it out and try!"

    So, he acted as if nothing were amiss, waiting within the Carefree Pce. He believed the Diva would never want the incident between them leaked...

    Her reaction was fierce. Instead of heading to the Snow Diva Ruins with Feng Yao, she stormed toward the Carefree Pce, sparking suspicion in Xue Yuening and the others.

    The two Valkyrie Queens, ten Valkyrie Princesses, and 100 Valkyries followed them. However, they were much slower than the Diva. So, it would be a while before they arrived.

    "It seems that incident has been on her mind the whole time. She¡¯s thrown caution to the wind in her search for me."

    As for why this was, remembering the blood, Yun Xiao fell silent.<em>BOOM! </em>In an instant, the Carefree Pce above him copsed into a shower of snow dust, scattering with a whoosh.

    Yun Xiao stood directly on the snowy ground.

    Suddenly, a pink prison fell from the sky, and serpentine columns rose from the ground like a birdcage,pletely trapping Yun Xiao!

    A terrifying pressure mmed down on him, causing his bones to tremble.

    He suddenly looked up! He could see a snow goddess standing before him, her long white hair and dress fluttering. Her eyes fixed intently on Yun Xiao, the pink light in her eyes like twin swords piercing his face!

    Yun Xiao was too recognizable!

    In that cave yesterday, as her spirit soared, she had etched his divine face into her memory.

    One could hardly imagine the rage she felt upon seeing Yun Xiao again...

    As for Feng Yao, who was dragged over forcibly, she wore a look of utter confusion. To her, these two were worlds apart!

    In this moment, poised on the brink of bloodshed, Yun Xiao held aloft a prepared projection talisman, dering, ¡°If I die today, within one day, the contents of this talisman will spread across the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.¡±

    As he spoke, the pale snake-like columns of the prison trembled wildly.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Diva of the Snow Lineage crashed to the ground like a beast, causing tremors through the floor of the Carefree Pce. Feng Yao, too, hit the ground, nearly stunned by the fall.

    ¡°I¡¯ve made many copies, not wishing to tarnish the Diva¡¯s reputation, only to save my own life,¡± Yun Xiao added.

    After he spoke, it was clear to see¡ªthe Diva¡¯s face nearly split with rage, steam rising from her head, a testament to her fury.

    She certainly wanted to tear Yun Xiao into shreds! She was one of the spiritual pirs of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the epitome of virtue in the hearts of all its female celestials! She stood at the pinnacle of this world!

    Yun Xiao was a mere insect in this realm¡­ Yet this insect had destroyed her entire life. If this matter were to spread, she would be trampled underfoot by all in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, her name mired forever!

    Yun Xiao himself did not fully grasp the devastating impact this would have on her.

    In truth, it would be a fate worse than death, unbearable even if she died ten times over! Her spiritual foundation and her resolve would all burst like bubbles, utterly extinguished.

    She wanted to kill Yun Xiao, to vanquish this inner demon. However, he had recorded it! Should she kill him and the recording spread throughout the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, then she could only imagine the fallout...

    Her heart was torn into dozens of pieces! A lofty figure like her had never been directly confronted by a <em>lesser being</em>.

    For a moment, rage and tears intertwined in her eyes.

    ¡°Besides, you asked for my help yesterday, and I saved your life. At the very least, I am your savior. You needn¡¯t kick down thedder now, must you?¡± Yun Xiao said.

    "I will not kill you." The Diva took a deep breath, swallowing all her rage and the destruction of her spiritual resolve, and said with a bitten lip, "Come with me, promise me you won¡¯t reveal anything, and I''ll grant you a life far better than that of a ve."

    From her words, it was evident that the threat of the projection talisman was indeed substantial.

    "Go with you, you mean to imprison me," Yun Xiao shook his head. "That won''t do!"

    The Diva replied coldly, "Even offering you a fraction of a life would be 10,000 times better than being a ve. Isn¡¯t it liberation and wealth you seek? I can give you all that!"

    "You are mistaken," Yun Xiao pointed at Feng Yao, saying, "Being her ve is the fortune of my three lifetimes. I can¡¯t bear to leave."

    His boldness to stay was first backed by the projection talisman, but even more crucial was his reliance on Feng Yao, especially now that she had be the 9-Star Boundless Immortal talent.

    She was the key link to gaining trust!

    "Hey...!" Feng Yao, confused from the beginning, interjected as the topic shifted to her, "What in the world did you two do?"

    For a moment, no one answered her; the Carefree Pce was as silent as the grave!

    Seeing this, Feng Yao, suspicion in her eyes, stepped forward briskly and demanded, "Let me see that projection talisman!"

    Her curiosity was killing her!

    "Nope! No way!" Yun Xiao quickly stashed it away, dodging her lunge, causing her to nearly stumble and fall.

    Yun Xiao just gave her a look, toozy to help her up. The rtionship between him and Feng Yao... and the scent on Feng Yao¡¯s breastte and skirt...

    The Diva¡¯s mood had slightly calmed, and something different could be sensed in her demeanor.

    ¡°Diva, don¡¯t misunderstand,¡± Feng Yao said as she dusted the snow from her clothes and stood up with an awkward smile. ¡°This ve of mine has been serving me for a long time. He¡¯s used to it.¡±

    "Can he be trusted?" the Diva suddenly asked Feng Yao, her tone grave and serious.

    Feng Yao chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. This kid may seem a little shameless, but he¡¯s got a good heart. He wouldn¡¯t even hurt an ant if he could help it. That¡¯s why I keep him around.¡±

    The Diva remained silent, though within her, a storm was brewing¡­

    Just then, the Valkyrie Queens, Valkyrie Princesses, and Valkyries who had been chasing from the Celestial Snow Pce finally arrived.

    ¡°Feng Yao!¡± The Diva pointed at Yun Xiao. She seemedpletelyposed now, the rage that had once surrounded her dissipated, and the snake-like columns that had once encaged Yun Xiao had vanished. She continued, ¡°Take him with you to the Snow Diva Ruins. Let him continue to serve you. No problem, right?¡±

    Seeing this, Feng Yao realized Yun Xiao had won.

    A wave of shock coursed through her. How in the world had this guy managed to get the Diva to back down?

    She cautiously asked, ¡°Is it really appropriate for a ve to enter the Snow Diva Ruins? That¡¯s a sacred ce of the Snow Lineage.¡±

    ¡°You are a 9-Star prodigy. If you insist on this, I have no choice but to grant your request," the Diva replied.

    "You¡¯re the one who wants to take him along!" Feng Yao muttered to herself, speechless. Seeing Yun Xiao had no objections, she could only say, ¡°Very well then. Thank you for allowing such an indulgent request.¡±

    It seemed they had cleared this hurdle. But Yun Xiao knew better. This was only a temporary reprieve.

    The madness in the Diva¡¯s eyes told him that she could never ept any of this.

    ¡°Yao Yao.¡±

    At that moment, Xue Yuening and the others descended to join them. She was utterly astonished to see the Carefree Pce destroyed.

    As for Feng Yao''s ve, she only had a vague impression of him.

    "What are you all doing here?" The Diva swept her gaze over her dismissively.

    "Uhhh, nothing..."

    The Valkyries looked at the shattered Carefree Pce, their faces clouded with confusion.

    Even with their wild imaginations, they could not fathom the truth.

    "Now that you''re here, help me take Yao Yao to the Snow Diva Ruins," the Diva instructed the two Valkyrie Queens. "Give her the Heaven Devourer Bow, and then take her to the Harmony Divine Pool for cultivation."

    "Yes, Diva!" the two Valkyrie Queens nodded.

    "Everyone disperse," the Divamanded.

    "Yes...!" The crowd nodded and dispersed sparsely.

    The two Valkyrie Queens, Cang Xue and Wu Shang, smiled at Feng Yao, waiting for her.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Go ahead," Yun Xiao whispered to her silently.

    "Is there a problem? What does she want to talk to you about in private?" Feng Yao asked curiously.

    "No problem now, don¡¯t worry about it," Yun Xiao replied.

    "What exactly did you do wrong?" Feng Yao asked curiously.

    "Just go," Yun Xiao said tersely.

    "Hmph! Stop ying around with every woman you meet. You''ll end up dead at one of their hands someday," Feng Yao huffed as she left.

    Xue Yuening also didn¡¯t linger and headed back to the main peak. Except for Feng Yao, no one even thought about the Diva being alone with Yun Xiao. In their eyes, he wasn''t even a person.

    After everyone had left, the Diva turned back to Yun Xiao and looked at him for a long while.

    Suddenly, she spoke, "Let''s make a deal."

    "What kind of deal?" Yun Xiao asked.

    She bit her lip, struggled for a long time, and finally, with all her strength and a trembling voice, said, "I forgive you, and you help me be a Boundless Immortal..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 805: Eight Times And All Grudges Will be Wiped Away!

    Yun Xiao stood, taken aback by such a request. Never had he imagined that she would ask for such a thing. He shook his head and said, ¡°You''re thinking too highly of me. I''m just a lowly ve among Immortals,cking the power to help you be a Boundless Immortal.¡±

    ¡°All you need to do is agree, and it will be possible,¡± the Diva insisted, her frosty eyes locking onto his, each word she uttered seemed a struggle from within.

    ¡°Fine, if you''re saying you''ll let bygones be bygones¡­ and it''s within my ability, it would be my honor to be of service,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ves were rare in the Snow Lineage. From this, he inferred she must be the kindest among the three Divas.

    Now, Feng Yao needed her power to rise and qualify for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. If the enmity between them could be resolved like this, he would desire nothing more.

    ¡°Hmm.¡±

    Even after receiving Yun Xiao''s agreement, the Diva remained a turmoil of emotions, continuously adjusting herself.

    ¡°And what exactly am I supposed to do to help you?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    The Diva took a deep breath and said, ¡°The cultivation method I practice is known as the Melting Snow Spirit Essence Technique. The closer one approaches the pinnacle of this technique, the purer one bes, and the more spiritual Yin energy grows within their spirit. Naturally, a certain level of Yin energy does not impact oneself too greatly, but¡­¡±n/?/vel/b//in dot c//omYun Xiao listened patiently, his face calm. He had thought that like the Ice Lineage Diva, the Snow Lineage Diva had also seen the Boundless Light within his Corona. Clearly, he was mistaken!

    She paused for a moment, then continued, ¡°I''m an exception. Among the Divas of the Snow Lineage, I possess the Melting Snow Spirit Essence Physique and am both a Martial and Inscription Immortal. This has led to my spiritual Yin energy being more than ten times greater than an ordinary person. It''s be a huge headache for me, especially as I''m trying to achieve boundlessness. The spiritual Yin energy stubbornly entwines my organs and meridians, bing my greatest obstacle."

    "So, you''re saying I can help you be a Boundless Immortal by removing your spiritual Yin energy?¡± Yun Xiao asked

    The Diva''s eyes shimmered softly as she nodded. ¡°Yes¡­¡±

    ¡°And how exactly do I do that?¡± Yun Xiao asked. Though, he already had his own suspicions.

    During theirst encounter, the very thing he helped expel was this spiritual Yin energy.

    As soon as the words left his mouth, a deathly silence fell over the snowy mountain.

    ¡°ve!¡±

    The Diva was indeed a sovereign, for even the most difficult of admissions could be made under the drive of her ambition to be a Boundless Immortal.

    Her face once again covered in a frosty rime, she stood like an ice behemoth, her gaze icy as she looked down at Yun Xiao.

    She said, ¡°Just like yesterday¡­ Do that seven more times, and you''llpletely rid me of a millennium of umted spiritual Yin energy. Should I sessfully achieve boundlessness, all grudges shall be erased in a single stroke.¡±

    Indeed, it was just as Yun Xiao had thought.

    "Seven times?"

    The mere thought gave him a headache.

    "To break through from the Eighth Baptism Realm and achieve boundlessness, one must utilize Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources to traverse the Eight Extremes Celestial Baptisms anew. The first of these was yesterday," the Diva exined.

    She had cast aside the initial shame and was now utterlymitted. From her perspective, it was quite straightforward. Firstly, what was done was done! Secondly, she had benefited from it.

    Most crucially, if she were to y him now and quell her inner demon, what if he managed to reveal the projection talismans? That would be an endless torment, a copse of the reverence she held as a Diva!

    It would be true destruction!

    At this point, why not use this ve to fulfill her greatest dream in this life...

    Once she achieved boundlessness, her path and everything else would take on new meaning. No matter what she lost, at least she would be stronger.

    At that time, Yun Xiao would be her only ck spot!

    Even more, once she ascended to be a Boundless Immortal, she would reign supreme in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, no longer needing to care about her reputation.

    Absolute power was the key! Her thoughts were crystal clear. For someone like her, this was a psychologically daunting step. And she had crossed it!

    Yun Xiao knew she hadn''t just thought of this method on the fly. Perhaps she had considered it yesterday, but at that time, the mad idea was obscured by shame and anger.

    Now, with Feng Yao caught in the middle, she had made her choice.

    This was a path of madness!

    "ve, can you do this?" the Diva asked, her supreme aura pressing down on Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao bowed respectfully and replied, "Of course, it''s but a trivial effort."

    Blue Star nearly choked hearing that! What a trivial effort indeed!

    "Very well, the remaining seven times will be spread over seven days, one per day..."

    Even for her, a being of such vast spirit, her cheeks flushed with a hint of red at these words.

    The other party was a mere ve, lowly as a cockroach! She was the paragon of chastity in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! How could they possibly...

    "Boundlessness! Boundlessness! I must be a¡­. Boundless Immortal"

    Only these words could suppress everything tumultuous in her heart.

    She reassured herself in the shadows, "It''s alright, he''s not actually a <em>true man</em>, so there''s no desecration, just a trivial effort..."

    Only through such repetitive self-convincing could shee to ept it.

    Upon hearing this, Yun Xiao, puzzled, asked, "Diva, fundamentally, there''s nothing wrong with your path of immortality. Shouldn''t finding true love make it easy for you to achieve boundlessness? Why must you..."

    "Silence!" The Snow Lineage Diva snapped back, her voice icy. "Don¡¯t speak such things in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, or there will be plenty eager to kill you, and I won''t be able to save you."

    She added, "All men are the mortal enemies of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, and thus my enemies! You are fortunate to have been cleansed of your root of sin, otherwise, a million deaths wouldn''t suffice!"

    "..." Yun Xiao was left speechless. He wondered, once these eight instances were concluded, if she realized he still bore the root of sin, would she perish in a fit of rage?

    "Follow me to the Snow Diva Ruins!" shemanded coldly.

    Yun Xiao could only nod. He had yet to move when a blizzard swirled around him, engulfing him.

    With a hum, his body was whisked away, carried by the frigid storm at a fearsome speed towards the horizon.

    "This woman is truly fearsome, probably fiercer than the Destion Marshal of the Six Paths of Reincarnation. If I were just an ordinary person in the First Baptism Realm, she could kill me 1,000 times over with a single breath!"

    For her, although she could crush Yun Xiao like a cockroach, her restraint was telling of her endurance...

    "Yao Yao has been sidetracked, and now I''m being dragged to the Snow Diva Ruins to provide <em>service¡­</em>."

    What was once whimsical had now turned into a chore, utterly devoid of any amusement!

    Indeed, the blizzard had swirled around Yun Xiao as he was swept toward his destination, arriving swiftly at the Snow Diva Ruins.

    When Yun Xiao touched the ground, he found himself within a hall of pale white majesty. The hall was vast, an open expanse under a ceiling where the intertwining snake scales spelled out <em>Pce of Melting Snow</em>.

    As for the full scope of the Snow Diva Ruins, Yun Xiao could not tell, his perspective limited by the mountain he was within. Yet, he had gleaned that behind these ruinsy the supreme sanctuary of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªthe Harmony Divine Pool, whose waters were said to conceive miracles.

    Within the Pce of the Melting Snow, one could faintly hear the thunderous roar of the Divine Spring waters, consumed en masse by the women of the realm, a testament to its voluminous capacity.

    "Come." The Diva alighted to the ground, her serpent tail transforming into bare jade feet upon the cold floor of the great hall, her long skirt trailing vibrant snowkes across the tiles...

    Yun Xiao followed. Watching her swaying silhouette, he passed through corridors into the deeper sanctum of the Pce of Melting Snow. The temptation of boundlessness and the threat of the projection talismans gave Yun Xiao a sense of security, knowing there was no need for such a secluded ce for any foul y.

    This secrecy was merely for modesty¡¯s sake.

    Finally, a pitch-dark chamber appeared before them. It was small, intimate like a boudoir.

    With a thunderous nk, a thick door of iron and celestial ore mmed shut behind them.

    Alone together, they stood in the confined, deathly still space, where even the breath and body¡¯s fragrance were palpable.

    ¡°It¡¯s too dark, shall we light amp?¡± Yun Xiao suggested.

 Chapter 806: A Spring of Blood!

    The walls around Yun Xiao and the Diva appeared to have been enchanted with a celestial array, absorbing every sliver of light.

    Normally, the Corona of the Diva would be more than dazzling enough. Yet, it was impossible to see anything beyond a meter.

    "No!" the Diva growled, pushing back the words Yun Xiao had just spoken.

    "Sure, whatever you prefer."

    Then, silence fell once again. It was easy to imagine. But when it came to act, the Diva stood still in the darkness, arms wrapped around herself, her cheeks quivering, eyes reddening, utterly at a loss for how to begin.

    "If it''s hard to speak, you might as well lie down and close your eyes, pretending it''s for healing. You are the patient, and I, the healer. No matter the process, if the medicine cures the disease, achieving immortality is the path of righteousness. If it is the right path, why cling to the small matters of the flesh?" Yun Xiao''s calm voice echoed.

    His analogy of doctor and patient transformed a moment of potential shame into one of life-saving grace, casting the act in a noble light.

    Hearing this, the Diva''s tensed figure gradually rxed.

    "You, merely a ve with a fragile life, have quite the insight."In the dark, her pale eyes gave him a lingering look.

    "Before I came to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, I too was considered a prodigy with dreams of boundless heights," Yun Xiao said cheerfully.

    "That¡¯s a pity, a waste of heaven¡¯s gifts," the Diva replied.

    "You''re joking. My modest talents pale inparison to the disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce," Yun Xiao responded.

    The Diva let out a softugh, tacitly agreeing. She epted the patient-healer metaphor, and leaned on a half-person tall table, her delicate face resting on her arms, her white hair cascading beautifully to one side.

    Yun Xiao quietly moved to her side, rolling up his sleeves.

    "What does it feel like to be cleansed?" the Diva suddenly asked.

    "Ah, it snaps off just like that, not much pain," Yun Xiao replied.

    "I mean emotionally, any changes?" she asked softly.

    After a pause, Yun Xiao fabricated, "It was very painful at first, then I came to terms with it, and finally became numb. No more improper thoughts, even in the presence of numerous celestial maidens in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, my heart only holds respect for the higher celestial beings."

    "Right? I told you, cleansing is truly beneficial. If the Divine Spring could rece men, the entire Samsara Gxy would no longer suffer from war or strife, nor so many lives lived in agony," the Diva dered.

    "Absolutely," Yun Xiao agreed with an inward smile, then solemnly added, "But enough talk, I''m starting now."

    "You must harbor no lewd thoughts, only purity and rity," the Diva instructed.

    Clearly, her earlier questions were merely a way to stall, her mind wandering in uncertainty.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Rest assured, I''ve always been sincere since childhood. Moreover, this act is one of lifesaving necessity. Saving one life is greater than creating a seven-tier pagoda, saving you is akin to saving millions. How could my intentions be impure?"

    As Yun Xiao spoke, his inner thoughts were far less noble. <em>Just wait and see how I''ll handle youter.</em>

    "Indeed, indeed..." the Diva sighed deeply, then closed her eyes tightly, burying her face in her arms, holding her breath.

    "I shall begin the healing," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Proceed with the healing, doctor¡­" Her voice was as faint as a mosquito''s, barely audible.

    <em>Good grief, she''s fully embracing this role-y¡­</em> Yun Xiao shook his head.

    Even so, as his slender, jade-like fingers touched her legs, her delicate body shuddered violently, a blush spreading from her legs, sweeping across her entire form as if her legs harbored a beating heart.

    "Are you alright?" Yun Xiao immediately lifted his fingers, asking softly. He was blessed with a divine appearance, a pleasing voice, gentle movements, and methodical progress...

    If one could overlook the chasm-wide gap between the status of a Diva and that of a mere ve, returning to the basic dynamics of man and woman¡­ Then, from a sensory perspective, she found him entirely eptable!

    "It''s, it''s alright!" She bit her lip, her desire for boundlessness suppressing all struggle. Her throat felt ame as she said, "No matter my reaction, don''t stop, the sooner it''s done, the better!"

    "Understood."

    That was exactly the response Yun Xiao had been waiting for. Otherwise, it would have been perilous.

    With her resolve confirmed once again, he decided to act without restraint!

    Within this sealed, pitch-ck chamber, soft suppressed moans of seeking immortality echoed low and became an entrancing obsession, persisting endlessly.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Half an hourter, in the Pce of Melting Snow, Yun Xiao walked out alone from the deep, shadowy corridor.

    Outside, a tall and slender young devil girl paced back and forth, clearly agitated.

    Hearing footsteps, she instantly locked eyes on Yun Xiao.

    "Where have you been? I''ve been calling you forever and you never answered. You might as well remove that Mortal Dust Devil Seed; it''s useless anyway," Feng Yao said, her irritation in.

    "You wish," Yun Xiao replied coolly.

    He''d already informed her that he arrived in the Snow Diva Ruins before cutting off the connection. After all, healing required focus and couldn''t afford distractions.

    "What exactly is your rtionship with the Diva?" Feng Yao found it all too astonishing. Ever since arriving in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the two of them had been together almost the whole time. When had he managed to get involved in all this?

    "Don''t worry about it. How''s your training going?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Feng Yao didn''t listen to a word he said, sniffing suspiciously around him and immediately frowning.

    "You didn''t, you know, do something with her, did you?" she asked, biting her lip.

    "Don''t talk nonsense. The Diva is to be revered, not defiled," Yun Xiao stood with his hands behind his back, then continued solemnly, "I identally offended her before, and now, because of my connection with you, my life is spared. You need to train hard and fulfill your potential, otherwise, I''m in big trouble."

    "Is that so..." Feng Yao said suspiciously. She found that following him, her intelligence seemed increasingly insufficient. How much of what he said was true, and how much was false? She was utterly baffled.

    "How are you doing?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Me?" Feng Yao ced a hand on her hip, her figure curving pronouncedly, and said proudly, "I first went to the Harmony Divine Pool. Do you know how well-suited that ce is for me?"

    "Go on," Yun Xiao said, holding his forehead.

    Feng Yao rolled her eyes and said, "Forget it, I''m tired of talking to you."

    "Does the Harmony Divine Pool have blood?" Yun Xiao asked.

    He asked because Feng Yao''s Mortal Dust Devil Blood had significantly increased.

    "Yup, plenty!" Feng Yao replied. She was someone who couldn''t keep things to herself, spilling everything at the slightest provocation.

    "Speak up then," Yun Xiao said.

    "You really want to know¡­?" Feng Yao crossed her arms and asked.

    "Forget it then," Yun Xiao waved dismissively.

    "Hey, wait!" Feng Yao grabbed his arm, "The Harmony Divine Pool isposed of the blood of those Harmony Divine Beasts. You remember that Six-Hearted Serpent, right?"

    "Divine Spring Blood? Drinking it increases a daughter''s talents?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes, exactly that," Feng Yao said excitedly.

    Yun Xiao remembered that the Sea Storm Valkyrie from the Sea Lineage had drunk the blood of a Seven-Hearted Beast and produced a daughter with an Extreme Yin Divine Physique.

    "How much?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "A lot, a whole lot. All of it is blood," Feng Yao replied.

    "Is the Divine Spring Blood rted to the Divine Spring Water?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It is. The Harmony Divine Beasts are nourished by the Divine Spring Water, not born from a mother." Feng Yao felt it was quite miraculous.

    "I see..." Yun Xiao nodded, "So your path to advancement, any trouble?"

    "There''s still an issue. The Harmony Divine Pool is divided into an inner and outer pool. One must be a Valkyrie Princess or higher to enter the outer pool. My master was allowed in as an exception for her merits. I went to the outer pool today; it contains the blood of Harmony Divine Beasts with less than six hearts. The inner pool, which only Valkyrie Queens and Divas can enter, is said to have the blood of Harmony Divine Beasts with seven hearts or more. It¡¯s more potent, though not as noticeable when consumed."

    After finishing, Feng Yao quietly asked Yun Xiao, "What do you think, if I ask the Diva to let me into the inner pool, will she agree?"

    Yun Xiao thought for a moment and said, "If it¡¯s about breaking the rules, you might need approval from the Divas of the Sea and Ice Lineages as well. Better ask."

    "I''ll try asking the Diva when I see her. Do you know where she is?" Feng Yao casually inquired.

    "I don¡¯t know, haha," Yun Xiaoughed. He knew she was casually trying to get information out of him. So, he deflected, "By the way, I heard the Diva gave you the Heaven Devourer Bow? Did ite with arrows?"

    "Of course!" Feng Yao replied.

    "What grade?"

    "Way better than what you gave me! Upper Swallowing Heaven grade, just below the highest Burying Heaven grade! Only Valkyrie Princesses are allowed to receive such a high quality celestial weapon. I¡¯ve tested it, and it¡¯s incredibly powerful," Feng Yao said with high spirits.

    "Let me see it then," Yun Xiao said.

    "I''m not giving it to you, unless you take me to see the Diva. You definitely know where she is," Feng Yao teased.

    "..." Yun Xiao fell silent.

    Just then, footsteps echoed through the deep corridor.

    A woman with white hair, flushed cheeks, and a dazed look staggered out, leaning against the wall, gasping for breath¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 807: Congregation of Three Divas

    ¡°Diva!¡± Feng Yao stepped forward, her eyes clearing as she beheld the Diva of the Snow Lineage.

    The smile on her face faded slowly.

    ncing between Yun Xiao and the Diva, her expression turned chaotic, her teeth clenched in silent frustration, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts.

    ¡°ve.¡± The Diva¡¯s voice was cold as she eyed Yun Xiao. ¡°The Pce of Melting Snow is not for your treading, step back.¡±

    Yun Xiao nodded, giving face, and retreated.

    ¡°Don¡¯t go too far!¡±

    Jealousy overturned in Feng Yao¡¯s heart, her blood boiling to the surface, her skin flushed with rage.

    Once Yun Xiao had departed, she approached the Diva again. Her dark red eyes examined the woman, as if to see through her very essence.

    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± the Diva coughed, instinctively adjusting her robe, and asked with feigned indifference.¡°You are truly beautiful, Diva,¡± Feng Yao said.

    ¡°To those who pursue the path of immortality, appearances are meaningless, especially to those from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm who seek the dao,¡± the Diva replied.

    ¡°Indeed.¡± Feng Yao nodded, though her heart disagreed.

    ¡°Moreover, Yao Yao, you are the unrivaled beauty of the Samsara Gxy. Across the 18 Ster Rivers, none canpare to you. So, should you ever leave the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, remember to guard your purity and give no man an opportunity,¡± the Diva spoke with profound sincerity.

    ¡°I understand!¡± Feng Yao responded, her inner voice sarcastic, ¡°Fine words, but what were you and he doing here just now?¡±

    She could smell something was amiss.

    That icy fragrance of the Diva carried a trace of him, unmistakably familiar to her.

    ¡°By the way, have you visited the Harmony Divine Pond yet?¡± The Diva quickly changed the subject.

    ¡°I was about to ask you, I was wondering if I could be allowed special entry to the inner pond for cultivation?¡± Feng Yao asked.

    The Diva paused, then said, ¡°With you being in the First Baptism Realm, the outer pond should suffice. In fact, your presence there is already an exception.¡±

    ¡°Is there no way to make another exception?¡± Feng Yao persisted.

    Seeing her earnestness, the Diva replied, ¡°You haven¡¯t shown much yet, making it hard to convince the other lineages. I hear you wish topete in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects; show your worth, and I shall speak on your behalf, making it more justifiable.¡±

    "I understand!"

    As the afternoon wore on, the decisive selection drew near, with a little more than an hour left.

    "I will have Wu Shang take you to the battle. You may leave now," the Diva said.

    "Diva, if I need a Cmity Source..." Feng Yao began.

    "Feel free to ask her," the Diva cut her off, seeming eager as if she had urgent matters to attend to.

    Humming inwardly with skepticism, Feng Yao maintained a dutiful facade and took her leave from the Pce of Melting Snow.

    Once she was gone, the Diva let out a long sigh. She slowly sank to the ground, her legs transforming into a coiled serpent¡¯s tail, the pink and white scales shimmering with a ghostly light.

    "What the hell¡­!" She weakly pped her tail, leaning against the wall, appearing utterly exhausted. "Even a lowly ve can stir such a tempest within me; if it were a real man, could I even keep my wits?

    "Heavens, why demean a woman¡¯s dignity so?"

    She closed her delicate pink eyes.

    "Once I achieve boundlessness, I can change everything, making the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm truly respected, truly dignified."

    Her fists clenched tightly. She would no longer fret about how she seeded in bing a Boundless Immortal, only the results mattered!

    "Damn this scent." Her body thrummed with the power of the Eighth Baptism Realm, repeatedly refining her form. She needed a new, Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source to advance one step closer on the path to bing a Boundless Immortal.

    Oncepleted, she would have reached the power of ten cmities.

    Before attempting her transcendence, she intended to evaporate any undesirable scents from her body, living in a pure and sanctified dream, surrounded by a satisfying mist of pink and white.

    However, it wasn¡¯t long before new disturbances arose outside the Pce of Melting Snow.

    The Diva¡¯s pink eyes snapped open as she rose, her tail erect, her stature majestic.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The doors of the Pce of Melting Snow burst open.

    Two grand silhouettes entered, as if an iceberg and a cold sea had pushed their way in, dividing the pce into three dominions of ice, snow, and sea.

    Amidst the frosty mist, a sharp and chilling sword light gradually took the form of the blue-haired Ice Lineage Diva, her demeanor as cold and solitary as frost, her figure imposingly tall andmanding.

    In the midst of the cold sea, a figure emerged, her human torso ending in a serpentine tail, crowned with a cascade of dark green hair that tumbled like a waterfall. Her presence was mature, embodying the spirit of boundless seas and great depths, her posture grand and her curves reminiscent of ocean waves, her tail thicker and meatier than usual.

    These two, whether in aura or divine might, stood no less than the Snow Lineage Diva, marking them as sovereigns of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, ruling above all beings!

    Upon entering, the blue-haired Ice Lineage Diva spoke bluntly, "Where is the little devil girl? The 9-Star Boundless Immortal talent?"

    The Snow Lineage Diva regarded her coolly, "What concern is it of yours?"

    "What do you mean? When a prodigy surpassing all history emerges, you think your lineage can monopolize her? Abandon such delusions. A talent of this caliber requires the full force of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to nurture her brilliance," the Ice Lineage Diva retorted sharply.

    "Pretty words, but how do I know you won''t destroy the child out of jealousy? Your envy is well-known, need I borate?" the Snow Lineage Diva countered.

    "Enough," the graceful Sea Lineage Diva interjected with a smile, "We are sisters; there''s no need for discord. The emergence of such a talent is a blessing for the entire Harmony Divine Pce."

    She continued, addressing the Snow Lineage Diva, "We both intend to support the cultivation of a Boundless Immortal. We all know how rare it is to achieve that realm. In this lifetime, she may be our only hope."

    "What do you mean, this lifetime has no hope? That''s your despair, I still have hope," the Snow Lineage Diva with white hair and pink eyes retorted.

    Her words cast a shadow over the Sea Lineage Diva''s face.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The atmosphere turned icy.

    "I''ll say it again, a 9-Star talent is a boon for the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. If this causes a schism among the lineages, it would be a tragic miscement of priorities," the Sea Lineage Diva dered.

    "Whether we split or not depends on you," the Snow Lineage Diva stated.

    "Do you really wish to monopolize her?" the Ice Lineage Diva asked coldly.

    "That''s not my intention," the Snow Lineage Diva pursed her lips, then solemnly added, "She is still too young, her foundation too weak, her spiritual heart not yet formed, susceptible to deception and crooked paths. Therefore, for her first four celestial baptisms, I will guide her personally, as closely as a mother would her daughter."

 Chapter 808: Yun Xiao, Are You Watching?

    "After she reaches the Fourth Baptism Realm, I''ll dly wee you two in nurturing her," the Snow Lineage Diva said.

    However, the Ice and Sea Lineage Divas frowned. Even for a peerless prodigy, it would take quite a bit of time to go from the First Baptism Realm to the Fourth Baptism Realm.

    During this time, the Snow Lineage Diva would have more than enough time to deepen her bond with Feng Yao.

    By then, it would be almost impossible forters like the Ice and Sea Lineage Divas to earn Feng Yao''s recognition.

    "My decision is final. Please, you may leave," the Snow Lineage Diva said, gesturing towards the door. Her deration was a testament to her fearlessness against any ostracism that mighte from the other two.

    In this three-way power struggle, their rtionships had always been a delicate bnce of mutual indigestibility.

    "Do you truly wish to walk this path of no return?" The Ice Lineage Diva¡¯s eyes frosted over as she spoke.

    "Like I said, that''s up to you," the Snow Lineage Diva replied curtly.

    The Sea Lineage Diva, having long since lost her smile, chimed in, "Very well, we look forward to seeing what you can teach her in the first four celestial baptisms. With your prodigious talents, do not falter.""There is no need for your concern," the Snow Lineage Diva responded coolly.

    "We shall see," the Ice Lineage Diva was not ready to concede just yet.

    "None of that matters now. Later, she will attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects; you shall see her then," the Snow Lineage Diva continued in her stark manner.

    "You really are something!" The Ice Lineage Diva was internally aze with frustration.

    However, there was nothing to be done. It was Xue Yuening who had brought this young devil to their domain and daringly bestowed upon her the genuine Harmony Crown!

    Neither the Frost Valkyrie nor the Sea Storm Valkyrie had the foresight to see Feng Yao''s talent. They simply had to ept this fact.

    Without another word, the two Divas turned and departed.

    As they left the Pce of Melting Snow, the Sea Lineage Diva nced back and scoffed, "It was Xue Yuening who gave that little devil girl her chance, not her. What is she pretending for?"

    "As long as she remains within the Harmony Divine Pce, opportunities are plentiful; there¡¯s no need to rush," the Ice Lineage Diva remarked.

    This matter solidified their alliance like never before.

    "Do you believe she''s actually a 9-Star talent? Could it be a ruse by the Snow Lineage? Otherwise, why prevent us from seeing her?" the Sea Lineage Diva whispered coldly.

    "They said she¡¯s going to participate in the selection for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, right? A cultivator¡¯s true level is clearest duringbat," the Ice Lineage Diva replied.

    Together, they soared into the sky¡ªa rare sight indeed.

    "Hm?" The blue-haired Ice Lineage Diva felt a sudden stir and turned her gaze back towards the Snow Diva Ruins.

    There, amidst the snowy ruins, she thought she glimpsed a fleeting white figure! She couldn¡¯t tell if it was mere illusion or reality.

    "Is that senior still in the Harmony Divine Pce?" the Ice Lineage Diva wondered, her mind awash with thoughts.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the Pce of Melting Snow¡­

    "Out with it, what did you and her get up to?!" Feng Yao cornered Yun Xiao against a snowy wall, looming over him.

    He was pressed down by her assets, breathless and struggling to speak.

    "What are you imagining? Surely you know how she looks down on ves, right?" Yun Xiao retorted, his voice t with frustration.

    "Nonsense," Feng Yao chuckled dismissively. "She can''t fool me. The old women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm are all repressed. Once there''s a crack, it''s like a deluge."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "And what about you?" Yun Xiao asked with a smirk.

    "Get lost, I''m young and not bottled up at all," Feng Yao red back.

    Her interrogation yielded nothing further.

    "You''re lying, and I''ll eventually catch you in the act," she huffed.

    "Why the diligence? Could it be¡ª" Yun Xiao teased.

    "Shut it. I''m just warning you, the women here are no easy foes. Don''t stir up trouble that ends up costing me my neck," Feng Yao retorted.

    "Rest easy," Yun Xiao assured her.

    "Why ''rest easy''?" Feng Yao paused, puzzled.

    "Because you''re suffocating me¡­" Yun Xiao muttered under his breath.

    This reversal of roles had its own fierce impact.

    "I''ll go find the Diva!"

    To escape the awkwardness, Feng Yao turned and headed back to the Pce of Melting Snow. Soon, she was knocking on the entrance.

    "Come in."

    The other two Divas had just left.

    Upon entering, Feng Yao found the Snow Lineage Diva appearing serene andposed. "Diva, I wish to break through in the Harmony Divine Pool, but Ick the entry token from Valkyrie Queen Wu Shang."

    "I''ll apany you," the Snow Lineage Diva offered with a gentle smile.

    "Personally?" Feng Yao was taken aback.

    Indeed, having a Diva personally aid in one¡¯s cultivation was a significant honor.

    The Harmony Divine Pool was a double ring-shaped pool with an outer and inner pool.

    At the outer pool of the Harmony Divine Pool, one could faintly perceive the pool''s vibrant flow, its life force robust and overwhelming.

    Only a Valkyrie Princess was permitted in the outer pool, and only a Valkyrie Queen could enter the inner pool.

    During this visit, Feng Yao had unexpectedly encountered Xue Yuening, her first time at the Harmony Divine Pool breaking convention. Their meeting was joyous and heartwarming.

    Xue Yuening, observing the Diva personally guide Feng Yao, wisely refrained from disturbing their growing bond, recognizing Feng Yao''s rarity.

    Ahead, the Harmony Divine Pool was in reality a blood pool, filled not with ordinary fluid but with the blood of Harmony Divine Beasts. This blood, blue as ice and clear as crystal, appeared as though it were pearls ground into liquid form¡ªit bore no scent of gore, but was instead refreshingly sweet and pleasant to the senses.

    Indeed, neither the Valkyrie Princesses nor Valkyrie Queens directly consumed the blood. Like Feng Yao with the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, they too slowly assimted its essence.

    After all, the blood was potent with lineage power. If it were absorbed too hastily, it could easily devastate the body and corrupt the bloodline.

    With a series of gurgles, the first step upon entering the Harmony Divine Pool was to disrobe.

    The Snow Lineage Diva did so with ease, her white dress dissipating like mist as she slipped into the pool with a serpentine grace, perfectly in harmony with her surroundings.

    The water rippled around her, the serpentine woman¡¯s beauty magnified by the undting waves¡ªa truly mesmerizing sight.

    "How beautiful!" Feng Yao marveled, half-jokingly contemting her own potential for simr grace.

    "Come on in," the Snow Lineage Diva called back, her wet white hair cascading over her shoulders, her smile as sweet as the waters.

    Despite initial embarrassment, Feng Yao reminded herself she was among only women here, which eased her difort. She shed her garments and stepped into the Harmony Divine Pool, her presence causing thergest ripples yet.

    "The Snow Lineage Diva has brought the 9-Star talent!"

    Soon, numerous Valkyrie Princesses converged to pay their respects.

    "Good day, seniors," Feng Yao greeted each with impable politeness, regardless of their lineage, earning a swell of favorable murmurs.

    As she looked around at the shimmering figures, her smile froze.

    "Yun Xiao, are you watching?" she blurted out.

    Immediately, a voice echoed in her heart, "No, I am a gentleman through and through."

    "I didn¡¯t specify what you should be watching, and you im to be a gentleman?" Feng Yao nearlyughed in exasperation.

    "Hmm¡­" Yun Xiao fell silent for a moment, then suggested, "Well, in that case, why don¡¯t you walk a bit further, maybe even take a dive¡­"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 809: Oblivion Shadow!

    Feng Yao barely kept herposure, inwardly cursing at Yun Xiao so much she was almost giving off steam.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yao, Yao, what''s wrong?" The Valkyrie Princesses, uncovered by a single article of clothing, circled around this talented devil girl and expressed their concern.

    ¡°Nothing, it¡¯s nothing,¡± Feng Yao replied hastily, her inner monologue screaming silent protests.

    She couldn''t just close her eyes while speaking to her seniors; so, she couldn¡¯t really stop Yun Xiao from ogling.

    ¡°Go on, stare all you like, but mind your eyes don¡¯t sprout needles,¡± she snapped.

    ¡°That would be your eyes,¡± Yun Xiao retorted.

    ¡°¡­!¡± Feng Yao had no choice but to block the infuriating man out and go about her business.

    Having met many Valkyrie Princesses from all three lineages, she excused herself early to go off and cultivate.

    With a Diva among them, the Valkyrie Princesses dared not linger too long.Despite their superficial politeness and apparent admiration, who could truly know what thoughtsy beneath? Especially the Valkyrie Princesses of the Sea and Ice Lineages, who seemed the most enthusiastic and eager to leave a good impression on Feng Yao.

    ¡°Master, I need a Cmity Source,¡± she said, having secured thepany of the Snow Vein Diva.

    ¡°Are you attempting your second celestial baptism?¡± the Diva asked gently.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Feng Yao nodded.

    ¡°Even if you seed, reaching the Second Baptism Realm might not meet the minimal qualifications for the selection of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects,¡± the Diva asked, ¡°I hear from Xue Yuening that you can fight above your level?¡±

    ¡°Yes. So, if I reach the Second Baptism Realm, it should be okay," Feng Yao said.

    ¡°Then let¡¯s try.¡± The Diva paused, then added, ¡°You¡¯ll need a Defying Heaven grade Cmity Source, I¡¯ll find one of the best quality.¡±

    ¡°Actually¡­¡± Feng Yao shook her head, then, with a fierce glint in her eye, said, ¡°For my second celestial baptism, I want to use a Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source.¡±

    The Diva with her hair and pink eyes paused, her gaze fixed on the clear <em>waters</em> of the Harmony Divine Pool.

    ¡°Are you sure you mean Swallowing Heaven grade, and not Sealing Heaven grade?¡± she asked in a low voice.

    Feng Yao possessed a Boundless Immortal talent that aspiring directly for a Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source made sense. But aiming for a Swallowing Heaven grade one was even a greater leap; such Cmity Sources were typical for those wishing to break through to the Fifth or Sixth Baptism Realm, heralding a transformation into a Valkyrie or Valkyrie Princess.

    Even most geniuses would have centuries of cultivation under their belt before daring to use such a Cmity Source.

    ¡°I''m sure. In fact, my first baptism was with an Upper Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source,¡± Feng Yao dered with confidence.

    The Sanguine Spirit Serpent Cmity Source she''d used was not strong. But it had evolved. Now, the Sanguine Spirit Dragon¡¯s power coursing through her Mortal Dust Devil Blood was of such high quality that it matched, if not surpassed, that of a Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source.

    Hearing this, the Diva''s eyes shimmered, deeply moved.

    ¡°Let me feel your devil blood.¡± She reached out her delicate hand, grasping Feng Yao''s slender fingers.

    ¡°Mhm.¡± Feng Yao sped the Diva''s hand, and strands of her Mortal Dust Devil Blood mingled on their fingertips, the power of the Sanguine Spirit Dragon surging.

    ¡°Though not overwhelmingly powerful, this is indeed the tribtion power of a high quality Cmity Source. I doubt even many Samsara Disciples in the Harmony Divine Pce possess such strength.¡±

    The Diva was undoubtedly shocked after sensing it.

    Finally, she remarked, ¡°Truly worthy of being a 9-Star prodigy personally chosen by the Harmony Crown. Your foundation surpasses that of the so-called super geniuses across all 18 Ster Rivers of the Samsara Gxy by a wide margin.¡±

    The Diva recalled how the Harmony Crown had identified her as possessing an 8-Star Diva talent. Yet, for her first and second celestial baptism, she dared not use a Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source, adhering strictly to convention.

    After all, cultivation was about gradual progression; using excessively potent Cmity Sources early on only bolstered one''s ability to outpace peers temporarily. By the fourth orter celestial baptisms, the quality of everyone''s tribtion power would average out.

    However, the risk of using such potent Cmity Sources prematurely was not worth it.

    So, aside from record-seeking lunatics, no one would prematurely use such potent Cmity Sources.

    Yet in the eyes of the Diva, Feng Yao was no lunatic.

    ¡°You possess true divine talent, with courage surpassing all others,¡± the Diva said with a hint of envy.

    Feng Yao offered an awkward smile, somewhat embarrassed. It was because the traits she was being praised for were Yun Xiao''s, including the bold request for a Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source.

    If it were up to her¡­ she would never dare such a risk!

    ¡°That guy truly is a pervert, a lunatic, and a fiend!¡± Feng Yao muttered to herself in her heart.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s life was brimming with notable figures. He had Senior Zhao at home, a little white tiger far away, Feng Yao herself constantly by his side, and an Empress Dowager Cao in the Celestial Court. Yet, her heart sought more.

    ¡°Yao Yao.¡± The Diva, deeply moved by her courage, carefully presented a frost figurine. ¡°This is a Lower Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source called Oblivion Shadow. I believe it''s well-suited for your Yin Devil constitution. It can elerate the eruption of your devil blood, forming an obliteration shadow. The only w might be the devastating power it unleashes during the cmity, which many Valkyries dare not withstand.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not a w then,¡± Feng Yao replied. She had wanted to say that herself, savoring the thrill such boldness brought.

    ¡°Oh?¡± The Diva¡¯s eyes sparkled, her voice tender, ¡°Your spirit is truly astonishing.¡±

    Seeing the admiration in her gaze, Feng Yao mused, "No wonder men love to boast¡ªit truly attracts attention!"

    She was falling for it herself.

    So, she took the frost figurine, patting her chest with confidence, ¡°Just watch me.¡±

    ¡°Mhm¡­¡± The Diva watched therge ripples spread across the waters of the Harmony Divine Pool, offering an awkward smile and a nod.

    ¡°How tall she stands, she outdoes five of me¡­¡± the Diva murmured to herself, maintaining her smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m starting now.¡± Feng Yao, holding the frost figurine, found a corner in the Harmony Divine Pool to avoid disturbing others.

    She was also intent on significantly refining the blood here.

    The Diva kept an eye on Feng Yao. She didn¡¯t follow but watched from a distance, her eyes filled with deep care.

    ¡°Seems the Diva has taken a liking to you,¡± Yun Xiao suddenly remarked.

    ¡°Would you cut it out?¡± Feng Yao rolled her eyes.

    ¡°Really, they¡¯ve neither children nor sisters; they¡¯re desperately in need of love. Your bravado just now drew her in,¡± Yun Xiao insisted.

    ¡°Go to hell, get lost.¡± Feng Yao nced unconsciously at the Snow Lineage Diva. Her gaze made Feng Yao¡¯s heart skip a beat, and she thought, ¡°The Diva is indeed much cuter than this guy¡­ What am I thinking?¡±

    Feng Yao shook her head vigorously, scolding Yun Xiao for a moment before she grasped the Oblivion Shadow Cmity Source.

    This Cmity Source resembled a mass of dark shadows, within which roared a fierce storm of destruction that seemed ever on the brink of erupting to annihte everything around.

    ¡°Might as well see it through now that we¡¯re in this deep!¡± she dered.

    Spending so much time with Yun Xiao had fostered in her a daring streak; though they were a man and a woman, their temperaments were strikingly alike.

    <em>HUM! </em>As the Oblivion Shadow merged into her, it was as if a storm of ck demonic mes surged through her body, rushing through her organs and veins!

    ¡°This Blood Base needs more nurturing with Blood type Seeds of Creation, or it''s somewhat inherently deficient,¡± Yun Xiaomented.

    ¡°You choose now to say this?¡± Feng Yao rolled her eyes in exasperation.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In an instant, her delicate figure was engulfed by the ck shadow. The tempestuous power unfurled throughout the Harmony Divine Pool, drawing the rmed attention of many Valkyrie Princesses.

    ¡°Diva! Yao Yao, she...¡±

    Suddenly, many Valkyrie Princesses, faces etched with concern, gathered around.

    ¡°She''s using the Swallowing Heaven grade Oblivion Shadow Cmity Source to reach the Second Baptism Realm?!¡±

    These Valkyrie Princesses were dumbfounded; such a thing was meant for elders like them¡ªhow could it be given to a child?

    Their stunned faces turned towards the Diva, tinged with doubt.

    This was basically a death sentence!

    ¡°Just watch and see.¡± The Diva recognized their thoughts from their gazes.

    Allowing Feng Yao to use a Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source was her decision, and she was prepared to take responsibility.

    No one was more anxious than her at this moment...

    After all, neither Yun Xiao nor Feng Yao themselves seemed worried.

    Once the Oblivion Shadow merged, Yun Xiao, wielding the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, met it head-on, wrapping it up, then channeling the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity to absorb the blood of the Harmony Divine Pool while simultaneously integrating the tribtion power of the Oblivion Shadow.

    The majority of the Oblivion Shadow''s tribtion power was locked away by Yun Xiao using the Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    The cultivation method, aptly named Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, drew upon some of the strongest tribtions between heaven and earth, making Feng Yao''s celestial baptism by fire somewhat easier.

    Were it not for her delicate nature and the rarity of obtaining a Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source, Yun Xiao would have pushed her directly to that level.

    <em>SIZZLE! SIZZLE! SIZZLE! </em>Her Corona and Mortal Dust Devil Blood grew steadily stronger.

    Within the blood, the Sanguine Spirit Dragon and ck storm from the Oblivion Shadow began to coalesce. These two mighty forces coiled around her body, spreading outward, adding a swirl of dark mist that lent Feng Yao an even more enchanting, bewitching, and seductive aura.

    "You''ve reached the Second Baptism Realm, now take the chance to absorb as much blood from the Harmony Divine Pool as possible; see how far you can push it," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "I know, no need to nag," Feng Yao responded. Her response was typical of someone who had grown too confident, perhaps even a bit spoiled.

    But it couldn''t be helped; Yun Xiao did indeed spoil her. As long as she remembered who was in charge, a little petnce was not a problem for a girl.

    <em>GURGLE! GURGLE! GURGLE! </em>While the fog of the Oblivion Shadow lingered, Feng Yao absorbed copious amounts of <em>spring water</em> through the pores of her delicate body. Wherever the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity swept through, it transformed vast amounts of the <em>water</em> into Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    "Good thing this divine spring blood doesn''t cause pregnancy," Feng Yao remarked.

    "You don''t want children?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I just don''t want to do it alone. Can you imagine the hassle of raising a child by myself?" Feng Yao replied.

    "Are you hinting at something?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I''m not hinting at anything. You''re a human, I''m a devil; our races are different, so it wouldn''t work," Feng Yao stated tly.

    "Devils are considered a kind of exotic species, especially the Yin Devil, closest to human lineage. I''ve heard that with enough attempts, it might be possible. We''re both young, we have plenty of time," Yun Xiao said.

    "No! Did I agree to be with you?" Feng Yao bit her lip.

    "Whether you agree or not doesn''t matter. Don''t forget, you''re just a little blood ve, and I''m the master," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Pfft¡­ Boring." Feng Yao chose to ignore him, focusing instead on the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity. Within her veins and Corona, the volume of her Mortal Dust Devil Blood surged, continuously breaking new ground.

 Chapter 810: A Pair of Breakthroughs!

    Feng Yao''s Corona had transformed into a Sanguine Spirit Dragon that continued to grow stronger, nearly solidifying into reality like a true dragon. It coiled around her fiery, alluring form, enhancing her beguiling beauty.

    ¡°This blood from the Harmony Divine Pool is truly potent,¡± Feng Yao remarked.

    ¡°Is that so? How''s your progress?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°I''m already in the Perfect Second Baptism Realm,¡± Feng Yao excitedly dered.

    ¡°Not bad.¡±

    After advancing to the Second Baptism Realm, Feng Yao had quickly surpassed the Early stage, breaking through three stages¡ªsurpassing the Mid and Late stages to reach the Perfect stage!

    Feng Yao was only a step away from the Establishment stage of the Second Baptism Realm. Then, she could attempt her third celestial baptism!

    ¡°Excellent, now you have a chance to attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects,¡± Yun Xiao stated.

    He had waited so long for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, finally seeing a chance to escape this cursed ce.Though he had been in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm for barely three days, Yun Xiao was indeed impatient...

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Feng Yao dispelled all the tribtion fog around her, her perfect form rising from the Harmony Divine Pool.

    As the divine spring blood trickled down her wless skin, she approached the Snow Lineage Diva.

    Among these elders, each at least 20 times her age, none could match the talent of this 18-year-old devil girl, except for the Diva who relied solely on sheer desire to prevail, rendering the other Valkyrie Princessesckluster.

    However, none of them seemed to care. They were concerned with only one thing.

    ¡°She directly absorbed the Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source?¡±

    ¡°This is a miracle unprecedented in history!¡±

    The elders of the Harmony Divine Pce felt their worlds turn upside down.

    Within the Six Paths of Reincarnation, while the tale of Moon Fairy was still budding, the War Princess had already taken the lead, blossoming her talents in the Samsara Gxy, once again causing a sensation.

    ¡°She challenged the First Baptism Realm with an Upper Sealing Heaven grade Cmity Source, ¡± the Diva, smiling contently, spoke with satisfaction.

    Upon hearing this, the crowd was even more astonished, half-believing that Feng Yao had made this daring decision during her first celestial baptism with the Diva by her side.

    ¡°No wonder the Diva was so confident.¡±

    ¡°This would shake the Samsara Gxy if it ever got out of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!¡±

    The Harmony Divine Pool was abuzz with excitement.

    And there, the Diva, extending a hand with a smile, weed Feng Yao.

    As Feng Yao approached, their hands sped firmly. With a gentle tug, the Diva embraced her fully.

    <em>PLOP! </em>The Diva whispered into her ear, ¡°Yao Yao, although I¡¯m close to realizing my dreams, I¡¯ve lost what was most essential to uphold. You are my dream, you must hold on, you must seed.¡±

    ¡°Mhmm! I definitely will!¡± Feng Yao didn¡¯t quite grasp her meaning, but seeing her sincerity, she nodded politely.

    ¡°Diva, is it about time I attend the selection of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects?¡± Feng Yao asked softly.

    ¡°Let¡¯s embrace a moment longer, there¡¯s still time,¡± the Diva smiled.

    ¡°Alright.¡± Feng Yao nodded, enduring the strangeness, feeling the warmth of the Diva.

    ¡°Wait!¡± She looked down at the Diva close-up, with white hair and pink eyes, and couldn¡¯t help but grit her teeth and ask again, ¡°Yun Xiao, are you still watching?¡±

    Lazily, from within her heart, the youth replied, ¡°Yup, I''m still watching.¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Back in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, within the Great Dry Well in the Beast Path, fire, thunder, wind, and ice collided relentlessly.

    These deste forces, derived from the Celestial Sourcecore, were like fierce beasts with sentience, wreaking havoc everywhere.

    Destion and tribtions were somewhat alike, both mingling elemental forces rted to the natural elements of wind, fire, thunder, and so on.

    Destion was more widespread, found across the world.

    Tribtion, however, converged in the Myriad Daos Ocean of Cmity, scattered like particles across various ces.

    In other words, destion was dispersed, while cmity was concentrated.

    What they shared was their ferocity and destructiveness.

    As a demon, Moon Fairy, whether dealing with destion or tribtions, needed both to forge his physical body and cultivate its demonic power.

    "Moon Bro!"

    At this moment, amidst the swirling mists of destion, a nine-tailed silver fox and five-colored qilin yed and tussled joyfully.

    The younger five-colored qilin, although smaller in age, wasrger in size than the nine-tailed silver fox.

    Of course, the silver fox, with its sleek form and shimmering silver glow, possessed an enchanting allure, marking a distinct presence.

    Traditionally, foxes served as vassals to qilins, especially this five-colored qilin, a rare breed within the Six Paths of Reincarnation, naturally noble, born a ruler.

    Yet, here and now, the silver fox and the qilin chased and frolicked,ughing and ying, asionally rolling into a ball like two yful pups.

    "Haha¡­" Yun Xiao had always used this body double for battle, but today, for the second time, he used it for y, which felt quite amusing.

    As a child, he often watched puppies at y, and now, embodying this fox among the swirling mist of destion, he wrestled, tumbled, and yed hide-and-seek with the five-colored qilin, rediscovering a long-lost childhood innocence.

    "I''ve caught you!"

    With a swift turn, the little qilin pounced on him, and the two rolled together in the sea of destion, the qilin''s bell-likeughter easily melting away worries.

    After rolling about, Moon Fairy gazed down at the little qilin in his arms, and as their eyes met, a blush of shyness rose in her colorful eyes.

    "What is this, it hurts!" the qilin eximed as she released him, her voice tender.

    "Don''t be silly, it''s just a fox tail," Moon Fairy quickly reassured.

    "A fox tail? Let me count, how many tails do you have?" The little qilin moved behind him, staring and starting to count.

    "Ten?" she asked, puzzled.

    "Nine, nine tails." Moon Fairy quickly turned around as well.

    He remembered how puppies liked to snuggle up behind, and now, in his beastly form, he feared she might suddenly brush up against something.

    "Qiqi, let''s switch to human form!" Moon Fairy pleaded, his face flushing.

    "No! I don''t like human forms. Mother said we are demons, and we should never forget our true selves," Qiqi insisted earnestly.

    "Alright then!" Moon Fairy could only nod in agreement.

    "Thank you for ying with me; I''m so happy! Before, it was always Shi Chan, Mo Sha, and them following me around, and they''re no fun at all, always so formal," Qi Qiqi pouted.

    "It''s my pleasure, especially since you gave me a Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source," Moon Fairy said with augh.

    He had no choice! He was in need of a good Cmity Source and had ended up as a rich little girl''s ymate!

    If he were to curry favor with the likes of the Destion Marshal for a Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source, he''d have to earn quite a bit of merit, which would be troublesome.

    While Feng Yao was undergoing her second celestial baptism, Moon Fairy was also facing his own.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    He had used the Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source called Myriad Evil White Thunder.

    Now, the Divine Destion Physique and Demon Source surged within him, mingling with the Myriad Evil White Thunder and deste energies stirring through his body.

    After sessfully transcending the tribtion, Moon Fairy used the unattended destion in this Great Dry Well to break into the Establishment Stage of the Second Baptism Realm, advancing one stage higher than Feng Yao.

    With a bit more consolidation, he was ready to challenge the Third Baptism Realm!

    Though there had been little conflict recently, Moon Fairy''sbat strength had surged tremendously.

    "Hey, keep ying with me," the little qilinughed, leaping at him again, her clearughter echoing in all directions.

    Moon Fairy, helpless, could only continue to entertain her.

    The little qilin hadn''t been this happy in a long time and was thoroughly enjoying herself.

    Yun Xiao guessed it was because her high status made her peers wary of being too bold with her. He was different.

    "Hahaha..!"

    Joyfulughter spread far and wide.

    Colorful and white figures chased and tumbled...

    "Stop!!"

    "How dare you defile the daughter of the Destion Marshal!"

    "Cast him out; bring him to the Destion Marshal!"

    Suddenly, three furious roars boomed from above.

    Moon Fairy paused, pushing the little qilin beside him away slightly and looked up.

    There, three massive beasts, a lion, tiger, and leopard, descended from the skies, their rage billowing!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 811: Beast Simps Unite!

    Chapter 811: Beast Simps Unite!

    Three ferocious beasts appeared¡ªa lion, a tiger, and a leopard, each more daunting than thest.

    To the left, the lion bore a mane of gold, every strand steeped in golden blood, regal and domineering. Its roar alone shook the destion mes in the surroundings. It was no beast wounded in battle but a creature whose sweat shone like molten gold, teeming with a vitality supreme among the demonic ranks of the Six Paths of Reincarnation. Known as the Goldblood Lion, its kin were legion, its fame vast, and it was a general of renown within the Destion Corps.

    Centered between itspatriots was an evenrger ck tiger, its face grim as a fiend, twisted in a snarl. Thick, dark smoke wreathed its form, and from its jaws hung fangs a foot long, personifying the very essence of dread. This Dark Saber-Toothed Tiger, too, hailed from the highest echelons of the demonic ranks, born tomand, naturally imperious, and fiercely brave in battle.

    To the far right lurched the leopard, smaller yet swifter, a blur of lethal grace. Resembling a panther, it wasn''t adorned with copper spots but with glowing blue stars, casting an ethereal light that cloaked it in an elegant yet solemn aura, much like a deadly assassin poised for the kill. This was the Swiftcloud Star Leopard, an aerial marauder of the corps, an expert in sudden assaults, swift and unpredictable in its elegance.

    These three¡ªlion, tiger, leopard¡ªstood as the overlords of their rank, each bearing the position of lieutenants, signifying they were elites in the Third Baptism Realm. Though young, their lineage was noble, their ancestors holding high stations within the army.

    Even though their official positions were lieutenants, with 100 soldiers under each of theirmands, their real status was probably much loftier, simr to that of the Destion Marshal''s daughter, Qi Qiqi.

    At that moment, their collective ire was directed solely at Moon Fairy, dwarfing the nine-tailed silver fox in sheer size and ferocity.

    Thunder roared thrice as they descended from the heavens, their flesh-and-blood forms hurling toward Moon Fairy, rage nearly spilling blood from their snarls.

    ¡°Shi Chan, Mo Sha, Zhao Yichen, what are you doing?!¡± Qi Qiqi, upon hearing the roars, spun around just in time to see the lion, tiger, and leopard pounce into their midst.Shi Chan, Mo Sha, and Zhao Yichen¡­ these were the names of the Goldblood Lion, Dark Sabre-Toothed Tiger, and Swiftcloud Star Leopard.

    ¡°Yichen, protect Qi Qiqi!¡± Mo Sha, the Dark Saber-Toothed Tiger, thundered, mming a paw down toward Moon Fairy.

    The Swiftcloud Star Leopard moved like a streak of stars, shing in front of the multicolored qilin to shield her. ¡°Qiqi, don¡¯t be afraid! He hasn¡¯t seeded. We¡¯ll protect you and make that viin pay dearly!¡±

    ¡°What? He¡¯s Moon Fairy, the great hero who saved the Reincarnation Wick. We were just ying!¡± Qi Qiqi eximed, baffled.

    ¡°Destroy him!¡±

    The trio, eyes bloodshot and nostrils smoking with fury, didn¡¯t catch a word of Qi Qiqi¡¯s exnation.

    In their eyes, Qi Qiqi, as the daughter of the Destion Marshal, was akin to a celestial goddess. Her intimacy with Moon Fairy had ignited their wrath, clouding their vision with thoughts of revenge and punishment.

    ¡°Damn wretched fox! You weak, contemptible creature, daring to defile the multicolored qilin!¡± roared the Goldblood Lion, its voice thundering with such force that the surrounding deste fires swelled like a tsunami.

    In the bestial ranks, foxes, cunning and sly, might w their way to some status, but remained abjectly lowly before these supreme demonic breeds.

    ¡°A country mutt dares to climb atop the multicolored qilin?¡±

    Among beast demons, the sight of intimate frolic and y¡ªunhidden by clothing, only fur in sight¡ªwas prone to misunderstandings, and often stoked the violence of other males.

    Their murderous intent and fury toward Moon Fairy were just as primal, driven purely by their breeding instincts.

    Thunder cracked twice, piercing the air.

    Zhao Yichen, having shielded Qi Qiqi, watched as Shi Chan and Mo Sha, one wreathed in golden mes, the other cloaked in dark winds, lunged at Moon Fairy from either side.

    With their Demon Sources and the power of three tribtions at theirmand, their demon magic and physical prowess were unparalleled.

    The disparity in their forms was like that between ordinary lions and tigers versus a petite white fox.

    "Why so angry?" Moon Fairy mused, his chilling gaze fixed on his assants. His nine tails swayed behind him, tips glinting with the 18 segments of the Immortal Asylum, casting a chilling silver gleam. His fangs mirrored those of the Dark Saber-Toothed Tiger. He had truly be a <em>saber-toothed fox</em>.

    "I''m in the Establishment stage of the Second Baptism Realm; they''re probably in the Early or Mid stage of the Third Baptism Realm," Moon Fairy calcted.

    Before borrowing a Cmity Source from Qi Qiqi, he might have feared them. But now, what was there to fear?

    "Be careful, Moon Bro!" Qi Qiqi cried, her eyes brimming with tears. She had never seen Moon Fairy in battle and underestimated his prowess against these top-tier demonic prodigies.

    In this lightning-sh moment, Qi Qiqi''s tender age and slightly lesser strength meant she couldn''t intervene in time.

    Her anxious worry contrasted sharply with Moon Fairy''s calm, almost mocking demeanor.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Within Moon Fairy, the power of his Demon Source¡ªinfused with the Bleak Bone Wildfire and Myriad Evil White Thunder Cmity Sources¡ªerupted. White wind, fire, and thunder swirled around the silver fox.

    In the blink of an eye, his face sprouted six eyes¡ªpale, yellow, and blood-red¡ªarranged in a grotesque tapestry that added a brutal visage to his eerie aspect.

    "Worthless, filthy fox!"

    "Where did this perverted bastarde from?"

    Shi Chan and Mo Sha''s ws tore through the air towards the nine-tailed silver fox.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Moon Fairy blurred into motion. He didn''t retreat but advanced, transforming into a blinding white light of wind, fire, and thunder, and in a terrifying burst of speed, appeared right before the Goldblood Lion and Dark Saber-Toothed Tiger!

    <em>BOOM! </em>His fox ws, one on the left and one on the right, met the gigantic ws of Mo Sha and Shi Chan head-on!

    The tiny fox paws against the enormous lion and tiger ws¡ªit was an absurd mismatch!

    Such a sh appeared almostical¡­ Yet, during the exchange, expressions of surprise flickered across the faces of Shi Chan and Mo Sha.

    "You twinky little fo.. GAGHHH!!"

    "Idiot, you''re over...UGGHHH!!"

    Two agonized screams immediately ripped through the air.

    <em>SNAP! CRACK! </em>The robust limbs of the tiger and lion broke as if they had collided with pirs of iron!

    The twin sounds of shattering bones were painfully sharp to the ears!

    As the Goldblood Lion and Dark Saber-Toothed Tiger cried out in shock and pain, they stared in disbelief at the smiling little fox beneath their paws, their faces a spectacle of astonishment.

    "How is this possible!"

    They exchanged a look, their hearts thundering with shock.

    "What¡­?" Even the distant Swiftcloud Star Leopard gaped in utter disbelief.

    "Moon Bro?" The multicolored qilin, frantic till now, stood frozen, forgetting to exin further as she witnessed the scene.

    A flicker of strange light danced in her prismatic eyes.

    This bizarre spectacle was something the three top talents of the Destion Corps couldn''t fathom.

    "I''ll join too!" Zhao Yichen plummeted from above, transforming into a sharp streak of starlight, like a meteor howling towards the side of Moon Fairy!

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Moon Fairy¡¯s lowermost pair of yellow eyes instantly locked on the Swiftcloud Star Leopard!

    His nine slender fox tails whipped fiercely, striking sideways with a snap!

    <em>CRACK! </em>The Swiftcloud Star Leopard, charging at a terrifying speed, was flung back even faster by the fierce strike, blood spraying from his form.

    His scream, filled with incredulity and confusion, echoed.

    With a casual flick, the nine tails sent the muchrger Swiftcloud Star Leopard flying almost 1,000 meters, a truly frightening sight.

    "Let''s unite and destroy this wretched fox!"

 Chapter 812: An Unexpected Guest in the Northern Hall

    Chapter 812: An Unexpected Guest in the Northern Hall

    Mo Sha gritted his teeth against the severe pain, his body shrouded in swirling ck smoke that twisted into a tempest of dark tornadoes.

    Shi Chan clenched his jaws as well, his golden blood igniting into a fiery orb that he hurled at Moon Fairy

    "Stilling?" Moon Fairy figured they would be smart enough to back off. Yet, they persisted relentlessly, which stoked his anger.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>The nine-tailed silver fox leapt into the fray. Shrouded by wind, fire, and thunder, it shed fiercely with the Goldblood Lion, Dark Sabre-Toothed Tiger, and Swiftcloud Star Leopard.

    <em>BOOM! ROAR! SPLATTER! </em>This was a battle of flesh and blood, where every collision scattered gore and echoed with cries of pain.

    Of course, neither the blood nor the cries concerned Moon Fairy.

    The scattered blood, the torn flesh, and the fallen fur¡­ all came from the bodies of the lion, tiger, and leopard.

    Initially, their rage was like a great river, their roars incessant.

    As the battle wore on, their roars turned to screams of agony, their righteous indignation sinking to the depths. They were reduced from fierce beasts to drowned rats, relentlessly pursued by the nine-tailed silver fox. They were forced to flee with their tails between their legs."Hahaha!" Qi Qiqi waspletely at ease now, even finding the spectacle amusing,ughing for a long time.

    She could tell that Moon Fairy hadn''t truly intended to grievously wound them. Though their injuries were painful, and perhaps they would be bedridden for a while, but it wouldn''t significantly impact their cultivation.

    "These three were too reckless, it''s right to discipline them and teach them a lesson; otherwise, they''ll continue bullying people and disregarding others!

    "Still, I never knew Moon Bro was so strong! He''s only in the Second Baptism Realm, but he''s making three prodigies in the Third Baptism Realm flee in terror. No wonder he''s the great hero who saved the Reincarnation Wick¡­"

    The multi-colored qilin''s eyes gleamed as it watched the elegant and graceful nine-tailed silver fox toy with the lion, tiger, and leopard, its youthful face filled with the sweet bloom of first love.

    "Father, help me!"

    Just as Qi Qiqi was lost in her daydreams, Mo Sha suddenly bellowed in despair, like a drowning man clutching at a lifeline.

    Above the Great Dry Well, a sudden tremor erupted, and a terrifying presence descended violently!

    <em>HUM! </em>Moon Fairy looked up, and above him appeared a pair of vast ck eyes, locking onto his form!

    A ck storm burst forth from those eyes, crashing into Moon Fairy with a thunderous impact.

    <em>CRACK! SNAP! </em>Moon Fairy''s muscles tore, and from every pore, threads of fresh blood seeped out.

    "Father, kill him! He vited Qi Qiqi!" Mo Sha snarled ferociously.

    "Yes!"

    Those enormous ck eyes showed no emotion, their oppressive force intensified, a crushing pressure descending upon Moon Fairy.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Quick to react, Qi Qiqi dashed in front of Moon Fairy, shouting, "Uncle, don''t hurt him! He''s the savior of the Reincarnation Wick! It''s a misunderstanding!"

    With Qi Qiqi shielding Moon Fairy with her body, and the mention of saving the Reincarnation Wick, the crushing pressure quickly disappeared.

    "What''s going on?"

    From the heavens descended a man in a ck robe, his face dark and square, standing with his hands behind his back, exuding authority.

    When he noticed the bloody wounds on the Dark Saber-Toothed Tiger, his eyebrows twitched and he frowned slightly.

    "It was like this! I was ying with Brother Moon, and those three misunderstood and wanted to beat him up, but then..." Qi Qiqi hurriedly exined. She hesitated to finish her sentence because of how badly the three had been humiliated.

    All three were promising talents and sons of Generals of Xuan and Huan. Yet, they had been bested by a mere nine-tailed silver fox?

    The man in the ck robe fell silent for a moment before looking deeply at Moon Fairy and saying, "I hadn''t realized our great hero was also so gifted in battle."

    Moon Fairy responded modestly, "It''s nothing noteworthy."

    Had it not been for his ability to save the Reincarnation Wick, this man in the ck robe would have surely torn him to shreds for daring to beat his son like this.

    "Father! That''s not true! This guy is a scoundrel! He saw Qiqi was young and naive and deliberately deceived and tempted her! If we hadn''t caught on, she might have been his victim!" Mo Sha, covered in blood, growled in a low voice.

    He didn''t care about the Reincarnation Wick; his concern was whether this silver-haired youth had dishonored the young goddess.

    "Shut up! You''re the ones with dirty minds! Moon Bro and I were ying innocently." Qi Qiqi, who had been cheerful, now burst into tears of injustice upon hearing these usations.

    "You three are a disgrace; stop embarrassing yourselves here and get out," the man in the ck robe said coldly.

    "Father!"

    "Leave!" As the man in the ck robe roared, Shi Chan, Mo Sha, and Zhao Yichen could only depart in pain, casting venomous looks at Moon Fairy as they went.

    "They got off lightly," Moon Fairy muttered.

    ¡°Qiqi, I won''t disturb your ytime any longer.¡± The man in the ck robe gave Qi Qiqi a slight smile before turning to leave.

    Qi Qiqi wanted to say more, but he moved quickly. She pouted, feeling a bit wronged, and turned to Moon Fairy. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. They''re my friends, but today they were too much. How could they speak so thoughtlessly?¡±

    Moon Fairy shook his head and smiled gently. ¡°I should be the one apologizing; I''ve hurt your friends, after all.¡±

    ¡°No need, no need. I''m the one mad at them! They''re real bullies!¡± Qi Qiqi huffed.

    Moon Fairy chose not to dwell on it and changed the subject, ¡°Qiqi, let¡¯s continue to absorb the destion! Let¡¯s improve together.¡±

    ¡°Okay! I also want to advance to the Fourth Baptism Realm soon and be a Colonel,manding a battalion of 1,000!¡± Qiqi giggled.

    Moon Fairy chuckled, looking at this naive and charming girl, thinking to himself, ¡°Innocence is truly wonderful.¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Outside the Great Dry Well, after sending the three youngsters away, the man in the ck robe turned to an old man reading a book. ¡°me God, have you been keeping an eye on Qiqi and Moon Fairy?¡±

    ¡°I have. They y quite well. What about it?¡± The me God looked up, adjusting his me-scorched reading sses.

    ¡°That little fox has the power to save the Reincarnation Wick, which ismendable. But foxes are cunning and unpredictable, and Qiqi is overly naive. I''m afraid if they y together too much, it might negatively affect her,¡± the man in the ck robe said.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine; I¡¯ve been keeping watch,¡± the me God responded calmly.

    ¡°Alright,¡± the man in the ck robe nodded, then added, ¡°Thank you. I must also remind the Destion Marshal.¡±

    Histter remark implied that if the me God didn¡¯t intervene, the Destion Marshal surely would, as Qi Qiqi was her precious daughter.

    ¡°Go ahead,¡± the me God said.

    ¡°Do you know where the Destion Marshal might be?¡± asked the man in the ck robe.

    ¡°I do not,¡± the me God replied.

    ¡°Seems she just left?¡± The man in the ck robe shook his head, sighed, and then suddenly added, ¡°Although he doesn¡¯t get along with the Destion Marshal, Qiqi is still the apple of his eye. Rumor has it that she¡¯s already arranged a royal marriage for her to elevate his status among the beasts. While Moon Fairy can save themon folk, he¡¯s no five-colored qilin. If that fox truly angers her, not even 10,000 lives would suffice.¡±

    After listening, the me God looked up again, smiled faintly at the man in the ck robe, and pointed outside, saying, ¡°The door is that way.¡±

    The man in the ck robe pursed his lips, then bowed and backed away.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    An hour passed before Moon Fairy emerged from the Great Dry Well. He had absorbed too much destion and was burning with an unvented fury. He was not one to hold it in.

    So, Moon Fairy found an excuse to bid Qi Qiqi a temporary farewell, longing to rest a while back at the Northern Hall.

    Qi Qiqi, too tired, nned to return to the Southern Hall to find her mother.

    "See you tomorrow, Moon Bro!" The young girl had transformed into her human form and stood at the entrance of the Marshal''s Base, smiling and waving at Moon Fairy.

    In the form of a barefooted, silver-haired youth, Moon Fairy waved back at Qi Qiqi and hurried toward the Northern Hall.

    Soon after, he arrived at the eerily silent Northern Hall. As he entered, he called out, "Colonel, where are you?"

    Before heading to the Great Dry Well, he had instructed Lin Daiyuan to stay put here. After calling out, he loosened his robe and proceeded deeper into the Northern Hall. To his chagrin, the ck Brute Bear didn''t answer him.

    "Where have you gone?" Moon Fairy called out for a while, but it was clear there was no one around.

    "That girl has quite the nerve. She''s been tasked with protecting me. Yet, she dares to wander off?"

    Moon Fairy''s irritation red. Bears were indeed hard to tame! After all, they were naturally wild! However, it was this kind of challenge that made things interesting; otherwise, he might quickly grow bored.

    "I''ll speak with the Destion Marshalter and report you for dereliction of duty!" Moon Fairy huffed, deciding to find a ce to consolidate his cultivation on his own.

    Just then, he thought he heard a deep chant echoing from the depths of the Northern Hall.

    "Who? Isn''t the Northern Hall supposed to be my personal quarters? Who''s here?

    Moon Fairy''s gaze grew cold as he moved barefoot toward the source of the disturbance. As he drew closer, the smell of blood grew stronger, mingled with an oddly sweet fragrance. The subdued cries of pain also became clearer.

    "Who is it, really?"

    At the end of the corridor, a ck door appeared, slightly ajar, with faint glimmers of crystalline white light seeping through.

    "They''ve noticed me."

    The cessation of the gentle moaning indicated as much to Moon Fairy. Deciding to confront the situation directly, he strode forward and knocked.

    "Come in." A soft voice beckoned from within.

    Moon Fairy pushed the door open, and a burst of radiant light washed over him. As his eyes adjusted, he saw in the corner of the chamber a woman with multicolored long hair, sitting cross-legged on the ground, her hair cascading around her...

    The strands shone brighter where they were stained with blood, which appeared in five distinct colors. It was strangely beautiful.

    His gaze traveled upward to find her clothes torn into ribbons, exposing swathes of pale skin. Normally, such a sight would stir the blood, but Moon Fairy felt no such stirrings.

    Instead, he was taken aback by the sight of hundreds of centipede-like crimson wounds across her exposed flesh, looking like 100 blood serpents entwined around her.

    She was sitting in a pool of her own blood, herplexion deathly pale, barely clinging to life. Pain and endurance were etched deeply within her multicolored eyes.

    As Moon Fairy entered, she spoke softly, "I didn''t want Qiqi to see this. I just needed to use your Northern Hall for a bit. Lin Daiyuan left because I told her to."

    Moon Fairy bit his lip and nodded, "Yes, Marshal."

    "Mhm. Ugh¡­" The Destion Marshal groaned.

    "I should leave now," he said, preparing to turn and close the door.

    "Wait." The Destion Marshal looked up, her voice gentle, "Don''t go. Could you help me apply some medicine?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 813: Earth Spirit Flame Fruit!

    Moon Fairy paused for a moment at the request for medicine.

    "Close the door," the Destion Marshal said with difficulty, leaning against the dark wall. She pulled out a white jade Bag of Holding and held it out to Moon Fairy.

    "I am at your service, Marshal."

    With no room to refuse, Moon Fairy stepped forward.

    Up close, the ghastliness of the Destion Marshal¡¯s bloodied wounds was stark¡ªlikely the work of a barbed whip or chain, a sight that struck the heart with horror.

    Such wounds, spread over such a pristine body, unavoidably stirred pity. Who would dare mar such divinity?

    This was the Destion Marshal, themander of a 1,000,000-strong army. Who could dare wound her so?

    Moon Fairy took the white jade Bag of Holding and asked, "What should I do?"

    Bearing the pain, the Destion Marshal whispered, "It contains an Earth Spirit me Fruit. Do you know how to use it?"Moon Fairy shook his head.

    "The Earth Spirit me Fruit is a Burying Heaven grade spiritual fruit. Just twist and extract the juice, and drop it on the wounds. It will heal a demon''s flesh quickly, leaving no scars," the Destion Marshal exined,

    "Understood." Moon Fairy nodded. He focused on the Bag of Holding in his hands, opened it, and reached inside.

    "This Earth Spirit me Fruit feels so odd?" Moon Fairy lifted it out for a closer look. What he held was not a fruit, but a piece of close-fitting armor that even bore a fragrance.

    "Marshal, what is this?" asked Moon Fairy, puzzled.

    Caught in her own agony, the Destion Marshal nced at the armor and her expression turned strange. "I grabbed the wrong Bag of Holding. Give it back."

    "Of course." Moon Fairy returned the armor smoothly, dispelling the awkwardness.

    The Destion Marshal then produced another Bag of Holding, identical to the first.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Moon Fairy searched through this new bag and easily retrieved a fiery red jade box.

    The Destion Marshal nodded upon seeing it, and Moon Fairy opened it.

    Inside the box was a fiery red cucumber-like celestial fruit, its dense fragrance filling the room like a living being, instantly warming the enclosed space.

    "Twist directly?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "Yes, drip it on the wound," the Destion Marshal instructed.

    Moon Fairy moved closer to her side, his hands grasping the thorny Earth Spirit me Fruit, its surface bristling with tiny, painful spines if squeezed too tightly.

    The stronger the body, the higher the quality of celestial fruit or elixir needed to repair it.

    The Destion Marshal adjusted her position, allowing Moon Fairy to apply the fruit''s essence to her back, a spot she had struggled to reach herself.

    "Marshal, forgive my intrusion," Moon Fairy said.

    "No, no. I should be thanking you," the Destion Marshal responded.

    Without further words, Moon Fairy tried to wring the fiery red juice from the fruit.

    As it sshed upon her wounds, her torn flesh began to twitch and regenerate, visibly knitting itself whole again at a miraculous pace. The effect was remarkable.

    With practiced ease, Moon Fairy continued the application.

    As her wounds healed, the Destion Marshal''s vitality visibly improved; herplexion regained its rosiness, her vibrant, multi-colored hair shimmered more intensely, and her once scar-riddled back under his careful ministrations now glowed anew, without leaving a single scar.

    Beneath the tattered gown, her wless back curved delicately, the charged atmosphere around the searing heat of the Earth Spirit me Fruit almost igniting more than just physical healing.

    Yet, Moon Fairy harbored no improper thoughts; once his task waspleted, he stepped aside, turning his back to preserve the solemnity of their interaction.

    The chamber was alive with a luminous energy.

    Shortly, the Destion Marshal donned a suit of pitch-ck armor, sealing her elegance within this imposing shell, a helmet recing her delicate demeanor with one of sheer valor.

    "Turn around," shemanded.

    Moon Fairy faced her once again, now an imposing figure of martial grace.

    ¡°Don''t speak of today''s affairs to anyone," the Destion Marshal cautioned sternly.

    "Don''t worry, Marshal, I understand," he nodded.

    "Good," she acknowledged, then added, "Thank you for the help."

    "It was nothing, just a trivial task," Moon Fairy replied, his expression turning wry, recalling simr <em>trivial tasks </em>back at the Harmony Divine Pce.

    The Destion Marshal afforded him a slight smile before heading toward the door.

    Just as she was about to exit, Moon Fairy spoke up, "Marshal, youmand the Destion Corps, who would dare harm you? As a member, I wish someday to avenge this insult on your behalf."

    The Destion Marshal paused, then turned to look at Moon Fairy. "I ept your sentiment. But let''s talk about it when you''ve grown up a bit more."

    "How will I know when I''m grown up?" Moon Fairy asked.

    "You''ll need the battle strength of at least the Sixth Baptism Realm," the Destion Marshal replied calmly. "Take your time, even for a demon, there¡¯s no need to rush."

    "Understood," Moon Fairy nodded.

    With a knowing smile at his youthful and earnest face, the Destion Marshal turned and left.

    After she had gone, Moon Fairy looked down at his hands, which were bright red and emitting wisps of intense heat due to his handling of the Earth Spirit me Fruit.

    "What a bastard. Who would beat their own wife and with such cruelty¡ªutterly inhuman," Moon Fairy thought contemptuously to himself.

    It seemed the Destion Marshal was used to this kind of treatment. No wonder she kept her child away from their father.

    Muttering to himself, Moon Fairy walked out to sit in the center of the Northern Hall, resting and waiting in silence.

    Soon, a striking figure eight feet tall appeared at the doorway. Her long hair cascaded over her shoulders, and she moved with a grace thatmanded attention.

    When she saw Moon Fairy, her expression tightened.

    Moon Fairy sat on the ground, tapping on the floor, watching her coldly. "Crawl over here," hemanded.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, within the Harmony Divine Pce¡­

    Atop the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs, talents from the Snow, Ice, and Sea Lineages gathered.

    The selection for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was about to begin.

    Before the event, the area was bustling, and a host of celestial maidens chattered excitedly.

    And the hottest topic was undoubtedly the recent rise of the 9-Star prodigy from the Snow Lineage, Feng Yao.

    "She¡¯s here!"

    "The Diva of the Snow Lineage has personally escorted her!"

 Chapter 814: Whats She Showing Off For?

    In the spotlight, Feng Yao stepped forward as one of the disciples chosen for today''s selection.

    All eyes on the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs fell upon her in that moment.

    For that brief instant, she even outshone the revered Snow Lineage Diva standing beside her...

    Such an enchanting and profound Yin Devil was rare in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Her lofty stature made her stand out like a crane among chickens.

    "Could she truly possess the talent of a 9-Star Boundless Immortal?"

    Her presence, under such scrutiny, inevitably stirred waves of doubt among the disciples of the Sea and Ice Lineages. Envy and discontent were in in many of their gazes.

    They all knew Feng Yao came from outside the Harmony Divine Pce, her maternal lineage unclear. She''d just joined the day before, and her background was not esteemed. Yet, she stood above them, an ufortable truth for many.

    This was especially a sore spot for some of the noble-born prodigies from the Harmony Divine Pce!

    "All three Divas have arrived!"Around the fighting stage in the center of the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs, three tforms loomed, one for the Divas, Valkyrie Queens, and Valkyrie Princesses of the Ice, Snow, and Sea Lineages.

    Today¡¯s event was far more prestigious than any selection into the Harmony Pce, so much so that even the valkyries could not ascend these tforms but had to maintain order around the stands just like the disciples.

    After the Snow Diva took her ce on the highest seat of the Snow tform, Feng Yao waited below it, surrounded by several battle-ready disciples from the Snow Lineage.

    However, they did not interact with her at the moment. Was it out of shame, or perhaps defiance? This was a battlefield of women, more cold than heated.

    From everypeting celestial maiden''s eyes, one could see a fierce, burning desire to win the selection and represent the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm at the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects!

    So, the air around the fighting stage was anything butcking in a stern aura.

    "The Samsara Gxy with 18 Ster Rivers and over 10,000 sects, converging to decide on a supreme talent. Who wouldn¡¯t want to stand out, to resound across the Samsara Gxy, to be a monument in their own homnd?"

    Imagining sess and fame, winning today¡¯s battle was merely the first step.

    "How is everything organized?¡± Yun Xiao asked. His voice came from the Mortal Dust Devil Seed within the War Princess'' heart.

    His true form was busy cultivating, while part of his spirit was tending to the Destion Marshal and administering the Earth Spirit me Fruit.

    ¡°There are 64 contenders,peting for eight spots in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. So, just three rounds,¡± Feng Yao exined sinctly.

    ¡°Breaking out of this cursed ce is up to you,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°Really?¡± Feng Yao scoffed coldly. ¡°Do you really want to leave? You seem quitefortable here, with a Diva waiting on you.¡±

    ¡°One can eat messy, but should speak carefully,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°You¡¯re getting defensive.¡±

    ¡°Defensive? Why would I need to be defensive towards you?¡±

    ¡°Hmm.¡±

    Soon, the selection for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects officially began!

    The first round of battles determined the top 32.

    The second round narrowed it down to the top 16.

    The third and final round would decide the top 8, who would represent the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm as celestial prodigies.

    To be among these 64 contenders was to have passed through numerous trials, each a peak talent of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    ¡°Contestants, prepare!¡±

    Presiding over the selection was the Snow Lineage¡¯s Valkyrie Queen, Cang Xue.

    This breathtakingly beautiful Valkyrie Queen with a serpentine tail hovered above the fighting stage, a striking figure herself.

    It was her who had meddled with the War Princess during the test with the real Harmony Crown.

    ¡°Fight in order of your number, first match, #1 vs. #64.¡±

    To prevent early shes among favored contestants, the Harmony Divine Pce had divided thepetition into eight groups, each containing eight contestants. These eight were tiered by strength, with typically one or two true prodigies per group.

    The elite talents favored by the upper echelons generally had an easy path slicing through thepetition.

    Although Feng Yao was immensely talented, her youth andck of a strongbat record meant her inclusion was more about giving her a chance to shine rather than a serious bid for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    So in her group, she was not the top seed. She was fourth in her group, neither high nor low.

    In the first round, 32 individual battles unfolded, each steeped in solemnity.

    Every woman from the Harmony Divine Pce wore a habitual expression of cold, detached frost as they watched the proceedings.

    This frigid atmosphere left Feng Yao no choice but to silently observe the fights, waiting for her turn to enter the fray.

    Once the battles began, the murmurs about her ceased.

    "No wonder the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is a Category 3 world; the level ofpetition is indeed high," Feng Yao remarked.

    "This is just a microcosm of the entire Samsara Gxy," Yun Xiao replied.

    "I wonder how many more worlds there are?" Feng Yao curiously asked.

    "Focus on the path before you," Yun Xiao advised.

    "Ah, preaching again, how boring," Feng Yao huffed.

    "You''re the one daydreaming. Not me," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Whatever..." Just then, Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue announced, "Next battle, Contestant #38 Feng Yao against Contestant #27 Yan Qingyuan."

    "Your number suits you, not too high, not too low, just mid," Yun Xiao teased.

    "I knew you''d say something like that¡ªno creativity," Feng Yao chuckled.

    As her name echoed, she once again became the center of attention,

    Countless female gazes fell on her face, neck, torso, and long legs... as if scrutinizing her every aspect, eager to spot any imperfection to prove she was wed.

    It was like a trial by stares!

    Fortunately, Feng Yao was thick-skinned and oblivious to the doubts pressing on the other women¡¯s hearts. She strode naturally, her long legs carrying her onto the fighting stage, waiting for her opponent.

    "How can this 9-Star prodigy seem so carefree?"

    "She''s even smiling foolishly, looks like she''s not too bright..."

    "Typical, don''t those manscum like those ditzy airheaded types? The dumber, the better?"

    Feng Yao, usually cheerful, was taken aback by such odd remarks. With her temperament, she quickly grew irate.

    "I haven''t even done anything yet, and they''re already putting me down. What do they gain from this?" Feng Yao wondered aloud, unable to grasp the reason.

    "A sense of superiority, to mask their envy of your talent," Yun Xiao responded.

    "You seem to understand it well!" Feng Yao remarked.

    "It''s just another facet of human nature."

    As they spoke, Feng Yao''s opponent ascended the fighting stage. She was a young woman in a blue dress, with short hair and narrow eyes, not particrly pleasant to look at, giving off a sharp, tomboyish air.

    Yet, in the Harmony Divine Pce, she was incredibly popr. A host of beautiful young maidens gathered below, shouting her name fervently.

    "Yan Qingyuan, defeat her!"

    Feng Yao''s talents were renowned across the realm, but herbat prowess remained untested.

    Everyone was eager to see for themselves!

    Despite being only 18 years old, the crowd expected extraordinary feats from her, worthy of her talents.

    "Yan Qingyuan?" Feng Yao looked at the short-haired woman in blue, feeling as though she had heard that name before.

    "A 9-Star prodigy, huh? My apologies in advance," Yan Qingyuan said, her voice hoarse and stern.

    "What''s your cultivation?" Feng Yao asked casually.

    "Taiji Disciple, Early Third Baptism Realm," Yan Qingyuan replied.

    Being a Taiji Disciple in the Harmony Divine Pce already set her apart from countless others in the Samsara Gxy. Ascending to higher celestial ranks in the future seemed almost certain.

    "Let¡¯s begin," Feng Yao said upon hearing this.

    Her tone carried a pride that made Yan Qingyuan frown slightly.

    Below, some of the celestial maidens had a fierce glint in their eyes.

    "Just 18 years old and already so arrogant?"

    "Sure, she''s a supreme talent. But acting so grand in ten years might be more fitting. Now, she just seems like a brat reaching for too much."

    "Don¡¯t speak too soon. Her talents were privately tested by the Snow Lineage¡ªwhether there''s any trickery, who knows?"

    "Besides, the death of geniuses isn¡¯t umon..."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Amid these whispers, Yan Qingyuan, true to her creed of decisive and swift action, made her move!

    <em>HUM! </em>In her hand appeared a Sword Soul. She was a Sword Immortal!

    Behind her, the Corona began to rotate, resembling a sea of swords.

    The Sword Soul, sporting 200 Sword Prisons, glowed with waves of blue light.

    When the sword moved, blue snow scattered, freezing the world around her.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Whatever..." Just then, Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue announced, "Next battle, Contestant #38 Feng Yao against Contestant #27 Yan Qingyuan."

    "Your number suits you, not too high, not too low, just mid," Yun Xiao teased.

    "I knew you''d say something like that¡ªno creativity," Feng Yao chuckled.</blockquote>

    <strong>Going to break my rule about footnotes for once. Basically, the number 38 phically sounds like the word <em>bastard</em> in Chinese. Obviously, that doesn''t trante well directly. So, the alternative is to localize it.</strong></blockquote>

 Chapter 815: The Three Sisters From Before!

    "Again, my apologies!" Yan Qingyuan held the blue Sword Soul, her feet tapping lightly, transforming her into a gust of bluish snowstorm, swirling towards Feng Yao.

    Her sharp decisiveness for a moment drew a burst of admiration.

    "You use a sword?" Feng Yao''s blood-red eyes nced at her opponent, her lips curling into a faint smile.

    Then, she dered, "Fine, I''ll use a sword too!"

    Reaching up, she grasped the Sanguine Spirit Dragon Corona above her head. With a roar from the dragon, the Corona condensed into a crimson sword in her hand.

    "Go." With a casual flick, Feng Yao sent the blood sword slicing through the air, rapidly shooting towards Yan Qingyuan.

    Yan Qingyuan¡¯s eyes widened!

    <em>KLANG! </em>The blood sword struck the tip of her Sword Soul.

    The terrifying power of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood swept over her, mming into her with ferocity.She shuddered violently, retreating in flight, blood spurting from her mouth as she tumbled from the fighting stage.

    Her Sword Soul, now tainted with devil blood, emitted billows of smoke and showed signs of cracking, causing waves of soul-piercing pain.

    "You have my thanks," Feng Yao said, retrieving the blood sword which transformed back into a blood dragon, coiling around her. The beauty intertwined with the dragon presented a fiery, dominant aura, seemingly unconquerable.

    Her effortless stance momentarily subdued everyone present.

    "An Early Third Baptism Realm Taiji Disciple was overwhelmed?"

    "What''s her cultivation?"

    "My master suggests that her power only consists of two kinds of cmities."

    "She''s only in the Second Baptism Realm?"

    Those who had doubted Feng Yao¡¯s celestial gifts now fell silent.

    "Heh." This was exactly the effect Feng Yao sought. To silence the chatterers, dare they murmur again. "Did that p to the face ring clear enough?"

    Feng Yao''s ability to punch above her weight became even more apparent to those who stood mightier; they saw it most clearly.

    The Ice and Sea Lineage Divas watched with solemn faces; they never doubted that the Harmony Crown could be mistaken.

    At this pivotal moment in power, Feng Yao showcased a genius that transcended all! Who else would dare to challenge her?

    Satisfied, Feng Yao left the fighting stage with a smile. ¡°No wonder he boasts, it really is exhrating.¡±

    Watching those catty women, once stern and scrutinizing, now dumbstruck as simpletons, amused her greatly.

    Then, the end of the battles drew near.

    The first round was not slow; soon after, the top 32 were decided.

    In the swift and decisive manner of the Harmony Divine Pce, the second roundmenced immediately!

    This time, Feng Yao was quicker to enter the fray. Her opponent was clearly stronger than Yan Qingyuan, being at least third in her group!!

    ¡°Yan Xunfeng?¡± Feng Yao examined the mature female Immortal in a ck dress before her.

    Though her style differed from Yan Qingyuan¡¯s, exuding a sultry yet aloof charm, their facial features bore some resemnce.

    ¡°Are you rted to Yan Qingyuan?¡± Feng Yao casually inquired.

    ¡°She¡¯s my younger sister; I¡¯m the eldest,¡± Yan Xunfeng smiled.

    ¡°So, might I encounter your second sister next?¡± Feng Yao asked with a chuckle.

    ¡°If you defeat me, it¡¯s indeed possible,¡± Yan Xunfeng replied with a mysterious smile. ¡°But she¡¯s tough to handle. If all goes as expected, she¡¯ll represent the Harmony Divine Pce at the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.¡±

    ¡°All in the same group?¡± Feng Yao couldn¡¯t help butugh and cry at the arrangement. ¡°What an interesting setup! Then, are you a Martial Immortal?"

    ¡°Yes,¡± Yan Xunfeng nodded.

    ¡°Fine! Then I''ll face you in closebat,¡± Feng Yao stated tly.

    The game was on again!

    ¡°As you wish!¡± Yan Xunfeng was not one for idle chatter. After these words, she gestured with her hand, moving like the profound depths of an ocean, vast and boundless.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As she moved, it was as though a vast ocean surged towards the War Princess, bearing down with immense pressure.

    Despite her slender arms, the three types of cmities within her, all rted to the deep sea, endowed each punch and kick with the power to move mountains and shift seas.

    Martial Immortals relied even more on celestial weapons!

    Yan Xunfeng wielded a massive fan in her hand, its edges as sharp as a great de, capable of shing, sweeping, and smothering with at least the divine might of the Upper Sealing Heaven grade!

    ¡°She¡¯s fierce,¡± Feng Yao chuckled softly. Then, she blurred into motion. Like a crimson storm, she whirled up her Mortal Dust Devil Blood and hurled it towards Yan Xunfeng!

    She soared, agile as a dragon. Her long legs, nearly as tall as many a maiden, whipped through the air like twin blood dragonshes, stirring up a tempest!

    This was a celestial kicking technique, exclusive to Martial Immortals!

    It was called the Blizzard Kick Technique.

    It was an almost abandoned and forgotten technique in the Snow Lineage, but Feng Yao, having observed it, modified and now unleashed it.

    She had learned this move for emergencies, nning to shatter Yun Xiao with these legs!

    With her body forged from Mortal Dust Devil Blood and such lengthy limbs, her innate talent was indeed extraordinary!

    Facing a Late Third Baptism Realm Martial Immortal, Feng Yao closed in like an enraged dragon, sweeping, shing, and kicking ferociously. Like a bloody blizzard, she bombarded Yan Xunfeng repeatedly!

    How these women appeared to others, Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t say, but from his perspective, watching those long legs whip around was quite a sight. Especially as she moved, flipping and turning in grand, heart-stopping waves...

    "Ha!" With a whip-like kick, her leg swept up half the sky in bloody snowkes, smashing against Yan Xunfeng¡¯s giant fan.

    With a thunderous boom, Yan Xunfeng couldn¡¯t withstand the sheer physical onught. The giant fan crashed against her, sending her spitting blood and, like her sister, flying off the tform to defeat!

    ¡°What a formidable physique¡­¡±

    ¡°She hasn¡¯t even trained much, yet she¡¯s stronger than a Martial Immortal. Is this what they call talent?¡±

    "Impressive."

    In two consecutive battles, Feng Yao had showcased her versatility and omnipotence, stunning the entire arena.

    "The key point is, she''s only in the Second Baptism Realm and has already defeated some in the Late Third Baptism Realm. How much higher can she go?"

    Disbelief rippled through the crowd.

    The gazes cast upon Feng Yao no longer held doubt but had begun to breed a hint of reverence.

    Only through battle could true submission bemanded!

    The moment Yan Xunfeng was defeated, the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs fell eerily silent!

    As Yan Xunfeng crashed to the ground, two figures swiftly approached, one on each side, to aid her.

    "Big sister¡­"

    The woman on the left was Yan Qingyuan, who had been defeated in the first battle and still looked somewhat pale.

    The woman on the right was distinctly different!

    She was a young girl in an orange dress, her demeanor and authority clearly surpassing her sisters. Her narrow eyes brimmed with unmistakable ferocity and pride.

    "It seems Feng Yao is set to go up against Yan Feixue for a spot in the top 8."

    "Feng Yao is so young, and she wants to attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects?"

    "Let¡¯s see if she can get past Yan Feixue first. Yan Feixue is in the Establishment stage of the Third Baptism Realm, just one step away from being a Samsara Disciple! Plus, she¡¯s a disciple of a Valkyrie Queen, and she''s also lit up 7 Yin Stars on the Harmony Crown in the past!"

    "Since entering the Harmony Divine Pce, Yan Feixue has been personally guided by the Valkyrie Queen, unlike her two sisters."

    Whispers and murmurs rose anew.

    "Yan Feixue?" Feng Yao stood on the tform, locking eyes with Yan Feixue.

    These three names always sounded odd to her!

    "Have you not remembered yet?" Yun Xiao asked, incredulous.

    "Who are they?" Feng Yao said, impatiently.

    "When we first arrived in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the woman we killed, she sent out three flying talismans to her three sisters," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Damn, it''s them!" Feng Yao finally remembered.

    Back then, those four youths had blurted out these three names.

    She hadn¡¯t expected to encounter them here, in the selection...

    "You said those talismans were sent in a hurry, surely they didn¡¯t have time to describe our features in detail, right?" Feng Yao said nervously.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "I don¡¯t know. So far, it seems they haven¡¯t noticed anything off about you," Yun Xiao replied.

    "That¡¯s good¡­" Feng Yao breathed a sigh of relief. Otherwise, if they revealed that she had an uncleansed ve with her, embracing and cuddling, that would be a real mess.

 Chapter 816: Im Not Running, Its a Strategic Retreat!

    Atst, it was the third and final round, from the top 16 to the top 8.

    In this group, the War Princess and Yan Feixue were indeed thest two standing.

    Strikingly, Yan Feixue''s two sisters were Sword Immortals of the Ice Lineage and Sea Lineage, but she herself shared the same lineage as Feng Yao.

    Both were of the Snow Lineage!

    Even more coincidental was that Yan Feixue''s master was none other than today''s presiding Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue!

    None of the three Divas had taken disciples. So, the pairing of a 7-Star Valkyrie Queen talent and a legitimate Valkyrie Queen was considered the pinnacle of master-disciple rtionships at Harmony Divine Pce, the envy of all.

    The final round of the selection for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was set to begin as scheduled.

    Feng Yao and Yan Feixue, the first pair in thebat sequence, stepped into the fighting stage under the deration of Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue.

    The confrontation between these two diverse and devilishly beautiful Immortalbatants immediately captured everyone''s attention!"Yan Feixue is already in the Establishment Third Baptism Realm, just one step away from bing a Samsara Disciple. If Feng Yao can still stand against her, she can essentially go toe-to-toe with people a whole realm above her!"

    "The chances are slim!"

    "Yan Feixue herself is also able to fight above her level. Who could possibly leap over her by a whole realm?"

    ording to themon sense of this world, this was an impossible feat. So, this battle drew all eyes. What were the limits of this 9-Star prodigy inbat? Everyone was curious!

    The fighting stage had be an icy vortex at that moment, with Feng Yao and Yan Feixue at its center, drawn in by the storm, their dresses fluttering.

    To be precise, only Yan Feixue''s long dress billowed about, since Feng Yao''s attire, being more fitted, hardly stirred. Only her long hair flew about!

    Yan Feixue, beautiful as a snow goddess, her eyes frosty, stared at the War Princess and said, "Feng Yao, even though I know you are a 9-Star talent with a grand future, it''s still too early for you to attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. So, I will not hold back. I will fight with all my might to earn the glory for Harmony Divine Pce."

    "No need for courtesies, the selection is fair. Age does not matter here; strength is what we honor," Feng Yao dered.

    "Well said!" Yan Feixue nodded, her eyes aze with a fiercer spirit. The three types of tribtion power erupted from her, and though they were two at the Defying Heaven grade and one at the Sealing Heaven grade¡ªlesser in qualitypared to Feng Yao''s¡ªher cultivation surpassed Feng Yao by six stages, vast as the deep sea, still possessing a wild, oppressive power.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The three cmities converged behind her, linking with the Corona, which then transformed spectacrly, evolving from a simple halo into an ice-blue phoenix of snow!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Above her, the ice phoenix spread its wings, letting out a chilling cry that swept a frosty air across the fighting tform, plummeting the temperature. The entire surroundings were plunged into a snowy realm.

    "How fitting!" Feng Yao''s fighting spirit surged. Atst, a worthy challenge had appeared.

    Even Yan Feixue''s Corona served a simr function as hers. And her cultivation was just slightly above the threshold Feng Yao could challenge.

    So, Feng Yao wasn¡¯t certain of victory!

    "Yan Feixue is strong¡­"

    "We of the human race are after all the orthodox..."

    No sooner had Yan Feixue demonstrated her power than some skeptics sneered.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Amidst their murmuring support, Yan Feixue pointed a delicate finger, and at the center of her brow, an ice-blue Life Sigil emerged in her palm, depicting a phoenix as well. It contained 350 Rune Prisons. Countless Runes formed miniature arrays within, making this Life Sigil a congregation of 350 worlds of snow and ice!

    At that moment, Yan Feixue''s face was a mask of frost, like a goddess born of the snow.

    "Snow Phoenix Sigil!"

    "Truly a Life Sigil of the Burying Heaven grade!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Impressive¡­"

    Murmurs, hushed and tactful, tinged with a hint of distaste, floated through the air.

    Yan Feixue was utterly absorbed in the atmosphere of the battle!

    "Feng Yao, do you n to fight me like an Inscription Immortal too?" she asked, her gaze cool as she looked up at the War Princess.

    Her question stemmed from the fact that Feng Yao had defeated her younger sister with the sword and overcame her older sister in closebat.

    Feng Yao responded nonchntly, "No, not anymore."

    "Oh? I thought you might," Yan Feixue chuckled lightly.

    Feng Yao tilted her head, gazing down from her lofty height with a hint of disdain.

    "My apologies."

    Such a gaze was unbearable for Yan Feixue. She moved! The Ice Phoenix Corona pped its wings, soaring high and then swooping down!

    Holding the Snow Phoenix Sigil in her hand, she used it as an amplifier for her celestial techniques. As the three types of tribtion power poured into the Life Sigil, it surged with divine light, unleashing a tumultuous tide of snow, like an avnche, thundering resoundingly.

    "What a presence!" Feng Yao watched, her brows slightly furrowed.

    The sh between the two was like a dragon battling a phoenix!

    Just when everyone thought Feng Yao, known for her fierce style, would continue as in her previous battles and meet Yan Feixue head-on¡­

    A sharp shift caught everyone off guard as the 9-Star prodigy suddenly retreated!

    "In a battle of geniuses, the struggle for dominance is key. Once you retreat, your momentum dissipates!" That was the instant conclusion drawn by the observing Valkyries, Valkyrie Princesses, and even Valkyrie Queens.

    Yan Feixue advanced like a snow phoenix alongside an avnche, her onught as relentless as a blizzard''s fury.

    Meanwhile, the War Princess, despite herrger delicate frame, was retreating alone towards the corner of the fighting tform. In terms of momentum, she was clearly overwhelmed.

    Suddenly, Yan Feixue''s name resonated more prominently around the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs.

    The shouts of support for her were loud, though perhaps these women were stilling to terms with respecting a Yin Devil...

    This was their moment of relief.

    To them, Feng Yao''s retreat, albeit graceful, was a sight of weakness. The only impressive aspect seemed to be her poised and dashing retreat.

    Her long legs stepped back and then, in a couple of strides, she leapt into the air!

    Before the onught of the blizzard, her long arms and legs stretched out fully¡ªundeniably a disy of powerful beauty.

    Many women paused, their thoughts interrupted by the sight of her. In such a graceful disy, Feng Yao arched like a sinuous snake through the air¡ªwhat was she intending to do?

    In the next instant, the answer was nearly upon them.

    Her left hand suddenly vibrated with a dark radiance. ck demonic scales and sharp fangs rapidly coalesced, forming a long ck war bow. This bow, majestic and massive, featured a blood-red eye at its center. Its edges were sharply defined, its demonic aura overwhelming, and its ferocity startling, like a bloodthirsty ck beast!

    As this ck war bow materialized, Feng Yao''s right hand also gathered a bloody light, swiftly producing a blood-red arrow, densely patterned with bloody marks and equally surging with a ferocious demonic aura.

    She retreated backward, soaring into the sky, her body gracefully extended. With a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other, she pulled the bowstring taut in an instant, her posture transcendent. Even from the air, she seemed to surge into the heavens, dazzling all around.

    "Heaven Devourer Bow? Heaven Devourer Arrow?"

    "Those are Upper Swallowing Heaven grade celestial weapons!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 817: Explosive Revelation!

    In the Harmony Divine Pce, the Heaven Devourer Bow And Arrow Set was renowned, recognized instantly by many.

    Indeed, only whenbined did they form aplete celestial weapon!

    The ferocious power unleashed by this demonic bow and arrow in that instant far surpassed the previous set given to Yun Xiao.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Such a celestial weapon, inherently lethal, promised destruction if one could but draw it fully!

    And Feng Yao did so with ease, pulling it back to a full crescent.

    Even more, as she drew the bow, the powers of her Sanguine Spirit Dragon and Oblivion Shadow converged upon the Heaven Devourer Arrow. Dragons swirled around the shaft, and shadows morphed upon it, transforming the arrow into a ravenous beast, fixating its deadly gaze upon Yan Feixue!

    Tagged as a shooter with natural disadvantages, Feng Yao was determined to prove herself. This time, she was all in.

    "Yun Xiao, watch closely, don''t underestimate me!" With that cry, Feng Yao unleashed all her might,unching the deadly arrow forth.

    <em>KWANG! </em>The Heaven Devourer Bow and Arrow roared like wild beasts upon release, emitting a crimson mist that shook the air, instantly drowning out Yan Feixue''s cry of shock.Silent until it struck, and when it did, it would astonish!

    "How fierce!" In the moment her belief soared, Yan Feixue was jolted awake by the explosive force of the bow and arrow.

    In the next instant, a crimson light transformed into a scarlet beast, lunging forward, bringing imminent peril!

    Yan Feixue''s scalp tingled with fear!

    "I cannot lose...!" With gritted teeth, she remainedposed.

    In that lightning-fast moment, she called back her Ice Phoenix Corona, summoning the powers of the three cmities, creating a chilling surge that rushed towards the bloodthirsty beast.

    Just as the Ice Phoenix surged forward, a Sanguine Spirit Dragon suddenly attacked from the side, mping onto the neck of the Ice Phoenix. The dragon coiled around it in an instant, its scarlet ws piercing the body of the phoenix.

    This was the War Princess'' Sanguine Spirit Dragon Corona!

    "Ah!" The suppression of her Ice Phoenix Corona triggered a turmoil in Yan Feixue''s own tribtion power, causing her to spit out a mouthful of blood.

    And in that moment, Feng Yao''s arrow struck, a deadly blow!

    "Damn it!" Yan Feixue could only grit her teeth and frantically defend with her Snow Phoenix Sigil!

    Before her, the Life Sigil transformed into a shield of phoenix feathers.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the Heaven Devourer Arrow struck this phoenix feather shield, the icy barrier shattered with a great explosion, turning into snow powder that cascaded down. The terrifying force pummeled Yan Feixue, causing her to bleed and be flung backward.

    Like her sisters before, Yan Feixue was sted out of the fighting tform,nding hard on the ground and rolling 100 meters in the snow. At her most disheveled, a noble celestial maiden with a serpent''s tail came to her aid.

    It was her master, Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue!

    Countless eyes turned to Yan Feixue. Her robe was stained with blood, her face pale, and her hands still trembling. Even the Life Sigil at her brow showed signs of fracturing.

    Clearly, she was defeated!

    Meanwhile, back on the fighting tform, the shapely genius archer in leather armornded proudly. She tilted her chin up slightly, her eyes looking down on all, exuding an air of absolute superiority.

    "Ouch, ouch, ouch..."

    Internally, Feng Yao was howling in pain, her pretty face twitching, but she gritted her teeth to maintain herposure.

    "Damn, that bowstring really snaps back, it''s killing me, wow."

    She was crying inside with pain, but to avoid giving Yun Xiao any reason to mock, and to earn the respect of everyone in the Harmony Divine Pce, she endured fiercely.

    Her lips were bitten until they bled. Yet, she still had to keep up appearances.

    "How about that? Pretty good, right?" After holding back her pain, Feng Yao bragged to Yun Xiao.

    She loved the bow and arrow too much!

    That little scoundrel always wanted her to give it up, to go forward and be a meat shield for him! But why should she?

    Just because she was tall, why couldn''t she stay back and be the delicate one? She wouldn''t have it!

    "Not bad." Yun Xiao nodded, then added meaningfully, "But you know, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood is mine, it runs through your body, so I know exactly which spot got particrly red..."

    "Stop it, I wish you''d just drop dead," Feng Yao spat, fuming. She''d put up a strong front for nothing! If Yun Xiao were right next to her, she¡¯d really felt like hitting him.

    Now, all the disciples, Valkyries, and Valkyrie Princesses were staring at Feng Yao in astonishment.

    Feng Yao, of course, continued to feign elegance, saying to Yan Feixue, ¡°Thank you for going easy on me.¡±

    With that, she winked and shed a mischievous smile at Yan Feixue. She knew that Yan Feixue had hoped to beat her!

    ¡°You¡­¡± Yan Feixue, feeling the sting of mockery, her face darkened slightly.

    ¡°You lost, that''s that.¡± Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue nced at Yan Feixue, her expression still calm, and dered, ¡°This battle is over. Feng Yao has earned the first spot for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.¡±

    Upon hearing this, many celestial maidens snapped out of their shock.

    ¡°She¡¯s incredibly strong.¡±

    ¡°Only 18 years old¡­ So young, so beautiful, and so talented.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s none who can match her¡­¡±

    This was undoubtedly humiliating for them.

    ¡°She''s alright, I guess. Though I think she looks a bit gaudy.¡±

    Perhaps that was the only <em>w</em> they could find. At this moment, on the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs, too many favored daughters of heaven were outshone by one they deemed an inferior Yin Devil.

    ¡°The Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects¡­¡±

    Amidst the crowd, Yan Feixue clenched her fists, watching Feng Yao bask in glory.

    ¡°The Yan sisters are really unlucky today, stepping stones one after the other.¡±

    "It''s a shame really. Even a 7-Star Valkyrie Queen talent like Yan Feixue is nothing more than a wallflower¡­"

    These sarcasticments were no different than kicking her while she was down, twisting and stabbing at Yan Feixue''s soul.

    "Little sister!" Yan Feixue thought of that young girl, her eyes gradually distorting.

    "Stop dreaming! You''re not even a Samsara Disciple. Even if you went to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, you''d be cannon fodder! You''re not worthy to seek glory for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!" Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue, feeling irritable, suddenly snapped at Yan Feixue.

    Unbeknownst to her, Yan Feixue didn''t care about seeking glory. Like many young women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, she merely wished to see the world beyond...

    Such dreams were cruelly crushed.

    "Master!" Yan Feixue suddenly grabbed Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue''s robe, biting her lip, "If you say I''m not worthy to seek glory for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, then Feng Yao is even less so!"

    "What nonsense are you talking about?" Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue exploded in anger.

    Tears welled up in Yan Feixue''s eyes. Her gaze sternly shifted to Feng Yao on the stage!

    She brushed past Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue and stepped back onto the fighting tform.

    "Yan Feixue,e down!" Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue felt embarrassed, her anger rising.

    But Yan Feixue knew, once she stepped back onto that fighting tform, there was no turning back. The rage in her mind had already overwhelmed her reason. The more she looked at Feng Yao, the more she hated her!

    With a swish, she suddenly pulled out a flying talisman and shouted, "I have evidence that Feng Yao has an uncleansed ve!"

 Chapter 818: Guilty of Consorting With Manscum!

    Yan Feixue held no lowly position among the disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce. As 7-Star Valkyrie Queen talent, she ranked among the top ten!

    So, within this grand event of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, her usation of an <em>uncleansed </em>ve pierced the ears of every woman present like countless flying swords.

    A collective gasp rang through the air. At first, many thought they had misheard.

    "What did she say?"

    "Something about an uncleansed ve..."

    "Good heavens!"

    "Yan Feixue, say it again!"

    The Peak of Heavenly Nymphs went into an uproar, the ice and snow seeming to melt away as each celestial maiden, great and small, faced what seemed the unforgivable horror of the age, their faces a mix of fear and outrage.

    After crossing the line, Yan Feixue realized that only by stoking the mes to their fiercest could she possibly exact her revenge and survive.So, Yan Feixue threw caution to the wind, gripped the flying talisman tightly, and with a voice louder than any, proimed, "I''ll say it again, the ve that Feng Yao brought with her has not been cleansed, and she had close contact with him. I have evidence!"

    Upon her second deration, nearly everyone listened intently, their ears perked; how could they not hear such a scandalous revtion?

    After her words, the mor on the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs froze, giving way to an absolute, eerie silence.

    Every celestial maiden¡¯s eyes twisted in horror and disbelief towards Feng Yao...

    The implications of this revtion, if confirmed true, were too terrifying to contemte.

    "Taboo! A great taboo!"

    "This is an act that shakes the foundations of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, an unforgivable sin, a desecration of the Harmony Divine Pce, a defilement of us all!"

    After the silence, the summit exploded as if struck by lightning, the eyes of every woman turned bloodshot with fury. Their most fundamental beliefs were now under tremendous siege.

    "If it were just an ordinary ve whose cleansing was overlooked, perhaps it could be overlooked."

    "But that ve, as Feng Yao''s status rose¡­ he''s been too close to the divine bodies of too many noble celestial maidens, and even to that of a 9-Star Boundless Immortal prodigy..."

    The mere thought struck a deep chord of dread in most.

    The situation was too grave!

    "Feixue!" Seeing the situation spiral beyond control, Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue hurriedly ascended the fighting tform, standing firmly by Yan Feixue''s side.

    "Master!" Yan Feixue swiftly bowed and raised the flying talisman in her hand, dering aloud for all to hear. ¡°Here¡¯s what happened! Just yesterday, my little sister, Yan Ruoxuan, was meant toe to the Harmony Divine Pce for the entrance selection process. But after sending this flying talisman, she vanished!

    "On it, she wrote that she witnessed a Yin Devil with an uncleansed ve close at hand, and it even contained a brief recording of their images. I have verified it 1,000 times, and that Yin Devil is none other than Feng Yao. I kept silent due to her formidable talents... But now, as she''s about to represent the Harmony Divine Pce in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, I fear she will bring disgrace upon the very purity of our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. I had no choice but to reveal this in public, to protect the reputation of our Harmony Divine Pce!¡±

    Yan Feixue''s ount was crystal clear. The celestial maidens listening were left dumbfounded, each drawing a sharp breath.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "You did well¡­¡±

    ¡°This could destroy our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!¡±

    ¡°Quick, disy that recording for all to see the evidence, make her confess!¡±

    After Yan Feixue spoke, the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs immediately descended into chaos.

    Those celestial maidens who had been overshadowed, humiliated, and suppressed by Feng Yao now bared their fangs, casting scornful and disdainful looks at the Yin Devil.

    Soon, harsh words filled the air.

    ¡°Has it actually been verified? Is she in the clear?¡±

    ¡°Devils are devils, savages who know neither manners nor culture.¡±

    ¡°Simply put, she¡¯s vile!¡±

    Below, Yan Xunfeng and Yan Qingyuan were surrounded by throngs of celestial maidens, all moring for details.

    ¡°Silence! Give me that flying talisman!¡± Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue¡¯s face was frosty. She shouted to quiet the crowd, then reached for the flying talisman in Yan Feixue¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Everyone quiet down! Let the Divas and Valkyrie Queen review the talisman first!¡±

    The Valkyries and Valkyrie Princesses, knowing the gravity of the situation, refrained from hastily condemning Feng Yao, choosing to stabilize the situation first. But they knew, with the uproar caused today, either Feng Yao or Yan Feixue, one of the talents, was bound for cmity.

    The truth would tell. All eyes were riveted on the flying talisman now in Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue¡¯s hands.

    Her pretty face masked with frost, she nced at Feng Yao, who stood with her hands behind her back, her expression serene, her face cool and collected. It was hard to tell whether she was flustered.

    ¡°Still putting on a brave face?¡± Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue sneered internally. Her only dissatisfaction was that Yan Feixue, her disciple, had not informed her in advance, leaving her unprepared for this confrontation.

    Fortunately, there was no difference in her disdain from the start. She had never taken kindly to this devil woman.

    Firstly, because she looked down upon Yin Devils as filthy and vile, unworthy of the hallowed sanctity of the Harmony Divine Pce. Secondly, Feng Yao''s boisterous nature was distasteful to her.

    It proved true that not everyone desired a transcendent genius to emerge within their ranks!

    After all, it might not always be to one¡¯s own benefit...

    ¡°In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, even a talent as grand as a 9-Star Boundless Immortal prodigy should not undermine the foundational principles of our realm, nor consort with the manscum!¡±

    Indeed, the higher one¡¯s status, the more imperative it became to lead by example, safeguarding both the baseline and the roots.

    If the upper beam was not straight, how could the lower beam be correct?

    Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue clutched the flying talisman, facing the multitude.

    The assembly held its breath!

    She was using a mere fraction of her celestial power to illuminate the flying talisman.

    Suddenly, a jade hand appeared out of nowhere, seizing the flying talisman.

    ¡°Who?¡± Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue''s initial indignation gave way to surprise as she turned to see a breathtakingly beautiful woman with white hair and pink eyes beside her.

    ¡°Diva¡­¡± Then, Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue could only bow deeply as the Snow Lineage Diva took away the flying talisman.

    ¡°Hand over those two as well,¡± the Snow Lineage Diva addressed Yan Xunfeng and Yan Qingyuan.

    They too were clutching flying talismans, preparing to reveal their contents when this unexpected turn stunned them.

    The Diva herself had spoken to them!

    Under normal circumstances, such an event would te them for years.

    As they stood there, dazed, the flying talismans in their hands vanished, now in the possession of the Snow Lineage Diva.

    All the celestial maidens were momentarily taken aback.

    ¡°This matter is grave; the Diva herself will judge!¡±

    ¡°If this turns out to be true, Feng Yao is in deep trouble¡­¡±

    Soon enough, Yan Feixue and the others snapped to their senses, their excitement palpable.

    Under their intense gaze, the Snow Lineage Diva held the three flying talismans, her beautiful eyes flickering as she read the contents. Her eyshes trembled! Then, without a word, she returned to her exalted seat. When she sat down, her throne was veiled in ayer of snow.

    A mist of frost clung to her face, making it impossible for themon eye to discern the turmoil beneath her eerily beautiful visage. Her face, though stunning, bore the tumult of an avnche. In those pink eyes swirled a tempest of contorted emotions, shame, hatred, sorrow, and pain.

    To the onlooker, her internal storm was unseen; they could only perceive the chill that enveloped her, a deep, piercing coldness.

    This undoubtedly substantiated the ims made by the three sisters.

    ¡°Feng Yao is truly finished now!¡±

    ¡°That despicable devil¡­ With such a look, it¡¯s clear she harbors strong desires, prone to indulgence. Such a Yin Devil, no matter how talented, cannot represent the sanctity of our Harmony Divine Pce!¡±

    The Peak of Heavenly Nymphs erupted once more, as if the verdict had been sealed.

    Soon, a torrent of criticism and curses were hurled towards Feng Yao!

    Feng Yao, with her arms crossed, watched all unfold with a detached coolness. She knew well that envy was the true reason many despised her. They hadcked a point of attack before, but now, armed with the sword of chastity, their assaults had gained ferocity.

    Every celestial maiden¡¯s word was a sword, wildly thrusting at her.

    Mostly, it was the younger female disciples who hurled the abuses.

    Some Valkyries and Valkyrie Princesses, seeing the only one who had viewed the flying talisman, the Snow Lineage Diva, remain silent and withhold judgment, were not in a hurry.

    ¡°Perhaps for the Diva, to forsake an unparalleled celestial talent is too grievous a choice.¡±

    ¡°Yan Feixue was too reckless. Had she not exposed this matter publicly, there might have been room for mediation.¡±

    ¡°Now, the Diva must be in agony!¡±

    Many Valkyries looked towards Xue Yuening.

    This elder Valkyrie, once envied by all, now saw her friends quietly distancing themselves, fearful of the repercussions.

    Tears welled in Xue Yuening¡¯s eyes as she nervously watched Feng Yao, at a loss for words.

    She had seen Yun Xiao! So, when the usations came, she too sensed something amiss about that young man. She knew, with near certainty, that Yan Feixue¡¯s allegations were true¡­

    "Ah, a shame¡­¡± Xue Yuening could only sigh, muttering with a shake of her head, ¡°These children, so envious of those better than themselves, only strike when one is down. Had this been handled differently, it wouldn¡¯t have ced such a burden on the Diva."

    On one hand were the foundational principles of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. On the other hand was a talent immense enough to herald the revival of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. How to choose?<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 819: Still Any Room For Doubt?

    "Si Ji!" The Sea Lineage Diva, her long, dark green hair flowing like ocean waves, her figure shapely and enchanting, rose from her throne. She summoned a mist from the sea and approached the Snow Lineage Diva with a frown. "Show me the flying talisman."

    Si Ji, not lifting her head, replied coolly, "No need to look."

    "Then you''re conceding by default?" The Sea Lineage Diva crossed her arms, her dark green serpentine tail coiling as she looked down upon Si Ji with a chilling tone,

    "Among the three of us, you are the youngest with the most potential to achieve boundlessness. I can indulge you in other matters, but you must think carefully about this one.

    "Having the talent of a Boundless Immortal is appealing, yes, but if her heart is not with the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, and she cannot preserve the vital purity of the Harmony Divine Pce, then it¡¯s not a benefit but a catastrophic blow to us¡ªa venom that could annihte our people!"

    Si Ji was troubled, her concerns far removed from the matters of Feng Yao. The term <em>vital purity</em> made her legs tremble with anger. She looked up fiercely and said, "I haven¡¯t agreed to anything, so stop spreading fear. I have my own way to handle this."

    "Does your agreement matter? Where is that ve? His purity orck thereof is quite apparent," the Sea Lineage Diva replied.

    "What does his purity have to do with Feng Yao¡¯s future? Feng Yao is still a virgin, and under my guidance, even if she strays slightly, there are plenty of opportunities to correct her path. I¡¯ll kill that ve, and this matter will end," Si Ji dered coldly.

    "You speak too lightly. Listen to what the children say," the Sea Lineage Diva gestured towards the virginal zealots below who were cursing Feng Yao."They curse whoever is better than them. Does their opinion matter?" Si Ji said indifferently.

    "So, you¡¯ve decided to protect Feng Yao?" The Sea Lineage Diva smirked.

    "That¡¯s my affair! Whoever disagrees cane to me," Si Ji stated.

    "Heh."

    With their disagreementsid bare, the two could not resolve the issue.

    "Si Ji." Just then, the Ice Lineage Diva, a Sword Immortal with icy blue hair, stepped forward. Her expression was calm, her gaze slightly amused as she said softly to Si Ji, "Let me have a look at that ve."

    "What''s so interesting about it?" The Snow Lineage Diva thought of this man, her irritation deepening. She nned to burn those three flying talismans straight away.

    "Just a glimpse." The Ice Lineage Diva moved closer, her lips curving into a slight smile, hinting amusement. "After that, I¡¯ll support you in protecting Feng Yao."

    The Snow Lineage Diva regarded her with a puzzled look. In her eyes, the Ice Lineage Diva was the true definition of ruthless¡ªa Sword Immortal of the Samsara Gxy known as the Frost Devil, who had in countless men with her icy de.

    Why the insistence on seeing the ve now?

    With suspicion, the Snow Lineage Diva briefly illuminated the flying talisman for the Ice Lineage Diva to see.

    "Ah..." After viewing it, the Ice Lineage Diva covered her mouth lightly, blinking at the Snow Lineage Diva and asked, "You know that old man too?"

    "What?" the Snow Lineage Diva asked, bewildered.

    Seeing her confusion, the Ice Lineage Diva smiled knowingly and nodded. "Alright, I understand what he meant."

    This left the Snow Lineage Diva even more perplexed.

    "What are you whispering about?" the Sea Lineage Diva asked, clearly annoyed, her gaze piercing towards the Ice Lineage Diva.

    The Sea Lineage Diva''s intent was clear! Si Ji should treat Feng Yao not as personal property, and she and the Ice Lineage Diva should stand together on the same front.  ?

    Even if they did not eliminate Feng Yao, they should pressure Si Ji to relinquish her control, allowing the three Divas to guide her collectively.

    This was the perfect moment to pressure Si Ji! Why waste time looking at the ve? The Sea Lineage Diva couldn¡¯t understand.

    "No rush." The Ice Lineage Diva smiled at her.

    Then, her blue gown fluttering, she descended upon the fighting tform. Her presence dominated, silencing the curses at Peak of Heavenly Nymphs instantly. The disciples¡¯ mouths seemed frozen, unable to speak.

    They could only look at the Ice Lineage Diva with eyes full of awe.

    The hearts of Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue and Yan Feixue, burned with anticipation... They knew the Ice Lineage Diva must be on their side too!

    But then the Ice Lineage Diva approached Feng Yao. She stood before Feng Yao, her delicate form shrouded in a mist of ice, enveloping them both.

    "Truly a breathtaking beauty," the Ice Lineage Diva praised, looking up at her.

    "Thank you, Diva," Feng Yao replied with a smile.

    "Hmm." After herpliment, the Ice Lineage Diva suddenly asked, "So, you are his...?"

    Yun Xiao whispered urgently in Feng Yao''s heart. "Tell her you belong to me, sent by me to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to forge a good karma."

    Feng Yao nodded and told the Ice Lineage Diva, "I am his mother, sent by him to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to build a bond of goodwill."

    "Mother?!" the Ice Lineage Diva eximed.

    "What the hell¡­" Yun Xiao retorted angrily.

    With Yun Xiao letting loose all sorts of curses in her head, Feng Yao knew her im wouldn''t hold. So, she awkwardly corrected, "Just kidding, Diva. I suppose I''m the old man¡¯s little sweetheart. He sent me here to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, saying he liked it here and wanted to find a ce for me to grow."

    "Oh! Oh¡­" The Ice Lineage Diva finally nodded, her eyes still showing traces of shock.

    "That old man truly intends to create good karma sincerely. Please be assured, my rtionship with him won¡¯t leak in such a crude way again. From now on, the world will only see me as the saintly maiden of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm," Feng Yao said softly.

    "Understood!" The Ice Lineage Diva nodded profoundly.

    Given Feng Yao''s significant origins, she had no choice but to understand. If that mighty Boundless Immortal got upset and decided to chastise the Harmony Divine Pce, the loss would be irrevocable.

    Who would refuse a gifted talent from a revered Boundless Immortal?

    "So, for today¡¯s matter, I am in your debt," Feng Yao said with a smile.

    "No trouble at all." The Ice Lineage Divaughed.

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao coughed violently in the Snow Diva Ruins.

    Just then, the Ice Lineage Diva suddenly dispersed the ice mist. She stood beside Feng Yao, turning to face Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue and Yan Feixue.

    "The judgment begins!" Yan Feixue looked at Feng Yao, a cold sneer in her heart.

    "Please, rid us of this wretched devil..."

    Beneath the fighting tform, many celestial maidens whispered among themselves, their impatience palpable. Especially the Yan sisters, their eyes wide with anticipation.

    "The truth has been unearthed," the Ice Lineage Diva dered, her gaze fixed on Yan Feixue. "In the flying talisman, Feng Yao and the ve were not intimate. The im that the ve was uncleansed is nothing but a smear born of Yan Feixue''s jealousy."

    Her words swept over the crowd like a frigid sea, freezing everyone in ce.

    "Impossible..."

    Yan Feixue, Yan Xunfeng, and Yan Qingyuan each lookedpletely dumbstruck.

    "Diva! I request that the talisman be made public..." Yan Feixue''s eyes were tearful, her face a portrait of misery as she cried out.

    Before her words could settle, a sh of sword light instantly turned her into an ice sculpture.

    <em>SLASH! SLASH! </em>Yan Xunfeng and Yan Qingyuan were also frozen among the crowd.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A gust of wind blew, and the ice sculptures shattered into frozen chunks of flesh and blood, ttering to the ground.

    In that moment, a deathly silence fell.

    It seemed as if the entire world had frozen over.

    "Cang Xue!" The Snow Lineage Diva''s cold shout from above made Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue tremble.

    "Diva, I am here." Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue knelt. She was a direct subordinate of the Snow Lineage Diva, Si Ji.

    It had been the Ice Lineage Diva who executed Yan Feixue, and now it was the Snow Lineage Diva''s turn to speak.

    "You, as a Valkyrie Queen, allowed your disciple to behave recklessly at today''s event, seeking attention. As your punishment, you are confined for one year."

    "Yes..." Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue bowed her head, her heart tearing with grief.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    There was a deep confusion and uncertainty.

    The Snow Lineage Diva''s protection of Feng Yao was anticipated, but why was the Ice Lineage Diva so ruthlessly decisive? Had the three Divas reached some sort of agreement?

    Valkyrie Queen Cang Xue looked towards thest of them, the Sea Lineage Diva, who now simply watched the other two with curious amusement.

    With her wisdom, she surely sensed something unusual in their actions, something beyond her current understanding.

    What could it be? The Sea Lineage Diva was deeply curious...

    "Continue the selection!" With those words, the Sea Lineage Diva put an end to today¡¯s drama and rified to all disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce that the Three Divas had judged Yan Feixue, concluding the matter definitively.

    It was a false usation by Yan Feixue!

    At once, the celestial maidens who had just ndered Feng Yao felt their scalps tingle, silenced by the cold fear.

    What was most terrifying was the Ice Lineage Diva''s additional remark, "When Feng Yao entered the pce, she was verified as pure. The same holds true now. If anyone else dares to nder her with usations because she''s a Yin Devil, the lighter punishment will be expulsion from the Harmony Divine Pce, and the more severe, execution on the spot!"

    This statement sent shivers down the spines of the celestial maidens. Their faces turned pale with fear! Their looks towards Feng Yao now held nothing but reverence...

    "Feng Yao, give my regards to that old man," the Ice Lineage Diva said, turning back with a gentle smile.

    "Certainly." Feng Yao nodded.

    As her voice faded, the Snow Lineage Diva, with her white hair and pink eyes, descended beside Feng Yao, saying, "We leave for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects in the morning. Follow me back to the Snow Diva Ruins to prepare."

    "Yes." Feng Yao nodded, sticking out her tongue yfully.

    The two soared up, whisking through the wind and snow.

    "Hey, this beauty seems pretty fierce. Are you sure she won''t kill you once you''re back? You sure you don¡¯t want to hide?" Feng Yao whispered, eyeing the retreating figure of the Snow Lineage Diva, questioning Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao responded, "You can hide from the first day of the festival but not the fifteenth. I''m leaving tomorrow anyway, so let''s face it a bit longer!"

    "What did you do to her, anyway?" Feng Yao was dying of curiosity, her mind in turmoil not knowing the truth.

    Yun Xiao snorted and said, "Just a trivial effort on my part, I saved her life once..."

 Chapter 820: If You Love Him, Set Him Free!

    On the road back to the Snow Diva Ruins, snow fog twined around everything like a white sanctuary.

    Ahead, the Snow Lineage Diva, Si Ji, melded with thendscape. Her white hair and the snow became one, her pale pink serpent tail fluttering in the air, her crystal gown billowing... Such a scene was nothing short of celestial splendor.

    Feng Yao, so different in essence from her, couldn''t help but envy that pure, lotus-like aura which seemed so elevated.

    Unbeknownst to Feng Yao, the devil blood within constantly refined her own natural beauty. Now, her visage and demeanor captivated more onlookers than the varied charms of the Three Divas, making others feel utterly sullied inparison.

    Especially when her emotions surged and the devil blood roiled, a rosy blush blooming over her snow-white skin made her a rare beauty, unparalleled in the world.

    ¡°That...¡± Watching the back of the Snow Lineage Diva, Feng Yao felt awkward for a long while but decided to exert some effort for her and Yun Xiao''s predicament.

    She caught up and whispered into the ear of the beauty with white hair and pink eyes, ¡°Diva, regarding what Yan Feixue mentioned, I assure you, it''s utterly baseless.¡±n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Baseless?¡± The Snow Lineage Diva nced over as she soared through the sky, her expression ghostly.

    ¡°Yes, just idle chatter¡­ no, not even that!¡± Feng Yao coughed, embarrassed, ¡°I mean, I assure you, that guy is absolutely clean, no trace of sin or taint.¡±¡°Be silent.¡± The Snow Lineage Diva gave her a look of utter speechlessness, ¡°Refrain from vulgar speech.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Feng Yao herself was frazzled, wondering where her speech had turned <em>vulgar</em>.

    ¡°Yao Yao.¡± The Snow Lineage Diva suddenly stopped, her pink eyes solemn, saying, ¡°I trust you, so you should understand how precious your assurances are.¡±

    ¡°Rest assured, if you really don''t believe me, I¡¯ll strip him for you to see with your own eyes,¡± Feng Yao said earnestly.

    She had been with Yun Xiao long enough to lie without even blinking. Her acting skills had truly been honed.

    The Snow Lineage Diva¡¯s pretty face immediately turned cold, a wave of nausea hitting her. With her exalted status, a mere ve, clean or not, was a desecration just by catching her eye.

    The problem was, once the Ice Lineage Diva made her verdict, the Snow Lineage Diva could no longer let her subordinates inspect Yun Xiao. After all, he had already entered the Snow Diva Ruins. Should it turn out he wasn¡¯t cleansed, on one hand, the sanctity of the Snow Diva Ruins would be tainted; on the other, the credibility of the Three Divas would suffer.

    So it was a sickening matter, and it troubled the Snow Lineage Diva deeply.

    The crux of it all was that the Snow Lineage Diva and the same ve shared a secret pact, unseen and unspeakable!

    Before she became a Boundless Immortal, no one was to deal with him.

    So, in the end, the secret was confined to just the two of them¡ªor at most, three.

    "Yao Yao, I ask you once more, are you truly certain?" the Snow Lineage Diva demanded, gripping her arms, her voice measured and deliberate.

    She couldn''t bear to check herself, not even at his soul. It represented the root of all evil in the eyes of all those born in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, an embodiment of sin, a venom of desire.

    "I am, absolutely, one hundred percent certain. If I lie, you may take my life!" Feng Yao dered.

    She only had to wait until tomorrow, then she and Yun Xiao could leave thisnd of women. What was there to fear?

    "Alright then..." The turmoil within the Snow Lineage Diva finally settled.

    This clearly meant that the recording carried by the flying talisman held no proof of Yun Xiao¡¯s impurity, the young girl had only suspected based on scent¡­ And recordings carried no scent.

    "But¡­" The Snow Lineage Diva¡¯s eyes narrowed, fixing Feng Yao with a stern look. "I did see that you and him were unusually close, beyond the usual bounds of mistress and ve. And, you seem to care for him deeply."

    That was the true revtion of the flying talisman!

    Yan Feixue and her two sisters intended to use the disclosure of such intimacy to urge the higher-ups of the Harmony Divine Pce to seize Yun Xiao and verify the truth on the spot... But they didn¡¯t know, with the Snow Lineage Diva present, it was simply impossible.

    As for the issue of intimacy, Feng Yao had her exnation ready.

    "It''s like this," she reflected. "When I was a child, I once nearly lost my life while out ying, and he saved me at great personal risk. I am grateful to him, and perhaps I have indeed treated him a bit too kindly. I know my status has changed now. So, from now on, I will be sure to maintain a proper distance!"

    After speaking, Feng Yao stole a nce at the Snow Lineage Diva, who still wore a face as cold as ice. Grasping her arm, she swayed it gently and said, "Though a ve might be like cattle, if such a beast shows human understanding and saves one''s life, oughtn''t we treat it a bit better?"

    The Snow Lineage Diva shook her head. "It''s not the same. Cattle are mere animals, whereas ves, cleansed of their sins, still bear taboos. They may be used or killed, but never appreciated or approached closely."

    "I understand now," Feng Yao quickly nodded, secretly pleased as she had managed to curse Yun Xiao under her breath again.

    It seemed the Snow Lineage Diva might actually believe her bluster.

    "So, regarding my ve, I''ve thought of a solution. What do you think?" Feng Yao asked.

    "Speak," the Snow Lineage Divamanded.

    Feng Yao continued, "After all, he did save me, and I can''t just watch him suffer in hister years. Also, having him around is troublesome. Aren''t we departing tomorrow for the Grand Assembly of Immortal Sects? We could take him with us and leave him somewhere to fend for himself, settling my conscience. What do you think?"

    Traditionally, ves in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were disposed of as they aged, regardless of their mistresses. Their lives were always short-lived.

    However, Feng Yao wasn¡¯t sure the Snow Lineage Diva would agree. It should have been a trivial matter. But with Yan Feixue''s interference, Yun Xiao had be a focal point, making it inconvenient for Feng Yao to remove him alone.

    So, she seized the moment to suggest it.

    Unexpectedly, the Snow Lineage Diva quickly nodded. "Returning a favor is part of your virtuous nature and your spiritual path. If releasing this ve brings you peace, then let him go."

    The phrase <em>let him go</em> was uttered almost as if freeing a wild animal.

    "Thank you." Feng Yao smiled faintly, careful not to show too much excitement.

    "There''s no need to rush. The Grand Assembly of Immortal Sects willst several days. You may keep him by your side for now," the Snow Lineage Diva said somberly.

    "Will you be attending, Diva?" Feng Yao asked curiously.

    The Snow Lineage Diva smiled ruefully. "I wasn¡¯t nning to, but now that you have obtained a ce, the emergence of a talent capable of bing a Boundless Immortal will surely draw envy. We three Divas must go to protect you closely."

    "That''s wonderful!" Feng Yao eximed joyfully.

    The matter of leaving was finally settled.

    Though happy, Feng Yao couldn''t help but wonder, "What in the world did that fellow and the Snow Lineage Diva concoct? Even if they''re setting him free, why insist on taking him to the Grand Assembly of Immortal Sects and keeping him close for a few more days?"

    It was puzzling! A ve was scorned by all, and a Diva was one of the most exalted figures of this world of women!

    How could these two, from such disparate realms, have anything inmon? The slightest slip of the tongue, and any ordinary ve would have likely been frozen solid!

    How did theye to be entangled?

    Feng Yao''s mind teemed with questions, but all she could do was offer the Snow Lineage Diva a sheepish smile.

    "Diva, about the matter of purification..." Feng Yao ventured cautiously.

    The Snow Lineage Diva, stern-faced, replied, "Since you have given your reassurance, let us not speak further of it. Tomorrow, when we depart, I will disguise him as one of the entourage. Focus on the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, and leave the matter of setting him free to me."

    "Oh, oh," Feng Yao''s eyes sparkled, "So, are you going to have him crossdress as a woman?"

    "Enough nonsense! I told you to focus!" the Snow Lineage Diva said gravely.

    "Yes, yes," Feng Yao pressed down the urge to burst intoughter, thinking to herself, "This time, my baseless assurances have averted a crisis for you; tomorrow, watching your embarrassment will be no trouble at all."

    Initially, the Snow Lineage Diva, with her formidable presence, had been determined to return to the Snow Diva Ruins, and Feng Yao had truly feared she might immediately dismember Yun Xiao upon arrival.

    But now, it seemed the Snow Lineage Diva had no intention of seeing Yun Xiao again.

    Back at the Snow Diva Ruins, she directly told Feng Yao, "I promised earlier that if you perform well at the selection for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, I would take you to the inner pool of the Harmony Divine Pool. Now you qualify."

    Hearing about the inner pool, Feng Yao forgot all about Yun Xiao and clung to the Diva''s arm, cooing, "I still need to learn more celestial techniques to prepare for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects."

    "Alright... time is pressing; I will try to teach you more tonight. You are exceptionally gifted, unlike others, and should be able to absorb the knowledge quickly," the Snow Lineage Diva said tenderly, growing fonder of her by the minute.

    "That''s right, I''m always good at suc¡­ I mean absorbing!" Feng Yao dered.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 821: Great Sea Matriarch!

    Feng Yao and the Snow Lineage Diva flew past the Snow Diva Ruins, ignoring Yun Xiao, and headed straight for the Harmony Divine Pool.

    Within the Snow Diva Ruins, Yun Xiao, who had prepared for a monumental sh, found the crisis unexpectedly defused by Feng Yao. His thoughts were in disarray.

    "Forget it, the Snow Lineage Diva is bound by a pact with me. I have the leverage here. Even if she knows I''m not cleansed, she''ll still have to put up with it for the next few days." With that thought, Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Is it possible that she knew all along, and your dear Feng Yao simply provided her a way out?" Blue Star asked with a teasing smile.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s smile froze. "No matter, as long as I can leave this cursed ce tomorrow, the vast whirlwind of the Samsara Gxy will be mine to navigate."

    The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm boasted countless beauties and breathtaking vistas, dizzying to behold.

    Yet without enough power, serving as a ve, he could do nothing but feel stifled.

    With Sister Zhao and the third Primordial Coffin lost outside, and the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects gathering 1,000,000 celestial elites in full swing, Yun Xiao grew restless!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????At the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs, the selection for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, aftersting half a day, finally concluded.

    Including Feng Yao, eight representatives from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were chosen among the elite of the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Amidst the cheers and jubtion, people seemed to forget the scandal of Feng Yao''s ve, as well as the deaths of the three Yan sisters.

    Once everything was over, the Ice Lineage Diva rose into the air. Her sword-shaped ind of ice, her blue hair flying, ready to depart.

    Just then, a rolling cold tide surged from behind.

    "Yu Ji." The Sea Lineage Diva, with her dark green hair and a body like a surging sea, appeared behind the Ice Lineage Diva, standing on her giant ice sword.

    The Ice Lineage Diva, Yu Ji, sensed her approach and turned around to face her. With a tranquil voice, she asked, "Wan Ji, what''s on your mind?"

    The Sea Lineage Diva, Wan Ji, approached with a subtle smile that did not quite reach her eyes. She feigned ease. "What''s the situation, dear sister? Do tell."

    The Three Divas of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were Si Ji of the Snow Lineage, Yu Ji of the Ice Lineage, and Wan Ji of the Sea Lineage.

    Though they rarely showed themselves, their beauty was famed across the Samsara Gxy, much discussed among countless men.

    To them, however, such talk was vile and humiliating¡ªan impudent provocation.

    "Someone was framed, and the truth was revealed. What more is there to tell?" Yu Ji replied. Of the Three Divas, she always appeared the coldest and most distant. ??

    On the other hand, Wan Ji always appeared the gentlest, with a warm and kind smile on her face. Of course, that was just on the surface.

    Wan Ji''s discontent was apparent now, her tone chilly, "For you to protect a lowly ve so fiercely, it must be a special case. Why keep just me in the dark at this point?"

    Yu Ji paused before responding, "I can''t say yet, and you shouldn''t ask. When the time is right, you''ll know. This matter won''t harm you, nor does it particrly benefit either of us. There''s no need to rush. Digging too deep could only harm you."

    Hearing this, Wan Ji''s frustration deepened. In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, what could possibly require such secrecy?

    "Could it be that Si Ji and that uncleansed ve have transgressed?" Wan Ji suddenly quipped, a coldugh escaping her.

    Yu Ji shook her head and replied sternly, "Troublees from careless talk. Of us three, you''re the eldest, with so many daughters under your care. Don''t create trouble for yourself."

    With those final words, she dissolved her giant ice sword and transformed into a shadow of frost, vanishing into the ether in an instant.

    As she departed, Wan Ji''s expression darkened significantly.

    "The two of them keeping secrets from me must mean something beyond my wildest guess..." Her frustration was palpable, like ants on a hot pan.

    Watching Yu Ji''s departing figure, Wan Ji''s annoyance only grew.

    "Congrattions, Diva!"

    At that moment, the Valkyrie Queens and Princesses stood up one after another, offering their congrattions to Wan Ji.

    "As expected, of the eight spots in the selection, the Sea Lineage Diva''s daughters secured seven spots!"

    "Of course! Each of her daughters surpass even a Valkyrie Queen in talent! All of them are Samsara Disciples too. It''s only natural they''d be extraordinary."

    The Valkyrie Queens and Princesses praised the seven young women standing behind the Sea Lineage Diva, each a mirror image of their mother with dark green hair and voluptuous figures. They bore simr faces but distinct personalities and expressions.

    In terms of beauty, these seven daughters of the Sea Lineage Diva were undoubtedly the pinnacle among the disciples of Harmony Divine Pce, each as graceful as the sea, smooth as water, lively as fish, and curvaceous as snakes...

    In temperament, some were mature and steady, others charmingly naive, some fiery and fierce, and others intellectual and serene... Together, the seven sea fairies formed a stunning spectacle of exceptional talent and formidable strength in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Yet, those at the Harmony Divine Pce knew well that these seven represented only a small number of Wan Ji''s daughters.

    The Sea Lineage Diva currently held the record for the most births in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. In her millennium of cultivation, she had spread her branches wide, now boasting 107 daughters. Her eldest daughter, already a Valkyrie Queen after 300 years of cultivation, contrasted sharply with her youngest, who was rumored to still be nursing...

    Such was the legacy of Wan Ji, a role model venerated by women throughout the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    The path of immortality dictated that the higher the cultivation, the stronger and more elite the bloodline, making the birth of talented descendants increasingly challenging. Without the Divine Spring, producing hundreds of geniuses in mere centuries as Wan Ji had would be impossible.

    This was the greatest asset of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Indeed, this realm nevercked for inhabitants. Their poption exceeded that of anyparable celestial realm by more than tenfold.

    In terms of celestial martial power, sheer numbers allowed them to rank high within the Samsara Gxy, making them a formidable force not easily trifled with.

    This time, the seven chosen young women, all under 50 years old, were just a few of Wan Ji''s eligible daughters. Her other daughters had participated in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects before...

    In the Samsara Gxy, the daughters of the Sea Lineage Diva had be a proverbial fixture. Beautiful, well-formed, highly talented, and proud¡ªeach uniquely captivating in her own right, a fact that many admired but could scarcely attain.

    As people congratted the Sea Lineage Diva, they also looked forward to her newest daughters, hoping they would enhance the prestige of Harmony Divine Pce even further...

    As for why the Ice Lineage and Snow Lineage had no contenders for the eight spots, it was simply because those Divas had yet to bear children.

    The reason was straightforward; they were still aiming to be Boundless Immortals. Desiring to ascend, they chose not to be distracted.

    Around 300 years ago, the Sea Lineage Diva had realized that such heights were beyond her reach and had instead focused on nurturing her progeny.

    Trade-offs were made.

    Though the Sea Lineage Diva had renounced her personal ambitions, her daughters, whom she had nurtured diligently, were steadily growing into their roles, supporting the future of their lineage and bearing much of the burdens for the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "Mother..."

    The seven uniquely beautiful sea maidens knelt in a row before the Sea Lineage Diva.

    "On this expedition to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, we will vie for higher honors for you, For the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and to attain supreme glory, we shall face death without regret."

    Their gazes were intense, filled with lofty dreams, as they knelt deeply, expressing gratitude for their mother''s nurturing and teachings.

    "Go forth!"

    The Sea Lineage Diva, her thoughts returning to the present, looked upon her daughters, her eyes slightly moist.

    Over the years, she had sent away many daughters¡ªto protect the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, some achieved fame and sess, others perished in foreignnds... Yet, no one ever ceased their stride.

    "Only by striking those men squarely in the face will they abandon their ambitions to conquer our realm. So, even though the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is a contest of talents, it''s also a battlefield where you defend our home and honor!"

    This time, the responsibility of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was shoulderedrgely by the Sea Lineage Diva and her daughters.

    In recent years, due to her daughters'' efforts, the rank of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm had significantly improved.

    From a low point, they had ascended to a new peak! This was her contribution! For her prodigious feat of mothering over 100 daughters, the people of the Samsara Gxy had bestowed upon her the nickname, <em>Great Sea Matriarch.</em>

    "Those two sisters of mine, I''ll find out what you two have been hiding from me sooner orter!" Wan Ji gazed towards the Snow Diva Ruins, her mind uneasy.

    Just then, a charmingly naive young woman with dark green curly hair approached the Sea Lineage Diva quietly and whispered, "Mother, the youngest is crying at home. Our 88th sister said she needs feeding."

    "Alright!" The Sea Lineage Diva bit her lip, adjusted the loose garment at her chest, and rolled back like a stormy sea returning to tranquility.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Elsewhere, the Ice Lineage Diva quietly changed her course and stealthily headed towards the Snow Diva Ruins.

    Before long, she arrived at a small cabin in the snowy field, gently knocked on the door, and softly said, "Senior, are you here? Junior Yu Ji requests an audience..."

 Chapter 822: Taboo, And More Taboo!

    "She''s here?" Yun Xiao muttered. He felt a formidable presence outside of his cabin.

    In terms of true power, the Ice Lineage Sword Diva was a figure who couldmand the winds and storms within the Samsara Gxy. With almost a millennium of cultivation under her belt, she could easily vanquish anyone in the Fourth Baptism Realm or below with ease.

    In reality, Yun Xiao should be addressing her as <em>Senior</em>. But the milk was already spilled; there was no use crying over it. With nowhere to retreat, he had no choice but to see his deception all the way through to the end.

    "It''s fine. It''s fine. I just have to hold out until tomorrow morning. Then, I can finally leave this damned ce!" Yun Xiao then swiftly tapped into his inner actor. He sat cross-legged on the floor, his posture rxed, his voice tinged with azy pleasure, "Come in."

    The door creaked open. Stepping through the snowy threshold outside, her blue hair reaching her waist and her cold yet radiant beauty transformed from a serpentine tail to jade feet, the Ice Lineage Diva approached slowly.

    Her pretty face wore a look of reverence as she slightly bowed before Yun Xiao, saying, "Senior, I apologize for the intrusion."

    "A beautiful visitor is a joy supreme; how could it be a disturbance?" Yun Xiao responded with a slight smile.

    The Ice Lineage Diva seemed momentarily flustered, managing only a timid smile in response.

    "So, your name is Yu Ji?" Yun Xiao lifted his gaze to study her beautiful face.He reminded himself that the woman before him was not the supreme sovereign of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm but merely a little girl... Only in such a guise could he maintain hisposure and exert dominance, without giving himself away.

    "Mmm. May I ask how you wish to be addressed?" the Ice Lineage Diva asked, lowering her head slightly.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s bold gaze made her feel a peculiar unease. Even in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, the powerful men there wouldn''t dare to look at her in such a way.

    "My surname is Yun; just call me Big Bro or Brother Yun," Yun Xiao replied.

    The Ice Lineage Diva shook her head. "An elder on the path of immortality is a teacher. Senior Yun is a predecessor; I wouldn''t dare to forsake etiquette."

    "As you wish." With that, Yun Xiao closed his eyes, feigning meditation. He knew she had sought him out with a purpose in mind; he was not in a hurry, letting her make the first move.

    In the quiet of the small cabin, the faint, chill fragrance that emanated from the Ice Lineage Diva became more pronounced.

    In the excessive stillness of the cabin, once silence took over, the atmosphere seemed inevitably intimate.

    Naturally, the Ice Lineage Diva felt the <em>pressure</em> of being alone with him. She bit her lip, suppressing the nerves rising within her, and took two steps closer to Yun Xiao, whispering, "Senior Yun..."

    "Speak your mind, ask what you wish," Yun Xiao replied, his eyes closed, hands resting on his abdomen, the corners of his mouth curling into a faint smile.

    "Mhm." The Ice Lineage Diva nodded slightly, her long eyshes fluttering as she hesitated, "I was wondering, you met Si Ji before me, didn¡¯t you?"

    "Yes, indeed. When I first arrived in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, she was the first one I met. Quite a pleasant encounter," Yun Xiao replied.

    "She is truly wonderful," the Ice Lineage Diva said with an awkward smile. "It¡¯s no wonder then that you trust her sopletely with Yao Yao."

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao slowly opened his eyes, looking at the sublime yet cautious Ice Lineage Diva beside him. With an ambiguous smile, he asked, "Yu Ji, are you dissatisfied that I entrusted Yao Yao solely to Si Ji?"

    "Not at all," Yu Ji blurted out in a panic, "Your ns are surely profound, with Yao Yao''s best interests at heart. I merely hoped to offer some modest efforts in her upbringing."

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao fully turned to face her, gazing into her ice-blue eyes with a prolonged voice, "But Si Ji has already made sacrifices to gain this opportunity. It doesn''t seem quite right to involve you now."

    At these words, the Ice Lineage Diva''s expression shifted, her emotions intensifying. She suddenly spoke earnestly, "Senior Yun, I can make sacrifices too... Anything Si Ji can do, I can do, and even better."

    Her true motivey bare in that statement.

    "Oh? Are you certain?" Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze intensified as he studied her eyes.

    Such a forceful stare was unfamiliar and taboo to the Ice Lineage Diva. Yun Xiao said nothing more, yet she felt a tingling sensation, her ears faintly burning red.

    "Please, Senior Yun, what did she do?" The Ice Lineage Diva swallowed a cool gulp, her eyes trembling slightly as she looked at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao, with a face that might turn the heavens upside down, possessed an innate allure that even a Diva like her found her heart racing.

    Yun Xiao did not answer her question, but simply smiled and said, "Give me your hand."

    "Hand..." The Ice Lineage Diva¡¯s mind went nk, her breathsing hard. With trembling fingers, she extended her pale, delicate hand from her sleeve, lifting it timidly before Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao, aware that each of his actions must assert dominance lest she perceive his own weakness, acted swiftly. As her hand was raised, he reached out and grasped her hand firmly.

    A gasp escaped her as she instinctively tried to pull back.

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    The Ice Lineage Diva''s heart skipped a beat, breath halted, her face grew cold as frost, and her arms filled with the blue of coursing blood¡­ However, the hand that was about to pull back paused.

    She was like a tense blue rabbit. Despite possessing the power to shatter heaven and earth, she was firmly caught in Yun Xiao''s grip.

    "Senior Yun, what are you..." She knew he was not a mere ve, but a man of will!

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, allowing a man to hold her hand was a taboo, viting the decrees of the ancestors. This was especially true for a Diva who was expected to exemplify conduct.

    If others saw this, her reputation would be ruined!

    Such contact was new to her, and her delicate body reacted as if shocked, wanting to pull away but not daring to.

    Tears welled in her eyes.

    "W-what is this?" Her mind a blur, she spoke breathlessly, staring at his hands as if they were venomous.

    Yun Xiao held her hand gently, his other hand lightly grasping her fingers. "Didn¡¯t you want to know what Si Ji had sacrificed?"

    "Yes, she¡ª" The Ice Lineage Diva stammered, words faltering as if plunged into an icy abyss.

    "Indeed, I quite admire her." Yun Xiao spoke offhandedly, then looked directly into the Diva¡¯s eyes, his voice soft, "I won''t insist, but if you''re willing to offer, then..."

    As he spoke, one hand began to slide from her palm upwards, moving toward the neckline of her garment, while he soothingly added, "Don¡¯t worry, the path of dual cultivation is a natural order of heaven and earth. It¡¯s your first time, I will be gentle."

    "No, no!"

    At this, the Ice Lineage Diva broke down. She swiftly withdrew her hand, tumbling to the ground, then scrambled up and rolled into a corner.

    Her hair disheveled, her once radiant face pale, eyes red-rimmed, the Ice Lineage Diva trembled and her voice broke with sobs, "I was wrong. I do not wish this, please, no, no."

    Yun Xiao paused for a moment, then withdrew his hand and continued to sit cross-legged on the floor. His voice was warm and gentle, "Do not be anxious. I am a carefree seeker of the Dao, not a mere phnderer. True dual cultivation requires mutual consent and benefit. If you are unwilling, I will not force you. What difference would there be between me and the beasts otherwise?"

    Hearing these words, the Ice Lineage Diva felt like a drowning person who had reached the shore. She took several deep breaths to calm herself, then looked at Yun Xiao with gratitude. "Thank you for your understanding."

    "Life is difficult, and so is the Dao. Understanding each other is crucial," Yun Xiao said, his face radiant with a noble glow.

    "Mhmm." Finally regaining herposure, the Ice Lineage Diva''s body stopped shaking.

    Seeing her like this, Yun Xiao said, "The sacredws of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm are your lifeblood, aren''t they?"

    Biting her lip, the Ice Lineage Diva nodded. "Yes. As a Diva, if I break thesews and betray our ancestral teachings, how can I govern and set an example..."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    As she spoke, she suddenly gasped, realizing something and then stared at Yun Xiao, "Si Ji, she...!"

    Yun Xiao¡¯s smile faded. "Everyone has their own ambitions and choices. She chose the path of a Boundless Immortal to better protect her home. You need not condemn her."

    "The path of a Boundless Immortal..." The words nearly choked the Ice Lineage Diva. It was her dream too.

    "To achieve boundlessness, she was willing to unite with me. What about you?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I, I..." The Ice Lineage Diva looked down, her fists clenched, her eyes wrestling with conflict. After a moment, she looked up, her voice trembling, "I''m sorry to disappoint you, I cannot do it."

    "Don''t worry. I''m not disappointed. I tell you all this only hoping that while you keep to your Dao, you do not hinder others in their pursuit. Otherwise, I would be displeased," Yun Xiao said, looking deeply into her eyes.

    "Yes, yes..." the Ice Lineage Diva murmured, her voice choked with emotion. She understood now. Everything. Why Yun Xiao had stayed at the Snow Diva Ruins, why he had entrusted Yao Yao to Si Ji''s care.

    It was because of this...

    Her first impulse was to expose it all, to ruin Si Ji''s reputation utterly. But quickly, she realized what was done was done. What good woulde to tarnish Si Ji, to make a mockery of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, to subject all its people to disgrace?

    And more so, if the Boundless Immortal before her were truly angered, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm would be doomed!

    To cultivate with a Boundless Immortal... She too could make such a choice, if she wished.

    That was a way to be a Boundless Immortal!

    "Si Ji has already transgressed, entranced by her pursuit of boundlessness, she''s tread the path of forsaking her mentors and ancestors. I must uphold the will of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!" The Ice Lineage Diva''s gaze hardened.

    "Senior Yun." Sheposed herself, suppressing her mixed emotions, and spoke to Yun Xiao, "Given all this, I wish you well."

    "Thank you," Yun Xiao responded.

    "But if you deceive her, if you conceal truths that ultimately harm the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, I swear I won''t rest, even as a ghost," she said suddenly, her tone serious and chilling.

    Yun Xiao merely smiled wryly. "You worry too much. With my current state, aligning with the Harmony Divine Pce is merely mutually beneficial. I''m hardly in a position to harm you."

    "Your state?" The Ice Lineage Diva blinked in surprise.

    Yun Xiao spread his hands, smiling, "Can''t you see? The power of tribtion within me is weak."

    "I see, but..." The Ice Lineage Diva wanted to say, <em>Aren¡¯t you just hiding it?</em><blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 823: Harmony Divine Sword Realm!

    Yun Xiao did not wait for her to speak, but smiled and said, "In truth, this body of mine is merely a body double, inheriting only a fragment of the Boundless Light. But if we were to speak ofbat prowess, I''m afraid I''m still not quite at your level. My journey to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is also to cultivate this avatar."

    "Is that so..." the Ice Lineage Diva realized, enlightened.

    Everything made sense now.

    "Sharing this secret with me signifies the greatest trust," the Ice Lineage Diva said.

    "Indeed, I am a carefree soul, not one to hide or hoard. Honesty benefits us both," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Such profound wisdom," the Ice Lineage Diva said with admiration.

    The more <em>open </em>and <em>transparent</em> Yun Xiao was, the more profound he seemed in her eyes.

    With even his body double possessing such miraculous abilities, one could only wonder how powerful his true self was.

    "Yu Ji, since we are fated to meet, why not sit and chat awhile?" Yun Xiao suggested with a smile."Senior..." she began.

    "Don''t worry. Think of it as a meeting between fellow travelers on the same path, delighting in discourse, not dwelling on the affairs of immortality," Yun Xiao assured her.

    Upon hearing this, the Ice Lineage Diva shyly smiled, "Your reverence is profound and vast, it is I who am too rigid."

    With that, she returned to Yun Xiao''s side, bent her knees slightly, and sat down, her smile once again gracing her face.

    "Do we have any fine wine?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "Do you also enjoy wine?" the Ice Lineage Diva asked.

    "It is one of the great pleasures of life," Yun Xiao paused, "but nothing too strong. This body of mine is too fragile to withstand it."

    "Understood." The Ice Lineage Diva nodded with a smile, reaching into her Bag of Holding to produce a white jade gourd, saying, "This is brewed from the celestial fruits of the Harmony Divine Pce, mild yet refreshing, and does not overwhelm. Please, have a taste."

    As she poured him a cup, Yun Xiao took it and drank in one gulp, his eyes lighting up, "Pure and natural, like a clear spring cleansing the soul. Truly a treasure of the immortal path, as pure and fervent as the hearts of the women from your realm¡ªhonorable and worthy of the highest respect."

    His words were like the warm sunshine in winter to the inhabitants of the isted Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    In the eyes of the Ice Lineage Diva, Yun Xiao, whose strength was unknowable, seemed even more otherworldly. His drinking was all too dashing!

    To say her heart remained unmoved would be false, yet her emotional defenses were too formidable to breach.

    Yun Xiao, his smile mingling with the warmth of the wine, began to chat with her, "Given the state of my body double right now, even if you''re not inclined towards joint cultivation, I still wish to coborate with you."

    "Coborate?" The Ice Lineage Diva blinked in surprise, her lips parting slightly, "Is there still a way I might be of service?"

    "Indeed, there is," Yun Xiao assured her.

    The Ice Lineage Diva shook her head, her expression curious, "Since Si Ji has already given her heart to you, whatever I can do, she can do as well."

    "That might not necessarily be the case," Yun Xiao said, sipping another cup of wine, his gaze slightly tipsy as he looked at her, "For instance, I would like to visit the Harmony Divine Sword Realm of your Ice Lineage." ?

    "The Harmony Divine Sword Realm?" The Ice Lineage Diva frowned slightly, troubled, "That is the ancient core of swordsmanship of the Harmony Divine Pce, inessible to anyone but Valkyrie Queen Sword Immortals. As an outsider, it is even more forbidden."

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao chuckled. "I recall that your Harmony Divine Pce was founded by two ancestors¡ªthe Harmony Founder and Divine Founder. I heard the Divine Founder was a Boundless Immortal highly skilled in both the Sword and Martial Dao.

    "My true self is a Sword Cultivator as well, currently crafting a new sword art but hitting a bottleneck. If I could witness the mysteries behind your Divine Founder''s sword techniques, perhaps a breakthrough might be within reach..."

    The Ice Lineage Diva looked apologetic, "I understand your intentions, but the rules of the Harmony Divine Sword Realm were personally set by the Divine Founder herself. I''d love to ease your worries, but I dare not contravene her teachings. I am truly sorry."

    "But what if my offer could make you a Boundless Immortal as well?" Yun Xiao suddenly proposed.

    "What?" The Ice Lineage Diva gasped, her nervousness returning.

    "Rest assured, it wouldn''t require joint cultivation. I have other means to help you achieve boundlessness," Yun Xiao added.

    "Senior..." The Ice Lineage Diva was again stirred deeply, pressing down on her racing heart, her voice trembling, "Please enlighten me."

    Yun Xiao''s gaze drifted downward from her face, saying, "The celestial techniques left by your Harmony and Divine Founders are both the foundation of your rise and the barrier to bing a Boundless Immortal. Generations of your people must have realized this. As for your Ice Lineage, up to now, your meridians have beenpletely blocked by Ice Specter Poison. Your entirework of meridians has turned into toxic ice channels, hasn''t it?"

    Her situation differed from Si Ji''s, who suffered from an umtion of spiritual yin energy congesting her organs, while her own meridians were utterly frozen!

    Hearing Yun Xiao''s words, the Ice Lineage Diva bit her lip and nodded. "You''re right, the methods of the two founders indeed bind us away from bing Boundless Immortals."

    As she spoke, a surge of icy light flowed within her, her delicate body''s meridians glowing, resembling a vast filled with a deadly chill, perpetually frozen.

    "You suffer more than Si Ji, who only experiences asional outbreaks. Your entire body, with its Ice Lineage, constantly torments your flesh and blood. Over so many years, how could you, a woman, endure such heart-wrenching pain?" Yun Xiao''s gaze softened, almost reaching out to gently pat her head...

    That single moment of concern almost brought the Ice Lineage Diva, so ustomed to solitude, to tears.

    Indeed, the pain she endured¡ªonly she knew it fully! Without reaching the Eighth Baptism Realm, one could notprehend this agony. Strength came at a cost!

    "I really have to wonder if your Harmony and Divine Founders meant to protect you or to harm you. They themselves became Boundless Immortals, surely..." Yun Xiao said.

    However, the Ice Lineage Diva briefly shook her head. She whispered softly, "Senior Yun, let¡¯s not speak of them. I just want to ask you one thing. Is what you said about helping me be a Boundless Immortal true?"

    "Of course, it''s true," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "How can it be done?" she asked, looking intently into his eyes.

    Yun Xiao smiled faintly, meeting her gaze. "It''s quite simple, really. Remove the Ice Specter Poison, and with your talents, one day you will naturally be a Boundless Immortal!"

    "But how can we remove it?" the Ice Lineage Diva¡¯s eyes trembled as she asked.

    "Give me your hand," Yun Xiao said, setting down his wine cup.

    This time, the Ice Lineage Diva hesitated only briefly before extending her hand and cing it in Yun Xiao''s. She bit her lip, no longer tense.

    "Your fingers are quite beautiful, fitting for a swordswoman." Yun Xiao gently squeezed her hand.

    Without making her wait any longer, a Life Sigil appeared in his hand, the Prison Warden Sigil, which he ced onto her palm.

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>Suddenly, her hand reacted as if ice had met fierce me, emitting a hissing smoke.

    The escaping bluish smoke, even lightly touching Yun Xiao''s hand, frosted over his skin, illustrating its destructive power!

    The smoking was the purging of the Ice Specter Poison!

    This scene proved that the Prison Warden Sigil could indeed cleanse the Ice Specter Poison.

    Clearly, the Ice Lineage Diva had spent her lifetime searching for countless ways to rid herself of this bone-clinging poison, but all had undoubtedly failed.

    So, when she witnessed the icy blue smoke rising from her palm, she covered her red lips with her other hand, yet tears streamed down her cheeks as she sobbed audibly.

    "Hah¡­" Yun Xiao slowly retracted the Prison Warden Sigil, his voiceden with significance, "The Ice Specter Poison in your body has been entrenched for too long and too deeply. It might take several days to fully purge."

    "Senior Yun!" The Ice Lineage Diva raised her cleansed palm¡ªit was now whiter, purer, the dark blue veins previously visible had vanished!

    The ice in her eyes melted, and suddenly, she grasped Yun Xiao¡¯s arm eagerly, eximing, "I¡ªI will take you to the Harmony Divine Sword Realm now!"

    Yun Xiao chuckled, "That¡¯s more like it. You know your Divine Founder set you up, so why obey blindly? Today, you get even with her."

    Hearing his yful remark, the Ice Lineage Diva''s tears turned intoughter. It was as if she were back to being a little girl, and Yun Xiao was an elder she could coquettishly depend on.

    "Right, I¡¯ll get even with her!" she dered yfully.

    Seeing this, Blue Star couldn''t help but marvel. Turning an ice-cold matriarch of a realm into a doted-on little girl was indeed a rare talent!

    "Listen, you¡¯vee out ahead in this cooperation. So, don¡¯t be stingy if I ask for a little help over the next few days," Yun Xiao stood, his face stern.

    "Don¡¯t worry, as long as it''s not dual cultivation..." the Ice Lineage Diva muttered, feeling too embarrassed to continue. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Though her barriers were formidable, they could not hide her deep respect for Yun Xiao. It was a genuine reverence.

    After all, who else could solve the dilemma of her Ice Specter Poison?

    "Let''s go."

    With the departure for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects set for tomorrow, time was short. It was crucial for Yun Xiao to sneak into the Harmony Divine Sword Realm and learn what he could before then!

    "Of course, I''ll lead the way," the Ice Lineage Diva said, her demeanor unexpectedly lively and cheerful, a stark departure from her usual frosty goddess persona.

    "Just a moment," Yun Xiao cautioned as they prepared to leave. "About everything we''ve discussed today, do not mention a word to Si Ji. Pretend as if you know nothing."

    "Why is that?" the Ice Lineage Diva asked.

    "Well," Yun Xiao hesitated, "I''m afraid she might get jealous. Frankly, I''m not well-versed in romantic affairs given my focus on cultivation. It would really trouble me if she were upset."

    Hearing this, the Ice Lineage Diva didn''t know whether to feel envious or contemptuous.

    She nodded, assuring him, "Don''t worry, I will keep everything confidential."

    "Right, cough cough." Yun Xiao took a deep breath, satisfied that he had sessfully bluffed his way through.

    Logically, the Ice Lineage Diva was not foolish, but Yun Xiao had skillfully exploited her vulnerability with a well-acted disy thatpletely deceived her.

    "Next, securing resources from the Ice Lineage Diva will be even easier than from the Snow Lineage Diva."

    After all, the Snow Lineage Diva didn¡¯t consider him a Boundless Immortal!

    Yun Xiao¡¯s im of being merely a body double was also a tactic toy the groundwork for acquiring resources.

    With the Prison Warden Sigil and the awe inspired by his true self, Yu Ji dared not oppose him!

    "Harmony Divine Sword Realm, here Ie." The young man in white and the beautiful blue-gowned Diva, side by side, rode the wind away.

    ... ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Within the territory of the Sea Lineage, the Sea Diva Ruins¡­

    "Mom, drink, drink!"

    "Me too! Me too!!"

    The Sea Lineage Diva, her long curly hair cascading dramatically, was surrounded by a bevy of toddling girls, her expression one of utter despair.

    "No, something''s not right¡­"

    After mulling over it, she still felt something was amiss. She suddenly stood up, causing several girls to scatter away as they yed outside.

    "That ve must be up to something!"

    Unable to contain her suspicion any longer, the Sea Lineage Diva hastily adjusted her clothes, wrapping herself carelessly, then burst forth like a mighty river from the Sea Diva Ruins.

    "Mom!" several toddlers with milk stains on their mouths cried, tumbling into a heap.

 Chapter 824: Divine Founder Sword Scale!

    Within the territory of the Ice Lineage, thend was sealed in ice as far as the eye could see.

    Yun Xiao made use of the fact that he was a body double to exin how frail he was and why he could hardly keep pace with the Ice Lineage Diva.

    Of course, his frailty was only rtive to the Ice Lineage Diva.

    In truth, after entering the First Dao Tribtion and condensing a Corona, bolstered by the Primordial Sphere, Yun Xiao had far surpassed his former self.

    "It really is inconvenient for my true self to do much in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao muttered, reminding himself that he could finally leave this ce tomorrow. "That said, I''m sure I''ll find opportunities to hone my skills at the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects..."

    Thinking to this point, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but be reminded of Divine Dawn.

    "I wonder how Lil Xi is faring in the Ancestral Land? Knowing her, she might show up in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects too."

    Suddenly, the Ice Lineage Diva''s voice snapped Yun Xiao out of his reverie.

    "This way."To avoid drawing attention, the Ice Lineage Diva had led him through secluded paths.

    The two were headed towards the Harmony Divine Sword Realm located within the Ice Diva Ruins.

    The Ice Diva Ruins were virtually a city of ice sculptures. The frost pces stood shoulder to shoulder like swords thrusting into the heavens.

    Like the Snow Lineage Diva, the Ice Diva Ruins were solely the domain of the Ice Lineage Diva, which was why it was so quiet and devoid of people.

    The Ice Lineage Diva was ustomed to walking barefoot. She stepped lightly, her bare feet on the icy ground, casting reflections of her pale legs on the icy surface.

    "The Harmony Divine Sword Realm is located at the back of the Ice Diva Ruins," the Ice Lineage Diva exined without prompting, still showing great respect towards Yun Xiao.

    Compared to when the two first met, her gaze had warmed considerably. She was even making the effort to muster a smile from her normally frosty demeanor.

    "Lead the way." Yun Xiao smiled, maintaining his act as an ancient sage untouched by worldly dust, perfectly poised.

    "After you."

    Once inside the Ice Diva Ruins, with no one else around, the Ice Lineage Diva rxed significantly.

    ¡°This Ice Diva Ruins, so vast¡ªdon¡¯t you ever feel lonely here, cultivating here by yourself?¡± Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    The Ice Lineage Diva looked down, her voice a soft whisper, ¡°Senior Yun, I¡¯ve grown ustomed to it.¡±

    ¡°What about after bing a Boundless Immortal? How about drinking from the Divine Spring to have a child?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    The Ice Lineage Diva chuckled. ¡°Maybe, but I don¡¯t feel quite ready. Every time I visit Wan Ji, that ce is crawling with noisy toddlers. Just thinking about it gives me a headache. So, perhaps in the far future.¡±

    ¡°Indeed, everyone has their own ambitions, and their own way of living,¡± Yun Xiao mused.

    As the two conversed, they passed through rows of empty ice-sculpted pces, and soon a frigid ice valley appeared before them, and at the end of the valley stood a door made of blue ice!

    Before this ice door, numerous ice sword formations were arrayed, hundreds of them, each possessing a deadly sword intent.

    With such formidable ice sword formations, any outsider foolish enough to force their way through would likely meet their end impaled by 1,000 swords!

    But with the Ice Lineage Diva personally guiding him, Yun Xiao found the way open, and together they entered the grand gateway of the Harmony Divine Sword Realm.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The gates of the Harmony Divine Sword Realm mmed shut behind them.

    Ahead of Yun Xiao, the scene suddenly opened up.

    Before himy a world bathed in icy blue, shimmering and pulsing with light. Rows upon rows of sword-shaped ice columns rose from the ground, forming a chilling forest of ice swords.

    Encased within these sword columns were scales, undoubtedly serpent scales. Likely, they had fallen from the past Divas and Valkyrie Queens who''d cultivated here.

    ¡°Our ancestors embedded their celestial sword techniques within their own unique scales, guiding future generations in their cultivation,¡± the Ice Lineage Diva exined solemnly, gazing at the icy columns.

    ¡°To reach the Seventh Baptism Realm, one must undergo a bloodline transformation to produce a serpent¡¯s tail?¡± Yun Xiao inquired.

    ¡°Senior Yun, it¡¯s not called a serpent¡¯s tail; it''s known as the Divine Spring Tail, a mark of our heritage as children of the Divine Spring, and also its blessing upon us. With this tail, ourbat abilities surpass ordinary cultivators in the Seventh Baptism Realm,¡± the Ice Lineage Diva rified.

    ¡°Fascinating,¡± Yun Xiao nodded, understanding. He walked past the icy columns, heading deeper into the Harmony Divine Sword Realm.

    ¡°Do you truly wish to observe the sword technique of the Divine Founder?¡± the Ice Lineage Diva asked.

    ¡°Of course, I suppose it''s in the deepest part?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    He was curious about the scales on the other icy columns, though that would be inconsistent with his act as an all-knowing Boundless Immortal.

    ¡°Yes!¡± The Ice Lineage Diva nodded, then led Yun Xiao all the way to the deepest part of this icy blue world.

    There, a massive sword-shaped ice column emerged, surrounded by tens of thousands of mist-like strands of sword energy, each one alive and spectacr in disy.

    Within thergest sword-shaped ice column was a palm-sized, turquoise scale.

    This, undoubtedly, was the ancestral sword heritage scale left by the Divine Founder!

    Approaching the scale, the Ice Lineage Diva felt a hint of nervousness. "Senior Yun, there is something I must remind you of."

    "Go on," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "The Divine Founder enhanced this ice column with her own intent. Only a body untainted and pure can touch the Divine Founder Sword Scale. I cannot assist you in this; you must resolve it yourself," the Ice Lineage Diva exined.

    "Oh? That''s no problem, for I have remained untainted," Yun Xiao dered.

    "Uh..." The Ice Lineage Diva was stunned. He had clearly mentioned dual-cultivation! How could he possibly be pure!

    However, she dropped the matter. She was more curious about how Yun Xiao nned to get past the boundless intent left behind by the Divine Founder.

    As she watched, Yun Xiao stepped forward, reaching out towards the Divine Founder Sword Scale within the ice column.

    During this, the mist-like stands of sword energy swirling around the column seemed startled, instantly awakening like a fierce beast, surging towards Yun Xiao.

    <em>SIZZLE! </em>As the strands of sword energy neared him, a nine-headed violet dragon surged from his body. With a mighty roar, the swords scattered away!

    "Again, this Life Sigil..."

    Seeing the Prison Warden Sigil, the Ice Lineage Diva''s heart raced.

    When she witnessed this sacred and exalted sigil once again work its wonders, purifying Yun Xiaopletely and rendering him wless, her faith in his identity as a Boundless Immortal solidified.

    In fact, it was unshakable now!

    In an instant, Yun Xiao''s palm had passed through the ice column, his fingertips gently lifting to touch the Divine Founder Sword Scale.

    "Impossible..." the Ice Lineage Diva cried out in panic, but it was already toote.

    "What''s wrong?" Yun Xiao turned to ask.

    "Nothing, nothing at all." The Ice Lineage Diva stared at his fingers touching the Divine Founder Sword Scale, at a loss for words.

    The <em>reverse scale </em>of the Divine Spring Tail was located close to a certain private<em></em>part. So, a man touching it was a grave taboo.

    The issue was that the Ice Lineage Diva hadn''t mentioned this beforehand; she didn''t know whom to me.

    The deed was done. With Yun Xiao being of such importance, she chose to overlook it.

    Normally, one would need to project their spirit into the Divine Founder Sword Scale to witness the ultimate sword techniques of the Divine Founder... Touching it with a finger wasn¡¯t much different!

    So, the Ice Lineage Diva reluctantly turned a blind eye.

    "Senior Yun, I must also mention that the Divine Founder''s sword has lineage restrictions. Traditionally, aside from the descendants of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, outsiders, even if they learn the sword techniques, cannot perform them..."

    She was mid-sentence when Yun Xiao closed his eyes and extended another finger toward her.

    "Senior Yun, you...!" The Ice Lineage Diva''s heart raced as she stared at the looming finger so close to her.

    How could he be so impudent!

    As she silently fumed, a whirlwind suddenly sprang to life around Yun Xiao''s fingertip!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The whirlwind formed into a sphere!

    It was a frigid sphere,posed of dense sword energy, inside which a tiny infant seemed to be forming...

    "Yin Sword Embryo!" The Ice Lineage Diva stepped back, her eyes widening in disbelief.

    As the current sessor to the Divine Founder''s sword techniques, she recognized what it was...

    This was the Yin Sword Embryo she had painstakingly cultivated for 300 years!

    The foundation of the Divine Founder''s boundless sword mastery, all sword techniques stemmed from this Yin Sword Embryo.

    She was certain there was no second ce in the entire Samsara Gxy where the Yin Sword Embryo was known!

    And Yun Xiao, having merely touched the Divine Founder Sword Scale¡­ How did he achieve this?

    The Ice Lineage Diva stood dumbfounded, staring at the Yin Sword Embryo on Yun Xiao¡¯s finger, forgetting even to breathe...

    "Whew!" Yun Xiao let out a long breath, a smile twinkling in his eyes. He retracted his finger from the Divine Founder Sword Scale and recalled the Yin Sword Embryo.

    This was a massive win! This was the most formidable sword technique he had ever encountered. If used well, he could potentially sweep through the Samsara Gxy with it alone.

    "What¡¯s wrong?" Seeing the Ice Lineage Diva still in a daze, Yun Xiao tapped her forehead with his finger.

    "Ouch." The Ice Lineage Diva winced in pain, clutching her forehead as she stepped back. She breathed heavily, her eyes trembling as she gazed at Yun Xiao, uttering a soft groan, unable to speak for a long time.

    "Not so difficult, is it?" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    Hearing this, the Ice Lineage Diva truly questioned her life''s efforts. Her ultimate sword, so easily replicated.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    His casual remark underscored the vast gap in their talents.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 825: Mystic Sea Yin Palace Physique

    "Senior Yun, it''s just..." the Ice Lineage Diva stammered, her eyes filled with awe. The reverence she had in her heart for this seemingly young elder flowed like an endless river.

    What did it mean to be the true overlord of the Samsara Gxy? This was it! She stood at the pinnacle of the world, but in her Ice Spirit Eye, Yun Xiao was the true summit, unmatched and supreme.

    "Hohoho, not bad, not bad¡­ I''ve picked up quite a few things today. You have my thanks," Yun Xiao said, looking down at her with a gentle smile.

    "Not at all, Senior Yun. I only led you here. You even went out of your way to save me. I should be the one thanking you instead," the Ice Lineage Diva replied. Her heart fluttered back to the days when she was just a young girl.

    "If that¡¯s the case, as per our agreement, I shall now begin to rid you of some of your Ice Specter Poison. Where shall we start?" Yun Xiao inquired.

    "From the hand, the arm," the Ice Lineage Diva said, her heart pounding.

    Such purification of the Ice Specter Poison inevitably meant contact. For now, it was only the hand. But if she wanted to make a full recovery, would it not also include the legs, back, body¡­ and so forth in the future? She dared not think further, her nerves tightening the more she pondered.

    "Then the hand it shall be." Yun Xiao, unbothered, confidently took her arm, cing the Prison Warden Sigil against her skin, gradually vaporizing the poison within the meridians of her hands.

    Such contact seemed ordinary. Yet, it was taboo because she was a Diva of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.Soon, the frozen meridians in her arms werepletely unsealed.

    Only the Ice Lineage Diva herself knew the relief she felt at that moment¡ªher arms were so light!

    For a century, her whole body had been gued by piercing pain, the ice invading her blood, never dissipating. Now, at least her hands were at ease¡ªa sensation as light as floating in the clouds.

    "Senior, thank you¡­ thank you so much," she said, her eyes brimming with tears as she couldn''t help but kneel in gratitude before Yun Xiao.

    "No need, this is your due," Yun Xiao quickly said, helping her up and looking into her eyes, "There''s still Ice Specter Poison within you. I will cleanse the rest in theing days. I would do it all at once if I could, but the poison is fierce, and this Life Sigil of mine also needs to rest."

    "No hurry, no hurry, I will follow your lead," the Ice Lineage Diva replied, tears of gratitude in her eyes, no longer minding the contact as Yun Xiao held her arms.

    Yun Xiao was about to speak again when suddenly, voices came from outside.

    It seemed that two Valkyrie Queens wereing to train in the Harmony Divine Sword Realm. If a lowly ve and the Ice Lineage Diva were seen together here, it would be hard to exin.

    "What should we do? My body double is not very convenient for moving," Yun Xiao asked.

    Seeing no other choice, the Ice Lineage Diva bit her lip and said, "Senior Yun, I must be impolite."

    With a flourish of her long dress and a roll, she wrapped Yun Xiao within it, then transformed into a streak of ice, dashing out of the Harmony Divine Sword Realm. ?

    "Diva?!" the two Valkyrie Queens at the entrance eximed, stunned as they watched her retreating figure.

    "Why was the Diva in such a hurry?"

    "Her abdomen looks swollen; could she be pregnant?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "What a joyous asion!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Back in the Snow Diva Ruins, night had fallen.

    Inside the small cabin, Yun Xiao, having seen off the Ice Lineage Diva, finally breathed a sigh of relief. He could finally drop the act of ying an old sage!

    The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm also had a dark dome that covered the sky. It had already descended, but the snow outside the window shone bright and radiant.

    After a busy day, Yun Xiao hadid the groundwork for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    The Yin Sword Embryo of the Harmony Divine Sword Realm was a deadly de indeed!

    "Seems like Yao Yao is still working hard on her side. She''ll probably be cultivating till the morning," Yun Xiao thought. He was still getting used to her newfound work ethic.

    Beside that, Moon Fairy was also rapidly improving.

    So, it felt like his true self was the one cking off a bit.

    "I''m still only in the First Baptism Realm. I have to hurry up and break through to the Second Baptism Realm."

    With that, Yun Xiao settled down in the small cabin, nning to consume some Heavenly Dao Sariras and Origin Orbs.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Just then, he felt as though he was yanked from the cabin, plunging into a tide of chill.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes snapped open! Around him stretched an endless ocean, a dark green sea of icy cold that rolled on endlessly, chilling to the bone!

    He was just in the Snow Diva Ruins¡ªhow had he suddenly fallen into this deep abyssal sea?

    Though the tide did not freeze, its cold pierced straight to the marrow. In an instant, frost began to form on Yun Xiao''s hair, eyes, internal organs, and bones, the frigid water attacking him like poison!

    It was cold, very cold, probably the coldest he''d ever been in his life. He felt like death was imminent.

    "Hold on!" Yun Xiao said to himself, clenching his teeth. He knew Blue Star and Red Moon were about to move to support him.

    With his Primordial Void tribtion power, he temporarily resisted the icy tide, his eyes fixed on the tempest ahead.

    "The fact that they didn''t try to kill me outright means they don''t intend to," Yun Xiao thought. He''d already had a hunch about the identity of his unknown assant!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>Amid the raging storm, a figure in a dark green dress gradually approached. Her dark green curls spread out in the vast sea, and her undting form swayed with the waves, disying a mature charm that was both graceful and alluring.

    Undoubtedly, she was the Sea Lineage Diva of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    The power of the icy vast sea she wielded¡ªYun Xiao had already witnessed its might.

    "Lowly, little ve¡­" Those cold eyes, through the waves, shone down on Yun Xiao from above, disying an air of nobility and dominance, sacred and unassable!

    Clearly, the Sea Lineage Divacked the Ice Spirit Eye and couldn''t discern Yun Xiao''s unique qualities.

    In her view, Yun Xiao was merely a ve in the First Baptism Realm; nothing unexpected should be on him.

    So, her treatment of Yun Xiao could never mirror that of the Ice Lineage Diva, Yu Ji.

    Had she not suspected a connection between Yun Xiao and the Snow Lineage Diva, she would have killed him outright!

    At this moment, her pressure, like an oceanic abyss, bore down upon Yun Xiao, unintentionally stifling his breath.

    This was the true chasm between him and such a supreme Diva!

    "Hmph!" The Sea Lineage Diva, Wan Ji, watched the young man in white with a detached air. Her demeanor, much more direct than the other Divas, required no subtlety.

    With a cold snort, the oceanic force around Yun Xiao swirled violently.

    <em>RIP! </em>His white garments were suddenly obliterated in the waves, leaving not a shred behind.

    Wan Ji¡¯s cold eyes instantly locked onto the key object¡ªtoo conspicuous!

    Her cold gaze suddenly trembled, her pupils constricting.

    Then, she inhaled sharply, ring at Yun Xiao, her voice icy, "Clever little ve, daring to bring the root of sin into this sacred ce. Even if Si Ji and Yu Jin had 1,000 reasons, you would still be guilty of 1,000 deaths, and they cannot be absolved!"

    She had her undeniable proof, simple as that! And, being the mother of over 100 daughters, she was not so easily frightened by this root of sin. She had seen enough!

    "Si Ji,e out and face me!"

    To the Sea Lineage Diva, Yun Xiao was inconsequential; surely, this was Si Ji''s transgression.

    How could a mere ve bear such a responsibility?

    However, just as she called out, the youth trapped in the icy sea suddenly said, "Diva, forgive my bluntness, but your daughter must be close to death, right?"

    Wan Ji''s face, already stern with anger, froze for a moment before her gaze turned even colder, her voice venomous, "So Si Ji has told you everything? She truly deserves death."

    Yun Xiao met her gaze fearlessly, his voice clear, "It has nothing to do with her. I figured it out myself. You possess the Mystic Sea Yin Pce Physique, allowing you to absorb the essence of the Divine Spring more readily than others, resulting in your extreme fertility and so many daughters.

    "However, the Mystic Sea Yin Pce has a fatal w: the children born of it suffer from congenital heart failure. Even if they enter the path of immortality, such congenital weak hearts canst at most 300 years.

    "Now, your eldest daughter, Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue, struggles on her deathbed with congenital heart failure. As a mother, you can only weep helplessly, awaiting the inevitable.

    "And furthermore, in the years toe, as many as you bear, that many you will lose."

    The visage of the Sea Lineage Diva grew increasingly solemn. She knew, deep down, that the things he spoke of were unknown even to Si Ji and Yu Ji!

    The secret of the Mystic Sea Yin Pce Physique was hers alone, discovered in ancient texts¡ªa singr case in heaven and earth!

    This was the reason for her prolific lineage, her exceptional gift.

    Everyone envied her! But who knew the drawback would present itself so soon and continue indefinitely? To possess the potential of a Valkyrie Queen yet live only 300 years¡ªhow tragic was that?

    And as a mother, to watch each precious daughter set upon this path of sorrow¡­ That was her greatest pain.

    She had thought the ancient texts mere fiction. Perhaps she didn''t actually possess the Mystic Sea Yin Pce Physique. But recent changes in her eldest daughter''s heart confirmed everything...

    "How do you know all this?" Wan Ji asked, each word heavy with gravity.

    "Because, although I''ve fallen to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, Ie from a high birth and was taught from a young age many ways to save others, which is my specialty," Yun Xiao said.

    "A joke, you mean to say you can save my daughter?" The Sea Lineage Diva''s retort was clearly a probe.

    She knew well, would any other Divas value a mere ve if he wasn''t extraordinary? And she seemed to see what made him extraordinary!

    First, his courage was unlike that of an ordinary ve. Second, she had been to many battles and seen many a source of sin in men, but never one of such a frightening size. She knew it must be unique!

    To avoid difort, she had ignored all else and now focused solely on Yun Xiao''s eyes, waiting for his response.

    And indeed, Yun Xiao nodded, saying inly, "Not only can I save your eldest daughter, but all your children as well."

    "Truly?" Wan Ji asked. The waves around Yun Xiao suddenly stilled, and he was drawn right before her.

    Amid the rushing waters, the woman before him wore loose garments, her form dazzlingly white and fragrant.

    The face of the most mature and seductive woman of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was also filled with allure.

    This prompted Yun Xiao to inevitably disy his formidable ferocity, looking up defiantly at his opponent.

    He took a deep breath, gazing at the Sea Lineage Diva, and spoke softly, "Diva, surely you don''t want to see your daughters, one by one, die in your arms, do you?"

 Chapter 826: A Life-Saving Genius Doctor!

    When Yun Xiao spoke, the look in the Sea Lineage Diva''s eyes shifted from a chilling cold to aplex mix of emotions.

    "Fine, I''ll give you a chance. You''d better make it happen, otherwise..." the Sea Lineage Diva said in a dark, eerie voice.

    "Otherwise what?" Yun Xiao asked.

    The Diva''s gaze dropped to the root of sin below, where this <em>monster</em> seemingly bared its teeth at her.

    This should have been the most taboo of affairs among the celestial maidens of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Yet, at that moment, the Sea Lineage Diva merely bit her lip and said, "No matter your connection with Si Ji, this root of sin must not remain!"

    "Understood," Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Hmph." The Sea Lineage Diva red at him onest time before abruptly turning her back and looking over her shoulder. "Dress properly and follow me!"

    Afterwards, she took a deep breath, closed her eyes, trying to forget what she saw. But the more she closed her eyes, the more ring it became!

    "The sin of desire grows with age, truly toxic. No wonder it''s ranked as the number one taboo in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, never to be breached!"Si Ji, have you truly fallen into devilry in your quest to be a Boundless Immortal..."

    The Sea Lineage Diva''s heart was a tumult of emotions. She had hoped to pull back from the brink, but now, the life and death of her daughters weighed heaviest on her heart.

    Even the faintest chance was worth fighting for as a mother. She had exhausted all means, tried everything! Now was the moment of despair!

    "Are you ready?" she asked impatiently.

    "Diva, it is done," came the clear, youthful voice from behind.

    Turning, she saw Yun Xiao dressed in simple white robes, floating amidst rolling waves, his long hair tied back, his face sunny, pure, and serene¡ªutterly different from his previous lustful and fierce demeanor.

    Yun Xiao still looked unusual, but he was now far more pleasant to behold.

    "Let''s go!"

    Though Wan Ji appreciated the young man''s extraordinary beauty, she had no time to admire it. She whipped up a cold sea gale and, with brute force, swept Yun Xiao away, thundering off towards the Sea Diva Ruins.

    "It''s really been a wild couple of days. First, it was the Snow Lineage Diva; then, the Ice Lineage Diva. Now, I''m being whisked away by the Sea Lineage Diva," Yun Xiao remarked, finding the situation both amusing and exasperating.

    He had wanted to practice his cultivation, but time was a luxury he did not have.

    "Still, this might be for the best. If I can have the support of all three Divas of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, there''d be no need for skulking and hiding. Things would be a lot easier," he mused.

    Yet, in the eyes of the three Divas, Yun Xiao held three distinct identities.

    To the Snow Lineage Diva, he was still a mere ve, his status lowest, his partnership with her a matter of mere fortune.

    To the Ice Lineage Diva, he was a revered, Boundless Immortal, a pinnacle being of the Samsara Gxy whom she revered and looked to for salvation.

    And to the Sea Lineage Diva, he was seen through entirely; not a ve, but a forbidden pet raised by Si Ji with a mysterious origin, attaching some importance to him.

    If Yun Xiao could indeed save her daughters, his position would surely rise. But the views of these three Divas were not to be shared; letting themmunicate could easily give him away.

    "Bluey, the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace, can it really solve their heart issues?" Yun Xiao checked again.

    He knew well how fierce the Sea Lineage Diva could be¡ªif things went awry, she''d cleanse him in an instant.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Rest easy, bro! Your root of sin is as stable as Mt. Tai!" Blue Star replied, rolling his eyes.

    "Still¡­" Red Moon, ever impassioned, gazed at the seductive silhouette of the Sea Lineage Diva and rasped, "I think you should negotiate some milk for saving one of her daughters."

    "Milk, milk, milk, that''s all you can think about! Seriously, I''m actually going to find you a cow one of these days¡­" Yun Xiao replied, wiping sweat from his brow.

    "Really? Then when? I''ve been waiting forever!" Red Moon was near tears. It''d been so long that he''d almost forgotten what that delicacy even tasted like! "Hmph! You just want to keep all the good stuff to yourself!"

    Before long, the furious sea storm swept Yun Xiao swiftly to the Sea Diva Ruins.

    With a ssh, Yun Xiaonded smoothly.

    The Sea Diva Ruins, built deep under the sea, stretched out as a continuous expanse of dark green pces, utterly cold and icy.

    Yet, it was much livelier herepared to the Snow Diva and Ice Diva Ruins.

    The moment Wan Ji returned, the Sea Diva Ruins burst into activity.

    "Mother!"

    "Mom!" "Mama!"

    ¡­

    A bevy of pretty and yful little girls rushed forward, clinging to the Sea Lineage Diva. They hugged her neck, wrapped around her waist and thighs¡ªevery sort of embrace was in y.

    "Mom, did you bring any treats?"

    "Mom, y with me!"

    Oblivious to their surroundings, the girls inadvertently tugged at Wan Ji''s flowing robe, pulling it down to reveal her jade back and the curve of her waist and hips, a sight that quickened the pulse.

    "Enough!" The Sea Lineage Diva was thoroughly annoyed, and with a sharp scold, she brushed off the clinging girls.

    Her feelings for these children were mixed with love and exasperation. Everyone envied her for her plentiful offspring, but only she knew the true toll that motherhood took.

    "Mom, who''s this?"

    "Isn''t that a ve? How did he get in?"

    Soon, they caught sight of Yun Xiao. There was a moment of tension; they hid behind their mother and stared wide-eyed at him, who seemed so unlike them.

    Seeing this, the Sea Lineage Diva sealed off the entire Sea Diva Ruins and dered, "Stop bothering me, go y. I''ll talk to youter."

    Her stern voice made the little girls finally listen.

    "Follow me!" The Sea Lineage Diva adjusted her robe and cast a stern nce back at Yun Xiao.

    Together, they proceeded towards the deeper chambers of the Sea Diva Ruins, while the young girls moved aside, still making faces at Yun Xiao with their round, adorable eyes.

    On the path to the deep pce, more daughters of the Sea Lineage Diva noticed Yun Xiao. Many were already Valkyries and Valkyrie Princesses, blossoming into their prime, bearing a striking resemnce to their mother.

    When dozens of them appeared together, the sight was somewhat spectacr, like dozens of siblings of varying ages, each with her own distinct aura.

    "Mother, who is this?" they asked, more maturely, frowning lightly as they regarded Yun Xiao.

    Here, in the deepest heart of the kingdom of daughters, the sight of a man was a rare spectacle indeed.

    The Sea Lineage Diva was too preupied to attend to them; finding Yun Xiao''s pace too sluggish, she whisked him away to a dark pce buried further within.

    "Hai Yue!"

    The Sea Lineage Diva pushed through the doors without knocking.

    Inside, two exquisite beauties of the Sea Lineage paused their conversation. On seeing their mother enter, they voiced their concern, "Mother, our eldest sister''s condition has worsened again."

    As they spoke, they too noticed Yun Xiao, their faces etched with confusion.

    Outside, more daughters of the Sea Lineage Diva had followed. Scores of lovely deep sea fairies with dark green curls peered inside, adding to the scene''s beauty.

    "Mhmm¡­" The Sea Lineage Diva proceeded further into the pce. There, in the depths,y a bronze bed on which a woman, bearing a striking resemnce to the Diva herself, was curled up.

    She was facing away from Yun Xiao, her body twitching slightly, emitting soft cries of pain. Her long hair was drenched, her face pallid, her forehead beaded with sweat¡ªshe was clearly in agony.

    At the sound, she turned around, revealing a face slightly younger than the Sea Lineage Diva, almost as if she were her sister rather than her daughter.

    "Mother..." her voice choked, barely a whisper.

    "Hai Yue." The Sea Lineage Diva sat beside the bed, her eyes reddening as she grasped her daughter''s hand. "Does it hurt more now?"

    Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue managed a weak smile. "It should be near the end now, Mother. Don''t be sad. When I''m gone, you''ll still have so many of my sisters to keep youpany. Please, don''t grieve..."

    "Eldest sister!"

    Hearing this, the girls inside the room and those lingering at the door all teared up, unable to hold back their sobs, fear mingling with their sadness.

    Some of the daughters, already over 200 years old, felt a dread settle upon them, knowing the cause of their eldest sister''s illness and the limited span of their own lives.

    A deeper gloom descended.

    The Sea Lineage Diva held her daughter''s hand, gazing at her weary face, tears streaming down her own cheeks as shemented, "It''s my fault, my sin. I brought you into this world but could not grant you a full life."

    Upon hearing these words, the daughters burst into tears even more.

    "Listen," Yun Xiao interjected abruptly, "Diva, if we don''t act quickly, she might not make it."

    Yun Xiao understood why Wan Ji was still so pessimistic; it stemmed from her distrust of him.

    To her, he was merely a tool, a man employed to break through constraints¡ªhow could he truly be capable, when all he seemed to offer was sweet talk? It was a desperate move to seek his help now.

    Regardless of her mistrust, the Sea Lineage Diva nned to let him try.

    Abruptly, she stood and turned to him. "You,e here!"

    "Right." Yun Xiao stepped forward decisively, approaching the bedside of Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue.

    Her dark green hair spread out around her, and a limp serpentine taily across the bronze bed. Her hands clutched at her chest, where beneath the smooth fabric of her gown hid a heart suffering from congenital failure.

    Despite being Martial Immortals with extraordinary physical resilience, surpassing other Immortals in strength, this very heart failure proved especially lethal to them.

    "Mother?" Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue looked at the unfamiliar ve, her pain mixed with confusion.

    "Let him try," Wan Ji said, sighing deeply.

    "Ah..." Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue whimpered. She''d realized that her mother was truly desperate, even willing to bet on a lowly ve. This only underscored the Sea Lineage Diva''s love for her daughters. And tears began streaming down her face.

    Yet, what she hadn''t anticipated was Yun Xiao''s decisive and efficient action. He conjured a vortex of thunder in his palm, swirling with electric serpents. It was a furnace of thunder, swirling with the power of the primordial void.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>Without waiting for Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue to speak, Yun Xiao stepped forward, his hand holding the thunderous vortex, and pressed it just below her chest.

    "Ah?!"

    The excruciating pain made Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue, along with her sisters, widen their eyes in shock at Yun Xiao''s bold intervention.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 827: Heavenly Deity Alliance!

    One of the young girls was about to cry out, only to be silenced by an older sister who covered the child¡¯s mouth.

    The Sea Lineage Diva¡¯s gaze turned cold at Yun Xiao''s boldness. Still, she held back her anger andmanded, "Continue."

    Hearing this, Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue stifled the strange, unfamiliar sensation that stirred within her, staring at the divine-looking youth before her.

    Just as she wrestled with the cruelty of fate, she suddenly felt the swirl of lightning from Yun Xiao''s hand pierce into her body, surging straight into her heart. Then, a perfect ring of lightning took form around her heart, as if a furnace had been set upon her chest.

    "Hm?" Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue froze, caught off guard.

    In the next instant, the furnace discharged a surge of primordial thunder, jolting her frail heart into a beat. The shock forced blood through her veins, flooding her entire body with life.

    Her once pale, delicate face suddenly flushed with color.

    ¡°Let''s keep going¡­¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s hand remained steady over her heart, controlling the yin furnace of the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace. Each pulse of electricity struck her heart, realigning its erratic rhythm, each jolt bringing it closer to a stable beat.

    Again and again, this process repeated¡ªroughly ten times¡ªuntil the pain in her chestpletely vanished. It was as if she had been reborn, her entire being suddenly filled with vitality."Mother!" Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue gasped, eyes wide in disbelief as she looked at Yun Xiao, then turned to her mother, "It''s working! He really did it!"

    She didn¡¯t need to say a word. The Sea Lineage Diva, who had been watching anxiously, had already seen the change in her daughter¡¯s condition. Her beautiful eyes trembled, brimming with tears, and her breath grew heavy.

    In two swift steps, she was at her daughter¡¯s side, her hand gently inspecting her. Then, unable to contain her excitement, she turned to Yun Xiao. "You... you built a of lightning around her heart, and that was all it took to heal her? Was it really that simple?"

    Yun Xiao nced at her calmly, shaking his head. "It wasn¡¯t simple. Proper stimtion must form an endless cycle, perfectly precise. For that, nothing matches the bnce of the primordial. There''s no moreplete rule than that."

    ¡°What is the primordial?¡± the Sea Lineage Diva asked, biting her lip.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about that.¡± Yun Xiao smiled, then added, ¡°All you need to know is that she¡¯s fine now.¡±

    He then turned to Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue and said, ¡°Make sure to rest for the next year or two, avoid strenuous activity. Once your heart has fully absorbed the rhythm of the Yin Furnace, you¡¯ll no longer need its influence, and you¡¯ll be just like any other person. It won¡¯t hinder your cultivation breakthroughs.¡±

    Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue nodded, still dazed, as if she were living in a dream. She got off the bronze bed, her serpent tail transforming into long legs that touched the ground. Two of her sisters rushed forward to support her, but she waved them off¡ªshe could move freely, entirely on her own.

    ¡°ve! How can you guarantee what you¡¯ve said is true? How do I know she¡¯s not just well for the moment, but truly healed?¡± the Sea Lineage Diva demanded, her voice filled with urgency.

    ¡°What do I gain from lying to you? I¡¯m not charging you for treatment. All I ask is that you don¡¯t trouble me,¡± Yun Xiao replied calmly.

    However, the Sea Lineage Diva, hearing his words, remained unsettled for a long while.

    ¡°She is only the beginning,¡± Yun Xiao added after a moment of quiet. ¡°Every one of your daughters will face this trial, and when the timees, they¡¯ll need me.¡±

    ¡°Mother¡­¡± Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue spoke softly, ¡°I believe he¡¯s telling the truth. I feel truly better now. No matter who he is, he¡¯s our family¡¯s great benefactor.¡±

    ¡°I understand.¡± The Sea Lineage Diva shot a deep nce at Yun Xiao. ¡°We¡¯ll talk outside.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± Yun Xiao followed her out.

    Meanwhile, the rest of her daughters rushed into the room, eager to check on their eldest sister¡¯s condition.

    In that moment, it wasn¡¯t just Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue who had been saved¡ªit felt like every one of their futures had been given hope. They wept tears of joy.

    ¡°Does anyone know who that ve really is?¡±

    ¡°Could he not be a ve at all?¡±

    ¡°Maybe.¡±

    ¡°Sister, I think he¡¯s¡­ really handsome.¡±

    If she had said that about any other ve, her sisters would have scolded her, but when she spoke of Yun Xiao, no one could bring themselves to argue.

    ¡°Let¡¯s hope mom doesn¡¯t treat him too harshly.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue reassured them. ¡°With skills like his, no matter how strict our mother is, she¡¯ll treat him well.¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Outside, Wan Ji watched as her daughters in the chamber rejoiced. Her heart churned with emotions, though the joy they shared was clearly written on her face.

    ¡°There¡¯s no need to see me as an enemy. I¡¯m a good person. If there¡¯s something I can help with, I won¡¯t hesitate,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    "Hmm..." The Sea Lineage Diva gave him a long, deep look before speaking. ¡°Very well. I¡¯ll no longer meddle in what¡¯s between you and Si Ji.¡±n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    ¡°Thank you, Diva.¡±

    ¡°But I have conditions. What happened with your¡­ck of cleansing¡ªno one else can know!¡± Wan Ji said, her tone stern.

    ¡°Rest assured, Diva. I don¡¯t expect anyone will be tearing apart my clothes again,¡± Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    Wan Ji shot him a yful re, unable to hold back. ¡°You¡¯ve got some nerve. This ce is infamous as a purgatory for men, and yet you dared to sneak in with such a grave offense.¡±

    ¡°It was all forced by fate,¡± Yun Xiao sighed, ¡°Just going with the flow.¡±

    There was a trace of mncholy in his voice, a kind of sorrow that, oddly enough, added a certain charm.

    The Sea Lineage Diva watched him, feeling a mix of emotions herself. <em>No wonder Si Ji fell for him¡ªthis boy really is something, a rare breed of man even among those in the Samsara Gxy. And it¡¯s not just his nerve that¡¯srge...</em>

    The thought made her cheeks flush slightly.

    She had never imagined that the usually obedient Si Ji would take such a reckless step, while she, the one renowned for her grace and charm, was still dutifully drinking from the Divine Spring like some ascetic.

    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± Wan Ji asked, looking at him.

    ¡°Yun Xiao.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t let you work for nothing. If you save my other daughters in the future, I¡¯ll make sure to reward you,¡± she said coolly.

    ¡°Thank you, Diva.¡±

    Yun Xiao paused for a moment before adding, ¡°There¡¯s one more thing, though I¡¯m not sure if I should mention it.¡±

    ¡°Go on,¡± she said.

    Yun Xiao continued, ¡°The technique you''ve cultivated from the Divine Founder also affects the heart. However, your condition is different from that of your daughters¡ªfar more severe. It impacts all of your meridians. If it res up, it could cause instant death¡­¡±

    Wan Ji''s body stiffened, her face darkening as she asked, ¡°How do you know this?¡±

    Yun Xiao answered truthfully, ¡°I can see it. Also, I suspect the previous Divas of your Sea Lineage may have died the same way. You¡¯ve lived longer than most.¡±

    Wan Ji lowered her head, falling into silence.

    ¡°To be honest, your Harmony and Divine Founders didn¡¯t do right by their descendants. The things they left behind all have fatal ws, shackling you, almost as if they were intentionally preventing you from taking that next step,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°Silence!¡± Wan Ji suddenly snapped. But as soon as the words left her lips, her expression softened, and she looked even more pained. ¡°You know a lot, but there¡¯s no need to say more. The two founders likely had their reasons. We, as the vanguards of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, have no choice but to be Divas to protect our people.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Yun Xiao nodded.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take you back to the Snow Diva Ruins,¡± Wan Ji said.

    ¡°Wait,¡± Yun Xiao looked at her, his voice low, ¡°I can save you too.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Wan Ji froze.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s hand lit up with the same swirling lightning vortex. ¡°This is called the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace. I just used it to save your daughter. But your condition is far moreplex. If you want to survive, you¡¯ll need to establish Primordial Yin Furnaces throughout your entire body. You¡¯ll have to abandon your current martial path, but who knows? It might even lead you to a breakthrough to be a Boundless Immortal.¡±

    ¡°You¡­¡±

    In Wan Ji¡¯s eyes, this mysterious ve was bing even more enigmatic.

    ¡°How do we do that?¡± she asked, biting her lip.

    ¡°It¡¯s a bitplicated,¡± Yun Xiao admitted, scratching his head. ¡°The essence of it is a method of merging the dao. I would use my Primordial Yang Furnace to help cultivate your Primordial Yin Furnace, but... it requires an exchange.¡± His tone was awkward.

    He and Cao Shuo had perfected the Primal Yin-Yang Thunder Furnace, allowing them to advance rapidly in the Martial Dao. While he had once bluffed to the Ice Lineage Diva, what he said now was entirely true¡ªthis was the only way to save her.

    Hearing this, the Sea Lineage Diva suddenlyughed. Sheughed with a seductive charm, casting Yun Xiao a yful nce. ¡°Boy, are you sure you¡¯re not just trying to seduce me?¡±

    Yun Xiao shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m only offering a sincere desire to heal and help. If you have any doubts or hesitations, Ipletely respect your decision.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll see,¡± Wan Ji said, gazing out over the vast ocean, still smiling. ¡°I¡¯m not dead yet. If ites to that, maybe I¡¯ll let you try. Who knows, I might end up giving you an opportunity.¡±

    Yun Xiao sighed helplessly. He really was only trying to talk about saving her life.

    "Thank you for today," the Sea Lineage Diva said, her smile fading into a sudden seriousness as she spoke to Yun Xiao.

    "I''ll need your guidance in the future, Diva," Yun Xiao responded with a polite bow.

    "Alright! Consider it a favor I owe you," she said.

    Just then, a message arrived, delivered through a flying talisman.

    Upon reading it, her expression darkened.

    "I need to meet with Yu Ji and Si Ji. I¡¯ll have Hai Yue escort you back to the Snow Diva Ruins," she said.

    "Understood." Yun Xiao nodded, but quickly added, "Diva, I''d appreciate it if you didn''t mention our dealings to the other two Divas."

    "Why?" she asked.

    "The Snow Lineage Diva considers me her possession. If she learns I helped you, it may cause some... displeasure," Yun Xiao exined.

    "She is rather possessive." The Sea Lineage Diva chuckled.

    Soon, Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue arrived. After learning Yun Xiao¡¯s name, she said, ¡°Yun Xiao,e with me.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, Valkyrie Queen,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°You can call me Big Sis Hai Yue if you¡¯d like,¡± Valkyrie Queen Hai Yue said with a softugh. ¡°You saved my life, so I wouldn¡¯t dare put on airs around you.¡±

    ¡°Then I won¡¯t be formal. Big Sis Hai Yue,¡± Yun Xiao called out with a smile.

    ¡°Mhm,¡± she responded, her voice gentle and warm, carrying the same seductive grace as her mother.

    As they flew away, the Sea Lineage Diva, Wan Ji, watched them leave. Once they were out of sight, she bit her lip and looked down at the flying talisman in her hand, her brow furrowed in frustration.

    ¡°Damn the Heavenly Deity Alliance. If we don¡¯t make it into the top ten at the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, they¡¯ll strip our Harmony Divine Pce of its status. To think they¡¯d deny the contributions of our founders to the Samsara Gxy. How infuriating!¡± The Sea Lineage Diva cursed aloud, but beneath her weathered, battle-hardened face was a deep well of worry...

 Chapter 828: Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    At the heart of the Harmony Divine Pce, where the ice ins, snowy peaks, and cold sea converged, therey the Divine Spring.

    This Divine Spring was nked by the Snow, Ice, and Sea Diva Ruins, arranged in a circle like stalwart guardians, facing the pinkish-whitends of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, their duty to protect the life-giving waters.

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, this spring symbolized both life and legacy, the very lifeline of the Harmony Divine Pce.

    It was a spring of pure white water, appearing as ake with a fountain at its center, ever bursting forth with fresh waters, trickling into rivulets that flowed from the Harmony Divine Pce into the rivers and seas of the realm.

    This spring was like a celestial dream, noble and sacred, pure and tender, as if embodying the soul of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm itself, with faint strains of music wafting in the air.

    And there, beside this fantastical spring, in a cool pavilion, three beauties of breathtaking grace descended from the heavens, their long dresses fluttering, their beauty ethereal.

    One was as inclusive as the ocean, charming and seductive, her dark green hair waving enticingly. Another resembled the cold blue ice, aloof and lofty, her blue hair shimmering crystal clear. Thest had white hair and soft pink eyes, pure and gentle, her gaze deep, her presence serene and graceful.

    These supreme beauties, each unique in appearance and aura, shared a look ofmon concern.

    They gathered in the pavilion, exchanging nces.The Sea Lineage Diva, Wan Ji, sat on a cold stone bench, while the Ice Lineage Diva stood rigidly to the side, and the Snow Lineage Diva leaned against a stone pir, her face veiled as if by ayer of snow.

    The Snow Lineage Diva, Si Ji, asked the Sea Lineage Diva, ¡°Not making the top ten means losing our ce in the Heavenly Deity Alliance?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Wan Ji replied, her pretty face clouded with anger.

    ¡°Is it the top ten of the Samsara Gxy or the Heavenly Deity Ster River?¡± the Ice Lineage Diva, Yu Ji, asked in a cold voice.

    ¡°Even if it''s the Heavenly Deity Ster River, that''s impossible; remember, we ranked 21stst time.¡± Wan Ji shook her head.

    Sighing deeply, the Snow Lineage Diva Si Ji added, ¡°Rankings need numbers, but they only give us eight spots topete, how can we possibly score well?¡±

    ¡°Wan Ji!¡± the Ice Lineage Diva cried out, turning to the Sea Lineage Diva, ¡°Who made this decision? On what grounds is it valid?¡±

    Grinding her teeth, Wan Ji muttered, ¡°It¡¯s written there, decided by all members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re members too, howe we didn¡¯t know about this?¡± Yu Ji pressed.

    ¡°Clearly, they¡¯ve conspired against us¡­ How could they notify us in advance¡­¡± Wan Ji sighed.

    ¡°Shameless!¡± Yu Ji clenched her fists, her eyes zing with a sword-like fierceness. ¡°The seats of the Heavenly Deity Alliance are distributed based on contributions of the sects. Our founders made immense sacrifices for the Heavenly Deity Ster River. When the Heavenly Deity Alliance was established, it was explicitly stated that the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is a permanent member! How dare these descendants erase the achievements of our founders and alter the ancestral teachings on their own?¡±

    "It was inevitable, given the current political climate of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. We at the Harmony Divine Pce scarcely engage in their affairs, have no ties with other celestial sects, and even hold some conflicts with them. They began to iste us long ago..."

    Such istion mattered little; the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm needed no such alliances.

    Yet, being stripped of their seat at the Heavenly Deity Alliance was unexpected, for these seats were foundational to the stature of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    "If we lose this seat, we no longer count among the meritorious of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Our disciples, once revered and protected, will find themselves in much greater peril when they venture out..." Wan Ji said, her expression grim.

    "Peril indeed, but think bigger. I suspect they''re paving the way to conquer the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! With the Southern Divine Dragon Realm now dominant, it''s clear they intend to rece us with them. Given our feud, they would relish unting their power over us," the Ice Lineage Diva interjected coldly.

    "unting power is one thing, but they aim to swallow the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm whole, to make us their vassals, their concubines, their ves," the Snow Lineage Diva, who had been silent, added grimly.

    "In sum, once deprived of our membership in the Heavenly Deity Alliance, we will face the most ruthless cruelty." Wan Ji gazed toward the Divine Spring. "Not only will the Divine Spring be tainted, but all ournds, all our people will lose their dignity and purity. Everything we are will be reduced to disgrace..."

    They understood the ruthless rules of survival in the Heavenly Deity Ster River all too well.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Once they were dethroned, those men who relished speaking daily of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm would certainly long to breach its taboos, taking pleasure in humiliating these high-minded celestial maidens as a form of amusement and gossip.

    Such incidents were all too familiar to them; even their own departures from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm invited such disrespectful challenges, let alone the other disciples.

    The fate of many disciples of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm who disappeared in the outside world was all too clear to anyone.

    "Once we lose our seat in the Heavenly Deity Alliance, the number of our girls facing disaster will surely increase tenfold, a hundredfold!"

    "It must be the Southern Divine Dragon Realm behind this!"

    They knew both the instigator and the consequences.

    But the real problem was, bound by the ancestralws set by the founders of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, it was nearly impossible for the three of them to mend rtions with other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance to block this decision.

    None were skilled at such negotiations.

    And with everyone else already forming cliques, trying to mend fences now would be like locking the barn after the horse had bolted¡ªunless they were willing to break taboos and use their bodies as bargaining chips, nobody would be interested in helping them, a world closed off and proud, living by its own rules.

    "We have only one option¡ªto break into the top ten," the Ice Lineage Diva said through clenched teeth.

    "But that''s the most unlikely of all..." Wan Ji shook her head.

    "Do you have so little faith in your daughters?" The Ice Lineage Diva looked at her sharply.

    "It''s not a matter of confidence. Were the contest fair, with dozens of slots like other sects, what would there be to fear? But with only eight spots and the other sects conspiring against us, my daughters must be far stronger than the rest, facing a battleground skewed against them. Think about it. Even in your youths, could you manage that?" Wan Ji questioned with a stir of agitation.

    She knew the trials her daughters faced all too well and feared not a fair fight but the shadow of bias.

    "It''s our fault. We three failed to foresee this, to foster rtions that could have shielded our children from bing targets," Wan Ji admitted, her voice trembling with regret.

    From the founding days of the Harmony Divine Pce, their mission had been to preserve the matrilineal legacy, a lifeline not easily intertwined with the dealings of others.

    "me serves no purpose now," the white-haired and pink-eyed Si Ji spoke with depth, dismissing self-reproach.

    "Si Ji, if you have a thought, let''s hear it," Wan Ji urged, looking up to her.

    The Snow Lineage Diva, lips pursed, then shaking her head, replied, "Our founders chose this solitary path for us, to live apart from the world in an idyllic haven. We must rely on ourselves. In a world driven by desire and conflict, no one pities isted maidens; they only seek to conquer."

    "How do we rely on ourselves, though?" That was the question lingering in the air.

    Wan Ji and the Ice Lineage Diva exchanged a nce, picking up on the implications in the Snow Lineage Diva''s words. In that moment, doubt had no ce; they simply bowed their heads in resignation.

    "Regardless, the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects approaches," the Ice Lineage Diva shifted focus, looking towards the Snow Lineage Diva, "How is Feng Yao doing?"

    "Her progress is startling; she might just aplish something great," the Snow Lineage Diva replied, her eyes softening as she mentioned Feng Yao, clearly moved by her pupil''s talents.

    "But before she sets out, remember to give her the Moon Seed. News of her Boundless Immortal potential has already spread, stirring all the sects. This assembly, she''ll be the center of attention, and I suspect their n to push us out of the Heavenly Deity Alliance is just to draw her out and eliminate the thorn in their side," the Ice Lineage Diva asserted.

    "Are we still letting Feng Yaopete?" Wan Ji asked, dismayed.

    "Of course, she must!" the Ice Lineage Diva insisted confidently.

    Her strategy was clear; as the little sweetheart of a Boundless Immortal, who would dare harm her? This was her cunning n. Despite the distasteful machinations around them, she alone had never been truly afraid,forted by the presence of a powerful old sage like Yun Xiao.

    "What do you think, Si Ji?" Wan Ji turned to the Snow Lineage Diva, who looked strangely at the Ice Lineage Diva, puzzled by her confidence.

    "Feng Yao told me she''s determined to fight; I can''t dissuade her," she finally said.

    "Very well... but consider it carefully on the way!" Wan Ji advised, protective of Feng Yao above all.

    The meeting was winding down. "Let''s get ready to depart," the Ice Lineage Diva dered.

    "Hold on," Wan Ji paused, then addressed both, "As a constion, the Heavenly Deity Alliance gave us an extra slot for this year''s Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. We can send nine disciples topete..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 829: The Strongest Slave Enters the Stage!

    The Ice Lineage Diva, Yu Ji, flew into a rage and eximed, "This is purely sickening! It''s unfair to begin with. They unterally carry out a motion to boot us from the Heavenly Deity Alliance, and we only get one extra spot in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects aspensation? I hope their whole families rot!"

    The Heavenly Deity Alliance''s actions were akin to stabbing them in the back and then offering a morsel of food, cheekily adding, <em>Aren''t I kind? At least you won''t go hungry!</em>

    It was no different than rubbing salt on the wound!

    "Still, it''s better to use the spot and fill it." Wan Ji sighed in resignation.

    "The problem is, with Yan Feixue gone, we don¡¯t have a suitable candidate," the Ice Lineage Diva stated.

    "There¡¯s not much time left. Your Ice Lineage must hurry and find an appropriate disciple," Wan Ji instructed.

    Her implication was clear. Her Sea Lineage had offered her seven daughters, and the Snow Lineage had Feng Yao in the fray; it was time for the Ice Lineage to participate.

    As the Frost Sword Devil, the Ice Lineage Diva naturally would not shy away, even if the path ahead seemed perilous.

    "Alright." Having said this, the Ice Lineage Diva instantly flew away on her Sovereign Sword."Si Ji!" Wan Ji called out to the beauty with white hair and pink eyes.

    The Snow Lineage Diva turned around, her gaze serene.

    "If it reallyes to a life or death situation, it''s up to you to survive. I¡¯m at my wits'' end, having nothing left to offer the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm but my daughters, nothing but to meet death. You¡¯re young, you are the future, you must persevere," Wan Ji said, her eyes slowly reddening.

    The Snow Lineage Diva trembled. Then, she took a deep breath and said, "Okay." With that single word, she felt the weight on her shoulders grow heavier, making even turning around difficult.

    Afterwards, the Sea Lineage Diva, alone once again, returned to the Sea Diva Ruins. There, seven stunningly beautiful young maidens were waiting for her.

    "Mother, is it time to depart?" The youngest, with chin-length hair and round, clear eyes, looked innocently enchanting with her big, round eyes full of naivety.

    "Almost, Hai Ying." Wan Ji recalled the matter of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. Then, she thought of those vile faces ogling at her daughters, who were so innocent, passionate, and full of dreams¡­ And she felt her heart being cut apart, knowing she was sending them to their doom.

    Her daughters didn''t yet grasp that this Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects would be ten times more brutal than any before. Usually, one or two sisters would never make it home. But this time, how many of them would return?

    Looking at their young faces, naive to the world''s cruelties, her heart ached terribly, tears shimmering in her eyes. But what could she do?

    Her daughters were the strongest of their age in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, blessed with the finest resources. It was their duty to stand and defend their home and honor.

    "Mother, what''s wrong?" The daughters crowded around, each one concerned. Their tight-knit family was a testament to Wan Ji''s skilled and heartfelt governance.

    "It''s nothing." Wan Ji forced a smile, then pulled out seven white pills from her robes. "Take these Moon Seeds," her voice trembled slightly as she spoke.

    At the mention of the Moon Seeds, a solemn expression fell over the girls.

    The youngest, Hai Ying, asked, "Mother, is it really necessary to take this?"

    "It is necessary. Every disciple of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm must take one, even me," Wan Ji insisted seriously.

    "What if I identally break the shell of the Moon Seed and release its poison?" Hai Ying asked nervously.

    "Don''t worry, it won''t break identally. It''s very safe¡ªit''s our guardian to protect our purity," Wan Ji said sternly.

    "Mhmm."

    Though hesitant, the daughters finally consumed the Moon Seeds.

    "I heard that when the poison of the Moon Seed activates, it instantly corrodes our bodies, turning us into a mist of ice and snow that dissipates into the air..." ?

    "Yes."

    "How terrifying..."

    "Don''t worry, we won''t need it. Our Harmony Divine Pce is a member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. Who would dare cross us?"

    Listening to the hushed conversation of her daughters, Wan Ji felt a piercing pain in her heart.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    At the Snow Diva Ruins, Yun Xiao had barely returned when the voice of the Snow Lineage Diva echoed near his ear.

    "Come find me," she said.

    Yun Xiao rose and entered the deepest chamber of her pce.

    Inside the chamber, shey stretched out, her perfect form hidden in the shadows, so beautiful that even the slightest outline in the dim light was startling.

    "It''s not even morning yet. What''s the rush?" Yun Xiao said.

    "We''re leaving soon," the Snow Lineage Diva replied coolly.

    "Alright."

    This being their third time, Yun Xiao wasted no further words. Going through the motions, he smoothly carried out his task as faint sounds filled the darkness.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Not in a good mood?" Yun Xiao asked, noticing herck of engagement, which resulted in less release of spiritual yin energy.

    "It''s none of your business," the Snow Lineage Diva responded coldly.

    "Then think of something happy," Yun Xiao suggested.

    The Snow Lineage Diva didn''t reply, but she did be more involved, gradually finding her rhythm.

    After a while, she was enveloped in a red mist, slumped in a corner, drenched in sweat, panting heavily.

    Despite this, it was clear her aura was growing more formidable, her vital energy surging, and although her body seemed weak, she was undergoing a transformation.

    "Go find Feng Yao, then wait for me together," the Snow Lineage Diva said, her head lowered, her voice soft.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao opened the door to leave.

    Unexpectedly, upon opening the door, he saw the Ice Lineage Diva Yu Jiing in from outside.

    "Senior..." Seeing Yun Xiao, the Ice Lineage Diva''s face lit up, the frostiness vanishing in an instant.

    "Shh¡­" Yun Xiao put a finger to his mouth and smiled gently.

    "Okay!" The Ice Lineage Diva nodded obediently and then added, "I''m here to see Si Ji."

    As she spoke, her gaze drifted past Yun Xiao to the chamber behind him, where the Snow Lineage Divay disheveled, her face flushed.

    At that moment, the Ice Lineage Diva''s body trembled, her heart racing, and a blush spread across her face unbidden.

    "They''re about to leave, and they were still..." Her emotions surged, a tumult of feelings welled inside her¡ªenvy intermingled with restraint.

    "Yu Ji," the Snow Lineage Diva called out. She''d already guessed that both her sisters had realized she was using this ve to break through. So, she no longer tried to hide it. She slowly stood, leaning against the wall, and asked, "What is it?"

    Yu Ji took a deep breath and replied, "I''ve found a disciple named Liu Qin to fill the ninth spot."

    "If you''ve decided, then it''s settled," the Snow Lineage Diva said.

    Unbeknownst to her, the Ice Lineage Diva was only using the matter of finding a ninth disciple as a pretext. Her real purpose was to seek out Yun Xiao for advice and hear his thoughts about the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    "Si Ji, have you spoken to him about the Heavenly Deity Alliance?" Yu Ji asked cautiously.

    "Him?" The Snow Lineage Diva was taken aback. Why would she discuss such a critical matter with a lowly ve?

    "Ahem." Yun Xiao coughed and winked at Yu Ji.

    Yu Ji, unsure of his intentions but obeying his gesture, halted immediately.

    "Then, it''s settled. Liu Qin will take the ninth spot," the Snow Lineage Diva concluded. This was partly to make Yu Ji leave sooner; she needed to catch her breath.

    "Why add someone else?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    The Snow Lineage Diva shot him a cold look, her silence speaking volumes. <em>What does it matter to you?</em>

    But before she could voice it, the Ice Lineage Diva quickly exined, "The Heavenly Deity Alliance has granted us an extra spot at thest minute. We at the Harmony Divine Pce must make it into the top ten, or else we face serious trouble. We have to use every slot we''ve got."

    "What kind of trouble?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Why do you ask so many questions?" the Snow Lineage Diva said, exasperated.

    "Si Ji, what kind of attitude is that?" The Ice Lineage Diva red at her, then with a mix of sorrow and frustration, she exined the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s decision and the looming disasters for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to Yun Xiao.

    The Snow Lineage Diva lookedpletely baffled. Her second sister Yu Ji was usually colder than ice. Now, she was acting tender and almost coquettish towards a lowly ve¡­

    "Oh..." Yun Xiao muttered after listening, now with a rough understanding.

    "I''d need an identity to participate in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects..." Thinking this through, he then dered, "Let''s do this¡ªgive the ninth spot to me, and I''ll fight on behalf of the Harmony Divine Pce."

    "You''re speaking nonsense..." The Snow Lineage Diva had barely started speaking when the Ice Lineage Diva, overtaken by excitement, jumped up and eximed, "That''s perfect!"

    "What¡­!?" The Snow Lineage Diva was left bewildered. "Just like that...?"

    The Ice Lineage Diva''s only concern was whether Yun Xiao would qualify. No doubt she believed an old sage like him was far older than her. But his body double here might just be young enough. Even if it wasn''t, couldn''t a Boundless Immortal like him employ some trickery?

    "Yes!" Yun Xiao quickly agreed, cutting her off before she could mention him being a body double.

    "No problem at all, I''ll arrange the registration right away," the Ice Lineage Diva hurriedly said.

    "Go ahead," Yun Xiao replied.

    "But, representing the Harmony Divine Pce, you can only do so as a ve..." Yu Ji said apologetically.

    "I am a ve," Yun Xiao responded with a smile.

    "Indeed¡­" The Ice Lineage Diva blinked, gave a cute smile, and then turned to hurry with the registration, fearing Yun Xiao might slip away.

    Now, only Yun Xiao and the Snow Lineage Diva remained in the chamber.

    Yun Xiao nced back at her and gave a dryugh.

    "Stop right there!" The Snow Lineage Diva called out, floating in front of him, sizing him up.

    "Diva, is there something?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Did you give Yu Ji some sort of enchantment drug?" the Snow Lineage Diva asked.

    "Not at all," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Why is she so thrilled about you fighting?" she asked, puzzled.

    "Perhaps that Diva recognizes my extraordinary talents," Yun Xiao said.

    "..."

    The white-haired, pink-eyed woman was visibly confused.

    "What is going on here..."

    Everything felt strange to her, especially this young man, who seemed almost ethereal.

    "Is it because I''m too tired after that session? Why do I feel like Yu Ji is worshiping a lowly ve?" Si Ji muttered in confusion. Then, she shook her head. "I must be imagining things."

    Just then, the Sea Lineage Diva issued a rallying call. The time to depart had arrived!

    Yun Xiao now had his mission. This journey was to battle in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects!

    "A eunuch going to war, how unprecedented¡­" Yun Xiao said with a wry smile.

 Chapter 830: Call Me Daddy!

    At dawn, the dark canopy of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm stretched across the icy sea of the Harmony Divine Pce. Looking out, the icy spires and snowy mists above the cold sea presented a sight of breathtaking beauty.

    Yet, despite the splendor, Yun Xiao knew he had to leave this ce as soon as possible. It was for no other reason than the fact that the person he cared abouty ahead!

    Before setting out, Yun Xiao had a chance encounter with Feng Yao at the Snow Diva Ruins!

    "Where have you been? I couldn¡¯t find you all night!" Feng Yao stared him down, her face stern, her presence overwhelming, suspicion written all over her face.

    "I was immersed in cultivation," Yun Xiao exined.

    "I don¡¯t buy it. You¡¯re a master of managing time; who knows how many women you flirted with in one night." Feng Yao¡¯s piercing gaze tried to press the truth out of him.

    "If you¡¯re keen on misunderstanding and belittling me, then I suppose I don''t need to care about your opinion," Yun Xiao replied indifferently.

    "Getting defensive?" Feng Yao pursed her lips, holding back augh, and hummed, "Stop pretending. I understand you more and more."

    "So tell me, what kind of person am I?" Yun Xiao asked, amused.Feng Yao sized him up and scoffed, "Greedy, wrathful, foolish, and... lustful! A man who only cares about his whims!"

    Yun Xiao looked at her, speechless.

    "And you im to be a carefree Immortal?" Feng Yao seemed to have touched a nerve, she crossed her arms andughed mockingly, her expression scornful.

    "If you know I¡¯m such awless scoundrel, why are you so pleased to be my little mistress?" Yun Xiao countered.

    Feng Yao faltered, her lips twitching as she retorted, "Who¡¯s your little mistress!"

    "You¡¯re just stubborn."

    Feng indeed understood Yun Xiao, but did he not understand her just as well?

    In a way, they were very much alike; both possessed a pure true nature and enjoyed overpowering others and showing off. The difference was her naivete, while Yun Xiao was more unrestrained.

    "Speaking of, how didst night go?" Yun Xiao cut to the chase, uninterested in further bickering.

    At this point, she faltered a bit and then spoke lightly, "It went okay, I guess. Broke through three stages, got a Cmity Source, and entered the Third Baptism Realm."

    "The effects of the Harmony Divine Pool are quite impressive then," Yun Xiao remarked. Even he wasn''t that fast!

    "Of course, the inner pool is made up of the blood of Seven-Hearted Beasts or greater!" Feng Yao exined.

    "Speaking of which, absorbing all this Divine Spring Blood won¡¯t get you pregnant, will it?" Yun Xiao asked, somewhat concerned.

    "Get real. Divine Spring Blood and Divine Spring Water aren¡¯t the same thing!" Feng Yao said exasperatedly.

    "That''s good then."

    With Feng Yao''s advancement into the Third Baptism Realm, her power would likely rival the very top Samsara Disciples of the Samsara Gxy.

    She was sure to make a mark at the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects!

    "And you? Are you going to continue lying low, not making a move?" Feng Yao asked.

    She had relished many opportunities to showcase herselftely and was quite thrilled. But Yun Xiao had been skulking behind her, letting her lead the charge alone, which left her somewhat unsettled.

    "Who said that? I¡¯m about to join you in action, representing the Harmony Divine Pce to fight in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects," Yun Xiao dered.

    "You''re pretty good at making jokes, aren''t you Lil Yun?" Feng Yao said, not knowing whether tough or cry.

    It was impossible for a ve to participate! The higher-ups of the Harmony Divine Pce would have to be crazy to allow that to happen!

    Knowing she didn¡¯t believe him, Yun Xiao said nothing more, only offering a knowing smile.

    However, Feng Yao only felt more anxious, prompting her to ask, "Come on, what¡¯s really happening?"

    "The Ice Lineage Diva, with her discerning eye, recognized my unparalleled talent and exceptionally allowed me to join the battle," Yun Xiao exined.

    "The Ice Lineage Diva?" Feng Yao looked at him incredulously. "I still don''t believe it. It''s too far-fetched for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm; no one would agree to it!" Feng Yao argued.

    The logic was clear! To the women here, a ve was no more than livestock. Which n¡¯s genius would send their own beast topete? No matter how strong that beast might be, it was still a beast. Wasn''t this just a joke?

    The Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was the grandest, most solemn gathering across the 18 Ster Rivers of the Samsara Gxy!

    Feng Yao was still skeptical when, just then, the Snow Lineage Diva appeared and, without a word, indeed swept them along toward the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs.

    The Harmony Divine Pce¡¯s teleportation formation was just behind the Peak of Heavenly Nymphs in the Valley of Nymphs.

    Obviously, both ces were off-limits to ves. Yet today, the intent of the Snow Lineage Diva to take Yun Xiao was clear.

    "Diva, have you forgotten something?" Feng Yao asked.

    "What is it?" The Snow Lineage Diva seemed preupied, her gaze as cold as the snowy realm, not even turning as she spoke.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Weren''t we going to make Lil Yun crossdress to sneak him out?" Feng Yao asked, wanting to embarrass Yun Xiao, at least this one time.

    The Snow Lineage Diva remembered the suggestion but quickly shook her head. "No need for that, he''ll represent the Harmony Divine Pce in the battle."

    "What¡­?" Feng Yao was dumbfounded. What on earth had happened! Sending livestock to battle in ce of the talented?

    She was aware of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm''s precarious position within the Samsara Gxy and thought to herself, "Isn''t this just making us aughingstock?"

    What she didn''t know was that for the three Divas, this matter was trivialpared to the looming crisis facing the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "What exactly did you do?" Feng Yao pressed, returning to Yun Xiao¡¯s side, her beautiful eyes wide with curiosity.

    "Wanna know? Call me daddy." Yun Xiao smirked.

    "Get lost! More like you''re my son!" Feng Yao huffed.

    "Then, should I start calling you mommy?" Yun Xiao joked.

    "Get out, get out, you scoundrel!" Feng Yao blushed furiously, appalled that such words could even be spoken.

    She nced nervously at the Snow Lineage Diva, thankful that she was too preupied to overhear their private whispers.

    Soon, they arrived at the Valley of Nymphs.

    At this moment, the valley was teeming with various Valkyrie Queens, Valkyrie Princesses, and Valkyries, along with many Samsara and Taiji Disciples gathered in the distance.

    Their faces solemn and reverent, they were there to send off the warriors of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    This departure drew an evenrger crowd than the previous selections.

    By the time Yun Xiao and the others arrived, Wan Ji, Yu Ji, and the seven participating daughters of the Sea Lineage Diva were already there.

    Upon the Snow Lineage Diva''s arrival, all who were departing had assembled.

    The Sea Lineage Diva, suspended high above, faced the gathered Valkyrie Queens and Valkyrie Princesses. She loudly dered, "There''s been a slight change to our ns. The three of us Divas will lead ninebatants. The rest, originally scheduled to travel, will stay behind in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    This decision seemed to have been discussed with the others beforehand. So, the announcement didn''t cause much of a stir.

    Yun Xiao looked around and observed the higher ranks of the Harmony Divine Pce. Their heavy expressions, some tinged with sorrow and grief, created a rather oppressive atmosphere.

    Clearly, the decree of the Heavenly Deity Alliance had already spread among the upper echelons.

    They all knew what the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was up against...

    This Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was more like a desperate fight for the future of the entire realm by its youth.

    Among the core members, only Feng Yao was left out of the loop. Her expression was odd as she whispered to Yun Xiao, "What''s going on? Why does everyone seem so unhappy?"

    Yun Xiao exined sinctly about the business of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, "In short, our neighbors in the Heavenly Deity Ster River are disregarding ancient pacts and stirring trouble."

    "That''s bad. Once pacts are broken, they tend to be broken thoroughly." Feng Yao bit her lip.

    "Indeed. The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is considered entric, out of the mainstream. So, they''d be targeted sooner orter," Yun Xiao said.

    "The top ten, huh?" Feng Yao, who might have felt pressured alone, now felt reassured hearing that Yun Xiao was involved. "Too bad for them. They can scheme all they want, but they never anticipated encountering a monstrous ve like you..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 831: Setting Off!

    "It''s still too early to say this; time is short, and I''m not progressing as swiftly as you," Yun Xiao remarked.

    He had crushed his way to the present, facing the most tenacious of foes¡ªLu Fan, Chaos Soul, singing his way through the battles like a true, carefree Immortal. Yet, he did not allow pride to cloud his judgment.

    After all, even a Category 1 ce like the Great Dao Celestial Realm concealed heaven-defying <em>protagonists</em> like the system-user Lu Fan; scorned cripple Ye Xingchen; and reborn Divine Sky Sword Emperor, Ling Chen.

    Who knew what monstersy in wait within the Category 3 Samsara Gxy?

    Staying grounded was crucial!

    "I get it now!" Feng Yao suddenly scoffed at Yun Xiao, saying, "You''re really something, aren''t you? Jumping right into the fray, saving the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm from disaster, gaining the tearful gratitude of countless maidens, all of them throwing themselves into your arms¡­"

    No sooner had she spoken than she suddenly grabbed Yun Xiao''s arm, her lips pursed as she used, "Your true aim isn''t to turn the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm into your harem, is it?"

    At this, Yun Xiao nearly choked on his own blood, gritting his teeth, "What do you take me for? I''m not some breeding stallion."

    "That''s true, you do have taste..." Feng Yao then turned her gaze to the Divas and Valkyrie Queens, sourly adding, "When you rise against the odds to protect the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, at least these beauties won''t escape your palm.""I can''t be bothered to talk about this," Yun Xiao said, speechless.

    "Caught you out, didn''t I?" Feng Yao chuckled.

    After that, seeing Yun Xiao ignoring her, she huffed and changed the subject, "Speaking of which, those poor weak women are targeted by the entire Heavenly Deity Alliance. It¡¯s quite pitiful; they do need some help."

    "Heh." Yun Xiaoughed.

    "So, you''re not pitying them and trying to y the hero?" Feng Yao asked, puzzled.

    "What¡¯s there to pity? They''ve made their bed. That''s the end result of thousands of years of waging war on the other gender, behaving pretentiously, and isting themselves. Frankly, it''s no surprise they''re being targeted," Yun Xiao said.

    Feng Yao thought he was blinded by beauty and had forgotten these issues, so she asked, "Then why still fight for them?"

    "You''re overthinking it. I fight for myself; battling is my quickest path to advancement. The Harmony Divine Pce just happens to offer me shelter for now, in these pressing times. I don¡¯t have the luxury to look for other backers," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Oh¡­" Feng Yao tilted her head, pondering, "So when they''ve warmed up to you enough and are sufficiently grateful, you could address the ve issue in a rather bloodless way¡­ Looking at it that way, you¡¯re practically a saint!"

    "Saint my ass," Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help butugh and cry, "It¡¯s just that I see the root of the ve issue, left by their foolish ancestors. I want to eradicate this chronic disease, starting by breaking their faith in these founders to fundamentally change things."

    "Oh!" Every time the two of them touched onplicated issues like this, Feng Yao looked up to Yun Xiao, utterly dazzled once again. Then, she looked at him solemnly and warned, "Just be aware, leveraging such a desperate situation for support, you''ll face endless foes across the Heavenly Deity Ster River."

    Yun Xiao''s eyes twinkled slightly as he chuckled, "I wouldn''t have it any other way. The greater the storm, the more valuable the fish."

    For him, the most vital thing was always himself.

    "Your words, they stir the blood in my veins!" Feng Yao eximed, thrilled.

    Yun Xiao smiled. "Right, stick with me and we''ll do great things."

    "Indeed." Feng Yao nodded, then turned back to gaze at the three Divas, unable to suppress a sigh. "Truth be told, from my interactions with these Divas, I''ve found them to be more peaceful than the usual women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. They''re not nearly as cruel." ?

    "That''s because they stand on higher ground, seeing clearly that everything the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm upholds is wrong. It''s impossible for them to rule over all men, and it''s even more impossible for them to incite a gender war across the Samsara Gxy.

    "So, they keep a low profile, reluctantly adhering to the ancient decrees set by their ancestors. That''s why they''re different from the ordinary celestial maidens, who are haughty, snarling, and quick to tout female superiority, gathering ves and fostering envy," Yun Xiao exined.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Oh," Feng Yao nodded, a light of understanding in her eyes. "No wonder the Snow Lineage Diva sought you out and immediately freed those millions of ves."

    Yun Xiao too hade to understand this through his interactions with the three Divas. To be honest, they were indeed in a difficult and reluctant position. They had to enforce the will of their ancestors.

    The will of the ancestors was to defy the world. Knowing they couldn¡¯t possibly win, they aimed to keep as low a profile as possible, staying closed off to avoid contact with the outside world.

    Behind them, the ignorant celestial maidens had aspirations as high as the skies, blindly pushing them to confront the world.

    Stuck in the middle, they indeed suffered greatly.

    And now, after years of standing defiantly alone, the bacsh had arrived.

    The first to rush out to defend the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were still them and their descendants.

    As for the ordinary celestial maidens of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, like Zhao Mengmeng during the pce selection¡­ if the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s de didn¡¯t fall on their necks, they would continue to dream their grand dreams of overturning the norm and leading a maternal domination over the Samsara Gxy.

    The Harmony Divine Pce wasn''t on the side of justice!

    Of course, Yun Xiao didn¡¯t think the myriad factions of the Heavenly Deity Alliance targeting them were right either.

    It would be more fitting to view this situation not through the lens of good and evil but rather as a conflict of principles.

    If Yun Xiao had to take a side, he naturally stood with the ves.

    If these three Divas had also helped him set sail, he would naturally reciprocate.

    It was just that simple, open-hearted, with a mind clear of tangles.

    As the Sea Lineage Diva concluded her announcement, under hermand, the three Divas, apanied by Wan Ji''s seven daughters, along with Yun Xiao and Feng Yao, prepared to move toward the teleportation formation.

    It was a group of twelve, but Yun Xiao stood out like a sore thumb!

    "Three Divas!" Several Valkyrie Queens stepped forward, confusion etched on their faces. "We have nine spots, but why are only eight filled? And in such a gathering, why bring a ve?"

    The Ice Lineage Diva spoke inly in the presence of all the Valkyrie Queens, Valkyrie Princesses, and Valkyries. "Feng Yao''s ve has been jointly tested by us and found to meet the standards inbat prowess. Additionally, he is willing to exert himself for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. We have collectively decided to include him as a secret weapon in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects!"

    Wan Ji couldn''t help but roll her eyes, muttering to herself, "Collectively? Wasn''t it you who insisted on this?"

    She didn¡¯t bother to interfere, considering Yun Xiao was her family''s lifesaver.

    And the Snow Lineage Diva remained silent, unsure of what Yu Ji intended.

    "But he''s still a ve..."

    Though the Ice Lineage Diva''s mysterious assertion stirred imaginations, the higher-ups of the Harmony Divine Pce still harbored significant reservations about <em>livestock</em> joining the battle.

    "There''s no need to dwell on this."

    Wan Ji, unwilling to argue over such trifles before departure, put an end to it with a single statement.

    "Understood!" The Valkyrie Queens, though inwardly perplexed, could only nod in forced agreement.

    "Even if a ve is exceptional, what can it truly achieve?"

    "Will he not just turn the Harmony Divine Pce into a greaterughingstock?"

    Such doubts, they kept to themselves.

    "Farewell, Divas!"

    As the light from the teleportation formation shone, the Valkyrie Queens set aside their helplessness and gloom, bowing deeply, hearts filled with prayers, hoping these expeditioners could save the world they so cherished...

 Chapter 832: Grand Assembly Arena!

    The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm''s representatives entered the teleportation formation!

    The three Divas, each trailing serpent tails of dark green, icy blue, and pale pink, led the way.

    Behind them, the seven stunning daughters of Wan Ji, simr in features but strikingly different in style, followed suit.

    Finally, Yun Xiao and Feng Yao quietly brought up the rear. A devil and ve, their presence shing starkly with the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    The three Divas turned around in the center of the formation. The Sea Lineage Diva took the middle spot, nked by the Ice Lineage Diva on the left, and the Snow Lineage Diva on the right.

    Their appearances and auras differed, yet they shared the same attribute¡ªa lofty, transcendent beauty that demanded respect. Though women, they symbolized fierce resolve.

    "For the Harmony Divine Pce! Victory is ours!"

    A deafening cheer echoed from outside.

    Hearing this, the conviction in their eyes seemed to amplify threefold.The three Divas exchanged nces. Under theirmand, the colorful celestial formation at their feet suddenly sparkled to life. This sole gateway of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm began absorbing celestial energy and activated.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The area was bathed in a dazzling light that obscured everything!

    The celestial formation¡¯s shifting power, vast as the sea, acted upon them. For a moment, Yun Xiao felt as though he was caught in a whirlpool, his body jostled and pulled towards the deep sea.

    "Ah." Feng Yao, slightly anxious, instinctively grasped Yun Xiao''s arm, fearing the formation might malfunction and send them to different ces.

    "Such a scaredy-cat." Yun Xiao smiled helplessly and drew her into his embrace.

    Though this Yin Devil was slender and tall, holding her was somewhat strenuous due to her height and build. He had to move his hands lower to encircle her slim waist to fully embrace her.

    However, in doing so, Yun Xiao''s face was buried deep between her chest, held in ce by her nervous grip, leaving the young man in his arms gasping for breath.

    "Ugh..."

    And so it was, amidst the starry ocean of this celestial formation, they drifted, guided by the shifting forces.

    The journey was long, and the process of shifting took its time.

    Immersed in bliss, Yun Xiao had forgotten the passage of time. Atst, unaware of the moment, he felt a sudden lightness, as though surfacing from the depths. Though still unable to breathe, he distinctly felt the environment had changed around him.

    In the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the celestial energy was chilling to the bone.

    Here, however, this new ce seemed to brim with various types of celestial energy. Impure perhaps, but the volume and richness were sufficient, at least making Yun Xiao feel more at ease.

    This all indicated one thing. They had arrived at their destination!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Sister, look over there!"

    The voices of Wan Ji''s daughters reached his ears.

    It was probably their first time leaving the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. So, their curiosity about this new world was palpable.

    "Are we there?" Feng Yao, still dizzy from the motion, finally came to her senses, nced down, and in a scare, thought she had smothered Yun Xiao to death. ?

    "Are you alright?" she asked.

    Yun Xiao shot her a look and said, "Next time, wear softer clothes, they''re scraping my face."

    "Keep dreaming. Next time I''ll wear armor with spikes. See if you dare then," she huffed.

    "Weren''t you the one who started it? Just keep pretending," Yun Xiao mercilessly teased.

    "It wasn''t me!" She bit her lip in denial, her heart pounding.

    Just then, she felt some odd stares. Turning around, she saw that it was the three Divas watching them.

    They had been observing for a while. Perhaps they noticed Yun Xiao and Feng Yao embracing as they arrived.

    Their expressions varied.

    The Sea Lineage Diva looked slightly puzzled and surprised.

    The Ice Lineage Diva wasn''t surprised; everything unfolded as she had anticipated, Feng Yao was, after all, the cherished sweetheart of the senior.

    The Snow Lineage Diva''s demeanor, however, frosted over with clear disapproval.

    Though Yun Xiao had once saved Feng Yao, Si Ji had already cautioned her to maintain a distance from him.

    "Feng Yao,e here." Si Ji called Feng Yao aside for a private reprimand.

    As a disciple of the Harmony Divine Pce, it was crucial for Feng Yao to keep a distance from any ve or man to avoid ridicule and shame. This was doubly true now that they had left the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, with countless eyes gazing at them.

    Seeing Feng Yao standing there like a scolded child, Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh.

    He, like the daughters of Wan Ji, began to survey their new surroundings.

    Beneath their feety a colossal celestial formation, its iridescent lights shimmering far more grandly than the Harmony Divine Pce''s formation, clearly a massive central teleportation nexus.

    Below this colorful formation, a host of Celestial Sourcecores provided power, simr to those outside the Six Paths of Reincarnation.

    Comparatively, the formation of the Six Paths of Reincarnation wasrger, but this one underfoot dazzled more brilliantly, starlit and ethereal, resembling something out of this world.

    "This is the Heavenly Deity Ster Formation!"

    Yun Xiao overheard Wan Ji''s daughters discussing the name of the formation.

    "Look over there! That¡¯s the Grand Assembly Arena!"

    Following their pointed direction, Yun Xiao saw above the horizon near the Heavenly Deity Ster Formation, countless brilliant starlights filling the dark void, resembling 10,000 dazzling jewels, not only splendid but also radiating immense power.

    "The Grand Assembly Arena?" Yun Xiao realized that this was the venue for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, a battleground for thepetition.

    The Grand Assembly Arena, situated at the heart of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, was quite renowned, making it one of the central locations within the Samsara Gxy''s 18 Ster Rivers.

    Standing there, looking around the Heavenly Deity Ster Formation, it was clear to see that the surrounding cosmos brimmed with splendid stars, each a Celestial Sourcecore, with some as vast as the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm itself.

    These Celestial Sourcecores converged into a dazzling ster river that streaked across the sky, casting brilliant starlight upon the dark cosmos, a sight of immense grandeur!

    This river was indeed the Heavenly Deity Ster River, and the Grand Assembly Arena was nestled within this river of Celestial Sourcecores.

    "It''s hard not to marvel at the Grand Assembly Arena," Yun Xiao mused. "The stars of the arena, being so close, shine even brighter than the entire expanse of the Heavenly Deity Ster River."

    At that moment, the Sea Lineage Diva was also enlightening her daughters.

    "See those 10,000 stars? Each is less than one-thousandth the size of a standard Celestial Sourcecore. Yet, each contains more than ten times the celestial energy. Do you know why?" Wan Ji asked her daughters, her voice gentle and patient.

    "We don''t know, Mother!" The daughters shook their heads.

    "It''s because they have beenpressed by the power of an ancient celestial formation utilized by the Boundless Immortal ancestors, crushed into a fraction of their original size¡ªa thousandfold," Wan Ji exined with admiration.

    "Are Boundless Immortals really that powerful?"

    The daughters were astounded by such an unimaginable feat.

    "Celestial power is boundless, naturally defying the heavens."

    Wan Ji nced at the Snow Lineage Diva then continued to her daughters, "Thesepressed Celestial Sourcecores are called Taiyi Sourcecores. There are 10,000 Taiyi Sourcecores in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, all gathered here."

    "Taiyi Sourcecores?" Yun Xiao was struck by the revtion. Each of these stars, which looked no bigger than arge meteor, possessed ten times the celestial energy of the Celestial Court.

    Such power truly affirmed the might of a Boundless Immortal!

    "Each Taiyi Sourcecore corresponds to one of the myriad sects of the Samsara Gxy. Ours is called the Extreme Yin Star. You''ll ascend it and use it as a base to engage with the myriad other sects in a simted celestial war..." Wan Ji disclosed.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao was just beginning to grasp the rules of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    Well now, that¡¯s interesting! Put simply, the Grand Assembly Arena was a miniature version of the Samsara Gxy!

    The mightiest of the myriad sects, each holding a Taiyi Sourcecore, stationed their top disciples there for what? A game of attack and defense?

    This was, in essence, a simted celestial war across the stars!

    "No wonder the number of participants is crucial. We have only nine; if others bring dozens, we¡¯ll surely be at a disadvantage in a starry siege," Yun Xiao mused quietly.

    So, Yun Xiao, Feng Yao, and Wan Ji''s seven daughters would guard their Extreme Yin Star, making up an eight-women-and-one-man team.

    It was miniature star wars!

    After hearing this, Wan Ji''s daughters parted slightly, and their faces paled a touch.

    All of them were well aware that the Harmony Divine Pce was a prize many longed to conquer. Who could predict how many celestial prodigies woulde attacking their sect?

    Up here, on the Heavenly Deity Ster Formation, it was already apparent.

    Many sects were arriving, typically greeted by their own cliques, perhaps allies of different sectsing together, but the group from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm drew no one close; instead, they attracted many a curious nce.

    "Let''s head straight for the Extreme Yin Star." The Ice Lineage Diva was none too pleased with all the stares and had no desire to linger.

    As top powerhouses of the Samsara Gxy, the Three Divas were not approached lightly. The representatives from the other sects could only watch as they departed.

    "Eh? Why is there a man?"

    Their departure instantly stirred a ripple of surprise and mockery.

    "What man? The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is a purgatory for men. He''s definitely castrated, a eunuch for sure."

    "Poor fellow, no wonder he¡¯s so effeminate."

    On the celestial formation, this brief flurry of gossip sparked a smallmotion.

    The Harmony Divine Pce¡¯s representatives were among the earlier arrivals.

    ording to Wan Ji, within the next half day, up to 100,000,000 cultivators would converge on the Grand Assembly Arena

    Among them, some were participating prodigies, while most were spectators from various celestial sects and worlds.

    The Grand Assembly Arena was soon to be the liveliest spot in the Samsara Gxy!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 833: Ancestor Immortal Grotto!

    Those of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm had arrived early, hoping to avoid the chaos and trouble thatrge crowds brought. By settling their disciples on the Extreme Yin Star ahead of time, only then would the Three Divas find some peace of mind.

    Normally, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm would send hundreds, if not up to 1,000 people to attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. But this time, every additional person carried an added risk!

    Yun Xiao lingered at the back of the Harmony Divine Pce''s group. As he drew closer to the 10,000 Taiyi Sourcecores, the dazzling starlight bathed him, making him appear like a deity.

    He noticed that these myriad stars were arranged in a ring¡ªa congregation that grew denser toward the center as one drew closer. Yet the exact location of the Extreme Yin Star remained a mystery.

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao peered toward the center of the Grand Assembly Arena, only to find it devoid of the dense star clusters he expected.

    Instead, there was a sinister, eerie vortex, swirling with dark mist.

    It resembled a gaping maw of darkness, or a bottomless abyss, emitting a ghostly wailing as if countless millions cried out in unison, a sound so chilling it raised the hairs on one''s neck.

    "Mother, is that the Ancestor Immortal Grotto?" a short-haired girl asked the Sea Lineage Diva.

    Her sisters, gazing upon the dark grotto, felt a shiver of fear."Yes, don''t be afraid. I ventured there in my youth, and it was nothing to fear," Wan Ji spoke softly, reassuring them.

    The girls nodded silently, mustering their courage.

    "And remember, you don¡¯t have to enter if you don''t wish to. The battle within the Ancestor Immortal Grotto is a personal contest among the top talents... Our goal at Harmony Divine Pce is to rank among the top ten in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. The grotto battleester," Wan Jiforted.

    "Right, it''s a personal honor, a contest for rewards. It involves inheriting ancient secrets and venturing deep, based on outstanding performances in the Grand Assembly Arena. To be chosen, you mustpete against the elite from all 18 Ster Rivers of the Samsara Gxy¡ªnot an easy task," the Ice Lineage Diva added.

    "Understood!"

    The girls were not so much frightened as they were awestruck, seeing the legendary grotto that symbolized both destruction and fate for the first time.

    "Bro!" Blue Star suddenly called out.

    "What is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "The Third Primordial Coffin is hidden within this Ancestor Immortal Grotto" Blue Star eximed with excitement.

    "So, you mean to say my Senior Sister Zhao might also be in there?" Yun Xiao quickly asked.

    "If she hasn''t perished, she should be," Blue Star replied.

    "To hell with this!" Yun Xiao''s eyes zed as he stared at the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. He had chased this lead here, and now he was close! "First the Grand Assembly Arena, then the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, right? Alright..." ???

    Some very stern guards currently stood watch outside the entrance of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. It seemed to be a shared domain of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, clearly difficult to enter without special permission.

    Yun Xiao would have to grit his teeth and wait until the Grand Assembly Arena was concluded!

    Obviously, while he was saving Zhao Xuanran, he would also take back the Third Primordial Coffin!

    As Yun Xiao looked on at the eerie Ancestor Immortal Grotto, they arrived at the Extreme Yin Star.

    It was a pastel-white Taiyi Sourcecore very simr to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, about one thousandth the size of the Celestial Court, resembling a fortress in the stars.

    If need be, it could house hundreds of thousands!

    ording to the rules, Yun Xiao and his eight fellow prodigious disciples were to defend this Extreme Yin Star and then conquer other stars.

    Clearly, when the final reckoning came, rankings would surely be calcted by the number of territories held!

    The twelve of themnded on the Extreme Yin Star together.

    Once there, Yun Xiao found that, although smaller, the environment and celestial energy here were nearly identical to that of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, instilling in them a natural desire to defend this ce.

    "Our sisters shed much blood here, some even remaining forever, unable to return home..."

    Thinking of this, tears involuntarily filled the eyes of Wan Ji''s daughters.

    "Their graves lie ahead."

    Wan Ji, too, had a daughter buried here, and her heart was filled with endless sorrow. Yet in such moments, she had to stay strong, not letting her grief weaken her daughters'' resolve.

    Beyond a stretch of icy hills, a valley appeared, filled with graves marked by names once hailed as geniuses of the Harmony Divine Pce, now eternally asleep in this foreignnd...

    To die in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects and to be buried in the Grand Assembly Arena was a rule of the Samsara Gxy¡ªdesigned to strengthen the desire to protect and resolve of each new disciple toward their Taiyi Sourcecore.

    "This is your sister Hai Yao. And this is Hai Xi¡­ And this..." As Wan Ji pointed to several tombstones she had erected herself, memories of them welled up, and she found herself unable to continue.

    The seven young women kneeling before these graves had already let tears fall, unable to utter a word.

    With her eyes slightly red, Wan Ji could only close them.

    "Perhaps we should withdraw from thepetition, take the girls back and then seal off the Harmony Divine Celestial Formationpletely," Si Ji suggested.

    The Snow Lineage Deity knew that Wan Ji''s heartache was not for the daughters already sacrificed, but for the seven living ones at her side, who could still weep for the dead. Yet, soon, perhaps they too might lie here permanently.

    "I''m not going back!" Hai Ying, the young short-haired woman among them, looked up determinedly and said, "The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm has no deserters. We should take up our responsibility even more."

    They were keenly intelligent, fully aware of everything. Though the likelihood was death, as cultivators, how could they know if there was no chance without fighting?

    "Pay your respects, then prepare for battle!"

    In contrast, the Ice Lineage Diva, Yu Ji, had no patience for farewells, speaking coldly. After she spoke, the other women said no more.

    Following their respects, they gathered in the valley where Yu Ji emphasized a few points of caution.

    "There are small changes introduced with every Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. I''ll update you on the eve of the battle. You have the better part of a day left; use this chance to solidify your preparations," Yu Ji said.

    "Mother, where will you be then?" Hai Ying asked.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "We''re usually on the Extreme Yin Star too, but we must not intervene. Any intervention, and we''re stripped of our ranking, plummeting to the bottom," Wan Ji responded helplessly.

    This time, the Heavenly Deity Alliance had set a stringent decree for the top ten; wherever they were, they could not interfere even a little bit.

    "Understood."

    Then, they prepared for battle, their backs against the Extreme Yin Star.

    Above the horizon of the Extreme Yin Star, bursts of starlight frequently streaked across the sky. These were the talented disciples and mighty figures from various sects,ughing heartily, utterly at ease, moving in groups, engaging in lively conversations.

    As time passed, their numbers grew.

    Eventually, the Grand Assembly Arena became like a vast inn, buzzing with voices everywhere. Laughter, cheers, old friends reuniting over drinks, making merry and singing songs filled the air.

    Immortals, long separated, now called each Taiyi Sourcecore home, bridging the distances of the entire Samsara Gxy. Visits and warm greetings between them were frequent, creating a lively scene.

    In these moments ofughter, meetings, and gift exchanges, inevitable private alliances and cliques formed.

    With elders making introductions, everything was easier for the younger generation!

    In cultivation, one also cultivated worldly connections. Having skills that reached to the heavens was less valuable than having 80,000 allies.

    Where there were people, there were rivers andkes; where there were rivers andkes, there were factions; with factions came backgrounds, which could be used to bully others!

    In contrast, the atmosphere on the Extreme Yin Star was utterly deste, cold, and silent, like a stubborn and lonely piece of ice amidst a raging fire¡ªring yet pitiable.

    Outside, it was lively and bustling; here, it was bleak and dismal.

    Of course, Yun Xiao felt no pity for them. The state of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was self-inflicted.

    They were contradictions unto themselves, akin to ingesting poison¡ªknowing it was wrong, yet unable to quit or break free.

    The three Divas were utterly at a loss. Theycked foundational support, only possessing endless worries, unease, and a propensity for risky ventures.

    All this was the reason why the Ice Lineage Diva even considered making such a desperate deal with Yun Xiao.

    In the Grand Assembly Arena, those from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were like a group of paranoid prey, always capable of eliciting sinister smirks from the men.

    "Hey!"

    Inside an ice cave on the Extreme Yin Star, Feng Yao red at the rxed young man lying in the snow, and said with a frown, "I still don¡¯t understand. Why did the Ice Lineage Diva allow you to fight?"

    She could already picture it, the mockery Yun Xiao would face when he revealed himself to the crowd.

    "Well, it''s not the first time you haven''t understood something," Yun Xiao said.

    "Could it be¡­? No, impossible. The Ice Lineage Diva''s heart is basically a block of ice; how could you possibly charm her?" Feng Yao said incredulously, gritting her teeth.

    Just then, Yun Xiao sent off a flying talisman.

    "Who are you sending that to?" she asked, suspicious.

    "To the Ice Lineage Diva. I''ve asked her to send me an Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source. I''m nning to break through to the Second Baptism Realm," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Heh, you dream big, don''t you?" Feng Yao folded her arms andughed scornfully.

    Before long, a shadow flitted across the snow outside, and a gentle voice followed, "Senior, Yu Ji requests an audience."

    Hearing this soft, beautiful voice, Feng Yao was stunned on the spot.

    "Enter."

    Then, she saw the Ice Lineage Diva enter cautiously, a blush of shyness and nervousness on her face as she handed Yun Xiao a jade box, saying, "Please, have a look."

    Her demeanor made Feng Yao''s eyes widen, and she couldn''t help but rub them in disbelief.

    Yun Xiao took the jade box, nced at it, and then closed it, saying, "Good, you may leave now."

    "Alright, I won''t disturb you further."

    With that, she bowed slightly and withdrew.

    Feng Yao watched the entire exchange, dumbfounded.

    "No way, did you really fool her that badly? Just by acting all high and mighty around me?" she asked, still in shock.

    "Want to learn how? I can teach you," Yun Xiao offered with a smile.

    "I don''t think it''s something you can teach!" Feng Yao looked at him, speechless. It seemed there was nothing difficult for this guy.

    "Alright, you can go now. I''m going into seclusion." With that, Yun Xiao took the jade box and turned towards the deeper part of the ice cave.

    "I can''t be bothered with you." Feng Yao stood up, her long legs carrying her off to discuss details with her seven femalerades.

    Just as she arrived, she noticed a chill on the faces of Wan Ji''s daughters.

    "What''s going on?" she asked, and then looking down, she saw an invitation in Hai Ying''s hand.

 Chapter 834: Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Calamity!

    After Feng Yao left, Yun Xiao prepared to face the tribtion. Once again, it was an Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Another extreme challenge awaited him. But having seeded before, his heart was steadier now.

    "Others, when breaking through to the Second Baptism Realm, at most use an Upper Defying Heaven grade Cmity Source," Yun Xiao mused.

    Yet, he had requested an Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source¡ªsomething only those in the Eighth Baptism Realm dared to use.

    To the Ice Lineage Diva, of course, such a request was fitting for someone of his status as a Boundless Immortal.

    If Yun Xiao couldn''t bury the heavens, how could he be called a Boundless Immortal?

    This precious Cmity Source was priceless. Yu Ji must have intended to use it herself. Yet, with just a single flying talisman from Yun Xiao, she sent it over immediately, showing her deep respect for him.

    <em>POP! </em>Yun Xiao gently opened the jade box, still carrying her fragrance.

    Insidey an ice-blue Cmity Source, shaped like an ice sword, exuding an intense, chilling yin energy.In an instant, the surrounding temperature plummeted, and even the Extreme Yin Star seemed to grow colder.

    "Deca-Yin Frost Fiend¡ªa cmity of extreme yin. Not quite suitable for me, but it''ll have to do," Yun Xiao mused.

    Such a high-grade Cmity Source was rare even in the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Time was pressing; he couldn''t afford to be choosy.

    After all, in a ce like the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, which produced cold and yin attribute celestial energy, most were of this type.

    "The power of the Three Lives Samsara Cmity is ethereal and solemn. If I integrate the Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Cmity, at the very least, my killing power in both swordsmanship and inscription magic will soar."

    In short, this was a Cmity Source meant for killing. Yun Xiao imagined it might make his temperament lean toward coldness in the short term, but as long as he grew stronger, appearances didn''t matter.

    He took a deep breath. Then, without a moment''s hesitation, he opened his mouth and swallowed the Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Cmity Source.

    The act was as smooth as taking a sip of wine. It was a disy of courage in facing the immortal path. The true self was the true self. At least in foundation, it was more ferocious than the body double or Blood Base.

    Almost instantly after swallowing the Cmity Source, an ice-blue white mist surged over Yun Xiao''s body, billowing fiercely.

    Like a gust of icy wind sweeping through, Yun Xiao instantly transformed into an ice statue. Even his hair and Corona froze solid. His body lost all signs of life, bing nothing more than a block of ice.

    If the War Princess were here to witness this, she might have been scared to death.

    This revealed the terrifying potency of an Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source.

    It seemed quiet on the outside, but inside Yun Xiao''s body, a storm of annihtion was raging.

    The Grand Assembly Arena was abuzz with excitement, drums and gongs echoing to the heavens, while this small ice cave plunged into eternal silence.

    No one knew how much time had passed.

    Suddenly, crackling sounds broke the stillness.

    The human-shaped ice sculpture fractured, lines of fissures spreading across its surface.

    From one of the cracks, Yun Xiao''s eyes appeared, surging with frosty sword light. Then, a buzz echoed as the ice encasing his head shattered into dust, exploding outward. ??

    His face emerged as if reborn after a tribtion¡ªcold, heroic, exuding an extraordinary spirit.

    His ck hair whipped upward, each strand entwined with ice-blue threads of snow, dazzling to behold.

    These ice-blue threads were the tribtion power of the Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Cmity!

    A force that seemed beautiful but was, in truth, of utmost yin and coldness, born solely for destruction.

    Even Yun Xiao''s eyes were veiled with this icy mist. He lifted his gaze slightly, looking ahead. Wherever his eyes fell, frost and ice condensed.

    Then, he stood up. The ice covering his body shatteredpletely. His near-perfect physique reappeared, blue frost swirling around him.

    The twin cmities in his Dantian and Corona surged like a tidal wave of blue.

    The powers of the Three Lives Samsara Cmity and Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Cmity had merged into one. Not only had they transformed Yun Xiao''s tribtion power, but they had also altered the Primordial Sphere.

    "Though I''m only at the Second Baptism Realm, the quality and destructiveness of my tribtion power are unmatched even in the Third Baptism Realm."

    Truthfully, even this was an understatement! Yun Xiao possessed a Diva level quality of power. If not for being in the Second Baptism Realm, he could sweep across the Samsara Gxy, killing at will.

    For now, the 18 Ster Rivers of the Samsara Gxy were vast beyond measure.

    "Though I''ve only roamed the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm for a couple of days, it feels like I haven''t lifted a finger in centuries," Yun Xiao mused.

    Born for battle, his hands itched after his breakthrough. Letting Feng Yao handle everything up front wasn''t cutting it; he''d have to sweep across the realms himself to feel truly satisfied.

    The Grand Assembly Arena¡ªconquest and dominion¡ªwas his chance.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes shimmered with icy tribtion power, his face impassive. He listened to the cacophony of chatter andughter surrounding the Grand Assembly Arena, his desire for battle surging.

    This was the focal point of the entire Samsara Gxy.

    Back in the Celestial Court, Yun Xiao had heard conversations of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects from behind the Taiji Gate. Now, he was finally here at the hottest spot where tens of thousands of geniuses gathered.

    "Yun Xiao!"

    As his battle intent peaked, Feng Yao''s tall and graceful figure slipped into his amodations.

    "Ah..." She unexpectedly met Yun Xiao''s innately icy gaze and jolted. Ayer of frost formed over her chest, freezing her in ce.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes now carried the power of ice, proof he''d refined another Upper Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source.

    Feng Yao was ustomed to his peculiarities. So, she wasn''t too shocked. But freezing her chest with a nce¡ªwhat was that about?

    "Where are you looking?!" she eximed, both embarrassed and annoyed.

    "I''m only this tall, and I don''t make a habit of looking up at people," Yun Xiao replied matter-of-factly.

    "You''re impossible!" Feng Yao rolled her eyes and turned away to gather herself. But as soon as she did, her waist and hips froze over.

    "Didn''t you say you don''t make it a habit of looking up?" she said, biting her lip.

    "I didn''t look up."

    "You...!"

    Seeing her exasperation, Yun Xiao couldn''t help but smile. He couldn''t deny it¡ªteasing her was one of life''s great pleasures. He withdrew his icy gaze and asked, "Alright, did you need something?"

    Feeling her body return to normal, Feng Yao huffed softly. "It''s nothing major; it''s been taken care of."

    "Stop pretending¡ªyou definitely have something to say," Yun Xiao said.

    He knew her too well; if there was nothing, she wouldn''t be so hesitant.

    Feng Yao felt a warm glow in her heart at how well he understood her. And Yun Xiao hadn''t been using the Mortal Dust Devil Seed to peek into her thoughtstely, which made her feel respected.

    She sat down beside him, bending gracefully. "Just now, the daughters of the Sea Lineage Diva received an invitation."

    "Oh? And then?" Yun Xiao stood before her, staring at her enchanting face. As he spoke, he reached out and grabbed the pair of blood-red dragon horns atop her head. The horns were crystalline and delicate, pleasant to the touch.

    "Hey! Let go, let go!" Feng Yao eximed, her entire body flushing as if she''d drunk too much, red to the point of steaming.

    "Such a strong reaction?" Yun Xiao noted her difficulty in speaking, marveling at how exceptional she was. Having these dragon horns was one thing, but a tongue twice the length of a normal person''s? That was irresistible.

    "Who sent the invitation? What''s next?" Yun Xiao brought the conversation back on track.

    Feng Yao tried to steady her pounding heart; her voice still trembled. She didn''t dare meet his gaze. "It''s said to be from a force called the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Their Young Dragon Lord is celebrating his birthday today and is hosting a banquet on the Heavenly Deity Star Street, inviting our nine participants from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    "Southern Divine Dragon Realm? They''re the main rivals of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, aren''t they? The ones trying to seize the Harmony Divine Pce''s spot in the Heavenly Deity Alliance. I''ve heard they''re an extremely male-centric celestial sect, the opposite of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    Of course, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm couldn''t reproduce through the Divine Spring. Their world did have women, but the status of the women there was abysmally low, treated almost like livestock.

    "Yes, that''s them," Feng Yao replied.

    "So this so-called birthday banquet is obviously a setup against us," Yun Xiao said.

    "There''s no fear of them making a move. The Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects has rules. The Heavenly Deity Star Street is a ce where harming others is forbidden. Vitors will be disqualified from participating and might even face imprisonment," Feng Yao exined.

    "So, are the Sea Lineage Diva''s daughters going?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Feng Yao shook her head. "They''re not that bored. They consulted the Sea Lineage Diva, who said that trying to make connections now is meaningless for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. No matter how we present ourselves, we can''t change the world''s perception of us. So we don''t need to ept any invitations and should focus on preparing for the battles in the Grand Assembly Arena."

    "Oh? Then I missed a chance to stir up trouble with our opponents," Yun Xiaoughed.

    "Indeed!" Feng Yao blinked, then said softly, "But I''d like to give you that opportunity."

    "What do you mean?" Yun Xiao was puzzled.

    Feng Yao reached out, grasped his arm, and with a yful sparkle in her eyes, said, "I want to go shopping."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 835: Starry Street Market!

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao raised an eyebrow.

    Feng Yao was a breathtaking beauty, and when she yed the part of a coy young girl, he found himself at a loss.

    "Where do you want to go shopping?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Let''s head to the Heavenly Deity Star Street," Feng Yao said eagerly.

    "Isn''t that still going to the banquet?" Yun Xiao said, smiling wryly.

    "Who said so? The Heavenly Deity Star Street is huge, you know! It''s thergest marketce in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Hundreds of thousands of shops and buildings, built by all sorts of powers. They say you can buy any kind of celestial treasure there, as long as you have the money... And that Southern Divine Dragon''s banquet is just at a ce called the Sun Moon Star Tower," Feng Yao said, her eyes shining with anticipation.

    She couldn''t help herself; after all, she was still a girl at heart. Following Yun Xiao into this ultimate path of immortality by chance, she was far from being free of worldly desires.

    The dazzling array of goods was too tempting to resist.

    "Is this Heavenly Deity Star Street far from here?" Yun Xiao asked."Not far at all. It''s right next to the Grand Assembly Arena. That''s the most bustling ce now! There''s also the Million Starlight Pce nearby. They say thatter, hundreds of millions of Immortals will gather there to watch the battles!" Feng Yao said excitedly.

    The Category 1 world Yun Xiao and Feng Yao hade from was too secluded and closed off. ces like the Samsara Gxy and Heavenly Deity Star Street were truly novel and exciting to Feng Yao.

    "So, are we going or not? No one knows us there," Feng Yao pleaded.

    "Aren''t you quite brave? You can go on your own," Yun Xiao teased with a grin.

    "Bastard, juste with me! If I could''ve done it alone, I wouldn''t have asked you!" Feng Yao retorted, rolling her eyes.

    She had been coasting along all this time, only recently starting to put in effort. Where would she find the courage?

    "Come on, let''s go, please." She tugged at Yun Xiao''s sleeve, her eyes pleading.

    "If you promise me one thing, I''ll go," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    "What is it?" Feng Yao asked.

    "Ahem." Yun Xiao cleared his throat and whispered something into her ear.

    "...!" Feng Yao quickly covered her mouth, stumbling back several steps in shock. She stared at Yun Xiao, her face turning a deep shade of red. Shaking her head vigorously, she said, "No way, absolutely not! Y-you''re too much..." ??

    "If you don''t want to, then forget it," Yun Xiao said lightly.

    "Dirty scoundrel." She pouted, her heart in turmoil, flustered beyond words.

    Seeing her so crestfallen, Yun Xiao felt a pang of guilt. He said, "All right, let''s go. I was only teasing you."

    "Really? We''re going?" Feng Yao lit up, the disappointment in her face disappearing in a sh.

    After so long, how could she not know Yun Xiao''s heart by now. It was clear she''d been ying him this whole time, and he''d fallen hook, line, and sinker.

    Still, Yun Xiao kept his word and said generously, "Fine, we''ll go. Buy whatever you like today; it''s on me."

    "Do you actually have any money? They use Supreme Immortal Jades here, and prices run into thousands, even tens of thousands," Feng Yao asked skeptically.

    "Supreme Immortal Jades?" Yun Xiao checked and found he was indeed broke. "I don''t have any. Do you?"

    "No money, and you''re still asking me out on a date?" Feng Yao said, exasperated. She patted the Bag of Holding at her chest with a smug grin. "Lucky for us, the Snow Lineage Diva gave me 100,000 Supreme Immortal Jades!"

    "Well, darn." Yun Xiao regretted not asking the Snow Lineage Diva for some extra payment for his <em>services</em>. He''d missed the chance.

    "Today we''ll spend my money. Consider it a loan. And don''t ask for something so dirty again," Feng Yao snorted.

    "You know it''s bound to happen sometime," Yun Xiao said suddenly.

    Feng Yao bit her lip, her cheeks flushing. She knew he was telling the truth, but she wasn''t ready yet. So she changed the subject. "Come on, let''s go. The battles will start soon."

    Since they were heading out alone, Yun Xiao didn''t bother informing the three Divas. He had left flying talismans; if they needed him, they could use them.

    Besides, exining would be troublesome¡ªhe had three different identities in their eyes.

    "Shopping time!" Feng Yao was clearly delighted to be out on a solo trip.

    Her feelings for Yun Xiao weren''t just simple affection. She was like a little fox he''d raised, following and guarding him. Even though she had a maiden''s heart with its shyness and sensitivity, it didn''t change the fact that Yun Xiao had be the most important person in her life.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    And Yun Xiao''s recent teasing showed he liked and respected her, proceeding step by step, waiting for the day she''d ovee her inner hesitance.

    On the way to Heavenly Deity Star Street, it was evident she''d been pent up for a while. She transformed into a shadow of a blood dragon, racing ahead, urging Yun Xiao to chase her¡ªno trace of the earlier panic during her refusal.

    "This girl can really put on an act¡ªnot just pretending to be haughty and confident, but also ying innocent," Yun Xiao thought wryly, chasing after her.

    Yun Xiao was a man who followed his heart. In her presence, he felt happiness, and that was all that mattered.

    "Heavenly Deity Star Street, huh?" Yun Xiao muttered.

    Breaking through the celestial mist that shrouded the Grand Assembly Arena, Yun Xiao gazed outward and saw two immense worlds unfolding before him.

    They were simr to Naraka and the Six Paths of Reincarnation. But these Sourcecore Sanctuary worlds had been altered even more dramatically.

    To the left stood a white sanctuary world. Its swirling entrance had be a circr gate, and beyond that gate, lights zed brilliantly. Therey a colossal marketce resembling a giant cavern.

    This was the Heavenly Deity Star Street¡ªa celestial marketce forged from an entire world.

    One could only imagine its vastness.

    The other sanctuary world resembled a vast disk. Upon it stood an endless pce of gleaming tinum, and faintly, one could see the words <em>Million Starlight Pce</em>.

    This was where all cultivators of the Samsara Gxy gathered to watch the battles of the Grand Assembly Arena and Ancestor Immortal Grotto through giant projections. It was said that within the Million Starlight Pce, one could see everything.

    For this reason, most non-participants and elders from various sects chose to watch the battles there.

    However, the Three Divas of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm seemed unwilling to attend such noisy and sycophantic gatherings. They disliked being the subject of gossip.

    "Grand Assembly Arena, Ancestor Immortal Grotto, Heavenly Deity Star Street, Million Starlight Pce... battles, trading, spectating¡­ all are here," Yun Xiao mused.

    With all these elements, it was hard for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects not to be lively.

    Moreover, the Heavenly Deity Ster River had no barriers to entry. So, it bustled even on ordinary days. It was said to be one of thergest hubs for trading celestial resources in the Samsara Gxy.

    Order was maintained by members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, and for hundreds of thousands of years, there had been no mishaps.

    "So lively..." Yun Xiao murmured.

    As he stepped through the grand gate of the Heavenly Deity Star Street and looked ahead, he saw a splendid starry avenue stretching before him. Around it stood all sorts of marvelous buildings, floating in the void like dreams made real.

    Some buildings were shaped like towers, others like cauldrons, and some were simply spheres.

    In this starry marketce, there was no ground beneath their feet. It was a three-dimensional bazaar; besides the wondrous celestial shops floating around, there was only the open expanse of the starry sky through which they could wander at will.

    "So beautiful, such a magnificent ce," Feng Yao said. She bathed in the radiant light, her eyes full of wonder.

    "Thousands of pces and countless sights aren''t as grand as the breadth of your own heart," Yun Xiao said beside her.

    "What are you talking about!" She rolled her eyes at him but couldn''t hide the joy in her heart.

    "Come on, Lil Yun, keep up." Feng Yao let herself go, like a bird freed from its cage, flying toward Heavenly Deity Star Street.

    By rights, Yun Xiao, being more of a mortal, should have been overwhelmed by the splendor of this starry celestial marketce. Yet his heart remained calm, without the bewilderment of a country bumpkin entering the city.

    Perhaps it was because he possessed the vision of a Creator Immortal. Looking upon the bustling immortal path again, he held a transcendent calm.

    Just as he had said, the thousands of pces ahead were not as captivating as the lively and lovely figure of the beauty before him.

    "Hurry up!

    "Lil Yun, how about this celestial silk dress?

    "Annoying. It won''t fit; it''s more suitable for your little pet.

    "This one looks nice!"

    Feng Yao floated among the nebe, drifting past one celestial shop after another. The dazzling array of goods made her eyes sparkle. She felt that even 100,000 Supreme Immortal Jades weren''t enough to buy much. So, she looked a lot but hardly bought anything.

    Yun Xiao followed her patiently, for a long, long time.

    She suddenly stopped beneath a towering building shaped like an overflowing pot, rich with fragrant aromas.

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao paused.

    It was a liquor store. The aroma of Category 3 celestial wines was extraordinary, immediately catching his attention. His inner alcoholic was itching for a drink!

    "Hey." Feng Yao suddenly took his arm and said, "You like to drink. Let me buy you some wine."

 Chapter 836: Dragon Devil Clan!

    "Wine?" Yun Xiao paused for a moment.

    After all this wandering without buying a thing, Feng Yao was actually searching for a wine shop for him. Underneath that haughty and bullish exterior, she was actually quite thoughtful, knowing Yun Xiao couldn''t do without fine wine.

    Every new ce carried its own customs, and the taste of celestial wines varied in different worlds.

    The wines of the Heavenly Deity Star Street, sourced from the myriad celestial realms of the Samsara Gxy, were anything but ordinary.

    The wine-pot-shaped building before them was ten timesrger than the Nine Thunders Divine Ark. Enhanced by various celestial formations, it shimmered with colorful lights¡ªa disy of grandeur.

    With such an imposing storefront, how could the wine be anything less than exceptional?

    Through the celestial formations and thick walls, Yun Xiao''s nose caught the rich aromas of thousands of intoxicating brews, each rivaling the supreme brew that the Ice Lineage Diva had presented him.

    Truth be told, his fingers were already itching to taste.

    "It''s just wine; it shouldn''t cost her much. Alright, I''ll give her a chance to show off." Thinking this, Yun Xiao chuckled softly and said, "Then I''ll happily ept your offer.""Alcoholic!" Feng Yao snorted, casting him a sidelong nce. She knew he couldn''t resist the allure of fine wine. He could resist beauties, but not a good drink.

    Even so, finding his interest made her genuinely happy.

    The two walked together toward the colossal liquid store.

    Yun Xiao was a man of unparalleled divine looks; Feng Yao was enchanting and beautiful, her figure unrivaled. With her holding his arm, the two moved intimately, naturally bing the focus wherever they went.

    This Heavenly Deity Star Street was a gathering ce of heroes, especially during the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. Anyone daring to unt themselves here surely had a formidable background. Only a fool would act out of line with their status.

    Most people observed Yun Xiao and Feng Yao from a distance, inquiring quietly but not daring to cause trouble. So, despite the bustling Heavenly Deity Star Street, their world of two remained peaceful.

    "Southern Divine Dragon Cer?"

    At the magnificent entrance of the liquor store, Feng Yao read the name on the signboard.

    The liquor store''s doorway was a massive golden dragon''s head. Its giant horns pierced the sky, long whiskers fluttered, and golden eyes like suns. With its mouth open, it gazed arrogantly in all directions, exuding overwhelming dominance.

    This dragon''s mouth was the entrance to the Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    "Why does that name sound familiar?" Feng Yao asked curiously.

    "Probably connected to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm''s mortal foe, the Southern Divine Dragon," Yun Xiao said calmly, his eyes fixed on the bustling Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    Through the dragon''s open maw, they could see inside. The ce teemed with people¡ªdrunken Immortalsughing and chatting, the scent of wine mingling with the stench.

    "Should we still go in?" Feng Yao asked, frowning slightly.

    "Sure, we''re just buying wine. Besides, we don''t have <em>Extreme Yin Celestial Realm </em>written on our faces, do we?" Yun Xiao shrugged.

    "True enough!"

    They bore little to mark them as from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Feng Yao''s spirits lifted again. The two of them, close as ever, joined the crowd entering through the golden dragon''s mouth.

    As they moved, Yun Xiao kept his eyes open.

    At the entrance stood a group of burly men in ck armor¡ªthe guards of the Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    The Heavenly Deity Star Street had strict security; shops didn''t need heavy protection. The door guards mainly served to wee guests.

    Yun Xiao focused on their appearance.

    These ck-armored giants stood eight feet tall, some even nine¡ªlike small mountains. Next to them, Feng Yao seemed almost petite.

    Their height and build were like devils; Feng Yao''s father and nsmen were much the same.

    And they had a distinctive feature.

    Each of them had a ck dragon horn on their head¡ªthick andrge, ending in sharp points. Unlike Feng Yao''s blood-colored, gem-like horn, theirs looked more like a masculine weapon.

    No doubt, the hardness of these horns rivaled the ws of demons, forged with great power to withstand attacks from celestial treasures and Sword Souls.

    Their ck armor was adorned with dragon patterns, especially on the chest, where a mighty, cold, domineering dragon face was depicted. The divine dragon seemed lifelike, its eyes ring fiercely at all who approached, creating a sense of oppression for the guests.

    These features were just like devils¡ªmuch like Yin Devils such as Feng Yao. However, their source of power wasn''t devil blood but the celestial power in their Dantian. This meant they were essentially human.

    Though their vitality was abundant and their flesh strong, this was forged by the cultivation methods of Martial Immortals, not the natural strength of devils.

    Of course, they did have some devil bloodline, which made their vitality strong. Each possessed talent in the Martial Dao, and their physical presence exerted a strong oppressive force.

    As Yun Xiao observed them, he overheard conversations nearby.

    Two Immortalpanions seemed to be visiting the Heavenly Deity Ster River for the first time.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Brother Dugu, do you see those fellows over there? They''re the Dragon Devil n of the Southern Divine Dragon. Though they''re human, they carry dragon devil blood. Each one has the talent of a Martial Immortal, with astonishing physical strength. They can wield Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and learn spirit cultivation methods¡ªtheir individualbat prowess is astounding," a white-robed Immortal said.

    "Their physical gifts are truly enviable," hispanion in green robes replied.

    "In recent years, the Southern Divine Dragon has risen swiftly, breaking into the top ten of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. It''s no wonder. Their status now is much higher than before!" the white-robed Immortal remarked.

    "Ah, but it''s not their status I envy," the green-robed Immortal said.

    "Oh? Then what is it?"

    ncing around to make sure no one was listening, the green-robed Immortal leaned in and whispered, "I''ve heard the Dragon Devil n is extraordinarily endowed¡ªfamously said to be hung like a donkey. And without the devil''s foul stench, they''re quite favored by thedies. Even those with average cultivation levels often receive invitations from Immortal women for dual cultivation, living quite the enjoyable life!"

    The white-robed Immortal blushed and coughed. "Don''t speak such nonsense! We cultivators, especially the celestial goddesses, are ethereal beings¡ªhow could they be swayed by such base desires?"

    "I''m just repeating what I''ve heard!" The green-robed Immortal nced at the physiques of the ck-armored giants and sighed. "But the saying about them might just be true."

    "Focus on cultivation, my friend. The heavens and earth are vast, but none is greater than the Dao. We on the Immortal path should dedicate ourselves to our practice," the white-robed Immortal advised.

    "Indeed!"

    "Besides, I''ve heard that the women of the Southern Divine Dragon have extremely low status, often treated like cattle and sheep, without any dignity. How could those celestial goddesses fancy such crude men?"

    As they chatted, they passed ahead of Yun Xiao and, weed by the ck-armored members of the Dragon Devil n, entered the Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    Behind them, Yun Xiao and Feng Yao approached the ck-armored giants. They were about to enter when suddenly, a dozen pairs of dark eyes fixed abruptly on Feng Yao!

    "Whoosh!

    Almost in unison, they thrust out their massive arms, blocking Yun Xiao and Feng Yao''s path.

    "What''s the meaning of this?" Feng Yao was startled by their sudden move.

    "Look over there!"

    One of the ck-armored giants cast a cold nce at her, pointing to a golden dragon fang above their heads.

    Yun Xiao and Feng Yao looked up.

    When they saw the words carved into the dragon tooth, one was speechless while the other seethed with anger.

    The inscription read¡ª<em>No women or dogs allowed inside!</em>

    Yun Xiao had just left a world where men were treated as immortal ves. Seeing this sign at the Southern Divine Dragon Cer gave him a surreal sense of deja-vu.

    Feng Yao was furious. Her good mood, eager to buy wine for Yun Xiao, was utterly spoiled.

    "Are you out of your minds?" she couldn''t help but snap.

    At her outburst, the faces of the dozen ck-armored giants grew stern and cold.

    Their skin was dark, their demeanor icy and fierce. Towering and burly, they swept disdainful gazes over Feng Yao. In their eyes, there was no trace of pity or appreciation¡ªonly the same contempt the celestial maidens of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm showed toward their ves.

    "Leave. Otherwise, we''ll report you to the Heavenly Deity Alliance and have you expelled from Heavenly Deity Star Street for causing trouble," a nine-foot-tall guard said coldly.

    From his words, it was clear that Heavenly Deity Star Street maintained strict order. Otherwise, with their brutish stance, they would have driven them off themselves.

    "Let''s go," Yun Xiao said.

    It was just about buying wine; not a big deal.

    Since there was an issue, they could simply go elsewhere.

    After all, the guards were just enforcing their own rules. In their establishment, they had the right to choose their patrons.

    "The Southern Divine Dragon dares to discriminate against women? What fools," Feng Yao muttered.

    Though she walked beside Yun Xiao, she was still fuming, cursing under her breath.

    "You didn''t seem toin back in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm," Yun Xiao remarked.

    Feng Yao pouted. "It''s only when it happens to you that you realize how disgusting discrimination is. So you were right."

    Putting oneself in another''s shoes truly brought the deepest understanding.

    On this point, Yun Xiao felt that neither side was justified. They were all human; there was no reason to divide high and low based on gender¡ªit made no sense.

    "Please, wait!"

    Yun Xiao hadn''t expected someone would try to stop them. He and Feng Yao turned back to see a man in a violet robe emerge from among the group of ck-armored giants.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 837: Supreme Yin Cauldron!

    The man in the violet robe stood tall and lean, towering over nine feet high.

    Beside him, Feng Yao seemed petite and charming.

    He bore a pair of violet dragon horns on his head, shimmering with phosphorescent light that matched the violet Corona above him, giving him an ethereal presence.

    Unlike the rough ck-armored guards, his features were handsome despite his burly frame, with a firm expression that was pleasing to the eye. His voice was deep and maic, alluring to the ear.

    His violet dragon robe glimmered with flowing light¡ªclearly an exceptional celestial garment.

    "I am Long Qinyang. May I ask your names?" the young man in the violet dragon robe asked warmly.

    "We''re just ordinary customers, buying wine and paying the bill. Names aren''t important," Yun Xiao replied.

    Long Qinyang smiled slightly. "What you say is true, my friend. Earlier, the reception boys of our Southern Divine Dragon Cer had poor attitudes and spoiled your enjoyment. On behalf of the Cer, I apologize to you both. If you still wish to buy wine, I will personally serve you as a token of apology."

    Each of these ck-armored guards were as robust as a bull. So, calling them reception boys was a bit far-fetched."Oh?" Yun Xiao grew curious. What was this fellow up to? Could it be that he had already discovered Yun Xiao was a participant from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm?

    Yun Xiao pointed at the inscriptions on the dragon fang. "You''ll personally escort us inside? And what about this?"

    Long Qinyang smiled again. He waved his hand, and a burst of violet smoke rose skyward, gathering into arge hand that wiped away the inscriptions. Then he said, "We open our doors to sell wine; how can we distinguish between guests? Our Southern Divine Dragon has issued a decree. From today onward, all undesirable practices on Heavenly Deity Star Street are to be abolished."

    This was getting interesting.

    Yun Xiao didn''t know this young man''s identity, but he probably couldn''t make such a big decision on his own. So, had he happened upon their reforms?

    "As an apology, I am willing to offer you both a 20% discount. What do you think?" Long Qinyang added, "You may have heard that the wines of our Southern Divine Dragon Cer are never discounted."

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao looked at him for a moment, then said, "Since you''re so sincere, it would be impolite to refuse."

    "You''re really going?" Feng Yao asked softly.

    "What is there to fear?" Yun Xiao replied.

    "True enough!"

    Since fighting was prohibited on Heavenly Deity Star Street, and the Southern Divine Dragon Cer was in the public eye, there was no need to worry about safety.

    "Please, both of you!"

    Seeing Yun Xiao''s decisiveness, a sunny smile appeared on Long Qinyang''s handsome face, giving off a strong sense of righteousness.

    Yun Xiao followed him into the Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    Inside, he discovered it wasrger than he''d imagined. Shelves overflowed with countless fine wines, each more dazzling than thest. Tens of thousands of guests mingled within, and just as many attendants bustled about. The air was thick with noise and chatter.

    "Is this your first time at our Southern Divine Dragon Cer?" Long Qinyang asked.

    Yun Xiao and Feng Yao nodded, and his enthusiasm grew. He began introducing Yun Xiao to the ce, first sharing the cer''s background, then detailing each kind of fine wine.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm, also known as the Wine Star, was a world belonging to the Dragon Devil n¡ªpassionate and fiery, with fierce customs. In such and, celestial wine had be the people''s greatest passion. It could excite and intoxicate, even advance one''s journey on the Immortal path and strengthen the body. It had nearly reced celestial pills, flourishing across the realm.

    These celestial wines were sought after throughout the Samsara Gxy.

    This very cer on Heavenly Deity Star Street was one of their most famed enterprises, raking in vast amounts of Supreme Immortal Jades every day.

    Yun Xiao listened to Long Qinyang''s introductions, inhaled the aromas, tasted the samples, and gained a new appreciation.

    The wines of the Southern Divine Dragon truly suited his pte¡ªprofound and full of character, masterpieces of the immortal way.

    However, during the tour, he began to see through Long Qinyang''s intentions. Amid his words, the man kept slipping in questions, probing into Yun Xiao and Feng Yao''s backgrounds.

    "Just as expected," Yun Xiao thought. "He''s having people investigate us while keeping us here, probing from all angles... It means there''s something about us he wants."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In that case, lingering would only bring trouble. The reason he had entertained the exchange was because he craved the wines here. The more he listened, the more he desired.

    Over 1,000 signature wines, each with its own rich aroma and unique character. Just the scent was irresistible!

    "Which one do you like? Let''s buy it and go," Feng Yao said, feeling uneasy.

    "I..." Yun Xiao rubbed his forehead, embarrassed. "To be honest, I''m a bit overwhelmed by the choices."

    "Like having too many women in your harem and getting dazzled?" Feng Yao teased.

    She knew he was greedy, but she hadn''t expected his avarice to extend to wine. It was precisely because of his greed that he was overwhelmed.

    "Hey, did you see the prices? These wines are expensive. With my 100,000 Supreme Immortal Jades, we can''t buy many jugs. I haven''t even bought anything for myself yet!" Feng Yao huffed.

    "Got it, got it." Yun Xiao took a deep breath, trying to make up his mind.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao reached the heart of the Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    Suddenly, a scent hit him, making his blood surge.

    "What is that...!" Yun Xiao looked up sharply. At the very top of the cer, a golden dragon coiled.

    It wasn''t a real dragon¡ªit was a wine vessel shaped like one. Using a dragon to hold wine¡ªthat was sheer audacity. But to Yun Xiao, that didn''t matter.

    What mattered was the wine inside that golden dragon was so fragrant, so rich. It was like a peerless beauty unmatched in the world, the focal point of all attention¡ªthe Emperor of Wines in the Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    Just a hint of its aroma stirred every nerve in his body, making him obsessed, his blood racing, driving him mad.

    To exaggerate, even if Chen Xi stood before him without a thread, she couldn''t have excited him as much as this.

    Yun Xiao saw it. From the dragon''s fang of that golden vessel, a single drop of golden wine oozed.

    It was this drop that sent its aroma sweeping across the entire hall, overshadowing all other scents.

    "Heavenly Dragon''s Saliva!"

    Many Immortal wine lovers looked upward like pilgrims, their faces devout, and eyes fixed on that single drop of golden liquid in the sky.

    At that moment, a figure in a violet dragon robe flew upward, took out a thumb-sized golden sk, and gently caught the drop.

    As he capped the tiny sk, that blood-stirring aroma slowly dissipated.

    Yet within the cer, the wine enthusiasts remained restless.

    "Heavenly Dragon''s Saliva!"

    "This aroma makes it truly deserve to be the number one divine wine in the Samsara Gxy!"

    "Apart from the Southern Divine Dragon itself, only this cer on Heavenly Deity Star Street sells it, right?"

    "One drop costs 1,000,000 Supreme Immortal Jades; who can afford that?"

    Listening to their murmurs, Yun Xiao felt as though a goddess was slipping away from him.

    "Hey, how much does this wine cost?" Feng Yao asked Long Qinyang, who had just descended.

    Long Qinyang, smiling faintly, put away the thumb-sized sk and said calmly, "One drop is 1,000,000 Supreme Immortal Jades. One sk is 100,000,000."

    "Good grief, why don''t you just go rob people?" Seeing how much Yun Xiao liked it, Feng Yao had wanted to grit her teeth and buy him a few sks. But with the little money she had, she couldn''t even afford a single drop.

    Long Qinyang smiled. "Miss, the name of our Heavenly Dragon''s Saliva is renowned throughout the Samsara Gxy. One drop for 1,000,000; the price is clearly marked. All wine lovers know this. How could it be considered robbery?"

    Feng Yao was left speechless. Looking at the thumb-sized sk in his hand, she realized just how poor she truly was.

    "Heavenly Dragon''s Saliva?" Yun Xiao etched the name into his memory.

    To him, fine wines didn''te with ranks or prices; beautiful memories made a wine truly exquisite.

    There were only two vors he could never forget¡­

    The first was the lingering mellowness of the Daughter''s Red tied to Zhao Xuanran and her osmanthus tree.

    The second was the fiery bite of the Tiger Rod Wine, which suited Divine Dawn and her thunder and me hamaxes perfectly.

    However, this Heavenly Dragon''s Saliva¡­ it was simply too enticing, too tempting, and too far out of reach.

    So, Yun Xiao turned to Feng Yao and said, "Let''s go. We''lle back another time."

    Feng Yao bit her lip. "Even if we can''t afford Heavenly Dragon''s Saliva, let''s buy something else. It''d be a shame to leave empty-handed. I''ll give you all my 100,000 Supreme Immortal Jades."

    Yun Xiao shook his head with a smile. "You don''t understand. After smelling that fine wine, everything else here is just dregs."

    "Like seeing a beautiful girl, and then all others seem in?" Feng Yao asked, a sudden understanding lighting her eyes.

    "Exactly. With you here, others fade into the background," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Humph!" Feng Yao thought he was teasing her. Even so, her heart felt warm. But she still remembered the Heavenly Dragon''s Saliva and whispered softly, "Don''t worry. I promised to buy you wine. It won''t be long before I get it for you."

    Seeing her earnest and serious expression, Yun Xiao was momentarily taken aback. A touch of emotion stirred within him, and a knowing smile slowly spread across his face.

    "Take care, both of you."

    Seeing that Yun Xiao and Feng Yao had decided to leave, Long Qinyang smiled courteously and waved to them at the door.

    Once their figures vanished, he waved his hand. Several burly men in ck melted into the shadows, stealthily following Yun Xiao and Feng Yao.

    "You still haven''t uncovered their backgrounds?" Long Qinyang asked a figure lurking in the darkness.

    "Not yet," the shadow replied coldly. "But people who haven''t even heard of the Heavenly Dragon''s Saliva, and who act so unrefined¡ªthey''re likely from the lower ranks. He''s hiding his identity, probably just to protect himself."

    "Follow them closely. Don''t lose them. I''m going to see the Young Dragon Lord," Long Qinyang said.

    "The Young Dragon Lord is hosting a birthday banquet, forging ties with the top ten geniuses of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. Why disturb him over such a trivial matter?" the shadow asked.

    "Trivial?"

    The nine-foot-tall Long Qinyang sneered, his gaze burning as he looked in the direction Feng Yao had gone. Clenching his teeth, he said, "That devil woman bears blood dragon horns with nine rings. She is the Supreme Yin Cauldron from our n''s legends! She may be useless to others, but to our Dragon Devil n, she''s a perfect match. Our n can use her as a cauldron to mass-produce heaven-defying geniuses!"

    "Supreme Yin Cauldron?" The shadow shuddered. In a trembling voice, he said, "If that''s true, even those old ancestors would personally take action, offering their blood essence into her Yin Cauldron! Let her conceive prodigies to strengthen our Southern Divine Dragon Devil n!"

 Chapter 838: Dragon Devil Transformation!

    A towering figure, as massive as a small mountain, strode across a region of zing starlight.

    This was the famous Field of Shattered Starlight, born from celestial energy escaping the sanctuary world of Heavenly Deity Star Street. The Field of Shattered Starlight symbolized the street''s prosperity.

    Passing through this shimmering expanse, a magnificent tower came into view ahead. Gilded and resplendent, the tower zed with dazzling starlight¡ªthe most imposing structure around.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    It was none other than the renowned Sun-Moon Star Tower of Heavenly Deity Star Street.

    At this moment, the nine-foot figure in violet dragon robes heading toward the tower was Long Qinyang of the Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    He had a high-bridged nose and a pair of majestic violet dragon horns. His eyes zed, a Corona shimmered above him, and his presence wasmanding. At a nce, it was clear he was a celestial prodigy of noble birth from the Samsara Gxy.

    Yet, after glimpsing the Supreme Yin Cauldron¡ªeven if only a suspicion¡ªeven he felt his heart race.

    A peerless merity right before him.

    "The Supreme Yin Cauldron," Long Qinyang murmured. He recalled the allure of the female Yin Devil, his eyes gradually gleaming with fiery light. "Once we get our hands on you¡­ aside from endless existence, don''t expect a moment''s rest for the rest of your life!"He hadn''t imagined that the legendary Supreme Yin Cauldron truly existed. There were female Yin Devils, but one with nine-ring dragon horns¡­ there was only this one.

    "That country bumpkin has no idea of the treasure beside him," Long Qinyang sneered.

    He had spent years in the Southern Divine Dragon Cer, hosting people from all walks of life across the Samsara Gxy. No matter how someone tried to bluff about their background, he could see through them after a few words.

    He was still chuckling when a figure in white robes suddenly appeared in the starry mist ahead of him.

    "Who goes there?!" Long Qinyang halted abruptly, his narrow eyes cold and stern, fixing on the figure ahead.

    The white-d figure said nothing, continuing to approach him. Emerging from the Field of Shattered Starlight, his form became clear. It was the peerlessly handsome Yun Xiao!

    "It''s you?" Long Qinyang eximed. He had been mocking this insignificant person, never expecting to encounter him here.

    He was about tough when Yun Xiao spoke up. "Sir Long, have you lost something?"

    "Oh? And what might that be?" Long Qinyang raised an eyebrow.

    "I found it. It''s all here."

    With a wave of his hand, Yun Xiao summoned a string of objects from the starry mist behind him. They floated before Long Qinyang.

    Long Qinyang''s smile froze. His face turned to stone, eyes shing with cold fury.

    It was a string of severed heads. Each one bore sharp, chilling dragon horns. Every face was twisted in terror and agony.

    Without a doubt, they were all from the Dragon Devil n, his most trusted attendants.

    This also included the two who had tried to block Feng Yao from entering the Southern Divine Dragon Cer. The head at the very front belonged to the shadow he''d sent to trail Yun Xiao.

    "You..." Long Qinyang''s nine-foot frame trembled. He red at Yun Xiao, eyes narrow and cold. "You dare spill blood on Heavenly Deity Star Street?"

    He was shocked not by the deed, but by the audacity. These attendants were gifted but not powerful elders. Killing them wasn''t hard.

    "I told you, I found them. There''s no evidence. So, don''t make wild usations," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "It''s not up to you to decide about evidence¡ªthe Heavenly Deity Alliance will judge! Come with me and confess your crimes!" Long Qinyang shouted furiously. He fixed his gaze on Yun Xiao. His towering form loomed like a giant beast ready to pounce.

    The sheer pressure of his flesh and aura was immense. The might of the Dragon Devil n was undeniable. He was clearly an elite among elites.

    <em>BOOM! </em>He surged forward, his body causing sonic booms. His hand,rger than a man''s foot, shot toward Yun Xiao''s face.

    From his palm erupted the four tribtion powers¡ªwind, fire, thunder, and ice. Dragon roars echoed, revealing Long Qinyang as a Samsara Disciple in the Fourth Baptism Realm.

    Samsara Disciples were the highest rank of disciples in the Samsara Gxy, far surpassing those Divine Bud, Taiji, and Ster Sea Disciples. Inbat prowess, they matched Colonels like the ck Brute Bear Lin Daiyuan of the Destion Corps.

    With this single move, Long Qingyang proved himself leagues above talents like Yan Feixue.

    He aimed to crush Yun Xiao''s head with one hand¡ªa lion swatting at a monkey.

    Yun Xiao watched the enormous palm approaching, his face calm from start to finish.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The palm unleashed a storm that could shake the world.

    Fighting was forbidden on Heavenly Deity Star Street, but here, amid the dazzling Field of Shattered Starlight, it was hard to be noticed.

    Besides, Yun Xiao had alreadymitted murder. Why should he stick to the rules?

    "Regtions are chains for the weak and lowly," Long Qinyang thought. His eyes were cold, like a violet dragon swooping down to kill.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The shockwave from his palm stirred up a tempest of wind, fire, thunder, and ice. His hand was about to strike Yun Xiao''s forehead.

    But then, a sharp sound came from behind Long Qinyang. A sudden sense of mortal danger made him instinctively feel the killing intent.

    In that split second, his expression changed. He quickly withdrew his hand, whipping up a violet storm, and spun around to face behind him.

    He saw it. It was a ck arrow! In that sh, he used his violet dragon horn to block.

    <em>RIP! </em>The ck arrow, engulfed in demonic mes, struck his horn, sparking blinding shes. Its power diminished little, instantly slicing past Long Qinyang''s right ear.

    "AGHH!" His right ear was torn off, the skin on his handsome right cheek scraped away, ripping off more than half, revealing ghastly white bone.

    The violent force spun his entire body.

    "Damn it!" He endured the searing pain in his face and ear. Rage surged like a volcano, his eyes turning blood-red.

    "You!" Long Qinyang red back coldly. Amidst the dazzling starry mist, a fiery young devil girl appeared. She wore tight crimson leather armor, held a fierce bow burning with demonic mes, and in her other hand grasped a six-foot-long dark crimson, blood-stained arrow.

    A beautiful woman stood proudly in the air, bow and arrow in hand. Her posture was wless. Under the shimmering misty starlight, the scene struck like a thunderbolt. Beside her stood the youth in white, pure and ethereal. They were a stark contrast¡ªthe carefree transcendence of Yun Xiao and the worldly allure of Feng Yao.

    Yun Xiao''s appearance whispered of an otherworldly quest for immortality, free from desire. Feng Yao, however, embodied the depths of the mortal realm, filled with emotions, desires, love and hate, passion and sorrow.

    But who would guess that the true hearts of this celestial youth and devilish woman were actually the opposite?

    Long Qinyang didn''t understand them at all. Wiping the blood from his right cheek, he gazed at Feng Yao with a vicious re. In a deep voice, he said, "You held back before, but once you acted, it was astounding. I never expected your archery to be so fierce¡ªtruly impressive!"

    Clearly, that arrow made him think Feng Yao was the mastermind between the two.

    "Well then! May I ask, youngdy, when has our Southern Divine Dragon''s Dragon Devil n ever offended you both, that you''d kill on Heavenly Deity Star Street and now harm me?" Long Qinyang suppressed his fury, asking with a touch of feigned grievance.

    The fact that he could hold back his anger showed he was stillposed. Realizing these two harbored secrets, he chose to wait for reinforcements.

    As long as someone arrived, given the situation, he could invoke the ironws of the Heavenly Deity Alliance to have Feng Yao imprisoned for life.

    Facing Long Qinyang''s questioning, Feng Yao slowly drew her bow. From her lofty stance, she gazed coldly and arrogantly at the handsome nine-foot-tall man. Her red lips parted slightly, uttering the words, "Supreme Yin Cauldron."

    Those words revealed that Yun Xiao and Feng Yao had not only killed the trackers but also confronted him with their purpose.

    Hearing this, Long Qinyang knew they hade to eliminate him. There was no turning back now. But was he afraid? He, a proud Samsara Disciple of the Southern Divine Dragon? Afraid? Not in the slightest!

    They were still at the base of the Sun-Moon Star Tower. If the battle stirred up enoughmotion, a throng of his friends and nsmen would arrive in no time.

    Looking at Yun Xiao and Feng Yao, they seemed to be taking a desperate gamble.

    "Fine, I''ll y with you, my little furnace!"

    Hearing this and catching the way Long Qinyang looked at her¡ªas if she were a mere ything¡ªFeng Yao couldn''t help but feel nauseated.

    Though she found Yun Xiao greedy, irritable, and overbearing¡ªsometimes quite annoyingpared to Long Qinyang, who was a gentleman in public but vile behind closed doors, Yun Xiao was practically a saint.

    At least he was genuine, never pretending in front of Feng Yao.

    "This one''s mine!" she huffed at Yun Xiao, biting her lip.

    Yun Xiao was about to draw his sword, but seeing her so upset, he couldn''t help but smile wryly. He sheathed his sword and waved a hand. "Alright, make it quick. This ce is dangerous; we shouldn''t linger. If we get surrounded and they see us killing on Heavenly Deity Star Street, even the Three Divas won''t have a reason to protect us."

    "I know!" Feng Yao nodded, her fiery red eyes locking onto Long Qinyang.

    Hearing their exchange, Long Qinyang''s anger surged again. He sneered, "A woman like you was born to whimper and beg before men, and you dare to act tough?"

    He had never feared these two from the start. Since they wanted a quick fight, he would take his time ying with them. He''d kill the man and seize the woman.

    The Dragon Devil n was naturally violent and arrogant; such temperament ran deep in the n, and Long Qinyang was no exception.

    Just then, he summoned a Sword Soul five feet long and as wide as a man''s hand.

    This Sword Soul was nearly as big as Yun Xiao''s six-foot Sovereign Sword, but it was actually Long Qinyang''s Palm Sword.

    This was why the Dragon Devil n was so envied!

    Gifted with strong Martial Immortal talents, Long Qinyang was also a Sword Immortal. He cultivated both swordsmanship and martial arts.

    This was where the Dragon Devil n surpassed some devils. They possessed the physical might of devils and the sharp edge of human Sword Immortals.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The five-foot Sword Soul was entirely violet, its de covered with dragon scales. These scales were like barbs; once they pierced flesh, they''d tear out chunks of it.

    Looking closely, one would find these dragon scales wereposed of Sword Prisons, each filled with denseyers of Sword Aura.

    There were 400 dragon scales on this Sword Soul, indicating it contained 400 Sword Prisons.

    This was the highest number of Sword Prisons that Yun Xiao had encountered among the young geniuses of the Samsara Gxy so far.

    Holding this Dragon Scale Sword Soul, Long Qinyang''s eyes zed with fire. He had be a domineering, zing, and ferocious sword devil.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 840: Young Dragon Lord and Shen Nanyin

    "Come on, let''s go." Yun Xiao nced over and saw two giant beast-like figuresing over from the Field of Shattered Starlight.

    He and Feng Yao shared a smile. Slipping away to the left and right, they exited the brilliance and merged into the bustling crowds of Heavenly Deity Star Street, vanishing with a casual wave.

    It was simr to a wandering Immortal, vanquishing evil every step with wine in hand, hiding both glory and name.

    No sooner had Yun Xiao and Feng Yao disappeared than two figures suddenly emerged from the blinding radiance.

    They were human shapes, yet they felt towering and immense, particrly the figure on the left.

    He was a man d in a ck and gold dragon robe, the ck fabric embroidered with golden dragons. His imperial presence dominated the entire scene.

    He stood a full ten feet tall¡ªa height equal to a one-story building. An ordinary man''s head would only reach his waist, appearing as a child in his eyes.

    Most striking was his mane of pure golden curls, crowned by a pair of golden dragon horns that soared upward, seeming to prop up the sky.

    His nose was straight as a de, and his cold, steely eyes bore down with immense pressure.Compared to him, Long Qinyang¡ªthough extraordinary among the ck dragon youths¡ªwas but a foot soldier, his aura crushed to dust under this man''s divine might.

    Beside the golden dragon man stood a woman of the Dragon Devil n.

    Amazingly, she was nine feet tall, surpassing even the Great Mother in height. She too had golden hair and dragon horns. Her tinum celestial armor entuated her fiery figure; her breastte pushed up high, nearly bursting.

    Though towering, her face was delicate and beautiful, radiating a noble and sacred aura¡ªa goddess riding into battle.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Her vital energy surged like a giant beast standing upright.

    The pair¡ªone ten feet, the other nine¡ªmade a striking couple. The man was burly, and the woman was all curves. Yet their expressions were icy cold as they arrived, especially the golden ten-foot dragon man.

    He cast his cold gaze around, sniffed the air, and in a deep voice that rumbled like a dragon, said, "I smell a burnt corpse. Long Qinyang has been killed."

    "Young Dragon Lord, who would daremit murder so brazenly on Heavenly Deity Star Street?" The nine-foot golden goddess'' voice didn''t match her heroic bearing¡ªit was soft and sweet, like a little girl''s, a stark contrast.

    She lowered her head when she spoke to him, her voice tinged with submission and fear, a hint of insecurity.

    The young man known as the Young Dragon Lord gave a cold smile. In his hand appeared aplex flying talisman, capable of projecting clear images. Within its light, Yun Xiao and the War Princess were clearly seen strolling through the Southern Divine Dragon Cer.

    "Killing to silence witnesses¡­ they''re anxious and flustered." The Young Dragon Lord smirked, his eyes gazing into the distance like a hunter watching panicked prey flee. "I''m going to see Father. You return to the Sun-Moon Star Tower."

    Hearing this, the nine-foot-tall woman bit her lip and meekly said, "Young Dragon Lord, the genius disciples from the top ten of the Heavenly Deity Alliance are preparing to congratte you. Perhaps I should go find Father..."

    Before she could finish, a massive pnded fiercely on her face.

    <em>SMACK! </em>A crimson handprint appeared on her cheek¡ªthe one who struck her was none other than the Young Dragon Lord.

    He nced at her coldly and said, "Shen Nanyin, how many times have I told you? When I speak, you just wag your tail. Don''t offer so many opinions."

    "Yes... yes..." The golden-horned woman named Shen Nanyin was terrified, hastily covering her face as tears streamed down. Yet, she was clearly ustomed to such abuse. Wiping away her tears, she stopped crying, applied medicine to herself, and bowed before heading toward the Sun-Moon Star Tower.

    She hailed from a noble lineage, with pure blood and considerable talent, even the rightful wife of the Young Dragon Lord. But it was of no use; the Southern Divine Dragon Realm belonged to the male Dragon Devil n. Men held supreme status, and women, regardless of their background, were often treated as private possessions, subject to the whims and abuses of their husbands.

    Of course, other men couldn''t behave this way toward her¡ªthat was a taboo in the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Of course, that was unless the difference in status between two men was immense.

    "Supreme Yin Cauldron..." As Shen Nanyin departed, the Young Dragon Lord gazed at the image of the blood-horned devil girl in the flying talisman. His eyes shone like zing suns, consumed by greed, utterly unmasked and needing no concealment.

    Within the Dragon Devil n''s bloodliney an instinctive craving for such a Supreme Yin Cauldron. Like a famished beast encountering fresh meat, they could smell that maddening scent from afar.

    He had already caught the scent in the air. His eyes were bloodshot; even though she was no longer present, the aroma that stirred his very blood made his wicked desires rise. He red around, searching for her presence.

    "From tonight onward, every man in my Southern Divine Dragon Realm will go mad!" The Young Dragon Lordughed wildly, clutching the flying talisman, and vanished into the starlight.

    Even though the message had been sent to the elders, as the bearer of such news, he had to personally im credit and witness this moment that would drive the entire n insane.

    "Damn, I bet those old geezers with one foot in the grave will spring up to relive their glory days when they hear this good news!" The Young Dragon Lord was flushed all over, less like a dragon and more like an excited hyena, howling madly.

    Even though the scent had faded, he knew how powerful the Southern Divine Dragon Realm was. If their n was willing to give everything to hunt down a young Yin Devil girl, where on earth could she hide?

    First and foremost, they''d lock down the Heavenly Deity Ster Formation.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    "Disgusting. Truly disgusting. How can a n be so revolting?" Feng Yao muttered.

    She recalled the moment they had forced information out of that Dragon Devil nsman sent to shadow them. She was still fuming. Though nothing had happened yet, just the thought of being chased by a pack of rabid dogs trying to pin her down was sickening enough.

    "Maybe it''s destiny," Yun Xiao said. "Because of your special physique, you met me. And by sheer chance, you cultivated the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity, which awakened this aspect of your nature."

    "Stop analyzing! I don''t want to hear it," Feng Yao huffed.

    "Then what do you want, ma''am?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I want you to kill them all!" she growled through clenched teeth.

    "Ahem, heaven cherishes all life..."

    "Kill!"

    Seeing her flushed with anger, barely able to breathe, Yun Xiao could only hold his forehead. "Don''t worry. Those who covet my woman will never meet a good end."

    "Aren''t I just your maid? Have I been promoted?" Feng Yao suddenly lightened up, stealing a sly nce at him.

    "A maid is still a woman," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Humph." With his assurance, Feng Yao felt at ease. She knew this domineering guy would never abandon her.

    But she also understood that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªa force as formidable as the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªwouldn''t be easy to deal with.

    She frowned and asked, "We acted toote. Now this has probably spread to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. What should we do?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 842: Empyrean Mu and Great Dream Lord

    "Ancestral Land?" Feng Yao pouted at the mention of the words and nced at Yun Xiao beside her.

    She knew that the little white tiger had arrived at the Heavenly Deity Ster River ahead of them and had joined a sect called the Ancestral Land.

    At these words, Yun Xiao''s mind conjured the image of that snow-white girl, breathtaking in her beauty. A few days apart felt like three long years.

    "I wonder how she''s faring in that Ancestral Land," Yun Xiao thought. He wasn''t too worried about her safety; she carried her own fortune and means, and her temperament was far more mature than Feng Yao''s.

    Seeing the wistful look on his face, Feng Yao knew he was thinking of her again. A tinge of jealousy stirred within her, but she knew she couldn''t control him. She turned to Hai Qing and asked, "Sister, why does this celestial sect called the Ancestral Land want to ally with us?"

    Hai Qing replied, "Perhaps because they don''t get along with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. I''ve heard the Southern Divine Dragon Realm is close to the Ancestral Land, and there''s been much strife between them."

    "The Nine Yin Soul Sea is the same¡ªthey have disputes with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm too. But..." Hai Yu furrowed her delicate brows. "Even with those disputes, it''s unexpected they''d take the initiative to seek an alliance with our Harmony Divine Pce."

    "Yes, didn''t they say all members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance unanimously passed a resolution requiring us to make it into the top ten? Could it be that the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea didn''t agree?" Hai Ying bit her lip, looking displeased.

    "I don''t know. We''ll understand once we meet mother," Hai Qing said softly, urging the nine of them forward to where the three Divas awaited.The three Divas stood atop a snowy peak on the Extreme Yin Star.

    "I wonder if your little white tiger came to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects this time," Feng Yao whispered into Yun Xiao''s ear as they walked.

    "How would I know?" Yun Xiao replied.

    "Missing her terribly, aren''t you?" Feng Yao teased, pouting.

    "Mind your own business. What''s it to you, little maid?" Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Hmph." Feng Yao red at him, grumbling inwardly, "Just moments ago, he was boldly dering me as his woman and now, at the mere mention of the little white tiger, he treats me like a maid again!"

    Soon, the nine of them flew upward andnded atop the snowy peak.

    Yun Xiao gazed ahead. Wan Ji, Yu Ji, and Si Ji¡­ the three beautiful Immortal women stood amidst the swirling snow. Their profound cultivation and refined demeanor lent them an aura both majestic and untouchable, yet they also possessed the delicate beauty of youth.

    d in dark green, icy blue, and soft pink, their long, enchanting Divine Spring Tails were a sight to behold.

    But Yun Xiao''s gaze quickly shifted to the five figures opposite them.

    He didn''t see Divine Dawn among them and felt a slight pang of disappointment. But then he thought, even if Divine Dawn hade to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, the chances of her seeking an alliance with the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were slim.

    The five neers consisted of two elders and three youths.

    Naturally, the two elders hailed from Ancestral Land and the Nine Yin Soul Sea.

    The first elder wore white celestial robes. He had a long beard and the bearing of an Immortal¡ªhandsome and majestic. A pure white Corona glowed above his head, and his eyes shone brightly.

    Yun Xiao thought he resembled Heavenly Monarch Mu, who had once visited the Celestial Court. Perhaps he was Heavenly Monarch Mu''s elder brother or father.

    This clearly meant that this white-robed Immortal was from the Ancestral Land.

    In aura and celestial power, this man stood equal to the three Divas, suggesting his status might surpass even that of Heavenly Monarch Mu.

    The other elder was of simr rank.

    She was a woman d in ck robes, her entire figure enveloped in dark smoke, appearing eerie, cold, and mysterious.

    At first nce, Yun Xiao could tell she was a powerful Anima Immortal, even stronger than the Chaos Soul before it had battled with Heavenly Monarch Mu. Clearly, she was an elder from the Nine Yin Soul Sea.

    "Come here and pay your respects to Empyrean Mu and the Great Dream Lord," Diva Wan Ji of the Sea Lineage called to her daughters, her expression solemn.

    "Greetings, Empyrean Mu and Great Dream Lord!"

    Hai Qing and the others, along with Feng Yao, bowed to the two elders.

    Empyrean Mu was evidently higher in rank than Heavenly Monarch Mu, indicating they were from the same lineage.

    "You youngsters can get acquainted," Empyrean Mu said with a smile, ncing at the proud daughters of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Beside him stood two youths, one on each side. They resembled Empyrean Mu; unsurprisingly, they were his sons.

    Then, the two introduced themselves. One was named Mu Zixiao and the other Mu Zhilu.

    Mu Zixiao was heroic and spirited, dressed in violet celestial robes. Dignified and imposing, he was a noble son of the Immortal path. Mu Zhilu was younger, sunny and handsome, with a pure temperament that caught the eye.

    In both bearing and talent, they were undoubtedly the pinnacle of the Samsara Gxy¡ªtop-tier young men.

    However, Wan Ji''s daughters knew they were tainted by sin. So, they instinctively kept their distance, standing farther away and not approaching them.

    Aside from Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu, thest young man stood beside the Great Dream Lord. He likely hailed from the Nine Yin Soul Sea and was also an Anima Immortal.

    "This is the son of the Great Dream Lord, not yet 25 years old, with an unparalleled Anima Immortal talent in the Samsara Gxy," Wan Ji said with a hint of admiration, adding a personal introduction.

    The youth wore ck robes like his mother, enveloped in darkness, revealing only a pair of dark green eyes that seemed to pierce straight into one''s soul.

    Most participants in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects were over 35 years old. To dare attend at under the age of 25 marked him as a prodigy.

    His voice was ethereal, stirring the heartstrings. Softly, he introduced himself, "My name is Meng Huan. Greetings to the sisters of the Harmony Divine Pce."

    "Meng Huan... <em>Reverie¡­</em>"

    The name was peculiar, vast, and unfathomable. To choose such a name required great confidence.

    "Sword, Sigil, Martial, and Anima¡­ Between the four, Anima Immortals stand out as the strongest. Your son Meng Huan possesses the Nine Souls Talent. One day, he will be a Boundless Anima Immortal, enough to create a new chapter in history," Empyrean Mu said, stroking his long beard with a smile.

    The mysterious woman, the Great Dream Lord,ughed¡ªa raspy sound that might give children nightmares, yet she was genuinely amused.

    As sheughed, her eyes fell upon Feng Yao. In a deep voice, she said, "The Nine Souls Talent only grants a chance at bing a Boundless Immortal. But the 9-Star prodigy of the Harmony Divine Pce has a one hundred percent chance. Such unparalleled talent is unmatched. To earn a spot in the Grand Assembly at merely 18 years old shows that by 38 or 48, she will surely reign supreme over the entire Samsara Gxy."

    "Talent is but a stepping stone on the immortal path. What one ultimately achieves depends on individual fortune," Wan Ji replied modestly.

    Empyrean Mu shook his head. "As elders, our duty to guide is also crucial."

    "Indeed."

    From their tone, Yun Xiao could tell the rtions among the three parties were quite amicable¡ªnot as bleak as the three Divas initially described.

    "You young folks, go mingle," Empyrean Mu instructed.

    Hearing this, Hai Qing nced at her mother. After Wan Ji nodded slightly, Hai Qing took on the role of hostess, inviting Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and Meng Huan to get acquainted.

    "Hmm?" The Great Dream Lord''s eyes suddenly locked onto Yun Xiao. "This young man seems to have the talent of an Anima Immortal; his spirit is ethereal and harmonious."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Empyrean Mu had noticed Yun Xiao earlier. He tentatively asked, "Ladies, I heard the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm has nine representatives. Could it be that this young man is one of them?"

    Wan Ji smiled. "Are you curious why our Harmony Divine Pce has a male participant?"

    Empyrean Mu chuckled. "Indeed, we are a bit puzzled."

    Wan Ji looked at Yun Xiao. "Thisd is named Yun Xiao. He is... a celestial ve!"

    Upon hearing this, Yu Ji and Si Ji behind her wore peculiar expressions.

    Yu Ji thought Yun Xiao was a Boundless Immortal and was secretly delighted, while Si Ji genuinely believed he was a ve¡ªbut one with whom she shared a profound secret.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    However, Wan Ji''s daughters knew they were tainted by sin. So, they instinctively kept their distance, standing farther away and not approaching them.</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 848: A Thrilling Simulation of a Celestial War!

    "The Parent-Child gs are divided into the Parent g and Child gs," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen exined. Her voice was calm but carried weight. "There''s only one Parent g, while the Child gs are limitless, born from the Parent g. The Parent g represents the very heart of victory or defeat for any faction. It''s nted on the Star Nexus. Once the Parent g is conquered and pulled out, it means the faction has been defeated and conquered."

    Feng Yao nodded thoughtfully. "I see. So, the Parent g is the most important. If we defend it, we defend our homnd. If it''s taken, we''ve lost."

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen seemed pleased with her understanding. A faint smile yed on her lips. "That''s one way to understand it."

    "What about the Child gs?" Feng Yao asked, her eyes bright with curiosity.

    "The Child gs are tied to expanding our power," she replied. "For example, if our Extreme Yin Star goes to war, pulls out the Parent g of a Taiyi Sourcecore, and nts our Extreme Yin Child g into its Star Nexus, we conquer that Taiyi Sourcecore, adding it to our territory. Its Star Barrier bes the Extreme Yin Star Barrier. This is crucial because the final rankings in the Grand Assembly Arena are based on how many Taiyi Sourcecores each faction holds."

    "Oh!" Feng Yao eximed, excitement lighting up her face. "So if we nt our Extreme Yin Child gs all over the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena, making all 555 Taiyi Sourcecores raise the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, it''ll look like they''re all Extreme Yin Stars. Wouldn''t that guarantee us first ce?"

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen couldn''t help but chuckle. "Your logic is sound, but what you''re describing is a fantasy, not reality."

    Feng Yao giggled softly and let the matter rest.

    Yun Xiao spoke up, his tone serious. "nting Child gs in other Taiyi Sourcecores lets us im territory, But with only nine of us, how can we defend it? If we don''t guard them, others can easily pull out our Child gs and nt their own, can''t they?"He knew that in a real celestial war, attacking was one thing; holding what you took was another. If a faction had few people to begin with, what was the point of attacking?

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen nced at him coldly. "That brings me to the third factor. The Pledge of Allegiance.''"

    Yun Xiao nodded, understanding dawning on his face. He knew the rules would address his concern. The term Pledge of Allegiance sounded much like <em>surrender</em>. And so it was.

    "When a faction''s Parent g is taken and their Taiyi Sourcecore upied," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen continued, "they have two choices. First, they can withdraw from the Grand Assembly Arena. If they do, their territory count drops to zero, cing them at the bottom of the rankings¡ªa disgrace. The second choice is to surrender to the conqueror, hand over the Pledge of Allegiance they carry, and serve under them.

    "For instance, if you conquer the neighboring zing Yang Star and they choose to surrender, they''ll be a vassal to our Extreme Yin Star, continuing to guard territory for us."

    Yun Xiao found the rule intriguing. It was, in essence, about conquering and recruiting. Back when he was the Emperor of the Cloud Nation, wars in the mortal realm yed out much the same way. People were the most precious resource; capturing cities and gaining followers were how a faction grew stronger.

    But he still had questions. "If they surrender and be a Vassal Star under the Extreme Yin Star, bing part of our territory, what''s in it for them?"

    "Their Taiyi Sourcecore will count as a point for us on the Grand Assembly Arena rankings," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen exined, "but they''ll also retain their own points. If they continue to venture out and sessfully conquer other stars, they can keep expanding their own territory. Of course, the territories they expand will also add to Extreme Yin Star''s points."

    Yun Xiao nodded in understanding. So, after being conquered and handing over the Pledge of Allegiance, they became a vassal state.

    Vassal states could still make it onto the rankings! Moreover, no matter howrge the vassal state became, its points would count toward the suzerain''s total.

    "Suppose the Extreme Yin Star has conquered five Taiyi Sourcecores, including the zing Yang Star," Yun Xiao mused. "And the zing Yang Star itself has conquered three. With zing Yang Star as our vassal¡ª"

    "The Extreme Yin Star''s points on the rankings would be one, plus five, plus three, totaling nine." the Ice Valkyrie Queen said.

    "So, the zing Yang Star would have one plus three, totaling four! They''d also be on the rankings!" Feng Yao added, barely following along.

    "In short, even after losing and surrendering, only the results are annexed. It doesn''t affect a star''s ability to keep gaining points," Yun Xiao said.

    "Exactly." The Ice Queen Valkyrie Queen nodded.

    "Will the Vassal Stars unconditionally obey the Suzerain Star''smands?" Yun Xiao asked. "Is there a case of the vassals betraying the suzerain?"

    "We''re safe as long as they''ve handed over the Pledge of Allegiance," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen replied, "if they disobey orders or rebel, they''ll be disqualified."

    "Understood." Yun Xiao nodded.

    It was a simplified way of handling things. In real warfare, you could never be sure if people would betray you. But the Grand Assembly Arena was a simted game; simplifying made it convenient.

    Feng Yao seemed to grasp it too. "So if the Taiyi Sourcecores we''ve conquered get taken by others, do their gains go to the new owner?" she asked.

    "Yes," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen said. "Their Parent gs will automatically fly to the new master, including their Pledges of Allegiance."

    "Then if our Suzerain Star gets conquered by someone stronger," Yun Xiao pondered, "What happens to our Vassal Stars? Do they automatically be the vassals of our new master, or...?"

    "If a Suzerain Star is overthrown by outsiders," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen stated, "its Vassal Stars regain their Parent gs and Pledges of Allegiance, restoring their freedom and ceasing to rue points on the Grand Assembly Arena rankings for others."

    Feng Yao was astounded. "Then all the Vassal Stars must be hoping for their Suzerain Star to be toppled."

    "Indeed, that''s part of the game''s rules. But until that happens, they must fight for their Suzerain Star and follow orders, or they too will be eliminated," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen exined.

    "How interesting." Yun Xiao was beginning to look forward to it. This was a veritable celestial siege¡ªa grand melee!

    Who would dominate this middle kingdom and rule the heavens? Who could spread their Child gs across the Grand Assembly Arena and im the title of Emperor of the Starry Skies?n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Though their numbers were few andprised only of geniuses, it made the battle all the more intriguing¡ªa contest of elites and intellects.

    Moreover, ording to these rules, making alliances, forging friendships, and uniting forces could be exceedingly beneficial!

    This was where the Extreme Yin Star was at a disadvantage! But the main attraction was the sheer fun of it!

    Yun Xiao loved to y, and he was enamored with this game! It was absolutely brilliant, a feast of strategic and tactical genius!

    No wonder so many flocked to the Million Starlight Pce to watch the battles. It was said to offer the best overall view, allowing spectators to witness every move and maneuver of the factions!

    "But I haven''t finished yet," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen said, her tone growing somber despite the excitement around her. "Besides the Star Barriers, Star Eyes, Parent-Child gs, and Pledges of Allegiance, there are additional minor rules."

    "Please, continue," the listeners urged.

    "The Parent g is essentially a faction''s collective Pledge of Allegiance, but each individual also receives a Personal Pledge, a token representing themselves alone. This pertains to personal battles. If someone is privately defeated and neither wishes to die nor withdraw from the contest, they can opt to surrender their Personal Pledge to their adversary, bing a ndestine subordinate, or what''s termed a <em>Mole</em>, acting secretly at opportune moments," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen revealed.

    ¡°Huh?¡± Feng Yao sounded lost in a dense fog, but to Yun Xiao, it all seemed even more thrilling.

    ¡°Between the collective Pledge of Allegiance and an individual¡¯s, which takes precedence if there¡¯s a conflict?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°The individual¡¯s Personal Pledge is prioritized,¡± the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen exined. ¡°In the event of a conflict, epting an individual''s Personal Pledge without epting the collective one won''t lead to disqualification, but it will expose the Mole¡¯s identity.¡±

    ¡°Brilliant.¡± Yun Xiao could only marvel at the genius behind this game''s design. What fun! ¡°Are there more rules?¡±

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, sensing a considerable gap in intellect between Yun Xiao and Feng Yao, felt a tingling apprehension.

    Yun Xiao always grasped the essentials while Feng Yao seemed overwhelmed by them. It was a pity, really¡ªa blend of brilliance and bewilderment.

    ¡°There are other aspects, including the scoring method for the Grand Assembly Arena rankings and some specific scenarios like a tripartite suzerainty... but those aren''t for you to calcte. Your job is to conquer and defend; the rankings will handle themselves. This rule set has been in ce for years without significant issues,¡± the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen continued.

    She paused, then added, ¡°Onest crucial rule. Each faction must appoint a Star Liege, a leader.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the role of a Star Liege if the Parent g is fundamental?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°If a Star Liege is captured, dies in battle, or is eliminated, the power of all Star Barriers under theirmand drops by two-thirds. Once a Star Liege is appointed, the decision is irreversible,¡± the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen responded.

    ¡°Capture the Star Liege to defeat the enemy, intriguing,¡± Yun Xiao nodded in approval, then asked, ¡°So, the Star Liege is only rted to the strength of the Star Barriers?¡±

    ¡°Correct!¡±

    This meant the function of the Star Liege did not conflict with that of the Parent g!

    ¡°Is the Star Liege¡¯s identity public?¡± Yun Xiao followed up.

    ¡°It can be public or kept secret. If you choose to disclose it, then the power of all Star Barriers under that Star Liege is increased by a tenth,¡± the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen said.

    Yun Xiao was left thinking. This was truly thrilling!

    As for Feng Yao, she was thoroughly befuddled.

    ¡°So, who should our Star Liege be?¡± Hai Ying asked curiously.

    All eyes turned to Feng Yao.

    And Feng Yao looked to Yun Xiao¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 850: Three Stars Take the Vanguard!

    The Young Dragon Lord''s face was etched with sorrow and righteous fury, as though the misfortunes he spoke of were his own.

    "These fiends in dresses, how many have they harmed? How many families have they shattered? Just because they belong to the Heavenly Deity Alliance, they wreak havoc without fear. If this continues, what justice remains in the world?"

    The Young Dragon Lord''s roar shook the crowd, men and women alike, stirring their souls and kindling a fire in their veins, their eyes slowly threading with blood.

    Yet, amidst this fervor, a voice whispered with a hint of mockery, "What''s this stirring speech for? Your Southern Divine Dragon Realm has risen recently, recklessly massacring countless, far exceeding the ves of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    Such words, of course, were meant for the speaker alone. To voice them aloud would likely result in a swift, brutal end by the Young Dragon Lord, and the annihtion of his sect by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    Such was the way of the Samsara Gxy! The one with the biggest stick was right! There were no truly righteous celestial sects, only supremely powerful ones.

    So, no one would dare to stop the Southern Divine Dragon Realm as they stepped forward to wield justice once more.

    The Young Dragon Lord, veins bulging and face flushed with the heat of his emotions, fiercely downed a cup of wine.

    He poured another, lifting his cup with a burning voice, "However, the celestial order runs its course, and the heavens have mercy. The witches of the Harmony Divine Pce, with their multitude of sins, will finally meet their doom! "At this Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, to uphold the dignity of themon folk¡­ All the other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance have resolved to break free from the shadows of their ancient founders and confront the Harmony Divine Pce! And it will be us youth who''ll be wielding our weapons, to rescue themon folk, and strip the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm of their lofty status!"

    The Young Dragon Lord raised his cup high, his voice ringing out clear and hot, "So, what should we do next? You all know what''s at stake."

    "To save the celestial ves, to crush the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!"

    "For the celestial ves we fight!"

    As soon as the Young Dragon Lord''s voice faded, a fiery mor erupted, and young heroes raised their cups high.

    "To win this battle and rid our Heavenly Deity Ster River of wretched very forever! Let all men live upright lives, free from tragedy. Those with ambition, raise your cups!"

    At the Young Dragon Lord''s call, everyone in the Sun-Moon Star Tower, whether moved by the heat of the moment or not, stood and raised their sses in fervor.

    This was the power of a call that summoned 100 responses!

    It was almost a covenant sealed in blood.

    "For the celestial ves, drink!"

    "Drink!" The Young Dragon Lord downed his drink in one gulp and then smashed his cup to the ground.

    All around him, cups shattered on the floor in the name of justice, leaving the Sun-Moon Star Tower littered with shards of ss.

    From this moment, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm at the Grand Assembly Arena had gathered momentum.

    Though a bit crude and forced, this tactic was effective even on the celestial path.

    The way of Immortals and the Jianghu were not so different: the stronger you were, the more followers you had!

    And the Young Dragon Lord, seeing his ne to fruition, finally allowed a satisfied smile to spread across his face after his initial anger.

    "Of course, the exception is that celestial ve Feng Yao is keeping!!" the Young Dragon Lord suddenly dered with augh.

    "Hahaha!"

    Laughter filled the hall, mixed with scorn for the pair, disdain for the iplete life of Yun Xiao, jokes about Feng Yao''s fate as the Supreme Yin Cauldron, and fawning over the rise of a new overlord in the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    Indeed, this was the path of Immortals!

    As long as there were ranks, there would be struggles for power, opportunism, and social niceties.

    "Where are our friends from the zing Yang Sect, Wind Pool Valley, and Thunder Devil Sect?" The Young Dragon Lord suddenly turned solemn, naming three celestial sects.

    "Young Dragon Lord."

    From the crowd of prodigies, several figures stepped forward, approaching the Young Dragon Lord.

    The gathering was split into three factions, each radiant in splendor.

    Adorned in dazzling robes, their Coronas gleamed, and their presence was extraordinary, their celestial power surging.

    All of them appeared to be more powerful than Long Qingyang, who was a Fourth Baptism Realm Samsara Disciple!

    "Yang Yang, Liu Liu, at thest Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, where did your zing Yang Sect rank?" the Young Dragon Lord asked.

    Even though the Southern Divine Dragon Realm was not a part of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, his words seemed to carry the weight of one speaking from a higher station.

    Yang Yang, a youth with long crimson hair, had aplexion as red as moltenva, his eyes narrow like the mouth of a volcano, his entire demeanor fiery, almost scorching those who drew near.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    And Liu Liu, the orange-haired celestial beauty he was apanying, was also a direct descendant of the zing Yang Sect. She was shrouded in a gentle yet all-epassing orange me, evoking the feeling of an autumn fire. Her figure was willowy, the epitome of grace.

    "Young Dragon Lord,st time our zing Yang Sect ranked 20th, one ce above the Harmony Divine Pce, and this year, we have 9 Samsara Disciples and over 30 Taiji Disciples," Yang Yang said, his voice fiery.

    "Excellent! At least in terms of disciples, you surpass the Harmony Divine Pce," the Young Dragon Lord said with a smile.

    To receive such praise from the Young Dragon Lord was a testament to the exceptional nature of the zing Yang Sect.

    Among the 555 celestial sects of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, ranking in the top 20 in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was already considered top-tier under the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    And to many, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm seemed to have also fallen into this second tier.

    "Shen Shen, Qian Qian, how about Wind Pool Valley?" the Young Dragon Lord asked much more softly, turning his attention to the other two.

    They were a striking pair, one in a blue gown, the other in green, with breezes swirling around them as if ushering in the spring.

    These twin maidens were fresh and natural, pure and lovely, elicitingpassion.

    Unlike Liu Liu of the zing Yang Sect, who was married, these two drew more eyes.

    The renown of Shen Shen and Qian Qian spread far, stirring curiosity¡ªjust how deep or shallow was the Wind Pool Valley?

    "The Wind Pool Valley ranked 28thst time," the two replied in unison, as if their minds were linked.

    "Very good!" The Young Dragon Lord was pleased. His gaze swept over their delicate forms without lingering too long; after all, deep or shallow, to him, it was all shallow.

    His eyes then settled on thest group, a peculiar trio.

    This trio included two figures, each standing eight feet tall, nearly matching the ten-foot stature of the Young Dragon Lord. However, they had broader builds with thick legs and arms, making them likely heavier than him.

    Their skin was violet, resembling crocodile hide, with curved ws like scimitars on their palms, and wild violet hair. Their faces were fierce, with sharp fangs flipping over their lower lips.

    Clearly, these beings were not human, but devils¡ªmighty aberrations among their kind, known as Thunder Devils.

    "Lei Ting, how did the Thunder Devil Sect fare?" the Young Dragon Lord asked with a smile, his gaze resting on the middle one of the trio.

    This one in the center was undoubtedly a Thunder Devil too. Yet, he differed greatly from the other two.

    Firstly, he stood only as tall as Yun Xiao himself, reaching merely to the Young Dragon Lord''s midsection. Moreover, his violet, crocodile-like skin was much more delicate.

    And his face was almost human-like, even handsome. Especially standing next to the other two Thunder Devils, he appeared even more refined.

    Lei Ting had a voice like thunder and seemed capable of standing up to the Young Dragon Lord himself.

    "Last time? Around 30th," he said, his tone indifferent.

    The Young Dragon Lord chuckled at the response, "This time it''s different. With you, a purebred Thunder Devil among us, breaking into the top 20 shouldn''t be hard."

    Lei Ting merely smiled slightly, saying nothing more.

    However, from the way the other celestial talents around him looked at him, it was clear that this purebreed Thunder Devil was a formidable figure among the geniuses of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    The three great celestial sects the Young Dragon Lord had mentioned were indeed well-known powers within the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Their domains might not be as vast as the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, but they were each at least 500 timesrger than the Celestial Court.

    Their presence here also indicated that their rtions were amicable.

    Often, in the battles at the Grand Assembly Arena, such sects would not consume each other. As bigger fish, they prioritized smaller prey,peting over the speed of consumption rather than engaging in direct confrontations that might strain their rtionships.

    "So¡­" The Young Dragon Lord surveyed the three groups. "Coming up, your zing Yang Sect, Wind Pool Valley, and Thunder Devil Sect are the closest in strength to the Harmony Divine Pce among all the celestial sects. When the battlemences, you will reach the Extreme Yin Star first, trap them, and keep them in check. Can you do this?"

    Of course, this was more of amand than a request. There was no more to disobey.

    Yang Yang looked up and said, "Young Dragon Lord, if the three of us join forces, we can take them down and hand them over to you."

    "No need!" The Young Dragon Lord chuckled darkly. "The Southern Divine Dragon Realm will personally trample the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and don the crown of the Heavenly Deity Alliance!"

    "Understood." Shen Shen and Qian Qian naturally had no objections.

    Lei Ting and his two Thunder Devil brothers gave a faint smile, as if to agree.

    "So, make sure Feng Yao doesn''t leave the Extreme Yin Star, understand?" the Young Dragon Lord said with a grin.

    "Those who know, know," Yang Yang smiled cryptically.

    Indeed, who didn''t understand what the Young Dragon Lord was up to?

    "The Grand Assembly Arena is arranged by actual locations. The Southern Divine Dragon Star is too far from the Extreme Yin Star; just getting there takes time. So, before we arrive, it''s all on you!" the Young Dragon Lord said.

    "No problem!"

    The three groups had eyes zing with ambition.

    "Hahaha..." The Young Dragon Lordughed, then swept his gaze over everyone. Finally, he dered loudly, "What are you waiting for? Exchange the flying talismans, and then, to the battlefield!"

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The moment they had been waiting for finally arrived, and the crowd couldn''t help but cheer.

    Flying talismans were allowed on the battlefield! Exchanging talismans meant maintaining alliances¡ªconstant contact, support, mutual aid, division of spoils. Anyone who was part of today''s celebration was an ally!

    Once the talismans formed awork, they became a superpower, unmatched by anyone.

    Watching the Sun-Moon Star Tower erupt in its final revelry, the Young Dragon Lord looked towards the direction of the Grand Assembly Arena, like a starry sovereign ruling over the cosmos...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 839: Yun Xiao vs. the Dragon Devil Clan!

    Long Qingyan wasn''t done yet! As his vital energy surged, his body crackled with snapping sounds. A swath of violet dragon scales emerged, gradually enveloping himpletely.

    It was like adding anotheryer of defense beneath celestial battle armor.

    Those familiar with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm knew this was their famed Dragon Devil Transformation. It enhanced their n''s attack, speed, and defense¡ªaplete augmentation.

    Even Long Qinyang''s face and the back of his head were covered with these scales. His head transformed subtly, turning him into a draconian¡ªa dragon''s head on a man''s body.

    In this way, even the scar on his right cheek was concealed beneath the scales.

    "ROAR!" He let out a deep draconic growl. Clutching the five-foot Palm Sword in one hand, his entire body burst into violet mes. The Dragon Devil n truly had power to spare.

    Long Qinyang''s eyes held more disdain and amusement. He looked at Feng Yao with a condescending gaze, as if she was already defeated.

    "You really are the perfect ything," Long Qinyang chuckled, shrugging.

    "Screw you!" Feng Yao was quick to anger, and now her fury was explosive. Whom had she provoked? Did she have to be targeted just for walking down the street?It was Long Qinyang''s gaze¡ªthat domineering look of those from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm that seemed to dictate her fate¡ªthat enraged her beyond measure.

    "Go to hell!" Feng Yao''s rage swelled until it consumed her entire being.

    The Corona above her head suddenly transformed into a lifelike sanguine dragon, surging with three kinds of tribtion powers, proving her cultivation was inferior to that of Long Qinyang.

    "Heh." Seeing this, Long Qinyang grew more confident. His nine-foot frame shook; like a dragon-shaped behemoth, he swung his sword to strike her down.

    Feng Yao stared coldly at him and instantly drew her Heaven Devourer Bow fully. As the blood dragons coiled around her, she became utterly cold. Her anger was no longer felt. Only the ultimate killing intent of the Mortal Dust Devil remained.

    "Burning Snow North Wind," she uttered through crimson lips.

    Before the arrow was loosed, the Swallowing Heaven grade celestial technique from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was already unleashed.

    Burning Snow North Wind was the signature move of the Snow Lineage.

    Yet, in Feng Yao''s hands, inheriting the fine traditions of Yun Xiao, the move transformed noticeably.

    The <em>Burning Snow </em>became <em>Burning Blood</em>. Within the scope of her celestial technique, a blood-red storm erupted. Crimson snowkes swirled and condensed, instantly forming hundreds of blood-colored tornadoes.

    These tornadoes formed a scarlet prison, trapping Long Qinyang within. Each blood-red snowke was like a de, violently shing toward him.

    "She''s only in the Third Baptism Realm. How is she that strong already?" Long Qinyang muttered.

    He hadn''t expected this Yin Devil archer to be so skilled, possessing such talent in celestial techniques. He had always defeated opponents beyond his level, but today someone was trying to surpass him.

    Long Qinyang frowned but felt no fear. His violet Vorona zed, morphing into a spherical shield adorned with dragon patterns, enveloping himpletely.

    <em>BANG! BANG! BANG! </em>The crimson snowkes, numbering in the millions, bombarded the dragon-patterned shield in an instant, causing it to tremble violently.

    "Good attempt, but..." Long Qinyang gritted his teeth and growled, his face contorted with ferocity. Shielded by his Corona, he charged toward Feng Yao. "Once an archer is within reach, you''re as good as dead!"

    <em>BOOM! </em>With the five-foot Sword Soul in hand, he moved like a raging dragon, pressing through the blood-red storm toward Feng Yao with overwhelming force.

    Such a grandmotion would surely draw the attention of others. What did he have to fear? He stood invincible.

    "You can''t even break my Corona..." Just as Long Qinyang sneered, a sanguine dragon suddenly appeared before his eyes.

    <em>ROAR! </em>The crimson dragon opened its massive jaws, crashing into the dragon-patterned shield, tearing a gap in the Corona.

    "What?" Long Qinyang''s sneer vanished, reced by shock.

    He knew this was Feng Yao''s Corona, but he never imagined that a Corona with only three kinds of tribtion power could be so powerful.

    With a thunderous crash, the Sanguine Spirit Dragon Corona obliterated the dragon-patterned shield. The lingering force of the Burning Blood North Wind summoned a crimson tempest that mmed into Long Qinyang, hurling him backward.

    He swung his sword with blinding speed. His celestial armor and dragon scales worked in tandem, deflecting a torrent of blood-hued snowke des.

    Yet some of the deadly kes tore through his scales, slicing fine wounds into his flesh.

    "You''re courting death!" Long Qinyang roared.

    The pain was sharp but superficial, only fueling his fury. Surviving the onught, he sprang up, his blood-red eyes locked onto Feng Yao. With a savage howl, he charged at her once more.

    Feng Yao''s fully drawn Heaven Devourer Bow now brimmed with Mortal Dust Devil Blood¡ªblood infused with the power of three great cmities. It seemed to set the bow aze, unleashing its full might.

    "A bow and arrow? A worthless celestial weapon!" Long Qinyang scoffed.

    In his grasp, the Palm Sword abruptly transformed into a Flying Sword. His Flying Sword, resembling a small violet dragon, was a sizerger than Yun Xiao''s.

    To a Sword Immortal wielding a Flying Sword, primitive weapons like bows and arrows, which were incapable of being controlled at will, seemed rather crude.

    Long Qinyang''s Flying Sword whistled through the air, hurtling toward Feng Yao.

    "Is that so?" Feng Yao''s smile was icy. She released her arrow abruptly, swift and unhesitating.

    "A Flying Sword can change direction 1,000 times, but once your arrow leaves the string, it''s beyond control!" Long Qinyang remained violently confident, his conviction unshaken. He fixed his gaze on the Heaven Devourer Arrow streaking from the bow, ready to muster all his strength to dodge and deflect... before finally subduing her with his Flying Sword!

    However, a sudden searing pain tore through his body.

    "AGHH!" Long Qinyang cried out, ncing down. Tiny blood-red dragons crawled over the countless crimson sword wounds etched across his skin. The little dragons devoured his blood, forming a prison that locked him tight.

    This was the terrifying power of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    "What..!? AKH¡ª" Long Qinyang shuddered, trying to break free. But before he could do anything, a blood-colored arrow, entwined with Mortal Dust Devil Blood, violently pierced through his mouth and exited the back of his head.

    "Supreme Yin... Cauldron..." He clutched his mouth, eyes widening in bewildered despair. Staring at the cold-faced Feng Yao, the world before him began to blur and crumble.

    "Cauldron, my ass!" Feng Yao cursed, rolling her eyes as she stowed away the Heaven Devourer Bow.

    Opposite her, regardless of how towering his nine-foot frame had been or how vigorous his life force was, Long Qinyang had lost all vitality. He fell heavily, dying in confusion and hopelessness.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>His spirit tried to escape but was casually caught by Yun Xiao and held in his hand.

    "Let go, you worthless scum!" Long Qinyang''s spirit was utterly panicked. He hadn''t expected this young man to be an Anima Immortal, capable of seizing his unmanifested spirit.

    "Me, worthless?" Yun Xiao was bemused.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Who else? Hiding behind a woman and still trying to act tough?" Long Qinyang had lost allposure; despite his usual arrogance, his voice now quavered.

    "Look," Yun Xiao said, holding Long Qinyang''s spirit as if it were a small chick.

    Then Long Qinyang saw Feng Yao in high spirits. She rummaged through his corpse and pulled out a little thumb-sized sk. Skipping happily over to Yun Xiao, she eximed excitedly, "Here! This is the Heavenly Dragon Saliva I promised you. I kept my word, didn''t I?"

    "That''s all? Far from enough," Yun Xiao said with a smile as he epted the small sk.

    "You''re so greedy!" Feng Yao yfully pped his chest, her face flushed with shyness.

    Her radiant beauty was a stark contrast to her earlier cold demeanor, which only tore at Long Qinyang''s heart even more.

    "See that? Supreme Yin Cauldron or whatever¡­ she''s my precious little treasure," Yun Xiao said to Long Qinyang with a grin.

    "Who are you talking to? Haven''t you sent him off yet?" Feng Yao realized, blushing slightly.

    Since the spirit hadn''t manifested and she wasn''t an Anima Immortal, she couldn''t see it clearly.

    Hearing this, Long Qinyangpletely broke down. He finally understood that their rtionship wasn''t Yun Xiao hiding behind her strength; instead, this terrifyingly powerful Supreme Yin Cauldron was actually by his side.

    "Who... what are you?" Long Qinyang roared in despair.

    He couldn''t fathom what was special about this young man. Wasn''t he just a country bumpkin entering the city? Where did he get the audacity to kill his pursuers and then take down a high-ranking disciple like himself?

    Yun Xiao didn''t reply but crouched down instead.

    Right before Long Qinyang''s spirit, he stripped the corpse of all valuables. Then, he had Feng Yao refine Long Qinyang''s blood. Finally, Yun Xiao swallowed the Seed of Creation and absorbed his sword bone. Now, the Heaven Burial Sword Soul sported 330 Sword Prisons!

    Throughout the entire process, Long Qinyang watched, his spirit trembling, his mind utterly shattered.

    "Consider yourself lucky; if my two corpse demon maids, Youyou and Susu, were here, you wouldn''t even have your flesh left," Yun Xiao said.

    He then used the Heaven Burial Sword Soul to incinerate Long Qinyang''s corpsepletely.

    "Nonono¡­ NO!." Long Qinyang''s spirit screamed helplessly, his eyes nearly bursting. Consumed by hatred, he roared madly, "You''re dead! And that woman¡ªher fate is to be utterly ruined by millions of Dragon Devil n members! Your end will be 10,000 times worse than mine!"

    "Oh, is that so?" Yun Xiao had intended to send him off, but hearing this, he chuckled. "Then I''ll keep you around and see whether you seed, or whether I y millions of your kind until your race is extinct."

    "Hahaha..." Long Qinyangughed maniacally, mocking and sneering. What kind of delusional dream is this? Did he really dare? Hisughter shook his spirit. Finally, with a sinister voice, he said, "Enough, I won''t toy with you anymore. Do you know why your ambush tonight failed?"

    "Go ahead, tell me," Yun Xiao replied.

    Long Qinyang smirked darkly. "I don''t like leaving loose ends. Even though I came to inform him personally, before that, I already sent your images to the Young Dragon Lord. Hahaha..."

    As his words fell, sounds ofmotion came from the direction of the Sun-Moon Star Tower. Clearly, people were approaching.

 Chapter 841: Forming Alliances!

    "Whether we killed Long Qinyang tonight or not, word would have still spread," Yun Xiao said. "At the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, you''ll have to show yourself. Once you do, nothing stays hidden. And truth be told, given your identity as a representative from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm will want to see you destroyed anyway."

    "Then why''d we risk everything to chase down Long Qinyang?" Feng Yao asked, puzzled.

    "Isn''t it obvious? A man avenges a beauty''s honor," Yun Xiao replied. "I''m helping you vent your anger first."

    She was pleased at his words but soon eyed him skeptically. "Isn''t it really for that drop of Heavenly Dragon Saliva?"

    "Ahem, how could that be?" Yun Xiao chuckled awkwardly, his true intentions exposed.

    She had only been suspicious, but now, seeing his expression and knowing him well, she could tell the truth from pretense.

    For a moment, she felt a bit exasperated. "So it''s true¡ªall men are no good, especially the handsome ones," she sighed.

    "Oh, spare me!" Yun Xiao said. He couldn''t be bothered to pretend. Pressing a hand on her head, he said sternly, "Don''t take advantage and then act coy. Isn''t soaring through the skies and diving beneath the earth with me thrilling enough?"

    "Alright, alright!" Feng Yao conceded. She wasn''t ungrateful; she was just teasing. Deep down, she remembered how good he was to her."As for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, don''t worry," Yun Xiao said.

    He held the small golden sk, opened the lid, and took a gentle sniff. For a moment, a blissful expression spread across his face. He seemed to float, almost ready to ascend to the heavens.

    "Even if it''s just for this Heavenly Dragon Saliva, I''ll take them down!" Yun Xiao dered with lingering passion.

    "Well, well," Feng Yao clicked her tongue, eyeing the little sk. "So my Supreme Yin Cauldron stirs up less trouble than a sk of dragon wine? Is this wine really that amazing? I don''t see what''s so special."

    "It''s not about the wine," Yun Xiao said, closing the sk and giving it a gentle shake. With a sly smile, he looked at her and said softly, "It''s about who you''re with when you savor it. If a beauty shares the moment with tender affection, the wine bes unforgettable for nine lifetimes."

    Hearing this, Feng Yao was momentarily stunned. Then her cheeks flushed as she raised her hand to yfully swat him. "Where did you learn such sweet talk?" she asked, both shy and annoyed.

    "Hey, watch it!" Yun Xiao nearly dropped the sk as he dodged her swing. Grabbing her hand, he scolded, "Are you crazy? If you spill this priceless drop of wine, I''ll twist your intestines into ten knots!"

    "The heck¡­?!" Feng Yao gawked at him, speechless. Then, she pped her forehead and shook her head.

    "All that talk about how the wine depends on who you''re with¡ªit''s all lies! In the end, he''s nothing but a hopeless drunkard!" She fumed, twisting her waist as she stomped off toward the Extreme Yin Star, her steps quick and indignant.

    "I see you''re growing quite fond of that Mortal Dust Devil," Blue Star suddenly remarked, clicking his tongue.

    "This wine is truly exceptional," Yun Xiao said, gripping the Heavenly Dragon Saliva.

    "In truth, the mortal dust stirs the seven emotions and six desires even more. She makes you yearn for more," Blue Star said with a meaningful tone.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "She gave me this drop of wine. I won''t drink it yet¡ªI''ll keep it safe," Yun Xiao replied, putting away the small sk. He then dashed after that graceful figure. ?

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Before long, Yun Xiao and Feng Yao returned together to the Extreme Yin Star. They moved swiftly and safely.

    Still, Yun Xiao reckoned that in their current situation, even if they wanted to make an escape through the Heavenly Divine Ster Formation, it would still be toote.

    He had inquired and now understood the effects of the Supreme Yin Cauldron. He could imagine how furious the Southern Divine Dragon Realm would be.

    "Feng Yao!"

    As soon as they returned to the Extreme Yin Star, at the ce where they were staying, Wan Ji''s seven daughters were gathered, seemingly waiting for them.

    "Sisters!" Feng Yao called out. Seeing them, she put aside the troubles of the day''s outing and went up to greet them warmly. Though she hadn''t known them for long, they were kindred spirits and got along well.

    Wan Ji''s daughters were all well-mannered and graceful.

    Yun Xiao had be acquainted with them too.

    Among them, the youngest was Hai Ying, with short hair and a round face¡ªadorably lively.

    And the eldest was a woman whose temperament was very simr to Wan Ji''s, named Hai Qing¡ªa gentle and patient elder sister with a delightful disposition.

    Hai Yu, Hai Xin, and Hai Mo stood beside Hai Qing¡ªall sisters with dark green hair. They were Martial Immortals. Years of training had given them graceful figures, their long legs strong and shapely.

    They looked like a set of septuplets, and when they gathered, they were a sight to behold.

    The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was famous for its beauties. Many were eagerly awaiting their appearance.

    Hai Qing, Wan Ji''s eldest daughter on this journey, called out to Feng Yao.

    "Why weren''t you here?" she asked.

    "Well..." Feng Yao hesitated, at a loss for words.

    "You slipped off to Heavenly Deity Star Street, didn''t you?" Hai Qing shook her head. "You''re being reckless. With your current identity, if someone recognizes you¡ªeven though fighting is forbidden there¡ªyou could still be targeted for assassination. It''s dangerous."

    "I understand. I won''t sneak off again," Feng Yao replied meekly. She''d gone once, bought nothing, and stirred up trouble. She certainly didn''t want to return.

    "Alright then. In that case, I won''t tell mother about your wandering this time," Hai Qing said.

    "Thank you, Sister Hai Qing!" Feng Yao''s face lit up.

    "But don''t go again. If something happens, we''d be heartbroken," another sister, Hai Mo, added.

    "Don''t worry. A gentleman''s word is his bond," Feng Yao said, patting her chest.

    The seven sisters allughed.

    "Feng Yao, you''re no gentleman, so it doesn''t count," Hai Ying teased.

    Feng Yao pointed at Yun Xiao. "He''s a gentleman. Let him make the promise."

    Hai Qing shook her head, nced at Yun Xiao, and said, "He''s not a gentleman either."

    "Right!" Feng Yao had forgotten. Remembering, she bit her lip and red at Yun Xiao. "You''re just Lil Yun!"

    Yun Xiao ignored her smug expression.

    "By the way, sisters, why were you looking for me?" Feng Yao decided to ignore him and joined the circle of Wan Ji''s daughters.

    "The Grand Assembly Arenapetition is about to begin," Hai Qing said. "We need to discuss how to defend our star together. We n to make you the core and focus on defense in the early stages, so we''d like to practice tactics with you."

    "Let''s start now! You are Martial Immortals; you can hold the front with the power of the vast sea. I''m an archer¡ªI''ll pick off enemies from behind. Ha! ying foes!" Feng Yaoughed.

    The seven sisters exchanged nces and smiled helplessly.

    Though devils possessed stronger flesh and blood, and while Martial Immortals tread the path of defying fate, they still couldn''t match devils in closebat. Yet here was this peerless Immortal talent, utterly passionate about archery!

    Of course, they felt it was their unshakable duty to protect Feng Yao.

    So they earnestly began to study battle tactics.

    As their camaraderie deepened, they whispered among themselves.

    "Yao Yao," Hai Ying whispered, gently touching the armor over Feng Yao''s chest. "With such a... prominence here, isn''t it troublesome to use a bow and arrow? Even being t, the recoil already hurts me."

    Feng Yao blushed and could only say, "Skill prevails, skill prevails."

    "You''re truly remarkable," Hai Ying said innocently. "Making up for natural disadvantages through sheer effort."

    The sisters all gazed at Feng Yao with sympathy, as if she had endured great hardship.

    There was no helping it; they were ustomed to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and never saw things from a man''s perspective. In this regard, Feng Yao was at a natural disadvantage, too burdened!

    Yun Xiao could only turn away to stifle hisughter. They were no more than a group of innocent girls¡­

    Thinking that they might be coveted, scrutinized, or even fall on the battlefield, he felt a twinge of unease.

    He knew as well that throughout the Grand Assembly Arena, as the time of battle drew near¡­ undercurrents were already surging!

    Just then, Hai Qing suddenly received a flying talisman. She stood up solemnly. "Mother says two celestial sects havee to form an alliance with us and wants us to join her."

    "Which two celestial sects?" Feng Yao asked.

    "They have quite the reputation," Hai Qing replied. "Like us, they are members of the Heavenly Deity Alliances. One is called the Ancestral Land, the other, Nine Yin Soul Sea."

 Chapter 843: No Eternal Friends or Enemies, Only Eternal Interests

    "A celestial ve?" Empyrean Mu and the Great Dream Lord seemed surprised.

    "Yes, it''s like stumbling upon a treasure. Who would''ve thought that a ve, whose fate is as insignificant as dust, would harbor the potential of a Heavenly Monarch? By chance, the Heavenly Deity Alliance granted us an extra spot this time. So, we brought this ve along to broaden his horizons," Wan Ji said with a smile,ying the groundwork for Yun Xiao''s identity.

    "A ve entering the fray¡­ truly unexpected," Empyrean Mu nodded. "However, it doesply with the rules."

    "Indeed," the Great Dream Lord agreed.

    They exchanged nces, each seeing deeper meanings in the other''s eyes.

    As they discussed Yun Xiao, the young people hadn''t gone far. So as they walked, three curious gazes fell upon him.

    Finally, they all subconsciously nced at the ce where Yun Xiao''s <em>root of sin</em> had been purified.

    As men, they felt a chill, perhaps even a touch of sympathy. But soon, their attention drifted elsewhere.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    This group of young geniuses¡ªmale, female, and a ve. Naturally, the ve was overlooked.Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu seemed particrly interested in Wan Ji''s seven daughters. They approached them, chatting casually, behaving appropriately and politely, leaving a good impression on these sisters who had never interacted with men before.

    "Hai Qing, is it true that in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm there are no men, only these ves?" the youthful Mu Zhilu asked curiously, ncing at Yun Xiao.

    Hai Qing felt a bit awkward, nodded, and said, "That''s indeed the case, but the ves do make their contributions."

    "That''s true. After being free from desires, perhaps one can focus entirely on the Dao. It''s a shortcut to immortality," Mu Zhilu joked.

    He knew that the disciples of Harmony Divine Pce looked down on ves, so he said this to get closer to them. But he hadn''t expected that Hai Qing and the others were grateful to Yun Xiao.

    "Then why don''t you swing the knife yourself and castrate yourself? You could take this shortcut too," Yun Xiao suddenly said.

    His unexpected words immediately plunged the group''s atmosphere into an icy chill.

    Mu Zhilu was stunned for a moment, then whispered to Hai Qing, "Is this ve a bit..."

    Hai Qing felt a flicker of displeasure. "Young Master Mu, regardless, he is part of our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and ourrade in battle."

    "Understood!" Mu Zhilu seemed quite well-mannered. Realizing his misstep, he smiled at once. "I was presumptuous. I apologize, Sister Hai Qing."

    Mu Zixiao also spoke up for his brother. "My little brother doesn''t know about the customs of your realm. Please grant him a chance to make amends."

    Their attitudes were gracious, but their apologies were directed entirely at Hai Qing and her sisters. Yun Xiao, the one who had been slighted, received not even a word. ??

    "My father came to discuss an alliance," Mu Zhilu continued, steering the conversation. "In the uing battle at the Grand Assembly Arena, we''ll be allies. Our Ancestral Star and Nine Yin Star aren''t far from the Extreme Yin Star. We can stand back to back and support each other..."

    Hai Qing and her sisters nced toward their mother. Seeing her engaged in harmonious talk with Empyrean Mu and the Great Dream Lord, they joined in, nning with the three gifted youths. Yet, mindful of their realm''s taboos, they kept a respectful distance.

    Yun Xiao and Feng Yao, feeling rather bored and not inclined to join, sat together on a nearby rock.

    "Feng Yao."

    A ck-robed youth named Meng Huan had been watching her for some time.

    While Mu Zixiao and the others conversed, he approached her and asked, "Why not join the discussion?"

    "I''ll just listen to my sisters," Feng Yao replied coolly.

    "Very well." Meng Huan nced at her. In his eyes, Feng Yao and Yun Xiao sat side by side, so close that it blurred any distinction of rank. His green eyes suddenly locked onto Yun Xiao, and a subtle tremor shook his gaze.

    At that moment, a chilling soul force invaded Yun Xiao. It was strong indeed.

    Without a word, Meng Huan was sending a tant, unmistakable warning. He wanted Yun Xiao to move aside so he could sit next to Feng Yao.

    Only Yun Xiao, sensing the intimidation, knew he was being threatened. To Feng Yao and the others, Meng Huan appeared to be a polite young man.

    For now, it was a warning, but it could soon be a deadly threat.

    In Yun Xiao''s eyes, Meng Huan transformed into a towering green demon, ghastly emerald eyes fixed on him, as if threatening Yun Xiao not to defy him.

    It was clear that Meng Huan was confident in his status and talent¡ªenough to believe he could easily crush a ve.

    He was an Anima Immortal, capable of all this without betraying the slightest emotion.

    But then, Yun Xiao suddenly smiled. He acted as if he''d noticed nothing, a subtle curve forming at the corner of his mouth.

    Then, under Meng Huan''s watchful gaze, he quietly extended a hand toward Feng Yao.

    With one swift motion, he reached into her embrace.

    "Ah!" Feng Yao''s cheeks flushed a deep crimson, her heart pounding. She never imagined Yun Xiao would be so bold,unching a sudden move in front of so many people, leaving her utterly stunned.

    By the time she regained her senses, Yun Xiao had already withdrawn his hand. He brought it to his nose, took a sniff, and smiled at Meng Huan. "What a lovely scent."

    "You... you..." Feng Yao was both embarrassed and angry. She wanted to strangle him but didn''t dare; instead, like a flustered girl, she pounded Yun Xiao''s shoulder twice.

    Of course, she wasn''t the most shocked.

    The ck-robed youth before them, who had witnessed this unbelievable scene, stared with wide green eyes, as if frozen in ce. Even the soul force within him spiraled into chaos.

    Yun Xiao''s five fingers were like daggers piercing into his mind.

    This was a ve, and beside him was a peerless prodigy with the talent of a Boundless Immortal!

    It was as if a toad had devoured swan meat right before his eyes!

    "You..." Meng Huan''s throat burned with fury.

    "Run along now, little brat," Feng Yao said. Though annoyed with Yun Xiao, she guessed that this youth had provoked him first. Naturally, she didn''t show Meng Huan any kindness and waved him away.

    "Fine!" Meng Huan realized he''d been humiliated. He couldn''t make sense of any of it.

    Even if he told others what he''d just witnessed, perhaps no one would believe him. That was the most ironic part.

    At that moment, Hai Qing heard a bit ofmotion. She looked over with concern and asked, "What''s going on?"

    Feng Yao chuckled softly. "Oh, it''s nothing. That Meng Huan told a joke. It was quite amusing."

    Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu noticed that Meng Huan and Feng Yao seemed to be getting along and couldn''t help feeling a touch of envy.

    It was clear that among the beauties of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, Feng Yao was the brightest jewel in the crown. They hadn''t dared to approach her, but now it seemed Meng Huan had gotten ahead of them.

    "Well, it''s not that easy. The taboos of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm can''t be ovee," they thought. With that, they rxed a bit.

    But what puzzled them was that when Meng Huan returned to their side, his expression seemed dark and brooding.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    "What are you doing? You''re so bad!" Feng Yao was still blushing. There was no helping it; her heart raced, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood surging through her, painting her red all over.

    "There are too many blind fools around. Naturally, I need to dere my sovereignty in time," Yun Xiao said.

    "Do you have to dere it like that?!" Feng Yao was truly exasperated. The guy had asked him to give up his seat, and he''d gone and squeezed her¡ªwouldn''t that drive people mad?

    "They came to form an alliance. Aren''t you pushing them away?" Feng Yao asked helplessly.

    "Alliance, my foot. They''re just here to stake their im, ready to take advantage when the Harmony Divine Pce copses," Yun Xiao said with a chuckle.

    "What do you mean?" Feng Yao asked.

    "You''ll see soon enough. If you want to beat a dog that''s down, you have to be the first to the well," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "In your mind, everyone is so treacherous," Feng Yao pouted.

    "You''re just too naive and innocent," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Hmph." They whispered sweetly among themselves, while over with Hai Qing, genuine discussions unfolded with the three young prodigies.

    The elders watched the harmonious mingling of the youths and felt content.

    "It''s about time. I''ll take the children back to the Ancestral Star to make preparations," Empyrean Mu said, cupping his hands toward the three Divas.

    The Great Dream Lord was ready to depart as well. Noticing the gloom clouding her son''s eyes, she sensed something weighed on his mind and was eager to ask him about it.

    The three Divas personally saw them off.

    "That''s fantastic, Mother. With the help of these two great celestial sects, things should get much easier for us, right?" Hai Ying said, holding Wan Ji''s hand.

    Wan Ji rolled her eyes. "Easier? Hardly! When the battle begins, you''ll need to spend at least forty percent of your energy guarding against them stabbing you in the back."

    Her daughters were stunned into silence.

    "Mother, didn''t you say that the Ancestral Land, Nine Yin Soul Sea, and the Southern Divine Dragon Realm all have disputes? Isn''t the enemy of our enemy our friend?" Hai Qing asked helplessly.

    "In the realm of Immortals, there are no eternal friends or enemies¡ªonly eternal interests," the Ice Lineage Diva Yu Ji said coldly.

    "Then all those detailed ns I discussed with them..." Hai Qing couldn''t help feeling frustrated.

    Was all that effort for nothing?

    "It''s still useful," Yun Xiao suddenly spoke up.

    His role here was rather peculiar. When he opened his mouth, the Ice Lineage Diva leaned in, while the Snow Lineage Diva clearly didn''t want him to utter a word.

    "How so?" Hai Qing asked, curiosity sparking in her eyes.

    Yun Xiao replied, "At least when we coborateter, we can strike first, catch them unprepared, and stab them in the back before they can do the same to us."

    A heavy silence fell over the group.

    The Ice Lineage Diva''s eyes lit up. As expected of a Boundless Immortal¡ªhe truly had his ways.

    The Snow Lineage Diva rolled her eyes. <em>This damn ve¡­ so cunning and deceitful. I expected nothing less of the one even daring to use projection talismans to threaten me...</em>

    Wan Ji chuckled softly. She found this young man increasingly intriguing.

    And so, the matter of the alliance came to a close.

    Yun Xiao thought they would now wait quietly for the battle tomence.

    But suddenly, thunderous roars echoed around the Extreme Yin Star. A massive force of peak powerhouses was closing in, surrounding the ce!

    "The Heavenly Deity Alliance Joint Law Enforcement Division is here to capture the criminals! The Extreme Yin Star is hereby sealed off!"

 Chapter 844: Evidence Of a Date!

    "Heavenly Deity Alliance Joint Law Enforcement Division? They''re probably the ones overseeingw and order on the Heavenly Deity Star Streets." Yun Xiao mused.

    He knew they''d being eventually, but he hadn''t expected them so soon. This meant the Southern Divine Dragon Realm had already connected the Supreme Yin Cauldron with the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Such intelligence and swift action were far beyond what the secluded Extreme Yin Celestial Realm could muster. But that was only natural.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm was fiercely patriarchal, while the Harmony Divine Pce excluded all males. The former spread its influence freely across the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    They sealed off the Extreme Yin Star the moment they arrived.

    Yun Xiao and Feng Yao understood why, but the three Divas and Wan Ji''s daughters were unaware.

    Upon hearing the cold promation, the three exchanged nces. Their eyes showed confusion, yet they remained icy.

    "So eager to stir up trouble?" Si Ji, the Snow Lineage Diva, appeared delicate but was quickest to anger.

    What irked them most was the sheer number of arrivals this time.In an instant, hundreds of figures appeared overhead.

    Each bore the power of multiple cmities. Most were elders with heavy auras and abundant power. Their solemn faces carried the weight of righteous judgment, exuding an aura that dared not be met with direct gaze.

    Had there been only a few, the pressure might have been bearable. But with hundreds descending at once, their overwhelming presence seemed poised to crush the Extreme Yin Star.

    Most wore simr blue and white celestial armor, marking them as members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance Joint Law Enforcement Division.

    Another group had dragon horns atop their heads, towering statures¡ªsome reaching ten feet tall, twice the height of others, and three times the weight.

    They were even more imposing, each d in dragon robes and armor, exuding righteousness, masculine and fiery. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm had risen swiftly in recent years.

    The Law Enforcement Division descended alongside the Dragon Devil n. The former stern and just, thetter fierce and bold, they formed a tight encirclement, trapping everyone from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm on the Extreme Yin Star, as if to seize criminals.

    "Gong Tianjian, what is the meaning of this?" Yu Ji, the Ice Lineage Diva, her face like frost, cast her cold gaze toward the leader of the group.

    Gong Tianjian was a cold-faced, gray-haired old woman. Withered and small, she stood barely over four feet tall. Sparse strands of hair clung to a face etched with deep wrinkles, rendering her exceedingly unattractive.

    Yet, her eyes held a defiance that brooked no evil, and an aura that warned strangers away. The profound power of her immortal tribtionsmanded respect.

    Gong Tianjian, the Chief of the Heavenly Deity Alliance Joint Law Enforcement Division, was renowned throughout the Samsara Gxy. In seniority, she stood above even the Three Divas.

    The Law Enforcement Division was a joint force of the Heavenly Deity Alliance within the Heavenly Deity Ster River, tasked with judging good and evil in public realms. Their headquartersy on Heavenly Deity Star Street, and Gong Tianjian was their figurehead, wielding the highest authority.

    Throughout the ster river, she was a respected elder, famed for her irond justice. No scoundrel could escape her grasp.

    Only the Ice Lineage Diva dared to call her by name in such a setting.

    Everyone knew Gong Tianjian represented more than herself. She was a member of the esteemed Elysian Immortal Pce, one of the top celestial sects in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. With such backing, who would dare provoke her?

    The fact that she had emerged for this incident showed its gravity.

    Addressed by name, Gong Tianjian cast a cold gaze over the Three Divas. Her eyes were deeply indifferent.

    "Chief Gong''s personal arrival on the Extreme Yin Star is naturally to capture the murderer who openly killed on Heavenly Deity Star Street."

    Gong Tianjian remained silent, but a voice as deep as a mountain and fierce as thunder rang out from within the Dragon Devil n.

    The speaker was a golden giant. He bore a pair of golden dragon horns like those of a great stag, crowned upon his head. Standing ten feet tall¡ªhigh as a one-story tavern¡ªhis bright eyes burned like scorching suns. His beard resembled an inverted golden mountain. d in golden dragon armor that shone brilliantly, it was impossible to look directly at his majestic figure.

    Despite his burly frame, his face was not rugged. With sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes, he exuded righteousness. In his gaze, eight dragons seemed to swirl, marking him as a powerhouse of the Eighth Baptism Realm, aiming to be a Boundless Immortal.

    In the Heavenly Deity Ster River, such an appearance was known to all¡ªthe Golden Dragon Emperor, one of the Eight Dragon Emperors of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s Eight Divisions.

    The Young Dragon Lord who had been celebrating his birthday was his son.

    As the Golden Dragon Emperor of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, he was an acknowledged archenemy of the Harmony Divine Pce. They often shed throughout the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Here, he showed no courtesy. His tone and cold eyes held only the intent to suppress.

    Though he faced the Three Divas of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm alone, he was backed by over 100 members of the Dragon Devil n, with more than 30 Dragon Kings among them, giving him greater momentum.

    Most importantly, the Golden Dragon Emperor believed he was in the right. Acting with justification, he was unmatched.

    "Catching a murderer?" The three Divas, seeing this familiar and detestable figure, furrowed their brows.

    They were unafraid of trouble and ignored the aggressive Golden Dragon Emperor. Instead, they addressed Gong Tianjian, "May we ask, who on this Extreme Yin Star hasmitted murder?"

    As their words fell, hundreds of gazes fixed upon Feng Yao. Especially among the Dragon Devil n elders, when they saw her in person¡ªeven with their heads full of white hair and hunched backs¡ªtheir eyes couldn''t help but shine.

    As elders, they understood better than the younger generation the significance of the Supreme Yin Cauldron and the importance of legacy for the strength of their n.

    Those burning, possessive gazes were like filthy water pouring over Feng Yao''s entire body.

    Just those disgusting looks were enough to ignite Feng Yao''s anger.

    "These old fools have one foot in the grave and still want to stir up trouble?" she cursed inwardly but knew she had to keep herposure.

    Sure enough, Gong Tianjian wasted no words, her expression cold as she fixed her gaze on the War Princess. "You, Feng Yao of the Harmony Divine Pce, publicly executed Long Qinyang¡ªa Samsara Disciple of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªand eight weing attendants of the Southern Divine Dragon Cer on Heavenly Deity Star Street. You''ve vited thews, causing significant impact. ording to regtions, you should be detained, and on a chosen day, executed publicly as a warning to others."

    At these words, the faces of the Three Divas turned icy, and the seven elder sisters like Hai Qing quickly shook their heads.

    They knew Feng Yao had gone shopping, but how could she have killed a Samsara Disciple?

    Before their confusion settled, Wan Ji stepped beside Feng Yao, her eyes fearless as she asked, "Empty words prove nothing. Where''s the evidence?"

    At this, the old woman Gong Tianjian nced at the Golden Dragon Emperor.

    Beside the ten-foot-tall Golden Dragon Emperor, the elderly woman was scarcely as big around as his arm.

    Both were human, yet so different¡ªit was remarkable.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor, exuding a fierce aura andmanding without anger, gazed coldly at the three Divas. He turned to someone behind him and said, "Xiao Yin, show them the evidence."

    A Dragon Devil woman named Xiao Yin stepped forward. She too had golden dragon horns and stood nine feet tall. Her figure was as lithe as a serpent''s, somewhat like Feng Yao magnified twice over. Compared to Feng Yao''s subtle allure, this Dragon Devil woman was hotter and more grand, exuding the vibe of a golden war goddess.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Damn," Yun Xiao thought. The Great Mother was a corpse demon, and Lin Daiyuan was a tower Brute ck Bear. But he never expected a human woman could grow sorge too.

    He himself was considered tall among humans, barely matching Feng Yao. Yet before this nine-foot Dragon Devil n woman, he might only reach her abdomen.

    As he looked up at this towering war goddess, he felt as if he''d returned to his childhood at six or seven years old, gazing up at pce maids and wet nurses¡ªnothing but an overwhelming expanse above him.

    "The vastness of the Dao holds endless wonders. The Creator Immortal had fashioned all things and all races¡ªtruly remarkable," Yun Xiao couldn''t help but marvel.

    He had thought Feng Yao''s size was unparalleled¡ªlike a watermelon¡ªbut hadn''t expected someone whose face was as broad as a golden basin.

    "You could wash your face on that," Yun Xiao mused.

    "Who is she?" he asked Hai Qing beside him without thinking.

    "She should be Shen Nanyin, the daughter-inw of the Golden Dragon Emperor and the Young Dragon Empress," Hai Qing replied with a frown.

    She recognized her because Shen Nanyin was one of Harmony Divine Pce''s most troublesome opponents in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    "She wants your life, and you''re still curious about her?" Feng Yao snapped, more irked than ever at being overshadowed, especially hearing Yun Xiao''s interest.

    "They''re here to catch you," Yun Xiao said.

    "You... heartless!" Feng Yao huffed.

    The two whispered to each other under the gaze of the crowd, acting as if they feared nothing, which caused many elders to frown.

    Supreme Yin Cauldron and the 9-Star Boundless Immortal prodigy¡­ These two identities ovepped and had already spread; there was no way to stop the news.

    The only ones still in the dark were those from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    There was no helping it; their information was indeedgging. But the issue was, at such a critical moment, Feng Yao still had the mind to be angry with the young man beside her?

    "Feng Yao!" Shen Nanyin stepped forward until she stood before Yun Xiao and Feng Yao.

    Up close, the grandeur of this female Dragon Devil n member¡ªtowering like a one-story building¡ªwas even more imposing. Her radiant and pretty face looked down upon Feng Yao, eyes filled with deep contempt.

    It seemed that, as a woman of the Southern Divine Dragon n, she considered the status of the Supreme Yin Cauldron to be even lower than hers.

    Unexpectedly, despite her formidable physique, her voice was soft and sweet. Even when she tried to sound cold and harsh, it still came across as gentle,pletely at odds with her appearance.

    "Spit it out if you''ve got something to say," Feng Yao retorted, clearly displeased with Shen Nanyin''s gaze.

    "Heh." Shen Nanyin produced a flying talisman in her hand, which projected an image.

    In it, Feng Yao and Yun Xiao were touring the wines of the Southern Divine Dragon Cer, guided by Long Qinyang.

    At the time, they hadn''t expected that a simple outing would lead to the huge trouble of the Supreme Yin Cauldron, so they were quite intimate. Feng Yao held Yun Xiao''s arm; though she was a bit taller, she leaned on his shoulder, appearing very much like lovers.

    That was all the image showed.

    After watching, Wan Ji and Yu Ji remainedposed, but the Snow Lineage Diva, Si Ji, wore a face of icy anger, furious at the closeness between Yun Xiao and Feng Yao.

    Feng Yao had exined that Yun Xiao had saved her life, but... she was a 9-Star Boundless Immortal prodigy; how could she be so intimate with her own immortal ve in public!

    Si Ji trembled with rage.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    Si Ji trembled with rage.</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 845: Conducting a Body Search!

    But at that moment, the Ice Lineage Diva, Yu Ji, spoke up. Her words cut through Si Ji''s anger, bringing her back to her senses.

    The Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce were making their move!

    Yu Ji nced at the scene. <em>This is just a recording of Senior strolling with his sweetheart, isn''t it</em>? She asked coolly, "Is this your proof of murder? That receptionist is named Long Qinyang, right? How many guests does he receive in a day¡ªare they all murderers? Do you have any eyewitnesses or physical evidence?"

    Facing the Harmony Divine Pce, Shen Nanyin showed no fear. She put away the flying talisman and sneered, "The murderer''s methods were ruthless; they''ve destroyed the body to erase all traces. Indeed, there''s no other evidence. But¡­!"

    "But what?" Feng Yao asked impatiently.

    Shen Nanyin swept them with a cold gaze and smirked. "People are always greedy. After Long Qinyang''s death, a drop of Heavenly Dragon Saliva worth 1,000,000 Supreme Immortal Jades went missing. Coincidentally, your pipsqueak of a eunuch carries the scent of the Heavenly Dragon Saliva!"

    Yun Xiao had been marveling at the wonders of creation on this female member of the Dragon Devil n. But after being called a pipsqueak of a eunuch, his impressions of this nine-foot-tall woman immediately plummeted.

    This insult drew hundreds of disdainful, mocking, and contemptuous gazes toward Yun Xiao.

    Shen Nanyin already knew Yun Xiao''s identity as a celestial ve, which meant they''d thoroughly investigated beforeing!A eunuch! To the male-dominated Southern Divine Dragon Realm, it was the most excruciating shame imaginable. If such a fate befell them, life would hold no meaning.

    Even the decrepit old men among them, who could barely lift their heads, wore sly grins as they looked at this youth of unparalleled beauty butcking in<em> foundation</em>.

    The exalted Golden Dragon Emperor suddenlyughed. He said calmly, "The Three Divas must know that the scent of our n''s Heavenly Dragon Saliva is unique and cannot be replicated. The evidence of murder isn''t absent; it''s precisely hidden on these two."

    "That''s nonsense!"

    Before the Golden Dragon Emperor could finish, Feng Yao cursed, facing the ten-foot-tall golden giant head-on. She chuckled, "Anyone who''s been to the Southern Divine Dragon Cer carries a bit of that wine''s aroma. If that''s your evidence, isn''t it rather ridiculous?"

    The Golden Dragon Emperor narrowed his eyes, fixing a peculiar gaze on the Supreme Yin Cauldron. There was a deep meaning in his stare.

    He knew this female Yin Devil hailed from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, apanied only by a eunuch ve. She must be pure. He had rushed here, eager to rece his son and seize the prize himself.

    To him, she was the most enticing prey in the world. She was so spirited, like a calf unafraid of the tiger, which made the hunt all the better.

    Just then, Shen Nanyin sneered at Yun Xiao. She fixed her eyes on him and said coldly, "Are you the murderer? Once I search your boytoy, the truth wille out. Then, even if you had ten tongues, you couldn''t deny it."

    She was sure Yun Xiao couldn''t bear to consume the Heavenly Dragon Saliva, so he hadn''t drunk it. And she was right. But she didn''t know Yun Xiao hadn''t drunk it¡ªnot because he was reluctant, but because it was a gift.

    Her words <em>boytoy</em> brought malicious suspicions to the surface. Hearing them, many shook their heads and chuckled softly.

    "So much for a chaste and virtuousdy; in the end, she''s just lonely."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Making a treasure out of a eunuch¡ªisn''t that pathetic?"

    "What the Supreme Yin Cauldron needs is the Heavenly Dragon of our Southern Divine Dragon Realm to thoroughly develop her. Then she''ll realize there are pleasures a ve can''t provide."

    The eldersughed. They whispered among themselves, their aged faces creased with mirth.

    Shen Nanyin heard these insults and seemed amused. She blinked and cast a soft nce at Yun Xiao, smiling as she asked, "What do you use to please her, making her set aside her status to be close to you? Could it be as easy as lifting a hand?"

    As the consort of the Young Dragon Lord, she had tasted the heights of pleasure. Naturally, she looked down upon a little fellow like Yun Xiao who had lost his manhood.

    Yun Xiao was utterly fed up with her arrogance and spite. Weren''t women of the Dragon Devil n supposed to have low status? How could she be so shameless? Could it be that the lower their status, the more shameless they became?

    Shen Nanyin spoke carelessly, but her words struck deep. Yun Xiao and Feng Yao weren''t truly angry, but the Snow Lineage Diva, Si Ji, felt her very soul insulted. A cold fury burned in her chest.

    "Enough!" Si Ji''s furious voice cut through the chaos. A storm of snow and wind swept across the crowd, as she appeared in front of Yun Xiao and Feng Yao, forcing Shen Nanyin¡ªstill just a junior in her eyes¡ªto shiver uncontrobly and retreat in fear.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor, towering at ten feet tall, suddenly loomed before Si Ji, like a golden tidal wave crashing against a small ind. His presence was overpowering as he confronted her directly.

    "Snow Lineage Diva, refusing the search¡­ is that how you n to shield the murderer?" he demanded.

    With the Heavenly Deity Alliance''sw enforcement involved, and so many from the Dragon Devil n present, the crowd had grown from mere hundreds to over 5,000, all eager to witness the spectacle.

    It didn¡¯t take long for the bystanders to grasp the general situation.

    A tale had swiftly spread. A celestial prodigy had supposedly murdered someone in broad daylight, apanied by her lowly ve. The story of a noble genius and her debased servant, entwined in some scandalous affair, became instant gossip¡ªsomething to beughed at and circted.

    The rising tension between Si Ji and the Golden Dragon Emperor pushed the atmosphere to its breaking point.

    Faced with his aggressive posture, Si Ji responded coldly, "Cultivators have their secrets. Without evidence, you have no right to search anyone. How do I know you''re not scheming to steal treasures from my Harmony Divine Pce?"

    The Golden Dragon Emperor''s face remained impassive. "You''re joking. Do you truly think a mere ve could hide one of your pce¡¯s prized treasures? Now I¡¯m quite curious¡ªwhat is the true identity of this ve?"

    The Sea Lineage Diva, Wan Ji, spoke with a calm indifference. "Though he is a ve, he possesses the talent of a Heavenly Monarch and represents a force of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    The Ice Lineage Diva, Yu Ji, rolled her eyes, shaking her head in disbelief. She muttered under her breath, "What a bunch of fools. Blind, the lot of them."

    "Enough!" Gong Tianjian, who had remained silent, finally spoke, her voice solemn. "This matter has escted too far. If the disciple is at fault, we must not cover it up, lest it tarnish the reputation of our Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    "If you harbor grievances against the Dragon Devil n, I will personally conduct the search, inspecting only for the presence of Heavenly Dragon Saliva and nothing else. If we find no such thing, they will be cleared of suspicion.

    "This is the will of the Heavenly Deity Alliance Law Enforcement Division. I ask the Three Divas toply. Otherwise, I will be forced to use you of shielding a criminal before the highest authority."

    Her words were unyielding, leaving no room for rebuttal from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    For most of the gathered crowd, it seemed a simple matter. Searching a mere ve would quickly resolve the issue. Who cared about the privacy of a lowly ve?

    The more they resisted, the guiltier they seemed.

    "Search him! Search him!"

    "Strip that damned eunuch down! Let¡¯s see if he has anything to hide."

    "Search him!"

    The crowd erupted, their shouts filled withughter, pressuring the Harmony Divine Pce further.

    The atmosphere had shifted. With the Heavenly Deity Alliance intent on reforming and expelling those who didn¡¯t conform, many participants in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects were well aware. To them, forcing the proud celestial maidens to bow their heads in humiliation¡ªmaking them grovel at their feet¡ªwas the ultimate satisfaction, a pleasure all the more tantalizing.

    This was human nature! They had nothing to do with it, yet they longed to see the weak humiliated, feeding their twisted desires.

    Yun Xiao hadn''t expected the situation to be such a nuisance. He swept his gaze across the crowd,mitting to memory the faces of the Dragon Devil n, the Law Enforcement Division, and those who watched the spectacle with glee.

    These people were like those who, upon seeing someone about to jump off a building, encouraged them from below.

    Indeed, the Heavenly Dragon Saliva was on him. If Gong Tianjian searched him personally, there would be no escaping it. He hadn''t thought that killing someone to vent his anger would cause such big trouble.

    But their real target was Feng Yao, the Supreme Yin Cauldron. Whether he hadmitted murder or not, what was destined toe woulde. It was only a matter of time.

    "If others do not offend me, I will not offend them. But if they do..." Yun Xiao lifted his gaze, meeting the mocking eyes of Shen Nanyin, who held her head high; the cold and aloof Golden Dragon Emperor; and the seemingly righteous old woman, Gong Tianjian.

    "Senior, please don''t get angry yet. I have a way¡­" Yu Ji hurried over, fearing he might lose his temper and reveal his true identity.

    "What solution do you have?" Yun Xiao asked in surprise.

    "It''sing," Yu Ji replied with a gentle smile.

    As her words faded, a sword light shot in from afar.

    <em>VROOM! </em>A graceful figure in an orange dress appeared beside the three Divas.

    She was a woman from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, bearing the Divine Spring Serpent Tail. A Sword Immortal and a Valkyrie Queen, her features bore a slight resemnce to Yu Ji''s¡ªequally cold and pure.

    "It''s the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen!"

    Upon seeing her, Hai Qing and the others grew excited.

    "Who is this?" Feng Yao asked softly.

    "She''s the Ice Lineage Diva''s little sister and one of the Vice Chiefs of the Law Enforcement Division," Hai Mo exined.

    "The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen is one of the rare seniors from our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to hold a position in the Heavenly Deity Alliance," Hai Ying added with admiration.

    To rise from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and be a Vice Chief of the Law Enforcement Division was no easy feat.

    Yun Xiao recalled that Gong Tianjian was the head of the Law Enforcement Department. So this Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was one of her deputies?

    "Chief Gong, Dragon Emperor¡­" the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen greeted as she arrived, bowing to both.

    "What brings you here?" Gong Tianjian asked calmly.

    ncing at Feng Yao, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen said, "ording to thews of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects takes precedence over everything. The assembly is about to begin, and all other matters must make way. Feng Yao and Yun Xiao are participating disciples and are about to enter the battlefield. Even if they are suspected of murder, byw, the investigation can only proceed after the assembly concludes."

    She spoke clearly, neither arrogant nor submissive, showing no fear of her superior. Her demeanor was truly remarkable.

    Hearing this, Hai Qing and the others looked at her with admiration.

    "No way!" Shen Nanyin eximed, her face filled with anger.

    Gong Tianjian remained silent.

    "If we wait until after the assembly to investigate," Shen Nanyin continued, "they''ll have disposed of the Heavenly Dragon Saliva by then!"

    "Even if we find the Heavenly Dragon Saliva on them now, it could have been picked up and doesn''t directly prove they''re the murderers," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen replied to Shen Nanyin. "The Law Enforcement Division conducts investigations strictly. We won''t wrongfully use anyone, nor will we let any criminal escape. After the assembly concludes, we will establish a special investigation team."

    Her words also represented the Law Enforcement Division''s stance toward the Dragon Devil n.

    Gong Tianjian, naturally, was being represented by her.

    Immediately after speaking, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen turned to Gong Tianjian and said, "Chief, the assembly is about to begin. This is a major event hosted by the Heavenly Deity Alliance for the entire Samsara Gxy, more important than anything else. Sealing off the Extreme Yin Star now has already interfered with the activation of the Grand Assembly Arena''s battlefield."

    Of course, Gong Tianjian knew all this. She had been deliberately ignoring it, wanting to handle the matter directly and openly arrest Feng Yao.

    Once the evidence was conclusive, if the Three Divas of the Harmony Divine Pce caused trouble, they would be openly opposing the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    But now, with the arrival of the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, all reason was on their side.

    Even though the Dragon Devil n was furious and enraged, Gong Tianjian saw time slipping away. She could only turn to the Golden Dragon Emperor with a troubled look. "Rest assured, even if the murderer dies, their spirit won''t escape the Heavenly Deity Ster Formation."

 Chapter 846: The Political Undercurrents of the Heavenly Deity Alliance!

    At that moment, the Three Divas of Harmony Divine Pce, joined by the newly arrived Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, formed a tight formation around Feng Yao. They stood at four corners, guarding her so closely that not even a breath of wind could slip through.

    The Dragon Devil n elders present knew all too well that without a just cause, there was no way to forcibly take Feng Yao from such a formidable lineup.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had brought precisely that¡ªjustification. Even if it was a stretch, invoking the priority of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was enough to override all other matters.

    The death of a mere disciple paled inparison to the significance of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    If they dyed and wasted time, wouldn''t they be theughingstock of the other 17 ster rivers within the Immortal Dao Federation?

    Hearing Gong Tianjian''s words, the faces of the Dragon Devil n members turned as dark as storm clouds, their expressions grim and cold.

    Yet, they still had to give Gong Tianjian some respect.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor cast a meaningful nce at the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen and suddenly said, "If I''m not mistaken, it seems you''ve broken through to the Eighth Baptism Realm?"

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen nodded calmly and replied, "I was fortunate to achieve some sess."Hearing this, Wan Ji''s daughters were overjoyed.

    As for the Three Divas, they remained serene; they must have known this good news in advance.

    "Then congrattions to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. From now on, you''ll have four Divas," the Golden Dragon Emperor said.

    "The Divas are seats within the Harmony Divine Pce, representing the three lineages of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. There will only ever be three," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen responded inly.

    "I see." The Golden Dragon Emperor chuckled softly, then nced toward the Law Enforcement Division. Several vice chiefs were there, following behind Gong Tianjian, hailing from other celestial sects within the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    "So many vice chiefs present, and the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen is young and has already stepped into the Eighth Baptism Realm ahead of others. It seems the next candidate for Chief of the Law Enforcement Division should be you."

    He spoke these words in front of Gong Tianjian and the other vice chiefs, his intentions far from innocent.

    The other vice chiefs, unaware that the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had reached the Eighth Baptism Realm, heard the Golden Dragon Emperor''s provocation. Their faces turned sour, especially those harboring ambitions for the position of chief.

    As for Gong Tianjian herself, she showed no reaction, but everyone knew she considered herself youthful and intended to hold onto her position for a few more years.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "But!" Shen Nanyin, a junior who couldn''t hold her tongue, smirked coldly and said, "The Law Enforcement Division must be led by someone from a member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. If the Harmony Divine Pce gets eliminated this time, wouldn''t that be all for nothing?"

    "Mind your tongue," the Golden Dragon Emperor said with a smile. "The Harmony Divine Pce is strong this time, and with a 9-Star Boundless Immortal prodigy anchoring them, breaking into the top ten will be a breeze."

    Everyone knew the Southern Divine Dragon Realm longed to join the Heavenly Deity Alliance. But with only ten seats avable, they''d have to push someone out to get in. Among those ten, the weakest¡ªand most at odds with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªwas the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Without a ce in the Heavenly Deity Alliance, they couldn''t insert their people into the management of the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    That''s why the conflict between the Dragon Devil n and Harmony Divine Pce was so intense¡ªthey were a hair''s breadth away from drawing swords whenever they met. ??

    Blood had been shed today. Yet, the Dragon Devil n still held back. It showed just how crucial it was for them to strip the Harmony Divine Pce of its Heavenly Deity Alliance membership at this Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    Once that membership was gone, and without legal protection, they could swiftly cut through the tangle.

    "If there''s nothing else, Golden Dragon Emperor, please take your leave," Si Ji said coldly. "We need to prepare for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects."

    "Very well! I look forward to the outstanding performances of the talenteddies of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm," the Golden Dragon Emperor replied, a half-smile ying on his face. His handsome yet icy features radiated both divine might and chill. Towering ten feet tall, he looked down with a natural aura of dominance.

    His words carried a veiled threat, but Yun Xiao and Feng Yao seemed unfazed. Wan Ji''s daughters, however, couldn''t help feeling anxious.

    After all, ording to the rules, they were at a real disadvantage¡ªjust nine people, hardly an advantage.

    The truly strong and well-prepared were the other celestial sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, and the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, which had risen powerfully, ranking among the top three in overall strength.

    With strength in the top three, how could they not aim for the Heavenly Deity Alliance?

    "Father-in-Law, are we really going to let it go like this?" Shen Nanyin had thought seizing the Supreme Yin Cauldron would be an easy task.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor replied calmly, "The battle at the Grand Assembly Arena is also your chance. Once these women lose that protection of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, they''ll be like turtles in a jar¡ªnowhere to escape."

    The status of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was an umbre of protection, secured by their two founders. It had sheltered them for so many years; it was high time to remove it.

    "They think that producing a Boundless Immortal genius is their salvation. Little did they expect that this genius is actually the Supreme Yin Cauldron¡ªa fire elerating their downfall, haha..."

    Seeing that her elders and those impatient, lecherous old men could hold their tempers, Shen Nanyin naturally could do the same.

    However, before leaving, she nced at Yun Xiao once more, musing, "That ve is truly handsome; no wonder the Supreme Yin Cauldron favors him. Pity he''s impotent. No matter how handsome a man is, without potency, he''s not even as good as a stick."

    She allowed herself a sly nce.

    Unexpectedly, as she indulged in her thoughts, Yun Xiao caught her gaze, meeting her contemptuous eyes.

    At that moment, a cold me flickered in Yun Xiao''s eyes.

    "This woman is done for," Red Moon cackled. "To provoke our bro in such a way¡ªsome things an aunt might endure, but an uncle cannot."

    "Thest one who dared such provocation was big Cao Shuo," Blue Star added with a sinister smile. "Our bro sted her from one into nine pieces¡ªred, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet, gold, and silver¡ªthey all didn''t die in vain."

    "Bro, I like those two white porcin jugs¡ªthey''ve got a lot of capacity. When the timees, you must share one with me!" Red Moon''s eyes zed over as he stared,ying his im early. "Those who hog everything will have sons without butts!"

    This time, Yun Xiao didn''t silence them¡­

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    And so, the Law Enforcement Division and Dragon Devil n could only leave empty-handed, turning away.

    Their faces were cold, but it was clear they still held the upper hand in the judgment and punishment of the Harmony Divine Pce, so smirks weren''t scarce.

    Even Shen Nanyin, though her status wasn''t high, cast a pitying nce at these lofty celestial maidens.

    "Right now, you all seem quite clean. Once we remove the little status you have, no matter what divas you are, you''ll have to face the music."

    She was in high spirits, snorting as she turned and swayed her waist. That nine-foot-tall figure, sheer in volume alone, was a sight that could make one''s mouth go dry.

    But considering she was the exclusivepanion of the Young Dragon Lord, who would dare think more?

    Women of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm who could formally marry already held very high status. As for female Dragon Devils like her, they were taboos within their own n. Though their position at home was low, outsiders absolutely must not gaze upon them too much.

    That she coulde out and show her face already meant she was exceptional to the extreme.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Soon enough, the Law Enforcement Division and Dragon Devil n had departed.

    As for the various spectators who never tired of watching the excitement, seeing the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen interrupt a good show, they all lost interest.

    The entire Grand Assembly Arena housed 10,000 sects!

    Just within the Heavenly Deity Ster River alone, there were 555 celestial sects!

    In a short time, quite a few spectators had gathered¡ªa mixed crowd of humans, devils, and even demon sects.

    "There''s a rumor going around. Apparently, Feng Yao is the Supreme Yin Cauldron that the Dragon Devil n desires!"

    "This time, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm aims to trample the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm underfoot. Now that the Harmony Divine Pce has produced this perfect prey, it''s enough to drive the entire Southern Divine Dragon Star into a frenzy."

    "This Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects will be a spectacle to behold!"

    "Perhaps after it ends, there will be a real celestial war..."

    "Honestly, without the halo of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, those sanctimonious women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm aren''t a match for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm lives for battle, rising to such heights through fire and sword¡ªthey are born aggressors. These celestial maidens, hiding in their peaceful haven, aren''t enough to contend with them!"

    "It all depends on the real attitudes of the old powerful sects like the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce."

    "If they too are displeased with these erratic women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, then honestly, in a few years, the Harmony Divine Pce might no longer exist in the Heavenly Deity Ster River."

    The spectators hid in the distance, observing the Extreme Yin Star, whispering among themselves, cold smiles on their faces, indifferent as if it had nothing to do with them.

    The women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were indeed beautiful and noble, renowned far and wide, enough to drive many to distraction.

    If there were an opportunity to pull these celestial maidens down from the clouds, giving oneself a chance to soar, who would refuse?

    In the depths of human nature, the desire to profane was the greatest longing.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    "Bro, I like those two white porcin jugs¡ªthey''ve got a lot of capacity. When the timees, you must share one with me!" Red Moon''s eyes zed over as he stared,ying his im early. "Those who hog everything will have sons without butts!"</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 847: The Rules of the Game!

    After a long time, the <em>flies</em> buzzing around the Extreme Yin Star finally dispersed.

    On the star itself, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen brought news of the Supreme Yin Cauldron.

    When the Three Divas learned why the Golden Dragon Emperor was so eager to capture Feng Yao, they each reacted differently.

    Si Ji was seething today. She cared deeply for Feng Yao, treating her like her own personal disciple. Now, those Dragon Devil n beasts were after her. Though she said nothing, she bowed her head, eyes stormy with rage, killing intent surging.

    Wan Ji frowned, worry etched on her face. The burdens she carried seemed heavier than ever.

    Only the Ice Lineage Diva felt a secret joy.

    "The foolish Dragon Devil n dares to covet the Boundless Immortal''s little sweetheart. They''re dead for sure," she thought.

    The more extraordinary Feng Yao appeared, the more she believed in Yun Xiao''s identity as a Boundless Immortal. If she weren''t special, how could she be the Boundless Immortal''s little sweetheart? It all made perfect sense.

    "Perhaps we shouldn''t fight," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen said after a long silence. "Let''s withdraw from the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, give up our ce in the Heavenly Deity Alliance, return to guard the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, and stay put from now on.""Bing Yun, do you realize that if we retreat now, our descendants will never leave the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm," Wan Ji said, shaking her head sadly.

    "It''s not that serious," Si Ji interjected. "With a Boundless Immortal, we can reim our membership in the Heavenly Deity Alliance anytime."

    "You support retreating?" Wan Ji asked, surprised.

    Earlier, Si Ji''s fighting spirit was strong, but now she wanted to back down. It showed how grim the situation was.

    "Yes," Si Ji replied, ncing at Feng Yao. "The gazes of those beasts harm Yao Yao''s spirit."

    "Retreat? Nonsense," Yu Ji said casually. "Yao Yao isn''t that fragile. If you don''t believe me, ask her yourself."

    She was always like this, and it irked both Wan Ji and Si Ji.

    But what left them even more speechless was Feng Yao''s carefree attitude. She grinned and said, "Fight! Why not? We''re already here. If we don''t take down a few before heading back, I won''t feel right. If you want to leave, go ahead. I''m not going anywhere."

    Si Ji was at a loss for words.

    "It''s toote to turn back now," Yu Ji pointed out. "Whether it''s the Law Enforcement Division or the Dragon Devil n, they won''t let us escape through the Heavenly Deity Ster Formation peacefully unless we force our way out. Doing so might prevent us from leaving safely and would give them an excuse to target us."

    Her words were practical. They only made the mood heavier.

    Wan Ji and Si Ji hadn''t expected the matter of the Supreme Yin Cauldron. The situation was worse than they had imagined.

    "By the way," Si Ji said, casting an odd nce at Feng Yao. "Did you really kill that Samsara Disciple?"

    "Of course I did," Feng Yao replied, nting her hands on her hips. "It was like ughtering a chicken. Felt fantastic."

    Her excitement left Hai Qing and the others bewildered. They thought to themselves, "Is this girl truly so carefree? Has she never faced the hardships of the world?" ?

    "Don''t believe me?" Feng Yao tugged on Yun Xiao''s arm. "Lil Yun, let them smell the Heavenly Dragon Saliva. It''s wonderfully fragrant."

    Yun Xiao felt a flush of embarrassment. After all she''d said, they were bound to believe her now.

    He added, "We were followed on Heavenly Deity Star Street and suspected something was amiss. So, we questioned our pursuers about the Supreme Yin Cauldron, eliminated them, and then intercepted and killed Long Qinyang. But obviously, once the battle in the Grand Assembly Arena begins, we can''t keep this under wraps. We might as well face it head-on."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "And how do you propose we handle it?" the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen asked coldly, her eyes fixed on Yun Xiao.

    "By killing them," Yun Xiao said inly.

    "With what?" the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen retorted.

    Yun Xiao sensed she didn''t seem to like him. He fell silent. The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen turned to Yu Ji. "Sister, isn''t it absurd to let a ve join the battle? And their rtionship is so..."

    The closeness between Yun Xiao and Feng Yao during their journey had already spread, turning Feng Yao into aughingstock.

    Soon, everyone in the Grand Assembly Arena would be saying that Feng Yao, the Supreme Yin Cauldron and 9-Star Boundless Immortal prodigy, was so desperate for men that she wouldn''t even spare a ve, just ripe for the Dragon Devil n to satisfy her desires...

    She was displeased with how Feng Yao''s reputation was being tarnished.

    "That''s enough!" Yu Ji interjected, fearing that any more might provoke the ire of the senior who liked to pretend to be young. She said to the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, "Leave their affairs alone. Since we''ve chosen to continue participating, exin the full rules of the Grand Assembly Arena battle to the youngsters. Let them give it a try. Maybe they can defend our Heavenly Deity Alliance status."

    Her words didn''t convince the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, nor did they reassure Wan Ji and Si Ji.

    Among the ten members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was already weaker.

    The key issue was they were being targeted, granted only nine spots, while others like the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªnot even part of the Heavenly Deity Alliance¡ªhad fifty spots!

    Even if their elites weren''t exceptional, the overwhelming difference in numbers was crucial in this small-scale celestial war.

    "If we can fight, we''ll fight. If not, we''ll withdraw and find another way to break through," Wan Ji decided.

    "Either way, let the young ones do their best first," Yu Ji emphasized.

    "Very well." The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen couldn''t argue further and chose topromise.

    "You nine, gather around and listen," she said.

    She moved to an open space and called the younger ones over. Hai Qing, Hai Mo, Hai Yu, Hai Ying, and the other juniors gathered around Feng Yao and sat down before the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    Yun Xiao stood behind Feng Yao.

    The first part of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects¡ªthe Grand Assembly Arena battle¡ªwas about to begin.

    Yun Xiao also wanted to know how this game was yed. He loved games. If the rules were interesting, his excitement would only grow.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen''s face was cold and solemn. She surveyed the pure and innocent young girls. "The Grand Assembly Arena battle is essentially a simtion of a real celestial war of conquest. There will be elements like Star Barriers, Parent-Child gs, Kill Tokens, and the Grand Assembly Rankings. I''ll exin each one to you."

    Yun Xiao had participated in a real celestial war before, though on a smaller scale¡ªthe conflict between Naraka and the Celestial Court, involving four factions.

    But now, within the Heavenly Deity Ster River, there were 555 forces¡ªa grand melee among hundreds of factions within an enclosed map.

    The first part, the Grand Assembly Arena battle, was about ranking the forces within the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    The second part, the Ancestor Immortal Grotto battle, would see outstanding talents from the first part entering the Ancestor Immortal Grotto alone. It was no longer an internalpetition but a battle among geniuses from the entire Samsara Gxy.

    But that was a matter forter. The key now was how to fight the first part.

    That depended on the factors the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had just mentioned.

    She continued, "First is the Star Barrier. When the Grand Assembly Arena battle officially begins, each Taiyi Sourcecore in the arena will automatically generate a Star Barrier. For example, our Extreme Yin Star will manifest the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, simr to the one in our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. All Star Barriers are of equal strength. These barriers will automatically attack invaders, enhancing the defensive capabilities of any Taiyi Sourcecore."

    "Mhmm." The girls nodded.

    The Star barrier was easy to understand.

    "Each Star Barrier has a Star Nexus," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen went on. "The Star Nexus exists somewhere within the Taiyi Sourcecore. It''s where the barrier''s power is strongest and serves as each faction''s base or headquarters." She paused, then looked ahead, pointing to a stretch of icy mountains where snow-capped peaks met frozen seas. "Our Extreme Yin Star Barrier''s Star Nexus should be over there, where the ice, snow, and sea converge¡ªa ce akin to the Harmony Divine Pce in our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. It''s suitable for you to showcase your abilities and is easy to defend but hard to attack."

    "Good," the obedient girls nodded silently.

    Maintaining her grave expression, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen said, "Having exined the Star Barriers and Star Nexuses, next we''ll discuss the second factor¡ªthe Parent-Child gs."

 Chapter 849: Young Dragon Lords Birthday Bash! An Opportunity to Declare a Common Enemy!

    "We''ve only got nine representatives. There''s no need for deception. Just let Yao Yao be the Star Liege," Si Ji said inly. She thought the choice was obvious.

    "Me?" Feng Yao herself didn''t mind, but having been Yun Xiao''s little follower for so long, she instinctively looked towards him.

    It was supposed to be a decision set in stone. Yet, unexpectedly, there was a voice of dissent.

    "I shall be the Star Liege," Yun Xiao dered.

    His words caught the Three Divas, Wan Ji''s seven daughters, and the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen off guard.

    They were still unustomed to such a scene where a celestial ve, seemingly cing himself in the position of a Diva, arranged things.

    "Stop..." The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was about to scold him for his audacity when a hand covered her mouth.

    This hand, naturally, belonged to the Ice Lineage Diva, Yu Ji.

    "Big Sis, what are you doing?" The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was bewildered.However, Yu Ji signaled her with a nce.

    "Let''s step aside for a moment."

    Afterwards, she also nced at Wan Ji and Si Ji, signaling them to follow.

    The three of them, puzzled and frowning, walked away into the distant snowstorm.

    Meanwhile, Hai Qing and Hai Ying were secretly observing Yun Xiao and Feng Yao. They didn''t speak, but there was an odd feeling in their hearts. Who was the ve and who was the master here?

    Though they were of good nature,ing from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, they still had taboos to consider.

    The incident at the Southern Divine Dragon Cer involving Yun Xiao and Feng Yao was spreading rapidly, already tarnishing the reputation of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    "We only have so many spots and heavily rely on the power of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier. If the Star Liege is defeated, the barrier''s power will drop by two-thirds! In such a case, using a ve as a distraction to be the Star Liege is too risky," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen said with a frown.

    "The Extreme Yin Star is a symbol of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. No matter what, we can''t let a ve be the Star Liege. It''s a poor symbol, likely to be ridiculed," Si Ji quietly added.

    Yu Ji rolled her eyes, exasperated, "Who said using Yun Xiao as the Star Liege is just a distraction? Among our representatives, he''s the greatest variable, has the clearest mind, and perhaps is the strongest inbat..."

    "You must be mad," Si Ji finally snapped. Despite her personal opposition, she had respected Yu Ji''s decision to include Yun Xiao as a representative and held her peace. "Letting a celestial ve be the Star Liege now?"

    "Am I mad?" Yu Ji looked perplexed at the Snow Lineage Diva, her voice tinged with mockery. "Si Ji, you know everything, so why the act?"

    "What do I know?" Si Ji was taken aback.

    "Heh, still ying dumb? Stop the act," Yu Ji scoffed, "Don¡¯t think I¡¯m unaware of what passed between you and him. How he''s helping you achieve boundlessness¡ªdo you think we¡¯re blind? If you didn¡¯t trust him, would you have given yourself to him?"

    "Shut up!" Si Ji''s face turned a fiery red, her frame quivering slightly.

    "Boundlessness?" The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was shocked.

    Yu Ji nodded, then turned to Si Ji. "Be honest, how many Cmity Sources have you assimted now? Ten, or eleven? With your current strength, there aren¡¯t many at the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects who could rival you, right?"

    The Eighth Baptism Realm required assimting eight Cmity Sources. To be a Boundless Immortal, one had to assimte another eight, and those at the Burying Heaven grade!

    Si Ji felt as if her world had been turned upside down, her most vulnerable self stripped bare. The earlier mockery from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm towards Feng Yao now seemed to mock her too, severely shaking her convictions.

    The looks from Yu Ji and Wan Ji only added to her disgrace.

    "Si Ji..." Suddenly, Yu Ji grasped her shoulders, saying, "You have no need for guilt. You did it for the future of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. We all understand. His peculiar existence, helping you break the chains set by the founders, reaching Boundlessness¡ªthat''s your destiny. You need to be braver, more bold in admitting it. We all respect you!"

    Hearing this, Si Ji''s eyes reddened, tears welling up.

    "I''m just, just... He''s..." Si Ji struggled with the barrier within her heart. What peculiar existence? Yun Xiao was merely a ve. At best, just a cunning, shameless celestial ve.

    "You''re still pretending?" Yu Ji was exasperated. She patted Si Ji on the shoulder. "Alright, don¡¯t dwell on those shackles. Be brave, be yourself. You¡¯ll be a new monument in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!"

    With that, she nced towards Yun Xiao and chuckled, "As for the matter of the Star Liege, deep down, you understand what he¡¯s capable of, right?"

    Si Ji appeared lost, still mired in the embarrassment of her secrets being exposed.

    Then, Yu Ji turned to the Sea Lineage Diva, Wan Ji, "We''veid it all out, you must have figured it all out by now, right?"

    Wan Ji stared at Yu Ji and Si Ji with a gaze as deep as the ocean, her expression odd and probing. She had also scrutinized Yun Xiao closely, suspecting that this young man possessed some secret method that could influence the Ice Lineage Diva. No detail could escape her keen eyes.

    Yet, she also didn''t understand what Yun Xiao truly signified, only that he could save her daughter¡ªa bizarre and capable genius. Crucially, she had also seen his root of sin.

    What more could this boy bring?

    She was eager to find out.

    Clearing her throat, Wan Ji nodded and dered, "Yes, I understand. Let him be the Star Liege!"

    "There, it''s settled! You allplicate things too much. Especially you, Si Ji, you¡¯ve always been indecisive since you were a child," Yu Ji said with a knowing smile.

    "What exactly is understood here?" The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was lost in the fog of conversation, surprised that the Three Divas had made a decision so swiftly!

    While Si Ji was still drowning in her emotions and hadn''t spoken, at least the decision by the other two Divas seemed to finalize matters.

    "It''s none of your concern. Just keep your eyes peeled, and all your doubts will be cleared," Yu Ji said coolly.

    "Huh?" The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was utterly bewildered.

    "Just a hint for you." Yu Ji tapped her on the forehead. "You better practice your Ice Spirit Eye!"

    With that, she returned to the children, cheerfully announcing the decision to make Yun Xiao the Star Liege.

    "Huh?" Hai Qing and the others were just as perplexed.

    ncing at the other two Divas¡ªone wore a deep, mysterious smile, her eyes alight as they rested on Yun Xiao, while the other seemed on the verge of tears, a deep struggle happening within her...

    What was going on? Regardless, the matter was oddly settled.

    Yun Xiao would be publicly dered as the Star Liege to enhance the defensive capability of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    The Grand Assembly Arena reached its liveliest moment.

    As time marched on, the Grand Assembly Arena braced for war. The once bustling Heavenly Deity Star Street had finally quieted down.

    People either returned to the Grand Assembly Arena, ready to join the battle, or headed to the Million Starlight Pce to watch a full-view disy of a savage expansion, a war of genius Immortals testing both human nature and intellect.

    In the Grand Assembly Arena, every Taiyi Sourcecore hummed with activity. Talented Immortals from all over the Samsara Gxy, under the guidance of their elders, were in their final rehearsals, deciding on their Star Liege and strategies.

    Every Taiyi Sourcecore was a hub of fervent activity, brimming with battle zeal.

    The 10,000 Taiyi Sourcecores in the Grand Assembly Arena had already begun to shimmer, and within an hour, the Star Barriers would be fully operational, marking the explosive onset of this simted celestial war.

    In the final hour before the Grand Assembly Arena would close off, barring any further entries into its sealed map, a grand birthday celebration was still underway atop the most majestic Sun-Moon Star Tower on Heavenly Deity Star Street.

    The attendees, true to their fearless natures, were giants in the celestial dao, the future of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    At the top of the tower, in a hall as dazzling as a starry sky, the splendor was unmatched. Delicacies from mountains and seas filled the tables, fine wines and sumptuous dishes abounded, and beauties from all corners danced and sang. Every nook was a feast for the eyes in this highest of Samsara Gxy''s gatherings.

    Beneath the cascading starlight, talented disciples from various celestial sects of the Heavenly Deity Ster River glittered brightly.

    Aside from the great hall, there were private rooms of honor where, it was rumored, many a prodigy from the Heavenly Deity Alliance hade to dine before battle, a testament to the clout of the Southern Divine Dragon¡¯s young master.

    These elite prodigies sat in elevated ces, beyond the usual reach of ordinary celestial talents.

    For an ordinary celestial prodigy to be part of this apex gathering of young Immortals of the Heavenly Deity Ster River was a boast for a lifetime.

    The host¡¯s seat was upied by the Young Dragon Lord, who resembled a golden mountain standing at ten feet tall! He was already three rounds into his drinks.

    The necessities of courtesy and alliances, facilitated by the fine wines from the Southern Divine Dragon''s Cer, especially the Heavenly Dragon Saliva, were all neatly managed.

    His presence wasmanding; he was astute and meticulous, with an imperial charisma born for such asions.

    When reminded of the time, the Young Dragon Lord nodded and suddenly stood with his cup raised.

    His movement brought silence to the Sun-Moon Star Tower.

    All the celestial geniuses, slightly flushed yet serene, watched him intently. They all had a sense of what the Young Dragon Lord would say in these final moments.

    "My friends¡ª" The Young Dragon Lord, with a voice as booming as a holy dragon and a face increasingly marked by righteous anger, dered, "For years, within the Heavenly Deity Ster River, there has persisted a most unrighteous tendency. Because of contributions by our ancestors, the Heavenly Deity Alliance has been unable to judge them, allowing such sinister forces to grow ever more bold and disruptive, creating chaos and disasters, leading countless innocents to ruin, their families broken, plunged into abysses!"

    With these words, the Young Dragon Lord scanned the room with a cold gaze, his voice fierce, "You all know of whom I speak!"

    "He means the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, right?"

    "Of course, who else but the Harmony Divine Pce?"

    "If it was in doubt before, it''s almost certain with all the rumors of the Supreme Yin Cauldron floating around¡­"

    ¡­

    Starting from the corners, a flood of murmurs filled the room.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yes! It is them! Noble members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, yet theymit countless atrocities! Do you know how many innocent men are trafficked, plundered, and taken to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm each year, each month? Men who could have lived whole lives, yet tragically were reduced to very, living a life of despair! Ultimately, they end up as fuel for pills or buried alive!"

 Chapter 851: Divide and Conquer, Limitless Ambition!

    After the birthday banquet, gifted and monstrous immortals from various factions exchanged flying talismans before dispersing one by one.

    Left behind in the Sun-Moon Star Tower were almost entirely the elites of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    A group of Samsara Gxy disciples from the Dragon Devil n gathered around the Young Dragon Lord. Each stood tall and strong, like dragons and phoenixes among men, their eyes sharp and their presence imposing.

    The strength of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s new generation was in to see. They were the finest in the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    Even more intimidating, these individuals weren''t the only fighters from the Dragon Devil n. Other Dragon Princes, with equally formidable forces, were present, though none as conspicuous as the Young Dragon Lord.

    With no outsiders around, these young Immortals of the Dragon Devil n no longer hid their fierce beliefs andmanding presence.

    They were born for battle, their ancestral spirits filled with an unyielding resolve to fight to the end. Their rise from a small tribe to their current strength was no ident.

    Today''s birthday feast for the Young Dragon Lord was grand because he was backed by the formidable Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    This rampaging dragon, swiftly rising in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, seemed unstoppable. So, all the guests had no choice but to ept them.

    "Young Dragon Lord!"

    The Dragon Devil n members stared fiercely at the ten-foot-tall golden dragon-horned giant.

    "Apart from the Harmony Divine Pce and two other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliances, everyone else epted the invitation¡­" the Young Dragon Lord mused, a yful glint in his eyes and a slight smile at his lips.

    "We know. It¡¯s the Ancestral Land and the Nine Yin Soul Sea!"

    "Let the Ancestral Land be; they''ve always been an eternal sect in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Even now, even if we and the Elysian Immortal Pce can challenge their status, they still have cause for pride."

    "The Nine Yin Soul Sea really is courting death!"

    "Besides crushing those bitch women, we have to at least drag the Nine Yin Soul Sea out of the top ten so they bow to us too!"

    "Apparently, the Ancestral Land has a Fifth Baptism Realm genius participating. So, they''re acting all cocky."

    "You guys are mistaken." The Young Dragon Lord shook his head, a leisurely smile ying on his lips.

    "How so?" the others asked, puzzled.

    "In the Heavenly Deity Ster River, where heroes sh for supremacy, if we aim to be its ultimate masters, we must form alliances and employ a divide-and-conquer strategy.  ?

    "The key lies in dismantling our enemies one by one, absorbing them as we go, rallying forces against each adversary,pletely eliminating one before moving to the next.

    "Only then can we gradually consume the Ster River and dominate the Samsara Gxy! Otherwise, relying on our current strength and making enemies everywhere will lead even the mighty Southern Divine Dragon Realm to its downfall."

    Earlier, the Young Dragon Lord''s deration had stirred emotions, passion flowing freely, seeming somewhat rash. But it was all a facade, a y under the banner of righteousness.

    "It''s fine if the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea ignored us this time around. Not only are we not going to sh with them, but we''ll also offer them incentives. This makes it less likely for them to side with the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    "Once we wield the banner of freeing the celestial ves topletely consume the Harmony Divine Pce, we¡¯ll have the freedom to target them next." The Young Dragon Lord gave a cold smile.

    Hearing this, the others had a moment of rity. The impulsive fervor born of their strength began to settle.

    "Most of the other 17 Ster Rivers have a dominant sect. But our Heavenly Deity Ster River is fragmented by numerous heroes, gued by internal strife and losses in battles within the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    "Why don¡¯t we have a supreme celestial sect? It''s because the current leaders, the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pceck the true ability and potential to dominate a Ster River... But our Southern Divine Dragon Realm has grown a hundredfold from a small tribe to today. Expanding it to a thousandfold? What¡¯s so difficult about that?"

    The Young Dragon Lord didn¡¯t hide the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s ambition. He rarely voiced such thoughts, but today he spoke to broaden his followers¡¯ horizons.

    "Your hearts must be wild and ambitious, but our actions must be meticulous! First, we step over the Harmony Divine Pce to enter the Heavenly Deity Alliance, securing our position in the ruling of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    "From there, forming alliances and employing our strategy bes even more crucial! Everyone, do you understand?" The Young Dragon Lord nced at the fervent Dragon Devil n members.

    "Understood!"

    "Anyway, our current goal is to ally with everyone, focusing solely on the Harmony Divine Pce."

    "Right!" The Young Dragon Lord smiled. "We don''t care about our position in the Grand Assembly Rankings. Last time, we already took the top spot. This time, we''ll save face for the other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliances, letting them shine, while we crush the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Even if we drop to tenth ce, it doesn''t matter."

    In the previous Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, the geniuses of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm had risen powerfully, making history by iming the first position. It had already sent ripples through the Samsara Gxy.

    Today''s birthday banquet for the Young Dragon Lord saw so many people attendingrgely thanks to that significant victory.

    "After gaining the advantage, we must remain hidden and bide our time. When our spirits are fully replenished and the enemy lets their guard down, we strike like lightning and take down the next target!"

    The Young Dragon Lord''s words ignited a surge of passion in the hearts of the Dragon Devil n''s geniuses.

    However, they had learned to control themselves. No longer recklessly confronting everyone, they now wore friendly smiles to all while maintaining a fierce demeanor to dominate their own side amidst the chaos.

    "Southern Divine Dragon warriors, the time hase. Prepare for battle! Gather your forces at the Southern Divine Dragon Star and conquer the world!"

    With the speech concluded, everything was in ce.

    The Young Dragon Lord''s deration stirred the talents before him like a volcano ready to erupt. Even before the battle, their eyes burned red with determination.

    They assembled, each towering over eight feet, their divine might vast and formidable, resembling a legion of giants.

    "Shen Nanyin!" As the Young Dragon Lord was about to move forward, he suddenly halted, ncing at a graceful nine-foot figure in the corner.

    "Young Dragon Lord." Shen Nanyin replied respectfully. Though her husband she bowed her head and approached him cautiously.

    To be honest, she was more nervous in front of the Young Dragon Lord than with her father-inw, the Golden Dragon Emperor. He wouldn''t harm her, but the Young Dragon Lord was known for his fierce strikes.

    "Where''s our child?" the Young Dragon Lord asked, his cold gaze fixed on her.

    Shen Nanyin pointed towards the side hall and whispered, "I''ve just fed him. He''s asleep."

    Upon hearing this, the Young Dragon Lord responded harshly, "Then change into your battle armor immediately. Or do you n to bring that softness to the battlefield?"

    Shen Nanyin quivered, clutching her chest and cor, her voice barely above a whisper, "Young Dragon Lord, can¡¯t I stay behind? The Dragon Devil n is brimming with talent. It seems I¡¯m not really needed. And our child is still young. Even with maids and nannies, I¡¯m still uneasy..."

    Before she could finish, the Young Dragon Lord''s patience snapped. He seized her by the neck, lifting her effortlessly before pping her cheeks twice. Grabbing her golden hair, he snarled, "Shen Nanyin, you''re speaking too much. Do you really think that you¡¯ve earned some merit just by giving me a son?"

    Another strike left her scalp burning. Tears welled in Shen Nanyin¡¯s eyes as she nodded shakily. "I-I understand! I won¡¯t dare again."

    With a heavy thud, he threw her to the ground.

    The scene caused several Dragon Devil n geniuses to halt and nce back.

    "Get lost! Or I''ll gouge your eyes out," the Young Dragon Lord warned, his re icy.

    The young men fled in terror, hearts pounding. As members of the Dragon Devil n, they knew that staring at the principal wife was tantamount to inviting death.

    In the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, the status of women was low. Most could be freely given or toyed with, but respectable wives from good families were private possessions, forbidden to be ogled.

    Shen Nanyin was one such woman. Her father held a high position too, but since she was a woman, she had to endure the Young Dragon Lord¡¯s beatings. Her father wouldn''t intervene.

    This had twisted her psyche somewhat.

    After being beaten, Shen Nanyin hurriedly changed into a set of tinum-colored celestial armor. The armor entuated her figure, especially the breastte and battle skirt, which were full and rounded. Her long legs alone surpassed those of ordinary humans.

    "Do you know why I insisted you go to battle?" The Young Dragon Lord''s temper had cooled. "Do you, Shen Nanyin?"

    Leaning against him like a tamed fawn, she spoke softly, "Please, Young Dragon Lord, tell me."

    He held her chin, suddenly smiling. "The Southern Divine Dragon Realm has a bad reputation. They always say we bully women and that no women have ever fought in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. By sending you into battle, I¡¯m silencing them and showing these petty fools the true beauty of our Southern Divine Dragon Realm. They¡¯ll see that we honor women after all."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 852: Let The Games Begin

    Shen Nanyin''s face brightened with joy at his words, feeling as though she had been granted the highest favor. Tears welled up, her happiness overwhelming her. She nodded repeatedly, her voice trembling with emotion, "Young Dragon Lord, I will surely perform well!"

    "Let''s go." The Young Dragon Lordughed heartily, his arm wrapping around her waist withmanding grace. Together, they soared out of the Sun-Moon Star Tower.

    Shen Nanyin found herself bathed in the spotlight, the attention of countless onlookers upon them. In that brilliant glow, they were the perfect match¡ªtalented and beautiful, their apparent love sweet and natural. This sight transformed everyone''s impression of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, solidifying the Young Dragon Lord''s stature as he tightly held the banner of fighting to free the celestial ves.

    "Young Dragon Lord..."

    Never before had Shen Nanyin experienced such a sublime moment. Clinging to the Young Dragon Lord''s strong waist, she was immersed in bliss, her eyes shining with indescribable joy.

    She knew deep down that now she was the emblem of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s favored woman, her future destined to grow brighter... until the day when the Young Dragon Lord no longer needed to manage his image within the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    That day was too distant for her to consider. She wished only to remain in this majestic embrace, never wanting to leave.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Back in the Grand Assembly, almost all the participants had arrived. Above the horizon, streams of starlight cascaded down into a timer. And on these 10,000 Taiyi Sourcecores, everyone''s hearts seemed to beat in sync with the countdown.

    The Heavenly Deity Star Street was nearly deserted now.

    In contrast, the Million Starlight Pce was teeming with life, packed with millions upon millions of people. The elites of the entire Samsara Gxy had gathered here inrge numbers.

    The Million Starlight Pce itself was a vast Sourcecore Sanctuary. All the citizens of the Immortal Dao had congregated inside, holding their breath in anticipation.

    Looking around, countless heads were packed tightly together.

    Above the Million Starlight Pce, an endless light screen stretched across the sky, transforming the three-dimensional views of the Grand Assembly Arena''s key areas into two-dimensional projections on this Million Starlight Sky Screen.

    The Million Starlight Sky Screen was divided into 18 regions, with the Heavenly Deity Ster River hosting at the center. Its vast expanse boasted the clearest projections, allowing even the smallest rocks to be seen with startling rity.

    At the very heart of the Heavenly Deity area stood ten esteemed seats. These seats belonged to the ten sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, each offering around 500 lower seats to amodate their important figures. Nine of these seats were nearly full, a testament to the reverence the likes of the Ancestral Land, Elysian Immortal Pce, and Nine Yin Soul Sea held for the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    Yet, the final seat, designated for the Harmony Divine Pce, held only a solitary, graceful figure¡ªthe Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, who had sessfully broken through to the Eighth Baptism Realm.

    In such a grand setting, a member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance sending out only a single person stood out like a sore thumb.

    Many people couldn''t help but notice the discrepancy, eliciting many snickers and murmurs among the crowd.

    "Too many people!" the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen thought, choosing to shut out the noise and find peace in silence. She knew all too well the enormity of the challenges facing the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    The millions of eyes upon her were like piercing swords of judgment, intent on bringing her down. Yet, she held firm. Sadly, she realized that aside from sighing, there was nothing she could do.

    "The three of them are all on the Extreme Yin Star. Even if the Harmony Divine Pce is eliminated, they will protect Feng Yao¡¯s safety. When the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects ends, I can only hold back the strong enemies here, hoping they can take the children and leave the Heavenly Deity Ster Formation," she mused.

    The news of the Supreme Yin Cauldron was an unforeseeable cmity. The Samsara Gxy¡¯s regtions protected countless celestial talents, which had allowed them to bring out Feng Yao.

    Now, the Supreme Yin Cauldron had only fueled the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s madness. They had already convinced the Heavenly Deity Alliance to disregard the contributions of their ancestors; who knew if they would dismantle the protections for celestial talents as well?

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was not afraid of death, but seeing all the daughters of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm walking together to the edge of the death cliff made her nerves fray.

    "What is giving my big sister so much confidence?" the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen muttered. She still found it absurd that Yu Ji was putting so much stock into a lowly ve.

    "Ice Cloud, where are the Three Divas?"

    Just as expected, those people wouldn¡¯t let her sit here without a fight. The speaker¡¯s voice effortlessly pierced through the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen¡¯s defenses.

    The speaker was none other than the head of the Joint Law Enforcement Division of the Heavenly Deity Alliance¡ªGong Tianjian!

    However, she wasn¡¯t seated with the Elysian Immortal Pce. Instead, she was just below the section reserved for the ten sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, in the area of the second-tier celestial sects of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    One of the regions alone held over 800 seats, all filled to capacity with the top warriors of the Immortal path. Nearly all were men, each towering and burly, sitting even higher than they stood.

    It was none other than the area of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s Dragon Devil n!

    And Gong Tianjian sat beside the golden-robed Golden Dragon Emperor, like an old rabbit next to a mighty lion.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen nced in that direction.

    Near the Golden Dragon Emperor, the sections of three other factions were present, each hosting several hundred formidable warriors.

    They were the zing Yang Sect, the Thunder Devil Sect, and Wind Pool Valley! The heads of these sects were Yang Qingtian, Chi Wushuang, and Lei Zhenyuan respectively.

    All three sat right next to the Golden Dragon Emperor and Gong Tianjian.

    As Gong Tianjian spoke to her, over 1,000 warriors on that side nced over with looks of derision. The oppression, ridicule, and teasing in their eyes felt like towering mountains.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen held her ground under immense pressure, her voice calm as she spoke, "The Three Divas dislike themotion. So, they chose to stay on the Extreme Yin Star."

    "Oh." Gong Tianjian had expected as much. She replied coolly, "Then you must remind them that ording to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects'' rules, any interference will result in the Harmony Divine Pce being rankedst and eliminated. I need not borate on how crucial this assembly is for you."

    "Please rest assured, we are well aware," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen responded.

    After she spoke, the over 1,000 attendees couldn''t suppress theirughter.

    "Seems like the Harmony Divine Pce is flustered. They''re trying so hard to protect their precious little prodigy."

    "That''s a good thing. The children don''t know how to hold back. We can''t have our Supreme Yin Cauldron being harmed."

    News of the Supreme Yin Cauldron had spread throughout the Samsara Gxy, and the elders of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm sat here, unable to conceal their longing.

    At their age, they effortlessly spun crude jokes, delving into the most sensitive details... they picked them up with ease, amusing the crowd.

    Men of the Dragon Devil n were indeed naturally confident; in their eyes, even women from other celestial sects were merely prey or ythings, just not easily conquered for the time being.

    These remarks made the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen clench her fists, feeling deeply humiliated.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen," Chi Wushuang said softly with a sweet smile. As the head of the Wind Pool Valley, she was the only other woman there. "Do you know why the Harmony Divine Pce only has you representing it today?"

    After asking, without waiting for the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen to reply, sheughed, "That''s because, as the saying goes, those who follow the Dao gain much assistance, while those who lose it have little support. Seek respect, avoid crooked ways, refrain from evil deeds, and steer clear of the path to self-destruction."

    "Hahaha!"

    The zing Yang Sect, Wind Pool Valley, and Thunder Devil Sect echoed theughter of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s strongmen,ughing together in unison.

    Theirughter elevated the atmosphere of the Million Starlight Pce to its peak!

    It painted a stark contrast to the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen''s solitary anger.

    The entire Million Starlight Pce was abuzz with noise and undercurrents of tension!

    Before long, many nced up at the Million Starlight Sky Screen as the countdown started approaching zero.

    "The Grand Assembly Arena has been sealed. The Parent-Child gs are descending. The Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects has begun!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 853: Carefree Windy Clouds!

    The Grand Assembly Arena''s countdown timer went down to thest three seconds, each ring resounding louder than thest.

    With the final and loudest ring, the sound abruptly ceased.

    Suddenly, the Grand Assembly Arena plunged into absolute silence.

    It was as if everyone had simultaneously plunged into a dark forest, where silence devoured the world, dragging the prodigies of the Samsara Gxy into a primal battlefield.

    <em>HUM! </em>A colorful aurora cloaked the sky at that very moment.

    Those prodigies on the Taiyi Sourcecores knew this aurora marked the boundaries of the Grand Assembly Arena! Its appearance heralded the sealing of the arena, and more so, the onset of the campaign!

    The cold aurora shone on the young, fervent faces below, casting shadows of varying ambitions and dreams.

    Tucked away on a remote corner of the Extreme Yin Star, a formationyered with icy tundra, snowy mountains, and frozen seas now concealed the entire Taiyi Sourcecore!

    Feng Yao and herpanions looked around at the winterndscape and surging cold tides. The temperature of the Extreme Yin Star fell dramatically as a blizzard plunged the world into an icy hell.Nearby, at the heart of the formation, the blizzard was the most fierce. Ice des swirled through the air, barely visible through the curtain of snow, forming a violent cyclone which wreaked havoc around the Star Nexus!

    Being there, one could truly feel the immense power of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier.

    However, as the current rulers of the Extreme Yin Star, the nine of them¡ªeight women and one man, all strikingly attractive¡ªwere unaffected by the barrier''s formation. Ayer of light enveloped them, shielding them from the blizzard, allowing them freedom of movement.

    Undoubtedly, the activation of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier greatly bolstered their confidence in defending the g of their home star.

    To ensure the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm would not toil for the benefit of others, regardless of how many Taiyi Sourcecores they conquered, their home star g was absolutely critical to retain!

    At this moment, the nine of them gathered around the nexus, their expressions solemn as they awaited the arrival of their home star g.

    The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was about to face its most brutal trial in history. Aside from Yun Xiao, the eight beautiful maidens could hardly hide their nervousness. Although the barrier did not affect them, their eyes still trembled slightly under the icy winds.

    "Here ites." Hai Qing whispered softly. From beyond the sky, an ice-blue triangr g descended. This g, embodying the three elements of ice, snow, and sea, hung solitary and beautifully, like a faith unto itself.

    "Yun Xiao, as the Star Liege, you must take the Parent g, drop your blood on it, and insert it into the celestial nexus to produce subsidiary star gs," Hai Qing called out to Yun Xiao over the roar of the blizzard, theirmunication slightly strained by the tumult.

    Truthfully, Hai Qing still felt a twinge of confusion, unsure of the purpose behind this arrangement.

    The sealed Grand Assembly Arena naturally blocked any externalmunication. So, the people from the Million Starlight Pce could see who the Star Liege of each Taiyi Sourcecore was.

    However, the young prodigies participating in thepetition had no clue! So, those observing from the highest vantage point found the spectacle even more thrilling.

    "How do we reveal the choice?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Provide two drops of blood. Once the Extreme Yin Parent g absorbs them, your name will appear outside the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, and its power will immediately intensify," Hai Qing exined.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Having an outsider as the Star Liege was a good way to fool the opponent. Yet, they were revealing this openly¡­

    The seven sisters werepletely baffled!

    Still, regardless of their confusion, thepetition was already underway.

    Yun Xiao flew over to the g and dropped two drops of blood onto it. As his blood flowed over it, he pressed down his finger and wrote his name before thrusting the g into the swirling Star Nexus below! ?

    <em>BOOM! </em>The power of the entire Extreme Yin Star Barrier increased by about a tenth.

    "Child gs." Yun Xiao tapped the Parent g, and from it sprang tiny ice-blue spheres that fell into his hand.

    Yun Xiao took fifty of these spheres.

    "Just insert them into an opponent''s Star Nexus, and they''ll be gs," Hai Qing exined.

    "Alright," Yun Xiao nodded, exuding the aura of a family patriarch.

    "This little ve..." Hai Qing bit her lip, her emotions mixed. On one hand, like her mother, she was grateful to Yun Xiao; on the other, she was anxious about the future.

    "Feng Yao, we still need to name our force!" Hai Ying, the more optimistic one, said excitedly to Feng Yao.

    "Isn''t Extreme Yin Star the name?" Feng Yao asked, puzzled.

    "The Extreme Yin Star is just a ce," Hai Ying exined. "The name of our force, which we''ll use to wage wars and capture territories, is also important. It can be different every session."

    "Oh, I see."

    That was understandable. For instance, thend Yun Xiao came from as a mortal was called the Eastern River ins. However, the country on top of it was called the Cloud Nation. What they needed now was akin to a nation''s name.

    "Who usually names it?" Feng Yao inquired.

    "The Star Liege," Hai Ying said, ncing at Yun Xiao.

    "You decide," Yun Xiao said indifferently, showing little interest in the matter.

    With a huff, Feng Yao looked down and then said softly, "Alright, then let¡¯s call it <em>Carefree Windy Clouds</em>."

    "Really? Alright, whatever." Yun Xiao wrote the name on the Extreme Yin Parent g.

    So, in the Grand Assembly Arena, a force known as <em>Carefree Windy Clouds</em> was officially established!

    This name had nothing to do with the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Wan Ji''s seven daughters were a bit conflicted. But it was already decided, nor was it that important. So, they thought no more of it.

    Having taken the Child gs, Yun Xiao emerged from the Star Nexus and returned to Feng Yao''s side, whispering in her ear, "So, why did you decide to make it abination of our two names?"

    "Obviously, to trap you!" Feng Yao said.

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless.

    Suddenly, nine leaf-shaped objects resembling eyes suddenly floated down from the sky, settling on their foreheads, slowly melding into their flesh and vanishing.

    "Is this the Personal Pledge?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Yes," Hai Qing nodded.

    "The Parent g is a collective Pledge of Allegiance. We must guard it well," Hai Ying added.

    "The Grand Assembly Arena battle isn''t just about defending; someone has to attack too. How are we going to divide the offensive and defensive roles?" Hai Qing asked.

    She was the eldest here, but she deferred to Feng Yao. And Feng Yao turned to look at Yun Xiao¡­

    "You and the others just need to guard the Parent g. Leave the attacking and conquering to me!" Yun Xiao said.

    "Wow, how bold and manly of you, Lil Yun," Feng Yao teased.

    "Hmph, I can''t be bothered with you," Yun Xiao snorted. Then, he turned to leave, ready to dive into this interesting fray!

    "Wait!" Feng Yao called after him, catching up to whisper, "Are you really going to leave us to guard the g while you attack alone?"

    "Well, I''m worried they won''t be able to hold it if you were by my side," Yun Xiao said.

    "No, I mean, I''m worried that even with me, we can''t hold it," Feng Yao admitted, her face flushed with embarrassment.

    "Impossible," Yun Xiao dismissed the thought.

    "Why are you so confident?" Feng Yao asked, almost envious.

    "Just do your job and defend," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "Fine then!" Feng Yao pouted. Then, she looked back at the Star Nexus and realized something, a smile creeping up on her lips. "The Parent g is with me, and you''re setting off with the Child gs. Do you know what this means?"

    "What?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "You¡¯re my son!" Feng Yao burst outughing, thoroughly amused by her own joke.

    "Well, Mom. You better hope I don''t end up breaking both arms and needing your help¡­" Yun Xiao said. [Footnote: Reddit Reference]

    Feng Yao¡¯sughter stopped abruptly, turning into a mix of embarrassment and anger. "Pervert¡­!"

    Before she could finish scolding him, Yun Xiao transformed into a blur and soared into the sky on his Sovereign Sword.

    The young man in white took off without looking back, ustomed to wandering alone.

    "Yao Yao!"

    Wan Ji''s seven daughters called out with concern.

    "You know, I think it''s a good n to have the eight of us defending our star in the early stages of the battle. But¡­ I''m not sure about Yun Xiao wandering around like that when he''s our public Star Liege. It''s quite dangerous¡­" Hai Qing said.

    She trusted Feng Yao. However, Yun Xiao''s mysteries often left the elders of the Harmony Divine Pce baffled, and the younger members equally perplexed.

    "Are you worried he''ll get reckless and end up being in? Then, we''ll have even a harder time defending, with the Extreme Yin Star Barrier''s power reduced by two-thirds?" Feng Yao asked, surprisingly unconcerned as she exuded a confident air.

    "Yes... It might be best for him to return and stay hidden," Hai Qing advised.

    Feng Yao didn''t respond directly but shifted the conversation. "By the way, did you say that the more Taiyi Sourcecores our Child gs upy, the stronger our home star''s barrier will be?"

    "Yes!"

    This rule was initially overlooked by the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, but she mentioned it before departing.

    The Extreme Yin Star was their home star. As their Carefree Windy Clouds faction expanded within the Grand Assembly Arena, the Extreme Yin Star Barrier would only grow stronger and be more formidable.

    Such a rule also motivated all parties to strike quickly rather than merely defend, which would have been dull. The more they attacked, the stronger their home star¡¯s defenses became.

    And in a situation where the barriers protecting each star were equally powerful at the start, targeting the weaker forces was the most efficient strategy, preventing premature shes with powerful entities.

    With Hai Qing¡¯s affirmative response, Feng Yao said, "Then we''ll just wait and see."

    "Yao Yao¡­"

    The seven sisters wanted to say more, but they felt a bit helpless in front of Feng Yao''s nonchnt attitude.

    "Sister, it seems that both the Ice Lineage Diva and our mother think highly of that ve. Let¡¯s not panic and focus on defending our home star for now."

    "Alright! Let''s observe and see how things unfold..."

    Nevertheless, the seven sisters couldn''t help but feel uneasy, aware that the other forces of the Heavenly Deity Alliance were already fortifying their positions.

    "What a spot!" Feng Yao''s delightedugh suddenly rang out. She had found a secluded spot near the Star Nexus, atop a peak where the raging blizzard swirled, masking any trace of her presence.

    The tall, devilish maiden then took out her Heaven Devourer Bow, set it up on the ground, and prepared herself, assuming the role of a stealthy archery goddess.

    With great enthusiasm, Feng Yao waved and called out, "Hey, I''m gonna be relying on the seven of you to protect me at the vanguard! Don''t worry! I, the top archer of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, shall provide powerful support and lead the charge from the back!"

 Chapter 854: Red Wedding-esque

    "zing Yang Star." Yun Xiao emerged from the cold embrace of the Extreme Yin Star, his Sovereign Sword slicing through the void with furious speed.

    It wasn''t long before he approached a crimson star, radiating heat that seemed to scorch the very heavens. The Extreme Yin Star was icy, but this zing Yang Star burned with an intensity that was near unbearable¡ªa stark contrast of chilling frost and searing me.

    In the Samsara Gxy, the zing Yang Sect was closest to the Harmony Divine Pce, though the distance in reality stretched far greater than at present.

    In terms of scale, the influence of the zing Yang Sect was roughly half that of the Harmony Divine Pce. But here, due to the rules and shadowy dealings, the zing Yang Sect had grown formidable, deemed by the outside world to rank among the top twenty in the Grand Assembly Arena.

    Among the 555 celestial sects within the Heavenly Deity Ster River, such a standing marked the zing Yang Sect as among the elite.

    Typically, peak sects such as these, when in such proximity, would tacitly agree to avoid direct conflict, instead preying on the weaker factions.

    "In years past, the zing Yang Star and the Extreme Yin Star kept to themselves..." Yun Xiao mused, a coldugh escaping him before he propelled himself with his sword toward the fiery heart of the zing Yang Star.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Within the zing Yang Star, the core of this star was a cauldron of magma, where boiling bubbles of fire swept across thend and me tornadoes danced wildly in a spectacle akin to a fiery hell.Yet, in this inferno, the gathered celestial prodigies were unaffected, theirplexions rosy and demeanor as serene as a gentle breeze, standing around the core.

    Among them, the most notable were the young scion of the zing Yang Sect, Yang Yang, and the granddaughter of the Great Elder, Liu Liu.

    The two stood hand in hand in the midst of the mes, their eyes locked in a tender gaze.

    "Congrattions, Brother Yang, and Sister Liu."

    Just moments ago, as the Parent g descended, Yang Yang seized the moment to propose to Liu Liu amidst the mes¡ªa spectacle of romance.

    This gesture instantly made them the center of attention in the Million Starlight Pce, igniting countless cheers from the countless millions of onlookers who witnessed the event.

    The sight nearly overwhelmed Liu Liu, her orange locks framing a face flushed with emotion, as she teetered on the brink of fainting from sheer joy.

    Amidst a resounding <em>I do</em>, the atmosphere reached its zenith, and blessings rained down from the Million Starlight Pce, showering the newly betrothed couple.

    At this moment, the Sect Leader of the zing Yang Sect, Yang Qingtian, basked in unparalleled glory.

    It was then that Yang Yang, as the Star Liege, inscribed the words <em>Love of Yang and Liu</em> upon the zing Yang Parent g¡ªdering the name of theirbined power.

    Yang and Liu, like wood to fire, their love ignited a ze so fierce it could burn the gods themselves!

    Yang Yang''s bold warmth and Liu Liu''s graceful beauty left asting impression on the friends of the Samsara Gxy.

    "Liu Liu..." Yang Yang, his fiery red hair a striking contrast, held the slender-waisted girl close. His eyes burned with passion while she, shyly nestled in his embrace, seemed on the verge of melting away like ice before me.

    The two were as fire born from wood, and were it not for the public eye, they might have trulybusted.

    "Brother Yang, stop, stop, we are in the Grand Assembly Arena!" Liu Liu gently scolded.

    "Right! Brothers, sorry for the dy. ording to n, we prepare for battle! This time, the zing Yang Sect will breach the top twenty and make history! Let us elevate our n''s glory!" Yang Yangughed heartily and dered.

    As his words faded, the crowd responded with fervor, their spirits zing.

    In this moment of passion, the zing Yang Star Barrier roared to life, trembling with the sound of a fire rm.

    "Our star is being attacked!?"

    The disciples of the zing Yang Sect scrambled amidst a storm of mes.

    The Grand Assembly Arena battle had just begun! Off the back of an engagement, it was time for love and celebration, not war just yet! More importantly, the zing Yang Sect were big fish in this celestial pond!

    Even the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce wouldn''t start the game by attempting to swallow such big fish, wasting time!

    In the history of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, the zing Yang Sect had never been attacked at the start.

    Both Yang Yang and Liu Liu''s faces showed a multitude of expressions.

    Below, a youth with orange hair stood out, his demeanor and poise much like Liu Liu''s, a striking and elegant figure.

    He was Liu Li, also a disciple of the zing Yang Sect and the esteemed grandson of the Great Elder.

    Seeing the chaos, he chuckled coldly and said to Yang Yang and Liu Liu, "Sister, brother-inw, it seems some blind dog hase to ruin your special moment."

    "Whoever dares to challenge us in public, behead them and sacrifice their blood to the Parent g!" Yang Yang dered coldly.

    In such a splendid moment, the mood was abruptly spoiled, naturally causing displeasure.

    Upon hearing themand, the more than 40 disciples of the zing Yang Sect gathered here were roused, their eyes gleaming with a bloodthirsty light.

    In the Grand Assembly Arena battle, killing usually had no benefit; it could offend others and wasn''t worth the political cost.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yang Yang''s decision to kill demonstrated his daring spirit!

    "Kill!"

    With a thunderous cry, the prodigious talents of the zing Yang Sect ascended, racing towards the location indicated by the celestial array¡¯s reaction.

    <em>VROOOOM! </em>Just then, a piercing sword light flew faster than the raging fire tornadoes of the zing Yang Star Barrier, charging directly in front of everyone!

    The mes parted, and there, a youth in white rode his sword through the air, his divine countenance unmatched, making a stunning entrance.

    "Who is this?"

    The over 40 disciples of the zing Yang Sect had never dreamed that the oneing to challenge them, even before the battle formally began, would be alone.

    And they didn''t recognize him!

    "Any response from other parts of the barrier?" Yang Yang asked with a cold gaze.

    "None," Liu Liu paused, "And sneaking in elsewhere wouldn''t make sense. This is the shortest route to the Star Nexus."

    The Star Barrier covered the entire Taiyi Sourcecore!

    "Does anyone recognize this fool?" Liu Li asked, fluttering his folding fan.

    After a brief silence, someone excitedly shouted, "Brother Yang! He''s that ve from the Extreme Yin Star. I saw him earlier today when I was enjoying the spectacle!"

    "Is he the one rumored to have pierced through the 9-Star prodigy with his finger?" Liu Li''s eyes widened with intrigue.

    "That''s him!"

    "He looks quite distinctive!"

    Suddenly, they were all thrilled, as if watching a monkey, their faces wearing smirks and mocking smiles.

    "That ve..."

    Yang Yang and Liu Liu exchanged a nce. They had thought there would be some grand drama, but it seemed a fool had stumbled into the tiger''s den...

    "Liu Li, take him down quickly; don''t let the barrier finish him off," Liu Liu said coldly, watching Yun Xiao with a look of disgust.

    She recognized that, despite his nauseating presence, he was still a figure of interest. Handing him over to the Young Dragon Lord would surely be a pleasing gift.

    "Understood, Sister!" Liu Li, fanning himself and smiling broadly, soared into the sky and pressed towards Yun Xiao.

    He was the third strongest there, a twenty-something Early Fourth Baptism Realm prodigy, renowned throughout the Heavenly Deity Ster River. At this Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, he might be a supporting character, but in ten years, he was destined to lead the zing Yang Sect!

    "Hey little eunuch, awake yet?" Liu Li called out with a wave and a chuckle, his tone patronizing as if soothing a small animal.

    The youth in white did not respond, merely watching calmly as Liu Li drew closer.

    "No words? What''s wrong, haven''t awakened your intellect, can''t understand human speech?" Liu Liughed joyously.

    Yun Xiao nced at him, then at Yang Yang, Liu Liu, and the other mocking disciples of the zing Yang Sect.

    "Alright, I''ll start with you as my appetizer." Yun Xiao dered.

    "Pfft!" Liu Li couldn''t contain himself,ughing uproariously mid-air, bending forward and back with mirth. "Eunuch, eunuch... Akh!"

    But then, his vision warped, and he was suddenly looking at his own body. His head, held by a hand, swung in the air, his face stillughing, though his neck dripped blood profusely.

    His head turned, and finally, he saw who held it¡ªit was that ve!

    Yun Xiao looked at him coldly, his gaze akin to observing a ridiculous ant.

    Tough so carelessly close to a foe like Yun Xiao was pure folly¡ªa disregard for one''s own head.

    His head was in Yun Xiao''s hand, while his body had already fallen into the magma below, likely charred to ash by now.

    "I just heard, you wanted to sacrifice blood to your g, to celebrate your love? Let me help."

    Yun Xiao nced at the stunned Yang Yang, Liu Liu, and others. Then, holding Liu Li''s head, he aimed it at the zing Parent g below.

    <em>POP! </em>He cracked the head open like a coconut, and red and white matter poured down onto the g, a grisly tribute to their engagement.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 856: Let Them Stink!

    "It''s impossible! The zing Yang Star Barrier must be malfunctioning!¡±

    "There should be a view from the Million Starlight Pce; someone wille to fix it soon!"

    "But, but... people are injured, people are dead!¡±

    Their faces were charred, their spirits shattered, some even crying out.

    From the bravado of moments ago to being as wretched as a drowned rat, it hadn¡¯t been even a quarter of an hour.

    "Brother Yang, what on earth is going on?"

    Two Samsara Disciples gathered around Yang Yang, their voices trembling as they asked.

    The zing Yang Star Barrier had attacked Yun Xiao for ages without subduing him, but then it burst forth with such might, devastating their entire party!

    "It must be a malfunction with the barrier¡­¡± Liu Liu muttered hoarsely, still stuck in a daze."The Grand Assembly Arena is prepared meticulously! Everyone''s Taiyi Sourcecores start out the same! No barrier''s power would behave like this, much less surge with so much power!" Yang Yang suddenly eximed harshly.

    He knew better than anyone; the might of the Extreme Yang Star Barrier had just tripled, as if the power of the entire formation had been siphoned and unleashed all at once.

    But normally, to protect the entirety of the star, the barriers were not meant to focus and unleash power in one spot; their protection was meant to be evenly distributed!

    The more details he knew, the more Yang Yang found this situation inconceivable.

    He suddenly looked up, staring intently at Yun Xiao.

    That ve, still hovering in the air, wore a blood-chilling smile that killed without spilling blood.

    His demeanor was not of a maning to die but to y a game, to toy with them all!

    ¡°Did you tamper with the zing Yang Star Barrier? Do you realize, such actions are against the rules, and could get your Harmony Divine Pce kicked out?¡± Yang Yang ground out the question.

    His manner of asking made those around him crumble even more, bewildered at this ve they had once looked down upon.

    From that moment, Yun Xiao¡¯s smile started to make their skin crawl...

    ¡°Since the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects began, the Star Barriers have all been the same, right? If I have the capability to control them, how is that against the rules? Which rule did I vite? Is it written in the details?¡± Yun Xiao countered.

    With that, the truth was all but confirmed.

    Suddenly, the whole of the zing Yang Star Barrier¡¯s atmosphere shifted dramatically. All the storms of fury converged again around him alone, as if hemanded 100 raging dragons, overlooking this group before him.

    Once Yun Xiao seized control of the zing Yang Star Barrier, the disciples within their own domain suddenly became outsiders!

    The method was simple. It was the fifth form of the Prison Warden Sigil, Formation God.

    ¡°These Star Barriers in the Grand Assembly Arena, designed to adapt the Parent gs at any moment,y the Star Nexuses bare before me. Others struggle toprehend the Star Nexuses in short order, but with Formation God, I can control them in an instant.¡±

    Yun Xiao had discovered this during his time on the Extreme Yin Star, even giving it a trial then.

    On the Extreme Yin Star, with the Extreme Yin Star Barrier under hismand, it shifted from a defensive posture to an offensive one.

    Here, it was a direct reversal of roles!

    Yun Xiao went to the Taiyi Sourcecore, taking charge as if he owned the ce, his own formation striking decisively.

    Now, with hundreds of fire dragons roaring by his side, his divine might further validated everything he had imed.

    "You spineless coward! Revel in your moment now, for a specialist will soone to capture and eliminate you!" Yang Yang, his spirit tearing, cursed venomously.

    ¡°What joy will there be for you if that happens? You won¡¯t get your revenge,¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    Yang Yang was left speechless, infuriated to his core.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, he was right. Back in the MIllion Starlight Pce, the ten revered seats of the Heavenly Deity Alliance were now in utter chaos.

    Elders and powerhouses from all sides wore grave expressions, debating incessantly.

    ¡°This ve¡¯s Life Sigil has special formation-controlling capabilities! He exploited a loophole!

    ¡°ording to the rules of the Grand Assembly Arena, the Star Barriers are meant to protect its owners. Here, this ve has turned them into his own weapon, upending their purpose, which is naturally against the rules! Severe penalties are a must!¡±

    The head of the zing Yang Sect, Yang Qingtian, having lost a prodigy and now witnessing such an unbelievable event, was naturally livid. He stood up and made an appeal to the ten revered seats of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    ¡°The Grand Assembly Arena tests themand and battle prowess of various young talents. In a real battlefield, celestial formations that can be easily controlled do not exist; so, this eunuch¡¯s actions truly disrupt the fairness of the assembly.¡±

    The head of Wind Pool Valley, Chi Wushuang, with a sharp glint in her eyes, nced up at the lone Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen above and coldly sneered.

    ¡°I wondered why the Harmony Divine Pce, revered in the Heavenly Deity Alliance, would stoop to send a lowly ve to fight. It turns out there was such a clever use after all! It seems you all, in your eagerness to rank among the top ten, have cast aside fairness and even your dignity.¡±

    Their leading attacks indeed sparked a wave of outcry, with voices of unfairness rising everywhere, stirring up widespread indignation.

    ¡°A member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, with its talents withered, can only rely on an incapable ve resorting to cunning means. How shameful and indeed unfair!¡± The head of the Thunder Devil Sect, Lei Zhenyuan, was unforgiving, his scornfulughter fueling many mes of anger.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor said nothing, but those stirring trouble were his diehard followers, clearly reflecting his stance.

    At the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s side, people remained silent for the moment.

    All eyes were on the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen...

    In this moment, the pressure on her was immense, like the weight of a myriad mountains, or even as if the entire starry sky pressed down upon her!

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen took a deep breath. "So, this was why my older sister highly rmended this ve. Indeed, there was a profound reason..."

    Initially, she could not see any hope. But now, she felt a glimmer of hope stirring within her!

    With that, a fierce fire ignited in her heart, emboldening her to lift her head and face the thousands of cold stares. She pulled out a book, proiming loudly, "Talk is cheap. All I know is that after scouring this book of battle regtions in my hands, there''s not a single line stating that controlling a celestial formation is forbidden!

    "These regtions were left by the ancestors, and the Assembly of Myriad Sects has already begun. If anyone intends to disrespect and overwrite our ancestral rules, they should stand forth themselves, instead of letting the dogs bark chaotically!"

    She knew that the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm had no way back. So, rather thanpromising, it was better to fight with all her might, showing the spirit and resolve of the Harmony Divine Pce and confronting everything head-on!

    Certainly, there would be those who disagreed and others who would kick her while she was down. But as she stood there, representing the honor of the Harmony Divine Pce, no one could bow her spine or make her lower her head, not supporting her own representatives!

    She knew that speaking out might drag the reputation of the Harmony Divine Pce into a deep abyss. But it no longer mattered. It hadn¡¯t been great to begin with!

    The Second Founder had started the practice of celestial very. Although it had been reduced greatly in recent years, their reputation had already soured. And the chronic issues of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were difficult to resolve.

    If so, why not gamble for a chance to break into the top ten? If that failed, then the only hope was to produce a true Boundless Immortal!

    With two paths still open, what was there to fear?

    Holding the book of battle regtions, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen stood resolute and fearless.

    Her words indeed stirred up a tempest, with many of the lesser powers decrying the injustice.

    Most of these factions had already aligned themselves with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm...

    As the situation teetered on the brink of chaos, no one else among the ten members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance spoke against the Harmony Divine Pce. That''s when the Golden Dragon Emperor suddenly said to Yang Qingtian, "It''s time to let it go."

    "Let it go?" Yang Qingtian was taken aback.

    "What else?" The Golden Dragon Emperor gave a cold smile. "A ve gaining a small advantage through a formation¡ªwhat good does that do? The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen has already tarnished the Harmony Divine Pce¡¯s reputation for this petty gain, sparking universal outrage. Naturally, we should let them continue to hold this advantage, to further sully their name."

    Yang Qingtian chuckled in realization. "That''s brilliant!"

    "These wretched women, stinking to high heaven, everyone''s up in arms against them. Let them stink to the utmost; when they''re finally gone, no one will mourn them..." Chi Wushuang also smirked.

    All of them understood the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s n!

    To obliterate a member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, universal condemnation was the perfect groundwork.

    "Besides¡­" the Golden Dragon Emperor pointed at the zing Yang Star on the Million Starlight Sky Screen and said, "Your son, Yang Yang, is about to obliterate that ve in his fury."

    "Hmm!" Yang Qingtian''s face was a mask of cold fury, his aura murderous.

    Around them, the curses aimed at the Harmony Divine Pce were numerous. Yet, no one from the Heavenly Deity Alliance stepped forward to support them.

    In such times, no one would stand with the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Their silence, too, was meant to let the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm stink...

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen understood all this. But she had no choice but to have faith!

    "Yun Xiao..."

    Her gaze fell on the white-robed youth amidst the mes of fury.

    His eyes, tranquil yet deadly, shone like amp in the darkness.

    "Don¡¯t lose! Survive. With your ability to control the formations, you can swiftly conquer many sects!"

    In her eyes, Yang Yang and Liu Liu had already be a vast chasm before Yun Xiao!

    "Fight on!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Outside the zing Yang Star hovered a figure with white hair and pink eyes. She was a ghostly presence, remaining unseen by the Million Starlight Sky Screen.

    It was Si Ji, the Snow Lineage Diva!

    Yu Ji and Wan Ji stayed behind on the Extreme Yin Star to protect Feng Yao.

    Si Ji was naturally worried about Yun Xiao¡¯s demise! So, she followed alone, watching over everything he did.

    Beheading, the blood sacrifice, and controlling the formation¡ªit was done in one fluid motion!

    This was no timid celestial ve. It was the conduct of a celestial overlord!

    "His control over the Life Sigil shows a profound talent in the art of sigils." Si Ji, an Inscription Immortal herself, understood the intricacies better. "There really is something remarkable about him..."

    Watching the white-robed youth, her feelings became aplex mix, difficult to articte.

    Truth be told, she was somewhat astonished!

    "These two disciples from the zing Yang Sect are not weak." Si Ji watched as the pair, like twin mes, furiously advanced on Yun Xiao. Her heart tightened, and her pretty face frosted over.

    Her fingers danced with snowkes, ready to strike down any who dared threaten him!

    Whoever attacked this celestial ve would face her wrath!

    After all, Yu Ji was the one who insisted they participate in the Grand Assembly Arena battle!

    Si Ji never believed they could make it into the top ten; it was impossible.

    So from the start, she saw only one path. To break through to be a Boundless Immortal, and turn the heavens upside down!

    Amidst the flickering mes, her pink eyes surged with a snowstorm.

    "He might just be a ve, but he''s also the only one who allows me to relieve my pent-up frustrations¡­ Whoever dares touch him will wish they were dead¡­!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 855 - Whats Yours is Mine!

    <h4>Chapter 855 - What''s Yours is Mine!</h4>

    A youth d in white, clutching the severed head of Liu Li, offered a blood sacrifice to the zing Yang Parent g!

    This spectacle, like a ming sword, pierced the eyes of the zing Yang Sect¡¯s prodigious talents!

    The casual smile on the youth¡¯s face contrasted starkly with the twisted, horrified, despairing, and gruesome expression on Liu Li¡¯s head...

    ¡°Ahh, ahh...!¡± Liu Li''s screams grew weaker, his voice fading until, with wide eyes, it abruptly ceased.

    The gifted disciples of the zing Yang Sect watched in disbelief as Yun Xiao swiftly stepped forward, cleanly cracking open Liu Li¡¯s head with one stroke for the blood sacrifice, until Liu Li was utterly dead, and none could react in time!

    After all, the notion of a supreme talent being felled by a mere beast was beyond imagination.

    ¡°Little Li!!¡± Liu Liu, who had just been romantically proposed to, her face aglow with happiness, now split with shock, screaming in heartrending agony, tears streaming down her face.

    She clutched the arm of the man beside her tightly.

    ¡°Damn it!¡± Yang Yang was stunned for a moment, then fell into a furious rage, his anger erupting like a ze, his fiery red hair igniting.

    This was supposed to be the rise of the zing Yang Sect! Yet, one of their top disciples had just been in right off the bat, and at the hands of a man ridiculed as a eunuch!

    It was a devastating blow! Not only Yang Yang, but all the disciples of the zing Yang Sect present were enraged.

    ¡°Kill him!¡±

    ¡°Tear him to pieces!¡±

    ¡°Imprison his spirit, let him be tormented forever, never to transcend!¡±

    These over 40 prodigies, each a prominent figure of the zing Yang Sect, were now brimming with murderous intent, converging on Yun Xiao.

    For a moment, Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial treasures were unleashed, forming a veritable hell.

    On top of that, the zing Yang Star Barrier, which had been attacking Yun Xiao all along, now summoned over a dozen furious fire tornadoes, roaring and charging like a volcanic eruption.

    "Liu Liu, don''t worry. With me here, our brothers, and the zing Yang Star Barrier, this beast will surely die!" Yang Yang grasped her hand, trying tofort her, fearing she was overwhelmed by grief.

    Unexpectedly, Liu Liu shook off his hand, tears streaming down her face, she cried out, "Then what are you waiting for? Help me!"

    With that, she stepped past Yang Yang, summoning her tribtion power, and with a howl, she charged towards Yun Xiao. Her eyes were filled with an ocean of blood and unending murderous intent.

    "Right!" Yang Yang nodded.

    Chided by Liu Liu, his pride was wounded, but he knew it was not her to me. The faulty entirely with this ve! He directed all his fury at Yun Xiao and burst forth, fighting shoulder to shoulder with Liu Liu.

    In an instant, the entire might of the zing Yang Sect, a power that ranked among the top 20 in the Grand Assembly Arena, was unleashed against one man... This scene became the focal point of the Million Starlight Pce!

    The death of Liu Li had already caused an uproar.

    Now, the mor rose again!

    "This ve is finished, trapped in the zing Yang Formation and surrounded."

    "No shit, if he survives, I''ll stand on my head and eat my own dung..."

    <i>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </i>From the outset, the Flying Swords, Life Sigils, and celestial treasures were already bombarding Yun Xiao''s position, the divine might creating explosions and dust, filled with the cacophony of colliding objects.

    "Don''t destroy his spirit!" Yang Yang roared, reminding the other disciples of the zing Yang Sect.

    They momentarily suppressed their rage, hastily withdrawing their killing intent.

    However, when the smoke and fire cleared from that area, not a body was seen, not even a drop of blood.

    "Did he vaporize into dust?"

    This left everyone deeply unsatisfied. Such swift retribution felt as though no revenge had been taken at all, utterlycking satisfaction.

    "Folks..."

    Just as they wallowed in their difort, a cold voice appeared overhead! It was none other than the voice of that ve!

    Yang Yang, Liu Liu, and the others abruptly looked up, only to see the youth in white, his robes fluttering. Despite the onught of the furious zing Yang Star Barrier, he remained untouched by soot.

    His face, cold and disdainful, was an even greater shame to them all.

    Before the zing Yang prodigies could unleash their fury, Yun Xiao seemed annoyed, shaking his head, saying, "Relying on numbers to gang up on me, is that it?"

    "How so? Did Feng Yao and the others note with you?" Yang Yang looked toward the heavens, convinced that this brash fellow wasn''t brave enough to take them on all by himself.

    Yun Xiao paused at the remark, then scoffed, "Why use a butcher''s cleaver to kill a chicken?"

    Such disdain further fueled the rage of his opponents.

    "Die!"

    Unable to tolerate him any longer, relying on their numbers, the zing Yang Sect prodigies charged wildly.

    "Let''s see who''s really outmatched?" Yun Xiaoughed coldly, summoning a violet Life Sigil from his brow.

    Indeed, it was the Prison Warden Sigil!

    "Go." Yun Xiao cast out the Life Sigil. The nine-headed violet dragon descended from the sky, heading toward the zing Yang Star Nexus.

    "What is this?"

    The members of the zing Yang Sect were again taken aback.

    "He thinks he can pull out the Parent g with a Life Sigil? Dream on, you need to physically pull it out..."

    n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    As his opponents sneered, the nine-headed violet dragon had already plunged into the Star Nexus, coiling around the zing Yang Parent g, transforming back into a sigil, and merging with the g!

    "Brother Yang?" Liu Liu furrowed her brows, sensing an ominous premonition.

    "It''s nothing, just smoke and mirrors. If a mere Life Sigil could pull out the Parent g, wouldn''t the elders of the Heavenly Deity Alliance be fools?" Yang Yang shook his head dismissively.

    Meanwhile, the furious disciples of the zing Yang Sect, not even waiting for Yang Yang, continued their assault, charging at Yun Xiao once more.

    And the youth in white, caught in the midst of the crowd, looked up somberly, his eyes zing with rolling fire.

    <i>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </i>The zing Yang Star Barrier roared ferociously, summoning dozens of ming tornadoes¡ªthicker, more numerous, and more chaotic than before.

    "Our zing Yang Star Barrier seems to have grown stronger!"

    "This kid is definitely done for now!"

    Their opponents sneered, reassured by the sight of the numerous ming tornadoes.

    The fastest among them had already reached Yun Xiao, wielding a Palm Sword in a sweeping motion, intending to im Yun Xiao''s head.

    And following that was a barrage of over 100 lethal strikes!

    "<i>Your</i> zing Yang Star Barrier?" Yun Xiao stood with his hands behind his back, easily dodging the sword swipe. As he faced the ensuing chaotic barrage, a slight smile curled at his lips, "Sorry, this is <i>my </i>zing Yang Star Barrier!"

    Suddenly, the dozens of fiery tornadoes around him seemed toe to life. They surged with a ferocity far greater than before, plunging down with a roar!

    The zing Yang Sect disciples initially felt a thrill of victory! But in the next instant, their faces drastically changed, and they cried out in horror...

    "Impossible!"

    The ming tornadoes hadn''t charged at Yun Xiao. Instead, they furiously dove, snapping and wing at the zing Yang Sect prodigies themselves!

    The sudden reversal shocked them to the core.

    To them, the zing Yang Star Barrier was like the walls of their home, a reliable backbone more trustworthy than apanion, powered by the foundational rules of the Grand Assembly Arena!

    How could it attack its own? No one could believe it. This was 1,000 times more unbelievable than Yun Xiao killing Liu Li! Yet, as hard as it was to believe, the catastrophe erupted in the blink of an eye.

    <i>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </i>Unprepared, the zing Yang Sect prodigies were struck unexpectedly by the furious tornadoes.

    Some reacted quickly or were far enough away to defend themselves with celestial techniques and treasures, only getting knocked back with minor injuries.

    Others, too close and too slow to react, were engulfed in magma, battered and burned ck, with limbs torn off.

    Some were even weaker, shredded and burned into pieces by the fiery storm!

    The assault on Yun Xiao was instantly shattered; over 40 zing Yang Sect prodigies, excluding Yang Yang and Liu Liu, were blown away, screaming in terror and utter disarray.

    It struck them like lightning.

    "He can control our zing Yang Star Barrier?"

 Chapter 857 - Great Solar Blaze Body!

    <h4>Chapter 857 - Great Sr ze Body!</h4>

    Death was hardly a deterrent for Si Ji. That''s how intense her desire to be a Boundless Immortal was. She stood on standby just outside the perimeter of the zing Yang Star Barrier, her eyes scrutinizing the battlefield!

    "Surround him!"

    The disciples of the zing Yang Sect, though dealt a major blow by the assault of their own barrier, still had over 20 who could still fight. Their eyes burned with fervor as they closed in once again.

    Even though they were now forced to contend with the assault of the zing Yang Star Barrier, they possessed a certain natural resistance against it. It didn''t matter if the barrier''s power had been strengthened and concentrated.

    However, as enraged as the disciples of the zing Yang Sect were, they didn''t rush in to attack Yun Xiao right away. That was because the two bigshots of their faction were personally entering the fray!

    Yang Yang and Liu Li were the two youngest leaders of the zing Yang Sect. They were the most envied divine couple in the zing Yang Realm! The two were a match made by heaven itself!

    "Great Sr ze Body!"

    Amidst cries of reverence and passionate exmations, Yang Yang¡¯s body erupted into mes. His hair flew about like a torch of crimson fire, his eyes zed like twin suns, his skin glowed red as if he were a demon of me, with fire roaring up to several meters high.

    His body shook like a volcano on the verge of eruption, unbelievably strong to withstand such fiery power.

    Clearly, Yang Yang was a Martial Immortal! This Great Sr ze Body, the strongest martial physique of the zing Yang Realm, naturally possessed the pure, aggressive power of the Yang, radiant and brilliant.

    In his hands, he wielded a zing spear. The celestial weapon pulsed with intense mes that ckened the air around it, trailing dark fiery streaks.

    "That''s the Upper Swallowing Heaven grade Devouring me Void Spear!"

    Again, voices of envy and awe rose from the disciples of the zing Yang Sect.

    Yang Yang, wielding the Devouring me Void Spear, stood before Yun Xiao like a god of war made of me.

    Above his head, the Corona that held the power of four cmities shone brightly, transforming into a burning sun that cast blinding light and intense heat, releasing waves of fire that surged towards Yun Xiao!

    His martial body, celestial weapon, and Corona were all nothing short of perfect.

    Yang Yang was indeed a hopeful candidate to represent the Heavenly Deity Ster River,peting for the pinnacle of talent in the Samsara Gxy!

    Yet, Liu Liu by his side was hardly lesser in stature.

    She wielded an orange Sword Soul curved like a crescent moon that looked exceptionally sharp. Tiny moon-shaped Sword Prisons clung to the crescent, emitting a fierce and scorching aura.

    "It''s the Dragon''s Kiss!"

    The crescent-shaped Dragon''s Kiss Sword Soul sported over 500 Sword Prisons, a number extraordinarily high among the young, far surpassing many self-proimed geniuses.

    This pair, Yang Yang with his potent Martial Immortal powers and Liu Liu with her crescent de Sword Immortal skills, both wielded deadly might. Whenever they disyed their divine prowess, they truly stood out.

    So, whether it was those present on the battlefield or those spectating from afar in the Million Starlight Pce, most heldplete confidence in Yang Yang and Liu Liu.

    After all, in the eyes of the spectators, Yun Xiao was a nobody who merely got lucky by subverting control of the zing Yang Star Barrier.

    "Just keep your eyes on him," Yang Yangmanded. He had long been irritated by Yun Xiao''s dismissive attitude. He didn''t want to wait for the elders to deal with this transgressor.

    Grasping the Devouring me Void spear, he shot through the air and transformed into a fierce streak of fire,unching a vicious attack on Yun Xiao!

    Yang Yang didn¡¯t even want Liu Liu to intervene. After all, as a man and the top genius of the zing Yang Sect, he needed to maintain his dignity.

    The Great Sr ze Body erupted, the Devouring me Void Spear swirling into a fiery vortex, forming a chaotic stream of rage that struck directly at Yun Xiao''s face.

    <i>Martial Emperor''s Heaven Rending Art!</i>

    This celestial martial technique, refined over generations by the ancestors of the zing Yang Sect, employed the spear to stir the heavens. It transformed the wielder into an emperor among Martial Immortals, with unrivaled killing intent, momentum, and devastating lethality!

    Above Yang Yang''s head, his Corona burst forth with a zing light. It shone down on Yun Xiao, engulfing him in a prison of radiance, leaving him only to await his demise.

    With his first strike, Yang Yang aimed to kill, not only to assert his might but to prove himself and bring glory to the zing Yang Sect!

    Under his overwhelming presence, Liu Liu instinctively ceased her attacks to avoid overshadowing her lover.

    "Now that I''m out of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, I can finally stretch my limbs," Yun Xiao remarked with a grin. He faced the blinding brilliance and firestorm with absolute confidence.

    What else could beat the thrill of battle? He had waited for this moment for far too long!

    Beneath the raging fury of the inferno, Yun Xiaoughed freely, his demeanor effortlessly graceful as he flicked his sleeve, his body remaining in ce while his sword intent began to form, elusive and drifting.

    <i>HUM! </i>His Corona transformed into the Primordial Sphere. Backed by the power of the Three Lives Samsara and Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Cmities, it expanded swiftly and pulled Yang Yang and Liu Liu into his domain.

    Yun Xiao might only be in the Second Baptism Realm, but he made up for quantity with quality. Both his Cmity Sources were of the Upper Burying Heaven grade!

    Besides that, the Primordial Sphere could absorb the surrounding power of heaven and earth, which included the energy of the zing Yang Star Barrier! It could also be further amplified by the Boundless Light!

    So, Yun Xiao''sbat power could easily rival that of the Fourth Baptism Realm!

    The light from the Primordial Sphere, with its vast tribtion power, instantly sealed off the opponent''s zing Yang Corona.

    This was a suppression of tribtion power and Corona, shattering the illusions before Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes, allowing him to clearly see Yang Yang¡¯s Devouring me Void Spear.

    The Three Lives Samsara Cmity was profound and enigmatic, hard to fully grasp. Meanwhile, the Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Cmity, being of extreme cold, swept over like ice water thrown onto candle me.

    The Primordial Sphere turned a chilling, dark azure, like a frozen pool, pressing heavily upon Yang Yang. His Great Sr ze Body and all his fiery tribtion power were abruptly overwhelmed and struck down.

    ¡°What!?!¡± Yang Yang eximed in shock.

    He had not anticipated such chilling force from his opponent, which nearly incapacitated him on the spot.

    ¡°A man, yet so chillingly cold, no wonder you''re but a eunuch dog!¡± Yang Yang roared, his mes rising again.

    He still held some advantage in the total amount of tribtion power, enough to resist the Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Cmity momentarily and muster a counterattack.

    However, Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze remained as icy as ever. He merely stabbed forward with his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, which sported over 400 Sword Prisons.

    In that single thrust, the sword moved as if it drew all warmth from the surroundings, creating a deadly cold stream around its de that coalesced into endless sword energy.

    ¡°Go!¡± Yun Xiao''s sword swept forward with a flourish, carrying with it a world of icy clouds and swords. It was like a freezing tide of absolute cold, instantly smothering the ck mes of Yang Yang''s Devouring me Void Spear.

    "Ice Cloud Sword Ender!"

    This incredulous cry actually came from Si Ji, who was nearby and the first to recognize the technique Yun Xiao wielded.

    This was a Burying Heaven grade celestial sword technique from the Ice Lineage of the Harmony Divine Pce!

    Only a Valkyrie Queen of the Ice Lineage could wield such a sword!

    Yun Xiao was a celestial ve, and he was only in the Second Baptism Realm! How did he master it in just a couple of days?

    For the second time, Si JI gawked at him in absolute disbelief.

    n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao stood with an effortless grace, like a true Sword Immortal, his thrust entirely subduing Yang Yang.

    The icy cloud and frigid sword energy of Ice Cloud Sword Ender extinguished Yang Yang''s firepletely, as the tip of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul stabbed directly onto the tip of Devouring me Void Spear.

    <i>KLANG! </i>A piercing, crisp sound echoed.

    In an instant, the chilling surge from Yun Xiao''s sword swept over Yang Yang.

    Yang Yang spat out a mouthful of blood that instantly froze before his face, his body wracked with pain as if he were in the deepest pits of an icy hell. Before he could recover, the brutal icy sword st hit him, freezing him instantly into an ice sculpture!

    "Ughh..." His body stiffened and was flung backward. The forces of the Three Lives Samsara and Deca-Yin Frost Fiend invaded his body through his wounds. For a moment, the pain was almost unbearable, as if even his marrow was frozen solid.

    Most importantly, Yang Yang was defeated and overwhelmed by a ve in a single move!

    This was something he could not ept, even in death.

    Within his frozen prison, Yang Yang''s eyes, once as zing as the sun, were now frozen into orbs of ice.

 Chapter 858 - The Wheel of Karma Turns, What Goes Around Eventually Comes Around!

    <h4>Chapter 858 - The Wheel of Karma Turns, What Goes Around Eventually Comes Around!</h4>

    ¡°You!¡± Yang Yang was in utter disbelief.

    Yun Xiao had frozen him solid with a single stroke of his sword. Now, that three-foot azure de shrank into a Flying Sword!

    ¡°He¡¯s going for the kill!¡± Yang Yang broke out in a cold sweat, trembling all over.

    Fortunately, a crescent Flying Sword shot past Yang Yang¡¯s side. It was none other than the Sword Soul wielded by his beloved!

    ¡°Don¡¯t touch him!¡± Liu Liu''s harsh cry echoed as the peculiar crescent Flying Sword twisted unpredictably, continuously circling and striking toward Yun Xiao with unfathomable movements.

    Just as Yun Xiao transformed his Palm Sword into a Flying Sword, he caught a glimpse of the howling orange crescent and, without a word, casuallyunched a streak of azure light from his hand.

    <i>WHOOSH! </i>That speck of azure light, traveling a narrow path meant for only the nimblest of Flying Swords, seemed to paint a picture mid-air¡ªa vast snowyndscape, where an azure snowke cut across the sky, unfolding into a dream-like array of colors...

    ¡°Soaring Snow Stream!¡± Si Ji, stunned, called out the name of this Flying Sword technique, unmistakably a core sword art of the Harmony Divine Pce.

    It was not just a beautiful name; the picturesque path it traced was equally exquisite.

    With Si Ji¡¯s discerning eye, she saw everything clearly. Be it the Ice Cloud Sword Ender or Soaring Snow Stream, Yun Xiao had executed both techniques with divine finesse, his mastery reaching the pinnacle!

    Normally, this level of proficiency was unattainable without a century of diligent practice!

    Everything happened in a sh, leaving no time for Si Ji to ponder further.

    The Soaring Snow Stream, like a beautiful snowke, traced a simple path, far less unpredictable than the orange crescent. Yet, it precisely met the curved edge of the opposing de head-on!

    <i>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </i>The two Sword Souls collided in the air, emitting a piercing sound. Astonishingly, they didn¡¯t separate upon impact but intertwined like the mating ritual of two birds.

    The azure Flying Sword struck the center of the orange crescent, and then with a flick, twirled it around like a pen on a fingertip!

    The two mighty Sword Souls tangled, hurtling towards each other with reckless abandon.

    ¡°You?!¡± Liu Liu¡¯s body tensed. She exerted her utmost strength to control her Flying Sword. But it was as if a giant beast had mped down on it, and she couldn¡¯t pull it free.

    ¡°Be careful!¡± Liu Liu jolted as a cold sweat broke out. The intertwined Sword Souls were now hurtling towards the frozen Yang Yang.

    At this moment, Yang Yang was frantically summoning his tribtion power, using the mes of the Great Sr ze Body to burn away the frosty tribtion power on his body.

    As the frost shattered off his body, his frustrations found release. But in the next moment, Liu Liu''s scream of terror sent shivers down his spine!

    He looked up sharply, his face breaking into a cold sweat! The azure gleam, dragging the orange crescent, instantaneously swooped in front of him.

    Yang Yang instinctively raised his hands to shield his head. But in that instant, the azure light fiercely flung the orange crescent downwards!

    n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°No!!¡± Liu Liu screamed, tears streaming as she tried to regain control of the orange crescent.

    However, the slick technique of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul was too smooth and powerful. By the time she regained control of the sword, the orange crescent was violently spinning back, crashing into Yang Yang¡¯s groin.

    ¡°GAHHH!¡± Yang Yang''s face turned the color of liver, he let out a heart-wrenching scream. When he turned around in shock, he saw the orange crescent had carried away his one bird and two stones, with blood spraying across the sky!

    He felt a sharp pain, not just physical pain but pain in his heart as well.

    ¡°No! No... Nonono...!¡± Yang Yang''s face twisted in agony, reaching down, finding nothing but blood and excruciating pain¡ªempty, utterly empty.

    Yun Xiao had calcted the angle too well, shearing everything off cleanly... nothing left.

    ¡°Darling!¡± Liu Liu screamed. She retrieved her sword with one hand, clutching the bloody, fallenrade of her betrothed with the other.

    Standing dumbfounded in the distance, she realized from the blood on Yang Yang''s trousers to what was in her hand.

    ¡°KYAAAAH!" With a piercing scream, Liu Liu threw her Sword Soul away. The sword remained suspended in midair, while its <i>intimate </i>partner dropped into the magma below, bursting into mes and evaporating instantly...

    ¡°No!¡± Yang Yang screamed helplessly, forced to watch as his treasures turned to ash. He spat out a mouthful of ck blood and staggered backward, dizzy and nearly fainting.

    As he grappled with despair and agony, he continued to vomit blood, his body numbing as if the pain of his loss was 1,000 times worse than death itself. No one could understand the catastrophe he was enduring...

    Around him, the twenty-odd disciples of the zing Yang Sect stood petrified, eyes wide and teeth chattering.

    ¡°Liu Liu¡¯s curved sword... it took away Yang Yang¡¯s... it took <i>it</i> away...¡±

    ¡°This, this, this...¡±

    They were struck as if by lightning, nearly breaking into tears themselves.

    They all realized what a joke this was for the zing Yang Sect, which had always mocked others as eunuchs, only for one of their own, right after a romantic proposal, to have his manhood sheared off by his woman¡¯s hand.

    Although everyone knew it was Yun Xiao¡¯s doing, there was no denying that the curved de that did the deed was Liu Liu¡¯s own Sword Soul.

    She had unwittingly destroyed the most precious part of her own future husband, and at a moment when there might have been a chance to salvage something, she had thrown it away, severing her man''s roots forever...

    In front of the entire Samsara Gxy, their high-profile disy of affection now resulted in a spectacle that left the other disciples of the zing Yang Sect feeling so humiliated they wanted to die.

    ¡°Brother Yang, ah, Brother Yang...¡±

    They didn¡¯t know what to do, numbly approaching Yang Yang.

    ¡°Go away! Go away! All of you, go away!¡± Yang Yang wailed, iling his limbs and his hair disheveled, looking like a beggar,pletely losing his earlier vigor and virility, his voice softening.

    And Liu Liu, as if her soul was lost, floated in midair, watching her man¡¯s miserable, defeated state¡ªworse than death itself¡ªand she too started crying...

    ¡°To mock the ws of others may be satisfying. But always remember the wheel of karma turns, and what goes aroundes around. When the same misfortune befalls you, you¡¯ll realize that life demandspassion, to empathize and do unto others as you would have done unto you, for good deeds bring good karma.¡±

    This calm voice arose from below.

    Hearing Yun Xiao''s words, the disciples of the zing Yang Sect felt even greater shame. Their faces burned with humiliation; they had once freely mocked others as eunuchs and ves. And now, with Yang Yang reduced to the status they derided, their throats felt choked by their own scorn, leaving them speechless with bitterness.

    Of course, while Yun Xiao spoke like this, he was not truly speaking from his personal experience, merely reflecting. With that, he reached out and pulled up the zing Yang Parent g.

    The disciples of the zing Yang Sect were mentally shattered, unable to regain theirposure. By the time they realized it, Yun Xiao had already descended and uprooted their foundation!

    ¡°Huh...?¡±

    By the time they reacted, it was toote.

    The g Yun Xiao held was their Pledge of Allegiance.

    ¡°Stop...¡±

    Before they could react, Yun Xiao tossed an Extreme Yin Child g into the Star Nexus. The small sphere plummeted into the nexus and suddenly transformed into an ice-blue g!

    From that moment, the entire celestial formation of the zing Yang Star underwent a revolutionary change. All the mes and storms were transformed into a tide of ice and snow. The red star visibly turned ice blue, freezing cold!

    The zing Yang Star had been conquered and upied!

    ¡°Brother Yang...¡±

    The disciples of the zing Yang Sect nearly vomited blood at this sight. They stood frozen, like zombies.

    A supposed ve from the Harmony Divine Pce had stepped on their faces and taken over the territory of the zing Yang Star, forcing them to bow down... This was a public humiliation of the highest order, and they all knew it. Their hearts felt numb.

    ¡°I will kill you!¡± Yang Yang, having faced one blow after another, snapped. His mind shattered, he charged towards Yun Xiao like a madman.

    "Stop him!" Liu Liu cried out in rm.

    She, along with the other disciples of the zing Yang Sect, finally managed to restrain Yang Yang just as he reached Yun Xiao, his fury unchecked.

    "Die! Die!" Yang Yang struggled, his face contorting as he screamed at Yun Xiao.

    "Rx, I won''t let you die," Yun Xiao, holding the zing Yang Parent g, patted Yang Yang''s face and chuckled, "From now on, we''re one and the same. Adjust your mindset, strive to conquer stars, and add glory to my carefree journey."

    "In your dreams! Never!" Tears mixed with blood streamed down Yang Yang''s face.

    "Haha." Yun Xiao pinched Yang Yang''s cheek, shaping his mouth into a circle. "Now that you''re purified of worldly desires, less love, more action. The glory of my Extreme Yin Star depends on you. Put some spirit into it, brother."

    Ignoring Yang Yang''s heart-wrenching screams and sobs, Yun Xiao swaggered away.

    "Brother Yang, Brother Yang, it''s okay. We lost the Parent g, but it won''t stop us from making the top 20..." a disciple of the zing Yang Sect said nervously.

    "Go away! Go away! Ahh..." Yang Yang crouched on the ground, clutching his groin, then copsed into Liu Liu''s arms, utterly deste.

    "Darling, I, I..." Liu Liu was inconsble, utterly helpless.

    Seeing her, Yang Yang''s gaze drifted downward to her wless skin, her delicate figure, and the secrets he once thought were within easy reach¡ªnow seemed as distant as the heavens, and tears welled up in his eyes.

    "Ah!" Yang Yang pushed Liu Liu away and, clutching his head, fainted from his sobbing.

    Even here, the situation was so intense; one could only imagine how rowdy things had gotten in the MIllion Starlight Pce...

    Even Si Ji, observing all of Yun Xiao''s ruthless actions, looked on with a puzzled expression.

    "This kid is ferociously resolute at heart; no wonder he even dares..." The white-haired beauty with pink eyes watched Yun Xiao''s departing figure, somewhat amused yet bewildered.

    She was now somewhat eager to see what this youth would do next.

    And Yun Xiao, no matter how loudly the zing Yang Star wailed, did not look back.

    After all, he was in a hurry, rushing towards his next target.

    Just then, Feng Yao contacted him through the Mortal Dust Devil Seed. "You need toe back fast; we''re surrounded and can''t hold on!"

 Chapter 860: Slay, Queen!

    Wind Pool Valley and the Harmony Divine Pce, defined by fundamentally opposing philosophies, shed fiercely.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    As for thends of the Thunder Devil Sect, the Thunder Devils were ruthless and bloodthirsty, putting them at perpetual odds with the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Against this historical backdrop, the prodigies of these two great sects joined forces to attack the Extreme Yin Star, with Hai Qing and her six sisters, naturally fierce in battle!

    "These two celestial sects have each left half their forces to protect the Parent gs of their home stars. So, this attacking force here is about equal in strength to one sect.

    "Even though they outnumber us, they have roughly the same number of Samsara Disciples as us. The rest are all Taiji Disciples. Our Extreme Yin Star Barrier has been enhanced twice already. There''s no need to be afraid in battle!" Hai Qing exined everything clearly to her sisters.

    All seven sisters were the top elites of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. The heritage of the Heavenly Deity Alliance was with them. They were all in the Fourth Baptism Realm, joined by Feng Yao whosebat prowess matched theirs. They could easily make use of the advantages of the defender!

    "They''re here!"

    The 40 assants broke through the icy tempest of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier with Life Sigils, celestial weapons, and physical bodies, heading directly for the Star Nexus.

    Hai Qing, Hai Ying, and the other sisters quickly formed a defensive line above Feng Yao and the Star Nexus.The seven sisters were all Martial Immortals with the potential of 7-Star Valkyrie Queens. Despite their delicate appearances, their Sea Lineage Physiques were as vast and resilient as the ocean, making them veritable humanoid tanks!

    Anchors, massive banners, iron balls, oars, and battle spears¡ªall imbued with the power of the ocean¡ªshone brightly in their hands. Each celestial weapon wasrge and majestic with ferocious might.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>The power of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier erupted, making the seven of them seem like sea goddesses surrounded by the frozen sea. They controlled the winds and waves, sweeping across heaven and earth, each more imposing than thest.

    "Wow, they''re really going all out!" Feng Yao felt a stir within as she witnessed the scene.

    The talents of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm were truly formidable. If they weren''t being colluded against, there was no doubt they could have achieved great things on their own.

    At that moment, a thought struck Feng Yao¡¯s mind. <em>Who needs Yun Xiao!</em>

    "Sisters, let''s do this!"

    With a loud shout from Feng Yao, her voice thundered up to the heavens, crashing into the ears of the invaders.

    "Acting all innocent, these women."

    Among the two invading forces, the one on the left was led by Wind Pool Valley''s genius, Chi Shenshen. She was a green-robed woman, who wielded a Life Sigil with over 500 Rune Prisons. She transformed it into a leaf fan and swept it across. The blizzard before her dispersed, revealing a wind tunnel leading directly to the Star Nexus. ???

    At the end of the wind tunnel stood Wan Ji''s seven daughters. When the two parties met gazes, their eyes turned particrly bloodshot upon recognizing each other.

    "Forget Feng Yao, let''s finish these seven women first!" Chi Shenshen called out venomously. She led the 20 disciples of her Wind Pool Valley, sweeping down in a tempestuous assault.

    "Chi Shenshen!" Hai Qing frowned at the sight of the green-robed woman, feeling the surge of old grievances.

    In recent years, as the Harmony Divine Pce fell from grace, many second-rate sects had dared to trample over them, stirring numerous feuds.

    Seeing the brashness of Wind Pool Valley''s disciples, the wrath of the seven sisters red. They hefted their celestial weapons and charged furiously into battle!

    The ensuing sh was a frontal collision of wind against sea!

    But in that moment, a crimson light suddenly shot past Hai Qing¡¯s ear, startling her into a cold sweat. If not for her unconditional trust in Feng Yao, she might have thought this girl was sneak attacking her!

    The ferocity of that arrow was something Hai Qing felt personally. Her eyes widened as she saw the crimson light tear through the green storm, abruptly appearing before a female disciple of Wind Pool Valley!

    The disciple screamed, desperately trying to defend herself.

    <em>THWACK! </em>The crimson light pierced through both her palms and head, embedding itself into the thigh of a man behind her. Her face showed shock, her forehead spattered with blood, and she fell dead.

    "Yao Yao..."

    Even Hai Qing and the others were shocked by the scene, halting abruptly and turning back to stare at Feng Yao, lurking in the shadows.

    Feng Yao, taken aback for a moment, shouted fiercely, "What are you gawking for? Keep fighting! This is war! Don''t be hypocrites; anyone who dares to attack the Extreme Yin Star deserves death!"

    Hai Qing and the others stood silent, dumbfounded.

    "Only the most ruthless measures can silence the barking dogs! Beat the dogs first! The Southern Divine Dragon Realm isn''t here. Since the owner hasn''t arrived yet, let''s put down their hunting hounds first!" Feng Yao eximed, her blood boiling with fervor.

    Clearly, she had learned this from a certain someone, as she hadn¡¯t been so aggressive or decisive before.

    "Crude words, but true!" Hai Qing''s eyes sparkled, and her blood also boiled. She couldn''t help but roar, "Sisters, let¡¯s y them!"

    "y!"

    Suddenly, a simted game of war had escted into an epic battle of defending their homnd.

    Witnessing a fellow Samsara Disciple killed by Feng Yao''s arrow, Chi Shenshen was leftpletely stunned.

    Wind Pool Valley''s force had initially been tasked with securing the area. But upon hearing that the zing Yang Star had been conquered, they quickly moved tounch a counter-offensive.

    However, it turned out that most of the Harmony Divine Pce''s disciples were still here, fiercely guarding their home star!

    Chi Shenshen, overwhelmed with anger, shouted sharply, "Lei Ting, you''re the strongest, suppress Feng Yao!"

    Aware of the terrifying potential of Feng Yao¡¯s celestial weapon, she also feared the sudden cold arrows.

    "Understood." Lei Ting''s voice rumbled like thunder amidst the blizzard.

    One after another, the disciples of the Thunder Devil Sect descended. Their bodies were wrapped in serpentine lightning, making them resemble true devils of thunder.

    "Attack!"

    The Thunder Devils took the vanguard while Wind Pool Valley''s Sword and Inscription Immortals followed closely behind. They broke through the Extreme Yin Star Barrier and closed in on the seven celestial maidens of the Sea Lineage.

    Suddenly, the pressure on Hai Qing and her sisters became immense!

    The Thunder Devils could match their physical prowess and also cast celestial techniques. Meanwhile, the Sword and Inscription Immortals were even more difficult to guard against in the chaos of the battle!

    Fortunately Feng Yao had truly assumed the role of a powerful archer. Before the sides even came into direct contact, her Heaven Devourer Arrows soared into the sky repeatedly!

    She was smart; once the enemy was on guard, she avoided attacking the Samsara Disciples and specifically targeted the weaker Taiji Disciples in the Third Baptism Realm.

    She hit her target with every shot! Each arrow drew blood, piercing souls with every strike!

    Under such circumstances, the Taiji Disciples were terrified, their faces pale. Although they continued the assault, they mostly hid behind the Samsara Disciples, their momentum significantly weakened.

    At this rate, Feng Yao alone could incapacitate all their Taiji Disciples!

    Seeing this, Chi Shenshen grew both furious and anxious, barking out, "Lei Ting, haven¡¯t you found her yet?!"

    Even the best sniper, after firing so many arrows, would reveal their position!

    "I¡¯ve found her!" A thunderous roar erupted.

    In the midst of the raging blizzard, Feng Yao stood with one foot on a rock, her bow drawn, arrow nocked, and her posture magnificent as she aimed at a Thunder Devil above her.

    Suddenly, a lethal threat loomed from behind!

    "Heh." Unfazed, Feng Yao scoffed coldly, swiftly turned around, and the Heaven Devourer Arrow screamed through the air.

    <em>BOOM! </em>A Thunder Devil materialized behind Feng Yao. Wrapped in violet serpentine lightning, he was nearly as tall as Yun Xiao and eerily human in appearance.

    He blocked the arrow with a b-like thunder shield. Then, he summoned a violet lightning storm around him and charged at her.

    "You think I only rely on sneak attacks?" Feng Yao cursed. Her Corona transformed into a Sanguine Spirit Dragon that instantly bit into Lei Ting.

    She vanished in a blink, and in the next moment, her long legs, swirling with a crimson torrential sea, kicked straight towards Lei Ting¡¯s face.

    This move, derived from the Martial Immortal techniques of the Sea Lineage, was called the Sea Dragon Quake.

    However, it morphed into something fiercer under Feng Yao''s interpretation. Her leg kicked up a furious tidal wave that turned into a crimson dragon, with her foot as its head.

    Backed by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood and her tribtion power, it unleashed a frightening tremor!

    "What!?" Lei Ting didn''t expect such a ferocious attack. He had underestimated Feng Yao, thinking shecked physical prowess. Before him was no frail woman, but a fearsome female tyrant!

    He quickly raised his thunder shield, summoning more lightning to defend against her kick.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Lei Ting''s shield was mmed back into him. The tremendous force sent him flying almost 1,000 meters, crashing on the surface of the Extreme Yin Star and tumbling in the snow.

    His mind was inplete disarray. He thought he was facing a frail archer, lured into closebat only to discover that she was a melee specialist! He felt as if he''d been scammed!

    Lei Ting had no idea that Feng Yao actually despised fighting in close quarters because it made her seem too brutish, which she felt only tarnished her image. She preferred the role of an archer, or maybe casting spells from afar, to maintain a more maiden-like appearance.

    "Come on! What kind of Thunder Devil are you, Pure Thunder Seed, pah!" Feng Yao, enraged, stamped her foot on the ground, causing the Extreme Yin Star itself to quake.

    A vast chasm erupted, surging towards Lei Ting and sting him into the sky!

    Such was the body forged from Mortal Dust Devil Blood! Although it wasn¡¯t on par with the Divine Destion Physique, it was certainly stronger than that of ordinary Martial Immortals and devils.

    Her ferocity not only caused Lei Ting to furrow his brow under the immense pressure but also caught the eye of Chi Shenshen and the others above.

    They had intended to quickly ovee their foes to prevent Yun Xiao from snatching another star!

    Now, everything indicated that taking down the Extreme Yin Star wouldn¡¯t be easy.

    "The key issue is these wretches even made that celestial ve a Star Liege,pletely preventing us from reducing the Star Barrier''s power..."

    Chi Shenshen and Lei Ting gritted their teeth, pushing on despite the challenge.

    Meanwhile, Feng Yao¡¯s fervor grew even more intense. She shouted at the Mortal Dust Devil Seed in her heart, ¡°Forget abouting back; your mother can handle this herself!¡±

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t nning oning back anyway," a nonchnt reply came from the Mortal Dust Devil Seed.

    Feng Yao was furious! Wasn¡¯t he supposed toe back? Why did he trick her?

    "Where did you go then?" she asked, biting her lip.

    ¡°Mhm¡­ I just reached the Thunder Punisher Star, can¡¯t talk now, busy.¡±<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 862: All The Way Through?

    Countless eyes witnessed that moment.

    Given Yun Xiao''s strength in defeating Yang Yang and Liu Liu, it wasn''t surprising that he could y the 20 Thunder Devils, especially with the Thunder Punisher Star Barrier aiding him.

    But Yun Xiao had aplished it with the grace of a snowboarder, carefree between heaven and earth, turning killing into an art¡ªa spectacle to behold. As he left the Thunder Punisher Star with hands sped behind his back, many felt a sudden chill crawl up their spines.

    A celestial ve, who was made out to be aughingstock, had done more than just prove them wrong.

    From the moment Yun Xiao struck, even though his opponents weren''t exceptionally strong, his killing skills,bat style, personal demeanor, and effortless details all pointed to one conclusion. The stronger the observer, the deeper their frown.

    It was an innate sense of supremacy, unhidden and unabashed. Even though Yun Xiao''s cultivation seemed infantile in the eyes of the elders, the slight smile of this youth was enough to send a cold shiver through the hearts of the keen.

    Si Ji had watched this disy up close. As Yun Xiao passed her, he even nced her way and smiled. Her heart trembled. She had concealed herself so well. Yet, this boy saw her!

    She knew her own strength better than anyone. What was going on here?

    "Yu Ji has the Ice Spirit Eye; she must have seen something I couldn''t. Does this ve truly possess something special?" Si Ji muttered to herself. Then, she shook her head and sighed."He''s indeed beyond handsome. If not for his status as a celestial ve, he''d probably be captivating millions of young girls in the MIllion Starlight Pce right now..."

    No one knew better than Si Ji how striking Yun Xiao was. His beauty seemed to transcend species; even if she were a donkey, she''d find him the epitome of perfection, surpassing gender itself.

    So, sometimes, those strange feelings in her heart were justified. But thebel of <em>celestial ve</em> was like a flynding on a perfect flower, leaving a bitter taste.

    However, Yun Xiao had no idea her heart was in such turmoil. He was studying the Thunder Punisher Parent g.

    After a while, he wrote a sentence on the Parent g with his finger.

    ¡¸<em>Attack the Wind Pool Valley disciples around you.</em>¡¹

    The words transformed into lightning and were absorbed by the Parent g.

    "Interesting." Yun Xiao smiled, lifting his gaze while standing upon his Sovereign Sword, the star map of the Grand Assembly Arena in his hand. He looked up at the endless stars before him, his heart aze. "With murderous intent swallowing the ster river, I alone roam carefree through the cosmos."

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Back on the Extreme Yin Star, a battle fueled by generations of hatred had reached its most intense and perilous moment.

    As blood flowed, tempers red hotter than ever.

    Wan Ji''s seven daughters stood with their backs against the Extreme Yin Star Barrier. Facing opponents several times their number, they huddled back to back around the Extreme Yin Parent g, defending it with their lives.

    By now, wounds marked each of them. But they were Martial Immortals of the Sea Lineage, possessing the Vast Sea Physique¡ªthe most resilient of all. They could endure punishment better than anyone, and none had fallen; they would fight to the death here.

    Since Feng Yao began the ughter, there was no room for mercy in this battle.

    Chi Shenshen led the geniuses of Wind Pool Valley and Thunder Devils in a frenzied assault. Organized and fierce, they pressed Wan Ji''s daughters to the brink of life and death with arrogant ferocity.

    Their numbers advantage was slowly starting to overwhelm the seven sisters.

    Sadly, Feng Yao couldn''t provide support, with Lei Ting keeping her locked down.

    Lei Ting''s violet hair whipped around him, electric serpents dancing in his eyes. He stood like a god of thunder and lightning, looking down with an air of absolute confidence over Feng Yao.

    "Resistance is futile," Lei Ting said coldly. "You are a devil. You share no blood ties with these snake women from the Harmony Divine Pce. Your future lies with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. You''ll be a cherished treasure, carefully protected by all of the Dragon Devil n. There''s no need to risk your life for those destined for death. Destruction is the fate of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!"

    Lei Ting held himself arrogantly. Knowing Chi Shenshen had the upper hand, victory seemed certain. As soon as one of Wan Ji''s seven daughters fell in battle, the bnce would be broken, and the rest would be doomed.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Afterwards, Chi Shenshen and the others could seize the Extreme Yin Parent g, neutralizing the threat of Yun Xiao snatching their stars.

    Feng Yao''s face remained cold. She ignored Lei Tingpletely. Instead, she turned and loosed an arrow. The speeding shaft pierced through a Thunder Devil''s back in an instant, just in time to save Hai Ying, who was on the verge of falling.

    She continued to shoot!

    "You''re a fool who doesn''t understand the times," Lei Ting snarled. "Don''t you get it? If all you had was your boundless talent, you''d still be fated to die. It''s the Supreme Yin Cauldron that truly saves your status!" Lei Ting eximed.

    Suddenly, a sh of crimson light closed in on him, nearly striking his mouth.

    "You!" Lei Ting roared in fury, unable to tolerate it any longer. "I''m giving you a chance, and you really think I can''t defeat you?"

    His eyes burst with lightning. Thunder roared around his body as he suddenly expanded, transforming into a berserk thunder devil just like his younger brother. But after his transformation, he stood a full ten feet tall, as high as the Young Dragon Lord. Yet his frame was twice that of the Young Dragon Lord. His arms alone measured over three feet in width!

    His hair stood on end, exploding outward. His skin, like crocodile hide, turned into iron armor, with thousands of thunderbolts coursing over it. His arms transformed into ws sharp as scimitars. At this moment, Lei Ting was a true fiend of thunder and lightning!

    This was Lei Ting''s true strength.

    "Don''t me me for getting rough!" He bellowed, lunging at Feng Yao with his berserk form. Several thick lightning bolts, like serpents, erupted from his body, illuminating the entire battlefield.

    Facing such a genius, Feng Yao merely sneered.

    She once again bent her bow to its fullest, unafraid of the strain. The Sanguine Spirit Dragon above her head fully merged into the Heaven Devourer Arrow, transforming it into a crimson divine dragon.

    <em>BOOM! </em>The arrow exploded forth, emitting a heaven-shaking roar. It collided with Lei Ting, blood and thunder shing violently. With a deafening shockwave, he cried out in pain¡ªone of his arms pierced through, a chunk of his shoulder torn away!

    <em>THUD! </em>He crashed heavily to the ground, blood gushing from his eyes. He roared in rage, unable to ept that even at full strength, he was suppressed by Feng Yao.

    "No matter how strong you are, it won''t change their deaths!"

    Unable to defeat her, he could only continue to entangle and dy, waiting for Hai Qing and the others to fall.

    Wan Ji''s seven daughters were indeed in dire peril.

    Feng Yao was furious.

    "You worthless scum, you insist on provoking me..." She hadn''t intended to kill so ruthlessly, but seeing Chi Shenshen''s group overwhelming the seven sisters with superior numbers ignited her fury.

    "Yeah? And what are you gonna do about it!?" Lei Tingughed maniacally.

    As if hearing themotion, Chi Shenshen in the distance also giggled, victory apparent, needing only to wrap things up.

    "Kill them! String together the heads of these seven women!" Chi Shenshen sneered.

    "Don''t rush; these pure maidens of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªwe should have some fun first!" a Thunder Devilughed.

    Before his words faded, the Thunder Devil suddenly froze.

    On his forehead, the green identity mark began to shine, projecting a line of words before his eyes:

    "A-attack the Wind Pool Valley disciples around you¡­!"

    Not just him¡ªall the frenzied Thunder Devils saw it.

    Lei Ting was about to continue locking Feng Yao down when thismand startled him.

    Below the message was a timer. Starting from ten, it slowly decreased¡ªa countdown.

    Lei Ting''s body trembled, his face turning ashen. He eximed shakily, "The Thunder Punisher Parent g has been taken!"

    They knew all too well what this meant.

    Lei Ting had anticipated that Yun Xiao might seed, but how did it happen so quickly?

    "Brother Ting, the countdown is almost over!" the Thunder Devils cried out in rm.

    If they didn''t execute the Parent g''smand before the countdown ended, they would be eliminated from the trial, losing any chance for revenge.

    Lei Ting suddenly nced over at Chi Shenshen and the others.

    Chi Shenshen, who had been sneering moments before, abruptly changed her expression. With a face as cold as ice, she snapped, "So what if you''re kicked out! Leave the rest to us!"

    Seeing the countdown nearing zero, Lei Ting roared on the spot, "No! I''m sorry!"

    They cared more about their ranking than the zing Yang Sect and Wind Pool Valley¡ªespecially Lei Ting. He couldn''t just inexplicably admit defeat; otherwise, how would any Thunder Devil respect him in the future?

    As long as the Southern Divine Dragon Realm could take down the Extreme Yin Star, Lei Ting could regain his freedom and still have a chance.

    So at this critical moment, all the Thunder Devils gritted their teeth, turned around, and attacked the disciples of Wind Pool Valley!

    This astonishing turn of events was deeply felt by Feng Yao and Wan Ji''s daughters, who had just been teetering on the brink of death.

    From the edge of life and death to a dramatic reversal¡ªit happened in an instant.

    "Yun Xiao has taken down the Thunder Punisher Star!"

    At that moment, Hai Qing and the others'' eyes reddened, nearly moved to tears.

    They had thought his solo departure was an act of escape. But right at the outset, he had taken down two high ranking celestial sects!

    Capturing the Thunder Punisher Star was nothing short of a monumental turnaround for the situation on the Extreme Yin Star.

    Seeing the Thunder Devils attacking Wind Pool Valley, Wan Ji''s seven daughters, along with Feng Yao, immediately sprang into action.

    "Chi Shenshen, go to hell!" Hai Qing roared, leading her sisters. The seven Martial Immortals charged into the fray,unching a fierce counterattack.

    The Thunder Devils were merely going through the motions, not daring to truly harm the Wind Pool Valley disciples, but they were different¡ªthey fought to kill!

    Even more ruthless was Feng Yao.

    Even without the Thunder Devils'' betrayal, the geniuses of the Harmony Divine Pce could have easily ughtered Wind Pool Valley''s forces.

    One by one, the disciples of Wind Pool Valley were cut down before they could utter a word¡ªsome in by the sword, others felled by arrows.

    "Feng Yao! Show some restraint! Don''t kill them!" Lei Ting''s face twisted as he feigned attacking Wind Pool Valley''s disciples, shouting anxiously.

    "Restraint? In your dreams!" Feng Yao brushed past him, diving straight into the crowd. At close range, she unleashed a flurry of arrows, wielding her bow in one hand and arrows in the other, smashing and stabbing¡ªbodies fell and blood sttered everywhere.

    Chi Shenshen was finally terrified. She screamed and wailed, fleeing in panic.

    "You think you can escape?" Feng Yao sneered, bending her bow and shooting toward the sky. A streak of crimson light shot out, and the already severely wounded Chi Shenshen was pierced from bottom to top by the Heaven Devourer Arrow on the spot!

    This time, Chi Shenshen was truly sent soaring¡ªpierced straight into the heavens!

    In just a short while, all the disciples of Wind Pool Valley had fallen here, everyst one dead.

    The remaining Thunder Devils huddled together, swallowing nervously as they looked at Feng Yao and her group, their scalps tingling with fear.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 864: No Grand Plan, Im Just Petty

    "My daughters!"

    Within the luminous halls of the Million Starlight Pce, Chi Wushuang¡ªthe captivating sect master in her green robes¡ªsuddenly stood up, her eyes red with blood.

    In these brief moments, she had watched helplessly as her two cherished daughters were in by Feng Yao and Yun Xiao, each death more tragic than thest.

    Even Lei Ting and Yang Yang weren''t dead yet!

    Why were Yun Xiao and Feng Yao targeting her so relentlessly?

    Clearly, it was tied to the ancient feud between the Wind Pool Valley and Harmony Divine Pce.

    The Wind Pool Valley was no match for the Harmony Divine Pce. But by constantly seeking alliances with powerful sects and securing influential backers, they had be a thorny adversary.

    As events escted to this point, the disciples sent by the sect masters of these three celestial sects were dead, injured, or crippled... Each of the three great sects found themselves in deeper disgrace than the other!

    Meanwhile, the ruthless and fearless tactics of Yun Xiao and Feng Yao were on full disy for all to witness.Their approach was starkly different from the previous disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce. Figures like Hai Qing and her peers, fearing retaliation, would always hold back, leaving an impression of weakness.

    But now, especially with Yun Xiao, each sword strike was more merciless than thest!

    The three great sects, along with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, were undoubtedly seething with rage.

    "Those geniuses from the three sects had decent track records before. This time, they were brimming with confidence, aiming to crush the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    "And yet, all their star disciples were farmed like livestock by those two."

    "The Harmony Divine Pce really came prepared..."

    "Next up, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm will step in. When true strength shes, it''ll be a spectacle worth watching."

    "That celestial ve and that 9-Star Boundless Immortal prodigy both have some skills. But sadly, theyck sufficient allies."

    "In contrast, the Young Dragon Lord is a hero adept at rallying support and building momentum. Upon learning the fate of the three sects, he wasn''t anxious at all. Instead, he continued to gather forces, binding more celestial sects to his chariot."

    "We reckon we''ll soon witness thergest-scale battle in the Grand Assembly Arena."

    The onlookers, eager for excitement, buzzed with fervent discussions.

    From their vantage point, they could clearly observe the reactions of the various geniuses.

    An enormous gathering near the Southern Divine Dragon Star had suddenly be the new focal point!

    "The geniuses of nearly 30 celestial sects have responded to the flying talisman summons and have gone to find the Young Dragon Lord."

    "Most of these sects are led by an Empyrean Emperor, each with an Eight Baptism Realm powerhouse presiding over them..."

    "Setting aside strength, the disparity in numbers is truly unprecedented!"

    These conversations and the unfolding situation naturally brought new pressure upon the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    However,pared to before, the fire within her heart burned even brighter. Although she knew the immense peril Yun Xiao and Feng Yao were about to face, at the very least, they could save their own lives!

    "As long as they stayed alive, there was hope for everything!"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    So, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen said nothing but sat upright. Though she was the sole upant of the seats belonging to the Harmony Divine Pce, her indomitable spirit upheld the grandeur of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    She suddenly sensed multiple gazes fixed upon her.

    "They''ve all arrived?"

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen turned her head to see that over in the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s area, several more imposing figures had taken their seats. Their positions were level with the Golden Dragon Emperor''s, naturally indicating they were also among the Eight Heavenly Dragons of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    They had all rushed from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. And their purpose? Without a doubt, it was the Supreme Yin Cauldron!

    The neers, along with those old stalwarts from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, had gazes that were coarse, domineering, lecherous, and ferocious from beginning to end.

    Even though the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was alone, they stared coldly at her, as if they wished to strip her down to her very bones.

    "A pack of snakes and worms dare to call themselves dragons? Just wait and see." The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen took a deep breath, icy determination swirling in her eyes.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Back on the Extreme Yin Star¡­

    "Yun Xiao is back!" Hai Ying''s joyfulughter startled everyone.

    She was so delighted that she nearly forgot this was a public ce and almost rushed over to give him a hug.

    Fortunately, her sister Hai Qing held her back.

    "Tsk. Deceiving young girls'' hearts again," Feng Yao remarked. She had known he was approaching but didn''t go over.

    After all, as soon as this white-robed youth returned, he was surrounded by a group of enchanting female Martial Immortals from the Sea Lineage.

    "Yun Xiao, how did you do it?"

    "You''re incredible!"

    "Really, we didn''t expect you to be this amazing."

    Their eyes sparkled with genuine admiration and praise, and such respectful gazes made Yun Xiao feel a bit overwhelmed.

    They, too, felt a strange sensation; after all, they had never before felt admiration or reverence for a celestial ve.

    "Just luck. Just luck," Yun Xiao replied modestly. He extricated himself from their midst and nced over at Feng Yao. Noticing her standing at a distance with arms crossed and a pout on her lips, he chuckled. "What''s the matter? Jealous?"

    "Hmph." Feng Yao turned her face away.

    This exchange left Hai Qing and the others even more puzzled.

    "Sister, do you think they might have feelings that go¡­ you know?" Hai Ying whispered, clicking her tongue.

    "Don''t talk nonsense," Hai Qing hurriedly replied.

    "Seriously! When I was praising Yun Xiao just now, it was likeplimenting a brave sister¡ªhe feels like one of us. But I get the sense that Yao Yao is flirting with him," Hai Ying whispered conspiratorially.

    "Ahem!" Hai Qing and the others had noticed it too. They felt awkward but could only cough to break the tension.

    "Hey, eunuch!" Lei Ting''s impatient voice suddenly shattered the awkwardness.

    A group of Thunder Devils gathered on a high vantage point, ring coldly at the white-robed youth, their eyes filled with deep contempt.

    Yun Xiao looked up at Lei Ting and then soared into the air, arriving directly before him.

    They were less than three feet apart.

    At such close quarters, Lei Ting could see the divine visage of this so-called celestial ve even more clearly. He couldn''t help but sneer, "No wonder you''re so popr with thedies¡ªyou look like the perfect toy for those venomous women."

    "Indeed," Yun Xiao replied with a gentle smile.

    "Let''s cut to the chase!" Lightning flickered in Lei Ting''s eyes. He tried to suppress Yun Xiao with his aura, hoping to intimidate the young man into backing down. Leaning in slightly, he said coldly, "Why did you keep us here on the Extreme Yin Star?"

    The moment his words fell, Yun Xiao¡ªstill smiling¡ªsuddenly thrust his Heaven Burial Sword Soul forward. In an instant, it pierced through Lei Ting''s heart!

    <em>STAB! STAB! STAB! </em>Yun Xiao struck nine times in rapid session. With each thrust, a blood-formed ice spike shot forth from Lei Ting''s body!

    "Gugh¡­!" Lei Ting had never anticipated Yun Xiao would strike to kill. His eyes widened in shock, and the ck blood he spat from his mouth instantly crystallized into ice.

    Yun Xiao casually withdrew his Heaven Burial Sword Soul, and said leisurely, "No big reason. She was taking too long to kill you, and I didn''t want to see you luck out by getting eliminated."

    "Ugh..." Lei Ting''s gaze was filled with struggle, pain, and resentment. He was a super genius, oneparable to an 8-Star Diva prodigy!

    Yet, his story was ending just like that? In his despair, his body transformed into an ice sculpture.

    Yun Xiao pulled out the blood-formed ice spikes from Lei Ting''s corpse and tossed them to Feng Yao. "Don''t waste it. This is a blood attribute Seed of Creation called Devil Fiend Thunder Blood. The quality is pretty decent."

    "Huh? Oh¡­!" Feng Yao stood there, stunned, catching the blood.

    She had thought Yun Xiao spared Lei Ting for some grand n. Turns out he simply felt she wasn''t killing fast enough!

    Typically, after someone handed over a Pledge of Allegiance, it would be harder for the suzerain to kill them because any resistance by the vassal would result in elimination.

    But Yun Xiao''s killing speed outpaced any chance for Lei Ting to resist!

    Lei Ting died underestimating the boldness of this celestial ve.

    The death of such a genius would surely drive the Thunder Devil Sect to stop at nothing for revenge against the Harmony Divine Pce. Normally, if Yun Xiao understood the bigger picture, he wouldn''t kill so recklessly.

    But little did they know, in Yun Xiao''s eyes, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm meant nothing at all...

    And so, Lei Ting died a tragic death.

    "Die!" The remaining Thunder Devils, tears streaming from their eyes, charged toward Yun Xiao.

    But the moment they moved, they were ensnared by the Grand Assembly Arena''s grand celestial formation, flung skyward to who knew where!

    In any case, the Thunder Devil Sect was the first to be eliminated, ranking deadst!

    After all this, Yun Xiao acted as if nothing had happened. Moving at his own pace, he turned to face the approaching so-called righteous army of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 866: The Hero Rallies His Forces!

    The Young Dragon Lord looked up at the Heavenly Deity Rankings and smiled coldly. "Those four are quite eager, leaving the matter of the Extreme Yin Star to me while they can''t wait to attack other stars."

    "Didn''t we agree that we''d just push out the Harmony Divine Pce this time and notpete for first ce?" Shen Nanyin asked, exasperated.

    "That''s my father''s idea. Who knows what others are thinking? If you ask me, when ites to steadiness, my old man takes the prize," the Young Dragon Lord sneered.

    "Fine, let those four be anxious. As long as we capture the Extreme Yin Star and kick the Harmony Divine Pce out of the top ten, we''ll still be the biggest contributors in this Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects," Shen Nanyin said, holding the Young Dragon Lord''s arm and humming softly.

    Her considerable assets pressed against his muscr arm. Even through the gaps in his armor, he could feel it. Catching a whiff of her rich fragrance, the Young Dragon Lord nced at Shen Nanyin''s profile and suddenlyughed. "You''ve been more agreeabletely. Once this is over, I''ll reward you with a trip to paradise."

    "Oh, stop it! This is the Grand Assembly Arena!" Shen Nanyin, having be dependent after frequent scoldings, felt her heart race whenever the Young Dragon Lord spoke casually.

    "The Grand Assembly Arena is the perfect ce. Let everyone in the Samsara Gxy see what a real man and woman are." The Young Dragon Lord chuckled.

    Shen Nanyin knew he seldom made jokes; he was a man of his word. Her heart couldn''t help but pound as sheined, "I just gave birth to a son not long ago and haven''t fully recovered yet. Please, don''t get carried away."

    "Better not have any more children; one birth takes years to recover.""Mhm."

    Just as Shen Nanyin was feeling content, the Young Dragon Lord sneered, "From now on, let the Supreme Yin Cauldron bear the children!"

    Hearing this, Shen Nanyin secretly rolled her eyes and thought, "Your father wants children with the Supreme Yin Cauldron, and so do you. Maybe your grandfather would rise wanting the same. Let''s see how you sort out the family hierarchy then!"

    As they were speaking, a graceful figure in orange flew over from afar.

    "It''s Liu Liu from the zing Yang Sect!"

    Her arrival caused a stir among the 300 geniuses present, who all cast curious and sympathetic nces.

    Her fiance had been castrated by the celestial ve¡ªa lifelong torment and an unspeakable humiliation!

    Liu Liu clearly hadn''t recovered. Her face was pale, her head bowed, and her beautiful eyes trembled. When she stood before the Young Dragon Lord, tears welled in her eyes. In a trembling voice, she said, "Young Dragon Lord, we have failed. Please punish us."

    "Help her up," the Young Dragon Lord said to Shen Nanyin. Then he turned to Liu Liu. "You have done your best and sacrificed so much in the crusade against evil. What''s there to be guilty of? It was me who underestimated our opponent; the responsibility lies with me."

    By the time the Young Dragon Lord finished speaking, Shen Nanyin had already helped Liu Liu to her feet. Though she appeared sympathetic, inwardly she was mocking her, "Her newly betrothed man was crippled by the celestial ve, and I heard it was done with her own Sword Soul? Hrious! She''ll surely make Yang Yang wear a few horns in the future."

    Liu Liu couldn''t hear her inner thoughts. With tears on her face, she spoke a few more words taking all the me, then stated her purpose. "Now that the zing Yang Star has been conquered by that celestial ve, we are constrained by the Parent g and cannot defy his orders. We humbly request that before attacking the Extreme Yin Star, please help us remove the Extreme Yin Child g, so that the zing Yang Star can be part of the Southern Divine Dragon Star."

    ording to the rules, the zing Yang Star was now upied by the Extreme Yin Child g. But if the Southern Divine Dragon Realm conquered the zing Yang Star a second time, nting their own Child g, the star would change hands. The zing Yang Parent g in Yun Xiao''s possession would fly away, allowing the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to im it.

    "You''re worried that the celestial ve will force you to resist us?" the Young Dragon Lord asked.

    "Yes!" Liu Liu wept, attempting to kneel once more. In a sorrowful voice, she said, "The zing Yang Sect wishes to contribute to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s cause of eradicating evil, not to aid the wicked and stand against everyone! Even if we are constrained, we won''tply!"

    The zing Yang Sect could choose to resist Yun Xiao''s orders as a gesture of loyalty to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. However, that would also mean their journey in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects would be cut short.

    When Liu Liu made this request, the other geniuses present all focused intently on the Young Dragon Lord.

    They, too, like Liu Liu, were inspired by the Young Dragon Lord''s righteousness and strength, contributing to the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    They wanted to know: if something happened to them, would the Young Dragon Lord save them?

    The Young Dragon Lord''s attitude toward the zing Yang Sect often reflected his attitude toward them.

    Every disciple at least hoped to bring glory to their sects on the rankings.

    "In that case..." The Young Dragon Lord''s expression turned solemn. He scanned the crowd, finally resting his gaze on Shen Nanyin. "Apany Liu Liu to the zing Yang Star and nt our Child g."

    Hearing this, a light kindled in everyone''s eyes. Not only was the Young Dragon Lord willing to help, but he was sending Shen Nanyin¡ªa sign of high regard.

    "No problem," Shen Nanyin nodded. This was actually a very simple task. Yang Yang and Liu Liu wouldn''t truly resist her. So, she was just going through the motions.

    "Thank you, Young Dragon Lord!" Liu Liu sobbed with gratitude, clearly having endured immense torment recently.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    As long as the zing Yang Star came under the dominion of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, she could at least give her elders an exnation.

    "Our momentum is so great that the people of the Harmony Divine Pce shouldn''t even think about leaving the Extreme Yin Star." The Young Dragon Lord gazed into the distance, his voice cold and stern. "Nanyin, once you secure the Parent g, withdraw swiftly so we can proceed with our attack."

    This way, the disciples of the zing Yang Sect could avoid being forced into resistance.

    "When will you depart?" Shen Nanyin whispered.

    The Young Dragon Lord nced at the flying talisman in his hand. "About 100 more have answered the call; they''re on their way and should arrive soon."

    "Alright, I''ll head to the zing Yang Star first and act ordingly." Shen Nanyin nodded.

    "Stay out of sight," the Young Dragon Lord cautioned.

    Feeling his concern, Shen Nanyin shed a yful smile. "Don''t worry. I''m a Dragon Devil in the Perfect Fourth Baptism Realm. Even if all nine of them from the Harmony Divine Pce joined forces, they couldn''t take me down."

    Hearing this, the Young Dragon Lord felt an urge to p her again. This woman could be so arrogant and shameless at times, utterlycking restraint.

    But then again¡­ she wasn''t wrong. She was two stages higher than Lei Ting and indeed a once-in-a-lifetime genius of the Dragon Devil n. Otherwise, she wouldn''t qualify to be his legitimate wife.

    Sending her to aid the zing Yang Star was actually overkill.

    If not for the peculiarities of Feng Yao and Yun Xiao, Shen Nanyin alone could have taken the Extreme Yin Star.

    The fact that the Young Dragon Lord had gathered almost 400 talented and righteous warriors showed he was exceedingly cautious, intolerant of mistakes, and adept at using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.

    Even if the opponent had countless trump cards, the Young Dragon Lord wouldn''t bother calcting; he''d simply crush them with ten times the power!

    That was just his style. He''d unsheathe his Sword Soul to y even an ant crossing his path.

    After Shen Nanyin left, over 400 geniuses quickly assembled.

    It was going to be 400 vs. 9. Among them, more than 100 were Samsara Disciples!

    "With this lineup, we could sweep the entire Grand Assembly Arena, let alone eight hens and one capon!" the Young Dragon Lord thought, utterly confident. Smiling coldly, he led his band of heroes toward the Extreme Yin Star.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 868: From Holy Dragon to Shrimp

    Yun Xiao simply shook his head at Shen Nanyin''s taunts. "Well, you can''t say whatever happens to you next isn''t deserved."

    His white robes billowed. The Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand transformed into a three-foot azure de, held horizontally at his side. Between his brows, the silhouette of a nine-headed violet dragon slowly emerged.

    "The little eunuch dog actually wants to make a move?" Shen Nanyin giggled, something soft beneath her battle armor quivering like a basin of water. As sheughed, her expression turned cold. "Fine. You''re the Star Liege of the Extreme Yin Star. I''ll take you down and earn some merit."

    As she spoke, a chill and battle intent surged within her. Her Perfect Fourth Baptism Realm cultivation flowed through her body. Four draconic shadows¡ªthe force of four cmities¡ªcoiled around her waist, arms, and long legs.

    A golden Sword Soul suddenly materialized in her hand. Yes, she was a Sword Immortal.

    But unlike the Sword Immortals Yun Xiao had seen before, her Palm Sword''s size rivaled that of his Sovereign Sword¡ªa full six feet long, two palms wide, and as thick as a fist.

    Such a gigantic sword seemed perfectly bnced in her hands, highlighting her tall and slender figure.

    Her Sword Soul was extraordinary¡ªentirely golden, covered with dragon scales. Each reverse scale was a Sword Prison, containing 10,000,000yers of Sword Aura.

    It was clear this golden sword sported over 600 Sword Prisons¡ªthe highest among the young prodigies that Yun Xiao had ever seen.Besides the golden dragon-scale Sword Prisons, the de bore two protruding round white areas. Brilliance swirled upon them, making it seem as if the Sword Soul had sprouted tworge white eyes.

    Shen Nanyin''s Sword Soul was famous¡ªthe White-Pupil Dragon Sword Soul, a signature of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, perfectly suited for women of the Dragon Devil n.

    Now, she gripped the six-foot Palm Sword. The Corona above her head zed with golden light. Her golden curls danced without wind. Hovering gracefully, she exuded an awe-inspiring aura. In divine might and brilliance, she overshadowed the <em>in and unremarkable</em> Yun Xiao by several levels.

    Their imposing presences belonged to entirely different realms.

    Moreover, Shen Nanyin upheld her husband''s fine tradition of giving her all¡ªeven as a lion hunting a <em>rabbit</em>. So she directly activated the power of her Corona.

    The Corona above her head transformed into a drop of dragon blood, which fell onto her fragrant tongue. A surge of bloodline power coursed through her. As she unleashed vast dragon might, her delicate form expanded and grew. In an instant, her strength, defense, and other attributes seemed enhanced. Her height surpassed that of the Young Dragon Lord, reaching a full twelve feet.

    That made her twice Yun Xiao''s height! Previously, the top of Yun Xiao''s head could reach her chest, but now he couldn''t even touch her navel!

    "What a freak!" Yun Xiao gawked. Gazing at Shen Nanyin, with her heaven-shaking aura and draconic radiance, he could only marvel at the perversity of creation.

    Fortunately, women of the Dragon Devil n couldn''t undergo the draconic transformation; otherwise, she would be even more terrifying.

    Their inability to transform was actually the reason why Dragon Devil n women held a lower status.

    But this time, the Young Dragon Lord used Shen Nanyin as a symbol. As she made a stunning appearance before Yun Xiao, disying supreme divine might, she immediately drew waves of acim from the Million Starlight Pce, easily erasing people''s negative impressions of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    It was a masterful act of redemption!

    To the masses, Shen Nanyin appeared lofty and pure, like a tinum holy dragon, while Yun Xiao seemed like a castrated hyena. If not for his decent looks, the gap between them would have been even greater.

    Empowered by her Corona and Sword Soul, Shen Nanyin naturally knew how elegant and powerful she was. From her higher position, she gazed down at Yun Xiao with arrogance and dominance. Her red lips curled up as she said merrily, "What? Feeling ashamed of yourself already? You can set aside your inferiority over your own shorings and muster your ridiculous sphemous intent for a valiant battle."

    Yun Xiao was somewhat impressed. This woman was the epitome of an extremely confident and arrogant drama queen¡ªand undeniably shameless.

    "Come on! Use that soft Sword Soul of yours¡ªkill me! Stab me!" Shen Nanyin taunted.

    The young man in white with the azure sword, who hadn''t uttered a word from beginning to end, suddenly charged at her like 1,000 miles of ice,unching a fierce attack!

    "Well, he does have some skill!"

    Though Shen Nanyin mocked him, she didn''t truly underestimate her opponent; after all, she didn''t want her debut performance to end in a humiliating failure.

    She gripped the six-foot White-Pupil Dragon Sword Soul with both hands. As she swung it, the 600 Sword Prisons unleashed a roaring Sword Aura. The tribtion power of four different kinds of cmities converged, and her twelve-foot-tall body erupted with draconic divine power!

    This strike was fierce and sweeping, like a holy dragon descending from the heavens, shing down at Yun Xiao with fury.

    "Dawn Holy Dragon sh!"

    As the sword rose, it was like the rising sun; dazzling dawn light illuminated the battlefield, leaving all serpents and evil spirits nowhere to hide.

    This was a strike of divine might¡ªa sword of radiant sanctity that vanquished evil!

    The light and shadows from the sword illuminated Shen Nanyin''s enchanting face¡ªcoldly arrogant, aloof, contemptuous, and domineering.

    This sh epassed the momentum of the heavens and stars, pressing down upon Yun Xiao''s head!

    Amidst the brilliant golden light, Yun Xiao remained calm andposed, gracefully ascending. In an instant, like a gentle breeze, he appeared before Shen Nanyin, as if delivering his head to her sword from 1,000 miles away!

    This move drew a chorus of mockery.

    In that split second, as Shen Nanyin lowered her head to deliver a furious sh, she locked eyes with Yun Xiao.

    Her heart skipped a beat. Her arrogance was propped up by the esteemed status granted by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and the Young Dragon Lord.

    Yet in Yun Xiao''s gaze, there was an all-consuming disdain that pierced her eyes like a sharp de, striking straight to her soul.

    "You wield the sword like a brute," a cold voice echoed in her ear.

    A chill ran down her snowy-white back, and cold sweat broke out.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As the Dawn Holy Dragon sh descended, the azure sword in Yun Xiao''s hand moved like a true dragon. It tapped the side of her White-Pupil Dragon Sword Soul, then, like a swift swimming dragon, circled around her golden Sword Soul and in an instant pointed at her left rib.

    With just one stroke, Yun Xiao''s three-foot azure de lifted her battle armor at the rib and precisely pierced beneath her armpit. If the sword had gone any deeper, it would have prated her lungs and heart, iming her life.

    "AGGGH!" All of Shen Nanyin''s pride evaporated in an instant. Her body trembled with fear.

    As the Young Dragon Consort, and due to the special circumstances of the Southern Divine Dragon, she had scant realbat experience. She never expected Yun Xiao, without even employing a sword technique, to wield his de like a swimming dragon, entangling her Dawn Holy Dragon sh and threatening her life in an instant.

    Without practical experience, in the eyes of the detail-obsessed Yun Xiao, this Young Dragon Consort was like an oversized sitting duck, full of ring weaknesses.

    She was riddled with ws.

    In that terrifying moment, Shen Nanyin''s loftiness and sanctity were effortlessly shattered by Yun Xiao''s single strike. She was drenched in cold sweat, her long legs trembling, her mind nk.

    From a proud tinum holy dragon to a trembling ything in Yun Xiao''s hands¡ªit took only one attack.

    Fortunately, after the initial shock, she reacted swiftly. At the critical juncture, she let out a startled cry and summoned her life-saving celestial treasure.

    <em>ROAR! </em>A ck dragon suddenly burst from her bosom, lunging at Yun Xiao with bared fangs.

    The ck dragon was shrouded in dark smoke. Though it had the form of a dragon¡ªwith dragon teeth and scales¡ªYun Xiao saw at a nce that it was a chain-shaped celestial treasure. Since Shen Nanyin used it as her life-saving treasure, its power was undoubtedly formidable.

    "Die!" Shen Nanyin, frustrated, screamed in panic like a swan toppled by a toad, waving her hands wildly andpletely losing her earlier grandeur.

    In Yun Xiao''s eyes, she was a shameless and self-important clown.

    The ck dragon chain shot out; though it was at close range and posed a significant threat, Yun Xiao reacted swiftly. With a single hand moving like an azure dragon, he instantly pressed the Prison Warden Sigil onto the ck dragon''s head, subduing it.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The ck dragon chain in his hand was suppressed by the violet nine-headed dragon, seemingly restrained by bloodline, emitting low growls.

    "Bite him to death!" Shen Nanyin pinned all her hopes on the ck dragon chain, her shout already tinged with a sob of panic.

    Just as she red angrily at Yun Xiao, having just finished her scream, Yun Xiao, relying on the Prison Warden Sigil, pressed down the ck dragon with one hand, forcibly pulling it out from Shen Nanyin''s grasp. With his other hand holding the three-foot azure de, the sharp tip directly pointed at Shen Nanyin''s tongue, which was about to scream in terror.

    "So fragrant!" Red Moon suddenly darted out, extending a long, red tongue, licking the ck dragon chain several times.

    "Damn it, stop embarrassing me¡­!" Yun Xiao muttered. He nudged the little ck beast back with his chin, then coldly looked at the Young Dragon Consort.

    He saw that her Corona had lost effect; her stature finally shrank back to nine feet, which was somewhat more normal. Otherwise, he really couldn''t reach her!

    Now, she was drenched in sweat, her face filled with terror as she looked at the sword near her tongue, swallowing nervously. Her whole body leaned back, lifting her battle armor high in front of her chest, her body trembling incessantly, not daring to utter a single word.

    Only terror, heavy breathing, and pleading in her eyes toward Yun Xiao remained.

    At this moment, how could she still dare to mock this youth in white?

    She was afraid that Yun Xiao might kill her in anger; life was precious, so she didn''t dare to move at all.

    "Don''t move," Yun Xiao said, looking at her with a cold expression, tinged with some amusement.

    "Mhm! Ah!" Shen Nanyin just nodded, but her tongue touched the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, causing such pain that tears welled up¡ªhow could she still resemble a golden holy dragon?

    She was so weakened that she copsed to her knees before Yun Xiao, her body curling up like a shrimp, head tilted back, abdomen lifted.

    Yun Xiao saw this posture and decided to restrain her.

    He used the ck dragon chain he had suppressed to bind her hands and feet, ensuring she couldn''t make any sudden moves. Fortunately, her flexibility was remarkable; otherwise, such restraint might have caused injury.

    After securing her, Yun Xiao looked at her pale face, drenched in sweat, and couldn''t help butugh.

    "W-what are you going to do?" Shen Nanyin cried in a trembling voice.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 859: Expert Star Snatcher!

    "You can''t hold out any longer? Who''s attacking you?" Yun Xiao asked. He focused on the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, surveying the situation himself.

    A nce was all it took to confirm what he suspected; Feng Yao was exaggerating.

    Outside the Extreme Yin Star, there was clearly a presence, a sizable group of at least 40, but they were not attacking yet.

    Instead, they hovered in the sky, creating a sense of oppression.

    "Hai Qing said it''s two celestial sects, Wind Pool Valley and the Thunder Devil Sect. Among them, the Thunder Devil Sect includes some top genius called Lei Ting," Feng Yao grumbled.

    "Has the power of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier been boosted yet?" Yun Xiao casually asked while pulling out the star map of the Grand Assembly Arena.

    "No?" Feng Yao was still speaking when suddenly, nearby, the Star Nexus trembled violently, and a surge of icy cold tides swarmed out, joining the Extreme Yin Star Barrier and turning the ice and snow hellscape even more ferocious.

    "What''s going on?" As Hai Qing and the others faced this great threat, their pretty faces tensed, and suddenly seeing the Extreme Yin Star Barrier grow wild, they all looked bewildered.

    "Yun Xiao must have conquered the nearest zing Yang Star," Feng Yao said, slightly astounded, despite having anticipated it.Her heart pounded. This guy hadn''t shown off for a few days, and when he did, it was still so monstrous!

    "Huh?" Hai Qing and the others thought Yun Xiao had just gone to hide from the storm, not expecting him to actually seed.

    "Is it because Yang Yang and Liu Liu went out to conquer other stars, letting him sneak in tounch a surprise attack?" Hai Ying asked, her mind swirling.

    Feng Yao knew it wasn''t easy for them to ept the extraordinariness of a ve. So, she smirked and said, "Think what you want, but it''s strange, isn''t it? Aren''t we supposed to be the main target of the zing Yang Sect? If Yang Yang and Liu Liu went out to conquer other stars, why aren''t they attacking us?"

    "Uh..."

    The seven sisters were stunned, their gazes filled with bewilderment and a hint of terror. They didn''t speak but exchanged looks, their eyes already beginning to show signs of shock.

    "Hold on, I''ll be back soon to save you," Yun Xiao suddenly said through the Mortal Dust Devil Seed.

    "How long do we need to hold on?" Feng Yao pressed.

    "Just hold on, that''s all."

    Afterwards the Mortal Dust Devil Seed seemed to fall asleep, cuttingmunication with Feng Yaopletely.

    Feng Yao called out to the Mortal Dust Devil Seed several times, receiving no response, which infuriated her so much she stomped her feet, cursing, "Always ignoring me, you might as well scram out of my heart." ?

    "You wish," the Mortal Dust Devil Seed suddenly said.

    "You!" Feng Yao was speechless, trying to continue the conversation, but Yun Xiao had already tuned her out again. "Damn it, got the upper hand on me again!"

    From a distance, Hai Qing and the others watched her seemingly talk to herself in a coy, naive manner, their confusion evident.

    This Grand Assembly Arena battle had been strange from the start.

    "Sister!" Hai Ying suddenly called out sharply, then pointed upwards.

    They all saw it. The over 40 people surrounding the Extreme Yin Star began descending, clearly initiating their invasion!

    "Hold on, Yun Xiao wille back," Feng Yao assured them confidently.

    "Him? Maybe that ve is actually capable?"

    After all, Yun Xiao had conquered the zing Yang Star all by himself. Not only that, but it appeared he also defeated Yang Yang and Liu Liu!

    With ast shred of doubt, the seven sisters took a deep breath and looked towards the sky where their enemies outnumbered them five to one, bracing for the battle!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Back in the Million Starlight Pce, when Yun Xiao raised the zing Yang Parent g within the myriad stars disy, a tumultuous uproar surged around like a tidal wave, deafening.

    For a moment, nearly everyone''s eyes were on Yang Qingtian, the leader of the zing Yang Sect.

    Their gazes were peculiar, vibrating with a mixture of shock and mockery.

    "The esteemed zing Yang Sect''s two prodigies yed by a mere celestial ve..."

    "Now, Yang Qingtian has truly lost face!"

    Beneath these murmurs, the upper echelon of the zing Yang Sect turned ashen, theirplexions sickly.

    Yang Qingtian himself felt an unbearable torment as he endured the stabbing gazes.

    "A Parent g pulled up means a sect conquered; to avoid bottoming out, they''ll have to ept their losses and expand the territory of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm..."

    This harsh reality,pounded by Yang Yang''s utter humiliation, was a double blow that transformed Yang Qingtian''s earlier arrogance into something he had to swallow, like gnats in his gut.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Even the stoic Golden Dragon Emperor beside him turned cold and detached.

    Of course, with the overall situation still under the control of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, no one dared to overtly mock Yang Qingtian, a hunting hound under themand of the Golden Dragon Emperor.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen''s unexpectedughter broke through the solemnity at the perfect moment, echoing around the section reserved for the members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    All eyes turned to the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    She pursed her lips, raised an eyebrow at Yang Qingtian, and spoke lightly, "Sect Master Yang, if your son finds themon gaze hard to bear in the future, consider sending him to serve in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. We''ve recently revised ourws to offer greater privileges to celestial ves, and Yun Xiao is a testament to that."

    Yang Qingtian lowered his face, his cheeks burning as he ignored herpletely.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen continued with a slight smile, "If you''re interested, feel free to contact me anytime. The gates of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm are always open for your son."

    At this, stifledughter began to spread among the listeners.

    Despite the perilous state of the Harmony Divine Pce on the brink of destruction, it was clear to the discerning eye that in this small game, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm had won splendidly with just a mere celestial ve.

    In the Samsara Gxy, where myriad sects vied for supremacy, swords and ughter were the ever-present themes. Justice was but a fleeting crest on the waves of power¡ªbeautiful, yet belonging only to the strong and victorious.

    And evil? Often, it was just the muck on the defeated.

    Strength and victory alone dictated the rules.

    Under such circumstances, the fact that a celestial ve like Yun Xiao could induce some tough at Yang Qingtian was nothing short of a miracle.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen¡¯s words were heard by all the other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance present.

    Silence ensued, and eventually, the matter seemed to pass.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor nced at Yang Qingtian and spoke inly, "It¡¯s nothing. Once the Extreme Yin Parent g is pulled, your g will be restored to its ce."

    "I understand," Yang Qingtian replied, not particrly concerned. He looked up at the Golden Dragon Emperor and said, "I apologize for my son''s mediocre skills tarnishing the might of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm."

    "No need for self-reproach," the Golden Dragon Emperor responded, gazing into the sky. "Considering the level of his swordsmanship, much effort must have gone into training this celestial ve assassin."

    "Indeed," Yang Qingtian said, his gaze frosty. "But to think this one card can change the fate of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is nothing but a fool¡¯s dream."

    "A card shown is no longer a trump card," Lei Zhenyuan from Thunder Devil Sect remarked coolly.

    "Rest assured, Sect Master Yang," Chi Wushuang, the graceful sect leader of Wind Pool Valley, smiled. "Our disciples have already surrounded the Extreme Yin Star. Once the might of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm arrives, this game will end."

    Yang Qingtian leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed intensely on the Extreme Yin Star and the lone figure of a young man in white.

    "Wait?" Yang Qingtian sat up abruptly, frowning. "This boy hasn''t gone back to the Extreme Yin Star to help; he''s heading towards the Thunder Punisher Star!"

    "Hmm?" Lei Zhenyuan noticed too, his expression turning steely. "Lei Zhong, Lei Gu, and the 20 Thunder Devils stationed there aren''t even as strong as the force that was guarding the zing Yang Star!"

    "It''s fine. Your son Lei Ting is smart enough! He must have received a message from the zing Yang Star, guessing that Yun Xiao would try to sneak an attack on the Thunder Punisher Star. So, he switched from defense to offense," Chi Wushuang exined.

    Wind Pool Valley and the Thunder Devil Sect wereunching their attack while Yun Xiao was still en route!

    The tension escted immediately!

    Although it was the younger disciples who were fighting, the stakes involved the grand strategy of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. So, the elders watched with intense, solemn focus.

    From the onset of the battle, the young man in white became the center of attention, and at this moment, he still forcefully drew countless gazes, as if he were the brightest light in the Million Starlight Sky Screen.

    "A despicable, lowly eunuch dog, doesn¡¯t even know the meaning of death!" Lei Zhenyuan cursed. He burst into a rage as he saw Yun Xiao attempting to conquer the Thunder Punisher Star.

    Nearby, Yang Qingtian''s face twitched violently, his guts twisting in difort. He realized the irony as he thought about the stage of his own son. Though it pained him, he could only pretend that he hadn''t heard anything...

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Back on the Extreme Yin Star, an icy cold tide assaulted the heavens.

    A merciless, murderous intent mixed within the blizzard descended from above!

    Even before it arrived, Hai Qing and herpanions could already sense the aura of their fated enemies.

    Wind Pool Valley, the Thunder Devil Sect, and the zing Yang Sect... Both in the Samsara Gxy and Grand Assembly Arena, these sects were the closest to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, and conflicts were inevitable at each Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    And when the women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm fell in battle, it was often rted to these celestial sects!

    The situation with the zing Yang Sect was at least tenable. However, there were deeper blood feuds with Wind Pool Valley and the Thunder Devil Sect.

    Wind Pool Valley, a realm ruled by women, was unlike the Harmony Divine Pce. The women of Wind Pool Valley were known for forging alliances with stronger sects, having historically attached themselves to many members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm was the powerful ally they were currently aligned with...

 Chapter 861: A Lone Immortal Gliding Through the Snow!

    West of the Extreme Yin Star, floating in the starry expanse, was a star wreathed in violet lightning.

    This Taiyi Sourcecore was fiercely violent, entwined with endless violet lightning serpents. It shone upon the heavens like a colossal ball of lightning.

    Its murderous aura was enough to make nearby Sourcecores tremble.

    This was the Thunder Punisher Star.

    In the Samsara Gxy, on a Celestial Sourcecore known as the Thunder Punisher Star, the Thunder Devils had founded the Thunder Devil Sect¡ªa renowned devil sect and a nightmare to neighboring worlds.

    Even within the Grand Assembly Arena, disciples from other celestial sects felt uneasy.

    But during this Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, those Thunder Devils ignored the <em>food </em>right in front of them and went straight to besiege the Extreme Yin Star.

    Now, at the Star Nexus of the thunderous Thunder Punisher Star, about 20 Thunder Devils gathered.

    The tallest and roughest among them were Lei Ting''s younger brothers, Lei Zhong and Lei Gu. Though they didn''t possess Pure Thunder Seeds like Lei Ting, they still had the potential to one day be Heavenly Monarchs.Their coarse violet hair stood on end, and their skin was thick and tough like crocodile hide. Lightning serpents coiled around the sharp teeth jutting from their lips, making them look ugly and full of murderous intent. They were natural-born hunters.

    These Thunder Devils lounged around the Thunder Punisher Parent g on the Star Nexus, chatting out of sheer boredom.

    "That female Yin Devil probably hasn''t tasted a real devil seed. It''d be great to give her a try," Lei Gu chuckled. He was the youngest brother.

    "No chance. She''s the Supreme Yin Cauldron that the Young Dragon Lord fancies; he wouldn''t let us touch a single hair," Lei Zhong replied coldly, displeased.

    "I wish we Thunder Devils could join the Heavenly Deity Alliance and be stronger than the Southern Divine Dragon Realm! Then, we wouldn''t have to serve the human race." Lei Gu gritted his teeth.

    "Keep those thoughts to yourself." Lei Zhong shot his brother a re.

    "Got it." Lei Gu grumbled, looking bored. "No one dares attack the Thunder Punisher Star. Guarding the Parent g is dull¡ªI wish I were with our big brother tormenting the women from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    The other Thunder Devils shared this sentiment. They were frustrated at being ordered to stay behind.

    Just then, Lei Zhong received a flying talisman.

    "It''s a message from big bro." Opening it, Lei Zhong''s expression turned odd. "He says we should be careful¡ªthe ve from the Extreme Yin Star mighte to snatch our home?" ???

    The others stared for a moment, then burst into heartyughter.

    "If that kid dares show up, we''ll dismember him, string him piece by piece, and roast him over a fire!" Lei Gu grinned wickedly.

    "Perfect!" Lei Zhong couldn''t help butugh. "The kid''s already been castrated¡ªsaves us the trouble of scraping eggs. A capon has no distractions and is the most tender."

    The Thunder Devils roared with roughughter.

    However, a blinding azure sword light suddenly fell from the sky like a meteor. In an instant, it pierced through the myriad lightning serpents of the Thunder Punisher Star Barrier and appeared before the Thunder Devils.

    "Someone''s attacking us!"

    Startled, the Thunder Devils leaped to their feet. They stared wide-eyed to see that the attacker was alone¡ªthe very celestial ve they had mocked earlier.

    For a moment, they exchanged nces, their faces twitching as they tried to suppress theirughter.

    "Yao Yao and your kind are both devils. Yet, why do you guys look more like beasts?" Yun Xiao remarked, calming hovering on his six-foot Sovereign Sword.

    The Thunder Devils immediately became enraged. Lightning shed and thunder roared from their nostrils, emitting white smoke.

    "You''re really asking for it!" Lei Gu''s face turned icy. He let out a low roar, transforming into a berserk thunder devil, and charged at Yun Xiao.

    At the same time, the lightning of the entire Thunder Punisher Star Barrier transformed into heavenly thunder, bombarding toward Yun Xiao.

    Hovering high above, Yun Xiao looked down as if gazing at a herd of lightning pigs.

    "Heh." With a wave of his hand, the Prison Warden Sigil floated down, attaching itself to the Thunder Punisher Parent g in the Star Nexus.

    In that split second, the power of the Thunder Punisher Star Barrier changed dramatically. The gathered lightning serpents grew several times thicker, roaring wildly. They turned in midair, changing direction, and struck Lei Gu as he charged forward!

    With a deafening explosion, lightning swept past. Lei Gu''s burly eight-foot body was instantly scorched ck. His ugly face was smeared with ck blood, and more than half of his sharp teeth had been shattered. He stood in pain and confusion,pletely unaware of what had happened.

    At that moment, the azure sword light before him shed brilliantly. It seemed to be snowing between heaven and earth. Though it was a world of thunder, Lei Gu felt a bone-chilling cold, as if the world had frozen over, snow nketing the sky.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>In this realm of ice and snow, an azure sword shadow glided smoothly. The white-robed, divine-looking youth atop the sword moved smoothly across the frozen expanse, as if riding a snowboard.

    In a heartbeat, Yun Xiao appeared before Lei Gu. From on high, he gazed down at the astonished Thunder Devil. The tip of his six-foot Sovereign Sword slid across Lei Gu''s neck, severing his massive head from his body.

    "Huh?" Lei Gu''s head rested upon the Heaven Burial Sword Soul as the light of the world faded from his eyes.

    He couldn''t fathom what had happened. It seemed he had inexplicably died. Apart from the initial lightning strike, he felt no pain. The cut on his neck was frozen smooth, and not a drop of blood fell.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Lil Gu!"

    That furious, piercing cry was thest sound Lei Gu ever heard. It came from his older brother Lei Zhong.

    He and the other Thunder Devils watched helplessly as Yun Xiao moved with unparalleled grace. One handmanded thunder, one foot guided his sword like a snowboarder on snow. He glided past, and the savage Thunder Devils were beheaded, their corpses resembling works of art.

    As Lei Zhong roared in anger, Yun Xiao pressed his sword downward in midair. The de''s tip lifted high like a dragon raising its head, and Yun Xiao''s posture soared even higher. His prominent nose and calm, disdainful gaze stood in stark contrast to his identity as a celestial ve¡ªa difference as vast as heaven and earth.

    He didn''t pause. He continued sword-riding, skiing through an invisible world of ice and snow, drifting unpredictably toward the group of Thunder Devils.

    Indeed, this Sovereign Sword art was called Snow Feather Flight¡ªa supremely elegant technique from the Harmony Divine Pce. It was categorized in the Burying Heaven grade, beyond the reach of any disciple.

    Not only did Yun Xiao perform it, but he did so with effortless ease. His grace was unparalleled, as if the entire battlefield was his snowy yground.

    He wasn''t killing; he was reveling in the snow.

    Outside the Thunder Punisher Star Barrier, the white-haired, pink-eyed Si Ji watched Yun Xiao''s lofty and elegant disy, rendered speechless.

    The young man in flowing white robesmanded thunder of immense power. His sword traversed heaven and earth, gliding smoothly like a fish. Wherever his six-foot Sovereign Sword passed, the heads of the Thunder Devils inexplicably hung upon it, as if he were picking flowers during his snowy glide.

    "I surrender! Spare me!"

    When Lei Zhong witnessed this terrifying yet breathtaking scene, all his ferocity and brutality vanished. mping his legs together, he trembled and knelt before Yun Xiao, unable to fathom how this celestial ve had be so powerful. All he wanted now was to live.

    But as he knelt, Yun Xiao glided past his head, sending hisrge skull flying. The cut on his neck remained intact, instantly frozen, without a drop of blood spilled.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>After finishing off Lei Zhong, the entire Thunder Punisher Star Barrier gradually returned to silence. The Parent g at the Star Nexus, now undefended, appeared before Yun Xiao.

    He slowly came to a halt, looking like he was actually picking flowers by the roadside. Then, he casually plucked the Thunder Punisher Parent g and tossed down the Extreme Yin Child g.

    As Yun Xiao turned and flew away, the Thunder Punisher Star Barrier behind him underwent a fundamental transformation. A perfect replica of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier emerged in his wake. Only then could one truly see the tracks of his sword upon the snowy expanse.

    Afterwards, the heads of the 20 Thunder Devils collided amidst the swirling snow, slowly arranging themselves into a single name¡ªYun Xiao.

 Chapter 863: Daydreaming Your Life Away

    Lei Ting watched as the Wind Pool Valley disciples were utterly annihted before his eyes. The Thunder Devils who had been so arrogant and fierce moments ago now stood like withered stumps, their faces drawn and lifeless.

    They huddled together, their ferocity entirely gone, seething with frustration.

    No matter how much rage burned in their hearts, they could only swallow it now.

    Lei Ting, whose talents nearly matched an 8-Star Diva, had high hopes of reaching the Eighth Baptism Realm someday. But at this moment, gazing upon the proud Feng Yao before him, it felt as if 1,000 knives were slicing his heart.

    "We''re leaving!" Lei Ting growled, suppressing all his fury as he prepared to retreat.

    "Who said you could leave?" Feng Yao arched an eyebrow and sneered.

    Lei Ting led over a dozen Thunder Devil disciples, striding forward without a backward nce, his anger simmering.

    After a few steps, the green pledge above his head projected a line of text.

    ¡¸<em>Defend the Extreme Yin Star.</em>¡¹Seeing these words, Lei Ting nearly spat blood.

    For at least thest ten Grand Assemblies of Myriad Sects, the Thunder Punisher Star had never been conquered.

    He hadn''t imagined that once their <em>nation </em>fell or they became a vassal state, it would feel so unbearable.

    If Yun Xiao wanted them to target Wind Pool Valley; they had to target it. If he wanted them to stay; they had to stay. Though they might not put forth their full effort in following these orders, they couldn''t defy them outright.

    "Fine, fine!" Lei Ting whipped around, ring daggers at Feng Yao. He sneered, "You and that ve do have some tricks up your sleeves¡ªenough to be called the trump cards of the Harmony Divine Pce. But you know full well that once the Southern Divine Dragon Realm arrives, all you''ve done will be in vain¡ªa futile resistance."

    "Then watch and see," Feng Yao replied with a faint smile. The contempt and disdain in her eyes only fueled Lei Ting''s fury.

    "No problem. I''ll be watching," Lei Ting retorted coldly.

    Feng Yao couldn''t be bothered with him. Keeping Lei Ting here was Yun Xiao''s decision; she didn''t know what he intended.

    But she understood that if she attacked Lei Ting now, and he resisted, he''d be expelled from the Grand Assembly Arena. And Yun Xiao didn''t seem keen on letting these people off easily, especially those who had insulted him.

    "Yao Yao."

    Hai Qing and her sisters gathered around Feng Yao. The hearts of the seven female Martial Immortals were still trembling.

    "Yun Xiao is truly remarkable."

    "Indeed. Good thing you trusted him. We were a bit shortsighted."

    "Next time we see him, we should apologize."

    "There''s no need for you to apologize," Feng Yao said quickly. "That guy only holds grudges against enemies. He''s generous to his own people, especially to beautiful women. That lecher has endless patience." ?

    "Lecher?"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The seven of them stared, question marks practically hovering over their heads. He had been <em>cleansed</em>, and he still had such thoughts? They were puzzled but were too embarrassed to ask.

    "So what should we do next? The zing Yang Sect, Thunder Devil Sect, and Wind Pool Valley are justpdogs of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. When they arrive in person, their strength might be ten times greater..." Hai Qing sensed, from the vicious intent of Wind Pool Valley''s Chi Shenshen, just how aggressive the Southern Divine Dragon Realm would be this time.

    If it were only them, perhaps they still had hope to resist. But clearly, given the Young Dragon Lord''s style, he would surely gather a group of like-minded individuals to bring more bloodshed to the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "Well..." Hearing this, Feng Yao felt a bit uncertain herself. But her strengthy in her carefree spirit; at critical moments, she knew how to cling to someone powerful. She said, "Don''t worry! When soldierse, we''ll fight them; when floodse, we''ll block them."

    Hai Qing and the others exchanged nces, feeling even more uneasy.

    "By the way, has Yun Xiao returned?" Hai Qing asked.

    For some reason, she felt more at ease when that celestial ve was around.

    "Who knows? He can fall off a cliff for all I care," Feng Yao said dismissively. She nced around, excitement shing in her eyes. "Let''s first split the spoils from those Wind Pool Valley scoundrels!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Elsewhere, on the Wind Pool Star, about a dozen disciples stood guard beside the Wind Pool Parent g.

    Among them, Chi Qianqian was the leader. She stood with arms crossed, exuding an air of superiority. The other Wind Pool Valley disciples ttered and fawned,ughing and trying to please her.

    But Chi Qianqian remained indifferent, her delicate nose held high, her face cold as ice.

    "Don''t be impatient. Once the Young Dragon Lord deals with those cheap women, we can follow the talented Southern Divine Dragon Realm and conquer the Heavenly Deity Ster River!" Chi Qianqian scolded sharply when she saw the rest growing restless.

    "Sister Qianqian, I heard the Southern Divine Dragon Realm ns to wipe out the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. That pink Celestial Sourcecore suits us well. Will we be able to get some territory then?" a male disciple ventured, trying to make conversation.

    "Shut up," Chi Qianqian snapped, causing the male disciple to shrink back.

    Though she didn''t answer, they all knew that day was only a matter of time.

    "I heard you and Chi Qianqian have a very close rtionship with the Young Dragon Lord. Once the Southern Divine Dragon Realmmands the Heavenly Deity Ster River, the benefits will only increase!"

    Thinking of the bright futures awaiting these two favored daughters of destiny, everyone felt a pang of envy.

    Chi Qianqian heard their praises, and a slight smile tugged at the corners of her mouth¡ªa tacit acknowledgment.

    "The Young Dragon Lord..." She thought of him and couldn''t help but blush. That had been the most exhrating time for her and her sister. They had experienced what true grandeur meant. The rumors about the Dragon Devil n''s prowess were entirely urate. Initially apprehensive, they soon realized they could handle it and finally let themselves soar among the clouds.

    With this connection, when the Young Dragon Lord rose to be the Dragon Emperor and they helmed Wind Pool Valley, it would forge a thousand-year alliance, bringing both sides even closer.

    They were still without Immortalpanions and shouldn''t have been so indulgent. However, this was personally arranged by their mother, Chi Wushuang, the Valley Master of Wind Pool Valley. The Dragon Devil n was unlikely to marry women from other ns, and the Young Dragon Lord already had awful wife. So, from beginning to end, it would only ever be an extramarital rtionship.

    But for the sisters, that was enough.

    "What is a real man? It has to be someone like the Young Dragon Lord..." Chi Qianqian appeared cold on the surface, but she was lost in her memories, her legs feeling a bit weak.

    Just then, an elegant youth in white robes, holding an azure sword, appeared silently before her like an unassuming breeze.

    "Celestial ve?" She couldn''t believe her eyes. Unaware of the fall of the zing Yang Star and Thunder Punisher Star, or that Chi Shenshen''s entire force had been wiped out without sending any message back, she waspletely caught off guard.

    Yun Xiao''s calm gaze swept over her.

    In the next instant, the three-foot de in his hand transformed into a sh of azure light, tracing a swift arc as it struck toward Chi Qianqian at close range.

    "Damn you!" She hadn''t expected that a supposedly powerless celestial ve would suddenly unleash such lethal intent.

    Startled, Chi Qianqian swiftly summoned her Life Sigil, which transformed into a verdant forest. Thousands of trees seemed to spring up, blocking Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword and halting his deadly strike.

    Her Mid Fourth Baptism Realm cultivation,bined with her Life Sigil housing 500 Rune Prisons, provided substantial short-term defense.

    "You worthless eunuch, you really don''t know when to quit..." Chi Qianqian sneered coldly after deflecting the initial attack.

    But before she could finish her words, a sword light suddenly pierced through her chest. Atop the de was her own spirit¡ªan exact likeness of herself.

    Through the eyes of her spirit, beyond her own body, she saw another spirit manifesting behind her¡ªit was Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit!

    It was a dual strike of body and soul!

    "Huh?"

    Terror surged through Chi Qianqian. Cold sweat poured down her body. Her spirit was pierced, her soul wounded, her Life Sigil trembling and copsing! She sensed impending death.

    But just moments ago, Chi Qianqian had been dreaming of millennia of wonderful times...

    However, Yun Xiao didn''t care what she was thinking. He reimed his Flying Sword, transforming it into a three-foot azure de, and with one stroke, severed her head.

    His Buddha''s Treasure Spirit also severed the head of her spirit.

    It was a double decapitation with one sword!

    Yun Xiao brushed past her, devouring her Seed of Creation and the 500 Rune Prisons of her Life Sigil.

    Her body fell into the storm below. It was over.

    Yun Xiao turned and looked at the dozen or so Wind Pool Valley disciples. They had no fight left in them. Pale with fear, they stepped back, eyes wide, almost ready to kneel and beg for mercy.

    They watched as this celestial ve, the lowest of the low, pulled out their Wind Pool Parent g. Without a word, he turned and left, swift and clean.

    Only after Yun Xiao had gone, and the Wind Pool Star Barrier transformed into the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, did they realize they were drenched in sweat.

    "Quick, inform Chi Shenshen!"

    The Wind Pool Valley disciples were crying out, frantically sending flying talismans. But these were like stones sinking into the sea, with no reply.

    "What do we do?"

    They huddled together, looking at the Wind Pool Star now covered in a raging blizzard, wanting to cry but having no tears.

 Chapter 865: Grand Assembly Rankings!

    "The rankings are out!"

    Amid a chorus of eager voices, 18 radiant, multicolored leaderboards gradually materialized over the Million Starlight Sky Screen.

    On the side of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, it was naturally the Heavenly Deity Rankings.

    This ranking listed 555 positions, with the most eye-catching being the top ten¡ªand especially the very pinnacle.

    Though the Grand Assembly Arena battle had just begun and the rankings were bound to fluctuate, most forces that could pull ahead at the outset surely possessed extraordinary qualities, likely widening the gap andughing till the end.

    At this moment, the forces belonging to the Heavenly Deity Ster River¡ªboth the participants, along with the spectators in the Million Starlight Pce¡ªcast their fiery gazes upon the luminous rankings.

    At the very top, one name shone brighter than all others.

    "Southern Divine Dragon Star''s Eight Divisions Heavenly Dragons!"

    "They''ve already conquered 12 Taiyi Sourcecores, amassing a total power value of 13!"The Southern Divine Dragon was the name of their home world, and the Eight Divisions Heavenly Dragons were the young warriors of the Dragon Devil n, who had chosen this name for their faction.

    Now, the Eight Divisions Heavenly Dragons had seized 12 territories, standing proudly above all rivals in the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    In the previous Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, these geniuses of the Dragon Devil n had also topped the rankings without the backing of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. However, seeing them reach the pinnacle once more still stirred the hearts of the spectators.

    They seemed to witness the birth of a super celestial sect amid the contending heroes of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    Within the Grand Assembly Arena, the young talents of the Dragon Devil n¡ªstrong in numbers and winning over allies¡ªmade everyone see hope for a title defense.

    Compared to the geniuses of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, they had a very distinctive trait.

    The geniuses of the Heavenly Deity Alliance all bore arrogance, priding themselves on their status, and rarely allied with non-Heavenly Deity Alliance sects.

    In contrast, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm weed these medium andrge celestial sects, positioning themselves as the leading force.

    These gifted, numerous, and charismatic Dragon Devil n geniuses had amazed the Million Starlight Pce right off the bat. They easily overshadowed the sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    The spectators in the Million Starlight Pce saw everything clearly. But those within the Grand Assembly Arena were slow to realize the expansion of the Eight Divisions Heavenly Dragons. Outsiders watched anxiously but could do nothing.

    It had to be noted that this significant advantage of the Dragon Devil n was established even as the Young Dragon Lord focused on annihting the Extreme Yin Star.

    The Young Dragon Lord himself hadn''t even participated in the sieges and territorial conquests. Otherwise, being natural war fanatics, the Dragon Devil n would have been even more unstoppable than in thest Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    Of course, people also unsurprisingly saw the Harmony Divine Pce at the front of the rankings.

    "Extreme Yin Star¡ªCarefree Windy Clouds."

    Currently, Carefree Windy Clouds held a power value of four, tying for ninth ce on the rankings. That matched the standards of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. ??

    At this moment, among the top ten, the only non-Heavenly Deity Alliance faction was the rank one Southern Divine Dragon Star¡ªEight Divisions Heavenly Dragons!

    "Ninth?"

    Within the Grand Assembly Arena, in the starry expanse, a group of prodigies looked up, their gazes locking onto the ninth rank Extreme Yin Star¡ªCarefree Windy Clouds. Their expressions were somewhat peculiar.

    These assembled geniuses differed in attire, bearing, and even race. At a nce, it was clear they hailed from many different celestial sects, gathered together. There were 300 of them altogether.

    Martial Immortals, Sword Immortals, Inscription Immortals, and even Anima Immortals were present. There were also demons, devils, and various other unique life-forms.

    Each of these geniuses exuded profound auras and spirited vigor. Their eyes carried an innate arrogance born from deep heritage. They were the dragons among men from various celestial worlds¡ªthe legends of their generation.

    Today, they hade together for amon mission.

    "So, the flying talisman messages from the zing Yang Star, Thunder Punisher Star, and Wind Pool Star were true. That celestial ve named Yun Xiao actually wiped out their three sects," the most striking figure among them said.

    He was a young man in golden robes with dragon horns, standing ten feet tall¡ªas high as a tavern floor. He possessed an innate imperial majesty; his golden eyes zed brilliantly. Unmoving like a mountain, hemanded awe without anger, his aura fierce, earning respect from all.

    The name of the Young Dragon Lord was renowned like thunder in their ears.

    "Those three sects were ranked within the top 30 in thest assembly. I thought they were formidable, but they turned out to be worthless. Not only could they not aplish the simplest task of encirclement, but they even let a eunuch seize their Parent gs," Shen Nanyin said. She clung to the Young Dragon Lord''s arm, her beautiful eyes full of disdain and exasperation.

    Among the 300 geniuses present, only the towering Young Dragon Lord could make her nine-foot-tall figure appear dainty, like a bird leaning close; the others couldn''t suppress her at all.

    d in a tinum battle dress, Shen Nanyin''s golden hair curled and flowed. Her pair of golden dragon horns shone brilliantly. With a slender waist and shapely legs, her proud face featured a high nose and a full, rounded visage.

    Her eyes were haughty, naturally carrying a disdainful expression toward anyone. She was truly like a noble golden dragoness, making all the men and women present feel ashamed and insignificant.

    Bringing such a stunning wife into the public eye didn''t embarrass the Young Dragon Lord at all. Instead, it had an effect the Young Dragon Lord hadn''t anticipated.

    On one hand, it elevated his prestige; on the other, many outsiders in the Million Starlight Pce, who hadn''t witnessed the misogyny of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm firsthand, now saw the Young Dragon Lord and Shen Nanyin as a golden couple, deeply in love. Naturally, their impressions changed dramatically.

    However, when Shen Nanyin arrogantly scorned the three sects, the Young Dragon Lord coolly retorted, "Yang Yang and Lei Ting are Mid Fourth Baptism Realm cultivators; theirbat prowess isn''tcking. That celestial ve''s ability to defeat them shows that the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm''s trump cards are indeed formidable. Lei Ting and the others must have given their all."

    His words undoubtedly earned him goodwill and revealed his magnanimity.

    Many of the geniuses present considered themselves no better than Yang Yang and Lei Ting. Shen Nanyin''s mockery of the three sects was akin to belittling them all. Fortunately, the Young Dragon Lord, with his keen social sense, smoothed things over.

    For a moment, these newly recruited allies all cast respectful nces toward the Young Dragon Lord.

    "You''re right!" Shen Nanyin wasn''t slow to catch on. Realizing her misstep, she gave an awkward smile and said, "Though he''s just a celestial ve, who knows what unspeakable methods those Three Divas used to cultivate him? Perhaps that celestial ve has been fed forbidden substances and turned into a sinister monster. When we encounter him, we should all be cautious."

    Her quick recovery made the group of geniuses feel a bit closer to her as they saw her slightly restrain her arrogance.

    "Lady Dragon Consort speaks truly," someone agreed.

    In the crowd, a clean-cut youth dressed in white smiled and said, "I also think that celestial ve must have been altered internally; perhaps he''s already be a Gu worm in human form."

    "Then, when the timees, the geniuses from your Gu God Star can showcase their talents," Shen Nanyin replied with a smile.

    "Denouncing the Harmony Divine Pce and restoring peace to the hundreds of millions of celestial ves¡­ we await the arrangements of the Young Dragon Lord and Lady Dragon Consort," a white-d woman beside the youth said.

    She was slightly older than the young man, her white robes immacte. Her ck hair cascaded like a waterfall, and her face was gentle and lovely. Though shecked the fiery allure of the Lady Dragon Consort, she possessed an elegant and serene beauty, like a white blossom¡ªpure and natural, drawing every eye.

    Her name was Bai Lu. Together with her younger brother Bai Ao, they were geniuses from the Gu God Star and children of the sect master. Among the prodigies in the Grand Assembly Arena, they enjoyed a respectable reputation.

    When Bai Lu spoke of denouncing the Harmony Divine Pce, it was precisely why so many had gathered here. It was to attack the Extreme Yin Star!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Seeing more and more people arriving in response to his flying talisman summons, the Young Dragon Lord felt deeply satisfied.

 Chapter 867: Going Fishing!

    Beside the Extreme Yin Parent g, Yun Xiao and Feng Yao sat facing each other.

    Within their bodies, the Primordial Void intertwined and merged with Mortal Dust Devil Blood. For them, the ordinary divide between the righteous tinum mist and sinister red mist meant nothing.

    Yun Xiao''s overpowering Yang Voidbined with the softness of the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, forming a perfect blend of strength and gentleness. Enveloped by this power, they seemed like a pair destined by fate, perfectlyplementing each other.

    Around them, Wan Ji''s seven daughters stood, watching with a mix of awe and admiration. They marveled at the harmony of the duo.

    "The invasion of the Dragon Devil n is imminent. Yet, they can still calm their minds to cultivate. Their willpower is truly formidable," Hai Qing remarked softly.

    "Sister, with so little time left, is thisst-minute effort really going to help?" Hai Ying asked, puzzled.

    "I don''t know about others, but for Yao Yao, it will definitely help!" Hai Mo dered with conviction.

    "They really look like a pair of perfect lovers..." Hai Ying sighed again.

    "Don''t speak nonsense," Hai Qing quickly interrupted.No matter how outstanding a celestial ve was, they were still ves. The chasm of status was taboo. Although they admired Yun Xiao, they dared not utter such words openly.

    "It''s true, I can tell their tribtion power has increased significantly!" Hai Mo whispered in surprise.

    "They must have truly broken through," Hai Qing nodded.

    After speaking, she nced uneasily at the sky. An ominous feeling told her that a deadly crisis would soon descend. Everyone in the Million Starlight Pce was already awaiting a grand spectacle of justice vanquishing evil.

    Yun Xiao and Feng Yao''s breakthrough gave her a slight sense of relief.

    "Hah¡­" Amidst the swirling mist, Yun Xiao gradually withdrew the power of the Primordial Void from Feng Yao, and the Mortal Dust Devil Blood within him receded back into her veins.

    In a sense, they were indeed one. Apart from that useless yet alluring delicate body, Feng Yao was but a part of Yun Xiao.

    "Combining the blood of the geniuses from the zing Yang Sect, Wind Pool Valley, and Thunder Devil Sect, along with their Supreme Immortal Jades and elixirs, was only enough for us to break through two stages," Yun Xiao said.

    He''d broken through to the Late Second Baptism Realm, while Feng Yao reached the Late Third Baptism Realm. Though the progress was lightning fast by ordinary standards, he was still unsatisfied.

    "At our current strength, we can''t directly confront the forces that the Young Dragon Lord has gathered at his birthday banquet," Yun Xiao mused. "We''re still a bitcking, We''ll have to take an unconventional path."

    When strength wasn''t enough, intelligence was required to make up the difference.

    Amidst the biting cold and swirling snow, Yun Xiao stood up and turned to Feng Yao. "I''m heading out for a while. I''ll leave everything here to you."

    Feng Yao had just achieved a breakthrough and felt invigorated. She stretchedzily, causing anyone watching to shiver. Hearing his words, she widened her enchanting eyes and asked, "Didn''t you say the Southern Divine Dragon Realm is gathering forces to attack us? You''re leaving now?"

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Where are you going?" Feng Yao asked suspiciously.

    "Fishing," Yun Xiao replied with a faint smile. "The bait is set; now let''s see if any big fish take the hook."

    "Bait?" Feng Yao was utterly puzzled by his words. She always felt he was full of mischief. Grabbing his arm tightly, she said, "Exin yourself clearly. Otherwise, I won''t feel confident guarding our home alone." ??

    "You''re adorably clueless," Yun Xiao teased, pinching her cheek. Then he said casually, "I wiped out everyone from the Wind Pool Star and Thunder Punisher Star, but I spared Yang Yang and Liu Liu from the zing Yang Sect."

    "They''re the bait?" Feng Yao still couldn''t piece it together.

    Yun Xiao let out a cold chuckle. "The Young Dragon Lord hosted a birthday banquet to win over hearts. Those three celestial sects surrounded us at the beginning under his orders. Since he wants to gather a crowd to judge us, he needs to show loyalty to his followers. How could he let memand the disciples of the zing Yang Sect to fight them to the death?"

    "So you''re saying that before the battle begins, someone important will go to the zing Yang Star to rescue them?" Feng Yao asked.

    "He might send a small fish, perhaps a big one, or even a whole school. But since the Young Dragon Lord wants to put on a show without making too much of a fuss, the chances of a big fish are quite high. Moreover, to bring the zing Yang Star under the control of the Southern Divine Dragon Star, it must be someone from the Dragon Devil n," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    Not only did Feng Yao hear this, but Hai Qing and the others overheard as well.

    "You''re so meticulous!" Feng Yao couldn''t help but praise. How could a man possess such a delicate mind?

    "Just shut up," Yun Xiao said, stepping past her. He turned and leaped into the sky, decisively heading off to wait for his big catch.

    "Yao Yao, I have to say, Yun Xiao is truly remarkable," Hai Qing remarked sincerely.

    "He''s just wicked enough," Feng Yao huffed.

    Hearing this, Hai Qing and the others could only offer awkward smiles. They felt increasingly puzzled. How could these two oddballs just be openly flirting right before their eyes?

    Even they could see it clearly; with so many people in the Million Starlight Pce, how could others not notice? Considering their statuses, perhaps all they''d receive was ridicule. Because of this, they felt a mix of emotions.

    "Sisters!" Feng Yao suddenly burst with fervor. Stretching her graceful body, her eyes zed. "Since that''s the case, let''s defend the Extreme Yin Star to the death, fight side by side, and wait for his return!"

    "Yes!" Wan Ji''s seven daughters all agreed. After all, they had no other choice but to do their utmost to defend.

    "What do you think? If the Dragon Devil nes personally, how many will they bring?" Feng Yao asked, uncertain.

    "Possibly more than 100." Hai Ying frowned.

    "Given their influence and caution, it could be 200." Hai Qing shook her head.

    "Pathetic," Feng Yao said with disdain. "Is this so-called Young Dragon Lord so cowardly?"

    In contrast, wherever Yun Xiao went, he was ustomed to charging in alone with a single sword, cutting down all in his path. In Feng Yao''s eyes, that was what a true man was.

    But Hai Qing said anxiously, "The Young Dragon Lord isn''t being cowardly; he''s being prudent. Even a lion uses all its strength to hunt a rabbit. He''s gathering heroes to ensure our Extreme Yin Star''s destruction and to tarnish our name forever."

    "That''s nonsense; he''s just a coward. If he really does bring 200 people, I''d look down on him even more!" Feng Yao said coldly.

    In her heart, a real man wasn''t someone physically imposing, who manipted others andmanded vast influence. No, a real man was like that guy¡ªYun Xiao¡ªwith a noble spirit that soared to the heavens, who disdained colluding with snakes and vermin, and who charged alone with his sword, piercing the very sky!

    No matter what crisis Feng Yao faced, as long as that figure in white was present, she borrowed his might with arrogant confidence, ying gods when she met them, vanquishing demons when she saw them!

    To her, relying on another''s power was not an insult. It was the most sincere and pure admiration from the depths of her heart...

    "Defend the Parent g! Prepare for battle!" Feng Yao''s long legs sprang into action as she leaped back onto the snowy mountain. She drew her bow and nocked an arrow, her eyes aze with fierce determination.

    Inspired by her, Wan Ji''s daughters were also filled with fighting spirit. Gritting their teeth, they steeled themselves, ready to face their formidable enemies in a bloody battle.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Back on the zing Yang Star, a young man in white hovered in the silent, perilous void of space, watching as the raging blizzard on zing Yang Star''s surface began to change.

    From ice and snow, it transformed into zing dragon breath, burning fiercely!

    The zing Yang Star had changed once again! This meant it had been conquered by a new force.

    Gazing at the now even more intensely burning zing Yang Star, Yun Xiao shook his head and sneered. "So-called rules are often suppressed by personal connections and power.

    "This is the effect of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm forming alliances everywhere and swaying people''s hearts. No game rules can change this, and the ancestors allowed it because in real celestial wars, this kind of situation is even moremon!

    "In the real world, the zing Yang Sect is just a pawn of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. If the Harmony Divine Pce truly wants to subdue them and make them fight against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, it''s nothing but a dream."

    Of course, Yun Xiao didn''t care about any of this. In his eyes, aside from overwhelming power that crushed everything, all else was mere illusion.

    He only cared about fish! Big fish! Big, fat, and beautiful fish! And she had arrived! Yun Xiao had already seen her!

    Just moments ago, the zing Yang Parent g in Yun Xiao''s hand had flown into hers. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    On the Heavenly Deity Rankings, the Eight Divisions Heavenly Dragon''s score increased by one point, while Carefree Windy Cloud''s score decreased by one point.

    This person was none other than the Young Dragon Consort, Shen Nanyin. Having captured the zing Yang Parent g andpleted the task assigned by her husband, she was in high spirits, a proud smile gracing her pretty face.

    "Ridiculous! A grown man, castrated by a celestial ve, hiding far away, not even daring to look me in the eye," she mocked.

    She was referring, of course, to Yang Yang.

    Yang Yang didn''t dare face her; how could he then follow her to rendezvous with the Young Dragon Lord to seek revenge on the Extreme Yin Star?

    Liu Liu was also worried about him and could only stay behind.

    So, Shen Nanyin quietly flew through the starry void, her demeanor elegant and confident, victory assured.

    Her nine-foot-tall graceful figure blended into the dark cosmos; without a reference point, she didn''t appear overly tall. Until a white-robed figure, standing nearly six feet tall, appeared before her!

    That figure in white had been waiting here for a long time, but Shen Nanyin was still startled when she suddenly saw him.

    The two met in the starry expanse, one above the other.

    Shen Nanyin quickly regained herposure. She frowned slightly, flew above Yun Xiao, and looked down at him, her lips curving into a mocking smile. "Castrated dog, you wouldn''t be waiting here just for me, would you?"

    After saying that, she couldn''t help butugh. Rolling her eyes, she snorted lightly, "Come on, a rootless man like you¡ªwhere would you get the courage? Running into me here is just bad luck for you."

    In just a few words, Shen Nanyin reversed the roles, making it seem like she had cornered Yun Xiao.

    Such was her pride as a member of the Dragon Devil n!

    She crossed her arms, her curly golden hair draped over one shoulder, like a grand golden dragoness. With a condescending and teasing gaze, she looked at this little white dog before her.

    Yun Xiao''s eyes moved slowly from her pretty face downward, taking in every exquisite detail of this towering beauty.

    His bold gaze stirred Shen Nanyin''s deep contempt. She sneered, "You''re looking at me? With you being just a castrated dog, even if I stood here without a stitch of clothing, besides drooling, what else could you do?"

    She ced one hand on her hip, proudly arching her body into a captivating curve, utterly enticing.

    From the start, she had been talkative and sharp-tongued. Now, emboldened by her backing, she mocked and taunted without restraint.

    She was the Young Dragon Consort, backed by the Golden Dragon Emperor and Southern Divine Dragon Realm. What did she have to fear? Mocking Yun Xiao was also a way to scorn the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm...

 Chapter 869: Dont Get the Wrong Idea!

    Yun Xiao''s eyes were cold and deep as he looked at the slightly flushed, panicked yet undeniably graceful face before him. He and Shen Nanyin were alone together, with no one to save her.

    In a shameful posture, Shen Nanyin knelt straddling before Yun Xiao, her hands raised high over her shoulders, bound to her feet.

    The battle armor before her lifted high, as if offering a precious treasure to Yun Xiao.

    Her jade-like nose stood high and proud, her pupils trembling as she gazed at this white-robed youth. Though he seemed like a child to her, his intensely aggressive eyes threw Shen Nanyin''s heart into disarray.

    "I am the Young Dragon Consort of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, noble and pure, and he is a lowly celestial ve. Even if he can''t truly defile me, if he goes mad, he can still humiliate me!"

    Though arrogant, Shen Nanyin was not without reason. Yun Xiao had directly killed Lei Ting and the others¡ªa reckless desperado who cared nothing for consequences. The barefoot feared no one in shoes. For someone of her noble stature, even if his life were offered up ten times over, it still wouldn''t equal one of her!

    Thinking of this, Shen Nanyin drew upon the qualities honed from being frequently mistreated by the Young Dragon Lord¡ªflexible and adaptable. She quickly shed her previous arrogance and haughtiness, her eyes filling with tears, appearing pitiful and touching as she said to Yun Xiao, "I admit yourbat prowess and talent are astonishing. You''re definitely among the top here in the Grand Assembly Arena. I truly underestimated you before and was disrespectful. I''m sincerely sorry!"

    Yun Xiao stood before her, reaching out to tap the violently trembling curve of her battle armor, producing a thumping sound. He looked at Shen Nanyin''s proud, high nose and asked with a smile, "You''ve insulted me so many times, and now with a few kind words, you expect me to let you go? Isn''t that a bit naive?"

    "I was wrong!" Shen Nanyin, true to her training under the Young Dragon Lord, was wildly arrogant when rampant and thoroughly meek when cowed. She stared at Yun Xiao''s hand¡ªthat hand made her fearful. If they were alone, it might be fine; no matter how audacious a celestial ve was, he couldn''t truly cost her anything.But now, countless millions were watching this event unfolding in the Million Starlight Pce!

    More critically, women like her from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªqualified to be legitimate wives of prestigious families¡ªwere bound by noble taboos. Even being touched once would ruin Shen Nanyin''s life in the eyes of the prideful Young Dragon Lord.

    Her heart pounded wildly as she desperately tried to calm herself, softening her demeanor as she gently persuaded Yun Xiao, "I apologize for offending you earlier! Honestly, with your talent, you don''t need to risk your life for the Harmony Divine Pce. They emascted you; they wronged you terribly. Now that the Harmony Divine Pce is at a dead end, why not let me introduce you to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm? I assure you, you can receive the treatment of a top genius! There''s no need to waste your life for those women who hurt you."

    "Finished talking?" Yun Xiao tugged on the ck dragon chains, wrapping them around her entire body. The chains encircled her jade-like neck, sinking into the immortal armor, making her figure even more striking.

    "Wait! There''s more!" Shen Nanyin gasped nervously, on the verge of tears. She choked out, appearing utterly sincere, "We''ll discuss what happens after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sectster. For now, I can offer you my Personal Pledge. From now on, I''ll follow yourmands. Is that eptable? You want to oppose the Young Dragon Lord, and with it, I can help you!"

    "Your Personal Pledge?" Yun Xiao pulled on the ck dragon chains, pinching her chin. His thumb pressed into her red lips as he spoke coldly, "You say I''m a lowly celestial ve that you all despise, and you''re just the Young Dragon Consort with no real authority. After the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects ends, how could I possibly be weed with open arms?"

    If Yun Xiao really believed her, he''d be a fool.

    Such feuds, once started, wouldn''t end unless Yun Xiao''s talent was so formidable that it truly scared the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. And Yun Xiao had yet to truly reveal his hand¡­

    "T-that''s why I''m offering you my Personal Pledge! I''ll help you and those snake women. It also follows the rules!" Shen Nanyin hurriedly responded.

    "You''re treating me like a fool again." Yun Xiao smiled coldly.

    "What?" Shen Nanyin was stunned.

    Yun Xiao pinched the corner of her mouth, twisting her lips into a pout, stripping the noble and pure Young Dragon Consort of her dignity and grace.

    He looked into Shen Nanyin''s wide, staring eyes and said calmly, "A Personal Pledge might work for most people, but not for you. Once I have your pledge, if you attack me, you can eliminate yourself and escape danger, right? The Southern Divine Dragon Realm doesn''tck women like you." ?

    Shen Nanyin''s thoughts were easily pierced, her mind went nk, unable to think of another way. She could only pretend to be pitiful and choke out, "So, what do you want to do?"

    "I don''t believe in rules. I only believe in myself."

    As Yun Xiao spoke, the Corona above his head suddenly shed, transforming into a massive Primordial Sphere that engulfed both him and Shen Nanyin. The Primordial Sphere continued to swirl and solidify, bing as imprable as a copper wall, creating a sealed space within the starry expanse.

    This pure white Primordial Sphere not only blocked the view of Si Ji not far away but also obscured the screen of the Million Starlight Pce!

    This was indeed astonishing!

    The designers of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects had meticulously ounted for people trying to act in secret, making it very difficult for young people to keep secrets within the surveince of the Grand Assembly Arena.

    But Yun Xiao had done it!

    After all, their location wasn''t on the Taiyi Sourcecore; it was remote, and the recording formation wasn''t strong.

    At the moment the white wall obscured people''s vision, Shen Nanyin''s panicked voice echoed from within the Primordial Sphere.

    "What are you doing? Ah! Ah! No! Please! Stop! Wuuu..."

    The Primordial Sphere, apanied by Shen Nanyin¡¯s hysterical, despair-stricken cries, truly swayed like a balloon in the starry expanse.

    Such delicate sounds reached the Grand Assembly Arena, making it hard for anyone not to imagine what was unfolding inside¡­

    ¡°Yun Xiao!¡±

    Not far away, the beautiful Diva with white hair and pink eyes clenched her fists tightly. Her face, more stunning than Shen Nanyin¡¯s, was covered in frost.

    She didn¡¯t know why, but suddenly she was furious, so angry that she almost broke the rules to extinguish the Primordial Sphere!

    For the sake of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, she restrained herself!

    She could only hide here, seething with anger, listening to Shen Nanyin¡¯s cries inside the Primordial Sphere¡ªfrom sharp, desperate screams to strange murmurs and sleepy mutterings.

    It was as if she had fallen into a dream, and the sounds sparked endless imaginings.

    Meanwhile, inside the Primordial Sphere, Yun Xiao was somewhat speechless.

    ¡°Are you crazy?¡± Yun Xiao had merely transformed the Prison Warden Sigil into a spirit state, activated the Soulfire Eye at his brow, to brainwash her and nt a genuine <em>Personal Pledge</em>. But seeing the Young Dragon Consort cry like that made it easy for outsiders to get the wrong idea.

    It was truly embarrassing!

    Now that Yun Xiao had be an Anima Immortal, with the formidable Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, he directly used its soul power to power the Soulfire Eye. The violet dragon light from the Soulfire Eye shone closely into Shen Nanyin¡¯s eyes!

    At first, the violet light caused her soul great pain, which was why she screamed so miserably. As the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit fully integrated, she fell into a trance, beginning to murmur and hum softly, as if drunk in a dream.

    As time passed, her tense, delicate body gradually rxed, softening down. Her eyes showed a drunken expression, and within her pupilsy the head of her spirit.

    Yun Xiao gradually inscribed the mark of the violet nine-headed dragon. Perhaps because she possessed dragon blood, this soul invasion went quite smoothly.

    ¡°Aplete puppet would be easier to expose. I¡¯d better leave some of her true nature intact.¡±

    Thinking of this, Yun Xiao removed the mark of the violet nine-headed dragon from one of her eyes. Once the mark was lifted, Shen Nanyin¡¯s entranced, pretty face finally regained some of her own will.

    ¡°You!¡± Shen Nanyin awoke, clutching her battle armor while staring at Yun Xiao with a heart-wrenching re.

    Upon realizing her armor was intact, she froze, then looked at Yun Xiao with confused eyes, shifting between anger and intoxication.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Call me master,¡± Yun Xiao said.

    ¡°Master, ma¡ª¡±

 Chapter 870: Hes Just an Impotent Slave!

    Shen Nanyin struggled to speak. After she finished, she was still a bit dazed, staring nkly at Yun Xiao as if she couldn''t fathom how she came to both revere and fear him.

    "Indeed, more effective than the Personal Pledge." Yun Xiao was pleased with his handiwork. As he removed the Primordial Sphere, he waved his hand and said, "Go back and find your Young Dragon Lord. Listen to my arrangements from now on."

    "Alright, alright..." Shen Nanyin shook her head.

    Under Yun Xiao''s precise control, as the Primordial Sphere dissipated, Shen Nanyin''s anger and sorrow surged once more. Her eyes welled with tears as she red fiercely at Yun Xiao.

    "You will face retribution sooner orter!"

    With that, Shen Nanyin twisted her waist and turned, stealing away as if in a frenzy with her Sovereign Sword. Yun Xiao didn''t know when, but he had already released her from the ck dragon chain.

    Watching her fiery silhouette disappear, Red Moon felt deep sorrow andmented, "Stinky bro, what a waste! Weren''t you greedy, wrathful, foolish, and lustful? People humiliate you every time, yet you don''t retaliate?"

    "Your bro has standards. Don''t make a fuss." Yun Xiao rolled his eyes. After speaking, he gave a faint smile and added, "Besides, the real show is just beginning. She still has use. What''s the rush?"

    "I''ll trante for you!" Blue Star leaned down at his belly to Red Moon''s face and clicked his tongue. "Wine needs to be aged to be mellow."Red Moon suddenly understood and praised, "As expected of our bro, truly patient."

    "That''s enough out of you little shits¡­!" Yun Xiao coughed.

    It must be said that such a nine-foot giantess'' talent was indeed exaggerated in its allure. But with Si Ji nearby and countless eyes observing... it was better to have restraint!

    "Yun Xiao!"

    A cold voice rang out from behind. Sure enough, Si Ji was watching, and she cared!

    "What did you do to her just now?" she asked.

    Yun Xiao turned around to see that stunning Diva with white hair and pink eyes, her face cold as ice.

    "I controlled her soul," Yun Xiao admitted frankly.

    Si Ji had been angry, but upon hearing those words, she hesitated and asked, "Do you actually have that power?"

    "I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve," Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    Noticing the implication in his words, Si Ji set a stern expression, secretly thinking that this celestial ve was bing more audacious by the day. Once she became a Boundless Immortal, she vowed to chop off his hands to avenge her disgrace, ensuring he had no remaining roguish tricks left to y.

    With this thought, she felt somewhat relieved and said, "What you did just now could easily be misunderstood by outsiders."

    "They all know. I''m a celestial ve; there''s nothing I can do," Yun Xiao responded.

    "Anyway, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm strictly forbids this matter. Even if you''re a celestial ve, they would see you as desecrating Shen Nanyin," Si Ji answered seriously.

    "Isn''t that a good thing?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Good? After the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects ends, you don''t want to live anymore, do you?" she retorted, exasperated.

    "Time will drag on a bit longer; they are the ones who won''t survive," Yun Xiao replied calmly.

    "You..." Si Ji continued sternly, "Do you really think that having you will ensure I be a Boundless Immortal? My destiny hasn''t even been set yet. By then, I might not even save you."

    She had misunderstood Yun Xiao, thinking he was cing his hopes on her.

    Yun Xiao smiled and said, "Diva, I''m dedicating my life to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. You must treat me kindly."

    "Get lost," Si Ji red at him. She couldn''t understand why, despite being a ve, she was increasingly concerned about him. These conversations always carried a strange undertone of jealousy.

    "How do you n to use this Shen Nanyin? Is your soul control method reliable?" She shifted the topic.

    "Whether it''s reliable or not, we''ll know once we go and see together," Yun Xiao answered earnestly.

    "Within the Grand Assembly Arena, the Dragon Devil n knows nothing of your confrontation with Shen Nanyin. Do you intend to use this Young Dragon Consort to repel the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s attack?" Si Ji asked curiously.

    "Women are the bane of men," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "Be quiet, you!" Si Ji snapped. Saying such things in front of a Diva, with other celestial ves around, would be impossible.

    Yun Xiao smiled silently, turned, and with his Sovereign Sword, chased after Shen Nanyin.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    A huge uproar was urring in the Million Starlight Pce, especially in the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s section.

    Countless eyes focused on the Dragon Devil n, particrly on the Golden Dragon Emperor, the father-inw.

    From the instant Shen Nanyin was defeated, every moment under the Million Starlight Sky Screen had been an unbearable disgrace, transforming into sharp swords piercing all the men of the Dragon Devil n.

    The Young Dragon Consort was bound in such a shameful manner, like a dark cloud hanging over every Dragon Devil n man¡¯s head, igniting bursts of angry sniffs and frenzied roars.

    Then, the appearance of the Primordial Sphere and Shen Nanyin''s screams instantly blew the entire scene apart.

    "This¡­ This¡­!¡±

    Tens of thousands were left speechless on the spot, their faces turning pale as they shouted with trembling voices.

    To them, this sight was more astonishing than a toad pressing against a swan. It was like a hyena clinging to the Golden Female Holy Dragon¡­

    The heat wave from the Million Starlight Pce surged to its peak!

    ¡°Shut up!!!¡±

    Fortunately, in the next instant, a middle-aged member of the Dragon Devil n dressed in a white and gold dragon robe stood up, his face cold as ice, roaring, ¡°What nonsense are you spouting? This person is a rootless eunuch dog. What right does he have to act recklessly?¡±N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The speaker was Shen Nanyin''s father, also one of the top Dragon Kings of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, known as the Eastguard Dragon King. His name echoed powerfully across the Samsara Gxy.

    With his thunderous roar, many forgotten individuals remembered.

    ¡°Yes! Thank goodness, he¡¯s a celestial ve!¡±

    ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s impotent!¡±

    ¡°Of course, there''s no need to spread nonsense!¡±

    This was a matter of n-wide shame. So, the celestial sects surrounding the Southern Divine Dragon Realm understood the gravity of the situation and quickly assisted the Eastguard Dragon King in calming the scene.

    And so, the earlier uproar gradually subsided.

    However, though the crowd no longer shouted, their minds remained sharp. While it was certain that he was an impotent celestial ve, judging by Shen Nanyin''s voice, what had transpired within the white sphere was somewhat unsettling!

    Even if Yun Xiao were an impotent celestial ve, it did appear as though the Young Dragon Lord had been cucked. The fact that it was a ve who''d done it was a humiliation in itself.

    "That celestial ve is truly mad; he''s doomed!"

    "He has no aspirations yet dares to act recklessly. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm will be enraged and surely destroy the Harmony Divine Pce!"

    "Did you see that? The powerhouses of the Dragon Devil n didn''t speak, their expressions as sharp as des! It shows that even a celestial ve has touched their reverse scales!"

    "Dragons have reverse scales; touching them means death!"

    "What about the Young Dragon Consort? Has she been defiled..."

    "Of course not! What can that celestial ve do? Just extend his hand, which only makes him look more pitiful. It''s just that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s divine might cannot be desecrated, and that''s the big issue!"

    "Watch, that celestial ve will surely die a terrible death. For a mere urge, he won''t even manage to die!"

    "What a pitiful and wretched rootless person..."

    Countless people murmured, lively as ever.

    "This kid..."

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had almost forgotten Yun Xiao was a celestial ve and couldn''t help but cover her face, unwilling to look. Now, realizing what had urred, her heart was filled with mixed emotions.

    "He''s just a celestial ve; what he''s doing makes no sense, only igniting hatred and anger on both sides... But it doesn''t make a difference anyway."

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen could only say that clearly, the hatred was meant for the Three Divas and Feng Yao. Yet, by his own power, Yun Xiao had drawn the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s most intolerable wrath onto himself!

    "Sigh, in this case, he might as well truly enjoy it. What a pity, being a celestial ve, purged of body, only with empty aspirations, truly pitiful..." The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen couldn''t help but feel sympathy for Yun Xiao.

    Truthfully speaking, the uproar happening in the Million Starlight Pce did not escape Yun Xiao''s calctions.

    "Hehe." Yun Xiao''s heart remained unshaken, riding his Sovereign Sword across the starry expanse.

    Ahead, Shen Nanyin''s delicate figure was just disappearing into the ranks of the assembled 400 prodigies¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    ¡°Yes! Thank goodness, he¡¯s a celestial ve!¡±

    ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s impotent!¡±

    ¡°Of course, there''s no need to spread nonsense!¡±</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 871: Young Heroes, Follow Me!

    ¡°Uhhh¡­¡± Shen Nanyin shook her head, trying to snap out of her daze. As she tried to focus, the mark of a violet, nine-headed dragon flickered past her left pupil. And on the dragon shimmered a faint golden lotus. ¡°This feeling is really strange¡­"

    "Nanyin," the Young Dragon Lord called out. Then, he had the swift-moving procession of prodigiese to a halt.

    ¡°Dear husband.¡± Shen Nanyin pushed aside the chaotic thoughts. She rode her 12-foot-long Sovereign Sword toward the Young Dragon Lord.

    Previously, Shen Nanyin had always respectfully addressed him by his title. But this time, entering the Grand Assembly Arena, the Young Dragon Lord had specifically instructed her to call him <em>husband</em> in front of others.

    This move was also intended to dispel the rumors that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm was misogynistic.

    Surprisingly, it was quite effective for the ordinary people.

    Moreover, after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects began, the Young Dragon Lord¡¯s attitude toward Shen Nanyin had made aplete 180-degree turn¡ªfrom insults, beatings, and trampling to respect, understanding, and care. Although Shen Nanyin knew this was a performance demanded by the elders, she was still overwhelmed by the favor.

    So, she had always been obedient, cooperating with the Young Dragon Lord.

    ¡°The mission is sessfullypleted. Here are the Parent gs of the zing Yang Sect, Thunder Devil Sect, and Wind Pool Valley." Shen Nanyin smiled with pride and handed the three Parent gs to the Young Dragon Lord.The Young Dragon Lord, pleased to receive the gs, specially asked, ¡°How was it? Didn¡¯t you encounter any danger or get injured?¡±

    Shen Nanyin still felt some stabbing pain in her ribs. When the Young Dragon Lord asked, she recalled how Yun Xiao suppressed and humiliated her. Her heart should have ignited with anger¡­ But quickly, the anger dissipated inexplicably. It was as if she couldn¡¯t control her mouth, and she replied to the Young Dragon Lord, ¡°No, I didn¡¯t encounter anyone.¡±

    After saying this, she felt tormented inside, not understanding why she was in such a struggling and helpless state. She clearly knew she couldn¡¯t deceive the Young Dragon Lord. So, why did she lie?

    Furthermore, Shen Nanyin also clearly knew that Yun Xiao was the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s arch-enemy. Why would she cover for him?

    The onlookers in the Million Starlight Pce knew that something had happened between Shen Nanyin and Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao had weakened the soul-capturing effect of the Soulfire Eye, leaving her in a state of conflicted obedience and anger, torn between rejecting andplying with his orders.

    ¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re safe!¡± the Young Dragon Lord said, failing to notice the conflict in her expression. By securing the three Parent gs, he had shown his generosity toward his followers!

    Before him stood 400 prodigies of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Seeing the three Parent gs and witnessing the Extreme Yin Star drop out of the top 100 in the Heavenly Deity Rankings, while the Southern Divine Dragon Star had already surpassed the top 20¡­ Such a disparity only solidified their resolve!

    ¡°With those three stars rescued, the Young Dragon Lord has been unshackled! Now, he can lead us to wipe out the menace of the Extreme Yin Star!¡± Bai Lu praised.

    Among the 400 prodigies, she held great prestige as the young leader of the Gu God Sect. Many young people naturally echoed her words.

    ¡°Mhm!¡± The Young Dragon Lord was pleased.

    Most of these prodigies before him were gathered at his birthday banquet. Their loyalty to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm was generally less than that of the zing Yang Sect, Thunder Devil Sect, and Wind Pool Valley. But now, they were all determined to follow him with full force.

    ¡°This is what it means to be a wise and capable leader!¡±

    Whether the conflict between the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was <em>truly </em>one of good versus evil was irrelevant. It was simply the natural order. The strong preyed on the weak. The victor was king and the loser a bandit!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Naturally, the prodigies assembled here today nned to support the king! This was an unspoken tacit understanding. Justice was simply a convenient banner.

    The Young Dragon Lord¡¯s high-profile favoritism toward Shen Nanyin was also to raise this banner, fooling the masses of the Samsara Gxy.

    He was demonstrating strength to those above, and justice to those below. This was the foundation of a rising superpower!

    Those at the same level would see the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s might, and those beneath would see their righteousness!

    So, rivals would submit in fear, and the masses would bow in worship.

    ¡°The path to hegemony is none other than this.¡± The Young Dragon Lord fully grasped this wisdom of his ancestors; otherwise, with his natural temperament, he''d never dote on a shameless woman like Shen Nanyin, even if it was just for show.

    He couldn''t see what was happening in the Million Starlight Pce, unaware that his <em>doting </em>was being seen in a very different light. It was as if he were scribbling <em>cuckold </em>all over his face.

    Surprisingly, the more the Young Dragon Lord looked at Shen Nanyin, the more pleasing to the eye she seemed. Why hadn¡¯t he felt before that she was quite tempting? Perhaps because she had always been within easy reach!

    "Young heroes, follow me to conquer the Extreme Yin Star!¡±

    The momentum of the Young Dragon Lord''s faction was overwhelming. Their morale was soaring, and their hearts were united. At this moment, it was the crucial time to fulfill the historical mission bestowed by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    And so, the 400 prodigies charged toward the Extreme Yin Star with burning eyes.

    With many against few, their momentum was naturally like a rainbow.

    Rays of celestial light soared across the starry void. Along the way, disciples of the lower and middle celestial sects trembled in fear at the sight of such arge force.

    When they realized this was the Young Dragon Lord''s crusade to overthrow the tyranny of the Extreme Yin Star, many eagerly volunteered their strength. Before long, a grand army to free the celestial ves was formed.

    Everything yed out ording to the Young Dragon Lord¡¯s meticulous nning!

    Everything was going smoothly!

    However, just as the Young Dragon Lord was envisioning a grand future, a furious shout came from not far behind.

    ¡°Impudent!¡±

    The voice was soft and sweet, all too familiar to the Young Dragon Lord. It was Shen Nanyin''s voice.

    He felt a slight confusion and suddenly turned around, only to see Shen Nanyin clutching her chest armor, her face full of indignation, pointing at a young man in white not far away.

    The young man in white stood frozen. Why was the Young Dragon Consort so angry? What had happened? The once unstoppable expedition force came to an abrupt halt, and everyone looked at her and the young man in white in confusion.

    ¡°Who is she pointing at?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s looking at the Gu God Star''s Bai Ao, Bai Lu¡¯s younger brother!¡±

    Seeing Shen Nanyin¡¯s reddened eyes and tear-filled gaze, everyone was momentarily baffled.

    The Young Dragon Lord, with a stern face, returned and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±

    Seeing him, Shen Nanyin instinctively trembled, lowering her head in grievance. ¡°It¡¯s nothing, we must prioritize the greater good.¡±

    Meanwhile, Bai Lu, the goddess-like senior sister, approached her brother, urgently whispering, ¡°What have you done!¡±

    Before Bai Ao could respond, the Young Dragon Lord, noticing Shen Nanyin¡¯s pitiful state, sternly demanded, ¡°If there¡¯s something wrong, just say it!¡±

    Feeling deeply wronged, Shen Nanyin cried and threw herself into his arms, her voice trembling, ¡°I can¡¯t take it anymore. This brat has been oogling me ever since I returned!¡±

    Considering her earlier action of clutching her chest armor, everyone immediately understood what she was referring to.

    For a moment, everyone¡¯s expressions became awkward, especially the men.

    Indeed, they all admitted that the Young Dragon Consort was quite eye-catching in this regard. If they wanted to look, they would, but out of courtesy and respect for her status, they could only avoid her gaze as much as possible.

    And if a young boy couldn¡¯t control himself, that was understandable¡­

    Shen Nanyin¡¯s words undoubtedly made everyone present feel embarrassed.

    ¡°Bai Ao, you!¡± Bai Lu¡¯s face fell, and she pped her brother sharply, scolding him, ¡°You¡¯re so rude. Kneel and apologize to the Young Dragon Lord and Young Dragon Consort immediately!¡±

 Chapter 872: Dragons Rage

    "Sis! I didn''t!" Bai Ao recoiled as if he''d been struck by lightning. He quickly shook his head. "I swear, I didn''t look at her. If I''m lying, let the heavens strike me down!"

    "What do you mean?! Are you using me without reason? You uneducated little brat, you dare to act cheap but won''t admit it?" Shen Nanyin was initially aggrieved, but hearing these words made her furious. She red angrily at the young man in white.

    "Young Dragon Consort..." Bai Lu had hoped her brother would admit his mistake and that this awkward situation would pass. But in just a few sentences, it escted to name-calling, and her anger ignited even more.

    "Sis! I really didn''t look!" Bai Ao clenched his sister''s hand, tears streaming down his face.

    "You still dare to argue!" Shen Nanyin was also crying with rage. Her face was full of indignation as she tightly grasped her husband''s hand, biting her lip. "You little bastard, in the end, it''s me who used you? What kind of ce is the Gu God Star that produces a coward like you who dares to act but won''t take responsibility! If you had even a shred of manners, as a woman, would I have to ruin my reputation to educate you?"

    Shen Nanyin was hysterical, as she''d been utterly wronged, her emotions genuine. Plus, this incident was tarnishing her reputation, causing some whispers among the onlookers.

    "Bai Lu, that child is rude and has offended the Young Dragon Consort. Hurry and make him admit his mistake and kneel. If this matter esctes, it will be embarrassing."

    "Yes!"

    Several friends nearby came over to quietly advise Bai Lu."But I understand my brother..." Bai Lu knew she couldn''t voice this thought. The other party was powerful, and the more Bai Ao denied it, the more embarrassed the Young Dragon Consort became. This nonsensical situation would only blow up.

    She could only grit her teeth, press Bai Ao''s shoulder, and force him to kneel, shouting, "Quickly kowtow to the Young Dragon Consort! Then leave the Grand Assembly Arena immediately and let Father discipline you!"

    Upon hearing this, Bai Ao felt like he had been struck by lightning on a clear day. His eyes turnedpletely red. The boy couldn''t stand being unjustly used. Fueled by anger, he didn''t understand the bigger picture or that his sister was trying to save him. He struggled to his feet, roaring at Shen Nanyin, "I''ll say it again! I didn''t look at you! I didn''t look! I didn''t look! You''re the one who''s falsely using me!"

    With those words, the entire crowd fell silent.

    Bai Lu was also stunned.

    "Waaah, you bastard..." Shen Nanyin cried.

    At that moment, the Young Dragon Lord found himself caught in this awkward situation. As themander of a united army, a man who adored his wife and was beloved by the people, he felt torn in two different directions by his duties, almost splitting himself apart.

    Should he continue to cherish and maintain his image, preserving face, or should he keep winning people''s hearts?

    When these two points conflicted, the Young Dragon Lord was momentarily disoriented.

    "The Young Dragon Lord of the prestigious Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªhow dare some roadside mutts desecrate your woman, and yet you still have to kowtow to them? Are you part of the Dragon Devil n?" Shen Nanyin eximed bitterly, then lowered her head, choking back tears. "I''m sorry, this little beast has overstepped. I just can''t bear such humiliation..." ?

    There was no denying she knew exactly how to provoke the Young Dragon Lord!

    His eyes, at that moment, resembled volcanic craters, spewing moltenva.

    "As everyone knows, a woman would never stake her reputation on falsely using a man, so this Bai Ao..." a man from the Dragon Devil n spoke coldly.

    "Young Dragon Lord!" Sensing his wrath, Bai Lu quickly bowed her head and hurriedly said, "I apologize on behalf of my brother! I will have him expelled from the Grand Assembly Arena immediately. In the future, my father will personally go to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to make amends to you all!"

    "Dig out his eyes and get out," the Young Dragon Lord suddenly dered. His voice was not loud, but it was resolute.

    Bai Lu was stunned, her face turning unpleasant as she murmured, "Isn''t that unnecessary..."

    In her heart, even if her brother had looked, it would have been just a few nces. She had already promised to have their father go to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to apologize. Wasn''t that enough?

    The disciples of the other celestial sects heard this and felt a chill. To serve a ruler was like serving a tiger; they feared this incident might happen to themselves!

    "Are you going to dig them out, or should I?" the Young Dragon Lord replied coldly.

    This was his true nature¡ªcruel to others, harsh to his wife. There was no sense of righteousness or genuine affection; it was all an act.

    But now, with a single word from Shen Nanyin, his deeply ashamed heart forced his true feelings to surface.

    "Young Dragon Lord! I will dig them out myself!"

    Unexpectedly, after saying this, Bai Ao let out a roar, suddenly thrusting both hands into his eyes, forcibly gouging them out. His hands were covered in blood!

    Then he turned towards Shen Nanyin and hysterically shouted, "I have someone I love! I didn''t even nce at you! I don''t know why you have to falsely use me, but let me tell you, our Gu God Star would never pledge loyalty to people like you..."

    "Shut up!" Bai Lu was utterly heartbroken. She quickly covered her brother''s mouth and shielded his eyes, hoping that if they acted swiftly, his eyes could be repaired. But if they continued to defy the Young Dragon Lord, she was certain that the disciples of the Gu God Star would all die here!

    "Young Dragon Lord! We''re truly sorry. This child has spoken nonsense and dared to act without responsibility. We''ll take him away now so as not to interfere with your great mission to eliminate evil," Bai Lu hurriedly said.

    As she spoke, the people from the Gu God Star gathered together, forcibly restraining Bai Ao, preparing to leave.

    "Stop!" The Young Dragon Lord coldly raised his head, his eyes burning with golden mes. His ten-foot-tall stature exuded an oppressive force.

    Bai Lu trembled all over, sensing the lethal intent.

    "He did it himself. It doesn''t count," the Young Dragon Lord dered.

    "Young Dragon Lord..." Bai Lu pleaded, her face desperate as she prepared to kneel.

    Unexpectedly, the Young Dragon Lord waved his hand andmanded the 20 Dragon Devil n geniuses beside him, "Take them down!"

    That singlemand clearly indicated that Bai Ao''s stubbornness had escted his anger, affecting the entire Gu God Star.

    Those Dragon Devil n members immediately sprang into action!

    This demonstrated that although the Young Dragon Lord was harsh to his wife, his possessiveness and desire for control over women were exceedingly strong, even more so than the average person.

    Upon hearing this, Bai Lu''s face fell into despair. She realized there was no way to exin it away and had no choice but to urgently shout to the other disciples of the Gu God Star, "Break through, go!"

    What should have been a simple resolution through kneeling and admitting fault had escted to this point, leaving her feeling helpless.

    Throughout this ordeal, the Young Dragon Lord''s cold-bloodedness and cruelty struck a severe blow to her, someone who revered strength.

    The Dragon Devil n pursued, and the disciples of the Gu God Star fled in panic, too afraid to fight back.

    Seeing the situation verge on internal chaos... just then, several people emerged from the crowd, standing before the Dragon Devil n geniuses!

    "Young Dragon Lord, calm your anger!"

    "Please, Young Dragon Lord, spare Bai Lu! Bai Ao made a mistake, and Bai Lu will discipline him."

    "He has already paid the price of losing both eyes!"

    "The Young Dragon Lord is magnanimous. This kid is truly foolish and ungrateful."

    "The Gu God Star follows the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Our fathers share a deep friendship. We should focus on attacking the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm for now."

    Those speaking were all core disciples from various celestial sects, each on par with Bai Lu in status.

    Theiring to defend Bai Lu only showed that she was indeed a good person, with many friends. Seeing her being implicated, quite a few stepped forward to support her.

    "Gusu Yan from the Comet Immortal Gate, Bloodvine Young Master, and Ah Jiao from the Nether God Star..." The Young Dragon Lord looked at these individuals and listed several names in session, his deep voice sending a chill through everyone present.

    With this interference, Bai Lu and the other disciples of the Gu God Star sessfully escaped.

    "Young Dragon Lord!"

    Those whose names were mentioned could only grit their teeth, sp their fists, and await the Young Dragon Lord''s <em>judgment.</em>

    Their attempt to stop the Young Dragon Lord from killing was a serious provocation, but... if it happened again, they wouldn''t be able to stand by.

    Although Bai Ao had indeed been immature time and again, causing the Young Dragon Lord to lose face, his anger had spread to all the disciples of the Gu God Star. They truly felt... it wasn''t necessary.

    The Young Dragon Lord¡¯s golden, fiery eyes scanned the crowd, filling them with unease.

    Suddenly, heughed. He shook his head with a smile and said, ¡°You guys are something else. I was just joking with Bai Lu, and you all took it seriously.¡±N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Everyone froze for a moment, still feeling unsettled.

    Embracing Shen Nanyin, the Young Dragon Lord spoke firmly, ¡°Bai Ao indeedcks manners, but letting him feel the pain of losing his eyes will benefit his growth. With the Gu God Star¡¯s methods, restoring his sight won¡¯t be difficult.¡±

    ¡°Yes. As for Bai Lu¡­¡±

    The crowd looked towards the Young Dragon Lord.

    ¡°She misunderstood me. I¡¯ll send a flying talisman, and she¡¯ll return shortly,¡± the Young Dragon Lord continued.

    ¡°Oh¡­¡±

    The crowd exchanged nces and could only nod.

    Was the Young Dragon Lord sincere, or had he calmed his anger only to maintain control?

    Deep down, everyone knew the answer. Coming to the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects meant having clear minds.

    They were well aware of the Young Dragon Lord¡¯s true nature and the dangers he posed.

    By admitting it was a <em>joke</em>, the atmosphere at least lightened.

    ¡°It¡¯s just a minor incident caused by a mischievous child. Let¡¯s allugh it off and focus on conquering the Extreme Yin Star.¡± The Young Dragon Lord¡¯s gaze swept forward, channeling all his anger onto amon foe!!

    ¡°Follow the Young Dragon Lord and leave no survivors!¡± the crowd shouted, especially the several geniuses who''d just stepped forward.

    ¡°Continue!¡±

    With amand, the army advanced once more, losing only about 20 people, which didn¡¯t affect the overall n.

    The Young Dragon Lord regained his cheerful demeanor, still strategizing expertly.

    However, from that moment on, he held Shen Nanyin¡¯s waist more tightly, growing even more intimate.

    ¡°These people are all worthless scum. Why bother befriending them? Our Dragon Devil n has already ughtered plenty of those scum from the Extreme Yin Star!¡± Shen Nanyinined.

    ¡°You, shut up.¡± The Young Dragon Lord gritted his teeth, his palm pressing into Shen Nanyin¡¯s waist, leaving five bloodstains.

    Shen Nanyin stuck out her tongue, her face showing a coquettish smile. The violet nine-headed dragon in her left eye flickered a few times, making her gaze appear twisted and strange.

    But the Young Dragon Lord didn¡¯t notice any of this. Hemanded the army, marching them out in a grand procession!

    However, unlike before, the force was no longer filled with passionate righteousness. Instead, each person wore a different expression, burdened with their own worries¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    ¡°She misunderstood me. I¡¯ll send a flying talisman, and she¡¯ll return shortly,¡± the Young Dragon Lord continued.</blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 873: Ghost-Faced Celestial Spiders!

    Somewhere in the starry void within the Grand Assembly Arena, a group of Gu God Star disciples huddled together. Their nerves were taut as they watched the scene unfolding before them.

    In the center stood Bai Lu, a celestial maiden in a white gown, deftly wrapping a luminous cloth around a young boy¡¯s head, covering his eyes. The fabric shimmered with an otherworldly glow, casting faint reflections on their anxious faces.

    Once she secured the cloth, Bai Lu exhaled deeply and turned to address the gathered disciples, ¡°With the Rebirth Elixir and Spirit Storing Cloth, Lil Ao¡¯s eyes can be saved!¡±

    A collective sigh of relief swept through the nearly 20 disciples, the tension momentarily easing.

    But Bai Ao, freshly bandaged, immediately clenched his teeth and growled low, his voice edged with pain and frustration. ¡°I swear on my family¡¯s lives, I didn¡¯ty eyes on that woman! I have no interest in giants like her. I adore Lil You¡ªsmall, delicate, and lovely¡­¡±

    Bai Lu could only shake her head in exasperation. ¡°We get it! Now keep your mouth shut!¡±

    ¡°Sis,¡± Bai Ao pleaded, his voice breaking, ¡°you have to believe me. Our Grand Assembly might get eliminated, but my reputation must stay intact. Otherwise, how will I exin myself to Lil You? She¡¯ll be furious with me!¡±

    ¡°Bai Ao, one more word and we¡¯ll leave you here,¡± Bai Lu warned, her patience worn thin.

    The boy hesitated, sensing his sister¡¯s genuine anger, and recoiled, his resolve crumbling. Yet, the defiance lingered in his eyes.One of the taller disciples stepped forward, his voice tentative, ¡°Based on what I know of Bai Ao, this situation¡­¡±

    ¡°Enough,¡± Bai Lu interrupted sharply. ¡°This ends now. We''re not discussing it further.¡±

    ¡°Understood!¡±

    The disciples echoed in unison, nodding in agreement.

    They all understood Bai Lu¡¯s unspoken message. The Grand Assembly Arena offered no true privacy; their conversation could easily reach the ears of various factions within the Million Starlight Hall. Even if they trusted Bai Ao, speaking of it openly was a risk they couldn¡¯t afford.

    If the Young Dragon Consort were to bring this matter up, Bai Ao would have no choice but to admit fault. The Gu God Star couldn¡¯t stand against stronger, more influential forces. With the Gu God Star currently seeking the protection of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, internal conflicts like this only added to Bai Lu¡¯s mounting pressure.

    ¡°No matter what the truth is, the current situation will undoubtedly ce Father and the others in an awkward, even dire, position,¡± Bai Lu sighed, her voice heavy with worry.

    This unforeseenplication had spiraled beyond their expectations, bing absurdlyplicated.

    "But the Young Dragon Lord''s reaction was truly disheartening... Sigh. To be honest, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is secluded, and their purchase of celestial ves leaves no impression on our Gu God Star. As for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, with the nature of their Dragon Devil n, once they dominate the Heavenly Deity Ster River, they will trample all the celestial sects beneath their feet. I wonder what the ancient and powerful sects like the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce think? Why haven''t they imposed any restrictions? Were they bribed and sowed discord, or have they simply been overwhelmed?" Bai Lu lowered her head, deep in thought, growing increasingly troubled.

    She knew that the Ancestral Land, Elysian Immortal Pce, and other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance harbored their own conflicts and age-old grudges. Perhaps it was precisely because of this that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm had the opportunity to rise!

    "What should we do next?" Bai Ao finally calmed down, now able to worry about the future.

    "The Young Dragon Lord has sent a flying talisman, asking us to return," Bai Lu said.

    "We can''t go back! It might be a trap," Bai Ao eximed.

    Bai Lu lowered her head and whispered into her brother''s ear, "It''s not a trap. After he lost his temper and showed his true nature, he realized it conflicted with our principles of alliance and counter-alliance. He turned back in time to give us a chance."

    "So, are we going back?" Bai Ao asked nervously.

    "He is powerful and strong. If he gives us a chance, how would we dare refuse?" Bai Lu retorted.

    "But..." Bai Ao''s heart pounded.

    Before he could finish, Bai Lu said, "It''s alright. You don''t have to go. You stay and guard the Parent g."

    "Alright! Then you all must be extremely careful," Bai Ao said worriedly.

    Time was of the essence in conquering the Extreme Yin Star. Bai Lu arranged for two trusted disciples to take Bai Ao away.

    "Be careful, Sis!" Though Bai Ao was reluctant to part, he knew he was not suited to return to that righteous army and could only bid a temporary farewell to his sister. ?

    "Goodbye..." Bai Lu waved to her brother, feeling a mix of emotions.

    "Don''t say goodbye. Come with us."

    Suddenly, an abrupt voice sounded beside them.

    "What!?" Bai Lu, Bai Ao, and the other Gu God Star disciples felt a chill run through them. They immediately became alert and looked toward the source of the voice. Not far away, a young man with an unparalleled divine appearance stood there, seemingly appearing out of nowhere!

    Bai Lu had never seen this man before. So, her graceful eyebrows knitted tightly in concern. His ability to approach silently naturally signaled danger.

    "Who are you?" Bai Lu motioned for everyone to step behind her, then stared coldly at Yun Xiao.

    From her actions, it was clear she was apetent older sister.

    "I am a flower-plucking thief of the Immortal path," Yun Xiao dered with a smile, drifting gracefully toward Bai Lu.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "So, a scoundrel!" Bai Lu retorted.

    Bai Lu''s beauty was renowned far and wide¡ªa pure and delicate charm that felt approachable. Even in anger, she exuded a certain elegance.

    "Protect Bai Ao, and I''ll handle him," she instructed the other Gu God Star disciples.

    "Don¡¯t be careless," one of the disciples cautioned.

    The disciples quickly retreated with the ailing Bai Ao, remaining vignt and ready to assist at a moment¡¯s notice.

    "The Heavenly Deity Ster River is teeming with talent. But as far as I know, there¡¯s no one like you," Bai Lu raised an eyebrow, putting pressure on Yun Xiao.

    "That''s normal. You''ve seen so many insignificant stars, yet you fail to recognize a bright moon," Yun Xiao replied.

    "How arrogant!" Bai Lu snorted coldly.

    She had reached the Perfect Stage of the Fourth Baptism Realm and was already a renowned talent within the Heavenly Deity Ster River. She knew everyone stronger than herself in the Grand Assembly Arena.

    She wasn''t one to waste words. Seeing Yun Xiao still advancing, seemingly intent on <em>plucking flowers</em>, her anger red, and she acted decisively.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A Life Sigil erupted from the center of her forehead. Clearly, she was an Inscription Immortal.

    The Life Sigil was pure white, swirling with ck patterns that resembled insects¡ªabout 600 in number. These ck insects were Rune Prisons, each one aplex miniature arrayposed of 10,000,000 Runes, essentially a grand celestial formation.

    Moreover, Bai Lu''s Life Sigil operated differently from those of other Inscription Immortals.

    As she summoned the Life Sigil, she didn''t pause. She reached down to her waist, grabbed a gourd-shaped celestial treasure, and with a flick of her fingertips, opened the gourd''s mouth.

    "Come out, obediently." Under Bai Lu''s gentle call, the pure white gourd erupted as countless white insects swarmed out. They resembled spiders, each bearing dozens of long legs adorned with sharp spikes and barbs. At the abdomen, a triangr organ quivered, clearly about to spin silk.

    There was no doubt. These were Gu Insects. Distinct from demons, celestial beasts, or wild beasts, Gu Insects were unique spirits with myriad varieties.

    Yun Xiao had no idea what kind of insects these were.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>Bai Lu maintained a serene expression. With a flick of her hand, the Life Sigil before her unraveled into 600 ck patterns, which then dispersed and merged into each spider-like Gu Insect.

    In an instant, the backs of these white spiders were etched with ck ghostly faces. Their presence grew more brutal and terrifying, their sizes swelling tenfold, each asrge as a bench.

    "Ghost-Faced Celestial Spiders, activate!" Bai Ao, still able to perceive through his spirit, shouted with excitement.

    <em>CLICK! CLICK! CLICK!! </em>Under Bai Lu''s control, the 600 massive and eerie Ghost-Faced Celestial Spiders emitted piercing screeches as they lunged toward Yun Xiao. Some charged head-on, while others circled around, their abdomens frantically spinning silk, clearly aiming to ensnare Yun Xiao in a formidable trap.

    "Using a Life Sigil to enhance Gu Insects¡ªthat¡¯s a novel approach," Yun Xiao marveled.

    When it came to the capabilities of a Life Sigil, Yun Xiao''s Prison Warden Sigil possessed a myriad of functionalities with its five forms¡ªDao Dragon, Runic Umbre, Prison Warden, Soulfire Eye, and Formation God. It could even purify corruption. It was virtually omnipotent. However, he had never attempted to strengthen Gu Insects before.

    With an army of Gu Insects, Bai Lu''s prowess in massbat was unparalleled. This might exin why the Young Dragon Lord held her in such high regard. On the Gu God Star, everyone cultivated Gu Insects, making them ideal fodder.

    The Ghost-Faced Celestial Spider army encircled Yun Xiao like a miniature legion, exuding a lethal threat and oppressive pressure.

    Of course, Bai Lu was no mere insect handler. She stood amidst the swarm, surrounded by the most insects, and dark patterns flowed across her body. In terms of celestial techniques, she was exceptionally skilled.

 Chapter 874: Let Go of My Sister!

    ¡°Scoundrel, why haven¡¯t you revealed your identity? If you continue with these deceptions, don¡¯t me me for being ruthless,¡± Bai Lu warned coldly.

    ¡°You¡¯re too kind. If you''re going to be ruthless, just do it,¡± Yun Xiao replied with a smile.

    "So stubborn!¡± Bai Lu seethed. Who was this tedious character, and what did he want?

    Having been wronged by the Young Dragon Lord, her mood was foul. She couldn¡¯t bear it any longer and directlymanded the Ghost-Faced Celestial Spiders tounch a howling assault on Yun Xiao.

    ¡°You still have time to surrender!¡± Bai Lu continued to warn.

    ¡°Alright.¡±

    Though Yun Xiao nodded, facing an army of 600 Gu Insects, he acted decisively.

    At the center of his forehead, the nine-headed violet dragon suddenly transformed into countless dragon patterns, sweeping over his entire body.

    In an instant, Yun Xiao resembled a humanoid dragon, with violet energy surging around him. It was fierce and overwhelming, yet sacred and domineering.Against Sword Immortals, Yun Xiao employed swordsmanship.

    Against Inscription Immortals, Yun Xiao used inscription techniques.

    What stood out was Yun Xiao''s all-epassing suppression.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Above his head, the Primordial Sphere swept out, and the tribtion power of the Three Lives Samsara and Deca-Yin Frost Fiend roared, converging into the violet dragon on his body.

    The icy divine power erupted.

    ¡°Ice Age, unfold!¡± With a singlemand, all the dragon patterns on Yun Xiao¡¯s body gathered at his fingertips. Boundless icy force roared like an enraged dragon, sweeping forth instantly. At that moment, he transformed into an ice nexus.

    From his fingertips, the surrounding space began to freeze. The freezing spread like a storm, shattering outward and instantly engulfing the army of 600 Ghost-Faced Celestial Spiders, even freezing Bai Lu herself.

    In a mere instant, a spatial ice sphere with a diameter of 1,000 meters appeared in the void, locking everything in ce.

    ¡°What a powerful celestial technique!¡±

    ¡°Quick, save Senior Sister!¡±

    The Gu God Star disciples didn¡¯t recognize the celestial technique, but they were all valiant. They rushed forward, using Life Sigils and Gu Insects tounch attacks at the spatial ice sphere.

    Within this frigid ice sphere, all the Ghost-Faced Celestial Spiders were frozen into ice sculptures, motionless.

    Looking at Bai Lu again, though she wasn¡¯t frozen, she was locked down. Her face, hands, and legs were covered in frost. The Deca-Yin Frost Fiend force had invaded, freezing her to the marrow. ?

    However, more than the freezing, her heart trembled. Her expression changed slightly as she said, ¡°This is the Burying Heaven grade celestial technique of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! You are¡­¡±

    Her mind raced, finally locking onto one person.

    ¡°You''re that celestial ve!¡±

    Atst, Bai Lu recognized Yun Xiao¡¯s identity. Before this, she had heard his name but never seen him. Now, seeing him, she was even more shocked.

    ¡°A castrated ve, and you call yourself a flower-plucking thief?¡± Bai Lu was speechless.

    ¡°Is that not possible?¡±

    In that very instant, the entire Ice Age suddenly exploded, its terrifying power shaking Bai Lu into helplessness. At the same moment, a violet Life Sigil abruptly adhered to the top of her head, generating nine violet dragon patterns that locked her body from top to bottom. In the next instant, a slender hand extended from behind her, clutching her jade neck.

    "Ugh..." Bai Lu''s delicate body trembled, nearly choking. She hadn''t expected to be subdued so easily. The Prison Warden Sigil had suppressed her tribtion power, and the young man''s hand could take her life at any moment. She could fully sense the lethal threat Yun Xiao posed!

    "Don''t move. Otherwise, your head and body will be torn apart," Yun Xiao whispered behind her, his voice soft yet chilling.

    "Yes, understood..." Bai Lu''s face turned pale as she exhaled deeply, forcing an awkward smile. "Um, the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is just for sparring and exchanging ideas. We hold no grudges, and there''s nothing to say. Please, don''t act impulsively."

    "Your words now don''t really reflect your actions earlier." Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "I''m sorry," Bai Lu replied, feeling aggrieved. She wasn''t foolish¡ªshe cowered quickly, using her feminine charm to appear helpless whenever she lost.

    "Good to know you realize your mistake. I bear you no ill will," Yun Xiao confessed.

    "That''s great..." Bai Lu finally rxed slightly. She paused, her expression turning odd as she bent down to sniff Yun Xiao''s hand. "Why does your hand smell like milk?"

    "Ahem, you must have mistaken the scent!" Yun Xiao''s expression hardened before he sternly said, "Be serious!"

    "Understood!" Bai Lu remembered that he was a celestial ve from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and wondered who the women around him might be, letting her imagination run wild.

    "Let go of my sister!"

    "You brat!"

    At that moment, the icy dust cleared. The disciples of the Gu God Star rushed forward, only to see Bai Lu being controlled. They were instantly shocked and angered, of course, unable to believe it. They didn''t even know Yun Xiao''s identity!

    "Everyone, hold your position! Don''t move!" Bai Lu quickly shouted.

    "Don''t move, don''t move."

    Upon hearing this, the Gu God Star disciples promptly stopped, but panic filled their hearts, for this young man had just introduced himself as a flower-plucking thief!

    "Handsome sir, I advise you not to mess around. My sister is the Saintess of the Gu God Star! This is the Grand Assembly Arena, and our elders are watching from outside..." Bai Ao dared not offend Yun Xiao, resorting to both ttery and threats.

    "Stop talking."

    After Bai Lu finished speaking, she didn''t dare turn back to look at Yun Xiao. Instead, she softened her tone and gently asked, "Your name is Yun Xiao? Um, Big Bro Yun... ah, no, Sir Yun, what is it that you seek..."

    "Give me your Personal Pledge," Yun Xiao demanded directly.

    Bai Lu frowned, gritting her teeth. "This isn''t very proper..."

    Yun Xiao''s fingernails slowly prated her snow-white skin, his voice turning cold. "Do you think I''m joking with you? Lei Ting, Chi Shenshen, Chi Qianqian¡ªthey all refused to give me their Personal Pledges. I sent them straight to hell. Given the current conflict between the Harmony Divine Pce and Southern Divine Dragon Realm, what''s one more? I can sense that you''re more rational and intelligent than them, so I''m giving you only one chance to decide."

    Upon hearing these words, Bai Lu felt an icy chill envelop her entire body, leaving her gasping for breath.

    When Yun Xiao joked, it allowed her to rx, but once he became serious, she immediately felt as though she had plunged into an ice cavern.

    ¡°You want us to help you resist the Young Dragon Lord¡¯s army...¡± Bai Lu''s voice trembled.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Yun Xiao nodded.

    ¡°Do you know that if we do this, our entire Gu God Star will undoubtedly suffer retribution from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm? This is far more serious than my death alone,¡± Bai Lu said, her face pale.

    ¡°First, you¡¯re just the beginning. Second, the Personal Pledge is a valuable asset; you can use it to show the Southern Divine Dragon Realm that you were coerced... As for your personal feelings, who cares?¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°Huff...¡± Bai Lu exhaled deeply, finally shaking her head. ¡°Kill me, I cannot survive by myself and drag them down with me.¡±

    She meant that even with their help, they couldn¡¯t defeat the righteous army of the Young Dragon Lord. Yun Xiao¡¯s actions would only lead them all to their deaths.

    ¡°By saying this, it seems you think of me as too kind,¡± Yun Xiao remarked, sending a chill down Bai Lu¡¯s spine.

    In the next instant, Yun Xiao dragged her toward the group of Gu God Star disciples, his voice icy as hemanded, ¡°Hand over your Personal Pledges, or she dies.¡±

    Upon hearing this, the disciples of the Gu God Star erupted in anger. However, before they could react, Yun Xiao gently pinched Bai Lu¡¯s neck, a cracking sound echoing as they watched her, terrified and pale.

    ¡°Sister! Sister!¡± Bai Ao, already injured in the eyes, now wept blood and tears as he cried out to the other disciples, ¡°Are you all crazy? This Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is just a game¡ªwhy take it so seriously! Staying alive is what matters most!¡±

    Turning to face Yun Xiao, he demanded, ¡°Can you guarantee that if we hand over the Personal Pledge, you will release my sister?¡±

    ¡°A real man of honor keeps his word,¡± Yun Xiao responded.

    Hearing this, Bai Lu panicked and shouted, ¡°Watch out for the trap, he¡¯s not a real man¡­¡±N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Yun Xiao silenced her by covering her mouth and added, ¡°I also keep my word.¡±

    Meanwhile, Bai Ao gritted his teeth and angrily dered, ¡°Deal!¡±

    Bai Lu was furious on the spot. ¡°You¡¯re being forced to bow in shame¡ªwhat kind of deal is this?¡±

    Nevertheless, she didn¡¯t stop him. Concerned for her safety, her brother handed over his Personal Pledge without hesitation.

    The green leaf atop his head split in two, half remaining within his mind and the other half merging into Yun Xiao¡¯s green leaf.

    Thereafter, the green marks on both of them fell silent, leaving outsiders unable to discern who had surrendered their Personal Pledges.

    ¡°Hurry up! Hand them over!¡± Bai Ao urged the others anxiously.

    At this moment, Bai Lu didn¡¯t have time to stop them.

    So the disciples of the Gu God Star, desperate to save Bai Lu, had no choice but to trust Yun Xiao and handed over their Personal Pledges one by one.

    When thest Personal Pledge was taken, Yun Xiao didn¡¯t make them wait long and effortlessly released Bai Lu.

    ¡°Ugh¡­¡±

    When Bai Lu returned to their side, she was still somewhat dazed.

    She hadn¡¯t expected Yun Xiao to release her so straightforwardly!

    ¡°You don¡¯t want my Personal Pledge anymore?¡± she asked, puzzled.

    ¡°I have theirs, and that¡¯s enough. After all, would you risk their lives?¡± Yun Xiao countered.

    ¡°Alright!¡± Bai Lu sighed inwardly. She feltpletely helpless.

    ¡°Come here,¡± Yun Xiao suddenlymanded.

    ¡°Sis, don¡¯t listen to him!¡± Bai Ao hurriedly eximed, tense with worry.

    Bai Lu shook her head at her brother, her white dress fluttering as she gracefully approached Yun Xiao. ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°You can give me your Personal Pledge too if you wish,¡± Yun Xiao whispered softly in her ear.

    Bai Lu clenched her teeth upon hearing this!

    She understood Yun Xiao¡¯s meaning.

    The other disciples of Gu God Star had handed over their Personal Pledges as justifications to be forced into opposition against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, but she hadn¡¯t.

    ¡°I¡¯ll give mine,¡± Bai Lu decided resolutely.

    ¡°Alright!¡± Yun Xiao didn¡¯t hesitate and took her Personal Pledge directly.

    ¡°What do you want us to do?¡± Bai Lu looked at this peculiar celestial ve, her heart full of confusion.

    ¡°No rush, having only you isn¡¯t enough,¡± Yun Xiao replied, looking towards the direction of the Extreme Yin Star.

    ¡°In that team, except for me, everyone is a die-hard follower of the Young Dragon Lord. Do you really think you can sow discord among them? That¡¯s quite delusional,¡± Bai Lu responded.

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Yun Xiao nced at her, crossing his arms as he drew his Sovereign Sword and moved towards the Extreme Yin Star. ¡°For a ruler, without a heart of benevolence, ws are inevitable. And you, you¡¯re just one of those ws.¡±

    Bai Lu was furious, unable to hold back her curse, ¡°You¡¯re the w here!¡±<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 875: The Name Seems Familiar?

    Chapter 875: The Name Seems Familiar?

    Outside the Extreme Yin Star, an army of geniuses soared across the starry void and descended with imposing grandeur.

    These young prodigies, renowned throughout the Heavenly Deity Ster River, were rising stars on the Immortal path. Brimming with youthful vigor, they were in the prime of their lives.

    It was evident that, regardless of their status, a hint of arrogance shone in their eyes.

    As these geniuses arrived outside the Extreme Yin Star, more kindred spirits joined them along the way, following the Young Dragon Lord to be part of the crusade against the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Though the disciples of the Gu God Star had departed, the army''s numbers had not decreased but grown, now exceeding 500, nearly all of them elites.

    "Such overwhelming might descending upon the Extreme Yin Star, which only has nine people¡ªthe Young Dragon Lord is being a bit extravagant, like a lion hunting a rabbit," a young man d in blood-red garments said.

    He had long, blood-red hair that seemed to drip, and his skin was pale. His thick hair resembled barbed vines, giving him an eerie appearance.

    A vigorous demonic aura emanated from him, marking him not as human or devil, but as a demon.

    Among this army of over 500 prodigies, he was clearly one of the foremost figures, respected by many.He was the Bloodvine Young Master.

    Behind him stood the Bloodvine Demon Grotto¡ªa world belonging to the Bloodvine Life Demons. The entire star was blood-red, with countless seas of blood. From these seas, Bloodvine Life Demons were born, the invincible overlords of that demon grotto.

    Such a ce was one that many humans and devils dared not approach.

    This Bloodvine Young Master was the supreme genius of the Bloodvine Demon Grotto, his statusparable to Lei Ting. He was also a future talent destined to reach the Eighth Baptism Realm.

    "What the Young Dragon Lord seeks is absolute certainty," another figure beside the Bloodvine Young Master said.

    From the voice, one could tell it was a woman. Yet she stood eight feet tall, burly and imposing, d in battle armor with knotted muscles and long hair tied into a bundle.

    Her features were unique¡ªa high nose bridge and slightly sunken eyes. It was clear she was a type of devil, butpared to Thunder Devils and the like, she was more pleasing to the eye. The power emanating from her was yin and cold, bearing an aura simr to Feng Yao.

    In fact, this type of devil, known as the Nether Devil, was indeed simr in bloodline to the Yin Devil. Both being yin and cold devils, the difference was that the Nether Devil had stronger flesh andbat talent, unlike the Yin Devil who was more ornamental.

    The Nether Devil woman conversing with the Bloodvine Young Master stood tall and stern. Though a woman, her aura was fierce and unyielding, exuding a heroic valor and formidable presence. She looked every bit like a natural-born goddess of war.

    Her name was easy to remember¡ªAh Jiao¡ªa name typical of those from the Nether Divine Star.

    Despite its simplicity, Ah Jiao was, like the Bloodvine Young Master, among the foremost figures following the Young Dragon Lord. Her status was on par with Bai Lu''s, and shemanded over 20 Nether Devils.

    "It''s not just about leaving nothing to chance," the Bloodvine Young Master said, turning to gaze at the ten-foot-tall figure radiating imperial dragon might at the center of the crowd. "He wants to use this overwhelming battle to show the world that those who follow the righteous path gain widespread support, while those who stray are abandoned. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm is the destined mandate of heaven..."

    Ah Jiao turned her gaze as well. Her dark violet eyes settled on the Young Dragon Lord, who held Shen Nanyin¡ªthe Young Dragon Consort¡ªby the waist. He exuded a grand aura, like one whomanded the world when awake and rested upon a beauty''s knee when drunk.

    To cultivate this atmosphere, the Young Dragon Lord treated Shen Nanyin exceptionally well before the battle. The coupleughed and chatted, teasing and bantering like a celestial pair, drawing envious nces.

    This behavior made those familiar with the Young Dragon Lord''s character¡ªlike the Bloodvine Young Master and Ah Jiao¡ªfeel as if they hardly recognized him.

    "Can''t deny it¡ªthe masses are each trapped in their own delusions. If he keeps up the act long enough, it might just be reality," the Bloodvine Young Master murmured.

    "Are you dissatisfied? Your tone seems off," Ah Jiao nced at him.

    "Not really," he shook his head.

    They fell silent, thoughts drifting back to the earlier incident with Bai Lu.

    Bai Lu was a mutual friend; they had met through her introduction.

    "We''re about to make our move. Let''s not dwell on it," the Bloodvine Young Master said.

    "By the way, where''s Gusu Yan?" Ah Jiao asked.

    "Over there," he pointed.

    He gestured toward a blue-robed youth with an imposing demeanor and a heroic spirit, appearing both refined and cultured.

    "He fancies Bai Lu. It seems the Comet Immortal Gate and Gu God Star are considering a marriage alliance." Ah Jiao, despite her cold exterior, was keen on this bit of gossip.

    "But after what just happened, if the Southern Divine Dragon Realm suppresses the Gu God Star, that marriage might fall through," the Bloodvine Young Master said.

    "On the Immortal path, we often can''t control our own fate," Ah Jiao chuckled.

    "Hmm?" The Bloodvine Young Master pointed beside Gusu Yan. "Who''s that white-robed youth talking with him? He looks familiar."

    Ah Jiao looked over and shook her head. "I don''t recognize him."

    "Probably a <em>righteous</em> fellow who joined us along the way," he chuckled, a hint of self-mockery in his voice.

    In their view, Gusu Yan had also just noticed the unfamiliar white-robed youth and initiated a conversation.

    He asked the white-robed youth, "Did you just join us?"

    The white-robed youth nodded with a smile. "Yes, Brother Gusu."

    He nced around the group, appearing entirely at ease, as if he had suddenly appeared among them, traveling alone.

    "May I ask who you are?" Gusu Yan inquired.

    "I am Yun Xiao," the white-robed youth replied, sping his hands in greeting.

    "Yun Xiao?" Gusu Yan paused, the name striking a familiar chord. It felt as if he''d heard it somewhere before. He pressed on, "Brother Yun, which celestial sect do you belong to?"

    Before he could get an answer, the white-robed youth smiled and patted his shoulder. "Brother Gusu, I have some matters to attend to. Let''s chat next time."

    With that, he turned and strolled leisurely through the ranks of 500 righteous and fervent geniuses, moving as if on a casual walk.

    "Who is that fellow? Quite peculiar," the Bloodvine Young Master said as he approached Gusu Yan, his brow furrowed in confusion.

    "No idea. He said his name was Yun Xiao. I thought he might be from the Elysian Immortal Pce. But judging by his aura, that doesn''t seem likely," Gusu Yan replied.

    "Definitely not. Disciples of the Elysian Immortal Pce wouldn''t dare take the name Yun Xiao," Ah Jiao added, shaking her head as she joined them.

    They had other concerns weighing on their minds and didn''t ponder further, turning their attention to the Young Dragon Lord.

    At that moment, the Young Dragon Lord, solemn and imposing, his golden dragon robe billowing, stepped to the forefront of the 500-strong army of geniuses. He basked in their admiring and reverent gazes, like an emperor of a bygone era, exuding vast divine might.

    "The Young Dragon Lord is about to give the order to attack!"

    Gusu Yan, the Bloodvine Young Master, Ah Jiao, and the other humans, demons, and devils turned to gaze upon the majestic figure of the Young Dragon Lord, a hint of awe in their eyes.

    The army brimmed with fervor. Eyes burned bright; battle intent surged!

    A crushing battle was on the verge of erupting.

    "Yun Xiao... Yun Xiao..." Gusu Yan muttered, the name echoing in his mind.

    Suddenly, a chill ran down his spine.

    "What''s the matter?" the Bloodvine Young Master asked, puzzled. "It''s just the Harmony Divine Pce; what''s got you so spooked?"

    "Yun Xiao!" Gusu Yan eximed through gritted teeth. "Isn''t that the name of the celestial ve from the Harmony Divine Pce?"

    "Damn," the Bloodvine Young Master muttered as realization dawned, stunned on the spot.

    Everyone had been shouting <em>celestial ve</em>, <em>eunuch dog</em>, and <em>castrate</em>. So, his real name hadn''t left a strong impression.

    Even Ah Jiao was momentarily stunned. None of them had imagined that the celestial ve, taking advantage of the fact that few had seen him, would dare to impersonate a righteous warrior, swagger into their ranks, and even openly announce his name to Gusu Yan.

    What kind of audacity was this? It was sheer madness! Most of these 500 geniuses hade from afar and had never seen Yun Xiao.

    Had Yang Yang, Liu Liu, or other close followers of the Young Dragon Lord near the Extreme Yin Star been present, they would have recognized him at a nce.

    "What is he nning?"

    Though the three were shocked, they didn''t feel particrly anxious; they were merely here to support the Young Dragon Lord, not the main yers.

    As they turned back in confusion, a scream suddenly erupted from the middle of the army!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    That scream directly drowned out the impassioned deration the Young Dragon Lord had been preparing.

    At the front of the crowd, the giant with golden dragon horns frowned, his eyes zing as he turned back coldly.

    Under his gaze, the crowd instantly parted.

    The Young Dragon Lord jerked his head up. When he saw what was happening behind him, his pupils shrank abruptly, and a murderous aura instantly clouded his face.

    "What happened?"

    Everyone''s fervor and heroic spirit were interrupted as they all turned to look toward the center.

    They saw the Young Dragon Consort, Shen Nanyin, her face pale, her tall figure trembling slightly. Her expression was one of sheer terror, eyes brimming with tears, pitiful to behold.

    The azure Heaven Burial Sword Souly across her jade-like neck. Though the Sword Soul was only three inches long, it bore over 400 Sword Prisons, emitting countless rays of light, clearly capable of easily slicing through the Young Dragon Consort''s snow-white neck.

    Behind her stood a youth who appeared diminutivepared to her. Holding the sword in one hand to seize her, his other hand pressed a Life Sigil onto her forehead. The sigil transformed into a nine-headed Prison Warden Dao Dragon, forming nine purple dragon patterns like chains that extended from her forehead downward, locking her body entirely.

    At this moment, the Young Dragon Consort, head tilted back, was held captive in the embrace of the white-robed youth. Her figure was bound and sealed by the Prison Warden Sigil. Her fearful and anxious trembling drew everyone''s attention.

    The white-robed youth''s remarkably handsome face rested against her shoulder.

    In contrast to the Young Dragon Consort''s charming yet panic-stricken visage, his face appeared smaller, like a boy on his mother''s back. But one had to admit, that cold expression¡ªwith a hint of mockery and an air of total control¡ªwas indeed striking.

    He looked at the Young Dragon Lord, a slight smile on his face. But the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in his hand left faint scorch marks on Shen Nanyin''s snow-white neck, causing her to let out whimpers of pain.

 Chapter 876 (1) - Hostage Negotiations

    Chapter 876 (1) - Hostage Negotiations

    At the sight before them, the 500 prodigies¡ªincluding Gusu Yan, the Bloodvine Young Master¡ªfelt their scalps tingle. How much more so for the authoritative and overbearing Young Dragon Lord, ustomed to orchestrating every detail and excessively concerned with his reputation?

    He had rallied the masses, raised his banner high, and takenmand, arriving with great momentum. He was poised to unleash his forces to obliterate the Extreme Yin Star and elevate the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to a seat in the Heavenly Deity Alliance. Yet before he could even make a move, his <em>beloved wife</em> was snatched right from behind him?

    Up to this moment, the Young Dragon Lord didn''t even know who this youth in white was!

    "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Yun Xiao, from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    Under the awe-inspiring wrath of the Young Dragon Lord, Yun Xiao remained calm and unruffled, following his own rhythm as he casually introduced himself.

    The Young Dragon Lord had thought he was a genius from another celestial sect causing trouble. But upon hearing the introduction, his rage was instantlyced with murderous intent!

    "He''s that celestial ve!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "That eunuch, that castrated dog!"

    "By the heavens, where does he get such audacity?""Damn, has the Young Dragon Consort been kidnapped? So easily?"

    All they knew was that this celestial ve was said to be fiercely powerful and capable of controlling other Star Barriers. He was ruthless,wless, and utterly unafraid of death!

    He was a desperado, a ruthless character.

    This impression, coupled with the scene before them and seeing the Young Dragon Consort''s terror, made the hearts of the 500 prodigies sink.

    All eyes turned to the Young Dragon Lord and the Dragon Devil n members.

    The one kidnapped was the second-inmand of their team. What should they do?

    Everyone was at a loss; they could only look to the Young Dragon Lord.

    They saw the Young Dragon Lord, his eyes zing with golden mes. Without a word, his towering ten-foot figure thundered forward.

    He disregarded everything, spreading his giant golden hands, transforming into a ray of golden light, charging straight at Yun Xiao to capture him!

    Just this reaction alone showed how confident the Young Dragon Lord was.

    "You think I''m some helpless rabbit?"

    Seeing this, Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh.

    The Young Dragon Lord moved quickly; Yun Xiao moved even faster. With a swift motion, he dragged Shen Nanyin backward. At the same time, he retracted his Heaven Burial Sword Soul and cleanly and decisively stabbed Shen Nanyin in the abdomen!

    <em>PUFF! </em>The three-inch azure de pierced straight through her battle armor, stabbing into Shen Nanyin''s flesh.

    "AHHH!!" Shen Nanyin convulsed in pain, tears streaming down her face. She hurriedly cried out, "Stop! Stop! Don''t do anything reckless!"

    Her screams were so heartrending that those who heard them felt their scalps tingle, especially the men. They couldn''t tolerate that this celestial ve was so cruel to a beauty; wasn''t this violently destroying a heavenly treasure?

    "Everyone in the Million Starlight Pce is watching. Are you nning to abuse your wife?" Yun Xiao was well aware of the image that the Young Dragon Lord wanted to establish.

    The Young Dragon Lord halted his movement. Suspended in mid-air, he was undoubtedly suppressing a towering rage. His body seemed ready to explode with fury, but his mind was mature enough; he forcefully restrained himself. Fixing a piercing gaze on Yun Xiao, he said in a deep voice, "You''ve taken a hostage; you must want to negotiate. State your terms."

    Yun Xiao was right¡ªthe entire Million Starlight Pce was watching. This was the moment for the Young Dragon Lord to showcase his capability and resolve.

    His elders wanted him to clear his name. But now that Shen Nanyin was in Yun Xiao''s hands, it was a tough situation.

    Before Yun Xiao could state his conditions, the Young Dragon Lord coldly added, "Let me make this clear. Don''t foolishly think that by taking one person hostage, you can stop us from capturing the Extreme Yin Star! The Harmony Divine Pce hasmitted countless atrocities, igniting public outrage and divine wrath. Our mission is to uphold justice for the people of the Heavenly Deity Ster River! No matter how many sacrifices we make, nothing can stop us frompleting this historic mission!"

    These words made it in. If Yun Xiao pushed too far, he was willing to sacrifice Shen Nanyin.

    To him, Shen Nanyin was certainly not more important than the Southern Divine Dragon Realm bing a member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    As long as the Young Dragon Lord dered his banner openly, neither his own elders nor outsiders could fault his decision.

    A mission of justice outweighed the duty of loving one''s wife... This was a kind of moral correctness, wasn''t it?

    "You''re overthinking things. I know exactly what the life of the Young Dragon Consort is worth," Yun Xiao said coldly.

    He drew out the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, cing its azure de once again against Shen Nanyin''s jade-like neck.

    To make her fear more genuine, Yun Xiao temporarily released part of the control from the Prison Warden Sigil. So, Shen Nanyin''s disy of terror toward him was quite real.

    She was like a great white swan gripped by the neck, head tilted back, tears streaming.

    And Yun Xiao, standing close behind her¡ªno matter how handsome¡ªwas, in the eyes of the masses, just a toad wielding a knife, burdened with the identity of a celestial ve.

    "Speak!" The Young Dragon Lord''s voice was deep, but his divine aura spread like a vast sea, locking onto Yun Xiao with a mountain-like pressure.

    Yun Xiao remained utterly unaffected. Casually ncing past the Young Dragon Lord, he said, "My request is simple. I want ten heads from your camp."

    "Ten people?"

    The Young Dragon Lord''s sword-like eyebrows knit together. Suppressing his anger, he asked, "Which ten?"

    Without a moment''s hesitation, Yun Xiao scanned his targets and began, "Gusu Yan, the Bloodvine Young Master, Ah Jiao, Jiang Dongcheng, Hu Li..."

    Ten names were listed in total. These individuals sharedmon traits; they hailed from celestial sects boasting Empyrean Emperor powerhouses at the Eighth Baptism Realm. They were of noble birth and served as the leading figures for their respective sects in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    Each had at least 20 disciples under them.

    The forces of these ten added up to over 200 people. These disciples were the mainstay of this so-called army of justice, stronger than the remaining 200 or so, aside from the Dragon Devil n.

    As Yun Xiao''s words fell, those named wore peculiar expressions.

    "Young Dragon Lord...!" A violet-d youth named Jiang Dongcheng shook his head. "His aim is to control us and oppose you. This will affect the great endeavor of conquering the Extreme Yin Star. We can''t agree."

    "Exactly... if we''re restrained, you might lose over 200 ambitiousrades," Gusu Yan added.

    "We can''t hand over our Personal Pledges. If we''reter controlled by Yun Xiao and anger the Young Dragon Lord, our sects will also be in trouble." The Bloodvine Young Master frowned.

    Though they had united to protect Bai Lu and let her leave, they feared ending up like her.

    As the parties involved, they all refused, and the Dragon Devil n men shook their heads at the Young Dragon Lord.

    Though it was just ten Personal Pledges, the impact was significant.

    "This kid''s purpose is to sow discord among us, preventing us from uniting as one. We absolutely can''t agree!" Ah Jiao said coldly.

    The Young Dragon Lord heard this and looked up at Yun Xiao. "You heard them. The Personal Pledges are their matter; if they won''t agree, I can''t force them. Change your request."

    "No. I have only this request." Yun Xiao''s voice wasn''t loud, but it carried a decisive firmness. He held the three-inch Sword Soul, sliding it across Shen Nanyin''s delicate face, causing her tears to flow as she sobbed, looking at the Young Dragon Lord.

    Yun Xiao then gazed at him, his eyes cold. "The life of the Young Dragon Consort, in exchange for ten Personal Pledges. My words can be witnessed by all the audience in the Million Starlight Pce. If I break my promise, may I be abandoned by the heavens.¡±

    In his casual demeanor, there was a hidden, chilling resolve. Just this alone had already stirred an uproar among the spectators in the Million Starlight Pce.

    After all, the audience had a god''s-eye view. They clearly saw Yun Xiao first deal with Shen Nanyin, likely obtaining her Personal Pledge, as well as how he handled Bai Lu. Now, he had infiltrated their ranks again to kidnap the Young Dragon Consort!

    This series of maneuvers had left many people stunned.

    What made the audience extremely tense was that the Young Dragon Lord and his people werepletely in the dark, still unaware of anything.

    Of course, most were just watching the spectacle. The more Yun Xiao acted like this, the more thrilling they found it. Eyes wide, they watched intently to see how the situation would unfold.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 877 (2) - Cucked to the Brink

    When Yun Xiao firmly demanded the ten Personal Pledges, the Young Dragon Lord''s face turned a shade of gold, fury raging within his chest. If murderous intent could kill, Yun Xiao would have died 10,000 times over.

    "Ten Personal Pledges for one life!" Yun Xiao reiterated. "Young Dragon Lord, the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is merely a contest among geniuses. Sacrificing the life of your beloved wife, leaving your child motherless¡ªis that a choice you can live with?"

    "Silence!"

    "Eunuch dog! Beast! How can you be so despicable!"

    The men of the Dragon Devil n, each stronger than Long Qinyang, were seething with anger, nearly driven mad.

    "Young Dragon Lord, we can''t give in..." Gusu Yan said anxiously, shaking his head.

    "This man is utterly untrustworthy," the Bloodvine Young Master interjected, shaking his head. "He doesn''t fear being abandoned by millions. If we give him the Personal Pledges, he''ll only make new demands! The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm aims for the top ten; if they don''t make it, their entire sect is in peril. Since he has taken a hostage, he''ll use her to the end!"

    He meant that from the moment Shen Nanyin was captured, her fate was sealed.

    "The other side has finally grabbed a lifeline; why would they let it go?""Forget about Shen Nanyin! Kill him, tten the Extreme Yin Star, andplete the mission!" a Dragon Devil n man beside the Young Dragon Lord growled through clenched teeth.

    "Young Dragon Lord, there will be plenty of opportunities to clear our namester. But if we fall into this scoundrel''s rhythm and let him lead us by the nose, we''ll only lose our advantage," another n member added.

    All of them were aware of how much the Young Dragon Lord <em>truly</em> cared about Shen Nanyin.

    "The most important thing is for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to ascend to the Heavenly Deity Alliance and gain widespread support. We can''t let our allies lose heart now. As for women, they''re everywhere; the Extreme Yin Celestial Realmcks none!"

    "Young Dragon Lord, at this critical moment, you must make a choice. The elders need to see your decisive action in dealing with this scoundrel!"

    "For our Southern Divine Dragon Realm to rise, the key is not to dishearten our allies. How can we abandon ten allies for the sake of one woman?"

    The words of the Dragon Devil n members slightly eased the tense hearts of the Bloodvine Young Master and the others. They didn''t wish for strained rtions with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm either.

    In the eyes of the other Dragon Devil n members, the fact that the Young Dragon Lord needed so much persuasion and hadn''t immediately decided to strike down Yun Xiao was already less than ideal.

    They knew he pursued perfection, aiming to achieve both ascension and cherishing his wife. He couldn''t ept that a mere celestial ve might ruin a mission, and so he was torn.

    "Enough!" The Young Dragon Lord indeed possessed spirit. Unable to contain the fury in his heart, he fixed his gaze on Yun Xiao,pletely avoiding Shen Nanyin''s despairing eyes. "The Southern Divine Dragon Realm will not abandon any ally," he dered. "Name another condition, or else you will die here!"

    "Well, isn''t that a coincidence? I won''t give up a single one of those ten Personal Pledges either," Yun Xiao said with a cold smile.

    "Then go to hell!" The Young Dragon Lord could endure no more. He finally let go of Shen Nanyin and, along with all the Dragon Devil n members, surged toward Yun Xiao.

    They were ruthless. But this scene didn''t catch Yun Xiao off guard. Facing this dire situation, he suddenlyughed.

    "Young Dragon Lord, do you know that being humiliated is harder to bear than death?" Yun Xiao said.

    At this moment, no one was listening. The Young Dragon Lord charged ahead like a golden dragon emerging from the sea, roaring toward him.

    "What are you nning to do?" Shen Nanyin panicked.

    "What else? Putting on even more of a show!" Yun Xiao suddenly dered.

    With that, his eyes turned icy. His Sword Soul expanded, and he suddenly wielded the Sovereign Sword, shooting backward at lightning speed. A violent Ice Era swept out, freezing most of the nearby attackers!

    "Ah?" Shen Nanyin gasped, her breath quickening.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Before she could react, Yun Xiao tore open her battle armor! Then, just as the Young Dragon Lord caught a glimpse, he shrouded everything with the Primordial Sphere¡­

    "Ugh¡­!" A moan escaped Shen Nanyin''s lips. Her eyes widened, her expression frozen, then she began to scream. Too many people were watching! She was the wife of the Young Dragon Lord, a taboo among the men of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    She would rather die than be humiliated! She absolutely couldn''t allow herself to be disgraced by a celestial ve in public...

    The most infuriating part was that this celestial ve''s mastery of the Sovereign Sword was absurdly swift. Coupled with the Ice Era, he broke through the encirclement in an instant.

    Then Yun Xiao released the veil of the Primordial Sphere, revealing the disheveled looking Shen Nanyin. He looked down at the Young Dragon Lord and remarked with a smile, "The Young Dragon Consort, not bad at all!"

    In that instant, it was like 100,000 sharp swords stabbing into the Young Dragon Lord''s heart!

    "AHHHH!" The Young Dragon Lord spat fire from his mouth.

    "Give me the ten Personal Pledges now, and you still have a chance. Otherwise, today, in front of all your n members and allies, I don''t n to stop!" Yun Xiaoughed.

    And the most devastating part was that while driving Shen Nanyin to madness, Yun Xiao could still soar through the starry expanse with the Sovereign Sword. Even the Young Dragon Lord couldn''t catch up to him,pletely toyed with under his control!

    The Young Dragon Lord''s hair stood on end, his face entirely golden. Unable to contain himself, he spat out a mouthful of blood. His whole body fumed with rage, his mind buzzing.

    Without turning around, he knew the strange gazes of those behind him!

    He was fully aware of how humiliated he was at this moment in the Million Starlight Pce...

    He finally understood why Yun Xiao said that being humiliated was harder to ept than dying!

    As long as Shen Nanyin remained alive and Yun Xiao kept up the <em>performance</em>, he would continue to feel as if 100,000 swords were piercing his heart¡ªhe might cough up all his blood.

    As of now, all the Young Dragon Lord wanted to do was snatch Shen Nanyin and immediately strike her down. Then, he would have no more ws. So, he roared, "Fine, I agree to your conditions. You can have your ten Personal Pledges!"

 Chapter 878: Politics Inside and Outside the Bubble

    As Yun Xiao had foreseen, when the Young Dragon Lord agreed to his conditions for the release of Shen Nanyin, the Million Starlight Pce exploded into a tidal wave of uproar.

    "An onlooker sees more clearly!"

    From their lofty vantage point, they watched Yun Xiao toy with the Dragon Devil n step by step, utterly amazed.

    Tens of millions of eyes fixed on Yun Xiao''s hands. Though it''d all been concealed by the Primordial Sphere, the imagination of the masses went wild, stirring envy in their hearts. Such a heavenly treasure¡ªwho wouldn''t want to try it?

    "Men of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm value their pride above all!"

    "A lowly celestial ve, right before the dignified Young Dragon Lord, under the gaze of the entire Samsara Gxy, dares to do something so audacious..."

    "What a farce! The entire Dragon Devil n, drooling over the Supreme Yin Cauldron, ended up not even seeing that female devil and lost their Young Dragon Consort instead!"

    "What an extraordinary humiliation!"

    The allure of the Young Dragon Consort¡ªher posture and expression at that moment, her struggle and despair, shame and wailing¡ªwas etched into many hearts."Harmony Divine Pce!"

    Amidst this tidal wave of exmations, the core of the Million Starlight Pce fell into deathly silence.

    Until a furious roar shattered the unbearable quiet!

    The roar came from the section of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªit was the Young Dragon Consort''s father, the Eastguard Dragon King. His face was ashen, his body trembling with rage, eyes bloodshot.

    He bellowed toward the section of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, where only one person sat¡ªthe Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen. A woman, she widened her beautiful eyes at the scene on the screen, her lovely face wearing a peculiar expression.

    She had thought the Young Dragon Lord would boldly kill his wife, leaving Yun Xiao utterly helpless. But this act of provocation actually worked?

    "Truly a bunch of arrogant, self-important men who can''t tolerate the slightest disgrace..."

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had long understood the violent temperament of the Dragon Devil n''s men.

    Now, the Eastguard Dragon King seethed with fury, ring at her, and snarled, "That lowly, despicable celestial ve was trained by you and those three cheap women, wasn''t he? Your Harmony Divine Pce is a dignified member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. Yet, you allow a base ve to use such disgusting means and still have the face to pretend to be chaste goddesses here!"

    Facing this aggressive user, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen remained unafraid. Instead, she smiled slightly and said, "Why so anxious? Wasn''t it your Southern Divine Dragon Realm that mored to capture the 9-Star Boundless Immortal prodigy of our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to serve as the Supreme Yin Cauldron?

    "Isn''t your behavior just as despicable and lowly? Aren''t you just trying to squeeze us out of the Heavenly Deity Alliance? Could it be that after joining the Alliance, you''d give up the so-called Supreme Yin Cauldron? Stop pretending. Yun Xiao is just learning from you. It''s the cycle of heaven¡ªkarmic retribution."

    The Eastguard Dragon King had no retort, nearly choking with rage. Moreover, in terms of status and strength, he was not qualified to challenge the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    "Ice Cloud." Unexpectedly, Gong Tianjian¡ªthe head of the Heavenly Deity Alliance Joint Law Enforcement Division¡ªcalled out to her.

    Seated beside the Golden Dragon Emperor, Gong Tianjian was small but radiated a formidable and solemn presence.

    "Restrain yourself," she said. "In recent years, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm has made indelible contributions to our Heavenly Deity Ster River. We cannot allow you to tarnish their name with reckless words."

    Gong Tianjian hailed from the Elysian Immortal Pce and was the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen''s direct superior. Her words carried weight.

    However, she hadn''t anticipated that the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had already thrown caution to the wind.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen herself knew she no longer had a future in the Law Enforcement Division. She also knew that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm would never release Feng Yao. So, why should she remain submissive?

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen shrugged. "The pure remain pure; the sullied remain sullied. Right and wrong aren''t decided by mere words. Our Harmony Divine Pce isn''t filled with saintesses, but that band of cruel and arrogant thugs is no better. And those who build monuments to such thugs¡ªI wonder what you''d call them?"

    Their conflict was unmasked,id bare for all to see. Around them, the elite cultivators of the Heavenly Deity Ster River listened and watched. As pinnacle powerhouses, these Immortals were well aware of everything between the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and the Harmony Divine Pce.

    This wasn''t a sh between good and evil; it was a struggle between the strong and the weak.

    So people knew that invoking morality for condemnation now was rather pointless.

    This loss, this humiliation¡ªthe Southern Divine Dragon Realm had to swallow it.

    Because of this, aside from the frenzied Eastguard Dragon King, the other experts and elders of the Dragon Devil n didn''t shout or rage. On the contrary, their side was deathly silent, each face as dark as storm clouds.

    They were enduring the humiliation brought upon them by their own youth. The entire Southern Divine Dragon Realm had to bear it. It was a ludicrous case of lifting a stone only to drop it on their own feet. They wanted to seize the Supreme Yin Cauldron? Yet a mere celestial ve had first toyed with their legitimate Young Dragon Consort.

    The suppressed fury among the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s experts would undoubtedly lead to even more ruthless brutality¡ªeveryone understood this.

    But the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen knew even better that in this conflict, the other side wouldn''t show a shred of mercy. If she still dreamed of harmonious coexistence now, she''d be deluding herself.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm was a n that rose through conquest, plunder, and ughter. They worshipped brutality and power. Would they show mercy to their prey?

    Given that, she might as well wholeheartedly support Yun Xiao and relish the satisfaction this young man brought.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen realized that this kid had plenty of tricks up his sleeve.

    "A clever fellow indeed. At such a young age, how does he know to weaken the Dragon Devil n''s strength by sowing discord between the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and its allies?

    "Maybe it''s because he''s free from worldly desires, focusing solely on his wits? Then why is he so interested in the Young Dragon Consort, that little giantess..."

    In her heart, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen found this youth increasingly enigmatic.

    "Perhaps it''s Si Ji''s personal guidance? But Si Ji is obsessed with cultivation; she''s not skilled in such schemes."

    From her understanding of the Three Divas, none of them were adept at intrigue, unlike the Golden Dragon Emperor.

    Thinking of the Golden Dragon Emperor, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen nced in his direction.

    She saw that beside him appeared about 11 imposing figures in luxurious attire. One had to be a master of a Celestial Sourcecore to possess such an aura.

    "Bai Qianli of the Gu God Star, the old fiend of the Bloodvine Demon Grotto... The heads of all the Empyrean Emperor sects on Yun Xiao''s Personal Pledge list have all gone over."

    Her eyes narrowed slightly.

    A Heavenly Monarch Sect was one with a Heavenly Monarch-level expert within its ranks. There were over 10,000 such celestial sects in the Samsara Gxy¡ªthe basic qualification for participating in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    An Empyrean Emperor Sect, however, had one or more experts in the Eighth Baptism Realm. The Harmony Divine Pce and Southern Divine Dragon were considered Empyrean Emperor Sects, including other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    The Eight Dragon Emperors of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm were all in the Eighth Baptism Realm.

    Bai Qianli, the Bloodvine Great Fiend, and other sect masters of Empyrean Emperor Sects¡ªa total of 11 Eighth Baptism Realm powerhouses¡ªhad appeared beside the Golden Dragon Emperor. Combined, their power was not much less than that of the entire Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    "Trying to disrupt their alliance through the youths is indeed impossible. So Bai Qianli and the others must havee to apologize to the Golden Dragon Emperor on behalf of their young ones, to offer exnations and give each other a way out."

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen wasn''t so optimistic as to think that the youths'' Personal Pledges in the Grand Assembly Arena could change the grand alliance of the sects.

    "But it must be said, Yun Xiao has thought it through. If he had only turned Bai Lu, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm could indeed suppress Bai Qianli. But once he has taken down the geniuses of these 11 celestial sects, the Golden Dragon Emperor has to face 11 Eighth Baptism Realm powerhouses. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm cannot possibly push away all these allies.

    "This logic applies within the Grand Assembly Arena as well. With just Bai Lu, the Young Dragon Lord was furious and even dared to kill. But if all 11 stand on the opposite side, hismands won''t be as effective."

    "Moreover, when the Young Dragon Lord agreed to let them hand over their Personal Pledges, it was as if Yun Xiao had forcibly torn a gap in their rtionships. He even scared these Empyrean Emperor sect masters into collectivelying to give an exnation to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, showing how serious this matter was.

    "It was the Young Dragon Lord himself who forced his subordinates to hand over the Personal Pledges to our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. The significance is indeed different. The hearts of those 11 sects'' youths will be affected..."

    The reasoning was simple. Why did they follow the Southern Divine Dragon Realm? Wasn''t it for greater strength, grandeur, and benefits?

    Once Yun Xiao had their Personal Pledges, how could they ensure they wouldn''t be humiliated and eliminated? Their own Taiyi Sourcecores had yet to conquer a single star.

    Therefore, Gusu Yan and the other young prodigies were extremely reluctant to hand over their Personal Pledges. They found it even harder to ept giving it to a lowly celestial ve.

    On top of this, when they returned to their own sects, they would beughingstocks, unable to lift their heads...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 879: A Complete Reversal!

    When the Young Dragon Lord agreed to Yun Xiao''s conditions, Gusu Yan and the ten others, along with the rest of the Dragon Devil n members, all changed their expressions.

    "Young Dragon Lord, you can''t do this!" Gusu Yan quickly frowned and shook his head, deeply anxious.

    "Shut up!" The Young Dragon Lord''s eyes zed as he growled, clearly swept into Yun Xiao''s pace, his heart burning with rage.

    The other Dragon Devil n members wanted to kill Yun Xiao and Shen Nanyin together, but the problem was they had tried and were toote!

    "Young Dragon Lord, that celestial ve''s weakness is the Extreme Yin Star. Let''s forget about him and the Young Dragon Consort. Let''s attack the Extreme Yin Star directly! The Three Divas are on the Extreme Yin Star. We can''t humiliate them in return, but as long as the Three Divas make a move, the Extreme Yin Star will be disqualified for breaking the rules, and that celestial ve will also have to leave!" one of the Dragon Devil n members hurriedly said.

    "Exactly!" The other Dragon Devil n members echoed anxiously.

    "But I don''t want him disqualified; I want him dead here!" the Young Dragon Lord snarled.

    "Young Dragon Lord! Think it over. Once we hand over the Personal Pledges, what will we do?" Ah Jiao said helplessly.

    "You can choose to withdraw from the Grand Assembly Arena!" the Young Dragon Lord snapped.Hearing this, the ten of them exchanged nces, all frowning. They hade bearing the honor of their celestial sects; how could they just withdraw so casually?

    Besides, these were ten Empyrean Emperor Sects, each a dominant power,parable in scale to the former Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    While they were still trying to persuade him, high above, as Yun Xiao grew impatient, Shen Nanyin''s unwilling, trembling, shame-filled, and despairing cries continued, growing louder and louder.

    Each cry was like a towering green mountain crashing onto the Young Dragon Lord''s forehead. He was already burning all over, his insides twisting; he didn''t even dare to look up. That sight could make him vomit blood and suffer grievous harm!

    He could no longer fathom the depth of the humiliation he was enduring.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    These young leaders of the Empyrean Emperor Sects kept emphasizing their own honor, but the Young Dragon Lord paid them no mind. Anger roiled within him; he could stand it no longer!

    "Young Dragon Lord, let''s attack the Extreme Y¡ª" Gusu Yan knew the immense pressure he was under. In his view, since they had already been humiliated, they might as well fight back. But he wasn''t the one involved and couldn''t imagine how a man could remain rational in such a situation.

    <em>SMACK! </em>Before Gusu Yan could finish, the Young Dragon Lord suddenly turned. A palm nearly a foot wide mmed into his face.

    Gusu Yan felt as if he''d been struck by a giant golden beast. Caught unprepared, he was sent flying, crashing into several disciples of his Comet Immortal Gate. He spat out a mouthful of dark blood; half his face was scorched ck, the bones nearly cracking!

    It was as if he''d been pped straight into moltenva.

    "Young Dragon Lord!!" Gusu Yan, usually of mild temperament, exploded. He had set aside the expansion of his own Taiyi Sourcecore to answer the call of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s grand cause, and yet he had to swallow his anger and now suffered such a heavy p, making his vision swim!

    He could no longer contain his fury. Ever since Bai Lu was forced away, he had been holding back, but cracks had begun to form in his heart. Now, those cracks split wide open.

    "Fine! I''ll do my part in rescuing the Young Dragon Consort!"

    In front of everyone, Gusu Yan let out a low growl and handed over half of his green leaf token¡ªthe Personal Pledge¡ªswiftly sending them toward Yun Xiao.

    He found itughable. He wasn''t truly saving Shen Nanyin; the Young Dragon Lord had already shown through his initial actions that he didn''t care about her life or death.

    What Gusu Yan was really saving was the Young Dragon Lord''s honor. That was what this scion of the Dragon Devil n, steeped in its proud traditions, truly cared about¡ªsomething that brooked no challenge.

    "What are the rest of you waiting for? Hurry! Even without you, I''ll achieve everything!" The Young Dragon Lord watched coldly as Gusu Yan handed over his Personal Pledge, then roared at the others.

    The Bloodvine Young Master and Ah Jiao, who were closest to Bai Lu and Gusu Yan, exchanged a helpless nce. With a sigh, they, too, handed over their Personal Pledges.

    "Hurry up!" The Young Dragon Lord''s voice trembled, suppressing who knows how much murderous intent. The sobbing cries overhead continued; it was as if a beautiful flower had been plunged into filth, sinking deeper and deeper, beyond despair.

    Jiang Dongcheng, Hu Li, and the others saw Gusu Yan''s half-charred face and felt they had no choice. After all, they hadn''t started this; whatever happened, they wouldn''t be the ones taking the me.

    So, following Gusu Yan, a total of ten people handed over their pledges.

    All those pledges flew into Yun Xiao''s hands.

    Everyone present, whether their expressions wereplex or filled with rage, looked up in unison, staring intently at the white-clothed youth standing behind the Young Dragon Consort.

    Earlier, none of them had dared to look up; the Young Dragon Consort''s cries were so heartrending¡ªwho knew how ruthless he had been in his actions?

    Nor did they know how much blood stained his hands.

    To everyone''s slight relief, after obtaining the ten Personal Pledges, Yun Xiao actually stopped.

    Shen Nanyin looked as if she had weathered a storm¡ªher face pale, her body drenched in sweat. She gasped for breath, eyes closed in pain and sobbing. As the person involved, she couldn''t imagine what she would face next from the Young Dragon Lord and Million Starlight Pce.

    To make her emotions genuine, Yun Xiao had temporarily returned some of her consciousness, allowing her to fully feel the shame.

    "Do you remember how you humiliated me on the Extreme Yin Star before the battle?" Yun Xiao whispered coldly into her ear, a chilling smile ying on his lips.

    "You... you..." Shen Nanyin was filled with despair and regret, yet also with anger and struggle. A bone-deep chill coursed through her; she couldn''t bear what had just happened. She gritted her teeth and cursed, "Celestial ve! You''ve vited the greatest taboo of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. You will¡ªabsolutely¡ªdie a miserable death¡­"

    She recalled how she had scorned Yun Xiao back then, posing as an arrogant, self-righteous goddess. Now, her hair was disheveled, her spirit broken¡ªlike a plucked swan curled up in a heap.

    "This is considered the Dragon Devil n''s greatest taboo? Is that all? They''re too thin-skinned. If they keep opposing me, they might not have enough blood left to spit out," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Arrogant! Ignorant!" Shen Nanyin bit her lip and rebuked him angrily, revealing the endless reverence and confidence she held deep down for the men of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    "Release her!"

    At that moment, cold and murderous voices rose from below.

    Yun Xiao had obtained the Personal Pledges, but whether he would keep his word was another matter.

    At this point, Gusu Yan, the Bloodvine Young Master, and others were the most anxious. They were utterly passive, caught between a rock and a hard ce.

    Truth be told, they fervently hoped Yun Xiao would honor his promise; otherwise, it would be hard for them to ept him.

    As for the Young Dragon Lord, he clenched his fists tight, his eyes like boiling magma, awaiting the final moment of eruption.

    "Why the rush?" Yun Xiao''s words made everyone''s hearts clench abruptly. He nced at Gusu Yan and the others, smiling. "Congrattions, all of you, for abandoning darkness and turning to the true leader. Come to my side!"

    Hearing this, Gusu Yan and the rest instinctively looked at the Young Dragon Lord. But he offered only hatred and no objection. Bound by their Personal Pledges, they had no choice but to ascend.

    The only slight relief was that Yun Xiao''s attitude toward them seemed amicable.

    As they drew near to this carefree young man, then nced at the Young Dragon Consort under his control¡ªher body drenched in sweat, eyes vacant¡ªthe ten young leaders of the Empyrean Emperor Sects felt indescribablyplex emotions.

    Gusu Yan subconsciously looked at Yun Xiao, his expression growing strange at the young man''s ethereal appearance and recent actions.

    "Gentlemen, please have your disciples step forward and hand over all their Personal Pledges to me," Yun Xiao said lightly but firmly.

    Yun Xiao now held sway over them, effectively restraining their disciples. His request didn''t surprise Gusu Yan and the others in the least.

    After all, from this point on, their sect''s disciples would find it hard to capture the Extreme Yin Star alongside the Young Dragon Lord. So, Gusu Yan and his peers didn''t dwell on it. Everyone was in the same situation; they themselves might be safer this way.

    Moreover, now that the disciples from ten celestial sects were under control¡ªnot just a single sect¡ªthey didn''t fear that their elders would be singled out by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm for retribution.

    "Do as he says!"

    The disciples of the Empyrean Emperor sects obeyed without hesitation. In an instant, their pledges flew toward Yun Xiao. Counting the ten leaders and those from Bai Lu''s side, Yun Xiao tallied¡ªnot one more, not one less¡ªexactly 250 Personal Pledges.

    "All of you,e up here!" As he spoke, Yun Xiao sent out a flying talisman. Before long, Bai Lu appeared with the disciples from the Gu God Star, each wearing a peculiar expression.

    The moment she arrived, Bai Lu called down, "Young Dragon Lord, after we left, we were ambushed by this celestial ve. I couldn''t defeat him and was forced to hand over our Personal Pledges. The elders of the Million Starlight Pce can see everything..."

    Including her, that made 11 Empyrean Emperor Sects.

    Her appearance was another blow, further proving that Yun Xiao had nned to fracture the Young Dragon Lord''s forces from the very beginning. The Young Dragon Lord now looked like a clown; despite his formidable strength, he had lost utterly.

    But the Young Dragon Lord ignored Bai Lu; his eyes were fixed solely on Yun Xiao.

    At this moment, Yun Xiao stood with 250 young geniuses by his side. His momentum matched that of the Young Dragon Lord, perhaps even surpassing it with more elite followers.

    Of course, the Young Dragon Lord''s followers were loyal, but whether those bound by Personal Pledges would fight wholeheartedly was another matter.

    Now, the burning question was¡­ Would Yun Xiao release her?

    Judging from the Young Dragon Lord''s behavior, Shen Nanyin was indeed his Achilles'' heel.

    But everyone knew that if Yun Xiao pushed too far and refused to let go, once the Young Dragon Lord calmed down, his advantage might vanish.

    So, whether he released her or not was crucial.

    Under the gaze of all, Yun Xiao wasn''t one to draw things out.

    "Young Dragon Lord, you''re a good man. I''ll do business with you again next time," Yun Xiao said with a grin.

    He patted Shen Nanyin''s battle armor and casually tossed the nine-foot beauty downward. The proud white swan finally fell back toward her equally proud destined lover.

    "Whew!"

    Many breathed a sigh of relief, thinking it fortunate he was just a ve who could only touch and not prod. Otherwise, if he had truly overstepped, things would have exploded¡ªten times over.

    Everyone knew this celestial ve had the audacity; he was a ruthless man through and through.

    However, the moment Shen Nanyin returned to the Young Dragon Lord''s side, the atmosphere grew tense once more. Because from now on, no matter how elusive Yun Xiao was, nothing could stop the Young Dragon Lord from leveling the Extreme Yin Star to vent his fury...

 Chapter 880: Shattered Alliance

    "Haah¡­ Haah¡­!" Shen Nanyin could no longer hear the tumult around her. In her world, only the sound of her own ragged breaths remained.

    Amidst the vastness of the MIllion Starlight Pce, she couldn''t fathom how many strange and usatory eyes were upon her.

    Her golden curls hung disheveled, and her battle armor was ripped apart¡ªthe lingering traces of the unbearable memories from that nightmarish moment. Her heart felt as if it had plunged into an icy abyss, cold seeping into her very soul.

    More than anyone, she knew what fate awaited her from this moment on, as the rare and <em>esteemed</em> woman of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    "No, no, he''ll understand me. I was forced!" Clinging desperately to hope, Shen Nanyin summoned her courage, steadied herself, and ran toward the warm, imposing embrace she yearned for¡ªthe truly strong and noble man she revered.

    As she lifted her head, her trembling, tear-filled eyes met the gaze of the Young Dragon Lord.

    In that fleeting moment their eyes met, Shen Nanyin felt as if 10,000 des pierced her heart. She faltered, her steps slowing instinctively, her mind a nk void. For in his eyes, she saw only unyielding coldness.

    It was a gaze that looked upon her as a drowned rat, as if she were smeared with filth and stench. He not only ignored her but silently warned her to stay away. Otherwise, he might truly y her on the spot!

    Despair and anguish overwhelmed Shen Nanyin because she felt his undisguised intent to kill..."No, please don''t." She felt so cold, shivering uncontrobly. This was when she most needed a warm embrace, but all he offered was the edge of an icy de.

    She knew with absolute certainty that he intended to kill her! But now, with so many eyes watching, and since she had escaped danger, if he killed her now¡ªeven if the Young Dragon Lord seized the Extreme Yin Star¡ªboth his missions would be utter failures.

    Moreover, the Young Dragon Lord would leave the entire Samsara Gxy with the impression of a man who couldn''t ept defeat! So, he restrained himself once again. He suppressed his seething killing intent, choosing to ignore Shen Nanyin.

    From this moment on, as long as she lived, she was an indelible stain upon his honor. The shame was too immense. Atst, he had reached this pivotal moment.

    Confronting Yun Xiao and iming the Extreme Yin Star was now his utmost priority, surpassing any need to deal with Shen Nanyin. Nothing could halt the raging inferno within him now.

    "Come!" The Young Dragon Lord raised his hand, his entire being engulfed in golden mes. He stepped past Shen Nanyin and turned to gaze down upon Yun Xiao.

    That was precisely where the Extreme Yin Stary.

    "Charge!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    About 20 members of the Dragon Devil n¡ªthey were the elite of the elite¡ªgathered beside the Young Dragon Lord. Furious beyond measure, some had already transformed into their dragon devil forms, showcasing explosive killing power at his slightest growl.

    Behind them stood around 250 others who still held onto their own Personal Pledges, remaining by the Young Dragon Lord''s side.

    "Finally, the battle begins!"

    "Stay close to the Young Dragon Lord!"

    These 250 weren''t as enraged as the Dragon Devil n members; after all, the Young Dragon Lord''s humiliation didn''t reflect on them.

    In a sh, these prodigies from the Heavenly Deity Ster River had assembled a force capable of sweeping through the Grand Assembly Arena.

    "Ah, the Young Dragon Lord is such a devoted man¡ªwilling to forsake his allies to protect the Young Dragon Consort!"

    Someone, not too bright, tried to tter him but instantly regretted it; his words only added fuel to the fire.

    After all, the Young Dragon Consort had already been disgraced, and most of the Young Dragon Lord''s alliance was temporarily lost. Personal Pledges were even more binding than the Parent g and, by the rules, the hardest to break.

    But none of that changed the Dragon Devil n''s frenzied battle intent.

    Facing this explosive fury, Yun Xiao¡ªthe white-d youth who stirred up storms¡ªremained remarkably calm. Hisposure inexplicably eased the nerves of many anxious souls.

    "Enter the Extreme Yin Star Barrier," Yun Xiao ordered without wasting words. Through the Personal Pledges, he issuedmands to the 250 <em>captives</em> he had imed.

    Commands via Personal Pledges were even more precise and binding than those through the Parent g. This was why Gusu Yan, Jiang Dongcheng, and others had initially refused so adamantly.

    Under normal circumstances, even if the Young Dragon Lord forced them to hand over their Personal Pledges, they would find it hard to agree.

    After all, they were allies on the surface.

    But now, under another''s roof, they knew exactly how Yun Xiao would use them. Even though their faces showed difort and helplessness, before the countdown ended, they all followed Yun Xiao into the frigid, surging Extreme Yin Star Barrier.

    Once they pledged to Yun Xiao, the benefit was that the Taiyin Immortal Formation would not attack them but would protect them instead.

    What slightly surprised Yun Xiao was that the first to respond to hismand was Bai Ao¡ªthe younger brother of Bai Lu from the Gu God Star.

    His face was still wrapped in bandages, yet an inexplicable excitement gleamed in his eyes.

    It was his lead that prompted the other <em>captives</em> to enter the Extreme Yin Star Barrier one after another.

    "A Personal Pledge doesn''t equal true loyalty; there''s still a long way before they fight wholeheartedly for me." Yun Xiao knew well.

    Although he had set the stage with Bai Ao and the humiliation of Shen Nanyin, breaking their alliance entirely wouldn''t be so simple.

    Even with the 11 Empyrean Emperor Sects banding together, figures like Bai Lu and Gusu Yan still held a wary respect for the Young Dragon Lord.

    "But once the seeds of distrust are sown, the rift will only widen!" Yun Xiao smirked coldly to himself.

    Amid the roaring blizzard of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, Yun Xiao stood before the 250 prodigies of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Borrowing their momentum, this <em>celestial ve</em> inexplicably appeared graceful, transcendent, and poised¡ªalmost matching the furious Young Dragon Lord across from him.

    It was like a little white rabbit boldly challenging a true dragon, both astonishing and awe-inspiring.

    "Big Bro Yun Xiao!"

    A voice suddenly called from behind.

    Turning, Yun Xiao saw it was the young Bai Ao¡ªa fearlessd with unbending character.

    Though bandages still wrapped his face, his spirit allowed him to see. While hisbat abilities were impaired, his daily life remained unaffected.

    He sidled up to Yun Xiao, winking and giving a thumbs-up. Whispering, he said, "You''re incredible! I''d call you the number one Master of Humiliation in the Samsara Gxy! You''ve really helped me vent my frustrations."

    Connecting his own plight with Yun Xiao''s actions, it did seem like Shen Nanyin had hoisted herself by her own petard.

    If the kid knew that even his situation had been orchestrated by Yun Xiao, he''d probably spit blood.

    "''Master of what?''" Yun Xiao blinked.

    "Don''t get me wrong¡ªhumiliation as in shaming, not cucking!" Bai Ao chuckled.

    Their exchange was overheard by many nearby. Some couldn''t suppress theirughter, but realizing it was inappropriate, they quickly stifled themselves.

    "Bai Ao!" Not far away, Bai Lu heard and approached with a face ashen with anger. Grabbing his ear, she scolded, "You never learn! What nonsense are you spouting? A gentleman behaves with propriety; only then does he align with the Heavenly Dao. Don''t imitate shameless people!"

    Clearly, as a woman, she empathized with the Young Dragon Consort.

    "I don''t care. Shen Nanyin used her beauty as a weapon to kill, and the Young Dragon Lord still wants to destroy us. They deserve the bacsh," Bai Ao continued to mutter under his breath, chattering incessantly, even as he was being dragged away by the ear.

    The others watched this sibling spat with mixed feelings.

    They all knew Yun Xiao had deliberately exploited the Young Dragon Lord''s arrogance to sever them from his alliance. Setting aside their own positions and any disdain for a celestial ve, the fact that Yun Xiao had achieved this on his own was admirable in both courage and audacity.

    In contrast, the Young Dragon Lord, despite his immense power and influence, was being led by the nose!

    "Still, resorting to threats and coercion can only gain small advantages. Now, the Young Dragon Lord doesn''t need to worry about saving face. His overwhelming advantage can''t be overturned by anyone..."

    Such thoughts circted in the minds of Gusu Yan, the Bloodvine Young Master, Ah Jiao, Jiang Dongcheng, and others. They watched on with a cold detachment.

    "Yun Xiao!"

    At that moment, eight captivating figures approached the crowd.

    Whether it was Feng Yao or Wan Ji''s seven daughters, their beauty, elegance, and ethereal aura were unmatched, instantly drawing countless admiring gazes!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 881: The Third Party!

    Feng Yao was especially beautiful. She wasn''t as tall and imposing as the Young Dragon Consort, but rather just right. In terms of proportions, she was undoubtedly superior¡ªmore perfect. The unique cold allure brought by her Mortal Dust Devil Blood was unmatched under the heavens.

    In short, Feng Yao was the world''s most perfect devil girl. She could make the heart of every man flutter. The Young Dragon Consort was someone most could only admire from afar, leaning toward an extreme, grandiose beauty.

    The Young Dragon Lord, along with some young men of the Dragon Devil n, saw Feng Yao clearly for the first time. His eyes locked onto her, as if freed from the humiliation moments before. The anger in his gaze quickly transformed into greed, burning even more fiercely.

    Many people instantly realized something¡­

    "Feng Yao is Yun Xiao''s mistress. If the Young Dragon Lord wants to erase the shame brought upon him by the Young Dragon Consort, there''s only one way¡ªto bring down Feng Yao, putting the shoe on the other foot. Perhaps even in a real confrontation, and preferably in a crowded ce, to create a visual spectacle..."

    With that in mind, they could fully imagine how reckless the Young Dragon Lord might be.

    However, that captivating maiden paid the Young Dragon Lord no heed. After she appeared, all her attention was on Yun Xiao.

    She approached him, gave a yful re, andined, "Tell me, why didn''t you let use up earlier?"

    "You wouldn''t understand, even if I exined," Yun Xiao replied calmly.Everyone was caught off guard by their conversation, their minds buzzing.

    "Aren''t they master and servant? How is this celestial ve so audacious?"

    Actually, they guessed right¡ªthey were indeed master and servant, just the other way around.

    "Yun Xiao, how did these people enter the Extreme Yin Star Barrier without being..." Hai Qing and her sisters saw the army of 500 people, their minds equally buzzing. At first nce, they thought these people had broken in.

    They were almost scared to tears.

    The Young Dragon Lord was overly cautious, bringing 500 geniuses to fight nine people.

    Even being this cautious, if he still lost, who would believe it?

    Yun Xiao didn''t let them worry for long and said, "I''ve secured their Personal Pledges. Now, these 250 are our sworn brothers and sisters of Carefree Windy Clouds! From now on, we''ll fight side by side, live and die together."

    Hearing this, Bai Lu and the others couldn''t help but roll their eyes, while Hai Qing and her group stood frozen like ice sculptures. When they could move, they pinched themselves, wondering if they were dreaming.

    "How did you manage this?" Feng Yao asked, equally astonished and hesitant.

    "What do you think? Pure charisma," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Well, he threat¡ª" Bai Ao began, grinning sheepishly.

    Before he could finish, Bai Lu mped her hand around his neck, making him stick out his tongue, nearly choking him unconscious.

    "Ha!"

    This odd exchange and the rxed atmosphere made peopleugh for no apparent reason.

    Even Bai Lu hadn''t expected that by restraining her hotheaded brother, she''d add to Yun Xiao''s charm.

    The natural warmth on this side stood in sharp contrast to the oppressive, cold, and violent aura under the Young Dragon Lord''smand.

    "So you''re the one called the Young Dragon Lord?" Feng Yao didn''t flinch. Facing the ten-foot-tall man, she patted Yun Xiao''s shoulder and said, "Our numbers are about even now, Lil Yun. Go on, take his head among thousands."

    Was this confidence born from something solid, or was she just putting on a brave face?

    Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the Bloodvine Young Master were all puzzled, trying to make sense of it.

    On the Young Dragon Lord''s side, how could he tolerate such provocation? He stepped forward, mes igniting around him. With a wave of his hand, he issued a directmand: "Kill!"

    Such ruthless and indiscriminate orders showcased the Young Dragon Lord''s arrogance and disdain, making Gusu Yan and the others feel a chill in their hearts.

    Even if he had specified killing only those from the Extreme Yin Star, Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the others would have felt a bit better. But he just gave a generalmand to kill. So, didn''t that make them targets too?

    In an instant, led by a group of Dragon Devil n geniuses, the team of Immortal Dao prodigies behind the Young Dragon Lord stirred restlessly. Battle intent rose as they moved forward.

    A vast and chilling killing intent enveloped the Taiyin Star.

    Facing such ferocious intent, Yun Xiao remained calm. Without hesitation, he ordered the pledges, "Kill the Dragon Devil n before you!"

    After themand, the 250 people behind him didn''t react; no green light appeared before their eyes.

    "You can''t force people to kill directly in the Grand Assembly Arena," Hai Qing exined. "They can only attack or defend and can''t ept overlyplex orders."

    "It''s not a loophole; it gives the captives some freedom," Hai Ying added. "If they had to follow your every order, there''d be no fun in it."

    "Understood," Yun Xiao nodded. He didn''t mind and immediately changed themand. "Defend the Extreme Yin Parent g with all your might. Protect the disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce!"

    These twomands were epted. The second one also restricted their actions. As for whether they''d give their all, there was still some room to maneuver. But there was a bottom line, especially with Personal Pledges, where the constraints were stricter.

    To avoid crossing that line, they had to fight.

    The battle orders came with a countdown. After the twomands were issued, the 250 people exchanged nces. Then, like Lei Ting and the others before, they enteredbat mode, matching their opponents in momentum.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Once both sides readied forbat, even before any fighting began, the differences became clear.

    On Yun Xiao''s side, the 250 were from eleven Empyrean Emperor Sects¡ªthe most elite and powerful geniuses who had been at the Young Dragon Lord''s side, second only to the Dragon Devil n.

    On the Young Dragon Lord''s side, those remaining included over 100 Taiji Disciples from various Heavenly Monarch Sects, with few Samsara Disciples, and another 100 or so who were just passing by to watch the spectacle.

    The Young Dragon Lord had actually recruited 400 people.

    These onlookers had cultivation levels in the Early to Mid stages of the Third Baptism Realm. Some were even in the Second Baptism Realm.

    More importantly, they knew their own limits.

    Originally, with 500 against 9, they dared to join in. All they had to do was step in and stomp around a bit, and they could boast about itter.

    But now, with Yun Xiao, the disciples of Harmony Divine Pce, 250 elites, and the Extreme Yin Star Barrier standing before them, going up would be a fight to the death. Was it worth it?

    The small sects felt no pressure regarding the Grand Assembly Rankings; they participated in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects just for fun.

    So, when the Dragon Devil n led about 100 disciples forward, over 150 people at the rear stood frozen, exchanging uneasy nces, falling out of step with the <em>righteous army</em>.

    "What are you doing? Charge!" a Dragon Devil n disciple turned and shouted hoarsely.

    With that shout, about 20 more people joined in.

    But the rest remained rooted, faces tense. Some even began to quietly retreat, covering their faces as they fled.

    Once someone fled, more followed.

    As the dam broke, the remaining 100 or so scattered in all directions.

    These people were weak inbat strength, there just to make up numbers and bolster morale. Their escape didn''t greatly impact the Young Dragon Lord''s fighting power. After all, on Yun Xiao''s side, there would likely be many who would hold back.

    But the problem was, during the confrontation, the rear of the Young Dragon Lord''s side began to flee first. This was a massive blow to their morale and fighting spirit.

    They already seemed outnumbered. Now, they were even fewer. The numbers were now two to one in Yun Xiao''s favor.

    Backed by the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, the Young Dragon Lord''s forces seemed to be facing an insurmountable wall. How could this still be a lion hunting a rabbit? It had be a lion battling an elephant.

    Losing momentum before the fight even began¡ªsuch a shift could be fatal in any confrontation.

    "Young Dragon Lord!" A green-haired youth from the Dragon Devil n named Long Zhaochuan gritted his teeth. "If we fight now, our losses might be significant..."

    "Stop spouting nonsense," the Young Dragon Lord replied coldly. "Bai Lu and the others are just putting on a show. Where would they find the courage to oppose me? y Yun Xiao; he''s the Star Liege. Or force the Three Diva to act, disqualifying the Harmony Divine Pce¡ªthat would settle this mess!"

    "Yes!"

    At its core, it was still a battle between the Dragon Devil n and Harmony Divine Pce. The others were essentially just spectators.

    "Attack!"

    At the Young Dragon Lord''smand, even with only 100 men, they charged fiercely downward.

    Below were Yun Xiao, Feng Yao, Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, the Bloodvine Young Master, and others. Some remained calm as still water; others were turbulent inside, wrestling with inner turmoil.

    In the Grand Assembly Arena, many grew tense.

    Yet at this most critical moment, Yun Xiao nced in another direction and murmured, "They''ve been watching from the sidelines for so long¡ªare they nning to y the fisherman or step in and offer some bait?"

    "What do you mean?" Bai Lu asked, puzzled.

    He pointed with his hand. "It''s thetter¡ªthey''reing."

    Startled, Bai Lu looked where he pointed. Emerging from the starry void were about 100 geniuses of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. These people seemed more noble and graceful, exuding a righteousness that surpassed both the Dragon Devil n and Harmony Divine Pce.

    "It''s the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea..." Bai Lu''s pupils narrowed, her heart trembling.

    Hai Qing and the others also looked over, eximing, "Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and Meng Huan¡ªthey''ve alle!"

 Chapter 882: Zu Wei!

    A fierce battle steeped in shame was abruptly halted by the sudden arrival of a third party, like a bucket of ice water dousing roaring mes.

    Previously feeling flustered, Wan Ji''s seven daughters now felt relief wash over them like a sweet spring. The 250 prodigies under Yun Xiao''smand had been struggling, unsure of what to do. Upon seeing those from the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, they finally breathed a sigh of relief.

    Opposite them, the furious Dragon Devil n members frowned deeply, their shame and rage smoldering like wisps of smoke. Among them, the Young Dragon Lord''s emotions were the most contorted. He had already thrown caution to the wind, unable to wait even a moment to avenge his humiliation.

    This sickening sensation was akin to a horse bolting forward, only to have its neck jerked back by a rope.

    The Young Dragon Lord''s face flushed red, seething with unbearable difort.

    "Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, Meng Huan, and..." A Dragon Devil n youth named Long Zhaochuan listed the names of the leading figures, his eyes flushed crimson.

    His gaze swept over 100 disciples of this third party. Upon spotting a particr figure, he suddenly shuddered, gritting his teeth and rasping, "Young Dragon Lord, it''s Zu Wei!"

    In truth, without his announcement, many eyes among the Dragon Devil n had already locked onto a single individual. It was a woman d in a ck and white gown, standing between Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu¡ªlike the moon embraced by a canopy of stars.

    Her radiance wasn''t born of breathtaking beauty but of noble, ancient lineage and demeanor. Her long hair was interwoven ck and white¡ªck like strands of ink, white like golden threads¡ªthat did not age her but rather gleamed brilliantly. Though she wore a semi-transparent veil, her exquisite and graceful figure clearly marked her as a noble beauty of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.This kind of beauty was naturally different from the voluptuous allure of the Young Dragon Consort Shen Nanyin. Hers was a refined beauty, somewhat aloof, making her hard to approach and even harder to pique one''s interest. At most, she might inspire a fleeting desire to conquer, but clearly, given her heritage, status, and demeanor, no one could realize such unrealistic fantasies.

    Some people, even without relying on beauty, wealth, or allure, could capture every gaze the moment they appeared, bing the center of attention. And this young woman in the ck and white gown, named Zu Wei, was just such a person. She seemed like a born judge,pelling others to lower their heads in submission.

    The Young Dragon Lord, towering at ten feet tall, gazed upon this woman who barely reached his waist, whose entire frame was thinner and shorter than one of his thighs. Yet, his golden brows knitted deeply. His chest, once brimming with volcanic magma on the verge of eruption, was suddenly forced back down.

    All those behind him came to a halt alongside him.

    The Young Dragon Lord fixed his gaze on the girl in the ck and white dress, his tone cold and dangerous.

    "Zu Wei¡­ My words represent the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. I, along with my allies, am crusading against the fiends of the Extreme Yin Star to avenge my personal humiliation. I will not rest until my goal is achieved. Your appearance now¡ªis it to lend me a hand?"

    Zu Wei was not one for smooth words; on the contrary, she seemed all sharp edges. Her cold eyes swept over the giant with golden dragon horns. She replied, "I''vee to stop you from attacking the Extreme Yin Star."

    The Dragon Devil n and their followers immediately bristled with discontent, muttering curses under their breath. The expressions of the Dragon Devil n members grew especially grim.

    Zu Wei''s statement was tantamount to a deration of war. Even if this was merely youthful skirmishing in the Grand Assembly Arena, it was still a signal.

    What was the attitude of the old factions of the Heavenly Deity Alliance¡ªlike the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce¡ªtoward the rise of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and the widespread resentment against the Harmony Divine Pce? The hundreds of millions of spectators in the MIllion Starlight Pce, including forces beyond the Heavenly Deity Ster River, were eager to know.

    At least, the Elysian Immortal Pce and Southern Divine Dragon Realm were clearly staunch allies; the old powerful sect and the rising new power seemed to be on brotherly terms.

    So, the stance of the Ancestral Land¡ªan even older hegemon of the Heavenly Deity Ster River that rivaled the Elysian Immortal Pce¡ªwas indeed critical.

    Before Zu Wei''s deration, the Ancestral Land had never expressed any opinion on the rise of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. They had even voted in favor during the meeting to judge the Harmony Divine Pce, forcing the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm out of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    None of this was a secret. Under such circumstances, Zu Wei had stille to save the Extreme Yin Star? Was this the will of her elders, or her personal whim?

    Many sought to discern the true intentions of the powers behind these youths through their actions. Consequently, thisrge-scale conflict among the three parties suddenly drew attentionparable to Yun Xiao''s grand spectacle.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The Million Starlight Pce buzzed with excitement.

    For a time, the powerhouses from the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea also drew many gazes.

    Among them, Empyrean Emperor Mu and the Great Dream Lord, seated together, were the most eye-catching.

    Each had offspring following Zu Wei and were prominent figures representing the Ancestral Land and the Nine Yin Soul Sea. The two conversed happily, attracting many sidelong nces.

    "Zu Wei''s intuition is indeed sharp," the Great Dream Lord of the Nine Yin Soul Sea remarked softly, gazing at the girl in the ck and white dress.

    "Mhm," Empyrean Emperor Mu nodded. "We have the perspective of the heavens, so we can see Yun Xiao''s recent actions more clearly and recognize that he''s truly talented. Yet she, without this vantage point, can still make the judgment to support him against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªit indeed requires courage."

    "She represents the Ancestral Land; every word and action requires great nerve." The Great Dream Lord''s gaze was cold. "However, this Yun Xiao holds the Personal Pledges of 250 prodigies. With his methods, he could be a powerful force in the Grand Assembly Arena. Truly valuable."

    "Originally, I thought the disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce would soon meet utter defeat." Empyrean Emperor Mu stroked his long beard. "We could form an alliance, do them a favor. But unexpectedly, we can actually use them to suppress those little devil dragons."

    "If we don''t press them now and let them take first ce again, public opinion in the Heavenly Deity Ster River will gradually shift." The Great Dream Lord sneered. "By then, who can suppress this greedy dragon?"

    She couldn''t help it; the Nine Yin Soul Sea and Southern Divine Dragon Realm had a blood feud. Historically, they''d dealt heavy blows to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Among the ten members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, the Nine Yin Soul Sea was the least capable of drawing in the Dragon Devil n.

    "The Harmony Divine Pce still has hope." Empyrean Emperor Mu smiled faintly. "If we pull some strings inside and out, perhaps they''ll give us some surprises."

    "Indeed, those Three Divas are valiant at heart," the Great Dream Lord agreed. "Though they''re no match for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm overall, as long as they can chip away at that evil dragon, it benefits everyone..."

    After speaking, she looked toward the other Heavenly Deity Alliance sects like the Elysian Immortal Pce. Finally, her gaze fell on Gong Tianjian, the head of the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s Joint Law Enforcement Division.

    "That old woman," the Great Dream Lord said with contempt, "was well-served by the Dragon Devil n when she was young and got bewitched. If she doesn''t die, the Heavenly Deity Alliance will be hijacked one by one."

    Her gaze was disdainful and venomous. Such disgust was hard to fake, and everyone knew it.

    But many hadn''t expected that, now that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s entry into the Heavenly Deity Alliance was a done deal, the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea would truly stand up and oppose the tide of history.

    Zu Wei''s actions were just those of a junior, but at this moment, they stirred turbulent undercurrents in the Million Starlight Pce.

    Everyone continued to watch the next moves of these young people.

    Clearly, the Young Dragon Lord was only growing more furious.

    Nothing had gone his way today.

    From Bai Ao to Yun Xiao, and now to Zu Wei, each time he failed to vent his anger, his pent-up rage only built up more explosively.

    "Disciples of the Ancestral Land and the Nine Yin Soul Sea," the Young Dragon Lord roared, still suppressing his fury, "are you really sure you want to stand with these fiendish women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and oppose the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River?"

    His thunderous voice, filled with rage and threat, swept over the disciples of the Ancestral Land, Nine Yin Soul Sea, and celestial sects that followed them.

    His aura was overwhelming.

    He didn''t stop, continuing in a deep voice, "You''d better think carefully. Right now, hundreds of millions of cultivators in the Samsara Gxy are watching. As members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, you should uphold the righteousness of the entire ster river. But you''ve chosen to act as aplices to evil. How many will be disappointed in you, and in the elders, history, and honor behind you!"

    "Young Dragon Lord!" Zu Wei fixed him with her cold gaze and suddenly smiled faintly. "Why so much grandstanding? Is it because you''re afraid to fight, so you can only scare people? That can''t be it, right? Aren''t you from the invincible and valiant Dragon Devil n, known for killing on the spot when words don''t agree?"

    Her words were like a p across the Young Dragon Lord''s face.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 883: King of Enduring!

    Zu Wei, the girl in the ck and white dress, spoke coldly once more, "As for this so-called battle between good and evil, your Dragon Devil n should stop making a mockery of it. Your rise was built upon countless wronged souls and corpses¡ªI have all the data. With so many watching now, if I expose everything, won''t your performance be for nothing? Seeing how much your wife has suffered from that celestial ve, I truly can''t bear to let you return empty-handed."

    Her words were like another p, striking the Young Dragon Lord square in the face. This time, she was rubbing salt into the wound.

    "So now, are you still going to pinbels on me? For years, it has been our Ancestral Land maintaining order in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, not you. Don''t pretend to be saints before us; you don''t even have a decent ancestral tomb."

    Once she began, Zu Wei showed no mercy. She nced toward the Extreme Yin Star and smiled faintly. "I wasn''t interested in the Extreme Yin Star at first, but now someone holds the Personal Pledges from 250 captives. If I take over here andmand those captives, how much territory would I instantly control? The Grand Assembly Arena is all about conqueringnds. Don''t act righteous in front of me¡ªyou are the Dragon Devil n, not sanctimonious hypocrites!"

    Her straightforward words cut deep, piercing through pretense. With the weight of her n''s heritage, she dismantled the Young Dragon Lord''s methods of winning hearts and minds, exposing his use of justice to mislead the masses.

    It would have been better if the Young Dragon Lord hadn''t mentioned justice. Bringing it up only humiliated him further. Due to the high attention, his two main objectives¡ªupholding justice and showing love for his wife¡ªhad both gone up in smoke.

    The former was ruined by Zu Wei, thetter lost to Yun Xiao.

    At that moment, though the battlefield was aze, the atmosphere plunged into icy silence. The Dragon Devil n members and their followers felt as if knives were twisting in their hearts. They could hardly imagine how stifled and aggrieved the Young Dragon Lord must have felt.

    Everything had been going so smoothly. With strategies in hand and allies at every turn¡ªa 500-strong army of geniuses, a lion hunting a rabbit...Yet, they kept hitting walls. Before they could throw a single punch, they were already bruised and battered. What was happening?

    Zu Wei''s sudden appearance and firm stance were clearly tied to Yun Xiao''s heaven-defying performance. The Young Dragon Lord was now facing the bacsh of forsaking 11 Empyrean Emperor Sect allies for the sake of pride, suffering at Zu Wei''s hands.

    Realizing this, one could see how his fury boiled over¡ªbeyond what any ordinary man could bear.

    "Young Dragon Lord, a warrior can be killed but not humiliated. We''re willing to fight to the death with you¡ªto y Zu Wei, Meng Huan, and those sanctimonious hypocrites, then destroy Yun Xiao, seize Feng Yao, and wash away our shame, openly and honorably!" Long Zhaochuan was already aze with anger; his eyes locked onto the Young Dragon Lord, his voice seething.

    Not just him¡ªthe other members of the Dragon Devil n felt the same. They could no longer stand it.

    Meanwhile, the 100 followers exchanged uneasy nces. They looked in bewilderment at Zu Wei''s elite force of over 100 elite talents, then down at the Extreme Yin Star''s 250 geniuses below.

    Unless they were fools, they knew that if the Young Dragon Lord chose to fight two opponents at once, he''d be courting death. Moreover, they were certain to be cannon fodder.

    In that moment, while the Dragon Devil n continued to roar, these followers felt their legs trembling subconsciously. Intentional or not, they wanted to retreat to the back of the crowd, aiming simply to survive.

    "Senior Sister Zu Wei, Junior Brother Meng Huan, Senior Brothers Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu," Hai Qing stepped forward and softly called out, her face lit with joy.

    With that single line, she said nothing more, but it perfectly revealed that their rtionship was not as simple as Zu Wei had imed.

    Although Zu Wei didn''t respond, Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and Meng Huan all smiled and nodded toward Hai Qing and her six sisters.

    This was a signal.

    In an instant, the Dragon Devil n and the Young Dragon Lord''s followers understood: there was no such thing as two factions fighting over one. The Extreme Yin Star and Zu Wei''s group were on the same side. If a battle broke out, who would suffer? ?

    "Young Dragon Lord, no matter what, we are willing to fight alongside you to the death, to preserve our might and honor!" Seeing some people starting to slip away behind him, Long Zhaochuan grew anxious and deliberately spoke loudly for all to hear.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Fight to the death?" The Young Dragon Lord suddenly asked with a smile.

    "Ah?" Long Zhaochuan waspletely stunned.

    After a double humiliation, even though he wasn''t the Young Dragon Lord himself, he was already furious enough to risk his life.

    Yet the Young Dragon Lord smiled, appearing carefree, as if all his anger had vanished. Was he a bottomless pit, a professional at enduring humiliation?

    Long Zhaochuan stood there like a block of wood. The other members of the Dragon Devil n were much the same. They had all been ready to go all out, to vent this pent-up anger.

    "Young Dragon Lord, you..." Long Zhaochuan''s voice trembled.

    "For the sake of momentary pride, you would ruin a lifetime''s future." The Young Dragon Lord took a light breath and smiled again. He cast a contemptuous nce at the Extreme Yin Star and Zu Wei''s group, saying, "We, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, have five Young Dragon Lords in the Grand Assembly Arena and thousands of followers. We clearly have the power to crush the entire field. Why rush now, insisting on showing off in a minor skirmish, sacrificing my brothers'' lives for my personal humiliation?"

    Hearing this, Long Zhaochuan and the others felt both proud and moved. They had always admired the Young Dragon Lord, but now they admired him even more, prostrating themselves in admiration, calling him the <em>Enduring Dragon.</em>

    "A temporary setback is not a bad thing. Preserving our forces allows us to make aeback. There will always be a day when we y the unworthy and im dominance. Why should I care about a few moments of humiliation, falling into the enemy''s trap, sinking deeper, and losing everything?"

    The Young Dragon Lord lifted his head slightly, havingpletely freed himself. He cast a contemptuous nce at Yun Xiao, Feng Yao, Zu Wei, and the others. In his hand, four flying talismans silently shot forth.

    Cupping his hands, he smiled at Zu Wei. "Since the honorable members of the Ancestral Land are interested in the Extreme Yin Star, we, of humble status and meager strength, shall wisely retreat. Farewell, everyone. Until we meet again."

    With those words, he swallowed his immense humiliation and turned away instantly, not looking at anyone, striding off into the distance.

    "Young Dragon Lord!"

    Members of the Dragon Devil n followed, their hearts heavy and conflicted.

    They couldn''t, like the Young Dragon Lord, digest such fury so easily. Their eyes were bloodshot as they red back at the Extreme Yin Star and Zu Wei, their gazes filled with venomous hatred.

    Indeed, they would definitely return. As for the followers, they all breathed a sigh of relief. No matter how great the Young Dragon Lord''s humiliation was, they had at least saved their own cannon-fodder lives.

    Originally, it was 500 versus 9. Who could have predicted they''d be cannon fodder in an instant?

    Life was unpredictable. And the most unpredictable of all was the Young Dragon Consort, Shen Nanyin.

    Before the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects began, she had stood atop the Extreme Yin Star, mocking Yun Xiao as ipetent and cowardly, brimming with arrogance and self-importance.

    But now, her own husband hadn''t looked at her once from start to finish. She had be the greatest humiliation for the Young Dragon Lord and all the men of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, with no face left to show.

    Where was her future? Her heart was utterly empty, filled with fear. Like a walking corpse, pale tears streaming down her face, she followed distantly behind the Young Dragon Lord. Her steps were unsteady, her delicate body swaying like a wandering soul. She couldn''t have been more miserable.

    A proud swan, humiliated by a toad of a celestial ve, before the entire Samsara Gxy. No matter where she went, she endured strange looks from others.

    But at least she had the Young Dragon Lord to share these years of unbearable humiliation.

    As for the fact that the Young Dragon Lord could endure at such a moment¡ªwhether he would be a coward and aughingstock or be praised as a king of endurance and ruthlessness¡ªonly time would tell.

    After they left, suddenly, someoneughed.

    Theughter came from Bai Ao. He clutched his stomach,ughing uproariously, nearly delirious with joy; even his sister Bai Lu couldn''t stop him.

    Bai Lu had been anxious, but thenughter erupted all around¡ªnot only from those beside her but also from the disciples of the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea.

    They couldn''t hold back any longer.

    "Hahaha!"

    In an instant,ughter spread from the Extreme Yin Star to the Million Starlight Pce. It was a moment of collective celebration. Needless to say, the faces of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s experts were dark beyond measure.

    "Senior Sister Zu Wei!"

    At this moment, Hai Qing and her six sisters, faces full of joy and gratitude, approached the noble and proud girl in the ck and white dress.

    In fact, Zu Wei was younger than they were, but ability came first.

    High above in the starry void, Mu Zixiao and the others all wore smiles, while Zu Wei''s expression beneath her veil remained cold as ice, unchanging through the ages.

 Chapter 884 (1) - Just One Small Problem

    Wan Ji''s seven daughters gathered above the Extreme Yin Star Barrier with the core disciples of the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea.

    Hai Qing and her six sisters stood with gratitude etched on their faces. They sped their hands toward Zu Wei, Meng Huan, the Mu brothers, and others. "We sisters, on behalf of the Harmony Divine Pce, thank you all for extending a helping hand and saving the Extreme Yin Star from peril," Hai Qing said.

    Mu Zixiao smiled warmly. "You tter us. It was just a small effort."

    He nced over at Yun Xiao, his tone turning a bit peculiar. "This time, the Extreme Yin Star escaped disaster mainly because Yun Xiao turned the tide. He shattered the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s alliance and secured our victory. Our appearance was merely adding flowers to the brocade."

    Hai Qing responded, "The Young Dragon Lord was ready to fight to the death. Without your timely aid, there would have been a fierce battle with inevitable casualties. Without you, how could we have frightened them away?"

    She spoke from the heart. She wasn''t denying Yun Xiao''s contribution; she and her sisters had seen it all. But since he was one of their own, and Zu Wei and the others were external helpers, she expressed sincere gratitude.

    "Regardless, in such dire circumstances, you still stood by us. We at the Harmony Divine Pce will remember this kindness," Hai Qing said sincerely.

    The Mu brothers, Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu, could only smile.

    Now that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm had left and Hai Qing had expressed her thanks, she wasn''t quite sure what to do next.She noticed that Zu Wei''s expression was indifferent, with an air that kept strangers at bay. An idea sparked in her mind. Smiling, she introduced, "Senior Sister Zu Wei, this is Feng Yao of our Harmony Divine Pce."

    Turning to Feng Yao, she said, "Yao Yao, this is Senior Sister Zu Wei. She hails from the Ancestral Land and possesses their pinnacle bloodline. The Ancestral Land are the pioneers and founders of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, possessing the highest bloodline. She''s extraordinarily talented, her name renowned throughout the Samsara Gxy..."

    "That''s enough," Zu Wei interrupted before Hai Qing could finish, her tone cool. "Saying these things in front of a 9-Star Boundless Immortal talent is like showing off a small card trick to a grand magician."

    Hai Qing smiled gently. "Senior Sister, you''re too modest. With your talent, you should have no problem bing a Boundless Immortal either."

    As Feng Yao listened, she sized up Zu Wei from head to toe. She wasn''t particrly polite. Noticing that this woman had a somewhat arrogant demeanor¡ªnot the type Yun Xiao liked¡ªshe couldn''t be bothered to take another look.

    The atmosphere grew awkward.

    Seeing this, Hai Qing, hoping to ease the tension, said sincerely, "For your timely rescue, we at the Harmony Divine Pce will remember your kindness. If you ever need our assistance, please don''t hesitate to ask; we will answer any call!"

    "Indeed," Mu Zixiao nodded, smiling at Hai Qing.

    Wan Ji''s daughters were many, but Hai Qing''s gentleness and grace were especially appealing.

    Mu Zixiao acted as the spokesperson for the Ancestral Land. While Zu Wei was too indifferent to say much, he spoke at length.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Hai Qing, the troubles facing the Extreme Yin Star are only temporarily resolved; the dangers ahead remain," Mu Zixiao said, his smile fading, his tone turning grave. ?

    "Yes!" Beneath Hai Qing''s grateful eyes lurked deep anxiety. She said, "This is a crisis for our Harmony Divine Pce. The opponent''s strength is overwhelming. It might bring you great trouble, so regarding the dangers ahead, we..."

    Before Hai Qing could finish, Mu Zixiao interrupted, "Don''t boost others'' morale while diminishing your own. About this matter... let''s speak privately."

    This naturally meant ensuring their conversation remained confidential, preventing too many unrted people from overhearing, and avoiding broadcasting any sensitive information to the Million Starlight Pce.

    "Very well. Please." Hai Qing stepped out of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, her sisters following suit. From the ranks of the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, four people emerged. They were Zu Wei, Meng Huan, Mu Zixiao, and Mu Zhilu.

    Altogether 11 people arrived at another ce where cold tides swept through.

    "Yao Yao, Yun Xiao, youe too," Hai Qing called out, feeling unsure and unwilling to make decisions alone.

    "Mhm," Feng Yao responded coolly and followed. She nced at Yun Xiao but noticed he remained standing, showing no intention of joining them.

    However, since he had the Mortal Dust Devil Seed nted in Feng Yao''s heart, whether he followed or not made little difference.

    "They saved us; why does Yun Xiao seem unhappy? Isn''t everyone supposed to be rejoicing together?" Hai Ying quietly asked her sister.

    "I don''t know..." Hai Qing replied helplessly.

    To them, Mu Zixiao and the others still appeared amicable and proper.

    Including Feng Yao, the 12 of them formed a small group. The three young geniuses¡ªMu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and Meng Huan¡ªwere rtively close to her sisters, while Zu Wei maintained her aloof demeanor, standing aside.

    The ghostly Anima Immortal youth Meng Huan gave Feng Yao a slight smile, but she didn''t even nce his way.

    After this small slight, a shadow flickered in Meng Huan''s deep, ocean-like eyes.

    "Alright, let''s get down to business," Mu Zixiao said. He was tall and handsome like a jade tree swaying in the wind, he was the very image of a perfect, talented celestial youth.

    He was already quite striking, but Yun Xiao was far more so. However, because Yun Xiao was <em>cleansed</em>, beauties habitually excluded him from the category of men, feeling no romantic entanglements with him.

    With Yun Xiao absent, Mu Zixiao appeared even more imposing. His expression grew solemn as he faced Wan Ji''s seven daughters. In a low voice, he said, "In thest Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm overpowered our Ancestral Land and the Elysian Immortal Pce to seize first ce on the Grand Assembly Rankings.

    "Since then, they''ve been arrogant and domineering, waging wars across the Heavenly Deity Ster River, bringing suffering to countless lives. Now they aim to make a grand spectacle, stepping over you to enter the Heavenly Deity Alliance. If we let them defend their title, I''m afraid the Heavenly Deity Ster River will plunge into chaos, with innocent victims multiplying tenfold, even a hundredfold. Therefore, as the founding guardians of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, we have the responsibility to stop them¡ªwe must stop them."

    His gaze was heavy with worry.

    Saying this before Wan Ji''s seven daughters was also a way of baring his heart, especially since the Ancestral Land hadn''t previously taken a stance against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, even supporting stripping the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm of its status in the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    "We understand." Hai Qing felt his sense of mission and quickly nodded.

    Mu Zixiao continued gravely, "But to be honest, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm has five Young Dragon Lords participating, nearly 100 talented Dragon Devil n cultivators, and countless followers from Empyrean Emperor Sects. Relying solely on our Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, it''s truly difficult to prevent them from defending their title!"

    "Indeed..." Hai Qing and her sisters lowered their heads, exchanging anxious nces.

    Just one Young Dragon Lord could gather 500 talents from the Heavenly Deity Ster River. If the other four weren''t scattered on various campaigns, would Yun Xiao have had any chance?

    "Hai Qing!" Mu Zixiao took a deep breath, speaking earnestly to Hai Qing. "To be frank, ttening the Extreme Yin Star is the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s top priority, even above defending their title. Although we helped you repel one Young Dragon Lord this time, we''ve truly angered them. Given the Dragon Devil n''s ways, the remaining Young Dragon Lords will undoubtedly put aside their current tasks, gather all their forces, and first aplish the most important matter!"

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s most crucial task was, of course, to knock the Harmony Divine Pce out of the top ten, leaving them empty-handed!

    They lost when it was 500 against 9? Now that Yun Xiao and the others had provoked them, thousands of their elites could descend!

    Mu Zixiao''s words weighed heavily on the hearts of Hai Qing and her sisters.

    They knew all too well what the Southern Divine Dragon Realm was capable of.

    "This time, though that celestial ve''s actions had miraculous effects, they''ve truly touched the Dragon Devil n''s reverse scale, giving them an excuse to disregard criticism and mobilize their entire army. I estimate that in a few days, the area outside the Extreme Yin Star will be swarming with their forces," Meng Huan added casually, his voice soft.

    "We understand." Hai Qing could only nod helplessly. She continued, "We are aware of the danger posed by the Dragon Devil n... We are extremely grateful for your rescue. You have no obligation to help us, especially if it affects your own missions, so please, return! We are profoundly thankful for what you''ve done."

    "No," Mu Zixiao shook his head. "You''ve misunderstood me. I''m saying that while the Dragon Devil n will indeed be troublesome, our two sects are not weak. We''vee here precisely to assist you in a decisive battle against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 885 (2) - Annihilation or Servitude?

    "Ah..." Hai Qing and her sisters felt a bit overwhelmed. Earlier, their mother and the other two Divas had warned them that the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea didn''t have good intentions; otherwise, they wouldn''t have pushed the Harmony Divine Pce into this situation where they must rank in the top ten.

    But now, did they truly have such audacity?

    "What''s wrong?" Mu Zixiao asked softly.

    Hai Qing bit her lip, her eyes reddening. "I''m just a bit moved."

    Mu Zixiao smiled gently. "As disciples of the Ancestral Land, it''s our duty to uphold the true justice of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Naturally, we can''t shirk this responsibility."

    Hai Qing pulled her sisters close. "On behalf of the Harmony Divine Pce of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, we thank the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea. Thank you all for your righteousness. If we survive this cmity, we will surely repay you someday."

    Mu Zixiao chuckled. "Let''s hope we seed!"

    "Yes! Let''s fight together!" Hai Qing dered.

    "Exactly! With Yun Xiao bringing so many Personal Pledges, and the foundations of your two sects, we can confront that damn Dragon Devil n head-on!" Hai Ying clenched her delicate fists, her blood stirring.At the mention of Yun Xiao, Mu Zixiao''s brows twitched slightly. While Hai Qing and her sisters were delighted, he nced at the seemingly impatient Zu Wei. His expression turned serious again. Stepping closer to Hai Qing, he said softly, "It''s certain that our two sects will rally forces and stand shoulder to shoulder with the Harmony Divine Pce. But there''s a small issue we need to discuss."

    "Please go ahead," Hai Qing said quickly.

    Her sisters fell silent, waiting for Mu Zixiao to continue.

    "Here''s the situation," Mu Zixiao said with a hint of frustration, "The Southern Divine Dragon Realm has spent a massive sum¡ªreportedly 7,000,000,000 Supreme Immortal Jades¡ªto shape public opinion. Throughout the Samsara Gxy, they''ve widely spread usations against you.

    "To be honest, within the Samsara Gxy, aside from the Heavenly Deity Ster River, the other celestial sects of the Ster River don''t know much about you. Their investment has indeed paid off. Now, across the entire gxy, the Harmony Divine Pce has been portrayed as the public enemy of all men, stirring widespread outrage...

    "Our Ancestral Land was also under immense pressure from this overwhelming public opinion and reluctantly agreed to strip your Harmony Divine Pce''s membership from the Heavenly Deity Alliance."

    These details were unknown to Hai Qing and her sisters, secluded as they were. Hearing it for the first time, their faces paled, feeling the crushing weight of being spurned by the entire world.

    "This is too much..." they murmured, shaking their heads helplessly.

    "This world is like that," Mu Zixiao sighed. "The powerful can wash away their sins with money, while the mistakes of the weak are magnified countless times by the same wealth. To be fair, the fault of your celestial ves is nothingpared to the atrocities of the Southern Divine Dragon''s conquests. Yet, as things stand, the Southern Divine Dragon enjoys a ster reputation across other ster rivers."

    "Why are you beating around the bush so much? What''s the ''small issue'' you mentioned earlier? Just get straight to the point," came Feng Yao''s enchanting, irresistible voice, suddenly breaking the heavy atmosphere and instantly dissolving the tension.

    The emotional buildup Mu Zixiao had painstakingly crafted dissipated in an instant. He couldn''t afford to show anger toward Feng Yao, so he awkwardly tried to regroup.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Brother Mu?" Hai Qing looked at him.

    Mu Zixiao took a deep breath, gritting his teeth. "Sister Qing, given the situation I''ve described, our two sects standing alongside you in battle means we''ll have to bear immense public pressure. One misstep, and the Southern Divine Dragon will smear us." ??

    "Oh." Hai Qing''s eyes showed a hint of difficulty. "Then perhaps we should handle this ourselves..."

    Mu Zixiao shook his head. "You''ve misunderstood me again."

    "Then what exactly do you mean?" Feng Yao, impatient by nature, couldn''t stand this emotional hemming and hawing.

    Pressed repeatedly, Mu Zixiao had no choice but to steady himself. Looking at Feng Yao and Hai Qing, he said, "Just as Zu Wei said at the beginning, we''re not here to save you; we''re interested in the Extreme Yin Star... Please don''t be anxious. Can you infer what I''m implying?"

    Hai Qing, sharp as ever, softly asked, "You mean fighting side by side won''t work, but if we change our rtionship to superior and subordinate¡ªyou as the suzerain, and us as the vassal state¡ªthen the Southern Divine Dragon Realm would have no grounds forint?"

    Mu Zixiao nodded gently but spoke warmly, "You''re overstating it. The so-called hierarchy is just for outsiders. Between us, we know we''re friends and allies. This way, we can avoid a lot of unnecessary nder. It will also make it easier to exin to our sect''s other disciples, elders, and some allied sects."

    After speaking, Mu Zixiao nced at the disciples who hade with them. "If we don''t do this, it''ll be hard for us to gather personnel from other sects. Facing the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, who is adept at forming alliances, we''d be at a disadvantage."

    Those disciples looked proud and aloof, clearly unwilling to associate with the Harmony Divine Pce. That was unless the Harmony Divine Pce became captives of the Ancestral Land.

    After all, captives don''t have to worry about their origins...

 Chapter 886: Offering His Head On a Chopping Block!

    Mu Zixiao saw them lost in thought and continued, "This matter doesn''t hinder your Harmony Divine Pce from entering the top ten of the Grand Assembly Arena. It also gives legitimacy to our two sects. Once the Extreme Yin Parent g is entrusted to Zu Wei, the alliance among our three parties will only grow stronger. Then we can fight for ourmon mission without any worries!"

    His younger brother, Mu Zhilu, added softly, "We resorted to thisst measure out of necessity. Please understand, our sects are at a real disadvantage when facing the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, who excels at manipting public opinion."

    Meng Huan spoke up, "I can understand the Ancestral Land too. Their foundation is the strongest, with so many honored sages¡ªthey can''t tolerate any stain on their reputation. Besides, there might be another benefit..."

    He nced at Yun Xiao and continued quietly, "Those captives that that celestial ve recruited may not listen to him. But if Zu Wei gives him orders, and he passes them on¡­ it might just work. Those people still hold enough respect for the Ancestral Land and Zu Wei. They''ll be able to exin to their own elders, and naturally, they''ll work harder."

    "I see, I understand..." Hai Qing murmured, lowering her head, clearly troubled.

    She looked at her sisters, who were just as uncertain as she was.

    "Handing over the Extreme Yin Parent g to Zu Wei doesn''t stop us from expanding. It''s just that the territories we gain will ultimately add to the Ancestral Land''s influence..."

    "And we''ll have to follow Zu Wei''s arrangements."

    "But that''s not such a big deal. After all, Mu Zixiao is right. If we don''t do this, they really can''t exin themselves to the outside world.""Just now, they already saved us once. Facing the entire Southern Divine Dragon Realm next, we can only rely on them..."

    "Mother and the others said we''re too friendless in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, and now someone is willing..."

    As they whispered among themselves, they leaned more and more toward agreement. No matter how they looked at it, the proposal made sense.

    Otherwise, why would they help us once and then fight to the death alongside the Harmony Divine Pce?

    They must be taking huge risks too!

    "Most importantly, once we defeat the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, it''ll be a win-win for both sides. The Ancestral Land has a chance to reim first ce, and we can keep our seat in the Heavenly Deity Alliance," Hai Qing said, her voice trembling.

    And if they lost these two allies, could they really rely on just 250 captives to face the wrath of the entire Dragon Devil n?

    Hai Qing''sst words made her sisters waver. In their hearts, they had already agreed.

    However, Hai Qing had a virtue; she knew that even though she was speaking, she wasn''t the one making decisions here.

    So, she turned to look at Feng Yao. Though she didn''t speak, her eyes held a questioning look.

    Feng Yao pouted, not pretending to have any ideas of her own, and looked directly at Yun Xiao.

    The atmosphere grew suddenly still.

    Mu Zixiao noticed these subtle details, and his expression shifted slightly.

    Yet he remained confident, standing tall with a calm demeanor.

    "No."

    In the next instant, Yun Xiao, standing at a distance, uttered this decisive word, nearly causing Mu Zixiao''s insides to twist.

    Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and Meng Huan frowned instantly.

    The aloof Zu Wei raised an eyebrow, gazing at the solitary, white-robed celestial ve in the distance.

    "Why not? Give us a reason!" Feng Yao pressed, ever the straightforward one.

    Yun Xiao looked up at Zu Wei and said with a grin, "Our Harmony Divine Pce aims to be number one on the Grand Assembly Rankings. If we hand over the Parent g to you, what''s the point?" ??

    To be honest, when those words left his mouth, Mu Zixiao felt an urge to spit out his drink. He, his brother, and Meng Huan all thought they had misheard.

    Zu Wei''s formerly cool expression turned icy, even hinting at a murderous edge¡ªa sign of extreme impatience.

    "Yun Xiao..." Hai Qing and her sisters stood stunned, caught between both sides. They felt dizzy, their throats tight, unable to utter a single word.

    The Harmony Divine Pce wanted to be number one on the Grand Assembly Rankings? They themselves hadn''t even dared to dream such an audacious ambition.

    As Wan Ji''s seven daughters found themselves speechless, the confrontation became a direct face-off between Zu Wei and Yun Xiao.

    Indeed, Zu Wei bypassed Mu Zixiao, and Yun Xiao bypassed Hai Qing. Their gazes met like four sharp swords shing, sparks flying.

    Zu Wei arched a cold brow and said indifferently, "Even daydreams have their limits. Stop joking around; seeking attention is childish."

    "I''m not joking. As long as I''m here, unless you kill all seven of them, don''t even think about touching the Extreme Yin Parent g." Yun Xiao stood within the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, his eyes zing, exuding overwhelming force.

    "You spineless eunuch, who do you think you are..." Before Zu Wei could react, Meng Huan from the Nine Yin Soul Sea couldn''t hold back and cursed.

    Before he could finish, Yun Xiao cut him off. "Stop barking. If you''ve got the guts,e face me one-on-one."

    "Enough!" Zu Wei snapped, her sharp voice stinging everyone''s ears.

    Behind Yun Xiao, the 250 geniuses¡ªBai Lu, Gusu Yan, Ah Jiao, the Bloodvine Young Master, and others¡ªnever expected such a sh between the two sides. Their eyes lit up, watching with keen interest.

    The followers brought by Zu Wei, like Mu Zixiao and the others, despised the ws of the celestial ve. Even after witnessing the great humiliation Yun Xiao had inflicted on the Young Dragon Lord, they still harbored deep-seated prejudice.

    They were furious.

    "This kid is really getting carried away."

    "Who does he think he is? A lowly ve, acting out in front of the Sea Lineage Diva''s daughters!"

    "Does he really think Bai Lu and the others will fight to the death for him because of some Personal Pledges?"

    "A base ve overstepping his bounds¡ªthe Harmony Divine Pce trulycks discipline and order."

    At that moment, the disciples following Zu Wei sneered and whispered among themselves. From the Million Starlight Pce, seeing the evident sh, others could guess the details.

    Zu Wei stood lofty and cold, her gaze fixed on Yun Xiao.

    As their eyes locked, Zu Wei realized she couldn''t rely solely on her aura to make this celestial ve bow to her.

    She truly didn''t understand. Turning to Feng Yao, she asked icily, "You''re a peerless Boundless Immortal talent. Why let a celestial ve make decisions that concern your sect''s survival?"

    Feng Yao had been waiting for this. She quickly feigned innocence and replied, "Didn''t you notice? It''s actually my decision; I just let him speak for me."

    Zu Wei was momentarily speechless. She wanted to curse, "Are you out of your mind?"

    "Hai Qing!" Mu Zixiao, seeing the situation, took a deep breath and sought another approach. He said gravely, "This minor issue is just a mutually beneficial arrangement. We didn''t expect Yun Xiao to be so sensitive. You know how hard it is for the Harmony Divine Pce to reach first ce on the Grand Assembly Rankings; it''s just an excuse of his. I know how important he is to you. If there''s a misunderstanding, please exin it to him."

    "Mu Zixiao..." Hai Qing struggled internally but didn''t hesitate for long. She bowed deeply to Mu Zixiao, biting her lip. "I''m truly sorry about this matter. Again, thank you all for rescuing us earlier. But regarding the Extreme Yin Parent g, our mother said that matters in the Grand Assembly Arena are entirely decided by Yao Yao. My apologies..."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yes, I''m indeed in charge. Everyone here should be able to see that," Feng Yao added.

    "Hai Qing!" Mu Zixiao didn''t have time to be speechless at Feng Yao; he was growing anxious.

    Just as he was about to speak, Zu Wei sneered, "Fine then. Stop pretending in front of me. With your status, if you truly thought this boy was being outrageous, you''d at least put up some resistance. Since you don''t, stop acting innocent. From now on, the Extreme Yin Star will be left to your own devices. Our Ancestral Land has done all it can! Let''s go!"

    With those words, the rift wasplete.

    "Heh, the fox''s tail is showing, huh? Isn''t it that you''ve got your eyes on my Lil Yun''s Personal Pledges and want us to be cannon fodder against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm? Hah!" Feng Yao shrugged and sneered.

    Only now did Zu Wei realize that this Yin Devil woman wasn''t foolish at all. With one sentence, she''d exposed Zu Wei''s true intentions.

    Little did she know, those words were fed to the War Princess by Yun Xiao through the Mortal Dust Devil Seed.

    "Just you wait." Zu Wei gave Feng Yao a deep look, the murderous intent in her eyes erupting like an undersea volcano breaking the surface.

    As Zu Wei turned to leave, Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and the other followers all wore grim expressions, departing with gloomy smirks.

    However, one person remained. With a cold demeanor, he said, "Everyone, please wait a moment!"

    Zu Wei and the others turned back to see that it was the brooding genius of the Nine Yin Soul Sea, Meng Huan.

    He gazed hauntingly at Yun Xiao and said, "You just said, ¡®If you''ve got the guts, let''s duel one-on-one.¡¯ Does that offer still stand?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 887: How About a Bet?

    When Yun Xiao refused to hand over the Parent g, Zu Wei and Meng Huan flew into a rage, exposing their true motives.

    They pretended to extend an olive branch to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, but their aim was not salvation¡ªit was to squeeze thest ounce of value from the Harmony Divine Pce.

    The young and hot-blooded couldn''t control their emotions, igniting at the slightest provocation. Little did they know that their anger only allowed the elders of the Harmony Divine Pce to see more clearly the true faces of those behind them.

    Mu Zixiao had just spoken with such righteousness and propriety that Hai Qing and her sisters were moved, almost believing him.

    But now, when Meng Huan could no longer suppress his fury and publicly challenged Yun Xiao, Hai Qing and the others saw through their hypocritical facades.

    The Dragon Devil n were at least straightforward scoundrels, but these sanctimonious hypocrites before them were even more disgusting.

    "Yun Xiao, don''t agree to it! With the Extreme Yin Star Barrier at our backs, we don''t need to fear them!" Hai Qing eximed.

    She knew that when the enemy opened their greedy mouths, pleading was useless for fish on the chopping block. Already weak and isted, they couldn''t expose their shorings and avoid their strengths by dueling Meng Huan.

    Instinctively, she grabbed Yun Xiao''s arm, nervously shaking her head at him, her eyes filled with pleading.Although she had been polite to Mu Zixiao and his group, this scene clearly showed that the seven sisters knew who truly protected them and who they should care about.

    "Hai Qing, I didn''t mean to target him," Meng Huan said calmly. "It''s just that the path of immortality is like this. Since he''s dared to provoke me, he should have no qualms epting my challenge."

    Afterwards, the 100 followers behind him chuckled quietly.

    They raised their eyebrows and lifted their chins, looking at Yun Xiao with contempt, trying to provoke him into losing hisposure.

    As an Anima Immortal, Meng Huan was the most lethal of the four great types of Immortals, his fame widespread.

    They all knew how strong Meng Huan was. Though he was also at the Perfect stage of the Fourth Baptism Realm, his record included ying those in the Establishment stage of the Fourth Baptism Realm. His soul-based attacks even made many elders in the Fifth Baptism Realm wary.

    To provoke an equal-level Anima Immortal was tantamount to suicide¡ªthat was an iron rule in the Samsara Gxy.

    Yun Xiao, relying on the Extreme Yin Star Barrier and Personal Pledges, was arrogant and overbearing. Would he fall into the trap?

    As long as Yun Xiao was defeated, Zu Wei still had hope of seizing the Extreme Yin Parent g.

    For a moment, all eyes turned toward Yun Xiao.

    Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, Jiang Dongcheng, the Bloodvine Young Master, and others watched the unfolding drama up close.

    "One-on-one?" Yun Xiao remained as calm as ever. While everyone on the opposing side tried to provoke him with scorn and disdain, he gently released Hai Qing''s hand. With a casual tone, he shook his head and chuckled. "Alright then, I''ll give you a chance to throw your life away."

    At his words, hundreds stirred, and it seemed even the atmosphere of the Extreme Yin Star became heated.

    On Zu Wei''s side, the 100 followers didn''t wear triumphant smiles. Instead, Yun Xiao''s demeanor ignited a fire within them. They could only sneer. They used their coldughter to pressure Yun Xiao and Wan Ji''s daughters.

    "You''re fighting already? Why not ask my opinion?" In the deathly silence, Feng Yao suddenly chimed in.

    "Go y somewhere else," Yun Xiao said.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Oh, okay!" Feng Yao replied.

    "..." The onlookers fell speechless at the casual banter. The murderous atmosphere grew even more intense.

    Meng Huan turned his head to look at Zu Wei in her ck and white dress. He softly asked, "May I kill him?"

    Zu Wei pursed her lips. "If you kill him, the Personal Pledges will be nullified. Aren''t you skilled at controlling souls?"

    "I am," Meng Huan shrugged indifferently. "It''s just that having this lowlife not die immediately is a bit disgusting."

    "Bear with it. There are many flies in the world; you can''t swat every one."

    Zu Wei folded her arms, looking down from above. She cast a cold nce at Yun Xiao through her upturned nose. "Besides, those two are just the dying embers of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. The more he stands out here, the more people will want him dead. Are you afraid he''ll live long? Even mayflies have more of a future than he does."

    "True enough." Meng Huan shrugged and chuckled softly, feeling at ease.

    "Go Meng Huan!"

    Behind him, disciples of the Nine Yin Soul Sea, other followers, and some Ancestral Land disciples all shouted, boosting his momentum sky-high.

    In contrast, on the Extreme Yin Star''s side, the atmosphere was cold and strange.

    "He really agreed?" The beautiful woman in the white dress, Bai Lu, was a bit taken aback.

    "He defeated you, right?" Gusu Yan whispered beside her.

    "Yes, he''s quite strong." Bai Lu pursed her lips. "But he''s supposed to be an Inscription Immortal. So, he might not understand how terrifying an Anima Immortal is. As far as I know, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm hardly has any Anima Immortals."

    "That''s quite good," the Bloodvine Young Master mused thoughtfully.

    "What do you mean?" Ah Jiao''s eyes sparkled.

    "I see the other side is getting furious. If the confrontation esctes, that celestial ve might get killed. If he dies, our Personal Pledges return, and we''ll be free," the Bloodvine Young Master said coldly.

    "What are you talking about?" Bai Ao felt a surge of displeasure upon hearing this. Clenching his teeth, he said, "Yun Xiao just helped me vent a huge frustration. I don''t want him to die. He''s got style; I think he''ll definitely win!"

    "Shut up, you." Bai Lu rolled her eyes at the hotheaded youth.

    "No, I really think he''ll win!" Bai Ao insisted earnestly.

    Gusu Yan chuckled. "Lil Ao, you need to understand that the interests of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm aren''t our interests. What we need now is to get back our Personal Pledges and return to apologize to the Young Dragon Lord."

    "I know, but you can''t deny that this sissy named Meng Huan is going to get a good thrashing," Bai Ao dered confidently.

    "You..."

    The older disciples from the Empyrean Emperor Sect looked at the youth, exasperation evident in their eyes.

    "You just don''t believe in him, do you? To put it bluntly, your backsides are telling your brains what to think¡ªyou''re not being objective," said Bai Ao with a snort.

    "If you''re so objective, why don''t you go and make that celestial ve your boss? Be careful, or the Harmony Divine Pce might castrate you too," said Bai Lu as she red at him.

    "To hell with that! Are you nuts, sis?" Bai Ao eximed in shock.

    "Did you just talk back to me?" Bai Lu''s eyes shed with anger as she stared at her brother.

    "No, no, I said nothing..." Bai Ao gritted his teeth, still unconvinced. Being naturally argumentative, he wouldn''t bow to Shen Nanyin. This stubborn fellow nced at Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the others. "Why don''t we make a bet!"

    Gusu Yan first tried to calm Bai Lu down. Since he wanted to be her husband, he naturally needed to please his future brother-inw. He smiled and asked, "Lil Ao, how do you want to bet?"

    "Let''s bet on the oue of their fight!" Bai Ao said, his tone both frustrated and determined.

    "You''re betting on that ve to win?" Gusu Yan inquired.

    "Of course!" Bai Ao affirmed decisively. "My judgment is unbeatable."

    "If you win, what do you want?" Gusu Yan asked.

    "You tell me first! If Meng Huan wins, what do you want?" At this point, Bai Ao felt a bit unsure and grew cautious.

    "I have only one request; after the battle, you shut your mouth and don''t say another word!" Bai Lu stated sternly.

    "Fine¡­!" Bai Ao gritted his teeth and agreed, stubbornly holding his ground.

    "Then what do you want?" Gusu Yan asked helplessly.

    Bai Ao was still pondering when suddenly Yun Xiao turned around ahead of them and said, "If I win, will you willingly submit to me?"

 Chapter 888: Nine Yin Dreamscape!

    Bai Lu hadn''t expected that while she was reprimanding her younger brother, Yun Xiao would butt in again.

    Feeling a bit annoyed, she was surprised when Bai Ao pped his hands and said, "Great! These people all look down on you¡ªyou should prove them wrong!"

    "Lil Ao!" Bai Lu was absolutely furious. What kind of fool was he?

    "What, afraid to bet?" With Yun Xiao backing him, Bai Ao''s courage grew.

    Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, the Bloodvine Young Master and others looked at Yun Xiao with calm indifference.

    Gusu Yan suddenly said, "Bound by the pledge, it''s hard for us to break away. But the pledge alone doesn''t fully distance us. Adding a wager gives us another angle."

    "You really think he can win? That''s an Anima Immortal," Bai Lu said seriously.

    "Not really." Gusu Yan nced helplessly at Bai Ao. "If he loses, Lil Ao will behave. If he wins, we''ll have another excuse. We don''t lose either way, do we?"

    At these words, these young leaders of various Empyrean Emperor Sects fell silent.They exchanged nces.

    Bai Lu understood Gusu Yan''s logic. Without looking at Bai Ao, she said directly to Yun Xiao, "Fine, we''ll bet with you! If you can win, we''ll be impressed!"

    "Deal," Yun Xiao smiled.

    Aside from Bai Lu, none had seen Yun Xiao in action; they only knew he was good at running.

    Of course, his encounter with the Young Dragon Consort was a different matter¡ªnot worth counting.

    Now that the wager was set, these 250 pledge-makers seemed more involved; their gazes turned scrutinizing.

    These looks weren''t swords, but they felt like a mountain pressing against his back.

    In front of him, the gazes of the disciples from the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea were the real sharp des!

    All were mocking and harboring hatred toward Yun Xiao.

    Swords ahead, mountains behind!

    In between were the caring and worried eyes of Feng Yao and Wan Ji''s seven daughters¡ªthe only warmth he felt.

    Of course, Yun Xiao knew that the Three Divas were watching him.

    Every decision he made resonated in their hearts.

    Even more eyes were on him in the Million Starlight Pce!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Back in the MIllion Starlight Pce, the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea had reced the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, bing the main opponents against the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    This was something the spectators could never have imagined.

    Who would''ve thought that two harmonious sides would turn against each other like this?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    At the very least, those chiefly responsible¡ªEmpyrean Emperor Mu and the Great Dream Lord¡ªboth looked displeased.

    Whispers swirled all around; among the powerhouses of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, who didn''t know the intentions of those two sects?

    The younger generation had acted too hastily, exposing everything. To be honest, it was quite embarrassing.

    If not for Yun Xiao, this would have been a perfect alliance. The Ancestral Land could have seized the Extreme Yin Star and then shielded it against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªwho could have objected?

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, representing the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, remained the focal point.

    She exchanged a distant nce with the Great Dream Lord.

    "Hypocrites are more disgusting than true viins," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen thought. She suddenly let out a softugh and said calmly, "These youngsters are truly immature."

    Empyrean Emperor Mu seized the opportunity and smiled warmly. "Indeed, it was meant to be a good thing. We shouldn''t have drawn swords against each other."

    "No, I meant your children are the ones being immature," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen replied.

    Empyrean Emperor Mu paused, momentarily taken aback.

    "No need to say more." The Great Dream Lord cast a cold nce at the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen. "She knows in her heart that when the Harmony Divine Pce falls off a cliff, no one will save them. The more she speaks, the more it reveals her inner despair."

    "Truly pathetic," Empyrean Emperor Mu shrugged.

    In his eyes, whether it was the Three Divas, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen herself, or the entire Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, they were loners in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Such forces didn''t cultivate rtionships; once they copsed with no benefits to offer, who would reallye to their aid?

    Now, the impulsiveness of the younger generation only made them see reality more clearly.

    There was nothing more to say.

    "That celestial ve has some tricks up his sleeve. Is your son prepared...?" Empyrean Emperor Mu asked the Great Dream Lord.

    The Great Dream Lord cut in immediately, "I''ve left him a few trump cards."

    "Then we''ll have a good show to watch," Empyrean Emperor Mu chuckled.

    The Great Dream Lord smiled without another word.

    In the Million Starlight Pce, countless eyes were once again fixed on Yun Xiao!

    The storm of gazes gathering upon him grew everrger.

    Every moment brought new drama centered around him.

    This made quite a few people weary of watching.

    "When will this celestial ve stop showing off?"

    "Probably soon. He''s hit a wall with the Nine Yin Soul Sea. That force within the Heavenly Deity Alliance is known as the king of counterattacks, often pulling off unexpected reversals."

    "Anima Immortals are truly monstrous!"

    "Quiet, it''s about to start...!"

    For a moment, the crowd held its breath.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Outside the Extreme Yin Star, the 250 pledge-makers retreated into the Extreme Yin Star Barrier.

    Feng Yao and Wan Ji''s seven daughters stood atop the barrier at the closest point to the battlefield. Feng Yao set up her Heaven Devourer Bow, ready to shoot anyone who dared to cause trouble.

    On the other side, Zu Wei led over 100 followers, coldly stepping back, leaving only Meng Huan alone on the battlefield!

    And so, that ethereal and iparably handsome young man in white stood facing him eye to eye.

    Countless people couldn''t help but exim, "That eunuch is truly handsome!"

    This remark was both an insult and apliment.

    Yun Xiao didn''t care about any of this. Whether he was a celestial ve or not, once he revealed his true abilities, everything would be settled. Why the rush? Plus, if the truth really were revealed, the Snow Lineage Diva might just have a mental breakdown.

    "Such a lowly bastard¡ªI''ve never seen one like you in my life," Meng Huan said, his cold eyes fixed on this ethereal-looking man. Perhaps a bit jealous, he felt the need to belittle him.

    "Finished talking?" Yun Xiao hovered in the starry sky, calmly looking at his opponent. "If you''re done, make your move."

    "Why should I strike first?" Meng Huan sneered.

    "Because I need to see what I''m dealing with," Yun Xiao replied.

    Meng Huan was silent for a moment. "What a damn fool!"

    He could no longer bear it! Above his head, the soul power of spirit vibrated. After nine vibrations, a horrifying scene unfolded.

    Nine spirits manifested around him! Indeed, there were nine together!

    Each manifested spirit was a white faceless figure, d in white robes, emitting white smoke. Their bodies twisted and changed unpredictably, like nine humanoid white clouds.

    Those faceless visages were utterly eerie and terrifying.

    "Great Dream Yin Spirit!"

    "It''s truly the unmatched Nine Souls Talent of the ages!"

    "Meng Huan is indeed the rare genius of the Nine Yin Soul Sea. With the Nine Souls manifesting, he has a real chance to be a Boundless Immortal!"

    "Even if he doesn''t reach boundlessnes, his Anima Immortal talent ranks among the highest in the entire Samsara Gxy! His ability to y opponents beyond his level is absolutely defying the heavens."

    In terms of cultivation level, Meng Huan, being young, wasn''t yet the top in the Grand Assembly Arena. But in terms of talent, he was among the elite.

    His true stage to shine would be 10 or 20 years from now; this was just a stunning debut.

    Even so, the young prodigy burst onto the scene, making elders from other sects envious.

    The Great Dream Lord basked in the praises, a yful smile on her face.

    Meng Huan was radiant with glory. This was truly a dreamlike life. He didn''t keep the audience waiting.

    Standing among the nine Great Dream Yin Spirits, his eyes¡ªdark and stormy like the depths of the sea¡ªlocked onto Yun Xiao.

    "Be my dog..." He sneered.

    Under hismand, the eerie and chilling Great Dream Yin Spirits moved in the Nine Pces Formation, closing in on Yun Xiao from all directions.

    In an instant, heaven and earth transformed.

    "Nine Yin Dreamscape!"

    A gasp rose from the crowd, fear struck by Meng Huan''s technique.

    The Great Dream Yin Spirits encircled Yun Xiao, weaving an illusionary realm together.

    A dream descended upon him.

    Before Yun Xiao''s eyes, the vast Grand Assembly Arena morphed into an infernal abyss. Ghostly wails and howls echoed around him; countless vengeful souls shrieked, surging toward him like a tsunami. A deadly nightmare.

    Among those spirits, a pair of extremely sinister eyes appeared, magnified a thousandfold, gazing down upon Yun Xiao with mockery and indifference.

    In that moment, Yun Xiao was swallowed by the Nine Yin Dreamscape, as if his breath had ceased; he seemed lost in the nightmare, his soul adrift.

    "This is the terror of an Anima Immortal¡ªsomething a lowly bastard like you can''tprehend," Meng Huanughed.

    But then, a voice like a great bell echoed in his ears.

    "In front of my Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, you dare call yourself an Anima Immortal?"

    Meng Huan was stunned, a chill running down his spine. He looked up to see the world around him filled with endless golden light. The infernal abyss and evil spirits evaporated, dying with wretched screams.

    He stood upon an iparably massive gold-and-ck lotus, rotating slowly. Each petal was engraved densely with colossal patterns of dragons and elephants. The golden light emanating from these patterns incinerated everything, causing Meng Huan''s magnified eyes to sting; tears and blood gushed forth.

    "You are truly an Anima Immortal..." Meng Huan''s heart trembled wildly.

    Above the heavens, a pair of golden eyes¡ªtens of thousands of timesrger than ordinary eyes¡ªgazed down upon him.

    "Your move isn''t bad; it''s mine now," Yun Xiao said, golden lotuses blooming within his pupils.

    "What!? Impossible!" Meng Huan''s heart trembled.

    He was pulled into Yun Xiao''s Nine Yin Dreamscape by the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, screaming in heart-wrenching agony, struggling, suffering, and despairing.

    "No, no!" Only Meng Huan and Yun Xiao knew how miserable, desperate, regretful, and terrified he was.

    Time in the Nine Yin Dreamscape flowed differently; perhaps only a moment passed outside, but he might have wept and suffered for ten years within.

    From the outside, this Anima Immortal duel seemed almost simplistic. First, Meng Huan manifested nine spirits, forming a domain that enveloped Yun Xiao.

    Then, Yun Xiao countered with his own spirit, casting a simr golden domain over Meng Huan. The two were slightly different, but the principle seemed the same.

    In the next instant, Meng Huan''s whole body trembled, emitting a heartrending scream condensed from ten years of agony. Anyone who heard that sound felt their skin crawl, not knowing what horrors he had endured.

    With that scream, the golden light dissipated. In the starry sky, Meng Huan''s eyes were ashen, his face bearing endless fear and nightmares; like a lifeless husk, he died on the spot. Only his mother could truly understand how tragically he had perished.

    This was the Nine Yin Dreamscape!

    At that moment, the entire world stood still; no one could even blink. Everything had happened so quickly.

    In the frozen world, the young man in white stepped forward, grabbed Meng Huan''s neck, and brought his hollow eyes up to his own.

    "Your Nine Souls Seed of Creation isn''t bad," Yun Xiao said calmly. "It''s mine now."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 889: Dog Eat Dog!

    As Meng Huan''s spirit was utterly annihted, a soul-shaking sound erupted from the heart of the Million Starlight Pce.

    A figure suddenly rose. Centered around her, a storm of souls burst forth, sweeping many into its frenzy¡ªtheir minds buzzing.

    It was the Great Dream Lord of the Nine Yin Soul Sea.

    She trembled, blood seeping from her eyes. Her face contorted as she fixed an unyielding gaze on the luminous screen, murderous soul energy surging from her body.

    Even her lips were bitten through.

    Behind her stood the powerful Heavenly Monarchs of the Nine Yin Soul Sea, faces flushed, breaths heavy, seething with rage.

    "Meng Huan is dead!"

    Moments ago, they wereughing and chatting. Now, it was as if their very souls were being torn apart, hearts sliced by unseen des.

    The Nine Souls Talent! It was the most famed gift of the Nine Yin Soul Sea, destined to ascend to the Eighth Baptism Realm, perhaps even surpassing his mother to be a Boundless Immortal.And now, Meng Huan was snuffed out without warning.

    They had even watched as the white-robed youth brazenly desecrated the corpse, ensuring Meng Huan was dead beyond doubt.

    "Ah..."

    It felt like sudden ruin befalling the immensely wealthy¡ªfirst disbelief, then searing pain, followed by anger erupting like volcanic magma.

    Such a loss, crippling the Nine Yin Soul Sea''s foundation for a millennium¡ªwho could remain calm?

    The Three Divas of the Harmony Divine Pce had personally stayed in the Grand Assembly Arena to protect Feng Yao, knowing someone would mercilessly target her.

    But other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance saw no need. Even the disciples of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm wouldn''t dare recklessly kill Meng Huan now.

    That would forge a blood feud with the Nine Yin Soul Sea.

    So, elders from the Heavenly Deity Alliance generally stayed out; overprotecting the young wouldn''t aid their growth and would invite scorn.

    Besides, how swift and fierce was Yun Xiao''s killing?

    The Great Dream Lord had armed her son with numerous life-saving treasures, yet none were used...

    Now, the Harmony Divine Pce and Nine Yin Soul Sea¡ªonce potential allies against amon foe¡ªhad be mortal enemies.

    "Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen!" The Great Dream Lord had only one person to confront here.

    She and over 100 fierce cultivators from the Nine Yin Soul Sea turned their solemn, bloodthirsty gazes upon the solitary Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    "A disciple of your Harmony Divine Pce has in my son Meng Huan. Do you admit it?" The Great Dream Lord''s voice was both wretched and ferocious. She had descended into madness, a stark contrast to her earlierposed demeanor. ?

    To be honest, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen hadn''t fully grasped the situation herself. She had thought it was merely a friendly duel.

    Under the Great Dream Lord''s pressing question, her mind went nk. She forced herself to calm down and, amidst the shock, pieced together what had happened.

    She bowed her head and said apologetically, "I admit it. Young people act impulsively without considering the consequences. We failed in our guidance. We are truly sorry."

    By now, she understood that the situation was deteriorating rapidly. Even if she knelt down, it wouldn''t change anything.

    "As long as you admit it!" The Great Dream Lord''s voice was icy cold. "After the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects concludes, hand over that ve to my Nine Yin Soul Sea. Then we can settle this grudge lightly."

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was taken aback. She pressed her lips together, took a deep breath, and finally lifted her head. In a steady voice, she said, "Great Dream Lord, in thepetitions of the Grand Assembly Arena, casualties aremon. Yun Xiao defeated Meng Huan fair and square, without any deceit. ording to the rules of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, we have no obligation to hand him over to you. Please understand."

    Her resolute words stirred up waves in the Million Starlight Pce.

    Everyone knew that the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects had no such rule as the Great Dream Lord imed. But the point was, she was offering the Harmony Divine Pce a way out.

    Even if the gesture was small, in their current blood feud, it could ease tensions slightly by cing all the me on Yun Xiao alone.

    But the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was adamant about protecting Yun Xiao?

    The nearby powerhouses of the Heavenly Deity Ster River understood what this meant.

    Sure enough, the cultivators from the Nine Yin Soul Seaughed upon hearing her words.

    The Great Dream Lord swallowed deeply, then sneered as well. Her expression was a blend of deep sorrow and extreme malice. In a hoarse voice filled with venom, she said, "Very well then, we''ll see how this ys out. I can only say that those who court their own destruction truly deserve their fate."

    With that, she and the other cultivators of the Nine Yin Soul Sea returned to their seats, the fury and hatred in their eyes undiminished.

    Seeing this, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen could only sigh. Having long served in the Joint Law Enforcement Division of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, she knew better than anyone the hardships faced by the Harmony Divine Pce.

    The Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea clearly wanted to squeeze more value out of the Harmony Divine Pce; that''s why they extended an olive branch.

    How could the Harmony Divine Pce refuse? Declining would also be tactless. But who would have thought Yun Xiao would snap the olive branch outright?

    Now, the other side was furious, turning from allies to enemies.

    It seemed Yun Xiao had caused trouble, but in truth, he helped the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen vent her resentment.

    She truly despised these hypocrites. They kicked others when they were down, yet expected the Harmony Divine Pce to thank them.

    This was the dead end for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    Yun Xiao merely brought this situation to light.

    Within the Heavenly Deity Alliance, no sect cared about the survival of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Watching the conflict between the Great Dream Lord and Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, many were amused as the masks were torn off.

    For instance, the Golden Dragon Emperor and Gong Tianjian were delighted by this development. These two became spectators, smiling as they watched the scene unfold.

    "Dog eat dog. That little eunuch''s kill did us a big favor," the Golden Dragon Emperor said cheerfully.

    After this, the embarrassment of his daughter-inw being humiliated finally dissipated.

    Time to turn the page!

    "Indeed," Gong Tianjian sneered. "We feared they might truly form an alliance, but didn''t expect them to tear into each other first. Now, there''s no one to stop the fall of the Harmony Divine Pce."

    The Golden Dragon Emperor cast a cold nce at the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen. "Still trying to protect that celestial ve at this point? Truly courting death. If the Nine Yin Soul Sea doesn''t destroy that ve, they can''t save face."

    This situation was perfect for them.

    "If the Great Dream Lord could drag the Ancestral Land into this, that would be even better," Gong Tianjian suddenly remarked.

    "Three dogs not forming an alliance but biting each other¡ªthat''s the ideal scenario," the Golden Dragon Emperor said, frowning as he looked at Empyrean Emperor Mu. "The only concern is that I heard they have a disciple who was sent to a Category 4 celestial realm; they might have a new backer."

    "With the barrierws protecting us, what''s there to fear?" Gong Tianjian said calmly.

    "That''s true..." The Golden Dragon Emperor and the Dragon Devil n behind him all watched contentedly as the Great Dream Lord and Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen shed.

    "He killed well, brilliantly even! That ve isn''t bad at all, his strength extraordinary¡ªa trump card for breaking into the top ten. I hope he continues to kill more, dragging all the Heavenly Deity Alliance into the grand cause of destroying the Harmony Divine Pce." After Gong Tianjian finished speaking, she smiled knowingly.

    The entire Million Starlight Pce was full of spectators enjoying the show. Only the Ancestral Land, Nine Yin Soul Sea, and Harmony Divine Pce were at each other''s throats.

    "That little eunuch has mortally offended the two sects that were helping them. How will he end this?"

    "Impulsiveness is the devil; a moment''s recklessness ruins a foundation of 10,000 years."

    "Absolutely!"

    "He seems daring, but in factcks wisdom."

    "Where did the Harmony Divine Pce find this reckless desperado?"

    "Still protecting him like this? Shows that the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm truly has no bottom line..."

    Most of the cultivators in the MIllion Starlight Pce were stillughing, mocking the fate of Yun Xiao and Feng Yao from a superior perspective.

    They knew Yun Xiao was already strong among the geniuses, but the Grand Assembly Arena was the Grand Assembly Arena; the Heavenly Deity Ster River was the Heavenly Deity Ster River. In immortal cultivation battles, rules meant nothing. What truly decided life and death were the immortal sect overlords.

    "Let them be destroyed! Then we''ll distribute the beauties across the Heavenly Deity Ster River, so our brothers can savor the maidens who''ve been soaked in the Divine Spring Water!"

    "Hahaha..."

    Peopleughed as they continued to watch.

    Clearly, with the Southern Divine Dragon Realming back for revenge, there would be many more thrilling scenes in the fate of the Extreme Yin Star.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    On the Extreme Yin Star, Yun Xiao ignored the gazes from the spectators.

    He also disregarded the anger from the opposite side. Swiftly, like a natural-born bandit, he robbed Meng Huan clean, even stripping away his blood and Seed of Creation.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    If Pale Revenant and the Great Mother were present, he wouldn''t have left the body intact.

    "Nine Souls Talent..." Now, Yun Xiao''s spirit was based on the Seed of Creation of the Chaos Emperor Lotus, which would remain the foundation of his spirit for a long time.

    Just like his Nine Suns Dantian and Nine Heavens Star Meridians.

    "The Nine Thunders Sovereign''s Seed of Creation was meaningless; splitting identities would lead to a decrease in the main body''sbat power. But this Nine Souls Talent allows my spirit to split, enhancing the transcendence ability of the Buddha''s Treasure Art¡ªa useful boost to the Chaos Emperor Lotus."

    As this talent flowed into Yun Xiao''s body, the little spirit above his Dantian absorbed it, and amidst swirling mist, naturally split into nine, bing nine ordinary Yun Xiaos.

    Combined with Meng Huan''s Nine Souls Talent, his spirit was indeed strengthened!

 Chapter 890: Come For the Show, Stay For the Murder

    "This fellow''s skill in killing and looting is too practiced, like he''s done it 10,000 times before..."

    Among the crowd behind Yun Xiao, the white-robed girl Bai Lu from the Gu God Star watched the scene. Her eyelids twitched wildly; once again, she was shocked.

    Ever since Yun Xiao appeared and defeated her, he had given her three consecutive, unbelievable shocks.

    "Indeed, he looks like a professional bandit..." Gusu Yan''s voice trembled slightly.

    "Did he just use his opponent''s Nine Yin Dreamscape?" a girl named Hu Li asked. She was also an Anima Immortal, her face puzzled and her voice quivering.

    "It seems he did," Bai Lu nodded.

    "Why does he know the Anima Immortal Arts of the Nine Yin Soul Sea?" the young lord of the Blood Vine n wondered aloud.

    Everyone could only shake their heads; none of them knew.

    In fact, this matter was being hotly discussed inside the Million Starlight Pce, especially among those from the Nine Yin Soul Sea, but so far no one had found an answer.No one would ever guess that Yun Xiao had instantly learned his opponent''s Anima Immortal Art¡­ Otherwise, these disciples of the Empyrean Emperor Sects would feel even more as if they''d seen a ghost.

    "Wait!" Bai Ao suddenly pped his thigh, snapping out of his shock, and shouted, "I won?"

    Bai Lu and the others looked at him, speechless. They hadn''t expected Yun Xiao to win, much less to crush his opponent in an instant kill.

    Without a doubt, this celestial ve''sbat power was the greatest in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    "I won! Haha!" Bai Ao shouted excitedly.

    "What are you so happy about? The wager had nothing to do with you," Gusu Yan said, exasperated.

    "Huh?" Bai Ao pped his thigh again in regret. "If I''d known, I would''ve proposed a different bet!"

    "So, deep down, you weren''t a hundred percent sure he''d win? You just like to argue?" Gusu Yan asked.

    "Don''t say that; it pains me," Bai Ao said, almost in tears.

    "You''re upset? We''re even more upset. ording to the bet, we now have to follow his orders," Bai Lu said, even more exasperated.

    "What else can we do? We''ve already given our Personal Pledges, and Yun Xiao is truly amazing!" Bai Ao howled.

    "What do you know, you fool." Bai Lu didn''t want to bother with him anymore.

    If this were a fair game, they could choose whom they wanted to follow. But the problem was, outside the Grand Assembly Arena, their 11 Empyrean Emperor Sects were followers of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm! ??

    For a moment, their dozen or so leaders looked at each other, all sighing.

    In any case, in their eyes, the image of that celestial ve had risen again, reaching a level that inspired their awe. Should they obey him? They believed that, in time, they would find the answer in their hearts.

    "Yao Yao..." Compared to their struggle, Hai Qing and her six sisters, who were closer to Yun Xiao, felt even more conflicted.

    Their feelings were probably simr to those of the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    Hai Qing''s eyes reddened slightly; holding Feng Yao''s hand, she said in a trembling voice, "Killing Meng Huan will provoke the Nine Yin Soul Sea to deal with our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm..."

    "They came here to kick us when we''re down; they deserved to die," Feng Yao said.

    "But..." Wan Ji''s seven daughters all felt a bit afraid. They feared that the events here would cause more innocent people of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to die.

    "Don''t worry," Feng Yao said. "The Three Divas are watching. If they''re not concerned, why should you be fretting over nothing?"

    Her words had an immediate effect. Upon hearing this, Hai Qing and her sisters felt a weight lift from their shoulders.

    The seven sisters stood together, hearts trembling, gazing nkly at the figure of the young man in white.

    "He''s truly strong and daring," Hai Ying murmured, her eyes a bit dazed.

    "He''s a eunuch; he can''t bring you happiness. Don''t fall for him," Feng Yao chuckled.

    "What are you saying!" Hai Ying blushed, flustered.

    Though they knew he was a celestial ve, sometimes they forgot¡ªeven overlooking the taboos of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    In truth, it was just the natural attraction between men and women. They set aside their worries for the moment, feeling even more admiration and respect for Yun Xiao.

    But on the other side, chaos erupted.

    <em>BUZZ! </em>After Yun Xiao drained all of Meng Huan''s blood, he casually tossed the desated corpse toward Zu Wei. Smiling, he said, "A dried corpse saves space andsts longer. Makes it easier for you to take back. No need to thank me; I''m just that considerate."

    Over a dozen disciples from the Nine Yin Soul Sea, eyes bloodshot and faces twisted, roared in fury. They summoned their spirits, manifesting killing intent, and charged at Yun Xiao.

    "Beast! You won''t die a good death!"

    "Castrated dog! Die! Die!"

    "You killed Meng Huan! You''re finished! Your Extreme Yin Celestial Realm will be destroyed!"

    They howled as they lunged forward.

    Suddenly, a blood-red arrow shot into the sky!

    One of the youths had just opened his mouth when his head was pierced and exploded by the Heaven Devourer Arrow, blood sttering everywhere.

    This deadly strike shocked everyone present once again.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Uh..." The dozen disciples of the Nine Yin Soul Sea hastily halted, sweat pouring from their brows.

    They realized two things.

    First, Zu Wei and the other followers hadn''t followed them down.

    Second, Feng Yao and Wan Ji''s seven daughters had all moved behind Yun Xiao, like stars surrounding the moon.

    One by one, they set aside their worries, eyes solemn. It was clear they stood united with Yun Xiao, ready to fight alongside him to the death.

    These dozen were only part of the Nine Yin Soul Sea disciples who had entered the Grand Assembly Arena, most of them not Samsara Disciples. But behind Yun Xiao stood at least eight Fourth Baptism Realmbatants! How could they fight?

    "Senior Sister Zu Wei!"

    In their terror, they could only suppress their anger and turn back to seek help from Zu Wei.

    At that moment, the gazes of Yun Xiao and Zu Wei met once more.

    Zu Wei''s eyes were cold, murderous, and oppressive.

    But Yun Xiao''s eyes were calm, smiling, and provocative.

    "We agreed on a duel. What, now that you''re outmatched, you want to turn it into a brawl?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Zu Wei''s slender eyebrows knitted together; she said nothing. She raised her hand slightly.

    In an instant, the other disciples of the Ancestral Land, as well as their followers¡ªincluding the shocked and furious Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu¡ªgathered around her.

    Their momentum surged, clearly applying pressure, seeming ready to make a move.

    But at that moment!

    Behind Yun Xiao, within the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, 250 Empyrean Emperor Sect disciples also moved forward, whether subconsciously or consciously.

    "Sis, are we going to fight?!" Bai Ao asked excitedly.

    "We''re not opposing the Southern Divine Dragon Realm; it doesn''t count as betrayal," Bai Lu said calmly.

    Since the opponents were the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, she had no need to disobey Yun Xiao''s orders.

    "Great! This is exciting!" Bai Ao eximed.

    Their force was twice that of the enemy. With Yun Xiao, Feng Yao, and Wan Ji''s seven daughters, their momentum utterly overwhelmed the other side.

    All of this was seen by everyone on the opposing side.

    "Damn it! Thoseckeys of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm have no spine!" Mu Zhilu''sposure cracked, his handsome face twisting slightly.

    "Zu Wei, we can''t fight them! We need to call for reinforcements; our main forces aren''t here," Mu Zixiao said, remaining rtively calm.

    The disciples of the Nine Yin Soul Sea, seeing this, had to retreat and said, "Senior Sister Zu Wei, there''s no need to fight a losing battle. They dared to kill Meng Huan and have formed a blood feud with our Nine Yin Soul Sea. We''ll go back and inform the others; we''ll avenge Meng Huan and tten this ce!"

    "Let''s go!"

    "Yes, let''s spare them for now."

    Over 100 people had little will to fight.

    Apart from Zu Wei having a significant advantage, they had no confidence in the middle and lower ranks.

    Everyone looked at Zu Wei.

    Beneath Zu Wei''s veil, her face was icy cold. One could imagine the fury in her heart. However, she held it in.

    "Hai Qing." She looked past Feng Yao and Yun Xiao toward the gentle woman of the Sea Lineage and said coolly, "Since your Harmony Divine Pce has made such an outrageous choice, openly ughtering the allies who came to help you, I have nothing more to say. From this moment, the seeds of your sect''s destruction are sown. Heaven''s sins can be forgiven; self-inflicted ones cannot..."

    She shook her head and turned away coldly.

    "Stop."

    But the next moment, a yful voice sounded in her ear.

    She and the people beside her paused and turned to look at the white-robed young man who had spoken.

    In front of them, Yun Xiao slowly drew the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and raised his head, his eyes shing with sword light. He said, "Since you''re all here, none of you should leave."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 891: Jackals Harassing a Tigress!

    When Zu Wei decided to retreat, everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

    But with a single sentence from Yun Xiao, they all sucked that breath back in...

    In an instant, the three parties¡ªZu Wei''s followers, Harmony Divine Pce, and those who gave Yun Xiao their Personal Pledges¡ªfell into sudden silence.

    Each group''s feelings were truly different.

    Hai Qing and herpanions were a bit stunned by Yun Xiao''s boldness and daring.

    Bai Lu and Gusu Yan rolled their eyes, speechless. But inwardly, they couldn''t help but admire him. This kid really dared to stir up trouble, endless trouble!

    As for the disciples of the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, the anger they had just suppressed was ripped open by that one sentence, surging out like steam from a boiling pot.

    They could no longer bear it!

    At Yun Xiao''s words, over 100 people whipped around, eyes zing, murderous intent surging, staring daggers at him.In their hearts, they cursed him 1,000,000 times!

    Among them, Zu Wei, Mu Zixiao, and Mu Zhilu found it hardest to endure.

    "Hai Qing!" Mu Zixiao said coldly. "Let me ask you, are you really going to let this castrated dog run wild, forcing our Ancestral Land to be mortal enemies with you? Don''t you have enough enemies already?"

    "More words are useless," Zu Wei said indifferently, cutting off Mu Zixiao. Her emotionless eyes swept toward Yun Xiao. "You want to stop me? Go ahead and try."

    "I won''t try; I will," Yun Xiao replied simply and decisively, sealing the conflict. He gripped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, his white robes fluttering, azure sword gleaming, flying straight toward Zu Wei.

    He acted as soon as he spoke!

    "Yun Xiao...!" Hai Qing was exasperated, unable to stop him. She hurriedly said to Feng Yao, "Make sure he''s careful. Zu Wei is from the Ancestral Land, a natural triple cultivator in sword, sigil, and martial arts. She has countless techniques, endless killing moves, and is at the Establishment stage of the Fourth Baptism Realm, much stronger than Meng Huan!"

    She knew she couldn''t dissuade Yun Xiao. So, she might as well inform him of Zu Wei''s strengths to increase his chances.

    "Got it," Feng Yao shrugged, pouting. "No matter how many tricks she has, she doesn''t have more than Lil Yun. The only thing he can''t handle is someone with a cultivation too much higher."

    Such a confident deration made Hai Qing and her six sisters exchange nces, silently acknowledging that Feng Yao truly stood up for her little celestial ve.

    But this did not ease their nervousness.

    While they were still somewhat flustered, Feng Yao turned and shouted directly at Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the others, "You don''t get along with these two pretentious sects either, do you? So what are you waiting for? Go on! Give them a good beating and vent your frustrations from being tricked by Lil Yun!"

    Hearing this, Bai Lu and the others were utterly speechless. They could only think to themselves. <em>Apart from missing one thing, you two really are a match made in heaven.</em>

    But to be honest, they did have a lot of pent-up frustration. And nowhere to vent it!

    "Fight!" Bai Lu still wanted to wait and see, but before she knew it, her younger brother had dashed out, single-handedly following Yun Xiao, his blood boiling as he charged toward the two sects from the Heavenly Deity Alliance!

    "Lil Ao!" Bai Lu was so angry she nearly spat blood.

    Bai Ao was still blind. Yet, he was rushing off by himself?

    Bai Lu''s concern threw her into disarray; led by her brother''s actions, she immediately chased after him.

    "Bai Lu has made a move!"

    "Quick, follow her!"

    "Those Ancestral Land disciples love looking down their noses at people¡ªlet''s give them a beating!"

    With someone leading the charge, these 250 Empyrean Emperor Sect disciples surged out of the Extreme Yin Star like a torrent, serving for the first time under Yun Xiao, a celestial ve they had previously scorned.

    Truth be told, they were all disciples of Empyrean Emperor Sects, with a high proportion being Samsara Disciples. Once they acted, their momentum was unstoppable, like a torrent of des and swords pressing toward Zu Wei and her followers!

    Even the <em>captives</em> were joining in; how could the disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce not step up?

    Seeing this, Hai Qing could no longer worry about the friendship among the three sects. She hurriedly called to her sisters, "Quick, clear a path for Yun Xiao!"

    The seven female Martial Immortals of the Sea Lineage, though appearing delicate and charming, were in fact deep-sea behemoths¡ªimmensely powerful like leviathans, vast within, and able to withstand great damage.

    The seven covered Yun Xiao''s nks, moving even faster than Bai Lu and the others. They wielded the vast power of the boundless sea, sweeping forward and crashing into the crowd beside Zu Wei!

    Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and the other second-tier geniuses under Zu Wei became the sisters'' targets.

    "Good. Very good!" Seeing Hai Qing take the initiative to attack, even the usually calm and patient Mu Zixiao exploded in anger.

    "A bunch of foolish women! No wonder everyone in the Heavenly Deity Ster River despises you. You''re all out of your minds!" Mu Zhilu could no longer hold back and cursed aloud.

    Even their eyes burned with fury; and Zu Wei, with her naturally fiery temper, was beyond enraged. She hovered motionless in midair, appearing calm on the surface, but inside she was a roaring volcano.

    She was from the supreme Ancestral Land!

    It was one thing for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to provoke her. But for a group of girls abandoned by the world, and a lowly,ughable ve ve with a wretched life to do the same was absolutely unforgivable! How dare they try to tread on her toes?

    And then there were Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and other disciples of the Empyrean Emperor Sects¡ªdisciples from second-rate sects whom Zu Wei never took seriously. What gave them the right to ride on the coattails of others to bully her?

    This was especially true for Bai Lu! She unleashed her swarm of Ghost-Faced Celestial Spiders and spread them across the battlefield, forming an inescapable that trapped Zu Wei''s 100 followers within the torrent.

    "A tiger fallen to the ins is harassed by jackals!" Zu Wei said coldly, her battle intent surging to the heavens.

    "You''re overthinking it; I have no intention of kicking you when you''re down," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Out of my way!" Zu Wei''s eyes locked onto him. With a low growl, a vast amount of tribtion power burst from her, shaking even Mu Zixiao, Hai Qing, and others aside.

    Yun Xiao, leading Wan Ji''s seven daughters and the 250 pledge-makers, shed head-on with the 100 under Zu Wei''smand.

    In an instant, Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and magic treasures flew chaotically. Divine bodies confronted one another, colorful lights shed, and battle cries rose¡ªa magnificent scene of celestial warfare unfolded.

    At the heart of this chaotic battlefield, only Yun Xiao and Zu Wei stood alone in the open field.

    No one dared to disturb them! Because of this, whether it was Wan Ji''s seven daughters or the pledge-makers, they all tacitly acknowledged Yun Xiao as the true leader.

    Everything was up to him!

    "Brandishing worthless pledge tokens won''t change the lowliness of your bloodline and heritage!" Zu Wei sneered. "The w in your body has twisted your character, making you act recklessly to stand out, hoping to gain attention and earn respect. But that''s just your wishful thinking. Any three-year-old in the Samsara Gxy could mock you forcking even the most basic dignity of a man."

    As she spoke, Zu Wei moved, fully disying her abilities.

    "In a moment, I''ll remove your veil and see just how tough that mouth of yours really is," Yun Xiao said with a faint smile. He could tell this proud woman was a true beauty. He enjoyed her cold and confident demeanor, and he liked even more that she used his status as a celestial ve to belittle him. Otherwise, fighting her would be as nd as in water, without any thrill.

    "Hehehe." Zu Wei shook her head, letting out a derisiveugh, her arrogance unmistakable. But her pretense of calm couldn''t suppress the disgust and loathing she felt for Yun Xiao.

    She had fully entered a murderous state; exchanging another word with Yun Xiao seemed like a stain on her pride.

    At the peak of her rage, a three-inch Sword Soul soared from her right hand.

    As soon as the Sword Soul appeared, the entire battlefield was cloaked in an atmosphere of majesty and solemnity; it felt as if a sword hung over everyone''s head.

    Zu Wei''s flowing dress and long hair fluttered as the half-ck, half-white Sword Soul slowly transformed in her hand into a three-foot-long sword.

    This three-foot sword, also sharply divided into ck and white, radiated pure and immense power, exuding authority. No fewer than 800 ck and white Sword Prisons transformed into tiny swords, swirling around it, emitting a piercing whistle.

    In that moment, Zu Wei and the sword became one, like a natural judge of good and evil, noble and majestic.

    But that was far from the end!

    After the ck and white Sword Soul appeared, a Life Sigil slowly condensed in her left hand into a round shield, white on the inside and ck on the outside. The shield was engraved with densely packed inscriptions, forming script-like Rune Prisons, making this ck and white round shield resemble a celestial tome, standing before Yun Xiao.

    These ck and white Rune Prisons numbered at 780, each a small world formed by inscriptions.

    As Zu Wei twisted her neck, lines resembling tortoise shells appeared on her skin, and on her neck and even her face, faint ck and white snake patterns became visible.

    With a low growl, she emitted a strange beastly roar, both piercing and deep. A vast power of flesh and blood surged forth, clearly indicating this was a powerful divine physique belonging to a Martial Immortal.

    Sword, sigil, and martial arts¡ªall mastered.

    The Ancestral Land was connected to the Celestial Court''s lineage; Yun Xiao recalled that the White Emperor, Crown Prince, and others had simr techniques.

    However, Zu Wei''s talent far surpassed that of the White Emperor''s marginal bloodline.

    "Judgment Sword Soul, and Law Sigil, and Divine Martial Sacred Body!"

    Gasps echoed across the air.

    These were from the disciples of the Heavenly Deity Ster River expressing their admiration for this triple-threat talent. In a certain sense, Zu Wei was nearly perfect inbat.

    Swordsmanship, celestial techniques, magic treasures, and physical prowess¡­ all were mastered.

    At this moment, she was like a heavenly empress of judgment descending to the mortal world, determining good and evil, distinguishing right from wrong¡ªa symbol of authority, supreme and unmatched.

    With these abilities enhancing her, she gazed down at Yun Xiao with contempt, like a sage viewing dust, her eyes filled with pride in her bloodline and indifference.

    "Wretch, do you know what it means to be an all-powerful Immortal?" Zu Wei sought to bring him true despair.

    "Of course I know, but you''re not all-powerful enough," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Then why don''t you tell me what a true all-powerful Immortal means?" Zu Wei sneered.

    "Fine, I''ll demonstrate for you." Yun Xiao remained calm. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In one hand, he already held that seemingly ordinary three-foot azure de; under the halo of the Judgment Sword Soul, it only glimmered faintly.

    In the other, he unfurled the Runic Umbre with nine dragon heads as the ribs, blooming above his head.

    The young man in white robes, with an azure sword and violet umbre, under the gentle breeze, seemed less like he was entering a life-and-death battle and more like he was on vacation.

    "Sword, Sigil, and Soul?" Zu Wei raised an eyebrow.

    "Not just that." Yun Xiao''s body moved slightly, and the Primordial Yin-Yang Thunder Furnaces within him crackled to life.

    Cao Shuo wasn''t present, which meant he couldn''t dual-cultivate. So, his Primordial Martial Dao wasgging behind slightly. But it was enough.

 Chapter 892: Kneel, Subdue

    "Howughable!" Zu Wei shook her head. "A barren sword, a mediocre sigil, a feeble body¡ªyou''ve only got your soul attacks going for you. Do you truly think you''re worthy of mastering all four Immortal paths?"

    "Whether I can or can''t isn''t for your little mouth to decide," Yun Xiao said, flexing the azure sword and violet umbre in his hands. "They''ll be the judge of that."

    She had spoken more than she intended, trying to calm herself, to avoid losing face before her elders over a mere celestial ve. But after speaking, she felt even angrier. She was furious.

    How dare he, a mere ve, suppress her at every turn¡ªeven outshine her in words?

    She couldn''t bear it any longer, even if she lost allposure.

    "To hell with you! You worthless scum! There''s no one more despicable than you in the whole world!"

    In her rage, Zu Wei''s face contorted. She spat out crude words, drawing everyone''s gaze. Her grace was gone.

    But she didn''t care anymore.

    In the midst of the chaotic battle, her eyes locked onto Yun Xiao. Thousands of sword rays surged within them. The Judgement Sword Soul returned to a Flying Sword on her fingertip, brimming with killing intent."I''ll cripple him with the strongest Three Ancestral Swords!"

    She wouldn''t kill Yun Xiao; she wanted those Personal Pledges.

    This would deal a heavy blow to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    So, she poured all her fury into the ck and white Flying Sword in her hand.

    The Three Ancestral Swords was a famed sword art of her ancestors. For someone young to wield it, they had to endure 20 years of bitter training to grasp its true essence.

    Once the sword was unleashed, it judged all beings.

    As icy frost surged in the eyes of the girl in the ck and white dress, the ck and white Flying Sword in her hand shot forth to kill.

    The Flying Sword''s path was straight and heavy. It was like a descending guillotine, like a massive ck and white mountain, shining with a blinding light of justice.

    This Flying Sword technique came from one of the Three Ancestral Swords, called Righteousness and Radiance. It was a sword of utmost justice, unleashing immense spirit and grand vision¡ªit was fate''s judgment of the superior upon the inferior.

    In this Flying Sword technique, will surpassed all. The stronger the will, the greater the power.

    When the sword was unleashed, Zu Wei''s aura soared into the heavens, as if blessed by her ancestors¡ªexalted and supreme¡ªstirring waves of cheers on the battlefield and within the Million Starlight Pce.

    At the same moment, under this righteous force, Yun Xiao seemed like a solitary azure leaf, dim and unremarkable.

    Facing such a sword, he stood as if confronting a tsunami of justice.

    Yet he remained unmoved, a faint smile ying at the corner of his mouth.

    "You haven''t grasped the essence of this sword. Your so-called justice is piled up from bloodline and ancestral coddling¡ªnot from being a true judge."

    "Go to hell!" Zu Wei retorted, lost for words.

    "Fine, I''ll teach you myself." Yun Xiao''s eyes followed the sword''s trajectory; that de, swift beyond measure, moved like a snail in his gaze. Countless variations of swordy unfolded before him like numbers, transforming into a grand manifesto. Every word, every stroke, was etched in his eyes.

    "True judgment springs from the heart, a spirit that swallows the heavens¡ªnot relying on bloodline or ancestors. The intent resides entirely within. Only when one possesses the will of being supreme above and below, throughout the eternal torrents and the cosmos, can one be a judge in the Dao Realm..." ?

    As Yun Xiao silently recited, understanding blossomed within him. For a moment, the entire world seemed to fall silent. His aura expanded infinitely, and even the opponent before him seemed like an insignificant speck of dust.

    "The sword is fine; the wielder is too immature." Yun Xiao smiled, then casually flicked a trace of azure light from his hand. The azure light tore through the sky like a small boat crashing into a ck-and-white sea of judgment!

    In the eyes of others, it was an azure boat colliding with the vast ocean.

    In Yun Xiao''s eyes, it was a sword judging a speck of dust.

    Both had grandeur and power; the former even possessed slightly more strength, but its aura wasn''t on the same level as thetter.

    Yun Xiao was thetter.

    "Break." Standing in mid-air with his umbre, eyes piercing the heavens, Yun Xiao softly uttered a single word.

    <em>BOOM! </em>In the next instant, the two great storms of sword energy, both embodying Righteousness and Radiance, collided precisely in the middle!

    In reality, it was the sh of two vast seas. Each had its strengths and weaknesses. So, the scene was one of roaring tremors, as if the oue remained undecided.

    But Zu Wei''s mindset was shattered.

    "How does he know one of the Three Ancestral Swords?!"

    The Righteousness and Radiance before her, though slightly weaker in power, carried an aura and will that forged a sword intent reaching the heavens.

    For Zu Wei''s sword, it was a fundamental and immense blow! It was as if someone who had studied for 20 years suddenly realized they''d been learning it all wrong.

    With her mindset copsing, Zu Wei''s sword intent shattered. The Flying Sword technique that once stood evenly matched now crumbled under andslide of willpower.

    At the very moment the two swords shed, the Judgement Sword Soul¡ªdespite its stronger base power¡ªlet out a mournful cry and turned to flee!

    <em>KLANG! KLANG! KLANG! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul advanced like a de through bamboo, its unstoppable momentum suppressing the Judgement Sword Soul. Wielding the divine might of Righteousness and Radiance, it surged abruptly toward Zu Wei''s face.

    "NOOO!" Her limbs went numb, pupils dted. She couldn''t breathe; her mind went nk.

    Only when the azure light threatened her life did the foundation of decades of cultivation kick in. She suddenly gathered her Fourth Baptism Realm cultivation, channeling it into the ck-and-white round shield formed by the Law Sigil on her left hand.

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The shield shimmered as the inscriptions lit up one after another, forming a canon of 780 words.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Gripping the shield with both hands, Zu Wei frowned and let out an angry shout. She thrust it forward, and the hundreds of inscriptions surged ahead.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword of Righteousness and Radiance, after shattering her sword, had lost much of its power. Only then was it halted by the Law Sigil, bouncing back with a piercing screech.

    Even so, Zu Wei was sted backward along with the shield. In mid-air, her vital energy churned; her chest and abdomen shook. She nearly suffered internal injuries.

    As she was sent flying, her mind was in turmoil. She almost screamed hysterically, "Where did you steal the Three Ancestral Swords?!"

    Ahead, Yun Xiao emerged from the clouds, d in white robes, wielding an azure sword and holding a violet umbre. His long hair fluttered, as if he were on a leisurely spring outing.

    He said calmly, "Heaven and Earth are my teachers; when the intent arrives, the swordes naturally."

    "Rubbish!" Zu Wei didn''t believe his nonsense at all. Regaining herposure, her fury grew even stronger. She said coldly, "You, a celestial ve of the Harmony Divine Pce, dare to steal my ancestral secret art¡ªyou havemitted a capital crime of theft!"

    "Then go ahead and judge me; it seems you''re not satisfied with losing," Yun Xiao said.

    With just one stroke, he had ground Zu Wei''s pride into the dirt. The woman''s once haughty demeanor had vanished; beneath her veil, her lovely face burned with resentment.

    But that wasn''t enough.

    To truly conquer a woman, he needed her to bow in every way, not allowing her a shred of confidence¡ªeven to the point where she would demean and belittle herself, feeling utterly ashamed before him, her spirit utterly broken.

    That was the effect Yun Xiao desired.

    Yet Zu Wei was still like a wounded beast, daring to roar at him¡ªa veritable tigress.

    "Die! Die!" she screamed hysterically. Her arrogance had been shredded by Yun Xiao''s sword, her face smeared with disgrace.

    However, even at this low point, her counterattack was fierce. After all, this opponent was a genius at the pinnacle¡ªwhether in cultivation, swordsmanship, celestial techniques, or martial arts.

    She suddenly erupted. The Flying Sword in her hand transformed into a three-foot ck and white, or rather monochrome Pam Sword. One hand gripped the sword, the other held the monochrome round shield formed by her Law Sigil. Possessing the Divine Martial Sacred Body of the ck Dragon Tortoise, she was like a ferocious beast among the stars. The tribtion power from four different kinds of cmities burst forth as she roared and charged at Yun Xiao.

    "Law of Heaven''s Order!"

    Her left hand''s monochrome round shield shifted from defense to offense. The inscriptions upon it transformed, bing a medium to expand and strengthen her celestial techniques, utilizing a function simr to Yun Xiao''s Dao Dragon Form.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Those imprisoning inscriptions converged within the monochrome pir of light emitted by the shield. The beam was like a colossal scroll of heaven and earth, pressing down upon Yun Xiao''s head, causing a thunderous spatial quake.

    From this strike, it was clear that Zu Wei''sbat prowess was astonishing¡ªworthy of being the most profound genius of her sect, worthy of being a member of the Ancestral Land, an all-around Immortal born for battle. Hai Qing and the others were far from her match.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 893: Absolute Domination!

    But it wasn''t over yet. With Zu Wei''s left hand, she attacked using her Life Sigil to cast Law of Heaven''s Order. However, her right hand led the main assault. Her monochrome longsword shed over the top of the round shield, unleashing a massive monochrome sword beam. It took the shape of an open heavenly tome, slicing straight toward Yun Xiao.

    This was the Palm Sword technique of the Three Ancestral Swords¡ªMyriad Ancestors Heavenly Tome.

    As the sword strike was unleashed, the monochrome sword beam resembled a book with pages flipping wildly. On every page, the majestic visage of an ancestor appeared, coldly suppressing Zu Wei''s opponent.

    This strike was not only wondrous but solemn. It embodied the true foundational power of her ancestors. Any opponent facing Zu Wei''s sword would be outmatched in heritage.

    "Don''t think that stealing a bit of the Three Ancestral Swords''s skin-deep techniques lets you show off before me. The might of my ancestors has been profound throughout the ages. A rootless celestial ve like you are unworthy of any sword!"

    With this hysterical roar, Zu Wei finally released her pent-up frustration. Her resolve surged anew, overpowering Yun Xiao, and her fighting spirit rekindled.

    Such grandeur and divine might made her supporters, after a brief silence, feel a stronger surge of hope. They even began to cheer for Zu Wei.

    "You''re speaking too soon. I am your ancestor, and you''re using my sword techniques and celestial techniques against me?"

    At that moment, Yun Xiao stood his ground and spoke with a chuckle. While this made Zu Wei even more furious, it also caused her heart to skip a beat.Her eyes suddenly widened.

    The event that truly drove her to despair had urred.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Yun Xiao ced the Runic Umbre before him. The dragon-patterned Rune Prisons on the umbre inexplicably transformed into inscriptions. Then, urged by his tribtion power, a violet beam of light shot forth.

    "Law of Heaven''s Order?" Zu Wei gasped.

    She felt her breath catch.

    This was an even more secret celestial technique passed down by her ancestors. How could he possibly know it too? Moreover, it belonged to apletely different system than the Three Ancestral Swords!

    It wasn''t just her; even the Ancestral Land elders in the Million Starlight Pce were in an uproar.

    The violet pir of light burst forth. Though it seemed slightly weaker in sheer power, it was more rounded and intricate. Every line and texture was clearer. So despite its smaller size, it was sturdier and more perfect than Zu Wei''s own Law of Heaven''s Order!

    This was the same nightmare as moments ago with Righteousness and Radiance!

    "No... no... no¡­! "Zu Wei''s heartstrings tightened abruptly, tears nearly bursting forth.

    She stared intently at Yun Xiao. He gazed back with a smile¡ªcontemptuous and sympathetic. That look made Zu Wei feel like aplete clown, performing a ridiculous act before him.

    "Do you understand now? I am your ancestor." As Yun Xiao uttered these words, he casually swung his hand.

    <em>BOOM! </em>An azure sword beam condensed into a tome, its pages flipping wildly with sword energy. On each page was Yun Xiao''s face, smiling as he looked at Zu Wei. That smile was like a midnight nightmare, flooding into her once-proud world and tearing her very spirit to shreds.

    "What is this...?!" Though she charged forward in fury, Zu Wei let out a panicked scream.

    In the next instant¡ªsword against sword, sigil against sigil¡ªZu Wei had a massive advantage in raw power but a huge disadvantage in willpower and skill.

    Amidst the violent sh of azure, violet, ck, and white, Yun Xiao wasn''t struck by a single blow. Zu Wei, however, was first hit by the violet beam of light, then had her abdomen pierced by Yun Xiao''s Myriad Ancestors Heavenly Tome. Blood spurted as she let out a miserable scream.

    "I haven''t lost yet!"

    The girl was undeniably tough. Even under such overwhelming suppression, her eyes burned crimson as she roared in fury, the sword and sigil in her hand still resisting in defiance. ?

    "No, you''ve lost miserably."

    This sentence didn''t echo by Zu Wei''s ear¡ªit resonated within her Dantian.

    Zu Wei''s body went rigid. Her face turned deathly pale, and a chill coursed through her entire being.

    Inside her Dantian, surrounding her spirit, hovered nine swords¡ªnine of Yun Xiao''s spirits encircled hers, forcing her to kneel. They gazed down from above, smiles ying on their faces as they looked upon her spirit.

    The nine swords formed a wheel of des, tightening around her neck.

    Her life was entirely in Yun Xiao''s grasp.

    "Ah..." Zu Wei stood there, stunned and trembling. Recalling the Righteousness and Radiance, Law of Heaven''s Order, and Myriad Ancestors Heavenly Tome from moments ago, her mind went nk, and she felt an overwhelming urge to weep.

    What was happening? Her head buzzed; she couldn''t make sense of it. Clearly, her strength far surpassed his. How had she lost?

    "Now do you understand? Who is the true all-powerful Immortal?" As Yun Xiao''s spirits whispered these words beside her, Zu Wei''s heart shatteredpletely.

    Sword, sigil, and martial arts¡ªshe was utterly suppressed in every aspect.

    Her opponent was also an Anima Immortal. And in the end, it was as an Anima Immortal that he delivered the fatal blow.

    "I, I..." Zu Wei felt an unprecedented sense of submission. Even more terrifying was that she couldn''t summon any anger. All she felt was shock, confusion, a fear of death, and a profound awe and dread toward this celestial ve before her.

    What in the world was this...?

    She truly couldn''tprehend it.

    "Well then, it''s my turn to make the first move."

    At that moment, the seemingly harmless smile of the young man in white before her frightened Zu Wei to the point of tears.

    She no longer cared about others, or what the people of the Million Starlight Pce thought of this battle, nor how many were mocking her.

    In panic, she hastily asked, "You, what are you going to do?"

    Yun Xiao didn''t answer. Within her Dantian, the nine manifested Creator Immortal spirits surrounded her delicate spirit, lifting her chin with a sword.

    Then he smiled and said, "Didn''t I tell you? Let''s see how stubborn you really are."

 Chapter 894: A Mad Dog!

    "What do you mean?" Zu Wei''s spirit looked bewildered, frightened, and anxious. Before her stood nine divine-faced Creator Immortal spirits, leaving her dizzy.

    She couldn''t fathom why he possessed the elusive Nine Souls Talent.

    That was supposed to be exclusive to the Nine Yin Soul Sea!

    Then it struck her. Though this celestial ve''s body was broken, his spirit must be whole and intact...

    "What do you think I mean?" The nine Yun Xiaos spoke in unison, their soul swords pressing against her spirit. There was no need to remove her veil; even in spirit form, she was a celestial beauty with a sacred face and aloof demeanor, like a proud peacock¡ªa born judge.

    She looked inherently superior, carrying an air of privilege.

    "I... I don''t know..." Zu Wei''s spirit stammered, her eyes filling with tears, about to cry.

    At that moment, her heart copsed into despair; gone was her former aloof and cold indifference.

    Like a female general pulled off her horse and thrown into the mud, her armor stripped away, all aura gone.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om"You don''t know? I''ll make you know."

    Yun Xiao''s nine swords pressed down sharply. His voice was cold and contemptuous: "Kneel!"

    "Ugh!" Zu Wei finally understood. Her pupils widened, her face twisted, tears bursting from her eyes.

    Of course, this was just her spirit.

    Outside, people saw Zu Wei utterly defeated, immobilized by Yun Xiao''s Prison Warden Sigil, unable to move. She wept bitterly in mid-air, her whole body trembling, her face filled with grief and despair.

    From her hair to her toes, she radiated shame; she hadpletely copsed.

    "She just lost, didn''t she? Crying so hard¡ªanyone would think Lil Yun did something awful to her! That scumbag¡­!" Feng Yao was the first to notice the battle here. Yun Xiao defeating his opponent didn''t surprise her.

    She knew Yun Xiao; once he took action, the battle was as good as won.

    "Wow¡­!" Hai Qing paused, puzzled as she watched Zu Wei''s tears of humiliating copse. Shaking her head, she said, "Maybe she was too proud to ept the fact that she lost!"

    "How dull." Feng Yao rolled her eyes, then shouted loudly, "Zu Wei has been utterly defeated! Everyone, press the advantage! Wipe them out! Spare those who surrender!"

    Her words shook the battlefield, pulling many geniuses absorbed inbat back to reality.

    "Senior Sister Zu Wei...!"

    Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and the others saw Zu Wei held in Yun Xiao''s grasp like a helpless chick. The proud scion of the Ancestral Land, now sobbing like a quail. Their faces turned pale; their minds shattered.

    Hai Qing was merely someone the Mu brothers tried to befriend; Zu Wei was their true goddess. Seeing the goddess of their hearts reduced to this, rage surged within them, yet their hearts grew cold¡ªfor they themselves were no match for Zu Wei.

    Even Zu Wei had been subdued by Yun Xiao. Their 100 disciples were already outnumbered and outmatched. What hope did they have of breaking through?

    "Strike while the iron is hot! Take them down!" Feng Yao''s cold words made those in the Carefree Windy Clouds faction sense the scent of a great victory. They all joined the crushing battle.

    "Beat the dog while it''s down!"

    The opposing side copsed; their fighting spirit was close to shattering entirely.

    Zu Wei''s despairing sobs became swords piercing their hearts. They couldn''t bear it.

    They themselves had given up. But was there any need to cry so miserably?

    Even in defeat, it shouldn''t be like this!

    What they didn''t know was that over at the Million Starlight Pce, countless spectators were watching this scene. The entire Sourcecore Sanctuary was in an uproar.

    "My heavens!"

    "This celestial ve... he''s truly audacious and utterly insane!"

    "Incredible! Absolutely incredible!"

    Powerhouses from all sides could hardly imagine what expressions the Ancestral Land elders were wearing.

    Everyone craned their necks to look toward the Ancestral Land''s section.

    Sure enough, over there, the renowned elders all stood up from their seats. Their faces were purple, eyes bulging, pores seething, anger boiling in their minds.

    Their heavy breathing sounded like enraged beasts, suppressing those around them into silence.

    "That eunuch dog is humiliating Zu Wei!"

    Someone couldn''t help but shout in shock, their voice trembling.

    "Even if it''s just her spirit, the Ancestral Land can''t ept this, can they? A warrior can be killed but not humiliated..."

    "Damn, it feels like a fresh cabbage being rooted by a dead pig, even if it''s only in spirit."

    Countless people spoke up at once. Even cultivators from other ster rivers excitedly joined the heated discussion.

    "That celestial ve is truly a mad dog! From start to finish, he''s been stirring up trouble¡ªhow many grand dramas has he caused?"

    "Controlling Shen Nanyin, humiliating the Young Dragon Lord, sowing discord in the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s alliance¡ªthat''s one incredible feat!"

    "Seeing through the conspiracies of the two founding sects from the Heavenly Deity Alliance, andpletely dominating Zu Wei¡ªthat''s the second amazing feat!"

    "These two events on their own are explosive! What does that make this?!"

    "Onlookers can''t imagine how furious those sanctimonious ancestral powerhouses must be!"

    "Can''t you see that their faces are turning the color of pig liver?!"

    "The worst part is, they can only fume here; if they interfere, the Ancestral Land will be disqualified from the Grand Assembly Ranking."

    "If more from the Harmony Divine Pce were here, they could exert pressure. But now there''s only the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen¡ªthey can''t fight, and scolding is pointless."

    "They can only swallow their anger!"

    "In this way, once the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is over¡ªnot to mention the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªthe Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea will first make sure the Harmony Divine Pce can''t survive for letting this celestial ve run amok..."

    "This is what they call seeking momentary pleasure and inviting endless cmities. That celestial ve has no idea what a great disaster he''s stirring up."

    "Truly a mad dog!"

    People cursed and sighed. From an ordinary perspective, it was hard to admire Yun Xiao. They could admit he was fierce and wild, but they''d never think he was doing something wise.

    The curses were unending. Yet, some couldn''t help but envy the kid deep down.

    "This boy is really something. Enjoying blessings on the spot without considering the future. With his crippled body, to desecrate the spirit of such a heavenly beauty¡ªeven if he dies, it''s worth it."

    "Just for that, he earns a bit of respect."

    "But¡ª"

    Even some powerhouses from the Heavenly Deity Alliance looked at the Ancestral Land with deep confusion.

    "Empyrean Emperor Mu," the Great Dream Lord said, her face still filled with resentment. She nced at Empyrean Emperor Mu beside her, whose face was ashen like pig liver. Biting her lip, she asked, "Why does this kid know the Three Ancestral Swords and Law of Heaven''s Order? And he''s using them so well?"

    Yun Xiao had conquered Zu Wei. It was an undeniable fact that none present could change.

    But the Great Dream Lord''s doubts drew even greater attention from the powerhouses.

    Empyrean Emperor Mu''s eyes narrowed. Gritting his teeth, he said, "Yes, that''s right. He''s using the core secret arts of our Ancestral Land..."

    "Could this celestial ve be a defector from the Ancestral Land?" the Great Dream Lord asked in astonishment.

    "As far as I know, there''s no such person in our sect." Empyrean Emperor Mu shook his head.

    If Yun Xiao truly possessed such extraordinary talent, he wouldn''t be unknown within the Ancestral Land.

    If he were ordinary, he couldn''t have essed our two secret arts. It didn''t add up.

    From what he knew, Empyrean Emperor Mu believed it was unlikely that Yun Xiao came from the Ancestral Land. But he couldn''t be sure.

    He spun around, eyes scanning the other Ancestral Land powerhouses.

    They met his gaze, equally puzzled.

    "Does anyone know why this boy can wield the Three Ancestral Swords and Law of Heaven''s Order?" Empyrean Emperor Mu demanded. "If anyone knows, speak up now. Your punishment will be lighter."

    He suspected someone might have trained this celestial ve but was afraid to admit it.

    "Empyrean Emperor Mu, only a few can ess both the Three Ancestral Swords and Law of Heaven''s Order," an old man reminded him. "If someone had guided this boy, they wouldn''t deny it."

    "Then where did he learn them?" Empyrean Emperor Mu''s frown deepened.

    The old man pressed his lips together. "When the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects ends," he said gravely, "the truth wille out."

    His words made it clear¡ªthey wouldn''t spare Yun Xiao.

    "Hmm!" Empyrean Emperor Mu turned back coldly, fixing his gaze on the solitary Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen in the distance. He called out, "Your Harmony Divine Pce''s celestial ve has stolen our Ancestral Land''s core secrets. Do you admit it?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 895: The Ol Double Dingle-Dong Diceroo

    Chapter 895: The Ol'' Double Dingle-Dong Diceroo

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had anticipated Empyrean Emperor Mu''s suspicions. She responded calmly, "I don''t think so. What he''s using is far superior to Zu Wei''s abilities. Perhaps it''s merely a resemnce; it may not be your Ancestral Dao."

    "There''s no point in quibbling," Empyrean Emperor Mu shook his head, a hint of frustration in his voice.

    "Empyrean Emperor Mu," said the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen as she raised her gaze, her eyes meeting his. "Things havee this far; there''s no need for further words. Let''s watch what unfolds next."

    Empyrean Emperor Mu hesitated, an unknown fury simmering within him. He might be even more enraged and resentful than the Great Dream Lord herself.

    Though they had harbored ill intentions, Yun Xiao''s two sessive ps had been too ruthless and brutal, leaving their two great sects utterly disgraced. Yet they could only swallow their humiliation.

    "Fine!" Empyrean Emperor Mu spat out the word through clenched teeth. The atmosphere among the nearby seats of the Heavenly Deity Alliance grew icy.

    One could imagine the depth of loathing the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea now bore toward the Harmony Divine Pce.

    Their animosity even surpassed that toward the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    Because of these events, the Dragon Devil n, who had also been humiliated earlier due to the Young Dragon Consort, exchanged uneasy nces, their emotions a tangled web."The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen is truly audacious, still defending that little celestial ve. They''vepletely torn off all pretenses now," Gong Tianjian murmured softly.

    Even so, the Golden Dragon Emperor furrowed his brow, saying little.

    "Do you fear that after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects concludes, the three factions won''t truly sh?" Gong Tianjian asked.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor slowly shook his head. His gaze was fixed on the white-robed youth within the shimmering screen. In a deep voice, he said, "They will sh. The Ancestral Land values face above all else; causing them to lose face is more painful than destroying them."

    "Then what concerns you?" Gong Tianjian inquired, puzzled.

    Pointing at the white-d youth, the Golden Dragon Emperor said, "This boy first employed the Nine Yin Dreamscape of the Nine Yin Soul Sea, then wielded the Three Ancestral Swords and Law of Heaven''s Order in session. Whatever others use, he mirrors effortlessly.

    "His talents in swordsmanship, sigil arts, martial arts, and soul arts are exceptional. His status as a celestial ve makes us naturally despise, underestimate, and pity him, diminishing his perceived threat. But when we set aside the fact that he''s a celestial ve and think carefully, thisd is quite an enigma."

    Gong Tianjian was struck by his words, her brows knitting together. "You''re right. It''s evident that the Supreme Yin Cauldron appears to be his mistress on the surface but behaves like his little darling, even a pampered daughter. And the Three Divas allow him free rein, even to the point of offending the Ancestral Land..."

    "Indeed, it''s very strange," the Golden Dragon Emperor said gravely. "Had we known earlier that this boy was such a variable, we should have eliminated him outside. Now that he''s within the Grand Assembly Arena, it''s more difficult to deal with him."

    Gong Tianjian nodded, sensing the Golden Dragon Emperor''s concern. After a moment''s thought, she said, "But after all, he''s just a young man, not some ancient monster. And whether it''s the Ancestral Land, Nine Yin Soul Sea, or the Dragon Devil n, all have their main forces present. As long as they recognize his threat and go all out, capturing him shouldn''t be too challenging."

    "Well..." The Golden Dragon Emperor wasn''t one to bolster others while undermining himself; he simply felt something was very strange, very peculiar.

    "I hope that after this humiliation, that boy Long Hao will learn a little," the Golden Dragon Emperor muttered with a sigh.

    Long Hao was his son, the husband of Shen Nanyin¡ªthe Young Dragon Lord of the Golden Dragon Emperor.

    "During his first attack, Long Hao went all out like a lion pouncing on a rabbit, not underestimating his foe in the slightest. Yet that celestial ve exploited his weakness. Now, the entirety of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s forces has gathered nearly 2,000 geniuses, showing how seriously they take this opponent," Gong Tianjian remarked.

    "Indeed." The Golden Dragon Emperor rested his hands on the armrests, leaned back on his seat, and narrowed his eyes as he waited.

    After themotion, calm gradually returned.

    Everyone knew that after a brief lull, the lively Heavenly Deity Ster River region would soon face an even more ferocious storm.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    In the Grand Assembly Arena, on the Extreme Yin Star¡­

    "Wahhh! Wahhh!" Zu Wei''s spirit slumped over her Dao Heart. Her long hair was disheveled, her face pale, eyes red and swollen. Even though she was in spirit form, tears of despair streamed down.

    She was distraught, consumed by grief and rage, and murmured miserably, "You wretched celestial ve, you''ve ruined me! You deserve 1,000 deaths. You''ll meet a terrible end, and all those vile bitches of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm will perish with you¡­!"

    "Are you cursing me or blessing me? With so many beauties apanying me, wouldn''t I be quite the romantic even as a ghost? I''d be busy for tens of thousands of years," a teasing voice echoed in her ear, pushing her further into despair.

    "You... shameless scoundrel!" Zu Wei was like a drenched cat; her pride had been utterly shredded, and even her voice quavered with sobs.

    She didn''t know what else to do but hurl curses in her breakdown.

    "This is what you get for being stubborn¡ªcall it karma," the voice sounded again, now tinged with impatience, "Alright, enough teasing. You''re taking it too seriously."

    "Too seriously? You must take responsibility!" Zu Wei cried out in sorrow and fury.

    "Are you joking? Asking me to take responsibility for something that didn''t actually happen?!"

    "One day, I''ll bring you down with me to erase today''s humiliation!" Zu Wei wailed desperately.

    "No time to indulge your madness. Look up," the voicemanded once more.

    When the voice turned cold, Zu Wei''s entire being trembled. Noticing a violet light illuminating her, she slowly lifted her head.

    "You...!" A colossal violet eye appeared before Zu Wei''s primordial spirit. Within it coiled a nine-headed violet dragon¡ªfierce yet divine¡ªmuch like Yun Xiao himself. Though it seemed ethereal and graceful, it was, in truth, domineering and ruthless.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    An instinctive fear gripped Zu Wei. She asked in rm, "What are you doing?"

    "Nothing much, just making you more obedient."

    As Yun Xiao spoke, the nine-headed violet dragon emerged from the Soulfire Eye, looming over her spirit. The nine dragon heads lunged downward.

    "Ahhh!" Zu Wei''s terrified cries echoed once more.

    No one knew how much torment and humiliation she had endured. Though it was on a spiritual level¡ªnot as intense or obvious as the Young Dragon Consort''s public humiliation¡ªit tugged even more at the heartstrings.

    Atst, the violet light faded.

    In the center of the chaotic battlefield, the violet dragon shadows surrounding the white-robed youth slowly withdrew from Zu Wei. The proud beauty, once cold and aloof in her ck-and-white dress, now stood before Yun Xiao with disheveled hair, a pale face, and tear-streaked cheeks, staring nkly.

    "Have you be obedient?" Yun Xiao gazed into her eyes, where dragon shadows lingered.

    "Mhm..." Zu Wei lowered her head, murmuring softly, her body still trembling.

    Yun Xiao lifted her chin, making her look at the chaotic battlefield around them. "Order them to surrender their Personal Pledges to me. Not a single one is to be missed."

    When Zu Wei raised her eyes, she saw that all her subordinates¡ªincluding Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu¡ªhad been captured and were now held before her.

    Among them, Empyrean Emperor Mu''s two sons were restrained by Hai Qing and her six sisters. These female Martial Immortals possessed immense strength. The two elegant young men were covered in blood, their faces filled with resentment, unable to move.

    "Damn celestial ve! Let her go! You''ll die a horrible death!" Mu Zixiao shouted at Yun Xiao, clearly unconvinced and still clinging to the pride of the Ancestral Land.

    He firmly believed that the Harmony Divine Pce stood on the brink of destruction, that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm would surely annihte them, and that they¡ªand Yun Xiao¡ªmust kneel and beg the Ancestral Land for protection as their only hope.

    He couldn''t be med; this was themon belief. It was precisely because of this that the Ancestral Land held such sway over the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    "Despicable dog! You''re destroying the survival path of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! You''ve angered our Ancestral Land and the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Once our elders join forces, you''ll doom all the innocent people there!" Mu Zhilu snarled as he struggled.

    Yun Xiao shook his head at their words. "Gentlemen, if you''re going to speak, then speak. Calling me a celestial ve and eunuch dog with every breath makes you seem quite small-minded."

    "You, a rootless man, know what shame is?" Mu Zixiao shouted, his face flushing with rage as he saw Zu Wei tormented.

    No sooner had he spoken than a de of light shed next to his groin area, erupting in a spray of blood.

    "GAHH!¡­!" Mu Zixiao screamed, his face turning a ghastly shade.

    Beside him, Mu Zhilu didn''t even have time to react before the azure light pierced him as well, felling two birds with one stone.

    The two brothers copsed together, their faces purple, bodies convulsing, their legs twitching uncontrobly.

    "What?" Hai Qing and her six sisters, who had been guarding the brothers, were so startled they let go and stepped back.

    Though celestial ves weremon in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, they had never witnessed such a scene. For a moment, they red at Yun Xiao with a mix of annoyance and disbelief.

    "Couldn''t you have warned us first!"

    Caught off guard, their dresses were stained with blood, making them feel both embarrassed and disgusted. They hurriedly washed it off with water.

    Their frantic cleaning contrasted sharply with the Mu brothers'' desperate wails, heightening the drama of the moment.

    "Zixiao! Zhilu!"

    The other disciples of the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea were horrified. The men among them instinctively covered themselves, fearing they might provoke this mad celestial ve and meet the same fate.

    Only now did they break into cold sweat, fully realizing they had fallen into the hands of a reckless lunatic.

    This madman had even killed Meng Huan without hesitation; would he spare them?

    The fate of the Mu brothers was a ring example.

    They hadn''t grasped the gravity of the situation, daring to curse at him repeatedly.

    "Well, now it''s settled. They''re free from worldly desires and can''t curse others anymore..."

    The 100 followers trembled inwardly.

    Facing a madman like Yun Xiao, they were utterly terrified, feeling like weeping but without tears.

    Even more disconcerting was that Zu Wei showed no reaction to the brothers'' miserable state. She stood beside Yun Xiao like a subdued chick and said to everyone, "Hand over your Personal Pledges to him. If you die, don''t me me."

    "Hand them over! Hand them over!"

    The 100 followers scrambled to present their Personal Pledges to Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao epted them with a smile, then turned to the somewhat conscious Mu brothers, who were still whimpering like drenched dogs. "Hand yours over too, gentlemen. Though you''ve lost your little heads, after handing them over, at least you can keep your big ones."

 Chapter 896: Honeypot! Honeypot! Honeypot!

    Chapter 896: Honeypot! Honeypot! Honeypot!

    A single remark about losing their manhood was more than Wan Ji''s seven daughters and the 250 pledge-makers could bear.

    Bai Lu and the others had been forced to submit to Yun Xiao, but they hadn''t suffered abuse.

    In contrast stood Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu. They had cursed so loudly before; now they wept even louder.

    Their hands were stained with blood. Though no one controlled them, they were disheartened, tears streaming down in utter regret.

    As for anger, when Yun Xiao''s cold gaze fell upon them, they truly didn''t dare to be angry anymore.

    Castrated and having thoroughly offended the Ancestral Land¡ªthis fellow had even in Meng Huan; how could he show mercy to the brothers?

    Even Zu Wei had been humiliated!

    "I''ll hand it over!"

    "We''ll both hand it over!"No matter how much they cursed inwardly, the two brothers hurried to obediently surrender their Personal Pledges.

    What upied their minds was merely waiting until the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects concluded, so this damned celestial ve would face the overwhelming wrath and lethal intent of their Ancestral Land powerhouses and their father.

    "Hah¡­" Seeing the Mu brothers castrated,pletely stripped of a man''s joy, and trembling as they bowed to Yun Xiao, the other followers lowered their heads and sighed, losing all will to fight.

    Zu Wei, Meng Huan, and the Mu brothers¡ªthese four young leaders: one was conquered and humiliated, one was in, and two were crippled!

    They had all knelt; what else could the others do?

    Under the cold gazes of Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the Bloodvine Young Masters, these 100 disciples could only obediently hand over their Personal Pledges, which flew toward Yun Xiao.

    In the history of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, Yun Xiao was perhaps the only one using Personal Pledges in ce of Parent gs.

    After collecting them all, Yun Xiao held nearly 400 Personal Pledges in his hands!

    It was clear that Bai Lu and the others had fought hard in this battle.

    Yun Xiao knew what they were thinking. They didn''t want only themselves to be constrained by him; the more people who joined, the less pressure and criticism they''d face.

    As for the future of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, it wasn''t their concern and had little to do with them. With the excuse of the Personal Pledges, they could shirk responsibility no matter who won or lost when the time came.

    So, with more people, the Extreme Yin Star''s Carefree Windy Clouds faction increased itsbat power instead.

    "Release them," Yun Xiaomanded.

    Standing amid the roaring blizzard, his white robes fluttered as his voice¡ªmajestic and cold¡ªcarried an irresistible pressure.

    Hai Qing, Bai Lu, and the otherspletely released them, allowing the disciples of the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea to regain partial freedom.

    Unfortunately, Yun Xiao had already grasped their Personal Pledges.

    Even though they were released, no one left. The 100 disciples stood there, faces grim, each bowing their heads under the weight of inner defeat.

    The Mu brothers, once potential leaders, now hung their heads. Their faces were ashen, legs trembling, wishing they could find a hole to crawl into.

    Hai Qing and her six sisters stood nearby, their delicate fragrances drifting in the air. Yet the brothers didn''t dare to look. After all, looking would do them no good now.

    "Yun Xiao, we came to support you, helped you once, and you repay kindness with ingratitude!" a young female disciple of the Ancestral Land cried out, tears welling in her eyes. "All the elders in the Million Starlight Pce have seen your crimes clearly. You keep courting death¡ªwhat do you n to do with us?"

    She stared desperately at this man who was undeniably handsome yet seemed like a devil.

    In her heart, the Mu brothers were perfect senior brothers, but Yun Xiao had shattered her dreams. Her heart was in pieces.

    "Don''t worry," Yun Xiao replied, as if he didn''t notice her despair. "Having captured you all, there will be times when you can achieve great deeds for my Carefree Windy Clouds faction."

    "Achieve great deeds for you? Dream on!"

    Others, besides the Mu brothers, gritted their teeth in refusal, unable to ept their fate.

    "Only those who are both righteous and strong can inspire heroes to follow them!" the junior sister shouted sharply, tears streaming down. "You are merely brutal without morality. Even if you take our Personal Pledges, no one will risk their lives for you!"

    "Is that so?" Yun Xiao smiled and shrugged. He turned away from them and looked at Zu Wei beside him. She hung her head, sobbing, shame written all over her. "You only brought over 100 people. That''s too few."

    "W-what do you want?" Zu Wei''s delicate body trembled, her voice numb.

    Though Yun Xiao used the Soulfire Eye to control her soul, he didn''t delve too deep, leaving her room to think and feel.

    He had his reasons. First, like with Shen Nanyin, he wanted to make it seem real, so others wouldn''t realize Zu Wei had be his puppet. It made things easier.

    Second, while he was stronger than Zu Wei and Shen Nanyin in spirit, these geniuses had strong souls themselves. Yun Xiao couldn''t control thempletely.

    So Zu Wei''s current behavior¡ªbeing overly afraid of Yun Xiao¡ªwasn''t unusual.

    To the spectators, a peak saintess being suppressed like this by a madman, clinging to life was understandable.

    "What do you want?" she asked again.

    Yun Xiao ced his hands on her shoulders, staring into her eyes. His voice was low and dangerous.

    "Use your status to send flying talismans to all those willing to follow the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea. Summon them to the Extreme Yin Star, to avenge Meng Huan. Make sure to send the messages separately. Don''t have too manye at once; we can''t handle too many at once."

    Even though they were released, not a single person left. Hundreds stood there, faces bleak, each burdened by inner turmoil, heads hung low.

    Zu Wei still had some rity of mind. Hearing this, her scalp tingled; she snapped her head up, eyes wide in shock. "No way! You''re using my Ancestor Land''s reputation to set a trap! That''s too despicable and shameless! I''d rather vite my Personal Pledge and be eliminated..."

    Before she could finish, Yun Xiao raised his hand, pinching both her ears, lifting her pretty face up to his. The Life Sigil pattern on his forehead glowed, illuminating Zu Wei''s eyes.

    A faint, cold smile yed at the corners of Yun Xiao''s mouth. "Actually, I didn''t take your Personal Pledge. I trust you. You can definitely do this, right? Together, we''ll defeat the Southern Divine Dragon Realm..."

    "Ah!" The terror in Zu Wei''s eyes gradually faded; her gaze grew vacant, wisps of violet swirling within her pupils.

    "Yes... together, we''ll defeat the Dragon Devil n. We are allies," she murmured, nodding to Yun Xiao.

    "Send out the call. Feel free to describe how despicable I am. Proactively gather heroes from all over toe and uphold justice. Be quick about it," Yun Xiao released her and patted her cheek.

    "Yes! I''ll hurry!" Zu Wei became excited, as if entrusted with a grand mission. She was a figure simr to the Young Dragon Lord, with extensive connections. As a celestial goddess, she had countless admirers.

    In terms of rallying power, with her righteous and illustrious background from the Ancestral Land and as a member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, she far surpassed the Young Dragon Lord.

    But as someone from a prestigious sect, she usually disdained relying on her admirers'' support.

    This was where she differed from the Young Dragon Lord; he relied on the might of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, using threats and bribes to forcibly recruit others.

    Now, as she sent out one flying talisman after another, Yun Xiao could already foresee flocks of fat sheep, as if injected with adrenaline, racing toward the Extreme Yin Star as if weing spring.

    "Hope we can handle them," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    Feng Yao, Hai Qing, and the other eight listened to his arrangements, their eyes wide with astonishment.

    "Goodness, he''s really fleecing them dry," Hai Qing couldn''t help but exim.

    She was undoubtedly shocked.

    In the past, her sisters had fought in the Grand Assembly Arena relying solely on raw strength¡ªjust seven or eight of them, always outnumbered, exhausting themselves to the limit.

    But this celestial ve, after securing the first batch of people, was now rolling a snowball that was getting bigger and bigger.

    "Yun Xiao truly has the genius of an Emperor," Hai Qing couldn''t help but praise.

    "Save it," Feng Yao curled her lips. "He has the ability, but he''s carefree by nature. If he weren''t forced, he''d be toozy to y this game."

    "You know him that well?" Hai Qing asked with a teasing smile.

    She realized what she was implying and suddenly felt it was absurd that she was pairing Feng Yao and Yun Xiao together.

    "Perhaps there really is a love that transcends the physical. Maybe I''m being shallow. Cultivators'' love doesn''t necessarily need that kind of..." Hai Qing thought to herself. This showed that she now respected Yun Xiao enough to see him as someone on par with Feng Yao.

    "Things are going to get busy," Feng Yao said, curling her lips. "Lil Yun is having Zu Wei''s admirerse to the Extreme Yin Star in batches for revenge. I wonder how many wille?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "No worries, let theme slowly." Hai Qing couldn''t help butugh. "The Southern Divine Dragon Star is too far away, and the <em>admirers</em> will move faster in small groups, making it easier to capture them and strengthen our Carefree Windy Clouds faction."

    At this moment, Zu Wei''s flying talismans had already been sent out, but Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and the 100 or so new recruits had no idea what was about to happen.

    After arranging everything with Zu Wei, Yun Xiao approached them with a cold expression. "New captives, each of you must pay a protection fee of 10,000 Supreme Immortal Jades. You can choose not to pay and vite your Personal Pledges to exit thepetition, but let''s see whether my sword is faster or you exiting is faster."

    "Celestial sl... Yun Xiao! Don''t go too far!" Mu Zixiao''s eyes were bloodshot. Clenching his fists, he raised his head angrily, ring at Yun Xiao.

    Just as he finished speaking, a three-foot azure de was pressed against Mu Zixiao''s mouth, shredding his tongue to pieces.

    "Ah! Ah!" Mu Zixiao leaned back, mouth full of blood, face covered in tears.

    "Mu Zixiao, take the lead and stand up for our celestial ve group. We''re not real men, but we''re braver than most," Yun Xiao said.

    "I''ll pay! I''ll pay!" Mu Zixiao hurriedly said, hands trembling as he took out a Bag of Holding. In a quivering voice, he said, "It''s just 10,000, right? I can afford it!"

    With his example, everything went much more smoothly.

    In a short time, Yun Xiao collected over 1,000,000 Supreme Immortal Jades, making Blue Star and Red Moon''s eyes widen. They thought to themselves that collecting a protection fee was indeed a quick way to make money.

    "Why are only we paying? Did they pay?" Mu Zhilu asked indignantly, pointing at Bai Lu and the others.

    "They did," Yun Xiao looked at Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the others, raising an eyebrow. "Tell them, did you pay?"

    Bai Lu bit her lip and quickly said, "Um, yes, we paid..."

    Hearing this, those paying felt bnced in their minds.

    In reality, Bai Lu and the others hadn''t paid, because the situations of the two groups were different. Bai Lu''s group were originally supporters of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Getting them to willingly serve him was very difficult.

    Some people needed to be sincerely recruited; others just needed a beating. This was the art of controlling people.

    With this little detail, Bai Lu and Gusu Yan exchanged nces. Through this grading and preferential treatment, subtle changes urred in their hearts.

    In fact, they were now among the strongest fighters in Yun Xiao''s Carefree Windy Clouds faction and had fought for him before.

    From now on, things would only go more smoothly.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 897: The Third Calamity Source?

    "Ahem." Yun Xiao gave a light cough, casting his gaze over the former followers of that foolish Young Dragon Lord.

    He believed these people weren''t dim-witted; when offered benefits, they''d ept them without pushing him to the point of charging them protection fees as well.

    Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, Jiang Dongcheng, Ah Jiao, the Bloodvine Young Master, and others quickly nodded discreetly, deciding to restrain their junior disciples themselves.

    "A celestial ve with quite some skill," Gusu Yan murmured appreciatively.

    "Stop underestimating him because of his status," Bai Lu said deeply. "Those who didn''t realize this have suffered greatly. Missing that part doesn''t diminish his intellect, talent,bat prowess, or ruthlessness."

    "Indeed..." Gusu Yan agreed with a nod, silently adding to himself, "What a pity. For a man, that''s still crucial; without it, life loses its meaning."

    He couldn''t help but nce at Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu. These two were geniuses on his level, even boasting higher backgrounds and stronger sects, more renowned than himself. But now... he could only click his tongue.

    "The pressure from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm must be immense. I bet he''ll have Zu Wei continue recruiting," Bai Lu suddenly said.

    Her brother, Bai Ao, shivered with excitement. "Goodness! They''re treating this ce like flypaper¡ªwhoeveres gets stuck, and no one escapes!""You''re the fly, not me," Bai Lu rolled her eyes, exasperated with her dimwitted brother.

    "We share the same parents; we must be the same species," Bai Ao chuckled.

    "Get lost, get lost, get lost..." Bai Lu told him to scram dozens of times, thoroughly annoyed.

    "Then I''ll just wait here to fight the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to the death!" Bai Ao dered passionately.

    Bai Lu and Gusu Yan exchanged nces and could only cover their faces.

    Yet, deep down, they felt uneasy.

    "Honestly, I''m really curious now," Gusu Yan said softly to those beside him. "How far can this youth go by borrowing momentum to build a snowball against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm?"

    "Let''s just keep watching," Bai Lu replied.

    "What I mean is, what should we do?" Gusu Yan asked.

    "Didn''t you see? If we don''t obey, the men are... dealt with, and the women humiliated. What else can we do?" Bai Lu crossed her arms, biting her lip. "No matter what, we''re being forced by this fiend! We have no choice!"

    "Ahem, understood."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The 11 of them nodded silently.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao had convened a meeting with Feng Yao and Wan Ji''s seven daughters.

    "Yao Yao, and you seven sisters," Yun Xiao said. "Before the Dragon Devil n arrives, I''ll leave the task of recruiting new teammates to you."

    "What are you going to do?" Feng Yao stared at him, somewhat displeased.

    "Naturally, I''m going to cultivate," Yun Xiao said, holding arge pile of Bags of Holding. He was polite to Hai Qing and the others, but his attitude toward Feng Yao remained the same.

    "I''ming too," Feng Yao pouted.

    ¡°Hell no. It¡¯s not the right time for you yet. Wait until there''s an ocean of blood before youe to me,¡± Yun Xiao said sternly.

    ¡°That¡¯s not happening. Make each of them pay a bucket of blood as a protection fee instead,¡± Feng Yao retorted with a snort.

    She wanted to follow Yun Xiao¡¯s example, to carve out her own path and alleviate some of his burdens.

    ¡°Nonsense.¡±

    With everything hinging on money, asking for blood was out of the question.

    These people were already on edge. Pushing them further would be futile; they needed a glimmer of hope.

    ¡°Behave yourself!¡± Yun Xiao red at Feng Yao before folding his arms, sinking into the blizzard below, and strode away.

    As for Hai Qing and the others, they were ustomed to Feng Yao getting talked down to in front of Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Damn it, that Lil Yun has be so arrogant. He¡¯s reckless. I¡¯ll make sure to punish himter,¡± Feng Yao said awkwardly, forcing a smile.

    ¡°Understood, understood."

    Wan Ji''s seven daughters nodded, smiling.

    ¡°You brat, I¡¯ll lop off that thing of yours and salt-cure it for real sooner orter!¡± Feng Yao eximed, feeling humiliated and annoyed.

    ¡°Eh?¡± Her seven sisters froze in surprise.

    ¡°Ahem, uhh... I meant the salt-curing part! Of course, it''s already been lopped off!¡± Feng Yao quickly exined.

    Unexpectedly, Wan Ji''s seven daughters were even more shocked. Hai Ying leaned in and whispered, ¡°Feng Yao, I heard that after a celestial ve is cleansed, that part cannot be retained. Did you really keep it? And now you''re gonna salt-cure it...¡±

    Feng Yao was stunned, her mind swirling in the wind. After a long moment, to dispel the awkwardness, she looked into the distance, pped her thigh, and said, ¡°That Zhu Wei¡¯s charm is something else. People will be arriving soon. Sisters, set thes!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Behind the Nexus of the Extreme Yin Star was a deep valley, dotted with numerous secluded caves. Above, the wind and snow raged, making the area highly concealed.

    The focus of the Million Starlight Pce wasn¡¯t in this location.

    Yun Xiao arrived here alone. His white robes fluttered as he advanced through the blizzard, delving deeper into the valley until he reached a secluded cavern.

    ¡°Diva, I have arrived,¡± Yun Xiao whispered.

    The entire valley was shrouded in an artificial ice and snow mist. Yun Xiao knew that by stepping in, his figure in the Million Starlight Pce had likely vanished. Not to mention his voice.

    This was because¡­ the Snow Lineage Diva Si Ji was so powerful that she could obscure part of the Grand Assembly Arena¡¯s celestial formations!

    She was the strongest being Yun Xiao had encountered so far.

    Of course, it was Yun Xiao who had pushed her to this point.

    ¡°Enter.¡±

    Even though it wasn¡¯t the first time, when that moment arrived, her once aloof and profound, otherworldly voice still carried a hint of tension.

    That soft voice sounded like a passionate call from a beauty, causing Yun Xiao¡¯s cheeks to flush. He thought to himself that since the Diva had <em>awakened</em>, her charm was irresistible.

    He stepped into the deep cavern.

    The passage was initially narrow, barely wide enough for a person, making the walk slightly cramped. After walking a few dozen steps, it suddenly opened up.

    Aheady a small grotto, frost covering the ground, with a pure white fleece nket spread out. On the nket sat a fairy with white hair and pink eyes, bending gracefully.

    She had long legs, her white hair spread out like snowkes. Her pair of pink eyes seemed to speak, crystal clear and transparent, lively like pink gemstones. Time had left no trace on her; she was a vibrant young woman. Ethereal and otherworldly, yet her gaze and the subtle desire between her pink and white lips betrayed a hint of yearning.

    Once, it was merely a quirky taste, but now, in the Grand Assembly Arena, Yun Xiao hade to realize that the Diva possessed an inner loneliness, burdened with responsibility and resilience, and a selfless nature that attracted him. Coupled with the enchanting atmosphere... Yun Xiao found it hard to remain as calm as before.

    After all, just moments ago, his intimate encounter with Zu Wei''s spirit had effectively ignited this ze.

    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯mte¡­¡±

    To quell his agitation, Yun Xiao spoke with his head bowed, trying to steady his breath and focus.

    But before he could finish his sentence, a cold, indifferent voice interrupted him.

    ¡°Indulging your spirit, you sure know how to y.¡±

    That brief remark carried not only coldness but also a strange sense of resentment.

    Yun Xiao could only respond with a hint of guilt, "I''m only doing what has to be done to save the Extreme Yin Star.¡±

    ¡°No need to exin!¡± The fairy with pink eyes on the snow-white fleece nket spoke with a slightly chilly voice. ¡°Yao Yao is innocent and pure. Don¡¯t bully her in this regard, and that applies in spirit too.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s innocent and pure?¡± Yun Xiao was about tough, but he quickly realized that if he did, Si Ji would lose her temper. He suppressed his smile, nodded, and said, ¡°Understood. I won¡¯t cross any lines.¡±

    Hearing his assurance, the chill of the cold cavern began to dissipate.

    ¡°Come here.¡±

    With her resentment gone, Yun Xiao stepped forward and stood beside the nket. He beheld her long snow-white hair and slender yet firm shoulders.

    ¡°Over the next few days in the Grand Assembly Arena, do you think you can still break through?¡± Si Ji propped herself up with both hands on the ground, slightly tilting her chin, her pink eyes coldly gazing at him.

    ¡°Yes, I can. This time, my first mission is to assist you in breaking through to be a Boundless Immortal, and then to focus on my own breakthrough,¡± Yun Xiao responded earnestly, choosing not to gaze upon her serene and lonely beauty.

    ¡°Your speed is even faster than Yao Yao¡¯s,¡± Si Ji remarked, clearly surprised and puzzled.

    How many secrets did this celestial ve hold?

    In truth, she wanted to understand. But because of their secret pact, she felt a sense of shame, often wanting to keep her distance from him.

    Yet, she also feared for his safety, worried it might disrupt her grand ns.

    Yun Xiao knew she was curious about him, so he didn''t hide it. He continued, ¡°I¡¯m afraid this time, I need a Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source.¡±

    ¡°You stole one from me, then asked Yu Ji for another, and now you need one more. What exactly do you intend to do with these Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources?¡± Si Ji asked, frowning.

    "Have you really not realized by now, or are you just pretending?"

    Yun Xiao calmly directed the tribtion power within him toward Si Ji. Even though it was feeble for her, as she controlled and meticulously examined it, her pupils began to dte.

    "Three Lives Samsara, Deca-Yin Frost Fiend..."

    Undoubtedly, her heart was in turmoil.

    "How is that possible..." She gasped for air, her pink eyes fluttering as she gazed at Yun Xiao.

    "Although my body is iplete, in terms of talent, I''m no worse than Yao Yao," Yun Xiao said, his voice lingering.

    "Perhaps even better than her," Si Ji replied deeply. She couldn''t help but look at Yun Xiao for a long time with that incredulous gaze.

    "Diva?" Yun Xiao, noticing the prolonged silence, reminded her. After all, he was still needed outside.

    "When I be a Boundless Immortal, I will ensure that you and Yao Yao achieve greatness," Si Ji''s resolve red up suddenly, her words earnest.

    "Mhm! You and I have nurtured each other, our hearts as clear as mirrors. Our secrets will remain forever sealed, known to no one. I swear it on my character." Yun Xiao made the promise once more, to ease her mind.

    After all, as the paragon of chastity in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, what she was doing now within the Grand Assembly Arena was truly explosive.

    If the Million Starlight Pce were to disy it, it would undoubtedly cause a massive earthquake across the entire Samsara Gxy, spreading for over 10,000 years.

    "Enough, it''s not the first time. I''m already used to it," Si Ji said calmly, asserting herself so Yun Xiao couldn''t manipte her.

    Yun Xiao thought this was for the best. Then, he wouldn''t have to deal with her crying like a little girl afterward.

    Si Ji remained silent. She lowered her head, her long hair cascading down, effectively allowing Yun Xiao to make his move.

    "So, about that Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source..."

    When Yun Xiao spoke, Si Ji then recalled the matter.

    She pressed her lips together and said, "I have only a few Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources left, just enough for me to achieve Boundlessness. The only surplus is a yang attribute Cmity Source, which you can''t use..."

    But she didn''t want to be stingy, so she was momentarily at a loss.

    "Why can''t I use the yang attribute Cmity Source?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Si Ji gave him a soft nce, a hint of pity in her eyes. "That Cmity Source can only be wielded by a man possessing strong yang energy, and you..."

 Chapter 898: Nine Lives Nine Deaths Yin-Yang Mandarin Ducks!

    "Yang attribute Cmity Source? Only men can use it?"

    Upon hearing this, Yun Xiao felt a pang of embarrassment. He was fully aware of his ownck, or notcking of manhood. But he absolutely couldn''t let Si Ji know that.

    Yun Xiao still hoped to quickly acquire more Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources through her.

    So he probed, "What would happen if I forcefully used it anyway?"

    The white-haired, snow-eyed Si Ji seemed reluctant to discuss the matter deeply and replied vaguely, "Your yang energy is insufficient, your inner nature too yin, your body has damaging orifices, and your vital essence leaks easily. Even if you have a heaven defying method to ascend and absorb a Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source, it''s hard for you to contain such masculine power. If you force its absorption, it will most likely go to waste."

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao naturally didn''t want to give up. "If this Cmity Source is useless to you and the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, then grant it to me. If I can''t absorb it, it''s my own fault."

    Before attending to his task, Yun Xiao insisted on obtaining that yang attribute Cmity Source, and Si Ji''s auspicious time was fleeting; they couldn''t afford to waste it...

    So, she showed a hint of displeasure but could only pout slightly and asked, "Are you sure? If it doesn''t work, you can''t ask me for another one."

    "I''m sure," Yun Xiao nodded."Alright then!" Si Ji, with a sigh of resignation, used her slender jade hands to take out two jade boxes from the crystal-clear Bag of Holding. Originally white and etched with snow patterns, the jade boxes had been transformed by the Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources inside.

    In her left hand, the white jade box now zed with nine fierce red mes, burning intensely. As soon as they appeared, the snow cave was engulfed in scorching heat, making them feel the rise in temperature.

    In her right hand, the white jade box burned with pink mes, a cold fire akin to the Deca-Yin Frost Fiend, bringing a chilling wave.

    Yun Xiao stood before the two jade boxes, one hot and one cold, like a sh of ice and fire. He noticed that within each jade box, shadows of mythical birds and beasts flickered fiercely. The intense mes and cold were released by these divine avians.

    However, Yun Xiao also observed a strong and powerful connection andplementarity between the two Cmity Sources, as if they were a natural pair, with intense flows of tribtion power between them.

    "Why are there two Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Si Ji held the two Cmity Sources in her hands, slowly bringing them closer. As their red and pink mes touched, the mes intertwined like entwined partners, melding seamlessly. The intense heat and biting cold of the snow cave vanished, reced by a lingering affection.

    "These Cmity Sources are a rare pair, known together as the Nine Lives Nine Deaths Yin-Yang Mandarin Ducks. Only the Nine Deaths Yin Mandarin Duck is useful to me," Si Ji said calmly.

    The Mandarin Duck Divine Birds, with yang being male and yin being female.

    "Oh, then you''re nning to give me the Nine Lives Yang Mandarin Duck?" Yun Xiao asked.

    He guessed the name, and it was probably urate.

    Si Ji had also brought out the Nine Deaths Yin Mandarin Duck, clearly because she was nning to absorb it after the session.

    "Mhm," Si Ji said, separating the Nine Lives Nine Deaths Yin-Yang Mandarin Duck Cmity Sources and handing the Nine Lives Yang Mandarin Duck Cmity Source to Yun Xiao.

    As the two Cmity Sources were separated, there was a sense of emotional rupture; the shadows of the two Mandarin Ducks emitted mournful cries, igniting fierce hot and cold mes that tried to entwine with each other.

    "Two Cmity Sources, still showing off their affection! Wow!" Yun Xiaoughed to ease the awkwardness, then directly ced the Nine Lives Yang Mandarin Duck Cmity Source into his Bag of Holding.

    He could feel that, despite the two Cmity Sources appearing as gentle birds, they were still Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources. Once angered, the scorching and chilling tribtion power they released was terrifying.

    "This pair of Cmity Sources is perfect for dual-cultivating couples. When fighting side by side, they can unleash triple the power..." Si Ji said casually.

    "Ah?" Yun Xiao coughed, saying, "Then using them for ourselves would be a bit wasteful."

    "What waste? These are mine! If I achieve Boundlessness, the Nine Deaths Yin Mandarin Duck tribtion power doesn''t require any perfection to be invincible in the Samsra Gxy!"

    As Si Ji spoke, she lowered her gaze to the pink me Cmity Source in her hand, the pink in her eyes reflecting the firelight.

    Her dreams, ambitions, responsibilities, and desire to protect all rested on this move. To defend her homnd and everything, she was willing to endure the humiliation that all women of the Harmony Divine Pce couldn''t tolerate!

    When her thoughts were most intense, shepletely suppressed her shame and said to Yun Xiao, "Why are you still standing there? Come on."

    This shout seemed a bit urgent. Those unaware of the truth might think she couldn''t bear loneliness.

    "Then... my apologies!"

    When Yun Xiao finished speaking, their power dynamic instantly shifted.

    The majestic Diva became like a pink and white rabbit on a fluffy nket, while Yun Xiao was like a fierce tiger, spreading his ferocious ws that blocked the sky and sun...

    Having gone through previous experiences, Yun Xiao was naturally adept this time. In contrast, Si Ji was like a new bride just days into marriage, even if she resisted mentally, she subconsciouslyplied.

    Inside the snow cave, snow danced around, the music was low and mellow, neither hurried nor slow, but more intimate.

    Under Yun Xiao''s careful treatment, the toxic spiritual yin energy within Si Ji found its breaking point, surging out like a cold wave storm, whipping Yun Xiao''s long hair and white robes.

    After surviving the cmity, Si Ji couldn''t help but shed light tears. Yun Xiao could only gently pat her back andfort her. "A physician''s heart is benevolent, and the patient has no choice. Your illness was severe, I provided the right medicine. As long as your heart is pure, you can escape suffering. Why speak of breaking the rules?"

    "I understand..." Si Ji was enveloped in the haze of release, her eyes slightly narrowed, with tear-filled sockets and trembling red lips, seemingly whispering these words.

    Yun Xiao leaned in closer and finally heard her clearly.

    She had said, "Don''t stop."

    "Alright." Yun Xiao silently vowed that saving a life was better than building a seven-story pagoda. Although Si Ji was beautiful, he would not take advantage of her vulnerability.

    He then gazed at the ce where the Snow Lineage Diva stored the Bag of Holding and said, "If we apply the medicine here as well, the effect will surely be better."

    "Apply the medicine!" Si Ji was already lost in the mist, her senses blurred. All she knew was that the medicine would cure her illness and allow her to ascend to be a Boundless Immortal...

    "As you wish¡­" Yun Xiao didn''t know why he suggested adding more medicine. Perhaps it was the stirring of his encounter with Zu Wei igniting his passionate heart, or maybe the Snow Lineage Diva was too enchanting at that moment, or simply the atmosphere influenced him.

    But undeniably, after adding the medicine, the effect would greatly increase, bringing Si Ji closer to burning away the deadly toxins within her body.

    This act of saving her was noble, but the only side effect was likely Yun Xiao''s own difort.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Before it was fine, why this time are you indulging so much in her beauty?"

    Perhaps this echoed an old saying. If you often walked by the river, your shoes would get wet.

    Before, Yun Xiao''s shoes remained dry, maybe because there were no fish in the river. Now that there were fish, he couldn''t help but be captivated and lost himself.

    However, Yun Xiao was someone who could maintain his boundaries. Surrounded by beauties, he wouldn''t be swayed by just a few fish.

    In the end, he resisted the allure of the deadly poison.

    Meanwhile, the Snow Lineage Diva finally reached her peak moment. Instead of sitting cross-legged, she chose a prone position, swallowed the Nine Deaths Yin Mandarin Duck Cmity Source, and began to refine and undergo the tribtion right there on the fluffy nket.

    This was normal. Previously, she had also chosen to undergo the tribtion immediately after the toxic spiritual yin energy had significantly dissipated. This was when she was at her best, often allowing her to surge through and gain anotheryer of tribtion power!

    With the addition of the Nine Deaths Yin Mandarin Duck Cmity Source, she was drawing ever closer to the 16 cmities required to be a Boundless Immortal<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 899: Nine Waves of Sword Thrusts!

    Si Ji''s body ignited with fierce pink mes. Pink, feather-like shadows danced across her form, rendering her unbearably cold. The Nine Lives Nine Deaths Yin-Yang Mandarin Ducks symbolized a tribtion of love spanning nine lifetimes. Once the Yin Mandarin Duck was separated from the Yang Mandarin Duck, a residue of resentment surged forth, unleashing a destructive force of nine deaths.

    In terms of lethality, this Cmity Source surpassed even the Yang Mandarin Duck in Yun Xiao¡¯s possession.

    Seeing Si Ji about to ovee the tribtion, Yun Xiao prepared to withdraw afterpleting his part.

    ¡°The Nine Deaths Yin Mandarin Duck''s tribtion energy will merge with toxic spiritual yin energy. I still need your help reducing it. Our session still isn''t over yet. Continue,¡± Si Ji said, straining to even speak as she endured the tribtion.

    ¡°No problem." Yun Xiao gazed at the Snow Lineage Diva lying before him, her contours a masterpiece of human artistry.

    He had regained hisposure, remaining calm. Yet, his <em>sword</em> stood resolute like a pine amidst ice and snow, refusing to bow to the biting cold.

    ¡°You breakthrough, and I¡¯ll cultivate as well," Yun Xiao said, trying to distract himself. He took out some Heavenly Dao Sariras and Origin Orbs, merging them into his Dantian as he channeled his tribtion power.

    Both Yun Xiao and Si Ji were formidable talents, engaging in life-saving <em>therapy</em> while also breaking through.

    In the case of thetter, Yun Xiao was only in the Late Second Baptism Realm, making the task considerably easier.¡°I''ve stacked up quite a bit of resources this time around. With the protection fees on top of that, it should be more than enough," Yun Xiao mused.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s cultivation progressed even more smoothly than Si JI¡¯s. With resources in ce, he effortlessly broke through two stages.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Establishment Stage of the Second Baptism Realm!¡±

    Reaching the Establishment realm signified thepletion of a celestial baptism. At this juncture, most cultivators would wait, consolidating their tribtion power before absorbing another Cmity Source to break through to the next level.

    However, Yun Xiao was a true adventurer.

    ¡°The Southern Divine Dragon Realm is assembling their army. I don¡¯t have the luxury of time. I might as well go for it!¡±

    Feng Yao and Wan Ji''s seven daughters were currently taking his ce, swatting down the <em>flies</em> being drawn to the Extreme Yin Star.

    Defending wasn''t difficult, but forcefully enlisting new recruits was no easy task.

    Yun Xiao fearedplications might arise, and that it would affect their momentum.

    So, he had to return as soon as possible!

    Yun Xiao freed a hand and opened the white jade box containing the Nine Lives Yang Mandarin Duck Cmity Source.

    Upon opening, a divine bird aze with crimson mes illuminated the snow cave, emanating immense heat that melted the surrounding ice and snow.

    ¡°Don¡¯t burn the Snow Lineage Diva and hinder her tribtion!¡± With this thought, Yun Xiao acted with reckless courage, directly swallowing the Yang Mandarin Duck.

    He immediately felt he''d eaten moltenva, his throat and entire body burning up with unbearable heat.

    However, Yun Xiao had experience dealing with Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources. Such a terrifying Cmity Source, when first ingested, certainly possessed its strongest destructive power.

    ¡°Hold on!¡± Yun Xiao took a deep breath, focusing all his attention inward. In his Dantian, the Yang Mandarin Duck spread its wings like a phoenix, and endless tribtion mes swept over his entire body.

    Yun Xiao himself began to burn, covered inyers of crimson feathers, his entire being emitting thick smoke as the surrounding snow walls melted away.

    Yun Xiao was seated, and Si Ji was lying prone. One was hot, the other was cold.

    For a moment, the Yin-Yang Mandarin Ducks appeared to resonate¡­

    ¡°Tribtion, tribtion.¡± Yun Xiao chose to forget everything around him, concentrating solely on oveing the Yang Mandarin Duck. The scorching yang energy coursed through his body, burning him red-hot like an iron sword, sweat pouring from his head.

    ¡°This Cmity Source is even more ferocious than I imagined. Why? Last time I absorbed the Deca-Yin Frost Fiend Cmity Source, it wasn¡¯t this ruthless!¡±

    Yun Xiao felt like he''d been plunged into the core of the sun. His hair began to burn, his entire being transforming into a fire god, with a pair of crimson feathered wings sprouting from his back!

    ¡°It¡¯s over. If this continues, I¡¯ll burn away! I need to find a way to cool down¡­¡± Yun Xiao gasped, mes shooting from his throat.

    This burning sensation made his brain boil. In this state, it wasn¡¯t just an empty void in his mind¡ªit was as if his brain was melting.

    His thoughts and reason were all burned to charcoal, leaving his entire being with only one thought. He needed to cool down.

    Then, Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes, burning like two fierce suns, looked down and saw salvation¡ªa divine bird covered in icy pink mes.

    Si Ji''s tribtion had been going smoothly. But at that moment, it seemed she was suffering a simr fate. She was shivering from the cold, her body pale, looking even worse off than Yun Xiao. She was groggy, mumbling incoherently to herself as she struggled desperately for life.

    ¡°Boundless Immortal, Boundless¡­¡± Si Ji whispered to herself. She didn¡¯t know why she had failed. She was so cold, only wanting to approach the fierce sun to melt herself.

    ¡°Diva!¡± Yun Xiao waspletely engulfed in mes!

    His entire world was left with only this pink bird. It was everything, so perfect. It was the destination of all things, an eternal harbor.

    The Nine Lives Nive Deaths Yin-Yang Mandarin Ducks possessed an irresistible attraction to each other!

    They were the mostplementary forces among the Cmity Sources; only through merging could there be peace.

    So, Yun Xiao was like a helpless sailboat in a raging storm. As the tribtion power filled his entire body, he became the embodiment of the Nine Lives Yang Mandarin Duck!

    Yun Xiao''s hand had stopped, but his <em>root of sin</em> broke through!

    ¡°Diva¡­¡±

    By the time Yun Xiao regained a semnce of consciousness, he''d already <em>altered</em> the heavens and earth.

    "Ahh¡­! Ahhh¡­! Ahhh~!"

    Si Ji furrowed her brows, moaning in deep ecstasy... It was as if she''d taken a fresh breath of air after almost drowning, an indescribable expression on her face¡ªfear, obsession, confusion, bewilderment, and madness¡­ and more.

    ¡°Your hand¡­¡± Si Ji whispered.

    ¡°Don''t worry, it¡¯s just swollen from all the cold and heat¡­!" Yun Xiao gritted his teeth. Then, he began to save both their lives.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    The area shrouded in snow mist naturally obscured any watching eyes. But something had happened¡ªthe ground of the surrounding valley began to shake violently, as if the earth was under continuous assault, cracking apart!

    Crimson and pink tribtion mes swept the surroundings, melting the snowstorms around the valley.

    The disturbance was immense!

    ¡°Is that celestial ve practicing a sword technique that strikes the earth?¡± someone whispered in the Million Starlight Pce.

    The gazes of the spectators followed Yun Xiao to this ce, only to lose sight of him, clearly guessing he was pulling ast-minute gambit.

    Time continued to pass, and before long a whole day went by!

    On the Extreme Yin Star, countless <em>flies</em> caught the scent and were captured by the Carefree Windy Clouds faction.

    And on the far side of the Extreme Yin Star, Yun Xiao practiced thrusting his sword in nine waves throughout the entire day, pausing only briefly between each, showing his determination.

    The number nine naturally resonated with the Nine Lives Nine Deaths Yin-Yang Mandarin Ducks. Perhaps only in this way could Yun Xiao survive the brink of life and death and truly ovee this tribtion!

    After the nine waves of sword thrusts ended, the frozen valley finally returned to tranquility¡­

    There was blood mist everywhere, outsiders naturally could not fathom the secrets of this snowstorm.

    However, a graceful figure with flowing dark green hair stood near the depths of the valley, lingering for a long, long time.

    Finally, once peace was restored, she exhaled a breath of murky air, her face slightly flushed, and trembled as she spoke, ¡°No wonder Si Ji likes him so much. This guy¡­ he''s a real monster!¡±

 Chapter 900: The Truth Comes Out!

    After the fierce tremor had quieted, all settled into peace. Only the snow on the walls, melted by the heat, turned into crystal-clear droplets, sliding down the pure white, curved icicles to the ground.

    The entire snow cave was filled with pink-hued hot mist and rich fragrance. After countless shes, the scorching heat and icy cold had fully merged, bing warmth.

    On the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, such a warm, cozy, andzy enclosed space existed only here. Even Yun Xiao, in his final moments, sank into a deep sleep within thisfortable environment.

    This sleep was deep and rxing, a release of overwhelming pressure, like a pleasant slumber on a white cloud.

    "Diva..."

    After an unknown amount of time, Yun Xiao awakened like a child amidst murmurs. His hands instinctively reached out before him but grasped nothing, empty-handed.

    "Ah!" He jolted awake, sitting up abruptly. His long hair was disheveled, and his tribtion power surged dramatically, pressing fiercely on his Dantian. Yet, his body appeared somewhat tired.

    He paid no attention to himself, instead swiftly scanning his surroundings. Soon, his pupils constricted as he fixed his gaze on a spot within the snow cave.

    There stood arge pink-white egg. Its surface seemed crafted from pink-white snake scales, enveloped in celestial mist, as if it held an unparalleled celestial treasure.But Yun Xiao knew this was no celestial treasure.

    "This snake scale egg is the Snow Lineage Diva..."

    As for why this beautiful woman with white hair and pink eyes had be a snake scale egg brimming with celestial aura, Yun Xiao understood. With his <em>assistance</em>, she had undergone a metamorphosis, truly vaporizing all toxic spiritual yin energy in one step.

    So, she had chosen to swallow all the remaining Cmity Sources at once, directly aiming to be a Boundless Immortal!

    "She dares to take such a risk; she must be confident. And her confidence..."

    Clearly, her confidence stemmed from Yun Xiao''s relentless push through nine lives and deaths, driving her into insanity and leading to nine consecutive frantic fate shifts!

    All of thispletely proved that whether or not there was a root of sin didn''t matter to the Snow Lineage Diva.

    Yun Xiao had elerated her process, thoroughly neutralizing the toxic spiritual yin energy in one go, requiring no gradual steps, only hysteria!

    "When she breaks the egg and emerges, she will undoubtedly be a Boundless Immortal."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao already felt that within the snake scale egg, Boundless Light had been born. This kind of power was familiar to him, and much stronger than his own power.

    Besides Boundless Light, there were as many as 16 different kinds of tribtion power. Even if she had not released them, Yun Xiao felt a suffocating sensation within this snow cave.

    He was like a rabbit, with a slumbering ancient giant beast crawling nearby.

    "This is really the end..."

    After the frenzy, Yun Xiao calmed down, appearing as serene as a Buddha. Looking at the majestic snake scale egg before him, sweat broke out on his forehead.

    "At that turning point, I changed my <em>therapy tool</em>. Even if her back was turned on me, she would immediately know..."

    Something like this, the person involved couldn''t have not noticed, right?

    In just a few moves, Si Ji understood everything!

    Was Yun Xiao a celestial ve whose root of sin was purified? She was clearer of this fact than anyone else.

    She had no time to me Feng Yao for deceiving her!

    To be honest, at first, when Yun Xiao''s gaze met her ncing back, he felt a bit fearful!

    At the moment when scorching fire and ice shed, Si Ji felt like she was being struck by lightning. When she suddenly turned her head, her big pink eyes red back at him in disbelief.

    In her eyes, Yun Xiao read shock, disbelief, overwhelming anger, deadly shame, and a mad desire to kill!

    Tears streamed from her eyes, her mouth open wide, shouting the word <em>die</em> hysterically.

    In that instant, Yun Xiao deeply realized that when things had already reached their natural conclusion, throwing the responsibility onto the Cmity Sources and exining his involuntary actions was useless!

    When even a slight dy would have him torn apart by her, Yun Xiao instinctively knew the only path to survival. That was... to use every ounce of his strength! He would fight to the death!

    Back then, Yun Xiao had just been ying around. Yet, Thunder Emissary Cao was repeating things like how her life had not been wasted.

    This time around, Si Ji would truly <em>waste </em>him if he''d given her the slightest opening. So, how could he afford to y around? He would fight like his life depended on it!

    This was exactly why the deep valley snow cave triggered an earthquake. Yun Xiao tossed out Blue Star and Red Moon, risking it all lest he die in vain. Speed, power, technique¡­ he utilized everything to the fullest!

    Yun Xiao was not Si Ji, and didn''t know how ferocious this life-preserving counterattack was. In any case, he had closed his eyes waiting to die, treating himself like a sacrificial bull.

    Miraculously, the miracle truly urred.

    He could distinctly feel her anger and murderous intent, all crushed by his relentless assault, leading to aplete copse of her defenses.

    Yet, Yun Xiao still feared that if she reacted even slightly, she would rip his head out of his body with a swift motion.

    So, he dared not rest,unching wave after wave of attacks. Originally, he could have dominated the battle against the likes of Zhao Xuanran and Lil Xi. But now, to save his life, he pushed the Snow Lineage Diva to the death.

    He didn¡¯t know what ultimately happened after helping Si Ji achieve <em>nirvana</em> nine times. But in the end, he was utterly exhausted, his body drained of all energy and blood, and he fainted.

    In his final moments before unconsciousness, Yun Xiao saw Si Jipletely slumped over... He had no idea what became of her!

    Now, when Yun Xiao awoke, he was still alive, while she had be a snake scale egg. It was vast and magnificent, at least she hadn¡¯t killed him.

    Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help but p his forehead and gritted his teeth, saying, "Diva, this really isn¡¯t my fault. It was those two Cmity Sources. You could feel it too..."

    At this point, he realized she wouldn¡¯t listen to this exnation. After all, in her eyes, he was nothing but a celestial ve.

    "Bute to think of it, if you hadn¡¯t met me the first time we met, you would already be dead now."

    After all, Yun Xiao was her savior.

    But even this couldn¡¯t alleviate Yun Xiao¡¯s headache. He clearly remembered the first nce Si Ji gave him when she turned around¡ªso furious it felt like she could kill him a million times over.

    "Never mind. I¡¯ll take the me for this."

    After much contemtion, Yun Xiao didn¡¯t want to shirk responsibility. All he could do was prepare for her to erase him once she awoke.

    "Judging by her current state, it might take two or three days for her to fully transform into a Boundless Immortal..."

    The Grand Assembly Arena had resources, opponents, and steps to climb. For Yun Xiao, two or three days could bring significant changes.

    "Instead of apologizing more, I should first enhance my life-saving abilities."

    Thinking of this, and with Feng Yao having called him several times outside, Yun Xiao didn¡¯t linger.

    "Hey. I''ll be taking my leave now¡­" Yun Xiao said before turning around.

    After walking a few steps, his pace slowed, his expression conflicted. He turned back to look at the snake scale egg and gritted his teeth.

    "Deceiving you with the identity of a celestial ve was out of my desperation. I never intended to descend into the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. If I hadn''t disguised myself as a ve, I might have lost my life... When I forged my identity, I never thought I would be entangled with you. But since the mistake has been made, I admit my fault.

    "If you awaken and still seek to settle our grievances, I will ept it calmly. If you need a refuge, I will take full responsibility.

    "Lastly, I want to say that the shackles ced by your two founders on the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm are too many, causing harm to both your people and yourselves. You are a brave and responsible leader, and now the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm faces a life-and-death turning point. You have the power to change everything, including your own self-awareness."

    After delivering this lengthy speech, Yun Xiao dared not linger. He exited the snow cave, removed the small ck beast trapped in the crevice, and strode away confidently.

    Inside the snow cave, droplets of crystal-clear water seeped from the snake scale egg, slowly trickling downward.

    It was unclear whether they were water droplets or something else.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    "Yun Xiao!"

    Yun Xiao was about to leave the snowy, mist-shrouded valley when a call from behind startled him.

    He turned around and saw a graceful, mature beauty standing amidst the storm. Her flowing dark green hair billowed in the snow, adding to her alluring charm.

    "Bro! This one! She''s much better!" Red Moon saw her and his eyes lit up. He had no feelings for Si Ji, but seeing Sea Lineage Diva Wan Ji made him particrly excited.

    As for the reason, it was naturally because Wan Ji was a mother...

    "Diva." Yun Xiao kept hisposure as he pressed down the small ck beast, then stood as straight as possible and bowed to Wan Ji.

    Wan Ji floated gracefully before him, her face bearing a strange smile, her eyes gazing mysteriously at Yun Xiao amidst the snow mist.

    ¡°Since you''re here, you must have something to t¡ª¡±

    Before Yun Xiao could finish his sentence, Wan Ji interrupted him with a gentle voice, ¡°You need to go over to where the children are and wash off the scent of Si Ji from your body. It¡¯s been wafting for dozens of miles... Those who don¡¯t know might think you¡¯ve smeared her <em>sweat</em> all over yourself.¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Yun Xiao felt extremely embarrassed and didn¡¯t know what to say.

    The Sea Lineage Diva knew he wasn¡¯t a celestial ve; after all, she had seen everything.

    Of course, he was only embarrassed for a moment. With a thick skin, all he needed was to use the Prison Warden Sigil to cleanse himself, and he would feel refreshed immediately.

    ¡°That¡¯s better.¡± Wan Ji gave him a reproachful nce before extending her jade hand. Like a mother, she straightened the cor of his white clothes, then patted Yun Xiao¡¯s chest gently, her voice soothing, ¡°Eat more meat. You¡¯ve lost weight, and Si Ji really is harsh with the children.¡±

    ¡°Ahem¡­¡± Hearing this, Yun Xiao realized she must have heard what happened nearby, possibly even visited the snow cave, seeing everything firsthand.

    With that, Yun Xiao decided to stop pretending. Suddenly, he grabbed Wan Ji¡¯s hand, cing it in his palm, and stared into her eyes. ¡°You need to understand, in that situation, I was the conqueror.¡±

    ¡°Let go.¡± Wan Ji looked at him with a smiling gaze.

    ¡°I¡¯m not letting go.¡± Yun Xiao not only held on but moved closer, looking down upon her.

    ¡°You naughty boy, don¡¯t mess around. I¡¯m different from Si Ji; I¡¯m the mother of hundreds of children,¡± Wan Ji said, biting her lip in resignation.

    ¡°Yes¡­¡± Yun Xiao nodded solemnly. ¡°Yes, a mother is warmer and better at taking care of people.¡±

    ¡°Stop!¡± Wan Ji had intended to tease him, but his words made her blush. She quickly withdrew her hand, ring at him. ¡°Hurry and go. Feng Yao has takenmand of the army of 1,000 prodigies and is about to engage in a battle with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s alliance.¡±<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 901: A Snake Charmer!

    "An army of 1,000 prodigies..."

    One must admit, in the Samsara Gxy, among the countless trillions of cultivators, those who could enter the Grand Assembly Arena were indeed super geniuses¡ªone in 100,000,000.

    Their leaders, like the Young Dragon Lord and Zu Wei, were the brightest jewels in the crown¡ªfuture supreme rulers capable of vanquishing myriad lives with a single flip of the wrist.

    "Diva, now you should fully trust my abilities, right?" Yun Xiao said.

    "Indeed. From the very beginning, I believed that the supreme genius of the Samsara Gxy was none other than you," Wan Ji smiled.

    "When was that from, the start?" Yun Xiao asked with a grin.

    "The day I uncovered you," Wan Ji replied cheerfully.

    "Hmm..."

    Could she have had such faith in him so early?Clearly, aside from Yu Ji''s Ice Spirit Eye, the strongest in identifying heroes was this Sea Lineage Diva.

    As for the Diva with the weakest foresight, it was even more obvious. Naturally, it was Si Ji, whoy on the ground, bewildered when the sky was stolen and day was reced.

    "Alright then!" Yun Xiao took a deep breath, his gaze passing over Wan Ji, looking toward the distance behind her.

    There stood several tombstones, resting those who had fought from the Harmony Divine Pce during past Grand Assemblies of Myriad Sects.

    Wan Ji had some daughters, who had also perished here forever.

    So Yun Xiao could see that she was not only weary of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects itself but also filled with hatred towards it.

    "I will create the history for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, bestowing your people its most glorious era in the history of the Samsara Gxy," Yun Xiao dered with fervent eyes.

    "You already have." Wan Ji''s beautiful eyes fluttered. "In the history of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, all factions vied against each other. There has never been such arge-scale war with over 1,000 geniuses. Your ability to gather such a great force has already created history for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    "That''s not enough." Yun Xiao shook his head. "Gathering is not the scale; winning is what counts."

    "Winning..." Wan Ji''s expression tightened slightly. She couldn''t even imagine it herself. She murmured, "Given the current situation, if your Carefree Windy Clouds faction truly wins, then there will be no army in the Grand Assembly Arena that can stop you."

    In short, this was almost a decisive victory!

    Yun Xiao had rallied the authority of the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, while the Southern Divine Dragon Realm had also rallied a group of people.

    With their own charisma, they couldn''t muster a force of 2,000 geniuses.

    "Our conflict with them is no longer the Grand Assembly Arena''s original script of factions vying for dominance. It has be a battle of good versus evil affecting the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River. Almost everyone has to choose a side, and the oue of this battle will determine whether we return to the original script of factional rivalry," said Wan Ji with a sigh.

    Clearly, it was Yun Xiao who facilitated the formation of this unprecedented situation.

    Under extreme disadvantage, Yun Xiao had humiliated the Young Dragon Consort, taken down the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s rightful line, and roped in the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, igniting a world war among the geniuses!

    "Who is good and who is evil?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "Originally, we were certainly evil, but now you''ve brought in the most orthodox and profound founding sects of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. We can''t be considered evil anymore," Wan Ji replied.

    Yun Xiao sighed deeply. "In my opinion, whoever wins is good, and whoever loses is evil. Not only evil, but also utterly defeated, their names disgraced for eternity."

    "You''re so young yet possess such insight. Truly outstanding," Wan Ji admired.

    Yun Xiao nodded. Then, he pointed in the distance. "I''ll be going where I''m needed."

    There, the dragons were leaderless!

    "Go ahead!" Wan Ji nodded.

    Yun Xiao said no more and soared upward.

    "They''re all watching you..." Wan Ji turned back, gazing at the ice and snow-covered tombstones in the distant valley, tears welling in her eyes.

    The Grand Assembly Arena of Myriad Sects seldom opened, so the deceased here were alone.

    More terrifying than loneliness was failure¡ªthe constant loss of newrades.

    Most likely, it would be her daughters.

    So, no one in the Sea Lineage Diva desired more to end the chaotic state of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm in the Samsara Gxy than she did!

    "I don''t seek to be invincible in the world. I only wish to establish a normal sect in the Heavenly Deity Alliance, to ensure that every person in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is no longer twisted, solitary, or arrogant, and to ensure that our descendants are healthy in body and mind..."

    Wan Ji had originally thought that all hope rested on Feng Yao. But now, it seemed hopey in a <em>celestial ve</em>.

    Though it was hard to fathom, she suddenly felt that the deadlock of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm could only be broken by a man.

    "The Second Founder of the Harmony Divine Pce established eternal bindings. They might have been well-intentioned, but they couldn''t have foreseen the plight of their descendants. The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm has shed too much blood and life for the sake of the word <em>female</em>. An invincible genius appearing as a celestial ve¡ªperhaps he is the one sent by heaven to save us..."

    The more Wan Ji thought, the more excited she became. She truly saw the dawn of hope; that young man was dazzling.

    Once, she had adopted the hatred of men as her motto. But when such a lovely yet violent, handsome, brave, and wise boy appeared, she experienced a different feeling¡ªadmiration and awe!

    With a role model like him among men, at her age, how could she still harbor hatred?

    Yun Xiao had brought her more than a change of attitude; he was like a ray of light, illuminating the dark and gloomy Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and shining into the hearts of many.

    "It''s time for a change. I wonder what Yu Ji and Si Ji are thinking?"

    Anyway, she had already prepared herself to defy the Second Founder of the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "Yu Ji is the most traditional at her core and the most devoted to the Second Founder of Harmony Divine Pce. She''s quite difficult, and as for Si Ji..."

    Wan Ji turned back, gazing into the deepest part of the valley, recalling the night she entered the snow cave and watched silently.

    "That girl has experienced nirvana nine times in a row; from now on, she''ll probably just keep talking tough."

    What did that feeling really mean?

    Wan Ji''s body tensed slightly as she sank into deep contemtion.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    "With the addition of the Nine Lives Yang Mandarin Duck, I''ve reached the Third Baptism Realm¡­"

    When Yun Xiao soared, he could fully feel his power undergoing a tremendous metamorphosis!

    This wave of growth was defying the heavens.

    "This is thanks to the Snow Lineage Diva, who forged it for me with the Nine Deaths Yin Mandarin Duck¡­"

    Nine lives, nine deaths! Looking back, it had all started with a strategic advantage. After the first leap over the peak, Yun Xiao had shifted into eight other forms, each one executed with wless mastery!

    He had fully unleashed the potential of the Yin-Yang Mandarin Ducks Cmity Sources.

    In this regard, the noble and dignified Si JI was instead a timid novice. She was like a small boat bearing Yun Xiao''s tsunami, shedding countless tears and water without knowing.

    "White hair, powdery eyes, and a long snake tail¡ªtruly impressive."

    Yun Xiao was about to return to the battlefield, still savoring the moment.

    There was no way around it; that snake tail was indeed rare in the world. When she lost focus, it would naturally change. Though it was a Divine Spring Tail, it also allowed Yun Xiao to act as a snake charmer.

    "That celestial ve has arrived!"

    Yun Xiao had just returned to the battlefield with a heroic presence. But before he could enter the stage, whispers immediately pulled him back to reality.

    Looking around, the sky above the Extreme Yin Star was indeed filled with over 1,000 prodigies from various Heavenly Monarch sects. Among them, 500 were admirers of Zu Wei, none of whom had truly met Yun Xiao yet!

    Each disdainful call of <em>celestial ve</em> highlighted the limitations of Personal Pledges. In the path of cultivation, the hardest part was getting others to fight desperately for you, especially within a short time.

    So, Yun Xiao did not dare to expect that they would immediately and wholeheartedly fight for his Carefree Windy Clouds faction!

    Even so, over 1,000 elegantly dressed, lofty, one-in-a-hundred-million geniuses gathered together, creating a sea of celestial mist. The scene was truly spectacr!

    "Lil Yun!" Feng Yao, d in a tight ck and red armored battle dress that entuated her otherworldly figure, with ck hair and dragon horns, exuded a mesmerizing charm. Wherever she went, she was the center of attention.

    She stepped forward, partly seeking praise, and lightly hummed, "Not bad, right? To avoid disturbing your cultivation, I punished these 500 neers and collected their Personal Pledges first."

    "Not bad, not bad, really good," Yun Xiao praised.

    Whether the Personal Pledges were on himself or on her, it made no difference.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "By the way, you''ve been gone for so long. I kept calling but you didn''t respond. What exactly were you doing?" Feng Yao looked suspicious, even stepping forward to secretly sniff his scent.

    "As I said, I was seriously cultivating," Yun Xiao replied with a straight face.

    "Before, you were full of vitality. But now, you seem a bit drained?" Feng Yao didn''t detect any unusual scent but still felt something was off.

    "I can only say the side effects of that Cmity Source were quite intense." After speaking, Yun Xiao red at her. "Why are you checking so much anyway?"

    "Tch." Feng Yao gave him a cold look. She decided to stop while she was ahead and pursed her lips. "I brought the people for you, but the problem is they aren''t very obedient. I can''t handle them."

    "Fine, leave it to me."

    Returning to business, Yun Xiao became serious.

 Chapter 902: Parasitic Sword Embryo!

    Among the 1,000 prodigies, Bai Lu and herpanions exhibited the highest loyalty. In contrast, the 100 or so in Mu Zixiao¡¯s faction feared Yun Xiao, while thetest 500 neers were the most disgruntled. They had never witnessed Yun Xiao¡¯s brilliance and each harbored a touch of arrogance and defiance.

    ¡°Are there any strong ones?¡± Yun Xiao asked Hai Qing and her sisters.

    Hai Qing felt a bit embarrassed. ¡°A few in the Perfect stage of the Fourth Baptism Realm came, but we couldn¡¯t catch them and they slipped away. If those escapees hadn¡¯t leaked the information, we might have captured more.¡±

    Hai Mo added, ¡°The current 500 neers are mostly at or below the Late stage of the Fourth Baptism Realm, with manying from ordinary Heavenly Monarch sects who admire Zu Wei.¡±

    Yun Xiao nced at Zu Wei. She was simr to Shen Nanyin¡ªretaining some free will and resenting Yun Xiao, yet unable to oppose him.

    Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu stood by her side. Freshly castrated by her side, they had pale, gloomy faces, on the verge of tears but unable to cry.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, stop struggling. They¡¯d rather bow out than lend you an ounce of strength.¡± Mu Zixiao shook his head. He dared not anger Yun Xiao further, but he also didn¡¯t want him to have it easy. He couldn¡¯t help but speak, aiming to undermine him.

    ¡°These people are just ordinary Heavenly Monarch sect disciples. They have no grand ambitions or pursuits. Expecting them to fight giants like the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Elysian Immortal Pce is truly na?ve,¡± Mu Zhilu said through clenched teeth.

    Though meant to undermine Yun Xiao, their words couldn¡¯t be too brazen. They spoke softly, fearing Yun Xiao would kill them.Yun Xiao was getting more terrifying! He couldn¡¯t kill them all before the 100 or so of them were eliminated. But he could take out the two of them.

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Yun Xiao smiled and soared into the air, positioning himself before the 500 neers.

    ¡°You vile castrated dog, release Zu Wei!¡±

    ¡°You dare treat the disciples of the Ancestral Land like that!? You''ve even killed the Nine Yin Soul Sea''s genius Meng Huan! You¡¯re doomed!¡±

    ¡°The Harmony Divine Pce will perish because of you!¡±

    In an instant, the neers were stirred to fury. As long as someone initiated, the mor of insults surged.

    This scene struck Feng Yao, Hai Qing, and the others.

    It seemed that before the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s army descended, it was already a feat that these people hadn¡¯t turned against them.

    After all, as long as they weren¡¯t afraid of being eliminated, they feared nothing!

    ¡°Too naive, you cowardly eunuch!¡± A burly man with a full beard blended into the crowd. Taking advantage of the chaos, he couldn¡¯t help but curse more harshly.

    His Personal Pledge was given to Feng Yao. Yet, it did nothing to diminish his disdain for Yun Xiao.

    The crowd''s sense of superiority stemmedrgely from one belief.

    "You may be strong, but youck <em>manhood</em>¡ªwe have it!"

    Yun Xiao stood alone against these 500 arrogant prodigies, as if facing an endless ocean, yet he remained calm and unruffled.

    "Stop pretending to be cool. You must be fuming inside, you cowardly eunuch!" The burly man, blending into the rear of the crowd, muttered loudly. Although only those nearby could hear him, his arrogance was palpable, exuding a sense of triumph and bravado.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao''s Third Baptism Realm tribtion surged through his body, converging at his fingertips!

    <em>HUM! </em>At his fingertips, the sharp edge of sword energy roiled, gradually stirring up a storm. With a buzzing sound, it condensed into an azure sphere!

    As the sphere of sword energy expanded, the faint image of an embryo became visible within it. The embryo,posed of sword energy and intricate structures, was vivid and lifelike, almost real.

    When the sphere appeared, almost all the disciples present remained unfazed. Only Hai Qing covered her mouth, her beautiful eyes wide with shock and disbelief.

    "Hai Qing, what''s wrong?" Hai Ying noticed her odd reaction.

    "Yin Sword... Yin Sword Embryo!" Hai Qing stammered.

    "What?"

    All of Wan Ji''s seven daughters were stunned. They had already admired Yun Xiao, but now their admiration ran deep to their very bones.

    In contrast, the others still couldn¡¯t grasp the significance of Yun Xiao¡¯s seemingly magical maneuver.

    It appeared to have little to no power at all!

    While the 500 neers continued their mockery and insults, Yun Xiao extended a hand. The azure sphere in his hand split into 500!

    Each of the 500 spheres, each containing a Yin Sword Embryo, dispersed before Yun Xiao¡¯s eyes, each one as small as a raindrop.

    Even so, the embryos formed of sword energy within remained clear, almost indistinguishable from the real thing.

    "What¡¯s the matter? We call you a dead eunuch, and you¡¯re upset enough to spit on us?" The burly man, hiding at the very back, scornfully shouted. Seeing a few girls nce his way, his confidence surged. He puffed out his chest and continued his tirade without pause.

    The crowd still jeered at Yun Xiao.

    "Human nature is just like that. He just doesn¡¯t get it, right?" Mu Zixiao whispered to Zu Wei.

    He sought Zu Wei¡¯s approval, but Zu Wei fixed her gaze firmly on Yun Xiao, not listening to a single word he said.

    Mu Zixiao felt even more aggrieved. He wished Yun Xiao would meet a tragic end.

    "Heh heh..." He and his brother continued to sneer inwardly.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao manipted the 500 spheres, each the size of a raindrop, and brought them directly above the heads of the 500 neers!

    "Haha, this little eunuch really thinks he can kill us with his spit?" The burly man couldn''t help but scoff.

    As heughed, those azure raindrops suddenly descended, mming into his mouth and entering his body with a gurgling sound.

    "Hmm? It''s a bit sweet?" The man was initially stunned, then began tough again.

    He was about to continue insulting Yun Xiao, but there was suddenly a sharp pain in his belly! The pain was terrifying! He widened his eyes in fear and quickly used his spirit to peer inward!

    Seeing was believing, and what he saw shocked him!

    That single azure raindrop appeared above his Dantian, seemingly taking root there. It was anchored there, absorbing his tribtion power!

    The Yin Sword Embryo pierced his Dantian, attaching to the inner wall like a real embryo, using the Dantian as its <em>womb</em> to begin its development and growth!

    Thoughposed of sword energy, the embryo was incredibly lifelike, resembling a true living being.

    "What is this...!!" As the burly man cried out in horror, many around him reacted the same way, faces wide with shock and disbelief.

    Starting with them, more and more people screamed, clearly all 500 neers had been hit!

    After all, they had stood still, neither dodging nor blocking, allowing those unassuming raindrops to enter their bodies.

    "Ahhh!"

    Such terrifying events left them dumbfounded.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao''s move was akin to impregnating all 500 neers!

    Witnessing this scene, Hai Qing was exhrated and exined, "The Yin Sword Embryo is a parasitic entity of tribtion power. It anchors itself to the inner wall of the target''s Dantian. Destroying it will destroy the Dantian and trigger self-destruction!

    "But if you don''t destroy it, it will continue to consume your tribtion power, growing stronger until it bursts out of the Dantian...

    "This is the most powerful sword technique of our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, left behind by the Second Founder of the Harmony Divine Pce. It is the Samsara Gxy''s strongest <em>Internal</em> Killing Sword!"

    The so-called <em>Internal</em> Killing Sword referred to the sword technique''s unique mode of activation. If it didn''tnd, it was fine. But once it struck and was allowed to grow, it would be a living nightmare!

    Hai Qing didn¡¯t lower her voice as she spoke. After she finished, Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the other original 250 recruits nearby all opened their mouths, faces turning pale!

    Undoubtedly, they were terrified! This was far more frightening than a Personal Pledge!

    Next were Zu Wei and Mu Zixiao''s group. The Mu brothers, who had been sneering, had stiff expressions. Theirplexions turned even paler.

    "Impossible! If he truly had this method to annihte 500 people at once, why gather so many?" Mu Zixiao shouted loudly.

    The louder he spoke, the more it showed his mental state was copsing.

    "No, they didn¡¯t dodge just now... If they were really fighting, how could he hit so many?" Hai Qing scoffed.

    Upon hearing her words, the 500 felt an urge to vomit blood on the spot.

    They had all realized the horror of the Yin Sword Embryo!

    No one understood it better than themselves!

    At that moment, their Dantian was fraught with sharp edges. The Sword Yin Embryo grew stronger, absorbing their tribtion power like a malignant tumor!

    It felt as if each person was carrying a ghostly infant, heads bowed, on the verge of tears.

    "Friendly reminder, everyone. Even if you¡¯re eliminated, this thing will follow you out. Your elders can¡¯t resolve it either. Getting eliminated means certain death outside, while staying here obediently offers a high chance of survival."

    As the 500 neers had deathly shadows looming above their heads, Yun Xiao''s words were like lethal des, causing many to cry on the spot.

    If only they hadn¡¯t looked down on him, they might have at least avoided this fate!

    Now they were truly suffering. The most vulnerable Dantian faced the most brutal Yin Sword Embryo, making each person feel as if Yun Xiao was pressing a sword against their throat, leaving them unable to breathe!

    "I don¡¯t believe it!" The burly man who had cursed the hardest just moments ago was nowughing outwardly. His face was impatient as he red at Yun Xiao, seemingly forgetting he was hiding in the crowd.

    "You eunuch, you''re just fooling people. Don¡¯t think..."

    Before he could finish his sentence, a bloody hole suddenly burst open in his abdomen, nearly three inches in diameter, as tribtion power surged out!

    An azure infant burst from his abdomen, crawling back into Yun Xiao''s hand. Its sharp cries sent shivers down everyone''s spines.

    "Good boy." Yun Xiao stroked the Yin Sword Embryo, squeezing it in his hand. The infant turned its head, crying as it looked at the burly man with a sinister expression.

    "Uh..." The burly man stared at the bloody hole in his abdomen, terror etched on his face. He slowly copsed, like a kite cut loose, swallowed by the raging blizzard below.

    "Anyone else want to experience this?" Yun Xiao yed with the Yin Sword Embryo in his hand, smiling at those before him.

    The 500 neers, still in a state of panic, suddenly straightened up, standing rigidly. They stared at Yun Xiao with utter fear, not daring to move.

    "That''s right. From now on, we are brothers in life and death. Shout with me, ''For the Extreme Yin Star,'' with all your might!" Yun Xiaoughed.

    "For the Extreme Yin Star!" the 500 neers cried out with heart-wrenching anguish.

    "Good," Yun Xiao pped his hands and then added, "Since that''s the case, each of you must first pay a membership fee of 10,000 Supreme Immortal Jades."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 903: Long Hao And Long Kun!

    The Southern Divine Dragon Star was a Taiyi Sourcecore of gold and ck hues, brimming with the raw forces of thunder, zing fire, and fierce storms.

    Above it, the Southern Divine Dragon Star Barrier roared with furious might, as if thousands of wrathful dragons roamed its expanse. Its formidable power was terrifying, inspiring both fear and awe in those who beheld it.

    The reason for its astonishing power was clear.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Star¡¯s Eight Divisions Heavenly Dragons held the top spot on the Grand Assembly Rankings, surpassing a score of 100 points.

    As the first sect to break the 100 point mark, it had created a vast gap between itself and second ce.

    Meanwhile, the Extreme Yin Star¡¯s Carefree Windy Clouds, once a top ten contender at the outset, had already fallen out of the top 100, disappearing from sight.

    A score exceeding 100 points meant that the Dragon Devil n¡¯s elite forces had conquered over 100 Taiyi Sourcecores and seized over 100 Parent gs.

    Consequently, the Southern Divine Dragon Star Barrier had been reinforced over 100 times, transforming it into an unbreakable fortress.

    The Star Barrier alone rivaled many of the finest elite. Just by looking at the Grand Assembly Rankings, the disparity between the Eight Divisions Heavenly Dragons and Carefree Windy Clouds was like night and day.

    Yet, whether within the Million Starlight Pce or Grand Assembly Arena, who dared to doubt the resilience of the Extreme Yin Star?

    Yun Xiao had continuously leveraged the Young Dragon Lord''s and Zu Wei''s humiliations to transform the once thinly popted Carefree Windy Clouds faction into a formidable power within the Grand Assembly Arena.

    With numerous flying talismans spreading the truth, many geniuses in the Grand Assembly Arena were gradually uncovering Yun Xiao¡¯s true strategy, leaving them both shocked and speechless.

    Some were incensed.

    ¡°That eunuch dog is aplete fraud, ruling through shamelessness!¡±

    ¡°The Extreme Yin Star coerced and tempted their way to assemble a 1,000-strong army. Their Personal Pledges are nothing but illusions. Once the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s alliance army arrives, Carefree Wind Clouds will crumble in a single blow.¡±

    Many disciples from various sects, responding to the Dragon Devil n¡¯s call, were now gathering outside the Southern Divine Dragon Star. Although they were astonished by the actions of Yun Xiao, rational analysis kept their spirits optimistic.

    Indeed, Personal Pledges were merely part of the rules of the game; they couldn¡¯t truly change hearts.

    ¡°With the Daoes great support, without it, little assistance. The Dragon Devil n acts on heaven¡¯s behalf, and we, the righteous, have no choice but to stand firm. The Extreme Yin Star¡¯s coercion and deceit in forcing Personal Pledges and assembling their army are nothing but evil deeds, destined to fail.¡±

    From the conviction on their faces, it was clear that the Dragon Devil n still held the hearts of the people.

    In the minds of ordinary people, this was far more effective than mere Personal Pledges.

    A thousand <em>Alliance</em><em>Army </em>soldiers had gathered outside the Southern Divine Dragon Star.

    It was said that the Young Dragon Lord, Long Hao, had personally named their force the <em>Alliance Army</em>.

    This meant that their campaign to eliminate the Extreme Yin Star represented the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River, the will of the people, and the collective will of all under heaven.

    The 1,000 talented disciples from various Heavenly Monarch sects gathering outside the Southern Divine Dragon Star were all members of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, each bearing a historical mission.

    They represented not just the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, but themselves as well¡ªa manifestation of a cultivator¡¯s responsibility, justice, and mission to vanquish evil.

    This was what truly ignited their passionate fervor.

    ¡°Rumor has it that four members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance have already joined the Alliance Army, and the numbers are still growing!¡±

    ¡°Even the Elysian Immortal Pce has stepped forward to support us, proving just how despised the Extreme Yin Star¡¯s celestial ve is by heaven and the people alike.¡±

    ¡°He gained benefits by humiliating others¡¯ wives. Such despicable scoundrels are vermin on the street¡ªeveryone wants to exterminate them!¡±

    ¡°Our mission is to eliminate evil first and rescue Zu Wei second!¡±

    This glorious mission had already set the hearts of 1,000 sect disciples aze, echoing the saying, ¡°With the Daoes great support.¡±

    Indeed, their Alliance Army was truly the people''s choice, mighty and formidable!

    These 1,000 geniuses were only part of the current Alliance Army. Another 1,000 were gathering at different rally points, ready for the expedition.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Two thousand passionate and resolute cultivators, facing the support and opposition of 1,000 hearts, this battle was essentially a lion pouncing on a hare.

    This perfectly aligned with Young Dragon Lord Long Hao¡¯s principle of crushing the weak with brute force.

    Whether it was tofu or a hare, he would smash it all with a single blow!

    Under hismand, the Alliance Army''s elite force shared this exhrating love for overwhelming force.

    They could hardly contain their impatience!

    ¡°Young Dragon Lord!¡±

    Heated, passionate roars echoed outside the Southern Divine Dragon Star, shaking the surroundingnds.

    Such fervent devotion seemed enough to allow someone to erase previous humiliations, to return to greatness and righteousness, earning admiration and envy from all under heaven!

    At this moment, Long Hao, surrounded by the 1,000 disciples, bathed in the golden-ck mes of the Southern Divine Dragon Star Barrier, his eyes zing like torches, gazed deeply upon all that unfolded.

    His sturdy ten-foot frame resembled a towering human-dragon hybrid, with burning golden hair and barely visible dragon scales. He exuded masculinity and dominance, born as a natural emperor with unparalleled demeanor.

    ¡°Long Hao, rx a bit!¡±

    A sh of bloodlight appeared behind him, reaching out a hand to pat the golden Young Dragon Lord on the shoulder.

    It was a dark red hand, belonging to a ten-foot-tall Dragon Devil n youth!

    Compared to Long Hao, he was slightly leaner, with long blood-red hair, narrow and cold eyes resembling those of a snake, and two dragon horns on his forehead, tinted with the same blood red as Feng Yao!

    However, his dragon horns were more like steel, ending in spear-like spikes, contrasting sharply with the War Princess'' crystal-clear, translucent horns.

    He was dressed in a ck robe, his lips a striking red, and a pair of sharp fangs were barely visible, resembling a ruthless vampire.

    "Long Kun, aren''t you ready yet?" Long Hao didn''t turn to look at him, responding with a hint of impatience.

    "My side is done. We can set off." The blood-haired youth named Long Kun was evidently also a Young Dragon Lord, his demeanor eerie and his face cold and charming, unlike Long Hao''s style.

    "We''re already a step behind. The other Young Dragon Lords and three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects, with over 1,000 people, have already set out ahead," Long Hao spoke, his expression extremely stern, as he moved toward the outside of the Southern Divine Dragon Star.

    "Long Hao." The blood-dragon Long Kun followed him, saying coldly, "We can''t hurry it anymore. I''ve been in contact with the Elysian Immortal Pce; they''ll be here soon. Zhao Cann''s charisma is even stronger than Zu Wei''s. It''s said he brought quite a few people."

    "Additional people?" Long Hao asked, his gaze growing more intense.

    "Of course! The Elysian Immortal Pce, Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star¡­ Four Heavenly Deity Alliance sects have joined forces with us to form the Alliance Army to jointly suppress the bandits. How could all the glory be given to us alone? They too deserve some credit," Long Kun replied coldly.

    "It''s turning into a civil war of the Heavenly Deity Ster River," Long Hao sneered.

    "Not exactly. To be precise, this is already a civil war of the Heavenly Deity Ster River for young talents. Although the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea were forcibly dragged into this by that eunuch dog, our Dragon Devil n had always nned to go after them next," Long Kun whispered coldly by his side.

    When Long Kun mentioned the words <em>eunuch dog</em>, Long Hao''s expression froze, a murderous intent brewing deep in his eyes.

    The humiliation of that day still sent shivers down his spine even now.

    This was exactly why Long Hao, regardless of everything, was determined to form alliances andpletely annihte the Extreme Yin Star.

    This time, without the hindrance of Shen Nanyin, relying solely on strength, what could the Dragon Devil n fear?

    "By the way, are you nning not to bring Shen Nanyin?" Long Kun suddenly asked.

    "Is there a problem?" Long Hao asked coldly.

    "I think you should bring her." Long Kun said, ncing downward.

    Deep within the raging mes, the nine-foot-tall, golden-haired beauty of the Dragon Devil n remained lost and despondent.

    She had be a disgrace to the Young Dragon Lord, and as a result, she never appeared in any setting. Instead, she wandered alone, healing her wounds, while Long Hao no longer spared her a nce.

    "What do you mean?"

    In this situation, Long Kun still expected him to bring Shen Nanyin, which truly annoyed Long Hao.

    But Long Kun raised an eyebrow and said, "That eunuch dog is utterly despicable, it''s truly disgusting. But to be honest, it has already happened, and you chose to protect her. Regardless of your intentions, to the outside world, your mission to clear your name is actually going quite well. The people must be praising you."

    "Do you like such praise? You can have it," Long Hao replied, speechless.

    Long Kun shook his head, ced his hand on Long Hao¡¯s shoulder, and continued, "I''m not mocking you. Regarding this matter, can you think more clearly? What is the essence of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects? Simply put, it''s performance. We perform with strength, and we perform with devotion to our wives. Since it''s all a performance, just y it through. What''s the key? Interests and benefits!

    "Now that you''ve already established this persona, rather than receiving strange looks from others, it''s better to be open and show your magnanimity, to y out this act. The more you downy the past, the more the outside will see you as magnanimous, believing that our Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s new generation is steady. As for after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects ends, if you want to kill and mutte Shen Nanyin and return to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡ªwho cares?" Long Kun hooked his arm around Long Hao¡¯s back and spoke earnestly.

    Long Hao listened, keeping his head down. He understood the reasoning, but whenever he thought of that scene, it was like a nightmare. Shen Nanyin''s expression of fear and humiliation, yet unable to suppress her pleasure, pierced his heart like thousands of swords.

    Long Kun patted his shoulder and smiled. "Who are we? The Dragon Devil n! Matters with women really don''t need to concern us too much. Break down our name¡ªwhat are you? What do we do? Heaven and earth are vast, the sun is supreme. Laughing at this point is the magnanimity of us Dragon Devil men."

    Long Hao and Long Kun indeed seemed driven by some profound mission.

    At this point, Long Hao exhaled deeply, closed his eyes, and said, "You''re right. The more I care about this matter, the more shameful it feels. The more I ignore it, the less people care. When that celestial ve and Shen Nanyin disappear from this world, no one will remember such trivial matters."

    "Yes! In the meantime, we must perform being benevolent and dutiful to our wives to align with the future grand scheme of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, right? To want to be first, first you must cleanse yourself thoroughly," Long Kun said.

    "Enough. You''ve already yapped long enough," Long Hao replied. The gloom in his eyes dissipated somewhat, and he gradually became indifferent.

 Chapter 904: Fairy of the Clouds!

    "Did you already figure this out a long time ago and were just waiting for me to offer you an out?" Long Kun was speechless to see him ept it so calmly.

    Long Hao red at him and said, "I want you to let your wife bring Shen Nanyin along. Not only do I have no objections, but I also want Shen Nanyin to personally behead that celestial ve."

    "That''s right!" Long Kun finally saw Long Hao break through this mental trap and felt greatly relieved. Heughed, "In the end, he''s just a castrated dog, not a man at all. No matter how many tricks he has, hecks manhood. It''s merely a pathetic desire. Letting him go would only have him gazing longingly at the peach blossomnd, mourning in vain. Why bother with him?"

    "Shut your mouth quickly!" Long Hao retorted, exasperated.

    "Anyway, this time we''ve tied four Heavenly Deity Alliance sects to our war chariot. This in itself is a huge sess. When those sects outside see this situation, they''ll understand just how powerful our Southern Divine Dragon Realm really is. Whether to surrender or not will be clear to them," Long Kun sneered.

    A young man creating such a grand scheme, even if it was just to swat a fly, actually proved that the elders of the Dragon Devil n had alreadyid the groundwork in the power struggle within the Samsara Gxy.

    This was a severe deterrent to the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    "That said, we must not let our guard down even for a moment. We must drive the the Extreme Yin Star into a desperate situation. Only then will our mission in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects be truly sessful," Long Hao said coldly.

    "Of course. If we forged an iron hammer and it couldn''t even crush tofu, then we shouldn''t be in this business," Long Kun sneered."Like I said, we can''t underestimate them even a little. We must annihte them with full force, leaving them no chance," Long Hao said seriously.

    "Alright, alright." Long Kun couldn''t argue with Long Hao. He couldn''t imagine how, with Long Hao''s personality, that celestial ve could have exploited such a weakness.

    "They''re here." Long Kun pointed.

    In the raging fire, Shen Nanyin lowered her head, her face slightly pale, approaching them with a look of tension.

    The reason she dared toe was that another Dragon Devil n woman was holding her hand!

    She was a Dragon Devil n woman with blood-red hair like Long Kun''s. She wasn''t as dignified as Shen Nanyin, but she was more enchanting and charming, clearly a beauty.

    Just considering her figure, this blood-haired Dragon Devil n woman was naturally more stunning. When beside Shen Nanyin, she might not be too obvious, but if her graceful nine-foot tall body appeared in front of Yun Xiao, one would truly appreciate her imposing stature.

    This woman was Long Kun''swful wife, named Shi Feifei. Like Shen Nanyin, she had been summoned by their elders before the Grand Assembly Arena battle began, tasked with co-starring alongside Shen Nanyin in the performance.

    However, the onstage chemistry between Long Kun and Shi Feifei was far more electrifying than that of Long Hao and Shen Nanyin. They clung together almost from start to finish, disying intimate gestures that left the countless spectators in the Million Starlight Pce blushing.

    "Feifei, my darling."

    "Kun Kun!"

    Upon seeing each other, they embraced. Long Kun spun her around in his arms, while she nestled into him¡ªa scene of unparalleled sweetness.

    Their lingering gazes, intoxicated with passion, seemed to dere that if left alone, they could engage in an endless battle of wills at any moment.

    The fierce, towering presence of the Dragon Devil n''s men and women had such a visual impact that the men and women across the entire Samsara Gxy felt their own shorings inparison.

    "Young Dragon Lord..." Shen Nanyin approached Long Hao, her face tense, head bowed, eyes brimming with tears. She spoke, "If I get the chance, I will personally y that celestial ve, dismembering him limb by limb."

    "Mhm." Long Hao nodded, "Come on."

    Shen Nanyin hesitated for a moment before slowly moving forward.

    Suddenly, Long Hao reached out and took her delicate hand. To Yun Xiao, her jade-like hand wasrge enough to cover half his head, but to the Young Dragon Lord Long Hao, it remained slender and graceful.

    "I''ll take you to kill him!" After saying this, Long Hao turned and pulled Shen Nanyin, heading straight into the ranks of the fervent 1,000-strong Alliance Army.

    At this moment, his towering shoulders moved, and Shen Nanyin couldn''t help but weep with emotion.

    From a distance, Yun Xiao''s mark upon her began to loosen gradually.

    So, she silently vowed, "In this life, I will give everything for this man..."

    As for Yun Xiao, putting aside the strange feeling of being conquered, Shen Nanyin gritted her teeth, eyes filled with endless disgust and murderous intent.

    "Castrated dog! No wonder you can only act on your impulses! The so-called humiliation is really just a reflection of your own inferiority and cowardice..." n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Cursing, Shen Nanyin felt much better. She couldn''t help but puff out her chest, walking with the wind in her steps.

    "Alliance Army! Alliance Army!!"

    When her own man once again brought her into the spotlight, all her pride and confidence returned. She was still that Shen Nanyin!

    "Nanyin."

    Seeing Long Hao and Shen Nanyin regain their faith, Shi Feifei¡ªthe other Young Dragon Consort¡ªwas filled with joy.

    She nced reproachfully at Long Kun, saying, "They finally made up. You did well."

    Long Kun smiled faintly. "I''m not like Long Hao. He''s just acting; I''m genuinely fond of you."

    "Stop ttering me, hmph!" Shi Feifei snorted lightly. "If that little castrated dog insulted me in this way, you''d probably ughter me on the spot."

    "Nonsense!"

    "So, what would you do?"

    Long Kun coughed, "Shut up and stop talking about such ominous things. That dirty dog will have all his internal organs gutted this time."

    "Tch!" Shi Feifei smiled coquettishly, her heart still sweet. Her alluring demeanor,bined with the Dragon Devil n''s impressive assets, stood in stark contrast to Shen Nanyin¡ªlike fire and ice.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    Led by Long Hao and Long Kun, the 1,000-strong Alliance Army assembled with fervent passion!

    They fought from the heart, their battle intentions overwhelming.

    Long Hao openly brought Shen Nanyin along, feeling no shame, a move that only deepened respect for him.

    Indeed, many praised his magnanimity, looking down on the lowly and crude nature of that celestial ve.

    And just then, the heavyweight figure whom Long Hao had been waiting for had finally arrived¡­

    In the starry expanse to the east, a swath of auspicious clouds drifted in, the white clouds pure and lofty, sweeping in like heavenly soldiers and divine generals!

    Above the auspicious seven-colored clouds, numerous celestial talents were vaguely visible, each bearing clear righteous traits. From afar, they resembled a group of sage immortals.

    "They are disciples of the Elysian Immortal Pce!"

    "This formation has at least 500 people... they''ve also gathered quite a few righteous warriors!"

    "In that case, on our side, we have at least 1,500 people, plus the 1,000-strong force led by the other three Young Dragon Lords, making at least 2,500 people altogether!"

    "Not just that. The Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star will surely bring some troops of their own. I estimate that when they all descend upon the Extreme Yin Star, the total will exceed 3,000!"

    "Three thousand heroes of heart against 1,000 fractured captives. This difference¡­"

    As the righteous and formidable side, the Alliance Army''s talented troops naturally exuded grace and unwavering conviction.

    As the saying went, wise men avoided fighting against the wind.

    Everyone knew exactly how to position themselves, their minds as clear as mirrors.

    ¡°Even the Elysian Immortal Pce, a long-established super powerhouse in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, personally came to support the Dragon Devil n. It speaks volumes!¡±

    ¡°Who''s leading the Elysian Immortal Pce?¡±

    ¡°It''s Zhao Cann, the direct disciple of our Senior Gong Tianjian from the Joint Law Enforcement Division! He has a good rtionship with the Young Dragon Lord.¡±

    ¡°And there''s another beauty¡­ Oh my, she''s the daughter of the Elysian Immortal Pce Lord!¡±

    ¡°Yun Lingchen?¡±

    ¡°She actually came in person¡­¡±

    ¡°The legendary Yun Lingchen, the most beautiful woman in the Heavenly Deity Ster River?¡±

    ¡°I never expected to witness the grace of the famed Fairy of the Clouds today.¡±

    ¡°The two Young Dragon Consorts are both top-tier beauties, and now our camp is graced by a celestial maiden of such pure elegance like Yun Lingchen¡­¡±

    Everyone was thrilled, though unfortunately, these stunning talents were beyond the reach of most.

    ¡°I heard Zhao Cann has been pursuing Yun Lingchentely, and now they''re arriving together. Doesn''t that say something?¡±

    Although everyone admired celestial maidens, normal people knew there was no chance of a toad eating swan meat.

    So, when they saw Zhao Cann and Yun Lingchen arriving side by side, most felt a sense of blessing.

    ¡°Five Young Dragon Lords, Yun Lingchen and Zhao Cann, plus three other top prodigies from the other Heavenly Deity Alliance sects. That damn eunuch Yun Xiao will bepletely annihted in body and soul¡±

    In an instant, the heroes of the Alliance Army present were already impatient and eagerly anticipating the confrontation.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 905: Chess Pieces Being Set In Place!

    MIllion Starlight Pce¡­

    After the Zu Wei incident, Yun Xiao had disappeared for a time, clearly due to the secret orders of the Three Divas.

    The spectators present only then realized the significance of having elders in the Grand Assembly Arena.

    In the past, elders scoffed at entering, fearing mockery.

    But this time, the sess or failure of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was tied to their future in the Heavenly Deity Alliance. The elders indeed needed to step in.

    Not to interfere directly, but to serve as a calming presence for the geniuses at crucial moments.

    Of course, without elders from the Dragon Devil n stepping in, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm was managing fine so far. The five Young Dragon Lords were performing excellently, earning high praise from their elders.

    With the Alliance Army''s 3,000 geniuses already assembled for the campaign, and the Extreme Yin Star seemingly prepared for a fierce battle, the vast Million Starlight Pce fell into unprecedented silence.

    This was the calm before the storm!Many looked toward the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s strongmen, noticing the elders from Elysian Immortal Pce, Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star nearby.

    Then, when they nced over to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, where only the lone Ice Valkyrie Queen stood... their expressions turned strange.

    ¡°That celestial ve is incredible. Without him, the Young Dragon Lords of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm wouldn¡¯t unleash such terrifying power.¡±

    ¡°You could say that within the Heavenly Deity Ster River, almost all geniuses under the age of 50 have concentrated their power into this Alliance Army.¡±

    ¡°To provoke the wrath of all geniuses on the Heavenly Deity Ster River, this celestial ve truly deserves a ce in history.¡±

    Most people did not deny Yun Xiao¡¯s remarkable achievements.

    So far, he had created miracles beyond belief.

    But he had also awakened his opponents'' greatest potential.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    A 3,000-strong Alliance Army had been assembled. Four Heavenly Deity Alliance sects were also directly with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, creating a force that could swallow the world and the Ster River!

    ¡°Miracles have happened not only once, but twice.¡±

    ¡°Can there be a third time?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? The gap in manpower this time is huge. If he really pulls it off a third time, I will literally eat shit."

    As the Alliance Army advanced, discussions within the Million Starlight Pce began to spread, sparking intense debates.

    ¡°Loophole? What do you mean loophole? Do you think that eunuch dog has the manhood to <em>exploit</em> a loophole?"

    ¡°Well, you know, those without can only make do. Haha!!¡±

    Those not involved evenughed together.

    ¡°To be honest, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is targeted by the whole world. The pitiable must have something detestable.¡±

    ¡°They can¡¯t clear their name. The most disgusting are those kinds of women! It¡¯s the ones like Zu Wei and the Mu brothers¡ªover 1,000 who have surrendered their Personal Pledges¡ªwho are truly pitiable. Standing against the Heavenly Deity Ster River for no reason.¡± ?

    ¡°The Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea were supposed to be neutral, right? But with that celestial ve so ruthless, and the Three Divas not doing anything, they¡¯re truly brainless. I bet Empyrean Emperor Mu and the Great Dream Lord are really furious. Once the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects concludes, these lousy women will finally learn what death means.¡±

    "Shoving neutral parties onto the opponents is pure, pure brainless behavior. Right now, the three major powers of the Heavenly Deity Ster River are the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, Ancestral Land, and Elysian Immortal Pce. If the three of them join forces to wipe out your second-rate sect expelled from the Heavenly Deity Alliance, isn''t that just convenient?"

    Regarding the Zu Wei incident, people had discussed it countless times. But up until that moment, they still couldn''t fully understand. They were agitated and felt even more sympathy for the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea.

    "I''ll put it this way: after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects concludes, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm will incite public outrage and be razed to the ground by thebined forces of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, wiped out entirely. They deserve it."

    "Doing some bad deeds is nothing, but being stupid,cking insight¡ªreally, one can only me themselves.."

    Yun Xiao''s actions regarding Zu Wei hadrgely stirred disapproval among the vast majority of neutral, morally upright warriors.

    So, now in the Million Starlight Pce, everyone was moring against the Harmony Divine Pce.

    One could imagine the immense pressure the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, ostracized by the masses, had to bear. The insults raged like a tsunami, engulfing her.

    She lowered her head, clenched her fists, closed her eyes, and waited silently without uttering a word.

    At that moment, she was already nailed to the pir of shame of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    In those cold, harsh gazes, the most piercing came from two sources. One was from the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, and the other, naturally, came from the Dragon Devil n and the other four Heavenly Deity Alliance sects brimming with murderous intent!

    Next to the Golden Dragon Emperor and Gong Tianjian stood the Blood Dragon Emperor, along with representatives of the other three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects, all gathering together.

    The Blood Dragon Emperor was the father of Long Kun, a cold and eerie man with long hair cascading like a waterfall, a thin and narrow mouth, sharp dragon horns, and a loose robe that resembled a cloud of blood.

    Their eyes fixed on the screen, watching the two battalions of the Alliance Army converging toward the Extreme Yin Star.

    "There''s no need to worry, gentlemen. These five Young Dragon Lords,bined with the geniuses of our four sects and 3,000-strong army, can easily handle that rag-tag bunch. No suspense here," Gong Tianjian said.

    "Indeed, no suspense at all." The Blood Dragon Emperor slightly lifted his chin. "It''s just that this little eunuch even brought out the Yin Sword Embryo, indicating that those three vile women have been preparing for this day for quite some time."

    "The Yin Sword Embryo is indeed malicious." The Golden Dragon Emperor nodded, then turned to an elder beside him. "Most people don''t understand the sword arts of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Many sects fell for it this time. You''re responsible for exaggerating and spreading this, to further incriminate the Harmony Divine Pce."

    "Yes, Dragon Emperor!" The elder nodded and took his leave.

    "With this, these vile women have be absolute public enemies," Gong Tianjian sneered.

    "If you don''t seek death, you won''t die. They had to make that celestial ve act, which gave us the perfect excuse." The Golden Dragon Emperor finished speaking, looked at the Blood Dragon Emperor, and said, "The issues inside the arena are manageable, but the preparations outside..."

    "I just received word¡ªthe Heavenly Deity Ster Formation has been sealed, and all our powerhouses are in ce. Finally..." The Blood Dragon Emperor took a shallow breath and sneered, "The Dragon Ancestor has set out."

    Upon hearing this, the Golden Dragon Emperor, Gong Tianjian, and the others shared knowing smiles.

    "Annihting the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and seizing the Supreme Yin Cauldron is the only thing that can awaken the old man," the Blood Dragon Emperor said with a grin.

    "Then, both inside and out, the present and the future are clear." The Golden Dragon Emperor reclinedfortably on his seat, chuckling, "Now, let¡¯s enjoy the show, friends."

    The elders of the Heavenly Deity Alliance exchanged nces andughed together.

    "Chief Gong." The Blood Dragon Emperor raised his bloodshot eyebrows and asked Gong Tianjian, "I see your disciple Zhao Cann and your sect leader¡¯s most talented daughter have a promising future?"

    Gong Tianjian smiled softly and shook her head. "Chenchen has a very broad vision. I hope Cann works hard and catches her eye."

    "This extermination of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is the perfect opportunity to shine. All it takes is a smile from a beauty, and there¡¯s no problem. Cann is indeed outstanding," the Golden Dragon Emperor replied.

    "I appreciate your well wishes," Gong Tianjian responded with a smile.

    After smiling, her heart was filled with hope. In reality, her humble origins made her rise to her current high position, a significant breakthrough within the Elysian Immortal Pce''s hierarchy.

    If her personally trained disciple could be a celestial pair with Yun Lingchen, both she and her n would gain even greater influence within the Elysian Immortal Pce!

    "Cann, it''s up to you now." Gong Tianjian remained rxed, leaning back on her seat, waiting to watch the spectacle.

    The entire Million Starlight Pce was fixated on the grand war unfolding among the geniuses of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    Other Ster Rivers were mere skirmishes inparison. Only here, in the eastern district of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, was a true miniature war determining the future bnce of the Ster Rivers!

    At least 80,000,000 eyes were focused here!

    On the screen, Yun Xiao, who had just unleashed the Yin Sword Embryo, undeniably stood out as the most ring focal point!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????

    On the Extreme Yin Star¡­

    Over 500 Sword Yin Embryo captives wore ghastly green faces. They had originally nned to withdraw for safety. Now, withdrawal meant certain death!

    What did this truly signify? These geniuses needed to weigh their options carefully.

    ¡°My request is simple: face the enemy honorably in battle. As long as you contribute, you will not die.¡± Yun Xiao¡¯s words still echoed in their ears.

    The embryos within them constantly reminded them that their lives were in Yun Xiao¡¯s hands.

    This was more terrifying than offering their Personal Pledges!

    ¡°How can we possibly fight the Alliance Army?¡±

    The 500 geniuses felt utterly hopeless, tears welling without escape. Fear of death left them agonizing over their choices.

    Yet, Yun Xiao had no fear of them shirking their duties!

    Fighting might not guarantee survival, but not fighting assured death. What choice was there? Anyone with a clear mind understood.

    This was the terrifying power of the Yin Sword Embryo.

    Across the Extreme Yin Star, over 1,000 people were engulfed in deadly silence because of this sword technique.

    And at this moment, Yun Xiao turned his head to look at the 100 or so apanying Zu Wei and Mu Zixiao.

    They quickly stepped back several paces, their faces nching with fear.

    Mu Zixiao stammered, ¡°Y-Yun Xiao, we¡¯re willing to fight for you. We don¡¯t need the Yin Sword Embryo.¡±

    ¡°Of course. You are all my brothers.¡± Yun Xiao smiled.

    But Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, Ah Jiao, the Bloodvine Young Master, and others wore even stranger expressions.

    In the hierarchy of power, Yun Xiao had deemed the 250 of them as his most favored soldiers.

    After all, they were the furthest from Yun Xiao¡¯s core, being former followers of the Young Dragon Lord.

    ¡°With this, we must fight even harder for him,¡± Gusu Yan sighed.

    ¡°Why?¡± Ah Jiao asked irritably.

    ¡°Because he respects us the most, and we have ample reason to ept his control,¡± Bai Lu responded.

    ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s fight first! If we can¡¯t win and are crushed utterly, it won¡¯t be our fault,¡± the Bloodvine Young Master dered.

    ¡°Agreed!¡±

    Their side was unified in opinion.

    A thousand captives, three modes of treatment¡ªall centered around Yun Xiao.

    The pre-battle mobilization wasplete.

    Yun Xiao turned to Hai Qing and said, ¡°Have you received any news from the scouts I sent?¡±

    ¡°We''ve located the positions of the enemy¡¯s two forces,¡± Hai Qing replied earnestly.

    A battle of super geniuses was about to erupt. She couldn¡¯t help but feel nervous and somewhat disoriented.

    Wan Ji''s seven daughters never dreamed that Yun Xiao could elevate the fate of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to such a grand scale.

    ¡°Divided into two groups, right?¡± Yun Xiao took the star map and examined the two locations marked by Hai Qing¡­

 Chapter 906: Two Coronas!

    Yun Xiao''s scouts had pinpointed the enemy army at two locations andmunicated back using flying talismans.

    "Each force has 1,500 troops, with four Heavenly Deity Alliance sects joining them. Both forces are highly formidable, with no shortage of top-tier geniuses. Judging by their marching time, they will rendezvous near the Extreme Yin Star and attack us together," Hai Qing''s voice turned chilly.

    Attacking simultaneously, not one after the other!

    The reason for splitting into two groups was naturally because the Dragon Devil n was mobilizing righteous warriors in two different sectors of the Grand Assembly Arena to maximize theirbat power.

    "When ites to boasting, they¡¯re not boasting at all. Every attack, theye with all they¡¯ve got."

    If it weren¡¯t for theirrge numbers and slow movements, Yun Xiao would have no time to defend.

    Now hearing that the enemy had a righteous army of 3,000 geniuses, panic spread across the Extreme Yin Star.

    Yun Xiao''s expression remained unchanged. He nced at the star map a few times before suddenly saying, "If they sessfully rendezvous and attack, we¡¯ll have a hard time holding back 3,000 people."

    "Isn¡¯t that obvious? Just tell us the solution," Feng Yao scoffed."The solution is to prevent their rendezvous," Yun Xiao replied.

    "How do we stop them? Do we send an elite team to disrupt one group and leave the other group for a bloody battle?" Feng Yao asked.

    "No." Yun Xiao shook his head, pointing to the star map. "I¡¯ll block this group, and leave the remaining group to you and the other 1,000."

    "What?!"

    Hai Qing, Feng Yao, along with Bai Lu, Zu Wei, Mu Zixiao, and others nearby, were stunned.

    "You¡¯ll block a group yourself?" Hai Qing stammered.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "Uh, you''re one person, how do you block 1,500 people? If they¡¯re determined to march forward, you can¡¯t stop them." Hai Qing wasn¡¯t denying Yun Xiao¡¯sbat prowess and escape abilities; she was stating the facts.

    "Because I am the Star Liege, because they hate me enough, and because I¡¯m their primary target to kill. If I provoke them even slightly, they¡¯ll have only eyes for me," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    Everyone didn¡¯t deny this. Those people truly hated Yun Xiao to the core.

    They couldn¡¯t kill Feng Yao, not even torture her, but Yun Xiao, they hated him to the point of heart-wrenching agony.

    "Are you really going to be so brave?" Feng Yao knew he was formidable, but at this moment, she was somewhat taken aback, feeling it was too exaggerated.

    "Enough with the nonsense." Yun Xiao red at her. "I¡¯m handing this over to you as themander. A thousand people backed by the Extreme Yin Star. If you lose the Parent g, I¡¯ll kill you."

    "Tch." Feng Yao rolled her eyes. "You''re the one trying to take on 1,500 people alone. We have so many people, what are we afraid of? Don¡¯t end up in a heap and need us to save you."

    "Heh." Yun Xiao smiled.

    "Yun Xiao, when are you setting off?" Hai Qing and her sisters were still a bit stunned, their voices a bit mushy, eyes full of admiration for Yun Xiao.

    Indeed, their eyes held a hint of obsession.

    "I¡¯m leaving right now," Yun Xiao said.

    "So soon¡­"

    Before they could react, he had vanished like a sh of swordlight¡ªswift in arrival, swift in departure.

    "Then which group are you going to block?" Feng Yao asked casually, as usual.

    Yun Xiao nced back and said, "On this side, there are two Young Dragon Lords and the Elysian Immortal Pce, right? Plus the direct disciples of that old hag Gong Tianjian? I''m taking that group."

    Feng Yao couldn''t help but feel angry, biting her lip. "You''re going to find that big breasted¡­"

    Obviously, she already knew about the incident between him and Shen Nanyin.

    There were women in this world whose talents surpassed hers in scale; she found it hard to ept.

    Of course, a greater scale didn''t mean more beautiful. If we were talking about absolute perfection, without a single w, it had to be the Mortal Dust Devil.

    "Hey, we''re at the precipice of life and death, stop talking nonsense." Yun Xiao nced at her, toozy to exin, allowing Feng Yao''s imagination to run wild.

    Without a word of farewell, he mounted his Sovereign Sword and flew away, vanishing in a sh before everyone''s eyes!

    It was still the same approach. He''d go off on an expedition on his own, while the rest stayed to defend.

    Even with the enemy numbering 3,000 geniuses, Yun Xiao would proceed the same way!

    Yun Xiao''s strategic arrangements were heard by Bai Lu, Zu Wei, Mu Zixiao, and others, even reaching the Million Starlight Pce.

    Without a doubt, everyone''s hearts were in turmoil.

    "Too confident, too brazen, a model for our generation!" Bai Ao shouted excitedly.

    Honestly, he couldn''t help but admire Yun Xiao somewhat.

    The same event, seen by different eyes, elicited naturally different reactions.

    Even on the Extreme Yin Star, most of the <em>captives</em> exchanged nces, no words spoken.

    To them, it was clear Yun Xiao was insane! He was a sheep entering a tiger''s den, a moth drawn to the me!

    The most pessimistic, of course, were thetest 500 neers, with the rtively more optimistic being Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the others.

    "So, what do we do?" Gusu Yan looked at everyone.

    "Either way, facing only one group would reduce the pressure somewhat," Jiang Dongcheng said.

    "He''s heading out on his own while we''re waiting here; surely his side will meet them first. We''ll wait for updates," Hu Li said.

    "One man to stop 1,500 geniuses, including two Young Dragon Lords and talents like Yun Lingchen and Zhao Cann, who are Fifth Baptism Realm geniuses¡­ Isn''t he being a bit too confident?" Gusu Yan still found Yun Xiao''s arrogance hard to ept.

    "Doubting and specting serve no purpose. Just watch!" Bai Lu dered with a deep voice.

    Beside her, Bai Ao whispered disdainfully, "What¡¯s the point? He''s definitely heading there for round two, with the Young Dragon Lord getting cuckolded again."

    "Shut up!" Bai Lu''s face flushed red as she recalled the scene, muttering under her breath, "Good-for-nothing scoundrel!"

    Even after cursing, she wasn¡¯t appeased and added, "He''s clearly a celestial ve, yet still so restless. People crave what theyck the most. What¡¯s the point if you don''t even have your manhood?"

    "Sis, you¡¯d better keep quiet, or he''ll go after you too. Then, Gusu Yan will be crying his heart out," Bai Ao softly warned.

    Furious, Bai Lu grabbed her brother by the neck, shaking him vigorously to vent her anger.

    Meanwhile, after Yun Xiao departed, Feng Yao took up the Parent g and loudly proimed, "Everyone, follow me into the Extreme Yin Star. Form lines in front of me to make it easier for me to shoot arrows!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    As the 1,500 exquisitely dressed, majestic, and awe-inspiring geniuses of the Alliance Army streaked across the starry void of the Grand Assembly Arena, even the surrounding Taiyi Sourcecores seemed to glow brightly!

    These 1,000 prodigies from the Dragon Devil n, along with the 500 young geniuses from the Elysian Immortal Pce, had been streamlined.

    Those who had joined midwayst time and abandoned their posts could no longer catch the eye of the Young Dragon Lord Long Hao.

    So, this force of 1,500 Alliance Army soldiers truly represented a popce of geniuses, all possessing superior bloodlines, noble backgrounds, and countless aplishments.

    They embodied the future of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    At their core were the elite talents from the Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce, each boasting over 50 top-tier disciples, at or above the level of Samsara Disciples!

    Some had even reached the level of Valkyries, surpassing even Zu Wei.

    Of course, it wasn¡¯t that Zu Weicked talent. Like Meng Huan, she was simply younger. Perhaps the next Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects would truly be her time.

    But this session was destined to belong to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Elysian Immortal Pce.

    The most dazzling among the 1,500-strong army were undoubtedly three couples.

    The first two were Long Hao and Shen Nanyin; and Long Kun and Shi Feifei!

    Amidst these two towering, handsome and enchanting nine-foot-tall giants, the pair of ordinary height humans did not lose any of their radiance¡ªin fact, they shone even brighter.

    One youth stood out, dressed in blue, his hair flowing like waves, his handsome features and natural demeanor embodying the essence of a celestial being stepped out of a painting.

    His presence, appearance, and aura possessed the depth of a vast ocean and the clear, blue rity of seawater, like a wless blue sapphire in the sea, eliciting countless admirations.

    Zhao Cann was known by all in the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    He was the sole direct disciple of Gong Tianjian, and his modest beginnings belied his meteoric rise. His life journey was a beacon for young cultivators.

    Now, as he transcended countless ranks to ascend the pinnacle of the Elysian Immortal Pce, facing that noble and exalted silhouette, people couldn¡¯t help but sigh¡ªit was the most beautiful ending to a legend.

    Zhao Cann¡¯s talent made him worthy of being the most desired bachelor of the Elysian Immortal Pce, destined to apany the naturally unmatched Yun Lingchen.

    And now, that graceful figure stood beside him.

    She was a young woman d in a short cloud-patterned dress, pure white as snow, truly deserving the title of the greatest beauty in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. A single nce would imprint her image for a lifetime; every inch of her features and body was wless, as if carved from jade, radiating a gentle glow.

    In contrast to the dignified and charming demeanor of the two Young Dragon Consorts, she presented an entirely different style¡ªyouthful purity, captivating and slightly yful. Her lively, big natural eyes and soft pink cherry lips exuded a pure, unblemished beauty, like the cleanest of spirits, untouched by any defilement.

    The most striking feature on her was her Corona. She had two Coronas!

    This was the Elysian Immortal Pce¡¯s most astonishing talent,parable to the Ancestral Land''s trifecta talent of sword, sigil, and martial arts. These two Coronas bestowed her with divine radiance and enhancedbat prowess. Most intriguing, the shape of the Coronas resembled rabbit ears¡­

    So, Yun Lingchen looked somewhat like a yful, adorable cloud rabbit, her twin Coronas swaying like rabbit ears, making her even more lively and charming.

    Such rabbit ears invited endless imagination.

    In short, she was a girl whose temperament and beauty closely resembled Divine Dawn, exuding youthful charm.

    However, unlike Divine Dawn¡ªa fierce, untamable little white tiger¡ªthis maiden was sweet and endearing, seemingly no threat, like an innocent little white rabbit¡­

    "Impressive."

    Ahead of the 1,500 Alliance Army, a young man in white suddenly appeared.

    He looked at the sweet and endearing little white rabbit among the crowd, a slight smile curling at the corner of his mouth as he made his assessment.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 907: Step Forward, and Your Lives End Here!

    Yun Xiao appeared without warning.

    As the 1,500 troops of the Alliance Army neared the Extreme Yin Star, their spirits surged with anticipation. Amidst their fervor, they suddenly encountered the very person they most desired to eliminate!

    They had feared Yun Xiao might turn tail and flee; after all, they longed to squash this <em>fly</em>. Yet here he was, revealing himself of his own ord? Alone, standing before their grand army?

    As Yun Xiao''s white robes fluttered into view, the Alliance Army halted abruptly. Eyes widened in disbelief and astonishment.

    "How dare he?"

    What did a 1,500-strong army of geniuses represent?

    In the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena, there were 555 Taiyi Sourcecores, with the total number of geniuses barely reaching 10,000!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    These righteous warriors, rallied together by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and four Heavenly Deity Alliance sects, represented almost a quarter of the celestial sects of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    What had been a chaotic melee of sieges and conquests was forcibly turned into a standoff between good and evil by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Yun Xiao.The two forces of the Alliance Army, totaling 3,000 troops altogether, had long agreed. Once the eradication of evil wasplete¡ªsevering any chance of the Extreme Yin Star entering the top ten¡ªthe Heavenly Deity Ster River region would, like the others, return to its rhythm of chaotic warfare.

    The 1,500 troops before Yun Xiao embodied the will of almost 200 Heavenly Monarch sects in the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    The incidents involving the Young Dragon Consort and Zu Wei had indeed pushed many neutral parties toward the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    When a giant was about to fall, plenty of hyenas were eager to pounce and divide the spoils.

    Such was human nature. It had nothing to do with good or evil. This was simply the reality of things.

    "That celestial ve has appeared!"

    Mocking voices spread across the battlefield.

    The advancing troops fanned out, eagerly crowding forward, stretching their necks as if watching a monkey perform.

    "First, check if there are any other roadblocks around!" Soon, the majestic and resonant voice of the Young Dragon Lord echoed.

    From that solemn and cold tone, one could hear Long Hao''s loathing for this celestial ve. How could he forget the humiliation he''d endured?

    "There don''t appear to be any enemy forces within 20 miles, sir!"

    Before long, it was confirmed that Yun Xiao stood alone.

    Upon hearing this, Long Hao and Long Kun frowned. They were truly displeased; in the past, those who acted as recklessly as Yun Xiao were the first to die.

    Boasting to the point of inciting public wrath! Yet why wouldn''t he die?

    For a moment, silence fell over the crowd.

    The Young Dragon Consort, Shen Nanyin, brimming with resolve and overflowing hatred, was about to erupt.

    In her imagination, Yun Xiao should have been hiding deep within the Extreme Yin Star, shivering in fear.

    "How could he be so audacious?"

    The more forceful this celestial ve became, refusing to cower as they had expected, the more Shen Nanyin''s hardened resolve began to waver. She felt her battle armor grow cold against her skin, as if riddled with unseen ws.

    "Fine then, let''s kill this spineless eunuch dog first!" Shen Nanyin spat through gritted teeth. The venom in her words masked an instinctive fear that gnawed at her.

    "Exactly. That dead eunuch is simply stalling for time to protect the Extreme Yin Star. By putting on this tough act, he''s only exposing their weakness and helplessness." Shi Feifei, a nine-foot beauty with curling blood-red hair and seductive charm, bit her red lips and spoke with disdain.

    The two Young Dragon Lords exchanged nces. Long Kun saw the boundless killing intent in Long Hao''s eyes and sensed his urgency.

    "In that case, let''s turn this to our advantage," Long Kun said. "Continue marching toward the Extreme Yin Star and force him to act!"

    They needed to corner Yun Xiao because,st time, when he captured Shen Nanyin, he demonstrated agility and speed that made him hard to catch in the starry expanse. But now, they would corner him so he couldn''t escape.

    "Yun Lingchen, Zhao Cann..." Long Hao looked toward the couple from the Elysian Immortal Pce.

    The blue-d youth, as handsome as an Immortal from the vast seas, maintained a calm and elegant demeanor. "The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm poisons celestial ves. This one was once a victim, yet now he aids the wicked. That makes him even more detestable. We must eliminate him swiftly, restore righteousness to the Heavenly Deity Ster River, and give other victims closure."

    "Well said." Long Hao smiled, golden mes burning in his eyes, a volcano of rage ready to erupt within his chest.

    He nced at Yun Lingchen. This noble maiden, though possessing unparalleled beauty, had the temperament of a little sister¡ªpure and adorable. Regarding Yun Xiao, she seemed indifferent.

    "Lingchen, what do you think?" Zhao Cann asked her with a gentle smile.

    Yun Lingchen''s gaze swept over 1,000 troops. At first nce, she saw the white-robed youth standing alone. Her eyes brightened slightly.

    She had heard tales of this celestial ve''s vile deeds and imagined he would be a bald, scarred brute or perhaps a gloomy figure with a face caked in makeup. Unexpectedly, the youth before them, his white robes fluttering, was a peerless, handsome man.

    Zhao Cann was already considered the epitome of the human race''s young and dashing Immortals. Yet, the youth standing before the 1,500 troops, hands sped behind his back, possessed a demeanor even more striking.

    Just one nce, and he was hard to forget.

    "Facing 1,500 troops alone¡ªquite brave indeed," Yun Lingchen said softly, her cherry lips parting as her beautiful eyes shimmered.

    "Those in decline need a gimmick," Zhao Cann exined.

    "Alright then..." Yun Lingchen nced at the Young Dragon Consort, Shen Nanyin. Recalling those explosive rumors andparing Yun Xiao''s physique to Shen Nanyin''s, she couldn''t help but stick out her tongue. She thought to herself, "Could this celestial ve have a motherplex? So young and already reduced to a eunuch¡ªtruly pitiful."

    Of course, she kept these thoughts to herself; if she voiced them, Long Hao would surely be furious.

    Long Hao didn''t want to wait another moment. He raised his hand high.

    Seeing that enormous, dragon-scaled arm lifted skyward, the 1,500 troops of the Alliance Army sprang into action.

    That arm wasrger than the entire bodies of many women.

    "Righteousness destroys evil! Purge our Ster River of the wicked!"

    Assuming the stance of righteous superiors wielding great power, the Alliance Army fixed their gaze on Yun Xiao and shouted their slogans.

    "Rescuing celestial ves is everyone''s duty!"

    "But not this castrated dog whose soul has been corrupted by the Harmony Divine Pce!"

    "Eunuch dog! Eunuch dog!"

    "A rootless coward without manhood! Laughable, ridiculous!"

    They hadn''t even reached him yet, but jeers rang out loudly. Every man and woman mocked Yun Xiao; they had no such physical ws, but he did.

    Seizing upon this, they despised and humiliated him without restraint.

    "Strip off his white robes!"

    "Let everyone in the Samsara Gxy see his shameful scar!"

    "Neither male nor female, the most despicable under heaven!"

    People were hypocrites. While shouting about rescuing celestial ves, they unabashedly mocked their opponent''s ws.

    Their aim was to break Yun Xiao''s defenses, to make him feel shame, humiliation, and pain.

    If Yun Xiao truly were a celestial ve, these mocking, ridiculing, and scornful gazes would indeed cause him suffering, especially with so many beautiful Immortals casting disdainful looks. This was the most merciless contempt, unbearable for any celestial ve.

    But unfortunately for them, Yun Xiao was wless.

    At that moment, the Alliance Army pressed forward with curses, their mocking voices shaking the heavens.

    But the white-robed youth, gripping an azure sword, calmly pointed it ahead.

    He swept his gaze over the endless ranks of geniuses and said, "Step forward, and your lives end here."

 Chapter 908: Nine Realms Ice Clouds, Dreamless Drifting Snow!

    "So he''s warning us that if we take one more step, we''ll lose our lives? Does he really think he can do it?"

    As Yun Xiao''s words echoed, the Alliance Army instantly grasped his intent, slightly awed by his boldness.

    But in the next instant, they burst into overwhelmingughter.

    "Only one step?"

    "I''ve taken two steps¡ªso what?"

    "I''ll take ten!"

    "Let''s go, brothers, trample him!"

    They not onlyughed but grew even more excited, eagerly stepping forward. One by one, they lifted their legs high, making sure Yun Xiao could see them advancing.

    "Die, you eunuch! Why don''t you punish us?""You make meugh! This pretentious fool thinks he''s a Boundless Immortal!"

    "He''s ridiculously amusing!"

    It was as if Yun Xiao had provided them with entertainment. For a moment, not only were theyughing at the scene, but the Million Starlight Pce was also swept by waves ofughter.

    "This fool is truly a reckless one..."

    Many elders in the Million Starlight Pce shook their heads.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao gazed coldly at the crowd approaching with wildughter.

    "I just issued a license to kill without guilt; what''s so funny about that?"

    His face was indifferent. After saying this, he transformed into a white storm, charging toward the Alliance Army!

    One man charging into 1,500 troops!

    That figure in white stood in stark contrast to the opposing army, the sharp contrast creating a powerful visual impact.

    Countless millions witnessed this scene in the Million Starlight Pce, their eyes narrowing slightly. Most hadn''t expected that this celestial ve wouldn''t maneuver tactically but would charge head-on!

    "So what if there''s 1,500 of you? I''ll still force my way through!"

    That white light suddenly expanded into a sphere, the power of three Burying Heaven grade cmities sweeping forth, making Yun Xiao appear even more imposing... This was his Corona, the effect of the Primordial Sphere.

    However,pared to the torrent of geniuses opposite him, it was still far too little.

    The crowd was like the bright moon; Yun Xiao was like a grain of rice!

    And in that instant, that tiny grain shot out a streak of azure light from his hand!

    That azure light carried the power of three cmities, with Yun Xiao''s Buddha''s Treasure Spirit seated upon it¡ªequivalent to a tiny figure wielding the Flying Sword, instantly soaring across the starry expanse!

    "Watch out for the Flying Sword!"

    One after another, casual and unhurried warnings spread.

    Their nonchnce was because Yun Xiao had only one Flying Sword, and with so many people present, even if the sword was strong, most believed they wouldn''t be the unlucky one!

    And in the next moment, they could gang up on Yun Xiao!

    Even now, they continued to mock andugh at him.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao''s azure spirit sword vanished, and a blizzard swept across the starry battlefield.

    "What the hell?"

    A genius from the Dragon Devil n in the Fourth Baptism Realm saw a sudden sh of azure light before his eyes.

    His mouth and the back of his head burst in a spray of blood!

    A piercing hole bored through his skull!

    He stood rigid, half his face still wearing a smile. But he was utterly dead!

    Even his spirit was seized by the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, exorcized in midair, perishing amidst his screams.

    A Dragon Devil n genius was in in an instant!

    This was the true might of Yun Xiao in the Third Baptism Realm, bearing a Boundless Corona.

    But was it over? This was only the beginning!

    In an instant, within the crowd, one genius after another¡ªstillughing¡ªhad their mouths and the backs of their heads precisely blown apart!

    One by one, their spirits were precisely exorcized by the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit!

    The Flying Sword swept across. Only a few managed to dodge in terror. Wherever the sword passed, bodies with pierced foreheads exploded and flew, each dying amidstughter, with only a flicker of astonishment in their eyes.

    So many tragic deaths urred at once. As the over 1,500 troops charged forward, chaos erupted!

    "He''s massacring us!"

    Screams spread. Faces that had been mocking turned to fear¡ªtongues tied, eyes nk.

    They halted in terror, not daring to take another step. Recalling Yun Xiao''s earlier warning, they felt chills down their spines, hair standing on end, and cold sweat on their foreheads... some even subconsciously covered their mouths!

    Over 1,500 geniuses were cowed in an instant!

    "One Flying Sword instantly killed dozens of geniuses from Heavenly Monarch sects. Who else in the Grand Assembly Arena can do that?"

    "His attack power is this fierce..."

    They all knew Yun Xiao was strong, but they hadn''t imagined he would be so overwhelming.

    They were geniuses, not mere chickens and dogs. Even those in the Fifth Baptism Realm shouldn''t be able to ughter them like foot soldiers!

    At that moment, many were indeed terrified.

    However, these people were worthy of being geniuses from various Heavenly Monarch sects.

    Mockery aside, once they realized the opponent was formidable, they adjusted immediately.

    "Two fists can''t fight four hands; he has only one sword!"

    "Let''s join forces to kill him!"

    "His attack is strong, but he has only one life!"

    This wasn''t a rallying cry from the Young Dragon Lord, but each genius quickly reacted.

    In the moment after their fright, these various geniuses unleashed their Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial treasure to clear the way.

    Demons, Martial Immortals, and others fixed their eyes on Yun Xiao, roaring as they charged forward!

    "One thousand five hundred geniuses of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, each chosen from among countless trillions. If we can''t kill a mere celestial ve, we might as well be worthless!"

    They held themselves in the highest esteem; none saw themselves as cannon fodder. In their own worlds, they were legends admired by an untold number of subjects¡ªunparalleled geniuses capable of building their own harems.

    The radiance formed by Flying Swords, Life Sigils, celestial treasures, and martial techniques surged like a tidal wave of stars, shing dazzling lights and erupting with grand, destructive roars, all crashing toward Yun Xiao.

    "Forget someone in the Fifth Baptism Realm¡ªeven those in the Sixth or Seventh Baptism Realm could die under ourbined assault!"

    "He wants to hold out? Tribtion power is limited! Except for Boundless Immortals, no one can fight endlessly!"

    These convictions were the very reason the Alliance Army did not fear Yun Xiao. In their minds, no matter how strong someone was, they would have to retreat before this group of future overlords of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    This was their belief!

    Facing this torrent of conviction, Yun Xiao, who had just retrieved his Flying Sword, showed no hint of carelessness in his eyes. Nor was there any fear!

    He remained as calm as ever, even somewhat carefree and graceful. His excellent state of mind allowed him to tread smoothly amidst such extreme assaults.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The light in his eyes changed!

    In the next instant, the three-inch Flying Sword beneath his feet transformed into a six-foot Sovereign Sword. Standing upon it, his robes fluttered, exuding an elegant demeanor.

    At the same time, he unfurled the violet Runic Umbre!

    The umbre''s ribs were formed by nine dragon heads, arrogantly overlooking all rivals.

    "Killing is just a game."

    The young man, riding his Sovereign Sword and holding the Runic Umbre, showed not a hint of fear as he charged forward, crashing into the destructive storm ahead!

    This time, it was truly one against over 1,000!

    It wasn''t against cannon fodder, but true elites!

    "He''s dead meat!"

    As Yun Xiao boldly faced the murderous charge, many geniuses had a gleam in their eyes, their mocking voices rising once more.

    "Did they cut off not just his manhood but his brain too?"

    They still dared tough!

    Amidst the overwhelming killing intent, Yun Xiao confronted the storm of Flying Swords, Life Sigils, celestial treasures, and various celestial techniques.

    Swarms of demons, Martial Immortals, and True Devils awaited, ready to pounce once his defenses crumbled.

    "Rise!" Yun Xiao''s expression remained unchanged as he advanced.

    <em>HUM! </em>He shook the Runic Umbre in his hand. Countless icy violet clouds surged up, condensing into nineyers. The clouds roiled like nine real worlds, forming a canopy above him.

    This was an Upper Burying Heaven grade celestial technique of the Harmony Divine Pce, known as the Nine Realms Ice Clouds. When the Nine Realms Ice Clouds manifested on the Runic Umbre, Yun Xiao seemed to exist in another realm, surrounded by nineyers of defense.

    As soon as the Nine Realms Ice Clouds appeared, the youths nearby couldn''t recognize it. But over at the Million Starlight Pce, it caused an incredible sensation¡ªthe sheer difficulty of this technique was beyond imagination.

    The nineyers of icy cloud waves enveloped Yun Xiao, causing countless geniuses to lose sight of him. They could only see the Nine Realms Ice Clouds crashing into the crowd. Many Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial treasures struck empty air, even colliding with each other, causing internal chaos.

    Within the violet clouds, it was as if a nine-headed dragon was soaring, rampaging through the crowd.

    But that wasn''t the end.

    In the next instant, snowkes began to drift over the battlefield, turning it bitterly cold. Amidst the falling snow, a streak of azure sword light glided through the ice clouds like a phantom, elusive and unpredictable.

    "Dreamless Drifting Snow! That''s the Sovereign Sword technique from the Yin Sword Embryo Sword Art!" A sudden wave of shock surged in the Million Starlight Pce.

    The astonishment had only just begun.

    With the Nine Realms Ice Clouds as his shield and Dreamless Drifting Snow as his de, the youth rolled up ice clouds and snowkes. It was as if he was riding his sword through the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, the azure sword tracing a defiant path as he charged across the battlefield.

    At that moment, Yun Xiao was like a cavalryman riding his sword, crashing into the crowd with incredible speed and extraordinary agility.

    Wherever his Sovereign Sword pointed, heads flew off in terror.

    "Ah?"

    The 1,500-strong Alliance Army, which had just steadied themselves, was instantly struck with fear. They turned and fled in panic, losing allposure as if they had seen the god of death.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 909: White Robe, Azure Sword, Violet Umbrella Massacre!

    <em>VROOM! VROOM! VROOM! </em>Yun Xiao freely rode around on his Sovereign Sword.

    The young man gripped his umbre and soared on his sword, gliding through the air like a skier. Around him, violet ice clouds swirled, and beneath his feet, countless azure snowkes danced.

    Where the violet and azure streaked past, heads flew, and blood sprayed across the sky.

    Overwhelming killing intent crashed into the Nine Realms Ice Clouds. Though it was an annihting bombardment, every attack sank like a stone in the sea; none could see how the youth evaded them.

    And when Yun Xiao slid before them amid the flurry of azure snowkes, those whose heads parted from their bodies didn''t even know how they died.

    With a swift sh, the gates of the underworld opened¡ªbodies severed, and souls released.

    It didn''t matter if you were a handsome youth or a gifted maiden, a rising star of a sect or the child of a sect master; anyone who had taken a step forward was already a corpse in that young man''s yes.

    "He''s wielding his sword and defending like this; he must be burning through massive amounts of tribtion power! With each kill, he''s getting weaker! Everyone, hold on!"

    Long Zhaochuan of the Dragon Devil n had already transformed. His body was covered in dragon scales, their heavy defense surpassing many celestial treasures. His towering frame, over nine feet tall, was as sturdy as a demon. He outmatched many pure Martial Immortals."Kill!"

    Under the rallying cries of Long Zhaochuan and other core disciples of the Elysian Immortal Pce, the disarrayed Alliance Army finally steadied itself. Enraged, they cursed andunched a counterattack against Yun Xiao.

    "Die, eunuch dog!"

    "Grind this seedless ve to dust!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Damn it! He''s truly despicable..."

    Their courage to fight back came frommon knowledge: everyone''s tribtion power in battle wasn''t infinite. The more you had, the harder it was to replenish on the spot.

    With 1,500 troops, they could slowly chip away at him until he waspletely exhausted!

    And with the attacks from various geniuses present, whether Yun Xiao dodged, shifted, or deflected, it all consumed vast amounts of energy.

    "Die!" Another Samsara Disciple of the Elysian Immortal Pce, Yun Hengyu, sneered, summoning his peers to encircle Yun Xiao.

    He was 20 years older than the Ancestral Land''s Zu Wei, and hisbat strength even matched hers.

    Under the leadership of Long Zhaochuan, Yun Hengyu, and other renowned talents of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, a siege and counterattack swiftly took shape, aiming to wear Yun Xiao down. ?

    "A war of attrition?"

    With terrifying speed, Yun Xiao darted through the crowd, ughtering wildly. Even the spinning umbre in his hand could slice foes in half.

    "Then let''s see whosts longer."

    His Primordial Sphere expanded, forming a domainrger than the Nine Realms Ice Clouds. It was bolstered by the Boundless Light, continuously absorbing the energy of heaven and earth, always at Yun Xiao''s disposal.

    It was thanks to the Corona that Yun Xiao, wielding the power of the Third Baptism Realm, could ughter opponents far beyond his level.

    Empowered by the Primordial Sphere, a slight smile curved his lips. Gripping his umbre with both hands, he used the Prison Warden Sigil for defense, while the six-foot Sovereign Sword beneath his feet became his spearhead of attack.

    Though just one man, he moved like an invincible war chariot¡ªunstoppable and indestructible¡ªcharging into the throng of geniuses. He pushed the art of daoist magic and swordsmanship to their limits; evenparing him to a slippery loach didn''t do him justice.

    With a sweeping sh, the azure de of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul spun, tracing a dazzling arc through the air, severing the heads of seven prodigies in one stroke.

    These were the hopes of various sects, each a talent destined to be Heavenly Monarchs, future pirs of their worlds. Yet under Yun Xiao''s assault, they were like chives being harvested in batches¡ªnot even given time to scream before being dispatched on the spot.

    The densely packed Alliance Army felt their scalps tingle. Clinging to hope, they pressed the attack, only to watch those like themselves cut down like grass.

    "We were just here to show support. Losing our lives over this¡ªisn''t that a real loss?"

    Soon, the realization dawned on them.

    On second thought, something wasn''t right.

    They were supposed to bolster the ranks; why were they being used as cannon fodder, letting this monstrous celestial ve ughter them?

    What made their hearts tremble even more was¡ª

    "How is this damned eunuch''s tribtion power so endless?!"

    He should have been exhausted by now! Once his power ran dry, he''d be like a bird with broken wings, awaiting death. But how many had he killed already? Why was he growing fiercer with each kill?

    "Any elder at the Fifth Baptism Realm would''ve died dozens of times over under our siege!"

    "Why won''t he die? Not only that, he''s getting more and more energized!"

    This hopeless terror spread among them like poison. Even though the geniuses of the Alliance Army scorned Yun Xiao''s <em>defect</em>, they couldn''t ignore the absurd monstrosity of hisbat prowess.

    "This castrated dog is a freak!"

    "He really doesn''t get tired!"

    "Don''t go up there; dying is a huge loss! Let the Dragon Devil n and the Elysian Immortal Pce handle it¡ªthey''re the ones who gathered us and forced us to take sides...!"

    Those qualified to participate in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects weren''t fools. Realizing Yun Xiao was like a fiend, they knew whether it was worth risking their lives to curry favor with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Elysian Immortal Pce.

    Seeing no hope of wearing down Yun Xiao, the second encirclement of the Alliance Army copsed once more. The Heavenly Monarch sect prodigies watched him soar toward them on his Sovereign Sword, chills running down their spines. They turned and fled frantically, forgetting everything else, caring only about saving their lives.

    They ran as far as they could!

    Among them, some had no choice but to stand their ground.

    These were the disciples of the Dragon Devil n, Elysian Immortal Pce, and sects tightly bound to these two superpowers¡ªmost hailing from Empyrean Emperor Sects.

    For instance, Yang Yang and Liu Liu from the zing Yang Sect were still present.

    Seeing Yun Xiao now far more formidable than before, this pair of lovebirds felt bewildered and uneasy.

    Yet, surrounded by the Dragon Devil n, they didn''t dare to flee.

    They could only steel themselves and charge forward!

    "All or nothing!" Yang Yang howled, his voice turning shrill. His handsome face contorted grotesquely, harboring untold hatred.

    But to his utter surprise, after ncing at him, Yun Xiao tilted his sword upward, soaring over their heads to ughter the disciples of the Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce.

    Breathing heavily, Yang Yang grabbed Liu Liu''s delicate shoulder and roared, "What does he mean by this? Why won''t he fight me? Is he mocking me? He''s also a celestial ve¡ªwhat right does he have to look down on me!"

    "Yang Yang, please..." Liu Liu wept bitterly, hurriedly saying, "You''re not a celestial ve. Celestial ves are the oppressed of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm; you just..."

    Hearing the pity in his beloved''s eyes, Yang Yang felt as if 1,000 swords pierced his heart. He shoved Liu Liu away and roared, "Eunuch... Yun Xiao, I''ll fight you to the death!"

    No sooner had he spoken, before he could even rush halfway, he saw ahead the corpses of the Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce''s core disciples raining down like a torrential downpour, each dying with eyes wide open.

    And all of these people were far stronger than him!

    Yun Xiao was cutting down these arrogant Dragon Devil n members and self-proimed noble Elysian Immortal Pce disciples like chopping melons and slicing vegetables¡ªone sh per person, not even needing a second strike!

    "He''s too powerful..." Liu Liu clutched Yang Yang''s arm, staring nkly at the rampaging white figure, her voice trembling, eyes filled with fear.

    "Powerful? What are you saying! Do you admire him?" Yang Yang suddenly pped her across the face, snarling at her.

    Half of Liu Liu''s face turned red from the p. She was utterly stunned, never expecting that the once elegant gentleman beside her had be so cowardly and sensitive, like a beaten stray dog with its tail between its legs, only daring to vent his anger on those close to him.

    Liu Liu dared not say anything more. With tears in her eyes, she looked at him, knowing how agonizing it was for a man to lose his dignity. Everything before them was endless torment for Yang Yang¡ªa torment that would haunt him for a lifetime. Every gaze was a nightmare; perhaps even the words <em>celestial ve</em> were daggers piercing his heart...

 Chapter 910: Three Manly Men!

    "How could that celestial ve ignore the scorn and ridicule of others, and with his own might, strike fear into countless geniuses?"

    Liu Liu watched Yang Yang going hysterical, snarling like a wild dog. Then she turned her gaze to Yun Xiao, graceful in demeanor, treating killing as an art.

    She couldn''t fathom it. Both were celestial ves; why was there such a vast chasm between them?

    Even though the youth in white was iplete, she couldn''t help but feel a surge of admiration.

    "One man, challenging so many geniuses of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Even if he''s a celestial ve, he''s a legend..."

    At that moment, many shared Liu Liu''s thoughts. Frenzied, people fled the scene. Yet as they nced back at the youth who killed with every step, awe welled up uncontrobly within them.

    The first prerequisite of awe was respect!

    Awe and fear were worlds apart.

    Their feelings toward Yun Xiao had shifted. No longer did they look upon him with contempt or fear; instead, deep reverence took root. They couldn''t imagine what kind of spirit this was.Offering Personal Pledges was often mere coercion, but what truly conquered others was unparalleled strength and unshakeable courage. This kind of personal charisma could rival the intimidating power of the super sects behind the Dragon Devil n and the Elysian Immortal Pce.

    Long Hao and his cohort rallied so many to their cause by leveraging the might of their backgrounds.

    "He''s not even worn out yet!"

    "Those disciples of the Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce can''ty a finger on him!"

    Sure enough, when most of the Heavenly Monarch sect disciples fled and ceased to encircle Yun Xiao, the core disciples of the Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce bore the brunt. Yun Xiao charged at them up close.

    Among them, Long Zhaochuan and Yun Hengyu, who had been barking orders, found themselves locked in the gaze of those cold, eerie eyes.

    "Young Dragon Lord!" A chill ran down Long Zhaochuan''s spine as he cried out in terror.

    In that moment, the youth before him soared with his Sovereign Sword, blood spraying around. Yet, he glided effortlessly while holding an umbre. The look in his eyes¡ªa mix of disdain, crushing dominance, and nonchnce¡ªmade even a genius like Long Zhaochuan feel his soul flee in fright.

    <em>SLASH! SLASH!</em>

    "Long Zhaochuan and Yun Hengyu have been in!"

    "He single-handedly ughtered over 300 geniuses!"

    "One man did this, one man! It was just him alone!"

    Watching the disciples of the Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce being massacred, recalling their earlier jeers and mockery toward this celestial ve, and contrasting it with their current terror and panicked flight, many stood as mere spectators, their hearts a whirl of mixed emotions.

    They had saved their own lives, and those they cared about were unharmed. Most weren''t inclined to feel sorrow. What they felt toward the events unfolding before them was shock, awe, and utter bewilderment.

    "This celestial ve is invincible!"

    "Incredible! Though not a man, he disyed the spirit of an unrivaled hero beneath the heavens!"

    "Even so, he''s not a Boundless Immortal. He must be nearing exhaustion. Those Young Dragon Lords are extremely clever and cautious. Now that he''s worn down to this extent, aren''t they going to make their move?"

    While the Alliance Army''s geniuses were filled with profound awe toward Yun Xiao, they couldn''t help but look for his opponents.

    But there was no need to search any longer. As Yun Xiao ughteredrge swaths of geniuses, sending everyone fleeing in panic, the true leaders of the Alliance Army¡ªthe most exalted young figures in the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River¡ªdescended directly before him.

    Did they appear now to mend the pen after the sheep had been lost, or, as others said, to first use cannon fodder to wear him down before making a grand entrance?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Surely, the geniuses present all knew the answer in their hearts.

    "Prepare to die!"

    A majestic dragon''s roar, like the sh of bells and drums, resounded above Yun Xiao''s head.

    He bent his body with ease, stepping off his Sovereign Sword. Separating from his de, he effortlessly dodged a golden dragon-shaped sword beam. How graceful was his movement?

    Like a skier reaching the finish line, pressing down on his skis to leap¡ªthe six-foot Sovereign Sword bounced and spun in the air, sketching an azure arc. The youth in white casually grasped it, and it became a three-foot azure de.

    In his other hand, he held a violet umbre.

    White robes, azure sword, and violet umbre¡­ his long hair fluttered as he turned amidst 1,000 troops, gazing calmly ahead.

    Before him, three figures descended.

    In the center stood a man d in golden dragon robes. Tworge golden horns towered high; his nose was sharp like a sword''s edge. Standing ten feet tall like a humanoid dragon, his eyes zed with fire. He was none other than the Young Dragon Lord of the Golden Dragons¡ªLong Hao.

    To his left was a blood-haired youth as tall as Long Hao, slender, sinister, and exuding a demonic aura.

    This was naturally another Young Dragon Lord, of the Blood Dragons¡ªLong Kun.

    To Long Hao''s right stood someone about the same height as Yun Xiao. Yet his aura was in no way inferior to the two Young Dragon Lords. One could sense he possessed a Martial Immortal physique simr to that of the Sea Lineage Martial Immortals from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªlike Wan Ji and her daughters. However, unlike theirs, his Martial Immortal physique was not the yin attribute; it emphasized grandeur, weight, and vastness.

    At the same time, this blue-robed youth also possessed exquisite soul power. If nothing unexpected, he was also an Anima Immortal.

    Dual cultivation of Martial and Anima Arts¡ªthat was truly rare, marking him as a special talent. No wonder this Zhao Cann could rise all the way, bing the protagonist-like legend of the Elysian Immortal Pce.

    "Long Hao, Long Kun, and Zhao Cann!

    These three were the mightiest geniuses in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena, all ranked within the top ten¡ªperhaps even the top five¡ªinbat prowess.

    Before the age of 50, they had reached the Fifth Baptism Realm, rivaling elders who were over 100 years old. Their destinies surelyy in the Eighth Baptism Realm... perhaps even ascending to be Boundless Immortals.

    Now, witnessing Yun Xiao''s ruthless massacre, the mockery in Long Kun and Zhao Cann''s eyes had vanished, reced by fierce killing intent.

    As for Long Hao, recalling that humiliating disgrace, his fury burned even hotter. He had initially held back, sending cannon fodder to wear down Yun Xiao. Only when the fodder fled and their core disciples of the Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce were in did they feelpelled to act.

    They rushed forth, determined to turn the tide.

    Now, after Yun Xiao''s ughter, he faced these three Fifth Baptism Realm opponents head-on. In everyone''s minds, the pressure on him was immense.

    Yet, confronting their wrath, killing intent, and cold severity, Yun Xiao merely raised an eyebrow and said casually, "Just you three? Where are your women? Don''t hide them¡ªare they afraid I''ll have some fun?"

    "Ha!" The blood-haired Long Kun couldn''t help butugh, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Please, tell me¡ªhow can a castrated dog like you have any fun? What tricks can you possibly pull off? If you''re just looking to get a feel, you''d better rest. It only highlights how pitiful and pathetic your life is¡ªyou can''t humiliate anyone."

    "Are you serious?" Yun Xiao replied coldly. "I have a certain w; I can''t resist when someone provokes me. If you insist on pushing me, I have no principles or bottom line."

    Long Kun chuckled. "Really? Then I eagerly await your bottom line. As they say, the more someonecks, the more they care. You don''t have that thing, yet you keep fixating on women. Don''t you realize how pathetic you are?"

    "Enough!" Long Hao snarled, his eyes bloodshot as he red at Yun Xiao. How could he hold back any longer?

    Besides, he knew that now was likely when Yun Xiao was most exhausted. After finally wearing him down, how could he give him a chance to catch his breath?

    "Kill him!"

    Like Long Hao, another person was equally anxious. It was the Young Dragon Consort, Shen Nanyin, surrounded and protected by the disciples of the Dragon Devil n and Elysian Immortal Pce in the distance.

    Seeing Yun Xiao¡ªthe fiend haunting her heart¡ªughter once again, Shen Nanyin turned pale with fright. Her delicate body trembled uncontrobly, even convulsed, as if the disgraceful humiliation of the past were reying, leaving her gasping for breath.

    At this moment, her face was ashen, her breathingbored. Pointing at Yun Xiao, she shouted angrily, "Husband, quickly y this worthless eunuch dog! Tear him to pieces!"

    Beside her, the blood-haired Shi Feifei didn''t seem anxious at all. Rolling her eyes, she supported Shen Nanyin and said, "Nanyin, don''t worry. Let them toy with that eunuch to the death; killing him outright would be too boring."

    Shen Nanyin''s heart pounded; she couldn''t find words, her gaze fixed on Yun Xiao, eyes filled with murderous intent and humiliation.

    "In terms of character, this celestial ve must have some defect, which is why his personality is so twisted. He''s an exceptionally dangerous individual and absolutely cannot be left alive... However, it''s undeniable that hisbat prowess is truly astonishing."

    These words came from the number one beauty, Yun Lingchen, beside them. This little fairy, like a white rabbit, gazed at Yun Xiao with a slightly peculiar expression.

    She had intended to join the battle, but Zhao Cann had strongly urged her to watch from the sidelines, lest the eunuch''s dirty blood stain her. After some thought, she decided not to go.

    "No matter how astonishing he is, it''s useless. Now that his tribtion power is exhausted, the longer it drags on, the more it shows he''s at the end of his rope. Those three great men are all extraordinary talents with rich bloodlines; taking down this fiendish eunuch dog will be all too easy." Shi Feifei crossed her arms, her face full of disdain.

    Only she dared to show contempt for Yun Xiao, which showed her strong confidence in her husband, Long Kun.

    Men of the Dragon Devil n were stalwart and exceptional, serving as paragons among all men.

    "Yes,pared to them, this celestial ve is so disgusting, despicable, lewd..." Shen Nanyin babbled on, as if poisoned, her hands clenched tightly, still anxious.

    "Why do I feel that, in terms of looks, he''s quite handsome..." Yun Lingchen said softly.

    "Lingchen," Shi Feifei chuckled, leaning close to her ear and saying coyly, "You''re still young and don''t quite understand. No matter how handsome a man is, if he''s missing that part, he''s useless¡ªa waste¡ªnot interesting at all."

    "Really?" Yun Lingchen bit her lip.

    "By the way, you and that handsome Zhao Cann..." Shi Feifei waggled her eyebrows, giggling.

    "No, our rtionship isn''t like that!" Yun Lingchen quickly waved her hands. "We''re just friends; don''t say such things."

    "I understand, I understand. After all, your status is higher than his; of course, you''d wait until after marriage." Shi Feifei smiled slyly, then winked. "But a talented man and a beautiful woman¡ªa golden couple¡ªenvied by all. Perhaps after this Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, your wedding will be soon..."

    Before Shi Feifei could finish, Yun Lingchen seemed unwilling to discuss this topic. Instead, her eyes sharpened as she pointed toward the battlefield. "They''ve started fighting¡ªhe''s taking on all three at once..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 911: Yin Convergence!

    Chapter 911: Yin Convergence!

    Long Hao, Long Kun, and Zhao Cann!

    These three pinnacle geniuses in the Fifth Baptism Realm united to engage in a fierce battle, not only thrilling the 1,000 geniuses present but also capturing the intense attention of the countless spectators in the Million Starlight Pce.

    No one underestimated their opponents; each gave their all, fighting with everything they had in a life-and-death struggle.

    The three adversaries moved, appearing in front of Yun Xiao, behind him, and above.

    The most enraged, Long Hao, stood directly in front of him!

    The sinister and cold blood-haired Long Kun was behind Yun Xiao, his eyes malevolent.

    As for Zhao Cann, towering over Yun Xiao, standing with his hands behind his back, the power of the five cmities surged in his hands like the five great seas, wielding the might of a sea god that overshadowed Yun Xiao, his demeanor exuding supreme grace.

    The golden-haired Long Hao gave Yun Xiao no time to recover. As soon as the battlefield opened, he unleashed a thunderous dragon roar, charging at Yun Xiao like a divine golden dragon in a fierce assault!

    A seven-foot-long golden sword appeared in his hand,rger and wider than Yun Xiao''s Sovereign Sword.But in truth, it was Long Hao''s Palm Sword!

    The surface of the sword was densely covered in golden feathers. They looked like bird feathers but were actually sword-shaped dragon scales. They were all Sword Prisons!

    Possessing over 1,000 Sword Prisons ced Long Hao at the highest peak among the young geniuses of the Samsara Gxy!

    Driven by hatred, Long Hao transformed into a Dragon Devil, his body and strength overwhelmingly ferocious, surpassing his fellow Martial Immortals at the same level, making himparable to demons. His golden dragon scales were unyielding. Even his head transformed into that of a dragon, exuding greater majesty and dominance.

    Possessing a demon''s body yet the lethal power of a Sword Immortal, this was the capital of the Dragon Devil n, rivaling the Ancestral Land and the Dual Corona talent of the Elysian Immortal Pce.

    Long Hao was a fusion of man, sword, and dragon, his imperial might vast and the aura of a ster river overlord truly spine-chilling.

    Even though Yun Xiao had been exceptionally formidable, Long Hao''s disy of divine power ignited excitement and anticipation in many!

    "Myriad Feathered Dragon Sword Soul!"

    "It seems the young Dragon Lord also has the Dragonthorn Corona, which can greatly enhance the Sword Soul''s lethality. It''s said that the Corona''s effect can double the power of the Sword Prisons."

    As the crowd fervently discussed, it was evident that the golden Corona atop Long Hao''s head had already enhanced his Sword Soul. The augmentation called the Dragonthorn Corona was attached to the Sword Soul, making each dragon-shaped sword scale of the Myriad Feathered Dragon Sword Soul exude a fierce killing aura. It was as if each feather had split into a thorn with two barbs!

    Combined with the Corona, Long Hao''s oppressive presence almost rivaled the 1,000 geniuses. With his towering ten-foot frame, he embodied the gantry of a world-ss hero, naturally causing women like Shen Nanyin to have trembling eyes filled with admiration.

    Long Hao was the very embodiment of might and tyranny, while behind Yun Xiao stood Long Kun, the epitome of sinister malice. Long Kun wielded the power of the Blood Prison Dragon, reminiscent of Feng Yao, making him the male counterpart to the fierce Feng Yao.

    However, Feng Yao''s blood was that of a Mortal Dust Devil, a depth Long Kun could never match.

    Long Kun also transformed into a Dragon Devil, his body adorned with blood-red dragon scales that made him resemble a blood dragon reaper. His visage was far more ferocious than Long Hao¡¯s, with blood-streaked scales and sharp spines that ttered with each movement, showcasing his formidable fleshly prowess.

    Despite his savage physique, he was an Inscription Immortal. In his grasp was the Crimson Nether Dragon Sigil, while his corona took on a defensive form,yering his blood-red scales with the Blood Star Dragon Armor that shimmered like a crimson starry sky. This made him appear not only bloodthirsty but also imbued with the profound depth of the night sky.

    The two young Dragon Lords¡ªone domineering, the other malevolent¡ªstood before and behind Yun Xiao, their presence as formidable as the entire Alliance Army. Their might inspired immense confidence among those on the battlefield and in the Million Starlight Pce.

    Yet, the crowd soon realized that Zhao Cann, the legendary disciple from the Elysian Immortal Pce, despitecking physical prowess, was no less formidable than his peers.

    Though Zhao Cann¡¯s stature was smaller, as an Anima and Martial Immortal, his fleshly body was as vast as the boundless sea. To the eye, he seemed insignificant, but in truth, his presence was as immense as a thousand-mile tsunami, exerting relentless pressure.

    Most striking was his Corona. While others bore circr Coronas, Zhao Cann¡¯s resembled a guqin, its blue form resting atop his head. As the strings moved, everyone¡¯s spirits quivered. It was clear that this Corona was the key to Zhao Cann¡¯s soul power.

    ¡°It''s said that Zhao Cann has transcended his level to master two Burying Heaven grade celestial treasures! These divine weapons are typically wielded only by Heavenly Monarchs¡­¡±

    Just as the crowd¡¯s voices trailed off, the legendary Burying Heaven grade celestial treasures manifested in Zhao Cann¡¯s hands.

    In his left hand, a blue cloth was wrapped tightly. This was no ordinary fabric; it was adorned with endless wave-like runic patterns that mirrored the shimmering starlight, resembling a starry ocean floor.

    In his right hand, he grasped a silver warhammer, ten feet in length¡ªseveral timesrger than his own body¡ªbut he controlled it with unwavering stability.

    ¡°Sky Sea Silk, Ster Ocean Hammer!¡±

    The might of these two celestial treasures elicited countless cheers from the crowd, stirring the Million Starlight Pce.

    At this moment, Zhao Cann stood as the wless protagonist people had envisioned¡ªhis subtle smile, flowing hair, and blue robes radiated sunlight and approachability.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Lacking the Dragon Devil n¡¯s superior fleshly talents, Zhao Cann nheless exuded an aura that subtly surpassed the two Young Dragon Lords. His appearance brought immense honor to the Elysian Immortal Pce, leaving their elders brimming with pride.

    "Truly handsome." Shi Feifei couldn''t help but lightly bite her red lips in admiration.

    Of course, admiration aside, she dared not speak aloud. After all, the men of the Dragon Devil n were exceedingly brutal and could not tolerate such remarks.

    Moreover, her admiration was fleeting. If she were to truly pursue Zhao Cann, the racial differences alone would make satisfaction impossible, especially since this handsome man barely reached the height of her waist.

    She felt at ease, while Yun Lingchen beside her seemed deeply engrossed in observing Zhao Cann''s abilities. Only Shen Nanyin appeared truly unsettled, her fists clenched, eyes bloodshot, and teeth gritted as she growled, "Kill that castrated dog! Kill! Kill!"

    Her hatred for Yun Xiao was palpable, indicating that the effects of the Soulfire Eye had nearly dissipated.

    Long Hao, Long Kun, and Zhao Cann each bore cold, sinister gazes, never overstepping their bounds. Regardless of their self-importance, they simultaneously advanced to eliminate their formidable enemy.

    Zhao Cann took charge of suppression!

    Long Kun was responsible for striking at any openings!

    Meanwhile, Long Hao, positioned directly ahead, naturally drew most of Yun Xiao''s attention, engaging in a head-on sh!

    With a sweeping motion of his hands, the golden-haired Long Hao transformed into a furious golden dragon, unleashing a surge of golden sword energy that tore through the sky. Like a several-hundred-meter-long dragon, he lunged toward Yun Xiao''s head!

    <em>Three Thousand me Dragon sh!</em>

    Harnessing the ferocious might of a beast, Long Hao channeled the power of five cmities into his Corona and the Myriad Feathered Dragon Sword Soul. Under this brutal force, the sword soul emitted a deafening dragon roar, radiating brilliant light!

    With a single strike, though it was just one sword, it seemed as if 3,000 me dragons surged downward, slicing toward Yun Xiao''s head. The dazzling mes momentarily blinded many, and the searing sound of the sword cut through the air, igniting even more fervent cheers from the crowd!

    As Long Hao''s sword strikended, blood-colored vortices sprang up around Yun Xiao. These crimson whirlpools resembled gaping abysses, spewing blood-red mes that lunged at him!

    This was undoubtedly an attack from Long Kun''s Crimson Nether Dragon Sigil, its malevolent power rivaling Long Hao''s fierce assault!

    As for Zhao Cann, he was the only one slightly less wary of Yun Xiao, positioning his attack for the next wave. Judging by the movements of his Dreamsong Guqin Corona and two celestial treasures, his solitary assault as the second wave could very well be the final blow to Yun Xiao!

    It all depended on their coordination!

    The trio''sbined efforts unleashed a deadly onught, showcasing their profound anger and revulsion toward the celestial ve!

    "Castrated dog!!" Long Hao''s golden roar wasden with immense shame. This strike left everyone dumbfounded!

    His raging fury starkly contrasted with the calmposure Yun Xiao maintained while being besieged.

    ¡°All I did was tease her a bit. Why get so worked up?¡±

    Despite the opponent''s intense anger, Yun Xiao merely smiled faintly.

    Though he was smiling, his hand moved swiftly! He gripped the three-foot-long azure de in his right hand.

    The Heaven Burial Sword Soul seemed like a mere toypared to the Myriad Feathered Dragon Sword Soul!

    Wielding this <em>toy sword</em>, Yun Xiao effortlessly thrust forward!

    ¡°Extreme Yin, Yin Convergence!¡±

    This was one of the forms of the Yin Sword Embryo left behind by the Second Founder of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Only Yu Ji had mastered it! Even her sister the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen hadn''t!

    At that moment, Yun Xiao wielded the Yin Convergence with ease and grace. His posture and demeanor were so rxed, exuding an arrogance that drove the golden-haired Long Hao to the brink of madness.

    ¡°So what!¡±

    As Long Hao raged and swung his sword in fury, Yun Xiao''s seemingly simple strike emerged. The sword tip resembled thergest vortex between heaven and earth, a maelstrom that devoured the world''s warmth, converging into a single point!

    <em>BOOM! </em>Before Long Hao''s angry sh could reach Yun Xiao, all the zing fire on his body and sword surged toward the <em>origin point</em> at Yun Xiao''s sword tip!

    Though it was just a single point, in that moment of voraciously absorbing the world''s heat, it instantly transformed into an icy azure vortex. This distorted space clung to the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, continuously expanding before morphing into a double-headed serpent entwined around the sword!

    This double-headed serpent symbolized the two founders of the Harmony Divine Pce. As soon as the serpent appeared, countless people in the Million Starlight Pce recognized the sword and erupted in astonishment!

 Chapter 912: Humiliation For All to See

    Chapter 912: Humiliation For All to See

    A twin-headed serpent coiled upon the sword¡ªsmall at first nce, yet when it raised its heads, the terror it invoked surpassed even Long Hao''s golden dragon sword.

    In that instant, two mighty Sword Souls shed. It was the biting and devouring of the furious golden dragon and the twin-headed serpent¡ªthe violent collision of scorching heat and extreme cold.

    At first, the furious golden dragon suppressed the twin-headed serpent, forcing Yun Xiao to step back. But in the next heartbeat, the serpent devoured the dragon''s raging mes, growing stronger once more, and bit into the Myriad Feathered Dragon Sword Soul.

    Yun Xiao thrust his sword forward. A torrent of cold surged out as the Yin Convergence exploded, a devastating force of ice and snow smothering the Dragon Devil''s fury.

    <em>BOOM! </em>Long Hao, his golden hair gleaming, was stunned. His face changed dramatically as he hastily withdrew his sword and leapt back. Yet, despite his quick reaction, he was still struck by the Yin Convergence, his whole body sent flying backward.

    His golden dragon armor suddenly burst with hundreds of sword marks. The once scorching dragon armor was now covered in frost, his entire figure dyed white.

    Even the Myriad Feathered Dragon Sword Soul bore several cracks.

    At that moment, the Young Dragon Lord trembled along with his sword, unable to control himself, letting out a hysterical cry of pain. The bone-chilling cold pierced to the marrow; just imagining it made onlookers gasp.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    This scene set the crowd aze.Long Hao, with his imposing aura, had shed out in fury. Yet, Yun Xiao had casually thrust his sword and broke through his attack, even counterattacking to wound him.

    "If the Young Dragon Lord didn''t have a strong enough body and the Dragon Devil transformation, he''d already be a bloody corpse!"

    Everyone understood the oue clearly.

    The icy tempest unleashed by the Yin Convergence swept over hundreds of people.

    The Young Dragon Lord''s suppressed cries of pain and his shocked, incredulous expression were etched deeply into everyone''s memory.

    But there was no time to catch their breath. Yun Xiao wasn''t dueling one-on-one; his sword that repelled the golden-haired Long Hao was only part of the battle.

    Long Kun and Zhao Cann were no pushovers. Long Hao had fought at the front, enduring Yun Xiao''s sword, to create an opening for their deadly assault.

    Their sess was the only hope in Long Hao''s heart at this unbearable moment.

    "Eunuch dog, die! Die!" Long Hao eximed, his eyes wide as he longed to see Yun Xiao meet his end.

    In the meantime, Long Kun had cast Ten Thousand Fiends Blood Devour with his Crimson Nether Dragon Sigil. The celestial technique lunged forward like a horde of dragons devouring the heavens, engulfing Yun Xiao.

    "Die, you spineless wretch!" Long Kun sneered, appearing behind Yun Xiao, his body shrouded in a sinister blood-red me, as poisonous as venom.

    In a heartbeat, Yun Xiao was swallowed by the blood prison.

    "Ah!!"

    The crowd''s eyes widened in terror at the sight.

    Before most could even begin to celebrate, a brilliant violet light red within the swirling blood prison, apanied by the roars of nine divine dragons.

    <em>BOOM! </em>As divine might erupted, countless violet mes ignited the blood prison, devouring its power and forming a violet tornado that sted outward.

    "What..."

    Long Kun''s face changed as he was thrown back by the tempest. Torrents of violet energy surged into his body, and even the wind des sliced through his dragon scales!

    "Nine Yin Wind Dragon Explosion!"

    The name of this celestial technique spread rapidly through the Million Starlight Pce, uttered in breathless tones.

    "Dodge!"

    Before anyone could process their shock, Zhao Cann leaped into action. Serving as the grand finale, he saw that the attacks of the two Young Dragon Lords had failed to take down Yun Xiao, and his expression grew intensely serious.

    "This guy has nothing to lose¡ªis he unleashing his innate talents in madness?" Zhao Cann muttered.

    He fused his spirit with his Dreamsong Guqin Corona, and he yed a tune called the Great Dream Heartless Melody, sending sonic waves sweeping toward Yun Xiao.

    At the same time, he descended from the sky, the massive Ster Ocean Hammer in his hand smashing down like a fragment of an annihting starry sky. His left hand wielded the Sky Sea Silk, which unfurled like a giant curtain of heaven and earth¡ªa map of rivers and mountains¡ªencircling Yun Xiao, aiming to bind him.

    It was a three-pronged attack!

    The Great Dream Heartless Melody confounded the mind, the Sky Sea Silk bound the body, and the Ster Ocean Hammer delivered the fatal blow!

    This was Zhao Cann''s full might unleashed.

    Among them, the Great Dream Heartless Melody, enhanced by his Anima Immortal soul power and Corona, was virtually unstoppable.

    Even many Anima Immortals couldn''t resist the interference of this melody, falling into the illusion, their lives at Zhao Cann''s mercy.

    "Die!" Zhao Cann struck down with full confidence.

    Suddenly, Yun Xiao raised his head, a sly smile ying at the corner of his mouth. He said casually, "Just ying the guqin? Why not also y the flute to add some excitement?"

    "..." Zhao Cann froze in stunned silence.

    How could the Great Dream Heartless Melody be ineffective?

    He hadn''t even had time to react when Yun Xiao suddenly vanished from his attack range. His Sky Sea Silk lost its target, and the Ster Ocean Hammer smashed into empty space. The immense force missing its mark caused a bacsh that made him spit blood in difort.

    "Ugh!" Zhao Cann''s vision darkened; he was almost dragged away by the exceedingly heavy Ster Ocean Hammer in his hand. If that had happened, he would have been utterly humiliated.

    He could only force himself to steady as his mind was spinning.

    "Three of us besieged him, he withstood it all, and even left all three of us injured?"

    This suffocating truth sent a sudden chill down his spine.

    Zhao Cann whipped his head around, his first reaction to look at Yun Lingchen. The rabbit-eared girl covered her mouth, gazing at the scene in disbelief, eyes filled with deep shock.

    This meant that Zhao Cann had be a mere prop to someone else''s stage!

    He had risen to prominence, stepping over countless strong enemies, forging a myth of defying the heavens. It was always others who served as his backdrop. How could it be reversed today?

    Looking again at Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei... The once arrogant Shi Feifei now stood frozen, chest heaving, breathing heavily, her beautiful eyes trembling.

    As for Shen Nanyin, she had retreated several steps, her whole body trembling, face pale as death, lost and dejected, eyes filled with despair.

    From utmost hatred, she suddenly became the most fearful. The thing she dreaded most had happened, like a nightmare now looming over her!

    The man she revered most, Long Hao, now had a pallid face. He was covered in frosted wounds and gravely injured, having lost nearly half hisbat strength.

    Long Kun, once full of confidence, now had terror in his eyes, looking left and right, roaring incessantly like a frightened beast.

    Even Zhao Cann, in the best condition among them, held his breath deeply. Blood seeped from the corner of his mouth due to the bacsh from missing his attack. He couldn''t deceive anyone. The power of the Ster Ocean Hammer was too great; it would cause recoil.

    These three once-mighty, dependable, legendary genius men¡ªtheir humiliation was seen not only by their women but also by the Alliance Army and all the elders of the Million Starlight Pce present.

    Countless people turned pale, contemting uneptable oues.

    Long Hao, Long Kun, and Zhao Cann felt even more ufortable under these gazes, only able to growl lowly to uphold their authority. But deep in their eyes, that confidence had already begun to wane.

    "No, no, that eunuch wasn''t this strongst time..." Shen Nanyin''s eyes widened as she looked at her own man, covered in wounds, shaking her head in disbelief, her heart wrenching.

    Even more terrifying was that she realized she couldn''t locate Yun Xiao at the moment!

    "Where is he? Where is he?" Shen Nanyin cried out in horror.

    As she shouted, Shi Feifei beside her let out a shriek, staring at Shen Nanyin, scrambling backward in terror.

    Just then, a ghostly voice rang out behind her, "I heard you wanted to kill me to wash away your shame?"

    "Ah..." Shen Nanyin felt like she''d been struck by lightning. Her graceful figure trembled, numb all over.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 913: Two Pointless Hostages!

    "Young Dragon Consort!"

    When that figure in white reappeared behind Shen Nanyin''s graceful nine-foot form, those who saw it were either terrified or wide-eyed in disbelief.

    Yesterday''s humiliation was mostly hearsay; few had witnessed it firsthand. The rumors were wild, saying the celestial ve had repeatedly brought unimaginable humiliation.

    And now, was round two about to happen?

    So, the more the people of the Dragon Devil n watched, the more furious and aggrieved they became.

    For ordinary folks, unconcerned with the Heavenly Deity Ster River''s struggle for supremacy, the spectacle and excitement naturally took precedence.

    "Hasn''t the Young Dragon Lord learned his lesson? He still lets the Young Dragon Consort act as a live target, letting others publicly use her for target practice?"

    "Don''t even mention target practice¡ªthe eunuch has no arrows in his quiver; he can''t shoot. Besides... what do you know? Who would have expected this celestial ve to be so much stronger than yesterday? If he''d been this strong then, he might''ve wiped out the Young Dragon Lord on the spot; there''d be no need to seize the Young Dragon Consort!"

    In no time, though Yun Xiao hadn''t done anything yet, both the battlefield and the Million Starlight Pce were in an uproar.Especially in the Million Starlight Pce, news of Yun Xiao''s strength and his recapturing of the Young Dragon Consort stirred a frenzied wave, leaving countless millions gaping and breathless. Peculiar nces shifted toward the powerful figures of the Dragon Devil n.

    As for the Golden Dragon Emperor, Gong Tianjian, and the others, their faces couldn''t have been more sullen. All their previous confidence had now turned into filth on their faces, reeking unbearably.

    Defeat was a disgrace, and with the Young Dragon Consort captured again, would there be an even greater humiliation soon?

    As the masses trembled at Yun Xiao''s might, they all widened their eyes, staring at the screen, afraid to miss any pivotal moment.

    Of course, the twice-disgraced Long Hao was another focus of the entire crowd.

    Just as Long Hao used his tribtion power to burn away the ice and frost on his body, enduring the stinging pain of his wounds and barely regaining his senses, he saw that nightmare-like youth appear before him again.

    Gripping Shen Nanyin''s snow-white neck, the youth forced her to lift her chin high, her body convulsing and suffocating as she looked at him, tears streaming down.

    Even though the youth behind her appeared to be a mere child with an innocent face, the oppressive aura he exuded had already plunged Shen Nanyin into despair.

    The nightmare was happening all over again!

    "Long Hao!"

    Before Long Hao could speak, the blood-haired Long Kun beside him, eyes bloodshot, suddenly grabbed his shoulder and gritted his teeth. "That damned eunuch must''ve been forcibly created by those Three Divas using some forbidden technique¡ªhis strength defies all logic! Fortunately, there''s only one of him. We clearly have the advantage in numbers, but confronting him head-on here is utterly meaningless!"

    "You!" Long Hao red, his eyes aze.

    Long Kun lowered his voice, annoyed. "At a time like this, do we still need to care about the humiliation of Shen Nanyin? If we let this kid ruin our ambush again, we''ll fail our mission to prevent the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm from entering the top ten¡ªthat is our most crucial task!

    "Now, listen to me. We''ll ignore everything else. A battle is about to erupt over at the Extreme Yin Star. Let''s focus onbining our forces, destroying the Extreme Yin Star, and seizing their Parent g. Then, we''ll finallyplete our historic mission. Nothing else matters!"

    Long Kun hade to his senses. He hadn''t been worried about failing the mission before. But now he realized there was indeed a risk of failure.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm entering the Heavenly Deity Alliance was of paramount importance. It had seemed easy before, but now there was a chance of failure. In the face of this historic mission, who still cared about Shen Nanyin?

    "Hah¡­!"

    Long Hao no longer cared about Shen Nanyin''s life or death. Earlier, he wanted to save face, but since his reputation had already taken a hit and the severity of his loss ofposure had escted, how could he still care about pride?

    "Let''s go!" Long Hao decided firmly.

    "Good!" Long Kun was invigorated.

    The two made their decision swiftly.

    Just then, on Yun Xiao''s side, his Life Sigil transformed into a nine-headed dragon that surged forth. The nine divine dragons, like ropes, easily bound Shi Feifei, who was at the Establishment stage of the Fourth Baptism Realm!

    Yet another alluring, nine-foot-tall beauty of the Dragon Devil n was suppressed by Yun Xiao. He pulled her over, binding her with Shen Nanyin. Both were entwined by the violet dragons, as if a massive stone pressed against their waists, lifting them high. They were pale with fright, drenched in sweat, soaking through their battle armor and long hair.

    "Long Kun, save me! Save me!" Shi Feifei, usually so sharp-tongued, realized fear only when Yun Xiao captured her. Even Shen Nanyin hadn''t cried out, but she wailed pitifully.

    "Husband, kill this damned eunuch, quickly..." Seeing that Long Kun had no reaction, Shi Feifei''s voice was full of sobs, hoarse and desperate. Her beautiful eyes looked at her husband, pitiful and alluring.

    Unexpectedly, when Long Kun heard this, he didn''t even nce at her. He publicly dered, "This celestial ve is a forbidden creation, sacrificing his roots to gain early power¡ªwe can''t contend with him! Our goal is to expel the Harmony Divine Pce from the Heavenly Deity Alliance. The most important thing is to seize the Extreme Yin Star''s Parent g and capture the other disciples of the Harmony Divine Pce! Everyone, follow mymand¡ªcharge toward the Extreme Yin Star!"

    As soon as he spoke, it sounded passionate and reasonable. But everyone didn''t react immediately. They were all young Immortals, full of vigor and emotions. In their hearts, they couldn''t help but wonder how he was so nonchnt about his wife being captured.

    "Aren''t you going to save your wives who are in danger first?"

    Even Zhao Cann found it hard to ept. As the embodiment of righteousness in the Elysian Immortal Pce, choosing to abandon one''s wife in such a situation was, to him, not the behavior of a true man.

    More importantly, Yun Lingchen, being a woman, would certainly be unhappy about this too.

    Zhao Cann was courting her; how she perceived him mattered greatly.

    Upon hearing Zhao Cann''s words, the two Young Dragon Lords wore sour expressions. They had already dropped the matter¡ªwhy was this kid picking it back up?

    They nced at Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei. Upon hearing Long Kun''s deration, these two women gazed at their husbands with faces full of despair, emptiness, and sorrow¡ªa look of utter heartbreak.

    Especially Shen Nanyin; her husband''s love wavered between near and distant. In the end, it proved one thing. She truly didn''t matter.

    Facing this dead silent and awkward scene, Zhao Cann noticed that few were following Long Hao and Long Kun. He cupped his hands and said, "Gentlemen, though this celestial ve is strong, I haven''t used my full strength, and Yun Lingchen hasn''t acted yet. We might still take him down... Of course, he has hostages, which is troublesome."

    "What do you suggest, then?" Long Hao asked.

    Gritting his teeth, Zhao Cann said solemnly, "Your attack on the Extreme Yin Star is indeed what worries this celestial ve. In that case, let''s split up. You two lead the troops in the assault; Yun Lingchen and I will hold him off and do our best to rescue your wives."

    Hearing this, Long Hao and Long Kun nearly knelt in gratitude. This was truly excellent¡ªthey could achieve their strategic goal without losing too much goodwill.

    "Follow the two Young Dragon Lords. Leave this shameless eunuch dog to Yun Lingchen and me," Zhao Cann said generously to the other disciples of the Elysian Immortal Pce.

    "Yes!"

    Zhao Cann''s confidence inspired them as well.

    "Charge!"

    Long Hao and Long Kun didn''t cast a single nce toward Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei, fearing that witnessing a scene infuriating enough to make them spit blood would shake their resolve and dao hearts.

    With Zhao Cann and Yun Lingchen staying behind, the main force advanced to carry out the Alliance Army''s ultimate mission, thwarting Yun Xiao''s scheme to dy them. Although some wished to stay and watch the spectacle, the greater task took precedence, so they followed the two Young Dragon Lords onward.

    Though they moved sluggishly, casting nces back every few steps, at least they were moving.

    As the encirclement withdrew, soon only Yun Xiao, Zhao Cann, Yun Lingchen, and the two nine-foot-tall Young Dragon Consorts remained.

    The two super geniuses of the Elysian Immortal Pce clearly hadn''t conceded¡ªespecially Yun Lingchen, who still held herself with great poise.

    At this moment, the fair-skinned girl in a pale pink dress hovered before Yun Xiao and the two Young Dragon Consorts. Her beautiful eyes brimmed with freshly kindled loathing.

    "Yun Xiao, you were once a man. Even if you''ve be a celestial ve, can''t you hold onto some dignity befitting a true man? If you still know shame, release the two Young Dragon Consorts. I will face you honorably in a duel to the death." Yun Lingchen bit her lip. Her pretty face was flushed with anger; she was clearly furious.

    After all, the two Young Dragon Consorts looked so terrified and pitiful. Being a woman, she naturally felt their humiliation. It was like watching a white swan being sullied by a warty toad.

    "Release them?" Yun Xiao moved. The nine-headed dragon tightened its coils, violet mist rising as it burned around the two consorts, making them tremble even more.

    "Don''t waste your words on him. He won''t..." Zhao Cann began.

    In truth, Zhao Cann already knew the two Young Dragon Lords had abandoned their women. Nothingpared to the importance of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm entering the Heavenly Deity Alliance. He was mentally prepared that in a real fight, they couldn''t care about the lives of these two consorts.

    However, just as Zhao Cann was halfway through his sentence, Yun Xiao nced at the retreating Alliance Army, loosened his grip, and said, "Fine, I''ll heed your words and release them."

    At this, the other four thought they must have misheard.

    "What?"

    Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei felt the pressure lift. They looked down and saw that Yun Xiao''s terrifying Life Sigil had vanished.

    They stood there, stunned, until Yun Xiao pushed them aside, sending them flying.

    After being freed, they didn''t immediately think to run toward Long Hao and Long Kun but stood nearby on shaky legs, utterly unable to fathom Yun Xiao''s logic.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    That was until they saw Yun Xiao charge straight at Yun Lingchen!

    "His target is her!" Shi Feifei gasped, her face turning pale.

    "She¡¯s 100 times more valuable than we are..." Shen Nanyin shuddered, her hair standing on end.

    They were so anxious about Yun Lingchen that they forgot to flee, clenching their fists as cold sweat trickled down their skin.

    Even they realized it immediately; naturally, Zhao Cann and Yun Lingchen understood Yun Xiao''s true intent even earlier.

    "Shameless scoundrel!" Yun Lingchen was such a pure girl, like a lotus blossoming untouched in clear water. No one had ever approached her with such aggressive intent!

    She bit her lip, fuming with anger. The two Coronas above her head shed brilliantly, making her look almost yfully adorable.

    But Zhao Cann was truly enraged!

 Chapter 914: Castration as an Art!

    Yun Lingchen was the cherished treasure of every powerful figure in the Elysian Immortal Pce. She was the white moonlight in Zhao Cann''s heart and in the hearts of countless young men¡ªa symbol of purity, reverence, and wlessness. She wasn''t someone of the same status as the two Young Dragon Consorts. And this castrated dog dared to have designs on her?

    "Kill!" Zhao Cann let out a low roar, his eyes turning bloodshot. Though he was usually calm and mild-mannered, his throat burned with fury.

    Above his head, the Dragonsong Guqin yed an urgent melody once more. In his left hand, the Sky Sea Silk shimmered like a starry sky beneath the sea; in his right, the enormous Ster Ocean Hammer activated simultaneously. The silk danced wildly in the sky, while the hammer struck with immense force.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Behind him, Yun Lingchen matched his movements perfectly. Zhao Cann was an Immortal who cultivated both the Martial and Anima; his ability to hold the front lines rivaled that of the Dragon Devil n.

    Yun Lingchen, inheritor of the Twin Corona bloodline and reputed to possess the most destructive lineage in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, naturally had astonishing killing power.

    In a sh, a white Life Sigil emerged from the brow of the girl. The sigil bore countless human figures, as if containing an entire world filled with innumerable beings¡ªa holy and pure world where everyone seemed to live among the clouds.

    This was the famous World-Purifying Cloud Sigil of the Elysian Immortal Pce, a symbol of light and salvation. It had two sides; it could save people, but it could also kill.

    Compared to the ferocious Prison Warden Sigil, this World-Purifying Cloud Sigil appeared truly radiant.

    Not only that, Yun Lingchen let out a clear shout. The Twin Coronas above her head revealed their true power. The two Coronas that had resembled rabbit ears gradually transformed into two white furnaces. In one furnace, raging mes rolled; in the other, storms howled.In the next instant, Yun Lingchen''s spirit manifested above the Life Sigil, positioned between the Twin Coronas. Her spirit shone brilliantly, surrounded by auspicious clouds, clearly possessing the powerful soul power of an Anima Immortal.

    Yun Lingchen cultivated both sigil and soul.

    This type of cultivator, when casting celestial techniques, had the most powerfulrge-scale destructive capabilities, supplemented by soul-based attacks. As long as someone held the front lines, they were absolute weapons of mass destruction in war.

    The stunning talent she disyed at this moment matched her status, causing an uproar among the Million Starlight Pce. Even the Alliance Army attacking the Extreme Yin Star couldn''t help but turn back to watch.

    At this moment, Yun Lingchen stood with the Twin Coronas on her left and right, her spirit above, and her Life Sigil below, forming a four-pole structure. Standing at the center, she wielded the power of the Fifth Baptism Realm, bing the core of destruction!

    Amid the surge of tribtion power, her petite figure¡ªdelicatepared to the two Young Dragon Consorts¡ªdanced in a swirling short skirt. Strands of hair floated freely, her jade-like skin radiant as snow, exuding an irresistible charm like a finely crafted gem.

    "Senior Brother Zhao, hold him off! I''ll finish him!" Yun Lingchen was confident. Even though Yun Xiao''s <em>viinous</em> gaze unsettled her as he charged, her vast reserves of strength allowed her to dismiss it, unleashing all the destructive power she had learned.

    "Understood!"

    With such a graceful maiden behind him, Zhao Cann was willing to risk everything for a mere nod from her. They moved in perfect harmony¡ªhe at the front, she at the back¡ªa handsome man and a beautiful woman, a match made in heaven.

    Even atop the Million Starlight Pce, cheers for this golden couple of the Elysian Immortal Pce echoed far and wide, stirring envy in countless hearts.

    Who wouldn''t dream of such a pairing, both noble and boundless in future prospects?

    In the presence of this divine couple, Yun Xiao¡ªthe <em>eunuch</em>¡ªtruly seemed like a venomous viin, an ipetent clown, a toad leaping out of the gutter... That was most people''s first impression.

    To them, no matter how a eunuch looked, he embodied such an image¡ªit couldn''t change. The sinister and maliciousbel had long been ingrained in people''s minds.

    So while they shouted slogans about liberating the celestial ves, deep down they despised, loathed, and ridiculed them.

    But of course, Yun Xiao had no time to spare. He couldn''t afford to admire the celestial glow of this golden couple.

    Under their furious assault, they had no intention of wasting words with a mere toad. It was as if speaking another sentence would sully themselves.

    "Iron Steeds Crossing Frozen Rivers!" Zhao Cann, wielding the Dreamsong Guqin,unched a soul-assaulting melody at Yun Xiao, striking directly at his mind. ?

    Simultaneously, he brandished the Sky Sea Silk and Ster Ocean Hammer¡ªone to control, one to annihte¡ªcharging fiercely.

    This time, he had learned his lesson. No longer overconfident that the Dreamsong Guqin could entirely disrupt his opponent, he kept some strength in reserve while swinging the Ster Ocean Hammer to maintain stability.

    Behind him, Zhao Cann could already sense Yun Lingchen earnestly preparing to unleash her newly mastered ultimate move.

    She had intended to reveal this only whenpeting with other ster river geniuses inside the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    But now, she was using it!

    "You''re dead!" Zhao Cann sneered coldly. His left hand manipted the Sky Sea Silk like a vast ocean tornado, shimmering with dazzling starlight as it swept toward the figure in white. His right hand held the Ster Ocean Hammer in reserve, ready to smash down at any moment.

    The Iron Steeds Crossing Frozen Rivers melody was his forte. The tune manifested as a legion of spectral soldiers, roaring past like 10,000 swords shing at the spirit.

    A destructive killing intent erupted simultaneously from this golden couple.

    Zhao Cann stood at the front, holding the pass alone!

    Yun Lingchen was at the rear, annihting all directions!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The girl harnessed the full might of her Fifth Baptism Realm cultivation. Centering herself, she fused the power of her Twin Coronas¡ªthe Wind and Fire Furnaces¡ªher spirit, and the World-Purifying Cloud Sigil, uniting forces from all four directions. She unleashed an earth-shattering celestial technique that shook the heavens and the earth.

    "Cloud Annihtion!"

    This celestial technique, blending sigil arts with soul power, was the signature move of the Elysian Immortal Pce. Its appearance sent shockwaves through countless elders.

    Yun Lingchen, channeling her Fifth Baptism Realm cultivation, unleashed Cloud Annihtion. The attack formed a torrent like white clouds, surging past Zhao Cann with world-destroying momentum, aiming straight to engulf Yun Xiao.

    This was thebined assault of the golden couple.

    Zhao Cann possessed numerous techniques; Yun Lingchen wielded immense destructive power.

    In such a situation, even elders at the Fifth Baptism Realm wouldn''t dare im they could handle this assault, let alone Yun Xiao.

    As theirbined attack was executed, thunderous cheers echoed through the Million Starlight Pce. It was evident how much attention they had garnered. Even the Alliance Army heading to the Extreme Yin Star was drawn to a halt, shouting that there was no need to fear Yun Xiao.

    At that moment, amidst the raging seas and stormy clouds, Yun Xiao seemed like a white feather¡ªso fragile, so vulnerable.

    Even Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei beside him were freed from their fear. They parted their red lips, embraced each other, and excitedly cheered for the golden couple, praising their pure and youthful love.

    This hysterical optimism spread unchecked throughout the world... until Yun Xiao, amid the stormy tempest, curled his lips into a slight, cold smile.

    "Showing off your love in front of me? Alright, I''ll drop the act. The truth is breaking up lovebirds feels great!"

    Of course, since lovebirds came in pairs, if Yun Xiao were going to break them up, he might as well take down one.

    With killing intent shaking the heavens before him, Yun Xiao had been pushed to his lowest point.

    However, his renowned trait was speed.

    "So celestial techniques can be cast like this..."

    His eyes shed coldly, suddenly bursting with power.

    In that split second, Yun Xiao crossed the Heaven Burial Sword Soul in one hand and the Prison Warden Sigil in the other!

    At the same time, his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit descended from the sky, sitting cross-legged at the intersection of the sword and sigil.

    In an instant, his three great powers collided destructively under the impact of the three Burying Heaven grade cmities.

    Heaven Burial and Prison Warden were originally conflicting forces. As the sword and sigil shed, azure and violet lights shone brilliantly. The golden radiance of the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit descended like divine might from the heavens. His spirit opened its mouth, emitting a thunderous bell and drum sound that instantly suppressed Zhao Cann''s Iron Steeds Crossing Frozen Rivers.

    The soul storm of the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit formed golden lotus blossoms, merging into Yun Xiao''s sword and sigil. The azure lotus Sword Prisons of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and the dragon-shaped Rune Prisons of the Prison Warden Sigil collided, and gold, azure, and violet lights burst forth dazzlingly!

    Sword, lotus, and dragon¡ªthe three grand visions burst forth in a dazzling sh. Their brilliance instantly overshadowed Cloud Annihtion; their resonance drowned out the Dreamsong Guqin. The divine might of swordsmanship dominated the world, piercing through everything!

    It seemed akin to the Lunar Convergence Sword, yet this strike borrowed from Yun Lingchen''s Cloud Annihtion technique. It fused the divine power of the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit and the Prison Warden Sigil into the sword art, piercing forward with unstoppable force.

    An azure sword, violet dragon, and golden lotus¡ªthebined assault of a Sword, Inscription, and Anima Immortal. Even before the sword arrived, the terrifying roar of the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit crashed into Zhao Cann''s Dreamsong Guqin.

    The strings of Zhao Cann''s guqin vibrated violently, snapping one after another.

    "Ugh!" His face changed dramatically, all optimism turning to despair in an instant. Even as he tried to retract his spirit, it was shaken so fiercely that he spat blood repeatedly.

    "What... is this?" Amid the tempest, his eyes widened abruptly. His mind roared with continuous thunder, and as the first to bear the brunt, the violet dragon and azure sword were already upon him!

    <em>RIP! </em>His Sky Sea Silk was directly caught up in this sword strike!

    <em>BOOM! </em>The Ster Ocean Hammer he had swung out was sent flying!

    At this moment, Zhao Cann was already covered in blood. All his tribtion power copsed; he had been utterly dominated.

    The next moment brought his true scream of misery.

    "NOOO!"

    Amid a legendary, heartrending wail, Yun Xiao''s azure sword, violet dragon, and golden lotus pierced straight through him!

    Zhao Cann was instantly split in two!

    The upper half of his body remained intact.

    The lower half, after being blown away, split into three parts¡ªtworge, one small.

    The smallest part was further divided into two¡ªa stick and two balls!

    As these fragments scattered, Zhao Cann''s agonized cries seemed to celebrate Yun Xiao''s sword strike!

    And the sword wasn''t finished yet!

    After tearing through Zhao Cann, it surged forward, pressing directly against Cloud Annihtion!

    The so-called ultimate destructive force of Cloud Annihtion parted like ocean waves before the sword, splitting sharply to the left and right!

    <em>RIP! </em>With a single sh, Yun Xiao cleaved Cloud Annihtion in two, scattering it!

    <em>VROOM! </em>Charging forward in a frenzy, he sped through the shattered Cloud Annihtion, the Sky Sea Silk entwined around his sword, showcasing unparalleled divine might!

    He carved a bloody path straight through, annihting Cloud Annihtion on the spot!

    As the celestial technique disintegrated before him, a lovely figure was suddenly exposed to his gaze!

    The girl stood there, stunned. Her short dress and long hair danced in the storm of the azure sword and violet dragon. In her beautiful eyes was the reflection of the peerless elegance of the young man in white at this very moment!

    The azure sword halted at Yun Lingchen''s chest. A storm of azure and violet swirled around her, yet it did not harm her in the slightest.

    "Uh..." Her delicate body trembled, her voice hoarse. She widened her round eyes, gazing at the godlike youth amid the raging winds, and asked in a trembling voice, "W-why... why don''t you kill me..."

    The youth in white tilted his head, then suddenly swung his sword horizontally.

    Two bloody chunks fell onto the de, staining it.

    A slight smirk yed on his lips as he asked Yun Lingchen, "Do you know what this is?"

    Yun Lingchen shook her head nkly.

    "Your happiness for the rest of your life," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    Hearing this, her pretty face looked as if it had been punched. In that moment, tears, shame, pain, and sorrow vividly unfolded.

    Her beautiful eyes looked past Yun Xiao''s sword and saw Zhao Cann''s upper body. Indeed, the cut was clean; only his <em>three legs</em> were severed, which wouldn''t affect his future cultivation...

    He was once the legendary figure of the Elysian Immortal Pce¡ªthe unparalleled senior brother who rose to stand before her, so radiant and heroic, seemingly omnipotent.

    But now, he was in such pain, sorrow, helplessness, and confusion. No one even went to hold him, leaving him curled up, screaming in misery.

    At that moment, Yun Lingchen couldn''t hold back; tears burst from her eyes.

    "Hey now," Yun Xiao tapped her pretty face with his sword and said, "Don''t cry too soon. It''s just a man. You can always find another whole one."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 915: Whats There to Come At You For?

    When Yun Xiao''s sword annihted Zhao Cann and Cloud Annihtion, a thunderous roar erupted throughout the Million Starlight Pce.

    Such a colossalmotion signified that countless elders and mighty figures were so utterly shocked they lost theirposure.

    As Yun Xiao''s sword swept through, Zhao Cann''s lower body and all <em>three legs</em> were severed. Everyone present, young and old alike, stared wide-eyed at the scene, feeling a chilling coldness in their own legs.

    "Wretched ve!!"

    Hundreds of Heavenly Monarchs from the Elysian Immortal Pce were in attendance. At that moment, they all rose in unison, eyes zing with fury, their powerful auras sweeping across the surroundings.

    From their contorted faces and clenched fists, one could see how unbearable their rage was.

    Earlier, it was the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, the Ancestral Land, and Nine Yin Soul Sea that suffered. Now it was their turn.

    "Cann..."

    On the side of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, Gong Tianjian¡ªthe Chief of the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s Joint Law Enforcement Division¡ªhad been optimistic and arrogant before this sword strike, her face full of confidence and strategy.Zhao Cann was her pride, bringing her immense glory.

    A disciple she personally nurtured, closer than a son!

    Ask any mother. Seeing her son''s three legs severed, while he curled up and wailed¡ªhow could her heart not break?

    Gong Tianjian immediately crushed the armrest of her seat. Her eyes were bloodshot, her face twisted into a grimace. Though small in stature, she raged like a primordial beast.

    "Ahhh!"

    Decades of painstaking effort vanished in an instant; her mindset was beyond explosive.

    Her hatred for Yun Xiao had reached the very top of her head.

    How did they let this monster into the Grand Assembly Arena? It was toote for regrets now!

    There were too few people from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªonly her subordinate, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    At this moment, even the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen looked stunned.

    Even if Gong Tianjian had volcanic fury, there was nowhere to vent it.

    Her own disciple had lost in a two versus one duel. So, would she kill the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen on the spot? That was definitely impossible!

    She couldn''t even berate the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen; it would only make her lose face even more, because Zhao Cann and Yun Lingchen both lost fair and square!

    What Gong Tianjian and the others couldn''t ept the most was that before this battle, Yun Xiao had single-handedly fought against 1,500 geniuses, brutally ying hundreds and humiliating two Young Dragon Lords... Such divine might had already elicited heartfelt admiration from the various powerhouses in the Million Starlight Pce!

    "This celestial ve is too powerful!"

    "How did the Harmony Divine Pce cultivate him? Does his age truly meet the requirements?"

    "Or did they use some forbidden technique?"

    "No! Did you see hisst sword strike? It seemed to have the same effect as Cloud Annihtion."

    The Million Starlight Pce was filled with hidden talents and keen eyes. Many were visibly shaken, whispering among themselves. The contempt in their gazes toward Yun Xiao had greatly diminished, reced by admiration. ?????£Â???

    His strength had turned public opinion on its head.

    This scene showed that sometimes a person''s character was linked to their power. The stronger someone was, even if theymitted all sorts of misdeeds, they still shone in the eyes of others. This radiance was forced upon them by those who worshiped strength.

    "If this celestial ve weren''t missing one crucial thing, he''d be perfect!"

    "Does he not resent the Harmony Divine Pce? With his talent, if he hadn''t be a celestial ve, he could have made great achievements in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Any sect in the Heavenly Deity Alliance would have supported him!"

    "He can''t carry on his lineage; no matter how strong his bloodline is, it can''t be passed on. The Harmony Divine Pce has cut off his future!"

    "Don''t say that; perhaps his achievements are rted to his purity. After all, the sword arts and celestial techniques of the Harmony Divine Pce are all feminine. If he hadn''t castrated himself, he might not have been able to learn them..."

    "Are you sure? Then now, Zhao Cann can also learn the techniques of the Yin Sword Embryo!"

    "Haha..."

    "Golden boy and jade Girl? Now it''s just golden eunuch and jade girl."

    "The Great Eagle Spreads Its Wings has be the Great Eunuch Spreads His Wings."

    "Yun Xiao has astonishing assimtion abilities. Now he''s added one more member to his alliance of celestial ves."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    From Yang Yang to Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and now Zhao Cann¡ªall towering, handsome men¡ªcould now only gaze longingly at paradise, their tears falling in vain.

    In any case, the Million Starlight Pce was abuzz. Some watched the unfolding drama with relish, some suppressed their anger, and others were listing Yun Xiao''s deeds, predicting the severe consequences that would bring disaster to countless people in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm, Ancestral Land, Nine Yin Soul Sea, Elysian Immortal Pce... He had offended so many of the top superpowers in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, and those Three Divas hadn''t stopped him. Did they really want to bring about their own destruction?

    But that was a matter forter; those not involved didn''t care. They just wanted to see how Yun Xiao would resolve the crisis on the Extreme Yin Star.

    On the screen, the excitement continued.

    "The Pce Master of the Elysian Immortal Pce, Yun Sheng, has arrived. If this celestial ve dares to mess with Yun Lingchen, he''s absolutely doomed!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>SPLATTER! </em>Blood stained Yun Xiao''s sword¡ªthe very essence of Zhao Cann''s downfall, a legendary genius of the Elysian Immortal Pce reduced to a celestial ve''s Personal Pledge.

    Yun Lingchen and Zhao Cann, though only in the naive stages of acquaintance, had kindled some feelings under their elders'' arrangements.

    But now¡­ The bloodstain chunk hanging before her eyes twitched like a dying insect, making Yun Lingchen''s stomach churn.

    All dreams of being the perfect couple¡ªthe golden boy and jade girl¡ªhad turned into a bloody nightmare beneath Yun Xiao''s de.

    Zhao Cann, now reduced to his upper body curled on the ground, struggled to lift his head. Witnessing the scene, a bitter taste rose in his throat. He spat out dark blood; his eyes seemed to shatter into pieces.

    It was unimaginable¡ªthe agony of plummeting from unmatched brilliance into life''s deepest abyss in an instant. All the scorn he''d held for Yun Xiao now crashed back onto himself, twice as heavy.

    "Senior Brother Zhao..." Yun Lingchen''s delicate body trembled, lips pale, tears streaming down her face, despair etched in every feature.

    Their gazes locked, mirroring the moment when righteous lovers were crushed by viins in tales. It seemed the script for vanquishing evil had fallen into the wrong hands, leaving the righteous more devastated than ever imagined.

    "Even now, you linger on sentimental ties?" Yun Xiao remarked, the deathly might of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul ring. The bloody chunks rotted into ck powder.

    <em>WHOOSH! </em>He blew gently, and the ck dust settled onto Yun Lingchen''s pink dress.

    "Kyaaa!" she screamed, frantically brushing at the dust, nearly tearing her dress apart.

    In her panic, she revealed glimpses of her jade-like skin¡ªfresh and tender, the very essence of youth.

    "Celestial ve, I''ll kill you!"

    For Yun Lingchen, these were the harshest words she could muster. Tears flowing, she summoned the World-Purifying Cloud Sigil, aiming to strike Yun Xiao at close range.

    "Heh." Yun Xiao had already ensnared this little white rabbit. Before she could act, his Life Sigil transformed into a nine-headed dragon, lunging at her World-Purifying Cloud Sigil.

    "Evil creature, how dare you touch my World-Purifying Cloud Sigil!" She bit her lip in anger, still clinging to confidence.

    But before her words faded, her snow-white Life Sigil was embraced by Yun Xiao''s violet nine-headed divine dragon. The nine heads spread out, binding and entwining it. As the dragon heads bit down, she felt searing pain; sweat beaded on her brow; her spirit waned.

    She had believed her World-Purifying Cloud Sigil''s holy power could suppress Yun Xiao''s evil sigil. Unexpectedly, the Prison Warden Sigil was unaffected. Instead, a domineering, sacred warmth surged from the dragon''s fangs into her sigil.

    Under this force, her World-Purifying Cloud Sigil became like a frightened rabbit, whimpering, surrendering, toyed with in the grasp of an ancient dragon fiend; even her Life Sigil wept pitifully.

    "What... what''s happening..." Yun Lingchen''s eyes widened, her face a mask of disbelief.

    Her Life Sigil was the core of her power. Now, with it locked down, it was as if Yun Xiao held her throat in an unyielding grip.

    "Sorry, but when ites to purity, you''re no match for me," Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "Impossible! You''re lying!" Yun Lingchen pointed at him, herposure unraveling. She wasn''t aggressive by nature; even her outbursts sounded like yful banter.

    Yet deep down, she had to admit that Yun Xiao''s Prison Warden Sigil, though appearing sinister and fierce, held a warmth within. Despite its domineering aura, it was hard to detest¡ªif anything, it stirred an unsettling urge to submit.

    "I''ve no interest in debating with you," Yun Xiao replied.

    As he spoke, he unwound the Sky Sea Silk from his sword. Originally Zhao Cann''s Burying Heaven grade celestial treasure, it now whimpered like a subdued beast under Yun Xiao''s grasp, swiftly submitting to his control.

    "Not a bad rope," Yun Xiao mused.

    "That''s the Sky Sea Silk¡­ Ahh!" Yun Lingchen began, but before she could finish, Yun Xiao flicked his wrist. The pale blue fabric, resembling an undersea starry sky, unfurled and flew toward her, wrapping tightly around her and binding her limbs.

    The Sky Sea Silk could expand, widen, lengthen, or shrink at will.

    When erged, it could transform into a painting or even a semi-transparent wall.

    Now bound, Yun Lingchen''s hands and feet were immobilized. She could only gaze at Yun Xiao with tear-filled eyes, trembling as she asked, "What are you nning to do?!"

    Recalling Shen Nanyin''s earlier ordeal, this pure maiden naturally panicked. Unlike Shen Nanyin, she had grown up without even holding hands with a stranger.

    At this moment, not only was she terrified, but many around them were equally rmed.

    "What do you think?" Yun Xiao said, curling his lips into a wicked smile. Yun Lingchen''s delicate body shuddered, despair flooding her eyes.

    But Yun Xiao didn''t touch her yet. The Sky Sea Silk in his hand continued to extend, soaring like a blue dragon.

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! </em>Not far away, the two Young Dragon Consorts, still dazed and paralyzed, hadn''t even reacted before they were simultaneously ensnared, violently pulled over by Yun Xiao, and trapped beside Yun Lingchen, one on each side.

    Now they were all together.

    It had to be said, under the binding of the Sky Sea Silk, the figures and curves disyed by the two Young Dragon Consorts of the Dragon Devil n were explosive, truly surpassing what Yun Lingchen could offer.

    One could only say that each had her own allure, offering a full array of charms.

    "Wow!"

    At this, many men inside and outside the Grand Assembly Arena couldn''t help but feel they''d feasted their eyes. After all, under normal circumstances, women of the Dragon Devil n were taboo in the Heavenly Deity Ster River; an ordinary person might lose his head just by ncing at them. Let alone seeing them bound like this!

    "Senior Brother Zhao, this rope of yours is quite impressive," Yun Xiao remarked.

    As Yun Lingchen, Shen Nanyin, and Shi Feifei trembled in terror and panic, Yun Xiao appeared behind them. One hand rested on Shen Nanyin''s shoulder; the other gently stroked Yun Lingchen''s silken hair.

    "Eunuch dog!!" Even though Zhao Cann had only his upper body remaining, he forced himself upright, ring at Yun Xiao and shouting, "If you have the guts,e at me!"

    "Pfft. Don''t make meugh. What''s there toe at you for?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but chuckle. "Besides, shouting <em>eunuch dog</em> so loudly¡ªare you cursing yourself?"

 Chapter 916: Revealing His Innate Talent!

    Zhao Cann spat blood, reminded once more that he''d lost something precious.

    "Enough. Don''t waste time," Yun Xiao said. "Zhao Cann, have Long Hao and Long Kun bring the people back, or else... you know what." As he spoke, he pinched Yun Lingchen''s ear. The little white rabbit trembled all over, tears streaming down her cheeks.

    "You''re scared? In your dreams!" Zhao Cann roared.

    "Zhao Cann, tell them to return!" Yun Lingchen had finally had enough. Couldn''t this Zhao Chann understand the gravity of the situation?

    Suppressing the Harmony Divine Pce was crucial for the Heavenly Deity Alliance, but not so important for their Elysian Immortal Pce.

    Hearing Yun Lingchen''s shout, Zhao Cann snapped out of his frenzied state, regaining a bit of rity.

    "Fine! Don''t rush me!"

    His dao heart was strong enough that he could regain some reason even now.

    When he turned around, he saw that Long Hao and Long Kun hadn''t taken the people very far.The battle here was too thrilling; most couldn''t help but stop and watch. And most weren''t from the Dragon Devil n but disciples from other sects who had been conscripted. No matter how much Long Hao and Long Kun shouted themselves hoarse at the front, the army''s progress was still slow.

    "Elysian Immortal Pce, bring the people back and save Yun Lingchen!" Zhao Cann''s voice carried a sob as he rushed over, screaming hoarsely.

    Over there, some of the Elysian Immortal Pce disciples had already been moving slowly. Seeing the golden boy and jade girl being crushed, they panicked too.

    "Return! Quickly!"

    They called out to about a few hundred people, mostly those they had conscripted themselves. These people closely followed the Elysian Immortal Pce disciples and hurriedly retreated.

    "We can''t go back!" Long Hao roared.

    After exchanging blows with Yun Xiao just now, he already felt inferior in strength. Now, in his once-proud heart, there was deep awe.

    That celestial ve had be a monster!

    Long Hao and Long Kun were resolute, leading a portion of the Dragon Devil n. With ferocious expressions, they shouted at the top of their lungs.

    "Going to the Extreme Yin Star to seize their Parent g is the only way to deal with that ursed eunuch! Going back now will only let him control us, lose the big picture, and we''ll fail to drive the Harmony Divine Pce out of the Heavenly Deity Alliance!"

    "Yes! Everyone from the Elysian Immortal Pce, don''t be afraid!" Long Kun continued sharply, "Yun Lingchen is Pce Master Yun''s only beloved daughter. If Yun Xiao dares to humiliate her, it will surely cause the Elysian Immortal Pce toe out in full force and wipe out the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! Even if that eunuch isn''t thinking straight, the Three Divas won''t let him act recklessly!"

    "But what about your wives?" an Elysian Immortal Pce disciple couldn''t help but ask.

    Long Hao and Long Kun, the two Young Dragon Lords, nearly spat blood. They had been forcing themselves to ignore that; why bring it up again? Couldn''t they pretend they didn''t exist?

    "They will die to contribute to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!" Long Hao dered. After speaking, he looked deeply over there, unexpectedly meeting Shen Nanyin''s gaze.

    They really weren''t that far away!

    Shen Nanyin could even tell what he was saying by reading his lips.

    Meanwhile, Long Hao was indeed reminding her:

    "Just end it all with death!

    Don''t give that eunuch dog another chance to smear the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    "As long as you die, everything will be fine!"

    "Long Hao, Long Kun!" Zhao Cann approached, his face deathly pale. "Let''s retreat together! Saving Yun Lingchen is what matters!"

    Long Hao nced at Zhao Cann''s missing lower half, his expression conflicted. He shook his head. "Your Elysian Immortal Pce can go back. We have only one strategy left to break this stalemate. This is a millennial n; those two can be sacrificed!"

    "Long Hao! If anything happens to Yun Lingchen, you and the Dragon Devil n will be held responsible!" Zhao Cann snarled.

    "Get lost!" Long Hao cursed, his heart tormented and impatient.

    This outburst made it clear that a legless Zhao Cann would hardly earn his respect in the future.

    "You!" Zhao Cann felt the coldness of the world, his heart seething with rage.

    Helpless, he could only lead the 400 conscripted men back.

    And so, Long Hao and Long Kun had about 800 men under theirmand.

    "Go!"

    The two Young Dragon Lords roared, anxiety gnawing at their hearts.

    Yet after theirmand, they found that aside from their own Dragon Devil n, many members of the Alliance Army remained rooted, exchanging uncertain nces, their resolve wavering.

    At that moment, Zhao Cann returned with his men.

    "Yun Xiao, release Yun Lingchen. Our people have alle back!" Zhao Cann''s face was grim; he could no longer bring himself to curse at Yun Xiao and call him a <em>eunuch dog</em>.

    "What about them?" Yun Xiao pointed at Long Hao and Long Kun.

    "They insist on attacking the Extreme Yin Star. I can''t control them! At worst, you can keep tormenting the two Young Dragon Consorts, just don''t touch Yun Lingchen!" Zhao Cann vented his resentment.

    "Zhao Cann, you shameless man!"

    Upon hearing this, Shi Feifei erupted in fury, struggling within the Sky Sea Silk, her every move exuding allure.

    Shen Nanyin, on the other hand, looked lost and sorrowful.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    More than anyone, she knew her man would never return. That heartless nce just now marked the end of everything.

    Just then, even more piercing voices rang out from afar!

    "He''s just a gutless dead eunuch! What can he do by holding people hostage?"

    "A coward with no guts, only knows how to humiliate women! But all he can do is slobber like a toad!"

    "Haha, this eunuch dog is a joke! Doesn''t even have the equipment, yet he tries to threaten with women? He''s just indulging his hand fetish, which only highlights his ipetence!"

    "Sorry! In this regard, even a ten-year-old kid is more dangerous than him!"

    "Hahahaha..."

    The mockingughter echoed loudly, reaching Yun Xiao''s side. Those Dragon Devil n members were jeering, clearly under Long Kun and Long Hao''s instigation.

    The more they spoke this way, the more they showed they didn''t care about Yun Xiao''s actions. Their followers rxed, treating it as no big deal.

    As for killing... Long Hao and his group couldn''t wait for Yun Xiao to kill their wives!

    "Eunuch! Eunuch!"

    "Useless coward, if you''re so tough, why don''t you do something?"

    "If you can''t, stop clinging to them. Even after 10,000 years, all you can do is drool! How pathetic!"

    The deafening voices came from those 800 men. They had clearly unified their stance, fearless, treating this as nothing serious.

    Originally, Yun Xiao had been humiliating them. Now, through a sort of psychological victory, they clung to his weakness, mocking him mercilessly.

    In this way, if he behaved likest time, the more he did, the more it exposed his impotence and helplessness, his pity and sorrowpletely failing to achieve any effect of humiliation.

    The sky was filled withughter and jeers. In fact, it was Long Hao and Long Kun provoking Yun Xiao, pushing him to kill the two Young Dragon Consorts in a fit of rage.

    "Tsk tsk! Without a man''s prowess, the poor thing must be suffering inside!"

    "So hard to bear, makes you want to cry."

    "What to do? Maybe y a bit to fill the emptiness, tsk tsk tsk!"

    The more they taunted, the more excited they became. Looking at Yun Xiao, their eyes were full of deep disdain, regardless of gender. In fact, the scorn and mockery from the women were even more cutting.

    Most importantly, in this rxed atmosphere, they truly believed Yun Xiao posed no real threat to the two Young Dragon Consorts. They unified their goal and all headed toward the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    "Heh." Long Hao looked back through the crowd, raising an eyebrow as he nced at Yun Xiao, his eyes full of mockery. The sneer at the corner of his mouth was extremely arrogant.

    As for Long Kun, he deliberately ced his hand below his navel, unting the overwhelming assets of their Dragon Devil n to Yun Xiao.

    They marched forward without any inner turmoil, advancing swiftly.

    Even if they scattered, they would charge toward the Extreme Yin Star!

    The mockingughter continued unabated.

    Back in the Million Starlight Pce, the elders could only shake their heads with wry smiles, secretly noting that these youngsters knew how to strike where it hurt; their mindsets were indeed strong.

    The celestial ve''s weakness was that he could not be a real man.

    Even among the Elysian Immortal Pce disciples, both men and women shook their heads at the ridiculed Yun Xiao.

    Shen Nanyin listened to the mockery. Though abandoned, she could only ept it helplessly. She looked at Yun Xiao with a calm gaze, as if to say, "Go ahead, what can you do to me?"

    She was considered reserved, but Shi Feifei, provoked by the crowd''s ridicule, decided to y along. Since Long Kun no longer cared, she lifted her chin high, arching her eyebrow yfully at Yun Xiao. To her, he was just a child...

    All the mockery pierced Yun Xiao''s mind like 10,000 swords, cutting deep and relentlessly.

    Originally, his identity didn''t bother him at all.

    But now, Si Ji had already tasted the <em>Nine Dragons Ascension</em>, and Wan Ji and Yu Ji were well aware...

    Those taunts, sneers, and scornful looks swirled around his ears!

    And so, Yun Xiao erupted in anger.

    "Enough is enough! I won''t tolerate this any longer!"

    A true man stood tall in the world; how could he suffer such humiliation without cause?

    He didn''t want to be a celestial ve for even a single moment more!

    "Who says there''s no perfect genius in this world? I am one!"

    As Yun Xiao roared these words amid the sky filled withughter, zing mes erupted from his eyes, and that fierce fire burned onto the golden-haired, dignified, and noble Young Dragon Consort, Shen Nanyin!

    "Useless fool!" Shen Nanyin rolled her eyes.

    Her words ignited a fire in him more potent than anything Thunder Emissary Cao had ever provoked.

    Just after she spoke, she suddenly discovered that the Sky Sea Silk binding her had loosened!

    Then, the silk lengthened and widened, suddenly transforming into a light-blue, underwater starry curtain, enveloping her and Yun Xiao within a semi-transparent, enclosed space!

    From inside, looking out, specks of starlight shimmered!

    From the outside looking in, one could vaguely see two figures, onerge and one small¡ªtheir outlines clear, details blurred, but enough to grasp the situation...

    "What is happening?"

    For a moment, everyone on and off the battlefield, as well as the onlookers in the Million Starlight Pce, stood stunned, watching the swirling Sky Sea Silk.

    <em>RIP! </em>In the next instant, the sound of battle armor tearing exploded, and they saw Shen Nanyin falling onto the Sky Sea Silk.

    From the silhouette, she appeared utterly bare, with only her long hair flowing!

    The smaller figure was the same... People wondered if it was an illusion, but they seemed to see an <em>innate talent</em> no less than that of the Dragon Devil n within that silhouette!

    "What!?"

    In the following moment, Shen Nanyin let out a piercing scream, covering her mouth¡ªa cry that swept across the battlefield and reached the Million Starlight Pce!

    From that scream, one could hear profound disbelief, fear, and utter shock.

    From that moment on, the entire world seemed to stand still...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 917: What in the World of Stockholm Syndrome Bul-?

    "Young Dragon Lord, urgent report!"

    Just as Long Hao and Long Kun were ring coldly at the Extreme Yin Star, charging ahead without even stopping for iing messages, a voice filled with sobs from the Dragon Devil n chased after them from behind.

    "What is it?!"

    Long Hao spun around abruptly, furious beyond measure. His golden eyes zed like fire, his body covered in dragon scales, exuding an innate aura of wrath and unparalleled dominance.

    The red-haired Long Kun also turned his head, his gaze equally chilling.

    The Dragon Devil n member who came to report prostrated himself, his face twitching, forehead sweating, and his teeth chattering.

    He mustered all his strength and finally wailed, "Something terrible has happened!"

    Long Hao had eyes only for the Extreme Yin Star; he couldn''t tolerate such suspense. He growled, "Spit it out if you have something to say!"

    "Young Dragon Lord... you''ve been... betrayed!" the Dragon Devil n member blurted out, not knowing how else to put it."What do you mean?" Long Kun stepped forward, grabbed the man''s cor, and lifted him up, his eyes wide.

    Long Hao frowned deeply, also at a loss for words.

    He had already said not to mention anything about Shen Nanyin, so why was this person still so tactless?

    Under the oppressive aura of the two Young Dragon Lords, the young Dragon Devil couldn''t hold on any longer. Trembling, he said, "That Yun Xiao is not a celestial ve! He''s revealed his <em>true power</em>! The Young Dragon Consort is in danger..."

    "What?!"

    At that moment, not only the two Young Dragon Lords eximed, but also the approximately 800 Alliance Army troops who continued to follow them.

    Yun Xiao was so formidable; their only psychological advantage had been their own physical prowess.

    Now, even their sole sense of superiority had vanished?

    "Impossible!" Long Hao staggered back three steps as if struck by lightning.

    "He came from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm; how could there be a normal man there?" Long Kun''s face also changed drastically.

    Earlier, they had mocked and belittled Yun Xiao, despising him as incapable, which had given their followers a shared sense of superiority.

    But now... the eyes of the surrounding followers clearly showed a change.

    What was the situation now?

    The entire Samsara Gxy was watching.

    If all this were true, and so many people witnessed the <em>cucking</em> of their two Young Dragon Lords, they would never be able to lift their heads again.

    "It''s true! Through the Sky Sea Silk, I saw it clearly; he is not impaired at all! Everyone is gathering to watch..."

    This definitive statement from the Dragon Devil n member caused an uproar among the troops.

    As for Long Hao and Long Kun, their hair hadn''t changed green yet, but their faces had turned entirely that shade. They knew that this young Dragon Devil wouldn''t dare deceive them.

    "Long Hao..." Long Kun suddenly pped himself, his face contorted with rage. "To endure the greatest humiliation is the path to supremacy. Those who achieve great things don''t bother with trifles! Even if we''re mocked by the whole world today, we need only swallow our pride.

    "We''ll drive the Harmony Divine Pce out of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, and one day we''ll suppress the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. We brothers will turn the heavens upside down and make those snake women pay a thousandfold!"

    His words left the onlookers stunned.

    These Dragon Devils had previously yed the part of devoted husbands. Now, at this point, they were still not bothering with their wives? Wasn''t this the biggest joke under the heavens?

    "Everyone, charge with me!" Long Hao suddenly roared, his voice so strained it seemed he might cough up blood. He truly was enduring.

    He had cast aside his pride. He knew that in such extreme circumstances, even their elders would support him in swallowing his pride to aplish their great mission.

    "Attack!" Long Hao shouted, fully immersed in his own fervor.

    "Long Hao..."

    But in the next moment, Long Kun''s call doused him like cold water.

    Long Hao blinked, momentarily stunned.

    He turned to see that the Alliance Army troops who had been following them were not charging ahead but were instead turning back, heading the other way.

    "I don''t believe that celestial ve is a fake!"

    "That sissy doesn''t look like he has any guts..."

    "Whether he does or not, we''ll see for ourselves!"

    They shouted, seeming... excited?

    Indeed, the Young Dragon Consort wasn''t their wife, and the Harmony Divine Pce wasn''t their mortal enemy. With the situation so chaotic now, everyone wanted to see for themselves. Once someone defied Long Hao, the rest followed suit.

    Throughout this entire struggle, these two Young Dragon Lords had been crushed inbat, then humiliated time and again, yet each time chose to swallow their pride. Being suppressed by Yun Xiao like this, their credibility had long since plummeted.

    Once, in the eyes of the Alliance Army, the two Young Dragon Lords were supreme future leaders.

    Now, they had be cowards who didn''t even dare to protect their own wives, with green Coronas over their heads.

    In such circumstances, who would still listen to them?

    All their sense of superiority had been built on their physicalpleteness. Once that advantage was gone, all the superiority they''d constructed copsed entirely.

    "Ugh!" Long Hao watched these people returning to watch the spectacle. Unable to hold back, he spat out a mouthful of ck blood. His head spun, and he nearly fainted from rage on the spot.

    One had to understand that the excitement of these people was built upon his misery and humiliation. Every additional pair of eyes was another blow to his dignity.

    "Castrated dog, I will never coexist with you!" Long Hao''s heart finally exploded.

    The golden-haired Young Dragon Lord roared like an enraged dragon, eyes bloodshot, gripping the Myriad Feathered Dragon Sword Soul as he charged back like a madman.

    "Young Dragon Lord, your wife is in the same situation..."

    Long Kun was still in a daze. The reminder from others pierced his mind like a sharp sword, shattering all reason. Imagining his fiery wife facing defilement by a toad at this very moment, he too bled from his nose in rage.

    "The Harmony Divine Pce must be annihted! Yun Xiao, I curse your ancestors to the 18th generation!" Long Kun roared like a blood-soaked dragon.

    The two Young Dragon Lords finally disyed the manly spirit the Dragon Devil n prided themselves on. The Alliance Army troops who had decided to watch the spectacle became even more excited.

    "Have they started doing it inside that Sky Sea Silk?"

    "Brothers, please, make way! Just give me a crack to peek through!"

    At this moment, gossip and curiosity surpassed the fervor of a small-scale celestial war. In everyone''s eyes, there was no longer contempt for Yun Xiao, only the thrill of the spectacle.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Inside the Sky Sea Silk, the surrounding fabric was like an undersea starry sky, incredibly splendid.

    Without a doubt, it was a perfect and romantic setting.

    Of course, the wide-eyed onlookers outside, along with the countless millions watching from the Million Starlight Pce, were like countless mes burning all around.

    "Ah¡­" The Young Dragon Consort covered her mouth with one hand, crying out in shock. She stared at Yun Xiao in terror, retreating in panic.

    But s, the space inside the Sky Sea Silk was limited; where could she escape to?

    "You... you''re not a celestial ve! You''re not¡ª"

    Her terrified cries spread, dispelling thest traces of uncertainty among the spectators. After all, they were separated by the Sky Sea Silk, and Shen Nanyin was right there; could what she saw be false?

    "Hearing is nothingpared to seeing. Do you understand now?" Yun Xiao looked at her like a fierce beast.

    Before this, even when he ughtered all, the Young Dragon Consort still dared to look at him with contempt¡ªthat was the arrogant trampling of his identity as a celestial ve.

    But now, upon seeing that an ordinary human''s physical prowess was not inferior to her ten-foot-tall husband, her eyes were filled only with extreme fear.

    She was truly afraid! From head to toe, from body to soul, even down to her hair, this young man had shattered her faith in every aspect.

    Now defenseless, reduced to a fish on the chopping block, this small human before her was like a nightmare, draining all color from her face.

    To what extent had her fear reached?

    She was clearly at the Establishment stage of the Fourth Baptism Realm, and Yun Xiao hadn''t used any power to control her. Yet, she quickly found she couldn''t move at all¡ªa feeling of being so frightened that she lost control of her body.

    "I didn''t want to reveal myself, but you insisted on provoking me and attacking the Extreme Yin Star. Sorry, but I can no longer be polite."

    At this moment, Yun Xiao''s devilish voice was close at hand; every word pressed against Shen Nanyin like the tip of a fiery sword.

    Shen Nanyin copsedpletely. She knew how many eyes were around them!

    She also knew how many people were watching from the Million Starlight Pce! She wanted to be virtuous, to die to prove her resolve. But... she really couldn''t move!

    Even when she closed her eyes, her mind was filled with the haunting terror of this young man''s overwhelming presence.

    Her spirit copsed as well.

    At that moment, she even wanted to kneel before him, but unfortunately, she couldn''t move at all.

    She could only use all her strength, crying while rxing her body, sobbing, "Th-then... please, just make it quick..."

    Saying this, she had let go of all her sense of shame and would no longer resist.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    She was used to being bullied by the Young Dragon Lord, and her nature admired strength. Now that someone stronger had appeared, once she submitted, she would only be more obedient.

    She closed her eyes and waited... and waited. Why hadn''t it happened yet? Why hadn''t he touched her? Was it because time seemed to drag on endlessly for her?

    She still had confidence in herself; she was so vulnerable now¡ªwhat was he waiting for? Finally, she couldn''t help but open her eyes!

    But she saw that the young man, at some point, had already dressed himself neatly, and his <em>innate talent</em> became shrouded once more.

    "Why did you..." Shen Nanyin suddenly felt a wave of frustration, looking at Yun Xiao in disbelief.

    Yun Xiao looked down at her with contempt and said calmly, "Why didn''t I touch you? Please, with so many people watching, do you take me for a pervert?"

    After a pause, he looked her up and down and added, "Besides, I''m not interested in married women, especially ones who''ve had children."

    Shen Nanyin was speechless. She really wanted to die. She had already resigned herself. <em>So you just used me to show off your manhood, to prove you''re not a celestial ve?</em>

    Was there such a way to humiliate someone?!

    For a moment, her emotions were mixed; she should have felt relieved, but somehow, she also felt a bit disappointed.

    "With things like this, I can never return to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm in this life; you might as well take a liking to me..."

    Of course, Shen Nanyin only said this in her heart. She sighed deeply; her once fearful eyes gradually turned wistful, looking at Yun Xiao with a hint of reproach...

 Chapter 918 (1) - Like I Said, Im Not an Exhibitionist! I Get Nervous in Front of So Many People!

    Shen Nanyin started viewing Yun Xiao in a new light.

    Yun Xiao was powerful, defiant, wicked, and brave. In terms of appearance, he was unmatched in the world. His only w had now be a tremendous advantage... Such a perfect youth¡ªwasn''t he 10,000 times more perfect than the Young Dragon Lord, Long Hao?

    Once Shen Nanyin changed her perspective and returned to objectivity, her gaze transformedpletely. From extreme disdain and disgust¡ªas if looking at a toad¡ªit became a gaze at the bright moon hanging in the sky.

    Where was the toad?

    This was the luminous moon above. Even if she considered herself a swan, he was far beyond her reach, never even ncing her way.

    Thinking of Feng Yao''s wless beauty, she finally understoodpletely. That overwhelming sense of inferiority and frustration surged through her entire being!

    "No! No!"

    Two terrified screams jolted Shen Nanyin back to reality. She looked around and found Shi Feifei and Yun Lingchen tied up not far from her.

    They were, like herself, in the same state.In such a condition, it was natural for them to be extremely frightened.

    Moreover, judging from their expressions, they had clearly witnessed Yun Xiao''s <em>proof of manhood</em> just moments ago.

    Shi Feifei managed better, having seen more of the world. But Yun Lingchen, such a pure soul, her eyes were still wide with shock, her mind in a daze. With only a thin veil covering her, even the noblest of fairies would be scared out of their wits at this moment.

    "I beg you, please show mercy and spare us!" Shi Feifei pleaded, twisting anxiously, struggling to kneel before Yun Xiao, her face wet with tears.

    In her bound state, she appeared even more striking.

    "Don''t tter yourselves; he doesn''t fancy us," Shen Nanyin said, exhaling deeply, surprisingly the calmest among them. She added, "Besides, even if he doesn''ty a finger on us, returning to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm means certain death for us."

    As she spoke, Shen Nanyin seemed to make a decision. She knew that as a great disgrace to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, there was only one path left for her survival.

    "Hold up!"

    Before Shi Feifei could respond, Yun Xiao appeared before Yun Lingchen and said calmly, "It''s not that I''m not interested in you two; it''s that I do appreciate this pure little sweetheart."

    At these words, Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei felt a deep sense of humiliation. Yun Lingchen, already bewildered, trembled and fainted on the spot.

    Yun Xiao sighed. "Well, fainted or not, it makes no difference."

    "You two cooperate¡ªscreaming and crying is enough to stay alive," Yun Xiao said coldly, casting a nce at Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei.

    "Understood! Understood!" Shi Feifei and Shen Nanyin exchanged a nce and hurriedly nodded.

    Yun Xiao directly retracted the Sky Sea Silk, and only then did the vast curtain disperse. However, the fabric of the Sky Sea Silk still enveloped three immacte beauties, all under hisplete control.

    Though tightly wrapped, it was clear their battle armor had been shattered. Even if it was invisible, the rtively tight <em>packaging</em> entuated their lines perfectly.

    Moreover, it did not diminish Yun Lingchen¡¯s exquisite and pure beauty.

    Many people who had just arrived to join the spectacle saw this scene and couldn''t contain their nosebleeds.

    A lot of people choked on the spot!

    Yun Xiao looked around. As he had estimated, Zhao Cann and a few hundred others were present, and on the other side, the 800 from Long Hao and Long Kun''s side had also returned. The two Young Dragon Lords had appeared again!

    Seeing the wild rage in their eyes, Yun Xiao smiled.

    "You little ones, think you can fight me?"

    "I''ll humiliate you all to death!"

    "Yun Xiao! Yun Xiao!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    From the crowd, Zhao Cann, who had lost three legs, had a deathly pale face. Moments ago, he had red at Yun Xiao¡¯s <em>innate talent</em>, then at himself¡­ It was a case of identity swapping!

    The clown was himself all along!

    Zhao Cann was near his breaking point. In this moment of despair, he still tried to take responsibility, trembling as he spoke to Yun Xiao, "I''ll do whatever you say. We won''t interfere with the Dragon Devil n anymore. Please don''t tarnish Yun Lingchen, or the Elysian Immortal Pce will truly feud with your Harmony Divine Pce to the end. Now, we still have a chance to reconcile!"

    "Well said. In that case, if you want me to release this little rabbit, you must agree to one thing," Yun Xiao replied.

    "What is it..." Zhao Cann said nervously.

    Yun Xiao was straightforward, "Have your men stall the other members of your Alliance Army to facilitate my hunting of the Dragon Devil n."

    "That''s impossible!" Zhao Cann broke down.

    "Oh?" Yun Xiao pulled the unconscious Yun Lingchen beside him, ced a hand on his waist, and with the other hand pinched Yun Lingchen¡¯s cheek, he sneered, "Such a beautiful beauty should be enjoyed in an uninhabited ce, but if you don¡¯t obey, don¡¯t me me when it¡¯s done publicly."

    "Stop!" Zhao Cann cried, and the other disciples of the Elysian Immortal Pce followed suit. They exchanged nces and made a unanimous decision.

    Facing the Dragon Devil n''s forces that had just surged forward, Zhao Cann sorrowfully said, "We apologize. We have no choice but to rescue Yun Lingchen!"

    With that, he signaled his men to advance against the opposing force.

    The 800-strong force, mostly spectators who hade to watch the spectacle, arrived just in time. They stared wide-eyed and eximed, "What''s going on? Aren''t they doing it in the Sky Sea Silk?"

    So much for watching a show! After traveling a long distance back, not only couldn''t they enjoy the spectacle, but now these men from the Elysian Immortal Pce were attacking them?

    "What are you doing? Don''t hit me, I''m just here to watch!"

    "Damn it! Are you crazy?"

    "Retreat! This ce is poisonous."

    In the midst of the chaos, these young geniuses who had arrived were no fools. They could see that the two Young Dragon Lords were on the brink of defeat.

    Without any real excuses, they had to fabricate reasons to swiftly escape this vortex.

    So, the Alliance Army began to fragment as the battle raged on, scattering to watch the drama unfold from a distance.

    "That celestial ve is truly something. He revealed his true form to lure us back, but his real target was still those two Young Dragon Lords!"

    "These two Young Dragon Lords aren''t even on his level!"

    "By the way, is that guy''s power real?"

    "The Young Dragon Consorts were screaming in awe, what do you think?"

    "Did he actually get it in?"

    "I couldn''t see clearly, but if you were Yun Xiao, with such a juicy prize in your mouth, wouldn''t you eat?"

    "Sure, I''ll eat, but why just take a bite?"

    "You don''t understand. Nobody''s perfect. Yun Xiao might only take a single bite!"

    "Now that you mention it, it bnces things out. When I saw his innate talent earlier, I thought it was his arm. I felt so inferior!"

    "Look at those two Young Dragon Consorts, to be honest... even just a bite wouldn''t have been a waste of life!"

    "Absolutely mind-blowing. The Dragon Devil n''s physical talents are just too strong!"

    These words didn¡¯t even disguise their contempt for the Dragon Devil n, showing just how much their former followers now despised them

    ¡°Castrated dog!¡±

    As most of the Alliance Army receded, over 30 men from the Dragon Devil n surged toward Yun Xiao, each one burning with fury.

    In their eyes, Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei were weeping and sobbing, their faces bleak, as if they had lost all hope in life.

    This sight drove the two Young Dragon Lords into a berserk rage.

    They had thought that by returning, they could still intervene. But was it all over?!

    Yun Xiao saw the two Young Dragon Lords'' hysterical anger and knew they had misunderstood.

    This big fish had returned, perfect for serving up as bait!

    So, Yun Xiao pulled Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei to his side, cheerfully saying, ¡°Two Young Dragon Lords, my apologies. My little guy was a bit too nervous with so many people watching and fired the shot too hastily. I¡¯ve embarrassed myself, but next time I¡¯ll ensure your noble madams are thoroughly entertained.¡±

    <em>PUFF! </em>Blood from Long Hao and Long Kun spurted ten feet high, matching their stature.

    ¡°Kill! Kill! Kill!¡±

    They roared like wild beasts, all the transformed Dragon Devils, nearly half of the Dragon Devil n¡¯s talents, charging straight at Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Want to stay alive? Behave and stay still.¡±

    After Yun Xiao spoke into Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei¡¯s ears, the two nodded like chicks pecking at seeds, their eyes filled with deep reverence for him.

    As for the two Young Dragon Lords who had abandoned them, seeing them on the verge of mental copse and being toyed with by Yun Xiao... all they felt was sorrow!

    There was no longer any trace of care.

    ¡°Actually, he never treated me as a person. I was just a tool for breeding and showing off,¡± Shen Nanyin choked out as she closed her eyes, her eyshes fluttering.

 Chapter 919 (2) - No Death, Only Humiliation!

    "How did you not realize it sooner? We''re just lying to ourselves and convincing ourselves that we''re happy. These so-called Dragon Devil men don''t even protect their own wives; instead, they trample on them... I truly don''t know how they have the audacity to im to be the mightiest men in the world..." Shi Feifei sighed softly.

    "These days at the Grand Assembly Arena felt like a dream. We all took it seriously, but sadly, it was all fake. Look at their true colors; until now, they''ve treated us like their private cattle. When our lives were threatened, they showed no reaction, but when we damaged their reputation, they went mad," Shen Nanyin cried, tears streaming down her face.

    "Let it all be destroyed! I''m tired!" Shi Feifei responded in silence.

    "Feifei, if bing a traitor means survival, would you be willing?" Shen Nanyin whispered.

    Shi Feifei remained silent for a moment. Their fate was not hard to foresee¡ªdeath was certain, and the only way out was...

    She took a deep breath and suddenlyughed helplessly. "Of course, I would. We don''t have any sense of patriotism anyway. Whoever is strong, I admire. After all, humans are animals too, and females are just as much trophies as males..."

    At this point, she asked Shen Nanyin, "What should we do?"

    Shen Nanyin looked toward Yun Xiao, who was facing off alone against half the Dragon Devil n geniuses, and bit her lip firmly. "Be his sycophants, and tter him!"

    Shi Feifei also looked over.The young man in white seemed lonely, but in reality, his strength was like that of a fiend.

    She had already seen the oue of this battle!

    In his beautiful eyes, a scene of brutal assassination flickered. The young man in white wielded an azure sword, a violet umbre, and a golden soul. Wherever he went, those hulking Dragon Devil n geniuses shattered like tofu beneath his de!

    Indeed, they were no match!

    "After using us to get rid of his status as a celestial ve and luring the Dragon Devil n back. He''s going to wipe them out entirely! After this battle, he will shock the entire Samsara Gxy with his perfect genius, garnering more attention than Feng Yao! He will even be the pride of the Heavenly Deity Ster River''s campaign in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto..."

    As Yun Xiao ughtered those Dragon Devil n men, Shen Nanyin wore an exhrated expression, murmuring to herself as if proud of it.

    Those Dragon Devil n men who had once been arrogant before her now fled and died miserably like wild dogs, devoid of any honor or grandeur.

    There was only misery, cowardice, and sorrow.

    At that moment, Shen Nanyin even forgot that she was part of the Dragon Devil n. In her eyes, there was only the young man in white, embodying strength and grandeur, with a hint of wickedness. The fiercer he killed, the softer her heart became.

    "Strong, so strong..." Shi Feifei beside her murmured, her eyes shining with admiration as she fixed her gaze solely on the powerful figure in white.

    Meanwhile, the other members of the Alliance Army and the spectators in the MIllion Starlight Pce watched the ughter in absolute silence.

    "Eunuch dog! Eunuch dog!"

    In the end, before the blood-stained figure in white, only Long Hao and Long Kun, the two burly Young Dragon Lords as towering as mountains, remained.

    They were drenched in blood, their bodies marked with countless wounds. Their Dantians even had punctures, with much of their tribtion power leaking out.

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! </em>Two azure sword beams shed violently from beneath them. Long Hao and Long Kun finally couldn''t stand, copsing to the ground drenched in blood.

    Their eyes were vacant, staring at the blood-filled pit beneath them. From that moment, their majesty left them.

    They had been defeated!

    All over, only a life of shame and ruin remained.

    When Yun Xiao finished them off, Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei couldn''t help but sneer, feeling no pain, even a bit of disdain.

    This was the fate of weak men!

    Anyway, it had nothing to do with them!

    Everyone watching this scene couldn''t find words.

    "What now? You''ve lost your manhoods. Still nning to attack the Extreme Yin Star, destroy the Harmony Divine Pce, and exterminate the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm?" Yun Xiao approached Long Hao and Long Kun, looking coldly.

    "Eunuch dog..." Long Hao red fiercely, his face contorted, saying, "We may have been defeated, but our Southern Divine Dragon Realm is ten times stronger than your Harmony Divine Pce. Once we leave this Grand Assembly Arena, all the women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm will be ughtered!!"

    He never let go of his pride, so until now, he still called Yun Xiao <em>eunuch dog</em>, refusing to ept his defeat. At this moment, who was truly inept?

    "Kill us! Kill us!" Long Kun climbed up, gripping the de of the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, and howled at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao withdrew his sword, calmly said, "You two are the most useless. My sword does not kill ipetent scum. If you want to die,mit suicide yourselves."

    "You!"

    Long Hao and Long Kun despaired. They knew Yun Xiao was strong and wanted him to end them, so that even in death, they would have some dignity.

    But tomit suicide would be truly pathetic! They were unwilling!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao didn''t kill them but struck their weak spots, causing their insides to copse.

    <em>SMACK! SMACK!</em>

    Yun Xiao gave each of them a p, pinching their dragon horns, saying, "Your slogan is to fight for the celestial ves, right? To achieve greatness, sacrifices must be made. Only by bing celestial ves can you understand them. So from now on, you can fight honorably to rescue the celestial ves! I support you, but I won''t participate, because I''m not one. If you don''t believe me, ask your wives."

    <em>PUFF! </em>Long Hao and Long Kun coughed up blood repeatedly, in utter humiliation, pain, and despair.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao stood up, looking coldly toward the sky, in the direction of the Grand Assembly Arena''s recording formation.

    He calmly said, "I owe the Three Divas of the Harmony Divine Pce a favor and also want to change the oppression of the celestial ves through peaceful means. I have my own solution. But your Southern Divine Dragon Realm insisted on causing chaos and turning the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm into a hell on earth. So, you can''t me me when I tell you that the current state of your two Young Dragon Lords here will be the fate of your whole Dragon Devil n."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 920: Representing the Heavenly Deity Stellar River!

    When Yun Xiao forced Long Hao and Long Kun to return, single-handedly ying the collective geniuses of the Dragon Devil n, the vast Million Starlight Pce erupted once again.

    Countless powerful beings from all sides watched breathlessly as the young man took lives with each sword strike.

    Those tall and burly youths of the Dragon Devil n, each transforming into their Dragon Devil forms, were domineering and ferocious, seemingly capable of tearing apart giant beasts. Yet in front of Yun Xiao, they were like plump chickens, allowing him to grasp their necks, sh their throats, and drain their blood.

    These haughty geniuses, faced with death, were terrified beyond measure, writhing in fear. They wept for mercy, bowed and crawled on the ground, their ugly true selves on full disy...

    However, Yun Xiao''s eyes were cold and detached, his azure sword and violet umbre killing violently. His white garments fluttered as he moved gracefully, killing with the precision of an artist. Every moment his sword rose, blood flew, and the scene was filled with beauty.

    Undoubtedly, this bewitched many women at first nce.

    A genius with perfect looks andbat prowess, whose only w was ack of <em>manhood</em>, was now found to not only possess <em>manhood</em> but also extraordinary talent... The impact on their hearts was immense!

    Where could one find such a perfect young divine talent?

    Those once lofty geniuses of the Dragon Devil n had now be his stepping stones!"Incredible! Incredible!"

    "The Harmony Divine Pce''s celestial ve... No, this genius young man, a desperate ouw defying the heavens, his personal charm is off the charts!"

    "The geniuses of the Dragon Devil n are truly being abused like dogs..."

    "Those two Young Dragon Lords have lost both their women and their troops!"

    As people were still gaping and murmuring, they watched as the two Young Dragon Lords were castrated by Yun Xiao. In an instant, the shock in the Million Starlight Pce reached its peak!

    "Dominate his wife, take away his manhood, and annihte his brothers! This Yun Xiao is incredible!"

    "The illustrious Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s unparalleled geniuses have been reduced to scraps by one person... This is so disgraceful!"

    "Disgrace extends throughout the entire Samsara Gxy! And this is what they call our Heavenly Deity Ster River''s three great ns?"

    "To be honest, the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce aren''t doing much better..."

    Anyway, the Million Starlight Pce was roaring. Yun Xiao''s reputation had dramatically changed, transforming from a down-and-out toad in the sewer that everyone mocked to a radiant zing sun in the clouds!

    Now this was true vindication!

    Compared to before, Yun Xiao''s behavior hadn''t changed. But reality was such that, no matter where, when someone demonstrated unparalleled strength, people would imagine their actions as just and righteous.

    Previously, Yun Xiao was a vicious, cruel, and shameless eunuch cultivated by the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    But now, he was an invincibly perfect luminary born among a group of women.

    He had instantly be the pride of the Heavenly Deity Ster River in the hearts of some people!

    "See! Our Heavenly Deity Ster River''s pinnacle genius is no worse than any other Ster River!"

    Sure enough, such sentiments quickly arose and gradually formed a consensus.

    It turned out that the people''s support for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm was merely due to admiration of strength. When a new powerful figure emerged, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s support plummeted as their face was lost, yet their impotent rage did not help!

    The rampant mockery flooded the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s strongholds like rivers of filth, soaking their reputations!

    The in geniuses of the Dragon Devil n¡ªtheir parents and elders¡ªwere all present.

    They hade eagerly to discuss the so-called Supreme Yin Cauldron, only to watch helplessly as their daughters-inw were disgraced and their sons were brutally killed.

    These self-righteous old men felt their faces being mercilessly gouged, blood streaking across their features. Their restrained fury twisted their expressions beyond recognition.

    Laughter echoed everywhere!

    Thisughter was a direct challenge to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s hegemony. In another setting, the Dragon Devil n might have risen to ughter the jesters, but now, with countless millions watching and discussing the events, retaliation was impossible.

    At least 100,000,000 people were gossiping and debating how to respond.

    They had no choice but to hold back.

    Each formidable leader of the Dragon Devil n watched in agony as their sons were abused and killed like dogs. Their inner volcanoes erupted, yet they forced themselves to remainposed, their throats on the verge of bursting from suppressed rage.

    ¡°Dragon Emperors!¡±

    They could no longer endure it. Their faces turned ashen, resembling those who had ingested filth. When they looked towards the Dragon Devil n¡¯s leaders, they saw that even the Dragon Emperors did not fare any better.

    This was especially true for the Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor!

    Yun Xiao trampled on their sons in humiliation, bound their daughters-inw, and turned them into the world¡¯sughingstocks. Every subtle change in the faces of their sons and daughters-inw was impossible to hide from these old men.

    Their sons were broken by abuse, the noble Young Dragon Lords groaning and convulsing.

    Their daughters-inw were conquered, the esteemed Young Dragon Consorts weakened and submissive!

    In that moment, the new generation of the Dragon Devil n felt their spines snap.

    Men copsed, begging for mercy.

    Women knelt, pleading for punishment.

    Even if this was merely a game for the new generation, the scale and influence of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects dealt a devastating psychological blow to the Dragon Devil n!

    When the news reached the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, the spirits of their youths would instantly shatter. Once full of confidence, how could they remain so when their leading dragons were so thoroughly defeated?

    The elders of the Dragon Devil n began to realize the severity of the situation.

    ¡°We can¡¯t wait any longer!¡±

    They gritted their teeth, suppressing their anger.

    The pressure they conveyed ultimatelynded on the most furious¡ªthe Golden Dragon Emperor, Blood Dragon Emperor, and the old woman Gong Tianjian.

    The three were the most repressed, their faces contorted beyond recognition.

    Where was their strategic brilliance?

    Gong Tianjian snarled, ¡°Two things! First, capture the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen immediately and silence all meddlesome onlookers! She''s the fourth figure of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm; her life is valuable. Second, open the Grand Assembly Arena at once. We cannot allow this celestial ... scoundrel to cause chaos!¡±

    From her words, Gong Tianjian¡¯s domineering nature was unmistakable. Clearly, in her mind, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was on itsst legs, and even against public opinion, she would forcibly suppress any opposition.

    Now, they indeed faced a new change in circumstances. Yun Xiao had also offended the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea. After all, the Heavenly Deity Ster River ultimately bowed to the Heavenly Deity Alliance. If the other nine sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance did not interfere with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s rampage, how could others control them?

    The Blood Dragon Emperor, whose personality somewhat resembled Long Kun''s, lowered his head and spoke coldly, "It''s not impossible to do so. The Dragon Ancestor will arrive soon. Although this action is hical, it can mitigate the risks. If we act with the swiftness of a thunderbolt, annihte Yun Xiao, seize Feng Yao, and suppress the Three Divas, we can quickly extinguish this spreading spark, preventing other cmities from arising over time."

    This was the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s way of handling matters: domineering yet cautious. Whenever they detected signs of risk, they would eliminate the threat at the earliest opportunity, even if it meant facing universal condemnation, ensuring the enemy geniuses never escaped the beginner''s vige.

    As for damaging their reputation, they didn¡¯t care; afterward, they could simply bribe their way to clear their names and suppress any dissent.

    They had always operated this way. Otherwise, a force that had risen by ughtering stars and annihting ns could never have openly epted admiration or avoided negative rumors.

    At this moment, Yun Xiao hadpletely provoked these Dragon Emperors into wanting to employ risky maneuvers to eliminate him directly.

    As long as they killed Yun Xiao and seized Feng Yao, leaving only the unaltered Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, thetter would be like a trapped turtle.

    "Handle it!" the Golden Dragon Emperor didn''t wish to say more. With the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s reputation declining, it was no longer possible to wlessly enter the Heavenly Deity Alliance. It was better to act ruthlessly¡ªdomineering and against the rules.

    "At least we need several members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance to cooperate to temporarily change some rules. I¡¯m going to find them now. With the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, we should be able to put aside prejudices and negotiate," Gong Tianjian responded coldly.

    Just as she finished speaking, the Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor looked behind her and called out, "Yun Sheng!"

    Gong Tianjian''s face flickered slightly. She turned around and saw a middle-aged man dressed in white standing not far away. This man, d in white, gave off a simr aura to Yun Xiao. He wore a cloud-patterned robe, his long hair tied in a bundle, with two slender white eyebrows highlighting his lustrous ck strands. His handsome and dignified face exuded an ethereal grace, embodying the true essence of a carefree Immortal, with an air of unattached elegance.

    However, at this moment, the expression on the white-d man''s face was rather serious.

    "Senior Brother..." Gong Tianjian greeted him with a slight bow, paying her respects.

    In the Elysian Immortal Pce, the only one Gong Tianjian addressed this way was the Pce Master, who was also Yun Lingchen''s father.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "This scoundrel is truly shameless and despicable, humiliating Lingchen and Cann this way¡­!." Gong Tianjian gritted her teeth, her anger palpable.

    However, before she could continue, the man known as Yun Sheng signaled her to pause.

    "Enough, I''ve heard your piece already."

    The Golden Dragon Emperor''s brows twitched slightly as he asked, "So, how do you feel about this?"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 921: Conspiracy!

    Chapter 921: Conspiracy!

    ¡°This child will be a threat in the future, and the impact on the children now is indeed significant. However, at this Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, the other 17 Ster Rivers are all watching us mockingly. If our Heavenly Deity Alliance openly and collectively vites the Grand Assembly¡¯s regtions, it could be someone else¡¯s leverage. Once they exploit this, we have no excuses," Yun Sheng said.

    ¡°So, your intention is to refuse?¡± the Golden Dragon Emperor asked.

    ¡°It¡¯s not exactly a refusal, I''m just saying your ns are too extreme. The Elysian Immortal Pce finds it difficult to participate. My apologies.¡± Yun Sheng finished speaking, looking toward the screen and sighed, ¡°I''m a parent, just like you, worried about our children. But the interests of all beings in the Heavenly Deity Ster Rivere before our children¡­¡±

    ¡°If the Elysian Immortal Pce does not participate, the other Heavenly Deity Alliance sects certainly won¡¯t either. You are the leader; you must save Cann and Lingchen!¡± Gong Tianjian urged anxiously.

    Yun Sheng simply gave her a calm nce and shook his head. He then nodded to the two Dragon Emperors again and returned to his esteemed seat at the Elysian Immortal Pce''s section.

    ¡°His daughter is beautiful and has no grievances with that scoundrel. At least she won''t be killed or castrated. So, of course he¡¯s not anxious,¡± the Blood Dragon Emperor said gloomily.

    ¡°These sanctimonious types will suffer the worst sooner orter,¡± the Golden Dragon Emperor finished, suppressing all his agitation and fury before sitting down.

    The seats in the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s section remained dead silent. Many elders had grim faces, suppressing their impotent rage with no solution in sight.

    The spectators were still joking and mocking. But now, the celestial ves were Yang Yang, Mu Zixiao, Mu Zhilu, and even Zhao Cann, Long Hao, and Long Kun¡­ Not Yun Xiao!Yun Xiao had already stepped over these six castrated dogs, bing one of the most dazzling innate talents in the Grand Assembly Arena¡­

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Grand Assembly Arena¡­

    Under the gaze of countless elders, when Yun Xiao released Long Hao and Long Kun, the two had already copsed on the ground.

    Yun Xiao did not kill them, not even demand their Personal Pledges. They were only <em>purified</em> and severely injured. Their Dantians were damaged, and they would be unable to fight for several days, their threatpletely neutralized.

    The Young Dragon Lords were like wild dogs whose legs had been broken. They were casually tossed aside. It was a true form of humiliation.

    Meanwhile, the 800 Alliance Army troops silently watched the Young Dragon Lords, who had led them, in silent speechlessness.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Yun Xiao ignored the two Young Dragon Lords and turned back to Yun Lingchen, Shen Nanyin, and Shi Feifei.

    "Yun Xiao..." Zhao Cann was at a loss for words, tension choking his breath.

    Thest thing he wanted was for Yun Xiao to use Yun Lingchen against them again. But s, Yun Xiao wrapped his arm around her slender waist. Turning with a smile, he said, "I need the Personal Pledges from your 400 followers. Discuss it with them. Otherwise, I might have to start plowing the field with the little bunny today."

    "Hand them over! Right now!" Zhao Cann was decisive. Anxious, he not only handed over his own Personal Pledge but also urged the sect disciples who followed them to do the same.

    Those disciples feared death. Confronted with a monster like Yun Xiao, being able to hand over their Personal Pledges for safety was actually a relief.

    So, the collection of these 400 Personal Pledges went smoothly.

    "Here you go."

    At this moment, Zhao Cann was humbled beyond measure. Once a legendary figure who rose defiantly against the heavens, he now knelt thoroughly after being castrated.

    Meanwhile, the 800 Alliance Army troops had returned to watch the spectacle.

    They were die-hard loyalists summoned by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Earlier, they had looked at Yun Xiao with ridicule and contempt, but now their eyes were filled withplex emotions.

    Yun Xiao had nothing to threaten them with, so he said, "I don''t know any of you. I understand you were oppressed by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and had no choice but to oppose me. Now that you''ve seen these so-called Dragon Devil n <em>men</em>, I suppose you''ve long wanted to leave.

    "I won''t stop you. If you wish to go, just leave¡ªthe farther, the better. Return to guard your Taiyi Sourcecores and don''t meddle in matters that don''t concern you. Of course, if you wish to stay and hand over your Personal Pledges, that''s fine too. At least I can help you win!"

    His words caused the Alliance Army geniuses to exchange nces.

    In their ownnds, they were figures like Yun Xiaomanding great followings and acting with arrogance. But now, they were reduced to mereckeys.

    Hearing they could leave, many naturally wanted to escape this vortex as soon as possible.

    Getting away wasn''t easy.

    But to Yun Xiao''s surprise, over 100 people, risking retribution from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, actually volunteered to hand over their Personal Pledges. This was entirely due to Yun Xiao''s personal charisma.

    This scene naturally caused many to think deeply and feel a chill.

    "Stop! Don''t go!" Long Hao realized what was happening. Bloodied, he was furious, ring fiercely at the Alliance Army geniuses.

    "If you dare to leave, you''re dead! In this Grand Assembly Arena, only Yun Xiao is strong. But in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, our Southern Divine Dragon Realm is ten times stronger than the Harmony Divine Pce! If you dare to leave, you''re traitors to your sects! You''ll bring about the destruction of your entire sects!" Long Kun shouted sharply.

    "I order you to quickly disperse, attack the Extreme Yin Star, and join up with the other three Young Dragon Lords!" Long Hao growled.

    They thought these threats would be absolutely effective. These people feared the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to death. But to their utter surprise, as soon as they spoke, those who were leaving hurried even faster, and those handing over their Personal Pledges quickly tossed them over, fearing Yun Xiao wouldn''t ept them in time.

    "No matter how strong the Southern Divine Dragon Realm is, they can''t take on all our sects at once, can they?"

    "Of course not! These two celestial ves underestimate us too much."

    "While none of us can match the Southern Divine Dragon Realm individually, what about these hundreds of sects? If everyone leaves, then so will I!"

    These Alliance Army geniuses were no fools. They understood the power of unity, and Long Hao''s words couldn¡¯t sway them.

    In the end, Long Haocked the ability to defeat Yun Xiao alone, and the other three Young Dragon Lords were equally inscrutable. They didn¡¯t want to die unnecessarily and chose to leave as quickly as possible.

    With a roar from Long Hao and Long Kun, all 800 Alliance Army troops dispersed in an instant.

    Their Alliance Army, oncepletely crushed, now either fled or sided with Yun Xiao, leaving the two Young Dragon Lords as solitary generals without even a single soldier.

    At that moment, the two Young Dragon Lords felt an overwhelming sense of defeat and sorrow, a profound despair that was both pitiful and repulsive in the eyes of the two Young Dragon Consorts.

    "Yun Xiao."

    Shen Nanyin lowered her head slightly, her eyes glistening and her face flushed as she looked up at the man who still seemed like a child.

    "Get dressed yourself." Yun Xiao loosened his grip on the Sky Sea Silk, giving them some space.

    "Yes."

    Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei behaved obediently, their affectionate gazes causing Long Hao and Long Kun to spit blood in frustration.

    Behind the cover of the Sky Sea Silk, they didn¡¯t act coquettishly. Instead, they quickly put on their clothes. After all, this was not a ce for indulgence; keeping things brief was alreadymendable.

    There would be plenty of opportunities in the future.

    After dressing, Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei did not flee. They exchanged a nce and knelt pitifully before Yun Xiao.

    "What are you doing?" Yun Xiao asked curiously.

    Shi Feifei''s eyes were slightly red as she spoke, "We''ve already been sullied by you. Returning to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm means certain death."

    "Don''t say such nonsense," Yun Xiao replied, exasperated.

    "For Dragon Devil men, there''s no difference. Last time, I was already doomed, but I still held onto hope. Now, I have no hope." Shen Nanyin looked at Yun Xiao with a sorrowful voice, "Now only you can save us. Shi Feifei and I are willing to follow you, to work tirelessly for you, anything, as long as we can survive."

    Yun Xiao hadn''t expected them to be so straightforward and bold.

    Indeed, they were doomed if they tried to go back.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous. What value do you two hold for me?¡± Yun Xiao shook his head.

    Shi Feifei bit her lip and sweetly said, ¡°We¡¯re very capable. We can guarantee your satisfaction. You haven¡¯t experienced this scale before, have you?¡±

    Her words were explosive, causing Yun Xiao¡¯s face to flush as he realized he might not be able to keep up with them.

    Indeed, who had ever experienced something like this?

    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to her nonsense,¡± Shen Nanyin moved closer to Yun Xiao, her voice low. ¡°I know the Southern Divine Dragon Realm has a vile scheme targeting your Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. If I tell you, you could prepare in advance and save many lives.¡±

    ¡°Tell me!¡± Yun Xiao demanded.

    ¡°When we safely reach the Extreme Yin Star, I will tell you. There¡¯s no rush,¡± Shen Nanyin bit her lip, her voice filled with worry. ¡°The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm will ept us, right? Women won¡¯t make things difficult for each other?¡±

    Yun Xiao looked at them for a moment.

    ¡°All right, I¡¯ll protect you.¡±

    Those simple words brought tears to the eyes of the two Young Dragon Consorts, their bodies feeling weak.

    Obediently, they stood and waited by Yun Xiao¡¯s side. The admiration in their eyes was unmistakable.

    Convincing women of the Dragon Devil n to defect was indeed a soul-crushing blow to the men of the Dragon Devil n!

    They also had their pitiful side, and Yun Xiao decided to give them a chance.

    ¡°Bro, that¡¯s wonderful! You''re bringing back all this milk for me!¡± Red Moon cried out immediately.

    ¡°You¡¯re too naive. That milk is exclusively for him, and has nothing to do with you,¡± Blue Star chuckled.

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe it! Brothers share fortunes and hardships. We have unity¡­¡±

    ¡°Shut up!¡± Yun Xiao silenced them.

    At that moment, Yun Lingchen slowly regained consciousness.

    Earlier, Yun Xiao had also instructed Shen Nanyin to help her dress. Now, she was wearing her original pink dress, looking like a dazed little white rabbit just waking up, somewhat bewildered.

    But soon, she saw everything around her clearly and let out a startled scream. Tears streamed down her face as she trembled, staring at Yun Xiao.

    ¡°You¡­ you didn¡¯t do anything to me, did you¡­?¡± Yun Lingchen cried out sadly.

    ¡°I¡¯ve done everything that needed to be done. From now on, you are my woman. I even dressed you myself, witnessed by countless millions. Don¡¯t break off our engagement,¡± Yun Xiao teased with a smile.

    ¡°Ah!¡± Yun Lingchen¡¯s vision went dark, and she fainted again.

    ¡°You¡¯re really bad,¡± Shi Feifei realized she was growing increasingly fond of him.

    He was just too perfect!

    ¡°Yun Xiao!¡±

    Still lost in amusement, Yun Xiao heard Feng Yao calling out from the Mortal Dust Devil Seed.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Hurry back! Three Young Dragon Lords and three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects are here! We can¡¯t hold on much longer! If you don¡¯t return soon, you won¡¯t have anywhere to return to!"

 Chapter 922: A Battle Between Good And Evil!

    Chapter 922: A Battle Between Good And Evil!

    On the Extreme Yin Star, a genuine battleground for the new generation of Heavenly Deity Ster River cultivators erupted, making it the second most prominent focus within the Grand Assembly Arena.

    Other Ster Rivers hadn''t dared to y on such a grand scale. They mostly engaged in territorial conquests independently, rarely forming alliances like the Dragon Devil n to eliminate rivals.

    In other Ster Rivers, there were typically one or two supreme sects wielding ultimate authority, establishing branches across dozens of worlds, unlike the Heavenly Deity Ster River, where the ten sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance stood on equal footing.

    The empire, long divided, must eventually reunite; and reunited, must eventually divide. To outsiders, it appeared the Heavenly Deity Ster River had entered a cycle of constant division and reunion, with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm undoubtedly the biggest dark horse among the fragmented powers.

    In such a scenario, interference, infiltration, and support from external forces of other Ster Rivers certainly existed, though mostly behind the scenes.

    Rumors even suggested that behind the Southern Divine Dragon Realmy the influence of several other Ster Rivers. Otherwise, how else could they have risen so swiftly?

    So, the celestial war of the new generation on the Extreme Yin Star mirrored the future of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. After Yun Xiao''s defiant act, the mes of war here immediately became the new focal point.

    The three Young Dragon Lords were apanied by almost 50 Dragon Devil n prodigies, along with the noble cultivators from the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star, plus the support of 1,500 geniuses from various allied sects.

    They descended upon the Extreme Yin Star in an unstoppable, majestic wave, their presence overwhelming and formidable.Upon learning that Yun Xiao had single-handedly attempted to halt Long Hao and Long Kun''s force, the three Young Dragon Lords and the youthful leaders of the three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects immediately decided tounch an assault on the Extreme Yin Star and seize their Parent g.

    So, the 1,500-strong Alliance Army force, brimming with lethal intent and unwavering conviction, surged toward the Extreme Yin Star Barrier.

    At that moment, the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, slightly empowered by Yun Xiao publicly revealing himself as the Star Liege, was still far weakerpared to the Southern Divine Dragon Star Barrier, which had been amplified a hundredfold.

    To these 1,500 Alliance Army troops, it posed no threat.

    Among these geniuses, 100 hailed from the Dragon Devil n or were Samsara Disciples from the three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects.

    With these Fourth Baptism Realm Samsara Disciples leading the charge, Yun Xiao''s captives on the Extreme Yin Star appearedpletely outmatched.

    Inside the Extreme Yin Star, 1,000 individuals were either former Dragon Devil n supporters or followers of the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea. To the Alliance Army, only idiots would truly fight for the Extreme Yin Star.

    So, most people believed that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s attempt to seize the Extreme Yin Parent g was nothing but making a mountain out of a molehill.

    Yun Xiao was indeed formidable, but that was the realm of peak geniuses. They could simply gather high-level forces to encircle and ughter him. Why waste so much time and involve so many people to capture the Extreme Yin Star?

    They simply didn¡¯t understand.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, when the two sides shed, the Alliance Army''s troops were dumbfounded to find the Extreme Yin Star''s captives fighting with such ferocity.

    Amidst the surging blizzard, both sides charged at each other. In an instant, Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial treasures flew everywhere.

    ¡°They must be insane!¡±

    ¡°Why are they fighting so hard? Don¡¯t they care about their lives?¡±

    The 1,500 Alliance Army troops had barely made contact before being met with a fierce counterattack, throwing them into utter chaos.

    ¡°You¡¯re all crazy!¡±

    They had no choice but to steel themselves and fight with all their might, or they might truly perish here.

    Across the entire Extreme Yin Star, sword rays shed, celestial treasures swept, and celestial techniques roared, dazzling brilliance and relentless shouts filling the air!

    These Alliance Army troops had no idea that Yun Xiao¡¯s captives weren''t actually crazy. Yin Sword Embryos had taken root in their Dantians, forcing their hands!

    The captives could only cast aside all distractions and defend the Extreme Yin Star with all their might.

    The Yin Sword Embryos,bined with Yun Xiao¡¯s personal charisma, indeed allowed the defense of the Extreme Yin Star to achieve some sess at the outset, directly blocking the 1,500 enemies within the centralyer of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier, causing the attackers to tumble and lose their footing.

    But soon after, the Alliance Army became enraged.

    ¡°They''ve made the wrong choice. We no longer need to consider them our kindred spirits. Eliminating the Harmony Divine Pce is the sacred mission of every cultivator in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Whoever aligns with the tiger and stubbornly obstructs us is battling the heavens and the people, deserving nothing but death! I, Long Zhen, hereby warn you all. Anyone who continues to obstruct us will descend to hell!¡±

    At the forefront of the Alliance Army stood a young man with violet hair. Standing ten feet tall, he was handsome and imposing, appearing even more righteous than Long Hao. Like the rising sun, hemanded the battlefield, a born emperor.

    Under hismand, the Alliance Army moved as if they had received a divine decree. To Yun Xiao''s captives, this was a significant act of suppression and a heavy blow.

    Many instantly panicked upon hearing this.

    Their panic stemmed from seeing no hope of victory for the Extreme Yin Star. Yun Xiao had yet to resolve the situation on his side, and facing the Alliance Army led by the peak geniuses in the Fifth Baptism Realm, they saw no glimmer of hope.

    It was merely a question of dying now orter.

    Such setbacks could easily diminish their morale. Even if the looming threat of the Yin Sword Embryos forced them to give it their all, the gap in power would inevitably lead them to aplete rout.

    The captives could only grit their teeth and hold on.

    "We can''t hold much longer! Bai Lu!" Gusu Yan eximed dramatically, turning to Bai Lu who was attacking with her Ghost-Faced Celestial Spiders.

    "Hold on a bit more, I don''t want to be eliminated so quickly..." Bai Lu fought side by side with the Bloodvine Young Master, Jiang Dongcheng, and others, blocking hundreds of opponents.

    The battle was fierce, a life-and-death struggle!

    "We have no chance of winning!" The Bloodvine Young Master, a Bloodvine Demon, had transformed into a mass of bloody vines, shing with a dozen Alliance Army geniuses.

    Blood flew in all directions.

    Their situation was merely a microcosm of the entire battlefield.

    "Yun Xiao will return! He''ll turn the tide!" Bai Ao''s mind buzzed. Thousands of geniuses were fighting to the death. He had never seen such a scene, not even in his dreams. Clearly, their disadvantage was too great; in this situation, he could only fantasize.

    And his words left everyone else speechless.

    "He¡¯s alone. If he can hold off another group and buy time, that¡¯s already a miracle! And you''re expecting him toe back? That¡¯s more of a dream than reality!"

    Bai Lu felt her brother was beyond help. There were countless role models in the world; why obsess over a wed celestial ve who was somewhat capable yet arrogant and rude?

    She nced back toward the direction of the Extreme Yin Parent g, her pupils narrowing. "We''re in big trouble! The enemy isunching a finishing blow! Those Harmony Divine Pce disciples and Feng Yao are all surrounded!"

    The peak geniuses could easily break through their defenses. Amid the chaos of the battlefield, they were advancing towards the rear, aiming straight for the core figures of the Extreme Yin Star!

    Bai Ao was startled. He turned to see dozens of Dragon Devil n members had already encircled Wan JI''s seven daughters. Among these enemies seemed to be the violet-haired Young Dragon Lord, Long Zhen!

    Moreover, Feng Yao''s position had not only been located but it was also clear that the young leaders of the three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects and the remaining two Young Dragon Lords had surrounded her!

    The situation seemed doomed.

    The disparity inbat power was too vast!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    </blockquote>

 Chapter 923: One Inch Meat Cubes!

    "Sis, hurry and save them!" Bai Ao shouted in rm.

    "How can we save them? Yun Xiao only considers numbers, not top-tierbat power. Our lineup, in terms of top-tier strength, is just inviting them to overpower us. We''re on apletely different level! If we go, we''ll be sending ourselves to die for nothing!" Bai Lu eximed.

    If they stayed here and fought seriously, it would be manageable. But if they tried to obstruct Long Zhen, it would truly be courting death. Not only that, but it would also be bringing trouble to their own sects.

    "Things are bad..."

    Seeing the enemy closing in on Wan Ji''s seven daughters and Feng Yao, Bai Ao was so anxious tears nearly welled up. In his memory, these seven sisters of the Harmony Divine Pce all had good personalities, far from the sinister rumors he''d heard. Not to mention Feng Yao... But now, how could they survive?

    Bai Ao growled, preparing to dive down and rescue them. But unfortunately, his sister knew him too well. As he made a slight move, Bai Lu bound him with a rope-type celestial treasure.

    "Don''t go crazy!" Bai Lu snapped.

    "Let me go! I won''t ept this! They''re bullying people! The Dragon Devil n are the real thugs forming factions! They''re wolves crying wolf, the heavens are so unfair!" Bai Ao wailed.

    "Unfair your grandpa, you fool! Stop being so reckless! In this world, the strong decide what''s right. Do you really think there''s a division between good and evil? Only the strong have the right to judge, understand?" Bai Lu couldn''t stand it anymore.After she finished speaking, she didn''t want to say more. No matter how her brother struggled, she held him down to prevent him from charging forward for what he firmly believed was right.

    Then, she nced their way, seeing that Wan Ji''s seven daughters and Feng Yao were already in a desperate situation. She could only sigh.

    "Sis, if they didn''t buy celestial ves, that would be great! No one could bully them then!" Bai Ao sobbed.

    "You''re being naive." Bai Lu shook her head. Though, her heart did feel incredibly heavy.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Close to the Star Nexus, Wan Ji''s seven daughters were struggling to hold off 50 Dragon Devil n geniuses and a Young Dragon Lord.

    Before long, Hai Qing and her sisters were overwhelmed, their limbspletely pinned down!

    "Hold them down!" Long Zhenmanded with a cold gaze, his robes and violet hair billowing in the wind and snow.

    "Yes!"

    A total of 28 Dragon Devil n members, each group of four using their massive palms, pinned down the four limbs of Hai Qing and her sisters, forcing them to kneel before Long Zhen!

    With their enormous physical strength, the Dragon Devil n members easily overpowered Wan Ji''s seven daughters like they were children.

    Despite this, the sisters still struggled, forcing the Dragon Devil n members to transform into Dragon Devils just to keep them in check.

    "You treacherous women," Long Zhen muttered, lowering his head with a cold sneer.

    Hai Qing fought to lift her head, matching him with a sneer of her own. "I just got word that your other force has been wiped out. Two of your Young Dragon Lords were castrated by Yun Xiao. Soon, it''ll be you people."

    "Heh." Long Zhenughed.

    The other Dragon Devil n members burst into heartyughter.

    After their amusement faded, Long Zhen waved his hand dismissively, arching an eyebrow. "I heard the girls of the Sea Lineage are incredibly strong, with endurance as vast as the ocean, and each one pure-bodied?" ??????§§?

    Hai Qing frowned, her face twisted with resentment as she fixed her gaze on him.

    Long Zhen snorted coldly, addressing hispanions, "Hold them tight, lift them up high. Seven sisters, right? I''ll grind each of you down! I''ll expose you all!"

    His words truly ignited excitement among the Dragon Devil n members. They shouted, "Young Dragon Lord, shall we brothers take a round?"

    "Sure! Why not? Let''s go all in!" Long Zhen roared withughter.

    He could see the despair in Hai Qing and her sisters'' eyes upon hearing this. That despair was undoubtedly filled with pain and regret, for all the things they had hoped and waited for were now out of reach.

    "Lift them up!" Long Zhen bellowed with a sinisterugh, unfastening his battle armor as he advanced toward Hai Qing. "I want to see just how flexible these Sea Lineage female Martial Immortals are!"

    His evil grin, the excitedughter of the Dragon Devil n members, and the roaring sounds of the battlefield shed together!

    "Sis, sis..."

    Hai Mo, Hai Yu, and Hai Ying all cried bitter tears. They were indeed afraid¡ªnot of disgrace, but of death. Of course, they also feared that even in death, they wouldn''t be spared. In that case, their mother would surely intervene, and the chances of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm entering the top ten would vanish!

    Their tears fell in torrents, their eyes filled with sorrow.

    "Long Zhen!" Hai Qing struggled, her face contorted with anguish as she red at the looming violet-haired Young Dragon Lord. She snarled, "You''re going to die right now!"

    "Haha? Die right now? Then go ahead and kill m¡ª" Long Zhenughed, but before he could finish, an azure sword pierced his throat.

    The bloodied tip of the azure sword dripped onto Hai Qing!

    "Ah¡­!" Hai Qing eximed in shock. Seeing the tip of that azure sword, she felt a burden lift and cried out in relief.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "URGH!" Long Zhen widened his eyes, lowering his head to gaze at the azure sword at his neck, his entire being engulfed in shock and fear.

    Long Zhen hurried forward, trying to pull away from the sword!

    However, the tip of the sword suddenly twisted, the de sweeping horizontally, slicing through his neck!

    <em>PUFF! </em>Long Zhen''s head fell straight down, only half remaining stuck to his neck, swaying back and forth!

    Afterwards, a young man in white appeared before all the Dragon Devil n members!

    "It''s him!"

    "Hurry, save the Young Dragon Lord!"

    The other Dragon Devil n members cried out and roared in rm.

    However, just as they finished speaking, Yun Xiao''s sword moved as swiftly as a thunderstorm, shooting towards Long Zhen.

    <em>SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! </em>As Yun Xiao withdrew his sword, Long Zhen had just used his hand to straighten his head.

    "What now?" Yun Xiao asked him.

    "I''m going to kill you!" Long Zhen shouted furiously, about to attack Yun Xiao. But as he moved, his head, body, and limbs suddenly separated into pieces, each precisely one inch in length, width, and height.

    Long Zhenpletely disintegrated, turning into a pile of one-inch meat cubes, frozen by the raging blizzard, piling up before the other Dragon Devil n members.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao stood like a god of death, indifferent as he gazed at the Dragon Devil n members before him.

    The 50 Dragon Devil n geniuses, seeing Long Zhen instantly in into meat cubes, werepletely dumbstruck!

    Meanwhile, Hai Qing and her sisters immediately seized the opening. Their delicate bodies unleashed boundless strength, shattering the giant hands of the Dragon Devil n members.

    In no time, all seven sisters fled behind Yun Xiao. There was no need to run too far. Behind him was the safest ce¡­

    Until this moment, Hai Qing''s head was still buzzing. She gasped, staring at the handsome, young man beside her, her voice trembling, ¡°I''ve heard¡­ you¡­ you''re not a celestial ve¡­¡±

    ¡°What? Isn''t that good news?¡± Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    ¡°Mhm¡­¡±

    Hai Qing and her sisters stared at him nkly, their eyes filled with deep affection. The feelings of surviving a catastrophe and their admiration for him would never be forgotten in a lifetime.

    They found endless courage in their hearts. Each one lifted their head, standing behind Yun Xiao, and faced the Dragon Devil n members, saying, ¡°We¡¯ll be with you!¡±

    ¡°Then you better follow closely.¡±

    Afterwards, Yun Xiao stepped toward the 50 Dragon Devil n members. Behind him, the dresses of Wan Ji''s seven daughters fluttered as they followed!

    ¡°It''s fine! We still outnumber them. They''ll die all the same!¡± the Dragon Devil n roared in anger.

    ¡°Kill, kill, kill!¡±

    Both sides shed violently amidst the roaring blizzard.

    Yun Xiao, with his azure sword and violet umbre, walked leisurely, first as if he were strolling in a garden, then as if he were a wolf entering a flock of sheep.

    In the blink of an eye, corpses and blood flew everywhere!

    Yun Xiao''s sword was incredibly swift. There was no time for the enemy to react! After all, there was still a certain princess waiting for him to rescue them!

 Chapter 924: An Unbelievable Turn-Around!

    In the heart of the battlefield where a blizzard was raging, an azure Flying Sword darted through the air like a venomous serpent, shifting and changing in myriad ways. Wherever it struck, blood-filled craters remained.

    Not only that, but the Sky Sea Silk and Ster Ocean Hammer had also be Yun Xiao''s weapons. He killed with his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit riding his Flying Sword while infusing the Ster Ocean Hammer with his Prison Warden Sigil, transforming it into a Raging Dragon Hammer.

    A Dragon Devil n member¡¯s body was stronger than most Martial Immortals after transforming.

    However, none of that mattered!

    Yun Xiao''s tribtion power wasposed of three Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources! With this unrivaled power backing him, anyone struck by the Prison Warden Sigil empowered Ster Ocean Hammer was immediately turned into meat paste!

    The Sky Sea Silk transformed into a vast ocean, swirling across the battlefield, ensnaring each Dragon Devil n genius. Amid their futile roars, Yun Xiao smashed their heads into a pulpy mess.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword was still whizzing around, controlled by his Buddha''s Treasure Spiri. He was ying the enemy in body and soul, causing the Dragon Devil n geniuses to scream in agony.

    "Hold on! He can''t change anything alone! His strength will eventually run out! Once the other two Young Dragon Lords and our allies take down Feng Yao, they''ll brutally ughter this celestial ve!"

    Even in such dire circumstances, these Dragon Devil n geniuses remained stubborn, their eyes fierce, their pride unbroken."He''ll be exhausted soon!"

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao could onlyugh. He didn''t even need the Heavenly Dao Sariras to top himself up anymore. He had the Boundless Light. With it, his Corona acted as arge external Dantian!

    The energy of heaven and earth funneled into the Primordial Sphere, converted automatically into tribtion power, allowing Yun Xiao to kill without limit!

    What made Yun Xiao sensational in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was not just his immensebat strength, but also his endurance and his ability to unleash the secret arts of other sects!

    Meanwhile, these Dragon Devil n members, trapped within the mountain, still foolishly hoped they could hold out until Yun Xiao was exhausted...

    Their stubborn resistance was useless against the killing intent Yun Xiao had disyed since the battle began.

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! PUFF! </em>With his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit paving the way, Yun Xiao''s Flying Sword continuously reaped lives!

    Within the Nine Yin Dreamscape unleashed by the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, the Dragon Devil n members with weak resistance to soul attacks found their heads flying off amidst the clouds and fog!

    Moreover, the Sky Sea Silk, Ster Ocean Hammer, and Wan Ji''s seven daughters were also wreaking havoc!

    With Yun Xiao''s help, Hai Qing and her sisters charged in with ferocious killing intent. Decades of hatred was embedded within their celestial treasures, each strike resulting in a shattered head.

    Across the main battlefield, the scales, teeth, tongues, eyes, ws, blood, and organs of the Dragon Devil n members flew everywhere.

    "Hold on!" someone shouted desperately.

    But when the remaining fighters looked around, they felt a chill. They realized that Yun Xiao had almost single-handedly ughtered the 50 Dragon Devil n geniuses, leaving corpses scattered all over. ??N????s?

    Undoubtedly, this had torn their innards apart and shattered their spirits.

    Why was this celestial ve so strong? They couldn''tprehend it.

    In their worldview, even the pinnacle geniuses from other super sects in different Ster Rivers couldn''t possibly ughter so many people alone!

    This defiedmon sense!

    Normal people didn''t possess such sustainedbat endurance, let alone suchplex and bizarre techniques. Even the strong feared being overwhelmed with numbers and ughtered.

    Why, of all people, was Yun Xiao so fearless?

    A perfect genius in sword, sigil, martial arts, and soul, with unparalleled endurance in battle¡ªhe was an all-around warrior with no weaknesses to exploit!

    "Ahhhhh!"

    These Dragon Devil n geniuses were the future pirs of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Even if they miraculously survived, in that moment, they were overwhelmed by death.

    With their deaths, what would be of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm?

    A 50-year generational gap would require the elders to work overtime to recuperate!

    They couldn''t think of such things now. Their bodies went numb, minds nk, with only fear and the instinct to flee upying their thoughts.

    "What about the other two Young Dragon Lords? What about Long Hao and Long Kun?"

    "They still have over 30 others with them!"

    "If they don''te to support us soon, our new generation of Dragon Devils will really be decimated!"

    Their misery was evident to everyone on the battlefield.

    Yun Xiao''s captives, led by Bai Lu and Gusu Yan, stared wide-eyed, their hearts roaring as they too went numb.

    The Dragon Devil n members they feared were being diced up like fish on the chopping block.

    Meanwhile, the 1,500 Alliance Army troops and three Heavenly Deity Alliance sect disciples watched with chills running down their spines. They paused their attack, their faces paled as they stared nkly at one another.

    "Is this celestial ve really that terrifying?"

    Even if they still had a chance at victory overall, at this moment, they were deeply intimidated.

    "In this situation, Long Hao, Long Kun, Zhao Cann, and Yun Lingchen''s group need to quickly arrive! We need all the Fifth Baptism Realm disciples to join forces to crush this celestial ve!

    Coincidentally, another group indeed appeared outside the Extreme Yin Star, though less than expected, only numbering 500 in total!

    Nevertheless, seeing that the two stunning beauties leading them were the two Young Dragon Consorts, the Alliance Army troops immediately felt relieved!

    "Reinforcements have arrived!"

    "Long Hao, Long Kun, Zhao Cann, and Yun Lingchen are probably making their way to surround that celestial ve!"

    "Let''s keep fighting!"

    The Alliance Army''s morale, just dampened by Yun Xiao''s assault, immediately revived.

    Wielding Swords Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial treasures, they charged towards the resisting opponents below!

    Meanwhile, the faces of Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, and the others fell once more after seeing the enemy reinforcements!

    With so much chaos on the battlefield, not everyone had received the news. However, the truth would soon be revealed.

    "Kill!" Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei took the lead, eager to show themselves, each swinging their massive Sword Souls to pave the way. Their Dragon Devil n¡¯s sword techniques, wide and sweeping, thunderously shed into the backs of the Alliance Army troops!

    The 1,500 Alliance Army troops, all with their backs to them, werepletely unguarded!

    Some were even grappling with the captives!N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The sudden <em>betrayal</em> of these 500 reinforcements immediately sparked a gruesome massacre. The 1,500 Alliance Army troops, ambushed from all sides, let out continuous screams as corpses and blood flew everywhere!

    With just one assault, massive bodies and limbs tumbled down. The Extreme Yin Star Barrier was stained red with fresh blood!

    One by one, the bewildered geniuses from various sects were slowly overwhelmed by Yun Xiao''s captives.

    "The Extreme Yin Star Barrier isn''t attacking them!"

    "They were also coerced by Yun Xiao to surrender their Personal Pledges!"

    "But why didn''t anyone warn us? We''re all on the same side..."

    These 1,500 Alliance Army troops, who had been killing viciously, now died from sheer astonishment and disbelief.

    In their minds, even if these 500 people had handed over their Personal Pledges, there was no need to sacrifice themselves so recklessly for Yun Xiao, nor was there any need tounch a surprise attack!

    They had only overestimated Yun Xiao''sbat prowess, failing toprehend his ability to conquer hearts!

    The most notable were Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei! The two extraordinarily beautiful women were killing with the greatest zeal!

    Weren''t they from the Dragon Devil n? They were the Young Dragon Consorts! How could they lead the brutal massacre of their own people¡­? Weren''t they afraid of death?

    The Alliance Army troops couldn''t understand! The more they couldn''t grasp the situation, the faster they died!

    The emergence of these 500 <em>reinforcements</em> directly reversed the tide of battle, causing the previously arrogant and ruthless 1,500 Alliance Army troops to be struck down, nked, and dispersed.

    At the same time, they were assaulted by the Extreme Yin Star Barrier''s blizzard, their battle formations shattered!

    Countless corpses continued to fall.

    Such a battle of geniuses meant that countless elders watching from the Million Starlight Pce felt their hearts bleeding.

    Countless youths were being hacked to death like cannon fodder. However, the cannon fodder was actually the future pirs of Heavenly Monarch and Empyrean Emperor sects!

    This was thergest massacre of geniuses in the history of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    Many onlookers werepletely baffled.

    Many of these geniuses were on the same side initially. Why were they ughtering their own so ruthlessly? Even the Young Dragon Consorts were personally getting involved!

    The only answer was Yun Xiao!

    At first, everyone focused solely on Feng Yao, never imagining that the celestial ve lurking behind her was the true wild card.

    "Why? Why?"

    Someone from the Alliance Army pleaded desperately at the 500 reinforcements, many of whom they recognized.

    "No reason. Yun Xiao single-handedly crippled Long Hao, Long Kun, and Zhao Cann. He also captured Yun Lingchen, killed hundreds of geniuses, and forced us to surrender our Personal Pledges. Anyone who dared to leak information or disobey orders would be immediately killed!"

    Countless Alliance Army troops gasped in horror upon hearing this.

    "So terrifying!"

    "His personalbat power is truly beyond heaven."

    They all agreed on this point.

    "But even so, fighting for a celestial ve means that once the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects ends, it will inevitably drag your sects down! Don''t forget that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm has great power and many allies, and the Harmony Divine Pce has already offended all of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. They will surely be annihted!" Many still roared in anger.

    The person on the other side sighed and said, "A wise person knows when to adapt. We can''t worry about so many things! Outside is a matter for our elders. At least here in the Grand Assembly Arena, Yun Xiao is already invincible. Whether we want to die or not, we have to follow him. We''re all being forced. There are over a thousand of us from hundreds of sects. Can the Southern Divine Dragon Realm punish us all? If that''s the case, would they practically be dering war against the Heavenly Deity Ster River?¡±

    "Nonsense! Is that what you call invincible? One person''s power is ultimately limited! We still have two more Young Dragon Lords and three young leaders from three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects! As long as you don''t cause trouble, we can take down the Extreme Yin Parent g!"

    Many on the Alliance Army side still refused to ept it, believing they still had the upper hand.

    Both sides fought while arguing!

    "Why? Why? A crippled eunuch is scaring you like this?" an Alliance Army member cried out angrily.

    "By the way, Yun Xiao isn¡¯t an eunuch!"

    "That''s bullshit. Isn''t he from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm?"

    "He is, but he still has his <em>thing</em>!"

    "What thing?"

    "Do you really need me to spell it out! It''s long, and it''s a dong, and it can make your mother sing a song!"

    "What the hell are you talking about!?"

    "He''s actually got an eight inch cocker!"

    "What¡­?"

    "I''m serious. Look at those two Young Dragon Consorts. They''ve already tasted it right in front of the two Young Dragon Lords..."

    "No way¡­"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 925: War Devil Xiao Ming!

    "Young Dragon Consorts...!"

    The remaining Dragon Devil n geniuses watched as the Young Dragon Consorts led 500 <em>reinforcements</em> to massacre theirrades. Those who had held onto hope for Long Hao and Long Kun were now in despair.

    They werepletely dumbfounded.

    "Don''t wait for Long Hao or Long Kun anymore; they''re already finished. Don''t expect anything from the other Dragon Devil n members either. Of the nearly a hundred geniuses of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm who came this time, only a few of you remain alive."

    Yun Xiao''s calm and solemn words were undoubtedly the final fatal blow.

    The Dragon Devil n members looked around... Aside from themselves and thest two Young Dragon Lords, everyone else was a corpse!

    "Urghhh!"

    The Dragon Devil n members each coughed up ck blood, their bodies convulsing as they stared at Yun Xiao, their eyes filled with fear, pain, sorrow, numbness, despair, and confusion...

    Their hearts were already dead.<em>SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! </em>Yun Xiao gripped the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, sweeping with a single stroke, sending thest few Dragon Devil geniuses flying into the sky!

    The so-called Dragon Devil n geniuses, once lofty and arrogant, were now reduced to two useless celestial ves and two Young Dragon Lords still targeting Feng Yao!

    Everyone else was dead!

    It was hard to imagine how enraged the domineering Dragon Devil n elders in the Million Starlight Pce were upon hearing the news!

    Like Long Hao, these elders could only continue to endure until the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects ended!

    But Yun Xiao knew this all too well.

    At that moment, the Alliance Army troops were still gritting their teeth and persisting, remaining arrogant... What was theirst hope?

    Naturally, it was the five Fifth Baptism Realm geniuses!

    "Yun Xiao, quickly go help Feng Yao!"

    Just as Yun Xiao had finished eliminating most of the Dragon Devil n geniuses, Hai Qing and her sisters were already urgently urging him.

    No sooner had the words fallen than Yun Xiao vanished before their eyes.

    "That was fast!" Hai Qing eximed in amazement.

    "Indeed... I just heard a rumor that he conquered the two Young Dragon Consorts, and it ended in just a few breaths." Hai Ying stuck out her tongue.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Don''t talk nonsense, he must have just been bluffing." Hai Qing flinched, her face turning slightly red, thinking to herself that this guy really had a big appetite.

    "I hope Feng Yao is safe!" Hai Mo prayed.

    "Quickly go help the others!"

    Wan Ji''s seven daughters didn¡¯t linger, resting briefly before charging toward the Alliance Army.

    The Extreme Yin Parent g had be the final focal point of this war of geniuses!

    <em>BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! </em>The valley around the Star Nexus, where the Star Barrier''s power was the strongest, had already formed a sea of blood!

    The blood of the sea fell from above the entire battlefield; it did not seep into the ground but was absorbed by the blood sea!

    This could be said to be arge amount of blood from geniuses!

    The moment Yun Xiao returned and cut down Long Zhen, blood surged from his Bag of Holding, flowing into the blood sea and expanding it more than threefold!

    These streams of blood were from the hundreds of geniuses he had in from the earlier battlefield.

    These individuals had the top-tier bloodlines in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, even more potent than many powerful beasts. Using their blood to transform the Mortal Dust Devil Blood was naturally astonishing.

    The blood of the freshly in Dragon Devil n members, including Long Zhen, and hundreds of Alliance Army geniuses, also converged into this sea of blood!

    At this moment, the blood sea was already more than six times its initial size and continued to grow.

    The blood sea raged madly, forming a storm vortex with me and lightning. The Mortal Dust Devil Blood was also corrosive and vampiric, and the asional Heaven Devourer Arrows shot out with terrifying power.

    It was this reason that the five Fifth Baptism Realm geniuses couldn''t breach the Star Nexus and seize the Extreme Yin Parent g!

    This battle was supposed to be simple, but it got harder as they fought! This was especially true when Yun Xiao returned, his torrent of blood directly boosting Feng Yao''sbat power!

    Those Fifth Baptism Realm geniuses, no matter how calm they were inside, were now furious.

    "Come on, hit me! Screw you! A bunch of losers, you can''t even touch my hair!"

    The Sanguine Spirit Dragon Corona roamed the blood sea, cursing at the five people in the sky!

    "Haha! Looks like all your Dragon Devil n members are dead? So pathetic! They were chopped to pieces by my little eunuch!

    "Hey hey, whose blood is this? Why does it taste so fake? Tsk tsk, so they are disciples from the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star!

    "Ah pfft! A bunch of dead losers, I''ll just lie here motionless. Why don''t you guys cause me some damage?"

    The Sanguine Spirit Dragon roared fiercely, growingrger with each passing moment.

    From within the sea of blood, Feng Yao''s taunts and jeers rang out loudly. Each tone was sharp and mocking, capturing the very essence of Yun Xiao¡¯s spirit. Yet, she seemed even more brazen, infuriating anyone who heard her.

    Indeed, the five who surrounded Feng Yao bore faces as cold and stern as ice, each one more lethal than thest.

    A Third Baptism Realm opponent like Feng Yao should''ve been an easy opponent for them. Yet, they were having so much trouble, afraid of harming the Supreme Yin Cauldron.

    This hesitation allowed Feng Yao to adapt.

    After Yun Xiao supplied her with fresh blood, Feng Yao grew increasingly formidable.

    At this point, the five of them hadunched several assaults into the sea of blood, only to be repelled by the Mortal Dust Devil Blood.

    To them, the Mortal Dust Devil Blood was a toxic ocean. Once they entered, their own blood was siphoned away, making it nearly impossible to seize the Parent g.

    ¡°We need to get closer and charge straight for the Parent g together!¡± a white-haired Young Dragon Lordmanded. His demeanor was graceful and pure, embodying both elegance and holiness.

    His name was Long Mu.

    Beside him stood a ck-haired Young Dragon Lord, the most robust of the five, standing 11 feet tall with coarse hair, a thick beard, and a ferocious gaze.

    This Young Dragon Lord was named Long Mo.

    Long Hao, Long Kun, Long Zhen, Long Mu, and Long Mo¡ªthese were the new generation¡¯s five Young Dragon Lords, their reputations echoing throughout the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Now, only Long Mu and Long Mo remained, still wielding divine might.

    The remaining three young leaders of Heavenly Deity Alliance sects were no less renowned.

    Among them, Xiao Ming from the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar stood out as the most influential. Towering at 15 feet, half a head taller than Long Hao and his peers, nearly two stories high, he was the mightiest devil of the new generation in the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    As a True Devil, Xiao Ming''s physique was broader and more imposing, with thick arms and legs like those of a colossal ape. His visage was terrifying, with sharp fangs protruding from his mouth, blood-red eyes, and a body d in natural ck armor.

    Most astonishing of all, he was a two-faced devil. His back featured another face and mouth, and a closer look revealed a chest and abdominal muscles on his rear. He possessed four arms¡ªtwo facing forward and two backward¡ªan eerie and violent form characteristic of the War Devil race.

    The Heavenly Devil Divine Altar was the strongest devil force in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, its core bloodline rivaling those of the Ancestral Land and Dragon Devil n.

    As the standard-bearer for devils in the Heavenly Deity Ster River, Xiao Ming feltplex emotions when facing a Yin Devil like Feng Yao.

    Yin Devils were the weakest devils. Yet, they were also the most beautiful.

    Xiao Ming was fond of Yin Devils. He aided many of them and kept several Yin Devil concubines.

    The first time Xiao Ming saw Feng Yao, he knew she was the most beautiful Yin Devil in the world. Her sweet tongue was especially exquisite.

    But Feng Yao was the Supreme Yin Cauldron desired by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    It was coveted by the humans!

    This was why Xiao Ming was conflicted. Feng Yao should have been his prey. Yet not only could he not obtain her, he had to help the Dragon Devil n seize her. This was why he hadn''t been so focused initially.

    But now, witnessing Yun Xiao''s rampage, Xiao Ming realized that things would get problematic if he didn''t secure Feng Yao. He had to grit his teeth andmit fully.

    So, with his two mouths, Xiao Ming growled, "I''m more resistant to this devil blood. I''ll clear the path!"

    "We''re in your hands!" Long Mu and Long Mo dered in unison, sping their hands.

    Of thest two remaining young leaders, one was a resentment demon from the Grieving Spirit Valley.

    The Grieving Spirit Valley had the strongest demons in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. They were even more fearsome than the devils of the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar.

    The resentment demon was a woman with a human head and body, but her lower half was blood mist. She had bright red hair, and a very alluring and eerie appearance. Her lower half was shrouded in blood mist, with vague thread-like features, and her arms were thin, bending like spider legs...

    Her name was Blood Weaver! She was a resentment demon resembling a spider. But she only resembled a spider; she wasn''t a true spider demon. Her core was a woven resentment.

    Thest young leader was Tang Zhenyan, a human. There was little to say about him. He was a very orthodox human cultivator from the Thunderme God Star, a renowned sword and sigil dual cultivation sect, ranked in the lower-middle of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    One human, one demon, one devil, and a pair from the Dragon Devil n!

    Among them, the Dragon Devil n was a variant of humans, possessing devil and dragon bloodlines.

    When Xiao Ming showed his furious face and stepped forward, the other four followed, forming a group and asserting their strength!

    "Kill!"

    Just as they were preparing to attack, a white figure suddenly appeared above the blood sea, blocking their path.

    Xiao Ming and the other four suddenly narrowed their pupils.

    Before the white robed youth, they felt a lethal threat.

    This time, Yun Xiao didn¡¯t wait for Feng Yao to cause trouble before making his move.

    In fact, when he returned, he unleashed a blood torrent that had already saved her.

    Now, Yun Xiao made a personal appearance! He didn¡¯t spare a nce at the five before him, turning to Feng Yao andmanding, ¡°Stop hiding,e out.¡±

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Although Feng Yao responded with a grunt, she obeyed. The vast blood sea steadily receded, flowing into her delicate seven-foot-tall frame.

    Despite being only seven feet, she stood over a head taller than Yun Xiao himself, quite statuesque.

    She wasn¡¯t as extravagant as Shen Nanyin. But to Yun Xiao, she was more pleasing to the eye. Coupled with the beauty, grace, allure, and the unique seductive talents of a Yin Devil, she was far more enticing than the two Young Dragon Consorts.

    Of course, Red Moon didn¡¯t see it that way¡­

    ¡°Why did you save Hai Qing and them first!¡± Feng Yao bit her lip, her face showing clear irritation as soon as she saw Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Because they were in more danger,¡± Yun Xiao replied.

    ¡°Bullshit! You''re just a lecher, going where there''s more women!¡± Feng Yao retorted with a snort.

    ¡°Boring,¡± Yun Xiao dismissed.

    The twopletely disregarded the five opponents, engaging in their own conversation.

    As Yun Xiao finished speaking, he suddenly noticed bloodstains and bruises on her arms and legs.

    ¡°Are you injured?¡± Yun Xiao frowned gradually.

    ¡°Oh, now you notice? I almost died! But I''m used to it. You never care about poor little old me,¡± Feng Yaoined.

    Yun Xiao''s expression immediately darkened, his eyes flickering with killing intent. ¡°Leave these five to me. Go lead Zu Wei, Hai Qing, Bai Lu, and the others.¡±

    ¡°What for?¡± Feng Yao asked.

    ¡°Clean up the rest of the enemy''s forces. Use their blood to heal yourself! Don''t leave a single one behind,¡± Yun Xiao said, turning to Xiao Ming and the others.

 Chapter 926: Extreme Yin Divine Sky!

    Upon hearing Yun Xiao''s words and seeing his bloodthirsty visage, Feng Yao finally realized he was truly angry.

    "Is this what they call anger for a sweetheart?"

    From being a lowly maid to a sweetheart, it was an undeniable upgrade.

    With this, all her grievances vanished, and she now had a ce to vent all her earlier frustration and anger.

    "If Yun Xiao hadn''t returned in time, we would''ve been toast! It doesn''t matter if those people from the Alliance Army aren''t directly rted. They''re still aplices who gathered together to gang up on the Harmony Divine Pce! They should''ve been prepared to lose their lives!"

    Feng Yao looked up. She saw that the Alliance Army wasn¡¯t even bothering to hide their contempt for Carefree Windy Clouds. They were still fighting, shing, and moring for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    "These fools still believe these five can suppress him?" Feng Yao nced at Yun Xiao¡¯s cold figure, feeling immense relief¡ªas if with this formidable support behind her, she had nothing to fear and could act recklessly.

    Her seven-foot frame surged skyward, delivering Yun Xiao''s new orders to Zu Wei, Bai Lu, Hai Qing, Shen Nanyin, and the others¡­

    Killing in war was an undeniable reality, but Yun Xiao''s decisive orders shook them to the core.After all, until now, Yun Xiao had been rtively merciful, focusing on recruiting the followers of the Dragon Devil n and Heavenly Deity Alliance sects.

    "Really?" Hai Qing and the others felt a mix of emotions. They knew that exterminating so many geniuses would only bring a tenfold catastrophe upon the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "I don''t know, I''m just following his orders. He said not to leave a single enemy. So, that''s what we''ll do!" Feng Yao stated coldly. Pausing, she added, "This is his style. He prefers to end conflicts with killing, ughtering until his opponents are fearful and shaken, leaving no room for ambiguity."

    In short, as long as the person in front of them was an enemy, they would be killed without exception!

    "Then kill!"

    Recalling the earlier cruelty of the Dragon Devil n and contempt of the Alliance Army, how could Hai Qing and the others not be furious?

    "Kill!"

    Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei couldn''t afford to hesitate. Ifplete submission to Yun Xiao was their only chance of survival, they might as wellmit fully, since there was no turning back.

    With Yun Xiao''s decisive orders, all those affiliated with Carefree Windy Clouds became even more ruthless. The battle between the two sides'' geniuses reached a fever pitch.

    There were almost 50 geniuses in each of the three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects, apanied by the 1,000 Alliance Army troops. Indeed, they still had the strength to entangle in battle!

    Both sides continued to fight to the death, their spirits high and their killing fierce.

    All their determination stemmed from that one core battlefield where victory had yet to be decided!

    "Don''t be afraid! Long Zhen only died because Yun Xiao caught him by surprise!"

    "There''s still the Young Dragon Lords of the ck and White Dragons, and they''re the strongest! Theirbinedbat power is extraordinary."

    "The strongest is still Xiao Ming. He''s a devil in the Mid Fifth Baptism Realm, the strongest devil in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena!"

    "Blood Weaver is basically unkible. If she joins the fight, that celestial ve is doomed."

    "Tang Zhenyan is the strongest!"

    "Five against one, is there any suspense?"

    "A single move from any of them can crush that celestial ve!"

    The more intense the war, the more heated the conflict became. They sustained their morale purely from belief. Besides putting all their faith in these five great talents, the Alliance Army had no other choice.

    Even knowing that Yun Xiao had dealt with Zhao Cann, Yun Lingchen, and the others, the Alliance Army still believed he must have used despicable means. This was the original sin of pride in human nature¡ªtoo much arrogance would make it impossible to shed that thickyer of pride.

    Unless they were truly beaten to a pulp, they wouldn¡¯t feel the pain!

    "Kill that celestial ve! Kill that celestial ve!"

    They were even unwilling to believe that Yun Xiao wasn''t a celestial ve. After all, this news came from the enemy.

    That thunderous call still echoed from the heavens, striking Yun Xiao with a cold sneer. Eachugh was filled with the arrogance of these so-called geniuses.

    And the five before Yun Xiao was the source of that arrogance.

    These five great talents narrowed their eyes, their cold gazes piercing Yun Xiao... and the Extreme Yin Parent g fluttering behind him!

    "He''s the Star Liege. Kill him, and the power of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier will wane. Capture the Parent g, and the oue is decided!" Xiao Ming, with his fifteen-foot frame, dominated the front, his voice like a beast.

    "Together!"

    "Yes!"

    Xiao Ming''s four muscr arms clutched four bloodstained war axes, dripping with fresh blood.

    The Young Dragon Lords Long Mu and Long Mo stood on either side, transforming into Dragon Devils. Their auras were indeed stronger than Long Hao''s.

    Blood Weaver wove a silky blood cloud above Xiao Ming, filled with ghostly wails and countless vengeful spirits.

    Meanwhile, Tang Zhenyan hid silently in the darkness behind Xiao Ming, the easiest to overlook but the most deadly!

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    The five roared almost simultaneously, channeling the battle intent of the 1,500 Alliance Army troops. They unleashed their tribtion power. Though they were only in the Fifth Baptism Realm, their divine might obscured the heavens and blocked the sun as they charged directly at Yun Xiao!

    Their assault intensified the chaotic battlefield, erupting into cheers and mor, stirring massive waves!

    Xiao Ming wielded four blood-stained war axes, the two Young Dragon Lords brandished gigantic Palm Swords, Blood Weaver unleashed a great bloody, and Tang Zhenyan activated his Thunder Sword Soul and me Sigil. Together, they formed a barrage of deadly strikes, surging forward with lethal intent!

    Their eyes burned with unwavering confidence and grim determination, their murderous aura overwhelming the sky!

    ¡°In the Heavenly Deity Ster River, opposing our Dragon Devil n is like battling the heavens themselves. Even with eternal talent, you will be nothing but withered bones!¡±

    The coldughter of the two Young Dragon Lords echoed from all directions, amplified by the support of the Alliance Army, making their taunts even more piercing¡­

    However, in the face of this overwhelming onught, Yun Xiao remained utterly impassive from start to finish.

    As fierce winds swept by, lifting his long hair and white robes, Yun Xiao stepped into the storm. In his hand appeared the azure Heaven Burial Sword Soul!

    Above Yun Xiao''s head soared the Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, from which ck and gold lotuses emerged. Each petal converged in its hand, transforming into a ck and gold lotus sword!

    The Buddha''s Treasure Spirit held the lotus sword, and the white-d Yun Xiao gripped a three-foot azure de. Both stood in identical stances, gathering energy for a single, decisive strike!

    This was the pinnacle sword at Yun Xiao''s current cultivation level!

    The Primordial Sphere trembled as vast amounts of celestial energy converged on the dual swords. Both the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and lotus sword quivered, unleashing sword energy and a soul storm simultaneously!

    Beside the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, space itself was torn apart, forming ck void-like fissure des that circled his sword!

    ¡°To date, Ling Chen¡¯s Divine Sky Sword Arts has been highly developed, its power remains the strongest¡­¡±

    What was Yun Xiao¡¯s greatest strength? It was his unrivaledprehension!

    With this, his Palm Sword twisted the void, surging with a grim, cold aura!

    This was the fusion of the strongest Yin Sword Embryo and Divine Sky Sword Arts!

    Gripping the sword, Yun Xiao suddenly looked up amidst the gazes of the Alliance Army.

    The blood-stained war axes, six-foot Palm Swords, blood-red spider webs, and more all hovered less than six feet from him. The savage killing intent was moments away from engulfing him, tearing him apart into fragments!

    <em>BUZZ! </em>A furious hurricane whipped around!

    In the heart of the storm, this was Yun Xiao¡¯s most perilous moment. Countless spectators had their hearts racing¡­

    Amid the flickering sparks and lightning, Yun Xiao curled the corner of his mouth.

    ¡°Compared to taking lives, you¡¯re too green!¡±

    Before his words could settle, his sword had already been unleashed!

    In a split second, Yun Xiao drew his sword, sweeping it horizontally.

    Almost simultaneously, his spirit also swept the ck and gold lotus sword!

    <em>RIP! </em>The Heaven Burial Sword Soul shed out. The Extreme Yin Annihtor unleashed an extreme wave of cold, gathering countless spatial fractures like a furious azure dragon charging out fiercely!

    This azure dragon was shadowed by a ck and gold dragon, emanating killing intent!

    This single sword was not just released. It was like a sword of destruction, d in a chilling wave, with the Divine Sky Void Render as its core, soaring like a raging dragon across tens of thousands of miles, swallowing the heavens and earth in an instant!

    A loud piercing crash shook the entire battlefield!

    Everyone stared nkly, seeing the dragon sweep into a crescent arc. In a sh of light, it split all thebined assault of the five great talents into two!

    Whether it was the blood-stained war axes, Palm Swords, or blood, they all disintegrated on the spot, blood spilling everywhere.

    "What..!?"

    Xiao Ming, Long Mu, Long Mo, Blood Weaver, and Tang Zhenyan widened their eyes suddenly, feeling as if the heavens and earth had split apart right before them!

    The heavens above and earth below, and they were caught in the middle!

    The middle was the area swept by the crescent arc, where space shattered and souls disintegrated!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The ck and gold lotus sword arc froze their spirits, making them instantly forget everything, leaving only deadly fear!

    In their final moments, they only saw the white robed Yun Xiao looking at them with disdain, already sheathing his sword!

    The youth drew his sword, then sheathed it!

    In an instant, the five heads soared into the sky!

    Only five headless corpses remained, whether burly or thin, all still driven by the momentum of their final charge¡­

    Finally, all knelt before Yun Xiao!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 927: Offer Your Blood to Atone!

    With a single strike, Yun Xiao slew five using only one sword!

    The scene just now would undoubtedly be etched into the memories of the countless spectators for a lifetime!

    Yun Xiao wasn''t merely defeating cannon fodder!

    The Young Dragon Lords didn''t need an introduction. All of them belonged to one of three supreme bloodlines of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    Meanwhile, Xiao Ming, Blood Weaver, and Tang Zhenyan were all the foremost figures of the new generation within the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    All five of them working together were supposed to be invincible! Yet, before they even got close to Yun Xiao, they fell like five radishes, heads plucked in swift session!

    How inconceivable was this turn of events!

    "Huh? What just happened!?"

    "W-w-whaaat!?""Ahhhhh! Nooo!"

    It wasn''t just within the Extreme Yin Star; the countless onlookers in the Million Starlight Pce were struck speechless, with mouths hanging wide.

    To the uninformed, all of this sounded like some bizarre ident.

    Yet, it was no ident! It was a horrific one-sided ughter! Not only that, there was an artistic beauty to it!.

    The sword swept out in a grand crescent. Be it the sequence and arrangement of heads flying, the spray of blood blossoming into a macabre flower, or the final posture of the five headless corpses kneeling in uniform submission. And the youth sheathing his sword did so with an effortless grace that filled the act with artistic beauty.

    It was as if Yun Xiao wasn''t reaping lives but plucking flowers.

    After witnessing this scene, all the onlookers felt their scalps tingle!

    Within the Extreme Yin Star, those of the Alliance Army who had held a strong faith in these five great talents before the battle were rubbing their eyes in disbelief.

    However, this was the harsh reality!

    Not only was there no mistake, but the white robed youth flicked the blood from his sword, then looked up, his gaze coldly sweeping over the Alliance Army above.

    It was the gaze of a death god!

    That single look had many geniuses in the Alliance Army cry out in terror.

    It didn''t matter who they were. In front of Yun Xiao, all had to cower and grovel.

    His style was brutal and domineering. And this style was founded on the supreme, invincible talent of the Creator Immortal!

    Yun Xiao stood over all creation. So, why would he hold back? He''d just do what he wanted!

    "It¡¯s your turn now."

    This phrase once again left many onlookers trembling!

    The name of the Alliance Army was borne with pride and arrogance, assuming a grandiosity in its very utterance.

    Yet now, the Alliance Army had be a synonym for a disheartened and defeated army.

    The white robed youth, with his azure sword and violet umbre, advanced like a tempest. Whose soul would not tremble?

    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid!¡±

    Yet even then, some of the Alliance Army still harbored hope.

    ¡°The Dragon Devil n is all dead; it¡¯s not our concern anymore!¡±

    ¡°We can surrender, offer our Personal Pledges, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes!¡±

    ¡°Yun Xiao, we are willing to offer our Personal Pledges to aid your conquest of the Heavenly Deity Ster River region in the Grand Assembly Arena!¡±

    The roughly 1,000 troops in the Alliance Army hastily ceased fighting, clustering together, shouting towards Yun Xiao.

    ¡°That¡¯s right! With us, you''ll have nearly 3,000 Personal Pledges, nearly half of those in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region, enough to make you the supreme leader of the Extreme Yin star!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be angry, we were forced by the Dragon Devil n, we can help you!¡±

    The Alliance Army troops weren¡¯t particrly worried. Some were even grinning, unconcerned after seeing so many people surrendering to Yun Xiao.

    However, this time, Yun Xiao nced at them and said, ¡°Sorry, but I already have 1,500 Personal Pledges.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s even better! Come on, let¡¯s get out of here!¡±

    ¡°He doesn''t need us? Then forget it.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t think you can boss us around in the Grand Assembly Arena. Wait until the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is over, and you¡¯ll see what real misery is¡­¡± some whispered with a sneer.

    The 1,000 Alliance Army troops, scoffing internally, turned to leave.

    But at that moment, Yun Xiao¡¯s words, colder than the chill of the Extreme Yin Star, echoed in everyone¡¯s ears.

    ¡°I don¡¯t need more Personal Pledges. But I do need blood, so none of you are going anywhere.¡±

    With such a deration, Yun Xiao essentially sentenced every member of the Alliance Army to death.

    The Alliance Army troops were stunned, turning back in anger, ring fiercely at Yun Xiao.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, don¡¯t push us too far!¡±

    ¡°The Dragon Devil n was your enemy, and you¡¯ve dealt with them. That should be the end of it. We were forced here, why target us?¡±

    ¡°Exactly! Are you crazy?¡±

    ¡°Do you know who we represent? Over 100 top celestial sects! We stand for the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River! Your Harmony Divine Pce has already offended the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and drawn the ire of both the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea. Will you offend us too?¡±

    ¡°Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star... Which of these powers can your Extreme Yin Celestial Realm contend with? You''ve already killed the top new generation from them, aren¡¯t you satisfied?¡±

    ¡°It seems you really have a death wish.¡±

    ¡°Where are the Three Divas of the Harmony Divine Pce? Why let this mad dog run loose? Do you want the Harmony Divine Pce to have no friends at all, provoking universal outrage?¡±

    The 1,000 assembled geniuses, each adding their voice, filled the air with their vehement protests, utterly indignant and aggrieved.

    Inside the Extreme Yin Star, tumult reigned supreme.

    Faced with such ferocity, Yun Xiao remained serene as a cidke, his voice slicing through the crowd like a cold sword.

    He spoke two sentences!

    "First, the Harmony Divine Pce never had any friends, and you were all too eager to kick me when I was down.

    "Second, if one is strong enough, ruthless enough, creatures from all corners of the universe will beg to be our friends!"

    Having said this, Yun Xiao had no interest in further conversation with these people. Suddenly, he transformed into a streak of azure light and plunged into the crowd!

    <em>SLASH! </em>Wherever he went, heads flew and blood rained like a torrential downpour!

    If you''re going to kill, do it with gusto! If you''re going to annihte, turn the world upside down!

    No matter the person¡ªbe it arrogant, disdainful, or haughty¡ªa single thrust of his sword, and all were reduced to bloody holes!

    "Scoundrel!"

    "Mad dog!"

    "Bastard!"

    "Scum!"

    ¡­

    A chorus of curses shook the heavens, now enriched with different insults upon realizing Yun Xiao was no mere celestial ve.

    However, no amount of insults or threats could stop the white robed youth with the azure sword!

    Even Feng Yao, Hai Qing, and Shen Nanyin silently joined the ughter. Right or wrong didn''t matter to them; in their hearts, following Yun Xiao was the only true path!

    Without Yun Xiao, where would the Extreme Yin Star be today? Without him, how could the new generation of the Dragon Devil n, including the five Young Dragon Lords, be nearly wiped out?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Only Long Hao and Long Kun, now eunuchs, remained alive. Numb and stunned, they hovered over the Extreme Yin Star, helplessly watching the chaos below, crying out in despair. Yet, death was elusive.

    Even their Young Dragon Consorts were madly in support of Yun Xiao, while they themselves were so spiritually purified they couldn''t even muster anger!

    With such a context, why should Hai Qing and the others bother with distinguishing right from wrong?

    All they needed to do was kill!

    Only by killing could they truly deter those covetous eyes and deeply intimidate those greedy ws!

    Any army of righteousness that didn''t base itself on the ability to ughter was but a paper tiger!

    At this moment, Yun Xiao''s massacre of 1,000 people in the Alliance Army caused more shock and controversy than his decapitating the heads of the five great talents with a single sword stroke!

    Suddenly, the Grand Assembly Arena plunged into chaos and strife. Many previously uninvolved celestial sects were now truly caught in the vortex between the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    Which side to choose had be a critical question, affecting the future of every celestial sect...

 Chapter 928: Dont Play With Fire!

    When Yun Xiao''s single sword struck down five heads, the Million Starlight Pce was already in a state of shock, as the elders, rted to the deceased, felt as though 10,000 swords had pierced their hearts.

    That sword felt as though it had sliced right through their necks, sending a chilling coldness spreading throughout.

    "No!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In the section for sects like the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star, the elders shot up from their seats with tears of blood dripping from their eyes.

    Yet, their hearts bled even more!

    The Dragon Devil n had suffered an especially heavy blow. They hade in full force for the Supreme Yin Cauldron, arrogantly throwing around their weight. Now, they had witnessed all five of their Young Dragon Lords in or crippled, and their new generationpletely wiped out¡­

    The aged faces of the Dragon Devil n elders looked like they''d been smeared withyers of thick cow dung, dark and foul. They even growled, bit their tongues, screamed ferociously, clenched their fists, and vomited blood in anger.

    All the scorn and insults they had for the Supreme Yin Cauldron were like daggers to their hearts!

    How could they bear such humiliation!The Southern Divine Dragon Realm, Grieving Spirit Valley, Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, and Thunderme God Star, along with some from the Elysian Immortal Pce and even the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea, all turned their frosty, somber res towards a single person¡ªthe Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen!

    Originally, she was merely a target of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    Now, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had drawn the ire of six Heavenly Deity Alliance sects, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, dozens of Empyrean Emperor sects and over 100 Heavenly Monarch sects... this was nearly the wrath of most of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    To be honest, she herself was baffled. How could she have anticipated Yun Xiao to be so ruthless?

    Up until now, every action Yun Xiao had taken, starting from the <em>purification</em> of Yang Yang, was beyond the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen¡¯s predictions, bordering on the unimaginable.

    If it were anyone else facing such terrifying pressure, they would have been gasping for air long ago. But the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen remained calm.

    The Three Divas hadn''t bothered stepping in, showing their clear approval of Yun Xiao''s actions. Although the fallout would be a headache, she could only continue to support Yun Xiao.

    "Without Yun Xiao, we would have definitely been knocked out of the top ten! But now, not only has he secured our spot in the top ten but also crippled the future of too many celestial sects."

    This oue meant at least a strong future for the Harmony Divine Pce!

    So, under the pressure of tens of thousands of wrathful eyes, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen sat upright with a calm face. She closed her eyes and let the curses and threats flow through her as if she heard none of it.

    She was actually thrilled deep down.

    From taking captives, tormenting the Young Dragon Lords to conquering the Young Dragon Consorts and annihting dragon minions, Yun Xiao¡¯s actions were sure to be recorded in history!

    "But really, was it necessary to confront hundreds of celestial sects just because Feng Yao was a little hurt?"

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen didn''t quite understand. She only knew that if such brutal acts were not stopped by the Three Divas, it certainly wasn''t her ce to question.

    At the very least, it was indeed exhrating!

    Was there truly anyone innocent? Of course not! Had anyone other than Yun Xiao prevailed, every one of these Heavenly Deity Alliance sects would have shown no mercy to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    "Now that they follow the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to invade the Extreme Yin Star,ter their elders will join the Southern Divine Dragon Realm in dividing up the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! The Extreme Yin Starcks resources, but our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is a grand sect of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, enough to drive these lesser sects mad..."

    At that moment, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen suddenly understood the true reason behind Yun Xiao¡¯s ruthlessness!

    "When everyone sees you as a piece of fat meat, you''d better smash the mouths of those who harbor such thoughts, make them afraid, then you might have a chance to survive!

    "If you show fear, these greedy bottom feeders will only be more frenzied!"

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen''s analysis wasn''t wrong.

    When Yun Xiao began ughtering the Alliance Army, at least 500 elders stood up, following the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, casting venomous nces at the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    "No matter what you do, tell your little pet that if he continues like this, he will incite all the righteous forces of the Heavenly Deity Ster River to unite and destroy your Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!"

    "Don''t y with fire!"

    "There''s still time to regret."

    "Young people being blinded by their emotions is understandable. But as a senior, you can''t let him run wild! If you don''t stop him, you are endorsing his actions, fueling his arrogance, and dooming the Harmony Divine Pce!"

    "The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, known as a man''s purgatory, has nurtured a mad beast; keeping a fa?ade of chastity while promoting debauchery, that¡¯sughable! This boy must be a secret delight your Three Divas keep for amusement!"

    "Laughable! I thought you were truly pure, but you¡¯re just a bunch of hypocritical nuns."

    After cursing Yun Xiao, they started mocking the Three Divas, naturally including the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen too.

    "Since even the Three Divas are breaking the rules, stop pretending to be holy! The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm needs men? We at the Thunderme God Star have plenty!"

    "I warn you, if you remain deluded, you are seeking your own destruction! All women of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm will pay with their lives for this boy''s brutality!"

    "Immediately! Right now! Make him stop while he can!"

    As Yun Xiao wreaked havoc, those who saw their sect''s prodigies in peril stood up one after another, exerting pressure on the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen with even colder expressions.

    Meanwhile, the faces of the Golden Dragon Emperor, Gong Tianjian, Empyrean Emperor Mu, Great Dream Lord, along with others from the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star, had long turned grim.

    Amidst this cacophony of curses, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen fixed her gaze on the screen. Finally, she shook her head and said, "Apologies, everyone. The Grand Assembly Arena is sealed, and I truly have no way to send a message."

    "You cannot send a message, but those Three Divas are inside! So, are you saying that this massacre of our geniuses is per your Harmony Divine Pce''s instructions?" Gong Tianjian suddenly stood up, her voice cold and harsh.

    "Why the rush, Chief Gong? Your disciple Zhao Cann isn''t dead, and your Elysian Immortal Pce geniuses have all offered their Personal Pledges earlier, suffering no great losses," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen responded coolly.

    Her words nearly made Gong Tianjian spit blood. Though not dead, Zhao Cann was left without a lower body. He was practically crippled.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen pursed her lips, "Moreover, the fundamental rule of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects is that it''s a contest for the new generation, with elders forbidden from interfering.

    "We should let the young ones perform freely! Non-interference is a fact for all celestial sects. Whatever happens is due to the disciples'' own decisions; we cannot assume guilt just because the Three Divas are present.

    "The Grand Assembly isn¡¯t solely for the Heavenly Deity Ster River but also witnessed by friends from other Ster Rivers. I believe, as the hosts, we should adhere to these basic rules... instead of resorting to the threats due to the strife of the young."

    Her words swept through like a chilling storm, causing thousands of Heavenly Monarchs around to grit their teeth and glower with even more resentment.

    "Good!"

    "Very good!"

    "Face the consequences yourself!"

    "I from the Octave Sword Sect never wanted to get involved, but you''ve forced my hand!"

    "We feel the same!"

    Suddenly, many sects took a firm stand, lining up behind the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, clearly ready to offer strong support.

    In reality, they had already been standing behind the Southern Divine Dragon Realm; they just hadn''t announced it loudly.

    Out of the over 500 Heavenly Monarch sects of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, at least 300 made their stance clear, intent on iming their share of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects.

    "This Extreme Yin Celestial Realm never reflects on why it has no friends!"

    "Is it because they''re aloof? Or don¡¯t fit the identity of the Heavenly Deity Alliance? Neither!"

    "The matter of celestial ves isn''t a big deal; which major sect doesn¡¯t have ves?"

    "To put it bluntly, the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is just despicable! Their inherent inferior nature is clear as day!"

    "These haughty women, who consider themselves so superior, should have stepped aside for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm long ago, but unfortunately, this time..."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 929: Conquer the Heavenly Deity Stellar River!

    Many spectators in the Million Starlight Pce were also in somewhat of a daze.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm had previously topped the rankings in thest Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. This newest generation was the strongest yet, but Yun Xiao hadpletely decimated them!

    Now, the concern wasn''t just about losing the top spot. They might vanish from the Grand Assembly Rankingspletely!

    "This kid''s still going? What''s his endgame here?"

    The elders in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region were ring at the screen with venomous looks, their hearts burning with rage as they watched Yun Xiao carrying out his unbridled ughter.

    <em>THUD! THUD! THUD! </em>Heads flew, blood rained down like a deluge, and spirits entered the cycle of reincarnation!

    y, loot, refine, and exorcize¡­ Yun Xiao''s ying of the enemy was methodical, leaving the dead as nothing but hollow husks.

    The battlefield in the Extreme Yin Star had be a living purgatory!

    Screams of agony, wails of despair, cries of pain, pleas for mercy, curses, and threats filled the air incessantly.Beheading Sword, Heart-Piercing Sword, Chicken-Slicing Sword, Arm-Severing Sword, Dantian-Destroying Sword, Throat-Piercing Sword¡­ Each strike was divinely precise.

    A whirlwind of azure and violet fury swept through like the gates of the underworld, enveloping each once-confident prodigy, dragging them into the abyss of hell.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s rampage was not indiscriminate ughter. His brutal methods incited extreme fear, subduing the minds of those around him.

    For example, Bai Ao had seemed to be a fanatical follower of Yun Xiao. Without even realizing it, he had joined in on the ughter, lost in the heat of the moment.

    Even if they didn''t outright participate in the ughter, many of Yun Xiao''s followers still had to help restrain the fleeing enemy, allowing him to deliver the finishing blows.

    "Your deaths here will serve as a warning that those who covet the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm will be shown no mercy! They can choose to ignore it for now, but they''ll see when the timees!"

    Yun Xiao wasn''t just killing; he was looting and securing resources for his future breakthroughs. These prodigies, whether in terms of bloodline, Seed of Creation, or wealth, matched their more established elders.

    So, this massacre was all gain and no loss for him!

    Killing five with one stroke showed his power! Butchering 1,000 prodigies demonstrated his cruelty! The former would intimidate his peers; thetter truly frightened themon folk!

    The message was clear. No one who sided with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm was safe! He would kill all of them without mercy!

    After failing to pressure the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, the elders turned their attention back to what was happening on the Extreme Yin Star. What they saw was a grim painting!

    One by one, the geniuses of the Alliance Army¡ªamidst their curses, fear, wailing, and kneeling pleas for mercy¡ªwere left only as frozen, desated corpses.

    All of them died miserably in the grip of terror! None of them thought Yun Xiao would dare to kill them. They had thrown insults,ughed, and even threatened him until his sword sent their heads flying. Only then did they realize their folly.

    But by then, it was toote.

    The Alliance Army cried and howled in terror, scattering pitifully.

    In their own sects, they were regarded as unrivaled geniuses and pirs of the future...

    Here, they were nothing but panicked, screeching wild chickens, each felled by Yun Xiao¡¯s sword¡ªsometimes singly, sometimes in groups!

    With each stroke, Yun Xiao extracted their value, leaving nothing behind.

    Many had copsed into despair, crying and soiling themselves. Some were so frightened they died on the spot, their spirits shrieking as they departed.

    Their gruesome ends were a vivid testament to the fact that they had never truly faced a ruthless foe.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In this sealed arena, devoid of the protection of their elders, their mortality was magnified manyfold. All the gloss and mor of their backgrounds faded before the uncaring de of death.

    It was just the in who were frightened! Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, Ah Jiao, the Bloodvine Young Masters, and others stood frozen with pale expressions, as if that azure de hovered over their own necks.

    None of them dared to look up, trembling in fear.

    Zu Wei, Mu Zhilu, Mu Zixiao, and the other disciples were even more tense. Many clung together, tears streaming down their faces, as whimpers escaped their lips involuntarily.

    Outside the Extreme Yin Star, Long Hao and Long Kun were initially seething with rage, believing Yun Xiao''s actions would spell doom for the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    However, the more they watched, the more unsettled they became, retreating far away to safety.

    Zhao Cann and the other disciples from the Elysian Immortal Pce felt their scalps tingle, grateful they were intercepted by Yun Xiao and not part of the force attacking the Extreme Yin Star.

    As for Shen Nanyin, Shi Feifei, and the other new recruits, they were the most frenzied in the ughter. Drenched in blood, fanatical adoration filled their eyes as they looked at that youth in white. They were fervent enough to forsake their own lives, willing to follow him anywhere.

    This was the charm of a conqueror!

    Once hearts were won over, die-hard followers were born!

    Killing wasn''t the point; it was about who the de was pointed at!

    In the Heavenly Deity Ster River, no one else but Yun Xiao could make 1,000 geniuses turn tail, fleeing in horror!

    As the end approached, the screams gradually died down.

    Only increasinglybored breathing remained!

    The Million Starlight Pce echoed this atmosphere.

    Across the entire Extreme Yin Star Barrier, aside from the howl of the raging blizzard, only utter silence reigned!

    The Alliance Army had beenpletely wiped out!

    A force of over 1,500 people, including disciples from the Dragon Devil n and three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects, had all been in without fail!

    Indeed, not one survived! This was true despair! All perished right here!

    Looking at the frozen corpses littering thendscape, their faces still contorted in terror, one could only imagine the agony.

    For the captives remaining on the Extreme Yin Star, how excruciating must their torment be?

    Bai Lu, Zu Wei, Zhao Cann, and those with them were all ashen-faced, daring only to exchange looks, too terrified to utter a word.

    Every one of them felt numb all over! They dared not even twitch! Their gazes stealthily shifted between two directions.

    To the left, the youth in white looked as if he had returned from a spring outing, a smile ying on his lips as he sorted, categorized, and collected treasures from each Bag of Holding, smiling as he tidied.

    To the righty a vast sea of blood! This was the blood from over 1,000 Alliance Army geniuses! Not a drop was wasted! All of it was collected in this blood sea.

    Unseen by none, at the deepest part of the blood sea, the seductive figure of a female devil swam like a blood-red dragon.

    Without a doubt, she was cultivating.

    "Yao Yao gets hurt, and he drains the blood of over 1,000 geniuses to help her recover¡­"

    Hai Qing and her sisters exchanged looks, a storm brewing in their hearts.

    "It¡¯s so touching!" Hai Ying sobbed.

    "Touch your heart, this isn¡¯t a love story, it¡¯s a ghost story for our foes¡­" Hai Mo covered her forehead.

    "I don¡¯t care, I ship it! It¡¯s so purely romantic! They must be truly devoted to each other, a real heaven-sent couple!" Hai Ying hummed.

    Upon hearing this, Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help but sneeze, feeling a tad embarrassed.

    After all, just half a day ago, he had <em>ambushed</em> one of their revered Divas, sending her soaring with the dragons, from which she had not yet recovered.

    And now they were shipping his pure love?

    He quickly shifted his focus and finished gathering the valuables.

    It was a great harvest! Apart from Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources, Yun Xiao needed nothing else for the time being, not even Supreme Immortal Jades, of which he had countless.

    Blue Star and Red Moon were reeling with joy.

    "It¡¯s perfect, beans to eat and milk to drink!" Red Moon said, drunk with joy.

    "You idiot, haven''t you learned by now? All the milk is for Yun Xiao!" Blue Star rolled his eyes.

    "Yun¡­ Yun Xiao." Zu Wei, having recovered a bit from her soul control, was now more awake.

    The more lucid she became, the more her heart raced!

    Her spirit had already knelt before Yun Xiao. Now, looking at the young man, she felt an indescribable emotion, a sense of being conquered, present in her as well, though not as intense as Shen Nan Yin¡¯s.

    Her voice trembling, she asked, "You''ve already defeated the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. In the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena, no one can stand against you. With you, the Extreme Yin Star could easily enter the top ten of the Grand Assembly rankings... Now that the mission isplete, could you, perhaps, set us free...?"

    Her words echoed the thoughts of the 1,500 captives, and at that moment, all eyes were anxiously fixed on Yun Xiao, their emotions varied.

    "What do you mean, missionplete? Do you even know what mission I''ve set for myself?" Yun Xiao replied curtly to Zu Wei.

    His stern demeanor immediately frightened Zu Wei into lowering her head, like a chastened maidservant, as she stammered, "Please, what is it then?"

    Yun Xiao scanned the crowd and dered bluntly, "I want the Grand Assembly Rankings of the Heavenly Deity Ster River to list only one faction, Carefree Wind Clouds!"

    "What do you mean by that..." Zu Wei gasped in shock.

    "It''s simple!" Yun Xiao''s voice intensified, "I want to nt the Child gs of the Extreme Yin Star on every Taiyi Sourcecore throughout the Heavenly Deity Ster Region! Not a single one should be missed!"

    After saying this, Yun Xiao muttered, "If the Grand Assembly Arena weren''t divided into 18 regions, I''d take all 10,000 Taiyi Sourcecores!"

    "Uh..."

    The captives, upon hearing Yun Xiao''s bold promation, fell silent.

    Had they heard such words before, they would haveughed loudly. But now, who would dare to scoff?

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm had been annihted!

    And as for the Elysian Immortal Pce, one was crippled, the other captured, and the rest subdued!

    On the Ancestral Land''s side¡­ Zu Wei wasn''t the strongest. Her brother and sister-inw were in the Fifth Baptism Realm, and could put up somewhat of a fight. But what was the point?

    Of the other three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects, all of them were already wiped out?

    How many other Heavenly Deity Alliance sects remained?

    After a careful count, it was clear that even if all the remaining ones united, they would be no match for Yun Xiao''s Carefree Windy Clouds!

    It didn''t matter that the Extreme Yin Star wasn''t on the rankings. After this battle, that would change in the blink of an eye!

    "Sigh..."

    Everyone knew that now no one could stop Yun Xiao from creating the most explosive miracle in the history of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects and leaving the most significant mark in the annals of history.

    "All of you, listen up!" Yun Xiao''s cold shout jolted everyone to attention.

    "Yes!" The 1,500 captives instinctively roared back, a hint of fervor in their voices.

    Yun Xiaomanded in a deep tone, "Come take my Extreme Yin Child g, immediately return to your respective Taiyi Sourcecores, and rece your Parent gs with mine! Afterwards, represent Carefree Windy Clouds and conquer the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River region! Within three days, I want every Taiyi Sourcecore in this region to fly our g!"

 Chapter 930: Yun Xiao is a Generous Senior!

    The banner of a single faction fluttering over all the Taiyi Sources of the Heavenly Deity Ster region? Such a feat was unprecedented in the history of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects!

    Even the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce had never possessed the strength to achieve this!

    Those present, upon hearing Yun Xiao''s deration, felt their minds buzz incessantly.

    They could hardly fathom the sensation it would stir, seeing the Carefree Wind Clouds'' g fluttering over the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River region. From the perspective of the Grand Assembly Arena, it would be nothing short of sensational¡­

    They were, frankly, breathless. For this was the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡ªnearly forsaken by the masses!

    It was a ce brimming with women!

    Were it not for Yun Xiao being a man rather than a woman, perhaps at this moment, every male cultivator in the Heavenly Deity Ster River would hang their heads in shame!

    Yet they harbored no doubt that Yun Xiao could aplish this feat.

    "What are you waiting for? Go on!" Yun Xiao waved his hand."Yes!"

    All the followers that Yun Xiao had gathered quickly scattered! It didn''t matter if it was Bai Lu, Gusu Yan, the Bloodvine Young Master, and other disciples from Empyrean Emperor Sects, or the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea disciples following Zu Wei. None of them disobeyed!

    They rushed to depart, driven not just by a zeal to distinguish themselves but also an eagerness to distance themselves from a fiend like Yun Xiao.

    Over 1,500 people left in a rush, as if fleeing for their lives.

    Of course, they knew well, with their Personal Pledges handed over, and even with the Yin Sword Embryos, they could never truly escape Yun Xiao.

    The ughter they had just witnessed would haunt them forever!

    Soon, the poption on the Extreme Yin Star dwindled sharply.

    "Yun Xiao, errr¡­ Brother Yun..." Zhao Cann stepped forward, his voice strained and his eyes filled with a lifetime of hardship, "Can you release Yun Lingchen now?"

    "Bring your Parent g over, then we''ll exchange," Yun Xiao replied.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "You..." Zhao Cann gritted his teeth.

    "Hmm?" Yun Xiao gave him a nce.

    "Fine! I''ll do it quickly, and I hope you keep your promise," Zhao Cann said.

    After speaking, he cast a lingering nce at Yun Lingchen, still unconscious in the distance, his face filled with regret, and led the talented disciples of the Elysian Immortal Pce away.

    Not far off, a disciple in green robes leaned close to Zhao Cann¡¯s ear and whispered, "It takes so much time back and forth. With the youngdy in the hands of that fiend, who knows..."

    "What can I do!" Zhao Cann sighed deeply, suddenly seeming to age years in a moment, "We can''t defeat him, we can''t outdo him. This fiend is now invincible here. Our only hope is that the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects concludes soon, so the elders can deal with him."

    ¡°By then, the youngdy might be defiled¡­¡±

    ¡°We can only hope he''s gentle!¡± Zhao Cann replied.

    ¡°Ah?¡±

    The disciple nced at Zhao Cann''s missing lower half and suddenly understood the man¡¯s extreme agony¡­

    ¡°What a shame. I hope that Pce Master Yun and your master will never let this beast go!¡±

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Soon, within the confines of the Extreme Yin Star, aside from Wan Ji''s seven daughters and Feng Yao, only Shen Nanyin, Shi Feifei, and the unconscious Yun Lingchen remained.

    ¡°Don¡¯t we still have the Parent g of the Southern Divine Dragon Star? Go fetch it!¡± Yun Xiao instructed them.

    Shen Nanyin bit her lip, her voice tinged with grievance, ¡°You didn¡¯t kill Long Hao and Long Kun; they escaped. Even severely wounded, they could still overpower us.¡±

    ¡°Why not wait until you wrap things up and make a trip yourself? Tread upon the Southern Divine Dragon Star and nt the Child g?¡± Shi Feifei asked sweetly.

    Yun Xiao was indifferent, already looking for an excuse to leave. He responded, ¡°Then keep an eye on this little white rabbit; don¡¯t let her leave the Extreme Yin Star.¡±

    ¡°Little white rabbit?¡± Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei were startled before they realized Yun Xiao was referring to Yun Lingchen. They couldn¡¯t help but find it oddly fitting, thinking to themselves how this great fiend enjoyed his games.

    They also couldn¡¯t help but marvel at him as well.

    ¡°Mmm.¡±

    The two nodded quickly.

    Meanwhile, Feng Yao¡¯s voice emanated from the sea of blood, ¡°Lil Yun, do you know where the Snow Lineage Diva is? I need to find her.¡±

    ¡°What do you want with her?¡± Yun Xiao asked, his tone dismissive.

    ¡°Obviously to obtain a Cmity Source! I need to enter the Fourth Baptism Realm,¡± Feng Yao dered.

    ¡°No need. I¡¯ve prepared it for you.¡±

    Saying this, Yun Xiao handed her an Upper Swallowing Heaven grade Cmity Source. She was close to matching him in absorbing ability.

    ¡°Give me two; I¡¯ll try to directly break through to the Fifth Baptism Realm,¡± Feng Yao stated haughtily.

    ¡°Hoh? Getting confident, are we?¡± Yun Xiao casually allowed her to handle the Mortal Dust Blood Cmity herself, not delving into the specifics.

    ¡°Nonsense,¡± Feng Yao retorted.

    Indeed, she had refined the top-tier bloodline powers from within the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    After receiving two Cmity Sources, Feng Yao bathed in the sea of blood, suddenly asking suspiciously, ¡°Why did you seem nervous when I mentioned seeing the Diva?¡±

    ¡°Did I?¡± Yun Xiao watched her calmly.

    ¡°It seemed like it.¡± Feng Yao blinked. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t be hiding something from me, would you?¡±

    ¡°Is there a need?¡± Yun Xiao chuckled.

    Feng Yao huffed twice, pocketing her suspicions, secretly nning to investigate furtherter.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, what about us?¡±

    Wan Ji''s seven daughters surrounded him, their gazes deep, already free of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm¡¯s prohibitions against men.

    "I might be heading out soon. So, I''ll need you sisters to be extra vignt. Keep a close watch on the Parent g; we can''t afford any thievery," Yun Xiao said.

    "Of course!"

    "Don''t worry."

    "And with Yao Yao here, there should be no problem."

    Yun Xiao smiled and nodded at them, then descended into the frigid tempest of the Extreme Yin Star.

    Soon after, he arrived upon a cier, its surface studded with ice crystals, reminiscent of the frost bound tundra of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, all shimmering ice and cold light.

    There, amid this frosty expanse, stood a mature beauty with blue hair, poised upon the icy mirror of snow. Her long dress, dotted with pearls, dazzled the eye.

    Innately proud and decisively fierce, her demeanor softened at her first glimpse of Yun Xiao. A smile squeezed its way onto her face as she slowly knelt, her voice timid, "It''s good to see you, senior."

    "Mhmm." Yun Xiao hummed lightly and walked over, seating himself on a massive ice rock beside her. He gazed into her icy blue eyes and asked, "What brings you to me?"

    Yu Ji conjuredyers of mist from the ice, obscuring their figures from the grand formation of the Grand Assembly Arena. Standing dutifully by Yun Xiao''s side, she spoke with a hint of nervousness, "A mere gesture from you stirred storms of blood in the Grand Assembly Arena, elevating our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm to unprecedented heights and securing our ce within the Heavenly Deity Alliance. I am¡­ immensely¡ªno, profoundly grateful, and I wished to express my thanks in person¡­"

    Yun Xiao chuckled. "Aren''t you worried that I''ve made enemies for your Extreme Yin Celestial Realm across nearly the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River, potentially courting disaster for your Harmony Divine Pce?"

    The Ice Lineage Divaughed sheepishly, "With you present, even if every sect in the Heavenly Deity Ster River were to fall, the Harmony Divine Pce would remain unscathed."

    "You have too much faith in me. The Ancestral Land, Elysian Immortal Pce, and Southern Divine Dragon Realm are all backed by Boundless Immortals. How could I possibly take on three by myself? And what reason would I have to risk my neck for you?" Yun Xiao said with a cold edge.

    At these words, Yu Ji visibly tensed. She bit her lip, her face a picture of grievance as she knelt before Yun Xiao, her voice soft and choking, "Senior, I misspoke and have displeased you. I beg you to punish me and not to let your anger harm your spirit."

    Seeing such a revered Diva so nervous and pitiful, Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang in his heart. He smiled gently and said, "Enough, don''t cry. I was only teasing you."

    At these words, Yu Ji broke into a relieved smile, biting her lower lip and looking up at Yun Xiao with moist eyes.

    "The cmity sparked by the wrath of many was my doing, and I shall take responsibility," Yun Xiao paused briefly, "However, I will need your cooperation moving forward."

    Yu Ji promptly responded, "Rest assured, just give us themand, and we three will brave any fire and water without hesitation."

    "Are you certain?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Of course," Yu Ji nodded.

    "Thene here first, rub my legs, knead my shoulders. All this fighting has worn me out," Yun Xiao said.

    Yu Ji''s delicate body trembled slightly; then, with a timid nod¡ªunustomed as she was to close contact with men¡ªshe stepped forward like a little maid, tending to Yun Xiao.

    "Senior... is the pressure alright?"

    "Softer."

    "Yes, yes..."

    "Move up and knead here."

    "Yes."

    Yun Xiao slightly bowed his head, watching the blue-haired beauty bustling about, her pitiable eyes fixed on him.

    "You''ve met Si Ji, haven''t you?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    Yu Ji bit her red lip and nodded silently, "Yes."

    "She¡¯s close to bing a Boundless Immortal," Yun Xiao said.

    "Yes... I truly envy her, achieving her dreams. I''m thankful to you for giving her such an opportunity," Yu Ji spoke earnestly.

    Clearly, this was whatplicated her feelings.

    Yun Xiao''s hand then rested on her head, gently brushing her long hair. "Actually, you can do it too..."

    "Senior!" Yu Ji was immensely nervous, yet she dared not move, her eyes moist, her voice trembling, "I¡ªI can¡¯t, I¡¯m not like her, I must uphold..."

    Watching her frightened demeanor was somewhat amusing.

    "Haha." Yun Xiao chuckled, patting her cheek. "Don¡¯t misunderstand, I merely mean that bing a Boundless Immortal is even simpler for you than for her, you just need to rid yourself of the Ice Specter Poison."

    "Oh, yes, yes..." Yu Ji gave a naive smile, finally relieved.

    "But what do you think of me?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked again.

    "Senior, you are the most perfect man in the world. Even a proud person like Si Ji has fallen for you; no one in this world canpare to you," Yu Ji said anxiously.

    "Well said." Yun Xiao grasped her hand, causing Yu Ji to jump in fright. She struggled, then slowly closed her eyes, resigning herself to his will.

    Then she discovered the Ice Specter Poison in her was dissipating¡­<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 931: Ice-Blue Serpent Scale Egg!

    "Senior..." Yu Ji muttered softly.

    For someone suffering from a terminal illness, gued by the Ice Specter Poison every day, the feeling of this poison evaporating was unimaginablyforting.

    It was more than justfortable.

    It was a sensation of lightness, like floating over the clouds. This made Yu Ji subconsciously cling to Yun Xiao''s neck, her body spasming, eyes slightly squinting, eyshes trembling. Her entire body, under the purification of the Prison Warden Sigil, released a grayish-ck ice mist!

    Such a sound carried a sense of shame, naturally making Yu Ji blush, her lips parting slightly, unable to utter a word.

    Only her eyes, fixed on Yun Xiao, were misty and full of admiration.

    She was over 1,000 years old, and even though she had not borne children, in her self-perception, she had long regarded herself as of grandmotherly, at least motherly, age.

    However, the senior before her, in Yu Ji''s eyes, was definitely older, a guide in her life, making her, a woman frozen for a millennium, feel as if she had returned to her girlhood.

    To Yun Xiao, she was like an older brother, even an uncle... a different image from what Wan Ji and Si Ji saw in him.In Wan Ji''s view, he was a young man with extraordinary talent, and in Si Ji''s eyes, he had even been a special celestial ve before...

    Because of this distinction, the revered Ice Lineage Diva, appearing so girlish in front of Yun Xiao, showed a mixture of nervousness, shyness, resistance, and expectation.

    The entire process of purifying the Ice Specter Poison was like a dream for her, as if a perfect, brother-like lover was holding her hand, gently pulling her from a frozen cold pool, making her feel warm.

    This warmth was enough to melt her, turning the frost that had sealed her heart for 1,000 years into warm water, cascading uncontrobly.

    "Senior..."

    Her voice was tender, her ice-blue eyes even more mesmerizing amid the evaporating mist.

    "Just call me by name," Yun Xiao said.

    "Yes, Yun Xiao," the Ice Lineage Diva replied, her body tingling with the utterance.

    In her heart, Yu Ji''smitment to the strict rules bestowed by the Harmony and Divine Founders was already crumbling. Even the coldest dams, when faced with the scorching sun, couldn''t help but melt.

    "Yu Ji, this time I canpletely burn away your Ice Specter Poison. You might consider striving to be a Boundless Immortal," Yun Xiao whispered seductively in her ear.

    Upon hearing this, Yu Ji trembled, her eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at Yun Xiao. Her mind buzzed, her lips parting slightly, stuttering without knowing what to say.

    "Si Ji can do it, and so can you." Yun Xiao seemed to forget that Yu Ji was a revered deity over 1,000 years old, enough to be his ancestor. Yet, he was treating her like a young girl.

    "Yun Xiao..." Yu Ji looked at him, her eyes filled with fervent radiance.

    Boundless Immortal! What a seemingly unattainable dream! Could it really...e true? Was she really not dreaming¡­?

    Her heart pounded, her whole being as tender as water, her adoring eyes fixed on Yun Xiao, unwilling to blink even once.

    "But¡ª"

    At this, Yu Ji tensed up. She even subconsciously clung tighter to his neck, fearing he might change his mind... almost ready to blurt out "I am willing!"

    "Please speak," Yu Ji said with a trembling voice.

    "If you be a Boundless Immortal, will you devote yourself entirely to assisting me?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Yu Ji quickly nodded like a pecking chicken, saying, "If you grant me such a fortune, I am ready to go through fire and water for you, without hesitation!"

    Seeing her straightforward and fervent response, Yun Xiao nodded with satisfaction, "Okay, I believe you."

    "Why do you ask this? Is it because..."

    Before Yu Ji could finish, Yun Xiao said, "It''s nothing serious, just that Si Ji has some misunderstandings about me. I cherish this body double, and if she acts up after seeding, help me keep her in check."

    "Misunderstanding? With how well you treat her, how could she misunderstand you!" Yu Ji pouted slightly.

    In her view, Yun Xiao was best to Si Ji, and she was extremely envious; how could Si Ji not see the fortune she was in?

    "It''s not her fault; it''s just a misunderstanding, which will clear up eventually. When I''m not avable, just persuade her as needed," Yun Xiao said softly.

    "Mhm!" Yu Ji nodded earnestly, asserting, "Rest assured, with me around, no one can harm you, not even Si Ji!"

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao achieved his goal.

    It was quite a feat to have a thousand-year-old granny admire him so, surely a sight that left both Blue Star and Red Moon in awe.

    Regarding this, Red Moonmented, "Everything about him is fine, except his taste. Among the Three Divas, that Sea Lineage mommy obviously has the highest talents. Yet, he fancies the younger-looking ones!"

    Yun Xiao had long learned to ignore suchments. He then pushed the Prison Warden Sigil to its limit, applying it very carefully, bit by bit, on Yu Ji''s body.

    Her Ice Specter Poison had prated deep into her marrow, necessitating its application everywhere to draw out the poisonpletely.

    The thought of thoroughly eradicating it brought some embarrassment and intimacy, posing a breathtaking challenge for the Ice Lineage Diva.

    This was especially true for thest three spots in her body!

    She was almost beside herself with awkwardness.

    Fortunately, Yun Xiao, clearly an experienced hand, exudedpassion and righteousness, allowing the Ice Lineage Diva to feel his sanctity. After undergoing a dream-like process, the icy poison in her body was finally cleansed.

    Throughout this, her embarrassment and shyness were quite a scene to behold¡ªa majestic Diva disying such girlish demeanor was indeed rare.

    To witness this was also a pleasure.

    By the end, Yu Ji''s heart had surely undergone tremendous changes. Once the icy toxin waspletely removed and her millennia-long troubles dissipated, her eyes were filled with tears, and the way she looked at Yun Xiao spoke volumes.

    "Wait for me, I won''t let you down..."

    After a soft cry, her lower body transformed into a serpentine tail, also known as the Divine Spring Tail. Wrapping herself up, a thick mist arose from her form, slowly turning into a huge ice-blue egg adorned with snake scales, resembling a blue gemstone...

    Indeed, it was a beautiful sight!

    Yun Xiao, looking at his second creation, was extremely satisfied.

    "Seems like I''m still inexperienced. That transformation into a serpentine tail actually looks pretty good!" Red Moon eximed in surprise.

    "Indeed, you''re far too naivepared to our bro! He''s out there snake charming, and you''re only thinking with your stomach!" Blue Star mocked.

    "Awesome!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    While the Ice Lineage Diva was transforming into a cocoon, Yun Xiao sat down beside her and gulped down Heavenly Dao Sariras and Origin Orbs.

    After ascending to the Third Baptism Realm, the path ahead seemed clear and t; it was only a matter of time and resources for him to progress from the Early stage to the Establishment stage.

    About half a dayter.

    "Third Baptism Realm, Establishment stage!"

    Having looted from over 1,000 Alliance Army geniuses, not only had Feng Yao undergone a transformation, but Yun Xiao also made rapid progress.

    In just half a day, hepleted what would take others decades of cultivation.

    "I just forgot to ask for a Burying Heaven grade Cmity Source before she turned into a cocoon. Damn!!"

    Yun Xiao stood up and nced at the ice-blue egg with snake scales, feeling a bit regretful.

    Now that two Divas had transformed into eggs, only Wan Ji of the Sea Lineage was left...

    "The two younger sisters are about to be Boundless Immortals; her feelings must be changing too, right?"

    However, being the oldest, Wan Ji was somewhat set in her ways. Her path to bing a Boundless Immortal was undoubtedly the most challenging, and Yun Xiao had no clear n for her yet.@@novelbin@@

    "Establishment Third Baptism Realm! Once the Grand Assembly Arena battle is over, I''ll go to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto to find Senior Sister Zhao... I wonder what level those geniuses from the other 17 Ster Rivers are at? They probably won''t be much higher than those from the Heavenly Deity Ster River!"

    Currently, the strongest genius Yun Xiao had encountered was Xiao Ming from the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar.

    However, it was rumored that Xiao Ming was not the strongest recognized talent in the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    The strongest was someone else!

    And this person would inevitably be Yun Xiao''s rival in his quest to dominate the Grand Assembly Arena.

    Yun Xiao was just consolidating his cultivation when a flying talisman arrived.

    That flying talisman came from Shen Nanyin!

 Chapter 932: Wedding Promise!

    The flying talisman was written in delicate script.

    ¡¸<em>There''s a small issue with dominating the Heavenly Deity Ster River region. Your presence is needed. We''re gathered around the Parent g right now.</em>¡¹

    "Quite proactive," Yun Xiao remarked with a sigh, before he soared into the skies with his Sovereign Sword, leaving the icy tundra behind.

    No sooner had Yun Xiao left the area than he entered a roaring blizzard, where he immediately noticed the dramatic increase in power of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier. What was once a fragile formation had now transformed into a fortress of steel, still growing stronger.

    Looking up, Yun Xiao saw <em>Carefree Windy Clouds</em> had risen to the first rank on the Grand Assembly Rankings. Their score had reached over 200 points, overwhelmingly crushing allpetition. As he watched, the number continued to grow visibly, reflecting the efficiency of his followers.

    With 555 sects in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region, achieving a score of 555 would indeed be unprecedented!

    Yun Xiao gracefully flew back to the Star Nexus. Looking into the distance, Feng Yao was still deep in her cultivation, likely attempting to break through to the Fourth Baptism Realm.

    Hai Qing and the others were vigntly guarding her. Meanwhile, the tasks of conquest were currently managed by Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei, who indeed had a knack for this, plus, with no way out, they were fullymitted. Yun Xiao trusted thempletely.

    "Yun Xiao!" They had devised a new way to address him, bending their knees slightly and squatting to show respect as they showcased their curves.

    "What''s the trouble?" Yun Xiao asked, deliberately ignoring the plunging necklines.

    "It''s like this..." Shi Feifei began in a peevish tone, "The other Taiyi Sourcecores are fine. But we''re encountering problems with the Ancestral Star guarded by Zu Wei''s brother and sister-inw, Zu Xi and Mu Xihe.

    "Zu Xi is in the Late stage of the Fifth Baptism Realm. He was once acknowledged as the strongest in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region. It seems he''s refusing to listen to Zu Wei. He has rallied the Northmaple Sword Sect, Myriad Sigil Mystic Sea, and Canaan Cathedral¡ªall Heavenly Deity Alliance sects¡ªto face you in a decisive battle."

    "Zu Xi and Mu Xihe..." Yun Xiao mused.

    The Northmaple Sword Sect, Myriad Sigil Mystic Sea, and Canaan Cathedral were thest remaining sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance. All the others had already appeared before Yun Xiao.

    Before the rise of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, sects like the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Thunderme God Star, and Grieving Spirit Valley were more inclined to align with the Elysian Immortal Pce.

    Meanwhile, the Northmaple Sword Sect, Myriad Sigil Mystic Sea, and Canaan Cathedral, along with the Nine Yin Soul Sea, were more orthodox sects that tended to support the Ancestral Land.

    With the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Elysian Immortal Pce, Thunderme God Star, and Grieving Spirit Valley all defeated by Yun Xiao, it was surprising that the Ancestral Land''s faction still had the courage to resist.

    "The disciples of those three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects have already voluntarily given up on their own Taiyi Sourcecores, and are bunkering down on the Ancestral Star. Their intent to resist is very clear," Shen Nanyin said with a snort.

    Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei''s allegiances might have shifted. But their nature hadn''t changed. In the past, they looked down on others while relying on the men of the Dragon Devil n. Now, relying on Yun Xiao, their disdain for others remained unabated.

    However, Yun Xiao wasn''t too bothered. Clearly, when looking down on others, what was important wasn''t the <em>looking down</em> part. It was that the target of this disdain was the enemy and not him!

    "Alright, got it. I''ll make a trip there," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Si Ji had woken up some time ago. Although Yu Ji had been cultivated, Si Ji was undoubtedly quicker. Yun Xiao was just looking for an excuse to get away for a while.

    "Are you going alone again? Just by yourself?" Shen Nanyin asked sweetly.

    Her now childlike demeanor contrasted sharply with her initial mockery of Yun Xiao''sck of courage; as hard as she was then, she was equally soft now.

    "What else? Everyone is busy! I¡¯m enough by myself," Yun Xiao responded.

    "We''re not busy! We''lle with you! Even if we can''t help in a fight, we can assist you, take care of you, and add to your presence," Shi Feifei hurriedly said, looking pitifully at Yun Xiao, her face begging.

    Indeed, having two towering beauties as bodyguards, each over nine feet tall, was like a ten-year-old child stepping out with two mothers. It would quite the <emmanding</em> sight.

    "If we stay here, we''re also worried about those two eunuchs, Long Hao and Long Kun,unching a sneak attack," Shen Nanyin said, biting her lip.

    "What a bother!" Yun Xiao waved his hand dismissively. "Alright, follow along then."

    He had a purpose in bringing them. When the opponents saw the two Young Dragon Consorts utterly devoted to him... everything would be understood without words.

    Those who should be afraid would be afraid.

    Just as Yun Xiao was about to set off, Shen Nanyin added, "Aren¡¯t you forgetting someone?"

    "Who?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei simultaneously hinted mischievously, "The little white rabbit."

    Without their reminder, Yun Xiao would have indeed forgotten her.

    Surprised to see her not bound and yet not fleeing, Yun Xiaomented, "She¡¯s not restrained, and still she hasn¡¯t run away?"

    Shen Nanyin bit her lip and said, "You don¡¯t understand women. You''ve tainted her honor, and without a proper resolution, how could she possibly leave?"

    "Don¡¯t talk nonsense, I haven¡¯t done anything," Yun Xiao retorted.

    "The meat''s already in the wolf¡¯s mouth; it''s only a matter of time before it gets devoured," Shi Feifei added with a suggestive smile.

    "Nonsense."

    Leaving them standing, Yun Xiao approached the figure in the pink dress sitting alone on the cliff. Soon, he was behind the young girl, who was gazing nkly ahead, her face streaked with tears, her eyes swollen from crying.

    Aware of his presence, she didn''t look at him but choked out, "When do you n to have our wedding?"

    "Ah?" Yun Xiao was taken aback.

    Hearing his response, Yun Lingchen looked up at him with a face full of grievance and tearfully said, "I know you are fickle-hearted, admired by many women. But Ie from a prominent family of the Elysian Immortal Pce. I don''t care how many others you¡¯re entangled with, I just want a respectable wedding to give my parents and my n an exnation! Otherwise..."

    "Otherwise what?" Yun Xiao asked, feeling a headacheing on.@@novelbin@@

    Determination in her eyes, she bit her lip and said earnestly, "Otherwise, I''ll die here on the Extreme Yin Star."

    Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter, then said, "Alright, stop it. Let me be honest with you, I haven¡¯t touched you. You''re still pure as a lotus flower. If you don''t believe me, go home and have your mother check. Moreover, everyone in the Million Starlight Pce can testify for me."

    Hearing this, Yun Lingchen looked at him in utter despair and said mournfully, "You really are such a heartless person! How can you treat a girl like this, aren¡¯t you afraid of divine retribution?"

    Yun Xiao was silent, gritting his teeth for a while before reluctantly saying, "Alright then, what do you want me to say to make you believe I haven¡¯t touched you?"

    "Stop talking, I won¡¯t believe anything you say! I know what kind of despicable person you are, and if there¡¯s evil to be done, how could you possibly abstain?" Yun Lingchen said softly, continuously shaking her head, her fists clenched, her face a picture of heartbreak and confusion.

    "Alright then! I promise you!" Yun Xiao dered.

    "Promise what?" she asked.

    "The wedding, of course," Yun Xiao leaned in, pinched her cheek, and shaped her mouth into a round pout, then continued, "With so many people from the Million Starlight Pce as witnesses, I promise you, as long as you don¡¯t back out, after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, I''ll go to the Elysian Immortal Pce to formally ask for your hand in marriage. Otherwise, I''m not a man. Is that eptable?"

    "Really?" Yun Lingchen''s eyes, clouded with gloom and struggle, slowly began to clear.

    He had sworn as a man; it must be true!

    "A man''s word is his bond," Yun Xiao dered.

    Anyway, since he hadn''t done what was used, once she went out and learned the truth from the onlookers, she would surely change her mind.

    "Alright, at least you have a conscience," Yun Lingchen, shifting from tears toughter, looked quite charming.

    "Okay, you should go now! Return to your Taiyi Sourcecore. Zhao Cann and the others are worried about your safety. I promised him that once he handed over the Parent g, I would let you go," Yun Xiao said.

    Yun Lingchen no longer insisted. She needed to quickly get out and reassure everyone, so she stood up, patted the dust off herself, and kept her head down, avoiding Yun Xiao¡¯s gaze.

    "Hold on." Suddenly, Yun Xiao patted her shoulder, saying, "Since we are destined to be husband and wife, do me a favor."

    "What is it?" Yun Lingchen, now somewhat rxed, looked up with wide, round eyes.

    "Tell your father not to oppose me. Keep a low profile. If Gong Tianjian wants to die, let her. The Elysian Immortal Pce can preserve itself by acting wisely," Yun Xiao instructed.

    "You... you¡¯re too arrogant. I may want a wedding, but I can''t guarantee my father won¡¯t tear you to pieces!" Yun Lingchen bit her lip.

    "No worries, just ry the message; that¡¯s all you need to do. Your father is smarter than you. He knows what to do," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Hmph!" Yun Lingchen no longer wanted to engage with him.

    He was too arrogant! It was one thing for him to dominate among the younger generation, but to dare threaten elders and superiors?

    "Just a reminder, the strongest person in my family isn¡¯t my father; it¡¯s my grandfather! He¡¯s a Boundless Immortal! Him being furious is actually an understatement. I wanted a wedding partly to give you a chance to live, you know?" Yun Lingchen said.

    "You¡¯re quite kind-hearted," Yun Xiao chuckled, then added, "You know, I quite like your Elysian Immortal Pce."

    "Why is that?" she asked.

    "Because of the sect¡¯s name! Elysian, <em>Yun Xiao¡­ </em>it sounds like it belongs to me... Tell them to be careful. The little princess¡¯s consort is about to rise to power," Yun Xiao said whimsically.

    "You, you... are hopeless!"

    Thinking about her future, married to such an arrogantly presumptuous man because of a supposed loss of chastity, she couldn''t help butment her fate.

    With a heavy heart and a troubled look, she wobbled away, leaving the Extreme Yin Star.

    "I''ve finally sent her off!" Yun Xiao breathed a sigh of relief, called over Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei, the two stunning beauties from a distance, and dered, "Let''s set off! Last stop, the Ancestral Star!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 933: I Alone Am Enough!

    The time remaining for the Grand Assembly Arena battle wasn''t much.

    To achieve the feat of unifying the Heavenly Deity Ster River region, one must act swiftly!

    As the captives from the Extreme Yin Star swept across the starry expanse, the other factions in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region watched from the sidelines, observing the final oue.

    For those who refused to submit to the Harmony Divine Pce, the Ancestral Star became theirst beacon of hope!

    As long as the Ancestral Star remained standing, they would bunker down and resist!

    So, it transformed into the toughest bastion in the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River, heavily guarded by the geniuses from the Ancestral Land, Northmaple Sword Sect, Myriad Sigil Mystic Sea, and Canaan Cathedral.

    However, if even this coalition were to fall, there would be nothing stopping Yun Xiao''s force from sweeping through the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena!

    So, capturing the Ancestral Land was urgent for Yun Xiao.

    Earlier, Zu Wei had already advised her brother and sister-inw, but to no avail.Even knowing all of Yun Xiao¡¯s aplishments, and that he was not a celestial ve, it couldn''t change the pride and determination of the disciples of the Ancestral Land!

    The leading sect in heritage would not surrender without a fight.

    Yun Xiao was well aware of the spirit behind this conflict. He sped up, flying through the starry expanse with his Sovereign Sword, a streak of azure sword light shing past one Taiyi Sourcecore after another!

    Behind him, two immense streaks of golden light struggled to keep up with him.

    They were the two Young Dragon Consorts, fearful of being left behind by Yun Xiao!

    When Yun Xiao took them away from the Extreme Yin star, Long Hao and Long Kun, hiding in the shadows, noticed.

    The sight of their once obedient wives now kneeling and fawning over Yun Xiao, faces filled with ttery and adoration, pierced the hearts of these Young Dragon Lords once again.

    They didn''t know what the point of hiding here was.

    Thinking about how many people in the Million Starlight Pce wereughing at them, they felt a chill all over, wanting to find a hole to crawl into and never see anyone again.

    This was the torment Yun Xiao had inflicted on them.

    And it was just the beginning!

    As long as Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei remained alive, their shame would never disappear.

    This was a disgrace for the entire Dragon Devil n!

    Originally, Long Hao and Long Kun nned to wait for Yun Xiao to leave and then secretly attack the Extreme Yin Star. But already severely weakened, they were utterly dismayed by the terrifying power of the Extreme Yin Star Barrier.

    "Yun Xiao! Supreme Yin Cauldron! Just you wait¡­! Our Eight Dragon Emperors and the Dragon Ancestor will surely repay our humiliation a thousandfold, no, ten thousandfold! The Extreme Yin Celestial Realm will surely be wiped from existence¡­!"

    The once towering and burly Young Dragon Lords now could only hide in corners, cursing venomously over and over again.

    Indeed, the thoughts of the entire Dragon Devil n were not much different from theirs.

    All they could do was wait!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?@@novelbin@@

    "There''s the Ancestral Star!" Shen Nanyin seemed to turn back into a young girl as she caught up with Yun Xiao. She supported herself on her knees as she leaned forward slightly in front of him.

    Yun Xiao looked ahead and saw a Taiyi Sourcecore colored in ck and white ahead, its style simr to Zu Wei''s, with two types of energy swirling together, faintly resembling a spherical Taiji, presenting a bnced and solemn atmosphere.

    "The Ancestral Star is currently ranked second in Grand Assembly Rankings, right? It has just over 50 points now; it used to be almost 100, but we''ve quickly captured a lot of their territory with our blitz!"

    Shi Feifei crossed her arms and looked disdainfully at the ck and white star, her red lips slightly curled, exuding a sense of arrogance.

    Yun Xiao looked deeper into that ck and white star, and saw about 300 figures swirling within the atmosphere. Judging from their attire, nearly 100 belonged to the Ancestral Land, with the rest affiliated with the other three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects.

    No other Empyrean Emperor sects or Heavenly Monarch sects were summoned.

    Even though there weren''t many of them, those gathered here were all at least Samsara Disciples in the Fourth Baptism Realm!

    Only the strongest Heavenly Deity Alliance sect disciples were qualified to be here!

    These individuals, each dressed in splendid attire, with robust auras and superior bloodlines, had a profound foundation¡ªeach had the potential of a Heavenly Monarch at least, and many were definitely on their way to the Eighth Baptism Realm!

    Including the Ancestral Land, the rising generation from four Heavenly Deity Alliance sects were almost all present.

    Additionally, there were disciples from the Nine Yin Soul Sea. Even Zu Wei, Mu Zixiao, and Mu Zhilu had returned!

    However, in contrast to the fervor of others, the expressions of these three were marked by worry.

    "He''s here!"

    When Yun Xiao made an unhidden appearance above the Ancestral Star, it caused a stir among the 300 unparalleled geniuses.

    "Everyone on alert!"

    "Prepare for battle!"

    "Protect the Parent g!"

    Voices urgent and solemn rang out around, instantly tightening the atmosphere with a sense of grim determination.

    All this demonstrated that these supremely confident prodigies were not intimidated by rumors; their will to fight was strong.

    As they prepared, Yun Xiao had already appeared beneath the ck and white currents, like a deity descending upon the sea, looking upon these great talents, the true dragons and phoenixes of their generation!

    Behind him, the two Young Dragon Consorts nked him on either side. One was dignified and noble, the other enchanting and seductive. Both gazed at him with looks of worship and reverence, only adding to Yun Xiao''s imposing aura.

    "Those two Young Dragon Consorts, just as the rumors said, have been thoroughly conquered!"

    "The Dragon Devil n regards their women as taboo to outsiders. This is the first time their Young Dragon Consorts have been subdued like this. They''ve truly lost face across the entire Samsara Gxy. I wonder how furious their elders are right now watching this from the Million Starlight Pce?"

    "It''s said that the women of the Dragon Devil n are the proudest. They look down on any man outside the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, treating them as unworthy little boys. Yet, this celestial ve has somehow brainwashed them into following him like maids, ready to attend to him at a moment''s notice?"

    "A celestial ve? Haven¡¯t you heard? He''s packing <em>heat</em> even fiercer than those of the Young Dragon Lords. He''s truly a man with three legs!"

    "No wonder he''s a man born in the male hell of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Without sufficient strength, how could he possibly subdue those female witches? It takes such talent to avoid being cleansed..."

    As the rumors were spread and embellished through countless flying talismans, they evolved into ever more bizarre versions.

    Initially skeptical, the gathered geniuses could now see firsthand how the two Young Dragon Consorts seemed desperate to be by Yun Xiao''s side, validating the rumors about them.

    For a moment, the 300 disciples exchanged nces, their previously intense readiness for battle tinged with an air of peculiarity.

    Regardless of gender, it seemed as if they all experienced Yun Xiao''s overpowering presence for the first time, making it difficult for them to lift their heads in pride.

    "Brother, sister-inw, it''s not that exaggerated; he''s just particrly ruthless in killing!" Zu Wei, somewhat frightened, said to the two beside her.

    One of the young men beside her, bearing a resemnce to Zu Wei and simrly dressed in ck and white, was a descendant of the Ancestral Land, proficient in the sword, sigil, and martial arts!

    This Zu Xi, owing to his martial prowess, had an imposing aura, capable ofmanding respect. His foundation was even higher than Zhao Cann''s, and he certainly appeared more genuinepared to the five Young Dragon Lords.

    Next to him was a tall beauty in a blue dress, who epitomized the traditional celestial path. She was serene yet aloof, with a detached gaze and an ethereal demeanor. She was clearly skilled in mental cultivation.

    She was Zu Wei''s sister-inw, Zu Xi¡¯s partner¡ªMu Xihe!

    Given her surname, she was evidently rted to Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu, presumablying from the same n.

    "Sister Xihe, you have to avenge us!" Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu implored, almost choking with tears.

    They didn''t return to persuade Zu Xi and Mu Xihe to surrender. Instead, they wanted the two to help them seek revenge.

    Of course, Mu Xihe felt her heart ache for what happened to the two of them, which also upset Zu Xi.

    Seeing the plight of the Mu brothers, the 300 geniuses had naturally sour expressions.

    "Yun Xiao! Where is your grand army?" a young man in an orange sword robe, with a high nose bridge and sharp eyes, called out from the crowd.

    "I alone am enough," Yun Xiao dered, looking down upon them, his voice calm.

    "Too arrogant!"

    "This kid is something else!"

    "He¡¯s treating us like dust..."

    Keep in mind, all of these 300 were revered by countless millions.

    Being looked down like this was a first for them!

 Chapter 934: One-Sided Domination!

    "You''re just as arrogant as the rumors say!" the young man in the orange sword robe eximed. "Of course, there''s nothing wrong with being arrogant, as long as you have the chops to back it up! I am Qin Feng of the Northmaple Sword Sect, and I look forward to seeing your skills!"

    This individual was a prodigious talent from the Northmaple Sword Sect, standing on par with the likes of Xiao Ming and Blood Weaver.

    "I am Li Xuan from the Myriad Sigil Mystic Sea!"

    "From the Canaan Cathedral, I am Wang Chen!"

    Alongside Qin Feng, two other towering talents sized up Yun Xiao, introducing themselves as well.

    From their gazes, it was clear they bore no ill will towards Yun Xiao; instead, there was a hint of admiration for a strong opponent, especially since they held no particr fondness for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm either.

    So far, none of them had any personal grievances with Yun Xiao.

    The only ones who harbored any animosity towards Yun Xiao were Zu Xi and Mu Xihe, who were the true core of their group, ring coldly at him.@@novelbin@@

    When Yun Xiao''s gaze met theirs, the atmosphere instantly charged with intensity."I don''t like wasting time. You can alle at me at once!" Yun Xiao suddenly dered.

    "Who, all at once?" Zu Wei asked, biting her lip.

    "All of you," Yun Xiao replied.

    At his words, a deathly silence fell... but the fire in the eyes of these prodigies zed fiercely!

    They too were the pinnacle of talents, each with a pride of their own.

    How could they tolerate being underestimated?

    Despite their discontent, they were earnest, and the 300 of them took to the air at once, bearing down on Yun Xiao with an overwhelming aura.

    "Yun Xiao..."

    Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei immediately felt nervous, instinctively clutching Yun Xiao''s arms on either side.

    This was not so much a cling as it was a trap, dragging Yun Xiao''s arms into a deep abyss from which it was hard to escape without some effort.

    "Step back," Yun Xiao red at them.

    These two women were a headache, always trying to seduce him! They were clever, knowing that with their current rtionship, their survival wasn''t guaranteed. But if that one step were to happen, there would definitely be hope.

    "Mhmm!"

    The two then let go, stepping back slowly, casting disdainful looks at the 300 peerless talents.

    Zu Xi, Mu Xihe, Li Xuan, Qin Feng, and Wang Chen, among the 300, each wielded their Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial weapons, standing at the forefront, locking onto Yun Xiao!

    These four Heavenly Deity Alliance sect disciples were all of pure human lineage, not a demon or devil among them.

    In cooperation, they indeed held a slight advantage!

    Now, leveraging the power of the Ancestral Star Barrier, their killer moves blended into a swirling torrent of ck and white, like crocodiles lurking at the bottom of ake, ready to strike.

    Among them, the killing moves from the Fifth Baptism Realm powerhouses were the true core, around whom everyone else rallied, aiding in the suppression of Yun Xiao!

    Such momentum temporarily swept up the entire Ancestral Star,bining the profound heritage of these righteous sects with the mighty Taiyi Sourcecore, shaking the entire star with destructive power that was staggering to behold.

    Thunderous booms resounded as the killer moves converged into currents, transforming into a pair of colossal ck and white whales erupting from the ocean depths. Their gaping maws wide open, they crashed towards Yun Xiao like two immense whirlpools of swirling darkness and light.

    Even with their unshakeable faith in Yun Xiao, Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei were taken aback by such divine might, momentarily losing themselves in awe.

    Being pragmatists, they instinctively retreated, their actions betraying a wavering belief in Yun Xiao''s ability to withstand the onught from these 300 unparalleled talents.

    Not even the five Young Dragon Lords could withstand such an assault; they would be torn asunder in an instant!

    So, no me could be ced on them; the overwhelming force wielded by Zu Xi, Mu Xihe, and their cohorts was simply too formidable.

    <em>Swallowing Whales of the Heavens!</em>

    Yun Xiao remained silent, wielding his three-foot Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    After ying over 1,000, nobody noticed until now that Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul had amassed over 3,000 Sword Prisons¡ªa number not even many Heavenly Monarchs possessed.

    Against the raging ck and white storm, Yun Xiao seemed as insignificant as a white mosquito.

    Yet, with a single thrust of his sword, a horrifying scene unfolded!

    That mosquito-like Heaven Burial Sword Soul, facing the engulfing ck and white whales, pressed down and shattered them as easily as tofu!

    The force of Yun Xiao''s sword light was unstoppable; under the sh of azure light, the ck and white currents exploded repeatedly, shattering and disintegrating.

    The Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial weapons that had formed the ck and white whales wailed in their demise, crashing down like broken kites, trembling and fracturing in a pitiable state.

    "Hmm, I''d give it a so-so!"

    With these two words from Yun Xiao, his sword pressed down harder, causing aplete explosion of the ck and white force.

    "Ah!"

    "It can¡¯t be! Impossible!"

    Below, the 300 geniuses, just as they were about to rally, felt as if heaven itself was suppressing them. Before they could fully manifest their might, their mouths were brutally smashed, the immense pressure of the sword crashing into their chests like a sledgehammer.

    <em>PUFF! PUFF! </em>All 300 geniuses spat blood and were sent reeling back.

    Including Zu Xi, Mu Xihe, Li Xuan, Qin Feng, and Wang Chen, who bore the brunt of Yun Xiao¡¯s sword pressure, they spat fresh blood, their faces turning a ghastly shade of purple, their minds reeling, and their spines chilling.

    <em>BOOM! </em>They were all suppressed to the ground of the Ancestral Star, crashing down inplete disarray, utterly humiliated.

    More shocking than their physical defeat was the impact on their inner selves. At this moment, their worldviews were undeniably shattered; even if they managed to stand, they appeared dazed, their fighting spirit significantly dampened.

    Over 300 people, rising up in a miserable atmosphere, resembled nothing more than walking corpses, exchanging nces of disbelief.

    "Zu Xi¡­" Mu Xihe trembled as she stood, staring nkly at the once most proud talent of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    Zu Xi stood as still as wood, dumbfoundedly gazing at the sky at the figure in white, who seemed like a god. His voice shook with a life-questioning choke, "Is the gap... really so vast?"

    Mu Xihe also watched the white figure, understanding now why Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei would demean themselves to follow someone from another n. It wasn''t out of humiliation.

    It was because this young man in white was too, too, extraordinarily transcendent.

    She had never seen someone like Zu Xi, a favored son of heaven, so utterly defeated. And now, witnessing this, she let go of any reservations.

    She grasped Zu Xi''s hand, saying, "Don¡¯t doubt yourself because of this. He is an exception. You are still among the elite of the Heavenly Deity Ster River."

    "Understood!" After Zu Xi replied, he turned to his sister Zu Wei, "Send him the Parent g. Someone of such transcendent talent deserves to unite the Heavenly Deity Ster River region. I have no regrets in my defeat and wish him sess in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, to bring glory to our Heavenly Deity Ster River."

    "Brother, you can go and tell him yourself. He is not our Ancestral Land''s enemy," Zu Wei said.

    Zu Xi hesitated, then nodded in agreement.

    Mu Xihe didn''t stop him.

    Meanwhile, in the distance, Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu sat on the ground, their faces pale, crying out loud, knowing they had beenpletely forsaken¡­

    Zu Xi drew the Parent g!

    Beside him, Mu Xihe, Li Xuan, Qin Feng, and Wang Chen also held the Parent g and flew towards Yun Xiao, offering it up to him voluntarily.

    The g represented their allegiance.

    Yun Xiao had conquered them with a single stroke,pelling their voluntary submission.

    The sight of these five individuals respectfully approaching the young man in white, g in hand, naturally shook the onlookers in the Million Starlight Pce to their core.

    Yun Xiao¡¯s strength seemed to soar beyondprehension!

    "Ah¡­!"

    Behind him, Shi Feifei, with blood-red hair, already numb, stared nkly at the young man waiting to receive the Parent g, uttering a strange cry.

    "What''s wrong?" Shen Nanyin asked, her world turning upside down.

    Blushing with genuine timidity, Shi Feifei lowered her head and whispered, "I think I need a change of underwear¡­"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 935: Changing the Dynamics of the Heavenly Deity Stellar River!

    The Parent g of the Ancestral Star was now secured!

    "The Heavenly Deity Ster River''sst bastion of hope, and he crushed it with a single sword!"

    Shen Nanyin''s eyes appeared dreamy as she gazed at the young man in white. His carefree and rxed demeanor was like a captivating poison.

    Even though he was much smaller in stature than her, it no longer mattered.

    At this moment, Shi Feifei had be <em>Drenched</em> Feifei, and she could understand why. Because truth be told, she wasn''t far off herself.

    There was some trembling; they had experienced it firsthand, most profoundly.

    Compared to them, although the others were not as obsessed, they felt even more frustrated.

    "Yun Xiao!" After handing over the Parent g, Zu Xi bowed respectfully and said solemnly, "No matter what happens in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm or the Harmony Divine Pce, your extraordinary talentmands my utmost respect. In the Ancestor Immortal Grottopetition, our Heavenly Deity Ster River needs you to take the lead!"

    He himself was a leader, born into greatness and dignity, but now he had to step aside.Mu Xihe, Qin Feng, and others were pale-faced as they looked at Yun Xiao, not daring to utter a single word of dissent.

    The 300 people behind them looked at each other, shock still lingering in their eyes.

    From the details on their faces, it was clear that their previous hostility was now being reced by profound respect.

    In short, they were convinced!

    "Me, taking the lead in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto? Do you all agree?" Yun Xiao asked calmly.

    "The task of defending the dignity of the Heavenly Deity Ster River naturally falls to the most capable! Your strength is exceptional, and anyone who disagrees is short-sighted and does not wish for the Heavenly Deity Ster River to stand proud and formidable," Zu Xi dered solemnly.

    After his defeat, he first handed over the Parent g, then supported Yun Xiao¡­ These actions garnered quite some praise and saved him from a terrible fall.

    In contrast, figures like the five Young Dragon Lords, Xiao Ming, Bloodweaver, and Tang Zhenyan had fallen from grace.

    Even Zhao Cann had been crippled.

    After this battle, Zu Xi maintained his reputation and was unharmed, which was the best possible oue.

    "The Ancestor Immortal Grotto is a contest of peak talents across the 18 Ster Rivers. Now, with the five Young Dragon Lords, Xiao Ming, Zhao Cann, and others losing their chance topete, there may not be ten participants for the Ancestor Immortal Grotto altogether, nearly all of them are here¡­ I believe no one present would question yourbat or leadership abilities!"

    What he referred to as leadership was actually an understatement.

    Yun Xiao''s journey in the Grand Assembly Arena, from having nothing to dominating the Heavenly Deity Ster River region, demonstrated not just his ruthless methods but also a kind of capability!

    With such divine prowess andmanding presencebined, Zu Xi was convinced!

    Not only was he convinced, but his wife Mu Xihe also nodded. Setting aside her personal grievances, she softly said, "In the many Grand Assemblies of Myriad Sects, the Heavenly Deity Ster River has almost always ranked among the bottom three due to disunity. I believe that with Yun Xiao here, our situation will undergo a drastic transformation, just like it did in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm."

    Upon hearing Mu Xihe''s words, the spirits of the 300 people behind her immediately brightened.

    What did it matter if Yun Xiao was strong and overwhelmed them?

    As long as they regarded him as one of their own, it was like finding a new vige beyond the dark willows and blooming flowers!

    Suddenly, their mood greatly improved!

    "As far as swordy goes, you''re a cut above me. With you taking the lead, I''m convinced," Qin Feng said, with no opposition from the other disciples of the Northmaple Sword Sect.

    These sects never really took the plight of the celestial ves seriously, having no prejudice against good or evil. Even though they knew that the Southern Divine Dragon would be relentless against the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, what did that have to do with them?

    Seeing that the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm maintained its identity within the Heavenly Deity Alliance, ording to the rules, the Southern Divine Dragon, not being part of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, had no reason to attack them without facingbined sanctions from the alliance!

    "I agree."

    "Same here!"

    Li Xuan and Wang Chen, the two young leaders of the Myriad Mystic Sea and Canaan Cathedral also spoke out, causing quite a stir.

    Although this was just grandstanding by the younger generation, it could also be the precursor to a major shift in the dynamics of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    Now, it all depended on whether Yun Xiao had the ability to expand his influence from the new generation to the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River, and truly leverage his de to shift the ster dynamics!

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm was sure to be relentless!

    The Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star would definitely follow suit!

    The stance of the Elysian Immortal Pce and Nine Yin Soul Sea was currently unclear.

    Apart from that, the choices of the Ancestral Land, Northmaple Sword Sect, Myriad Sigil Mystic Sea, and Canaan Cathedral within the Heavenly Deity Alliance were crucial.

    Yun Xiao had significant past conflicts with Zu Wei and the Mu brothers. Now, however, Zu Wei seemed to have forgotten her humiliation, and the troubles of the Mu brothers seemed less significant. So, the choice of the Ancestral Land was still up in the air!

    At the very least, Zu Xi and Mu Xihe truly showed a sense of awe towards Yun Xiao.

    Seeing that these 300 peerless talents had a decent sense of the bigger picture and clear minds, Yun Xiao felt reassured.

    Although Zu Wei initially approached Yun Xiao with ill intent, only intending to use him as a counterbnce against the Dragon Devil n, he had already annihted the Dragon Devil n. So, it was all water under the bridge!

    Yun Xiao bowed respectfully and said, "Alright, then. Once we enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, as long as you''re willing to follow my lead, I will do my best to protect you all and elevate the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River!"

    His words were simple, yet carried a direct and vigorous force, giving Zu Xi and the others a sense of security.

    "No problem! The greater good of the Heavenly Deity Ster River takes precedence!" Zu Xi smiled and nodded in agreement.

    His statement also subtly hinted at ignoring the conflicts between the Harmony Divine Pce and Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    The Ancestral Land was the sort to always prioritize the greater good, showing their broader vision in a way.

    Of course, this was predicated on Yun Xiao''s being worthy of leading them.

    If Yun Xiao were of no use, unable to influence the general situation of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, no one would respect him!

    "Once the Grand Assembly Arena battle ends, do all Fifth Baptism Realm or above disciples across the 18 Ster Rivers of the Samsara Gxy directly enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "That''s correct. I heard that Long Hao and Long Kun are not dead but are severely injured. If they haven''t recovered to eighty percent by then, ording to the rules, they also can''t enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. At that time, it seems likely only you and we five will represent the Heavenly Deity Ster River," Zu Xi exined.

    Mu Xihe added, "There''s also a Fifth Baptism Realm disciple from the Nine Yin Soul Sea, but she hasn''t joined us."

    "Right." Yun Xiao''s forces had helped him conquer the Nine Yin Star, but he hadn¡¯t encountered that Fifth Baptism Realm disciple. She had probably stepped away to avoid direct confrontation with Yun Xiao, opting out voluntarily.

    But she would also enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto!

    "I have one on my side too," Yun Xiao said.

    He wasn¡¯t in the Fifth Baptism Realm yet and wasn''t sure if he could enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto yet; he''d have to go back and consult the Three Divas.

    "Could it be Feng Yao?" Mu Xihe asked, somewhat astounded.

    "Yes." Yun Xiao nodded.

    "She''s actually in the Fifth Baptism Realm? No wonder Xiao Ming and the others couldn¡¯t defeat her," Mu Xihe remarked.@@novelbin@@

    They hadn''t participated in the battle of the Extreme Yin Star, but they were very clear about the details.

    "Alright, see you then."

    Since the conversation was settled, Yun Xiao saw no need for further small talk.

    "See you then," Zu Xi and the others bowed as they replied.

    Yun Xiao was about to leave when he suddenly remembered someone and turned back to Zu Xi and Mu Xihe.

    Considering Yun Xiao''s infamous reputation, Mu Xihe and Zu Xi were a bit nervous about his sudden action.

    They were worried Yun Xiao might try to pull something on them.

    Mu Zixiao and Mu Zhilu had essentially fallen victim to Yun Xiao, and now Zu Wei seemed to harbor an enduring obsession with him.

    "Err, you..." Zu Xi started to speak.

    However, Yun Xiao interrupted with a serious tone, "I would like to inquire about someone, a disciple of the Ancestral Land."

    "Oh," Zu Xi exhaled in relief, asking softly, "Who do you wish to inquire about?"

 Chapter 936: Junior Sister Divine Dawn

    "I want to know if you''ve heard about a girl named Shen Xi, or Divine Dawn. Her master is known as Heavenly Monarch Mu. She recently joined the Ancestral Land as a disciple," Yun Xiao said.

    "Divine Dawn!" Mu Xihe eximed, her mouth slightly agape. "Yes, she''s our junior sister! You know her?"

    "To be honest," Yun Xiao replied, "I''m her husband."

    Zu Xi and Mu Xihe were stunned, speechless for a long moment.

    "What''s the matter? Did she break some heavenlyw and get killed? Or did she stir up trouble?" Yun Xiao asked, raising an eyebrow.

    Truth be told, he wasn''t overly concerned about her. He was more worried about Zhao Xuanran, who had been taken away by the third Primordial Coffin without any means to protect herself.@@novelbin@@

    "No, no." Mu Xihe quickly shook her head.

    She exchanged a nce with Zu Xi before saying to Yun Xiao, "She was chosen by the ancestral spirits in the Ancestral Mausoleum and was directly taken to a Category 4 world! This is a miracle that hasn''t happened in our Ancestral Land for millions of years. It''s been widely circted¡ªyou didn''t know?"

    "Ancestral spirits? Category 4 world?" Yun Xiao waspletely puzzled."Yun Xiao," Zu Xi exined, "Our Ancestral Land has a long history with countless ancestors. Our n''s origins aren''t in this Samsara Gxy but stem from a higher lineage. The Category 4 world is our origin. In the Samsara Gxy, besides the Six Paths of Reincarnation, we''re the only ones who have ess to Category 4 worlds. The celestial sects of other Ster Rivers don''t have it!"

    "Are Category 4 worlds that amazing?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s said to be the pinnacle of the celestialdder," Zu Xi enthused, "where countless Boundless Immortalsprehend the universe and cultivate tirelessly, mastering the heavenly dao! The Supreme Heavenly Court is the ultimate dream of countless Immortals! Even the Six Paths of Reincarnation and Six-Eyed Pandemonium originated from there!"

    "Supreme Heavenly Court..." Yun Xiao murmured, then couldn''t help but grumble, "Damn, that little white tiger really knows how to slip away! Can''t even catch her."

    Seeing Yun Xiao''s reaction, Zu Xi and Mu Xihe exchanged nces, thinking to themselves, "Judging by his demeanor, he clearly has a deep rtionship with Divine Dawn... No wonder his talent is so extraordinary. Perhaps he truly has a connection with her!"

    From this, they quickly formted a new n in their hearts.

    "We must tell my father about this," Zu Xi and Mu Xihemunicated privately.

    "Exactly! If Yun Xiao truly has a close rtionship with her, given how much our ancestors value her, they''ll definitely want to protect him," Mu Xihe said.

    "During the Ancestor Immortal Grotto battle, let''s probe him more to confirm his true rtionship with Divine Dawn," Zu Xi added.

    "Agreed."

    The two swiftly reached an agreement.

    Meanwhile, Yun Xiao had gathered the information he needed and had also strengthened his rtionship with Zu Xi and Mu Xihe.

    This was very important!

    Previously, the Ancestral Land and Nine Yin Soul Sea intended to use the Harmony Divine Pce as cannon fodder against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    But now, if the Ancestral Land started taking Yun Xiao seriously, this would be very beneficial for the Harmony Divine Pce!

    "Farewell!" Yun Xiao stepped on his Sovereign Sword, taking Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei with him, and soared away under the gazes of the 300 peerless geniuses!

    After his departure, the Ancestral Star remained restless for a long time!

    At the same time, news of Yun Xiao suppressing 300 geniuses with a single sword¡ªsubduing talents like Zu Xi and the other Fifth Baptism Realm geniuses¡ªspread through various flying talismans at a terrifying speed throughout the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena!

    This news was like a tsunami!

    Those who had initially nned to resist desperately for a while longer, unwilling to be mere background characters, were directly ttened by this tidal wave!

    "Damn! How are we supposed to go against someone this freakish!!"

    "At this point, the only way to feel good is to support Yun Xiao representing the Heavenly Deity Ster River in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto!"

    "Yun Xiao, I''m your die-hard fan!"

    As expected of geniuses, everyone adapted quickly. After adjusting their mindset, they indeed felt much better.

    So, when Yun Xiao''s forces arrived at each Taiyi Sourcecore, there was no need to attack; the opponents directly took out their Parent gs and personally handed them over!

    In this way, the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena witnessed the most absurd scene in its history. Nearing the end¡ªwhich was supposed to be the most intense moment¡ªthe region was unexpectedly harmonious, and everyone still alive was grinning from ear to ear!

    Since it seemed obvious that Carefree Windy Clouds would unify the Heavenly Deity Ster River region, everyone felt there was no need topete anymore. Even the other Heavenly Deity Alliance sects ended up with zero points! So, it wasn''t considered a disgrace!

    As long as someone utterly unrivaled appeared, everyone suddenly adopted aid-back attitude!

    So they watched helplessly as the Carefree Windy Clouds faction left everyone in the dust on the Grand Assembly Rankings.

    Under such circumstances¡­

    "Yun Xiao, why aren''t we returning to the Extreme Yin Star? These small fry have already lost their will; there''s no need for you to personally lead the expedition," Shi Feifei asked sweetly, her enchanting eyes lingering on Yun Xiao.

    "Don''t ask too many questions," Yun Xiao replied with a straight face.

    "Okay!" Shi Feifei responded coquettishly.

    Little did she know, Yun Xiao was intentionally wasting time outside to avoid the wrath of Si Ji.

    So he deliberately slowed his pace.

    Why did he bring along Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei?

    The real reason was that they moved more slowly; by matching their speed, Yun Xiao appeared to be busy.

    He was like a patrollingmander, taking the two women with him as he conquered one Taiyi Sourcecore after another, incidentally epting Personal Pledges and collecting some membership fees...

    Even though Yun Xiao tried to slow down, the momentum of the Carefree Windy Clouds faction swallowing the Heavenly Deity Ster River region was still too swift!

    With only one day left in the Grand Assembly Arenapetition, the score of the Carefree Windy Clouds faction on the Grand Assembly Rankings had soared to the highest number in history!

    It was 555 points!

    This meant that the Child gs of the Extreme Yin Star were nted on every Taiyi Sourcecore in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region!

    These ice-blue gs fluttered in the wind! Under each g, the subdued participants gazed at it with incrediblyplex expressions.

    "Yun Xiao has unified the Heavenly Deity Ster River region!"

    Even though it was just a game for the new generation, he had achieved something truly astonishing.

    This was the most incredible spectacle in history!

    As the gs flew, everyone looked up to the heavens; that score of 555 seemed to herald the birth of a supreme genius!

    Such a passionate event still elicited exmations of awe from many gifted prodigies.

    The fervent voices echoed across the sky, shaking the Grand Assembly Arena, even affecting the other Ster River regions!

    In the Million Starlight Pce, the countless onlookers gazed upon the screens filled with Extreme Yin Child gs and heard the heartfelt cheers of countless geniuses...

    For a moment, silence reigned supreme!

    Words could no longer capture the shift in everyone''s hearts within the Million Starlight Pce.

    Yun Xiao, embracing a Young Dragon Consort on each arm, was like an emperor touring his realm on this final day. Passing by each Taiyi Sourcecore, he epted Personal Pledges!

    His nobility, the bashful charm of the Young Dragon Consorts, the submission of the prodigies... It all seemed to herald that this young man would recreate the Grand Assembly Arena''s struggle for supremacy across the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    As for why he was holding two such breathtaking beauties? Naturally, it was to trample repeatedly on the collective pride of the Dragon Devil n¡ªtantamount to urinating on every Dragon Devil n member''s face countless times!

    He was humiliating them to the extreme!

    One could imagine how twisted the expressions of those Dragon Devil n elders and all the disciples on the Southern Divine Dragon Star were at this moment...

    Yun Xiao felt the exhration of his cultivation journey! On the path to immortality, being stronger than others brought countless advantages!

    He indulged in this delight, momentarily forgetting someone, even daydreaming about the uing challenge in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto!

    It was rumored that the geniuses from the other Ster Rivers were no pushovers!

    "The Three Divas hoped the Harmony Divine Pce would make the top ten. But I''ve led it to dominate the Heavenly Deity Ster River region, take first ce, and unify the realm! At this point, I''ve already exceeded the mission... Si Ji, does this bnce things out a bit for you?"

    At such a moment, Yun Xiao''s hesitation to return to the Extreme Yin Star revealed his guilty conscience. Truthfully, he knew that he could try to avoid the issue for a while but not forever.

    "You rotten scoundrel! Why aren''t you back yet?"

    Somewhere on the Extreme Yin Star, Feng Yao cursed through the Mortal Dust Devil Seed.

    "Coming,ing," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Don''t just say you''reing backe back immediately! Si Ji is looking for you!" Feng Yao''s tone was peculiar.

    "Ah, no rush, I''m unifying the realm," Yun Xiao gritted his teeth.

    "Unify your sister! What on earth did you do to piss her off so much? She said if you don''te back right now, she''ll kill me! Get your ass back here!"

    As soon as Feng Yao said this, Yun Xiao felt a splitting headache. He suddenly pped down hard on his <em>little brother</em>, cursing, "It''s all your fault!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 937: Planned Assassination!

    Back in the Million Starlight Pce, as the Grand Assembly Arena battle drew to a close, within the vast Sourcecore Sanctuary, dust billowed and excitement surged among the people.

    On the screen, gazing toward the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena, countless Extreme Yin Child gs fluttered in the wind. The name Carefree Windy Clouds hung high in the sky, its aura dominating the starry void!

    Below the screen, countless faces disyed a myriad of expressions.

    When Yun Xiao personally nted the final Extreme Yin Child g into thest Taiyi Sourcecore, the uproar from the powerful Immortals surged like crashing waves, echoing endlessly.

    "Yun Xiao has made history!"

    "He is truly a miraculous being!"

    "I would call him the god of our generation in the Heavenly Deity Ster River! To share the same era with such a figure is our honor..."@@novelbin@@

    Such high praise was not rare; it flowed from the mouths of countless people.

    Their eyes were filled with genuine admiration and wholehearted admiration.Even if geniuses from their own sects had fallen to Yun Xiao''s sword, many fellow sect members found it hard to harbor hatred toward him.

    In this realm, where all things ascended to the heavens, strength was the only eternal truth!

    Yun Xiao transformed from a despised toad, ridiculed by all, to the most radiant and revered sun of the Grand Assembly Arena. Throughout it all, his character remainedrgely unchanged.

    He simply defeated more opponents! By battling continuously, he became a legend. This was the reality of the Dao Realm.

    Kill one person, and it was a crime. Kill ten people; it was a grave crime. Kill a hundred people, and the crime was unforgivable. Kill ten thousand people, and you would be a hero.

    Of course, by relying on the Young Dragon Consorts, he demonstrated his true prowess in a single move, leaving himself without weaknesses¡ªa highlight in his journey of battles.

    With that sword strike on the Ancestral Star, Yun Xiao not only subdued those 300 peerless geniuses but also won the utmost admiration and wholehearted respect of the Immortals behind them.

    For a time, praises and admiration for Yun Xiao echoed endlessly in the Million Starlight Pce.

    "This kid''s strength has skyrocketed all the way; how far can he go in his cultivation?"

    "Will he be the top figure in the Samsara Gxy in the future?"

    Countless millions discussed excitedly, utterly thrilled.

    Amid such a fervent atmosphere, those who had been truly suppressed by Yun Xiao naturally felt extreme anger and agony, as if 10,000 swords pierced their hearts.

    "Empyrean Emperor Mu," the Great Dream Lord said. Scanning the jubnt crowd and the smiles on their faces, she gritted her teeth and asked in a low voice, "You haven''t forgotten the suffering of your two sons, have you?"

    She, for one, could not forget the death of her own son, Meng Huan!

    Empyrean Emperor Mu indeed looked displeased.

    When Zu Xi, Mu Xihe, and Yun Xiao became allies, Empyrean Emperor Mu and the Great Dream Lord became the biggestughingstocks in the Million Starlight Pce.

    "Does your attitude represent that of the entire Nine Yin Soul Sea?" Empyrean Emperor Mu asked.

    "Of course it does! We will not let Meng Huan''s death go unanswered!" the Great Dream Lord replied coldly.

    "So, Meng Huan''s biological father is...?" Empyrean Emperor Mu narrowed his eyes, suddenly bringing up a taboo topic the Great Dream Lord did not wish to discuss.

    "Don''t specte wildly!" she retorted sternly.

    Although she didn''t answer, someone like Empyrean Emperor Mu could easily deduce the truth.

    The Great Dream Lord wasn''t the true decision-maker of the Nine Yin Soul Sea. Yet, she was certain they wouldn''t let this matter rest. This could only mean that Meng Huan''s hidden father held a status higher than hers.

    In the Nine Yin Soul Sea, the only person higher in status than the Great Dream Lord and not closely rted by blood could only be that one individual!

    "Empyrean Emperor Mu, your sect''s Zu Wei was humiliated, your two sons suffered such disgrace, and that young man is so arrogant and ruthless. Surely, the esteemed Ancestral Land won''t swallow this insult, right? He may be reigning supreme in the Grand Assembly Arena, but perhaps he''s forgotten that in the real world, the Harmony Divine Pce that backs him is nothing," the Great Dream Lord pressed, her tone icy.

    Empyrean Emperor Mu was about to nod when a flying talisman arrived. After reading it, his brows knitted tightly, a sh of barely suppressed hostility and killing intent flickering in his eyes.

    However, he took a deep breath and restrained himself.

    "The elders of the Ancestral Land are telling you to endure?!" Seeing his expression, the Great Dream Lord guessed the content of the message.

    "Great Dream Lord." Empyrean Emperor Mu looked up at her. After careful thought, he said, "Perhaps we don''t need to rush. Right now, those most eager for revenge are the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, the three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects allied with them, and perhaps the Elysian Immortal Pce."

    "I knew you''d say that¡ªtypical evasive tactics. I pity your two sons¡ªsons of an Empyrean Emperor¡ªreduced to sacrificial pawns with no one to stand up for them." With that, the Great Dream Lord stood up abruptly and said, "Our paths diverge; I won''t keep you."

    She didn''t wait for the Grand Assembly Arena battle to conclude. Instead, she left early, taking all Nine Yin Soul Sea experts at the Heavenly Monarch level or above with her, departing the seating area of the Million Starlight Pce ahead of time.

    "Zixiao, Zhilu!" Empyrean Emperor Mu closed his eyes, leaned back in his chair, clenched his fists tightly, and slowly crushed the talisman in his hand into powder.

    Elsewhere, in the seating area of the Elysian Immortal Pce¡­

    "Senior Brother!" Gong Tianjian, chief of the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s Joint Law Enforcement Division, approached Yun Sheng¡ªthe elegant figure as carefree as a floating cloud¡ªwith a solemn expression.

    "What is it you wish to say?" Yun Sheng tapped his fingers on the armrest and asked calmly.

    "When the Grand Assembly Arena battle concludes, the sealing array will deactivate. There will be a gap as eligible disciples move from there to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto," Gong Tianjian said coldly.

    "So?" Yun Sheng raised an eyebrow.

    "That scoundrel is somewhat difficult to deal with, having the protection of the Three Divas from the Harmony Divine Pce. But his actions have already provoked the wrath of the Dragon Devil n. He has touched their reverse scale¡ªa fatal offense!

    "In legend, touching a dragon''s reverse scale means certain death. Several Dragon Emperors, along with the leaders of the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and the Thunderme God Star, have decided. As soon as the sealing array deactivates, they will ambush that scoundrel, seize the Supreme Yin Cauldron, and not give these two wretches any more chances," Gong Tianjian said venomously.

    Yun Sheng replied calmly, "Thepetitions of the Grand Assembly Arena and Ancestor Immortal Grotto are both parts of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. These two likely meet the criteria to participate. Ambushing them at this time would raise suspicions of interfering with the fairness of the Assembly."

    "As the hosts this time, we should prioritize our reputation and not act recklessly, lest we be aughingstock to the other Ster Rivers. If they step forward to hold us ountable, we will be unable to face them.

    "Moreover, if we set this precedent, other Ster Rivers might imitate us in the future, dispatching Eighth Baptism Realm elders during this gap period to assassinate the next generation talents of their opponents. This would throw the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects into chaos and render it meaningless. Those who participate today would go down in history as viins," Yun Sheng spoke calmly, and with each word, the dissatisfaction on Gong Tianjian''s face deepened.

    "Senior Brother!" Gong Tianjian interrupted him, gritting her teeth. "Haven''t you realized that scoundrel''s talent yet? Do you know what time it is now, and you''re still hesitating? This boy will be a major threat in the future! Facing such a monster, dying his death even for a moment is destroying the future of the Elysian Immortal Pce! Even if we have to pay a great price to our reputation, we must take the most decisive action to strangle him in the cradle!"

    "Is that so?" Yun Sheng pursed his lips. "But as I see it, he''s only a major threat to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, not to us. From the perspective of our Elysian Immortal Pce, with the current changes in the Harmony Divine Pce, we should observe quietly and not act impulsively.

    "Besides, with those Dragon Emperors and the leaders of the other three Heavenly Deity Alliances sects bent on killing a mere child, they have enough people; why should we go out of our way to curry favor?"

    "You!" Gong Tianjian gritted her teeth and said in a deep voice, "You were the one who told me to befriend the Southern Divine Dragon Realm before, and now you''re telling me to keep my distance. What are you thinking? No one will truly trust someone who wavers!"

 Chapter 938: Coming Home to Roost

    Yun Sheng suddenly smiled and looked at Gong Tianjian. "Then I''ll trouble you to exin our Elysian Immortal Pce''s difficulties to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Moreover, if you wish to take action yourself, I won''t stop you. As the chief of the Joint Law Enforcement Division and the face of our Elysian Immortal Pce, sending you into the fray should be more than enough as a show of our sincerity."

    Gong Tianjian''s expression changed slightly upon hearing this. She said, "Senior Brother, you''ve misunderstood. Everything I have was given by our master and the Elysian Immortal Pce. I was born a member of the Elysian Immortal Pce, and I''ll die as one. Everything I''m doing now is for the sake of the Elysian Immortal Pce."

    "You don''t need to exin. My father and I have never doubted you. This is merely a minor ideological conflict. There''s no need to make a big deal out of it. Feel free to act ording to your judgment; I support you," Yun Sheng said calmly.

    "Thank you for your understanding, Senior Brother."

    Gong Tianjian no longer wished to say more.

    She understood what Yun Sheng meant. He wouldn''t stop her from choosing aggressive tactics like the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. If the results were fruitful, he would personally step forward tomend her and im the credit. But if anything unforeseen happened, he would sever ties with her to protect himself.

    Gong Tianjian could choose to avoid this by aligning with Yun Sheng''s stance and refraining from forcefully participating in the ambush with the Dragon Devil n. But she clearly didn''t want to! Her disciple Zhao Cann''s miserable state and her own rtionship with the Dragon Devil n were things she couldn''t ignore.

    "That brat is indeed defying the heavens in the Grand Assembly Arena," Gong Tianjian thought. "However, the futurendscape of the Heavenly Deity Ster River isn''t something a mere youngster can change. The more conspicuous he bes, the more people will want to kill him. In such a grand situation, the Yun n still chooses a conservative approach. Truly..."

    Gong Tianjian could only sneer inwardly.No matter how talented Yun Xiao was, could a genius withstand an assassination attempt from a group of Eighth Baptism Realm experts?

    At this point, if they still let this so-called genius develop smoothly, they''d be fools.

    Yun Xiao had to die, and the Supreme Yin Cauldron had to be captured! Crushing these two budding youngsters was incredibly easy! Who would let a wildfire rage unchecked?

    As Gong Tianjian and Yun Sheng were conversing, the experts of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm wore grim expressions and collectively withdrew.

    The experts from the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star also exited together.

    Gong Tianjian cast a cold nce at the solitary Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen. In the end, she chose to remain, keeping a watch on her like a venomous snake.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen''s heart pounded wildly. She knew that Yun Xiao''s extraordinary performance had already driven the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and their allies mad!

    The assassination plot had been moved up! Originally nned for after the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, it was now set to ur right after the Grand Assembly Arena battle concluded!

    The Dragon Devil n and the top experts from three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects had all withdrawn. Even the Nine Yin Soul Sea had left.

    The only constion was that the Elysian Immortal Pce and the Ancestral Land were still present.

    "Gong Tianjian..."

    There was still a venomous snake lurking behind!

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen knew that this old woman had her firmly in her sights.

    If they made a move over at the Grand Assembly Arena, then action would be taken here as well!

    "Sigh..." The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen wasn''t worried about herself; she wasn''t afraid to die. "I hope those three can, through Yun Xiao''s performance, realize that the enemy''s frenzied killing intent has advanced."

    She closed her eyes and silently prayed.

    Many around had already sensed this chilling, oppressive atmosphere; their moods grew tense.

    "What a shame. I really don''t want a heaven defying genius like Yun Xiao to just be a sh in the pan."

    "If he ends up like fireworks, shining only briefly, it''d be such a pity..."

    "I truly want to see how high he could soar in the future!"

    "Isn''t there anyone in the Ancestral Land or Elysian Immortal Pce with the courage to protect him from the clutches of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm? Even if he defects to the Ancestral Land, that would be fine!"

    "It''s difficult! The Southern Divine Dragon Realm is too powerful now. Who dares to mortally offend such a game-changer? They''ve be so strong they''ve already affected the bnce of the Heavenly Deity Alliance."

    "Currently, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm can''t be a member of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, but the Harmony Divine Pce still is. By attacking a Heavenly Deity Alliance sect''s disciples, they''re viting one of the core prohibitions. How will the other sects view this?"

    "Honestly, the Southern Divine Dragon Realmcks status in the Heavenly Deity Alliance yet still takes action. This only shows that the bnce within our Heavenly Deity Ster River has already beenpletely broken. Everything that follows is unpredictable..."

    "Two lives influencing the fate of an entire Ster River. Sigh. Is it that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm is too overbearing, or are the destinies of these two youngsters too extraordinary, inciting heavenly wrath?"

    After the waves of shock, with the early departure of powerhouses from all sides, a chilling and tense atmosphere began to envelop the entire Million Starlight Pce.

    Yet none of this was a problem for Yun Xiao. Si Ji waking up¡ªthat was the real issue.

    She was so furious that she threatened Yun Xiao with Feng Yao''s life, an extremely serious matter! Her level of anger was beyond what Yun Xiao had anticipated.

    "All I did was secretly swap out the helper! So what if I was a bit heavy-handed? Is that worth throwing such a fit?"

    Yun Xiao urgently rushed back to the Extreme Yin Star. Along the way, he kept muttering while frantically feeding Supreme Immortal Jades to Red Moon.

    "Ugh!" He was pouring so much into him that even Red Moon was about to vomit.

    "I never imagined that the most stuffed I''ve ever been would be to clean up your mess!" Red Moon mumbled.

    Why was Yun Xiao doing this? Obviously, it was to be safe! He didn''t want to die over this matter; that would be too ridiculous.

    Even with Blue Star and Red Moon, Yun Xiao still felt the pressure.

    "Yun Xiao, why are you sweating? Feeling hot inside? Let me cool you down," Shi Feifei said tenderly.

    "Get lost! Stop bothering me." Thest thing Yun Xiao needed right now was women, and here she was trying to flirt.

    This journey was shorter than Yun Xiao had expected.

    It felt like in the blink of an eye, they arrived at the Extreme Yin Star.

    "She wants you to go to <em>that ce</em>!" Feng Yao said. She wasn''t in any immediate danger because Si Ji had only privately threatened her and didn''t really intend to take her life.

    But as long as she made such threats, Yun Xiao couldn''t ignore them.

    "Alright!" Yun Xiao nodded.

    "By the way, what did you do to make her so angry?" Feng Yao asked, full of curiosity.

    "None of your business." Yun Xiao left Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei behind and headed to the far side of the Extreme Yin Star.

    "Tsk... Honestly, it''s not hard to guess. You scoundrel, you''ll end up ruined by women one day," Feng Yao snorted. Then she pondered to herself silently, "What''s with this guy? Ignoring the grass by his own nest but going out to graze elsewhere? Could it be because I rejected him too harshly? Or is it the issue with the Blood Base giving him some psychological pressure?"

    Anyway, Feng Yao was speechless.

    "Don''t talk nonsense. My rtionship with the Diva is pure. She''s angry because I killed recklessly and offended too many sects," Yun Xiao bluffed.

    "Really?" Hearing this, Feng Yao''s mood suddenly brightened. Sheughed to herself. "So, I had been overthinking things! I misjudged him. He''s not someone who messes around, and how could that Diva possibly let him have his way?!"

    She silently vowed that she would never overthink or badmouth him again!

    Just as she rxed, Yun Xiao felt a chill run down his spine as he arrived outside the valley.

    Ahead was a pale pink mist. Within the mist, it seemed as if a primordial behemoth was hidden. Her anger was beyond words; the entire abyss was filled with surging mist, like the breath she exhaled.

    "Yu Ji hasn''t broken out of her shell yet; she can''t help me." Yun Xiao could only brace himself. He took a deep breath and called toward the valley, "Sister Si Ji, your little brother is back..."@@novelbin@@<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 939: Let There Be Purity!

    When Yun Xiao called out, the icy cave remained deathly silent; no one responded for a long time. But he knew she was in there!

    Her aura, her presence, her current ferocity had reached an extreme level, like an icy mountain pressing down on his head. The chilling cold seeped into his body through his eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, freezing his blood and chilling his organs.

    It felt as if a ferocious beast was ring at him¡ªlike the calm before the storm.

    Yun Xiao took a deep breath. He knew he had to face this bravely¡ªit was his duty as a man. Regardless of the oue, since he had done this, he needed to take responsibility.

    So, braving the freezing of his body, he forced himself to move forward, re-entering that cave which, in his memories, was filled with pink hues and romantic allure.@@novelbin@@

    His footsteps crunched on the ground. The cave walls were covered in ice and snow. Deeper inside, snowkes whirled wildly, cold mist surged, emitting eerie howls that sent shivers down one''s spine.

    Yun Xiao pressed forward against the wind and snow, his entire body coated in frost; even his hair was frozen.

    Though it became increasingly difficult, he persevered. Finally, he took onest step. After entering the cave, his view suddenly opened up¡ªa frigid space with walls of pink and white ice appeared before him.

    Amidst the swirling pink and white snowkes, a breathtakingly beautiful woman naturally stood out the most.Her white hair flowed like a crystalline waterfall; her pink eyes were bright and clear. The more expressionless she appeared, the colder she seemed. Beneath her jewel-adorned gown, a snake tail with pink and white scales coiled in the air, exuding istion and chill.

    Yun Xiao had seen many beauties, but Si Ji was among the most perfect in terms of appearance. A goddess-like face paired with a snake tail¡ªa symbol of taboo and temptation¡ªthis contrast formed an irresistible allure that quickened one''s heartbeat.

    Of course, Yun Xiao was currently in no mood to appreciate such peerless beauty. As soon as he stepped into the icy cave, a suppressed, murderous fury locked onto him.

    He wasn''t sure if she had reached the level of a Boundless Immortal, but she was undoubtedly much stronger than before!

    In this confined space, the two were like a giant serpent facing a helpless rabbit. The pink-and-white serpent bared its fangs, flicking its tongue; icy venom dripped from its teeth...

    Yun Xiao could only shiver in fear.

    "Si Ji..." He braced himself, intending to apologize. But just as he uttered those two words, his tongue and throat were sealed in ice!

    So, she couldn''t even stand to hear his voice? Did she truly find Yun Xiao''s deception unforgivable, or was she just discarding him now that he''d served his purpose?

    Yun Xiao hadn''t had time to figure it out when Si Ji appeared right before him, her icy aura crashing over him like a tidal wave!

    He was instantly frozen solid, feeling as if he''d be an immobile snowman; even his blood had stopped flowing, his body covered in snowkes. In such extreme cold, even his... well, everything had shrunk from the freeze!

    At this moment, Yun Xiao had no thoughts whatsoever about the Snow Lineage Diva; the circumstances didn''t allow it. All he felt was the cold!

    What was she nning to do?

    Yun Xiao met her eyes up close. Her pink eyes stared at him with extreme indifference, but beneath that coldness, he could faintly see a multitude ofplex emotions¡ªresentment, shame, pain...

    All her emotions were forcibly concealed beneath the ice.

    She suddenly spoke in a slightly trembling voice, slowly saying, "Although you helped me take the most important step in my life, you broke the taboo without my consent, destroying what I''ve upheld all my life. I cannot forgive you."

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao struggled to move his tongue. He wanted to say, "Come on, there''s not much difference between using fingers and that¡­"

    But unfortunately, he waspletely frozen; he couldn''t move his tongue, not even his pores.

    "You''re not a celestial ve, and you deceived Yao Yao. You''re not a good man and unworthy of her trust. For your wanton behavior, you must be punished...!" As Si Ji spoke, her pink eyes slowly traveled down from Yun Xiao''s face. That merciless gaze moving downward would make any man shudder.

    "Hey, what are you doing?!" Yun Xiao wanted to shout, but he couldn''t make a sound; only a trace of panic showed in his eyes.

    Fixing her gaze on her target, Si Ji suddenly closed her eyes, bit her lip decisively, and dered, "Since it''s what led you astray, let it atone for itself!"

    "Damn, damn, damn, damn...!" Yun Xiao never imagined that she didn''t intend to kill him but nned to take out all the consequences on <em>that</em>!

    Well, it was true¡ªit was <em>that</em> that helped her be a Boundless Immortal. With his Nine Dragons Ascending to Heaven technique, he had left her on cloud nine.

    But now, recalling the experience, Si Ji felt utterly ashamed.

    To her, Yun Xiao''s root of sin was the greatest allure in the world. It was the most terrifying sword, but also the most forbidden taboo. It made her break down and question her life. She was conflicted, but this inner turmoil wouldn''t stop her from upholding her dignity!

    "Let there be purity!"

    Suddenly, an ice de formed on her fingertip¡ªextremely cold and razor-sharp, imbued with an estimated 16 different kinds of tribtion power¡ªa deadly weapon few could withstand!

    "Stop!" Yun Xiao''s scalp tingled, but he still couldn''t utter those words.

    This was the perfect example of an old adage. If you walked by the river, your feet were bound to get wet. In other words, frequently engaging in risky behavior would inevitably lead to trouble.

    This time, not only were Yun Xiao''s feet wet, but his feet were about to be chopped off!

    The pink-white ice de shot forth with lightning speed, utterly decisive and without a hint of hesitation, slicing toward Yun Xiao''s most treasured part. This critical, suffocating moment was more unbearable than death!

    Her resolve was absolute!

    At that moment, she closed her eyes, perhaps showing a trace of regret. After all, recalling the sensation of that bliss, it was probably 100 times more fulfilling than anything else in life. She still couldn''t forget that such an overwhelming experience existed in the world.

    But she bit her lip, made up her mind, and decided to go all out!

    <em>KLANG! </em>A piercing sound exploded in the icy cave, causing the snowkes on the surrounding walls to cascade down.

    Si Ji suddenly opened her eyes wide in disbelief and murmured, "It''s so hard!!"

    The ice de in her hand, capable of killing anyone, had seemingly hit an unbreakable barrier and shattered instantly!

    Si Ji couldn''t believe it¡ªwasn''t this just a part of his flesh?

    How could his defense be so strong!

    In that moment of shock, she stared intently. She saw before her a dark bronze coffin standing upright, its lid facing her, with tworge blue eyes on it!

    "What is this thing!"

    Si Ji was taken aback. Looking down, her exaggerated astonishment finally subsided. It turned out that her ice de hadn''t struck Yun Xiao''s <em>little brother</em> but had hit the coffin instead, and the coffin had blocked her attack!

    If his<em> sword</em> were really that hard, Si Ji would be speechless, perhaps even a bit afraid.

    "Yun Xiao, you¡­ you!" Si Ji red at the upright coffin before her and couldn''t help but scold, "What kind of contraption is this? You''re hiding inside?"

    "Ahem." The person inside the coffin was obviously still shaken. Likely still in a defensive posture, he took a while topose himself before speaking in a gentle voice, "Si Ji, let''s talk this out calmly; please don''t act impulsively."

    "Shut up! Don''t call me that! I am the Snow Lineage Diva!" Si Ji was so angry that her hair seemed to stand on end. She wasn''t usually quick to anger, but seeing this imprable coffin before her made the fury in her chest surge.

    <em>BANG! BANG! BANG! </em>She reached out and mmed the ancient bronze coffin a few times, producing loud thuds. With her current strength, she could probably break even a Burying Heaven celestial treasure. But the ancient coffin didn''t have a single scratch.

    From this, she could surmise that this coffin was likely the secret behind Yun Xiao''s rapid rise.

    "Calm down first, take it easy." Yun Xiao had finally caught his breath and could speak normally now, his tone calming down.

 Chapter 940: A Vulgar Desire Or Life!

    "I can''t calm down! I can''t be rational! You''ve ruined me! If I don''t make you pay for this, you scoundrel, I can''t live another moment!"

    Si Ji was utterly furious. She suddenly mmed the bronze coffin onto the ground and coiled her snake tail around it. Her once serene and beautiful face now appearedpletely frenzied.

    "I ruined you?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help but roll his eyes at her words. He said, "Come on, stop being so melodramatic, will you? Haven''t you just achieved the greatest dream of your life? Who helped you get there in one step? When you were on the brink of death, who pulled you back from the gates of the underworld?

    "I''m your savior; under normal circumstances, I could be considered your second parent, right? Think about it carefully¡ªis it that I ruined you, or did I personally elevate you to the divine pedestal?"

    "Shut up!" Si Ji shouted sharply, tears streaming from her pink eyes. She red intensely at the coffin before her and said angrily, "Everything you''ve said is true; you did help me immensely. But the fact remains that you acted without my consent! I am grateful to you but also resent you¡ªthose are two separate matters! Let''s keep them separate!

    "You simply don''t understand what such humiliation means to the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm! I''m their Diva; I should lead by example. But now I''m tainted and disgraced¡ªhow can I face them? How can I face the two founders of the Harmony Divine Pce?"

    Hearing this, Yun Xiao grew even angrier and retorted, "Oh, give me a break! How dare you mention the two founders of the Harmony Divine Pce? The shackles of yin energy on your soul were set by them¡ªthey''re the ones who wanted your life! They''re the ones who turned you all into fools defying the naturalws of heaven and earth!

    "They''re the ones who isted you, causing countless innocent descendants to perish! You still revere such ancestors who harm their own offspring as the ultimate truth? Tell me, after cultivating for over 1,000 years, have you ended up with nothing but rubbish? Can''t you discern such basic right from wrong?"

    "Yun Xiao, I told you to shut up! Stop talking!"Clearly, Yun Xiao''s words struck the deepest chord in her journey to bing a Boundless Immortal. Even now, she was still struggling internally. It wasn''t that she couldn''t see through it; it was just that the indoctrination ingrained in her since childhood was too deep.

    As for the <em>purity</em> of the women in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, it was actually the greatest shackle imposed on them by the two founders of the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "I insist on saying it!" Yun Xiao snorted coldly, his tone rather harsh as he raised his voice, "Could you please take a good look at yourself right now? Your aura, yourplexion, your cultivation¡ªobjectively speaking, aren''t they far superior to before? Do you know how beautiful you are now? And you''re still calling yourself tainted and filthy? Come on, as long as someone''s not blind or their nose isn''t clogged, they can see how radiant you are and smell how fragrant you are!

    "At this very moment, the strong, invincible, beautiful, noble you who can achieve any dream¡ªthat is the real you. You always had the talent to be a Boundless Immortal; it was the two founders of the Harmony Divine Pce who destroyed you!

    "Now you''ve finally broken free from their malicious shadow. Such a perfect you¡ªeven the two founders aren''t worthy topare with you! So why are you still listening to their brainwashing? You can now be the new progenitor of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm for the next 1,000,000 years!"

    No matter how closed-minded Si Ji was, as long as she was a woman, under Yun Xiao''s words¡ªwhich seemed like scolding but were actually praising her to the extreme¡ªshe couldn''t help but be affected.

    "Enough!" As she listened, the hatred in her eyes gradually faded, reced by confusion. She touched her face, gazed at her reflection in the ice, and asked nkly, "Am I really... still okay now?"

    "What do you mean still okay? If you just smile, you''d be ten times more beautiful than before! At this point, if you''re still frowning, isn''t that a waste? If I were you, I''d beughing across 3,000 miles, dominating all realms, telling everyone, ''I am a Boundless Immortal!''" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "You can''t expect ivory from a dog''s mouth! You''re always saying such exaggerated things," Si Ji pouted, somewhat reproachfully.

    "I''m just speaking from the heart... truly!" Yun Xiao took a deep breath and said earnestly, "Actually, deep down, you understand better than I do. The vastness of the dao lies in the fact that it''s through reproduction and inheritance that the world today is so prosperous. The Divine Spring Water is just an exception in this world, but an exception never equates to <em>correctness</em>, let alone <em>justice</em>.

    "Reproducing descendants through the Divine Spring Water, as long as it exists, has its rationale, but it doesn''t prove that normal reproduction is wrong or unreasonable! On the contrary, it''s because of normal reproduction that there is the passing down of generations! So, matters between men and women have never been evil, nor taboo¡ªthey are great; they are the progression of life and inheritance.

    "Just because the two founders of the Harmony Divine Pce¡ªthose old hags with lumps on their brains¡ªdefined it as evil to elevate their historical status and gain attention, do you have to regard it as a burden and uphold it?

    "The two founders were Boundless Immortals; you are also a Boundless Immortal. In what way are you inferior to them? You''re already a Boundless Immortal. Yet, you''re letting two old fossils who died so long ago that not even their bones remain define your life?!"

    Yun Xiao''s words struck her like resounding bells.

    Of course, Yun Xiao didn''t think he was changing her. Sometimes, women could be quiteplicated; even when they understood something, they just needed a graceful way to step down, or they''d rather die than concede.

    Now, Yun Xiao had paved the way for her, extended his hand to wee her, giving her all the respect she needed!

    Sure enough, after listening to all this, Si Ji lowered her head and bit her lips. After holding back for a long time, she suddenly said, "Don''t talk nonsense. As descendants, no matter how our ancestors were, we must respect them..."

    "Look, even you can''t say that with a straight face!" Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "Yun Xiao!" Si Ji red at the ancient bronze coffin, annoyed. "No matter what sweet talk you use, I won''t forgive you. Come out of there right now and apologize to me."

    "I won''t. If Ie out, you''ll cut off my... root. I''m not that foolish. Without it, I''d rather die! Life would be meaningless¡ªyou don''t even realize you almost killed your savior today," Yun Xiao snorted.

    "What''s wrong with you? Isn''t it just a vulgar desire? Why treat it as more important than life?" Si Ji said, exasperated.

    "Because I''m a vulgar person; it''s more important than life," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Ugh!" Si Ji truly couldn''t stand him anymore. She finally stopped coiling around the dark bronze coffin, flew up, andnded not far away, somewhat impatiently saying, "Fine, I''ll spare it for now. You cane out!"

    "You''re not lying to me¡­?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Though I''m not a man, I keep my word," Si Ji paused. "Besides, with this treasure protecting you, what are you afraid of?"

    "True enough," Yun Xiao nodded contentedly.

    With that, he finally emerged from within Blue Star and Red Moon. Although the little ck beast had just blocked an ice de earlier, the attack had consumed quite a bit of resources, and Yun Xiao was still reluctant.

    At this moment, the iparably handsome young man in white appeared before the stunning pink-white serpent maiden of the Harmony Divine Pce. The two locked eyes, and the atmosphere was somewhat awkward.

    Just as Yun Xiao was about to speak, Si Ji preemptively said, "Don''t get too happy. I''m just sparing it for now. If it misbehaves again, I''ll make you regret it."

    "Si Ji, what do you mean by misbehaves?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Now calling her by her name, the Snow Lineage Diva didn''t seem to mind. She gave Yun Xiao an annoyed nce, sat down to the side, and sulked, saying, "You know perfectly well, so don''t ask."

    "Understood." Seeing that her anger had mostly subsided, Yun Xiao became earnest and serious, putting on a sincere expression as he sat down beside her.

    "We still need to sort out our rtionship," Yun Xiao took the initiative to say.@@novelbin@@

    "How do we sort it out? This is an ill-fated rtionship." Si Ji bit her lip and shook her head helplessly.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    <strong>"Si Ji, what do you mean by misbehaves?" Yun Xiao asked.</strong></blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 941: Dream Bigger!

    As the colossal celestial formation of the Grand Assembly Arena deactivated, even the 556 times enhanced Extreme Yin Star Barrier began to dissipate!

    Before Yun Xiao''s eyes, the raging blizzard vanished. Snowkes and ice crystals fell gently, settling silently on the ground.

    The air began to warm.

    Yun Xiao felt much morefortable, as if winter had passed and early spring had arrived.

    Even Si Ji, who moments ago was like the very source of cold, emerged from the ice cave and approached Yun Xiao... Her delicate body had be warm and fragrant, refreshing to the soul.

    "You did well in the Grand Assembly Arenapetition," Si Ji said, gazing at the stars above, a slight smile ying on her lips.

    "Just this onepliment? No rewards?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Not making you an actual celestial ve is reward enough," Si Ji replied. Facing the bright snow ahead, she stretchedzily, then transformed her pink-white serpentine tail into jade-like feet, stepping onto the soft snow. She was like a fairy dancing on the snow¡ªlively and charming, full of youthful innocencepletely unlike a woman over 1,000 old.

    It was worth noting that Gong Tianjian was actually the same age as her. While Gong Tianjian was old, thin, and shriveled, Si Ji remained as youthful as a blossoming maiden, delicate and graceful.This showed that the Divine Spring Water of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was truly astonishing in maintaining youth and vitality.

    Wan Ji was even older, having given birth to over 100 daughters. If not for her inherently enchanting looks, she would also have a girlish aura. Her skin and figure were identical to those of her daughters.

    This was why the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was known for producing beauties.

    And now, the Harmony Divine Pce had retained its status in the Heavenly Deity Alliance and had severely wounded, even destroyed the new generation of the Dragon Devil n!

    At the same time, Si Ji had achieved the most critical breakthrough and became a Boundless Immortal! Only she knew how powerful she was at this moment.

    It was like clouds parting to reveal the sun! Breaking through darkness, dawn had arrived!

    Moreover, with Yun Xiao helping her sort out her feelings, Si Ji was now hopping and dancing on the snow, unable to suppress her clearughter, happy as a child.

    Her previously cool demeanor wasn''t her true personality. In reality, since she''d secluded herself from the outside world, her heart was simpler and retained a childlike innocence.

    Among the Three Divas, Si Ji with her white hair and pink eyes was the most childlike at heart.

    Seeing her so happy, a slight smile appeared on Yun Xiao''s face.

    Just then, from a nearby mountain ravine, a surge of icy blue mist suddenly rose. It billowed skyward, spreading out and turning the sky over the Extreme Yin Star into a vast blue ocean.

    "A Boundless Power!" Si Ji, who was still dancing joyfully, abruptly stopped. She frowned in that direction and was about to rush over.

    "Don''t go!" Yun Xiao hurriedly said.

    "Why not? The Grand Assembly Arena just ended, and now a Boundless Immortal is appearing!" Si Ji said coldly.

    "That''s the Ice Lineage Diva..." Yun Xiao said, feeling a bit awkward.

    "Yu Ji?" Si Ji stood there, stunned, and asked in confusion, "She''s bing a Boundless Immortal too?"

    "Yes," Yun Xiao confirmed with a nod.

    "How is that possible? Did you help her?" Si Ji asked with a peculiar expression.

    "Yes," Yun Xiao admitted honestly.

    "You scoundrel!"

    Unexpectedly, Si Ji became furious. She instantly appeared before Yun Xiao, grabbed his cor, and demanded angrily, "You... you''re two-timing? What did you do to her!"

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but feel embarrassed and quickly said, "Don''t misunderstand. Her situation was different from yours, and the solution was different too... In short, I''ve only been intimate with you..."

    He hadn''t expected that just moments ago she was telling him to go find Yao Yao, treating their rtionship as a doomed romance. Yet now she was getting jealous over Yu Ji.

    "You''re not lying¡­?" Si Ji bit her lip and asked.

    "Wait until she seeds; then you can ask her," Yun Xiao said candidly.

    Seeing him so straightforward, Si Ji finally calmed down. She gazed at the young man for a long time, gradually bing somewhat lost in thought.

    "I can ept that you helped me in an unconventional way, but Yu Ji''s problem couldn''t be solved by ordinary means. No wonder she''s been protecting you so much. How exactly did you do it?" she asked deeply.

    "That''s a long story!" Yun Xiao replied.

    "Then take your time and tell me!" Si Ji said, exasperated.

    Yun Xiao realized that as she grew more familiar with him, she was starting to act like a wild and domineering girlfriend.

    "The Ancestor Immortal Grotto is about to open; I need to hurry and participate. Yu Ji will probably need some more time. Why don''t you wait until she seeds, then hear it from her? Besides, you don''t really believe me anyway," Yun Xiao said.

    As Yun Xiao spoke, the Personal Pledges he''d collected from other disciples began flying back into the Grand Assembly Arena''s celestial formation.

    This signified that thepetition in the Grand Assembly Arena hadpletely concluded. Disciples from various Taiyi Sourcecores were now leaving the arena.

    "Alright!" Si Ji understood how important exploring the Ancestor Immortal Grotto was for individuals. The bigger the stage, the better it suited this mysterious guy to showcase his abilities.

    "But you''re not in the Fifth Baptism Realm. Can you even enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto?"

    Just as Si Ji finished speaking, a ck iron token shot over from afar at an astonishing speed. But in the final moment, it gentlynded in Yun Xiao''s palm.

    The token was made of an unknown material with an ancient, simple design. The front was engraved with the words <em>Ancestor Immortal</em> and the back bore the name <em>Yun Xiao</em>, prefixed by Heavenly <em>Deity Ster River</em>.

    "Ancestor Immortal Token." Seeing the ck iron token, Si Ji immediately understood.

    Whether one could enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto was determined by this Ancestor Immortal Token.

    "Who gives these out? Who distributes them?" Yun Xiao casually asked, holding the token.

    He didn''t know why he qualified, but having it was enough.

    "They fly out from the Ancestor Immortal Grotto itself. No one in the Samsara Gxy can control it. The existence of these tokens is one of the Samsara Gxy''s greatest mysteries," Si Ji said calmly.

    "All mysteries are just tricks yed by stronger beings," Yun Xiao remarked.

    "I agree with you. There are indeed many inexplicable aspects about the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. After your battle is over, I n to find time to explore it myself," Si Ji said.

    "You should probably wait until your Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is safe and sound," Yun Xiao said with a smile.

    As for the secrets of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, he nned to enter first; perhaps he''d figure them out before she did.

    "Safe and sound..." Hearing this, Si Ji''s pink eyes grew cold. She said icily, "Now that the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm has retained its status in the Heavenly Deity Alliance, protected by its ironws, and with Yu Ji and me as two Boundless Immortals, if the Southern Divine Dragon Realm still wants to cause trouble, they deserve death! From now on, no one can shake the millennia-old legacy of the Harmony Divine Pce!"

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help butugh. "You''re being too reserved. Be bolder¡ªyou are a Boundless Immortal, after all."

    "Then... continue to rise further, reaching the status of the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce? That''s quite difficult. Even though we have two Boundless Immortals, sustainability is an issue. In terms of disciples and cultivators, the gap between us and them can''t be bridged in a short time," Si Ji said helplessly.

    "Dream bigger! We should aim to dominate the entire Samsara Gxy and be the overlord of all celestial sects!" Yun Xiao said, suddenly grabbing her shoulders.

    "You... so daring!" Si Ji shuddered, as if recalling the intimate time she''d shared with Yun Xiao in the ice cave. She instinctively felt startled, quickly stepping back a few paces, her chest heaving as she red at Yun Xiao.@@novelbin@@

    For a moment, she didn''t know how to rebuke him. Recalling what Yun Xiao had just said, she remarked, "You''re too optimistic. Not to mention dominating the Samsara Gxy¡ªwith just two Boundless Immortals and insufficient foundation, even dreaming of dominating the Heavenly Deity Ster River is unrealistic. Boundless Immortals will eventually pass away!"

    "Who said we''re relying on you?" Yun Xiao said.

    "Then who?"

    "Me."

    "..." She red at Yun Xiao with her beautiful pink eyes. "I can''t be bothered to listen to your bragging. Hurry up and go meet up with them. I''m looking forward to you continuing to shine in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto."

    "What about you? Don''t wander off; stay close and protect me!" Yun Xiao emphasized.

    With such a powerful Diva, he''d be a fool not to make use of her.

    He needed her protection around the clock!

    "You don''t need to say it; I will naturally ensure your safety," Si Ji said.

    "I don''t need you to protect me for life; a few days will suffice," Yun Xiao replied.

    Si Ji was already ustomed to his arrogance.

    "Get lost." She snorted softly. Her delicate figure slowly faded into the wind and snow, and even Yun Xiao couldn''t see her anymore.

    He knew why she had hidden herself.

    "No one knows she''s be a Boundless Immortal yet. Considering the Dragon Devil n''s ruthless and unreasonable nature¡­ on my way to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, there''s a hundred percent chance someone will try to kill me, even if it means breaking the rules! Now, let''s see which big fish will take the bait..."

    After cooperating so many times, Yun Xiao and Si Ji had developed a certain tacit understanding.

 Chapter 942: Prelude to The Ancestor Immortal Grotto!

    "Yun Xiao! Onest reminder, absolutely do not mention anything about what happened between us in front of Yao Yao, or I won''t let you off," Si Ji''s voice echoed faintly in the air.

    "Why?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Are you kidding me? Because I''m your senior!" Si Ji replied, exasperated.

    She had the urge to strangle this little rascal, but there was nothing she could do. Despite his seemingly harmless appearance, she feltpletely outmaneuvered by him.

    This guy had already created so many miracles; what would he do next?

    At the very least, Si Ji herself was quite looking forward to it!

    Back at the Star Nexus, when Yun Xiao returned, the Sea Lineage Diva, Wan Ji, along with her seven daughters¡ªlooking like eight sisters¡ªwere waiting for him.

    In addition, Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei, two peerless beauties by Red Moon standards, were hiding anxiously and worriedly to one side.

    Of course, the most important was Feng Yao, who was holding the Ancestor Immortal Token.She had been very nervous, afraid of entering the Ancestor Immortal Grotto alone. Now that she knew she could go with Yun Xiao, she was naturally overjoyed.

    "Lil Yun!" As soon as Yun Xiao arrived, Feng Yao approached him, looking him up and down. "The Diva didn''t... castrate you, did she?" she asked.

    "How did you know?" Yun Xiao responded in surprise.

    "She really wanted to?" Feng Yao was startled. She had just been casually probing, not expecting there was such a procedure.

    "You didn''t lose it, did you?" She began to panic a bit.

    "Get lost," Yun Xiao red at her. "Stop talking nonsense. Once we''re in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, perform well. It''s just the two of us now."

    "I know. You don''t need to tell me that!!" Feng Yao still didn''t know that Si Ji had be a Boundless Immortal.

    Yun Xiao nced over at Wan Ji and saw her eyes shimmering with faint tears¡ªclearly indicating she already knew.

    Those tears were a mix of relief, joy, and the emotion of surviving a disaster.

    As for the younger ones, they were still unaware.

    Of course, now was not the time to announce it.

    "Let''s go," Wan Ji said gently to the young man. She knew that all of this was because of him.

    In Si Ji''s case, any man would have sufficed. But with Yu Ji''s situation, she understood that it required Yun Xiao''s exceptional uniqueness. His ability to save her daughters also showcased his extraordinary qualities.

    "Diva," Yun Xiao pointed at Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei. "These two can no longer return to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, and they im to have information about the Dragon Devil n''s conspiracy. I''ve promised to protect them. Please help me fulfill this promise and give them a way out."

    Wan Ji understood and, with a faint smile, softly said to Yun Xiao, "Don''t worry. Since we''re already in a life-and-death struggle with the Dragon Devil n, I naturally want to irritate them. Keeping these two Young Dragon Consorts prostrated at your feet is the greatest insult to them; they must be preserved."

    "Ahem." Yun Xiao felt she could have phrased it less bluntly!

    Not far away, Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei heard this and were moved to tears of joy. Unconsciously, the way they looked at Yun Xiao became even more affectionate.

    Anyway, they had already decided to rely on him!

    As for the conspiracy, they could exin it to Wan Ji gradually; there was no need to waste time now.

    Wan Ji then led him and the other women, departing from the Extreme Yin Star together.

    Wherever he went, Yun Xiao was like a lone bird in a sea of blossoms, surrounded by countless beauties¡ªtruly the envy of others.

    In the starry void, Yun Xiao and Wan Ji flew at the forefront.

    Wan Ji''s demeanor had a sense of embracing all rivers into the sea, always giving people a feeling of inclusive warmth, as if she could absorb all negative emotions.

    However, at this moment, besides her excitement, she also felt a bit mncholic.

    "Regarding Yu Ji and Si Ji, I really must thank you. It''s no exaggeration to say that you''ve saved the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm this time..." Wan Ji looked ahead, her tone gentle and slightly trembling.

    "I suppose it''s fate between us; we mutually benefit," Yun Xiao said.

    "Hmm..." Wan Ji nodded with a smile. "If you have any needs in the future, feel free to tell me anytime."

    Yun Xiao certainly had needs; he still required many Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources.

    He was about to ask for them but noticed that Wan Ji seemed preupied, looking a bit sad.

    "Is there something you''d like to say to me?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Wan Ji pursed her lips and smiled helplessly. "It''s nothing major..."

    "Please, go ahead," Yun Xiao said.

    "Alright then!" Wan Ji seemed a bit embarrassed. She gazed into Yun Xiao''s eyes and said, "I know you''re extraordinary... Seeing them achieve their dreams, it''s impossible not to be envious, right? So I still want to ask¡­ Do I still have a chance to be a Boundless Immortal?"

    "Yes, you can!"

    Wan Ji had been prepared for rejection when she asked, never expecting Yun Xiao''s answer to be so straightforward!

    "How is that possible?" Wan Ji waspletely stunned. She shook her head and said, "My situation is different from theirs. My talent is inferior, and I''ve reached the age limit."

    "Who said your talent iscking? You''re the great mother of over 100 daughters. In terms of talent, you''re actually the highest; you just haven''t realized it yourself," Yun Xiao said earnestly.

    "Re-really? Then, what do I need to do?" Wan Ji asked nervously.

    "Well... there''s not enough time now. After we return from the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, I''ll help you adjust slowly," Yun Xiao said.

    "Great, it''s a deal!" Wan Ji bit her lip. She believed in Yun Xiao, and the thought of bing a Boundless Immortal thrilled her as well.

    She nervously asked, "Is there anything I should prepare in advance? I''ll get everything ready."

    Yun Xiao smiled and said, "You just need to be mentally prepared, because during this adjustment process..."

    "Stop!" Wan Ji interrupted him, giving him a gentle re, her cheeks tinged with a hint of red. She said, "I don''t mind at all. I''ve already given birth to over 100 daughters; it''s high time I enjoyed myself. How could I be as coy as Si Ji?"

    "..." Yun Xiao was speechless. He realized she hadpletely misunderstood!

    But through this misunderstanding, he glimpsed her true feelings¡ªit was a beautiful mistake.

    As expected of the Sea Lineage Diva, she was truly epting!

    From the very beginning, she had casually destroyed Yun Xiao''s clothing to take a closer look, showing no reservations. This indicated that among the Three Divas, she was the most open-minded about matters between men and women!

    "This matter is settled then." Afraid he might change his mind, Wan Ji said this and then dropped the topic. Pointing ahead at the mysterious and eerie Ancestor Immortal Grotto, she remarked, "Quite a crowd up ahead!"

    They were nearing their destination.

    They could see that over 10,000 people had already gathered in that direction, and the numbers were still increasing. Most of them were disciples who had just left their Taiyi Sourcecores!

    Of course, most were not participants entering the Ancestor Immortal Grotto but hade to see them off or simply to watch the spectacle.

    There were also some who had left the Grand Assembly Arena early and came here to pick up their talents.

    With so many people, it was bing quite chaotic!

    "Thepetition in the Grand Assembly Arena was a power struggle within the Heavenly Deity Ster River. But once you enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, it''s a battle of honor between the 18 Ster Rivers. Your opponents will be different," Wan Ji said to Yun Xiao, observing the many extraordinary unfamiliar faces ahead.

    "What''s the difference? As long as they''re young people, even if they''re stronger, the gap shouldn''t be too big, right?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "It''s really different." Wan Ji looked ahead thoughtfully and said, "The Samsara Gxy is thend of reincarnation. Most regions are under the jurisdiction of the Six Paths of Reincarnation. However, our Heavenly Deity Ster River happens to lie outside the influence of the Six Paths, so we can''t enter the cycle like they do to undergo multiple reincarnations and re-cultivations!"

    "You mean many of the geniuses from other Ster Rivers aren''t truly young but are old souls who''ve re-cultivated multiple times?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "That''s about right," Wan Ji said. "The top-tier ones are likely reincarnated old souls. Their cultivation is higher, their methods more refined, and their thinking more meticulous. Of course, reincarnation also causes them to lose certain things. Many of them haven''t fully awakened the memories or techniques of their past lives. So, there''s still a distinction when ites to truebat strength against formidable opponents."

    "I see," Yun Xiao replied.

    He had wondered how there could be such a stark difference among the youth of the various Ster Rivers. As it turned out, some participants weren¡¯t truly young. That indeed gave them a significant advantage, especially in the early stages.

    But in theter stages? That was less certain.

    The problem was surviving to theter stages!

    "This time, your performance in the Grand Assembly Arena was so dazzling that when these other Ster River geniuses meet with their elders, they''ll likely be warned to prioritize targeting you. So be extremely cautious!" Wan Ji said with a serious tone.

    "No problem," Yun Xiao nodded.

    It would be challenging. But challenges only made him more excited.

    "Where does our Heavenly Deity Ster River''s younger generation rank among the 18 Ster Rivers?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Wan Ji sighed and said, "This time, I estimate only nine of us hold Ancestor Immortal Tokens. Based on numbers alone, we''re probably at the very bottom... Though we didn¡¯t have to be."

    Originally, with the five Young Dragon Lords, Xiao Ming, Zhao Cann, Blood Weaver, Tang Zhenyan, and others, there could have been more than a dozen participants. That would have put them at least third from the bottom.

    Given that they weren''t in the Six Paths of Reincarnation''s jurisdiction, all of them were genuinely young individuals. Being near the bottom was understandable.

    Moreover, the Heavenly Deity Ster River was fragmented, with internal rivalries weakening their overall strength, unlike the more united Ster Rivers.

    For those other Ster Rivers, the Grand Assembly Arenapetition was just a warm-up. Their real battlefield was the Ancestor Immortal Grotto!

    For them, the game was just beginning.

    "Nine..." Yun Xiao calcted. If Wan Ji thought there were nine, she was probably including Yun Lingchen.

    After all, Yun Lingchen wasn''t significantly injured.

    As for Zhao Cann, there was no way he could participate.

    "Zu Xi and the others are over there, and Yun Lingchen is among them," Wan Ji said, gesturing.

    Yun Xiao followed her gaze and saw arge group of disciples from the Ancestral Land, Elysian Immortal Pce, and other Heavenly Deity Alliance sects in front of the entrance of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. Within the crowd were six Ancestor Immortal Token holders!

    Zu Xi, Mu Xihe, Li Xuan, Qin Feng, Wang Chen... and thest one, a stunning beauty with twin coronas, was indeed Yun Lingchen.@@novelbin@@

    Perhaps even Zu Xi hadn¡¯t expected Yun Lingchen to still have the courage topete after the incident with Yun Xiao. He had already heard rumors about it!

    Whether true or not, he didn''t know.

    Now, Yun Xiao apanied by Feng Yao headed over to join them.

    As they approached the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, the atmosphere grew heavy and oppressive.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts<blockquote>

    <strong>"Stop!" Wan Ji interrupted him, giving him a gentle re, her cheeks tinged with a hint of red. She said, "I don''t mind at all. I''ve already given birth to over 100 daughters; it''s high time I enjoyed myself. How could I be as coy as Si Ji?"</strong>

    <strong>"..." Yun Xiao was speechless. He realized she hadpletely misunderstood!</strong></blockquote></blockquote>

 Chapter 943: Repay a Drop of Blood With Ten Thousandfold Vengeance!

    Somewhere outside the Grand Assembly Arena¡­

    ¡°Haah... Haah...¡±

    Two towering ten-foot-tall Dragon Devils were running with all their might, fleeing into the dark expanse of space ahead.

    They were none other than the two Young Dragon Lords, Long Hao and Long Kun.

    Having left the Grand Assembly Arena and finally escaped that ce of public humiliation, their expressions were filled with suppressed fury, wild rage, deep-seated hatred... and a colossal disgrace that others would relish gossiping about.@@novelbin@@

    ¡°Father!¡± Long Hao stopped in the dim starry expanse, his voice trembling as he shouted into the surroundings, eyes scanning all directions.

    ¡°Father, you must avenge us! Our lives have been ruined!¡± Long Kun wailed miserably, tears welling in his eyes. He slowly knelt in the void, ovee with grief and despair.

    Even now, the empty, stinging, icy sensation between his legs pierced his heart like 1,000 swords. He couldn''t imagine how he could face anyone in the days toe.

    Indeed, with such a great humiliation weighing upon them, living was more painful than death.But they were unwilling to end their own lives!

    ¡°Father, Father...¡±

    The two Young Dragon Lords called out to the pir of their faith; at this moment, only those towering figures could save them.

    Just then, the surrounding starry expanse burst into dazzling gold and crimson light. These two radiant colors seemed to engulf the entire world, carrying the momentum of a dragon devouring heaven and earth.

    This brilliant light brought warmth to Long Hao and Long Kun. They immediately lifted their heads and looked ahead!

    Amidst the dazzling radiance, two majestic figures appeared¡ªmen d in dragon robes, exuding imperial might. One was stern and dignified; the other was fierce and ruthless, embodying the dual facets of an emperor.

    These two towering presences in the cosmos were like zing suns in the hearts of the Young Dragon Lords. In their eyes, their fathers were infinitely grand!

    Their elders, the entire Dragon Devil n... they were the hope for Long Hao and Long Kun to wash away this humiliation and the reason they continued to live!

    "You''re here!¡±

    The two were overjoyed, finally seeing the dawn of vindication.

    Indeed, the Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor had appeared before them.

    Moreover, behind these two Dragon Emperors, Long Hao spotted the figures of the ck, White, and Violet Dragon Emperors... The Southern Divine Dragon Realm had eight Dragon Emperors, collectively known as the Eight Heavenly Divisions Dragon Emperors, and now five had descended here!

    In addition, the two Young Dragon Lords saw, within the shadows behind them, some legendary figures from the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    For instance, a figure shrouded in pitch-ck darkness, even taller than the Dragon Devils, like a dark devil god¡ªthe lord of the Heavenly Devil Divine Altar!

    This was Xiao Ming''s father, known as the War Devil Emperor, named Xiao Zhen¡ªthe strongest devil in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. He was twenty feet tall, twice the height of the Dragon Devil n!

    Clearly, this type of War Devil had long surpassed the realm of humanity and could be considered an entirely different species.

    As for why the Dragon Devil n was still regarded as human, it was because they could almost normally reproduce with ordinary humans. In contrast, unions between humans and devils had a very low chance of producing offspring, and even if they did, the offspring were usually deformed.

    Long Hao knew that this Xiao Zhen, as the War Devil Emperor, had a terrifying reputation in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. In terms of ferocity, he was no less than the Dragon Devil n, and he was a staunch ally of theirs. Long Hao had met him several times.

    "Tang Xiaotian, and even the Mist Emperor are here..." Long Kun suppressed the excitement in his heart as he spoke.

    Tang Xiaotian was the leader of the Thunderme God Star¡ªa stern old man with an obviously fiery temper, considered the most orthodox human among this group.

    As for the Mist Emperor... it was the most powerful demon of the Grieving Spirit Valley.

    Long Kun hadn''t seen it at all; its true form was the Mist of Resentment¡ªan extremely terrifying resentment demon. It was formless and omnipresent; its resentment could envelop an entire Celestial Sourcecore. In terms of sheer size, it was undoubtedly thergest entity in the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    Long Kun surmised the presence of the Mist Emperor because he sensed a suffocating dampness in the surrounding air. It was said that feeling meant the Mist Emperor was already invading one''s body.

    Long Hao and Long Kun vaguely heard faint sobbing sounds, which were irond proof of the Mist Emperor''s presence. These cries could plunge people into deep depression, leading to collective suicide.

    ording to legend, the Mist Emperor was formed from the overflow of despair, eventually coalescing into a demon. It possessed infinite potential; the more miserable the world, the more resentment and sorrow in people''s hearts, the stronger the Mist Emperor became.

    Given this trait, it was clear why Grieving Spirit Valley had allied with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm was the challenger of the Heavenly Deity Ster River''s order. The emergence of a challenger meant that power would inevitably reshuffle, and the process of reshuffling was one of catastrophe.

    Seeing these legendary figures all appearing at the edge of the Grand Assembly Arena, Long Hao and Long Kun couldn''t help but wonder¡ªwas there any need to ask what they intended to do by acting alone?

    "We greet the Dragon Emperors! Greetings to all the esteemed seniors!"

    The two hurriedly prostrated themselves, their eyes bloodshot and filled with uncontroble hatred, tears of blood streaming down.

    "Please, we beg you to seek justice for us and for our fallen brothers..." Long Kun''s voice was hoarse, and as he spoke, bloody tears streamed down his face.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor gazed at them. Seeing their once proud sons now in such a miserable state, their eyes appeared calm, but inside they were filled with a storm of murderous intent.

    "You''ve suffered enough. Leave the rest to us," the Golden Dragon Emperor said solemnly.

    "Life''s setbacks, once ovee, lead to even greater glory," added the Blood Dragon Emperor.

    Indeed, as long as they could disregard the shame of their emasction, continuing their piging and plundering wouldn''t be an issue.

    "Understood!"

    Long Hao and Long Kun nodded deeply, mes of vengeance flickering in their eyes. They had been eagerly awaiting this moment. The time for revenge hade! They bowed and stepped aside, clearing a path for their elders.

    From their sons'' grief and misery, the elders brewed an even colder fury.

    "Great Dream Lord, since you''re here, please show yourself," the Golden Dragon Emperor suddenly addressed the empty space ahead.

    As soon as he finished speaking, a graceful figure shrouded in a ck robe appeared¡ªit was none other than the Great Dream Lord of the Nine Yin Soul Sea!

    In terms of status, she was slightly below the others present, but she was at least in the Eighth Baptism Realm.

    There was inherent conflict between the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Nine Yin Soul Sea.

    After the ck-robed woman appeared, she spoke calmly, "We gather today for one thing. For this, past grudges can be temporarily set aside."

    "Agreed! Wee!" the Golden Dragon Emperor replied.

    "Seems the Ancestral Landcks loyalty, sending the Great Dream Lord alone?" Tang Xiaotian sneered.

    The Great Dream Lord shot him a cold nce, unwilling to respond.

    But the Blood Dragon Emperor smiled faintly and said, "This only makes it clearer who will shape the future of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. So, if the Nine Yin Soul Sea is willing, we can not only set aside past grievances but also reconcile our differences and move forward together toward a shared ideal."

    "Let''s kill that scoundrel first," the Great Dream Lord said.

    "Agreed!"

    The Dragon Emperors exchanged nces, understanding each other''s intentions.

    In the art of alliance and strategy, flexibility in shifting between friends and foes was key.

    For now, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm didn''t need too many enemies; rather, they needed more allies.

    And at any given time, having one enemy was enough.

    Today, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm had only one enemy, the Harmony Divine Pce of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm!

    To take down this enemy, the entire world could be allies of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm...

    "Father!"

    As the nine great powers of the Heavenly Deity Ster River were about to take action personally, Long Hao couldn''t help but call out to his father.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor turned to look at him.

    "If possible, don''t kill those two wenches; bring them back to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. I want to make her regret evering into this world!" Long Hao gritted his teeth, his words dripping with venom.

    "Yes!" Long Kun echoed.

    The Golden Dragon Emperor pressed his lips together and finally said, "Rest assured, in our Southern Divine Dragon Realm, we always repay a drop of blood with ten thousandfold vengeance."

 Chapter 944: Hes Mine!

    Near the entrance of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, in a short span of time, nearly 100,000 disciples from the Samsara Gxy had gathered here from the Grand Assembly Arena!

    They were close by and arrived swiftly.

    Most of the disciples stood at a distance, gazing enviously at those super-geniuses holding the Ancestor Immortal Token, who were about to embark on the pinnacle journey representing the highest level of the Samsara Gxy!

    The challenge of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto was not just apetition but also an opportunity. Many had previously obtained treasures within the pce, soaring to new heights, bing legendary figures in the history of the Samsara Gxy, and even ascending to the Fourth Dao Tribtion!

    18 Ster Rivers, teeming with talent¡ªwho would emerge supreme?

    The results of the battles in the Grand Assembly Arena across the 18 Ster Rivers were also spreading among the crowd.

    As Wan Ji had mentioned, the bizarre events in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region were the most sensational among the 18 Ster Rivers and were naturally the hottest topic at the moment. Consequently, Yun Xiao and Feng Yao had garnered considerable attention.

    A young Immortal, decisive and ruthless; and a charming devil girl, captivating all beings¡­ The two represented the rtively modest Harmony Divine Pce. Yet, they continuously challenged the major powers of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, eventually even unifying it in the Grand Assembly Arena...

    Amidst the attentive gazes, there was admiration but even more wariness and scrutiny, especially from some reincarnators, whose gazes undoubtedly held different intentions.For reincarnators, anything abnormal was often due to extraordinary treasures beyond this realm, and the existence of such treasures could incite immense greed.

    So although everything seemed harmonious at the moment, a dark vortex was already forming around Yun Xiao and Feng Yao. In the shadows, countless venomous snakes stretched their necks, eager to strike.

    "Yun Xiao." Zu Xi approached with his allies to offer congrattions.

    "And this must be Feng Yao? Truly a peerless beauty, unmatched in the world." As a woman herself, Mu Xihe naturally paid the most attention to other women.

    Originally, she and Yun Lingchen¡ªone intellectual and ethereal, the other adorable and lively¡ªwere both dazzling beauties. However, Feng Yao appeared topletely overshadow them!

    A fiery and wless War Princess with exotic devilish charm, yet without a hint of vulgarity¡ªin many ways, she was perfection itself. To achieve such high-level allure, one needed the bloodline of the Mortal Dust Devil.

    Take Shi Feifei, for example¡ªalso a fiery and alluring woman with top-tier talent. Yet, on this level, she fell shortpared to Feng Yao. She wasn''t vulgar to begin with, but inparison, a hint of it seemed to emerge.

    Coupled with rumors of her being a Boundless Immortal prodigy and possessing the Supreme Yin Cauldron, Feng Yao''s debut among the geniuses drew even more attention than Yun Xiao... After all, there were more men present!

    But it was only natural for men to admire women.

    After exchanging greetings with Zu Xi and the others, Yun Xiao nced back at Yun Lingchen. The girl had her head lowered, her expression somewhat peculiar.

    "So, did you ask them?" Yun Xiao asked with a smile.

    "My father sent me a flying talisman!" Yun Lingchen huffed softly. "Consider yourself lucky for knowing your limits; otherwise, if my grandfather had stepped in, you''d be in big trouble."

    "That''s not called knowing my limits; it''s called not being interested," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "You!" Previously hailed as the number one beauty in the Heavenly Deity Ster River region of the Grand Assembly Arena, Yun Lingchen indeed possessed an exceptionally pure and spirited charm. She had been very confident, but with Feng Yao now by Yun Xiao''s side, her confidence waned.

    "Forget it, I can''t be bothered to talk to a shameless scoundrel like you. If you have the ability, bring glory to the Heavenly Deity Ster River in the uing events! Bullying me doesn''t make you a hero," Yun Lingchen huffed.

    "I have no desire to be a hero; your Senior Brother Zhao is more suited for that," Yun Xiao said.

    Yun Lingchen was exasperated upon hearing this.

    Between her and Zhao Cann, there was definitely no chance anymore¡ªit was Yun Xiao who personally broke them apart and even confiscated the <em>thing</em> that could potentially connect them.

    When they met again earlier, the two were speechless, and Zhao Cann could only shed tears.

    They weren''t that close to begin with; Yun Lingchen found an excuse to leave first to avoid the awkwardness.

    Yet, the one who started it all still had the nerve to bring it up!

    So wicked! Yun Xiao was so utterly wicked! He was handsome on the outside but full of bad intentions!

    "If only he could direct that wickedness toward the geniuses of the other Ster Rivers. We''re the hosts this time in the Heavenly Deity Ster River; we can''t let others bully us too badly," Yun Lingchen thought to herself.

    As a core member of the Elysian Immortal Pce, she felt responsible for upholding the honor of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, which was why she bravely returned to the battlefield.

    Setting aside his character, in terms ofbat strength and methods, Yun Lingchen still trusted Yun Xiao considerably.

    "In that case, we''ll rely on Yun Xiao to lead the way on this journey to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, guiding us mediocre folks through this ancient ce," Zu Xi said, cupping his hands.

    "No need to be modest. Let''s work hard together and fight side by side," Yun Xiao said.

    Zu Xi smiled wryly to himself. "You''ve subdued 300 geniuses with one sword. Compared to you, if we''re not mediocre, what are we? We''re just making up the numbers!"

    "By the way, where''s the other person?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Currently, among the Fifth Baptism Realm disciples representing the Heavenly Deity Ster River who had obtained the Ancestor Immortal Tokens, eight were present.

    At this, Zu Xi shook his head and said, "That Meng Yan from the Nine Yin Soul Sea probably doesn''t wish to join us."

    "So aloof?" Feng Yao said, curling her lips.

    "Everyone has their own ambitions; let it be." Yun Xiao paused and looked toward the vast and enigmatic Ancestor Immortal Grotto shrouded in mist in the distance. "Once everyone is here, we can go in, right?"

    "Should be soon!" Zu Xi nodded. After speaking, he nced at a spot not far behind Yun Xiao, where Wan Ji and her daughters stood. He said, "We envy you; you even have elders seeing you off. Our elders are in the Million Starlight Pce and can''t make it here in a short time."

    Of course, there was no point in them rushing over, because they had to continue watching the disciples'' performances in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto from the Million Starlight Pce.

    So, in previous years, after the juniors finishedpeting in the Grand Assembly Arena and obtained the Ancestor Immortal Tokens, they entered the grotto on their own.

    The ones seeing them off were their young teammates from the previous battle!

    These young people had all been intimidated by Yun Xiao and now only dared to watch from afar.

    As time passed, more and more people gathered outside the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    "Time to enter!" Seeing this, Zu Xi spoke with some excitement. For him, the Ancestor Immortal Grotto was a dream destination, belonging to himself, while the Grand Assembly Arena was seeking honor for his sect.

    They gathered¡ªeight of them¡ªwith Yun Xiao at the lead. This team of less than ten people was at the bottom, which indeed didn''t look good given the Heavenly Deity Ster River was the host this time around.

    But there was nothing they could do¡ªthe other participants had been defeated by Yun Xiao!

    He had personally caused them to be at the bottom.

    At this moment, everyone''s mood was tense, and their attention was all on the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. Once these peak geniuses entered, the crowd would almost entirely shift to the Million Starlight Pce to watch their progress.

    This time, even the Three Divas couldn''t apany them inside.

    The Ancestor Immortal Grotto captivated the attention of hundreds of thousands present!

    "Wait?"

    Just when everyone was mesmerized by the splendor of the grotto, Yun Xiao touched his nose and felt a bit of moisture.

    "Get out of the crowd!" A chillingly cold voice suddenly echoed in his ear.

    It was the voice of Si Ji! Her tone was extremely grave.

    As expected, someone had appeared who, in order to kill Yun Xiao, didn''t hesitate to break the rules of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects!@@novelbin@@

    How many were there?

    In any case, Si Ji was urging them to rush out of the crowd to avoid harming innocent bystanders.

    So, Zu Xi and the others, facing the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, moved forward excitedly.

    But Yun Xiao suddenly grabbed Feng Yao''s hand and retreated, heading toward a less crowded area!

    The moisture at the tip of his nose, the whistling wind by his ears, carrying a demonic power that induced sorrow, pain, and depression... Yun Xiao knew exactly who wielded this power!

    His life motto was to prevent problems before they urred!

    Without hesitation, he and Feng Yao swiftly broke away from the crowd!

    This was a highly unusual move!

    But for those legendary hunters, the arrow was already nocked; no matter how unexpected, they had to release it.

    "Trying to escape?"

    A thunderous roar, like an enraged dragon, echoed in Yun Xiao''s ears, akin to a dam bursting its banks. The ensuing sonic shockwave instantly sted away the people near him!

    Clearly, the attackers didn''t want to harm innocent bystanders.

    "To oppose us, the Dragon Devil n? Even if you had 10,000 lives, your death would not be regretted!"

    An exceedingly cold voice swept across the entire area.

    Such a sudden upheaval, erupting just as they were about to enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, caused a massive shock. The entire crowd was stunned, and hundreds of thousands turned back in disbelief!

    Someone dared to cause trouble during the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects?

    This was the joint assembly of the 18 Ster Rivers¡ªthe grand event of the Samsara Gxy. Who would dare to defy the heavens and cause chaos here?

    Even those in the Million Starlight Pce could see this sudden turn of events!

    Countless pairs of eyes focused in disbelief, speechless at the arrogance of the attackers.

    Who were they?! That wasn''t yet clear!

    However, people could clearly see who their targets were!

    Locked onto by nine beams of divine light were a white-robed youth and a devil girl!

    The two of them, hand in hand, stood in an open area, targeted by destructive divine lights dozens of times more powerful than they were!

    These nine destructive beams were like nine bloodthirsty giant beasts, while these two young people weren''t even rabbits¡ªthey were merely two immobile morsels!

    The disparity was simply a chasm between heaven and earth.

    With such a gap, one beam of divine light would have been enough; why use nine?

    This only proved the attackers'' irreversible and insane determination!

    They wanted a guaranteed kill, leaving no possibility of survival. They had mobilized three times the peak power of the Harmony Divine Pce!

    "It''s the Dragon Emperors of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!"

    "It looks like the War Devil Emperor Xiao Zhen...!"

    "Tang Xiaotian!"

    "And... the Great Dream Lord?"

    Exmations of disbelief and shock rang out one after another.

    Within those nine beams of divine light, one could vaguely see the towering figures of the Dragon Emperors. Each exuded murderous coldness¡ªcruel and ruthless!

    The other four, except for the elusive Mist Emperor, possessed divine might and destructive power almost equal to the five Dragon Emperors!

    This lineup of Eighth Baptism Realm powerhouses practically represented half the strength of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, and these older generation powerhouses hade for a new-generation genius!

    "They''ve gone mad!!"

    Countless people screamed internally, their faces turning pale.

    Yet they couldn''t help but understand the murderous intent of these powerhouses. All of this was brought upon by Yun Xiao himself; his talent truly instilled fear in them. In the path of immortality, such a massive potential future threat¡ªanyone with sense would know that, regardless of the cost, there were things that had to be done!

    In that soul-stirring instant, the nine peak powerhouses unleashed their Eighth Baptism Realm killing moves on defenseless prey almost simultaneously!

    A golden Sword Soul with countless Sword Prisons!

    A crimson Life Sigil surging with a soul shattering sea of blood!

    And various celestial treasures, celestial techniques, and sword techniques that ordinary people couldn''t evenprehend, converging into eight life-ending cmities, instantly shattering the space where Yun Xiao and Feng Yao stood, obliterating it into the void!

    Among them, a mist of water condensed into a giant cocoon beside Feng Yao, clearly intending to protect her but more so to abduct her!

    In an instant, Yun Xiao''s life hung by a thread!

    Feng Yao was trapped!

    At this desperate moment, the only ones people thought could possibly save them were the Three Divas of the Harmony Divine Pce. But only Wan Ji was present, and she was at a distance... Yet, she was protecting her daughters first?

    "Nine legendary masters, shamelesslyunching a killing strike. Even if the Three Divas were protecting him personally, Yun Xiao would be sted into dust!"

    This was the first horrifying thought in the minds of the onlookers.

    Some were shocked, some felt helpless, but those not involved wouldn''t feel too sorrowful, because Yun Xiao had brought this upon himself. If he hadn''t been so ruthless, he wouldn''t have driven the nine powerhouses and five super sects to such decisive action!

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm, Nine Yin Soul Sea, Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, Thunderme God Star... Which of these wasn''t a giant in the Heavenly Deity Ster River?

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm was the uncrowned sovereign!

    This was the longest moment people had ever felt...

    For the five Dragon Emperors, Xiao Zhen, Tang Xiaotian, the Great Dream Lord, and others, it was the same.

    Shrouded in divine radiance, they gazed coldly at the white-robed youth. Their killing moves were enough to obliterate this young man 100,000,000 times, so in their eyes, there was only the indifference of a story that had already ended!

    They were no strangers to killing geniuses, and this wouldn''t be thest time!

    It felt great! No suspense! Watching these arrogant young people meet tragic ends was immensely satisfying.

    But this white-robed youth before them, on the verge of being crushed to dust¡­ why was he smiling?

    The Golden Dragon Emperor, Blood Dragon Emperor, and the others all frowned deeply, their once indifferent expressions now contorted.

    He was a dead man! What was he smiling about? Was he crazy or simply deluded? Was he just scared senseless?

    Clearly, it was a meaningless smile. Yet somehow, the mischievous glint in the youth''s eyes caused these nine supreme powerhouses to feel a sudden chill in their hearts!

    In that fleeting moment of their unease, an absolutely stunning beauty with white hair, pink eyes, and a serpent''s tail appeared out of thin air before the white-robed youth!

    She appeared so abruptly! As if she had always been there. Yet none of the nine powerhouses, including the omnipresent Mist Emperor, had noticed her!

    And the moment she appeared, she wore the same mischievous smile as Yun Xiao!

    It was exactly the same!

    But this time, the smile of this Snow Lineage Diva sent an icy dread deep into the hearts of the nine powerhouses. It was as if the entire world had instantly frozen; the hundreds of thousands of people around them were immobilized, time itself seemed to stand still!

    An unbelievable sense of suffocation enveloped the nine attackers!

    "Si Ji..." All nine silently mouthed her name. In fact, none of them had ever seen her before. Unlike the Sea Lineage Diva, Si Ji was a true recluse¡ªa cultivation fanatic her entire life, never once showing herself publicly.

    And now, her sudden appearance sent shockwaves throughout the entire Samsara Gxy!

    She simply extended her hand and grasped forward!

    The nine lethal attacks were instantly frozen in mid-air. All the Sword Souls, Life Sigils, and celestial treasures trembled with cracking sounds, unable to advance an inch!

    "Listen carefully. He''s mine. Anyone who touches him dies!"

    Her voice was soft. Yet in that instant, it froze the eardrums of the onlookers. Even those in the Million Starlight Pce shuddered!

    At the same time, the nine assants'' minds copsed. Their eyes widened as they eximed in disbelief.

    "Boundless Immortal!" As these words echoed, Si Ji, with an intensely cold gaze, reversed the nine frozen lethal attacks. Transforming them into two torrents of pink and white icy currents, she sted them onto the Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor in an instant!

    The cold currents surged through, and two terrified ice sculptures were formed!

    "Shatter." Si Ji gently parted her cherry-red lips and blew softly.

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! </em>The two ice sculptures copsed instantly...<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 945: Upheaval In the Heavenly Deity Stellar River!

    The Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor! Two towering figures, each ten feet tall, as mighty as titans, bodies covered in dragon scales, with horns reaching the heavens¡­ they were legendary powerhouses and overlords of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    Whether it was the young people present or all the formidable figures from the Samsara Gxy within the Million Starlight Pce, everyone had to show respect upon seeing these two.

    They were the symbols of courage and might in the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    Their fame shook the heavens and earth!

    For such exalted figures to personally step into the fray during the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects to y a genius, only to be instantly in themselves... Such an event was utterly explosive for any audience.

    <em>CRACK! CRACK! </em>As the two disbelieving, stunned, and unwilling ice sculptures shattered into icy powder and scattered, the hundreds of thousands of Samsara Gxy geniuses in front of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto all gasped in astonishment, their tongues practically hanging out in disbelief!

    An attack by the strong was shocking! The strong being countered and in was even more shocking!

    Both events happened in the blink of an eye; people hadn''t even reacted before the situation was decisively settled!

    "The Snow Lineage Diva of Harmony Divine Pce has ascended to be a Boundless Immortal!"Many couldn''t even utter this sentence; it echoed only in their hearts, stuck in their throats, revealing the extreme shock this event caused them.

    "Oh heavens! Oh heavens! Oh heavens!"

    "Those were two Dragon Emperors of the Dragon Devil n at the Eighth Baptism Realm..."

    Utter shock spread from here, sweeping across hundreds of thousands of geniuses, affecting countless spectators in the Million Starlight Pce, and would further ripple throughout the entire Samsara Gxy, bing the most sensational news for millennia!

    No matter how defiant Yun Xiao was, it was still within the realm of the new generation. But this attack and counter-attack between peak powerhouses, happening in an instant, was enough to affect the futurendscape of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

    And in this matter, those bearing the brunt were, of course, the other seven attackers!

    The three remaining Dragon Emperors, War Devil Emperor Xiao Zhen, Mist Emperor, Great Dream Lord, and Tang Xiaotian¡ªthese seven powerhouses, upon witnessing the copse of the Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor, felt as if that fatal blow had struck themselves, leaving them chilled to the bone on the spot...

    Just the mention of a Boundless Immortal revealed their disbelief and extreme fear toward Si Ji.

    Their movements were extremely swift! At the very moment when the Golden and Blood Dragon Emperors fell, the seven of them, almost without consulting each other, turned and fled at their fastest speed!

    Each fled in a different direction!

    Their straightforward and panicked escape fully demonstrated their fear of a Boundless Immortal. No matter how high their status, in the face of death, dignity and pride became meaningless.

    Not crawling and rolling as they fled was alreadymendable!

    Seven beams of divine light fled chaotically; the hundreds of thousands of genius disciples around couldn''t even catch a glimpse of them.

    But in reality, those seven were all heading toward their own forces, especially diving into the crowds of geniuses from other Ster Rivers. At this moment, those crowds became their shields to hide from Si Ji!

    After all, even though Si Ji was a Boundless Immortal, she couldn''t afford to offend other Ster Rivers.

    Their desperate choice to flee was undoubtedly the correct one.

    However, what slightly surprised Yun Xiao was that this beautiful elder sister with flowing white hair didn''t seem intent on pursuing them.

    She remained before Yun Xiao like a towering mountain, safeguarding him and Feng Yao. Her vast and icy aura Boundless Immortal aura swept across tens of thousands of miles of the starry expanse, pressing down so heavily that most people were rendered speechless.

    In no time, the seven attackers had vanished without a trace; no one even came to collect the bodies of the two Dragon Emperors.

    Si Ji acted as if nothing had happened, casually collecting the belongings of the two Dragon Emperors along the way.

    Everything seemed perfectly natural!

    However, the hundreds of thousands of geniuses surrounding them couldn''t calm down for a long time.

    Yun Xiao, Feng Yao, and Si Ji¡ªthe man, woman, and Boundless Immortal¡ªdivinely handsome, stunningly beautiful, and icily elegant¡ªcreated an immense visual impact.

    As for the seven peak powerhouses who had fled, they were already forgotten.

    Especially the geniuses from the Heavenly Deity Ster River¡ªthey understood even better the explosive nature of this upheaval. At this moment, geniuses like Zu Xi and Yun Lingchen, whose families had Boundless Immortals, stared dumbfounded at Si Ji,pletely stunned.

    "The Harmony Divine Pce has produced a Boundless Immortal..."

    "And it''s the youngest Snow Lineage Diva!"

    "Oh heavens, oh heavens..."

    This event was even more sensational than the nine great powerhouses attacking Yun Xiao. Byparison, the reputations of these nine powerhouses plummeted instantly into the abyss, trampled into dust.

    Two Dragon Emperors of the Dragon Devil n were even sted to death!

    Every young mind was buzzing at this moment, unable to grasp the significance of this upheaval!

    Not to mention them, even many elders in the Million Starlight Pce stood like ice sculptures, countless people stunned and motionless.

    Gong Tianjian of the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s Joint Law Enforcement Division had just approached the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen to prevent her from escaping when the nine powerhouses acted.

    She was sneering at the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen!

    At the very moment the nine powerhouses made their move, she let out augh, about to mock the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen. "Your little genius is finished..."

    Before she could finish the sentence, everything Si Ji did was like two ps, harshly smacking her in the face.

    "Ah?" Gong Tianjian instinctively let out a scream, copsing to the ground on the spot. As she looked up at the screen, her eyes were almost popping out of their sockets!

    The Million Starlight Pce was in massive turmoil.

    This was the most chaotic event yet, even more sensational than Yun Xiao suppressing 300 geniuses with a single sword.

    "Ahhh!" Gong Tianjian stared fixedly, watching as the Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor¡ªwhom she was most familiar with¡ªshattered into dust before her eyes. It felt as if her internal organs were crushed. With blood surging upward, she spat out a mouthful of dark blood.

    Her incredulous scream was instantly drowned out by the overwhelming roar of astonished cries, like a tsunami sweeping over!

    The words <em>Boundless Immortal</em> were like giant swords piercing Gong Tianjian, pinning her to the ground. Her whole body trembled violently, tears streaming uncontrobly!

    Just moments ago, she was basking in smugness, mocking Yun Xiao''s fate, believing that the cruel suppression of reality was inevitable, ridiculing the women of the Harmony Divine Pce as too naive for unting such a precious genius.

    But now, her emotions plummeted from the heavens to hell. It felt as if her face had been pped swollen, nearly causing her to lose control.

    In contrast, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen beside her soared from the abyss to the stars in an instant. She burst into tears¡ªbut they were tears of excitement and joy¡ªand jumped up like a child.

    At this moment, she finally understood the trust the Three Divas ced in Yun Xiao and realized their courage. This reality allowed her to vent the frustrations she had umted over years of setbacks in the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s Joint Law Enforcement Division.

    At that moment, the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queenughed again.

    She wept openly, disregarding any restraint orposure, throwing her head back in heartyughter, revealing a mouthful of snow-white teeth.

    Herughter and Gong Tianjian''s wretched cries formed a stark contrast at that moment.

    The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen was only about 300 years younger than Gong Tianjian. But in terms of demeanor and appearance, one was a vicious old crone, while the other was youthful and beautiful, with the tight figure of a young girl¡ªthe contrast was even more striking!

    This scene was deeply etched into the memories of many onlookers.

    In truth, how many people in the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River truly supported the Southern Divine Dragon Realm?

    It was all because of their hegemony!

    Under their dominance, so-called civilization was just makeup on the faces of the powerful. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm used this to draw in too many celestial sects. Only when this hegemony copsed would people see how many trueckeys there were in this so-called civilized world.@@novelbin@@

    Everything Yun Xiao did in the Grand Assembly Arena was akin to a small-scale simtion of challenging hegemony. He went all out¡ªnot only did he lead the Harmony Divine Pce in annihting the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and its fewckeys, but he also won over the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River, instantly bing the person with the most friends!

    People always thought that the new generation''s battles were just games, not to be taken seriously¡ªnothing harmful, easily dismissed with augh. In reality, for the Harmony Divine Pce, things remained cruel. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm still held supreme dominance, even daring to interfere directly in the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, killing people in front of the other 17 Ster Rivers!

    And the result? Now, the Snow Lineage Diva revealed her status as a Boundless Immortal¡ªa supreme figure, the super deterrent of a super sect. With this deterrent unleashed, she directly killed two Dragon Emperors!

    This was no longer a game of the younger generation!

    This was a major shift in the grand scheme of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!

 Chapter 946: Ascending The Heavens Once More!

    The Heavenly Monarchs and Empyrean Emperors of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, along with the sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, all gasped in shock at the unfolding scene. Their nces exchanged told of a drastic shift in their mindset!

    Previously, they were staunch supporters of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    Now, they seemed to have adopted a wait-and-see approach!

    This shift mirrored the psychological changes among figures like Bai Lu and Zu Wei at the Grand Assembly Arena.

    Such was the power of confidence!@@novelbin@@

    Confidence was more precious than anything!

    As the only supporter of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm who had not left the scene, Gong Tianjian understood all this deeply.

    And the worst part? Following this incident, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, and its followers, not only suffered a loss of their Dragon Emperors and reputation but would also face the consequences of disrupting the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects and provoking the Samsara Gxy Federation.

    The Samsara Gxy Federation, formed by the 18 Ster Rivers within the Samsara Gxy, aimed to enhancemunication, settle disputes, and foster cooperation. The Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was a major event under its auspices, intended to facilitate exchanges and fairpetition among the youth.As a key host member, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s act of attempting to assassinate a talented individual on this stage was a scandal that could make the other 17 Ster Rivers scoff.

    This was a ssic case of stealing chickens only to lose the rice.

    Gong Tianjian was on the verge of exploding.

    At that moment, within the Million Starlight Pce, a ck radiance appeared above the seating area of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    A solemn man in ck, both cool and authoritative, appeared.

    "Empyrean Emperor Chen!"

    Many powerful individuals from the Ancestral Land''s side stood up, including the slightly pale-faced Empyrean Emperor Mu, indicating that Empyrean Emperor Chen''s status was even higher.

    All the members from other celestial sects also stood.

    Everyone present recognized Empyrean Emperor Chen!

    His name was Zu Xinchen, a direct descendant of the Ancestral Land and the father of Zu Xi and Zu Wei.

    However, his main role was within the Samsara Gxy Federation, serving as one of the spokespersons for the Heavenly Deity Ster River. This Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects wasrgely orchestrated by him.

    Upon his arrival, Empyrean Emperor Chen nced around and noticed no one from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    He then dered sternly, ¡°The Southern Divine Dragon Realm, Nine Yin Soul Sea, Heavenly Devil Divine Altar, Grieving Spirit Valley, and Thunderme God Star¡­ these five sects have openly challenged the order of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, severely viting the Samsara Gxy Federation¡¯s covenant, causing extremely adverse effects!

    "The Samsara Gxy Federation has decided to dy the entry of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto for half a day, ordering the aforementioned five sects'' rted personnel to immediately proceed to the Samsara Gxy Federation for exnation!¡±

    With no members of the five sects present, they had all exited, but the decree was sure to reach them immediately.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm aspired to rise within the Heavenly Deity Ster River, needing to win over many in the vast Samsara Gxy. Could they afford to defy a decree from the Samsara Gxy Federation?

    Empyrean Emperor Mu remarked coolly, ¡°Killing results in one type of consequence, but failing to kill while also suffering losses and facing an emerging Boundless Immortal is apletely different level of oue. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm is definitely in trouble now.¡±

    Gong Tianjian gritted her teeth, saying, ¡°It won¡¯t be too severe. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡¯s supporters hold high positions within the Samsara Gxy Federation. At most, they''ll just go through the motions¡­¡±

    ¡°But no matter how high their position, they must act ording to the rules. Besides, everything is about give and take. Without a sure win, who would support you?¡± After saying this with a coldugh, Empyrean Emperor Mupletely distanced himself from Gong Tianjian and returned to the Ancestral Land''s camp.

    After announcing the decree, Empyrean Emperor Chen promptly left.

    The highest-ranking individual remaining was Yun Sheng from the Elysian Immortal Pce, who sat solemnly on his seat, gazing intently at Si Ji on the screen.

    ¡°I''ve met Wan Ji, but I haven''t seen Si Ji before. I never expected such a heaven defying talent to surpass me¡­¡±

    Yun Sheng could only feel envy.

    He nced at the flying talisman in his hand, sent by his own daughter, advising him against opposing the Harmony Divine Pce and to adopt a wait-and-see approach... which left him somewhat bemused.

    ¡°This kid''s really got guts¡­ But I suppose he''s been holding onto this trump card from the start.¡±

    How significant was the deterrent of a Boundless Immortal? Yun Sheng understood perfectly!

    From the Ancestral Land to the Elysian Immortal Pce, both sects had spent years pouring all their resources and efforts into ensuring a continuous lineage of Boundless Immortals, maintaining their supreme status by ensuring smooth transitions. Only by securing this session could they continue to dominate over other sects of the Heavenly Deity Alliance.

    In times when the lineage was broken, even these two long-standing sects had to choose to retract and avoid conflicts.

    Now, with the emergence of a fourth sect boasting a Boundless Immortal¡ªwith Si Ji presiding being the youngest among the four Boundless Immortals¡ªthe Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s prospects of crushing the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm had greatly diminished.

    Previously, people thought that no matter how vigorously Yun Xiao fought, once the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects ended, it would be time for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s army to tten the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm.

    Now, a huge wrench appeared in that n!

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s follow her advice and observe how things unfold.¡± Yun Sheng turned around and exchanged nces with the other elders of the Elysian Immortal Pce, deliberately avoiding Gong Tianjian¡¯s gaze.

    "Yun Sheng, what will the exnation to the Samsara Gxy Federation look like? Could the Dragon Ancestor personally attend?" an elder asked.

    "With two Dragon Emperors dead and the incident being so impactful, the Dragon Ancestor definitely needs to step in to settle things," Yun Sheng replied.

    "Can it be settled, though?" the elder inquired.

    "Matters at the Samsara Gxy Federation are matters of interest. As long as concessions are made, there''s nothing that can''t be settled. The Harmony Divine Pce doesn¡¯t have much say there; that¡¯s a disadvantage. Regardless of the oue, the federation won¡¯t make it public," Yun Sheng paused, "But you must understand, having a Boundless Immortal, especially such a young one, changes things fundamentally. At the very least, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm has suffered a severe blow this time, losing two <em>front teeth</em> and face."

    "I understand."

    Clearly, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm wasn¡¯t going to copse so easily. They still retained theirbat strength, but with the emergence of a Boundless Immortal on the opposing side and not entering the Heavenly Deity Alliance, they had enough trouble to deal with.

    "Just remember one thing, for us at the Elysian Immortal Pce, this is the best scenario. Whom we support next depends on who brings more surprises," Yun Sheng said softly, then closed his eyes, gently tapping his fingers on the armrest.

    "Your little girl is impressive," the elder remarked, smiling as he watched Yun Lingchen on the screen.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    At this moment, the decree from the Samsara Gxy Federation requiring the five great sects of the Heavenly Deity Ster River to exin themselves had reached the entrance of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    The Ancestor Immortal Grottopetition was dyed for half a day, presumably to thoroughly resolve this matter.

    When this news spread, the hundreds of thousands of talents erupted in cheers!

    Most were talents from other Ster Rivers, who cared little for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. As the new generation, they deeply disapproved of the older generation trying to assassinate them. Except for a few directpetitors, most were likely to side with Yun Xiao.

    The cheering was constant.

    It was virtually a celebration of victory.

    At Wan Ji''s side, she and her daughters were also teary-eyed, feeling a sense of vindication after being undervalued for centuries!

    "Mother, will the Samsara Gxy Federation judge the Southern Divine Dragon Realm harshly and make them pay a heavy price?" Hai Qing asked excitedly.

    "What are you thinking? Did they invite us to go?" Wan Ji rolled her eyes.

    "No!" the daughters nodded.

    "A trial where the victims aren''t present is hardly a trial; it''s just a reprimand, a few harsh words at most. It won¡¯t address the root of the issue," Wan Ji was very clear about this.

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm had been managing connections and rallying support both within and beyond the Heavenly Deity Ster River, using diplomacy and alliances masterfully. Meanwhile, the Harmony Divine Pce remained a secluded sect, with no one at the Samsara Gxy Federation to speak for them.

    "But still, this is a win for us!"

    Yun Xiao wasn''t assassinated, Feng Yao wasn''t captured, and the Harmony Divine Pce had gained a Boundless Immortal!

    When this news reached the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, it would surely cause a stir!

    Yet, Yun Xiao remained calm, having been prepared for this oue. He was even a bit dissatisfied.

    "Why are you being merciful?" he asked, watching Si Ji''s retreating figure.

    Si Ji turned around, ring at him, "What do you mean by that?"

    "Only two? With such a perfect opportunity, if it were me, I wouldn¡¯t let a single one of the nine escape. They''d all die right here," Yun Xiao grumbled.

    Si Ji rolled her eyes and scoffed, "I''m not you!"

    Yun Xiao, ever wild, was about to berate her further. He truly felt it was a loss, such a golden opportunity, even if it meant idental casualties, they should have been eliminated!

    Just as he was about to scold her, he noticed Si Ji looking down, herplexion somewhat off.

    "Huh?"

    He stepped closer, studying her face. Her eyes seemed clouded with a cold mist.

    Yun Xiao paused, puzzled, "What¡¯s going on? Why is there still spiritual yin energy?"

    Si Ji bit her lip, "I might have broken through too quickly. My cultivation still isn''t stable. When I acted, it produced some residue that started to corrode my tribtion power."

    No wonder she stopped after killing just two!

    Yun Xiao sensed it and frowned, "Indeed, it¡¯s quite a lot. It¡¯s nearly back to the highest level again. If this continues, I''m afraid your cultivation might regress¡­"

    "Yes¡­" Si Ji lowered her head, clearly struggling. She must have been incredibly frustrated internally.

    She thought she had soared high, but why were there still problems?

    "This can''t go on like this. During my time in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, I''ll need you to maintain the situation," Yun Xiao said.

    "I can¡¯t help this!" Si Ji responded irritably, her mood still sour despite having killed two Dragon Emperors.

    "You might not have a way, but I do," Yun Xiao said with clear eyes.

    "What¡­ what are you nning?" Si Ji asked, her voice trembling.

    She had thought that chapter of disgrace was over, never to be revisited. And now¡­ she admitted, her mind was in turmoil, partly resistant, yet partly expectant.

    "Are you being coy again? I¡¯m telling you, once you¡¯ve opened this door, you can¡¯t close it again. What bird doesn¡¯t return to its nest? You want to shut the door on me? That¡¯s backward thinking. If you don¡¯t open the door, where else can I feel the warmth of home?" Yun Xiao dered.

    "What are you saying! Scoundrel!" Si Ji spoke with difficulty, her face flushing red.

    "Stop pretending, you enjoyed it thoroughly. We still have half a day; let¡¯s find a ce to ascend to the heavens in a spiral!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 947: Half-a-Day Interlude

    In the heart of a Taiyi Sourcecore shrouded in mist and dense forest, a persistently soft voice echoed, intive and dreamlike, enchanting all who heard it. It was not hysterical, but rather filled with a deep, enduring emotion that touched on profound aspects of the divine, reaching both extremes.

    Whether it was the turbulent storms of a dragon ascending to heaven or the tender moments of deep affection, each experience was essential in conjuring raw, primal emotions that led to the ultimate ascension of the soul.

    The forest, fog, whispers, and dreamlike murmurs resembled a gentle, continuous spring rain, soaking deep into the bones, silently nourishing everything around.

    After a long while, when the downpour reached its peak, it suddenly ceased. Yet, the rich scent of emotion lingered in the mist, filling the air.

    Deep within the fog, Yun Xiao gazed at the flowing white hair in his arms, ying with the pale pink scales wrapped around the body, wearing a light smile, seemingly at ease.

    "Good snake!"

    The snake possessed a unique talent; its body was incredibly flexible, and the beauty of it was indescribable, so much so that many could spend their lives never truly understanding it.

    After that moment of intimacy, the umted spiritual yin energy within the Diva dissipatedpletely, returning her to her pure and powerful state, wless once more.

    As for whether the spiritual yin energy would reappear, Yun Xiao had no idea. He rather hoped it did!After all, as the chaste Diva of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, Si Ji would struggle to hide her shame and join Yun Xiao on another amorous escapade without a good reason.

    "Well, maybe not necessarily¡­" Yun Xiao¡¯s lightly chuckled.

    When Si Ji had rushed to the Taiyi Sourcecore, she sternly reminded herself to only use the method of their first meeting to rid herself of the spiritual yin energy.

    Yun Xiao agreed. But what followed was the Snow Lineage Diva, in her quietness, taking charge of everything, with him hardly needing to act, allowing her to unleash herself.

    So, at that point, why bother keeping up appearances?

    Stepping beyond this point, Yun Xiao knew that he no longer needed the excuse of the spiritual yin energy; things would naturally progress.

    Now that the channel was formed, it would be ever-flowing; Si Ji, half-awake, rested in his arms, quietly enjoying the soft wind, snow, and the sight of the bamboo forest in the valley¡­ Such tranquility was captivating, making one wish to pause time forever at this moment.

    Despite his yearning for tranquility, Yun Xiao couldn''t afford to indulge; he had to venture to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto to rescue Zhao Xuanran.

    After all, no matter how many enduring beauties there were in the world, Zhao Xuanran would always be the one who introduced him to the path of immortality. Her skills were genuine and undeniable, and now, pregnant, Yun Xiao couldn''t let her wait any longer.

    That included dealing with the third Primordial Coffin!

    Yun Xiao was also anticipating what sort of thing he''d receive after the Heaven Burial Sword Soul and Prison Warden Sigil.

    Currently, Moon Fairy was quietly building up his strength in the Six Paths of Reincarnation, waiting to seize the third Dao Source..

    "Si Ji, it''s time to go," Yun Xiao said gently, patting the pale pink serpent scales, whispering in her ear.@@novelbin@@

    "Mmm... I don''t want to go," Si Ji murmured without opening her eyes, her long eyshes trembling slightly, a blush like peach blossoms on her cheeks.

    "We''re almost out of time; I need to enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto," Yun Xiao said, caught betweenughter and tears.

    From her haughty solitude, believing she wouldn''tpete with the younger Feng Yao for a man, to now seeming still lost in a dream, pretending to have forgotten everything... it was all within a day''s difference.

    At the mention of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, Si Ji frowned slightly, slowly opened her eyes, humphed, and stood up. Her flowing pale white dress gathered into a gown around her, covering her ethereal beauty.

    Once dressed, her demeanor shifted dramatically; she lifted her chin slightly, exuding a cold, lofty aura that seemed untouchable, like the distant moon.

    "Let''s go," she said, clearly avoiding the intimacy of their previous moment, deliberately downying it. In public, she remained the Diva, elder, and guide for Yun Xiao.

    To this, Yun Xiao could only smile. No matter how affectionate she was moments ago; once outside, she maintained her dignity, wary of others realizing she was involved with someone younger.

    "Keep up."

    She adopted an elder''s tone with Yun Xiao, her gown swirling as she led him towards the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    The Samsara Gxy Federation had dyed entry to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto by half a day to judge the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and its allies, which fortunately provided her with a chance to dissolve the spiritual yin energy once more.

    "During our time in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, try to avoid acting to prevent any resurgence of the spiritual yin energy," Yun Xiao reminded as he followed.

    "Do you think I don''t know?" Si Ji replied coldly. "Many people only need to act once in their lifetime. Where do you see the strongest constantly fighting? That''s child''s y."

    "Yes, yes, you''re formidable," Yun Xiao managed to say, barely holding back augh, somewhat overwhelmed by her change of demeanor¡ªso tender just moments ago, and now fully assertive.

    But he didn''t mind; this was what made her endearing.

    Si Ji didn''t bother to respond further.

    As the two made their way back to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, the hundreds of thousands of people outside were still there, waiting patiently¡ªit had only been half a day, after all.

    Among everyone, only Wan Ji knew what Yun Xiao and Si Ji had been up to during their half-day absence. Even Feng Yao was unaware.

    Upon their quiet return, they blended into the crowd, where all eyes were focused on the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, allowing them to go unnoticed.

    Feng Yao, observing them, noted the cool, serious, and lofty demeanor of the Snow Lineage Diva and didn''t think much of it.

    In contrast, Wan Ji assessed Si Ji with a more probing look and quipped softly, "Going at it for half a day, huh? Hope you didn¡¯t strain your throat this time."

    "Shut up," Si Ji snapped back, both embarrassed and angry, struggling to ept the situation. "If you want, go ask him yourself."

    "You said it, remember? No jealousy allowed when the timees," Wan Ji replied with a sly smile.

    Si Ji was baffled. She had always thought that everyone in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm maintained a certain dignity like hers; her involvement with Yun Xiao had been under duress, unlike Wan Ji, who seemed shamelessly forward.

    "How can you forget the legacy of the two founders of the Harmony Divine Pce..." Si Ji retorted, annoyed.

    "You dare to bring them up?" Wan Ji responded with a quietugh.

    Si Ji red at her, seething, and finally said, "Just do as you please!"

    "It¡¯s none of your concern," Wan Ji retorted.

    Their exchange felt like a moment from another lifetime. They were supposed to be the purest symbols in the hearts of all women from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm. Yet here they were, squabbling over a young man, which was rather embarrassing.

    "By the way, did the verdicte out?" Si Ji changed the subject, trying to ease the awkwardness.

    "They haven¡¯t announced anything specific, just that there will be stern punishment. As for the details, we don¡¯t know yet," Wan Ji replied with a coldugh.

    Si Ji¡¯s expression turned frosty. "They''re all the same, none of them are good!"

    "Don''t say that; everyone has their own interests. You can¡¯t dismiss everyone with one stroke. Right now, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm still has wide connections and many friends. We couldn¡¯tpare before, but with you, we at least have a foot in the door. If we y our cards right, we can win some people over. It¡¯s not like everyone in the Samsara Gxy is on their side¡­ After all, even the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce aren¡¯t openly supporting the Dragon Devil n, right?" Wan Ji spoke earnestly.

    "I hope so!" Si Ji was thoroughly disgusted with these intrigues. She was a loner, and her path of immortality was simple¡ªher world was supposed to be remote and solitary, not entangled in these worldlyplications.

    "Even though the Samsara Gxy Federation might not impose any real punishment on the Southern Divine Dragon Realm this time, at least you¡¯ve killed their Dragon Emperors and suppressed them, tarnishing their reputation. That should make them tread more carefully from now on," Wan Ji asserted firmly.

 Chapter 948: 18 Representatives

    "Brutal ns like the Dragon Devil n must bepletely crushed, or they''ll never cease their disturbances. This loss will only fuel their rage even more. We must be wary of their retaliation next," Si Ji said coldly.

    "Indeed, I''ve heard that the news has reached the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and has incited universal outrage there. The mood for war is escting, and they are resolved to fight us to the death. Do you know what they are boldly iming now?" Wan Ji asked, her eyes zing with anger as she lowered her head.

    "Tell me," Si Ji said.

    "They are iming that after this battle, they won''t allow a single empty space to remain unfilled in the stomachs of the people from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm..."

    Upon hearing this, Si Ji clenched her fists so tightly that her knuckles made a thunderous noise, and fury swirled in her eyes.

    Could these Dragon Devil n men be any more arrogant, disgusting, and brutal?

    "We''ll see about that when the timees," Wan Ji said coldly.

    Si Ji alone might not have strong convictions and could at most protect herself. But now in the Harmony Divine Pce, it wasn''t just Si Ji!

    Yu Ji was also in the middle of a critical breakthrough, unnoticed by others on the Extreme Yin Star, taking the most important step of her life alone!"Wan Ji, give Yun Xiao two Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources. I''ve run out," Si Ji suddenly said.

    "Are you sure?" Wan Ji paused for a moment and nced at Yun Xiao, who was looking their way.

    "Give them to him; he''s a monster, the future of our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm is up to him," Si Ji dered.

    "Do you trust him that much?" Wan Ji eximed in surprise, given that Si Ji was previously the one who thought least of Yun Xiao, "Is this what being conquered feels like?"

    "Stop that. Once you get to know him better, you''ll understand," Si Ji retorted.

    "Get to know him better, huh?" Wan Ji teased seductively.

    Si Ji faltered, hastily rifying, "I didn¡¯t mean it that way! Why is your mind always on such things?"

    "You''re well-fed, so of course you''re all philosophical now," Wan Ji snorted, then walked over to Yun Xiao.

    Under Si Ji¡¯s displeased gaze, she chatted andughed with Yun Xiao, giving him two Burying Heaven grade Cmity Sources¡ªtreasures of the Samsara Gxy that only they could afford to give away so casually.

    With the two Cmity Sources, Yun Xiao¡¯s preparations for the battle at the Ancestor Immortal Grotto wereplete.

    "Half a day has passed."

    His eyes slightly narrowed as he looked toward the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    It was time to see who would represent the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects and give a definite answer.

    Just then, 18 dazzling divine lights descended from the sky, appearing suddenly before the gathered crowd!

    Each beam of light materialized into a peak powerhouse, each an esteemed and vast elder with an awe-inspiring aura and profound legacy!

    Among them, Wan Ji recognized only one person, it was Empyyrean Emperor Chen, or rather Zu Xinchen, d in a ck robe.

    "Father!"

    Zu Xi and Zu Wei, too, hadn''t seen their father in a long time and were somewhat excited.

    Zu Xinchen had been serving at the Samsra Gxy Federation and indeed, had little time to return.

    Of the 18 divine lights, one was Empyrean Emperor Chen, and the identities of the other 17 were clear!

    Evidently, they each came from one of the Samsara Gxy''s 18 Ster Rivers, representing these Ster Rivers within the Samsara Gxy Federation!

    This Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was also jointly organized by them.

    As the host, Empyrean Emperor Chen stood slightly forward, but Yun Xiao knew that he was not the strongest among them; the other 17 were each terrifyingly profound figures, each enshrouded in mystery and depth.

    As these 18 figures arrived, the hundreds of thousands of disciples at the Ancestor Immortal Grotto suddenly closed their mouths and quickly fell silent.

    "Father?"

    Hearing Zu Xi and Zu Wei call out like this, Yun Xiao felt a bit awkward, because he had once forced Zu Wei to kneel before him, and now her father had arrived!

    "I wonder if he knows?" Yun Xiao wondered.

    Fortunately, after the arrival of these 18 representatives from the Samsara Gxy Federation, their first nce was at Si Ji!

    They were not Boundless Immortals, but Si Ji was.

    So, here, Si Ji held the highest status!

    "We greet Boundless Immortal Si Ji."

    Zu Xinchen and the 17 others, with calm expressions and respectful words, addressed her.

    By age and experience, Si Ji was not their equal, but now, they had to look up to her!

    Si Ji was an otherworldly figure; she didn''t bother with worldly manners, and spoke directly, "Your Samsra Gxy Federation hosts the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. Yet, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and itsckeys have openly attacked disciples from my Harmony Divine Pce. Half a day has passed; what has been done about this?"

    Wan Ji, hearing this, felt a bit nervous. Clearly, it wasn''t wise for the Harmony Divine Pce to make enemies of all the Ster Rivers.

    She gently added, "This is an unprecedented event in the history of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, indeed causing adverse effects. The matter of dealing with it isplex. Regardless, we thank everyone for their efforts."

    "Both of you," Empyrean Emperor Chen responded without showing any emotion, bowing slightly, "Regarding the handling of this matter, the Samsara Gxy Federation has reached a conclusion. Our presence here is to invite you to the Samsara Hall at the Million Starlight Pce to witness the decision firsthand."

    Si Ji, slightly irritated, replied, "Whatever the judgment is, you might as well say it here. I''m not going."

    "Woah, woah!" Wan Ji quickly grabbed her, whispering urgently, "What are you doing? They¡¯vee personally to invite us, considering it a matter of saving face; it¡¯s not appropriate to make a scene in public. Just go with them."

    "What if I go and they use me for target practice?" Si Ji asked.

    "You¡¯re being silly," Wan Jiughed a little. "I¡¯ve told you, the Southern Divine Dragon Realm doesn¡¯t have the strength to influence the entire Samsara Gxy Federation. There are several factions within, and they¡¯re not united."

    She paused, then spoke very seriously, "Listen to me, our Harmony Divine Pce never had the qualifications to enter this circle before; integrating into the Samsara Gxy is our best advantage. You are young and a rising star, well-positioned. If you can seize this opportunity, we will need friends for the battles ahead with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm."

    "Seizing this opportunity, you mean..." Si Ji began, already understanding despite her distaste for social settings that she needed to step up.

    "Youth and beauty," Wan Ji responded knowingly.

    "Don¡¯t talk nonsense." Si Ji was somewhat exasperated. Using a woman¡¯s beauty as a weapon was taboo in the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, and it was a notion she couldn''t quite shake off.

    "Don''t get the wrong idea; I mean thatpared to those arrogant and coarse individuals from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, your charisma is far superior. With your talent, you don''t need to charm others with your looks. You just need to stand there, speak your mind without subservience or arrogance. Those who appreciate you will naturally side with you," Wan Ji exined, then pursed her lips, adding, "If we really had to use beauty as a weapon, well, wouldn¡¯t that young fellow just erupt with anger?"

    Thinking of Yun Xiao, Si Ji couldn''t help but let out a chuckle, saying impulsively, "It would be even better if that little rascal got mad."

    "Tsk tsk, look at you, all smiles. You¡¯re hopeless," Wan Ji teased.

    "Shut up," Si Ji replied, her eyes hardening with resolve as she gritted her teeth, "Fine, even if it¡¯s through a sea of mes or over mountains of des, I¡¯ll make my way! Is it just about stepping out of myfort zone, making a change? I¡¯ve be a Boundless Immortal; what do I have to fear from them?"

    With that, she flew towards the 18 figures with an imposing aura, dering, "I will apany you to the Samsara Hall."

    The Samsara Hall, the supreme location within the Million Starlight Pce, was where the elite of the Samsara Gxy convened.

    "Please!" Zu Xinchen weed her and announced to the gathered crowd, "The Ancestor Immortal Grotto is now open; all contending teams may enter for battle immediately!"

    Atst, it began.

    Groups of supremely talented individuals from the Fifth Baptism Realm emerged prominently, soaring towards the Ancestor Immortal Grotto with remarkable presence.

    Zu Xinchen''s gaze finally rested on Zu Xi, Yun Xiao, and the others. He dered, "The host team will enterst!"@@novelbin@@<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 949: Heavenly Demon Stellar River

    After the fiercepetition at the Grand Assembly Arena, there was a brief intermission. The excitement was about to surge once again.

    In contrast to the internal contests within each Ster River seen earlier, the true essence of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was embodied in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto''spetition between the 18 Ster Rivers. This was a genuine sh of the new generations from different Ster Rivers¡ªusually too vast and separated by barriers, rarely having a chance to directly confront each other.

    Now, the Ancestor Immortal Grotto gathered these exceptional talents, making it not only a contest of power but also a moment for each Ster River to shine its brightest. The oues would significantly impact the honor, authority, and future prospects of the celestial sects across the 18 Ster Rivers.

    This was of paramount importance!

    Compared to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, the internal struggles within the Ster Rivers at the Grand Assembly Arena were merely designed to give mid-tier talents a sense of involvement.

    To witness the sh of the pinnacle of talents, one must look to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    So, many considered the Grand Assembly Arena merely a warm-up; the real spectacle of talent was at the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    As Zu Xinchen dered, batch after batch of top-tier talents in the Fifth Baptism Realm entered the swirling vortex of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, disappearing into the starry maelstrom.

    Each one was a prodigy of the highest order,parable to figures like Zu Xi and Zhao Cann¡ªtrue paragons among countless billions!Their demeanor, heritage, bloodlines, and divine foundations were all exceptional, far surpassing the hundreds of thousands of talented peers witnessing their entry.

    Moreover, as they entered, the rtive strengths of the Ster Rivers were apparent.

    The number of disciples in the Fifth Baptism Realm couldn¡¯t be faked¡ªshowing the depth and power of each Ster River.

    Although the number of participants¡ªranging from a dozen to over a hundred¡ªcouldn''t perfectly represent the strength between two Ster Rivers, it was certainly indicative of broader trends.

    With every entry of these top talents, cheers erupted, underlining the high regard in which these prodigies were held.

    At this moment, all eyes were on those making their entrance.

    Yun Xiao was no exception.

    He scrutinized eachpetitor.

    "In the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, there stands an ancient stele bearing the Samsara Rankings¡ªthe premier ranking of talents in the Samsara Gxy, updated every Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects. Only ten are listed, and to make it onto this list means resounding fame across the 18 Ster Rivers and a likely future of bing a Boundless Immortal," Wan Ji remarked with longing and admiration.

    "I''ve never made the rankings," Si Ji said nonchntly.

    "But you can''t deny the influence of this list. It''s a gold standard. If you had made it, our Harmony Divine Pce would have faced far fewer difficulties over the centuries," Wan Ji earnestly replied.

    "The influence is indeed substantial. Everyone in the Samsara Gxy, be they neers or those starting anew, dreams of seeing their name on the Samsara Rankings. After all, it was said that even the Supreme Heavenly Court takes notice of this ranking..." Si Ji acknowledged, speaking with conviction.

    "Aren''t you tired of all these rankings? It''s kind of boring, no?" Yun Xiao couldn''t help butin.

    "It''s different! The Grand Assembly Rankings is about power, while the Samsara Rankings ranks true talent. If you''re not interested, I am. I want to stand out," Feng Yao said excitedly.

    "I think you just want to lose your head," Yun Xiao chuckled.

    "There are many rewards for those who make the rankings, even opportunities to join the Samsara Gxy Federation. Don''t you want to know more?" Wan Ji asked.

    "There''s no time left; we''re about to start, and you''re only mentioning this now?" Yun Xiao responded dryly.

    "I was going to tell you, but you and Si Ji ran off, didn''t you? It¡¯s been half a day. Couldn¡¯t you find time to discuss serious matters?" Wan Ji retorted.

    "Let''s not talk about it anymore; he doesn''t care and probably won''t make it anyway," Si Ji quickly interjected, wary of ruining her image in front of Feng Yao.

    "Anyway, if you have questions about the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, just ask her; Wan Ji knows the details," Si Ji suggested.

    Yun Xiao''s focus was indeed more on rescue efforts now. As forpeting in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, he''d see how he felt and what the benefits were. If the rewards were good, he wouldn¡¯t turn them down.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Amidst the enthusiastic farewells of hundreds of thousands of talents from across the Samsara Gxy, the top talents from 18 Ster Rivers entered the Ancestor Immortal Grotto one after another.

    The Heavenly Deity Ster River, being the first host gxy in history with fewer than ten Fifth Baptism Realm talents, enteredst, eliciting someughter at the thinly popted state from both the crowd and Million Starlight Pce.

    If not for the presence of Yun Xiao and Feng Yao, people might have scorned the host as barely having a handful of talents.

    Even the team of talents who entered before them struggled to hold back theirughter.

    They were demons. There were 33 of them. These 33 demons appeared to be of entirely different kinds, with no two the same.

    But what they all had inmon was that they were all resentment demons¡ªa special ss of demon known for defying the natural order, often unpredictable, and notoriously difficult to vanquish or kill.

    Yun Xiao had already encountered numerous resentment demons, particrly corpse demons, but these 33 still evoked a sense of danger, eeriness, and grim foreboding.

    They even made figures like Zu Xi feel a chill.

    The 33 demons didn''t openly mock the Heavenly Deity Ster River''s group; instead, they turned back to give Yun Xiao and the others a chilling cacophony of unsettlingughs before disappearing into the turbulent maelstrom within the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    "I''ve heard that the Heavenly Demon Ster River has grown quite close to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm over the past millennium. They''re located near the southern edge of the Heavenly Deity Ster River, close to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm as well," Zu Xi mentioned, ncing at Yun Xiao as a reminder. "Given the way they were looking at you earlier, there''s an eighty percent chance they''ll try to take revenge for the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. It''s just a guess, but you should still be cautious."

    "Thanks for the heads-up." Yun Xiao appreciated the warning. "With 33 resentment demons, each harboring different grudges, there is indeed danger. I''ll be careful."

    He could sense that among his opponents in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, many were particrly troublesome¡ªmany were reincarnations of old monsters, cunning and vicious, and there were numerous top-tier Seeds of Creation.

    "It''s our turn. After we enter, we''ll use flying talismans to stay in contact," Zu Xi stated seriously.

    The need for flying talismans stemmed from the initial chaos upon entering the grotto, where everyone would be scattered to different locations.

    Normally, although everyone started in different ces, those from the same Ster River would likely use flying talismans tomunicate and try to regroup as soon as possible.

    Some preferred to go it alone.

    From Zu Xi''s attitude, it seemed they were keen on sticking with Yun Xiao.

    "Since I''m already a target for the Heavenly Demon Ster River, won''t it be dangerous for you to be with me?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "I trust you," Zu Xi replied, recalling how Yun Xiao had dominated with a single strike against 300 geniuses. He joked, "As for the Heavenly Demon Ster River, they have no quarrel with us. Normally, they''d only beat you up without involving us."

    "How honest!" Yun Xiaoughed. "Alright, let''s keep in touch with the flying talismans, everyone."

    Despite the arrangement with the flying talismans, in such a chaotic environment as the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, finding each other solely based on them would be difficult¡ªit depended on luck. It was said that most of the time, even paired flying talismans couldn''t locate each other.

    So, the group of eight entered the Ancestor Immortal Grotto together.

    As for the disciple named Meng Yan from the Nine Yin Soul Sea, she had already entered with another group earlier.

    As Yun Xiao, Feng Yao, and the others entered the swirling tempest of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, it marked the official start of thepetition.

    The storm at the entrance of the grotto began to shrink and close.

    The hundreds of thousands of talents seeing them off grew tense.

    "Let''s go! Head to the Million Starlight Pce to watch!"

    "Hurry!"

    Nothing could be seen from the entrance of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto; the oues would ultimately be observed from the Million Starlight Pce.

    At the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, after the departure of the hundreds of thousands of onlookers, the area quickly emptied, leaving only the 18 representatives from the Samsara Gxy Federation and a few members from the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "Please follow me," a middle-aged man said, his presence eerie and distinctively pale. His skin was ghastly white, his hair frosty, and even his eyeballs were devoid of color, giving him the appearance of a corpse or a zombie.

    "Sure," Si Ji nodded, reassured to see Yun Xiao sessfully enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. She was now ready to head to the Samsara Hall.

    "Wan Ji, will you continue to stay here, or head to the Million Starlight Pce?" the pallid man suddenly asked with a grin that was more disturbing than friendly, startling even his ownpanions.

    "Mind your own business, why so nosy?" Wan Ji replied sharply, her voice chilly.

    The man merely gave a ghastly grin and left with the other representatives from the Samsara Gxy Federation and Si Ji, heading towards the Samsara Hall.

    Once they were gone, only Wan Ji, her daughters, and two Young Dragon Consorts, Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei, remained.

    "Mother, who is that representative from the Heavenly Demon Ster River? He gives off such a creepy vibe," Hai Ying expressed, visibly unnerved.

    "Don''t bother with him. Just a rotten zombie. He once tried to sneak into our Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, but I chased him off," Wan Ji scoffed.

    "Is that the Corpse Cloud Emperor?" Hai Qing realized, "He couldn''t even beat mother. Yet, he managed to enter the Samsara Gxy Federation. Seems like he''s good at buttering people up."@@novelbin@@

    "Cough, cough." Wan Ji was somewhat embarrassed. "Actually, I used the power of our grand celestial formation. In a normal one-on-one fight, I doubt I could defeat that monster..."

    Her daughters'' momentarily inted egos deted just as quickly.

    "No worries, if that zombie dares to mess around, the Snow Lineage Diva can crush him," Hai Ying huffed confidently.

    "By the way, mother, aren¡¯t we from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, secluded and hard to reach except through the teleportation array? How did the Corpse Cloud Emperor manage toe?" Hai Qing asked.

    Wan Ji shook her head. "We are secluded, but some Ster River powers possess divine vessels or celestial ships of a quality beyond the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades, capable of using the Supreme Celestial Pathways of a Category 4 ne to jump directly to us. The Heavenly Demon Ster River has such ships. The Corpse Cloud Emperor was actually here on a scouting mission."

    As she spoke about this, her expression was deeply troubled...

 Chapter 950: Wan Jis Stage!

    "Mother!" Hai Qing shuddered, clenching her teeth as she spoke with a tremble, "Does that mean even if we seal the teleportation formation, we can''t iste ourselves from the world? If the Heavenly Demon Ster River lends this celestial ship to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, they could still..."

    "Mhm..." Wan Ji nodded. Seeing the panic in her daughter¡¯s eyes, she quickly added, "Don¡¯t worry too much. This celestial ship, being beyond the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades, must be small in size to jump to the Supreme Celestial Pathways. It can¡¯t carry many people; ten is the limit, and it consumes a massive amount of energy, which prevents frequent use."

    "Oh, that''s somewhat relieving..." Hai Qing sighed, her eyes cold as she said, "In the past, we feared that the Southern Divine Dragon Realm would send their strongest to force open our teleportation formation, but now that we have a Boundless Immortal, we''re not so afraid!"

    "Exactly, and besides, we are members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance and one of the administrators of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. The Southern Divine Dragon Realm has no right to act recklessly... unless theypletely abandon their dignity, wanting to disrupt the power structure of the Heavenly Deity Ster River!" Wan Ji said coldly.

    "Yes, yes! We are the Heavenly Deity Alliance, we represent justice!" Hai Qing and the others dered.

    This was the significance of their victory at the Grand Assembly Arena.

    But they all knew that facing an infuriated Southern Divine Dragon Realm, justice alone was not enough. If they went mad, a battle would still be inevitable.

    The only good thing might be that the Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce wouldn¡¯t side with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, and might even condemn them.

    But as for sending troops to suppress them, that was uncertain."No matter what, with those two, plus Yun Xiao and Feng Yao, we''re much better off now than before!" Wan Ji¡¯s eyes surged like tumultuous waves.

    "Two?"

    Wan Ji''s daughters were still unaware of Yu Ji''s situation and were a bit puzzled but did not ask further.

    "Let¡¯s go to the Million Starlight Pce, your aunt is still there alone," Wan Ji changed the subject.

    "Mhm."

    Her daughters nodded.

    Then Wan Ji nced at Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei, saying, "You two, follow me,e closer."

    "Yes, Diva."

    In front of Wan Ji, they were still very obedient, and Wan Ji¡¯s intent was clearly to provide close protection.

    Looking at the two towering figures beside her, Wan Ji couldn¡¯t help but inwardly remark, "This guy has a really big appetite, daring to control such giants."

    Among ordinary people, she was indeed considered all-embracing, but frankly, how could youpare anything with a pair of washbasins?

    Their diameter was nearly a foot, able to wash an entire face with plenty to spare.

    Their group was thest to head for the Million Starlight Pce.

    Along the way¡­

    "Nanyin!" Shi Feifei suddenly trembled and called out to Shen Nanyin.

    Shen Nanyin nced at her with confusion before following her pointing finger. In the starry expanse, two burly men were hunched over, moving like the walking dead.@@novelbin@@

    Shen Nanyin''s delicate brows furrowed.

    These <em>men</em> were Long Hao and Long Kun.

    As Wan Ji and her daughters passed by, these zombie-like Young Dragon Lords immediately spotted them!

    "Stop!" Long Hao suddenly bellowed, his voice raspy as if he had been crying out for a long time.

    Wan Ji paused, looking indifferently at the two.

    Clearly, these two useless cripples seemed abandoned, utterly neglected.

    Moreover, with their fathers having met grim fates, Long Hao and Long Kun had be synonymous with tragedy.

    "What do you want?" Wan Ji asked coldly.

    Yun Xiao had spared them, choosing instead to let them continually enjoy their suffering. It was just the beginning, and Wan Ji certainly had no interest in finishing them off.

    "Sea Lineage Diva... please, give us a chance to speak with those two wretches! Just a moment!" Long Hao said, his face twisted.

    "There''s nothing to talk about. Get lost. Cripple," Shi Feifei said quickly, actually a bit frightened by them.

    "Shi Feifei, are you scared now? It''s toote to be scared! Haha! You can''t imagine how miserable your fate will be! You are a disgrace to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm! You''ll be despised for millennia! All of the Dragon Devil n see you as vermin!" Long Kun said with a bitter coldugh.

    Shi Feifeiughed, "That''s still better than you two eunuchs without a father, at least. Are you done crying your eyes out yet?"

    Her reference to their dead fathers indeed broke their defenses on the spot.

    "Shut up!" Long Hao roared, ring at them, bellowing, "Just you wait! Our Dragon Ancestor will take action personally, and the Samsara Gxy is full of his friends! We haven''t been punished at all! In the Samsara Gxy, your Harmony Divine Pce is the odd one out! Just wait, if you wretched women survive this, I''ll take your surname! Especially you, Shen Nanyin!"

    "You fools really are naive. Do you even know our Dragon Ancestor¡¯s status in the Samsara Gxy? Haha¡­" Long Kun sneered menacingly.

    Shen Nanyin faced their fierce expressions, feeling the pressure for sure, and naturally, fear was within her heart, knowing well the authority of the Dragon Ancestor.

    However, she had chosen this path and there was no turning back.

    She looked at them with a gaze of pity, coldly stating, "Long Hao, no matter what the future holds, it doesn''t change the fact that you''re an impotent waste of breath. You shouldn''t be pleased. Regardless of whether the Southern Divine Dragon Realm or Harmony Divine Pce wins, victory will never be yours, because you''re not even a man of the Dragon Devil n anymore."

    Long Hao, upon hearing Shen Nanyin''s scathing words, choked with fury and coughed up a mouthful of blood, further injuring himself.

    "Die!" Hepletely lost it and charged at Shen Nanyin, roaring with rage.

    "Useless eunuch," Shen Nanyin rolled her eyes dismissively.

    Wan Ji, seeing that these two were utterly defeated inside, likened them to nothing more than snot¡ªdisgusting and not worth her time.

    She was aware of the Dragon Ancestor''s alliances within the Samsara Gxy.

    However, the brazenness with which Long Hao and Long Kun spoke of him was a clear warning sign that the Dragon Ancestor was indeed making gains¡ªan rming sign that the situation was far from optimistic.

    She kept this in mind.

    "Let¡¯s go, don''t waste words on flies."

    With a flick of her hand, Wan Ji unleashed a wave that engulfed Long Hao and Long Kun¡¯s anger, sending them flying into the distance. She didn¡¯t hurt them¡ªinstead, letting them fly awayfortably, which only added to their despair.

    As the group of women disappeared from view, the two ten-foot-tall <em>men</em> looked at each other and burst into anguished crying.

    There was a time when they had dominated their women, whipping and kicking them for the slightest dissatisfaction, forcing them to cry and beg for mercy.

    Now, the tables had turned. Unable tosh out or hit back, the rage and frustration were eating them up inside.

    "You still don''t get it, do you!" Long Hao stood up, yelling towards the direction the women had gone, using all his might to scream, "Let me tell you the truth! Our friends from the Dragon Devil n have assured us¡ªYun Xiao is doomed to die in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto! He''s as good as dead! Watch closely in the Million Starlight Pce!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Shortly after, Wan Ji, along with her daughters and the two Young Dragon Consorts, arrived at the Million Starlight Pce.

    The pce was bustling with a new influx of mid-tier talents from the Grand Assembly Arena, adding to the lively atmosphere.

    The battle for supremacy in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto was just beginning. Most people were still introducing the talents, and no fights had broken out yet, so the mood was jovial and lively.

    Under the gaze of many, Wan Ji headed to the seating area of the Heavenly Deity Alliance in the Heavenly Deity Ster River section, where previously only the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen had been.

    "Look, those two Young Dragon Consorts!"

    "Good heavens, they¡¯re already the biggest disgrace in the history of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. How can they show up in the Million Starlight Pce like this?"

    "What about those haughty members of the Dragon Devil n? Have they all been castrated to tolerate this?"

    "Oh! It looks like the entire Dragon Devil n has exited the scene."

    "Even so, hearing how these two Young Dragon Consorts are shining, it must infuriate them enough toe back and kill."

    "Honestly, if they decide to kill these two Young Dragon Consorts, the Harmony Divine Pce really has no grounds to stop them, as it¡¯s a matter of internal affairs¡­"

    "It¡¯s just a matter of whether they dare toe back. The Million Starlight Pce is not a ce where you can just start a fight."

    "Anyway, those men from the Dragon Devil n were truly humiliated! Such a disgrace! They adhere to male supremacy, yet they were trampled on by women!"

    The chatter filled the air everywhere.

    Until Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei took their seats at the Harmony Divine Pce''s section, the murmurs and discussions continued.

    Indeed, as long as they were there, it seemed that everyone from the Southern Divine Dragon Realm couldn''t hold their heads high, as if they were being stepped on by these women, which would infuriate all their men.

    A storm was also brewing in the Million Starlight Pce.

    Wan Ji, seemingly oblivious to the chatter, greeted the leaders present from the Heavenly Deity Alliance with a smile, including Yun Sheng and Empyrean Emperor Mu, conspicuously ignoring Gong Tianjian, which infuriated the old woman even more.

    With Wan Ji''s arrival, the Heavenly Deity Alliance''s area became lively, bustling with people eager to chat and even congratte her, making her the center of attention.

    This was the advantage of being a beautiful and charismatic figure.

    Even though the past image of the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm was not favorable towards men, the current Wan Ji had transcended such notions, seeing no barriers, thus utilizing her charm to forge connections effortlessly.

    In just a short time, the area of the Heavenly Deity Alliance seemed very harmonious.

    The only discordant note was Gong Tianjian.

    Compared to Wan Ji, who was about the same age, the difference was stark¡ªlikeparing flowers to manure; one fragrant, the other foul.

    Who would want to look at Gong Tianjian''s sour face?

    "Wan Ji." The Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen felt under less pressure now.

    After making rounds and acknowledging others, Wan Ji finally embraced the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen.

    "Letting them stay openly here will severely provoke the Dragon Devil n," the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen remarked, referring to Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei.

    "It doesn¡¯t matter, let''s irritate these curs," Wan Ji replied coldly.

    "Si Ji has gone to the Samsara Hall. If they reallye back in a fury, can we hold them off?" the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen asked, puzzled.

    "Just be at ease," Wan Ji assured her.

    Her cryptic yet utterly confident reply seemed to spark a realization in the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen, stirring some excitement.

    "Don''t overthink it," Wan Ji said, cing her hand on her shoulder. Looking towards Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei, her tone became serious, "However, we must ensure their safety."

    "Why? Has Yun Xiao imed them?" the Ice Cloud Valkyrie Queen asked, half-jokingly.

    "No," Wan Ji shook her head, "It''s because they''ve provided us with crucial information. Going forward, they are vital witnesses; they absolutely cannot die!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 951: A Gift!

    As Yun Xiao was thest to enter the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, a tumultuous flow of celestial energy, like a riotous sea, enveloped him.

    This chaotic force was incredibly strong. In an instant, Yun Xiao lost track of the others. Despite his best efforts to stabilize himself, he was tossed around helplessly, clueless about where he might end up!

    "Ahhhh!"

    From the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, there came the panicked shrieks of Feng Yao.

    Sometimes she was just a silly girl, and her screams were particrly loud. But Yun Xiao knew she was fine; controlling half of her body with the Mortal Dust Devil Seed, he could clearly feel everything she experienced... which was pretty much the same as his own situation!

    In any case, they were being swept in different directions by this violent, dense surge of power.

    The whole ordeal didn''tst long.

    Soon, Yun Xiao was washed ashore. He quickly steadied himself and swept his eyes around, taking in everything in his vicinity.

    At this moment, he seemed to be in the midst of chaos, surrounded by a sort of dark brown ink-like airflow, endless and infinite.This countless ink-like airflow moved much slower, naturally not sweeping people up in chaos as before.

    Before Yun Xiao, these streams of ink continuously transformed, at times into animals, trees, flowers, and asionally into ptial buildings...

    So, the entire world of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto appeared like an ink painting, with Yun Xiao himself bing a part of this ink-painted realm.

    "This ink-like airflow is a stable form of celestial energy; the Ancestor Immortal Grotto is like a realm even more fragmented than the Heavenly Deity Ster River or the Million Starlight Pce... but shattered even more thoroughly."

    More thoroughly shattered, yet its core area was so calm. What power was there, pacifying this chaotic celestial energy?

    "There¡¯s no immediate danger, but this ink-like celestial energy obscures the vision, making it hard to see far."

    Yun Xiao could have his spirit leave his body to explore. After absorbing Meng Huan''s Seed of Creation, his spirit could split into nine clones, which would undoubtedly enhance his ability to explore.

    However, he chose not to do so for now.

    "Come this way."

    He closed his eyes, sensing Feng Yao¡¯s position, with the Mortal Dust Devil Seed acting almost like a body double.

    Although the ink-like torrents of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto continually changed, they couldn''t obscure the connection between Yun Xiao and his half-double.

    After all, his true body double, Moon Fairy, was far away in the Six Paths of Reincarnation. Yet, Yun Xiao was still in control... currently frolicking around with Qiqi, the Qilin.

    Yun Xiao parted these ink-like clouds immactely, making his way towards Feng Yao.

    Meanwhile, Feng Yao was slightly anxious, cursing this bizarre ce, hoping to feel more at ease once she truly saw Yun Xiao.

    Fortunately, they hadn''t been separated too far upon entering. It wasn''t long before Yun Xiao arrived in a particr area.

    This ce had several rock-like formations which were oddly shaped. These rocks took the form of long strips, resembling demonic ws that interlocked with each other to form a resembling a rock web.

    Yun Xiao tested it and found this dark and eerie rock web to be quite hard, the material suitable even for forging celestial treasures.

    Thankfully, although these demonic w spiderwebs were everywhere, theirrge gaps didn''t hinder Yun Xiao''s movements.

    At the same time, Feng Yao also entered this area and saw these demonic ws.

    "Where exactly are you?" Feng Yao''s tone was clearly coquettish, as if she had be incredibly needy just after a short separation.

    "I see you now."

    As this voice sounded in her ear, a white figure suddenly appeared behind her, delivering a sharp p to her protruding rear.

    <em>SMACK! </em>A crisp sound with an echo followed.

    "Are you crazy?" Feng Yao was startled, but after turning and seeing him, she just rolled her eyes.

    Their meeting in white and red attire, respectively, seemed to rx their moods.

    Yun Xiao''s gaze then fell on the surrounding peculiar terrain.

    Feng Yao looked around as well and asked, "What do we do next? Where do we go?"

    Yun Xiao pulled several flying talismans from his robes and said, "There¡¯s no rush, there¡¯s been no word from my senior sister yet."

    While talking, he released the flying talismans.

    "She should be fine."

    Remembering Zhao Xuanran, Feng Yao wasn''t sure what to say¡ªperhaps this was the enduring allure of a man''s first love?

    Since she hadn''t interacted much with Zhao Xuanran, she naturally didn''t know her charm or what she represented.

    Feng Yao asked, "Did you send a flying talisman to that little white rabbit?"

    She was well aware that Yun Xiao had teased Yun Lingchen, Shen Nanyin, and Shi Feifei in the past. She was especially irritated by the two Young Dragon Consorts, who were simr to her type but noticeably more substantial.

    Fortunately, she knew these two were already married, and Yun Xiao probably wouldn''t be interested in them.

    But Yun Lingchen, who seemed like a more gentle version of Divine Dawn, annoyed her somewhat.

    What Feng Yao was unaware of was that while she was guarding against outsiders, Si Ji had swooped in right under her nose.

    "Zu Xi, Mu Xihe, and others¡ªI''ve sent to all of them," Yun Xiao said indifferently, ignoring the jealousy in her tone.

    "Oh." Feng Yao gave him a curious look and asked, "Aren''t you usually fond of acting alone, freely and leisurely? Why are you actively contacting them? Are you really nning to lead them on this trip to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto?"

    "Can''t I?" Yun Xiao said while waiting.

    "It''s fine, but it''s not your style. I always feel like you have an ulterior motive!" Feng Yao huffed.

    Yun Xiao couldn''t help but smile wryly, "You don''t understand. Zu Xi and Yun Lingchen have the backing of two old prestigious families from the Heavenly Deity Ster River. By looking out for them, I can alleviate a lot of pressure on the Harmony Divine Pce.

    "After all, the Harmony Divine Pce''s only real enemy is the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. The Ancestral Land and Elysian Immortal Pce have no grievances with us, and they hold sway and moral authority in the Heavenly Deity Ster River... In short, a little effort from me can help the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm a lot."

    "But what about before, when you humiliated Zu Wei and castrated Zhao Cann? You¡¯ve offended them all, and now you want to make amends? Weren''t you the one who seemed ready to take on the Heavenly Deity Ster River alone?" Feng Yao pouted.

    Yun Xiao knew she didn''t grasp the intricacies¡­ Since they were waiting anyway, he exined, "Zhao Cann is aligned with Gong Tianjian, who''s in cahoots with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, meaning that part of their power is already corrupt. Treating Zhao Cann and Yun Lingchen differently is meant to sever Gong Tianjian from the Elysian Immortal Pce."

    "What about Zu Wei then? She and Zu Xi are siblings! And she¡¯s even more favored," Feng Yao retorted.

    Yun Xiao shrugged and said, "When dealing with the Ancestral Land, we need to use both carrot and stick. First, hit them with the stick to make them take us seriously, it''s all harmless; then offer them the carrot. Only then can we truly respect each other."

    Yun Xiao''s response to Feng Yao''s misgivings about his strategic choices was dismissive. He was too adept with words, and a change of subject seemed futile with him. At that moment, however, his attention shifted as he began receiving responses to the flying talismans he had sent out.

    After reviewing the messages, Yun Xiao casually mentioned, "They''ve all replied, telling me to stay put; they''lle to us."

    "How can they find their way here in such chaos, with everything so mysterious?" Feng Yao asked, her curiosity piqued like a child''s.

    "They''ve been preparing for the Ancestor Immortal Grotto for a long time and have studied its internalyout. I just described our surroundings to them, and they recognized it as the Spider Stone Area, they seem to know where it is," Yun Xiao exined.

    "Oh, I see¡­ Well then, we wait! Wait for your little white rabbit," Feng Yao huffed.

    "Why are you so jealous? Don''t forget who you are, little maid," Yun Xiao teased with augh.

    "Maid, my foot," Feng Yao turned away.

    "Why are you upset now?" Yun Xiao asked, his voice tinged with exasperation.

    "I''m not," Feng Yao replied, forcing augh.

    Yun Xiao could only shake his head, amused yet bewildered by her theatrics.

    Yet, this was part of her charm.

    He genuinely enjoyed their yful banter; the vast path of immortality would be incredibly lonely without someone to spar with verbally. Life might bring many passersby, but due to the ties of Mortal Dust Devil Blood and Blood Base, she was destined to be by Yun Xiao''s side forever.

    Unless she died¡­

    "Hey, don''t be mad. Here''s a gift for you." In this ink-like flow of the world, Yun Xiao reached out and gently tugged on her arm.

    "I don''t want it! Take it away!" Feng Yao snapped, shaking off his hand and scowling.

    "You sure? They''re Upper Burying Heaven grade artifacts. That''s the pinnacle of the Nine Heavens Celestial Grades. They''re considered treasures capable of anchoring stars. Theirst owner was one of the eight Dragon Emperors of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, the Blood Dragon Emperor..."

    Yun Xiao hadn¡¯t even finished speaking when Feng Yao suddenly spun around. Her dragon horns quivered and eyes sparkled with anticipation. She quickly asked, "Where? Where''s the gift?"@@novelbin@@

 Chapter 952: Missing Little White Rabbit!

    "Didn''t you say you didn''t want my gift?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Feng Yao paused, then giggled shyly, stepping forward to grasp Yun Xiao''s arm and cooing, "I was wrong, please forgive my foolishness and let it slide. Please give me the gift, I promise I''ll behave from now on."

    "I don''t believe you, not unless you give me a kiss," Yun Xiao replied.

    At this, Feng Yao''s racial traits kicked in immediately. Her heartbeat quickened, causing her skin to flush with blood, turning her already delicateplexion strikingly radiant, even steaming slightly in the heat.

    "No, don''t."

    Despite her stunning appearance, Feng Yao was actually very shy, nowhere near as bold as Chen Xi or Lian Xi, fitting the fierce outside but timid inside type. Just a little bit of teasing and she''d seem almost intoxicated.

    "Just one kiss, or no deal," Yun Xiao insisted.

    He preferred not to rush their rtionship; he wanted to savor the best moments slowly, allowing her to befortable with the pace.

    "Just the cheek then," Yun Xiao conceded.Smoking mad, Feng Yao finally let out a sigh of relief upon hearing this, biting her lip and murmuring, "Fine, you''re terrible."

    She slowly closed her eyes, bowing slightly to press her lips against Yun Xiao''s cheek.

    But just as they were about to touch, Yun Xiao suddenly turned, grasping the back of her head and meeting her lips with his.

    "Mhmm..."

    After a moment filled with sweetness and scent¡­

    "You!" Feng Yao stepped back, pointing at Yun Xiao with a mix of shame and anger, and eximed, "You liar! Jerk! That was my first kiss!"

    "No need to point out it was your first kiss," Yun Xiao remarked, savoring the memory, his eyes twinkling as he added, "Your tongue is really quite long."

    Her tongue was unusually long, already an exaggeration by normal standards, and hisment only highlighted its unusual agility.

    As Feng Yao was still in shock, Yun Xiao didn''t wait for more insults. He decisively pulled out the two precious treasures of the Blood Dragon Emperor!

    Indeed, these weapons, a bow and arrow, were not a set but separate, each a supreme celestial treasure in its own right.

    The huge bow, entirely blood-red like a bloodstone with veins running through it, melded brutality with elegance, appearing not at all fierce but rather graceful.

    But when Feng Yao took hold of the bow, it trembled immediately, unleashing a vast ocean of blood-like power that swept across the west!

    Had Feng Yao not infused it with the Mortal Dust Devil Blood, the sheer force might have reduced her to dust.

    Such high-grade celestial treasures were not meant for those within the Fifth Baptism Realm!

    But Feng Yao was indeed fortunate to wield it.

    Yun Xiao thought, "If others outside saw this scene, they''d be astounded too... As expected of the Supreme Yin Cauldron, huh?

    ¡°Those wretched Dragon Devils, even daring to covet the one woman they regard as forbidden, and they''re all old men at that!¡±

    Up until now, the Dragon Devil n elders hadn¡¯t even approached Feng Yao, and had already sent all their young geniuses along with two Dragon Emperors to capture her!

    ¡°The beatings will continue until they''ve learned their lesson.¡±

    The Bloodfiend Jade Dragon Bow in Feng Yao''s hands was akin to Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei for the Dragon Devil n, representing an absolute disgrace to them!

    In addition to the Bloodfiend Jade Dragon Bow, Yun Xiao now held eight ck arrows in his hand!

    These arrows, once released, arranged themselves automatically in the sky, forming an eight trigrams formation, one arrow at each point!

    The Bloodfiend Jade Dragon Bow was elegant, but the eight ck arrows radiated an rming murderous aura.

    They were like eight ancient, ferocious demons from a long forgotten era!

    ¡°Eight Trigrams Dragon-ying Arrows, capable of firing up to eight arrows simultaneously to maximize your lethality,¡± said Yun Xiao as he offered these arrows to her.

    ¡°Amazing!¡± Feng Yao¡¯s eyes widened, brimming with joy. Holding a bow in one hand and arrows in the other, she spun around gleefully like a child.

    ¡°I treat you well, don¡¯t I?¡± Yun Xiao said with satisfaction.

    ¡°Yes, yes, you''re the best! I¡¯m not mad at you anymore.¡± Feng Yao flirted with a yful nce.

    With the enhancement of Mortal Dust Devil Blood, she was truly enchanting.

    ¡°Is the Mortal Dust Devil also a woman? Was she created by the Creator Immortal to stir his own emotions and desires?¡± Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t help but remark sarcastically.

    ¡°What do you think?¡± Blue Star and Red Moon chuckled.

    ¡°Wow.¡± Yun Xiaoughed ruefully.

    ¡°Wait!¡± Feng Yao, still feeling grateful, suddenly turned to Yun Xiao. ¡°The Blood Dragon Emperor was killed by the Snow Lineage Diva, right? So, this was actually a gift from her, you were just the messenger!¡±

    ¡°Does it make a difference?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Of course, it does! You jerk, I almost wasted my first¡­¡±

    Before she could finish, Yun Xiao handed her a blood-colored jade slip, saying, ¡°This is called the Southern Blood Lineage Arrow Technique, renowned as the finest archery technique of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. You learn it first, and if you can¡¯t, I¡¯ll teach you!¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡± Feng Yao took it, immediately changing her tune and shylyughed, ¡°Oh, thank you. You''re the best.¡±

    She sure changed her tune quickly. But she was quite diligent, knowing there were challenges ahead in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. She took time while waiting to study the two celestial treasures and Southern Blood Lineage Arrow Technique.

    And Yun Xiao had another big toy to show!

    It was a golden dragon cauldron!

    This golden dragon cauldron was incredibly imposing, standing on nine legs, each leg a nine-wed golden dragon supporting the cauldron. It bore some resemnce to the Prison Warden Sigil.

    This made the cauldron appear immensely solid and authoritative, with an imperial majesty unmatched by any other!

    The nine-legged colossal cauldron, named the Supreme Dragon Cauldron, was the signature celestial treasure of the Golden Dragon Emperor. An Upper Burying Heaven grade tool, it was typically paired with his Sword Soul to shake the heavens and earth.

    However, before he could even use the Supreme Dragon Cauldron this time, it had been seized by Si Ji.

    Upon learning that Yun Xiao could wield this Supreme Dragon Cauldron, Si Ji gifted it to him to use within the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, continuing to infuriate the Dragon Devil n!

    She herself preferred not to use such domineering celestial treasures, as they shed with her powers derived from 16 types of Yin attribute cmities.

    Yun Xiao manipted the Supreme Dragon Cauldron, making it radiate golden light. This helped guide Zu Xi and others to his location more easily by spotting the light.

    Meanwhile, he was still savoring that recent kiss.@@novelbin@@

    "Tongue like a hand, graspable and delightful," Yun Xiao mused, a slight smile on his lips.

    Through the misty ink-like clouds, the sight of the young devil woman drawing her bow, her posture as taut as the bow itself, was indeed spicy.

    She made the beauties of the world seem lesser byparison.

    Some time passed¡­

    "Someone''sing."

    As Yun Xiao uttered these words, Feng Yao put away her bow and arrow.

    The first to be drawn by the Supreme Dragon Cauldron was Zu Xi, who was so overwhelmed at the sight that he was struck speechless, covered in a golden aura.

    Eventually, he managed to utter one word, "Freak!"

    Then followed Mu Xihe, Li Xuan, Qin Feng, Wang Chen, each appearing more shocked than thest.

    "Who else hasn¡¯t arrived?" Wang Chen asked.

    "Yun Lingchen still isn''t here yet," Zu Xi replied, then asked Yun Xiao, "Do you have any contact with her?"

    "We made contact initially, she knows this ce," Yun Xiao answered, then sent another flying talisman, saying, "I¡¯ll ask her again."

    "We''ll also send messages."

    Everyone sent flying talismans to Yun Lingchen to ensure she received them.

    But for some reason, there was no response.

    "If she didn¡¯t want to join, she would just say so. It¡¯s unlike her not to reply unless something has happened¡­" Mu Xihe frowned, sounding anxious.

    "Even if something happened, there¡¯s nothing we can do, we can''t find her. Maybe the Million Starlight Pce could see her. If Yun Sheng is there, it shouldn''t be a big problem, right?" Li Xuan remarked.

    "Let''s wait a bit longer," Yun Xiao said.

    Unexpectedly, just as he finished speaking, a flying talisman arrived!

    Upon opening it, Yun Xiao saw that the message was written in a different handwriting: "Want to save her? Come to the Imperial Celestial Hignds."

    Yun Xiao sniffed the flying talisman and turned coldly to the others, saying, "There''s a demonic scent."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 953: The Divine Subduer Stellar River Dynasty!

    Within the Million Starlight Pce, at the heart of this Sourcecore Sanctuary, stood a magnificent circr hallposed of 18 fan-shaped sections.

    It was enveloped in divine light and adorned with radiant beads, transcendent yet solemn.

    This was the Samsara Hall!

    The Million Starlight Pce housed over 100,000,000 cultivators and was bustling with activity. However, near the Samsara Hall, silence prevailed. Even the distant mor failed to prate this area, any noisepletely isted.

    Clearly, the real dignitaries preferred tranquility.

    Led by 18 beams of divine light, a blush-white radiance pierced into the Samsara Hall, causing a slight tremor.

    This blush-white light was none other than Si Ji, the Snow Lineage Diva!

    Her entrance into the Samsara Hall was anything but meek, clearly stating her stance. She was here for an appointment, not to show submission.

    "Please."After entering the hall, a corridor ahead was filled with white, blue, and crimson mists, mingling together to create a chilling, eerie atmosphere.

    Except for Zu Xinchen from the Heavenly Deity Ster River, all other representatives, including the Corpse Cloud Emperor from the Heavenly Demon Ster River, proceeded first.

    Zu Xinchen alone guided Si Ji.

    In terms of age and experience, Zu Xinchen was senior to Si Ji. He represented the next generation of Boundless Immortals from the Ancestral Land. However, he was somewhat puzzled yet overall respectful towards Si Ji, maintaining a courteous demeanor as he led the way.

    The two remained silent, passing through the deep corridor. Ahead, a door appeared, leading to what seemed like a cage-like chamber.

    "This is the Boundless Chamber of the Samsara Hall," said Zu Xinchen as he pointed to the chamber ahead.

    Si Ji had heard of the Boundless Chamber, a space reserved for Boundless Immortals. Without one in residence, even an Empyrean Emperor might not qualify to enter.

    "Hmm." Si Ji stepped inside to find the Boundless Chamber modest in size, with simple and rustic decor, and a wooden seat at the center. Itcked grandeur but embodied a return to the origin.

    Across from the seating area in the Boundless Chamber, Si Ji noticed a wall that was surprisingly transparent, revealing the mist-shrouded exterior interspersed with numerous chambers. These were Boundless Chambers as well.

    "The so-called Samsara Hall," Si Ji thought to herself, "is simply a collection of these Boundless Chambers encircling each other¡­"

    She sat quietly in this legendary ce, scanning the visible chambers. Some were upied, others vacant. The presence of anyone in these chambers guaranteed the presence of a Boundless Immortal.

    There weren''t many Boundless Immortals stirred by the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, especially those from other Ster Rivers.

    But Si Ji still sensed other presences!

    Zu Xinchen also entered, standing to the side as Si Ji''s contemporary, awaiting instructions.

    Si Ji understood that if someone had invited her here, there was definitely a matter to address.

    "Is the Dragon Ancestor here?" Si Ji asked Zu Xinchen.

    "He left," Zu Xin Chen replied sinctly.

    "Hmm." Si Ji knew that the upants of the surrounding Boundless Chambers were observing her! This was her first public appearance as a Boundless Immortal, and curiosity about her was high. She decided not to speak first.

    "It''s a pleasure to meet you."

    Sure enough, someone took the initiative to speak.

    Si Ji looked up and saw through the mist an open Boundless Chamber where a man in ck armor sat. He sat upright, his eyes pitch ck without a hint of white, appearing about Zu Xinchen''s age but with a more substantial and dignified demeanor.

    From his appearance and demeanor, this man in ck armor did not evoke hostility in Si Ji.

    She knew not all members of the Samsara Gxy Federation were foes. So, her expression remained calm, not prickly.

    "I''m Fushen Mutian." After introducing himself with a slight nod, the man in ck armor concluded his introduction.

    "I have long heard of the illustrious Left Emperor of the Divine Subduer Ster River Dynasty," Si Ji responded, recognizing him. Figures like the Left Emperor, who became Boundless Immortals at a young age, were certainly familiar to her.

    Indeed, the name of the Left Emperor was renowned.

    Not far from the Heavenly Deity Ster River was the Divine Subduer Ster River!

    Unlike the Heavenly Deity Ster River, the Divine Subduer Ster River had always been ruled by the Fushen imperial family.

    The Fushen family established the Divine Subduer Ster River Dynasty,manding all the worlds along the entire Ster River. They truly epitomized a dynasty spanning thousands of generations, unifying the Ster River.

    In the Divine Subduer Ster River, there were no individual celestial sects; all cultivators were governed by the dynasty. Ordinary sized Celestial Sourcecores were managed as towns, those ten timesrger as counties, a hundred timesrger as cities, and a thousand timesrger as major cities or the capital.

    In contrast, the Heavenly Deity Ster River contained countless sects, with even a single Celestial Sourcecore possibly hosting dozens of celestial sects!

    A simpleparison revealed the vast difference inbat power between a fragmented Ster River and a unified dynastic Ster River.

    Fortunately, there was no conflict between the Heavenly Deity Ster River and Divine Subduer Ster River, and it was said that the Ancestral Land had a good rtionship with the Divine Subduer Ster River.

    Because of this, Fushen Mutian, the Left Emperor, was very polite to Si Ji.

    In the Divine Subduer Ster River, the supreme ruler was naturally the Great Emperor Divine Subduer, and the Left Emperor was his younger brother, second in power only to him!

    His stature and power lent him a profound imperial dignity. Yet, the Left Emperor¡¯s authority was subtly restrained and harmonious, revealing his depth.

    The more such a man was observed, the more one was drawn in and subdued by his presence.

    If Si Ji had met him a few days earlier, she might have been nervous... But now, she felt equal, able to meet his gaze confidently.

    The Left Emperor and Si Ji had just spoken, acknowledging each other.

    But what irked Si Ji was that from start to finish, no one came forward to exin the vition of the rules of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    It seemed as if this issue was simply being ignored!

    It appeared that the main reason she was invited here was to make an appearance, for all parties to assess her.

    In fact, this situation demonstrated that the Samsara Gxy Federation was not a unified front; there were various thoughts and motivations, with most people and powers observing.

    The Fushen family¡¯s greeting was essentially an olive branch.

    Besides the Left Emperor, the other Boundless Chambers were either unupied or their upants hidden deep within the celestial mist, only their eyes visible, scrutinizing Si Ji, the new challenger.

    "How annoying." Si Ji detested such maniptive, scheming environments.

    Having made her appearance, she was ready to leave.

    Just then, another Boundless Chamber floated into view, approaching closer to Si Ji.

    She immediately recognized everyone inside the chamber¡ªthere were four in total.

    On the left stood a person with a pale, emaciated appearance¡ªit was the Corpse Cloud Emperor who had guided her earlier.

    On the right stood a towering figure from the Dragon Devil n, dressed in a violet dragon robe, with long eyebrows and a handsome face filled with fierce authority.

    This was the Violet Dragon Emperor of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    When Si Ji had in the Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor, the Violet Dragon Emperor had been right behind them. If not for the re-emergence of the spiritual yin energy within Si Ji, he too would have met his end.

    His appearance in the same chamber as the Corpse Cloud Emperor spoke volumes.

    The Dragon Ancestor had departed, but his people had not.

    The Violet Dragon Emperor, one of the culprits behind viting the rules of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, was still unting his presence, effectively challenging Si Ji.

    His confidence was undoubtedly backed by the Boundless Immortal seated between him and the Corpse Cloud Emperor.

    When Si Ji''s gaze fell on the Boundless Immortal, her pupils constricted slightly, her look turning cold and serpentine.

    The figure was an old man.

    He appeared very aged, on the brink of death, with sparse hair, missing teeth, and his face and neck marked by bluish age spots. His eyes were a dark blue, adding to his chilling appearance.

    But startlingly, his lower half was not human!

    From the waist down, his body spread out into numerous blue tentacles, resembling those of an octopus or squid, with some bearing suction cups like bottomless pits, while others were armed with barbs.

    This being looked simr to the legendary serpent women of the Harmony Divine Pce. Yet, it was fundamentally different.

    The serpent women were human, even purely human.@@novelbin@@

    But this old man with a tentacled lower body was not human; he was a demon.

    The tentacles indicated he might be a sea demon, but that was misleading. The suction cups on his tentacles brimmed with a terrifying power of deathly resentment.

    He was, in fact, a resentment demon.

    "The Blue Necrosquid demon tribe..."

 Chapter 954: The Blue Necrosquid Demon Tribe!

    Si Ji had heard of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe but had never actually seen them.

    Why was this demon tribe so notoriously feared in the Samsara Gxy?

    It was because they were the only known demons capable of generational propagation through their innate resentments.

    As was widely known, resentment demons were unique grudgese to life. Their core essence was the grudge itself, which typically couldn''t be reproduced.

    Take Pale Revenant and her kind; it was nearly impossible for them to bear offspring since they weren''t life forms in the conventional sense.@@novelbin@@

    But the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe was an exception!

    As resentment demons, not only could they reproduce, they could pass down their grudges from generation to generation.

    Furthermore, the essence of the Blue Necrosquid Demon Tribe¡¯s grudge was war and death. Born entirely from the malevolent aura of death, they thrived by absorbing all grudges rted to death, including the fear of death itself, which fueled their power.

    In essence, the more chaotic and bloodstained a region, the more it became a feast for the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe. They were like parasites, thriving on death and carnage, growing wildly powerful!This aspect was somewhat simr to corpse demons. But unlike them, the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe didn''t consume corpses nor lose their sanity. Their will was strong and lucid; they consumed the essence of death itself.

    And indeed, they consumed souls.

    After all, the soul was the part of death where emotions fluctuated most intensely and fear peaked.

    A resentment demon that could inherit and parasitize death was a source of terror throughout the Samsara Gxy!

    Demons were often perceived as impulsive, brutal, and simple-minded. But the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe was cunning, crafty, and full of tricks.

    In more ttering terms, they were quite clever.

    As such, wherever the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe took charge, they easily manipted and controlled other demons, bing the hidden mainstream power!

    In the entire Samsara Gxy, no other group of resentment demons formed such a cohesive and dominantmunity as the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe.

    "The Blue Necrosquid demon tribe¡­" Si Ji narrowed her eyes slightly.

    The Heavenly Demon Ster River was precisely the stronghold of the Blue Necrosquid Demon Tribe.

    It was said that the Blue Necrosquid Demon Tribe had a presence in every Ster River, especially in regions gued by warfare and strife!

    Si Ji didn''t know which old demon of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe she was dealing with. But from their first eye contact, she felt a chilling wariness.

    Apanying the Violet Dragon Emperor, it was clear he was one of the key supporters of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm!

    This support was profoundly disturbing!

    Even more revolting to Si Ji was the sight of this vile creature holding a beauty in his arms.

    This was the fourth person in the Boundless Chamber. She looked very young, her skin was soft and pale, and her eyes and hair were also pure white. wless from head to toe, she radiated a misty, gem-like quality.

    "Mist Empress..."

    This woman, known as the Mist Empress, was the sect leader of the Grieving Spirit Valley. She was a rare type of mist demon.

    She had also participated in the recent assassination attempt on Yun Xiao.

    Now, shey curled up like a little bird in the arms of the old Blue Necrosquid demon, nibbling on her fingertip while giving Si Ji a haunting gaze with her ghostly eyes.

    The old demon¡¯s hands and tentacles wrapped tightly around her, particrly those with suckers seemed to cling onto her, and others with barbs whose reach was unknown, causing the Mist Empress to twist and turn, entranced.

    This pair of demons was bizarrely unsettling. Nearby, the Violet Dragon Emperor and the Corpse Cloud Emperor seemed to ignore the scene, smirking coldly at Si Ji.

    It was as if they were taunting her, letting her know that it didn''t matter if she had be a Boundless Immortal. With the Dragon Ancestor and this old Blue Necrosquid demon, she waspletely outmatched.

    Not a word was spoken, but the threats, oppression, and sneers were palpable.

    ¡°Look.¡±

    The Violet Dragon Emperor suddenly pointed upwards to the screen showing what was going on in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto and chuckled. ¡°We¡¯ve caught a littlemb."

    Si Ji looked up to see a very blurry image on the disy, where numerous resentment demons emitted strange, shrill cries, surrounding a girl who looked as helpless as a white rabbit!

    The girl was panicked, with nowhere to run.

    Vaguely, Si Ji spotted a Blue Necrosquid demon simr to the old one but younger¡ªa juvenile Blue Necrosquid!

    Tentacles, suckers, and barbs... He was truly disgusting! The most revolting was the aura of death that emanated from him.

    When his tentacles spread out fully, seen from below, they resembled a blue flower of death, blooming recklessly.

    ¡°Sending a flying talisman, are we? Who shalle to rescue this little rabbit?¡± the Violet Dragon Emperor mused, his eyes lingering on Si Ji with a sinister smile.

    Beside him, the Corpse Cloud Emperor shrugged, amused. ¡°Some people really shouldn¡¯t send their treasures into the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. Isn¡¯t that just asking for a shorter life?¡±

    Upon hearing this, Si Ji clenched the armrests tightly, her brows furrowing deeply as anger boiled within her.

    She hadn''t expected that even as a Boundless Immortal, she would still feel so powerless!

    These people, with their connections and backers, one after another, formed a suffocating web over the world!

    Would this ever end?

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Buzzing sounds filled the air as Zu Xi led the way, with Yun Xiao and others heading towards the Imperial Celestial Hignds.

    Yun Xiao did not know where the Imperial Celestial Hignds were, but fortunately, Zu Xi had studied them thoroughly and proved useful.

    Even so, precisely locating a spot within the Ancestor Immortal Grotto was challenging, and Zu Xi was visibly sweating from the tension and frustration.

    "The Ancestor Immortal Grotto allows confrontations, but using someone as a threat is truly despicable," said Zu Xi as he clenched his teeth.

    "The resentment demons can gather through their collective resentment. Surely, there''s arge number of them waiting for us... It''s not that I''m unwilling to help, but this mission is perilous! With the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe and a coalition of resentment demons, even the prodigies from other Ster Rivers would be fearful," Mu Xihe said with a pale face.

    "Although we''ve been long-standing rivals with the Elysian Immortal Pce, Yun Lingchen is a good girl. No matter the danger, we must go..." Zu Xi continued searching while ncing back at Yun Xiao, adding, "Besides, we have him!"

    Knowing Yun Xiao''s formidable abilities was one thing, but thinking about the strength of the resentment demons still made Mu Xihe anxious.

    "Is he angry?" Mu Xihe discreetly asked her husband.

    "I don''t know; it''s hard to tell... Yun Xiao is their target. But with Yun Lingchen having the backing of a Boundless Immortal, I suppose she should be fine," Zu Xi replied.

    "Okay!" Mu Xihe nodded.

    After a moment of silence, Zu Xi suddenly brightened up, turning back to say, "Found a trail! It¡¯s about 100 miles ahead, straight to the Imperial Celestial Hignds!"

    "Good! Let''s go first." Upon hearing this, Yun Xiao didn''t hesitate for a moment. He pulled Feng Yao onto the Sovereign Sword, and the two of them, riding the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, sped past Zu Xi in a straight line.

    <em>VROOM! </em>They disappeared in an instant.

    Zu Xi was momentarily stunned.

    They were too fast to catch up.

    This meant that Yun Xiao and Feng Yao were going to face the prodigies of the Heavenly Demon Ster River alone, without intending to rely on anyone''s help.

    Even so, Zu Xi said, "Hurry, let''s catch up!"

    As they approached the battlefield, their hearts began to pound with anticipation.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    <em>VROOM! </em>Yun Xiao sliced through the wind with the Sovereign Sword!

    Feng Yao, slightly bent over, held onto his waist, hiding behind him.

    "Do youe with a buffer?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    Feng Yao paused, and somewhat speechlessly responded, "At a time like this, you''re still in the mood to flirt?"

    "What time is it?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Your little white rabbit is in danger!" Feng Yao said.

    "She''s not in danger. They''re only after us," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Fine!" Feng Yao suddenly pinched him and bit her lip, scolding, "So I say she¡¯s your little white rabbit, and you just agree?"

    "..." Yun Xiao fell silent. He suddenly moved, pulling her to the front, pushing her down, and then kissed her!

    "Oof!" Feng Yao, caught by the kiss, turned as red as a cooked shrimp.

    In the area ahead, shrouded in celestial mist, a crowd of resentment demons suddenly widened their eyes, watching as the young man on the Sovereign Sword kissed the beauty unabashedly as they entered the scene.

    "Damn!"

    The demons had been holding back harsh words for so long, only to be left speechless.<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 955: Frying Some Squid!

    Once again, the Million Starlight Pce was the center of upheaval.

    Were the demons from the Heavenly Demon Ster River actually kidnapping Yun Lingchen from the Elysian Immortal Pce, forcing Yun Xiao to intervene?

    This situation seemed quite peculiar to the denizens of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    Historically, the Elysian Immortal Pce had been closely aligned with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, and considering the rtionship between the Heavenly Deity Ster River and the Southern Divine Dragon Realm¡­ weren¡¯t the demons and Yun Lingchen on the same side?

    And wasn¡¯t Yun Xiao, representing the Harmony Divine Pce, supposed to be their enemy?

    Yet now, Yun Xiao and Feng Yao were rushing to save the young princess of the Elysian Immortal Pce.

    Did this imply that the Elysian Immortal Pce was now leaning towards the Harmony Divine Pce?

    The crowd was abuzz with spection, all eyes on Yun Sheng, Wan Ji, and others. Their interactions seemed ordinary at a nce, but they couldn''t help but fuel wild theories.

    Nothing seemed to be making sense!Given the power dynamics and backgrounds of the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Harmony Divine Pce, even if thetter had gained immense power, it seemed unlikely for the Elysian Immortal Pce to switch sides so abruptly.

    So, the kidnapping of Yun Lingchen felt particrly strange to the people of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    But Yun Xiao¡¯s rescue mission was a fact.

    In such times, people had to consider the broader implications for the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    ¡°These despicable demons!¡±

    ¡°The Southern Divine Dragon Realm has gotten too close to them, which isn¡¯t good. I fear they might betray the interests of the Heavenly Deity Ster River and be puppets of these demons!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s certainly possible¡­¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s hope Yun Xiao can handle this and teach these demons a harsh lesson! They¡¯ve been troubling us on the borders, encroaching on our territory for years!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s tough! These demons gather too quickly, each of them very powerful, all at or above the Fifth Baptism Realm, and there are many of them. How can Yun Xiao and Feng Yao alone take them on?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s like facing over 30 Young Dragon Lords at once.¡±

    ¡°And not just any! The Young Dragon Lords from the Dragon Devil ns are in the Early Fifth Baptism Realm. But these demons are terrifyingly strong, many in the Mid, Late, or even the Perfect stage!¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s more exaggerated is that there might be some in the Sixth Baptism Realm!¡±

    ¡°The Sixth Baptism Realm, that¡¯s the level of my master¡¯s master. I can''t imagine it. Not even 50 years old and close to the status of a Heavenly Monarch, how terrifying¡­¡±

    As the conflict escted to a sh between Ster Rivers, Yun Xiao, despite the slim odds, garnered significant support from the disciples and powerhouses of the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    With the Ster River as a boundary, even though Yun Xiao came from the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm, he was considered one of their own!

    In contrast, the demons, being outsiders of their Ster River, only had the Dragon Devil n, who were known for forming alliances everywhere, possibly siding with them.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, take down those little beasts!¡±

    Voices erupted within the Heavenly Deity Ster River area of the Million Starlight Pce.

    To prevent interster conflicts, the seating for the Heavenly Deity Ster River area was positioned quite far from the center.

    Yet, even from a distance, the sinisterughter of the group of demons could be faintly heard, their cruel and cold chuckles exerting immense pressure on the Heavenly Deity Ster River side.

    The cultivators could only withstand this pressure, gritting their teeth as they stared at the blurry starlight screen, anxiously awaiting the oue.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, Yun Xiao¡¯s cold gaze swept over the demons, his brow furrowing.

    They numbered many, exactly 33!

    Such gathering speed was indeed astonishing, likely unmatched elsewhere in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    This was a specialty of the demons, but the problem was there were only 33 demons.

    ¡°Where is Yun Lingchen?¡± Yun Xiao asked coolly.

    ¡°Want to see her?¡± a chilling voice replied.

    Yun Xiao looked towards the group of demons.

    The demons parted to create a path, revealing a young man dressed in blue with pale skin. He was tall and slender, his eyes sunken, giving him a somewhat unhealthy appearance, and his body radiated a cold aura.

    His lower half consisted of white tentacles, five to six feet long, with dozens of them¡ªhalf equipped with suction cups, the other half with sharp spikes.@@novelbin@@

    The tentacles with suction cups exuded an aura of death, while those with spikes resembled rigid steel whips.

    His pale lips, tongue, and lifeless eyes only added to the eerie impression he made.

    Clearly, he was also a demon, but distinctly different from the others. Yun Xiao couldn¡¯t immediately tell what set him apart.

    Nheless, there was no denying the significant threat he posed.

    Yun Xiao furrowed his brow and addressed the peculiar demon. ¡°I''m here as promised. Let her go. If you have any grievances, direct them at me. There¡¯s no need to harm the innocent.¡±

    The blue-robed demon, bathed in a vortex of death, stared with vacant, zombie-like eyes, but itsughter was chilling as it said, "Cross here and move forward, and you''ll see her. The problem is¡ª"

    "What''s the problem?" Yun Xiao asked, almost amused.

    "The problem is, you can¡¯t get past here," the blue-robed demon replied with a coldugh.

    It was clear that this trap was indeed set for Yun Xiao, and the demon was cunning, keeping Yun Lingchen out of sight to maintain leverage over Yun Xiao.

    Should anything unexpected ur, it could still use her to continue threatening him.

    ¡°Necrosquids!¡±

    Just then, Zu Xi and four others caught up, spotting the assembled demons, including one from the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe. Their expressions turned grave, tinged with nervousness.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Yun Xiao asked.

    ¡°Death demons capable of breeding and session,mon across many Ster Rivers. They like to lurk behind the scenes, controlling everything. The Heavenly Demon Ster River is now one of their strongholds... But they usually don¡¯t attend the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects,¡± said Zu Xi as he gritted his teeth.

    The Necrosquid''s actions, indeed different from other demons and devils, frustrated Yun Xiao with his trickery.

    ¡°Yun Xiao, don¡¯t act yet. Let me negotiate with him to see if we can release Yun Lingchen first. If we can, then you can look for a chance to escape,¡± Zu Xi quickly said.

    ¡°No need,¡± Yun Xiao replied, his response short and decisive as he headed straight towards the group of demons.

    Feng Yao, without a second thought, followed him, then quickened her pace to walk beside him. She felt it added to their imposing presence.

    ¡°No need?¡± Zu Xi was momentarily at a loss for words.

    Were the two overly confident? Did they not realize how troublesome these 33 demons were?

    ¡°Should we help?¡± Mu Xihe asked in a low, tense voice.

    ¡°Let¡¯s watch for a moment. If they can¡¯t hold on¡­¡± Zu Xi started.

    ¡°If they can¡¯t hold on, we retreat?¡± Mu Xihe interrupted.

    Zu Xi gave her a look and said, ¡°This is a conflict between two great Ster Rivers; how can we retreat? If those two can¡¯t hold on, we¡¯ll have to step in!¡±

    Mu Xihe, seeing that the other three showed no intention of leaving, relented. She knew their ability to distract the enemies was limited and wouldn¡¯t change the overall tide of battle.

    "Among the 33 demons, the one called Squidit from the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe, was suspected to be at the Sixth Baptism Realm. He''s on par with an Ancestral Sage from our Ancestral Land," Mu Xihe said, her face paling slightly.

    "Let''s see," Zu Xi said, gripping her hand, his heart racing.

    Across from Zu Xi and Mu Xihe, the other 32 demons gathered around Squidit. Although they mostly had human forms, they were bizarre and eerily grotesque.

    "What is this human doing?" a demon asked. It had a gold bracelet around its neck, wrapped in a golden mist. Its body was very solid, and the voices of those driven to death by greed could be heard emanating from it.

    "He wants to directly suppress us and force us to lead him to Yun Lingchen," Squidit said, the corners of his mouth curling slightly.

    "So arrogant," another demon beside Squiditmented.

    This demon resembled a person surrounded by curtains, its interior empty except for countless pale mes.

    Gold Bracelet, and me Curtain... These demons born from greed and lustful desires were among the strongest of the Heavenly Demon Ster River.

    Besides these two, Squidit was apanied by Toxic Tears, a demon formed of countless teardrops, as well as Wood Grudge, Blood Tomb, Weeper, and many others with frightening and bizarre appearances.

    Weeper, in particr, resembled a pitiful little girl in tattered clothes. With an innocent face andrge, fearful eyes, she was constantly sobbing, causing great annoyance.

    These 33 demons, each unique and menacing, frightened Feng Yao a bit, causing her to instinctively hide behind Yun Xiao again.

    To her, Yun Xiao''s shoulders might not have been the broadest, but they sincerely gave a sense of security.

    Yun Xiao''s current defiance was, in itself, a significant provocation to the 33 demons!

    They had expected to see the young man bow his head, seek peace, or show some conciliatory behavior. Yet under such circumstances, he dared to confront 33 talented demons with just himself and one other?

    The young demon from the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe narrowed his dark blue eyes and coldly pointed, saying, "Take this Supreme Yin Cauldron, but don''t damage it. I''ll have my fun with him."

    "Yes!"

    The 32 obedient demons transformed into their demonic forms¡ªstrange, bizarre, indescribable forms¡ªand spread out, encircling Yun Xiao and Feng Yao in a hellish trap.

    "I''ll go grill up some squid, you handle the rest. Can you hold them off?" Yun Xiao turned to ask Feng Yao.

    Feng Yao responded in shock, "Are you crazy? Of course, I can''t hold them off!"

    "Good, just hold them off slowly then," Yun Xiao said.

    "What?" Feng Yao was bbergasted.

    Was he even human? There were 33 opponents and he assigned only one to himself?

    Heroes usually saved the damsel in distress. But here he was, using the damsel as a shield!

    Before Feng Yao could react, the audacious young man blinked and vanished from sight!

 Chapter 956: One Arrow Spreading Death!

    In the next instant, Yun Xiao, with his determined grip, charged out of the area alongside Squidit!

    Of course, it wasn''t that Squidit was forced back by him; rather, he immediately recognized Yun Xiao''sbat strategy and decided to go along with it!

    After all, that meant the remaining 32 Fifth Baptism Realm resentment demons could capture Feng Yao.

    From Squidit''s perspective, Feng Yao was crucial to Yun Xiao. If she were endangered, it would also affect Yun Xiao''sbat effectiveness.

    Squidit considered this the best strategic choice!

    "Damn! Jerk!" Feng Yao, furious, her face flushed and her chest heaving, cursed him 10,000 times in her heart.

    Yet even so, she didn''t let the danger and murderous intent spread to the others but gritted her teeth and stood firm!

    Her body suddenly transformed into a streak of blood light, like a small sea of blood with a flickering sensation. In an instant, she broke free from the encirclement of the demons!

    "As a qualified archer, although I excel in closebat, I should still keep my distance..."Otherwise, she¡¯d becking professional integrity!

    Feng Yao held her breath!

    In the next moment, with her slender, fiery body, she rode her Blood Spirit Dragon Corona, like a warrior archer on the battlefield, galloping at high speed, continuously widening the gap while firing arrows!

    Her power as a Fifth Baptism Realm archer was inherently superior to these demons in terms of the quality and depth of her tribtion power.

    And her current Mid Fifth Baptism Realm cultivation actually matched most of these demons.

    With her nimble speed and powerful bow drawing... Not to mention the power, the curves, the posture, and the rhythmic sway of her waist and hips were explosive.

    However, what truly shocked everyone were the two supreme celestial treasures in her hands!

    Bloodfiend Jade Dragon Bow!

    Eight Trigrams Dragon-ying Arrows!

    "The celestial treasures of the Blood Dragon Emperor!"

    These godly weapons of one of the eight Dragon Emperors was now held in the hands of someone they viewed as mere prey.

    Everyone could guess how Feng Yao came to possess these two celestial treasures.

    This was a profound disgrace to the Dragon Devil n.

    However, the bigger question was how could she wield them?

    "Huff huff!"

    The 32 resentment demons, each filled with bitterness and a chilling shriek, had also seen these two celestial treasures and were sufficiently intimidated by their divine might...

    But in the world of demons, the word <em>fear</em> did not exist!

    They let out even more chilling shrieks and chased after Feng Yao from all directions, casting various types of ghostly and demon magic at her!

    "Damn it, everyone''s picking on me, huh?"

    Watching these twisted, crazed, ferocious demons, Feng Yao felt the world''s brutality was all concentrated in them, and her annoyance only grew. She muttered to herself, "You rush off to save the cute little bunny, leaving me to handle the big trouble.

    "I''ll shoot you all down, you trash!" Feng Yao summoned her Sanguine Spirit Dragon and put some distance between herself and her enemies.

    mping her slender legs around the dragon, she twisted her torso, fully drawing the Bloodfiend Jade Dragon Bow in a cascade of shimmering light. The Eight Trigrams Dragon-ying Arrows were all loaded at once!

    The bow and arrows resonated with eight consecutive dragon roars. At that moment, Feng Yao became one with her dragon, bow, and arrows. The immense power of her Fifth Baptism Realm cultivation exploded around her, stirring up a vast sea of blood!

    Such divine might shattered the battlefield! Only then did those within and outside the Ancestor Immortal Grotto remember that Feng Yao was also an incredible force to be reckoned with!

    Previously, Feng Yao was known for her Boundless Immortal talent. But such talent was not umon in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto and was not considered too extraordinary.

    But now, with her tribtion power erupting, she showed everyone across the starry expanse her distinctiveness!

    "A bunch of dead flies!" Feng Yao cursed vehemently, channeling all her power into the Eight Trigrams Dragon ying Arrows in her hands!

    With the release of these eight arrows, countless onlookers gasped!

    They were not shot with a rapid sh; instead, they seemed to move slowly!

    However, they appeared like a painting in mid-air, each arrow like a brush¡ªa brush of blood!

    Wherever the brush passed, it drew a line of blood!

    These blood lines, like the veins of the heavens and earth, continuously intersected and weaved together into a dense of blood that resembled the entire vascr system of a dragon!

    "The Southern Divine Bloodline Archery!"

    Gasps erupted throughout the Million Starlight Pce.

    It was one thing to master the celestial treasures! But how had she managed to learn someone else''s secret technique in such a short time?

    What kind of genius was this?

    If this were Yun Xiao, it would already be enough to make one''s scalp tingle. But Feng Yao''s disy of talent now made the enemies of the Harmony Divine Pce truly realize the peril of allowing this pair of monsters to grow.

    With eight arrows shot, a divine dragon''s blood spread, instantly enveloping the 32 resentment demons!

    Among them, those at the forefront¡ªGold Bracelet, me Curtain, Weeper, Toxic Tears, and Blood Tomb¡ªall bore the brunt of Feng Yao''s ferocious attack!

    The blood dragon''s veins swallowed them up, with at least a dozen demons caught in the blood!

    "Many celestial treasures aren''t actually very effective against these demons...!"

    Just as many were contemting the limited effectiveness of celestial treasures against demons, they witnessed Feng Yao''s devastating attack.

    The Eight Trigrams Dragon-ying Arrows that formed the blood were prating, slicing, and inflicting fatal wounds on the demons!

    Gold Bracelet and me Curtain were pierced and shredded into pieces!

    Even Toxic Tears that fell like poisonous rain turned blood-red and rapidly evaporated! Not to mention the tangible forms of Weeper and Wood Grudge.@@novelbin@@

    No matter the type of demon, none could withstand Feng Yao''s Mortal Dust Devil Blood!

    The Southern Divine Bloodline Archery wreaked havoc, leaving behind a scene of sttered blood and wailing souls.

    Any blood spilled was immediately refined by Feng Yao!

    After those eight arrows, the area turned into a battlefield of carnage, where the previously ferocious demons nowy dead or wounded, with the survivors retreating in terror!

    The close observers, like Zu Xi and Mu Xihe, initially paled at the scene but were utterly dumbfounded by this disy.

    Their fists clenched, they suddenly felt a sense of pride, for this was a rare victory of a genius from the Heavenly Deity Ster River over the Heavenly Demon Ster River!

    Such an incredible, morale-boosting feat for the entire starry river!

    "I can only imagine how everyone in the Million Starlight Pce and the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River must be feeling right now!" Zu Xi eximed.

    "This pair of extraordinary beings will increasingly be revered in the hearts of the cultivators from the Heavenly Deity Ster River. In contrast, the Dragon Demon race seems to stand against the Ster River this time..." Mu Xihe said meaningfully.

    "Right! But let''s not call them monsters anymore. They are truly a celestial couple, a perfect match!" Qin Feng also eximed in admiration.

    "A match where the woman is bigger and older?" Li Xuan said with a mischievousugh.

    "You know nothing. Where is Yun Xiaocking? It¡¯s said he rivals the Young Dragon Lords, famously known as the Three-legged Sword Immortal!" Wang Chenughed.

    Theirughter signified relief. If Feng Yao could single-handedly contend against these 32 resentment demons, what did Yun Xiao have to fear against one Blue Necrosquid?

    They guessed right; the Million Starlight Pce was indeed astir.

    Even Feng Yao herself was unaware of her own lethal power.

    "What?"

    Seeing her arrows kill so many demons, she abruptly stopped her flight, turned her dragon around, and bit her lip, saying, "Had I known I was this strong, why would I have fled? You weaklings! The Archery Goddess has arrived! Tremble before me!"<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 957: 5,000 Sword & Rune Prisons!

    After Feng Yao unleashed her arrows, any of the resentment demons not killed were at least badly wounded!

    A wave of shouts swept over the MIllion Starlight Pce. The excitement swelled like a tidal wave from all directions, crashing into the central Samsara Hall. The praises for Feng Yao were distinctly audible among them.

    Within this chorus, the talented resentment demons of the Heavenly Demon Ster River became mere backdrops and stepping stones, their previously heaven-defying images instantly torn apart.

    "Ah, my disciple really doesn¡¯t know her own strength; she just killed several of the top geniuses from the Heavenly Demon Ster River in one go," Si Ji said with an exasperated smile, touching her forehead. She then cast a lingering nce at the opposing Boundless Chamber.

    It was clear to see that the aloof expressions of the Violet Dragon Emperor, Corpse Cloud Emperor, and Mist Empress were now slightly contorted, looking quite unsightly.

    Meanwhile, the old Blue Necrosquid remainedposed, even meditating with his eyes closed, his tentacles causing the Mist Empress to continuously whimper.

    "Drop the high and mighty act already. This conflict never concerned you in the first ce. Yet, you still chose to step up and shield those worms. Now, your own geniuses have ended up dead!" Si Ji taunted. Her temperament was indeed not the best, nor was she known for her diplomacy, often being quite blunt.

    "Cough, cough!" Zu Xinchen, standing nearby, coughed nervously as a reminder. After all, the Heavenly Demon Ster River, being more united, was stronger than the Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    Although the Heavenly Demon Ster River was taking action against the Harmony Divine Pce on behalf of the Dragon Devil n, the smarter move for the Harmony Divine Pce would be to focus on the Southern Divine Dragon Realm instead of antagonizing an even more formidable opponent!That was the logical approach, but taking the logical approach when actively being provoked was quite difficult!

    Si Ji was unwilling to grovel before the Heavenly Demon Ster River, begging them not to intervene in her conflict with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm.

    Her cold words pointed directly at the Heavenly Demon Ster River, causing the Corpse Cloud Emperor''s eyebrows to furrow, while the Violet Dragon Emperor could barely contain his glee, almost bursting intoughter.

    Originally, the Violet Dragon Emperor was concerned about how to keep the Heavenly Demon Ster River on his side and further strengthen their alliance. But the situation seemed to pivot favorably without him needing to lift a finger.

    With Si Ji provoking this Boundless Immortal beside him, she was inadvertently dragging the entire Heavenly Demon Ster River into the life-or-death struggle between the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Harmony Divine Pce!

    Even though the Heavenly Demon Ster River was already supporting the Dragon Devil n, it was just lending a hand.

    All the Harmony Divine Pce had to do was endure a little. There was no need to resist so fiercely and even counterattack!

    This was exactly the scenario the Dragon Devil n wanted to see!

    Even Si Ji''sbeling of the Dragon Devil n as <em>worms</em> didn¡¯t seem to embarrass the Violet Dragon Emperor; he even felt like apuding her.

    Of course, outwardly, he had to show great anger, and coldly said to Si Ji, "Picking up a couple of geniuses and then getting too big for your boots? You kids may throw your weight around in the Heavenly Deity Ster River. But to be so brazen against the Heavenly Demon Ster River, you clearly don¡¯t know the meaning of <em>death</em>!"

    "That¡¯s still better than one of the top three powers of the Heavenly Deity Ster River acting like dogs for others," Si Ji retorted.

    The Violet Dragon Emperor paused, visibly angered this time.

    "Further discussion is pointless," the Cloud Corpse Emperor said, shaking his head and looking towards the screen, indifferently adding, "Let the rightful heir of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe handle this."

    "It¡¯s time this insolent girl learned a deep, bone-chilling lesson," the Violet Dragon Emperor sneered.

    "Newly ascended to a Boundless Immortal and yet as naive as a child, as foolish as a greenhorn, it''s quiteughable¡­ Ahh¡­!" the Mist Empressmented, before letting out another soft moan.

    Their gaze towards Si Ji mirrored the way people previously viewed Yun Xiao¡ªas a naive fool, making enemies everywhere.

    But Yun Xiao had proved himself countless times because he was genuinely formidable. How would Si Ji prove herself?

    It was simple. The Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects was the stage for the new generation, and Si Ji''s pride was built on Yun Xiao¡¯s shoulders!

    His performance now, especially during the conflict with the Heavenly Demon Ster River, was crucial!

    "The young heir of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe..." Si Ji looked up, her eyes locked on the twobatants on the screen.

    And Si Ji was not alone; hundreds of millions of spectators in the Million Starlight pce were watching the stand-off!

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?.

    Back in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, after Feng Yao ferociously eliminated several resentment demons, the remaining ones, far from being intimidated, became even more vicious and charged!

    They were demons!

    And once they closed in, they still had a great chance ofpletely oveing Feng Yao!

    Despite their injuries, the remaining resentment demons, driven by their pain and fury, let out fierce, eerie screams. They unleashed various types of demon magic, charging at Feng Yao with the unique characteristics of resentment demons.

    "Damn it! You won''t learn until you see the coffin! Watch how I shoot you to death!" Feng Yao coldlyughed, her confidence surging as she plunged back into the fierce battle.

    "Little Yun, you¡¯re not up to speed! I¡¯m almost done here, and you haven¡¯t even handled one squid!"

    She deliberately taunted Yun Xiao, reallyying on the pressure in her characteristically arrogant style.

    This boastful attitude, this style, was indeed very simr to Yun Xiao¡¯s, leading people to describe them as having a couple''s resemnce!@@novelbin@@

    While Feng Yao wreaked havoc riding a dragon, Yun Xiao held back, observing the Blue Necrosquid in front of him with curiosity.

    "These resentment demons, born from death and chaos, may seem to have endured hardships but are actually incarnations of extreme malevolence, living undead, demonic beings with human faces," Yun Xiao remarked.

    The resentment demon before him, floating like a kite, was a member of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe. It existed between solid and spectral forms. Its upper body, more ethereal, embodied resentment, while its tentacles below represented greed and destruction.

    The suckers represented greed, and the barbs represented destruction.

    These resentment demons, embodying both greed and destruction, lived only to pige and seize by force; it was their very nature. Any resistance would undoubtedly lead to destruction.

    In some ways, they were simr to Yun Xiao, yet their methods and standards for achievement were diametrically opposed.

    "Have you seen enough?"

    The tentacles beneath Squidit slowly raised, surrounding his upper, spectral humanoid form, like a spirit in a prison struggling, howling, and filled with venom, intently staring at Yun Xiao.

    Rarely seen performing at the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe''s infamous reputation instilled fear in all beings elsewhere. So, the presence of Squidit in the Million Starlight Pce stirred unease among the spectators.

    Despite Feng Yao dominating the other resentment demons, no one dared to assume that Yun Xiao could defeat this specter of death from the rumors.

    "Do your kind represent death?" Yun Xiao suddenly asked.

    Squidit, with his hollow, unfathomable eyes, responded deeply, "Wrong, to be precise, we are death itself!"

    "That¡¯s fortunate," Yun Xiao replied, a sword and a sigil appearing in his hands. He cheerfully added, "My sword feasts on death, and my sigil purifies death."

    Then, he materialized his Buddha''s Treasure Spirit, which was seated atop a ck and gold lotus, and continued, "My spirit also liberates from death."

    "They all smell wonderful," Squidit remarked, his lips curling slightly, hinting that these measures were but food to him.

    However, the next moment, he clearly saw that Yun Xiao¡¯s sword and sigil were backed by 5,000 Sword Prisons and 5,000 Rune Prisons!

    Such a number was nearly at the level of a powerhouse in the Eighth Baptism Realm!

    How could such a young man possess such a terrifying Sword Soul and Life Sigil?

    How did he absorb them, and how did he manage to sustain them?

    The answery in the Golden Dragon Emperor and Blood Dragon Emperor¡ªneither their Sword Soul nor Life Sigil had gone to waste.

    Si Ji had recognized Yun Xiao as a monstrous anomaly only after witnessing him consume the resources of these two Dragon Emperors.

    And Yun Xiao wasn''t limited to his Sword Soul and Life Sigil.

    His Buddha''s Treasure Spirit had liberated countless super geniuses from the Heavenly Deity Ster River. Those talents had now transformed into Buddha''s Treasures. All of their memories, experiences, and insights converged upon his spirit, rendering his soul power outrageously strong,parable to the 5,000 Sword and Rune Prisons!

    Squidit''s brow furrowed deeply as his tentacles swirled around his body more fiercely.

    "You¡¯ve be even more appetizing, stirring up my appetite... This kind of desire, I¡¯ve never experienced before..."

 Chapter 959: Sword, Sigil, & Soul, Three Counters!

    Yun Xiao had instantly turned the tables on Squidit, grilling him up into cmari in the Supreme Dragon Cauldron.

    When the hundreds of millions of onlookers in the Million Starlight Pce witnessed this reversal, they were once again left breathless.

    Yun Xiao was a total freak. They had nothing left to say about this monster.

    One by one, the top prodigies of the Heavenly Demon Ster River had been trampled underfoot like dog feces. After several such instances, even the audience had be numb!

    What was different about this scene, where Yun Xiao grilled the squid, was the varied reactions.

    The ordinary cultivators didn''t find anything too unusual, but the stronger and more powerful ones werepletely overwhelmed with shock!

    Why was there such a difference? Clearly, it was because ordinary cultivatorscked sufficient understanding of the mysterious Blue Necrosquid demon tribe''s ability to conceal themselves.

    The more one understood, the more awe one felt!

    And the way Yun Xiao had crushed Squidit in such an exaggerated manner allowed discerning individuals to see that this battle contained a terrifying and sensational issue!From the direction of the Samsara Hall, in the Boundless Chamber opposite Si Ji, the old Blue Necrosquid, alwaysposed, had suddenly stood up!

    Even the Mist Empress on him had been thrown to the ground.@@novelbin@@

    The Violet Dragon Emperor and Corpse Cloud Emperor instinctively stepped back several paces, as they could deeply feel the horror of this old Blue Necrosquid at that moment!

    It was like an enraged blue vortex, staring fixedly at the Supreme Dragon Cauldron on the screen!

    The eyes that had just opened started to spin like the samsara, leaking a fierce and vicious color.

    His tentacles tensed, wrapping around themselves, making a sharp snapping sound, with each sucker seemingly exhaling a violent killing intent!

    The Violet Dragon Emperor, Corpse Cloud Emperor, and Mist Empress had never seen the old Necrosquid disying such an enraged and deranged state.

    For a moment, all three had dared not make a sound, asforting him wrongly might spell their own doom!

    Clearly, there were other Boundless Immortals within the Samsara Hall, including the Left Emperor of the Heavenly Deity Ster River Dynasty, but they all remained calm, silently watching the unfolding drama without a word.

    But their gazes spoke volumes¡­

    Si Ji saw it too! She saw it most clearly. The old Necrosquid''s reaction to the defeat of Squidit was even greater than she had anticipated.

    "Yun Xiao seems topletely counter the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe in terms of sword, sigil, and soul," Zu Xinchen suddenly said in a low voice.

    "Mhm¡­" Si Ji hummed softly. Although her attitude seemed cold, anyone could hear the satisfaction in her voice, as well as a sense of pride in her own cherished belongings.

    "I wonder if it only counters that individual, or if it has a significant impact on the entire Blue Necrosquid demon tribe?" Zu Xinchen added.

    "Why ask so many questions?" Si Ji replied.

    "It doesn¡¯t matter if I ask or not, the entire Blue Necrosquid demon tribe will be asking, and I suspect they already have their answers," Zu Xinchen said.

    "So?"

    "Yun Xiao''s future situation will be extremely dangerous. Both the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe and Dragon Devil n will want him dead. The Dragon Devil n already dwarfs the Harmony Divine Pce in terms of military might by several times.

    "The influence of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe also extends beyond the Heavenly Demon Ster River. Even by a conservative estimate, I''d say it''s at least ten times that of the Dragon Devil n, with some rumours saying that their power ranks within the top three of the entire Samsara Gxy¡­" Zu Xinchen stopped there.

    After all, Si Ji was aware of these matters; he was merely reminding her.

    Si Ji pursed her lips, her excitement somewhat diminished, and then said, "It doesn''t matter anymore. Some enemies won''t spare us just because we bow our heads."

    "..." Zu Xinchen nodded.

    Even if Yun Xiao hadn''t killed Squidit, it wouldn''t have affected the Heavenly Demon Ster River''s assistance to the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. Even if the Harmony Divine Pce could ovee the challenge posed by the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe would ensure the Dragon Devil n''s victory, inevitably getting involved sooner orter.

    Their power had long been consolidated, and they had already set a trap for the Harmony Divine Pce from which there was no escape.

    In such a scenario, the only option left was to fight back desperately. Kneeling and begging for mercy would also end in death, perhaps even more brutally.

    "If the Southern Divine Dragon Realm decides to go to war, will the Ancestral Land, Elysian Immortal Pce, and other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance support the Harmony Divine Pce ording to the alliance''s treaty?" Si Ji turned her head and looked at Zu Xinchen.

    Zu Xinchen hadn''t expected her to ask so directly, truly reflecting her limited worldly experience.

    But then again, there was a benefit to being straightforward. At least as a man, when Si Ji was direct, it made it awkward for Zu Xinchen to beat around the bush.

    So Zu Xinchen replied, "Honestly, it''s difficult. If it were just the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, we might intervene. But the current problem is that the Dragon Devil n have publicly dered their strategic partnership with the Heavenly Demon Ster River, which serves as a warning and deterrence to us.

    "Once the Heavenly Deity Ster River enters the fray, our losses would be substantial. The most troublesome part is that the Heavenly Demon Ster River isn''t the endpoint; the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe is spread throughout the Samsara Gxy, and they are more significant than the Heavenly Demon Ster River. If a few more Ster Rivers get involved..."

    "From what you¡¯re saying, people like me, Yun Xiao, and Yao Yao are destined to be sacrifices, doomed to a tragic fate, and destined to be abandoned by the Heavenly Deity Ster River, treated as flesh to be cut away," Si Ji said, suppressing her anger.

    Zu Xinchen, speechless, shook his head and said, "There¡¯s no way around it. From the <em>exnation</em> incident earlier with the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, the extent of protection the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe provides to the Dragon Devil n exceeds our expectations. They are titans across the Ster Rivers in the Samsara Gxy; you know how powerful they are."

    "Have you ever considered this? Are the Dragon Devil n the kind to ever be satisfied? They''re as greedy as the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe! Today, you abandon the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm; in the future, they will inevitably extend their greedy reach elsewhere, gradually devouring you piece by piece, slicing off chunks of the Heavenly Deity Ster River! If you don''t dare to resist, you''ll be consumed until death! That is truly the most tragic oue!

    "Don¡¯t say it couldn¡¯t happen. Both the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe and Southern Divine Dragon Realm are newly rising powers. Over the years, this is exactly how they have operated in other Ster Rivers. Though they¡¯ve only manipted things from behind the scenes and propped up puppet powers, their expansionist nature is no different!" Si Ji spoke fervently, her anger slightly rising.

    She was reluctant to state these facts, because Zu Xinchen, the Elysian Immortal Pce, and others surely understood them as well.

    "Yes, you¡¯re absolutely right," Zu Xinchen looked at Si Ji and paused before continuing, "We''ve never underestimated the greed of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe and Southern Divine Dragon Realm, nor their determination to swallow the entire Heavenly Deity Ster River.

    "However, the problem is that the entire Samsara Gxy is currently in chaos due to the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe. Their expansion is bound to provoke the true g-bearers of the other two major Ster Rivers, the ones actually moving the pieces in the Samsara Gxy. We can appeal to them, we can wait."

    Upon hearing this, Si Ji''s pupils shrank slightly, and she couldn¡¯t help but bow her head and sigh, "So, we are just cannon fodder that you can willingly sacrifice in order to buy time."

    "That¡¯s not exactly right to say." Zu Xinchen also sighed. "Right now, you are seen as a thorn in their side by your adversaries. Otherspletely fail to see a winning chance, and blindly taking a stance would result in many deaths, and would give the other side aplete excuse and banner to invade the Heavenly Deity Ster River, preventing those two chess yers from intervening... I hope you can understand our position of helplessness."

    Si Ji paused for a moment, then nodded, "I can understand."

    From the perspective of the Ancestral Land, taking a blind stance in support of the Harmony Divine Pce was indeed highly dangerous.

    Currently, the conflict was openly between the Southern Divine Dragon Realm and Harmony Divine Pce, and even if there were thews of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, others were most likely just watching.

    "But..." Zu Xinchen suddenly continued.

 Chapter 960: Blue And White Sword Ring!

    "But what?" Si Ji asked.

    Zu Xinchen looked towards the screen and said, "Ever since Yun Xiao and Feng Yao appeared, your Harmony Divine Pce has been undefeated. First suppressing the Southern Divine Dragon Realm, and now dominating the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe. Despite your decline, these two are brimming with endless hope. Everyone tends to think that the games of the youth are trivial and could never sway the grand scheme, but through these miracles, I can see your future.

    "I can honestly tell you, if you can hold on until we see a hope of contending with the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe through them, I believe all those who wish to defend the Heavenly Deity Ster River would choose to fight for this cause!"

    Zu Xinchen spoke with genuine earnestness and gravity. He knew Si Ji was not one for beating around the bush; she had a kind of purity that was rare in middle-aged people, a purity that made it difficult for Zu Xinchen to deceive her, especially since they were of the same age.

    After listening, Si Ji closed her eyes and remained silent for a while. Finally, she nodded and uttered a single word, "Good."

    The discussion about taking a stand concluded there.

    In this world, if you wanted others to desperately fight for you, you first had to have a light within you.

    This light could be hope, benefit, potential, and more. Otherwise, why should others dealing with their own problems sacrifice their lives for you?

    The Harmony Divine Pcecked any strong bonds with the other members of the Heavenly Deity Alliance, and it had its own blemishes as well. Such sects were always the first to be abandoned in times of crisis.Zu Xinchen made it crystal clear, fulfilling his moral obligation. He looked up at the enraged old Necrosquid...

    Its violent reaction foretold all the terrifying things toe.

    Zu Xinchen''s heart trembled slightly, and he couldn''t help but warn, "Personally, I think your path to survival doesn''t lie with you, but with these two monsters, especially Yun Xiao. Feng Yao is just his sidekick; Yun Xiao is the future archfiend of the Samsara Gxy. If you can protect his growth and he survives the vengeance of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe, then you have a chance to win! In short, do everything to protect him!"

    Si Ji snorted and said, "I already understood, no need to spell it out."

    "Uh..." Zu Xinchen fell silent, thinking to himself, "A thousand years old, yet still with the heart of a child. That¡¯s rare in its own way..."

    During Zu Xinchen and Si Ji''s sincere conversation, from within the opposite Boundless Chamber, the old Necrosquid spoke in a gravely, aged voice to the Corpse Cloud Emperor, "This child must not be allowed to survive half a day. Send a message to the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, let all my minions spare no expense to kill him!"

    "Yes!" Realizing the gravity of the situation, the Corpse Cloud Emperor hurried off.

    ording to the rules of the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects, they obviously could not send messages inside the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. But rules always had loopholes, and the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe were experts at finding them.

    After the Corpse Cloud Emperor left, the atmosphere remained oppressively tense.

    Only the Violet Dragon Emperor, having realized the implications, could barely contain his glee.

    "His sword, sigil, and soul¡­ all perfect counters! Who would have thought that the terrifying Blue Necrosquid demon tribe would encounter a nemesis who nullifies them in these three aspects?

    "It¡¯s just too bad that this nemesis is still but a fledgling, and loves to show off, unting himself around as if he''s afraid of going unnoticed... In such a case, if the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe doesn¡¯t destroy him, who else would?"

    The Dragon Devil n was worried that the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe''s assistance wasn¡¯t resolute enough, potentially giving other sects like the Elysian Immortal Pce hope.

    Now everything was perfect!

    Yun Xiao killing a member of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe was one thing. But he had directly exposed his heaven-defying ability to counter the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe!

    How could he not die now?

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm only wanted the Extreme Yin Celestial Realm and Supreme Yin Cauldron. Their stance towards Yun Xiao was the same as that of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe. He had to die! The sooner, the better!

    The Violet Dragon Emperor was nearly mad withughter, yet he had to contain himself.

    "Little Violet," the old Necrosquid''s voice, like dry wood, suddenly called out.

    The Violet Dragon Emperor quickly knelt down and said, "Your junior is here!"

    "Quickly gather all information about this child, from his birth to the present, including all recordings from the Grand Assembly of Myriad Sects," the old Necrosquid instructed.

    "Yes! I will go immediately!" The Violet Dragon Emperor promptly took his leave.

    This arrangement made it clear how intense their intent to kill Yun Xiao was.

    "This kid is still tormenting us, unaware that he has now provoked a killing intent many times greater than that of the Dragon Devil n...

    "Those who are arrogant andwless will eventually cause great disasters. No matter how talented you are, if your wisdom does not match, you will ultimately meet a grave end!"

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    Back in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto¡­

    "AH¡­ AHHHH!" Squidit was still screaming in agony, his cries more heart-wrenching than ever, revealing the extent of his torment.

    He wished for nothing more than death right now!

    "Yun Xiao!!" Squidit stared intensely at the young man in white, and cried out bitterly, "All my kin will see my terrible fate. You may counter my Blue Necrosquid demon tribe. But for you, this is not good. This is destined to be the greatest disaster of your life! You... are doomed, haha..."

    "You''re quite something, making your death worth something," Yun Xiao shrugged.

    "You have no idea what terrifying forces you''ve offended..." Squidit sneered miserably.

    "Your n also has no idea why I have the upper hand over you," Yun Xiao said.

    Squidit was taken aback.

    Yun Xiao didn¡¯t waste any more words. The Prison Warden Sigil returned to the middle of his forehead.@@novelbin@@

    <em>Soulfire Eye!</em>

    "Uh..."

    Within the vortex-like divine gaze, Squidit gradually lost his senses.

    "Where is Yun Lingchen detained?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Squidit, trying to be clever, had kept Yun Lingchen away as leverage. He failed to realize that Yun Xiao wouldn¡¯t y along.

    He directly and brutally extracted Squidit''s soul for questioning.

    "That way, 100 miles away... Fed her a Soul Calming Pill, she''s just passed out..." Squidit said nkly.

    As Yun Xiao had expected, Squidit hadn¡¯t been too harsh on Yun Lingchen.

    This was because the current strategy of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe and Southern Divine Dragon Realm was to iste the Harmony Divine Pce, trying to prevent other factions of the Heavenly Deity Alliance from getting involved.

    "Alright, you''re of no use now." Yun Xiao stood up and closed his Soulfire Eye.

    At this moment, within the Supreme Dragon Cauldron, Squidit was nothing more than a charred mass of flesh and viscera, only managing to form a pained expression.

    "I''ve heard that a demon in the Fourth Dao Tribtion can condense a Demon Source Sword Ring, which is quite powerful, incorporating the core of their tribtion power. However, because demons, represented by the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe, are dominant in the Samsara Gxy, they''ve enacted strictws against Sword Cultivators. Anyone daring to refine a Demon Source Sword Ring faces the extermination of their entire family..." Yun Xiao spoke indifferently.

    "What, what are you nning to do?!" Squidit stammered.

    "I''m alone, without a family, so I might as well make one for fun," Yun Xiao suddenly smiled.

    "You... Ah, ahhhhhh!"

    This was the most agonizing scream from Squidit yet. His demon body, burned and charred, still contained his Demon Source, the core of a Fourth Dao Tribtion demon, which held six different kinds of cmities!

    Amid Squidit''s horrific screams, Yun Xiao liberated his soul and refined his body and Demon Source into a shimmering blue and white Sword Ring, which he then affixed directly onto the Heaven Burial Sword Soul.

    <em>CLICK! </em>As the Sword Ring snapped into ce, deathly screams and the fierce tribtion power were unleashed, endowing the Heaven Burial Sword Soul with an even more deadly might.

    Yun Xiao burst out from the Supreme Dragon Cauldron, wielding the three-foot de now adorned with the blue and white Sword Ring, lighting up the Ancestor Immortal Grotto!

    The Million Starlight Pce immediately went into an uproar. The entire ce seemed to turn over.

    "What?!" Zu Xi, Mu Xihe, and others stared dumbfounded at the blue and white Demon Source Sword Ring,pletely breathless.

    "Yun Xiao, you..." Zu Xi tried to speak, his voice hoarse, unable to finish.

    They all just pointed dumbly at the Sword Ring on Yun Xiao''s Sword Soul.

    "What? Just one Sword Ring looks lonely, doesn''t it?"

    Yun Xiao chuckled dryly, then nced towards Feng Yao, nonchntly adding, "No worries, I''ll snap 32 more on there soon."<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts</blockquote>

 Chapter 961: An Explosive Statement Across the Samsara Galaxy!

    "Thirty three Demon Source Sword Rings!"

    Refining just one Sword Ring would provoke the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe to target nine generations of one''s family, let alone 33 Sword Rings!

    The issue was that these 33 Sword Rings, centered around Squidit of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe, were aimed entirely at the new-generation talents of the Heavenly Demon Ster River!

    The Heavenly Demon Ster River was and of resentment. The birth of stronger resentment demons was akin to raising venomous gu worms. Once matured, even the death of a single one posed an immense threat, let alone wiping out an entire generation of top talents!

    So when Yun Xiao voiced his n, Zu Xi and the others were even more overwhelmed.

    Before they could react, Yun Xiao had already lifted the Sword Soul with the attached blue and white Sword Ring and charged toward those resentment demons!

    The surviving resentment demons were still chasing Feng Yao, faces twisted with ferocity.

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! </em>As the youth in white swung his sword, blue and white vortices swirled around his de. The power of the six different cmities, driven by the Demon Source, erupted violently. It was the equivalent of a demon puppet unleashing multiple signature powers of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe!

    For a moment, the resentment demons didn''t realize what was happening; they thought Squidit was attacking them."What are you doing?"

    Sensing Squidit''s killing intent, the resentment demons turned back in confusion. Then, they saw with their own eyes that Squidit had be one of Yun Xiao¡¯s Sword Rings!

    This sight was like 10,000 swords piercing their hearts!

    Even the resentment demons were momentarily stunned, their minds nk.

    But Yun Xiao paid no heed to their thoughts.

    The Prison Warden Sigil empowered the Supreme Dragon Cauldron, descending from the heavens to suppress!

    The Buddha''s Treasure Spirit flew swiftly, splitting into nine, each treading on ck and gold lotuses!

    And Yun Xiao himself, wielding his three-foot de, surrounded by his spirit and the Supreme Dragon Cauldron, raised his hand and brought the sword down!

    "So fast?" Feng Yao had intended topete with him but hadn''t expected him toe help so quickly.

    This gave her a sense of frustration, but she soon epted itpletely.

    "No matter how hard I try, I''m only a part of his talent... Hmph!" Feng Yao muttered.

    Whether this was good or bad depended entirely on her mindset.

    In any case, being able to climb from the Nine Hells to a Category 3 ne, she waspletely satisfied.

    "Be the woman behind him?" Feng Yao thought of this and felt it was a bit cliche.

    However, though she was reserved in her thoughts, her body was honest. As soon as he arrived, she slipped right behind him, ying her part by firing sneak attacks!

    <em>WHOOSH! WHOOSH! WHOOSH! </em>The Bloodfiend Jade Dragon Bow, Eight Trigrams Dragon-ying Arrows, and Southern Divine Bloodline Archery were unleashed!

    With these three Burying Heaven grade trump cards executed steadily, her attacks became even more lethal.

    She seemed to bepeting with Yun Xiao for prey, eager to see who was fiercer and who could kill more.

    However, reality left her frustrated.

    Despite putting in all her effort and never missing a shot, she still couldn''t match the speed at which Yun Xiao subdued enemies!

    He was not only killing but also refining Sword Rings at the same time!

    He didn''t even spare the resentment demons that had previously fallen to Feng Yao; their remaining resentful forms were all drawn into the Supreme Dragon Cauldron. Soon, various Sword Rings brimming with overwhelming resentment emerged¡ªone after another!

    With each new Sword Ring attached to the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, the power of his azure de increased significantly, empowered with five more different cmities!

    "If he really refines all the resentment demons into Demon Source Sword Rings, how many different types of cmities will his sword have?"

    The answer was 166 different cmities!

    Clearly, no one had ever seen such a Sword Soul before.

    The existence of such a Sword Soul was itself a challenge to all the demons of the Samsara Gxy¡ªa deration of war against them all!

    Where did he get such courage and audacity?

    Zu Xi and the others, being so close, were already breathless from what they witnessed.

    They couldn''t imagine what kind ofmotion there would be over at the Million Starlight Pce.

    In the Samsara Gxy, the potential of a Sword Immortal was indeed high. But no one dared to push it to the extreme because of what Sword Rings represented to the demons.

    Everyone was utterly stunned! Finally, they rubbed their eyes several times but saw it clearly.

    On that azure Sword Soul, there were a total of 33 Sword Rings, clear and unmistakable.

    It must be said that the originally <em>simple</em> Heaven Burial Sword Soul, after being augmented with 33 Sword Rings filled with overwhelming murderous aura, had instantly be an evil sword!

    That youth in white, as pure as a nk sheet, wielding the world''s most sinister sword, created a powerful visual impact!

    Before long, the battle came to an end¡­

    The new generation of the Heavenly Demon Ster River¡ª33 resentment demons at or above the Fifth Baptism Realm¡ªwerepletely annihted; not a single one remained!

    And that mysterious youth from the Heavenly Deity Ster River was still holding their <em>corpses</em>, disying them to all the cultivators of the Samsara Gxy, as if telling everyone this was the fate of those who provoked him.

    Yun Xiao was simple, brutal, savage, and invincible! At least on this battlefield, he crushed everything in his path.

    ¡°Damn¡­¡± Feng Yao had been busy for a long time, killing quite a few resentment demons. So, she cursed to herself, ¡°Damn scoundrel, stealing the spotlight again!¡±

    No matter how dazzling she was, in the end, the entire Samsara Gxy''s gaze would still focus on Yun Xiao.

    A total of 33 Sword Rings! With a single swing, that sword had already silenced the mouths of all the demons in the Samsara Gxy, choking the speech of every demon!

    The hundreds of millions of cultivators in the Million Starlight Pce saw this scene inplete silence.

    In the next instant, a wave of discussions, anger, and shock surged like oceanic earthquakes, triggering one tsunami after another, sweeping through the entire ce with a thunderous roar!

    The sound was so loud that people couldn¡¯t hear what was being said.

    Was it admiration or condemnation? Pride or contempt? It was impossible to tell!

    All people knew was that after the Southern Divine Dragon Realm''s five Young Dragon Lords were wiped out, the strongest new-generation resentment demons in the Heavenly Demon Ster River werepletely eliminated too!

    In the midst of this tsunami storm, the Harmony Divine Pce undoubtedly became the very center of this storm.

    ¡°Ugh.¡± Hai Qing and her sisters hunched their necks, their scalps numb, both excited and frightened, all gathered around their mother, Wan Ji.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. Don¡¯t be afraid.¡± Wan Jiforted them, though she herself was anxious, her heart racing.

    She knew Yun Xiao would continue to rampage in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto. But she didn¡¯t expect him to be so relentless, so ruthless.

    Although it was the other side who wanted to kill him, his response was just too violent!

    Wan Ji didn¡¯t know what to say at the moment. Was she saying he was wrong?

    The Southern Divine Dragon Realm had set this trap for him; as long as he dared to resist, his opponents would be endless. It wasn¡¯t like Yun Xiao could get away because of mercy.

    So she understood Yun Xiao. His reasoning was sound. Since the enemy insisted on killing him without any room for negotiation, he''d fight them to the end!

    ¡°He¡¯s still a bit too fierce¡­¡±

    Regarding the future, Wan Ji was already bewildered. She knew that the current situation was manageable against the Southern Divine Dragon Realm. After all, the Harmony Divine Pce now had two Boundless Immortals.

    "But the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe..." Wan Ji nced around and indeed saw strange looks everywhere.@@novelbin@@

    Things had really escted.

    "Uh...!" Not far away, Shi Feifei, who was sitting with her long legs crossed, suddenly blushed and murmured, "I''m going to the restroom."

    "Go where? Are you out of your mind? Stay put next to the Sea Lineage Diva." Shen Nanyin quickly pulled her back.

    "Alright, alright." Shi Feifei lowered her head, leaned closer, and said in a sticky voice, "Nanyin, he''s so fierce. A man like that is truly defying the heavens."

    "Don''t even think about it; it''s not your turn," Shen Nanyin chuckled.

    "Could it be your turn?" Shi Feifei pouted.

    "Sigh." Shen Nanyin sighed, shaking her head. "Don''t be too optimistic. The enemies he''s provoked this time aren''t ones that miracles and courage can resolve."

    "Pfft, I don''t think so. That Blue Necrosquid demon tribe? They''re just cannon fodder for our young master''s sword to break through," Shi Feifei said confidently.

    "When did he be your young master?" Shen Nanyin asked, surprised.

    "Since the moment he was born," Shi Feifei replied shyly.

    "Shameless." After scolding her, Shen Nanyin also lowered her head, falling into deep thought. She couldn''t help but recall their <em>intimate </em>moment together.

    For a moment, she also wanted to go to the restroom.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?

    "Senior Brother!"

    Gong Tianjian approached Yun Sheng.

    "Do you see now? This boy is the most reckless troublemaker. Keeping him around will only create endless enemies! Because of Yun Lingchen, our Elysian Immortal Pce might be considered enemies by the demons! You and I must immediately rify this matter with the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe and agree to assist the Southern Divine Dragon Realm in eliminating the Harmony Divine Pce; otherwise, we''ll be in big trouble!" Gong Tianjian was extremely anxious, her voice hoarse.

    Yun Sheng gave her a calm look and said, "What''s the rush? The real show is just beginning."

 Chapter 962: Until We Meet Again!

    "Cut the bullshit!" Gong Tianjian was terrified. She suddenly grabbed Yun Sheng''s hand and said anxiously:

    "What good could possiblye of this? Even if that walking cmity dominates the Ancestor Immortal Grotto and crushes all the geniuses, so what? He''s offended the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe; he''s doomed! He''s just a mere child¡ªnot even a top-tier Boundless Immortal¡ªhow can he survive? Even Si Ji is like tofupared to the Blue Necrosquid demon tribepletely defenseless! We''ve already made a misstep. We must go to the Samsara Hall immediately and plead for forgiveness! It would be best if our master intervenes!"

    Yun Sheng nced at her again. Finally, he said in a deep voice, "Junior Sister Gong, just now, that cmity you speak of saved my daughter."

    "So what! Is your daughter''s life more important than all our fellow disciples in the Elysian Immortal Pce?" Gong Tianjian shouted, disregarding Yun Sheng''s authority right in front of everyone.

    Yun Sheng frowned, his voice turning cold, "You don''t need to use the sect to pressure me. Matters of the Elysian Immortal Pce are decided by the Yun n, not you. If you''re truly anxious, you can betray the sect and join the Southern Divine Dragon Realm to ensure your safety. There''s no need to shout at me."

    "You!" Gong Tianjian felt as if cold water had been poured over her. Tears streamed down as she broke down. "Senior Brother, I was born in the Elysian Immortal Pce, cultivated in the Elysian Immortal Pce, and I will die in the Elysian Immortal Pce! You don''t need to doubt my loyalty!"

    "Then shut up and step aside," Yun Sheng said coldly.

    Hearing this, Gong Tianjian, though seething with rage, bit her lip and retreated silently.

    Soon, she received a flying talisman.¡¸<em>The ck and White Dragon Emperors have infiltrated the Million Starlight Pce, preparing to kill the two traitors Shen Nanyin and Shi Feifei. Your task is to restrain Wan Ji.</em>¡¹

    This was the content of the talisman.

    Gong Tianjian held the talisman and smiled coldly. She knew this was her chance to prove her <em>true</em> loyalty.

    ?¦É¨T¨T????????¨T¨T¦É?@@novelbin@@

    Back in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto¡­

    "Hey, wake up."

    A hand appeared on a smooth, delicate face. Slender fingers were gently patting the face.

    <em>SLAP! SLAP! SLAP!</em>

    "Mhm..." The innocent, bunny-like girl Yun Lingchen drowsily opened her eyes.

    In her blurred vision appeared a face of unparalleled beauty¡ªso handsome it could make the heavens tremble and ghosts weep.

    "Ah! Ah!" Yun Lingchen instinctively jumped in fright, letting out a scream.

    After all, the owner of this face had, just a day ago, given her a nightmare about losing her purity, making her think she''d lost her innocence in front of countless people.

    "Is that really necessary? I''m the one who saved you."

    As she instinctively tried to run, Yun Xiao grabbed her by the nape of her neck, lifting her like a real little rabbit.

    "Don''t! Please don''t!" Yun Lingchen burst into tears. As she cried, she noticed that Feng Yao, Zu Xi, Mu Xihe, and others were all there, watching her with barely suppressedughter.

    "Oh..." Yun Lingchen shuddered, finally breaking free from her fear. She remembered that this guy behind her was actually her only hope in her moment of despair!

    "You... you saved me?" Yun Lingchen turned back shakily, looking at Yun Xiao.

    Yun Xiao released her, gave her a re, and said, "Who else?"

    "Oh, right." Yun Lingchen breathed a sigh of relief, looked around, and whispered, "Those terrifying wraiths aren''t still chasing us, are they?"

    "They can''t chase us," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Why not?" Yun Lingchen asked, puzzled.

    Yun Xiao lifted the Heaven Burial Sword Soul, pointing to the 33 Sword Rings on it. "Look, they''re all here."

    Yun Lingchen''s eyes immediately widened. She froze for a full 30 seconds, like an ice sculpture for a long, long time.

    After going through the same mental process as the others, she now looked at Yun Xiao withplete awe.

    She waspletely stunned.

    The whole group fell into silence.

    "Everyone''s finally here. Shall we proceed deeper into the Ancestor Immortal Grotto?" Feng Yao asked.

    Yun Xiao was about to nod when something seemed off with Zu Xi. He stepped away briefly, and when he returned, his brow was furrowed.

    "What''s wrong?" Yun Xiao asked.

    Zu Xi looked at him, stepped forward, and said in a heavy voice, "I''ve received a secret order."

    "I thoughtmunication between inside and outside was prohibited?" Feng Yao said, surprised.

    "There are always loopholes." Yun Xiao didn''t dwell on the issue. He asked Zu Xi, "What''s it about?"

    Zu Xi sighed and said, "Apparently, the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe is reacting strongly. They''ve notified all their geniuses in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto that whoever kills you will receive the greatest reward ever."

    "This means a lot of people will be after me?" Yun Xiao said calmly.

    "The Blue Necrosquid demon tribe is quite influential, and others seeking the reward might take desperate measures. So your journey in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto will be more difficult," Zu Xi replied.

    "Tch, just kill them," Feng Yao scoffed.

    "I see." Yun Xiao nodded. After a moment of silence, he looked at Zu Xi, Yun Lingchen, and the others. Suddenly, he said, "My friends, I appreciate you joining me, but now my enemies are too many and too strong¡ªthey could endanger you. So I n to go alone. The best thing for you is to leave the Ancestor Immortal Grotto and stay safe."

    "But..." Yun Lingchen had just been dreaming of adventuring with him; she found it hard to ept.

    Yun Xiao looked at her seriously and said, "The fate of sects isn''t child''s y. I''m a wanted fugitive; you''re not. Our friendship is enough¡ªno need to risk your lives."

    Yun Lingchen bit her lip, feeling tears well up. She had just started to like this guy, and now they were parting ways.

    "Go on your way; our friendship remains," Yun Xiao said with a slight smile.

    "Alright!" Zu Xi nodded.

    In his secret orders, his elders had also advised them to leave. Otherwise, next time might be worse than just kidnapping Yun Lingchen.

    "Is there anything we can do to help?" Yun Lingchen asked softly.

    "Yes, actually¡ªa big favor," Yun Xiao replied.

    "Please, tell us," Zu Xi said.

    Yun Xiao said straightforwardly, "Behind you are the Elysian Immortal Pce, Ancestral Land, and three Heavenly Deity Alliance sects. These five sects are the backbone of the Heavenly Deity Ster River. If possible, when you return, please put in a good word for me with your elders. At the very least, give me and the Harmony Divine Pce a fair chance to face our opponents."

    "I''ll do everything I can," Zu Xi promised with a firm nod.

    "And you?" Yun Xiao asked.

    "Since we share the same surname, I''ll try harder to persuade my father and grandfather!" Yun Lingchen mumbled.

    Li Xuan, Wang Chen, and Qin Feng also cupped their hands in agreement.

    "Everyone, see you out there," Yun Xiao said.

    "See you!"

    With that, their group was about to end their brief half-day journey in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    Staying alive was crucial. The stakes were too high.

    However, before leaving, Zu Xi turned back and whispered to Yun Xiao, "In my father''s secret message, he had a suggestion for you."

    "Empyrean Emperor Chen?" Yun Xiao paused. "Please, go ahead."

    "He suggested that, given the current situation in the Ancestor Immortal Grotto, you can kill members of the Blue Necrosquid demon tribe and befriend the Fushen imperial family. As for the disciples from other Ster Rivers, handle them as you see fit. But if you encounter the Divine Subduer Ster River and Archdevil Ster River¡ªthe two biggest yers in the Samsara Gxy¡ªavoid offending them for now. Especially the Divine Subduer Ster River, they can be won over," Zu Xi said.

    "I understand," Yun Xiao nodded.

    Regarding the grand scheme within the Samsara Gxy, that brief message essentially summed it up.

    Yun Xiao would ept the advice from Zu Xincheng.

    "Good luck."

    After bidding farewell once more, Zu Xi, the reluctant Yun Lingchen, and the others disappeared together.

    Who knew when they would meet again?

    In this ink-painting-like world, only Yun Xiao and Feng Yao remained.

    "Can''t bear to part with the little white rabbit?" Feng Yao teased.

    Yun Xiao didn''t deny it but suddenly gave a helpless smile.

    "Why the long face?" Feng Yao noticed his mood and asked, somewhat puzzled.

    Dressed in flowing white, Yun Xiao gazed at the ethereal depths of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto and murmured, "Life is but a dream; the journey is arduous. I''m fortunate to have you by my side."

    "Tch, getting sentimental out of nowhere?" Feng Yao remarked.

    "May I borrow your lovely shoulder?"

    As he spoke, Yun Xiao gently leaned against her. He said shoulder, but due to the height difference, he could only lean on¡­ Well, it was quite stable, with built-in cushioning and support.

    "You scoundrel!" Feng Yao was about to scold him, but seeing the emptiness in his eyes, she couldn''t help but feel a pang of heartache.

    She couldn''t resist embracing him, gently stroking his back, and softly said, "There, there. Don''t be gloomy. I''ll always be here for you."

    "Mhm." Yun Xiao leaned against her like that, his eyes distant as he gazed into the depths of the Ancestor Immortal Grotto.

    In his robes, a small ck beast poked its head out, silently looking toward the future.

    All of them remained silent.

    <strong>***</strong>

    <strong>AUTHOR HIATUS ANNOUNCEMENT</strong>

    It''s been a while since I''ve had a chat with everyone, and today I feelpelled to share some thoughts. Over the past year and a half since starting Immortal of the Ages, I overestimated my capabilities. I thought a temporary burst of good form couldst indefinitely. So, without finishing Beastmaster of the Ages, I rashly began itspanion piece, Immortal of the Ages. This decision led me into a prolonged period of high pressure, fatigue, and mental strain.

    In these nearly 500 days, aside from a few bouts of illness, I haven''t had a moment to catch my breath.

    What you might not realize is that writing two chapters for two different books is possibly harder than writing five chapters for one. It requires splitting focus and energy in different directions. Trying to make both books excellent exceeded my expectations in difficulty. I had never attempted to write two books simultaneously before, and this experience has truly taken a toll on me.

    Because of this, over the past 500 days, I''ve had to pour everything I have into nurturing both stories, afraid of neglecting either. This required me to expend even more energy, mental effort, and creativity. Every day was tense, without a single moment of rxation.

    I won''t borate on how tough it''s been because this situation is entirely of my own making. In theter arcs of Beastmaster of the Ages, I had a strong urge to start a new project. Writers are like that sometimes¡ªwhen an idea excites you, it''s hard to hold back, which led to this significant challenge.

    A book is like a life; once it''s brought into the world, you have to take responsibility for it. That''s why I feltpelled to keep going. Many things in life are like this; sometimes a poorly made decision can have longsting consequences. I admit my mistake¡ªI underestimated the difficulty of juggling two projects. Even pushing myself to the limit, it felt like a lot of effort with little reward.

    This situation caused fluctuations in both books, and the updates for Beastmaster of the Ages have decreased. I feel deeply sorry for the readers who have always supported me. This shouldn''t have happened. It was due to my intense creative desire and a decision that, while not wrong, was ill-timed. Here, I sincerely apologize to all of you. Although to err is human, this was a significant oversight on my part.

    Over the past 500-plus days since the birth of Immortal of the Ages, we''ve weathered many storms together. I''ve introduced you to a new world of xianxia¡ªapletely different protagonist, story, and characters¡ªbringing you some unique surprises.

    But now, whether due to personal health reasons (my health has been very poor since contracting COVID; I won''t go into details, but even though I''m only 32, I feel quite old), or out of responsibility to my readers and my craft, I''ve decided to grit my teeth and make a decision.

    That is¡ª

    To pause updates on Immortal of the Ages and focus all my efforts onpleting Beastmaster of the Ages. After that, I''ll continue our Xianxia journey here.

    The benefit of this is that both books can continue with high quality, and I can handle them more easily and focus more, making them both better¡ªespecially Beastmaster of the Ages; it can''t be sacrificed any longer!

    I''ve designed an explosivete-stage storyline. The entire worldview is, I believe, quite advanced in online literature. If I continue writing both books simultaneously, it will be very difficult for me to do justice to the grand plots about Stealing Heaven, the Ninth and Tenth Eggs of the Primordial Chaos Behemoth, and the protagonist''s ultimate fate. That would be truly regrettable and irresponsible. That''s why I''ve made this tough decision.

    After a transitional period of one or two days, the update frequency for Beastmaster of the Ages will increase, and everyone should be able to rekindle the passion of the earlier and middle stages. The early arcs were the meyellow Continent, the middle were the Sr Emperor Continent... and now, it''s time to give Li Tianming a magnificentter arc.

    Once Beastmaster of the Ages concludes, I''ll return to this Xianxia creation, and we can pick up speed and quality here as well.

    As facts have proven, trying to focus on two things at once leads to half the results with twice the effort.

    I hope this life lesson can serve as a reminder for all of you. Everyone has limits to their abilities and energy. Sometimes, making peace with yourself might lead to a better path.

    Alright, Yun Xiao''s journey, along with Feng Yao''s, will take a break here.

    When Li Tianming forges his divine body spanning hundreds of billions of light-years, the Creator Immortal of the Immortal of the Ages will break through the myriad heavens once again!<blockquote>

    JustLivingJL''s Thoughts

    Don''t worry. I''ll keep things short after that long author hiatus message. I really do hope ITA gets picked back up again. The author might have dropped the ball at times, but I appreciate that he at least tried to subvert tropes and expectations. It also makes sense now given he was juggling two novels at once because it was obvious some of these plot threads needed more time in the oven. End of the day, though, it was still a fun project for me, and I enjoyed working on it.

    As for final words from me, I hope my trantions brought you a brief respite from the stresses of everyday life. If you enjoyed my work and want to follow me, my next novel will be My Journey to Immortality Begins With Hunting. Hope to see you there. Love you guys.

    -JL</blockquote>

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!